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She’s a wager, a game…
I’ll pretend she’s mine, such a pretty little lie.
I’m exactly the type of guy Elena should stay away from.
Sweet, innocent women like her don’t look for relationships in motorcycle clubs. Especially one as classy and out of my league as Elena.
I can’t resist swiping right on her dating profile for fun. I never imagined we’d be a match. I know I’d only be a quick thrill for her, but I’m getting tired of the women at the clubhouse anyway.
Then my club brother Viper goes and ups the stakes: he bets me one thousand dollars that I won’t be able to have a relationship with Elena.
With my wicked smile and flirty charm, she won’t be able to resist me. And like my other hookups, I can’t let it get personal.
Until I let my guard down and she becomes my ride or die.
Which means I’ve got to make sure as hell that Elena never finds out about our bet…
I’ll pretend she’s mine, such a pretty little lie.
I’m exactly the type of guy Elena should stay away from.
Sweet, innocent women like her don’t look for relationships in motorcycle clubs. Especially one as classy and out of my league as Elena.
I can’t resist swiping right on her dating profile for fun. I never imagined we’d be a match. I know I’d only be a quick thrill for her, but I’m getting tired of the women at the clubhouse anyway.
Then my club brother Viper goes and ups the stakes: he bets me one thousand dollars that I won’t be able to have a relationship with Elena.
With my wicked smile and flirty charm, she won’t be able to resist me. And like my other hookups, I can’t let it get personal.
Until I let my guard down and she becomes my ride or die.
Which means I’ve got to make sure as hell that Elena never finds out about our bet…
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2024
About the author
Bianca Lee Ward
16 books88 followersBianca is an Australian romance author with a love of culinary adventures and a playlist for every mood. She enjoys exploring themes of identity, personal growth, and resilience in her work—with a little spice on the side. When she isn’t lost in storytelling or absorbed in her latest read, Bianca can be found watching true crime stories and documentaries.
Bianca's previous pen name was Bianca Lee.
Bianca's previous pen name was Bianca Lee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
October 30, 2024
‼️SPOILERS‼️SPOILERS‼️SPOILERS‼️
Safety Info: Pretty safe I guess. Neither are virgins. Shes been with 1 guy before. He’s in an MC so he’s been with club girls and many others. Minimal details and no sex scenes with anyone besides the h. He doesn’t touch any other women once he meets h. There is OW and OM drama but neither of them are interested.
Hero: Axle, early twenties, MC member/mechanic
Heroine: Elena, early twenties, waitress
OW Drama: Yes. He’s been having sex with a club girl who he dumps after meeting Elena. She is jealous and causes trouble. There is also a roommate of Elena’s who had sex one time with Axle in the past and then he ignored her and she’s salty about it and gives Elena attitude.
OM Drama: Yes. Elena’s boss is interested in her and is pushy towards wanting to spend time with her. He starts to SA her at a party but Axle intervenes before anything can happen. There is a bit of jealousy from Axle because she is still friends with her ex and they text sometimes but he never makes an appearance.
Intimacy: They kiss around 30%, fool around a bit after that and then have sex around 75%.
3rd Act Breakup/Separation: Yes, for a few days, maybe a week? No other partners while separated.
HEA/Epilogue: HEA with them getting married but no epilogue. It’s an interconnected series so I’m guessing they are seen in future books.
My Thoughts: Apparently I pre-ordered this book but I have no memory of it. I only found out about it because I had a receipt in my emails. It was only 99 cents and I’d like my 99 cents back. It’s not horrible writing but it’s pretty basic, kind of Wattpadish. The characters and world building was surface level and rushed.
Elena is annoying. She moved away from her controlling, religious parents to be able to experience life more fully. Yet, she resists any attempts to make friends and just wants to hide in her room and read books. Why bother moving if you’re too scared to leave your room? She’s shocked and appalled by pretty much everything. I get that she’s written to be this sheltered and innocent girl but she came off as an annoying prude.
Axle was whatever. I didn’t hate him, didn’t like him…he was just written in a surface level way as what he was supposed to be…a bad boy MC member.
The premise is that Axle and his MC brother make a bet that Axle can get a “good girl” to fall in love with him and let him have sex with her. Of course you know it’s going to be revealed to the h at some point and that’s supposed to be the big gut punch drama and then subsequent grovel. Only, there was no gut punch because the writing isn’t that good and there is no grovel because Axle has the emotional depth of a worm. He earns his way back into her good graces by saving her from being raped by her boss.
One thing that really stuck out to me for some reason is one particular scene. Axle was taken in and mentored by a guy named Victor who is now dead. Axle kept Victor’s bike displayed inside the club so that it doesn’t get damaged. One night, another MC member and a club girl start fooling around and accidentally knock into the bike. As it starts to fall over, Elena jumps in and catches the bike with her shoulder and gets hurt. Axle rushes over to push the bike off her and then….checks the bike over for damages. Not Elena. He doesn’t check his girlfriend who just caught a heavy bike from falling with her body for any injuries. He doesn’t even mention it until later when they start to fool around and he kisses her shoulder. 🙄 I’m sorry but if the girl gets hurt and he’s more concerned about a damn bike, he’s not worth shit. He didn’t even thank her! 😂 After that, I just wasn’t invested in him as the H. Also, I have no idea what he looks like. Maybe there was a description of him and I just don’t remember.
