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The McGuire Brothers #3
Boss Me Around
Christian McGuire is the last person I should be asking to boss me around in bed. Sure, he's a bonafide Sex God, but he's also my co-worker AND my shiny new brother-in-law.
But after a few too many tequila shots one night, I shoot him a text, asking him to be my smut mentor.
As soon as I sober up, I'm MORTIFIED, of course. I try to steal his cell phone and destroy the evidence, only to find I'm too late. Christian has already read my message.
Even worse? He wants no part in helping me ditch my ancient virginity.
That is, unless I agree to a few rules...
1. We never talk about Sex Club.
2. We never get caught by our friends or family.
3. We commit to fulfilling each other's wildest fantasies for one steamy month until he leaves town. No holds barred, no shame, no limits.
I agree without hesitation, confident that I can have a month of earth-shattering nookie and walk away without a broken heart.
But the more time I spend in the sack with this wild, funny, secretly tender man, the more I fear I'll break the biggest rule of all--Never Fall for Mr. Off Limits.
But after a few too many tequila shots one night, I shoot him a text, asking him to be my smut mentor.
As soon as I sober up, I'm MORTIFIED, of course. I try to steal his cell phone and destroy the evidence, only to find I'm too late. Christian has already read my message.
Even worse? He wants no part in helping me ditch my ancient virginity.
That is, unless I agree to a few rules...
1. We never talk about Sex Club.
2. We never get caught by our friends or family.
3. We commit to fulfilling each other's wildest fantasies for one steamy month until he leaves town. No holds barred, no shame, no limits.
I agree without hesitation, confident that I can have a month of earth-shattering nookie and walk away without a broken heart.
But the more time I spend in the sack with this wild, funny, secretly tender man, the more I fear I'll break the biggest rule of all--Never Fall for Mr. Off Limits.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2023
323 people are currently reading
266 people want to read
About the author
Lili Valente
151 books4,082 followersVisit Lili at www.lilivalente.com
Author of over forty novels, USA Today Bestseller Lili Valente writes everything from steamy suspense to laugh-out-loud romantic comedies. She can't resist a story where love wins big. Because love should always win. She lives in Vermont with her two big-hearted boy children and a dog named Pippa Jane.
*Lili rarely visits this site as it is a site intended for readers, not authors. If you have questions, the best way to reach Lili is through her website contact form. Happy reading!
Author of over forty novels, USA Today Bestseller Lili Valente writes everything from steamy suspense to laugh-out-loud romantic comedies. She can't resist a story where love wins big. Because love should always win. She lives in Vermont with her two big-hearted boy children and a dog named Pippa Jane.
*Lili rarely visits this site as it is a site intended for readers, not authors. If you have questions, the best way to reach Lili is through her website contact form. Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
March 7, 2025
Liked it (rounded up)
Starling and Christian are not only coworkers, but kinda family as Starling's sister Wren is married to Christian's brother Barrett. So we all 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕜 we know how this is gonna go down, but we really have no clue as Lili Valente takes us on another wild ride.
Ladies, let's not get drunk and leave a smexy voicemail propositioning no-strings fun on someone's voicemail. This is 100% a conversation to have when you're sober and face-to-face if nothing else. However, considering how it turned out for Starling and Christian, you may want to try it out. :P
The role-playing with these two is freaking hot! The hilarious furry friend in this one is a skunk (Stinkerbelle who moonlights as an escape artist). There's a touch of suspense. Starling is a virgin at 23 (not my fav age for that or trope regardless of age) and there's an unfortunate accidental sex tape mishap.
What I appreciated is the way that Starling and Christian communicated in this one. Like, bad things happen, they talked about it. They truly were a team from start to finish. They went into this no-strings fun arrangement with their eyes wide open and no expectations. Their inner dialogue of both Starling and Christian were hysterical and just added to the fun.
I'm sure a lot of the appeal of this one also is thanks to Jason Clarke and Lili Valente who make a fantastic narration team.
Starling and Christian are not only coworkers, but kinda family as Starling's sister Wren is married to Christian's brother Barrett. So we all 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕜 we know how this is gonna go down, but we really have no clue as Lili Valente takes us on another wild ride.
Ladies, let's not get drunk and leave a smexy voicemail propositioning no-strings fun on someone's voicemail. This is 100% a conversation to have when you're sober and face-to-face if nothing else. However, considering how it turned out for Starling and Christian, you may want to try it out. :P
The role-playing with these two is freaking hot! The hilarious furry friend in this one is a skunk (Stinkerbelle who moonlights as an escape artist). There's a touch of suspense. Starling is a virgin at 23 (not my fav age for that or trope regardless of age) and there's an unfortunate accidental sex tape mishap.
What I appreciated is the way that Starling and Christian communicated in this one. Like, bad things happen, they talked about it. They truly were a team from start to finish. They went into this no-strings fun arrangement with their eyes wide open and no expectations. Their inner dialogue of both Starling and Christian were hysterical and just added to the fun.
I'm sure a lot of the appeal of this one also is thanks to Jason Clarke and Lili Valente who make a fantastic narration team.
January 26, 2026
Absolutely ridiculous 😂
August 7, 2023
We're back in small-town Bad Dog, MN, where the majority of the population is related to the McGuire family in some way. Starling Baxter may be crushing on bad-boy Christian McGuire, but any hopes for her crush were crushed when she got the job he wanted, and for the next month, she's his boss. After that he'll be selling his motorcycle shop, subleasing his house and relocating to Minneapolis to work for a different nonprofit.
