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Fighting the Forbidden
My best friend’s little sister is the ultimate forbidden fruit.
I’m the bad boy. She’s the good girl.
I’ve fought for survival all my life. My best friend and I have built an empire with our fists, sweat, and blood.
There's nothing I won't do to protect her, no matter the sacrifice – even my own heart.
I should know better than to want her. She’s got big dreams that don’t involve me.
I need to set her free so she can escape our small town. Not just for her sake–if her brother finds out about us, it’s more than my heart that could be broken.
But one kiss from her soft lips, I know I’ll never let her go.
USA Today bestselling author Autumn Jones Lake welcomes you to her captivating new series full of passion, longing, and the unbreakable bonds of chosen family.
I’m the bad boy. She’s the good girl.
I’ve fought for survival all my life. My best friend and I have built an empire with our fists, sweat, and blood.
There's nothing I won't do to protect her, no matter the sacrifice – even my own heart.
I should know better than to want her. She’s got big dreams that don’t involve me.
I need to set her free so she can escape our small town. Not just for her sake–if her brother finds out about us, it’s more than my heart that could be broken.
But one kiss from her soft lips, I know I’ll never let her go.
USA Today bestselling author Autumn Jones Lake welcomes you to her captivating new series full of passion, longing, and the unbreakable bonds of chosen family.
516 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2024
405 people are currently reading
757 people want to read
About the author
Autumn Jones Lake
50 books3,538 followersAutumn is the USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of the popular Lost Kings MC and Hollywood Demons series. Autumn firmly believes that true love stories never end and that is reflected in the stories she tells.
Her past lives include baking cookies, slinging shoes, and practicing law.
She was born and raised in upstate New York, where most of her books are set. Autumn still enjoys all four seasons there with her very own alpha hero.
You can ask Autumn questions on Goodreads and easily find her on Facebook.
Sign-up for her newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/bTSNkn
Join the Autumn's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LostK...
Follow Autumn on Book Bub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/autum...
Visit Autumn here:
http://www.autumnjoneslake.com
Email Autumn: AutumnJLake@gmail.com
Her past lives include baking cookies, slinging shoes, and practicing law.
She was born and raised in upstate New York, where most of her books are set. Autumn still enjoys all four seasons there with her very own alpha hero.
You can ask Autumn questions on Goodreads and easily find her on Facebook.
Sign-up for her newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/bTSNkn
Join the Autumn's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LostK...
Follow Autumn on Book Bub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/autum...
Visit Autumn here:
http://www.autumnjoneslake.com
Email Autumn: AutumnJLake@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
February 25, 2025
*2.5* A little too syrupy sweet until the very end.
Age gap
Brother’s best friend
Virgin heroine
Found family
Cage fighter
Small town
Slow burn
YA feeling, some intimacy
Teenage drama
Reality show subplot
Cliffhanger ending
Warning, ranting review that won’t make sense unless you read the book.
Have these people never watched a reality show before?!
Griff deserves a better best friend, and definitely a new girlfriend, for how easily they bought into some manufactured reality show drama over the man they’ve known for years.
Molly really shows her immaturity by what she does to his car, such a huge disappointment.
Age gap
Brother’s best friend
Virgin heroine
Found family
Cage fighter
Small town
Slow burn
YA feeling, some intimacy
Teenage drama
Reality show subplot
Cliffhanger ending
Warning, ranting review that won’t make sense unless you read the book.
Have these people never watched a reality show before?!
Griff deserves a better best friend, and definitely a new girlfriend, for how easily they bought into some manufactured reality show drama over the man they’ve known for years.
Molly really shows her immaturity by what she does to his car, such a huge disappointment.
March 31, 2024
“I don’t want to lose my best friend, but I refuse to lose Molly.”
Fighting the Forbidden by Autumn Jones Lake dives headfirst into the deep waters of forbidden romance, exploring the age-old trope of the best friend’s little sister with a fresh and captivating perspective. The narrative unfolds around Remy, Emily, and Griff, characters whose dynamics have simmered on the periphery of the Lost Kings world, awaiting their turn in the spotlight. Emily, almost 18, becomes the focal point of a forbidden desire that has been brewing between her and Griff for years.
“It doesn’t matter, Molly. You can have anything of mine you want.”
Jones Lake skillfully weaves a tale of love, loyalty, and internal conflict, as Griff grapples with the intensity of his feelings for Emily while navigating the delicate balance of friendship with Remy. The emotional tension is palpable as Griff struggles with the fear of irreparable damage to his lifelong bond with Remy, knowing that pursuing Emily could jeopardize the foundation of their relationship.
“You’re mine to protect. Always.”
Autumn Jones Lake masterfully captures the essence of forbidden love, delving into the emotional complexities that arise when boundaries are tested. The chemistry between Griff and Emily is electric, and the author’s vivid descriptions bring their emotions to life, allowing readers to become fully immersed in this read. LOKI fans will be thrilled to have some cameo appearances of some of their favorite characters and as always there is plenty of drama as the plot unfolds.
“Change is always scary.”
Overall, Fighting the Forbidden delivers a captivating exploration of love’s boundaries and forbidden romance. With well-developed characters and a plot filled with emotional highs and lows, this novel is a compelling first edition to the Ruthless and Royal Series, offering readers a thought-provoking journey into the complexities of love, friendship, and loyalty. I’m excited for more!
