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Unlucky 13 #2
Wounded
Welcome to Black Diamond Resort and Spa… Where the rich and famous go to disappear. Some to relax, some to get sober. For me… It’s my last shot, my final chance at redemption. I’m hotheaded. Reckless. Self-Destructive. I don’t want to be here, but not doing so means losing everything I’ve worked my whole life for. It means losing my band. The only family and the only constant I’ve ever known. They say I have a problem. That I need help. I say it’s just part of fame. The drugs help numb the pain. Keep the demons away. I’m doing my best to keep my head down and bide my time until I can go home. Then he comes and makes himself at home at my breakfast table… Rowan Davies. Son of Hollywood’s most famous movie producer and my new pain in the ass. He’s nauseatingly cheerful. Buoyant. A presence refusing to be ignored. And he’s set his sights on me. He wants to fix me. Make me feel. He wants me to let him in. Love him. But he’s here against his will too. We’re both broken. Wounded where no one else can see. Is a bond derived from lies and vices really a bond at all, or only a setup for yet another epic failure?
354 pages, Paperback
Published June 18, 2023
157 people are currently reading
1472 people want to read
About the author
Ashley James
30 books1,406 followersAshley James is a romance author who enjoys writing (and reading) LGBTQIA+ books. She is from Washington State—and no, not Seattle—and currently resides in South Carolina with her two kids and hairless kitties, Goose, Maverick, and Houston. Ashley is introverted and slightly (okay, majorly) awkward. She refuses to make this section sound like a tacky dating app profile, so she won't be telling you how much she enjoys music, how she thoroughly enjoys dancing and singing in her kitchen, despite not being able to carry a tune, and she won't be telling you about her love of toxic and broken fictional men.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
June 29, 2023
***3.5 rating***
TW: Contains references to substance abuse and other themes that may be triggering
Wounded is the second book in this multiauthor series. The story takes place like the previous book at the Black Diamond Resort and Spa. The story is about a broody rock star, Caspian and Rowan, who is the son of Hollywood's most famous movie producer. Like the Andi Jaxon's book, Broken, controversial circumstances bring these two to Black Diamond. Black Diamond is not just a resort its a place that offers variety of services, some of them being rehab and therapy.
Cass is your typical hot grump and alphahole. He is the product of his harsh upbringing and environment. He never had an easy life until he had something of his own, which is escapism through music.
Rowan, who was my favorite in Wounded has immaculate golden retriever energy. Rowan loves to party. He has major abandonment issues thanks to his horrible narcissistic parents. They apparently forgot that nurturing a child is one the tasks of parenthood. I truly felt for Rowan. He deserved better than those people who sometimes forgot they had a child.
These two cross paths since they are at the resort. In fact, they are neighbors. One room apart from one another. Rowan is intrigued by Cass and his no nonsensical attitude toward everything. He makes it his mission to win Cass over and be his "friend".
How cute is he?🥺
But of course, being the alphahole that Cass is, he pays poor Rowan no mind. At first, he finds him annoying but also attractive?
Man can't help himself. He likes what he likes even if he comes in the form of persistent Rowan.
Cass's major "I give zero f**cks" attitude kind of annoyed me. He was so mean to Rowan. 😭
Like why? he is so cute how can you be such a douche to precious Rowan?
Despite his annoyance and need for personal space all the time, Rowan and Cass are forced to work together during therapy and other group activities at the resort. Cass slowly starts to like Rowan and wants to have his way with him physically.😏
The smut was just 🤌. The forest/wilderness scene had me shooketh, clutching my nonexistent pearls🙊. Their sex scenes were just wow. Ashley James knows her smut. The smut was my favorite aspect of the book. I found Cass not very likeable. He was so hot and cold with poor Rowan. The plot was also alright, I felt like the story needed to be longer for these two to establish some kind of emotional connection. Their chemistry felt like it was purely based on lust. I needed more to believe in them as a couple.
Overall, this had fantastic smut. If you enjoy AJ and her work, I am sure you will love this. This was my first read by Ashley James and I may check out her other books if the smut is anything similar to wounded.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
TW: Contains references to substance abuse and other themes that may be triggering
Wounded is the second book in this multiauthor series. The story takes place like the previous book at the Black Diamond Resort and Spa. The story is about a broody rock star, Caspian and Rowan, who is the son of Hollywood's most famous movie producer. Like the Andi Jaxon's book, Broken, controversial circumstances bring these two to Black Diamond. Black Diamond is not just a resort its a place that offers variety of services, some of them being rehab and therapy.
Cass is your typical hot grump and alphahole. He is the product of his harsh upbringing and environment. He never had an easy life until he had something of his own, which is escapism through music.
Rowan, who was my favorite in Wounded has immaculate golden retriever energy. Rowan loves to party. He has major abandonment issues thanks to his horrible narcissistic parents. They apparently forgot that nurturing a child is one the tasks of parenthood. I truly felt for Rowan. He deserved better than those people who sometimes forgot they had a child.
These two cross paths since they are at the resort. In fact, they are neighbors. One room apart from one another. Rowan is intrigued by Cass and his no nonsensical attitude toward everything. He makes it his mission to win Cass over and be his "friend".
How cute is he?🥺
But of course, being the alphahole that Cass is, he pays poor Rowan no mind. At first, he finds him annoying but also attractive?
Man can't help himself. He likes what he likes even if he comes in the form of persistent Rowan.
Cass's major "I give zero f**cks" attitude kind of annoyed me. He was so mean to Rowan. 😭
Like why? he is so cute how can you be such a douche to precious Rowan?
Despite his annoyance and need for personal space all the time, Rowan and Cass are forced to work together during therapy and other group activities at the resort. Cass slowly starts to like Rowan and wants to have his way with him physically.😏
The smut was just 🤌. The forest/wilderness scene had me shooketh, clutching my nonexistent pearls🙊. Their sex scenes were just wow. Ashley James knows her smut. The smut was my favorite aspect of the book. I found Cass not very likeable. He was so hot and cold with poor Rowan. The plot was also alright, I felt like the story needed to be longer for these two to establish some kind of emotional connection. Their chemistry felt like it was purely based on lust. I needed more to believe in them as a couple.
Overall, this had fantastic smut. If you enjoy AJ and her work, I am sure you will love this. This was my first read by Ashley James and I may check out her other books if the smut is anything similar to wounded.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 16, 2024
This was entertaining at best. At least it's better than the other two books that made me wanna drop this series. Lets talk about Caspian and Rowan
SPOILERS AHEAD‼️
Caspian:
I don't know if I liked him or hated him coz look at what he said to Rowan,
"You talk an awful fucking lot. Anybody ever told you that before?"
He chuckles. "Oh yeah, once or twice?
"So, shut the fuck up."
Not cool bro. I know he's supposed to be grumpy but if somene said that to me the earth better open up and swallow me whole. And this is what Rowan says about his therapist,
"..she makes me feel like what I have to say matters. Like she wants to hear it all. She never makes me feel like a bother, or like I annoy her, like everyone else in my life does."
But at the same time this is what his inner monologue looks like,
"Rowan. The annoying fucking guy who I can't stand most of the time. The beautiful, sexy man writhing underneath me. The one I think about more than I'd care to admit. The one who somehow manages to chip away at my walls, even if only for a few hours at a time before I'm able to find my senses outside of his presence and put them firmly back in place... until the next time. The one whose lips taste like spearmint and longing. Whose eyes are endless, reminding me of the beautiful landscape and luscious pastures back home. Reminding me of an easier time. A freer time. When the world was still at my fingertips. Before everything went to shit." PICK A SIDE BRO
Another thing I hated is how he always messes up but Rowan is the one who apologizes and tries to save their relationship and that just mad me so freaking mad.
"Sex has always been the one way i can make people see how great l am. It's how I can make people feel better. Sometimes I can be annoying with the things i say, but my body... My body can make everything right again."
This was Rowan trying to think of a way to make Caspian feel good.
Rowan:
I really loved him. He is the first book character that I related to. Everyone with abandonment issues RISE UP!
"I don't know why I lied. It's something I tend to do often, without even meaning to."
Its alright girl I get you.
How can you not love this man after what he did to cheer up Caspian?!
"The mug is white with black interior, and in black lettering, it says, 'Introverted but willing to discuss Greek mythology.'"
