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THIRDS #7
Smoke & Mirrors
Life for Dexter J. Daley has never been easy, but he s always found a way to pick himself back up with a smile on his face. Taken from his home and the arms of Sloane Brodie, his boyfriend and THIRDS partner, Dex finds himself in a situation as mysterious and lethal as the Therian interrogating him. Dex learns what he s secretly believed all along: his parents death wasn t an accident.
Discovering the whole truth about John and Gina Daley s homicide sets off a series of events that will change Dex and Sloane s life forever. As buried secrets rise to the surface and new truths are revealed, Dex and Sloane s love for each other is put to the test, with more than their relationship on the line. If traversing the waters of murder and secret government agencies wasn t enough, something inexplicable has been happening to Dex and nothing will ever be the same. "
Discovering the whole truth about John and Gina Daley s homicide sets off a series of events that will change Dex and Sloane s life forever. As buried secrets rise to the surface and new truths are revealed, Dex and Sloane s love for each other is put to the test, with more than their relationship on the line. If traversing the waters of murder and secret government agencies wasn t enough, something inexplicable has been happening to Dex and nothing will ever be the same. "
230 pages, Paperback
First published July 8, 2016
206 people are currently reading
1431 people want to read
About the author
Charlie Cochet
119 books3,531 followersStep into a world of romance, humor, and heart-pounding action with Charlie Cochet, the international bestselling author behind the captivating THIRDS series. Embrace a fusion of Cuban flair and American charm as you dive into her stories with unforgettable characters and a dash of delightful mayhem.
Fueled by a love for classic rock and Cuban lattes, Charlie resides in Central Florida with her rascally Doxiepoo and a very opinionated German Shepherd. When she isn’t writing, she’s losing herself in a whirlwind of books and movies.
Charlie’s stories will stir your imagination and ignite your passion. So grab your favorite coffee, turn up the music, and prepare for your next adventure.
Website: http://www.charliecochet.com
Patreon: http://www.thirdshq.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/charliecochet
Join Charlie's FB fan group
Fueled by a love for classic rock and Cuban lattes, Charlie resides in Central Florida with her rascally Doxiepoo and a very opinionated German Shepherd. When she isn’t writing, she’s losing herself in a whirlwind of books and movies.
Charlie’s stories will stir your imagination and ignite your passion. So grab your favorite coffee, turn up the music, and prepare for your next adventure.
Website: http://www.charliecochet.com
Patreon: http://www.thirdshq.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/charliecochet
Join Charlie's FB fan group
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 648 reviews
July 11, 2021
Third re-read: 11.07.2021
I fucking hate Sparks. But Dex and Sloane's relationship gets even stronger. They are truly meant to me. I love when things get animalistic. I want more books that are quite animalistic, possessive and feral... ;P
New rating: 3.5/3 stars.
Second re-read: 11.03.2020
This book is one of the better in the series. I love Sloane and Dex's relationship, it's beautiful. I love that the book is actually quite focused on them and their relationship rather than a big case. That being said, I did skim some bits as I'm still struggling with focusing, but it was a whole lot less than the other re-reads in the series.
Re-read: 11.06.2019
One question; what's the order in which Therian species is the most powerful? I mean, they got lions, tigers, jaguars... who's the top of the food chain? Who is the most feared? The most rare? Did Charlie Cochet ever mention this? Anyways, I adore Dex and Sloane together. They are absolutely amazing together and their love is quite powerful. I love how D & S centered this book is. I mean, we see the rest of the crew as well, but not as much as in the previous books, and don't get me wrong, I love when the crew are together, but I think this book was very needed where we got to see D & S hit another level of depths in their relationship. On to the next re-read.
First read review:
We're finally back with Dexter ‘Dex’ Justice Daley (35? 36? How old are they now?!) Defense Agent for Destructive Delta (used to be a homicide detective; the Human Police Force) and his Team Leader Sloane Brodie (37? 38? 39?), who's also his jaguar Therian partner and lover, centering the book. Book six left in quite a cliffhanger with Dex missing; kidnapped right from Sloane's arms without him noticing. And this one picks up right there. Something is wrong with Dex, but those who knows, keeps Sloane and Dex in the dark, expecting them to just go alone with it. Then there's the fact that the past is catching up to the present and no one knows where's up is anymore.
Overall, I actually have no idea how to write this review; I have so many emotions! Oh the heartbreaks! The book made me cry, for God's sake! It was quite a ride, full of action, friendship, love and family. And pain. So much pain. Yet there was such a beautiful story as well. Dex and Sloane is so gorgeous and beautiful together, their bond so powerful, and only getting stronger. I can't wait to see where the story will go next for them. I had seen a tiny - okay, it was big - spoiler for this book, so I sorta knew what would happen to Dex, but at the same time.... man, I hadn't expected that. <-- DO NOT READ SPOILER IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THE BOOK! On to the next.
Other Characters:
→ Isaac Pearce, a Homicide Detective. His brother, Gabe, who had been a THIRDS agent and died a year ago; had been killed by a Therian informant. Though that proved to be a lie; Isaac had killed his own brother. Gabe used to be Sloane human partner. Sloane and Gabe were sleeping together. A year before Gabe died, it had gotten pretty serious. They’d been together four years. Got killed in book two.
→ Anthony ‘Tony’ ‘Sarge’ ‘Sergeant’ ‘Sir’ Maddock, Dex's adoptive father and a sergeant at the Therian-Human Intelligence Recon Defense Squadron (Destructive Delta) otherwise known as the THIRDS.
→ THIRDS Destructive Delta Agent Tech Expert, Cael Maddock (27?), Dex's adoptive little brother and a cheetah Therian. Rosa Santiago, his human partner and Destructive Delta's crisis negotiator and medic. Both Recon agents.
→ Ash Keeler, a lion Therian and Destructive Delta's entry tactics and CQC expert, and his human partner, Julietta ‘Letty’ Guerrera, their weapons expert. Ash's also Sloane's best friend. Ash and Cael finally got together in book five.
Ethan Hobbs, a Therian Tiger and Destructive Delta's sniper and his human partner and lover, Calvin ‘Cal’ Summers, their demolitions expert. Hobbs suffers from Selective Mutism and Social Anxiety.
→ Rafe (the oldest brother), Team Leader for Alpha Ambush and Tiger Therian and Sebastian ‘Seb’ (middle brother),Agent for Theta Destructive newly promoted to Team Leader for Theta Destructive. Was once on Destructive Delta but was transferred after his relationship to Hudson ended in a breach of protocol and civilian loss. Is a Tiger Therian. Both Hobbs’s big brothers. We learned in book six that Rafe has gotten the Therian Acheron Syndrome as their father..
→ Dr. Nina Bishop, THIRDS Destructive Delta’s medical examiner and a human. Rafe and Nina are together.
→ Dr. Hudson Colbourn, THIRDS chief medical examiner, and a Canis Lupus (wolf) Therian.
→ Lieutenant Sonya Sparks, for THIRDS Unit Alpha and a Cougar Therian. Partner to human Tony. Sparks is part of TIN—Therian Intelligence Network; as an undercover operative . Sort of the Therian version of the CIA. They exist, but technically they don’t. Austen, the SSAs works for them.
→ Louis ‘Lou’ Huerta, Dex's ex-boyfriend of four years.
→ THIRDS Agent Ellis Taylor, Team Leader of Beta Ambush, and leopard Therian.
→ THIRDS Agent Levi Stone, Team Leader of Beta Pride, and white tiger Therian. Got arrested for being a mole inside the THIRDS and part of the Ikelos Coalition in book three.
→ Osmond Zachary ‘Zach’, Agent for Alpha Sleuth in Unit Beta and brown bear Therian. Has six brothers working for the THIRDS.
→ Bradley Darcy, bartender and owner of Bar Dekatria and Jaguar Therian.
→ Austen Payne (23? 24?), Squadron Specialist Agent (SSA) for Destructive Delta and a Cheetah Therian. Is a undercover freelance operative for TIN (Therian Intelligence Network).
→ Angel Reyes, Member of the Order. Former member of the gang Westward Creed.
