Review: Thin Ice by Declan Rhodes 5 of 5 stars

Thin Ice by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Nolan Mercer is a veteran hockey star who’s spent years turning pain into performance, but when a man tied to his old team dies trying to reach him, the Guardians quietly assign Elias Ward to protect him during the Stanley Cup Final. What should be a simple job spirals fast: Nolan remembers dangerous things about a rookie’s long‑ago death, his body is failing, and someone powerful wants the past to stay buried. As attacks escalate, Elias finds himself falling for the man he’s meant to guard, even as Nolan refuses to stop digging for the truth — a truth that could get them both killed.

A great suspense story wrapped around a romance, this book pulled me in from the start. I loved Nolan and Elias’s relationship and the way they managed to stay connected and supportive even with all the pressure surrounding them both. The medical details felt believable, and the tie‑in with ice hockey made everything even more grounded. Their thoughts and emotions were easy to feel and understand, and I found myself fully invested as the danger escalated and the truth came to light. I loved that in the end everything worked out, giving them the well‑deserved HEA they’d fought so hard for. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: Santa Just for One Day by Declan Rhodes 3 of 5 stars

Santa Just for One Day by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Noel North has lost his Christmas spirit—until carefree Jack Frost drifts into his life and rekindles it. But Jack’s father is a ruthless developer determined to shut down Yuletide Valley’s hospital and erase the town’s traditions. As Noel and Jack grow closer, Noel steps into his late father’s Santa suit and joins Jack to fight back. Together, they race to save the hospital and protect the town’s holiday magic before Jack’s father destroys Christmas for good.

A really nice Christmas short story with a gentle emotional core. I enjoyed watching Noel confront everything he’d tried to leave behind in Yuletide Valley — his complicated feelings about his hometown, the weight of his father’s legacy, and what it truly means to step into the Santa role he’s being asked to take over. His growing connection with Jack adds another layer, especially as Noel has to face how Jack’s family ties clash with his own history. Overall, it’s a festive, easy read with a warm holiday atmosphere and a satisfying blend of personal reflection and budding romance. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: Shadow Line by Declan Rhodes 5 of 5 stars

Shadow Line by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dane Fletcher and Blaise Farrow — two very different bodyguards — are forced to work together after a one‑night encounter turns into an unexpected reunion on the same high‑risk assignment. Their principals, two reporters chasing the same explosive story from opposite angles, have uncovered a domestic extremist network that wants them silenced before a high‑profile wedding on Martha’s Vineyard. Dane protects by holding the line; Farrow protects by crossing it — and as the threat escalates, so does the tension between them. One wrong move could cost a life, but getting too close might be the only way either of them survives.

This romantic suspense story delivers a great mix of danger, tension, and emotional pull. The threat against the journalists keeps the suspense sharp, but it’s the undeniable connection between the two bodyguards that really steals the spotlight. The author teases their growing feelings beautifully, leaving you wondering whether their partnership will turn into something deeper in the future. I loved the way the extremist network was unravelled — smart, layered, and solved with the help of many people working together. And the inclusion of sourdough starters with names was such a charming, unexpected touch that added warmth to all the intensity. Easy to feel, easy to understand, and full of suspense, drama, danger, and tenderness — this story will keep you hooked from start to finish. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: Counterpoint by Declan Rhodes 5 of 5 stars

Counterpoint by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A powerful New Orleans conductor receives a handwritten funeral march warning that someone from his past wants him dead. Dominic St. Clair hires protection, bringing former Army Ranger Thiago into his music‑filled home — and into constant friction with Luca, Dominic’s fiercely loyal assistant. As threats escalate into break‑ins and near‑attacks, Thiago and Luca are forced into close proximity, uncovering a decades‑old grudge while fighting an inconvenient attraction. Everything builds toward Dominic’s final concert, where the attacker plans a public reckoning, and Thiago and Luca must trust each other if they hope to save him — and risk choosing a future together.