"There would be days on end, sometimes weeks, when she wouldn't even get out of bed. Dad would bring her food, try to force feed her. He'd give her sponge baths, brush her hair, sing her songs. My entire life, I never saw my dad give a single shit about anything the way he did with my
mom." - Caspian
..."When I'm feeling like shit or when I'm sad or having a bad day, a hot bubble bath always makes me feel better." - Rowan
He drew him a bath and bought him a mug!!! I need this man right tf now!!
I am still so freaking mad that rowan had to buy thirty concert tickets just to explain what happened to Caspian after Caspian freaking punched him. (He is filthy rich tho) Other than Caspian being so annoying somtimes i did enjoy this book. Plus the sex was amazing (Especially the forest scene and the morning after)
It's like whoever packed this bag for us, did it with the intention of filthy sex. Why else would there have been rope and lotion?
Who needs rope and lotion when going camping?
____________
Reading Update:
"CNC?"
My lip kicks up into a small smirk. "Consensual non-consent. Its a kink..."
Idk if I've said this before but I used to think CNC was some kind of news channel just December last year and mow I am actively seeking out books with this kink 😭😭
_______
Pre Read:
I didn't know if I would come back to this series after hating Broken and Exiled but I didn't want to skip the a 13 book series written by different authors just because I hated 2 books. Plus I love characters like Rowan so maybe i'll like his book 🤞🏼
SPOILERS AHEAD‼️
Caspian:
I don't know if I liked him or hated him coz look at what he said to Rowan,
"You talk an awful fucking lot. Anybody ever told you that before?"
He chuckles. "Oh yeah, once or twice?
"So, shut the fuck up."
Not cool bro. I know he's supposed to be grumpy but if somene said that to me the earth better open up and swallow me whole. And this is what Rowan says about his therapist,
"..she makes me feel like what I have to say matters. Like she wants to hear it all. She never makes me feel like a bother, or like I annoy her, like everyone else in my life does."
But at the same time this is what his inner monologue looks like,
"Rowan. The annoying fucking guy who I can't stand most of the time. The beautiful, sexy man writhing underneath me. The one I think about more than I'd care to admit. The one who somehow manages to chip away at my walls, even if only for a few hours at a time before I'm able to find my senses outside of his presence and put them firmly back in place... until the next time. The one whose lips taste like spearmint and longing. Whose eyes are endless, reminding me of the beautiful landscape and luscious pastures back home. Reminding me of an easier time. A freer time. When the world was still at my fingertips. Before everything went to shit." PICK A SIDE BRO
Another thing I hated is how he always messes up but Rowan is the one who apologizes and tries to save their relationship and that just mad me so freaking mad.
"Sex has always been the one way i can make people see how great l am. It's how I can make people feel better. Sometimes I can be annoying with the things i say, but my body... My body can make everything right again."
This was Rowan trying to think of a way to make Caspian feel good.
Rowan:
I really loved him. He is the first book character that I related to. Everyone with abandonment issues RISE UP!
"I don't know why I lied. It's something I tend to do often, without even meaning to."
Its alright girl I get you.
How can you not love this man after what he did to cheer up Caspian?!
"The mug is white with black interior, and in black lettering, it says, 'Introverted but willing to discuss Greek mythology.'"
"There would be days on end, sometimes weeks, when she wouldn't even get out of bed. Dad would bring her food, try to force feed her. He'd give her sponge baths, brush her hair, sing her songs. My entire life, I never saw my dad give a single shit about anything the way he did with my
mom." - Caspian
..."When I'm feeling like shit or when I'm sad or having a bad day, a hot bubble bath always makes me feel better." - Rowan
He drew him a bath and bought him a mug!!! I need this man right tf now!!
I am still so freaking mad that rowan had to buy thirty concert tickets just to explain what happened to Caspian after Caspian freaking punched him. (He is filthy rich tho) Other than Caspian being so annoying somtimes i did enjoy this book. Plus the sex was amazing (Especially the forest scene and the morning after)
It's like whoever packed this bag for us, did it with the intention of filthy sex. Why else would there have been rope and lotion?
Who needs rope and lotion when going camping?
____________
Reading Update:
"CNC?"
My lip kicks up into a small smirk. "Consensual non-consent. Its a kink..."
Idk if I've said this before but I used to think CNC was some kind of news channel just December last year and mow I am actively seeking out books with this kink 😭😭
_______
Pre Read:
I didn't know if I would come back to this series after hating Broken and Exiled but I didn't want to skip the a 13 book series written by different authors just because I hated 2 books. Plus I love characters like Rowan so maybe i'll like his book 🤞🏼
June 22, 2023
Wounded is a great emotional romance between Caspian and Rowan who both have had challenging life experiences and are forced into therapy and detox at Black Diamond Resort. Together they form a bond that is founded on honesty, forgiveness, and healing from past traumas. At times I found Cass difficult to understand, but his stubborn haughtiness is a great counter to Rowan's more open and friendly demeanor.
Overall Wounded is another great entry in this series that has such a strong emotional pull with a reassuring HEA.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story***
Overall Wounded is another great entry in this series that has such a strong emotional pull with a reassuring HEA.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story***
July 29, 2023
"Loving him is listening to a song so good, you get full-body chills and hot tears sting your eyes, but you don’t know why because it’s just that good.
Wounded by Ashley James book 2 in the standalone, multi-author, MM, Unlucky 13 series, which is set around an all inclusive, private resort built exclusively for the troubled elite. This is Caspian and Rowan's story.
Caspian is the grumpy, misunderstood, broken drummer in the rock band Wild Hearts and Rowan is the chatty, sunshiny socialite who is desperately lonely and looking for love.
"Maybe I am to the world who my dad was to my mom. Toxic. Wounded. Self-destructive. Maybe there’s no hope for me, and all of this will be for nothing."
Wounded has all the angst, a twist of k!nk and of course the trademark Ashley James high steam that we all know and love 😈.
"He looks like a fallen angel between my legs, with his dark hair in his face and his body decorated with black tattoos."
3.5-4 steamy stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wounded by Ashley James book 2 in the standalone, multi-author, MM, Unlucky 13 series, which is set around an all inclusive, private resort built exclusively for the troubled elite. This is Caspian and Rowan's story.
Caspian is the grumpy, misunderstood, broken drummer in the rock band Wild Hearts and Rowan is the chatty, sunshiny socialite who is desperately lonely and looking for love.
"Maybe I am to the world who my dad was to my mom. Toxic. Wounded. Self-destructive. Maybe there’s no hope for me, and all of this will be for nothing."
Wounded has all the angst, a twist of k!nk and of course the trademark Ashley James high steam that we all know and love 😈.
"He looks like a fallen angel between my legs, with his dark hair in his face and his body decorated with black tattoos."
3.5-4 steamy stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
July 10, 2024
I'm so conflicted about this book and thought about my rating for a long time
I really loved the first 70%- I loved Caspian and his grumpiness and watching him slowly open up to Rowan. I liked Rowan and thought they were really cute together. Loved the forced proximity of them being on the island and working on themselves while they get to know each other- I was thinking this would be a five star book.
**
spoilers
**
At 70% - Caspian takes Rowan's journal and reads it and completely misinterprets what he has read. This annoyed me because the "misinterpretation miscommunication" thing is just so annoying to me. Anything can be misinterpreted out of context so I hated that this was what set off their third act conflict, I was already thinking four stars
But then-
during their fight Caspian gets so mad he punches Rowan in the face.
That just ruined the whole book for me. I feel like if a friend of mine or one of my children (in the far future, they are young now lol) came up to me and said they got in a fight with their partner and their partner punched them- I would absolutely tell them to leave and never look back, I would not be able to support that relationship at all- so it felt weird that I was supposed to keep supporting this couple and want them to end up together? I just couldn't get on board with this pairing after that.
Oh and to make it worse- in the end, Rowan is the one groveling and doing a grand gesture to Caspian and apologizing for the journal misunderstanding. Caspian does eventually say "sorry for hitting you" but that's it.
I don't understand why the author included this? I really loved the book up to that point, why couldn't the author just have had Caspian storm off in anger? Really ruined the book
I really loved the first 70%- I loved Caspian and his grumpiness and watching him slowly open up to Rowan. I liked Rowan and thought they were really cute together. Loved the forced proximity of them being on the island and working on themselves while they get to know each other- I was thinking this would be a five star book.
