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Beyond #2
Beyond Reason
Sometimes the hardest thing is being the only one left alive.
Axel Fetterman: The Cleaner
Twenty-two years ago, my world ended. I was called to a scene to find the man I loved, cold and lifeless, on the ground. Every moment between now and then has been nothing more than existing between one breath and the next while dealing with the grief of losing the one person I couldn’t live without.
When a man shows up at my door telling me he’s Xavier, I don’t know what to believe. On one hand, it’s impossible—on the other, I’ve never met another person who makes me burn the way he does. Is believing in the impossible too good to be true?
Xavier Benham: The Killer For Hire
Twenty-two years ago, I died. I don’t know how, and I don’t know why, but I’m alive again. Whatever screwed-up experiment brought me here, I won’t waste the opportunity. I can’t remember most of my life. I can’t remember much, but I can remember him.
Axel.
I’ll do whatever I have to if it means getting back to him, and whatever it takes to become the man I used to be. The only thing standing in my way is the company that brought me back and their determination to rectify their mistake.
~~~
Beyond Reason is a dual POV dark romance with a twist on soulmates that answers the question of how long a man can wait for the person he’s destined to be with. Prepare yourself for angst, high heat, high emotions, and a killer for hire who is suddenly thrown into a world he doesn’t understand. Guaranteed HEA with a universe that’s wide open for exploration! Best read after Beyond Time.
Axel Fetterman: The Cleaner
Twenty-two years ago, my world ended. I was called to a scene to find the man I loved, cold and lifeless, on the ground. Every moment between now and then has been nothing more than existing between one breath and the next while dealing with the grief of losing the one person I couldn’t live without.
When a man shows up at my door telling me he’s Xavier, I don’t know what to believe. On one hand, it’s impossible—on the other, I’ve never met another person who makes me burn the way he does. Is believing in the impossible too good to be true?
Xavier Benham: The Killer For Hire
Twenty-two years ago, I died. I don’t know how, and I don’t know why, but I’m alive again. Whatever screwed-up experiment brought me here, I won’t waste the opportunity. I can’t remember most of my life. I can’t remember much, but I can remember him.
Axel.
I’ll do whatever I have to if it means getting back to him, and whatever it takes to become the man I used to be. The only thing standing in my way is the company that brought me back and their determination to rectify their mistake.
~~~
Beyond Reason is a dual POV dark romance with a twist on soulmates that answers the question of how long a man can wait for the person he’s destined to be with. Prepare yourself for angst, high heat, high emotions, and a killer for hire who is suddenly thrown into a world he doesn’t understand. Guaranteed HEA with a universe that’s wide open for exploration! Best read after Beyond Time.
- GenresM M RomanceDark
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 28, 2024
About the author
Lee McCormick
6 books128 followersLee McCormick has been writing since they were very young, and they've finally found the courage to offer up some of their favorite ideas to the world. Parent to two amazing kids and three pretty fantastic dogs, they've always been fascinated with dark romance and love that transcends time and reason.
When they aren't busy working on their novels, you can usually find them browsing queer romance recommendations or playing a video game. (Baldur's Gate 3 is the current obsession!)
When they aren't busy working on their novels, you can usually find them browsing queer romance recommendations or playing a video game. (Baldur's Gate 3 is the current obsession!)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
September 2, 2024
⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️
I was worried for a bit there, ‘cause honestly I want sure I was falling for Xavier and Axel. I really felt Seth and Kade’s soulmate bond in Beyond Time, but here I struggled to see that all-consuming forever kind of love. Until around that last 30%.
A lot of the initial plot is just them reestablishing their connection, figuring out how they work again after 20 years.
I don’t know if I just wasn’t in the right mood, but the first half dragged a bit. It was mostly spice and dialogues, and I wasn’t really feeling either.
Once the action kicked in, I found myself falling in love all over again with this world. That I will burn the world for you type of love, that you die I die. Soulmates, fated mates, love that goes beyond reason, beyond time, beyond fate.
Kade and Seth were so much more impactful for me, but I still enjoyed coming back to this world, and can’t wait to see more of it.
Lee McCormick got me crying in my coffee again.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Death
- Panic attacks
- Violence
- Brief torture
- Age gap (20 years?)
- Size difference
- Strict top/bottom
- Smaller top
- Slight D/s dynamics
- Breath play
- Orgasm denial & edging
- Slight degradation & praise
- Rimming
Was some version of him always supposed to be in love with some version of me?
I was worried for a bit there, ‘cause honestly I want sure I was falling for Xavier and Axel. I really felt Seth and Kade’s soulmate bond in Beyond Time, but here I struggled to see that all-consuming forever kind of love. Until around that last 30%.
“I think I’ve loved you in every life.”
A lot of the initial plot is just them reestablishing their connection, figuring out how they work again after 20 years.
I don’t know if I just wasn’t in the right mood, but the first half dragged a bit. It was mostly spice and dialogues, and I wasn’t really feeling either.
Once the action kicked in, I found myself falling in love all over again with this world. That I will burn the world for you type of love, that you die I die. Soulmates, fated mates, love that goes beyond reason, beyond time, beyond fate.
Beyond all reason, he was here. With me. And nothing was going to tear us apart.
Kade and Seth were so much more impactful for me, but I still enjoyed coming back to this world, and can’t wait to see more of it.
“I’ll still be here. In everything around you, even when you feel nothing at all. I’ll be every star in the sky, watching over you. I’ll never be so far away that you can’t see me if you look. Just… wait for me.”
Lee McCormick got me crying in my coffee again.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Death
- Panic attacks
- Violence
- Brief torture
- Age gap (20 years?)
- Size difference
- Strict top/bottom
- Smaller top
- Slight D/s dynamics
- Breath play
- Orgasm denial & edging
- Slight degradation & praise
- Rimming
August 24, 2024
Axel and Xavier have an incredible bond that I could not get enough of. Their journey towards their HEA is hard-won and full of shocks and surprises. These two soul mates can get their second chance through the forcible testing that changes souls.
This story is a fantastic perspective on reincarnation and multiple lives. I enjoy the concept and how each couple can achieve their happily ever after even when it appears impossible. Xavier and Axel are so entertaining and devoted to one another that I could not get enough of their story.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
This story is a fantastic perspective on reincarnation and multiple lives. I enjoy the concept and how each couple can achieve their happily ever after even when it appears impossible. Xavier and Axel are so entertaining and devoted to one another that I could not get enough of their story.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
September 15, 2024
⭐︎
4.25 stars rounded down
⭐︎
So I'm giving this one the same rating as the first book. It was about on par with it, so this felt like the appropriate rating to give it.
I didn't quite connect with Axel and Xavier as a couple at first. Their past, before Xavier died, was very glossed over, done very quickly. I was a bit confused as to how they even came to know each other, how they came to be. We learn why Xavier was around Axel, at first, sure, but was Axel just brought to a scene Xavier was at for clean up and Xavier was hurt and that's how they met? Was it all chance or orchestrated (since Xavier was there to betray him at first?) I was very confused about that part.
Also I never could get understand if they met when they were only 18 and were together until they were 20 or met at 20 and together until they were 22. I think there was a mention of Xavier dying at 22 once, so that's what I had in my head until it kept saying it's been 20 years since he died (and Axel is now 40, hence they'd have been 20 when he died.)
Unless....wait I guess Xavier could have been 22 when he died and Axel 20, so they met when Axel was 18 and Xavier 20, but then at the end Xavier makes a joke about if he died again and Axel being a 60 year old man getting together with a "20 year old" so....was he 20 or 22? It made me so confused 😩
And like...if even if he was 22, you telling me he became one of the top assassins at 22?! And if he was 20 that's even crazier. And they talked like he was already in the game for awhile, but he was so young? Why not just make them a little older, like mid-20's at least? It was just hard to buy that Xavier was this badass, renowned assassin at 20 or 22. (And this isn't Kill Bill with Lucy Liu's character, he didn't start his assassin training at 9 lol)
So yeah, all that was a bit much, or not enough in the case of establishing a connection between them.
Butttt, all that said, this really picked up as I went along, and I really started to enjoy it. I still never become wowed enough to give this 5 stars, but I enjoyed these two and this story enough to give a solid 4.25 stars.
I still had a fun time, and these two managed to give some really good feels as we went. Just thinking of Axel without Xavier for 20 years is heartbreaking, and them having to relive Xavier's death once he remembered it all...like this isn't like Kade and Seth (who it was a pleasure to see again in this!) who didn't know each other, they had only known the other versions of each other...these two knew and were together and loved each other for at least 2 years - so much so that Axel wasn't able to get past Xavier's death 20 years later. It was almost like it was still fresh in his mind, even now.
