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Striking Back #4
Alex
Ninety- two days. Thirteen weeks. That’s how long it’s been since I lost my love, my best friend. It’s been everything I can do to drag myself out of bed and get back to work, but I know Cooper would want me to move on. I think he’d even be happy if he knew who I want to move on with. The target of my affection, though, may not be so thrilled about my choice.
He’s straight. Or he thinks he is.
A womanizer of the worst kind with a face and body that keeps a steady stream of willing women at his door, he seems happy to work his way through the entire female population. But there’s no mistaking the way he looks at me when he thinks I’m not paying attention.
One way or another, I’ll show him what he really wants.
This is book four of The Striking Back Series, but can also be read as a standalone novel.
Intended for 18 years and older. Contains sexual content, including sex between two men.
He’s straight. Or he thinks he is.
A womanizer of the worst kind with a face and body that keeps a steady stream of willing women at his door, he seems happy to work his way through the entire female population. But there’s no mistaking the way he looks at me when he thinks I’m not paying attention.
One way or another, I’ll show him what he really wants.
This is book four of The Striking Back Series, but can also be read as a standalone novel.
Intended for 18 years and older. Contains sexual content, including sex between two men.
145 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 26, 2016
171 people are currently reading
467 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Shade
42 books1,668 followersS.M. Shade writes spicy romantic comedies and steamy contemporary romances with relatable characters. Whether it's a good laugh or a good cry, she likes to grab you by your emotions and make you feel.
An unashamed Croc enthusiast and poetry nerd, she can usually be found listening to Indie Rock on repeat and watching birds.
An unashamed Croc enthusiast and poetry nerd, she can usually be found listening to Indie Rock on repeat and watching birds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
March 17, 2017
DNF at 42%
Why does this book have such high ratings?? What the heck?!?
I can suspend disbelief when reading books, I really can (hello, I read mpreg..), but not in this one..
Alex is living with his best friend Ian after Alex’s boyfriend died. I get that that is a really big thing and that Alex would be crushed. But him and the boyfriend were together for 3 months, but Alex keeps thinking about him as if they’ve spent 20 years together….
Then Alex gets a call.
“Typical worthless drunk keeps beating his seventeen year old son. The state just keeps giving him back. I know you don’t normally take kids without a guardian, but…”
“We don’t take kids without a guardian because it’s kidnapping.”
“I realize that. I also know you have taken underage victims and hidden them with their distant relatives. This boy…he has no one.”
Alex takes in 17 year old Kyle, forms a bond with him immediately and everyone seems happy happy happy. Of course Kyle cannot go to school because he has to lie low, so he is working on getting his GED once he turns 18.
But then someone knows someone who knows someone at an art college.
“No loans, son. Like I said, the school is owned by a friend, and when I showed him your work, he offered you a full scholarship. Four years. If this is something you’re interested in pursuing.”
Sure! People hand out full scholarships when shown one drawing all the time…..
And of course Kyle can start college without his GED and without entering his real name!
“But…won’t the cops find me if I enroll?”
“No, my friend will enroll you under a different last name until you turn eighteen, then correct it. I’ve assured him you’ll have no problem getting your GED then as well. We can straighten it all out later, but in the meantime, you can become a student.”
I’m pretty sure that’s ILLEGAL. And no college would ever do this.
But of course this all works out great.
Then Alex finds out that his best friend Ian has cancer. How he found out? Well, he got an automated call from the hospital telling him about his appointment and the caller ID said Marion Oncology. Pretty specific huh?
And I’m pretty sure a hospital is not allowed to send automated messages to someone’s home phone, since the tape has no idea who will answer the phone!!
I’m sooooo done with this stupid book.
Why does this book have such high ratings?? What the heck?!?
I can suspend disbelief when reading books, I really can (hello, I read mpreg..), but not in this one..
Alex is living with his best friend Ian after Alex’s boyfriend died. I get that that is a really big thing and that Alex would be crushed. But him and the boyfriend were together for 3 months, but Alex keeps thinking about him as if they’ve spent 20 years together….
Then Alex gets a call.
“Typical worthless drunk keeps beating his seventeen year old son. The state just keeps giving him back. I know you don’t normally take kids without a guardian, but…”
“We don’t take kids without a guardian because it’s kidnapping.”
“I realize that. I also know you have taken underage victims and hidden them with their distant relatives. This boy…he has no one.”
Alex takes in 17 year old Kyle, forms a bond with him immediately and everyone seems happy happy happy. Of course Kyle cannot go to school because he has to lie low, so he is working on getting his GED once he turns 18.
But then someone knows someone who knows someone at an art college.
“No loans, son. Like I said, the school is owned by a friend, and when I showed him your work, he offered you a full scholarship. Four years. If this is something you’re interested in pursuing.”
Sure! People hand out full scholarships when shown one drawing all the time…..
And of course Kyle can start college without his GED and without entering his real name!
“But…won’t the cops find me if I enroll?”
“No, my friend will enroll you under a different last name until you turn eighteen, then correct it. I’ve assured him you’ll have no problem getting your GED then as well. We can straighten it all out later, but in the meantime, you can become a student.”
I’m pretty sure that’s ILLEGAL. And no college would ever do this.
But of course this all works out great.
Then Alex finds out that his best friend Ian has cancer. How he found out? Well, he got an automated call from the hospital telling him about his appointment and the caller ID said Marion Oncology. Pretty specific huh?
And I’m pretty sure a hospital is not allowed to send automated messages to someone’s home phone, since the tape has no idea who will answer the phone!!
I’m sooooo done with this stupid book.
February 26, 2016
I’m going to blame the alcohol for this tomorrow.”
