Life at Bainbridge Hall is everything I feared it would be, yet these bastards have me in a choke hold. With each passing day, I struggle with my growing affection for them. The lines I drew in the beginning have begun to blur.
I should’ve left … back before feelings were involved. From the moment I met them, I was intrigued, but nothing about our situation is simple. Every time they touch me, another broken piece is mended. And now, everything I want is wrapped up in three unruly men.
One troubled brawler. One damaged heart. And one bleeding soul.
Bear. Duke. Mason.
The closer we become, the more I want to lean on their strength. But I can’t possibly burden them with the past that haunts me—even if they believe repairing my shattered pieces will make us whole. Bainbridge Hall. They may not be the villains of my nightmares, but they are definitely the bastards of my dreams. Bear is a 105,000+ word novel, the second book in the Bastards of Bainbridge Hall trilogy, centering around three men and one woman. MMFM
This trilogy contains dark elements, graphic content, and situations that some readers may be particularly sensitive to. If you have triggers or are remotely unsure, please contact me. I do have a list of content warnings available on my website. Also, be aware that I don't always know how a series will end or all the underlying secrets until they reveal themselves in the writing process.
Ya'll, these books just keep getting better and better!! So many secrets, corruption, betrayal, and non-stop action are headed your way and doesn't let up until the final page. I'm trying to come up with every theory possible on how this is all connected to one certain event and exactly who the big bad is, but all I can say is that July needs to hurry up!
I knew Bear was going to own my heart, but I really didn't expect to love him as fiercely as I do. He's the one out of this harem that has the most purest connection to Lennon, and he's most definitely her rock in this volatile world she's found herself in, and their passion is cranked up allllllllll the way. Seriously, this is one handed reading material for sure! But I love how much they just get one another, and I can't wait to watch their relationship continue to grow!
One person that really surprised me this book was Mason, especially given the events of the cliffy in book one. We see a more open and vulnerable side to him, and while he still has his struggles, he really is done chasing Lennon away, and instead embraces everything about her. They have such a beautiful relationship, and I adore how Lennon both understands and loves the broken parts of him, because they are the very same. I wasn't expecting him to get as close to a certain someone as he did, but I am all here for that development and can't see where Leila takes us!
As for Duke, he's definitely improved here, but there were times when I was still really angry with him. Dude gives major whiplash with his moods, and lashes out whenever someone gets close, but towards the end we get to see a softer side to him, and I just know he's going to bring down unholy hellfire to avenge the girl they all love (even if nobody as admitted it yet! *winks!*)
We also get to see the auction scene from this harems point of view, and let me tell you, it's CRAZY. That ending hurt my heart, but i cannot wait until we get our conclusion with Dukes book. I just know it's going to be epic!
If you haven't read this series yet, I highly recommend you start. I'm absolutely obsessed!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
Bear is probably my favourite character in this series, soft and sexy but also strong and dynamic, yes he’s my definition of a man. Lots of triggers so be warned, Great read a definite winner in my book
Maybe I've read too many dark romances.. because these boys... are so stupid and have no clue what's going on... they truly are just boys. It's pissing me off that they just do whatever their fathers say and do not question anything????. And they think there's cameras and bugs but they don't even check and carry on their conversations???. Idk they are just too stupid, maybe cos of Sheridan Anne and Tate james I have high expectations for the guys in RH but these guys do not meet those expectations
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Bear is book two of Leila James’ Ba$tards of Bainbridge Hall series. The books need to be read in order for maximum enjoyment.
The story picks up at the nail biting cliffhanger ending of Book One, Mason.
Lennon has been forced into an all male fraternity house at an exclusive college by her wicked stepfather. She is surrounded by guys who are not thrilled she’s there and others who watch her every move. She is haunted by dreams of an incident that remains elusively out of her reach. As she adjusts to her new life, she finds herself embroiled with the three heads of the house.
Bear (aptly named for this bruiser who is a sweetheart for his girl) is a football player who has a dark secret. Mason is an artist who has turbulent night terrors and emotions. Duke is the leader who has uncomfortable feelings for the stepsister he doesn’t really know. All three men are gorgeous, complex, and everything Lennon needs.
