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Thicker Than Blood #2
Threads That Bind
Three men, one burning flame of desire.
Gabe has two focuses in life; MMA and women. Wanting men was never in the cards for him, until he meets a man with ice in his eyes that turns him inside out.
Riley is married to his job and is determined to never let anyone get close enough to hurt him ever again; falling in love is definitely not in his plans.
Michael is an aspiring chef who is happy in the shadow of his overly outgoing twin brother. He’s fine being overlooked by guys in favour of his twin, really. Until Riley and Gabe turn the scorching weight of their combined gaze on him.
Gabe and Riley burn too hot, and their battle for dominance might turn them both to ash, but when they stumble upon Michael they’re drawn to him like moths to a flame. Will he be the soothing force between them?
A madman from Riley’s past will do everything to destroy the happiness Riley is trying to build. Promises Gabe made return to claim him, and Michael is suddenly left alone. Will they survive the secrets of their past and find their way back together?
Threads that Bind is the second book in the Thicker than Blood series. This book is not a standalone and has heavy connection to the storyline in book one. For maximum enjoyment, the books must be read in order.
This book contains mature themes and is a HEA filled with hot snarky men who can’t resist falling in love.
Gabe has two focuses in life; MMA and women. Wanting men was never in the cards for him, until he meets a man with ice in his eyes that turns him inside out.
Riley is married to his job and is determined to never let anyone get close enough to hurt him ever again; falling in love is definitely not in his plans.
Michael is an aspiring chef who is happy in the shadow of his overly outgoing twin brother. He’s fine being overlooked by guys in favour of his twin, really. Until Riley and Gabe turn the scorching weight of their combined gaze on him.
Gabe and Riley burn too hot, and their battle for dominance might turn them both to ash, but when they stumble upon Michael they’re drawn to him like moths to a flame. Will he be the soothing force between them?
A madman from Riley’s past will do everything to destroy the happiness Riley is trying to build. Promises Gabe made return to claim him, and Michael is suddenly left alone. Will they survive the secrets of their past and find their way back together?
Threads that Bind is the second book in the Thicker than Blood series. This book is not a standalone and has heavy connection to the storyline in book one. For maximum enjoyment, the books must be read in order.
This book contains mature themes and is a HEA filled with hot snarky men who can’t resist falling in love.
251 pages, ebook
First published May 7, 2021
3 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
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March 2, 2023DNF at 86%
I can’t believe i’m doing a DNF at 86% but I just couldn’t stick it out. I always try to just finish a book but due to personal trauma, I can’t read about a character in a MM (or MMM in this case) book that has current relationship links with a woman. And thats what the entire break up at 80% is about here. This might be a spoiler but at 86% this random woman shows up and tells everyone how her and one of the MC have plans to marry and I just couldn’t do it.
I was kind of enjoying this book, before I had to stop reading it so I will still review the first 86%. I’m not rating it because I didn’t finish it but if I was rating it, it would be like a 2.5 stars because the sex scenes are really fucking hot.
Half of my problems with this book is stuff I could have prevented and problems I brought upon myself, so really i’m the only one to blame here. I’m not the best at reading series in order and I have a short attention span so I just don’t pick up a book if i’m not interested in it. This book says it can be read as a standalone but it’s better to read book one in the series first but I didn’t really feel like doing that so I didn’t. I kept telling myself it would he fine… turns out it really wasn’t. The problem is, this book doesn’t make a very good standalone, I was so lost. I didn’t understand any of the suspense plot (because it’s carried over from book 1) and I had trouble getting into the book because of it.
Also, lets be clear here, 75% of why I enjoyed parts this book is because two of the three main characters were grumpy assholes. And grumpy assholes are my favourite type of characters, I just love them so much.
Brief summary:
Gabe is an MMA fighter and he meets Riley, a police officer. They become fuck buddies. Then comes Michael, a chef, who they both meet at different times and they are both attracted to him, then the three of them start sleeping together.
What I loved
First, i’m kind tired of reading about the typical plot where straight guy meets man, is attracted to him and then has a sexual crisis for 75% of the book. So I appreciated that Gabe always thought he’s straight but when he was attracted to a man for the first time, he didn’t have a sexuality crisis, he just went with it.
Second, I loved Riley, so much. Gabe and Michael were fine characters but a little underdevelopped. But Riley, man I love him so much. He a grumpy asshole and he was really dominant and kept giving Michael and Gabe orders. And everything about him was just so fucking hot to me.
Third, the sex scenes in this books were of very high quality. All of them were hot as fuck. Everything about them worked. From how rough the sex was, to Riley ordering everyone around, to doing the correct amount of prep before fucking someone, to the descriptions of how anal can be painful and it’s not just all fun the second you start doing it. All of it, just so good. I would have given this book 5 stars if there wasn’t a pesky, very confusing and over the top plot taking away from the sex scenes.
My niggles with the book, other than the reason why I stoped reading
First, the pacing was a bit off, there was lots of bizarre time cuts and the scenes felt a little unfinished, it felt like a lot of the scenes were rushed through and not explored enough.
Second, I never understood why the three of them got together in the first place. The relationship build up didn’t make much sense. It felt like these people just looked at each other and suddently knew the three of them wanted to be together, no one ever talked. The more and more the relationship progressed, no one ever talked about what they were doing or anything, they just had a lot of sex. I really couldn’t see why they wanted to be together, I didn’t get enough of them doing things together to see their connection.
Third, as we already established, I didn’t understand much of what was happening in the book, but damn was this book dramatic. There was way too much over the top drama for me.
