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Tough Love #1
Mr. and Mr. Smith
Secrets and seduction make for an explosive combination in HelenKay Dimon’s edgy, thrilling new series, which kicks off with a novel about two men who can handle any threat—except the one posed by desire. Fisher Braun knows how to keep a secret. As a covert paramilitary operative, his job—and his life—depends on it. He’s at the top of his game, ready for action and always in control. No enemy has ever brought him to his knees, but one lover Zachary Allen, the man currently sharing his bed. The perfect package of brains and brawn, Zach is someone worth coming home to, and Fisher hates keeping him in the dark about what he does. But the lies keep Zach safe. Until the day Fisher loses everything. . . . Zachary Allen is no innocent civilian. Although he plays the tech geek, in reality he’s deep undercover for the CIA. In a horrible twist of fate, the criminal enterprise he’s infiltrated has set its sights on the man whose touch drives him wild. Zach would do anything for Fisher—except blow his own cover. Now, in order to save him, Zach must betray him first. And he needs Fisher to trust him with all his heart if they want to make it out alive. Includes a special message from the editor, as well as an excerpt from another Loveswept title.Praise for Mr. and Mr. Smith “If you like hot men, action, nerve-wracking situations and police books, you should read Mr. and Mr. Smith.”—The Book Adventures of Annelise Lestrange “This book is . . . a whole heck of a lot of fun, with a large cast of characters, lots of women in power, some angry-hot sex, physically improbable stunts, and lots of shit blowing up. If you like your romance with a little dash of Die Hard, this is the book for you.”—Binge On Books “If you are looking for some sexy, exciting, romantic suspense, I would definitely give Mr. and Mr. Smith a try. It is a fun story with lots of thrills and it looks to be the start of a great new series.”—Joyfully Jay “Mr. and Mr. Smith is a suspense-filled story. There are moments of abrasive and emotional tantrums . . . and inspiring scenes of one man’s love for another. The premise is entertaining; the characters are an eclectic mix of intense, impassioned, and real; the romance is a fight to the finish.”—The Reading Cafe “This book is worthy on all levels and has me anxiously waiting on others to follow.”—Scandalicious Book Reviews “The sexual tension between the men has a tendency to explode on the page, which will keep you fanning yourself as you try to cool down.”—Bookaholic Anon “This book had me on the edge of my seat for nearly the entire story. The plot is complex and the writing style kept me captivated from beginning to end. I did not want to put this book down until I finished it!”—Xtreme Delusions
215 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 24, 2016
About the author
HelenKay Dimon
163 books971 followersHelenKay Dimon is a divorce lawyer-turned-romance author. After dedicating years to helping people terminate relationships she now writes romance novels full time. Her books have earned praise, appeared on bestseller lists, won numerous awards and twice been named Red-Hot Reads and excerpted in Cosmo. She sometimes writes erotic romance, sometimes writes romantic suspense and sometimes writes contemporary romance. But no matter what she's writing her books are always filled with smart banter and sexy times, and a HEA is guaranteed.
-"Sharp writing and plenty of sexy romantic sizzle..." - John Charles, Chicago Tribune
-"So smart, sexy and fast-paced, I devour her stories." - Lori Foster, NYT bestselling author
-"Lots of heat with lots of humor." - MaryJanice Davidson, NYT bestselling author
-"She's a delight." - Christina Dodd, NYT bestselling author
-"Sharp writing and plenty of sexy romantic sizzle..." - John Charles, Chicago Tribune
-"So smart, sexy and fast-paced, I devour her stories." - Lori Foster, NYT bestselling author
-"Lots of heat with lots of humor." - MaryJanice Davidson, NYT bestselling author
-"She's a delight." - Christina Dodd, NYT bestselling author
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 276 reviews
January 3, 2017
Romantic thrillers aren't typically my genre, but I really enjoyed this story. It was exciting, fast paced, and sexy. Throw in two alpha males and, yowzah, the sparks fly!
The book begins and ends with a rescue. But who saves whom?
Zach and Fisher have been together for months, Fisher going against all protocol to keep the relationship hidden from the CIA (Fisher is an agent, a super secret one!).
Fisher always follows orders, but he's willing to break the rules for Zach—until he comes home to find his house ransacked and Zach gone. Until he realizes their entire relationship was a lie.
Is Zach whom he says he is? Is Fisher?
I've read spy/espionage type books that made not one lick of sense *cough s.e. jakes cough cough*, but I had no trouble following the plot here, which involves a wealthy, amoral *cough trump cough cough* family that makes money on delivering people, dead or alive, to the highest bidder (I'm simplifying, but you get the idea.).
Hell, I'm not saying the plot was realistic. But I. Don't. Care. Because badass CIA agents and wall sex.
The secondary characters, including Fisher's fellow agents, Seth and Nathan, were well developed. We even get some humour and banter.
I have no doubt that Zach and Fisher are committed to a future together. Fisher lets anger cloud his judgement, but he can't let Zach go. And Zach knows Fisher is his one and only. Theirs is a HEA (as much of a HEA as you can get when your job involves evil British aristocrats, explosives, and ex-lovers who may or may not be on your side).
The case, however, isn't resolved. The suspense plot continues in the next book. I can't wait!
The book begins and ends with a rescue. But who saves whom?
Zach and Fisher have been together for months, Fisher going against all protocol to keep the relationship hidden from the CIA (Fisher is an agent, a super secret one!).
Fisher always follows orders, but he's willing to break the rules for Zach—until he comes home to find his house ransacked and Zach gone. Until he realizes their entire relationship was a lie.
Is Zach whom he says he is? Is Fisher?
I've read spy/espionage type books that made not one lick of sense *cough s.e. jakes cough cough*, but I had no trouble following the plot here, which involves a wealthy, amoral *cough trump cough cough* family that makes money on delivering people, dead or alive, to the highest bidder (I'm simplifying, but you get the idea.).
Hell, I'm not saying the plot was realistic. But I. Don't. Care. Because badass CIA agents and wall sex.
The secondary characters, including Fisher's fellow agents, Seth and Nathan, were well developed. We even get some humour and banter.
I have no doubt that Zach and Fisher are committed to a future together. Fisher lets anger cloud his judgement, but he can't let Zach go. And Zach knows Fisher is his one and only. Theirs is a HEA (as much of a HEA as you can get when your job involves evil British aristocrats, explosives, and ex-lovers who may or may not be on your side).
The case, however, isn't resolved. The suspense plot continues in the next book. I can't wait!
February 17, 2018
I don’t know what took me so long to actually discover this series. I was obviously late to the party. 😁 And OMG! What a discovery! 😱 I love it! 😍 Well, hear me out. In case you don’t know, I’m a sucker for anything Angelina Jolie. I wanna do her sooooo so bad. 😂 And unsurprisingly, Mr. and Mrs. Smith was one of my favorite movies. I loved it. 😏 I know it’s kinda silly and comedic, but I just loved how funny and witty it was. So when I saw this book, I knew that I needed to read this just for the name sake alone. 😉 And I made an excellent decision. 😌
Fisher, a true lone wolf, who has never considered falling in love and is afraid of commitment. After being kicked out of the house by his own father for being gay, he had learned not to expect much from people ... until he met Zach.