Except Starling lets the tequila shots do the talking for her one night and leaves a voice mail for Christian asking for some smexy after-hours attention from him and all but begging him to get bossy with her. Of course Christian puts up a fight, but it's not long before he agrees to her fling with no strings with a few ground rules in place. Remember how everyone is related to each other? He sister is married to his brother, which is only one of the ways this can go sideways in a hurry.
I’ve been eagerly awaiting a return to Bad Dog, especially knowing Starling's pet turkey Kyle would have a recurring role. Add to the menagerie a pet rescue skunk who has Houdini abilities and seems to speak human, and I love these secondary characters as much as Starling and Christian.
This crafty storyteller truly has a way with words, and I laughed and swooned my way through this one. Charming, funny, steamy, and heartfelt, this delightful romcom is loads of fun and the perfect choice for your next epic reading escape, so make sure you don’t miss it!
Except Starling lets the tequila shots do the talking for her one night and leaves a voice mail for Christian asking for some smexy after-hours attention from him and all but begging him to get bossy with her. Of course Christian puts up a fight, but it's not long before he agrees to her fling with no strings with a few ground rules in place. Remember how everyone is related to each other? He sister is married to his brother, which is only one of the ways this can go sideways in a hurry.
I’ve been eagerly awaiting a return to Bad Dog, especially knowing Starling's pet turkey Kyle would have a recurring role. Add to the menagerie a pet rescue skunk who has Houdini abilities and seems to speak human, and I love these secondary characters as much as Starling and Christian.
This crafty storyteller truly has a way with words, and I laughed and swooned my way through this one. Charming, funny, steamy, and heartfelt, this delightful romcom is loads of fun and the perfect choice for your next epic reading escape, so make sure you don’t miss it!
August 1, 2023
Boss Me Around is the third book in the Bad Dog series by Lili Valente. I am loving this fun, flirty, and sexy series. If you are following the series, this is Christian and Starling’s story. If not, you can read each book as standalone.
Starling wanted Christian to be her first. They weren’t always friends but she knew he would be the one to show what real pleasure felt like. She also knew he was a friends with benefits type of man. He never dated a woman for over three months. She knew this wouldn’t be happily ever after situation. It would only be one night.
Christian knew he couldn’t go there. He was leaving in a month. Her sister was married to his brother. It could get awkward. But what he also knew was that he wanted her. Bad. And that was part of the problem…
Omg! These two and their role-playing sexcapades is so much fun!! There is also some new quirky pets, which is the best. There is also some mystery thrown it. This book will make you laugh, swoon, get hot and bothered, and laugh some more. I am so excited about the next book!
Starling wanted Christian to be her first. They weren’t always friends but she knew he would be the one to show what real pleasure felt like. She also knew he was a friends with benefits type of man. He never dated a woman for over three months. She knew this wouldn’t be happily ever after situation. It would only be one night.
Christian knew he couldn’t go there. He was leaving in a month. Her sister was married to his brother. It could get awkward. But what he also knew was that he wanted her. Bad. And that was part of the problem…
Omg! These two and their role-playing sexcapades is so much fun!! There is also some new quirky pets, which is the best. There is also some mystery thrown it. This book will make you laugh, swoon, get hot and bothered, and laugh some more. I am so excited about the next book!
August 6, 2023
This book was over too quickly! I enjoyed it so much I didn’t want it to end! It felt like I finished this way faster than the other two and I’m not sure why. Was this one shorter, or did I like this one more that I blew through it? I felt like it was almost too quick. Even when Christian was trying to avoid being with Starling alone this part didn’t bother me. I felt like he played this game with himself a decent amount of time and didn’t drag out his agony and conflict with giving into what Starling wanted to do. He wasn’t denying his feelings for her, he was just afraid of hurting her or getting himself hurt, plus the situation with his family. It was a very unique thing because technically she is his sister in law, though they do come from different families. When Christian finally decided to give into Starling, it was a very different take on what I had initially thought. I didn’t know it would go so heavily into the role playing aspect of their intimacy. I never was into this so to me it was strange at first but it worked for them. I enjoyed reading about their shenanigans and how there was something different than the usual heat, passion and intensity I’m used to. This was more about what Starling liked and Christian found himself enjoying it too, plus it helped make it less personal without involving feelings. This became their go to until later on when they finally decide they want to be serious with each other, they keep this aspect in their relationship alive because it felt like their thing. What was great about this is how there wasn’t any conflict, except when something gets released without their knowledge. Instead of Starling assuming Christian was behind it, she knew better than to accuse him since she knew him and the kind of person he is. They took it on together, even though Starling found out on her own before he told her. It was shocking, but at the same time, I saw this happening and knew immediately who was behind it especially since there were some whisperings about suspicious things happening around the town. Overall, this was a fun way of telling a story and I couldn’t put it down. There was laughs, flirty moments and tender attraction. For someone who had his heart broken like Christian, he seemed to have no hard time opening his heart again to Starling and I could see this become apparent every moment he spent with her. There was no big declaration of love, but they told each other very casually and sweet, which didn’t take that long and I loved this. Sometimes simplicity is the best way. My only complaint, but not enough to warrant a lower rating, was how we basically don’t know what happened between Christian and his ex. The author didn’t touch on this, but just gave hints about it and I would have liked more detail. We just know she broke his trust but aren’t sure if there was cheating involved or if she tried to do something to his shop or family. Whatever it was, it was enough to scorn Christian about love. Regardless, this definitely deserves a 5 from me, it had everything I like in a story and it was just a fun read. The next book I’m very intrigued by, Matty seems very secretive and guarded and I just want to know what’s up, plus I’m happy Nora gets her story as she’s become a big staple in this series and I really like her antics.
