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One Last Heist
One last heist.
It should’ve been easy. Crack a safe, steal from a villain, and go on vacation. The last thing Mack and Toshiro expect is to descend into a nightmare of betrayal.
Mack Ueda-Easton loves three things: his husband, heists, and his odd family of friends. He lives life on the edge. The only cloud on his horizon is the degenerative disease stealing his sight.
Toshiro Ueda-Easton tries to juggle his husband, his autistic sister, his interfering mother, and all of their heists. He knows they’re spiraling out of control and the journey they’re travelling can’t last.
What neither of them expect is to get catapulted straight into a dangerous conspiracy. They’re now in a race to come out on top. If they fail, the consequences are unimaginable.
It should’ve been easy. Crack a safe, steal from a villain, and go on vacation. The last thing Mack and Toshiro expect is to descend into a nightmare of betrayal.
Mack Ueda-Easton loves three things: his husband, heists, and his odd family of friends. He lives life on the edge. The only cloud on his horizon is the degenerative disease stealing his sight.
Toshiro Ueda-Easton tries to juggle his husband, his autistic sister, his interfering mother, and all of their heists. He knows they’re spiraling out of control and the journey they’re travelling can’t last.
What neither of them expect is to get catapulted straight into a dangerous conspiracy. They’re now in a race to come out on top. If they fail, the consequences are unimaginable.
195 pages, ebook
First published May 26, 2018
About the author
Dahlia Donovan
45 books742 followersDahlia Donovan wrote her first romance series after a crazy dream about shifters and damsels in distress. She prefers irreverent humour and unconventional characters. An autistic and occasional hermit, her life wouldn’t be complete without her husband and her massive collection of books and video games.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 20, 2018
~ 3.5 stars ~
This was an okay book.
I really liked all the characters! Not only the MCs, Mack and Toshi, but also Charlie, Toshiro's autistic twin sister, Dom, her girlfriend, and Jude. Mack and Toshi's relationship is strong and unwavering even after having been together since their teenage years and the bond between all five friends is beautiful. If you are a fan of banter, you'll enjoy the MCs and their friendly bickering.
Sadly, though, the story had a thrown-together feel to it and scenes that could have been heart-stoppingly exciting were resolved too quickly and easily for my liking. Sometimes, especially when it came to Jude and the circumstances that bound him to a wheelchair, I was feeling like I missed a previous book that would have given more details. The incidence was mentioned often but without revealing anything about what really happened. Maybe Jude will get his own book someday and it will shed some light on his past.
Overall, this was a fun and easy read to pass a few hours.
This was an okay book.
I really liked all the characters! Not only the MCs, Mack and Toshi, but also Charlie, Toshiro's autistic twin sister, Dom, her girlfriend, and Jude. Mack and Toshi's relationship is strong and unwavering even after having been together since their teenage years and the bond between all five friends is beautiful. If you are a fan of banter, you'll enjoy the MCs and their friendly bickering.
Sadly, though, the story had a thrown-together feel to it and scenes that could have been heart-stoppingly exciting were resolved too quickly and easily for my liking. Sometimes, especially when it came to Jude and the circumstances that bound him to a wheelchair, I was feeling like I missed a previous book that would have given more details. The incidence was mentioned often but without revealing anything about what really happened. Maybe Jude will get his own book someday and it will shed some light on his past.
Overall, this was a fun and easy read to pass a few hours.
March 6, 2021
3.5. I really enjoyed this one. It follows an established couple, we don't know their precise ages but they are in their 30s and have been together since high school. They are very much in love throughout so the tension is external. They were very cute and childish but in a good way (food fights and other banter) and steamy. There was a heist but that's not really the main storyline, weird stuff were happening to them and they were trying to figure out why/what/who. It kept my interest but I felt that the resolution was lacking: we did not get the full story and I didn't get how it was all linked to the heist they did at the beginning of the book (it is supposed to be linked but I didn't really get it). It's not that the ending is open, it's not, it's simply that we did not get all the information. I wanted more basically. Otherwise it was nice and very diverse (almost too much so, we have an autistic character, an African American even though we are in the UK, a trans character, a character in a wheelchair, a biracial Asian/british character who is a polyglot). It wasn't tokenism as such but it felt kind of forced. I would recommend it, it was nice
February 16, 2022
This was an okay book and follows an already established couple and a not so well done heist with few plot holes and unrealistic dialogues.
Didn't particularly like it, neither did I hate it.
Didn't particularly like it, neither did I hate it.
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May 29, 2018A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
This is a difficult review to write since this book had a haphazard and thrown together feel to me. The basics are there, but the delivery and the structure of the story really did not work for me. The start had potential as Mack and Toshiro have a great dynamic. They are so in love with each other, never tire of each other, and after years still can’t keep their hands off of each other. This was a whole lot of fun until it just wasn’t anymore.