Zach, a man without family, not by his choice but by unfortunate series of life. He’s willing to sacrifice even himself for the greater things for the nation and people. But after he met Fisher, for the very first time in his life, he becomes even more important than his mission.
Both Zach and Fisher work for CIA. But only Zach knew that they were both agents and Fisher had no idea at all. He thought Zach was a computer tech and he lied to him that he’s an engineer. But actually Zach is in a very deep undercover mission for a very important operation. But of course, for Fisher, he was his anchor that made him look forward to coming home from his missions all over the world. 😌 And suddenly, he found out that Zach isn’t at all who he thinks he is.
Obviously, since this is a suspense-filled action thriller, I can’t talk much about the story without revealing the plots. But let me tell you, it was real exciting! 😱😍 Fisher was a bit of an arsehole in the beginning but he grows on you. 😉 And his temper tantrum was totally understandable since he unexpectedly found out that his boyfriend had been lying to him the whole time. And the UST before they made up? Ooooooooo, that was just electric and flaming! 🔥 Loved it. ❤️ It just made it that much sweeter and jucier for when they actually had sex. 😉 One dominant-as-fuck agent and one power-bottom agent!?!?! I loved it! 😍I want the first row ticket to their love making show! 😂 I loved how things logically worked out for them in the end. They more than deserved their HEA. And since this is a series, I’m hoping to get some pieces of them in the other books. And I’m definitely going to devour this whole series. It was a pure delight to read this one. 😌
Favorite excerpts from the novel: 💙
Zach reached into his back pocket and took out his wallet. Dropped a bill on the counter before setting Fisher’s glass on top of it. “You’re paid up.” Zach stood. “We can go when you’re ready.” It only took one more look, a lazy glance down Zach’s long legs, for Fisher to dive in. Condoms. Bed. That’s all he needed. Hell, he could do this guy against a wall as long as it happened soon. “You can take the lead.” Zach’s eyebrow lifted. “Really?” Fisher liked his style. “Until I get your clothes off. Then I’m in charge.”
“I was your mark.” “You know that’s not true.” Zach lifted his hands and rested them against Fisher’s stomach. “You meant everything.”
When he dropped to the floor and put his mouth on him, Zach swore he heard an explosion of music in his head. It was an almost sacred moment of coming together—no words, pure connection. Heat and mouths and hands. They’d had three condoms between them and Fisher had bribed the front desk clerk for more. One perfect night of fucking. Totally in sync. It led to talking and breakfast.
Their relationship had moved past just sex right from the beginning, but the sex was pretty damn great. The act generally left him feeling exhausted but strong. Shaken by how good it felt and a little off kilter that it meant so much. Not just heat and enjoyment. Something deeper. Empowered, in a way.
This he would savor. As keyed up as he was, his body might not hold out for long, but it didn’t matter. He’d remember this. Every breath. Every lick of Fisher’s tongue and the heat of his mouth.
“I love you.” His gaze searched Fisher’s face. “I know you don’t believe it, don’t think you deserve it, but I needed you to hear it at least one time.”
“And you need to know that I won’t either. I won’t kick you out if you say the wrong thing. I won’t abandon you.” Zach took another hit of oxygen before his mouth broke into a smile. “People have disappointed you and left you behind. I won’t.”
4.5 sexy Mr. and Mr. Smith stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Fisher, a true lone wolf, who has never considered falling in love and is afraid of commitment. After being kicked out of the house by his own father for being gay, he had learned not to expect much from people ... until he met Zach.
Zach, a man without family, not by his choice but by unfortunate series of life. He’s willing to sacrifice even himself for the greater things for the nation and people. But after he met Fisher, for the very first time in his life, he becomes even more important than his mission.
Both Zach and Fisher work for CIA. But only Zach knew that they were both agents and Fisher had no idea at all. He thought Zach was a computer tech and he lied to him that he’s an engineer. But actually Zach is in a very deep undercover mission for a very important operation. But of course, for Fisher, he was his anchor that made him look forward to coming home from his missions all over the world. 😌 And suddenly, he found out that Zach isn’t at all who he thinks he is.
Obviously, since this is a suspense-filled action thriller, I can’t talk much about the story without revealing the plots. But let me tell you, it was real exciting! 😱😍 Fisher was a bit of an arsehole in the beginning but he grows on you. 😉 And his temper tantrum was totally understandable since he unexpectedly found out that his boyfriend had been lying to him the whole time. And the UST before they made up? Ooooooooo, that was just electric and flaming! 🔥 Loved it. ❤️ It just made it that much sweeter and jucier for when they actually had sex. 😉 One dominant-as-fuck agent and one power-bottom agent!?!?! I loved it! 😍I want the first row ticket to their love making show! 😂 I loved how things logically worked out for them in the end. They more than deserved their HEA. And since this is a series, I’m hoping to get some pieces of them in the other books. And I’m definitely going to devour this whole series. It was a pure delight to read this one. 😌
Favorite excerpts from the novel: 💙
Zach reached into his back pocket and took out his wallet. Dropped a bill on the counter before setting Fisher’s glass on top of it. “You’re paid up.” Zach stood. “We can go when you’re ready.” It only took one more look, a lazy glance down Zach’s long legs, for Fisher to dive in. Condoms. Bed. That’s all he needed. Hell, he could do this guy against a wall as long as it happened soon. “You can take the lead.” Zach’s eyebrow lifted. “Really?” Fisher liked his style. “Until I get your clothes off. Then I’m in charge.”
“I was your mark.” “You know that’s not true.” Zach lifted his hands and rested them against Fisher’s stomach. “You meant everything.”
When he dropped to the floor and put his mouth on him, Zach swore he heard an explosion of music in his head. It was an almost sacred moment of coming together—no words, pure connection. Heat and mouths and hands. They’d had three condoms between them and Fisher had bribed the front desk clerk for more. One perfect night of fucking. Totally in sync. It led to talking and breakfast.
Their relationship had moved past just sex right from the beginning, but the sex was pretty damn great. The act generally left him feeling exhausted but strong. Shaken by how good it felt and a little off kilter that it meant so much. Not just heat and enjoyment. Something deeper. Empowered, in a way.
This he would savor. As keyed up as he was, his body might not hold out for long, but it didn’t matter. He’d remember this. Every breath. Every lick of Fisher’s tongue and the heat of his mouth.
“I love you.” His gaze searched Fisher’s face. “I know you don’t believe it, don’t think you deserve it, but I needed you to hear it at least one time.”
“And you need to know that I won’t either. I won’t kick you out if you say the wrong thing. I won’t abandon you.” Zach took another hit of oxygen before his mouth broke into a smile. “People have disappointed you and left you behind. I won’t.”
4.5 sexy Mr. and Mr. Smith stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
February 22, 2018
I was disappointed when the blurb turned out to be the background to the actual story. I was really looking forward to reading about Fisher and Zach meeting and their relationship development as they both lead double lives.
Fisher really frustrated me. Yes, I get that he felt betrayed by Zach, but it's not like he was completely honest with Zach during their relationship.
Too bad Fisher's hurt feelings lasted so long, because once he stopped acting like an idiot, I really like him and Zach as a couple.
Fisher really frustrated me. Yes, I get that he felt betrayed by Zach, but it's not like he was completely honest with Zach during their relationship.
