Savage Grace (Murphy Brothers Book 3) by Spencer Spears

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My ex in my bed is a bad idea. But consequences are for when the sun comes up…

Connor: If there’s such a thing as a soul, Julian Jackson owns mine.
But that doesn’t mean I want to see him.

I left Summersea Island 10 years ago, nursing wounds from a past I’d rather forget.
Julian was my first love and my first heart-break.
He saved me when I thought I was beyond saving—then turned his back when I tried to return the favor.

When work takes me back to Summersea unexpectedly, I promise myself I’ll steer clear.
But I don’t even make it a week before I’m on my knees in front of him.
And I don’t last a month before he’s back in my bed.

In high school, we had to hide what we were to each other. And Julian’s still hiding—still convinced he has to face all his demons alone.

No one’s ever told Julian he’s worth fighting for.
But I’ll be damned if I lose him again.

Savage Grace is the 3rd book in the Murphy Brothers series, which follows a family of brothers as they find their sweet, snarky, and steamy happily-ever-afters on small-town Summersea Island. Each book can be read on its own—but why would you do that, when you could read them all together? Savage Grace is a 125,000 word m/m romance with second chance, out-for-you, and hurt/comfort themes. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed HEA.

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Saving Grace, the third book in the Murphy Brothers series, is another tremendous small town romance by Spencer Spears. The author excels at developing the small town feel. And in this small town, there's a continued fight against condos being built versus protecting the land. 

Julian and Connor have a second chance at love when Connor returns home to help the town against the developers. The two are working together on a committee and the tension is ever present, along with anger and resentment. Forgiving Connor for leaving will not be an easy feat for Julian. 

Julian's past is painful. Not only is he scarred from Connor leaving, his father is religious, homophobic, and abusive. Thus, he's always remained in the closet. Every choice Julian has made has centered around his desire to keep his sister safe. 

This is a story with years up built up resentment, pain, and confusion, as well as attraction and want. It's a story with lies, sneaking around, and denial. Overall, it's a story of two men in love put into a no win situation. As much as Connor may still want his ex lover, he knows Julian isn't capable of giving him what he wants. 

There are plenty of problems for these men along the way. In addition to trying to figure themselves out, they have to deal with Julian's homophobic father, a vindictive boss, and an ass of a former classmate. 

As a couple, they are sweet, complimenting one another wonderfully, and bringing out the best in each other. 

Written in alternating 1st person pov, I love the author's writing style. As usual, the author develops a long and detailed story, that never has an extra, unneeded word. He manages to delve into amazing character reflections at times and keeps the reader riveted throughout. 

Saving Grace is a beautiful story with a wonderful ending. Spencer Spears impresses in this complex tale full of heart and character growth. Put some time aside for this amazing romance that explores living for others, always trying to please people, instead of reaching for what you want and living your life for yourself. You won't be disappointed.