by
Two unique couples, totally aware of each other's existence, are inexorably drawn together as chaos over campus assault erupts at the university which is the focus of their lives and work. Each man is affected differently, but for each it becomes the center of their world and the vortex around which their relationships spin out-of-control.
David and Nate, professors at the university and a loving couple see their partnership torn asunder as Nate choose the path of activism after he is attacked becoming a leader in the 'End Assault' movement. David refuses to support his militant stance, fearing that consequences will destroy his career and Nate, feeling abandoned and betrayed, begins to doubt their relationship.
Colin, an Irish Sergeant in the campus police force, is a legend on campus. A fierce protector of assault victims, he is merciless in pursuit of their assailants. Joshua is a Title IX consultant assigned to work with Colin to help resolve these difficult cases. Their relationship quickly becomes passionate but Colin clings to his independence fighting against the feelings which draw him to Joshua. Eventually, a dark secret from his past erupts into an explosive quarrel which ends their relationship and causes Joshua to flee, leaving Colin with no idea where he's gone or how to find him.
It would take a miracle to resolve these issues and bring these men together. Or perhaps it would take Love's Magic.
- 2 To Be Read lists
Genres:
Pairings: M-M
Romantic Content: 4
Ending: Click here to reveal
Character Identities: Gay
Protagonist 1 Age: 26-35
Protagonist 2 Age: 26-35
Protagonist 3 Age: 36-45
Tropes: Alpha Character, Everyone is Queer, Hero and the Great Quest, Love Can Heal / Redemption, Queer Wedding, Second Chances, Thrill of the Chase, True Love
Word Count: 82406
Setting: Charlottesville, VA
Languages Available: English
Series Type: Same Universe / Various Characters
Disappointed, Colin's face fell, then, suddenly decisive, his hand flew to Joshua's wrist and gripped tightly. "What do you want from me, Josh?"
Joshua forced himself to meet Colin's eyes. "I want what you can't give." He lowered his eyes, the heartbreak in his voice palpable even to his own ears.
"You know I have feelings for you," Colin said hoarsely, using his hold on Joshua's wrist to draw him closer.
"For me and every other guy you take to bed," Joshua replied.
"This is about possession?"
READ MOREJoshua smiled and shook his head. He lifted his hand and cradled Colin's cheek once again gazing steadily into his honey-green eyes. "God, Colin, it's not about that," he whispered. "It's you, Colin. It's you. If it was some other guy, maybe it wouldn't matter. I'm no innocent and I'm no prude. I've had casual sex before and liked it just fine. But I can't do it with you, Colin. Nothing I feel for you is casual. Nothing. I told you once that I had a weakness for larger-than-life men, and you are the poster boy for larger-than-life men, at least you are to me. You're the magic man. You're Colin Campbell. I can't do it with you, Colin. I just can't." He lowered his hand from Colin's cheek and turned away. He tried to free his wrist from Colin's grasp, but the big policeman held on tightly.
Joshua turned to face him. "You have to let me go."
"Josh, I—I wish…" Colin began. He exhaled sharply through his teeth then stopped. He stared into Joshua's eyes for a long moment then slowly released him.
"Me too," Joshua said in a choked whisper. He turned away and fled the building, nearly running. He heard Colin say his name but ignored him in his rush to get away. In another few seconds he would have surrendered to Colin's pleas and gone with him. Gone with him anywhere he wanted Joshua to go. The heat of Colin's fingers burned his wrist like a brand. He could feel his body's intense response to even this casual contact. Colin Campbell was a drug, and Joshua was completely addicted.
COLLAPSEThis is so much more than a delightful read. The story line(s) and characterizations were deeply drawn. The intertwining development of the two couples journey from the beginnings of interest, through adversity and angst, to the realization of what really matters at the end of the day, is that finding your soulmate and holding them tight to your heart is all that matters when all is said and done.
I am looking forward to the continuation of Colin and Joshua's story.