They were meant to be, and I guess even death can't stop them from ultimately getting their happy ending.
I do recommend this, as it was a solid, entertaining installment with a good couple overall. It just maybe needed a stronger, more detailed start to really establish their connection instead of having to eventually feel it over time, later into the book once they'd had enough scenes together for me to start to really feel it between them.
So I still haven't been completely wowed by this series, but I am still enjoying it a lot, and am excited for future works in this series. Otto and London already greatly intrigue me, from the brief glimpse we got of them.
Can't wait to where the author goes with their story.
Onto the next! 🥰
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
My Ratings for the Beyond Series:
🔆 Beyond Time: 4.25 stars (my review)
🔆 Beyond Fate: 3.75 stars (my review)
🔆 Beyond Reason: 4.25 stars
🔆 Beyond Hate: TBR
So I'm giving this one the same rating as the first book. It was about on par with it, so this felt like the appropriate rating to give it.
I didn't quite connect with Axel and Xavier as a couple at first. Their past, before Xavier died, was very glossed over, done very quickly. I was a bit confused as to how they even came to know each other, how they came to be. We learn why Xavier was around Axel, at first, sure, but was Axel just brought to a scene Xavier was at for clean up and Xavier was hurt and that's how they met? Was it all chance or orchestrated (since Xavier was there to betray him at first?) I was very confused about that part.
Also I never could get understand if they met when they were only 18 and were together until they were 20 or met at 20 and together until they were 22. I think there was a mention of Xavier dying at 22 once, so that's what I had in my head until it kept saying it's been 20 years since he died (and Axel is now 40, hence they'd have been 20 when he died.)
Unless....wait I guess Xavier could have been 22 when he died and Axel 20, so they met when Axel was 18 and Xavier 20, but then at the end Xavier makes a joke about if he died again and Axel being a 60 year old man getting together with a "20 year old" so....was he 20 or 22? It made me so confused 😩
And like...if even if he was 22, you telling me he became one of the top assassins at 22?! And if he was 20 that's even crazier. And they talked like he was already in the game for awhile, but he was so young? Why not just make them a little older, like mid-20's at least? It was just hard to buy that Xavier was this badass, renowned assassin at 20 or 22. (And this isn't Kill Bill with Lucy Liu's character, he didn't start his assassin training at 9 lol)
So yeah, all that was a bit much, or not enough in the case of establishing a connection between them.
Butttt, all that said, this really picked up as I went along, and I really started to enjoy it. I still never become wowed enough to give this 5 stars, but I enjoyed these two and this story enough to give a solid 4.25 stars.
I still had a fun time, and these two managed to give some really good feels as we went. Just thinking of Axel without Xavier for 20 years is heartbreaking, and them having to relive Xavier's death once he remembered it all...like this isn't like Kade and Seth (who it was a pleasure to see again in this!) who didn't know each other, they had only known the other versions of each other...these two knew and were together and loved each other for at least 2 years - so much so that Axel wasn't able to get past Xavier's death 20 years later. It was almost like it was still fresh in his mind, even now.
They were meant to be, and I guess even death can't stop them from ultimately getting their happy ending.
I do recommend this, as it was a solid, entertaining installment with a good couple overall. It just maybe needed a stronger, more detailed start to really establish their connection instead of having to eventually feel it over time, later into the book once they'd had enough scenes together for me to start to really feel it between them.
So I still haven't been completely wowed by this series, but I am still enjoying it a lot, and am excited for future works in this series. Otto and London already greatly intrigue me, from the brief glimpse we got of them.
Can't wait to where the author goes with their story.
Onto the next! 🥰
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
My Ratings for the Beyond Series:
🔆 Beyond Time: 4.25 stars (my review)
🔆 Beyond Fate: 3.75 stars (my review)
🔆 Beyond Reason: 4.25 stars
🔆 Beyond Hate: TBR
September 7, 2024
This is the newest book in this series with a unique twist on reincarnation. This one was really painful to read at times. Xavier and Axel were deeply in love when the worst happened and Xavier died. Over twenty years later he is brought back to a new body and immediately wants to find his safe place, his home - Axel.
The exploration of their feelings from the past and their grief was hard to read. Grief that immense is hard to get past - Axel struggles with believing the reality of his lover being back, terror at losing him once again and great relief that he has been granted a miraculous second chance. Xavier is missing some of his memories from his previous life and seeing him remember things slowly was so bittersweet.
And of course there is the action plotline. There is an overarching plot that starts in book 1 and continues here. Side note: I adored seeing Kade and Seth again. Kade specifically is hilarious and frankly scary AF.
I love how this series explores not only reincarnation but the fact that two souls are destined for each other across multiple lives. If the next book is who I think it is it will have a totally different vibe from this one but I am HERE for it!
The exploration of their feelings from the past and their grief was hard to read. Grief that immense is hard to get past - Axel struggles with believing the reality of his lover being back, terror at losing him once again and great relief that he has been granted a miraculous second chance. Xavier is missing some of his memories from his previous life and seeing him remember things slowly was so bittersweet.
And of course there is the action plotline. There is an overarching plot that starts in book 1 and continues here. Side note: I adored seeing Kade and Seth again. Kade specifically is hilarious and frankly scary AF.
I love how this series explores not only reincarnation but the fact that two souls are destined for each other across multiple lives. If the next book is who I think it is it will have a totally different vibe from this one but I am HERE for it!
August 25, 2024
"I’ll still be here. In everything around you, even when you feel nothing at all. I’ll be every star in the sky, watching over you. I’ll never be so far away that you can’t see me if you look. Just… wait for me."
Beyond Reason is the second book in the Beyond series by Lee McCormick, and whilst they are standalones in that they feature a new couple, they are better read in order because of the overlap in themes, timelines and the overarching story. This is Xavier and Axel's story.
What To Expect:
🖤MM romance
🖤dark themes
🖤reincarnation
🖤age gap
🖤all the spice
🖤soul mates
🖤touch him and die x 2
🖤HEA
I totally loved the concept and characters in Beyond Time and whilst Beyond Reason doesn't have that 'wow' impact (because the secret's out!) I did love the characters - especially Xavier. And it was an absolute delight having Kade back in town causing trouble, with Seth keeping him in line of course!
Definitely a recommended series.
Beyond Reason is the second book in the Beyond series by Lee McCormick, and whilst they are standalones in that they feature a new couple, they are better read in order because of the overlap in themes, timelines and the overarching story. This is Xavier and Axel's story.
What To Expect:
🖤MM romance
🖤dark themes
🖤reincarnation
🖤age gap
🖤all the spice
🖤soul mates
🖤touch him and die x 2
🖤HEA
I totally loved the concept and characters in Beyond Time and whilst Beyond Reason doesn't have that 'wow' impact (because the secret's out!) I did love the characters - especially Xavier. And it was an absolute delight having Kade back in town causing trouble, with Seth keeping him in line of course!
Definitely a recommended series.
August 31, 2024
I cannot stress enough how amazing this book is!!! Book 1 blew me away but this one blew me out of the bloody universe!!! Read it in a day then couldn't get it out of my head for the rest of the weekend.
Amazing, just amazing.
I received an ARC of this book from GRR and this is my honest review
Amazing, just amazing.
I received an ARC of this book from GRR and this is my honest review
September 15, 2024
A Dark MM romance with a beautiful second-chance, Opposites attract & Size difference, a fun sci-fi twist on reincarnation & soulmates!
I loved Axel & Xavier, Devoured my #ARC in 7hrs. This series is so ingenious!
Axel is in his 40s, he's a cleaner for killer's messes, quite renowned in the business. Ax's grumpy (but in a cute way lol), & been in grief for decades. His anguish was so well written 🥺.
Xavier was a Hitman, who's now been reincarnated in a sweet scientist's body (IYKYK). X is more of a cheeky, bold sunshine of the 2!
Xav's return was unexpected & so was their 2nd chance. The grief Ax has is so profound; The realisation how deep their love ran. Also, people are after his current persona. Plus there's the suspense of how he died that kept me curious! That prologue could be its own novella!
The angst is moderate, with feels. The action & suspense are good. I hope X got his lessons on running, wtf there 😬🤣 lol. The heat builds up, It isn't too kinky but I loved the slight d/s & the "good boy" 🥵. The climax is fun, & the new characters intro'd I want books of! Loved the cameos 😍. No epilogue 🥺, but the ending's sweet.
