Amyris Jackson is driven by her desire to become a supermodel. At eighteen and against her father’s wishes, Amyris moves to another country, hoping to make her dreams a reality. Before she can hit the ground running, her life takes a turn she hadn’t expected after meeting and marrying Ivo Yannik—a man who lured her into the union under false pretenses.
Six years later, Amyris hardly recognizes the woman she’s become after being forced into escorting by an abusive husband. Having exhausted every opportunity to escape, she’s about to give up, but a chance encounter with the owner of a jewelry shop changes everything.
Frances ‘Foxx’ Matisse requires two things from they must be beautiful and taken. As a man who prefers having no strings attached or feelings involved, he has his sights set on pursuing Amyris. Foxx’s plan to get the beauty in his bed is halted after learning about her husband’s affiliation with the Matisse Corporation. Refusing to cross a line punishable by death, he tosses the idea of having Amyris, but fate has other plans.
Foxx and Amyris’s lives collide repeatedly until they can no longer resist temptation. While Foxx is providing Amyris a safe space, he breaks his own no-feelings rule and they grow closer. Knowing the risk of their affair, they continue to explore what could be. The odds are stacked against them, but could they make it work, or will the bylaws keep them apart?
While I did enjoy this story..something was missing for me. There was a lot of build up on the Ivo, Amyris, and Foxx triangle but the drama fell a little flat for me. Especially when we didn’t really get to it until almost the end of the book. The chemistry between Foxx and Amyris was cute and he was such a stand up guy. I admired how he stepped up for her no matter what she was forced to do before him. Ivo was psychotic. Real bad. He made Amyris’ life hell because he couldn’t fully live in his truth. He got what he deserved although I wanted Frisco to put his dogs on him 😃 Loved that Yakima made some appearances. Boss Baby is still running thangs 🖤
Foxx tending to want married women (for specific reasons we find out later) is one thing. The one time he seems interested in a woman and finds out she’s married is absolutely karma and someone in the organization's wife?!? Mannnnn Bianca made this story come to life because after reading the synopsis I had no clue how this would work! Amyris had no idea the fine jewelry store owner would be her knight in shining armor! Their random encounters were only proving to be a fated situation but whew were the stakes high on both sides. Amyris's husband Ivo was insane! Ivo at those apartments in that first chapter pissed me off so badly because from the jump we knew this man was trash. He was doing everything to Amyris knowing that this was his last chance to get right with his marriage and grandfather. Ivo’s big reveal literally shocked me cause I think he was jealous of Amyris for not only her potential career but the way people loved her. Therapy really could’ve helped him. I feel like I’ve said a lot but not much at all because Foxx is a protector and provider and wasn’t letting Amyris go! Even with her being frustrated at times I understood her because she had been through so much! Their HEA was everything but that boat scene?!? Nah Bianca did that but I did laugh at her closing her eyes lmao! Like bffr why would she do that?!? Lol Lastly this was a slow burn but baby it was worth it!! 🔥🔥🔥
BIG POPPA!! Frances Matisse V!!! That is it. That is all.
I was worried because I loved Frisco so much and didn’t know if this book would measure up… well let me tell you something, IT DID!!!
This book was different because Foxx was different from Frisco. Now it wasn’t without drama but Foxx and Amyris both were funny af to me. I can’t wait until the next book. I’m guessing it’s Finn, the logical one.
I had to take some time to think about this review. I'll start by saying that Bianca is a talented author. This book was quite different from Frisco. Ivo was an evil, bitch ass nigga with an ego. I'm not sure whether the therapy session was an attempt at redemption, but if so, it failed. This guy had the arrogance to believe he was running shit and he was a paranoid cokehead. Amyris... Amyris ain't do nothing but politely pop that pussy. Honestly, all I wanted was for her to show some courage and save herself. It's as though she gave up and then reacted when others questioned her desire to escape Ivo's abusive, unhinged ass. Foxx and Myr are instantly attracted to one another upon meeting. They are both drawn to one another and eager to take a chance on a potential future together. Even the MC regulations that state a boss must be executed for sleeping with another boss's wife won't stop them. This book was lacking in certain areas towards the end. Just as I loved Foxx, I wasnt a fan of Amyris. I mean any man willing to die for me is a 10 in my book. It was a bit of a letdown that all the tension, worry, and anxieties that had been building throughout the novel fizzled out in the last pages. The conclusion left me wanting more.... I didn't really see a romance between Foxx and Myr. Which wasn't a problem for me since the excitement and suspense more than made up for it. I could see why they were attracted to one more due to their playful banter, but Foxx seemed to be doing all the heavy lifting. The connection between Amyris and her father felt rushed, and the fact that he was in the same city as his daughter but didn't go save her made no sense but I am excited for the next book in the Matisse brothers' series.