**
spoilers
**
At 70% - Caspian takes Rowan's journal and reads it and completely misinterprets what he has read. This annoyed me because the "misinterpretation miscommunication" thing is just so annoying to me. Anything can be misinterpreted out of context so I hated that this was what set off their third act conflict, I was already thinking four stars
But then-
during their fight Caspian gets so mad he punches Rowan in the face.
That just ruined the whole book for me. I feel like if a friend of mine or one of my children (in the far future, they are young now lol) came up to me and said they got in a fight with their partner and their partner punched them- I would absolutely tell them to leave and never look back, I would not be able to support that relationship at all- so it felt weird that I was supposed to keep supporting this couple and want them to end up together? I just couldn't get on board with this pairing after that.
Oh and to make it worse- in the end, Rowan is the one groveling and doing a grand gesture to Caspian and apologizing for the journal misunderstanding. Caspian does eventually say "sorry for hitting you" but that's it.
I don't understand why the author included this? I really loved the book up to that point, why couldn't the author just have had Caspian storm off in anger? Really ruined the book
June 20, 2023
3/5 stars
This was definitely better than the bullshit that I had to deal with in the last book. There’s just something that always gets to me for Ashley James books. I never like them or just think they are average. I think this falls under average-ish. I didn’t particularly like the characters that much, but they weren’t bad. I just didn’t like how quickly everything was resolved? Like I wish the ending focused more on their trauma that they faced with in the past. It was have been nice if one or both saw a therapist more often like they did while at the resort.
“Shit, princess,” I groan, my head falling back onto my shoulders. “You feel like fucking heaven wrapped around me.”
One thing though that Ashley James can do? The smut. I loved seeing Caspian having a primal kink. Also him calling Rowen “princess” was everything to me. Again it was tiny things that got me. But other than it was fine. I do want to see more of the band though. They were interesting for the little time they appeared.
This was definitely better than the bullshit that I had to deal with in the last book. There’s just something that always gets to me for Ashley James books. I never like them or just think they are average. I think this falls under average-ish. I didn’t particularly like the characters that much, but they weren’t bad. I just didn’t like how quickly everything was resolved? Like I wish the ending focused more on their trauma that they faced with in the past. It was have been nice if one or both saw a therapist more often like they did while at the resort.
“Shit, princess,” I groan, my head falling back onto my shoulders. “You feel like fucking heaven wrapped around me.”
One thing though that Ashley James can do? The smut. I loved seeing Caspian having a primal kink. Also him calling Rowen “princess” was everything to me. Again it was tiny things that got me. But other than it was fine. I do want to see more of the band though. They were interesting for the little time they appeared.
January 26, 2024
Audio: 4 stars, when both Nick J Russo and Iggy Toma try to do Caspian's Scottish accent.. it lowered my rating/ enjoyment hahah they aren't very good at accents especially Iggy Toma!
Book: 3 stars
this was pretty good for my first Ashley James book. I wasn't a huge fan of Caspian's hot and cold act.. I could understand it at the beginning, but at the end, no Rowan deserved better!
I loved Rowan and his golden retriever energy! haha
Seeing as this is a series of interconnected standalones by different authors, I am not in a rush to continue. I am glad I gave this one a go, but it is going to be a little forgettable...
Book: 3 stars
this was pretty good for my first Ashley James book. I wasn't a huge fan of Caspian's hot and cold act.. I could understand it at the beginning, but at the end, no Rowan deserved better!
I loved Rowan and his golden retriever energy! haha
Seeing as this is a series of interconnected standalones by different authors, I am not in a rush to continue. I am glad I gave this one a go, but it is going to be a little forgettable...
August 24, 2024
(Took away a star due to a fairly large issue that I listed below under a spoiler tag.)
Two broken men. One loves too hard while the other fights to let himself be loved.
....
"The attraction, the vibe, the raw fucking chemistry between us is undeniable at this point. I hate the pull, the draw between us, like two life-forces destined to lock together. The more I shut him out, the harder he pushes back. The more I try to ignore him, the more he plagues my mind."
....
"I want to keep this forever. Have him look at me like this every single day. I'd never question my worth. Not with eyes like that."
....
"He's worse than any other drug I've ever consumed. It'll never be enough."
....
"Fuck princess, do you have any fucking idea how beautiful you look right now?"
....
***Possible spoilers in tropes and triggers below
*** also spoilery complaint below
Tropes:
Strangers to enemies to lovers
Rockstar
Primal kink
CNC
Grumpy sunshine
Forced proximity
Strict roles right up until the very last chapter, where they switch after a bet
TWs:
Addiction
Drug use
Rehab
Abusive parents/guardians
Childhood trauma
Violence between MCs
Abandonment issues
Mental illness
At one point Caspian reads Roman's journal why he's showering and sees that it's filled with their times together. Instead of being flattered he decides Rowan must be a spy hired by his band manager. Like really, what the fuck. He then proceeds to punch Rowan in the face, therefore getting himself kicked out of the facility early. I felt like there was next to no groveling here. It was Rowan that ended up explaining himself to Caspian and that was back asswards to me. Caspian should have been apologized profusely and groveling his ass off.
Two broken men. One loves too hard while the other fights to let himself be loved.
....
"The attraction, the vibe, the raw fucking chemistry between us is undeniable at this point. I hate the pull, the draw between us, like two life-forces destined to lock together. The more I shut him out, the harder he pushes back. The more I try to ignore him, the more he plagues my mind."
....
"I want to keep this forever. Have him look at me like this every single day. I'd never question my worth. Not with eyes like that."
....
"He's worse than any other drug I've ever consumed. It'll never be enough."
....
"Fuck princess, do you have any fucking idea how beautiful you look right now?"
....
***Possible spoilers in tropes and triggers below
*** also spoilery complaint below
Tropes:
Strangers to enemies to lovers
Rockstar
Primal kink
CNC
Grumpy sunshine
Forced proximity
Strict roles right up until the very last chapter, where they switch after a bet
TWs:
Addiction
Drug use
Rehab
Abusive parents/guardians
Childhood trauma
Violence between MCs
Abandonment issues
Mental illness
At one point Caspian reads Roman's journal why he's showering and sees that it's filled with their times together. Instead of being flattered he decides Rowan must be a spy hired by his band manager. Like really, what the fuck. He then proceeds to punch Rowan in the face, therefore getting himself kicked out of the facility early. I felt like there was next to no groveling here. It was Rowan that ended up explaining himself to Caspian and that was back asswards to me. Caspian should have been apologized profusely and groveling his ass off.
June 30, 2023
Loved this story, Grumpy with a big fat chip on his shoulder drummer and a ray of sunshine socialite that don’t take no for an answer!
Caspian has pushed his band to far, a tragedy that happened in his room was the last straw, he was packed off to Black Diamond to rehab and to stay out of the press. He’s a moody arse and don’t want to talk to no one or join in any session, until Mr Blueberry picker enters his space. The annoying food stealer won’t leave him alone even when he gets a fist to the face!! The only thing he can do is, try to ignore him, but easier said than done!!
Rowen is driving his parents and the hotel he’s staying in, mad! They are sick of his partying ways and his parents feel he needs an intervention, so ship him off to rehab. Even though he’s stuck on an island with no cell signal he try’s to make the best of it, attends his sessions, writes in his journal and winds up Mr grumpy pants just by breathing!! But he’s not deterred, after all he’s been told he can talk anyone round!!
I loved the way these two feed off each other, I loved that Rowan was not put off by a bit of hard work, slowly breaking down the walls Caspian had put up, and in doing so his started to crumble too. They helped each other to over come trauma of their pasts and learn to trust again. Even though their relationship was anything but plain sailing, they had a caring closeness, a bond that tied them together even when they were apart. Of course there was super hot spicy times, I loved all the spicy positions they get into, sometimes in books they stick to the same pattern and it can become boring, so I loved it all in this book!!
Great 2nd book in the series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
TW - addiction/drug use/death of side character
🔶Grumpy Rockstar
🔶Rich Socialite with GoldenDoodle Energy
🔶"Music is my Love Language"
🔶A Splash of Primal K!nk
🔶Tropical Island Vibes
Caspian has pushed his band to far, a tragedy that happened in his room was the last straw, he was packed off to Black Diamond to rehab and to stay out of the press. He’s a moody arse and don’t want to talk to no one or join in any session, until Mr Blueberry picker enters his space. The annoying food stealer won’t leave him alone even when he gets a fist to the face!! The only thing he can do is, try to ignore him, but easier said than done!!
