Love Me Again

Stonewall Investigations: Blue Creek #1

by Max Walker

No one’s fast enough to outrun grief.

Trust me, I’ve tried. I ran away from the city and took a job as the lead detective back in my old home town of Blue Creek, New Hampshire. I expected to bump into past ghosts, but I never expected those ghosts to reopen old wounds.

The biggest ghost of them Charlie Marsh. The man who pushed me out of this town in the first place.

He was also the man who had stolen my heart when we were teens, and who now couldn’t even remember a single day we had spent together.

Which makes it exceptionally awkward when he becomes my first client. An accident stole seven years of my memories, robbing me of experiences, lessons, people.

It robbed me of my first love. I couldn’t remember who Austin even was, much less when and where we shared our first kiss. So when I bumped into the most jaw-droppingly handsome man I’d ever seen, I had no idea we already shared an entire galaxy’s worth of history between us.

Second chances aren’t always easy, and this one only gets more complicated after finding out that my ‘accident’ wasn’t an accident at all, and it seems like someone wants to finish the job.

Good thing I’ve got a hot detective’s number on speed-dial.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Mystery, Second Chance, Audiobook, LGBT, Contemporary

286 pages, Paperback

First published July 2, 2021

Reviews

[Megan [At The Cottage] · Rating 2 out of 5]

MM Romance
Second Chance Mystery Crime Thing
2 Stars ⭐️

This book bored the fuck out of me so much that I fell asleep writing this review and then my phone did some auto update and I lost everything I had written. Grrr 🤬 I should have DNF’d this but I wanted to know if I had it all figured out and spoiler alert, it was just as predictable as I thought it was. Blahhh.

I love the amnesia trope when done right and the sample of this was promising. Austin moves back to Blue Creek after his fiancé dies to open a new branch of his investigation business. The first day there he runs into his ex Charlie and Austin is not happy to see him. Charlie broke Austin’s heart years ago and is the reason he left town to begin with. However, Charlie has no idea who Austin is because a few years ago he had a near death accident that wiped his memory clean and there’s a slim to none chance of him ever getting it back. However, Charlie’s accident may have not been an accident at all and Austin is determined to find out the truth.

I tried to put myself in Austin’s shoes like WTF would I do in this kind of situation? Austin and Charlie were each other’s first everything’s but it’s obvious whatever happened at the end had a profound heartbreaking effect on both of their lives. If I ran into my first love and he was flirting with me like we never met before and had no recollection of our entire relationship, I would feel a bit floored. Would I be able to try again with him when he didn’t have all the pieces but I remembered all the shitty things that happened? I have no fucking idea and as this book went on, I found it harder to believe in their relationship.

Then there’s the whole subplot of Charlie’s accident not being an accident and that part was so ungodly fucking boring my eyes were glazing over. I love true crime documentaries and shows like CSI but this case was so lackluster. I just couldn’t care less about any of it and it affected my overall feelings towards this book.

And then, the amnesia that had slim to no chance of ever resolving does in the most ridiculous and predictable way. I just wanted to slam my head against the wall because he only gets back the parts of him and Austin, not the ones of who tried to kill him until much later. Of course.

And then, even though Austin had built his house like a fortress to protect Charlie from someone finishing the job, that someone was able to breach the inside and kidnap Charlie anyway. So much for having a state of the art security system. Please remind me not to hire this company to protect me. FFS 🤦🏻‍♀️

My other issue with this book was Austin’s dead fiancé. Have I mentioned how much I hate this trope? Because Austin would have never moved back to Blue Creek and reunited with Charlie had this fiancé lived. And the fiancé died only 4 months before he was with Charlie again from a freak accident and while his inner monologues mentioned how much he loved his fiancé, he also mentions waking up next to the fiancé and feeling bad thinking about Charlie’s eyes and wondering why he can’t let go after all this time. WTF.

So, this was just too boring, too predictable, too ridiculous and I skimmed through a lot of the sex scenes because they were mehhh and I had no attachment to either main character. They both felt superficial as did their relationship.

2022 has been like one bad read after another. I’ve never given so many books 2 & 3 stars before. 😩😩

[Gustaf · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this, but I didn't love it as much as I loved the original series and I didn't like it as much as I liked the first spin-off series.

What I really enjoyed was Austin and Charlie's second chance. It was all kind of sweet and I could feel that the two of them really did belong together. Even if Charlie should've had some more asking for forgiveness to do. The mystery part though, didn't really work. It felt a bit sloppy and I could very much tell who the bad guy was as soon as they were introduced.