Whew the stress that I felt almost throughout the entire book, Lawwwwd!! Bianca wrote tf out of this book!! I can't even get my thoughts together lol.
Foxx, I loved him. He was an underboss and obviously he had a no nonsense side, but everything about him screamed protector. After a terrible heartbreak when he was young, he hoped he would never be in love that deeply again. Then the "World Stopped," when Amyris walked into his store. He was intrigued and after she kept crossing his paths, he felt like God was reaffirming that she was his one. Omg this story was just so stressful. Amyris was down bad in an abusive relationship, that she could not find her way out of. Mentally Ivo, her husband, had mind control over her and she tip toed on eggshells to keep herself from physical harm. Ivo was disgusting, I literally hated everything about him. He was a psycho and because he felt like he had no control over who he was, he inserted his power and control over Amyris. She was young and naiive and didn't know how to get out all of the bs he drug her into.
Foxx was her breath of fresh air. You could literally feel her spirit lift when she was around him. Amyris was so light and free whenever they interacted and whenever she was forced to go home to Ivo she would clam back into a shell of herself. I hurt for her and at every turn I was hoping she would just kill Ivo. Extreme, I know, but not really because he was literally the scum on the bottom of your shoe. She was just surviving the best she could and Foxx wanted more for her.
At a point I was so stressed I thought we were going to miss out on the big LOVE story, but I was sooooo wrong. Foxx, damn, he literally put everything on the line for Amyris. He was ready to give up everything just so she could be free. His love for her was so certain and deep that even she had a hard time wrapping her brain around it. This main was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for a woman that wasn't his on paper, but was definitely his in God's eyes.
Yall, this story was so good. It's a roller coaster ride, one you will definitely have a hard time getting off of. Beautiful read!
Ms. Bianca ate and left no crumbs with this second installment of Welcome to the Woods. If you thought Frisco was the ish wait until you really meet Foxx. He’s sexy, witty, and funny. He’s a a protector, provider and a romantic at heart. After his first love shredded his heart, Foxx decided that married women was were it was at. His only rule, he’s only having fun and once your husband starts acting crazy, it’s over. Despite being shot in the leg by an ex lover’s husband, Foxx still wants all the smoke.
What’s that saying? Young, dumb, and full of cum, that is everybody’s cum except her husbands. Amyris at the age of 19, married her psycho, sick husband after only knowing him for a weekend. When I say the biggest sham and scam of the century, that’s what Myr’s marriage was. That man used, abused and pimped her out. He was Iceberg Slim and she was insert famous prostitute.
When Foxx and Myr meet, it’s instant attraction on both parts. They both see something in each other and both are willing to risk it all. Not even the MC bylaws, which condemns a boss to death for messing with another boss’s wife will deter them.
My only complaint is that Mrs. Matisse seemed to have gone harder on Kima in book one than she did Myr. Considering the circumstances she definitely should have been a little more indignant with Myr.
I’m assuming Finn’s story is next and I can’t wait to see if he will steal me away from my (welcome to the woods) book bae Foxx.
Foxx was worth the wait! The standalone story took me on an emotional journey. Bianca continues to write stories that leave me pondering, "How is this going to turn out?" She wrote the heck out of this story, and I ate every single page up. The opening chapter was bittersweet because there was an update on my favorite characters. During this scene, Foxx gets approached with a proposition he cannot turn down. I'm sure falling in love with another man's wife was not on his to-do list, especially one affiliated with the corporation.
