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Out of Uniform #6
Tight Quarters
Petty Officer Bacon, a navy SEAL and ace sharpshooter, has been on the front lines of more than his fair share of dangerous ops. Yet when a minor injury relegates him to the beta team, he’s tasked with what may be his riskiest assignment the silver fox journalist he’s babysitting is the hottest, most charismatic man he’s ever encountered.
Award-winning journalist Spencer Bryant may have been named one of Pride magazine’s most eligible bachelors of the year, but he’s not looking to change his relationship status. He’s a consummate professional who won’t risk his ethics or impeccable reputation by getting involved with a source. Even a sexy-as-hell military man. But while Spencer can resist his physical attraction to Bacon, he has less control over his emotions—especially when the mission goes sideways and the two men are trapped alone.
Getting out of the jungle alive turns out to be easy compared to facing the truth about their feelings for one another back in the real world. And whether or not they can build a future is a different story altogether.
This book is approximately 82,000 words
One-click with confidence. This title is part of the Carina Press Romance Promise: all the romance you’re looking for with an HEA/HFN. It’s a promise!
Award-winning journalist Spencer Bryant may have been named one of Pride magazine’s most eligible bachelors of the year, but he’s not looking to change his relationship status. He’s a consummate professional who won’t risk his ethics or impeccable reputation by getting involved with a source. Even a sexy-as-hell military man. But while Spencer can resist his physical attraction to Bacon, he has less control over his emotions—especially when the mission goes sideways and the two men are trapped alone.
Getting out of the jungle alive turns out to be easy compared to facing the truth about their feelings for one another back in the real world. And whether or not they can build a future is a different story altogether.
This book is approximately 82,000 words
One-click with confidence. This title is part of the Carina Press Romance Promise: all the romance you’re looking for with an HEA/HFN. It’s a promise!
336 pages, ebook
First published July 9, 2018
About the author
Annabeth Albert
97 books3,545 followersFrequent tweeter, professional grammar nerd, and obsessive reader, Annabeth Albert is also a Pacific Northwest romance writer in a variety of subgenres.
Emotionally complex, sexy, and funny stories are her favorites both to read and to write. In between searching out dark heroes to redeem, she works a rewarding day job and wrangles two toddlers.
Emotionally complex, sexy, and funny stories are her favorites both to read and to write. In between searching out dark heroes to redeem, she works a rewarding day job and wrangles two toddlers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 491 reviews
May 3, 2018
Stay. Your laughter fills every hole in my soul. Stay in my bed, in my life, in my heart. Stay.
A Navy SEAL with deadly precision.
A journalist who lives for the story.
When desires collide, no one escapes unscathed.
From the first moment, Bacon lays eyes on Spencer, he knows he's in trouble. As an embedded journalist, Spencer becomes Bacon's charge. Bacon wants to be in the thick of the action, but he's stuck babysitting. It's not Spencer's fault, but Bacon can't help but be resentful. One thing Bacon has to grudgingly admit, however, is that Spencer is in amazing shape. For an old guy.
Spencer is 15 years Bacon's senior. Bacon hasn't hit 30; Spencer passed 40. But age really is just a number, and the age gap is entirely irrelevant here.
The problem is that Spencer wants to write a book about how the military fails its veterans, a book the Navy, which released Spencer after a mission went seriously wrong, will be none too happy about.
Spencer has to choose: Bacon or the story?
Both of these men are multi-faceted, complex characters. Bacon, who's pan, is a sniper whose job is to kill the enemy, but he's not a heartless guy. He's giving, loyal, and cares about his comrades, even the ones who throw out homophobic remarks like candy.
Spencer was once married and has a friendly relationship with his ex-husband. He travels constantly and lives to get the big scoop. Spencer has no time for love, yet he finds himself falling for Bacon.
Slower now, more sensual ... until all Spencer knew was this man, this song, this rhythm that they built together.
Tight Quarters, brimming with passion, romance, and action, had me on the edge of the metaphorical seat.
The first part, when Spencer is in the field with Bacon, is fast-paced and riveting, but the story mellows once Spencer returns home and starts corresponding with Bacon.
And mellow most definitely does not translate to boring. Spencer and Bacon enjoy hanging out and making out. While on deployment, Bacon misses Spencer's cooking, his bed, and his fancy shower. But more than anything, he misses Spencer.
When Bacon returns from a rough mission that causes him serious anxiety for the first time in years, Spencer is there to hold and soothe him. And when Spencer's mind overflows with ideas, Bacon's the first person he wants to call.
I loved how STRONG their relationship was; they had incredible chemistry, but they also talked and shared and laughed. I believed in them because they were real.
Out of all the things (and there are many), these are worthy of a medal:
- the SEX (because it's delicious and dirty and plentiful; the guys are very expressive in bed, where anything goes)
- Bacon's name (Bacon hated his father and hates his name, but Spencer makes it something tender between just the two of them. Spencer calls Bacon , and when Bacon's mother asks him why, he replies, Because that's who he is to me. I like having something special to call him. He's special to me.)
- Spencer's friend and mentor, Oscar, whose final words broke my heart (and made Spencer realize that he made the wrong choice)
- the ending (because it's perfect and afuckingdorable, and made my heart unclench; plus, we get to visit Wes and Dustin and their fluffy cat)
No story is more important than ours. The one we're creating. Our story.
June 11, 2018
Annabeth Albert keeps the magic going with Tight Quarters, the latest in her Out of Uniform series!
I adore Annabeth Albert and everything that she does, so it's really no surprise that I enjoyed the sixth book in her consistently stellar series.
What this author does SO right for me is get the perfect mix of desire, angst, heat, and longing with her queer military men, and this book was no different. I LOVED the pansexual Bacon and his painful backstory and his chemistry with the older, distinguished former dancer-turned-journalist, Spenser.
I loved that the angst never felt manufactured, but it was there never-the-less. These guys don't get a simple HEA- they have to fight for it. I was rooting for these men, especially in the second half of the story when I really became emotionally invested.
Also... I mean, I couldn't get an emo-muscled Bacon out of my head. Eyeliner and tight jeans... dreamy sigh.
While Tight Quarters isn't my favorite of this amazing series, I would still read it every day and twice on Sundays. Annabeth Albert never lets me down.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
I adore Annabeth Albert and everything that she does, so it's really no surprise that I enjoyed the sixth book in her consistently stellar series.
What this author does SO right for me is get the perfect mix of desire, angst, heat, and longing with her queer military men, and this book was no different. I LOVED the pansexual Bacon and his painful backstory and his chemistry with the older, distinguished former dancer-turned-journalist, Spenser.
I loved that the angst never felt manufactured, but it was there never-the-less. These guys don't get a simple HEA- they have to fight for it. I was rooting for these men, especially in the second half of the story when I really became emotionally invested.
Also... I mean, I couldn't get an emo-muscled Bacon out of my head. Eyeliner and tight jeans... dreamy sigh.
While Tight Quarters isn't my favorite of this amazing series, I would still read it every day and twice on Sundays. Annabeth Albert never lets me down.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
May 21, 2018
3.5
I haven't read any of the previous books in this series but that didn't spoil my enjoyment here so this can be read as,a standalone.The characters from previous books (I'm guessing) fit perfectly into the story.
Spencer Bryant is a successful journalist and is lucky enough to get himself embedded with a Naval Seal Team.He is the ultimate professional and the last thing he's expecting is any kind of involvement with anyone but he hadn't bargained on temptation to be put in his way in the form of a hot as hell ace sharpshooter...
Bacon is used to being on the front line,something he lives for but a minor injury finds him having to take a step back and he's definitely not happy about having to look out for a journalist...
This one didn't exactly grab me but overall it was enjoyable,
-there's no denying the attraction between the two men,the pacing of their relationship was just right.
