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The Smoky Vale Alliance #3
Bloom: Part One
He is the harbinger of death. I am a savior of lives.
Together, we’re a paradox that should never work.
The only unpredictability I allow in my structured life is my work as a trauma surgeon.
That comes to a halt when a young, feral goth biker decides I am his.
The gifts he sends me are downright creepy.
But the scars his tattoos fail to hide make me want to protect him from the world.
When a security threat forces the hospital into lockdown, Bloom’s feral nature takes over.
He doesn’t care how many die as long as I make it out alive.
Only then do I understand how unhinged he truly is.
But when he whispers, “It’s November,” my protective instincts kicks in.
He’s mine, scars, chaos, and all.
Bloom is the third book in the Smoky Vale Alliance series. This is part 1 of what will be 2 books for Bloom. While it can be read as a stand-alone, it is recommended to read Crowe’s Creed from The Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale and Bay, book 1 in this series. This book contains content that may not be suitable for all including PTSD from childhood endangerment and gross neglect and graphic violence.
Together, we’re a paradox that should never work.
The only unpredictability I allow in my structured life is my work as a trauma surgeon.
That comes to a halt when a young, feral goth biker decides I am his.
The gifts he sends me are downright creepy.
But the scars his tattoos fail to hide make me want to protect him from the world.
When a security threat forces the hospital into lockdown, Bloom’s feral nature takes over.
He doesn’t care how many die as long as I make it out alive.
Only then do I understand how unhinged he truly is.
But when he whispers, “It’s November,” my protective instincts kicks in.
He’s mine, scars, chaos, and all.
Bloom is the third book in the Smoky Vale Alliance series. This is part 1 of what will be 2 books for Bloom. While it can be read as a stand-alone, it is recommended to read Crowe’s Creed from The Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale and Bay, book 1 in this series. This book contains content that may not be suitable for all including PTSD from childhood endangerment and gross neglect and graphic violence.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 10, 2024
238 people are currently reading
509 people want to read
About the author
Gianni Holmes
106 books1,288 followersGianni Holmes is a USA TODAY Bestselling author who's embracing her love for literature by wielding the pen and creating stories of her own. She's the author of the popular series The Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale and The Taking Care series. Gianni is a former teacher of Spanish Language and Hispanic Literature.
These days she can be found writing books, hanging out with her readers, and raising her daughter as a single mother. You can keep in touch with her in the following places:
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/authorgiannih...
Newsletter: https://www.gianniholmesauthor.com/ne...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/giannigems
These days she can be found writing books, hanging out with her readers, and raising her daughter as a single mother. You can keep in touch with her in the following places:
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/authorgiannih...
Newsletter: https://www.gianniholmesauthor.com/ne...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/giannigems
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
May 10, 2024
4/5
The fact that I was fully ready for this book two or three times in 2023, and then in January and March of this year, because it kept being postponed and postponed, so when I finally saw it on my Kindle, I was beyond happy. Seriously, I couldn't believe it was here. I know this series is far from perfect, it has many flaws and some of the mentions of character dynamics from other books by this author make me feel deeply uncomfortable, but fortunately the main characters of The Smoky Vale Alliance are exactly how I like my fictional men, so I can definitely see myself reading their stories again in the future.
To be honest, this series isn't something I would normally reach for because its covers aren't exactly my cup of tea — I’m not the biggest fan of men on covers as I never picture the model as the character, but after devouring the first book and becoming overly attached to the main characters, especially Bloom and Dr. Logan Collier, I kind of became addicted to it. I'm still not sure why I've become so obsessed with Bloom and Logan, maybe because I love reading about two completely different people falling in love, or maybe because I'm pretty sure I am sapiosexual — meaning that I'm really attracted to highly intelligent people, which Dr. Collier most certainly is, and that's why I found him so hot, not to mention Bloom, who I couldn't help but fall in love with as a cold-blooded killer with a too dark past who in reality is a cutie who wears too much piercings and who you won't see in any other color than black. In the two previous book they basically become the main even for me — even though I still liked the main characters from Bay and Gunner, but Dr. Collier and Bloom somehow just outshone all of them.
