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Hot Wire #1
Night Moves
“He’ll steal your heart and then your car.”
Peter Bauer is a career car thief with more skeletons in his closet than four-figure suits. Nikos Petrakis is a mechanic who's found himself on the wrong side of the law because of a secret of his own. Brought together by circumstance and a '65 Shelby Cobra, they'll have to navigate L.A.'s seedy underbelly in the sweet with heat world of Hot Wire.
Night Moves has been nominated for the Goodreads M/M Romance Members’ Choice Awards Best of 2018 for both Best Debut Book and Best Main Character. It contains themes of crime, suspense, family drama, hurt/comfort, dark humor, addiction, and abuse. Rated M for mature.
Peter Bauer is a career car thief with more skeletons in his closet than four-figure suits. Nikos Petrakis is a mechanic who's found himself on the wrong side of the law because of a secret of his own. Brought together by circumstance and a '65 Shelby Cobra, they'll have to navigate L.A.'s seedy underbelly in the sweet with heat world of Hot Wire.
Night Moves has been nominated for the Goodreads M/M Romance Members’ Choice Awards Best of 2018 for both Best Debut Book and Best Main Character. It contains themes of crime, suspense, family drama, hurt/comfort, dark humor, addiction, and abuse. Rated M for mature.
120 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2018
9 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Kat Cassidy
10 books41 followersKat Cassidy is a romance novelist. She’s a dreamer, a schemer and, above all else, a believer in true love. She lives in Canada with her husband, her kids, and her lovable mutt, and she likes loud guitars and strong IPAs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
February 1, 2019
This was... Not for me.
When both abusers got a POV (and yes, I'm definitely counting Olivia in this, what a FREAKING bitch!), I was more than uncomfortable.
And seriously, that cow kept calling Peter 'selfish' and he kept apologizing and then she
*sigh* No thanks, this was not good!
What really bugged me, was that both Peter and Olivia were victims, but Peter moreso, and I ended up hating Olivia, which probably says something about me.
But she kept Peter there (with their abusive father) and then she blamed him for trying to escape!? And then she got a bee in her bonnet, when he called her out?
Naaaaah, she gave women everywhere, a bad name!
I kinda likedJonah? Jonathan? Jay? Whatever his name was, and I would have loved for him to have a story, since I wasn't sold on Peter. And the romance was lackluster at best -IMO. Nik basically
So, not really angels singing and stars falling, if you ask me.
Apparently this one won some reader-thingies?! And the writing was fine, I just had some issues with the plot and the way things turned out.
When both abusers got a POV (and yes, I'm definitely counting Olivia in this, what a FREAKING bitch!), I was more than uncomfortable.
And seriously, that cow kept calling Peter 'selfish' and he kept apologizing and then she
*sigh* No thanks, this was not good!
What really bugged me, was that both Peter and Olivia were victims, but Peter moreso, and I ended up hating Olivia, which probably says something about me.
But she kept Peter there (with their abusive father) and then she blamed him for trying to escape!? And then she got a bee in her bonnet, when he called her out?
Naaaaah, she gave women everywhere, a bad name!
I kinda liked
So, not really angels singing and stars falling, if you ask me.
Apparently this one won some reader-thingies?! And the writing was fine, I just had some issues with the plot and the way things turned out.
October 25, 2018
4.5 stars
I really, really liked this debut novel and am rather impressed with the style of writing. Most of the story comes from Peter’s point of view but several chapters come from other primary character perspectives. Nik is the other MC but his viewpoint shows mostly external events, not connected to his relationship with Peter. I use the word “relationship” loosely, since there is little interaction between the two men that shows exactly how it developed. Much concerns Peter, his sister Olivia and their father Erik, the soulless father who has spent a lifetime beating Peter down, physically and mentally. Erik also runs a criminal enterprise selling stolen cars and parts and Peter is the best of car thieves. Nik makes Peter long for something more and different from his life but after one brief interlude together a misunderstanding begins an avalanche of troubles for Peter.
The narrative is moody, occasionally depressing when showing flashbacks into the past. Those are infrequent but even action in the present lacks much hope until later in the story. It’s unveiled so well though, not easy or simple nor does it resolve ramifications from the prior events. If there wasn’t a sequel I might be more negative about the lack of development or intimacy between Peter and Nikos. I will be disappointed if that isn’t remedied in the follow up. But the book reads almost like a prequel, laying out background and history as a lead up to much more. I certainly hope it lives up to my expectations but this volume offers a lot of promise.
I really, really liked this debut novel and am rather impressed with the style of writing. Most of the story comes from Peter’s point of view but several chapters come from other primary character perspectives. Nik is the other MC but his viewpoint shows mostly external events, not connected to his relationship with Peter. I use the word “relationship” loosely, since there is little interaction between the two men that shows exactly how it developed. Much concerns Peter, his sister Olivia and their father Erik, the soulless father who has spent a lifetime beating Peter down, physically and mentally. Erik also runs a criminal enterprise selling stolen cars and parts and Peter is the best of car thieves. Nik makes Peter long for something more and different from his life but after one brief interlude together a misunderstanding begins an avalanche of troubles for Peter.
The narrative is moody, occasionally depressing when showing flashbacks into the past. Those are infrequent but even action in the present lacks much hope until later in the story. It’s unveiled so well though, not easy or simple nor does it resolve ramifications from the prior events. If there wasn’t a sequel I might be more negative about the lack of development or intimacy between Peter and Nikos. I will be disappointed if that isn’t remedied in the follow up. But the book reads almost like a prequel, laying out background and history as a lead up to much more. I certainly hope it lives up to my expectations but this volume offers a lot of promise.
