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Sanctuary #10
By the Numbers
The final book in the Sanctuary series
Secrets and lies threaten Brandon and Daniel’s new love.
Brandon Hoselton is running scared, finding security in his obsession with patterns and numbers. With his family threatened, he feels he has nowhere left to go, and even considers ending his life to keep them safe. Until Sanctuary, in the shape of the enigmatic Daniel Karnes, gives him a reason to stay alive and offers the possibility of a future free from fear.
Former SEAL Daniel is new to Sanctuary, tasked with watching Brandon, a brilliant geek with way too many secrets. Falling in love with quirky Brandon is easy; now he just has to make sure secrets don’t end up with them both dying.
The only way of destroying Varga is to cut the crime boss’s money, and the two men become part of an intricate take-down involving millions of dollars. But Brandon has a secret he can never share with Daniel, and their new love is at stake.
When the villain has murder in mind, sometimes the only way to stay alive is to lie.
Secrets and lies threaten Brandon and Daniel’s new love.
Brandon Hoselton is running scared, finding security in his obsession with patterns and numbers. With his family threatened, he feels he has nowhere left to go, and even considers ending his life to keep them safe. Until Sanctuary, in the shape of the enigmatic Daniel Karnes, gives him a reason to stay alive and offers the possibility of a future free from fear.
Former SEAL Daniel is new to Sanctuary, tasked with watching Brandon, a brilliant geek with way too many secrets. Falling in love with quirky Brandon is easy; now he just has to make sure secrets don’t end up with them both dying.
The only way of destroying Varga is to cut the crime boss’s money, and the two men become part of an intricate take-down involving millions of dollars. But Brandon has a secret he can never share with Daniel, and their new love is at stake.
When the villain has murder in mind, sometimes the only way to stay alive is to lie.
ebook
First published May 15, 2017
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240 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Scott
306 books2,722 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
April 16, 2018
It would have to be the last book in the series that is my fave. It was a long and sometimes fruitless journey, but the storyline that started in book 1 is done. I adored Brandon in this book. He's a geek to his core, and his love for his sisters is limitless. He would die for them, and he plans for it. He's so brave in the face of fear, and his anguish when just finding love brought me to tears. Daniel was a rock, and he was strong and loving. I didn't love all the books in this series, but I am glad I stuck it out until the end.
May 24, 2017
The thing I love about this series is the great balance between action, suspense, and romance. The other thing that keeps me coming back for more? The characters. This time around, Brandon was the one who captured my focus. He has his quirks, is incredibly intelligent, and is fiercely protective of his sisters—he’ll do anything to keep them safe, even to his own detriment. He keeps himself centered through repetitive mannerisms such as reciting prime numbers or moving his fingers in particular patterns, known as “stimming”, which keeps him calm and focused. I found myself drawn to him from the very first chapter, and found myself feeling protective of him just like Daniel.
Daniel knows his job, does it well, and is one of those perfect alpha military males that will have you sighing and swooning. I thought he was a great match for Brandon, and that the two of them slotted together perfectly. And while lines may become blurred while they’re holed up in the safe houses, Daniel easily snaps back into Sanctuary protector mode when he has to in order to do his job.
The action is mostly confined to the last part of the story when all of the drama with Varga comes to a head (and let me just interject with an “ewww…” when it comes to that nasty old man…). Brandon is willing to sacrifice himself to save everyone else, and it’s the excitement of Daniel trying to avoid that fate that had me glued to the pages during those climactic scenes.
While By the Numbers is part of a ten book series and should not be read as a standalone, you can actually enjoy the story by picking up at book 8, Accidental Hero as that is where this particular story arc begins. I would personally recommend starting at the beginning of the series so you can meet all of the Sanctuary men and understand their relationships though, as I do believe it will enhance your enjoyment of the overall series (and all of the stories are all pretty great!).
By the Numbers gets 4.5 stars from me, the only part that had me rolling my eyes a little bit was near the end on the plane where I thought the last bit of “excitement” was a tad too much on top of the rest of the story…but otherwise, this book and the entire series I’ve marked as highly recommended, especially to fans of M/M romantic suspense. This story is for readers 18+ for adult language and a bit of M/M sexual content.
Daniel knows his job, does it well, and is one of those perfect alpha military males that will have you sighing and swooning. I thought he was a great match for Brandon, and that the two of them slotted together perfectly. And while lines may become blurred while they’re holed up in the safe houses, Daniel easily snaps back into Sanctuary protector mode when he has to in order to do his job.
The action is mostly confined to the last part of the story when all of the drama with Varga comes to a head (and let me just interject with an “ewww…” when it comes to that nasty old man…). Brandon is willing to sacrifice himself to save everyone else, and it’s the excitement of Daniel trying to avoid that fate that had me glued to the pages during those climactic scenes.