→ Dr. Abraham Shultzon, was the head doctor during the First Gen Recruitment Program who was personally responsible for the wellbeing of the THIRDS’ First Gen Recruits. He was also responsible for the tests that were run on the Therian children. He was recently (book five) apprehended by TIN for creating an unsanctioned Therian mind control drug, and for kidnapping THIRDS Therian agents for unsanctioned project.
→ Arlo Keeler, Ash’s twin brother killed during the riots in the 1980s.
→ Beck Hogan, a Tiger Therian and leader of The Coalition. Dead: Fell to death.
→ Drew Collins, a Cougar Therian and a part of The Coalition; Hogan's new second-in-command. Dead: Ash snapped his neck..
→ Felipe Bautista, was Drew Collins’s boyfriend of ten years and a wolf Therian.
→ John Daley, Dexter J. Daley’s biological father. Anthony Maddock’s best friend, and partner at the HPF. Killed during a shootout in a movie theater during the riots. Human.
→ Gina Daley, Dexter J. Daley’s biological mother. Worked for the CDC in NYC. First to volunteer to work with Therians. Killed along with her husband during a shootout in a movie theater during the riots. Human.
→ Darla Summers, Calvin Summer’s mother. Human.
→ Thomas Hobbs, Ethan, Sebastian, and Rafe Hobbs’s father. Suffers from Therian Acheron Syndrome. Tiger Therian.
→ Julia Hobbs, Thomas Hobbs’s wife, and mother to Ethan, Sebastian, and Rafe Hobbs. Human.
→ Benedict Winters, THIRDS appointed psychologist.
→ Admiral Abbott Moros, Chief of Therian Defense. Tiger Therian.
→ Mr. Wolf, a wolf Therian who called himself Mr. Wolf, but that’s just one of many aliases. He’s a freelance professional. One of the best.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) ParanormalRomance (M/M).
Series: - Series, Book Seven.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Dexter ‘Dex’ ‘Rookie’ J. Daley.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - Probably not.
Rating - 3.5 stars.
I fucking hate Sparks. But Dex and Sloane's relationship gets even stronger. They are truly meant to me. I love when things get animalistic. I want more books that are quite animalistic, possessive and feral... ;P
New rating: 3.5/3 stars.
Second re-read: 11.03.2020
This book is one of the better in the series. I love Sloane and Dex's relationship, it's beautiful. I love that the book is actually quite focused on them and their relationship rather than a big case. That being said, I did skim some bits as I'm still struggling with focusing, but it was a whole lot less than the other re-reads in the series.
Re-read: 11.06.2019
One question; what's the order in which Therian species is the most powerful? I mean, they got lions, tigers, jaguars... who's the top of the food chain? Who is the most feared? The most rare? Did Charlie Cochet ever mention this? Anyways, I adore Dex and Sloane together. They are absolutely amazing together and their love is quite powerful. I love how D & S centered this book is. I mean, we see the rest of the crew as well, but not as much as in the previous books, and don't get me wrong, I love when the crew are together, but I think this book was very needed where we got to see D & S hit another level of depths in their relationship. On to the next re-read.
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Can Contain Spoilers*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
First read review:
We're finally back with Dexter ‘Dex’ Justice Daley (35? 36? How old are they now?!) Defense Agent for Destructive Delta (used to be a homicide detective; the Human Police Force) and his Team Leader Sloane Brodie (37? 38? 39?), who's also his jaguar Therian partner and lover, centering the book. Book six left in quite a cliffhanger with Dex missing; kidnapped right from Sloane's arms without him noticing. And this one picks up right there. Something is wrong with Dex, but those who knows, keeps Sloane and Dex in the dark, expecting them to just go alone with it. Then there's the fact that the past is catching up to the present and no one knows where's up is anymore.
Sloane hauled him inside, slammed the door behind them, and pounced. He kissed Dex ravenously while divesting him of his clothes. Buttons popped, clothes were torn, but Sloane couldn’t care less. All he could think about was being inside Dex, of claiming his mate. His.
“You’re mine,” Sloane hissed, cupping the back of Dex’s neck and bringing him in for an ardent kiss. Dex pressed himself up against Sloane, his fingers digging into Sloane, as if he feared Sloane would slip away.
“Yes. In every way, yes.”
Overall, I actually have no idea how to write this review; I have so many emotions! Oh the heartbreaks! The book made me cry, for God's sake! It was quite a ride, full of action, friendship, love and family. And pain. So much pain. Yet there was such a beautiful story as well. Dex and Sloane is so gorgeous and beautiful together, their bond so powerful, and only getting stronger. I can't wait to see where the story will go next for them. I had seen a tiny - okay, it was big - spoiler for this book, so I sorta knew what would happen to Dex, but at the same time.... man, I hadn't expected that. <-- DO NOT READ SPOILER IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THE BOOK! On to the next.
Dex’s chest rose and fell with short, rapid breaths, his pupils blown, and his terrified gaze on Sloane. Oh God, it was like he was dying. Tears pooled in Sloane’s eyes, and he brought Dex’s fingers to his lips for a kiss.
“If you’re wrong,” Sloane choked out, his eyes on Dex as he addressed Austen, “I’ll never forgive you.”
Austen’s words came out a whisper. “I know.”
Other Characters:
→ Isaac Pearce, a Homicide Detective. His brother, Gabe, who had been a THIRDS agent and died a year ago; had been killed by a Therian informant. Though that proved to be a lie; Isaac had killed his own brother. Gabe used to be Sloane human partner. Sloane and Gabe were sleeping together. A year before Gabe died, it had gotten pretty serious. They’d been together four years. Got killed in book two.
→ Anthony ‘Tony’ ‘Sarge’ ‘Sergeant’ ‘Sir’ Maddock, Dex's adoptive father and a sergeant at the Therian-Human Intelligence Recon Defense Squadron (Destructive Delta) otherwise known as the THIRDS.
→ THIRDS Destructive Delta Agent Tech Expert, Cael Maddock (27?), Dex's adoptive little brother and a cheetah Therian. Rosa Santiago, his human partner and Destructive Delta's crisis negotiator and medic. Both Recon agents.
“Cael—”
“If you weren’t ready to be serious about the two of you, you shouldn’t have marked him.”
The words were like a slap to the face, especially since the same thought had shamefully crossed his mind. He’d been so sure…. No. He was sure.
→ Ash Keeler, a lion Therian and Destructive Delta's entry tactics and CQC expert, and his human partner, Julietta ‘Letty’ Guerrera, their weapons expert. Ash's also Sloane's best friend. Ash and Cael finally got together in book five.
Ethan Hobbs, a Therian Tiger and Destructive Delta's sniper and his human partner and lover, Calvin ‘Cal’ Summers, their demolitions expert. Hobbs suffers from Selective Mutism and Social Anxiety.
→ Rafe (the oldest brother), Team Leader for Alpha Ambush and Tiger Therian and Sebastian ‘Seb’ (middle brother),
→ Dr. Nina Bishop, THIRDS Destructive Delta’s medical examiner and a human. Rafe and Nina are together.
→ Dr. Hudson Colbourn, THIRDS chief medical examiner, and a Canis Lupus (wolf) Therian.
→ Lieutenant Sonya Sparks, for THIRDS Unit Alpha and a Cougar Therian. Partner to human Tony. Sparks is part of TIN—Therian Intelligence Network; as an undercover operative . Sort of the Therian version of the CIA. They exist, but technically they don’t. Austen, the SSAs works for them.
→ Louis ‘Lou’ Huerta, Dex's ex-boyfriend of four years.
→ THIRDS Agent Ellis Taylor, Team Leader of Beta Ambush, and leopard Therian.
→ THIRDS Agent Levi Stone, Team Leader of Beta Pride, and white tiger Therian. Got arrested for being a mole inside the THIRDS and part of the Ikelos Coalition in book three.
→ Osmond Zachary ‘Zach’, Agent for Alpha Sleuth in Unit Beta and brown bear Therian. Has six brothers working for the THIRDS.
→ Bradley Darcy, bartender and owner of Bar Dekatria and Jaguar Therian.
