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Intentions Duet #1
Bad Intentions
My name isn’t Logan Mitchell, but Marcus St. James doesn’t know that…
When I showed up at my roommate’s work party, the last thing I expected was to find a man straight out of my dreams. But when the crowd parted and the fates aligned, there he was, waiting for me. Marcus St. James, president of ENN WorldWide News.
Sexy and powerful, with a stare that could freeze you in place, Marcus was the perfect reward for securing a job at Mitchell & Madison, the best law firm in Chicago. To play with the big fish, however, one must become a big fish, and that’s where my little white lie began.
It was one night. I was never going to see him again, and from the second we spoke, I knew he was interested. It was there in his eyes, the same fire in my veins. It was there in his voice, whenever he said my name.
The only problem? It wasn’t my name, and now I wanted more—much more.
But how can anything good come out of something that started with such bad intentions?
Bad Intentions is the first book in the Intentions Duet.
When I showed up at my roommate’s work party, the last thing I expected was to find a man straight out of my dreams. But when the crowd parted and the fates aligned, there he was, waiting for me. Marcus St. James, president of ENN WorldWide News.
Sexy and powerful, with a stare that could freeze you in place, Marcus was the perfect reward for securing a job at Mitchell & Madison, the best law firm in Chicago. To play with the big fish, however, one must become a big fish, and that’s where my little white lie began.
It was one night. I was never going to see him again, and from the second we spoke, I knew he was interested. It was there in his eyes, the same fire in my veins. It was there in his voice, whenever he said my name.
The only problem? It wasn’t my name, and now I wanted more—much more.
But how can anything good come out of something that started with such bad intentions?
Bad Intentions is the first book in the Intentions Duet.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2021
455 people are currently reading
2326 people want to read
About the author
Ella Frank
88 books8,747 followersElla Frank is the USA Today Bestselling Author of the Temptation series, including Try, Take, and Trust and is the co-author of the fan-favorite Preslocke series. Her Prime Time series has been praised as “highly entertaining!” and “sexy as hell!”
A life-long fan of the romance genre, Ella writes contemporary and erotic fiction. Some of her favorite authors include Tiffany Reisz, Kresley Cole, Riley Hart, J.R. Ward, Erika Wilde, Gena Showalter, and Carly Philips.Ella is represented by:
Kimberly Brower
Brower Literary & Management
kimberly@browerliterary.com
A life-long fan of the romance genre, Ella writes contemporary and erotic fiction. Some of her favorite authors include Tiffany Reisz, Kresley Cole, Riley Hart, J.R. Ward, Erika Wilde, Gena Showalter, and Carly Philips.Ella is represented by:
Kimberly Brower
Brower Literary & Management
kimberly@browerliterary.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 654 reviews
May 10, 2021
Urg. I didn't want to like this one. But once again, I did.
I wanted to hate it. Because I HATE that Ella Frank drags her books out into multiple books with cliffhangerish endings that are so beyond annoying and eye-roll inducing.
I told myself I wasn't going to read this one until all books were out.
Generally, I do like most of Ella Frank's stuff. Occassionally, there will be a series where the characters just don't resonate with me (like the PrimeTime series - didn't care for Alexander and Sean).
But I really liked Marcus and Gabe in this one. Liked their chemistry. Liked their banter. Liked the age gap. Liked the steam.
So yeah, I'm invested. And waiting on pins and needles for book 2 like everyone else. Ugh, I even annoy myself.
I wanted to hate it. Because I HATE that Ella Frank drags her books out into multiple books with cliffhangerish endings that are so beyond annoying and eye-roll inducing.
I told myself I wasn't going to read this one until all books were out.
Generally, I do like most of Ella Frank's stuff. Occassionally, there will be a series where the characters just don't resonate with me (like the PrimeTime series - didn't care for Alexander and Sean).
But I really liked Marcus and Gabe in this one. Liked their chemistry. Liked their banter. Liked the age gap. Liked the steam.
So yeah, I'm invested. And waiting on pins and needles for book 2 like everyone else. Ugh, I even annoy myself.
Read
July 8, 2021DNF 65%
Just kill me now. 🔪😖🔫🩸
I kindly ask for an intervention next time you guys see me reading a book by this author.
Why do I keep doing this?
Have I changed this much?
Or perhaps Ella Frank did?
Pointless carry on at this point when I don't feel the chemistry between the MCs and the plot is not convincing me.
Just kill me now. 🔪😖🔫🩸
I kindly ask for an intervention next time you guys see me reading a book by this author.
Why do I keep doing this?
Have I changed this much?
Or perhaps Ella Frank did?
Pointless carry on at this point when I don't feel the chemistry between the MCs and the plot is not convincing me.
April 27, 2021
Ella Frank is back baby!! When I first discovered MM books last year (thanks Di) I never knew what kind of love affair I was starting. Ella Frank was one of the first authors I discovered and since then I have been reading pretty much everything she has written, especially the books in her Chicagoverse (Tate & Logan, Priest, Julien & Robbie, Xander & Sean) and now we get Marcus St. James & Gabriel!!
Gabe was just here to celebrate landing a job at Mitchell & Madison the best law firm in Chicago, but fate had other ideas for him in the form of Marcus St. James. His best friend and employee of ENN World Wide News warned him to stay away from Marcus but Gabe has never quite followed the rules when it comes to what he wants and Marcus is what he wants. For tonight, at least. Approaching the man in charge of one of the world’s leading news companies might be a bit intimidating to most but not to Gabe. He regrets nothing of the night spent with Marcus, except giving him a fake name and that name being his new boss, Logan Mitchell.
Marcus doesn't want to be at this party but as the man in charge of ENN World Wide News it is job. His plan is to make an appearance, give a quick speech and be out the door before anyone notices. That is until an unbelievably delicious young man approaches him and his plans for the night have now changed. Marcus is not one to hook up with a random stranger but that is exactly what he does and one night with the enticing man wasn't enough. Now, he can't get him out of his head but by a stroke of luck he comes face to face with the man again, but that man is not Logan Mitchell.
As Gabe comes up with a plan to keep his job at Mitchell and Madison, Marcus is planning what in store for the next week for Gabe. What was just supposed to be a week of payback for Gabe is becoming a lot more with feelings attached. Marcus doesn't have time to do relationships but there is something about Gabe that makes him not want to let the man go. A big news story, a new opportunity and everything that could have been for Gabe and Marcus seems impossible now.
Marcus was NOT my favorite guy from the Prime-Time series but leave it to Ella Frank to make me fall in love with the prickly bastard. The way he was with Gabe showed a whole new side to him I never could have expected, and I loved the way they complimented each other so well. From the start of this Chicagoverse of Ella Frank I always thought that Logan & Tate would forever have my heart, but I think Marcus and Gabe might have just stolen a huge part of it. Looking forward to book two where we find out how well Marcus and Gabe can learn how to navigate this relationship.