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January 16, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Night Moves is a fast paced, edgy drama that kept me engaged throughout the entire book. It was captivating enough to read during the course of one day and the pages effortlessly flew by. It’s primarily Peter’s story as we get caught up on the abuse he has suffered his entire life at the hands of his father and how being a criminal is all he knows. While Peter excels at stealing cars, the criminal life has never been the best fit for him, but he has had no choice. The writing hits harder and goes a little darker and makes for compelling reading the entire way through.
Nikos was happily married, but a betrayal cost his family everything and he’s obligated to pay back a debt that was never his to begin with. The circumstances of his marriage are explained and not everything is what it seems. Nikos takes an interest in Peter, but since we don’t get his POV directly, his motives were harder to fully grasp all the time.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Night Moves is a fast paced, edgy drama that kept me engaged throughout the entire book. It was captivating enough to read during the course of one day and the pages effortlessly flew by. It’s primarily Peter’s story as we get caught up on the abuse he has suffered his entire life at the hands of his father and how being a criminal is all he knows. While Peter excels at stealing cars, the criminal life has never been the best fit for him, but he has had no choice. The writing hits harder and goes a little darker and makes for compelling reading the entire way through.
Nikos was happily married, but a betrayal cost his family everything and he’s obligated to pay back a debt that was never his to begin with. The circumstances of his marriage are explained and not everything is what it seems. Nikos takes an interest in Peter, but since we don’t get his POV directly, his motives were harder to fully grasp all the time.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
September 6, 2021
I finished this short book (116 pages) in one sitting and while I can't say I absolutely loved the plot, it has stuck with me and upon reflection, I want to read more about these characters.
Peter is a career car thief with a psychopath for a father ("Patience was how he'd built everything, knowing when to lie in wait. Pragmatic brutality had gotten him the rest of the way") and a sister Olivia who may or may not be much better. We get their story in the present time, interspersed with a series of flashbacks that are at times horrifying and Kat Cassidy crafts memorable characters in a short number of pages. There is the beginning of a possible something between gorgeous Greek mechanic Nikos Patrakis and Peter ... but Nikos has a lot of baggage of this own and Peter has been brutalized and demoralized by a lifetime with his father and needs to realize that he is not broken.
For such a short novella, this story packs a lot of punches and the ending gives us many threads for additional book(s) with Olivia going out on her own ("None of us are getting out of this fucking family alive unless we play this smart") as Peter confronts demons of his own and Nikos copes with a huge loss and tries to start over. It's gritty and depressing at times, but there's something about this plot and the characters that just draws you in, and I'm looking forward to reading the second book in the series, "Backstreets." 4 stars.
I received an ARC from the author, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
Peter is a career car thief with a psychopath for a father ("Patience was how he'd built everything, knowing when to lie in wait. Pragmatic brutality had gotten him the rest of the way") and a sister Olivia who may or may not be much better. We get their story in the present time, interspersed with a series of flashbacks that are at times horrifying and Kat Cassidy crafts memorable characters in a short number of pages. There is the beginning of a possible something between gorgeous Greek mechanic Nikos Patrakis and Peter ... but Nikos has a lot of baggage of this own and Peter has been brutalized and demoralized by a lifetime with his father and needs to realize that he is not broken.
For such a short novella, this story packs a lot of punches and the ending gives us many threads for additional book(s) with Olivia going out on her own ("None of us are getting out of this fucking family alive unless we play this smart") as Peter confronts demons of his own and Nikos copes with a huge loss and tries to start over. It's gritty and depressing at times, but there's something about this plot and the characters that just draws you in, and I'm looking forward to reading the second book in the series, "Backstreets." 4 stars.
I received an ARC from the author, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
February 21, 2019
This plot line has a lot of promise but the book itself needs a lot of polish. I liked Peter despite his penchant for constant apologizing to his sister who in my opinion is a very selfish woman who goes back and forth between backstabbing and playing conscientious sibling. I have mixed feeling about Nikos. While I understood in the end why he slept with Peter (it was a simple wish for human touch and company on his part), doing it while your wife was on life support in the hospital was not sitting right with me. I did like Nina and Jordan.
I liked the conflict between Peter and his father Erik, but the conclusion of the book felt flat due to the fact that the initial confrontation with him was omitted. I felt cheated. I really wanted some kind of showdown between them all. I was not crazy about the intimate scene between MCs. It was all over the place, the words used were awkward, there was no passion. I did like the humor. There were moments that made me laugh out loud.
I am curious enough to see what she comes up in the next book. I think with more experience and research this author can be very good.
** ARC kindly provided by the author for my honest review **
I liked the conflict between Peter and his father Erik, but the conclusion of the book felt flat due to the fact that the initial confrontation with him was omitted. I felt cheated. I really wanted some kind of showdown between them all. I was not crazy about the intimate scene between MCs. It was all over the place, the words used were awkward, there was no passion. I did like the humor. There were moments that made me laugh out loud.
I am curious enough to see what she comes up in the next book. I think with more experience and research this author can be very good.
** ARC kindly provided by the author for my honest review **
November 16, 2018
Drawn in to this story because of the title. Night Moves didn't disappoint! I was very impressed with Ms. Cassidy's story crafting skills and how immersive her style is.
June 3, 2019
This was really good! It was about a guy who happens to be gay and the ups and downs of his life. The sex was minimal (listing that as a plus), the characters had some depth and, I shit you not, it felt like I was reading a REAL BOOK. I'm kind of stunned, actually. The experience of reading this book was so different than what I've experienced lately. No dumb typos, the POV didn't shift every two seconds, not everything was solved with sex, and characters reacted in believable ways. A treat.