Fourth, you know those commercials where you can buy two things and as an added bonus for a limited time they offer you something for free? Thats how Michael felt in their relationship. It didn’t feel like the three of them were an unit. It always felt like Riley and Gabe were way more important and a bigger part of the relationship and that Michael was just an added bonus and not as important or valuable as the rest.
If you don’t mind a lot of over the top drama and a plot that is really confusing, this book is worth it for the sex scenes alone, they’re the best.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
I can’t believe i’m doing a DNF at 86% but I just couldn’t stick it out. I always try to just finish a book but due to personal trauma, I can’t read about a character in a MM (or MMM in this case) book that has current relationship links with a woman. And thats what the entire break up at 80% is about here. This might be a spoiler but at 86% this random woman shows up and tells everyone how her and one of the MC have plans to marry and I just couldn’t do it.
I was kind of enjoying this book, before I had to stop reading it so I will still review the first 86%. I’m not rating it because I didn’t finish it but if I was rating it, it would be like a 2.5 stars because the sex scenes are really fucking hot.
Half of my problems with this book is stuff I could have prevented and problems I brought upon myself, so really i’m the only one to blame here. I’m not the best at reading series in order and I have a short attention span so I just don’t pick up a book if i’m not interested in it. This book says it can be read as a standalone but it’s better to read book one in the series first but I didn’t really feel like doing that so I didn’t. I kept telling myself it would he fine… turns out it really wasn’t. The problem is, this book doesn’t make a very good standalone, I was so lost. I didn’t understand any of the suspense plot (because it’s carried over from book 1) and I had trouble getting into the book because of it.
Also, lets be clear here, 75% of why I enjoyed parts this book is because two of the three main characters were grumpy assholes. And grumpy assholes are my favourite type of characters, I just love them so much.
Brief summary:
Gabe is an MMA fighter and he meets Riley, a police officer. They become fuck buddies. Then comes Michael, a chef, who they both meet at different times and they are both attracted to him, then the three of them start sleeping together.
What I loved
First, i’m kind tired of reading about the typical plot where straight guy meets man, is attracted to him and then has a sexual crisis for 75% of the book. So I appreciated that Gabe always thought he’s straight but when he was attracted to a man for the first time, he didn’t have a sexuality crisis, he just went with it.
Second, I loved Riley, so much. Gabe and Michael were fine characters but a little underdevelopped. But Riley, man I love him so much. He a grumpy asshole and he was really dominant and kept giving Michael and Gabe orders. And everything about him was just so fucking hot to me.
Third, the sex scenes in this books were of very high quality. All of them were hot as fuck. Everything about them worked. From how rough the sex was, to Riley ordering everyone around, to doing the correct amount of prep before fucking someone, to the descriptions of how anal can be painful and it’s not just all fun the second you start doing it. All of it, just so good. I would have given this book 5 stars if there wasn’t a pesky, very confusing and over the top plot taking away from the sex scenes.
My niggles with the book, other than the reason why I stoped reading
First, the pacing was a bit off, there was lots of bizarre time cuts and the scenes felt a little unfinished, it felt like a lot of the scenes were rushed through and not explored enough.
Second, I never understood why the three of them got together in the first place. The relationship build up didn’t make much sense. It felt like these people just looked at each other and suddently knew the three of them wanted to be together, no one ever talked. The more and more the relationship progressed, no one ever talked about what they were doing or anything, they just had a lot of sex. I really couldn’t see why they wanted to be together, I didn’t get enough of them doing things together to see their connection.
Third, as we already established, I didn’t understand much of what was happening in the book, but damn was this book dramatic. There was way too much over the top drama for me.
Fourth, you know those commercials where you can buy two things and as an added bonus for a limited time they offer you something for free? Thats how Michael felt in their relationship. It didn’t feel like the three of them were an unit. It always felt like Riley and Gabe were way more important and a bigger part of the relationship and that Michael was just an added bonus and not as important or valuable as the rest.
If you don’t mind a lot of over the top drama and a plot that is really confusing, this book is worth it for the sex scenes alone, they’re the best.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
May 8, 2021
4 stars
I love a good menage story and while this one started slow on the relationship front, focusing more on the physical side, by the time the case part was finished and it concentrated on the relationship, I was well and truly hooked.
Riley and Gabe worked together amazingly even though they both were dominant, but probably wouldn’t have worked long term on their own for the same reason. The addition of Michael calmed the two and let them bounce off each other without it getting out of hand.
I liked Riley even though I felt he was the hardest to get to know. He was so closed off and at times acted like a robot without feelings and then something would happen and he would show in little ways he was paying attention and that he cared.
Michael was an easy character to like. He was like Eli in a lot of ways and was so easy going. I felt for him with the way things were with his brother, but he never took offence or worried about it, just took it all as it came. It was nice seeing the guys look and see him and only him.
Gabe to me was a harder character to like. He was so immature and kind of selfish, and while at times his banter could be funny and enjoyable, most times it just annoyed me and I wanted to slap him and tell him to be wake up to himself. Luckily Riley enjoyed the banter. I did understand his concerns with his career and how the relationship would effect that, but his continual denial got old.
Great follow up book. I would love to read more from these guys
***ARC provided by GRR. This is my voluntary review***
I love a good menage story and while this one started slow on the relationship front, focusing more on the physical side, by the time the case part was finished and it concentrated on the relationship, I was well and truly hooked.
Riley and Gabe worked together amazingly even though they both were dominant, but probably wouldn’t have worked long term on their own for the same reason. The addition of Michael calmed the two and let them bounce off each other without it getting out of hand.