Gabe was just here to celebrate landing a job at Mitchell & Madison the best law firm in Chicago, but fate had other ideas for him in the form of Marcus St. James. His best friend and employee of ENN World Wide News warned him to stay away from Marcus but Gabe has never quite followed the rules when it comes to what he wants and Marcus is what he wants. For tonight, at least. Approaching the man in charge of one of the world’s leading news companies might be a bit intimidating to most but not to Gabe. He regrets nothing of the night spent with Marcus, except giving him a fake name and that name being his new boss, Logan Mitchell.
Marcus doesn't want to be at this party but as the man in charge of ENN World Wide News it is job. His plan is to make an appearance, give a quick speech and be out the door before anyone notices. That is until an unbelievably delicious young man approaches him and his plans for the night have now changed. Marcus is not one to hook up with a random stranger but that is exactly what he does and one night with the enticing man wasn't enough. Now, he can't get him out of his head but by a stroke of luck he comes face to face with the man again, but that man is not Logan Mitchell.
As Gabe comes up with a plan to keep his job at Mitchell and Madison, Marcus is planning what in store for the next week for Gabe. What was just supposed to be a week of payback for Gabe is becoming a lot more with feelings attached. Marcus doesn't have time to do relationships but there is something about Gabe that makes him not want to let the man go. A big news story, a new opportunity and everything that could have been for Gabe and Marcus seems impossible now.
Marcus was NOT my favorite guy from the Prime-Time series but leave it to Ella Frank to make me fall in love with the prickly bastard. The way he was with Gabe showed a whole new side to him I never could have expected, and I loved the way they complimented each other so well. From the start of this Chicagoverse of Ella Frank I always thought that Logan & Tate would forever have my heart, but I think Marcus and Gabe might have just stolen a huge part of it. Looking forward to book two where we find out how well Marcus and Gabe can learn how to navigate this relationship.
August 9, 2021
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*It's Not Bad*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
The book centers around Marcus St. James (42), president of ENN WorldWide News (Marcus is this author's Prime Time series' main character's boss) and Gabriel ‘Gabe’ Romero (22), works for Logan Mitchell as a his new personal assistant at Mitchell & Madison Attorneys at Law. Logan is the main character for this author's series Temptation. While we have met Marcus before, we have never met Gabe. Gabe is full of life, kind and doesn't take no for an answer. He actually reminded me a lot of Logan, just.. tamer. Marcus was hot to some degree but I felt a bit detached from him to be honest. Actually I felt like that with the book as well. That said, it was still an enjoyable read and I liked it, I did, I just... wanted more depth and I hated that it felt like insta-love. And while they did have major chemistry, something - for me - was missing in this story, and I can't quite put my finger to it. I think it's like this with all of Ella Frank's books... But it was good to see Tate and Logan again and I have to say that I was truly glad that . On to the next one.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book One
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Marcus St. James.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure... it's easy and fast forward.
Will I read this again in the future? - No, I don't think so.
Rating - 3 stars.
May 2, 2021
One of my easiest 5 stars. I just.. loved it. It push the right buttons for me. Marcus St. James and Gabe Romero in their weeklong shenanigans are dream. Marcus is a devoted workaholic but the moment Gabe, after posing as his lawyer boss, bursted through his doors everything went up to flames. Aaaaaannnddd everytime Gabe calls him “Mr. St. James” in this very flirtatious tone 🔥🔥🔥 and of course, it ended in a cliffhanger. I need the next one asap!!
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September 2, 2022
|| 2.0 star ||
This book wasn’t necessarily bad at what it was trying to do, it’s just that none of it was really a good fit with my preferences.
I’ve noticed before that this author’s writing style just does not work for me all that well. It has this certain empty quality to it that almost makes it impossible for me to connect with either the characters or the story.
The fact that sex seems to completely dominate the romance and overall plot is a big no for me as well. It was all rather repetitive and kind of bored me most of the time.
Gabe was generally a likable character with his sunshiny confidence, while Marcus was very classically broody and grumpy. It was a nice dynamic in theory, but the execution was nothing to write home about. I didn’t much care for it.
The only thing I can truly say I loved in this book was whenever Marcus was being obsessed with Gabe’s gorgeousness and infectious charm: I always love it when the grump is being adoring. Gabe was also completely smitten with Marcus, though, so it wasn’t one-sided. Gabe was actually much more assertive in making Marcus his, which I would have preferred to be the other way around.
Anyway, all in all, this book wasn’t anything special and it didn’t hold my interest all that much. I didn’t hate it, but I didn’t really enjoy it either.
Also, can we talk about this guy on the cover? Because he is so fucking hot, I literally can’t. He kind of reminds me of Matthew Daddario, but is somehow even more handsome. If this is what Gabe is supposed to look like in the book then I can see why Marcus was obsessed with him after only one single glance, because um.. Same.
This book wasn’t necessarily bad at what it was trying to do, it’s just that none of it was really a good fit with my preferences.
I’ve noticed before that this author’s writing style just does not work for me all that well. It has this certain empty quality to it that almost makes it impossible for me to connect with either the characters or the story.
The fact that sex seems to completely dominate the romance and overall plot is a big no for me as well. It was all rather repetitive and kind of bored me most of the time.
Gabe was generally a likable character with his sunshiny confidence, while Marcus was very classically broody and grumpy. It was a nice dynamic in theory, but the execution was nothing to write home about. I didn’t much care for it.
The only thing I can truly say I loved in this book was whenever Marcus was being obsessed with Gabe’s gorgeousness and infectious charm: I always love it when the grump is being adoring. Gabe was also completely smitten with Marcus, though, so it wasn’t one-sided. Gabe was actually much more assertive in making Marcus his, which I would have preferred to be the other way around.
Anyway, all in all, this book wasn’t anything special and it didn’t hold my interest all that much. I didn’t hate it, but I didn’t really enjoy it either.
Also, can we talk about this guy on the cover? Because he is so fucking hot, I literally can’t. He kind of reminds me of Matthew Daddario, but is somehow even more handsome. If this is what Gabe is supposed to look like in the book then I can see why Marcus was obsessed with him after only one single glance, because um.. Same.
April 30, 2021
Ella Frank's Chicago-verse will always be one of my faves.
Mix that with a fake identity, an office romance, an age gap and Ella's trademark feels and steam... #Hooked!
What I loved:
- Marcus: I am a SUCKER for a grumpy cold MC who melts only for the other MC and Marcus was the epitome of that! He was utterly blindsided by Gabe. #OnlyForYou
- Gabe: He was a sweetheart who only wanted to put his life back together. Little did he know that that first step was at Marcus' door. #INeededYou
- The plot: It's about two men who never realized that their life was missing until they met each other. It revolves around them circling each other and eventually succumbing to the attraction, despite that little white lie. #Inevitable
- Angst-o-meter: Medium angst with a healthy dose of humor...#ThatCliffyThough
- Steam-o-meter: Trademark Ella's High Steam... #PantiesWentPoof
And can we Talk about the Logan and Tate cameos.... #Swoon!
