Guest Review: Wood (True Lover's Stories #2) by A.E. Via

This isn't a romance about billionaires, movie stars, or models. This is a story of two ordinary, working-class men, dealing with life’s real problems, and trying to find love along the way.

It’s been a long seventeen years but Herschel Wood Jr. is finally a free man and he’s looking forward to reconnecting with his old cellmate, Bishop Stockley, who promised him a place to stay and some help getting back on his feet. Wood had a good life once upon time when he’d owned one of the most successful tattoo shops on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront – until a fatal accident that was his fault cost him everything.

Now at forty-six years old, all Wood wants is to work in another shop on the beach and find a mature, easygoing man to settle down with. But when he gets to his new place and finds he has to share the small trailer with Bishop’s childhood friend, he wasn’t expecting a sexy, smart-mouthed brat that enjoys pushing a man to his limits.

Wood pressed in so tight until there was only air and misunderstanding between them, his mouth mere inches from Trent’s parted lips. “You wanted to get a reaction out of me you annoying, immature little shit… now you’ve got one.”

Trent Armstrong has never been considered a catch. He’s a twenty-nine year old laborer, an ex-con, and not the easiest person to get along with. Everyone he’s ever cared for has walked out of his life without a backward glance, so he’s used to the loneliness. His foul mouth and quick temper are a great defense mechanism and a good way to keep unwanted people away.

From the moment the tattooed, silver-haired man walked into the house there had been nothing but tension, side-eyeing, and sparks between them. Trent has always held back a side of himself that he’s nervous to explore, and without warning Wood’s voice, his maturity, that maddening scent, and even his damaged past all trigger feelings that Trent thought he’d buried long ago.

Trent went completely still when Wood dragged his nose over his forehead and down the side of his face. His voice was shaky, and his breaths were hot and swift along Wood’s throat. “What the hell are you doing?” “I’m doing what you want me to do.” Wood whispered. “I’m playing your bullshit game, Trent.”


Reviewer: Shee Reader

Wood is finally free. He goes directly to his friend and former cell-mate Bishop, who has offered a place to stay and help get his feet under him. But Bishop has just moved into his boyfriend’s place and leaves Wood to share the old trailer with Trent, his other friend. There is plenty of friction and angst for these two men who need each other so very badly. To find a safe place to rest and be themselves. This story is dark and hard at times, with injustice and bigotry, but also hope and love. Lots and lots of love so strong that it takes your breath.

Having enjoyed Bishop finding the yin to his yang in the first book, I was so looking forward to this story, and it didn’t disappoint. It was gritty and at times heartbreaking, but the hope it instilled was a tangible thing, and the sexy times were scorching.

It could not be considered a comfort read to me, but it was engaging, hopeful and I felt drawn in from the beginning. The hope and joy were just what I needed at the time, so I would say it is highly recommended if you like a gritty and enthralling read.

I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.



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