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January 25, 2024FIGHTING THE FORBIDDEN (Ruthless & Royal #1)
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June 27, 2024
I looooooved Griff! He was such a nice change from all the gross H’s I’ve been reading lately!! And I really liked Molly as well! Based on the reviews I read, I was expecting her to be super immature and wasn’t expecting to like her. I was pleasantly surprised though because I really didn’t find her all that immature for her age and I just really enjoyed her
And I love the way the author played out the whole brother’s best friend trope. The way Remy was is how EVERY brother should be ( minus the little thing he did to try to push Griff into confessing🙃) when they find out their bff wants to date their sister
Honorable mention to Griff getting Molly’s three friends a flower the day after prom because he knew they had a rough night. Normally that’s not something I would like, because I’m possessive, but I thought it was so sweet. Especially since he made sure it was ok with Molly AND made sure they were pink and not red because red roses were reserved for her! I just thought this was a super sweet and thoughtful thing to do
Also if you want to read this and are worried about cheating, don’t be! Griff is 1000% all about Molly from the beginning and would never jeopardize that with anyone else
And I love the way the author played out the whole brother’s best friend trope. The way Remy was is how EVERY brother should be ( minus the little thing he did to try to push Griff into confessing🙃) when they find out their bff wants to date their sister
Honorable mention to Griff getting Molly’s three friends a flower the day after prom because he knew they had a rough night. Normally that’s not something I would like, because I’m possessive, but I thought it was so sweet. Especially since he made sure it was ok with Molly AND made sure they were pink and not red because red roses were reserved for her! I just thought this was a super sweet and thoughtful thing to do
Also if you want to read this and are worried about cheating, don’t be! Griff is 1000% all about Molly from the beginning and would never jeopardize that with anyone else
January 30, 2024
This book was slooow… I just don’t think I can handle the high school senior, slow love drama, it’s too unbelievable. There’s no way Molly and all his friends have such little faith in him, if do they aren’t his friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2024
2.5 stars
I’m a LOKI FAN. I one-click them all. But this one was…not for me.
Maybe because it was YA.
Maybe because the taboo “brothers best friend” scenario was easily resolved in the first few chapters and the rest just felt like filler.
Maybe because Molly has only just turned 18 and is annoyingly naive, verging on TSTL by the time the cliffhanger drops. I wasn’t expecting Murphy and Heidi More Than Miles but come on. At least make her think rationally.
It also surprised me how little Griff and Remy have to do with LOKI and there’s next to nothing about the support club they’re supposed to be setting up. If anything this book tears down any ideas I previously had about Griff and Remy being successful self-made entrepreneurs on their own. Which was perhaps the most interesting thing about this book.
Then there’s the reality show plotline and how it’s played out amongst this group is not only done at lightening speed, it’s also totally ridiculous. Remy told him going in they couldn’t be trusted. They’d manipulate. They’d edit it however they liked…and yet not one of the friend group seems to remember that, setting up the big cliffhanger of frustration.
Seriously, I’ve never been so underwhelmed by one of this authors books before. Where I would usually devour it this one took over 2 weeks to finish. At this stage I won’t be rushing out to get the second book.
YMMV.
I’m a LOKI FAN. I one-click them all. But this one was…not for me.
Maybe because it was YA.
Maybe because the taboo “brothers best friend” scenario was easily resolved in the first few chapters and the rest just felt like filler.
Maybe because Molly has only just turned 18 and is annoyingly naive, verging on TSTL by the time the cliffhanger drops. I wasn’t expecting Murphy and Heidi More Than Miles but come on. At least make her think rationally.
It also surprised me how little Griff and Remy have to do with LOKI and there’s next to nothing about the support club they’re supposed to be setting up. If anything this book tears down any ideas I previously had about Griff and Remy being successful self-made entrepreneurs on their own. Which was perhaps the most interesting thing about this book.
Then there’s the reality show plotline and how it’s played out amongst this group is not only done at lightening speed, it’s also totally ridiculous. Remy told him going in they couldn’t be trusted. They’d manipulate. They’d edit it however they liked…and yet not one of the friend group seems to remember that, setting up the big cliffhanger of frustration.
Seriously, I’ve never been so underwhelmed by one of this authors books before. Where I would usually devour it this one took over 2 weeks to finish. At this stage I won’t be rushing out to get the second book.
YMMV.
February 2, 2024
Unfortunately, this was a letdown for me. And it pains me to write this as I'm one of the biggest LOKI fans.
1st. This reads as a YA book with smutt. I'm not into the insecure underaged FMC and her crew of barbie-like friends. I felt like I was reading a remake of MEAN Girls.
2nd. I love AJL with all my heart... But... The quality of the stories, the plot lines are getting "meh"... A reality show? Again? An insecure FMC who doubts everything? Again? Molly is a mini-Serena... who herself is a version of Hope.
3rd. Remy is a jerk. He is a shitty friend. He's known Griff for so long that they are practically brothers... and yet, he doesn't know and trust Griff enough and blindly believes what he saw on screen.
Remy and Molly don't deserve Griff in their lives...
4th. This could have been one book. Just like Dex's story could have been one book. And Shelby's could have been 2 books and Grinder's could have been one book. I understand that everyone has bills to pay but... the stories get watered down to be stretched in multiple parts with annoying cliffhangers.
1st. This reads as a YA book with smutt. I'm not into the insecure underaged FMC and her crew of barbie-like friends. I felt like I was reading a remake of MEAN Girls.
2nd. I love AJL with all my heart... But... The quality of the stories, the plot lines are getting "meh"... A reality show? Again? An insecure FMC who doubts everything? Again? Molly is a mini-Serena... who herself is a version of Hope.
3rd. Remy is a jerk. He is a shitty friend. He's known Griff for so long that they are practically brothers... and yet, he doesn't know and trust Griff enough and blindly believes what he saw on screen.
