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Enhanced World #2
Who We Truly Are
Talon’s deadly abilities are spiraling out of control. Desperate to keep Finn safe, Talon struggles to protect the man he loves with all his heart and not become the greatest risk to Finn’s life.
Finn has no choice but to offer himself as bait for the evil forces kidnapping enhanced children, facing danger he is untrained and unprepared for, and he will have to do it alone.
Does Talon have one last fight in him? Will he slay everyone who wants to destroy Finn and the team, or will he finally discover that to defeat their enemy and the ultimate threat, the biggest battle he has to face is one with himself?
Finn has no choice but to offer himself as bait for the evil forces kidnapping enhanced children, facing danger he is untrained and unprepared for, and he will have to do it alone.
Does Talon have one last fight in him? Will he slay everyone who wants to destroy Finn and the team, or will he finally discover that to defeat their enemy and the ultimate threat, the biggest battle he has to face is one with himself?
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2017
180 people are currently reading
600 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Sue
115 books1,013 followersBullets and Babies!
Victoria writes about guys loving other guys in between dodging bullets, kidnappers, and serial killers. She enjoys putting them through hell to get their happy ever after—it’s a character flaw she embraces.
She also believes that family is who you choose, that dogs are often much wiser than human beings, and that we’re steadily destroying the world we live in.
And if people read more books, they'd be much happier.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 278 reviews
February 28, 2025
May 2020: Audiobook = ***4 Stars ***
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***4.5 Stars***
This series keeps its promise!!!
Imagine my fist bump when I discovered that Who We Truly Are picks up right where Five Minutes Longer left us. Not only plotwise, but also in being as amazing as the first book.
Okay, okay, it was more of an excited squee - umm, internally of course - than anything else, but who wants to quibble over details... ;-)
It's no secret that I had a book crush on Five Minutes Longer and I can wholeheartedly fess up that the crush only intensified. I'm madly in love with Talon and Finn and declared them my favorite couple of the moment when I was asked about it in a Facebook group, just in case you still have any doubts.
Nevertheless, this book took me by surprise. It was not the adrenaline-sparked rollercoaster ride that was book #1 which does not mean it won't keep you on the edge of your seat sometimes. A lot of things happen again this time around, but most of them are more... subtle. Who We Truly Are concentrates more on the romance between Talon and Finn. You would almost think after what happened last time both men would be safe and sound - not to say happy - in their relationship, but both Talon and Finn still struggle with deep ingrained self-doubts and shy away from admitting to their feelings, much less say them out loud.
More enhanced children go missing and Finn is -due to his boyish looks- the number one candidate to be sent undercover into a foster home to investigate their disappearance. After the incident at the end of the first book (nope, for those who don't know the book yet, I won't tell you what exactly happened because that would spoil the whole fun, wouldn't it?) said mission sets Talon's teeth on edge and his protectiveness towards Finn into overdrive...
Talon's inner struggle threatens to not only affect their teamwork but also to screw up their relationship.
But there is more to it than that. Although it becomes more and more apparent that there evidently might be a possible explanation for what triggers the abilities of the Enhanced, it is still uncharted territory and when Talon's abilities seem to evolve, he lives in constant fear of hurting Finn. When everything is in danger of spiraling out of control...
... Finn has to give his all to save them both. But Finn would not be Finn if he would not commit himself with heart and soul to the cause and his feelings.
I did not expect the range of feelings I would be going through. Feelings like rage over the still prevailing prejudices against everything and everyone who falls short of the so-called "standard". Who is different. And although this story is fiction, it is a reminder of the narrow-mindedness of people in the world we are living in at the moment what makes it even more real. Sissy-me even cried at some point because the fate of the enhanced children nearly broke my heart.
The back and forth between Talon and Finn almost floored me. The alternation between hot and tender moments, but also the inner conflict on both sides that burst out into full-blown crises sometimes, put me through the wringer and wrecked my secret stash of chocolate. I took a deep - a very deep - breath and longed for a relaxing massage when both men got their well-deserved HEA.
We also get a lot of team dynamics and more background info about the other team members in this book and I cannot wait to read more about Gael, whose story is next. After the team more or less accomplished the "test phase" with Finn as a guinea pig of some sorts, the team is growing and now it will be Gael who is assigned a partner and I can already virtually see the sparks that will fly between him and Jake.
Highly recommended!
---------------------
***4.5 Stars***
This series keeps its promise!!!
Imagine my fist bump when I discovered that Who We Truly Are picks up right where Five Minutes Longer left us. Not only plotwise, but also in being as amazing as the first book.
Okay, okay, it was more of an excited squee - umm, internally of course - than anything else, but who wants to quibble over details... ;-)
It's no secret that I had a book crush on Five Minutes Longer and I can wholeheartedly fess up that the crush only intensified. I'm madly in love with Talon and Finn and declared them my favorite couple of the moment when I was asked about it in a Facebook group, just in case you still have any doubts.
Nevertheless, this book took me by surprise. It was not the adrenaline-sparked rollercoaster ride that was book #1 which does not mean it won't keep you on the edge of your seat sometimes. A lot of things happen again this time around, but most of them are more... subtle. Who We Truly Are concentrates more on the romance between Talon and Finn. You would almost think after what happened last time both men would be safe and sound - not to say happy - in their relationship, but both Talon and Finn still struggle with deep ingrained self-doubts and shy away from admitting to their feelings, much less say them out loud.
More enhanced children go missing and Finn is -due to his boyish looks- the number one candidate to be sent undercover into a foster home to investigate their disappearance. After the incident at the end of the first book (nope, for those who don't know the book yet, I won't tell you what exactly happened because that would spoil the whole fun, wouldn't it?) said mission sets Talon's teeth on edge and his protectiveness towards Finn into overdrive...
Sometimes Talon wished he'd never met Finn. Sometimes he just wanted to run away and hide him to keep him safe.
Talon's inner struggle threatens to not only affect their teamwork but also to screw up their relationship.
"Trust me," Finn said gently and raised Talon's chin with two small fingers. "I don't just mean with the job," Finn added as if Talon didn't know. As if Talon didn't understand Finn was asking for more. For him. All of Talon, and especially for Talon's heart.
But there is more to it than that. Although it becomes more and more apparent that there evidently might be a possible explanation for what triggers the abilities of the Enhanced, it is still uncharted territory and when Talon's abilities seem to evolve, he lives in constant fear of hurting Finn. When everything is in danger of spiraling out of control...
... Finn has to give his all to save them both. But Finn would not be Finn if he would not commit himself with heart and soul to the cause and his feelings.
"Miss me?" Resentment flared at the stupid question, and Finn opened his mouth to give Talon a comeback, but Talon's eyes caught Finn's own, and Finn saw. Saw all the doubt, worry, fear that had prompted the comment. All the things in him were reflected in Talon's gaze. He hadn't been teasing or mocking. "Always." Finn put every second of longing, lust, and conviction he could into the one word. He didn't need the love in there. Talon could see in his eyes what was in his heart. It wasn't just an answer. It was a promise.
I did not expect the range of feelings I would be going through. Feelings like rage over the still prevailing prejudices against everything and everyone who falls short of the so-called "standard". Who is different. And although this story is fiction, it is a reminder of the narrow-mindedness of people in the world we are living in at the moment what makes it even more real. Sissy-me even cried at some point because the fate of the enhanced children nearly broke my heart.
The back and forth between Talon and Finn almost floored me. The alternation between hot and tender moments, but also the inner conflict on both sides that burst out into full-blown crises sometimes, put me through the wringer and wrecked my secret stash of chocolate. I took a deep - a very deep - breath and longed for a relaxing massage when both men got their well-deserved HEA.
"No one has ever had that faith in me. Ever... And that's when I knew. That's when I knew I'd be a fool to ever let you go." Tears glinted in Talon's eyes. "Never again. I am never letting you go."
We also get a lot of team dynamics and more background info about the other team members in this book and I cannot wait to read more about Gael, whose story is next. After the team more or less accomplished the "test phase" with Finn as a guinea pig of some sorts, the team is growing and now it will be Gael who is assigned a partner and I can already virtually see the sparks that will fly between him and Jake.
Highly recommended!
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession Dirty Books Obsession
July 4, 2018
4 Stars
This series continues to be fun and thrilling. I love the plot and the world building, and I certainly adore all the main players involved in this innovative M/M alt-universe sci-fi series.
