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Haven Hart #2
Hug It Out
Riordan Darcy has spent the last fourteen years building a name for himself as a notorious assassin. He travels the world taking the lives of some of the worst humanity has to offer, leaving his signature on every victim.
Riordan becomes unhappy and withdrawn from the world after a job goes horribly wrong and he makes the decision to get out of the life he was forced into, so long ago. When his meddling, older sister gives him a birthday gift that’s impossible to refuse, his plans to leave his life of crime take a backseat when he’s forced to protect the life of a veritable stranger.
When professional hugger and TLC provider, Teddy Harris, is offered a month-long companionship contract, he’s hard pressed to turn it down. Cuddler by day and a video game reviewer by night, Teddy’s need to make people feel loved and cared for is what drives him. When he meets Riordan Darcy, professional challenge and personal temptation collide, making it nearly impossible for him to endure a whole month with the gorgeous, enigmatic man without falling head over heels in love.
When a mole is discovered within Riordan’s organization, relationships are compromised, and people’s lives are in danger. Time isn’t on their side, and they discover answers can’t always be found by hugging it out when someone is hell-bent on eliminating each and every one of them. Can Riordan and Teddy survive long enough to fall in love, or will they die trying?
Riordan becomes unhappy and withdrawn from the world after a job goes horribly wrong and he makes the decision to get out of the life he was forced into, so long ago. When his meddling, older sister gives him a birthday gift that’s impossible to refuse, his plans to leave his life of crime take a backseat when he’s forced to protect the life of a veritable stranger.
When professional hugger and TLC provider, Teddy Harris, is offered a month-long companionship contract, he’s hard pressed to turn it down. Cuddler by day and a video game reviewer by night, Teddy’s need to make people feel loved and cared for is what drives him. When he meets Riordan Darcy, professional challenge and personal temptation collide, making it nearly impossible for him to endure a whole month with the gorgeous, enigmatic man without falling head over heels in love.
When a mole is discovered within Riordan’s organization, relationships are compromised, and people’s lives are in danger. Time isn’t on their side, and they discover answers can’t always be found by hugging it out when someone is hell-bent on eliminating each and every one of them. Can Riordan and Teddy survive long enough to fall in love, or will they die trying?
440 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2018
320 people are currently reading
618 people want to read
About the author
Davidson King
56 books731 followersDavidson King, always had a hope that someday her daydreams would become real-life stories. As a child, you would often find her in her own world, thinking up the most insane situations. It may have taken her awhile, but she made her dream come true with her first published work, Snow Falling.
She managed to wrangle herself a husband who matched her crazy and they hatched three wonderful children.
If you were to ask her what gave her the courage to finally publish, she’d tell you it was her amazing family and friends. Support is vital in all things and when you’re afraid of your dreams, it will be your cheering section that will lift you up.
She managed to wrangle herself a husband who matched her crazy and they hatched three wonderful children.
If you were to ask her what gave her the courage to finally publish, she’d tell you it was her amazing family and friends. Support is vital in all things and when you’re afraid of your dreams, it will be your cheering section that will lift you up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 294 reviews
August 17, 2018
It was a far better book than the first one in the series, in terms of story, writing and characters development. It felt like a thriller movie’s plot, and I enjoyed the whole ride, be it while sitting on the edge of my seat, with my heart in my throat, or laughing like crazy at the funny moments.
There were a few typos, and the writing felt a little bit jerky at times, like switching between two things abruptly, but all in all, an enjoyable read, and it has gotten me hooked to all these assassins, weirdly! Can’t wait for the next one! :)
There were a few typos, and the writing felt a little bit jerky at times, like switching between two things abruptly, but all in all, an enjoyable read, and it has gotten me hooked to all these assassins, weirdly! Can’t wait for the next one! :)
July 16, 2018
This was even more my kind of thing than book one was and I absolutely loved that the author went to one of Unseelie Court's more obscure Irish mythological figures for her assassin's nickname and modus operandi. Vicious but brilliant.
The Dullahan isn't something to be messed with and is believed to be a big influence on the story of the Headless Horseman in Washington Irving's Sleepy Hollow, so Riordan's Irish ancestry was a perfect starting point for him to carry out his hits by removing the heads of his victims. Like I said, vicious but brilliant!
This book's actually a lot less angsty then book one was and our favourites Snow, Christopher, Frank and Bill make guest appearances in Hug It Out too.
It's also a lot more funny, there were times when I did chuckle out loud, especially at Teddy's antics. The narrative itself is inspired - professional hugger employed by a hitman's unaware sister to "cheer him up" and I loved it.
While I pinpointed who the villain of the piece was going to be early on, it didn't spoil my enjoyment of the thrilling ride to the conclusion, which was nicely tied up and finished off with a smashing epilogue.
Now I want Mace and Bill to get together and I want to find out more about the mysterious Black please Meredith :)
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
The Dullahan isn't something to be messed with and is believed to be a big influence on the story of the Headless Horseman in Washington Irving's Sleepy Hollow, so Riordan's Irish ancestry was a perfect starting point for him to carry out his hits by removing the heads of his victims. Like I said, vicious but brilliant!
This book's actually a lot less angsty then book one was and our favourites Snow, Christopher, Frank and Bill make guest appearances in Hug It Out too.
It's also a lot more funny, there were times when I did chuckle out loud, especially at Teddy's antics. The narrative itself is inspired - professional hugger employed by a hitman's unaware sister to "cheer him up" and I loved it.
While I pinpointed who the villain of the piece was going to be early on, it didn't spoil my enjoyment of the thrilling ride to the conclusion, which was nicely tied up and finished off with a smashing epilogue.
Now I want Mace and Bill to get together and I want to find out more about the mysterious Black please Meredith :)
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
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dnf
December 12, 2018DNF @ 7%
I like the cover, and really liked the blurb idea of an ultimate Tough Guy in fear of hugs. It sounded so adorably silly and cute on the surface I just had to read the story. I was hoping there would be depth too; perhaps having a go at traditional masculinity cultural and gender norms.
Turns out I never got very far into the story. The plot felt contrived and unrealistic. None of the MCs behaved as I would expect a professional to do at their first meeting. And even more damning, Tough Guy Hero was seriously freaky. Not only does he covertly kill people for a living, he digs up their graves, chop off his victim's heads and keep as trophies. WTF, WTF, WTF!!!!