Maybe this is a case of taking things a little too far?

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the Stonewall Investigation series that was set in New York, so I was very excited to see that the series was going to continue, but in a new location, New Hampshire. Austin and Charlie’s second chance at love was going to be, without a doubt, a big challenge. I wondered what Austin was going to do when Charlie returned into his life. This was the man who not only ripped his heart out but stomped on it and then left town. He was willing to listen to Charlie and was really glad he did because it turns out that Charlie had had a terrible accident and didn’t even remember Austin... the man he had spent three years of his life with. Their journey of re-discovery and falling in love again was up and down but headed for fantastic. Someone in Blue Creek didn't want Austin remembering anything and was determined that his stay would be short and if possible, fatal. As with all Max Walker’s books there is lots of hot and steamy sex worked around an interesting plot. There is a twist at the end that you never see comings but will make you anxiously await book #2.

[Brooke · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️ 2.5 stars ⭐️

The start was promising, I find amnesia tropes to be really fascinating — alas the ending didn’t really hold up.

The mystery was okay, but pretty predictable.
Really enjoyed the main characters and their relationship, but not enough to give it a higher rating.

CW and tropes:
- MC with retrograde amnesia
- Detective MC
- MC dealing with grief
- Second chance
- Vers MCs

[Kati *☆･ﾟ]

*** no rating ***
dnf @50%


This was an unusual second-chance romance. And while this story was touching and had a promising premise the storytelling couldn’t keep me interested. Not even Greg B. narrating could save it for me this time.


Austin is leaving the big city after his beloved fiancé died way too young and comes back to the small town where he went to college. It’s also the place where he got his heart crushed bad by his first love.

When they meet again after eight years passed, Charlie doesn’t remember Austin and what he’d done to him. He’s been in a serious accident a few years ago where he lost parts of his memory. The parts that involve Austin.

Charlie ends up being the first client for Stonewall Investigations in Blue Creek as rumor has it Charlie’s accident might not have been an accident at all.


*the audio was free with my audible subscription

***********
Stonewall Investigations: Blue Creek Series

Book 1 - Love Me Again - dnf
Book 2 - Ride the Wreck
Book 3 - Whatever It Takes

This is a spin-off to the “Stonewall Investigation” series.

[SC · Rating 1 out of 5]

The second I saw this pop up as a recommendation, I should have checked my GR, but nooo, and now here we are. Took me a while to get through this book, why ? Because it’s incredibly boring. It literally put me to sleep every time I picked it up. See, had I checked, I would have known that this author is not for me. The writing style, the predictably, the scenes that are supposed to be spicy and sexy, but gross me out a little because really, who wants spit left and right ? At the 39% mark, I already knew I was going to basically skip it all and maybe just read the dialogue. Someone sent me one of his TT thinking I’d like this author …. Ummmm. No. Hard pass. But thanks and I’m glad there’s so many other people who enjoy his books, I however have been spoiled by other (better IMO) authors.

[KP · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was a huge let down for me. The premise is great, and I love a second chance romance. But, I had a lot of problems with this.

First, this author seriously needs a better editor. There are tons of continuity and plotting issues that yank the reader right out of the story and definitely mess with your enjoyment level. Second, to make a good second chance romance I need two things: 1. There needs to be a good reason that they separated, and 2. I need to believe that they worked through them to find their HEA. And, I didn't get that here. Charlie treated Austin abominably - like screaming slurs at him abominably - and Austin just like, forgives him because Charlie can't remember? There doesn't seem to be any really working through of issues or groveling. Third, Austin was engaged until his fiancé died a few months before he moved to Blue Creek, and basically just forgets about him once he sees Charlie again. And lastly, the setting doesn't really make sense. It's a tiny town, but can host/support a 3 story arcade and a private investigation company? Small towns don't work that way.

This could have been great, unfortunately it was kinda a mess.

[Erin]

Fool that I am, I didn't notice this was another Stonewall book and then when I did, I couldn't remember if I'd actually read any of the other Stonewall books. Turns out that I have - read one and skimmed another. I love me a good amnesia story but this one didn't do it for me, and not even because of silly amnesia stuff. The "investigative" part of the various Stonewall Investigation books is usually pretty weak and this was no exception. Why bother including a mystery if it's going to be so lackluster? I need to remind myself to quit picking up Max Walker books because a pleasant read will inevitably turn into a skim.