I loved the evolution of Finn and Talon’s relationship in this sequel. Although the idiots spent half the story not communicating properly, I forgave them because they’re still awesome, loveable characters. There were a few touch-and-go moments when they almost let their personal insecurities and fears mess with their potential bliss, but they eventually got their shit together and faced some hard truths that, however confronting, ultimately brought them closer together as work partners and as a couple.
It must also be noted that this sequel was way steamier than its predecessor, which (obviously) isn’t a complaint. No siree, no one is complaining here. Finn and Talon were explosive together and I can’t wait to see what comes next for them. Their relationship reminds me a lot of Dex and Sloane’s in the THIRDS series – this is high praise from me – arguably getting hotter and more romantic as the bigger series unfolds.
Aside from the hot and steamy stuff, I also enjoyed the ever evolving group dynamics among the team and I particularly enjoyed the introduction of future MC Jake. I’m really excited to watch how the relationship between him and Gael develops - bring on book three!
I’m especially fascinated to see where this series goes in regards to the bigger social justice battle that’s being fought where the enhanced are concerned. The introduction of so many vulnerable enhanced children and the tireless efforts Finn and the team are making to ensure their protection and safety is probably my favourite element of the series so far and I can’t wait to see where it all goes from here.
This series continues to be fun and thrilling. I love the plot and the world building, and I certainly adore all the main players involved in this innovative M/M alt-universe sci-fi series.
I loved the evolution of Finn and Talon’s relationship in this sequel. Although the idiots spent half the story not communicating properly, I forgave them because they’re still awesome, loveable characters. There were a few touch-and-go moments when they almost let their personal insecurities and fears mess with their potential bliss, but they eventually got their shit together and faced some hard truths that, however confronting, ultimately brought them closer together as work partners and as a couple.
It must also be noted that this sequel was way steamier than its predecessor, which (obviously) isn’t a complaint. No siree, no one is complaining here. Finn and Talon were explosive together and I can’t wait to see what comes next for them. Their relationship reminds me a lot of Dex and Sloane’s in the THIRDS series – this is high praise from me – arguably getting hotter and more romantic as the bigger series unfolds.
Aside from the hot and steamy stuff, I also enjoyed the ever evolving group dynamics among the team and I particularly enjoyed the introduction of future MC Jake. I’m really excited to watch how the relationship between him and Gael develops - bring on book three!
I’m especially fascinated to see where this series goes in regards to the bigger social justice battle that’s being fought where the enhanced are concerned. The introduction of so many vulnerable enhanced children and the tireless efforts Finn and the team are making to ensure their protection and safety is probably my favourite element of the series so far and I can’t wait to see where it all goes from here.
November 26, 2021
Who We Truly Are by Victoria Sue
Enhanced World book 2. Paranormal M-M romantic suspense.
Finn goes undercover working for H.E.R.O. as a young Enhanced at a school where other Enhanced have disappeared. Talon, as both coworker on the force and Finn’s lover, is worried and doesn’t think Finn is ready for undercover work.
Finn and Talon are the same couple as the previous book, Five Minutes Longer. It’s a new relationship and the two struggle in this book being away from each other and the inherent danger in undercover work, plus the fact they haven’t really talked about their relationship in any depth.
My pet peeve, not talking to each other!
This book is a lot of the danger of the police work and the prejudice of the Enhanced but does finally have Finn and Talen talking to each other. And does included several steamy scenes between the two.
We also learn more about the special team of Enhanced and team members and their abilities.
I enjoyed the world building and although it’s not necessarily a nice world, the policing and abilities are intriguing and I can’t wait to read more of this series.
Enhanced World book 2. Paranormal M-M romantic suspense.
Finn goes undercover working for H.E.R.O. as a young Enhanced at a school where other Enhanced have disappeared. Talon, as both coworker on the force and Finn’s lover, is worried and doesn’t think Finn is ready for undercover work.
Finn and Talon are the same couple as the previous book, Five Minutes Longer. It’s a new relationship and the two struggle in this book being away from each other and the inherent danger in undercover work, plus the fact they haven’t really talked about their relationship in any depth.
My pet peeve, not talking to each other!
This book is a lot of the danger of the police work and the prejudice of the Enhanced but does finally have Finn and Talen talking to each other. And does included several steamy scenes between the two.
We also learn more about the special team of Enhanced and team members and their abilities.
I enjoyed the world building and although it’s not necessarily a nice world, the policing and abilities are intriguing and I can’t wait to read more of this series.
July 4, 2018
4 Stars
I have to say that I quite appreciate this series and its take on mutant human beings and the social ramifications of such. This is not a nice world where acceptance and harmony abound - it’s rife with prejudice, hate, and fear - along with the injustice done to a subset of humanity whose only crime is being different.
Tasked with trying to bring the Enhanced equal rights by positive exposure and a meaningful contribution to society, is the FBI team headed by Talon. They’re still working out the wrinkles in their dynamic, still working on law enforcement relations as well as promoting public acceptance, all the while staving off haters and evil doers hell bent on using Enhanced children for their own diabolical agendas.
What this excels at are the emotions of MC’s Talon and newbie agent Finn. These men both have difficulty expressing their feelings, their fears, and insecurities and only want to keep the other safe and do their jobs to the utmost of their abilities. There is no room for mistakes, and both Talon and Finn were frustrating in their inability to talk things out and make rational decisions sometimes. So yes, this did drive me a bit bonkers, but I like what this author has started. I like the social complexity of this and the obstacles these men come up against. It doesn’t hurt that the feels are spot on, that the characters are endearing and likeable (most of the time), and the smex is oh so nice.
We can only hope this continues at a steady pace, giving us more world building and a growing cast of characters. I’m settling in for the long haul and making myself quite comfortable. Don’t make me get up, Ms. Sue. Just saying.
I have to say that I quite appreciate this series and its take on mutant human beings and the social ramifications of such. This is not a nice world where acceptance and harmony abound - it’s rife with prejudice, hate, and fear - along with the injustice done to a subset of humanity whose only crime is being different.
Tasked with trying to bring the Enhanced equal rights by positive exposure and a meaningful contribution to society, is the FBI team headed by Talon. They’re still working out the wrinkles in their dynamic, still working on law enforcement relations as well as promoting public acceptance, all the while staving off haters and evil doers hell bent on using Enhanced children for their own diabolical agendas.
What this excels at are the emotions of MC’s Talon and newbie agent Finn. These men both have difficulty expressing their feelings, their fears, and insecurities and only want to keep the other safe and do their jobs to the utmost of their abilities. There is no room for mistakes, and both Talon and Finn were frustrating in their inability to talk things out and make rational decisions sometimes. So yes, this did drive me a bit bonkers, but I like what this author has started. I like the social complexity of this and the obstacles these men come up against. It doesn’t hurt that the feels are spot on, that the characters are endearing and likeable (most of the time), and the smex is oh so nice.
We can only hope this continues at a steady pace, giving us more world building and a growing cast of characters. I’m settling in for the long haul and making myself quite comfortable. Don’t make me get up, Ms. Sue. Just saying.
August 16, 2017
After finishing the first book in this series, I was so freaking excited to start this second one !!
It was as good as I expected it to be !! Now first things first. You have to read book 1 before you read this one. Even I read them in order so that's saying something :P They are not stand alone books.
I absolutely love this awesome team of "enhanced" and one regular yet amazing human.
The team is still going strong and so are Talon and Finn. There are some issues though.. Talon is struggeling with his abilities. Things are changing for him and he doesn't quite know how to deal....yet
Finn has his own issues...most having to do with Talon. It becomes more and more clear to Finn that Talon doesn't really trust him...or more important...believe in him.
The more doubt Talon shows...the more Finn feels like he needs to prove himself, which causes him to get into trouble more than once. This didn't bother me because I totally got where Finn was coming from. He needed Talon to trust and believe in him but mostly...he needed to believe in himself.
It also made for some nice groveling scenes from Talon ;)
Talon, he is falling in love and he doesn't know how to deal with all these new feelings. Its takes him a long time to even admit to himself how he really feels about Finn. He is so protective of Finn and he just can't stand the fact of Finn getting hurt. Even though he went about it all wrong... I still thought it was very endearing ;)
The steam was definitely hotter in this one ...yowza !!
"Love how you swallow me," Talon whispered. "Take me right in all the way. Made for me."
The background story was awesome as well. Finn going undercover as a 17 year old "enhanced"boy made me laugh my ass off !!
