What do you think?
Rate this book
Bounty Hunters #1
Promises Part 1
Duke Morgan owns and operates one of the largest bail bond companies in Atlanta. Not only does he bond criminals out of jail, he and his notorious group of bounty hunters will also track them down and ensure they show up for court.
Roman ‘Quick’ Webb is Duke’s business partner and best friend. Both men are in their forties and have given up on the happily ever after with the ranch-style home, and white picket fence. They’d both tried it and failed miserably. But they have their friendship and they have the business.
When Quick’s son, Vaughan Webb returns – after seven years - from studying abroad with his law degree in hand, he’s back to claim what he’s always wanted…his fathers’ best friend… Duke Morgan. Vaughan has always claimed to be a classic gentleman with an old soul. He didn’t party and screw up in school like his buddies. He was focused and dedicated to becoming the man worthy of Duke’s love.
It’s a complex and messy situation as Duke and Quick figure out how to still be best friends when one of them is sleeping with his friend’s one and only son. But when Duke is hurt on the job, all the unimportant trivialities fall to the wayside and Vaughan and Quick put their heads together to save Duke.
Part I of the Promises story is about Duke and Vaughan and DOES NOT end on a cliffhanger. Part II is about Quick and Dr. Chauncey and their realization that it’s not too late for any of them to find love.
Roman ‘Quick’ Webb is Duke’s business partner and best friend. Both men are in their forties and have given up on the happily ever after with the ranch-style home, and white picket fence. They’d both tried it and failed miserably. But they have their friendship and they have the business.
When Quick’s son, Vaughan Webb returns – after seven years - from studying abroad with his law degree in hand, he’s back to claim what he’s always wanted…his fathers’ best friend… Duke Morgan. Vaughan has always claimed to be a classic gentleman with an old soul. He didn’t party and screw up in school like his buddies. He was focused and dedicated to becoming the man worthy of Duke’s love.
It’s a complex and messy situation as Duke and Quick figure out how to still be best friends when one of them is sleeping with his friend’s one and only son. But when Duke is hurt on the job, all the unimportant trivialities fall to the wayside and Vaughan and Quick put their heads together to save Duke.
Part I of the Promises story is about Duke and Vaughan and DOES NOT end on a cliffhanger. Part II is about Quick and Dr. Chauncey and their realization that it’s not too late for any of them to find love.
260 pages, ebook
First published October 14, 2015
342 people are currently reading
1319 people want to read
About the author
A.E. Via
40 books3,200 followersA.E. Via is an author in the beautiful gay romance genre and also founder and owner of Via Star Wings Books. Her writing embodies everything from hopelessly romantic to spicy to scandalous. Her stories often include intriguing edges and twists that take readers to new, thought-provoking depths.
When she's not clicking away at her laptop, she devotes herself to her family--a husband and four children.
Adrienne Via has tons of more stories to tell, but she really would like to hear yours. Via Star Wings Books is currently accepting submissions for established and aspiring LGBTQ authors. I've contracted and successfully published a couple authors - whose information can be found on my website - who can tell you that my passion is giving other writer's stories the love and care it deserves so it could be a gift to another. Visit my site to learn more!
Go to A.E. Via's official website http://authoraevia.com for more detailed information on how to contact her, follow her, or a sneak peak on upcoming work, free reads, VSWB submissions, and where she'll appear next.
When she's not clicking away at her laptop, she devotes herself to her family--a husband and four children.
Adrienne Via has tons of more stories to tell, but she really would like to hear yours. Via Star Wings Books is currently accepting submissions for established and aspiring LGBTQ authors. I've contracted and successfully published a couple authors - whose information can be found on my website - who can tell you that my passion is giving other writer's stories the love and care it deserves so it could be a gift to another. Visit my site to learn more!
Go to A.E. Via's official website http://authoraevia.com for more detailed information on how to contact her, follow her, or a sneak peak on upcoming work, free reads, VSWB submissions, and where she'll appear next.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 429 reviews
February 26, 2019
re-read 2/25/19 and still loved it !!!
I first read this book in 2017 and I have re-read it a couple of times since then. I've come to love A.E. Via's books.
So far they haven't disappointed me, and I always feel truly entertained. Sure more often than not they are a bit OTT, but I kinda like it that way!
This book felt a bit different from all the others though, it was way more emotional and the steam (although very nice) didn't come until after 60 %. There was a reason for that though.
If you've read "Don't Judge", you know all about Duke. Duke was Judge's fuckbuddy and boss, until Judge decided he was in love with someone else and left Duke high and dry. They still work together as bounty hunters and PI's, but there is nothing sexual about it their relationship anymore.
I was a bit pissed with the way Judge treated Duke in the previous book, but then again Judge was an ass to everybody... for most of the book anyway. You don't have to read the other books to follow this one, but I think it will make it more enjoyable if you do.
So Duke has a bountyhunter and PI bussiness with his best friend Quick. He's feeling a bit lonely lately and is wondering if he will ever have a chance at love, now that Judge has left him the way he did. Duke is quite the romantic at heart...
Well....Duke is in for a treat, because Vaughan, Quick's son, is coming back home and he is ready to claim the man he has always been in love with ! Yes...you guessed it...that would be Duke !!
Quick knows that his son has always had a crush on Duke and Vaughan has always been honest to him about his feelings, so he's 100 % supportive of his son. I was so pleased with that !! Quick was an awesome dad and best friend.
At first Duke can't believe that young and very attractive and successful Vaughan, would want to be with him, but he finally accepts that maybe his chance for happiness and love has arrived. Yes there is an age difference, because Duke is almost 45 and Vaughan is 31, but who cares...this might be true love.
They decide to start with a date...both men are very excited. Untill tragedy strikes....and damn did it strike. It was heartbreaking, but it was beautiful to see how deep Vaughan's feelings ran.
I'm not gonna say much more than this, because I don't want to spoil anything. I seriously loved Vaughan and I loved the way he loved Duke...He was an outstanding man, just like his dad!!
Like I said before, it does take a bit longer than I'm used to by A.E. Via, for the steam to arrive. But once it does...hell yeah !!! These two are smoking together. What I liked about the steam in this book, is that even though it was hot as hell, it was still very emotional and sweet.