Rowen is driving his parents and the hotel he’s staying in, mad! They are sick of his partying ways and his parents feel he needs an intervention, so ship him off to rehab. Even though he’s stuck on an island with no cell signal he try’s to make the best of it, attends his sessions, writes in his journal and winds up Mr grumpy pants just by breathing!! But he’s not deterred, after all he’s been told he can talk anyone round!!
I loved the way these two feed off each other, I loved that Rowan was not put off by a bit of hard work, slowly breaking down the walls Caspian had put up, and in doing so his started to crumble too. They helped each other to over come trauma of their pasts and learn to trust again. Even though their relationship was anything but plain sailing, they had a caring closeness, a bond that tied them together even when they were apart. Of course there was super hot spicy times, I loved all the spicy positions they get into, sometimes in books they stick to the same pattern and it can become boring, so I loved it all in this book!!
Great 2nd book in the series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
TW - addiction/drug use/death of side character
🔶Grumpy Rockstar
🔶Rich Socialite with GoldenDoodle Energy
🔶"Music is my Love Language"
🔶A Splash of Primal K!nk
🔶Tropical Island Vibes
April 25, 2024
3.5 star- Offended and kinda annoyed that Caspian was so mean to Rowan for so long, I get why but it took so long for Cas to realize how amazing Rowan is.
Also, I love that Ashley adds a song playlist with every book and mentions songs to go with the mood.
Also, I love that Ashley adds a song playlist with every book and mentions songs to go with the mood.
June 11, 2023
Wounded by Ashley James is book 2 in the multi authors Unlucky 13 series.
This book had me worried for a while. It took me longer than normal to get into the story in a book written by Ashley. I was a little annoyed by Rowan's character, in fact probably as much as Caspian was. His intensity and his way of imposing himself in every situation exasperated me. And as for Caspian, it was hard to find anything endearing about him. I also found myself searching for that emotion Ashley has accustomed me to finding in each of her books.
There was a very good reason why things happened the way they did in Wounded. Both Rowan and Caspian had erected huge walls behind which they protected themselves in order not to be hurt by the people around them. So it took a long time before they slowly began to open up to each other. And consequently also with the reader. And when they did let us in, that was a game changer for me. It was through these moments of vulnerability that I found myself becoming attached to them and rooting for them. It was beautiful to see them come to terms with their feelings for each other and give one another the chance to try, even at the risk of being hurt. They had come so far, and by the end of the book, I was completely won over by these two wounded men. I was a fool to doubt Ashley. So this is my sincere apology.
I'm still unsure if I like the island setting for this series. I sometimes felt that there wasn't much going on, and I was kind of relieved that we left the island towards the end of the book.
As much as it was a surprise for Rowan and Caspian, I was as crazy as they were about how Capian used "princess" as an endearment for Rowan. It brought a lot of heat to the dirty talk, which was perfectly on point. As always, Ashley brought the steam and it was perfect. I love rimming scenes and was delighted with the ones in Wounded.
Ashley James always manages to surprise me and make me feel so many emotions. There's a reason she's my favorite author.
This book had me worried for a while. It took me longer than normal to get into the story in a book written by Ashley. I was a little annoyed by Rowan's character, in fact probably as much as Caspian was. His intensity and his way of imposing himself in every situation exasperated me. And as for Caspian, it was hard to find anything endearing about him. I also found myself searching for that emotion Ashley has accustomed me to finding in each of her books.
There was a very good reason why things happened the way they did in Wounded. Both Rowan and Caspian had erected huge walls behind which they protected themselves in order not to be hurt by the people around them. So it took a long time before they slowly began to open up to each other. And consequently also with the reader. And when they did let us in, that was a game changer for me. It was through these moments of vulnerability that I found myself becoming attached to them and rooting for them. It was beautiful to see them come to terms with their feelings for each other and give one another the chance to try, even at the risk of being hurt. They had come so far, and by the end of the book, I was completely won over by these two wounded men. I was a fool to doubt Ashley. So this is my sincere apology.
I'm still unsure if I like the island setting for this series. I sometimes felt that there wasn't much going on, and I was kind of relieved that we left the island towards the end of the book.
As much as it was a surprise for Rowan and Caspian, I was as crazy as they were about how Capian used "princess" as an endearment for Rowan. It brought a lot of heat to the dirty talk, which was perfectly on point. As always, Ashley brought the steam and it was perfect. I love rimming scenes and was delighted with the ones in Wounded.
Ashley James always manages to surprise me and make me feel so many emotions. There's a reason she's my favorite author.
July 23, 2024
Uuummm yeah this was f*cking great.
Also, I'm on a bit of a Rockstar romance journey, so yeah, perfect for that.
👌👌👌
I loved both Caspian and Rowan - their romance bloomed nicely, somehow I blew through this romance so fast, which means for me - great read.
There are some serious themes involved, including an overdose (not MC's), mental health issues, and other assorted CW's, so be mindful of that. This is my first book in this series, but because this one is written by Ashley James, you KNOW the spice will be spicing and the romance will be cute AF.
Which it was. Caspian was a bit ott for a drummer. But his character totally quenched my Rockstar Romance thirst. Also, there was a very dynamic push/pull between them, and Caspian was a paranoid douche at times, which rounded off their interactions nicely.
So for a not overly complicated grumpy sunshine rockstar romance with serious topics I highly recommend.
Also, I'm on a bit of a Rockstar romance journey, so yeah, perfect for that.
👌👌👌
I loved both Caspian and Rowan - their romance bloomed nicely, somehow I blew through this romance so fast, which means for me - great read.
There are some serious themes involved, including an overdose (not MC's), mental health issues, and other assorted CW's, so be mindful of that. This is my first book in this series, but because this one is written by Ashley James, you KNOW the spice will be spicing and the romance will be cute AF.
Which it was. Caspian was a bit ott for a drummer. But his character totally quenched my Rockstar Romance thirst. Also, there was a very dynamic push/pull between them, and Caspian was a paranoid douche at times, which rounded off their interactions nicely.
So for a not overly complicated grumpy sunshine rockstar romance with serious topics I highly recommend.
July 11, 2024
Rowan kind of broke my heart 😭 definitely a character who was really in need of a good hug.
Really liked the relationship between Rowan and Caspian, even though some parts were really OTT and unbelievable. Also found it weird that they don't mention safe sex until almost the end of the book!
I'd actually like to see where they end up after the tour finished though, because we never got to see how they are together in a relationship that happens in their 'regular' day to day lives, not rehab or on a world tour.
Really liked the relationship between Rowan and Caspian, even though some parts were really OTT and unbelievable. Also found it weird that they don't mention safe sex until almost the end of the book!
I'd actually like to see where they end up after the tour finished though, because we never got to see how they are together in a relationship that happens in their 'regular' day to day lives, not rehab or on a world tour.
July 13, 2023
Overall, I loved this. Honestly, I would have give this 5 stars if several things hadn't bothered me.
Because I absolutely loved Caspian and Rowan together. They had great chemistry, especially once Caspian started to loosen up a bit and respond back to Rowan's clear offers of friendship.
Caspian has had a really tough life. His mother was mentally ill - I suspect, bipolar disorder, with how he describes her behavior - but left when he was about 5 or 6. His father was a famous rock musician, but he died when Caspian was 7 because of drugs and alcohol he was addicted to.
Caspian then had to move t0 the US from Scotland to live with his Aunt, who was also a drug addict, and kind of addicted to men. Caspian lived in abject poverty from 7 until he could leave at 18, and dealt with all manner of men his aunt brought home. From not as horrible to really horrible, depending on the man.
In present day, Caspian is 24, in a fairly famous rock band, and kind of spiraling. He loses himself in hard drugs, especially cocaine, on the regular, and when he brings a woman back to his hotel after a show, they both take speedballs, which are cocaine and heroine together. The woman ends up overdosing and dying, and Caspian, since he was there, gets in trouble for it.
To save his reputation and image, the band manager Sebastian sends him to Black Diamond to get help and shape up, or apparently he'll be kicked out of the band.
Caspian could give a fuck about his image and reputation, but the band is everything to him, so he does what he has to to stay in the band.
Rowan is the son of a super model and a Hollywood producer, who seem to love each other, but don't love him. It's clear they never wanted any children, and regret having him.