August 27, 2023
Let’s see this series is staged in a town named Bad Dog MN. In the first three books there’s Kyle a viciously deranged tom turkey turned family pet, Keneau, a small dog that could have been a cousin to Gizmo in the movie Gremlins and now we have Stinkerbelle, a skunk that could Perry the Platypus a few lessons. And the hijinks the human characters get up to when they’re not having wild sex! I’d swear the author is channeling her sometimes writing partner Pippa Grant for this series.
Christian McGuire is the far too familiar male protagonist who is a woman’s wet dream but is afraid of love after an earlier woman broke his heart. The more attracted he is to Starling his boss, the harder he tries to get away from her. But Starling a 23 year old virgin is more than ready to lose her V-card and her employee and noe friend Christian who has a reputation for being a sex god and is attractive enough to work part time as a male stripper is just the man for the job. She knows Christian is the kind of guy who doesn’t do long term. But she’s heard through the Bad Dog grapevine that Christian will be leaving his job as her assistant at Furry Friends for a job a couple of hundred miles away in Minneapolis. So it would seem it’s the perfect time for asking the guy who has a reputation for knowing how to show a woman a good time between the sheets but a hard time committing to be her sexual mentor. Then when she meets “The One” she’ll won’t be some fumbling inexperienced virgin. Which is why after a little liquid courage she leaves him a voice mail proposing just such an arrangement. Then immediately regrets it and tries to steal his phone so she can erase the message. And we’re off!
This book is silly and sexy. Silly because between Starling who is delightful but a bit odd and the animals you can’t help but laugh. And did I mention sexy with all the sexy role playing these two get into as if they’ve been doing it for years. And while these two are busy getting busy both are also falling in love. But of course both thinks the other only wants a fling so neither wants to broach the idea of more. Then there’s a back story of Nora (Wren’s neighbor from the previous book) Starling’s BFF and Christian’s older brother Matty who is supposed to be sort of a reformed bad boy with wanderlust but I suspect is an undercover FBI agent. If you’re looking for a fun, sexy, fairly short read, this book fills the bill.
Christian McGuire is the far too familiar male protagonist who is a woman’s wet dream but is afraid of love after an earlier woman broke his heart. The more attracted he is to Starling his boss, the harder he tries to get away from her. But Starling a 23 year old virgin is more than ready to lose her V-card and her employee and noe friend Christian who has a reputation for being a sex god and is attractive enough to work part time as a male stripper is just the man for the job. She knows Christian is the kind of guy who doesn’t do long term. But she’s heard through the Bad Dog grapevine that Christian will be leaving his job as her assistant at Furry Friends for a job a couple of hundred miles away in Minneapolis. So it would seem it’s the perfect time for asking the guy who has a reputation for knowing how to show a woman a good time between the sheets but a hard time committing to be her sexual mentor. Then when she meets “The One” she’ll won’t be some fumbling inexperienced virgin. Which is why after a little liquid courage she leaves him a voice mail proposing just such an arrangement. Then immediately regrets it and tries to steal his phone so she can erase the message. And we’re off!
This book is silly and sexy. Silly because between Starling who is delightful but a bit odd and the animals you can’t help but laugh. And did I mention sexy with all the sexy role playing these two get into as if they’ve been doing it for years. And while these two are busy getting busy both are also falling in love. But of course both thinks the other only wants a fling so neither wants to broach the idea of more. Then there’s a back story of Nora (Wren’s neighbor from the previous book) Starling’s BFF and Christian’s older brother Matty who is supposed to be sort of a reformed bad boy with wanderlust but I suspect is an undercover FBI agent. If you’re looking for a fun, sexy, fairly short read, this book fills the bill.
August 6, 2023
Sometimes all you need is a good rom-com read to help keep your mind off the fact that you're sick in bed. Lili Valente takes us back to Bad Dog, the quirky town the McGuires call home, and book three in the McGuire Brothers series turns the spotlight on Starling Baxter and Christian McGuire. She's the twenty-three-year-old younger sister of Wren (Not Today Bossman); and he's the twenty-eight-year-old brother of Drew, Barrett, Wes, and Matty. She works at the animal shelter, and he owns a bike shop while also helping out at the shelter as well. They're good friends and family, what with her sister and one of his brothers (Barrett) being recently married and all. So naturally, her having feelings for him make things complicated, especially given the fact that he's planning on moving away from Bad Dog. Propositioning him via voicemail? Bad idea. Him listening to the voicemail? Humiliating. His rejection of said proposition? Ouch. But maybe he's found a way to soothe that pain...with a deliciously dirty plan of his own. It's for a limited period of time, and when all is said and done, they'll walk away from each other. If only that were easier said than done.
