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Irons and Works: Key Largo #3
Cover Up
Felix has a major problem.
He’s pining.
Well, pining might not be the right word for how he feels about the absurdly hot, one-armed chef who works next door, but it’s close enough.
Felix doesn’t have high hopes for romance, though. Not with the fact that his face blindness means every time he looks at Deimos, it’s like he’s seeing him for the first time. After all, who would want a relationship with a man who couldn’t pick him out of a crowd?
But that’s not his actual problem. Felix learns he needs to see his terrible family for his grammy’s funeral, and Dei has offered to go along to act like his boyfriend.
And God help him, but Felix can’t bring himself to say no.
But hey, what’s a little emotional torture when he gets to pretend Dei is his for a little while?
It seems that Dei has softer, kinder plans for Felix’s heart than to torture it, however—and Felix quickly learns there’s no way to cover up being in love. Dei’s words of affection are powerful, and Felix realizes the only thing in the world he wants is to let Dei in.
Cover-Up is a slow burn, friends to lovers romance featuring fake boyfriends, tattoos as a love language, gratuitous use of adorable pet names, pining, there's only one bed, heavy praise, steamy nights, and the most satisfying happily ever after.
He’s pining.
Well, pining might not be the right word for how he feels about the absurdly hot, one-armed chef who works next door, but it’s close enough.
Felix doesn’t have high hopes for romance, though. Not with the fact that his face blindness means every time he looks at Deimos, it’s like he’s seeing him for the first time. After all, who would want a relationship with a man who couldn’t pick him out of a crowd?
But that’s not his actual problem. Felix learns he needs to see his terrible family for his grammy’s funeral, and Dei has offered to go along to act like his boyfriend.
And God help him, but Felix can’t bring himself to say no.
But hey, what’s a little emotional torture when he gets to pretend Dei is his for a little while?
It seems that Dei has softer, kinder plans for Felix’s heart than to torture it, however—and Felix quickly learns there’s no way to cover up being in love. Dei’s words of affection are powerful, and Felix realizes the only thing in the world he wants is to let Dei in.
Cover-Up is a slow burn, friends to lovers romance featuring fake boyfriends, tattoos as a love language, gratuitous use of adorable pet names, pining, there's only one bed, heavy praise, steamy nights, and the most satisfying happily ever after.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2023
107 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Lindsey
139 books1,352 followersE.M. Lindsey is the author of MM contemporary romance. She presently lives and works in the southeastern United States.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
October 3, 2023
4.5/5 stars
Felix and Dei love each other so much it makes me want to cry. The disability rep was amazing. Everything about this was just simply so heartwarming. I loved how they slowly and hard fell for each other. Ahhh it warmed my heart 🥹
Felix grinned and pulled back. In all reality, he’d never appreciate his brain damage. He’d never be thankful that everyone would remain vague and strange to him at first glance. But there was something about the newness of Dei’s face every time he saw it that had his heart beating against his ribs.
Dei’s smile softened. “What are you thinking about?”
“Every time I see you, I can’t get over how gorgeous you are.” A very faint pink flush rose along the tops of Dei’s ears, then went splotchy over his cheeks. “Flatterer. I’m a damn mess.” Felix shook his head. “I don’t see it that way.”
Felix and Dei love each other so much it makes me want to cry. The disability rep was amazing. Everything about this was just simply so heartwarming. I loved how they slowly and hard fell for each other. Ahhh it warmed my heart 🥹
“I like you, darlin’. You’re somethin’ special.”
“You keep saying that, but I’m really not,” Felix muttered.
Dei just shook his head and took down the taco in two bites before taking a long drink. “Honey, do not get me started. I might never stop, and then where would we be?”
December 27, 2023
For some reason I though this was Book 1 in a spin-off of Iron & Works (which I haven't read). Ooops! Not sure why I started here but it's working for me.
January 18, 2025
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 3rd person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: fake relationship, friends to lovers, only one bed
Felix caught my interest in Heavy Hand, so I was really excited to finally get his and Deimos’ story!
Cover-Up was a story full of tenderness, sweetness and love. Felix and Dei was such a perfect pairing and I adored their mutual crushes. They were both very cute and a little awkward at first, pretty much oblivious about how the other one was feeling. I loved the friends to lovers slow burn romance, it was perfect for this couple and their story.
It was also quite an emotional read - as E.M. Lindsey’s stories tend to be, with both Felix and Dei having been through a lot and they still had their struggles. My heart ached for both of them throughout the story, and I was happy that they found comfort with each other. I really loved how respectful Felix and Dei were of each others needs and wants, and it was sweet to see them figure out their feelings and relationship together.
The found family feeling is strong in this series, and it’s just absolutely lovely to see how much the characters all care for each other. It was great to see some of Max and Jeremiah, as well as the other guys. Great representation and diversity as always, with characters that felt realistic and human.