Too bad Fisher's hurt feelings lasted so long, because once he stopped acting like an idiot, I really like him and Zach as a couple.
September 22, 2024
4 Stars
What happens when a covert agent realizes the man he loves lied to him, barring the fact that he lied about the very nature of his own job and identity? What happens when a double agent, in an effort to protect one of his own, falls for him instead?? Apparently, all sorts of complications and yummy goodness. I mean, who doesn't love spies and espionage, and shit blowing up??
You've got Fisher, who's a lot stubborn but understandably betrayed. Then you've got Zach, who's torn between duty and the man he can't let go. These lone wolves have found a sanctuary in the other they never thought possible. Too bad the foundation of their relationship is a lot shaky. However they have a job to do, and that's protecting the other and not getting dead.
Major points go towards the genre itself - tough men going tender is the fabulous icing on the proverbial cake. Overall this was great fun, despite a bit of frustration in the first half regarding Fisher. Once he pulls his head out of his ass, that's when things take off.
Bottom line - this had angsty feels, darn good smex, tense action, and sweet, sweet proclamations. Definitely hard to resist such a heady mix! High five!
What happens when a covert agent realizes the man he loves lied to him, barring the fact that he lied about the very nature of his own job and identity? What happens when a double agent, in an effort to protect one of his own, falls for him instead?? Apparently, all sorts of complications and yummy goodness. I mean, who doesn't love spies and espionage, and shit blowing up??
You've got Fisher, who's a lot stubborn but understandably betrayed. Then you've got Zach, who's torn between duty and the man he can't let go. These lone wolves have found a sanctuary in the other they never thought possible. Too bad the foundation of their relationship is a lot shaky. However they have a job to do, and that's protecting the other and not getting dead.
Major points go towards the genre itself - tough men going tender is the fabulous icing on the proverbial cake. Overall this was great fun, despite a bit of frustration in the first half regarding Fisher. Once he pulls his head out of his ass, that's when things take off.
Bottom line - this had angsty feels, darn good smex, tense action, and sweet, sweet proclamations. Definitely hard to resist such a heady mix! High five!
January 6, 2017
This one was just okay for me. Romantic suspense is one of my favorite genres but neither the romance or the suspense really wowed me.
The beginning and end were pretty exciting. But the big chunk in the middle was pretty slow and a bit on the boring side. It didn't really hold my attention.
Fisher was a bit of a hypocritical ass. But I liked Zach. And there was some good banter, mostly between Nathan and Fisher.
Maybe I would have enjoyed the romance more if we got some of Zach and Fisher together before the truth came out?
I may read the next one. The writing was good. The sex was pretty good, given the circumstances and setting of this book. ()
The beginning and end were pretty exciting. But the big chunk in the middle was pretty slow and a bit on the boring side. It didn't really hold my attention.
Fisher was a bit of a hypocritical ass. But I liked Zach. And there was some good banter, mostly between Nathan and Fisher.
Maybe I would have enjoyed the romance more if we got some of Zach and Fisher together before the truth came out?
I may read the next one. The writing was good. The sex was pretty good, given the circumstances and setting of this book. ()
January 3, 2017
~3.75 stars~
This one was enjoyable, thought not the best romantic suspense I've read. Fisher and Zach are both CIA agents, though only Zach knows that. Fisher keeps his identity a secret, even from his boyfriend, because that's protocol.
It was a fun ride, with certain twists that added entertainment value, and some that are still up in the air - for the next book, I guess.
It had its OTT moments and times when you really need to suspend your disbelief, but you should read this for the entertainment value only. It's not like any of us really knows what goes on in covert Black Ops within the CIA, right? (Psst - and I don't want to know).
And, at the risk of getting something thrown at me, there was gratuitous sex in this book. I know! I'm a perv like the rest of you, but come on! The sex has to feel organic to the story. This book took place over just 24 hours, and the men were NEVER alone. How can 3 sex scenes in 24 hours with others in the house be reasonable? It just didn't feel like it fit.
This one was enjoyable, thought not the best romantic suspense I've read. Fisher and Zach are both CIA agents, though only Zach knows that. Fisher keeps his identity a secret, even from his boyfriend, because that's protocol.
It was a fun ride, with certain twists that added entertainment value, and some that are still up in the air - for the next book, I guess.
It had its OTT moments and times when you really need to suspend your disbelief, but you should read this for the entertainment value only. It's not like any of us really knows what goes on in covert Black Ops within the CIA, right? (Psst - and I don't want to know).
And, at the risk of getting something thrown at me, there was gratuitous sex in this book. I know! I'm a perv like the rest of you, but come on! The sex has to feel organic to the story. This book took place over just 24 hours, and the men were NEVER alone. How can 3 sex scenes in 24 hours with others in the house be reasonable? It just didn't feel like it fit.
February 9, 2017
As Mr. and Mr. Smith begins, we are thrown head-first into a helluva crisis with Fisher discovering his boyfriend Zach has been kidnapped by Pentasus, a nefarious crime group. But when Fisher and his brother-in-arms Nathan rush in to the rescue, Fisher discovers Zach on the other side of a gun, deep undercover for the CIA, or is he?
The chemistry between Fisher and Zach is palpable and the first part of the book - when Fisher is absolutely convinced that Zach is working for Pentasus and started their relationship solely to gather intel - sizzles with sexual tension. At this point, I am thinking I love this book, tell me more ... BUT ... yes, there is a big but coming (why am I hearing Peter Griffin in my head?) ...
and from this point on, it's like a committee meeting ... okay, a really boring subcommittee meeting, but interspersed with hawt man sex.
... and then, BOOM, we are back into an exciting conclusion that just pulses with potential double crosses, gripping action and lots and lots of gunfire and explosions. The premise of the plot is great - a gripping situation with two men who have found each other in the most improbable of circumstances - but the story loses every bit of drive for a long section in the middle, and then redeems itself beautifully at the end. Dimon does a good job of introducing additional characters and situations for future books in this series, while still giving us an ending that feels right for Zach and Fisher and I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at GayBook Reviews. Check it out!
The chemistry between Fisher and Zach is palpable and the first part of the book - when Fisher is absolutely convinced that Zach is working for Pentasus and started their relationship solely to gather intel - sizzles with sexual tension. At this point, I am thinking I love this book, tell me more ... BUT ... yes, there is a big but coming (why am I hearing Peter Griffin in my head?) ...
and from this point on, it's like a committee meeting ... okay, a really boring subcommittee meeting, but interspersed with hawt man sex.
... and then, BOOM, we are back into an exciting conclusion that just pulses with potential double crosses, gripping action and lots and lots of gunfire and explosions. The premise of the plot is great - a gripping situation with two men who have found each other in the most improbable of circumstances - but the story loses every bit of drive for a long section in the middle, and then redeems itself beautifully at the end. Dimon does a good job of introducing additional characters and situations for future books in this series, while still giving us an ending that feels right for Zach and Fisher and I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at GayBook Reviews. Check it out!
February 9, 2017
3.5 Stars
When covert CIA operative Fisher Braun discovers that his (secret) civilian lover Zach has been kidnapped by Pentasus – a murderous people smuggling crime organisation – he throws protocol and caution to the wind and mans an ill-advised rescue mission, with only his bestie and fellow operative Nathan as back-up.