While By the Numbers is part of a ten book series and should not be read as a standalone, you can actually enjoy the story by picking up at book 8, Accidental Hero as that is where this particular story arc begins. I would personally recommend starting at the beginning of the series so you can meet all of the Sanctuary men and understand their relationships though, as I do believe it will enhance your enjoyment of the overall series (and all of the stories are all pretty great!).
By the Numbers gets 4.5 stars from me, the only part that had me rolling my eyes a little bit was near the end on the plane where I thought the last bit of “excitement” was a tad too much on top of the rest of the story…but otherwise, this book and the entire series I’ve marked as highly recommended, especially to fans of M/M romantic suspense. This story is for readers 18+ for adult language and a bit of M/M sexual content.
January 13, 2024
A good ending for this suspense series
Overall the Sanctuary series has had its ups and downs but this was a good book to finish up on.
It brings to a close the Chicago chapter of the series and wraps up the loose ends of the Vargas case whole giving us a new pairing
Brandon and Daniel couldn't be more different, but they definitely have a connection that sparks between them.
This is back towards the more slow burn element ofthe series as it takes a while for them to get down to any kind of relationship stuff, but when they do, it's sweet and steamy.
I liked Brandon's sisters too, they helped diffuse part of the 'repeat' nature of bring holed up in a safe house and falling for the bodyguard.
It was also good to see my fave ex-SEAL Joseph again as he came along to help out with the final takedown.
Overall the Sanctuary series has had its ups and downs but this was a good book to finish up on.
It brings to a close the Chicago chapter of the series and wraps up the loose ends of the Vargas case whole giving us a new pairing
Brandon and Daniel couldn't be more different, but they definitely have a connection that sparks between them.
This is back towards the more slow burn element ofthe series as it takes a while for them to get down to any kind of relationship stuff, but when they do, it's sweet and steamy.
I liked Brandon's sisters too, they helped diffuse part of the 'repeat' nature of bring holed up in a safe house and falling for the bodyguard.
It was also good to see my fave ex-SEAL Joseph again as he came along to help out with the final takedown.
May 18, 2017
Brandon Hoselton is unique; he self-stimulates (aka stimming) by using numbers. He is also holding a vital secret in his head, for a dangerous man. He’s recovered somewhat from an injury, and is in a safehouse with his sisters, Yvonne and Hanna. Brandon’s goal is to keep his sisters safe, and take down this diabolical criminal, no matter the danger.
Daniel Karnes is the Sanctuary agent who has taken over protecting Brandon and his sisters. Brandon doesn’t know how to handle the situation, what he’s feeling for Daniel, and he really can’t have all this chaos inside his head. No matter how hard the agents from Sanctuary try, Bandon isn’t giving up his secret. Brandon comes to trust Daniel, little by little, and really tries to tell him as much of the truth as he can, without jeopardizing his own goal.
With the guidance of the Sanctuary experts, they’ve come up with a plan to take down this monster criminal. Brandon has the vital numbers in his head, and he’s the only one who can bring this to a close. He keeps his own private plan to himself, to keep his sisters safe, but Brandon has gotten very close to Daniel—and now Brandon has to think about keeping Daniel safe too.
RJ Scott delivered an explosive end to the Sanctuary series with By the Numbers. This book is a page-turner, with lots of mystery, suspense, action and danger. The practice of stimming, for Brandon, was interesting and something that wasn’t addressed in the previous novels. Brandon and Daniel really have a special chemistry, and there’s a lot of understanding on Daniel’s side. Brandon’s sister also see him as warm, loving, and always being the big brother for them. There are multiple appearances by characters from the previous books, and I know I’ll revisit this riveting series.
I highly recommend reading Accidental Hero, book eight, and Ghost, book nine, as both exciting installments will start you on the path to how Michael, Jaime, and Brandon began this dangerous journey.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
Daniel Karnes is the Sanctuary agent who has taken over protecting Brandon and his sisters. Brandon doesn’t know how to handle the situation, what he’s feeling for Daniel, and he really can’t have all this chaos inside his head. No matter how hard the agents from Sanctuary try, Bandon isn’t giving up his secret. Brandon comes to trust Daniel, little by little, and really tries to tell him as much of the truth as he can, without jeopardizing his own goal.
With the guidance of the Sanctuary experts, they’ve come up with a plan to take down this monster criminal. Brandon has the vital numbers in his head, and he’s the only one who can bring this to a close. He keeps his own private plan to himself, to keep his sisters safe, but Brandon has gotten very close to Daniel—and now Brandon has to think about keeping Daniel safe too.
RJ Scott delivered an explosive end to the Sanctuary series with By the Numbers. This book is a page-turner, with lots of mystery, suspense, action and danger. The practice of stimming, for Brandon, was interesting and something that wasn’t addressed in the previous novels. Brandon and Daniel really have a special chemistry, and there’s a lot of understanding on Daniel’s side. Brandon’s sister also see him as warm, loving, and always being the big brother for them. There are multiple appearances by characters from the previous books, and I know I’ll revisit this riveting series.
