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Common Law #1
Long Shadows
LA cop Jericho Crewe got the hell out of Mosely, Montana, when he was seventeen. Fifteen years later, he’s back, and everything is just as messed up as when he left. He planned a quick visit to deal with his injured father, but of course things are never that simple. Family complications, police complications, social complications—and, as always, Wade Granger complications.
Jericho and Wade had been so close, once upon a time. First friends, then more than friends—and then, after Jericho’s escape, nothing. Wade’s magnetism hasn’t been lessened by a decade and a half apart; even when Jericho learns that Wade is the prime suspect in the death of Jericho’s father, the old connection still sparks.
When Jericho’s newly discovered half siblings are kidnapped, he needs to trust someone to help him find them. Wade’s a terrible choice, but Jericho’s never been known for his good judgment. Anyway, he’d rather make a bad decision with Wade than a good one with anybody else.
Jericho and Wade had been so close, once upon a time. First friends, then more than friends—and then, after Jericho’s escape, nothing. Wade’s magnetism hasn’t been lessened by a decade and a half apart; even when Jericho learns that Wade is the prime suspect in the death of Jericho’s father, the old connection still sparks.
When Jericho’s newly discovered half siblings are kidnapped, he needs to trust someone to help him find them. Wade’s a terrible choice, but Jericho’s never been known for his good judgment. Anyway, he’d rather make a bad decision with Wade than a good one with anybody else.
184 pages, ebook
First published December 31, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
February 9, 2017
Full review now posted, 1/1/17
Jericho Crewe is reluctantly returns to Mosely, Montana after he received a phone call telling him his father was in an accident. Jericho left home when he was 17, and after joining the Army, he now is a LAPD Detective. When he arrives in Mosley, he is shocked to find out his father remarried to a woman named Nicky and he also has 2 young half siblings. He is also met with a lot of questions, from not only the Sherriff, but also the FBI and DEA. It is apparent that Eli Crewe was in the middle of the criminal activity that was running rampant in Mosley
It doesn’t take long for Jay to figure out what exactly is going on. He forms alliances with his old friend, now Sherriff, Kayla, as well as his old friend and once boyfriend, Wade. When there is another incident and his new found family lives are in danger, he must take action. But who can Jay really trust?
I couldn’t connect with any of the characters at all. The fact that the story was told in the 3rd person POV probably didn't help. Please note, this is just my opinion, and I could be a moody reader at times. Even though it didn't work for me, I can understand why this story received so many high ratings
Long Shadow is book 1 in the new Common Law series. I am undecided if I want to continue with the series, although I am curious as to how the story progresses.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Jericho Crewe is reluctantly returns to Mosely, Montana after he received a phone call telling him his father was in an accident. Jericho left home when he was 17, and after joining the Army, he now is a LAPD Detective. When he arrives in Mosley, he is shocked to find out his father remarried to a woman named Nicky and he also has 2 young half siblings. He is also met with a lot of questions, from not only the Sherriff, but also the FBI and DEA. It is apparent that Eli Crewe was in the middle of the criminal activity that was running rampant in Mosley
It doesn’t take long for Jay to figure out what exactly is going on. He forms alliances with his old friend, now Sherriff, Kayla, as well as his old friend and once boyfriend, Wade. When there is another incident and his new found family lives are in danger, he must take action. But who can Jay really trust?
I couldn’t connect with any of the characters at all. The fact that the story was told in the 3rd person POV probably didn't help. Please note, this is just my opinion, and I could be a moody reader at times. Even though it didn't work for me, I can understand why this story received so many high ratings
Long Shadow is book 1 in the new Common Law series. I am undecided if I want to continue with the series, although I am curious as to how the story progresses.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2017
3.5*
Years ago 'Dark Horse' was the first m/m book I ever read and it was amazing, I've lost track of the number of times I've actually re-read that series.
So my expectations were high going into this book and it's safe to say it wasn't at all what I'd expected, while it has good well developed characters I never fully connected with them always feeling slightly removed.
It's an interesting introduction to this series and the scene is set for the next book but while this works well as an introduction and it's a steady interesting story there was no romance, no sex and no real drama.
I suspected this would be a slow burn but I had hoped there'd be more heat or some heat in this book.
Jericho Crewe left Mosely fifteen years ago aged seventeen, he left behind the love of his young life Wade, his good friend Kayla and his father Eli, his history since leaving town is impressive:
"Eight years in the Marines, four tours of Afghanistan, several commendations including a Purple Heart and a Silver Star. You earned your bachelor’s degree while serving. After your honorable discharge you joined the LAPD and are currently a detective in their robbery and homicide division.”
After receiving an urgent call informing him his father had suffered a fall and to hurry Jericho finds himself back where he thought he'd never be, back in Mosely.
It's hard being back, it turns out his father is dead, the town seems so much smaller and he has conflicting feelings on seeing Wade again.
Despite the fact that this book wasn't what I'd hoped it would be I'm looking forward to 'Embers' which I'm starting next.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley and Riptide Publishing.
Years ago 'Dark Horse' was the first m/m book I ever read and it was amazing, I've lost track of the number of times I've actually re-read that series.
So my expectations were high going into this book and it's safe to say it wasn't at all what I'd expected, while it has good well developed characters I never fully connected with them always feeling slightly removed.
It's an interesting introduction to this series and the scene is set for the next book but while this works well as an introduction and it's a steady interesting story there was no romance, no sex and no real drama.
I suspected this would be a slow burn but I had hoped there'd be more heat or some heat in this book.
Jericho Crewe left Mosely fifteen years ago aged seventeen, he left behind the love of his young life Wade, his good friend Kayla and his father Eli, his history since leaving town is impressive:
"Eight years in the Marines, four tours of Afghanistan, several commendations including a Purple Heart and a Silver Star. You earned your bachelor’s degree while serving. After your honorable discharge you joined the LAPD and are currently a detective in their robbery and homicide division.”
After receiving an urgent call informing him his father had suffered a fall and to hurry Jericho finds himself back where he thought he'd never be, back in Mosely.
It's hard being back, it turns out his father is dead, the town seems so much smaller and he has conflicting feelings on seeing Wade again.
Despite the fact that this book wasn't what I'd hoped it would be I'm looking forward to 'Embers' which I'm starting next.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley and Riptide Publishing.
July 22, 2017
***3.5 Stars***
Wow, with all the skeletons piling up in the closets Twin Peaks seems to take on a role model function for a lovely peaceful small town compared to Mosely, Montana...
This was an auspicious start to a series that could end up being right up my alley, although this first book more or less served as an introduction of scenery and characters.
To put it in a nutshell:
Nice little mystery - during the first half some things didn't quite add up for me, but the fast-paced second half made up for it.
No steam, sex, whatever... - but I knew beforehand what I was getting into, so it didn't really bother me and there was enough sizzling chemistry to keep me happy.
No insta-love, either - hallelujah! Jay (Jericho) and Wade have more of a friends-to-lovers-to-enemies-to-allies-maybe-back-to-something-more sort of relationship.
Great characters - I enjoyed the banter between Jay and Wade and just love it when two men play a game of cat-and-mouse. I'm also a sucker for the supposedly 'bad guy' and Wade is just a deliciously devious character.
