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I.O.N. #1
Lencería rojo caramelo y un Louisville Slugger
Ansioso por escapar de las sombras de una trágica pérdida, Diego construye una vida nueva junto a su mejor amigo, Beck. Cuando al fin decide admitir que está enamorado de él, dicha nueva vida da un giro feliz y excitante. Pero la paz puede romperse con facilidad, tal y como Diego sabe demasiado bien, y esta vez se ve arruinada por la llegada de un misterioso paquete y un hombre peligroso con inclinación hacia la violencia.
Los recuerdos de un hermano muerto y de un señor de la droga intocable se alzan sin remedio hasta la superficie, y Diego teme que el hombre al que ama se vea atrapado en el mundo del que él intentó escapar. Pero los secretos de Beck no son tan simples, al igual que tampoco lo es el mundo en el que Diego ha estado viviendo.
Los recuerdos de un hermano muerto y de un señor de la droga intocable se alzan sin remedio hasta la superficie, y Diego teme que el hombre al que ama se vea atrapado en el mundo del que él intentó escapar. Pero los secretos de Beck no son tan simples, al igual que tampoco lo es el mundo en el que Diego ha estado viviendo.
154 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 5, 2013
About the author
Lexi Ander
34 books440 followersLexi has always been an avid reader and at a young age started reading (secretly) her mother’s romances (the ones she was told not to touch). She was the only teenager she knew of who would be grounded from reading. Later, with a pencil and a note book, she wrote her own stories and shared them with friends because she loved to see their reactions. A Texas transplant, Lexi now kicks her boots up in the Midwest with her Yankee husband and her 80 pound puppies named after vacuum cleaners.
Website: http://www.lexiander.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lexi.ander.9
Blog: http://lexiander.blogspot.com/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/LexiAnder1
Email: lexi.ander.author@gmail.com
Website: http://www.lexiander.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lexi.ander.9
Blog: http://lexiander.blogspot.com/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/LexiAnder1
Email: lexi.ander.author@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
January 24, 2016
~3.5~
I am reviewing the second edition of this book, which according to the publisher "has been reworked and significantly expanded."
Let me begin by saying:
- This book is not a romance. There is a M/M relationship, yes, but it's overshadowed by the suspense, mystery & paranormal elements. The book begins when one of the MCs is 12, and the second MC isn't introduced until the 20 percent mark.
- The ending is NOT a HEA. It's very much a cliffhanger. There is some resolution to Diego and Beck's relationship, but everything else is up in the air.
- I read an ARC of this book, and I noticed a few typos and editing issues. Hopefully, these will be addressed in the final copy.
- There is little steam (one short sexy scene, which was undoubtedly hot; all the more pity we didn't get more).
- The title has almost naught to do with the story, so don't go into this expecting light and fluffy; this book is dark and brooding. Diego has a penchant for lacy manties (the "ruby red booty shorts" of the title), but sadly this kink is barely explored.
All the caveats aside, I liked this book.
Ander is a good writer, and the pacing was spot on. I was immediately invested in Diego's story.
Diego is a dreamer, and his dreams foresee the future. It's not as simple as that of course, but Diego is much more than he seems. Yet Diego denies his power and wears an amulet given to him by his abuela to suppress his visions, and with them the pain of knowing.
I loved the way the story was seeped in Mexican culture, and since I speak decent Spanish, I didn't mind the sprinkling of Spanish words and phrases throughout the story. This might prove problematic if you speak no Spanish at all.
I don't mind paranormal elements in my books, and while there was nothing new here , the plot didn't feel recycled.
Diego and Beck were best friends for years before they became lovers, and the unresolved sexual tension between them was delicious. I wish the book hadn't skipped years of friendship and relationship development. I wanted more showing, less telling.
And then there's the unsatisfying ending; the last page said FIN, but it might as well have said To Be Continued. This book was originally published in 2013, and the second book is still not out, which is too bad. Readers will only wait so long before losing interest.
I am reviewing the second edition of this book, which according to the publisher "has been reworked and significantly expanded."
Let me begin by saying:
- This book is not a romance. There is a M/M relationship, yes, but it's overshadowed by the suspense, mystery & paranormal elements. The book begins when one of the MCs is 12, and the second MC isn't introduced until the 20 percent mark.
- The ending is NOT a HEA. It's very much a cliffhanger. There is some resolution to Diego and Beck's relationship, but everything else is up in the air.
- I read an ARC of this book, and I noticed a few typos and editing issues. Hopefully, these will be addressed in the final copy.
- There is little steam (one short sexy scene, which was undoubtedly hot; all the more pity we didn't get more).
- The title has almost naught to do with the story, so don't go into this expecting light and fluffy; this book is dark and brooding. Diego has a penchant for lacy manties (the "ruby red booty shorts" of the title), but sadly this kink is barely explored.
All the caveats aside, I liked this book.
Ander is a good writer, and the pacing was spot on. I was immediately invested in Diego's story.
Diego is a dreamer, and his dreams foresee the future. It's not as simple as that of course, but Diego is much more than he seems. Yet Diego denies his power and wears an amulet given to him by his abuela to suppress his visions, and with them the pain of knowing.
I loved the way the story was seeped in Mexican culture, and since I speak decent Spanish, I didn't mind the sprinkling of Spanish words and phrases throughout the story. This might prove problematic if you speak no Spanish at all.
I don't mind paranormal elements in my books, and while there was nothing new here , the plot didn't feel recycled.
Diego and Beck were best friends for years before they became lovers, and the unresolved sexual tension between them was delicious. I wish the book hadn't skipped years of friendship and relationship development. I wanted more showing, less telling.
And then there's the unsatisfying ending; the last page said FIN, but it might as well have said To Be Continued. This book was originally published in 2013, and the second book is still not out, which is too bad. Readers will only wait so long before losing interest.
February 23, 2013
What you can know without spoilering the book is that this story feels like a prologue in that it's so short and the world is barely sketched, but manages to be unbelievably satisfying nonetheless.
