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FireWorks Security #1
Leap of Faith
Close friends and partners at FireWorks Security, Joel Weston and Kieran Ross know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. They have each other’s backs, make a formidable team, and carefully ignore their volatile chemistry.
When Kieran struggles with the aftermath of an assignment gone wrong, Joel is there to help. When Joel is caught in an explosion, Kieran jumps into a burning marina to rescue the man who means so much to him. But they never discuss what’s closest to their hearts, not prepared to risk their friendship for the mere possibility of something more.
Faced with bombs, assassins and old ghosts, Joel and Kieran must find out why they’re targets, who is after them and—most of all—how each would feel if he lost the other. Can they continue as best friends, or is it time to take a leap of faith?
When Kieran struggles with the aftermath of an assignment gone wrong, Joel is there to help. When Joel is caught in an explosion, Kieran jumps into a burning marina to rescue the man who means so much to him. But they never discuss what’s closest to their hearts, not prepared to risk their friendship for the mere possibility of something more.
Faced with bombs, assassins and old ghosts, Joel and Kieran must find out why they’re targets, who is after them and—most of all—how each would feel if he lost the other. Can they continue as best friends, or is it time to take a leap of faith?
125 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2017
11 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Keswick
47 books137 followersJackie Keswick writes a mix of suspense, action adventure, fantasy and magical realism. She loves stories with layers, plots with twists and characters with hidden depths. She adores friends to lovers stories, tales of unexpected reunions and second chances, and men who write their own rules. She blogs about English history and food, has a thing for green eyes, and is a great believer in making up soundtracks for everything, including her characters and the cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
December 8, 2018
Bless my heart! This story did not only keep the main characters in suspense, but me too...
When I was offered the ARC for Leap of Faith I was all shining eyes and toothy grin, just because of the blurb alone. This is so my kind of book: a friends to lovers romance wrapped in a mystery/suspense plot with a whole load of action. For the most part, the story kept its promise, so much so that my eyes were glued to my Kindle and I read it in one go.
Joel Weston and Kieran Ross are partners at FireWorks Security. They are also best friends since the day Kieran began to work for the organization of Joel's father which is specializing in kidnappings, extortion and hostage situations.
They rely on each other.
They keep an eye on each other.
They complement each other in every possible way.
Two sides of the same coin.
Both men just clicked from the moment they met and teamed up to such an extent that neither one dares to admit to himself -much less to the other- that there are deeper feelings in play. They refuse to pursue their chemistry from fear of risking their friendship or their teamwork.
When a hostage situation hits too close to home and subsequently someone tries to kill them at every turn, both men have to deal with their feelings for each other eventually, but also with ghosts of the past, both to overcome their fear and to get to the bottom of things.
I instantly connected with the characters, albeit a bit more with Kieran. That did not surprise me at all, because it is a fact that I have a penchant for tortured heroes and Kieran matched this paradigm to a T with his PTSD and his compassion which leads to letting the fate of every victim of a crime get to him.
Compared to Kieran, Joel remained a bit pale for me, but since this is the first in a new series, I'm pretty sure that will change with the books to come. What I loved about him is his dedication to keep Kieran safe at all costs and to make Kieran feel safe no matter what. He has a somewhat bossy attitude while doing his job, but likes to let it all go when it comes to Kieran dominating him in bed.
Normally, I am the one who complains about not enough depth in a novella, not enough time to form a basis for a story, but this is not the case here. Like I said, this is the beginning of a series and the author manages to introduce the setting right down to the last detail, be it the location or the structure and tasks of the organization.
On the one hand, it did not feel like a short story. There is so much happening in this book and the roughly 12o pages are filled with adrenaline-level-boosting action scenes, which made me breathless while ensconcing myself in my comfy armchair. Some people might complain that the romance took a bit of a backseat, but you are dealing with an ultimate slow-burn lover here, so the gradual progress of the relationship just sealed the deal for me to enjoy it. I felt the connection between Joel and Kieren everytime they were together and this kind of relationship needs development, which obviously cannot be established within a few pages.
On the other hand, I still wish the story would have been longer. My main niggle about it is that there was sometimes too much telling and not enough showing, be it regarding sex scenes - the first real sex scene was off-page, goddammit! - or conversations I would have liked to read about and not just being told afterwards that they took place. The sex scenes that were there made up for the lack of those non-explicit, though. Kieran's kink are mirrors and -holy moly- that was really hot...
The story ends on -um, no... no worries, not on a cliffhanger, at least not regarding the relationship, which can be considered as a HFN - but on a not solved case which will keep the main characters -and I'm pretty sure the reader as well- busy in the next installment.
This was the first book for me from this author, but definitely not the last. I like her writing and she was able to make me curious about both, the further course of events in this story and also about her other works.
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
When I was offered the ARC for Leap of Faith I was all shining eyes and toothy grin, just because of the blurb alone. This is so my kind of book: a friends to lovers romance wrapped in a mystery/suspense plot with a whole load of action. For the most part, the story kept its promise, so much so that my eyes were glued to my Kindle and I read it in one go.
Joel Weston and Kieran Ross are partners at FireWorks Security. They are also best friends since the day Kieran began to work for the organization of Joel's father which is specializing in kidnappings, extortion and hostage situations.
They rely on each other.
They keep an eye on each other.
They complement each other in every possible way.
Two sides of the same coin.
Both men just clicked from the moment they met and teamed up to such an extent that neither one dares to admit to himself -much less to the other- that there are deeper feelings in play. They refuse to pursue their chemistry from fear of risking their friendship or their teamwork.
Joel had no idea how to phrase what he meant to say. "We're good as a team. We're good as friends. We both worked hard to get this far. Going any further could ruin everything."
When a hostage situation hits too close to home and subsequently someone tries to kill them at every turn, both men have to deal with their feelings for each other eventually, but also with ghosts of the past, both to overcome their fear and to get to the bottom of things.
I instantly connected with the characters, albeit a bit more with Kieran. That did not surprise me at all, because it is a fact that I have a penchant for tortured heroes and Kieran matched this paradigm to a T with his PTSD and his compassion which leads to letting the fate of every victim of a crime get to him.
Compared to Kieran, Joel remained a bit pale for me, but since this is the first in a new series, I'm pretty sure that will change with the books to come. What I loved about him is his dedication to keep Kieran safe at all costs and to make Kieran feel safe no matter what. He has a somewhat bossy attitude while doing his job, but likes to let it all go when it comes to Kieran dominating him in bed.
Normally, I am the one who complains about not enough depth in a novella, not enough time to form a basis for a story, but this is not the case here. Like I said, this is the beginning of a series and the author manages to introduce the setting right down to the last detail, be it the location or the structure and tasks of the organization.
On the one hand, it did not feel like a short story. There is so much happening in this book and the roughly 12o pages are filled with adrenaline-level-boosting action scenes, which made me breathless while ensconcing myself in my comfy armchair. Some people might complain that the romance took a bit of a backseat, but you are dealing with an ultimate slow-burn lover here, so the gradual progress of the relationship just sealed the deal for me to enjoy it. I felt the connection between Joel and Kieren everytime they were together and this kind of relationship needs development, which obviously cannot be established within a few pages.