And a promising one at that...
Wow, with all the skeletons piling up in the closets Twin Peaks seems to take on a role model function for a lovely peaceful small town compared to Mosely, Montana...
This was an auspicious start to a series that could end up being right up my alley, although this first book more or less served as an introduction of scenery and characters.
To put it in a nutshell:
Nice little mystery - during the first half some things didn't quite add up for me, but the fast-paced second half made up for it.
"We're running out of time, Wade. We don't want to solve a child murder, we want to prevent it."
No steam, sex, whatever... - but I knew beforehand what I was getting into, so it didn't really bother me and there was enough sizzling chemistry to keep me happy.
Wade looked at the forest floor for a moment or two, then up at Jericho. "I really missed you, Jay. Nobody else yells at me like you do."
Nobody else got Jericho frustrated enough that he WANTED to yell, but he wasn't going to tell Wade that. It would be one more response that would move them into dangerous territory, too intimate and true for who they now were.
No insta-love, either - hallelujah! Jay (Jericho) and Wade have more of a friends-to-lovers-to-enemies-to-allies-maybe-back-to-something-more sort of relationship.
Wade was - What the hell was he? Helping out? Not because he believed in the cause, that was certain. Maybe it was because Jericho WAS his weak spot. Which made it a hell of a lot easier for Jericho to accept that Wade was his.
Great characters - I enjoyed the banter between Jay and Wade and just love it when two men play a game of cat-and-mouse. I'm also a sucker for the supposedly 'bad guy' and Wade is just a deliciously devious character.
"We're on different sides. I'm sworn to uphold the law, and you seem bound and determined to break it at every opportunity. So we're on different sides." Jericho looked at the man in front of him. "But, no, I don't want to be your enemy."
Wade's smile was a little sad now. "I guess that's a start."
And a promising one at that...
March 13, 2018
30th Annual Lambda Literary Award Finalist
Gay Mystery:
4,5 stars
Great start for a new PROMISING series!
I hadn't read anything by Kate Sherwood before, so I didn't know what to expect when I picked up this book. I liked the blurb and I liked the cover (thanks God, no half naked men in the fog!) To tell the truth, I was rather skeptical (than euphoric). Too many mediocre MM Mystery Romance books on the market, too many of them led to disappointments for me.
I could have said, MAYBE I had enjoyed it because my expectations were zero, or MAYBE the timing was JUST good and my mood was JUST right, but honestly, it would be like looking for the fly in the ointment.
THIS BOOK WAS FUN! PERIOD.
FUN because it has FABULOUS characters.
(I'm still trying to find out who is on the cover: Jericho or Wade.)
Jericho who left Mosely, Montana, and his violent criminal father many years ago without looking back. A lot of happens since then: eight years in the Marines, four tours of Afghanistan, several commendations including a Purple Heart and a Silver Star. He earned his bachelor's degree while serving and joined after the LAPD as a detective in a robbery and homicide division.
AND NOW, over 10 years later, he returns to his home town because of the sudden call: his father had a stroke.
Wade is Jericho's BEST TEEN FRIEND, his buddy, his first love, his kindred spirit, whom he LEFT BEHIND many years ago without looking back, and who is the reason he is EXCITED to come back to Mosley. No, it is one of the reason Jericho rushes to his home town(the stroke is just an excuse) after this sudden call, even if he is not ready to admit it even to himself.
AND HERE WE HAVE ALREADY A CONFLICT.
Because.....
What I liked BESIDE the characters(they were GREAT!!!)
SLOOOOOOW build-up. I don't know if I can name it BUILD-UP. It is not so that they just met. But their separation was rush and left a lot of unanswered questions.
The dialogues. I LOVE THEM. I have to confess, that inability to create a good conversation in my romance books is one of the main reasons for my disappointment. Kate Sherwood mastered it perfectly.
The mystery was good. Corrupted cops/feds, an environment of a small province town, secondary characters, everything was just RIGHT.
I CAN'T WAIT for the next book. One of the reasons is....(do I dare to say it?!)
THERE IS NO A SINGLE SEX SCENE in the first book of the series.
But. You know what? I DON'T CARE. I'm even glad there were none, my dessert is on its way.
THIS BOOK WAS FUN even without a single graphical sex scene. And now you know WHY I can't wait for the next book. YES. It is one of the reasons. But also..
Because, it was FUN, it has great characters, it is good written, and I want MOOOOOOOOORE!!!
****Copy provided by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
Gay Mystery:
Gifts Given, Marshall Thornton, Kenmore Books
Long Shadows, Kate Sherwood, Riptide Publishing
Love is Heartless, Kim Fielding, Dreamspinner Press
The Mystery of the Curiosities, C. S. Poe, DSP Publications
Night Drop, Marshall Thornton, Kenmore Books
Ring of Silence, Mark Zubro, MLR Press
Street People, Michael Nava, Korima Press
Tramps and Thieves, Rhys Ford, Dreamspinner Press
4,5 stars
Great start for a new PROMISING series!
I hadn't read anything by Kate Sherwood before, so I didn't know what to expect when I picked up this book. I liked the blurb and I liked the cover (thanks God, no half naked men in the fog!) To tell the truth, I was rather skeptical (than euphoric). Too many mediocre MM Mystery Romance books on the market, too many of them led to disappointments for me.
I could have said, MAYBE I had enjoyed it because my expectations were zero, or MAYBE the timing was JUST good and my mood was JUST right, but honestly, it would be like looking for the fly in the ointment.
THIS BOOK WAS FUN! PERIOD.
FUN because it has FABULOUS characters.
(I'm still trying to find out who is on the cover: Jericho or Wade.)
Jericho who left Mosely, Montana, and his violent criminal father many years ago without looking back. A lot of happens since then: eight years in the Marines, four tours of Afghanistan, several commendations including a Purple Heart and a Silver Star. He earned his bachelor's degree while serving and joined after the LAPD as a detective in a robbery and homicide division.
AND NOW, over 10 years later, he returns to his home town because of the sudden call: his father had a stroke.
Wade is Jericho's BEST TEEN FRIEND, his buddy, his first love, his kindred spirit, whom he LEFT BEHIND many years ago without looking back, and who is the reason he is EXCITED to come back to Mosley. No, it is one of the reason Jericho rushes to his home town(the stroke is just an excuse) after this sudden call, even if he is not ready to admit it even to himself.
AND HERE WE HAVE ALREADY A CONFLICT.
Because.....
Wade is not a good citizen, just the opposite.
What I liked BESIDE the characters(they were GREAT!!!)
SLOOOOOOW build-up. I don't know if I can name it BUILD-UP. It is not so that they just met. But their separation was rush and left a lot of unanswered questions. The dialogues. I LOVE THEM. I have to confess, that inability to create a good conversation in my romance books is one of the main reasons for my disappointment. Kate Sherwood mastered it perfectly. The mystery was good. Corrupted cops/feds, an environment of a small province town, secondary characters, everything was just RIGHT.I CAN'T WAIT for the next book. One of the reasons is....(do I dare to say it?!)
THERE IS NO A SINGLE SEX SCENE in the first book of the series.