Overall, it’s not the worst thing I’ve ever read but I won’t be continuing with the series even if they were free.
Page Length: 223
POV: Dual first person
Purchased for 99 cents through Kindle
Safety Info: Pretty safe I guess. Neither are virgins. Shes been with 1 guy before. He’s in an MC so he’s been with club girls and many others. Minimal details and no sex scenes with anyone besides the h. He doesn’t touch any other women once he meets h. There is OW and OM drama but neither of them are interested.
Hero: Axle, early twenties, MC member/mechanic
Heroine: Elena, early twenties, waitress
OW Drama: Yes. He’s been having sex with a club girl who he dumps after meeting Elena. She is jealous and causes trouble. There is also a roommate of Elena’s who had sex one time with Axle in the past and then he ignored her and she’s salty about it and gives Elena attitude.
OM Drama: Yes. Elena’s boss is interested in her and is pushy towards wanting to spend time with her. He starts to SA her at a party but Axle intervenes before anything can happen. There is a bit of jealousy from Axle because she is still friends with her ex and they text sometimes but he never makes an appearance.
Intimacy: They kiss around 30%, fool around a bit after that and then have sex around 75%.
3rd Act Breakup/Separation: Yes, for a few days, maybe a week? No other partners while separated.
HEA/Epilogue: HEA with them getting married but no epilogue. It’s an interconnected series so I’m guessing they are seen in future books.
My Thoughts: Apparently I pre-ordered this book but I have no memory of it. I only found out about it because I had a receipt in my emails. It was only 99 cents and I’d like my 99 cents back. It’s not horrible writing but it’s pretty basic, kind of Wattpadish. The characters and world building was surface level and rushed.
Elena is annoying. She moved away from her controlling, religious parents to be able to experience life more fully. Yet, she resists any attempts to make friends and just wants to hide in her room and read books. Why bother moving if you’re too scared to leave your room? She’s shocked and appalled by pretty much everything. I get that she’s written to be this sheltered and innocent girl but she came off as an annoying prude.
Axle was whatever. I didn’t hate him, didn’t like him…he was just written in a surface level way as what he was supposed to be…a bad boy MC member.
The premise is that Axle and his MC brother make a bet that Axle can get a “good girl” to fall in love with him and let him have sex with her. Of course you know it’s going to be revealed to the h at some point and that’s supposed to be the big gut punch drama and then subsequent grovel. Only, there was no gut punch because the writing isn’t that good and there is no grovel because Axle has the emotional depth of a worm. He earns his way back into her good graces by saving her from being raped by her boss.
One thing that really stuck out to me for some reason is one particular scene. Axle was taken in and mentored by a guy named Victor who is now dead. Axle kept Victor’s bike displayed inside the club so that it doesn’t get damaged. One night, another MC member and a club girl start fooling around and accidentally knock into the bike. As it starts to fall over, Elena jumps in and catches the bike with her shoulder and gets hurt. Axle rushes over to push the bike off her and then….checks the bike over for damages. Not Elena. He doesn’t check his girlfriend who just caught a heavy bike from falling with her body for any injuries. He doesn’t even mention it until later when they start to fool around and he kisses her shoulder. 🙄 I’m sorry but if the girl gets hurt and he’s more concerned about a damn bike, he’s not worth shit. He didn’t even thank her! 😂 After that, I just wasn’t invested in him as the H. Also, I have no idea what he looks like. Maybe there was a description of him and I just don’t remember.
Overall, it’s not the worst thing I’ve ever read but I won’t be continuing with the series even if they were free.
Page Length: 223
POV: Dual first person
Purchased for 99 cents through Kindle
March 31, 2026
The story starts with a bet, so the whole relationship is built on a lie from the beginning, which could’ve been very emotional — but it felt too obvious and didn’t hit as hard as it should.
The romance develops too quickly, and I didn’t fully believe the connection between them. Elena felt a bit passive, and Axle’s behavior made it hard to root for him.
There’s a lot of drama — jealousy, toxic situations, tension — but instead of adding depth, it just felt messy and surface-level.
The romance develops too quickly, and I didn’t fully believe the connection between them. Elena felt a bit passive, and Axle’s behavior made it hard to root for him.
There’s a lot of drama — jealousy, toxic situations, tension — but instead of adding depth, it just felt messy and surface-level.
April 2, 2026
3.5
У книги був такий хороший потенціал... прям відчувається що не вистачає розвитку стосунків та і взагалі герой якесь нещастячко. Героїня заслуговує на кращого чоловіка. Але не жалкую, що прочитала. Для настрою на легке клішоване читання - саме то
У книги був такий хороший потенціал... прям відчувається що не вистачає розвитку стосунків та і взагалі герой якесь нещастячко. Героїня заслуговує на кращого чоловіка. Але не жалкую, що прочитала. Для настрою на легке клішоване читання - саме то
Did Not Finish
May 13, 2026"Я вирішу за тебе все твоє життя"
Dnf 66%
Сюжет кудись не туди завернув
Троп "торкнись її і ти помреш" перетворився на гіперопіку та маніпуляції
Dnf 66%
Сюжет кудись не туди завернув
Троп "торкнись її і ти помреш" перетворився на гіперопіку та маніпуляції
November 17, 2024
This story is alternately entertaining and cringeworthy. The summary appealed to me, that's why I started it. There were certainly parts in it that I found amusing, and as a reader I also felt involved with the main characters.
