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I only want one thing out of my fleeting time on earth: to love and be loved by Stella Wright.
The intensity of that realization is enough to make me scared of death for the first time in my life.
A dark, murder mystery and friends-with benefits-romance, perfect for fans of Glass Onion and Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti’s Harlequin Crew series.
Ten years ago, Stella Wright never thought a hostess job at an Irish pub would lead to working for the Foxes, the most infamous and dangerous mobsters on the East Coast, let alone to calling them family.
After tragically losing his parents when he was just a boy, Lochlan Fox was raised by his hotheaded brothers. He never had to grow up, but he never had a childhood either, perpetually the wild, youngest brother
Taking on more responsibility in the family business, Stella and Lochlan are sent to close the deal to acquire Summerland, a private island resort known for its dark and secretive sex club.
They've been pretending their drunken one night stand five months ago never happened, but as the island and its vices lure them in, denying the attraction becomes impossible.
Their tropical work trip takes a dark turn when Stella wakes up the morning after a masquerade party missing her memory from the night before and covered in someone else’s blood.
With their hearts on the line, they have to sort through secrets, betrayals, blackmail, and murder if they want to make it out of this deadly paradise alive.
This is a dark, adult romance. For a detailed list of content, please visit author's website.
The intensity of that realization is enough to make me scared of death for the first time in my life.
A dark, murder mystery and friends-with benefits-romance, perfect for fans of Glass Onion and Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti’s Harlequin Crew series.
Ten years ago, Stella Wright never thought a hostess job at an Irish pub would lead to working for the Foxes, the most infamous and dangerous mobsters on the East Coast, let alone to calling them family.
After tragically losing his parents when he was just a boy, Lochlan Fox was raised by his hotheaded brothers. He never had to grow up, but he never had a childhood either, perpetually the wild, youngest brother
Taking on more responsibility in the family business, Stella and Lochlan are sent to close the deal to acquire Summerland, a private island resort known for its dark and secretive sex club.
They've been pretending their drunken one night stand five months ago never happened, but as the island and its vices lure them in, denying the attraction becomes impossible.
Their tropical work trip takes a dark turn when Stella wakes up the morning after a masquerade party missing her memory from the night before and covered in someone else’s blood.
With their hearts on the line, they have to sort through secrets, betrayals, blackmail, and murder if they want to make it out of this deadly paradise alive.
This is a dark, adult romance. For a detailed list of content, please visit author's website.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 5, 2024
299 people are currently reading
5206 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 330 reviews
February 17, 2025
i fucking lost it when he whipped out his dick (in broad daylight) and attempted to piss on her because she got stung by a jellyfish… his efforts were not successful after she said “boy if you don’t put that dick away!” 🪼😭
February 25, 2025
2.00 ☆
THIS BOOK WAS A TOTAL PAGE-TURNER YALL!!! 🔥........ I kept turning pages hoping for it to end.
Make Me book 1 3.5 ☆
Hate Me book 2 2.00 ☆
Keep me book 3 5.00 ☆
THIS BOOK WAS A TOTAL PAGE-TURNER YALL!!! 🔥........ I kept turning pages hoping for it to end.
Make Me book 1 3.5 ☆
Hate Me book 2 2.00 ☆
Keep me book 3 5.00 ☆
May 28, 2025
2.5
silly of me to go into a dark romance book and have a complaint that it’s just too much smut but it just doesn’t make sense that there’s a murder mystery on an island and they’re fucking??? there’s literally a scene where the island is on lockdown and the guy is like “sit on my face” HELLO??? if this were a slasher you’d be dead! like i’m not against smut in books and im not a prude but i at my age i just don’t care to be reading about smut especially when the plot is sooo weak. i will say i did enjoy the author getting black sensitivity readers to make sure the book accurately portrays black women and even shouting out some black authors she enjoys.
silly of me to go into a dark romance book and have a complaint that it’s just too much smut but it just doesn’t make sense that there’s a murder mystery on an island and they’re fucking??? there’s literally a scene where the island is on lockdown and the guy is like “sit on my face” HELLO??? if this were a slasher you’d be dead! like i’m not against smut in books and im not a prude but i at my age i just don’t care to be reading about smut especially when the plot is sooo weak. i will say i did enjoy the author getting black sensitivity readers to make sure the book accurately portrays black women and even shouting out some black authors she enjoys.
January 8, 2024
4.5⭐️ one thing about me is I am going to finish a book at 3am and then immediately review it. This was SO FUN!! Aaaaaahhh Lochy baby my sweet boy was such a SIMP for Stella. We love a man who’s simply 💋obsessed💋 this was such a sexy and entertaining way to end the series. I loved the vacation setting! I’m going to miss this mafia world so much because this series is just tooooooooooo gooooooood. READ IT MY MAFIA FANS I’M SO SERIOUS
***thank you Summer for the ARC copy
***thank you Summer for the ARC copy
May 28, 2025
I think I expected more of a bang for it being the last book in the series, AND it being the wild younger brother.
Alas, it was neither.
Alas, it was neither.
April 24, 2025
Lochy Baby is down BAD for Stella and so am I. Let me in y’all’s relationship.