The book is slow and I kept waiting for the action to ramp up. It’s a mystery/heist book, but finally at 60% I realized the action was not going to be forthcoming. There were things happening, but it was all subdued and nothing about the story was compelling or held my interest and what was depicted on page was too basic with a lack of detail for the larger story trying to be told.
Mack’s father was also a thief and he’s been in prison for years. Mack also has a mentor, Rafe, that no one else likes, and has proven himself to be untrustworthy, yet Mack has a stubborn blind spot when it comes to this man. The group travels and executes heists, but how they were finding these jobs and what exactly they were doing with the items was all murky.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
2.5 stars
This is a difficult review to write since this book had a haphazard and thrown together feel to me. The basics are there, but the delivery and the structure of the story really did not work for me. The start had potential as Mack and Toshiro have a great dynamic. They are so in love with each other, never tire of each other, and after years still can’t keep their hands off of each other. This was a whole lot of fun until it just wasn’t anymore.
The book is slow and I kept waiting for the action to ramp up. It’s a mystery/heist book, but finally at 60% I realized the action was not going to be forthcoming. There were things happening, but it was all subdued and nothing about the story was compelling or held my interest and what was depicted on page was too basic with a lack of detail for the larger story trying to be told.
Mack’s father was also a thief and he’s been in prison for years. Mack also has a mentor, Rafe, that no one else likes, and has proven himself to be untrustworthy, yet Mack has a stubborn blind spot when it comes to this man. The group travels and executes heists, but how they were finding these jobs and what exactly they were doing with the items was all murky.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
May 26, 2018
This is one of the few times where I read the blurb at the beginning of the book. It had me thinking “Mission Impossible” – television series not the movies. No offense to Tom Cruise but I had a few man crushes back in the day. Or even “The Avengers” – again the series, loved Mrs. Peel and Mr. Steed.
Toshiro “Toshi” Ueda-Easton seems to like stating the obvious where his husband is concerned. Gregor “Mack” Ueda-Easton seems to be a modern day Robin Hood. I hadn’t even finished the first chapter and I was thoroughly enjoying the back and forth banter between these two. It was enough to even get a little chuckle out of it. There’s also the point in the story where Mack can’t seem to stop using the word “prat” and that just got me chuckling every time I heard the word. You have to read in order to see what I’m talking about. Mack introduces us to a gentleman and by the end of the scene I felt as if I was missing something. Toshi also introduces us to a young woman that’s special to him. The author impressed me in that this young woman has issues that a lot of people can relate to.
This is a story about two people. It goes beyond them being two men who are so in tune with each other and love each other very much. To add to my intrigue of this story, I read it as if it were a television series. The hardest part was finding the perfect stopping point. And that’s so true when I get to the ending and question whether or not it is an actual ending. Maybe my television series will continue.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Toshiro “Toshi” Ueda-Easton seems to like stating the obvious where his husband is concerned. Gregor “Mack” Ueda-Easton seems to be a modern day Robin Hood. I hadn’t even finished the first chapter and I was thoroughly enjoying the back and forth banter between these two. It was enough to even get a little chuckle out of it. There’s also the point in the story where Mack can’t seem to stop using the word “prat” and that just got me chuckling every time I heard the word. You have to read in order to see what I’m talking about. Mack introduces us to a gentleman and by the end of the scene I felt as if I was missing something. Toshi also introduces us to a young woman that’s special to him. The author impressed me in that this young woman has issues that a lot of people can relate to.
This is a story about two people. It goes beyond them being two men who are so in tune with each other and love each other very much. To add to my intrigue of this story, I read it as if it were a television series. The hardest part was finding the perfect stopping point. And that’s so true when I get to the ending and question whether or not it is an actual ending. Maybe my television series will continue.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
February 3, 2021
Read for a group challenge. It was alright. Felt like being dropped in the middle of a story, so took a while to get to grips with everyone. Felt like Robin Hood style thieves gearing up for a complicated retirement. The romance is already confirmed, the rings are already on fingers and all that’s left is facing betrayal. I think if there had been a prequel, I would’ve liked it more. Favourite character was the uncle, for standing by his family. Contains violence, thieves, betrayal and the slowest car chase ever.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2018
Mack and Toshiro are married thieves. Not bad guys. They prefer to think of themselves as Robin Hood’s. Stealing things from thieves to return to their proper owners. If along the way they keep a little for themselves that's as it should be.
The latest heist includes their merry band of family and friends. Mack is losing his sight, Toshiro’s sister is autistic, their friend Jude is in a wheel chair. Throw in a cop who kind of turns a blind eye to their escapades. A no good ex partner who might be out to get them, a father in prison and several others and the gangs all here.
