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Reno PD Case Files #1
Confessions
A Reno PD Case File A serial killer known as the Confessor is kidnapping and torturing gay men, and Reno Police Department Evidence Technician Leif Carson is determined to catch him.
His personal life isn’t any less stressful. Despite being a virgin and having zero experience with men, he can’t stop thinking about his best friend’s ex, Rafe Castillo. Rafe is suffering from PTSD, but that doesn’t stop Leif from wanting to be with him.
Complete opposites, they’re an amazing fit once they do get together—until Rafe’s PTSD gets in the way and he walks away from the relationship before it has a chance to truly blossom. Even though he has intense feelings for the man, Leif has no choice but to let him go.
When the Confessor kidnaps Rafe, Leif does everything possible to locate him before he’s murdered. Rafe’s near-death experience changes him profoundly, but the danger isn’t over yet. Leif and Rafe will have to face pure evil together if they’re going to last.
His personal life isn’t any less stressful. Despite being a virgin and having zero experience with men, he can’t stop thinking about his best friend’s ex, Rafe Castillo. Rafe is suffering from PTSD, but that doesn’t stop Leif from wanting to be with him.
Complete opposites, they’re an amazing fit once they do get together—until Rafe’s PTSD gets in the way and he walks away from the relationship before it has a chance to truly blossom. Even though he has intense feelings for the man, Leif has no choice but to let him go.
When the Confessor kidnaps Rafe, Leif does everything possible to locate him before he’s murdered. Rafe’s near-death experience changes him profoundly, but the danger isn’t over yet. Leif and Rafe will have to face pure evil together if they’re going to last.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 9, 2016
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August 9, 2016Review originally posted at Sinfully.
3.5 stars
Leif is lonely and yearning for something more. He wants a family outside of his friends and even more, at 23 he’s ready for sex, but it has to be more than just a hook-up. Rafe is in bad shape mentally from an undercover job and his apparent PTSD appears to be getting worse as he is in town and doing nothing but drinking and sleeping with any man he can find. Leif’s best friend Jeremy (who also happens to be Rafe’s ex) is trying to help but becoming increasingly frustrated by the reckless behavior. His friends warn Leif off of Rafe, but Leif has lusted after the man since briefly meeting him months ago. Now that he is in town Leif is determined that Rafe is the one he wants to be his first. A run-in with a drunken Rafe as he’s about to be kicked out of a bar finally gets Leif what he wants, but things go far from smoothly afterwards.
The mystery is the main part of the story and that has Leif, an evidence technician, and Detective Cristian Flesh (of the author’s Flesh series), working to stop what appears to be a serial killer of gay men. The murders are gruesome and the killer is taunting them with videos. When Rafe becomes one of his victims, everything changes for him and Leif.
Although Rafe and Leif have only met once prior to Rafe showing up again, Leif is already quite taken with him. The romance is insta-love. The two spend very little time together before things go bad then once they are back together they are basically ready to commit. Leif knows he’s in love after their first time together and Rafe falls almost as quickly. I really missed having some relationship development and that made it difficult for me to feel any connection other than the sexual chemistry, which was definitely there. Leif spent more time bonding with his new friend Bailey than with Rafe. Leif has himself pretty together from the start, but Rafe does go through quite a bit of change during the story.
When I picked this story up as a first in the series I was unaware that this is a spin of Ethan Stone’s Flesh series, which I hadn’t read. The first chapter introduces most, if not all, of the couples from that series and there is some background from the books that is explained. While the story works as a standalone, Cristian Flesh plays a significant part here and there were times where I felt like I had missed out on things by not reading them, especially when it came to the motivations behind the manner in which he investigated the case. Also, although we eventually find out what happened, I did wonder how much of Rafe’s background story, if any, played out in that series. When he first shows up, he has obviously been on a downward spiral for some time and the characters from the prior series seemed to have an idea of what was happening.
I did enjoy the mystery storyline, which provided enough intrigue and suspense to keep me happy. While Leif may have low self-esteem in his personal life, he is highly intelligent and confident when it comes to his work. With good instincts and a brilliant mind he is able to provide information and possibilities necessary to the investigation. There comes a point where he suddenly questions himself when he shouldn't, but I guess that was necessary for some tension and to set up the final showdown. I was concerned about Flesh’s tunnel-vision during the investigation, which is eventually explained and again, is something I might have understood more if I had read the Flesh books. I did get frustrated toward the end with Cristian and Leif’s actions which seemed to be a change from their prior work on the investigation. Perhaps fans of Flesh may have more background and react differently to the characters than I did.
This was my first Ethan Stone book and I enjoyed the writing style and the characters. The mystery is fully resolved here, but I would hope to see more of Leif and Rafe as the series moves forward. I see myself reading more in the future and would pick up the next installment of this series. I’d recommend it to anyone who is a fan of the Flesh books or any reader who likes mystery with a side of sexy.
3.5 stars
Leif is lonely and yearning for something more. He wants a family outside of his friends and even more, at 23 he’s ready for sex, but it has to be more than just a hook-up. Rafe is in bad shape mentally from an undercover job and his apparent PTSD appears to be getting worse as he is in town and doing nothing but drinking and sleeping with any man he can find. Leif’s best friend Jeremy (who also happens to be Rafe’s ex) is trying to help but becoming increasingly frustrated by the reckless behavior. His friends warn Leif off of Rafe, but Leif has lusted after the man since briefly meeting him months ago. Now that he is in town Leif is determined that Rafe is the one he wants to be his first. A run-in with a drunken Rafe as he’s about to be kicked out of a bar finally gets Leif what he wants, but things go far from smoothly afterwards.
