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Hazard and Somerset: Arrows in the Hand #1
Relative Justice
An impossible son. An impossible murder.
The honeymoon is definitely over.
When Emery Hazard and his husband, John-Henry Somerset, arrive home from their honeymoon, they’re shocked (understatement of the year) to find a boy waiting for them on their doorstep. Colt, fifteen and eager to pick a fight, claims to be Hazard’s son. It’s almost a relief, then, for Hazard and Somers to be called out to assist the Dore County Sheriff’s Department with what seems to be an impossible murder: a man has been found stabbed to death in a stretch of woods, and the only set of footprints in the soft ground belong to the victim.
The more Hazard and Somers learn about the dead man, the more confusing the case becomes. While searching his home, they discover a secure room from which several high-end computers have been stolen. A woman makes a daring theft as the house is being secured and escapes with valuable documents. The dead man’s neighbor, who found the body, is obviously lying about how she discovered him. And something very strange is going on with the victim’s sons, who are isolated at school and seem to have found their few friends through the youth group at a local church--and in a close relationship with the hip, young, attractive pastor.
An attempt on Colt’s life leaves Hazard’s (possible) son in the hospital. When Hazard and Somers learn that the attack came after Colt tried to investigate the murder on his own, they realize he is now in the killer’s crosshairs, and Hazard and Somers must race to uncover the truth. The results from the paternity test aren’t back yet, but father or not, Emery Hazard isn’t going to let anyone harm a child.
The honeymoon is definitely over.
When Emery Hazard and his husband, John-Henry Somerset, arrive home from their honeymoon, they’re shocked (understatement of the year) to find a boy waiting for them on their doorstep. Colt, fifteen and eager to pick a fight, claims to be Hazard’s son. It’s almost a relief, then, for Hazard and Somers to be called out to assist the Dore County Sheriff’s Department with what seems to be an impossible murder: a man has been found stabbed to death in a stretch of woods, and the only set of footprints in the soft ground belong to the victim.
The more Hazard and Somers learn about the dead man, the more confusing the case becomes. While searching his home, they discover a secure room from which several high-end computers have been stolen. A woman makes a daring theft as the house is being secured and escapes with valuable documents. The dead man’s neighbor, who found the body, is obviously lying about how she discovered him. And something very strange is going on with the victim’s sons, who are isolated at school and seem to have found their few friends through the youth group at a local church--and in a close relationship with the hip, young, attractive pastor.
An attempt on Colt’s life leaves Hazard’s (possible) son in the hospital. When Hazard and Somers learn that the attack came after Colt tried to investigate the murder on his own, they realize he is now in the killer’s crosshairs, and Hazard and Somers must race to uncover the truth. The results from the paternity test aren’t back yet, but father or not, Emery Hazard isn’t going to let anyone harm a child.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 5, 2021
99 people are currently reading
607 people want to read
About the author
Gregory Ashe
128 books1,750 followersI'm a long-time Midwesterner. I've lived in Chicago, Bloomington (IN), and Saint Louis, my current home. Aside from reading and writing (which take up a lot of my time), I'm an educator.
While I enjoy reading across many genres, my two main loves are mystery and speculative fiction. I used to keep a list of favorite books, but it changes so frequently that I've given up. I'm always looking for recommendations, though, so please drop me a line if you have something in mind!
My big goal right now is one day to be responsible enough to get a dog.
While I enjoy reading across many genres, my two main loves are mystery and speculative fiction. I used to keep a list of favorite books, but it changes so frequently that I've given up. I'm always looking for recommendations, though, so please drop me a line if you have something in mind!
My big goal right now is one day to be responsible enough to get a dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
October 5, 2021
**Happy Release Day! Now available!**💜
A low-no spoiler review. 😄
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/ Stars
"Did you mark me, baby? Am I yours?" "You are mine," Hazard growled. "You're mine, do you understand?" "Fuck yeah, I do." "You're mine, John." Somer's expression softened. "I know, sweetheart. I'm not going anywhere."
Things I worried about before diving into this newest Hazard and Somerset adventure:
1) Would it live up to my (possibly too high) expectations? 🤔
2) Would I (gasp) be tired of Ree and John? 😮
3) Would the mystery be interesting? 🕵️♂️
4) Would the BIG thing thrown at us at the end of Off Duty Volume 2 be resolved in a satisfactory way? (I'm trying to keep that part spoiler free because I realize people who read this review might not have gotten that far. If you have read that far, I'm 100% sure you KNOW what I'm talking about.) 😱
5) Would the two take steps forward in their relationship and NOT steps backward? (This was big for me.) 😡
6) Would the angst be too much, even for a devoted Ashochist? 🥺
7) Would I be able to get Greg's address to air my grievances in person if items 1-6 filled me with rage? 🤭
8) Would my cat ever forgive me for putting her in this contraption? 🤣
(She's fine. She just has allergies and is also neurotic and so she picks at herself and has to be stopped. Also she’s a drama queen. I choose to make her ordeal as fashionable and funny as possible.)
Well it turns out all of my worries were for nothing. Except the one about my cat. She is PISSED. 🤷🏻♀️
So yes, our boys are back! I don't know about you but I have missed them so much. They grabbed hold of my heart a long time ago and show no signs of giving it back. 🥰
The official case?
It went from mysterious to heartbreaking. As per usual, lots of possible suspects. Also as per usual, I did not figure it out. A detective I am not. This one really got to me though. Side note: What's up with this town? You could not pay me to live there. Sure I would live nearby so I could stalk the guys but there's no way I would reside within city limits.
The relationship?
I had worried that the two would regress as far as their relationship went. But to my surprise and delight, it was the opposite. They had their moments but the two have come a LONG way from where they started. I loved how they worked together and (SHOCK) communicated. How they were each other's rock. 😍 (In the previews for the next book though, it appears Somers is about to do something dumb but I'm hopeful it won't derail all the progress they've made.) They killed me with all of their tiny, tender moments of perfection. As always, they made me laugh too. So much laughing.
"Wait until I decide to reorganize the socks in my sock drawer. Something whimsical. By associated memories, maybe." "No. You're too lazy." "I won't actually do it myself. I've got Shaw's number, and according to the forty-seven texts I get each day, he'd love to come visit-" "You wouldn't dare!"
The THING!
No spoilers but, for me, it worked. I will provide a gif that encompasses how I feel.
Random stuff that doesn't fit anywhere else in the review:
1) I'm still amazed by how I actually like Nico now. If you would have told me previously that I would come to feel this way, I would have called you a liar liar, pants on fire.
2) Dulac. I still don't like him. I'm usually a forgiving person, mostly because I have a bad memory. But I CAN'T forgive him. He wasn't around much in this which was a plus for me.
3) That THEO cameo. Sweet baby THEO talking about AUGGIE. My poor heart. If you haven't read They Told Me I Was Everything and its sequel, what are you even waiting for?
4) Rebeca and Noah. I love them. That's all.
5) Evie is the most precious thing ever. I normally am not a fan of kids in books but Evie has me as wrapped around her finger as she does her, "Dee."
6) Hazard's mom. Specifically her calling him muffin and bunny.
7) Shaw. No in person cameo but he’s still making his campaign to be Ree’s best friend KNOWN. 🤣
If you are still reading this, thank you for coming to my H&S TED Talk.
A low-no spoiler review. 😄
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/ Stars
"Did you mark me, baby? Am I yours?" "You are mine," Hazard growled. "You're mine, do you understand?" "Fuck yeah, I do." "You're mine, John." Somer's expression softened. "I know, sweetheart. I'm not going anywhere."
Things I worried about before diving into this newest Hazard and Somerset adventure:
1) Would it live up to my (possibly too high) expectations? 🤔
2) Would I (gasp) be tired of Ree and John? 😮
3) Would the mystery be interesting? 🕵️♂️
4) Would the BIG thing thrown at us at the end of Off Duty Volume 2 be resolved in a satisfactory way? (I'm trying to keep that part spoiler free because I realize people who read this review might not have gotten that far. If you have read that far, I'm 100% sure you KNOW what I'm talking about.) 😱
5) Would the two take steps forward in their relationship and NOT steps backward? (This was big for me.) 😡
6) Would the angst be too much, even for a devoted Ashochist? 🥺
7) Would I be able to get Greg's address to air my grievances in person if items 1-6 filled me with rage? 🤭
8) Would my cat ever forgive me for putting her in this contraption? 🤣
(She's fine. She just has allergies and is also neurotic and so she picks at herself and has to be stopped. Also she’s a drama queen. I choose to make her ordeal as fashionable and funny as possible.)