On the other hand, I still wish the story would have been longer. My main niggle about it is that there was sometimes too much telling and not enough showing, be it regarding sex scenes - the first real sex scene was off-page, goddammit! - or conversations I would have liked to read about and not just being told afterwards that they took place. The sex scenes that were there made up for the lack of those non-explicit, though. Kieran's kink are mirrors and -holy moly- that was really hot...
The story ends on -um, no... no worries, not on a cliffhanger, at least not regarding the relationship, which can be considered as a HFN - but on a not solved case which will keep the main characters -and I'm pretty sure the reader as well- busy in the next installment.
This was the first book for me from this author, but definitely not the last. I like her writing and she was able to make me curious about both, the further course of events in this story and also about her other works.
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
March 16, 2017
Leap of Faith is the first book in Jackie Keswick's new FireWorks Security series and as such, a lot of the book is spent providing details about FireWorks Security, its home base in Lissand, Connecticut, its mission of dealing with kidnappings, extortion, and hostage situations all over the country and its operatives Rob Sutter, Aaron Rigby, Tom Hartnett, Cass Gallagher, Joseph and Dale Weston, Dr. Marius Leven, Joel Weston and Kiernan Ross.
Joel and Kiernan, partners for four years, had chemistry from the moment they met and once they finally connect (around 66%), the sex is combustible. Turns out Kiernan has a thing for mirrors:
My rating for Leap of Faith is 3 stars, but since is the first book in a series, I will definitely read the next book to see if the flow of the story is less cluttered.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
Joel and Kiernan, partners for four years, had chemistry from the moment they met and once they finally connect (around 66%), the sex is combustible. Turns out Kiernan has a thing for mirrors:
He [Joel] pushed back against what was now a sizeable erection and grumbled, “Just fuck me already, Ross. Like this. I wanna watch.” Because now he wanted to see what they looked like together. Wanted to see what he looked like when Kieran had his ass. Heaven knew he’d fantasized about it often enough.However, with all the background information and a kitchen sink of crises packed into a 125 page novella, personally I felt there was just too much going on and the romance element was very minimal. While Joel and Kiernan get their HFN, the story abruptly ends; however, the next book in the series continues with the underlying mystery / suspense / criminal investigation element.
My rating for Leap of Faith is 3 stars, but since is the first book in a series, I will definitely read the next book to see if the flow of the story is less cluttered.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
May 5, 2017
I read Job Hunt when it first came out and enjoyed it so much, I grabbed Ghosts and House Hunt as soon as I could. I was anxiously awaiting this new series. I did enjoy this quite a lot, since this type of action-packed story is always a favorite. There's so much activity packed into a novella of this length. Kieran and Joel have been partners for four years, working for Fireworks Security, which specializes in hostage recovery. Both have military backgrounds and suffer from bad memories, more so with Kieran, who has some PTSD. Their connection and chemistry is established early on but like most friends-to-lovers tropes, they're leery of breaking up their friendship and working partnership.
The characterizations are quite good, including secondary characters who will appear in the series, I'm sure. Unfortunately, I can't say as much for the plot. It does end with a HFN for the couple but I couldn't quite untangle the plot strings left dangling, to understand where the story arc might be heading. Joel's history as an undercover DEA agent was a key element, however there were references throughout but mostly near the end that made me feel like I missed some revelation in the story. Despite skimming back I could not find what was referred to. So it made the story become somewhat confusing and incomplete for me. That makes me want the next book even more though, since I hope I'll get the explanation. Based on the prior series, I'm quite sure that I'll get all the background I'm looking for.
Of note, the setting is a city near Boston but there were parts of the narrative that had a distinctly British flavor. Not extreme, just a word or phrase here and there. Not truly important to my enjoyment, it just makes it clear American is not the author's first language. Also, the story contains only one actual sex scene, with a couple of others fade to black. I mention this for readers who are dissatisfied without substantial steam in their stories. Ratings should never be based on the quantity of sex scenes! Just sayin'.
The characterizations are quite good, including secondary characters who will appear in the series, I'm sure. Unfortunately, I can't say as much for the plot. It does end with a HFN for the couple but I couldn't quite untangle the plot strings left dangling, to understand where the story arc might be heading. Joel's history as an undercover DEA agent was a key element, however there were references throughout but mostly near the end that made me feel like I missed some revelation in the story. Despite skimming back I could not find what was referred to. So it made the story become somewhat confusing and incomplete for me. That makes me want the next book even more though, since I hope I'll get the explanation. Based on the prior series, I'm quite sure that I'll get all the background I'm looking for.
Of note, the setting is a city near Boston but there were parts of the narrative that had a distinctly British flavor. Not extreme, just a word or phrase here and there. Not truly important to my enjoyment, it just makes it clear American is not the author's first language. Also, the story contains only one actual sex scene, with a couple of others fade to black. I mention this for readers who are dissatisfied without substantial steam in their stories. Ratings should never be based on the quantity of sex scenes! Just sayin'.
November 5, 2019
2,5 stars for all the right ingredients but not getting it quite right
This should have been so much better than it really was. The dynamic between Kieran and Joel reminded me of those tough guy friendships fan!girls love to ship on TV in the best way. Two guys throwing themselves into the line of fire for each other on a daily basis, being physically affectionate and basically 'married' - what's not to like right?
Well, the fact that there's a shit ton of telling and not a lot of showing. Also, that the writing is a bit too awkward at times.
The real problem is the shocking lack of actual romance though. Jackie Keswick wants to sell these guys as having basically pined after each other with hearteyes for YEARS. Problem is that we as readers seem to now be joining at the point where they finally get their acts together and it's honestly very anticlimactic if you haven't spent the same amount of time invested in them. They get together and then the story is pretty much over.
The balance between action/adventure and romance is just off and nothing about the rest of the book is interesting enough to be rated higher without that payoff.
This should have been so much better than it really was. The dynamic between Kieran and Joel reminded me of those tough guy friendships fan!girls love to ship on TV in the best way. Two guys throwing themselves into the line of fire for each other on a daily basis, being physically affectionate and basically 'married' - what's not to like right?
Well, the fact that there's a shit ton of telling and not a lot of showing. Also, that the writing is a bit too awkward at times.
The real problem is the shocking lack of actual romance though. Jackie Keswick wants to sell these guys as having basically pined after each other with hearteyes for YEARS. Problem is that we as readers seem to now be joining at the point where they finally get their acts together and it's honestly very anticlimactic if you haven't spent the same amount of time invested in them. They get together and then the story is pretty much over.
The balance between action/adventure and romance is just off and nothing about the rest of the book is interesting enough to be rated higher without that payoff.
April 18, 2017
I do love me a really great friends to lovers story. Add a well written mystery filled with breath stealing suspense and I'm all in!
Kieran and Joel are best friends who also work together as partners for Firework Securities. They are the type of friends that are rare. They are so in tune with each other and depend on each other in so many ways. Their chemistry is so off the charts I knew they wouldn't be able to hold out forever!
Their jobs are dangerous and we see that in this story. What they do for a living really makes them appreciate that. Especially when their current hostage case brings huge realizations.
