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Roadmap to Your Heart #1.5
The Faintest Spark
Malachi O'Rourke spends his years as president of the Disciples of the Road cleaning up his father's mess, grieving a broken heart, and protecting the men under his charge. Sawyer Malone hasn't had it easy either since joining the Scorpions. While paying back a personal debt for his club seems gratifying on the surface, he ends up sacrificing way more than he bargained for.
When Mal recognizes that Sawyer is struggling, he offers him needed support. Something about the man's quiet strength stirs deeply inside him. Sawyer knows he shouldn't rely on the solace Mal provides, but he's been the only ray of light in an otherwise bleak few months. So after a tender moment passes between the men, they simply chalk it up to their newfound friendship.
Besides, no one will ever measure up to Mal's former old lady and Sawyer's just been through his own tragic ordeal. But when they're thrust together for a weekend event involving both of their clubs, they can no longer deny their attraction. Except time-honored loyalties and hard-fought tradition will not only force them to risk their standing--but also gamble with their hearts.
Here's the reading order of this series (five books):
THE DARKEST FLAME
THE FAINTEST SPARK
THE DEEPEST BLUE
THE HARDEST FALL
THE SWEETEST GOODBYE
When Mal recognizes that Sawyer is struggling, he offers him needed support. Something about the man's quiet strength stirs deeply inside him. Sawyer knows he shouldn't rely on the solace Mal provides, but he's been the only ray of light in an otherwise bleak few months. So after a tender moment passes between the men, they simply chalk it up to their newfound friendship.
Besides, no one will ever measure up to Mal's former old lady and Sawyer's just been through his own tragic ordeal. But when they're thrust together for a weekend event involving both of their clubs, they can no longer deny their attraction. Except time-honored loyalties and hard-fought tradition will not only force them to risk their standing--but also gamble with their hearts.
Here's the reading order of this series (five books):
THE DARKEST FLAME
THE FAINTEST SPARK
THE DEEPEST BLUE
THE HARDEST FALL
THE SWEETEST GOODBYE
132 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2017
72 people are currently reading
347 people want to read
About the author
Christina Lee
55 books2,140 followersChristina writes romance in different sub-genres, mostly with LGBTQ characters, not only because she's part of the community, but because representation matters, and everyone deserves a happily-ever-after.
You can find more info on her website: www.christinalee.net. From there you can link to her Facebook reader group as well as her IG account and newsletter.
You can find more info on her website: www.christinalee.net. From there you can link to her Facebook reader group as well as her IG account and newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
March 15, 2018
3.75 stars!
“The Faintest Spark”is the novella 1.5 to roadmap to your heart series. I want to say you don’t have to read book 1 but IMO its best to read it just so you can get an understanding why when this story starts the MC already have a connection. It took me a bit to remember the events of the previous book but once it came back to me I got right into the flow of the story.
As Mal and Sawyer’s relationship deepens so does their attraction they can’t seem to stay away from each other. For Mal it was harder because his never been attracted to a man before, but he finds he can’t fight what he feels for Sawyer any longer.
This was a quick read with a bit of angst and two super sexy guys who couldn’t keep their hands off each other. Nothing much goes on expect for the rivals MC trying to work out their issues and of course for both Mal and Sawyer to come out to their clubs. I loved Mal, and what he did to show Sawyer he was ready to be with him. An enjoyable read. ♥️
“The Faintest Spark”is the novella 1.5 to roadmap to your heart series. I want to say you don’t have to read book 1 but IMO its best to read it just so you can get an understanding why when this story starts the MC already have a connection. It took me a bit to remember the events of the previous book but once it came back to me I got right into the flow of the story.
As Mal and Sawyer’s relationship deepens so does their attraction they can’t seem to stay away from each other. For Mal it was harder because his never been attracted to a man before, but he finds he can’t fight what he feels for Sawyer any longer.
This was a quick read with a bit of angst and two super sexy guys who couldn’t keep their hands off each other. Nothing much goes on expect for the rivals MC trying to work out their issues and of course for both Mal and Sawyer to come out to their clubs. I loved Mal, and what he did to show Sawyer he was ready to be with him. An enjoyable read. ♥️
April 3, 2017
I loved book 1 in this series and I absolutely adored this little gem !!
It was short, it was sweet and it was HOT.
Mal is president of the Disciples. The same MC club, Smoke (book 1) is a part of. He takes very good care of the men in his club and lately, he has also been taking care of Sawyer....
Sawyer is part of the Scorpians MC and he has been on an undercover assignment within another MC club, to earn his patch and prove his worth. This assignment also has to do with the storyline of book 1.
I don't think it's completely nessecary to read book 1, but it would give you more understanding as to what this assignment was about.