-the sex scenes are not overly descriptive but they didn't need to be here and they just worked for me.Sometimes a book can be very sexy without pages and pages of long drawn out scenes and I think the reason this worked for me was because the men had a believable chemistry.
-it took me a while to warm to Spencer but I absolutely loved Bacon and he's one of the reasons for my enjoyment here.
-a bit of drama,which I could totally see coming unfortunately.
Conclusion: I would recommend it,especially for fans of this series.
Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
I haven't read any of the previous books in this series but that didn't spoil my enjoyment here so this can be read as,a standalone.The characters from previous books (I'm guessing) fit perfectly into the story.
Spencer Bryant is a successful journalist and is lucky enough to get himself embedded with a Naval Seal Team.He is the ultimate professional and the last thing he's expecting is any kind of involvement with anyone but he hadn't bargained on temptation to be put in his way in the form of a hot as hell ace sharpshooter...
Bacon is used to being on the front line,something he lives for but a minor injury finds him having to take a step back and he's definitely not happy about having to look out for a journalist...
This one didn't exactly grab me but overall it was enjoyable,
-there's no denying the attraction between the two men,the pacing of their relationship was just right.
-the sex scenes are not overly descriptive but they didn't need to be here and they just worked for me.Sometimes a book can be very sexy without pages and pages of long drawn out scenes and I think the reason this worked for me was because the men had a believable chemistry.
-it took me a while to warm to Spencer but I absolutely loved Bacon and he's one of the reasons for my enjoyment here.
-a bit of drama,which I could totally see coming unfortunately.
Conclusion: I would recommend it,especially for fans of this series.
Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
July 7, 2018
Won’t lie, I wanted this ARC simply because I loved the cover😍
I’m gonna be honest, I did overall enjoy this book, but it took me awhile to get into it. There was a lot going on when I started this including book hangovers, so starting books is hard for me when my mind is elsewhere, so I’ll blame it on that because honestly Spencer & Bacon are hot. And yes, Bacon is sizzling, I definitely enjoyed him most.
This is your normal m/m book with some added drama and a bit of angst. Chemistry and passion is undeniably heavy in this book😍. So if I love just chemistry, hotness, and passion, oh and throw in sexy, this book would hands down be 5 stars. I just didn’t get the WOW factor on the rest. Yet still, it worked with the added bonuses of above =))
I’m gonna be honest, I did overall enjoy this book, but it took me awhile to get into it. There was a lot going on when I started this including book hangovers, so starting books is hard for me when my mind is elsewhere, so I’ll blame it on that because honestly Spencer & Bacon are hot. And yes, Bacon is sizzling, I definitely enjoyed him most.
This is your normal m/m book with some added drama and a bit of angst. Chemistry and passion is undeniably heavy in this book😍. So if I love just chemistry, hotness, and passion, oh and throw in sexy, this book would hands down be 5 stars. I just didn’t get the WOW factor on the rest. Yet still, it worked with the added bonuses of above =))
July 17, 2018
Extraño porque no soy fan de los libros de militares, pero sí lo soy de esta serie de Annabeth Albert. Es más, he leído otros libros de la misma autora y no me han gustado tanto como algunos de Out of Uniform.
3.5
Sin embargo, aunque me ha gustado y me he entretenido, no es uno de mis favoritos. En la historia de amor entre el SEAL y el periodista, con diferencia de edad incluida, me ha faltado desarrollar más simpatía hacia Spencer, el periodista que va como agregado a una misión. Quizás por su profesión, quizás por su carácter, pero me ha parecido en ciertos tramos algo soberbio, prepotente y egoísta. No he terminado de ver completamente su conexión con Del, que se complementen, más allá de la cama. Su relación incluso ha habido momentos en que me ha parecido fría... He de decir que mi percepción puede verse muy afectada por mi visión del trabajo de los periodistas en muchas ocasiones, no he conseguido llegar a simpatizar con Spencer.
Pero, hay algo que siempre digo, los protagonistas no tienen que ser lo que yo quiero, tienen que gustarse el uno al otro como pareja, y si a Del le gusta... xD
Entretenido, con sus momentos románticos y sexy, y ya sé que decir esto en un libro sobre militares cae en lo absurdo, pero yo quitaría algo del aspecto militar.
Una buena adición a la serie.
3.5
Sin embargo, aunque me ha gustado y me he entretenido, no es uno de mis favoritos. En la historia de amor entre el SEAL y el periodista, con diferencia de edad incluida, me ha faltado desarrollar más simpatía hacia Spencer, el periodista que va como agregado a una misión. Quizás por su profesión, quizás por su carácter, pero me ha parecido en ciertos tramos algo soberbio, prepotente y egoísta. No he terminado de ver completamente su conexión con Del, que se complementen, más allá de la cama. Su relación incluso ha habido momentos en que me ha parecido fría... He de decir que mi percepción puede verse muy afectada por mi visión del trabajo de los periodistas en muchas ocasiones, no he conseguido llegar a simpatizar con Spencer.
Pero, hay algo que siempre digo, los protagonistas no tienen que ser lo que yo quiero, tienen que gustarse el uno al otro como pareja, y si a Del le gusta... xD
Entretenido, con sus momentos románticos y sexy, y ya sé que decir esto en un libro sobre militares cae en lo absurdo, pero yo quitaría algo del aspecto militar.
Una buena adición a la serie.
May 23, 2018
5 stars
This one ended being my favorite book in the series. I truly fell in love with these characters. This story felt SO real!
I'll admit the slow burn was hard to handle. But we get many details before deployments and during some missions. This author focuses not only on the romance but gives us a lot of action too.
We got here some pretty complex characters. Their back stories are great. The MCs are very good at their jobs.
Bacon is a sexy and confident SEAL. He loves his team and he dreams about becoming a chief. When Spencer Bryant comes along, a reporter who won himself an opportunity to write a military story, he's conflicted.
I loved their conversations and their banter. And once they gave into temptation, this story got better and better. They fit so well and it surprised me so much to discover they were exactly what the other needed. There are many extremely hot scenes but also tender and sweet ones.
The angst is bearable and what I absolutely loved here would be the uniqueness of the characters. They felt so real. Bacon's full name made me smile, but I loved the nickname Spence picked for him. It suited him!
I loved the last chapters. Such sweet and also funny scenes. Just like the characters.
I was glad to revisit some of the other couples from the previous books, but this book can be read as a stand alone. You just have to stick to the story because the slow burn might be too much at times.
ARC kindly provided by Carina Press, through NetGalley.
This one ended being my favorite book in the series. I truly fell in love with these characters. This story felt SO real!
I'll admit the slow burn was hard to handle. But we get many details before deployments and during some missions. This author focuses not only on the romance but gives us a lot of action too.
We got here some pretty complex characters. Their back stories are great. The MCs are very good at their jobs.
Bacon is a sexy and confident SEAL. He loves his team and he dreams about becoming a chief. When Spencer Bryant comes along, a reporter who won himself an opportunity to write a military story, he's conflicted.
I loved their conversations and their banter. And once they gave into temptation, this story got better and better. They fit so well and it surprised me so much to discover they were exactly what the other needed. There are many extremely hot scenes but also tender and sweet ones.
The angst is bearable and what I absolutely loved here would be the uniqueness of the characters. They felt so real. Bacon's full name made me smile, but I loved the nickname Spence picked for him. It suited him!
I loved the last chapters. Such sweet and also funny scenes. Just like the characters.
I was glad to revisit some of the other couples from the previous books, but this book can be read as a stand alone. You just have to stick to the story because the slow burn might be too much at times.
ARC kindly provided by Carina Press, through NetGalley.
May 7, 2018
3.75 Stars!
I liked this one. I just didn't love it. For some reason it just didn't hold my attention.
But I liked both MCs, which doesn't always happen with my friend Annabeth.
The cover was hot.
I don't know, I don't have any other real complaints. It just didn't wow me.