The mystery is the main part of the story and that has Leif, an evidence technician, and Detective Cristian Flesh (of the author’s Flesh series), working to stop what appears to be a serial killer of gay men. The murders are gruesome and the killer is taunting them with videos. When Rafe becomes one of his victims, everything changes for him and Leif.
Although Rafe and Leif have only met once prior to Rafe showing up again, Leif is already quite taken with him. The romance is insta-love. The two spend very little time together before things go bad then once they are back together they are basically ready to commit. Leif knows he’s in love after their first time together and Rafe falls almost as quickly. I really missed having some relationship development and that made it difficult for me to feel any connection other than the sexual chemistry, which was definitely there. Leif spent more time bonding with his new friend Bailey than with Rafe. Leif has himself pretty together from the start, but Rafe does go through quite a bit of change during the story.
When I picked this story up as a first in the series I was unaware that this is a spin of Ethan Stone’s Flesh series, which I hadn’t read. The first chapter introduces most, if not all, of the couples from that series and there is some background from the books that is explained. While the story works as a standalone, Cristian Flesh plays a significant part here and there were times where I felt like I had missed out on things by not reading them, especially when it came to the motivations behind the manner in which he investigated the case. Also, although we eventually find out what happened, I did wonder how much of Rafe’s background story, if any, played out in that series. When he first shows up, he has obviously been on a downward spiral for some time and the characters from the prior series seemed to have an idea of what was happening.
I did enjoy the mystery storyline, which provided enough intrigue and suspense to keep me happy. While Leif may have low self-esteem in his personal life, he is highly intelligent and confident when it comes to his work. With good instincts and a brilliant mind he is able to provide information and possibilities necessary to the investigation. There comes a point where he suddenly questions himself when he shouldn't, but I guess that was necessary for some tension and to set up the final showdown. I was concerned about Flesh’s tunnel-vision during the investigation, which is eventually explained and again, is something I might have understood more if I had read the Flesh books. I did get frustrated toward the end with Cristian and Leif’s actions which seemed to be a change from their prior work on the investigation. Perhaps fans of Flesh may have more background and react differently to the characters than I did.
This was my first Ethan Stone book and I enjoyed the writing style and the characters. The mystery is fully resolved here, but I would hope to see more of Leif and Rafe as the series moves forward. I see myself reading more in the future and would pick up the next installment of this series. I’d recommend it to anyone who is a fan of the Flesh books or any reader who likes mystery with a side of sexy.
July 17, 2016
When Reno PD Evidence Technician Leif Carson is asked to help the M.E. with a mutilated body neither realize it's the first in what will turn out to be a very sick serial killer's game of luring gay men, torturing, killing and taunting the police with the murders.
Police detective Cristian Flesh is determined to find the killer, and so is Leif, but no more so than when the man he can't stop thinking about and wants to make a life with, Rafe Castillo, is taken by the Confessor.
This is actually two stories in one - you have the mystery/suspense story featuring the Confessor serial killer and you have the relationship story between Lief and Rafe with Rafe pushing Leif away because of his PTSD and a small misunderstanding. No worries, though - there's a very sweet HFN.
Filled with mystery, suspense, some humor, romance, action, and sex I can guarantee anyone who is a fan of Ethan Stone, and all of his other series, will probably go nuts for this story.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Confessions (Reno PD Case Files #1) provided by DSP Publications in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
“It appears this man is targeting gay men of various ages in an effort to get them to admit being homosexual and that it is a sin. This man, who I have dubbed the Confessor, is dangerous. I urge everyone, especially gay men, to be careful about who you’re alone with in private places.”
“Oh, fuck me,” Cristian moaned. “Roach just gave this guy even more power. I’m telling you, he’s going to be even more emboldened than ever. Believe it or not, this is going to get worse.”
I hadn’t imagined that was possible.
Police detective Cristian Flesh is determined to find the killer, and so is Leif, but no more so than when the man he can't stop thinking about and wants to make a life with, Rafe Castillo, is taken by the Confessor.
This is actually two stories in one - you have the mystery/suspense story featuring the Confessor serial killer and you have the relationship story between Lief and Rafe with Rafe pushing Leif away because of his PTSD and a small misunderstanding. No worries, though - there's a very sweet HFN.
Filled with mystery, suspense, some humor, romance, action, and sex I can guarantee anyone who is a fan of Ethan Stone, and all of his other series, will probably go nuts for this story.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Confessions (Reno PD Case Files #1) provided by DSP Publications in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
August 6, 2016
*´¨✫)Forgive me father for this 4 star sin...
¸.•´¸.•*´¨)✯ ¸.•*¨)
✮ (¸.•´✶ (¸.•This is my confession.
The mystery that is Ethan Stone continues with this exceptional story. I discovered Ethan when I first committed to the MM genre and have enjoyed the Flesh series.
Someone was taking Reno by storm. Subtly killing gay men. It was a torture so gruesome, he needed to be stopped. There seemed to be no rhyme or reason, until one of Reno's own got caught up in the game.
Leif Carson was a genius. By 21 he had two masters degree and was the newest forensic expert with Reno P.D. Friends with Flesh and his friends, the guys took a delight on teasing Leif on his virginal status and got a kick out of trying to set him up. Unfortunately, the only person Leif wanted was the one guy he was warned away from, his best friend's ex-boyfriend, Rafe Castillo.
