NY Nights: Bodyguard Edition, 2
Love like yours is seductive…
Mason Naylor is the gruff CEO of Spartan Security and at forty-five, he’s all work. The one light in his life is his friend, Dax Martin—a twenty-seven-year-old Broadway star and the kind-hearted man he’s secretly in love with. But their age gap and the fear that Dax is ready to move on to a Hollywood career has Mason holding tight to his long-held feelings.
Love like yours is sweet…
Dax Martin is a Broadway actor on the rise. He’s endured his share of personal struggles over the past year, but he’s come out stronger. Dax knows the sensitive man behind Mason’s badass exterior and his longtime crush can’t wait another minute. What’s a little white lie if it means helping the man you love realize what’s right in front of him?
All’s fair in love because … Love like yours is everything.
Be Warned: m/m sex
Excerpt:
Mason was used to being alone. It was probably better that way. But his feelings for Dax tormented him, growing stronger with nowhere to go, and Mason was ready to jump out of his tattooed skin. And observing Oliver and Jon’s intense love for one another made Mason’s own desire for things that he’d never thought about before—a home, a family—clearer. It also made him uneasy. He felt like he was back in the army and headed into an unknown but likely dangerous situation. All his senses were on high alert.
“Fuck this,” he mumbled aloud to himself. Determined to get his mind focused and back on work, he decided to get rid of his stress in another tried-and-true way. The first interviewee wasn’t due for another hour, so Mason grabbed his workout clothes. Having a gym on-site was a necessity for his staff and himself. He worked out daily, and it afforded him the luxury of stuffing in greasy burgers and fries once a week. And a chocolate milkshake. Maybe two.
After checking his cell one last time, he headed out of his office, walking through the reception area and out into the hallway. He raced down two flights of stairs until he reached the second floor, and the gym which occupied the entire space. Besides the usual treadmills and weight machines, Mason had two large rooms built for sparring and martial arts training. He sauntered past two of his best bodyguards, Eli and Luis, who were currently battling it out on the mat, and then headed to the locker room to change. Five minutes later, he wandered back out to watch them finish.
Mason needed to stop thinking about Dax for a while, and there was nothing like the rush of a match to unlock endorphins and refocus his energy. Mixed martial arts was a common practice for many of Mason’s bodyguards with good reason. It kept the reflexes quick and the body agile. Eli won the last round, and he bumped Luis’s fist as they walked off the mat.
“Eli, you want to spar?” Mason asked.
“You sure, boss? I don’t think it would be a fair fight.” Eli chuckled as he grabbed a towel to wipe off his face.
Mason wasn’t as fast or powerful as twenty-nine-year-old Eli, but he was still in prime shape for his age. He quickly wrapped his hands and stepped onto the mat.
“I’m not as young as you, but I’ve got a shit ton of stress to work out. And I always fight to win. Let’s go.”
Mason and Eli circled each other with fists raised. Several bodyguards who were working out stopped to stare and trash-talk the showdown.
“Come on, M, take him down!”
“Show him who’s really boss, Eli!”
They sparred for almost twenty minutes, and Eli got a few good jabs in, but Mason had frustration on his side, and he landed more blows. Someone yelled time out, and they both stopped, gasping for breath and in dire need of hydration.
“You all right, boss? That’s some pent-up aggression you got out of your system,” Eli commented as he wiped down his face and neck. Eli was one of Mason’s oldest employees, hardworking and quiet. The man looked ferocious, but he was a giant teddy bear. At least, that’s what Dax called him. Fucking Dax, get out of my head!
“Yeah, I got a lot on my mind,” Mason answered as he unwrapped his hands. “Interviews today for two new hires and a proposal for the Wayward Lane summer tour contract. I really want to win that fucking bid.”
“That would be awesome. They’re the hottest rock band around. I got to see their show at the Garden last month. It was out of control.”
Mason nodded. “Yup. That contract could open us up to more large-scale gigs.”
“Good luck, boss. By the way, I’m glad that Dax is doing well.”
