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Nothing Special #4
Don't Judge
AN ENEMIES TO LOVERS STORY
Detective Austin Michaels didn’t think life could get any better after he was accepted into the most notorious narcotics task force on the East Coast, headed up by two of the baddest� Lieutenants with the Atlanta Police Department - Cashel Godfrey and Leonidis Day.
Michaels knew he would fit right in as the team’s sniper, having received his fair share of commendations for marksmanship. He was just as badass as the rest of the twenty brothers that made up their team. But when Michaels lets their prime suspect get away from a huge bust with over a quarter of a million dollars in drugs, he’s willing to do whatever it takes to make it right.
Left with no other options, God chooses to bring in outside help, calling on his long-time friend and bounty hunter, Judge Josephson.
Judge was considered one of the best trackers during his enlistment in the United States Marine Corps. After retiring, he used those skills to become one of the most sought out fugitive trackers in the country. When Judge gets a call from his old friend needing his help, he quickly tells God, yes.
Still embarrassed, and intent to prove himself, Michaels immediately volunteers to partner up with Judge to get their suspect back quickly and quietly. Neither man wanted or needed a partner. But, after Judge and Michaels get on the road, the hate/lust relationship they quickly develop between them will either make them heroes� Or get them killed.
Detective Austin Michaels didn’t think life could get any better after he was accepted into the most notorious narcotics task force on the East Coast, headed up by two of the baddest� Lieutenants with the Atlanta Police Department - Cashel Godfrey and Leonidis Day.
Michaels knew he would fit right in as the team’s sniper, having received his fair share of commendations for marksmanship. He was just as badass as the rest of the twenty brothers that made up their team. But when Michaels lets their prime suspect get away from a huge bust with over a quarter of a million dollars in drugs, he’s willing to do whatever it takes to make it right.
Left with no other options, God chooses to bring in outside help, calling on his long-time friend and bounty hunter, Judge Josephson.
Judge was considered one of the best trackers during his enlistment in the United States Marine Corps. After retiring, he used those skills to become one of the most sought out fugitive trackers in the country. When Judge gets a call from his old friend needing his help, he quickly tells God, yes.
Still embarrassed, and intent to prove himself, Michaels immediately volunteers to partner up with Judge to get their suspect back quickly and quietly. Neither man wanted or needed a partner. But, after Judge and Michaels get on the road, the hate/lust relationship they quickly develop between them will either make them heroes� Or get them killed.
365 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2015
284 people are currently reading
1084 people want to read
About the author
A.E. Via
48books3,159followersA.E. Via is an author in the beautiful gay romance genre and also founder and owner of Via Star Wings Books. Her writing embodies everything from hopelessly romantic to spicy to scandalous. Her stories often include intriguing edges and twists that take readers to new, thought-provoking depths.
When she's not clicking away at her laptop, she devotes herself to her family--a husband and four children.
Adrienne Via has tons of more stories to tell, but she really would like to hear yours. Via Star Wings Books is currently accepting submissions for established and aspiring LGBTQ authors. I've contracted and successfully published a couple authors - whose information can be found on my website - who can tell you that my passion is giving other writer's stories the love and care it deserves so it could be a gift to another. Visit my site to learn more!
Go to A.E. Via's official website for more detailed information on how to contact her, follow her, or a sneak peak on upcoming work, free reads, VSWB submissions, and where she'll appear next.
When she's not clicking away at her laptop, she devotes herself to her family--a husband and four children.
Adrienne Via has tons of more stories to tell, but she really would like to hear yours. Via Star Wings Books is currently accepting submissions for established and aspiring LGBTQ authors. I've contracted and successfully published a couple authors - whose information can be found on my website - who can tell you that my passion is giving other writer's stories the love and care it deserves so it could be a gift to another. Visit my site to learn more!
Go to A.E. Via's official website for more detailed information on how to contact her, follow her, or a sneak peak on upcoming work, free reads, VSWB submissions, and where she'll appear next.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 440 reviews
July 27, 2019
The book is currently on sale for .99. Grab it while you can.
Audio - Aiden Snow gives great audio! 😜🤤😋 Maximum sexilious listening guaranteed!!! All the stars!!
Story - 4 stars
In short, alpha meets alpha. Alpha tries to resist alpha. Resistance is futile. 😜 Fireworks ensue along with some ott goodness, and all is right in my reading world. Escapism at it's best. 😍
Audio - Aiden Snow gives great audio! 😜🤤😋 Maximum sexilious listening guaranteed!!! All the stars!!
Story - 4 stars
In short, alpha meets alpha. Alpha tries to resist alpha. Resistance is futile. 😜 Fireworks ensue along with some ott goodness, and all is right in my reading world. Escapism at it's best. 😍
May 3, 2024
3.25*** stars
re-listen December 2022
I read this in a few other reviews and it stood out to me as well this second time around. We all know AE Via loves to write big, furry alpha males?! There’s nothing wrong with it so why the bitching about twinks with their waxing and grooming? What was that all about and why was she stabbing at it so vehemently again and again? Whatever the reason, it made me uncomfortable and so I’m lowering my rating from 4 to 3 stars.