To compensate for being unloved and unwanted, Rowan surrounds himself with people, gets attached too easily, and parties a little too much.
After one such party, his parents see the aftermath and send him to Black Diamond as well.
Rowan, it's clear, doesn't have a drug problem, he does it more recreationally at parties.
But Caspian, it felt like, had a problem. One of my issues with this is how dependent Caspian seemed on drugs at first, before going to Black Diamond, but then once he's there it's NBD for him to stop them. Even before he finds himself falling for Rowan, who makes him so happy, it's not a problem for him to stop the drugs.
But he seemed so desperate for them before the OD with the woman happened that I was a little confused by this. He didn't even go through withdrawal, so why was his drug use apparently so bad it was affecting the band? Or why was Sebastian, the band manager, focusing so much on him, when all the other band members did drugs? Was it all because Caspian didn't put on an act when in public? If that's it, that's so flimsy a reason, to me, fo Sebastian to want to conflate his drug problems and potentially get rid of him.
And also, despite Sebastian's clear problems with Caspian, he's never fired as manager or at the very least, nothing comes from his obvious meddling, trying to force Caspian out of the band, and his irrational hatred of Caspian. It just kind of blows over and that's that.
So to me, either Caspian should have had a real drug problem, or a better motivation should have been given for Sebastian wanted Caspian out of the bad so badly and why he disliked him so much, more than just...Caspian doesn't put on an act in public and is partying too much or whatever. Either he's spiraling and Sebastian's grievances are legit, or not.
My second issue came when the big drama happens. This was going along so well, and I was really loving these two. Their chemistry was so so good and they just sizzled together on the page, the sex was so so hot and well done.
Seeing Caspian slowly start to open up to Rowan was amazing. And Rowan was adorable in his earnestness with Caspian, in wanting the person he wanted to want him back, and being tentatively hopeful that Caspian would. His nerves when he tried to cheer Caspian up from a clear depressive episode were adorable and so sweet.
But then and I got really pissed off at Caspian. Not only did he .
I was angry that the book just speeds right over what Caspian did wrong there. It became all about the issue Caspian made up in his head, and he became the wronged party, even though what he did was WORSE.
And what annoyed me more was that Rowan wasn't even pissed about that. He should have been. Instead HE has to be the one chasing after Caspian to try to get Caspian to talk to him and hear him out.
It was...truly wild. Caspian never even apologizes for and Rowan doesn't even ask for one. I know for sure Caspian would have been angry if Rowan had done the same thing to him.
URGH that was my biggest grievance and my biggest reason for the star off. The Sebastian thing and wether Caspian was on his way to addiction or not, not as big of a deal.
I can even more forgive the book for not following up on Caspian's mental health issues. He was either severely depressed, with good days in between the bad bouts, or he was bipolar. But who knows? The book doesn't tell us. Caspian never gets help aside from the therapist on the island. But the way he describes how he gets in these black moods, how he can barely get out of bed for days on end...that's not good. He needed professional help and that's just glossed over. Especially once he leaves the island and doesn't even have the therapist on the island.
Honestly, he needed a psychologist too, one that could prescribe him medication. Whether for depression or bipolar disorder, whichever. But there was just...nothing. Like he can just go back to his life, no possible drug problem, no mental health issues, all because of his love for Rowan. Which yes, make things better, but it's no cure or anything.
We even see, on the island, that he's happy with Rowan but feels the darkness creeping in and it affects their relationship - even though Rowan turns it around with his sweet and adorable gestures - and the book even states that it won't stop the dark days from coming. SO?! Where is this man's professional help? Professional diagnosis?!
He either has what his mother had, or something similar, and he and Rowan will not work in the long run if he does not get help, so this part did bother me.
But. BUT. While those two other things bothered me, the just pissed me off.
While I tried to let it go, Caspian was pissing me off with his attitude. I don't care even if Rowan
It gave me STRONG Dawson vibes, for what he does to Joey and I HATE Dawson, so that wasn't a good feeling to have.
And I loved Caspian, I did, so his shitty behavior and the books glossing over of that really was a hard pill to swallow for me.
Caspian does apologize for believing the worst in Rowan, and for punching him - which, yes, he does when in distress, but oohhh I wanted him to feel so very guilty for that when he realized how wrong he was - but he never apologizes !! It's just a non-thing and oh how that annoyed the crap out of me.
I so wanted to give this 5 stars. Take out at least my two biggest grievances, the above and the handling of Caspian's mental health, and this would have been 5 stars, easy. But I couldn't let those things go, they annoyed me so much, especially the thing.
The rest of this book without them, though? Wonderful, amazing, I couldn't get enough of it. Definitely worth a read, and definitely a stronger installment then the first in this series. Even with my issues after the big drama near the end, I did still love these two and their connection so much.
Just too bad it had those issues, because I had the itch to give this 5 stars with how much I loved everything else.
But I couldn't, unfortunately. I would say this was my favorite Ashley James novel if it hadn't been for those issues. A shame.
Well....onto the next!
My Ratings for the Unlucky 13 Series:
✨ Broken: A Black Diamond Novel by Andi Jaxon: 3 stars (my review)
✨ Wounded by Ashley James: 4 stars
✨ Unfortunate by Nicole Dykes: TBR
Because I absolutely loved Caspian and Rowan together. They had great chemistry, especially once Caspian started to loosen up a bit and respond back to Rowan's clear offers of friendship.
Caspian has had a really tough life. His mother was mentally ill - I suspect, bipolar disorder, with how he describes her behavior - but left when he was about 5 or 6. His father was a famous rock musician, but he died when Caspian was 7 because of drugs and alcohol he was addicted to.
Caspian then had to move t0 the US from Scotland to live with his Aunt, who was also a drug addict, and kind of addicted to men. Caspian lived in abject poverty from 7 until he could leave at 18, and dealt with all manner of men his aunt brought home. From not as horrible to really horrible, depending on the man.
In present day, Caspian is 24, in a fairly famous rock band, and kind of spiraling. He loses himself in hard drugs, especially cocaine, on the regular, and when he brings a woman back to his hotel after a show, they both take speedballs, which are cocaine and heroine together. The woman ends up overdosing and dying, and Caspian, since he was there, gets in trouble for it.
To save his reputation and image, the band manager Sebastian sends him to Black Diamond to get help and shape up, or apparently he'll be kicked out of the band.
Caspian could give a fuck about his image and reputation, but the band is everything to him, so he does what he has to to stay in the band.
Rowan is the son of a super model and a Hollywood producer, who seem to love each other, but don't love him. It's clear they never wanted any children, and regret having him.
To compensate for being unloved and unwanted, Rowan surrounds himself with people, gets attached too easily, and parties a little too much.
After one such party, his parents see the aftermath and send him to Black Diamond as well.
Rowan, it's clear, doesn't have a drug problem, he does it more recreationally at parties.
But Caspian, it felt like, had a problem. One of my issues with this is how dependent Caspian seemed on drugs at first, before going to Black Diamond, but then once he's there it's NBD for him to stop them. Even before he finds himself falling for Rowan, who makes him so happy, it's not a problem for him to stop the drugs.
But he seemed so desperate for them before the OD with the woman happened that I was a little confused by this. He didn't even go through withdrawal, so why was his drug use apparently so bad it was affecting the band? Or why was Sebastian, the band manager, focusing so much on him, when all the other band members did drugs? Was it all because Caspian didn't put on an act when in public? If that's it, that's so flimsy a reason, to me, fo Sebastian to want to conflate his drug problems and potentially get rid of him.
And also, despite Sebastian's clear problems with Caspian, he's never fired as manager or at the very least, nothing comes from his obvious meddling, trying to force Caspian out of the band, and his irrational hatred of Caspian. It just kind of blows over and that's that.
So to me, either Caspian should have had a real drug problem, or a better motivation should have been given for Sebastian wanted Caspian out of the bad so badly and why he disliked him so much, more than just...Caspian doesn't put on an act in public and is partying too much or whatever. Either he's spiraling and Sebastian's grievances are legit, or not.
My second issue came when the big drama happens. This was going along so well, and I was really loving these two. Their chemistry was so so good and they just sizzled together on the page, the sex was so so hot and well done.