I love this series and highly recommend you read it (it follows MMA fighting brothers who run a shelter for domestic violence victims) but this novel can very easily be read as a standalone if you wish. S.M. Shade has quickly become an author who I can’t wait to read. The moment she puts out a book I need it desperately. I am a HUGE fan of both fighter books and m/m books so this one was just extra good for me!
“I’m not attracted to men!” I shout, my frustration building. “Just you.” Damn it. I didn’t mean to say that.
This book follows the story of Alex who just lost his boyfriend who he cared deeply for. Following the death Alex moved in with his best friend, straight Ian. This was not insta love but a deep friendship that developed into more and that for me made the story so much more dynamic. The joking and back and forth fun between the two characters followed by the struggles they each have to overcome once they open themselves up to the idea that they belong together made for a interesting and fulfilling story! Plus HELLO M/M sexy time! Enough said!
“I’m not gay!” His eyes burn into mine as he shouts, “Well, you suck a lot of cock for a straight man!”
Can I just tell you that is my FAVORITE quote in a m/m romance where one of the characters is straight EVER! I mean EVER!
Alex blew me away and exceeded my expectations. There is just something to be said for someone who can write a story showing that love is love and no matter what you think you want when feelings develop and you follow that instinct you will be better off and happier. No matter if you have been following the series or you picked this up as a m/m standalone I am confident you are going to fall in love with these two characters and their beautiful thought tough at times love story.
~miranda
I love this series and highly recommend you read it (it follows MMA fighting brothers who run a shelter for domestic violence victims) but this novel can very easily be read as a standalone if you wish. S.M. Shade has quickly become an author who I can’t wait to read. The moment she puts out a book I need it desperately. I am a HUGE fan of both fighter books and m/m books so this one was just extra good for me!
“I’m not attracted to men!” I shout, my frustration building. “Just you.” Damn it. I didn’t mean to say that.
This book follows the story of Alex who just lost his boyfriend who he cared deeply for. Following the death Alex moved in with his best friend, straight Ian. This was not insta love but a deep friendship that developed into more and that for me made the story so much more dynamic. The joking and back and forth fun between the two characters followed by the struggles they each have to overcome once they open themselves up to the idea that they belong together made for a interesting and fulfilling story! Plus HELLO M/M sexy time! Enough said!
“I’m not gay!” His eyes burn into mine as he shouts, “Well, you suck a lot of cock for a straight man!”
Can I just tell you that is my FAVORITE quote in a m/m romance where one of the characters is straight EVER! I mean EVER!
Alex blew me away and exceeded my expectations. There is just something to be said for someone who can write a story showing that love is love and no matter what you think you want when feelings develop and you follow that instinct you will be better off and happier. No matter if you have been following the series or you picked this up as a m/m standalone I am confident you are going to fall in love with these two characters and their beautiful thought tough at times love story.
~miranda
July 26, 2024
To kolejna książka, którą czytałam na samym początku mojej przygody z MM. Szczerze, to nawet nie mam do niej porządnego komentarza, tylko kilka luźnych myśli pisanych dla siebie. Zatem wrzucam je jako spoiler, bo zdaje się, że na to zasługują 😉
June 9, 2016
Got this for free through the Amazon deal running right now. Some wouldn't complain about a free book but I will, because at 10% finished, I found myself not wanting to continue reading this book.
In some ways, this is rather perplexing. The writing is nice enough, well above average for this genre, I would say. The dialogue is fine. The descriptions are fine. Everything is fine, and, well, soulless.
I don't like Alex or dislike him. I don't like Ian or dislike him. I don't like anyone, or dislike them. And that's a pity, because I should. I should adore them, want more of them.
I don't. In fact, I really don't care. I'm just irritated.
Most of this is the casual sexism thrown sprinkled through. The first time I read the phrase "my brother's women," I was perplexed. What business does a phrase like that have in any book published past 1960? But it didn't stop there. From referring to a certain woman as "nipples" to the way Alex's brother has to scold his wife, to the blythe cries of "girl talk!" something about this book got under my skin and irritated the hell out of me. Yes, we get that this is an MM book, and we want to cheer for two men to get together. Fine. But that doesn't mean they do so because all the women are "lesser." Unfortunately, that was the vibe this book gave me.
When I reached the phrase "I don't eat where I shit" referring to not picking up women where one works, I stopped reading in disgust. I cannot cheer for any MC who uses such phrasing to refer to women. I will not. This is a book written primarily for straight, female audiences. That it can't seem to mention a women without also bringing up how annoying they are is a great pity.
This writer can write perfectly fine, but the words that they have chosen to use are in poor taste. I hope they will see this and revise their future work accordingly; clearly they have a talent for pen on page. It would go better with respect for the female gender.
In some ways, this is rather perplexing. The writing is nice enough, well above average for this genre, I would say. The dialogue is fine. The descriptions are fine. Everything is fine, and, well, soulless.
I don't like Alex or dislike him. I don't like Ian or dislike him. I don't like anyone, or dislike them. And that's a pity, because I should. I should adore them, want more of them.
I don't. In fact, I really don't care. I'm just irritated.
Most of this is the casual sexism thrown sprinkled through. The first time I read the phrase "my brother's women," I was perplexed. What business does a phrase like that have in any book published past 1960? But it didn't stop there. From referring to a certain woman as "nipples" to the way Alex's brother has to scold his wife, to the blythe cries of "girl talk!" something about this book got under my skin and irritated the hell out of me. Yes, we get that this is an MM book, and we want to cheer for two men to get together. Fine. But that doesn't mean they do so because all the women are "lesser." Unfortunately, that was the vibe this book gave me.