Rafe had been too deep undercover and was suffering from PTSD and it was bad. He refused to get help. His friends were worried and his ex was losing his current boyfriend due to Rafe's destructive behavior.
"I was attracted to you the moment I met you..." --Rafe
With all that was going on, their getting together should not have worked. But Rafe and Leif fell into an unlikely relationship that worked. Until a forgotten intervention blew up in Leif's face and Rafe went back to his old ways.
When Rafe disappeared, it took the team as a whole to get to him before the Killer known as the Confessor makes Rafe his next victim.
There was enough mystery to keep me on the edge of my seat and enough bedroom action to keep me salivating. A truly enjoyable mystery/thriller read for any Ethan Stone fan. This one is a don't miss.
ARC provided by DSP Publications in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
¸.•´¸.•*´¨)✯ ¸.•*¨)
✮ (¸.•´✶ (¸.•This is my confession.
The mystery that is Ethan Stone continues with this exceptional story. I discovered Ethan when I first committed to the MM genre and have enjoyed the Flesh series.
Someone was taking Reno by storm. Subtly killing gay men. It was a torture so gruesome, he needed to be stopped. There seemed to be no rhyme or reason, until one of Reno's own got caught up in the game.
Leif Carson was a genius. By 21 he had two masters degree and was the newest forensic expert with Reno P.D. Friends with Flesh and his friends, the guys took a delight on teasing Leif on his virginal status and got a kick out of trying to set him up. Unfortunately, the only person Leif wanted was the one guy he was warned away from, his best friend's ex-boyfriend, Rafe Castillo.
Rafe had been too deep undercover and was suffering from PTSD and it was bad. He refused to get help. His friends were worried and his ex was losing his current boyfriend due to Rafe's destructive behavior.
"I was attracted to you the moment I met you..." --Rafe
With all that was going on, their getting together should not have worked. But Rafe and Leif fell into an unlikely relationship that worked. Until a forgotten intervention blew up in Leif's face and Rafe went back to his old ways.
When Rafe disappeared, it took the team as a whole to get to him before the Killer known as the Confessor makes Rafe his next victim.
There was enough mystery to keep me on the edge of my seat and enough bedroom action to keep me salivating. A truly enjoyable mystery/thriller read for any Ethan Stone fan. This one is a don't miss.
ARC provided by DSP Publications in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
August 3, 2016
***Hit and Miss - 3.5 Stars***
I liked Leif, and I loved Rafe, right from the start. I really did. It was clear that Leif had a Mr. Fixit cap that he liked to wear, and since he’d been dreaming of Rafe for ages, Rafe’s PTSD was just another task on the chore list for Leif. So I thought that this would be an amazing personal growth kind of thing while playing with a serial killer. I was wrong. Other than losing his virginity, Leif really didn’t do much in the way of growth. Rafe definitely did, but then, that was to be expected what with the kidnapping and all of Rafe’s less-than-stellar decisions (which I’m not giving away here - you’ll have to read the book).
The chemistry came across as insta-love/insta-hate/insta-love again, and it left me not really feeling the connection between the two men. The mystery was wonderful. Lots of suspense and intrigue, though the whodunit became abundantly clear early on. The policing was less than effective, and I was surprised that Cristian would be portrayed thusly considering the series that he’d already starred in. The peripheral characters really made the book for me, providing a fuller, richer experience all around. There is clearly more coming, and I hope to see these two featured again in such a way as to show further growth and cohesiveness.
Review copy of Confessions provided by the publisher, DSP Publications, for an honest review.
I liked Leif, and I loved Rafe, right from the start. I really did. It was clear that Leif had a Mr. Fixit cap that he liked to wear, and since he’d been dreaming of Rafe for ages, Rafe’s PTSD was just another task on the chore list for Leif. So I thought that this would be an amazing personal growth kind of thing while playing with a serial killer. I was wrong. Other than losing his virginity, Leif really didn’t do much in the way of growth. Rafe definitely did, but then, that was to be expected what with the kidnapping and all of Rafe’s less-than-stellar decisions (which I’m not giving away here - you’ll have to read the book).
The chemistry came across as insta-love/insta-hate/insta-love again, and it left me not really feeling the connection between the two men. The mystery was wonderful. Lots of suspense and intrigue, though the whodunit became abundantly clear early on. The policing was less than effective, and I was surprised that Cristian would be portrayed thusly considering the series that he’d already starred in. The peripheral characters really made the book for me, providing a fuller, richer experience all around. There is clearly more coming, and I hope to see these two featured again in such a way as to show further growth and cohesiveness.
Review copy of Confessions provided by the publisher, DSP Publications, for an honest review.
October 29, 2016
The writing is, at times, very stilted and mechanical and feels unpolished. However I ended up pressing on. I actually thought the mystery got much better and the police part wasn't terrible but Rafe as a former cop, failed out FBI guy? Hmmmm. Not so much. I did enjoy it - largely because of the mystery as the relationship (other than hot sex) didn't feel quite right to me. They should have had a lot to talk about, a lot more in common due to their roles being complimentary. Rafe just didn't seem like a cop - other than being an asshole in the beginning. He did get better -- but I never got into who he was.
Want to read
August 17, 2016I don't know about the writing/book itself... but that cover. Gorgeous.
March 25, 2017
This is a really good mystery with likeable and interesting characters, a frisson of darkness and plenty of CSI like drama.