But. You know what? I DON'T CARE. I'm even glad there were none, my dessert is on its way.
THIS BOOK WAS FUN even without a single graphical sex scene. And now you know WHY I can't wait for the next book. YES. It is one of the reasons. But also..
Because, it was FUN, it has great characters, it is good written, and I want MOOOOOOOOORE!!!
****Copy provided by the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
January 5, 2021
3.25 stars
This was just okay, I don't know if i will continue with the series or not.
This was just okay, I don't know if i will continue with the series or not.
Read
October 27, 2016This series took me FOREVER to write... I mean, when I was working on them they went pretty quickly, but I kept getting frustrated and putting them away, getting intimidated and putting them away, etc. I think to some extent I had to grow as a writer before I was able to do them justice. (I only hope I have now, because I LOVE these characters and want others to love them too).
Jericho is a damaged smart-ass, Wade is a smart tough-guy. Kayla cares about Jericho but won't let him drag her down, Nikki is... well, Nikki is Nikki. I kept thinking she was a bit over-the-top, and then I'd listen to a couple women in my community who I used as quasi-models for her and I'd think, damn, she actually needs to be a bit rougher and harder to take!
Anyway, I hope everybody likes them! (or at least I hope SOMEBODY likes them...)
Jericho is a damaged smart-ass, Wade is a smart tough-guy. Kayla cares about Jericho but won't let him drag her down, Nikki is... well, Nikki is Nikki. I kept thinking she was a bit over-the-top, and then I'd listen to a couple women in my community who I used as quasi-models for her and I'd think, damn, she actually needs to be a bit rougher and harder to take!
Anyway, I hope everybody likes them! (or at least I hope SOMEBODY likes them...)
February 7, 2017
Long Shadows is the first of four books in Kate Sherwood's new Common Law series. And in spite of the fact that there is not so much as a kiss between Jericho and Wade, I still found I enjoyed this story quite a lot. The chemistry is there, though, so when they do finally give in, it should be pretty hot. Oh, please let them give in sooner rather than later!
Jericho Crewe is one of the few that actually got out of Mosely, MT. He joined the Marines as soon as he was of age and got the hell out. And after getting discharged, he decided to become a cop. Turns out that last thing was what got him disowned by dear old dad. No big loss there, let me tell ya. So when Jericho returns to Mosely to take care of some family business, he doesn't plan on sticking around any longer than he absolutely has to. Too bad nothing is what he assumed it would be going in. Jericho has changed a lot since he was a kid, and also he hasn't changed at all. Turns out, he might not be the only one.
Wade Granger was always the bad boy. Son of the town hooker (now retired, thank goodness), he's always kind of made his own rules. And he and Jay (as he calls Jericho) got into lots of trouble growing up and were best friends, and later, lovers. Wade chose to stay in Mosely and pretty much everyone knows that not all of Wade's business dealings are on the up and up. But, he's kept things out of sight enough to stay out of prison, so that's something. And though Jericho hasn't kept up with Wade since he left 15 years ago, Wade has kept at least some tabs on his former lover. Some things, it would seem, can't be let go so easily.
The suspense story line kept me guessing a bit, and it is really the focus of Long Shadows not romance. There is set up for romance, though, so I'm cautiously optimistic that it will come later. I'm ok with a slow burn as long as we do get a payoff. Besides, as Short Round would say (I paraphrase): "No time for love, Dr. Jones!". There are crimes to solve, after all, and just because Jericho is out of his jurisdiction, doesn't mean he can or will turn a blind eye when kids are in danger.
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of this series!
----------------------
Review copy of Long Shadows was generously provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Jericho Crewe is one of the few that actually got out of Mosely, MT. He joined the Marines as soon as he was of age and got the hell out. And after getting discharged, he decided to become a cop. Turns out that last thing was what got him disowned by dear old dad. No big loss there, let me tell ya. So when Jericho returns to Mosely to take care of some family business, he doesn't plan on sticking around any longer than he absolutely has to. Too bad nothing is what he assumed it would be going in. Jericho has changed a lot since he was a kid, and also he hasn't changed at all. Turns out, he might not be the only one.
Wade Granger was always the bad boy. Son of the town hooker (now retired, thank goodness), he's always kind of made his own rules. And he and Jay (as he calls Jericho) got into lots of trouble growing up and were best friends, and later, lovers. Wade chose to stay in Mosely and pretty much everyone knows that not all of Wade's business dealings are on the up and up. But, he's kept things out of sight enough to stay out of prison, so that's something. And though Jericho hasn't kept up with Wade since he left 15 years ago, Wade has kept at least some tabs on his former lover. Some things, it would seem, can't be let go so easily.
The suspense story line kept me guessing a bit, and it is really the focus of Long Shadows not romance. There is set up for romance, though, so I'm cautiously optimistic that it will come later. I'm ok with a slow burn as long as we do get a payoff. Besides, as Short Round would say (I paraphrase): "No time for love, Dr. Jones!". There are crimes to solve, after all, and just because Jericho is out of his jurisdiction, doesn't mean he can or will turn a blind eye when kids are in danger.
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of this series!
----------------------
Review copy of Long Shadows was generously provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2016
Jericho "Jay" Crewe left Mosely, Montana, fifteen years ago and never looks back. Until a phone call from the town he used to call home tells Jericho his father is hurt. Jericho returns to Mosely, finds out that his father had died instead. And alongside the Sherrif office, the three-letters government agencies are circling around his death. In the center of it is Wade Granger -- his childhood best friend, his first love, the one he left behind, and apparently a person of interest...
Well, Dayum...
I entered this book knowing that there are three subsequent titles that will follow (one book a month, from January to April 2017). Therefore, I also knew, going in, that this was just the beginning. If I can compare it to a 4-episodes miniseries, Long Shadows is the pilot episode. Its main role is to lay out the ground work -- introducing the characters, presenting the current and future issues, building up the tension that might be coming ahead.
It didn't mean that it was boring though. Sherwood controls the pace really well ... we have threats against Jericho's stepmother (a woman he never knows before!), a kidnapping, as well as a corrupt law enforcement agency. Right from the first chapter until the end, I was engaged.
And of course there is that complicated relationship between Jericho and Wade. Both standing on different side of the law. Jericho is an L.A.P.D detective, sworn to do the right thing by the law. Wade, on the other hand, is skirting the edge as a criminal entrepreneur. It's definitely NOT a good idea for Jericho to tangle up with Wade, despite their history. But sometimes the heart wants what it wants.
Kate Sherwood is quite known for her complicated couples. She doesn't do things easily ... I've encountered a murderer and his victim's brother (Mark of Cain) or an addict and the addict's friend's brother (Twice Shy) for example. But this what makes Sherwood's stories work for me; the complexity wins me almost every time.
I thought Common Law series was off with a good start. Just don't expect any sexual scenes in this one just yet; not even a kiss is shared between Jericho and Wade :). But that only means I can imagine when it happens, it will be explosive. I cannot WAIT for the second book.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Well, Dayum...
I entered this book knowing that there are three subsequent titles that will follow (one book a month, from January to April 2017). Therefore, I also knew, going in, that this was just the beginning. If I can compare it to a 4-episodes miniseries, Long Shadows is the pilot episode. Its main role is to lay out the ground work -- introducing the characters, presenting the current and future issues, building up the tension that might be coming ahead.