I knew from the beginning that Stella and Lochlan would be some of my favorite characters of the series, but never did I imagine these two together. I thought maybe Finn or Roan. But Summer O’Toole’s mind! Incredible.
I’ve never been one for the reverse age gap (yes, I know this is hypocritical) and I’ll be honest it had me hesitant, but it worked and was done so well. The way these two balanced each other out in every single way was just so perfect.
Lochlan is the sunshine golden retriever psychopath killer of my dreams. Stella is the smart, beautiful, levelheaded light of my life that deserves the whole world. They were impossible not to fall in love with and their chemistry from the very beginning was off the charts. It all just made sense, like I should’ve seen it coming, but didn’t and it still worked.
Dare me is practically a Rom-Com in comparison to the rest of the series, but absolutely check out the content warnings. Still definitely a dark romance with murder and violence. A bit of fun amateur sleuthing, and my god. The filth coming out of both of their mouths. Impeccable. Also, my very favorite microtrope was included, terms of endearment in another language make me go feral.
Do NOT ask me to pick a favorite Fox brother, I would rather have Lochlan harvest one of my organs than try and decide. However, this book might be my favorite. It truly was the perfect way to wrap up such a good series.
Thank you to Summer O’toole for the ARC!
I knew from the beginning that Stella and Lochlan would be some of my favorite characters of the series, but never did I imagine these two together. I thought maybe Finn or Roan. But Summer O’Toole’s mind! Incredible.
I’ve never been one for the reverse age gap (yes, I know this is hypocritical) and I’ll be honest it had me hesitant, but it worked and was done so well. The way these two balanced each other out in every single way was just so perfect.
Lochlan is the sunshine golden retriever psychopath killer of my dreams. Stella is the smart, beautiful, levelheaded light of my life that deserves the whole world. They were impossible not to fall in love with and their chemistry from the very beginning was off the charts. It all just made sense, like I should’ve seen it coming, but didn’t and it still worked.
Dare me is practically a Rom-Com in comparison to the rest of the series, but absolutely check out the content warnings. Still definitely a dark romance with murder and violence. A bit of fun amateur sleuthing, and my god. The filth coming out of both of their mouths. Impeccable. Also, my very favorite microtrope was included, terms of endearment in another language make me go feral.
Do NOT ask me to pick a favorite Fox brother, I would rather have Lochlan harvest one of my organs than try and decide. However, this book might be my favorite. It truly was the perfect way to wrap up such a good series.
Thank you to Summer O’toole for the ARC!
January 25, 2024
4/5⭐️
4/5🌶
El último de los hermanos Fox: Lochlan, el benjamín tiene también su historia. Y nada menos que con Stella a quien conocimos en el primer libro.
Es una historia de diferencia de edad donde ella es mayor, así que el mayor obstáculo para Lochlan es lograr que lo tomen en serio.
Como en libros anteriores, hay mucha química, mucho spicy y un misterio a resolver.
Es mucho menos oscuro que los demás. Casi un romcom subida de tono.
El ambiente es una isla paradisíaca donde los protagonistas tienen que averiguar qué pasó durante fiesta de máscaras.
Me gustó. Lochlan es un dulce de leche.. mafioso y Stella me encanta. La autora toca temas que suelen generar discusión, sin mucho ruido, solo dejando que ocurra. Me encanta.
La resolución del conflicto es un poco mediocre.
El epílogo es un gran final para los hermanos Fox.
4/5🌶
El último de los hermanos Fox: Lochlan, el benjamín tiene también su historia. Y nada menos que con Stella a quien conocimos en el primer libro.
Es una historia de diferencia de edad donde ella es mayor, así que el mayor obstáculo para Lochlan es lograr que lo tomen en serio.
Como en libros anteriores, hay mucha química, mucho spicy y un misterio a resolver.
Es mucho menos oscuro que los demás. Casi un romcom subida de tono.
El ambiente es una isla paradisíaca donde los protagonistas tienen que averiguar qué pasó durante fiesta de máscaras.
Me gustó. Lochlan es un dulce de leche.. mafioso y Stella me encanta. La autora toca temas que suelen generar discusión, sin mucho ruido, solo dejando que ocurra. Me encanta.
La resolución del conflicto es un poco mediocre.
El epílogo es un gran final para los hermanos Fox.
January 28, 2025
4.5 🌟
Вони були дуже милою парою) Лохлан справжня бусінка)
на початку історія була дуже легкою та як жодалась детективна лінію, то більш гостросюжетно стало.
Ця книжка дійсно найлегша з попередніх, більше як курорьний роман читається.
Мені сподобалось
Вони були дуже милою парою) Лохлан справжня бусінка)
на початку історія була дуже легкою та як жодалась детективна лінію, то більш гостросюжетно стало.
Ця книжка дійсно найлегша з попередніх, більше як курорьний роман читається.
Мені сподобалось
September 8, 2024
Заключна книга в серії, не мала до неї високих очікувань, тому мені сподобалось. Цікаві головні герої та інтригуюча сюжетна лінія🔥
Стелла Райт — 30 років, адміністратор (керуюча) у пабі сім‘ї Фокс.