Seeing Caspian slowly start to open up to Rowan was amazing. And Rowan was adorable in his earnestness with Caspian, in wanting the person he wanted to want him back, and being tentatively hopeful that Caspian would. His nerves when he tried to cheer Caspian up from a clear depressive episode were adorable and so sweet.
But then and I got really pissed off at Caspian. Not only did he .
I was angry that the book just speeds right over what Caspian did wrong there. It became all about the issue Caspian made up in his head, and he became the wronged party, even though what he did was WORSE.
And what annoyed me more was that Rowan wasn't even pissed about that. He should have been. Instead HE has to be the one chasing after Caspian to try to get Caspian to talk to him and hear him out.
It was...truly wild. Caspian never even apologizes for and Rowan doesn't even ask for one. I know for sure Caspian would have been angry if Rowan had done the same thing to him.
URGH that was my biggest grievance and my biggest reason for the star off. The Sebastian thing and wether Caspian was on his way to addiction or not, not as big of a deal.
I can even more forgive the book for not following up on Caspian's mental health issues. He was either severely depressed, with good days in between the bad bouts, or he was bipolar. But who knows? The book doesn't tell us. Caspian never gets help aside from the therapist on the island. But the way he describes how he gets in these black moods, how he can barely get out of bed for days on end...that's not good. He needed professional help and that's just glossed over. Especially once he leaves the island and doesn't even have the therapist on the island.
Honestly, he needed a psychologist too, one that could prescribe him medication. Whether for depression or bipolar disorder, whichever. But there was just...nothing. Like he can just go back to his life, no possible drug problem, no mental health issues, all because of his love for Rowan. Which yes, make things better, but it's no cure or anything.
We even see, on the island, that he's happy with Rowan but feels the darkness creeping in and it affects their relationship - even though Rowan turns it around with his sweet and adorable gestures - and the book even states that it won't stop the dark days from coming. SO?! Where is this man's professional help? Professional diagnosis?!
He either has what his mother had, or something similar, and he and Rowan will not work in the long run if he does not get help, so this part did bother me.
But. BUT. While those two other things bothered me, the just pissed me off.
While I tried to let it go, Caspian was pissing me off with his attitude. I don't care even if Rowan
It gave me STRONG Dawson vibes, for what he does to Joey and I HATE Dawson, so that wasn't a good feeling to have.
And I loved Caspian, I did, so his shitty behavior and the books glossing over of that really was a hard pill to swallow for me.
Caspian does apologize for believing the worst in Rowan, and for punching him - which, yes, he does when in distress, but oohhh I wanted him to feel so very guilty for that when he realized how wrong he was - but he never apologizes !! It's just a non-thing and oh how that annoyed the crap out of me.
I so wanted to give this 5 stars. Take out at least my two biggest grievances, the above and the handling of Caspian's mental health, and this would have been 5 stars, easy. But I couldn't let those things go, they annoyed me so much, especially the thing.
The rest of this book without them, though? Wonderful, amazing, I couldn't get enough of it. Definitely worth a read, and definitely a stronger installment then the first in this series. Even with my issues after the big drama near the end, I did still love these two and their connection so much.
Just too bad it had those issues, because I had the itch to give this 5 stars with how much I loved everything else.
But I couldn't, unfortunately. I would say this was my favorite Ashley James novel if it hadn't been for those issues. A shame.
Well....onto the next!
My Ratings for the Unlucky 13 Series:
✨ Broken: A Black Diamond Novel by Andi Jaxon: 3 stars (my review)
✨ Wounded by Ashley James: 4 stars
✨ Unfortunate by Nicole Dykes: TBR
June 3, 2023
4.5 stars. I am absolutely loving this multi-author series. This is the second book I’ve read so far and it was awesome. The last multi-author series I just had a theme in common. I love how this series has the Black Diamond Resort in common and some characters have popped up in both books so far. They can 100% be read as standalones though.
Rowan and Caspian were a lot of fun to read about. They have had really crappy lives and end up at the rehab centre together at Black Diamond. Saying that though I felt this story wasn’t as angsty as I was expecting and I really enjoyed that.
I really loved the things they learned at rehab about their relationships and how it really helped them with their mental health. Seeing Caspian let someone in and get close to him was awesome and I loved them together. I absolutely loved how candid and blunt Rowan was.
If you love this author or are even just following along with this series I absolutely recommend this book! I cannot wait to continue reading more in this series!
Rowan and Caspian were a lot of fun to read about. They have had really crappy lives and end up at the rehab centre together at Black Diamond. Saying that though I felt this story wasn’t as angsty as I was expecting and I really enjoyed that.
I really loved the things they learned at rehab about their relationships and how it really helped them with their mental health. Seeing Caspian let someone in and get close to him was awesome and I loved them together. I absolutely loved how candid and blunt Rowan was.
If you love this author or are even just following along with this series I absolutely recommend this book! I cannot wait to continue reading more in this series!
June 13, 2023
Really enjoyed Cass and Rowans story and have to say I enjoyed the steam in this book. It was hot.
These boys were both having to stay at the resort by force of outside concerns. I liked how that the reasons were very similar. I did really feel for Rowan though, I liked how Ashley got across that loneliness he felt behind the party boy facade. It was entertaining watching him try to get Cass attention.
Cass was layers of different issues and emotions which I found hard to keep up with at points.
But seeing them come together and admit their feelings was gorgeous and they really do complement one another. Great addition to the Diamond series.
These boys were both having to stay at the resort by force of outside concerns. I liked how that the reasons were very similar. I did really feel for Rowan though, I liked how Ashley got across that loneliness he felt behind the party boy facade. It was entertaining watching him try to get Cass attention.
Cass was layers of different issues and emotions which I found hard to keep up with at points.
But seeing them come together and admit their feelings was gorgeous and they really do complement one another. Great addition to the Diamond series.
June 2, 2023
We're back at Black Diamond Resort, and this time seeing the rehab side of the island!
Wounded follows Rowan and Caspian, both forced into rehab for their wild ways, and both suffering from abandonment issues.
Rowan has been forgotten by his parents and all his friends are surface level fakes, and has the terrible habit of latching on to people. Meanwhile Caspian keeps everyone at arms length thanks to all the issues he had with his parents and his god awful aunt.
The two are opposites in so many ways, and have a rocky start, but Rowan breaks down all of Caspian's walls and in turn Cas makes Rowan feel safe and calm. Their story has so much hurt, but their happy ending is so deserved after everything they've been through.
Wounded follows Rowan and Caspian, both forced into rehab for their wild ways, and both suffering from abandonment issues.
Rowan has been forgotten by his parents and all his friends are surface level fakes, and has the terrible habit of latching on to people. Meanwhile Caspian keeps everyone at arms length thanks to all the issues he had with his parents and his god awful aunt.
The two are opposites in so many ways, and have a rocky start, but Rowan breaks down all of Caspian's walls and in turn Cas makes Rowan feel safe and calm. Their story has so much hurt, but their happy ending is so deserved after everything they've been through.
October 28, 2023
𝑾𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝑨𝒔𝒉𝒍𝒆𝒚 𝑱𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔
ℂ𝕒𝕤𝕡𝕚𝕒𝕟 𝕒𝕟𝕕 ℝ𝕠𝕨𝕒𝕟
« I'm set for ruin. And Rowan will be my destruction. »
x ᴍᴍ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
x ʀᴏᴄᴋꜱᴛᴀʀ/ꜱᴏᴄɪᴀʟɪᴛᴇ
x ᴘʀɪᴍᴀʟ ᴋɪɴᴋ
x ᴏᴘᴘᴏꜱɪᴛᴇꜱ ᴀᴛᴛʀᴀᴄᴛ
x ᴛʀᴏᴘɪᴄᴀʟ ɪꜱʟᴀɴᴅ ᴠɪʙᴇꜱ
x ɢʀᴜᴍᴘʏ/ꜱᴜɴꜱʜɪɴᴇ
Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Steam: 3/5 🔥
𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘
This series is really starting out strong and I can't wait to see how the rest comes along! This is the second book in the series and my favourite so far. It was lower angst than I normally expect from Ashley but no less amazing, in fact it was more of a refreshing read that I desperately needed! Rowan and Caspian were such a delight to read, both in dire need of an intervention and respite from the hurt they both have buried deep inside. I loved that even though they are opposite in every way, they are perfect for breaking down each other's walls, brick by brick, and not without some delicious spice along the way! I really enjoyed how everything wasn't solved magically, that they had to work for their happiness, but it was such an amazing read and I cannot wait for the rest of the series!