The way the club members interact with each other is humorous. The development of Axl and his relationship with Elena was also nicely described What I didn't like was the writing style. It seems a bit simplified. The characters are a bit cliché, the innocent Elena, who can be fooled so easily by the people around her, her colleague who uses her, the bad boss, the jealous ladies of the MC, they are all very caricatured. On the other hand, that also seems to be part of the genre, so maybe it's just that I don't like it. It certainly has entertainment value as well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The way the club members interact with each other is humorous. The development of Axl and his relationship with Elena was also nicely described What I didn't like was the writing style. It seems a bit simplified. The characters are a bit cliché, the innocent Elena, who can be fooled so easily by the people around her, her colleague who uses her, the bad boss, the jealous ladies of the MC, they are all very caricatured. On the other hand, that also seems to be part of the genre, so maybe it's just that I don't like it. It certainly has entertainment value as well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 1, 2026
Betting on the Nun
Jake "Axle" Evans is a fool who lucks into the girl of his dreams, Elena. I do agree that she's too trusting, and her aversion to conflict has me grinding my teeth a time or two. That said, I respect that she does stand up for herself with her parents and Axle.
She does surprise me when it comes to intimacy. The way these two take to the sheets is a treat. She doesn't say it, but I guess witnessing Viper's activities gives her some ideas. I'm sticking with this idea.
“You want to make a bet on that? I guarantee I can get into a relationship with her, and I’ll take it one step further and make her fall in love with me.”
-- Axle Evans
I do like that Axle's careless bet gets him sent to the doghouse. The fact that she doesn't quickly forgive him is a point in her favor. This is a good start to a series that I already know gets better (I started with Demon and am circling back).
I read along with the audio book. I like the narrators, Benjamin Sands and Tasha Morgan. They provide a good listening experience. 🎧💜🎧
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 3.5 stars
Listening Speed: 1.8x
H = 30s?; h = early 20s
June 28, 2025
My rating: 3.75 Stars
What I loved: I loved how protected Axle(H) was over Elena(h). It was great how him and Demon took care of the boss.
What I didn’t like: I wish we got to see the roommates be put in their place especially how the one allowed the boss to take Elena up to her room when she was drunk. I also needed to see Elena stand up for herself and tell off her so called friends and the sweet butts.
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: MC, OW Drama, h is a bet. h just moved into town. She wanted to live life away from her parents. h moves in with a bunch of woman and got a waitress job at a fancy seafood restaurant. There she meets a coworker that puts the h’s picture up on a dating website. H is part of a MC. He is tired of being with the same type of women and wants a sweet innocent woman. He sees the h’s picture on the dating site and wants her. His MC brother bets him that she will never go out with a biker. He takes him up on that bet and starts texting the h. The coworker, pretending to be the h, links up with the H. The h at first is upset, but decides to take a chance and text him. They start a friendship and with a very charming persistent H it turns into more. H during this time is not with anyone else and is all in with the h. One of the sweet butts is jealous because she always thought that the H would make her his old lady. Also, the h’s boss wants the h and is always trying to get her to hang out with him and the roommates. H finds out that the boss sexually assaulted another woman and makes sure someone takes the h to work and picks her up, keeping an eye on the h while she is working. H and h exchange I love you’s and later the sweet butt makes sure the h overhears her talking to the H about the bet. They also make the h believe the H was with other woman. h gets upset and breaks up with the H. H tries talking to the h and explains how he made the bet before he met her and that his feelings are real. h tells him she doesn’t believe him. A week later, the h gets drunk at a party the roommates are having and the boss tries to assault her. H comes and saves her, taking care of the boss. HEA with the H and h getting back together, she moves in with him and shortly after they get married.
Final thoughts: I saw this was a free book and gave it a go and I’m glad I did. Definitely will read the next one about her sister and Reaper.
What I loved: I loved how protected Axle(H) was over Elena(h). It was great how him and Demon took care of the boss.
What I didn’t like: I wish we got to see the roommates be put in their place especially how the one allowed the boss to take Elena up to her room when she was drunk. I also needed to see Elena stand up for herself and tell off her so called friends and the sweet butts.
