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Forged in Flood
From best-selling author Dahlia Donovan comes a new witty novel between three very different men. With drama, emotional turmoil, and hilarious banter, be prepared to be swept away in Dahlia’s British M/M/M romance.
When one drunken night forever scars three best friends, will they ever find a way to pick up the pieces?
Eaten up with guilt, Ivan Black spends ten years hiding from the world. He retreats to his family forge to wallow in misery. Alone. So lonely his heart aches with it.
Wesley Cook and Rolland Spence have been together since university. They struggle through the physical scars of the accident, building a life in the ruins of their dreams. They find happiness but continue to miss their angry ginger Viking—Ivan.
In all the anger of wasted years, the three men find a way to forge a relationship as hot as the fires in the smithy.
Forged in Flood is a British contemporary M/M/M romance. With heartache, hot men with foul mouths, and plenty of heat, enjoy getting to know Ivan, Wesley, and Roland.
When one drunken night forever scars three best friends, will they ever find a way to pick up the pieces?
Eaten up with guilt, Ivan Black spends ten years hiding from the world. He retreats to his family forge to wallow in misery. Alone. So lonely his heart aches with it.
Wesley Cook and Rolland Spence have been together since university. They struggle through the physical scars of the accident, building a life in the ruins of their dreams. They find happiness but continue to miss their angry ginger Viking—Ivan.
In all the anger of wasted years, the three men find a way to forge a relationship as hot as the fires in the smithy.
Forged in Flood is a British contemporary M/M/M romance. With heartache, hot men with foul mouths, and plenty of heat, enjoy getting to know Ivan, Wesley, and Roland.
130 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2018
About the author
Dahlia Donovan
43 books730 followersDahlia Donovan wrote her first romance series after a crazy dream about shifters and damsels in distress. She prefers irreverent humour and unconventional characters. An autistic and occasional hermit, her life wouldn’t be complete without her husband and her massive collection of books and video games.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
August 7, 2018
M/M/M romance is something I always jump at the chance to read (I’m always intrigued by the dynamics of a relationship where there are more than two people), and stories set in the UK even more so. I’d enjoyed the books I’ve read in this author’s Sin Bin series, so once I read the synopsis for Forged in Flood of course it immediately went onto my TBR list.
The relationship between Ivan, Wes, and Rolly goes back a ways, back to their school days when they were the best of friends and everything was more than wonderful in their world and looking forward into their futures. One very bad decision changes all of that, though as readers we’re just told of the events and their consequences. In my opinion, I think a prologue or extended flashback scene or chapter would have helped to better drive home the close friendship these men had before the accident, and the extreme impact it had on that friendship afterward.
Ivan’s surly attitude and continuing insistence on stepping away from their friendship made it particularly difficult to see these three men coming back together in an intimate capacity given the length of the book (it’s a pretty quick read at around 130 pages or so). While Wes and Rolly are already together and have been for a while, to me Ivan continued to feel like a third wheel even once reconciliation was on the horizon. I don’t think there was enough time to fully reestablish the emotional connection between them to what it once was…though the same can’t be said for the physical one.
Given the length of the story, the author did set the stage for the beginnings of the reconnection between the three men, and I did like the setting and circumstances in which the characters found themselves. I also liked that Ivan was a blacksmith—it’s a unique profession in a contemporary romance; I’m more used to seeing that in a fantasy or historical book.
Forged in Flood gets 3.5 stars from me—if there had been more depth to the story in terms of the characters’ history and the development of their tentative relationship in the present, I would have gone higher in my rating. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
The relationship between Ivan, Wes, and Rolly goes back a ways, back to their school days when they were the best of friends and everything was more than wonderful in their world and looking forward into their futures. One very bad decision changes all of that, though as readers we’re just told of the events and their consequences. In my opinion, I think a prologue or extended flashback scene or chapter would have helped to better drive home the close friendship these men had before the accident, and the extreme impact it had on that friendship afterward.
Ivan’s surly attitude and continuing insistence on stepping away from their friendship made it particularly difficult to see these three men coming back together in an intimate capacity given the length of the book (it’s a pretty quick read at around 130 pages or so). While Wes and Rolly are already together and have been for a while, to me Ivan continued to feel like a third wheel even once reconciliation was on the horizon. I don’t think there was enough time to fully reestablish the emotional connection between them to what it once was…though the same can’t be said for the physical one.
Given the length of the story, the author did set the stage for the beginnings of the reconnection between the three men, and I did like the setting and circumstances in which the characters found themselves. I also liked that Ivan was a blacksmith—it’s a unique profession in a contemporary romance; I’m more used to seeing that in a fantasy or historical book.
Forged in Flood gets 3.5 stars from me—if there had been more depth to the story in terms of the characters’ history and the development of their tentative relationship in the present, I would have gone higher in my rating. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
July 21, 2018
I had the honour of beta reading this book, so I was gifted my copy of this book.
