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Up to Trouble #3
Roughed Up
Previous Shacked Up
FBI Special Agent Aaron Pearce and his lover Mark Beecher are taking a well-deserved vacation relaxing on the beaches of Barbados Island. They spend lazy days in the sun, on scooters seeing the sites, or in their room making love.
When Mark sees a young girl in a bar who may be in danger, he begins an informal investigation into her situation, even as Pearce reminds him they are not citizens and have no legal power on the island. Mark is determined, however, and, while investigating on his own, is taken captive by a sex slavery ring.
Pearce panics when Mark goes missing. He has a good idea what happened to Mark and who has taken him, but he cannot prove it. While working with the Barbados Royal Police Force, Pearce realizes he has become the detective's prime suspect, and understands he needs to conduct his own personal investigation if he has any chance of finding Mark before his lover either sold into sex slavery or murdered.
FBI Special Agent Aaron Pearce and his lover Mark Beecher are taking a well-deserved vacation relaxing on the beaches of Barbados Island. They spend lazy days in the sun, on scooters seeing the sites, or in their room making love.
When Mark sees a young girl in a bar who may be in danger, he begins an informal investigation into her situation, even as Pearce reminds him they are not citizens and have no legal power on the island. Mark is determined, however, and, while investigating on his own, is taken captive by a sex slavery ring.
Pearce panics when Mark goes missing. He has a good idea what happened to Mark and who has taken him, but he cannot prove it. While working with the Barbados Royal Police Force, Pearce realizes he has become the detective's prime suspect, and understands he needs to conduct his own personal investigation if he has any chance of finding Mark before his lover either sold into sex slavery or murdered.
130 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2013
6 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
Hank Edwards
79Ìýbooks222ÌýfollowersHank Edwards (he/him) has been writing gay fiction for more than twenty years. He has published over thirty novels and dozens of short stories. His books fall into many sub-genres, including romance, rom-com, contemporary, paranormal, suspense, mystery, and wacky comedy. He has written a number of series such as the suspenseful Up to Trouble, funny and spooky paranormal out for you gay romance Critter Catchers, Old West historical horror of Venom Valley, the erotic and funny Fluffers, Inc. series, and the funny and thrilling Lacetown Murder Mysteries series co-written with Deanna Wadsworth. Under the pen name R. G. Thomas, he’s published a young adult urban fantasy gay romance series called The Town of Superstition. No matter what genre he writes, Hank likes to keep things sweet, steamy, and fun.
Join his author group on Facebook (), visit his website at or send along an email to [email protected].
Join his author group on Facebook (), visit his website at or send along an email to [email protected].
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
May 9, 2013
What a wild ride this story turned out to be. I was used to Aaron Pearce and Mark Beecher finding themselves in dangerous situations BUT HOLY MOLEY! I was on the edge of my seat from about 30% until the end. Could not put it down until it was over. I was quite absorbed in this entire story and I loved it...even as I was being traumatized.
It was awesome seeing the emotions and love between these two. It just made what they went through so much more real, but also so much harder to read. The terror that Mark is feeling is matched only by the horror that Pearce feels when he realized what had happened to Mark. Pearce was on his own, the police weren't much help and he knew it was up to him to save Mark, and fast, before he was lost and disappeared forever.
I think everyone has heard about human trafficing and the sex slavery ring that is still going on in places around the world, but seriously, who really thinks about that when they are vacationing in paradise? I will for now on, that's for sure. The details about how easily this could happen are staggering.
Fortunately, Pearce is one hell of s stubborn FBI agent who is one of the best at investigative work. And knowing that it was all on him to help his lover, whom he realizes really is the love of his life, just made him that much more determined to find Mark, no matter how long it took. He would never give up and he didn't. Pearce may have started the series as a cold and shut-off guy, but his unexpected love for Mark has made him whole and no one was going to take that from him.
Highly recommended to anyone who wants a little edge-of-your-seat reading, one that grabs you by the throat and won't let go until the last page. Excellent, simply excellent.
It was awesome seeing the emotions and love between these two. It just made what they went through so much more real, but also so much harder to read. The terror that Mark is feeling is matched only by the horror that Pearce feels when he realized what had happened to Mark. Pearce was on his own, the police weren't much help and he knew it was up to him to save Mark, and fast, before he was lost and disappeared forever.
I think everyone has heard about human trafficing and the sex slavery ring that is still going on in places around the world, but seriously, who really thinks about that when they are vacationing in paradise? I will for now on, that's for sure. The details about how easily this could happen are staggering.