Long-ass rant is spoiler-tagged because it tells basically everything – sorry! I can't seem to stop my fingers from going crazy on the keyboard when something frustrates me. But don't worry: even my favourite books have something frustrating and rant-inspiring; that doesn't mean I didn't love them.
Reflection: this is actually more of a running commentary. If you've already read this book or do not plan on doing it, come along with me retracing all the steps of the story.
Let's start with the beginning: Diego is crazy. I mean, his behaviour goes beyond impulsiveness; he's hysterical. He just jumps into things – whether it's (yes, this is done exactly to entice you) or Alright, I'll stop interrupting now.
(Back to the non-spoilerish.)
Finally, the ending. Very, very good. They talk, Beck explains, Diego forgives, and, after a tense, nerve-wrecking day, instead of having sex in Diego's mother's house they sleep nestled together under the covers - *thumbs up* for the realism.
So all's good and well and I can't wait for more.
I do have some other niggles.
1. Although Diego has been unconsciously halfway exposed to the paranormal his whole life, it still feels like he's accepting its existence a bit too readily.
2. About the language: the Spanish in inserted in sentences at random moments. I understand that Diego might feel more comfortable speaking in Spanish sometimes, but when he's thinking things like “the mierda is going to hit the fan” it just weirds me out. Like most people on GR, I speak more than one language, and when I'm thinking, I either do it in English, Italian or Romanian. I don't mix them up.
Little note: I'm not sure – I don't speak Spanish – but I think bruja is strictly feminine – as in a female witch. The masculine should be brujo. Let me know if I'm talking bullshit.
tl;dr: I wholeheartedly recommend this book. It has hawt times, suspense and paranormal critters in spades and I'll be eagerly waiting for a sequel. No worries though, there's no cliffhanger! :)
Long-ass rant is spoiler-tagged because it tells basically everything – sorry! I can't seem to stop my fingers from going crazy on the keyboard when something frustrates me. But don't worry: even my favourite books have something frustrating and rant-inspiring; that doesn't mean I didn't love them.
Reflection: this is actually more of a running commentary. If you've already read this book or do not plan on doing it, come along with me retracing all the steps of the story.
Let's start with the beginning: Diego is crazy. I mean, his behaviour goes beyond impulsiveness; he's hysterical. He just jumps into things – whether it's (yes, this is done exactly to entice you) or Alright, I'll stop interrupting now.
(Back to the non-spoilerish.)
Finally, the ending. Very, very good. They talk, Beck explains, Diego forgives, and, after a tense, nerve-wrecking day, instead of having sex in Diego's mother's house they sleep nestled together under the covers - *thumbs up* for the realism.
So all's good and well and I can't wait for more.
I do have some other niggles.
1. Although Diego has been unconsciously halfway exposed to the paranormal his whole life, it still feels like he's accepting its existence a bit too readily.
2. About the language: the Spanish in inserted in sentences at random moments. I understand that Diego might feel more comfortable speaking in Spanish sometimes, but when he's thinking things like “the mierda is going to hit the fan” it just weirds me out. Like most people on GR, I speak more than one language, and when I'm thinking, I either do it in English, Italian or Romanian. I don't mix them up.
Little note: I'm not sure – I don't speak Spanish – but I think bruja is strictly feminine – as in a female witch. The masculine should be brujo. Let me know if I'm talking bullshit.
tl;dr: I wholeheartedly recommend this book. It has hawt times, suspense and paranormal critters in spades and I'll be eagerly waiting for a sequel. No worries though, there's no cliffhanger! :)
January 17, 2020
2.75 Stars
Too busy what with the PNR aspects, the gangs, the secret organization plus the Parkour and romance. I loved the lingerie sections, and I'm fond of that bat...but having the title named for them just felt odd. Yes, it paints a good picture of who Diego is, but with everything else it felt out of place.
It's the first book of a series that deals with a Supernatural agency and that should have been the focus (with the panties thrown in on the side). All that background info drowned out the story (or should have been the entire story, with either less of or MORE of the ION story-line), and I wasn't fond of all the random Spanish thrown in there. Yes, Diego is Mexican and it felt authentic to have him use it...but the repeated use of "hombre" "vato" and "familia" were just going overboard. (And if you're gonna use "familia" then for heaven's sake use the article that goes with it, "la familia" or whatever; not "my familia" "the familia" and "our familia.")
Too busy what with the PNR aspects, the gangs, the secret organization plus the Parkour and romance. I loved the lingerie sections, and I'm fond of that bat...but having the title named for them just felt odd. Yes, it paints a good picture of who Diego is, but with everything else it felt out of place.
It's the first book of a series that deals with a Supernatural agency and that should have been the focus (with the panties thrown in on the side). All that background info drowned out the story (or should have been the entire story, with either less of or MORE of the ION story-line), and I wasn't fond of all the random Spanish thrown in there. Yes, Diego is Mexican and it felt authentic to have him use it...but the repeated use of "hombre" "vato" and "familia" were just going overboard. (And if you're gonna use "familia" then for heaven's sake use the article that goes with it, "la familia" or whatever; not "my familia" "the familia" and "our familia.")
January 4, 2013
4 1/2 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Diego decides to go for broke with his roommate Beck; he has been in love with the man for years and now is the time to do something about it, and it is the best night of his life. But having to escape from thugs the next morning, carrying a package that Beck won’t talk about, makes Diego believe the worse and Diego swears to get Beck free of whatever underworld trap he has fallen into. Beck has wanted to tell Diego the truth for years, but was ordered not to, now Diego is loose with a Louisville Slugger believing he is rescuing Beck and their friend Denise. Beck has to bring Diego into the murky paranormal world he lives in, and just hope that Diego can forgive him.
This book opens with a hot, hot, hot scene, and then before long we are thrown head long into a chase across rooftops and down back allies. Diego dragged himself away from a life where danger was at every turn, losing his brother to a drug lord made him determined to live a good life and he has. But just when he and Beck confess their feelings and spend an explosive night together, a mystery package is delivered and some thugs come after Beck. Now Diego has a choice to make and it becomes even harder when he learns the truth about Beck’s job, and what really happened to his brother.