Ten years ago, a stupid mistake nearly cost 3 young men their lives. It left them all scarred in a multitude of ways. Ivan has shut himself off from everyone, working in his beloved forge, while Rolland and Wes have taken it upon themselves to educate the youth of today on the errors of drink driving. But Wes and Rolly have had enough of waiting for Ivan, their Viking to get over his self inflicted guilt. And they choose the night of the worst flooding in living memory to make Ivan see sense.
This is NOT part of the Sin Bin series, but there are some cross-over characters, mainly Sarah and her husband Remi. You don't NEED to read them, but you SHOULD!
I loved this! I've loved almost all of Ms Donovan's work, and each and every time, the new book becomes my new favourite, and this is no exception!
Ivan makes this book, he really does. His struggle dealing with his guilt. His struggle dealing with becoming like his namesake of a father, and him not really wanting to. Dealing with the destruction of his forge and his home. Dealing with the after effects of the original accident, and a second one too.
But mainly, because watching him deal with his ever growing attraction to Wes and Rolly, and his NEED to be with them, is a joy to behold! He doesn't want it, not at first but they are persistent buggers now they have decided to pursue Ivan, rather than waiting for him to come to them.
There are some lighter moments, written only in a way Ms Donovan can. Her boys do like to play with their food and these three are no exception to that rule. I don't think I can ever look at a pot of honey in the same way, every again!
Because I read it in one sitting, because it made me cry in places, because it made me laugh out loud in others (and not many books can do that with me when I'm reading!) and just bloody well because . . . . .
5 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
July 18, 2018
This was a first read of this author for me. I love m/m and m/m/m even more.
This is a story of three friends who were involved in a drunken accident. Ivan was driving and blames himself. He can't stand to see his friends who were injured too because of the guilt he feels. He hides himself away and becomes a recluse at his family's Forge. Living alone and being mean to anyone who tries to get close to him.
Rolly and Wes remain friends and much more. The relationship they have is great but they always feel like there's a piece missing. Ivan.
The two lovers decide to finally do something about it. Over the years they try to get in touch with him to no avail so they decide to drive out to the forge to face him head on. They're determined not to take no for an answer. They want him back in their lives and hopefully their bed.
I wanted to love this book. I think it had all the ingredients to be an amazing story but it just fell short for me.
I wanted more and sometimes less. I wanted more history. I think it needed more setting up. There was barely any past story and that's what the context of their love for Ivan was based on the reason they were chasing him but we never saw any of it. This to me made it impossible to feel any connection to them. So i didn't believe them.
The less was Ivan being miserable. I mean i get the grumpy humor of it but it was just too much. I barely saw any nice in him. I didn't hate him but i didn't like him really either.
I liked the bit's about Ivan's father. I thought that was a good side plot and i think that's probably what kept me reading. I also really liked Ivan's sister too she was quite funny in parts.
There are quite a few bits i like but unfortunately they didn't override the bits i didn't. I didn't heat up much at the love scenes, i absolutely didn't feel any connection between them apart from mates, and there wasn't much of a storyline but the flooding and Ivan's dad.
Unfortunately this book wasn't for me. I did finish it because it was ok but i just didn't get any feels out of it good or bad.
3 stars
A is for Alpha B is for Books
This is a story of three friends who were involved in a drunken accident. Ivan was driving and blames himself. He can't stand to see his friends who were injured too because of the guilt he feels. He hides himself away and becomes a recluse at his family's Forge. Living alone and being mean to anyone who tries to get close to him.
Rolly and Wes remain friends and much more. The relationship they have is great but they always feel like there's a piece missing. Ivan.
The two lovers decide to finally do something about it. Over the years they try to get in touch with him to no avail so they decide to drive out to the forge to face him head on. They're determined not to take no for an answer. They want him back in their lives and hopefully their bed.
I wanted to love this book. I think it had all the ingredients to be an amazing story but it just fell short for me.
I wanted more and sometimes less. I wanted more history. I think it needed more setting up. There was barely any past story and that's what the context of their love for Ivan was based on the reason they were chasing him but we never saw any of it. This to me made it impossible to feel any connection to them. So i didn't believe them.
The less was Ivan being miserable. I mean i get the grumpy humor of it but it was just too much. I barely saw any nice in him. I didn't hate him but i didn't like him really either.
I liked the bit's about Ivan's father. I thought that was a good side plot and i think that's probably what kept me reading. I also really liked Ivan's sister too she was quite funny in parts.
There are quite a few bits i like but unfortunately they didn't override the bits i didn't. I didn't heat up much at the love scenes, i absolutely didn't feel any connection between them apart from mates, and there wasn't much of a storyline but the flooding and Ivan's dad.
Unfortunately this book wasn't for me. I did finish it because it was ok but i just didn't get any feels out of it good or bad.