Fortunately, Pearce is one hell of s stubborn FBI agent who is one of the best at investigative work. And knowing that it was all on him to help his lover, whom he realizes really is the love of his life, just made him that much more determined to find Mark, no matter how long it took. He would never give up and he didn't. Pearce may have started the series as a cold and shut-off guy, but his unexpected love for Mark has made him whole and no one was going to take that from him.
Highly recommended to anyone who wants a little edge-of-your-seat reading, one that grabs you by the throat and won't let go until the last page. Excellent, simply excellent.
June 15, 2013
3.5 stars
I have to be honest with you. I didn’t love the first 2 books of the series. When there are so many better pretty-boy-dating-a-cop stories out there, it was hard for me to give books 1 and 2 more than 3 stars. The thing is: I’m a sucker for pretty-boy-dating-a-cop stories though. And I’ve become attached to the MC’s Mark and Aaron enough to read on. Turns out, book 3, “Roughed Up�, is the best of the series and solidly entertaining.
Mark and Aaron decide to take a vacation in Barbados. The setting is romantic and without all the pressure that their relationship had been under to date, the 2 are able to relax and enjoy each other. When some unexpected danger in the form of a sex/slave trade comes their way, Mark and Aaron are forced, yet again, to put on their “good guy� hats and save the day.
What actually made this book so enjoyable was how surprisingly emotional it was. From the 2 MC’s coming to realize how much they’ve grown to love each other, to the frustration and irritation attached when a couple is really getting to know one another, to the fear and concern when facing true danger� I hadn’t anticipated enjoying this as much as I did. And I like Mark and Aaron more than ever now!
This book does not work as a standalone � you definitely have to read books 1 & 2 beforehand. The series as a whole is decently entertaining with the payoff being a solid book 3.
Full review at:
May 9, 2013
Yay! Another sequel to the fabulous ! While I found the second sequel to pale in comparison to the first book, I found this third book to be equally as exciting and hot as the first. Another wonderful tale of FBI Special Agent Aaron Pearce and his lover Mark Beecher. Those silly boys find themselves in another pickle!
Highly recommended to all fans of this series, that goes without saying, and the entire series is also recommended to all lovers of M/M romance. These boys are sinfully hot and the adventures they find themselves in are riveting. I hope keeps them coming!
September 9, 2018
Number 3 in the 'Up to Trouble' series. 4.5 stars and 
Poor old Mark....he doesn't seem to have had a lot of luck since getting involved with hunky Aaron Pearce does he?? This book takes up where 'Shacked Up' finished....Aaron has been suspended (yet again) for , and Mark no longer has a job as his boss was shot at the end of the last book...but sod it, we're going to go on a cheap package tour holiday to Barbados (ah Typically Tropical, whatever happened to you one-hit wonders and that song in the 80's?), forget all our cares and woes
and have a bloody good time!!
Well, that was the plan was anyway, and an extremely good plan it was...but after some sizzling hot sex on the beach one night...well, it would have to be at night, Barbados has laws against homosexuality as well you know, things start to go downhill rapidly....sex traffickers are prowling the island for young girls, and Mark thinks he recognises someone that went missing from back home...gulp!!
I'll leave you to find out what happens, but it was nail-biting
stuff and I felt quite worn out when I finished!! Come on Mr Author...give these two guys a break please!!
Poor old Mark....he doesn't seem to have had a lot of luck since getting involved with hunky Aaron Pearce does he?? This book takes up where 'Shacked Up' finished....Aaron has been suspended (yet again) for , and Mark no longer has a job as his boss was shot at the end of the last book...but sod it, we're going to go on a cheap package tour holiday to Barbados (ah Typically Tropical, whatever happened to you one-hit wonders and that song in the 80's?), forget all our cares and woes
and have a bloody good time!!Well, that was the plan was anyway, and an extremely good plan it was...but after some sizzling hot sex on the beach one night...well, it would have to be at night, Barbados has laws against homosexuality as well you know, things start to go downhill rapidly....sex traffickers are prowling the island for young girls, and Mark thinks he recognises someone that went missing from back home...gulp!!
I'll leave you to find out what happens, but it was nail-biting
stuff and I felt quite worn out when I finished!! Come on Mr Author...give these two guys a break please!!
May 20, 2013
Roughed Up, the third book in the Up To Trouble series, is the best book in the series so far.
Pearce and Mark are on vacation in Barbados, they try to relax and enjoy their free time. But even when they are on vacation they can’t keep out of trouble...
Sometimes I wondered how old Mark really is. At times he acts like a child refusing to think about the consequences of his actions. How can he sniff around for answers that even the locals wouldn’t ask, when he's on a foreign island? Aaron tries to hold him back and ends up in danger himself.