Cover-Up was a fantastic addition to the Irons and Works series - Felix and Dei had my heart through the entire story! I’m really looking forward to more Key Largo stories, I love spending time in this world together with these characters!
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Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 3rd person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: fake relationship, friends to lovers, only one bed
Felix caught my interest in Heavy Hand, so I was really excited to finally get his and Deimos’ story!
Cover-Up was a story full of tenderness, sweetness and love. Felix and Dei was such a perfect pairing and I adored their mutual crushes. They were both very cute and a little awkward at first, pretty much oblivious about how the other one was feeling. I loved the friends to lovers slow burn romance, it was perfect for this couple and their story.
It was also quite an emotional read - as E.M. Lindsey’s stories tend to be, with both Felix and Dei having been through a lot and they still had their struggles. My heart ached for both of them throughout the story, and I was happy that they found comfort with each other. I really loved how respectful Felix and Dei were of each others needs and wants, and it was sweet to see them figure out their feelings and relationship together.
The found family feeling is strong in this series, and it’s just absolutely lovely to see how much the characters all care for each other. It was great to see some of Max and Jeremiah, as well as the other guys. Great representation and diversity as always, with characters that felt realistic and human.
Cover-Up was a fantastic addition to the Irons and Works series - Felix and Dei had my heart through the entire story! I’m really looking forward to more Key Largo stories, I love spending time in this world together with these characters!
-
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
September 29, 2023
Another amazing read by EM!
I love the Irons & Works series, and I love how EM sheds light on disabilities that aren’t commonly written about.
After an incident at his previous shop, Felix is left with holes in his memory and prosopagnosia (face blindness). Not only does he need alarms and reminders for his everyday routine, he also needs to remember the details of his friends since he can’t remember their faces. Though he does struggle, he has good friends, a good job, and he’s enjoying life in Key Largo. He’s also got a crush on his neighbor, no one needs to know that.
After losing his leg, arm, and eye while in the Marines, Dei is doing his best to live a full life. He’s a chef at Midnight Snack and he’s great at his job, but his family life is definitely a struggle and he’s trying his best to get through it. He’s sure he’ll be doing it alone, and that’s ok. He just wants to get through it.
I loved how Felix and Dei’s relationship progressed. They started in a crisis, then became friends when they got to know each other. There was always attraction there, but they’re both willing to move at the other’s pace. They’re incredibly supportive of each other, and get each other through some really tough times from the get go. I always love spending time in this world.
-Disability rep (mental and physical)
-Fake boyfriends
-Only one bed
-Neighbors to friends to lovers
I love the Irons & Works series, and I love how EM sheds light on disabilities that aren’t commonly written about.
After an incident at his previous shop, Felix is left with holes in his memory and prosopagnosia (face blindness). Not only does he need alarms and reminders for his everyday routine, he also needs to remember the details of his friends since he can’t remember their faces. Though he does struggle, he has good friends, a good job, and he’s enjoying life in Key Largo. He’s also got a crush on his neighbor, no one needs to know that.
After losing his leg, arm, and eye while in the Marines, Dei is doing his best to live a full life. He’s a chef at Midnight Snack and he’s great at his job, but his family life is definitely a struggle and he’s trying his best to get through it. He’s sure he’ll be doing it alone, and that’s ok. He just wants to get through it.
I loved how Felix and Dei’s relationship progressed. They started in a crisis, then became friends when they got to know each other. There was always attraction there, but they’re both willing to move at the other’s pace. They’re incredibly supportive of each other, and get each other through some really tough times from the get go. I always love spending time in this world.
-Disability rep (mental and physical)
-Fake boyfriends
-Only one bed
-Neighbors to friends to lovers
January 23, 2024
I think I’ve just turned into a grump who complains about everything. Or I’m just losing enjoyment when it comes to reading, it’s always feeling like it’s never good enough while being too much at the same time.
I kinda felt like Dei was hot/cold here, lots of flirting and then they share a kiss and he says he’s not ready? Avoids Felix for two weeks then pops back up when Felix has gotten bad news about his Grammy passing away and offers to be his fake boyfriend cos he doesn’t like the idea of anyone else being his man 🤔
Adding the fake boyfriend/only one bed tropes just felt super unnecessary and although the characters were likable enough,I am starting to feel like the characters are just one dimensional in that their whole personality is their profession and disability. Sure the disability rep is always done well but there’s also so much drama that it really takes over the story and minimizes the romance for me 🙈
I kinda felt like Dei was hot/cold here, lots of flirting and then they share a kiss and he says he’s not ready? Avoids Felix for two weeks then pops back up when Felix has gotten bad news about his Grammy passing away and offers to be his fake boyfriend cos he doesn’t like the idea of anyone else being his man 🤔
Adding the fake boyfriend/only one bed tropes just felt super unnecessary and although the characters were likable enough,I am starting to feel like the characters are just one dimensional in that their whole personality is their profession and disability. Sure the disability rep is always done well but there’s also so much drama that it really takes over the story and minimizes the romance for me 🙈
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2023
I've been wanting Felix's story for a long time, his character always caught my interest. When I read Max's story Felix was a character that was a primary side character, so Max's book gave us a little insight to the man. I was eagerly awaiting the day that Felix would get his own book, and that day is finally here!!! I really liked this book although it was hard reading about the struggles both of these men go through. It was difficult for me to read because I have struggled with my body too, and there are things that can't be changed, they just become something you have to learn to live with. Both Felix and Deimos struggle with their bodies; Felix struggles with his brain, and Deimos struggles with a war riddled body.