"You need to change his age boss." Vance said in amazement. " There is no way he looks more than twelve, thirteen tops." "I shave dickhead." Finn glared.
There was less action than in the first book but the emotional moments were plentiful...which I think was perfect for this second installment. I needed some tender and sweet moments between Talon and Finn and I got exactly what I wanted !!
"Never again. I am never letting you go. You are the best part of me."
The next book.....I really hope there will be a next book....will hopefully be about Gael and his new regular human partner. Now I really can't wait to read about those two !!!
May 28, 2019
Damn, this series is getting better and better! 😱 I mean I loved the first book but I’m heads over heels in love with this one. 😁 I listened this 8hours audio in ONE day. One day!!! 😱 So I guess I need no more explanation about how much I loved this book. 😉
After the last disaster of their operation, Finn and Talon are in their own little happiness bubble. But as always, happiness don’t last long when you have the seed of doubt and insecurity in your heart. 😢 Talon is terrified of himself and scared that he’s only going to harm Finn and possibly kill him in the end if he continues his relationship with him. And Finn has no idea how to convince Talon that he’s actually the strength and anchor of his life. Meanwhile, domestic problems aside, the enhanced children are still missing. And Gregory and Swan are not giving up their evil deeds of trying to exploit enhanced children. 😡 When Finn was chosen to go undercover as an enhanced teen at a enhanced youth facility, it’s the last straw on Talon’s camel back. Talon doesn’t want Finn to go because he can’t live in a world where Finn is hurt and possibly dead. And Finn is tired of being treated like an incapable child. Something has to give if they want to continue to be partners in the bed and out of it. The problem is .. will they run out of time before they even begin to solve one issue at a time?
Raw, gritty and oh-so-engaging! 😍 I loved every second listening this audio. And the sexiness was off the chart in this one! 🔥 Damn, Talon sure knows how to manhandle Finn into a puddled goo! 🔥😉 I loved the storyline and especially the realistic relationship development between Talon and Finn. I mean they are already in love with each other but professing that love to each other was another matter entirely. And I have a crush on each and every member of our beloved H.E.R.O. Unit so I was thrilled to learn more about our hunky, macho agents. And I knew Talon was vulnerable despite his hard exterior but it’s heartbreaking to learn and see how this insecurity and vulnerability started. 😭 I would say most of the issues from the first book are resolved in this one and Talon and Finn’s relationship is stronger than ever. These two sure know how to do reunions with a scorching bang! 😏😁🔥 Most literally! 😂👏 And Nick J. Russo did a fantastic job as always narrating this story. 👏 I’m really looking forward to the third book in the series, Gael’s story. I think it’s going to be a good enemies-to-lovers story. And I hope we will still get glimpses of Talon and Finn because I’m in love with those two adorable headstrong men. Can’t recommend enough if you love urban fantasy and sci-fi books. 💜 All hail to queen Victoria Sue. 😉
5 you are my greatest ability stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Audio rating
Story - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narration- 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Disclaimer: An audio copy of this book was provided by the author for an honest and unbiased review.
After the last disaster of their operation, Finn and Talon are in their own little happiness bubble. But as always, happiness don’t last long when you have the seed of doubt and insecurity in your heart. 😢 Talon is terrified of himself and scared that he’s only going to harm Finn and possibly kill him in the end if he continues his relationship with him. And Finn has no idea how to convince Talon that he’s actually the strength and anchor of his life. Meanwhile, domestic problems aside, the enhanced children are still missing. And Gregory and Swan are not giving up their evil deeds of trying to exploit enhanced children. 😡 When Finn was chosen to go undercover as an enhanced teen at a enhanced youth facility, it’s the last straw on Talon’s camel back. Talon doesn’t want Finn to go because he can’t live in a world where Finn is hurt and possibly dead. And Finn is tired of being treated like an incapable child. Something has to give if they want to continue to be partners in the bed and out of it. The problem is .. will they run out of time before they even begin to solve one issue at a time?
Raw, gritty and oh-so-engaging! 😍 I loved every second listening this audio. And the sexiness was off the chart in this one! 🔥 Damn, Talon sure knows how to manhandle Finn into a puddled goo! 🔥😉 I loved the storyline and especially the realistic relationship development between Talon and Finn. I mean they are already in love with each other but professing that love to each other was another matter entirely. And I have a crush on each and every member of our beloved H.E.R.O. Unit so I was thrilled to learn more about our hunky, macho agents. And I knew Talon was vulnerable despite his hard exterior but it’s heartbreaking to learn and see how this insecurity and vulnerability started. 😭 I would say most of the issues from the first book are resolved in this one and Talon and Finn’s relationship is stronger than ever. These two sure know how to do reunions with a scorching bang! 😏😁🔥 Most literally! 😂👏 And Nick J. Russo did a fantastic job as always narrating this story. 👏 I’m really looking forward to the third book in the series, Gael’s story. I think it’s going to be a good enemies-to-lovers story. And I hope we will still get glimpses of Talon and Finn because I’m in love with those two adorable headstrong men. Can’t recommend enough if you love urban fantasy and sci-fi books. 💜 All hail to queen Victoria Sue. 😉
5 you are my greatest ability stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Audio rating
Story - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narration- 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Disclaimer: An audio copy of this book was provided by the author for an honest and unbiased review.
May 22, 2021
Re-read May 2021
Since I didn't like the rest of the series I'm going to quit here. The first two books are wonderful.
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A wonderful sequel to Five Minutes Longer.
In this Finn and Talon have been together for a couple of months now when Finn is asked for an undercover mission to find out what’s been happening to some missing Enhanced kids.
Finn gets asked to pose as a 17 year old and go undercover at a group home. But Talon doesn’t want Finn to go since he could get hurt..
I loved how protective Talon was of Finn, despite him making an ass of himself and hurting Finn by telling him he shouldn’t do the undercover mission. But Finn wouldn’t be Finn is he wasn’t stubborn and determined to prove himself. Of course Finn gets hurt several times in this, so hurt/comfort FTW!
I loved the action in this and I love the tender moments between Talon and Finn. And boy, were the sexy times explosive! But I do have to admit that the sex happened at strange moments. It was like there was no time between all the things happening so they had sex at very weird moments and places. I still enjoyed every second of it of course.
I loved how Talon’s powers seem to be developing and I can’t wait to read more about the team. I’m guessing that the rest of the books will be about other members of the team, but I could do another book about Talon and Finn. I just love these guys.
Since I didn't like the rest of the series I'm going to quit here. The first two books are wonderful.
--------------------
A wonderful sequel to Five Minutes Longer.
In this Finn and Talon have been together for a couple of months now when Finn is asked for an undercover mission to find out what’s been happening to some missing Enhanced kids.
Finn gets asked to pose as a 17 year old and go undercover at a group home. But Talon doesn’t want Finn to go since he could get hurt..
I loved how protective Talon was of Finn, despite him making an ass of himself and hurting Finn by telling him he shouldn’t do the undercover mission. But Finn wouldn’t be Finn is he wasn’t stubborn and determined to prove himself. Of course Finn gets hurt several times in this, so hurt/comfort FTW!
I loved the action in this and I love the tender moments between Talon and Finn. And boy, were the sexy times explosive! But I do have to admit that the sex happened at strange moments. It was like there was no time between all the things happening so they had sex at very weird moments and places. I still enjoyed every second of it of course.
I loved how Talon’s powers seem to be developing and I can’t wait to read more about the team. I’m guessing that the rest of the books will be about other members of the team, but I could do another book about Talon and Finn. I just love these guys.
August 13, 2017
4.5 hearts!
This story picks up shortly after the events in Five Minutes Longer. Young enhanced boys are going missing and it’s up to our heroes to find out why. Talon, still reeling from the effects of the manifestation of his new powers, is trying to come to terms with how he truly feels about Finn. It doesn’t help that their current mission puts Finn in danger. He’s terrified that Finn will be hurt, or worse, killed by whomever is behind the kids’ disappearances. Finn, however, is excited about the mission as it will give him the chance to prove that he really is an asset to the team and show the powers that be (and Talon) that he’s stronger than everyone thinks.
I’m so happy that we got more of Finn and Talon in this book. I always felt that their story wasn’t finished at the end of Five Minutes Longer. Finn, yeah, he was all in almost from the beginning, but Talon still needed to be convinced that someone could actually love him. He never felt that he deserved to have love. It was heartbreaking to see him hold everyone at arms-length so he wouldn’t get hurt.
