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Kingston Brothers #2
Reckless at Westbrook High
Wren
Never feel, never fall.
Four words I tell myself to protect my heart from the pain I know all too well.
I learned my lesson the hard way.
Promised myself I’d never allow anyone to hurt me the way she did.
Now I’m falling and I can’t seem to stop it.
He’s dangerous.
I’m broken.
He fills the missing pieces until all I feel is him.
And I’m the sucker stupid enough to let him do it.
Levi
I’ve always wanted what I can’t have.
Family, freedom, love.. him.
I’ve wanted him for as long as I can remember – the broken bad boy with the sad eyes and the tortured heart – but like everything else in my life, it’s not that easy.
His past will tear us apart.
My lies will break us beyond repair.
This love will send us both to an early grave.
Ask me if I give a damn.
Wren Kingston is mine.
And it’s about time he knows it.
This is a full length, dark high school romance with themes some readers might find offensive. It is book 2 of 3 in the Kingston Brothers series but can be read as an interlinking standalone. PLEASE NOTE: This book is M/M. Books 1 & 3 are M/F.
Never feel, never fall.
Four words I tell myself to protect my heart from the pain I know all too well.
I learned my lesson the hard way.
Promised myself I’d never allow anyone to hurt me the way she did.
Now I’m falling and I can’t seem to stop it.
He’s dangerous.
I’m broken.
He fills the missing pieces until all I feel is him.
And I’m the sucker stupid enough to let him do it.
Levi
I’ve always wanted what I can’t have.
Family, freedom, love.. him.
I’ve wanted him for as long as I can remember – the broken bad boy with the sad eyes and the tortured heart – but like everything else in my life, it’s not that easy.
His past will tear us apart.
My lies will break us beyond repair.
This love will send us both to an early grave.
Ask me if I give a damn.
Wren Kingston is mine.
And it’s about time he knows it.
This is a full length, dark high school romance with themes some readers might find offensive. It is book 2 of 3 in the Kingston Brothers series but can be read as an interlinking standalone. PLEASE NOTE: This book is M/M. Books 1 & 3 are M/F.
Kindle Edition
First published April 6, 2021
About the author
Bethany Winters
8 books1,242 followersJoin Bethany Winters' Book Baddies: https://bit.ly/320AK49
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November 6, 2022
rr: november 2022
I wrap both hands around his neck and he tightens his grip on me, walking me back towards the bathroom across the hall. "You still mad?"
"So fuckin' mad."
"But you love me?"
"So fuckin' much."
~ yall pls tell me why i'm obsessed with this dialogue?? idk why either.
i was in the mood for something with ott dramatics and this came to mind. it was still chaotic and messy as i last remembered and so many side plots had me like what the fuck, but my love for Wren and Levi remained the same. i still loved them so much. 🥹
***
5 stars ☆
Wren and Levi's story made me feel so much. sexual tension and angst are some of my favorite kinds of romance. this book also had its cute moments and suspense. i loved the bond between the brothers and the way they would go to hell and back for one another. 🥺 i'm excited to read Kai's story and his own HEA because he deserves the world. he literally . also, the way Levi described Kai as, 'This is the thing about Kai Kingston - he's a nasty motherfucker with a mean streak and an evil ass grin to match, but beneath all that bullshit he wears like armor, he's got a heart of fucking gold.', you just know he deserves his own happy ending.
idk if i wanna read Callie and Damon's story though cause, as cute as their dynamic was here, i've read spoilers that , but i'd be interested if Ryan and Rachel ever have their own book. 👀
I wrap both hands around his neck and he tightens his grip on me, walking me back towards the bathroom across the hall. "You still mad?"
"So fuckin' mad."
"But you love me?"
"So fuckin' much."
~ yall pls tell me why i'm obsessed with this dialogue?? idk why either.
i was in the mood for something with ott dramatics and this came to mind. it was still chaotic and messy as i last remembered and so many side plots had me like what the fuck, but my love for Wren and Levi remained the same. i still loved them so much. 🥹
***
5 stars ☆
Wren and Levi's story made me feel so much. sexual tension and angst are some of my favorite kinds of romance. this book also had its cute moments and suspense. i loved the bond between the brothers and the way they would go to hell and back for one another. 🥺 i'm excited to read Kai's story and his own HEA because he deserves the world. he literally . also, the way Levi described Kai as, 'This is the thing about Kai Kingston - he's a nasty motherfucker with a mean streak and an evil ass grin to match, but beneath all that bullshit he wears like armor, he's got a heart of fucking gold.', you just know he deserves his own happy ending.
idk if i wanna read Callie and Damon's story though cause, as cute as their dynamic was here, i've read spoilers that , but i'd be interested if Ryan and Rachel ever have their own book. 👀
May 23, 2022
this was so fucking dumb. and i ate this shit up. i low-key loathe how much i loved this💀
it was something Ashley Jade would write but make it mm.
it was something Ashley Jade would write but make it mm.
April 28, 2021
☆4.5 Stars☆
"After they caught us in his bedroom that night, I played it off and told them he didn’t mean anything to me. I said it was just a one time thing, a little bit of fun to distract myself, a fucking experiment..
I lied."
Wren Kingston's and Levi Matthews' story was unexpected, intense and ANGTSY!! I gotta admit though, the relation between the brothers and the group dynamic was A-mazing.✧˖°
▽Wren Kingston
"He sets me on fire and tears me apart from the inside out. All this pain and heartache and loss and this giant hole in my chest that makes it feel like there’s a piece of me missing.. he takes it away until all I feel is him."
I felt him. Wren, being one of the three Kingston brothers was a part of the Westbrook elite. But beneath the surface, everything ain't all that dandy. His thought processes felt genuine and that always goes a huge way for me.
▽Levi Matthews
"I’ve loved you for as long as I can remember. It’s always been you, Wren.”
Levi's always liked Wren. Levi was kinda the best-written character. His backstory is dark. But the strength in this man is huge. He never let his past dictate who he is, as a person. The way he protected Callie made me ache. Levi just might be my favorite character in the book!
▽Secondary characters
↳I adored Wren's and (his twin)Kai's relation. I might actually be jealous!!
“Promise me you will,” he says quietly, mindlessly walking two fingers over my forearm. “If anything like that ever happens again, promise me you’ll call me first. Just promise me you’ll let me fuckin’ be there for you, no matter what.”
“I promise, brother.”
↳Damon & Callie - Damon is Wren and Kai's older brother and Callie is his wife. Callie was a character that stood out and Damon was great as a brother in here. They had an interesting dynamic and I'm curious so I'll pick it up sooner or later. Their book is #1 in The Kingston Brothers series.
↳Ryan & Rachel -Ryan and Rachel's connection is 🔥 and their novella is something I'll be looking out for👀 (Levi and Ryan are huge friends and Levi is a sometimes house guest at Ryan's place)
↳Freya - Wren's ex. Usually I always have a thing for the side character who's bitchy af BUT Freya? I'd gladly punch her on the head. She lacks personality. But she's presented as such and the author did a great job of making her annoying!
↳Also, Zane😳 Zane is Levi's psycho cousin who is absolutely and spectacularly outta his mind. In real life? He should be locked up😈. Which obviously means I can't wait to read his book.
The only drawback was that I might have had way too high expectations going in. They were mostly met but it was a little lighter than I was expecting. That aside, this is just the author's 2nd book! That's some serious talent right there. Reckless At Westbrook High is a captivating read with an engaging plot and the build-up doesn't disappoint at all. The characters felt real and their povs were aptly presented and were true to themselves!✧✧
“Lev?”