Shit hits the fan quickly when the pair is captured on sight.
Shit really hits the fan when one of their captors is none other than Zach himself.
As it turns out, Zach isn’t the innocent, computer geek boyfriend that Fisher once assumed. He’s actually a fellow CIA agent, deep undercover in Pentasus, having infiltrated the group in an attempt to bring the whole organisation (and its affiliates) down from the inside.
Here, things get dicey for Zach. In trying to maintain his undercover status and while also fighting to keep his lover alive and out of harm’s way, he must act the part and play the villain that Fisher suddenly believes him to be (at least initially). Fisher reacts naturally: both shocked and betrayed at his lover’s deception, but also confused, because it’s also clear Zach’s situation isn’t all that it appears to be.
Fisher must decide whether to let these newly discovered revelations drive his reactions or whether to trust his instinctive feelings for Zach and put his faith in his lover.
The story starts strong and ends strong, with a lot of hypocritical arguments and heated sex scenes in the middle. I truly enjoyed all the explosive action-packed scenes which book-ended this story and I liked the introduction to the despicable River’s family (the assholes who run Pentasus) and the pivotal need for the CIA (and other organisations) to bring them down. I did, however, take issue with how over-dramatically Fisher felt betrayed by Zach’s lies; mainly because he too had been lying from the get-go about who he was and what he did. It all seemed a bit hypocritical to me. Especially because Fisher keep up with the whiny, unforgiving bullshit, even well after it was obvious that Zach was undercover and had protocols to follow just like Fisher did. I clearly reacted to all of this with a bit of a “get over it already” mentality.
Luckily, “get over it already” they did. The confused feelings and the sweetness and the steam and the two sexy alpha males who are super sexy covert agent’s thing really worked for me in the end and I’m looking forward to reading the next installment!
When covert CIA operative Fisher Braun discovers that his (secret) civilian lover Zach has been kidnapped by Pentasus – a murderous people smuggling crime organisation – he throws protocol and caution to the wind and mans an ill-advised rescue mission, with only his bestie and fellow operative Nathan as back-up.
Shit hits the fan quickly when the pair is captured on sight.
Shit really hits the fan when one of their captors is none other than Zach himself.
As it turns out, Zach isn’t the innocent, computer geek boyfriend that Fisher once assumed. He’s actually a fellow CIA agent, deep undercover in Pentasus, having infiltrated the group in an attempt to bring the whole organisation (and its affiliates) down from the inside.
Here, things get dicey for Zach. In trying to maintain his undercover status and while also fighting to keep his lover alive and out of harm’s way, he must act the part and play the villain that Fisher suddenly believes him to be (at least initially). Fisher reacts naturally: both shocked and betrayed at his lover’s deception, but also confused, because it’s also clear Zach’s situation isn’t all that it appears to be.
Fisher must decide whether to let these newly discovered revelations drive his reactions or whether to trust his instinctive feelings for Zach and put his faith in his lover.
The story starts strong and ends strong, with a lot of hypocritical arguments and heated sex scenes in the middle. I truly enjoyed all the explosive action-packed scenes which book-ended this story and I liked the introduction to the despicable River’s family (the assholes who run Pentasus) and the pivotal need for the CIA (and other organisations) to bring them down. I did, however, take issue with how over-dramatically Fisher felt betrayed by Zach’s lies; mainly because he too had been lying from the get-go about who he was and what he did. It all seemed a bit hypocritical to me. Especially because Fisher keep up with the whiny, unforgiving bullshit, even well after it was obvious that Zach was undercover and had protocols to follow just like Fisher did. I clearly reacted to all of this with a bit of a “get over it already” mentality.
Luckily, “get over it already” they did. The confused feelings and the sweetness and the steam and the two sexy alpha males who are super sexy covert agent’s thing really worked for me in the end and I’m looking forward to reading the next installment!
February 8, 2017
The introduction held such promise but this very quickly slipped off the rails. Far from the action packed spy thriller promised this turned out to be a bunch of teenagers emoting.
Fisher: OMG you lied to me more than I was lying to you
Zach: But the sex was good
Fisher: OMG I'll never get over this
Others: You so bad Zach
Zach: But I super secreter than you spy
Fisher: Me too, but you lied to me more than I lied to you
Zach: I know, but the sex was so good
Others: oooohh!
Zach: Reveals he knows top secret highly classified de-coder ring free in box of cereal info
Fisher: Stop trying to distract me, OMG I had feelings for you, the sex was so good I can never trust you again
Others: Judging you Zach don't you try to distract us
ME: Did any of you highly trained people notice he knows stuff he shouldn't?
Zach: I must now go on completely illogical suicide mission mission because the sex was that good
Fisher: OMG you lied to me, I'll never trust you
Others: How could you?
Caring/Cold woman boss: You could die Zach
Zach: The sex was that good
ME: There is not enough emo music in the world to get me through this.
I may be paraphrasing. Seriously though all that emotion and incompetence from highly trained covert op people was ridiculous. They were still sitting around emoting when I gave up. Is it to late for a refund? Going to try for one anyway.
Fisher: OMG you lied to me more than I was lying to you
Zach: But the sex was good
Fisher: OMG I'll never get over this
Others: You so bad Zach
Zach: But I super secreter than you spy
Fisher: Me too, but you lied to me more than I lied to you
Zach: I know, but the sex was so good
Others: oooohh!
Zach: Reveals he knows top secret highly classified de-coder ring free in box of cereal info
Fisher: Stop trying to distract me, OMG I had feelings for you, the sex was so good I can never trust you again
Others: Judging you Zach don't you try to distract us
ME: Did any of you highly trained people notice he knows stuff he shouldn't?
Zach: I must now go on completely illogical suicide mission mission because the sex was that good
Fisher: OMG you lied to me, I'll never trust you
Others: How could you?
Caring/Cold woman boss: You could die Zach
Zach: The sex was that good
ME: There is not enough emo music in the world to get me through this.
I may be paraphrasing. Seriously though all that emotion and incompetence from highly trained covert op people was ridiculous. They were still sitting around emoting when I gave up. Is it to late for a refund? Going to try for one anyway.
February 10, 2018
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*I kinda liked it*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
This wasn't all that bad. The book centers around a covert paramilitary operative (for the Special Activities Division of the CIA), Fisher Braun (how old?) and a deep undercover agent for the CIA, Zachary ‘Zach’ Allen (how old?). The truth about who they are comes out when Fisher's life is in danger and Zach does everything to protect him. That doesn't mean the danger is over, nor that Fisher is ready to forgive Zach for lying.
He saw one of them shake his head and Fisher’s world imploded. There, in front of what felt like a million people, he collapsed on the grass and lost it.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series (Can Be Read As A Standalone), Book One.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Fisher Braun.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - Sure.
Rating - 3.5 stars.
December 10, 2016
3.5 stars
Wow…the first 25% of this book had me HOOKED and reminded me of the really great romantic action-suspense books I used to read by Cindy Gerard and Pamela Clare. It hit me that I haven’t come across any (or at least not many) really great suspense’y novels in the LGBTQ+ romance library. I missed that…something…ah, yes…that quick adrenaline rush straight off the bat, that had me hair-on-fire reading page after page. So, as I was reading “Mr. and Mr. Smith”, right away I thought “HOOOYEAH!”