Remy and Molly don't deserve Griff in their lives...
4th. This could have been one book. Just like Dex's story could have been one book. And Shelby's could have been 2 books and Grinder's could have been one book. I understand that everyone has bills to pay but... the stories get watered down to be stretched in multiple parts with annoying cliffhangers.
December 21, 2024
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I like Griff. I really do.
Which is why I am a little sad about how this book turned out to be.
Let me start by saying that in my opinion this book was lacking trigger warnings which highly influenced my subjective rating and review.
---
Everything I knew before reading was that the MMC has a crush on his best friend‘s sister and that he can’t have her. So I was surprised when I found that this was no slow-burn or actually fighting the forbidden but a rather quick dive into some sort of relationship.
I wasn’t mad, though, even if instalove is neither my favorite, not what I expected. I was curious enough to continue, if only to learn more about Griff.
CHARACTERS
While Griff might have a bad boy exterior, he is a cutie. Grumpy, a little morally grey and an absolute sweetheart when it comes to the FMC. Maybe the only thing I can criticise about him is that at times he felt a little too polished. But whenever I felt that, he usually ended up doing something to give him some edge. He was balanced and surprisingly well reflected for his age but it added up and didn't feel wrong.
Molly, our FMC, is sweet, curious yet anxious, open-minded yet innocent.
While her character in general was rather mature, it was easy to see how and why the same didn’t apply to her sexuality – and it worked.
To see how Griff treated her, the evolving dynamic between them, patient and understanding, was beautiful.
I cannot say too much about the side characters as I believe there are other books set in the same universe that talk about some of their stories. As a standalone, they were plenty with maybe too little explanations or backstories and at times it was hard for me to keep track. I assume that it would have been easier had I known about the other books and read them first.
STORY
The story itself was slow-paced, driven only by surprisingly long time lapses that sometimes had me wondering whatever had happened in between those. For most parts, for me personally, the story even felt too slow – cute but with many seemingly irrelevant sub plots and I personally think the book could have been much shorter.
What I did not see coming nor particularly cared for was the sub-plot line leading up to the final conflict.
The final trope chosen by the author was one I unfortunately cannot name as this is a spoiler-free arc review.
What I will say, though, is:
I had an actual anxiety attack after reading it
This book, unfortunately, ended up being the perfect example of why Trigger Warnings are a thing and a necessity and I personally am furious about the lack of it.
THAT BEING SAID...
The characters were cute, well written and relatable. And while the plot seemed unnecessarily slow and the book, in my opinion, could have been half the size and still had the same effect, the writing was easy to read.
This could have made for a solid 3 – 3.5 star book, a cute fluffy romance that does what cute fluffy romances are supposed to do: make the reader feel good by the end of it.
But the way this book ended and the choice of tropes for the final arc, as well as the deliberate choice to not use trigger warnings, unfortunately tarnished the entire book for me personally.
This is a personal choice and opinion and others might very well love it for the exact same reason.
I, however, can no longer think of Griff or Molly without anxiety and angst and it makes me wish I had never read it.
I like Griff. I really do.
Which is why I am a little sad about how this book turned out to be.
Let me start by saying that in my opinion this book was lacking trigger warnings which highly influenced my subjective rating and review.
---
Everything I knew before reading was that the MMC has a crush on his best friend‘s sister and that he can’t have her. So I was surprised when I found that this was no slow-burn or actually fighting the forbidden but a rather quick dive into some sort of relationship.
I wasn’t mad, though, even if instalove is neither my favorite, not what I expected. I was curious enough to continue, if only to learn more about Griff.
CHARACTERS
While Griff might have a bad boy exterior, he is a cutie. Grumpy, a little morally grey and an absolute sweetheart when it comes to the FMC. Maybe the only thing I can criticise about him is that at times he felt a little too polished. But whenever I felt that, he usually ended up doing something to give him some edge. He was balanced and surprisingly well reflected for his age but it added up and didn't feel wrong.
Molly, our FMC, is sweet, curious yet anxious, open-minded yet innocent.
While her character in general was rather mature, it was easy to see how and why the same didn’t apply to her sexuality – and it worked.
To see how Griff treated her, the evolving dynamic between them, patient and understanding, was beautiful.
I cannot say too much about the side characters as I believe there are other books set in the same universe that talk about some of their stories. As a standalone, they were plenty with maybe too little explanations or backstories and at times it was hard for me to keep track. I assume that it would have been easier had I known about the other books and read them first.
STORY
The story itself was slow-paced, driven only by surprisingly long time lapses that sometimes had me wondering whatever had happened in between those. For most parts, for me personally, the story even felt too slow – cute but with many seemingly irrelevant sub plots and I personally think the book could have been much shorter.
What I did not see coming nor particularly cared for was the sub-plot line leading up to the final conflict.
The final trope chosen by the author was one I unfortunately cannot name as this is a spoiler-free arc review.
What I will say, though, is:
I had an actual anxiety attack after reading it
This book, unfortunately, ended up being the perfect example of why Trigger Warnings are a thing and a necessity and I personally am furious about the lack of it.
THAT BEING SAID...
The characters were cute, well written and relatable. And while the plot seemed unnecessarily slow and the book, in my opinion, could have been half the size and still had the same effect, the writing was easy to read.
This could have made for a solid 3 – 3.5 star book, a cute fluffy romance that does what cute fluffy romances are supposed to do: make the reader feel good by the end of it.
But the way this book ended and the choice of tropes for the final arc, as well as the deliberate choice to not use trigger warnings, unfortunately tarnished the entire book for me personally.