I really enjoyed the 'In the Flesh' series which focused on Reno PD Detective Cristian Flesh. This story is the beginning of a new series based on the Reno PD, but with new characters. The best part is that there are appearances from the other characters in the Flesh series, so although this book is new and can be read as a stand alone, it does have some continuity for fans of the Flesh series.
This is a great new start though and this new series opens with a story about forensics expert Leif Carson.
Leif is a highly intelligent young man. He has excelled at school, at university and is now on the fast track to a senior position within the evidence department at Reno PD. Although he is a high flyer at work he is a reserved young man (nerd) in his private life. He doesn't date, hasn't ever had a relationship and spends his time on gaming, but he does have some friends and it is at his friend's house that he meets the hot and hunky Rafe.
Rafe is a troubled police detective. Having returned from an undercover assignment he is dealing with his trauma by drinking, partying and sex. When he meets Leif all of that comes to a quick end and it does look as if there is hope around the corner. Leif is deeply attracted to Rafe. He knows Rafe isn't into long term relationships but he hopes that they can at least get to know each other. Unfortunately everything unravels before the relationship even begins.
Leif is gutted when things don't work out with Rafe but he decides to keep hoping. Meanwhile there is a serial killer on the loose who is torturing and murdering gay men. Cristian is relying on Leif to process and analyse the evidence that will help them catch the killer. Leif ploughs his energy into this, hoping that his evidence will give the police sufficient clues to work with.
When Rafe is kidnapped by the murderer Leif finds that he is in a race against time to rescue Rafe and rescue the hope of a relationship with him.
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the way the different characters each had very distinctive voices that gave the story a rich, fast paced feel and kept me hooked. Leif is a great character, both nerdy, clever and adorable but he is also able to fight his corner when needed. Rafe really comes across as the bad boy who is sinking rather than swimming but unable to recognise this himself. Theirs is a gentle, emerging romance which is easily derailed by the pressures that Rafe is ignoring.
And then the darkness falls when the killer strikes!
I thought this was a well written story with a good pace and a frisson of darkness and suspense. Towards the end the pace ramps up and I was on tenterhooks because I knew that the big reveal was about to happen. As always I had my own suspects but I didn't know why the killer was murdering people. It had a good ending and I definitely think this is going to be a series for me to follow.
Copy provided by Dreamspinner via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
July 2, 2017
Confessions by Ethan Stone is a romantic mystery novel, delving into late virginity and serial killers. Leif Carson is an evidence technician for the Reno Police Department and he’s tasked with finding the perpetrator of the mass kidnappings and tortures of gay men. He spends his downtime fantasizing about Rafe Castillo, the only man he’s formed a deep connection with in years. Unfortunately, Rafe’s PTSD makes him cautious about relationships.
This was a fantastic book! I loved that Stone’s main focus was the mystery, only adding in the romance in the periphery. The pursuit of the serial killer kept me guessing until the very end. The romance was believable and the characters were endearing. Leif’s loneliness and longing jumped off the page. The way he helped Rafe through his struggles made them both stronger. All in all, I would recommend this book to anyone who likes great writing and edge of your seat suspense.
Reviewed by Liz Cat for Crystal's Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
This was a fantastic book! I loved that Stone’s main focus was the mystery, only adding in the romance in the periphery. The pursuit of the serial killer kept me guessing until the very end. The romance was believable and the characters were endearing. Leif’s loneliness and longing jumped off the page. The way he helped Rafe through his struggles made them both stronger. All in all, I would recommend this book to anyone who likes great writing and edge of your seat suspense.
Reviewed by Liz Cat for Crystal's Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
May 24, 2018
I liked the plot line, the murders (gruesome) with a few red herrings (felt my first suspect always had potential!) and a bit of a twist. This probably was enough to get this from a 2.5* read up to the 3* rating.
It is book 1 but has the characters from the Flesh series so a lot of conversations/references to previous history (in reality, thus is fine as you dont do a recap of past history with friends) but I did find some of their actions a bit juvenile or unprofessional at times.
Ryan and Leif seemed to leap forward once they got their issues resolved.
So it was OK, liked the plot but wanted more realistic characters.
It is book 1 but has the characters from the Flesh series so a lot of conversations/references to previous history (in reality, thus is fine as you dont do a recap of past history with friends) but I did find some of their actions a bit juvenile or unprofessional at times.
Ryan and Leif seemed to leap forward once they got their issues resolved.
So it was OK, liked the plot but wanted more realistic characters.
July 21, 2018
Another fantastic read from one of my go-to authors when I'm looking for police procedural/crime fiction mixed with smexy gay romance. Leif and Rafe were fab together. I love that the author wasn't afraid to put the characters in the line of fire and in mortal danger.
Read it in one sitting and couldn't put it down until the end.
5 fabulous stars.
Read it in one sitting and couldn't put it down until the end.
5 fabulous stars.
August 9, 2016
3.5 Stars ~ This is what appears to be the first in a new series, Reno PD Case Files, so I went into this thinking I was coming in at the beginning. Quickly, I found certain references and character interactions seemed to have backstories that intrigued me, but made me feel a little out of the loop on the dynamics between the characters. On a whim I went back and looked and saw that most of the secondary characters in this book are from the Flesh series, which I haven’t read. Did I need to read the Flesh series to enjoy this book? Not really. But I think I would have been able to enjoy the book a little more if I understood some of the dialogue and backstory that was referred to a little more. More than likely I will end up going back and reading the Flesh series because I truly did enjoy the secondary characters and found myself wanting the entire picture.