“Yeah?”
“Are you mine?”
He laughs lightly at that, slowly pulling back until his eyes hit mine. “I’ve always been yours, Wren.”
"After they caught us in his bedroom that night, I played it off and told them he didn’t mean anything to me. I said it was just a one time thing, a little bit of fun to distract myself, a fucking experiment..
I lied."
Wren Kingston's and Levi Matthews' story was unexpected, intense and ANGTSY!! I gotta admit though, the relation between the brothers and the group dynamic was A-mazing.✧˖°
▽Wren Kingston
"He sets me on fire and tears me apart from the inside out. All this pain and heartache and loss and this giant hole in my chest that makes it feel like there’s a piece of me missing.. he takes it away until all I feel is him."
I felt him. Wren, being one of the three Kingston brothers was a part of the Westbrook elite. But beneath the surface, everything ain't all that dandy. His thought processes felt genuine and that always goes a huge way for me.
▽Levi Matthews
"I’ve loved you for as long as I can remember. It’s always been you, Wren.”
Levi's always liked Wren. Levi was kinda the best-written character. His backstory is dark. But the strength in this man is huge. He never let his past dictate who he is, as a person. The way he protected Callie made me ache. Levi just might be my favorite character in the book!
▽Secondary characters
↳I adored Wren's and (his twin)Kai's relation. I might actually be jealous!!
“Promise me you will,” he says quietly, mindlessly walking two fingers over my forearm. “If anything like that ever happens again, promise me you’ll call me first. Just promise me you’ll let me fuckin’ be there for you, no matter what.”
“I promise, brother.”
↳Damon & Callie - Damon is Wren and Kai's older brother and Callie is his wife. Callie was a character that stood out and Damon was great as a brother in here. They had an interesting dynamic and I'm curious so I'll pick it up sooner or later. Their book is #1 in The Kingston Brothers series.
↳Ryan & Rachel -Ryan and Rachel's connection is 🔥 and their novella is something I'll be looking out for👀 (Levi and Ryan are huge friends and Levi is a sometimes house guest at Ryan's place)
↳Freya - Wren's ex. Usually I always have a thing for the side character who's bitchy af BUT Freya? I'd gladly punch her on the head. She lacks personality. But she's presented as such and the author did a great job of making her annoying!
↳Also, Zane😳 Zane is Levi's psycho cousin who is absolutely and spectacularly outta his mind. In real life? He should be locked up😈. Which obviously means I can't wait to read his book.
The only drawback was that I might have had way too high expectations going in. They were mostly met but it was a little lighter than I was expecting. That aside, this is just the author's 2nd book! That's some serious talent right there. Reckless At Westbrook High is a captivating read with an engaging plot and the build-up doesn't disappoint at all. The characters felt real and their povs were aptly presented and were true to themselves!✧✧
“Lev?”
“Yeah?”
“Are you mine?”
He laughs lightly at that, slowly pulling back until his eyes hit mine. “I’ve always been yours, Wren.”
April 19, 2021
"you still mad?"
"so fuckin' mad."
"But you love me?"
"So fuckin' much."
FINALLY! When i say i want an M/M bully/dark romance; this is what i mean!
this book is in no way perfect; but the relationship between Levi and Wren was just absolute perfection for me, in the way that it wasn't perfect at all. There was just so much back story and history between them, the fights and arguments were dealt with in a way that only a dark romance plot could pull off: Man-handling & hate sex. The "broken bad boy" reaaally worked in this, with Wren; it didn't make me feel like he's a rich prick or make me roll my eyes.
But overall, i just think this was such a fun ride. The characters were crazy and loud, the plot kept me on my toes and i didn't feel bored for a second.
"so fuckin' mad."
"But you love me?"
"So fuckin' much."
FINALLY! When i say i want an M/M bully/dark romance; this is what i mean!
this book is in no way perfect; but the relationship between Levi and Wren was just absolute perfection for me, in the way that it wasn't perfect at all. There was just so much back story and history between them, the fights and arguments were dealt with in a way that only a dark romance plot could pull off: Man-handling & hate sex. The "broken bad boy" reaaally worked in this, with Wren; it didn't make me feel like he's a rich prick or make me roll my eyes.
But overall, i just think this was such a fun ride. The characters were crazy and loud, the plot kept me on my toes and i didn't feel bored for a second.
January 25, 2022
Oh thank god it ended.
💨 My couldn't be bothered thoughts:
- 2 stars for Wren and Levi's romance
- 1 star for everything else this book is
- when I've thought, I read overdramatic, I underestimated this book
- honestly, ✨ I want Zane's book, BUT MAKE HIM GAY PLEASE✨
💨 My couldn't be bothered thoughts:
- 2 stars for Wren and Levi's romance
- 1 star for everything else this book is
- when I've thought, I read overdramatic, I underestimated this book
- honestly, ✨ I want Zane's book, BUT MAKE HIM GAY PLEASE✨
Shelved as 'dropped'
January 6, 2024***no rating***
dropped @30%
F* until the point I dropped it this was entertaining. And delicious. With all the OTT drama only a high school romance can provide. I can see why people call this one a guilty pleasure of theirs. *lol
But I have enough for now. While I found Wren’s and Levi’s back and forth hot af, the evil-ex plot is grading on my nerves right now. Hard.
(And I have too much eye-rolling going on for all the stereotyping and misogyny.)
*************
Kingston Brothers Series
Book 1 - Kings of Westbrook High (MF)
Book 2 - Reckless at Westbrook High (MM) - dropped
Book 3 - Chaos at Westbrook High (MF) - what happened to that book?
dropped @30%
F* until the point I dropped it this was entertaining. And delicious. With all the OTT drama only a high school romance can provide. I can see why people call this one a guilty pleasure of theirs. *lol
I know I should stay away from him, […]
I should do that.
But I won’t.
Can’t.
I’ve tried, and it doesn’t fucking work.
He’s all I want.
He’s all I’ve ever wanted.
But I have enough for now. While I found Wren’s and Levi’s back and forth hot af, the evil-ex plot is grading on my nerves right now. Hard.
(And I have too much eye-rolling going on for all the stereotyping and misogyny.)
*************
Kingston Brothers Series
Book 1 - Kings of Westbrook High (MF)
Book 2 - Reckless at Westbrook High (MM) - dropped
Book 3 - Chaos at Westbrook High (MF) - what happened to that book?
June 21, 2021
I loved everything about this book, so much so that I read it twice in the same week 🖤🔥🖤🔥.
After my first read through, I really wished I’d read Kings of Westbrook High first. Although this one can be enjoyed as a standalone, it's part of a series by Bethany Winters and Reckless at Westbrook High does feature the characters from book one. So I went back and read Kings (soooo good too) and then re-read Reckless 🥰.
Reckless at Westbrook High is a dark m/m romance and focuses on Wren and Levi, both broken bad boys with a stack of history between them and a world of hurt ahead. So much family drama too (murder included). It's set in an elite high school, so it's NA (i.e. 18+), very angsty,very steamy🔥🔥🔥 with lots of twists and turns, but very much a dark romance, so beware of triggers.
I can not wait for Kai's story! 🖤🖤🖤
Highly recommended.