I highly recommend reading Accidental Hero, book eight, and Ghost, book nine, as both exciting installments will start you on the path to how Michael, Jaime, and Brandon began this dangerous journey.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
May 28, 2017
This is the exciting conclusion to the Sanctuary series. I’ve only read books 8-10 to follow this part of the story arc, and have enjoyed each one and the different romance pairings. While confined in various safe houses Brandon and Daniel fall for each other. There's some tingling UST as the two men resist this attraction at first.
Daniel, a former SEAL, now a Sanctuary operative is tasked with protecting Brandon and his two sisters. Brandon exhibits autistic traits, shown through his thoughts and repetitive calming techniques. He’s gifted with regard to numbers and calculations, but there’s something he won’t share, not even with Daniel. He has a plan and has resigned himself to the fact that he might die as a result of his actions, but he’s prepared to do anything to protect his sisters from the evil reach of Varga. Brandon comes across as geeky at times, yet there’s a depth to his character that captures Daniel’s heart. He’s certainly an interesting and complex character.
The suspense builds as the other Sanctuary operatives close in on Varga’s operation, but Brandon keeps his secret to himself. There’s tension as the reader wonders whether his plan will work out or will he forfeit his life and the romance that has blossomed with Daniel. Daniel is distracted by his feelings, but he’s a professional and will do his utmost to protect Brandon. There’s an action-packed climax to the story in the last few chapters, with plenty of suspense and excitement.
This is an enjoyable light read, not too complex, yet with enough depth to maintain your interest.
Daniel, a former SEAL, now a Sanctuary operative is tasked with protecting Brandon and his two sisters. Brandon exhibits autistic traits, shown through his thoughts and repetitive calming techniques. He’s gifted with regard to numbers and calculations, but there’s something he won’t share, not even with Daniel. He has a plan and has resigned himself to the fact that he might die as a result of his actions, but he’s prepared to do anything to protect his sisters from the evil reach of Varga. Brandon comes across as geeky at times, yet there’s a depth to his character that captures Daniel’s heart. He’s certainly an interesting and complex character.
The suspense builds as the other Sanctuary operatives close in on Varga’s operation, but Brandon keeps his secret to himself. There’s tension as the reader wonders whether his plan will work out or will he forfeit his life and the romance that has blossomed with Daniel. Daniel is distracted by his feelings, but he’s a professional and will do his utmost to protect Brandon. There’s an action-packed climax to the story in the last few chapters, with plenty of suspense and excitement.
This is an enjoyable light read, not too complex, yet with enough depth to maintain your interest.
July 30, 2020
Couldn't finish this book
I found this book to be really irritating, perhaps I've just read to many of them. The books really started to go downhill when Cain's story was told. The characters in that book, and from then on just became so unbelievable, the organisation that was supposed to be so intelligent just turned into a farce, and the storyline just ridiculous. Thank goodness this book was in KU .
I found this book to be really irritating, perhaps I've just read to many of them. The books really started to go downhill when Cain's story was told. The characters in that book, and from then on just became so unbelievable, the organisation that was supposed to be so intelligent just turned into a farce, and the storyline just ridiculous. Thank goodness this book was in KU .
May 23, 2017
4.25 stars
November 11, 2021
Daniel (also a newer Sanctuary operative) and Brandon (the accountant that everyone has been chasing, who has many, many secrets). A good finish to the series.
Bought from kindle.
Bought from kindle.
May 18, 2017
¸.•´¸★*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤Waited forever and loved to the end!¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
It's weird being excited about the beginning of the end. But in hindsight, all good things must come to an end and Sanctuary gave a good run. This is one series I spent one weekend completing the first six books and I am going to re-read the entire series once again.
Secrets and Lies
Brandon had a date with the devil, and it will take everything in Daniel to keep him safe. The former SEAL, now Sanctuary operative was having just a hard of a time keeping work and his growing attraction to his charge separate. With a head full of information, Brandon's only concern was keeping his sisters safe. For Daniel, nothing came before the job, and the job was Brandon.
They had one opportunity to souse out the incomparable Varga, a man Sanctuary had been trying to take down for a long time. Even with the chemistry between them, burning and flammable, there was still so much these two had to learn about each other.
I loved how RJ interjected realism in her works and although Brandon was a complex character, "I was the guy who could see patterns and create algorithms that would make the system vulnerable..." she was able to keep him so with all that was going on in his brain, but make him human enough to know when he was making mistakes or taking what he wanted. And I loved how his mouth spoke before his brain caught on.
An example of the excellent writing skills... Sorry RJ, but it could not be explain in less words, or using my own.
The man was always thinking, questioning, and there was something about him that intrigued Daniel. Sometimes he looked so composed, like he’d spent hours learning how to sit just right and what words to string together into sentences. Other times he was that nervous man, with the pattern of touching his fingers in a rhythm, and there were moments when he seemed to space out completely. Daniel was a person who dealt with black and white, with absolutes, but there was something about Brandon that spoke of a million shades of color in his thoughts.
