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Defiant Kings #2
Shaken
Sawyer Kingston is an A**hole.
The thing is, he’s got everyone fooled. To them, he’s the gorgeous billionaire who owns the hottest bar in the city.
To me, he’s the cocky jerk whose favorite pastime has always been torturing me.
The only thing we’ve ever agreed on is our mutual dislike for each other. But that was before I moved in next-door to him, and we shockingly agreed on something else.
There’s a fine line between love and hate.
The problem is . . . I think I crossed that line.
The thing is, he’s got everyone fooled. To them, he’s the gorgeous billionaire who owns the hottest bar in the city.
To me, he’s the cocky jerk whose favorite pastime has always been torturing me.
The only thing we’ve ever agreed on is our mutual dislike for each other. But that was before I moved in next-door to him, and we shockingly agreed on something else.
There’s a fine line between love and hate.
The problem is . . . I think I crossed that line.
276 pages, Hardcover
First published February 16, 2023
1034 people are currently reading
2577 people want to read
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February 11, 2023
Stars: ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes/themes: 𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔, 𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒅𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒆𝒔, 𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓, 𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒃𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒇𝒊𝒕𝒔, 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚, 𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒈𝒆, & 𝒅𝒊𝒓𝒕𝒚 𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒌.
Shaken was absolutely amazing! I really enjoyed the first book Caged but I think Shaken is my new favorite. The banter between Wren and Sawyer is just perfection. If you enjoy a steamy enemies to lovers, you need to read this book.
Their internal dialogue was a delight. I was laughing out loud at their thoughts about each other.
𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒎𝒆, 𝒔𝒖𝒅𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔, 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒑𝒚 𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒐𝒔𝒂𝒖𝒓𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒔.
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌?
—-
𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒌𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉, 𝒔𝒂𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒔𝒊𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒌𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒎𝒂𝒏. 𝑰’𝒎 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒚 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒗𝒊𝒐𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝑯𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒄𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒄 𝒐𝒂𝒕𝒉. 𝑺𝒕𝒖𝒑𝒊𝒅 𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒄𝒔.
Wren and Sawyer have known each other since they were kids and have been enemies ever since. When Wren finally moves back home after a decade away and unexpectedly becomes Sawyer’s neighbor, they call a truce…a very steamy truce. Sawyer is fire in the bedroom 😮💨
“𝑵𝒐 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈. 𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒕𝒐𝒐 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒆. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒄𝒚. 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
“𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒆𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒎𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒉 𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒑𝒖𝒔𝒔𝒚.” 𝑰 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒍 𝒕𝒐𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐲.
Wren has trouble loosening up and Sawyer just wants to see her let go. I thought Wren was a really great FMC - she is sarcastic, independent, and struggles to show vulnerability. Sawyer is protective, dominant (but not an alphahole), and caring. I really loved seeing their relationship change and grow.
Overall, this was a 5 star ⭐️ read for me! I loved the characters, their story, and the spice. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes/themes: 𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔, 𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒍𝒅𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒆𝒔, 𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓, 𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒃𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒇𝒊𝒕𝒔, 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚, 𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒈𝒆, & 𝒅𝒊𝒓𝒕𝒚 𝒕𝒂𝒍𝒌.
Shaken was absolutely amazing! I really enjoyed the first book Caged but I think Shaken is my new favorite. The banter between Wren and Sawyer is just perfection. If you enjoy a steamy enemies to lovers, you need to read this book.
Their internal dialogue was a delight. I was laughing out loud at their thoughts about each other.
𝑺𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒄𝒌𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒎𝒆, 𝒔𝒖𝒅𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔, 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒄𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒑𝒚 𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒐𝒔𝒂𝒖𝒓𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒔.
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌?
—-
𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒌𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉, 𝒔𝒂𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒔𝒊𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒌𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒎𝒂𝒏. 𝑰’𝒎 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒚 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒗𝒊𝒐𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝑯𝒊𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒄𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒄 𝒐𝒂𝒕𝒉. 𝑺𝒕𝒖𝒑𝒊𝒅 𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒄𝒔.
Wren and Sawyer have known each other since they were kids and have been enemies ever since. When Wren finally moves back home after a decade away and unexpectedly becomes Sawyer’s neighbor, they call a truce…a very steamy truce. Sawyer is fire in the bedroom 😮💨
“𝑵𝒐 𝒌𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈. 𝑰𝒕’𝒔 𝒕𝒐𝒐 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒆. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒄𝒚. 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
“𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒆𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒎𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒉 𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒑𝒖𝒔𝒔𝒚.” 𝑰 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒍 𝒕𝒐𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒉𝒆𝒓, 𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐲.
Wren has trouble loosening up and Sawyer just wants to see her let go. I thought Wren was a really great FMC - she is sarcastic, independent, and struggles to show vulnerability. Sawyer is protective, dominant (but not an alphahole), and caring. I really loved seeing their relationship change and grow.
Overall, this was a 5 star ⭐️ read for me! I loved the characters, their story, and the spice. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
March 27, 2023
Shaken was just what I needed! This enemies-to-lovers story involving former childhood friends shows how thin the line between love & hate really is. The banter between Sawyer and Wren was perfection!!! The simmering passion between the two jumps off the page. Their push and pull is oh so entertaining. Their chemistry is scorching hot! Sawyer and Wren might be Bella Matthews’ spiciest couple yet. I won’t be able to look at a dandelion in the same way again.
In addition to the deliciousness that is Sawyer & Wren, there's the back and forth among the Kingston family members. These well-intentioned meddling siblings are laugh out loud funny.
I read Shaken in a matter of hours because I couldn't put it down. I loved Sawyer and Wren individually and as a couple. Shaken was a 5⭐️ read for me!
In addition to the deliciousness that is Sawyer & Wren, there's the back and forth among the Kingston family members. These well-intentioned meddling siblings are laugh out loud funny.