Anyways, this undercover gig has left Sawyer a bit fucked up and in his time of need he turns to Mal, who is a good listener and most importantly....he cares.
His caring however, soon turns into something more.
The two of them grow very close and and so does the sexual tension. For Sawyer these feelings aren't so strange because he is bi and everyone within his club knows this. But for Mal, this is the first time he has felt any attraction towards a man. Him being club president also complicates things, not to mention that they are also from different clubs.
But again....the heart wants what it wants and boy do these two want each other !!
"Such a greedy little hole. Sucking on my finger like this." "Don't want your finger. Want your cock."
I was very proud of Mal for not doubting himself too much and going after what he wanted !! Sawyer was the perfect man for him and he helped Mal express his wants and needs.
I fell in love with Sawyer's bravery, his beauty, his unflappable dignity and given any alternate version of reality....I still would've chosen him.
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
It was short, it was sweet and it was HOT.
Mal is president of the Disciples. The same MC club, Smoke (book 1) is a part of. He takes very good care of the men in his club and lately, he has also been taking care of Sawyer....
Sawyer is part of the Scorpians MC and he has been on an undercover assignment within another MC club, to earn his patch and prove his worth. This assignment also has to do with the storyline of book 1.
I don't think it's completely nessecary to read book 1, but it would give you more understanding as to what this assignment was about.
Anyways, this undercover gig has left Sawyer a bit fucked up and in his time of need he turns to Mal, who is a good listener and most importantly....he cares.
His caring however, soon turns into something more.
The two of them grow very close and and so does the sexual tension. For Sawyer these feelings aren't so strange because he is bi and everyone within his club knows this. But for Mal, this is the first time he has felt any attraction towards a man. Him being club president also complicates things, not to mention that they are also from different clubs.
But again....the heart wants what it wants and boy do these two want each other !!
"Such a greedy little hole. Sucking on my finger like this." "Don't want your finger. Want your cock."
I was very proud of Mal for not doubting himself too much and going after what he wanted !! Sawyer was the perfect man for him and he helped Mal express his wants and needs.
I fell in love with Sawyer's bravery, his beauty, his unflappable dignity and given any alternate version of reality....I still would've chosen him.
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
January 13, 2019
3.5 Stars
Here’s what you can look forward to regarding this story, though I don’t recommend reading this as a standalone.
-Motorcycle club trope
-Stoic silver fox coming to grips with his newfound feelings regarding another in a quasi-rival club
-Tattooed young man struggling with some inner demons and recent trauma all the while just trying to find a place to belong
-Hot as fire introduction of said fox to all the MM goodness resulting in some proprietary claiming on both men’s parts
I’m not typically for the MC trope, but Lee succeeds with her classic first person dual pov showcasing how Mal and Sawyer fight their feelings which is basically pointless once they realize their attraction. Very mild angst in coming out, this was an appreciated easy win with major bonus points for the hot smex!
Here’s what you can look forward to regarding this story, though I don’t recommend reading this as a standalone.
-Motorcycle club trope
-Stoic silver fox coming to grips with his newfound feelings regarding another in a quasi-rival club
-Tattooed young man struggling with some inner demons and recent trauma all the while just trying to find a place to belong
-Hot as fire introduction of said fox to all the MM goodness resulting in some proprietary claiming on both men’s parts
I’m not typically for the MC trope, but Lee succeeds with her classic first person dual pov showcasing how Mal and Sawyer fight their feelings which is basically pointless once they realize their attraction. Very mild angst in coming out, this was an appreciated easy win with major bonus points for the hot smex!
April 1, 2017
I'll start off by saying that I loved The Faintest Spark by Christina Lee. Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. I was unsure about reading it because I hadn't read the first two books. I wondered if I'd feel lost and have a hard time following the story and characters. Luckily we're given enough insight into Mal and Sawyer's story, setting us up nicely for this novella.
My highlights:
-Mal and Sawyer. It was impossible not to fall for these guys. They were great, well-rounded characters.
-Chemistry. HOLY. SMOKES. It was palpable. Their conversations, their stares, their touches. I was in romance heaven.
-The romance. I loved feeling their longing for each other and the struggle they felt at trying to fight their feelings. It was delicious.
-Pace. The pace was smooth and quick.
-Narration. The story is told from alternating POVs.
-No unnecessary drama. These men were adults, and they respected each other.
Sadly the end came too soon; I wasn't ready for it to end.
If you're looking for:
-May/Dec romance
-A possessive alpha
-Scorching hot sex scenes
-Low angst
-Emotional
-With a sweet HEA
Then I can't recommend The Faintest Spark by Christina Lee enough! 5 Stars!