The growth of not only the love between Talon and Finn, but also Finn’s confidence and Talon’s acceptance was a thing of beauty. They both really shone in this book and I felt like I connected with them on a deeper level. The secondary characters were fabulous as well. We got to know the rest of the team better and see more of their individuality. I can’t wait to read Sawyer, Gael, Vance and Eli’s stories! Drew though… I’ve got a pot of honey and a fire ant hill with his name on it. I always knew he was shifty. *glares at Drew*
The plot was engaging and I had a hard time putting the book down. Though the villain(s) was a bit too mustache-twirly for my tastes they were balanced out well with some surprising allies. People who I at first thought would be enemies turned out to be more friend than foe and the development of these characters was a delight to read.
I recommend this fast-paced adventure for those thrill-seekers out there who like a bit of excitement and danger mixed in with their romance. You need to read the first book though, as this is not a stand-alone. This book, and series, will have you at the edge of your seat, gasping for breath and eager to turn the page so you can find out what happens next. The writing was superb, the words flowed smoothly, the story was engaging and the character development was out of this world. I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for us in the next book. Whatever it is, I’m sure it will be just as fantastic.
This story picks up shortly after the events in Five Minutes Longer. Young enhanced boys are going missing and it’s up to our heroes to find out why. Talon, still reeling from the effects of the manifestation of his new powers, is trying to come to terms with how he truly feels about Finn. It doesn’t help that their current mission puts Finn in danger. He’s terrified that Finn will be hurt, or worse, killed by whomever is behind the kids’ disappearances. Finn, however, is excited about the mission as it will give him the chance to prove that he really is an asset to the team and show the powers that be (and Talon) that he’s stronger than everyone thinks.
I’m so happy that we got more of Finn and Talon in this book. I always felt that their story wasn’t finished at the end of Five Minutes Longer. Finn, yeah, he was all in almost from the beginning, but Talon still needed to be convinced that someone could actually love him. He never felt that he deserved to have love. It was heartbreaking to see him hold everyone at arms-length so he wouldn’t get hurt.
The growth of not only the love between Talon and Finn, but also Finn’s confidence and Talon’s acceptance was a thing of beauty. They both really shone in this book and I felt like I connected with them on a deeper level. The secondary characters were fabulous as well. We got to know the rest of the team better and see more of their individuality. I can’t wait to read Sawyer, Gael, Vance and Eli’s stories! Drew though… I’ve got a pot of honey and a fire ant hill with his name on it. I always knew he was shifty. *glares at Drew*
The plot was engaging and I had a hard time putting the book down. Though the villain(s) was a bit too mustache-twirly for my tastes they were balanced out well with some surprising allies. People who I at first thought would be enemies turned out to be more friend than foe and the development of these characters was a delight to read.
I recommend this fast-paced adventure for those thrill-seekers out there who like a bit of excitement and danger mixed in with their romance. You need to read the first book though, as this is not a stand-alone. This book, and series, will have you at the edge of your seat, gasping for breath and eager to turn the page so you can find out what happens next. The writing was superb, the words flowed smoothly, the story was engaging and the character development was out of this world. I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for us in the next book. Whatever it is, I’m sure it will be just as fantastic.
November 7, 2017
You know how sometimes pictures of fast food make it seem so good and tasty and then the real thing arrives and it’s not quite that attractive?
You start eating it anyway and the taste doesn’t seem too bad at first, but the more you eat the more you notice all that’s wrong with it, because you’re not starving anymore and you can actually taste it for what it is.
This was me and this series. It seemed great reading the blurbs, I read the first book and it wasn’t great, but there was the possibility of improvement. Only, the second book didn’t improve, if anything my tolerance decreased with every new chapter.
The romance between Finn and Talon lacks depth, the rest of the plot is messy, the characters flat and at times the narrative has an almost stream of consciousness quality that makes the reading experience confusing.
I loved the idea behind this series, the cast of characters, the storyline of Talon’s ability evolving, and it’s all the more frustrating because I can see all this unexpressed potential wasted on a mediocre execution. I know it sounds harsh, but it feels like the author had a great idea for a series without the writing skills to make it shine.
Quoting one of my favorite characters (not from this book, of course): “First of all, ideas aren’t the hard part. Secondly, there are no new ideas, only the author’s unique execution.”
I couldn’t agree more and this right here is the perfect example of the execution ruining a perfectly good idea.
You start eating it anyway and the taste doesn’t seem too bad at first, but the more you eat the more you notice all that’s wrong with it, because you’re not starving anymore and you can actually taste it for what it is.
This was me and this series. It seemed great reading the blurbs, I read the first book and it wasn’t great, but there was the possibility of improvement. Only, the second book didn’t improve, if anything my tolerance decreased with every new chapter.
The romance between Finn and Talon lacks depth, the rest of the plot is messy, the characters flat and at times the narrative has an almost stream of consciousness quality that makes the reading experience confusing.
I loved the idea behind this series, the cast of characters, the storyline of Talon’s ability evolving, and it’s all the more frustrating because I can see all this unexpressed potential wasted on a mediocre execution. I know it sounds harsh, but it feels like the author had a great idea for a series without the writing skills to make it shine.
Quoting one of my favorite characters (not from this book, of course): “First of all, ideas aren’t the hard part. Secondly, there are no new ideas, only the author’s unique execution.”
I couldn’t agree more and this right here is the perfect example of the execution ruining a perfectly good idea.
November 19, 2017
Part 2 of the “enhanced series” : it continues just where we were left in Five Minutes Longer.
So, let’s resume : the setting is in a world with some kids waking up one day with a scar on their cheeks, proof they’ve just acquired some superhuman capabilities. For decades, these enhanced humans are mostly feared and greatly prejudiced. Mentalities and laws are slowly changing and the new FBI unit called HERO, a team with enhanced humans lead by Talon and paired so far with Finn, a regular human, has a lot of work to do. Especially trying to protect these enhanced kids.
Finn and Talon have a lot of work to accomplish : not only looking for missing enhanced kids, but also building their relationship. Not easy with Talon over-protectiveness being outrageously condescending for Finn and with Finn such in need of fighting his insecurities and proving his worthiness.
As in the first part, I thoroughly enjoyed the world building and was captivated by the plot, with the added bonus of Finn always ending up in situations leading him to the hospital.
But most of all, I was thrilled by Talon and Finn’s journey to form a real partnership and the by much needed introspection (and end result) from both of them to make it work even outside of their bedroom.
That was funny, full of action and feels, and very hot. Really entertaining for me. As for the HERO team, mmhhh, some very promising good time to come, with Gael’s story next and I hope very soon afterwards, with Eli’s !!
So, let’s resume : the setting is in a world with some kids waking up one day with a scar on their cheeks, proof they’ve just acquired some superhuman capabilities. For decades, these enhanced humans are mostly feared and greatly prejudiced. Mentalities and laws are slowly changing and the new FBI unit called HERO, a team with enhanced humans lead by Talon and paired so far with Finn, a regular human, has a lot of work to do. Especially trying to protect these enhanced kids.
Finn and Talon have a lot of work to accomplish : not only looking for missing enhanced kids, but also building their relationship. Not easy with Talon over-protectiveness being outrageously condescending for Finn and with Finn such in need of fighting his insecurities and proving his worthiness.
As in the first part, I thoroughly enjoyed the world building and was captivated by the plot, with the added bonus of Finn always ending up in situations leading him to the hospital.
But most of all, I was thrilled by Talon and Finn’s journey to form a real partnership and the by much needed introspection (and end result) from both of them to make it work even outside of their bedroom.
That was funny, full of action and feels, and very hot. Really entertaining for me. As for the HERO team, mmhhh, some very promising good time to come, with Gael’s story next and I hope very soon afterwards, with Eli’s !!
April 14, 2018
4.5*
I loved this book.
There’s already so many well written reviews that this book doesn’t need mine. What I will add is that I expected this book to belong to another member of the team. I figured each one would get their own book and while that would be good because I’m intrigued by them all. It does then run the risk becoming a little formulated.
So I was thrilled and surprised to discover this is yet again Talon and Finns book. I say that but we still get loads of the other guys.
It’s straight onto the next one for me now.
April 17, 2018
I liked the first book better even if I am going to rate them the same. My three stars will just not do it.
I am very intrigued by the paranormal part of this book maybe just because it is similiar to xmen. Not only the crazy gifts the people have but also the one enhanced who thinks they should run the world - who comes there in our minds *coughmagnetocough*.