We also get a bit of a sideline story for the next book and I've got to tell you, I can't wait !! I loved doctor Cayson and I felt so bad for him, I actually cried (which doesn't happen a lot).
I first read this book in 2017 and I have re-read it a couple of times since then. I've come to love A.E. Via's books.
So far they haven't disappointed me, and I always feel truly entertained. Sure more often than not they are a bit OTT, but I kinda like it that way!
This book felt a bit different from all the others though, it was way more emotional and the steam (although very nice) didn't come until after 60 %. There was a reason for that though.
If you've read "Don't Judge", you know all about Duke. Duke was Judge's fuckbuddy and boss, until Judge decided he was in love with someone else and left Duke high and dry. They still work together as bounty hunters and PI's, but there is nothing sexual about it their relationship anymore.
I was a bit pissed with the way Judge treated Duke in the previous book, but then again Judge was an ass to everybody... for most of the book anyway. You don't have to read the other books to follow this one, but I think it will make it more enjoyable if you do.
So Duke has a bountyhunter and PI bussiness with his best friend Quick. He's feeling a bit lonely lately and is wondering if he will ever have a chance at love, now that Judge has left him the way he did. Duke is quite the romantic at heart...
Well....Duke is in for a treat, because Vaughan, Quick's son, is coming back home and he is ready to claim the man he has always been in love with ! Yes...you guessed it...that would be Duke !!
Quick knows that his son has always had a crush on Duke and Vaughan has always been honest to him about his feelings, so he's 100 % supportive of his son. I was so pleased with that !! Quick was an awesome dad and best friend.
At first Duke can't believe that young and very attractive and successful Vaughan, would want to be with him, but he finally accepts that maybe his chance for happiness and love has arrived. Yes there is an age difference, because Duke is almost 45 and Vaughan is 31, but who cares...this might be true love.
They decide to start with a date...both men are very excited. Untill tragedy strikes....and damn did it strike. It was heartbreaking, but it was beautiful to see how deep Vaughan's feelings ran.
I'm not gonna say much more than this, because I don't want to spoil anything. I seriously loved Vaughan and I loved the way he loved Duke...He was an outstanding man, just like his dad!!
Like I said before, it does take a bit longer than I'm used to by A.E. Via, for the steam to arrive. But once it does...hell yeah !!! These two are smoking together. What I liked about the steam in this book, is that even though it was hot as hell, it was still very emotional and sweet.
We also get a bit of a sideline story for the next book and I've got to tell you, I can't wait !! I loved doctor Cayson and I felt so bad for him, I actually cried (which doesn't happen a lot).
I highly recommend this series !!
My reviews are posted on
i-m-a-quitter
October 28, 2015DNF @ 59%
January 19, 2018
2.5*
I feel like I was reading a completely different book then everyone else. Because while everyone has loved it, I didn't much care for it at all.
I know! I love this authors Nothing Special series and have enjoyed a few of her other books, but this one was a complete struggle for me to get through. The book seemed to be a bit of a mess. There were quite a bit of typos. I was surprised by that because usually this authors books are never in need of any editing, but this one for sure needs to be gone over again. One or two mistakes are easy to look over, but when you start getting the names wrong, that is when I get annoyed.
Then after what happens with Duke I thought it might pick up.
Nope. Not the case here. For me it just got worse. Ugh! Hate saying that, but gotta be honest right?
It felt like things took forever to get to where they were going and I just wanted it to be over.
I don't know what exactly annoyed me the most about this couple but I do know that the cheese was strong in this one.
Oh, yes! I rolled my eyes so many times! It just got to be so damn corny.
It was that bad. But although I didn't enjoy this one I am intrigued by Quick and the Dr. So maybe the next one will be better for me.
That's all!
I feel like I was reading a completely different book then everyone else. Because while everyone has loved it, I didn't much care for it at all.
I know! I love this authors Nothing Special series and have enjoyed a few of her other books, but this one was a complete struggle for me to get through. The book seemed to be a bit of a mess. There were quite a bit of typos. I was surprised by that because usually this authors books are never in need of any editing, but this one for sure needs to be gone over again. One or two mistakes are easy to look over, but when you start getting the names wrong, that is when I get annoyed.
Then after what happens with Duke I thought it might pick up.
Nope. Not the case here. For me it just got worse. Ugh! Hate saying that, but gotta be honest right?
It felt like things took forever to get to where they were going and I just wanted it to be over.
I don't know what exactly annoyed me the most about this couple but I do know that the cheese was strong in this one.
Oh, yes! I rolled my eyes so many times! It just got to be so damn corny.
It was that bad. But although I didn't enjoy this one I am intrigued by Quick and the Dr. So maybe the next one will be better for me.
That's all!
January 25, 2018
Reread January 2018
I decided to do a reread so I can read part 3 that I still haven't read. For some strange reason Vaughan didn't come across as femme this time to me...go figure. But, Duke annoyed me more with his constant thoughts about FUCKING JUDGE and comparing him to Vaughan etc.
And speaking of FUCKING JUDGE...I still hate him and I just don't think I could ever read his book. It pisses me off that he continues to treat Duke as if he still has rights to him. He needs to be gone.
Originally read May 2017
I was pleasantly surprised with this one. A few of my friends didn't particularly care for it for one reason or another. And while it wasn't a perfect read for me, I enjoyed it.
I really loved Duke. My heart broke for him. He just wanted to settle down with someone and be loved. After his heart was broke byAsshole Judge, he thought he'd never have what he wanted. Of course he had no idea Vaughan was just patiently waiting and becoming the man Duke needed and deserved. And after what happened to him later, break my heart why don't ya, he so deserved a good man and a HEA.
Things I loved:
✔️Quick, Vaughan's dad and Duke's best friend, wasn't an issue. He accepted their relationship.
✔️Vaughan knew he wanted Duke and was determined to have him.
✔️Duke didn't fight being with Vaughan because he was younger.
✔️Vaughan's act of selflessness. <---The cause of big fat tears.
Things I didn't like:
➖Vaughan was supposed to be this big muscular dominant guy. He came across way too femme for me. I love femme men in mm stories when they're written to be that way. But when they're supposed to be dominant I want them to act that way in and out of the bedroom. He really wasn't even dominant in the bedroom IMO.