→ Austen Payne (23? 24?), Squadron Specialist Agent (SSA) for Destructive Delta and a Cheetah Therian. Is a undercover freelance operative for TIN (Therian Intelligence Network).
→ Angel Reyes, Member of the Order. Former member of the gang Westward Creed.
→ Dr. Abraham Shultzon, was the head doctor during the First Gen Recruitment Program who was personally responsible for the wellbeing of the THIRDS’ First Gen Recruits. He was also responsible for the tests that were run on the Therian children. He was recently (book five) apprehended by TIN for creating an unsanctioned Therian mind control drug, and for kidnapping THIRDS Therian agents for unsanctioned project.
→ Arlo Keeler, Ash’s twin brother killed during the riots in the 1980s.
→ Beck Hogan, a Tiger Therian and leader of The Coalition. Dead: Fell to death.
→ Drew Collins, a Cougar Therian and a part of The Coalition; Hogan's new second-in-command. Dead: Ash snapped his neck..
→ Felipe Bautista, was Drew Collins’s boyfriend of ten years and a wolf Therian.
→ John Daley, Dexter J. Daley’s biological father. Anthony Maddock’s best friend, and partner at the HPF. Killed during a shootout in a movie theater during the riots. Human.
→ Gina Daley, Dexter J. Daley’s biological mother. Worked for the CDC in NYC. First to volunteer to work with Therians. Killed along with her husband during a shootout in a movie theater during the riots. Human.
→ Darla Summers, Calvin Summer’s mother. Human.
→ Thomas Hobbs, Ethan, Sebastian, and Rafe Hobbs’s father. Suffers from Therian Acheron Syndrome. Tiger Therian.
→ Julia Hobbs, Thomas Hobbs’s wife, and mother to Ethan, Sebastian, and Rafe Hobbs. Human.
→ Benedict Winters, THIRDS appointed psychologist.
→ Admiral Abbott Moros, Chief of Therian Defense. Tiger Therian.
→ Mr. Wolf, a wolf Therian who called himself Mr. Wolf, but that’s just one of many aliases. He’s a freelance professional. One of the best.
“That won’t happen.”
“Really? Because I’m losing count of your broken promises.”
That stung. “Now hold on a second—”
“No. I’m done.” The blazing anger and heartache in Dex’s blue eyes hurt, but the damage had been done. Dex gave a sniff and shook his head. “I’m not going to ask you to stay. I won’t beg you to be with me. Go do whatever it is you gotta do, but one of these days, the pieces you leave behind will be so broken I won’t be able to put them back together, and when that happens, I can’t promise you I’ll be here when you get back.”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal
Series: - Series, Book Seven.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Dexter ‘Dex’ ‘Rookie’ J. Daley.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - Probably not.
Rating - 3.5 stars.
October 17, 2024
Reread September 2021
Ugh! Sloane 😡 I still want to bitch-slap him 😂
Reread May 2020
Sloane still wanted to make me stabby.
Reread June 2019
Still feeling kind of stabby towards Sloane but I do love them as a couple. Dex holds my heart though 😍
Originally read August 2018
Dex is one of my favorite characters of all time. I love his quirks and humor. I wanted to stab Sloane when he hurt him. Thankfully he gets his head out of his ass but I can hold a mean grudge. His gesture at the end helped me towards forgiving him. Let's hope he continues to be better. Poor Dex though. My heart was literally hurting with him. And don't get me started on Cael telling Dex he was partly to blame. No, just no. Sloane is the one who is stunted emotionally and taking for granted Dex will be there every time he decides to run.
To me all the drama was OTT. I wasn't expecting all that and it was a little too much imo. I mean It was just a bit too much for me especially with all the other stuff going on.
But, anywho, I still love this series and will continue on.
Ugh! Sloane 😡 I still want to bitch-slap him 😂
Reread May 2020
Sloane still wanted to make me stabby.
Reread June 2019
Still feeling kind of stabby towards Sloane but I do love them as a couple. Dex holds my heart though 😍
Originally read August 2018
Dex is one of my favorite characters of all time. I love his quirks and humor. I wanted to stab Sloane when he hurt him. Thankfully he gets his head out of his ass but I can hold a mean grudge. His gesture at the end helped me towards forgiving him. Let's hope he continues to be better. Poor Dex though. My heart was literally hurting with him. And don't get me started on Cael telling Dex he was partly to blame. No, just no. Sloane is the one who is stunted emotionally and taking for granted Dex will be there every time he decides to run.
To me all the drama was OTT. I wasn't expecting all that and it was a little too much imo. I mean It was just a bit too much for me especially with all the other stuff going on.
But, anywho, I still love this series and will continue on.
February 17, 2019
3 Stars
Well, this one was a bit more seriouse than the other previous ones. In this one there isn’t so much of Dex’s sense of humor, of course it was understandable with what Dex was going through but still I didn’t like that. The other thing that bothered me so much was And another thing was Sloane did what he did in all other books, AGAIN!!!! This was seventh book and you did that! With all his reasons still it wasn’t acceptable! I don’t know how Dex could trust him! Told in dual POV, 3rd person. It’s the seventh installment in the "THIRDS" series and should be read in order. Overall, it was an okay read and hope you enjoy it more than me!
Well, this one was a bit more seriouse than the other previous ones. In this one there isn’t so much of Dex’s sense of humor, of course it was understandable with what Dex was going through but still I didn’t like that. The other thing that bothered me so much was And another thing was Sloane did what he did in all other books, AGAIN!!!! This was seventh book and you did that! With all his reasons still it wasn’t acceptable! I don’t know how Dex could trust him! Told in dual POV, 3rd person. It’s the seventh installment in the "THIRDS" series and should be read in order. Overall, it was an okay read and hope you enjoy it more than me!
November 5, 2016
Back to the great books I'm used to from Charlie Cochet!
After being very disappointed with Book Six: Catch a Tiger by the Tail (see my review), I was very please that Smoke & Mirrors was back to the excellent story telling I've come to expect from Charlie Cochet. If you've read Book Six you probably remember it ended with a cliffhanger. Smoke and Mirrors begins when Catch a Tiger left off, with Dex a prisoner being interrogated. He keeps being asked just one question, "Where did his mother hide the file?" Of course Dex has no clue what "file" they are asking about. During his interrogation and eventual torture, he learns what he has always suspected, his parents death was no accident.
After his escape, Dex and Sloane set off to discover the truth about John and Gina Daley's murder. But things are changing. Their relationship. Their team. Their jobs. Their friends. But most of all, Dex is changing!
First the good. The plot is excellent. The drama and tension starts building right from chapter one. There is really never a let up in that slowly building tension. The relationships between the characters continue to develop and strengthen. This lead me to become more and more attached to the characters than I had before. The sexual encounters between Dex and Sloane were exciting and well written. The conclusion was rewarding and exciting because it provides the possibility for more THIRDS books or another series.
The bad, personally I love the gay male characters. They are strong gay male role models. They work in a difficult job and perform above and beyond expectations. But then so often you find them with their heads on someone's shoulder crying. It seems like such a contradiction. For example, could you see Dwayne Johnson putting his head on Vin Diesel's shoulder and having a good cry? Yeah, I didn't thing so. Do I think it could happen? Sure under the right circumstances. I just think it happens way too often in the book. As flaws go, it's easily overlooked.
Great book and great series!
April 1, 2018
That's me in the corner
That's me in the box of shame
Saying, it's ME not the BOOK.
4 stars for the Audiobook
2.5 stars for the story
The Good
-Dex and Sloane together, they are an amazing couple.
-The banter between the characters was still there but in small doses .
-The Sex was hot.
-Ash, he was the best part of this book, I love him and Cael.
-Maddox what an amazing Dad.
The Bad
-The Batman storyline. Dex turned into a brooding Bruce Wayne. And lost his charming funny self.
-This book reminded me of all the Tv Series that lost plot, True blood, Vampire diaries where almost everyone turned into a wolf or a vampire. Ugh! And I hate to say Cut and Run when Super Nick was made to shine and Ty & Zane left in the background. Here Dex was made into Super Dex, Sloane and other Team members took a back-seat that pissed me off. Dex fighting off Sloane and six Therians.
This especially Really? Like Really?