Edit* I'm back the next morning to add more. I think what was so refreshing about Night Moves is that the story was about Peter. Not about his attempts to woo Nik, but it was a story about a person who had it very hard and was trying his best even though life kept beating him down. The struggle with addiction wasn't some kind of convenient character trait picked off a list to make us sympathize with Peter. Instead, it felt like a natural part of the character that made sense based on his past. His addiction also wasn't dismissed as soon as it would stand in the way of the romance *cough that one book with the alcoholic I read a minute ago cough* and Peter wasn't able to magically overcome his problem because of the romance. Glad to see someone realizes getting laid doesn't cure an opioid addiction.
Peter is also someone who makes mistakes over and over again because he doesn't really know any different. While sad and kind of frustrating, at least it feels real.
Edit* I'm back the next morning to add more. I think what was so refreshing about Night Moves is that the story was about Peter. Not about his attempts to woo Nik, but it was a story about a person who had it very hard and was trying his best even though life kept beating him down. The struggle with addiction wasn't some kind of convenient character trait picked off a list to make us sympathize with Peter. Instead, it felt like a natural part of the character that made sense based on his past. His addiction also wasn't dismissed as soon as it would stand in the way of the romance *cough that one book with the alcoholic I read a minute ago cough* and Peter wasn't able to magically overcome his problem because of the romance. Glad to see someone realizes getting laid doesn't cure an opioid addiction.
Peter is also someone who makes mistakes over and over again because he doesn't really know any different. While sad and kind of frustrating, at least it feels real.
July 26, 2019
3.5/5⭐
[I received a digital copy for an honest review]
"He wasn't a good son or a good brother or a good partner, it told him. He wasn't particularly smart or tough or sharp, but, God, was Peter good at stealing cars."
Night Moves by Kat Cassidy is the first in her MM crime romance series , Hot Wire. I have mixed feeling after finishing but I'm definitely interested in reading more of the series and finding out what happens between the main character.
Night Moves is told from multiple point of views with the main point of view being Peter Bauer. I really enjoyed the other view points all progress the story and give us back round history on the characters in a refreshing way. The story as a whole was highly emotional story with the characters dealing with everything from abuse to addiction and death.
For a debut novel it was quite intense and the main character was really well-developed. It didn't take long for me to care about him and feel for him when it seemed like he just kept getting kicked while he was down. I had a little more trouble connecting with Nikos but I have a feeling that in the next book I get to know him more. The sexual tension between them worked but when it came to the intimacy between them it didn't really work for me. I do think they could work well personality wise.
"I just don't get a happy ending, Nik. I never have."
[I received a digital copy for an honest review]
"He wasn't a good son or a good brother or a good partner, it told him. He wasn't particularly smart or tough or sharp, but, God, was Peter good at stealing cars."
Night Moves by Kat Cassidy is the first in her MM crime romance series , Hot Wire. I have mixed feeling after finishing but I'm definitely interested in reading more of the series and finding out what happens between the main character.
Night Moves is told from multiple point of views with the main point of view being Peter Bauer. I really enjoyed the other view points all progress the story and give us back round history on the characters in a refreshing way. The story as a whole was highly emotional story with the characters dealing with everything from abuse to addiction and death.
For a debut novel it was quite intense and the main character was really well-developed. It didn't take long for me to care about him and feel for him when it seemed like he just kept getting kicked while he was down. I had a little more trouble connecting with Nikos but I have a feeling that in the next book I get to know him more. The sexual tension between them worked but when it came to the intimacy between them it didn't really work for me. I do think they could work well personality wise.
"I just don't get a happy ending, Nik. I never have."
January 16, 2019
Peter Bauer steals automobiles for a living forced into it by his criminal father. Taught from a young age to keep his mouth shut and do as told, Peter confidence is shot and any hope he has of getting out from under his father's thumb is much like catching smoke. The only bright side to Peter's forced employment is Nikos Petrakis, a mechanic whom works for Peter's father in his chop shop in exchange for debt payment. Peter's father isn't an easy man to please and his father is always keeping tabs on him waiting and testing his loyalty.
I liked this book and the characters. I felt bad for Peter and how his father had whittled down his self confidence so much that he didn't think he was good enough for goods thing in life (love, happiness, etc). I liked that Nik could bring some happiness and hope. That he believed in him even though Nik didn't really know Peter or how he suffers physical and mental abuse from his father.
I think the book left itself at a good place for a start of a series and look forward to seeing what other adventures Peter and Nikos goes through. I also hope that readers can better get to know the two and and we get more glimpses of their supportive family. It might be nice if readers can get the story from Nikos POV.
I did have a small issue with the formatting in two places with the EPUB version (this didn't affect the rating). I with the option of night option (instead of day) but in this case either still resulted with the a few paragraphs fading to gray and other cases with either format just in the background and a text box with the passage for a page or two. It's a pet peeve and I felt I had to mention it.
A free copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
I liked this book and the characters. I felt bad for Peter and how his father had whittled down his self confidence so much that he didn't think he was good enough for goods thing in life (love, happiness, etc). I liked that Nik could bring some happiness and hope. That he believed in him even though Nik didn't really know Peter or how he suffers physical and mental abuse from his father.
I think the book left itself at a good place for a start of a series and look forward to seeing what other adventures Peter and Nikos goes through. I also hope that readers can better get to know the two and and we get more glimpses of their supportive family. It might be nice if readers can get the story from Nikos POV.