3 stars
A is for Alpha B is for Books
May 30, 2020
Actually a great book. Wish there was either more or a sequel.
Read
April 22, 2019DNF al 50%
No me convence ésta escritora. No consigue que empatice con los MC y no acabo de enganchar la historia del todo. A lo mejor es problema mio, pero es que para mi no tiene "pies ni cabeza"
No me convence ésta escritora. No consigue que empatice con los MC y no acabo de enganchar la historia del todo. A lo mejor es problema mio, pero es que para mi no tiene "pies ni cabeza"
September 14, 2020
Fell flat for me. Rolly was especially immature and Ivan was annoying with all his reluctance.
July 14, 2018
3.5 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 14, 2018
When one drunken night forever scars three best friends, will they ever find a way to pick up the pieces?
Eaten up with guilt, Ivan Black spends ten years hiding from the world. He retreats to his family forge to wallow in misery. Alone. So lonely his heart aches with it.
Wesley Cook and Rolland Spence have been together since university. They struggle through the physical scars of the accident, building a life in the ruins of their dreams. They find happiness but continue to miss their angry ginger Viking—Ivan.
In all the anger of wasted years, the three men find a way to forge a relationship as hot as the fires in the smithy.
Forged in Flood is a British contemporary M/M/M romance. With heartache, hot men with foul mouths, and plenty of heat, enjoy getting to know Ivan, Wesley, and Roland.
•••••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars--FORGED IN FLOOD by Dahlia Donovan is a contemporary, adult, M/M/M erotic, romance story line focusing on three friends-Wesley Cook, Rolland Spence, and Ivan Black- whose lives spiralled out of control ten years earlier following an horrific drunk, driving incident that left each man emotionally and physically scarred but none more so than Ivan Black, the driver of the car that destroyed their lives.
NOTE: FORGED IN FLOOD is an erotic romance story line with M/M/M/ sexual scenarios.
Told from three third person perspectives (Wes, Rolland and Ivan) FORGED IN FLOOD focuses on the rekindling relationship, second chance romance between blacksmith Ivan Black, and podcasters Wesley Cook and Rolland Spence. Ten years earlier, the three university rugby stars, had fallen in love with one another but a night of drinking followed by a drunk driving accident saw Ivan Black run from the men who had stolen his heart. Fast forward to present day wherein a freak rainstorm has threatened to wash away everything Ivan holds dear including the memories he so desperately tries to remember. Enter Wesley Cook and Rolland Spence-Ivan’s former lovers, and the men who refuse to allow their mate to wither and die.
FORGED IN FLOOD is a quick read that follows the on-going volatile and emotional breakdown of Ivan Black as he is unable to come to terms with the guilt from the accident that nearly took their lives. Locked away, far from family and friends, Ivan struggles with his inability to recall the smallest events but does daily battles with the memories of the night that destroyed them all. Wes and Rolland’s continuing efforts to bring Ivan back into the fold is once again met with caustic rejection from the man that they love.
The wonderful secondary and supporting characters include Ivan’s brother George, and his sister Sarah, as well as Sarah’s over-protective husband Remi. The family knows Ivan misses the men that he loves but they too, are unable, to pull Ivan from his self-imposed purgatory.
FORGED IN FLOOD is a story of second chances; of one man’s battle to forgive himself; and two men who are desperate to reconnect with the man that they love The premise engaging and thought-provoking; the characters are dynamic and animated.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 14, 2018
When one drunken night forever scars three best friends, will they ever find a way to pick up the pieces?
Eaten up with guilt, Ivan Black spends ten years hiding from the world. He retreats to his family forge to wallow in misery. Alone. So lonely his heart aches with it.
Wesley Cook and Rolland Spence have been together since university. They struggle through the physical scars of the accident, building a life in the ruins of their dreams. They find happiness but continue to miss their angry ginger Viking—Ivan.
In all the anger of wasted years, the three men find a way to forge a relationship as hot as the fires in the smithy.
Forged in Flood is a British contemporary M/M/M romance. With heartache, hot men with foul mouths, and plenty of heat, enjoy getting to know Ivan, Wesley, and Roland.
•••••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars--FORGED IN FLOOD by Dahlia Donovan is a contemporary, adult, M/M/M erotic, romance story line focusing on three friends-Wesley Cook, Rolland Spence, and Ivan Black- whose lives spiralled out of control ten years earlier following an horrific drunk, driving incident that left each man emotionally and physically scarred but none more so than Ivan Black, the driver of the car that destroyed their lives.
NOTE: FORGED IN FLOOD is an erotic romance story line with M/M/M/ sexual scenarios.
Told from three third person perspectives (Wes, Rolland and Ivan) FORGED IN FLOOD focuses on the rekindling relationship, second chance romance between blacksmith Ivan Black, and podcasters Wesley Cook and Rolland Spence. Ten years earlier, the three university rugby stars, had fallen in love with one another but a night of drinking followed by a drunk driving accident saw Ivan Black run from the men who had stolen his heart. Fast forward to present day wherein a freak rainstorm has threatened to wash away everything Ivan holds dear including the memories he so desperately tries to remember. Enter Wesley Cook and Rolland Spence-Ivan’s former lovers, and the men who refuse to allow their mate to wither and die.