When their lives are in jeopardy, they know they can trust their family and friends to have their backs. But does the bad guy know that?
This was a good one. Laughs, intrigue, sexy times. Plus Toshiro channels Hyacinth Bucket, what's not to like.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
The latest heist includes their merry band of family and friends. Mack is losing his sight, Toshiro’s sister is autistic, their friend Jude is in a wheel chair. Throw in a cop who kind of turns a blind eye to their escapades. A no good ex partner who might be out to get them, a father in prison and several others and the gangs all here.
When their lives are in jeopardy, they know they can trust their family and friends to have their backs. But does the bad guy know that?
This was a good one. Laughs, intrigue, sexy times. Plus Toshiro channels Hyacinth Bucket, what's not to like.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
May 26, 2018
One Last Heist has plenty going on all through the story. There’s intrigue and suspense peppered by Mack and Toshiro’s intimate encounters, and a cast of characters that are all quite unique in their own ways.
I loved the fact that Mack and Toshiro had been together for so long and were so dedicated to each other every step of the way. Their devotion to each other is obvious, their bond unbreakable—even when Mack is being a bit (or more than a bit) stubborn. Toshiro’s autistic sister Charlie brings a very logical mind to the table, picking up on things that others might not while her girlfriend Dominica is artistically talented in ways that are a huge asset to their little team. And their friend Jude brings a snarky, sarcastic attitude along with his technical skills.
As I said, there’s a lot going on in this story, and at times it felt like things went very quickly with not a lot of details—we were more told what happened after the fact than shown things as they happened. This made some parts of the story feel a bit jumpy to me, making the read not as smooth as I would have liked. This doesn’t mean it’s not a good story—far from it—but it’s my opinion that it could have benefitted from more detail and explanation than less since it felt like certain parts were skipped forward to get to other parts of the story.
One Last Heist has me wavering between 3.5 and 4 stars mostly due to the nature of the storytelling as I just detailed. I did love Mack and Toshiro together, they make a wonderful couple and played off each other quite well. Even with the sexy times scattered often throughout the book, the story really concentrates on the suspense of things, which did up the tension quite a few times. Overall it was an entertaining read, one that is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
I loved the fact that Mack and Toshiro had been together for so long and were so dedicated to each other every step of the way. Their devotion to each other is obvious, their bond unbreakable—even when Mack is being a bit (or more than a bit) stubborn. Toshiro’s autistic sister Charlie brings a very logical mind to the table, picking up on things that others might not while her girlfriend Dominica is artistically talented in ways that are a huge asset to their little team. And their friend Jude brings a snarky, sarcastic attitude along with his technical skills.
As I said, there’s a lot going on in this story, and at times it felt like things went very quickly with not a lot of details—we were more told what happened after the fact than shown things as they happened. This made some parts of the story feel a bit jumpy to me, making the read not as smooth as I would have liked. This doesn’t mean it’s not a good story—far from it—but it’s my opinion that it could have benefitted from more detail and explanation than less since it felt like certain parts were skipped forward to get to other parts of the story.
One Last Heist has me wavering between 3.5 and 4 stars mostly due to the nature of the storytelling as I just detailed. I did love Mack and Toshiro together, they make a wonderful couple and played off each other quite well. Even with the sexy times scattered often throughout the book, the story really concentrates on the suspense of things, which did up the tension quite a few times. Overall it was an entertaining read, one that is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
May 26, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It is a mixture of a bit of romance, a lot of suspense, slivers of angst, and tons of fun. The story is moving along at a very fast speed. It made me turn the pages effortlessly, but at the same time, I had some trouble following the story. There is a lot of things going on, lots of action, but not always fully explained. It didn’t diminish my pleasure of reading this book in the slightest, though.
It reminded me of Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men, and women in this case. Married couple, Mack and Toshiro, are gentleman thieves. Thieves with a conscience. Only stealing from the bad guys or re-stealing and returning objects to the appropriate owner. As Mack is slowly losing his eyesight, they decide to go for one last heist. What follows is a whirlwind of action and surprising events that had me sitting on the edge of my chair, fearing the worst.
They get help from a stellar secondary cast. Charlie, Toshiro’s autistic twin, who sees the world and people differently; Dominica, her girlfriend, a very talented artist and, if necessary, forger; Jude, wheelchair-bound and a wizard with computers.
Then there are Mack and Toshiro. Inspiring characters who are cute together and obviously are very much in love. Dealing with the impending blindness of Mack, they still have the capacity of laughing at the other and themselves. Often self-deprecating humor as the implications of his disease are becoming more and more evident. Still, the banter between them and, in fact, their group was a delight to read. Knowing them, I don’t think this will their final heist, though.