I did have a small issue with the formatting in two places with the EPUB version (this didn't affect the rating). I with the option of night option (instead of day) but in this case either still resulted with the a few paragraphs fading to gray and other cases with either format just in the background and a text box with the passage for a page or two. It's a pet peeve and I felt I had to mention it.
A free copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
November 7, 2018
Note: An ARC was provided by the author. The full review can be read on Dog-Eared Daydreams.
Would it sound weird if I admitted that I feel proud when a debut author leaves me highly impressed with their first foray in the world of published fiction? It’s a rare feat, and Kat Cassidy is one of the rarefied few to do so. When I saw she was offering up her book to be read and reviewed, the blurb had me hooked, and suffice it to say, her story and writing had my full attention from the get-go. It sounded like an ambitious story to write, but Cassidy did quite nicely, coming up with a good mix of romance and suspense. Even better, Night Moves is the first in her brand-new series. Out of a handful of debut releases I’ve had the privilege of reading this year, this book, by far, has left a lasting impression on me, one that’ll hopefully carry me over until the next release in the Hot Wire series. I've got my fingers crossed that this wasn't just a fluke--and yes, my expectations for book two are high. Five stars. ♥
Would it sound weird if I admitted that I feel proud when a debut author leaves me highly impressed with their first foray in the world of published fiction? It’s a rare feat, and Kat Cassidy is one of the rarefied few to do so. When I saw she was offering up her book to be read and reviewed, the blurb had me hooked, and suffice it to say, her story and writing had my full attention from the get-go. It sounded like an ambitious story to write, but Cassidy did quite nicely, coming up with a good mix of romance and suspense. Even better, Night Moves is the first in her brand-new series. Out of a handful of debut releases I’ve had the privilege of reading this year, this book, by far, has left a lasting impression on me, one that’ll hopefully carry me over until the next release in the Hot Wire series. I've got my fingers crossed that this wasn't just a fluke--and yes, my expectations for book two are high. Five stars. ♥
October 29, 2018
A gritty slow burn of a romance. Peter, the kind-hearted car thief, stole my heart from the start. “…Daniels Jr. had leaned in close and whispered something to her that had reduced her to tears. And that had been it; Peter had made a vow to himself right then to steal the car.” And that vow kicks off a whole lot of trouble for Peter who hasn’t had an easy life mainly due to his father. And Nik, ahh my heart ached for him.
The story is an unusual one in the way it is told with interludes between some of the chapters. The main story is told from Peter’s POV but the interludes are mainly from the women’s POV that are featured in the story and provide the backstory for the characters and help explain their actions in the present story.
A darkish tale with a view of the seedy underbelly of LA that ultimately ends happily and leaves the story nicely set up for the next book to continue. A great debut story and I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.
I was given a copy of this book to review for Rainbow Romance Reads.
The story is an unusual one in the way it is told with interludes between some of the chapters. The main story is told from Peter’s POV but the interludes are mainly from the women’s POV that are featured in the story and provide the backstory for the characters and help explain their actions in the present story.
A darkish tale with a view of the seedy underbelly of LA that ultimately ends happily and leaves the story nicely set up for the next book to continue. A great debut story and I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.
I was given a copy of this book to review for Rainbow Romance Reads.
October 23, 2018
Night Moves is book number one in the Hot Wire series by Kat Cassidy. This story centers around Peter Bauer.
This story was entertaining and kept my attention. I really enjoyed Peter’s character. Peter works as a car thief for his dad. Let’s just say that Peter and his dad don’t have a normal father and son relationship. So, with the way Peter’s dad treats him you wonder why he puts up with it. You learn pretty quickly that for Peter to get away from his dad is more complicated than just quitting a job.
Nikos works as a mechanic for Peter’s dad. Nikos has secrets too and he and Peter form a sort of friendship and have an attraction to each other.
I really enjoyed this read. The story doesn’t end in a definite HEA but ends well. Peter and Nikos will return in the second book of the Hot Wire series next year. FYI, contains mature content. This is a M/M gay romance. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
This story was entertaining and kept my attention. I really enjoyed Peter’s character. Peter works as a car thief for his dad. Let’s just say that Peter and his dad don’t have a normal father and son relationship. So, with the way Peter’s dad treats him you wonder why he puts up with it. You learn pretty quickly that for Peter to get away from his dad is more complicated than just quitting a job.
Nikos works as a mechanic for Peter’s dad. Nikos has secrets too and he and Peter form a sort of friendship and have an attraction to each other.
I really enjoyed this read. The story doesn’t end in a definite HEA but ends well. Peter and Nikos will return in the second book of the Hot Wire series next year. FYI, contains mature content. This is a M/M gay romance. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
January 26, 2022
I tried this series on a whim when the blurb for the upcoming second book ended up on my radar. Admittedly, this novella wasn't perfect, but it certainly captured my attention and ensured I'm in for the series. I loved how different this book was from my norm- edgy without being angst-driven with flawed, but likable characters. I also liked how different the romantic connection was between Nikos and Peter. Though Night Moves had a happy for now ending, these two had a palpable, simmering chemistry throughout the story and the ending promised for more from this unlikely pair.