P.s. So the ages: 42, especially 20/22 should be swapped at some places as it got confusing. But hopefully it's just an ARC issue.
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 5/5
2) The Characters: 5/5
3) Top feels: 🥺😁😏😢🤨😳😈😅😍😆😭😯🥰🧐🙁🔪😲❤️
4) Steamy scenes: 2.5/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4/5
Angst/tears: 3/5
Dark+Action: 3/5
6) Creativity + world: 5/5
7) Plot arc: (Reincarnation, Killers & Soulmates) 4.75/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.5/5
I loved Axel & Xavier, Devoured my #ARC in 7hrs. This series is so ingenious!
Axel is in his 40s, he's a cleaner for killer's messes, quite renowned in the business. Ax's grumpy (but in a cute way lol), & been in grief for decades. His anguish was so well written 🥺.
Xavier was a Hitman, who's now been reincarnated in a sweet scientist's body (IYKYK). X is more of a cheeky, bold sunshine of the 2!
Xav's return was unexpected & so was their 2nd chance. The grief Ax has is so profound; The realisation how deep their love ran. Also, people are after his current persona. Plus there's the suspense of how he died that kept me curious! That prologue could be its own novella!
The angst is moderate, with feels. The action & suspense are good. I hope X got his lessons on running, wtf there 😬🤣 lol. The heat builds up, It isn't too kinky but I loved the slight d/s & the "good boy" 🥵. The climax is fun, & the new characters intro'd I want books of! Loved the cameos 😍. No epilogue 🥺, but the ending's sweet.
P.s. So the ages: 42, especially 20/22 should be swapped at some places as it got confusing. But hopefully it's just an ARC issue.
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 5/5
2) The Characters: 5/5
3) Top feels: 🥺😁😏😢🤨😳😈😅😍😆😭😯🥰🧐🙁🔪😲❤️
4) Steamy scenes: 2.5/5
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 4/5
Angst/tears: 3/5
Dark+Action: 3/5
6) Creativity + world: 5/5
7) Plot arc: (Reincarnation, Killers & Soulmates) 4.75/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.5/5
September 6, 2024
No, like seriously, who do we have to kill to get a TV series made about these books? I need this in my life – for science or whatever! This book was explosive from the beginning – Xavier and Axel do not have the healthiest relationship – think slamming each other into things, weaponry, lots of kinky sex – and yet by the end of this book, they were pretty much relationship goals. Alongside Seth and Kade – oh my, my appreciation for Seth actually grew.
Apart from the insane relationship dynamics, choosing who I wanted for the next instalment, and biting my nails waiting to see just how damaged these guys were going to be by the time they got their happily ever after (in this lifetime), the plot kept me fascinated, the ideas behind the science were intriguing and troubling, and my admiration for the world that Lee McCormick has created just grew exponentially. If you have read the previous Beyond book, you know the premise, but I still don’t think you’re ready for this ride.
There were times I wanted to kill Xavier myself – he sometimes was more annoying than Kade and that’s saying something – but ultimately, I finished this cheering despite being sick with COVID (again). Petition to live in Lee McCormick’s brain alongside her characters but not as one of the bad bad guys please!
I received an ARC from GRR.
Apart from the insane relationship dynamics, choosing who I wanted for the next instalment, and biting my nails waiting to see just how damaged these guys were going to be by the time they got their happily ever after (in this lifetime), the plot kept me fascinated, the ideas behind the science were intriguing and troubling, and my admiration for the world that Lee McCormick has created just grew exponentially. If you have read the previous Beyond book, you know the premise, but I still don’t think you’re ready for this ride.
There were times I wanted to kill Xavier myself – he sometimes was more annoying than Kade and that’s saying something – but ultimately, I finished this cheering despite being sick with COVID (again). Petition to live in Lee McCormick’s brain alongside her characters but not as one of the bad bad guys please!
I received an ARC from GRR.
August 28, 2024
Back in the Beyond world with a different take on reincarnation.
Axel and Xavier meet by chance and Axel helps him recover. One thing leads to another, bada bing bada boom, those forced proximity pheromones were working overtime.
Fast forward 22 years after tragedy strikes and Kade just laid waste to the facility to get Seth back. Xavier wakes up in a Freaky Friday moment but without the mother daughter thing going on. His previous persona stole some precious info that he now has to protect while also making his way to Axel. Axel is understandably surprised by this, as I would be too.
There’s a lot of domestic scenes while they get used to each other again so many years later, and Xavier gets used to his new body which is NOT improved. I had to keep pulling myself back to the book here because these parts are not my favorite in any book, so I really struggled here. Xavier does a lot of running away when he doesn’t like something too and just overall making some silly choices. But they furthered the plot so….
When Kade and Seth showed up I loved it. I liked how this tied back to Axel in some way, that was interesting. Like all these lines and webs are connected. We also get a sneaky peek in one of the other facilities at the next book if you’re paying attention.
*𝙄 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮. 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬.*
Axel and Xavier meet by chance and Axel helps him recover. One thing leads to another, bada bing bada boom, those forced proximity pheromones were working overtime.
Fast forward 22 years after tragedy strikes and Kade just laid waste to the facility to get Seth back. Xavier wakes up in a Freaky Friday moment but without the mother daughter thing going on. His previous persona stole some precious info that he now has to protect while also making his way to Axel. Axel is understandably surprised by this, as I would be too.
There’s a lot of domestic scenes while they get used to each other again so many years later, and Xavier gets used to his new body which is NOT improved. I had to keep pulling myself back to the book here because these parts are not my favorite in any book, so I really struggled here. Xavier does a lot of running away when he doesn’t like something too and just overall making some silly choices. But they furthered the plot so….
When Kade and Seth showed up I loved it. I liked how this tied back to Axel in some way, that was interesting. Like all these lines and webs are connected. We also get a sneaky peek in one of the other facilities at the next book if you’re paying attention.
*𝙄 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮. 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬.*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2024
4.5⭐️
I’ve been enjoying this series which is so wonderfully twisty and twisted. This new book was particularly interesting as we get some details around Northman Technology, the nefarious company behind the reincarnations. The author has built a really complex and compelling world across the three books and I loved how this story still feels connected to Kade and Seth. Xavier and Axel have the feel of star crossed lovers, separated for more than twenty years, the author is able to bring authentic emotions into their romance which grounds the more dark and fanciful elements of the story. Super fun read!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I’ve been enjoying this series which is so wonderfully twisty and twisted. This new book was particularly interesting as we get some details around Northman Technology, the nefarious company behind the reincarnations. The author has built a really complex and compelling world across the three books and I loved how this story still feels connected to Kade and Seth. Xavier and Axel have the feel of star crossed lovers, separated for more than twenty years, the author is able to bring authentic emotions into their romance which grounds the more dark and fanciful elements of the story. Super fun read!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
September 12, 2024
Psychopaths are such fun.
Seriously though, the ones I find in fiction are fun to get to know.
Xavier and Axel are a good mix of feelings and fighting. They aren’t like most couples I read. They argue and fly off the handle and then come back together. Their angst is totally avoidable if someone could just chill for two seconds before slammed doors. … but they can’t.
Looking forward to the next and the next and the next and for as many as Lee writes.
Seriously though, the ones I find in fiction are fun to get to know.
Xavier and Axel are a good mix of feelings and fighting. They aren’t like most couples I read. They argue and fly off the handle and then come back together. Their angst is totally avoidable if someone could just chill for two seconds before slammed doors. … but they can’t.
Looking forward to the next and the next and the next and for as many as Lee writes.
September 2, 2024
Overall Rating: 3 Stars.
Steam Meter: 2 Stars
OW/OM Drama: No.
Cheating: No.
Love Triangle: No.
I've always been fascinated with the concepts of past-lives, reincarnation, and soulmates, and that is something this series primarily follows, which makes it very entertaining and engrossing for me. I just love how two people can be utterly perfect for each other in all versions including in different bodies and different lives. I think the world-building in the "Beyond" universe really is a strong suit of the series and the writing especially given how the plot is overarching throughout the books. There aren't huge chunks of information dumps, but instead little seeds of information throughout the chapters, which makes the plot/details easy to absorb and follow along with.