The Ugly
-Spark appearing at a convenient time, giving half-truths and then being forgiven by Dex just like that?
-The TIN thing is just fucking ridiculous.
I don't think i will read book 8, just going straight to Seb and Hudson story.
That's me in the box of shame
Saying, it's ME not the BOOK.
4 stars for the Audiobook
2.5 stars for the story
The Good
-Dex and Sloane together, they are an amazing couple.
-The banter between the characters was still there but in small doses .
-The Sex was hot.
-Ash, he was the best part of this book, I love him and Cael.
-Maddox what an amazing Dad.
The Bad
-The Batman storyline. Dex turned into a brooding Bruce Wayne. And lost his charming funny self.
-This book reminded me of all the Tv Series that lost plot, True blood, Vampire diaries where almost everyone turned into a wolf or a vampire. Ugh! And I hate to say Cut and Run when Super Nick was made to shine and Ty & Zane left in the background. Here Dex was made into Super Dex, Sloane and other Team members took a back-seat that pissed me off. Dex fighting off Sloane and six Therians.
This especially Really? Like Really?
The Ugly
-Spark appearing at a convenient time, giving half-truths and then being forgiven by Dex just like that?
-The TIN thing is just fucking ridiculous.
I don't think i will read book 8, just going straight to Seb and Hudson story.
February 8, 2017
In the seventh installment of the THIRDS series we get a lot of answers to a lot of question. There’s so many interesting informations and moments to talk about, but then again, it’s very easy to spoil anything. One thing’s for sure, there’s an exciting change coming.
When Dex is interrogated by a lethal Therian, he learns that his parents were deliberately killed. The truth hits him quite hard and, as if this wasn’t bad enough, there has been something inexplicable happening to him. Also, with all the crazy series of events going on, him and Sloane have to deal with some serious ups and downs in their relationship.
I'm your home.
This book feels way more domestic than all the previous ones, which I think is nice and sweet in a way. I loved the gritty beginning and I gobbled up the hurt/comfort as well as the hot sexy times. I enjoyed myself immensely with the interactions, closeness between Sloane, Dex and their family and teammates. More importantly, I adored the little plot twists through the whole story. I’m really happy with how things turned out and I certainly can’t wait for more.
Now excuse me while I go read this all over again because I already miss everyone.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Expected publication: July 2016 + a cliffhanger *sniffles*
January 17, 2022
Reread via audio January 2022 = Narration = ***3.5 - 4 Stars***
**********************
Original review July 2016:
5 If-I-could-give-more-I-would-do-it stars
How Charlie Cochet is not only able to keep the standard of this series, but to set it even higher, especially after all this time, is beyond me. But she did it.
I will tell you a not-so-secret secret... I'm a bit obsessed with this series. Just a little bit. Well, more than a little bit. Okaaayyyyy, I'm totally obsessed with it. ;-) I love every single book of this series and gave all of them 5 stars. I've read the books multiple times, I devour the THIRDS Thursdays every week and there is even a self-made calendar on my wall with pictures of the character inspirations. For me, Smoke & Mirrors is the best book and my favorite so far.
I love Dex & Sloane. They are my favorite couple in the THIRDS series and you can imagine that I suffered vicariously with both of them throughout this book. Dex has been kidnapped at the end of Catch a Tiger by the Tail and at the beginning of Smoke & Mirrors you find him in the hands of his kidnapper. The whole situation was really a bit gut-wrenching and hard to take. I've already read this as a teaser a while ago, at least a part of it, but believe me, it was not easier the second time...
What he has to endure during his kidnapping and what he learns from his kidnapper about his own past has some major effects not only on him, but also on Sloane and their relationship. Both of them have to struggle to cope with these repercussions: Dex with the knowledge about the murder of his parents and his health situation and Sloane with the protective instinct of his feral half which is wound up to a high pitch with the want to protect his mate. That their own boss is keeping secrets and withhelds major information does not help their situation either.
I love the direction Charlie takes us with the sequence of events. The chance to see more of Dex & Sloane in the future, even though in a slightly different role, the changes that took place in Dex, his “new self”...
All of this makes me want to beg Charlie to hurry up, because I can hardly wait to read more about it. But for now, I'm really looking forward to read Seb and Hudson's book which comes next.
**********************
Original review July 2016:
5 If-I-could-give-more-I-would-do-it stars
How Charlie Cochet is not only able to keep the standard of this series, but to set it even higher, especially after all this time, is beyond me. But she did it.
I will tell you a not-so-secret secret... I'm a bit obsessed with this series. Just a little bit. Well, more than a little bit. Okaaayyyyy, I'm totally obsessed with it. ;-) I love every single book of this series and gave all of them 5 stars. I've read the books multiple times, I devour the THIRDS Thursdays every week and there is even a self-made calendar on my wall with pictures of the character inspirations. For me, Smoke & Mirrors is the best book and my favorite so far.
I love Dex & Sloane. They are my favorite couple in the THIRDS series and you can imagine that I suffered vicariously with both of them throughout this book. Dex has been kidnapped at the end of Catch a Tiger by the Tail and at the beginning of Smoke & Mirrors you find him in the hands of his kidnapper. The whole situation was really a bit gut-wrenching and hard to take. I've already read this as a teaser a while ago, at least a part of it, but believe me, it was not easier the second time...
What he has to endure during his kidnapping and what he learns from his kidnapper about his own past has some major effects not only on him, but also on Sloane and their relationship. Both of them have to struggle to cope with these repercussions: Dex with the knowledge about the murder of his parents and his health situation and Sloane with the protective instinct of his feral half which is wound up to a high pitch with the want to protect his mate. That their own boss is keeping secrets and withhelds major information does not help their situation either.
I love the direction Charlie takes us with the sequence of events. The chance to see more of Dex & Sloane in the future, even though in a slightly different role, the changes that took place in Dex, his “new self”...
All of this makes me want to beg Charlie to hurry up, because I can hardly wait to read more about it. But for now, I'm really looking forward to read Seb and Hudson's book which comes next.
February 17, 2019
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one, especially after the cliffhanger we were left with.
I didn't know which direction this book would go and I have to say I'm quite happy with how everything turned out, although I am a bit worried, that Dex and Sloan's journey will take them away from friends and family. I just hope this is not the direction the author will take it.
I won't be able to say too much, since I don't want to spoiler anything.
The book begins with Dex's kidnapping (which is not a spoiler, since it was in the last book). This was very hard on Dex (and me).
After Dex gets back it's starts getting obvious, that something is very wrong with him.
I really liked the mystery element in this one. This book goes back to the murder of Dex's parents and what was really going on at the time. Those of you who have read "Thirds, beyond the books", already know a bit more about his parents and what they were about. The storyline also focuses on the mating bond between Dex and Sloan, and how deep it goes. It was very sweet. Those two are falling more and more in love each day...
What also surprised me, were the very hot scenes between Sloane and Dex...damn
To make a long story short, this book had a lot of things I liked. It had some sadness, some anger, mystery, suspense, hotness, a lot of love, family, friends and of course some laughs.
With everything that was going on, Dex wasn't always his usual funny self, but he still made me laugh plenty of times.
I've said it before and I will say it again...I can't wait for Hudson's book...I really love his British ass !!
5 stars from me and I can't wait to find out what else is gonna happen to this team badasses!
July 26, 2016
RATING CHANGE!
3.5 Stars!
The more I think about it, the more some stuff bugged me. It was sort of nice to go back to Dex and Sloane I guess. But as much as I love all of these guys, I think I am getting a little burned out on the continuing plot.
A few times I found myself a little on the bored side, despite the fact that this one was pretty action packed.
I also found some of the interactions between Dex and Sloane to be a little on the cheesy side. Especially the .
I am curious to read about some of the other characters, specifically Seb and Hudson. I am hoping they are next.
But I do have to wonder, how long can this series possibly go on?? With virtually the same plot carrying forward. At least in Cut & Run the plot and scenery changed every book.
I know it seems like I didn't like it. I did. Maybe I just wasn't in the ride mood? Plus the chapters in this series are long....which makes me grumpy! :P
3.5 Stars!
The more I think about it, the more some stuff bugged me. It was sort of nice to go back to Dex and Sloane I guess. But as much as I love all of these guys, I think I am getting a little burned out on the continuing plot.