Even Teddy the Hugger states he finds Hero's house "creepy" during his first visit but moments later (on the same page!!) he wants Tough Guy's hands to touch him. My internal monologue at this point was one single word: RUUUUUUUUNNNNNN!!
I like the cover, and really liked the blurb idea of an ultimate Tough Guy in fear of hugs. It sounded so adorably silly and cute on the surface I just had to read the story. I was hoping there would be depth too; perhaps having a go at traditional masculinity cultural and gender norms.
Turns out I never got very far into the story. The plot felt contrived and unrealistic. None of the MCs behaved as I would expect a professional to do at their first meeting. And even more damning, Tough Guy Hero was seriously freaky. Not only does he covertly kill people for a living, he digs up their graves, chop off his victim's heads and keep as trophies. WTF, WTF, WTF!!!!
Even Teddy the Hugger states he finds Hero's house "creepy" during his first visit but moments later (on the same page!!) he wants Tough Guy's hands to touch him. My internal monologue at this point was one single word: RUUUUUUUUNNNNNN!!
January 30, 2019
3.5*
So this is the story of the notorious assassin and the professional hugger.
I’d enjoyed the previous book Snow despite it being the cutest little mafia book. This again is a light and fluffy read despite the main character being known as Dullahan because he takes the head of his victims.
Dullahan’s last job went wrong and it’s eating away at him. His sister thinks a hug will help and hires Teddy for the month.
I enjoyed this one more than Snow. I was prepared for the gentle light read since this is obviously the author’s style. What did annoy me however was how obvious the mole was.
The story also left a lot to be desired but overall I still enjoyed the read.
The sound of the key turning announced his arrival. Glancing at my reflection in the glass cabinet showed a scowling man and that wasn’t how I wanted Teddy to see me. So, when I stepped out of the kitchen, I gave him the biggest smile I could muster.
“Oh, sweet god, did you murder someone?” That was how he greeted me. I guessed my face betrayed me.
“Not today,” I joked, and it was true.
Teddy watched me through narrowed eyes. “Why are you greeting me like the opening scene of a Leave It to Beaver episode? What’s happening?” Suddenly, his eyes were darting all over the room. “I’m trying to be friendlier, remember?” He didn’t look at all convinced.
So this is the story of the notorious assassin and the professional hugger.
I’d enjoyed the previous book Snow despite it being the cutest little mafia book. This again is a light and fluffy read despite the main character being known as Dullahan because he takes the head of his victims.
Dullahan’s last job went wrong and it’s eating away at him. His sister thinks a hug will help and hires Teddy for the month.
I enjoyed this one more than Snow. I was prepared for the gentle light read since this is obviously the author’s style. What did annoy me however was how obvious the mole was.
The story also left a lot to be desired but overall I still enjoyed the read.
The sound of the key turning announced his arrival. Glancing at my reflection in the glass cabinet showed a scowling man and that wasn’t how I wanted Teddy to see me. So, when I stepped out of the kitchen, I gave him the biggest smile I could muster.
“Oh, sweet god, did you murder someone?” That was how he greeted me. I guessed my face betrayed me.
“Not today,” I joked, and it was true.
Teddy watched me through narrowed eyes. “Why are you greeting me like the opening scene of a Leave It to Beaver episode? What’s happening?” Suddenly, his eyes were darting all over the room. “I’m trying to be friendlier, remember?” He didn’t look at all convinced.
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April 1, 2018This is yet another one I will not be rating. The assassins in this book were imo, pretty laughable and unbelievable. What assassin let's a random stranger practically live in their house immediately. Also, I knew who the mole in this book was pretty much right away. It was beyond obvious, and was disappointing these highly trained assassins couldn't figure it out. There was a scene at the end that was beyond cute and romantic, but that was about it for my enjoyment of this book. However, there might be people who will enjoy this, and I don't want to sway them by rating this.
May 6, 2018
I loved this story very. Although there are darker parts I cracked more than once because they were funny together. It had an innovative storyline and amazing plot.
Riordan's business goes terrible wrong and now needs help he isn't completely aware off. He gets an offer from an uncommon corner.... his sister hired a counselor who will keep Riordan company for a month.
Teddy is a professional hugger... yes you read it well a hugger and has to try to bring Riordan back from his withdrawal.
Easier said than done... even they are drawn to each other, imagine a hugger and a hitman!
Teddy naive and optimistic behavior was killing for a guy like Riordan.
Riordan is an assassin, vicious and sharp as a knife and his organization and associated surroundings are dangerous.... with a mol in the organization it's getting even more dangerous...Who is to trust and who not.
This story was intriguing and well put together. It had many sides, from witty demeanor and sweet romantic moments to killing suspense and sometimes it got heavily emotional.
The colleagues from Riordan organization were such a great troupe. All with their own specific characteristics and.... deadly marks.
When Snow and Christopher make their entrance I was ecstatic. Gosh I still loved them hard.
All in all an enthralling story with mostly lovable but also odious people.
Riordan's business goes terrible wrong and now needs help he isn't completely aware off. He gets an offer from an uncommon corner.... his sister hired a counselor who will keep Riordan company for a month.
Teddy is a professional hugger... yes you read it well a hugger and has to try to bring Riordan back from his withdrawal.
Easier said than done... even they are drawn to each other, imagine a hugger and a hitman!
Teddy naive and optimistic behavior was killing for a guy like Riordan.
Riordan is an assassin, vicious and sharp as a knife and his organization and associated surroundings are dangerous.... with a mol in the organization it's getting even more dangerous...Who is to trust and who not.
This story was intriguing and well put together. It had many sides, from witty demeanor and sweet romantic moments to killing suspense and sometimes it got heavily emotional.
The colleagues from Riordan organization were such a great troupe. All with their own specific characteristics and.... deadly marks.
When Snow and Christopher make their entrance I was ecstatic. Gosh I still loved them hard.
All in all an enthralling story with mostly lovable but also odious people.
May 5, 2019
Audiobook review4,5 stars
An assassin and ...... a professional hugger. You know they are not quite the couple you instinctively see before you - but they work! And so does this book. I just spent an awesome evening listening to this book and before I knew it I'd gobbled up the entire book.