I give you all full warning, the first chapter is soooooo hot that you will need a fan to cool yourselves off, wooohooo it’s steamy and passionate with some slight kink that will get your motor revving. Throughout the rest of the book its action, secrets uncovered and soul-searching, and having to decide what is best for all. I have got to say that Lexi Ander has written a paranormal story where you just don’t know where it’s heading, and it’s a joy to find out. Beck and Diego are well suited, especially in the bedroom *wink*, and they are great friends, but trust is very important to Diego, and he has to work through his reaction to Beck’s secret.
Diego is actually more than he seems, but you don’t quite know what it all means, his abuela has kept things hidden from Diego, even while feeding him tidbits of information in the way of stories. Beck has kept his real job a secret from Diego to keep him safe, he has always wanted to be truthful to his best friend and the man he loves, and now he has the chance he could have lost Diego because trust is such an important thing. These two men are hot together that there is no doubt about, the storyline is brilliant and well written, and the plot looks to be far-reaching.
I have to recommend this if you love secret organisations, hot sex, secret kinks, great characters, a great storyline with a happy ending and the promise of more to come.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Diego decides to go for broke with his roommate Beck; he has been in love with the man for years and now is the time to do something about it, and it is the best night of his life. But having to escape from thugs the next morning, carrying a package that Beck won’t talk about, makes Diego believe the worse and Diego swears to get Beck free of whatever underworld trap he has fallen into. Beck has wanted to tell Diego the truth for years, but was ordered not to, now Diego is loose with a Louisville Slugger believing he is rescuing Beck and their friend Denise. Beck has to bring Diego into the murky paranormal world he lives in, and just hope that Diego can forgive him.
This book opens with a hot, hot, hot scene, and then before long we are thrown head long into a chase across rooftops and down back allies. Diego dragged himself away from a life where danger was at every turn, losing his brother to a drug lord made him determined to live a good life and he has. But just when he and Beck confess their feelings and spend an explosive night together, a mystery package is delivered and some thugs come after Beck. Now Diego has a choice to make and it becomes even harder when he learns the truth about Beck’s job, and what really happened to his brother.
I give you all full warning, the first chapter is soooooo hot that you will need a fan to cool yourselves off, wooohooo it’s steamy and passionate with some slight kink that will get your motor revving. Throughout the rest of the book its action, secrets uncovered and soul-searching, and having to decide what is best for all. I have got to say that Lexi Ander has written a paranormal story where you just don’t know where it’s heading, and it’s a joy to find out. Beck and Diego are well suited, especially in the bedroom *wink*, and they are great friends, but trust is very important to Diego, and he has to work through his reaction to Beck’s secret.
Diego is actually more than he seems, but you don’t quite know what it all means, his abuela has kept things hidden from Diego, even while feeding him tidbits of information in the way of stories. Beck has kept his real job a secret from Diego to keep him safe, he has always wanted to be truthful to his best friend and the man he loves, and now he has the chance he could have lost Diego because trust is such an important thing. These two men are hot together that there is no doubt about, the storyline is brilliant and well written, and the plot looks to be far-reaching.
I have to recommend this if you love secret organisations, hot sex, secret kinks, great characters, a great storyline with a happy ending and the promise of more to come.
December 30, 2012
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
4.5 Isn’t it always the way? You finally decide to confront your best friend whom you have loved forever about how you feel. You have an amazing night, he accepts and embraces all your kinks and then suddenly the whole world turns upside down.
Diego is S.E.X.Y. He is a really big guy, construction worker tough and a brute. Holy balls, when Beck peels down those work pants and sees what is underneath, get your fan out. Then to find that the big bad Deigo is an exclusive bottom? WHOA, it gets hot in here!! These two were made to be together, even if it took them a while to get it going.
Of course it is not easy for them. Diego’s family is poor, from a not great area. There is a nasty Cadillac Man around and Diego’s brother Hector worked for him, then was never seen again. I have to say, regardless of the reasons, I hate Diego’s abuela. Just hate her. Sacrificing innocence of someone who loves you is just so bad.
Beck keeps many secrets and they come to a head here. Diego reacts as you would expect and gets tazed for his trouble. Oh, wanted to pick up that slugger myself and help the man. At one point Beck gets irritated that “is this how it will be because you don’t trust me?” Well, Beck, you deserve the lack of trust, now earn it back. He will, you know it. Diego’s waited a long time for this and won’t allow anything less.
Agent Jones, I can only hope he gets what is coming to him.
The only quibble I have is that it ends open ended about I.O.N. and I want to know what happens next!
4.5 Isn’t it always the way? You finally decide to confront your best friend whom you have loved forever about how you feel. You have an amazing night, he accepts and embraces all your kinks and then suddenly the whole world turns upside down.
Diego is S.E.X.Y. He is a really big guy, construction worker tough and a brute. Holy balls, when Beck peels down those work pants and sees what is underneath, get your fan out. Then to find that the big bad Deigo is an exclusive bottom? WHOA, it gets hot in here!! These two were made to be together, even if it took them a while to get it going.
Of course it is not easy for them. Diego’s family is poor, from a not great area. There is a nasty Cadillac Man around and Diego’s brother Hector worked for him, then was never seen again. I have to say, regardless of the reasons, I hate Diego’s abuela. Just hate her. Sacrificing innocence of someone who loves you is just so bad.
Beck keeps many secrets and they come to a head here. Diego reacts as you would expect and gets tazed for his trouble. Oh, wanted to pick up that slugger myself and help the man. At one point Beck gets irritated that “is this how it will be because you don’t trust me?” Well, Beck, you deserve the lack of trust, now earn it back. He will, you know it. Diego’s waited a long time for this and won’t allow anything less.
Agent Jones, I can only hope he gets what is coming to him.
The only quibble I have is that it ends open ended about I.O.N. and I want to know what happens next!
March 5, 2020
An UnexPectEd SeXy BEAutY!
-
I love when I open a new book by a writer and I get an unexpected surprise. I adore this book. It's a re-readable treasure. I re-read this on 12/16 and found it to be still so very fun.