“Yeah, he is,” Mason replied as he snatched a towel and wiped down his face. His cell phone pinged, and he grabbed it out of his bag. It was Cutter, Dax’s uncle, and Mason’s best friend. Cutter was the only one of Dax’s family that supported him after he came out, abandoned by his parents. “Sorry, Eli, I’ve got to get this.”
He wandered down the hallway to the locker rooms for privacy and answered the call.
“Cutter, how the hell are you?”
“I’m good, Mase. How’s things in New York? You keeping an eye on my nephew?”
If Cutter only knew just how closely Mason watched Dax, his friend would probably blacken both his eyes.
“As always. In fact, something happened at his apartment, and he’ll be staying with me for the next few weeks.”
“Good. Now that he’s filming that movie, he’ll have paparazzi following him around. I’m still worried after that kidnapping attempt, but I know you’re watching out for him. Anyway, I called ’cause I’m thinking of heading out there at the end of the month for a visit.” After his stint in the army, Cutter moved to California and ran a successful organic farm. Like Mason, Cutter didn’t have a significant other, even though he’d dated a lot of women over the years.
“Great, we can hit the town and catch up. Text me when you have the details.”
“I will. Until then, keep an eye on my boy.”
“Always.”
Keeping his eye on Dax was a promise Mason had no problem keeping.
I've just loved so much this book by Ava Olsen. I've known this author reading this book that i literally have wolfed down. Difficult to put down, i loved the relationship between the two guys and how it evolutes!
This is the second book in this series, and this is Mason and Dax’s journey. This is a quick read, which is sweet and engaging, with friendships, family, danger, suspense, twists, intrigue, chemistry, a tad angst, an age gap, and love, which leads to an addictive page turner. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
i always enjoy a friends to lovers romance and adding in an age gap, i am SOLD. This book was spicy, enjoyable, and a down right good time. I enjoyed it from beginning to end. It wasnt much of a slow burn but sometimes it is exactly what i need! I definitely enjoyed this one.
Short but sweet! I didn't read the first book but this one is pretty good. The reference to what happen to Dax before his time with Mason had me curious so I'm buying the first volume. This one was light with the action off stage. However, it is a great read.
Love Like Yours is a quick age gap read that is steamy and hot with a hint a danger that takes Mason and Dax's story to a different level. All the character are well written, and I loved that they had a bet going on to see when Mason and Dax would get together. Mason and Dax's chemistry is explosive that it set the page a flame.
Love Like Yours was definitely a nonstop page turner that completely had my interest from the cover. It was steamy attraction with sparks all in one story I can say I’m enjoying this series and anxiously waiting on the next
Mason has loved Dax for a long time but thinks he's to old for him. Mason and Dax's brother are best friends and that's another reason he stays away from Dax. He doesn't want to lose his friendship with Dax's brother. Mason owns a security business and helped Dax with catching a stalker. Dax is making a movie and getting threats so he staying at Mason's apartment. Dax decides to date others and Mason can't handle it and admits to Dax that he loves him. I really enjoyed this book.
This book is all about Dax and Mason. They finally open their eyes and heart to be together when Mason gets over the agegap he has struggled with. After a small angst plot they find their hea. I enjoyed meeting up with all the men from the previous book. My one gripe I found the whodunnit plot really quickly wrapped up and would have liked to have had abit more details. Hopefully we meet the guys again, since there are more bodyguards to match up
This is the second book I've read written by Ava Olsen; I can’t wait to read more of her books. This is the second book in the NY Nights: Bodyguard Edition. The story is about Dax & Mason; both have been in love with the other but neither will act on it. I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
Dax has been in love with Mason, but the age gap has kept Mason away. But when Mason finally realizes what he stands to lose, sparks fly. I loved how sweet these two were for each other, Mason really is an M&M! A quick spicy read.
In this series so far...the bodyguards are HOT, the cases are dangerous and the romance is sexy and sweet. With Book 2 Mason was in deep denial and Dax was determined to force the issue. Who cares about the age difference??? It was definitely entertaining watching Mason resistance being tested, his downfall, all the support and well wishes from friends and family and the lovely HEA. Very nice and very Sweet!