All the stars ✨✨✨✨✨
After my first read through, I really wished I’d read Kings of Westbrook High first. Although this one can be enjoyed as a standalone, it's part of a series by Bethany Winters and Reckless at Westbrook High does feature the characters from book one. So I went back and read Kings (soooo good too) and then re-read Reckless 🥰.
Reckless at Westbrook High is a dark m/m romance and focuses on Wren and Levi, both broken bad boys with a stack of history between them and a world of hurt ahead. So much family drama too (murder included). It's set in an elite high school, so it's NA (i.e. 18+), very angsty,very steamy🔥🔥🔥 with lots of twists and turns, but very much a dark romance, so beware of triggers.
I can not wait for Kai's story! 🖤🖤🖤
Highly recommended.
All the stars ✨✨✨✨✨
October 24, 2021
⭐︎ 3.5 "It Was Good, But The Plot Was Kinda OTT Even For Me" Stars⭐︎
I was hoping this would be really good, all dark and angsty but delicious chemistry between our MC's and all that.
And funnily enough, I couldn't stop reading...until 90% when I had to take a break and sleep. Even though I was so close to finishing I was like "I can stop here and come back in the morning."
Now, as I've said many a time before, if the characters and relationship is really good, I can usually let go of the plot if it isn't very good or needs improvement or OTT or what have you. But this, for me even, just got a little too wild. I can excuse a lot, but even here I was feeling like "I have to suspend my disbelief BEYOND belief" lol
Because while I loved our MC's together, Wren and Levi, and they carried most of this, and they are the main reason for giving this 3.5 stars....the plot was....a tad sophomoric, I guess? (And here lies MAJOR SPOILERS ahead, so if you don't want to be spoiled, stop reading now:
What's wild to me is that, these are high schoolers, okay. Very rich ones, sure, but still. High schoolers.
But Wren's older brother Damon - by 11 months so he's still in the same grade as his twin younger brothers, Wren and Kai - is married to Callie, the MC's from the previous book. They haven't even finished high school and they're married?? Okay.
But like, that's them and I didn't read theirs, so whatever.
But then also these three brothers like "rule" their school and town - okay, I can buy that. But that it's not just in a social way, I think. I think they bully and intimidate everyone else and they're literally like the "Kings" of this high school and I'm like...okay...okay that's a little much.
But then Soap Opera alert, Wren's ex-girlfriend comes back and has, of course, blackmail material on Wren of Wren apparently killing someone but oh no, it's not actually that, but it is him and Levi helping to bury a body Levi's cousin murdered - because the guy 'touched' his girl, which...UGH - and this cousin - Who is also in high school or college age, mind you - has threatened to just straight up murder them both if they talk about it.
So anyway, this ex-girlfriend blackmails Wren into getting back with her - this ex-girlfriend who, btw, cheated on him with his cousin, a cousin who apparently tried to rape Callie, the MC from book one, and who is on the lamb, I guess - and he does it because of course he does.
Also, apparently, their step-mother - and Callie's mother - had murdered the brother's mother years ago - holy SOAP OPERA man! - and is now in jail. She also murdered Callie's father who was, of course, complete scumbag and raping Callie a lot of her life *barf*
But OH NO, that's not all. Levi, whose father is a monster and who like...owns a bunch of casinos and such, is almost like a...loan shark...or something like that, I guess? - and he came to Callie's father years ago for payment he owed, the father offered up Callie instead - GROSS - and Levi's father and his father's best friend/right hand man proceeded to rape her repeatedly, WITH Levi there.
Levi tried to stop it and they just beat him up, but he was able to him and Callie away. BUT he and his father were wearing masks so Callie doesn't know it's him and Levi has been keeping it a secret that he knows who she is.
And THEN, and THEN, it all comes to a head and it's revealed that Levi's father is the one who did it, Levi knew, the brothers are taken, Callie is expected to marry Levi, Wren is mad at Levi for keeping his a secret, they all are able to get away from this situation - from grown up, scary ass mob-type guys, OKAY.
And THEN Levi's father just...lets them go for a few days, I guess? But he's planning to try to kill the brothers again and make Callie and Levi marry, but of courSE these TEENAGERS are able to get the drop on a freaking mobster like guy, capture him, TORTURE him, kill him, expose his whole criminal enterprise, and make it seem like he just went on the lamb. SURE.
Okay, this is when I about had enough. It was at the end, though, at least??? Lmao, I just...*sighhh* it was A LOT.
And okay, I'm good with teenagers who live in a life with a parent in organized crime, who is a monster, who has a hard, hard life, who is damaged and rough around the edges. All that, I don't mind at all. I've read things like that before and loved it.
BUT...this....was just way way too unbelievable for me for so much of it. Because these are 17/18 year olds! One couple is married! And spoilers:
And we're supposed to believe these are hardened, badass fuckers who can take down a whole criminal organization? Sure, Callie and Levi have been planning too for 3 years, but it seems like they don't even really have a plan until...well until they're doing it at 90%.
And maybe Levi's father doesn't have a huge criminal organization, but he's big and scary enough to have a ton of money, many men to bodyguard him and such, and kill people easily without breaking a sweat about it.
And oh yeah, all these teenagers do all this without even being in danger of being caught. The police are a non-issue.
Oh also Wren's ex-girlfriend was gonna try to resort to date-raping Wren to get knocked up and trap him in a relationship. AHKDJASH I Can't! Just another OTT thing.
I can't, guys. This is too much.
But yeah...I am giving this 3.5 stars - although rounding down. Why, you say? Because I did love Wren and Levi together. I loved their chemistry. I felt their love for each other. The characters and relationship are a big aspect of my enjoyment and these two delivered on the romance front. The sex scenes could have been improved upon, in my opinion, but what we got was good.
I'm a sucker for possessiveness if both love it - and maybe both do it - and these two were hella possessive and I loved it.
And okay, there was even a car blowjob scene - with Levi's dad bound up and tied up in the back lol - and I kinda totally loved it.
So there were definite aspects to enjoy. And even though Callie was kinda a lot, I kinda liked her.
(A little too much....talk of hetero sex, though, for my tastes. And I didn't read this but I looked at reviews for the first book and apparently there was a threesome scene of Wren and Kai fucking Callie from both ends - and Damon *watched*??? - okayyyy. Wild, but...well thankfully I didn't read the first book? lol)
But all these *high schoolers* were a little too...badass, I guess you could say? They had no qualms about holding a gun and using it, and carrying it around 24/7, and beating others up, talking a big game, and following through. At 17/18 years old.
Which...if it was one character, maybe, yeah, sure. But this is like...a whole group/family who are just...all apparently such badasses and can handle anything. Felt a little too unbelievable for me.
Also Wren's ex was more a two-dimensional villain and didn't feel real or like she had depth. She was just there to be the villain.
Whew...so yeah. And maybe if just some of these elements and storylines were there, this wouldn't have felt so OTT. But all of it together? Felt like a LOT. And of course more than one character can be angst-city, but I guess all of them together just felt like too much? Idk. It was a lot. It felt like OTT for the sake of making them all tortured and ~deep and again, they're still in freakin' high school! I would maybe bought all this more if they were in their 20's or older.
But all this has happened to very rich kids, and they happen to be friends with someone's father who is like a mob boss...type...dude? And they're not remotely afraid of him? Because their dad owns....hotel chains? A Hilton type guy? Really?
(And yes, they've had shit happen to them to make them hardened with grief, but...to not fear someone so monstrous and with so much power? No buying it, sorry.)
So anyway. The relationship aspect of this was good, really good, and I loved it. The characters held up, for the most part. The MC's for sure, at least.