For a long novella this story packed a heck of a punch. It was super entertaining. Great character development especially with Kieran. He's a really well written character. I felt the depth and the emotion he brought with him and I loved him. I look forward to more from Joel in the coming books. Aside from his love and loyalty to Kieran I didn't really get to see too much.
I'm excited for more books in this series. If the others are as great as this one we're looking at a wonderful series.
Kieran and Joel are best friends who also work together as partners for Firework Securities. They are the type of friends that are rare. They are so in tune with each other and depend on each other in so many ways. Their chemistry is so off the charts I knew they wouldn't be able to hold out forever!
Their jobs are dangerous and we see that in this story. What they do for a living really makes them appreciate that. Especially when their current hostage case brings huge realizations.
For a long novella this story packed a heck of a punch. It was super entertaining. Great character development especially with Kieran. He's a really well written character. I felt the depth and the emotion he brought with him and I loved him. I look forward to more from Joel in the coming books. Aside from his love and loyalty to Kieran I didn't really get to see too much.
I'm excited for more books in this series. If the others are as great as this one we're looking at a wonderful series.
May 26, 2017
Good action scenes but I wanted more
Leap of faith is a bit hard to review. I really enjoyed some aspects of it, but was thrown off enough by other elements that it never fully captured my attention. I enjoy romantic suspense and police procedurals- on TV and in books- so this title should be a perfect match. In terms of the action scenes and the crime plotline, it was. However, I always felt like I was behind or in the dark. Not in the fun, suspense-filled or plot twist way, but in that questioning, lost sense where you wonder if you missed a chapter or two. Twice I checked to see if this was part of a series or maybe a spin-off of a series because there were references to past scenarios, cases, or developing relationships between the heroes and within the security firm where the heroes work. While these mentions established a history between the characters, it never fully divulged the details to the reader and ultimately meant I never connected fully with the story or characters.
The romance was handled similarly. There were clear feelings between Kieran and Joel and the chemistry was palpable, but the romance was relegated to a subplot. Normally, I’d be okay with this because I like the suspense and investigative portions of the plot so much, but the lack of detail and mentions of previous interactions within both Kieran and Joel’s partnership and personal relationship compiled to leave me even more frustrated and feeling like I missed something major.
Although I struggled a lot with the lack of background and details setting up the scenes and relationships, I did find the characters interesting. I just wish I knew or understood more of their nuances and the scenarios that led to the current state of the case and Joel and Kieran’s relationship. The case itself and the idea of Kieran’s past work with the DEA coming into play were definitely intriguing, but again, I wanted more. My favorite part of the book was definitely the action scenes. They were done really well- the pace reflected the suspense and excitement and everything read clearly enough to envision things as they unfolded. I think if the characters and plot were a bit more developed in front of the reader rather than hinted at, I would have really loved Leap of Faith. As this is my first experience with the author and I did like the base personalities of the characters and plotline, I may try the second in the series to see if things come together a bit more.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
Leap of faith is a bit hard to review. I really enjoyed some aspects of it, but was thrown off enough by other elements that it never fully captured my attention. I enjoy romantic suspense and police procedurals- on TV and in books- so this title should be a perfect match. In terms of the action scenes and the crime plotline, it was. However, I always felt like I was behind or in the dark. Not in the fun, suspense-filled or plot twist way, but in that questioning, lost sense where you wonder if you missed a chapter or two. Twice I checked to see if this was part of a series or maybe a spin-off of a series because there were references to past scenarios, cases, or developing relationships between the heroes and within the security firm where the heroes work. While these mentions established a history between the characters, it never fully divulged the details to the reader and ultimately meant I never connected fully with the story or characters.
The romance was handled similarly. There were clear feelings between Kieran and Joel and the chemistry was palpable, but the romance was relegated to a subplot. Normally, I’d be okay with this because I like the suspense and investigative portions of the plot so much, but the lack of detail and mentions of previous interactions within both Kieran and Joel’s partnership and personal relationship compiled to leave me even more frustrated and feeling like I missed something major.
Although I struggled a lot with the lack of background and details setting up the scenes and relationships, I did find the characters interesting. I just wish I knew or understood more of their nuances and the scenarios that led to the current state of the case and Joel and Kieran’s relationship. The case itself and the idea of Kieran’s past work with the DEA coming into play were definitely intriguing, but again, I wanted more. My favorite part of the book was definitely the action scenes. They were done really well- the pace reflected the suspense and excitement and everything read clearly enough to envision things as they unfolded. I think if the characters and plot were a bit more developed in front of the reader rather than hinted at, I would have really loved Leap of Faith. As this is my first experience with the author and I did like the base personalities of the characters and plotline, I may try the second in the series to see if things come together a bit more.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
April 8, 2017
A hostage situation gone wrong finds Joel Weston watching over his long-time working partner, Kiernan Ross, and he prays it’s not a suicide watch—Kiernan has seen more than his fair share of devastation working undercover for the DEA. Both men are loyal partners and friends who each struggle with their feelings for the other. When a disagreement with his DEA bosses costs Joel his job, he takes Kiernan to Lissand, Connecticut, where he settles to work out his demons and begin a career at FireWorks Security, a firm owned and run by the Weston family. When Joel needs a distraction, and decides they both need a break, he goes out on a meet up with the team. The distraction, however, leads to Kiernan saving Joel’s life after a series of deadly yacht explosions.
Joel is seriously injured and under Kiernan’s watchful eye in the hospital. When one too many dangerous and suspicious situations occur, Kiernan’s ready to move Joel somewhere safe. With the help of Dr. Dale Weston and Dr. Marius Leven, they get Joel out of the hospital. But not without someone following them, and Kiernan puts his life on the line to get all three men out of harm’s way.
Who are these people? What do they want? Kiernan didn’t see anything unusual; he was too focused on saving Joel. Joel can’t remember what he saw at the marina. When no backup shows up at the hospital, does it mean that FireWorks has been compromised? What will happen when Joseph Weston, Joel’s father, comes back to town? And what about Dr. Leven, what secrets does he keep hidden?
Jackie Keswick delivers with this action-packed suspense thriller, and I can’t wait for the sequel. This was an absolute page turner for me. Kiernan and Joel have great chemistry at the beginning, as partners and friends, but throw in a little jealousy and things really start to heat up.
Leap of Faith offers an in-depth look at most of the characters. Dr. Leven is interesting, and I hope there’s more of him coming in future books. Joseph Weston was a very dynamic and take charge character as well. The story is descriptive in the action and has a plot that will keep you riveted. This is an excellent read for those who crave an intense mystery.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach Reviews
Joel is seriously injured and under Kiernan’s watchful eye in the hospital. When one too many dangerous and suspicious situations occur, Kiernan’s ready to move Joel somewhere safe. With the help of Dr. Dale Weston and Dr. Marius Leven, they get Joel out of the hospital. But not without someone following them, and Kiernan puts his life on the line to get all three men out of harm’s way.
Who are these people? What do they want? Kiernan didn’t see anything unusual; he was too focused on saving Joel. Joel can’t remember what he saw at the marina. When no backup shows up at the hospital, does it mean that FireWorks has been compromised? What will happen when Joseph Weston, Joel’s father, comes back to town? And what about Dr. Leven, what secrets does he keep hidden?