This is part of the NY Nights Bodyguard series each can be read as a standalone yet connect via the characters and each includes love that they didn’t anticipate but hoped. Mason owner of Spartan Security working alongside his friends which we met in the first book, but his best friend’s nephew Dax captured his attention years ago but neither of them really came out to acknowledge it. Dax sweet much younger than Mason yest has crushed on the older man for years working on his acting career and he knows Mason thinks he is helping him by staying away but Dax means to let him know just how he feels regardless of if the older man is ready or not. Although, everyone around them can see, can feel it, and yet these two refuse to accept what is growing between them each time they are around each other the magnetic pull grows stronger fate ensuring they give in to that pull but will they get it together and find the happiness that has been right in front of them for the past few years or will they continue to tip toe around it or will their friends finely intervene ensuring they give each other a try at happiness?
Mason, is the 45yo CEO of Spartan Security Services. He's experienced, seasoned and crushing on his bestie's nephew, actor Dax. Dax, was getting his life back together after surviving the trauma of his unbalanced violent ex-boyfriend Devon. Mason, follows Dax's career and believes he's poised to take the next big step to Hollywood. Dax has secretly crushed on Mason for years. Mason, crushes on Dax but thinks he is too old for Dax. They get an opportunity to work closely together and get to spend time together. Will Dax let Mason know he's ready? Will Mason listen to Dax? Excellent quick read. Dax and Mason are delicious together. Great characters. Excellent support group. Well done!
I loved Mason and Dax! Mason - tough older Alpha bodyguard/best friend and Dax - sensitive, emotional younger actor. Swoon! I loved these two characters. This is a sweet friends to lovers, age gap romance that has a good story line. I liked seeing characters from other books and reading this left a warm, cozy feeling in me. I also loved the steamy scenes too!!!
Can someone you have a had a crush for 10 years come back for you. Even when that person doesn't think they can have you. Can things be overcome. Great read and great story,. Loved it.
Dax and Mason are good friends who feel more for one another than friendship. Mason thinks Dax is at a point where his blossoming career will take him away and there is a bit of an age gap. Dax knows that his love for Mason is real and he wants them. This friends to lovers story is sweet and it was good when Mason stopped trying to resist the good thing they could be and decides to lean in and openly return the love that is right in front of him.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book Mason is the CEO of Spartan security and at the age of 45 it’s all work for him. He does have feelings for someone who he thinks is too young for him and also his best friends nephew. What doesn’t help is that Dax Who is 27 has had feelings for him for a long time. Dax he is an actor who is on his way to Hollywood. He likes being an actor he doesn’t like everything that comes with it. He has had feelings for Mason for a long time but all the flirting that he does still doesn’t help. Everyone around them can see that they will be perfect for each other but Mason has got his head in the sand. But when Dax’s live is put in danger Mason is the first one to put his life on hold to do his security. What will come of them working so closely together and also living together for a month?? I could not put this book down what these two have is extremely special, age is just a number because when these two are together you don’t think of age you think about the love that is between them. Love is important but can Mason keeping Dax safe?? A brilliant read I can’t wait to read more from this author.
This is an enjoyable novella that features an age gap, two characters who’ve been pining for each other for a while, and a quick pace that moves the story along without feeling rushed. I would have liked, perhaps, a bit more focus on the emotional connection, given how long these two have had feelings but acted on them, but overall I liked how everything played out. A quick note, also, that while the romance can stand alone, there’s added context and familiar characters to be found in the previous book in the series.
If you read the first book, then you know that Mason is kind of a grumpy guy. This book shows you a whole new side of him, one that you will fall in love with. I loved the characters and the storyline. It's a low angst, sexy, short read that has me wanting more.