Riordan Darcy, assassin extraordinaire, is having a rough time after a mission gone horribly wrong. He's withdrawing from the world and his family, while he's trying to figure out where to go next. Enter a meddling but well-meaning sister, who's determined to make Riordan enjoy life again. She hires a professional hugger to provide some TLC and get him in a better mood.
Teddy Harris is probably the most giving person you'll ever meet. He loves and cares fiercely and deeply and he freely shares that love with anyone in need of a hug, a cuddle, someone to talk to. The two are as different as people can get and Teddy has his work cut out for him, if he hopes to break through the thick wall Riordan has surrounded himself with. And when things take a turn for the dangerous when a mole is threatening their lives, Teddy can't help but wonder if he's bitten of more than he can chew.
So let me start off with saying that to enjoy the book you will have to suspend beliefs that it will be accurately portraying the lives and manners of assassins. Take the book and story for what it is - fiction that's supposed to entertain you for the duration. If you do that, you will enjoy the ride, the hugs, cuddles and massages. If you don't, you'll probably spend a fair portion of the book rolling your eyes and possibly even yell at the book. So for your own sake; leave reality at the door and just enjoy the ride.
This book is told from two POV's and is also narrated by two narrators; Joel Leslie and Philip Alces. Dual narrations can be good, but they can also be bad - it all depends on the book and the narrators. So let's break it down a bit. You might know by now that I love Joel Leslie's narrations, he's simply fantastic. In this book he performed the chapters told from Teddy Harris' POV. And you know, I can see it before me; Joel Leslie and a professional hugger. They are a really good match, and it shows in the narration. It is spot on, the feelings, Leslie's portraying of Teddy. All things Teddy shines through with each and every word, the warmth, caring, Teddy's genuine happiness and that brightness that was him. Leslie did a wonderful job bringing him to life, he felt real and you felt with him and was with him every step of the way. And as always, the wide range of voices he has in his arsenal somehow still manages to astound me even after all this time and numerous books I've listened to by him.
The parts told from Riordan's POV was narrated by Philip Alces, and while I did enjoy the narration I'm not able to rave about it as much as for Leslie. I will say this though, his voice! Can you have a crush on a voice? I can happily listen to that voice for days and probably don't care much one way or another what words were spoken. I loved how passionate his narration was, the feelings he added to King's words. It fit the moment, the characters and was just right. He nailed it to perfection and never strayed into that dangerous over-passionate/over-acting, but was just right. It made for a great listening experience. I only have one small thing in the negative column, and that was that Alces didn't have a real distinction between the voices. It probably wouldn't have been as noticeable had he not been paired with Leslie who has such wide range of different voices. But then again, I only noticed it in the beginning of the book, then I was just too engrossed to notice or care about anything other than enjoying myself.
Hug It Out was a surprisingly cuddly romance between an assassin and a hugger. It was sweet, romantic and just hit home for me. I'm really looking forward to see what else this series might bring, I'm betting on something unexpected.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
July 11, 2019
Good installment!
Loved Teddy so much even though he made some pretty silly decisions when his life was CLEARLY in danger. Riordan took some getting used to but that was expected based on his profession.
All in all, this was a good book, fast paced and pretty well written. The baddie however was so obvious that I wondered (like Lee did) how none of them even suspected the person or even stayed so long in their business. *Facepalm*
I will of course be continuing this series because the next book is about Mace and Bill who have serious animosity between them which will definitely make for a good read!
Loved Teddy so much even though he made some pretty silly decisions when his life was CLEARLY in danger. Riordan took some getting used to but that was expected based on his profession.
All in all, this was a good book, fast paced and pretty well written. The baddie however was so obvious that I wondered (like Lee did) how none of them even suspected the person or even stayed so long in their business. *Facepalm*
I will of course be continuing this series because the next book is about Mace and Bill who have serious animosity between them which will definitely make for a good read!
December 31, 2024
Who would have thought that I would totally fall for a book about a professional hugger and an assassin? But I did. Loved Teddy 💙 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
April 9, 2018
I didn't know that it was the second book in the series. So I was pleasantly surprised to see Snow and Chris there too. The plot was good, the relationship between the friends assassins was funny and endearing sometimes. I liked the mole situation and that it was not known almost to the end who it was.
Some minor moment made me roll my eyes a little (how easily Black released him from service for example). But the ending was charming and great fun. I love the world the author is building. I hope there will be books featuring Mace and Black and their HEAs.
Some minor moment made me roll my eyes a little (how easily Black released him from service for example). But the ending was charming and great fun. I love the world the author is building. I hope there will be books featuring Mace and Black and their HEAs.
June 25, 2021
Re-read June, 24, 2021
*** Two totally different guys, and a wild story.***
On one hand we have Riordan, 33, black hair and green eyes, a hit man, "the Dullahan," 15 years of being careful, intense and dangerous.
On the other hand, we have Teddy, 26, brown curly hair, tall, lanky and wears glasses, who is outgoing, a giver of happiness and comfort. Really, that is his job, a professional hugger.
He's a friend of Snow, from the first story, who is married to the mob boss Christopher Manos.
Aisling hires Teddy to help Riordan, her brother, get better, as he suffers from his last mission gone bad. Teddy the bundle of sweetness, cooked, pampered made Riordan smile and laugh and seriously turned him on. A kiss ignited their passions, with awesome sexy times.
* The first half is about their progressing relationship, and the second part is the discovery of a mole in Riordan's business, that puts Teddy in danger. So, we see a poisoning, a hostage situation, and more. Riordan screws up, and must grovel, big time.
This is a romance, a thriller, a rom-com, and is quite different and fun. I didn't take it too seriously, because some of it was not believable, but I simply relaxed, and was entertained.
ENJOY !
======
*** Two totally different guys, and a wild story.***
On one hand we have Riordan, 33, black hair and green eyes, a hit man, "the Dullahan," 15 years of being careful, intense and dangerous.
On the other hand, we have Teddy, 26, brown curly hair, tall, lanky and wears glasses, who is outgoing, a giver of happiness and comfort. Really, that is his job, a professional hugger.