This was my least favorite book in the series even before anyway. This story turned all the OTT ridiculousness of the other books even up a notch. Detective Austin Michaels was not even recognizable to me with his anger issues to the sweet officer we met three years ago in the previous book. That was pretty odd to me, especially because we don’t really get a good explanation of what happened to the nice guy or if it all was a front before. There were some throw-ins of depression and loneliness but nothing I could really grasp on and was explaining all the anger and lashing out.
There was also a lot of angry sex that our Bounty Hunter Judge was eager to fuck out of Austin. It was nonetheless hot as hell so I didn’t mind. But honestly, reading this, it felt like the author was working out some aggressions herself *lolll
In contrast to other readers’s opinion I didn’t mind that Austin forgave Judge rather quickly after his explanations and apology at the end of the book. I find excessive grovelling rather tiresome and annoying, especially when said apology and remorse is genuine in the first place, so I was fine with how it played out. I think everyone should be granted one fuckup (within limits).
All in all I was still a bit surprised by me giving this book 4 stars the first time. It wasn’t that good. But hey, I like being in this setting of God & Day’s Atlanta PD Narcotics team and I loved seeing all my fav characters again, regardless. And that EPILOGUE!!! *swoon hard 🥰
****
Nothing Special Series
Book 1 - Nothing Special - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Embracing His Syn - 4 stars
Book 3 - Here Comes Trouble - 4.25 stars
Book 4 - Don’t Judge - 3.25 stars
Book 5 - Nothing Special V - 4.5 stars
Book 6 - SWAT Ed: His Hart’s Command - 4.5 stars
Book 7 - Ex Meridian - 4.5 stars
Book 7.5 - A Nothing Special New Year - 4 stars
Book 8 - SWAT Ed: Fox & Bull - 4.5 stars
re-listen December 2022
I read this in a few other reviews and it stood out to me as well this second time around. We all know AE Via loves to write big, furry alpha males?! There’s nothing wrong with it so why the bitching about twinks with their waxing and grooming? What was that all about and why was she stabbing at it so vehemently again and again? Whatever the reason, it made me uncomfortable and so I’m lowering my rating from 4 to 3 stars.
This was my least favorite book in the series even before anyway. This story turned all the OTT ridiculousness of the other books even up a notch. Detective Austin Michaels was not even recognizable to me with his anger issues to the sweet officer we met three years ago in the previous book. That was pretty odd to me, especially because we don’t really get a good explanation of what happened to the nice guy or if it all was a front before. There were some throw-ins of depression and loneliness but nothing I could really grasp on and was explaining all the anger and lashing out.
There was also a lot of angry sex that our Bounty Hunter Judge was eager to fuck out of Austin. It was nonetheless hot as hell so I didn’t mind. But honestly, reading this, it felt like the author was working out some aggressions herself *lolll
In contrast to other readers’s opinion I didn’t mind that Austin forgave Judge rather quickly after his explanations and apology at the end of the book. I find excessive grovelling rather tiresome and annoying, especially when said apology and remorse is genuine in the first place, so I was fine with how it played out. I think everyone should be granted one fuckup (within limits).
All in all I was still a bit surprised by me giving this book 4 stars the first time. It wasn’t that good. But hey, I like being in this setting of God & Day’s Atlanta PD Narcotics team and I loved seeing all my fav characters again, regardless. And that EPILOGUE!!! *swoon hard 🥰
****
Nothing Special Series
Book 1 - Nothing Special - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Embracing His Syn - 4 stars
Book 3 - Here Comes Trouble - 4.25 stars
Book 4 - Don’t Judge - 3.25 stars
Book 5 - Nothing Special V - 4.5 stars
Book 6 - SWAT Ed: His Hart’s Command - 4.5 stars
Book 7 - Ex Meridian - 4.5 stars
Book 7.5 - A Nothing Special New Year - 4 stars
Book 8 - SWAT Ed: Fox & Bull - 4.5 stars
April 5, 2021
Shit this book was HAWT !!!
We have met Michaels in the previous book and I was very happy, that he got his own story. Judge was an oke character, but Michaels....yeah I liked him best !!
Judge was a bit of an asshole...though he did try to make up for his mistake....I am still a bit pissed with him though !
If you like reading about two delicious alpha men going at it...you should give this one a try. It was a slow burn with an explosive end :)
4 stars from me....and I loved the dog !!
We have met Michaels in the previous book and I was very happy, that he got his own story. Judge was an oke character, but Michaels....yeah I liked him best !!
Judge was a bit of an asshole...though he did try to make up for his mistake....I am still a bit pissed with him though !
If you like reading about two delicious alpha men going at it...you should give this one a try. It was a slow burn with an explosive end :)
4 stars from me....and I loved the dog !!