FORGED IN FLOOD is a quick read that follows the on-going volatile and emotional breakdown of Ivan Black as he is unable to come to terms with the guilt from the accident that nearly took their lives. Locked away, far from family and friends, Ivan struggles with his inability to recall the smallest events but does daily battles with the memories of the night that destroyed them all. Wes and Rolland’s continuing efforts to bring Ivan back into the fold is once again met with caustic rejection from the man that they love.
The wonderful secondary and supporting characters include Ivan’s brother George, and his sister Sarah, as well as Sarah’s over-protective husband Remi. The family knows Ivan misses the men that he loves but they too, are unable, to pull Ivan from his self-imposed purgatory.
FORGED IN FLOOD is a story of second chances; of one man’s battle to forgive himself; and two men who are desperate to reconnect with the man that they love The premise engaging and thought-provoking; the characters are dynamic and animated.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
July 16, 2018
British romance, ménage, hot men with foul mouths… sign me up! I’ve been tempted by Dahlia Donovan’s work for some time, and Forged in Flood is the first opportunity I’ve had to partake. Boy howdy, if this is any indication, I have to wonder what I’ve been missing.
Ten years ago, Ivan, Roland “Rolly” and Wes, the pride of their university, and rugby stars in the making, lost it all in the blink of an eye. Guilt over that drunken night has found Ivan secluding himself in his family run smithy ever since.
But all that’s about to change, when the two mates he’s refused to acknowledge come banging on his door in the middle of a raging storm, intent on reconciliation and rekindling what they once had. As rising waters cut them off, a flood of emotion rages forth. When Ivan ponders his tiny town, wondering “How the fuck will we ever recover from this?” he may as well be talking about the trios hearts.
Told from each man’s point of view, Dahlia gets right to the heart of what they’ve lost, and what they want. She also shows how they’ve survived, in their own fashions. Ivan through pig-headed stubbornness, Wes as the calm leader who desires so much, and Rolly as the no holds barred, spare no punches, comedic brute.
'Forged in Flood' isn’t deeply emotional or full of angst, but rather a story of acceptance. It’s a fun, light-hearted journey of hope and forgiveness that proves all is not lost, even in grief.
When the flood waters recede, however, their chance at redemption just might trickle away with the tide, unless Ivan realizes that he must revisit more than one painful past, for new paths to be “forged”. As his self-perceived bad luck would have it, the three are forced together again. And between his family, and Rolly and Wes, Ivan is left no choice.
Wes and Rolly have formed a beautiful intimacy from years of togetherness and their familiarity and desire leave no doubt they want to have Ivan rejoin them again. As Rolly thinks to himself, “[He] knew with them all grown up and changed by life, their relationship wouldn’t be the same as it could’ve been. But he had a relentless hope it might still be everything he’d ever imagined.”
Unfortunately, Ivan has suffered more lasting effects than just regret from the event all those years ago, and just when it appears the three men might be able to flow with the changing tide his memory lapses begin to plague him anew. He must accept he’s no longer in this alone. If he can let go of old guilt, and surrender to the second chance right in front of him, he can let his men back into his heart.
Forged in Flood isn’t deeply emotional or full of angst, but rather a story of acceptance. It’s a fun, light-hearted journey of hope and forgiveness that proves all is not lost, even in grief. Three men pick up and move on… as they should. And “moving on” includes a wee bit of fun, via fucking during the middle of a catastrophic flood, a highly entertaining drunken-helium induced conversation, a promiscuous food fight, car sex, and one broken coffee table. Now how’s that for shaping things with heat?
Ten years ago, Ivan, Roland “Rolly” and Wes, the pride of their university, and rugby stars in the making, lost it all in the blink of an eye. Guilt over that drunken night has found Ivan secluding himself in his family run smithy ever since.
But all that’s about to change, when the two mates he’s refused to acknowledge come banging on his door in the middle of a raging storm, intent on reconciliation and rekindling what they once had. As rising waters cut them off, a flood of emotion rages forth. When Ivan ponders his tiny town, wondering “How the fuck will we ever recover from this?” he may as well be talking about the trios hearts.
Told from each man’s point of view, Dahlia gets right to the heart of what they’ve lost, and what they want. She also shows how they’ve survived, in their own fashions. Ivan through pig-headed stubbornness, Wes as the calm leader who desires so much, and Rolly as the no holds barred, spare no punches, comedic brute.
'Forged in Flood' isn’t deeply emotional or full of angst, but rather a story of acceptance. It’s a fun, light-hearted journey of hope and forgiveness that proves all is not lost, even in grief.