One thing you can always count on with EM's writing is their way to evoke emotions out of their readers. And to make characters not just realistic and relatable, but they also take their time to research whatever it is that they choose to write about. Which is something I really appreciate.
When you read EM's story you are taken on an emotional journey with these characters, and I can guarantee you, you'll find something/someone to relate to within their books.
Felix and Deimos didn't have an insta-love moment, nor was there spicy scenes right away. Their feelings grew gradually, they gave each other time to process what they were feeling and thinking, and let each other have the time they needed. I adored how Deimos asked for time before they engaged in spicy times, and how Felix not only accepted that, but he supported and honored that as well.
All of the side characters from the tattoo shop was so amazing to see again. I don't think I'll ever get tired of these characters, not when there is always so much to learn.
This book was poignant and really well written. This had fantastic back ground detail, exception main characters along with fantastic side characters. You could tell how thought-out this book was when you read it. At times you'll want to give Deimos a bit of a shake, but for the most part you'll just be cheering these men on, And want them to make their relationship work. This book truly was a fantastic read! Please go do yourself a favor and get a copy today!
One thing you can always count on with EM's writing is their way to evoke emotions out of their readers. And to make characters not just realistic and relatable, but they also take their time to research whatever it is that they choose to write about. Which is something I really appreciate.
When you read EM's story you are taken on an emotional journey with these characters, and I can guarantee you, you'll find something/someone to relate to within their books.
Felix and Deimos didn't have an insta-love moment, nor was there spicy scenes right away. Their feelings grew gradually, they gave each other time to process what they were feeling and thinking, and let each other have the time they needed. I adored how Deimos asked for time before they engaged in spicy times, and how Felix not only accepted that, but he supported and honored that as well.
All of the side characters from the tattoo shop was so amazing to see again. I don't think I'll ever get tired of these characters, not when there is always so much to learn.
This book was poignant and really well written. This had fantastic back ground detail, exception main characters along with fantastic side characters. You could tell how thought-out this book was when you read it. At times you'll want to give Deimos a bit of a shake, but for the most part you'll just be cheering these men on, And want them to make their relationship work. This book truly was a fantastic read! Please go do yourself a favor and get a copy today!
May 11, 2024
4.5 stars
Wait - I loved this.
One MC is a chef and uses cooking to show that he cares. We love attention to yummy food. The other MC is a tattoo artist at Irons & Works. We have neighbors. We have "I've had such a crush on him for forever, but have my own shit going on" pining from both MCs. We have sugar, baby, shug nicknames/terms of endearments. There's some light d/s dynamics during sex. We have pierced tongues, nipples and a belly button. We have tattoos, duh.
There's shenanigans with the friend group. We have fake dating and spending a week together in a house with only one bed. There's family drama on both sides (see CWs). We also have EML's signature of including diversely disabled MCs. One MC is a veteran, who lost an arm, leg, eye, and some of his genitals. The other MC has epilepsy, face blindness, and regular seizures. I loved how much care went into creating dynamic and unique leads.
There's a bit of miscommunication/conflict near the 90% mark that turns cheesy, but I'll take it.
Might be my favorite of the series? It's been a minute since I've read the original books. I really liked the chemistry and relationship for these two.
Check out CWs - there's ableist & homophobic family members who want to put one MC in a conservatorship. There's a very young mom with Alzheimer's and dealing with medical stress and hospice. There's a sister dealing with addiction and mental health struggles, and a physically abusive ex-boyfriend.
Wait - I loved this.
One MC is a chef and uses cooking to show that he cares. We love attention to yummy food. The other MC is a tattoo artist at Irons & Works. We have neighbors. We have "I've had such a crush on him for forever, but have my own shit going on" pining from both MCs. We have sugar, baby, shug nicknames/terms of endearments. There's some light d/s dynamics during sex. We have pierced tongues, nipples and a belly button. We have tattoos, duh.
There's shenanigans with the friend group. We have fake dating and spending a week together in a house with only one bed. There's family drama on both sides (see CWs). We also have EML's signature of including diversely disabled MCs. One MC is a veteran, who lost an arm, leg, eye, and some of his genitals. The other MC has epilepsy, face blindness, and regular seizures. I loved how much care went into creating dynamic and unique leads.
There's a bit of miscommunication/conflict near the 90% mark that turns cheesy, but I'll take it.