You cannot read By the Numbers without delving into the last two books. And it makes no sense skipping the previous seven. So just one click and enjoy the series that brought intensity, opposites attract and James Bond-ness meets MI-5. I have enjoyed, I have loved and I will miss my boys. But all is never truly an end until the fat lady sings. And with a series this good, RJ's brain is being invaded like Brandon's when he sees patterns. I see more in the future.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Love Lane Books Limited
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤Waited forever and loved to the end!¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
It's weird being excited about the beginning of the end. But in hindsight, all good things must come to an end and Sanctuary gave a good run. This is one series I spent one weekend completing the first six books and I am going to re-read the entire series once again.
Secrets and Lies
Brandon had a date with the devil, and it will take everything in Daniel to keep him safe. The former SEAL, now Sanctuary operative was having just a hard of a time keeping work and his growing attraction to his charge separate. With a head full of information, Brandon's only concern was keeping his sisters safe. For Daniel, nothing came before the job, and the job was Brandon.
They had one opportunity to souse out the incomparable Varga, a man Sanctuary had been trying to take down for a long time. Even with the chemistry between them, burning and flammable, there was still so much these two had to learn about each other.
I loved how RJ interjected realism in her works and although Brandon was a complex character, "I was the guy who could see patterns and create algorithms that would make the system vulnerable..." she was able to keep him so with all that was going on in his brain, but make him human enough to know when he was making mistakes or taking what he wanted. And I loved how his mouth spoke before his brain caught on.
An example of the excellent writing skills... Sorry RJ, but it could not be explain in less words, or using my own.
The man was always thinking, questioning, and there was something about him that intrigued Daniel. Sometimes he looked so composed, like he’d spent hours learning how to sit just right and what words to string together into sentences. Other times he was that nervous man, with the pattern of touching his fingers in a rhythm, and there were moments when he seemed to space out completely. Daniel was a person who dealt with black and white, with absolutes, but there was something about Brandon that spoke of a million shades of color in his thoughts.
You cannot read By the Numbers without delving into the last two books. And it makes no sense skipping the previous seven. So just one click and enjoy the series that brought intensity, opposites attract and James Bond-ness meets MI-5. I have enjoyed, I have loved and I will miss my boys. But all is never truly an end until the fat lady sings. And with a series this good, RJ's brain is being invaded like Brandon's when he sees patterns. I see more in the future.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Love Lane Books Limited
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
November 26, 2019
Daniel, el nuevo recluta de Sanctuary Chigado y Brandon, un testigo contra la organizacion de Varga, estan encerrados en una de las casas seguras de Sanctury en Chicago, donde intentan protegerlo de Varga para que pueda ayudarlos a conseguir las pruebas para desmantelar la organizacion.
Brandon tiene un TOC con los numeros, casi como un sindrome de Asperger, donde puede determinar patrones incluidos en numeros y sistemas informaticos.
Brandon solo quiere proteger a sus hermanas, pero Daniel quiere protegerlo a el en primer lugar, Ambos deciden comenzar una relacion, ya que la quimica entre ellos es intensa, lo que los lleva a enamorarse. Sin embargo lo primero para Brandon siempre son sus hermanas, y para el su obligacion es mantenerlas seguras por lo que idea un plan totalmente loco para destruir a Varga y "explotar" su organizacion desde adentro.
Lo que mas me gusto de este libro es la forma como Daniel entiende la obscesion de Brandon por los numeros, y aun lo ama con todas sus locuras. Tambien la forma como se trato este sindrome (aunque sin nombrarlo especificamente), asi como te hace sentir que las personas con TOC son tan normales como todos los demas y que solo tienes que amarlos y aceptarlos como son.
Brandon tiene un TOC con los numeros, casi como un sindrome de Asperger, donde puede determinar patrones incluidos en numeros y sistemas informaticos.
Brandon solo quiere proteger a sus hermanas, pero Daniel quiere protegerlo a el en primer lugar, Ambos deciden comenzar una relacion, ya que la quimica entre ellos es intensa, lo que los lleva a enamorarse. Sin embargo lo primero para Brandon siempre son sus hermanas, y para el su obligacion es mantenerlas seguras por lo que idea un plan totalmente loco para destruir a Varga y "explotar" su organizacion desde adentro.
Lo que mas me gusto de este libro es la forma como Daniel entiende la obscesion de Brandon por los numeros, y aun lo ama con todas sus locuras. Tambien la forma como se trato este sindrome (aunque sin nombrarlo especificamente), asi como te hace sentir que las personas con TOC son tan normales como todos los demas y que solo tienes que amarlos y aceptarlos como son.
August 15, 2018
Finale...I think
Brandon is the last one standing after the events discussed in books 8 & 9. Daniel is assigned to guard Brandon and his sisters and discover what Brandon knows that might bring down Vargas and his child trafficking ring. Nearly the whole story is set in the safe house as Daniel & Brandon fall into sex and love but it’s pretty low heat overall. Brandon has his own plans that lead to the action sequence at the end. There’s always a bit of a formula to these stories but they’re made interesting by the suspense plots the characters move through. Not always very strong in the romantic sense. I had to reread the last two books before this but I’m still not sure where the Vargas case fits in after book 7. It gets wrapped up in this one though and no new characters are introduced so I’m pretty sure this is the last. The series has been dependably intriguing with each book unfolding a segment of a continuing mystery plot. I’ve enjoyed them all.