The pacing for the novella is decidedly fast, reading almost like an action/suspense story with fast builds and conflicts constantly appearing from the corners. Although I liked the speedy tempo and thought it worked well for the story, I'm sure it won't work for some readers and it did end up rushing some of the developments, both in the the general and romantic plotline. I also wasn't sold on the author's choice to offer "interludes", or chapters from a secondary character's point of view. Even after finishing, I'm still uncertain about that approach, though I'll admit the insight those moments provided would have been difficult to come by otherwise. That said, it made the flow a little awkward, and in a book that is building conflict very quickly, it was noteworthy. Overall, I have to say that I was definitely impressed by the unique story and characters and am eager to start the second book. I love when taking a chance on a book and new author works out this well, so I'm definitely counting this as a win.
*eARC received via author. Review not influenced by author*
The pacing for the novella is decidedly fast, reading almost like an action/suspense story with fast builds and conflicts constantly appearing from the corners. Although I liked the speedy tempo and thought it worked well for the story, I'm sure it won't work for some readers and it did end up rushing some of the developments, both in the the general and romantic plotline. I also wasn't sold on the author's choice to offer "interludes", or chapters from a secondary character's point of view. Even after finishing, I'm still uncertain about that approach, though I'll admit the insight those moments provided would have been difficult to come by otherwise. That said, it made the flow a little awkward, and in a book that is building conflict very quickly, it was noteworthy. Overall, I have to say that I was definitely impressed by the unique story and characters and am eager to start the second book. I love when taking a chance on a book and new author works out this well, so I'm definitely counting this as a win.
*eARC received via author. Review not influenced by author*
October 22, 2018
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Peter has lived a life of crime since he first learned to steal a car at the age of 12. Surrounded by morally dark grey individuals, as well as an abusive father, he's hit a multitude of low points in his life, but with the help of his twin sister, manages to survive. Barely. After car mechanic Nikos is forced into his father's business, however, things somehow become even more complicated than ever before.
While perhaps not exactly what I was anticipating, Night Moves was an entertaining read, and a good start to a series. By the end of the story, I was invested in Peter's character, and was totally rooting for him. However, I do wish the romance aspect of this story was a bit more slow paced, as it's only the beginning of the series. So far, the relationship between Nikos and Peter seems too superficial, and I definitely wish they took more time to develop a relationship. Despite this, I do think the future installment will take more time to build on their relationship.
In addition, I loved the brief interludes the author chose to include, giving us insight into other character's lives. It really helped me connect with characters I wouldn't normally like, and also intensified my dislike for the villain, which is always a plus.
Overall, Night Moves was a quick and entertaining read with a compelling main character, and I look forward to the next book in the series.
3.5/5
Peter has lived a life of crime since he first learned to steal a car at the age of 12. Surrounded by morally dark grey individuals, as well as an abusive father, he's hit a multitude of low points in his life, but with the help of his twin sister, manages to survive. Barely. After car mechanic Nikos is forced into his father's business, however, things somehow become even more complicated than ever before.
While perhaps not exactly what I was anticipating, Night Moves was an entertaining read, and a good start to a series. By the end of the story, I was invested in Peter's character, and was totally rooting for him. However, I do wish the romance aspect of this story was a bit more slow paced, as it's only the beginning of the series. So far, the relationship between Nikos and Peter seems too superficial, and I definitely wish they took more time to develop a relationship. Despite this, I do think the future installment will take more time to build on their relationship.
In addition, I loved the brief interludes the author chose to include, giving us insight into other character's lives. It really helped me connect with characters I wouldn't normally like, and also intensified my dislike for the villain, which is always a plus.
Overall, Night Moves was a quick and entertaining read with a compelling main character, and I look forward to the next book in the series.
3.5/5
October 23, 2018
Such a fun, sweet debut from author Kat Cassidy!
I've never been much of a romance reader, but this one had all the elements that I love in a book-- a lovable yet flawed protagonist, well developed side characters, and smart humour peppered throughout. The flashbacks to Peter and Olivia's childhoods in particular were a highlight for me-- my heart broke for them over and over.
Also, strangely, I learned a lot about cars? Who knew. Guess I just needed a couple of fictional hunks to pique my interest.
I can't wait for the next book by this author, she has a promising career ahead of her!
I've never been much of a romance reader, but this one had all the elements that I love in a book-- a lovable yet flawed protagonist, well developed side characters, and smart humour peppered throughout. The flashbacks to Peter and Olivia's childhoods in particular were a highlight for me-- my heart broke for them over and over.
Also, strangely, I learned a lot about cars? Who knew. Guess I just needed a couple of fictional hunks to pique my interest.
I can't wait for the next book by this author, she has a promising career ahead of her!
Read
March 11, 2019Didn't finish this one. Good writing, nice chemistry between the MCs, great characterization. BUT I could not stomach the abuse. I stalled when a chapter came up from the point of view of this awful abuser character who is the antagonist.
Trigger warning for fairly detailed descriptions of childhood physical abuse that made me ill.
Trigger warning for fairly detailed descriptions of childhood physical abuse that made me ill.
tbr-maybe-baby
October 25, 2018I need one of y'all to read this and let me know if it's worth my time. I can't with another bad book this year but this sounds really good.
Anyone?? Anyone??
Anyone?? Anyone??
January 10, 2019
The book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review via the MMRG Don't Buy My Love Program.