➖Asshole Judge. I don't think I can read his book. I did not like him. I didn't like the way he treated Duke nor the way he just pushed Vaughan aside like he had some right to Duke that Vaughan didn't have. Dude..you have a man of your own you left Duke for. Go away! I just did not like his character at all.
➖Wow...typos and wrong names...ouch.
So while it wasn't perfect I did enjoy it. Oh boy...and Quick...dude you need to do some serious groveling to Cayson. On to book two...
I decided to do a reread so I can read part 3 that I still haven't read. For some strange reason Vaughan didn't come across as femme this time to me...go figure. But, Duke annoyed me more with his constant thoughts about FUCKING JUDGE and comparing him to Vaughan etc.
And speaking of FUCKING JUDGE...I still hate him and I just don't think I could ever read his book. It pisses me off that he continues to treat Duke as if he still has rights to him. He needs to be gone.
Originally read May 2017
I was pleasantly surprised with this one. A few of my friends didn't particularly care for it for one reason or another. And while it wasn't a perfect read for me, I enjoyed it.
I really loved Duke. My heart broke for him. He just wanted to settle down with someone and be loved. After his heart was broke by
Things I loved:
✔️Quick, Vaughan's dad and Duke's best friend, wasn't an issue. He accepted their relationship.
✔️Vaughan knew he wanted Duke and was determined to have him.
✔️Duke didn't fight being with Vaughan because he was younger.
✔️Vaughan's act of selflessness. <---The cause of big fat tears.
Things I didn't like:
➖Vaughan was supposed to be this big muscular dominant guy. He came across way too femme for me. I love femme men in mm stories when they're written to be that way. But when they're supposed to be dominant I want them to act that way in and out of the bedroom. He really wasn't even dominant in the bedroom IMO.
➖
➖Wow...typos and wrong names...ouch.
So while it wasn't perfect I did enjoy it. Oh boy...and Quick...dude you need to do some serious groveling to Cayson. On to book two...
March 26, 2023
*3.5* Nothing says true love like…
Well, I can’t actually tell you because it would ruin the entire book.
We first met Duke in book four of the Nothing Special series. He was in a hook-up relationship with fellow bounty hunter, Judge. (Who broke his heart) Duke is a big guy, but craves to be dominated.
Vaughan has had a crush on Duke (his dad’s best friend and work partner) since he was a teenager. Early on, he confides in his dad saying that one day, he’s going sweep Duke off his feet. Fast forward, Duke is now 45 and Vaughan 31.
I do wish this couple had less of an instant relationship, but considering they’ve known each other off and on over 15 years, it somewhat works. They meet again at the perfect point in their lives, and begin to date.
What I liked:
No stereotypical roles here. Duke might be a bounty hunter and a big man, but all he wants is a partner to take care of him.
Unlike the Nothing Special series, this book focuses more on emotions, rather than lots of sex. Don’t get me wrong, the last quarter of this book was filled with excellent scenes!
These two men have no problem being vulnerable in front of the other. It was quite refreshing.
Vaughan’s ultimate gift of love is beautiful.
What didn’t quite work:
Quick’s (Vaughan’s dad) acceptance of this relationship.
Vaughan’s rearranging his entire life for one man, years before he even knew if he would be interested in him.
This story feels almost historical romance-like, in terms of the swoony factor.
Favorite part of this audiobook was voice actor Adien Snow.
Well, I can’t actually tell you because it would ruin the entire book.
We first met Duke in book four of the Nothing Special series. He was in a hook-up relationship with fellow bounty hunter, Judge. (Who broke his heart) Duke is a big guy, but craves to be dominated.
Vaughan has had a crush on Duke (his dad’s best friend and work partner) since he was a teenager. Early on, he confides in his dad saying that one day, he’s going sweep Duke off his feet. Fast forward, Duke is now 45 and Vaughan 31.
I do wish this couple had less of an instant relationship, but considering they’ve known each other off and on over 15 years, it somewhat works. They meet again at the perfect point in their lives, and begin to date.
What I liked:
No stereotypical roles here. Duke might be a bounty hunter and a big man, but all he wants is a partner to take care of him.
Unlike the Nothing Special series, this book focuses more on emotions, rather than lots of sex. Don’t get me wrong, the last quarter of this book was filled with excellent scenes!
These two men have no problem being vulnerable in front of the other. It was quite refreshing.
Vaughan’s ultimate gift of love is beautiful.
What didn’t quite work:
Quick’s (Vaughan’s dad) acceptance of this relationship.
Vaughan’s rearranging his entire life for one man, years before he even knew if he would be interested in him.
This story feels almost historical romance-like, in terms of the swoony factor.
Favorite part of this audiobook was voice actor Adien Snow.
September 25, 2017
3.5*
This book along with many others has been on my to-read list for ages and it's the first book I've read from this author.
I'm not sure what I expected but I didn't expect it to be so sweet but it is, cute and sweet.
After his lover Judge has moved on Duke finds himself alone and lonely but this doesn't last long since his friend and partner Quick's son Vaughan is back and determined to have Duke.
Vaughan has been crushing on Duke for the last fifteen years but now he's a man and determined to get his man.
I enjoyed this book and it's straight onto part 2 for me next but it took a little getting used to.
Duke is forty-five years old and a bounty hunter, Vaughan is thirty-one a lawyer and always perfectly dressed from head to toe in designer suits.
Now don't get me wrong I loved both these guys but at times I struggled to get my head round the fact that Vaughan was the driving force, the top in this relationship and Duke was the passenger.
But I like sweet and therefore I enjoyed this.
May 22, 2020
*** 2.75 stars ***
This was a bit too sweet for the likes of me. The insta love was cringy bad, from both parts but especially from Duke's side. 😖
I could get Vaughan's infatuation since he was 16, but Duke never gave Vaughan a second look.
Vaughan goes abroad for a few years and when he comes back, Duke hears Vaugham's deep voice in a phone call and falls head over heels for Vaughan.
Ok, it was not that bad
but wasn't too far from it either.
Duke was too needy and that didn't sit well with me. It was almost as if anyone who gave him some attention would suffice.