The relationship between Talon and Finn is kind of hard to get for me to be honest, there is a little too much fighting against his own feelings from Talon again and again. Also I am kind of wondering if all enhanced are gay? Or will there be some M/F story too in this series. Because if it is not a characteristic of the enhanced to be gay it is kind of "unrealistic" that the whole team is right... just wondering :) Really looking forward to Eli's story but I am afraid he will be the last one to get his own book...
I am very intrigued by the paranormal part of this book maybe just because it is similiar to xmen. Not only the crazy gifts the people have but also the one enhanced who thinks they should run the world - who comes there in our minds *coughmagnetocough*.
The relationship between Talon and Finn is kind of hard to get for me to be honest, there is a little too much fighting against his own feelings from Talon again and again. Also I am kind of wondering if all enhanced are gay? Or will there be some M/F story too in this series. Because if it is not a characteristic of the enhanced to be gay it is kind of "unrealistic" that the whole team is right... just wondering :) Really looking forward to Eli's story but I am afraid he will be the last one to get his own book...
August 21, 2017
3.5 stars
This is the second book in the new M/M PNR series, Enhanced.
Another great installment in this artfully developed world. Who We Truly Are picks up where Five Minutes Longer left off. I don't recommend reading them out of order since book 1 sets up the world, the characters and the dynamics. Book 2 focuses on the same couple as the first book.
It was great to back with Talon and Finn as they try to come to terms with their abilities, their past and their present.
I'm looking forward to book 3 where we'll see a new partnership between Gael and Jake. I can already see the sparks. Not the good kind. ;-) Yet.
This is the second book in the new M/M PNR series, Enhanced.
Another great installment in this artfully developed world. Who We Truly Are picks up where Five Minutes Longer left off. I don't recommend reading them out of order since book 1 sets up the world, the characters and the dynamics. Book 2 focuses on the same couple as the first book.
It was great to back with Talon and Finn as they try to come to terms with their abilities, their past and their present.
I'm looking forward to book 3 where we'll see a new partnership between Gael and Jake. I can already see the sparks. Not the good kind. ;-) Yet.
February 23, 2018
The Enhanced series keeps kicking it up a notch and is definitely getting better with each installment, but man, oh, man, do I love Nick J. Russo narrating these.
Told again from a dual POV, in Who We Truly Are the action is pretty non-stop, with lots of sexy times in between the next crisis that Talon or Finn face.
This time around it's all about trying to find out what's happening to the missing enhanced teens and Finn goes undercover, much to Talon's disapproval. Finn, predictably, keeps getting hurt (I just wish some of Talon's powers could somehow transfer to Finn...) but it's because he keeps doing what is right, but unfortunately it also means Talon and the team keep having to save him. Meanwhile, Talon is going through his own life-altering changes, which could ultimately mean trouble for the team.
I love how this series is progressing, but mostly I love how Nick J. Russo brings these characters to life. His character voices are great and consistent, his tone and pitch are good, and his pacing is terrific.
Look no further for a sexy as hell, good time, entertaining, paranormal romance with plenty of action and awesome narration.
Audio copy of Who We Truly Are (Enhanced #2) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
June 8, 2020
Book 1 left me very undecided what to think about this series, but book 2 has made it crystal clear – this author is not for me.
I like the scenario and the idea of the universe she creates, and the character outline of the MCs is also captivating, but not even suspending my belief helped me to get through the plot without major heart palpitations. There are so many incongruities, oddities and weird, illogical stuff happening in what I would call a ‘frazzled plotline’, I simply lost count.
One of my main issues is Finn’s so called ‘undercover’ operation. There is so much wrong with it on so many levels I got dizzy from shaking my head.
And then there’s Talon and Finn and their relationship.
I like these guys, don’t get me wrong, and I read this second book mainly to see how they were doing.
But …
Whether it’s Talon’s OTT overprotectiveness and frequently emotionally immature behaviour or Finn’s tendency to nurture the chip on his shoulder about ‘not being good enough’, both men’s attitude caused serious bouts of eye-rolling. They both behave like teenagers, tbh.
And throwing in a bit of jealousy into the equation felt so out of place!
In fact, I sometimes got the feeling the way the plot was going that these were all young boys playing at being FBI agents and failing miserably. I also expected far more from the ‘Talon’s powers are getting out of control’ plotline.
I probably could go on, but I think I simply have to accept that this author’s writing and me don’t gel.
Sorry and I hope many others will enjoy this more than me.
I like the scenario and the idea of the universe she creates, and the character outline of the MCs is also captivating, but not even suspending my belief helped me to get through the plot without major heart palpitations. There are so many incongruities, oddities and weird, illogical stuff happening in what I would call a ‘frazzled plotline’, I simply lost count.
One of my main issues is Finn’s so called ‘undercover’ operation. There is so much wrong with it on so many levels I got dizzy from shaking my head.
And then there’s Talon and Finn and their relationship.
I like these guys, don’t get me wrong, and I read this second book mainly to see how they were doing.
But …
Whether it’s Talon’s OTT overprotectiveness and frequently emotionally immature behaviour or Finn’s tendency to nurture the chip on his shoulder about ‘not being good enough’, both men’s attitude caused serious bouts of eye-rolling. They both behave like teenagers, tbh.
And throwing in a bit of jealousy into the equation felt so out of place!
In fact, I sometimes got the feeling the way the plot was going that these were all young boys playing at being FBI agents and failing miserably. I also expected far more from the ‘Talon’s powers are getting out of control’ plotline.
I probably could go on, but I think I simply have to accept that this author’s writing and me don’t gel.
Sorry and I hope many others will enjoy this more than me.
January 23, 2018
Maybe 3.5 stars? Full review to come!
January 30, 2020
I loved revisiting Talon and Finn's love story! Shy and unsure Talon always got to me as well as brave and noble Finn. I enjoyed reading about Team HERO: from their daily struggles and personal demons to their talents and how they use them to save lives. It was fast paced, suspenseful, funny and mildly steamy. Good story
August 3, 2024
This was an interesting story focussing on the enhanced people and the HERO. I would have like more about the relationship. Well read.
July 27, 2017
This is the second book in the "enhanced" series by this author. I strongly suggest reading the first book, Five Minutes More, before taking on this book. I really liked the first book in the series -- this book not so much.
In the last book in the series, there is a short side plot concerning the kidnapping of kids who have enhanced abilities. Well, in this book, they are following up on that theme. Finn is designated to go into a boy's home for unwanted enhanced children. He supposedly is able to pull off looking like a 17 year old boy named Joe (despite the fact that he is also the full-time lover of Talon . . . There is just something incredibly wrong with that picture.).
While Finn is in a very restrictive boy's home -- almost like a prison -- the rest of the HERO squad are out doing their normal duties.
The problem with this book is that it reads like a hodge lodge of disjointed thoughts. That, however, doesn't make a good story. It makes a stream of consciousness mess. While book one in the series had a very clear outline and plan. This book is sorely lacking anything resembling an outline, and that makes it very hard to read. Too many flash backs and side references to make entertaining reading.
Additionally, the author beats the reader over the head to make her points. For example, Talon tells a story about being drugged by hot chocolate when he was a kid. And while Finn is in the children's home, he is given hot chocolate and then falls asleep. Can't someone please put two and two together and reach the conclusion that Finn is being drugged in the child house without spending chapters to reach that conclusion?!? It is so very annoying.
Once Finn infiltrates the children's home, this story becomes very disjointed. Every chapter changes the locale and the focus of the story. Basically, this is what happens, a bad guy named Alan Swann (not Peter O'Toole from My Favorite Year but a televangelist type who hates all enhanced people) is building a "school" to teach young enhanced kids. But, of course, it is not designed to teach anything, but to manipulate and abuse the kids who have powers that Swann can use.
Ultimately, Swann kidnaps Finn and a couple of other enhanced kids, and tries to force them to use their powers. Since Finn is not enhanced and is just wearing a sticker on his face where the raised tattoo of an enhanced person should be -- he just gets abused. And Talon and his crew come to the rescue, but get caught by Swann. Swann has learned that by injecting an enhanced person with a lot of caffeine causes them to go crazy. Swann injects Talon with the overdose of caffeine, and Talon can't control any of his powers, and he destroys the buildings he is in (Swann hopes that Talon will kill himself and every enhanced in the building). But, Finn realizes that saying "I love you" and kissing Talon will stop the caffeine induces craze. (Can we throw up yet at the sicky sweetness?)