Jackie Keswick delivers with this action-packed suspense thriller, and I can’t wait for the sequel. This was an absolute page turner for me. Kiernan and Joel have great chemistry at the beginning, as partners and friends, but throw in a little jealousy and things really start to heat up.
Leap of Faith offers an in-depth look at most of the characters. Dr. Leven is interesting, and I hope there’s more of him coming in future books. Joseph Weston was a very dynamic and take charge character as well. The story is descriptive in the action and has a plot that will keep you riveted. This is an excellent read for those who crave an intense mystery.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach Reviews
April 1, 2017
2.5 stars
‘Leap of Faith’ by Jackie Keswick is the first book in the ‘FireWorks Security’ series and thus provides the necessary introduction to the various characters who are involved in the security firm. Our MCs here are Joel Weston, son of the security firm’s CEO and Kieran Ross, Joel’s long-time partner and best friend.
The story starts off with a bang as Joel and Kieran unknowingly gets involved in a crime. Next thing they know, there are explosions and hitmen dogging their heels as Kieran tries to keep them safe and alive, while also solving the crime that started everything. In midst of the danger, action and adrenaline, Kieran and Joel finally act on their attraction between each other which was cooking for four long years.
For a novella, the plot moved very slowly IMO. Till 50% of the mark, one of the MCs is out of commission as he recovers from injury. Then the story awkwardly stumbles upon the romance as the friends become lovers. There was a lot of stuff happening without proper focus on any one particular thing.
The romance was not the highlight of the story, much to my disappointment. After Joel and Kieran’s kinky romps in bed, the plot plunges into the crime completely. But then the story abruptly ended and left me hanging with a whole bunch of questions.
I think that more balance between the action and the romance was required. There was a little bit of everything without a proper conclusion so I was disappointed a lot.
It’s a start of a series so hopefully we will get more of the MCs as well as the others in the next books as well as a proper conclusion to the ongoing crime. Though this book had great promise, I didn’t enjoy it enough to give it a higher rating. I am going with ‘2.5’.
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
‘Leap of Faith’ by Jackie Keswick is the first book in the ‘FireWorks Security’ series and thus provides the necessary introduction to the various characters who are involved in the security firm. Our MCs here are Joel Weston, son of the security firm’s CEO and Kieran Ross, Joel’s long-time partner and best friend.
The story starts off with a bang as Joel and Kieran unknowingly gets involved in a crime. Next thing they know, there are explosions and hitmen dogging their heels as Kieran tries to keep them safe and alive, while also solving the crime that started everything. In midst of the danger, action and adrenaline, Kieran and Joel finally act on their attraction between each other which was cooking for four long years.
For a novella, the plot moved very slowly IMO. Till 50% of the mark, one of the MCs is out of commission as he recovers from injury. Then the story awkwardly stumbles upon the romance as the friends become lovers. There was a lot of stuff happening without proper focus on any one particular thing.
The romance was not the highlight of the story, much to my disappointment. After Joel and Kieran’s kinky romps in bed, the plot plunges into the crime completely. But then the story abruptly ended and left me hanging with a whole bunch of questions.
I think that more balance between the action and the romance was required. There was a little bit of everything without a proper conclusion so I was disappointed a lot.
It’s a start of a series so hopefully we will get more of the MCs as well as the others in the next books as well as a proper conclusion to the ongoing crime. Though this book had great promise, I didn’t enjoy it enough to give it a higher rating. I am going with ‘2.5’.
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
April 1, 2017
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Full of adventure and suspense, this friends to lover story had me enthralled from the first explosion. As the first book in a new series, this story introduces readers to Fireworks Security and the highly skilled men who work for the company. In this first book, explosions, chase scenes, and drug wars make this an exciting read. The spark between long term partners Kieran and Joel develops into a special romance between two battle-hardened men.
Romance between law enforcement/military partners is a familiar trope in m/m romantic suspense. While Kieran and Joel aren’t the most thoroughly developed pairing in this genre, they do work well together. Kieran’s experiences as an undercover DEA agent complement Joel’s military skills. Unlike characters in many similar series, there is no conflict between these two. They are fast friends and loyal partners from the outset. I never completely understood why they had stayed platonic for so long. The conflict they experience is the threat to life as a result of their experiences in the story. Joel is caught in an explosion, Kieran is tortured by terrorists…
M/M romantic suspense is a genre full of brilliant series and unforgettable characters. Kieran and Joel aren’t as unique, quirky or funny as some of my favourite men in similar series but I enjoyed their romance and I loved the action in this story. There are several interesting men introduced in this book and I will definitely be looking out for the next story in the series.
Full of adventure and suspense, this friends to lover story had me enthralled from the first explosion. As the first book in a new series, this story introduces readers to Fireworks Security and the highly skilled men who work for the company. In this first book, explosions, chase scenes, and drug wars make this an exciting read. The spark between long term partners Kieran and Joel develops into a special romance between two battle-hardened men.
Romance between law enforcement/military partners is a familiar trope in m/m romantic suspense. While Kieran and Joel aren’t the most thoroughly developed pairing in this genre, they do work well together. Kieran’s experiences as an undercover DEA agent complement Joel’s military skills. Unlike characters in many similar series, there is no conflict between these two. They are fast friends and loyal partners from the outset. I never completely understood why they had stayed platonic for so long. The conflict they experience is the threat to life as a result of their experiences in the story. Joel is caught in an explosion, Kieran is tortured by terrorists…
M/M romantic suspense is a genre full of brilliant series and unforgettable characters. Kieran and Joel aren’t as unique, quirky or funny as some of my favourite men in similar series but I enjoyed their romance and I loved the action in this story. There are several interesting men introduced in this book and I will definitely be looking out for the next story in the series.
April 5, 2017
4.5 STARS
Full review at: https://optimummblog.wordpress.com/20...
This book was a surprising little page-turner of a story. I was totally captivated from the start and was pretty gutted reading the last page because I wanted there to be more. It was almost everything I could have wanted in a book. There was action, mystery, edge-of-your-seat suspense and romance. A perfect little package really.
Joel Weston is an Army veteran who works for FireWorks Security, which is owned by his dad and uncle. His partner, Kieran Ross, an ex-DEA agent, has worked for the company for the last 4 years. Kieran is suffering from emotional distress after an innocent woman is killed by a suspect who had taken her hostage when he was trying to escape. Kieran blames himself for not being able to save the woman and hasn’t coped well since the incident. Joel’s father sends Joel to keep a close eye on Kieran to make sure he doesn’t come to any harm. Joel decides one of the days at Kieran’s house that enough is enough and Kieran needs to sort himself out, he suggests that they meet up with some other members of their team for lunch and an afternoon of fun. During their day out, the two men are passing the marina when they hear a woman scream and a man shouting. They run towards the commotion and see that the man is holding a child at gunpoint and pulling him towards a yacht in what looks like a domestic dispute. Joel doesn’t hesitate and chases the man on to the boat, almost as soon as he steps onto the yacht there’s an explosion which sends him and a lot of debris flying into the water. Kieran sees this and is consumed by worry and fear for his partner and friend. Without a second thought, he jumps into the water to try and rescue Joel and the young boy.