December 12, 2018
Re-read 6th December - 8th December 2018
3.5*
The first book I read by this author was Promises, Duke's story and I loved Duke and while he obviously found his HEA I wasn't happy that he'd been deserted and hurt by Judge.
So I paused before starting this. I've become addicted to this series but I wasn't sure how I was going to cope with Judge. I took a short break, read a different book and then held my breath and started.
Surprisingly I found that I actually liked Judge and while we see him with Duke it's obvious he's not committed (he never kisses him) it's just sex and friendship and that made it easier for me.
The surprise was Michaels, I'd really liked him in the previous books but here he was like the hulk at times his anger was just too much for me.
But the rest of it is good and it's HOT and I do mean HOT plus we catch up with the rest of the guys as well including Curtis and Gen.
3.5*
The first book I read by this author was Promises, Duke's story and I loved Duke and while he obviously found his HEA I wasn't happy that he'd been deserted and hurt by Judge.
So I paused before starting this. I've become addicted to this series but I wasn't sure how I was going to cope with Judge. I took a short break, read a different book and then held my breath and started.
Surprisingly I found that I actually liked Judge and while we see him with Duke it's obvious he's not committed (he never kisses him) it's just sex and friendship and that made it easier for me.
The surprise was Michaels, I'd really liked him in the previous books but here he was like the hulk at times his anger was just too much for me.
But the rest of it is good and it's HOT and I do mean HOT plus we catch up with the rest of the guys as well including Curtis and Gen.
December 16, 2022
*** This is an intensely sexual, hot, raw, powerful story, with dirty talk, roughness; and filled with action packed danger ! ***
Judge is a 6'3" Bounty Hunter, who's a bear with
long black hair and a beard. At 42, he has some gray hair, and travels
with "Bookem," a huge Great Dane that is strong, fit and fierce.
Austin Michaels, 6'1"and 32, and a detective/sniper with the notorious Narcotics Squad.
He loves his job, but is a loner. These men are on the good side of the law, but are as tough as any bad guys I've ever read about. They remind me of the motorcycle of mafia guys we love to see in a good book.
Events lead to Judge and Michaels heading out to stake out
and capture a very bad drug dealer that got away. The pair realize they can get along, have similar qualities and are compatible, both on the job and in the bed (or shower, etc.).
* There is a sexy move that I've never read before, too !
These guys have mind-blowing sex, raw, dirty, deeply intense, completely enveloping and amazing. Gosh, all of these characters are magnificent. The plot flows well and is full of energy. We feel like we are there on the stake out, capture and other problems. Judge and Michaels are meant to be together.
A.E. Via writes incredible stories with marvelous characters.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
This is my first in this Nothing Special Series, and it stood alone. I'll have to go back and read the others in this fun series !
==========
Judge is a 6'3" Bounty Hunter, who's a bear with
long black hair and a beard. At 42, he has some gray hair, and travels
with "Bookem," a huge Great Dane that is strong, fit and fierce.
Austin Michaels, 6'1"and 32, and a detective/sniper with the notorious Narcotics Squad.
He loves his job, but is a loner. These men are on the good side of the law, but are as tough as any bad guys I've ever read about. They remind me of the motorcycle of mafia guys we love to see in a good book.
Events lead to Judge and Michaels heading out to stake out
and capture a very bad drug dealer that got away. The pair realize they can get along, have similar qualities and are compatible, both on the job and in the bed (or shower, etc.).
* There is a sexy move that I've never read before, too !
These guys have mind-blowing sex, raw, dirty, deeply intense, completely enveloping and amazing. Gosh, all of these characters are magnificent. The plot flows well and is full of energy. We feel like we are there on the stake out, capture and other problems. Judge and Michaels are meant to be together.
A.E. Via writes incredible stories with marvelous characters.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
This is my first in this Nothing Special Series, and it stood alone. I'll have to go back and read the others in this fun series !
==========
December 15, 2019
OK. So you have to remember Michaels from Ruxs� and Green’s book, “Here Comes Trouble�. He’s the sweet beat cop who was always trying to get onto the Task Force and who made it onto the team at the end of their book.
Well... I totally fall in love with him in this book. He’s got all this pent-up rage and emotions that come barreling out of him when Judge pushes all his buttons. He is a total Power Top & Bottom - it literally blows your mind with how seductively dirty he can be. But I didn’t see that side of him coming. Uggghhh.
He and Judge have the best chemistry, and I think it makes the book better that they don’t have an instant love connection. They have to both work for it. They have to work at even liking each other to start, and then work at being partners on the job before they can be anything else to each other.
This book is great. I love the storyline and I love these guys. Judge’s dog, Bookem, is awesome too. I love that he is an added character in this book. Another great addition to the series.
Well... I totally fall in love with him in this book. He’s got all this pent-up rage and emotions that come barreling out of him when Judge pushes all his buttons. He is a total Power Top & Bottom - it literally blows your mind with how seductively dirty he can be. But I didn’t see that side of him coming. Uggghhh.