When I reached the phrase "I don't eat where I shit" referring to not picking up women where one works, I stopped reading in disgust. I cannot cheer for any MC who uses such phrasing to refer to women. I will not. This is a book written primarily for straight, female audiences. That it can't seem to mention a women without also bringing up how annoying they are is a great pity.
This writer can write perfectly fine, but the words that they have chosen to use are in poor taste. I hope they will see this and revise their future work accordingly; clearly they have a talent for pen on page. It would go better with respect for the female gender.
June 19, 2016
DNF at 52%. So, maybe it's not fair to rate at this point. I don't care. It's cliche ridden and rather mysoginistic. Written much the way that drove me away from MF books. Alex is gay and Ian is "straight". They haven't really done anything, just starting to talk about Ian's feeling towards Alex. Ian's been a complete manwhore, rarely with women twice. Alex then says: “I’m not going to act like a jealous housewife if you bring a chick home, man. Might want to watch though,” he says with a smirk.
I'm outta here.
I'm outta here.
February 9, 2023
* Gfy story
* TW : death, domestic violence, homophobia, cheating
This is a fast, very fast paced story and the only M/M story in the series.
Even though the plot didn't captivate me as much and you really have to work to tie up the loose ends with many events, I was interested in the MC's story - Alex, an MMA fighter, someone who helps with and co-owns a domestic violence shelter. He's gay, his boyfriend of 3 months died and when grieving, he went to live with their very good friend Ian, who's an accountant, straight, a fuckboy, lives alone.
Ian gets cancer and the one person by his side through all of it is none other than Alex , who's at this point become a very good friend and a long-term roommate.
Things get heated and they start fooling around and decide to give it a go , be a couple and be monogamous. It's a new world for Ian, he can't really accept the fact that he could possibly be gay, because to him that means he's "a sissy", so in his first existential crisis he goes out and cheats on Alex .
I didn't expect for Ian's character to tank so low when Alex comes back from a work trip and Ian all of a sudden shows publicly he has a boyfriend and he's jealous of Alex's client, because that client was gay. What?
Alex was open enough to offer a solution to Ian when they were deciding on ground rules , he was prepared to have an open relationship with women involved, the only condition would be for them to be together in the same room when that happens.
So, again, Ian's an ass, many like him out there, I just didn't wanna read about that type of guy as the MC's love interest.
It was ridiculous and Ian felt like a confused 13-year old boy. As crazy as the story was, I began to hope Alex would find his person elsewhere, but no such luck, Ian and Alex stayed together and got married.
Whatever.
December 9, 2016
Zdecydowanie za krótka! Ja chcę więcej....
June 12, 2016
I could write you a novel about how terrible this novel is, and it would be a better novel than the novel it is about. I did read the whole thing, balancing on the line between "Train Wreck" and "Guilty Pleasure"--apparently my guilty pleasure is reading really terrible books.
So. This is a story about a family of brothers that run a domestic violence shelter. I suppose that could happen. My mind got really emotional about the women who might go their seeking succor from men (perhaps having a fear of them), only to find that it is run almost entirely by men, but okay. I can accept this premise. Three of the brothers are happily coupled off--I assume this happened in books 1-3 of the series, and their wives seem a bit flat and cliche, but at least they are all positive characters, well treated, and well loved by the men around them.
But the roommate of our MC is a womanizer. They even say that in the book. And all these men who run this domestic violence shelter see no problem with this. Neither the gay brother nor the womanizer have any problem seeing the women as anything other than a convenient slut. We know intimately that the gay brother thinks this because we read from his perspective. But these are all supposed to be close friends, and most of these men and all of these women RUN A SHELTER FOR DOMESTIC ABUSE, how come no one calls out this guy for using and discarding women? Sure, free sex for all means free sex for women, too, but it also means respecting them, not just shagging them, insulting them for being orange from too much tanning bed (or referring to them by their nipples), and then forgetting all about them. That did not sit well with me.
The Unresolved Sexual Tension was hot, I guess, but our dear Gay Brother really pushed his gay-for-you love interest way too fast. I mean, they sat around and discussed how anal stuff might very well be off the table forever, and Gay Brother was all "hey, that's cool, no worries, I'm totally okay with that; me never getting to top is utterly fine, and within the parameters of a normal healthy gay relationship, too." And then a month later he plays a "I'll stop if you tell me to" card and does it anyway. Way to respect your guy, asshat. So that blows up on him. But then they get back together, and this time Gay Brother listens respectfully to his man and doesn't push anything until he's ready....
OH WAIT NO, hahahahahaha, no he doesn't. Gay Brother pushes again. It's not rape, it's not non-con, it's maybe not even dub-con, but is some fucking non-respect. Sure it works out in the end; GFY-guy is suddenly and happily introduced to the pleasures of gay sex, and they live happily ever after and adopt a dog and 2.5 kids, but what the fuck. I hope I live in a better world than the one this book takes place in.
So. This is a story about a family of brothers that run a domestic violence shelter. I suppose that could happen. My mind got really emotional about the women who might go their seeking succor from men (perhaps having a fear of them), only to find that it is run almost entirely by men, but okay. I can accept this premise. Three of the brothers are happily coupled off--I assume this happened in books 1-3 of the series, and their wives seem a bit flat and cliche, but at least they are all positive characters, well treated, and well loved by the men around them.
But the roommate of our MC is a womanizer. They even say that in the book. And all these men who run this domestic violence shelter see no problem with this. Neither the gay brother nor the womanizer have any problem seeing the women as anything other than a convenient slut. We know intimately that the gay brother thinks this because we read from his perspective. But these are all supposed to be close friends, and most of these men and all of these women RUN A SHELTER FOR DOMESTIC ABUSE, how come no one calls out this guy for using and discarding women? Sure, free sex for all means free sex for women, too, but it also means respecting them, not just shagging them, insulting them for being orange from too much tanning bed (or referring to them by their nipples), and then forgetting all about them. That did not sit well with me.