Read
July 9, 2017Since I've gotten asked about Mal's HEA quite a bit over the past couple of years, I figured knowing what happened to him after that fateful night at the end of The Darkest Flame would (hopefully) satisfy reader's questions about the Disciples brave and sexy leader. :-)
P.S. Even Cory and Jude from There You Stand make a cameo.
P.S. Even Cory and Jude from There You Stand make a cameo.
August 21, 2017
~3.5~
This book directly follows the events of book 1. Mal is the president of the the Disciples motorcycle club; Sawyer, a member of the Scorpions, who worked with Mal and his men to take down a corrupt club dealing with guns and drugs.
I liked Mal in the first book and was happy that he found his HEA with Sawyer. Mal has never been with a man before, but Sawyer is so good at giving up control.
This is a lower-angst story with some incredibly sexy moments.
The ending is somewhat tentative, since the men are still members of different clubs, but Mal chooses Sawyer, and that bodes well for their future.
P.S. I binge read the Roadmap to Your Heart series out of order, beginning with book 3.5, The Sweetest Goodbye, followed by book 2, The Deepest Blue (which I definitely should have read before reading Billie's story), then book 3, book 1, and this book.
Books 1 and 1.5 are grittier than the other books; the MCs are bikers (except for Vaughn who's a bartender), and the books are only tangentially related to the rest of the series.
I enjoyed every book in the series and definitely recommend it!
This book directly follows the events of book 1. Mal is the president of the the Disciples motorcycle club; Sawyer, a member of the Scorpions, who worked with Mal and his men to take down a corrupt club dealing with guns and drugs.
I liked Mal in the first book and was happy that he found his HEA with Sawyer. Mal has never been with a man before, but Sawyer is so good at giving up control.
This is a lower-angst story with some incredibly sexy moments.
The ending is somewhat tentative, since the men are still members of different clubs, but Mal chooses Sawyer, and that bodes well for their future.
P.S. I binge read the Roadmap to Your Heart series out of order, beginning with book 3.5, The Sweetest Goodbye, followed by book 2, The Deepest Blue (which I definitely should have read before reading Billie's story), then book 3, book 1, and this book.
Books 1 and 1.5 are grittier than the other books; the MCs are bikers (except for Vaughn who's a bartender), and the books are only tangentially related to the rest of the series.
I enjoyed every book in the series and definitely recommend it!
April 1, 2017
I really enjoyed this! It was so sweet and sexy! Mal and Sawyer made me swoon. Sigh :)
Full disclosure: I have not read the other books in the series. I could pick up on what happened in the previous books based on the information given in this one though.
Full disclosure: I have not read the other books in the series. I could pick up on what happened in the previous books based on the information given in this one though.
April 28, 2018
3.5 stars
As with all novellas, I'm left wishing I'd gotten a longer, deeper look at the MCs. However, for its length, this one packed a punch.
Forging a new MM relationship when belonging to separate MC clubs is not a walk in the park. But Sawyer and Mal have a special connection to each other stronger than anything else in their lives. Now they just need the courage to move forward.
A lovely gfy novella. I really enjoyed it.
As with all novellas, I'm left wishing I'd gotten a longer, deeper look at the MCs. However, for its length, this one packed a punch.
Forging a new MM relationship when belonging to separate MC clubs is not a walk in the park. But Sawyer and Mal have a special connection to each other stronger than anything else in their lives. Now they just need the courage to move forward.
A lovely gfy novella. I really enjoyed it.
July 17, 2024
I listed to the first book in this series and decided that I liked the characters enough to go for the second. The title of the book may be a bit misleading, since when these two guys finally got up the nerve to try to be together and to tell their individual clubs that they more than just "liked" one another...they didn't produce a "spark"...what they had going was a roaring 4-alarm fire.
Mal and Sawyer fell in love and developed a connection while Sawyer was working undercover to help Mal's club. The fact that the two clubs more or less tolerated each other, and Mel was the president of his club, made both guys cautious of showing anything but friendship while with their members...finally they figured out that it didn't matter what anyone else thought...they HAD to be together.
I wasn't crazy about the book, but it was a good enough story for a 4-star rating. You really need to like motorcycle clubs and read the first book before this one.
Mal and Sawyer fell in love and developed a connection while Sawyer was working undercover to help Mal's club. The fact that the two clubs more or less tolerated each other, and Mel was the president of his club, made both guys cautious of showing anything but friendship while with their members...finally they figured out that it didn't matter what anyone else thought...they HAD to be together.
I wasn't crazy about the book, but it was a good enough story for a 4-star rating. You really need to like motorcycle clubs and read the first book before this one.
December 9, 2018
3.5 Stars
This motorcycle/MC romance novella follows the unexpected, but deliciously hot and tender relationship, which forms between Disciples president Mal and Scorpions underling Sawyer.