Diego and Beck...were simply A.D.O.R.A.B.L.E!
The storyline has a sprinkle of BDSM, and OMG, that sprinkle was extremely HAWT, I loved it!
The Storyline has intriguing paranormal aspects, I loved it!
There is a big "To be Continued " feeling at the end of the book, a very small cliff-hanger..it ends easy and smooth so that you do not have to get the next book, I really loved that too!
But,I do want the next book and my reason for wanting the next book is not because of the ending, but because of......shhh it's in the spoiler~ man oh man be still my heart I love, love, love that! gosh, yes all that made this book so worth the read~as well as the buy of the next book..I can't wait.
-I love when I open a new book by a writer and I get an unexpected surprise. I adore this book. It's a re-readable treasure. I re-read this on 12/16 and found it to be still so very fun.
Diego and Beck...were simply A.D.O.R.A.B.L.E!
The storyline has a sprinkle of BDSM, and OMG, that sprinkle was extremely HAWT, I loved it!
The Storyline has intriguing paranormal aspects, I loved it!
There is a big "To be Continued " feeling at the end of the book, a very small cliff-hanger..it ends easy and smooth so that you do not have to get the next book, I really loved that too!
But,I do want the next book and my reason for wanting the next book is not because of the ending, but because of......shhh it's in the spoiler~ man oh man be still my heart I love, love, love that! gosh, yes all that made this book so worth the read~as well as the buy of the next book..I can't wait.
January 17, 2013
I liked that the author's decision to start the book with the MCs having sex. Then sex was done and the rest of the book can be use for the plot without pause.
The pacing was fast, things happens in quick successions that manage to not felt like an info dump.
It was rather surprising on how the I.O.N. operate
The book ended as the story conclude the introduction arc. Many issues still left open, hoping to be dealt with in the later books.
The pacing was fast, things happens in quick successions that manage to not felt like an info dump.
It was rather surprising on how the I.O.N. operate
The book ended as the story conclude the introduction arc. Many issues still left open, hoping to be dealt with in the later books.
January 10, 2013
OMG! OMG! OMG! *runs around flailing arms in the air* Hot damn! This has the potential for turning out to be a amazing series. Diego is my *New bad ass MC for 2013. I knew I had to read this one....just because of the title of the book alone.
Did. not. expect what I got when I read the story. Love a man who wears lace and can kick some punk ass at the same time. Hot, I tell ya. Hot, goddammit! Some lacy kink, BDSM (lite, so far), some paranormal/shifter, thug-gang, don't mess with ma family, kick ass action goin' on up in here. Oh, and I don't think we've seen the end of agent Jones (whatever his name is) yet either.
Oh god, like how you push a lot of my buttons with this one Lexi.
Did. not. expect what I got when I read the story. Love a man who wears lace and can kick some punk ass at the same time. Hot, I tell ya. Hot, goddammit! Some lacy kink, BDSM (lite, so far), some paranormal/shifter, thug-gang, don't mess with ma family, kick ass action goin' on up in here. Oh, and I don't think we've seen the end of agent Jones (whatever his name is) yet either.
Oh god, like how you push a lot of my buttons with this one Lexi.
January 17, 2013
very, very good read but over way to fast!! so many loose ends I cant wait for the next book. (seriously, when is it coming out?lol)
March 2, 2013
Interesting world building. I like mysteries and paranormal that are not your run of the mill sparkly vamp. This has that - the background of Diego's family brought a very earthy quality to the whole thing. I wanted to know his abuela more. Setting it in San Diego/LA makes the Hispanic component more realistic and believable - although at times adding in the Spanish felt off. Having lived in that area for over 20 years it is more common to hear people converse all in one language without mixing them - so that jarred me a bit although maybe it's feasible given the area where Diego grew up. ION is a great idea - and the strongest part of the story for me.
I did feel like the book started and plopped me down in a situation I had no background of - and I struggled a bit in the beginning. I would have liked more background on Beck and Diego - they would have been stronger to me with more backstory or exposition of their background. I didn't feel like I knew them at all and then they were off and running - I'm normally more engaged at that point but it took a while to get there. ION definitely sets the stage for some pretty cool stories - either continuing on with Beck and Diego or featuring new couples. I liked the kink - would have liked more of it. It did feel, at times, it was 2 stories and there were some points where it didn't come together as well as I'd of hoped - meaning either of the story threads was enough for 1 story of this length and 2 at times just overwhelmed it and gave it a bipolar feeling.
I love the author and really enjoyed her Songs of the Earth and Twin Flames books so much. She has a real talent for reaching into something that should be blase because we've seen it so much and bringing a fresh feel to it!
I did feel like the book started and plopped me down in a situation I had no background of - and I struggled a bit in the beginning. I would have liked more background on Beck and Diego - they would have been stronger to me with more backstory or exposition of their background. I didn't feel like I knew them at all and then they were off and running - I'm normally more engaged at that point but it took a while to get there. ION definitely sets the stage for some pretty cool stories - either continuing on with Beck and Diego or featuring new couples. I liked the kink - would have liked more of it. It did feel, at times, it was 2 stories and there were some points where it didn't come together as well as I'd of hoped - meaning either of the story threads was enough for 1 story of this length and 2 at times just overwhelmed it and gave it a bipolar feeling.
I love the author and really enjoyed her Songs of the Earth and Twin Flames books so much. She has a real talent for reaching into something that should be blase because we've seen it so much and bringing a fresh feel to it!
October 3, 2015
The beginning was too familiar. I kept thinking I'd read the book before because it reminded me of several shorts I've read. But that didn't mean the start was bad. No, it was hot. It's a little weird to start out with a sex scene but it was good so it worked for me.