I highly recommend the series to those who love action and suspense with plenty of danger. Some hot loving isn't missing, the characters are adorable and the storyline is great.
5 well-deserved stars! Can't wait for the next book. The issues with Morgan are still unresolved and I'm sure our heros are going to pass their time with hunting new (or old) bad guys. ^^
*Thumbs up*
May 12, 2013
...and can make for one hell of a ride...
Roughed Up, book #3 in the Up To Trouble series, is the best book in the series so far. Mark and Pearce are even better. You do not have to have read either or to enjoy Roughed Up. It never hurts to have read the previous books to see the developing relationship, but it isn't necessary.
This book has it all -
Passionate sex
Romance
Humour
A couple working on their relationship in such a relatable way
Mystery
Edge-of-your-seat suspense
An ever-timely social commentary within fiction
I'm not normally good with series centred around one couple but I love Mark and Pearce, and this book knocked it out of the ballpark. I'm looking forward to more now. Full review to come at On Top Down Under Book Reviews -
May 11, 2013
This was the best book in the series yet. I love Pierce and Mark. The two of them can be hot, sweet and fun to read. People won't be disappointed if they have read the other books in the series.
May 10, 2013
4 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
This story is part of a series and is best read in order. Aaron/Pearce and Mark are on vacation in Barbados, it’s a time for them to relax and enjoy the sites, but visiting a village and a restaurant sets Mark to wondering about the plight of a young woman who he sees at the bar across the road. Aaron tells him straight that there is nothing they can do, but Mark can’t let it go and storms off after words with Aaron. Aaron is enjoying his time with Mark although he still has moments of awareness of his surroundings, Aaron begins to worry when Mark disappears; he just knows it has something to do with that bar. Aaron soon learns he will have to find Mark by himself and sets out to locate him, and what he discovers sends dread through him.
This is a great action, suspense story that shows that even when they are on vacation Mark and Aaron can’t keep out of trouble. Aaron is on suspension, Mark is out of work and a week away from all their troubles sounds fantastic, but Mark is dragged into a sex slave ring when he looks for a young woman he spotted at a bar. Aaron is panicked and has to investigate himself when he can’t seem to get the Barbados Royal Police Force to take Mark’s disappearance seriously. But finding Mark will be harder than he hoped when all he has to go on is the owner of the bar.
Well, how much trouble can one man get into by storming off in a huff? The answer� life and death trouble. I thought this story was brilliant, there was action, suspense, hot sex, arguments, doubts, guilt, recriminations, attempted escapes, rescues and love. Aaron and Mark are very happy together but they keep having mini blowouts, each man examines their relationship, but the danger they face make them realise that the other man is it for him. The storyline is great and keeps you turning the pages, the sex is really hot (I love beach sex) the suspense is a bit of a killer as you chew nails and wonder if Aaron will find Mark in time.
I will admit to having to wonder at times exactly how old Mark really was, because at times he acted like a child refusing to think about the consequences of his actions when he is on a strange island, in a strange country and is sniffing around for answers that even the locals wouldn’t ask. Aaron tried to rein him in and ended up in danger himself but bless the man he loves Mark and sets off to find him carefully himself. The relationship between Mark and Aaron is just a touch strained at first, as both of them are still getting used to being together all the time, but they seem to be coming along just fine.
I will recommend this to those who love action, suspense, with plenty of danger, some very hot loving, great characters, a great storyline and a very happy rescue and ending.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
This story is part of a series and is best read in order. Aaron/Pearce and Mark are on vacation in Barbados, it’s a time for them to relax and enjoy the sites, but visiting a village and a restaurant sets Mark to wondering about the plight of a young woman who he sees at the bar across the road. Aaron tells him straight that there is nothing they can do, but Mark can’t let it go and storms off after words with Aaron. Aaron is enjoying his time with Mark although he still has moments of awareness of his surroundings, Aaron begins to worry when Mark disappears; he just knows it has something to do with that bar. Aaron soon learns he will have to find Mark by himself and sets out to locate him, and what he discovers sends dread through him.
This is a great action, suspense story that shows that even when they are on vacation Mark and Aaron can’t keep out of trouble. Aaron is on suspension, Mark is out of work and a week away from all their troubles sounds fantastic, but Mark is dragged into a sex slave ring when he looks for a young woman he spotted at a bar. Aaron is panicked and has to investigate himself when he can’t seem to get the Barbados Royal Police Force to take Mark’s disappearance seriously. But finding Mark will be harder than he hoped when all he has to go on is the owner of the bar.