This is a personal choice and opinion and others might very well love it for the exact same reason.
I, however, can no longer think of Griff or Molly without anxiety and angst and it makes me wish I had never read it.
May 27, 2024
This is a mixed bag for me, it's not my favourite troupe, best friend's little sister plus reality TV show.
It's a duet. Dual POV.
It's connected to the author's other series but is primarily about the Hero, heroine and her brother.
The confession to the Hero being in love with the heroine to her brother is done well.
There is some funny banter between the characters.
Mixed up family backgrounds for each of them.
I wasn't keen on the way the age difference impacted their relationship.
We didn't get details of his dating life prior to them getting together other than it had been some time since he'd decided not to pursue anything with anyone else until she was ready to start a relationship with him, her turning 18.
My issue was more that we are given the impression she's mature for her age then he attends prom with her and suffers her friends dramas and all the gilrie boy talk.
This felt really childish to me. What man wants to be sorting out teenage boy drama, spiked drinks and the boy talk.
There is some other woman drama insinuated by the reality tv show he enters, the book ends on a cliffhanger.
By the blurb of book 2 and the way the production of the reality tv is being done it seems he isn't cheating on the heroine.
But apparently I appreciate the reality tv made things look bad but she's known Griff, the Hero for years and years and she and her brother have no faith in him.
Tbh the teenage drama filled a lot of the book and if we'd done without that I reckon it could have just been 1 book and it would have been better.
3 stars because the bits she writes well are good, the rest not so much.
Note from the author.
Fighting the Forbidden is for readers everywhere who love to see the bad boy get the good girl and treat her right. No cheating, abuse disguised as love, or mind games. He’s just straight-up obsessed with her.
Age gap
Brother’s best friend
Virgin heroine
Bad boy gets the good girl
Chosen family
Cage fighter
Morally gray hero
Small town
She comes first
It's a duet. Dual POV.
It's connected to the author's other series but is primarily about the Hero, heroine and her brother.
The confession to the Hero being in love with the heroine to her brother is done well.
There is some funny banter between the characters.
Mixed up family backgrounds for each of them.
I wasn't keen on the way the age difference impacted their relationship.
We didn't get details of his dating life prior to them getting together other than it had been some time since he'd decided not to pursue anything with anyone else until she was ready to start a relationship with him, her turning 18.
My issue was more that we are given the impression she's mature for her age then he attends prom with her and suffers her friends dramas and all the gilrie boy talk.
This felt really childish to me. What man wants to be sorting out teenage boy drama, spiked drinks and the boy talk.
There is some other woman drama insinuated by the reality tv show he enters, the book ends on a cliffhanger.
By the blurb of book 2 and the way the production of the reality tv is being done it seems he isn't cheating on the heroine.
But apparently I appreciate the reality tv made things look bad but she's known Griff, the Hero for years and years and she and her brother have no faith in him.
Tbh the teenage drama filled a lot of the book and if we'd done without that I reckon it could have just been 1 book and it would have been better.
3 stars because the bits she writes well are good, the rest not so much.
Note from the author.
Fighting the Forbidden is for readers everywhere who love to see the bad boy get the good girl and treat her right. No cheating, abuse disguised as love, or mind games. He’s just straight-up obsessed with her.
Age gap
Brother’s best friend
Virgin heroine
Bad boy gets the good girl
Chosen family
Cage fighter
Morally gray hero
Small town
She comes first
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2024
I hate to leave this review because I’m a huge AJL fan. That being said, this book disappointed me so much. I think the book was too long for really not much happening. The whole reality show trope has been done before with Shelby and the possibility of National. It’s kinda a rinse and repeat by now.
The cliffhanger made me so mad. Remy and Molly don’t deserve Griff. They are terrible friends to just believe he cheated from watching one episode of the reality show especially after Remy mentioned how those shows mess with the people participating.
Molly smashing the car shows her age and immaturity. 😡
I’m not sure if I’ll read the next book. Maybe if it’s Remy and Molly repairing the damage they’ve done.
The cliffhanger made me so mad. Remy and Molly don’t deserve Griff. They are terrible friends to just believe he cheated from watching one episode of the reality show especially after Remy mentioned how those shows mess with the people participating.
Molly smashing the car shows her age and immaturity. 😡
I’m not sure if I’ll read the next book. Maybe if it’s Remy and Molly repairing the damage they’ve done.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2024
A new series by one of my top authors and I was all over it!
If you've read Autumn's Lost Kings Series, you will have met Griff and Molly however don't worry if you haven't. Even though we get a few of the LOKI characters popping in, it's all explained.
BUT it is an excellent series so you're missing out if you haven't!!
Now, back to this book - best friends little sister and it really tugged at my heartstrings, Griff, Molly & Remy (Molly's brother/Griff's best mate) have grew up together, none of them had the best of childhoods although Molly and Remy had each other as well as Grandparents whereas Griff was alone so although he's loved Molly forever, he doesn't want to hurt Remy or loose him and I loved that.
I've read that before, but with these two I could feel how much he meant it! It was genuine and Autumn has a way of writing that makes everything feel so real.
These characters have had to grow up to quickly and yet there's still an innocence and maybe naivety to Molly. Remy and Griff have worked their butts of to look after her and Griff especially is planning a future that involves her, even if she doesn't know. And when he gets the chance to make extra money that will help their future, he takes it and that's when the keek hits the fan!!
He's a good guy and I adore him!
The side characters are interesting and loveable, I'm definitely hoping for more of them!
If you're looking for a read that will have you smiling, laughing and believing, then you got to read this!