The Unresolved Sexual Tension was hot, I guess, but our dear Gay Brother really pushed his gay-for-you love interest way too fast. I mean, they sat around and discussed how anal stuff might very well be off the table forever, and Gay Brother was all "hey, that's cool, no worries, I'm totally okay with that; me never getting to top is utterly fine, and within the parameters of a normal healthy gay relationship, too." And then a month later he plays a "I'll stop if you tell me to" card and does it anyway. Way to respect your guy, asshat. So that blows up on him. But then they get back together, and this time Gay Brother listens respectfully to his man and doesn't push anything until he's ready....
OH WAIT NO, hahahahahaha, no he doesn't. Gay Brother pushes again. It's not rape, it's not non-con, it's maybe not even dub-con, but is some fucking non-respect. Sure it works out in the end; GFY-guy is suddenly and happily introduced to the pleasures of gay sex, and they live happily ever after and adopt a dog and 2.5 kids, but what the fuck. I hope I live in a better world than the one this book takes place in.
September 1, 2016
Oh wow, I absolutely loved this book.
It's the 4th in the Striking Back series and although it could probably be read as a standalone, I highly recommend you read the first 3 books (in order) first. I say this because one of the things I've really loved about this book, is the way the author has invested time in creating such a great family bond (between the Reed brothers) that threads it's way through all the books in this series.
Alex's story picks up where we left off in book #3 and my heart was pounding away, vibrating against the lump lodged in my throat.
Alex is a great character and you're bound to love him as much as I did.
Of course we get to see our favourites from the previous three books too and we get to know Ian a bit better too.
I don't want to give too much away but I will tell you that you'll want to slap some sense into at least one character and just when you think love can triumph, you'll be broken hearted again.
I highly recommend this book (and series)!
It's the 4th in the Striking Back series and although it could probably be read as a standalone, I highly recommend you read the first 3 books (in order) first. I say this because one of the things I've really loved about this book, is the way the author has invested time in creating such a great family bond (between the Reed brothers) that threads it's way through all the books in this series.
Alex's story picks up where we left off in book #3 and my heart was pounding away, vibrating against the lump lodged in my throat.
Alex is a great character and you're bound to love him as much as I did.
Of course we get to see our favourites from the previous three books too and we get to know Ian a bit better too.
I don't want to give too much away but I will tell you that you'll want to slap some sense into at least one character and just when you think love can triumph, you'll be broken hearted again.
I highly recommend this book (and series)!
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Blurb:
Ninety- two days. Thirteen weeks. That’s how long it’s been since I lost my love, my best friend. It’s been everything I can do to drag myself out of bed and get back to work, but I know Cooper would want me to move on. I think he’d even be happy if he knew who I want to move on with. The target of my affection, though, may not be so thrilled about my choice.
He’s straight. Or he thinks he is.
A womanizer of the worst kind with a face and body that keeps a steady stream of willing women at his door, he seems happy to work his way through the entire female population. But there’s no mistaking the way he looks at me when he thinks I’m not paying attention.
One way or another, I’ll show him what he really wants.
This is book four of The Striking Back Series, but can also be read as a standalone novel.
Blurb:
Ninety- two days. Thirteen weeks. That’s how long it’s been since I lost my love, my best friend. It’s been everything I can do to drag myself out of bed and get back to work, but I know Cooper would want me to move on. I think he’d even be happy if he knew who I want to move on with. The target of my affection, though, may not be so thrilled about my choice.
He’s straight. Or he thinks he is.
A womanizer of the worst kind with a face and body that keeps a steady stream of willing women at his door, he seems happy to work his way through the entire female population. But there’s no mistaking the way he looks at me when he thinks I’m not paying attention.
One way or another, I’ll show him what he really wants.
This is book four of The Striking Back Series, but can also be read as a standalone novel.
July 15, 2021
"Alex" to książka, której absolutnie nie kupiłam. Była dla mnie jednym wielkim zbiorem nielogiczności. Na początku poznajemy Alexa, geja który stracił w wypadku chłopaka i bardzo z tego powodu cierpi. Mieszka ze swoim przyjacielem Ianem, który żadnej lasce nie przepuści i raczej dwa razy nie wchodzi do tej samej rzeki, a przynajmniej rzadko. I nagle, ni z gruchy ni pietruchy, Alex dochodzi do wniosku, że jest zakochany w Ianie, a ten wcale nie jest stricte hetero. Potem wszystko leci jak z górki, Ian co prawda ma pewne obiekcje, broni tyłka jak Kmicic Częstochowy, ale koniec końców... Pomiędzy tym mamy ciężką chorobę, patologię rodzinną, zdradę i obijanie facjat homofobom (jedyna rzecz, która mi się spodobała). A potem żyli długo i szczęśliwe w monogamii, dodając do rodziny dorosłego syna i... koniec bajki.
Jedyne co mogę powiedzieć to: dziękuję, że takie to było krótkie!
Jedyne co mogę powiedzieć to: dziękuję, że takie to było krótkie!
December 22, 2016
I wanted to love this so badly. I just... didn't.
There were several side trips around the main plot. I think those side trips were supposed to bring the characters together, but all they did was distract from the main story.
I think I would have liked it better if they were brought together more slowly, like if we saw more internal thoughts and feelings developing. As it was, the kind of sudden jolt of how things progressed seemed unnatural and forced.
And by forced, I mean actually forced. Alex pushed his partner to do things way before he was ready. It went beyond pushing limits and comfort zones. It made me feel uncomfortable for his partner. Alex should have not at all been surprised that since he pushed his partner too far, he reacted the way he did. I am disappointed in how this played out.