It reminded me of Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men, and women in this case. Married couple, Mack and Toshiro, are gentleman thieves. Thieves with a conscience. Only stealing from the bad guys or re-stealing and returning objects to the appropriate owner. As Mack is slowly losing his eyesight, they decide to go for one last heist. What follows is a whirlwind of action and surprising events that had me sitting on the edge of my chair, fearing the worst.
They get help from a stellar secondary cast. Charlie, Toshiro’s autistic twin, who sees the world and people differently; Dominica, her girlfriend, a very talented artist and, if necessary, forger; Jude, wheelchair-bound and a wizard with computers.
Then there are Mack and Toshiro. Inspiring characters who are cute together and obviously are very much in love. Dealing with the impending blindness of Mack, they still have the capacity of laughing at the other and themselves. Often self-deprecating humor as the implications of his disease are becoming more and more evident. Still, the banter between them and, in fact, their group was a delight to read. Knowing them, I don’t think this will their final heist, though.
May 26, 2018
I am always up for another book by Dahlia. I love her books. While this one wasn’t one of my favorites. It was still a great book. It is a M/M book so if that isn’t your thing be warned. Mack, his husband Tosh, Tosh’s twin, and her wife all do one last heist. It should be easy. But maybe it was just a little too easy if you know what I mean. They don’t just steal to steal. They steal things that were stolen from their rightful owner and anonymously return them. Mack whole world is about to get turned upside down. Heists always have a bit of danger to them but they are facing danger like never before. Mack is about to be faced with many things that will be hard to deal with. He will be forced to turn his back and people he thought cared about him and face some hard truths. I really enjoyed this book. The group is funny and caring. Mack and his husband are fantastic. They care about each other so much. Tosh is there for Mack so much during this trying time. He wants to help Mack with anything he can. I truly love this couple. I like the bits of danger and mystery involved with their heist. The uncover a big dangerous conspiracy. I recommend this book if you like a bit of mystery and some m/m and f/f love.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
May 26, 2018
I recieved a complimentary copy of One Last Heist for an honest review through the Crazy Cajun Book Addicts.
One Last Heist is a rather passionate read Toshi and Mack's love for each other really shines through, they have a lot of passion and wit in their partnership, even with Mack's deteriorating degenerative eye condition and blindness is inevitable Toshi is 100% supportive.
When they have an important heist to do the team pull together, but it goes horribly wrong and the duo are left fighting for their lives and justice, will they get to be together or will one be left without the other!
I enjoyed this book it started off a little slow but I think that's purely just to get a feel for Mack and Toshi's M/M relationship, the second half holds some action with the heist all in all its a decent read. The characters are all great and Dahlia did a wonderful job of showing that.
One Last Heist is a rather passionate read Toshi and Mack's love for each other really shines through, they have a lot of passion and wit in their partnership, even with Mack's deteriorating degenerative eye condition and blindness is inevitable Toshi is 100% supportive.
When they have an important heist to do the team pull together, but it goes horribly wrong and the duo are left fighting for their lives and justice, will they get to be together or will one be left without the other!
I enjoyed this book it started off a little slow but I think that's purely just to get a feel for Mack and Toshi's M/M relationship, the second half holds some action with the heist all in all its a decent read. The characters are all great and Dahlia did a wonderful job of showing that.
May 26, 2018
This is author is new to me and I love her fast-paced writing style. The book was a real page turner for me. Married couple, Mack and Toshiro are thieves with a conscience. Mack’s dad read him books about pirates and Robin Hood growing up so he fashioned his band of merry men and women like Robin Hood. You couldn’t put a better mismatched crew together than Mack and Toshiro do- their’s Toshiro’s autistic sister and her wife and Jude who was in a wheelchair from the last heist that got out of hand. One last thing to top it all off Mack is going blind from a genetic disease. They strategize and plan for one last heist, will they all come out standing and not be in jail when this is over? Who was a friend and who was a foe?
** I voluntarily read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review **
** I voluntarily read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review **
May 27, 2018
Dahlia Donovan is one of my favorite authors and she has done it again. One Last Heist is suspenseful, intriguing, and chock full of action and love. This story is more than the romance and emotion that I've come to expect and love from this author. The plot and suspense pull you in and will keep you wanting to turn page after page. Trust me when I say that you are going to want to pick up this 4.5 star read for yourself.
Mack and Toshiro are thieves, but there is a twist. What they didn't expect was to be dragged into a conspiracy. Are they going to be able to make it through? You have to read to find out. One-click this book today!
Mack and Toshiro are thieves, but there is a twist. What they didn't expect was to be dragged into a conspiracy. Are they going to be able to make it through? You have to read to find out. One-click this book today!