***Major Spoilers/ Details/Triggers: MC, OW Drama, h is a bet. h just moved into town. She wanted to live life away from her parents. h moves in with a bunch of woman and got a waitress job at a fancy seafood restaurant. There she meets a coworker that puts the h’s picture up on a dating website. H is part of a MC. He is tired of being with the same type of women and wants a sweet innocent woman. He sees the h’s picture on the dating site and wants her. His MC brother bets him that she will never go out with a biker. He takes him up on that bet and starts texting the h. The coworker, pretending to be the h, links up with the H. The h at first is upset, but decides to take a chance and text him. They start a friendship and with a very charming persistent H it turns into more. H during this time is not with anyone else and is all in with the h. One of the sweet butts is jealous because she always thought that the H would make her his old lady. Also, the h’s boss wants the h and is always trying to get her to hang out with him and the roommates. H finds out that the boss sexually assaulted another woman and makes sure someone takes the h to work and picks her up, keeping an eye on the h while she is working. H and h exchange I love you’s and later the sweet butt makes sure the h overhears her talking to the H about the bet. They also make the h believe the H was with other woman. h gets upset and breaks up with the H. H tries talking to the h and explains how he made the bet before he met her and that his feelings are real. h tells him she doesn’t believe him. A week later, the h gets drunk at a party the roommates are having and the boss tries to assault her. H comes and saves her, taking care of the boss. HEA with the H and h getting back together, she moves in with him and shortly after they get married.
Final thoughts: I saw this was a free book and gave it a go and I’m glad I did. Definitely will read the next one about her sister and Reaper.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2024
A shy book nerd, an outgoing sexy biker, and a secret bet only MC members know about…what could go wrong? A lot…betting on love might just lead to some broken hearts along the way.
This book is for you if you
- love a good opposites attract storyline
- are looking for a new motorcycle club series to binge
- want to read a unique meet cute (I’ve read dozens of romance and rom-com, but this is the first dating app “meet cute” I’ve read)
Elena, innocent yet independent, moves to the small coastal town of Crown Village. With her new job at the local seafood restaurant and her new roommates who love a good party, Elena finds herself set up on a dating app matched with the notorious Axle, a member of the town's resident Motorcycle Club, the War Brothers.
Axle is flirtatious, overly confident and looking for a new challenge when a MC brother makes him a wager he can’t turn down - make an innocent girl fall in love with him and he wins the bet. With his charm, wit, and persistence Axle wears Elena down and their relationship grows slow and steady. As a reader, it was a very sweet story and Axle challenges the rough and rugged biker stereotype.
I’ve read several MC series and it took me a few chapters to get into the author’s writing style, but once I did I realized I loved all the little details added into the story that brought the characters and scenes to life. While Elena was awkward and dorky, she had such an endearing personality. There were scenes where I really wanted her to be more assertive and it was frustrating to read how she handled certain situations, but looking at the book as a whole it was just part of her growth into a more self-assured person.
Read the full review: https://xoxoalexandra.com/axle-by-bia...
This book is for you if you
- love a good opposites attract storyline
- are looking for a new motorcycle club series to binge
- want to read a unique meet cute (I’ve read dozens of romance and rom-com, but this is the first dating app “meet cute” I’ve read)
Elena, innocent yet independent, moves to the small coastal town of Crown Village. With her new job at the local seafood restaurant and her new roommates who love a good party, Elena finds herself set up on a dating app matched with the notorious Axle, a member of the town's resident Motorcycle Club, the War Brothers.
Axle is flirtatious, overly confident and looking for a new challenge when a MC brother makes him a wager he can’t turn down - make an innocent girl fall in love with him and he wins the bet. With his charm, wit, and persistence Axle wears Elena down and their relationship grows slow and steady. As a reader, it was a very sweet story and Axle challenges the rough and rugged biker stereotype.
I’ve read several MC series and it took me a few chapters to get into the author’s writing style, but once I did I realized I loved all the little details added into the story that brought the characters and scenes to life. While Elena was awkward and dorky, she had such an endearing personality. There were scenes where I really wanted her to be more assertive and it was frustrating to read how she handled certain situations, but looking at the book as a whole it was just part of her growth into a more self-assured person.
Read the full review: https://xoxoalexandra.com/axle-by-bia...
November 29, 2024
Axle is Book 1 of the War Brother's MC series. It's a spicy, instalove, OTT, opposites-attract, girl gets her biker romance. Axle is a hunky, charming, sexy inked mechanic with a playboy reputation and biker. Elena is a shy, innocent, and somewhat nerdy bookworm who was raised by strict religious parents.
The two meet in a dating app as Axle thinks she's cute but too good for him. but Axle is challenged by a mc brother who bets him $1000 that he can't have a relationship with her and the game is on.
But real feelings develop. What happens when she finds out about the bet?
I had a hard time connecting with these characters. The chemistry was just ok for me. We do end on a happy note, but there is a lot of drama first. Be sure to read the trigger warnings, too, as there are some sensitive topics. 3.5☆s.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The two meet in a dating app as Axle thinks she's cute but too good for him. but Axle is challenged by a mc brother who bets him $1000 that he can't have a relationship with her and the game is on.
But real feelings develop. What happens when she finds out about the bet?
I had a hard time connecting with these characters. The chemistry was just ok for me. We do end on a happy note, but there is a lot of drama first. Be sure to read the trigger warnings, too, as there are some sensitive topics. 3.5☆s.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 13, 2024
Betting on Love
It all started with a bet regarding a dating app. Axle found a woman he wanted to meet and when finding out she was an innocent Viper bet him he couldn’t get her to fall in love with him. Elana moved away from her overbearing parents to start fresh and hopefully come out of her shell. She lived in a house with other girls and got a job as a waitress in an upscale restaurant with a sleazy boss. A “friend” from work set her up on a dating app and Axle was persistent in pursuing her.
