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Ricky Ruiz—ruthless kingpin, reclusive heir, the one man I can’t seem to outrun.

Rumors buzz when a pic of me buying a pregnancy test goes viral. This wouldn’t be such a big deal if, roughly one month ago, I wasn’t also spotted with the new top-dog of Cypress Pointe’s most notorious crime family.

The same crime family my father dedicated his entire law enforcement career trying to bring to their knees.

Ricky inherited the money, the houses, the cars, but he also inherited the danger. He sleeps with one eye open and one finger on the trigger. So, when my name starts popping up alongside his on social media, the beast awakens, convinced there’s now a target on my back, too.

He’s not big on patience or subtlety, which I realize when I come home to find him waiting in a dark corner of my apartment, in no mood for a debate. He’s on a mission to collect what he believes is his.

Me.

My father warned me about the Ruiz family. If I’d listened, I might not be locked in a room inside Ricky’s home, I’d still have the job he decided to quit for me, and I’d still have my freedom.

I have no plans to be Ricky’s caged bird. Not even with an army of street soldiers at his disposal. He’d beg to differ. According to him, it’s just a matter of time before I give in and admit what he claims to have known from the beginning.

That I’m already his.
*
Trigger Warning: Ricky lives up to his reputation, so if you’re sensitive to excessive, explicit violence, you might want to pass this one up. There are also situations that may be triggering for those who have experienced pregnancy-related trauma. Reader discretion is advised.
*
SEXY BEAST is a full-length standalone novel (95k+ words). This book can absolutely be read on its own, but for the sake of flow and clarity, you could start with THE GOLDEN BOYS (a bully romance trilogy within this series).

Are you into hot romances with alpha-male crime bosses? Then, you’ll love getting to know Ricky Ruiz.
Due to adult themes and sexual situations, this one’s only for the 18+ crowd.

330 pages, Hardcover

Published November 25, 2023

978 people are currently reading
3168 people want to read

About the author

Rachel Jonas

41 books1,428 followers

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5 stars
1,370 (44%)
4 stars
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3 stars
548 (17%)
2 stars
162 (5%)
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29 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 284 reviews
Profile Image for ellie.
354 reviews3,727 followers
dnf
May 28, 2022
Ricky Ruiz is possibly the sexiest fictional character that i have ever read and i can’t even finish his book🧍he deserved better than Dez who’s so bland, boring and painfully dull.

i reject this book with my full chest and im pretending that he and Blue got back together, being the hot sexy criminal Bonnie and Clyde duo they are💅🏻

i buddy-read this (or more like buddy-dnfed) this with Lara and we had actual tears in our eyes while reading that Pandora reveal, what the fuck. to avoid spoilers, it made as much sense as this iconic “plot twist”:

description


i truly don’t have any other thoughts, my head is empty bcos this was so vapid, boring and bland af with no connection between Ricky and Dez. they made zero sense as a couple. i feel like Dez as a character was just unnecessary to this whole series, she was thrown in last minute with zero depth to her. god, even Ricky and Jules would have been better. they would have served, honestly. literally anyone but Dez💀
Profile Image for Bookiemonster.
367 reviews174 followers
June 11, 2022
WE 👏 FINALLY 👏 FOUND 👏 OUT 👏 WHO 👏 PANDORA 👏 IS 👏
And honestly? It was low-key disappointing.
The only reason this book is getting 3 stars is because of how invested I was in finding out who Pandora was and how much I have liked books 1-5, because I am absolutely heartbroken that Ricky's books was this boring and drawn out.
It was utter torture trying to read this, and at maybe 10-15 pages in, I found myself skimming.
At 60 pages in, I started skipping pages. I think the only 2 scenes I read with either none or minimal skimming was when OUR GIRL BLUE GOT ENGAGED and when we found out who Pandora was. Apart from that? Everything was soooooo dull. There was no reason for this book to be almost 400 pages. None whatsoever. I EVEN SKIPPED THE SEX SCENES.
Regardless, big shout out for the author duo, because while this book was complete and utter shit, all the other ones were good and you did have me on the edge of my seat about Pandora (even though it felt like her identity was not planned properly and she may have just accidentally become a good (kinda) main character as a result of our reaction to her in the first few books).
Ciao
Profile Image for ↬ Ⓛ.
378 reviews707 followers
March 17, 2025
daddy Ricky at his finest! “But there should never be a question about who or what my priority is. Moving forward, my one and only concern is you and this baby. My family.”

i needed to approve of the baby mama Dez to see wassup if shes a fit for my thug aka gangsta ricky since the heroine managed to trape ahem i mean tame my sexy beast before i did.