May 27, 2018
Mack and Toshiro light up the pages with their banter, chemistry and love! This book just has all the feels for me! A group of friends, dedicated lovers, good guys and bad guys and a mystery that will keep you engaged.
I just loved how creative, hot and steamy Mack and Toshiro were. This book also pulled at my heart as they dealt with some real world sadness and challenges. The writing was great and the characters were so beautifully drawn that you will be looking for them in your dreams. Just a terrific read!
I just loved how creative, hot and steamy Mack and Toshiro were. This book also pulled at my heart as they dealt with some real world sadness and challenges. The writing was great and the characters were so beautifully drawn that you will be looking for them in your dreams. Just a terrific read!
May 27, 2019
A very fun romp with a healthy dose of fear of being killed by the bad guys thrown in. Also with some pretty hot sex scenes -- nice bonus! Good story, well written, but somehow also this isn't a heavy read, despite the inclusion of brushes with death, kidnapping, a parent in prison, and a rival/former colleague trying to frame and/or kill the MCs and their family/gang. Fun but a little on the frivolous side.
May 27, 2018
I loved this book. The Banter between Tosh and Mack was hilarious. How everybody in the "family" had their own parts to make everything work. Even though they were theifs I felt myself rooting for them. And in the end how their lives were really connected. I want more of Tosh and Mack. I want to see how they deal with Mack's health. I know they would find a way around it.
June 11, 2018
An impressively amusing tale for the subject matter. Beautifully crafted while still managing to delve into the nuances of a long-term marriage where one half is going blind, the story is very difficult to put down. The characters are believable despite the narrative falling back on very British colloquiums more than a few times, painted with vivid strokes to render a rich backdrop of secondary characters. Depth is not hard to come by in this story, which I believe to be Donovan's best so far. The most ludicrous part of it is probably the love-making in various public places, adding to how hot the relationship felt, but also detracting from how believable the buffoonery and banter between the protagonists was.
*ARC received in exchange for candid review.
*ARC received in exchange for candid review.
May 29, 2018
As a first time M/M romance reader, I was impressed.
This heist doesn't go as planned. I won't give too much away because it's a ride that kept me flipping pages. Let's just say, you don't see the ending coming.
I adore the give and take of these characters. Tosh and Mack were made for each other in more ways than one. Their backstories are incredible and flow perfectly into the present day story. I also fell for Dom and Charlie. Those two are adorable, sass and all. Overall, these characters have depth and were well-written. Highly recommend. This was my first Dahlia Donovan novel and it certainly won't be the last.
This heist doesn't go as planned. I won't give too much away because it's a ride that kept me flipping pages. Let's just say, you don't see the ending coming.
I adore the give and take of these characters. Tosh and Mack were made for each other in more ways than one. Their backstories are incredible and flow perfectly into the present day story. I also fell for Dom and Charlie. Those two are adorable, sass and all. Overall, these characters have depth and were well-written. Highly recommend. This was my first Dahlia Donovan novel and it certainly won't be the last.
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January 1, 2019
Dude. This was one of the funniest books I have ever read. I think this is the first I've read of this author. Honestly, I can't be 100% because I read so much lol. Yikes. But this book was so good. The relationship and chemistry between the two MCs is just the best. Even with being married. It’s funny, snarky yet loving, and definitely off the charts hot. I laughed so hard every time Toshiro would snark or comment at Mack in another language. Oh man, it's so funny. It's so good, too, because it's a mystery. A good whodunnit and why? Betrayals, murder, and so much more, while working heists and not getting caught.
This book just started off with a bang and kept going. It's such a page turner. Mark and Toshiro are doing a dry of a heist in their loft. But little by little it's starting to be painfully obvious how hard it's getting to be for Mark. Losing his night vision is making him almost blind at night time. He has trouble during the day, sometimes, but not as bad. It's the nighttime that's hard. Mark is putting it off and off as far as doctors. Avoidance and denial means it will go away right? Toshiro is worried about his husband, but will stand with him through anything. He'd rather have him with losing sight then nothing at all. These two have been in love since they were kids and being without the other is not even an option. And that gets tested.
They go to do the heist and find out they are caught in the middle of something very dangerous. And the farther they dig into all the facts, research, etc., the more they are finding out that things weren't as they seem. As least for Mark. He's been severely betrayed and there's no coming back from it. If they are careful, they may not even make it out alive.
All the characters in this book are just the best. Except for the asshole. He's written well but...he's an asshole. Of the lowest kind. I love a good mystery and this was just great. Mark and Toshiro keep you on your toes but they have some trusty 'sidekicks�� that are right there with them. Toshiro’s sister, Charlie and her partner, Dominica, take no prisoners lol. These two are merciless with Mark and Toshiro. But it's such an awesome dynamic. And the diverseness of the characters. (Is that a word?) Well it is now lol.) Dom is African-American. Charlie is Japanese-American and autistic. Toshiro and Mark are their own blend of races. They 'adopted’ a trans boy. They have another friend who is family that's in a wheelchair. And I love every bit of it. Diversity like that keeps me intrigued as well. To see which direction it will go.