A quick and exciting read! Lots of steam and lots of action! Mason is the head of his own security firm, in his mid-forties, and has been secretly in love with his best friend’s nephew for years. Dax is the one light in his lonely existence. Dax is a 27 year old actor who has made it big on broadway, and is now transitioning to the big screen. He’s a fun loving guy who has secretly been in love with Mason for years. Push finally comes to shove here for Mason, who has been the main holdout in why they have never gotten together. Dax basically calls his bluff to the breaking point. And break it does! It’s satisfying to see them finally give in and come together. And the chemistry is pretty amazing too! I read book 1 in this series so had seen this couple before, and I enjoyed seeing them get their HEA! It’s worth a read and goes quickly! 4/5 stars
Age gap is normally not really my thing. I can enjoy books with that trope, but it is absolutely not my favorite. But after I read 'Hate to Love You' from this author I knew I wanted more in this serie. Just like the previous part in the serie, it was a quick, fun and lovely read. This novella was just as perfect to read in between two books and it was perfect for me to get me out of a little reading slump (and jetlag). I did however find the twist in the book too fast. If you have read the previous book, you know that Dax and Mason are completely over the moon for each other, but they don't act on it. The moment they finally do, came to fast. I would have like to see more build up tension, that would have made the story better, in my opinion. The spice was however everything you want in a spicy, fun read. Please give me the next book in this series!
broadway star Dax needs protection and who better than his uncles best friend Masons security, but the chemestry between then if far more than they could imagien, but with their age gap Mason doesnt want to pull Dax back, but he will do anything to keep him safe. well written steamy MM protection romance
Ms. Olsen once more goes all in on the spicy factor! I love the fact that each book that I read by this author, I cannot seem to put it down no matter where I am. I hate the fact that I got into it so late because it deserves its kudos. The detail that goes into the spicy scenes, the daydream that Mason had about Dax, whew just great.. Actually, I think the word is more along, sublime that I am looking for. So overall the book was good. I can't give it a full five stars because I have some things I wish would be added. One I would love the book to be a little bit longer. I know that this type of book is not a slow burn ( I would not change that at all) I just wish that there was a little more depth to the characters. I feel as though I only know them on the surface and because of this I can't relate to the character at all. Now if this 0is what the author is going for, by all means go for it, I will continue to be the fly on the wall in this sort of fast paced romance. Normally I can say something about feeling for the characters but I did not and was still met with spicy scenes (don't change those at all). Other than that, the book was good. I will definitely have a look at the other books that she has created. Links:
So happy to finally get Mason and Dax's story! Mason is the ultimate grump to Dax's sunshine character. After getting a glimpse of these two characters in the first of the NY Nights: Bodyguard Edition, I was excited that they were getting their own story and their HEA. These are great, quick reads - these novellas are the perfect bite in between long reads or when you are looking for something with a little intrigue but with a good turnaround and a HEA. Mason's character is absolutely the ultimate M&M - that was the perfect description for him! Tough on the outside but such a sweet character on the inside. His care and concern for Dax are so heartwarming. Once again Dax is being stalked and the dangers of being a celebrity and being in the public life. The subplot keeps the story moving and adds a little extra without overwhelming the romance plot. It's good to see characters from other books show up and get updates about their story. I'm curious about who gets the next story!!!!
Dax’s love for Mason appears unrequited but Mason’s ability to keep his feelings hidden gives this story it’s wings. The two m/c’s figure themselves out rather quickly into the book which is great, we see their relationship flourish, then the excitement hits and a new dynamic is added. Danger is always a good element within a romance and this story has that. It keeps you engaged but even without it the love story was sweet and quite nice.
Mason has been smitten with his best friend's nephew, Dax for years. While Dax has had a huge crush on Mason for just as long. Neither of them would admit it, even though everyone around them tried to tell them they would be a perfect match. But when Dax comes under threat because of a stalker, Mason doesn't waste a moment. He assigns himself as his bodyguard, vowing to do whatever it took to keep the man he loves safe. Will the danger surrounding them cause them to finally admit their love for each other? Or will they continue to hold themselves back out of fear of being hurt?
The history and trust between Dax and Mason made their chemistry great and the fact that there’s a bit of a thrill since there’s a creep stalking (and attempting to kill) Dax so Mason had to protect him. The way that their confession came about was really funny and sweet, and their first kiss was just fire (I’m surprised the set didn’t burn down). And the ending was…*insert smiley face*. Kudos to the author!