noooo. it was supposed to be our baby, Ricky.. congrats I guess.
Profile Image for Van nee.
311 reviews21 followers
June 6, 2022
This is Ricky and Dez's story. Ricky has taken over most of the family business and is attempting to clean up his town when he hooks up with Dez. Dez is seeking revenge for her father's death and was looking for information at Ricky's party when they hook up. Ricky magically falls for her charms and she gets pregnant on their first round despite the fact that Dez has a medical condition that makes it impossible for her to get pregnant. When Ricky finds out, he moves Dez in and they automatically begin a relationship that turns full fledged. The story pretty much becomes predictable.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Laura Lee.
Author 29 books1,857 followers
May 16, 2022
I’ve been half in love with Ricky since we were first introduced to the Kings of Cypress Pointe, and Sexy Beast did not disappoint. Ricky and Dez’s story was everything I wanted it to be and more. I loved seeing the entire crew grow throughout this series and I couldn’t think of a better way to end it. Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Mandyloves2read.
1,774 reviews175 followers
May 21, 2022
This book was everything I anticipated it would be! Although I’m sad this is the last book in this series I’m super satisfied with how it ended I feel like we got a lot of closure and answers we were waiting for. I love Ricky his loyalty his love for Dez he was absolutely swoon worthy their story is sweet emotional and super hot but also violent and bloody we see both sides to Ricky and let me tell you don’t mess with his family or those he loves because you will regret it! I really enjoyed this story it was exciting the writing was excellent it drew me in from beginning till end I love this crew so much and I can’t wait to see what else this author has in store for us!
Profile Image for TINA | DejaLu✨.
737 reviews12 followers
May 29, 2022
#SexyBeast was PERFECTION!
➡️Y'all aren't ready for Daddy Ricky
➡️ I wasn't a Dez fan going in ... but I LOVED HER!
➡️ Not going to lie, I got a little emotional!
➡️ THE ENDING!

We are back in Cypress Pointe, Ricky has returned from 'hiding' and Pandora has spilled the gossip about the trip Dez made to buy a pregnancy test. No secret is sacred in Cypress Pointe, after all. Ricky has come to find out the truth, and once he does nothing will stand in his way to protect is his.

It's no secret that I've been a big fan of this series since The Golden Boys (Book 1) came out. The entire series has left you with so many unanswered questions that just kept you coming back for more! It's a dark bully romance, with so many hookups, mystery, intrigue and dirty talking! Strong female characters, alpha boys...all up my alley.

So let me tell you. I was not prepared for Ricky Ruiz! I mean, he's been in the other books, we all know who he is, we all know he is loyal, we all know he protects his family. But THIS RICKY? This Ricky was all of this and more. So much more than what I expected. And Dez. I have to be honest. Dez was brought into the story and I wasn't a huge fan. But I loved her for Ricky! To me this book was different than the others. It felt like some closure, it felt like new beginnings. The whole "feel" of the book was different. Not so much angsty, much more "protection." I loved it... absolutely loved it. The book is a stand-alone but I highly HIGHLY recommend reading the others first.
33 reviews
May 16, 2022
Prior to this book, I never fully understood Blue's attachment and loyalty to Ricky. I get it now, Rachael Jonas & Nikki Thorne! Damn, this man is the whole package and enough of it the reader (like Dez) is willing to overlook the grey area of life he inhabits. I really appreciated Dez was a heroine that not only was strong to begin with but adaptable along the way and like Ricky, did what she needed to. It was lovely to read the evolution of the relationships within the crew as well. Now to go binge it again, I loved it so much.

Surprise Pandora Reveal! Did NOT see that coming!
Profile Image for Abstract ♥ Books.
1,281 reviews1,770 followers
May 26, 2022



ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS

line

Star Rating : 4/5 Stars

POV : Dual

Cliffhanger : None

Hero : Ricky

Heroine : Dez

Pace of the story : Moderate

Angst Rating : 5/10

Heat Rating : 5/10

Overall Opinion :
Another book in this series is with me!! I have been addicted to this series ever since I got a glimpse of Blue and The golden boys. Ricky was amazing as a side character, so now seeing him as the main one was one of the most anticipated moments for me.

This one is a one night stand pregnancy romance with a mafia edge. Ricky was a dark hero who had to adapt to a life filled with violence. But that was not him. He never had any problem being the dangerous one though. When he got to know that he made Dez pregnant, the only thing on his mind was getting her to be his. He had a lot of enemies and the last thing he wanted was for one of them to get them both.

The last thing dex wanted was to be a prisoner of Ricky. He didn't have a good reputation and his dangerous life scared her. He was too much to accept, if only he didn't make her feel something. Resisting the man who drove her crazy might be one of the most challenging tasks for her.

Definitely recommending this one to all the dark romance loving people out there! Ricky is crazy and this book was definitely a tad bit darker than the rest, but I loved it all the same. I hope we get more from these characters in the future.