Лохлан Фокс — 23 роки, четвертий брат у сім‘ї Фокс, ірландський синдикат.
Стелла найстарша дочка у своїй сім‘ї, тому ще з дитинства звикла брати на себе багато відповідальності. Спочатку це були турбота про молодшого брата і сестру, і паралельно вона з всіх сил намагалася як найкраще вчитися. Коли ж почалося самостійне доросле життя, вона влаштувалася на роботу до сім‘ї Фокс. Її наполегливість, відповідальність, працьовитість та чесність, допомогли завоювувати довіру у всіх чотирьох братів. Вона стала не просто працівницею, тепер вона частина їх сім‘ї. Але що як наймолодший з братів не хоче бути з нею просто друзям, а йому потрібно її серце та кохання…
Лохлан завжди був під опікою та захистом своїх братів, він любить пожартувати та завжди усміхається. Але це не робить його менш жорстоким чи небезпечним, для ворогів він суддя, присяжний та кат.
Кожен раз він повертається з новою дівчиною, для нього це не більше ніж секс на одну ніч, ніяких стосунків. Тому що єдина людина з якою він хоче мати стосунки не сприймає його серйозно. Лохлан зробить все щоб досягнути своєї мети, а його мета одна і це Стелла.
З цими головними героями знайомство почалося ще з першої книги, а тут вже повністю їх розкрили. Стелла завжди відповідальна, планує все на перед та живе за графіком, а Лохлан жартівник який живе одним днем.
Кеш вирішує підвищити Стеллу, і пропонує їй поїхати на острів «Саммерленд» та перевірити чи все відповідає їх вимогам, якщо так вони придбають його і вона буде там керуючою. Лохлан просить у Кеша щоб він поїхав разом з Стеллою замість нього, так як важає що це ідеальний шанс завоювати її. Адже після однієї проведеної ночі разом він неможе забути Стеллу, а вона просто його ігнорує.
Коли вони приїхали, їх зустріли два брати - власники цього острову. Стелла відразу захотіла роздивитися все навколо та переконатися, що ця покупка для них буде вігідна та вдала. На острові є готель, котеджі, різні ресторани, клуби та розваги на будь-який смак навіть самі гарячі. Один з таких це клуб «Лібідін», де люди можуть виконати будь-яку свою сексуальну фантазію. І ось одного дня там відбувається вечірка-маскарад, Стелла та Лохлан вирішують піти не очікуючи нічого поганого.
Та на ранок Стелла прокидається вся в крові і нічого не пам‘ятає, а в двері котеджу стукає один з власників острову бо його брата знайшли мертвого і він думає, що це зробив Лохлан.
Розслідування загадкового вбивства та палка любовна лінія🔥
Мені сподобалася ця книга, було цікаво прочитати про зворотню різницю у віці, коли жінка старша за чоловіка. Та і сама сюжетна лінія була інтригуюча, я до останього не могла зрозуміти хто вбивця🫣 Любовна лінія як на мене не погана, але все ж незахопила повністю. Те як описали головну героїню, і як упередженно вона ставилася до головного героя - мені не сподобалося. Моментами дійсно було боляче за Лохлана, як він намагався зробити все а у відповідь отримував нічого.
Ставлю цій книзі 4/5⭐️
Стелла Райт — 30 років, адміністратор (керуюча) у пабі сім‘ї Фокс.
Лохлан Фокс — 23 роки, четвертий брат у сім‘ї Фокс, ірландський синдикат.
Стелла найстарша дочка у своїй сім‘ї, тому ще з дитинства звикла брати на себе багато відповідальності. Спочатку це були турбота про молодшого брата і сестру, і паралельно вона з всіх сил намагалася як найкраще вчитися. Коли ж почалося самостійне доросле життя, вона влаштувалася на роботу до сім‘ї Фокс. Її наполегливість, відповідальність, працьовитість та чесність, допомогли завоювувати довіру у всіх чотирьох братів. Вона стала не просто працівницею, тепер вона частина їх сім‘ї. Але що як наймолодший з братів не хоче бути з нею просто друзям, а йому потрібно її серце та кохання…
Лохлан завжди був під опікою та захистом своїх братів, він любить пожартувати та завжди усміхається. Але це не робить його менш жорстоким чи небезпечним, для ворогів він суддя, присяжний та кат.
Кожен раз він повертається з новою дівчиною, для нього це не більше ніж секс на одну ніч, ніяких стосунків. Тому що єдина людина з якою він хоче мати стосунки не сприймає його серйозно. Лохлан зробить все щоб досягнути своєї мети, а його мета одна і це Стелла.
З цими головними героями знайомство почалося ще з першої книги, а тут вже повністю їх розкрили. Стелла завжди відповідальна, планує все на перед та живе за графіком, а Лохлан жартівник який живе одним днем.
Кеш вирішує підвищити Стеллу, і пропонує їй поїхати на острів «Саммерленд» та перевірити чи все відповідає їх вимогам, якщо так вони придбають його і вона буде там керуючою. Лохлан просить у Кеша щоб він поїхав разом з Стеллою замість нього, так як важає що це ідеальний шанс завоювати її. Адже після однієї проведеної ночі разом він неможе забути Стеллу, а вона просто його ігнорує.