He and Judge have the best chemistry, and I think it makes the book better that they don’t have an instant love connection. They have to both work for it. They have to work at even liking each other to start, and then work at being partners on the job before they can be anything else to each other.
This book is great. I love the storyline and I love these guys. Judge’s dog, Bookem, is awesome too. I love that he is an added character in this book. Another great addition to the series.
October 12, 2022
This is the story about how a lonely (needs anger management) sniper and a moody (relationship avoider) bounty hunter fall in love.
It begins with Judge which was a mood killer. However the steam was ott alpha/alpha, all big muscles and hairy asses once he and Michaels got together. They were both incredibly turned on by how real and unprocessed the other was. It was sweet and a nice change from the groomed ideals we are often fed.
That end with God and Day!!
Audiobook read by the talented Aiden Snow. His voice acting makes this series.
It begins with Judge which was a mood killer. However the steam was ott alpha/alpha, all big muscles and hairy asses once he and Michaels got together. They were both incredibly turned on by how real and unprocessed the other was. It was sweet and a nice change from the groomed ideals we are often fed.
That end with God and Day!!
Audiobook read by the talented Aiden Snow. His voice acting makes this series.
May 6, 2021
***3.5 Stars***
My previous read was a little too lite on the steam for me, so I was in the mood for some good ol' hot sex....
Did this book deliver?
I loved Austin and Judge's fight for dominance and control. They definitely fit together well since both men love a good challenge. Each provided the perfect balance of what the other needed.
Unfortunately, as with A.E. Via's other books, there are some serious editing issues here. For an author whose series is full of police officers, detectives, military men, etc...someone should call the authorities on her.
I know what to expect when I pick up an A.E. Via book. Yes, it'll have editing issues...along with over the top scenarios, beefed-up and testosterone fueled Alpha men, scorching hot sex, cheesy endearments and sappy declarations of love.
November 3, 2015
I said I'd take a break from this author. I had a relapse this weekend. I'm sorry.
Basically, I don't have anything to say.
But Michaels, my man...get some help for your anger issues.
Basically, I don't have anything to say.
But Michaels, my man...get some help for your anger issues.
July 23, 2015
Probably my favorite in this series so far. It would have been a 5 star read, if it weren't for all the police procedure fails, and a timeline that makes my head hurt. How long can one guy play college football?
September 3, 2019
Out of four books in this series I liked this the most. There is certain appeal in Judge and Austin's relationship dynamics, their unapologetic needs that they both could meet. I liked that. And there was a good balance between s*exual tension and suspense. There was a host of side characters that made reading this book more fulfilling for me.
I enjoyed reading about Judge's relationship with his father especially since this part also marked the start of something between Austin and him. Their physical encounters were, frankly speaking, very s*exy and hot, but I really liked their inner turmoil and doubts they fought as they tried to figure out a way forward. All the angst made both men more approachable and less perfect.
There was plenty of action to keep things edgy, and it was good that God and Day weren't actually in the picture as much, since they tend to overshadow the MCs with their big presence as the first couple in the series and the biggest goofballs on their team. This book was how I hoped all of them would have been. I enjoyed it a lot.
I enjoyed reading about Judge's relationship with his father especially since this part also marked the start of something between Austin and him. Their physical encounters were, frankly speaking, very s*exy and hot, but I really liked their inner turmoil and doubts they fought as they tried to figure out a way forward. All the angst made both men more approachable and less perfect.
There was plenty of action to keep things edgy, and it was good that God and Day weren't actually in the picture as much, since they tend to overshadow the MCs with their big presence as the first couple in the series and the biggest goofballs on their team. This book was how I hoped all of them would have been. I enjoyed it a lot.
December 27, 2016
Really enjoyed this series and flipped on the last page ! Thank heavens we get another taste, even if it wasn't intended. Michaels & Judge were put together to bring in a drug runner & murderer. Both guys had issues, wants and serious vulnerabilities- both afraid to take a risk and fall in love. Of course after a taste of each other they both realized their lives had changed. Again having all of the team involved made for a great story and I especially loved the epilogue. Would love to see Curtis & Gen get their own book or at least a novella... can only imagine the interference from Ruxs & Green !
September 15, 2019
I just couldn’t get into this one. Detective Austin Michael screwed up on a bust and the prime suspect got away with the money and drugs. His supervisor God brought in a bounty hunter Judge Josephson to assist Michael in tracking the drugs and money and hopefully apprehend the suspect. On the journey, sparks fly between them.
While the intimate parts were really sexy, I didn't enjoy this audiobook like I enjoyed the prior three books.
While the intimate parts were really sexy, I didn't enjoy this audiobook like I enjoyed the prior three books.
April 9, 2016
The sex people, the sex! Too many editing errors for 5 stars, but I really did like this one.
Buttons pushed:
Recommended.
Buttons pushed:
1. Angry sex.
2. Rough sex.
3. Passionate make-up sex.
4. Dirty talk.
5. Power bottoms.
6. Power tops.
7. Alpha males.
8. HEA.
Recommended.