Club girls…what can you say. They always seem so catty and wanting to stir things up. Elena was their target because one was into Axle and since Elena, he left her at the side. I loved watching Axle and Elena discovering each other and watching real love bloom all as she was coming out of her shell. I will definitely be reading more books from this author.
It all started with a bet regarding a dating app. Axle found a woman he wanted to meet and when finding out she was an innocent Viper bet him he couldn’t get her to fall in love with him. Elana moved away from her overbearing parents to start fresh and hopefully come out of her shell. She lived in a house with other girls and got a job as a waitress in an upscale restaurant with a sleazy boss. A “friend” from work set her up on a dating app and Axle was persistent in pursuing her.
Club girls…what can you say. They always seem so catty and wanting to stir things up. Elena was their target because one was into Axle and since Elena, he left her at the side. I loved watching Axle and Elena discovering each other and watching real love bloom all as she was coming out of her shell. I will definitely be reading more books from this author.
November 2, 2024
I am a bit confused why this is book 1 but it is the 4th book to come out, however it was a good, quick read. Elena and Axle were basically obsessed with each other from the start much as Elena doesn't want to admit that. I am really enjoying the MC series and the characters and love how they always come together for each other. There was lots of club and other drama in this book, but i felt it really added to the overall story. Looking forward to the next book. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book for my honest review.
November 8, 2024
4 stars
I'm a little confused about the order of this series, but ok, I got the hang of it. The book was light and I read it in a couple of hours. Axle is a little too pushy for my taste, Elena is too withdrawn. That's probably why they make a good couple and are perfect for each other. Overall the book was solid and kept me relaxed for a few hours.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I'm a little confused about the order of this series, but ok, I got the hang of it. The book was light and I read it in a couple of hours. Axle is a little too pushy for my taste, Elena is too withdrawn. That's probably why they make a good couple and are perfect for each other. Overall the book was solid and kept me relaxed for a few hours.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
April 16, 2025
Axel by Bianca Lee Ward isn't just a book – it's a heart-pounding, soul-stirring experience that completely consumed me from the very first page. I’m honestly in awe. If I could reach through the pages and live in the world Bianca created, I would in a heartbeat. This story owns me.
Let’s talk about Axel and Elena – where do I even begin? Their relationship progression was nothing short of extraordinary. It wasn’t rushed, it wasn’t cliché – it was real. Raw. Emotional. The slow burn between them was delicious, but what truly set this story apart was the depth of their connection. You could feel the tension simmering beneath the surface, and when it finally spilled over? Fireworks. But it wasn’t just about the heat – it was about the trust they built, the walls they broke down, and the healing they found in each other.
Axel is everything you want in a hero – broody, broken, fiercely protective, and underneath all that armor, a heart of absolute gold. His struggles were portrayed with such authenticity, I felt every ounce of his pain, frustration, and love. Elena is a queen in her own right – resilient, compassionate, and beautifully layered. She doesn’t just play the part of the love interest; she’s the soul of this story. Watching her rediscover herself while navigating her feelings for Axel was incredibly moving.
Bianca Lee Ward’s writing is chef’s kiss. Her ability to weave emotional depth, suspense, romance, and healing into a seamless story is unmatched. The dialogue felt so natural, the inner monologues so raw, I had to pause multiple times just to breathe and soak it all in. There were moments that broke me, others that healed me, and so many that made me smile like an idiot.
The supporting characters were also wonderfully crafted and added dimension to the world without taking the spotlight off Axel and Elena. Everything had a purpose. Every scene pushed the story forward in a meaningful way.
This book lingered in my mind long after I finished it. I kept thinking about Axel’s quiet strength, Elena’s bravery, the way they found light in each other despite the darkness they'd both lived through. Axel is a book that doesn’t just entertain – it stays with you. It makes you feel.
Final Thoughts:
If you're looking for a romance that makes your heart race, tears at your emotions, and leaves you completely satisfied yet craving more – Axel is it. This book is everything I love about romance and then some. It’s passionate, heartfelt, and written with incredible care and emotional intelligence. Bianca Lee Ward, you’ve gained a forever fan.
Rating: 10/5 stars. Yes, I’m breaking the scale – and I’d do it again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Let’s talk about Axel and Elena – where do I even begin? Their relationship progression was nothing short of extraordinary. It wasn’t rushed, it wasn’t cliché – it was real. Raw. Emotional. The slow burn between them was delicious, but what truly set this story apart was the depth of their connection. You could feel the tension simmering beneath the surface, and when it finally spilled over? Fireworks. But it wasn’t just about the heat – it was about the trust they built, the walls they broke down, and the healing they found in each other.
Axel is everything you want in a hero – broody, broken, fiercely protective, and underneath all that armor, a heart of absolute gold. His struggles were portrayed with such authenticity, I felt every ounce of his pain, frustration, and love. Elena is a queen in her own right – resilient, compassionate, and beautifully layered. She doesn’t just play the part of the love interest; she’s the soul of this story. Watching her rediscover herself while navigating her feelings for Axel was incredibly moving.