I liked Riley even though I felt he was the hardest to get to know. He was so closed off and at times acted like a robot without feelings and then something would happen and he would show in little ways he was paying attention and that he cared.
Michael was an easy character to like. He was like Eli in a lot of ways and was so easy going. I felt for him with the way things were with his brother, but he never took offence or worried about it, just took it all as it came. It was nice seeing the guys look and see him and only him.
Gabe to me was a harder character to like. He was so immature and kind of selfish, and while at times his banter could be funny and enjoyable, most times it just annoyed me and I wanted to slap him and tell him to be wake up to himself. Luckily Riley enjoyed the banter. I did understand his concerns with his career and how the relationship would effect that, but his continual denial got old.
Great follow up book. I would love to read more from these guys
***ARC provided by GRR. This is my voluntary review***
April 13, 2021
I read Thicker Than Blood before I read this and it helps define the characters. This story also answers so much from the first book that I felt was a more a hfn than a hea. This is about Gabe’s story. This is a guy who is so different than his outward appearance. It also tells so much about how he meets Riley and Michael and the relationship between them. The book flow sure held my attention. The characters all end up being likable and so different from each other. The author did a great job of dealing with Havlin and his connection to Riley and the reasons he was a threat to Gabe and Michael. Also Gabe’s career success is recognized. I really was happy the author put the final answers about Daniel being a single dad and Eli’s fitting in. Since the author didn’t state what or if there were more coming to this series I’m hoping so. There are so many characters in Daniels Special Forces group that would make for great stories.
May 7, 2021
A book that not only has romance but also a bit of mystery. 3 men with completely different personalities.
At first I didn't like Riley because he was too detached, but little by little you realize that it is the facade that he wants to give but he really is a teddy bear. Gabe was my favorite, always speaking his mind and having no taboos to experience what he wanted, only near the end I was a little disappointed but he redeemed himself. And Michael, who is like the balance for the other 2, for being a little calmer but still saying that he wants to and knows when to stop.
The author makes you really believe in the relationship and immerse yourself in it, I would like to know more about them. My only BUT is that he says it can be read as standalone but I think that for you to really enjoy it 100 you must first read Thicker Than Blood.
I RECEIVED A COPY OF THIS BOOK FROM GAY ROMANCE REVIEWS, AND THIS IS MY HONEST REVIEW.
At first I didn't like Riley because he was too detached, but little by little you realize that it is the facade that he wants to give but he really is a teddy bear. Gabe was my favorite, always speaking his mind and having no taboos to experience what he wanted, only near the end I was a little disappointed but he redeemed himself. And Michael, who is like the balance for the other 2, for being a little calmer but still saying that he wants to and knows when to stop.
The author makes you really believe in the relationship and immerse yourself in it, I would like to know more about them. My only BUT is that he says it can be read as standalone but I think that for you to really enjoy it 100 you must first read Thicker Than Blood.
I RECEIVED A COPY OF THIS BOOK FROM GAY ROMANCE REVIEWS, AND THIS IS MY HONEST REVIEW.
May 6, 2021
Threads that Bind is a great addition to the Thicker than Blood series.
I really liked Gabe, Michael and Riley as a throuple. They balance each other out perfectly and make for a very happy union.
I enjoyed the family and friends part of this story. It adds so much depth and character to the story.
Lots of snarky humor and very little angst!
I really liked Gabe, Michael and Riley as a throuple. They balance each other out perfectly and make for a very happy union.
I enjoyed the family and friends part of this story. It adds so much depth and character to the story.
Lots of snarky humor and very little angst!
May 7, 2021
This is a great story that I could not put down. The characters are complex, and intriguing; the storyline is captivating leaving me wanting more. I do strongly suggest reading this series in order. This book starts where the previous book ended, and doesn’t give any real description of previously introduced characters or happenings. This has a little something for everyone from romance, mystery, and so much more.
May 8, 2021
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 2 in the Thicker Than Blood series, and I STRONGLY recommend you read book 1, Thicker Than Blood, before you read this one. There is a continuing story arc through the two books, and you need to be fully up to speed. That book was very nearly, so VERY nearly a five star read, too.
This one? I'd give it so many more than 5 stars if I could, I really would! I can't really tell you how much, so if my review runs away with itself, forgive me!
Gabe is Eli's best friend, brother in all but blood. When he meets Riley, the detective dealing with Eli's sister's case, he has a powerful reaction. One he never expected to have with a man. But he runs with it, cos, why not? Then both Riley and Gabe come across Michael, and two become three. But someone is out for revenge, and no one is safe.
I'm sitting here, staring at the page, trying to figure out where to start, and struggling! Ok, deep breathe, its only a review, Debbie, you can do this!
I lovd this book, I really did.
I think the thing I loved most about it, was the fact that Gabe wasn't really fazed by his reaction to Riley. He just ran with it. The reaction is powerful, soul wrenchingly deep and then to have a similar reaction to Michael? I expected Gabe to run, and run far and fast. But he doesn't. Neither does Riley, nor indeed, Michael. All three men just run with it. No one really questions how deep they feel for the others til something bad happens. But still they don't admit to anyone, not even themselves, just how much the feel, WHAT they feel.
When Gabe is faced with an age old promise, that's when he runs. Because he can't break that promise to his second oldest friend. He'd rather break his own heart, than theirs. And I wanted to punch that person so bad for making Gabe feel so bad, I really did! However, once they see just HOW bad they make Gabe feel, they do redeem themselves. It's just a matter of whether Gabe can redeem HIMSELF.