I really enjoyed this book. I don't think I have ever read a book that had "interludes" for us to get to know some secondary characters that we would not normally get any background on, and I really liked it. We get to learn what happened to Helena, Nikos' wife & brother-in-law, Mark, which leads to why he is working for Erik, Peter's POS dad. We get to see some of Olivia, Peter's twin sister, and what I think might have been the first time that Erik abused Peter, and he did a lot of physical abuse over the years. I would have liked a physical confrontation between Peter & Erik with Peter putting Erik in his place. But I guess I will just have to picture him getting his licks in prison. The last interlude is Nina who was Nikos' brother-in-law’s wife. I don't know if I really liked her or not. Yes, I understand what happened was a horrible thing but and I don't know, maybe she will grow on me in future books. So, Peter decides to boost a Shelby, not a car that is easily chopped, and which really sets his father off. I loved the reasoning why he did it though. He must hide the vehicle until it’s not so hot & Nikos volunteers his garage. While taking the car over, they finally give in to what they both want. I guess we are supposed to get the feeling that there has been a slow sexual burn between these two for a long time but I didn't really get that feeling. Even though these two don't get a lot of page time together, they do end on a pretty strong HFN, I can' wait to see more of them in future books. There are some things left open that I would like to get answers to. What really happened to their mother? I know we are supposed to assume one thing but I would like that confirmed. What exactly is Olivia doing? Is the business the same as what it was under Erik? I was a little confused on that. There are some other shady players just hanging & I would like to see closure with them as well. I really can't wait to see more of these two in future books. This is also a new to me author & I can't wait to see what else she has in store for us both with this series & outside of this series.
I really enjoyed this book. I don't think I have ever read a book that had "interludes" for us to get to know some secondary characters that we would not normally get any background on, and I really liked it. We get to learn what happened to Helena, Nikos' wife & brother-in-law, Mark, which leads to why he is working for Erik, Peter's POS dad. We get to see some of Olivia, Peter's twin sister, and what I think might have been the first time that Erik abused Peter, and he did a lot of physical abuse over the years. I would have liked a physical confrontation between Peter & Erik with Peter putting Erik in his place. But I guess I will just have to picture him getting his licks in prison. The last interlude is Nina who was Nikos' brother-in-law’s wife. I don't know if I really liked her or not. Yes, I understand what happened was a horrible thing but and I don't know, maybe she will grow on me in future books. So, Peter decides to boost a Shelby, not a car that is easily chopped, and which really sets his father off. I loved the reasoning why he did it though. He must hide the vehicle until it’s not so hot & Nikos volunteers his garage. While taking the car over, they finally give in to what they both want. I guess we are supposed to get the feeling that there has been a slow sexual burn between these two for a long time but I didn't really get that feeling. Even though these two don't get a lot of page time together, they do end on a pretty strong HFN, I can' wait to see more of them in future books. There are some things left open that I would like to get answers to. What really happened to their mother? I know we are supposed to assume one thing but I would like that confirmed. What exactly is Olivia doing? Is the business the same as what it was under Erik? I was a little confused on that. There are some other shady players just hanging & I would like to see closure with them as well. I really can't wait to see more of these two in future books. This is also a new to me author & I can't wait to see what else she has in store for us both with this series & outside of this series.
February 2, 2019
3.5 Stars
Night Moves is book 1 in the Hot Wire series and Ms. Cassidy's debut book and as such, it was a good, solid start.
I am intrigued by the world Kat Cassidy has created here. Peter Bauer is part of a crime family, a car thief, although his father doesn't seem to think much of him. I definitely didn't like Peter's father, but I'm not sure I liked Peter's twin sister all that much either, even if she's supposed to be the 'good' one. I would've thought she'd be a bit more supportive of Peter after the abuse he'd suffered at their father's hands, but I guess since it wasn't her, it was alright? Not for me, but okay. *sighs* I'm aware Peter wasn't an angel, but he seemed to be a better man than anyone gives him credit for being.
And then we have Nik, mysterious and seemingly interested in Peter and after seducing him, it turns out he's married and straight or maybe bi? *shrugs* I don't really care if the wife wasn't really in the picture. I just didn't like that he was all righteous and didn't give Peter the chance to explain things. Plus I didn't really feel that I got to know Nik, which might be why I found it so hard to connect with him as a character. I didn't feel all that much chemistry between him and Peter either, but that might have been me. I liked Jordan better for Peter.
The book is well-written, although I'm not a fan of other POVs rather than the MCs, the interludes with some of the other players worked in this case. My favorite by far was Peter, and I'm interested enough in finding out how things are going to play out for him now to pick up the next book in the series. Recommendable.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Night Moves is book 1 in the Hot Wire series and Ms. Cassidy's debut book and as such, it was a good, solid start.
I am intrigued by the world Kat Cassidy has created here. Peter Bauer is part of a crime family, a car thief, although his father doesn't seem to think much of him. I definitely didn't like Peter's father, but I'm not sure I liked Peter's twin sister all that much either, even if she's supposed to be the 'good' one. I would've thought she'd be a bit more supportive of Peter after the abuse he'd suffered at their father's hands, but I guess since it wasn't her, it was alright? Not for me, but okay. *sighs* I'm aware Peter wasn't an angel, but he seemed to be a better man than anyone gives him credit for being.
And then we have Nik, mysterious and seemingly interested in Peter and after seducing him, it turns out he's married and straight or maybe bi? *shrugs* I don't really care if the wife wasn't really in the picture. I just didn't like that he was all righteous and didn't give Peter the chance to explain things. Plus I didn't really feel that I got to know Nik, which might be why I found it so hard to connect with him as a character. I didn't feel all that much chemistry between him and Peter either, but that might have been me. I liked Jordan better for Peter.
The book is well-written, although I'm not a fan of other POVs rather than the MCs, the interludes with some of the other players worked in this case. My favorite by far was Peter, and I'm interested enough in finding out how things are going to play out for him now to pick up the next book in the series. Recommendable.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
March 11, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.25 stars
🔥🔥 Heat Level: 2.5
A gritty slow-burn, with wonderfully deep damaged characters, thrills, wit and a bit of auto theft! A great read!!