Коли вони приїхали, їх зустріли два брати - власники цього острову. Стелла відразу захотіла роздивитися все навколо та переконатися, що ця покупка для них буде вігідна та вдала. На острові є готель, котеджі, різні ресторани, клуби та розваги на будь-який смак навіть самі гарячі. Один з таких це клуб «Лібідін», де люди можуть виконати будь-яку свою сексуальну фантазію. І ось одного дня там відбувається вечірка-маскарад, Стелла та Лохлан вирішують піти не очікуючи нічого поганого.
Та на ранок Стелла прокидається вся в крові і нічого не пам‘ятає, а в двері котеджу стукає один з власників острову бо його брата знайшли мертвого і він думає, що це зробив Лохлан.
Розслідування загадкового вбивства та палка любовна лінія🔥
Мені сподобалася ця книга, було цікаво прочитати про зворотню різницю у віці, коли жінка старша за чоловіка. Та і сама сюжетна лінія була інтригуюча, я до останього не могла зрозуміти хто вбивця🫣 Любовна лінія як на мене не погана, але все ж незахопила повністю. Те як описали головну героїню, і як упередженно вона ставилася до головного героя - мені не сподобалося. Моментами дійсно було боляче за Лохлана, як він намагався зробити все а у відповідь отримував нічого.
Ставлю цій книзі 4/5⭐️
January 7, 2024
Although it may be considered the 'lightest' of the series, I resonate with the book a lot.
Stella definitely embodied the person who is always taking care of those she loves, automatically in the 'older sister' role. It was completely refreshing to see Lochlan always on the look out of her needs and making sure she is safe while not taking her autonomy and independence away. I loved how Stella was always sure of herself and knew when to standup as well.
Dare Me actually started quite strong, the first line made me laugh so hard.
The storyline between Lochlan and Stella was kind of...cute. Definitely had me giggling, blushing, and twirling my hair around my fingers while having that staple writing that is unique to Summer.
There is somewhat of a mystery component behind the book that becomes more prominent after the 50% mark, but I enjoyed that it didn't take away from the couple, but rather enhanced their relationship/teamwork even more.
The banter within the entire Fox family was such a heartwarming thing to experience and also including Stella's family and their love for Lochlan was super sweet. Lochlan was a very flirtatious character and I agreed with Stella in a lot of her reservations, especially with their age gap.
As always, Summer always brings us swooning men willing to do anything for their women, but Lochlan was soooo sweet and definitely was head over heels for Stella. But don't get me wrong, that man had a TONGUE 👅.
Although this is technically the last book in the series, I am looking forward to see if there's any updates on Stella and Lochlan's relationship in the future.
-eARC for honest thoughts and opinions.
Stella definitely embodied the person who is always taking care of those she loves, automatically in the 'older sister' role. It was completely refreshing to see Lochlan always on the look out of her needs and making sure she is safe while not taking her autonomy and independence away. I loved how Stella was always sure of herself and knew when to standup as well.
Dare Me actually started quite strong, the first line made me laugh so hard.
The storyline between Lochlan and Stella was kind of...cute. Definitely had me giggling, blushing, and twirling my hair around my fingers while having that staple writing that is unique to Summer.
There is somewhat of a mystery component behind the book that becomes more prominent after the 50% mark, but I enjoyed that it didn't take away from the couple, but rather enhanced their relationship/teamwork even more.
The banter within the entire Fox family was such a heartwarming thing to experience and also including Stella's family and their love for Lochlan was super sweet. Lochlan was a very flirtatious character and I agreed with Stella in a lot of her reservations, especially with their age gap.
As always, Summer always brings us swooning men willing to do anything for their women, but Lochlan was soooo sweet and definitely was head over heels for Stella. But don't get me wrong, that man had a TONGUE 👅.
Although this is technically the last book in the series, I am looking forward to see if there's any updates on Stella and Lochlan's relationship in the future.
-eARC for honest thoughts and opinions.
January 14, 2024
lochlan fox is my dream man tbh
December 23, 2023
having had the honor of helping the author plot the criminal element to this story, i still went into this book fairly blind and it was an adventure. it's no secret i hold a special place in my heart for authors who write powerful women in all shapes and forms, wherever their strength may lie, and summer o'toole not only exceeds at that but also at female dynamics. this story was yet another proof of that. stella has been my favorite character since book 1 and her own story made me love her all the more. and lochy baby was a surprise, i wasn't expecting to relate to him. i appreciated the seamlessly shift in their relationship as if their destinies had been tethering towards each other all along. what an endearing end to this comforting mafia series.
*i was sent an arc by the author in exchange for a honest review
*i was sent an arc by the author in exchange for a honest review
May 22, 2025
And despite being hundreds of miles away from home, an errant thought appears that says, I’m already there.
4/5 ⭐ 2.5/5 🌶️
It’s such a bittersweet moment to read the last book in the Fox Family Crime Syndicate series. Lochlan and Stella made quite the pair, with electrifying energy and tense chemistry that kept me hooked from the start.