I read Shaken in a matter of hours because I couldn't put it down. I loved Sawyer and Wren individually and as a couple. Shaken was a 5⭐️ read for me!
June 11, 2023
Wren and Sawyer have known each other since they were kids, but they're not friends more like rivals. They keep upping one another and constantly bicker whenever they're in the same vicinity.
After spending 10 years away from their hometown, Wren was called by her mother and offered a position as a partner in her mother's hospital. Which she gladly took, she's had enough of being away from her family and this job will help her to get closer to them. The same day she moved in, she found out that Sawyer, her sworn enemy, is the owner of her apartment and apparently her new neighbor.
Sawyer likes to aggravate Wren every chance he gets. He has been in love with her since they were 16, but since they already hated each other he never got a chance with her. Sawyer was never portrayed as a player, in fact he's been celibate for 2 years already in the story. He's been carrying a torch for Wren for so long, and that made me swoon over him a little.
Wren has been a hard worker ever since she went to college moreso now that she's a doctor. The people around her who also cares for her, keeps telling her to loosen up a little. Her life revolves around the hospital and her apartment. Got fed up with people telling her to enjoy herself, she did something out of the ordinary. She agreed to have an enemies-with-benefits situation with Sawyer when he propositioned her.
It was fun reading them argue most of the book, they both give as good as they get. Behind Sawyer's smug confidence and constant provocations to Wren is a head over heels in love guy for most of his life. As for Wren, for someone so smart she was really dense with the intentions of Sawyer. But when he laid it all out in front of her and she overcome her fears, they fit so perfectly with each other.
Overall, I had fun reading this. The connection they had even when they were young is so palpable and that only shows even more with the sexual tension between them most especially when they argue. The steamy scenes were also hot, but the aftercare of Sawyer made it even hotter and Wren being open and honest was so endearing to read.
This is my first book from this author, definitely won't be my last. Off to the Jace's book. ☺️
After spending 10 years away from their hometown, Wren was called by her mother and offered a position as a partner in her mother's hospital. Which she gladly took, she's had enough of being away from her family and this job will help her to get closer to them. The same day she moved in, she found out that Sawyer, her sworn enemy, is the owner of her apartment and apparently her new neighbor.
Sawyer likes to aggravate Wren every chance he gets. He has been in love with her since they were 16, but since they already hated each other he never got a chance with her. Sawyer was never portrayed as a player, in fact he's been celibate for 2 years already in the story. He's been carrying a torch for Wren for so long, and that made me swoon over him a little.
Wren has been a hard worker ever since she went to college moreso now that she's a doctor. The people around her who also cares for her, keeps telling her to loosen up a little. Her life revolves around the hospital and her apartment. Got fed up with people telling her to enjoy herself, she did something out of the ordinary. She agreed to have an enemies-with-benefits situation with Sawyer when he propositioned her.
It was fun reading them argue most of the book, they both give as good as they get. Behind Sawyer's smug confidence and constant provocations to Wren is a head over heels in love guy for most of his life. As for Wren, for someone so smart she was really dense with the intentions of Sawyer. But when he laid it all out in front of her and she overcome her fears, they fit so perfectly with each other.
Overall, I had fun reading this. The connection they had even when they were young is so palpable and that only shows even more with the sexual tension between them most especially when they argue. The steamy scenes were also hot, but the aftercare of Sawyer made it even hotter and Wren being open and honest was so endearing to read.
This is my first book from this author, definitely won't be my last. Off to the Jace's book. ☺️
February 17, 2023
Sawyer and Wren have been at each others throat since they were kids. When she graduated from high school she ran to the other side of the country for college and med school and never looked back. Now that she has finished her residency she is eager to come home and join her mother's practice. She is looking to being around her family and close friends again. She is not looking forward to the that Sawyer is her new neighbor. He runs a night club and she is a doctor with crazy hours - it should be easy for them to avoid each other. Right?
Sawyer and Wren were so much fun. I adored their bickering and banter so stinking much. Their snark was so perfect. I couldn't get enough of them. Then when the give in they are kindle-melting fire! Dandelion! IYKYK And of course we have the Kingston family who is a whole character in and of themselves. Their co-dependent relationship is hilarious and amazing all at once. I live for the Kingston family conversations. My boy Jace is next and I know he has some secrets that just might break me. Another solid read that I consumed in one sitting.
Sawyer and Wren were so much fun. I adored their bickering and banter so stinking much. Their snark was so perfect. I couldn't get enough of them. Then when the give in they are kindle-melting fire! Dandelion! IYKYK And of course we have the Kingston family who is a whole character in and of themselves. Their co-dependent relationship is hilarious and amazing all at once. I live for the Kingston family conversations. My boy Jace is next and I know he has some secrets that just might break me. Another solid read that I consumed in one sitting.
August 15, 2023
4.5⭐️
I Love Sawyer🔥 Sawyer and Wren are definitely one of my favorites. This was so good!
I Love Sawyer🔥 Sawyer and Wren are definitely one of my favorites. This was so good!
February 11, 2023
Ohh man!!! This is my favorite troupe. Enemies to lovers ! Oof so good ! Sawyer and Wren are everything! Their story is just perfect , it has the perfect amount of fight and arguing ! And I love the fact they have known eachother their whole lives! Sawyer is my favorite Kingston! I can not wait for Jace though. This story literally consumed my night! I couldn't put it down 5 stars is a given for me! I loved seeing Maddie and Hudson again and all the rest! This is one of my favorite families!!
February 15, 2023
“If I were trying to romance you, you’d know it. And you’d like it.”
Oh my … sweet sigh. I’m still feeling the book high from Shaken, an explosive and enchanting enemies-to-lovers romance. I’m still breathless and burning from this book whose hero and heroine lit me on fire! The heartwarming writing and charming characters quickly carved their way into my heart, seducing every part of me. The whole Kingston clan is crush-worthy and I love them all.