Talon destroys the building but not the people in the building who are miraculously saved, and everyone goes on to have a wonderful life working at HERO.
The first book in this series was a promising look at an interesting concept, and I really looked forward to the second book. This was, however, a poorly written and edited disappointment. While the theme still has potential, if it is poorly presented like in this book, then it has little merit. Unfortunately, I give this book two stars. If there is another book in the series, the author and the editor need to do a much better job at making a flowing story that does not seem like bits and pieces of short stories joined together into something that they want to call a novel.
In the last book in the series, there is a short side plot concerning the kidnapping of kids who have enhanced abilities. Well, in this book, they are following up on that theme. Finn is designated to go into a boy's home for unwanted enhanced children. He supposedly is able to pull off looking like a 17 year old boy named Joe (despite the fact that he is also the full-time lover of Talon . . . There is just something incredibly wrong with that picture.).
While Finn is in a very restrictive boy's home -- almost like a prison -- the rest of the HERO squad are out doing their normal duties.
The problem with this book is that it reads like a hodge lodge of disjointed thoughts. That, however, doesn't make a good story. It makes a stream of consciousness mess. While book one in the series had a very clear outline and plan. This book is sorely lacking anything resembling an outline, and that makes it very hard to read. Too many flash backs and side references to make entertaining reading.
Additionally, the author beats the reader over the head to make her points. For example, Talon tells a story about being drugged by hot chocolate when he was a kid. And while Finn is in the children's home, he is given hot chocolate and then falls asleep. Can't someone please put two and two together and reach the conclusion that Finn is being drugged in the child house without spending chapters to reach that conclusion?!? It is so very annoying.
Once Finn infiltrates the children's home, this story becomes very disjointed. Every chapter changes the locale and the focus of the story. Basically, this is what happens, a bad guy named Alan Swann (not Peter O'Toole from My Favorite Year but a televangelist type who hates all enhanced people) is building a "school" to teach young enhanced kids. But, of course, it is not designed to teach anything, but to manipulate and abuse the kids who have powers that Swann can use.
Ultimately, Swann kidnaps Finn and a couple of other enhanced kids, and tries to force them to use their powers. Since Finn is not enhanced and is just wearing a sticker on his face where the raised tattoo of an enhanced person should be -- he just gets abused. And Talon and his crew come to the rescue, but get caught by Swann. Swann has learned that by injecting an enhanced person with a lot of caffeine causes them to go crazy. Swann injects Talon with the overdose of caffeine, and Talon can't control any of his powers, and he destroys the buildings he is in (Swann hopes that Talon will kill himself and every enhanced in the building). But, Finn realizes that saying "I love you" and kissing Talon will stop the caffeine induces craze. (Can we throw up yet at the sicky sweetness?)
Talon destroys the building but not the people in the building who are miraculously saved, and everyone goes on to have a wonderful life working at HERO.
The first book in this series was a promising look at an interesting concept, and I really looked forward to the second book. This was, however, a poorly written and edited disappointment. While the theme still has potential, if it is poorly presented like in this book, then it has little merit. Unfortunately, I give this book two stars. If there is another book in the series, the author and the editor need to do a much better job at making a flowing story that does not seem like bits and pieces of short stories joined together into something that they want to call a novel.
March 19, 2018
Who We Truly Are is the second book in the Enhanced series by Victoria Sue and this story just gets better and better. I love the humor and fun in these books, and the hot and sexy dynamic between Finn and Talon is just icing on the cake. Seriously, if you’re looking for a great paranormal romance the Enhanced series is just what you need. Just make sure you read Five Minutes Longer first before jumping into this book. (In fact this review has some spoilers from the first book - so be warned.)
I really enjoy the fresh and creative spin Victoria Sue puts on this genre. It’s a little bit dystopian but still completely relatable to the world we live in today. She explores some interesting facets of what the introduction of enhanced humans would do to our society. Most disturbing are the wide variety of ways families deal with having an enhanced child and the complications which come along with it. Likewise, the government is struggling to keep up with changes that need to be made to provide for enhanced beings.
Talon and Finn make an interesting duo as a team comprised of an enhanced and regular human as the FBI explores how a Human Enhanced Rescue Organization (H.E.R.O.) can work in this new world. I love the pairing of sweet, inexperienced Finn with Talon as the totally hot and sexy, slightly jaded, older agent. The challenges this dynamic creates are a carry-over from the first book and continue to test their relationship.
Talon has some tough times in Who We Truly Are. Between coming to grips with his deepening affection for Finn, his mother’s unwelcome reappearance in his life, and the changes going on with his abilities, Talon’s issues provide some interesting ways Victoria Sue could take this series, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it all plays out.
Finn is just beginning to gain some confidence as an agent and wants to show he can do the job. Because he is still learning he makes some pretty bad mistakes, but he perseveres and suffers everything that goes along with having to own up to them. His insecurities come out in his romantic relationship with Talon too; but it’s okay because they work it all out in the sexiest way possible *wink*.
This is the perfect series for Nick J. Russo’s talented narration. He’s great at infusing a little humor in just the right places and his subtle brand of sexy snark lights me up just right. There are some intense scenes in Who We Truly Are and Russo brings the emotion, but keeps it real.
Victoria Sue has some wonderful tidbits about this series on her website, as well as a few scenes that didn’t make it into the books. So, if you’re a fan I encourage you to check it out. There are several ways the next book could go, but it’s safe to say it will be centered around Gael (yay)... and his new human partner. Whatever challenges the H.E.R.O.s face, it’s sure to be a seriously good time, and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I really enjoy the fresh and creative spin Victoria Sue puts on this genre. It’s a little bit dystopian but still completely relatable to the world we live in today. She explores some interesting facets of what the introduction of enhanced humans would do to our society. Most disturbing are the wide variety of ways families deal with having an enhanced child and the complications which come along with it. Likewise, the government is struggling to keep up with changes that need to be made to provide for enhanced beings.
Talon and Finn make an interesting duo as a team comprised of an enhanced and regular human as the FBI explores how a Human Enhanced Rescue Organization (H.E.R.O.) can work in this new world. I love the pairing of sweet, inexperienced Finn with Talon as the totally hot and sexy, slightly jaded, older agent. The challenges this dynamic creates are a carry-over from the first book and continue to test their relationship.
Talon has some tough times in Who We Truly Are. Between coming to grips with his deepening affection for Finn, his mother’s unwelcome reappearance in his life, and the changes going on with his abilities, Talon’s issues provide some interesting ways Victoria Sue could take this series, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it all plays out.
Finn is just beginning to gain some confidence as an agent and wants to show he can do the job. Because he is still learning he makes some pretty bad mistakes, but he perseveres and suffers everything that goes along with having to own up to them. His insecurities come out in his romantic relationship with Talon too; but it’s okay because they work it all out in the sexiest way possible *wink*.
This is the perfect series for Nick J. Russo’s talented narration. He’s great at infusing a little humor in just the right places and his subtle brand of sexy snark lights me up just right. There are some intense scenes in Who We Truly Are and Russo brings the emotion, but keeps it real.
Victoria Sue has some wonderful tidbits about this series on her website, as well as a few scenes that didn’t make it into the books. So, if you’re a fan I encourage you to check it out. There are several ways the next book could go, but it’s safe to say it will be centered around Gael (yay)... and his new human partner. Whatever challenges the H.E.R.O.s face, it’s sure to be a seriously good time, and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
February 28, 2018
More 'Enhanced' more Nick J. Russo...
and Karen's a happy girl...again!
Ok, I'm not sure how much more I can rave about the talents of Nick J. Russo so I'm probably going to keep it short and sweet when I say "I love Nick J. Russo. He's totally one of my favorite narrators' and for me he's totally rocked this series and as long as he's the narrator this series for me without a doubt is an auto-buy."
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book so needless to say when "Who We Truly Are" came out on audio needless to say I was on board for this and I really enjoyed this one as well. While there was a sameness at the heart of the story...which, good thing because it's a series and for me part of what I enjoy about a series is that underlying note of sameness that I get from book to book but I also like it when there's something unique about each book, a slightly different touch to the story and with "Who We Truly Are" I got that little bit of difference from the stories focus.