July 3, 2020
I LOVE THESE BIG BADASSES 🤩🤩🤩
And they really make it worse my kink for big tough men 😏😏
So we met Micheals in Here Comes Troubles, and i was so curious about him ' cause he seemed no rough enough for God&Day' task force... But i was so so wrong. 🤩🤩
He's a sniper and a great detective, but he is also a man who crave love. And love for him gonna come in the shape of a big scary bounty hunter: Judge. 🖤🖤
Judge is a loner for choice: his only partner is Bookem, his dog.
The hate ( lust ) between the two of them is immediate, but we all know that the line between love and hate is very subtle.... 😏😏😏
Their story is hot and sweet, but it's also pure adrenaline.
That's what i like most of AE Via's books: they are full of action and the Task Force job is not just a surface contour; it's an important part of the story.
Getting bored is impossible with God & Day ' family.🖤🖤
And they really make it worse my kink for big tough men 😏😏
So we met Micheals in Here Comes Troubles, and i was so curious about him ' cause he seemed no rough enough for God&Day' task force... But i was so so wrong. 🤩🤩
He's a sniper and a great detective, but he is also a man who crave love. And love for him gonna come in the shape of a big scary bounty hunter: Judge. 🖤🖤
Judge is a loner for choice: his only partner is Bookem, his dog.
The hate ( lust ) between the two of them is immediate, but we all know that the line between love and hate is very subtle.... 😏😏😏
Their story is hot and sweet, but it's also pure adrenaline.
That's what i like most of AE Via's books: they are full of action and the Task Force job is not just a surface contour; it's an important part of the story.
Getting bored is impossible with God & Day ' family.🖤🖤
July 3, 2015
1.5 Spelling-challenged stars (rounded down to 1.0)
It's hard to rate this book because, frankly, the absence of any competent editing sorely detracted from the story. This book was RIDDLED with grammatical, punctuation, and spelling errors. I couldn't read but two pages without encountering an error. There was a ghost of a plot that was grossly overshadowed by copious amounts of dive-motel sex. And lastly, what little plot there was suffered from inconsistencies.
Bottom line: I am a fan of A.E. Via and this series but I don't appreciate being taken for granted. I paid $6.99 for this book, I expected and deserved a final product. I didn't get it. I'd think long and hard before shelling out cash for this.
It's hard to rate this book because, frankly, the absence of any competent editing sorely detracted from the story. This book was RIDDLED with grammatical, punctuation, and spelling errors. I couldn't read but two pages without encountering an error. There was a ghost of a plot that was grossly overshadowed by copious amounts of dive-motel sex. And lastly, what little plot there was suffered from inconsistencies.
Bottom line: I am a fan of A.E. Via and this series but I don't appreciate being taken for granted. I paid $6.99 for this book, I expected and deserved a final product. I didn't get it. I'd think long and hard before shelling out cash for this.
June 29, 2015
- untreated anger management problem from michaels.
- editing was cray-cray. i just can't.
- day was still adorable but the story just made him look like a stupid goofball with all the disparaging remarks against him esp coming from cray-cray psycho michaels. i get it that the respect was still there but some words for me just doesn't cut it.
- syn / furi - uh.no. michaels - whatever.
- michaels was likable in the last installment but wth. ugh.
- curtis and genesis. sugar-cane flavored puke all over tbh.
- full review to follow
- editing was cray-cray. i just can't.
- day was still adorable but the story just made him look like a stupid goofball with all the disparaging remarks against him esp coming from cray-cray psycho michaels. i get it that the respect was still there but some words for me just doesn't cut it.
- syn / furi - uh.no. michaels - whatever.
- michaels was likable in the last installment but wth. ugh.
- curtis and genesis. sugar-cane flavored puke all over tbh.
- full review to follow
December 29, 2016
2.5 Stars!
The story was good, I liked the pacing, the characters , banter, action scenes and the pretty explosive sexy times. ;)
If it hadn't been for the absolutely HORRENDOUS editing, this book would've easily gotten a 4 star rating. Too bad it did and I can't in good conscience overlook that level of error especially in a book being sold. Nope. Can't do it.
The story was good, I liked the pacing, the characters , banter, action scenes and the pretty explosive sexy times. ;)
If it hadn't been for the absolutely HORRENDOUS editing, this book would've easily gotten a 4 star rating. Too bad it did and I can't in good conscience overlook that level of error especially in a book being sold. Nope. Can't do it.