My-Post-3 Website | Bookstagram | Facebook Page | Newsletter
Profile Image for Aplis.
582 reviews51 followers
May 25, 2022
View post on imgur.com


Accurate representation of me looking for the chemistry between #SeXyBeAsT and #BrokenBeauty

I appreciate my man Ricky for being a fucking sweetheart and for stepping up. But this just felt like one of those mafia romances where the leads got together because of something that happened and despite having no particular sexual chemistry, they decided to stick together. My hunk Ricky deserved more than boring ass Dez!

What was interesting? The Pandora reveal!
Profile Image for The Romantic Rush Blog.
2,661 reviews965 followers
May 25, 2022
Enjoyed Ricky quite a bit- though at first I wasn't quire sure I wanted/needed his book. In truth, it does feel a bit out of place in the series (trope wise, we've got a casual murderer vs. high school drama and college cuteness in the others), and verging outside of the brothers too. Might have considered this more of a spin off potentially just to establish it's own tone, but still enjoyed him as our hero. Dez felt a bit flat to me as a character, at times feeling like a secondary character to Ricky who was very much disproportionately the character focus. But, I loved being with the crew, even if the Pandora reveal felt a bit less climatic than I anticipated.
Profile Image for christine .
262 reviews15 followers
May 13, 2022
Wow. What a why to end a series. I always loved Ricky from book one. He is everything that you need and wanted in a guy. Ricky is very protective of his family and friends. The thing he does for the people he love is kinda of crazy but cant help to like it. Dez is so strong you cant help to not like and cheer her on. She had that love/hate going on. You cant help to cheer them on. Ofcourse the ending is mind blowing and a prefect ending
Profile Image for Ode to my book boyfriends.
530 reviews
May 12, 2022
The Cypress Pointe series is one of my absolute favorites to date, I have literally devoured it! I've got to admit, I wasn't sold on Ricky, but...DAMN...I sure am now! I am so here for Dez & Ricky's story. This book sucked me from the first page, as per the usual.

You could feel Ricky's badassery coming off the pages don't don't get me started on their chemistry. GAH...so good!!

Okay...let me get to the point (spoiler free). You definitely want to read books 1-5 in this series before diving into this one because we get to see all our favorite characters (and some of our hated characters) again, plus you'll want the back story.

Dez is still on the hunt to find out who murdered her father and she doesn't care who she burns along the way. Ricky has returned to CP to take over the family business after his uncle was murdered the same night as Dez's father. Family is everything to both of them (even if Ricky's uncle is the worst). They're both searching for answers and they end up having a one-night stand (or so we thought).

Ricky is a ruthless mafia leader, he has no problem getting his hands dirty...“My life’s complicated. I’ll be the first to admit it. And it takes a strong woman to stand beside me, accept that my hands will never be clean, and that there will always be a next time when someone’s blood will be on them. And I know it’s hard to understand, but there will never be a time I can just… walk away.”

Being a cop's daughter, Ricky's way of life take a while for Dez to understand, but she gets there. "Wherever Ricky is, that’s home. Despite once being willing to burn his world to the ground for answers, despite once thinking he was expendable for my cause, I now own my truth. That no matter who he is, no matter what he’s done, I don’t really give a shit. Because I don’t want to be without him."

I love their journey to each other. How fiercely they love each other. This book answers a ton of questions we've been wondering about and ties it all up in a perfect bow! There is mystery, murder, suspense, grief, loss, family, friendship and love. I'm here for all of it! AND....Pandora!!! Girl...you got me with that one, surprise!

I'd also like to add that I LOVE that there wasn't a huge conflict that tore them apart, after everything they've both been through it makes sense that they communicate and weather the storms together. I also appreciate that the story continued after those storms passed so we got to be part of this amazing ride a little bit longer. Loved this series so much!

#BrokenBeauty
#SeXyBeAsT
#BeautyAndTheBeast

Just a few of my favorite spoiler free quotes:
He’s young, yeah, but he’s got this presence about him that screams… ‘I’m young, but I fuck like I’ve been practicing for centuries’.

There, with her chin resting on the knee of a man she’s never met, is my dog. The same dog I thought was a man-hating, vicious protector. But as the intruder sits comfortably in the armchair in the corner, stroking her head with his tatted knuckles, she’s somehow turned into a puddle of mush at his touch. I mean, the traitor’s even dozing off on him like she’s found her soulmate.

I never would’ve believed a day would come that I’d trust this man, and now, I can’t imagine having to face this on my own, or with anyone else for that matter. In such a short span of time, Ricky Ruiz has proven me wrong on so many things. But topping that list, he’s proven to be exactly who and what I need. A man with integrity to spare. A man of his word.
Profile Image for Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer).
966 reviews82 followers
May 19, 2022
“We’re polar opposites, from two different sides of the track, but at the end of the day, we have the one thing that ensures we can work through any of the fucked up things this city or our lives can throw at us.
Love.”