There has been a huge time-gap between when I read the rest of this series and now, so I’ll admit a lot of the characters and past happenings are super hazy in my memory, but I still very much enjoyed this addition to the overall series.
For me, Lee’s characters are where it’s at. The emotional connection shared between her main characters is always my favourite aspect of her stories, and the spark felt here, between Mal and Sawyer, was no different. Theirs was a developing bond of friendship and much needed emotional support, which grew and blossomed into much more than either expected.
Although they faced some roadblocks on their path to happiness, rest assured all’s well that ends well for Mal and Sawyer.
This motorcycle/MC romance novella follows the unexpected, but deliciously hot and tender relationship, which forms between Disciples president Mal and Scorpions underling Sawyer.
There has been a huge time-gap between when I read the rest of this series and now, so I’ll admit a lot of the characters and past happenings are super hazy in my memory, but I still very much enjoyed this addition to the overall series.
For me, Lee’s characters are where it’s at. The emotional connection shared between her main characters is always my favourite aspect of her stories, and the spark felt here, between Mal and Sawyer, was no different. Theirs was a developing bond of friendship and much needed emotional support, which grew and blossomed into much more than either expected.
Although they faced some roadblocks on their path to happiness, rest assured all’s well that ends well for Mal and Sawyer.
April 3, 2017
I read the first book in this series and then never really continued on - not sure why. I really like MC books, but there really aren't that many MM ones out there.
This was a nice easy read - low angst, good steam, likable main characters.
I'll definitely be checking out the other books in the series.
This was a nice easy read - low angst, good steam, likable main characters.
I'll definitely be checking out the other books in the series.
August 15, 2017
*** 4.25 Stars ***
D'awwww! This one made me feel all squishy inside. :) Pretty tame as far as biker MCs go, though.
D'awwww! This one made me feel all squishy inside. :) Pretty tame as far as biker MCs go, though.
June 9, 2017
Cute ! Not thinking you would say that about an MC MM romance, but seriously Mal & Sawyer were cute as they came to terms with their feelings and the different clubs. I'd actually love a full book with these two - I connected ❤️
December 1, 2017
This is a short, sexy, swoony novella from the Roadmap To Your Heart series featuring a May/December romance between two men from different MCs.
Malichi is the President of the Disciples of the Road. He is a widower, older, honest, and strong. He and Sawyer shared some time together during an undercover operation, and it made them get closer. Sawyer is a member of the Scorpions and he played both sides to help their two clubs bring down a mutual enemy, but he was left suffering the after effects and nightmares. Neither men was prepared for an attraction or feelings to grow, especially Mal who had only ever been with women. I loved their tentative touches, longing looks, jealousy, and possessiveness, and seeing these two tough men fight their feelings.
These two struggle to figure out what it all means, to find time together, keep their secret, and to figure out how they could possibly have a chance to be anything more than a casual hook up. The odds are stacked against them and they will be at the mercy of the understanding of their clubs.
I enjoyed more time in this world with other couples Smoke and Vaughn(The Darkest Flame) and even a peek at Jude and Cory(There You Stand). This was a short novella, but it made me truly feel for these guys and it was hot and sweet. I would have loved to see a bit more with them though.
Malichi is the President of the Disciples of the Road. He is a widower, older, honest, and strong. He and Sawyer shared some time together during an undercover operation, and it made them get closer. Sawyer is a member of the Scorpions and he played both sides to help their two clubs bring down a mutual enemy, but he was left suffering the after effects and nightmares. Neither men was prepared for an attraction or feelings to grow, especially Mal who had only ever been with women. I loved their tentative touches, longing looks, jealousy, and possessiveness, and seeing these two tough men fight their feelings.
These two struggle to figure out what it all means, to find time together, keep their secret, and to figure out how they could possibly have a chance to be anything more than a casual hook up. The odds are stacked against them and they will be at the mercy of the understanding of their clubs.
I enjoyed more time in this world with other couples Smoke and Vaughn(The Darkest Flame) and even a peek at Jude and Cory(There You Stand). This was a short novella, but it made me truly feel for these guys and it was hot and sweet. I would have loved to see a bit more with them though.
September 16, 2019
3.5*
Mal and Sawyer's story was sweet- it had a hurt/comfort feel to it, with how careful Mal was with Sawyer, how he worried about him after everything that went down with Jake. Even though he's the president of a different mc, he still cared. I really liked that aspect of Mal's character.
I like when character's who really shouldn't work, work. Sawyer needed Mal, but I think Mal needed Sawyer even more. And I know I needed more of their story!