[Ronie Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Talk about a shoot in the dark, hitting the side of a bar. All because of observant residents.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable mystery which kept me guessing to the end, although it did come as a bit of a surprise as to the guilty party.
I think I am going to enjoy this series.

[Angel Davis · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m sorry. I hated it :/
Nothing really made sense while also being completely predictable. Normally even if a story is predictable there’s a moment where you’ll think “actually it might be…” but no not really.
Is Austin even a real detective? It just gave someone trying too hard to be Sherlock Holmes for me. He didn’t really even use any of the information that he received.
Also I know that Charlie was in an accident and lost his memory and I get wanting to put things in the past, but boy was over here presumably with a ring the night that Charlie got snatched after like a month of being back together like five months after his other fiancé was killed? Huh? What? Even if someone’s your first love or whatever, if someone you were about to get married to gets killed you aren’t gonna be able to marry someone else that fast, especially after you had a falling out as big as you did. It was just a little much. He went from crying uncontrollably and not being able to sleep in his bed and having to move states, to having a new boyfriend? It would’ve made more sense if he continued to show more grief over Dean but homeboy was forgotten and if he was mentioned it was like oh yeah he existed but I’ve always been in love with Charlie and that’s just how the cookie crumbles and this was meant to happen. WHAT?

Also there were multiple continuity errors. Hanks body being found by a lake then a pool. Austin being naked in a scene then all of a sudden having on boxers, etc. And a bunch of sentences were awkward to read or didn’t make sense. I had to push through the last 25% of the book only because I thought the ending “plot twist” was gonna be a real winner to save the book but nothing really happened at all.

I just couldn’t connect with the characters and so it made it difficult for me to understand what they were going through/ why they were being certain ways and wanting to support them. I guess this author just wasn’t for me.

[Darrel Oglesby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Me Again is the latest in the Stonewall Investigations world this one is a spin-off taking us to their new offices in the small New England town of Blue Creek. Our lead detective Austin is returning to Blue Creek, a place that he fled because a broken heart, in hopes that a new business and a fresh start will mend his once again broken heart. Charlie the golden haired local boy spends his day working in the local pet shop in the small town where not much ever happens. After a freak accident Charlie is left without a chunk of memory, memories that include Austin and would explain why the hunky detective hates his guts. After awkwardness and little time together Austin decides to investigate Charlie’s accident to find out what really happened. Digging up the past and delving into what really happens in small towns when no one is looking takes these two on a journey of forgiveness, reclaimed friendship, and right into love. As with all of the Stonewall books expect some twist, turns, surprises, in a “who done it” that leads right into an HEA.

[Mrs.V · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do I love second chances? Yes, so much, it’s my absolute favourite trope! Add in memory loss, which erased seven years from Charlie’s memories (and with that, any trace of Austin). Add to that Max Walker’s brand of mystery and action and you’ve got a great book to lose yourself in!
If you have read and loved the author’s Stonewall Investigation series you know to expect the perfect mix of adrenalin and romance and this keeps on perfectly in this new book, which is a sort of a spinoff transporting the LGBTQ+-friendly investigation agency into the small town world.

[Aղցela W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was book 1 in the "Stonewall Investigations: Blue Creek" series. Austin Romero is back home in Blue Creek, New Hampshire after taking a job as a lead detective. Charlie Marsh was in an accident that stole seven years of my memories, robbing me of experiences, lessons, people including his first love. This was a really good read hearing their stories was heartbreaking. Turns out Charlie is the reason that Austin left Blue Creek, Austin has some anger about the thing's in his past. With this second chance both are making the most and Austin was willing to do what he has to in order to keep Charlie safe. This was my first time reading this author. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

[tappkalina]

DNF at chapter 8

[Frank Chillura (OhYouRead) · Rating 4 out of 5]

•Small Town
•Second Chance Romance
•Private Investigator
•Mystery
•SPICY AF!!!!
•Oh!!!! And very very GAY!

[Jennifer Reilley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love me again by max Walker
this is a second chance love of Charlie and Austin when Austin returns home to open another Stonewall Investigation office.

Sparks fly when they reunite but Charlie is missing a part of his life and Austin

This was a great story including two very sweet men that were destined to be together. Can’t fight destiny. Throw in a suspense to find out who killing and injuring in Blue Creek.

[Kera’s Always Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

After a tragic loss, Austin heads back to his hometown where he has taken a detective job. He never expected to immediately bump into a ghost from his past, especially when that ghost from his past is still just as handsome as ever and seems to have no recollection of their time together or Austin at all.