Well it turns out all of my worries were for nothing. Except the one about my cat. She is PISSED. 🤷🏻♀️
So yes, our boys are back! I don't know about you but I have missed them so much. They grabbed hold of my heart a long time ago and show no signs of giving it back. 🥰
The official case?
It went from mysterious to heartbreaking. As per usual, lots of possible suspects. Also as per usual, I did not figure it out. A detective I am not. This one really got to me though. Side note: What's up with this town? You could not pay me to live there. Sure I would live nearby so I could stalk the guys but there's no way I would reside within city limits.
The relationship?
I had worried that the two would regress as far as their relationship went. But to my surprise and delight, it was the opposite. They had their moments but the two have come a LONG way from where they started. I loved how they worked together and (SHOCK) communicated. How they were each other's rock. 😍 (In the previews for the next book though, it appears Somers is about to do something dumb but I'm hopeful it won't derail all the progress they've made.) They killed me with all of their tiny, tender moments of perfection. As always, they made me laugh too. So much laughing.
"Wait until I decide to reorganize the socks in my sock drawer. Something whimsical. By associated memories, maybe." "No. You're too lazy." "I won't actually do it myself. I've got Shaw's number, and according to the forty-seven texts I get each day, he'd love to come visit-" "You wouldn't dare!"
The THING!
No spoilers but, for me, it worked. I will provide a gif that encompasses how I feel.
Random stuff that doesn't fit anywhere else in the review:
1) I'm still amazed by how I actually like Nico now. If you would have told me previously that I would come to feel this way, I would have called you a liar liar, pants on fire.
2) Dulac. I still don't like him. I'm usually a forgiving person, mostly because I have a bad memory. But I CAN'T forgive him. He wasn't around much in this which was a plus for me.
3) That THEO cameo. Sweet baby THEO talking about AUGGIE. My poor heart. If you haven't read They Told Me I Was Everything and its sequel, what are you even waiting for?
4) Rebeca and Noah. I love them. That's all.
5) Evie is the most precious thing ever. I normally am not a fan of kids in books but Evie has me as wrapped around her finger as she does her, "Dee."
6) Hazard's mom. Specifically her calling him muffin and bunny.
7) Shaw. No in person cameo but he’s still making his campaign to be Ree’s best friend KNOWN. 🤣
If you are still reading this, thank you for coming to my H&S TED Talk.
December 5, 2021
Audiobook – 4 stars
Story – 4.15 stars
Phew! This was an emotional roller-coaster. I survived Greg’s words torture.
Series three of Hazard and Somers is here. I enjoyed most of it, other parts not so much. I had to take a small break because I was angry at everyone in this book. Except Evie!
The writing is still stellar and the story telling amazing. I love how Greg describes scenes. I live for that shit. I can see everything clearly in my head.
The Mystery- Lawd! This was the most complicated, heart-breaking mystery Greg has written to date. What a bunch of horrible people. Worst of all things like this happen in RL. I liked tagging along and trying to solve the case.
Hazard and Somers – I wanted to pull my hair out most of the time when it came to these two. Hazard’s temper was off the charts. It was unbelievable most of the time. He threw temper tantrums like a toddler to a point he became unrecognized. I am hoping as the series continues, this Hazard takes a back seat, we have come so far. Somers on the other hand was Somers, the one trying to please everyone and keep everything together. This is the first time I have been all team Somers. Although I didn’t like how he was trying to win points with Colt.
These two had some sweet moments that drowned out the horrible moments. When they communicate and work together they are magic. Marriage looks good on them.
“Ree, I love you. We’re going to figure this out.”
“I love you too.”
Colt – Hmmmm! I am still not on board this train.
The banter – There are so many laugh out loud moments in this book that made me forget how frustrated I was. Hazard and Somers trying to have some private moments and keep getting interrupted is comedy gold.
Hazard’s mum. Awww she is such a darling. Her nicknames for Hazard gets me every time. Huge grumpy Hazard being called muffin and bunny is hilarious.
Evie is going to get away with so much when she grows up. Hazard stands no chance.
Nico - Poor, poor soul. He needs lots and lots of therapy. I felt sorry for him.
Theo – YAAYY! Greg please give us another Theo and Auggie book.
Overall, I ended up enjoying this one. Taking it in small doses helped a lot.
Disclaimer! A copy of the audiobook was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Story – 4.15 stars
Phew! This was an emotional roller-coaster. I survived Greg’s words torture.
Series three of Hazard and Somers is here. I enjoyed most of it, other parts not so much. I had to take a small break because I was angry at everyone in this book. Except Evie!
The writing is still stellar and the story telling amazing. I love how Greg describes scenes. I live for that shit. I can see everything clearly in my head.
The Mystery- Lawd! This was the most complicated, heart-breaking mystery Greg has written to date. What a bunch of horrible people. Worst of all things like this happen in RL. I liked tagging along and trying to solve the case.
Hazard and Somers – I wanted to pull my hair out most of the time when it came to these two. Hazard’s temper was off the charts. It was unbelievable most of the time. He threw temper tantrums like a toddler to a point he became unrecognized. I am hoping as the series continues, this Hazard takes a back seat, we have come so far. Somers on the other hand was Somers, the one trying to please everyone and keep everything together. This is the first time I have been all team Somers. Although I didn’t like how he was trying to win points with Colt.
These two had some sweet moments that drowned out the horrible moments. When they communicate and work together they are magic. Marriage looks good on them.
“Ree, I love you. We’re going to figure this out.”
“I love you too.”
Colt – Hmmmm! I am still not on board this train.
The banter – There are so many laugh out loud moments in this book that made me forget how frustrated I was. Hazard and Somers trying to have some private moments and keep getting interrupted is comedy gold.
Hazard’s mum. Awww she is such a darling. Her nicknames for Hazard gets me every time. Huge grumpy Hazard being called muffin and bunny is hilarious.
Evie is going to get away with so much when she grows up. Hazard stands no chance.
Nico - Poor, poor soul. He needs lots and lots of therapy. I felt sorry for him.
Theo – YAAYY! Greg please give us another Theo and Auggie book.
Overall, I ended up enjoying this one. Taking it in small doses helped a lot.
Disclaimer! A copy of the audiobook was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
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June 17, 2022
"That's unfortunate," Hazard said. "There's a lot of research around the benefits of early morning activity."
"But it's more important to be active in keeping with your body's circadian rhythm."
Hazard stared at him.
"I know," Somers said, raising his hands in protest. "Too much time together. But I read that whole book too."
"John!"
"I didn't have anything else to read. It was the weekend you threw away my gay Christmas romance novels."
✧ the first half was... a lot (Hazard yelling 24/7, Somers trying to be the peacekeeper - and i understood both and why they were like that, but it was all over the place imo) but i'm glad things kinda calmed down by the second half, without me feeling anxiety on what's going to happen next. 😅
✧ not really sure how to feel about Colt yet?? he was a little more tolerable by the end of the book... but i still don't know what to think of him, overall. would be interested in a spin off of him and Ash, if there was one, though! 👀
✧ EVIE. 💘
✧ Dulac is just as annoying as ever (fortunately, he wasn't that much in here - and this was one of the times i'm happy Somers was made as the Chief so he didn't have to be partners with Dulac anymore lmao - but his few appearances did make me roll my eyes). i'm glad i can still confirm that by the third installment. 💀
✧ i lowkey have a soft spot for Nico now and i wish we'll see his happy ending by the end of the series. 🥺
"But it's more important to be active in keeping with your body's circadian rhythm."
Hazard stared at him.
"I know," Somers said, raising his hands in protest. "Too much time together. But I read that whole book too."