Brandon is the last one standing after the events discussed in books 8 & 9. Daniel is assigned to guard Brandon and his sisters and discover what Brandon knows that might bring down Vargas and his child trafficking ring. Nearly the whole story is set in the safe house as Daniel & Brandon fall into sex and love but it’s pretty low heat overall. Brandon has his own plans that lead to the action sequence at the end. There’s always a bit of a formula to these stories but they’re made interesting by the suspense plots the characters move through. Not always very strong in the romantic sense. I had to reread the last two books before this but I’m still not sure where the Vargas case fits in after book 7. It gets wrapped up in this one though and no new characters are introduced so I’m pretty sure this is the last. The series has been dependably intriguing with each book unfolding a segment of a continuing mystery plot. I’ve enjoyed them all.
August 29, 2020
Brandon finds himself in the care of Sanctuary when he becomes the last one standing and in possession of the information that will bring down the key figure that is causing so much mayhem. Daniel might be new to Sanctuary but he knows what he needs to do to keep Brandon safe. But when the two act on their attraction does this give Brandon the chance to override the safety that surrounds him? Will he give put himself in the middle of the mayhem in order to keep his sisters safe? With idiosyncrasies that I found endearing and with the need to give Brandon an hug this was a great ending to the series. So many men, so much love, just the right amount of happiness.
September 2, 2018
I didn’t like Brandon, and the finale was a bit meh.
The overall plot in this series 4.5 stars, the only reason non of the books actually got that rating was the romance part, they kinda killed the mood for me, while I did like most of the characters, there was not a single pairing I liked or felt added to the story.
The overall plot in this series 4.5 stars, the only reason non of the books actually got that rating was the romance part, they kinda killed the mood for me, while I did like most of the characters, there was not a single pairing I liked or felt added to the story.
March 22, 2024
Fin de l'arc de l'enquête de Chicago, ce tome voit l'aboutissement de la traque de Varga, l'immonde trafiquant d'êtres humains/de drogue/d'argent (ne rayez pas la mention inutile).
Consacré à Brandon, le comptable sexy souffrant à mon avis d'un syndrome autistique, terriblement attachant avec sa personnalité et ses insécurités, et à Daniel, l'un des nouveaux venus au sanctuaire (et oui, ils ont casé tous les anciens, ils faut bien qu'ils embauchent...), ex SEAL, tout plein de muscles et de testostérone, protecteur (c'est dans son ADN), sexy et qui ne comprend pas toujours tout face à l'homme qu'il doit protéger, et qui s'est frayé un chemin sous sa peau.
C'est mignon de voir ces deux opposés se tourner autour, même si c'est assez caricatural (le musclé fonceur et le geek sexy et mignon), mais le danger continue de roder et le point culminant de la mission arrive à grands pas... on sait d'ailleurs très bien que, bien entendu, rien ne va se passer comme c'est prévu, c'est normal.
En finalité, ils s'en sortent plutôt pas trop mal (mais bon, avec 150 pages, on va pas s'éterniser non plus), et voilà l'arc de Chicago bouché et le sanctuaire qui récupère un autre petit génie qui vient en binôme de Manny.
Je ne sais pas s'il y aura une suite, après tout, Chicago ou une toute autre ville du monde ne manque pas de mafieux et de malfrats, et l'auteur peut rajouter à volonté une cargaison de mâles ex SEAL/DEA/CIA/FBI/Rangers/etc etc... ou si la série est terminée, si quelqu'un à des infos...
Bref, en tous les cas, une série plutôt sympa, je pense que les premiers tomes faisaient partie de mes premières lectures MM, ça remonte, il y a de l'aventure, de la tension, de la justice, des enquêtes, de l'amour, de l'amitié, du sexe, de la technologie, du suspens, de quoi faire passer un bon moment pas trop prise de tête, si on passe en silence les incohérences et les grosses ficelles...
Consacré à Brandon, le comptable sexy souffrant à mon avis d'un syndrome autistique, terriblement attachant avec sa personnalité et ses insécurités, et à Daniel, l'un des nouveaux venus au sanctuaire (et oui, ils ont casé tous les anciens, ils faut bien qu'ils embauchent...), ex SEAL, tout plein de muscles et de testostérone, protecteur (c'est dans son ADN), sexy et qui ne comprend pas toujours tout face à l'homme qu'il doit protéger, et qui s'est frayé un chemin sous sa peau.
C'est mignon de voir ces deux opposés se tourner autour, même si c'est assez caricatural (le musclé fonceur et le geek sexy et mignon), mais le danger continue de roder et le point culminant de la mission arrive à grands pas... on sait d'ailleurs très bien que, bien entendu, rien ne va se passer comme c'est prévu, c'est normal.