I also really liked Xavier and Axel as individual characters. Xavier was a little hot-headed and impulsive, but also cared deeply for Axel. He was determined to make up for what he couldn't in height, in muscle and skill, so he could prevent the situation that led to his death 22 years ago and protect Axel. He was so used to being the main "protector" in the relationship. However, even though he tried to come off as very strong, he was also very insecure, which I found to be very realistic given his situation. I think it explored a side of this whole situation that we didn't really see in Beyond Time. It took a lot of time for Xavier to become comfortable with the body he was in as it was so much smaller than his previous one. In the beginning, he was worried that Axel wouldn't be attracted to him anymore because of it. And he was constantly frustrated by the limits of this much more delicate body. He struggled with feeling weak, which made Axel's desire to protect him by keeping him hidden, that much more frustrating. He was also worried that Axel would have preferred Marshall over him if he'd met him, which made him desperate to know that Marshall was gone and wouldn't be coming back. These insecurities made him much more real and dimensional. His nickname for Axel "Sunshine" was also so cute, and it is one of my favorite book nicknames.
In terms of Axel, his grief, guilt, and mourning of Xavier was so raw, even 22 years later. My heart hurt for him. It was just the little things. How Axel closed his every time he slept with someone else. How he made it a point to use things that smelt like Xavier. The connection between Xavier's last words and Axel's tattoo. The necklace/chain. How he recognized Xavier subconsciously, even though he was in a completely different body. How he refused to buy food and other things that Xavier used to like because it reminded him too much of him. And he always went chasing after Xavier when he left. Once they reunited, he was so terrified of losing Xavier again. He tried to keep him hidden and hid the truth from him, which definitely wasn't healthy, but it was understandable. However, Xavier made sure to let him know that he wouldn't be accepting that, which I liked.
They both definitely had major "touch him and die" vibes, and actually followed through with it, which is always a major plus in my book.
I was also excited to see little snippets of Kade and Seth, and I was not disappointed. I loved seeing how Seth talked about Clay. This book also had a fair amount of steam (with tons of edging and praise) that felt natural and wasn't overpowering. There were also so many domestic moments between Xavier and Axel. They had the same vibe as an old married couple. I also thought a cool little detail was how it had been 22 years since his death when Xavier came back, and he was asleep for 22 days when Nathaniel injected him with the serum.
However, my main qualm with the book was that I struggled understanding why they fell in love in the first place? I didn't really feel the chemistry or connection between them, which made me less interested in them as a couple. I felt like they were really lacking on communication, and I just didn't see how they matched up.
I felt that their past was very glossed over in the book, which I think was part of the reason I felt the way I did about their relationship. We get very limited details about how they met, their life while living together, their fights, what led up to Xavier's death. I felt like I was implemented halfway through the story. But then again, I'm also not the biggest fan of the second chance romance trope to begin with, and that is an issue I have with the trope as a whole, so this could be a "me problem," and not the book. Despite this, I think the past was important to show how they ended up where they are today, and the lack of explanation made things a little confusing regarding their dynamic, history, and relationship.
Another little issue I had was the whole situation with what exactly happened when Xavier died. It was said that Axel's father was the cause of Xavier's death. However, I felt like Axel's father was rarely mentioned at all throughout the book, so I thought he would have played a bigger role. Then, when we found out about the marriage proposal, and how Xavier left, I was just very confused. I thought the marriage proposal would be circled back to, but it never was.
I also wish we got a chance to see snippets of Xavier as the confident, cool, and skilled hit man that he used to be. It felt like getting back to that point was one of Xavier's main priorities and desires, but we never really saw it, or the past version of him, which was a little disappointing. And finally, I wish we got to see a few more flashes of Marshall and possibly "his Axel." I also would have liked to see what was on Marshall's flash drive, what he discovered, and his semi-guilt over what happened to Seth and Jayce. However, I understand that this book was primarily about Axel and Xavier, so it makes sense why that was not included more!
I'm also literally gagging for the next book with Otto and London. I'm a sucker for the hate to love trope, and I'm already very intrigued with Otto. He seems very calculated and was just bidding his time. I'm also curious about London, especially when it was mentioned he was a possible dancer, who was sort of just dragged into this mess. Overall, this was a good read, I and will be eagerly awaiting the next book!
Series Ratings
Beyond Time: 3.5-3.75 Stars.
Beyond Fate: 3 Stars.
Beyond Reason: 3 Stars.
Beyond Hate: TBR/TBD.
Steam Meter: 2 Stars
OW/OM Drama: No.
Cheating: No.
Love Triangle: No.
I've always been fascinated with the concepts of past-lives, reincarnation, and soulmates, and that is something this series primarily follows, which makes it very entertaining and engrossing for me. I just love how two people can be utterly perfect for each other in all versions including in different bodies and different lives. I think the world-building in the "Beyond" universe really is a strong suit of the series and the writing especially given how the plot is overarching throughout the books. There aren't huge chunks of information dumps, but instead little seeds of information throughout the chapters, which makes the plot/details easy to absorb and follow along with.
I also really liked Xavier and Axel as individual characters. Xavier was a little hot-headed and impulsive, but also cared deeply for Axel. He was determined to make up for what he couldn't in height, in muscle and skill, so he could prevent the situation that led to his death 22 years ago and protect Axel. He was so used to being the main "protector" in the relationship. However, even though he tried to come off as very strong, he was also very insecure, which I found to be very realistic given his situation. I think it explored a side of this whole situation that we didn't really see in Beyond Time. It took a lot of time for Xavier to become comfortable with the body he was in as it was so much smaller than his previous one. In the beginning, he was worried that Axel wouldn't be attracted to him anymore because of it. And he was constantly frustrated by the limits of this much more delicate body. He struggled with feeling weak, which made Axel's desire to protect him by keeping him hidden, that much more frustrating. He was also worried that Axel would have preferred Marshall over him if he'd met him, which made him desperate to know that Marshall was gone and wouldn't be coming back. These insecurities made him much more real and dimensional. His nickname for Axel "Sunshine" was also so cute, and it is one of my favorite book nicknames.
In terms of Axel, his grief, guilt, and mourning of Xavier was so raw, even 22 years later. My heart hurt for him. It was just the little things. How Axel closed his every time he slept with someone else. How he made it a point to use things that smelt like Xavier. The connection between Xavier's last words and Axel's tattoo. The necklace/chain. How he recognized Xavier subconsciously, even though he was in a completely different body. How he refused to buy food and other things that Xavier used to like because it reminded him too much of him. And he always went chasing after Xavier when he left. Once they reunited, he was so terrified of losing Xavier again. He tried to keep him hidden and hid the truth from him, which definitely wasn't healthy, but it was understandable. However, Xavier made sure to let him know that he wouldn't be accepting that, which I liked.
They both definitely had major "touch him and die" vibes, and actually followed through with it, which is always a major plus in my book.
I was also excited to see little snippets of Kade and Seth, and I was not disappointed. I loved seeing how Seth talked about Clay. This book also had a fair amount of steam (with tons of edging and praise) that felt natural and wasn't overpowering. There were also so many domestic moments between Xavier and Axel. They had the same vibe as an old married couple. I also thought a cool little detail was how it had been 22 years since his death when Xavier came back, and he was asleep for 22 days when Nathaniel injected him with the serum.
However, my main qualm with the book was that I struggled understanding why they fell in love in the first place? I didn't really feel the chemistry or connection between them, which made me less interested in them as a couple. I felt like they were really lacking on communication, and I just didn't see how they matched up.
I felt that their past was very glossed over in the book, which I think was part of the reason I felt the way I did about their relationship. We get very limited details about how they met, their life while living together, their fights, what led up to Xavier's death. I felt like I was implemented halfway through the story. But then again, I'm also not the biggest fan of the second chance romance trope to begin with, and that is an issue I have with the trope as a whole, so this could be a "me problem," and not the book. Despite this, I think the past was important to show how they ended up where they are today, and the lack of explanation made things a little confusing regarding their dynamic, history, and relationship.
Another little issue I had was the whole situation with what exactly happened when Xavier died. It was said that Axel's father was the cause of Xavier's death. However, I felt like Axel's father was rarely mentioned at all throughout the book, so I thought he would have played a bigger role. Then, when we found out about the marriage proposal, and how Xavier left, I was just very confused. I thought the marriage proposal would be circled back to, but it never was.
I also wish we got a chance to see snippets of Xavier as the confident, cool, and skilled hit man that he used to be. It felt like getting back to that point was one of Xavier's main priorities and desires, but we never really saw it, or the past version of him, which was a little disappointing. And finally, I wish we got to see a few more flashes of Marshall and possibly "his Axel." I also would have liked to see what was on Marshall's flash drive, what he discovered, and his semi-guilt over what happened to Seth and Jayce. However, I understand that this book was primarily about Axel and Xavier, so it makes sense why that was not included more!