A few times I found myself a little on the bored side, despite the fact that this one was pretty action packed.
I also found some of the interactions between Dex and Sloane to be a little on the cheesy side. Especially the .
I am curious to read about some of the other characters, specifically Seb and Hudson. I am hoping they are next.
But I do have to wonder, how long can this series possibly go on?? With virtually the same plot carrying forward. At least in Cut & Run the plot and scenery changed every book.
I know it seems like I didn't like it. I did. Maybe I just wasn't in the ride mood? Plus the chapters in this series are long....which makes me grumpy! :P
November 26, 2019
I am so conflicted about this one. The first 50% I was not a happy camper, and by 55% I was growling like a Therian. So why is it that when I finished the book at 2 a.m., I had a big smile on my face.
Yea, I liked it!
Yea, I liked it!
June 11, 2016
4.5 Stars
Series note: Smoke & Mirrors is not a stand alone novel. At all. Not only are the MC's a well established couple at this point in the series, the overall story arc spans all of the books. So, if you are new to this series, start with Hell & High Water.
Ok, now to the good stuff!
Smoke & Mirrors is the 7th book in Charlie Cochet's THIRDS series. It's been such a fantastic ride getting here and I think this might be my favorite book, so far. Fans of the series won't be disappointed.
The story hits the ground, running, with Dex waking up tied to a chair. And if you've read Catch a Tiger by the Tail, then you know his predicament is not the sexy kind. Nope. Dex has been kidnapped, by FSM knows whom, and they seem intent on doing him a fair amount of harm. And it all comes back to Dex's parents who were killed more than 30 years ago.
There certainly is a lot of action on this book, and I can tell that we're nearing the end of the main series. More conspiracies are uncovered and Dex is right smack in the middle of all of it. As usual. Finding out about his parents, and mother specifically, and how they were connected to everything happening now is a lot for Dex to take in. And not just for him. It hits Sloane pretty hard, too, and for a few minutes there, I kind of worried for my favorite THIRDS couple. But no, the worry was unfounded. It was just Sloane being a bonehead. But they both come through that even stronger than before.
I can't say much else about the story without SPOILERS, and I don't want to do that to any of you. I will say that I love where Smoke & Mirrors took me. And I love where it took Dex...and I think we haven't seen everything, yet! And, although, Smoke & Mirrors doesn't end on a cliffhanger, like Catch a Tiger by the Tail did, waiting for book 8 might just kill me. But lets hope not, because I want Seb and Hudson's HEA (at last!) and then, finally, I want to see how this amazing journey ends.
-------------------
ARC of Smoke & Mirrors was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Series note: Smoke & Mirrors is not a stand alone novel. At all. Not only are the MC's a well established couple at this point in the series, the overall story arc spans all of the books. So, if you are new to this series, start with Hell & High Water.
Ok, now to the good stuff!
Smoke & Mirrors is the 7th book in Charlie Cochet's THIRDS series. It's been such a fantastic ride getting here and I think this might be my favorite book, so far. Fans of the series won't be disappointed.
The story hits the ground, running, with Dex waking up tied to a chair. And if you've read Catch a Tiger by the Tail, then you know his predicament is not the sexy kind. Nope. Dex has been kidnapped, by FSM knows whom, and they seem intent on doing him a fair amount of harm. And it all comes back to Dex's parents who were killed more than 30 years ago.
There certainly is a lot of action on this book, and I can tell that we're nearing the end of the main series. More conspiracies are uncovered and Dex is right smack in the middle of all of it. As usual. Finding out about his parents, and mother specifically, and how they were connected to everything happening now is a lot for Dex to take in. And not just for him. It hits Sloane pretty hard, too, and for a few minutes there, I kind of worried for my favorite THIRDS couple. But no, the worry was unfounded. It was just Sloane being a bonehead. But they both come through that even stronger than before.
I can't say much else about the story without SPOILERS, and I don't want to do that to any of you. I will say that I love where Smoke & Mirrors took me. And I love where it took Dex...and I think we haven't seen everything, yet! And, although, Smoke & Mirrors doesn't end on a cliffhanger, like Catch a Tiger by the Tail did, waiting for book 8 might just kill me. But lets hope not, because I want Seb and Hudson's HEA (at last!) and then, finally, I want to see how this amazing journey ends.
-------------------
ARC of Smoke & Mirrors was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2024
5 Stars!!
Whew!
Well with an ending like that, Cochet hopefully guarantees us with infinite stories of this duo and their extended family and all the adventures they are inevitably going to have. Props to the brilliant set up ensuring that this can indeed go on forever. If only, right?
I admit, my love for the relationship between Dex and Sloane grew slowly, just like it did between them, and once they proclaimed their devotion, that’s when I was totally caught. The connection, the intimacy, the blatant need for each other, just simply did it for me.
However, nothing comes easily for these two. Throughout this series, the struggle for peace between humans and the shifter populations of Therians is what drives the plot every time, and of course Dex and Sloane get caught in the crosshairs. Harsh truths come to light here, threatening them professionally and definitely, personally - all of which leave many unanswered questions. They must be a strong front together as a new evolution (figuratively and literally) is uncovered.
So to hammer the point again, the intensity between these two appealed to every reason why I love romance. This is some hardcore shifter possession and obsession, making me want all the couples to mark each other up and bask in their bond. However, this series has always been about Dex and Sloane and that’s where it definitely shines, and why they now reside on my short list of favorite m/m couples.
Thus, 5 big stars for the entire series as a whole, which in its entirety is quite the awesome saga. I’ve got to hand it to Cochet - she deftly brings some of the best humor and angsty feels I’ve read to date, making this a standout creation!!
Whew!
Well with an ending like that, Cochet hopefully guarantees us with infinite stories of this duo and their extended family and all the adventures they are inevitably going to have. Props to the brilliant set up ensuring that this can indeed go on forever. If only, right?
I admit, my love for the relationship between Dex and Sloane grew slowly, just like it did between them, and once they proclaimed their devotion, that’s when I was totally caught. The connection, the intimacy, the blatant need for each other, just simply did it for me.
However, nothing comes easily for these two. Throughout this series, the struggle for peace between humans and the shifter populations of Therians is what drives the plot every time, and of course Dex and Sloane get caught in the crosshairs. Harsh truths come to light here, threatening them professionally and definitely, personally - all of which leave many unanswered questions. They must be a strong front together as a new evolution (figuratively and literally) is uncovered.
So to hammer the point again, the intensity between these two appealed to every reason why I love romance. This is some hardcore shifter possession and obsession, making me want all the couples to mark each other up and bask in their bond. However, this series has always been about Dex and Sloane and that’s where it definitely shines, and why they now reside on my short list of favorite m/m couples.
Thus, 5 big stars for the entire series as a whole, which in its entirety is quite the awesome saga. I’ve got to hand it to Cochet - she deftly brings some of the best humor and angsty feels I’ve read to date, making this a standout creation!!
March 1, 2019
Re-read March 2019
I'm finally caught up on the series. Now I can read the books I haven't read before.
------------------------------------------------
Action packed, lots of character development, lots of sweet times between Dex and Sloane, more angst than we’re used to, and a lot of crazy new developments.
I’m glad I read all 7 books in a row, otherwise I would never have been able to get all the facts straight.
I really liked this one. Although the spy stuff was a little OTT for me. I mean, EVERYONE is a spy, and no one could be trusted.
Still, we got a lot of Dex and Sloane relationship time and that was awesome.
I'm finally caught up on the series. Now I can read the books I haven't read before.
------------------------------------------------
Action packed, lots of character development, lots of sweet times between Dex and Sloane, more angst than we’re used to, and a lot of crazy new developments.
I’m glad I read all 7 books in a row, otherwise I would never have been able to get all the facts straight.
I really liked this one. Although the spy stuff was a little OTT for me. I mean, EVERYONE is a spy, and no one could be trusted.
Still, we got a lot of Dex and Sloane relationship time and that was awesome.