This debut story by Kat packs a bunch. Gritty and a little dark from the start, Kat drags you into Peter’s world of crime, theft and childhood abuse. Kat’s writing style is so captivating, profound and honest that you can’t help but feel for Peter and his past and his shaky and hard-fought future. So much happens in such a short time and I always admire an author who can add so much detail into so few words, a true talent and Kat has created a whole crime-filled world!
The story follows Peter, his (career crime) family, and their chop shop. While Peter is a car thief he gets caught up in one of his fathers “lessons” and is pushed to the edge. A new crush surfaces with Nikos, a former mechanic under Pater’s father’s thumb. This connection could put them both in danger and starts a complex connection with baggage, a beautiful little girl and a few manipulated threats that put Peter and Nik on shaky ground before they even have a chance to begin. I can’t help but hate Peter’s father throughout this book and the ‘karma’ just doesn’t seem like enough!
A great open to a dark and mysterious series and I look forward to where Kat will take us next!! Highly recommended for a deep, dark crime filled thrill!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
🔥🔥 Heat Level: 2.5
A gritty slow-burn, with wonderfully deep damaged characters, thrills, wit and a bit of auto theft! A great read!!
This debut story by Kat packs a bunch. Gritty and a little dark from the start, Kat drags you into Peter’s world of crime, theft and childhood abuse. Kat’s writing style is so captivating, profound and honest that you can’t help but feel for Peter and his past and his shaky and hard-fought future. So much happens in such a short time and I always admire an author who can add so much detail into so few words, a true talent and Kat has created a whole crime-filled world!
The story follows Peter, his (career crime) family, and their chop shop. While Peter is a car thief he gets caught up in one of his fathers “lessons” and is pushed to the edge. A new crush surfaces with Nikos, a former mechanic under Pater’s father’s thumb. This connection could put them both in danger and starts a complex connection with baggage, a beautiful little girl and a few manipulated threats that put Peter and Nik on shaky ground before they even have a chance to begin. I can’t help but hate Peter’s father throughout this book and the ‘karma’ just doesn’t seem like enough!
A great open to a dark and mysterious series and I look forward to where Kat will take us next!! Highly recommended for a deep, dark crime filled thrill!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
January 14, 2019
* a copy of this book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review via the MMRG Don't Buy My Love Program *
A great debut book!
I loved this story and almost all characters here.
It is a really good, very enjoyable read that can be read in just one sitting. It was difficult for me to read about Peter's childhood as well as Nikos' wife. It was drastic. I had to make a break after the chapter about Peter's broken hand because it was too much. I didn't expect a simple romance story to have such an effect on me.
This is not Your average romance love story. It is more (and yet not enough). There was great chemistry between Nik and Peter, but there was a lot of drama in their life. It is a very low heat type of a story, but it is full of little touches, affection, caring for each other and some simple pleasures.
There is something in this book that makes it difficult to forget and I am 100% sure I'll read book #2 as soon as possible.
A great debut book!
I loved this story and almost all characters here.
It is a really good, very enjoyable read that can be read in just one sitting. It was difficult for me to read about Peter's childhood as well as Nikos' wife. It was drastic. I had to make a break after the chapter about Peter's broken hand because it was too much. I didn't expect a simple romance story to have such an effect on me.
This is not Your average romance love story. It is more (and yet not enough). There was great chemistry between Nik and Peter, but there was a lot of drama in their life. It is a very low heat type of a story, but it is full of little touches, affection, caring for each other and some simple pleasures.
There is something in this book that makes it difficult to forget and I am 100% sure I'll read book #2 as soon as possible.
October 20, 2018
“He’ll steal your heart and then your car.”
Peter Bauer is a hard-living car thief with more skeletons in his closet than four-figure suits. Nikos Petrakis is a career mechanic who's found himself on the wrong side of the law because of a secret of his own. Brought together by circumstance and a ’65 Shelby Cobra, they'll have to navigate L.A.'s seedy underbelly in the sweet with heat world of Hot Wire.
Review:
I really enjoyed this #MMRomance with a twist. It took a bit to understand the Interlude chapters and how they related to the body of the story but they add quite a bit of weight to the story arc.
Peter and Nico's relationship is definitely not conventional and has that gritty "Gallovich" feel. There's a push/pull that takes a bit of time to reveal itself and that's the beauty of this romance. It's uncertain, it's problematic for the characters, it's heavy and it's totally kinda hot.
I enjoyed the way the story was put together and I'm already looking forward to getting my hands on book 2 of the series when it releases next year. 4.5/5 stars
Peter Bauer is a hard-living car thief with more skeletons in his closet than four-figure suits. Nikos Petrakis is a career mechanic who's found himself on the wrong side of the law because of a secret of his own. Brought together by circumstance and a ’65 Shelby Cobra, they'll have to navigate L.A.'s seedy underbelly in the sweet with heat world of Hot Wire.
Review:
I really enjoyed this #MMRomance with a twist. It took a bit to understand the Interlude chapters and how they related to the body of the story but they add quite a bit of weight to the story arc.
Peter and Nico's relationship is definitely not conventional and has that gritty "Gallovich" feel. There's a push/pull that takes a bit of time to reveal itself and that's the beauty of this romance. It's uncertain, it's problematic for the characters, it's heavy and it's totally kinda hot.
I enjoyed the way the story was put together and I'm already looking forward to getting my hands on book 2 of the series when it releases next year. 4.5/5 stars
November 12, 2018
Intense and gritty story about two men caught in the underbelly of the city. I so loved the plot of this appealing story. I found the characters three dimensional with strengths and weakness and found the two MC's very likable.