I am curious about Rooster, hope his book is next.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I liked this one. I just didn't love it. For some reason it just didn't hold my attention.
But I liked both MCs, which doesn't always happen with my friend Annabeth.
The cover was hot.
I don't know, I don't have any other real complaints. It just didn't wow me.
I am curious about Rooster, hope his book is next.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
January 27, 2019
3.5 Stars!
Bacon... I was really looking forward to his book. Unfortunately it ended up being the one in the series I liked the least.
Bacon has had a minor injury to his hand that has put him on the side-lines for their next mission. He's not taking it too well since he is use to being the one on the front lines having his teams back. He's especially not happy to be given the job of protecting a reporter who has been embedded into their team for this mission. He has no desire to "baby-sit" this man who is somewhat well known and out and proud. Ever since Strauss and Lowe bowed out the team has been on edge and making some non gay friendly remarks. All he needs is this reporter to hear his team making these off color comments and write about it. He also doesn't need this unwanted attraction he has towards this much older cultured man. Spencer is determined to prove to Bacon that he won't be a hindrance or a distraction on this mission and that he will be able to keep up. He's a stickler for keeping things professional and keeping his record impeccable. So the attraction he feels towards Bacon catches him off guard. Although he keeps his attraction on lock down he can't control the emotional pull he has towards this enigmatic man.
My main problem with the book was that I couldn't feel the connection between Spencer and Del (Bacon). It took more than half of the book for me to finally feel the chemistry between these two men. The attraction was there, but it took a long time for the emotional connection to register. There were some really great emotional scene's between these men in the last quarter of the book where I finally started to see that, yes, these men fit together. I'm just disappointed it took so long for them to get to that point.
Happy reading dolls! xx
I received an ARC from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Bacon... I was really looking forward to his book. Unfortunately it ended up being the one in the series I liked the least.
Bacon has had a minor injury to his hand that has put him on the side-lines for their next mission. He's not taking it too well since he is use to being the one on the front lines having his teams back. He's especially not happy to be given the job of protecting a reporter who has been embedded into their team for this mission. He has no desire to "baby-sit" this man who is somewhat well known and out and proud. Ever since Strauss and Lowe bowed out the team has been on edge and making some non gay friendly remarks. All he needs is this reporter to hear his team making these off color comments and write about it. He also doesn't need this unwanted attraction he has towards this much older cultured man. Spencer is determined to prove to Bacon that he won't be a hindrance or a distraction on this mission and that he will be able to keep up. He's a stickler for keeping things professional and keeping his record impeccable. So the attraction he feels towards Bacon catches him off guard. Although he keeps his attraction on lock down he can't control the emotional pull he has towards this enigmatic man.
My main problem with the book was that I couldn't feel the connection between Spencer and Del (Bacon). It took more than half of the book for me to finally feel the chemistry between these two men. The attraction was there, but it took a long time for the emotional connection to register. There were some really great emotional scene's between these men in the last quarter of the book where I finally started to see that, yes, these men fit together. I'm just disappointed it took so long for them to get to that point.
Happy reading dolls! xx
I received an ARC from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2018
Another great addition to this amazing series about military men! I have to admit, it was a relief to read this book and absolutely love it, because I wasn't impressed by the previous one. "Tight Quarters" takes us back to what we are used to from this series; it's realistic, well developed and has believable, perfectly flawed characters.
Bacon - no, I'm not going to tell you his name - and Spencer met while Spencer was embeded with Bacon's team and doing research for a book he wanted to write. Their connection wasn't instant, but it was something pretty close to it. They remained professional until there was no conflict of interest, even though they were both interested, and then began a somewhat complicated relationship.
There is an age gap, but the difference in the MCs ages doesn't feature a lot in the plot. They had bigger problems that threatened to keep them apart than that. At first, I thought Spencer overreacted about not being able to write his book and have a relationship with Bacon just to add some drama to the story, but after a conversation the two of them had it became apparent that the conflict was real and it wouldn't be possible for both things to happen. I have to admit that the "compromise" he came up with was extremely selfish and unreasonable, since the only one who would have to compromise would have been Bacon while Spencer would have been able to keep everything he wanted without having to give anything up.
I liked the solution they came up with in the end though, so I was back to liking Spencer again! It's amazing how the author manages to create these situations where there seems to be no perfect solution and yet in the end her characters manage to find a way out and emerge happy and together. The amazing part is that the situation and the conflict doesn't seem silly or superficial; they are real problems and the potential to tear the MCs apart is very present. I like how the author is putting us through the grinder only to give us the perfect ending later on. She did that with Wheels Up and it left me surprised and satisfied in the end. In my opinion, she missed it in Squared Away, but she's allowed a strike. She brought it back in Tight Quarters, though, and I hope she grabs a hold of it and presents it to us again in the next books. Book #7 is going to be Rooster's story and I'm curious who he's going to be paired up with. He's a self-confident and laid back guy, that's for sure, so his story ought to be interesting.
That reminds me of another reason I like this series so much: the characters know each other and there is some loose connection from one story to another, but it's not an unrealistic world filled with gay couples who found their HEA during a previous story. It's what happens after a few books in most series and it's just not realistic. How possible is it that every member of a random SEAL team is gay or bi or anything else that makes them involved with another guy? I don't think the odds are good of that happening, so I like that it doesn't in these books either. Not every character we meet is a future MC, some are just there to provide a social circle and add to the realstic aspect of the plot; nothing more and nothing less than that. All the main characters are connected somehow (either relatives, friends, teammates, casual acquaintances) and some make appearances, but as the number of books rises old characters don't suffocate the plot. They complement it and are there in the periphery to support the MCs of each book.
I liked that during the mission, when Spencer was embeded, there were no heroics and there was no disobedience of orders. They stuck to what they were told to do and it was pretty amazing to read a story so believable instead of the usual plot where the MC always becomes the hero and there are never any consequences. So, congratulations to the author for sticking to a realistic approach and bringing us a story so close to what I imagine the real thing would be like. It's just one more reason why I love this series so much. Annabeth Albert's research and dedication to stick as close to reality as possible is refreshing and makes me always come back to this series.
You want to know what made me like this story even more? It made me want to read Wheels Up, one of my top 2 favorite books in the Out of Uniform series, all over again! (I advise you to skip the rest of the paragraph if you haven't read "Wheels Up" yet.) Lowe and Dustin are still going strong and living happily in DC, working together in private security, as they had planned. There are mentions of events that happened in their book and it brought back all the reasons I fell in love with those two characters in the first place, and I know that's technically about another book, but their mention made me like this one even more than I would have otherwise.
So, in case it hasn't been clear: 5 stars for another great addition to this series. I hope there are many more books to come!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
Bacon - no, I'm not going to tell you his name - and Spencer met while Spencer was embeded with Bacon's team and doing research for a book he wanted to write. Their connection wasn't instant, but it was something pretty close to it. They remained professional until there was no conflict of interest, even though they were both interested, and then began a somewhat complicated relationship.
There is an age gap, but the difference in the MCs ages doesn't feature a lot in the plot. They had bigger problems that threatened to keep them apart than that. At first, I thought Spencer overreacted about not being able to write his book and have a relationship with Bacon just to add some drama to the story, but after a conversation the two of them had it became apparent that the conflict was real and it wouldn't be possible for both things to happen. I have to admit that the "compromise" he came up with was extremely selfish and unreasonable, since the only one who would have to compromise would have been Bacon while Spencer would have been able to keep everything he wanted without having to give anything up.
I liked the solution they came up with in the end though, so I was back to liking Spencer again! It's amazing how the author manages to create these situations where there seems to be no perfect solution and yet in the end her characters manage to find a way out and emerge happy and together. The amazing part is that the situation and the conflict doesn't seem silly or superficial; they are real problems and the potential to tear the MCs apart is very present. I like how the author is putting us through the grinder only to give us the perfect ending later on. She did that with Wheels Up and it left me surprised and satisfied in the end. In my opinion, she missed it in Squared Away, but she's allowed a strike. She brought it back in Tight Quarters, though, and I hope she grabs a hold of it and presents it to us again in the next books. Book #7 is going to be Rooster's story and I'm curious who he's going to be paired up with. He's a self-confident and laid back guy, that's for sure, so his story ought to be interesting.