I loved this story. The pull between Luca and Thiago is undeniable from the moment they’re forced into each other’s orbit, and that simmering tension threads beautifully through the entire story. Their connection feels raw and real, shaped by two very different lives but drawn together by the same fierce need to protect Dominic as danger closes in. The suspense is wonderfully handled, each new threat tightening the atmosphere and guiding me toward the truth behind the plot without ever giving too much away. The emotional stakes are just as high as the physical ones — grief, loyalty, fear, longing, and hope all collide in ways that feel deeply human and skillfully written. What stood out most was how their growing bond is woven into the unfolding mystery rather than overshadowing it. The tenderness between them, the guarded vulnerability, and the slow shift from distrust to something much deeper made their relationship feel fully earned. I loved how eccentric Dominic was and yet he was very capable of love and affection for those important to him. A gripping blend of tension, emotion, and connection that kept me invested in both the danger and the love story at its heart. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: First Watch by Declan Rhodes 5 of 5 stars

First Watch by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Griffin, a former top bodyguard haunted by a past failure, takes on a high‑risk job protecting Rune, a tightly controlled K‑pop star. Close quarters and constant danger pull them together fast, blurring the line between duty and desire. When a string of “accidents” turns deadly, Griffin realises someone is targeting Rune — and the threat may be coming from inside his own security system. To keep Rune safe, he must face the mistake that ruined his career, and to love him, he has to fight for Rune’s voice in a world determined to silence him.

I loved this story that delivered a gripping blend of danger, intimacy, and emotional depth. Rune lives in a world where every move is monitored and every choice is made for him — a life shaped by handlers, managers, and a system that treats him like a product instead of a person. The only one who sees him, protects him, and refuses to control him is Griffin. Their connection was intense from the start, forged in close quarters and sharpened by the constant threat surrounding them. What begins as duty became something far more powerful, and the love that grew between them felt both forbidden and inevitable. Griffin gave Rune the freedom he’s never had, and Rune gave Griffin a reason to believe in himself again. With real danger closing in and the stakes rising at every turn, their relationship became the one thing worth fighting for. This was a high‑tension, high‑emotion romance where love is both the risk and the reward. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: Beyond Protection by Declan Rhodes 5 of 5 stars

Beyond Protection: MM Christmas Romantic Suspense by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cormac “Mac” McCabe, Major League Baseball’s first openly gay MVP, seeks refuge with family in Seattle after heartbreak. His quiet Thanksgiving is shattered by a stalker, prompting his cousin to hire Eamon Price, a bodyguard burdened by past tragedy. As Eamon protects Mac, holiday lights, family warmth, and a Christmas ship cruise spark unexpected intimacy. But when danger escalates just before Christmas, both men must confront fear and vulnerability—discovering that love and courage are inseparable.

I loved this story where love, trust, and holiday magic transformed fear into courage and protection into intimacy. I loved the way that found family and belonging were shown via Mac’s cousins, and the warmth of family gatherings emphasises the theme of chosen and biological family as safe havens. I also liked that even though Eamon was initially an outsider, he found belonging through trust and intimacy, reinforcing the idea that love creates new forms of family. The mystery of the stalker and the way that was woven into the story was great for the danger and drama, which ramped up as the story progressed, drawing the two men closer together. The emotions and feelings were big and easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: Borrowed Pain by Declan Rhodes 5 of 5 stars

Borrowed Pain: MM Romantic Suspense by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a story about Dr. Miles McCabe, a crisis counselor who usually helps others, and Rowan Ashcroft, a secretive investigative podcaster, who are forced to team up against a dangerous conspiracy. Miles is sidelined from his job and facing scrutiny after his past gets entangled in a new, disturbing case. Rowan, a former operative, built his life on silence and caution, distrusting everyone.  A violent event forces them to cooperate, leading them into a dark world of shadowy research and deadly secrets. Their initial, reluctant partnership quickly deepens into an unexpected attraction. The central conflict is the risk they must take: Miles risks his career, and Rowan risks his emotional safety. To survive, they must not only expose the conspiracy but also learn to trust each other and accept that love is worth the danger.

I loved this story with the mystery, conspiracy and drama that they were in the middle of the story. Easy to read, feel and understand the characters felt real and their emotions were easy to feel. I was addicted to the dramatic story and hopeful for a good result. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: Buried Past by Declan Rhodes 4 of 5 stars

Buried Past by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

EMT Matthew McCabe is no stranger to crisis, but nothing compares to the mysterious man pulled from a wreck with a bullet wound and no name. That man, Dorian Wallace, vanishes—only to reappear at Matthew's doorstep, injured and hunted. A failed mission and rising body count have forced Dorian out of hiding, and for reasons he can't explain, he turns to the one person who once saved him. Drawn into a web of secrets and a shadowy conspiracy, Matthew chooses trust over protocol. As danger escalates and their bond deepens, both men must face their buried truths—because the past always demands a reckoning.

I really enjoyed this story which blended suspense, emotional tension, and the magnetism of two haunted souls. I love the McCabe brothers who are like a crack military team and their Ma just makes you want for her to adopt you too. A major mystery story of corruption and manipulation of information. A lot of emotions and feelings in this story from events in the past and present. This was an MM story with mature content. 

** Please read the trigger warnings.

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Review: Reunited by Declan Rhodes 4 of 5 stars

Reunited by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Daniel Cummings, co-owner of a matchmaking service, is ready for love again—but his heart remains tethered to the past. His current relationship lacks commitment, and the memory of Kenneth, the man who broke him a decade ago, still lingers. Kenneth Taylor, now a successful entrepreneur, once rejected Daniel’s ultimate proposal. Seeking a fresh start, he turns to Match Made, unaware that fate has other plans. When the two unexpectedly cross paths at a wedding, old wounds resurface alongside rekindled emotions. Daniel’s heart may be held together with metaphorical duct tape, but the question remains—can he trust Kenneth enough to give love a second chance? 

I loved this poignant exploration of heartbreak, healing, and the possibility of redemption. It was also great to see something between two older men. There were lots of emotions and feelings as the past was explored as well as the present and future. I appreciated the lessons that Daniel learned about giving more time to think. I was sad that this is the end of the series as I felt we at least deserved more weddings! Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: Duped by Declan Rhodes 3 of 5 stars

Duped by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Finn Weston is a successful TV action star who, despite his fame, seeks a partner who appreciates his true self. He uses the Match Made service and is paired with Alex Ramsey, a zookeeper who prefers a solitary life with animals and classic TV. Finn and Alex are instantly drawn to each other, but their budding relationship faces challenges. Finn struggles to reveal his TV career to Alex, while Alex becomes consumed with caring for an endangered family of red wolves. Their relationship hits a rough patch, and the hope is that their friends, fans, and co-workers can help them navigate these difficulties and save their future together, despite their individual competencies in their respective fields not translating to their personal relationship.

I enjoyed this story with the two men who were opposites in so many ways but found as appreciation for each other and their world. There was some angst when they hit the rough patch but I did feel bad for Finn as much of their interaction was all around Alex and his precious red wolves. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: Geeked by Declan Rhodes 4 of 5 stars

Geeked by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blake Moss, a partner at the gay matchmaking company Match Made, appears outwardly cheerful but is internally struggling with the lingering effects of a past traumatic breakup. Hunter Schultz, a former football jock and head of the city's LGBTQ+ youth center, is recovering from his own recent breakup. They meet through a charity auction, where Blake's boss buys him a date with Hunter. Despite Blake's initial fear, and Hunter's intrigue, their date goes surprisingly well, hinting at a promising future until Hunter's jealous ex, Robert, intervenes, triggering Blake's anxiety.

I loved this story with the two men who were not obviously compatible but were perfect for each other. They had their challenges but were able to get past them to get the HEA that they both deserved. Blake was so sweet and needed to get confidence in their relationship. The love and feelings between them both was easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: Mismatched by Declan Rhodes 3 of 5 stars

Mismatched by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

An unexpected romance between Hank Donovan, a successful but lonely lawyer who believes children are out of the question, and Lucas Dean, a free-spirited motorcycle shop owner who dreams of being a father. Initially mismatched by a computer error from a dating service, their disastrous first date is followed by a second chance that sets in motion a series of life-changing events: a "lakeside kiss," a family death, and the introduction of a little girl named Jasmine. These events ultimately lead to Hank finding companionship, Lucas becoming a dad, and Jasmine finding a permanent home.

I loved this story with the two men who should not work together but were the best for each other especially when Jasmine was added to the mix. I loved the various trials that their relationship went through although they could have benefited from more detail about the emotions and feelings of the characters. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: Breach Point: MM Romantic Suspense by Declan Rhodes 5 of 5 stars

Breach Point: MM Romantic Suspense by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Michael McCabe, a SWAT officer on an unwanted vacation in Tahiti due to his brother's near-death experience, finds his break disrupted by an explosion, hinting at something more sinister than bad luck. There, he encounters Alex Kessler, who is in Tahiti to scatter his late wife's ashes. They are unexpectedly drawn into the unfolding violence, and their connection deepens as the threat follows them back to Seattle. They must learn to trust each other as they uncover secret files, hidden agendas, and a classified operation called Project Asphodel, which puts them in danger. Their initial violent encounter evolves into an unexpected and profound connection as they work together to unravel the truth. What started in Tahiti doesn't end there; it follows them home.

I loved this story which was danger and drama from the start to the ending skilfully woven around the love story between Alex and Michael which was full of passion. The various settings were clearly described and the other characters were easy to see in your mind. Easy to read, feel and understand. This MM story with mature content.

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Review: The First Time Around by Declan Rhodes 4 of 5 stars

The First Time Around by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Daniel, a passionate actor and writer, finds unexpected fame after a sensational onstage kiss with theater veteran Stanley. His newfound notoriety leads him into the arms of Mark, a wealthy local who is recovering from a toxic past relationship. Their chemistry is undeniable, but Daniel's ambitions and the lure of New York threaten their chance at stability. As desire ignites between them, they must confront whether their connection can endure beyond the moment.

This was a story full of emotions and feelings as the two men met and adjusted to a new relationship between them. There was a lot of angst for Daniel as he accepted that he was not as straight as he thought he was but I thought that it could have been more detailed. Easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: The Pretend Husband by Declan Rhodes 4 of 5 stars

The Pretend Husband by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

We Could Pretend I'm Your Husband follows Alex, who, after a tough breakup, takes refuge at Liam’s home for what was supposed to be a short stay. In exchange for helping out with chores, he settles in—until weeks stretch into months. When friends and strangers alike assume they’re a couple, Alex and Liam decide to lean into the misconception, crafting a harmless façade of a married life. But their plan soon blurs the line between pretense and reality. Just as Alex secures a solid job and prepares to leave, an unexpected late-night encounter forces both men to reconsider everything. What started as a convenient arrangement might just turn into something real.

I loved this story with the two men who met in a bar and fell in love over time as they lived in the same house and then pretended to be married. There was a lot of emotions and feelings in this story over the end of Alex's breakup and between Alex and Liam. This was an endearing story which will make you smile. This was an MM story with mature content.

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Review: Burn Patterns by Declan Rhodes 4 of 5 stars

Burn Patterns by Declan Rhodes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Firefighter Marcus McCabe understands the destructive force of fire, but nothing has ever felt more dangerous than the mysterious arsonist targeting him. Forced to work alongside forensic psychologist James Reynolds, Marcus finds himself drawn into a tense investigation—and an even more reckless attraction. As the fires escalate, leaving messages meant for Marcus, their connection grows dangerously intense. With pressure mounting from all sides, Marcus and James must determine whether the greatest threat comes from the arsonist—or the emotions they can no longer ignore.

This was a dramatic story as we went on a rollercoaster with Marcus and James who were trying to solve who was deliberately setting fires and why. Their relationship was explosive too and to mix the fire mystery with that made for an addictive read. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

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