Kieran has been attracted to Joel for a long time, but has always hidden his feelings for the other man and has no intention of ever acting on them as he doesn’t want to lose or ruin the very close friendship and bond that they have. This brush with death brings out a very protective side of Kieran, and he doesn’t want Joel out of his sight and refuses to leave him on his own, even at the hospital. What Kieran doesn’t realise, is Joel has been having the same feelings and desires for him too, and is also scared of doing anything that would take their friendship to the next stage. The men and their team soon discover that everything is not as it seems, and what they thought was an accident at a marina is actually a complex plot that involves drugs, smuggling, assassination attempts and the cartel.
This book was the first I have read from this author, and I really liked it. It was well written, with a very interesting plot/storyline that wouldn’t be out of place on any well-known TV cop show. I was a little disappointed that sex scenes were short and that there were only a few but as it isn’t marketed as erotica then I guess I can’t really make a big deal of it. What I will say is that the book has an open ending, most questions are left unanswered for what I can only assume will be follow up books, even though it doesn’t state that it’s the first book of a series. It doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, which is good because I don’t think I could have waited in suspense for however long it takes for the next one to be released hehehe. A very enjoyable read and I would definitely recommend it if you like stories with a little bit of action and adventure along with the romance.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
Full review at: https://optimummblog.wordpress.com/20...
This book was a surprising little page-turner of a story. I was totally captivated from the start and was pretty gutted reading the last page because I wanted there to be more. It was almost everything I could have wanted in a book. There was action, mystery, edge-of-your-seat suspense and romance. A perfect little package really.
Joel Weston is an Army veteran who works for FireWorks Security, which is owned by his dad and uncle. His partner, Kieran Ross, an ex-DEA agent, has worked for the company for the last 4 years. Kieran is suffering from emotional distress after an innocent woman is killed by a suspect who had taken her hostage when he was trying to escape. Kieran blames himself for not being able to save the woman and hasn’t coped well since the incident. Joel’s father sends Joel to keep a close eye on Kieran to make sure he doesn’t come to any harm. Joel decides one of the days at Kieran’s house that enough is enough and Kieran needs to sort himself out, he suggests that they meet up with some other members of their team for lunch and an afternoon of fun. During their day out, the two men are passing the marina when they hear a woman scream and a man shouting. They run towards the commotion and see that the man is holding a child at gunpoint and pulling him towards a yacht in what looks like a domestic dispute. Joel doesn’t hesitate and chases the man on to the boat, almost as soon as he steps onto the yacht there’s an explosion which sends him and a lot of debris flying into the water. Kieran sees this and is consumed by worry and fear for his partner and friend. Without a second thought, he jumps into the water to try and rescue Joel and the young boy.
Kieran has been attracted to Joel for a long time, but has always hidden his feelings for the other man and has no intention of ever acting on them as he doesn’t want to lose or ruin the very close friendship and bond that they have. This brush with death brings out a very protective side of Kieran, and he doesn’t want Joel out of his sight and refuses to leave him on his own, even at the hospital. What Kieran doesn’t realise, is Joel has been having the same feelings and desires for him too, and is also scared of doing anything that would take their friendship to the next stage. The men and their team soon discover that everything is not as it seems, and what they thought was an accident at a marina is actually a complex plot that involves drugs, smuggling, assassination attempts and the cartel.
This book was the first I have read from this author, and I really liked it. It was well written, with a very interesting plot/storyline that wouldn’t be out of place on any well-known TV cop show. I was a little disappointed that sex scenes were short and that there were only a few but as it isn’t marketed as erotica then I guess I can’t really make a big deal of it. What I will say is that the book has an open ending, most questions are left unanswered for what I can only assume will be follow up books, even though it doesn’t state that it’s the first book of a series. It doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, which is good because I don’t think I could have waited in suspense for however long it takes for the next one to be released hehehe. A very enjoyable read and I would definitely recommend it if you like stories with a little bit of action and adventure along with the romance.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book***
August 25, 2018
I just saw that I obviousely did not write a review for the first time I read it ... so as this is the second time for this book you can imagine that it isnot bad ;)
actually I really liked it. I think Kieran and Joel are a great couple. I loved how their relationship developed. I loved that they did not really doubt each other and that the supense part really comes from the story .... but they are a lot of open questions left, so I really hope we will read more of them as a couple as well as the other characters
actually I really liked it. I think Kieran and Joel are a great couple. I loved how their relationship developed. I loved that they did not really doubt each other and that the supense part really comes from the story .... but they are a lot of open questions left, so I really hope we will read more of them as a couple as well as the other characters
Read
March 31, 2017Rating: 3.25 stars
Review to follow at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.
ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review to follow at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.
ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Read
November 8, 2019I didn't realize going in that this was going to be so inconclusive as to the actual plot.
The unresolved (and then resolved) sexual tension between the two MCs was good, although they spent an awful lot of the pages being injured and recuperating. At least that was treated realistically.
The unresolved (and then resolved) sexual tension between the two MCs was good, although they spent an awful lot of the pages being injured and recuperating. At least that was treated realistically.
April 12, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
The books brings us up close and personal with FireWorks Security as that is the main focus. Joel and Kieran are a great team, but they are constantly in dangerous situations where one of them is inevitably getting hurt. This last injury almost took Joel’s life and Kieran wouldn’t stand for that.
Kieran’s last partner was killed when he was on assignment with the DEA and the nightmares are never far away. He has come to like the small town he currently lives in and his friendship with Joel is everything. The story is told more from Kieran’s POV, with some overlap from Joel, and we are shown glimpses of how he longs for Joel but would never do anything to hinder their friendship.
The majority of the book is the set up of the business and the cases they are working on, but it’s not all that clear what kind of clients hire them. The boat explosion wasn’t their specific case, but something they stumbled upon and now they have assassins after them. Their work was interesting, but at the 60% mark of the book, which is a shorter novel, the men are not together yet and don’t even know they both harbor feelings for the other. The style made the guys seem removed as a romantic pair. We are not given much on their personal lives either from early on or even the past few years when they have been partners.
When the men do get together, we are shown the abridged version. I kept waiting for the dangerous situation they were in to start wrapping up and the relationship to move forward, but that’s not what this book is. The storyline will continue into the next book and it all became unnecessarily complicated. There were also several characters that we meet along the way and their purpose or how they would fit in wasn’t all that clear.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3 stars
The books brings us up close and personal with FireWorks Security as that is the main focus. Joel and Kieran are a great team, but they are constantly in dangerous situations where one of them is inevitably getting hurt. This last injury almost took Joel’s life and Kieran wouldn’t stand for that.
Kieran’s last partner was killed when he was on assignment with the DEA and the nightmares are never far away. He has come to like the small town he currently lives in and his friendship with Joel is everything. The story is told more from Kieran’s POV, with some overlap from Joel, and we are shown glimpses of how he longs for Joel but would never do anything to hinder their friendship.
The majority of the book is the set up of the business and the cases they are working on, but it’s not all that clear what kind of clients hire them. The boat explosion wasn’t their specific case, but something they stumbled upon and now they have assassins after them. Their work was interesting, but at the 60% mark of the book, which is a shorter novel, the men are not together yet and don’t even know they both harbor feelings for the other. The style made the guys seem removed as a romantic pair. We are not given much on their personal lives either from early on or even the past few years when they have been partners.
