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Softpaw (Smilodon Pride) (Volume 1)

Softpaw (Smilodon Pride) (Volume 1) - Osiris Brackhaus, Beryll Brackhaus A free copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars

Michel Dupont goes undercover as a male prostitute in Paris to track down a "Jack the Ripper" copy cat the press has labeled "Jacqueline, the Ripper".

Connor Acothley is a piano player for Chez Chantal, a sort of safe haven for prostitutes. He also participates as tour guide for an guided art tours. He's well like in his portion of town but seems to be the police's main suspect since he knew all the victims. When Michel walks into Chez Chantal, Connor is asked to explain the rules to him. Michel is a very good looking man and he knows it. Connor takes notice of him but doesn't want to take advantage of the guy when he starts flirting. Connor does make an offer to let Michel stay at his home if he needs a place to stay. An offer he makes to all the people working the streets. This is perfect for Michel since he's been tasked with tailing Connor and finding evidence that Connor is involved with the murders in the quarter.

After getting know each other the two can't help but to act on their feelings. Both can see themselves in a long term relationship together. Michel is hopeful their relationship will survive his secret and having to dupe Connor. Even when he starts doubting Connor's innocence he can't help still wanting Connor. Connor himself has his secrets and when he discovers what Michel is he can't help but feel betrayed. Things don't look good but with a murderer running free, their relationship will have to stay on the back burner.

There was a lot of focus on character and relationship building and not much on plot. The case involving Jacqueline was maybe 25% of the book maybe less. I did like getting to know Connor and Michel and seeing them interact. The ending did have me curious about what was planned for Connor and why Michel was used. It was pretty vague and it'll be interesting to see what role Roan will have and how he plays into Judge d’Angers plans in the next book.