I don’t know much about the inner workings of Police Departments, but my guess is in some of the situations Leif finds himself in the reader has to suspend a little disbelief. If you are the type of reader who picks apart the police procedure aspect of a mystery novel, you may find yourself a little frustrated. For me? It wasn’t anything that was so far out of the realm I couldn’t enjoy the story and go with the flow, taking the story for what it was. The mystery aspect was interesting and held my attention. A serial killer labeled “The Confessor” is out targeting gay men to torture and kill in very gruesome ways. The evidence is sparse and the killer is escalating. Cristian Flesh is the lead detective on the case, and Leif finds his expertise in demand and embroiled in the investigation.
Leif is a likable little genius who genuinely is a nice guy. He is very analytical and does well being an evidence technician. Leif has had a thing for Rafe Castillo since he first met him months prior to when this book starts. When they meet again, Rafe isn’t in the best condition—sloppy drunk (side note: I was very happy to see Leif was honest in his description of a drunk Rafe). Even with Rafe’s less than stellar behavior, Leif is extremely attracted to the man and can’t help but fantasize about him. Leif sincerely wants to help Rafe heal, and makes choices with the best intentions. Rafe is a mess, a complete disaster. He suffers from PTSD but refuses to admit it, thinking by admitting he suffers from it would mean he is crazy. He is on a downward spiral and is keeping those who care for his wellbeing in the dark.
Through a series of events, the two end up together and it is sort of insta-love. The sex was pretty hot, and Rafe surprised me with how caring he was with Leif, as though he knew Leif was someone to be treasured. It is clear there are major sparks for the two of them. Unfortunately, just as quickly as they get together, it comes crashing down and Leif is left brokenhearted. While Leif tries to find a way to save what could have been with Rafe, Rafe disappears and Leif connects his disappearance to the serial killer case he has been working on with Cristian.
The mystery was well paced and I found myself trying to puzzle out the evidence with Leif. I also really enjoyed Leif’s character. There wasn’t a ton of character growth on his part, but the story takes place over a short period of time, so I didn’t expect a huge change. Leif was fairly mature and overall had a steady head on his shoulders. He may be a little naïve and self-conscious, but that is not uncommon for a young adult with his background. Rafe had some growth and that was the most important part; he was suffering and making poor decisions while trying to overcome his PTSD in some of the worst possible ways, mainly by refusing to admit he suffered from it at all. It was nice to see the changes in his personality and maturity.
Ultimately, I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more in the series. If you enjoy a good mystery and don’t mind a little insta-love, this series may just be for you.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach Reviews
I don’t know much about the inner workings of Police Departments, but my guess is in some of the situations Leif finds himself in the reader has to suspend a little disbelief. If you are the type of reader who picks apart the police procedure aspect of a mystery novel, you may find yourself a little frustrated. For me? It wasn’t anything that was so far out of the realm I couldn’t enjoy the story and go with the flow, taking the story for what it was. The mystery aspect was interesting and held my attention. A serial killer labeled “The Confessor” is out targeting gay men to torture and kill in very gruesome ways. The evidence is sparse and the killer is escalating. Cristian Flesh is the lead detective on the case, and Leif finds his expertise in demand and embroiled in the investigation.
Leif is a likable little genius who genuinely is a nice guy. He is very analytical and does well being an evidence technician. Leif has had a thing for Rafe Castillo since he first met him months prior to when this book starts. When they meet again, Rafe isn’t in the best condition—sloppy drunk (side note: I was very happy to see Leif was honest in his description of a drunk Rafe). Even with Rafe’s less than stellar behavior, Leif is extremely attracted to the man and can’t help but fantasize about him. Leif sincerely wants to help Rafe heal, and makes choices with the best intentions. Rafe is a mess, a complete disaster. He suffers from PTSD but refuses to admit it, thinking by admitting he suffers from it would mean he is crazy. He is on a downward spiral and is keeping those who care for his wellbeing in the dark.
Through a series of events, the two end up together and it is sort of insta-love. The sex was pretty hot, and Rafe surprised me with how caring he was with Leif, as though he knew Leif was someone to be treasured. It is clear there are major sparks for the two of them. Unfortunately, just as quickly as they get together, it comes crashing down and Leif is left brokenhearted. While Leif tries to find a way to save what could have been with Rafe, Rafe disappears and Leif connects his disappearance to the serial killer case he has been working on with Cristian.
The mystery was well paced and I found myself trying to puzzle out the evidence with Leif. I also really enjoyed Leif’s character. There wasn’t a ton of character growth on his part, but the story takes place over a short period of time, so I didn’t expect a huge change. Leif was fairly mature and overall had a steady head on his shoulders. He may be a little naïve and self-conscious, but that is not uncommon for a young adult with his background. Rafe had some growth and that was the most important part; he was suffering and making poor decisions while trying to overcome his PTSD in some of the worst possible ways, mainly by refusing to admit he suffered from it at all. It was nice to see the changes in his personality and maturity.
Ultimately, I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more in the series. If you enjoy a good mystery and don’t mind a little insta-love, this series may just be for you.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach Reviews
October 29, 2016
This book is the first in a new series, but also a spin-off from the previously published „Flesh“ series. If you’ve been following this author’s work, you’ll meet many familiar faces here: Cristian and Colby, Gabe and Drew, Jeremy and Kipp … since knowledge of their backstory is pretty much assumed as a given, I’d advise against reading this book as a standalone.