When the men do get together, we are shown the abridged version. I kept waiting for the dangerous situation they were in to start wrapping up and the relationship to move forward, but that’s not what this book is. The storyline will continue into the next book and it all became unnecessarily complicated. There were also several characters that we meet along the way and their purpose or how they would fit in wasn’t all that clear.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
May 5, 2017
3 Stars!
I absolutely hate finishing a book and feeling like I have a whole bunch of questions that never got answered. If I'm prepared ahead of time and know going into the book that it's going to end in a HFN as opposed to a HEA,I don't really mind. However,when I don't even feel as if it were anobvious HFN,then I'm just not satisfied.
I may be in the minority with this one but the thing is, I didn't really get this book. I just felt like I was going through the motions as I read it and I kept waiting to feel something for the story or the characters. It wasn't that the writing was bad because the writing was well done, but from the very first page, I felt lost. It was as if the story picked up in the middle of a chapter or something and I never felt caught up.
I wasn't able to get a good connection with Joel's character and while I liked that he cared so much for Kieran and that he was willing to do anything to protect him, he just wasn't my favorite. He and Kieran were good together and had good chemistry but with everything else their "romance seemed to take a back seat." I would have liked to see more to understand more about them as a couple. I actually think I may have enjoyed it the book more if there were more focus on the men and less focus on the various action scenes.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie byDreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.**
I absolutely hate finishing a book and feeling like I have a whole bunch of questions that never got answered. If I'm prepared ahead of time and know going into the book that it's going to end in a HFN as opposed to a HEA,I don't really mind. However,when I don't even feel as if it were anobvious HFN,then I'm just not satisfied.
I may be in the minority with this one but the thing is, I didn't really get this book. I just felt like I was going through the motions as I read it and I kept waiting to feel something for the story or the characters. It wasn't that the writing was bad because the writing was well done, but from the very first page, I felt lost. It was as if the story picked up in the middle of a chapter or something and I never felt caught up.
I wasn't able to get a good connection with Joel's character and while I liked that he cared so much for Kieran and that he was willing to do anything to protect him, he just wasn't my favorite. He and Kieran were good together and had good chemistry but with everything else their "romance seemed to take a back seat." I would have liked to see more to understand more about them as a couple. I actually think I may have enjoyed it the book more if there were more focus on the men and less focus on the various action scenes.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie byDreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.**
July 24, 2019
While the book certainly caught my attention, I have noticed that this author never really expands the relationship part of the story and that brings the book down in my eyes. The internal monolog of the main characters was just not satisfactory enough and while there is this supposedly big issue of them not getting together in the last 4 years because they were scared it would ruin there friendship, we don't see it. The characters mention it once and out of nowhere they get together, no confusing feelings, nothing.
The actual plot seemed interesting and I would have liked to read the next book and find out what is actually happening. But since there is no sequel yet I cannot do that and in that case I'd prefer if the main plot finished in this book and we could just get a new story for the sequel.
The actual plot seemed interesting and I would have liked to read the next book and find out what is actually happening. But since there is no sequel yet I cannot do that and in that case I'd prefer if the main plot finished in this book and we could just get a new story for the sequel.
September 5, 2017
I'm a huge fan of The Power of Zero series and thought I would check out what else Jackie Keswick had done and found Leap of Faith. Despite it being so short I was pleasantly surprised by how much is packed in the story. There's plenty of action and we are left with so many questions in the best way. I'm really looking forward to what's in store for Joel and Keiran and all of FireWorks. The romance definitely takes a back seat here so I hope in the coming books we can really get deeper, have some more chemistry and not just the mention of chemistry. Still, a really good start to an interesting series I'll have my eye on.
November 17, 2018
I found the blurb somewhat misleading, as the focus was mainly on the relationship between the main characters - the actual story focused on the investigation and the interaction was secondary. It would have been ok, if that is what had been advertised, or if the investigation was interesting, but mostly it consisted of alluding to the investigators having secrets that they didn't share with the reader or each other. Besides that it had a lot of world building and introduced a lot of players, but it never really got anywhere.
So upon reaching the end, I was kind of relieved it was over.
So upon reaching the end, I was kind of relieved it was over.
February 4, 2018
This book frustrated me. I wanted to like it. I really liked the premise. But I needed backstory and there was none. I like Joel and Kieran together as partners. It was pretty evident they should be in a relationship. Things went ka-boom, secrets, scary men, sexy times, but where is the backstory?? And now I'm left hanging with a hfn. I'm just waiting....
June 30, 2017
I really enjoyed this friends to lovers story. The mystery was good as well as the characters being well developed. It wasn't as sexy as I would have liked and it did feel slightly HFN instead of HEA but since it looks to be book 1 in a series, I'm alright with that. Here's to hoping there's more!
April 7, 2017
The romance is sort of secondary in this book. Of course they'll fall for one another; they've each been on that road since they met 4 years previously. So the bigger story is the suspense arc, and it's...confusing. There's a whole lot of players and vague background. This book reads like the setup for a more full, fleshed out story. I hope book 2 comes quickly and with more substance. This one didn't give me enough.
April 13, 2017
I would have given it more stars as I liked the book but Ever since I started reading this book, I felt it was starting off in the middle and that I had missed the first few chapters! Maybe because Joel and Kieran had known each other for 4 years and we stray at the beginning of a scene. I also thought that it finished as soon as they got together and there was so much left unsaid as it it was a cliffhanger. I don't know, I enjoyed the banter between everyone but wish it had more depth to it.
April 13, 2017
Loved it! Action, suspense and love - nonstop!
If you like nonstop action then you'll love Kieran and Joel who are partners in an security company which through negotiation, rescue people. Joel and Kieran are very close partners, start this story off with a bang! Totally loved this story!
If you like nonstop action then you'll love Kieran and Joel who are partners in an security company which through negotiation, rescue people. Joel and Kieran are very close partners, start this story off with a bang! Totally loved this story!
April 17, 2017
Enjoyable
I loved the chemistry between the two MC's. The book had lots of action and a good plot. I am a sucker for 2 alpha males and a story line that can hold my attention.
I loved the chemistry between the two MC's. The book had lots of action and a good plot. I am a sucker for 2 alpha males and a story line that can hold my attention.
March 29, 2017
I thought this was a very exciting read. You have two best friends who have been in love with one another for four years now and work together as partners at FireWorks security firm but have never crossed the line with each other. Talk about sexual frustrations on both their parts. Not to mention feelings for each other that have no where to place them.
Kieran in my opinion has at least a small amount of PTSD from his time in the DEA and now especially after a opp going wrong. This book starts with Keiran being on edge because of losing an innocent bystander to a deranged man. Keiran tried to save her but he was just not close enough. The woman's death hit Keiran really hard and he is having a hard time coping with it.
Needless to say his best friend and partner is there by his side through the sleepless nights, the loss of time, and the nightmares. Joel is doing everything he can to make sure that Keiran does not go over the edge and lie it all together.