I'm not usually a fan of this type of romance. It has to be finessed just right to be believable. With some care and tweaking, this could have been perfect to slow down the suddenness of it and make it less awkward.
There were several side trips around the main plot. I think those side trips were supposed to bring the characters together, but all they did was distract from the main story.
I think I would have liked it better if they were brought together more slowly, like if we saw more internal thoughts and feelings developing. As it was, the kind of sudden jolt of how things progressed seemed unnatural and forced.
And by forced, I mean actually forced. Alex pushed his partner to do things way before he was ready. It went beyond pushing limits and comfort zones. It made me feel uncomfortable for his partner. Alex should have not at all been surprised that since he pushed his partner too far, he reacted the way he did. I am disappointed in how this played out.
I'm not usually a fan of this type of romance. It has to be finessed just right to be believable. With some care and tweaking, this could have been perfect to slow down the suddenness of it and make it less awkward.
September 10, 2022
A fitting end
So, truth? I'm not really a huge fan of M/M romances. But- when a favorite author writes one- you read it! 😉
All series long, I've "watched" Ian be a man-whore, and being fine with the flings with willing women. To see how this author changes his direction was great.
Poor Alex!! His character has so much to handle, and I was terribly empathetic to his struggle. The steamy chemistry between these two is addictive. I enjoyed reading the support they extend to each other.
When these two handle Ian's health scare, I think it’s going to be okay. And then, it's not!
Like the creative author she is, the storyline twists and flips to bring me along to the HEA I wanted. For all of them.
This series is absolutely addictive and I recommend reading this series in order, consecutively. As always with this author, I appreciate her skills, care and creativity with these characters.
It's a great read, that I recommend.
So, truth? I'm not really a huge fan of M/M romances. But- when a favorite author writes one- you read it! 😉
All series long, I've "watched" Ian be a man-whore, and being fine with the flings with willing women. To see how this author changes his direction was great.
Poor Alex!! His character has so much to handle, and I was terribly empathetic to his struggle. The steamy chemistry between these two is addictive. I enjoyed reading the support they extend to each other.
When these two handle Ian's health scare, I think it’s going to be okay. And then, it's not!
Like the creative author she is, the storyline twists and flips to bring me along to the HEA I wanted. For all of them.
This series is absolutely addictive and I recommend reading this series in order, consecutively. As always with this author, I appreciate her skills, care and creativity with these characters.
It's a great read, that I recommend.
February 11, 2016
S.M. Shade definitely saved the best for last! For those who've read the other 3 books on the series, this picks up 8 months after the end of PARKER.
After the car accident that claimed Cooper's life, Alex had a choice. Either stay with one of his brothers and be smothered to death or move in with Ian and help him rehab the house he bought a few months ago. And for the most part, things have worked out pretty great. Ian gave him just enough room to grieve without letting him sink into depression. It didn't hurt that he kept Alex entertained with his manwhore ways, either. (Nothing like listening to a woman do a foghorn impression while climaxing, lol) But after 8 months of living together, Alex admitted to himself that he has a problem. He's insanely attracted to Ian, and Ian is straight.
Ian is mostly a loner. Raised in a group home, he doesn't have any family except for the people he's claimed as such. A self proclaimed manwhore, he's never had a relationship that lasted longer than a night. So when his friends get into an accident, he decides he could use the company & invites Alex to come stay with him. For the last 8 months he's started to see the old Alex come back and he couldn't be happier. But when he finds out something that flips his world on its axis, he's forced to allow Alex to take care of him for a change. Then comes the biggest shocker of all... he starting to develop feelings for Alex and he doesn't know what to do about it.
I have to admit, I had a feeling that I would like this book, but it exceeded my expectations by far. If you've read the others in this series, you know that S.M. Shade covers some pretty delicate subjects, but this one takes it a step further. In all, I truly enjoyed this book and this series has made it onto my re-read shelf.
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha
After the car accident that claimed Cooper's life, Alex had a choice. Either stay with one of his brothers and be smothered to death or move in with Ian and help him rehab the house he bought a few months ago. And for the most part, things have worked out pretty great. Ian gave him just enough room to grieve without letting him sink into depression. It didn't hurt that he kept Alex entertained with his manwhore ways, either. (Nothing like listening to a woman do a foghorn impression while climaxing, lol) But after 8 months of living together, Alex admitted to himself that he has a problem. He's insanely attracted to Ian, and Ian is straight.
Ian is mostly a loner. Raised in a group home, he doesn't have any family except for the people he's claimed as such. A self proclaimed manwhore, he's never had a relationship that lasted longer than a night. So when his friends get into an accident, he decides he could use the company & invites Alex to come stay with him. For the last 8 months he's started to see the old Alex come back and he couldn't be happier. But when he finds out something that flips his world on its axis, he's forced to allow Alex to take care of him for a change. Then comes the biggest shocker of all... he starting to develop feelings for Alex and he doesn't know what to do about it.
I have to admit, I had a feeling that I would like this book, but it exceeded my expectations by far. If you've read the others in this series, you know that S.M. Shade covers some pretty delicate subjects, but this one takes it a step further. In all, I truly enjoyed this book and this series has made it onto my re-read shelf.
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon an Alpha
March 3, 2016
Having read the previous books in this series and enjoyed them I was really intrigued with this M/M offering from S M Shade. I love this genre immensely and I have to say that this author’s offering was well received. A 4 star read for me, it didn’t light me on fire but it was indeed a good read. If you haven’t read the first three it’s no problem as this can be quite easily read as a standalone but I would definitely recommend reading them, gives you a better insight into the characters and their relationships with one another.