December 16, 2019
Re-read December 2019
_________________
Re-read January 2017
4.5 stars
_________________
Re-read January 2017
4.5 stars
September 14, 2024
Sniper Austin Michaels teaming up with bounty hunter Judge Josephson to get the guy who got away in the latest drug bust. One is a grumpy loner - the other one have serious problems controlling his anger. This is two alphas clashing and but as usual in this series - it's OTT and highly entertaining. Narrator Aiden Snow is amazing and it's 3.5 ⭐⭐�
August 7, 2015
This book works as a standalone, but if you’ve been reading the series, you will remember Austin Michaels as the eager, young officer trying to land a spot on God’s task force in the previous book, Here Comes Trouble. Three years later he is a full member of the team, acting as their sniper. Although he’s found happiness in his work life, Michaels is lonely and wants what so many others on the team have found. It’s getting harder for him to be around the men with their significant others and he is becoming increasingly angry and withdrawn. Add to that a difficult relationship with his father and a raid that ends with an informant escaping with a duffle bag full of drugs and Michaels can barely contain his rage. Michaels tries to shoulder the blame for the team and jumps at the chance to track the man down, especially if that means working with sexy as sin bounty hunter God has brought in to do the job.
Judge Josephson is a bounty hunter and old friend of God’s from their Army days. He is a loner, preferring to work on his own with only his Great Dane, Bookem, as a partner. Same goes for his personal life; he gets what he needs when he needs it and doesn’t do love and romance.
“Partners died on you and left you to pick up the pieces of your shattered existence. Never again.�
Judge is aware that his bounty hunting days are coming to a close, Bookem is getting old and at forty-four, Judge is feeling more run down after each job and wants to take time to spend with his dying father. When God calls in a favor asking him to track down the lost informant, he can’t deny the man even when it comes down to being forced to take the sexy Michaels with him.
To say these two start off on the wrong foot is an understatement. Even though they are both completely attracted to each other, they are both bad ass alphas in their own right, so of course they can’t help but test and challenge the other. Judge thinks Michaels is a know-it-all and Michaels thinks Judge is an ass. This works well for the reader as the tension between the two quickly heats up even before either man realizes the other is gay.
A.E. Via knows how to write sexy alphas! When Judge gets Michaels to direct his anger from fighting to sex it’s a rough and explosive. Reading their fight for dominance in the bedroom, it’s a wonder they both come out of it in one piece! It’s not all rough and tumble as Michaels is a romantic at heart and he’s determined to pull some real feelings out of Judge as well. The major stumbling block in all this however is Judge, who is hanging on to old pain and is surprisingly insecure about certain things. Even though he is falling hard for Michaels, he is still not fully ready to trust his heart and let anyone completely own it again. One rash decision by Judge ends up causing Michaels more than just a broken heart.
In addition to the love story there is plenty of action as the manhunt progresses and the danger increases. For fans of the prior books, God and Day, Syn and the rest of the team are back in the mix and the Epilogue is bound to leave you with a huge smile on your face. This is definitely a worthy addition to the series, and happily not the last.
Full review originally posted at
Judge Josephson is a bounty hunter and old friend of God’s from their Army days. He is a loner, preferring to work on his own with only his Great Dane, Bookem, as a partner. Same goes for his personal life; he gets what he needs when he needs it and doesn’t do love and romance.
“Partners died on you and left you to pick up the pieces of your shattered existence. Never again.�
Judge is aware that his bounty hunting days are coming to a close, Bookem is getting old and at forty-four, Judge is feeling more run down after each job and wants to take time to spend with his dying father. When God calls in a favor asking him to track down the lost informant, he can’t deny the man even when it comes down to being forced to take the sexy Michaels with him.
To say these two start off on the wrong foot is an understatement. Even though they are both completely attracted to each other, they are both bad ass alphas in their own right, so of course they can’t help but test and challenge the other. Judge thinks Michaels is a know-it-all and Michaels thinks Judge is an ass. This works well for the reader as the tension between the two quickly heats up even before either man realizes the other is gay.
A.E. Via knows how to write sexy alphas! When Judge gets Michaels to direct his anger from fighting to sex it’s a rough and explosive. Reading their fight for dominance in the bedroom, it’s a wonder they both come out of it in one piece! It’s not all rough and tumble as Michaels is a romantic at heart and he’s determined to pull some real feelings out of Judge as well. The major stumbling block in all this however is Judge, who is hanging on to old pain and is surprisingly insecure about certain things. Even though he is falling hard for Michaels, he is still not fully ready to trust his heart and let anyone completely own it again. One rash decision by Judge ends up causing Michaels more than just a broken heart.
In addition to the love story there is plenty of action as the manhunt progresses and the danger increases. For fans of the prior books, God and Day, Syn and the rest of the team are back in the mix and the Epilogue is bound to leave you with a huge smile on your face. This is definitely a worthy addition to the series, and happily not the last.
Full review originally posted at
August 2, 2015
4.5 Stars!!
DON’T JUDGE is the first book I have read by A.E. Via and it is spectacular! Two Alphas together in a fabulously dirty romance? Yes, please! I peeked at some of the reviews for this book and noted that early copies from Amazon had some editing issues. Rest assured, all of that has been corrected.
I have not read the other books in this series and DON’T JUDGE can absolutely be read as a standalone. I actually enjoyed the police-procedure talk because there is plenty of HAWT male-on-male action in this book. The scenes between Judge and Michaels are absolutely some of the steamiest M/M scenes I have EVER read � I mean, this author can really heat up the pages! I loved how Judge thought he was too old for the sexy, younger Austin Michaels, while Michaels, in turn, thought Judge was straight.