Incredibly written, Sexy Beast the sixth book in Kings of Cypress Pointe series was another amazing read from Rachel Jonas and Nikki Thorne.
Bringing together two complete opposites like Dezireè ‘Dez’ Roby aka #BrokenBeauty the daughter of a detective and Ricky Ruiz aka #SeXyBeAst the new leader of his families notorious business. Plus the added bonus of Surprise Pregnancy trope, it led to you being taken on a wild, crazy and intense rollercoaster ride.


From the get go Rachel Jonas and Nikki Thorne had you diving headfirst into Dez and Ricky’s story, especially given the explosion that occurred quite quickly on which led to falling down the rabbit hole that was their story.
The components that made up the story gave you a narrative that had it all, resulting in a story that was non-stop GO, GO, GO! For that it had me lured me in and kept me gripped on all throughout in this one sitting read!
This rollercoaster ride was jam-packed with ups and downs, twists and turns and loops and whirls. All indicating to the drama, angst, suspense, mystery and thrilling action that took place all throughout.
Safe to say Rachel and Nikki never allowed one dull moment within, causing you to continuously read straight through this amazing, real page turner that was Sexy Beast!

The adventure of Dez and Ricky and the relationship they shared, plus everything else that was going on in their lives made for moments that were filled with intense tension at times. Ultimately leading to some super emotionally charged times to take place, given the emotions and feelings that bled off the pages.
But that was a given since the back and forth that was Dez and Ricky’s relationship led to a few times of head butting between the two. Yet it wasn’t surprising seeing as they were both strong-willed with headstrong personalities. Not willing to give into the other so easily.
As the story progressed, the development within their relationship led to not only their growth as a person, but seeing two completely opposites sides to each of them. Which was a surprise, knowing just how much of a major growth they had gone through from the beginning to who they turned into as the narrative advanced forward.
Rachel and Nikki truly did a great job in showcasing the blossoming relationship between Dez and Ricky, giving us a deeper in depth look through their dual perspective as the story went on.
Having us understand exactly what they were thinking, feeling and dealing with, given their thoughts that were made known to us.
It should be known Ricky had me swooning for him, not only for how he treated Dez and was there for her during her pregnancy. But with being a Strong, Sexy, Badass, Alpha Male what was there not to love and swoon about. Especially in the moments where he showed affection and love towards to Dez. My heart was definitely racing hard for him!
Daddy Sexy Beast will have you falling for him in the snap of his fingers, cause lawd knows he had me falling!

If you have been reading Kings of Cypress Pointe series from the beginning then you may have all been wondering Pandora’s identity. Well rest assure you will finally get your answer in this book.
So after the revelation was made, it had me unsure of how to feel. Maybe because it didn’t feel super shocking to me IMO.
However that’s not to say it wasn’t surprising because it was given who they turned out to be. It was definitely unexpected to say the least.
Random but for some reason upon the revelation, it had me thinking back to Gossip Girl and when the identity was revealed. Not because it was similar or connected to Pandora.
But just because…

Rachel Jonas and Nikki Thorne absolutely killed it with Dez and Ricky's story!
Sexy Beast was everything and more, and not just because it included my favourite trope Surprise Pregnancy.
Devouring this story like no other it was just that, an all consuming, endless free falling, entertaining book with so much depth brought to the forefront. Automatically making it a 5 ⭐️ Read!
Safe to say Rachel and Nikki will have me waiting in anticipation for what they will write next.



*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
363 reviews5 followers
May 13, 2022
With each book that takes place in Cypress Pointe it just confirms for me that this is one of my favorite series. I absolutely love every member of the Golden Crew and how they have formed their own little family with each other over the course of these books.

So when you first think of these two being together it might not make sense, I mean the detectives daughter who stands on the "right" side of the law and the resident bad boy who took over the family business that is most definitely on the wrong side, these two don't really seem to fit on paper right. Well everything you might have thought about them two just throw it out the window cause they show you that they do in fact belong together.

I loved every second of Ricky and Dez, from the "fateful" meeting at the club, to Ricky "strongly" urging her to move in with him, and all the cute pregnancy related moments, there was just so much love between them that was very easy to see. One of the big things that I loved with these two was that after Dez got over "Ricky is a bad guy who more or less kidnapped me" that these two didn't try to deny their feelings for the other but instead actually owned up to them and then did everything they could to be together.

Another major thing I loved what just Ricky in general. He was so adorable with how he treated Dez and that he would do anything to make sure that his little family would be safe even if the decisions he made might not have been the most lawful thing to do. (sidenote: I really loved how Rachel didn't shy away from the "bad" things that come with Ricky's "job" as the head of his family and instead embraced that side of him that needed the bloodshed at times to protect his loved ones) Also the fact that Ricky was the first out of all the guys to be a dad is just funny to me but he took that job very seriously and I loved how much he loved the baby and how involved he was from the second he found out about them.

