Nicco and his father have never gotten along. Ever since his mother walked out on them when he was four years old, his father has verbally abused Nicco into trying to make him into a man. Regardless of his rough tactics, Nicco has turned out gay and has a true love with Mac, who he has known for almost twenty years. In high school they kept their love a secret, especially when Mac joined the Marines.

Now Mac has another man in his life. When Mac was stationed in Afghanistan, he met Amir, a British soldier. Mac has always felt guilty about his feelings for Amir, but he can’t help but wanting to be with both Nicco and Amir at the same time. Nicco knows about Amir but is afraid that Mac will finally leave him, and he will truly be alone with no one to love or to be loved.

When Nicco’s close friends call for help because they are being targeted against an enemy of theirs, Mac calls in Amir to help. Amir still wants Mac in his life, but knows he may have some work cut out for him because of Nicco. When Mac appeals his situation to Nicco, he is quite surprised because Nicco shocks him and is open to having a three way relationship. Suddenly everything is up for grabs and when Mac is shot and paralyzed, both Nicco and Amir have to decide if they are willing to share Mac along with their hearts for each other.

Carol Lynne takes the topic of homosexuality and pulls it up a notch with not only two men who adore and love each other, but also with a third. I have never read such a story where three men are willing to go against incredible odds in order to be with the ones they love the most, regardless if their love is considered taboo in the eyes of others. Nicco is one of the most heart-wrenching of the three because of his father who is the ultimate bigot. Nicco feels unworthy and doesn’t think he deserves to be with a man like Mac. Mac on the other hand is an extraordinary character who feels that love can heal all wounds. Amir is as wonderful as Mac, in that he is willing to share, and his rewards are endless

Going Against Orders is a very unconventional romance, but the love scenes are moving and very sexy. When Nicco, Mac and Amir come together, finally free and happy, it is something quite amazing to read. I must give Lynne a lot of credit in writing a story of this caliber that shows that true love and friendship doesn’t matter what gender or background that person is.

Reviewed by: Katie