The main character of this book is Leif who works in a crime lab. He’s more of a behind-the-scenes guy, very confident in his ability to connect the dots professionally, but at the same time very insecure about his effect on other men. Which is why he’s still a virgin, a fact that his friends love to tease him about. As the 1st person POV narrator, I got to know him pretty well and could relate to the attitude changes he went through over the course of the story.
Rafe, whom we only get to see through Leif’s eyes, remained more of a mystery to me; in fact, I found him rather difficult to relate to. We’re told the reason for his excessive drinking and fucking around is PTSD, but that still left a lot of questions open for me. For that reason, I found his reaction to a perceived slight over the top dramatic, much like his reconciliation with Leif.
The mystery part of the book grabbed me right from the beginning. The police procedures read realistic to me, with just the right touch of TV crime series exorbitance to keep things interesting. I’m outing myself as a CSI and NCIS fan here, so it’s not surprising that I loved looking over Leif’s shoulder. And I liked watching how Leif and Cristian evolved from distant work acquaintances to real friends.
By contrast, the romance between Leif and Rafe read somewhat contrived, mostly because Rafe’s behavior struck me as rather erratic. Nevertheless, their chemistry is hot and they made a good couple in the end.
All in all, I’d consider this book a must-read for fans of the author. For anybody else, if you like a good mystery and if you can take a bit of missing backstory, you might want to give this a try.
Reviewed for www.prismbookalliance.com
The main character of this book is Leif who works in a crime lab. He’s more of a behind-the-scenes guy, very confident in his ability to connect the dots professionally, but at the same time very insecure about his effect on other men. Which is why he’s still a virgin, a fact that his friends love to tease him about. As the 1st person POV narrator, I got to know him pretty well and could relate to the attitude changes he went through over the course of the story.
Rafe, whom we only get to see through Leif’s eyes, remained more of a mystery to me; in fact, I found him rather difficult to relate to. We’re told the reason for his excessive drinking and fucking around is PTSD, but that still left a lot of questions open for me. For that reason, I found his reaction to a perceived slight over the top dramatic, much like his reconciliation with Leif.
The mystery part of the book grabbed me right from the beginning. The police procedures read realistic to me, with just the right touch of TV crime series exorbitance to keep things interesting. I’m outing myself as a CSI and NCIS fan here, so it’s not surprising that I loved looking over Leif’s shoulder. And I liked watching how Leif and Cristian evolved from distant work acquaintances to real friends.
By contrast, the romance between Leif and Rafe read somewhat contrived, mostly because Rafe’s behavior struck me as rather erratic. Nevertheless, their chemistry is hot and they made a good couple in the end.
All in all, I’d consider this book a must-read for fans of the author. For anybody else, if you like a good mystery and if you can take a bit of missing backstory, you might want to give this a try.
Reviewed for www.prismbookalliance.com
August 15, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
Confessions is billed as a standalone and book one of a new series. While much of reading is about perception, my perception is that this book is not a stand alone and is actually a spin-off of Stone’s Flesh series. I have only read the first book in that series and recognized Cristian and Colby when they appeared in the first chapter of this book. Cristian then appears throughout the entire book, along with other characters from the Flesh series that I was not familiar with. There are relationships already formed and prior cases discussed and it’s inferred that all readers will know exactly what is going on. Also, Cristian’s backstory is not revealed in book one of the Flesh series and here it’s casually offered as fact, which now gives me little incentive to go back and finish that series. Billing this book as the start of a brand new series did nothing more than annoy me because quite simply, it does not stand alone.
The focus of this book is on Leif and the story is told from his POV. Everyone knows he’s a virgin and everyone has a comment about it and the conversations began to feel forced. He’s always been attracted to Rafe and although Rafe is Jeremy’s ex, Jeremy has a new boyfriend. Rafe is out of control as he’s drowning himself in alcohol and sex. We are told he has PTSD, but nothing is from his POV. Since only brief snippets of his story are offered, when he thinks he’s being betrayed during an intervention, he comes off as merely having a tantrum because we are not told the depths of what is really going on with this guy.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
2.5 stars
Confessions is billed as a standalone and book one of a new series. While much of reading is about perception, my perception is that this book is not a stand alone and is actually a spin-off of Stone’s Flesh series. I have only read the first book in that series and recognized Cristian and Colby when they appeared in the first chapter of this book. Cristian then appears throughout the entire book, along with other characters from the Flesh series that I was not familiar with. There are relationships already formed and prior cases discussed and it’s inferred that all readers will know exactly what is going on. Also, Cristian’s backstory is not revealed in book one of the Flesh series and here it’s casually offered as fact, which now gives me little incentive to go back and finish that series. Billing this book as the start of a brand new series did nothing more than annoy me because quite simply, it does not stand alone.
The focus of this book is on Leif and the story is told from his POV. Everyone knows he’s a virgin and everyone has a comment about it and the conversations began to feel forced. He’s always been attracted to Rafe and although Rafe is Jeremy’s ex, Jeremy has a new boyfriend. Rafe is out of control as he’s drowning himself in alcohol and sex. We are told he has PTSD, but nothing is from his POV. Since only brief snippets of his story are offered, when he thinks he’s being betrayed during an intervention, he comes off as merely having a tantrum because we are not told the depths of what is really going on with this guy.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
August 25, 2016
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Review:
This was a great story. From the very beginning Leif is doing everything he can to help fine the confessor along with his friends also working at the police department while still trying to learn how to have his own personal life.
