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Deviant Hearts #1
Captive Hearts
Bodyguard. Protector. Lover.
Dashiell acts first and thinks second when he uses his fists to stop a vicious assault. The victim’s young, blond and beautiful — and the bratty kept boy of a gangland thug. Dashiell’s not offered thanks. Instead, he’s offered a job as the boy's bodyguard. Out of work and short of cash, it’s tempting to say yes. But there are strings attached, and Dashiell’s not sure he wants to get entangled.
Billy knows his place. He’s the property of a violent criminal, and just one wrong word means a beating, or worse. He yearns for a man who will love and protect him, keep him safe, and catch him when he falls. Dashiell could be that man — but only if Billy has the courage to follow his heart.
Their love is forbidden, and danger stalks their every move. Escape is the only option but as the walls close in, is time running out for Dashiell and Billy?
Captive Hearts is the first in the Deviant Hearts MM Romantic Suspense series. Expect a hard fought for HEA. No cliff hangers.
Note: this book was previously published under the name of A E Ryecart. The cover and description may (or may not) have changed, but the book title and contents remain the same as before.
Dashiell acts first and thinks second when he uses his fists to stop a vicious assault. The victim’s young, blond and beautiful — and the bratty kept boy of a gangland thug. Dashiell’s not offered thanks. Instead, he’s offered a job as the boy's bodyguard. Out of work and short of cash, it’s tempting to say yes. But there are strings attached, and Dashiell’s not sure he wants to get entangled.
Billy knows his place. He’s the property of a violent criminal, and just one wrong word means a beating, or worse. He yearns for a man who will love and protect him, keep him safe, and catch him when he falls. Dashiell could be that man — but only if Billy has the courage to follow his heart.
Their love is forbidden, and danger stalks their every move. Escape is the only option but as the walls close in, is time running out for Dashiell and Billy?
Captive Hearts is the first in the Deviant Hearts MM Romantic Suspense series. Expect a hard fought for HEA. No cliff hangers.
Note: this book was previously published under the name of A E Ryecart. The cover and description may (or may not) have changed, but the book title and contents remain the same as before.
210 pages, ebook
First published February 23, 2018
87 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
About the author
A.E. Ryecart
22 books112 followersA born and bred Londoner, she may have moved to someplace more leafy but the city is still very much part of her DNA, which is why her books are set in and around present-day London, providing a thrilling, metropolitan backdrop to the main action.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
November 8, 2019
Audio – 3.75 Stars. The narrator’s performance was solid, but it took some effort on my part to understand what the narrator was saying as he had a pretty thick accent.
Story – 1 Star
The short of it is that the story was all angst. Except for the epilogue, Billy is physically and sexually abused pretty much the entire story. Even when he and Dashiell start sneaking around to be together, Billy still has to go back to his keeper, Frankie, and be abused.
Not my kind of hurt/comfort romance. The hurt trumped the comfort which made this a very depressing story.
Story – 1 Star
The short of it is that the story was all angst. Except for the epilogue, Billy is physically and sexually abused pretty much the entire story. Even when he and Dashiell start sneaking around to be together, Billy still has to go back to his keeper, Frankie, and be abused.
Not my kind of hurt/comfort romance. The hurt trumped the comfort which made this a very depressing story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2018
This is the first book I've read from this author and I enjoyed a lot of it including the British setting and the main characters.
It was perhaps a little bit dramatic at times but it did fit within the narrative and I liked the whole London crime boss element of the plot which was used to anchor the story.
Both Billy and Dashiell were sympathetic characters and I liked their pairing, it wasn't just a circumstances dictating attraction, it felt believable. I also liked the secondary character development, hideous bad guys as well as the good ones.
However, for me, the actual tension of the plot being mostly due to the circumstances they were in didn't always work and it felt a bit overly dramatic on occasion with Frankie's character coming across a bit too obviously cliche bad guy at times.
The ending also seemed to wrap every thing up a bit fast too but the epilogue made up for it and I'm hoping Lee is going to get himself a book too in this series.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
It was perhaps a little bit dramatic at times but it did fit within the narrative and I liked the whole London crime boss element of the plot which was used to anchor the story.
Both Billy and Dashiell were sympathetic characters and I liked their pairing, it wasn't just a circumstances dictating attraction, it felt believable. I also liked the secondary character development, hideous bad guys as well as the good ones.
However, for me, the actual tension of the plot being mostly due to the circumstances they were in didn't always work and it felt a bit overly dramatic on occasion with Frankie's character coming across a bit too obviously cliche bad guy at times.
The ending also seemed to wrap every thing up a bit fast too but the epilogue made up for it and I'm hoping Lee is going to get himself a book too in this series.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
March 22, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Captive Hearts is the first book I have read by A.E. Ryecart and I am extremely impressed by her writing and ability to capture the emotions of her characters. In Captive Hearts, Ryecart conveys the angst and range of feelings that Dashiell and Billy experience by using first-person narration. Billy and Dashiell have alternate chapters, which are respectively titled to guide the reader. Ryecart places the reader in the fortunate position of seeing behind the masks both of these characters wear and it is this insight that compels us to hope that these two men may have a future together.
Until Dashiell, Billy played the roles of obedient “toy” around Frankie and spoilt diva when driven around by the “zombies.” In return for unexpected kindness and friendship, Dashiell sees beyond Billy’s facade and so do we. Billy is not only extremely vulnerable, but there is also no doubt in my mind that he is actually one of the most emotionally and mentally strong characters I have ever come across in fiction. It would be easy to presume that Billy stays with Frankie for the nice house and open-ended credit card he has access to, but actually Billy suffers the horrendous physical abuse, pressure to starve himself, and emotional manipulation for the sake of his Gran. For me, this brings a real sense of humanity to Captive Hearts. Billy is captured in an impossible situation because of his love for his Gran who has dementia and requires specialized private care that Frankie can afford.