Michael, sweet boy that he is, takes everything in his stride. He knows that what they have is something special, but equally, he knows that it needs the three of them to work. So when Gabe does what he does, Michael does too. And poor Riley? He's left to pick himself up after both his loves walk away.
The attraction, as I said, between all three is powerful and deep, and the heat level in this book is off the freaking charts! Given that Gabe hasn't been with a man before, let alone 2, he takes well to it like a duck to water, and when Riley goes all "I'm in charge"? So freaking hawt!!
But aside from the steaminess, there is emotion here. Gabe and Riley, especially, are dealing with some things from their past, and I did NOT see Riley's coming at me! That threw me for a loop, so well played there!
I could rant and rave all day, but then I might start with spoilers, and I think I may have given too much away already, so I'll leave you with this.
READ THE DAMN BOOK (but read book one first!)
5 full and shiny stars, but more if I could.
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
This is book 2 in the Thicker Than Blood series, and I STRONGLY recommend you read book 1, Thicker Than Blood, before you read this one. There is a continuing story arc through the two books, and you need to be fully up to speed. That book was very nearly, so VERY nearly a five star read, too.
This one? I'd give it so many more than 5 stars if I could, I really would! I can't really tell you how much, so if my review runs away with itself, forgive me!
Gabe is Eli's best friend, brother in all but blood. When he meets Riley, the detective dealing with Eli's sister's case, he has a powerful reaction. One he never expected to have with a man. But he runs with it, cos, why not? Then both Riley and Gabe come across Michael, and two become three. But someone is out for revenge, and no one is safe.
I'm sitting here, staring at the page, trying to figure out where to start, and struggling! Ok, deep breathe, its only a review, Debbie, you can do this!
I lovd this book, I really did.
I think the thing I loved most about it, was the fact that Gabe wasn't really fazed by his reaction to Riley. He just ran with it. The reaction is powerful, soul wrenchingly deep and then to have a similar reaction to Michael? I expected Gabe to run, and run far and fast. But he doesn't. Neither does Riley, nor indeed, Michael. All three men just run with it. No one really questions how deep they feel for the others til something bad happens. But still they don't admit to anyone, not even themselves, just how much the feel, WHAT they feel.
When Gabe is faced with an age old promise, that's when he runs. Because he can't break that promise to his second oldest friend. He'd rather break his own heart, than theirs. And I wanted to punch that person so bad for making Gabe feel so bad, I really did! However, once they see just HOW bad they make Gabe feel, they do redeem themselves. It's just a matter of whether Gabe can redeem HIMSELF.
Michael, sweet boy that he is, takes everything in his stride. He knows that what they have is something special, but equally, he knows that it needs the three of them to work. So when Gabe does what he does, Michael does too. And poor Riley? He's left to pick himself up after both his loves walk away.
The attraction, as I said, between all three is powerful and deep, and the heat level in this book is off the freaking charts! Given that Gabe hasn't been with a man before, let alone 2, he takes well to it like a duck to water, and when Riley goes all "I'm in charge"? So freaking hawt!!
But aside from the steaminess, there is emotion here. Gabe and Riley, especially, are dealing with some things from their past, and I did NOT see Riley's coming at me! That threw me for a loop, so well played there!
I could rant and rave all day, but then I might start with spoilers, and I think I may have given too much away already, so I'll leave you with this.
READ THE DAMN BOOK (but read book one first!)
5 full and shiny stars, but more if I could.
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
April 11, 2021
ARC received for an honest review.
Gabe is a MMA fighter and self defense instructor. He's a horn dog and proud of it. He has been at crossroads with Riley since book one but doesn't deny himself the opportunity to have his first sexual relationship with a man. Riley is a detective and is investigating the murders of local women attributed to an old nemesis of his. He's cold and all about the job; that is until he meets Gabe. These two can't keep their hands off each other, even as they rub each other the wrong way. Arguing is the best foreplay for these two. On one of Riley's rare days off he comes across a young man who's under the influence of drugs and takes him to jail. When Gabe comes to see Riley he notices Michael, a recent self defense pupil, in the waiting room. It's revealed that Riley has arrested Michael's twin brother Oscar. Gabe goes to comfort Michael and keeps him company awaiting Oscar's release. A few night later Gabe, Michael and Riley all run into each other at a club and decide to let their mutual attraction take it's natural coarse. These three men couldn't possibly be any different. Gabe is loud, brass and pushy. Riley is cold and dominant. Michael is shy and reserved. Will this unlikely trio work out or will they burn out the attraction faster than they get started?
This is a well written book with no notable errors in punctuation, grammar or spelling. It flows well from page to page from start to finish. I was hooked from page one and didn't want to put it down. The three men have great chemistry between them, as well as with the other people in their individual lives. There are a lot of supporting characters that you get just a taste of their stories and left me wanting more. I definitely hope this author has more books planned in this series. I highly recommend this book for anyone who likes MMM, murder mystery, romance and low angst.
Gabe is a MMA fighter and self defense instructor. He's a horn dog and proud of it. He has been at crossroads with Riley since book one but doesn't deny himself the opportunity to have his first sexual relationship with a man. Riley is a detective and is investigating the murders of local women attributed to an old nemesis of his. He's cold and all about the job; that is until he meets Gabe. These two can't keep their hands off each other, even as they rub each other the wrong way. Arguing is the best foreplay for these two. On one of Riley's rare days off he comes across a young man who's under the influence of drugs and takes him to jail. When Gabe comes to see Riley he notices Michael, a recent self defense pupil, in the waiting room. It's revealed that Riley has arrested Michael's twin brother Oscar. Gabe goes to comfort Michael and keeps him company awaiting Oscar's release. A few night later Gabe, Michael and Riley all run into each other at a club and decide to let their mutual attraction take it's natural coarse. These three men couldn't possibly be any different. Gabe is loud, brass and pushy. Riley is cold and dominant. Michael is shy and reserved. Will this unlikely trio work out or will they burn out the attraction faster than they get started?
