Title: If You’re Going Through Hell Keep Going
Series: Mann of My Dreams 01
Author: Tinnean
Genre: Suspense
Length: Novel (308pgs)
ISBN: 9781310203404
Publisher: Tinnean (14th June 2014)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts
Reviewer: Maya
Blurb: Mark Vincent and Quinton Mann have finally kind of, sort of, exchanged promises. Mark has returned from an assignment on the West Coast, and he’s looking forward to spending some quality time with his lover. After all, it’s the St. Patrick’s Day weekend. What could be better than a little beer, a little corned beef on rye, and Quinn in his bed?
However, on Monday it’s back to the grind — this time to an almost empty department. Matheson is away on assignment and Ms. Parker, Mark’s secretary, is taking sick time, something she never does. But these aren’t the only signs of something unusual, well, more unusual than normal, going on. Gradually, Mark uncovers a series of events going back to the previous spring and involving not only his senior special agent but Theo Bascopolis, a former rent boy who is Mark’s friend.
While Mark unravels the threads of the Gordian knot the WBIS has become, he realizes how deep his feelings for Quinn have grown. But can a spy like Mark ever hope to be “the one” for a spook like Quinn?
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Review: This story is nearly 6 yrs old, but the story itself is new to me. I’m very glad I discovered it, since it’s very good and I enjoyed it.
It’s one of several books this author has in the same universe which is the only sticking point with the story. It relies heavily on previous books, references past events and characters from others books pop up constantly. I was lucky because I did read Houseboat on the Nile, which is part of another series, but it it’s chronologically before this one. That series is not republished yet in its entirety and I would definitely recommend reading it before this one.
Otherwise, I had a blast with the book. It’s fast paced, dialogue heavy and believer in instant gratification, as in, the bad guys are dealt with swiftly and decisively.
The whole story is in first POV from one of its main characters. Mark Vincent works for shadowy Agency and is unapologetic about his worldview. He is willing to do everything for his friends and those he trusts, and his enemies tend to have radically shortened lifespans. It’s simple and ruthless worldview, and the reason why everyone else in intelligence community considers him a sociopath. It also makes his fumbling on romantic front even more endearing. The romance story is more of a background, as he and Quinn are in established relationship. Mark has no problems risking his life and killing others, but he is shy when it comes to asking his lover to move in with him. It’s sigh worthy and now I’m curious as to what will happen in other books of the series.
Sincerely recommended, but I’d suggest reading other books in this universe first. I think it will make this one even better!