When the flood waters recede, however, their chance at redemption just might trickle away with the tide, unless Ivan realizes that he must revisit more than one painful past, for new paths to be “forged”. As his self-perceived bad luck would have it, the three are forced together again. And between his family, and Rolly and Wes, Ivan is left no choice.
Wes and Rolly have formed a beautiful intimacy from years of togetherness and their familiarity and desire leave no doubt they want to have Ivan rejoin them again. As Rolly thinks to himself, “[He] knew with them all grown up and changed by life, their relationship wouldn’t be the same as it could’ve been. But he had a relentless hope it might still be everything he’d ever imagined.”
Unfortunately, Ivan has suffered more lasting effects than just regret from the event all those years ago, and just when it appears the three men might be able to flow with the changing tide his memory lapses begin to plague him anew. He must accept he’s no longer in this alone. If he can let go of old guilt, and surrender to the second chance right in front of him, he can let his men back into his heart.
Forged in Flood isn’t deeply emotional or full of angst, but rather a story of acceptance. It’s a fun, light-hearted journey of hope and forgiveness that proves all is not lost, even in grief. Three men pick up and move on… as they should. And “moving on” includes a wee bit of fun, via fucking during the middle of a catastrophic flood, a highly entertaining drunken-helium induced conversation, a promiscuous food fight, car sex, and one broken coffee table. Now how’s that for shaping things with heat?
January 27, 2020
FORGED IN FLOOD is a standalone novel that is also a crossover (sort of) as it features Sarah and Remi from The Sin Bin series.
Ivan, Wes, and Rolly were all involved in a drunk-driving accident that left them all with permanent problems and scars. Ivan was the one driving, and can't forgive himself for what he did to his friends and lovers. It doesn't help the situation when his problems are exacerbated by his temper, one he inherited from his father. When the rains pour down in Boscastle, they herald the arrival of Wes and Rolly, both determined to bring Ivan back home.
I loved the fact this book has Sarah and Remi in it! Seriously, it was great to read about them, and find more out about Sarah. Loved that bit. I have to say though (and I will probably be in the minority), but Rolly did annoy me for most of the book. I understand where he was coming from, but I personally found him to be a bit much. I preferred it when he toned it down a bit, but that's just me.
The story was well paced, with no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. The characters and their problems were all well thought out and developed. I enjoyed reading this book, and am happy with the HFN ending. I would love to see a reappearance of them in one of Dahlia Donovan's other books to find out if they are still happy and driving each other crazy.
Ivan, Wes, and Rolly were all involved in a drunk-driving accident that left them all with permanent problems and scars. Ivan was the one driving, and can't forgive himself for what he did to his friends and lovers. It doesn't help the situation when his problems are exacerbated by his temper, one he inherited from his father. When the rains pour down in Boscastle, they herald the arrival of Wes and Rolly, both determined to bring Ivan back home.
I loved the fact this book has Sarah and Remi in it! Seriously, it was great to read about them, and find more out about Sarah. Loved that bit. I have to say though (and I will probably be in the minority), but Rolly did annoy me for most of the book. I understand where he was coming from, but I personally found him to be a bit much. I preferred it when he toned it down a bit, but that's just me.
The story was well paced, with no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. The characters and their problems were all well thought out and developed. I enjoyed reading this book, and am happy with the HFN ending. I would love to see a reappearance of them in one of Dahlia Donovan's other books to find out if they are still happy and driving each other crazy.
August 15, 2018
4.5 stars
This is probably one of my favorite short stories I have ever read. There is basically continuous banter and sass and arguments but it is in the best possible way. I did not feel like anything was forced like I usually do in short stories. The characters all knew each other before the book so I think that helped in the relationship being formed authentically.
All three of the MCs, Ivan, Wes, and Rolly are stubborn in different ways. Ivan is broody af and grumpy and an a-hole. Wes is stubborn but kinder and more aware. Rolly is hilarious and arrogant and also an a-hole. So basically, the three of them together is entertaining, to say the least. It is also worth mentioning that while the sex scenes are explicit, they are not as explicit as many I have read but they are HOT. They are rather short, which makes sense for the short book but that does not take away from the hotness.
There are a couple of more emotional topics discussed in the book and I felt those emotions just as strong as the funny and sassy ones that the book displayed. It was easy to connect to all of these characters and want them to be together. This was a great short read!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
This is probably one of my favorite short stories I have ever read. There is basically continuous banter and sass and arguments but it is in the best possible way. I did not feel like anything was forced like I usually do in short stories. The characters all knew each other before the book so I think that helped in the relationship being formed authentically.
All three of the MCs, Ivan, Wes, and Rolly are stubborn in different ways. Ivan is broody af and grumpy and an a-hole. Wes is stubborn but kinder and more aware. Rolly is hilarious and arrogant and also an a-hole. So basically, the three of them together is entertaining, to say the least. It is also worth mentioning that while the sex scenes are explicit, they are not as explicit as many I have read but they are HOT. They are rather short, which makes sense for the short book but that does not take away from the hotness.
