Review of Brick by Brick by Maryn Blackburn

Brick by Brick by Maryn Blackburn

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



I am surprised to admit that I didn’t enjoy Brick by Brick as much as I expected to. That’s not to say that I didn’t enjoy it, but it fell more into the category of a good read than a great read. To be honest, I’m not exactly sure why. It had all of the right elements – solid writing, seriously hot M/M/F ménage scenes, even hotter M/M sexual interactions, and great characters. Ms. Blackburn even threw in a great plot twist that forced Natalie, James and Gage to reexamine their priorities and expectations. See? It has everything, but for some reason it just didn’t break that barrier into great read for me.

James and Natalie have been married for ten years. They have a great marriage and love each completely. Gage is an actor who they meet at a business party and they help him “escape” some fans and agree to go back to their place and enjoy a couple bottles of wine. As the wine flows and inhibitions loosen, James and Natalie find themselves doing what they only fantasized about – having a ménage with another man. It was HOT (and not because they were in front of the fireplace). Gage has to return home the next day for work and one thing leads to another and weeks have passed without the couple hearing from him. Natalie feels like James has withdrawn from her and fears that she is no longer exciting enough for him sexually. When Gage returns unannounced and the trio tries again, the bedroom activities become more intense again – and definitely makes for some great reading. The interactions between James and Gage seem to focus more on the duo, causing Natalie to feel like a third-wheel and worry that she is losing her husband.

While her reactions are completely understandable, Natalie’s constant self-doubt regarding her place in the relationship is likely what made Brick by Brick a good read instead of a great read. As I said, I enjoyed the book. It’s solidly written, the characters are well developed, and the sex scenes are hot – it was just missing that little extra oomph. That said, I will have to add Ms. Blackburn to my watch list as I enjoyed her writing style. If you’re in the mood for a M/M/F ménage, be all means check it out because it is an enjoyable read.

I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Angela at Crystal's Many Reviewers!

Check out the Brick by Brick by Maryn Blackburn blog post on Crystal's Many Reviewers.


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