It didn't mean that it was boring though. Sherwood controls the pace really well ... we have threats against Jericho's stepmother (a woman he never knows before!), a kidnapping, as well as a corrupt law enforcement agency. Right from the first chapter until the end, I was engaged.
And of course there is that complicated relationship between Jericho and Wade. Both standing on different side of the law. Jericho is an L.A.P.D detective, sworn to do the right thing by the law. Wade, on the other hand, is skirting the edge as a criminal entrepreneur. It's definitely NOT a good idea for Jericho to tangle up with Wade, despite their history. But sometimes the heart wants what it wants.
Kate Sherwood is quite known for her complicated couples. She doesn't do things easily ... I've encountered a murderer and his victim's brother (Mark of Cain) or an addict and the addict's friend's brother (Twice Shy) for example. But this what makes Sherwood's stories work for me; the complexity wins me almost every time.
I thought Common Law series was off with a good start. Just don't expect any sexual scenes in this one just yet; not even a kiss is shared between Jericho and Wade :). But that only means I can imagine when it happens, it will be explosive. I cannot WAIT for the second book.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
June 17, 2020
Two things to mention: first, I have never read this author's work before and second, I went in prepared that there will be absolutely no steam and being absolutely okay with this fact. I liked the story right away. Ms Sherwood's writing style is light, straightforward and tinged with humor. The story itself is well paced, suspenseful and with a host of well written diverse characters. The chemistry between LAPD detective Jericho (love the name btw) and his childhood sweetheart full time gentleman criminal Wade is simmering and just waiting to catch them both on fire. I loved that there was no animosity between them. They were friendly, even affectionate and willing to see if they still clicked. The mystery was rather good, the plot twists were on point and kept the story from getting repetitive. I am looking forward to reading the series.
Two things would have made this story perfect for me. I wished Wade had more on page time, although he was not far from Jerisho's mind and my general awareness throughout the story. I hoped that this book would be told in dual POVs but alas only Jericho's POV led the narrative. Overall, this was a wonderful shorter novel that had a lot to offer. I enjoyed it.
Two things would have made this story perfect for me. I wished Wade had more on page time, although he was not far from Jerisho's mind and my general awareness throughout the story. I hoped that this book would be told in dual POVs but alas only Jericho's POV led the narrative. Overall, this was a wonderful shorter novel that had a lot to offer. I enjoyed it.
February 7, 2017
4.5 Stars
Well….hello there.
Wow! This book really surprised me. These guys have a solid hold on me already. At book one!
Jericho Crewe (Jay) is called back home to Mosley, Montana after 15 years away. Fifteen years away from the land and mountains he knows so well, his family, and Wade Granger. Wade and Jericho were best friends, inseparable trouble makers, and more before Jericho got the hell out of Dodge and never looked back. Until…trouble and loyalty and maybe loneliness pull him back. Will old friends and sparks ignite again?
*whistles* Wade and Jericho have it going on! Some characters seem to get under my skin and stay there. Strong personalities alive with mystery, confidence, mischief and charisma have this magnetic pull on my heart and soul. I can see and feel some characters so clearly. And boy-o-boy did these two latch onto my imagination and fantasies in a hurry! There is just something here—crackling between these two guys. Looks and grins and tension. A pent up, about to POP! energy seeped in history, playfulness, pain, and protectiveness. I loved every minute Wade and Jericho shared the page. Loved it!
“Wade’s eyes were wide and deep gray and Jericho couldn’t stop staring into them. Wade ran his free hand up over Jericho’s ribs, barely touching, then over his shoulder and onto the bare skin of his neck. It felt like he was exploring, learning the new dimensions of a body he’d once known as well as he knew his own.”
Jericho’s vulnerability, loneliness, and goodness sprinkled with smartass-ness and attitude paired right up with Wade’s dark grace and easy confident way. There was something about Jericho’s personality that nibbled away at the believability factor for me though, but to be honest I waved most of it away whenever Wade was around. My heart does this little flutter, flip every time Wade calls Jericho—Jay. Haha…That man! Jericho describes Wade the best…
“He’d always been beautiful and fluid and impossible to hold on to. Fascinating but deadly. He’d been the only thing that had kept Jericho sane through far too many nights of desperation and rebellion…”
I’m really looking forward to slowly unwrapping Wade Granger. He’s got this dark, mysterious, cockiness about him that draws me to him. You have to look! You can’t look away from his grinning “quicksilver gray eyes” filled with heat and trouble. So much trouble!
I’m already staring off into space daydreaming about the trouble *waggles eyebrows* Jericho and Wade can get into. Their chemistry is already off the charts hot and there isn’t even a sex scene to be found here. I can’t wait for book two!
Highly recommended.
Well….hello there.
Wow! This book really surprised me. These guys have a solid hold on me already. At book one!
Jericho Crewe (Jay) is called back home to Mosley, Montana after 15 years away. Fifteen years away from the land and mountains he knows so well, his family, and Wade Granger. Wade and Jericho were best friends, inseparable trouble makers, and more before Jericho got the hell out of Dodge and never looked back. Until…trouble and loyalty and maybe loneliness pull him back. Will old friends and sparks ignite again?
*whistles* Wade and Jericho have it going on! Some characters seem to get under my skin and stay there. Strong personalities alive with mystery, confidence, mischief and charisma have this magnetic pull on my heart and soul. I can see and feel some characters so clearly. And boy-o-boy did these two latch onto my imagination and fantasies in a hurry! There is just something here—crackling between these two guys. Looks and grins and tension. A pent up, about to POP! energy seeped in history, playfulness, pain, and protectiveness. I loved every minute Wade and Jericho shared the page. Loved it!
“Wade’s eyes were wide and deep gray and Jericho couldn’t stop staring into them. Wade ran his free hand up over Jericho’s ribs, barely touching, then over his shoulder and onto the bare skin of his neck. It felt like he was exploring, learning the new dimensions of a body he’d once known as well as he knew his own.”
Jericho’s vulnerability, loneliness, and goodness sprinkled with smartass-ness and attitude paired right up with Wade’s dark grace and easy confident way. There was something about Jericho’s personality that nibbled away at the believability factor for me though, but to be honest I waved most of it away whenever Wade was around. My heart does this little flutter, flip every time Wade calls Jericho—Jay. Haha…That man! Jericho describes Wade the best…
“He’d always been beautiful and fluid and impossible to hold on to. Fascinating but deadly. He’d been the only thing that had kept Jericho sane through far too many nights of desperation and rebellion…”
I’m really looking forward to slowly unwrapping Wade Granger. He’s got this dark, mysterious, cockiness about him that draws me to him. You have to look! You can’t look away from his grinning “quicksilver gray eyes” filled with heat and trouble. So much trouble!
I’m already staring off into space daydreaming about the trouble *waggles eyebrows* Jericho and Wade can get into. Their chemistry is already off the charts hot and there isn’t even a sex scene to be found here. I can’t wait for book two!
Highly recommended.
December 26, 2016
Yeah! I loved it. It didn't even feel too short.