There are a couple of more emotional topics discussed in the book and I felt those emotions just as strong as the funny and sassy ones that the book displayed. It was easy to connect to all of these characters and want them to be together. This was a great short read!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
July 1, 2018
Ivan has shut himself off from the world for ten years, after a drunk driving car accident caused him and the two most important men in his life serious injuries. Ruining their hopes for the future. The blame rested solely with him and he couldn't face his guilt. He spent all those years at his forge. Being a blacksmith saved his sanity but it was a lonely existence.
When Rolly and Wes got tired of waiting for Ivan to come to his senses and come back to them, they went to him. In the middle of a flood. Ivan was less than happy to see them. Still unable to reconcile the pain and loss he had caused with the love he felt. They survived the flood, but the question remains. Can Ivan forgive himself and allow these men back into his heart where they belong?
Family issues along with health concerns carry the story along. At times both funny and heartbreaking, it is a story of love's impact on the even the most saddened heart. I enjoyed the book.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
August 14, 2018
Amount of sex 3 / 5
How explicit is the sex scenes 3 / 5
Story 4 / 5
Overall: 4 / 5
Forged in Flood is an MMM second chance romance written by Dahlia Donovan. After an accident in college, Ivan leaves his best friends and moves back to Boscastle, where his family is from. The story begins about 10 years after the accident when Rolly and Wes, drive up to convince Ivan to talk to them. Of course, it’s raining so hard, there is flooding. This results in the three men being trapped together at the Forge, forced to talk about the past.
I enjoyed the banter between the characters, it was often amusing to read, especially since it's written with British vocabulary. Being a second chance romance, I believe there should have been more about their time together in college. The author does explain about the accident, but I just wished for more. I think I could relate to the characters and storyline if I knew how they used to be together.
The story is steamy at times and overall a good story!
*Voluntarily Reviewed a Gifted Copy*
How explicit is the sex scenes 3 / 5
Story 4 / 5
Overall: 4 / 5
Forged in Flood is an MMM second chance romance written by Dahlia Donovan. After an accident in college, Ivan leaves his best friends and moves back to Boscastle, where his family is from. The story begins about 10 years after the accident when Rolly and Wes, drive up to convince Ivan to talk to them. Of course, it’s raining so hard, there is flooding. This results in the three men being trapped together at the Forge, forced to talk about the past.
I enjoyed the banter between the characters, it was often amusing to read, especially since it's written with British vocabulary. Being a second chance romance, I believe there should have been more about their time together in college. The author does explain about the accident, but I just wished for more. I think I could relate to the characters and storyline if I knew how they used to be together.
The story is steamy at times and overall a good story!
*Voluntarily Reviewed a Gifted Copy*
February 9, 2021
I always love Dahlia’s books and this one was different. This is a M/M/M book so if that isn’t your thing this book isn’t for you. Wesley, Rolland, and Ivan meet in school and played together. Then a horrible accident changed everything. Ivan has always blamed himself and left the pair. Now they are going to try and bring him back into the fold. A flood in the town Ivan lives in forces the trio to hash out some of their issues. Can Ivan get over the guilt he feels for the accident and the injuries from it? Can Wesley and Rolland convince him they are all better together? So many emotions in this book. Ivan is faced with his father and the feelings involved there. I love these characters. The book does focus more on Ivan than the other two men. Sometimes love and change come when you least expect it but need it the most. I believe that is what happened in this book. Ivan needed this change and these men and he didn’t even know it. Fanatic read. Great job Dahlia. I look forward to reading more of Dahlia’s book in the future.
July 13, 2018
***CRAZY CAJUN BOOK ADDICTS BLOG***
I like a good M/M book and Forged In Flood was an ok read a little slow in places but still worth reading.
This is an M/M/M and when Ivan is plagued with guilt over something that was just pure change and bad luck! One of a trio he was the one who got behind the wheel after a drinking session, that shattered a promising Rugby career for himself, Rolly and Wes. He came off lightly with injuries but that didn't stop him feeling pain and guilt for years. During a storm classed as the worst in forty years timed well for a reunion as Wes and Rolly showed up, they wanted the trio back together! Friendship, love and passion ensues from the danger of the rising waters brings temperatures rising with all of them.
A new author to me who I wouldn't say I'm disappointed in the book it could have been a little hotter but it was a great storyline.
I like a good M/M book and Forged In Flood was an ok read a little slow in places but still worth reading.
This is an M/M/M and when Ivan is plagued with guilt over something that was just pure change and bad luck! One of a trio he was the one who got behind the wheel after a drinking session, that shattered a promising Rugby career for himself, Rolly and Wes. He came off lightly with injuries but that didn't stop him feeling pain and guilt for years. During a storm classed as the worst in forty years timed well for a reunion as Wes and Rolly showed up, they wanted the trio back together! Friendship, love and passion ensues from the danger of the rising waters brings temperatures rising with all of them.