Overall, I really loved the book—I was so excited to dive into these characters’ stories. The plot was fun and engaging, and Lochlan was one wild MMC. As a true Fox brother, he was the epitome of OTT. Imagine golden-retriever-energy mixed with gangster and murderous vibes, and you’ve got Loch. He’s funny but with zero moral inhibitions…
Stella was equally amazing. Gorgeous, smart, and strong, she was a joy to read about and easy to love.
Even though I enjoyed the book, it didn’t quite hit the same note for me as the rest of the series. Maybe Lochlan was smitten a bit too quickly, or perhaps it was the dark rom-com vibes or the reverse age gap—usually not my jam. I also felt the book was a bit too long, and at times I found it hard to fully immerse myself in it.
All in all, I have to say goodbye to this series, which has been an absolute blast. Dark, delicious, with great spice, unforgettable characters, and thrilling plots! As for my favorite Fox… hmm, probably Finn. Or Cash… or Finn… Ugh, maybe it’s Roan after all.
Series rating by favorites:
1st : Hate me - 4⭐
2nd : Keep me - 5⭐
3rd : Make me - 4.5⭐
4th : Dare me - 4⭐
Did I like it? Yeap.
Would I reread it? Nope.
4/5 ⭐ 2.5/5 🌶️
It’s such a bittersweet moment to read the last book in the Fox Family Crime Syndicate series. Lochlan and Stella made quite the pair, with electrifying energy and tense chemistry that kept me hooked from the start.
Overall, I really loved the book—I was so excited to dive into these characters’ stories. The plot was fun and engaging, and Lochlan was one wild MMC. As a true Fox brother, he was the epitome of OTT. Imagine golden-retriever-energy mixed with gangster and murderous vibes, and you’ve got Loch. He’s funny but with zero moral inhibitions…
Stella was equally amazing. Gorgeous, smart, and strong, she was a joy to read about and easy to love.
Even though I enjoyed the book, it didn’t quite hit the same note for me as the rest of the series. Maybe Lochlan was smitten a bit too quickly, or perhaps it was the dark rom-com vibes or the reverse age gap—usually not my jam. I also felt the book was a bit too long, and at times I found it hard to fully immerse myself in it.
All in all, I have to say goodbye to this series, which has been an absolute blast. Dark, delicious, with great spice, unforgettable characters, and thrilling plots! As for my favorite Fox… hmm, probably Finn. Or Cash… or Finn… Ugh, maybe it’s Roan after all.
Series rating by favorites:
1st : Hate me - 4⭐
2nd : Keep me - 5⭐
3rd : Make me - 4.5⭐
4th : Dare me - 4⭐
Did I like it? Yeap.
Would I reread it? Nope.
February 25, 2025
3.5 stars.
The storyline drama was a bit weak in my opinion but I really liked the relationship between the FMC and MMC. Very sexy, very hot! 🥵
I think I couldn't get into the solving a murder mystery because the guy was a real POS, and there wasn't much that was thrilling happening.
The storyline drama was a bit weak in my opinion but I really liked the relationship between the FMC and MMC. Very sexy, very hot! 🥵
I think I couldn't get into the solving a murder mystery because the guy was a real POS, and there wasn't much that was thrilling happening.
January 4, 2024
I’ve loved Stella from the moment she said the Foxes are like if someone gave toddlers guns instead of a nap, and her quick wit was even more fun in Dare Me. She’s the perfect addition to the Fox Family, even though she’s technically been seen as part of the family for years. She doesn’t put up with the guys shit, she holds her own, and she is damn good at her work.
Lochlan might be the goofy, most sunshiny of the Fox brothers, but he’s just as crazy as the rest of them. I’m so sad this means the Fox Family series is over 😭 I’m gonna miss their crazy asses.
While I did love Stella & Lochlan together, I felt like I was left wanting a little bit more. The murder mystery aspect was interesting and a lot of fun, but I wanted a little more of the two of them figuring out their relationship towards the end.
Highlights:
- Romance: MF
- Breeding kiñk (without the baby)
- Friends-to-lovers
- Found family
- She’s grumpy, he’s sunshine
- She’s older (7 years)
- Reformed playboy
- Organized crime family
- Island murder mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
“There isn’t a single part of you that doesn’t make me come un-fucking-done.”
Note: I received an ARC from the author. Decision to read/review was my own. Opinion is my own.
Lochlan might be the goofy, most sunshiny of the Fox brothers, but he’s just as crazy as the rest of them. I’m so sad this means the Fox Family series is over 😭 I’m gonna miss their crazy asses.
While I did love Stella & Lochlan together, I felt like I was left wanting a little bit more. The murder mystery aspect was interesting and a lot of fun, but I wanted a little more of the two of them figuring out their relationship towards the end.
Highlights:
- Romance: MF
- Breeding kiñk (without the baby)
- Friends-to-lovers
- Found family
- She’s grumpy, he’s sunshine
- She’s older (7 years)
- Reformed playboy
- Organized crime family
- Island murder mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
“There isn’t a single part of you that doesn’t make me come un-fucking-done.”
Note: I received an ARC from the author. Decision to read/review was my own. Opinion is my own.