You know how they say that laughter is the best medicine? Well, in this case, laughter most certainly helped. Being sick in bed for days on end is NOT fun, but reading Starling and Christian's story definitely was. These two were as hilarious as they were sweet. Oh, and did I forget to mention that they also happened to be quite naughty as well--but hey, good for them, especially Starling! She could very well be the poster child for the saying "When I'm good, I'm good; when I'm bad, I'm better." Of course, the usual suspects, aka the McGuires and the rest of the residents of Bad Dog, bring in even more of the laughs. And I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Bella, the latest pet to join the fam, and boy, oh boy, did she steal hearts. All in all, Boss Me Around was that bit of sunshiny goodness in what's been a gloomy couple of weeks. Five stars! (And I'm already counting the days till Matty's book!)
You know how they say that laughter is the best medicine? Well, in this case, laughter most certainly helped. Being sick in bed for days on end is NOT fun, but reading Starling and Christian's story definitely was. These two were as hilarious as they were sweet. Oh, and did I forget to mention that they also happened to be quite naughty as well--but hey, good for them, especially Starling! She could very well be the poster child for the saying "When I'm good, I'm good; when I'm bad, I'm better." Of course, the usual suspects, aka the McGuires and the rest of the residents of Bad Dog, bring in even more of the laughs. And I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Bella, the latest pet to join the fam, and boy, oh boy, did she steal hearts. All in all, Boss Me Around was that bit of sunshiny goodness in what's been a gloomy couple of weeks. Five stars! (And I'm already counting the days till Matty's book!)
July 19, 2023
Snort worthy laughs, swoony romance, and lots of steam
I loved this virgin, coworkers, anti-relationship, role-playing fling tale of all the things. It is filled with all the laughs, the emotions, the connections and the love to create fantastic romcom gold. Starling works at an animal rescue, Furry Friends, and owns a pet turkey. She’s also a virgin. Christian is one of her employees/coworkers. He’s also kind of related to Starling since her sister is married to his brother. Starling and Christian are portrayed as real, relatable people who have flaws, but are really trying to just do their best as messy, slightly quirky humans. There has been chemistry and lots of attraction between them but they have both been ignoring and hiding it until Starling sends a drunk text offering a no strings fling. Of course, feelings get involved despite their best efforts to keep it in the fling category. The inner monologues of both Starling and Christian were hysterical and added to the fun, flirty, and steamy perfection of this story. It was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline told through sweet moments, steamy scenes, laughs, weird pets, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, and heart squeezing love. I am loving the series.
I loved this virgin, coworkers, anti-relationship, role-playing fling tale of all the things. It is filled with all the laughs, the emotions, the connections and the love to create fantastic romcom gold. Starling works at an animal rescue, Furry Friends, and owns a pet turkey. She’s also a virgin. Christian is one of her employees/coworkers. He’s also kind of related to Starling since her sister is married to his brother. Starling and Christian are portrayed as real, relatable people who have flaws, but are really trying to just do their best as messy, slightly quirky humans. There has been chemistry and lots of attraction between them but they have both been ignoring and hiding it until Starling sends a drunk text offering a no strings fling. Of course, feelings get involved despite their best efforts to keep it in the fling category. The inner monologues of both Starling and Christian were hysterical and added to the fun, flirty, and steamy perfection of this story. It was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline told through sweet moments, steamy scenes, laughs, weird pets, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, and heart squeezing love. I am loving the series.
August 1, 2023
Having read Boss Without Benefits and Not Today Bossman I immediately started looking forward to more! I was so glad to find out about this third installment! I picked it up and got right back into the Bad Dog world! I so enjoyed this story!
Starling and Christian's journey captured my attention right from the get go! These two and their lives are intertwined in more ways than one. A text from Starling to Christian shakes things up for sure. Will these two follow the rules and then go their own ways? Or is there more than just heat between them?
I really liked how Starling and Christian got me right back into this world and the different way they were brought together. I adored how caring and real these two were. I enjoyed seeing them collide from their lives to their priceless moments and to the steam they brought. I wasn't sure how they'd tackle their feelings/the rules which got me even more into their story.
I was so glad to be back with the McGuire Brothers crew and what everyone brought to the story!
With Boss Me Around, Ms.Valente has created such a good and entertaining read that brought the steam and feels! I can always count on this author's books to make me smile! Can't wait to read what she brings our way next!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
Starling and Christian's journey captured my attention right from the get go! These two and their lives are intertwined in more ways than one. A text from Starling to Christian shakes things up for sure. Will these two follow the rules and then go their own ways? Or is there more than just heat between them?
I really liked how Starling and Christian got me right back into this world and the different way they were brought together. I adored how caring and real these two were. I enjoyed seeing them collide from their lives to their priceless moments and to the steam they brought. I wasn't sure how they'd tackle their feelings/the rules which got me even more into their story.
I was so glad to be back with the McGuire Brothers crew and what everyone brought to the story!
With Boss Me Around, Ms.Valente has created such a good and entertaining read that brought the steam and feels! I can always count on this author's books to make me smile! Can't wait to read what she brings our way next!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
July 19, 2023
“I have missed her. Not just since last night, but for years and years before.”
Boss Me Around was a sweet, flirty and fun romance that was full of laughter and heart. Starling and Christian were delightful. Add in a cast of non-conventional pets and this story will steal your heart.