The mystery part of this book….exceptional. There was always something going on. Something to be solved, something to get ready for, a heist to do, a surface to have sex on, (LMAO! yes you read that right)whatever. It's always busy. Even when you know who the bad guy is, you still have to figure why or how bad he really is and how far his reach goes. It's so great.
I will be reading more from this author if this is the quality of book that is written. I absolutely loved it. I think you guys will too.
http://lovebytesreviews.com
This book just started off with a bang and kept going. It's such a page turner. Mark and Toshiro are doing a dry of a heist in their loft. But little by little it's starting to be painfully obvious how hard it's getting to be for Mark. Losing his night vision is making him almost blind at night time. He has trouble during the day, sometimes, but not as bad. It's the nighttime that's hard. Mark is putting it off and off as far as doctors. Avoidance and denial means it will go away right? Toshiro is worried about his husband, but will stand with him through anything. He'd rather have him with losing sight then nothing at all. These two have been in love since they were kids and being without the other is not even an option. And that gets tested.
They go to do the heist and find out they are caught in the middle of something very dangerous. And the farther they dig into all the facts, research, etc., the more they are finding out that things weren't as they seem. As least for Mark. He's been severely betrayed and there's no coming back from it. If they are careful, they may not even make it out alive.
All the characters in this book are just the best. Except for the asshole. He's written well but...he's an asshole. Of the lowest kind. I love a good mystery and this was just great. Mark and Toshiro keep you on your toes but they have some trusty 'sidekicks�� that are right there with them. Toshiro’s sister, Charlie and her partner, Dominica, take no prisoners lol. These two are merciless with Mark and Toshiro. But it's such an awesome dynamic. And the diverseness of the characters. (Is that a word?) Well it is now lol.) Dom is African-American. Charlie is Japanese-American and autistic. Toshiro and Mark are their own blend of races. They 'adopted’ a trans boy. They have another friend who is family that's in a wheelchair. And I love every bit of it. Diversity like that keeps me intrigued as well. To see which direction it will go.
The mystery part of this book….exceptional. There was always something going on. Something to be solved, something to get ready for, a heist to do, a surface to have sex on, (LMAO! yes you read that right)whatever. It's always busy. Even when you know who the bad guy is, you still have to figure why or how bad he really is and how far his reach goes. It's so great.
I will be reading more from this author if this is the quality of book that is written. I absolutely loved it. I think you guys will too.
http://lovebytesreviews.com
June 3, 2018
This review is very tricky to write. There are a tremendous amount of interesting pieces and parts to this story that were wonderful, but the way they pieced together overall just didn’t work for me.
Gregor ‘Mack’ Ueda-Easton and Toshiro Ueda-Easton are a happily married, long-term couple (as in elementary school long-term) who have really nifty front jobs. Mack is a philanthropist and Toshiro is a traveling writer, while secretly they are running a Robin Hood-esque business behind the scenes with Toshiro’s twin sister Charlie and the love of her life, Dominica. They happily steal priceless things from the not-so-rightful-owner and deliver them to where they should be, while keeping some extra loot for themselves and using discreet fencing to transfer said baubles to cash. These four characters play from start to finish as a team even though the story focuses on Mack and Toshiro, and each of them is a delight on their own.
The premise of the story is amazing. Mack’s sight is spiraling down due to a genetic disease, so if the team wants to complete One Last Heist, it needs to be done now, before it’s too late for Mack. They have the perfect heist plans underway and now just need to finish practicing and go do it.
Unfortunately, there was much more ‘wait’ than there was action. The pace of the story was herky-jerky as a result, and overall it was just too muted for me. I had a hard time staying interested in the story despite the interesting cast of characters because of this.
There is too much ambiguity on aspects involving information-sharing to learn about these various jobs and so how they were selected for me to piece it together in any satisfying way. There is also a marked enmity toward one of the secondary characters (Rafe) due to damages caused to another secondary character (Jude) in a past job, and while there is repeated mention of it, there is no real background information. It made me feel like I was missing a previous book that could have explained how this team worked together in the past, what happened between these two specific characters to cause this divide, and why Mack would still rely on Rafe as a mentor and information source after whatever treachery Rafe committed that left Jude wheelchair-bound.
On another front, the passion that Mack and Toshiro have for one another is undeniably strong, even after many years together, and the easy camaraderie and support of and for each other is lovely. The way they go about showing Charlie support, allowing her to function so brilliantly through the parameters dictated to her by her autism, is also quite beautiful.