Fisher and Zach are trying to have a ‘normal’, lowkey relationship. Problem is, they’re both CIA agents hiding their identities, and their missions, from each other. And they are in DANGER! Recipe for disaster? You betcha, over and over again. And I kinda just love that premise.
Now, truth be told, as exciting as the first bits and the last bits of this book were, the middle did drag a little...ok, a lot. There was a lot of battling of feelings and trying to come to terms with emotions. It was a struggle for the characters and ultimately felt like a bit of a struggle for the reader too. But really, the beginning and the ending made it worth it, methinks.
And along with the main couple, who I was FEELING by the way (sexy and growly and alpha’y and lovey-dovey with each other), I’m really really intrigued by so many of the side characters. As I’m hoping that this is a first of a series, I’m excited to get more of their stories!
What's to Like:
Did I mention two CIA agents?
What's to Love:
A full stack of characters that had me excited for more stories, hopefully intertwining with others! Also, the final mission and rescue scenes are CRAZY and FUN! And of course, tell me more about the German operative!
Beware of:
Something about the sex scenes lacked luster. I think the words were hot enough, and I bought the chemistry between the two. But it didn’t all come together. Clinical? Or just generic? Uncertain. But the sex scenes, and there were a lot of them, didn’t really work for me.
This Book is For:
Romantic suspense fans. Fans of HelenKay Dimon. Or those who have been wanting to read her. Or if you just want a huge dose of alpha male(s).
February 5, 2017
3.5 Stars
Not a bad start to a series.
Not a bad start to a series.
May 26, 2016
Goodness. Lots of bickering. And I agree with someone who said the actual betrayal would have socked me in the gut harder had I seen some of their actual day-to-day relationship rather than picking up at the moment of betrayal. I mean I still got it. I actually think I never got over Fisher being a mark. I GOT him being angry and kinda never was okay with Zach again even after Fisher got ok with things.
The spoiler is TOTALLY just a personal opinion on the Big Betrayal. Others may not feel as strongly as I about these situations.
And omg that the whole book happened in hours. I hate books that only give me a week and this one was a day in the life. Though, I guess at least it wasn't an insta-love, one week only read. Those REALLY chap my ass. But that's neither here nor there. Other than srsly. The whole book took place over maybe 24-36 hours. *eyetwitch*
That said. I liked it well enough. The writing itself was vivid and sharp. The action scenes were well written and I did want to see how the overall was resolved. But it was VERY frustrating in the middle. Bicker bicker snipe redundant snipe. And for a "New York" book, the editing was... questionable.
I'll be interested to see how the next book in the series goes but idk ... Guess you'd hav to see for yourself. I'll at least give Ms. Dimon another read in the future.
The spoiler is TOTALLY just a personal opinion on the Big Betrayal. Others may not feel as strongly as I about these situations.
And omg that the whole book happened in hours. I hate books that only give me a week and this one was a day in the life. Though, I guess at least it wasn't an insta-love, one week only read. Those REALLY chap my ass. But that's neither here nor there. Other than srsly. The whole book took place over maybe 24-36 hours. *eyetwitch*
That said. I liked it well enough. The writing itself was vivid and sharp. The action scenes were well written and I did want to see how the overall was resolved. But it was VERY frustrating in the middle. Bicker bicker snipe redundant snipe. And for a "New York" book, the editing was... questionable.
I'll be interested to see how the next book in the series goes but idk ... Guess you'd hav to see for yourself. I'll at least give Ms. Dimon another read in the future.
February 9, 2017
Do you remember the movie Mr. and Mrs. Smith? It was a favorite of mine so when I saw this title I had to take a peek.
It starts off with a bang. A heart-stopping situation where your worst fears come true. Except, you didn't know you had even more to fear. There's a reveal that is so much worse. Not only heart-stopping, but heart-shattering. So much action, suspense, intrigue, betrayal.
Between trying to stay alive, keeping each other alive and reconciling the feelings of betrayal with the passionate emotions of a romantic relationship, these characters take us on a non-stop ride. The action only slows long enough to get us tense and anxious over issues of trust and betrayal. Then the action picks back up and what started out with a bang ends in a huge explosion.
I fell for every character introduced. I want to know more about every single one of these guys. This is my kind of story. The movie is a pale comparison to how good this book is.
My ultimate measure of a great writer is when I read a book and never once analyze anything about the writing. Instead, I'm wholly focused on the story and only at the very end do I look up and say "WOW".
***ARC received courtesy of Loveswept publishing via Netgalley.
It starts off with a bang. A heart-stopping situation where your worst fears come true. Except, you didn't know you had even more to fear. There's a reveal that is so much worse. Not only heart-stopping, but heart-shattering. So much action, suspense, intrigue, betrayal.
Between trying to stay alive, keeping each other alive and reconciling the feelings of betrayal with the passionate emotions of a romantic relationship, these characters take us on a non-stop ride. The action only slows long enough to get us tense and anxious over issues of trust and betrayal. Then the action picks back up and what started out with a bang ends in a huge explosion.
I fell for every character introduced. I want to know more about every single one of these guys. This is my kind of story. The movie is a pale comparison to how good this book is.
My ultimate measure of a great writer is when I read a book and never once analyze anything about the writing. Instead, I'm wholly focused on the story and only at the very end do I look up and say "WOW".
***ARC received courtesy of Loveswept publishing via Netgalley.
February 7, 2017
I'm finding it very difficult to rate books like this (CIA, FBI agents etc) without comparing them to Roux and Urban's Ty and Zane. These two characters set a certain standard for all crazy, hard-ass guys of that profession who get into the most impossible and dangerous situations all the time and are as tough as door nails, whilst melting your heart with their vulnerability.
There is a lot I really enjoyed about this book.
The scenario was fun and bound to cause havoc and it did just as much.
The plot was mildly OTT, which I didn't mind because that is exactly what I expected. It was definitely entertaining and easy to read leaving enough promise for the second book (which I just bought btw)
I really liked Zach who is so ready to do anything for Fisher, but alas has lied to him about some very basic facts.
Shouldn't Fisher be a little bit more understanding of the situation Zach finds himself in? Shouldn't he trust Zach a little bit more in the feels department?
On the one hand I understand why Fisher is gutted when he finds out about Zach's secret, why he goes into free fall, overwhelmed by betrayal and disgust. Yes, I get why he doesn't want to trust Zach again. I really totally get it.
But on the other hand I was getting slightly fed up with his temper tantrums as time went on and when he threw one hissy fit after the other. Of course I realize this has also to do with his own issues and with him not being ready for a real relationship, but it did get marginally irritating for some reason. I was also not sold on the sex scenes - there seemed to be too much rough with very little underlying tenderness.
Still this book is entertaining, and I enjoyed it apart from my little niggles. I'm certainly happy to recommend and will read book 2.
Maybe not quite the whole 4 stars, but pretty close!
There is a lot I really enjoyed about this book.
The scenario was fun and bound to cause havoc and it did just as much.
The plot was mildly OTT, which I didn't mind because that is exactly what I expected. It was definitely entertaining and easy to read leaving enough promise for the second book (which I just bought btw)
I really liked Zach who is so ready to do anything for Fisher, but alas has lied to him about some very basic facts.