On the other hand we have Dez, who I just adored. I really did like how in this one we got to actually get to know her, mostly because while she was there in the crew she wasn't "there" as much as the rest were since the beginning. I also liked how real she was in the fact that her grief for losing her father wasn't pushed aside or even "got over" but instead was as much apart of her as it would be to anyone who has lost a parent would feel.

I don't really feel like I had many complaints about this, not that i'm saying there weren't things I didn't like cause there were a few things. My main one was Clark, I did like the idea of his character and that he was a mentor for Dez, however I didn't like how he acted reguarding Dez's relationship with Ricky. I did understand that he cared for Dez and only wanted the best for her however instead of listening to her when she said she was happy he kinda just wanted her to go along with what he wanted for her to a point and that he kinda felt like more of an obsessed ex-boyfriend at certain times instead of a partner/mentor that he was.

Another thing that I was a little disappointed in was the reveal of who Pandora is. I'm a little on the fence if I liked that it was at the end we learned who was the woman behind to curtain or if I wished we learned who she was when Ricky did. Beyond when we learned who she is, I'm a little surprised that she was who she was and the reasoning behind why she did it, I kinda wanted more from them and maybe for them to be someone else instead of who kinda felt like a throw-a-way character we meet in one of the books and then never really saw them again after that. I do kinda wanna go back through and re-read the books and see if there are any clues that could point to who Pandora is now that I know who the mystery person is.

A couple additional favorite things about this book, the restaurant scene (when you read it, you'll know and it was the most perfect way to have that scene), Hunter (who I hope we see more of soon) & the bromance between Ricky and West (it was so cute and I loved just seeing them interacting with each other, especially if you remember how they were when they first interacted with each other). (random little sidenote: I loved that Dez's dogs name was Uno, that's what I named my cat growing up so it was fun being reminded of her everytime Uno popped up)

Overall, I loved this book so much. Being able to see the evolution of the Golden Crew from the very beginning until now with all the fun twists and turns we've been on along with them has been such a fun and loving adventure. I know that this isn't the last we've seen of these guys yet and I really can't wait to see what the next chapter at Cypress Pointe takes us.
Profile Image for Christy Davisson.
777 reviews18 followers
May 18, 2022
If you loved to watch gossip girl (the OG version) and Veronica Mars, then you will absolutely love this book.

It's like those two shows mixed together and you have this amazing series. #sexybeast lived up to his name in this book and then some. I know the author has made it known there is sensitive material in this book so make sure you check TW.

These characters have all grown in each book but this one has shown the growth and depth of each of them as a whole. This story gives you all the feels. I loved the mafia vibe of Ricky's new life and the detective side of Dez.

These two had a very up and down relationship at first but the more they opened up to one another made them crave this new adventure their lives were about to become.

Both Dez and Ricky show their softer sides and you see how well they actually fit together. Expect a few twists before you get an epic conclusion to the series! The author did a fabulous job wrapping it all up and giving you a truly satisfying ending.

I absolutely enjoyed this whole series and to have it end on Ricky's story was perfect. I loved his character from the first time we meet him. He was always looked at as the bad boy, the villain, or the cold hearted monster, but that wasn't always the truth of the matter. You finally get to see Ricky and how he justified his actions from the past and to the now. This story has intense moments mixed with all those spicy goodness you love but overall is an amazing love story between two unlikely people. It's a definite must read.

I voluntarily signed up for an ARC to give an honest review with nothing to gain. I loved this story and how it all ends. If you are looking for something that gives you all the feels and ends perfectly then make sure you grab this book. As much as I loved this book it's bittersweet knowing it ends here. I've loved each journey these characters have taken me on so it's sad to say goodbye but I will definitely reread them again.
Profile Image for Made Me Blush Books.
230 reviews12 followers
May 22, 2022
Spicy and Full of Love

Ricky Ruiz aka Sexy Beast is no longer the young thug who ran the streets of Southside learning the ropes of his family business. With the sudden death of his uncle, he’s leading the family the only way he knows how. His way. He’s ruthless, unapologetic and above all else, devoted to securing the safety of his family. When the anonymous online gossip monger Pandora posts pics of his unforgettable one-night stand buying pregnancy tests, there is no way he’s letting her get away.

Investigating the Ruiz family for any connections to her father’s death led her to Ricky which led to a moment of extreme satisfaction and undeniably questionable behavior. Dez had been feeling lost after her father’s death. She had friends but she seemed rootless and now she was pregnant but apparently not alone. What would her police detective father have to say about her having a child with a man whose family he spent his life trying to take down?

Sexy Beast lives up to his name and worth the wait. Ricky Ruiz is a man to fear, love and covet. The depth of his love for Dez had me breathless at times. And her love for him was pure enough to accept the circumstances of life with him because she saw through to the man underneath the tattoos and criminal behaviour.