Interesting new take on werewolves which I liked. I don't like it when someone is referred to as "the blond," especially a main character, but this only happened a couple of times. I'm not sure why I'm not judging, it just seems more likely from a cultural perspective. I actually teared up when (major big ass spoiler)
Interesting new take on werewolves which I liked. I don't like it when someone is referred to as "the blond," especially a main character, but this only happened a couple of times. I'm not sure why I'm not judging, it just seems more likely from a cultural perspective. I actually teared up when (major big ass spoiler)
January 9, 2013
Loved this book! It's hot, kinky, and fast-paced. The characters are sexy and I love the fact that they were best friends and were . You get pulled into the story that you just want to find out what happens next--like, right now! I've read it in one sitting. Looking forward to the next book on the series. <3
February 2, 2013
Well now! That started misleadingly. At first it seemed like another romance, but the plot evolved significantly to something really interesting. I liked Diego and the plot moved along at a good pace. Where's the sequel????
January 13, 2013
4.75 stars - rounded up
A Joyfully Jay Review
Diego Hernandez has been in love with his best friend and roommate, Beck Zell, since they met in college. He’s finally made up his mind to tell Beck how he feels. And it’s better than he ever thought it could be. Beck is everything that Diego always hoped for and more. After one amazing, hot, kinky night with Beck, Diego is certain that there will be no going back.
But when morning comes, secrets threaten to tear the new lovers apart. First, a mysterious package is left with the morning paper for Beck. Next, strange clone-looking men accost Beck in the stairwell of their apartment building. Then, Diego finds himself on the run from thugs with Beck by his side. Suddenly, Diego ends up in the middle of a world he didn’t know existed – non-humans, werewolves, shifters, witches, and more. Things of fairytales and nightmares. But there’s more.
The man he’s trusted and loved for years, Beck, is in the middle of all of this insanity. His best friend and the love of Diego’s life has been keeping secrets and lying by omission for years, maybe even since they’ve known each other. He works for group called I.O.N. (International Organization for Non-humans), policing a paranormal world that most don’t know exists.
When an offer is presented to Diego to join the I.O.N. team, Diego must decide whether the secrets that have been kept from him outweigh the ones he’s still keeping from Beck. But when the past shows up to haunt Diego, all bets are off.
Ruby Red Booty Shorts & a Louisville Slugger is the first in Lexi Ander’s new I.O.N. series.
I know what you’re thinking. I thought the same thing. What is with that title? It’s one of the oddest titles. And honestly, I don’t know. Yes, there is a pair of ruby red lacy booty shorts in the story. And the Louisville Slugger makes a couple of appearances, but the story is not about either. It could have used a different title, but luckily that doesn’t really detract from the story.
It’s not a secret that I’m a big fan of this up and coming author. She brings a fresh, new twist to the paranormal world. Her characters are engaging. Her storylines are captivating. And her worlds are detailed and imaginative. This story is no different.
This world that Ander has created is exciting. From the moment that Diego’s world turns into what he thought was myth, the reader is sucked right in. It’s a secret world of paranormals and the humans and non-humans that police them. The people that run it, the teams that work for I.O.N., the assignments – it has me wanting more.
Diego and Beck, outside of I.O.N., are such a wonderful couple. They fit so well. Kink. One of my favorite subjects. It’s where the ruby red booty shorts come in. I love that Diego is this big brute of a man, yet he has a hidden kink like lacy panties. It makes for a sexy twist in his character. He’s strong man with morals and values. He’s a great character that I can’t wait to read more of. The story is written in Diego’s third person POV, so we only see Beck through Diego’s eyes, but Beck is a wonderful character as well. Only looking out for Diego. Wanting what’s best for him. He’s tough and determined. I adore that they are two strong men who love one another. I look forward to seeing how their relationship develops.
This storyline will keep you enthralled from beginning to end. It’s fast paced and entertaining. The romance/relationship storyline is lovely and heartbreaking at the same time. The action storyline is heart pounding and thrilling.
My only complaint is with the Spanish, and seriously it’s only because I don’t remember enough of my high school Spanish lessons, other than the swear words (which were included in this story). But because of the phrases, I had to flip back and forth between the book and the glossary to understand what was being said. It was just a little frustrating, but in the end it was okay, because Diego is hilarious when he’s angry.
All in all, Ruby Red Booty Shorts & a Louisville Slugger is an exciting read with great characters, and action packed storyline, and a new and exciting world. Look past the title and you’ll find a great and inspired story. I highly recommend this first installment in the I.O.N. series and can’t wait for the next.
A Joyfully Jay Review
Diego Hernandez has been in love with his best friend and roommate, Beck Zell, since they met in college. He’s finally made up his mind to tell Beck how he feels. And it’s better than he ever thought it could be. Beck is everything that Diego always hoped for and more. After one amazing, hot, kinky night with Beck, Diego is certain that there will be no going back.
But when morning comes, secrets threaten to tear the new lovers apart. First, a mysterious package is left with the morning paper for Beck. Next, strange clone-looking men accost Beck in the stairwell of their apartment building. Then, Diego finds himself on the run from thugs with Beck by his side. Suddenly, Diego ends up in the middle of a world he didn’t know existed – non-humans, werewolves, shifters, witches, and more. Things of fairytales and nightmares. But there’s more.
The man he’s trusted and loved for years, Beck, is in the middle of all of this insanity. His best friend and the love of Diego’s life has been keeping secrets and lying by omission for years, maybe even since they’ve known each other. He works for group called I.O.N. (International Organization for Non-humans), policing a paranormal world that most don’t know exists.
When an offer is presented to Diego to join the I.O.N. team, Diego must decide whether the secrets that have been kept from him outweigh the ones he’s still keeping from Beck. But when the past shows up to haunt Diego, all bets are off.
Ruby Red Booty Shorts & a Louisville Slugger is the first in Lexi Ander’s new I.O.N. series.
I know what you’re thinking. I thought the same thing. What is with that title? It’s one of the oddest titles. And honestly, I don’t know. Yes, there is a pair of ruby red lacy booty shorts in the story. And the Louisville Slugger makes a couple of appearances, but the story is not about either. It could have used a different title, but luckily that doesn’t really detract from the story.
It’s not a secret that I’m a big fan of this up and coming author. She brings a fresh, new twist to the paranormal world. Her characters are engaging. Her storylines are captivating. And her worlds are detailed and imaginative. This story is no different.