Mal and Sawyer's story was sweet- it had a hurt/comfort feel to it, with how careful Mal was with Sawyer, how he worried about him after everything that went down with Jake. Even though he's the president of a different mc, he still cared. I really liked that aspect of Mal's character.
I like when character's who really shouldn't work, work. Sawyer needed Mal, but I think Mal needed Sawyer even more. And I know I needed more of their story!
Want to read
January 17, 2017MAL
Come to mama, Daddy!
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Come to mama, Daddy!
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April 3, 2018
Mal and Sawyer were hot!
This was a great way to follow Vaughn and Smoke’s story, since Sawyer was pivotal in saving them. Mal was already becoming comfortable with same-sex relationships after books 1 & 2 and I was hoping he’d fall for a guy too. Sure enough, he falls for Sawyer, having taken an interest in him while he was undercover. The story isn’t complex, just the progression of Mal and Sawyer from friends to lovers in secret.
I truly enjoy these MC stories and the way they retain the old-school biker vibe even while they morph into a more modern group with legal pursuits. This was quite low-key, no angst and no danger. Just a rather sweet romance.
This was a great way to follow Vaughn and Smoke’s story, since Sawyer was pivotal in saving them. Mal was already becoming comfortable with same-sex relationships after books 1 & 2 and I was hoping he’d fall for a guy too. Sure enough, he falls for Sawyer, having taken an interest in him while he was undercover. The story isn’t complex, just the progression of Mal and Sawyer from friends to lovers in secret.
I truly enjoy these MC stories and the way they retain the old-school biker vibe even while they morph into a more modern group with legal pursuits. This was quite low-key, no angst and no danger. Just a rather sweet romance.
October 25, 2022
This novella is about the love blossoming between the Disciples president Mal and Scorpions member Sawyer!! I never saw it coming but loved it.
Just wish it was way much longer! I would like to read in detail the development of Mal's feelings who had never had a thing for men before.
Just wish it was way much longer! I would like to read in detail the development of Mal's feelings who had never had a thing for men before.
January 15, 2019
Rep: gay mc, bi mc
would have been better if it was longer and also can this possessive trope just die already
would have been better if it was longer and also can this possessive trope just die already
April 1, 2017
It's not the book, it's me. I dislike "MC" (Motorcycle Club) books. So why did I delve into this one? obvious reason - it's by Christina. It's hard for me to refrain from reading her books even though I knew, right from the start it's NOT my turf. But you see, though the first installment in the series was "so-so" for me, I LOVED the 2nd and 3rd installment so I wasn't going to pass this one out. Though it chronically takes place after the first installment (and has A LOT to do with what happened there) it's actually the last novella to close this series. There's another short novella published a few months ago that is chronically last but THIS is the sort of the finale with Mal the head of the "Disciples" Motorcycle club finding his HEA.
This was typical MC novel. MC "gangs" business, a LOT of testosterone filled alpha males which goes well with a LOT of sex. There was little romance in this book. In the previous installment Malachi "Mal" O'Rourke the head of the "Disciples" worked closely with Sawyer Malone, a member of the "Scorpions" MC. Sawyer was doing undercover work for both clubs to take down a third club (exactly the sort of thing that loses my interest in 3 seconds flat..). Sawyer is left with nightmares from his affairs with a very dark man he was suppose to seduce and now he is also frown upon by other MC members for being gay (he's actually Bi) even though he did EVERYONE a big favor. The whole ordeal bought Sawyer and Mal closer together and formed a sort of friendship with Mal feeling protective of the younger guy and Sawyer being comforted by Mal's care.
This is the "background" to the story (explained in the two prologues), the rest of the novella is all about them getting closer together. It has a little bit of comfort but it's MOSTLY about them getting off / having sex. Not knowing how they could have anything more with how MC members generally see gay people not to mention Mal's position as president of the Disciples while Sawyer is a part of another MC club (with a suspicious president..).
I knew this installment might be "problematic" for me for dealing with the MC clubs (unlike the 2nd and 3rd installment in which the clubs were really only in the background). The story starts with a meeting between several gang presidents and them talking "business". B-O-R-I-N-G-! There is something that feels borderline silly about the whole thing. I think if I was actually seeing these guys, in a bar talking about "club businesses" I would burst with laughter about how immature and stupid it sounds. Not to mention the MAJOR turnoff from the pompous alphas. Which is actually my MAIN problem with the book. I don't think it was possible to remove the MC part, and it wouldn't have been that bad if I've felt I'm reading a true romance novel, but actually it was about possession and obsession and sex. Mal wanted to OWN Sawyer, as much as Sawyer wanted to own by him. It was ALL about them finding a way to getting off together, and so little about a real story, about relationship buildup (and not just sexual progression between them). I think I would have rather had a full length novel with an actual story line (even with the annoying MC club) than a book that is mostly about sexual release between testosterone filled motorcycle club members.