Might be my favorite of the series? It's been a minute since I've read the original books. I really liked the chemistry and relationship for these two.
Check out CWs - there's ableist & homophobic family members who want to put one MC in a conservatorship. There's a very young mom with Alzheimer's and dealing with medical stress and hospice. There's a sister dealing with addiction and mental health struggles, and a physically abusive ex-boyfriend.
September 28, 2023
2.5 stars
I don’t know if I really like the whole ‘fake dating’ trope… and whilst this wasn’t exactly a large part of the story it kinda put me off it. Just didn’t enjoy this as much as I did the first two books. The diversity and representation was great as per usual!
I don’t know if I really like the whole ‘fake dating’ trope… and whilst this wasn’t exactly a large part of the story it kinda put me off it. Just didn’t enjoy this as much as I did the first two books. The diversity and representation was great as per usual!
September 27, 2023
Great story
I enjoyed this sweet story of accepting yourself and loving yourself no matter what. Felix struggled with that due to his mom always harassing him and because of his seizures. I felt bad for him. Deimos was sweet and I liked his confidence in himself.
I enjoyed this sweet story of accepting yourself and loving yourself no matter what. Felix struggled with that due to his mom always harassing him and because of his seizures. I felt bad for him. Deimos was sweet and I liked his confidence in himself.
November 20, 2023
I was really looking forward to reading this book. The last two books have been okay so I was really hoping this one would be better. After reading the teasers for this I knew I had to read it and it didn’t disappoint.
I know one of the things this book is described as being friends to lovers but I don’t agree with that. Yes, they both knew of each other and both had major crushes but never really had a long term friendship. They went from finally being able to talk to each other and opening up to confessing that they both liked each other even though at the time Dei wasn’t ready to move forward.
Right away you can tell how sweet Dei is and how he’s sweet on Felix. Always calling him pet names and always being there for him, reassuring that everything is okay and that he’s fine and perfect just the way he is. I did like how Dei was honest with Felix about where he was at and that he needed time to be ready to really date him.
I did enjoy the fake boyfriend aspect in the middle of the book. In most other books the fake boyfriend trope sometimes feels unnecessary but in this book it feels just right. Felix has such a bad family background that when he goes home for a event it was needed that he shows up with someone who really loves and cares about him towards his family since they believe due to his disability that nobody will ever want him and thankfully he does show them and more. Seeing Felix go off and stand up for himself against them was so perfect.
Watching Felix go off on his mom and finally stand up against her was literally everything. After everything he went through with his family it was so nice to see him stand up and demand to be treated the way he should have always been treated from the very beginning. I’m so happy that he has his family with the tattoo shop and now Dei.
I really appreciate how the author wrote the first immense (spicy) scene with Felix and Dei. I loved how it wasn’t all perfect and they had to talk about things and be open and valuable with each other. It was really special and felt so real.
One of the things I do wish we got more of is little moments with just them building and getting to know each other more. These books always feel Insta love to me and on some level is. But the moments we do get are really sweet and nice and I love seeing them together. They both give each other something that the other person was missing from their lives.
Once again the disability represented in this book is seriously top tier. In my opinion it’s done really well and respectfully.
Overall this was a really good book and definitely my favorite out of the Key Largo series. Dei and Felix was the sweetest and seriously so perfect for each other. I really did enjoy my time reading this book and can’t wait for more in this series.
I know one of the things this book is described as being friends to lovers but I don’t agree with that. Yes, they both knew of each other and both had major crushes but never really had a long term friendship. They went from finally being able to talk to each other and opening up to confessing that they both liked each other even though at the time Dei wasn’t ready to move forward.
Right away you can tell how sweet Dei is and how he’s sweet on Felix. Always calling him pet names and always being there for him, reassuring that everything is okay and that he’s fine and perfect just the way he is. I did like how Dei was honest with Felix about where he was at and that he needed time to be ready to really date him.
I did enjoy the fake boyfriend aspect in the middle of the book. In most other books the fake boyfriend trope sometimes feels unnecessary but in this book it feels just right. Felix has such a bad family background that when he goes home for a event it was needed that he shows up with someone who really loves and cares about him towards his family since they believe due to his disability that nobody will ever want him and thankfully he does show them and more. Seeing Felix go off and stand up for himself against them was so perfect.
Watching Felix go off on his mom and finally stand up against her was literally everything. After everything he went through with his family it was so nice to see him stand up and demand to be treated the way he should have always been treated from the very beginning. I’m so happy that he has his family with the tattoo shop and now Dei.
I really appreciate how the author wrote the first immense (spicy) scene with Felix and Dei. I loved how it wasn’t all perfect and they had to talk about things and be open and valuable with each other. It was really special and felt so real.
One of the things I do wish we got more of is little moments with just them building and getting to know each other more. These books always feel Insta love to me and on some level is. But the moments we do get are really sweet and nice and I love seeing them together. They both give each other something that the other person was missing from their lives.