And now we wait because Ella loves the cliffies!!!! #EpicSigh
Mix that with a fake identity, an office romance, an age gap and Ella's trademark feels and steam... #Hooked!
What I loved:
- Marcus: I am a SUCKER for a grumpy cold MC who melts only for the other MC and Marcus was the epitome of that! He was utterly blindsided by Gabe. #OnlyForYou
- Gabe: He was a sweetheart who only wanted to put his life back together. Little did he know that that first step was at Marcus' door. #INeededYou
- The plot: It's about two men who never realized that their life was missing until they met each other. It revolves around them circling each other and eventually succumbing to the attraction, despite that little white lie. #Inevitable
- Angst-o-meter: Medium angst with a healthy dose of humor...#ThatCliffyThough
- Steam-o-meter: Trademark Ella's High Steam... #PantiesWentPoof
And can we Talk about the Logan and Tate cameos.... #Swoon!
And now we wait because Ella loves the cliffies!!!! #EpicSigh
May 1, 2023
2.5** annoyed and bored stars
What I learned (again): I really don’t need Tim Paige reading to me in my life. I dnf’d this book/audio the first time I picked it up but I was craving a bit of Aiden Snow in my ears. Gawd I love his voice and performances!! 🫠 Pity it was a dual narration, tho.
But don’t get me wrong. Aiden’s narration didn’t make this book any better. Only a bit more bearable. It was somewhat entertaining overall but also annoying and the storytelling lame. And God, all the dick/cock-throbbing lines threw me off somehow. These were all non-sex related moments. I was honestly a bit grossed out by their horniness.
all before I even hit the 50% mark of the book. As if their dicks had complete mind of their own.
summary:
What I liked:
✓ Aiden Snow narrating
✓ the premise / story idea
✓ the night at the symphony
What I didn’t like:
✗ Tim Page narrating
✗ the execution of the premise
✗ the throbbing dicks
✗ that everything was sexual
✗ the ridiculous and unnecessarily dramatic cliffhanger *lmfao
I’m not sure whether or not I’ll go for the second book, even tho the audio is for free for me as well. I don’t care for Gabe’s and Marcus’ story AT ALL. I really better should’ve dnf’d all over again.
*this audio was free with my audible subscription
***************
Intentions Duet:
Book 1 - Bad Intentions - 2.5 stars
Book 2 - Good Intentions
What I learned (again): I really don’t need Tim Paige reading to me in my life. I dnf’d this book/audio the first time I picked it up but I was craving a bit of Aiden Snow in my ears. Gawd I love his voice and performances!! 🫠 Pity it was a dual narration, tho.
But don’t get me wrong. Aiden’s narration didn’t make this book any better. Only a bit more bearable. It was somewhat entertaining overall but also annoying and the storytelling lame. And God, all the dick/cock-throbbing lines threw me off somehow. These were all non-sex related moments. I was honestly a bit grossed out by their horniness.
As I got to my feet and [Gabe]’s eyes swept over me, my cock made it crystal clear which one of those two categories it put this man in.
****
That sounded more like a threat than a goodbye, and my body was all about it, my dick throbbing at the idea of seeing him again […]
****
The second he dipped his finger in that creamy drink and sucked it clean, my cock had decided it wanted to be next, […]
****
Gabe licked at his lower lip as his gaze roved down to my mouth, and my cock hardened.
****
This whole power conversation had me reaching under the desk and pressing the heel of my hand against my eager dick.
****
He smirked, and my dick stiffened at the arrogant expression, […]
****
“Where would you like me?” he said, and my cock had several suggestions about that.
all before I even hit the 50% mark of the book. As if their dicks had complete mind of their own.
summary:
What I liked:
✓ Aiden Snow narrating
✓ the premise / story idea
✓ the night at the symphony
What I didn’t like:
✗ Tim Page narrating
✗ the execution of the premise
✗ the throbbing dicks
✗ that everything was sexual
✗ the ridiculous and unnecessarily dramatic cliffhanger *lmfao
I’m not sure whether or not I’ll go for the second book, even tho the audio is for free for me as well. I don’t care for Gabe’s and Marcus’ story AT ALL. I really better should’ve dnf’d all over again.
*this audio was free with my audible subscription
***************
Intentions Duet:
Book 1 - Bad Intentions - 2.5 stars
Book 2 - Good Intentions
April 28, 2021
can i tell you how much i HATE the fact that Ella Frank extends her series over atleast 3 books! Like why! this would have been so much better as a stand-alone. It had 40 chapters of sex and no plot.
story: Believing that Marcus is wayy out of his league, Gabe fakes his identity thinking his night with Marcus would just be one night. that is, until he bumps into him at work the next day and things didn't go all too well. Logan Mitchell ( ahhh i'm screaming ) his boss and the person whose identity Gabe stole, asks him to make amends as to not mess up their business deal. And that's how Gabe ends up being at Marcus' beck and call and staying the weekend at his place.
The word that comes to mind whenever I think about you is…sexy.
“So damn sexy. And us together? We’re hot as hell. Admit it.”
“Admit it,” he said again. “Admit how hot we are together. We all but set that studio on
fire that night. God, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten off to that.”
Ella Frank really got the hang of writing up arrogant characters. Gabe , honestly, reminded me of Logan. He was arrogant, persuasive and charming. While Marcus was cold and broody and rigid.
This book was pretty much identical to Try. >>
Try
It had very little plot or content. We learn basically nothing about either of the characters and we're just waiting for the bomb to explode in the end, just like her other books. Despite that, their banter was fun and the characters were humorous and easy to like. so i would recommend this if you were just looking for an easy and fun read. Like the equivalent of background or elevator music. Something to have just so you wouldn't die of boredom
story: Believing that Marcus is wayy out of his league, Gabe fakes his identity thinking his night with Marcus would just be one night. that is, until he bumps into him at work the next day and things didn't go all too well. Logan Mitchell ( ahhh i'm screaming ) his boss and the person whose identity Gabe stole, asks him to make amends as to not mess up their business deal. And that's how Gabe ends up being at Marcus' beck and call and staying the weekend at his place.
The word that comes to mind whenever I think about you is…sexy.
“So damn sexy. And us together? We’re hot as hell. Admit it.”
“Admit it,” he said again. “Admit how hot we are together. We all but set that studio on
fire that night. God, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten off to that.”
Ella Frank really got the hang of writing up arrogant characters. Gabe , honestly, reminded me of Logan. He was arrogant, persuasive and charming. While Marcus was cold and broody and rigid.