My next read is the last (chronologically) novella in the series, lucky it doesn't suppose to have anything to do with MCs. But I've learnt my lesson, as I did with YA - if it's genre/turf I dislike I'm not trying it even if it's by an author I LOVED before. I rated most of Christina's books 5 stars. I LOVE her writing. It's the turf, it's not for me. Only shows how diverse Christina can be. If you're into MC club novels you'll LOVE this one.
More Reviews HERE
This was typical MC novel. MC "gangs" business, a LOT of testosterone filled alpha males which goes well with a LOT of sex. There was little romance in this book. In the previous installment Malachi "Mal" O'Rourke the head of the "Disciples" worked closely with Sawyer Malone, a member of the "Scorpions" MC. Sawyer was doing undercover work for both clubs to take down a third club (exactly the sort of thing that loses my interest in 3 seconds flat..). Sawyer is left with nightmares from his affairs with a very dark man he was suppose to seduce and now he is also frown upon by other MC members for being gay (he's actually Bi) even though he did EVERYONE a big favor. The whole ordeal bought Sawyer and Mal closer together and formed a sort of friendship with Mal feeling protective of the younger guy and Sawyer being comforted by Mal's care.
This is the "background" to the story (explained in the two prologues), the rest of the novella is all about them getting closer together. It has a little bit of comfort but it's MOSTLY about them getting off / having sex. Not knowing how they could have anything more with how MC members generally see gay people not to mention Mal's position as president of the Disciples while Sawyer is a part of another MC club (with a suspicious president..).
I knew this installment might be "problematic" for me for dealing with the MC clubs (unlike the 2nd and 3rd installment in which the clubs were really only in the background). The story starts with a meeting between several gang presidents and them talking "business". B-O-R-I-N-G-! There is something that feels borderline silly about the whole thing. I think if I was actually seeing these guys, in a bar talking about "club businesses" I would burst with laughter about how immature and stupid it sounds. Not to mention the MAJOR turnoff from the pompous alphas. Which is actually my MAIN problem with the book. I don't think it was possible to remove the MC part, and it wouldn't have been that bad if I've felt I'm reading a true romance novel, but actually it was about possession and obsession and sex. Mal wanted to OWN Sawyer, as much as Sawyer wanted to own by him. It was ALL about them finding a way to getting off together, and so little about a real story, about relationship buildup (and not just sexual progression between them). I think I would have rather had a full length novel with an actual story line (even with the annoying MC club) than a book that is mostly about sexual release between testosterone filled motorcycle club members.
My next read is the last (chronologically) novella in the series, lucky it doesn't suppose to have anything to do with MCs. But I've learnt my lesson, as I did with YA - if it's genre/turf I dislike I'm not trying it even if it's by an author I LOVED before. I rated most of Christina's books 5 stars. I LOVE her writing. It's the turf, it's not for me. Only shows how diverse Christina can be. If you're into MC club novels you'll LOVE this one.
More Reviews HERE
August 27, 2017
☆3.5/5☆
Une romance chaude, intense et passionnée, comme je les aime.
L'intrigue s'enchaîne avec les évènements qui se sont produits à la fin du T1, et du coup, on en apprend plus sur Sawyer, et comment il en est arrivé à faire ce qu'il a fait à la fin du T1. Seulement, sa mission sous couverture a laissé des traces, et il va trouver en Mal, pourtant président d'un autre club que le sien, l'amitié, le soutien et la compassion dont il a besoin.
Sauf que bien sûr, les choses vont se compliquer car Mal va réaliser qu'au-delà de l'intense besoin de protection qu'il ressent à l'égard à de Sawyer, il y a autre chose ... L'électricité sexuelle qui grésille entre eux donne beaucoup d'intensité au récit et sincèrement, je n'en pouvais plus d'attendre qu'ils se sautent dessus, et quand ils le font ... Woaw !
La bisexualité de Sawyer n'est un secret pour personne, en revanche, jusqu'ici Mal était résolument hétéro (il a même été marié et a perdu sa femme dans des circonstances tragiques). Le fait qu'il soit subitement attiré par un homme ne lui met pas non plus la tête à l'envers, il ne passe pas par une phase de déni ou de questionnement douloureux.
Leur histoire a un petit côté Roméo et Juliette, même si leurs clubs ne sont pas rivaux, et cela va accentuer l'intensité de la nouvelle, rendant leur liaison clandestine et un rien impossible.
Les scènes intimes sont très chaudes et intenses, vraiment réussies, même si je trouve que pour un débutant, Mal se débrouille comme un chef et n'a vraiment pas froid aux yeux ! .