That reminds me of another reason I like this series so much: the characters know each other and there is some loose connection from one story to another, but it's not an unrealistic world filled with gay couples who found their HEA during a previous story. It's what happens after a few books in most series and it's just not realistic. How possible is it that every member of a random SEAL team is gay or bi or anything else that makes them involved with another guy? I don't think the odds are good of that happening, so I like that it doesn't in these books either. Not every character we meet is a future MC, some are just there to provide a social circle and add to the realstic aspect of the plot; nothing more and nothing less than that. All the main characters are connected somehow (either relatives, friends, teammates, casual acquaintances) and some make appearances, but as the number of books rises old characters don't suffocate the plot. They complement it and are there in the periphery to support the MCs of each book.
I liked that during the mission, when Spencer was embeded, there were no heroics and there was no disobedience of orders. They stuck to what they were told to do and it was pretty amazing to read a story so believable instead of the usual plot where the MC always becomes the hero and there are never any consequences. So, congratulations to the author for sticking to a realistic approach and bringing us a story so close to what I imagine the real thing would be like. It's just one more reason why I love this series so much. Annabeth Albert's research and dedication to stick as close to reality as possible is refreshing and makes me always come back to this series.
You want to know what made me like this story even more? It made me want to read Wheels Up, one of my top 2 favorite books in the Out of Uniform series, all over again! (I advise you to skip the rest of the paragraph if you haven't read "Wheels Up" yet.) Lowe and Dustin are still going strong and living happily in DC, working together in private security, as they had planned. There are mentions of events that happened in their book and it brought back all the reasons I fell in love with those two characters in the first place, and I know that's technically about another book, but their mention made me like this one even more than I would have otherwise.
So, in case it hasn't been clear: 5 stars for another great addition to this series. I hope there are many more books to come!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
May 21, 2018
Sorry Ben and Maddox but I'm afraid top spot in my favourite Out of Uniform couple's contest has just been taken over by Bacon and Spencer.
Wes and Dustin had tried but you guys had beat them off until now because this story is perfection.
It has every thing in it that has become a hallmark of this military series; accuracy, honesty, two MCs who are each brilliantly drawn and brought to life, and a romance which digs deep into what makes us human - the power of love.
As a former journalist whose spent time on military training exercises, I have to commend Annabeth for the real sense of time and place.
I might not have been roaming round an island atoll with Navy SEALs but I've been out in the field waiting for something to happen with an adrenaline rush which is something else.
Both Bacon's experiences as a sniper and Spencer's commitment to his journalistic integrity were very real and expertly portrayed. The UST between them was palpable, it bounced off the page in their every conversation.
I loved how they talked too, it was more than just physical, this was the safe harbour in a storm, the warm fire on a snowy night, each man needed to both give support and take help from the other.
As ever, the setting and the secondary characters help bring everything to life. We get to catch up with Wizard and Isaiah, get a passing glimpse of Maddox, and see Wes and Dustin living their HEA in Washington DC.
Perhaps the thing which stuck with me the most in the whole book though - and I admit it's personal because of my former career - are the words Spencer's former editor and mentor Oscar leaves behind in his memoirs.
I won't reveal them, they bring a particular poignancy to the narrative at the point where they arrive which I don't want to spoil, but it served to reinforce for me the decision I made to leave the career after nearly 20 years was the right one.
Everything about this book just comes together at the right time and with the right words to make it a truly special read.
#ARC kindly received from the publishers NetGalley in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Wes and Dustin had tried but you guys had beat them off until now because this story is perfection.
It has every thing in it that has become a hallmark of this military series; accuracy, honesty, two MCs who are each brilliantly drawn and brought to life, and a romance which digs deep into what makes us human - the power of love.
As a former journalist whose spent time on military training exercises, I have to commend Annabeth for the real sense of time and place.
I might not have been roaming round an island atoll with Navy SEALs but I've been out in the field waiting for something to happen with an adrenaline rush which is something else.
Both Bacon's experiences as a sniper and Spencer's commitment to his journalistic integrity were very real and expertly portrayed. The UST between them was palpable, it bounced off the page in their every conversation.
I loved how they talked too, it was more than just physical, this was the safe harbour in a storm, the warm fire on a snowy night, each man needed to both give support and take help from the other.
As ever, the setting and the secondary characters help bring everything to life. We get to catch up with Wizard and Isaiah, get a passing glimpse of Maddox, and see Wes and Dustin living their HEA in Washington DC.
Perhaps the thing which stuck with me the most in the whole book though - and I admit it's personal because of my former career - are the words Spencer's former editor and mentor Oscar leaves behind in his memoirs.
I won't reveal them, they bring a particular poignancy to the narrative at the point where they arrive which I don't want to spoil, but it served to reinforce for me the decision I made to leave the career after nearly 20 years was the right one.
Everything about this book just comes together at the right time and with the right words to make it a truly special read.
#ARC kindly received from the publishers NetGalley in return for an honest and unbiased review.
July 17, 2018
Tight Quarters by Annabeth Albert is an excellent addition to the Out of Uniform Series.
-Age gap
-Hurt/Comfort/Healing
-Navy SEAL falls for a reporter looking to write a story about the military
-Scorching hot chemistry
-Action but not so much of it overtakes the romance part of the story.
-Communication. No childish miscommunication here. These guys care and respect each other.
-Strong relationship development.
-The end was sweet and believable.
Books like this further cement why Annabeth Albert is a go-to for me.
5 Stars
-Age gap
-Hurt/Comfort/Healing
-Navy SEAL falls for a reporter looking to write a story about the military
-Scorching hot chemistry
-Action but not so much of it overtakes the romance part of the story.
-Communication. No childish miscommunication here. These guys care and respect each other.
-Strong relationship development.
-The end was sweet and believable.
Books like this further cement why Annabeth Albert is a go-to for me.
5 Stars
![Profile Image for Kati *☆･ﾟ [a bit distracted atm].](https://cdn.statically.io/img/i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1725834613i/144158876._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
April 7, 2023
4.25**** stars
Enjoyed this one very much and ofc Greg B. made it even better.
And why are all the covers so damn hot?! 🫠
*************
Out of Uniform Series:
Book 3 - On Point - 3.75 stars
Book 4 - Wheels up - 4.75 stars
Book 6 - Tight Quarters - 4.25 stars
Enjoyed this one very much and ofc Greg B. made it even better.
And why are all the covers so damn hot?! 🫠
*************
Out of Uniform Series:
Book 3 - On Point - 3.75 stars
Book 4 - Wheels up - 4.75 stars
Book 6 - Tight Quarters - 4.25 stars
October 11, 2020
Once again, Annabeth Albert delivers a wonderful addition to her OUT OF UNIFORM series–with everyone’s favorite sniper, Bacon, and a journalist who is embedded with Bacon’s SEAL team.
As with all the other books in this series, TIGHT QUARTERS was a delight to read. The characters continue to be amazingly dynamic and full of unforeseen depth. Bacon, as I mentioned, has been a favorite, and I was super excited to learn this book was about him. From his first appearance, I loved him and the way he supported his brothers in arms. He’s such a good guy, willing to help out however he can, and I’ve been eager to see him finally get his happy ending and someone who can help take care of him in the way he cares for others. And with this book, he finally finds that in Spencer Bryant, a journalist 20 years his senior, who’s been embedded with the SEAL in order to do in depth research for a story.