This is a well written book with no notable errors in punctuation, grammar or spelling. It flows well from page to page from start to finish. I was hooked from page one and didn't want to put it down. The three men have great chemistry between them, as well as with the other people in their individual lives. There are a lot of supporting characters that you get just a taste of their stories and left me wanting more. I definitely hope this author has more books planned in this series. I highly recommend this book for anyone who likes MMM, murder mystery, romance and low angst.
May 7, 2021
Second books in a series can sometimes be a let down, especially when the first book is truly amazing, but Threads That Bind does not disappoint and it is not just an afterthought to Thicker Than Blood. Gabe was so angry and Riley was so cold when we first met them, I did not see how anything could bring those two together, let alone allow them to find some happiness. Michael was the answer all along. I loved the dynamic between Gabe, Riley, and Michael throughout the book but their individual connections to each other was so important. Though events in Threads That Bind build on the storyline from Thicker Than Blood, the story centers on the relationship of these three very different men and how they are able to be exactly what the others need to be their best. Riley's connection to the man hunting them was surprising and his story, when he finally lets Gabe and Michael all the way in, is heartbreaking. Gabe, as much as he is a loveable and loyal character, is so frustrating at times, making decisions that destroy not only his happiness but Michael and Riley's as well. Even though he was not previously introduced in book one, Michael is the truly the thread that binds Gabe and Riley together. While they are able to make a physical relationship work without Michael, Gabe and Riley know that Michael is the heart of their connection. Through the worry, fear, and heartbreak, Riley, Michael, and Gabe find their way back to each other, proving they really are stronger and better together than they ever could be apart. I loved getting to check in with favorite characters from book one and see all the amazing things happening in their lives. Loved both books of this series and hope we see more from this author and these characters! Highly recommend! I received an ARC for an honest and fair review.
May 18, 2021
I m not a big fan of MMM, I read them from time to time if something picks my interest but it s not my first choice. This didn t start well with me, just bc Riley and Gabe s meeting and first sex encounter was so unprofessional on Riley s part it put me off. They also, both seemed more aggressive than fun as a couple. Slowly tho, their repertoire became so funny, the dynamic between these 2 was amazing with both of them basically Alphas but different, both had strong individual personalities. Gabe s easy way of just trying anything new without question was great. Then you add Michael who was the perfect balance for these 2 hotheads. I just loved their personalities and how they completed eachother. My heart broke for Riley in the end when Gabe was being stupid, Michael wasn t better either. A bit more groveling from both would have been good, but Gabe was sincere and his apology was pretty desperate. The banter between Gabe and Riley is fantastic, there is humor all around but Gabe being annoying to piss Riley of and the lather acting like he barely tolerates Gabe but being considerate and buying Gabe s fave tea at the same time was great to read and imagine. I don t remember loving an MMM as much as this. Terrific book.
Gabe trying to convince Michael to give them another shot was something like "Riley s personality isn t that great so we don t have to worry ab him straying"😂😂 so many funny one liners.
Gabe trying to convince Michael to give them another shot was something like "Riley s personality isn t that great so we don t have to worry ab him straying"😂😂 so many funny one liners.
July 19, 2021
4.5*
This was such a good book and if you don't want to be lost in certain areas, you definitely need to read the 1st one before this one. I loved the relationship with Gabe and Riley. It was so push and pull and everything they both needed in each other. And I love that Gabe just jumped in even though he was technically 'straight'. I can even see where he meets Michael at work and helps train him some and being attracted to him. Michael has that personally that you just can't help but love. You just want to hold him forever and call it a day. My only problem with the whole thing, is because Gabe is so impulsive, it caused them to really never TALK. Oh, sure. They had conversations and stuff spent time together, bit they never took the time to have THE talk and establish who they were with and within each other. and because of it, things tooka whole different twist. Which was good in a way, because it made Gabe realize what he truly wanted. BUT, often times it felt like there was no real......flow?....to them. Which part of is because of the psycho messing with them. Bit it just seems like they jumped together and I don't know. I love their relationship. They definitely have their own quirks that make the relationship interesting. But it's still a good one and I'm so ready to drive into the next one.
This was such a good book and if you don't want to be lost in certain areas, you definitely need to read the 1st one before this one. I loved the relationship with Gabe and Riley. It was so push and pull and everything they both needed in each other. And I love that Gabe just jumped in even though he was technically 'straight'. I can even see where he meets Michael at work and helps train him some and being attracted to him. Michael has that personally that you just can't help but love. You just want to hold him forever and call it a day. My only problem with the whole thing, is because Gabe is so impulsive, it caused them to really never TALK. Oh, sure. They had conversations and stuff spent time together, bit they never took the time to have THE talk and establish who they were with and within each other. and because of it, things tooka whole different twist. Which was good in a way, because it made Gabe realize what he truly wanted. BUT, often times it felt like there was no real......flow?....to them. Which part of is because of the psycho messing with them. Bit it just seems like they jumped together and I don't know. I love their relationship. They definitely have their own quirks that make the relationship interesting. But it's still a good one and I'm so ready to drive into the next one.