“I might not have known how amazing we would be together, but deep down I knew I wanted something like this, someone like her.”
Starling was so adorably awkward and I loved her determination and sunshine personality. Christian was such a sweetheart and I loved how fast he fell for Starling. Their playful banter is so entertaining and the chemistry between them generates sparks. The trust and understanding that they developed was heartwarming and I loved watching their relationship develop.
“You’re one of my favorite people and my best friend and I really don’t want this to have an expiration date.”
Relatively low on angst, Boss Me Around is a feel-good read that is full of humor, heat, and heart. Christian and Starling are sure to bring a smile to your face as they navigate their feelings. I can’t wait for the next book in this fun and playful series.
Boss Me Around was a sweet, flirty and fun romance that was full of laughter and heart. Starling and Christian were delightful. Add in a cast of non-conventional pets and this story will steal your heart.
“I might not have known how amazing we would be together, but deep down I knew I wanted something like this, someone like her.”
Starling was so adorably awkward and I loved her determination and sunshine personality. Christian was such a sweetheart and I loved how fast he fell for Starling. Their playful banter is so entertaining and the chemistry between them generates sparks. The trust and understanding that they developed was heartwarming and I loved watching their relationship develop.
“You’re one of my favorite people and my best friend and I really don’t want this to have an expiration date.”
Relatively low on angst, Boss Me Around is a feel-good read that is full of humor, heat, and heart. Christian and Starling are sure to bring a smile to your face as they navigate their feelings. I can’t wait for the next book in this fun and playful series.
July 22, 2023
I’m so happy to be back in Bad Dog, MN and with those swoony McGuire Brothers. “Boss Me Around” is a fun, flirty, and laugh out loud coworkers to lovers romance that I could not put down.
Tequila is life’s truth serum and Starling Baxter found that out the hard way when she left a voicemail asking Christian McGuire to help her with her ancient V-card. Christian’s first response is no since there are some close connections between them. But Starling works him down and the two agree on rules for their exclusive club. But as they spend time together, both realize how compatible they really are.
I loved Starling and Christian so much. They had me swoony and laughing at the same time. I loved how they were coworkers at a nonprofit and had a friends and family connection. Lili Valente is so great about writing relatable characters and these two are. I connected with both of them right away and loved their stories so much. Their secret club was a great way to start things and their steamy scenes of fulfilling all of their fantasies were so good. My favorite, Kyle the Turkey, is back and is still a sweet menace. Bella was so cute and makes me want to get a pet skunk now. The little teaser we get for the next book was so good and I can’t wait to read it.
Tequila is life’s truth serum and Starling Baxter found that out the hard way when she left a voicemail asking Christian McGuire to help her with her ancient V-card. Christian’s first response is no since there are some close connections between them. But Starling works him down and the two agree on rules for their exclusive club. But as they spend time together, both realize how compatible they really are.
I loved Starling and Christian so much. They had me swoony and laughing at the same time. I loved how they were coworkers at a nonprofit and had a friends and family connection. Lili Valente is so great about writing relatable characters and these two are. I connected with both of them right away and loved their stories so much. Their secret club was a great way to start things and their steamy scenes of fulfilling all of their fantasies were so good. My favorite, Kyle the Turkey, is back and is still a sweet menace. Bella was so cute and makes me want to get a pet skunk now. The little teaser we get for the next book was so good and I can’t wait to read it.
October 30, 2023
~*~ Audiobook Review ~*~ Boss Me Around is a hilariously wonderful story with brilliant performances by Lili Valente and Jason Clarke! The characters are quirky and fun. You just can't help falling in love with them falling in love in this "just a fling" that turns into so much more. They are perfect for each other in all the ways that count. So many moments that made me giggle, but plenty of steam in this sex-positive adventure in role playing that was so much fun!! Kyle has settled into his pet turkey role after a rocky introduction in prior books in the series. Bella is the most adorable character and you just never know what might pop up in these stories. Loved it! This is book #3 in The McGuire Brothers Series, but can be read as a stand alone. That said, I highly recommend the series in its entirety.
Jason Clarke and Lili Valente bring this to life with wonderful performances. I'm narrator motivated, so I knew I would love it, but I have already listened twice and I know I will listen again. Excellent comedic timing, brilliant steamy goodness, and just plain excellent acting really swept me into this fun book.
Jason Clarke and Lili Valente bring this to life with wonderful performances. I'm narrator motivated, so I knew I would love it, but I have already listened twice and I know I will listen again. Excellent comedic timing, brilliant steamy goodness, and just plain excellent acting really swept me into this fun book.
August 1, 2023
Boss me Around is Lily Valente’s latest addition to the Bad Dog series, and what a fantastic addition it is. Starling and Christian have been work colleagues at the shelter for quite some time. They have both shared a secret attraction to each other, but were hesitant to share their feelings, since they are related through the marriage her sister to his brother.
But after a few too many shots, Starling sends a message for Christian asking if he is interested in being her sex mentor. Excited as Christian is at the thought of such an opportunity, they both ultimately agree it is not a good idea. But the more time they spend together, the undeniable attraction and connection they share leads to inevitable and creative sexual antics.