These two are an unlikely match except when they were both in exactly the right place, at the exactly right time. They’re what the other needed. Everything led them to each other and it’s an epic end to this series. Those Golden triplets, their girlfriends make cameos and Pandora is still lurking around every corner reporting everyone’s business.

This is one of the most satisfying series ending books I’ve ever read. Everything comes together just right with steam, spice and feels.
Profile Image for Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance).
2,164 reviews75 followers
May 15, 2022
Step back into Cypress Pointe with #SeXyBeAsT and his Beauty. I was sad to finish this book, but it was a fantastic way to end the Kings of Cypress Pointe reign!!

Ricky is protective, loyal, a bit obsessive, with a dash of crazy, and these are all great traits for running his empire, but when Dez is confronted by him after her picture goes viral after buying a pregnancy test, she isn't enjoying some of those traits. At least not at first. Could this beauty actually fall for the beast?

Ricky is fiercely loyal to family. It's the one trait that has led him to where he is now and the current path to Dez. Living the dangerous life he leads Ricky didn't think he'd actually have the chance to become a father, so when he finds out his one night with Dez makes that impossible dream possible, he isn't about to chance letting Dez out of his sight. He lives in a dangerous world and if he could he'd wrap her in a bubble wrap until his child is born and then possibly put the both of them in it afterwards. Ricky is much more smexy god than beast, at least around Dez, but she does struggle morality wise when coming to terms with who the baby daddy is.

While their love story isn't a typical fairytale, full of champagne and roses...it's more like murder, guns, and the mafia, but everyone falls in love under different circumstances, am I right? But seriously, Ricky is such a dichotomy of a man and I loved him for it. Ruthless and a true mafia king when he needs to be, but completely opposite when he's with Dez where he's sweet and gentle which made him totally swoony. Does he play on the right side of morality...well there is always another side to every dark tale, just ask Dez.

Lastly, yes, there are cameos from past Cypress Pointe characters, of course Pandora doesn't let anyone rest, but could her days be coming to an end?? Messing with the mafia, Pandora is pushing buttons she may not want to push. I mean Ricky is no longer a kid chasing after his ex-girlfriend, but now a hot, hot baby daddy. Yum.
Profile Image for Living_in_a_book_world.
124 reviews6 followers
May 17, 2022
I have love the Kings of Cypress Point series since it came out! I never really cared for Ricky and didn't have much thought for him. This book changed my mind and put him as the top Hero in this series. I have to add that Rachel Jonas painted such a descriptive picture that I could see pretty clearly in my mind. When Ricky said "I said if you have better plans." I imagined it as he was saying raspily and then the image Rio from Good Girls came to mind. Anyways now to major points from me.


The book was a great opposites attract story. Ricky is the head of the family business and Dez is the daughter of a deceased cop. All she wants to do is find out who murdered her father and take down the Ruiz family. Dez's plan is faulty and doesn't expect the attraction between them nore repercussions of a baby. Pandora the nosy b*tch she is sees Dez buying a pregnancy test and announces it to the world. This brings Ricky barreling back into her life.

Ricky is sensitive and caring to those he loves and is ruthless towards his enemies. He does what he can to protect those he loves regardless of the consequences.

Dez is a little lost after losing her father. She seems hesitant towards Ricky at first then angry. Eventually she figures out her true feelings and fights for what she wants. The two together make an excellent couple as Ricky is their to hold her up when she needs it.

The Cypress crew still play a good role in this book also and we get to see the continuation of Blue and West's relationship. Lastly, we learn who Pabdora is! I never would have guessed it as it came out of nowhere.

If you want a Hero who does everything for the ones he loves this book is definitely it. If you've been following the whole series and want to know who Pandora is you'll finally get your answer. Throw this book to the top of your tbr list and enjoy!
Profile Image for Veronica Ticker.
901 reviews61 followers
February 12, 2023
(audiobook) As the conclusion of a series, this book wasn’t half bad. We get to see more of the previous couples. We even get the solution of the Pandora mystery. Still I wasn’t completely convinced.

The plot, full of betrayal, torture and murder, was gripping. Plus it didn’t come from nowhere, as we had some pointers in the previous books, about the Ruiz family, their deeds, and Dez’s father. It was nothing original, but Ricky’s personality and young age added a little something to the recipe.

After a one night stand with him, Dez ends up pregnant with his baby, and he takes charge when he learns the news. After that, it’s a lot of attraction and tension, but feelings enter the equation rather fast. Though I had a hard time buying it, I liked that Ricky had a lot of respect for Dez’s father, and that it played a role in their relationship. Also, Dez is far from a doormat, even when she’s basically powerless. Despite the obvious imbalance in power and influence, they are kind of equal in their relationship–Ricky asks for Dez’s opinion, and she lets him know when his actions displease her.

None of the stories in this series has been sunshine and rainbow. All the couples had a rocky start, and Cypress Pointe has been riddled with crimes and scandales. But this time, as the book focuses on Ricky Ruiz, who’s become the head of the local mafia family despite his young age, suspense becomes prominent. It’s dark, and way more violent than the previous books.