June 30, 2016
Holy crap!!! If you love THIRDS you need to read this book...
So first he did...and then that happened...while they went...and then someone said...and they found...and he was...while no one knew...then they discovered...and he took...and that made him so angry that he...and everyone was...while he was so hurt and couldn't...and they all had to...silly kitten, of course I'm not really going to tell you what happened, where's the fun in that...but...
I will tell you how amazing this book was and that if you want to read this one and truly appreciate how awesome it is in the scheme of things you absolutely have to read the first 6 books in this series there's just no other way to do it...ok, there are the audio books but still it's the same end result. No matter how you look at it, 'Smoke & Mirrors' is not a standalone story. What it really is, is the story that fills in a lot of the blanks. It's the missing link so to speak.
If you happened to read my review of the last book 'Catch a Tiger by the Tail' or probably that of more than a few other people who read book 6 in this series than you know we were left hanging onto one hella' scary cliff by our fingertips. Thankfully Ms Cochet picked up with this book right where 'Catch a Tiger by the Tail' left off but where she took us from there was on an incredible journey of adventure and discovery.
Throughout this series there have been so many questions that have been leading to this story. Questions about Dex's parents, about the first gen recruitment center, the recruits themselves and first gen purebred Therians, etc., etc. and while I'm sure we by no means have all the answers 'Smoke & Mirrors' definitely took a huge step in the direction of giving us answers, but, not all of these answers were easy for our MCs to deal with. Boundaries were pushed, relationships were tested, things weren't always what they appeared to be and when everything was said and done some things were never going to be the same again. But different is a word with a very fluid meaning. It can mean different as in for the worse or different for the better or maybe, just different as in not the same as it was.
I have enjoyed this series so much each book has been a fantastic story filled with mystery, suspense, adventure, love and passion making it really hard for me to choose a favorite. I do however, feel that 'Smoke & Mirrors' has become one of the most integral books in the series because of all the connections from the past and going forward that it brings together. For me this book feels like a turning point in this series and while I'm not exactly sure what direction Ms Cochet is going to take the series in I do know I'm definitely going to follow.
*************************
An ARC of Smoke & Mirrors was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
So first he did...and then that happened...while they went...and then someone said...and they found...and he was...while no one knew...then they discovered...and he took...and that made him so angry that he...and everyone was...while he was so hurt and couldn't...and they all had to...silly kitten, of course I'm not really going to tell you what happened, where's the fun in that...but...
I will tell you how amazing this book was and that if you want to read this one and truly appreciate how awesome it is in the scheme of things you absolutely have to read the first 6 books in this series there's just no other way to do it...ok, there are the audio books but still it's the same end result. No matter how you look at it, 'Smoke & Mirrors' is not a standalone story. What it really is, is the story that fills in a lot of the blanks. It's the missing link so to speak.
If you happened to read my review of the last book 'Catch a Tiger by the Tail' or probably that of more than a few other people who read book 6 in this series than you know we were left hanging onto one hella' scary cliff by our fingertips. Thankfully Ms Cochet picked up with this book right where 'Catch a Tiger by the Tail' left off but where she took us from there was on an incredible journey of adventure and discovery.
Throughout this series there have been so many questions that have been leading to this story. Questions about Dex's parents, about the first gen recruitment center, the recruits themselves and first gen purebred Therians, etc., etc. and while I'm sure we by no means have all the answers 'Smoke & Mirrors' definitely took a huge step in the direction of giving us answers, but, not all of these answers were easy for our MCs to deal with. Boundaries were pushed, relationships were tested, things weren't always what they appeared to be and when everything was said and done some things were never going to be the same again. But different is a word with a very fluid meaning. It can mean different as in for the worse or different for the better or maybe, just different as in not the same as it was.
I have enjoyed this series so much each book has been a fantastic story filled with mystery, suspense, adventure, love and passion making it really hard for me to choose a favorite. I do however, feel that 'Smoke & Mirrors' has become one of the most integral books in the series because of all the connections from the past and going forward that it brings together. For me this book feels like a turning point in this series and while I'm not exactly sure what direction Ms Cochet is going to take the series in I do know I'm definitely going to follow.
*************************
An ARC of Smoke & Mirrors was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2017
This series is starting to feel... blah. I dunno if this one just didn't have as much action, or had too much "feelings" and crying and emotional stuff, but it felt like, I dunno... less like men fighting side by side against bad guys and being naughty in the bedroom, and more like a girly romance novel/chick lit that just happened to have male protagonists. This is an issue I find that I have with so many of the female MM authors. It starts to feel like it's more aimed at female readers and less at the actual gay male readers. No offense intended to female MM readers or female MM authors... just hard to know how to accurately write something you'll never really get firsthand experience in ALL the time.
Sorry about the rant. This one wasn't BAD per se, just kinda boring.
Sorry about the rant. This one wasn't BAD per se, just kinda boring.
September 8, 2022
4.75***** stars
Huh… that episode left me a little speechless, to be honest -- *phew what a ride!! The whole mark/mate issue. All the secrets that have been revealed in this one, all the developments. Holy moly.
In this book I also fell a little more in love with Maddock. What a wonderful and devoted father he is to Dex and Cael. I love how he gives everything for his sons and always puts them first!! ♡
And omg, that tape 😭😭😭
And of course, whenever Dex is the star of the show the whole book is also funny af -- I loved being back in their POV.
I wanted to complain a few times during the series that the sexy times between Sloane and Dex on page gotten less and less but Charlie Cochet made up for it in this book. And girl, did she ever! *lolll
Again, what a ride!! And so much drama, so much heartache. So delicious. So entertaining. So captivating. So thrilling.
************
All my reviews for the THIRDS series:
Book #1 - Hell & High Water - 4.25 stars
Book #2 - Blood & Thunder - 4.5 stars
Book #3 - Rack & Ruin - 4.5 stars
Book #4 - Rise & Fall - 4.5 stars
Book #5 - Against the Grain - 4 stars
Book #6 - Catch a Tiger by the Tail - 4.25 stars
Book #7 - Smoke & Mirrors 4.75 stars
Book #8 - Thick & Thin (novella) - 4.25 stars
Book #9 - Darkest Hour Before Dawn - 4.5 stars
Book #9.5 - Gummy Bears & Grenades (novella) - 4.5 stars
Book #10 - Tried & True - 4.75 stars
Huh… that episode left me a little speechless, to be honest -- *phew what a ride!! The whole mark/mate issue. All the secrets that have been revealed in this one, all the developments. Holy moly.
In this book I also fell a little more in love with Maddock. What a wonderful and devoted father he is to Dex and Cael. I love how he gives everything for his sons and always puts them first!! ♡
And omg, that tape 😭😭😭
„Find Sloane Brodie. […] He’ll need you. […]“
And of course, whenever Dex is the star of the show the whole book is also funny af -- I loved being back in their POV.
I wanted to complain a few times during the series that the sexy times between Sloane and Dex on page gotten less and less but Charlie Cochet made up for it in this book. And girl, did she ever! *lolll
Again, what a ride!! And so much drama, so much heartache. So delicious. So entertaining. So captivating. So thrilling.
************
All my reviews for the THIRDS series:
Book #1 - Hell & High Water - 4.25 stars
Book #2 - Blood & Thunder - 4.5 stars
Book #3 - Rack & Ruin - 4.5 stars
Book #4 - Rise & Fall - 4.5 stars
Book #5 - Against the Grain - 4 stars
Book #6 - Catch a Tiger by the Tail - 4.25 stars
Book #7 - Smoke & Mirrors 4.75 stars
Book #8 - Thick & Thin (novella) - 4.25 stars
Book #9 - Darkest Hour Before Dawn - 4.5 stars
Book #9.5 - Gummy Bears & Grenades (novella) - 4.5 stars
Book #10 - Tried & True - 4.75 stars
December 24, 2023
Another five star book in this series! I was a little bummed when I started that we weren't getting Seb & Hudson's book yet and instead another Dex & Sloane book, but this ended up being so good and hard to put down. Very intense and action packed. Such a good read & good series!
April 11, 2019
This series just gets better, I absolutely loved this one. Tony, you sneaky devil, you! 😈
I'm 5 starring this even though Sloan was a bloody idiot at times.