But the plot? Way, way too much for me. It brought this down for me. I would have given this 5 stars if the plot had been way less OTT and melodramatic and unrealistic. But as it was...it just didn't work for me. And usually it can, even if things are a little OTT. But when it's WAY too OTT, with so many OTT things happening, it's too much even for me.
So....kinda maybe worth a read? For the romance, at least. The rest of it??? Maybe not so much....
I was hoping this would be really good, all dark and angsty but delicious chemistry between our MC's and all that.
And funnily enough, I couldn't stop reading...until 90% when I had to take a break and sleep. Even though I was so close to finishing I was like "I can stop here and come back in the morning."
Now, as I've said many a time before, if the characters and relationship is really good, I can usually let go of the plot if it isn't very good or needs improvement or OTT or what have you. But this, for me even, just got a little too wild. I can excuse a lot, but even here I was feeling like "I have to suspend my disbelief BEYOND belief" lol
Because while I loved our MC's together, Wren and Levi, and they carried most of this, and they are the main reason for giving this 3.5 stars....the plot was....a tad sophomoric, I guess? (And here lies MAJOR SPOILERS ahead, so if you don't want to be spoiled, stop reading now:
What's wild to me is that, these are high schoolers, okay. Very rich ones, sure, but still. High schoolers.
But Wren's older brother Damon - by 11 months so he's still in the same grade as his twin younger brothers, Wren and Kai - is married to Callie, the MC's from the previous book. They haven't even finished high school and they're married?? Okay.
But like, that's them and I didn't read theirs, so whatever.
But then also these three brothers like "rule" their school and town - okay, I can buy that. But that it's not just in a social way, I think. I think they bully and intimidate everyone else and they're literally like the "Kings" of this high school and I'm like...okay...okay that's a little much.
But then Soap Opera alert, Wren's ex-girlfriend comes back and has, of course, blackmail material on Wren of Wren apparently killing someone but oh no, it's not actually that, but it is him and Levi helping to bury a body Levi's cousin murdered - because the guy 'touched' his girl, which...UGH - and this cousin - Who is also in high school or college age, mind you - has threatened to just straight up murder them both if they talk about it.
So anyway, this ex-girlfriend blackmails Wren into getting back with her - this ex-girlfriend who, btw, cheated on him with his cousin, a cousin who apparently tried to rape Callie, the MC from book one, and who is on the lamb, I guess - and he does it because of course he does.
Also, apparently, their step-mother - and Callie's mother - had murdered the brother's mother years ago - holy SOAP OPERA man! - and is now in jail. She also murdered Callie's father who was, of course, complete scumbag and raping Callie a lot of her life *barf*
But OH NO, that's not all. Levi, whose father is a monster and who like...owns a bunch of casinos and such, is almost like a...loan shark...or something like that, I guess? - and he came to Callie's father years ago for payment he owed, the father offered up Callie instead - GROSS - and Levi's father and his father's best friend/right hand man proceeded to rape her repeatedly, WITH Levi there.
Levi tried to stop it and they just beat him up, but he was able to him and Callie away. BUT he and his father were wearing masks so Callie doesn't know it's him and Levi has been keeping it a secret that he knows who she is.
And THEN, and THEN, it all comes to a head and it's revealed that Levi's father is the one who did it, Levi knew, the brothers are taken, Callie is expected to marry Levi, Wren is mad at Levi for keeping his a secret, they all are able to get away from this situation - from grown up, scary ass mob-type guys, OKAY.
And THEN Levi's father just...lets them go for a few days, I guess? But he's planning to try to kill the brothers again and make Callie and Levi marry, but of courSE these TEENAGERS are able to get the drop on a freaking mobster like guy, capture him, TORTURE him, kill him, expose his whole criminal enterprise, and make it seem like he just went on the lamb. SURE.
Okay, this is when I about had enough. It was at the end, though, at least??? Lmao, I just...*sighhh* it was A LOT.
And okay, I'm good with teenagers who live in a life with a parent in organized crime, who is a monster, who has a hard, hard life, who is damaged and rough around the edges. All that, I don't mind at all. I've read things like that before and loved it.
BUT...this....was just way way too unbelievable for me for so much of it. Because these are 17/18 year olds! One couple is married! And spoilers:
And we're supposed to believe these are hardened, badass fuckers who can take down a whole criminal organization? Sure, Callie and Levi have been planning too for 3 years, but it seems like they don't even really have a plan until...well until they're doing it at 90%.
And maybe Levi's father doesn't have a huge criminal organization, but he's big and scary enough to have a ton of money, many men to bodyguard him and such, and kill people easily without breaking a sweat about it.
And oh yeah, all these teenagers do all this without even being in danger of being caught. The police are a non-issue.
Oh also Wren's ex-girlfriend was gonna try to resort to date-raping Wren to get knocked up and trap him in a relationship. AHKDJASH I Can't! Just another OTT thing.
I can't, guys. This is too much.
But yeah...I am giving this 3.5 stars - although rounding down. Why, you say? Because I did love Wren and Levi together. I loved their chemistry. I felt their love for each other. The characters and relationship are a big aspect of my enjoyment and these two delivered on the romance front. The sex scenes could have been improved upon, in my opinion, but what we got was good.
I'm a sucker for possessiveness if both love it - and maybe both do it - and these two were hella possessive and I loved it.
And okay, there was even a car blowjob scene - with Levi's dad bound up and tied up in the back lol - and I kinda totally loved it.
So there were definite aspects to enjoy. And even though Callie was kinda a lot, I kinda liked her.
(A little too much....talk of hetero sex, though, for my tastes. And I didn't read this but I looked at reviews for the first book and apparently there was a threesome scene of Wren and Kai fucking Callie from both ends - and Damon *watched*??? - okayyyy. Wild, but...well thankfully I didn't read the first book? lol)
But all these *high schoolers* were a little too...badass, I guess you could say? They had no qualms about holding a gun and using it, and carrying it around 24/7, and beating others up, talking a big game, and following through. At 17/18 years old.
Which...if it was one character, maybe, yeah, sure. But this is like...a whole group/family who are just...all apparently such badasses and can handle anything. Felt a little too unbelievable for me.
Also Wren's ex was more a two-dimensional villain and didn't feel real or like she had depth. She was just there to be the villain.
Whew...so yeah. And maybe if just some of these elements and storylines were there, this wouldn't have felt so OTT. But all of it together? Felt like a LOT. And of course more than one character can be angst-city, but I guess all of them together just felt like too much? Idk. It was a lot. It felt like OTT for the sake of making them all tortured and ~deep and again, they're still in freakin' high school! I would maybe bought all this more if they were in their 20's or older.
But all this has happened to very rich kids, and they happen to be friends with someone's father who is like a mob boss...type...dude? And they're not remotely afraid of him? Because their dad owns....hotel chains? A Hilton type guy? Really?
(And yes, they've had shit happen to them to make them hardened with grief, but...to not fear someone so monstrous and with so much power? No buying it, sorry.)
So anyway. The relationship aspect of this was good, really good, and I loved it. The characters held up, for the most part. The MC's for sure, at least.
But the plot? Way, way too much for me. It brought this down for me. I would have given this 5 stars if the plot had been way less OTT and melodramatic and unrealistic. But as it was...it just didn't work for me. And usually it can, even if things are a little OTT. But when it's WAY too OTT, with so many OTT things happening, it's too much even for me.