Amyris is a former plus-size model; and married to Ivo, a "has been." Foxx is the brother of Frisco and was covering his duties while he was away for his honeymoon. Foxx marches to the beat of his drum, and I appreciated that. I loved Amyris and Foxx's first encounter because her innocence captured his attention. I could feel the instant attraction. Their banter was sweet, and their chemistry shined throughout. Foxx would do anything for Amyris! We STAN! Their love was forbidden, but I think it was fate that continued to place them near each other. Ivo did a number on her mentally, but no fear Foxx worked to undo all the negatives bestowed upon Amyris. Ivo had one too many chances for me; I was waiting for him to sleep permanently.
The book has complex characters, mob ties, steamy sexual scenes, and a good balance of comedic relief. Some of the sex scenes had me clutching my eyes! Whew, they went at it! There are heavy topics discussed, so take heed and practice self-care. I appreciated this story so much. I cannot wait for more of these brothers!
While you’re running through this book, twisting and turning through the plot, watch out for them trees, cuz welcome back to The Woods baby! This is becoming one of my favorite series and I can’t wait to see what Bianca does with the rest of the Matisse brothers!
I must say I didn't enjoy this one as much as Frisco book. It was still a good read. Foxx is just that guy. Amyrisa did irritate me. I would have been done damage to Ivo, but I understand.
Poppa, Frankie, big daddy! Whatever you want to call it!
My oh my I flew through this book omg. The Matisse family have me lost for words literally. I’m so glad they received their happy ending because the hell and hot waters they were treading 😭😭😭🥺
I didn’t know what to expect when I opened this book but imma tell you a commitment phobe Foxx falling fast and hard wasn’t it LOL! I think my dude was gone in two days. I understand it because I could feel the longing and sexual chemistry between Foxx and Amyris! It literally drips off the page. The tone of this book for me is a complete 180 from Frisco. Add in the fact that it’s a slow-ish burn with content that I struggle with, I was ready to DNF! However, my bae’s told me what to expect, so I pushed through in three days( don’t judge me). I’m so glad I did!! I’m a huge fan of character driven stories so reading this couple develop and transform on page excited me. Their vibe, conversation, vulnerability and banter was immaculate. Baby I was cackling every other page from their shenanigans. I shipped them immediately regardless of the elephants in the room! Amyris deserved the love, attention and admiration she received from Foxx. After dealing with a husband who made it his mission to tear her down due to his insecurities this is a timely win. The way he empowered her melted me. My biggest drawback is the drama with Amyris husband Ivo. There was so much buildup for it to just fall completely flat. Certain aspects should’ve been flesh out on page. Also, I did enjoy Foxx stepping up and calling out Amyris’s dad but I wouldve preferred an on page conversation with Amyris and her dad more. Overall, this book is a good addition to the series. The pacing became slow at times, but Bianca was able to blend comedy, instalove & mafia elements into a drama full and enjoyable read. I can’t wait to see what she has next for this family, I’m truly locked in.
I think I like Foxx more than Frisco but I'm still struggling with that. Can I start by saying Ivo is an idiot? He's just not smart. Ok, now that that's out of the way, this book stressed me OUT. Amyris was so sweet and so naive, I just wanted to give her a hug. Foxx was interesting, him only wanting to deal with married women made me laugh but once it was explained it made so much sense. This was definitely a slow burn but it was done so well. Bianca really had me locked in, like I don't think I put this down until I finished it. I enjoyed learning more about the organization and seeing family interactions from Foxx's pov. Foxx and Amyris, there was something so innocent and pure about them. I know that might not make sense to most but they just felt right. THE ENDING though....why would Bianca stress me out like that? I was ready to be in mourning. 5 stars from me and I cannot wait to be back in the The Woods.
5 stars ⭐️ I know like heck there needs to be more in this series 😩 this sequel did not disappoint in the slightest. In fact, I enjoyed this one even more than the first book.
Foxx is just the right amount of boss without being scary for no reason. He is also an undercover loverboy and I just live for that entirely. The way he stands on business about Amyris? Ugh be still my heart! And Amyris, bless her heart, has been living a nightmare for years but she remains so smart and kind and hopeful that this isn’t how her story ends. She’s not the bravest but I don’t fault her at all. While this book doesn’t get as graphic with the trauma as say Kennedy Ryan’s Long Shot, make no mistake that Amyris is a survivor in every sense of the word.
The romance was very passionate, not unlike the first book. I ate it tf up yes ma’am I sure did. They had me kicking my little feeties and swooning. The banter had me laughing out loud. Ivo’s crazy ass had me yelling and shaking my head. The drama had me crying. I literally went through every range of emotions in this and I WANT MORE! I see I’m just gonna have to read everything Bianca Xaviera has ever written 🤷🏽♀️
Frances Matisse (Foxx) has closed himself off to love after getting his heart broken and vowed to only mess with married women so there’s no commitment. A chance meeting with Amyris Jackson, the wife of Ivo Yannik, the grandson of another boss in their organization. There are rules in the organization, bosses cannot sleep with other bosses wives and this extends to their sons etc but Foxx just can’t help himself. After numerous surprise encounters Foxx and Amyris start dating and fall for each other but how is she going to get away from her abusive husband and how will Foxx escape punishment from the organization.
I Love Foxx, he’s my favorite of the Matisse brothers (so far). Bianca Xaviera really knows how to write banter without it being corny. I was actually laughing at Foxx and Amyris’ interactions as well as the banter between Foxx and his brothers. I also cried during this book because Amyris’ husband is the biggest piece of shit! Like Foxx just swooped in and took care of her and allowed her to be herself and didn’t hold what she’d been through against her. Foxx is such a lover boy, and i loved it!!
Dark, toxic, and intense are the best words to describe this book. Sprinkle in some spice, sharp humor, and playful banter, and you’ve got a story that kept me fully locked in. This installment follows the second Matisse brother and his forbidden attraction to the wife of a business associate. Instead of using his head and avoiding a life-or-death situation, he follows his heart—and risks everything to save the woman he’s fallen for.
There were no trigger warnings listed, but please protect your mental if you’re sensitive to themes of domestic violence or narcissistic abuse.
This was an immersive reading experience and the narrators absolutely delivered. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
I really enjoyed this one. Foxx was a lover boy. It was kind of a slow burn with a nice build up between the two main characters. I would think Amyris would be very weary of speaking to other men. The author made her thirsty as soon as she saw Foxx.
The writing is very repetitive. The author definitely needed to have included trigger warnings on this one.
Whew, this book was an emotional rollercoaster. Very well written, great storyline and character development. Amyris spent six years of her life dealing with physical and emotional abuse being with Ivo. Her determination to leave and meeting Foxx kept her from hitting rock bottom again. The attraction between Amyris and Foxx was undeniable. Although they were faced with plenty of risks and backlash, I loved how Foxx didn't about that but was very protective and determined to save Amyris. What I loved the most was the family coming together in support of them, and Amyris finally reunited and rebuilding her relationship with her father. These Matisse brothers are showing their softer side and winning the hearts of the women who capture their eye. Hope there is a story for another Matisse brother. Overall, great read.
I have enjoyed the "welcome to the wood" collection. I am hoping Free book is next, and if so, I know it will be just as good as the other two. This will be a re-read, too! I've laughed so hard reading this book, and the storyline is just awesome.
You definitely outdid yourself with this one. This book had me stressed and on edge the entire time especially when I got to he who shall not be named pov.
As for Amyris I really tried to empathize with her but lawd have mercy she really pissed me off sometimes.
I freaking love Frances' sense of humor. Matter of fact all the brothers had a really good sense of humor no matter how serious the situation was.
Foxx knew that Ivo would be a problem the first time he came in contact with him. Ivan trying to get someone to look out for him was not going to happen. Ivo had too many bad habits, and mistreating Amyris was the worst. Once Foxx and Amyris met, the chemistry was instantly there. Foxx finding out about Ivo mistreating her, just made it easier for him to decide he would take Amyris. He knew being with her was forbidden, but it didn't stop him from falling. Once he rescued her, that's all that mattered. Everything worked out for the best, and they were happy. Amazing read!