August 6, 2021
We met Gabe and Riley in the previous book and I don't know about anyone else, but my eyebrows were definitely up in book 1 at how Gabe reacted to the stone-cold cop. I'm a sucker for the characters where a tragic backstory is even so much as hinted at, so I was definitely here for whatever Riley was bringing to the table. Michael was the sugar to round out the salt and spice combo and soften all the rough edges of the other two.
I'm really picky with M/M/M because some of them never really get past the point where it is just a relationship between two with a third added in that doesn't really add anything outside of the sexual dynamics. With this relationship, it was easy to see that while all of them obviously had chemistry in bed, they worked better together. There would have only been a few situations where only two of them could have worked and they never would have been as *good* as all three were together.
Throw in Gabe and Riley's pasts, both wildly different, coming at their HEA like a freight train, and I devoured the back half of this book in one sitting instead of sleeping. Sometimes what you need is so different to what you thought you'd have, and Gabe and Riley take you on that journey of realisation with them. Michael, my little cream puff with a spine of steel, definitely has his hands full going forward!
I'm really picky with M/M/M because some of them never really get past the point where it is just a relationship between two with a third added in that doesn't really add anything outside of the sexual dynamics. With this relationship, it was easy to see that while all of them obviously had chemistry in bed, they worked better together. There would have only been a few situations where only two of them could have worked and they never would have been as *good* as all three were together.
Throw in Gabe and Riley's pasts, both wildly different, coming at their HEA like a freight train, and I devoured the back half of this book in one sitting instead of sleeping. Sometimes what you need is so different to what you thought you'd have, and Gabe and Riley take you on that journey of realisation with them. Michael, my little cream puff with a spine of steel, definitely has his hands full going forward!
May 8, 2021
4 stars
Here I lost my menage virgity.
This is the first MMM book I've read, and now I can't get enough.
I alwasy shyed away from menage books, just automatically believed I'll be uncomfortable with the uneven dynamics but I couldn't have been wrong.
This book was smokin hot, but what sold me was the dynamics between Riley, Gabe, and Micheal. Gabe is hotheaded and firey, Riley is cool as ice, and Micheal is sweet and even tempered. I never thought I'll say that, but the three of them together balanced each other out in a way that was perfect.
What I loved is how everyone has a very distinguished personality. Riley is a police detective and he has a resting poker face and he appears from the outside that he's cold and unfeeling, but Gabe's hot temper melted through that exterior and they clashed together explosively, only slowing and evening out for Michael who is sweet and precious and both of them just dot on.
I'll be honest here and say I felt that Riley and Gabe shared a stronger bond than with Michael. Michael is sweet but a bit too sweet for my taste, but like i said, he was perfect when he's with Riley and Gabe.
The plot and action parts was a bit out there, but ehh, still love it.
Here I lost my menage virgity.
This is the first MMM book I've read, and now I can't get enough.
I alwasy shyed away from menage books, just automatically believed I'll be uncomfortable with the uneven dynamics but I couldn't have been wrong.
This book was smokin hot, but what sold me was the dynamics between Riley, Gabe, and Micheal. Gabe is hotheaded and firey, Riley is cool as ice, and Micheal is sweet and even tempered. I never thought I'll say that, but the three of them together balanced each other out in a way that was perfect.
What I loved is how everyone has a very distinguished personality. Riley is a police detective and he has a resting poker face and he appears from the outside that he's cold and unfeeling, but Gabe's hot temper melted through that exterior and they clashed together explosively, only slowing and evening out for Michael who is sweet and precious and both of them just dot on.
I'll be honest here and say I felt that Riley and Gabe shared a stronger bond than with Michael. Michael is sweet but a bit too sweet for my taste, but like i said, he was perfect when he's with Riley and Gabe.
The plot and action parts was a bit out there, but ehh, still love it.
May 10, 2021
Gabe and Riley are both very intense men. Although Gabe had not to the point of the beginning of this story been with men meeting Riley and his own desire not to deprive himself made him go for it. Riley is all about his job as a detective and where Gabe is volatile, Riley is cold and flinty but together they burn. As much as the attraction draws them together they also strike off one another because they are both so dominant and wanting to have things there own way. When they meet Michael who is a lot more low key and chill than the two of them, they find the perfect third to balance their intensity. Their story is engaging from the first page and kept my attention as they added on - it starts with Gabe and Riley and then Michael. It was a well written homage to a triple that works together and as a part of their social circle - there are good supportive other characters as well - and the ways that they work on balancing the needs of each man and keeping things interesting between them. Since I read the first book in this series I appreciated the resolution of the mystery that started in that book but I was glad their story was not subsumed with that. This trio was a pleasure to spend time and focus on.
I received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.
I received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.
April 21, 2021
This second book ticked all my boxes, the first book was good but this one I enjoyed more. It had all my favourite troupes I love to read, mmm, mystery, danger and angst. I loved the relationship of all three, Michael and Riley are more serious and quiet and Gabe is the bridge that brings the light heartedness and fun to the relationship. It was intriguing to see the dynamic of this romance and though it seems Gabe seems to be the glue to the relationship I still felt we had a good relationship between the characters and their personalities. I liked that even though Gabe splits from them because of a promise the women wasn't automatically vilified but that it was nicely resolved. We also had danger from a characters past that brought a bit of tenseness to the plot as well as previous characters making cameo appearances which was nice. This was an entertaining read with suspenseful moments and deep connections between characters that was a joy to read about, definitely will 're read again and be on the look out for more from this author.
I received this book by the author and this is my honest opinion.
I received this book by the author and this is my honest opinion.