Boss Me Around is a fun and steamy addition to this series. The quirky escapades Starling and Christian share together, as well as their furry and feathery friends, makes this an entertaining and fun tale to read. As always, Lili Valente has outdone herself again. I’m already looking forward to the next couple and the future fun and quirkiness happening in Bad Dog.
But after a few too many shots, Starling sends a message for Christian asking if he is interested in being her sex mentor. Excited as Christian is at the thought of such an opportunity, they both ultimately agree it is not a good idea. But the more time they spend together, the undeniable attraction and connection they share leads to inevitable and creative sexual antics.
Boss Me Around is a fun and steamy addition to this series. The quirky escapades Starling and Christian share together, as well as their furry and feathery friends, makes this an entertaining and fun tale to read. As always, Lili Valente has outdone herself again. I’m already looking forward to the next couple and the future fun and quirkiness happening in Bad Dog.
August 1, 2023
I loved this series, it might very well be my favorite by Lili Valente. But I am absolutely ga-ga over Boss Me Around! Starling and Christian are sweet and funny, sexy and seriously dedicated to their jobs, their friends and each other. What started out as friendship, plus family now that their siblings are married to each other, has taken a physical turn…and it’s hot, hot, hot.
But my favorite parts are their ridiculously hilarious banter. Laughing out loud isn’t just a throwaway abbreviation…I seriously disturbed a pet or two, and probably a neighbor, with my giggles. And don’t get me started on the weirdly adorable but completely strange pets these two own. Where is Lili pulling this stuff from??
I’m not one to encourage reading series out of order…yeah, it’s a quirk of mine to be obsessively go out of my way to read series in order, even as they stand-alone. But I say throw out the rule book, read Boss Me Around first, then go back for books one and two. Or, you do you. Just read this series!
But my favorite parts are their ridiculously hilarious banter. Laughing out loud isn’t just a throwaway abbreviation…I seriously disturbed a pet or two, and probably a neighbor, with my giggles. And don’t get me started on the weirdly adorable but completely strange pets these two own. Where is Lili pulling this stuff from??
I’m not one to encourage reading series out of order…yeah, it’s a quirk of mine to be obsessively go out of my way to read series in order, even as they stand-alone. But I say throw out the rule book, read Boss Me Around first, then go back for books one and two. Or, you do you. Just read this series!
August 8, 2023
Adored these two and Bella even MORE!!
Oh how I love the quirkiness of a Lili Valente rom com and this Bad Dog series does not disappoint with the added bonus of the quirky uniqueness of pets. Starling and Christian are related by marriage AND she is his boss, so any hanky panky is off limits, right?!?
But what happens when you receive a drunken voicemail that peaks your interest? Starling's attempt to dissuade Christian from listening to said VM was hilarious. Then their meeting of Bella, the escape artist, was so endearing. I adored her throughout and really want to know her secrets.
What starts as a temporary, hot, steamy hook-up turns into more because that's what happens with these McGuire men. There is no escaping their wit and charm even when they try not to!
This couple was beyond cute and there was added drama to keep you turning the pages.
Such a fun, unique story and absolutely wonderful characters - furred and non-furred alike. I so want to visit and stay awhile! Can't wait for Book 4 and Matty's story too!
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
Oh how I love the quirkiness of a Lili Valente rom com and this Bad Dog series does not disappoint with the added bonus of the quirky uniqueness of pets. Starling and Christian are related by marriage AND she is his boss, so any hanky panky is off limits, right?!?
But what happens when you receive a drunken voicemail that peaks your interest? Starling's attempt to dissuade Christian from listening to said VM was hilarious. Then their meeting of Bella, the escape artist, was so endearing. I adored her throughout and really want to know her secrets.
What starts as a temporary, hot, steamy hook-up turns into more because that's what happens with these McGuire men. There is no escaping their wit and charm even when they try not to!
This couple was beyond cute and there was added drama to keep you turning the pages.
Such a fun, unique story and absolutely wonderful characters - furred and non-furred alike. I so want to visit and stay awhile! Can't wait for Book 4 and Matty's story too!
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
August 3, 2023
Another fun filled book in the Bad Dog series. This book had me laughing from beginning to end. It's so much fun! Kyle the turkey is back in action since Starling adopted him. Then throw in an adorable skunk. So good on the animal front. Then you have Starling and Christian coworkers that have a little attraction going on. An alcohol infused night for Starling changes everything for these two. They definitely have the chemistry with their role playing trysts. They are so much fun with some humor thrown in which fits these two so perfectly. Christian isn't looking for forever just fun right now, but he knows in his gut Starling is a forever kind of girl. This is the perfect book to get lost in that will also be making you laugh with the sense of humor. The book I truly needed right now. I loved the little tease for the next book. It sounds like it's going to be a good one!
August 5, 2023
How much do I love The McGuire brothers! Christian is no exception!!! I loved that he was trying so hard to resist temptation. The laughs I had, the moments when you just knew something spicy was going to happen. Gah! This book had me laughing then swooning.
Starling was a show stopper. She is a new favorite heroine for me in this Bad Dog world. I was in awe with knowing what she wanted and how to get it!