I'm also literally gagging for the next book with Otto and London. I'm a sucker for the hate to love trope, and I'm already very intrigued with Otto. He seems very calculated and was just bidding his time. I'm also curious about London, especially when it was mentioned he was a possible dancer, who was sort of just dragged into this mess. Overall, this was a good read, I and will be eagerly awaiting the next book!
Series Ratings
Beyond Time: 3.5-3.75 Stars.
Beyond Fate: 3 Stars.
Beyond Reason: 3 Stars.
Beyond Hate: TBR/TBD.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2024
Beyond Reason is book 2 of Lee McCormick’s Beyond series .
« assassin x crime cleaner »
« small/younger top »
« age gap »
« soul mates »
« reincarnation »
« forgotten memories »
« touch him & die »
« hard-won HEA »
Lee McCormick is an auto-buy author at this point to the point where reading the blurb is just unnecessary. You just know it is going to be one hell of a ride! I found Axel and Xavier as a couple to be different from Kade and Seth in book 1. But yet they had all the unaliving, possessive, and touch him and die vibes that I love and have come to expect from this author.
Xavier comes back to life after being dead for 22 years. When he wakes up, he doesn’t have all of his memories back, but his first thought is that he needs to find Axel, even though he didn’t fully know who Axel was to him. I love how this series is not only about reincarnation but how soul mates are tied to each other even across multiple lifetimes. Talk about swoon-worthy!
The beginning of this book ripped by heart out. Lee ripped it out of my chest and put it right through the shredder. The grief Axel experiences is utterly gut retching. Even after 22 years, the grief, loss, and heartbreak had never dulled for him. This type of loss from a love like that broke him – it rewired his brain chemistry; losing Xavier changed him, especially in the way he lost him. Axel battles within himself when Xavier comes back to him. He struggles to believe and trust in the reality of Xavier being back and the all-consuming terror that he may lose him all over again. He tries to distance himself at first but can’t deny his pull towards Xavier and the gift of a second chance that he has been given.
I adored Axel and Xavier. There is an intensity and an all-consuming love between them that is almost indescribable. There is something to powerful about someone who never feels anything but feels everything with that one person. That is Xavier – he in an assassin, enjoys killing, and doesn’t care about anything really, except for Axel. Axel is the softer of the two. He feels things deeply and would be fine with a quiet life where Xavier is safe. He may be softer, but he still works in Xavier’s world and is able to kill and protect when he needs to.
This story was an utterly beautiful continuation to this story. The love that Axel and Xavier have goes beyond time, beyond reason. Absolutely nothing, not even death, will keep them apart.
I absolutely loved seeing more of Seth and Kade! Kade is somehow simultaneously hilarious and absolutely terrifying. I loved seeing this psychopath go completely soft for Seth in book 1, so I loved getting a few more glimpses of that. I hope we get Otto’s story next. I can’t wait for more stories from this world.
[I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.].
« assassin x crime cleaner »
« small/younger top »
« age gap »
« soul mates »
« reincarnation »
« forgotten memories »
« touch him & die »
« hard-won HEA »
Lee McCormick is an auto-buy author at this point to the point where reading the blurb is just unnecessary. You just know it is going to be one hell of a ride! I found Axel and Xavier as a couple to be different from Kade and Seth in book 1. But yet they had all the unaliving, possessive, and touch him and die vibes that I love and have come to expect from this author.
Xavier comes back to life after being dead for 22 years. When he wakes up, he doesn’t have all of his memories back, but his first thought is that he needs to find Axel, even though he didn’t fully know who Axel was to him. I love how this series is not only about reincarnation but how soul mates are tied to each other even across multiple lifetimes. Talk about swoon-worthy!
"I came back because there’s no world that exists where I’m not with you. I came back because you waited for me. Our love is stronger than fate, stronger than time. I’m here because this is the only place I could ever be.”
The beginning of this book ripped by heart out. Lee ripped it out of my chest and put it right through the shredder. The grief Axel experiences is utterly gut retching. Even after 22 years, the grief, loss, and heartbreak had never dulled for him. This type of loss from a love like that broke him – it rewired his brain chemistry; losing Xavier changed him, especially in the way he lost him. Axel battles within himself when Xavier comes back to him. He struggles to believe and trust in the reality of Xavier being back and the all-consuming terror that he may lose him all over again. He tries to distance himself at first but can’t deny his pull towards Xavier and the gift of a second chance that he has been given.
"I wasn’t sure why I ever thought I’d be able to resist him to begin with—Xavier was as inevitable as the sun, the sky, as breathing. He was the universe, and I was helpless to give in to his pull."
I adored Axel and Xavier. There is an intensity and an all-consuming love between them that is almost indescribable. There is something to powerful about someone who never feels anything but feels everything with that one person. That is Xavier – he in an assassin, enjoys killing, and doesn’t care about anything really, except for Axel. Axel is the softer of the two. He feels things deeply and would be fine with a quiet life where Xavier is safe. He may be softer, but he still works in Xavier’s world and is able to kill and protect when he needs to.
“You’ve always been my heartbeat, Axel. You’re the only thing I’ve ever cared about, and maybe that’s why I came back, even though it should have been impossible. Because of you. For you.”
This story was an utterly beautiful continuation to this story. The love that Axel and Xavier have goes beyond time, beyond reason. Absolutely nothing, not even death, will keep them apart.
I absolutely loved seeing more of Seth and Kade! Kade is somehow simultaneously hilarious and absolutely terrifying. I loved seeing this psychopath go completely soft for Seth in book 1, so I loved getting a few more glimpses of that. I hope we get Otto’s story next. I can’t wait for more stories from this world.
[I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.].
September 25, 2024
Another good book in the series.
Jayce and Clay are still my favorite couple at this point. They're story was in a different time period, so even though it didn't add to the series, per se, it gave us more of Jayce, who I liked as a character in the first book.
Axel and Xavier. Spicy, traumatic, grief-stricken men. I think that pretty much sums them up. Axel dealt with some serious trauma and grief. I just felt sad for him. Xavier returning from the dead, still a psychopath, but with feelings. They were both a lot. And for different reasons, too.
I felt the plot development took a little too long, and Xavier's tantrums didn't help endear the story, in my opinion. Once Seth and Kade come into the picture, the plot moves along much better. I actually liked them more in this book than their own.
Seth and Kade's side squeeze, and chin tap will always be the cutest. I like the symbolism of the birthmarks in this series.
Notable Quotes/Musings:
A leopard tearing your throat out over a lion would still leave you just as dead.
++++++++++++++++
“Please, Xavier. I need you.”
Just you.
Only you.
Always you.
++++++++++++++++
“You’ve always been my heartbeat, Axel. You’re the only thing I’ve ever cared about, and maybe that’s why I came back, even though it should have been impossible. Because of you. For you.”
++++++++++++++++
A psychopath was dangerous, but a psychopath being guided by someone who had ambitions of taking down an entire organization because it was the right thing to do?
Well, that was an easy way to get killed, wasn’t it?
++++++++++++++++
Chapter 22 - There's a certain night that gets referenced so much in this story that by this point, I am over it and just wish we rehash it already. Too drawn out.
++++++++++++++++
"...I came back because there’s no world that exists where I’m not with you. I came back because you waited for me. Our love is stronger than fate, stronger than time. I’m here because this is the only place I could ever be."
++++++++++++++++
“I’ll still be here. In everything around you, even when you feel nothing at all. I’ll be every star in the sky, watching over you. I’ll never be so far away that you can’t see me if you look. Just… wait for me.”
++++++++++++++++
“And if there’s any point in our little rescue mission where it comes down to you or Seth, I pick Seth. You pick Seth. Everyone picks Seth. Do you understand?”
[The chuckle I chuckled. 100% Kade.]
++++++++++++++++
Chapters 30 and 31 - 🥺
++++++++++++++++
“Oh, come on. What are we, some kind of little fucked up vigilante psycho group now?”
Jayce and Clay are still my favorite couple at this point. They're story was in a different time period, so even though it didn't add to the series, per se, it gave us more of Jayce, who I liked as a character in the first book.
Axel and Xavier. Spicy, traumatic, grief-stricken men. I think that pretty much sums them up. Axel dealt with some serious trauma and grief. I just felt sad for him. Xavier returning from the dead, still a psychopath, but with feelings. They were both a lot. And for different reasons, too.