What kept me going was not the romance per si.
Roman (aka Quick), Dr Chauncey, Charlie, the hunt that went so wrong, all these things were what kept me going.
Available on KU ATM.
This was a bit too sweet for the likes of me. The insta love was cringy bad, from both parts but especially from Duke's side. 😖
I could get Vaughan's infatuation since he was 16, but Duke never gave Vaughan a second look.
Vaughan goes abroad for a few years and when he comes back, Duke hears Vaugham's deep voice in a phone call and falls head over heels for Vaughan.
Ok, it was not that bad
but wasn't too far from it either.
Duke was too needy and that didn't sit well with me. It was almost as if anyone who gave him some attention would suffice.
What kept me going was not the romance per si.
Roman (aka Quick), Dr Chauncey, Charlie, the hunt that went so wrong, all these things were what kept me going.
Available on KU ATM.
January 2, 2016
So I'm not going to lie to you...I was hesitant to grab this up because I see "Part I" and I immediately think "Cliffhanger". But after being assured this was a story with its own beginning, middle and end, and ABSOLUTELY NO CLIFFHANGER...well, I dove right in. Let me tell you, this is going on my M/M favorites shelf and it's in my top three A.E. Via books ever written. I don't think fans of A.E. will be disappointed with either this story or the arc of where this is going.
Forty-five year old Duke Morgan, who we met in Don't Judge, is lonely. Ever since his occasional fuck buddy, Judge Josephson, went and fell in love with Atlanta Detective Austin Michaels (something Duke was hoping Judge would do with him) he's been trying to get around the melancholy he's been feeling. While his business is doing really well, bail bonds and fugitive hunting never really wanes, his personal life is a big zero.
When Duke's right hand man, Forty-nine year old Quick tells him his thirty-one year old son, Vaughan, is moving back to town to take a D.A. position Duke is happy for Quick to be able to spend more time with his son. However, Vaughan has a double motive to coming to town - not only to spend time with his dad, but also to finally claim his man.
Vaughan has been in love with Duke since he was sixteen. He knew Duke would never even look at him as anything but a kid, so he's bided his time, grown up, gotten his degrees, traveled the world and made himself into the man who will seal the deal and steal Duke's heart forever. With his father firmly in the know about all of his plans and accepting (if not exactly happy about it) Vaughan has every intention of scooping up the man Judge was stupid enough to let go.
Just after Vaughan makes his intentions known, and while Duke is still processing why this gorgeous, brilliant younger man would want an older guy like him, tragedy strikes. I'm big enough to admit I cried like a little kid. I may have cursed A.E. a little for tripping my heart up. Okay, a lot. I was all, "Why?!"
But buck up, buckaroos, because she makes it all better.
I absolutely loved how committed Vaughan was to making Duke understand just how much he loves, and has always loved, him. The romance is strong with this story. Make no mistake...this is a sweep-you-off-your-feet ROMANCE and I loved every single minute of it!
Highly Recommended!
Review Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Forty-five year old Duke Morgan, who we met in Don't Judge, is lonely. Ever since his occasional fuck buddy, Judge Josephson, went and fell in love with Atlanta Detective Austin Michaels (something Duke was hoping Judge would do with him) he's been trying to get around the melancholy he's been feeling. While his business is doing really well, bail bonds and fugitive hunting never really wanes, his personal life is a big zero.
When Duke's right hand man, Forty-nine year old Quick tells him his thirty-one year old son, Vaughan, is moving back to town to take a D.A. position Duke is happy for Quick to be able to spend more time with his son. However, Vaughan has a double motive to coming to town - not only to spend time with his dad, but also to finally claim his man.
Vaughan has been in love with Duke since he was sixteen. He knew Duke would never even look at him as anything but a kid, so he's bided his time, grown up, gotten his degrees, traveled the world and made himself into the man who will seal the deal and steal Duke's heart forever. With his father firmly in the know about all of his plans and accepting (if not exactly happy about it) Vaughan has every intention of scooping up the man Judge was stupid enough to let go.
Just after Vaughan makes his intentions known, and while Duke is still processing why this gorgeous, brilliant younger man would want an older guy like him, tragedy strikes. I'm big enough to admit I cried like a little kid. I may have cursed A.E. a little for tripping my heart up. Okay, a lot. I was all, "Why?!"
But buck up, buckaroos, because she makes it all better.
I absolutely loved how committed Vaughan was to making Duke understand just how much he loves, and has always loved, him. The romance is strong with this story. Make no mistake...this is a sweep-you-off-your-feet ROMANCE and I loved every single minute of it!
Highly Recommended!
Review Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
October 23, 2016
After reading Defined by Deceit, I was so sure A.E Via was going to be a favorite author. This book has me re-thinking that. This book delivered nothing but sap and cheez. Time and money not well spent at all.
October 25, 2015
I'm going to be the minority on this one.
This author comes with a large following and I was excited to dive into one of her stories. It started off great, but little by little it lost me. When I read this sentence:
"When Quick’s son, Vaughan Webb returns – after seven years - from studying abroad with his law degree in hand, he’s back to claim what he’s always wanted…his fathers’ best friend… Duke Morgan."
I thought we were in for a chase, but there was really not one here. The insta-love happened too fast from Duke's end. I was disappointed by that. Then some events take place and I thought: I'll roll with the direction the story is taking... But the plot and dialogue were too OTT for me. It felt like I was reading one of the Spanish telenovelas I grew up watching in Colombia. I didn't much care for those.
For the positives- cause it wasn't all negative. I agree with everyone that it was sweet and sexy. I thought Duke and Vaughan had great chemistry. It had a great cast of secondary characters.
As I mentioned, I am clearly the minority- this one goes under "everybody loves me". I'm sad it didn't work for me as I was looking forward to this one. 2.5 Stars.
This author comes with a large following and I was excited to dive into one of her stories. It started off great, but little by little it lost me. When I read this sentence:
"When Quick’s son, Vaughan Webb returns – after seven years - from studying abroad with his law degree in hand, he’s back to claim what he’s always wanted…his fathers’ best friend… Duke Morgan."