Read Kirsty’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Captive Hearts is the first book I have read by A.E. Ryecart and I am extremely impressed by her writing and ability to capture the emotions of her characters. In Captive Hearts, Ryecart conveys the angst and range of feelings that Dashiell and Billy experience by using first-person narration. Billy and Dashiell have alternate chapters, which are respectively titled to guide the reader. Ryecart places the reader in the fortunate position of seeing behind the masks both of these characters wear and it is this insight that compels us to hope that these two men may have a future together.
Until Dashiell, Billy played the roles of obedient “toy” around Frankie and spoilt diva when driven around by the “zombies.” In return for unexpected kindness and friendship, Dashiell sees beyond Billy’s facade and so do we. Billy is not only extremely vulnerable, but there is also no doubt in my mind that he is actually one of the most emotionally and mentally strong characters I have ever come across in fiction. It would be easy to presume that Billy stays with Frankie for the nice house and open-ended credit card he has access to, but actually Billy suffers the horrendous physical abuse, pressure to starve himself, and emotional manipulation for the sake of his Gran. For me, this brings a real sense of humanity to Captive Hearts. Billy is captured in an impossible situation because of his love for his Gran who has dementia and requires specialized private care that Frankie can afford.
Read Kirsty’s review in its entirety here.
May 21, 2019
Soooo... it's been a while since we've had to have a talk about consent. Gather round and we can have this talk, hopefully for the last time.
Convincing someone to have sex with you isn't cool. It's not something you do to someone you claim to love. Pressuring someone to continue a relationship is, again, not okay. It's not romantic, it's not sweet, it's not sexy.
While I understand this book falls on the darker side of romance and I certainly provided allowances for that, I think the relationship between our heroes should have been entirely consensual and it simply wasn't.
There is nothing sexy or romantic about regrets after the fact. It's not a sign of love or respect, although it was depicted as such - I'm so attracted to him I couldn't say no, even though I really wanted to...
Anyway...
The first 79% was wonderful and totally deserved 5 stars.
The last 20% went way downhill. Firstly, there were some strange proofreading issues. The tone completely changed and if felt like a different person had written the book. Normally I would let that slide but consent went out the window as well and as far as I'm concerned that's unforgivable.
Convincing someone to have sex with you isn't cool. It's not something you do to someone you claim to love. Pressuring someone to continue a relationship is, again, not okay. It's not romantic, it's not sweet, it's not sexy.
While I understand this book falls on the darker side of romance and I certainly provided allowances for that, I think the relationship between our heroes should have been entirely consensual and it simply wasn't.
There is nothing sexy or romantic about regrets after the fact. It's not a sign of love or respect, although it was depicted as such - I'm so attracted to him I couldn't say no, even though I really wanted to...
Anyway...
The first 79% was wonderful and totally deserved 5 stars.
The last 20% went way downhill. Firstly, there were some strange proofreading issues. The tone completely changed and if felt like a different person had written the book. Normally I would let that slide but consent went out the window as well and as far as I'm concerned that's unforgivable.
February 21, 2018
* 4,5 stars*
This is not an easy book to read. There are so many things broke my heart, especially when it comes to what's Billy suffered for Frankie. Dashiell came didn't soon enough IMO. But somehow, they made it work. I never though that at some point, I didn't mind that when he's still in Frankie's dirty hands. I thought, on Frankie is a mandatory, you know. Billy's just needed that, he needed Dashiell. Dashiell is his happy place, someone he can lean on to. A love he found in the middle of his battered heart and boy (literally).
It hurt me every time Billy had to come to Frankie and just surrendered, I hated that.
But this story consumed me, and lately, it's a rare thing with some books I read this year.
I'm captivated by Captive Hearts, by Billy and Dashiell.
This was a wonderful read, though my hart was broken and made me cry over what Billy had been through. I'm glad Dashiell was there to protect him. I'm finally close this book with a happy sigh.
This is book one of the series, I think Lee would be in book two. And I'll make sure I'll read the second book.
Recommended!
..."On a stony beach, where a sleeping Billy Grace snuggled into me, I knew I’d always remember that day because it was the day my life changed.
This is not an easy book to read. There are so many things broke my heart, especially when it comes to what's Billy suffered for Frankie. Dashiell came didn't soon enough IMO. But somehow, they made it work. I never though that at some point, I didn't mind that when he's still in Frankie's dirty hands. I thought, on Frankie is a mandatory, you know. Billy's just needed that, he needed Dashiell. Dashiell is his happy place, someone he can lean on to. A love he found in the middle of his battered heart and boy (literally).
... "I didn’t know when I’d fallen in love with Dashiell, I just had. I used to dream about falling in love and imagined the big, public declarations, fireworks exploding, and shooting stars racing across the sky. I’d even thought there’d be unicorns jumping over rainbows. What I’d never imagined was that I’d just know, kind of all quietly and without any fanfare."
It hurt me every time Billy had to come to Frankie and just surrendered, I hated that.
But this story consumed me, and lately, it's a rare thing with some books I read this year.
I'm captivated by Captive Hearts, by Billy and Dashiell.
..."His voice was quiet, and shaking, and he looked up at me with the saddest eyes I'd ever seen. But he didn't flinch. He was summoning all the strength and bravery he had, even though it was breaking both our hearts. I gave him the only answer I could. I kissed him."
This was a wonderful read, though my hart was broken and made me cry over what Billy had been through. I'm glad Dashiell was there to protect him. I'm finally close this book with a happy sigh.
This is book one of the series, I think Lee would be in book two. And I'll make sure I'll read the second book.
Recommended!
February 17, 2018
This book quickly drew my attention and kept me glued to the pages. The story had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what was going to happen next. I think the author did such a great job of setting the scene, I could sense the emotions of the characters rolling off the pages. This is this first book by this author I have read and it won’t be the last.