He chanced a look at Michaels and was shocked to see him slouched and confident riding with him. He had a dark pair of aviator shades on, staring out the window with one hand propped on the door. It was almost as if he didn’t know he was hot. And damnit if that wasn’t sexy in itself.
There is a fast-paced story here and the sexy times built nicely to a fantastic relationship. While there was no Insta-love, there was an instant attraction between these two stunning, sexy men:
It was the thick, silky, straight black hair the spanned across that broad chest that had Michaels� mouth watering. Turn and look away, turn and look away. There was no way a guy like Judge was gay. If those dark eyes popped open and caught him gawking, then he was going to have a whole other set of problems.
A.E. Via’s books are new to me and I adored this one. The banter and passion between Judge and Michaels is sexy, intense and very readable. And did I mention the sex is off the charts? I loved how Judge doubted himself, and almost ruined his chances with Michaels. But there was no false or forced drama here, just real emotions between two very real men.
This was the man of Judge’s dreams, but he was fighting it all the way. He wouldn’t put himself back out there. Partners left you or they died on you; one or the other; but either way, you were left behind, devastated. Judge was too old to do devastated.
I absolutely loved DON’T JUDGE and am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
(ARC provided in return for an honest review.)
DON’T JUDGE is the first book I have read by A.E. Via and it is spectacular! Two Alphas together in a fabulously dirty romance? Yes, please! I peeked at some of the reviews for this book and noted that early copies from Amazon had some editing issues. Rest assured, all of that has been corrected.
I have not read the other books in this series and DON’T JUDGE can absolutely be read as a standalone. I actually enjoyed the police-procedure talk because there is plenty of HAWT male-on-male action in this book. The scenes between Judge and Michaels are absolutely some of the steamiest M/M scenes I have EVER read � I mean, this author can really heat up the pages! I loved how Judge thought he was too old for the sexy, younger Austin Michaels, while Michaels, in turn, thought Judge was straight.
He chanced a look at Michaels and was shocked to see him slouched and confident riding with him. He had a dark pair of aviator shades on, staring out the window with one hand propped on the door. It was almost as if he didn’t know he was hot. And damnit if that wasn’t sexy in itself.
There is a fast-paced story here and the sexy times built nicely to a fantastic relationship. While there was no Insta-love, there was an instant attraction between these two stunning, sexy men:
It was the thick, silky, straight black hair the spanned across that broad chest that had Michaels� mouth watering. Turn and look away, turn and look away. There was no way a guy like Judge was gay. If those dark eyes popped open and caught him gawking, then he was going to have a whole other set of problems.
A.E. Via’s books are new to me and I adored this one. The banter and passion between Judge and Michaels is sexy, intense and very readable. And did I mention the sex is off the charts? I loved how Judge doubted himself, and almost ruined his chances with Michaels. But there was no false or forced drama here, just real emotions between two very real men.
This was the man of Judge’s dreams, but he was fighting it all the way. He wouldn’t put himself back out there. Partners left you or they died on you; one or the other; but either way, you were left behind, devastated. Judge was too old to do devastated.
I absolutely loved DON’T JUDGE and am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
(ARC provided in return for an honest review.)
May 1, 2024
Okay. That was really satisfying. Gave me a bit of a good cry when Judge broke Michaels' heart. 😭 This has a good balance of action, heat, and teasing. Loved it! I'd really wish Michaels would seek help with his anger issues at first but I guess, all's well that ends well. Who am I to nitpick when I don't even blink on the violence in this series. 😂 I didn't expect Michaels to be the wilder and reckless of the two, though. He seemed really sweet and nice when he was still trying to get to the task force but Judge ended up being the calmer of the two. Made sense why they fit so well. ❤️
January 7, 2016
3 words for you�
READ.THIS.BOOK
A.E. does alphas like it is what her life was put on this planet for.
Michaels was an amazing surprise. Not only did you get a power top alpha, you got an even better power bottom. He could flip it like I have NEVER seen before.
*fans entire body*
I’m telling you..AH-MAZING.
The first few chapters, AE had me guessing. I was like, “OH there’s the other MC, nope…it’s just Furi.�
“Ohhhh, a sexy boxer?, NOPE, just some d-bag� LOL I was so anxious to get to Judge it was unreal.
But oooh, when he shows up� SA-WOOOOON!!!!!!!!! He was just� dark, sexy, holy sh!t alpha hot, & broody. I love a mature character, and the fact that he was in his 40’s and slightly gray was a super huge plus. The fact that his partner is a giant great dane? *stick a fork in me* I’m DONE!
This is one of those books that I will have on my brain well after I have finished reading it.
Here was my range of emotions through the book:
Poor Michaels
Where’s Judge?
Oh, oohhhh, there he is
OMG BOOKEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Holy shit that’s hot!