I enjoyed the fact that there was a bit of enemies to lovers happening with Bacon and Spencer, even as they were attracted to each other from the first. It was so interesting to watch their relationship progress from journalist and Navy liaison to friends and lovers who’re secure in just how much they need and rely on each other. The progression of their relationship was so fun and sweet and tender, and the breakup scene was almost as crushing for me as it was for them. I couldn’t stop reading, waiting for them to finally achieve their happy ending, and the way they get there is just perfect.
In addition to the characters and overall plot, I was also a fan of the pansexual rep we find on page here through Bacon. We learn that he’s pan in the previous book (SQUARED AWAY), so I was curious about how Albert was going to portray it, and I think she did a good job. Bacon was just pan–forthcoming with using the term and correcting anyone who mislabeled him–and there was none of the weird “validation” involving past sexual partners that books with bisexual and/or pansexual character tend to feature. He talks about having past partners, and talks about his teenage enbyfriend Jamie, whose story is relevant to how it’s affected Bacon’s life, without using them as part of Bacon’s “pan cred,” but that’s it. As I said, he’s just allowed to be and exist as pansexual, which I loved.
Also, as always, I loved seeing familiar faces from the previous books in the series, as well as meeting new character, such as Rooster (who’s one of the heroes of the next book!).
I look forward to more from this series, and Annabeth Albert in general, in the months and years to come!
As with all the other books in this series, TIGHT QUARTERS was a delight to read. The characters continue to be amazingly dynamic and full of unforeseen depth. Bacon, as I mentioned, has been a favorite, and I was super excited to learn this book was about him. From his first appearance, I loved him and the way he supported his brothers in arms. He’s such a good guy, willing to help out however he can, and I’ve been eager to see him finally get his happy ending and someone who can help take care of him in the way he cares for others. And with this book, he finally finds that in Spencer Bryant, a journalist 20 years his senior, who’s been embedded with the SEAL in order to do in depth research for a story.
I enjoyed the fact that there was a bit of enemies to lovers happening with Bacon and Spencer, even as they were attracted to each other from the first. It was so interesting to watch their relationship progress from journalist and Navy liaison to friends and lovers who’re secure in just how much they need and rely on each other. The progression of their relationship was so fun and sweet and tender, and the breakup scene was almost as crushing for me as it was for them. I couldn’t stop reading, waiting for them to finally achieve their happy ending, and the way they get there is just perfect.
In addition to the characters and overall plot, I was also a fan of the pansexual rep we find on page here through Bacon. We learn that he’s pan in the previous book (SQUARED AWAY), so I was curious about how Albert was going to portray it, and I think she did a good job. Bacon was just pan–forthcoming with using the term and correcting anyone who mislabeled him–and there was none of the weird “validation” involving past sexual partners that books with bisexual and/or pansexual character tend to feature. He talks about having past partners, and talks about his teenage enbyfriend Jamie, whose story is relevant to how it’s affected Bacon’s life, without using them as part of Bacon’s “pan cred,” but that’s it. As I said, he’s just allowed to be and exist as pansexual, which I loved.
Also, as always, I loved seeing familiar faces from the previous books in the series, as well as meeting new character, such as Rooster (who’s one of the heroes of the next book!).
I look forward to more from this series, and Annabeth Albert in general, in the months and years to come!
November 10, 2018
Audio - 5 stars
Story - 4.5 stars
Story - 4.5 stars
July 14, 2018
Told from Navy SEAL and sharpshooter, Petty Officer Bacon, and silver fox, award-winning journalist, Spencer Bryant's, POVs Tight Quarters is hands down my favorite story in the Out of Uniform series.
I loved the way their relationship progressed, I loved their chemistry, I loved their age gap didn't affect their relationship at all, I even loved the little bit of angst that got worked through dealing with Spencer's job possibly impacting Bacon's future in the Navy.
There's some action, plenty of passion, and it's all brilliantly narrated by Greg Tremblay under his sexier Greg Boudreaux brand. He brought me to absolute tears, fat, gasping tears, at one point - and if that isn't the sign of great writing and a great performance, well, I don't know what is.
This was a fantastic listen. I loved the audio and absolutely recommend it.
P.S.: I hope Rooster gets his happy ending next.
**~~**~~**~~**~~**~~**
I'm putting a pin in this at 6%.
The copy I received from NetGalley is unfortunately, formatting-wise, unreadable, and trying to do so is giving me a migraine.
I will purchase the book (probably the audio) when it comes out and enjoy it then.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Tight Quarters (Out of Uniform #6) provided by Carina Press via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
April 4, 2023
Yay!!! 👏👏👏👏 I liked this book SO MUCH BETTER than the last book in the series!!
Why?
Mainly, because this book had action. Military SEAL action. No kids, no babysitters, no nothing other than a journalist embedded with a team. A team training and carrying out its mission. Ensuing problems with journalist and mission. Attraction. Ethics. And most of all, love.
What trumps everything when you come down to it? Is leaving a legacy more important than fully living your life? Living your life for yourself?
This was what the book tackled and did it in a competent way. Was it perfect? No. We’re there things that I didn’t like? Yes (Spencer and his book first mentality; richer UST—I wanted to lick the want off the floor, BUT that’s not what I got). Still this was a solid 4 star read with a very solid HEA with a hunky silver fox and a braver than hell SEAL.
ONE OF MY FAVORITES IN THE SERIES 😉!
Why?
Mainly, because this book had action. Military SEAL action. No kids, no babysitters, no nothing other than a journalist embedded with a team. A team training and carrying out its mission. Ensuing problems with journalist and mission. Attraction. Ethics. And most of all, love.
What trumps everything when you come down to it? Is leaving a legacy more important than fully living your life? Living your life for yourself?
This was what the book tackled and did it in a competent way. Was it perfect? No. We’re there things that I didn’t like? Yes (Spencer and his book first mentality; richer UST—I wanted to lick the want off the floor, BUT that’s not what I got). Still this was a solid 4 star read with a very solid HEA with a hunky silver fox and a braver than hell SEAL.
ONE OF MY FAVORITES IN THE SERIES 😉!
November 11, 2020
I liked this. Greg Boudreaux does his usual great job delivering this installment of Annabeth Albert's series about San Diego/Coronado Navy SEALS.
This time around we have Petty Officer Bacon, whom we've met in prior books, and Spencer Bryant, renowned journalist and smoking hot silver fox.
Bacon became a SEAL to escape small town bigotry and hate. He's found a home with his brothers but he also struggles with their casual gay slurs as he identifies as PAN.
Spencer's hopes of becoming a dancer were dashed by injury but he's forged a successful journalist, one who writes books and appears on NPR. His latest assignment is to be embedded with a SEAL Team. His handler? Bacon, of course.
This was a relatively angst free story between two men who despite their outward differences are smart enough, patient enough, to get to know each other beyond the surface and guess what? They have more in common than not. That and mad attraction for one another, smoking sexual compatibility and we're in romance heaven.
I loved the relationship dynamics, how Bacon is the one to push for it in spite of being the SEAL, how Spencer gets to take care of Bacon, and how they just fit.
This time around we have Petty Officer Bacon, whom we've met in prior books, and Spencer Bryant, renowned journalist and smoking hot silver fox.
Bacon became a SEAL to escape small town bigotry and hate. He's found a home with his brothers but he also struggles with their casual gay slurs as he identifies as PAN.
Spencer's hopes of becoming a dancer were dashed by injury but he's forged a successful journalist, one who writes books and appears on NPR. His latest assignment is to be embedded with a SEAL Team. His handler? Bacon, of course.
This was a relatively angst free story between two men who despite their outward differences are smart enough, patient enough, to get to know each other beyond the surface and guess what? They have more in common than not. That and mad attraction for one another, smoking sexual compatibility and we're in romance heaven.
I loved the relationship dynamics, how Bacon is the one to push for it in spite of being the SEAL, how Spencer gets to take care of Bacon, and how they just fit.