I received a copy of this book, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
I received a copy of this book, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
October 19, 2020
4.5
Quante tipologie di prigioni ci possono essere? Billy ce lo mostra chiaramente e si prenderà un pezzettino di cuore ❤️
Quante tipologie di prigioni ci possono essere? Billy ce lo mostra chiaramente e si prenderà un pezzettino di cuore ❤️
February 23, 2018
Bypasses all the action, ending is anti-climactic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2019
For the most part, I did enjoy this.
I did find that it was a bit too dragged out, though. By the end, my interest was seriously waning. And I did find the ending very anti-climatic.
Also, the narrative did bother me some. For starters, I'm not a huge fan of 1st POV, but don't mind when it's a strong, gripping POV... which I wouldn't necessarily say this way. And it's alternative between Dashiell and Billy, and I'm not fond of alternating POVs. But the thing that really bothered me was that every now and then, there would be an aside to the readers, and I found it a bit jarring and that it drew you out of the story. Just little lines like, "so you see" etc.
I don't think I'll continue with the series. Lee didn't really interest me as a character, so I don't really feel compelled to continue reading.
I did find that it was a bit too dragged out, though. By the end, my interest was seriously waning. And I did find the ending very anti-climatic.
Also, the narrative did bother me some. For starters, I'm not a huge fan of 1st POV, but don't mind when it's a strong, gripping POV... which I wouldn't necessarily say this way. And it's alternative between Dashiell and Billy, and I'm not fond of alternating POVs. But the thing that really bothered me was that every now and then, there would be an aside to the readers, and I found it a bit jarring and that it drew you out of the story. Just little lines like, "so you see" etc.
I don't think I'll continue with the series. Lee didn't really interest me as a character, so I don't really feel compelled to continue reading.
November 2, 2019
I was into it for a while and I enjoyed the narration but the end was so anticlimactic and blah
Want to read
March 12, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/12/2020)! 🎁
July 18, 2018
This was one of those books where I spent most of it feeling uneasy. Not because of the MCs – they where amazing – but they were in an impossible situation. With every moment they spent together I was just waiting for shit to happen.
It’s not a feeling I generally enjoy, but it does make the ending that much sweeter. And I will definitely be going for the next book in the series.
It’s not a feeling I generally enjoy, but it does make the ending that much sweeter. And I will definitely be going for the next book in the series.
October 31, 2020
I'm always leary when I read something from a new-to-me author. Will I like it, will there be a good story-line and well fleshed out characters, will it be believable? I'm pleased to say that this time I was pleased with the choice. While I felt a lot of sympathy for Billy, it was tempered by the knowledge that he went into his relationship with the "thug" with open eyes and he felt his sacrifice was worth it. Dashiell was a little harder to connect with. For me, he was only just this side of not being such a good guy. Some of his actions seemed a little, well, stupid and selfish, and he put Billy in some very risky situations. But for the most part, his heart seemed to be in the right place and their love felt real.
I also wonder if I would have been as happy reading the story as I was listening to it. Dan Calley is not a new-to-me narrator and was part of the reason that I chose this book. I enjoy his skill as a narrator and his deep accented (to me) voice is very appealing to me. I think I was better able to feel the emotions with his narration than I would have if I had read the book.
I also wonder if I would have been as happy reading the story as I was listening to it. Dan Calley is not a new-to-me narrator and was part of the reason that I chose this book. I enjoy his skill as a narrator and his deep accented (to me) voice is very appealing to me. I think I was better able to feel the emotions with his narration than I would have if I had read the book.
July 26, 2020
3.5 stars
This was a good, dark romance with an age gap.
At 23, Billy was a kept man—a possession—by a ruthless, criminal thug in his 50s. Billy was physically, emotionally, and sexually abused (sexual abuse did not occur on page), but leaving wasn’t as easy as one would expect. Because Billy has his reasons for staying. Reasons Dashiell doesn’t know about.
When Dashiell accepts a job for some seemingly easy cash, he doesn’t realize what he’s gotten himself into. And when he does, he’s not leaving without Billy.
This was suspenseful, dark, gritty, and pulled at my heartstrings. I adored Billy. I wanted to cuddle and protect him. Dashiell...I didn’t like. I didn’t get the “feels” from him and he constantly took reckless chances that put Billy at risk.
Good dark romance with a HEA.
This was a good, dark romance with an age gap.
At 23, Billy was a kept man—a possession—by a ruthless, criminal thug in his 50s. Billy was physically, emotionally, and sexually abused (sexual abuse did not occur on page), but leaving wasn’t as easy as one would expect. Because Billy has his reasons for staying. Reasons Dashiell doesn’t know about.
When Dashiell accepts a job for some seemingly easy cash, he doesn’t realize what he’s gotten himself into. And when he does, he’s not leaving without Billy.
This was suspenseful, dark, gritty, and pulled at my heartstrings. I adored Billy. I wanted to cuddle and protect him. Dashiell...I didn’t like. I didn’t get the “feels” from him and he constantly took reckless chances that put Billy at risk.
Good dark romance with a HEA.
August 30, 2019
I read this as fast as I possibly could. I fell in love with Dashiell in an instant, and I deny anyone to not feel protective and gut-wrenching sympathy for Billy. Two well drawn characters coming together against the odds. As a Brit living in London, the city here shone through and the slang made this book. The way Dashiell spoke was spot on. Apparently there's an audio book in the pipeline and I can't wait to hear him speak to me!
Great stuff, onto the next....
Great stuff, onto the next....
March 23, 2018
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Review:
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
It took me a little bit but once this story got going I didn’t want to put it down. Billy has pretty much been living in hell the last two years. Dashiell gives him the opportunity to hope for more while Dashiell’s heart breaks every time he has to bring him back home.
I felt for Billy and the predicament he ended up in, wanting to keep the care for his grandma going while he is essentially being beaten and raped for that. While Billy has become a little jaded he still seemed quite innocent on how the world works.