My dilemmas regarding this book made me really need to stop and ponder before writing my review. I also went hunting to see if I perhaps had missed a first book, but found nothing. This author is one of my favorites, so it almost felt like a betrayal to criticize this book. However, I simply don’t write what I don’t feel, so I’m being honest with myself and with anyone who reads this review. I’m rating this book at 2.5 stars. Perhaps one day there will be a prequel to this, and I could potentially re-review this one. In the interim, remember that your mileage may vary, so if you want to give it a try, go for it.
I voluntarily read an ARC copy of this book for Divine Magazine from the author, Dahlia Donovan, with hopes for but no obligation to provide a review.
**Same worded review will appear on Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com.**
May 28, 2018
This was intriguing, fascinating and alluring. Mack and Toshi have a relationship that just is great. They are perfect for one another. Very supportive and loving to one another. Mack is losing his sight and is scared and Toshi is trying to get him to open up and go to the doctor. It isn’t until they are neck deep in danger that they have a honest talk about Mack’s condition.
The heist was supposed to be simple. But it turns into anything but as so many secrets and betrayals occur. We see greed at its finest but we also see family shine and so does loyalty. As Toshi is trying to get Mack to face his condition he is also trying to get him to face reality about his mentor and keep them all from the danger that they seem to be falling into without even trying due to a heist that becomes more. A heist that puts them all in danger and has them fighting to survive and prove the innocence of a good guy while finding out the truth behind what going on and who is behind it. We also see Mack have his world turned around when truths are revealed and he feels betrayed and hurt. I love how Toshi is there for him no matter what and so are his friends. How when it comes to him and Toshi and the fear of losing one another we truly see their feelings come forth and how they fight for each other and that they are each other’s other half and can’t live without the other. We see Mack fight for what is right and learn about himself and what is family and honor. He finds out who is loyal and who is truly only after greed.
A wonderfully written alluring book filled with danger, love and mystery that keeps you in the moment and wanting more.
The heist was supposed to be simple. But it turns into anything but as so many secrets and betrayals occur. We see greed at its finest but we also see family shine and so does loyalty. As Toshi is trying to get Mack to face his condition he is also trying to get him to face reality about his mentor and keep them all from the danger that they seem to be falling into without even trying due to a heist that becomes more. A heist that puts them all in danger and has them fighting to survive and prove the innocence of a good guy while finding out the truth behind what going on and who is behind it. We also see Mack have his world turned around when truths are revealed and he feels betrayed and hurt. I love how Toshi is there for him no matter what and so are his friends. How when it comes to him and Toshi and the fear of losing one another we truly see their feelings come forth and how they fight for each other and that they are each other’s other half and can’t live without the other. We see Mack fight for what is right and learn about himself and what is family and honor. He finds out who is loyal and who is truly only after greed.
A wonderfully written alluring book filled with danger, love and mystery that keeps you in the moment and wanting more.
May 29, 2018
One Last Heist has a host of new characters, and our main couple are already married, which made for a lovely change. They both have jobs by day, but are thieves by night. Mack has a list of rules that he works to, helping to ensure he only robs from those who deserve it. And yes, there are plenty of Robin Hood references guaranteed to make you smile. They get caught up in a situation that quickly takes them from their 'normal' into something far more dangerous that could change their lives forever.
I loved how this story played out. Mack and Toshi are brilliant both together and separately. Charlie, Tosh's sister, is autistic and her coping mechanisms are captured perfectly, along with an explanation of the why's and how's. In fact, I have to say that I thought all of the characters were more than capable of standing on their own two feet. They worked great as a team, with their own individual strengths helping each other, but none were so weak they could ONLY be part of the team.
With plenty of twists and turns, only some of which I saw coming, or partially at least, this story kept my interest from start to finish. Absolutely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
I loved how this story played out. Mack and Toshi are brilliant both together and separately. Charlie, Tosh's sister, is autistic and her coping mechanisms are captured perfectly, along with an explanation of the why's and how's. In fact, I have to say that I thought all of the characters were more than capable of standing on their own two feet. They worked great as a team, with their own individual strengths helping each other, but none were so weak they could ONLY be part of the team.
With plenty of twists and turns, only some of which I saw coming, or partially at least, this story kept my interest from start to finish. Absolutely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 27, 2018
Well, this was certainly action packed. There was lots going on and it wasn't clear who could be trusted, adding to the tension of this read.
As M/M reads go, Dahlia Donovan is one of my go to authors. I did enjoy this but not as much as others she has written. It felt like it was trying too hard, with its very diverse set of characters and its non stop, action packed plot. The was jam packed, which I didn't feel gave me or the characters chance to deal with events and the undercurrent issues.