He's a friend of Snow, from the first story, who is married to the mob boss Christopher Manos.
Aisling hires Teddy to help Riordan, her brother, get better, as he suffers from his last mission gone bad. Teddy the bundle of sweetness, cooked, pampered made Riordan smile and laugh and seriously turned him on. A kiss ignited their passions, with awesome sexy times.
* The first half is about their progressing relationship, and the second part is the discovery of a mole in Riordan's business, that puts Teddy in danger. So, we see a poisoning, a hostage situation, and more. Riordan screws up, and must grovel, big time.
This is a romance, a thriller, a rom-com, and is quite different and fun. I didn't take it too seriously, because some of it was not believable, but I simply relaxed, and was entertained.
ENJOY !
======
January 11, 2022
Not as good as the first, but if you suspend all your disbeliefs it's a great read.
July 6, 2020
Continuano le avventure degli abitanti di Haven, e questa volta tocca a Teddy, un nome che è tutto un programma e Riordan, sicario di professione. Come sempre, un ottimo mix tra romance e suspense, con un pizzico di mistero.
July 3, 2019
This book irritated me like nobody's business ... and so did Emma! Oh, that fucking C.U.N.T. that is Emma ...
1. How typical of some women ... let's be honest, some women CAN be this way ...always causing trouble and at the first SIGN of trouble, Emma tries to turn everyone against each other and says the nastiest shit about people behind their backs! I don't know if I should be annoyed that this author drew on every stereotype to create this character, or gravely nod by head because she isn't wrong!! Even though Emma doesn't know jack shit about Jones and he may very well be IN trouble, she automatically tries to convince everyone he IS trouble and is ready to fuck him over in an instant! Yep, lots of members of the female gender everyone!!
2. Is this author trying to make the killer/criminal obvious to the reader? Because it's clear who the culprit was/is from the get-go, and it just ends up making the men, the very experienced "in the black" assassin men, seem TSTL when they don't suspect Emma right away!!
HELLOOOOOOOOOOOOOO TEDDY WAS WITH EMMA, EMMA IS A CONNIVING DISGUSTING VILE BITCH, EMMA'S MODUS OPERANDI IS POISON - HELLOOOOOOOOO, POISON!!! - TEDDY GETS POISONED, AND EVERYONE SUSPECTS SOMEONE ELSE!!!! Are you fucking kidding me?!!!? Do you NEED a larger neon sign to point straight at this nonsense?!!? ALSO - This is feeding into the bullshit of how men dismiss women as threats just because they're women; seemingly incapable of the horrors men are capable of [when lots of female criminals have proven they're capable of so much more]!! For this bullshit stereotype to be perpetuated by a FEMALE AUTHOR is fucking obnoxious as hell and stupidly off-putting >:-o!!! I'm pissed off!!
It's EMMA you fucking idiots!!! As for the author, she needs to stop with the stigma and stereotypes ... because it's not done ironically, it's perpetuating them and it's fucking obnoxious!! I hated the stupid decision this author made in turning intelligent, smart, cunning, splendid men into idiots where THIS was concerned!! EMMA IS THE CULPRIT!!! TAKE HER DOWN FOR FUCK'S SAKE!!! Also, I bet she is the mole, and she better get what's coming to her for such a betrayal >:-o!!!!
*** They did figure it out a while later, and it was within proper timing in terms of when the author wanted to make the reveal - transparent much? - but I mean for pete's sake, it was clear from the get-go!!! Also, author, know the difference between sociopath and psychopath ... though similar, Emma ain't no garden variety sociopath, she is clearly and truly a fucking PSYCHOPATH!!!!
And Teddy, this author destroyed him with her horrible pacing/timing!! Teddy was a fucking drama queen ... and instead of jumping with glee and THEN demanding answers, when he finds out the man he loves is ALIVE, he decides to throw a tantrum because he was supposed to believe Riordan was dead for the sting to work!! I mean for fuck's sake, the man you thought was dead is ALIVE, and all you can do is throw a fucking 2 year old tantrum?!!? I wanted to smack Teddy HARD!!!!
ALSO - the writing ... this book needed A LOT of editing, and there are subtle jumps in the storyline where the author just paraphrases important moments for the reader, and it just smack of lazy and sloppy writing!! This book did NOT work for me and I didn't find it to be a success at all!!
I WILL continue with the next book because I anticipate the next to be much better, I'm willing to give this author a chance, and I'm intrigued by Bill's story, as well as Black's [separately of course, as they won't be a couple]!! We shall see what I decide where this author is concerned but I'll keep an open mind for this series for now!! Again, we shall see!!
Note: This review is about THIS book, not about the author as a whole! I know the author is new to writing and so I'm willing to give the benefit of the doubt for now with upcoming books, just to see how this author finds her footing! Though I HAVE to be honest about this book, I haven't parted ways with this author yet [if I do], because it's clear she so genuinely wants to succeed at this [plus, she's so sweet about it], and I'm willing to give her a chance :-)! So again, we shall see!!
1. How typical of some women ... let's be honest, some women CAN be this way ...always causing trouble and at the first SIGN of trouble, Emma tries to turn everyone against each other and says the nastiest shit about people behind their backs! I don't know if I should be annoyed that this author drew on every stereotype to create this character, or gravely nod by head because she isn't wrong!! Even though Emma doesn't know jack shit about Jones and he may very well be IN trouble, she automatically tries to convince everyone he IS trouble and is ready to fuck him over in an instant! Yep, lots of members of the female gender everyone!!
2. Is this author trying to make the killer/criminal obvious to the reader? Because it's clear who the culprit was/is from the get-go, and it just ends up making the men, the very experienced "in the black" assassin men, seem TSTL when they don't suspect Emma right away!!
HELLOOOOOOOOOOOOOO TEDDY WAS WITH EMMA, EMMA IS A CONNIVING DISGUSTING VILE BITCH, EMMA'S MODUS OPERANDI IS POISON - HELLOOOOOOOOO, POISON!!! - TEDDY GETS POISONED, AND EVERYONE SUSPECTS SOMEONE ELSE!!!! Are you fucking kidding me?!!!? Do you NEED a larger neon sign to point straight at this nonsense?!!? ALSO - This is feeding into the bullshit of how men dismiss women as threats just because they're women; seemingly incapable of the horrors men are capable of [when lots of female criminals have proven they're capable of so much more]!! For this bullshit stereotype to be perpetuated by a FEMALE AUTHOR is fucking obnoxious as hell and stupidly off-putting >:-o!!! I'm pissed off!!