Shouldn't Fisher be a little bit more understanding of the situation Zach finds himself in? Shouldn't he trust Zach a little bit more in the feels department?
On the one hand I understand why Fisher is gutted when he finds out about Zach's secret, why he goes into free fall, overwhelmed by betrayal and disgust. Yes, I get why he doesn't want to trust Zach again. I really totally get it.
But on the other hand I was getting slightly fed up with his temper tantrums as time went on and when he threw one hissy fit after the other. Of course I realize this has also to do with his own issues and with him not being ready for a real relationship, but it did get marginally irritating for some reason. I was also not sold on the sex scenes - there seemed to be too much rough with very little underlying tenderness.
Still this book is entertaining, and I enjoyed it apart from my little niggles. I'm certainly happy to recommend and will read book 2.
Maybe not quite the whole 4 stars, but pretty close!
June 30, 2021
I'm not sure what I expected, but probably not quite that. It is not a bad thing. I just think I was expecting a different storyline. But it's a cute story, probably inspired a bit by “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” movie.
I like the reunion theme in my books, but I don't like that much when the main characters are already a couple at the beginning of the book and we watch them break up for some reason, and the plot focuses on them trying to work out their problems. Unfortunately, here we have this second theme. This is of course my personal preference, so most readers probably will not be bothered by it. It didn't bother me much either, but it took away a bit of the joy of reading this book.
Zach and Fisher are fine as the main characters. Still, they both could be a little more developed. Together, they make a lovely couple and their feelings seem believable. Although Fisher's feelings felt a little too extreme at times, he moved too quickly from one emotional state to another.
Anyone looking for a lot of action won't be disappointed. There is a lot of it here. There are shootings and explosions. I warn more sensitive readers that there is also a torture scene, and one of the heroes agrees to be shot for the sake of the mission.
I know this book is the beginning of a series and I can see some characters that will probably appear in the next books. This one was a good, uncomplicated entertainment.
I like the reunion theme in my books, but I don't like that much when the main characters are already a couple at the beginning of the book and we watch them break up for some reason, and the plot focuses on them trying to work out their problems. Unfortunately, here we have this second theme. This is of course my personal preference, so most readers probably will not be bothered by it. It didn't bother me much either, but it took away a bit of the joy of reading this book.
Zach and Fisher are fine as the main characters. Still, they both could be a little more developed. Together, they make a lovely couple and their feelings seem believable. Although Fisher's feelings felt a little too extreme at times, he moved too quickly from one emotional state to another.
Anyone looking for a lot of action won't be disappointed. There is a lot of it here. There are shootings and explosions. I warn more sensitive readers that there is also a torture scene, and one of the heroes agrees to be shot for the sake of the mission.
I know this book is the beginning of a series and I can see some characters that will probably appear in the next books. This one was a good, uncomplicated entertainment.
April 3, 2016
I'm new to HelenKay Dimon's writing so I didn't know what to expect of. What first drew me to this book was the title and I was curious if it'd be M/M version of Brangelina's Mr. and Mrs. Smith. ;-)
Turns out it was a mellower, sappy, very talkative, and not to mention whinier version of spy romance. At least to me.
Set in London, the story told of two characters who were respectively a field officer - Zach - and a black ops one - Fisher - of different divisions at CIA. Some orchestrated deceit got Fisher into the bad guys' hands and he was beyond furious to find who's in bed with the villains.
This was a very fast pace story that basically covered about 36 hours for majority of the pages. With the sixty percent of that majority portion containing one supposedly top notched CIA agent sulking and whining over being duped and lied to by another agent. While the other agent repeatedly "apologized and tried to reason". And I thought operatives or spies or whatever supposed to be hardened men that trained to deceive and expected the same from others.
That Fisher went around and around whined that Zach lied to him and hurled hurtful words before going back and pawing Zach then whining and yelling at him again and again was just exhausting. On top of that, the case and situation they were in were supposed to be life-and-dead critical. But within that time, these two agents managed to made scenes in front of their team mates (like bitching at each other during debriefing), wool gathering instead of paying attention to their mission, sneaking around and had sex at least a couple of times. Personally, I could not find their behaviour spy-worthy at all.
Perhaps if I were those "be damned to the plot, just bring on steamy scenes" I could still tolerate this story. Because, yes, the sex was pretty graphic and more than enough here. But since I felt that the plot and characters were not appealing, much less believable, it was really hard for me to like this book.
ARC is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the exchange of a fair and honest review.
Turns out it was a mellower, sappy, very talkative, and not to mention whinier version of spy romance. At least to me.
Set in London, the story told of two characters who were respectively a field officer - Zach - and a black ops one - Fisher - of different divisions at CIA. Some orchestrated deceit got Fisher into the bad guys' hands and he was beyond furious to find who's in bed with the villains.
This was a very fast pace story that basically covered about 36 hours for majority of the pages. With the sixty percent of that majority portion containing one supposedly top notched CIA agent sulking and whining over being duped and lied to by another agent. While the other agent repeatedly "apologized and tried to reason". And I thought operatives or spies or whatever supposed to be hardened men that trained to deceive and expected the same from others.
That Fisher went around and around whined that Zach lied to him and hurled hurtful words before going back and pawing Zach then whining and yelling at him again and again was just exhausting. On top of that, the case and situation they were in were supposed to be life-and-dead critical. But within that time, these two agents managed to made scenes in front of their team mates (like bitching at each other during debriefing), wool gathering instead of paying attention to their mission, sneaking around and had sex at least a couple of times. Personally, I could not find their behaviour spy-worthy at all.
Perhaps if I were those "be damned to the plot, just bring on steamy scenes" I could still tolerate this story. Because, yes, the sex was pretty graphic and more than enough here. But since I felt that the plot and characters were not appealing, much less believable, it was really hard for me to like this book.
ARC is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the exchange of a fair and honest review.
June 22, 2016
3.5 Stars
That was fun!
Mr. and Mr. Smith was full of action and sex and laughs. What’s not to love about a team of hot, badass, undercover operatives?!
The action kicks off with a bang! Nathan and Fisher, best friends and partners, race off to rescue Fisher’s boyfriend--Zach. As the situation escalates into gunfire and torture, Fisher soon realizes his computer nerd boyfriend is not who he thought he was. But neither is Fisher. Covers and hearts are blown wide open from the word GO! Jump in and enjoy the ride!
The plot and action did get stuck in the liar, liar groove a bit too long for my tastes though. The “you-lied-to-me-more” drama got old fast. BUT there was plenty of hot sex mixed in to make up for it. :)
The whole team is introduced with humor and alpha swagger. I can’t wait for more. Nathan was my favorite! I hope we see more of him.
Recommended.
Btw….Fisher is right about the raisins. They do taste better after rolling around with the cereal. :D
August 11, 2018
~ 3.5 stars ~
I liked the first and the last part. The middle part was too drawn out for my liking. I liked the action, although it was a little OTT and not very believable, but this didn't bother me.
I didn't feel the romance, though. This book takes part over only 2 days and most of it is filled with gunfire, kidnapping, explosions, and strategy discussions. The MCs already knew each other before this story begins and we get some flashbacks to their time before but it wasn't enough for me to really connect with them.