From the previous books I expected that Doctor Collier would continue to ignore Bloom due to his lack of interest in him — which was also the case here at the beginning, but from different reasons — and Bloom would eventually break his shell and make his doctor fall in love with him, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that Logan was actually struggling with his attraction to Bloom, but for some reason he didn't want to give in to his feelings. Their relationship may not have started in the most genuine way and they didn’t gotten involved for the right reasons, but I loved how their relationship developed over the course of the book and that they started to truly love each other at the end. Logan was so gentle with Bloom and did everything in his power to make him feel safe and like he belonged somewhere, when he called him "sweetheart" and "baby" it melted my heart every time, and the fact that he didn't say that they were fucking but that they were making love made me just
Bloom couldn't have made a better choice in choosing a partner. This guy deserves the whole world after what he's been through because his story is one of the most heartbreaking I've ever read about, so I was extremely happy that he found Logan. I know they still have a few secrets between them, especially from the doctor's side, but I hope Bloom understands them because Logan couldn't tell them to anyone to protect himself from his past.
The book also couldn't exist without their banter, which was part of what made me fall in love with these two.
I literally can't wait to read more of this in the second part of their story.
As I already said, I know this series isn't perfect, but I'm having such a good time reading it because sometimes it's just pure comedy, so I hope the second book about Logan and Bloom doesn't disappoint me either!
I’m basically dying to read it now.
*I received a free copy of this book from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.*
The fact that I was fully ready for this book two or three times in 2023, and then in January and March of this year, because it kept being postponed and postponed, so when I finally saw it on my Kindle, I was beyond happy. Seriously, I couldn't believe it was here. I know this series is far from perfect, it has many flaws and some of the mentions of character dynamics from other books by this author make me feel deeply uncomfortable, but fortunately the main characters of The Smoky Vale Alliance are exactly how I like my fictional men, so I can definitely see myself reading their stories again in the future.
To be honest, this series isn't something I would normally reach for because its covers aren't exactly my cup of tea — I’m not the biggest fan of men on covers as I never picture the model as the character, but after devouring the first book and becoming overly attached to the main characters, especially Bloom and Dr. Logan Collier, I kind of became addicted to it. I'm still not sure why I've become so obsessed with Bloom and Logan, maybe because I love reading about two completely different people falling in love, or maybe because I'm pretty sure I am sapiosexual — meaning that I'm really attracted to highly intelligent people, which Dr. Collier most certainly is, and that's why I found him so hot, not to mention Bloom, who I couldn't help but fall in love with as a cold-blooded killer with a too dark past who in reality is a cutie who wears too much piercings and who you won't see in any other color than black. In the two previous book they basically become the main even for me — even though I still liked the main characters from Bay and Gunner, but Dr. Collier and Bloom somehow just outshone all of them.
From the previous books I expected that Doctor Collier would continue to ignore Bloom due to his lack of interest in him — which was also the case here at the beginning, but from different reasons — and Bloom would eventually break his shell and make his doctor fall in love with him, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that Logan was actually struggling with his attraction to Bloom, but for some reason he didn't want to give in to his feelings. Their relationship may not have started in the most genuine way and they didn’t gotten involved for the right reasons, but I loved how their relationship developed over the course of the book and that they started to truly love each other at the end. Logan was so gentle with Bloom and did everything in his power to make him feel safe and like he belonged somewhere, when he called him "sweetheart" and "baby" it melted my heart every time, and the fact that he didn't say that they were fucking but that they were making love made me just
"You have no idea how special you are, Bloom, but I swear I’ll show you. I will spend the rest of my life showing you."
Bloom couldn't have made a better choice in choosing a partner. This guy deserves the whole world after what he's been through because his story is one of the most heartbreaking I've ever read about, so I was extremely happy that he found Logan. I know they still have a few secrets between them, especially from the doctor's side, but I hope Bloom understands them because Logan couldn't tell them to anyone to protect himself from his past.
The book also couldn't exist without their banter, which was part of what made me fall in love with these two.
“Are you hurt in any other places?”
“Yes.”
I snapped my head up. “Where?”
He pressed a hand to his chest. “In here every time you ignore me.”
“If I went to prison, would you visit me?”
“No,” he said without missing a beat.
Scowling, I smacked him in the chest and stepped back. “Why the fuck not? I’d be digging a tunnel to get you out.”
“I wouldn’t do anything to go to prison in the first place. If you want to be with me so badly, stay out of prison.”