January 2, 2024
The littlest Fox brother was worth the wait 🥹 🦊
AND I LOVE HIM SO MUCH. I knew I would!
This man can FLIRT. I was blushing lol their chemistry is perfection. And all three hair care 🥹 I melted. MELTED. I shan’t say more but dm me if you also melted 🫠
And 👀 Stella 👀 ohhhh I like her so much. SO MUCH.
This is the end of @summer Fox’s family era and it ended off on the sweetest note.
Stella is not new to the Fox family and their shenanigans. She has been an honorary member of their family for years and Lachlan has had a crush on her for a whileeee. AHH!
I loved this one crush it was best family friends YOUNGER brother 👀 there’s something so drool worthy about a reverse age gap where he falls first and harddddd 🥹
This is still a mafia adjacent story but I would say it’s more of a ‘who done it’ set on a tropical islanddddd. 🏝️ sign me tf up lol
Stella and Lachlan originally go to this island because the Fox brothers want Stella to be co-owner of a new club/bar there (and it’s a really smexy bar 😏) but there are a series of unalive moments that happen that they try to figure out together.
Stella, understandably so, is hesitant to get involved with her friends’ younger brother and her best friend.
Our precious baby Lachlan is also a …. Ladies mannnn and as soon as he sets his sights on Stella, nothing will stop him from getting his girl.
I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I read with one hand. Summer really gave us it all in this one and wrapped this series up so nicely.
I’m sad to see the Foxs go, but I know that Summer will have us obsessed with whatever she gives us next!
This one is out January 5 💙🩵
Reel is coming soon 😏
Edit is mine, pics are not 🤍
AND I LOVE HIM SO MUCH. I knew I would!
This man can FLIRT. I was blushing lol their chemistry is perfection. And all three hair care 🥹 I melted. MELTED. I shan’t say more but dm me if you also melted 🫠
And 👀 Stella 👀 ohhhh I like her so much. SO MUCH.
This is the end of @summer Fox’s family era and it ended off on the sweetest note.
Stella is not new to the Fox family and their shenanigans. She has been an honorary member of their family for years and Lachlan has had a crush on her for a whileeee. AHH!
I loved this one crush it was best family friends YOUNGER brother 👀 there’s something so drool worthy about a reverse age gap where he falls first and harddddd 🥹
This is still a mafia adjacent story but I would say it’s more of a ‘who done it’ set on a tropical islanddddd. 🏝️ sign me tf up lol
Stella and Lachlan originally go to this island because the Fox brothers want Stella to be co-owner of a new club/bar there (and it’s a really smexy bar 😏) but there are a series of unalive moments that happen that they try to figure out together.
Stella, understandably so, is hesitant to get involved with her friends’ younger brother and her best friend.
Our precious baby Lachlan is also a …. Ladies mannnn and as soon as he sets his sights on Stella, nothing will stop him from getting his girl.
I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I read with one hand. Summer really gave us it all in this one and wrapped this series up so nicely.
I’m sad to see the Foxs go, but I know that Summer will have us obsessed with whatever she gives us next!
This one is out January 5 💙🩵
Reel is coming soon 😏
Edit is mine, pics are not 🤍
January 6, 2024
Dare Me is the fourth book in the Fox Family Crime Syndicate series and can be read as a standalone.
Lochlan Fox, the youngest Fox brother, was a goner for Stella. Seriously.
Okay, backing it up a bit. These two had to go to a private island, and with the sex club, their forced proximity, and just the vibes, there was no way for them to stay away from each other. Or, at least Stella couldn’t hold back her feelings, especially with Lochlan refusing to give up on her just giving him a chance.
Ah, Lochlan was seriously so sweet, but he was also FILTHY. I mean, I guess it made sense as they were on the private island known for its sex club. But wheew, the mouth on that man. And Stella was definitely dirty too, going along with all of his games and implementing some of her own.
These two were so hot together, and they worked well together too. They did, after all, have to solve a murder mystery. Of course, there were some hitches in their investigation, but those hitches showed Stella’s compassionate heart and how resilient Lochlan was.
I’m sad the series is over, but I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Lochlan Fox, the youngest Fox brother, was a goner for Stella. Seriously.
Okay, backing it up a bit. These two had to go to a private island, and with the sex club, their forced proximity, and just the vibes, there was no way for them to stay away from each other. Or, at least Stella couldn’t hold back her feelings, especially with Lochlan refusing to give up on her just giving him a chance.
Ah, Lochlan was seriously so sweet, but he was also FILTHY. I mean, I guess it made sense as they were on the private island known for its sex club. But wheew, the mouth on that man. And Stella was definitely dirty too, going along with all of his games and implementing some of her own.
These two were so hot together, and they worked well together too. They did, after all, have to solve a murder mystery. Of course, there were some hitches in their investigation, but those hitches showed Stella’s compassionate heart and how resilient Lochlan was.
I’m sad the series is over, but I can’t wait to see what’s next.
March 9, 2024
I don't do reverse age gaps. But Summer O'Toole stole my heart and I found myself reading this.
It was more than worth it.
I praised the author before but lemme do it one more time.
We read alpha heroes. We read sub male characters. We read woman pleasers, bad boys only good for her, jesting guys with possessive side, gentlemen who fucks hardcore,,, spectrum is wide.