After a horrible accident, Charlie is left with a years of his memories completely ripped away from him. When the sexy new detective arrives in Blue Creek, he is intrigued but not surprised to learn that they have history together.

Now, with the two of them back in each other's lives, things heat up between them. It pays to be friends with the new detective, too, considering there is nobody better to get to the bottom of Charlie's accident and what really happened that tore so much away from the man.

This was a fast paced and very sweet romantic suspense. The investigative aspects of the book pulled me all the way in! I enjoyed the process of being there as all the pieces of the puzzle were brought together before the big reveal. And the relationship progression between Austin and Charlie was so heartfelt. They share all this history and heartbreak, with Austin carrying so much sadness hurt and sadness over the way they parted ways. I can't wait to check out more of the Stonewall Investigations series.

[Stacey Morris · Rating 1 out of 5]

Just another small town sheriff with a big head story

I have to say I DNF this book, because it contained two of the things I hate most Small Town Sheriff syndrome (Angel/Devil) and instant forgiveness Charlie supposedly practically destroyed Austin,so much so that he left so not my thing. I believe in forgiveness but get real how can Charlie be sorry he doesn’t even remember!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Kristi Jung · Rating 3 out of 5]

Alright

This book is alright. I definitely skimmed to the important bits to finish the story quicker. I’m glad I finished it because I was curious about the mystery, but i’m also glad I skimmed and didn’t take up too much time.

Kudos to the author for an interesting plot.

[Tina Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book.

A beautiful second chance at love book, with a bit of mystery tossed in. This book had my on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, laughing, crying and falling in love. A stunning HEA too.

[Danielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to love this, I really really did.
There were things that i enjoyed but Charlie was not one of them. I can't wrap my head around Austin forgiving him to the point he would get a second chance. Also I figured out the mystery super early so that is always a bummer.

[M.J. Calabrese · Rating 5 out of 5]

So glad I tried this author

I've found a new series to watch for and a new author to follow. Smart, romantic and sexy I can't wait for Book 2.

[Ethen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tiktok recommended it, and I trusted it. I should have checked the GR reviews because the 1-2-3 star reviews really say it all.

I really wanted to love this, even pushed myself through a few times from DNF-ing but unfortunately, it still disappointed me.
I missed the whole "galaxy’s worth of history" part. other than a few brief scenes, we don't really get introduced to the couple's history, so it missed the foundation for a 2nd chance.
One of the plots, why and how the groundbreaking breakup happened just didn't do the magic for me. I was craving for more drama and passion considering the whole relationship between the heroes was a big red flag.
The main plot around the "mystery" of Charlie's accident was too predictable. We don't find out what happened till the end, but I was hoping for a twist because it was too obvious. Unfortunately, the twist never happened. I was also hoping for some "hidden" or not so clues, instead of piecing everything together at the very, btw rushed end.

2.5 stars rounded up to 3

[Kristine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great start to a new series that I couldn’t put down. I was quickly caught up in the lives of the characters as they reconnected after a bitter break-up. Austin investigates what appears to be an unfortunate accident but small clues lead him to believe otherwise. I was kept on the edge of my seat in anticipation and suspense. Content warning for sex-trafficking. I’m looking forward to reading what happens next.

[Edga · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Mystery/Romance

Another good story from Max Walker. I'm so happy that he's finally finding success, I've followed him from the beginning, and I suspect that he's worked so hard to improve his writing. I love the Stonewall Investigations books, and this story was a welcome return to these. Charlie and Austin were likeable, although 'early' Charlie, tried my patience somewhat. The mystery was well done, and I can't wait for the next book after the ending of this one...arghh! My only grouse was that I found Austin's getting back with Charlie a little expeditious. You'll understand what I mean , after you've read it.

[Leelah🍁♋️ Orion · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

I’m only sad there was more. This is a new to me author, and I really enjoyed this. I wish it was just a tiny bit longer a little more drama just a little. But it was good. Went fast. Second chance love. It has great suspense, and love. I wish we had more interacting with the side characters also especially if we are going to have books about them. Based in New Hampshire making me want to visit. Great writing, smexy was nice, need more side character fix.

[vanesa · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.5⭐️

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the amnesia trope, but this story fell short for me. The "mystery" was quite easy to figure out and I feel like Charlie should have had to grovel more for how he behaved when they were younger.

[Picky_Book_B1tch]

DNF at 18%. This was not my kind of romance. It felt juvenile and predictable. There was nothing here that compelled me to continue.