Once again the disability represented in this book is seriously top tier. In my opinion it’s done really well and respectfully.
Overall this was a really good book and definitely my favorite out of the Key Largo series. Dei and Felix was the sweetest and seriously so perfect for each other. I really did enjoy my time reading this book and can’t wait for more in this series.
September 24, 2023
One of the overarching themes of this series, whether in the stories set back in Colorado or the newer ones in Florida, has been the concept of found/adopted family. That doesn’t necessarily mean, however, that all of the main characters have no family except those of the other book characters. In this title, there is plenty of family drama on both sides, which Lindsey nicely balances between family slipping away and attempting to cling too close.
I was immediately intrigued by the characters of Deimos and Felix when they were introduced previously in the series. I was only more interested in how their stories would unfold when I later found out Lindsey planned to make them a couple. Another way the author nicely contrasts these characters is the balance between brain and body issues and how visible versus invisible disabilities are interpreted and reacted to by the general public. The author, as always, portrays these elements with both knowledge and sensitivity, and one thing that always attracts me about Lindsey’s writing is how they incorporate disabilities without centering either the entire plot or complete characterization on them. Deimos and Felix are acquaintances first and already aware of each other’s general circumstances before the story begins; thus, their genuine friendship (and then more) develops naturally despite, instead of because, external issues.
The external family issues for both characters add interesting layers of external conflict but never detract from the heart of the relationship arc. The initial flirting as they grow more comfortable in each other presence is unexpectedly hot. Their honesty with each other is even hotter, when they lay their cards on the table before taking assumptions too far. At least until the dark moment, which isn’t about either man lacking in communication but instead having to adapt to someone in their corner who wants to be a supportive, equal partner.
This book is about how quiet victories can be as cathartic as dramatic showdowns, along with how physical and mental difficulties do not necessarily limit the possibility of a happily ever after. This romance was as satisfying as I could have wanted for these fascinating characters, and once again, I leave the Irons and Works family already looking forward to my next visit.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
I was immediately intrigued by the characters of Deimos and Felix when they were introduced previously in the series. I was only more interested in how their stories would unfold when I later found out Lindsey planned to make them a couple. Another way the author nicely contrasts these characters is the balance between brain and body issues and how visible versus invisible disabilities are interpreted and reacted to by the general public. The author, as always, portrays these elements with both knowledge and sensitivity, and one thing that always attracts me about Lindsey’s writing is how they incorporate disabilities without centering either the entire plot or complete characterization on them. Deimos and Felix are acquaintances first and already aware of each other’s general circumstances before the story begins; thus, their genuine friendship (and then more) develops naturally despite, instead of because, external issues.
The external family issues for both characters add interesting layers of external conflict but never detract from the heart of the relationship arc. The initial flirting as they grow more comfortable in each other presence is unexpectedly hot. Their honesty with each other is even hotter, when they lay their cards on the table before taking assumptions too far. At least until the dark moment, which isn’t about either man lacking in communication but instead having to adapt to someone in their corner who wants to be a supportive, equal partner.
This book is about how quiet victories can be as cathartic as dramatic showdowns, along with how physical and mental difficulties do not necessarily limit the possibility of a happily ever after. This romance was as satisfying as I could have wanted for these fascinating characters, and once again, I leave the Irons and Works family already looking forward to my next visit.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
September 24, 2023
E.M. Lindsey is an author I can rely on to create interesting flawed characters that I will love and care for. In Cover-Up, we get Felix and Deimos’ story. I absolutely adored Felix. He was just so precious and kind. Ever since his massive seizure, he has struggled with his memory and remembering faces (face blindness). Everyone at Irons and Works cares for him, but sometimes they treat him as unable to take care of himself. He struggles to maintain his independence while dealing with the effects of his seizure. Deimos was injured while on duty in the military and does not think anyone could love him for who he is. These two were perfection though there were times that I wanted to slap some sense into Dei. He would unintentionally hurt Felix because he was just so sure that Felix could never care for him. The glimpses of past characters like Jeremiah, Max, Paris, Tony, are all the things I love about this series. I am intrigued by Jamie and Eli (we get a glimpse of them in the last chapter or two) because it is clear that Jamie really cares for Eli. And ever with just that small glimpse, I already care about Jamie’s well-being. I am utterly amazed at how talented E.M. is in creating these characters. I also am dying for Tony’s story. I know he and Kat will welcome someone into their relationship and I am very excited about it. I cannot wait to see what happens next in Key Largo.
I received an ARC for my honest review
I received an ARC for my honest review
September 23, 2023
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It feels a little redundant to review an EM Lindsey book by saying they wrote an emotional story with two men who have been through so much, and face some really tough realities, because let's face it, that’s what they are known for. What they do best.
Cover-Up is a gorgeous story. Felix and Dei are just lovely. The hands they’ve been dealt are tough, and ongoing. Not only does Felix have to deal with face blindness and seizures, but his biological family is nothing short of terrible.