En finalité, ils s'en sortent plutôt pas trop mal (mais bon, avec 150 pages, on va pas s'éterniser non plus), et voilà l'arc de Chicago bouché et le sanctuaire qui récupère un autre petit génie qui vient en binôme de Manny.
Je ne sais pas s'il y aura une suite, après tout, Chicago ou une toute autre ville du monde ne manque pas de mafieux et de malfrats, et l'auteur peut rajouter à volonté une cargaison de mâles ex SEAL/DEA/CIA/FBI/Rangers/etc etc... ou si la série est terminée, si quelqu'un à des infos...
Bref, en tous les cas, une série plutôt sympa, je pense que les premiers tomes faisaient partie de mes premières lectures MM, ça remonte, il y a de l'aventure, de la tension, de la justice, des enquêtes, de l'amour, de l'amitié, du sexe, de la technologie, du suspens, de quoi faire passer un bon moment pas trop prise de tête, si on passe en silence les incohérences et les grosses ficelles...
February 26, 2024
3/5 I was glad to see everything wrap up and get a lot of HEAs for these hard-working guys. I liked that we had a neurodivergent MC here and wish we’d had a bit more space for Daniel to follow-through on his plan to learn more about stimming, things that were triggers for Brandon, etc., and otherwise supporting him.
I had trouble wrapping my head around Brandon’s actions and motivations from the last book where he literally tried to kill himself to this book where it becomes apparent that he had an entire plan. I didn’t really buy the “must do this on his own” when he had a group who could support him and help ensure his success if only he would talk to them. It was all supposed to be mixed in with selflessly caring for others over himself, but it just came out a bit muddled to me. I guess people get caught up in plans all the time, but it seemed a bit forced. I guess we never did learn just how Brandon got mixed into it all, but his position with Varga seems so close/complicated that it seems like he would have been way higher on the radar way sooner. (Did Amy not talk to Michael or Jamie? There was no hint of this third best friend who’s entirely embroiled in all this?) Maybe accountants are almost always on the fringes in mobs, it just felt a bit off for me. (I also felt like a list that is both a hit list and a watch list is really just asking for trouble and a bit of a cop out.) Really, I want to get Brandon into therapy and give him some recovery time.
I enjoyed Brandon’s relationship with numbers, Daniel’s protectiveness and determination, what Brandon did with the money, and what I think we can all agree is karma for Varga. I liked the glimpse of the future in the epilogue.
I had trouble wrapping my head around Brandon’s actions and motivations from the last book where he literally tried to kill himself to this book where it becomes apparent that he had an entire plan. I didn’t really buy the “must do this on his own” when he had a group who could support him and help ensure his success if only he would talk to them. It was all supposed to be mixed in with selflessly caring for others over himself, but it just came out a bit muddled to me. I guess people get caught up in plans all the time, but it seemed a bit forced. I guess we never did learn just how Brandon got mixed into it all, but his position with Varga seems so close/complicated that it seems like he would have been way higher on the radar way sooner. (Did Amy not talk to Michael or Jamie? There was no hint of this third best friend who’s entirely embroiled in all this?) Maybe accountants are almost always on the fringes in mobs, it just felt a bit off for me. (I also felt like a list that is both a hit list and a watch list is really just asking for trouble and a bit of a cop out.) Really, I want to get Brandon into therapy and give him some recovery time.
I enjoyed Brandon’s relationship with numbers, Daniel’s protectiveness and determination, what Brandon did with the money, and what I think we can all agree is karma for Varga. I liked the glimpse of the future in the epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2025
Brandon Hoselton is a brilliant but emotionally guarded man who uses logic and code to navigate a chaotic world. When his family is threatened, he’s forced to accept help from Sanctuary—a covert organization that assigns Daniel Karnes, a battle-scarred former Navy SEAL, to protect him. Daniel expects a routine mission, but Brandon’s courage, vulnerability, and hidden depths quickly unravel his defenses. As they work together to dismantle a dangerous criminal empire, their bond intensifies—but Brandon’s secrets could jeopardize everything. In a world of violence, betrayal, and buried truths, Daniel must decide if love is worth the risk… especially when the greatest danger may lie in the truths they refuse to face.