Alex, through dire circumstances comes to live with his friend Ian, an absolute slut of a man who finds no problem bedding his latest conquests for all to hear. There’s a slow simmer going on with both Alex and Ian, more so for Alex initially which I thoroughly enjoyed watching unravel. There’s a few serious subject matters going on in this book and while they appear under the surface to begin with, these are pushed to the fore before long. Dealt with sympathetically, I think S M Shade got those parts right.
I loved the easy relationship the pair had and I fell in love with both these characters. Saying that it just felt like maybe there was something missing. It lacked that special something that would have made this an exceptional read and I’m not entirely sure what that was. The writing style is good and the story flowed from beginning to end but it missed a spark for me.
I’d recommend this though; it really is a good book to get stuck into. It’s got the emotion, the intimacy, compassion, humour…..all those things that make a good book. If you’ve not read this author before I’d suggest taking a look and giving her a go, you won’t regret it.
Alex, through dire circumstances comes to live with his friend Ian, an absolute slut of a man who finds no problem bedding his latest conquests for all to hear. There’s a slow simmer going on with both Alex and Ian, more so for Alex initially which I thoroughly enjoyed watching unravel. There’s a few serious subject matters going on in this book and while they appear under the surface to begin with, these are pushed to the fore before long. Dealt with sympathetically, I think S M Shade got those parts right.
I loved the easy relationship the pair had and I fell in love with both these characters. Saying that it just felt like maybe there was something missing. It lacked that special something that would have made this an exceptional read and I’m not entirely sure what that was. The writing style is good and the story flowed from beginning to end but it missed a spark for me.
I’d recommend this though; it really is a good book to get stuck into. It’s got the emotion, the intimacy, compassion, humour…..all those things that make a good book. If you’ve not read this author before I’d suggest taking a look and giving her a go, you won’t regret it.
June 27, 2016
I'll admit this book had it's moments. The beginning grabbed my attention, especially isnce i had no idea what it as going to be about. Ian seemed charming in a rougish sort of way at first, and Alex was sympathetic and grieving without being whiny.
Very early on I started to get hints of some strange attitudes. Ms. Den and the neighbor Arthur were barely over sixty, but Ms. Den was described as a sweet old granny and Arthur couldn't do any fixing up at his place presumably because of his age.
The way the women were described was equally unsettling. One MCs mother had been shot by his father, the other one's had died tragically, too, after being whisked away by her husband. The wives of Alex's brothers cooked and did some casual match making and Ev couldn't be told her best friend had cancer because she was preagnant and had elevated blood pressure.
Then we got to the bisexual part. Alex -a very much relationship kinda guy- said he'd be okay with Ian fucking women because he's not gay. Umm. What? And when Ian does cheat, pretty spectacularly, it's referred to as sort of cheating. Because, you know, Ian isn't gay. SMH.
The entire cheating incident was dealt with in an entirely unsatisfying way as a whole, because it wasn't even aknowldged as real cheating. Plys, Ian nevere seemed to feel guilty. He was upset over losing Alex, yah, but he didn't act like he'd done something wrong. If this had been a M/F book, I'd be curious to know how it would've been dealt with then.
An okay read, two stars for me, might've been more had I been there for the entire series.
Very early on I started to get hints of some strange attitudes. Ms. Den and the neighbor Arthur were barely over sixty, but Ms. Den was described as a sweet old granny and Arthur couldn't do any fixing up at his place presumably because of his age.
The way the women were described was equally unsettling. One MCs mother had been shot by his father, the other one's had died tragically, too, after being whisked away by her husband. The wives of Alex's brothers cooked and did some casual match making and Ev couldn't be told her best friend had cancer because she was preagnant and had elevated blood pressure.
Then we got to the bisexual part. Alex -a very much relationship kinda guy- said he'd be okay with Ian fucking women because he's not gay. Umm. What? And when Ian does cheat, pretty spectacularly, it's referred to as sort of cheating. Because, you know, Ian isn't gay. SMH.
The entire cheating incident was dealt with in an entirely unsatisfying way as a whole, because it wasn't even aknowldged as real cheating. Plys, Ian nevere seemed to feel guilty. He was upset over losing Alex, yah, but he didn't act like he'd done something wrong. If this had been a M/F book, I'd be curious to know how it would've been dealt with then.
An okay read, two stars for me, might've been more had I been there for the entire series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2016
It seems like A LOT of details were missing from this book. Yes it is part of a series, but it can be read alone. It starts with Alex being upset and depressed about his boyfriend, Cooper passing in a car accident, which rightfully so is heartbreaking. He's moved in with his friend, Ian who is a womanizer who has a new woman every other night. And surprise, surprise the gay guy (Alex) falls for the straight friend (Ian.) Why is this still a thing? Ian and Alex kiss a couple of times and after a cancer scare (which seemed over WAY TOO soon) they get together and have a rocky relationship where Ian is questioning his sexuality. Why is it that the straight guy is only "gay" for the ONE gay guy who is pursuing him? Why does he have to be one or other. There's bisexuality (which Ian or Alex can't remember which one FINALLY brings up), pansexual, and many other "in between" sexualities that straight and gay.
Also the author throws in a random storyline about a 17 year old kid who's being abused, so Alex recuses him with the help of his and his brother's domestic violence group. And wouldn't you know it Ian and Alex end up adopting him at the end. Another cliche that I saw coming a mile away.
I feel like this relationship and storyline were cliche and nothing original. Maybe if I had read the other 3 books in the series (which I'm not planning to) I would've liked this more. There just seems to be a lot missing from this book and not enough detail about certain events. Personally I could see this book with another 20-100 pages and it would be much better.