Peter and Nikos are just getting together in this story and i so want them to succeed. I love their chemistry and i want their love to grow and thrive. Both characters have suffered losses and have vulnerabilities and also great strength. I feel very protective of them both and want them to find their path to happiness.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series because their story is just beginning and they have more to discover about each other. I also want to see the restoration finished.
March 4, 2019
Peter has been stealing cars since he was twelve. On a daily basis he works with a father who still abuses him and a sister who uses him. Unable to get away from his father, stuck with his crappy life, the only light is Nikos. But even that goes dark.
I find it hard to really enjoy a book when I wish someone would put a screwdriver through one of the characters eye. Peter’s dad was a vicious man but his sister was so much worse. Using Peter’s love for her to get the control she craved. Peter was absolutely clueless as to how evil she was.
A lot of character development for a fairly short story. A nice beginning story. I’m hoping the second book will be more about Peter and Nick finding the love they deserve.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
I find it hard to really enjoy a book when I wish someone would put a screwdriver through one of the characters eye. Peter’s dad was a vicious man but his sister was so much worse. Using Peter’s love for her to get the control she craved. Peter was absolutely clueless as to how evil she was.
A lot of character development for a fairly short story. A nice beginning story. I’m hoping the second book will be more about Peter and Nick finding the love they deserve.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
March 10, 2019
Why did it take me so long to read this? I was hooked from the very first page and knocked it out in mere hours. The interludes from the POV of side characters throughout perfectly fleshed out the story and filled in gaps that would have otherwise left many unanswered questions.
There's a soft space in my heart for Peter. Man, he's had it tough. I want to wrap him up in bubble wrap and keep him safe. But he's got Nikos to provide that comfort and loads of affection.
Nikos hasn't had it easy, either. He's a bit stoic, but that suits him. I believe it's a blessing that he came to be involved in the Bauer family business.
Ugh, Olivia. She's a totally different story. I'll give her the benefit of the doubt and let her redeem herself in the next installment.
There's a soft space in my heart for Peter. Man, he's had it tough. I want to wrap him up in bubble wrap and keep him safe. But he's got Nikos to provide that comfort and loads of affection.
Nikos hasn't had it easy, either. He's a bit stoic, but that suits him. I believe it's a blessing that he came to be involved in the Bauer family business.
Ugh, Olivia. She's a totally different story. I'll give her the benefit of the doubt and let her redeem herself in the next installment.
October 30, 2018
This was a really quick read, but it was fun. Basically 90% of the story takes place over a 24 hour period with some flashbacks injected here and there.
The story begins with Peter Bauer, the son of Nick Bauer who heads a chop shop and other shady businesses. Peter steals a boss Cobra, which has started his day of horrors. This action leads him through the gamut of emotions and finally ends with him in jail, looking to serve a 6 month sentence.
There is a lot going on in the short story, but it's all action packed and full of depth and I'm super excited to read the next book in the series.
The story begins with Peter Bauer, the son of Nick Bauer who heads a chop shop and other shady businesses. Peter steals a boss Cobra, which has started his day of horrors. This action leads him through the gamut of emotions and finally ends with him in jail, looking to serve a 6 month sentence.
There is a lot going on in the short story, but it's all action packed and full of depth and I'm super excited to read the next book in the series.
September 20, 2019
This is a good surprise!
Honestly, I started this book without looking at the synopsis more than necessary, and I'm pretty glad I didn't because I liked it a lot.
It's not an easy book, because of the topics in it, and because you can fill the blanks with your imagination.
But I liked both main characters, and I was worried for Peter whithin all the book. Yeah, I know, he's a bit complaining and not really proactive about his situation, but this is the result of 30 years with a violent father, so...
So, I liked it :)
Honestly, I started this book without looking at the synopsis more than necessary, and I'm pretty glad I didn't because I liked it a lot.
It's not an easy book, because of the topics in it, and because you can fill the blanks with your imagination.
But I liked both main characters, and I was worried for Peter whithin all the book. Yeah, I know, he's a bit complaining and not really proactive about his situation, but this is the result of 30 years with a violent father, so...
So, I liked it :)
June 25, 2019
Liked this story. Adored the two MC's, Nikos and Peter. I actually didn't care about the "cheating" thing because I just wanted Nik and Peter to be together(and because I'm that bitch who didn't really give a shit about Nik's wife because she was a lying twat who kept things from Nik)
I hated Olivia and Nina...they were pretty much a couple of bitchy annoying assholes.
Anyway...this was a decent story. Great MC's. Sucky side characters.
On to book two.
I hated Olivia and Nina...they were pretty much a couple of bitchy annoying assholes.
Anyway...this was a decent story. Great MC's. Sucky side characters.
On to book two.
October 27, 2018
This book had me intrigued by the synopsis and I couldn’t wait to read it. It’s the first book in the Hot Wire Series and does a great job introducing many characters along with their backgrounds and what makes them tick.
“...he loved the rush, the getaway, the come down.”
There are parts that will break your heart, frustrate you, make you laugh and give you hope. Characters relationships, loyalties and betrayals are still developing and getting exposed. I’m hoping for more in depth meaningful moments in later books in the series.
“...he loved the rush, the getaway, the come down.”
There are parts that will break your heart, frustrate you, make you laugh and give you hope. Characters relationships, loyalties and betrayals are still developing and getting exposed. I’m hoping for more in depth meaningful moments in later books in the series.
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