It's EMMA you fucking idiots!!! As for the author, she needs to stop with the stigma and stereotypes ... because it's not done ironically, it's perpetuating them and it's fucking obnoxious!! I hated the stupid decision this author made in turning intelligent, smart, cunning, splendid men into idiots where THIS was concerned!! EMMA IS THE CULPRIT!!! TAKE HER DOWN FOR FUCK'S SAKE!!! Also, I bet she is the mole, and she better get what's coming to her for such a betrayal >:-o!!!!
*** They did figure it out a while later, and it was within proper timing in terms of when the author wanted to make the reveal - transparent much? - but I mean for pete's sake, it was clear from the get-go!!! Also, author, know the difference between sociopath and psychopath ... though similar, Emma ain't no garden variety sociopath, she is clearly and truly a fucking PSYCHOPATH!!!!
And Teddy, this author destroyed him with her horrible pacing/timing!! Teddy was a fucking drama queen ... and instead of jumping with glee and THEN demanding answers, when he finds out the man he loves is ALIVE, he decides to throw a tantrum because he was supposed to believe Riordan was dead for the sting to work!! I mean for fuck's sake, the man you thought was dead is ALIVE, and all you can do is throw a fucking 2 year old tantrum?!!? I wanted to smack Teddy HARD!!!!
ALSO - the writing ... this book needed A LOT of editing, and there are subtle jumps in the storyline where the author just paraphrases important moments for the reader, and it just smack of lazy and sloppy writing!! This book did NOT work for me and I didn't find it to be a success at all!!
I WILL continue with the next book because I anticipate the next to be much better, I'm willing to give this author a chance, and I'm intrigued by Bill's story, as well as Black's [separately of course, as they won't be a couple]!! We shall see what I decide where this author is concerned but I'll keep an open mind for this series for now!! Again, we shall see!!
Note: This review is about THIS book, not about the author as a whole! I know the author is new to writing and so I'm willing to give the benefit of the doubt for now with upcoming books, just to see how this author finds her footing! Though I HAVE to be honest about this book, I haven't parted ways with this author yet [if I do], because it's clear she so genuinely wants to succeed at this [plus, she's so sweet about it], and I'm willing to give her a chance :-)! So again, we shall see!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2018
I was fascinated with the hero, Teddy who is a professional hugger and also a part time gamer. Despite the blurb mentioning the other hero, Riordan being an assassin, this is not a suspenseful or action-packed story, at least not in the beginning. When I found out that Riordan's sister basically hired a live-in companion for him, I know that this should be treated as some sort of romcom, right? Their first meeting was awkward and understandably so. Teddy is such a sweetheart though, and Riordan just can't help himself but succumb to Teddy's charm. But how will they get their fairytale ending because it seems like Riordan was facing some issue with his work.
The second half of the book switched gear to focus more on Riordan's organization problem with a mole and of course Teddy can be a possible target and might end up as collateral damage. There is a lot going on but most of it happened behind the scene and basically, there are just a lot of ongoing 'discussion'. I find that what Riordan did at the end was unforgivable because that lie was huge! Is a big fucking deal. Anyway, I wanted this to end with a HEA, so the grovelling kinda works although I wish for something even more touching than that.
The second half of the book switched gear to focus more on Riordan's organization problem with a mole and of course Teddy can be a possible target and might end up as collateral damage. There is a lot going on but most of it happened behind the scene and basically, there are just a lot of ongoing 'discussion'. I find that what Riordan did at the end was unforgivable because that lie was huge! Is a big fucking deal. Anyway, I wanted this to end with a HEA, so the grovelling kinda works although I wish for something even more touching than that.
April 1, 2018
Looks like a second book for Davidson King is continuing on with the tight writing and strong
characterization from the first book and I think this book is on par with the first book.
It takes a lot to make a real, true antihero sympathetic enough to be a romantic lead that we can get behind. Balancing the softer side with the darkest side is a tightrope that isn't easy. In this book like the last one, she doesn't quite hit the mark.
It was a little convoluted and it felt really, really forced when she described horrible ways that Riordan had killed people. Like the last book, trying to make Riordan equal parts lovable and terrible didn't really work out well in this book. I just could never see Riordan as a killer, even though she tried hard to make us see it. On top of that, making it something a guy like Teddy could embrace didn't quite come together either.
It was a good story and I like the secondary characters. I'm interested to see where she goes with this series.
characterization from the first book and I think this book is on par with the first book.
It takes a lot to make a real, true antihero sympathetic enough to be a romantic lead that we can get behind. Balancing the softer side with the darkest side is a tightrope that isn't easy. In this book like the last one, she doesn't quite hit the mark.
It was a little convoluted and it felt really, really forced when she described horrible ways that Riordan had killed people. Like the last book, trying to make Riordan equal parts lovable and terrible didn't really work out well in this book. I just could never see Riordan as a killer, even though she tried hard to make us see it. On top of that, making it something a guy like Teddy could embrace didn't quite come together either.
It was a good story and I like the secondary characters. I'm interested to see where she goes with this series.
December 6, 2018
OK, so when I read the blurb, I had mixed feelings about whether I would actually like this book and the characters, or not. I was really nervous because I absolutely completely fell head over heels in love with the first book, “Snow Falling”, and those characters in the Haven Hart universe. But, OMG, I am so glad I pushed past my reservations and read this book because it was AWESOME!!! I really liked this book; all the characters and the story and just about everything worked for me. I literally did not put it down until I was done (even when I should have actually been working and not reading), it was just that good.
Riordan is a gruff, brash and pretty stoic assassin, which is probably to be expected with his profession. After his last hit went wrong his family (who obviously don’t know what he really does for a living) decides that he needs more hugs and happiness in his life to bring him out of his unhappy depression. That’s where Teddy comes in…
Teddy hugs people for a living (like, how can I get that job?!? I could totally do that job in real life, lol). He also reviews video games and is kind of dorky and adorable. He is super likeable and mellow and just radiates happiness in everything he does. When he takes on a month-long “companionship” role to make Riordan’s family happy, that is when his life, and things, get interesting.