And Dei…he’s a vet who was nearly killed, his mother is in a care home, fading before his eyes, and his sister finds trouble a lot.
That seems like a heavy load, and it is, but these two together are really quite sweet. Despite the pining they do for one another, there’s is a slow burn. Building friendship and trust as they move towards love.
It’s so beautiful the way Dei wants to support and protect Felix when he has to go home to see his awful family. And Felix is so wonderful at making Dei feel comfortable and desired. They really are an irresistible pairing.
It feels a little redundant to review an EM Lindsey book by saying they wrote an emotional story with two men who have been through so much, and face some really tough realities, because let's face it, that’s what they are known for. What they do best.
Cover-Up is a gorgeous story. Felix and Dei are just lovely. The hands they’ve been dealt are tough, and ongoing. Not only does Felix have to deal with face blindness and seizures, but his biological family is nothing short of terrible.
And Dei…he’s a vet who was nearly killed, his mother is in a care home, fading before his eyes, and his sister finds trouble a lot.
That seems like a heavy load, and it is, but these two together are really quite sweet. Despite the pining they do for one another, there’s is a slow burn. Building friendship and trust as they move towards love.
It’s so beautiful the way Dei wants to support and protect Felix when he has to go home to see his awful family. And Felix is so wonderful at making Dei feel comfortable and desired. They really are an irresistible pairing.
September 27, 2023
I loved this story so much. Felix is such a sweetheart with a nightmare family he escaped from and I admit that during the whole story I was afraid that he would have to hire an attorney to prevent his horrible mother from trying to have him committed or have an conservatorship over him due to his epilepsy that caused his eventual face blindness and occasional gran Mal seizures. Deimos who had been seriously injured in the war and lost an arm and a leg and an eye and part of his penis but had adjusted incredibly and worked in the restaurant next door to the tattoo place that Felix worked in and the tragedy of his mother's early onset Alzheimers and his sister's severe addiction. They shouldn't work together but they do and Felix is learning to feel comfortable around him and Deimos finds himself falling in love. The scenes with Deimos's mother were painful and having a mother who had dementia and stopped talking before she went into the hospice for the last time I felt they had captured the pain and frustration of watching someone you love slowly die and they not recognizing you anymore. The relationship between Felix and Deimos had its ups and downs and you did want to shake Deimos a bit but in the end it worked out and it was wonderful.
October 5, 2023
Felix and Dei's story had its ups and downs, but I stayed invested all the way through the happy ending. Though these men had been aware of each other (and crushing on each other) for a while, it took Sofia's drunken night and crazy ex to fully bring them into contact. From that point on, it was all up to Felix and Dei to act on their feelings, but each man had deep insecurities to overcome before being ready for a relationship. For Dei, it was the physical scars left behind on his body, while for Felix it was the mental and emotional fears he carried from his past. It was hard to watch them struggle, but each day they spent together brought them closer and closer. Life certainly threw some curve balls at the two of them, and they didn't always react well in the face of them, but that's what made each of them feel deeply human in nature. It made sense to me that Dei and Felix would freak out a little when their relationship took a more serious turn or when things took a turn for the worse elsewhere in their lives, and what was more important was the way they tried to stay open and honest about what they were feeling. Sure, they had some fumbles and miscommunication, but those moments only highlighted how important their relationship was to the two of them. I loved how sweet the end of their story was, and it definitely felt like these guys were well on their way to a lasting love.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
September 21, 2023
God bless, E., such declarations of love you give us in Felix and Dei's HEA journey. Felix and Deimos, secondary characters in previous Key Largo books, get their romance in a pretty much low angst (within their relationship) story. They see each other as whole, as complete, sigh. The angst comes from external messes. Lord, their families. Felix's family is just a cluster of monsters. Dei loves his sister even with the trainwrecks and his sick mom so much, wanting to do right by them. And because it's E., we get peaks of the other couples from Irons and Works, best found family along with such a sense of place in their little world in south Florida. I want some of the cake! One of the things I like about this story is a couple of plotlines are left unresolved (not our boys!). Life rarely has everything resolved, all nice and tidy. Of course we get hints at at least two stories, both of which I know will be wonderful!
September 24, 2023
I've never been disappointed in a book by E.M. Lindsey. Cover-Up is the latest book set in Key Largo at the newest Irons and Works tattoo shop. Felix joined the shop from the west coast, needing to escape his toxic family. He suffers from epilepsy and after a grand mal one several years earlier, he now has face blindness and memory issues. He believes he's unlikely to find anyone because who wants to be see as a stranger every time their partner closes their eyes?
Deimos is ex-military who lost several limbs and an eye. He's made a good life for himself as head chef at a restaurant next door to Irons and Works and feels a strong attraction to Felix. He struggles with letting someone close to his damaged body. Who would want him? Deimos also has family troubles complicating his life.
Watching these two negotiate attraction and love and families is lovely. They both want what's best for the other person and sometimes struggle to be clear what they want themselves. They get their in the end and I'm happy with their HEA.
