Taken by HelenKay Dimon

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Wade Royer and Elijah Sterling are on shaky ground. While initially reluctant Eli is finally ready to take things to the next level, Wade is hesitant. He senses trouble coming and he’s right. Still, they know their fiercely undeniable connection—both in and out of the bedroom—is worth saving.

Then a man from Eli’s past reappears and the CIA comes calling—and they both want Eli back. With their relationship in jeopardy of falling apart and Eli in danger of a different kind, both men will have to decide what they really want—and then take it…

“I’m betting my life on you.”

Wade and Eli’s secondary storyline, throughout Mercy and Only, was my first dip into the m/m genre, and I can’t say I was disappointed.  I was drawn to the intensity between them.  There was no way, I could pass up the chance to get more of their story in this novella.

Each of the books, in this series, are centered around the supper club, Holton Woods. This novella could be read as a standalone, but you would be missing out on all the fun and the backstories of the other characters and relationships. 

Wade is the bartender at Holton Woods and Kyra’s older brother. He’s big, masculine and sexy, but he carries around such a vulnerability. Especially, where Eli is concerned.  

Eli has been through a lot. His “exit” from the CIA was anything but pleasant and Wade was there to see it all. Eli is living a quieter life than he’s used to, but he’s ready for a chance to settle down with Wade. Now, if only he can convince, Wade he’s not going anywhere.

“All I wanted tonight was to get to you.”

I love both of these guys! At different points throughout the novella, I was questioning whether they would even be able to get past the hurt and work things out. I could understand Wade’s fear that Eli might wake up and want more someday. But, my heart kind of broke for Eli at the same time. He just wanted Wade to believe in him.  It was incredibly hot watching them work things out though!

“I love when you talk dirty.”

“Then the next ten minutes are going to be pretty fucking hot for you.”

This series is full of sexiness and a great way to ease in m/m, if you’re considering it.  

4/5 Fangs

*ARC kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*