I loved Dashiell’s determination to get Billy out of the situation he was in and for them to make a life together. These two had chemistry from the beginning and did pretty well with keeping it toned down but the more time they seemed to spend together the more trouble they had doing that. I loved to see that they were able to build a life outside of all that happened and continue on, I just wish we would have known if Dashiell were able to keep in touch with his existing friends as at least Andy seemed important to him. I look forward to reading more in this series.
I like the cover art love the picture of Dashiell.
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
It took me a little bit but once this story got going I didn’t want to put it down. Billy has pretty much been living in hell the last two years. Dashiell gives him the opportunity to hope for more while Dashiell’s heart breaks every time he has to bring him back home.
I felt for Billy and the predicament he ended up in, wanting to keep the care for his grandma going while he is essentially being beaten and raped for that. While Billy has become a little jaded he still seemed quite innocent on how the world works.
I loved Dashiell’s determination to get Billy out of the situation he was in and for them to make a life together. These two had chemistry from the beginning and did pretty well with keeping it toned down but the more time they seemed to spend together the more trouble they had doing that. I loved to see that they were able to build a life outside of all that happened and continue on, I just wish we would have known if Dashiell were able to keep in touch with his existing friends as at least Andy seemed important to him. I look forward to reading more in this series.
I like the cover art love the picture of Dashiell.
February 14, 2019
Loved it. Well written, strong characters, great storyline. What more could you want?
November 23, 2019
3.5 stars
January 8, 2020
Ex-military good guy Dashiell meets and falls for mob boss's abused boyfriend, Billy... it's a dark tale with several layers, and I found myself very invested in this hurt/comfort/rescue trope. You will root for Billy and hope that his abusive boyfriend, Frankie, will get his comeuppance. The heat level between Dashiell and Billy progresses from sweet to off the charts! I enjoyed it a lot and will continue with the series.
February 26, 2018
Loved the whole crime boss/thug thing going on in the book. It started off strong with me really digging Dashiell and Billy, how they met and their situation, but then it got rather predictable. I determined early on what was what. The end, for me, was anticlimactic. You knew what was going to happen with Dashiell and Billy way before the book ended. Lovely writing though and nicely atmospheric with descriptions of England. But much too predictable to rate above a 3.
March 10, 2019
⭐️ 3.5 stars ⭐️
October 19, 2020
4.5
Se non ci fa soffrire prima del lieto fine, questa donna non è contenta.
Se non ci fa soffrire prima del lieto fine, questa donna non è contenta.
February 25, 2018
Sometimes tragedy is just tragedy, other times, precious rare times, tragedy turns into salvation. With no hope of being saved himself, Billy is willing to surrender his body and mind to evil incarnate for the ability to care for the woman who loved him, raised him. And then Dashiell appeared. Coming face to face with someone he wants but seeing no way to have him he realizes just how well and truly trapped he is. It'll take everything Dashiell has in him to believe they'll both escape together.
Billy is in an incredibly difficult situation. The beatings his body, self-esteem, mind, and heart have taken over the last couple years were his price to pay to give his grandmother the life she deserves whether she knows she's getting it or not. He's found a way to be numb through it all. But when Dashiell saves him from a violent encounter his eyes are suddenly open again. Pain becomes fresh, awareness makes him sensitive in a whole new way.
Dashiell is in a tenuous situation. Teetering between protecting Billy and feigning deference to Frankie, he's realizing very quickly that his hatred for the tyrant holding Billy's life and their fates in his hand is going to doom them if he can't find a way to get them both out. The stunning man has suddenly become the center of his world. They give in to the passion and tender feelings connecting them and when worse comes to worst it's Dashiell's surprising and unlikely ally that helps to freedom.
This was an intense ride with more than a little darkness. The tenderness was there, though, and you can see their true selves shine through everything they do. It's natural that they gravitate to one another and even more natural that they become one another's salvation. Their honesty is truly touching. I love that Dashiell didn't excuse all of Billy's snottiness, that he called him on it and made fun of it sometimes. He was badass and yet so very kind. His recklessness, however, made me roll my eyes at times because I just knew that it would get them in trouble. The constant reaffirmation of his dislike for following rules got a bit tedious. It did help move the plot along, but it doesn't mean I had to like it.
Billy was truly a brat sometimes and though he knew it he couldn't help it. His life wasn't the kind that allowed for softness but Dashiell's heart shining on his face gave him the courage needed to apologize, make amends, and find moments of peace in the chaos that was his life. He was incredibly emotional and I don't blame him for it, not in the least, but I was hoping for a moment where he found his spine, found his inner strength and became something more than he was in the beginning. To become decisive and defiant if only in his mind until they could escape. To use his resources and privileges to find solutions not involving Frankie with the support, love, and encouragement Dashiell freely gave.
Their ending was sweet and full of hope and also gave a great opening for Lee's story. I'm definitely looking forward to more from this series. Despite having tragedy, despair, abuse, and hopelessness the story was touching and all that darkness made their love and hope for the future so much brighter.
Willingly read and reviewed this ARC from the author.
Billy is in an incredibly difficult situation. The beatings his body, self-esteem, mind, and heart have taken over the last couple years were his price to pay to give his grandmother the life she deserves whether she knows she's getting it or not. He's found a way to be numb through it all. But when Dashiell saves him from a violent encounter his eyes are suddenly open again. Pain becomes fresh, awareness makes him sensitive in a whole new way.
Dashiell is in a tenuous situation. Teetering between protecting Billy and feigning deference to Frankie, he's realizing very quickly that his hatred for the tyrant holding Billy's life and their fates in his hand is going to doom them if he can't find a way to get them both out. The stunning man has suddenly become the center of his world. They give in to the passion and tender feelings connecting them and when worse comes to worst it's Dashiell's surprising and unlikely ally that helps to freedom.