This is not M/M Romance, so you might be disappointed if you go into it looking for the lovey dovey plot. This is a police procedural with a gay MC. The MC's sexual orientation barely comes into play for the story other than as a backdrop to a childhood relationship. I guess you could say it has a small pinch of romance with that relationship as a backdrop. But this is a well delivered police procedural plot.
Perfect pacing and well developed characters are presented with flawless editing. This short book practically reads itself. It is such a refreshing break from the often OTT drama of the romance genre.
5 stars my friends. 5 stars for a wonderful afternoon read.
Review ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley
This is not M/M Romance, so you might be disappointed if you go into it looking for the lovey dovey plot. This is a police procedural with a gay MC. The MC's sexual orientation barely comes into play for the story other than as a backdrop to a childhood relationship. I guess you could say it has a small pinch of romance with that relationship as a backdrop. But this is a well delivered police procedural plot.
Perfect pacing and well developed characters are presented with flawless editing. This short book practically reads itself. It is such a refreshing break from the often OTT drama of the romance genre.
5 stars my friends. 5 stars for a wonderful afternoon read.
Review ARC kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley
December 30, 2019
Raised in Mosely, a small Montana town near the Canadian border, Jericho Crewe and Wade Granger were boyhood friends and lovers. "He and Wade had both been raw and exposed, and it had only made sense for them to press themselves together, offering less tender flesh to the outside world." When they were 17, Jericho left ... and Wade stayed. 15 years later - during which Jericho spent 8 years in the Marines (four tours in Afghanistan) and 5 years as a beat cop in LA - he returns to Mosely after the death of his father, only to be surprised by a step-mom and two young half-sibs ... and a whole mess of trouble.
Wade seems to be running drugs, guns, and god-knows-what to the border and back, and he's got his fingers in every scheme in town. But when push comes to shove, does he have Jericho's back? Is the pull of their past love strong enough after all these years?
This story sucked me in from page one and held my interest every last page of the way. Kate Sherwood spins an intriguing mystery with dirty cops, kidnapping and shoot-outs and balances it with the slowly-unwinding story of the relationship between Wade and Jericho. There is not ONE sex scene in this book - just one kiss - yet the tension between Wade and Jericho is heady and potent with possibility.
The end of the book brings about a resolution of the kidnapping, but leaves a whole bunch of questions. Is Wade involved with Jericho's father's death? Did they catch all the dirty cops? Wade and Jericho are pretty much on opposite sides of the law - who's planning to change sides? This is a great start to a new Kate Sherwood series and I give it 4.5 stars.
I received an ARC from Riptide Publishing, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
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Wade seems to be running drugs, guns, and god-knows-what to the border and back, and he's got his fingers in every scheme in town. But when push comes to shove, does he have Jericho's back? Is the pull of their past love strong enough after all these years?
This story sucked me in from page one and held my interest every last page of the way. Kate Sherwood spins an intriguing mystery with dirty cops, kidnapping and shoot-outs and balances it with the slowly-unwinding story of the relationship between Wade and Jericho. There is not ONE sex scene in this book - just one kiss - yet the tension between Wade and Jericho is heady and potent with possibility.
The end of the book brings about a resolution of the kidnapping, but leaves a whole bunch of questions. Is Wade involved with Jericho's father's death? Did they catch all the dirty cops? Wade and Jericho are pretty much on opposite sides of the law - who's planning to change sides? This is a great start to a new Kate Sherwood series and I give it 4.5 stars.
I received an ARC from Riptide Publishing, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
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Shelved as 'nope-cuz-bullshit'
December 13, 2016No sex scenes in this one. Will wait until the series is over to start. I needs my sex.
February 9, 2017
Kate Sherwood is one of my favorite m/m authors. But this book - I can't help it, I didn't like it at all. Didn't like it so much I can't even bring myself to add an extra star - even though I know it's obviously me and not the book. I just didn't enjoy it; and it annoyed the hell out of me.
Okay, one: if I want to read a book without m/m romance - I'll read a book that is not m/m romance. And you know what? I'd expect it to have a great mystery (if it's mystery) and a cast of intriguing characters, and something to stay with me to think about. And the other way round - I'm ready to forgive a lot of things to m/m romance just because it's m/m. This book had neither this nor that. The mystery was boring. OMG, I didn't care who killed the old man! I didn't care how much trouble Nikki was in - she was so unlikable I would be only happy to see her dead. I didn't care about the kidnapped kids - first, we didn't even get to know them, and second - did anyone, even for a moment, doubted they would be rescued safe and sound? There was nothing unexpected, no surprise, no revelation - nothing.
Two - all characters were really unlikable. Nikki and the kids I already mentioned. Kayla was a manipulative bitch. Jericho - man, I usually love characters like him, good and honest and upstanding. Yet somehow he managed to come off as a pushover when he should've shown some character - and bitchy and sanctimonious when he should've looked human.
Okay, Wade didn't annoy me - just because there was so little of him.
Oh yes, and romance - or the lack of it. Is it like - you write four books, so you don't put all the goodies in the first book, you need to hold off on something to make people come for more? Maybe it works with other readers. Not with me. It's a whole book, it's not free - so it shouldn't feel like a teaser. It certainly didn't tease me enough to buy other books in this series.
Okay, it was a mean review. Maybe I'm just in the wrong mood. But that's what I think about this book.
Okay, one: if I want to read a book without m/m romance - I'll read a book that is not m/m romance. And you know what? I'd expect it to have a great mystery (if it's mystery) and a cast of intriguing characters, and something to stay with me to think about. And the other way round - I'm ready to forgive a lot of things to m/m romance just because it's m/m. This book had neither this nor that. The mystery was boring. OMG, I didn't care who killed the old man! I didn't care how much trouble Nikki was in - she was so unlikable I would be only happy to see her dead. I didn't care about the kidnapped kids - first, we didn't even get to know them, and second - did anyone, even for a moment, doubted they would be rescued safe and sound? There was nothing unexpected, no surprise, no revelation - nothing.
Two - all characters were really unlikable. Nikki and the kids I already mentioned. Kayla was a manipulative bitch. Jericho - man, I usually love characters like him, good and honest and upstanding. Yet somehow he managed to come off as a pushover when he should've shown some character - and bitchy and sanctimonious when he should've looked human.
Okay, Wade didn't annoy me - just because there was so little of him.
Oh yes, and romance - or the lack of it. Is it like - you write four books, so you don't put all the goodies in the first book, you need to hold off on something to make people come for more? Maybe it works with other readers. Not with me. It's a whole book, it's not free - so it shouldn't feel like a teaser. It certainly didn't tease me enough to buy other books in this series.
Okay, it was a mean review. Maybe I'm just in the wrong mood. But that's what I think about this book.
December 12, 2016
I really liked this first book in a new series. Jericho is a cop who lives in Los Angeles. He gets a call that his father has been hurt in an accident and he needs to come home immediately. Against his better judgment he heads home. Jericho is not close to his father and in fact hasn't seen him in years because his dad was not only abusive but he's a lifetime criminal. Jericho gets home and finds total chaos. His dad is dead, he has siblings he didn't know existed, his dad's current wife is a neck deep in trouble and his ex, the love of his life, Wade, is also neck deep in things. So deep there's a chance he's the one who killed Jericho's dad.