So....kinda maybe worth a read? For the romance, at least. The rest of it??? Maybe not so much....
January 16, 2023
I actually really liked this. I’m surprised because I swore to myself that I was done with super dramatic high school romances, and this one was dramatic to the max. But I loved this. Although I said this was a high school romance, I ignored the high school part. They really weren’t in school much in this book and it wasn’t mentioned, so I pretended like that wasn’t true. In my eyes this is just a crazy and dark romance.
I didn’t read this first book of the series. I just went straight into this one because you know my love for MM romances, but I wish I would’ve read the first one. It was said that this could be read as a standalone, but I don’t really agree. I kinda figured out what was going on at the end, but I would’ve been way less confused if I knew more of the story from book 1.
Wren and Levi are the love interests of this book, and I loved those dudes. Their love was strong and extremely possessive, which we LOVE. The spice between them was also super dirty. Wren fought his feelings about Levi in the beginning. He didn’t know what was going on with him, since he thought he was straight, so we have a little gay-for-you going on here, but I love that trope. When he stopped fighting it, though? Zoo wee mama.
There was some issues in this book that was building up throughout the story, but you had no idea what was going on. Well, I at least had no idea. I’m not sure if any of it was mentioned in the first book. These issues came to a head at the end, and my poor heart broke for Wren. He’s had so much hurt in his life, and he was dang near unraveling at the end, and it hurt to see.
There was a lot of dark stuff in this book, hence the title “dark romance”. But wowza. It was very traumatic, and my heart hurts for almost every character in the book. Especially Callie. I’m almost tempted to read the first book just because of her because she’s so crazy. And very sweet to the people close to her despite the crap she’s been through. We love a strong woman.
If you’re in the mood for a dark and wack romance, that has bits of possessive and swoony parts, give this a go. I’m gonna have to look more into this author after reading this one. Because wow.
I didn’t read this first book of the series. I just went straight into this one because you know my love for MM romances, but I wish I would’ve read the first one. It was said that this could be read as a standalone, but I don’t really agree. I kinda figured out what was going on at the end, but I would’ve been way less confused if I knew more of the story from book 1.
Wren and Levi are the love interests of this book, and I loved those dudes. Their love was strong and extremely possessive, which we LOVE. The spice between them was also super dirty. Wren fought his feelings about Levi in the beginning. He didn’t know what was going on with him, since he thought he was straight, so we have a little gay-for-you going on here, but I love that trope. When he stopped fighting it, though? Zoo wee mama.
There was some issues in this book that was building up throughout the story, but you had no idea what was going on. Well, I at least had no idea. I’m not sure if any of it was mentioned in the first book. These issues came to a head at the end, and my poor heart broke for Wren. He’s had so much hurt in his life, and he was dang near unraveling at the end, and it hurt to see.
There was a lot of dark stuff in this book, hence the title “dark romance”. But wowza. It was very traumatic, and my heart hurts for almost every character in the book. Especially Callie. I’m almost tempted to read the first book just because of her because she’s so crazy. And very sweet to the people close to her despite the crap she’s been through. We love a strong woman.
If you’re in the mood for a dark and wack romance, that has bits of possessive and swoony parts, give this a go. I’m gonna have to look more into this author after reading this one. Because wow.
November 10, 2022
Ermmmmm......
Things I liked:
- Wren and Levi's relationship. Aggressive, possessive, obsession. Loved it.
- the bond between the brothers.
Things I didn't like:
- literally everything else 😂
I'm all for suspended belief, but my belief wasn't just suspended, it got up and flat out left the building.
These kids are 17/18 in the present, but parts of flashbacks they're like 13/14. I was legit playing The Sims, removing pool ladders at that age (still do that!), but these kids are actually living like mini mobsters!!!
The plot was insane. I'd also say this can't really be read as a standalone if you want the full picture, but it wasn't overly hard to get the vague gist of things.
Sometimes I think the author needs to take a step back and maybe tone it down just a tad! It had the potential to be really good but it was just that bit too unbelievable.
Things I liked:
- Wren and Levi's relationship. Aggressive, possessive, obsession. Loved it.
- the bond between the brothers.
Things I didn't like:
- literally everything else 😂
I'm all for suspended belief, but my belief wasn't just suspended, it got up and flat out left the building.
These kids are 17/18 in the present, but parts of flashbacks they're like 13/14. I was legit playing The Sims, removing pool ladders at that age (still do that!), but these kids are actually living like mini mobsters!!!
The plot was insane. I'd also say this can't really be read as a standalone if you want the full picture, but it wasn't overly hard to get the vague gist of things.
Sometimes I think the author needs to take a step back and maybe tone it down just a tad! It had the potential to be really good but it was just that bit too unbelievable.
August 30, 2021
5/5 *I need more of this type of content* stars
"He's the one under my skin.
He's the one I can't stop thinking about.
He's fucking everything to me."
I only rated this book earlier this year, but since I have read it so many times it's basically become a comfort read for me, I have to write a review. The review is, I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS BOOK!
I actually read this book before the first, but it wasn't disjointed, and I could sort of piece everything together. I do recommend reading book one first as it does help with the transition but it's definitely not a must.
Why did I love this book so damn much? THE PINING! THE FREAKING PINING!!! I love a good MM romance story as much as the next person, but what really draws me into a story is when two characters who we know are meant to be, aren't together. All you get is this insane amount of inner thoughts and conflict pertaining to their love interest, and the angst because all you're doing is rooting for both of them, and "why haven't they kissed already?!?" And why does the pining in this book stand out to me, you ask? The way it's written. It is obvious from the beginning of the story that both MCs are into each other, and although they are not together the longing creates this air of possessiveness towards each other that is just combustible when they finally get together. For real, my kindle caught fire (pun-intended). I had to buy another one lmao.
Gahh, I really want to get into the specifics but I think that's why I struggled with the review the first time I read it; I can never do it justice. All you need to know is that yes, it is OTT (like extremely. Almost unbelievable. Thus, you have to suspend some of your beliefs heheh) but that does not detract from the beauty of the story, there is such a strong bond between the Wren (one of the MCs) and his brothers and that part of the story just made me love it more, Levi is hot and jealous and possessive and intense (basically he's perfect), all the parents in this book except Wren's dad can eff off, AND this book is so spicy. Like all the characters (ALL. OF. THEM.) are just 🥵🥵🥵
P.S. I need Zane's story because he's extra 🥵 and Kai's too because it's impossible to not love him. I dare anyone to not love Kai.
Bethany Winters has quickly become a one-click author for me, and the fact that there may be another MM in the works right at this very moment has me squealinggggg. Can I have it tomorrow?
"He's the one under my skin.
He's the one I can't stop thinking about.
He's fucking everything to me."
I only rated this book earlier this year, but since I have read it so many times it's basically become a comfort read for me, I have to write a review. The review is, I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS BOOK!
I actually read this book before the first, but it wasn't disjointed, and I could sort of piece everything together. I do recommend reading book one first as it does help with the transition but it's definitely not a must.
Why did I love this book so damn much? THE PINING! THE FREAKING PINING!!! I love a good MM romance story as much as the next person, but what really draws me into a story is when two characters who we know are meant to be, aren't together. All you get is this insane amount of inner thoughts and conflict pertaining to their love interest, and the angst because all you're doing is rooting for both of them, and "why haven't they kissed already?!?" And why does the pining in this book stand out to me, you ask? The way it's written. It is obvious from the beginning of the story that both MCs are into each other, and although they are not together the longing creates this air of possessiveness towards each other that is just combustible when they finally get together. For real, my kindle caught fire (pun-intended). I had to buy another one lmao.