I the first book things seemed a bit more centered around the overall story and characters, building the world of the 'Enhanced'. So while we did get the beginnings of Talon and Finn's relationship, we also got to meet the rest of their team and there was a mission to be accomplished. Don't get me wrong I loved that first book or I wouldn't be here now. But I was more than happy when i realized that while there is yet another mission to be accomplished here there is also a stronger focus on building Talon and Finn's relationship and on Talon and Finn as individuals and I really, really loved this.
Finn's starting to come into his own as an agent. He's becoming more confident and others are beginning to realize that while he may not be an enhanced he still has something to bring to the team and he's proving himself to be a valuable asset. Meanwhile Talon's struggling with things, he wants to be supportive but his desires to be supportive are also battling with his instincts to be protective and keep Finn safe even a the price of his self-esteem. He loves Finn but can he reconcile what Finn needs from him with what his instincts are telling him to do before he totally looses him and just to complicate things Talon's struggling with changes that are happening to his enhanced powers...changes that no really seems to understand.
While both men are struggling with their own inner turmoil they've still go a job to do as young enhanced boys are disappearing and Finn begins to realize that he may well be the solution to this particular mystery.
I really like Talon and Finn for me they seem to bring out the best in each other. Each of them making the other look at who they are and who they could be. I loved that both Talon and Finn had to look at their role in their relationship and it wasn't a case of 'it's his fault'. For Talon and Finn it's not just a matter of making their relationship work on a personal level because they work together on the same team they need to work on a professional level as well because when you work with the person you love how good your relationship is or isn't affects people on a more direct level and it added another level to things when other team members weighed in on things between Talon and Finn.
At the end of it all I think we're left with Talon and Finn in a better place as a couple but I'm hoping that future stories will let us touch base with this pair while giving stories about the other members of Talon's Enhanced team as they continue to make their world a better place for both enhanced and regular people.
I'm really enjoying the unique flavor that this series has while it's in the same genre as some of my favorite series it's still got a unique flavor that's all it's own and I'm looking forward to enjoying more of it with 'Beneath This Mask' the third book in Victoria Sue's 'Enhanced' series.
*************************
An audiobook of 'Who We Truly Are' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
and Karen's a happy girl...again!
Ok, I'm not sure how much more I can rave about the talents of Nick J. Russo so I'm probably going to keep it short and sweet when I say "I love Nick J. Russo. He's totally one of my favorite narrators' and for me he's totally rocked this series and as long as he's the narrator this series for me without a doubt is an auto-buy."
I thoroughly enjoyed the first book so needless to say when "Who We Truly Are" came out on audio needless to say I was on board for this and I really enjoyed this one as well. While there was a sameness at the heart of the story...which, good thing because it's a series and for me part of what I enjoy about a series is that underlying note of sameness that I get from book to book but I also like it when there's something unique about each book, a slightly different touch to the story and with "Who We Truly Are" I got that little bit of difference from the stories focus.
I the first book things seemed a bit more centered around the overall story and characters, building the world of the 'Enhanced'. So while we did get the beginnings of Talon and Finn's relationship, we also got to meet the rest of their team and there was a mission to be accomplished. Don't get me wrong I loved that first book or I wouldn't be here now. But I was more than happy when i realized that while there is yet another mission to be accomplished here there is also a stronger focus on building Talon and Finn's relationship and on Talon and Finn as individuals and I really, really loved this.
Finn's starting to come into his own as an agent. He's becoming more confident and others are beginning to realize that while he may not be an enhanced he still has something to bring to the team and he's proving himself to be a valuable asset. Meanwhile Talon's struggling with things, he wants to be supportive but his desires to be supportive are also battling with his instincts to be protective and keep Finn safe even a the price of his self-esteem. He loves Finn but can he reconcile what Finn needs from him with what his instincts are telling him to do before he totally looses him and just to complicate things Talon's struggling with changes that are happening to his enhanced powers...changes that no really seems to understand.
While both men are struggling with their own inner turmoil they've still go a job to do as young enhanced boys are disappearing and Finn begins to realize that he may well be the solution to this particular mystery.
I really like Talon and Finn for me they seem to bring out the best in each other. Each of them making the other look at who they are and who they could be. I loved that both Talon and Finn had to look at their role in their relationship and it wasn't a case of 'it's his fault'. For Talon and Finn it's not just a matter of making their relationship work on a personal level because they work together on the same team they need to work on a professional level as well because when you work with the person you love how good your relationship is or isn't affects people on a more direct level and it added another level to things when other team members weighed in on things between Talon and Finn.
At the end of it all I think we're left with Talon and Finn in a better place as a couple but I'm hoping that future stories will let us touch base with this pair while giving stories about the other members of Talon's Enhanced team as they continue to make their world a better place for both enhanced and regular people.
I'm really enjoying the unique flavor that this series has while it's in the same genre as some of my favorite series it's still got a unique flavor that's all it's own and I'm looking forward to enjoying more of it with 'Beneath This Mask' the third book in Victoria Sue's 'Enhanced' series.
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An audiobook of 'Who We Truly Are' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2017
OHMYGHOSH I loved this! I think I loved it maybe a bit more than the first book, because I LOVE books where we get to see the couple become more than just a newly-together, newly-in-love type of couple, I love reading about what comes next. I LOVE that we got more of Finn and Talon in this rather than going to a new couple right away. And I love that we got to see them work things out and realize that they are good enough for the other and deserving of that love.
This book starts a couple months after Finn has become part of the H.E.R.O team, and while things are going better, there is still a lot that these guys have to overcome - from the idea of this team working vs. not working, to continued prejudice and hatred towards the Enhanced humans, to issues with Finn and Talon trying to really figure out their relationship and balancing that with working together, and how to move forward from what happened in the first book.
You definitely need to read the first book before this one since this is a direct continuation. I LOVE all the characters and cannot wait to read about the rest of the group and the humans that they'll get paired with. The writing in this is just excellent, some of the best from this author that I think I've ever read (and I've loved everything I've read from her!) so I highly, highly recommend this series!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book starts a couple months after Finn has become part of the H.E.R.O team, and while things are going better, there is still a lot that these guys have to overcome - from the idea of this team working vs. not working, to continued prejudice and hatred towards the Enhanced humans, to issues with Finn and Talon trying to really figure out their relationship and balancing that with working together, and how to move forward from what happened in the first book.
You definitely need to read the first book before this one since this is a direct continuation. I LOVE all the characters and cannot wait to read about the rest of the group and the humans that they'll get paired with. The writing in this is just excellent, some of the best from this author that I think I've ever read (and I've loved everything I've read from her!) so I highly, highly recommend this series!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 9, 2018
Yeah, this was just ok, and barely that. I cringed so much reading this story. I simply do not understand how these men are still alive. They are so hopelessly dumb!!!!! How is it possible they can't think of things earlier, possible solutions, or possible problems to plans they make. I saw flaws left and right and still they manage to survive. My eyes hurt from all the rolling they did. I can't say I recommend this.
The basis for the series is good, but the execution, for me, was poorly done. Finn is way to weak for me. Also the drama between Talon and Finn was so excruciating and over the top, I skimmed soooooo much because I just couldn't with them, or anyone else. I won't be continuing this series.
For those who loved it, I am so very glad you did. I can totally see how this is a loved series, and I really wish I had enjoyed it.
2 barely tolerated stars from me.
The basis for the series is good, but the execution, for me, was poorly done. Finn is way to weak for me. Also the drama between Talon and Finn was so excruciating and over the top, I skimmed soooooo much because I just couldn't with them, or anyone else. I won't be continuing this series.
For those who loved it, I am so very glad you did. I can totally see how this is a loved series, and I really wish I had enjoyed it.
2 barely tolerated stars from me.
January 17, 2021
Story-
✮4.5 Stars✮
💗
AudioBook Narration- ✮5 Stars✮ 💗
AudioBook Narration- ✮5 Stars✮ 💗
June 10, 2020
There's so much wrong with this novel that, if you enjoyed the first book, stop there. Trust me.
It is a romance in that things work out, but it's aggressively disappointing. Not all horrible, but the fails are systemic. It reads like no competent editor was involved in the published draft, more what you send TO an editor, not one you'd publish. There's a lot of thoughtless "plot," and equally dorky actions, and both main characters are stupider than the first book's versions, with a jealousy subplot that not only is nonsensical according to book 1, but never goes anywhere. (If there is no point to a subplot, you eliminate it. Or your editor tells you to fix it or eliminate it. That is what editing is for.) I've made notes with some of the highlights if you'd like to see a few of the errors.