"John!"
"I didn't have anything else to read. It was the weekend you threw away my gay Christmas romance novels."
✧ the first half was... a lot (Hazard yelling 24/7, Somers trying to be the peacekeeper - and i understood both and why they were like that, but it was all over the place imo) but i'm glad things kinda calmed down by the second half, without me feeling anxiety on what's going to happen next. 😅
✧ not really sure how to feel about Colt yet?? he was a little more tolerable by the end of the book... but i still don't know what to think of him, overall. would be interested in a spin off of him and Ash, if there was one, though! 👀
✧ EVIE. 💘
✧ Dulac is just as annoying as ever (fortunately, he wasn't that much in here - and this was one of the times i'm happy Somers was made as the Chief so he didn't have to be partners with Dulac anymore lmao - but his few appearances did make me roll my eyes). i'm glad i can still confirm that by the third installment. 💀
✧ i lowkey have a soft spot for Nico now and i wish we'll see his happy ending by the end of the series. 🥺
October 13, 2021
The new book started with a shock. I didn't expect it. But I think it was a pleasant surprise in Somers and Hazard’s life.
Here we jump into the wholly unexpected situation which Hazard could not have done even in his dream. How a gay man like Hazard has ever slept with a woman? I laughed so hard when Colt said that his dad was Hazard, and it was a dad-son reunion. But they accepted Colt no matter how hard it was for Hazard, and Somers was there to figure out everything with him. I love this Somers. He is so mature now. I can practically see it when he deals with stuff like this. I love Ree and John so much. They deserve each other.
I feel sorry for Nico. He is still struggling with past traumas, and he still loves Hazard. I cannot blame him. Because hazard is like a role model for him, and he is protective of Nico even though Nico is not his boyfriend anymore. I wish Nico finds someone who lights his world entirely. He deserves so much better. Poor Nico! I love him.
The case is very interesting. But it didn't has the power to keep me on the edge of my chair. I think it was because recently, most of Hazard and Somers's life revolved around Colt. It was a big deal. Because he came out of nowhere and poor Hazard and Somers had to take responsibility for him. The situation was surreal.
I'm so scared of the next book. What will happen to Colt? Will John divulge the truth of the threat of Colt’s father to Ree? How long will John hide it from Ree?
I'm tempted to know answers to those questions. Waiting for the next book!
Here we jump into the wholly unexpected situation which Hazard could not have done even in his dream. How a gay man like Hazard has ever slept with a woman? I laughed so hard when Colt said that his dad was Hazard, and it was a dad-son reunion. But they accepted Colt no matter how hard it was for Hazard, and Somers was there to figure out everything with him. I love this Somers. He is so mature now. I can practically see it when he deals with stuff like this. I love Ree and John so much. They deserve each other.
I feel sorry for Nico. He is still struggling with past traumas, and he still loves Hazard. I cannot blame him. Because hazard is like a role model for him, and he is protective of Nico even though Nico is not his boyfriend anymore. I wish Nico finds someone who lights his world entirely. He deserves so much better. Poor Nico! I love him.
The case is very interesting. But it didn't has the power to keep me on the edge of my chair. I think it was because recently, most of Hazard and Somers's life revolved around Colt. It was a big deal. Because he came out of nowhere and poor Hazard and Somers had to take responsibility for him. The situation was surreal.
I'm so scared of the next book. What will happen to Colt? Will John divulge the truth of the threat of Colt’s father to Ree? How long will John hide it from Ree?
I'm tempted to know answers to those questions. Waiting for the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2021
4,25 stars
Unbelievably, Gregory Ashe is giving us more Hazard and Somerset.
And, before you ask, it still works (and brilliantly at that!) even after the 12 dazzling books that came beforehand.
I found this as captivating, with a need-to-know-what's-going-to-happen vibe all the way.
While Ree and John sailed into the sunset of marital bliss at the end of the second series, it’s not all rainbows and roses when they return from their honeymoon. But, tbh, I didn’t really think that was on the cards, considering the cliffhanger we were left with at the end of the last book of series 2.
And Gregory Ashe, not quite unexpectedly, makes most of that!
What I loved:
.) Both men have learnt so much since we met them, particularly when it comes to their relationship. They not only know each other so much better now, they also make use of this knowledge to deal with each other when one 'misbehaves' or goes off the rails.
Which means that they apologize when they’ve done or said something wrong. They do talk about issues and problems and mostly – they do it lovingly and with respect.
The warmth and the understanding they show each other, the unerring support and the deep connection between them are sigh-worthy!
.) Seeing Hazard and Somers working together like they used to is epic and wonderful. Thoroughly enjoyed how they unravel things.
.) The humour is great – we get lots of really good banter which made me grin broadly on many occasions.
.) Mr.Dulac Gray was hardly in the book. LOL. Sorry Gray, I hate to say it, but the book was all the better for it!
.) Surprise of surprises, I did not totally hate Nico. I'm still marginally wary of him, but ... he's clearly accepted that Hazard is out of his reach now. and thank God for that!
.) Apart from the case, the plot surrounding Colt totally grabbed my attention from page 1.
.) I adore how things turn out in the end. I kind of thought/hoped it would, and Gregory Ashe doesn’t disappoint.
.) Emery Hazard’s big soft gooey heart is the best.
What made me a bit uneasy:
.) Hazard is one of my all-time favourite characters, and I must admit, I was a bit taken aback by his extreme reaction at the beginning.
I also didn’t quite get why Somers is trying so hard to please Colt in the very early stages,
.) I was not a fan of Colt for quite a wee while. Considering what Hazard and Somers do for him, he behaves atrociously. And while he gets redeemed later when we find out about his life (he really has had a sh***y start to it), I am not sure whether this, and the fact that he is a teenager, can ‘excuse’ everything he does.
He certainly turns a corner at the end, and I was happy enough with how that went.
Small niggles though in the big scheme of things!
This is a fabulous start to this new series and I can’t wait what else the author has in store for these two brilliant guys!
Unbelievably, Gregory Ashe is giving us more Hazard and Somerset.
And, before you ask, it still works (and brilliantly at that!) even after the 12 dazzling books that came beforehand.
I found this as captivating, with a need-to-know-what's-going-to-happen vibe all the way.
While Ree and John sailed into the sunset of marital bliss at the end of the second series, it’s not all rainbows and roses when they return from their honeymoon. But, tbh, I didn’t really think that was on the cards, considering the cliffhanger we were left with at the end of the last book of series 2.
And Gregory Ashe, not quite unexpectedly, makes most of that!
What I loved:
.) Both men have learnt so much since we met them, particularly when it comes to their relationship. They not only know each other so much better now, they also make use of this knowledge to deal with each other when one 'misbehaves' or goes off the rails.
Which means that they apologize when they’ve done or said something wrong. They do talk about issues and problems and mostly – they do it lovingly and with respect.
The warmth and the understanding they show each other, the unerring support and the deep connection between them are sigh-worthy!
.) Seeing Hazard and Somers working together like they used to is epic and wonderful. Thoroughly enjoyed how they unravel things.
.) The humour is great – we get lots of really good banter which made me grin broadly on many occasions.
.) Mr.Dulac Gray was hardly in the book. LOL. Sorry Gray, I hate to say it, but the book was all the better for it!
.) Surprise of surprises, I did not totally hate Nico. I'm still marginally wary of him, but ... he's clearly accepted that Hazard is out of his reach now. and thank God for that!
.) Apart from the case, the plot surrounding Colt totally grabbed my attention from page 1.
.) I adore how things turn out in the end. I kind of thought/hoped it would, and Gregory Ashe doesn’t disappoint.
.) Emery Hazard’s big soft gooey heart is the best.
What made me a bit uneasy:
.) Hazard is one of my all-time favourite characters, and I must admit, I was a bit taken aback by his extreme reaction at the beginning.
I also didn’t quite get why Somers is trying so hard to please Colt in the very early stages,
.) I was not a fan of Colt for quite a wee while. Considering what Hazard and Somers do for him, he behaves atrociously. And while he gets redeemed later when we find out about his life (he really has had a sh***y start to it), I am not sure whether this, and the fact that he is a teenager, can ‘excuse’ everything he does.