I felt the plot development took a little too long, and Xavier's tantrums didn't help endear the story, in my opinion. Once Seth and Kade come into the picture, the plot moves along much better. I actually liked them more in this book than their own.
Seth and Kade's side squeeze, and chin tap will always be the cutest. I like the symbolism of the birthmarks in this series.
Notable Quotes/Musings:
A leopard tearing your throat out over a lion would still leave you just as dead.
++++++++++++++++
“Please, Xavier. I need you.”
Just you.
Only you.
Always you.
++++++++++++++++
“You’ve always been my heartbeat, Axel. You’re the only thing I’ve ever cared about, and maybe that’s why I came back, even though it should have been impossible. Because of you. For you.”
++++++++++++++++
A psychopath was dangerous, but a psychopath being guided by someone who had ambitions of taking down an entire organization because it was the right thing to do?
Well, that was an easy way to get killed, wasn’t it?
++++++++++++++++
Chapter 22 - There's a certain night that gets referenced so much in this story that by this point, I am over it and just wish we rehash it already. Too drawn out.
++++++++++++++++
"...I came back because there’s no world that exists where I’m not with you. I came back because you waited for me. Our love is stronger than fate, stronger than time. I’m here because this is the only place I could ever be."
++++++++++++++++
“I’ll still be here. In everything around you, even when you feel nothing at all. I’ll be every star in the sky, watching over you. I’ll never be so far away that you can’t see me if you look. Just… wait for me.”
++++++++++++++++
“And if there’s any point in our little rescue mission where it comes down to you or Seth, I pick Seth. You pick Seth. Everyone picks Seth. Do you understand?”
[The chuckle I chuckled. 100% Kade.]
++++++++++++++++
Chapters 30 and 31 - 🥺
++++++++++++++++
“Oh, come on. What are we, some kind of little fucked up vigilante psycho group now?”
September 2, 2024
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I’ve really enjoyed what I’ve read from Lee McCormick so far and I’m looking forward to reading more of their books in the future. I thought it was cool how Lee included a snippet of a Playlist at the start of this book. I went to Spotify and listened to it while reading Axel and Xavier’s story. Yes, I listen to music while I read from my Kindle as for some weird reason it makes me concentrate a lot more on the words in the book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was intrigued from page one. The whole concept of living past lives isn’t a new concept but I really enjoyed Lee’s unique spin on it. I thought the chemistry between Axel and Xavier was off the charts as well as hot as hell. Man, do they struggle when Xavier comes back in the body of Marshall, the scientist that Clay injected with the drug to bring past lives forward from the facility during book 1 as it’s been 22 years since Axel lost him after having a massive fight and Xavier walking out to do a job.
Axel was called to the scene of Xavier’s death, since he’s a cleaner which was absolutely heartbreaking. They eventually get there but they fight and make up, that’s just how it’s always been with them and I guess it’s always going to be. When it was revealed the true meaning behind Axel’s tattoo was absolutely beautiful but completely heartbreaking. I loved getting to see Seth and Kade again and seeing their little psycho family of Kade, Seth, Axel and Xavier form to work together to take down everyone that worked with Nathaniel West. Xavier wasn’t at all happy and neither was Kade but what Seth wants, Seth definitely gets. I do believe that Kade wants Seth to have people if anything ever happened to him, even if he would never admit that even under torture. I’ve already Otto and London’s story, Beyond Hate and I’m really looking forward to reading it when it’s released next year, as well as more books from Lee in the future. I’d recommend this book, series and author to others.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
I’ve really enjoyed what I’ve read from Lee McCormick so far and I’m looking forward to reading more of their books in the future. I thought it was cool how Lee included a snippet of a Playlist at the start of this book. I went to Spotify and listened to it while reading Axel and Xavier’s story. Yes, I listen to music while I read from my Kindle as for some weird reason it makes me concentrate a lot more on the words in the book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was intrigued from page one. The whole concept of living past lives isn’t a new concept but I really enjoyed Lee’s unique spin on it. I thought the chemistry between Axel and Xavier was off the charts as well as hot as hell. Man, do they struggle when Xavier comes back in the body of Marshall, the scientist that Clay injected with the drug to bring past lives forward from the facility during book 1 as it’s been 22 years since Axel lost him after having a massive fight and Xavier walking out to do a job.
Axel was called to the scene of Xavier’s death, since he’s a cleaner which was absolutely heartbreaking. They eventually get there but they fight and make up, that’s just how it’s always been with them and I guess it’s always going to be. When it was revealed the true meaning behind Axel’s tattoo was absolutely beautiful but completely heartbreaking. I loved getting to see Seth and Kade again and seeing their little psycho family of Kade, Seth, Axel and Xavier form to work together to take down everyone that worked with Nathaniel West. Xavier wasn’t at all happy and neither was Kade but what Seth wants, Seth definitely gets. I do believe that Kade wants Seth to have people if anything ever happened to him, even if he would never admit that even under torture. I’ve already Otto and London’s story, Beyond Hate and I’m really looking forward to reading it when it’s released next year, as well as more books from Lee in the future. I’d recommend this book, series and author to others.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
August 30, 2024
Ok, I could do what a lot of other reviewers do and basically give you an in-depth synopsis of the story and the plot. I could tell you all the ways that this book ties into the first book, Beyond Time - which features Kade and Seth, who also cameo in this book. I could, but I won't. There are so many good reviews that cover all of this and I don't think I'd be doing much more than just repeating what they've already written. I am, however, going to tell you that this book absolutely slayed me! Lee McCormick is truly gifted in the art of writing dark romance. You don't just read about events, you actually "experience" then. You feel them on a visceral level and come out the other side changed for it. The story of Axel and Xavier and the concept, the idea, of reincarnation, is so eloquently presented that, no matter what your beliefs are before you start the book, by the end you are wishing and hoping that it could actually be true. You become a believer! My heart truly ached for these two men. Axel - One that suffered the horrific pain of losing the one he loved - only to have a stranger claim to be that love. Xavier - One that was robbed of life only to find himself somehow brought back with only scattered memories of who he had been and an intense desire to find the only solid memory he did have - Axel! I am absolutely in love with these books and I honestly can't rave enough about how talented I think the author is. Please do read Beyond Time before this one. Not only is it an amazing read on its own, but it segues right into this story and compliments it perfectly! If I could give 100* stars it still wouldn't be enough to convey how much I loved this and I can only say "Please read it"!
August 30, 2024
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review for the ARC I received.
After the ending of Beyond Time, I was curious how this book would go. I was happy to be back in this world with a twist on soulmates and reincarnation. This book keeps you on your toes and makes you feel a gamut of emotions while reading it. This is a dark romance, which I’m 100% here for. That said, be sure to check out the author’s trigger warnings at the beginning of the book prior to reading.
After Marshall is injected with a serum, Xavier comes back from death and immediately thinks about one person - Axel. Axel (the cleaner) lost his love, Xavier (the killer), twenty-two years ago. Axel is reluctant to believe it at first, but eventually comes around to the idea of Xavier being back. Xavier is struggling with some memory issues, though he clearly remembers Axel. As both MCs navigate their reunion, Xavier and Axel find themselves in regular danger from the facility where Marshall worked.
Axel and Xavier have a unique and strong bond that is evident throughout this story. They are both passionate and possessive (extremely so). The MCs have a lot of ground to cover, but they manage to overcome the hurdles in their lives to reach their hard-earned HEA.
I loved the Seth and Kade cameo in this book! While this book is its own story, I would definitely recommend reading it after the first one in the series.
This is my honest and voluntary review for the ARC I received.
After the ending of Beyond Time, I was curious how this book would go. I was happy to be back in this world with a twist on soulmates and reincarnation. This book keeps you on your toes and makes you feel a gamut of emotions while reading it. This is a dark romance, which I’m 100% here for. That said, be sure to check out the author’s trigger warnings at the beginning of the book prior to reading.
After Marshall is injected with a serum, Xavier comes back from death and immediately thinks about one person - Axel. Axel (the cleaner) lost his love, Xavier (the killer), twenty-two years ago. Axel is reluctant to believe it at first, but eventually comes around to the idea of Xavier being back. Xavier is struggling with some memory issues, though he clearly remembers Axel. As both MCs navigate their reunion, Xavier and Axel find themselves in regular danger from the facility where Marshall worked.
Axel and Xavier have a unique and strong bond that is evident throughout this story. They are both passionate and possessive (extremely so). The MCs have a lot of ground to cover, but they manage to overcome the hurdles in their lives to reach their hard-earned HEA.