I thought we were in for a chase, but there was really not one here. The insta-love happened too fast from Duke's end. I was disappointed by that. Then some events take place and I thought: I'll roll with the direction the story is taking... But the plot and dialogue were too OTT for me. It felt like I was reading one of the Spanish telenovelas I grew up watching in Colombia. I didn't much care for those.
For the positives- cause it wasn't all negative. I agree with everyone that it was sweet and sexy. I thought Duke and Vaughan had great chemistry. It had a great cast of secondary characters.
As I mentioned, I am clearly the minority- this one goes under "everybody loves me". I'm sad it didn't work for me as I was looking forward to this one. 2.5 Stars.
May 27, 2017
3.5-4stars. I absolutely adored Duke. This guy was a badass but also not afraid to show his feelings. He really just wanted someone to truly love him and to show it to the world. He got that with Vaughn. The thing that made this not be a 5 star read was Vaughn. He was very good to Duke and I didn't doubt his love but he was written a bit femme which didn't fit in with who his character was supposed to be imo. He's supposed to be all dominant yet he was almost written like a female. This is my first read by this author and I'm jumping right into book 2. Also I haven't read Judge's story but I can say there were multiple times in this one that I wanted to junk punch him so I'm not sure I want to read it.
July 30, 2017
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Might contain spoilers*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
Duke Morgan (45) owner and operator of one of the largest bail bond companies in Atlanta has given up on love. He used to ‘date’ (more like sleeping together) Judge (is that his name), but Judge left him for another man. A younger man. Duke's best friend and business partner, Roman ‘Quick’ Webb (49?)'s son is returning after 7 years of educating/studying to be a lawyer. A son which has huge feelings for Duke, which Quick supports. Huge feelings he has had since he was sixteen. Vaughan David Webb (31) waited years for Duke to see him as a man and not a kid. Now that he's grown, both body and mind, he's ready to win Duke's heart and get his forever. But then something horrible happens that might ends that forever happy ending he - and Duke - has been waiting for.
“You have become a damn good man. Strong and confident.”
“Like you,” Vaughan interjected. “Just like I was raised to be.”
Overall the book was weird. At first it was interesting enough (not much, but enough to keep my attention) and then things just...went too fast forward. Like, Vaughan shows up, says he wants Duke and Duke just follows along. Like he's been in love with Vaughan all along. So there's fucking insta-love. ‘Head over heels’ after a few days and no weirdness over the fact that it is his best friend's son. I just didn't feel that. Then that accident happened, Vaughan steps in to save the day - without Duke knowing - and everything is good and happy. Didn't feel that either.
“I can’t fuckin’ wait,” Duke murmured.
“You can and you will,” Vaughan scolded, asserting his dominance, and Duke wanted to moan his submission.
Yes, I will wait. Because you told me to.
Together, Duke and Vaughan was a bit odd. Vaughan is over ten years younger than Duke, but he's also the dominant in the relationship. Duke's a softy, a blushing man and just wants to be taken care off for once, to be appreciated (though it was weird that they called Duke a alpha, when, for me, he was faaar from it). And all Vaughan want to do is take care of Duke and love him like he deserves. And though it was cute and nice of Quick to support his son and best friend's relationship, it was also weird. So it's safe to say that this book was not for me.
“He’s fine. Why?”
“Um. Nothing. Nothing at all. He just seems different now.”
Vaughan really started gesturing. “Tell him I’m more mature,” he whispered harshly.
His dad covered the speaker. “I’m not about to pimp you, Vaughan.”
“Dad. Come on,” he begged.
Vaughan watched his dad slap his hand to his forehead, groaning in irritation.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (A) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series (Standalone?), Book One
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Vaughan David Webb.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 1.5/2 stars.
June 5, 2020
I love many of Via's books but the Promises series is probubly my favorite. If you read my San Andreas books but you want even more nookie? Try these. Via writes high heat. But oh so sexy.
January 8, 2017
3.5 stars for this one. I enjoyed Duke & Vaughan's but it didn't quite hit the high paced vibe I get from AE Via. The chemistry was just a little off and maybe this spin off series hasn't quite hit the same mark and the awesome Nothing Special series. Hopefully book 2 brings me back to my happy place !
October 21, 2015
Hopefully this review goes through, GR is being a little bitch today.
I think this book had a lot of potential. I liked both Duke and Vaughan, but I felt that Duke fell for Vaughan WAY too fast. They have known each other since Vaughan was a kid, and Vaughan has been in love with Duke just about as long. There is more than a ten year age difference, and because of this, and the fact that Vaughan is the son of Duke's best friend, Duke never looked at Vaughan that way, until Vaughan came home from several years away, traveling and going to law school. Vaughan immediately starts his pursuit of Duke, but he didn't have to try too hard, Duke gets in deep fairly fast.
I really wish that they had had more time to be together and get to know each other in a romantic way, before Duke got hurt. Things seemed fairly unbalanced, because that happened fairly early on in the story, leaving the rest of the focus on Duke's injuries and saving his life, and not enough on the guys being together. The first sex scene doesn't even happen until 80% in, which is almost unheard of from books I've read from this author.
There were also the standard editing errors that you find in this author's books, things like a character "pinning" for someone, "the justice and the peace", and once a character's name was mixed up with another character- Doctor Cayson(is that really even a name?) suddenly becomes Duke for a sentence. I'd love to offer my beta reading skills to this author, not for big stories, but just to fix these little things.
I think this book had a lot of potential. I liked both Duke and Vaughan, but I felt that Duke fell for Vaughan WAY too fast. They have known each other since Vaughan was a kid, and Vaughan has been in love with Duke just about as long. There is more than a ten year age difference, and because of this, and the fact that Vaughan is the son of Duke's best friend, Duke never looked at Vaughan that way, until Vaughan came home from several years away, traveling and going to law school. Vaughan immediately starts his pursuit of Duke, but he didn't have to try too hard, Duke gets in deep fairly fast.
I really wish that they had had more time to be together and get to know each other in a romantic way, before Duke got hurt. Things seemed fairly unbalanced, because that happened fairly early on in the story, leaving the rest of the focus on Duke's injuries and saving his life, and not enough on the guys being together. The first sex scene doesn't even happen until 80% in, which is almost unheard of from books I've read from this author.