He certainly turns a corner at the end, and I was happy enough with how that went.
Small niggles though in the big scheme of things!
This is a fabulous start to this new series and I can’t wait what else the author has in store for these two brilliant guys!
May 15, 2025
Dude.... Absolutely my favourite Hazard and Somerset book so far.
Emery broke my heart repeatedly, he had me crying 😭 I adored him wanting to be a dad so much, and he goes through so many emotions in the span of a week that he deserves another holiday immediately!
I actually loved Colt so much. He felt like the thing that had been missing from the Hazard and Somerset family - sounds weird but seriously he just fit so well! His hero worship of Emery and copying his choices.... too cute! He was also undeniably a bratty and stupid teenager who didn't think anything through, but it made him feel like a real, flawed person, which is what I love about Gregory Ashe's writing.
John-Henry managed a whole book without pissing me off too 😂 Only took until book fourteen (if you include the two off duty novellas) but I'm taking it as a win because no doubt he'll annoy me again soon enough 😂
I also really enjoyed the crime solving. I had no clue, no suspicions, and it fully kept my attention. I didn't put my kindle down from the moment I started this book until I finished it!
Nico is also kinda growing on me, like a fungus, I guess, and my bro Dulac worked so much better in teeny tiny doses! I still think he's unhinged but for some unknown reason I really love his character 😂 I'm genuinely excited for his book to be released!
Emery broke my heart repeatedly, he had me crying 😭 I adored him wanting to be a dad so much, and he goes through so many emotions in the span of a week that he deserves another holiday immediately!
I actually loved Colt so much. He felt like the thing that had been missing from the Hazard and Somerset family - sounds weird but seriously he just fit so well! His hero worship of Emery and copying his choices.... too cute! He was also undeniably a bratty and stupid teenager who didn't think anything through, but it made him feel like a real, flawed person, which is what I love about Gregory Ashe's writing.
John-Henry managed a whole book without pissing me off too 😂 Only took until book fourteen (if you include the two off duty novellas) but I'm taking it as a win because no doubt he'll annoy me again soon enough 😂
I also really enjoyed the crime solving. I had no clue, no suspicions, and it fully kept my attention. I didn't put my kindle down from the moment I started this book until I finished it!
Nico is also kinda growing on me, like a fungus, I guess, and my bro Dulac worked so much better in teeny tiny doses! I still think he's unhinged but for some unknown reason I really love his character 😂 I'm genuinely excited for his book to be released!
May 3, 2022
***AUDIO RE-READ/LISTEN 5/1/22 -5/2/22***
Revisiting with one of my favorite couples is just what I needed. I love these two.
***ORIGINAL PAPERBACK READ 9/18/21 - 9/20/21 ***
Life being what it is I'm super short on time so I'll only say I LOVED IT ❤️ Here are a few thoughts, and I'll likely have more gushing when I immerse myself in the upcoming audio.
The different arcs in this series have been dedicated to exploring the stages of the relationship between Hazard & Somers and, going by this first installment of ARROW IN THE HAND, this arc will likely be all about the domesticity of an established couple of which I'm all in favor. l'm eager to see what comes next, the down & dirty, nitty-gritty, down to the studs love depictions of love. What comes after the 'I love you' & HEA. What does love look like when you hate your SO, when life is at sixes and sevens, when he leaves socks everywhere except the laundry hamper but will also hold your hair back while you puke. I'm here for that manifestation of love.
When the book opens Emery and John have literally just arrived from their Honeymoon and are immediately confronted with a boy claiming to be Hazard's son, and are asked to consult on another impossible murder. The case, as usual serves a window into human nature. It's rarely pretty.
Meanwhile Colt (Hazard's alleged son) brings up a host of emotions in Hazard. Colt is all of the boys and young men crushed under the heel of unfeeling & unempathetic adults who should be their shield in a cold, harsh world. The boys that Hazard feels he should've saved as he barely saved himself. At the same time Colt is a teenager. The fireworks are, to say the least, entertaining and John-Henry is going up by leaps and bounds on the canonization list.
But what remains front and center is the real love between these two, it keeps me swooney, and the humor, which besides being actually funny reads as authentic to a real couple.
Can you go into this without having read the previous books in the series? Probably. But why would you deny yourself all the goodness that came before?
xoxo
Revisiting with one of my favorite couples is just what I needed. I love these two.
***ORIGINAL PAPERBACK READ 9/18/21 - 9/20/21 ***
Life being what it is I'm super short on time so I'll only say I LOVED IT ❤️ Here are a few thoughts, and I'll likely have more gushing when I immerse myself in the upcoming audio.
The different arcs in this series have been dedicated to exploring the stages of the relationship between Hazard & Somers and, going by this first installment of ARROW IN THE HAND, this arc will likely be all about the domesticity of an established couple of which I'm all in favor. l'm eager to see what comes next, the down & dirty, nitty-gritty, down to the studs love depictions of love. What comes after the 'I love you' & HEA. What does love look like when you hate your SO, when life is at sixes and sevens, when he leaves socks everywhere except the laundry hamper but will also hold your hair back while you puke. I'm here for that manifestation of love.
When the book opens Emery and John have literally just arrived from their Honeymoon and are immediately confronted with a boy claiming to be Hazard's son, and are asked to consult on another impossible murder. The case, as usual serves a window into human nature. It's rarely pretty.
Meanwhile Colt (Hazard's alleged son) brings up a host of emotions in Hazard. Colt is all of the boys and young men crushed under the heel of unfeeling & unempathetic adults who should be their shield in a cold, harsh world. The boys that Hazard feels he should've saved as he barely saved himself. At the same time Colt is a teenager. The fireworks are, to say the least, entertaining and John-Henry is going up by leaps and bounds on the canonization list.
But what remains front and center is the real love between these two, it keeps me swooney, and the humor, which besides being actually funny reads as authentic to a real couple.
Can you go into this without having read the previous books in the series? Probably. But why would you deny yourself all the goodness that came before?
xoxo
February 13, 2022
Arrrghhh!
This book twisted me up!
Here’s why:
Stubborn Hazard
Placating Somers
A kid as stubborn as Hazard
Colt
Colt
(The stubborn kid)
While I loved Hazard and Somerset (as always) throwing Colt in the mix didn’t work for me as much as a standard murder would have.
I know things are always in flux on the home front with they two men, but I’m looking forward to things settling down so we can get back to good old death and mayhem in Wahredua.
As always, a SENSATIONAL NARRATION by Tristan James!!
This book twisted me up!
Here’s why:
Stubborn Hazard
Placating Somers
A kid as stubborn as Hazard
Colt
Colt
(The stubborn kid)
While I loved Hazard and Somerset (as always) throwing Colt in the mix didn’t work for me as much as a standard murder would have.
I know things are always in flux on the home front with they two men, but I’m looking forward to things settling down so we can get back to good old death and mayhem in Wahredua.
As always, a SENSATIONAL NARRATION by Tristan James!!
September 26, 2023
4.5 stars
”But I remember being that boy. And I remember what it feels like, the last light in the universe bearing down on you, wanting to crush you, your only choice to throw yourself into the dark, and you’re the only one who can do it. I’ve been there, Colt. I’ve walked that stretch.”
How can Hazard and Somers keep getting better with each series? The emotional tumult in this book is crazy and it all centers on the introduction of Colt. Colt is fifteen and shows up on Ree’s and Somer’s doorstep claiming Ree is his father. He is vulnerable, prickly and desperate to be loved. To say that Ree reacts badly to this shock is an understatement. He hits the roof with a quintessential Hazard-like tantrum—raging, lashing out and in denial. Colt is a good kid but he keeps getting into trouble and endangers himself as he tries to solve the case thinking it will win him Ree’s approval. The scenes between these two are heartbreaking. I cried so many times. Throughout it all, Somers is the voice of reason and a calming influence. He’s supportive of Colt and encourages Ree to give him a chance. It’s hilarious watching Somers trying too hard to be cool to get Colt to like him. Evie is also adorable as she gets to know Colt and bonds with him. The only reason this wasn’t 5 stars was because the mystery was decent but not great. The premise was interesting and it was supposed to be a complex case, but I figured out who the culprit was pretty early on.