This was an intense ride with more than a little darkness. The tenderness was there, though, and you can see their true selves shine through everything they do. It's natural that they gravitate to one another and even more natural that they become one another's salvation. Their honesty is truly touching. I love that Dashiell didn't excuse all of Billy's snottiness, that he called him on it and made fun of it sometimes. He was badass and yet so very kind. His recklessness, however, made me roll my eyes at times because I just knew that it would get them in trouble. The constant reaffirmation of his dislike for following rules got a bit tedious. It did help move the plot along, but it doesn't mean I had to like it.
Billy was truly a brat sometimes and though he knew it he couldn't help it. His life wasn't the kind that allowed for softness but Dashiell's heart shining on his face gave him the courage needed to apologize, make amends, and find moments of peace in the chaos that was his life. He was incredibly emotional and I don't blame him for it, not in the least, but I was hoping for a moment where he found his spine, found his inner strength and became something more than he was in the beginning. To become decisive and defiant if only in his mind until they could escape. To use his resources and privileges to find solutions not involving Frankie with the support, love, and encouragement Dashiell freely gave.
Their ending was sweet and full of hope and also gave a great opening for Lee's story. I'm definitely looking forward to more from this series. Despite having tragedy, despair, abuse, and hopelessness the story was touching and all that darkness made their love and hope for the future so much brighter.
Willingly read and reviewed this ARC from the author.
November 24, 2019
A tough listen but worthwhile (an audio review)
This is one tough listen. Seriously. I’ll give a trigger warning because the violence is, frankly, violent. And although mostly behind closed doors, there is a bit that is on the page. In other words, this book is not for the faint of heart or those for whom abuse is a trigger. If you’re not one of those people, this book has a lot to offer.
It’s gritty. Really gritty. I’m a fan of realism and this book delves deep into the psyche of several different men. Dashiell is the character we’re introduced to first. He’s out for a night on the town with his buddies when he comes upon an assault going on in a bathroom. He doesn’t hesitate, just wades in with both fists. The man he’s saved? A waif named Billy Grace. When Billy’s boyfriend offers Dashiell the job of bodyguarding Billy, he agrees. The money’s good, to be sure, but he’s also intrigued by this young man. What’s his story? Why is he with an older man with thinning hair and a paunch? Not that opposites don’t attract, but Billy is ethereal while Frankie is bordering on vulgar and, given the amount of money he’s offering for his lover’s protection, a very wealthy man.
Billy might be old enough to take care of himself, but in some ways he’s naïve. He treats Dashiell like the hired help he is and it takes him a long time to realize the older man is kind. Dashiell might have started out doing the minding for the money, but the men quickly find they have a lot in common. They bond, although Dashiell wants to feed Billy while the younger man knows he can’t put on an ounce or there will be hell to pay. Actually, there’s hell to pay on a regular basis. But Billy puts up with the abuse because he feels he has no choice. Once I found out why, I felt tremendous empathy. He’s in a no-win situation. Would I be willing to put up with what he does? I’d like to think not, but sometimes we have to make tough choices.
As I said, the abuse is unrelenting as the story unfolds. There is a lot going on in this book and I wasn’t always sure who were the good guys and who were the bad ones. Life is like that sometimes. Billy learns he can trust Dashiell, but the question is whether he can break free from the ties that are binding him to the horrible Frankie. The book is a romance, so at least that much was guaranteed. Did my heart break getting there? It might have.
Dan Calley narrated this book and I was glad. He also narrated the Jack Pyke series ‘Don’t’ and he does a superb job for those as well. His deep London accent and gruff voice take some getting used to, but he does really well with these gritty stories.
This book is the first in a series and I’m desperately hoping the others will come to audio as well. Enjoyable if difficult listen.
This is one tough listen. Seriously. I’ll give a trigger warning because the violence is, frankly, violent. And although mostly behind closed doors, there is a bit that is on the page. In other words, this book is not for the faint of heart or those for whom abuse is a trigger. If you’re not one of those people, this book has a lot to offer.
It’s gritty. Really gritty. I’m a fan of realism and this book delves deep into the psyche of several different men. Dashiell is the character we’re introduced to first. He’s out for a night on the town with his buddies when he comes upon an assault going on in a bathroom. He doesn’t hesitate, just wades in with both fists. The man he’s saved? A waif named Billy Grace. When Billy’s boyfriend offers Dashiell the job of bodyguarding Billy, he agrees. The money’s good, to be sure, but he’s also intrigued by this young man. What’s his story? Why is he with an older man with thinning hair and a paunch? Not that opposites don’t attract, but Billy is ethereal while Frankie is bordering on vulgar and, given the amount of money he’s offering for his lover’s protection, a very wealthy man.
Billy might be old enough to take care of himself, but in some ways he’s naïve. He treats Dashiell like the hired help he is and it takes him a long time to realize the older man is kind. Dashiell might have started out doing the minding for the money, but the men quickly find they have a lot in common. They bond, although Dashiell wants to feed Billy while the younger man knows he can’t put on an ounce or there will be hell to pay. Actually, there’s hell to pay on a regular basis. But Billy puts up with the abuse because he feels he has no choice. Once I found out why, I felt tremendous empathy. He’s in a no-win situation. Would I be willing to put up with what he does? I’d like to think not, but sometimes we have to make tough choices.
As I said, the abuse is unrelenting as the story unfolds. There is a lot going on in this book and I wasn’t always sure who were the good guys and who were the bad ones. Life is like that sometimes. Billy learns he can trust Dashiell, but the question is whether he can break free from the ties that are binding him to the horrible Frankie. The book is a romance, so at least that much was guaranteed. Did my heart break getting there? It might have.
Dan Calley narrated this book and I was glad. He also narrated the Jack Pyke series ‘Don’t’ and he does a superb job for those as well. His deep London accent and gruff voice take some getting used to, but he does really well with these gritty stories.