Well, how much trouble can one man get into by storming off in a huff? The answer� life and death trouble. I thought this story was brilliant, there was action, suspense, hot sex, arguments, doubts, guilt, recriminations, attempted escapes, rescues and love. Aaron and Mark are very happy together but they keep having mini blowouts, each man examines their relationship, but the danger they face make them realise that the other man is it for him. The storyline is great and keeps you turning the pages, the sex is really hot (I love beach sex) the suspense is a bit of a killer as you chew nails and wonder if Aaron will find Mark in time.
I will admit to having to wonder at times exactly how old Mark really was, because at times he acted like a child refusing to think about the consequences of his actions when he is on a strange island, in a strange country and is sniffing around for answers that even the locals wouldn’t ask. Aaron tried to rein him in and ended up in danger himself but bless the man he loves Mark and sets off to find him carefully himself. The relationship between Mark and Aaron is just a touch strained at first, as both of them are still getting used to being together all the time, but they seem to be coming along just fine.
I will recommend this to those who love action, suspense, with plenty of danger, some very hot loving, great characters, a great storyline and a very happy rescue and ending.
April 5, 2014
Number three in the series is not my favorite, but it is still a good story and a good read. It touches on the kidnapping of tourists in vacation destinations like Barbados. This does convey the scary prospect of being kidnapped and no one ever knowing what happened.
I would have loved for there to be more exploration of Pierce and Mark's relationship. Their relationship did evolve some in this, but I wanted more detail, more depth.
I would have loved for there to be more exploration of Pierce and Mark's relationship. Their relationship did evolve some in this, but I wanted more detail, more depth.
May 15, 2013
While I couldn't wait to find out what is going on with these two I found myself a little disappointed.
Spoilers...
They are apart more than together is this book. Your left with important questions unanswered.
This felt like a chapter or two and an epilogue were missing.
Spoilers...
They are apart more than together is this book. Your left with important questions unanswered.
This felt like a chapter or two and an epilogue were missing.
January 20, 2015
This is a great series. The MCs are a great couple. I've enjoyed their relationship develop from Books 1 through 3. The crime aspects are also well done.
February 25, 2014
Can't say it better than Isaac, so I won't even try it.
August 24, 2016
Mark and Pearce of 'Roughed Up' by Hank Edwards, have come a long way in their tumultuous relationship from their first tentative steps in the beginning. Through their problems both internal and external, it hasn't been an easy path. They've had to learn to trust each other and learn to depend on each other which isn't easy for either one of them. When they go on a much needed vacation, they can't just forget who they are, especially Mark. He can't shut himself down like Pierce can due to years in the FBI. When they run into someone he thinks needs help, he just can't let it go even though Pearce reminds him they are taking a holiday and should not get involved. He doesn't listen to Pearce, follows his conscience, and they both end up in trouble—again.
Mark is stubborn and often thinks with his heart more than his brain. Even though he knows it's dangerous, he wants to prove something to Pearce. Mark knows he's right about the girl being in trouble and goes snooping around on his own, trying to get the evidence he needs to prove it. He can't just turn his back on her. Not stopping to think it through, Mark places himself in the lion's den and gets into a serious situation of his own, one he can't get out of alone. By doing so, he's not able to help anyone including himself; he also puts Pearce in danger because, come hell or high water, Pearce is going to move mountains if he has to to save the man he's finally realized he can't live without. Mark's mistreatment, longing for Pearce, and his regrets broke my heart, but his bravery and determination to escape his prison was not only admirable, it was impressive. I don't know if I could have been so driven regardless of the situation. His man was out there and Mark knew Pearce would be doing everything possible to find him. Mark was going to get back to him. In his mind, no other outcome was acceptable.
Even though Pearce comes across as rough and tough, it's obvious that Mark has really gotten under his skin. Through all this, Pearce realizes that there's no going back to being alone. The danger they are in only enhances his feelings. He admits that, although he may not know much about how to have a relationship, he damn well wants to try. He can no longer imagine a life without Mark. His FBI training comes in handy, of course, as he ends up tracking down the men he thinks took Mark. Whether or not Pearce will admit it, he's terrified something is going to happen to him regardless of his efforts, but he won't stop until he either finds and frees Mark, or until he is dead. Even through a beating which would put most men down for a long time, he pushes on, refusing to stop just as Mark fights through his pain and drugs because he knows if he gives in, he will never see Pearce again.
Of the three stories in the series, this is my favorite. Hank keeps us emotionally riled up, on the edge of our seats, creating scenarios full of adventure and intrigue, while, at the same time, developing the relationship between Mark and Pearce in an amazingly romantic way amidst the dark turmoil going on around them. Their love for each other was so intense, it was palatable. It made me cry to think that these two men who were finally at a point separately and together would still have to go through so much pain and anxiety to have a chance to truly be together. I found myself holding my breath through the emotional roller coaster which transpired.