”But I remember being that boy. And I remember what it feels like, the last light in the universe bearing down on you, wanting to crush you, your only choice to throw yourself into the dark, and you’re the only one who can do it. I’ve been there, Colt. I’ve walked that stretch.”
How can Hazard and Somers keep getting better with each series? The emotional tumult in this book is crazy and it all centers on the introduction of Colt. Colt is fifteen and shows up on Ree’s and Somer’s doorstep claiming Ree is his father. He is vulnerable, prickly and desperate to be loved. To say that Ree reacts badly to this shock is an understatement. He hits the roof with a quintessential Hazard-like tantrum—raging, lashing out and in denial. Colt is a good kid but he keeps getting into trouble and endangers himself as he tries to solve the case thinking it will win him Ree’s approval. The scenes between these two are heartbreaking. I cried so many times. Throughout it all, Somers is the voice of reason and a calming influence. He’s supportive of Colt and encourages Ree to give him a chance. It’s hilarious watching Somers trying too hard to be cool to get Colt to like him. Evie is also adorable as she gets to know Colt and bonds with him. The only reason this wasn’t 5 stars was because the mystery was decent but not great. The premise was interesting and it was supposed to be a complex case, but I figured out who the culprit was pretty early on.
Read
August 1, 2023I stopped reading at the 60% mark and skimmed the rest. I wasn't invested in the case, and, more importantly, I hated everything concerning Colt and him becoming a part of the Hazard/Somerset household.
It wouldn't have been so bad if he hadn't lied about who he was in the beginning, but falling for his lies and allowing myself to feel sorry for him only to discover later on that everything he did like pretending to be jealous of Somers or pretending to take an interest in investigations to be more like "his dad" was an act made me wish Hazard had done what he wanted to do with him when he first showed up. I do not like having the rug pulled out from under me like that, and knowing that his biological father is going to cause problems for them in the future makes it even worse.
Why couldn’t Colt be some messed up kid whose mother lied to him about his father? Why couldn't he have actually believed that Hazard was his father? Or why couldn't he be placed with them under different circumstances? Anything would have been better than this outright deceit.
It felt like Colt was created for the sole purpose of creating more issues for Hazard and Somers. They've worked through a lot of their relationship issues, Hazard started going to counseling, Somers has a relationship with his father, they've made peace with their exes and now have friends, everything is going well so, of course, Hazard now has a teenage son that he knew nothing about. 😮💨 Perfect timing. Can you imagine if he had shown up six months earlier?
I'm not going to rate this because I still love this couple, and I'll admit that the ending was kind of cute. If, in the end, this was something Hazard needed, I'm happy for him. I haven’t decided whether or not I want to continue with this series, but this particular story just didn't work for me.
It wouldn't have been so bad if he hadn't lied about who he was in the beginning, but falling for his lies and allowing myself to feel sorry for him only to discover later on that everything he did like pretending to be jealous of Somers or pretending to take an interest in investigations to be more like "his dad" was an act made me wish Hazard had done what he wanted to do with him when he first showed up. I do not like having the rug pulled out from under me like that, and knowing that his biological father is going to cause problems for them in the future makes it even worse.
Why couldn’t Colt be some messed up kid whose mother lied to him about his father? Why couldn't he have actually believed that Hazard was his father? Or why couldn't he be placed with them under different circumstances? Anything would have been better than this outright deceit.
It felt like Colt was created for the sole purpose of creating more issues for Hazard and Somers. They've worked through a lot of their relationship issues, Hazard started going to counseling, Somers has a relationship with his father, they've made peace with their exes and now have friends, everything is going well so, of course, Hazard now has a teenage son that he knew nothing about. 😮💨 Perfect timing. Can you imagine if he had shown up six months earlier?
I'm not going to rate this because I still love this couple, and I'll admit that the ending was kind of cute. If, in the end, this was something Hazard needed, I'm happy for him. I haven’t decided whether or not I want to continue with this series, but this particular story just didn't work for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2021
goes without saying but SPOILS IN THE BLURB!!! don't read until you've finished Off Duty Volume 2!!!
[4.7] this was soooooo well-worth the wait!!!!
the moment it loaded on my kindle i basicallyforwent my work for the day read it in responsibly sized chunks during work breaks. yup.
i don’t have the mental capacity to write a sensical review so resorting to The Handy Dandy List to document what i enjoyed:
- THE WOMEN IN THIS CONTINUE TO STUN: Cora is as lovely as always, Aniya Thompson is the living embodiment of badassery (telling Hazard to shut his trap without any smidgen of fear? CHILLS Y’ALL 💖), and Rebeca, the reliable word of relationship reason for the dumdums. of course we get our fair share of batsh*t crazy ladies but at least we have these wonderful humans to balance them out! (now if other authors could do the same…..😒)
- the whole situation from Off Duty Vol. 2 was dealt with in a satisfying manner to my relief (i’ll admit that the amateur sleuthing went a bit overboard but it surprisingly didn’t bother me here)
- Hazard and Somers *squeals* i love that they both have their faults and arguments are shown as par for the course, but they refrain from dragging the bad vibes on for too long and genuinely apologize. WE LOVE COMMUNICATION
- i don’t even bat an eye at their questionable investigative techniques anymore 🤣
- WELL I DIDN’T EXPECT THE MYSTERY TO TAKE SUCH A HEARTBREAKINGLY PAINFUL TURN UMMM OUCH??? 🤧
- waiting for the day Nico gets his HEA~
- Hazard, the grumpy protective papa + kids = 🥺
i’ll leave you with this quote because Hazard & Evie continue to be hella cute 🥺🥺
[4.7] this was soooooo well-worth the wait!!!!
the moment it loaded on my kindle i basically
i don’t have the mental capacity to write a sensical review so resorting to The Handy Dandy List to document what i enjoyed:
- THE WOMEN IN THIS CONTINUE TO STUN: Cora is as lovely as always, Aniya Thompson is the living embodiment of badassery (telling Hazard to shut his trap without any smidgen of fear? CHILLS Y’ALL 💖), and Rebeca, the reliable word of relationship reason for the dumdums. of course we get our fair share of batsh*t crazy ladies but at least we have these wonderful humans to balance them out! (now if other authors could do the same…..😒)
- the whole situation from Off Duty Vol. 2 was dealt with in a satisfying manner to my relief (i’ll admit that the amateur sleuthing went a bit overboard but it surprisingly didn’t bother me here)
- Hazard and Somers *squeals* i love that they both have their faults and arguments are shown as par for the course, but they refrain from dragging the bad vibes on for too long and genuinely apologize. WE LOVE COMMUNICATION
- i don’t even bat an eye at their questionable investigative techniques anymore 🤣
- WELL I DIDN’T EXPECT THE MYSTERY TO TAKE SUCH A HEARTBREAKINGLY PAINFUL TURN UMMM OUCH??? 🤧
- waiting for the day Nico gets his HEA~
- Hazard, the grumpy protective papa + kids = 🥺
i’ll leave you with this quote because Hazard & Evie continue to be hella cute 🥺🥺
“Evie isn’t going to get into trouble like this because, unlike this teenage deviant, she’s a good girl.”
“She literally sprained your finger a couple of weeks ago by smashing it with that plastic sword you bought her.”
“It was an accident.”
“She screamed, ‘Chop!’”
“Yes, but she—”
“She’s a savage, Ree,” Somers said with a grin. “Buckle up for puberty.”
Hazard frowned.
“Yeah,” Somers said. “Now kiss me on the cheek, tell me how smart I am, and let’s go deal with Colt.”
Hazard kissed him on the cheek. “You are very smart.”
“Can I get that in writing?”
Rolling his eyes, Hazard yanked the door open, and they went inside.
December 31, 2021
Better review to come but of course I loved it! 🥰 *and now I have the audio to listen to* This is the place I hoped Emery and John would get to with each other.