ℂ𝕒𝕤𝕡𝕚𝕒𝕟 𝕒𝕟𝕕 ℝ𝕠𝕨𝕒𝕟
« I'm set for ruin. And Rowan will be my destruction. »
x ᴍᴍ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
x ʀᴏᴄᴋꜱᴛᴀʀ/ꜱᴏᴄɪᴀʟɪᴛᴇ
x ᴘʀɪᴍᴀʟ ᴋɪɴᴋ
x ᴏᴘᴘᴏꜱɪᴛᴇꜱ ᴀᴛᴛʀᴀᴄᴛ
x ᴛʀᴏᴘɪᴄᴀʟ ɪꜱʟᴀɴᴅ ᴠɪʙᴇꜱ
x ɢʀᴜᴍᴘʏ/ꜱᴜɴꜱʜɪɴᴇ
Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Steam: 3/5 🔥
𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘
This series is really starting out strong and I can't wait to see how the rest comes along! This is the second book in the series and my favourite so far. It was lower angst than I normally expect from Ashley but no less amazing, in fact it was more of a refreshing read that I desperately needed! Rowan and Caspian were such a delight to read, both in dire need of an intervention and respite from the hurt they both have buried deep inside. I loved that even though they are opposite in every way, they are perfect for breaking down each other's walls, brick by brick, and not without some delicious spice along the way! I really enjoyed how everything wasn't solved magically, that they had to work for their happiness, but it was such an amazing read and I cannot wait for the rest of the series!
July 6, 2023
⭐️4.5 stars⭐️
Caspian and Rowan are the epitome of grumpy/sunshine. They are just perfect for each other, Caspian’s broodiness paired with Rowan’s golden retriever vibes make for an interesting dynamic and I just adored Rowan from the start.
The ending was resolved a little too quickly in my opinion, but everything else was amazing, especially the smut ❤️🔥
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- drummer mc
- drug use
- mental illness
- grumpy/sunshine
- frotting
- public sex
- primal and cnc play
- one switch scene (Rowan mostly bottoms)
- lots of rimming
POV: dual, 1st person
I’m set for ruin. And Rowan will be my destruction.
Caspian and Rowan are the epitome of grumpy/sunshine. They are just perfect for each other, Caspian’s broodiness paired with Rowan’s golden retriever vibes make for an interesting dynamic and I just adored Rowan from the start.
The ending was resolved a little too quickly in my opinion, but everything else was amazing, especially the smut ❤️🔥
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- drummer mc
- drug use
- mental illness
- grumpy/sunshine
- frotting
- public sex
- primal and cnc play
- one switch scene (Rowan mostly bottoms)
- lots of rimming
POV: dual, 1st person
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2024
2.5⭐️
Ashley James writes damn good smut. That is an undisputed fact.
However, I don't think her books focusing on addiction are for me. They are not offensive or incorrect representations of addiction by any means, but I just don’t find myself attached to the characters in her stories when I have never faced that problem with other books written in a similar vein. I can’t quite put my finger on why this is, but I felt the same way when I read Illicit Desires.
These two stories do have some overlap in the addiction and co-dependent relationships, but they both stand on their own. I personally enjoyed the couple in Illicit Desires more simply because I believed in them more as a couple. This felt very insta-lovey and relied HEAVILY on the miscommunication trope....and to what end?! It was so dramatic and yet it was resolved so easily, then boom HEA. I don't buy it & I don't see them making it as a couple in the long term.
If you don’t mind the miscommunication trope and you are looking for a hurt/comfort relationship with good smut and some kinks such as CNC (that is actually consensual) with some chasing, then this might be for you.
Ashley James writes damn good smut. That is an undisputed fact.
However, I don't think her books focusing on addiction are for me. They are not offensive or incorrect representations of addiction by any means, but I just don’t find myself attached to the characters in her stories when I have never faced that problem with other books written in a similar vein. I can’t quite put my finger on why this is, but I felt the same way when I read Illicit Desires.
These two stories do have some overlap in the addiction and co-dependent relationships, but they both stand on their own. I personally enjoyed the couple in Illicit Desires more simply because I believed in them more as a couple. This felt very insta-lovey and relied HEAVILY on the miscommunication trope....and to what end?! It was so dramatic and yet it was resolved so easily, then boom HEA. I don't buy it & I don't see them making it as a couple in the long term.
If you don’t mind the miscommunication trope and you are looking for a hurt/comfort relationship with good smut and some kinks such as CNC (that is actually consensual) with some chasing, then this might be for you.
August 22, 2023
Caspian and Rowan were most definitely two hot mess men, but I loved them together.
Rowan was such a sweetheart. You couldn't help but feel for him and the way he just wanted to love and be loved. Every smile, every laugh, every interaction he had was to make sure he was enough for the people around him. He just needed to find that person who loved him for just being himself, and even though Caspian fought it tooth and nail, I think Rowan found that in him.
Then, you have Caspian. He was a royal D.I.C.K, but throughout the story, you started to slowly understand why he was the way he was. Mental illness is so hard, and it was portrayed perfectly through him. The highest of highs and the lowest of lows that he dealt with were so hard to witness but so realistic.
Both had their issues, but it was beautiful to see them grow to understand one another and give each other what they needed.
I do wish we saw them both open up a little more to each other earlier on in the book. However, I still highly enjoyed their happy ending.
Rowan was such a sweetheart. You couldn't help but feel for him and the way he just wanted to love and be loved. Every smile, every laugh, every interaction he had was to make sure he was enough for the people around him. He just needed to find that person who loved him for just being himself, and even though Caspian fought it tooth and nail, I think Rowan found that in him.
Then, you have Caspian. He was a royal D.I.C.K, but throughout the story, you started to slowly understand why he was the way he was. Mental illness is so hard, and it was portrayed perfectly through him. The highest of highs and the lowest of lows that he dealt with were so hard to witness but so realistic.
Both had their issues, but it was beautiful to see them grow to understand one another and give each other what they needed.
I do wish we saw them both open up a little more to each other earlier on in the book. However, I still highly enjoyed their happy ending.
June 26, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up
For the most part I really enjoyed this, but there were a couple things that didn't work for me. I loved the two leads. Both were layered and had their own believable struggles and unique personalities. They were sympathetic and I loved the banter and chemistry between them. The sex scenes were also incredibly hot. However, I felt the mental health issues weren't addressed fully. There is a lot of internal exploration of the characters struggles, especially for Caspian, but not enough detail regarding the healing process. They both have grown by the end, but the emotional journey outside of the central relationship was mostly off page. Caspian especially needed more therapy and reflection. While I hesitate to diagnose anyone in a book, it's very clear he struggles with the same condition as his mom, presumably bipolar disorder, but it's never specifically mentioned. Caspian struggles with guilt and shame, and he deserves to overcome those. He starts opening up due to his relationship with Rowan, but love isn't enough to cure mental illness, so I just needed more from that. Also, there's a 3 months later at the end explaining how much the two have fallen deeply in love over the past few months, and yes again, it's something I wanted more of on page. Nevertheless, despite my critiques, I really did like this. But it's because I loved the characters so much, that I wanted a little more for them.
For the most part I really enjoyed this, but there were a couple things that didn't work for me. I loved the two leads. Both were layered and had their own believable struggles and unique personalities. They were sympathetic and I loved the banter and chemistry between them. The sex scenes were also incredibly hot. However, I felt the mental health issues weren't addressed fully. There is a lot of internal exploration of the characters struggles, especially for Caspian, but not enough detail regarding the healing process. They both have grown by the end, but the emotional journey outside of the central relationship was mostly off page. Caspian especially needed more therapy and reflection. While I hesitate to diagnose anyone in a book, it's very clear he struggles with the same condition as his mom, presumably bipolar disorder, but it's never specifically mentioned. Caspian struggles with guilt and shame, and he deserves to overcome those. He starts opening up due to his relationship with Rowan, but love isn't enough to cure mental illness, so I just needed more from that. Also, there's a 3 months later at the end explaining how much the two have fallen deeply in love over the past few months, and yes again, it's something I wanted more of on page. Nevertheless, despite my critiques, I really did like this. But it's because I loved the characters so much, that I wanted a little more for them.