This book is the first in a series and I’m desperately hoping the others will come to audio as well. Enjoyable if difficult listen.
November 15, 2019
I was gifted my copy of this book.
Dashiell saves Billy from an attack and then is offered a job as his driver. Dashiell wants to say no, but one look at Billy and Dashiell knows he can't. When the full picture becomes clear to Dashiell, and he grows closer to Billy, they begin to think that maybe, just maybe they can get away. But there is more at stake than just Dashiell and Billy, and the noose grows ever tighter around Billy. Can they really be free?
So!
This is the first book I've listened to by AE Ryecart (although I do have signed copies of The Barista Boys books!) and this was one hell of a ride!
I *try* to seperate the narration from the story and write two bits of a review, but when a book is first person, multi point of view, I find it so much harder! So, not gonna!
Dan Calley narrates this book and this is the first of his work I've managed to finish (totally another story, quite literally!) and I bloody loved the way he tells Dashiell and Billy's story!
Calley get over every single feeling that Ryecart writes, and in such a way, I HAD to stay up late to finish it!
Dashiell has an immediate attraction to Billy, but knows he can't have him, not while Billy is so tied to the situation, but they can't keep away from each other. Calley gets over the whole range of emotions that Dashiell, and indeed Billy, go through when dealing with the situation, and how they can be together, while figuring it all out!
I loved that Dashiell's need to look after Billy, to feed him, soothe him, all those sorts of things, come out of nowhere for Dashiell. They really do hit him upside the head!
Billy? Oh, I felt, deeply, for Billy, I realy did. He knows he can never be free, not while he has responsibilites to take of, but he can hope, right?? You do feel it, deep in your soul, when Billy stops hoping, and it made me cry!
The way it all goes down comes out of left field, I thought I had more book left, it totally took me by surprise! Oh, I KNEW it was coming, but still.
There is another character here who is not all he sems, and his book is next, I so wanna listen to that too!
Be warned though, this book is dark, with reference to abuse that is described in some detail, but not every detail, if that makes sense. And the situation Billy is mixed up in has hints to underground activities. Some readers may have triggers.
BUT for me??
5 star read
5 star narration
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Dashiell saves Billy from an attack and then is offered a job as his driver. Dashiell wants to say no, but one look at Billy and Dashiell knows he can't. When the full picture becomes clear to Dashiell, and he grows closer to Billy, they begin to think that maybe, just maybe they can get away. But there is more at stake than just Dashiell and Billy, and the noose grows ever tighter around Billy. Can they really be free?
So!
This is the first book I've listened to by AE Ryecart (although I do have signed copies of The Barista Boys books!) and this was one hell of a ride!
I *try* to seperate the narration from the story and write two bits of a review, but when a book is first person, multi point of view, I find it so much harder! So, not gonna!
Dan Calley narrates this book and this is the first of his work I've managed to finish (totally another story, quite literally!) and I bloody loved the way he tells Dashiell and Billy's story!
Calley get over every single feeling that Ryecart writes, and in such a way, I HAD to stay up late to finish it!
Dashiell has an immediate attraction to Billy, but knows he can't have him, not while Billy is so tied to the situation, but they can't keep away from each other. Calley gets over the whole range of emotions that Dashiell, and indeed Billy, go through when dealing with the situation, and how they can be together, while figuring it all out!
I loved that Dashiell's need to look after Billy, to feed him, soothe him, all those sorts of things, come out of nowhere for Dashiell. They really do hit him upside the head!
Billy? Oh, I felt, deeply, for Billy, I realy did. He knows he can never be free, not while he has responsibilites to take of, but he can hope, right?? You do feel it, deep in your soul, when Billy stops hoping, and it made me cry!
The way it all goes down comes out of left field, I thought I had more book left, it totally took me by surprise! Oh, I KNEW it was coming, but still.
There is another character here who is not all he sems, and his book is next, I so wanna listen to that too!
Be warned though, this book is dark, with reference to abuse that is described in some detail, but not every detail, if that makes sense. And the situation Billy is mixed up in has hints to underground activities. Some readers may have triggers.
BUT for me??
5 star read
5 star narration
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
March 11, 2020
Audio book review:
Story: 5
Narration: 4
Overall: 5
I have to be honest. When I first listened to Captive Hearts, I wasn't sure how I felt about the narrator. You see, I'm American and Dan Calley's British accent was different from other ones I've listened to, and it was a bit tough for me to get used to. However, my opinion changed completely after listening to the second book.
Fortunately, (?) I completely forgot to leave a review of Captive Hearts after listening to it. Now I have the opportunity to review both books and also express my appreciation of Dan Calley's narrative style and voice.
As I said above, it took me a bit to get used to Dan Calley's accent but once I did, I was captivated by the story while listening to Radical Hearts. So much so that I went back and listened to Captive Hearts a second time. He does a good job with different voices for the different characters and I loved the soft tone of his voice. What this experience tells me is that I shouldn't judge a narrator solely by how much I did/didn't enjoy just one book.
Below is a portion of my review of the ebook from when it was first published:
First person POV isn't my favorite but it worked perfectly for this story. The blurb/synopsis for the book is great so I won't retell it here. I liked how Dashiell was such a strong character; he wasn't afraid to stand up to the bad guys and yet he knew when it was in Billy's best interest to back down.
Billy's situation just about broke my heart. The reason he is with Frankie is revealed in small bits and it takes a while before we learn exactly why he is willing to take the horrific abuse that Frankie deals out to him. This was a good thing in my opinion. It wasn't a case of dragging the story out, rather it was a great way to keep this reader in suspense and on the edge of my seat nearly from the get-go.
As far as the romance goes, I liked how the sex between Dashiell and Billy wasn't the main focus of the story. (What Frankie does to Billy is entirely different, and painful to read, but necessary for the story.)