That being said, it had all the wit and humour that are trade mark Dahlia Donovan that had me cracking up throughout. The characters sparked off each other to create strong dynamics amongst the group. The fact that they were criminals (albeit Robin Hood ones) added something different to the story and gave it something interesting. I did enjoy this but found myself wanting more...
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
As M/M reads go, Dahlia Donovan is one of my go to authors. I did enjoy this but not as much as others she has written. It felt like it was trying too hard, with its very diverse set of characters and its non stop, action packed plot. The was jam packed, which I didn't feel gave me or the characters chance to deal with events and the undercurrent issues.
That being said, it had all the wit and humour that are trade mark Dahlia Donovan that had me cracking up throughout. The characters sparked off each other to create strong dynamics amongst the group. The fact that they were criminals (albeit Robin Hood ones) added something different to the story and gave it something interesting. I did enjoy this but found myself wanting more...
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
June 20, 2018
One Last Heist is an entertaining read that for me, is loosely reminiscent of the TV show, Leverage. We have a group of thieves that rob from the robbers, getting stolen items back where they belong while taking a bit for themselves along the way. The romance here is an established one, so we don't get all the angst associated with new love. What we do get are two terrific characters who have known each other for most of their lives and are utterly devoted to each other. That devotion also comes with some witty banter and steamy goodness. This one also comes with some intrigue as this merry band of thieves stumbles into a conspiracy and betrayal that leads them down a dangerous road. It's a slow build on the action, but the writing style and storyline keep the pages turning. As I've come to expect from this author, the characters are rich and colorful and the story pulls the reader in to the lives of those characters. All in all, another engaging tale from Dalia Donovan.
July 15, 2018
This story just seemed to grab me right from the start. I don't know if it was the unique combination of bad guys/good guys, the wide variety of issues our main characters were dealing with (encroaching blindness, autism, other physical limitations, loss, estrangement, betrayal, etc.), or the cohesiveness of the main group in facing major challenges that drew me in the most. I definitely liked all the MCs, as well as the way they know each other and have learned how to live and communicate with each other. And I have to say, the cover of the book definitely didn't hurt. Wow, that is one attractive cover! I think this just might be one that I have to reread somwhere down the road.
August 30, 2020
3.5*
I did enjoy this, I liked the lightly snarky/bantering relationship that Mack And Toshi have, as befitting guys that have been together a long time.
The plot is a bit confusing at the start because there is obviously a lot of history to their merry band, but this is a standalone (well, I looked a couple of times and didn’t find any others) so at times it felt like I was dumped in the middle of something.
Definitely felt it should be in a series and I would read about them again.
However, the finding of Mr Nasty and the traps laid out were entertaining- though for clever people, they all fell into the traps.
I did enjoy this, I liked the lightly snarky/bantering relationship that Mack And Toshi have, as befitting guys that have been together a long time.
The plot is a bit confusing at the start because there is obviously a lot of history to their merry band, but this is a standalone (well, I looked a couple of times and didn’t find any others) so at times it felt like I was dumped in the middle of something.
Definitely felt it should be in a series and I would read about them again.
However, the finding of Mr Nasty and the traps laid out were entertaining- though for clever people, they all fell into the traps.
December 24, 2019
3.5 stars Different but entertaining
I was kind of torn over my rating because I had a hard time figuring this out. It often felt like I should have read another book first, as past events were discussed and referenced in current activities without complete context. There were also distracting scenes and events that had no relevance or purpose in moving the plot forward. Eventually things mostly came together. Toshi and Mack/Gregor were good characters and an established couple, not a traditional romance but decent suspense.
I was kind of torn over my rating because I had a hard time figuring this out. It often felt like I should have read another book first, as past events were discussed and referenced in current activities without complete context. There were also distracting scenes and events that had no relevance or purpose in moving the plot forward. Eventually things mostly came together. Toshi and Mack/Gregor were good characters and an established couple, not a traditional romance but decent suspense.
December 15, 2018
As new reader to Ms. Donovan, I thought this book was a great read. She kept my interest throughout the book with the engaging characters of Gregor ‘Mack’ Ueda-Easton and Toshiro Ueda-Easton and their group of friends. Lots of action, suspenseful, mystery and bits of romance follow these modern day thieves into what will be their one last heist. Thoroughly enjoyed this book and looking forward to reading more by Ms. Donovan.
March 14, 2021
Pleasantly surprised. I liked the story line, and the characters.
A little rough, but enjoyable.
Honestly I was expecting it to be a cookie cutter story, but it wasn't.
I like the ideas, and I'll be checking out the author again.
A little rough, but enjoyable.
Honestly I was expecting it to be a cookie cutter story, but it wasn't.
I like the ideas, and I'll be checking out the author again.
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