Folks, The Bad Dog Novel series are a hoot! I am in Book 3 and this world is becoming like home. The characters are the best, the McGuire brothers will make you melt into a puddle of goo!!! The family and the leading ladies are the cherry on the top! I whoel heartily recommend this book!! You will thank me later! #2023BookRec
July 29, 2023
Listen to me and listen to me good, if you haven't picked up book one and two of this series you BETTER! We're back in Bad Dog with some of the same cast of quirky characters. Fueled by Tequila and sexy thoughts of Christian, Starling starts the ball rolling on what would be a crazy adventure for her. Who knew that little ol Starling had it in her? I for one was shocked, but in the best way. Sometimes a gal just has to take the bull by the horns, ya know...
Christian really has it bad for Starling, but he has big plans for his life and staying in Bad Dog isn't one of them. I adore this small town and I esp adore all the crazy cast of animals that we get introduced to. This is a must read!
#skunkdaddy
Christian really has it bad for Starling, but he has big plans for his life and staying in Bad Dog isn't one of them. I adore this small town and I esp adore all the crazy cast of animals that we get introduced to. This is a must read!
#skunkdaddy
August 2, 2023
Starling and Christians story is heartwarmingly hilarious, over the top cute, yet still sexy enough to turn your ears red if you read it in public LOL. I loved these two, friends to lovers is a mood and I totally needed a dose of it. Starling is so sweet and yet so ready to be uncute, she wants to be hot, sexy, desirable, basically she needs a course in how to find her inner bad girl. Christian is definitely the right guy to work that sweetness right out of her system, and the fact that they already have a time frame for the end game cuts the stress and makes everything easier... doesn't it? Until it doesn't because what they want changes. I loved the laughs these two gave me along the way with Kyle and Bella and the ending was so fitting. Definitely a great afternoon read!
December 12, 2023
This one is Starling and Christian's story from the McGuire brothers series. These two were introduced in previous books. Starling's sister is now married to one of Christian's brothers. Although Starling and Christian once didn't get along at all, now they work well together at the pet shelter and are both trying to resist an attraction to each other. Starling, a virgin, asks via voicemail while drunk for Christian to be her mentor about sex. Although he initially rejects the idea, he changes his mind. He agrees to do so before he moves out of town. They create a set of rules for the "mentoring." Their sexual encounters revolve around role playing. Of course, the emotions become very real and they fall in love with each other. The wacky pets they have liven up the story. A good read.
January 4, 2024
Hoopla listen narrated by Jason Clarke and Lili Valente.
“A Jedi of fü¢kĩňğ” 😂☠️ crying!!! The role-play was so silly after the first time.
A kissing booth, oh he had no clue how stupid he was. For some reason, I’m not connecting with either one of these characters. I mean what was the big deal with his bottom being hairy, it’d freak me out a little if it weren’t! Then there is the whole virgin thing, the whole role play thing, the “wife-husband” (was just strange) thing, but I won’t kink shame. 😬
A domesticated rescued turkey on his way to get the fix of the toxic mold from his old farm. Craziness in a semi-funny way.
Good work by both narrators! But I think I have to take a break from Lili’s writing for a little while.
“A Jedi of fü¢kĩňğ” 😂☠️ crying!!! The role-play was so silly after the first time.
A kissing booth, oh he had no clue how stupid he was. For some reason, I’m not connecting with either one of these characters. I mean what was the big deal with his bottom being hairy, it’d freak me out a little if it weren’t! Then there is the whole virgin thing, the whole role play thing, the “wife-husband” (was just strange) thing, but I won’t kink shame. 😬
A domesticated rescued turkey on his way to get the fix of the toxic mold from his old farm. Craziness in a semi-funny way.
Good work by both narrators! But I think I have to take a break from Lili’s writing for a little while.
September 14, 2025
Christian McGuire
Starling
Christian owns a bike (motorcycle) repair shop. He is Starling’s new brother -in-law. He volunteers at Furry Friends rescue/animal adoption center doing fundraising. Starling has applied for a permanent position at the shelter as fund-raiser after returning home from college. There is a pet turkey named Kyle and a pet skunk named Bella in the story. Starling has had a crush on Christian for a long time and after a lot of tequila one night she asks Christian be her sex mentor. They agree on rules and things move forward. This is a very good, fast read. The book can be read as a standalone or as part of the series. I would definitely read more books by this author and this series.
Starling
Christian owns a bike (motorcycle) repair shop. He is Starling’s new brother -in-law. He volunteers at Furry Friends rescue/animal adoption center doing fundraising. Starling has applied for a permanent position at the shelter as fund-raiser after returning home from college. There is a pet turkey named Kyle and a pet skunk named Bella in the story. Starling has had a crush on Christian for a long time and after a lot of tequila one night she asks Christian be her sex mentor. They agree on rules and things move forward. This is a very good, fast read. The book can be read as a standalone or as part of the series. I would definitely read more books by this author and this series.
July 18, 2023
This book is HILARIOUS and swoony and amazing!
If you love the Happy Cat series (Lili wrote with Pippa Grant), you will LOVE this book! There are more animal shenanigans that will leave you rolling!
This book is low-angst with a plot that involves other characters and circumstances instead of a long black moment. LOVE this.
The seggsy times in this book are off-the-charts FIRE!
I love these characters, and I have my theories about the next book already! I can't wait for it!
If you like hilarious rom-coms with the enemies to friends to lovers trope and adorable animal friends, you'll love Boss Me Around!
If you love the Happy Cat series (Lili wrote with Pippa Grant), you will LOVE this book! There are more animal shenanigans that will leave you rolling!