As this book is the third in a series called Up To Trouble, I highly suggest that you read the books in sequential order. For those who enjoy action, intrigue, angst, love, and loyalty; one that also shows us the ugliness of the sex slavery trade, you may enjoy this book. Thanks, Hank, for the rush of emotions in this fantastic story. I'm looking forward to reading more about Mark and Pearce.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on .
Mark is stubborn and often thinks with his heart more than his brain. Even though he knows it's dangerous, he wants to prove something to Pearce. Mark knows he's right about the girl being in trouble and goes snooping around on his own, trying to get the evidence he needs to prove it. He can't just turn his back on her. Not stopping to think it through, Mark places himself in the lion's den and gets into a serious situation of his own, one he can't get out of alone. By doing so, he's not able to help anyone including himself; he also puts Pearce in danger because, come hell or high water, Pearce is going to move mountains if he has to to save the man he's finally realized he can't live without. Mark's mistreatment, longing for Pearce, and his regrets broke my heart, but his bravery and determination to escape his prison was not only admirable, it was impressive. I don't know if I could have been so driven regardless of the situation. His man was out there and Mark knew Pearce would be doing everything possible to find him. Mark was going to get back to him. In his mind, no other outcome was acceptable.
Even though Pearce comes across as rough and tough, it's obvious that Mark has really gotten under his skin. Through all this, Pearce realizes that there's no going back to being alone. The danger they are in only enhances his feelings. He admits that, although he may not know much about how to have a relationship, he damn well wants to try. He can no longer imagine a life without Mark. His FBI training comes in handy, of course, as he ends up tracking down the men he thinks took Mark. Whether or not Pearce will admit it, he's terrified something is going to happen to him regardless of his efforts, but he won't stop until he either finds and frees Mark, or until he is dead. Even through a beating which would put most men down for a long time, he pushes on, refusing to stop just as Mark fights through his pain and drugs because he knows if he gives in, he will never see Pearce again.
Of the three stories in the series, this is my favorite. Hank keeps us emotionally riled up, on the edge of our seats, creating scenarios full of adventure and intrigue, while, at the same time, developing the relationship between Mark and Pearce in an amazingly romantic way amidst the dark turmoil going on around them. Their love for each other was so intense, it was palatable. It made me cry to think that these two men who were finally at a point separately and together would still have to go through so much pain and anxiety to have a chance to truly be together. I found myself holding my breath through the emotional roller coaster which transpired.
As this book is the third in a series called Up To Trouble, I highly suggest that you read the books in sequential order. For those who enjoy action, intrigue, angst, love, and loyalty; one that also shows us the ugliness of the sex slavery trade, you may enjoy this book. Thanks, Hank, for the rush of emotions in this fantastic story. I'm looking forward to reading more about Mark and Pearce.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on .
August 2, 2013
4.75 stars
Hank Edwards delivers once again with a third winning mystery, Roughed Up in his Up to Trouble series. This installment picks up with Pearce and Mark on vacation in Barbados and, in typical fashion, trouble follows them. However this time, the situation these two men find themselves in, threatens to destroy everything they have so painfully and slowly built between them. This time, one of them, may not survive.
Dark, gritty, angst and heart pumping action--all these words could be aptly used to describe Roughed Up by Hand Edwards. This one had me wanting to look away from the kindle and try to still my rapidly pumping heart. It was sooooo good! While on vacation in the Caribbean, Mark leads Pearce on a tour of the island and ends up stumbling upon what appears to be a slavery sex ring run out of a local bar. With only a glimpse at a girl that Mark could swear he knew, but whom had gone missing while on vacation with her family, he is convinced that something is wrong and cannot let go of the nagging feeling that the girl he saw is indeed an old classmate, Summer Barrington.
In order to assuage Mark, Pearce agrees to return to the bar and ask some questions, but they are met with hostility and silence and no trace of the girl. Mark promises to “let it go�, but he can’t and after a heated argument with Pearce, Mark takes off on his own to investigate the bar again---and disappears.
Ok, no more plot line clues, because you definitely need to read this one yourself—it is amazing!! This series, by Hank Edwards, just keeps getting better and better. Once more, there is no easy relationship magic sprinkled over Mark and Pearce—they struggle, as do most couples, and we hear their inner dialogue, their doubts, their anger and their love. This couple is perhaps two of the most well written characters I have read to date. They are so believable, their words and thoughts steeped in reality and compelling to read each and ever time.