“Foxx” by Bianca Xaviera is an electrifying read that redefines the contours of forbidden romance. With a storyline that pulses with intensity and passion, Xaviera crafts a narrative that is both compelling and provocative. The protagonist, Francis Mattise V, known as “Foxx,” is a character crafted with depth and complexity. His aversion to vulnerability, shaped by a past heartbreak, leads him down a path of fleeting encounters, preferring the uncomplicated nature of liaisons with married women. However, Amyris Jackson, a seemingly typical choice for Foxx’s escapades, turns out to be anything but ordinary.
Amyris, married to a member of Foxx’s mob, Ivan Yannick, embodies a level of forbidden that is not just dangerous but potentially deadly. The stakes are high, and the consequences of their entanglement could be fatal. Yet, Amyris is not merely a figure of desire; she is a woman caught in a web of abuse and treachery at the hands of her husband. Foxx’s realization of her plight shifts his perspective, transforming a forbidden desire into a noble cause, demonstrating his willingness to risk everything for her.
Xaviera’s writing shines in her ability to convey the intensity of the characters’ emotions and the precariousness of their situation. The narrative is fast-paced, making “Foxx” a book that is hard to put down. The author masterfully employs the trope of forbidden romance, reminding readers of its timeless allure and the depths of passion and sacrifice it can inspire.
What makes “Foxx” particularly remarkable is Xaviera’s skill in description. She brings scenes to life with vivid imagery and emotional depth, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world she has created. The complexity of the characters, particularly Foxx and Amyris, adds layers to the narrative, making it not just a story of forbidden love, but also one of redemption, courage, and the transformative power of love.
Former plus size model Amyris Jackson is stuck in a loveless and abusive marriage. After an compromising situation with Foxx at her job Amyris is more focused than ever with planning to escape from her husband Foxx couldn’t deny the attraction for Amyris as soon as he seen her. Despite every red flag in the world Foxx couldn’t help but pursue her. A red flag never stopped him before. Foxx has a known interest in messing with married women. Past heartbreak for him and poor decisions after have made Foxx who he is an Amyris is the one who made him who he needs to be. This was a little slower than Frisco but still great. I wanted Amyris to stop being weak in the knees and stand up a couple times but she was so stuck in the drama of it all she didn’t realize Foxx was really saving her. Foxx despite his character flaws manages to make himself so lovable because he goes hard for his family and his business. I wanna read more about these Matisse Men.
When I first read the synopsis I did not what to think. Like how is this book gonna end. And the story was taking turns I didn’t see coming. If you read Frisco you know Foxx is his brother right under him. While Frisco is out of the country and unable to “in charge” Foxx is having to take on his duties. Taking those duties on did not mean fall in love with someone who is unforbidden within the corporation. Myr is a former plus size model and is married to a “has been model Ivo.. Ivo has done a number on our girl Amyris. I love the banter between Foxx and Myr and the way Foxx rides for her is like no other. He will do absolutely anything when I say Anything for her! The author kept me engaged and had me clutch my imaginary pearls a few times. Five stars!! I love it in the Woods!!
I was extremely disappointed. The premise of this was attention grabbing and I was excited. Unfortunately this was damn near a copy and paste of the other book with a different plot. For Amyris to be in a long term abusive relationship she didn’t act like it. Her character was just unbelievable. Up until 49% I kept feeling like I was reading about Frisco and his woman whenever Frances and Amyris were together. I was over it and just decided to skip to the end. Their happily ever after was beautiful.
Foxx aka Big Poppa was a protector in every aspect and I enjoyed watching him do his absolute best to give Myr exactly what she didn’t think she deserved. They both were funny and witty with cute emotional moments. I did start to feel a disconnect somewhere along the way. I thought it would be more drama because it felt anticlimactic at a point. Nevertheless, it was a good read. Definitely was super surprised at Ivo’s reveal. Loved seeing Kima and Frisco!!🖤