Leif is the only single person in his group of friends and really wants to find someone to love and have someone to love him. When Leif brings his friend’s ex home to sleep off his drunkenness the events of the next morning give him hope that he may have found that person. However, a misunderstanding on Rafe’s part send him right back into a drunken haze.
This story is told from Colin’s view, but it is told in such a way that I could still understand the other characters feelings in addition to Colin’s. When Rafe disappears after their misunderstanding he won’t let anything get in his way to find Rafe while also finding the Confessor. Colin is so innocent when it comes to relationships, but also so grown up with how he acts it was nice not having the younger person throwing a fit as is often seen. This book is a spin-off of Ethan’s Flesh series, but it isn’t necessary to read them to connect with this story since it didn’t rely on the events of those books. I can’t wait for another book in this series to see more of these characters.
Cover art by Aaron Anderson is wonderful and sets a tone for the story.
This was a great story. From the very beginning Leif is doing everything he can to help fine the confessor along with his friends also working at the police department while still trying to learn how to have his own personal life.
Leif is the only single person in his group of friends and really wants to find someone to love and have someone to love him. When Leif brings his friend’s ex home to sleep off his drunkenness the events of the next morning give him hope that he may have found that person. However, a misunderstanding on Rafe’s part send him right back into a drunken haze.
This story is told from Colin’s view, but it is told in such a way that I could still understand the other characters feelings in addition to Colin’s. When Rafe disappears after their misunderstanding he won’t let anything get in his way to find Rafe while also finding the Confessor. Colin is so innocent when it comes to relationships, but also so grown up with how he acts it was nice not having the younger person throwing a fit as is often seen. This book is a spin-off of Ethan’s Flesh series, but it isn’t necessary to read them to connect with this story since it didn’t rely on the events of those books. I can’t wait for another book in this series to see more of these characters.
Cover art by Aaron Anderson is wonderful and sets a tone for the story.
August 10, 2016
Copy from netgalley.
3.5 stars.
I requested this book because it sounded amazing, and lets be honest the cover is eye catching! I didn't quite get what I was looking for, so maybe this is a me and not the book problem.
What I was looking for was a dark and twisty book about a serial killer...what I actually got was a nice book about a group of friends who happen to try and catch a killer. I didn't think the characters were all the believable and I know its just a story but I just didn't feel them. Everything just happened so quickly...like Leif and Rafe didn't know each other and then suddenly Rafe had given up all his bad habits after having sex once with Leif. Also it kinda annoyed me that even with the meeting at the night club where he sees Rage just after blowing a guy, it was just brushed over and they fell in love. i know there was something that happened in there but it was just not dealt with.
I felt the serial killer aspect was secondary to the really quick love story of Rafe and Leif. I don't mind instalove....but this wasn't believable to me. Also the way that Leif seemed to run the investigation...even though he wasn't a detective...that wasn't quite right to me.
As I say maybe it just wasn't what I was looking for in a dark book, and Im sure there are people who would love it....it was just too nice for me.
3.5 stars.
I requested this book because it sounded amazing, and lets be honest the cover is eye catching! I didn't quite get what I was looking for, so maybe this is a me and not the book problem.
What I was looking for was a dark and twisty book about a serial killer...what I actually got was a nice book about a group of friends who happen to try and catch a killer. I didn't think the characters were all the believable and I know its just a story but I just didn't feel them. Everything just happened so quickly...like Leif and Rafe didn't know each other and then suddenly Rafe had given up all his bad habits after having sex once with Leif. Also it kinda annoyed me that even with the meeting at the night club where he sees Rage just after blowing a guy, it was just brushed over and they fell in love. i know there was something that happened in there but it was just not dealt with.
I felt the serial killer aspect was secondary to the really quick love story of Rafe and Leif. I don't mind instalove....but this wasn't believable to me. Also the way that Leif seemed to run the investigation...even though he wasn't a detective...that wasn't quite right to me.
As I say maybe it just wasn't what I was looking for in a dark book, and Im sure there are people who would love it....it was just too nice for me.
August 12, 2016
Confessions By Ethan Stone is a mystery and thriller read.
A serial killer known as the Confessor is kidnapping and torturing gay men, and Reno Police Department Evidence Technician Leif Carson is determined to catch him. His personal life isn’t any less stressful. Despite being a virgin and having zero experience with men, he can’t stop thinking about his best friend’s ex, Rafe Castillo. Rafe is suffering from PTSD, but that doesn’t stop Leif from wanting to be with him. Complete opposites, they’re an amazing fit once they do get together—until Rafe’s PTSD gets in the way and he walks away from the relationship before it has a chance to truly blossom. Even though he has intense feelings for the man, Leif has no choice but to let him go. When the Confessor kidnaps Rafe, Leif does everything possible to locate him before he’s murdered. Rafe’s near-death experience changes him profoundly, but the danger isn’t over yet. Leif and Rafe will have to face pure evil together if they’re going to last.
Absolutely fantastic read.
I loved the story and the characters.
Leif and Rafe were my favourite characters.
I loved the ending too.
Highly recommended.
5* from me.
Thanks to netgalley for the arc.