A new author to me who I wouldn't say I'm disappointed in the book it could have been a little hotter but it was a great storyline.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2018
Ivan has been torturing himself for something that happened years ago. Now he has some issues that he struggles with daily and is also trying his hardest to keep his temper and his families blacksmith open.
Wes and Rolly have been in a relationship for years. However, they both know something/someone is missing to complete their love. They also have issues from the accident that Ivan is still struggling with however, they have overcome their issues. How and will they be able to convince Ivan that he needs to move on?
Overall this was a good book however, it left me wanting more. The authors writing style was good, so was the characters and plot.
*I had the pleasure of reading an ARC*
Wes and Rolly have been in a relationship for years. However, they both know something/someone is missing to complete their love. They also have issues from the accident that Ivan is still struggling with however, they have overcome their issues. How and will they be able to convince Ivan that he needs to move on?
Overall this was a good book however, it left me wanting more. The authors writing style was good, so was the characters and plot.
*I had the pleasure of reading an ARC*
June 30, 2019
I enjoyed this. I didn’t find the ‘hilarious banter’ the blurb promised. There was banter a plenty but mostly I found it based on anger.
Ivan’s anger is the main theme to me - whether it is about historic acts, his father, his head, the situation, it is his anger that drives all other characters. And his acceptance and desire to change, as well as get help, that drives the story.
We are told of the the history the three had and the accident that changed everything, these are facts given. We get very little of the interim. Only now 10 years on, Rolly and Wes want Ivan back. We get snippets of them together but at this point in their journey it is all lust, I’m sure after ops etc the three would settle more.
Ivan’s anger is the main theme to me - whether it is about historic acts, his father, his head, the situation, it is his anger that drives all other characters. And his acceptance and desire to change, as well as get help, that drives the story.
We are told of the the history the three had and the accident that changed everything, these are facts given. We get very little of the interim. Only now 10 years on, Rolly and Wes want Ivan back. We get snippets of them together but at this point in their journey it is all lust, I’m sure after ops etc the three would settle more.
July 15, 2018
Ivan is on a self-imposed pity party after an accident changed his, Wes and Rolly's lives forever. The blacksmith focuses on work and avoids company so he can keep his tempter in check. Wes and Rolly have left him sulk for long enough and are now back to claim their man.
There is the trademark Dahlia Donovan banter these characters that brought a smile as always. The British wit and charm made me feel very much at home. I didn't as though we got a conclusion to Ivan's situation but he did get his HEA. There was certainly plenty of heat, lots of rain along with characters from Donovan's other series to make you feel even more at home.
**Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
There is the trademark Dahlia Donovan banter these characters that brought a smile as always. The British wit and charm made me feel very much at home. I didn't as though we got a conclusion to Ivan's situation but he did get his HEA. There was certainly plenty of heat, lots of rain along with characters from Donovan's other series to make you feel even more at home.
**Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
August 11, 2018
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words review
For the full review, visit https://wp.me/p220KL-emf
From that review: " I've long been a fan of the novels of Dahlia Donovan, by Forged in Fire may be her best story yet. It is a deeply moving love story between three men who lost each other and their chance at major careers in rugby directly after the university. Young men drove drunk and disastrously crashed, rolling the car, ending their triad through grievous injuries and the guilt one still carries to this day. That would be the driver Ivan."
for all our reviews, visit http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
For the full review, visit https://wp.me/p220KL-emf
From that review: " I've long been a fan of the novels of Dahlia Donovan, by Forged in Fire may be her best story yet. It is a deeply moving love story between three men who lost each other and their chance at major careers in rugby directly after the university. Young men drove drunk and disastrously crashed, rolling the car, ending their triad through grievous injuries and the guilt one still carries to this day. That would be the driver Ivan."
for all our reviews, visit http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
May 15, 2020
Well, I'm not quite sure how to rate this book, or if I even liked it, I suppose I did as I laughed here and there, but I was also ticked off and annoyed at times too. Ivan is a hard mc to like, we understand his deep ridden guilt but when friends try so hard to tell him they don't blame him and they want his friendship back, he is just plain nasty to them, brutally mean and nasty. There was so much to-ing and fro-ing between London and Cornwall I was dizzy. BUT, Rolly's idea, at 65%, to make an intervention-type talk between the three of them work is absolutely hilarious, I laughed so hard I had tears running down my face.
July 14, 2018
How do you give someone forgiveness when they refuse to accept it or even forgive themselves? For these guys, you browbeat them until they crack. There are some serious issues addressed in this one and even some danger as they face the oncoming flood, but it's also layered with hilarious banter and the love between all three of them. The story is fast-paced and as expected with this author, it drew me in from the start. The characters are lovable in spite of themselves and the story is a wonderful mix of heartache, love, loss, forgiveness, steam, and humor.