Gahh, I really want to get into the specifics but I think that's why I struggled with the review the first time I read it; I can never do it justice. All you need to know is that yes, it is OTT (like extremely. Almost unbelievable. Thus, you have to suspend some of your beliefs heheh) but that does not detract from the beauty of the story, there is such a strong bond between the Wren (one of the MCs) and his brothers and that part of the story just made me love it more, Levi is hot and jealous and possessive and intense (basically he's perfect), all the parents in this book except Wren's dad can eff off, AND this book is so spicy. Like all the characters (ALL. OF. THEM.) are just 🥵🥵🥵
P.S. I need Zane's story because he's extra 🥵 and Kai's too because it's impossible to not love him. I dare anyone to not love Kai.
Bethany Winters has quickly become a one-click author for me, and the fact that there may be another MM in the works right at this very moment has me squealinggggg. Can I have it tomorrow?
February 9, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
April 29, 2022
MM Romance
High School Debauchery
5 "He’s so fucking hot when he’s mad" Stars
I am going to contradict some of my past reviews giving this such high marks because it had so many things I usually complain about but I was in the mood for something with crazy drama, OTT characters and a sexy hot romance and finding out this was by the same author as "Dirty Love" made this book perfect for my needs. While this says dark high school romance, I would classify this more as a dark world with morally grey characters and violence galore because the actual romance was actually really adorable in a wicked kind of way. This had major 'I'll burn down the world for you' vibes going through it and then add in some longing and the high school angst factor and I was smitten for Levi and Wren.
“I’ll ruin anyone who hurts you, period,” I say simply, flicking my roach into the ash tray on the table. “And if you even try to stop me, I’ll tape your hands behind your back and make you watch.”
“He punched you.”
I laugh lightly at that, tilting my head to speak over his lips. “You punch me all the time.”
“But you’re mine,” he informs me, wrapping his hand around my throat to keep me still. “I can do whatever the fuck I want with you.”
These two had also known each other since they were kids and Levi had been in love with Wren for years thinking he'd never have a chance until something happened that changed everything but if they were both honest, there had always been something between them that was different from everyone else. I could see the love between the two of them just watching them interact as friends but what made it even more obvious was how protective they were of each other. Even when Wren was pissed the fuck off at Levi, he protected him with everything he had. And Wren, fuck, that scene at the school near the end had me like grinning like a loon because it was so long overdue. It actually reminded me of-and I am going to age myself here-that scene in "My So Called Life" where Jordan finally takes Angela's hand in public and I remember being all swoony watching that episode wishing I could go back and watch it a thousand times. Instead, I was all swoony reading this book and gushing over the possessiveness that was Wren and Levi and loving the fuck out of their hotter than fuck sex scenes especially the one where Wren is pissed at Levi. I love some good hate sex and Levi letting Wren take control like that really showed just how willing he was to do anything for Wren. I also loved all the 'mine' and 'I'm yours' talk happening between them like it wasn't obvious they had belonged to each other the entire time.
“Lev?”
“Yeah?”
“Are you mine?”
He laughs lightly at that, slowly pulling back until his eyes hit mine. “I’ve always been yours, Wren.”
All that being said, I didn't read book one BUT I did read some reviews with spoilers and downloaded it on ku just to do a word search for Levi's name to see what his relationship with Wren was like prior to this book and to learn a bit more about Callie because she and Wren's brothers are featured heavily in this one and I had questions when I read the sample. I don't know if I needed it to be honest because this book did discuss past events but not all of them and I think the reason I liked this so much instead of just loving the couple was because I had some knowledge of wtf was going on. So while it says it can be read as a standalone, it does tie into the first one. Book 3 will be Kai's story and even though I don't read much MF anymore, I am almost tempted to read it just because of the cameos I'll have of Wren and Levi. THAT is how much I like them as a couple. Fucking Swoony.
High School Debauchery
5 "He’s so fucking hot when he’s mad" Stars
I am going to contradict some of my past reviews giving this such high marks because it had so many things I usually complain about but I was in the mood for something with crazy drama, OTT characters and a sexy hot romance and finding out this was by the same author as "Dirty Love" made this book perfect for my needs. While this says dark high school romance, I would classify this more as a dark world with morally grey characters and violence galore because the actual romance was actually really adorable in a wicked kind of way. This had major 'I'll burn down the world for you' vibes going through it and then add in some longing and the high school angst factor and I was smitten for Levi and Wren.
“I’ll ruin anyone who hurts you, period,” I say simply, flicking my roach into the ash tray on the table. “And if you even try to stop me, I’ll tape your hands behind your back and make you watch.”
“He punched you.”
I laugh lightly at that, tilting my head to speak over his lips. “You punch me all the time.”
“But you’re mine,” he informs me, wrapping his hand around my throat to keep me still. “I can do whatever the fuck I want with you.”
These two had also known each other since they were kids and Levi had been in love with Wren for years thinking he'd never have a chance until something happened that changed everything but if they were both honest, there had always been something between them that was different from everyone else. I could see the love between the two of them just watching them interact as friends but what made it even more obvious was how protective they were of each other. Even when Wren was pissed the fuck off at Levi, he protected him with everything he had. And Wren, fuck, that scene at the school near the end had me like grinning like a loon because it was so long overdue. It actually reminded me of-and I am going to age myself here-that scene in "My So Called Life" where Jordan finally takes Angela's hand in public and I remember being all swoony watching that episode wishing I could go back and watch it a thousand times. Instead, I was all swoony reading this book and gushing over the possessiveness that was Wren and Levi and loving the fuck out of their hotter than fuck sex scenes especially the one where Wren is pissed at Levi. I love some good hate sex and Levi letting Wren take control like that really showed just how willing he was to do anything for Wren. I also loved all the 'mine' and 'I'm yours' talk happening between them like it wasn't obvious they had belonged to each other the entire time.
“Lev?”
“Yeah?”
“Are you mine?”
He laughs lightly at that, slowly pulling back until his eyes hit mine. “I’ve always been yours, Wren.”
All that being said, I didn't read book one BUT I did read some reviews with spoilers and downloaded it on ku just to do a word search for Levi's name to see what his relationship with Wren was like prior to this book and to learn a bit more about Callie because she and Wren's brothers are featured heavily in this one and I had questions when I read the sample. I don't know if I needed it to be honest because this book did discuss past events but not all of them and I think the reason I liked this so much instead of just loving the couple was because I had some knowledge of wtf was going on. So while it says it can be read as a standalone, it does tie into the first one. Book 3 will be Kai's story and even though I don't read much MF anymore, I am almost tempted to read it just because of the cameos I'll have of Wren and Levi. THAT is how much I like them as a couple. Fucking Swoony.