June 20, 2023
ROWAN & CASPIAN 🧡
*Grumpy/Sunshine
*Slight Primal Kink
*Opposites Attract
*Rockstar Romance
I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Rowan and Caspian. It is usually easy for me to say one MC caught my eye over the other but both Rowan and Caspian were so great on their own and together. Both had strong personalities and together they melded perfectly.
These two do come with baggage and Ashley does an amazing job giving depth to these characters and bringing their emotional backstories forward to help drive the story in an endearing way.
The spicy scenes in this book were very sexy and at times had me laughing. No one will ever convince me that a good rimming scene isn’t needed and these two didn’t disappoint. There was a lot of heat between them and I really enjoyed all these moments. One of my favorite sexy scene quotes: “You talk a lot of shit for someone about to get tackled in the middle of the jungle.” 😂
Ashley is brilliant at writing the imperfect boys and pairing them with their perfect matches. I love the rawness of her characters and Rowan and Caspian fit perfectly into that category. They touched on important messages but also brought a lot of humor and a beautiful love story! A really great read!
*Please remember to check trigger warnings.*
*Grumpy/Sunshine
*Slight Primal Kink
*Opposites Attract
*Rockstar Romance
I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Rowan and Caspian. It is usually easy for me to say one MC caught my eye over the other but both Rowan and Caspian were so great on their own and together. Both had strong personalities and together they melded perfectly.
These two do come with baggage and Ashley does an amazing job giving depth to these characters and bringing their emotional backstories forward to help drive the story in an endearing way.
The spicy scenes in this book were very sexy and at times had me laughing. No one will ever convince me that a good rimming scene isn’t needed and these two didn’t disappoint. There was a lot of heat between them and I really enjoyed all these moments. One of my favorite sexy scene quotes: “You talk a lot of shit for someone about to get tackled in the middle of the jungle.” 😂
Ashley is brilliant at writing the imperfect boys and pairing them with their perfect matches. I love the rawness of her characters and Rowan and Caspian fit perfectly into that category. They touched on important messages but also brought a lot of humor and a beautiful love story! A really great read!
*Please remember to check trigger warnings.*
![Profile Image for Lilly [Hiatus due to School] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1663899589i%2F10381707._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
June 28, 2023
I really enjoyed this entry into the Black Diamond/Unlucky 13 series! Full review to come
July 7, 2023
Wounded by Ashley James is book 2 in the shared world of the Unlucky 13. It has soooo many amazing tropes: rockstar, opposites attract, kink, substance abuse, mental health rep, grumpy/sunshine. It focuses on grumpy Caspian (lurve his name!) and the buoyant socialite Rowan (lurve his name too!). Man, this one was so good, y’all! Caspian was a Grade A a**hole of epic proportions throughout most of the book and I loved it. The absolute PERFECT contrast to Rowan’s lightness and honesty.
ɪ’ᴍ ꜱᴇᴛ ꜰᴏʀ ʀᴜɪɴ. ᴀɴᴅ ʀᴏᴡᴀɴ ᴡɪʟʟ ʙᴇ ᴍʏ ᴅᴇꜱᴛʀᴜᴄᴛɪᴏɴ.
Both of these guys had some killer inner demons. Rowan with his loneliness and Caspian with his abandonment issues. These two honestly shouldn’t have worked, but mad they did. They were tense and passionate and aggressive and so freaking sweet. Their love was raw and untamed and so beautiful.
“ɪ ᴛʜɪɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ, ᴅᴇᴇᴘ ᴅᴏᴡɴ, ʀᴇᴀʟʟʏ ᴅᴏ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴍᴇ. ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ᴊᴜꜱᴛ ᴀꜰʀᴀɪᴅ ᴛᴏ ʟᴇᴛ ᴀɴʏʙᴏᴅʏ ɪɴ.”
Wounded didn’t feel as angsty as book 1 but it was no less amazing. There were moments I wanted to strangle Caspian but Rowan knew how to handle him. And even though I don’t feel like we got a FULL relationship development, it worked for these two because I felt like their lives were private, even if they were telling us their story.
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
ANGST:💧💧💧
POV: 1st, Dual
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚. 𝙈𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙞𝙨 𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙮.
ɪ’ᴍ ꜱᴇᴛ ꜰᴏʀ ʀᴜɪɴ. ᴀɴᴅ ʀᴏᴡᴀɴ ᴡɪʟʟ ʙᴇ ᴍʏ ᴅᴇꜱᴛʀᴜᴄᴛɪᴏɴ.
Both of these guys had some killer inner demons. Rowan with his loneliness and Caspian with his abandonment issues. These two honestly shouldn’t have worked, but mad they did. They were tense and passionate and aggressive and so freaking sweet. Their love was raw and untamed and so beautiful.
“ɪ ᴛʜɪɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ, ᴅᴇᴇᴘ ᴅᴏᴡɴ, ʀᴇᴀʟʟʏ ᴅᴏ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴍᴇ. ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ᴊᴜꜱᴛ ᴀꜰʀᴀɪᴅ ᴛᴏ ʟᴇᴛ ᴀɴʏʙᴏᴅʏ ɪɴ.”
Wounded didn’t feel as angsty as book 1 but it was no less amazing. There were moments I wanted to strangle Caspian but Rowan knew how to handle him. And even though I don’t feel like we got a FULL relationship development, it worked for these two because I felt like their lives were private, even if they were telling us their story.
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
ANGST:💧💧💧
POV: 1st, Dual
𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚. 𝙈𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙞𝙨 𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙮.
July 10, 2023
Rowan deserved better.
There. I said it. No takebacks.
There. I said it. No takebacks.
October 15, 2024
Just like the rest of this series, Cas and Row’s relationship got me completely hooked. Rowan is such a bubbly/happy person where Caspian is Mr. Grumpy. It broke my heart when Cas found Row’s journal and thought he had been spying on him all this time after everything they lived through. Even after Rowan took such gentle care of Caspian when he noticed that something was wrong with him. I fell in love even more with this book when I read that Rowan had bought tickets to every single concert they had just to try to get to talk to Cas. Give this book a read, you won’t regret it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2024
Rowan + Caspian
-mm romance
-grumpy/sunshine
-rockstar romance
-forced proximity
hahah the grumpiness of caspian was the highlight of these two! & the way rowan took that as a challenge to get him to like him was adorable!! but rule the battles these two faced were so real & i couldn’t help but relate to them both & i loved it so much!!
-mm romance
-grumpy/sunshine
-rockstar romance
-forced proximity
hahah the grumpiness of caspian was the highlight of these two! & the way rowan took that as a challenge to get him to like him was adorable!! but rule the battles these two faced were so real & i couldn’t help but relate to them both & i loved it so much!!
June 23, 2023
« I’m set for ruin. And Rowan will be my destruction. »
June 25, 2023
Wow, I am obsessed with Wounded, there's just something about rockstar romances that I can't get enough of. It's the destructiveness of it all and the angst that inevitably follows...
Caspian sucked me in to his story right from the very first page, tugging on my heartstrings! I knew without a doubt his story was going to be heartbreaking and it was! He'd built walls upon walls to keep everyone at an arm's length, never letting anybody know his true self, I don't blame him either.
After night of debauchery goes wrong, his self destructive ways land him at the Black Diamond Resort & Spa after an ultimatum. The rich and famous come to the resort to seek help for addictions and mental health away from the lime light.
There, Caspian meets and reluctantly befriends, Rowan and those carefully erected walls threaten to crumble.
I loved the sexual tension between these two, the book oozed with it and Rowan was impossible not to love. His story is just as heart-wrenching as Caspian's was. I didn't know I needed the primal kink until recently, and now there's no going back for me. I can't wait for the other books in this multi-author series!
Caspian sucked me in to his story right from the very first page, tugging on my heartstrings! I knew without a doubt his story was going to be heartbreaking and it was! He'd built walls upon walls to keep everyone at an arm's length, never letting anybody know his true self, I don't blame him either.
After night of debauchery goes wrong, his self destructive ways land him at the Black Diamond Resort & Spa after an ultimatum. The rich and famous come to the resort to seek help for addictions and mental health away from the lime light.
There, Caspian meets and reluctantly befriends, Rowan and those carefully erected walls threaten to crumble.
I loved the sexual tension between these two, the book oozed with it and Rowan was impossible not to love. His story is just as heart-wrenching as Caspian's was. I didn't know I needed the primal kink until recently, and now there's no going back for me. I can't wait for the other books in this multi-author series!
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