The chemistry in this book is scorching. Several of the characters face off with threats both emotional and physical. With so much opposing them, can the quartet form a lasting bond? Will matters be taken out of their hands by the sinister forces acting against them?
This was a fantastic read. Let me say that again: Epic plot and character development. I thought I had it bad for our three brooding alphaholes after book one but (sweet baby cheeses) this book is a tour de force of emotion and reader’s delight.
I freaking LOVED THIS BOOK! Intense, Gripping, and so incredibly Steamy. I literally didn't want to put Bear down for even a single second! These Bastards are a force to be reckoned with and they're definitely coming for my heart!
Right from the start, Leila draws you back into the dark and twisted Bainbridge world. As the drama, suspense, danger, and intrigue intensifies...you'll be left on the edge of your seat wondering just what will happen next! It's one hell of a ride and I am so HERE FOR IT!
I loved the growing relationships between Lennon, Bear, Duke, and Mason.There's a real, honest, and raw beauty in their individual connections that created some powerful and emotionally moving moments in the book. As an "ours", let's just say that this foursome is so freaking hot and will absolutely incinerate your Kindle! (Seriously, NO JOKE! And DADDY BEAR is ALL MINE! )🥵🔥🥵🔥
As I dive deeper into this series, I find myself completely captivated and utterly enthralled! I love the clues that keep me guessing and the secrets that are revealed. For me, it's what makes this story so incredibly fun and absolutely addictive! This is definitely my brand of book crack and I simply can't get enough!
After dropping her most EPIC cliffhanger to date, I'm literally DYING in anticipation for Duke’s book. While I have my theories, I have no idea how this story will end but you better believe I absolutely can't wait to find out!
If you are a lover of why choose and/or dark bully romance then this series is an absolute MUST READ! Get it on your TBR NOW! It's an incredible read you won't want to miss!
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions are my own *
Whatever magic Leila James binds with her words on these pages... I am here for it!!! Bear is the second book in the Bastards of Bainbridge Hall Trilogy. If you haven't read Mason first - I suggest you go read that right now. Again I say... with all things I have come to know of the fabulous Leila James her series needs to be read in order and the damn cliffhangers!! Need I say more.
What a ride. I knew it was going to be bumpy! I knew there would be incredible twists and turns. What a rush. So much goes on and yet you have so many questions that you need answers to. I am in shock. But also can we talk about how hot and steamy this book is. Daddy Bear is everything! Legit screamed, reading “Daddy,” and I’m here for it all.
Duke will forever be my favorite, but Mason slowly crawled his way into my heart in this book, asking for me to make room for him. Legit these four together is fire. The passion and love they have for each other was my favorite part of this book. I legit want a story with just Duke, Mason, Lennon and Bear being hot together, making grilled cheese and hanging out. The four of them are everything.
There are so many great moments where your mouth hits the floor. Some old friends come to hangout, though I wouldn’t say they are happy about it, but it was great seeing them again. And that ending, I mean who, why, come on!!! Soooo good and soooo ready for Duke’s book as soon as possible please!
Book 2 of Bainbridge hall, and we get so many more secrets and betrayal. All of these books have just sucked me in.
Lennon and the guys continue to explore their feelings for each other while they are all still keeping secrets from each other. However, one bigger secret gets exposed to Mason and Duke.
Bear is also hiding a secret related to an old shoulder injury. The OG bastards (the guys fathers) are up to their normal shady behavior. They know the guys secrets and how they feel about Lennon.
The guys are told to do the auction as the OG's see fit or else. We get the flashback at the end with the Hawthorne guys and Elliott and the way this one ends and leaves me hanging.. ugh onto Duke's book because I can't not know the ending of this series.
I just want to say I’m still not over the cliffhanger of the last book but this eased my soul slightly 🤣
I can’t tell which man I love most, it’s either got to be… wait! Nope! Still love them all 🤣
I keep forgetting to mention Lennon, she’s someone important right?! Sorry, just joking! I love her but I think Elliot is my fav girl so far!