This world that Ander has created is exciting. From the moment that Diego’s world turns into what he thought was myth, the reader is sucked right in. It’s a secret world of paranormals and the humans and non-humans that police them. The people that run it, the teams that work for I.O.N., the assignments – it has me wanting more.
Diego and Beck, outside of I.O.N., are such a wonderful couple. They fit so well. Kink. One of my favorite subjects. It’s where the ruby red booty shorts come in. I love that Diego is this big brute of a man, yet he has a hidden kink like lacy panties. It makes for a sexy twist in his character. He’s strong man with morals and values. He’s a great character that I can’t wait to read more of. The story is written in Diego’s third person POV, so we only see Beck through Diego’s eyes, but Beck is a wonderful character as well. Only looking out for Diego. Wanting what’s best for him. He’s tough and determined. I adore that they are two strong men who love one another. I look forward to seeing how their relationship develops.
This storyline will keep you enthralled from beginning to end. It’s fast paced and entertaining. The romance/relationship storyline is lovely and heartbreaking at the same time. The action storyline is heart pounding and thrilling.
My only complaint is with the Spanish, and seriously it’s only because I don’t remember enough of my high school Spanish lessons, other than the swear words (which were included in this story). But because of the phrases, I had to flip back and forth between the book and the glossary to understand what was being said. It was just a little frustrating, but in the end it was okay, because Diego is hilarious when he’s angry.
All in all, Ruby Red Booty Shorts & a Louisville Slugger is an exciting read with great characters, and action packed storyline, and a new and exciting world. Look past the title and you’ll find a great and inspired story. I highly recommend this first installment in the I.O.N. series and can’t wait for the next.
June 9, 2016
Full review can be found at The Novel Approach
Yippee! I read the original version of this story some years ago when it was released through the original publisher, gave it 4 stars and bugged the author about the next book in the series. Then the publisher folded, leaving the series in limbo. Luckily the series has been picked up by another publisher, expanded and now is poised for a relaunch.
Diego is a young man who is special. He “sees” things in his dreams that frighten him – especially since they seem to be come true. His abuela is the one person in his family he can go to about his dreams and she does her best to protect him. She gives him what she hopes are the tools to protect him as he finishes growing up. When he loses his brother and the authorities don’t seem to care, Diego and his best friend Denise work hard to make themselves strong so that they will never be at the mercy of the man they know is responsible for the disappearance of Diego’s brother.
Diego and Denise go to college together and Diego works hard to make sure his sisters get the opportunity get out of the bad neighborhood they have grown up in as well. One of the other activities that Denise and Diego are involved in is parkour. Diego is pretty much the acknowledged local champion and through his competitions, he meets Beck. Beck is from the east coast and has moved to California to finish college and compete. They end up becoming roommates and best friends after Diego makes sure that Beck knows that he is gay and Beck confesses that he is too, so it’s not a problem. The real problem is that Diego is falling in love with Beck, but he’s afraid of ruining their friendship.
When they graduate college and move to San Diego together, they continue to be roommates. Diego has taken a job with a construction company while Beck and Denise both work for a mysterious security firm. Sometimes Beck is gone for days and when he returns, he’s a bit the worse for wear. But it’s security work, so he can’t talk about it. Diego begrudgingly accepts this but he isn’t happy about it.
There are some other issues that have to be worked on – including Diego telling his family the truth about his sexuality and his feelings for Beck. Then there is the whole issue of the security firm really being a front for a much more powerful and mysterious organization that does want to get their hands on Diego and his abilities. And all of this ties back to Hector, Diego’s long missing brother as well. Nothing is wrapped up at the end of this story and we will have to wait for the next installment to see how Beck and Diego fare against the forces lined up against them. But at least now they are facing them together.
I thoroughly enjoyed this expanded version of the original story. We get a lot more background on Diego’s family and Beck’s past as well. The relationship with Diego’s parents and his abuela are also expanded in this version giving us a better picture of why Diego is resisting his gifts and why he’s hell-bent on figuring out what is happening and why. The paranormal twists are threaded throughout the story but are further explained by the revelation that Beck’s employer isn’t exactly who Diego thinks they are. I’m really looking forward to seeing what will happen with Diego and Beck and how they are going to achieve their mission. There is a lot of action in this story as well, so anyone who likes a fast-paced story of suspense and mystery as well as some extended sexual tension will find this a very worthwhile read. Highly recommended
Yippee! I read the original version of this story some years ago when it was released through the original publisher, gave it 4 stars and bugged the author about the next book in the series. Then the publisher folded, leaving the series in limbo. Luckily the series has been picked up by another publisher, expanded and now is poised for a relaunch.
Diego is a young man who is special. He “sees” things in his dreams that frighten him – especially since they seem to be come true. His abuela is the one person in his family he can go to about his dreams and she does her best to protect him. She gives him what she hopes are the tools to protect him as he finishes growing up. When he loses his brother and the authorities don’t seem to care, Diego and his best friend Denise work hard to make themselves strong so that they will never be at the mercy of the man they know is responsible for the disappearance of Diego’s brother.
Diego and Denise go to college together and Diego works hard to make sure his sisters get the opportunity get out of the bad neighborhood they have grown up in as well. One of the other activities that Denise and Diego are involved in is parkour. Diego is pretty much the acknowledged local champion and through his competitions, he meets Beck. Beck is from the east coast and has moved to California to finish college and compete. They end up becoming roommates and best friends after Diego makes sure that Beck knows that he is gay and Beck confesses that he is too, so it’s not a problem. The real problem is that Diego is falling in love with Beck, but he’s afraid of ruining their friendship.
When they graduate college and move to San Diego together, they continue to be roommates. Diego has taken a job with a construction company while Beck and Denise both work for a mysterious security firm. Sometimes Beck is gone for days and when he returns, he’s a bit the worse for wear. But it’s security work, so he can’t talk about it. Diego begrudgingly accepts this but he isn’t happy about it.