Set in the lakeside suburbs of Philadelphia , Shaken is an enemies-to-lovers romance featuring another beloved Kingston brother and the woman who brings him knees. Toeing the fine line between love and hate, this heart-fluttering saga of soulmates and second chances is simply irresistible. The delicious tension dripping off of Wren and Sawyer and the blazing banter were my undoing. This hero and heroine are full of fire, and I couldn’t help but feel the undeniable connection of these soulmates.
I couldn’t stop smiling and smoldering and swooning over Shaken, a fun, fire-hot and feel-worthy romance that kept me turning the pages. This potent hit of heat, humor, and heart was my addiction. I was complete mush over this romance … a butterfly-fluttering, toe-curling, heart-hitting gem!
💋💋💋💋💋 steamy and dreamy kisses
➡️ https://amzn.to/3I13q0C
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
Oh my … sweet sigh. I’m still feeling the book high from Shaken, an explosive and enchanting enemies-to-lovers romance. I’m still breathless and burning from this book whose hero and heroine lit me on fire! The heartwarming writing and charming characters quickly carved their way into my heart, seducing every part of me. The whole Kingston clan is crush-worthy and I love them all.
Set in the lakeside suburbs of Philadelphia , Shaken is an enemies-to-lovers romance featuring another beloved Kingston brother and the woman who brings him knees. Toeing the fine line between love and hate, this heart-fluttering saga of soulmates and second chances is simply irresistible. The delicious tension dripping off of Wren and Sawyer and the blazing banter were my undoing. This hero and heroine are full of fire, and I couldn’t help but feel the undeniable connection of these soulmates.
I couldn’t stop smiling and smoldering and swooning over Shaken, a fun, fire-hot and feel-worthy romance that kept me turning the pages. This potent hit of heat, humor, and heart was my addiction. I was complete mush over this romance … a butterfly-fluttering, toe-curling, heart-hitting gem!
💋💋💋💋💋 steamy and dreamy kisses
➡️ https://amzn.to/3I13q0C
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
February 21, 2023
I've been waiting to read about Sawyer for a while now, and the brother who's been an enigma to us all is so freaking sweet!! He's still trying to find his place on the family, and he actually has a brilliant idea for how he can make a name for himself outside of his family name as well. Plus the girl he loves to hate moved back to town and lives right next door, so what more could he ask for?
Wren has been very focused and career oriented since she graduated high school and left this town behind her. She's now partners with her mom, who is an OB as well, and is ready to get started on making a difference in the community as well as being close to her parents again. Little did she know though, that in doing all this, she would be in direct fire of the one person who gets underneath her skin like no other-- and the one who has always just seen her for who she really is.
I loved how Sawyer never hated Wren, and when Wren realized how she's been wrongly blaming him for something he didn't even do, her walls immediately came down and they just had such a beautiful connection. All that snark and banter was still there, but they were just on the same team for a change! I loved watching them both grow into themselves and each other, as well as the awesome cameos from precious couples. I can't wait for more in this series!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
Wren has been very focused and career oriented since she graduated high school and left this town behind her. She's now partners with her mom, who is an OB as well, and is ready to get started on making a difference in the community as well as being close to her parents again. Little did she know though, that in doing all this, she would be in direct fire of the one person who gets underneath her skin like no other-- and the one who has always just seen her for who she really is.
I loved how Sawyer never hated Wren, and when Wren realized how she's been wrongly blaming him for something he didn't even do, her walls immediately came down and they just had such a beautiful connection. All that snark and banter was still there, but they were just on the same team for a change! I loved watching them both grow into themselves and each other, as well as the awesome cameos from precious couples. I can't wait for more in this series!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
February 18, 2023
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
I have always loved the Kroydon Hills Kingstons, and this book continues that streak.
For as long as Sawyer has known Wren and for reasons unknown, she has hated him with the fire of a thousand suns. Then she ran off to go to medical school. Now she is back in town and in Sawyer's mind 24/7.
Keeping him out of Wren's mind should be easy if she didn't live next door to him. A yard and a fence are not enough to keep the tension at bay, so when they caved to have a physical-only relationship, it comes as no surprise to everyone else but them that their connection grows beyond the bedroom.
It is always great to visit Kroydon Hills, and with this read, I grow more and more in love with the Kingston clan. I love the connection among the siblings and their extended families. The group chats are a guaranteed entertainment, and who doesn't stan a family who always has each other's backs?
Sawyer and Wren's tension-filled chemistry is sizzling. Bella Matthew did a phenomenal job of ramping up the delicious burn between these two, and when the spice arrives, it left me fanning myself.
While I highly recommend reading Matthew's entire collection of Kroydon Hils, this can also be read as a standalone.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Bella Matthews for providing an ARC. **
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
I have always loved the Kroydon Hills Kingstons, and this book continues that streak.
For as long as Sawyer has known Wren and for reasons unknown, she has hated him with the fire of a thousand suns. Then she ran off to go to medical school. Now she is back in town and in Sawyer's mind 24/7.
Keeping him out of Wren's mind should be easy if she didn't live next door to him. A yard and a fence are not enough to keep the tension at bay, so when they caved to have a physical-only relationship, it comes as no surprise to everyone else but them that their connection grows beyond the bedroom.
It is always great to visit Kroydon Hills, and with this read, I grow more and more in love with the Kingston clan. I love the connection among the siblings and their extended families. The group chats are a guaranteed entertainment, and who doesn't stan a family who always has each other's backs?
Sawyer and Wren's tension-filled chemistry is sizzling. Bella Matthew did a phenomenal job of ramping up the delicious burn between these two, and when the spice arrives, it left me fanning myself.