After a particularly bad morning Joel has decided it is time for a change and that they need the support of their team members/family. Because that is what they all are....family. So Joel sets up lunch and a fun filled afternoon so everyone can let lose and let go. Everyone has a great time and Joel can tell This is exactly what Keiran needed.
Or at least that is until everything goes wrong very quickly and in an extremely explosive way. When trouble strikes Joel and Keiran jump into action and inadvertently put themselves in a volatile situation that leaves hem both battered and bruised. Also in the sites of some unknown persons who wants them dead.
As the situation escalate, Joel and Keiran find themselves finally letting go of their worries where they are concerned and they let down their guards and seek comfort in each other's arms.
Can Keiran and Joel find solace in each other while trying to figure out who is out to get them or will everything blow up in their faces?
This was as I previously stated a very exciting read. There is no dull moments in this read. There is mystery and suspense. There is attempts on the main characters lives. There is the possibility at a relationship where there previously wasn't and there is danger. I will be honest in saying that I really enjoyed this book. I truly look forward to the next book in this series because I feel like this series is just getting started and there is going to be so much more in the upcoming books. The way this book ended left me excited about the next book because there is so much that could and will probably happen and I cannot wait to read about it.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Kieran in my opinion has at least a small amount of PTSD from his time in the DEA and now especially after a opp going wrong. This book starts with Keiran being on edge because of losing an innocent bystander to a deranged man. Keiran tried to save her but he was just not close enough. The woman's death hit Keiran really hard and he is having a hard time coping with it.
Needless to say his best friend and partner is there by his side through the sleepless nights, the loss of time, and the nightmares. Joel is doing everything he can to make sure that Keiran does not go over the edge and lie it all together.
After a particularly bad morning Joel has decided it is time for a change and that they need the support of their team members/family. Because that is what they all are....family. So Joel sets up lunch and a fun filled afternoon so everyone can let lose and let go. Everyone has a great time and Joel can tell This is exactly what Keiran needed.
Or at least that is until everything goes wrong very quickly and in an extremely explosive way. When trouble strikes Joel and Keiran jump into action and inadvertently put themselves in a volatile situation that leaves hem both battered and bruised. Also in the sites of some unknown persons who wants them dead.
As the situation escalate, Joel and Keiran find themselves finally letting go of their worries where they are concerned and they let down their guards and seek comfort in each other's arms.
Can Keiran and Joel find solace in each other while trying to figure out who is out to get them or will everything blow up in their faces?
This was as I previously stated a very exciting read. There is no dull moments in this read. There is mystery and suspense. There is attempts on the main characters lives. There is the possibility at a relationship where there previously wasn't and there is danger. I will be honest in saying that I really enjoyed this book. I truly look forward to the next book in this series because I feel like this series is just getting started and there is going to be so much more in the upcoming books. The way this book ended left me excited about the next book because there is so much that could and will probably happen and I cannot wait to read about it.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
April 5, 2017
Teaser
Holy smokes! Jackie Keswick delivers an explosive read, in more ways than one, with the first book in her FireWorks Security series, Leap of Faith.
I was on pins and needles tapping my screen faster than my Kindle could keep up wondering what revelation would unfold next.
With main characters and supporting cast (who get their moments just at the right time and place) that befit crime drama, plus gritty cop wit and sarcasm that keep this action packed thriller moving and the reader on the edge of their seat and scenes with picturesque writing and analogies so smooth you can’t help but savor every moment…. I found myself immediately charmed by Keswick’s talent.
The fact that the intrigue builds into something bigger in Leap of Faith and paves the way for the next book, and perhaps another relationship, in this series has my pulse racing for what’s to come!
Read Full Review at Kimmers’ Erotic Book Banter
http://bit.ly/2p0c8lp
Holy smokes! Jackie Keswick delivers an explosive read, in more ways than one, with the first book in her FireWorks Security series, Leap of Faith.
I was on pins and needles tapping my screen faster than my Kindle could keep up wondering what revelation would unfold next.
With main characters and supporting cast (who get their moments just at the right time and place) that befit crime drama, plus gritty cop wit and sarcasm that keep this action packed thriller moving and the reader on the edge of their seat and scenes with picturesque writing and analogies so smooth you can’t help but savor every moment…. I found myself immediately charmed by Keswick’s talent.
The fact that the intrigue builds into something bigger in Leap of Faith and paves the way for the next book, and perhaps another relationship, in this series has my pulse racing for what’s to come!
Read Full Review at Kimmers’ Erotic Book Banter
http://bit.ly/2p0c8lp
April 1, 2017
First off, I want to start with a huge pet peeve of mine. On the Publisher Page or Amazon, this is not marked as a series on the book or in the description. However, on Goodreads it is. If a book is part of a series, please make it clear to the buyer. This is a book one, so it sets up the series. We meet
Joseph the owner of Fireworks security, Dale is his brother and the forensics guy for the team. We get a glimpse of a few others as well. The main characters in the story are Joel and Kieran. Joel is Joseph's son and ex-military. Kieran has been with them for four years, is Joel's partner and ex-FBI.
After a mission gone wrong, Joel and Kieran are out with the gang for lunch. On the way home there is an attempted kidnapping. Joel and Kieran jump into action. The kidnapping turns into much more dragging them into danger and a mystery of who is after them and why.
I loved the dynamics of this story. There was great action, the detail is good. I loved the characters and how the romance was blended with the storyline and why they waited so long. And then the story just ended. I was left with too many questions. I can't wait for the next book though to see if it answers my questions and who the next couple is.
If you like mystery/suspense, security men, lots of action, friends to lovers, and some hot man-sex, this is for you.
Joseph the owner of Fireworks security, Dale is his brother and the forensics guy for the team. We get a glimpse of a few others as well. The main characters in the story are Joel and Kieran. Joel is Joseph's son and ex-military. Kieran has been with them for four years, is Joel's partner and ex-FBI.
After a mission gone wrong, Joel and Kieran are out with the gang for lunch. On the way home there is an attempted kidnapping. Joel and Kieran jump into action. The kidnapping turns into much more dragging them into danger and a mystery of who is after them and why.
I loved the dynamics of this story. There was great action, the detail is good. I loved the characters and how the romance was blended with the storyline and why they waited so long. And then the story just ended. I was left with too many questions. I can't wait for the next book though to see if it answers my questions and who the next couple is.
If you like mystery/suspense, security men, lots of action, friends to lovers, and some hot man-sex, this is for you.
April 5, 2017
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*
Leap of Faith is the first story in Jackie Keswick's FireWorks Security series. This series is set around FireWorks Security and this story set the background of the firm and characters. This story started out full speed with lots of characters and action, so much so that I thought I missed a beginning part of the story to understand what was going on. Partners/co-workers/friends Joel and Kieran had met up for lunch with fellow co-workers/friends to help Kieran get out of his head from their last mission. When Joel and Kieran are walking away from the restaurant, they hear yelling and run to investigate. And then kidnapping, yachts blowing up, a lot of chaos, and rescuing happen. Joel's seriously injured and Kieran saves his life. Joel's hospitalized until someone shows up looking for them, and with Joel's doctors help they're able to escape. Only it's not that easy. Joel gets to the safe house, but Kieran doesn't and finds himself in danger. Until he's rescued and taken to the safe house to recover from his injuries.