There were also the standard editing errors that you find in this author's books, things like a character "pinning" for someone, "the justice and the peace", and once a character's name was mixed up with another character- Doctor Cayson(is that really even a name?) suddenly becomes Duke for a sentence. I'd love to offer my beta reading skills to this author, not for big stories, but just to fix these little things.
October 28, 2015
BR with Els
From the dedication:
Duke holds a very special place in my heart so I had to put him with a man that wasn’t as hardcore and rough as what Duke was used to being around. Welcome…Vaughan Webb, Esquire. But because of their age difference and of course, Vaughan being Duke’s best friend’s son, I had to develop a situation that would make Vaughan undeniably the best thing to happen to Duke. I hope you enjoy their story.
I loved this. Duke is a 45 year old bounty hunter, but despite his rough exterior he doesn’t always want to be the alpha man. That’s why Vaughan was so perfect for him. 14 years his junior and his best friend’s so. While this could have been the source of some major angst, I was glad the author decided these things wouldn’t be a big issue.
I loved the fact that Duke was older, but was swept off his feet by the younger Vaughan. Vaughan knew what he wanted and went after it.
God knew how long it’d been since the man had felt appreciated and valued, but Vaughan would make sure he never felt the need again. He’d love Duke for as long as he could.
When something bad happened to Duke I was shocked, but also very excited for this turn of events (hurt/comfort OH YEAH BABY!).
It was wonderful to see that Vaughan did something for Duke that made sure Duke would never doubt his love for him. Because Vaughan had loved him for years and would always do so.
Recommended!
From the dedication:
Duke holds a very special place in my heart so I had to put him with a man that wasn’t as hardcore and rough as what Duke was used to being around. Welcome…Vaughan Webb, Esquire. But because of their age difference and of course, Vaughan being Duke’s best friend’s son, I had to develop a situation that would make Vaughan undeniably the best thing to happen to Duke. I hope you enjoy their story.
I loved this. Duke is a 45 year old bounty hunter, but despite his rough exterior he doesn’t always want to be the alpha man. That’s why Vaughan was so perfect for him. 14 years his junior and his best friend’s so. While this could have been the source of some major angst, I was glad the author decided these things wouldn’t be a big issue.
I loved the fact that Duke was older, but was swept off his feet by the younger Vaughan. Vaughan knew what he wanted and went after it.
God knew how long it’d been since the man had felt appreciated and valued, but Vaughan would make sure he never felt the need again. He’d love Duke for as long as he could.
When something bad happened to Duke I was shocked, but also very excited for this turn of events (hurt/comfort OH YEAH BABY!).
It was wonderful to see that Vaughan did something for Duke that made sure Duke would never doubt his love for him. Because Vaughan had loved him for years and would always do so.
Recommended!
October 28, 2015
*2.5 stars*
I completely agree with Lili's review on this.
I'm all over books with "my dad's best friend" as a trope, but there was barely any conflict here. Duke caved way to easily. Scratch that, he didn't resist at all. And the dad was weird too. He was friends with Duke for a long time and suddenly "I'd want you to be my son-in-law".
Also, I found the totally weird.
I did like that Vaughan was the bossy top and not the other way around. This was a nice change from the usual.
The smex was hot as always but not as much as in the author's other books.
I completely agree with Lili's review on this.
I'm all over books with "my dad's best friend" as a trope, but there was barely any conflict here. Duke caved way to easily. Scratch that, he didn't resist at all. And the dad was weird too. He was friends with Duke for a long time and suddenly "I'd want you to be my son-in-law".
Also, I found the totally weird.
I did like that Vaughan was the bossy top and not the other way around. This was a nice change from the usual.
The smex was hot as always but not as much as in the author's other books.
October 27, 2015
BR, October 26th with Susan
Well.... Geeez, I couldn't put this book down!!
Totally unbelievable but very much enjoyable, so there's that!!
I liked Duke and Vaughan. It was heartbreaking when tragedy happened and Vaughan felt torn and adamant to safe his man.
Next story will be about Vaughan's dad, Quinn and the sweet doctor Cayson.
Can wait for that...
October 4, 2022
I decided to read this because of the age-gap and, well... bounty hunters, and father's best friend.
Honestly, I wish I had enjoyed it more. Duke and Vaughan were amazing, but I felt like Vaughan did everything. It was like Vaughan loved Duke more than Duke loved Vaughan.
I'm starting to think A.E. books are not for me. I will try maybe one more, but if it's the same, that's it.
Honestly, I wish I had enjoyed it more. Duke and Vaughan were amazing, but I felt like Vaughan did everything. It was like Vaughan loved Duke more than Duke loved Vaughan.
I'm starting to think A.E. books are not for me. I will try maybe one more, but if it's the same, that's it.
August 25, 2023
Sweet romance has lost its edge
August 30, 2018
The book was okay. It didn't blow my socks off like I expected. Maybe it was because I didn't really care for the characters of the story. Out of all of them I liked Vaughan, Quick's son, the most. He is driven, straightforward and knows what he wants. He wants his Dad's best friend Duke. He has waited for a long time and now he is ready to claim his prize. It was cute how V was all suave, voice dripping with sexual innuendo, how he basically blew into Duke's life and took over. I didn't mind that part - I hate all the beating around the bush. He went straight for the jugular!
Duke on the other hand I could not figure out what his deal was. He was lonely and was pining away for his ex-lover Judge who dropped him like a hot potato when he met another man and fell in love. They were friends with benefits, and Duke himself later admitted that he never loved Judge. So, what's with the pining? And even after he was nearly dying in the hospital and already involved with V, when Judge came to see him he was all shivery when Judge hugged him because he remembered how it felt to be held by him. Wow, seriously, you profess to be more than infatuated with another man but you still think about your ex? Not, cool, man! And also the fact that Duke was so easily led. I mean 7 weeks, WEEKS, after nearly dying and he goes bounty hunting, being goaded into it really by, wait for it, Judge among others!!! I mean, why is he still here on the horizon? The whole book was about talking to death about what and how they will do each other, LOTS of talking.
Judge, I hated Judge. Just meh character!
