Sandy M’s review of Taken (Holton Woods, Book 2.5) by HelenKay Dimon
Contemporary Gay Romance novella published by Intermix 21 Apr 15
If ever a couple in romanceland will be remembered for a long while, it’s Wade and Elijah in HelenKay Dimon’s Holton Woods series. Their story to this point has been intense and so very emotional, and this novella packs a punch as they try to make things work between them. I’m probably like every fan who read it, I wish it had been full length, only to get more of them.
Though they are back together, Wade and Eli are still having one difficult time. Eli has come to realize exactly who he is and wants this relationship, but Wade is guarding his heart this time around, not quite believing Eli is fully committed. He can’t go through losing Eli again. Then there’s Andy, Eli’s former lover. The FBI wants Eli back and Andy’s in the middle of it all, causing more friction for our couple. I do feel for Andy, I like his character a lot, but I also enjoy Wade going even more alpha in protecting what’s his when Andy is in the room. I do hope we get Andy’s book in this series too.
The transition from sex, intense and raw as it is, to talking through their emotions and getting to the heart of them both is taxing but rewarding for Wade and Elijah, as well as the reader. You have to wonder a couple of times if they’re going to make it, especially with all the extraneous stuff going on around them, including very real danger. Eli is afraid of all the emotion he feels for Wade, afraid to finally admit what he wants with this man he loves. Wade is a simmering pot of emotion that regularly roils into a boil and you’d better be out of the way when that happens. There is never a lack of intensity between these two, whether they’re in each other’s face or bed.
I do believe you need to read the first two books to get the full impact of Wade and Eli and their relationship, despite the fact this novella can be read as a standalone. Too much happens between them not to know all of it before you begin this story. And knowing the other characters that mean a lot to these two also helps. Besides, if you haven’t started reading this series, shame on you! This is one series a romance reader should not miss!
Grade: A
Summary:
Wade Royer and Elijah Sterling are on shaky ground. While initially reluctant Eli is finally ready to take things to the next level, Wade is hesitant. He senses trouble coming and he’s right. Still, they know their fiercely undeniable connection—both in and out of the bedroom—is worth saving.
Then a man from Eli’s past reappears and the CIA comes calling—and they both want Eli back. With their relationship in jeopardy of falling apart and Eli in danger of a different kind, both men will have to decide what they really want—and then take it…
Read an excerpt.
Other books in this series:
