What do you think?
Rate this book
Stewart Realty #0.5
House Rules
It takes a wealth of collected experiences, emotions, successes and failures to craft the personality of a true Alpha Male
Jack Gordon, real estate broker, licensed builder, Juris Doctorate, has had his fair share of strife. His ability to cope, to fall down and pick himself back up has lead him to a place where he believes he has it all. Friends, money, cars, more women than he can count, and a club in Detroit where he can exorcise his inner demons, fill his days and his nights.
When he walks up to a penthouse door on a hot Ann Arbor summer afternoon, frustrated, exasperated and ready to call it quits after hours of condo shopping with a wealthy couple, the last thing on his mind is meeting his destiny.
House Rules: The Jack Gordon Story. A prequel novella of the Stewart Realty Series.
Jack Gordon, real estate broker, licensed builder, Juris Doctorate, has had his fair share of strife. His ability to cope, to fall down and pick himself back up has lead him to a place where he believes he has it all. Friends, money, cars, more women than he can count, and a club in Detroit where he can exorcise his inner demons, fill his days and his nights.
When he walks up to a penthouse door on a hot Ann Arbor summer afternoon, frustrated, exasperated and ready to call it quits after hours of condo shopping with a wealthy couple, the last thing on his mind is meeting his destiny.
House Rules: The Jack Gordon Story. A prequel novella of the Stewart Realty Series.
98 pages, ebook
First published June 15, 2013
6 people are currently reading
412 people want to read
About the author
Liz Crowe
100 books1,231 followersLiz Crowe is a Kentucky native and graduate of the University of Louisville living in South Carolina. She's spent her time as a three-continent expat trailing spouse, mom of three, real estate agent, brewery owner and bar manager, and is currently a digital marketing and fundraising consultant, in addition to being an award-winning author.
The Liz Crowe backlist has something for any reader seeking complex storylines with humor and complete casts of characters that will delight and linger in the imagination long after the book is finished.
Her favorite things to do when she’s not scrolling social media for cute animal videos is walk her dogs, cuddle her cats, and watch her favorite sports teams while scrolling social media for cute animal videos.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 23, 2013
Not sure if I should have read this before the next one...Floor Time. I enjoyed it. Do we have to have the stereotypical Irish alcoholic drunk. Yep, the Irish like their drink but fuck it do we have to have the father, the fucking mother dying in her own puke, Granny, from Ireland, telling him not to go down the Whiskey Road.... Jack, drinking until he has his stomach pumped.... it was an ok read but sort of annoyed me a bit....
June 25, 2013
One thing I love about Liz Crowe is when she writes about her characters that are into D/s relationships and how it all began. Usually we just read a paragraph or two about the character’s backstory explaining why and how they got into BDSM, but it does not really give us much. I like to know what molded them to be the person that they are. Whether it was personal relationships or experiences, I want to know the whole story and be there with the character. In House Rules we see what made Jack Gordon the man he is today; strong, in control and knows what he wants and goes for it.
4.5 Stars Liz Crowe does such an amazing job. I have already read a few of Liz Crowe’s books, but it seems like with each one, they get better and better. I have not been disappointed.
Did I feel connected to the characters? I felt connected to Jack. The cover of the book is perfect. I think it shows the man that Jack is.
Pace of the story: Very Good.
Positives: Jack’s character is written so well. Here is a broken soul who can’t find comfort/peace and we see him trying.
Negatives: Not sure if it a negative about the book, but something I want to yell at Jack “stop choosing these crappy women!!!! You pick these dumb, selfish women and then you think that your father was right that women are only good for three things. You pick women awful women!!! We need Sara!”
Do I recommend? If you have not read any of the Stewart Reality book, this is a great intro to the series. If you have read the Stewart Reality series, this will put some light to Jack’s character.
Bottom line: The characters’ behaviors come to light when you read their back stories. That is why I like when an author does these prequels. Plus, I love how the epilogue gave the reader a look at the future. I am never disappointed when I read a book by Liz Crowe.
Book Format Read: A copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Stars Liz Crowe does such an amazing job. I have already read a few of Liz Crowe’s books, but it seems like with each one, they get better and better. I have not been disappointed.
Did I feel connected to the characters? I felt connected to Jack. The cover of the book is perfect. I think it shows the man that Jack is.
Pace of the story: Very Good.
Positives: Jack’s character is written so well. Here is a broken soul who can’t find comfort/peace and we see him trying.
Negatives: Not sure if it a negative about the book, but something I want to yell at Jack “stop choosing these crappy women!!!! You pick these dumb, selfish women and then you think that your father was right that women are only good for three things. You pick women awful women!!! We need Sara!”
Do I recommend? If you have not read any of the Stewart Reality book, this is a great intro to the series. If you have read the Stewart Reality series, this will put some light to Jack’s character.
Bottom line: The characters’ behaviors come to light when you read their back stories. That is why I like when an author does these prequels. Plus, I love how the epilogue gave the reader a look at the future. I am never disappointed when I read a book by Liz Crowe.
Book Format Read: A copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 20, 2013
House Rules by Liz Crowe
If you are a fan of Liz’s Stewart Realty Series than House Rules is a must for you! This novella is a perfect companion piece for the rest of the series. In House Rules we get a look inside Jack Gordon’s past and a glimpse into why he is the way that he is.
When it came to picking my favorite book boyfriend, Jack wasn’t the first on my list. He is demanding and always in control. I’ve got the hots for Rob and Blake! But with House Rules, I have a better understanding of Jack and what made him into that dominating man. His childhood wasn’t easy (who’s ever is?) and I really hate Jenna for what she did. I know how much that can scar a person and that they carry it forever. I’m a walking billboard on that issue. However, I really love that I can see why Jack’s personality is strong and cautious. I can understand his doubts and conflicts. It makes him a more sympathetic character.
The story is exciting but the sex is smoking. Liz writes passionate scenes that will leave you breathless. House Rules is a fun read that I read in one sitting. I couldn’t stop! Make sure you get this book today!
If you are a fan of Liz’s Stewart Realty Series than House Rules is a must for you! This novella is a perfect companion piece for the rest of the series. In House Rules we get a look inside Jack Gordon’s past and a glimpse into why he is the way that he is.
When it came to picking my favorite book boyfriend, Jack wasn’t the first on my list. He is demanding and always in control. I’ve got the hots for Rob and Blake! But with House Rules, I have a better understanding of Jack and what made him into that dominating man. His childhood wasn’t easy (who’s ever is?) and I really hate Jenna for what she did. I know how much that can scar a person and that they carry it forever. I’m a walking billboard on that issue. However, I really love that I can see why Jack’s personality is strong and cautious. I can understand his doubts and conflicts. It makes him a more sympathetic character.
The story is exciting but the sex is smoking. Liz writes passionate scenes that will leave you breathless. House Rules is a fun read that I read in one sitting. I couldn’t stop! Make sure you get this book today!
July 27, 2014
I read this in a box set and the whole time I was reading I was wondering if it was an actual book. It seemed to be different event jumbled together. I had no idea what I was suppose to be getting out of the book. I felt as I was jumping around in time without any background knowledge. Further research showed me that this is a prequel. Most prequels I've read explain more about what happened in the series and fills in a couple of missing puzzle pieces. This however just left me confused and frustrated with no longing to read the series because I still don't grasp all of what is going on.
November 23, 2016
This is probably my second favorite in this series. Sometimes, such as this, it's nice for a writer to show you what the characters personality as well as weaknesses without stuffing it down your throat.
I enjoyed learning more about Jack. There were little pieces of him spread through the series but none quite like this. I didn't realize this should have been read first. But, again I truly think each of the books could stand alone it's still nice to meet each character and learn their story and how they fit into the big picture.
Jack was an ass as far as I was concerned. Conceited beyond measure and just had no time for anyone other than himself. Boy was I wrong.
I often wonder what happens behind the scenes. Both in real life and in novels. Everybody has their own issues, their struggles. Jack is no different.
When meeting his father I was a little indifferent until I got to know him better. Jack's personality was formed from a real shitty childhood. He is over eager to make his mark on the world and to earn everything he has with his own two hands. I respect that.
I would recommend this. Good book!
I enjoyed learning more about Jack. There were little pieces of him spread through the series but none quite like this. I didn't realize this should have been read first. But, again I truly think each of the books could stand alone it's still nice to meet each character and learn their story and how they fit into the big picture.
Jack was an ass as far as I was concerned. Conceited beyond measure and just had no time for anyone other than himself. Boy was I wrong.
I often wonder what happens behind the scenes. Both in real life and in novels. Everybody has their own issues, their struggles. Jack is no different.
When meeting his father I was a little indifferent until I got to know him better. Jack's personality was formed from a real shitty childhood. He is over eager to make his mark on the world and to earn everything he has with his own two hands. I respect that.
I would recommend this. Good book!
June 17, 2013
If you are a Liz Crowe fan, you know Jack, the handsome, in control, level-headed guy who always seems to be the in background of each story. Jack is the go-to guy, the answer man. FINALLY gives Jack his due! If you've ever wondered how he came to be the man he is, here's your answer, and its a good one! Liz Crowe takes the reader back to Jack's youth, from his mother's death to his father's callous indiscretions to his love for his younger sister.
This prequel to the Stewart Realty Series is a must read! Its intense, entertaining and gives even more depth to the man who always stands by his friends.
Publication Date: June 15, 2013
Publisher: Tri Destiny Publishing
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Erotica
Recommended Age: Adult
My Rating: 5 stars
Available at: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
This prequel to the Stewart Realty Series is a must read! Its intense, entertaining and gives even more depth to the man who always stands by his friends.
Publication Date: June 15, 2013
Publisher: Tri Destiny Publishing
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Erotica
Recommended Age: Adult
My Rating: 5 stars
Available at: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
January 12, 2015
I read this Novella after I had finished the first 4 books in the series. This is a journey down Jack's early years. It helps explain how he came to be the kind of man he is as an adult. Plus, you get to meet a lot of the characters in the other books along the way.
Jacks early days are full of unhappiness. His father is a ruthless man who does not show his children love. His ways cause Jack's mother to overdose and die, leaving Jack and his sister Maureen to flounder under their father's ways. Blow after blow destroys Jack as he journeys down a path of sexual awakening. Each time he allows his heart to play into things, he gets it stomped on, further hardening his fragile heart. In this Novella, we get to understand his beginnings of manhood, and his utter destruction at the hands of Jenna. This book eventually gets us all the way to his wedding with Sara, filling in the gaps of books 1-3. This is a very eye opening look at the character you either love or hate, seeing as he can draw both emotions out of you. I did enjoy seeing what happened to make him the driven, wildly successful, yet emotionally stilted man he comes to be. This is an excellent addition to the Stewart Realty series, and I do believe this would be best read after book 3.
Jacks early days are full of unhappiness. His father is a ruthless man who does not show his children love. His ways cause Jack's mother to overdose and die, leaving Jack and his sister Maureen to flounder under their father's ways. Blow after blow destroys Jack as he journeys down a path of sexual awakening. Each time he allows his heart to play into things, he gets it stomped on, further hardening his fragile heart. In this Novella, we get to understand his beginnings of manhood, and his utter destruction at the hands of Jenna. This book eventually gets us all the way to his wedding with Sara, filling in the gaps of books 1-3. This is a very eye opening look at the character you either love or hate, seeing as he can draw both emotions out of you. I did enjoy seeing what happened to make him the driven, wildly successful, yet emotionally stilted man he comes to be. This is an excellent addition to the Stewart Realty series, and I do believe this would be best read after book 3.
December 30, 2014
Ok, I am now a fan of this series. I am a really newby at this series but I am hooked.
I would recommend reading this "prequel" after reading Book 1 of the Stewart Realty - Floor Time.
Wow! This is all I kept saying while I was reading this. It is like that V-8 moment or the Oprah's lightbulb moment when you put the pieces of the puzzle together that have been a mystery and you finally realize WHY!
Jack is adorable, gorgeous, rich, full of life, swooning handsome (did I say that before? Well it merits saying it again!) This man has practiced (a lot!) at becoming the best lover any woman ever had... but could never keep. The prequel takes you back to his last year in high school and on. It takes you through his journey of discovering his own sexuality and the impact his home life had on him.
I don't want to give too much away because I firmly believe the reader should experience these stories as the author meant them to be experienced. All I can say, this prequel was an eye opener! Enjoy it as much as I did!
I would recommend reading this "prequel" after reading Book 1 of the Stewart Realty - Floor Time.