April 10, 2023
« Lev ? »
« Yeah? »
« Are you mine? »
« I’ve always been yours, Wren »
« Levi’s the one, and I’ll do any fucking thing I can to ensure he gets everything he deserves and more. »
« Wren chews his lip to hide a cute ass grin, his baby blue eyes promissing me a million things I never thought I’d have. Family, freedom, love..him. It’s all mine. He’s all mine. »
« I’m keeping him for life, and fuck if I’m about to let any motherfucker take him away from me. He’s mine and he’ll stay mine. Whether he likes it or not. »
« Our heavy breathing mixes together for I don’t know how long and fuck, he tastes like whiskey and smoke and bad decisions that’ll get my ass beat, and I can’t help but crave more. »
« Yeah? »
« Are you mine? »
« I’ve always been yours, Wren »
« Levi’s the one, and I’ll do any fucking thing I can to ensure he gets everything he deserves and more. »
« Wren chews his lip to hide a cute ass grin, his baby blue eyes promissing me a million things I never thought I’d have. Family, freedom, love..him. It’s all mine. He’s all mine. »
« I’m keeping him for life, and fuck if I’m about to let any motherfucker take him away from me. He’s mine and he’ll stay mine. Whether he likes it or not. »
« Our heavy breathing mixes together for I don’t know how long and fuck, he tastes like whiskey and smoke and bad decisions that’ll get my ass beat, and I can’t help but crave more. »
March 11, 2022
I can’t believe I actually finished this book. I’m actually beyond baffled that I put myself through this torture. This book is bad, there really is no sugarcoating it. I didn’t read the first book in this series but the author promotes this book as an interlinking standalone so I thought I would be fine. I’m here to report that’s all lies - pure and utterly false. The plot made zero sense to me and honestly it probably wouldn’t have made much sense even if I HAD read the first book. There is no rhyme or reason to anything and things happen out of nowhere.
Besides the erratic plot line, there is legitimately no character development. None of the characters have any discernible personality other than being aggressively violent, getting drunk or high and being horny. Speaking of violence, there are many trigger warnings for this book. If you plan to read (please DON’T), be aware and check those before reading.
I honestly don’t want to think about this book for any longer than I have to 😅
What a start to 2022.
Besides the erratic plot line, there is legitimately no character development. None of the characters have any discernible personality other than being aggressively violent, getting drunk or high and being horny. Speaking of violence, there are many trigger warnings for this book. If you plan to read (please DON’T), be aware and check those before reading.
I honestly don’t want to think about this book for any longer than I have to 😅
What a start to 2022.
October 19, 2022
That's bad but compelling
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August 29, 2023
two stars only because levi and wren had their sweet moments otherwise I didn't like the rest of the book at all and it would have been one star too.
December 15, 2023
4.75
Okay. I loved wren and levi!!!
Okay. I loved wren and levi!!!
January 26, 2022
Well that was dramatic as shit and since I live for drama, you can guess how much I loved it😏.
October 22, 2021
4.5 ⭐️
Wow, I love me some mutually possessive boys.
I enjoyed this the way you enjoy a very guilty pleasure.
Wow, I love me some mutually possessive boys.
I enjoyed this the way you enjoy a very guilty pleasure.
March 16, 2022
This would have been so much better if it weren't a bunch of high schoolers. I mean, it didn't stop me from finishing it in one sitting because I'm a glutton for jealous, possessive bastards. Sigh! Anyways, if anybody knows where I can get more ridiculous shit like this- by all means!
September 14, 2021
4 - 4.5 stars!
This is the second book in the Kingston Brothers series and features Wren and Levi (Lev). I most definitely think the first book in this series needs to be read to fully appreciate this story BUT I do think it is also ok to read as a standalone like I did. There were some missing pieces for me but Wren and his brothers are Gods among men and there is a lot brewing around them. Wren and Lev run in the same circle and when Wren has his heart broken, its Lev who is there for him in more ways than one.
Wren and Lev have a connection that is delicious and while Wren fights it while Lev pursues it it's only a matter of time before they both burn together. But Lev has secrets, Wren is weary and there's forces around them set on destruction. Will the two of them come out in one piece?
The story was great and Wren and Lev together was SO FREAKING hot. Two manly men falling in love...whew. It's hard to explain the story to be honest so I'd suggest just jumping in and reading this if you like MM and maybe start with the first book.
Triggers:
Drug use
Violence
Trauma (from first book)
This is the second book in the Kingston Brothers series and features Wren and Levi (Lev). I most definitely think the first book in this series needs to be read to fully appreciate this story BUT I do think it is also ok to read as a standalone like I did. There were some missing pieces for me but Wren and his brothers are Gods among men and there is a lot brewing around them. Wren and Lev run in the same circle and when Wren has his heart broken, its Lev who is there for him in more ways than one.
Wren and Lev have a connection that is delicious and while Wren fights it while Lev pursues it it's only a matter of time before they both burn together. But Lev has secrets, Wren is weary and there's forces around them set on destruction. Will the two of them come out in one piece?
The story was great and Wren and Lev together was SO FREAKING hot. Two manly men falling in love...whew. It's hard to explain the story to be honest so I'd suggest just jumping in and reading this if you like MM and maybe start with the first book.
Triggers:
Drug use
Violence
Trauma (from first book)
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April 20, 2023
4.25 ☆
Wren and Levi have my heart!!🥹💞
This book was darker, more intense, and emotional than the other two.. I really wasn’t expecting it to get as intense as it did, but when it came the pain was very palpable. 💔
Their chemistry, the spice😮💨, the love Levi has always had for Wren that finally gets reciprocated back when Wren realizes his feelings for Levi, their character depth, personalities, just everything about them was chefs kiss!!
Two beautiful broken boys finding that soulmate, can’t live, can’t sleep, can’t breathe without you kind of love with one another, even though they have both been hurt beyond repair, it made my heart burst that they took that chance on each other and especially Wren who had already been through heartbreak and was scared to fall in love again, but oh man when he did… it was like nothing like ever before and Levi was right there to catch him.
I am so happy they got their HEA after all the on going problems/chaos they faced and overcame it all together.
🧸🔥♥️🤭
Wren and Levi have my heart!!🥹💞
This book was darker, more intense, and emotional than the other two.. I really wasn’t expecting it to get as intense as it did, but when it came the pain was very palpable. 💔
Their chemistry, the spice😮💨, the love Levi has always had for Wren that finally gets reciprocated back when Wren realizes his feelings for Levi, their character depth, personalities, just everything about them was chefs kiss!!
Two beautiful broken boys finding that soulmate, can’t live, can’t sleep, can’t breathe without you kind of love with one another, even though they have both been hurt beyond repair, it made my heart burst that they took that chance on each other and especially Wren who had already been through heartbreak and was scared to fall in love again, but oh man when he did… it was like nothing like ever before and Levi was right there to catch him.
I am so happy they got their HEA after all the on going problems/chaos they faced and overcame it all together.
🧸🔥♥️🤭
January 13, 2024
4/5 stars
“You still mad?”
“So fuckin’ mad.”
“But you love me?”
“So fuckin’ much.”
He grins over my mouth and pushes me back against the door, flicking the lock next to my hip. “Say it.”
“I love you,” I rasp, raking my hands through his hair to hold him there. “I love you so much it hurts.”