But it was also interesting to see the contrast between Ricky, the ruthless head of a crime empire, and Ricky, the attentive lover and devoted future father. And I loved how the latter justifies the former: he’ll do anything to protect the woman he loves and their future child.

The weak element of this book is the narration. Neither narrator was exactly bad, and they actually did a good job with the conversations–the characters’ energy, the various voices, the emotions. But the storytelling was a bit dull in between. As it was a rather long audio, I sometimes lost interest, to be honest.

Quickie

- Series: Kings of Cypress Pointe #6 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #new adult romance #interracial romance #romantic suspense #mafia romance #surprise pregnancy
- Triggers: murder, torture, pregnancy complications
- Main couple: Dezireé Roby & Ricky Ruiz
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 3/5
- + I liked that it was a bit darker and more violent than the other books
- – feelings came fast
Profile Image for Alyrica.
555 reviews17 followers
May 21, 2022
I was torn about reading this book. On one hand I have been in a slump and lately contemporary hasn't been my jam. On the other hand, I have enjoyed all of this author's books and maybe this one would get me out of my slump. Spoiler alert, it did!

What I Liked:
*Ricky. I liked his character in previous books but I always worry with villanous characters that they will be too villanous for me. My line for fictional baddies seems to be that they not kill innocents and that they have a code that I can understand even If I don't agree with it. This was not an issue. Ricky was just as loving, protective and loyal to those in his inner circle as he was ruthless to his enemies. He was swoon worthy with Dez with just the right amount of alpha.
*Dez. She was lovely. I really empathized with her loss and understood her mission in the beginning of the story.
*The pacing. As is typical with this author, the story flowed with the romance, steam and action timed perfectly and in balanced amounts.
*The resolution. All of my questions/concerns were answered by the end yet there was enough to make me want more from other characters introduced in the series (cough cough ..... rock band cousins ...... cough cough). Also, I adored the epilogue!

What I Didn't Like:
*I don't have any critiques or dislikes. There was even a trope that I typically avoid but really enjoyed its inclusion. No grammer mistakes or typos, either (that I noticed).

Overall, I loved both this book and the series and would highly recommend!
Profile Image for Misty (Reds Romance Reviews).
3,408 reviews6 followers
May 17, 2022
She knows she should have kept her distance from him... but Ricky Ruiz was just too tempting, and now she is paying the price. It was supposed to be one night of uninhibited fun with no complications or expectations when morning rolled around. And it was... until she had to buy a pregnancy test!

Sexy Beast is an sinfully delightful little tale that is certain to hold you captive from beginning to end! These two fiercely independent souls will wander onto the page and draw you like a moth to a flame, they have these magnetic personalities and you will have this unsatiable need to know every little dirty detail about them. Which, in my case kept me up until the wee hours of the morning satisfying my craving for all the details...and I will say it was well worth the loss of sleep! This pairing butts-heads at every turn, but with a little time and trust building you begin to see a connection and once it takes hold all bets are off. Be prepared because these two will stir up ALL. THE. FEELS!!

It was a little bittersweet knowing that this was the last chapter, but it was a story that eventually needed to be told, I just wasn't quite prepared for all it's pages held. This one really did a number on my heart, but it also brought me a lot of joy to see all our old friends too. It was such a perfect way to end the series! I highly recommend you take a chance on this series, it's wonderful characters will stick with you long after the last page is turned!!

I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Sarah (lou_reads_romance).
1,290 reviews3 followers
May 17, 2022
What a fantastic final visit with this crew….characters we have come to love and cheer for.
Ricky is a wonderful surprise, thank you for making him such a great personality…..His relationship with Dez was so lovely to read.
The best thing about this series for me is that when these couples make a commitment to each other they stick together. They have total faith in their partners and form an unbreakable bond, the ultimate team…..no silly misunderstandings, no jumping to ridiculous conclusions….
The angst and trouble comes from outside and they deal together…love that!!!
Ricky and Dez make for a perfect pairing and the addition of their surprise, bonus family makes for a really lovely read.
So great to get some closure and see the rest of the crew happy!
Looking forward to seeing who’s next from this series to get their HEA……
Profile Image for Hollyanne.
904 reviews
May 16, 2022
Sexy Beast is the 6th and final book in the Kings of Cypress Pointe series. This book is told from dual points of view by Dez and Ricky. Dez wants to know what happened in her father's death, and Ricky's gang is a part of it, so she decides to get close to him. However, something happens between them that changes their lives forever.

When Pandora outs her secret, Ricky will do whatever he has to to keep Dez safe. As Dez gets to know Ricky better she learns that he's not the bad guy she thought he was to be. She starts to have feelings for him. However what happens when their secret comes out? Pandora keeps showing up at the wrong time. Can they finally get to the bottom of who Pandora is? Can Ricky keep Dez safe? Can Dez find out what really happened to her father?