Top marks on yet another top read!!
If you've read Autumn's Lost Kings Series, you will have met Griff and Molly however don't worry if you haven't. Even though we get a few of the LOKI characters popping in, it's all explained.
BUT it is an excellent series so you're missing out if you haven't!!
Now, back to this book - best friends little sister and it really tugged at my heartstrings, Griff, Molly & Remy (Molly's brother/Griff's best mate) have grew up together, none of them had the best of childhoods although Molly and Remy had each other as well as Grandparents whereas Griff was alone so although he's loved Molly forever, he doesn't want to hurt Remy or loose him and I loved that.
I've read that before, but with these two I could feel how much he meant it! It was genuine and Autumn has a way of writing that makes everything feel so real.
These characters have had to grow up to quickly and yet there's still an innocence and maybe naivety to Molly. Remy and Griff have worked their butts of to look after her and Griff especially is planning a future that involves her, even if she doesn't know. And when he gets the chance to make extra money that will help their future, he takes it and that's when the keek hits the fan!!
He's a good guy and I adore him!
The side characters are interesting and loveable, I'm definitely hoping for more of them!
If you're looking for a read that will have you smiling, laughing and believing, then you got to read this!
Top marks on yet another top read!!
January 26, 2024
**ARC Review – No Spoilers**
As a longtime fan of Autumn Jones Lake, I have been waiting for Griff and Molly’s story since they popped up together at a coffee shop in Warnings and Wildfires. Fighting the Forbidden (FTF) is book one is Autumn’s new Ruthless & Royal series and she did not disappoint. Even chapter one starts off with a spicy bang ;) .
Griff and Molly’s story is full of emotional ups and downs. Molly is the little sister of Griff’s best friend, Remy. The three of them grew up together dealing with unfortunate life events alone the way. Now that they have grown up, feelings between Griff and Molly ignite further but staying together will prove to be harder than both of them first thought. This book did leave me in tears (FYI I'm an emotional reading) but I’m keeping my fingers crossed book two will dry them for me.
As all good story go this book does end in a cliffhanger, but don’t worry book two (Repairing the Wreckage) will be dropping in April 2023. Since this is a new series, you do not have to read any of Autumn’s Lost Kings MC series prior to this book. However, I recommend you do (A) you can get more details and back stories about some very sexy bikers that might pop up in FTF and (B) the LOKI MC series is amazing and an absolute 5 start must read😊
#ruthlessandroyal #autumnjoneslake #agegap #BrothersBestFriend #ForbiddenLove #SwoonWorthyReads #HeartfeltReads #LoveInThePages #SteamyRomance #MustReadRomance #BookishChemistry #booktropes #arcreaders #spicyromance #romancebooks #spicyromancebooks
As a longtime fan of Autumn Jones Lake, I have been waiting for Griff and Molly’s story since they popped up together at a coffee shop in Warnings and Wildfires. Fighting the Forbidden (FTF) is book one is Autumn’s new Ruthless & Royal series and she did not disappoint. Even chapter one starts off with a spicy bang ;) .
Griff and Molly’s story is full of emotional ups and downs. Molly is the little sister of Griff’s best friend, Remy. The three of them grew up together dealing with unfortunate life events alone the way. Now that they have grown up, feelings between Griff and Molly ignite further but staying together will prove to be harder than both of them first thought. This book did leave me in tears (FYI I'm an emotional reading) but I’m keeping my fingers crossed book two will dry them for me.
As all good story go this book does end in a cliffhanger, but don’t worry book two (Repairing the Wreckage) will be dropping in April 2023. Since this is a new series, you do not have to read any of Autumn’s Lost Kings MC series prior to this book. However, I recommend you do (A) you can get more details and back stories about some very sexy bikers that might pop up in FTF and (B) the LOKI MC series is amazing and an absolute 5 start must read😊
#ruthlessandroyal #autumnjoneslake #agegap #BrothersBestFriend #ForbiddenLove #SwoonWorthyReads #HeartfeltReads #LoveInThePages #SteamyRomance #MustReadRomance #BookishChemistry #booktropes #arcreaders #spicyromance #romancebooks #spicyromancebooks
November 7, 2024
Avoir lu ce livre à 18 ans j’aurais probablement plus aimé le livre. Le public cible est beaucoup plus jeune adulte début vingtaine. Mais c’est bien écrit et pas le choix de lire le 2e pour savoir comment ça va se terminer cette histoire.
February 2, 2024
I love the lost kings series and through reading that I’ve been interested in Griff and Molly’s story. But it was just so easy to see what was gonna happen, that something with the show was gonna make Molly think Griff wasn’t faithful. And as an outsider knowing that the producer of the show are probably just manipulating whatever footage they have is frustrating. Makes Molly seem very young, which she is…but it’s frustrating watching her not have faith in Griff after everything he’s done for her. I also have a hard time believing all his friends actually thought he would do that to Molly. Hopefully the second one will make up for this…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2024
This was not the book for me. I have not read this author before, and the blurb pulled me in. Reading like YA, and the pacing was too slow for me. The insecurities and drama pulled me out of the story. I did finish hoping I could get into it, but I never did.
I hope others who like this style give this book a try.
Thank you to Booksprout and the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
I hope others who like this style give this book a try.
Thank you to Booksprout and the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
January 26, 2024
I think my heart is broken
But I’m also hopeful that I understand what happened and that Griffin will be able to explain it to dear sweet Molly (and avoid death at the hands of Remy).