And the story…oh my, the story. My heart was literally in my throat the entire time. The visceral feel to what happens to Mark, the gut-clenching fear it provokes in the reader, and the horrible feeling that even though, the drama is over, the long-lasting affects may impact Mark and Pearce of the rest of their lives—it was nothing short of stunning.
So, in turn, the two small points that made me shake my head a bit and wonder why the author chose to move in that direction were actually amplified due to the excellence of the rest of the novel. Without giving too much away, the ending felt rushed…I could not wrap my mind around how quickly Mark recovered and desired intimacy with Pearce—it really was just too soon in my mind. Also, the unresolved aspect of that character, Summer Barrington really jarred me. Unless I missed it, I never felt her story was resolved.
While these two elements may seem big to you, in totality and held up against how truly excellent this novel was overall, they became minor points. Roughed Up was an incredible story that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire way! I highly recommend this story to you—in fact, this series is just one that keeps getting better and better.
Hank Edwards delivers once again with a third winning mystery, Roughed Up in his Up to Trouble series. This installment picks up with Pearce and Mark on vacation in Barbados and, in typical fashion, trouble follows them. However this time, the situation these two men find themselves in, threatens to destroy everything they have so painfully and slowly built between them. This time, one of them, may not survive.
Dark, gritty, angst and heart pumping action--all these words could be aptly used to describe Roughed Up by Hand Edwards. This one had me wanting to look away from the kindle and try to still my rapidly pumping heart. It was sooooo good! While on vacation in the Caribbean, Mark leads Pearce on a tour of the island and ends up stumbling upon what appears to be a slavery sex ring run out of a local bar. With only a glimpse at a girl that Mark could swear he knew, but whom had gone missing while on vacation with her family, he is convinced that something is wrong and cannot let go of the nagging feeling that the girl he saw is indeed an old classmate, Summer Barrington.
In order to assuage Mark, Pearce agrees to return to the bar and ask some questions, but they are met with hostility and silence and no trace of the girl. Mark promises to “let it go�, but he can’t and after a heated argument with Pearce, Mark takes off on his own to investigate the bar again---and disappears.
Ok, no more plot line clues, because you definitely need to read this one yourself—it is amazing!! This series, by Hank Edwards, just keeps getting better and better. Once more, there is no easy relationship magic sprinkled over Mark and Pearce—they struggle, as do most couples, and we hear their inner dialogue, their doubts, their anger and their love. This couple is perhaps two of the most well written characters I have read to date. They are so believable, their words and thoughts steeped in reality and compelling to read each and ever time.
And the story…oh my, the story. My heart was literally in my throat the entire time. The visceral feel to what happens to Mark, the gut-clenching fear it provokes in the reader, and the horrible feeling that even though, the drama is over, the long-lasting affects may impact Mark and Pearce of the rest of their lives—it was nothing short of stunning.
So, in turn, the two small points that made me shake my head a bit and wonder why the author chose to move in that direction were actually amplified due to the excellence of the rest of the novel. Without giving too much away, the ending felt rushed…I could not wrap my mind around how quickly Mark recovered and desired intimacy with Pearce—it really was just too soon in my mind. Also, the unresolved aspect of that character, Summer Barrington really jarred me. Unless I missed it, I never felt her story was resolved.
While these two elements may seem big to you, in totality and held up against how truly excellent this novel was overall, they became minor points. Roughed Up was an incredible story that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire way! I highly recommend this story to you—in fact, this series is just one that keeps getting better and better.
July 19, 2013
Vacationing on the beaches of Barbados Island does not impede Mark Beecher’s curiosity. However, Mark’s curiosity is the source of his being kidnapped and his lover, FBI Special Agent Aaron Pearce rushing to Mark’s rescue, along with capturing a sex slavery ring.
Roughed Up is the third book in the Up to Trouble series. Mark and Pearce first met in Holed Up when Pearce is assigned to protect Mark Beecher, who was a witness to an attempted terrorist attack in Detroit. The time they spent together evolved into Mark and Pearce becoming lovers. Shacked Up features Mark who is a chef, moves into Pearce’s Washington, DC apartment, as well as getting a job catering prestigious parties. The catering company’s criminal activities lead to Mark’s unemployment and Pearce’s suspension. Pearce, who has never been in an actual relationship, is still learning to take into account Mark’s feelings before making judgmental statements. Mark worries Pearce will end their relationship. Drugged and held hostage for two days, Mark has more reasons than ever to be anxious about the endurance of their commitment.