So many secrets came out in this book, and I loved every minute of it. I loved getting to know Ricky and Dez and seeing them grow with each other.
We finally get to see who Pandora is as well! I want to go back and read all the books again to see if I can find that character along with the other books now!
Profile Image for Megan.
717 reviews22 followers
May 18, 2022
4.5 Stars— So good! Such a STRONG ending to this great series.

This book starts off big, no fluffy beginning here and ends just as insane. It’s high energy which I think encapsulates the drama that these people have endured during the series.

We finally have Ricky’s story and he’s with Dez, the detective’s daughter. And with them, we’ve got a surprise pregnancy. There so many tiny details surrounding how they end up together that’s so fun to read. I don’t want to spoil anything but Rachel does a great job with the nuisance of their relationship from all angles— love isn’t easy!

Now, the big bombshell was the reveal of Pandora. The only thing I’ll say there is, I didn’t see it coming and I don’t know how I feel about it.

I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Ann Jones.
23 reviews
April 20, 2022
Hunter Review - Superb!!!

Could not get enough!!! how many times did I cry how many times can you walk away from a book cos you just can’t take anymore jeez.
I am soooo in love with Ricky #Sexybeast you gotta love a badass right? Swoon 🥰
Beautifully written this ongoing saga of the “Kings of Cypress Point” lots of shocks and surprises unraveled and there’s no easing you in with this one peeps it’ll have you on the edge of your seat and beat your heart right out of your chest so many emotions all I can say is hold on tight and enjoy the ride.
You did it again Rachel what a storyline 🙏♥️
Profile Image for Katelynn.
970 reviews30 followers
May 12, 2022
Dez is looking into the death of her father, a former cop, so she looks no further than Ricky Ruiz...latest crime boss with ties to her friends and father. Ricky always had a soft spot for the cop's daughter and finds an attraction when they cross paths at his club. After an intense night full of chemistry at his house, Dez falls pregnant unexpectedly and Ricky hits full protective mode by the news from Pandora. Together they find their lives intertwined but danger follows them along with a nosy gossip queen. Ricky is crazy protective of his woman and child. He will stop at nothing to keep them safe while Dez walks the line of what she's willing to accept when it comes to humanity. Together these two have great chemistry and a solid emotional bond that only strengthens. There's not a lot of angst in this book and they seem to try to handle any hurdles as mature as possible given their different worlds. This book is the last in this series but not they cypress point world so we may see some characters in a different but related series. We do find out Pandora's identity and get some closure. I've loved this series and this book is no different. It was such an easy read to get lost in.
Profile Image for Samantha Hickey.
1,977 reviews48 followers
May 14, 2022
I love everything Cypress Pointe!!!

Sexy Beast is a standalone in the Kings of Cypress Pointe series. Make sure to check the trigger warning.

If you haven't read this series, you really need to!! Its one of my favorites!

Sexy Beast is Dez and Rickys story, and let me just say, that title couldn't be more perfect! Dez is the daughter of a detective and Ricky is the new leader of the family business that could definitely get him arrested. Total opposites, but so freaking perfect together.

I am so in LOVE with Ricky!!! The way he loves Dez and dotes on her while she is pregnant, freaking swoon!!

Dez is an amazing character. It was awesome getting to know her more. She isnt how I thought at all, and i love her.

Ricky and West's friendship is awesome, too!! They have changed so much since they first met.

And that Pandora reveal!?!?!? I was not expecting that AT ALL!!!

I love Sexy Beast, it's an amazing addition to this series. I mever wanna leave Cypress Pointe, i love this whole cast of characters so freaking much!!

Another masterpiece 🎉🎉🎉🎉
Profile Image for Jenna  Price.
1,223 reviews
May 23, 2022
Beautifully written this ongoing saga of the “Kings of Cypress Point” lots of shocks and surprises unraveled. Soooo in love with Ricky #Sexybeast. He is everything that you need and wanted in a guy. Ricky is very protective of his family and friends. Dez is looking for answers when she starts to look into Ricky's family. After a night of bad decision she finds her self pregnant and Ricky claiming her. I absolutely love every member of the Golden Crew and how they have formed their own little family with each other over the course of these books. fantastic way to end the Kings of Cypress Pointe reign!!
Profile Image for Felicia's Review.
2,266 reviews34 followers
May 14, 2022
I been waiting for Ricky story for what seems like forever! I was so excited to get my hands on this book and it did not disappoint. Dez and Ricky are perfect for each other. Dez is looking for answers when she starts to look into Ricky's family. After a night of bad decision she finds her self pregnant and Ricky claiming her. This book wraps up EVERYTHING! and I mean everything Pandora is unmasked. I can't wait for the cousins story. But for the main crew it's hard to say goodbye.
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