Strays

By: A.J. Thomas

Narrated by: Noel Harrison

Orphaned at a young age and raised in the foster system, Jory Smith has no idea he's half incubus. He only knows he has the power to heal people, making himself sick in the process. Exploited by a crooked faith healer who sells his abilities and his life to the highest bidder and then left for dead, Jory flees, falling into a job at a small-town cafe where he can put his lifelong obsession with baking to good use. But the minister who exploited him wants him back.

Exiled hellhound turned bounty hunter Malpheus Pelle has no idea why his human client wants him to track down an incubus. Jory is traumatized and afraid to touch anyone, an emotional handicap that could prove fatal for a demon who requires physical contact. Needing answers, Mal concocts a disastrous plan: pretend to date Jory to uncover the truth. Unfortunately, his plan never included dealing with an ancient demon assassin, Jory's orgasmic pumpkin cookies, or losing his heart to the incubus he's supposed to be hunting....

Contains mature themes.

©2018 A. J. Thomas (P)2019 Tantor

Generally enjoyable, nice starting twist!

It would be easy for this story to be a predictable mess of demons and the humans in their way. Instead, there are some nice twists along the way, and a great opening that focuses on how anyone can be manipulated for someone else's gain.

Harrison's narration is perfectly pleasant and keeps the story moving. He doesn't get mired in theatrics when moments of drama pop up, which is a gift I appreciate.

My main complaint is that the story leans heavily into misunderstanding to fuel the conflict. When handled well, I can work with it. I do not think it was handled very well in this book. When Jory finally snaps, which the reader can tell a mile away is going to happen, he is the kind happy to burn it all down rather than assess the situation. For me that was a really unfortunate choice as Mal, and the guardian demons are really well written and have a clear intent on being a help rather than hindrance.

I still recommend, although without as much enthusiasm as I could have, if Thomas hadn't grabbed the easiest trope to propel the story forward. The first half of the book, including the mid portion as the guys get to know each other is really solid. Sometimes we have to overlook the authors choices.

Exciting and Adorable

Exciting and adorable. I will read more… I hope there are more!
Great Cinderella and the Huntsman vibe.

interesting premise and nice couple of twists but the whole thing was flat and unengaging

interesting premise and nice couple of twists but the whole thing was flat and unengaging

New to me narrator

I have several books by A.J. Thomas and they’re all good. I liked the world building in this book and see the potential for a series here, though this book had a satisfying HEA. I would love to learn more about Neil.
Mr Harrison did an admirable job distinguishing the various voices, including the feminine ones. Though his intimate scenes were acceptable, I feel I’m spoiled by a few other narrators who really make me feel the burn! All in all though, I will be looking for other books narrated by Mr. Harrison.

hoping for a sequel

loved the story and characters. hoping for a sequel. can't wait for more. .