Bianca Lee Ward’s writing is chef’s kiss. Her ability to weave emotional depth, suspense, romance, and healing into a seamless story is unmatched. The dialogue felt so natural, the inner monologues so raw, I had to pause multiple times just to breathe and soak it all in. There were moments that broke me, others that healed me, and so many that made me smile like an idiot.
The supporting characters were also wonderfully crafted and added dimension to the world without taking the spotlight off Axel and Elena. Everything had a purpose. Every scene pushed the story forward in a meaningful way.
This book lingered in my mind long after I finished it. I kept thinking about Axel’s quiet strength, Elena’s bravery, the way they found light in each other despite the darkness they'd both lived through. Axel is a book that doesn’t just entertain – it stays with you. It makes you feel.
Final Thoughts:
If you're looking for a romance that makes your heart race, tears at your emotions, and leaves you completely satisfied yet craving more – Axel is it. This book is everything I love about romance and then some. It’s passionate, heartfelt, and written with incredible care and emotional intelligence. Bianca Lee Ward, you’ve gained a forever fan.
Rating: 10/5 stars. Yes, I’m breaking the scale – and I’d do it again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 24, 2026
I gave this book a try based on its blurb it sounded really interesting. It wasn't the worst thing ive read and the story was good. Its an MC book so the good girl/bad boy dynamic was expected (no virgins) yes there's OW/OM drama but of no interest to the main characters. There's love and heartbreak with redemption which is all good. But what let it down was the writing. It felt very juvenile or it came from one of those PPC websites.
What did really annoy me was the how many warnings the FMC had that the MMC was no good but completely ignored all the warning signs. Plus don't tell someone at for the majority of the book that you are not going to be sleeping with them and acting like you are some kingdom of virgin to then turn around and throw that all out the window first chance you get in his bed 🙈🙈
What did really annoy me was the how many warnings the FMC had that the MMC was no good but completely ignored all the warning signs. Plus don't tell someone at for the majority of the book that you are not going to be sleeping with them and acting like you are some kingdom of virgin to then turn around and throw that all out the window first chance you get in his bed 🙈🙈
November 4, 2024
This is book 0.5 of the War Brothers MC series and if you are new to the series it would be great if your journey starts here, because each of these men are just perfect book boyfriends and their ol' ladies are resilient feisty things!
I've been a fan of this series since book 1, so reading this prequel was absolutely fantastic, I think Elena and Axle deserved their story to be told.
Another engaging story that follows Elena and Axle since they first met. and I loveeeeed it! I need more War Brothers MC stories asap!
I've been a fan of this series since book 1, so reading this prequel was absolutely fantastic, I think Elena and Axle deserved their story to be told.
Another engaging story that follows Elena and Axle since they first met. and I loveeeeed it! I need more War Brothers MC stories asap!
November 1, 2024
I loved this book. Axel was both wild and lovingly protective. Elena was so innocent. I found it hard to read how nasty the girls who should have been her friends were. The MC became a safe and loving family for Elena.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
November 9, 2024
Bianca Lee Ward's Axle is a thrilling ride into the world of motorcycle clubs. It's a quick and easy read that'll keep you hooked from start to finish.
The story follows Elena, a regular girl who gets swept up in the dangerous and exciting world of the War Brothers MC. She falls for Axle, the club's vice president, who is tough, brooding, and undeniably sexy.
The book is full of sizzling chemistry, intense drama, and plenty of action. Ward does a great job of balancing the romance with the thrilling world of motorcycle clubs. It's a perfect blend of love and danger.
If you're looking for a fast-paced, heart-pounding romance, Axle is definitely worth checking out.#biancaleeward #NetGalley
The story follows Elena, a regular girl who gets swept up in the dangerous and exciting world of the War Brothers MC. She falls for Axle, the club's vice president, who is tough, brooding, and undeniably sexy.
The book is full of sizzling chemistry, intense drama, and plenty of action. Ward does a great job of balancing the romance with the thrilling world of motorcycle clubs. It's a perfect blend of love and danger.
If you're looking for a fast-paced, heart-pounding romance, Axle is definitely worth checking out.#biancaleeward #NetGalley
November 18, 2024
Wow I think this book has jumped to my number 1, I could not put it down! Elana’s personality definitely didn’t start out the way I was expecting but I love how her character evolved during the story. Axel has a troubled past, as do most of the brothers, but we see him learn how to love and be loved, be it very unexpectedly. A must read from Bianca Lee Ward, and I cannot wait for the next one.
November 7, 2024
I absolutely loved reading this story, yes Axle is a player but oh how the mighty will fall when least expected.
Axle has had a lot of women, so when he is challenged by Viper to make someone fall in love with him the best is on. He picks Elena who is a shy virgin who has just come to their town and has been under thumb of Mum and Dad.
But he's soon in for a surprise because it all backfires on him, he becomes her man.
But others mainly the club women are jealous and jealousy knows no boundary when it comes to them wanting who they want. Can Elena get over how Axle has tricked and lied to her?
This was a great book to read and certainly will be interested in reading other books by this author
Axle has had a lot of women, so when he is challenged by Viper to make someone fall in love with him the best is on. He picks Elena who is a shy virgin who has just come to their town and has been under thumb of Mum and Dad.