Deimos is ex-military who lost several limbs and an eye. He's made a good life for himself as head chef at a restaurant next door to Irons and Works and feels a strong attraction to Felix. He struggles with letting someone close to his damaged body. Who would want him? Deimos also has family troubles complicating his life.
Watching these two negotiate attraction and love and families is lovely. They both want what's best for the other person and sometimes struggle to be clear what they want themselves. They get their in the end and I'm happy with their HEA.
September 24, 2023
Sometimes I don’t find the astonishing amount of challenges that happen in this author’s books appealing: by their centring characters who are disabled, sometimes it feels a little too much like I’m reading as much about their disabilities as I am about their affections. It also can feel a little too obvious how it’s going to go.
This one gets the balance really right. I adore how both characters, but especially Felix, desperately reach out for the love they deserve together, and it’s charming how their foibles mesh.
I also had feared that the Horrible Family of Origin Subplot was going to be more all-consuming than I could deal with in practice, it pushed the plot forward without being the focus of the book.
More like this, please. These characters are lovely.
This one gets the balance really right. I adore how both characters, but especially Felix, desperately reach out for the love they deserve together, and it’s charming how their foibles mesh.
I also had feared that the Horrible Family of Origin Subplot was going to be more all-consuming than I could deal with in practice, it pushed the plot forward without being the focus of the book.
More like this, please. These characters are lovely.
October 9, 2023
Dei and Felix Forever!
I absolutely love the Irons and Works series; it's probably my favorite book series ever. And I love that EM Lindsey has so much creativity to keep writing complicated, beautiful, emotional, real stories about these great characters. I love that the world of Irons and Works keeps expanding, the same way a true found family does.
Dei and Felix are amazing together and as scared as they each are to let themselves be vulnerable and to fall for another human being, they support each other on the hardest as well as the most joyous days. As someone who is disabled and who has a partnership with another disabled person, it truly is a thing of magic when you find your people who understand and love you as you are.
I absolutely love the Irons and Works series; it's probably my favorite book series ever. And I love that EM Lindsey has so much creativity to keep writing complicated, beautiful, emotional, real stories about these great characters. I love that the world of Irons and Works keeps expanding, the same way a true found family does.
Dei and Felix are amazing together and as scared as they each are to let themselves be vulnerable and to fall for another human being, they support each other on the hardest as well as the most joyous days. As someone who is disabled and who has a partnership with another disabled person, it truly is a thing of magic when you find your people who understand and love you as you are.
March 21, 2024
Felix and Dei
The men of Irons and Works are back only this time Felix gets his HEA. Felix suffered from seizures that caused his his brain damage and he can't remember faces so his friends all wear different things so he can tell them apart. His mom was a different story and when he had to go back home for his Grammy funeral his crush agrees to go with him. Dei was a veteran that was injured that caused him to be missing his arm and leg and left him with scars. But loving someone was different to find until he meets Felix. Both men had to overcome their own problems to become together.
I sure hope there are more books in the series to get the rest of the men that worked at the tattoo shop their own stories.
The men of Irons and Works are back only this time Felix gets his HEA. Felix suffered from seizures that caused his his brain damage and he can't remember faces so his friends all wear different things so he can tell them apart. His mom was a different story and when he had to go back home for his Grammy funeral his crush agrees to go with him. Dei was a veteran that was injured that caused him to be missing his arm and leg and left him with scars. But loving someone was different to find until he meets Felix. Both men had to overcome their own problems to become together.
I sure hope there are more books in the series to get the rest of the men that worked at the tattoo shop their own stories.
September 24, 2023
This is such a fantastic series and this was a wonderful addition! Felix and Dei are amazing! They both have their own issues and it just breaks my heart but the friendships they have and their budding relationship is wonderful to see and makes me so happy! I love how they took their time to work through things and for the most part their communication was great. I absolutely loved how they supported each other! Always a joy to see the other characters in this series! A beautiful and well written story that takes you on an emotional roller coaster. Very enjoyable and I highly recommend. This is my honest opinion of this complimentary copy of this book
October 6, 2023
Beautiful as always
Something I appreciate about this whole series is how EM Lindsey manages to deal with the heavy topics and these characters whose struggles will never go away, but the story is never dragged down or overly sad. These men are imperfect and they're lives contain struggles. Nothing is ever miraculously fixed and their flaws remain, but their love story is always woven through beautifully and it always makes them see more beauty in the world around whatever struggles they live with. No matter the tension or the struggle, these books never fail to make me feel good inside. This one was certainly no exception.
Something I appreciate about this whole series is how EM Lindsey manages to deal with the heavy topics and these characters whose struggles will never go away, but the story is never dragged down or overly sad. These men are imperfect and they're lives contain struggles. Nothing is ever miraculously fixed and their flaws remain, but their love story is always woven through beautifully and it always makes them see more beauty in the world around whatever struggles they live with. No matter the tension or the struggle, these books never fail to make me feel good inside. This one was certainly no exception.