I loved this story which was a compelling blend of emotional vulnerability, high-stakes danger, and the slow unraveling of trust. I enjoyed that Brandon relies on numbers, code, and structure to make sense of a chaotic world whereas Daniel, shaped by physicality and instinct, operates from emotion and experience. Their dynamic explored how intellect and feeling can clash—and ultimately complement each other. I was also interested in how Brandon’s hidden truths threatened not just the mission, but their lives. The weight of secrecy could both protect but also endanger, and how silence can be both a shield and a prison. I loved the thought about what are we willing to risk to keep others safe, and what happens when the truth finally breaks through? Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
I loved this story which was a compelling blend of emotional vulnerability, high-stakes danger, and the slow unraveling of trust. I enjoyed that Brandon relies on numbers, code, and structure to make sense of a chaotic world whereas Daniel, shaped by physicality and instinct, operates from emotion and experience. Their dynamic explored how intellect and feeling can clash—and ultimately complement each other. I was also interested in how Brandon’s hidden truths threatened not just the mission, but their lives. The weight of secrecy could both protect but also endanger, and how silence can be both a shield and a prison. I loved the thought about what are we willing to risk to keep others safe, and what happens when the truth finally breaks through? Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
September 16, 2017
Deadly Denouement
This one may be the final installment of the series because I did not see another couple of MCs coming out of the shadows for the next book. If that is true, this one is among the wildest, and strangest, in the series.
That's because we have an obsessive-compulsive semi-geek MC in Brandon (background on the cover), and a focused but also extremely protective ex-SEAL bodyguard in Daniel (foreground). The latter is assigned to protect Brandon and his sisters Hannah and Yvonne, in a continuation of the plot unleashed in the past two editions of the series.
Though the sisters are sometimes uselessly distracting, and the fierce reasons Brandon is so protective never revealed, it is the clash of personalities, goals, and instincts between him and Daniel that keep the plot moving--even if Brandon does slide off the edge at times in his duplicitous approach to solving the task at hand (no spoilers).
This is a fast read like all the others, and the love making is haphazard at times but eventually well settled. Author Scott has created a terrific organization in Sanctuary and a plethora of hot men and hot plots to keep you chewing your nails all night long. Bravo!
This one may be the final installment of the series because I did not see another couple of MCs coming out of the shadows for the next book. If that is true, this one is among the wildest, and strangest, in the series.
That's because we have an obsessive-compulsive semi-geek MC in Brandon (background on the cover), and a focused but also extremely protective ex-SEAL bodyguard in Daniel (foreground). The latter is assigned to protect Brandon and his sisters Hannah and Yvonne, in a continuation of the plot unleashed in the past two editions of the series.
Though the sisters are sometimes uselessly distracting, and the fierce reasons Brandon is so protective never revealed, it is the clash of personalities, goals, and instincts between him and Daniel that keep the plot moving--even if Brandon does slide off the edge at times in his duplicitous approach to solving the task at hand (no spoilers).
This is a fast read like all the others, and the love making is haphazard at times but eventually well settled. Author Scott has created a terrific organization in Sanctuary and a plethora of hot men and hot plots to keep you chewing your nails all night long. Bravo!
December 13, 2022
After almost killing himself, Brandon is recovering with his sisters in a safe house run by Sanctuary. He’s anxious, doing a lot of stimming, and blurting out his feelings for Daniel, his bodyguard. But he’s also keeping secrets in hopes of bringing down Varga, the horrible man in charge of getting his best friends killed and numerous other crimes.
Daniel is attracted to Brandon, but knows he’s lying about what he knows about Varga. Slowly, they build enough trust that Brandon shares more and they set up a sting.
However, Brandon doesn’t want anyone hurt, so when the time is right, he escapes the safe house and goes to Varga’s compound. He’s welcomed, but learns Varga’s having a party and will kill everyone in the house with bombs that are set to go off after he’s escaped.
Daniel and Joseph come to rescue Brandon, who has saved all the party goers and has enough to bring down Varga’s organization.
Great suspense at the end of the book, and interesting conclusion to the series.
KU
Daniel is attracted to Brandon, but knows he’s lying about what he knows about Varga. Slowly, they build enough trust that Brandon shares more and they set up a sting.
However, Brandon doesn’t want anyone hurt, so when the time is right, he escapes the safe house and goes to Varga’s compound. He’s welcomed, but learns Varga’s having a party and will kill everyone in the house with bombs that are set to go off after he’s escaped.
Daniel and Joseph come to rescue Brandon, who has saved all the party goers and has enough to bring down Varga’s organization.
Great suspense at the end of the book, and interesting conclusion to the series.
KU
March 14, 2023
4.5 stars
Ah, a return to what made this series great; action, adventure, danger, angst, a plot that makes sense, secrets, etc. I knocked off half a star because there wasn’t any serious injury or peril or hospital scene or anything. The ending was cute too.
There are women again which is unusual but of course, they’re young college kids who need protecting and aren’t involved at all. They’re just in the book to be protected. It wouldn’t be typical to have brothers being rescued and protected. No. More freakin’ sexism.
I love that Brandon has OCD and tics.
Sudoku isn’t a math game. It can be done with any nine unique characters or pictures. It’s just easier to use something in a sequence like numbers. Letters work just as well.
Ah, a return to what made this series great; action, adventure, danger, angst, a plot that makes sense, secrets, etc. I knocked off half a star because there wasn’t any serious injury or peril or hospital scene or anything. The ending was cute too.
There are women again which is unusual but of course, they’re young college kids who need protecting and aren’t involved at all. They’re just in the book to be protected. It wouldn’t be typical to have brothers being rescued and protected. No. More freakin’ sexism.