But he's soon in for a surprise because it all backfires on him, he becomes her man.
But others mainly the club women are jealous and jealousy knows no boundary when it comes to them wanting who they want. Can Elena get over how Axle has tricked and lied to her?
This was a great book to read and certainly will be interested in reading other books by this author
November 6, 2024
At the beginning of the book, I wasn’t sure… innocent girl, bad boy biker… here we go again…
BUT
I was wrong, Axle quickly draws you in, and Elena makes it hard not to like her. Their relationship is a little insta-love but there’s so much going against them, they’re complete opposites, Elena’s striving for independence and Axle is trying to lock her down to win a bet… but inevitably they fall, and they fall hard.
I *hated* the confrontation with Grace and Axle, how the girls set Elena up to witness the bet conversation, it was so painful, and the circumstances that follow were hard to read, but Axle is her knight in tin foil striding in to save the day, and we all breathed a sigh of relief at that, am I right?!
A really sweet, quick read that grips you from the beginning
BUT
I was wrong, Axle quickly draws you in, and Elena makes it hard not to like her. Their relationship is a little insta-love but there’s so much going against them, they’re complete opposites, Elena’s striving for independence and Axle is trying to lock her down to win a bet… but inevitably they fall, and they fall hard.
I *hated* the confrontation with Grace and Axle, how the girls set Elena up to witness the bet conversation, it was so painful, and the circumstances that follow were hard to read, but Axle is her knight in tin foil striding in to save the day, and we all breathed a sigh of relief at that, am I right?!
A really sweet, quick read that grips you from the beginning
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2024
Awesome Book!!
I really enjoyed reading Axle, it was a great story and it sucked me in and kept me engrossed from the start of this book until the very end.
I really enjoyed reading Axle, it was a great story and it sucked me in and kept me engrossed from the start of this book until the very end.
May 30, 2025
Cute, fluffy with great side characters.
November 13, 2024
The book is full of sizzling chemistry, intense drama, and plenty of action, Club girl drama. What starts off as a bet between Axle and his brother that turns into something unexpected. This opposites attract, fast paced read romance.
November 5, 2024
I could not put this book down. I had to know more about Elena and Axle.
Elena moves to a coastal town to escape her strict parents and be more independent. She gets a job at a restaurant where her friend signs her up for a dating app so she can "meet more people" - she matches with Axle who in his profile picture is very attractive and is a huge flirt. Little does she know that he's a member of the War Brothers Motorcycle Club.
This opposites attract book is so satisfying to read. It made me interested in reading more in the series, let's see what these other MC brothers have to offer!
Elena moves to a coastal town to escape her strict parents and be more independent. She gets a job at a restaurant where her friend signs her up for a dating app so she can "meet more people" - she matches with Axle who in his profile picture is very attractive and is a huge flirt. Little does she know that he's a member of the War Brothers Motorcycle Club.
This opposites attract book is so satisfying to read. It made me interested in reading more in the series, let's see what these other MC brothers have to offer!
November 9, 2024
like book it is intense
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gem books and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is where I say the author gives enough information.
So, I do not give anything away.
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gem books and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is where I say the author gives enough information.
So, I do not give anything away.
November 6, 2024
Yin and Yang
Loved this book so much. You can never judge a book by its cover and also in this case a person. Love the loyalty between all the War Brothers. Elena and Axle make a good match and love the banter between them. Looking forward to Demon’s book.
Loved this book so much. You can never judge a book by its cover and also in this case a person. Love the loyalty between all the War Brothers. Elena and Axle make a good match and love the banter between them. Looking forward to Demon’s book.
November 5, 2024
I thought the book was really enjoyable. I would not change anything about the book. I did not want to put the book down because it was good and I didn’t want the story to end. I wanted the book/ story to continue. I love the characters’ growth.
April 3, 2025
Boring and awkwardly written.
November 3, 2024
AXLE is the first instalment in Bianca Lee Ward’s contemporary, adult WAR BROTHERS MC erotic, MC romance series. This is Jake ‘Axle’ Evans, and Elena’s story line.
NOTE: Although Axle is the first book in the series, all of the books (so far) have been released out of order, and therefore some of the situations and characters are already known.
Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Elena and Axle) AXLE follows the building relationship between our story line couple. Elena is new in Crown Village, having ‘escaped’ her judgemental family back home but having met her new roommates, Elena begins to question her decision including working at the local seafood restaurant, and the boss who is questionable at best. When a fellow employee sets Elena up on a dating app, our heroine never expected to come face to face with a member of the War Brothers MC, the man with whom Elena will fall in love but all is not as it appears to be, and Elena will discover she is a pawn in a bet between members of the War Brothers MC.
The world building focuses on the building romance and relationship between our story line couple, as well as Elena’s unsettling boss, the problematic women of the War Brothers MC; our heroine’s battle to break free from the past, and Elena’s struggle with Axle’s life as a member of the MC.
The relationship between Elena and Axle begins as a dating app match, a match in which Axle is manipulating their ‘affair’. Elena is naïve to the MC lifestyle, and in this, she is gullible to the comments and rhetoric, as well as the manipulation of her roommates and fellow employees. As Axle continues his ‘seduction’ of our story line heroine, Elena begins to fall for a man who may not be as honest as she thought. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters include Elena’s numerous roommates and their ever present friends; her questionable boss Cameron, and co-worker Mel. We are (re) introduced to several members of the War Brothers MC including Reaper (Ava), Viper, Demon, Bomber, and Twitch.