All in all, it was entertaining and a promising start to a new series. I've started the second book today which continues the unresolved case. Book 1 doesn't really end with a cliffhanger but there are unanswered questions that, hopefully, will be addressed in the next book.
I liked the first and the last part. The middle part was too drawn out for my liking. I liked the action, although it was a little OTT and not very believable, but this didn't bother me.
I didn't feel the romance, though. This book takes part over only 2 days and most of it is filled with gunfire, kidnapping, explosions, and strategy discussions. The MCs already knew each other before this story begins and we get some flashbacks to their time before but it wasn't enough for me to really connect with them.
All in all, it was entertaining and a promising start to a new series. I've started the second book today which continues the unresolved case. Book 1 doesn't really end with a cliffhanger but there are unanswered questions that, hopefully, will be addressed in the next book.
February 1, 2017
3.5 stars
Good concept in theory but it didn't quite come together for me and I didn't feel the romance.
Good concept in theory but it didn't quite come together for me and I didn't feel the romance.
February 23, 2018
I enjoyed this action / spy thriller with 3.75 stars from me - there’s nothing like covert operations and torture to get the angst going. While I started to appreciate Fisher & Zach by the end their blow up after their cover was blown felt a little odd to me. I get Fishers feeling of betrayal but his back and forth vibe towards Zach was frustrating. I also found Nathan’s complete turn around to be too quick - one minute he wants to kill Zach, next he’s telling Fisher to marry Zach. I still enjoyed it - but it needed just a little tightening plot wise.
April 18, 2017
I love me some black ops.
I enjoyed this quite a bit. I didn't really see the same issues that some other reviewers mentioned. I didn't think the bickering really went on too long and Fischer's anger was appropriate. I appreciated that he did eventually put more thought into it and reviewed what Zach had said and done and realized what they had was real. His self analysis and views on love and relationships progressed well in the narrative. I liked Zach too, and I was empathetic with his dedication to his job and that he was torn between completing his undercover mission and protecting Fischer.
I did get a bit confused at times with the POV switches, not always able to figure out who was speaking because they weren't always clean transitions. The dialogue was occasionally rather sloppy feeling too, where it felt like conversations were incomplete and choppy. It wasn't enough to put me off though and I liked the action scenes. There really wasn't all that much sex in the story either, just a couple of encounters. It also covers only about two days, so I would have liked to see them together as themselves a little more. Still, it satisfied my appreciation of suspense novels and makes me want to continue with the series.
I enjoyed this quite a bit. I didn't really see the same issues that some other reviewers mentioned. I didn't think the bickering really went on too long and Fischer's anger was appropriate. I appreciated that he did eventually put more thought into it and reviewed what Zach had said and done and realized what they had was real. His self analysis and views on love and relationships progressed well in the narrative. I liked Zach too, and I was empathetic with his dedication to his job and that he was torn between completing his undercover mission and protecting Fischer.
I did get a bit confused at times with the POV switches, not always able to figure out who was speaking because they weren't always clean transitions. The dialogue was occasionally rather sloppy feeling too, where it felt like conversations were incomplete and choppy. It wasn't enough to put me off though and I liked the action scenes. There really wasn't all that much sex in the story either, just a couple of encounters. It also covers only about two days, so I would have liked to see them together as themselves a little more. Still, it satisfied my appreciation of suspense novels and makes me want to continue with the series.
March 27, 2017
First HelenKay read for me and in retrospect, I probably shouldn’t have had it lingered in my TBR all this time. This story line is the kind I gravitate towards in a movie; full of action and suspense. In a book, even better, because you can add some heat:p
Fisher and Zach are CIA agents playing from different sides. All these secrets and lies, oh my! Fisher was meant to be just a job for Zach, but you know how those things work out, they don’t. Feelings become involved. Feelings get hurt and turn distrustful. Then how do you fix that? While sticking to your mission, to boot!
I understood to a degree why Fisher felt the way he did. The back and forth emotion did tire me out a little at some point. I thought Zach made the better decision under the circumstances, and considering what was at stake at that! Overall though, I really enjoyed the dynamic between these 2… Natural conversations, a bit of levity, and the right chemistry…
The story itself moved at a good pace, like a good action film. It followed a nice arc.
Lastly, I have to give a shout out to Nate and Seth, and the extra humor they added, the kind that you see amongst good friends.
So yay!
Fisher and Zach are CIA agents playing from different sides. All these secrets and lies, oh my! Fisher was meant to be just a job for Zach, but you know how those things work out, they don’t. Feelings become involved. Feelings get hurt and turn distrustful. Then how do you fix that? While sticking to your mission, to boot!
I understood to a degree why Fisher felt the way he did. The back and forth emotion did tire me out a little at some point. I thought Zach made the better decision under the circumstances, and considering what was at stake at that! Overall though, I really enjoyed the dynamic between these 2… Natural conversations, a bit of levity, and the right chemistry…
The story itself moved at a good pace, like a good action film. It followed a nice arc.
Lastly, I have to give a shout out to Nate and Seth, and the extra humor they added, the kind that you see amongst good friends.
So yay!
December 9, 2016
2.5 (2.0) Stars
I almost DNF'ed this book but eventually managed to finish it and I'm happy I did. It wasn't a bad book per se but I had issues. First, the positives: I read it cover to cover and came to like the MCs at the (very) end. The bad: bad emo. This book was primed from the start for some serious angst. Personally, I like my stories with a nice dose angst; it puts the emo in me in emo heaven. However, this was bad emo. The I-hate-you-and-have-every-reason-to-hate-you-but-will-have-angry-sex-with-you-in-lieu-of-working-our-shit-out... again... and, again... and, again-trope got really, old really fast. Add to that a heaping helping of martyrdom and ... stick a fork in me, I'm done.
Bottom line: I wished I liked this more than I did but the bad emo sucked the joy out of this story for me.
I almost DNF'ed this book but eventually managed to finish it and I'm happy I did. It wasn't a bad book per se but I had issues. First, the positives: I read it cover to cover and came to like the MCs at the (very) end. The bad: bad emo. This book was primed from the start for some serious angst. Personally, I like my stories with a nice dose angst; it puts the emo in me in emo heaven. However, this was bad emo. The I-hate-you-and-have-every-reason-to-hate-you-but-will-have-angry-sex-with-you-in-lieu-of-working-our-shit-out... again... and, again... and, again-trope got really, old really fast. Add to that a heaping helping of martyrdom and ... stick a fork in me, I'm done.
Bottom line: I wished I liked this more than I did but the bad emo sucked the joy out of this story for me.
July 7, 2016
This started so engaging that I think it raised my expectations, because before reaching even the middle of it, things started getting pretty predictable and going downward, and later even more boring. I wished there remained a bit of the not-very-dramatic unexpectedness of the first part, it had really good potential! There was something in the book that made connecting to the plot and characters difficult!
August 4, 2016
3.5 stars
This book had some up and downs but overall not bad.
It was kinda weird because this is a established couple and I felt like I was being thrown in the middle of something.
We were told a little bit about their relationship but not much.
The beginning was intense, the las few chapters were intense and nice but the middle was a little slow.
