For me, the characters-especially the main characters-are the driving factor in determining if I like a story or not.  That's one of the reasons I keep coming back to Cardeno C.'s books...I know I'm going to get wonderful characters who are complex and deep, and with distinct personalities.  I'm also going to get characters that are easy to relate to, and that is clearly illustrated here in Not A Game.

No major fall outs, misunderstandings, or life changing decisions, written in a way only CC knows how, and has mastered in a way others should take note. Its not necessary for the characters to fall out and mess up, sometimes, just getting from A to B is story enough, IF IF IF its told well. Told from both men's point of view, we get an insight into them both, which I really LOVE, mostly, because I like to know whats going on, from everyone. 

If you're a fan of shifter books, and can exercise some patience with dear Samuel, I think you'll really enjoy this Cardeno C. novel. I enjoyed this entire series!

Walk With Me was just what I wanted it to be. Sweet, sexy, funny and engaging. ... This isn't really a GFY trope, more a will they/won't they romance because over the years they constantly fight their feelings for each other, whilst settling into a deep friendship that you know one day will have to come to a head because no one can fight true love when its staring them in the face! So that's the basis but like all good stories its how you get there that makes this such an enjoyable book....The connection and chemistry never fails to sizzle and many a time I've got pretty hot under the collar. But this story is really quite different in so much as sex doesn't actually happen until just over half way, because of course the whole idea is based on the long drawn out sexual tension that builds over the years as they dance around each other, and do you know what? I liked that just fine because when the long anticipated inevitable finally happens, OMG! its soooo worth the wait and the love scenes that follow are ultra sexy and high voltage electric.... There were guest appearances from the guys we've grown to love from the other books in the series and the ending was just perfect. Satisfying and truly romantic. If Cardeno had to wrap up this series then this story is a fitting end.

Beans: I really loved the premise of this story and it was beautifully written. Abel is a bit of an ass and Kai is so wounded it breaks your heart. I loved Kai's sister in this and I think Abel needed to grovel for years but Kai has such a forgiving heart and just wants his mate, his friend. ...Highly recommend!Nina: I enjoyed every minute of it. This is a story of both young love and love that endures for a lifetime....These men will steal your heart and have you begging for more. ...If for some reason you haven't already read this delightful little novella, you really must immediately purchase it and immerse yourself in all of the love, sweetness, passion, drama, and beauty that Cardeno C delivers to us once again.