This book was pretty much identical to Try. >>
Try
It had very little plot or content. We learn basically nothing about either of the characters and we're just waiting for the bomb to explode in the end, just like her other books. Despite that, their banter was fun and the characters were humorous and easy to like. so i would recommend this if you were just looking for an easy and fun read. Like the equivalent of background or elevator music. Something to have just so you wouldn't die of boredom
June 28, 2021
"ONE OF MY favorite things in life was a first kiss. There was something so special about them. Something so telling about the kind of experience you were about to have, and judging by this one, I was in for a hell of a ride."
Yep, Ella Frank does it again and writes a cracking addition to her 'Chicago-verse' series of books with Bad Intentions, which is book 1 of a duet. And thank goodness book 2 Good Intentions is out on 21 June because seriously, I need the second installment NOW!💙
Gabe and Marcus are right up there with some of my fave Ella Frank ships, Tate and Logan 🖤🖤 (who have cameos throughout this one) and Xander and Sean 💜💜 (ditto).
If age gap, one grumpy older MC, a fake identity, office romance and a whole lot of steam 🔥🔥🔥 is your thing, then Bad Intentions is the one-click for you.
Highly recommended ✨✨✨✨
Yep, Ella Frank does it again and writes a cracking addition to her 'Chicago-verse' series of books with Bad Intentions, which is book 1 of a duet. And thank goodness book 2 Good Intentions is out on 21 June because seriously, I need the second installment NOW!💙
Gabe and Marcus are right up there with some of my fave Ella Frank ships, Tate and Logan 🖤🖤 (who have cameos throughout this one) and Xander and Sean 💜💜 (ditto).
If age gap, one grumpy older MC, a fake identity, office romance and a whole lot of steam 🔥🔥🔥 is your thing, then Bad Intentions is the one-click for you.
Highly recommended ✨✨✨✨
April 26, 2021
This is definitely one of my favourite books from Ella but I was left frustrated by the ending even though I knew it was coming!
I just wanted to read more! More of oh so confident Gabe and more of utterly confused Marcus.
I use the word confused for Marcus because I love how he's been absolutely blindsided by the much younger man.
Gabe is a joy, he's not looking for anything other than a chance to put his life back on track when we meet him.
His friendship with Ryan (Alexander Thorne's PA from the Prime Time series) is the most solid thing he has.
Marcus is a workaholic, devoted to his news station and with no life outside of his occasional visits to the symphony
Both men aren't really aware of how they're missing something until their first explosive meeting.
Ella is so good at writing those first moments, the initial glance, the shocking electric current which flashes between them when their eyes meet, the heat of an instant attraction.
They're explosive together and the scene in the dark and deserted newsroom is one of her hottest yet 😛🥵💥
Everything seems like it's going to be a perfect one-off encounter...
If only Gabe hadn't told a little white lie.
What follows next is a delightful mix of humour, steaming chemistry, emotional tension and an unexpected connection which rocks them both.
I could have chucked my Kindle at the wall when I ran out of book because I want it ALL now but at least it's only a couple of months until the second half of the duet is out!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
I just wanted to read more! More of oh so confident Gabe and more of utterly confused Marcus.
I use the word confused for Marcus because I love how he's been absolutely blindsided by the much younger man.
Gabe is a joy, he's not looking for anything other than a chance to put his life back on track when we meet him.
His friendship with Ryan (Alexander Thorne's PA from the Prime Time series) is the most solid thing he has.
Marcus is a workaholic, devoted to his news station and with no life outside of his occasional visits to the symphony
Both men aren't really aware of how they're missing something until their first explosive meeting.
Ella is so good at writing those first moments, the initial glance, the shocking electric current which flashes between them when their eyes meet, the heat of an instant attraction.
They're explosive together and the scene in the dark and deserted newsroom is one of her hottest yet 😛🥵💥
Everything seems like it's going to be a perfect one-off encounter...
If only Gabe hadn't told a little white lie.
What follows next is a delightful mix of humour, steaming chemistry, emotional tension and an unexpected connection which rocks them both.
I could have chucked my Kindle at the wall when I ran out of book because I want it ALL now but at least it's only a couple of months until the second half of the duet is out!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
February 14, 2024
Reread/Relisten #2: February 2024
It was just as good to listen to as the first two times, while I might continue this duet, French Fancy by Lily Morton just came out on audio…. So we will see what I decide to do.
I might jump into book two after French Fancy !
Reread/Relisten #1: June 2022
Yes this book as as magical as the first time with the narrators doing a 5 star worthy performance!
On to book 2!
Original Read/Listen: December 2021
Audio: 5 stars Aiden Snow and Tim Paige did a killer performance!
Book: 3.5-4 stars
I read both books back to back so it felt like one long book which was enjoyable.
There are cameos from Logan and Tate and Priest, Julien, and Robbie and Alexander and Sean. I haven’t read any of their books but their cameos made me want to start asap.
There was little to no angst, yes there were “problems” that came up but they were resolved pretty fast which was nice!
Also the audiobooks were great!!
It was just as good to listen to as the first two times, while I might continue this duet, French Fancy by Lily Morton just came out on audio…. So we will see what I decide to do.
I might jump into book two after French Fancy !
Reread/Relisten #1: June 2022
Yes this book as as magical as the first time with the narrators doing a 5 star worthy performance!
On to book 2!
Original Read/Listen: December 2021
Audio: 5 stars Aiden Snow and Tim Paige did a killer performance!
Book: 3.5-4 stars
I read both books back to back so it felt like one long book which was enjoyable.
There are cameos from Logan and Tate and Priest, Julien, and Robbie and Alexander and Sean. I haven’t read any of their books but their cameos made me want to start asap.
There was little to no angst, yes there were “problems” that came up but they were resolved pretty fast which was nice!
Also the audiobooks were great!!
April 26, 2021
*** I received an eArc from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.***
This was another great addition to the amazing Ella Frank Chicagoverse. I absolutely fell in love with this story and its various tropes that perfectly encapsulated its two MCs. The tropes that I loved that were included are the grumpy/sunshine and age/gap. I was also pleasantly surprised with the more emotional moments with one MC's backstory that helped elevate their entire character.
I love part 1 of this duet. Both MCs have amazing chemistry that leaps off the page that leaves you hungry for more. Both MCs have character growth that will conclude in part 2.
I look forward to the HEA that both characters so desperately deserve.
This was another great addition to the amazing Ella Frank Chicagoverse. I absolutely fell in love with this story and its various tropes that perfectly encapsulated its two MCs. The tropes that I loved that were included are the grumpy/sunshine and age/gap. I was also pleasantly surprised with the more emotional moments with one MC's backstory that helped elevate their entire character.
I love part 1 of this duet. Both MCs have amazing chemistry that leaps off the page that leaves you hungry for more. Both MCs have character growth that will conclude in part 2.