Also the author throws in a random storyline about a 17 year old kid who's being abused, so Alex recuses him with the help of his and his brother's domestic violence group. And wouldn't you know it Ian and Alex end up adopting him at the end. Another cliche that I saw coming a mile away.
I feel like this relationship and storyline were cliche and nothing original. Maybe if I had read the other 3 books in the series (which I'm not planning to) I would've liked this more. There just seems to be a lot missing from this book and not enough detail about certain events. Personally I could see this book with another 20-100 pages and it would be much better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2016
4.5 Stars
Let me start by saying that this can be read as a stand alone, I highly recommend reading the other books in the series in order, so you can have a full understanding of all of the characters and their relationships.
Everly
Mason
Parker
There haven't been many authors I have found that can write a great m/m storyline. Shannon knocked this one out of the park. I hesitate to say much on the story line , but know that it definitely worth the read.
Haven't read the previous books in this "series", I was emotionally connected to all of the characters in the book and enjoyed how they were intertwined within the plot.
As I stated this is a male/male storyline, so if that is not something you are comfortable with, than this might not be the book for you. While there is not an over abundance of descriptive sex scenes, there are some super sexy moments that will make your temperature rise.
Overall, another great book by S.M. Shade
May 12, 2020
of all the books in the Striking Back series Alex is my favorite. not to say the other three books werent good, because they are. but, there is just something about Alex's story that just stuck with me. he is a character that has had to face loses in his life that just make you feel for him. and Ian's character is no different. there isnt any part of these characters that isnt perfectly constructed. you can just see their stroy playing out in your head. i hated when i turned the page and saw the word Epilogue on the top the page. when i saw that one word i knew that the book was coming to an end. and this was something that i didnt want to happen.
this was my first MM book and i can say that it is definitely one that i will be re-reading again and again.
this was my first MM book and i can say that it is definitely one that i will be re-reading again and again.
February 7, 2018
A bit too far fetched to be believable, in addition to plot holes and cheating. Alex and his brothers work to protect youth, but are willing to break the law and hide Kyle? Not only would they lose their license to keep Striking Back running, but they’d be arrested as kidnappers. And what art school just gives a full ride to a student based on a couple drawings? In fact, what school is going to harbor a runaway and falsify records to hide him?
Then we have the relationship between Alex and Ian. Alex is grieving the death of his beloved boyfriend only to suddenly realize he’s been in love with Ian. And Ian the womanizing straight guy suddenly realizes he he’s attracted to Alex but can’t come to terms with the fact he’s likely bi. So instead of communicating with Alex like a grown ass adult he cheats on him to prove he’s not gay. Luckily for him, Alex is sweet and forgiving. All Ian had to do was say sorry and they were back together.
In addition to the unbelievable events in this book, the writing could have been developed further. Often the author told a sequence of events, rather than showing and developing the storyline or characters. The author has some solid potential, but this book fell short.
Then we have the relationship between Alex and Ian. Alex is grieving the death of his beloved boyfriend only to suddenly realize he’s been in love with Ian. And Ian the womanizing straight guy suddenly realizes he he’s attracted to Alex but can’t come to terms with the fact he’s likely bi. So instead of communicating with Alex like a grown ass adult he cheats on him to prove he’s not gay. Luckily for him, Alex is sweet and forgiving. All Ian had to do was say sorry and they were back together.
In addition to the unbelievable events in this book, the writing could have been developed further. Often the author told a sequence of events, rather than showing and developing the storyline or characters. The author has some solid potential, but this book fell short.
January 21, 2018
I was given the box set to read and review
This was my first M/M romance and it was with a straight guy? What? Why couldn't the author have 2 gay guys getting together. I don't think gay guys turn straight guys gay. Ian has a different woman every night but because Alex, who is gay, stays at his house, they fall in love. So I already did not like the premise. I ended up skimming the book to finish it. If the book would have just been their love story maybe it would have been okay (suspension of reality aside) but there were multiple side plots going on (cancer, an inmate on death row, a kid at the abuse shelter) and their relationship was instant. It just didn't jive at all. But of course it all ends happily ever after. I have no problem reading a M/M book, I have heard they can be just as romantic, but this was not the one to start with.
This was my first M/M romance and it was with a straight guy? What? Why couldn't the author have 2 gay guys getting together. I don't think gay guys turn straight guys gay. Ian has a different woman every night but because Alex, who is gay, stays at his house, they fall in love. So I already did not like the premise. I ended up skimming the book to finish it. If the book would have just been their love story maybe it would have been okay (suspension of reality aside) but there were multiple side plots going on (cancer, an inmate on death row, a kid at the abuse shelter) and their relationship was instant. It just didn't jive at all. But of course it all ends happily ever after. I have no problem reading a M/M book, I have heard they can be just as romantic, but this was not the one to start with.
June 16, 2018
Ian is mine and so is Alex lol
S.M Shade ceases to amaze me once again. I love reading M/M books and let me tell you this is one of my favorites. They way the love unfolds between Ian and Alex is wow. Incredible amazing. At first it’s just a friendship/family bond but News Eve changes one little thing... plus to see all siblings back in the book it’s amazing. Reading this made me think of the situation going on right now with lgbt community and it’s true. So many people out there judge but it should matter to anyone else, Ian was scared because he was straight and loved woman but Alex well he gay. But love has no boundaries that’s for sure and they tested the waters and well you have to read the rest to see the story unfold!!!
S.M Shade ceases to amaze me once again. I love reading M/M books and let me tell you this is one of my favorites. They way the love unfolds between Ian and Alex is wow. Incredible amazing. At first it’s just a friendship/family bond but News Eve changes one little thing... plus to see all siblings back in the book it’s amazing. Reading this made me think of the situation going on right now with lgbt community and it’s true. So many people out there judge but it should matter to anyone else, Ian was scared because he was straight and loved woman but Alex well he gay. But love has no boundaries that’s for sure and they tested the waters and well you have to read the rest to see the story unfold!!!