The relationship between the two main characters in this story was very much on the backburner for much of the story. Throughout, we knew that they were interested in the other, but nothing changed until the last 20% of the book and even that left me wanting for more. I would have loved more story once Joel and Kieran were honest about their feelings. And more story to close things that were just left open. We were given a little information here and there about things that happened in the past, but not enough to really understand what was going on.
I didn't feel that this book ended with a HEA or HFN, and the case was left without a conclusion. I'm very much a fan of HEA's for my books, I'm impatient that way. When I do find a series that takes multiple books to reach conclusions, I like to wait to read those books once all have been released. Maybe this series will follow Joel and Kieran's developing relationship and not move onto other characters in the firm, which would make sense based on this first book.
I think this series has a lot of promise and will check out the next book in the series.
Rating: 4 stars
Leap of Faith is the first story in Jackie Keswick's FireWorks Security series. This series is set around FireWorks Security and this story set the background of the firm and characters. This story started out full speed with lots of characters and action, so much so that I thought I missed a beginning part of the story to understand what was going on. Partners/co-workers/friends Joel and Kieran had met up for lunch with fellow co-workers/friends to help Kieran get out of his head from their last mission. When Joel and Kieran are walking away from the restaurant, they hear yelling and run to investigate. And then kidnapping, yachts blowing up, a lot of chaos, and rescuing happen. Joel's seriously injured and Kieran saves his life. Joel's hospitalized until someone shows up looking for them, and with Joel's doctors help they're able to escape. Only it's not that easy. Joel gets to the safe house, but Kieran doesn't and finds himself in danger. Until he's rescued and taken to the safe house to recover from his injuries.
The relationship between the two main characters in this story was very much on the backburner for much of the story. Throughout, we knew that they were interested in the other, but nothing changed until the last 20% of the book and even that left me wanting for more. I would have loved more story once Joel and Kieran were honest about their feelings. And more story to close things that were just left open. We were given a little information here and there about things that happened in the past, but not enough to really understand what was going on.
I didn't feel that this book ended with a HEA or HFN, and the case was left without a conclusion. I'm very much a fan of HEA's for my books, I'm impatient that way. When I do find a series that takes multiple books to reach conclusions, I like to wait to read those books once all have been released. Maybe this series will follow Joel and Kieran's developing relationship and not move onto other characters in the firm, which would make sense based on this first book.
I think this series has a lot of promise and will check out the next book in the series.
Rating: 4 stars
November 7, 2017
***3.38 stars***
OMG, there is soooooooooooooo much going on in this 127pg book I am still left reeling. The horrible thing is the reader is given a few crumbs here and there and that is it. Then the author is off to the next topic. At times I felt like I was jumping from thought to thought feeling scattered at times. This lead me to going back and rereading certain sections thinking I missed something when in fact that was not the case. Overall, I think this is has more to do with the writer's style than anything. Nonetheless, it still left me confused.
Case in point is around the 67% mark when Kieran states that,
Well, I waited for some sort of clue to this which I think I got some semblance of it near the 85% mark. Then around the 92% mark Joel tells Kieran that it is time for him to stop keeping things to himself which I assume he does (thought it is never clearly stated) because at the 95% mark Kieran finally tells Joseph Weston, Joel’s dad and they all seem to be on the same page. Again, it’s a bit confusing how the author goes about giving us the information, but I think it’s her style. The only other instance that left me a bit confused was when the went on a mission to extract possible hostages around the 84% mark.
While there is obvious chemistry between Joel and Kieran, they are still uncertain of the what the other one really wants. Of course this slow burn eventually combusts at “The Cottage”. Given that both our MC's have been celibate a bit over four years, one would think that there would be some pretty hot scenes especially when mirrors and food is involved. Sadly no. However, for the most part I was okay with this given everything else happening in the story.
In the end Joel and Kieran are left with a HFN, yet I was still left with a lot of unanswered questions.
1. What exactly happened to Kieran and his partner Matteo when he worked for the DEA?
2. Will the Marius’s sisters children will be found?
3. Is Marius’s situation connected to Kieran’s and therefore to the case they have now stumbled upon?
Even with all of this, the story was entertaining and a pretty quick read. I will definitely give the next book a go since I need to know the answers to the above questions.
I am one of many reviewers at Gay Book Reviews and can be found here: http://gaybook.reviews/author/steph/
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
OMG, there is soooooooooooooo much going on in this 127pg book I am still left reeling. The horrible thing is the reader is given a few crumbs here and there and that is it. Then the author is off to the next topic. At times I felt like I was jumping from thought to thought feeling scattered at times. This lead me to going back and rereading certain sections thinking I missed something when in fact that was not the case. Overall, I think this is has more to do with the writer's style than anything. Nonetheless, it still left me confused.
Case in point is around the 67% mark when Kieran states that,
“There was one explanation that fit all the facts. One explanation he’d not considered in five years. One explanation he wasn’t going to consider now. Not until they’d discounted everything else.”
Well, I waited for some sort of clue to this which I think I got some semblance of it near the 85% mark. Then around the 92% mark Joel tells Kieran that it is time for him to stop keeping things to himself which I assume he does (thought it is never clearly stated) because at the 95% mark Kieran finally tells Joseph Weston, Joel’s dad and they all seem to be on the same page. Again, it’s a bit confusing how the author goes about giving us the information, but I think it’s her style. The only other instance that left me a bit confused was when the went on a mission to extract possible hostages around the 84% mark.
While there is obvious chemistry between Joel and Kieran, they are still uncertain of the what the other one really wants. Of course this slow burn eventually combusts at “The Cottage”. Given that both our MC's have been celibate a bit over four years, one would think that there would be some pretty hot scenes especially when mirrors and food is involved. Sadly no. However, for the most part I was okay with this given everything else happening in the story.
In the end Joel and Kieran are left with a HFN, yet I was still left with a lot of unanswered questions.
1. What exactly happened to Kieran and his partner Matteo when he worked for the DEA?
2. Will the Marius’s sisters children will be found?
3. Is Marius’s situation connected to Kieran’s and therefore to the case they have now stumbled upon?
Even with all of this, the story was entertaining and a pretty quick read. I will definitely give the next book a go since I need to know the answers to the above questions.
I am one of many reviewers at Gay Book Reviews and can be found here: http://gaybook.reviews/author/steph/
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2017
3.5 stars
This was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it, it was a good suspense/mystery, while throwing in a romance, that kept me hanging on until the end. I liked the set up of explaining the FireWorks Security company and employees without going into so much detail that I was bored. The build up of the relationship between Joel and Kieran from friends & work partners to lovers was well written to me. They both felt so much for each other for the past four years and to finally be able to express their feelings made this part of the book romantic. I'm looking forward to the next installment of this series and more of Joel and Kieran.
This was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it, it was a good suspense/mystery, while throwing in a romance, that kept me hanging on until the end. I liked the set up of explaining the FireWorks Security company and employees without going into so much detail that I was bored. The build up of the relationship between Joel and Kieran from friends & work partners to lovers was well written to me. They both felt so much for each other for the past four years and to finally be able to express their feelings made this part of the book romantic. I'm looking forward to the next installment of this series and more of Joel and Kieran.
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