More later. 💜
More later. 💜
January 27, 2022
Who woulda thought that Somers would grow on me quite the way he did. I'm eating my words here because that character's growth in this book is just awesome
October 12, 2021
Ask me why I love everything Gregory Ashe writes. Go on, ask me!
"I remember one night, I walked the MP lines. The train tracks. I could smell the rust and the ballast and the summer weeds. It was so dark I couldn't see my hands in front of my face. And then there was this light, and the ground shaking under me, and I jumped. Fell, really. I tore up my arm pretty bad on the ballast. The train kept on going; the conductor never saw me. I lay there. The wheels were sparking on the rails. When I breathed, there was the taste of hot metal and grease. And right then and there, I knew I was the only one responsible for myself. In the whole universe. If a train was coming at me, nobody was going to pull me off the tracks. I had to do it. I had to do all of it. Me"
This is why I love reading this author. Not just does he write so beautifully that you can picture the entire scene playing out in front of you, but the also managed to en capture his characters feelings and emotions so well that you can feel them yourself.
So much dedication and effort is put into building these layered and complex characters and GA does it with an consistency that constantly surprises and impresses me.
Relative Justice starts of at an incredibly fast pace. These guys are thrown head first into an seemingly impossible situation that neither of them is prepared for. There is a familiar dynamic between Hazard and Somers, yet we get to experience some new elements of their relationship with each other and with others.
Despite some of the heavier topics in this story, the book manages to maintain a sightlier more upbeat tone than some of its predecessors. If you are a fan of these 2 then this book won't disappoint you!
"I remember one night, I walked the MP lines. The train tracks. I could smell the rust and the ballast and the summer weeds. It was so dark I couldn't see my hands in front of my face. And then there was this light, and the ground shaking under me, and I jumped. Fell, really. I tore up my arm pretty bad on the ballast. The train kept on going; the conductor never saw me. I lay there. The wheels were sparking on the rails. When I breathed, there was the taste of hot metal and grease. And right then and there, I knew I was the only one responsible for myself. In the whole universe. If a train was coming at me, nobody was going to pull me off the tracks. I had to do it. I had to do all of it. Me"
This is why I love reading this author. Not just does he write so beautifully that you can picture the entire scene playing out in front of you, but the also managed to en capture his characters feelings and emotions so well that you can feel them yourself.
So much dedication and effort is put into building these layered and complex characters and GA does it with an consistency that constantly surprises and impresses me.
Relative Justice starts of at an incredibly fast pace. These guys are thrown head first into an seemingly impossible situation that neither of them is prepared for. There is a familiar dynamic between Hazard and Somers, yet we get to experience some new elements of their relationship with each other and with others.
Despite some of the heavier topics in this story, the book manages to maintain a sightlier more upbeat tone than some of its predecessors. If you are a fan of these 2 then this book won't disappoint you!
November 7, 2022
Talk about an emotional roller coaster! I swear this book tapped into nearly every feel I have the capacity for. I don't even know how to review these anymore without sounding like I'm on a loop and worrying about giving something crucial away. I guess I'll resort to my tried and true method of listing random thoughts.
Hazard - This man is truly guided by his emotions. For such an intellectual person, his fight or flight tendencies have a horrible habit of usurping logic. His anger rests on a hair trigger and it put me on edge several times throughout this book, especially when it was directed at a teenager and in the vicinity of a preschooler. But knowing where the anger stems from and the driving force behind it makes my heart hurt for him. He really has come a long way, but is still very much a work in progress. It feels like he's always trying to make up for things he perceives as failures and I hope someday he'll believe that he deserves all of the good things in his life.
Somers - Hello Mr. Kind and Patient. While he seemed to have an answer for everything in this book, I can't help but worry about how much stress he's internalizing. On the outside he has been going with the flow and deflecting the punches as they're thrown, but my god is he dealing with a lot. He tries so hard to be what everyone wants and needs and that has to come back to bite him, right? I appreciated his level head in this story because it helped to keep Hazard in check, but I have concerns.
Nico - This poor guy dissolves into tears in every scene he's in. It's obvious that he is going through it right now and I keep hoping that he'll find happiness, whether it's with another person or just within himself. Most importantly, I hope he gets over Hazard and I don't know how easy that will be when he's working for him. I support this choice if it's just a means of keeping Nico in the narrative, but will be upset if it's to cause drama further down the line. I like Nico now and want to keep it that way.
Colt -
THEO!!!!!!! - I've been waiting for this! No on page Auggie, but the mentions were enough to have me squealing in my seat and looking around for someone to tell (spoiler alert, nobody cared). I love to see Dr. Stratford smiling and thriving in his new job.
The mystery - This one got so much darker than I expected it to. I had no idea it was going in the direction it did. Wahredua is one messed up place. It's like the city has its own bat signal that draws all of the dark and dirties to it. I won't be booking a reservation at the Smithfield Arms anytime soon.
I can't wait to see what happens next! These books are so freaking addicting.
Hazard - This man is truly guided by his emotions. For such an intellectual person, his fight or flight tendencies have a horrible habit of usurping logic. His anger rests on a hair trigger and it put me on edge several times throughout this book, especially when it was directed at a teenager and in the vicinity of a preschooler. But knowing where the anger stems from and the driving force behind it makes my heart hurt for him. He really has come a long way, but is still very much a work in progress. It feels like he's always trying to make up for things he perceives as failures and I hope someday he'll believe that he deserves all of the good things in his life.
Somers - Hello Mr. Kind and Patient. While he seemed to have an answer for everything in this book, I can't help but worry about how much stress he's internalizing. On the outside he has been going with the flow and deflecting the punches as they're thrown, but my god is he dealing with a lot. He tries so hard to be what everyone wants and needs and that has to come back to bite him, right? I appreciated his level head in this story because it helped to keep Hazard in check, but I have concerns.
Nico - This poor guy dissolves into tears in every scene he's in. It's obvious that he is going through it right now and I keep hoping that he'll find happiness, whether it's with another person or just within himself. Most importantly, I hope he gets over Hazard and I don't know how easy that will be when he's working for him. I support this choice if it's just a means of keeping Nico in the narrative, but will be upset if it's to cause drama further down the line. I like Nico now and want to keep it that way.
Colt -
THEO!!!!!!! - I've been waiting for this! No on page Auggie, but the mentions were enough to have me squealing in my seat and looking around for someone to tell (spoiler alert, nobody cared). I love to see Dr. Stratford smiling and thriving in his new job.
The mystery - This one got so much darker than I expected it to. I had no idea it was going in the direction it did. Wahredua is one messed up place. It's like the city has its own bat signal that draws all of the dark and dirties to it. I won't be booking a reservation at the Smithfield Arms anytime soon.
I can't wait to see what happens next! These books are so freaking addicting.
November 7, 2021
I think I might be in love with Gregory Ashe. These familiar characters have my heart. 7 Stars. Jh and Ree, Evie, and sweet Colt ♥
November 30, 2021
Absolutely freaking fantastic!! I laughed, I cried 😭 [some parts of this story are very moving], I wanted to punch people and yet hug others close at the same time. I've missed these two so much, and this has to be the best H & S story yet. Chock-full of feels 🥰🥰, Ree and J-H's relationship goes from strength to strength, and Colt? Well, Colt seems to be a mini-me version of Emery whether Emery actually is his dad or not, he obviously wants Ree's approval and love [no spoilers from me]. Five solid gold stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.
I felt quite sorry for Nico in this one as he's having a hard time dealing with the fall-out from The Keeper of Bees series 🤨. Sheriff Engels and two moronic deputies of his 😡😡 feature, Noah and Rebeca are as daft as ever, Hazard's mum makes an appearance as does Theo from They Told Me I Was Everything. Overall this is an action-packed episode, with some mentions of North & Shaw [just mentions thank goodness, no passive-aggressive stuff which is all we seem to get from them 😕] and the ever annoying Gray Dulac unfortunately 🥱🥱 BUT I cannot wait to see how this series progresses. Many congrats Gregory Ashe.