Quick aka Roman is V's Dad and he is fine with his son and his best friend getting together, he has known about his son's feeling for years. And he should be alright with everything gay and all that entails, right? So, why when he so blatantly lusts after his son's and friend's doctor does he become the biggest motherf*cking a$$hole on the planet!? He totally humiliates him and is just plain disgusted with him when he expresses his interest! What, you are okay with your son being gay but God forbid you would be labeled anything like that? That raises the question if just HOW accepting YOU are!!!
I also am upset because there was barely any mention of bounty hunting or any day to day interaction. I mean, no introduction to the guys that work there. Usually they are almost like brothers, so close and here there was just part that was missing. The whole book flew by really fast, I didn't even get the chance to really get into it and it was over. Oh, but the end part was a complete sex-a-thon between V and Duke! Hmmm! *not funny*
And the way the premise of the next book happened...really? A bet? I hope it gets better...
Duke on the other hand I could not figure out what his deal was. He was lonely and was pining away for his ex-lover Judge who dropped him like a hot potato when he met another man and fell in love. They were friends with benefits, and Duke himself later admitted that he never loved Judge. So, what's with the pining? And even after he was nearly dying in the hospital and already involved with V, when Judge came to see him he was all shivery when Judge hugged him because he remembered how it felt to be held by him. Wow, seriously, you profess to be more than infatuated with another man but you still think about your ex? Not, cool, man! And also the fact that Duke was so easily led. I mean 7 weeks, WEEKS, after nearly dying and he goes bounty hunting, being goaded into it really by, wait for it, Judge among others!!! I mean, why is he still here on the horizon? The whole book was about talking to death about what and how they will do each other, LOTS of talking.
Judge, I hated Judge. Just meh character!
Quick aka Roman is V's Dad and he is fine with his son and his best friend getting together, he has known about his son's feeling for years. And he should be alright with everything gay and all that entails, right? So, why when he so blatantly lusts after his son's and friend's doctor does he become the biggest motherf*cking a$$hole on the planet!? He totally humiliates him and is just plain disgusted with him when he expresses his interest! What, you are okay with your son being gay but God forbid you would be labeled anything like that? That raises the question if just HOW accepting YOU are!!!
I also am upset because there was barely any mention of bounty hunting or any day to day interaction. I mean, no introduction to the guys that work there. Usually they are almost like brothers, so close and here there was just part that was missing. The whole book flew by really fast, I didn't even get the chance to really get into it and it was over. Oh, but the end part was a complete sex-a-thon between V and Duke! Hmmm! *not funny*
And the way the premise of the next book happened...really? A bet? I hope it gets better...
October 4, 2022
4**** stars
I wouldn’t have thought I would like this spin off series from the Nothing Special Books 1 - 5 series as much as I did.
I never really cared about Duke when I met him first in Don't Judge. So it was a bit of an odd feeling to see his side of the story when it came to the hopes and feelings he had toward Judge for years and I started resenting Judge a little for his previous actions - and that was odd because I loved his and Austin’s story. But… there was a heartbroken man he left behind. Duke.
Fortunately there isn’t much heartache left in Duke after Vaughn, his best friends son, came back home after years of studies abroad. And things get serious pretty fast. So fast my head was almost spinning. You can say, Vaughn was on a mission!
I’m not quite sure how I feel about Vaughn, though. He’s in his early thirties, hot, smart and obviously a good man. But isn’t it at least a little creepy, that he is in love with his father’s best friend since his teenage years and dedicated his whole life to become the man Duke deserves and needs in his eyes? I don't know...
Anywaaaayyy. I liked the story very much and can totally recommend it to everyone who loved the guys from "Nothing Special" already. But it's not necessary to read these books first, as this series can stand on it's own.
And listening to Aiden Snow doing this sexilicious (as Lyn❤Loves❤Listening #AUDIOBOOKADDICT had put it) thing he does with his voice is always a good time. So I will definitely continue with this series.
************
"Promises" Series:
Book 1 - Part 1 - 4 stars
Book 2 - Part 2 - 4.25 stars
Book 3 - Part 3 - 3.25 stars
Book 4 - Part 4 - 4.5 stars
I wouldn’t have thought I would like this spin off series from the Nothing Special Books 1 - 5 series as much as I did.
I never really cared about Duke when I met him first in Don't Judge. So it was a bit of an odd feeling to see his side of the story when it came to the hopes and feelings he had toward Judge for years and I started resenting Judge a little for his previous actions - and that was odd because I loved his and Austin’s story. But… there was a heartbroken man he left behind. Duke.
Fortunately there isn’t much heartache left in Duke after Vaughn, his best friends son, came back home after years of studies abroad. And things get serious pretty fast. So fast my head was almost spinning. You can say, Vaughn was on a mission!
I’m not quite sure how I feel about Vaughn, though. He’s in his early thirties, hot, smart and obviously a good man. But isn’t it at least a little creepy, that he is in love with his father’s best friend since his teenage years and dedicated his whole life to become the man Duke deserves and needs in his eyes? I don't know...
Anywaaaayyy. I liked the story very much and can totally recommend it to everyone who loved the guys from "Nothing Special" already. But it's not necessary to read these books first, as this series can stand on it's own.
And listening to Aiden Snow doing this sexilicious (as Lyn❤Loves❤Listening #AUDIOBOOKADDICT had put it) thing he does with his voice is always a good time. So I will definitely continue with this series.
************
"Promises" Series:
Book 1 - Part 1 - 4 stars
Book 2 - Part 2 - 4.25 stars
Book 3 - Part 3 - 3.25 stars
Book 4 - Part 4 - 4.5 stars
November 4, 2015
AE does Alphas so well....another thing she does his power bottoms well. Add that to a sexy age gap and well, its one unexpected surprise.
I think this is one of the "sweeter" books. Vaughan is such a romantic, dominating in his own right, but still so on love with the man (for a long time) that its just sweet and endearing.
When he said he was going to 'woo' him, I about died *thud*
While this story is about Duke and Vaughan,
Quick is a huge part of this book, and Ho boy that man is something. Y'all loved Judge? wait til you get a load of him. I seriously can't wait for part 2
I think this is one of the "sweeter" books. Vaughan is such a romantic, dominating in his own right, but still so on love with the man (for a long time) that its just sweet and endearing.