I look forward to the HEA that both characters so desperately deserve.
April 28, 2021
This was so fun. I feel like it's been a hot minute since we've gotten a Frank book, so I was so excited to read this.
Set in the Try series world, we're focused on Marcus St. James, Alexander's boss from the Prime Time series, and Gabe, Logan's new assistant.
Marcus is the workaholic type, and thinks he's better off alone, and is much more of an introvert than anything. But when he is basically ordered by his boss - the owner of ENN News station, basically - to attend a work party function, he goes, even though he doesn't care for those things.
Gabe, who was just hired that day by Logan as his new assistant, is friends with Ryan, Alexander's assistant, and Ryan takes Gabe to this party as a sort of celebration.
When Gabe sees Marcus, all bets are off. He wants him, and he's going to try to have him. Although Ryan's words about Marcus being a "big fish" and Gabe being a "little fish" kind of get to Gabe, so much as when he approaches Marcus, he says that he's Logan Mitchel and that he's a lawyer.
In Gabe's defense, he thinks it'll only be for one night, one night of fun with a hot guy at a party. He isn't planning to ever see him again.
But see him he does, seeing as Marcus' boss is wanting to change lawyer companies and is thinking of going to Mitchell & Madison...where Gabe works, as Logan's assistant.
Thankfully the lie doesn't hold for long - I was worried about that, and I hate when lies take so long to get uncovered in books - and Marcus find out who who Gabe is fairly quickly into this.
I loved their chemistry from right off the bat. They just clicked so well together. Even though Marcus is 20 years Gabe's senior, when they're together it doesn't feel like that. They just work together, and seeing them fall in love over the course of this book was a treat.
The slight cliffhanger was a tad annoying, but not much more than that, because I know it'll be fine come the next book. I can't wait for the next one and more of these two and more of the sexy times to ensue :D.
Two big thumbs up from me, highly recommend this! These two just worked together, and the story was fun and interesting and flowed really well.
Can't wait for the next one! <3
Set in the Try series world, we're focused on Marcus St. James, Alexander's boss from the Prime Time series, and Gabe, Logan's new assistant.
Marcus is the workaholic type, and thinks he's better off alone, and is much more of an introvert than anything. But when he is basically ordered by his boss - the owner of ENN News station, basically - to attend a work party function, he goes, even though he doesn't care for those things.
Gabe, who was just hired that day by Logan as his new assistant, is friends with Ryan, Alexander's assistant, and Ryan takes Gabe to this party as a sort of celebration.
When Gabe sees Marcus, all bets are off. He wants him, and he's going to try to have him. Although Ryan's words about Marcus being a "big fish" and Gabe being a "little fish" kind of get to Gabe, so much as when he approaches Marcus, he says that he's Logan Mitchel and that he's a lawyer.
In Gabe's defense, he thinks it'll only be for one night, one night of fun with a hot guy at a party. He isn't planning to ever see him again.
But see him he does, seeing as Marcus' boss is wanting to change lawyer companies and is thinking of going to Mitchell & Madison...where Gabe works, as Logan's assistant.
Thankfully the lie doesn't hold for long - I was worried about that, and I hate when lies take so long to get uncovered in books - and Marcus find out who who Gabe is fairly quickly into this.
I loved their chemistry from right off the bat. They just clicked so well together. Even though Marcus is 20 years Gabe's senior, when they're together it doesn't feel like that. They just work together, and seeing them fall in love over the course of this book was a treat.
The slight cliffhanger was a tad annoying, but not much more than that, because I know it'll be fine come the next book. I can't wait for the next one and more of these two and more of the sexy times to ensue :D.
Two big thumbs up from me, highly recommend this! These two just worked together, and the story was fun and interesting and flowed really well.
Can't wait for the next one! <3
April 26, 2021
Marcus + Gabe #1
If you're weird like me ... you might want to read at least the Prime Time series before this duet - because that's where we meet Marcus for the first time. And then also the Temptation series - that's where we meet Logan - and it's the best series ever! BUT - this duet can be read as a complete standalone! 😊
Okay. Gabe. He just got a job as PA to Logan at the law firm. He's starting monday.
Marcus is the boss at ENN - the news channel.
Our darlings meet at a party and because Gabe instinctively knows that Marcus wouldn't be impressed by a lowly assistant - he pretends to be his boss. Super lawyer Logan Mitchell.
It doesn't take long for the truth to come out ... and that's where the real story begins. LOL!
Adorable!
I just loved those two guys!
Total opposites, but so very perfect for each other.
I'm not a huge fan of age-gap romances - and we have a huge gap here. But I just loved this story. Those two are just so adorable. Gabe is the perfect other half for Marcus. I just loved them.
Can't wait to see what will happen in the 2nd book!
GIMMEE!!!
As I always say with duets or a series - I would've preferred a single book - because my Bookalzheimer brain just can't remember things. But I hope I'll be able to keep those two darlings in my brain for long enough! 😁
The 2nd book will be out in June!
💜
💜
April 13, 2022
Sexy (so sexy) & Fun!
What an eargasm I had listening to this audiobook *fans self*!!
No real drama here except a contrived cliffhanger at the end. I didn’t really care, either, because this book was a perfect palate cleanser!
Already listening to the next book because “eargasms!”
My rec? This ain’t Logan and Tate, but the pair is fun!
What an eargasm I had listening to this audiobook *fans self*!!
No real drama here except a contrived cliffhanger at the end. I didn’t really care, either, because this book was a perfect palate cleanser!
Already listening to the next book because “eargasms!”
My rec? This ain’t Logan and Tate, but the pair is fun!
June 23, 2021
This book is wow!
Ella Frank is this talented author who can write incredible and real love stories; the chemistry is all over the book and is delivered so well that is giving me goosebumps at every page turn. This is the main reason I never miss any of Ella's books.
Cannot wait for the second book!
Ella Frank is this talented author who can write incredible and real love stories; the chemistry is all over the book and is delivered so well that is giving me goosebumps at every page turn. This is the main reason I never miss any of Ella's books.
Cannot wait for the second book!
September 23, 2021
I’m on a mission and the mission is called BASH.
Since Brooke’s Bash has now been incorporated into Ella’s Chicagoverse, well, I had a lot to catch up on and this duet was the last I needed to read to get me there.
This is exactly what I expect from Ella and as long as I keep that in mind I can enjoy the ride. She has a formula and again, if you know what to expect it should be an easy and hot read.
I like that she gave Marcus a book or two. I’m not one of those readers who feels like every person mentioned in a story needs their own book but sometimes they are interesting enough I can see it working. Like here. I do love a workaholic emotionless meany falling in love.
I’m not upset at all that Gabe works for Mitchell and Madison and Logan and Tate had a few cameos either, nope, not at all.
The setup is silly but like I said, you should know what to expect and just have fun.
That end though. Silly indeed.
On to the next because at this point how could I not?
Bash love, one more book and here I come!
Since Brooke’s Bash has now been incorporated into Ella’s Chicagoverse, well, I had a lot to catch up on and this duet was the last I needed to read to get me there.
This is exactly what I expect from Ella and as long as I keep that in mind I can enjoy the ride. She has a formula and again, if you know what to expect it should be an easy and hot read.
I like that she gave Marcus a book or two. I’m not one of those readers who feels like every person mentioned in a story needs their own book but sometimes they are interesting enough I can see it working. Like here. I do love a workaholic emotionless meany falling in love.
I’m not upset at all that Gabe works for Mitchell and Madison and Logan and Tate had a few cameos either, nope, not at all.
The setup is silly but like I said, you should know what to expect and just have fun.
That end though. Silly indeed.
On to the next because at this point how could I not?
Bash love, one more book and here I come!
April 27, 2021
Bold characters made me smile… a lot!
I have to start by saying I need the second book right now! This story made me smile and smile and smile. I laughed with the characters, cheered them on, and was prepared to fight for them… A little hard to do I know but I was ready…
One little white lie meant a relationship that started with so much heat I’m amazed it didn’t set the building on fire. I’m not one for any kind of lying or games, especially when I read, so I hesitated when I read the blurb. I trusted the author and wow, did she deliver a story that had me before ‘hello’… There was no malice or evil intent, instead it was a way for two to connect that wouldn’t have otherwise. That worked for them (and me)!
There was witty banter, hilarious scenes and an unabashed attraction that showed itself in smoldering glances. Non-Lucas was sweet with quick-off-the-draw comebacks and a gently/pushy way that was irresistible. He was genuine, and up-front (99% of the time) and as sexy as can be. He was beautiful, the whole package and Marcus felt it all… And Marcus? Well, he was the older, established, successful leader who was caught in a web he didn’t want to leave. There were so many reasons these two shouldn’t have worked but they so, so did…
There is a lot more to come as that cliffhanger means a bump in the road that I can’t wait to find out how they get through. And they will. They have to! ~Diane, 5 stars
I have to start by saying I need the second book right now! This story made me smile and smile and smile. I laughed with the characters, cheered them on, and was prepared to fight for them… A little hard to do I know but I was ready…
One little white lie meant a relationship that started with so much heat I’m amazed it didn’t set the building on fire. I’m not one for any kind of lying or games, especially when I read, so I hesitated when I read the blurb. I trusted the author and wow, did she deliver a story that had me before ‘hello’… There was no malice or evil intent, instead it was a way for two to connect that wouldn’t have otherwise. That worked for them (and me)!
There was witty banter, hilarious scenes and an unabashed attraction that showed itself in smoldering glances. Non-Lucas was sweet with quick-off-the-draw comebacks and a gently/pushy way that was irresistible. He was genuine, and up-front (99% of the time) and as sexy as can be. He was beautiful, the whole package and Marcus felt it all… And Marcus? Well, he was the older, established, successful leader who was caught in a web he didn’t want to leave. There were so many reasons these two shouldn’t have worked but they so, so did…
There is a lot more to come as that cliffhanger means a bump in the road that I can’t wait to find out how they get through. And they will. They have to! ~Diane, 5 stars
February 13, 2022
Aiden Snow & Tim Page 🎧🎧
Ok ok i liked this ill piece of hell yeah!! I loved Gabe. I liked the attitude he had it wasn't feminine at all but still gave me slutty twink vibes 😎😎.
But that ending thoooooooooo Marcus..... On that bullshyt 🎶on that dumb shyt🎶.
Let me go listen to Good Intentions 👍
God Aiden Snow can narrate the Hell out of a sex scene lordt..Help meeee!!!
Ok ok i liked this ill piece of hell yeah!! I loved Gabe. I liked the attitude he had it wasn't feminine at all but still gave me slutty twink vibes 😎😎.
But that ending thoooooooooo Marcus..... On that bullshyt 🎶on that dumb shyt🎶.
Let me go listen to Good Intentions 👍
God Aiden Snow can narrate the Hell out of a sex scene lordt..Help meeee!!!
June 21, 2021
gabe is definitely a new favourite of mine. such a sweetheart, he truly owns my heart ♥️ hope marcus gets his shit together PRONTO in the next book!
(also oh my god i can’t even begin to explain how good it felt to read about logan & tate again)
(also oh my god i can’t even begin to explain how good it felt to read about logan & tate again)
May 11, 2024
*** Update du 10/05/2024 ***
Relecture en audio et OMG qu'est-ce que c'était bon !
La voix d'Aiden Snow pour Marcus, graouuuu 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Ou comment couiner et swooner avec un casque sur les oreilles, en revisitant certaines scènes cultes et en tombant morte de swoon avec les caméos de Logan & Tate ...
4.5 ⭐
Woow woooot, Ella is back avec un nouveau M/M qui met le feu !!
On reste ici dans le "Chicagoverse" cher à cette autrice (et à mon coeur !), avec cette fois une duologie, consacrée à Marcus (rencontré la trilogie Prime time) et Gabriel, enfin Gabe pour les intimes, nouveau venu dans cet univers (mais on connaît son coloc et ami, qui n'est autre que l'assistant d'un des héros de la série "Prime Time" dont je parlais juste avant). Donc ouais, retour à Chicago ... et qui dit Chicago dit mon coeur qui bat à 10.000 à l'heure dès qu'il y a une infime chance pour que Logan ou Tate soit dans les parages, et alors là, s'il y a les deux, c'est la 'popped cherry' sur le cupcake ! intentions - Intentions - Tome 1 : Bad intentions de Ella Frank 2887121767
Bref ... Comme à son habitude, Ella Frank excelle dans l'art de la séduction version killer sexy au verbe qui te fait tomber raide morte. Les joutes verbales sont extras, il y a une tension sexuelle de dingue entre Marcus et Gabe dès le début, et leur histoire commence vraiment sur les chapeaux de roue, grâce à un petit mensonge. Enfin, quand je dis petit ... Parce que figurez-vous que Gabe se fait passer pour un autre (et quel autre !) pour attirer l'attention de Marcus, et ce mensonge, Gabe le paiera cher, et pas que du côté de Marcus ! Enfin bon, moi, à sa place, ça ne me dérangerait pas ... intentions - Intentions - Tome 1 : Bad intentions de Ella Frank 1817799047 Tout ce premier tome tourne autour de ce que devra faire Gabe pour se faire pardonner (ouh la bonne excuse !), et c'est ce qui donne l'occasion aux personnages de faire connaissance, en dépassant le stade du coup (vite fait) d'un soir. L'intrigue se déroule sur un laps de temps assez court (une petite semaine), ce qui peut quand même donner un petit côté précipité à l'histoire.
J'ai beaucoup ri, j'ai eu chaud, j'ai swooné, j'ai couiné de joie au vu des caméos royaux auxquels on a droit, bref, j'ai vraiment passé un super bon moment, comme Ella Frank sait si bien m'en faire vivre. On retrouve vraiment ici ce qui est SA signature, à savoir ces dialogues du tac au tac, avec des personnages qui veulent toujours avoir le dernier mot sur l'autre, qui font des sous entendus (ou qui y vont carrément frontalement) classés X ... en somme, tous ces dialogues sont des préliminaires torrides qui font monter de plus en plus la température et nous rendent au moins aussi dingues que les héros !
Relecture en audio et OMG qu'est-ce que c'était bon !
La voix d'Aiden Snow pour Marcus, graouuuu 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Ou comment couiner et swooner avec un casque sur les oreilles, en revisitant certaines scènes cultes et en tombant morte de swoon avec les caméos de Logan & Tate ...
4.5 ⭐
Woow woooot, Ella is back avec un nouveau M/M qui met le feu !!
On reste ici dans le "Chicagoverse" cher à cette autrice (et à mon coeur !), avec cette fois une duologie, consacrée à Marcus (rencontré la trilogie Prime time) et Gabriel, enfin Gabe pour les intimes, nouveau venu dans cet univers (mais on connaît son coloc et ami, qui n'est autre que l'assistant d'un des héros de la série "Prime Time" dont je parlais juste avant). Donc ouais, retour à Chicago ... et qui dit Chicago dit mon coeur qui bat à 10.000 à l'heure dès qu'il y a une infime chance pour que Logan ou Tate soit dans les parages, et alors là, s'il y a les deux, c'est la 'popped cherry' sur le cupcake ! intentions - Intentions - Tome 1 : Bad intentions de Ella Frank 2887121767
Bref ... Comme à son habitude, Ella Frank excelle dans l'art de la séduction version killer sexy au verbe qui te fait tomber raide morte. Les joutes verbales sont extras, il y a une tension sexuelle de dingue entre Marcus et Gabe dès le début, et leur histoire commence vraiment sur les chapeaux de roue, grâce à un petit mensonge. Enfin, quand je dis petit ... Parce que figurez-vous que Gabe se fait passer pour un autre (et quel autre !) pour attirer l'attention de Marcus, et ce mensonge, Gabe le paiera cher, et pas que du côté de Marcus ! Enfin bon, moi, à sa place, ça ne me dérangerait pas ... intentions - Intentions - Tome 1 : Bad intentions de Ella Frank 1817799047 Tout ce premier tome tourne autour de ce que devra faire Gabe pour se faire pardonner (ouh la bonne excuse !), et c'est ce qui donne l'occasion aux personnages de faire connaissance, en dépassant le stade du coup (vite fait) d'un soir. L'intrigue se déroule sur un laps de temps assez court (une petite semaine), ce qui peut quand même donner un petit côté précipité à l'histoire.
J'ai beaucoup ri, j'ai eu chaud, j'ai swooné, j'ai couiné de joie au vu des caméos royaux auxquels on a droit, bref, j'ai vraiment passé un super bon moment, comme Ella Frank sait si bien m'en faire vivre. On retrouve vraiment ici ce qui est SA signature, à savoir ces dialogues du tac au tac, avec des personnages qui veulent toujours avoir le dernier mot sur l'autre, qui font des sous entendus (ou qui y vont carrément frontalement) classés X ... en somme, tous ces dialogues sont des préliminaires torrides qui font monter de plus en plus la température et nous rendent au moins aussi dingues que les héros !
July 14, 2021
Overall book rating: 3
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 4
I'm just going to say a little something about both books. I read one and two. Yes
I don't know if it's my book slump or if I'm grumpy.
I did enjoy the read but man I got hella bored there for some time.
I'm not a fan of drama to the 9th but heaven knows this one could have
only done better with a little splash of drama.
I still don't understand the lying about his name because he's a little fish thing.
So help me, I might be behind or something but correct me if I'm wrong will you?
Marcus doesn't have a freaking clue who "Logan Mitchell" is when the lie is told...
Never heard of him, don't know he exists, yada yada...
So would it have made a difference then if he gave his own name and maybe, I don't
know? Just lied about what he does for a living?
Logan's name didn't get him any extra's did it?
Marcus was a pushover. I didn't get that either because he's not portrayed that way
but yet? Hmmm Action speaks loader than words.
I was kind of hoping for a little ruffle of feathers. The little tiff in-between was
also kind of ridiculous in my humble opinion. I'll not spoil it, if you read it you'll know.
Logan's reaction. Yeah jury is still out on that. I know he can be 'different" when he so
chooses but he does take his work seriously. I don't for some reason think it would
be THIS easy.. they have a law firm. They work with sensitive information. His NEW
PA just stole his identity and he's not even a little worried about his intentions or what
else he might "steal"? Yeah... no. Sorry, not realistic.
I just enjoyed it for a reality break. It didn't blow my mind, sorry.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 4
I'm just going to say a little something about both books. I read one and two. Yes
I don't know if it's my book slump or if I'm grumpy.
I did enjoy the read but man I got hella bored there for some time.
I'm not a fan of drama to the 9th but heaven knows this one could have
only done better with a little splash of drama.
I still don't understand the lying about his name because he's a little fish thing.
So help me, I might be behind or something but correct me if I'm wrong will you?
Marcus doesn't have a freaking clue who "Logan Mitchell" is when the lie is told...
Never heard of him, don't know he exists, yada yada...
So would it have made a difference then if he gave his own name and maybe, I don't
know? Just lied about what he does for a living?
Logan's name didn't get him any extra's did it?
Marcus was a pushover. I didn't get that either because he's not portrayed that way
but yet? Hmmm Action speaks loader than words.
I was kind of hoping for a little ruffle of feathers. The little tiff in-between was
also kind of ridiculous in my humble opinion. I'll not spoil it, if you read it you'll know.
Logan's reaction. Yeah jury is still out on that. I know he can be 'different" when he so
chooses but he does take his work seriously. I don't for some reason think it would
be THIS easy.. they have a law firm. They work with sensitive information. His NEW
PA just stole his identity and he's not even a little worried about his intentions or what
else he might "steal"? Yeah... no. Sorry, not realistic.
I just enjoyed it for a reality break. It didn't blow my mind, sorry.
May 2, 2021
My first official DNF Ella Frank book and that bites. Sigh.
When I was thinking about how to summarize my feelings about this book, one word came to mind: OFFENDED. You see, I am a tried and true, die-hard fan of Logan and Tate and for one of the main characters of this book to introduce himself as Logan...that’s not even a believable scenario (yes kids, even for fiction). In this world where Ella’s characters loosely co-exist, there’s absolutely no way that the other main character wouldn’t have known Logan’s name. I tried to go with the flow but after a few chapters, I was done.