Wow! This is all I kept saying while I was reading this. It is like that V-8 moment or the Oprah's lightbulb moment when you put the pieces of the puzzle together that have been a mystery and you finally realize WHY!
Jack is adorable, gorgeous, rich, full of life, swooning handsome (did I say that before? Well it merits saying it again!) This man has practiced (a lot!) at becoming the best lover any woman ever had... but could never keep. The prequel takes you back to his last year in high school and on. It takes you through his journey of discovering his own sexuality and the impact his home life had on him.
I don't want to give too much away because I firmly believe the reader should experience these stories as the author meant them to be experienced. All I can say, this prequel was an eye opener! Enjoy it as much as I did!
May 27, 2014
Jack has seen a lot in his time. He has a father who treats his mother like crap, he walks in on his father having sex with another woman & finds his mom dead on the kitchen floor.
Jack needs sex and he finds many women willing to put out. He soon realizes that something is missing in his life but finds what he needs at a club, or so he thinks. But one day when he is just ready to throw in the towel, he meets a woman who is totally goi to change his world, Sara.
Jack needs sex and he finds many women willing to put out. He soon realizes that something is missing in his life but finds what he needs at a club, or so he thinks. But one day when he is just ready to throw in the towel, he meets a woman who is totally goi to change his world, Sara.
July 21, 2014
This story stars off with Jack Gordon Jr finding his mother on the kitchen floor, laying in her own blood filled vomit.
This introduces us to Jack's upbringing which shapes who he is in the future, a guy looking for a stable home life.
There is a big jump from the last chapter where Jack meets Sara, to the Epilogue where they are getting married, but don't worry, there are three more stories sold separately which fill this blank spot.
Great reading
This introduces us to Jack's upbringing which shapes who he is in the future, a guy looking for a stable home life.
There is a big jump from the last chapter where Jack meets Sara, to the Epilogue where they are getting married, but don't worry, there are three more stories sold separately which fill this blank spot.
Great reading
October 10, 2013
The book was extremely well written, and made me interested enough in the characters to read more of the series. However - and this has no reflection on the author's ability - I am not really a fan of BDSM stories. I did find that the BDSM was mild and not in detail, so I was easily able to get past it and enjoy the book.
October 21, 2014
Please realize that the epilogue is a spoiler!!! I wish I had stopped reading. Loved the characters but I'm really not sure I get Mr. Gordon. I almost wished I had read this after I read the series. I think his early story would have made more impact. Good read just either read it after the series or don't read the epilogue.
September 8, 2014
I've read this short introduction.
struggled with it a bit as I'm not sure if its my kind of read or not.
That being said, its not the books fault, its mine for choosing to read it. I'm going to go onto book 1
struggled with it a bit as I'm not sure if its my kind of read or not.
That being said, its not the books fault, its mine for choosing to read it. I'm going to go onto book 1
July 22, 2015
absolutely utterly loved this. It broke me to learn about what made him the way he is. he's the epitome of alpha for me. I only wished it was a lot lot longer. you can never have enough jack ever!!!
April 30, 2014
This is a prequel novella telling the back story of Jack, the main character in the Stewart Realty series. There's some stereotypical characters and not a ton of real plot, but it's a quick read before starting the first book in the actual series, which is much better! (grownups only)
May 20, 2020
I really wanted to get into this book but I felt like this whole book fell flat. I sometimes thing the prequels shouldn't have been written because they just start feeling lacking compare to the rest of the book series. This book really turned me off from the series though.
July 4, 2013
Short hot prequel.
September 30, 2013
What a great book to get to know our ever beloved Jack!
July 29, 2013
I love all things Jack Gordon
August 26, 2013
love Jack's side
September 6, 2013
Good intro on Jack Gordon, and I'm looking forward to the next series of Stewart realty.
November 15, 2013
As usual a fantastic insight on my fav character Mr. Jack Gordon. A wonderful trip down memory lane and getting a deeper sense into Jack's psyche.
Wonderfully written!!
Wonderfully written!!
September 2, 2014
so I read this book in a book bundle, and they put the final chapter of the last book in this book. Now that I know the ending, why would I read the middle books?
August 5, 2015
Good intro book to this series, the end leaves you eager for the next book in this series
April 25, 2015
It was alright, but I didn't convince me to read this series...
September 6, 2015
Going to try Floor Time for the 5th time now and see if I can get through it.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews