Release Day Review ~ Hell and Back by Dirk Greyson
Title: Hell and Back
Author: Dirk Greyson
Release Date: October 27, 2017
Category: Contemporary
Pages: 200
Seventeen years ago, Forge Reynolds fell in love… and had his heart broken. When Staff Sergeant Gage Livingston was brought into Forge’s Army field hospital, temporarily paralyzed, Forge sat with him, read his letters, answered his mail, and formed a connection he thought would last. But Gage was sent home, Forge transferred to a new post, and his letters to Gage went unanswered.
Now in the middle of a bitter divorce, Forge is sick and tired of his husband’s manipulation. He's almost ready to make any sacrifice to get closure—then he finds Granger murdered execution-style in their home. Forge had no idea about Granger’s illicit activities, but the killers don’t believe that. They think Forge has something they want, and they’re coming after him.
When Forge’s lawyer arranges for professional protection, the last face Forge expects to see is Gage’s. Can he even contemplate a second chance for them after almost two decades, or will hoping only lead to more heartache? Before they can explore the possibilities, they must figure out what information Granger had—that others are willing to kill for—or that possible heartache could become a certainty.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*
This book captured my attention from the beginning and never let go, so much so, that I read it in one day! Forge is going through an acrimonious divorce and is tired. Of course, those feelings are made worse because he and his soon to be ex-husband still live in the same house, and his ex is a lawyer who doesn't lose. Forge has reached the limit on his patience when he comes home and then he finds his ex murdered. When he refuses to leave his home, his lawyer contacts security to protect him. But, it's not just any security agency. It turns out to be Forge's first love from more than 15 years ago. Forge is reeling from the murder of his ex, and now being forced to spend time with Gage. Gage isn't any happier about the reuniting than Forge is. Gage is bitter about Forge disappearing from his life all those years ago, but made the best of the life he's living.
This was a fast-paced, mystery/suspense story and I absolutely loved it! I thought both Forge and Gage were great, likable characters. They had history and love and though they hadn't had contact for 17 years, once they were together again, it was like coming home for both of them. Once they worked through their issues, of course. I loved that both men were more mature, which I think made this story more believable. They'd had their connection and been through tough times together in the past which allowed them to be more open and honest with each other now. Gage is a great support and protector while Forge is dealing with the fallout of his ex's death, and unraveling the mystery of what really happened.
Honestly, for me, this story was just about perfect. It was a perfect melding of mystery/suspense and romance. I never felt that either parts of the story were overshadowed by the other. The love between Forge and Gage grabbed you from the pages and they were hot together! I think the author did a fantastic job of showing the depth of the love the men had felt and how when willing, that love came back stronger. I'd love to get more of Forge and Gage! This story is one you definitely need to read! I mean, it's mystery/suspense AND second chance romance!
Rating: 5++++ stars!
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