The story was pretty fast paced and read like a romantic suspense. Which for me was a great thing. It's a genre I love and one that really hasn't crossed over into m/m stories. I loved Jericho right from the beginning. There's a scene at the start of the book where he's being questioned by the FBI and I was immediately smitten with him. Snark and smart-assery gets me every time. *heart eyes*
The side characters were also really entertaining and I was on pins and needles every time Wade was in a scene. The UST was so strong in jumped off of the page. These two have mad chemistry. That being said, nothing actually happens between them in this book. That's ok with me. The build up and wait is going to make the pay off even better I think. I have no idea where the author is going with these two (although I have a suspicion). They are on opposite sides of the law and......well, you'll see when you read this.
This was really good in my opinion and I can not wait to get my hands on the rest of the books in this series.
**ARC provided by publisher through Netgalley**
The story was pretty fast paced and read like a romantic suspense. Which for me was a great thing. It's a genre I love and one that really hasn't crossed over into m/m stories. I loved Jericho right from the beginning. There's a scene at the start of the book where he's being questioned by the FBI and I was immediately smitten with him. Snark and smart-assery gets me every time. *heart eyes*
The side characters were also really entertaining and I was on pins and needles every time Wade was in a scene. The UST was so strong in jumped off of the page. These two have mad chemistry. That being said, nothing actually happens between them in this book. That's ok with me. The build up and wait is going to make the pay off even better I think. I have no idea where the author is going with these two (although I have a suspicion). They are on opposite sides of the law and......well, you'll see when you read this.
This was really good in my opinion and I can not wait to get my hands on the rest of the books in this series.
**ARC provided by publisher through Netgalley**
April 5, 2017
I liked where this was going but no heat in the whole book ? It was just setting the scene - I was hoping for a taster. Maybe I'll come back to the series later...
December 21, 2018
*** DNF @ 46% ***
A very well written and interesting story so far. Unfortunately, it's heavy on the mystery and light on the romance and that's just not my bag.
A very well written and interesting story so far. Unfortunately, it's heavy on the mystery and light on the romance and that's just not my bag.
April 3, 2021
By the end of Chapter 4, I'd ordered Book 2.
By the end of the book, I'd ordered the whole series.
Full RTC.
By the end of the book, I'd ordered the whole series.
Full RTC.
Want to read
October 27, 2016Gimmie. >:D
June 25, 2020
This was good. I'm definitely intrigued, no question.
I wouldn't really call it a romance though. I mean, even when they were involved as kids I don't know if that would have been a romance either, I mean, they were kids. There is for sure something though and it has potential to be burn up the pages.
What it is though, is for sure a book with a great setup for additional stories. And, what I hope is a chance for some romance even though I have no idea how that is going to work but am very giddy about seeing it happen. So, yeah, as an introduction to a series, I'm into it.
But, I was kind of expecting some sort of romance. I think I read it was low in steam but well, this wasn't low in steam, there was NO STEAM. There was nothing really, but like I said up there, it's building, I just wished there was something in this one.
My only other issue was with Jericho. I feel like every time I was in a groove and really starting to dig his character he'd turn into sort of a pushover. I didn't like how all the women in this book treated him and how he just let them. It seemed odd. He immediately considered Nikki family and well, it just didn't sit right with me. I love a hero, don't get me wrong, and he could have come to the rescue without being so manipulated. I don't know if that is the right word but it felt like manipulation. The Sheriff treated him poorly too and he allowed it.
I did like Wade, quite a bit and I can't wait to see how this all plays out. Weak spots indeed.
I wouldn't really call it a romance though. I mean, even when they were involved as kids I don't know if that would have been a romance either, I mean, they were kids. There is for sure something though and it has potential to be burn up the pages.
What it is though, is for sure a book with a great setup for additional stories. And, what I hope is a chance for some romance even though I have no idea how that is going to work but am very giddy about seeing it happen. So, yeah, as an introduction to a series, I'm into it.
But, I was kind of expecting some sort of romance. I think I read it was low in steam but well, this wasn't low in steam, there was NO STEAM. There was nothing really, but like I said up there, it's building, I just wished there was something in this one.
My only other issue was with Jericho. I feel like every time I was in a groove and really starting to dig his character he'd turn into sort of a pushover. I didn't like how all the women in this book treated him and how he just let them. It seemed odd. He immediately considered Nikki family and well, it just didn't sit right with me. I love a hero, don't get me wrong, and he could have come to the rescue without being so manipulated. I don't know if that is the right word but it felt like manipulation. The Sheriff treated him poorly too and he allowed it.
I did like Wade, quite a bit and I can't wait to see how this all plays out. Weak spots indeed.
February 6, 2017
Many things change, but some things remain the same.
When Jericho Crewe gets a call from a stranger telling him that his father is ill, he returns home to Mosely, Montana only to discover his father is dead, leaving behind a widow and children, and his childhood love and friend Wade Granger is actually one of the suspects. When the children are kidnapped Jericho joins forces with Wade to rescue them only to realise that while many things have changed some things remain the same.
This is an excellent start to a new series.
Jericho has changed so much and is no longer the young man existing on the borderline of criminality. He is now on the side of law and order, but coming home to Mosley shows him that not much has changed and in some ways he hasn't changed either.
He is still attracted to his childhood friend and first love but Wade doesn't walk legal straight lines.
Jericho puts all this behind him so that he can solve the mystery of the missing children but touches and glances linger in his mind and his memory, and at the end he will have to make new choices, and step into this new future, marching to the echoes of the past.
The writing here is solid and a very satisfying read. The story unfolds quite slowly but in a way that grips the reader. As we are drawn into the story we get to see how much has changed for Jericho and the feelings he is forced to deal with as he returns to his home town after fifteen years. He has changed so much but he is still that scrappy young man within and even deeper within this is the feeling he has for his first love.
It is a great introduction to the new series but it doesn't feel like an introduction because of the way you are pulled into the story from the beginning and the end of the story brings us to the cusp of the next episode without feeling that we are left hanging.
A great read and an excellent beginning. Onwards to part two!
Copy provided by Riptide Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
When Jericho Crewe gets a call from a stranger telling him that his father is ill, he returns home to Mosely, Montana only to discover his father is dead, leaving behind a widow and children, and his childhood love and friend Wade Granger is actually one of the suspects. When the children are kidnapped Jericho joins forces with Wade to rescue them only to realise that while many things have changed some things remain the same.
This is an excellent start to a new series.
Jericho has changed so much and is no longer the young man existing on the borderline of criminality. He is now on the side of law and order, but coming home to Mosley shows him that not much has changed and in some ways he hasn't changed either.
He is still attracted to his childhood friend and first love but Wade doesn't walk legal straight lines.
Jericho puts all this behind him so that he can solve the mystery of the missing children but touches and glances linger in his mind and his memory, and at the end he will have to make new choices, and step into this new future, marching to the echoes of the past.