I freaking loved these two men together. That they have an obvious pull to each other but that they push on their connection as hard as possible - because neither of them really wants to like the other - makes their dynamics fascinating to me. Teddy was funny, and there were a few times that I caught myself laughing out loud at the ridiculous things he did, ’cause do people really act like that?!?! And OK, so I kind of had an idea of who the “bad guy” was before it was actually revealed but that did not in any way take away from the story or give away what actually happened towards the end, I was fully invested in this story from start to finish.
I would also like to add that I am really glad the author gave us more of Snow in this story as well; it was nice to see that he and Teddy were friends and that Snow really had his back through everything, no questions asked.
This book was great, and I am definitely checking out the next in this series no matter who the characters are and what the blurb says. Two amazing 5* books in a row from this author are enough for me to purchase the next few, without even looking at them first.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Riordan is a gruff, brash and pretty stoic assassin, which is probably to be expected with his profession. After his last hit went wrong his family (who obviously don’t know what he really does for a living) decides that he needs more hugs and happiness in his life to bring him out of his unhappy depression. That’s where Teddy comes in…
Teddy hugs people for a living (like, how can I get that job?!? I could totally do that job in real life, lol). He also reviews video games and is kind of dorky and adorable. He is super likeable and mellow and just radiates happiness in everything he does. When he takes on a month-long “companionship” role to make Riordan’s family happy, that is when his life, and things, get interesting.
I freaking loved these two men together. That they have an obvious pull to each other but that they push on their connection as hard as possible - because neither of them really wants to like the other - makes their dynamics fascinating to me. Teddy was funny, and there were a few times that I caught myself laughing out loud at the ridiculous things he did, ’cause do people really act like that?!?! And OK, so I kind of had an idea of who the “bad guy” was before it was actually revealed but that did not in any way take away from the story or give away what actually happened towards the end, I was fully invested in this story from start to finish.
I would also like to add that I am really glad the author gave us more of Snow in this story as well; it was nice to see that he and Teddy were friends and that Snow really had his back through everything, no questions asked.
This book was great, and I am definitely checking out the next in this series no matter who the characters are and what the blurb says. Two amazing 5* books in a row from this author are enough for me to purchase the next few, without even looking at them first.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
November 26, 2024
Teddy bunny hugging the darkness out of Riordan and his 'assassin shit'. 😂🥰
Black's team was a good addition to this installment, connecting Teddy through Snow, and then Chris. I look forward to Bill and Mace, and Jones and Lee's stories (I hope those are future pairings).
Black's team was a good addition to this installment, connecting Teddy through Snow, and then Chris. I look forward to Bill and Mace, and Jones and Lee's stories (I hope those are future pairings).
March 29, 2018
3.5 Stars
I haven’t yet read Ms. King’s debut novel but I have a Pavlovian response to the word “assassin” in a blurb and had to read this. The idea of a professional hugger as his love interest was intriguing too. I liked the characters quite a bit, even when I wasn’t totally sold on the plot but the author did make disparate choices in characters work well together. Riordan is a killer with a conscience, sort of, and the author did a good job of presenting him that way. Talk of gruesome killing methods was often followed by scenes of fraternal and parental devotion. He’s a hard case for a tender-hearted and clueless Teddy, who tries to resist falling head-over-heels for the sad tough-guy. I have never heard of a job like his although I’m sure it exists and the benefits of touch and companionship were explained well, giving Teddy’s profession validity.
The plot became believable, absurd, silly, thrilling and heartbreaking all at the same time. Teddy’s innocent inclusion of a team of assassins in Riordan’s circle of friends was one humorous plot device, while setting the scene for danger later in the story. The first half did move along too slowly for me. It allowed room to expand on Riordan and Teddy’s building relationship and add detail to the secondary characters but still felt dragged out until the action finally picked up speed. Parts of the plot also seemed to skip over logic, some of the characters motivations not quite hanging together. I took it as a part of literary license, since it was still fun and got quite exciting in parts. It certainly wasn’t the dark, moody sort of book I’m used to reading with assassins as protagonists and I appreciated the lighter touch.
The book worked just fine as a stand-alone, even though Christopher and Snow, from book one, play a large role. I will go back and read their story for sure and I would be interested to see the next couple to be featured. For an original premise in a love story, with a seasoning of hard edged action and a serving of angst, this is a good choice.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
I haven’t yet read Ms. King’s debut novel but I have a Pavlovian response to the word “assassin” in a blurb and had to read this. The idea of a professional hugger as his love interest was intriguing too. I liked the characters quite a bit, even when I wasn’t totally sold on the plot but the author did make disparate choices in characters work well together. Riordan is a killer with a conscience, sort of, and the author did a good job of presenting him that way. Talk of gruesome killing methods was often followed by scenes of fraternal and parental devotion. He’s a hard case for a tender-hearted and clueless Teddy, who tries to resist falling head-over-heels for the sad tough-guy. I have never heard of a job like his although I’m sure it exists and the benefits of touch and companionship were explained well, giving Teddy’s profession validity.
The plot became believable, absurd, silly, thrilling and heartbreaking all at the same time. Teddy’s innocent inclusion of a team of assassins in Riordan’s circle of friends was one humorous plot device, while setting the scene for danger later in the story. The first half did move along too slowly for me. It allowed room to expand on Riordan and Teddy’s building relationship and add detail to the secondary characters but still felt dragged out until the action finally picked up speed. Parts of the plot also seemed to skip over logic, some of the characters motivations not quite hanging together. I took it as a part of literary license, since it was still fun and got quite exciting in parts. It certainly wasn’t the dark, moody sort of book I’m used to reading with assassins as protagonists and I appreciated the lighter touch.
The book worked just fine as a stand-alone, even though Christopher and Snow, from book one, play a large role. I will go back and read their story for sure and I would be interested to see the next couple to be featured. For an original premise in a love story, with a seasoning of hard edged action and a serving of angst, this is a good choice.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
February 22, 2020
“A hug is always the right size.”