I love that Brandon has OCD and tics.
Sudoku isn’t a math game. It can be done with any nine unique characters or pictures. It’s just easier to use something in a sequence like numbers. Letters work just as well.
May 29, 2018
A Very Good Read
Sanctuary received a hit list that Varga, was going to kill Brandon. They traced Brandon down and Daniel was in charge. Someone picked up his sisters Hanna and Yvonne and they met at temporary safehouse., Between Brandon's sisters following him around flirting with him and Brandon's crazy quirks Daniel would be real happy to transfer to a bigger safehouse. After they moved two Sanctuay men went to Brandon's house to find his hidden files on Varga..This book had action, suspense and romance. I enjoyed reading this book , it was a very good read.
Sanctuary received a hit list that Varga, was going to kill Brandon. They traced Brandon down and Daniel was in charge. Someone picked up his sisters Hanna and Yvonne and they met at temporary safehouse., Between Brandon's sisters following him around flirting with him and Brandon's crazy quirks Daniel would be real happy to transfer to a bigger safehouse. After they moved two Sanctuay men went to Brandon's house to find his hidden files on Varga..This book had action, suspense and romance. I enjoyed reading this book , it was a very good read.
March 14, 2020
Brilliant
I loved this series, a never ending stream of good looking, tough, gay heroes. Who doesn't love an ex SEAL, Cop or FBI agent doing what they love best, beating the bad guys mixed with plenty of loving. I read all Ten books back to back, couldn't put them down and I'm feeling a bit deflated now that I have finished the series. I have wanted to read this series for some time and was so pleased when it came to Kindle Unlimited as these are exactly the type of storylines I enjoy.
I loved this series, a never ending stream of good looking, tough, gay heroes. Who doesn't love an ex SEAL, Cop or FBI agent doing what they love best, beating the bad guys mixed with plenty of loving. I read all Ten books back to back, couldn't put them down and I'm feeling a bit deflated now that I have finished the series. I have wanted to read this series for some time and was so pleased when it came to Kindle Unlimited as these are exactly the type of storylines I enjoy.
January 14, 2022
Fantastic conclusion to the Sanctuary series. Brandon, first mentioned in the previous book, in in protective custody as part of the Varga organized crime case. Daniel is the new operative assigned to guard Brandon and his two sisters. Brandon is a savant with numbers and has been undercover dealing with the Varga accounts for some time. As Brandon and Daniel fall in love, can they stay out of danger long enough to solve the case? Very satisfactory end to the series and consistently good as the previous books. Good reading!
May 26, 2024
Awww! I loved Brandon, even when he annoyed me. He had difficulty trusting, and while his intelligence is normally benefits him, it also stymies him here when he can't see beyond what he thinks is the only optimum solution. Daniel falls for Brandon and his quirks, and Brandon wants to be with Daniel in the biggest way but doesn't think it is possible. This book went pretty quickly, and I was glad with how everything worked out. I am very sad to see the end of the Sanctuary crew and series.
February 3, 2024
The second set of stories set in Chicago were not quite as fast moving and enjoyable as the first Albany stories. That said, I did enjoy seeing Sanctuary continue to develop and the operative's connections and interactions were fun. All of these are worth reading to see how R.J. has developed her writing style over time.
December 2, 2017
Excited
Love this series. I am hoping for book 11. Each book was as exciting to read as the last book.
Love this series. I am hoping for book 11. Each book was as exciting to read as the last book.
February 1, 2018
Wonderful ending to a great series. I'll miss these guys.
April 22, 2018
OMG!!!
I can't even begin to give this book or the series the praise it deserves. Our of all the guys and the turmoil they faced, I think Brandon's was the hardest. The weight of all he was dealing with only Sean could truly understand and still not completely. I am blown away on how each book and the many steps the various characters made woven together so perfectly. There was no way I could of imagined when I started book 1 all the ups, downs, twists, and turns the story and my emotions would take. All 10 books were an excellent read coming together to make such a fantastic journey. They are a must read I HIGHLY recommend.
I can't even begin to give this book or the series the praise it deserves. Our of all the guys and the turmoil they faced, I think Brandon's was the hardest. The weight of all he was dealing with only Sean could truly understand and still not completely. I am blown away on how each book and the many steps the various characters made woven together so perfectly. There was no way I could of imagined when I started book 1 all the ups, downs, twists, and turns the story and my emotions would take. All 10 books were an excellent read coming together to make such a fantastic journey. They are a must read I HIGHLY recommend.
June 10, 2019
Me gustó mucho mas que los anteriores porque he sentido que el romance se desarrolla al mismo tiempo que la acción y me agrada al camino que conduce, bastante interesante.
March 20, 2022
love this series, sad to see end
Loved this whole series and all the people! Sad to see it ending. Loved Daniel and Brandon and watching them find their way to each other.
Loved this whole series and all the people! Sad to see it ending. Loved Daniel and Brandon and watching them find their way to each other.
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