I expected book 2 to give me more about what "Enhanced" is. It does not. If anything, it's further muddied for questionable reasons, which is insulting to readers when that's what attracted us here. If your fictional world has known spontaneous super-humans but no non-evil research into what it is, after however many years it's been happening, I call you on your laziness. In the real world, Enhanced would be thoroughly researched, and/or headhunted by military and security worldwide, or captives (hello, human smuggling). If cops have tranqs that work on them, military had that first, and thus so do mercenaries and criminals. It's ridiculous, the way "Victoria Sue" just glosses over all this potential. The bad guy in this book is pathetic by comparison.
Also ridiculous is that "most people" aren't concerned? *squints* Have you met humans? Our lizard-brain physiology is fight-or-flight. We're hard-wired to stay wary of potential danger. But the flip-side of that is, we're also looking for safety. We are social creatures; groups are safer, and safer still when protected by powerful guards. Befriending Enhanced would feel smart to a lot of people, even as some brand them as unilaterally dangerous, and others fall somewhere in between those extremes. That's human.
It is not all bad, but you need either a high tolerance for nonsense or an ability to get the gist from skimming to reach the end without snarling and scaring your pets. I skimmed. Oh, it does have one of the most ridiculous mid-disaster kisses I've ever seen. (Not a compliment.)
It is a romance in that things work out, but it's aggressively disappointing. Not all horrible, but the fails are systemic. It reads like no competent editor was involved in the published draft, more what you send TO an editor, not one you'd publish. There's a lot of thoughtless "plot," and equally dorky actions, and both main characters are stupider than the first book's versions, with a jealousy subplot that not only is nonsensical according to book 1, but never goes anywhere. (If there is no point to a subplot, you eliminate it. Or your editor tells you to fix it or eliminate it. That is what editing is for.) I've made notes with some of the highlights if you'd like to see a few of the errors.
I expected book 2 to give me more about what "Enhanced" is. It does not. If anything, it's further muddied for questionable reasons, which is insulting to readers when that's what attracted us here. If your fictional world has known spontaneous super-humans but no non-evil research into what it is, after however many years it's been happening, I call you on your laziness. In the real world, Enhanced would be thoroughly researched, and/or headhunted by military and security worldwide, or captives (hello, human smuggling). If cops have tranqs that work on them, military had that first, and thus so do mercenaries and criminals. It's ridiculous, the way "Victoria Sue" just glosses over all this potential. The bad guy in this book is pathetic by comparison.
Also ridiculous is that "most people" aren't concerned? *squints* Have you met humans? Our lizard-brain physiology is fight-or-flight. We're hard-wired to stay wary of potential danger. But the flip-side of that is, we're also looking for safety. We are social creatures; groups are safer, and safer still when protected by powerful guards. Befriending Enhanced would feel smart to a lot of people, even as some brand them as unilaterally dangerous, and others fall somewhere in between those extremes. That's human.
It is not all bad, but you need either a high tolerance for nonsense or an ability to get the gist from skimming to reach the end without snarling and scaring your pets. I skimmed. Oh, it does have one of the most ridiculous mid-disaster kisses I've ever seen. (Not a compliment.)
June 17, 2018
3.9 Stars
I liked this one more than I did the first, as the second book has the story arc hitting a better, more comfortable stride, plus there's a more interesting case for the team to investigate. I liked the team dynamics and the character growth as well; wasn't sure how Finn could love someone that didn't seem to trust him, or have faith in him, that didn't treat him as an equal - the walking hotness that is Talon aside - and I'm glad he confronted that...in himself and with Talon.
Definitely going to pick up the next one.
I liked this one more than I did the first, as the second book has the story arc hitting a better, more comfortable stride, plus there's a more interesting case for the team to investigate. I liked the team dynamics and the character growth as well; wasn't sure how Finn could love someone that didn't seem to trust him, or have faith in him, that didn't treat him as an equal - the walking hotness that is Talon aside - and I'm glad he confronted that...in himself and with Talon.
Definitely going to pick up the next one.
August 1, 2019
Not a standalone!
It continues where we left in the 1st book.
It gives closure to that case and to the mcs' love story.
It continues where we left in the 1st book.
It gives closure to that case and to the mcs' love story.
August 24, 2017
More of the same goodness. I really enjoyed this one. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. Loved learning more about the team and of course seeing Talon and Finn again.
July 14, 2017
Review written for The Blogger Girls.
The story of the H.E.R.O. Team continues here with the guys facing some new challenges. You really should read the first book to see how it all came about, but Ms. Sue does a great job at filling in a new reader or refreshing a previous reader’s mind with the important details.
There are a few things going on at this point in the story. The team as a whole is trying to prove their worth which is still difficult with various people opposing them for one reason or another, none of which are good. In the meantime, the Team is on a new case to solve the disappearances of numerous enhanced children. Finn is the one tasked with going undercover as an enhanced teen to help solve the mystery or draw out those involved.
Finn and Talon are moving along, but they have some issues as well. Finn is still trying to prove himself an asset to the team and still struggles with his own feelings of inadequacy. Unfortunately, Talon is having some trouble with his feeling of protectiveness, etc. which end up adding to Finn’s shaky faith in himself. This only makes Finn more determined to prove himself, but it definitely has an affect on their relationship. Luckily, they both work things out by the end of everything.
I love all of these unique characters and their various abilities, and that we learned or got to see more of them in action. There is an exciting twist with Talon’s evolving skills, and it should be interesting to see how this plays out in the future of the Team. There are a lot of potential players throwing possible wrenches into the plans, from shady politicians, to evil parents, with the enhanced thrown right smack into the middle of things.
I wasn’t quite as wowed by this installment as I was by the first, but I believe that is because of the explaining in the beginning of the story, as mentioned above. Once the story moves past that though, it takes off running and kept me turning pages. This story ends on a satisfying note, but there definitely feels like there is more to tell in upcoming books, and I’m really looking forward to seeing where Ms. Sue takes the Team next and how everything will turn out for the enhanced in general when all is said and done.
September 17, 2018
Re-read 2018
This book was absolutely AMAZING!
“Talon rested his chin on the top of Finn’s head. “You’re a gift,” he said in a low voice. “What the fuck did I ever do to deserve you?”
Seriously better than most of the superhero movies out there..!
In this book, we continue to follow Talon and Finn, Talon is struggling to be both the team leader and the boyfriend when it comes to Finn and Finn wants Talon to shows that he has enough faith in him to do his work, even though he is ONLY human.
“Because I’m not enhanced?” Finn said incredulously. “Because I’m not as perfect as you? Because an ordinary human can’t match up to your exacting standards, or because I can’t kill people just by thinking about it?”
Talon hissed in a breath. “I didn’t mean—” Shit, he just wanted Finn safe. “Finn,” he took hold of his arms. “Babe, please.”
The supporting characters (The Team) they are such a big part of the book, that you feel that you also get to know them a little more.
I know it's Gael next and I'm sure will be just as good, but would like to see a book with Sawyer, Eli and Sweet Sweet Bo, finger crossed that we got it.
“You saved me.”
Talon twisted his head and gently kissed his palm, then caught both of Finn’s hands in his. “I didn’t save you, Finn. You saved me. You’ve been doing that for weeks, and I don’t know what I would ever do if you left.”
This book was absolutely AMAZING!
“Talon rested his chin on the top of Finn’s head. “You’re a gift,” he said in a low voice. “What the fuck did I ever do to deserve you?”Seriously better than most of the superhero movies out there..!
In this book, we continue to follow Talon and Finn, Talon is struggling to be both the team leader and the boyfriend when it comes to Finn and Finn wants Talon to shows that he has enough faith in him to do his work, even though he is ONLY human.
“Because I’m not enhanced?” Finn said incredulously. “Because I’m not as perfect as you? Because an ordinary human can’t match up to your exacting standards, or because I can’t kill people just by thinking about it?”Talon hissed in a breath. “I didn’t mean—” Shit, he just wanted Finn safe. “Finn,” he took hold of his arms. “Babe, please.”
The supporting characters (The Team) they are such a big part of the book, that you feel that you also get to know them a little more.
I know it's Gael next and I'm sure will be just as good, but would like to see a book with Sawyer, Eli and Sweet Sweet Bo, finger crossed that we got it.
“You saved me.”Talon twisted his head and gently kissed his palm, then caught both of Finn’s hands in his. “I didn’t save you, Finn. You saved me. You’ve been doing that for weeks, and I don’t know what I would ever do if you left.”
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