I loved the Seth and Kade cameo in this book! While this book is its own story, I would definitely recommend reading it after the first one in the series.
September 1, 2024
This is a must-read! You should read the first book in the series Beyond Time to really understand the current storyline, characters, and references to prior book. Book two runs on the same timeline that is towards the ending events of the book. Kade and Seth's story is important to Axel and Xaviers. There is a symmetry to their character connections through both books. I definalty recommend reading both. I love both that this is duel POV and also the unique soulmate twist. I love the soulmate concept. It is fascinating. I also look forward to it.
Check your cw.
Axel Fetterman is a cleaner, and Xavier Benham is a killer for hire. Axel lost Xavier, and now, twenty-two years later, someone shows up claiming to be his soulmate. Xavier has forgotten memories but remembers Axel. A more complicated problem exists internally, not externally. Xavier's age difference is a larger problem causing friction, where friction is not due. But the love between them is beautiful, it's spicy. The connection is more loving than that. Xavier showing up on Axel's doorstep changes the game and sets a whole new path going forward in the timeline. Old contacts enter the scene, and new alliances are forged. The enemy is a familiar, more deadlier version. In this series, love/ obsession are the moving forces that power all the books and guide every action/reaction. I can't wait to see where the next installment takes the story.
Check your cw.
Axel Fetterman is a cleaner, and Xavier Benham is a killer for hire. Axel lost Xavier, and now, twenty-two years later, someone shows up claiming to be his soulmate. Xavier has forgotten memories but remembers Axel. A more complicated problem exists internally, not externally. Xavier's age difference is a larger problem causing friction, where friction is not due. But the love between them is beautiful, it's spicy. The connection is more loving than that. Xavier showing up on Axel's doorstep changes the game and sets a whole new path going forward in the timeline. Old contacts enter the scene, and new alliances are forged. The enemy is a familiar, more deadlier version. In this series, love/ obsession are the moving forces that power all the books and guide every action/reaction. I can't wait to see where the next installment takes the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2024
I have been hooked on this series from the very first installment that came out in January, and Lee never misses with their writing. Beyond Reason really captured everything that was so compelling about the first book (tearjerking emotion, amazing spice, and keeping you on the edge of your seat) while also bringing something fresh and exciting. The Beyond series is already such a unique and creative premise and Lee still consistently delivers installments that don't feel like copy and pastes of the first book - something that so many series suffer from.
Usually I have a favorite between two main characters (and Clay who reigns supreme over all) but Axel and Xavier both have so much personality that I don't know if I could choose. Regardless, I can safely add two more characters to the list of Lee's boys that have my heart. (Hint: it's every character they've written.)
Seeing Kade and Seth again was amazing, and I loved everything about Axel and Xavier's relationship, even the painful parts. Their chemistry is electric, and I love the idea of a "new to them" size difference dynamic. Honestly, this book makes me want to just go through and reread the whole series.
Another outstanding read by Lee McCormick, and definitely one I'll be adding a physical copy of to my shelf soon!
Usually I have a favorite between two main characters (and Clay who reigns supreme over all) but Axel and Xavier both have so much personality that I don't know if I could choose. Regardless, I can safely add two more characters to the list of Lee's boys that have my heart. (Hint: it's every character they've written.)
Seeing Kade and Seth again was amazing, and I loved everything about Axel and Xavier's relationship, even the painful parts. Their chemistry is electric, and I love the idea of a "new to them" size difference dynamic. Honestly, this book makes me want to just go through and reread the whole series.
Another outstanding read by Lee McCormick, and definitely one I'll be adding a physical copy of to my shelf soon!
August 21, 2024
~~~~~BOOK REVIEW~~~~~
Beyond Reason by Lee McCormick
Comes out august 28th!!! Read the first book beyond time first!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
(May contain spoilers)
Anything Lee writes I will read!!! Xavier was brought back after being dead for 22 years and immediately went to find his past lover axel who continued to age, so this book does have a pretty large age gap (which I’m a sucker for). They then have to navigate people trying to kill them while Xavier tries to uncover all his memories. Kade and Seth make an appearance in this book, And not just a small one, but a big one! I’m really hoping Otto gets his own story, and I’m super curious about what will happen with the twins!!! I’m also usually not one to highlight anything when I’m reading, but i highlighted quite a few things in this book!
��I came back because there’s no world that exists where I’m not with you. I came back because you waited for me. Our love is stronger than fate, stronger than time. I’m here because this is the only place I could ever be”
❤️🔥soul mates
❤️🔥reincarnation
❤️🔥age gap
❤️🔥small top/ bigger bottom
❤️🔥psychopath
❤️🔥touch him and die
#beyondreason #leemccormcik #mmromance #mmbookreview #bookreviewer
Beyond Reason by Lee McCormick
Comes out august 28th!!! Read the first book beyond time first!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
(May contain spoilers)
Anything Lee writes I will read!!! Xavier was brought back after being dead for 22 years and immediately went to find his past lover axel who continued to age, so this book does have a pretty large age gap (which I’m a sucker for). They then have to navigate people trying to kill them while Xavier tries to uncover all his memories. Kade and Seth make an appearance in this book, And not just a small one, but a big one! I’m really hoping Otto gets his own story, and I’m super curious about what will happen with the twins!!! I’m also usually not one to highlight anything when I’m reading, but i highlighted quite a few things in this book!
��I came back because there’s no world that exists where I’m not with you. I came back because you waited for me. Our love is stronger than fate, stronger than time. I’m here because this is the only place I could ever be”
❤️🔥soul mates
❤️🔥reincarnation
❤️🔥age gap
❤️🔥small top/ bigger bottom
❤️🔥psychopath
❤️🔥touch him and die
#beyondreason #leemccormcik #mmromance #mmbookreview #bookreviewer
August 25, 2024
This is the second story in the series. Since the characters from the first story are part of this story it's better if the series is read in order.
This centers on Axel and Xavier. Axel is a cleaner who is in mourning the loss of Xavier. Xavier was a killer for hire. When something happens that makes Axel believe it is possible Xavier is alive there are many things that need to be answered.
Xavier finds himself living again after being dead for twenty-two years. He doesn’t remember or know how all this happened but he is focused on being with Axel. Too bad that isn’t the only issue facing him.
Axel and Xavier face the problem of staying alive so they call on Kade and Seth for help. When these two get involved so many things get answered.
I love the devotion Axel and Xavier have for one another. Their irregular relationship throws in many dangerous situations that keeps the story edgy. I appreciate the author’s detail of the characters personality and history. The evolution of their relationship is heartwarming.
I’m glad to see there will be more stories in this series and that these characters will be part of those stories.
This centers on Axel and Xavier. Axel is a cleaner who is in mourning the loss of Xavier. Xavier was a killer for hire. When something happens that makes Axel believe it is possible Xavier is alive there are many things that need to be answered.
Xavier finds himself living again after being dead for twenty-two years. He doesn’t remember or know how all this happened but he is focused on being with Axel. Too bad that isn’t the only issue facing him.
Axel and Xavier face the problem of staying alive so they call on Kade and Seth for help. When these two get involved so many things get answered.
I love the devotion Axel and Xavier have for one another. Their irregular relationship throws in many dangerous situations that keeps the story edgy. I appreciate the author’s detail of the characters personality and history. The evolution of their relationship is heartwarming.
I’m glad to see there will be more stories in this series and that these characters will be part of those stories.
September 9, 2024
The latest installment in this series offers a fresh take on the concept of rebirth. There were parts when reading this was downright uncomfortable. When tragedy struck, Xavier passed away, Xavier and Axel's love blossomed. After being given a new body more than twenty years later, he is eager to return to Axel, the place he calls home. Reading about their prior emotions and sadness was difficult. The enormity of Axel's grief makes it difficult for him to accept his lover's return, and he alternates between extremes of relief and fear at the prospect of losing him again. It was painful to watch Xavier gradually recollect aspects from his past life since he is missing some of them. The action plot is also included. An expansive plot, which commences in book one and persists here, is present. Forgot to mention that I loved reuniting with Kade and Seth. Particularly terrifying and hilarious is Kade. The idea that two souls are fated to be together in more than one lifetime is only one of the many fascinating themes explored in this series. I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
August 29, 2024
My review may contain spoilers for Beyond Time book 1! No spoilers for this book though! It was great visiting this world again. I love the unique world Lee McCormick has built. Xavier died 22 years before and came back as Marshall, the scientist that Clay stabbed with a needle of the medicine. But Xavier doesn’t have all his memories, they come back to him in pieces and flashes but he immediately remembers Axel. Axel has been devastated with the loss of Xavier for 22 years. So when a young man says he is Xavier it’s a little tough for him to believe and a lot hard to let him in because he doesn’t want to be hurt like that again. These two fight and make up a lot. They have to work through their own problems, Xavier not remembering everything and Axel’s fear that he will remember everything and he’ll lose Xavier all over again. This book has a lot of slow moments while Xavier is getting his memory back, tho they are being hunted by the facility that Marshall worked for. When everything goes sideways, an old acquaintance is called in to help, and here we see Kade and Seth again which was amazing! Absolutely adore those two. Axel and Xavier overcome a lot. Xavier isn’t in the kind of body he’s used to, and Axel has to get over that too. There is size difference, age gap, memory loss, reincarnation, lots of fighting, and some steamy times, makes for a fun read. Well written and such a creative new world.