Finally getting another instalment in the series, questions getting answered with more questions but what more could you expect from a Leila James book 🤣
Love, love, love this series and can’t recommend it highly enough! Miss James… you have a fan for life 🥰
Good Lord gravy I don’t even know how to properly put into words how I feel about that cliffhanger. I’m glad that we got to see the auction from the Bainbridge boys view, Because that’s still have me a little sick to my stomach. Good Lord, the spice level in this book was off the charts. I thought that I loved the Hawthorne Hall boys, but GUUUURRRRRLLLL! This series is SPICY. The chemistry is super intense between the group & I fell more in love with the guys in this book. Now where is Duke?!? Imma need him asap please and thank you **insert grabby hands**
The story of the BOBH continues to enthrall me as James ups the ante…the drama, the tension, and the steam were off the charts in this book. The intrigue and suspense as well as the interactions between Lennon, Duke, Bear, and Mason will keep you on the edge of your seat! I did not want to put this book down. James knows how to pull the reader in with glimpses of each of these characters and hints about what is to come. The plot is full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing - never sure what will happen next! As the second book in a trilogy the ending left me wanting Duke’s book now, but I’ll just have to wait to see how this plays out! This gets all the stars and more, it’s such an addicting read. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book!
This story just keeps getting better and better! The secrets, corruption, and non-stop action hooked me until the end. I couldn't stop theorizing about how everything was connected and who the big bad really was. Bear wholly owned my heart; his pure connection with Lennon was fierce. The passion between them? Off the charts! Mason surprised me with his vulnerability, and it was amazing to see him grow closer to Lennon. Duke still frustrated me sometimes, but his softer side emerged towards the end. The auction scene was intense, and that ending left me craving more. I'm eagerly awaiting Duke's book!
I cannot say enough about this series, but this book was awesome. That being saidit ends in a cliffhanger. I can not wait for the next book!!! I don't know which character I like more it's a tossup Leila James has done it again not that straight out the park!!!
Holy cliffhanger I just finished and I’m already chopping at the bit for the next one. Leila is as usual the queen of leaving you wanting more. If you wanted twists and turns in your bully romance she’s the woman for you.
I’m so in love with Bear and Mason! Duke is working his way up there too. The storyline keeps getting better and better. Leila James loves to leave us with those cliffhangers, but that’s what keeps drawing us back!
I absolutely love this series!! Highly recommend you reading it now! 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
What a ride. I knew it was going to be bumpy! I knew there would be incredible twists and turns. What a rush. So much goes on and yet you have so many questions that you need answers to. I am in shock. But also can we talk about how hot and steamy this book is. Daddy Bear is everything! Legit screamed, reading “Daddy,” and I’m here for it all.
Duke will forever be my favorite, but Mason slowly crawled his way into my heart in this book, asking for me to make room for him. Legit these four together is fire. The passion and love they have for each other was my favorite part of this book. I legit want a story with just Duke, Mason, Lennon and Bear being hot together, making grilled cheese and hanging out. The four of them are everything.
There are so many great moments where your mouth hits the floor. Some old friends come to hangout, though I wouldn’t say they are happy about it, but it was great seeing them again. And that ending, I mean who, why, come on!!! Soooo good and soooo ready for Duke’s book as soon as possible please!
Bear , Bastards of Bainbridge Hall #2 by Leila James Pt 2 of this series. RH/WC, bully romance, this book gets hotter than the first, and ends on a crazy cliffhanger. Loved it.
This book is going to blow your mind. We also get the auction from Mason,Bear an Dukes POV as well as Lennons.
My favorites are
Bear Mason Duke
We finally get to find out who the MM is in this book an I for one am definitely on board. The guys seem to find their footing throughout this book with each other as well as how to navigate things that are developing with Lennon.
We get a surprise an find out Bears birth name an I loved it the spa/hot tub with him an Lennon is great she even calls him something. Mason still has his demons but seems to be trying to work through them even if he in my opinion is only associates Lennon with his mom because of her hair.
Duke is dealing with his emotions regarding things that are happening throughout the book. Fight night is an eye opener for him I think. I did enjoy Lennons reaction to a part at fight night though very possessive an interesting I’m down for it.
I still can’t stand the guys dads they all need to get there’s if you know what I mean an I hope it happens in Duke. I have a feeling Lennon has some type of amnesia in regards to some of her life an maybe that’s what all her sleep issues are from hopefully we get the full story of her past with Juliet since her nightmares are getting worse an seem to do with her.