—Winnie the Pooh
Reviewed on Feb 22, 2020
So glad, I listened my book buddy Lorraine , and gave Hug it out a chance. As will have missed out a fun, sexy and sweet read.
I enjoyed reading Teddy and Riordan journey to HEA. I was entertained and engaged from the start , till the last page.
Davidson King second book in her Haven Hart series is a vast and welcome improvement from her first book.
I like the world , and characters around this series ; plan on continue reading it until it's conclusion.
#KU #BooksILove #Read2020
—Winnie the Pooh
Reviewed on Feb 22, 2020
So glad, I listened my book buddy Lorraine , and gave Hug it out a chance. As will have missed out a fun, sexy and sweet read.
I enjoyed reading Teddy and Riordan journey to HEA. I was entertained and engaged from the start , till the last page.
Davidson King second book in her Haven Hart series is a vast and welcome improvement from her first book.
I like the world , and characters around this series ; plan on continue reading it until it's conclusion.
#KU #BooksILove #Read2020
April 11, 2018
4.5 ;)
May 11, 2024
3.5 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
2.5 on the spice scale
April 16, 2018
Riordan Darcy is a troubled man. Trapped in a profession he did not choose and tied to it by a previous crime of passion being held over his head, Riordan is haunted by the things he has done. A professional assassin whose last job mistakenly took the innocent lives of a woman and child, he grapples with the fact that previous to this assignment, he always knew the target he was going after deserved it in some way. Riordan’s sister recognizes that his job is slowly alienating him from her and their parents, and takes steps to get him help.
Teddy Harris is a professional hugger, giving care and comfort to everyone from motherless babies in the hospital to grieving widows. He is a nurturer who enjoys interacting with people who are in need. When his services are gifted to Riordan, he reluctantly takes the job, thinking the man is a government operative who cannot speak of his job. While the two get off to a rocky start, a certain chemistry develops and, despite his attempting to keep their interactions professional, Teddy becomes physically involved with Riordan only to have an emotional attachment develop soon after.
However, the organization Riordan works for has got a traitor in its midst, and every one of the team is in danger. Teddy, by association, is now a target as well. Riordan is going to have to come clean about his job and risk alienating the sweet man he has grown to care for deeply. Not only that but Teddy will need to know he is the potential target of a lethal assassin.
Hug It Out is the second novel in Davidson King’s Haven Hart Universe series. With Snow and his husband taking a fairly important role in this novel, it would behoove you to read the first book, Snow Falling, in order to get the maximum enjoyment out of this one. Having said that, I could be convinced to call this one a standalone as well, for the author does a great job of giving some of the needed background on the returning characters. Also, please be aware this review may contain a few spoilers if you haven’t read the initial story in the series.
Unlike Snow, Teddy is a very innocent man with no past experiences of violence or abuse like Snow endured. This is important to note, because it definitely impacted my response to the idea that Teddy could fall in love with an assassin who was known for some very violent behavior when it came to taking a trophy from each of his kills. In fact, the description of Riordan’s method of killing along with a fairly comprehensive list of how the other team members killed was a particularly gruesome aspect to this novel.
I grappled with how Teddy seemed to readily accept Riordan’s occupation. I get that he killed really nasty bad guys, but until two innocent lives were involved, he seemed to take it in stride. For someone like Teddy, who was incredibly sweet and empathetic, it was a pretty big stretch to see him so easily involve himself in a relationship with Riordan and barely grapple with the misgivings dating a murderer would understandably provoke. It felt like any hesitancy on Teddy’s part was quickly glossed over in the interest of keeping the story moving. That really gave me pause on more than one occasion while reading this book. However, there was no denying the incredible chemistry between these two guys, and that is a sure sign this author knows how to write romance. Also, while I might have figured out the mole fairly quickly, I do think the mystery element of the story was solid. The book was action packed from the get go, and I really enjoyed how King pulled in previous cast members like Snow and his husband, Christopher Manos, and tied them to the story so seamlessly.
I did enjoy this novel, but I can’t help wish that somehow more focus was put on the idea that Riordan was trapped in a life that began under the threat of blackmail. I also wished that he didn’t seem to relish his kills, as evidenced by the way in which he proved their deaths by taking a rather gruesome trophy from each victim. I felt it would have been more reasonable to understand Teddy’s sometimes blind affections if Riordan were a bit more tortured and troubled by his profession. There was definitely some of that in the story, but I just felt it wasn’t quite enough with Teddy being such an innocent foil to Riordan’s violent nature.
Despite my reservations, it doesn’t take away from the fact that Davidson King is a solid writer. Her stories are entertaining and really well done. Hug It Out was an intense nail-biter of a mystery, coupled with a lovely romance marked by tenderness and forgiveness. I look forward to the next story in this series.
Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach
Teddy Harris is a professional hugger, giving care and comfort to everyone from motherless babies in the hospital to grieving widows. He is a nurturer who enjoys interacting with people who are in need. When his services are gifted to Riordan, he reluctantly takes the job, thinking the man is a government operative who cannot speak of his job. While the two get off to a rocky start, a certain chemistry develops and, despite his attempting to keep their interactions professional, Teddy becomes physically involved with Riordan only to have an emotional attachment develop soon after.
However, the organization Riordan works for has got a traitor in its midst, and every one of the team is in danger. Teddy, by association, is now a target as well. Riordan is going to have to come clean about his job and risk alienating the sweet man he has grown to care for deeply. Not only that but Teddy will need to know he is the potential target of a lethal assassin.
Hug It Out is the second novel in Davidson King’s Haven Hart Universe series. With Snow and his husband taking a fairly important role in this novel, it would behoove you to read the first book, Snow Falling, in order to get the maximum enjoyment out of this one. Having said that, I could be convinced to call this one a standalone as well, for the author does a great job of giving some of the needed background on the returning characters. Also, please be aware this review may contain a few spoilers if you haven’t read the initial story in the series.
Unlike Snow, Teddy is a very innocent man with no past experiences of violence or abuse like Snow endured. This is important to note, because it definitely impacted my response to the idea that Teddy could fall in love with an assassin who was known for some very violent behavior when it came to taking a trophy from each of his kills. In fact, the description of Riordan’s method of killing along with a fairly comprehensive list of how the other team members killed was a particularly gruesome aspect to this novel.