July 14, 2018
This was a story of second chances, in parallel to Dahlia Donovan's Sin Bin Series. It was well written in a style you would expect if you've read any of her other books. There is alot of build up and I found myself yell at the main character to stop being so hard arse and move on.
Three young lovers, their lives crushed ten years earlier after a drunk driving accident. Wes and Rolly never gave up on Ivan coming back to them. Ivan has never forgiven himself, refusing their advances for reconciliation. Can they convince Ivan he is their missing puzzle piece.
Three young lovers, their lives crushed ten years earlier after a drunk driving accident. Wes and Rolly never gave up on Ivan coming back to them. Ivan has never forgiven himself, refusing their advances for reconciliation. Can they convince Ivan he is their missing puzzle piece.
July 10, 2018
This was my first time reading this author so I didn't know what to expect from her. I also had this image in my head that did not happen in the book lol. I figured since its a M/M/M that there would lots of sexy times, I was wrong. Anyway I enjoyed the humor in the book. I also enjoyed the support they gave their friend. They know they need to make things right but they also know Ivan needs some help. This is great book of friendship and realizing what you want in life.
July 12, 2018
This was my first time reading this author so I didn't know what to expect from her. I also had this image in my head that did not happen in the book lol. I figured since its a M/M/M that there would lots of sexy times, I was wrong. Anyway I enjoyed the humor in the book. I also enjoyed the support they gave their friend. They know they need to make things right but they also know Ivan needs some help. This is great book of friendship and realizing what you want in life.
REVIEW BY AMY
REVIEW BY AMY
July 14, 2018
Three friends one drunken night that changed everything... this was a good storyline but for me there was something missing. Not sure what it was as I loved all the characters they all had a loveable quirky flirty banter that had me swooning and laughing at once! I can’t put my finger on the exact thing I couldn’t find that I wanted but I did enjoy the book and I will definitely read from Dahlia again.
July 15, 2018
Totally unexpected but such a good story with three great MCs.
Ivan wasn't even a secondary character from the Sin Bin series but I'm really pleased that Dahlia gave him his own story. His life had been a hard one with the arrogance of youth culminating in a very difficult and painful adulthood/last 10 years but with acceptance of his limitations happiness would be his.
I'm very much looking forward to reading Haka Ever After.
Ivan wasn't even a secondary character from the Sin Bin series but I'm really pleased that Dahlia gave him his own story. His life had been a hard one with the arrogance of youth culminating in a very difficult and painful adulthood/last 10 years but with acceptance of his limitations happiness would be his.
I'm very much looking forward to reading Haka Ever After.
July 17, 2018
Three friends one drunken night that changed everything... this was a good storyline but for me there was something missing. Not sure what it was as I loved all the characters they all had a loveable quirky flirty banter that had me swooning and laughing at once! I can’t put my finger on the exact thing I couldn’t find that I wanted but I did enjoy the book and I will definitely read from Dahlia again.
Reviewed by Nat
Reviewed by Nat
July 14, 2018
4.5 stars
Ivan has shut himself off from the world and the two men who mean the most to him. He has spent 10 years eaten up with grief over the accident. They all have scars physically as well as emotionally. Wes and Rolland, who have been together since their college days, have had enough of Ivan’s wallowing and decide to go to him. In. The. Middle. Of. A. Flood!! Needless to say Ivan wasn’t pleased with the unexpected intrusion. Will Ivan be able to forgive himself all the pain he caused with the accident and be happy with the two men that feel like they are missing a piece of them?
Ivan has shut himself off from the world and the two men who mean the most to him. He has spent 10 years eaten up with grief over the accident. They all have scars physically as well as emotionally. Wes and Rolland, who have been together since their college days, have had enough of Ivan’s wallowing and decide to go to him. In. The. Middle. Of. A. Flood!! Needless to say Ivan wasn’t pleased with the unexpected intrusion. Will Ivan be able to forgive himself all the pain he caused with the accident and be happy with the two men that feel like they are missing a piece of them?
July 17, 2018
A fun romance with second chances for some characters. I liked that they were all equal in the relationship and the connection is easy to establish between them all. They don't seem awkward at all, which is sometimes how these three lover books work.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
July 9, 2018
Forged in Flood is a great M/M/M read. Dahlia Donovan is becoming a favorite M/M author. Once I started this book, I couldn't put it down! And OMG these scenes are seriously hot!! I can't wait for more!!
July 20, 2018
Fun,
This was a quirky, fun read, although some tragedy still remained. I enjoyed Wes and Rolly as they tried to convince Ivan to come back to them.. after a tragic accident and ten years of guilt.
This was a quirky, fun read, although some tragedy still remained. I enjoyed Wes and Rolly as they tried to convince Ivan to come back to them.. after a tragic accident and ten years of guilt.
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