This book is low-angst with a plot that involves other characters and circumstances instead of a long black moment. LOVE this.
The seggsy times in this book are off-the-charts FIRE!
I love these characters, and I have my theories about the next book already! I can't wait for it!
If you like hilarious rom-coms with the enemies to friends to lovers trope and adorable animal friends, you'll love Boss Me Around!
July 19, 2023
I was honoured to receive an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Starling & Christian's story was worth the wait at the end of the last story we had so much tension between these characters.
Just like the previous books in this series they have random animals. (1st book was a psycho turkey called Kyle & the 2nd was a dog called Keanu .... even though he doesn't look like a dog) This book has a skunk who originally was going to be called Stinkerbelle but Christian decided Bella was better suited. Personally I think this skunk escaped from a town called Nightfall (if you love Lili's work you will understand the reference)
This book has it all a definite must read.
Starling & Christian's story was worth the wait at the end of the last story we had so much tension between these characters.
Just like the previous books in this series they have random animals. (1st book was a psycho turkey called Kyle & the 2nd was a dog called Keanu .... even though he doesn't look like a dog) This book has a skunk who originally was going to be called Stinkerbelle but Christian decided Bella was better suited. Personally I think this skunk escaped from a town called Nightfall (if you love Lili's work you will understand the reference)
This book has it all a definite must read.
February 23, 2024
Christian and Starling work together at an animal rescue. Starling has been interested in Christian for a while, even though they have had somewhat of an antagonistic relationship. He's not interested in anything "permanent" and usually has relationships that only last 3 months after having had his heart broken when he was younger. Starling is 22, maybe 23? And she's a virgin - and she thinks that Chris is the one who could teach her all the things she wants to learn.
There's a tiny mystery involving Christian's bike shop, a nice resolution for Starling with her childhood bully, fun antics with all of the weird rescue animals.
3.5 stars.
There's a tiny mystery involving Christian's bike shop, a nice resolution for Starling with her childhood bully, fun antics with all of the weird rescue animals.
3.5 stars.
February 2, 2026
Entire series in audio. Good author and narrator! I recently reviewed something with a comment that it would have been better with more attention to the animals. Well, this series delivers that, plus. It's full of offbeat pets, support animals, and crazy wildlife antics.
Bad Dog, the name of the small town, is a clue to the craziness that ensues. There are so many cousins and in-laws in this community that people say they can't date without knowing who someone is connected to.
A fun Rom Com series I found in Hoopla. I'll be looking for more by this author. Same review added to each book in the series.
Bad Dog, the name of the small town, is a clue to the craziness that ensues. There are so many cousins and in-laws in this community that people say they can't date without knowing who someone is connected to.
A fun Rom Com series I found in Hoopla. I'll be looking for more by this author. Same review added to each book in the series.
July 23, 2023
I love this low angst, hilarious love story! It has so much heart and the characters are freaking wonderful! Starling and Christian are friends who work together and secretly pine after one another. When they start a fling of sorts, they make a set of rules thinking no one would get hurt. Then obviously fall madly in love with each other. Starling is sweet and so funny. Christian is swoony and a dirty talker. These two just fit together so perfectly.
I'm loving the town of Bad Dog and it's amazing and crazy inhabitants!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
I'm loving the town of Bad Dog and it's amazing and crazy inhabitants!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
August 3, 2023
Boss Me Around is a great addition to this series! I love how Lili Valente writes her rom coms! They keep me entertained and I’m always laughing through the story! Christian and Starling have a good friends with benefits relationship going until they get knocked over the head and realize their feelings run much deeper than causal.
I loved the animals in this story, Belle the squirrel is hilarious and adds a perfect dose of humor to this story especially when the ending comes around, and all the serious stuff happens! I can’t wait for the next book!
I loved the animals in this story, Belle the squirrel is hilarious and adds a perfect dose of humor to this story especially when the ending comes around, and all the serious stuff happens! I can’t wait for the next book!
August 23, 2023
Back to Mad Dog madness
I loved this book. It's lighthearted and funny whilst still being hot AF and has all the feels.
Starling is an animal obsessed sweetheart with a hidden kinky side, while Christian is in serious denial about his feelings for Starling. He is due to move to the city in a month. Starling decides this gives him just enough time to be her 'Sex Mentor'.
Kyle (the now not high as a kite turkey) and Bella, the magical skunk - add extra comedic value.
All round a good fun read. Can't wait for Matty's story!
I loved this book. It's lighthearted and funny whilst still being hot AF and has all the feels.
Starling is an animal obsessed sweetheart with a hidden kinky side, while Christian is in serious denial about his feelings for Starling. He is due to move to the city in a month. Starling decides this gives him just enough time to be her 'Sex Mentor'.
Kyle (the now not high as a kite turkey) and Bella, the magical skunk - add extra comedic value.
All round a good fun read. Can't wait for Matty's story!
September 20, 2023
I stopped reading this book at 57% because the sexual scenarios were them role playing and i did not enjoy that at all. Also again, the writing felt very corny and the instantaneous love between the characters felt unauthentic I would have loved to see their friendship grow first and then maybe I would believe they loved each other but you don't get to see that in the book and you don't get real interactions or reasons why the characters love each other so I gave up reading this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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