The writing here is solid and a very satisfying read. The story unfolds quite slowly but in a way that grips the reader. As we are drawn into the story we get to see how much has changed for Jericho and the feelings he is forced to deal with as he returns to his home town after fifteen years. He has changed so much but he is still that scrappy young man within and even deeper within this is the feeling he has for his first love.
It is a great introduction to the new series but it doesn't feel like an introduction because of the way you are pulled into the story from the beginning and the end of the story brings us to the cusp of the next episode without feeling that we are left hanging.
A great read and an excellent beginning. Onwards to part two!
Copy provided by Riptide Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
February 7, 2017
Perhaps 3.5 stars
When I started reading, I was absolutely thrilled. Finally a story that kept me entertained and was totally gripping. At that point I pre-ordered the other books.
Sadly, shortly after, something went wrong for me and I can't put my finger on what it was. I think, Jericho took his family at face value and much too easy for my feeling. There were no questions, just: all right, my father's second wife and their children. Yes, he didn't like those children, nevertheless from that moment they were 'family'. Well, fine, if that worked for him, for me as a reader it didn't. Also the interaction between him and Nikki - not working 100%, something was off. Perhaps he was too nice and understanding?
And then all that stuff with the police department and all these Fed's. Isn't this a very small town? And they have such a huge criminality? Wow. Even as a set-up for the whole series - now that I finished this first part I'm sitting here, having a huge question mark in my head regarding: do I want to follow this series? Yes, I already ordered the other books, but at least I will wait with reading on until the final book is released.
Perhaps until then I'll know what exactly bothers me about this story.
(Btw. I wouldn't be surprised to learn in the end that Wade was in fact working under cover. LOL!)
When I started reading, I was absolutely thrilled. Finally a story that kept me entertained and was totally gripping. At that point I pre-ordered the other books.
Sadly, shortly after, something went wrong for me and I can't put my finger on what it was. I think, Jericho took his family at face value and much too easy for my feeling. There were no questions, just: all right, my father's second wife and their children. Yes, he didn't like those children, nevertheless from that moment they were 'family'. Well, fine, if that worked for him, for me as a reader it didn't. Also the interaction between him and Nikki - not working 100%, something was off. Perhaps he was too nice and understanding?
And then all that stuff with the police department and all these Fed's. Isn't this a very small town? And they have such a huge criminality? Wow. Even as a set-up for the whole series - now that I finished this first part I'm sitting here, having a huge question mark in my head regarding: do I want to follow this series? Yes, I already ordered the other books, but at least I will wait with reading on until the final book is released.
Perhaps until then I'll know what exactly bothers me about this story.
(Btw. I wouldn't be surprised to learn in the end that Wade was in fact working under cover. LOL!)
July 27, 2020
2.5 stars
I think it might just be me, but I didn't like this story much.
What I did like - I liked Jericho and how his smartass comes out with the Feds.
What I didn't like - I can see where the author was going with it but I don't think it was long enough for all the cloak and dagger of pretty much every character. Not one character talked openly and was so busy either talking in riddles or not answering questions that I feel like I didn't know any of them.
and to be honest I don't really want to continue on with the series as I don't see how it's going to work.
I think it might just be me, but I didn't like this story much.
What I did like - I liked Jericho and how his smartass comes out with the Feds.
What I didn't like - I can see where the author was going with it but I don't think it was long enough for all the cloak and dagger of pretty much every character. Not one character talked openly and was so busy either talking in riddles or not answering questions that I feel like I didn't know any of them.
and to be honest I don't really want to continue on with the series as I don't see how it's going to work.
May 23, 2020
Promising start to this series!
Enthralling police procedure, interesting characters and great dialogues.
I'm definitely going to read the next book. :)
4.5 stars
Enthralling police procedure, interesting characters and great dialogues.
I'm definitely going to read the next book. :)
4.5 stars
February 6, 2017
3.5 stars
I've read a few books by this author, and always felt like her and I don't get along. I can never mesh well together when I read her books. When I saw the cover for this book on Netgalley, I immediately wanted to click it. I did click it, and was super happy. I had to tell myself it doesn't matter how I feel about her past books, but only this one. I'm not a fan of the romantic suspense genre. It just doesn't work for me. I prefer mystery/thriller and the romance doesn't even have to play a part. I should not have been worried, because I liked this story. There is no romance in this first book, I'm sure book two will probably see something but Jericho and Wade have a lot of soul searching to do by then.
Jericho left Mosely 15 years ago and never looked back. I liked Jericho as a character. He had his little flaws, but he wanted to prove to people and himself that leaving Mosely was the best thing he could do for himself. He's successful in his own way, but one can never forget their first love. Enter Wade Granger. All around criminal and bad guy. Yet, by the end of the story I'm not so sure about Wade's character. He seems to good hearted to be a full blown criminal and bad enough to want to hurt Jericho for leaving him behind. I'm still trying to figure them out.
I did enjoy the pacing of the story. I really liked the mystery element to the story. I'm not so sure about everyone's motives at this point, but it was only book 1 and I'm sure by book 4 everything will be much clearer. I'm proud that I allowed myself to give Kate Sherwood another try. This goes to show you that every book doesn't have to work for you, but you never know what might be good for someone else. If you like suspenseful stories, and a good love connection/background between two characters then this is your book. Definitely recommend this book.
I've read a few books by this author, and always felt like her and I don't get along. I can never mesh well together when I read her books. When I saw the cover for this book on Netgalley, I immediately wanted to click it. I did click it, and was super happy. I had to tell myself it doesn't matter how I feel about her past books, but only this one. I'm not a fan of the romantic suspense genre. It just doesn't work for me. I prefer mystery/thriller and the romance doesn't even have to play a part. I should not have been worried, because I liked this story. There is no romance in this first book, I'm sure book two will probably see something but Jericho and Wade have a lot of soul searching to do by then.
Jericho left Mosely 15 years ago and never looked back. I liked Jericho as a character. He had his little flaws, but he wanted to prove to people and himself that leaving Mosely was the best thing he could do for himself. He's successful in his own way, but one can never forget their first love. Enter Wade Granger. All around criminal and bad guy. Yet, by the end of the story I'm not so sure about Wade's character. He seems to good hearted to be a full blown criminal and bad enough to want to hurt Jericho for leaving him behind. I'm still trying to figure them out.
I did enjoy the pacing of the story. I really liked the mystery element to the story. I'm not so sure about everyone's motives at this point, but it was only book 1 and I'm sure by book 4 everything will be much clearer. I'm proud that I allowed myself to give Kate Sherwood another try. This goes to show you that every book doesn't have to work for you, but you never know what might be good for someone else. If you like suspenseful stories, and a good love connection/background between two characters then this is your book. Definitely recommend this book.
January 4, 2017
I was really looking forward to reading four new books by Kate Sherwood. I have loved her work (Shying Away, The Pawn/The Knight, The Fall/Riding Tall, Mark of Cain), but this first in her new series didn’t hook me enough to continue. This was very much a book one; no cliffhanger, but basically just setting up the characters and revealing some of their past history. There’s a mystery solved, with more fallout to come, but there’s nothing of note on the romance front yet. I just didn’t warm up to the characters all that much. I might’ve been more interested if this was told from Wade’s point of view, he was the most intriguing to me. The writing is fine, but I’m putting this series aside for now.