I grappled with how Teddy seemed to readily accept Riordan’s occupation. I get that he killed really nasty bad guys, but until two innocent lives were involved, he seemed to take it in stride. For someone like Teddy, who was incredibly sweet and empathetic, it was a pretty big stretch to see him so easily involve himself in a relationship with Riordan and barely grapple with the misgivings dating a murderer would understandably provoke. It felt like any hesitancy on Teddy’s part was quickly glossed over in the interest of keeping the story moving. That really gave me pause on more than one occasion while reading this book. However, there was no denying the incredible chemistry between these two guys, and that is a sure sign this author knows how to write romance. Also, while I might have figured out the mole fairly quickly, I do think the mystery element of the story was solid. The book was action packed from the get go, and I really enjoyed how King pulled in previous cast members like Snow and his husband, Christopher Manos, and tied them to the story so seamlessly.
I did enjoy this novel, but I can’t help wish that somehow more focus was put on the idea that Riordan was trapped in a life that began under the threat of blackmail. I also wished that he didn’t seem to relish his kills, as evidenced by the way in which he proved their deaths by taking a rather gruesome trophy from each victim. I felt it would have been more reasonable to understand Teddy’s sometimes blind affections if Riordan were a bit more tortured and troubled by his profession. There was definitely some of that in the story, but I just felt it wasn’t quite enough with Teddy being such an innocent foil to Riordan’s violent nature.
Despite my reservations, it doesn’t take away from the fact that Davidson King is a solid writer. Her stories are entertaining and really well done. Hug It Out was an intense nail-biter of a mystery, coupled with a lovely romance marked by tenderness and forgiveness. I look forward to the next story in this series.
Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach
June 27, 2019
Just wow.
Seriously, a professional hugger & a professional assassin fall in love! Yeah, they do and it’s freaking adorable.
Snow and Christopher from Snow Falling and even Bill are here too.
There is a bit of violence here but mostly heartbreak, and it is devastating but we do get our HEA, well... yeah it is a Happily Ever After.
Seriously, a professional hugger & a professional assassin fall in love! Yeah, they do and it’s freaking adorable.
Snow and Christopher from Snow Falling and even Bill are here too.
There is a bit of violence here but mostly heartbreak, and it is devastating but we do get our HEA, well... yeah it is a Happily Ever After.
February 24, 2021
Questa è una serie davvero speciale ❤️
Dolcezza che scalda il cuore in equilibrio perfetto con azione e suspense. Un connubio perfetto per una storia coinvolgente dalle emozioni avvolgenti.
Protagonisti accattivanti e particolari dalle mille sfaccettature che conquistano e a cui è impossibile non affezionarsi❤️
Aspetto con trepidazione il terzo 🎉🎉🎉
Dolcezza che scalda il cuore in equilibrio perfetto con azione e suspense. Un connubio perfetto per una storia coinvolgente dalle emozioni avvolgenti.
Protagonisti accattivanti e particolari dalle mille sfaccettature che conquistano e a cui è impossibile non affezionarsi❤️
Aspetto con trepidazione il terzo 🎉🎉🎉
April 13, 2019
3.75 stars
Aside from some glaring plot holes, I actually liked the premise of this. A professional cuddler and an assassin was kind of brilliant. Teddy was a bit of a Marty Sue but I think that was sort of the point of him but he also had very little self preservation so that also sort of put him on the TSTL spectrum. I still liked him though. Riordan was well...kind of lovable psycho, I guess? He was a assassin that had a code of conduct but also took people's heads after torturing them some times. It was kind of gruesome.
I am enjoying the series because the stories are interesting and the characters engaging. I would definitely recommend the first two in the series so far.
Aside from some glaring plot holes, I actually liked the premise of this. A professional cuddler and an assassin was kind of brilliant. Teddy was a bit of a Marty Sue but I think that was sort of the point of him but he also had very little self preservation so that also sort of put him on the TSTL spectrum. I still liked him though. Riordan was well...kind of lovable psycho, I guess? He was a assassin that had a code of conduct but also took people's heads after torturing them some times. It was kind of gruesome.
I am enjoying the series because the stories are interesting and the characters engaging. I would definitely recommend the first two in the series so far.
July 1, 2019
What a story. Thrilling, suspenseful, and full of action, betrayals and more. I think my only complaint for me personally, is I don't like how Snow's voice is portrayed. Other than that, it's a great story and narrated well.
January 2, 2019
2nd read 11-5-18
I LOVE Teddy!!!! I forgot how much of an asshole Riordan is. I almost think Teddy deserves better, but he kind of redeemed himself.
1st Read 8-10-18
This one took me longer to get into because Riordan was an asshole. I LOVED Teddy though and his fierceness to protect himself and his business. He didn't care what people thought of what he did for a living. He believed in it and took pride in it.
I don't know why Riordan changed his mind to give Teddy a chance, but I'm glad he did. I LOVED how Teddy
I want more of this series!!
I LOVE Teddy!!!! I forgot how much of an asshole Riordan is. I almost think Teddy deserves better, but he kind of redeemed himself.
1st Read 8-10-18
This one took me longer to get into because Riordan was an asshole. I LOVED Teddy though and his fierceness to protect himself and his business. He didn't care what people thought of what he did for a living. He believed in it and took pride in it.
I don't know why Riordan changed his mind to give Teddy a chance, but I'm glad he did. I LOVED how Teddy
I want more of this series!!
July 20, 2021
Reread/relisten
Same thoughts as before, now on to Mace and Bill!
3-3.5 stars
compared to the first book i didn't like this one as much. I think it was the way the Riordan and Teddy had their falling outs didn't work with me. I think that it was handled not how i thought it should. But overall it was cute, Teddy was such a sweet character I really enjoyed reading about him and seeing Snow and Christopher making a cameo was a highlight!
Now Bills book and I am pumped!
Same thoughts as before, now on to Mace and Bill!
3-3.5 stars
compared to the first book i didn't like this one as much. I think it was the way the Riordan and Teddy had their falling outs didn't work with me. I think that it was handled not how i thought it should. But overall it was cute, Teddy was such a sweet character I really enjoyed reading about him and seeing Snow and Christopher making a cameo was a highlight!
Now Bills book and I am pumped!
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