I felt quite sorry for Nico in this one as he's having a hard time dealing with the fall-out from The Keeper of Bees series 🤨. Sheriff Engels and two moronic deputies of his 😡😡 feature, Noah and Rebeca are as daft as ever, Hazard's mum makes an appearance as does Theo from They Told Me I Was Everything. Overall this is an action-packed episode, with some mentions of North & Shaw [just mentions thank goodness, no passive-aggressive stuff which is all we seem to get from them 😕] and the ever annoying Gray Dulac unfortunately 🥱🥱 BUT I cannot wait to see how this series progresses. Many congrats Gregory Ashe.
November 29, 2021
Why oh why do I pick any of these up? Hazard's a nut case and John's an airhead much of the time. Done.
March 12, 2024
Colt! Bringing the drama!
After the extremely bumpy relationship ride of arc 2, I like how the first book of this arc is giving us a more solid Hazard-Somerset duo, despite the chaos unleashed by Colt's unexpected appearance in their lives. Both men are making efforts to work on the trust and communication issues that have always plagued their relationship, and how they react to events and each other in stressful situations (of which there are ridiculously many). Excited to see how these relationship dynamics continue to change as Colt settles permanently into their family.
Why do I keep expecting Gregory Ashe to know how concussions work? Very "Charlie Brown kicking the football" energy on my part here. Anyway, welcome to the Hazardverse, Colt, here's your head trauma!
Finished this two days ago and already forgot the crime, but who cares? Colt! Theo! Nico and his ongoing (and, to the horror of arc 1 Kathleen, annoyingly successful) redemption arc!
Oh wait, yeah, now I remember the crime and ew.
After the extremely bumpy relationship ride of arc 2, I like how the first book of this arc is giving us a more solid Hazard-Somerset duo, despite the chaos unleashed by Colt's unexpected appearance in their lives. Both men are making efforts to work on the trust and communication issues that have always plagued their relationship, and how they react to events and each other in stressful situations (of which there are ridiculously many). Excited to see how these relationship dynamics continue to change as Colt settles permanently into their family.
Why do I keep expecting Gregory Ashe to know how concussions work? Very "Charlie Brown kicking the football" energy on my part here. Anyway, welcome to the Hazardverse, Colt, here's your head trauma!
Finished this two days ago and already forgot the crime, but who cares? Colt! Theo! Nico and his ongoing (and, to the horror of arc 1 Kathleen, annoyingly successful) redemption arc!
Oh wait, yeah, now I remember the crime and ew.
October 9, 2022
Still on my obsession of H&S - so reading / listening non stop. All good
January 24, 2025
5⭐️ oh, how this book made me cry! I loved everything about it.
I love the addition of Colt! I love Hazard and Somers at parents. Hazard is so gruff and protective, yet vulnerable and sweet where it counts. Somers is so funny and easy-going, the perfect counterbalance to Hazard’s intensity.
I love Hazard’s mom. I love Evie.
The murder mystery in this one was super messed up and sad. I loved it.
This is the spiciest book we’ve gotten so far, and the only book where H and S don’t have any real fights or relationship issues, which was a nice change of pace. I love these men as newly weds! ♾️
I love the addition of Colt! I love Hazard and Somers at parents. Hazard is so gruff and protective, yet vulnerable and sweet where it counts. Somers is so funny and easy-going, the perfect counterbalance to Hazard’s intensity.
I love Hazard’s mom. I love Evie.
The murder mystery in this one was super messed up and sad. I loved it.
This is the spiciest book we’ve gotten so far, and the only book where H and S don’t have any real fights or relationship issues, which was a nice change of pace. I love these men as newly weds! ♾️
September 26, 2022
I don't know when I finished this b/c I basically just start on the next one but it was somewhere *waves vaguely at past*
March 2, 2022
So fabulous to read Hazard and Somers again. Another great plot.
I love that there is little sex in Mr Ashe's stories, but if it's there, it's relevant.
Great characters, so sad that they maybe nearly relative.......
Enough, loved it.....
Definitely 5 x stars.
I love that there is little sex in Mr Ashe's stories, but if it's there, it's relevant.
Great characters, so sad that they maybe nearly relative.......
Enough, loved it.....
Definitely 5 x stars.
April 6, 2023
4.5 stars
It was great being back in the H&S universe. I forget how bingeable these books are and have already started the next one.
More surprises for the men as they start married life, especially Hazard. He is really thrown out of his comfort zone here and while he doesn't deal with things all that well at first (as much as I love Hazard I had a tough time with some of his actions here relating to Colt) he and Somers actually work well together to deal with things. I like the new dynamic Colt brings to the story and I like that we have minimal Dulac time now that Somers is further removed from him as Chief. Nico is back again and I really am hoping he will have some happiness at some point here because he has really grown on me.
The mystery turned out to be truly heartbreaking and kept me wondering throughout. A winner!
It was great being back in the H&S universe. I forget how bingeable these books are and have already started the next one.
More surprises for the men as they start married life, especially Hazard. He is really thrown out of his comfort zone here and while he doesn't deal with things all that well at first (as much as I love Hazard I had a tough time with some of his actions here relating to Colt) he and Somers actually work well together to deal with things. I like the new dynamic Colt brings to the story and I like that we have minimal Dulac time now that Somers is further removed from him as Chief. Nico is back again and I really am hoping he will have some happiness at some point here because he has really grown on me.
The mystery turned out to be truly heartbreaking and kept me wondering throughout. A winner!
November 29, 2021
Why do I keep enjoying these books?
Hazard is … an adult toddler? He’s a bit like those romance heroes in 80s romances, but violent as well.
Tantrums. So many tantrums.
All the tantrums.
He’s also not very bright, certainly as depicted by the author.
Hazard is … an adult toddler? He’s a bit like those romance heroes in 80s romances, but violent as well.
Tantrums. So many tantrums.
All the tantrums.
He’s also not very bright, certainly as depicted by the author.
November 25, 2021
With only one murder/death in the plot, one would expect a fairly straightforward investigation and reveal right, especially since a whole lot more of the plot is focused on an urgent family issue much closer to home for our MCs. Wrong. All my hunches as to why and how a reclusive father of two was brutally murdered ended up being nowhere near the awful truth! There's quite a large cast of new secondary characters - comprising family, associates and potential enemies of the deceased - as well as the sheriff departments' rather wacky investigative officers. And thank God there were no sight nor sound of Wahredua's local branch of white supremacists in this installment.
I have to admit my reading focus was diverted toward the second issue ... I was impatiently skimming through a couple of procedural/interviewing sections in my desire to see how Emery (and JH) would be accepting (much less integrating) a new member into their family and home. I was torn between wanting the Emery's emotional /psychological struggle between rejecting the boy's claim and suppressing the longing for the fantastic biological connection is palpable. John Henry's emotional support and extending much leeway/rope as his husband loses his cool/balance is quite something else.
As an aside here ... this takes me back to a lifetime-type movie I saw in my teens where the Incredible Hulk's Bill Bixby played a middle-aged playboy who finds a full grown young man on his doorstep claiming to be his biological offspring (my focus was more on a lithesome blond Darrell Larsen actually LOL); Congratulations It's A Boy must have made an impact as I can remember almost all the details of that movie despite the passing of quite a few decades.
Moments of levity and humor were afforded by having Emery's mother, Nico, Noah and Rebekah, Cora and Evie, even Gray Dulac - all engaging with the novelty of having a 'baby-Emery' around. The author gives a starring cameo role to one of his MCs from his The First Quarto series ... bringing the character forwards in time by quite few years and into a new professional setting; that proved quite a bit of fun. Plus a great deal of hilarity was generated each and every time Shaw Aldridge's name appeared. I'm now avidly wondering if/how Mr Ashe manages to drag either Tean/Jem or Rufus/Sam into Emery/John Henry's world! This is probably the best Ashe offering I've read this year - definitely 5 full stars.
I have to admit my reading focus was diverted toward the second issue ... I was impatiently skimming through a couple of procedural/interviewing sections in my desire to see how Emery (and JH) would be accepting (much less integrating) a new member into their family and home. I was torn between wanting the Emery's emotional /psychological struggle between rejecting the boy's claim and suppressing the longing for the fantastic biological connection is palpable. John Henry's emotional support and extending much leeway/rope as his husband loses his cool/balance is quite something else.