I’m hoping Bear gets his act together with what we find out about him an he doesn’t go down the dark rabbit hole. I loved the fact that now we sorta get the idea that Lennon has either a stalker or they all have a spy in the house. I’m going with creepy spy an Warren gives off strange vibes to me can’t stand his girlfriend as well.
Can we just nickname Lennon lollipop she always has them haha. Anyway this book was so good I read it in a few days. There are some TW for some but not dark ones nor a lot. Just depends on what’s a trigger for you personally.
You don’t have to read Kingston,Cannon an Archer before this series but if you want the POV of the auction from their side an Elliot’s then an the drama between Kingston an Duke I suggest you start with them but if you don’t you won’t be lost or miss out on anything.
I can’t wait for Duke I need answers as well as why Duke has that nickname for Lennon.
One day I won’t be shocked by how much of a whirlwind of drama and craziness one of Leila James books contains, but today is not that day lol. This book was a wild ride. The suspense and mystery continue. The chemistry between the characters? 🔥🔥 and daddy bear? 😏
🩷🧸 Bear 🧸🩷 (Book 2 in the Bastards of Bainbridge Hall series) by Leila James
5/5 ⭐️ 5/5 🌶️
🩷 I KNEW IT. I knew if I was patient and made it through the second book that things would get better and better and they did!
🧸 The intensity of this book is a bit unmatched. There are so many moving parts - so many story lines that you truly have to keep track, because if you don’t you will get lost.
🩷 Let’s talk about Lennon. I didn’t like her in the first book - and clearly she has made a huge turnaround in this book. You start to see a bit more clearly that she has things in her past that are clearly needing to be figured out. She also, instead of being a whiny bish she turns out to be a bad 🍑 bish. I LIKE THAT. I like that she proves she’s worthy and proves that she is everything she says she is. That’s what makes me like her the most - because I clearly did not like her in the first book.
🧸 Let’s talk about the guys:
1. Duke: finally comes out of his shell but I still don’t truly understand him and I think that may take some time. There is something there with his father that isn’t quite making sense but I’m so happy that you see him find himself in this book. That he truly lets go of this innate need to control any and everything he possibly can. 2. Bear: You start to learn more of his story and start to realize that he truly has A LOT on his plate. He’s hiding things. He’s becoming less Bear and more his father in a way which I wasn’t sure I would like very much - but there’s a story there and a past and I really want to get to know it more! Plus - 🫠🫠🫠🫠 Daddy Bear. IYKYK! 3. Mason: This one still is working me over. I’m not 100% sure how I feel about him. I love that he brings Duke out of his shell but I’m questioning connections here and trying to figure him out. But honestly? I don’t think we are meant to figure him out until book 3.
🩷 HOLY CLIFFHANGER BATMAN. Literally … I remember the end of this book being about the middle or so of the second book of the Brothers of Hawthorne Hall series and reading it from this point of view puts everything into perspective. Honestly, that cliffhanger has me shook! I’m so happy I waited until Duke released to do a weekend binge of these books evacuee I know I couldn’t have waited a couple months on that information.
Be prepared to have all your senses placed in overdrive while you delve into Book 2 of the Bainbridge Hall series! Leila James has blown us away with this phenomenal second book in her new addicted series! Bainbridge Hall is filled with handsome and mysterious men that we have fallen hard for in Mason. In book 2 we get to see further into their amazing relationship and we get a glimpse into their past but there are still so many concerns and questions that will remain unanswered. However, what we get to experience during this book have no words. We get to see who is going to make up the MM of this MMFM why choose novel. Bear, Mason, Duke, and Lennon are some of my favorite characters and you will fall deeper in love with them. Bear is so protective of his "little gazelle" and he loves when she calls him "daddy." You will melt everytime they are together. Bear is a dedicated friend and lover but he has some secrets that could destroy everything he has been working for. Bear is intense, hot, sexy, and oh so dedicated to his sweer Lennon and his two best friends. You will fall even harder for Bear and the boys after this novel!!