Hank Edwards� Roughed Up features the dangers of traveling outside of the United States. For example the laws of Barbados prohibit public displays of homosexuality. Slavery investigations are not fully enforced unless a possible worldwide embarrassment is likely to occur. Roughed Up is an intriguing consciousness saga that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Roughed Up is the third book in the Up to Trouble series. Mark and Pearce first met in Holed Up when Pearce is assigned to protect Mark Beecher, who was a witness to an attempted terrorist attack in Detroit. The time they spent together evolved into Mark and Pearce becoming lovers. Shacked Up features Mark who is a chef, moves into Pearce’s Washington, DC apartment, as well as getting a job catering prestigious parties. The catering company’s criminal activities lead to Mark’s unemployment and Pearce’s suspension. Pearce, who has never been in an actual relationship, is still learning to take into account Mark’s feelings before making judgmental statements. Mark worries Pearce will end their relationship. Drugged and held hostage for two days, Mark has more reasons than ever to be anxious about the endurance of their commitment.
Hank Edwards� Roughed Up features the dangers of traveling outside of the United States. For example the laws of Barbados prohibit public displays of homosexuality. Slavery investigations are not fully enforced unless a possible worldwide embarrassment is likely to occur. Roughed Up is an intriguing consciousness saga that I thoroughly enjoyed.
May 23, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed all three books in this series. The last one was by far the best. Our boys are on vacation in beautiful Barbados. This trip should have been almost like a honeymoon. Time for them to rest and relax and maybe make their relationship stronger but noooo. Not only are they in another country, but special agent Pearce has no jurisdiction and no backup if anything goes wrong.
Mark thinks he recognized a missing young girl from his high school days standing in front of a bar. Something looks wrong and the man standing next to her gives off all kinds of bad vibes. With an uneasy feeling they left and went back to their hotel. Mark couldn't stop thinking about the girls face. After a ridiculous misunderstanding with Pearce, Mark storms out of the Hotel to clear his head. Instead of just going for a walk he ends up back at the bar and no one knows he went there alone.
I wanted to smack him upside his head. Seriously, he's a chef for Christ-sake! What was he thinking??? Then I wanted to smack Pearce also for being a dumbass. The story gets very intense when Pearce discovers Mark is officially missing. All he knows is he loves Mark and he is not leaving this island without him. So he sets off to locate his lover by going to the one place he should not have gone back to on his own.
I give this book 4.15 stars.
Mark thinks he recognized a missing young girl from his high school days standing in front of a bar. Something looks wrong and the man standing next to her gives off all kinds of bad vibes. With an uneasy feeling they left and went back to their hotel. Mark couldn't stop thinking about the girls face. After a ridiculous misunderstanding with Pearce, Mark storms out of the Hotel to clear his head. Instead of just going for a walk he ends up back at the bar and no one knows he went there alone.
I wanted to smack him upside his head. Seriously, he's a chef for Christ-sake! What was he thinking??? Then I wanted to smack Pearce also for being a dumbass. The story gets very intense when Pearce discovers Mark is officially missing. All he knows is he loves Mark and he is not leaving this island without him. So he sets off to locate his lover by going to the one place he should not have gone back to on his own.
I give this book 4.15 stars.
June 10, 2013
I read all 3 of this series in a day. I think I liked them ;) What can I say, Aaron is hot! I do find they are too expensive for the length, but I am glad I went out of my comfort zone to buy them.
This one was scary for me. Because it happens all the time and the locals just turn their heads and are paid off not to know anything. It scary! I've read and researched so much about sex slavery lately it's ingrained my head. Aaron said it best, everybody knows "Natalie Halloway" but what about all the others?
I REALLY wish this one was longer. I wanted to know more about the ending.
Is there going to be a 4th? I want more!!!!!!
This one was scary for me. Because it happens all the time and the locals just turn their heads and are paid off not to know anything. It scary! I've read and researched so much about sex slavery lately it's ingrained my head. Aaron said it best, everybody knows "Natalie Halloway" but what about all the others?
I REALLY wish this one was longer. I wanted to know more about the ending.
Is there going to be a 4th? I want more!!!!!!
March 26, 2016
I felt let down on this one. I wanted to quit reading after the first 25 pages because it was all about the having sex and I'm fine with that a healthy relationship needs to include that. Problem was nothing else was being included except for glimmers of a potentially crumbling relationship so I told myself to be fair and stick it out. I did to the end and that was the redeeming value in this story about the last half of the book had a story a plot and held my interest, but even the last half of this story didn't give me back the connection that I had thought these two shared in the first 2 books, if there is another book coming I will certainly be willing to read it because I was left with a couple of unanswered questions and I'm hoping that Mark and Aaron will reconnect and once again be the couple that I liked so much in the previous books.