November 22, 2021
i honestly am not a hate reader. when ever i pick up a book, it is in hopes of being entertained. that is part of the reason i don't like leaving negative reviews. also, i get that writing a book isn't easy.
all that being said, as years go by, i've noticed that i have less energy to dole out sympathy stars.
this book is bad. plain and simple.
the plot is nonsensical and the romance incidental. there is little to no chemistry between levi and wren and it is glaringly obvious that the author wasn't fully into writing a m/m romance. many m/f readers seem to like m/m action when it is in conjunction of a straight romance and that's fine. but i don't like it when i get the energy from a m/m book.
there was on page straight sex, in the form of a threesome, which was written out to be hot, even though the other guy was gay and having to watch his love interest fuck a woman.
as for the plot, apparently in this version of the universe millionaire gangsters are so obsessed with getting their son to marry a teenage drug dealer with no money that they essentially lose their minds over it.
if you get into this thinking it's wren and levi's story, you'd be wrong. this is callie's story. at the beginning levi was musing to himself that he would never ask wren to chose between himself and callie, and even if he did, he would lose. later on, when shit goes down, wren doesn't fight for levi until he knows callie is okay. now, would this fly in a m/f book? no. the guy would fight anyone to be with his girl. but when it's too guys, it's not apparently that deep.
i have no energy to even go into the constant violence between our love birds.
this book has so many high reviews that i don't feel like i have to mince words, but i hate not saying anything positive. zane was the highlight of this story and if i was a reader of m/f, i honestly would probably check out his book. and if you can let go of any expectation of even a semblance of realism, the story does have a lot of drama. callie, for all i didn't like her, was never treated as less for what she'd gone through.
one very generous star.
all that being said, as years go by, i've noticed that i have less energy to dole out sympathy stars.
this book is bad. plain and simple.
the plot is nonsensical and the romance incidental. there is little to no chemistry between levi and wren and it is glaringly obvious that the author wasn't fully into writing a m/m romance. many m/f readers seem to like m/m action when it is in conjunction of a straight romance and that's fine. but i don't like it when i get the energy from a m/m book.
there was on page straight sex, in the form of a threesome, which was written out to be hot, even though the other guy was gay and having to watch his love interest fuck a woman.
as for the plot, apparently in this version of the universe millionaire gangsters are so obsessed with getting their son to marry a teenage drug dealer with no money that they essentially lose their minds over it.
if you get into this thinking it's wren and levi's story, you'd be wrong. this is callie's story. at the beginning levi was musing to himself that he would never ask wren to chose between himself and callie, and even if he did, he would lose. later on, when shit goes down, wren doesn't fight for levi until he knows callie is okay. now, would this fly in a m/f book? no. the guy would fight anyone to be with his girl. but when it's too guys, it's not apparently that deep.
i have no energy to even go into the constant violence between our love birds.
this book has so many high reviews that i don't feel like i have to mince words, but i hate not saying anything positive. zane was the highlight of this story and if i was a reader of m/f, i honestly would probably check out his book. and if you can let go of any expectation of even a semblance of realism, the story does have a lot of drama. callie, for all i didn't like her, was never treated as less for what she'd gone through.
one very generous star.
March 30, 2024
Bethany are you ready 😌🔥 .. WRENNY & LEV MY BABIES 😭🖤 A fucking RIDE is what these men had me on! I was fucking stressed 😫 I love them both so much bruh ! They are my absolute faves on my life 😭😍🖤🔥
♡ Levi.. honey 😫
• I love him so much it hurts and it’s fucking killing me.
• It’s me and him and he fucking knows it, he just won’t admit it yet.
“I like you mad.” “I like you silent.” - THE TEA KETTLE I BECAME I SWEAR 🤣
“I like that it’s just me,” I explain, slowly sliding my tongue over his bottom lip. “It makes you mine.” - LEVI OH MY FUCK
♡ Favorite moment between Callie & Lev:
• “You know I’m married, right?” “You know I can’t stand you, right?” - their whole dynamic bruh 🤣
♡ Older Bro protect mode activated 😌
• “If you hurt him, I’ll fucking kill you.” I nod, knowing he means that. “Okay.”
♡ Possesive Wren 🥵
“Ow, bitch.” “Pussy.” “Prick.” “Mine,” he fires back, dropping down beside me to pull me into him.
But this shit 🥵
“I’ll ruin anyone who hurts you, period,” I say simply, flicking my roach into the ash tray on the table. “And if you even try to stop me, I’ll tape your hands behind your back and make you watch.” He groans and drops his forehead on my temple, speaking in my ear. “You’re so fuckin’ hot.” - AGREED !!!! THAT SHIT WAS SEXY 🥵
♡ Fuck I live for an unconventional ily 😩 Just take my soul rn !
• “I don’t love you.” A light laugh leaves me and I turn my head to kiss his neck, speaking in his ear. “I don’t love you, either.”
Nickname simps: Lev - what I love a shortened name moment 🥺🖤
🔥Available on KU🔥
💥Always. Check. CW & TW. Act grown💥
♡ Levi.. honey 😫
• I love him so much it hurts and it’s fucking killing me.
• It’s me and him and he fucking knows it, he just won’t admit it yet.
“I like you mad.” “I like you silent.” - THE TEA KETTLE I BECAME I SWEAR 🤣
“I like that it’s just me,” I explain, slowly sliding my tongue over his bottom lip. “It makes you mine.” - LEVI OH MY FUCK
♡ Favorite moment between Callie & Lev:
• “You know I’m married, right?” “You know I can’t stand you, right?” - their whole dynamic bruh 🤣
♡ Older Bro protect mode activated 😌
• “If you hurt him, I’ll fucking kill you.” I nod, knowing he means that. “Okay.”
♡ Possesive Wren 🥵
“Ow, bitch.” “Pussy.” “Prick.” “Mine,” he fires back, dropping down beside me to pull me into him.
But this shit 🥵
“I’ll ruin anyone who hurts you, period,” I say simply, flicking my roach into the ash tray on the table. “And if you even try to stop me, I’ll tape your hands behind your back and make you watch.” He groans and drops his forehead on my temple, speaking in my ear. “You’re so fuckin’ hot.” - AGREED !!!! THAT SHIT WAS SEXY 🥵
♡ Fuck I live for an unconventional ily 😩 Just take my soul rn !
• “I don’t love you.” A light laugh leaves me and I turn my head to kiss his neck, speaking in his ear. “I don’t love you, either.”
Nickname simps: Lev - what I love a shortened name moment 🥺🖤
🔥Available on KU🔥
💥Always. Check. CW & TW. Act grown💥
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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May 24, 2022DNF at 23%, no rating. this one didn't feel like Standalone at all, they kept referring to past events all the time.
I felt lacking of major events and couldn't attached myself to the characters.
I felt lacking of major events and couldn't attached myself to the characters.
February 10, 2022
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 Stars! M/M romance, YA. If you are looking for a sexy as fuck MM, then don’t miss out on this one. It was so hot and spicy 🥵. Loved every bit of it! Recommend
March 28, 2021
Insanity. Phenomenal. Sexy AF.
Holy crap, the sexual tension, y'all. 🥵 There's just something about MM sexual tension that is HOT AF, but Levi and Wren were mother effing nuclear. I'm not even exaggerating, their chemistry was one of the most combustible things I've ever read and I FLOVED that.
And the plot? So. Damn. Good. All the twists and turns. The dynamics between Callie and the brothers. The lies and emotions. I just...I can't even form my thoughts because I loved it that much. Sometimes you click HARD with a story or series and this series is that for me. I love how the plot continues but new revelations are exposed, making the plot that much more badass and addicting. I loved how everyone kept pushing Levi and Wren together. The push/pull was FANTASTIC, but when they finally came together? Wooooooooo. ☠ And that ending? 😍
Gah! Can you tell I'm fangirling right now? Cuz I am.
April 26, 2021
JESUS... Levi and Wren are FIREEE 🔥🔥🔥🔥 I didn’t think I could love this series more, then this bad bitch drops a sexy ass mm and I’ve died and gone to hell 🔥 So sinfully hot these two were burning up the pages 🥵🥵🥵
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