While I highly recommend reading Matthew's entire collection of Kroydon Hils, this can also be read as a standalone.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to Bella Matthews for providing an ARC. **
October 26, 2023
Sawyer Kingston the Bar owner and business adventure Kingston.
Ren the good girl who worked her butt off in medical school and came back home to run a practice!
The chemistry between these two was phenomenal! I really enjoyed them and their story.
Read if you like
☆enemies to lovers
☆known each other since childhood
☆Cute puppy characters
☆close proximity
☆Spice
I listened to this on audio, and the narrators did a fantastic job. I enjoyed both voices.
Overall ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/ 5
Spice 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶/ 5
Audio 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧/ 5
Ren the good girl who worked her butt off in medical school and came back home to run a practice!
The chemistry between these two was phenomenal! I really enjoyed them and their story.
Read if you like
☆enemies to lovers
☆known each other since childhood
☆Cute puppy characters
☆close proximity
☆Spice
I listened to this on audio, and the narrators did a fantastic job. I enjoyed both voices.
Overall ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/ 5
Spice 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶/ 5
Audio 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧/ 5
November 3, 2025
This was an enemies to lovers, second chance romance... two tropes I love so much. I didn't quite feel the chemistry between these two honestly and I feel like they got together really quickly. It just felt like a little something was missing. I needed more depth to the story, I think.
🎧Audio:🎧
This was a dual narration by Gabriel Spires & Heather Firth. I enjoyed both of them. They brought the characters to life so easily. They are a great duo and I love listening to them.
🎧Audio:🎧
This was a dual narration by Gabriel Spires & Heather Firth. I enjoyed both of them. They brought the characters to life so easily. They are a great duo and I love listening to them.
August 24, 2025
brb gonna go dye my hair so sawyer kingston can call me red 🤭🫶🏻😩🫦
August 12, 2024
Bella Mathews sure can write a captivating book! Cute, quick read.
February 12, 2023
OMG🥵🥵 I have been waiting for Sawyer and he definitely did not disappoint. I love how the characters flow from one book to the others keeping you involved in the lives of all the Kingstons.
While each book is its own, reading in order helps keep everything in perspective. I definitely will not look at dandelions the same ever again 💛💛
Bella Matthews created a perfect enemies to lovers relationship with Sawyer & Wren.
While each book is its own, reading in order helps keep everything in perspective. I definitely will not look at dandelions the same ever again 💛💛
Bella Matthews created a perfect enemies to lovers relationship with Sawyer & Wren.
August 25, 2024
Sawyer & Wren (Red)
⭐️/4 🌶️/2 ❣️🐾
⭐️/4 🌶️/2 ❣️🐾
December 29, 2023
» You're not my husband, Kingston. You're not my boyfriend. You're not even my friend.«
» What if I told you I should be?«
★ ★ ★
❥ 𝑾𝒓𝒆𝒏
Adored her. She was intelligent, confident and quick-witted. I like female characters with some spirit.
❥ 𝑺𝒂𝒘𝒚𝒆𝒓
He was so perfect for Wren. He‘s cheeky, assertive and has great humor.
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
I enjoyed this story more than the previous book.
Again there was a lot of family time (too much in my opinion) but I mostly skipped these unnecessary scenes.
Wren and Sawyer have so much tension and I liked their relationship. They constantly gave each other shit, this was so funny. The plot twist was kinda mindblowing (the reason Wren hates Sawyer) and I didn‘t see that one coming.
I‘m looking forward to the next book in this series.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓
plot: 3/5
spice: 2/5
humor: 4/5
couple/tension: 4/5
world building: 5/5
happy end?: yes
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
possessive and protective hero, forced proximity, neighbour romance, enemies to lovers, childhood enemies, hate with benefits
𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲
ages: 27 (Wren) and 28 (Sawyer)
cheating: no
sharing: no
kinks: breath play, mild bondage
» What if I told you I should be?«
★ ★ ★
❥ 𝑾𝒓𝒆𝒏
Adored her. She was intelligent, confident and quick-witted. I like female characters with some spirit.
❥ 𝑺𝒂𝒘𝒚𝒆𝒓
He was so perfect for Wren. He‘s cheeky, assertive and has great humor.
✥ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌
I enjoyed this story more than the previous book.
Again there was a lot of family time (too much in my opinion) but I mostly skipped these unnecessary scenes.
Wren and Sawyer have so much tension and I liked their relationship. They constantly gave each other shit, this was so funny. The plot twist was kinda mindblowing (the reason Wren hates Sawyer) and I didn‘t see that one coming.
I‘m looking forward to the next book in this series.
𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝟓
plot: 3/5
spice: 2/5
humor: 4/5
couple/tension: 4/5
world building: 5/5
happy end?: yes
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
possessive and protective hero, forced proximity, neighbour romance, enemies to lovers, childhood enemies, hate with benefits
𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲
ages: 27 (Wren) and 28 (Sawyer)
cheating: no
sharing: no
kinks: breath play, mild bondage
February 28, 2023
DNF
Ok here we go. Just couldn't with this book. They all were just so overly dramatic. He was frustrated with his brother the moment he walked in. Complaining he was talking in riddles. "I'm not on my way into the office. I've already been there, and now I'm here." How is any of that a riddle?!? She wasn't any better. You grew up in that grown yet you act all embarrassed when you run into people you grew up with!?! No, just no. Sorry but I can't do grown adults acting like high schoolers. Good luck to any who can read through this. On to the next.
Ok here we go. Just couldn't with this book. They all were just so overly dramatic. He was frustrated with his brother the moment he walked in. Complaining he was talking in riddles. "I'm not on my way into the office. I've already been there, and now I'm here." How is any of that a riddle?!? She wasn't any better. You grew up in that grown yet you act all embarrassed when you run into people you grew up with!?! No, just no. Sorry but I can't do grown adults acting like high schoolers. Good luck to any who can read through this. On to the next.
February 15, 2023
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Stand-alone: Yes**
Author: Bella Matthews
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 3/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Sawyer and Wren
Trope(s): Frenemies to Lovers, Rom-Com, Forced Proximity, Secret Arrangement
“I’ve never hated you, Red. I’ve always loved firing you up, but that was because you came alive and out of that perfect little shell you constructed for yourself each time you reacted. We pushed each other to be better for years. You may have acted like you hated me, but I never believed it. I still don’t. And it never came from a place of hate for me.” ……
Shaken is Book Two in the Defiant Kings Interconnected Standalone Series. Her series books can be read independently of one another, but this codependent family needs all of your attention. Seriously, with each book my obsession grows. I’m not quite sure what I will do when it ends. I’m not above begging Bella for next-gen books. The angst is low, but the tension is real in this book. Sawyer is delicious and dominant. And Wren has got her life on lock, but needs the FUN put back into her life. All the goading, torturing, and basically driving each other crazy outside of the bedroom can only point to one thing- full on magic in the bedroom. Yes, please. Both of them are at crossroads personally. Each dealing with changes in their lives. They become more than outlets for one another. Someone to escape with. Sawyer has the capability to get Wren out of her own head. In the most delicious ways.
Quinn left Philadelphia at seventeen to attend college in California. She has returned to her hometown ten years later to join her mother’s practice as a full partner. And, on day one finds out that the man who has always brought out the worst in her lives across the street, Sawyer Kingston.
Quinn and Sawyer have known each other for the majority of their lives. They have always had a rivalry. They put the hate aside one night six years ago when comforting a grieving Sawyer was the only option.
Sawyer has always been somewhat obsessed with Wren. Time hasn’t changed just how combustible they are together. So, when everyone around her keeps telling her to loosen up and Sawyer is ready and willing, she jumps on. She has a few rules going in, Sawyer has one, Wren does what he says, when he says.
Wren has spent so much time hating Sawyer that she is not sure how to stop. When she turns to her sister because she needs help working out her feelings, Wren learns that she is not the only one Sawyer has protected over the years. And, the truth sets her world spinning.
Stand-alone: Yes**
Author: Bella Matthews
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 3/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Sawyer and Wren
Trope(s): Frenemies to Lovers, Rom-Com, Forced Proximity, Secret Arrangement
“I’ve never hated you, Red. I’ve always loved firing you up, but that was because you came alive and out of that perfect little shell you constructed for yourself each time you reacted. We pushed each other to be better for years. You may have acted like you hated me, but I never believed it. I still don’t. And it never came from a place of hate for me.” ……
Shaken is Book Two in the Defiant Kings Interconnected Standalone Series. Her series books can be read independently of one another, but this codependent family needs all of your attention. Seriously, with each book my obsession grows. I’m not quite sure what I will do when it ends. I’m not above begging Bella for next-gen books. The angst is low, but the tension is real in this book. Sawyer is delicious and dominant. And Wren has got her life on lock, but needs the FUN put back into her life. All the goading, torturing, and basically driving each other crazy outside of the bedroom can only point to one thing- full on magic in the bedroom. Yes, please. Both of them are at crossroads personally. Each dealing with changes in their lives. They become more than outlets for one another. Someone to escape with. Sawyer has the capability to get Wren out of her own head. In the most delicious ways.
Quinn left Philadelphia at seventeen to attend college in California. She has returned to her hometown ten years later to join her mother’s practice as a full partner. And, on day one finds out that the man who has always brought out the worst in her lives across the street, Sawyer Kingston.
Quinn and Sawyer have known each other for the majority of their lives. They have always had a rivalry. They put the hate aside one night six years ago when comforting a grieving Sawyer was the only option.
Sawyer has always been somewhat obsessed with Wren. Time hasn’t changed just how combustible they are together. So, when everyone around her keeps telling her to loosen up and Sawyer is ready and willing, she jumps on. She has a few rules going in, Sawyer has one, Wren does what he says, when he says.
Wren has spent so much time hating Sawyer that she is not sure how to stop. When she turns to her sister because she needs help working out her feelings, Wren learns that she is not the only one Sawyer has protected over the years. And, the truth sets her world spinning.
February 2, 2024
Aw this was such a fun read!
The writing was nice, easy to read and follow, even though at first I was a bit confused when it came to the characters’ conversation(s). There was no indication whatsoever of who was talking to whom, most of the time I had to go back and reread the dialogue just to figure out whose line was it.
Here’s a little example:
When I first read this paragraph, my brain farted. If I hadn’t read the synopsis and paid attention to what’d been happening so far, I would have thought this was a back and forth conversation and the last line was from Sawyer, aka our MMC. Well I did tho and was so confused that he suddenly became an MMA fighter lol.
Or maybe it was just me, but after a while I finally got the hang of it so yay me I guess.
Anyway, the storyline flowed pretty well with lots of light and engaging details and events.
The chemistry between Sawyer and Wren was really good. I love their relationship development, their banters, their push and pull, their tension, the way they slowly let their guard down and just be comfortable around each other was perfect, immaculate. And I love it a lot more that they still bicker with each other after they moved from being enemies to lovers, gah delicious!
Also, the family dynamics, or more specifically the Kingston dynamics, were amazing. Each and every member of the family was so likable and charming in own their own way that added another light to this book. In fact, I was so looking forward to seeing our 2 mains interact with literally any member of the family. I really love them all and am glad that they appeared a lot throughout the book because I think it wouldn’t be complete without all the members.
Overall, this was a nice and lighthearted read, I enjoyed it a lot and had a really good time devouring this. Love the bonus epilogue btw, super cuteeeee!!!
The writing was nice, easy to read and follow, even though at first I was a bit confused when it came to the characters’ conversation(s). There was no indication whatsoever of who was talking to whom, most of the time I had to go back and reread the dialogue just to figure out whose line was it.
Here’s a little example:
A shit-eating-grin spreads across Hud’s face. “Guess it slipped my mind.”
“Fucker.” Hudson and I are only a year a part. But he’s always played the part of the annoying younger brother like a pro. “A little warning would have been nice.”
“I’ve been telling you for months, we need to hire someone to handle this shit full-time. Maybe now you’ll listen.” He grabs a green protein shake from the fridge and chugs it.
“Dude. I’m an MMA fighter, and you own the hottest bar in the city of Philadelphia…”
When I first read this paragraph, my brain farted. If I hadn’t read the synopsis and paid attention to what’d been happening so far, I would have thought this was a back and forth conversation and the last line was from Sawyer, aka our MMC. Well I did tho and was so confused that he suddenly became an MMA fighter lol.
Or maybe it was just me, but after a while I finally got the hang of it so yay me I guess.
Anyway, the storyline flowed pretty well with lots of light and engaging details and events.
The chemistry between Sawyer and Wren was really good. I love their relationship development, their banters, their push and pull, their tension, the way they slowly let their guard down and just be comfortable around each other was perfect, immaculate. And I love it a lot more that they still bicker with each other after they moved from being enemies to lovers, gah delicious!
Also, the family dynamics, or more specifically the Kingston dynamics, were amazing. Each and every member of the family was so likable and charming in own their own way that added another light to this book. In fact, I was so looking forward to seeing our 2 mains interact with literally any member of the family. I really love them all and am glad that they appeared a lot throughout the book because I think it wouldn’t be complete without all the members.
Overall, this was a nice and lighthearted read, I enjoyed it a lot and had a really good time devouring this. Love the bonus epilogue btw, super cuteeeee!!!
February 17, 2023
This is an enemies to lovers, childhood friends romance and is part of the Defiant Kings series.
Sawyer and Wren are so good together and the banter that is between them both is epic. These two have known each other a long time since they were children and when Wren finally moves back home after being away for a few years she doesn't expect what she gets, and that's being Sawyers neighbour. There has always been something between them both and now that has just been kicked up a level.
I loved reading this book and the love story was beautiful. I love the chemistry, the banter and the steam between them both and my heart felt for Wren at times too. I loved Sawyer and his protectiveness of her and once you start reading about these two you won't be able to stop. I loved the story line and it flows throughout. I highly recommend that everyone reads this book.
#booklover #readers #readersofinstagram #romancereadersofinstagram #bookreviews #bookoftheday #contemporaryromance #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #kingsofkroydonhills #enemiestolovers
#authorsofinstagram #authorlife #bookstagram #authorsofig #restlesskings #defiantkings #bellamatthewsstreetteam #bookblogger #reviewshelpauthors #bookbloggersoftiktok #bookrecs📚
Sawyer and Wren are so good together and the banter that is between them both is epic. These two have known each other a long time since they were children and when Wren finally moves back home after being away for a few years she doesn't expect what she gets, and that's being Sawyers neighbour. There has always been something between them both and now that has just been kicked up a level.
I loved reading this book and the love story was beautiful. I love the chemistry, the banter and the steam between them both and my heart felt for Wren at times too. I loved Sawyer and his protectiveness of her and once you start reading about these two you won't be able to stop. I loved the story line and it flows throughout. I highly recommend that everyone reads this book.
#booklover #readers #readersofinstagram #romancereadersofinstagram #bookreviews #bookoftheday #contemporaryromance #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #kingsofkroydonhills #enemiestolovers
#authorsofinstagram #authorlife #bookstagram #authorsofig #restlesskings #defiantkings #bellamatthewsstreetteam #bookblogger #reviewshelpauthors #bookbloggersoftiktok #bookrecs📚
November 2, 2023
4.5/5 - Sawyer and Wren have been enemies for as long as she can remember. When she graduated high school she moved to the other side of the country, but is now back to join her mother's medical practice. She is looking forward to setting down roots back at home and reconnecting with her friends. She however, is not pleased that her next door neighbour is Sawyer Kingston. It should be easy to avoid Sawyer, except his cute dog keeps finding his way to her yard, and he may be finding his way into her heart.
Shaken was awesome. I enjoyed Caged, the first in this series, but thought this one was great. Wren and Sawyer were steamy enemies to lovers perfection. Their banter, and back and forth was pure perfection. They have so much tension between them that you just want to soak it up. The characters were awesome and we even got more of the other Kingston's which I love reading.
Shaken does a great job of showing the thin line that exists between love and hate. It was an on fire romance that kept me turning the pages, unable to put it down. This is pure enemies to lovers goodness.
Read if you like: enemies to lovers, childhood enemies, friends/enemies with benefit
Shaken was awesome. I enjoyed Caged, the first in this series, but thought this one was great. Wren and Sawyer were steamy enemies to lovers perfection. Their banter, and back and forth was pure perfection. They have so much tension between them that you just want to soak it up. The characters were awesome and we even got more of the other Kingston's which I love reading.
Shaken does a great job of showing the thin line that exists between love and hate. It was an on fire romance that kept me turning the pages, unable to put it down. This is pure enemies to lovers goodness.
Read if you like: enemies to lovers, childhood enemies, friends/enemies with benefit
February 28, 2023
LOVE the banter in this book and Bella knows how to write them brilliantly & feel natural in that moment from the lover to the family moments. Wren is friends with the family
Now to the love story of Wren & Sawyer who are old childhood friends and they have always been enemies...but in recent events they become something more,Lovers 🔥
Sawyer calls Wren Red abd Wren calls him Kingston (and a few others) "Eat your heart out, asshole."
Wren learns that he new neighbour is Sawyer with his BEAUTIFUL bulldog Zeus. Who is a very funny and reminds me with my dogs 🐾 Dogs are the best!
Both get use to be neighbours and their enemies to lovers story feel just sweet, shy and innocent caus etgey don't know what to do with the chemistry they have. Sawyer makes the first move;
"Because I don't like you," I whisper. "Now tell me what I'm suppose to be arguing with you about."
Yes they argue alot but that's how they cope with the bound they have and thos argue helps eaxh other to find what they need to do with life decisions. And Sawyer has a decision to make with work...no spoilers
This is a perfect read if you need a pick me up and a love story that will make you smile. And the side characters are brilliant too. I really want to know Lenny & Bash story because, Lenny loved teasing Sawyer over a smile he had for a certain girl😉
☆MUST READ & FAV☆
Now to the love story of Wren & Sawyer who are old childhood friends and they have always been enemies...but in recent events they become something more,Lovers 🔥
Sawyer calls Wren Red abd Wren calls him Kingston (and a few others) "Eat your heart out, asshole."
Wren learns that he new neighbour is Sawyer with his BEAUTIFUL bulldog Zeus. Who is a very funny and reminds me with my dogs 🐾 Dogs are the best!
Both get use to be neighbours and their enemies to lovers story feel just sweet, shy and innocent caus etgey don't know what to do with the chemistry they have. Sawyer makes the first move;
"Because I don't like you," I whisper. "Now tell me what I'm suppose to be arguing with you about."
Yes they argue alot but that's how they cope with the bound they have and thos argue helps eaxh other to find what they need to do with life decisions. And Sawyer has a decision to make with work...no spoilers
This is a perfect read if you need a pick me up and a love story that will make you smile. And the side characters are brilliant too. I really want to know Lenny & Bash story because, Lenny loved teasing Sawyer over a smile he had for a certain girl😉
☆MUST READ & FAV☆
February 15, 2023
Wow, I devour every book Bella Matthews has written. The characters and story line just draw me in and have me on the edge of me seat waiting to see what will happen. Sawyer, we have gotten to know him throughout the different books and man, he will have you hooked! He is known for making successful business and being his own boss. Wren is a doctor and finally back home, but never expected to be Sawyer’s neighbor. These two have known each other all their lives and yet, Wren always hates Sawyer. As these two figure out how to be neighbors and maybe more, we start to figure out what happened between these two all those years ago. Sawyer starts to realize what he wants in his life now and that means getting Wren to see past all the hate and what could be. Wren and Sawyer give us the ultimate enemies to lovers tale that will have you hoping they figure things out before all the hate destroys them both. I loved this book and all of the craziness of the Kingstons! I cannot wait for Jace’s story!
February 16, 2023
I think I’m a little late to the Kingston family but I can’t wait to go back and fill in all the gaps now that I’ve met them.
🤍 Enemies to Lovers
🤍 Enemies with Benefits
🤍 Massive Family
🤍 Meant to Be
Sawyer and Wren have been competitive frenemies their whole lives. Always trying to one up each other. Ten years ago, tragedy struck and Wren left. Now she’s back and these two are magnets. They can’t seem to stay away from each other.
These two are a perfect fit. Even if they don’t realize it. I enjoyed the push and pull. Their chemistry and attraction was amazing. I love how they fight 😆😆 and the dandelions 🥹
“𝙰𝚗𝚐𝚎𝚛 𝚙𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚜 𝚘𝚏𝚏 𝚖𝚢 𝚐𝚒𝚛𝚕 𝚒𝚗 𝚠𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚜. 𝙽𝚘𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚜𝚑𝚎'𝚜 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚎. 𝙽𝚘𝚝 𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚍. 𝙽𝚘𝚝 𝚢𝚎𝚝. 𝙸'𝚖 𝚐𝚘𝚗𝚗𝚊 𝚏𝚒𝚡 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚕 𝚜𝚘𝚘𝚗.”
It’s also really nice to read about adults. I absolutely love the Kingston family and their wild, intrusive dynamics. It makes me want to be apart of it.
4.5
🤍 Enemies to Lovers
🤍 Enemies with Benefits
🤍 Massive Family
🤍 Meant to Be
Sawyer and Wren have been competitive frenemies their whole lives. Always trying to one up each other. Ten years ago, tragedy struck and Wren left. Now she’s back and these two are magnets. They can’t seem to stay away from each other.
These two are a perfect fit. Even if they don’t realize it. I enjoyed the push and pull. Their chemistry and attraction was amazing. I love how they fight 😆😆 and the dandelions 🥹
“𝙰𝚗𝚐𝚎𝚛 𝚙𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚜 𝚘𝚏𝚏 𝚖𝚢 𝚐𝚒𝚛𝚕 𝚒𝚗 𝚠𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚜. 𝙽𝚘𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚜𝚑𝚎'𝚜 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚎. 𝙽𝚘𝚝 𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚍. 𝙽𝚘𝚝 𝚢𝚎𝚝. 𝙸'𝚖 𝚐𝚘𝚗𝚗𝚊 𝚏𝚒𝚡 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚕 𝚜𝚘𝚘𝚗.”
It’s also really nice to read about adults. I absolutely love the Kingston family and their wild, intrusive dynamics. It makes me want to be apart of it.
4.5
February 13, 2023
Mm mmm mmmmmmmmm 🥵
I love Sawyer and Wren - seriously, those two are adorable and funny and hot!
Childhood enemies - kinda! They have always pushed each other, anything they were doing, socially or academically, they constantly coed against each other. However if they needed anything, they were the first ones there - everyone but them knew they belonged together!
Now they're adults and back in the same place - can they move on from the arguments and admit there's more to them....
An excellent fun read, define enjoyed it and definitely recommend!
Roll on Jace's story - that guy has secrets!!....
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review.
I love Sawyer and Wren - seriously, those two are adorable and funny and hot!
Childhood enemies - kinda! They have always pushed each other, anything they were doing, socially or academically, they constantly coed against each other. However if they needed anything, they were the first ones there - everyone but them knew they belonged together!
Now they're adults and back in the same place - can they move on from the arguments and admit there's more to them....
An excellent fun read, define enjoyed it and definitely recommend!
Roll on Jace's story - that guy has secrets!!....
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review.
January 26, 2025
2.5 🌶️🌶️
Enemies to lovers! It’s been a while since I’ve read one of these. Was a lot of fun to dive into this series after being absent from it for a while.
Sawyer is enemies with Wren. But Wren actually hates Sawyer from what she believes happened between him and her sister (a car accident that started her drug addiction and had to amputate her foot).
They are enemies with benefits.
Wren learns from sister about what actually happened during the accident, and then she decides she can fall in love with Sawyer.
Enemies to lovers! It’s been a while since I’ve read one of these. Was a lot of fun to dive into this series after being absent from it for a while.
Sawyer is enemies with Wren. But Wren actually hates Sawyer from what she believes happened between him and her sister (a car accident that started her drug addiction and had to amputate her foot).
They are enemies with benefits.
Wren learns from sister about what actually happened during the accident, and then she decides she can fall in love with Sawyer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2023
I absolutely loved reading Sawyer and Wren's story! I have fallen in love with Bella's books and I'm glad I discovered her!
Sawyer and Wren have been childhood enemies up until they're adults. Wren finds herself in a predicament when she realizes who her neighbor is, Sawyer. She loathes Sawyer ever since an incident happened with her sister many years ago. With miscommunication and some details left untold to Wren, her hatred of Sawyer grows over the years. However, their push and pull, and being in close proximity to each, they begin to develop feelings for each. I love seeing their relationship develop and their chemistry was so explosive. I love the writing and the characters are wonderfully written. I can't wait for the next book with another Kingston sibling! Woo!
I highly recommend!
Sawyer and Wren have been childhood enemies up until they're adults. Wren finds herself in a predicament when she realizes who her neighbor is, Sawyer. She loathes Sawyer ever since an incident happened with her sister many years ago. With miscommunication and some details left untold to Wren, her hatred of Sawyer grows over the years. However, their push and pull, and being in close proximity to each, they begin to develop feelings for each. I love seeing their relationship develop and their chemistry was so explosive. I love the writing and the characters are wonderfully written. I can't wait for the next book with another Kingston sibling! Woo!
I highly recommend!
March 3, 2023
Shaken is book 2 in The Defiant Kings series.
This was super cute!!
Enemies to lovers/Childhood friends
Wren and Sawyer grew up together as their families are very entwined due to the fact their fathers were friends and in business together.
Sawyer has stock in King Corp, the family business and owns his own nightclub. Wren was across the county in medical school, to be an OBGYN like her mother.
She comes home and rents s house finding out her neighbor happens to be her enemy Sawyer.
The tension and chemistry with these two is delicious!
The banter is great! The family bonds I loved so much.
I loved it!!
This was super cute!!
Enemies to lovers/Childhood friends
Wren and Sawyer grew up together as their families are very entwined due to the fact their fathers were friends and in business together.
Sawyer has stock in King Corp, the family business and owns his own nightclub. Wren was across the county in medical school, to be an OBGYN like her mother.
She comes home and rents s house finding out her neighbor happens to be her enemy Sawyer.
The tension and chemistry with these two is delicious!
The banter is great! The family bonds I loved so much.
I loved it!!
May 20, 2023
Shaken (review)
This is probably the hottest book in the series. Sawyer and Wren had me in a chokehold. Their banter and their chemistry were everything. I couldn't stop reading. The way these two got on eachother's nerves but deep down cared is truly incredible. Sawyer's dirty mouth was chef's kiss and I adored how much it turned Wren on. Their steamy moments were truly mouthwatering and you could see how both knew how to worship and pleasure the other. The family dynamics once again were beautiful and I'm so here for it. Sawyer's soft side had me on my knees cause that man would do anything for Wren. I adored how Wren had her rules and how she enjoyed her time with him even if she hated him. They truly made an incredibly interesting and passionate couple. Their epilogues had me crying cause they were perfect!
Book by: Bella Matthews
Tropes:
• Childhood enemies to lovers
• Hate to love
• Found family
• Grumpy FMC x Sunshine MMC
• Possessive MMC
• Second chance
• Neighbors to lovers
• Enemies to lovers
My rating: 4,5/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 3,5/5 🔥
This is probably the hottest book in the series. Sawyer and Wren had me in a chokehold. Their banter and their chemistry were everything. I couldn't stop reading. The way these two got on eachother's nerves but deep down cared is truly incredible. Sawyer's dirty mouth was chef's kiss and I adored how much it turned Wren on. Their steamy moments were truly mouthwatering and you could see how both knew how to worship and pleasure the other. The family dynamics once again were beautiful and I'm so here for it. Sawyer's soft side had me on my knees cause that man would do anything for Wren. I adored how Wren had her rules and how she enjoyed her time with him even if she hated him. They truly made an incredibly interesting and passionate couple. Their epilogues had me crying cause they were perfect!
Book by: Bella Matthews
Tropes:
• Childhood enemies to lovers
• Hate to love
• Found family
• Grumpy FMC x Sunshine MMC
• Possessive MMC
• Second chance
• Neighbors to lovers
• Enemies to lovers
My rating: 4,5/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 3,5/5 🔥
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