Bear & Duke have to continually answer to their fathers and we see the darkness that we know has always been there but it comes full force in this novel. We also get to see "the auction" from Kingston U. series from the Bainbridge point of view and it is quite interesting! We also discover some things from Lennon's past but it's still blurry. She claims her men in this book and you will devour every minute of it. It is beyond sexy, sinfully delicious, and oh so heart melting. They are loving, caring, intense, emotional, and so full of strength and determination to keep each other safe. The pull for them to be together is scorching and jumps off the page. You will devour this book in one sitting for sure. Once you start there is no way to put it down. As always, Leila leaves us with a hell of a cliffhanger. Happy Reading!!!
Wow…I am blown away with Bear. This series keeps getting better and better. If you haven’t started the series then I highly recommend Bastards of Bainbridge Hall!! I sincerely and totally recommend Bear after reading the first two books in the Bastards of Bainbridge Hall. Leila James is one of my favorite authors and I highly recommend any and all of her books. Leila has not written a book that I have not loved. Leila’s books are all filled with lots of drama, angst, twists, turns, things going sideways, all the feels, and lots and lots of heat 🔥🔥 and Bear is no exception. I could not put Bear down and I read almost the whole book in one sitting and stayed up all night on top of that. So I recommend starting it when you have time to read as much of it as you can and not at night. Unless you have a lot of discipline in putting down books that capture your attention and draws readers into it like Bear did to me. As you already know by now I highly recommend Bear (after reading first two books in series), Bastards of Bainbridge Hall and Brothers of Hawthorne Hall (which is the series that is Bastards of Bainbridge Hall is a spin off of or vs) series, and Leila James as an author!! Just wanted to be clear on that lol 😂. As I mentioned just now Bastards if Bainbridge Hall is a spin-off of Brothers of Hawthorne Hall (or vs) 😂. Just know that both books mention the auction and you will get two sides of the stories or should I say two perspectives of what happened at the auction. I can’t wait for Duke to see what happens next at the auction and also the conclusion to the series! I know what happened at the auction from the Brothers of Hawthorne Hall’s and am dying to see what happens from the Bastards of Bainbridge Hall’s perspective. Don’t want to give anything away but if you haven’t read the Brothers of Hawthorne Hall then I highly suggest readers do so while waiting for Duke. Happy reading!!
Leila James absolutely Nailed it !!! I’m actually sitting here completely speechless firstly because I literally just finished Bear and am left spinning from the huge cliffhanger and secondly due to the simple reason that I feel like I was put though the wringer in all the best ways of course . There really are no perfect words to express all the different emotions I just experienced while reading the most exceptional story . What a wild wild that kept me on the edge of my seat in anticipation of what would happen from one second to to the next , that made me feel like my heart was being ripped right outta my chest but then put it right back together, that had me so frustrated during certain moments I wanted to throw my iPad right across the room . But one thing never wavered and that is the fact that I am so freaking in love with Bear , Mason , Duke and Lennon . It was not always that way either . When I first read Mason there certainly where times I was questioning weather I loved or hated Mason and Duke . I’ve always been pretty obsessed with Bear . But the more I got to know them the more I realized there are so many layers to each guy - so much more then first meets the eye . Now Im obsessed with all 3 . Not gonna lie though Bear still is my favorite. And I lover getting to know more about his background and the inner workings of his mind . The angst , the witty banter , the inane chemistry and steamy moments, the secrets , the intrigue, the suspense, the twists and turns, the tragedy, the family , the friendships , the heartbreaking and heartfelt moments, the revelations, the non stop action, the phenomenal world building. Bear was so much more then I ever could have asked for and everything I didn’t realize I needed . It’s a masterpiece that cannot be missed for any reason
⭐ - 5/5 (always) 🌶 - 5/5 (always lol Leila knows how to write it FOR SURE)
The second book of the Bastards of Brainbridge Hall. Savannah again has done it. I'm not sure why Bear was so much more addicting than the Mason but he does. Maybe it's the cover?? LOL I'm not sure. Bear is daddy, 100%. If you read the book you'll understand. 🙃
Just when you think you'll find out the answers to all the secrets Leila continues to make you wait. It's a love hate relationship lol. At this point I am dying to read Duke but I know I'll have to wait.
I just want to comment about Leila's writing style and say it is exceptional. After you read a ton of books you learn what you love and what you don't love. I can love a book but hate how fast the description of a scene is written. Leila gives me what I want with still writing nice, long lengthy scenes that DO NOT seem to go on forever. THANK YOU FOR THAT LEILA!