In the end I gave this book 2.5 stars but rounded it up to 3 because I felt like the story made a strong improvement during the last half.
In the end I gave this book 2.5 stars but rounded it up to 3 because I felt like the story made a strong improvement during the last half.
November 15, 2015
When the going gets tough the tough gets going ( even in paradise).
Although a novella this manages to be a taut thriller with good characterization.
This book is best approached having read the two earlier books to appreciate the journey the two main protagonists have made to date.
The book is both an analysis of Aaron and Pierce's relationship - these are two very different people who have something good together but are emotionally wired on different planes trying to navigate being in a relationship. As well it is story about what man can do to man when he chooses to not see his worth by dehumanizing another.
Spoiler alert, this book concerns human slavery although some readers may have seen Aaron as weak in past books, he is always strong in the moments that counts.
Hank Edwards has an easy style which i chi draws you and makes you care. I hope three will be another addition to this series.
Although a novella this manages to be a taut thriller with good characterization.
This book is best approached having read the two earlier books to appreciate the journey the two main protagonists have made to date.
The book is both an analysis of Aaron and Pierce's relationship - these are two very different people who have something good together but are emotionally wired on different planes trying to navigate being in a relationship. As well it is story about what man can do to man when he chooses to not see his worth by dehumanizing another.
Spoiler alert, this book concerns human slavery although some readers may have seen Aaron as weak in past books, he is always strong in the moments that counts.
Hank Edwards has an easy style which i chi draws you and makes you care. I hope three will be another addition to this series.
May 3, 2017
Roughed up
Unless this was written far in the past, mark has to be at least 30, way too old physically and psychologically to be sold for sex trafficking.
I hate that they're fighting. It's realistic and its a relief from the usual M/M perfection but it's still hard.
They wouldn't be able to take girls from resorts that frequently and it not be noticed. Backpackers maybe, but Turks in resorts have money and families who will look for them. It would be too risky to take them that often.
Wonderful, perfect peril. Great action and thrills.
5 stars
Unless this was written far in the past, mark has to be at least 30, way too old physically and psychologically to be sold for sex trafficking.
I hate that they're fighting. It's realistic and its a relief from the usual M/M perfection but it's still hard.
They wouldn't be able to take girls from resorts that frequently and it not be noticed. Backpackers maybe, but Turks in resorts have money and families who will look for them. It would be too risky to take them that often.
Wonderful, perfect peril. Great action and thrills.
5 stars
June 3, 2013
A solid 5 stars--Edwards kicked it up a notch in this third book of the series. This was a very emotional read. The angst level was significantly higher than the previous two. Once I hit the half-way mark, I could not put the book down. All else stopped until I reached the end. Although there is no major cliffhanger, there are several issues waiting to be addressed. I hope this means more books are in the offing.
August 28, 2016
What a fantastic story! I've loved Mark in the last two books but have been slow to warm up to Pearce. I'm now an Aaron Pearce fan! He's grown a heart, and loves his Mark.... This book had action and drama, I was quite nervous for Mark, but Pearce comes through. There were seriously hot sexy moments, and some very tender ones as well. That tenderness has been missing from the last two books. So happy to see it now.
I liked the first two, I LOVED this one!
I liked the first two, I LOVED this one!
May 8, 2013
I've really enjoyed this series, and I'm so glad that the third installment didn't change that for me. Great writing, action packed, with just the right amount of sexy, this story had me at the edge of my seat quite a few times. I love that! So, yep, definitely recommended.
May 14, 2013
Another awesome Mark and Pearce adventure. I was a little worried at one point, but it ended just as I hoped. Love this series. I can't wait for the next story. And I especially can't wait for Robert Morgan to get caught!
October 18, 2013
On page 50 and all I can say is. ARE YOU FREAKING STUPID OR SOMETHING? I can't handle characters being this dumb. I'm gonna have to put the book down for a bit.
Ok I finished it. Yep. He was that idiotic.
Ok I finished it. Yep. He was that idiotic.
June 24, 2013
Oh man, this is one scary book! There were times I had to set it down and walk away. But then I'd worry about the guys and have to go back and make sure they made it through safely. All I can say is that Hank better be writing quickly. I need to know what happens next!
September 15, 2013
This one was the best of the series. The suspense was incredible and I had to keep myself from skipping ahead to see what was going to happen.
May 18, 2013
This was a really good book. I liked it a lot more than the previous two.
June 13, 2013
Yeah. Hank had me at Cou-Cou and fried flying fish. Gotta go make some of that now. Great to see the boys again. Good story.
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July 2, 20133.5 Stars
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