AXLE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and heart break, family and relationships, forgiveness and love. The fast paced premise is engaging and edgy ; the characters are animated and sensitive; the romance is flawed and spirited.
copy supplied for review
NOTE: Although Axle is the first book in the series, all of the books (so far) have been released out of order, and therefore some of the situations and characters are already known.
Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Elena and Axle) AXLE follows the building relationship between our story line couple. Elena is new in Crown Village, having ‘escaped’ her judgemental family back home but having met her new roommates, Elena begins to question her decision including working at the local seafood restaurant, and the boss who is questionable at best. When a fellow employee sets Elena up on a dating app, our heroine never expected to come face to face with a member of the War Brothers MC, the man with whom Elena will fall in love but all is not as it appears to be, and Elena will discover she is a pawn in a bet between members of the War Brothers MC.
The world building focuses on the building romance and relationship between our story line couple, as well as Elena’s unsettling boss, the problematic women of the War Brothers MC; our heroine’s battle to break free from the past, and Elena’s struggle with Axle’s life as a member of the MC.
The relationship between Elena and Axle begins as a dating app match, a match in which Axle is manipulating their ‘affair’. Elena is naïve to the MC lifestyle, and in this, she is gullible to the comments and rhetoric, as well as the manipulation of her roommates and fellow employees. As Axle continues his ‘seduction’ of our story line heroine, Elena begins to fall for a man who may not be as honest as she thought. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters include Elena’s numerous roommates and their ever present friends; her questionable boss Cameron, and co-worker Mel. We are (re) introduced to several members of the War Brothers MC including Reaper (Ava), Viper, Demon, Bomber, and Twitch.
AXLE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and heart break, family and relationships, forgiveness and love. The fast paced premise is engaging and edgy ; the characters are animated and sensitive; the romance is flawed and spirited.
copy supplied for review
November 7, 2024
*A very big thank you to the author and her publishers for sending me a copy of this in exchange for an honest review via netgalley*
I wanted to love this because I am a huge MC romance fan, but personally this wasn't dark enough for me. Not even dark per say, but it just had nothing MC about it in the book. He shares nothing about his life in the MC with the main girl, we don't see them go to do any deals or any fights with rival gangs etc. They mention they have church but it's more to discuss their love lives than anything actually MC related. If you took out the MC plot line and made them frat boys at university, nothing about the plot would change. Axle would still be a protective guy with a military backstory, and Elena would still be a naive good girl. And their opposites attract, and his bet to get with her plot line would still be a thing. And because the author didn't take it dark, as you would expect of an MC, the plots just kind of fell a bit flat. Even the retribution at the end, happened off screen for a plot point that also didn't happen, just threatened to happen. It just felt like it missed the mark of an MC
I wasn't against the characters, they were decent, occasionally funny and had a nice dynamic that didn't feel too forced. But their backstories didn't feel developed. They built up Elena's Ex so much all for that plot line to come to nothing.
Lastly, this is a personal preference that I don't hold against the book - but not enough spice for me. If I sign up for an MC romance, with a self-professed slut for a MMC, I want spice to accompany that and this just didn't have it. They kissed a lot but that's it. I felt he gave up a lot of his personality for her, while she gave up nothing.
I did enjoy reading this, but it isn't MC and so I don't think I'd recommend it.
I liked the writing, so if the author decides to write a cute small town romance, I am so there for that cause she has the sweet falling in love stuff down, just not the depravity for MC romance.
I wanted to love this because I am a huge MC romance fan, but personally this wasn't dark enough for me. Not even dark per say, but it just had nothing MC about it in the book. He shares nothing about his life in the MC with the main girl, we don't see them go to do any deals or any fights with rival gangs etc. They mention they have church but it's more to discuss their love lives than anything actually MC related. If you took out the MC plot line and made them frat boys at university, nothing about the plot would change. Axle would still be a protective guy with a military backstory, and Elena would still be a naive good girl. And their opposites attract, and his bet to get with her plot line would still be a thing. And because the author didn't take it dark, as you would expect of an MC, the plots just kind of fell a bit flat. Even the retribution at the end, happened off screen for a plot point that also didn't happen, just threatened to happen. It just felt like it missed the mark of an MC
I wasn't against the characters, they were decent, occasionally funny and had a nice dynamic that didn't feel too forced. But their backstories didn't feel developed. They built up Elena's Ex so much all for that plot line to come to nothing.
Lastly, this is a personal preference that I don't hold against the book - but not enough spice for me. If I sign up for an MC romance, with a self-professed slut for a MMC, I want spice to accompany that and this just didn't have it. They kissed a lot but that's it. I felt he gave up a lot of his personality for her, while she gave up nothing.
I did enjoy reading this, but it isn't MC and so I don't think I'd recommend it.
I liked the writing, so if the author decides to write a cute small town romance, I am so there for that cause she has the sweet falling in love stuff down, just not the depravity for MC romance.
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