Book Reviews

Color You In (EMS Station 1, Book 2) by K. Evan Coles

Genre Bisexual / Gay / Contemporary / Disability / Doctors/Nurses/EMTs/Vets / Romance
Reviewed by Lena Grey on 27-May-2025

Book Blurb

Why are the hot guys always straight?


EMT Gus Dawson is off men, thanks to his jerk of an ex. He’s set his sights on a promotion to paramedic and being the first amputee to hold that title for the city of Boston. Gus doesn’t care that his new rookie partner thinks he’d do the job better. Or that the straight, married dad is all wrong for him.


Madoc Walters never imagined he’d have to restart his career. But he’ll do whatever it takes to make a better life for his daughter, Val. Even if it means playing rookie for a hotshot who’ll get a promotion Madoc deserves more. A guy he can’t stop thinking about no matter how hard he tries.


In spite of the rivalry, the partners strike up a friendship, supporting each other after Gus is injured and Madoc’s ex-wife abandons the family. But when crushes become real emotion and Gus bonds with Val, will Madoc be ready to stop playing it straight?



Color You In is a 98.5K rivals-to-lovers MM romance. In it you’ll meet an ambitious EMT with a crush on his straight, married partner, a cute single-dad who’s gotten used to playing it straight, a curly-haired kid with designs to paint the world with purple sparkles, and the sweet HEA they all deserve.

 

Book Review

“Don't think twice about what this means…It's just a fantasy spinning like rotisserie
When we first caught eyes … You were a canvas standing in front of me. I wanna color you in. I wanna fill up the empty spaces…” ~ Yam Hous ‘Color You In’

 

Gus Dawson, a character from 'Color You In' by K. Evan Coles, was once a top firefighter in Boston. However, a tragic accident that cost him his left foot and part of his leg not only forced him to switch to a new role as an EMT but also affected his self-confidence. His new partner, Madoc Walters, initially presents a challenge. His abrasive and unprofessional attitude perplexes Gus, who is unsure how to handle the situation. Despite this, Gus takes the high road, giving Madoc some leeway. Their first call interrupts any chance to resolve the tension between them.

 

As Gus observes Madoc's skills in action, his perception of his partner profoundly changes. The initial disdain is replaced by a growing respect for Madoc's abilities. However, the issues between the supervisor and the rookie still linger. A serious discussion ensues, during which Madoc assures Gus that his insubordination will not hinder his performance.

 

After resolving their seniority issues, Gus and Madoc form a close bond, sharing intimate details of their lives and families. Madoc reveals that he and his daughter, Val, moved there after her mother, now his ex-wife, lost custody. She and her brother moved to Boston, too, and live in an apartment above. Despite his attraction to Madoc, Gus knows the risks of falling for a straight man. Madoc, who has always thought of himself as straight, is confused about his strong reaction to Gus.

 

One of the most crucial aspects of life is staying true to yourself. If you are not, it's time to act and make a change. Be authentic brings a more meaningful life. Gus embodies that spirit; Madoc had to learn it. Thanks, K. Evan Coles, for a thoughtful tale of two men who overcame many obstacles and, finally, learned to make the best of their lives together.

 

 

 

DISCLAIMER: Books reviewed on this site were usually provided at no cost by the publisher or author. This book was purchased by the reviewer.

 

Additional Information

Format ebook
Length Novel, 372 pages/98500 words
Heat Level
Publication Date 24-February-2025
Price $4.99 ebook
Buy Link https://www.amazon.com/Color-You-EMS-Station-Book-ebook/dp/B0DWM2XXV4