Ugh what an ass!!
*cries*
Holy shit that’s hot again, but I am still sad
Awwwwww
*fanning body again*
HAHAHAHA
OMG, really!? EEEEEEEEEEEEEPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP!!!!!!!!!!!!
And there you have it, Don’t Judge in a Nutshell LOL
But seriously…best alphas I have read in a hot while. I am NEVER disappointed with AE…ever.
I give this book 5 smoking stars
READ.THIS.BOOK
A.E. does alphas like it is what her life was put on this planet for.
Michaels was an amazing surprise. Not only did you get a power top alpha, you got an even better power bottom. He could flip it like I have NEVER seen before.
*fans entire body*
I’m telling you..AH-MAZING.
The first few chapters, AE had me guessing. I was like, “OH there’s the other MC, nope…it’s just Furi.�
“Ohhhh, a sexy boxer?, NOPE, just some d-bag� LOL I was so anxious to get to Judge it was unreal.
But oooh, when he shows up� SA-WOOOOON!!!!!!!!! He was just� dark, sexy, holy sh!t alpha hot, & broody. I love a mature character, and the fact that he was in his 40’s and slightly gray was a super huge plus. The fact that his partner is a giant great dane? *stick a fork in me* I’m DONE!
This is one of those books that I will have on my brain well after I have finished reading it.
Here was my range of emotions through the book:
Poor Michaels
Where’s Judge?
Oh, oohhhh, there he is
OMG BOOKEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Holy shit that’s hot!
Ugh what an ass!!
*cries*
Holy shit that’s hot again, but I am still sad
Awwwwww
*fanning body again*
HAHAHAHA
OMG, really!? EEEEEEEEEEEEEPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP!!!!!!!!!!!!
And there you have it, Don’t Judge in a Nutshell LOL
But seriously…best alphas I have read in a hot while. I am NEVER disappointed with AE…ever.
I give this book 5 smoking stars
November 23, 2019
Besides God and Days story this is probably my next favorite in this series! I liked the the tension and chemistry between Austin and Judge, both of these characters had their own insecurities and baggage to deal with and there was a time listening to this I was in tears.
The narrator Aiden Snow was phenomenal, he has one of the most sensual sexy voices, especially during intimate 🔥 scenes that I’ve ever heard!
I was happy Michaels got his hea 🥰
The narrator Aiden Snow was phenomenal, he has one of the most sensual sexy voices, especially during intimate 🔥 scenes that I’ve ever heard!
I was happy Michaels got his hea 🥰
July 13, 2015
This rating is strictly for the rating itself. If I was rating it based on the editing & proofreading then it'll been 2 stars. Seeing as I think I might have a revised edition I rated this solely based on the characters and events regarding the story. Thank goodness it was not a sap vest like the last book. I mean come on, these are all Alpha men but the last book was ridiculous. And yet, I continue on reading them. I wonder what that says about me.
I enjoyed Austin & Judge, happy that someone had a normal damn name for once. LOL. I really liked the chemistry both guys had with one another. I liked seeing some familiar faces. I enjoyed it for the most part. I can't take away that the authors knows how to write some steamy parts. I can't wait for God & Day stories.
I enjoyed Austin & Judge, happy that someone had a normal damn name for once. LOL. I really liked the chemistry both guys had with one another. I liked seeing some familiar faces. I enjoyed it for the most part. I can't take away that the authors knows how to write some steamy parts. I can't wait for God & Day stories.
August 26, 2020
5 sexy swoony stars audio!!!!
4 escapism at its best stars story!!!!
4 escapism at its best stars story!!!!
February 15, 2023
Fast-paced with a bit of angsty drama
This book was very entertaining and I've only dropped a star off because it got a little bit overly dramatic for me at the 'third act' crisis point.
Otherwise I very much appreciated the push and pull of Austin and Judge's relationship as they fratched and argued their way into love.
This is super hot too as they flip around as much in the bedroom as they do with their friendship.
And, finally, a couple of nice mothers!
This book was very entertaining and I've only dropped a star off because it got a little bit overly dramatic for me at the 'third act' crisis point.
Otherwise I very much appreciated the push and pull of Austin and Judge's relationship as they fratched and argued their way into love.
This is super hot too as they flip around as much in the bedroom as they do with their friendship.
And, finally, a couple of nice mothers!
September 30, 2021
My second book for this month's SH and another winner, a great action packed romance! Bounty hunter Judge and narcotics Detective Austin are working on a case together, traveling by car from Atlanta to Florida in the hopes to catch a fleeing criminal.
And to see them at first not even getting along, keeping distance and then finding together nonetheless was a sometimes fun, sometimes hot read I really enjoyed.
Two strong characters, perfect for each other. :)
And to see them at first not even getting along, keeping distance and then finding together nonetheless was a sometimes fun, sometimes hot read I really enjoyed.
Two strong characters, perfect for each other. :)
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March 6, 2024Like book three I won't rate it because the problem was me
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