But I don't remember a time when I read a hero who can be demanding alpha and needy servile at. the. same. time.
I'm not talking about switching dynamics in relationship or letting the other one taste the opposite role.
So O'Toole is a new blood for romances and she proves this every time. Thank you.
mommies out
;;;
deamorski
It was more than worth it.
"He dips his head back down to nudge his nose against his bite marks."
I praised the author before but lemme do it one more time.
We read alpha heroes. We read sub male characters. We read woman pleasers, bad boys only good for her, jesting guys with possessive side, gentlemen who fucks hardcore,,, spectrum is wide.
But I don't remember a time when I read a hero who can be demanding alpha and needy servile at. the. same. time.
I'm not talking about switching dynamics in relationship or letting the other one taste the opposite role.
So O'Toole is a new blood for romances and she proves this every time. Thank you.
"That's right baby, get up here and use me."
mommies out
;;;
deamorski
December 18, 2023
“I only want one thing out of my fleeting time on earth: to love and be loved by Stella Wright.”
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Book 4/4
Interconnected standalone
Dark romance
Friends to lovers
Murder mystery on an island
Reverse age gap (7 years)
Eldest sister vibes
Golden retriever who kills people
Dirty talk (praise and degradation)
Breeding kink without the result
Impact play
Pierced 🍒
Bondage
Wax play
Voyeurism
Exhibitionism
Sex club scene
Primal play
Toy play
Leave it to Summer to write a dark romance that is somehow light and dark at the same time, funny and heartwarming and cozy… like, HOW?! But if I had to describe this book in one word it would be HORNY.
Lochlan and Stella have been friends for years, but after one hook-up and a near-death experience, Lochlan realizes that she’s way more than just a friend to him. He accompanies her to Summerland, the resort/island that’s going to be the new Fox business, where Stella manages the deal. But then a murder happens, and the business on the island turns into a matter of life and death. Meanwhile it seems like all Lochlan is going to be to Stella is a friend with benefits, but he’s determined to change that.
Stella is the classic eldest daughter, and I loved her. She’s strong, smart, and most importantly, takes no shit from anyone. Not even from the four Fox brothers she works for. I related to her need to stay in control, to always take care of others before herself. Her sense of responsibility. It’s why Lochlan stole my heart, because he recognized that and was determined to take care of HER. Plus he’s a psycho golden retriever, which was so funny and charming and perfect!!! He’s literally an unhinged puppy and I am so in love with him it’s disgusting. The plot was fun, the murder mystery was more of a side plot and I feel like the character development was the number one priority in this book. Both plots complimented each other which was perfect. I can always count on Summer to write the nastiest smut but this was ridiculously hot. Damn it ticked all my boxes. No slow burn in sight!!! I loved this from start to finish.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Book 4/4
Interconnected standalone
Dark romance
Friends to lovers
Murder mystery on an island
Reverse age gap (7 years)
Eldest sister vibes
Golden retriever who kills people
Dirty talk (praise and degradation)
Breeding kink without the result
Impact play
Pierced 🍒
Bondage
Wax play
Voyeurism
Exhibitionism
Sex club scene
Primal play
Toy play
Leave it to Summer to write a dark romance that is somehow light and dark at the same time, funny and heartwarming and cozy… like, HOW?! But if I had to describe this book in one word it would be HORNY.
Lochlan and Stella have been friends for years, but after one hook-up and a near-death experience, Lochlan realizes that she’s way more than just a friend to him. He accompanies her to Summerland, the resort/island that’s going to be the new Fox business, where Stella manages the deal. But then a murder happens, and the business on the island turns into a matter of life and death. Meanwhile it seems like all Lochlan is going to be to Stella is a friend with benefits, but he’s determined to change that.
Stella is the classic eldest daughter, and I loved her. She’s strong, smart, and most importantly, takes no shit from anyone. Not even from the four Fox brothers she works for. I related to her need to stay in control, to always take care of others before herself. Her sense of responsibility. It’s why Lochlan stole my heart, because he recognized that and was determined to take care of HER. Plus he’s a psycho golden retriever, which was so funny and charming and perfect!!! He’s literally an unhinged puppy and I am so in love with him it’s disgusting. The plot was fun, the murder mystery was more of a side plot and I feel like the character development was the number one priority in this book. Both plots complimented each other which was perfect. I can always count on Summer to write the nastiest smut but this was ridiculously hot. Damn it ticked all my boxes. No slow burn in sight!!! I loved this from start to finish.
January 31, 2024
I'm glad to finally be back in the Fox world.
This one wasn't my favorite unfortunately, I felt like I was just reading smut the entire time, I wanted so much more out of the plot.
While reading the first 3 books I felt like I was in a different world, literally a part of the mafia it was incredible but with this one I just read about sex and a little murder mystery.
I will say that I did love how Loch and Stella complement each other so well. He needs someone to calm him down and she needs someone to loosen her up a bit.
This one wasn't my favorite unfortunately, I felt like I was just reading smut the entire time, I wanted so much more out of the plot.