I'm 5 starring this even though Sloan was a bloody idiot at times.
September 8, 2018
I can't get enough of this series! I usually don't like re-reads but I can totally see myself reading this again in the near future! On to the next book.
June 11, 2016
THIRDS fans won't be disappointed with Book 7. I've been waiting for this one since Ms. Cochet left us with a cliffhanger in the last book. And coming back to my favorite couple makes me giddy.
The opening of the book is a little hard to take. Dex is kidnapped, which we knew from how the last book ended, but what happened during this time is a little hard to experience with him. What becomes even more obvious throughout this book, beginning with his kidnapping, is that something is up with Dex. Something is changing within him.
What I loved about this installment is that there are a lot of questions answered from the sketchy pasts of several characters. Dex and Sloane may be more connected than they've ever realized, and Seb and Hudson may finally be making some progress.
What I'm NOT entirely enjoying is the continued plot with the TIN. This "secretive" group that no one besides Dex and Sloan know about are dragging them further and further away from their friends and family. I'm not a fan.
I overall enjoyed this next installment, specifically being able to come back to Dex and Sloane, and I can't wait to continue the journey!
The opening of the book is a little hard to take. Dex is kidnapped, which we knew from how the last book ended, but what happened during this time is a little hard to experience with him. What becomes even more obvious throughout this book, beginning with his kidnapping, is that something is up with Dex. Something is changing within him.
What I loved about this installment is that there are a lot of questions answered from the sketchy pasts of several characters. Dex and Sloane may be more connected than they've ever realized, and Seb and Hudson may finally be making some progress.
What I'm NOT entirely enjoying is the continued plot with the TIN. This "secretive" group that no one besides Dex and Sloan know about are dragging them further and further away from their friends and family. I'm not a fan.
I overall enjoyed this next installment, specifically being able to come back to Dex and Sloane, and I can't wait to continue the journey!
April 15, 2025
5th re-read April 2025
_______________
I absolutely adore Dex!
_______________
I absolutely adore Dex!
August 20, 2018
I am loving this series so much. I’ll be sad when I get to the end. Dex is still as amazing as ever. And I really love Sloane too. He does something really stupid in this book but it’s not unforgivable. The secondary characters add so much to this series. Can’t wait to see what comes next.
July 8, 2016
Review originally posted at Sinfully.
4.5 stars
If you’ve read this far in the THIRDS series, I’m not going to need to convince you to pick this book up. This is a series that must be read in order however, so if you’re new to the THIRDS world, please start with Book 1, Hell & High Water. While the story is really focused on Dex and Sloane, there is a lot that goes on in this seventh installment. Old questions are finally answered as new ones are raised and there are plenty of relationship issues, both old and new that arise and need to be addressed.
It starts off right where Catch a Tiger by the Tail left off. Dex has been abducted from his home and is in the hands of a new player to the series, the dangerous yet charming Wolf. Let me tell you, the tension in this scene leapt off the page, but it was definitely hard to take as Dex is interrogated and tortured. I was squirming in my seat with some of what he endured. This is only the start of the story however, and what follows as Dex and the team look into his parents’ deaths all those years ago is like pulling one thread on a sweater that starts to unravel threads you didn’t realize were even connected.
Dex isn’t the only one who suffers from the strain and emotional fallout of the investigation. Dex and Sloane’s relationship is really tested in this book. As much as they love each other and learned how the other deals with difficult situations, the ups and downs are huge and old habits still die hard. At one point I was so disappointed in Sloane’s actions, it was almost like he had regressed back to the first book and my heart hurt for Dex (let me put it this way, Ash was the relationship voice of reason here). But of course this would not be THIRDS without Dex and Sloane and in the end we are left with no question that they are it for each other through the good and the bad and the different. If you’ve been paying attention in the last few books you probably have your theory as to what the different is, and rest assured Charlie Cochet will reveal whether you are right or wrong.
It’s not all upheaval and excitement and death (yes I said death). Dex is traumatized and Sloane and his family step up and really support him. There is a lot of quiet, comfort time along with the sexy times between Dex and Sloane. Ash, Cael and Hudson play a big part in Dex’s recovery as well and everyone else we’ve met along the way is represented. I love the family bond between Dex, Cael and Tony, who is having his own difficulties with what is being revealed and what has been kept from him. It’s all the ways that the men and team have formed a family unit that is the real strength of these books.
This book was a turning point in more than one story arc and although I now have more information and background, I still don’t like or trust Sparks or TIN’s questionable behaviors. The more the team seems to find out, the more questions are raised. We were teased that “change is coming” and it does here in more than one way. Things do change both personally and professionally for Dex and Sloane. I’m not going to spoil anything here beyond the already scheduled remaining THIRDS books so if you’re interested in where the future of the THIRDS world is headed beyond that (Seb &Hudson are up next then more Dex & Sloane!), check out Charlie Cochet’s website.
This was another fabulous entry in the series, which in my opinion has not had a misstep yet. It has everything I’ve come to expect from the series; romance, suspense, action, secrets, heartache, bar fights and wiseass remarks. THIRDS fans will devour it and discuss it as the dreaded wait begins once again. Unlike the last book, there is no cliffhanger, yet 2017 feels so far away right now.
4.5 stars
If you’ve read this far in the THIRDS series, I’m not going to need to convince you to pick this book up. This is a series that must be read in order however, so if you’re new to the THIRDS world, please start with Book 1, Hell & High Water. While the story is really focused on Dex and Sloane, there is a lot that goes on in this seventh installment. Old questions are finally answered as new ones are raised and there are plenty of relationship issues, both old and new that arise and need to be addressed.
It starts off right where Catch a Tiger by the Tail left off. Dex has been abducted from his home and is in the hands of a new player to the series, the dangerous yet charming Wolf. Let me tell you, the tension in this scene leapt off the page, but it was definitely hard to take as Dex is interrogated and tortured. I was squirming in my seat with some of what he endured. This is only the start of the story however, and what follows as Dex and the team look into his parents’ deaths all those years ago is like pulling one thread on a sweater that starts to unravel threads you didn’t realize were even connected.
Dex isn’t the only one who suffers from the strain and emotional fallout of the investigation. Dex and Sloane’s relationship is really tested in this book. As much as they love each other and learned how the other deals with difficult situations, the ups and downs are huge and old habits still die hard. At one point I was so disappointed in Sloane’s actions, it was almost like he had regressed back to the first book and my heart hurt for Dex (let me put it this way, Ash was the relationship voice of reason here). But of course this would not be THIRDS without Dex and Sloane and in the end we are left with no question that they are it for each other through the good and the bad and the different. If you’ve been paying attention in the last few books you probably have your theory as to what the different is, and rest assured Charlie Cochet will reveal whether you are right or wrong.
It’s not all upheaval and excitement and death (yes I said death). Dex is traumatized and Sloane and his family step up and really support him. There is a lot of quiet, comfort time along with the sexy times between Dex and Sloane. Ash, Cael and Hudson play a big part in Dex’s recovery as well and everyone else we’ve met along the way is represented. I love the family bond between Dex, Cael and Tony, who is having his own difficulties with what is being revealed and what has been kept from him. It’s all the ways that the men and team have formed a family unit that is the real strength of these books.
This book was a turning point in more than one story arc and although I now have more information and background, I still don’t like or trust Sparks or TIN’s questionable behaviors. The more the team seems to find out, the more questions are raised. We were teased that “change is coming” and it does here in more than one way. Things do change both personally and professionally for Dex and Sloane. I’m not going to spoil anything here beyond the already scheduled remaining THIRDS books so if you’re interested in where the future of the THIRDS world is headed beyond that (Seb &Hudson are up next then more Dex & Sloane!), check out Charlie Cochet’s website.
This was another fabulous entry in the series, which in my opinion has not had a misstep yet. It has everything I’ve come to expect from the series; romance, suspense, action, secrets, heartache, bar fights and wiseass remarks. THIRDS fans will devour it and discuss it as the dreaded wait begins once again. Unlike the last book, there is no cliffhanger, yet 2017 feels so far away right now.