October 13, 2023
I love the way author Lindsey writes their characters; they are always complex characters that feel genuine and take you on an emotional journey through their story. Their books are, usually, fairly low-angst and never fluffy or surface-level stories. Rather, the characters slowly grow on you, and before you realise it, you are as in love with the MMCs as they are with each other!
The disability representation is, as always, incredibly well written and sensitively handled, without shying away from the incredible difficulties (both physically and emotionally) that come with living with a disability.
Felix and Demi are two wonderful characters that fully deserve their HEA, and it was fantastic to watch them work at getting there.
The disability representation is, as always, incredibly well written and sensitively handled, without shying away from the incredible difficulties (both physically and emotionally) that come with living with a disability.
Felix and Demi are two wonderful characters that fully deserve their HEA, and it was fantastic to watch them work at getting there.
September 25, 2023
Fitz and Dei
Oh my goodness, I really enjoyed this book. I really enjoy this author so dang much. Her pure ‘I don’t give a darn’ on what other people write that she writes more often then not about men who are disabled in some way or another and find their personal who may or may not be disabled. They aren’t gross or inhuman but beautiful people who have lives and want to find their person. These two found their personal in their struggles and hold each other. Just so heartfelt I just love it.
Oh my goodness, I really enjoyed this book. I really enjoy this author so dang much. Her pure ‘I don’t give a darn’ on what other people write that she writes more often then not about men who are disabled in some way or another and find their personal who may or may not be disabled. They aren’t gross or inhuman but beautiful people who have lives and want to find their person. These two found their personal in their struggles and hold each other. Just so heartfelt I just love it.
September 29, 2023
MEMORY DOES NOT EFFECT TRUE LOVE
I've been a fan of this series since I discovered book one and this book did not disappoint. Felix and Dei, they couldn't be any cuter. It is so refreshing that they both think they are broken in some way and don't deserve love, but they are like puzzle pieces. The fit together perfectly. I love the support Dei gives Felix without being overbearing and how Felix is able to constantly reassure Dei. These are two beautiful characters and there story was perfectly told.
I've been a fan of this series since I discovered book one and this book did not disappoint. Felix and Dei, they couldn't be any cuter. It is so refreshing that they both think they are broken in some way and don't deserve love, but they are like puzzle pieces. The fit together perfectly. I love the support Dei gives Felix without being overbearing and how Felix is able to constantly reassure Dei. These are two beautiful characters and there story was perfectly told.
January 4, 2024
The Iron & Works series by E.M. Lindsey is a must read for me. It took me a bit to get to this one as I had binged the original series and needed a step back before binging the Key Largo spin off.
E.M. writes relatable characters who are real. The situations feel lived in and insta-live isn’t a thing. Insta-attraction is, but that is a part of life so why wouldn’t it exist here.
This book features Felix and Deimos who have been introduced in the prior 2 books. I don’t want to spoil this but I seriously love them and their found family.
E.M. writes relatable characters who are real. The situations feel lived in and insta-live isn’t a thing. Insta-attraction is, but that is a part of life so why wouldn’t it exist here.
This book features Felix and Deimos who have been introduced in the prior 2 books. I don’t want to spoil this but I seriously love them and their found family.
May 6, 2025
It felt like a mess to read. I was kind of confused by Deimos, he was very sweet but then sort of not and then he has issues with conversion camps but that was literally never discussed at all? And the issues with his mom just kind of hung around there too? And his dumbass sister just kind of said ok I'm outtie five thousie and then was never mentioned again? Then Felix and Dei sort of fake dated but it didn't really feel like fake dating and then they were like okay we love each other let's date for real, but it wasn't satisfying because it never felt like fake dating in the first place?? The book just seemed to be going in a bunch of different directions and it never tied together.
September 20, 2023
I enjoyed this installment of Key Largo, Iron & Works. Dei & Felix are sweet and neither has had the courage to date after each of their incidents. Dei has a lot going on in his life and Felix holds himself back due to his face blindness and maybe not feeling worthy of love because of his family’s poor treatment. Together they become each other’s strength and find love. Love all they guys and hoping Tony makes his move to the Keys for semi-retirement.
September 24, 2023
I always know when I pick up a book by EM Lindsey that I’m in for an emotional story where I learn things from people that are different than me. The talent they have for writing differently abled people is unmatched and yet that isn’t the center of the journey. It’s the love, support and trust that’s built. Felix and Deimos are simply perfect together - loving, accepting and so incredibly sexy. Absolutely brilliant.
September 25, 2023
This book was sooo emotional! I really liked Felix and Dei's story. They're both struggling with their health, so much so that this is a slow burn, not an insta love, since the two of them needed the time to wrap their minds around their feelings, especially Dei. It features also the "only one bed" trope, which I adore.
And now let's wait for the next one!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.
And now let's wait for the next one!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.
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