April 27, 2021
Wow, This is one of the Best MMM Dynamics I have Ever read! and I have read a lot! This book has everything Family, Friends, Action, Steamy Times, Angst, Humor, Love.... It is told from all three of their POV's so you are pulled in by each of them and their actions and emotions. Gabe and Riley in the beginning, the sarcasm and Gabe goading Riley was fabulously fun and hot! They are just too much for each other and then the way they find Michael and he just completes them!! The Serious Detective, the Fun Loving UFC Fighter and the Sweet Adorable Chef!!!! It is insta chemistry and the more they are together and the more they go through the feelings and their relationship just naturally happens! There is a lot of action in the story and Oscar, Simon, Eli, Daniel and others from book one play an integral part in this story as well! I received an ARC of this book and I cannot recommend this highly enough! This book is exciting, fun, heartwarming, steamy, angsty all balanced perfectly together! I happy cried at the epilogue! it was Beautiful! I hope there are more books coming in this series!!
May 11, 2021
Seriously intense! Gabe is full of suppressed anger. He goes into MMA to validate his strength and pleasures himself with women. DS Riley, has a protective wall around his heart a mile high. He devotes his life to his job. Michael is a chef who lives under the shadow of his twin brother Oscar. Gabe, Riley and Michael are individually carrying some heavy luggage. Collectively, they need a Uhaul! Gabe had an unexpectedly intense reaction and attraction to Riley. They moved to intense and volatile quickly. Provocation made their emotions more intense. Michael met the two, when he was dealing with Oscar's issues. They are 180 different than each other, and 1/3 of each other. The journey to finding their balance and their place is absolutely amazing. Eli and Daniel are back. There are lots of internal struggles and decisions to make. The book is exciting in all that is going on an all everyone brings to the relationship. The challenges are threefold, can the guys wade through it? Can they accept each other? Can they accept themselves? Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 26, 2021
Threads that Bind is the second book in the Thicker than Blood series by author Alice C. Crane. This book should be read in order. There are characters from the previous book you should really know.
Gabe he is loyal, kind, loud, will tell you what he thinks. If you piss him off he will show you attitude for days.
I personally liked him. He is a very you see what you get kinda guy.
Detective Riley A. Sykes or just Riley. He is the cool to Gabe’s fire. Profession, seemingly heartless, driven, and dominant to his core.
Then there is the glue that binds these men together Michael. He is the twin never picked first. He is the wallflower to his more popular brother. He is a chef, shy, and reserved. But once you get to know him he feels deeply and truly.
I loved this book. It is a great addition to the series. I also liked how this book moves the series along. Great pacing, and characters I never wanted to let go of it. I hope there is more to this series I would be in line to get it.
Five Shooting Stars
Gabe he is loyal, kind, loud, will tell you what he thinks. If you piss him off he will show you attitude for days.
I personally liked him. He is a very you see what you get kinda guy.
Detective Riley A. Sykes or just Riley. He is the cool to Gabe’s fire. Profession, seemingly heartless, driven, and dominant to his core.
Then there is the glue that binds these men together Michael. He is the twin never picked first. He is the wallflower to his more popular brother. He is a chef, shy, and reserved. But once you get to know him he feels deeply and truly.
I loved this book. It is a great addition to the series. I also liked how this book moves the series along. Great pacing, and characters I never wanted to let go of it. I hope there is more to this series I would be in line to get it.
Five Shooting Stars
May 6, 2021
Threads that Bind is the second book of this series and it’s really good! This book is a MMM, enemies to lovers, with a good mystery, angst and a HEA! I loved the relationship between Michael, Riley and Gabe, all of them with different personalities but they blend together really good, Michael is more serious and quiet, Gabe is fun and mouthy he is the one that brings the fun and lightness in their relationship and Riley is the serious guy and the protector. These guys have a great chemistry and I love the dynamic of their romance and hot damn the sexy scenes are super steamy! We also had a very amount of drama because of Riley job as a detective, the mystery of the story is great! This was an entertaining read with a little angst moments and good connections between characters, this was a great book to read. I highly recommended this book!
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
May 11, 2021
I liked this book much better than the first. Gabe was unbearable in Thicker than Blood. And though he started off that way in Threads that Bind, he eventually became a likable character. I enjoyed that he was able to break through Riley’s defenses and that he orchestrated bringing Michael in. I was glued to the book as soon as they all went out together for the first time. And plus the sex scenes were HOT. Once everything was over with the bad guy I was thinking “whew! Bring on the happily ever after!” Then I looked down and the book was only at 86%. Then I was thinking I could handle that much extra sexy, happy times between the three of them. Dammit Gabe. But everything works out in the end, thank goodness. So, if you like MMM, a grump turned softy, an adorable, sweet shorty and a sometimes likable dummy who is somehow the glue that holds them all together, this book is worth the read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2021
Nothing like a well written MMM to keep you drawn to a story.
Very intense relationship between them. Two dominant personalities fighting against one another and one who could bring balance among all three.
Gabe, who though he was mostly interested in women, met Riley - who rocked his world and his bedroom. Michael is a twin, who is used to be in the shadow of his sibling. Only there are two men who desire him. Gabe and Riley refuse to let Michael see himself as anything but their completed throuple.
Secrets of the past make a comeback and threaten to tear apart all they've built. Finding their way back won't be easy, but realizing what's important is the only means of their desired ending between an MMA fighter, a detective and a chef.
**I received this ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for my honest feedback. **
Very intense relationship between them. Two dominant personalities fighting against one another and one who could bring balance among all three.