I love a brother’s best friend romance. And this one didn’t let me down at all! Remy was an amazing story driver and his little jabs at his best friend made me actually laugh out loud. He’s way more mature than the other brother in Autumn’s world who had to accept his bestie shacking up with his little sister.
Griff was the perfect protector for Molly. And how he went about protecting her even from himself was just chef’s kiss! And Molly… Molly is very young and very innocent in this book. I’m looking forward to seeing how she grows in book 2!
All I will say, trying to stay out of the spoilers, is I feel that I’ve been prepared for this ending (warning it’s a cliff hanger) for a while… and I refuse to believe that what happened actually happened. But we’ll see……..
But I’m also hopeful that I understand what happened and that Griffin will be able to explain it to dear sweet Molly (and avoid death at the hands of Remy).
I love a brother’s best friend romance. And this one didn’t let me down at all! Remy was an amazing story driver and his little jabs at his best friend made me actually laugh out loud. He’s way more mature than the other brother in Autumn’s world who had to accept his bestie shacking up with his little sister.
Griff was the perfect protector for Molly. And how he went about protecting her even from himself was just chef’s kiss! And Molly… Molly is very young and very innocent in this book. I’m looking forward to seeing how she grows in book 2!
All I will say, trying to stay out of the spoilers, is I feel that I’ve been prepared for this ending (warning it’s a cliff hanger) for a while… and I refuse to believe that what happened actually happened. But we’ll see……..
January 31, 2024
I cannot stress enough the importance of trigger warnings!!! And they weren’t included in this book…
TRIGGER WARNINGS: underage “age-gap” relationship, sexual assault (Wesley situation), hard drug abuse (Griff’s mom)
This book was a lot longer than I expected. Like long enough that it could’ve been split into two different books, especially since it ended on a cliffhanger, their story is already split. There were so many extra scenes that I felt were unnecessary and where we didn’t learn any new information from them, which made the book feel longer.
I normally don’t see a problem with age gap relationships (I actually really enjoy reading them), when both parties are of age. WHICH THEY’RE NOT IN THIS BOOK. Molly is 17 for the first third (approx.) of the book, while Griff is 22.
Why couldn’t the age gap have been of legal age? If the main point (for a third of the book) is that they can’t be together until Molly turns 18, then they did a terrible job at it; therefore I feel it unnecessary. She could’ve been already 18 and still in high school. (Still weird but at least legal)
Maybe it’s just me, but I was uncomfortable reading that section of the book. Especially the scenes where Molly was very immature and insecure (which makes sense bc she’s 17!) it just reminds us how young Molly truly is. “The legal age of consent is 17 in New York!” Oh stfu
I think if I was prepared for possible triggers, I would have enjoyed the book more. I didn’t hate it. The writing wasn’t bad at all but I have to draw the line at the underage FMC. I’m actually surprised no one else is talking about this.
Not sure if I will continue reading Griff and Molly’s story in the next installment.
TRIGGER WARNINGS: underage “age-gap” relationship, sexual assault (Wesley situation), hard drug abuse (Griff’s mom)
This book was a lot longer than I expected. Like long enough that it could’ve been split into two different books, especially since it ended on a cliffhanger, their story is already split. There were so many extra scenes that I felt were unnecessary and where we didn’t learn any new information from them, which made the book feel longer.
I normally don’t see a problem with age gap relationships (I actually really enjoy reading them), when both parties are of age. WHICH THEY’RE NOT IN THIS BOOK. Molly is 17 for the first third (approx.) of the book, while Griff is 22.
Why couldn’t the age gap have been of legal age? If the main point (for a third of the book) is that they can’t be together until Molly turns 18, then they did a terrible job at it; therefore I feel it unnecessary. She could’ve been already 18 and still in high school. (Still weird but at least legal)
Maybe it’s just me, but I was uncomfortable reading that section of the book. Especially the scenes where Molly was very immature and insecure (which makes sense bc she’s 17!) it just reminds us how young Molly truly is. “The legal age of consent is 17 in New York!” Oh stfu
I think if I was prepared for possible triggers, I would have enjoyed the book more. I didn’t hate it. The writing wasn’t bad at all but I have to draw the line at the underage FMC. I’m actually surprised no one else is talking about this.
Not sure if I will continue reading Griff and Molly’s story in the next installment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2024
Thank you Autumn Jones Lake for the advance copy. I also purchased my own Ebook copy to support.
Fighting the Forbidden…...was not my favorite.
What I Enjoyed: This book is a typical AJL novel which I find comforting. It did not feel much different than her LOKI series with her manly men looking out for their love interests. I love the LOKI series.
What I Did Not Enjoy: Maybe it’s bc I’m an elder millennial but I found the immaturity of Molly to be unbearable. As an 18 year old, the immaturity level was 100% believable though because AJL is a great writer.
I also hated the cliffhanger…not because it is an actual cliffhanger. I’m a pro-cliffhanger reader. I hated it because of the disloyalty of Molly and Remy. Nah, bro. It doesn’t work like that…not for someone you have known for YEARS. If I’m Griff, I’m equally pissed and I hope he shows it in the next book.
Fighting the Forbidden…...was not my favorite.
What I Enjoyed: This book is a typical AJL novel which I find comforting. It did not feel much different than her LOKI series with her manly men looking out for their love interests. I love the LOKI series.
What I Did Not Enjoy: Maybe it’s bc I’m an elder millennial but I found the immaturity of Molly to be unbearable. As an 18 year old, the immaturity level was 100% believable though because AJL is a great writer.