While reading the first 3 books I felt like I was in a different world, literally a part of the mafia it was incredible but with this one I just read about sex and a little murder mystery.
I will say that I did love how Loch and Stella complement each other so well. He needs someone to calm him down and she needs someone to loosen her up a bit.
February 20, 2024
3/5⭐️
2.5/5🌶️
it took me so so long to get through this, but i did finally finish. needless to say, i have typically enjoyed reading this series but i just didn’t love this one as much. i felt like the murder mystery aspect of it was kind of messy and unclear and the storyline really just didn’t hook me in the way the other books of this series did. the spice was spicing, but i didn’t feel like that alone was enough to sustain this book for me
“loving her would be my greatest adventure yet”
2.5/5🌶️
it took me so so long to get through this, but i did finally finish. needless to say, i have typically enjoyed reading this series but i just didn’t love this one as much. i felt like the murder mystery aspect of it was kind of messy and unclear and the storyline really just didn’t hook me in the way the other books of this series did. the spice was spicing, but i didn’t feel like that alone was enough to sustain this book for me
“loving her would be my greatest adventure yet”
January 5, 2024
I’m so sad that this series is over but so satisfied that it ended well! Lochlan and Stella are one of the perfect friends to lovers arcs I’ve ever read, and I loved that they just fit together so perfectly. The plot was A1 as always when it comes to Summer’s books and the spice was delicious as well. All the Fox brothers and their girls have my heart. This book had me happy, sad, frustrated, sweating, kicking my feet and giggling, and then melancholy now that it’s all over. Another great book from Summer!
**On Summer’s ARC team, thank you for the ARC opportunity.
**On Summer’s ARC team, thank you for the ARC opportunity.
January 10, 2024
Loch was the perfect bookboyfriend ♥️
dnf
January 12, 2024No one can pay me enough money to suspend reality this hard
May 23, 2025
4.25 booooo so sad it’s over. i’ve loved stella and still do but i couldn’t help but feel so bad for loch☹️☹️
February 25, 2024
3.75 ⭐ 4 🌶️
Friends to lovers trope
Age gap (FMC is older)
I loved the murder mystery aspect of this story. For sure I thought someone else committed that murder but the twist was interesting.
My girl was really making Loch lose his mind thinking she doesn't feel the same way. But I'm glad she figured it out.
The Fox family when together you forget they're mafia 😂
Friends to lovers trope
Age gap (FMC is older)
I loved the murder mystery aspect of this story. For sure I thought someone else committed that murder but the twist was interesting.
My girl was really making Loch lose his mind thinking she doesn't feel the same way. But I'm glad she figured it out.
The Fox family when together you forget they're mafia 😂
February 26, 2025
ohhh Locky-Baby, the way this book had me laughing and blushing, good stuff
September 1, 2024
Friends to lovers romance with a dash of murder mystery & a whole lotta spice.
January 8, 2024
Screaming, cackling and kicking my feet. It’s day 6 of 2024 and I feel confident in saying this is my favorite book that’s come out all year! LET SUMMER COOK! This was the perfect end to my favorite psychopathic cinnamon roll brothers. When I read the foreword that the author worked with black women, while I thought it was nice that she as a white author went out of her way, including in the previous book (not trying to name names but some romance authors should take notes) to do this I didn’t think much of it. UNTIL ALL THE INCREDIBLE HAIR SCENES. My girl did the RESEARCH. I melted like a puddle reading those scenes and just AHHHHHH!
Also the soundtrack? Normally I don’t follow authors’ playlist, but I have made an exception for this series alone and it was perfect for this story down to the last song.
Also the soundtrack? Normally I don’t follow authors’ playlist, but I have made an exception for this series alone and it was perfect for this story down to the last song.
January 3, 2024
ARC REVIEW:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
I LOVED THIS 🙌🏼 this was definitely my favourite of the series 🔥🔥 I didn’t think I’d love Lochlan as much as I did, he was perfect ❤️🔥
I saw someone described Lochlan as an unhinged puppy and that couldn’t have been more accurate 😂
As with all the Fox brothers he deals with the family business and some of the darker elements, but he had such golden retriever energy but with a dirty mouth 🔥
I loved the banter between the two of them!!
If you haven’t read this series yet doooo ittttt 🙌🏼
Also just wanted to say this book has a perfect playlist! I don’t always listen to the playlist when reading books that have it, but I listened to this one at the exact moments the book tells you to start the songs and it was 🙌🏼 I felt like the songs fit each moment perfectly!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
I LOVED THIS 🙌🏼 this was definitely my favourite of the series 🔥🔥 I didn’t think I’d love Lochlan as much as I did, he was perfect ❤️🔥
I saw someone described Lochlan as an unhinged puppy and that couldn’t have been more accurate 😂
As with all the Fox brothers he deals with the family business and some of the darker elements, but he had such golden retriever energy but with a dirty mouth 🔥
I loved the banter between the two of them!!
If you haven’t read this series yet doooo ittttt 🙌🏼
Also just wanted to say this book has a perfect playlist! I don’t always listen to the playlist when reading books that have it, but I listened to this one at the exact moments the book tells you to start the songs and it was 🙌🏼 I felt like the songs fit each moment perfectly!
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