This book ends in a great cliffhanger which is terrible but I know after reading her first series in this storyline she will end it with a bang.
Mason's softer side comes out in this book even though the first book ended in an intense scene and I love seeing that side of him. But let's talk more about Bear. He's definitely the caretaker of the group but unfortunately that means not all of his darkest parts of him are seen and he is definitely struggling. I HATE HIS DAD! Bear is just too good to make him do these stupid fights but he still does them and even though it's hot as hell he obviously is struggling with something and it breaks my damn heart.
I want everyone to know this book (this entire series, honestly) is so addicting. I stayed up all night to finish it and I suspect if you find yourself starting it you will too. Amazing job, Leila! I cannot wait for after that freaking ending!!
I’ve been reading Leila’s books long enough now that you would think I would be accustomed to being completely sucked into the book once I start it. And I just have to say that having to be an adult and go to work when all I really wanted to do was sit and read this book…not fun.
I said it in my review for Mason, and I’ll say it again in this one…BEAR IS MINE! I laid claim to him in the previous book and I’m keeping him. Seriously, I completely fell in love with him in book one and even though I didn’t think it was possible, I fell even more for him in this one. I just want to wrap Mason in a hug and not let go…I really hope that he’s able to work through the issues caused by his awful family. And then there’s Duke. He actually grew on me this book…you know once he finally pulled his head out of his ass and admitted, if only to himself, that he has feelings for Lennon.
Lennon is still a total badass and one of my favorite parts is when she punches the fuck out of a character that totally has it coming. I love how she stands up for herself and how she refuses to let Mason push her away. She still has her vulnerable moments and I loved how she gravitated toward Bear during those times. I mean I can’t really blame her, I would totally gravitate toward the big, protective teddy bear too if I was feeling scared or anxious.
We got a FEW answers in this book…but I still NEED to know what from Lennon’s past has to do with what’s going on, because it totally does. And of course, I ended up with more questions than I started with, which I should be use to by now. Seriously, Leila, give a girl break and give me some answers already! Now, to wait for the last book so I can finally know everything.
Bear is book 2 in the B*stards of Bainbridge trilogy. We see Lennon, Duke, Bear and Mason trying to navigate the drama and complications surrounding their relationship. There is so much drama, suspense and angst. Someone is after Lennon while the guys are dealing with their fathers and the drama they bring.
Lennon and the guys are dealing with trauma of some sort but with their budding relationship they are a healing balm for one another. We get a glimpse into the struggles Bear, Duke and Mason have. Each guy is fighting their own personal demons as well as they feelings towards Lennon.
Male toxicity, Rich, Entitled, Spoiled and down right Manipulative they guys from Bainbridge Hall are despicable. They way they disrespect Lennon like she's a piece of meat to be devoured at their command is cringeworthy but when she shows them the type of bada** she truly is they learn one by one to back off.
The auction that we were privy to from the Brothers of Hawthorne Hall trilogy shows that not only was Elliot in danger but also Lennon. We remember from the previous trilogy that it was Bear, Duke and Mason who bid and took Elliot while thinking Lennon was off somewhere safe but here we something else is at play here. It's apparent that this has been orchestrated by someone with nefarious intentions towards Lennon and her guys. Elliot was never the target.
Who is behind the trickery that occurs at the end of this story? With Bear, Duke and Mason occupied with the Brothers of Hawthorne Hall, who is looking out for Lennon in her time of need?
OMG, Ms. James gives us a story that will have you all hot and bothered and falling in love with Bear. You will also find your emotions all over the place. We get more of a background into Bear, Mason and Duke but there are still so many questions that I have. This book picks up where Mason, book one in the series, leaves off. Lennon is still the centre of attention but who is after her? We get more answers as to why she is the way she is but we still do not have the full story. We see Bear as the caring and loving person that I thought he was. He truly has deep feelings for Lennon and it is very easy to see it in the way that he cares for and protects Lennon. We also get an insight into his relationship with his father, which is not one of love and family. All three of the guys are struggling with everything that is happening to Lennon and what their families are putting them through and what they are doing to them. The spice level in this one is off the charts. The interaction that happened between Lennon, Bear, Duke and Mason had me needing a very cold shower after. The connection and chemistry they have are off the charts. Unfortunately, I still have so many questions. Who is after Lennon and why? Does it have something to do with her past? Is someone out for revenge? Does she know something that she may not remember that has her in danger? The cliffhanger at the end of this one had my head spinning and my heart beating so fast. I can't wait to see what MS. James has in store for us in Duke.