Petit bémol néanmoins concernant la fin, trop abrupte à mon goût. Un épilogue aurait vraiment bienvenue, d'autant qu'au vu des résumés des prochains tomes, l'auteur change d'univers et on ne reverra pas ces bikers ...
Leur histoire m'a touchée, j'ai vibré avec eux et j'aurais vraiment aimé que l'auteur leur consacre un format plus long. Un très bon moment de lecture donc ! ♥
Une romance chaude, intense et passionnée, comme je les aime.
L'intrigue s'enchaîne avec les évènements qui se sont produits à la fin du T1, et du coup, on en apprend plus sur Sawyer, et comment il en est arrivé à faire ce qu'il a fait à la fin du T1. Seulement, sa mission sous couverture a laissé des traces, et il va trouver en Mal, pourtant président d'un autre club que le sien, l'amitié, le soutien et la compassion dont il a besoin.
Sauf que bien sûr, les choses vont se compliquer car Mal va réaliser qu'au-delà de l'intense besoin de protection qu'il ressent à l'égard à de Sawyer, il y a autre chose ... L'électricité sexuelle qui grésille entre eux donne beaucoup d'intensité au récit et sincèrement, je n'en pouvais plus d'attendre qu'ils se sautent dessus, et quand ils le font ... Woaw !
La bisexualité de Sawyer n'est un secret pour personne, en revanche, jusqu'ici Mal était résolument hétéro (il a même été marié et a perdu sa femme dans des circonstances tragiques). Le fait qu'il soit subitement attiré par un homme ne lui met pas non plus la tête à l'envers, il ne passe pas par une phase de déni ou de questionnement douloureux.
Leur histoire a un petit côté Roméo et Juliette, même si leurs clubs ne sont pas rivaux, et cela va accentuer l'intensité de la nouvelle, rendant leur liaison clandestine et un rien impossible.
Les scènes intimes sont très chaudes et intenses, vraiment réussies, même si je trouve que pour un débutant, Mal se débrouille comme un chef et n'a vraiment pas froid aux yeux ! .
Petit bémol néanmoins concernant la fin, trop abrupte à mon goût. Un épilogue aurait vraiment bienvenue, d'autant qu'au vu des résumés des prochains tomes, l'auteur change d'univers et on ne reverra pas ces bikers ...
Leur histoire m'a touchée, j'ai vibré avec eux et j'aurais vraiment aimé que l'auteur leur consacre un format plus long. Un très bon moment de lecture donc ! ♥
Read
March 31, 2017Christina Lee brings us a tender yet fiery romance in this May/Dec novella. As a fan of this queer romance series, I cannot recommend The Faintest Spark enough.
I think what I love most about this novella, as well as the additional books of the series, is the consistent theme of self –acceptance. It was wonderful to witness Mal struggle with his attraction to Sawyer and the courage he found to act on it, both physically and emotionally. I felt that their chemistry was genuine and not done out of convenience, which escalated the believability of a MC President falling for a rival club’s mechanic.
I thought the writing was strong technically and the story flowed at a pleasant pace, something I’ve come to depend on when reading work authored by Christina Lee. However, I do wish this was a full length novel! I did find myself saying “oooh I wish that thought was developed further” or “that scene could have been flushed out a bit more” This is not so much of a criticism, per se, yet more of an “okay this is a great start let’s see where it goes” response. I’m just a greedypants, sorrynotsorry.
If you’re looking for a well written novella that packs an emotional punch and delivers scorching sexy times, I wouldn’t miss The Faintest Spark or the rest of the Roadmap to Your Heart series.
I think what I love most about this novella, as well as the additional books of the series, is the consistent theme of self –acceptance. It was wonderful to witness Mal struggle with his attraction to Sawyer and the courage he found to act on it, both physically and emotionally. I felt that their chemistry was genuine and not done out of convenience, which escalated the believability of a MC President falling for a rival club’s mechanic.
I thought the writing was strong technically and the story flowed at a pleasant pace, something I’ve come to depend on when reading work authored by Christina Lee. However, I do wish this was a full length novel! I did find myself saying “oooh I wish that thought was developed further” or “that scene could have been flushed out a bit more” This is not so much of a criticism, per se, yet more of an “okay this is a great start let’s see where it goes” response. I’m just a greedypants, sorrynotsorry.
If you’re looking for a well written novella that packs an emotional punch and delivers scorching sexy times, I wouldn’t miss The Faintest Spark or the rest of the Roadmap to Your Heart series.
Read additional reviews on Slow Reader's Blog
March 28, 2017
This is a novella is the Roadmap to Your Heart series. Malachi became a beloved character in the other books and we finally get to see his HEA. What becomes the most wonderful of surprises, is that Mal decides that you love who your heart wants and it doesn't matter who you've loved before or what the mores MC society says.