A serial killer known as the Confessor is kidnapping and torturing gay men, and Reno Police Department Evidence Technician Leif Carson is determined to catch him. His personal life isn’t any less stressful. Despite being a virgin and having zero experience with men, he can’t stop thinking about his best friend’s ex, Rafe Castillo. Rafe is suffering from PTSD, but that doesn’t stop Leif from wanting to be with him. Complete opposites, they’re an amazing fit once they do get together—until Rafe’s PTSD gets in the way and he walks away from the relationship before it has a chance to truly blossom. Even though he has intense feelings for the man, Leif has no choice but to let him go. When the Confessor kidnaps Rafe, Leif does everything possible to locate him before he’s murdered. Rafe’s near-death experience changes him profoundly, but the danger isn’t over yet. Leif and Rafe will have to face pure evil together if they’re going to last.
Absolutely fantastic read.
I loved the story and the characters.
Leif and Rafe were my favourite characters.
I loved the ending too.
Highly recommended.
5* from me.
Thanks to netgalley for the arc.
August 1, 2016
I fell in love with the main character Leif, from the first sentence… but he stopped developing and growing from that moment on. It was clear that this was the foundational story for a new series by Stone - so a lot of the book felt like background that will be referred to later in the series.
That being said, Confessions was filled with drama and mystery… and sex. There wasn’t a lot of true character bonding and missing from this book, that was so present in Stone’s other books, is the friendship aspect between the characters. It just didn’t click for me in this installment - starting with Leif’s job and Rafe’s PTSD that selectively shows itself.
Overall, I think the series may be another great one - but this first book fell a little short in actual love, romance and depth. The mystery and suspense kept it alive for me - but I’m waiting for the next book before making a decision on the series as a whole.
Review Copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Mel from Alpha Book Club.
That being said, Confessions was filled with drama and mystery… and sex. There wasn’t a lot of true character bonding and missing from this book, that was so present in Stone’s other books, is the friendship aspect between the characters. It just didn’t click for me in this installment - starting with Leif’s job and Rafe’s PTSD that selectively shows itself.
Overall, I think the series may be another great one - but this first book fell a little short in actual love, romance and depth. The mystery and suspense kept it alive for me - but I’m waiting for the next book before making a decision on the series as a whole.
Review Copy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Mel from Alpha Book Club.
August 13, 2016
I wasn't sure exactly what to expect before reading this as I have not read any of the books in the Flesh series, but I felt like this was a standalone. I do plan on reading those in the future though!
The beginning drew me in and I liked the insta-lust these two had. Everything was going well, and then something happens and the two hit a bumpy road. I guess I should have seen what was going to happen next, but I was glad I didn't. The mystery was great and even though it's about a serial killer, it's not too dark, which I thought worked well.
The cover is fantastic and I didn't realize its significants until I was well into the story. I can't wait for the next one. I wonder who it will be about?
The beginning drew me in and I liked the insta-lust these two had. Everything was going well, and then something happens and the two hit a bumpy road. I guess I should have seen what was going to happen next, but I was glad I didn't. The mystery was great and even though it's about a serial killer, it's not too dark, which I thought worked well.
The cover is fantastic and I didn't realize its significants until I was well into the story. I can't wait for the next one. I wonder who it will be about?
Read
January 12, 2017After the LENGTHY, totally unrelated, disussion of names in the comments section and a detour to In the Flesh, I have to accept that Ethan Stone is not an author for me.
This book never drew me in (name-issues aside); the story didn't grip me by the (imaginary) balls and demand my attention.
So I'm just gonna leave this book alone, and have decided not rating it, since I was never really invested my energy in it -unfortunately.
Again: this is clearly not the book (it has gotten pretty nice ratings), but my problem.
This book never drew me in (name-issues aside); the story didn't grip me by the (imaginary) balls and demand my attention.
So I'm just gonna leave this book alone, and have decided not rating it, since I was never really invested my energy in it -unfortunately.
Again: this is clearly not the book (it has gotten pretty nice ratings), but my problem.
August 10, 2016
True Ethan Stone fashion: suspenseful, steady paced, twist and turns and a few OMG!! I won't write a summary for you like others but I enjoyed reading this book immensely. It's goes right along with his Flesh series but can be read as a stand alone. Love seeing the other characters again, especially Flesh! Leif is a good guy, very intelligent and wants to find true love. Rafe (hot as f***) just needs to find the right guy in his life. Bringing these two together was explosive! And the "bad guy" pretty freaking evil! I highly recommend.
August 11, 2016
Who doesn't love Cristian Flesh? Sexy MOFO... I missed him and the guys
Fantastic story. Jeez, how much could poor Rafe take. Happy he found Leif, and together they will fight to overcome, they will support, love and nurture each other. This was sad, exciting, twisted, sexy, intense awesome read...loved it and CAN NOT WAIT FOR MORE
Fantastic story. Jeez, how much could poor Rafe take. Happy he found Leif, and together they will fight to overcome, they will support, love and nurture each other. This was sad, exciting, twisted, sexy, intense awesome read...loved it and CAN NOT WAIT FOR MORE
August 3, 2016
a good read.
August 10, 2016
Pretty good, but I had to suspend reality a bit (often).
October 2, 2016
i really liked this had me hooked right from the start couldnt put it down,recommended
October 9, 2016
2.5 Stars
Boring, shallow, repetitive, irritatingly patronizing, ridiculously flawed on so many levels...I rolled my eyes so often I gave myself a headache.
Boring, shallow, repetitive, irritatingly patronizing, ridiculously flawed on so many levels...I rolled my eyes so often I gave myself a headache.
March 4, 2018
So thrilling and very action packed.
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