I found the characters to be very interesting, with one secondary character a particular favorite, and I learned that he will be getting his own book. Yay!
A copy of this audiobook was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
Story: 5
Narration: 4
Overall: 5
I have to be honest. When I first listened to Captive Hearts, I wasn't sure how I felt about the narrator. You see, I'm American and Dan Calley's British accent was different from other ones I've listened to, and it was a bit tough for me to get used to. However, my opinion changed completely after listening to the second book.
Fortunately, (?) I completely forgot to leave a review of Captive Hearts after listening to it. Now I have the opportunity to review both books and also express my appreciation of Dan Calley's narrative style and voice.
As I said above, it took me a bit to get used to Dan Calley's accent but once I did, I was captivated by the story while listening to Radical Hearts. So much so that I went back and listened to Captive Hearts a second time. He does a good job with different voices for the different characters and I loved the soft tone of his voice. What this experience tells me is that I shouldn't judge a narrator solely by how much I did/didn't enjoy just one book.
Below is a portion of my review of the ebook from when it was first published:
First person POV isn't my favorite but it worked perfectly for this story. The blurb/synopsis for the book is great so I won't retell it here. I liked how Dashiell was such a strong character; he wasn't afraid to stand up to the bad guys and yet he knew when it was in Billy's best interest to back down.
Billy's situation just about broke my heart. The reason he is with Frankie is revealed in small bits and it takes a while before we learn exactly why he is willing to take the horrific abuse that Frankie deals out to him. This was a good thing in my opinion. It wasn't a case of dragging the story out, rather it was a great way to keep this reader in suspense and on the edge of my seat nearly from the get-go.
As far as the romance goes, I liked how the sex between Dashiell and Billy wasn't the main focus of the story. (What Frankie does to Billy is entirely different, and painful to read, but necessary for the story.)
I found the characters to be very interesting, with one secondary character a particular favorite, and I learned that he will be getting his own book. Yay!
A copy of this audiobook was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
February 26, 2018
A new book and series from A E Ryecart and I enjoyed reading it.
A different plot to what I normally read but I liked the way the "captive" wasn't extremely abused or used etc. We get the sense of what goes on behind closed doors but it's only a slap or such that we read about, and the resulting injuries.
We get to read from both MC's POV which I think with a plot like this is helpful as we begin to understand, as we work through the story, why it is Billy is willingly with Frankie. He's strong enough to stay with Frankie and take whatever is given because what he gets out of it is worth more to him than himself. You can feel his sorrow and loneliness but then the hope that he feels upon meeting Dashiell and learning to trust again.
Dashiell is adrift and stumbles into a job watching over Billy. The £1000 a week is great but not actually the deciding factor in taking the job. He sees Billy, surprised by his attraction to the young, slim man but is overcome by the isolation and despair that he sees in his eyes. Finding out what actually happens to Billy, he's determined to look after him and find a way out for them both. He's strong enough mentally and physically to protect them both. As they grow closer, they lean upon each other and learn to trust but the most important thing is that Frankie not find out of any attraction, feelings or even kindness that may be shown between them.
It's nice reading what Dashiell feels for Billy, kind of May/December relationship but they seem perfectly suited to each other. They fall into a physical relationship quite quickly but it also builds up over a number of weeks where they cannot touch or act upon anything. Billy starts with his bratty attitude which he uses as protection for himself but Dashiell quickly wears him down, showing that he's there for Billy not Frankie an is someone he can rely upon.
Towards the end of the book, things seem to pick up and suddenly wrap up withing a couple of chapters. That was kind of unsettling as I was expecting this big explosion of feelings and actions but it just finished. I did like the epilogue, a nice way to wrap things up and catch up with the MC's.
I received an ARC from the author and am happily writing a review for this book
A different plot to what I normally read but I liked the way the "captive" wasn't extremely abused or used etc. We get the sense of what goes on behind closed doors but it's only a slap or such that we read about, and the resulting injuries.
We get to read from both MC's POV which I think with a plot like this is helpful as we begin to understand, as we work through the story, why it is Billy is willingly with Frankie. He's strong enough to stay with Frankie and take whatever is given because what he gets out of it is worth more to him than himself. You can feel his sorrow and loneliness but then the hope that he feels upon meeting Dashiell and learning to trust again.
Dashiell is adrift and stumbles into a job watching over Billy. The £1000 a week is great but not actually the deciding factor in taking the job. He sees Billy, surprised by his attraction to the young, slim man but is overcome by the isolation and despair that he sees in his eyes. Finding out what actually happens to Billy, he's determined to look after him and find a way out for them both. He's strong enough mentally and physically to protect them both. As they grow closer, they lean upon each other and learn to trust but the most important thing is that Frankie not find out of any attraction, feelings or even kindness that may be shown between them.
It's nice reading what Dashiell feels for Billy, kind of May/December relationship but they seem perfectly suited to each other. They fall into a physical relationship quite quickly but it also builds up over a number of weeks where they cannot touch or act upon anything. Billy starts with his bratty attitude which he uses as protection for himself but Dashiell quickly wears him down, showing that he's there for Billy not Frankie an is someone he can rely upon.
Towards the end of the book, things seem to pick up and suddenly wrap up withing a couple of chapters. That was kind of unsettling as I was expecting this big explosion of feelings and actions but it just finished. I did like the epilogue, a nice way to wrap things up and catch up with the MC's.
I received an ARC from the author and am happily writing a review for this book
March 17, 2018
A great start to a new series!
Captive Hearts is the first book in a new series by A. E. Ryecart. The story is told in first person POV (something new from this author), alternating between the two MCs (main characters): Dashiell and Billy. I liked how the author incorporated the pronunciation of Dashiell's name into the story.
First person POV isn't my favorite but it worked perfectly for this story. The blurb/synopsis for the book is great so I won't retell it here. I liked how Dashiell was such a strong character; he wasn't afraid to stand up to the bad guys and yet he knew when it was in Billy's best interest to back down.