When he said he was going to 'woo' him, I about died *thud*
While this story is about Duke and Vaughan,
Quick is a huge part of this book, and Ho boy that man is something. Y'all loved Judge? wait til you get a load of him. I seriously can't wait for part 2
May 23, 2020
2.5
Started out with the fire but slowly lost the heat with a quickness. A cotton candy story good enough to pass the time, but if you’re looking for a story this is not the book.
December 2, 2015
I thought this book is about the taboo. The hero in love with his best friend's son. But it seems like the said best friend was totally cool with his son being gay and in love with his friend. Okay.
Duke Morgan, 45, a bounty hunter. He had just got off a non-comittal relationship. Quick is his best friend/business partner.
Vaughn Webb, 31, a lawyer. He is Quick's son who grew up with his mother, only paying occasional visit to Quick. He had been in love with Duke since forever and now that he is all grown up and had his own career, he is determine to move into town and claimed his man. Woah!
I honestly didn't expect Vaughn to be come to Duke that aggressively and giving him not much of a choice. I understand that his love for Duke is all encompassing because he had been harboring the feeling for years. I wish we actually get to have some flashback on how Vaughn start to fall for Duke during his teenage years.
For Duke part, I feel as if he was just flattered with Vaughn attention and totally soaking it up. I mean, who wouldn't be when a hot sexy lawyer that looks like a GQ cover model said he wants to devour you.
The most interesting part of the story is when Duke got seriously hurt during one of his bounty hunt before he went for an actual date with Vaughn. Is not a spoiler since it was mentioned in the blurb. Anyway, I enjoyed the part where we worry about Duke and seeing Vaughn going all obsessive with saving his man. I'm a sucker for sappiness.
But after the halfway mark, when Duke and Vaughn really got together I feel like the story lost me. The main reason being that it felt too must like insta-love. They haven't even went for an actual date or having sex to calling each other 'babe' and 'sweetheart' and 'loving each other'. The saving grace is the little tidbits about Quick and a certain doctor. Maybe I will read the next one just to see how Quick handle himself being interested in a man for the first time.
Duke Morgan, 45, a bounty hunter. He had just got off a non-comittal relationship. Quick is his best friend/business partner.
Vaughn Webb, 31, a lawyer. He is Quick's son who grew up with his mother, only paying occasional visit to Quick. He had been in love with Duke since forever and now that he is all grown up and had his own career, he is determine to move into town and claimed his man. Woah!
I honestly didn't expect Vaughn to be come to Duke that aggressively and giving him not much of a choice. I understand that his love for Duke is all encompassing because he had been harboring the feeling for years. I wish we actually get to have some flashback on how Vaughn start to fall for Duke during his teenage years.
For Duke part, I feel as if he was just flattered with Vaughn attention and totally soaking it up. I mean, who wouldn't be when a hot sexy lawyer that looks like a GQ cover model said he wants to devour you.
The most interesting part of the story is when Duke got seriously hurt during one of his bounty hunt before he went for an actual date with Vaughn. Is not a spoiler since it was mentioned in the blurb. Anyway, I enjoyed the part where we worry about Duke and seeing Vaughn going all obsessive with saving his man. I'm a sucker for sappiness.
But after the halfway mark, when Duke and Vaughn really got together I feel like the story lost me. The main reason being that it felt too must like insta-love. They haven't even went for an actual date or having sex to calling each other 'babe' and 'sweetheart' and 'loving each other'. The saving grace is the little tidbits about Quick and a certain doctor. Maybe I will read the next one just to see how Quick handle himself being interested in a man for the first time.
July 21, 2016
I re-read the good parts. Because I just love Vaughan. So I have to give this book some credit. I'm upping the rating (originally 3 stars).
*******************************************
It started really good. I thought it was going to be 5 stars. And then it kind of went down the hill...
What I liked :
- I liked the writing style.
- The chemistry.. Oh. My. God. Sizzling!! Yum!
- I loved how devoted Vaughan to Duke. *sigh*
Quick and Cayson's story sounds more interesting. Can't wait!
*******************************************
It started really good. I thought it was going to be 5 stars. And then it kind of went down the hill...
What I liked :
- I liked the writing style.
- The chemistry.. Oh. My. God. Sizzling!! Yum!
- I loved how devoted Vaughan to Duke. *sigh*
Quick and Cayson's story sounds more interesting. Can't wait!
January 23, 2021
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2020/01/03/...
Rating: 3.5 Stars – that place between like and love
Thank you to Signal Boost Promotions and Audible for providing the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 3.5 Stars – that place between like and love
Thank you to Signal Boost Promotions and Audible for providing the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2023
Onto the bounty hunters!
This is an older book so we're back with the grammatical errors and odd bits but it's still a good start to this series.
I think I probably should have read this interspersed with the Nothing Special series based on publication date but never mind.
I've also got zero clue whether the American medical system would allow the procedure which happens in this book but it felt like it was possible within the bounds of this story so I'm running with it.
Duke is a sweetheart and I'm really happy that Vaughan is there to show and tell him daily just how special he is.
I liked the introduction of the rest of the crew and I there was enough action in this book for of not to feel too much different to the police work of Nothing Special.
This is an older book so we're back with the grammatical errors and odd bits but it's still a good start to this series.
I think I probably should have read this interspersed with the Nothing Special series based on publication date but never mind.
I've also got zero clue whether the American medical system would allow the procedure which happens in this book but it felt like it was possible within the bounds of this story so I'm running with it.
Duke is a sweetheart and I'm really happy that Vaughan is there to show and tell him daily just how special he is.
I liked the introduction of the rest of the crew and I there was enough action in this book for of not to feel too much different to the police work of Nothing Special.
November 30, 2023
First one where his father is the wingman. Who is all this affectionate behavior being thrown at. Well it's dad's bestfriend! Oh and they ate working on capturing a bail jumper. Yeah! Woah! There are more guys in the office.
Basically I don't know how to feel! It was fun, spicy...then the doctor. Will someone give doc a hug?
Basically I don't know how to feel! It was fun, spicy...then the doctor. Will someone give doc a hug?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 429 reviews