I understood Both sides, both had good reasons to do the things they did and of course for being mad. I would have been more surprised if Fisher would have been like "it's fine" because it was more complicated than that.
I'm definitely curious about the next book, the teaser at the end about the next couple was so good.
This book had some up and downs but overall not bad.
It was kinda weird because this is a established couple and I felt like I was being thrown in the middle of something.
We were told a little bit about their relationship but not much.
The beginning was intense, the las few chapters were intense and nice but the middle was a little slow.
I understood Both sides, both had good reasons to do the things they did and of course for being mad. I would have been more surprised if Fisher would have been like "it's fine" because it was more complicated than that.
I'm definitely curious about the next book, the teaser at the end about the next couple was so good.
June 13, 2017
**Re-read refresher for the rest of the series and the new spin off.**
4 stars again!
I am so glad I took the time to re-read this! I honestly remembered less than I thought I would and the book felt really fresh to me.
I really enjoyed it. I like the setup for the series. I already have a feeling I am going to enjoy more missions with the team.
I feel like this was a good and balanced Romantic Suspense and I'm jumping right into book 2.
4 stars again!
I am so glad I took the time to re-read this! I honestly remembered less than I thought I would and the book felt really fresh to me.
I really enjoyed it. I like the setup for the series. I already have a feeling I am going to enjoy more missions with the team.
I feel like this was a good and balanced Romantic Suspense and I'm jumping right into book 2.
September 29, 2019
3.5 stars
May 25, 2016
Ta-ra-ra-ra-ra-ra-ra ra ta-dam!!!!
I’m officially a member of the M/M Readers & Reviewers club!!! YAY!! Finally, after months of planning, I got to read my first M/M romance novel. And I couldn’t be more glad that this book set the starting point and put it on the road towards becoming one of my fav genres. So, thank you Mr. and Mr. Smith for that!
Two CIA agents; Fisher and Zach. Both involved in the same case. Both trying to protect each other from the consequences of this involvement of theirs. Both hide their true identity from the other behind a disguise. But only one of them holds a secret which is about to destroy the world as they thought they knew it so far. A secret which will be both their worst nightmare but also their salvation.
Both Fisher and Zach are two very headstrong and determined males. When they get something in their mind, they do everything to make it happen. Especially if that something is concerning the person they love; their someone . But when the bomb about the secret Zach has explodes, Fisher loses the earth under his feet. He finds himself in a space where he doesn’t know what is true or a lie, who should trust or not and how to deal with the pain the revelation of Zach’s secret causes him. And each may have his own way of facing this situation and each other, but the result of those is an undeniable amount of strength and love which makes their bond even stronger and had me stuck on my screen.
Also, the way I see it now that I have finished the book, is this: like those cases where the doctor says that, in order for the patient to get back to his/ers old shelf, s/he has to go through a great shock so his/ers brain rewind itself and function as before, so Zach and Fisher needed a great shock so they could see the real foundations of their relationship and that they were going deeper than they thought or set themselves to believe. And I may have came across the same situation hundreds of times in most of the F/M couples I have read, although, reading it in an M/M couple, it took a different substance for me. Became more special and more captivating.
HelenKay Dimon’s writing and way of unfolding the story had me a bit confused and a bit disappointed. Her choice of writing the book using double POVs which were said through a third person’s POV, underestimated not only the plot a lot, but also the characters and their connection. It kind of pushed the story into a corner and almost stripped it bare from any emotional attachment I could develop while reading it. I wasn’t able to feel their love deep in my bones and that really saddened me because this is a book whose emotions any reader must feel as their own. Besides that, I really enjoyed this book and I will always cherish it as my first M/M book I read. I am extremely curious now to read other books by Dimon because, from what I have blurb-read, her stories are based upon very interesting themes.
Link: http://collectorofbookboyfriends.com/...
April 16, 2016
When Fisher Braun returns home after a mission to discover his home burgled, and his boyfriend taken; he is devastated!
Apparently not as devastated as when he finds out that boyfriend that he has been lying to, has been lying to him as well.
Just what is it that these two lovebirds have been lying about...you ask?
Try everything!
So imagine Fisher's surprise when he is taken. Only to find himself being tortured at the hands of the man he loves.
Yes, it seems that Zachary Allen has more than a few secrets. The biggest of which being that he was sent by the CIA to get close to Fisher. Fisher, the self same Fisher Braun, working undercover for the British division of the same CIA! The thing is...they never specified just how close.
Now these two lovers must find away to get past the personal betrayal, and get down to the very impersonal business of making their case a mission accomplished.
This story starts out very strong. The opening action, the suspense, and the utter shock of it all is enough to hook the reader without fail. Unfortunately, the story starts to fall apart soon after its wonderful start.
The story killer?
None other than Fisher himself.
Or Fisher's feelings, to be more precise!
It appears that it is fine for Fisher to lie about his life and his job. But the fact that his lover is guilty of the same crime, for the same reason...is utterly unacceptable!
Huh?
This poor book goes on for pages with Fisher not being able to get over the fact that Zachery lied to him.
Yes, he also risked his own life to save yours!
But...He lied!
Yes, you told the exact same lies.
But...He lied!
Yes, either of you could be killed at any moment.
But...He lied!
Let's have lots of hot sex
Even though...He lied!
Whine, whine, and whine some more! With breaks for hot sex!
It seems that this story is trying to be one of those romances where there is just enough action, suspense, or whatever the subplot happens to be to justify the romance as a focus.
Sadly, there is nowhere near the amount of story or character development necessary for that to happen here.
Equally as disappointing, is the rushed ending.
Great sex does not a great story make!
Apparently not as devastated as when he finds out that boyfriend that he has been lying to, has been lying to him as well.
Just what is it that these two lovebirds have been lying about...you ask?
Try everything!
So imagine Fisher's surprise when he is taken. Only to find himself being tortured at the hands of the man he loves.
Yes, it seems that Zachary Allen has more than a few secrets. The biggest of which being that he was sent by the CIA to get close to Fisher. Fisher, the self same Fisher Braun, working undercover for the British division of the same CIA! The thing is...they never specified just how close.
Now these two lovers must find away to get past the personal betrayal, and get down to the very impersonal business of making their case a mission accomplished.
This story starts out very strong. The opening action, the suspense, and the utter shock of it all is enough to hook the reader without fail. Unfortunately, the story starts to fall apart soon after its wonderful start.
The story killer?
None other than Fisher himself.
Or Fisher's feelings, to be more precise!
It appears that it is fine for Fisher to lie about his life and his job. But the fact that his lover is guilty of the same crime, for the same reason...is utterly unacceptable!
Huh?
This poor book goes on for pages with Fisher not being able to get over the fact that Zachery lied to him.
Yes, he also risked his own life to save yours!
But...He lied!
Yes, you told the exact same lies.
But...He lied!
Yes, either of you could be killed at any moment.
But...He lied!
Let's have lots of hot sex
Even though...He lied!
Whine, whine, and whine some more! With breaks for hot sex!
It seems that this story is trying to be one of those romances where there is just enough action, suspense, or whatever the subplot happens to be to justify the romance as a focus.
Sadly, there is nowhere near the amount of story or character development necessary for that to happen here.
Equally as disappointing, is the rushed ending.
Great sex does not a great story make!
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