I also hated the cliffhanger…not because it is an actual cliffhanger. I’m a pro-cliffhanger reader. I hated it because of the disloyalty of Molly and Remy. Nah, bro. It doesn’t work like that…not for someone you have known for YEARS. If I’m Griff, I’m equally pissed and I hope he shows it in the next book.
February 1, 2024
I love everything Autumn writes, and I did with Griff and Molly's story to. UNTIL the end, did I just read over 500 page for a Cliffhanger? And l'm sad to say if Molly belives that Griff would do that to her then she don't deserve him, same goes for Remy and the rest of his friends. Poor Griff, he does EVERTHING for Molly and she don't even trust him and know him better. She really is a naive 18 year old little girl.
I'm so, so disappointed and pi**ed of!!
I'm so, so disappointed and pi**ed of!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2024
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book. I haven't read alot from this author, but I'm always a sucker for a best friend's little sister trope.
Griff and Molly are easy to connect with, and things went the way I expected. What I didn't expect was the cliffhanger ending, so we'll see.
I enjoyed my read and will probably read the next one! 😉
Griff and Molly are easy to connect with, and things went the way I expected. What I didn't expect was the cliffhanger ending, so we'll see.
I enjoyed my read and will probably read the next one! 😉
January 23, 2024
This is a brand-new series from one of my favorite authors. While it is a spinoff of the Lost King series, you can enjoy this book without reading the other series.
Fighting the Forbidden is a very different vibe from the author's usual books and it was a nice departure. It reminded me of a New Adult romance, more on the sweeter side and very dramatic. While not a fan of the drama it made sense in the book given the age of the characters (18-early 20s).
I love a good friends-to-lover romance and Molly and Griff was a fun one. They are childhood friends who fell in love over time and they finally get together but staying together proves to be harder than they thought. Given how young they are, they have their fair share of insecurities and miscommunications, and given how this book ended they will have a lot to overcome to find their way to HEA.
I loved Griff in this book. He is just the sweetest and just an all-around good guy. He's not perfect and makes mistakes due to his insecurities. He and Molly do have great chemistry, but they both of a lot of growing and maturing they need to do in the next book.
Remy (Molly's brother & Griff's Best Friend) was a nice surprise in this book and enjoyed him and he showed complexity I wasn't expecting from him. I did expect him and Molly to trust Griff a little more at the end as they have known him their whole life, so hopefully they make up for it in the next book.
If you can't tell, the book does end on a cliffhanger and causes into question Griff's commitment to Molly, and let's just say Molly has her own Carrie Underwood moment, but you only have to wait a few months for the next book to come out.
Fighting the Forbidden is a very different vibe from the author's usual books and it was a nice departure. It reminded me of a New Adult romance, more on the sweeter side and very dramatic. While not a fan of the drama it made sense in the book given the age of the characters (18-early 20s).
I love a good friends-to-lover romance and Molly and Griff was a fun one. They are childhood friends who fell in love over time and they finally get together but staying together proves to be harder than they thought. Given how young they are, they have their fair share of insecurities and miscommunications, and given how this book ended they will have a lot to overcome to find their way to HEA.
I loved Griff in this book. He is just the sweetest and just an all-around good guy. He's not perfect and makes mistakes due to his insecurities. He and Molly do have great chemistry, but they both of a lot of growing and maturing they need to do in the next book.
Remy (Molly's brother & Griff's Best Friend) was a nice surprise in this book and enjoyed him and he showed complexity I wasn't expecting from him. I did expect him and Molly to trust Griff a little more at the end as they have known him their whole life, so hopefully they make up for it in the next book.
If you can't tell, the book does end on a cliffhanger and causes into question Griff's commitment to Molly, and let's just say Molly has her own Carrie Underwood moment, but you only have to wait a few months for the next book to come out.
January 31, 2024
This book was 3.5 ⭐️ for me and 1 🌶️
It started off as a very cute slowish burn and I understand the reasoning behind that or at least thought I did because it seemed the MMC was so inlove and really wanted to make sure before advancing on with the FMC. I didn't care for the whole reality show need for this book and the ending really painted the MMC in bad light. I will admit I'm not a reality show fan irl so that may be part of my issue but that just seemed very off course for Griff and then the ending had me pissed because I didn't realize this was a duet and therefore it ends on a huge fucking cliffhanger that broke my heart.
Also I hated Hayden she didn't seem to actually care about any of her friends so I really hope she and Remi don't get a book.
Although I don't even know if I will read part 2 of this when it comes out because that was so drawn out to end like that. 😫😫
It started off as a very cute slowish burn and I understand the reasoning behind that or at least thought I did because it seemed the MMC was so inlove and really wanted to make sure before advancing on with the FMC. I didn't care for the whole reality show need for this book and the ending really painted the MMC in bad light. I will admit I'm not a reality show fan irl so that may be part of my issue but that just seemed very off course for Griff and then the ending had me pissed because I didn't realize this was a duet and therefore it ends on a huge fucking cliffhanger that broke my heart.
Also I hated Hayden she didn't seem to actually care about any of her friends so I really hope she and Remi don't get a book.
Although I don't even know if I will read part 2 of this when it comes out because that was so drawn out to end like that. 😫😫
February 11, 2024
Fighting the Forbidden by Autumn Jones Lake is the First book in the Ruthless & Royal Series. This starts the story of Griff and Molly. Molly is Remy's sister and Griff is his best friend who all sort of grew up together. But now Griff and Molly are starting to feel something more. This book does end with a cliffhanger.
January 28, 2024
Gut wrenching, keeps you on your toes
Amazing book again. It was so nice to read about Molly and Griff finally. To see what they have been through and going through is something else. It's like your right there with them. You will not want to put the book down. It's sad happy and wows you so much. Can't wait for the next one.