With a cliffhanger that left readers biting their nails in anticipation of what happens next, Bear picks up right where Mason left off. Lennon has been forced to live in an exclusive college fraternity with her stepbrother Duke. Trying to keep her head down and to get through school, she finds herself surrounded by guys who aren’t too happy with her presence in their scared circle. As she becomes entwined with the heads of this household, she continues to be haunted by dreams of the past. Dreams that bring her fears to the forefront of Bastards of Bainbridge’s watchful gazes.
Mason is an artist with a turbulent storm in his eyes. A storm full of terrifying night terrors and emotions that can’t be contained. Duke is the leader of the pack with feeling he doesn’t know what to do with. Uncomfortable feelings for his stepsister and newfound feelings for one of his best friends. Bear is the big protective “teddy bear” football player with deep dark secret just waiting to break through the surface. Together… they are the Bastards of Bainbridge Hall.
Bear is my favorite book to date by author Leila James. The chemistry between this trio and their girl is off the charts. The pages of this book are about to be set on fire with how scorching hot they are. Once I started this book, I couldn’t put it down. I found myself turning page after page with every revelation being made or secret coming to light. With ending that came with this book, I need Duke like… yesterday. How is Leila James going to top this book? I can’t wait to find out.
In my review for Book #1 (Mason), I talked about how I wasn’t loving any of the characters and that the plot was weak. Well, not a lot changed in Book #2. I’ve actually decided to take a break before moving onto Book #3, because I’m just not enjoying myself.
Here’s the thing.. I do understand that this author has started a pattern here. She’s doing 3 book series that all connect with each other. Brilliant. I’m not mad about that at all, I was actually really excited. BUT.. this story didn’t need 3 books. So things are dragging and I’m BORED. And what little plot we do have is just annoying me.
Now.. I have been known to ignore plot pain points or even plot holes if I’m loving the characters, because then I just care less about the plot of the book and I only care about the character interactions and growth. But again, unfortunately, I can’t do that here, because..
I am firmly not enjoying any of the characters. All of the interactions between them just feel so awkward to me? Honestly, Duke and Masons interactions have felt the most natural, but even then, I have a problem with Duke feeling like a super weird character, so I can’t enjoy it. And I actively dislike Lennon, which is frustrating.
I feel like we have some decent pieces and parts in this story, but everything needed some massive fine tuning.. And a few things needed a complete overhaul.
So having said all of that.. I’m taking a little break. I do want to finish this series, but I need to read something that I’m excited to pick up right now instead of something that I feel obligated to read.
𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 🖤Bear🖤 Bastards of Bainbridge Hall #2 By Leila James Rating: ⭐ 5/5 Emotions: ❤️ 5/5 🌶️ 5/5
Just wow
This book is definitely not what I expected it to be and yet everything I could ever ask for. If I thought I knew the way this story could possibly go, I know now better. We get to see so many different emotions from all the characters. Lennon shows us her slightly weaker side, Mason comes slowly clean with his emotions or a few of them, Duke, just wow, didn’t see that not coming, in no way. And Bear, he is stuck in a circle he can’t get away from for now. Lennon forms a connection with the boys and with every one a different one. Every guy covers a different feeling in her. Safety, excitement and familiarity. But for full trust there is still a way to go. We learn about the pain that Duke and Mason have to go through from each of their pasts. The issues that loiters between them as well as between Bear and his father. And there is still the secret that Duke’s father seems to have that includes Lennon. It seems a really bad thing is coming. And with the cliffhanger I think it is just the beginning. The steamy scenes are over the top, the tension between Lennon and Duke palpable and finally breaking when you think you can’t handle it anymore to read about. And the one big secret we got to know turns the tables a lot, I am curious where that will lead us to. Can’t wait for the final installment to come.