July 31, 2020
I'm running out of superlatives for these books.
My heart was thumping throughout as the tensions built up and up and more secrets came flying out!
Loved it.
My heart was thumping throughout as the tensions built up and up and more secrets came flying out!
Loved it.
November 13, 2019
I’m so glad I stuck with this series and these guys. I couldn’t put this book down.
Now I didn’t like everything but it was addictive reading.
Now I didn’t like everything but it was addictive reading.
May 5, 2018
3 stars! I know I'm lowering the rating on this one despite it being universally liked. But there were several issues in this book for me that were not consistent with the rest of the series and therefore I liked the book, but not as much as some of the others.
So the book begins where it had left off, with Dex waking up to his abductor and being tortured for some information that we readers are also clueless about. He manages to escape despite his injuries and then the strangest things start to happen to him while recuperating from this traumatic experience which are also a result of his having been marked by Sloane. There are some amazingly hot sexy-cutesy-adorable scenes 🔥💕during this phase, but I feel that Dex has changed somehow and the humor was missing. 😢. On top of that while investigating events from the past to find out more about his parents death, they stumble upon some unverifiable facts that Sloane over-reacts to and suddenly does an about-face. . It was just very annoying to see such behavior from a character we have been rooting for and have had empathy for. The melodrama ended soon enough, but not without arousing more interest in the whole getting marked thing, as well as what that secret information was that resulted in Dex's parents' death. Coincidentally it all tied up to the same source and connected everything which was a little too convenient for my liking.. but then was I really looking for a reasoning? After all I am reading a book about shape-shifters and what-not.. 🙄.. Anyway..... I missed the team interactions and their solving cases together; Sparks cageyness annoyed the heck out of me; . What I missed the most was the humor.. there was little to no humor in this book, I get that it was darker story.. but there were too many tangent storylines going at the same time that were hurriedly tied together for an HFN ending. The book was saved by the supporting characters.. mainly Ash, Seb and Hudson.
So the book begins where it had left off, with Dex waking up to his abductor and being tortured for some information that we readers are also clueless about. He manages to escape despite his injuries and then the strangest things start to happen to him while recuperating from this traumatic experience which are also a result of his having been marked by Sloane. There are some amazingly hot sexy-cutesy-adorable scenes 🔥💕during this phase, but I feel that Dex has changed somehow and the humor was missing. 😢. On top of that while investigating events from the past to find out more about his parents death, they stumble upon some unverifiable facts that Sloane over-reacts to and suddenly does an about-face. . It was just very annoying to see such behavior from a character we have been rooting for and have had empathy for. The melodrama ended soon enough, but not without arousing more interest in the whole getting marked thing, as well as what that secret information was that resulted in Dex's parents' death. Coincidentally it all tied up to the same source and connected everything which was a little too convenient for my liking.. but then was I really looking for a reasoning? After all I am reading a book about shape-shifters and what-not.. 🙄.. Anyway..... I missed the team interactions and their solving cases together; Sparks cageyness annoyed the heck out of me; . What I missed the most was the humor.. there was little to no humor in this book, I get that it was darker story.. but there were too many tangent storylines going at the same time that were hurriedly tied together for an HFN ending. The book was saved by the supporting characters.. mainly Ash, Seb and Hudson.
July 8, 2016
The seventh installment in the THIRDS series holds the answer to every question I've had about some aspects of the story since book one. It leaves no stone unturned, it's an emotional roller coaster, painful, funny, and brilliant. Needless to say, Smoke & Mirrors exceeded my expectations by far!
Since we were left with a cliffhanger at the end of Catch a Tiger by the Tail, this book starts where the other left off. The first chapter is intense, and I was so so angry with Dex's captor that I just wanted to put my hands through my Kindle and strangle the bastard. But at the same time, Dex made me prouder than ever. I adore that man!
And then things just continue to get worse from there, and you'll constantly feel the need to hug Sloane, Cael and Tony, and your heart will break a million times over. Fear not, though. I've said this before and I'll say it again: Charlie always finds the opportune moment to write a hilarious scene right when you think you can't take the agony of your babies suffering anymore. And she gets mad props from me for that.
There's a lot of things I loved about this book. I was happy to see Dex and Sloane's relationship moving to the next level, growing stronger than ever, their bond solid and unbreakable. I was mesmerized by Ash, who stood by Cael's side unconditionally, never asking questions, always offering support and love. Then there were Seb and Hudson, ripping my soul to shreds, and I seriously need their book, because I want them to be happy. What's more, Tony proved throughout this entire book that he's a remarkable father, who gave his sons the chance to have a beautiful family.
I can't go into much more without giving away spoilers, which I don't want to do, because it's better if you experience this book on your own. I, for one, fear the wait for book eight will kill me, and I cannot wait to see where this journey will take us. Until then, we have THIRDS Thursdays to see us through, and thank God for that.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Since we were left with a cliffhanger at the end of Catch a Tiger by the Tail, this book starts where the other left off. The first chapter is intense, and I was so so angry with Dex's captor that I just wanted to put my hands through my Kindle and strangle the bastard. But at the same time, Dex made me prouder than ever. I adore that man!
And then things just continue to get worse from there, and you'll constantly feel the need to hug Sloane, Cael and Tony, and your heart will break a million times over. Fear not, though. I've said this before and I'll say it again: Charlie always finds the opportune moment to write a hilarious scene right when you think you can't take the agony of your babies suffering anymore. And she gets mad props from me for that.
There's a lot of things I loved about this book. I was happy to see Dex and Sloane's relationship moving to the next level, growing stronger than ever, their bond solid and unbreakable. I was mesmerized by Ash, who stood by Cael's side unconditionally, never asking questions, always offering support and love. Then there were Seb and Hudson, ripping my soul to shreds, and I seriously need their book, because I want them to be happy. What's more, Tony proved throughout this entire book that he's a remarkable father, who gave his sons the chance to have a beautiful family.
I can't go into much more without giving away spoilers, which I don't want to do, because it's better if you experience this book on your own. I, for one, fear the wait for book eight will kill me, and I cannot wait to see where this journey will take us. Until then, we have THIRDS Thursdays to see us through, and thank God for that.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2017
4 Stars
I'm such a broken record where this series is concerned. The character development and the world-building continue to wow and amaze. And although this wasn't my favourite book of the series, this was definitely the most emotionally charged of the bunch. The angst was ramped up to 11 (which was great for the feels), but the humour that I loved so much in the previous stories was sorely missing (as it should be because the tone and impact of this story would have been thrown off kilter otherwise). I can't wait to see where Cochet takes this series next!
I'm such a broken record where this series is concerned. The character development and the world-building continue to wow and amaze. And although this wasn't my favourite book of the series, this was definitely the most emotionally charged of the bunch. The angst was ramped up to 11 (which was great for the feels), but the humour that I loved so much in the previous stories was sorely missing (as it should be because the tone and impact of this story would have been thrown off kilter otherwise). I can't wait to see where Cochet takes this series next!
March 20, 2024
To say I've been waiting for this story to appear is a huge understatement!! But fair's fair, Charlie kept dropping little hints to her group on Facebook and her blog followers, and the excitement just kept on growing.
So this story focuses of course [as it should] on Sloane
and Dex
I have to say, absolutely everything I thought was going to happen and suspected would actually happen did, even down to where the note that Gina Daley had left was hidden AND the revelations about Tony and Sparks **smug Mrs Smartarse**!! It didn't matter though, cos Charlie saved the best bit for the end [as far as I'm concerned anyhoo], and hopefully we'll get to attend the event in glorious technicolor and surround-sound. 4.5 stars from this Thirds addict, oh and Charlie?? More stories please!! :D
May 8, 2017
Thoroughly enjoyable.
Mark Westfield consistently uses tone, props and ingenuity to draw the listener in. He makes the story so much more unique and emotion-filled.
All those threads that have been dangling since the beginning, all those moments that seem to have been unrelated, it’s all explained and tied up with a neat little bow AND the series is left open ended enough to (please!) continue with new stories featuring our favorite Human-Therian couple.
Along with Westfield’s terrific narration this just a really entertaining and enjoyable experience.
Recommended.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
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