July 15, 2018
This is another Out of Uniform that is kind of middle of the road for me. To mix up my reasoning, though, this time I felt the plot/conflict was the least interesting, whereas I actually bought the relationship conflict. I'll admit to loving Bacon more than Spencer (even though I loved the people that made up his life a lot, whereas I found the introduction of Bacon's mum as a character kind of pointless) but I enjoyed the dynamic of their relationship quite a bit, which is where the last few reads in this series failed for me. So, definitely happy about that!
Keen to see where Albert goes for book seven. Still lots to love from this series even if they aren't all blowing me away.
Keen to see where Albert goes for book seven. Still lots to love from this series even if they aren't all blowing me away.
July 19, 2018
I am surprised to say that the final quarter of the story really did it for me.
I absolutely loved Spencer's first glimpse into his mentor's memoirs and learning that even a hardened journalist with a world renowned career under his belt eventually looks back on his life as being the man who loved his partners (through the decades).
This moved me so deeply, that I even forgave Spencer and Bacon's silly quarrel about a book that broke them apart.
Of course, reuniting at the end was a given and would have tasted a bit stale for me, but knowing that Spencer learned his lesson sweetened the deal for me considerably.
Bacon (who I noticed positively in the previous novels as a supportive friend) turned out to be very different to what I expected, but I liked him a lot. I didn't see the purpose of having him identify as pansexual other than ticking off every possible sexual orientation and gender identity with this series, but if you put that aside, this story is a decent gay romance about an openly gay silver fox journalist (good luck trying to get Anderson Cooper out of your heads now) being assigned to accompany a SEALs team on a dangerous mission.
Team member Bacon is the guy's main contact during the mission and both guys have the hots for each other.
It is actually that straightforward. However, Spencer being an upper class snob and workaholic who doesn't do relationships is the main obstacle to their happy ending.
But as always, things work out and they sail into their forever together.
It's not my favorite in the series, but I definitely liked it much better than the previous one.
4 stars!
I absolutely loved Spencer's first glimpse into his mentor's memoirs and learning that even a hardened journalist with a world renowned career under his belt eventually looks back on his life as being the man who loved his partners (through the decades).
This moved me so deeply, that I even forgave Spencer and Bacon's silly quarrel about a book that broke them apart.
Of course, reuniting at the end was a given and would have tasted a bit stale for me, but knowing that Spencer learned his lesson sweetened the deal for me considerably.
Bacon (who I noticed positively in the previous novels as a supportive friend) turned out to be very different to what I expected, but I liked him a lot. I didn't see the purpose of having him identify as pansexual other than ticking off every possible sexual orientation and gender identity with this series, but if you put that aside, this story is a decent gay romance about an openly gay silver fox journalist (good luck trying to get Anderson Cooper out of your heads now) being assigned to accompany a SEALs team on a dangerous mission.
Team member Bacon is the guy's main contact during the mission and both guys have the hots for each other.
It is actually that straightforward. However, Spencer being an upper class snob and workaholic who doesn't do relationships is the main obstacle to their happy ending.
But as always, things work out and they sail into their forever together.
It's not my favorite in the series, but I definitely liked it much better than the previous one.
4 stars!
June 30, 2024
Review from 2018
I've given this an A+ (duh!) for narration and an A for content at AudioGals
Annabeth Albert’s Out of Uniform series has been a consistently enjoyable one in both print and audio, despite the odd blip. Tight Quarters is the sixth instalment, and I was glued to it from start to finish, zipping through it in two or three sittings. Yeah, yeah, I know – I’d listen to Greg Boudreaux read his shopping list, but fortunately, Annabeth Albert has provided him with something MUCH sexier and emotionally satisfying (although I don’t know – maybe his shopping lists are sexy and emotionally satisfying?) to get stuck into, in this tale of a journalist who embeds with a team of Navy SEALs looking for a story and finds something he really hadn’t bargained for.
We met Petty Officer Bacon in the previous book in the series, Squared Away, and at the beginning of his one, he’s more than a little bit pissed off because the finger he dislocated on a training exercise has him sidelined and unable to take his regular place on Team Alpha. His annoyance is further compounded when he is directed to be the liaison officer for a reporter who is going to embed with Bacon’s unit during their next mission. The team’s recent shake up following the departure of its XO (executive officer) and explosives expert (Wes and Dustin from Wheels Up) coupled with the rumours that the pair are now an item and began their relationship while working together despite the strict non-fraternization policy, make Bacon – a friend of both men – very hostile to the idea of a journalist poking around for a story and he resents being demoted to the role of babysitter. Even worse – the reporter is Spencer Bryant, a heavyweight, multi-award-winning journalist and author who is openly gay… and is one seriously hot silver fox. Under any other circumstances, Bacon would have so gone there – but he’s got to keep Bryant at a distance and away from anything that could potentially embarrass his team or the Navy in general.
Spencer Bryant, who, we learn, trained as a dancer before a knee injury put paid to that career choice, turns out to be all the things Bacon least wants him to be – interesting, compassionate, charming, easy to talk to, and utterly gorgeous. Spencer plans to follow up his book about injured veterans with one about how modern warfare operates in the field, but there’s more to this project than simple curiosity. While researching his last book, Spencer became friends with one of his interviewees, who subsequently committed suicide. “They don’t see us, No one cares,” he’d said in his final text to Spencer – who has been determined ever since to find a way to honour the man’s memory and raise awareness of the plight faced by others like him. Maybe by showing the workings of a special ops team, he can help people to truly value veterans in need of assistance; and after months of back-and-forth, form filling and screening by Navy PR, he’s finally about to make a start on the project.
After a couple of days, the team is deployed, and on the long flight to their island base, Spencer and Bacon – who has, until now, been very guarded – begin to really talk to one another. Spencer tells Bacon about his injury and change of career; Bacon tells him a little about how his no-good father’s constant belittling of him made him even more determined to succeed and become a SEAL. There’s an undercurrent of attraction running between them, but it’s not overdone; Spencer, who is divorced, thinks that perhaps he’s not cut out for relationships because his career is so important to him, while Bacon is certainly not going to risk the career he loves for a meaningless fling. Their slow getting-to-know-you phase is extremely well done, and Ms. Albert really ups the ante when the operation they’re on goes south in a spectacularly bad way and Bacon and Spencer are forced to rely on each other and work together to keep out of the sights of the bad guys while they wait for extraction.
The failed operation marks the end of Spencer’s time with the unit, which, while it means a change in his plans for the book, has the advantage of meaning that perhaps he and Bacon can explore the attraction that’s sparked between them since they first set eyes on each other. The pair get together whenever they can over the next few months; to burn up the sheets, yes, but for far more than that, too. There’s tenderness, laughter, caring and genuine affection between them as well as scorching chemistry; their relationship is incredibly well-developed into something genuine and so, so strong. Between visits, they exchange emails, and given I’m a complete sucker for stories in which correspondence plays a part, I loved their exchanges, which so clearly show the depth of their feelings for one another. Both characters are real and relatable which makes it supremely easy to buy into their romance being about much, much more than sex.
There’s a fair bit of angst in the story, too, but none of it is over-the-top or manufactured. Bacon’s is a tough job, both physically and mentally, and there’s one incredibly moving scene (brilliantly realised by Mr. Boudreaux) – in which we get to see just what a toll it takes – that moved me to tears. And there’s one conflict that has been inevitable from the beginning; Spencer is determined to write a book about how the military is failing in its duty of care and he knows Bacon won’t be okay with it. He’s convinced it’s a story that must be told, even though he’s known right from the start of their relationship that he can’t tell it and have Bacon in his life. Ms. Albert makes them work for their HEA, which makes it that much more satisfying in the end.