Billy's situation just about broke my heart. The reason he is with Frankie is revealed in small bits and it takes a while before we learn exactly why he is willing to take the horrific abuse that Frankie deals out to him. This was a good thing in my opinion. It wasn't a case of dragging the story out, rather it was a great way to keep this reader in suspense and on the edge of my seat nearly from the get-go.
As far as the romance goes, I liked how the sex between Dashiell and Billy wasn't the main focus of the story. (What Frankie does to Billy is entirely different, and painful to read, but necessary for the story.)
I found the characters to be very interesting, with one secondary character a particular favorite, and I learned that he will be getting his own book. Yay!
As a huge fan of this author's Barista Boys series I was happy to see the café featured as a location in this story. If you enjoy a bit of suspense along with your romance this might be a good one for you. I'm looking forward to reading more books in this series.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
Captive Hearts is the first book in a new series by A. E. Ryecart. The story is told in first person POV (something new from this author), alternating between the two MCs (main characters): Dashiell and Billy. I liked how the author incorporated the pronunciation of Dashiell's name into the story.
“Haynes. Frankie Haynes. Dash—what? What sort of name is that?”
I got this all the time, and I smothered a groan.
“Dashiell. DASH-uhhll. Emphasis on the first syllable. My mum had a thing for hard-boiled crime novels. Dashiell Hammett? The author?” I added, but Frankie just looked blank.
“I'll call you Dash.”
“I’d rather you didn’t.” My shoulders stiffened. I hated being called Dash. I wouldn't even let my closest friends called me that, and Frankie Haynes didn't, and wouldn't, come into that category.
First person POV isn't my favorite but it worked perfectly for this story. The blurb/synopsis for the book is great so I won't retell it here. I liked how Dashiell was such a strong character; he wasn't afraid to stand up to the bad guys and yet he knew when it was in Billy's best interest to back down.
Billy's situation just about broke my heart. The reason he is with Frankie is revealed in small bits and it takes a while before we learn exactly why he is willing to take the horrific abuse that Frankie deals out to him. This was a good thing in my opinion. It wasn't a case of dragging the story out, rather it was a great way to keep this reader in suspense and on the edge of my seat nearly from the get-go.
As far as the romance goes, I liked how the sex between Dashiell and Billy wasn't the main focus of the story. (What Frankie does to Billy is entirely different, and painful to read, but necessary for the story.)
I found the characters to be very interesting, with one secondary character a particular favorite, and I learned that he will be getting his own book. Yay!
As a huge fan of this author's Barista Boys series I was happy to see the café featured as a location in this story. If you enjoy a bit of suspense along with your romance this might be a good one for you. I'm looking forward to reading more books in this series.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
November 20, 2019
3.75 Stars
The trope here is not new: the kept lover of a gangland boss and his bodyguard fall in love. It is one that I usually enjoy, but it can also be cookie-cutter and predictable. What I found in this case, however, is that though there was some predictability along the plot lines, the characters bring a freshness and a raw honesty to the story.
Dashell and Billy are well-rounded characters, and their vulnerability is evident throughout the development of their relationship. Dashell is protective, obviously, but also tender and sweet in his concern for and devotion to Billy. He’s tough but thoughtful, and I enjoyed his reactions to learning more about Billy as their relationship develops. I was particularly drawn, however, to Billy, whose choice for living an independent life appear limited by his devotions and loyalties to family. His scenes are heartbreaking in emotion, yet he never comes across as the simpering, weak victim. He is committed to his choices and feels trapped, yet he doesn’t bemoan his fate nor shed copious amounts of helpless tears. Despite his situation and abuse, his character doesn’t come across as the weepy waif in peril, a refreshing change from many similar characters in this trope. In fact, his strength is probably the most fascinating aspect of this story.
Narration Review: Dan Calley brings a strong voice to the characters and the narrative. At times the accents are fairly thick and the reading a bit monotone, but overall the performance is solid and enjoyable.
Captive Hearts is a satisfying, compelling listen. Despite some predictability and rather obvious character placement, the story did not disappoint and is a sound beginning to the Deviant Hearts series. This was my first experience with Ms. Ryecart’s books, and I look forward to listening to more of this series.
I was provided with a free copy of this audiobook by the author in exchange for an honest review.
The trope here is not new: the kept lover of a gangland boss and his bodyguard fall in love. It is one that I usually enjoy, but it can also be cookie-cutter and predictable. What I found in this case, however, is that though there was some predictability along the plot lines, the characters bring a freshness and a raw honesty to the story.
Dashell and Billy are well-rounded characters, and their vulnerability is evident throughout the development of their relationship. Dashell is protective, obviously, but also tender and sweet in his concern for and devotion to Billy. He’s tough but thoughtful, and I enjoyed his reactions to learning more about Billy as their relationship develops. I was particularly drawn, however, to Billy, whose choice for living an independent life appear limited by his devotions and loyalties to family. His scenes are heartbreaking in emotion, yet he never comes across as the simpering, weak victim. He is committed to his choices and feels trapped, yet he doesn’t bemoan his fate nor shed copious amounts of helpless tears. Despite his situation and abuse, his character doesn’t come across as the weepy waif in peril, a refreshing change from many similar characters in this trope. In fact, his strength is probably the most fascinating aspect of this story.
Narration Review: Dan Calley brings a strong voice to the characters and the narrative. At times the accents are fairly thick and the reading a bit monotone, but overall the performance is solid and enjoyable.
Captive Hearts is a satisfying, compelling listen. Despite some predictability and rather obvious character placement, the story did not disappoint and is a sound beginning to the Deviant Hearts series. This was my first experience with Ms. Ryecart’s books, and I look forward to listening to more of this series.
I was provided with a free copy of this audiobook by the author in exchange for an honest review.
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