There are some other issues that have to be worked on – including Diego telling his family the truth about his sexuality and his feelings for Beck. Then there is the whole issue of the security firm really being a front for a much more powerful and mysterious organization that does want to get their hands on Diego and his abilities. And all of this ties back to Hector, Diego’s long missing brother as well. Nothing is wrapped up at the end of this story and we will have to wait for the next installment to see how Beck and Diego fare against the forces lined up against them. But at least now they are facing them together.
I thoroughly enjoyed this expanded version of the original story. We get a lot more background on Diego’s family and Beck’s past as well. The relationship with Diego’s parents and his abuela are also expanded in this version giving us a better picture of why Diego is resisting his gifts and why he’s hell-bent on figuring out what is happening and why. The paranormal twists are threaded throughout the story but are further explained by the revelation that Beck’s employer isn’t exactly who Diego thinks they are. I’m really looking forward to seeing what will happen with Diego and Beck and how they are going to achieve their mission. There is a lot of action in this story as well, so anyone who likes a fast-paced story of suspense and mystery as well as some extended sexual tension will find this a very worthwhile read. Highly recommended
January 28, 2013
Lexi Ander has taken a ordinary run of the mill premise and is able to bring it to life with a wickedly funny and very concise style that is definitely not what I expected. Her very original characters and unique story line about shifters, weres, and other paranormal beings take this tale to a new level of entertaining and I DEFINITELY love her quirky ability to bring the most unusual forms of kink to the page.
Please see Trish's complete review on February 10, 2013 at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
Please see Trish's complete review on February 10, 2013 at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
March 9, 2016
Re-Read 1st Edition 28/02/16 I really liked the world building, though there is still so many questions that I hope are answered in further installments in the series. I liked both Diego and Beck and thought they worked as a couple. This is a really action packed novella with a lot going on. It would be nice to see a little more of who these two characters are deep down.
13/02/13 - I am looking forward to more in the series!
13/02/13 - I am looking forward to more in the series!
August 30, 2013
I wasn't introduced to these characters before they started having sex right off so it was hard for me to get into the story. Also without proper descriptions I wasn't sure which character we were reading and I had trouble identifying with either one of them. I quit 20 pages in despite the promise of a great story, at least according to the synopsis.
Read
July 23, 20154/10/2014
Just a quick note to say this title has been released from the former publisher. I will be submitting this to a publisher after some revisions are made. Thank you for your patience and your interest!
Just a quick note to say this title has been released from the former publisher. I will be submitting this to a publisher after some revisions are made. Thank you for your patience and your interest!
May 17, 2013
I loved this couple and the story is nice. It's not fascinating like, say, Sumeria's Sons, but I'm intrigued. I wonder if there's another book. It's fine if there isn't, I guess, but I wouldn't mind knowing more.
Want to read
December 2, 2012Yep, I'm in!
January 6, 2018
I would actually give this a 3 1/2 if it were an option. I enjoyed the book and the characters, and will be reading the sequel to see what comes next. There were some problems with pacing and how the secondary characters were shown that kept me from giving it more stars. But even so, I liked it and want to read more.
The paranormal stuff was interesting, and I liked the hints of Mexican and maybe some South American magic that might be coming. Diego felt like a well built character, with a solid background. At first I was expecting to jump right into an adventure with him as an adult, so I was a little surprised by the slow build, but it really gave a feel for where he came from and what his relationship was with his family and his powers. I was a little put off by the time jumps; I understand why they were necessary in a way, but I still felt like I would have rather had a more continuous run of Diego's life.
Some spoilers below:
I wish I had gotten a better feel for Beck, though. I never really felt like I got to know him, or what Diego liked about him other than that he was hot and did Parkour. I wanted to like him because Diego did, but just didn't feel like I knew him well enough to see why I should. I think if some more pieces from those time jumps had been included, maybe showing their lives together in college, or some other interactions before Beck joined ION and got quiet and disappear-y, I might have understood him and liked him better. As it was, he came off as always disappearing on Diego, sending unintelligible looks his way, wandering around as eye candy, and just generally making Diego worry. Although I did give him major points for backing Diego up with his family.
I also would have liked to see Denise interacting with Diego and Beck more in some college scenes or something. It really felt her psychic powers came out of the blue; no foreshadowing, no hints, no family history, no nothing. It felt like the author pulling it out for convenience rather than being real.
Despite those criticisms, I did have fun reading it and really liked Diego and want to see what happens next with Hector (and everyone else). I'm hoping the next book has some more insight into Beck, because I want to like him more because Diego does. I definitely will be reading the next one. Oh, and that scene where they're finally trying to get a moment together and everyone keeps calling? That was priceless :)
The paranormal stuff was interesting, and I liked the hints of Mexican and maybe some South American magic that might be coming. Diego felt like a well built character, with a solid background. At first I was expecting to jump right into an adventure with him as an adult, so I was a little surprised by the slow build, but it really gave a feel for where he came from and what his relationship was with his family and his powers. I was a little put off by the time jumps; I understand why they were necessary in a way, but I still felt like I would have rather had a more continuous run of Diego's life.
Some spoilers below:
I wish I had gotten a better feel for Beck, though. I never really felt like I got to know him, or what Diego liked about him other than that he was hot and did Parkour. I wanted to like him because Diego did, but just didn't feel like I knew him well enough to see why I should. I think if some more pieces from those time jumps had been included, maybe showing their lives together in college, or some other interactions before Beck joined ION and got quiet and disappear-y, I might have understood him and liked him better. As it was, he came off as always disappearing on Diego, sending unintelligible looks his way, wandering around as eye candy, and just generally making Diego worry. Although I did give him major points for backing Diego up with his family.
I also would have liked to see Denise interacting with Diego and Beck more in some college scenes or something. It really felt her psychic powers came out of the blue; no foreshadowing, no hints, no family history, no nothing. It felt like the author pulling it out for convenience rather than being real.
Despite those criticisms, I did have fun reading it and really liked Diego and want to see what happens next with Hector (and everyone else). I'm hoping the next book has some more insight into Beck, because I want to like him more because Diego does. I definitely will be reading the next one. Oh, and that scene where they're finally trying to get a moment together and everyone keeps calling? That was priceless :)
January 1, 2018
Such a surprise. This was GOOOD!