As an aside here ... this takes me back to a lifetime-type movie I saw in my teens where the Incredible Hulk's Bill Bixby played a middle-aged playboy who finds a full grown young man on his doorstep claiming to be his biological offspring (my focus was more on a lithesome blond Darrell Larsen actually LOL); Congratulations It's A Boy must have made an impact as I can remember almost all the details of that movie despite the passing of quite a few decades.
Moments of levity and humor were afforded by having Emery's mother, Nico, Noah and Rebekah, Cora and Evie, even Gray Dulac - all engaging with the novelty of having a 'baby-Emery' around. The author gives a starring cameo role to one of his MCs from his The First Quarto series ... bringing the character forwards in time by quite few years and into a new professional setting; that proved quite a bit of fun. Plus a great deal of hilarity was generated each and every time Shaw Aldridge's name appeared. I'm now avidly wondering if/how Mr Ashe manages to drag either Tean/Jem or Rufus/Sam into Emery/John Henry's world! This is probably the best Ashe offering I've read this year - definitely 5 full stars.
January 6, 2022
Gregory Ashe is back, and so is his most beloved mystery-solving duo: Emery Hazard and John-Henry Somerset. Relative Justice marks the first book in the third arc, Arrows in the Hand, and it's a tasty compilation of everything we've come to expect (and more!) from the dysfunctional city of Wahredua.
Private detective Hazard and now-Chief of Police Somers, have literally just returned from their honeymoon, in the middle of the night no less, to find a teen boy sitting on the stoop of their home. And the first words out of his mouth? His name is Colt and he's Hazard's biological son. This is, needless to say, a shock to everyone. Even worse, the news travels across town like wildfire. Because what could possibly be a more salacious piece of gossip than the newly married couple, with all the impossible crimes under their collective belts, one of whom is the son of the mayor and the other firmly and proudly gay—who apparently had sex with a woman in the distant past, no matter what he says?
Since this is an Ashe mystery, Hazard and Somers barely have time to wrap their heads around this personal turmoil before the Sheriff Department calls requesting aid: a man has been found murdered in the woods and the only evidence to collect are his own footsteps. From here, we are immediately thrust into a compelling and intoxicating mystery with plenty of red herrings, dead ends, great motives, and the twisted underbelly of human nature that Ashe is so well known for casting a light on in his writing. And mingled amongst the murder and mystery is one scared and lonely teenager trying to find his way, and two parents unwilling to see harm befall him—blood related or not.
Relative Justice was a home run. A beautifully constructed plot and denouement, intricately interwoven with the personal trials and growth of Hazard and Somers, making this addition to the series wholly believable and welcome! I continuously drop everything I'm doing when Ashe sends me a new book to read, and this arc is no different. If you're a fan of both the original series and A Union of Swords, no doubt you will appreciate the direction he's going with this third installment!
Private detective Hazard and now-Chief of Police Somers, have literally just returned from their honeymoon, in the middle of the night no less, to find a teen boy sitting on the stoop of their home. And the first words out of his mouth? His name is Colt and he's Hazard's biological son. This is, needless to say, a shock to everyone. Even worse, the news travels across town like wildfire. Because what could possibly be a more salacious piece of gossip than the newly married couple, with all the impossible crimes under their collective belts, one of whom is the son of the mayor and the other firmly and proudly gay—who apparently had sex with a woman in the distant past, no matter what he says?
Since this is an Ashe mystery, Hazard and Somers barely have time to wrap their heads around this personal turmoil before the Sheriff Department calls requesting aid: a man has been found murdered in the woods and the only evidence to collect are his own footsteps. From here, we are immediately thrust into a compelling and intoxicating mystery with plenty of red herrings, dead ends, great motives, and the twisted underbelly of human nature that Ashe is so well known for casting a light on in his writing. And mingled amongst the murder and mystery is one scared and lonely teenager trying to find his way, and two parents unwilling to see harm befall him—blood related or not.
Relative Justice was a home run. A beautifully constructed plot and denouement, intricately interwoven with the personal trials and growth of Hazard and Somers, making this addition to the series wholly believable and welcome! I continuously drop everything I'm doing when Ashe sends me a new book to read, and this arc is no different. If you're a fan of both the original series and A Union of Swords, no doubt you will appreciate the direction he's going with this third installment!
August 2, 2023
I could have started it again as soon as I turned the last page. I know I'm repeating myself and all my GA reviews sound the same but it's not my fault. Every book is excellent, the mystery is great *again* and the personal side of the story is extremely compelling *again*. What else can I say? Gazillion stars.
Updating my review after this re-read.
This *has to* be his best book. I mean it's not possible to top this. I can't imagine anything better.
The character growth, the solidity of their relationship, once again the father and son relationship study (that had shattered me in Wayward but here is a moving blossoming fragile thing)
I'm in awe. I'm speechless. I seriously do not have the words to describe what this book did to me. Maybe on my next re-read
Updating after third read.
I remembered the book quite well but it doesn't matter, I still get completely taken by it. You know how sometimes a book makes your stomach drop or your throat close up? I still react to this book like it's my first read. This book still makes me blush, tear up and still gives me goosebumps. ON THIRD READ ! It's unreal how brilliant this book is.
Updating my review after this re-read.
This *has to* be his best book. I mean it's not possible to top this. I can't imagine anything better.
The character growth, the solidity of their relationship, once again the father and son relationship study (that had shattered me in Wayward but here is a moving blossoming fragile thing)
I'm in awe. I'm speechless. I seriously do not have the words to describe what this book did to me. Maybe on my next re-read
Updating after third read.
I remembered the book quite well but it doesn't matter, I still get completely taken by it. You know how sometimes a book makes your stomach drop or your throat close up? I still react to this book like it's my first read. This book still makes me blush, tear up and still gives me goosebumps. ON THIRD READ ! It's unreal how brilliant this book is.
October 14, 2021
Hazard and Somerset are back! Emery is as surly as ever and John-Henry is his charming self but underneath all that are two kindest hearts and intelligent minds that solve crimes and love to the fullest. The mystery is tight, sharp and well written. I did sympathize with the culprits in the end. I understood why. The characters were fleshed out, the pace was steady and the humor was spot on. Mr Ashe showed two men constantly working on their relationship even after saying I Do's. I liked the reality of it. Overall it was a good book for me, and I can't wait to read more of Hazard and Somerset!
P.S. Steam level is 1.5 out of 5. Emotional intensity is as present as ever but Emery and John-Henry no longer hurt each other but talk and figure things out. Nice change.
P.S. Steam level is 1.5 out of 5. Emotional intensity is as present as ever but Emery and John-Henry no longer hurt each other but talk and figure things out. Nice change.
July 17, 2022
Excellent mystery for this installment!
The mystery for this installment was excellent. It was quite a surprise when it all shook out!
Hazard and Somerset get back from their honeymoon and find a kid on their porch.
I’ve always thought Hazard was a great father to Evie. He proved how he would go to the mat for Colt as well. The backstory for Colt was quite sad and no spoilers BUT I’m glad he will have H&S in his corner.
The mystery part was another tragic story. The murderer was definitely not who I thought it would be! SO many twists and turns!
I’m enjoying H&S settling into married life.
I still kinda hate Dulac but Nico I’m liking again. I wonder what the next book will bring?!?! Off to read book 2 in this arc….
The mystery for this installment was excellent. It was quite a surprise when it all shook out!
Hazard and Somerset get back from their honeymoon and find a kid on their porch.
I’ve always thought Hazard was a great father to Evie. He proved how he would go to the mat for Colt as well. The backstory for Colt was quite sad and no spoilers BUT I’m glad he will have H&S in his corner.
The mystery part was another tragic story. The murderer was definitely not who I thought it would be! SO many twists and turns!
I’m enjoying H&S settling into married life.
I still kinda hate Dulac but Nico I’m liking again. I wonder what the next book will bring?!?! Off to read book 2 in this arc….
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