I can’t think of a single, tiny thing about Greg Boudreaux’s performance here that doesn’t work, and given this book has a fairly large number of secondary speaking roles (at least a dozen) who are all men – that’s saying something. Each character is clearly differentiated so there’s never any question that there are a number of different people speaking in any given “crowd” scene (I might not have remembered all their names but that’s down to my memory rather than anything else!) and I have to make special mention of the crisp, English accent Mr. Boudreaux uses to portray Spencer’s mentor, Oscar, which perfectly conjures up the image of a dapper, wryly humorous elderly English gentleman. Flawless interpretations of the principals, together with an unerring sense of where the emotional heart of each scene lies round out this fabulous narration. Both personalities shine through clearly – Spencer is assured, charismatic and intuitive; Bacon, in spite of his relative youth (there’s a fifteen-year age gap) is equally assured and fiercely dedicated to his job and those he cares about.
A moving, gorgeously romantic tale, Tight Quarters is easily one of the best books in the Out of Uniform series, and Spencer and Bacon have become one of my favourite romantic couples. The story is perfectly paced, the romance is beautifully developed, and the narration is – as one would expect from this performer – absolutely top-notch. Audiobooks honestly don’t get much better than this.
I've given this an A+ (duh!) for narration and an A for content at AudioGals
Annabeth Albert’s Out of Uniform series has been a consistently enjoyable one in both print and audio, despite the odd blip. Tight Quarters is the sixth instalment, and I was glued to it from start to finish, zipping through it in two or three sittings. Yeah, yeah, I know – I’d listen to Greg Boudreaux read his shopping list, but fortunately, Annabeth Albert has provided him with something MUCH sexier and emotionally satisfying (although I don’t know – maybe his shopping lists are sexy and emotionally satisfying?) to get stuck into, in this tale of a journalist who embeds with a team of Navy SEALs looking for a story and finds something he really hadn’t bargained for.
We met Petty Officer Bacon in the previous book in the series, Squared Away, and at the beginning of his one, he’s more than a little bit pissed off because the finger he dislocated on a training exercise has him sidelined and unable to take his regular place on Team Alpha. His annoyance is further compounded when he is directed to be the liaison officer for a reporter who is going to embed with Bacon’s unit during their next mission. The team’s recent shake up following the departure of its XO (executive officer) and explosives expert (Wes and Dustin from Wheels Up) coupled with the rumours that the pair are now an item and began their relationship while working together despite the strict non-fraternization policy, make Bacon – a friend of both men – very hostile to the idea of a journalist poking around for a story and he resents being demoted to the role of babysitter. Even worse – the reporter is Spencer Bryant, a heavyweight, multi-award-winning journalist and author who is openly gay… and is one seriously hot silver fox. Under any other circumstances, Bacon would have so gone there – but he’s got to keep Bryant at a distance and away from anything that could potentially embarrass his team or the Navy in general.
Spencer Bryant, who, we learn, trained as a dancer before a knee injury put paid to that career choice, turns out to be all the things Bacon least wants him to be – interesting, compassionate, charming, easy to talk to, and utterly gorgeous. Spencer plans to follow up his book about injured veterans with one about how modern warfare operates in the field, but there’s more to this project than simple curiosity. While researching his last book, Spencer became friends with one of his interviewees, who subsequently committed suicide. “They don’t see us, No one cares,” he’d said in his final text to Spencer – who has been determined ever since to find a way to honour the man’s memory and raise awareness of the plight faced by others like him. Maybe by showing the workings of a special ops team, he can help people to truly value veterans in need of assistance; and after months of back-and-forth, form filling and screening by Navy PR, he’s finally about to make a start on the project.
After a couple of days, the team is deployed, and on the long flight to their island base, Spencer and Bacon – who has, until now, been very guarded – begin to really talk to one another. Spencer tells Bacon about his injury and change of career; Bacon tells him a little about how his no-good father’s constant belittling of him made him even more determined to succeed and become a SEAL. There’s an undercurrent of attraction running between them, but it’s not overdone; Spencer, who is divorced, thinks that perhaps he’s not cut out for relationships because his career is so important to him, while Bacon is certainly not going to risk the career he loves for a meaningless fling. Their slow getting-to-know-you phase is extremely well done, and Ms. Albert really ups the ante when the operation they’re on goes south in a spectacularly bad way and Bacon and Spencer are forced to rely on each other and work together to keep out of the sights of the bad guys while they wait for extraction.
The failed operation marks the end of Spencer’s time with the unit, which, while it means a change in his plans for the book, has the advantage of meaning that perhaps he and Bacon can explore the attraction that’s sparked between them since they first set eyes on each other. The pair get together whenever they can over the next few months; to burn up the sheets, yes, but for far more than that, too. There’s tenderness, laughter, caring and genuine affection between them as well as scorching chemistry; their relationship is incredibly well-developed into something genuine and so, so strong. Between visits, they exchange emails, and given I’m a complete sucker for stories in which correspondence plays a part, I loved their exchanges, which so clearly show the depth of their feelings for one another. Both characters are real and relatable which makes it supremely easy to buy into their romance being about much, much more than sex.
There’s a fair bit of angst in the story, too, but none of it is over-the-top or manufactured. Bacon’s is a tough job, both physically and mentally, and there’s one incredibly moving scene (brilliantly realised by Mr. Boudreaux) – in which we get to see just what a toll it takes – that moved me to tears. And there’s one conflict that has been inevitable from the beginning; Spencer is determined to write a book about how the military is failing in its duty of care and he knows Bacon won’t be okay with it. He’s convinced it’s a story that must be told, even though he’s known right from the start of their relationship that he can’t tell it and have Bacon in his life. Ms. Albert makes them work for their HEA, which makes it that much more satisfying in the end.
I can’t think of a single, tiny thing about Greg Boudreaux’s performance here that doesn’t work, and given this book has a fairly large number of secondary speaking roles (at least a dozen) who are all men – that’s saying something. Each character is clearly differentiated so there’s never any question that there are a number of different people speaking in any given “crowd” scene (I might not have remembered all their names but that’s down to my memory rather than anything else!) and I have to make special mention of the crisp, English accent Mr. Boudreaux uses to portray Spencer’s mentor, Oscar, which perfectly conjures up the image of a dapper, wryly humorous elderly English gentleman. Flawless interpretations of the principals, together with an unerring sense of where the emotional heart of each scene lies round out this fabulous narration. Both personalities shine through clearly – Spencer is assured, charismatic and intuitive; Bacon, in spite of his relative youth (there’s a fifteen-year age gap) is equally assured and fiercely dedicated to his job and those he cares about.
A moving, gorgeously romantic tale, Tight Quarters is easily one of the best books in the Out of Uniform series, and Spencer and Bacon have become one of my favourite romantic couples. The story is perfectly paced, the romance is beautifully developed, and the narration is – as one would expect from this performer – absolutely top-notch. Audiobooks honestly don’t get much better than this.
May 14, 2024
Perfect! Mi favorito y Greg B en el audio 🤌🏼
July 8, 2018
I've really liked all of the other books in this series except for book two with whiny, snively, Eeyore (otherwise known as Apollo). I think though that this one just jumped in to my most disliked of the series.
I was annoyed straight out of the gate with the constant talk at the beginning about Spencer being "old" and "aging". FFS he was 43 not 73! Then after about 20% the age difference was never mentioned again and never discussed as an issue in their relationship. Which is fine that it was not an issue but gah, why did we have to hear about it endlessly then?
I didn't like Spencer. I never warmed up to him at all. I thought he was a selfish ass and even when he tries to make things right after hurting Bacon I wasn't feeling it. It was all about how sad he was and how he couldn't write or sleep. It took him until the last few pages of the book to look at how his actions made Bacon feel. He even jacks up the epilogue with the worst I legit wanted them to break up and for Bacon to find someone else. (Bacon was awesome......as bacon usually is)
The book just drug for me. One of those where you keep looking at the percentage mark hoping it's almost over and then being all bummed cuz you're only at 65%. I skimmed all of the sex scenes from 75% on cuz I just wanted to be done.