March 4, 2018
Ohhh how I wanted to LOVE the shit outta this book. I NEEDED it after the heartbreak I felt at the end of Parker's book. I was already crushing soo hard on Alex and Cooper's relationship, but I knew Ian needed to be included and could see it brewing. I am soo wishy washy about this one because I absolutely LOVED their story but I needed more. MORE page time, and thoughts from Ian when he was figuring out what he wanted. And MORE time with Alex showing him the way and the two of them as a couple. I really just WANTED and NEEDED MORE from both of them. I wish their story had been a two part like books 1 & 2.
June 2, 2018
Spoiler Alert
I was really getting into this book and I liked it. The writing is great. The plot, though probably a little unrealistic at times, was great, too. I loved the main characters, Alex and Ian. I liked all the side characters. There's witty banter and a few laughs here and there. Then bam! Cheating. I put up with Ian's manwhoring ways before he hooked up with Alex. It was part of his character and it helped define him but I cannot stomach cheating. If you can tolerate cheating then I recommend this book as it is great but if you are like me and despise cheating, then you will want to take a pass.
I was really getting into this book and I liked it. The writing is great. The plot, though probably a little unrealistic at times, was great, too. I loved the main characters, Alex and Ian. I liked all the side characters. There's witty banter and a few laughs here and there. Then bam! Cheating. I put up with Ian's manwhoring ways before he hooked up with Alex. It was part of his character and it helped define him but I cannot stomach cheating. If you can tolerate cheating then I recommend this book as it is great but if you are like me and despise cheating, then you will want to take a pass.
June 22, 2018
Alex's manly man Ian
Really like the story of Alex and Ian. I think I understood a little better when people say they don't want to put labels on there sexual orientation. Ian was a heterosexual man or better described as a manwhore who slept with every women he could. Until he started getting feelings for his roommate Alex, which he is a gay man. He fell in love with Alex but still not having feelings or any attraction to other men, which can of made me understand when people say they fall in love with the person regardless of their sexual orientation. It was a sweet romance between friends/roomates.
Really like the story of Alex and Ian. I think I understood a little better when people say they don't want to put labels on there sexual orientation. Ian was a heterosexual man or better described as a manwhore who slept with every women he could. Until he started getting feelings for his roommate Alex, which he is a gay man. He fell in love with Alex but still not having feelings or any attraction to other men, which can of made me understand when people say they fall in love with the person regardless of their sexual orientation. It was a sweet romance between friends/roomates.
April 2, 2019
This entire series was perfection; the characters, the writing, the story lines. But this book -- Alex ... this one stole a little piece of my heart. I've never read a same sex romance before this, but this will definitely not be my last. The author made this journey so beautiful and heart wrenching, that I couldn't not be roped in. I finished this book weeks ago and I still remember the characters and their story and fall a little more in love each time.
And can I just start a petition now that every single book I read and love have an epilogue 5 years later/10 years later? And then also perhaps a sequel? Basically, I never want this love and their story to end.
And can I just start a petition now that every single book I read and love have an epilogue 5 years later/10 years later? And then also perhaps a sequel? Basically, I never want this love and their story to end.
August 2, 2020
I’m thinking I should have read the rest of the series before reading this book. I know it can be read as a standalone but with the mention of previous characters I just feel like I’m missing some of the backstory.
This was a book I’ve seen recommended multiprocessor times. It was good but not fantastic. At least for me.
Ian is straight and a complete manwhore. He lives with Alex who is gay and recently lost the man he loves. Together they make it through some difficult times by leaning on each other for support. Ian struggles with understanding his wants and desires. Alex struggles to be there for Ian and be patient with him.
This was a book I’ve seen recommended multiprocessor times. It was good but not fantastic. At least for me.
Ian is straight and a complete manwhore. He lives with Alex who is gay and recently lost the man he loves. Together they make it through some difficult times by leaning on each other for support. Ian struggles with understanding his wants and desires. Alex struggles to be there for Ian and be patient with him.
February 16, 2018
I am honestly and voluntarily reviewing a copy of this book 📚
Although I really liked Alex in all 3 of the previous books in the Striking Back Series, and my heart broke for him at the end of Parker’s book, I was less enamored with him in his own book. Ian was completely changing everything he thought he knew about himself sexually and I felt Alex didn’t always care about that turmoil. I was disappointed that the character I felt was the most compassionate was not when it came to his own relationship
Although I really liked Alex in all 3 of the previous books in the Striking Back Series, and my heart broke for him at the end of Parker’s book, I was less enamored with him in his own book. Ian was completely changing everything he thought he knew about himself sexually and I felt Alex didn’t always care about that turmoil. I was disappointed that the character I felt was the most compassionate was not when it came to his own relationship
July 6, 2018
Love builds bridges
I've been blown away by all 4 books in this series.
Each follows one of the brothers as they try to assist people caught in the horror of domestic abuse.
Dark subjects are covered throughout but the way the stories develop with the fantastic writing, you can't help but root for the people involved.
Despite the brothers suffering tragedy they prove that love can find anyone when it's least expected.
I highly recommend all these books and can say S. M. Shade is now one of my favourite authors.
I've been blown away by all 4 books in this series.
Each follows one of the brothers as they try to assist people caught in the horror of domestic abuse.
Dark subjects are covered throughout but the way the stories develop with the fantastic writing, you can't help but root for the people involved.
Despite the brothers suffering tragedy they prove that love can find anyone when it's least expected.
I highly recommend all these books and can say S. M. Shade is now one of my favourite authors.
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