Gabe, who though he was mostly interested in women, met Riley - who rocked his world and his bedroom. Michael is a twin, who is used to be in the shadow of his sibling. Only there are two men who desire him. Gabe and Riley refuse to let Michael see himself as anything but their completed throuple.
Secrets of the past make a comeback and threaten to tear apart all they've built. Finding their way back won't be easy, but realizing what's important is the only means of their desired ending between an MMA fighter, a detective and a chef.
**I received this ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for my honest feedback. **
May 21, 2021
I was so happy these characters got to be in their own book as 2 of them from book 1 were incredibly funny and formed an instant connection. Sizzling chemistry and such a puzzle of a trio that shouldn't work but it does bur not without pain, suffering and hard work. Dramatic times interlaced with passion and a shocking connection to the big bad of this story. Michael was lovely, sweet and just adorable while Gabe frustrated me at the end with his lack of thought but he was troubled and didn't know how to ask for help and Riley, grumpy, hard work but protective. This author has shot straight to my top 10 favourites with her ability to pull you in, make you emotionally invested in her characters and hiw unpredictable they are. Fantastic story for which I hope we get more from.
July 20, 2021
This book could have worked as a romantic suspense featuring just a relationship between Gabe and Riley, who burned hotly in a speedrun enemies-to-lovers romance that I quite enjoyed. However, the inclusion of Michael in their dynamic is probably what allowed the entire story to not burn out too fast. Riley's past brings the tense external conflict, and Gabe's past brings the true dark moment. I ended up way more emotionally invested in these characters and their story than I expected, but I loved every moment (even when in tears over them). I'm not sure where this series will go next, but I hope that I still get time with these men in order to check on their much-deserved happily ever after.
April 18, 2021
I devoured this book in a day straight after thicker than blood. Definately a new fan of Alice Cranes stories.
I loved Gabe, Michael and Riley as a throuple. They each balanced the others out. Gabe and Riley need Michaels calm amd steady presence to ground them, and Gabe needs Riley to be the forceful partner to rein him in where nessecary. Gabe is the playful one, who offers both Rilry and Michael new experiences.
Both Riley and Gabe have their issues from a young age, it has steered them in the way they lived their lives and controls the trust they offer. Yet both men fall for the quiet, shy Michael easily
I loved Gabe, Michael and Riley as a throuple. They each balanced the others out. Gabe and Riley need Michaels calm amd steady presence to ground them, and Gabe needs Riley to be the forceful partner to rein him in where nessecary. Gabe is the playful one, who offers both Rilry and Michael new experiences.
Both Riley and Gabe have their issues from a young age, it has steered them in the way they lived their lives and controls the trust they offer. Yet both men fall for the quiet, shy Michael easily
April 21, 2021
Alice is my new go to author, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this series and hope there’s more to come. The families and friends are awesome, Riley and Gabe came together in the first book and Michael in this one, Michael is an absolute sweetheart and compliments Riley and Gabe. So much happens in this storyline I couldn’t put it down, heartwarming, at times wanted to throttle them, snarky humour, little angst when Gabe thinks he has to do the right thing, no spoilers.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I absolutely recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I absolutely recommend this book.
May 8, 2021
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
I read Thicker than Blood first and this story perfectly ties it up in my opinion! This book was such a great addition to the series!
I was beyond excited to read Gabe’s story! I adored him and his protective self in the first book!
This book was amazing! I loved how all 3 men were so different and they came together so beautifully! They truly brought out the absolute best in each other!
I am absolutely in love with this series and I truly hope it continues!
5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend!! 🤩🤩
I read Thicker than Blood first and this story perfectly ties it up in my opinion! This book was such a great addition to the series!
I was beyond excited to read Gabe’s story! I adored him and his protective self in the first book!
This book was amazing! I loved how all 3 men were so different and they came together so beautifully! They truly brought out the absolute best in each other!
I am absolutely in love with this series and I truly hope it continues!
5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend!! 🤩🤩
April 28, 2021
I received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews. I love Gabe's story with his two men... Riley and Michael. Gabe and Riley met first and had a fiery instant lust reaction. Gabe is mouthy while Riley is bossy. The pseudo enemies-to-lovers vibe is one of my faves. I didn't expect Michael to come into the relationship but he balances out Gabe and Riley with his nurturing, sweet way. This book can standalone but it's better enjoyed after reading the first book because the plot continues from the first book, though it's a different couple.
May 14, 2021
MMM books are usually great and this one didn't disappoint me either. The three men, Gabe, Riley and Michael are all very different in temperament. Gabe is a player, wants to have fun and is straight. Riley is ice cold and super serious. Michael is shy and quiet. Put them all together and you have hotness overload. There is danger from the characters pasts to deal with. Cameo appearances from characters that were in the previous book. This is a very intense book that is told in all three of their point of views. Enjoy.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
May 14, 2021
Gabe is an MMA fighter and a self-defense instructor. Riley is a detective and is investigating the murders of local women. Michael is a recent self-defense pupil of Gabe’s. When Michael’s brother is arrested by Riley, Gabe comforts Michael while he waits for his brother to be released. They all run into each other at a club and let their mutual attraction take course. This is a well written book; it flows well from start to finish. The three men have great chemistry between them as well as with the other people in their lives. I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
April 23, 2021
One guy who is a workaholic and vows never to let his heart get broken again, one guy who thinks he's only attracted to women and one who has always been the twin who never sought nor got attention come together and find they perfectly complement each other and want to share their lives. We root for them all the way as they overcome all sorts of obstacles - some emotional and some serious outside threats. This is a gem of an MMM romance.
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