Amazing book again. It was so nice to read about Molly and Griff finally. To see what they have been through and going through is something else. It's like your right there with them. You will not want to put the book down. It's sad happy and wows you so much. Can't wait for the next one.
March 3, 2024
I DIDN'T KNOW THIS WASN'T A STANDALONE AND NOW BOOK 2 IS OUT IN APRIL?!? PAAAAIN!!!
(yes i saw the series name but idk why I assumed it would be companion books/series)
I'm in pain i can't wait :(
This book follows Griff and Molly. Griff is Molly's older brother's best friend whom she has always had a crush on, but never did anything about it because she assumed that Griff just saw her as a little sister as well... Griff did not. Griff has slowly been working on himself to be worthy of Molly despite all the hardships that he has endured. We follow them along as they discover these feelings for each other and the adventure that it brings along.
I really loved Griff and Molly!!
Watching Griff want to be the best man he could be for Molly was so heartwarming. I really enjoyed watching Molly get the love she deserved. The way that Griff was so protective of Molly was amazing!! I loved them together. And then the ending came!!!
I cannot wait for book 2 because what was that ending?! I have no clue what to believe, but I cannot wait to see how their story continues.
(yes i saw the series name but idk why I assumed it would be companion books/series)
I'm in pain i can't wait :(
This book follows Griff and Molly. Griff is Molly's older brother's best friend whom she has always had a crush on, but never did anything about it because she assumed that Griff just saw her as a little sister as well... Griff did not. Griff has slowly been working on himself to be worthy of Molly despite all the hardships that he has endured. We follow them along as they discover these feelings for each other and the adventure that it brings along.
I really loved Griff and Molly!!
Watching Griff want to be the best man he could be for Molly was so heartwarming. I really enjoyed watching Molly get the love she deserved. The way that Griff was so protective of Molly was amazing!! I loved them together. And then the ending came!!!
I cannot wait for book 2 because what was that ending?! I have no clue what to believe, but I cannot wait to see how their story continues.
January 31, 2024
Wait whatttt?!? Talk about a cliffhanger 😱
First off, I just wanna say I AM HERE for books that have spice within the first couple of chapters because it’s bound to be a good one!!
Griff wants what Griff wants and ain’t nothing getting in his way. The way I was screaming at a fictional character JUST SPILL THE TEA was borderline insane, I’m all for a good brothers best friend story but nothing worse than the secret dragging for the entire book, and this was just perfect. Autumn smashed it out of the park and when I tell you I need the next book now, I mean RIGHT NOW 😂😂
🔥Brothers best friend
🥵Street fighters
🔥First love
🥵Chosen family
🔥Small town
First off, I just wanna say I AM HERE for books that have spice within the first couple of chapters because it’s bound to be a good one!!
Griff wants what Griff wants and ain’t nothing getting in his way. The way I was screaming at a fictional character JUST SPILL THE TEA was borderline insane, I’m all for a good brothers best friend story but nothing worse than the secret dragging for the entire book, and this was just perfect. Autumn smashed it out of the park and when I tell you I need the next book now, I mean RIGHT NOW 😂😂
🔥Brothers best friend
🥵Street fighters
🔥First love
🥵Chosen family
🔥Small town
May 7, 2024
Grrr... I loved Griff. I liked Molly. I love them as a couple and love everything they have shared so far. I do not like that this book ended on a cliffhanger. I do not like that I need to wait to see if my thoughts are right. I also didn't like Molly's end emotions. I think they all should have talked about it and realized the truth. It irritates me how people blast innocent people they don't know because of reality tv drama that is so fake. I need Griff's truths. I need the roller coaster I know book two will be. Will I be patient for these answers and their HEA? Yes. Am I still irritated with this cliffhanger? Yes!! Praying book two starts where we left off.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*
February 4, 2024
So disappointed with the ending after waiting years for Molly and Griffs story
Potential spoilers: AJL is hands down my favorite author and I have loved most of her books. She has quite a few books with cliff hangers, which I am normally fine with. However, I despise story lines that include cheating or even the illusion of cheating. In fact it is one of the only plot lines to make me stop reading a book and not finish. The ending of this book is so disappointing even though I am sure that Griff did not cheat and it will be explained it still leaves me with a sick feeling. I truly hope cheating is not used as a plot twist or cliff hanger in any future novels by AJL.
Potential spoilers: AJL is hands down my favorite author and I have loved most of her books. She has quite a few books with cliff hangers, which I am normally fine with. However, I despise story lines that include cheating or even the illusion of cheating. In fact it is one of the only plot lines to make me stop reading a book and not finish. The ending of this book is so disappointing even though I am sure that Griff did not cheat and it will be explained it still leaves me with a sick feeling. I truly hope cheating is not used as a plot twist or cliff hanger in any future novels by AJL.
March 5, 2024
One of my favorite tropes is best friends little sister. Also age gap. However, I do not like when any character is naïve. Or too innocent in the world we live in you’d have to be living under a rock. So that kind of annoyed me a bit with this book. I also did not know that this was going to end on a cliffhanger. Otherwise I would not have picked it up. Also the most basic cliffhanger. So it’s debatable whether or not I will pick up the second book just to finish the story, but I will most likely forget this one by the time the next one comes out. I don’t think it was bad. There were some aspects I did like but I also just didn’t get that into it.
April 1, 2024
This book was not for me unfortunately! The female was too young for me to want to read about. After reading all the other books in the series I was pretty disappointed with how this one turned out. Whole story was just a constant reminder of how young she was.
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