August 25, 2024
This book starts where the last book ended with Clay injecting the serum into a worker whilst Kade and Seth burned down the facility. The worker was Marshall Lister and unbeknownst to them he was doing his own research as he had come to the conclusion what was happening was unethical. 22 years ago assassin Xavier Benham was killed so how was he now in a hospital bed not knowing what happened to him with only his wallet cell phone and a usb drive and why did they keep calling him Marshall . The only thing on his mind was to get to Axel but when he gets there Axel obviously doesn’t recognise him but the things he says and his quirks Axel starts to come to terms with it might be Xavier . With more people trying to capture Marshall/Xavier for Nathaniel West Axel knows he has to protect him so he asks an old acquaintance for help. Another fabulous book from Lee and those cameos were perfection I sat riveted for several hours I didn’t want to move until I finished it and now I can’t wait for the next book and have a few theories who the book might be about 😃
August 27, 2024
Gosh how I’ve enjoyed these books so far. They are so fascinating to me, the idea of past life and reincarnation is way out there to a lot of people but so incredibly interesting.
This book starts close to the ending of book 1, Beyond Time, where Clay/Seth injects Marshall (a scientist at the facility) with the serum to bring back past lives.
This book follows Axel and Xavier. They were young lovers in a dangerous world, Axel is The Cleaner and Xavier was a hitman.
Xavier who’s been dead for over 20 years comes back after Marshall is injected with an experimental serum. After waking up his first thought is “Axel.” Axel is skeptical of course but eventually believes him. They have people after them as they try to rebuild their connection and figure out how Xavier was able to come back. So they ask for help from Kade and Seth (how I enjoyed their cameo!) to try to get to the bottom of what was happening and how to stop it.
I hope to see more of this world! We got to meet new characters. Otto was pretty fascinating so fingers crossed for more books!
**I would recommend reading book 1, Beyond Time, before this one for a better understanding and more enjoyable read**
This book starts close to the ending of book 1, Beyond Time, where Clay/Seth injects Marshall (a scientist at the facility) with the serum to bring back past lives.
This book follows Axel and Xavier. They were young lovers in a dangerous world, Axel is The Cleaner and Xavier was a hitman.
Xavier who’s been dead for over 20 years comes back after Marshall is injected with an experimental serum. After waking up his first thought is “Axel.” Axel is skeptical of course but eventually believes him. They have people after them as they try to rebuild their connection and figure out how Xavier was able to come back. So they ask for help from Kade and Seth (how I enjoyed their cameo!) to try to get to the bottom of what was happening and how to stop it.
I hope to see more of this world! We got to meet new characters. Otto was pretty fascinating so fingers crossed for more books!
**I would recommend reading book 1, Beyond Time, before this one for a better understanding and more enjoyable read**
August 28, 2024
Till Death Do Us Part? Nah
Marriage vows say Till Death Do Us Part, but the truth is you don't stop loving someone when they die. That's especially true for Axel Fetterman, who lost the love of his life twenty-two years ago. This is also true for Xavier Benham, who died twenty-two years ago and only has one person on his mind.
Both of these men lived in risky professions surrounded by death. It was inevitable it would come for them eventually. But the world keeps on turning even after death. When mass destruction leaves Xavier awake again, the sole survivor, there's only one place he can go and that's back home. Home is Axel, who burns carpets in his fireplace against regulations and good sense. Home is a man who took him in the last time, and who'll do it again even if he doesn't-- quite-- believe it's Xavier.
Home is a man who refuses to lose him twice, and is going to make the world burn for threatening him.
Marriage vows say Till Death Do Us Part, but the truth is you don't stop loving someone when they die. That's especially true for Axel Fetterman, who lost the love of his life twenty-two years ago. This is also true for Xavier Benham, who died twenty-two years ago and only has one person on his mind.
Both of these men lived in risky professions surrounded by death. It was inevitable it would come for them eventually. But the world keeps on turning even after death. When mass destruction leaves Xavier awake again, the sole survivor, there's only one place he can go and that's back home. Home is Axel, who burns carpets in his fireplace against regulations and good sense. Home is a man who took him in the last time, and who'll do it again even if he doesn't-- quite-- believe it's Xavier.
Home is a man who refuses to lose him twice, and is going to make the world burn for threatening him.
August 30, 2024
Beyond Reason is a beautiful and sometimes heartbreaking story about two men having a love that could never die. This is the story of Axel and Xavier. 22 years ago, Axel and Xavier are together, Xavier being a hitman and Axel being the cleanup. These two had what appeared to be a very deep love for each other. During one of his missions, Xavier gets shot; and Axel is the one called to his scene. We flash forward those 22 years to present - Axel is 40, and Xavier wakes up being called the name Marshall.
This story was hard to read at times because you can tell Axel has spent years grieving and pining for what he lost, his grief is deep and extremely profound. If you've ever lost someone, some of these scenes may resonate, and at times that was hard for me - but the book itself is a beautiful telling of true soulmates and how a love that deep never ends.
*Note, I don't think it is essential, but it would be recommended to read Beyond Time prior to reading this one.*
This story was hard to read at times because you can tell Axel has spent years grieving and pining for what he lost, his grief is deep and extremely profound. If you've ever lost someone, some of these scenes may resonate, and at times that was hard for me - but the book itself is a beautiful telling of true soulmates and how a love that deep never ends.
*Note, I don't think it is essential, but it would be recommended to read Beyond Time prior to reading this one.*
September 26, 2024
'He could go anywhere. He could have anyone… And for some reason, he was choosing me.'
I loved this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. I both loved and was fascinated by the premise of this story. I loved Axel and Xavier and the dynamic between them. Their first meeting was unique, but the chemistry was there (well, shortly after the first meeting for obvious reasons). It was clear there were ups and downs, and we get their initial relationship almost in flashes before it's over. I wish it was detailed more. Really get a feel for their relationship and bond. I loved the way their second meeting was handled. Xavier's confusion about the new body, lack of memories, and unsure of everything except one- Axel Fetterman. I also loved the pull Axel felt to a stranger whose mannerisms were just like Xavier's. But how could it be? It must be a set up.. right?
This story had action, passion, sorrow, and love. I was hooked. 5 stars.
I loved this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. I both loved and was fascinated by the premise of this story. I loved Axel and Xavier and the dynamic between them. Their first meeting was unique, but the chemistry was there (well, shortly after the first meeting for obvious reasons). It was clear there were ups and downs, and we get their initial relationship almost in flashes before it's over. I wish it was detailed more. Really get a feel for their relationship and bond. I loved the way their second meeting was handled. Xavier's confusion about the new body, lack of memories, and unsure of everything except one- Axel Fetterman. I also loved the pull Axel felt to a stranger whose mannerisms were just like Xavier's. But how could it be? It must be a set up.. right?
This story had action, passion, sorrow, and love. I was hooked. 5 stars.
August 28, 2024
Xavier was a hitman and Axel a young man who cleaned up the kill scenes 22 years ago and they loved each other. But Xavier died. He wakes up in the body of Marshall and all he remembers and needs is Axel and has to convince his older lover he's back. Someone is trying to kill him. It seems unbelievable Xavier is back in a younger, smaller body but still just as cocky and dominant. This series makes you hold your breath the whole time you read it. It seems impossible and confusing but amazing and wonderful with violent and romantic mixed in. They have an obsessive love that cannot be denied, a love that conquers time for the soulmates. Kade and Seth are back as the four try to stop the madness of West. Another ten star book disguised and limited by a five star rating system, one that leaves a lasting impression. I am in love with Lee's writing and the originalness of this series.
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