Even the appearances of two previous couples (ones I loved) couldn't save this for me. If I was rating this on enjoyment I would rate this a 2 star. Since it was written well and it's AA who usually doesn't let me down, I'm going with a 3 star. Let it be written in the stars though that I actually dislike Spencer more than Apollo which is saying a lot.
**ARC provided by publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
I was annoyed straight out of the gate with the constant talk at the beginning about Spencer being "old" and "aging". FFS he was 43 not 73! Then after about 20% the age difference was never mentioned again and never discussed as an issue in their relationship. Which is fine that it was not an issue but gah, why did we have to hear about it endlessly then?
I didn't like Spencer. I never warmed up to him at all. I thought he was a selfish ass and even when he tries to make things right after hurting Bacon I wasn't feeling it. It was all about how sad he was and how he couldn't write or sleep. It took him until the last few pages of the book to look at how his actions made Bacon feel. He even jacks up the epilogue with the worst I legit wanted them to break up and for Bacon to find someone else. (Bacon was awesome......as bacon usually is)
The book just drug for me. One of those where you keep looking at the percentage mark hoping it's almost over and then being all bummed cuz you're only at 65%. I skimmed all of the sex scenes from 75% on cuz I just wanted to be done.
Even the appearances of two previous couples (ones I loved) couldn't save this for me. If I was rating this on enjoyment I would rate this a 2 star. Since it was written well and it's AA who usually doesn't let me down, I'm going with a 3 star. Let it be written in the stars though that I actually dislike Spencer more than Apollo which is saying a lot.
**ARC provided by publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
November 10, 2020
4.5 stars
I loved this one! I really liked both MCs, and I am such a big fan of age gap stories.
This is Bacon’s story, a sniper who is mildly injured and tasked to take care of the reporter embedded in the team. Spencer is the silver fox reporter who is there to write a story. Bacon doesn’t trust him and is pissed that he is not on the front line. The attraction is there from the start, but they don’t like each other much at first.
After they go through a rough mission together, they start hooking up. But Bacon is not out, and Spencer still wants to write his story. I love how the drama/angst didn’t feel made up, but came from their situation. I really liked the resolution and how there was grovelling and not instant forgiveness.
The sex was super hot, and they were really cute and fun together. I liked that we got to catch up with some of the previous couples.
There is a lot of talk about suicide, but nothing on page, just talk of past losses on both sides.
I loved this one! I really liked both MCs, and I am such a big fan of age gap stories.
This is Bacon’s story, a sniper who is mildly injured and tasked to take care of the reporter embedded in the team. Spencer is the silver fox reporter who is there to write a story. Bacon doesn’t trust him and is pissed that he is not on the front line. The attraction is there from the start, but they don’t like each other much at first.
After they go through a rough mission together, they start hooking up. But Bacon is not out, and Spencer still wants to write his story. I love how the drama/angst didn’t feel made up, but came from their situation. I really liked the resolution and how there was grovelling and not instant forgiveness.
The sex was super hot, and they were really cute and fun together. I liked that we got to catch up with some of the previous couples.
There is a lot of talk about suicide, but nothing on page, just talk of past losses on both sides.
April 23, 2018
4 stars.
Tight Quarters is the sixth book in the Out of Uniform series and they all feature a different couple but can be read as a standalone.
I've read and enjoyed all of them and I don't know how Annabeth does it but she keeps the books interesting for me to keep coming back.
Full review to come closer to release date.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Tight Quarters is the sixth book in the Out of Uniform series and they all feature a different couple but can be read as a standalone.
I've read and enjoyed all of them and I don't know how Annabeth does it but she keeps the books interesting for me to keep coming back.
Full review to come closer to release date.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2018
I’m gonna be short...
A strong story, very well developed characters and journey. A lot of feelings all over the floor.
I felt their strong attraction, longing and connection and when it all went down the hurt was ugly.
Another great story in this series.
Kindly received an arc from the publisher
A strong story, very well developed characters and journey. A lot of feelings all over the floor.
I felt their strong attraction, longing and connection and when it all went down the hurt was ugly.
Another great story in this series.
Kindly received an arc from the publisher
October 9, 2022
3.5⭐️
Very cute
Very cute
Shelved as 'dnf'
December 29, 2022DNF. No rating.
By 65% everything mentioned in the blurb has already happened and now the MCs are just sort of...hanging out? What is this book even about anymore?? Pass.
By 65% everything mentioned in the blurb has already happened and now the MCs are just sort of...hanging out? What is this book even about anymore?? Pass.
August 7, 2018
**** Another bright and sexy story from Annabeth Albert in her military series.
Bacon/Del, a big hunky SEAL sniper
is pansexual, but not out.
After being injured, he's assigned to the embedded journalist, the famous Spencer Bryant, a smart, savvy, silver fox.
Several things are happening, and Spencer is tagging along on practice maneuvers for the teams next mission.
When there's trouble, Bacon saves Spencer's life as they run for it through the jungle terrain. Bacon gets injured, but two other team members, are critical. We get action packed scenes, gun fire, rescue and the aftermath.
Spencer is then removed from the team, and the men, Bacon and Spencer, are more engaged in each other, with hot sexy times, and more deep emotion than either man has ever felt. They balance each other beautifully.
Our author gives us yet another pair of needy men who find their "one." This is an important book of silent relationships, getting to be set free and open. Difficult decisions are needed, with intense feelings involved, and life changing moments.
We get a wonderful epilogue, and as always, I look forward to more.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
====
Bacon/Del, a big hunky SEAL sniper
is pansexual, but not out.
After being injured, he's assigned to the embedded journalist, the famous Spencer Bryant, a smart, savvy, silver fox.
Several things are happening, and Spencer is tagging along on practice maneuvers for the teams next mission.
When there's trouble, Bacon saves Spencer's life as they run for it through the jungle terrain. Bacon gets injured, but two other team members, are critical. We get action packed scenes, gun fire, rescue and the aftermath.
Spencer is then removed from the team, and the men, Bacon and Spencer, are more engaged in each other, with hot sexy times, and more deep emotion than either man has ever felt. They balance each other beautifully.
Our author gives us yet another pair of needy men who find their "one." This is an important book of silent relationships, getting to be set free and open. Difficult decisions are needed, with intense feelings involved, and life changing moments.
We get a wonderful epilogue, and as always, I look forward to more.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
====
July 7, 2018
Playful, sexy, and full of genuine emotion!
Tight Quarters is a gritty, sensual, military romance featuring the reliable, confident, skilled Petty Officer Bacon and the mature, principled, successful Spencer Bryant as they learn firsthand the power of attraction and discover a sense of purpose, passion, and fulfillment beyond their careers.
The writing is ardent and fluid. The characters are hot-blooded, tenacious, and supportive. And the alluring plot is a perfect mix of slowing burning seduction, suspense, danger, action, adventure, palpable chemistry, SEAL team dynamics, journalistic integrity, and unconditional love.
Tight Quarters is the sixth novel in the Out of Uniform series, and it’s definitely one of my favourites. I’m not sure how Albert continues to do it, but this series keeps getting better and better and continues to leave me wanting more.
Thank you to Carina Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
Tight Quarters is a gritty, sensual, military romance featuring the reliable, confident, skilled Petty Officer Bacon and the mature, principled, successful Spencer Bryant as they learn firsthand the power of attraction and discover a sense of purpose, passion, and fulfillment beyond their careers.
The writing is ardent and fluid. The characters are hot-blooded, tenacious, and supportive. And the alluring plot is a perfect mix of slowing burning seduction, suspense, danger, action, adventure, palpable chemistry, SEAL team dynamics, journalistic integrity, and unconditional love.
Tight Quarters is the sixth novel in the Out of Uniform series, and it’s definitely one of my favourites. I’m not sure how Albert continues to do it, but this series keeps getting better and better and continues to leave me wanting more.
Thank you to Carina Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
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