February 17, 2017
I should know by now that this author simply isn't my cup paper. DNF at 54%. I didn't care about a single person in this book and was thoroughly unimpressed with the writing. It was an exercise in frustration.
EDIT: Thanks for losing my edits, Goodreads.
Feb. 16, 2017: After a challenge from a reading buddy (who shall not be named) and peeking at a few spoilers, I decided to finish the book. While I'll never be a fan of this author's writing, the second half of the book was far more interesting to me. My rating stands at 3 stars (more like 3.25), and I just might be convinced to read the second in the series.
EDIT: Thanks for losing my edits, Goodreads.
Feb. 16, 2017: After a challenge from a reading buddy (who shall not be named) and peeking at a few spoilers, I decided to finish the book. While I'll never be a fan of this author's writing, the second half of the book was far more interesting to me. My rating stands at 3 stars (more like 3.25), and I just might be convinced to read the second in the series.
February 6, 2017
3.5 Stars - Full Review posted on Alpha Book Club
February 23, 2017
ARC from Netgalley
Am I the only person who wants to run my hands up that man’s chest and sweep that tee right over his head? I think there’s a roller coaster ride of abs beneath that cotton, and I want a peek. OK. Now that I have that out of my system…oh my word. I fell for Jericho at lightning speed. He was freaking hilarious, and I love how he deals with authority – he loves to mess with law enforcement even though he’s one of them, and yeah. It’s sexy as hell. This is a trio ‘local boy makes good,’ ‘rushing home to save the day,’ and (fingers crossed) ‘rekindled romance’ story.
Long Shadows gripped me from the start. Just Jericho’s memories before he even came into contact with anyone in his hometown were interesting, and you could feel the chemistry between Jericho and Wade before they even met up again. It was so hot, and I just know when they finally get together, it’s going to be hot. They didn’t in this first installment, which is good, because the story really didn’t allow for it. But I am, first and foremost, a romance reader, and I want the sex. BUT I’m willing to wait for the right moment. The suspense part of this story, while a bit predictable, was still good – who can you trust? Who has it out for you? These are things that, even if the reader can solve part of the mystery, they can’t solve it all.
I picked Long Shadows up because I had previously read Sacrati by this author, and I really enjoyed it. So of course I was on the lookout for more. I wasn’t disappointed. Long Shadows is part of a serial, but it seems as though each story will have one smaller arc to go along with the larger one. While there are things to still be resolved, this book had a satisfactory ending that wasn’t jarring in the last. I loved this installment, and I can’t wait to cuddle up with Embers and see what else Jericho has up his sleeve!
This review was originally posted on Books & Beauty Are My Bag.
Am I the only person who wants to run my hands up that man’s chest and sweep that tee right over his head? I think there’s a roller coaster ride of abs beneath that cotton, and I want a peek. OK. Now that I have that out of my system…oh my word. I fell for Jericho at lightning speed. He was freaking hilarious, and I love how he deals with authority – he loves to mess with law enforcement even though he’s one of them, and yeah. It’s sexy as hell. This is a trio ‘local boy makes good,’ ‘rushing home to save the day,’ and (fingers crossed) ‘rekindled romance’ story.
Long Shadows gripped me from the start. Just Jericho’s memories before he even came into contact with anyone in his hometown were interesting, and you could feel the chemistry between Jericho and Wade before they even met up again. It was so hot, and I just know when they finally get together, it’s going to be hot. They didn’t in this first installment, which is good, because the story really didn’t allow for it. But I am, first and foremost, a romance reader, and I want the sex. BUT I’m willing to wait for the right moment. The suspense part of this story, while a bit predictable, was still good – who can you trust? Who has it out for you? These are things that, even if the reader can solve part of the mystery, they can’t solve it all.
I picked Long Shadows up because I had previously read Sacrati by this author, and I really enjoyed it. So of course I was on the lookout for more. I wasn’t disappointed. Long Shadows is part of a serial, but it seems as though each story will have one smaller arc to go along with the larger one. While there are things to still be resolved, this book had a satisfactory ending that wasn’t jarring in the last. I loved this installment, and I can’t wait to cuddle up with Embers and see what else Jericho has up his sleeve!
This review was originally posted on Books & Beauty Are My Bag.
January 5, 2017
I was provided a copy by the publisher via NetGalley.
First, there is no sex - there isn't even a relationship. Don't read this one expecting there to be anything romantic here.
This was an ok read for me. All I can say is it was average. Average plot, average characters, average writing. Nothing earth shattering, and I will admit to skimming a little because I didn't need a lot of the minute details.
The premise to the story is this: Jericho left Mosely when he was a teenager (not sure exactly when because at first he left 10 years ago, then 15 years was said), and he left behind Wade, his not exactly boyfriend, but certainly fuck buddy. Jericho's dad isn't a stand up citizen. He is a criminal, to put it bluntly. And when Jericho returns home he learns his father was murdered, had remarried and had two kids (Jericho's young half-siblings). The blurb gave me the impression these kids would be teenagers, but they were around 6 years old. Way younger than I expected.
Jericho is a detective with the LAPD and when he returns home, he is dragged into investigating what happened to his father, how he can help his "step-mother," and dealing with seeing Wade again - who isn't a straight businessman either.
This story turned out to be nothing like I expected and I am debating if I want to read the next book. Book 1 didn't exactly end on a cliffhanger, but yet it did. The crime was solved, but his relationship with Wade isn't resolved, his half-siblings need his help if they are going to turn out even somewhat civilized, and there is still the criminal element in the town.
I can't say I would recommend this story. But it's not terrible. I may change this review if I end up reading book 2 (and it's better). Clearly this is a continuous series and the characters keep growing (I think) with each installment. I just don't know where it all ends.
First, there is no sex - there isn't even a relationship. Don't read this one expecting there to be anything romantic here.
This was an ok read for me. All I can say is it was average. Average plot, average characters, average writing. Nothing earth shattering, and I will admit to skimming a little because I didn't need a lot of the minute details.
The premise to the story is this: Jericho left Mosely when he was a teenager (not sure exactly when because at first he left 10 years ago, then 15 years was said), and he left behind Wade, his not exactly boyfriend, but certainly fuck buddy. Jericho's dad isn't a stand up citizen. He is a criminal, to put it bluntly. And when Jericho returns home he learns his father was murdered, had remarried and had two kids (Jericho's young half-siblings). The blurb gave me the impression these kids would be teenagers, but they were around 6 years old. Way younger than I expected.
Jericho is a detective with the LAPD and when he returns home, he is dragged into investigating what happened to his father, how he can help his "step-mother," and dealing with seeing Wade again - who isn't a straight businessman either.
This story turned out to be nothing like I expected and I am debating if I want to read the next book. Book 1 didn't exactly end on a cliffhanger, but yet it did. The crime was solved, but his relationship with Wade isn't resolved, his half-siblings need his help if they are going to turn out even somewhat civilized, and there is still the criminal element in the town.
I can't say I would recommend this story. But it's not terrible. I may change this review if I end up reading book 2 (and it's better). Clearly this is a continuous series and the characters keep growing (I think) with each installment. I just don't know where it all ends.
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