I enjoyed this story on a couple of levels. This is a suspense story with M/M characters; not a romance. Well written with exciting action scenes, the storyline moves in a logical, fast pace so you won't feel lost - even with interspersed Spanish - and you can follow the plot points easily. So it's a really good paranormal suspense story.
I was pleasantly surprised by the secondary genre. I never thought I'd read a magic realism M/M story. Ruby Red does a good job capturing the supernatural world that's specific to Mexican-American culture. There is always a grandmother, talismans, witchcraft and the intrinsic, bone-deep acceptance of the Other. It's in our DNA.
The MCs are hot and Diego's kink is kinda awesome. The only item that stood out as needing a little work is the Spanish. It's a little stilted, but good about using the local slang. There isn't a lot of angst and the romance is a slow burn that really worked.
So...Wow! I loved it and read the book all in one sitting. The ending is a HFN and a cliff hanger. I want more of this universe and really hope the author has book 2 ready cuz I gotta know more!
January 21, 2018
Overall I enjoyed the story however, there were some things that didn't work so great for me.
I had a very difficult time remembering what all the different spanish phrases meant. I was very appreciative of the glossary but admit I was too lazy to keep trying to go back & forth every time I wanted to look something up. Context was good most of the time but not for everything.
I wanted more backstory for Beck & Diego. We had a good backstory for Diego himself, then a bit for how the couple met. Then we go straight into them being roommates as adults, then the action begins. I wanted more relationship development on page for them.
I was completely thrown for a loop when the wolves appeared, I didn't expect that paranormal element at all. It's not a bad thing, only my observation of "Where the heck did this come from?"
I found the ending to be supremely abrupt.
I had a very difficult time remembering what all the different spanish phrases meant. I was very appreciative of the glossary but admit I was too lazy to keep trying to go back & forth every time I wanted to look something up. Context was good most of the time but not for everything.
I wanted more backstory for Beck & Diego. We had a good backstory for Diego himself, then a bit for how the couple met. Then we go straight into them being roommates as adults, then the action begins. I wanted more relationship development on page for them.
I was completely thrown for a loop when the wolves appeared, I didn't expect that paranormal element at all. It's not a bad thing, only my observation of "Where the heck did this come from?"
I found the ending to be supremely abrupt.
March 27, 2020
First, in case anyone was wondering: no, Lexi Ander doesn't speak Spanish. Not a word, not even a little bit. I've seen worse, sadly, but it's still terrible. I gave the book a chance after seeing the glossary (she had the nerve!) thinking maybe it wasn't very prominent and I'd be able to overlook it, but I was wrong. It's honestly hard to read. The way she keeps dropping Spanish words at random, a lot of them misspelled, is embarrassing.
To be fair, her English isn't flawless either. But that is not a compliment, is it?
Now, the story isn't that bad. It didn't grip my interest, really, but the constant butchered Spanish could have something to do with that. Certain parts were way too long, there was some repetition, and a couple of scenes spiraled into ridiculousness fast. I believe I would have given it two stars if I had been born somewhere else.
To be fair, her English isn't flawless either. But that is not a compliment, is it?
Now, the story isn't that bad. It didn't grip my interest, really, but the constant butchered Spanish could have something to do with that. Certain parts were way too long, there was some repetition, and a couple of scenes spiraled into ridiculousness fast. I believe I would have given it two stars if I had been born somewhere else.
February 8, 2018
It was the title that first drew me to this book, then the blurb, but still it ended up on the TBR pile until I saw that there was a giveaway contest for this and other books all of which I already own and have read.
So, this got bumped up and I’m so glad it did. Diego is going to be awesome as he comes into his power, Beck and Denise should definitely have read the small print. It’s a slow burn romance with some miscommunication but a lot of love! I started reading at bedtime intending to just read a few pages then finish in the morning. 4 hours later and almost done, I had to stop for the night.
The end leaves so much unanswered, not exactly a cliffhanger ( I don’t like those) but then I found book two is also in my library. Happy Days!
So, this got bumped up and I’m so glad it did. Diego is going to be awesome as he comes into his power, Beck and Denise should definitely have read the small print. It’s a slow burn romance with some miscommunication but a lot of love! I started reading at bedtime intending to just read a few pages then finish in the morning. 4 hours later and almost done, I had to stop for the night.
The end leaves so much unanswered, not exactly a cliffhanger ( I don’t like those) but then I found book two is also in my library. Happy Days!
January 28, 2018
Ruby Red Booty Shorts and the Louisville slugger was a delightful surprise. Diego and his abuela are special from the get go I wanted to just wrap Diego up and hide him from the cruel world we live in and his abuela did just that in her own loving way. Beck is Diego's best friend and whom has secrets he hates he hates keeping from Diego but finds that Diego has secrets too but loves him as much as Beck loves Diego. I enjoyed the slow build to a beautiful love that knows no bounds and a surprise twist that will keep you on the edge of your sofa. If you like suspense and kicking ass read this book.
January 2, 2018
This is a fun story. It involves a friends to lovers tangle with communication issues due to the secrecy of the I.O.N organization. I loved the use of Parkour as part of our lovers backstory. I also enjoyed how Ms. Ander mixed in the various cultures and mythologies she used. I am writing this review because I had enter an ARC contest, but I already had three of the four ARCs. This happened to be one, I bought years ago when it was first published. After I read it, I had to reread the second in the series because I loved Diego and Beck.
January 21, 2018
Lovely story of loss, love, the secrets we all have. The inner horror of coming out to those we love. What we risk keeping things from those we love. Knowing if we want to be happy we have to take the first leap to see if the ones we like, like us back. With all this through in a mysterious man running a gang in the neighborhood. Gifts your born with. A brothers disappearance after going with the man. As an adult will the man holding Deigo's heart go the same way as his brother?
January 6, 2018
Good urban fantasy, I liked the intermix of families and events. The "miscommunication" trope is one that I generally don't enjoy, but it was explainable in this book.
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