The tough President of the Disciple's of the Road has to live by the code of brotherhood within the MC. He sets an example for his men and needs to stand up for his club amongst other clubs. Not all clubs are as open as Mal has been in accepting gay men into his fold.
Sawyer is from one of those clubs that although they know he is Bi, they don't necessarily like it. Mal has been nothing but supportive to Sawyer through the whole ordeal their clubs fought in previous books. It was wonderful to see this deep friendship morph into something more. And Malachi, God love him, once he got the ok from Sawyer to just do what felt right.....whew.....that man took over. He made Sawyer his in every way. Even better, he shows he is all in by declaring Sawyer his in front of his club and eventually in front of Sawyer's. So very Alpha!
A short read but full of some off the charts steam. What makes this so worth the read is the LOVE! Dreamy, can't keep my hands off you, need to have you forever, shout at the world you are MINE kind of love. Just perfect :)
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
The tough President of the Disciple's of the Road has to live by the code of brotherhood within the MC. He sets an example for his men and needs to stand up for his club amongst other clubs. Not all clubs are as open as Mal has been in accepting gay men into his fold.
Sawyer is from one of those clubs that although they know he is Bi, they don't necessarily like it. Mal has been nothing but supportive to Sawyer through the whole ordeal their clubs fought in previous books. It was wonderful to see this deep friendship morph into something more. And Malachi, God love him, once he got the ok from Sawyer to just do what felt right.....whew.....that man took over. He made Sawyer his in every way. Even better, he shows he is all in by declaring Sawyer his in front of his club and eventually in front of Sawyer's. So very Alpha!
A short read but full of some off the charts steam. What makes this so worth the read is the LOVE! Dreamy, can't keep my hands off you, need to have you forever, shout at the world you are MINE kind of love. Just perfect :)
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
December 10, 2017
This was a perfect way to round out the story of Mal and Sawyer and bring this world to a close. Mal captured my heart in The Darkest Flame but now "owns" it after The Faintest Spark. He is such a kind and loving man in a vicious world. And traveling his journey of falling for Sawyer is a thing of tremendous emotion and blazing HOT intimacy. And I love how this author brings seemingly impossible situations to a rightful destination as love always triumphs in the end. The ending was a bit too abrupt for me and I would have liked an epilogue with a bit more of a concrete HEA. But maybe that's just because I didn't want to let these two go. They're one of those couples that stays with you. It appears the author is going to put this series to rest but I really would have liked to see a Felix/Jonas pairing and Fish needs a special guy in his life as well. I'll keep my fingers crossed for her to reconsider? But as for Mal and Sawyer, 5 stars without a doubt! ;)
April 5, 2017
This definitely had a lot more of a romantic vibe than I had imagined. Fans of The Darkest Flame will enjoy this quick peek into what happened to Mal and Sawyer.
Although it could be read as a standalone I wouldn't recommend it. This reads as a kind of epilogue and without the backstory of book 1 this isn't much more than a story of two men getting together. But knowing the complicated history of Sawyers sacrifice for the club as well as the friendship and emotional connection the two men developed, it's easier to ignore that there's not a lot here in terms of a story.
There's no doubt that this was well written, but there was a lot of 'telling' here and that's what disappointed me in the end.
Although it could be read as a standalone I wouldn't recommend it. This reads as a kind of epilogue and without the backstory of book 1 this isn't much more than a story of two men getting together. But knowing the complicated history of Sawyers sacrifice for the club as well as the friendship and emotional connection the two men developed, it's easier to ignore that there's not a lot here in terms of a story.
There's no doubt that this was well written, but there was a lot of 'telling' here and that's what disappointed me in the end.
June 29, 2017
6 'Oh yes this is exactly what I love. Not just love I fucking love these types of books. Hard as nails guys, with a beautiful connection. Not to mention smoking hot chemistry and even hotter sex scenes. Their journey was full of obstacles both from the present and the past but it made their ending all the more satisfying. LOVED THIS, LOVED THEM' stars.
August 23, 2017
Loved that we got Mal and Sawyer's story.
Recommended!
April 6, 2018
3,5 stars
August 19, 2017
Good story
3.5 stars
I really liked these 2 characters a lot. Very sweet, no angst story. I haven't read book 1 in a while and didn't really remember that story but had no trouble enjoying this book.
3.5 stars
I really liked these 2 characters a lot. Very sweet, no angst story. I haven't read book 1 in a while and didn't really remember that story but had no trouble enjoying this book.
December 9, 2018
This was pretty darn good for a novella! I enjoyed the MCs quite a bit and even though there wasn't a huge amount of storyline, it was still solid and a great addition to book one!
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