When I was thinking about how to summarize my feelings about this book, one word came to mind: OFFENDED. You see, I am a tried and true, die-hard fan of Logan and Tate and for one of the main characters of this book to introduce himself as Logan...that’s not even a believable scenario (yes kids, even for fiction). In this world where Ella’s characters loosely co-exist, there’s absolutely no way that the other main character wouldn’t have known Logan’s name. I tried to go with the flow but after a few chapters, I was done.
July 13, 2021
DNF 67%
Urgh. I tried to make myself finish this one but my hours are precious to me at the moment and I was so bored.
I get the financial benefits of authors writing duets and trilogies but the substance should be there. This felt like a hollow shell when it could have been a whip-smart and sexy stand-alone novel. These guys are no Logan and Tate.
Urgh. I tried to make myself finish this one but my hours are precious to me at the moment and I was so bored.
I get the financial benefits of authors writing duets and trilogies but the substance should be there. This felt like a hollow shell when it could have been a whip-smart and sexy stand-alone novel. These guys are no Logan and Tate.
June 13, 2021
When you find yourself unable to stop the smile from spreading across your face as you’re reading a book, you know you’ve picked up a great read. And whoa, is Bad Intentions just that!
From the start, I adored Gabe and his crazy antics—and Logan’s total buy-in too. Trust me, you’re gonna need to read it for yourself to fully appreciate the levity Logan provides here!
And I adored Marcus too. I knew beneath the smoldering good looks was the heart of a man who just wanted to be loved for who he is, not for what he can do for someone.
Which is just what Gabe does—he helps loosen up Marcus quite a bit. And the fun, sexy, smart relationship that developed between them, even after their initial er, bump in the road, kept me turning the pages. I had to know just what was going to develop between these two.
And then Bad Intentions and the reality that it’s part one of a duet struck. So, now I wait for Good Intentions release so I can find out just how Gabe and Marcus make it through this bump in the road to their happily ever after. ~ Missy, 5 stars
From the start, I adored Gabe and his crazy antics—and Logan’s total buy-in too. Trust me, you’re gonna need to read it for yourself to fully appreciate the levity Logan provides here!
And I adored Marcus too. I knew beneath the smoldering good looks was the heart of a man who just wanted to be loved for who he is, not for what he can do for someone.
Which is just what Gabe does—he helps loosen up Marcus quite a bit. And the fun, sexy, smart relationship that developed between them, even after their initial er, bump in the road, kept me turning the pages. I had to know just what was going to develop between these two.
And then Bad Intentions and the reality that it’s part one of a duet struck. So, now I wait for Good Intentions release so I can find out just how Gabe and Marcus make it through this bump in the road to their happily ever after. ~ Missy, 5 stars
July 20, 2022
Marcus St. James is a character that we previously met in Ella's Frank's "Prime Time" series. When I read that he was featured in these two books, "Bad Intentions" and "Good Intentions", and mostly what we were going to hear was Marcus' story, I couldn't wait to read it. Marcus is dealing with Gabe, who he first meets at a party, and knows as Logan Mitchell. Gabe's larger than life personality and over the top arrogance gets him into some tight spots; but it's his tenacity that gets him out and puts him right where he wants to be. I can't say much about where he lands and how he gets there without giving a lot of good story line away. I'll just say that the story and the two guys were fun, really funny at times, and over- the- top steamy. I can’t wait to start book 2.
November 19, 2021
ETA: I just finished the audio of this and I loved it! I loved both narrators - I thought their voices were perfect for these two characters. It brought me back to Gabe and Marcus and how much I adored reading their stories. This is definitely one of my top favorite Ella couples!
YESSSSS! This is some of Ella at her very best - that explosive chemistry between two MCs, that initial burst of attraction and some push/pull and I absolutely LOVE this grumpy older man/younger unafraid to go for it younger man pairing in Marcus and Gabe.
I think some of it has to do with the fact that Gabe reminds me a lot of Logan - that attitude, swagger, and say-whatever-you're-thinking attitude. And I LOVE LOVE LOVE that he's working for Logan. (OMG there is a moment between Logan and Gabe that I literally LOL-ed at So yes, this is set within the Temptation/Men of Chicago 'verse - and we get to see Logan and Tate, who are just my favorite MM Couple. It's so wonderful to see them so happily married lol.
But back to Gabe and Marcus - the chemistry, the snark, all the dialogue going back and forth was just so, so well written. It's definitely one thing I love when Ella writes these explosive characters falling for each other. It's intense and quick but it also is written so that it feels real and right.
I love that we got to see that these two do have more in common than they originally thought, despite a 20 year age gap. Gabe is more mature than he lets on, and I love how perfect he is to bring Marcus out of his grumpy-workaholic self.
I CANNOT wait for the second book in this duology - for the first time in several series, I do think that these two totally deserve and warrant 2 books - there is lots of story left to tell for these two, I think! I CANNOT wait!
YESSSSS! This is some of Ella at her very best - that explosive chemistry between two MCs, that initial burst of attraction and some push/pull and I absolutely LOVE this grumpy older man/younger unafraid to go for it younger man pairing in Marcus and Gabe.
I think some of it has to do with the fact that Gabe reminds me a lot of Logan - that attitude, swagger, and say-whatever-you're-thinking attitude. And I LOVE LOVE LOVE that he's working for Logan. (OMG there is a moment between Logan and Gabe that I literally LOL-ed at So yes, this is set within the Temptation/Men of Chicago 'verse - and we get to see Logan and Tate, who are just my favorite MM Couple. It's so wonderful to see them so happily married lol.
But back to Gabe and Marcus - the chemistry, the snark, all the dialogue going back and forth was just so, so well written. It's definitely one thing I love when Ella writes these explosive characters falling for each other. It's intense and quick but it also is written so that it feels real and right.
I love that we got to see that these two do have more in common than they originally thought, despite a 20 year age gap. Gabe is more mature than he lets on, and I love how perfect he is to bring Marcus out of his grumpy-workaholic self.
I CANNOT wait for the second book in this duology - for the first time in several series, I do think that these two totally deserve and warrant 2 books - there is lots of story left to tell for these two, I think! I CANNOT wait!
February 10, 2023
4.5 Stars
OHHHHHHH I loved this!! While this does end on a cliffhanger, I wish it wasn’t split into two books. Gabe and Marcus has an explosive meeting. Not only is Marcus alpha af, he’s 20 years older than Gabe…. LOVE IT
OHHHHHHH I loved this!! While this does end on a cliffhanger, I wish it wasn’t split into two books. Gabe and Marcus has an explosive meeting. Not only is Marcus alpha af, he’s 20 years older than Gabe…. LOVE IT
December 9, 2021
Fun and enjoyable but too uneventful for my liking. Ella Frank is one of my go-to mm romance author. So kinda meh...
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