This book was wonderfully provided by NetGalley in return for an honest review. A quick, sexy, and very endearing romance with two great main characters. Dax and Mason were definitely more than what I thought they were going to be going into the novel and I was pleasantly surprised by how attached I got to them during the read. I didn't realize until finishing this book that the supporting cast were characters from other novels written by the author, knowing them in this book has definitely got me interested in reading further in this fun universe to find out how they all met! The writing style was very to the point, sometimes doing itself a bit of a disservice during certain scenes, but I honestly still really liked my time with this book. I enjoyed the fact that the conflict later in the book had nothing to do with Dax and Mason's relationship and more to do with both of their careers. The ending was a bit rushed, no spoilers, but it didn't feel out of character with everything that had proceeded and everything was wrapped up nicely with the promise of their Happily Ever After.
A short, sexy read. Just what I needed to break up a hectic week. I enjoyed the pacing of the story, and how it was basically a novella. The characters were decently fleshed out
What a sweet and romantic novella. I’ve been waiting for Mason’s story for what feels like forever (okay it’s probably only been a couple of months). I love when the big bad tough guys find love and get mushy. Seriously, if I had to choose only one trope, that would be it. Mason is the head of his security company, an ex-military, tattooed badass, with a crush on his best friend's Nephew. Dax is a sweet and stubborn actor almost 20 years younger than him. I love all the times that Mason gets growly over Dax. Though he’s determined the age difference is too big, and he doesn’t want to hold Dax back from his dreams, he can’t help but want to lose his mind over Dax dating someone else. This non-romantic guy really knows how to say swoonyiest things. So much love for this couple. 4.5 Stars You can read this on its own, but I highly recommend reading book one because you get some background and build-up for their story and it’ll make this so much better. And hey, they’re both novellas so you can read them both in one night!
a spoonful of sugar anyone? more like buckets!!!! I loved this book. I think the way ava wrote the romance of these two amazing men gave me a sweet tooth. okay, so I do have a weakness for a man with a tough exterior being all mush gushy when he's in love but this was so good that I had to force someone else to read some of the highly romantic paragraphs to see if I the hopeless romantic in me wasn't just projecting. anyways this is one of the few books that I would recommend to anyone who loves ready charming romances. and I just know that I'll be getting my hands on a paperback copy of this book one way or another. I did love it and would recommend it.
Was simple and clean not unnecessary drama. Once he decided to follow his heart . He went all out. I just like it was simple understandable cute story. Matured and lovable characters
This new series is just as good as the previous one. Dax and Mason finally getting together was an interesting story to read. I can't wait for more.
I was happy to get to read Mason's story and Dax is just a perfect match for him. An easy and quick read that left me smiling when I finished.
This novella was delightfully fun and romantic! I whole heartedly enjoy watching a grump give into his feelings and Mason was a true grump! But that made it fun as Dax had to keep trying to find ways to woo him! These two were sexy, sweet and so perfect! This was an easy and heartwarming read that left me smiling at the end! Just two very different guys finding what they need in each other!
So, if you read the first book of this series, Hate to Love You, then you know Mason is a grump like no other. The only person in the world that can get a smile out of him is the talented little actor, Dax. Dax was introduced in the first book also. This time, Dax is stepping up his game to make Mason notice him. Things do not go as planned but then again, maybe they do. Everyone around the two know that they have a love that is beyond words, but Mason just cannot resolve himself to thinking such a young, handsome and talented man could love him for more than a short time. As he is trying his best to resist all of the advances Dax makes, his internal monologue is fun to read. Dax also has some inter-monologue that brings a chuckle or two. When another person is out to get Dax, Mason is there to protect what is his and his alone. He also shows and speaks with a romantic side no one but Dax knows exists and it is super sweet to read. Pick up this great second book in the series and read along to watch this love story unfold. It is a favorite of mine now especially since I liked both characters in the first book and knew their story would be a good one with grump/sunshine trope in full force.
This was, perhaps, one of the cutest and sweetest romances I've ever read. What a refreshing take having the main conflict NOT be the relationship. I mean, okay, yeah, there's the initial conflict but that 3/4 conflict that is usually a matter of miscommunication that makes you want to throw the book across the room? No worries, you won't experience that here. You get that sweet sweet romance and actual plot to pull the story along. Is this technically a novella? Not sure, but it's a super fast and fun read. The perfect way to spend an afternoon.