“I am serious, Bloom.” I stopped at the door with my hand on the handle. “If you disobey me, I swear to you that you will have no chance with me.”
His face split into a grin. “What I’m hearing is that I have a shot.”
I literally can't wait to read more of this in the second part of their story.
As I already said, I know this series isn't perfect, but I'm having such a good time reading it because sometimes it's just pure comedy, so I hope the second book about Logan and Bloom doesn't disappoint me either!
I’m basically dying to read it now.
*I received a free copy of this book from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.*
May 23, 2024
4.5 Stars
I loved this book so much. This is shocking to me because I normally HATE age gap romances and Logan is over 20 years older than Bloom. But I still loved it because it wasn't that weird and It also had some of my favourite topes:
A:) Unhinged MC
B:) Opposites attract
C:) Obsessed MC
D:) Bad boy Mc (That is secretly a golden retriever)
E:) Past Trauma (I love mcs with trauma sue me)
I love Bloom so much and that first chapter was so freaking sad my heart aches for him. I am so glad he murdered his pathetic parents they deserved the death they got. He just wanted someone to love him 😭
“Nah, it’s Bloom. It’ll be about head stuff. He doesn’t have much else going on. Doesn’t really have a life outside of all that, do you, sport?”
The way he went about courting Logan made me laugh so much.
“What the hell is this?” My face went hot, and I stepped back. “Don’t you dare move another muscle, Bloom.” “I did nothing wrong!” “No? Didn’t I tell you not to send any more dick pics to the doctor?” 😭
“Are you hurt in any other places?”
“Yes.”
I snapped my head up. “Where?”
He pressed a hand to his chest. “In here every time you ignore me.”
I got to my feet with him wrapped around me. [...]“Get down so I can answer the door.” “Nope.” “Bloom, you’re killing me.” “No, I’m loving you.”
“Jesus, Bloom, that hurts.” He hissed. “Are you trying to kill me?” “Just marking what’s mine. And you deserve it for making me love this so much.”
I could do anything else Dr. Simms wanted me to do. Except leave Logan alone. I was already close to drugging him and tattooing my name on his chest. Right over his heart.
I was kinda mad at Logan for not being obsessed with Bloom the way he was obsessed with him.
“If you die, I’ll kill myself."
“You won’t. I’d do it for you without a doubt, but you don’t love me that much to physically be unable to exist without me.”
But He also had his moments like the first date
"Let me take you on a date.” I sucked in a breath. “A real date?” “Yeah.”
"look at you.” “Can you blame me for wanting to show off the most stunning guy I’ve ever been with? I’ll never want to keep you hidden away.”
The bracelet he gifted bloom!! 😭💘🫠
"I thought it was fitting for you when the jeweler explained the significance behind the design. The leaves symbolize the growth you’ve gone through. It’s to remind you that when it seems as if you still have a long way to go, to look back and see how far you’ve come. The prehnite has protective capabilities. I’ll always be here to protect you, and I hope you remember that, even when I’m not physically with you. You don’t have to be alone and take on the world on your own anymore. You’ve got me now.”
Ama be honest with you guys the whole worship thing made me so uncomfortable but I loved this moment so much.
"If it’s blood you need, then let it be mine.”
I was debating picking this up because I saw they were getting two books, but after reading the book I get why their story needs two books. I loved this one so much. I can't wait to read about Logans past and see their relationship evolve
I loved this book so much. This is shocking to me because I normally HATE age gap romances and Logan is over 20 years older than Bloom. But I still loved it because it wasn't that weird and It also had some of my favourite topes:
A:) Unhinged MC
B:) Opposites attract
C:) Obsessed MC
D:) Bad boy Mc (That is secretly a golden retriever)
E:) Past Trauma (I love mcs with trauma sue me)
I love Bloom so much and that first chapter was so freaking sad my heart aches for him. I am so glad he murdered his pathetic parents they deserved the death they got. He just wanted someone to love him 😭
“Nah, it’s Bloom. It’ll be about head stuff. He doesn’t have much else going on. Doesn’t really have a life outside of all that, do you, sport?”
The way he went about courting Logan made me laugh so much.
“What the hell is this?” My face went hot, and I stepped back. “Don’t you dare move another muscle, Bloom.” “I did nothing wrong!” “No? Didn’t I tell you not to send any more dick pics to the doctor?” 😭
“Are you hurt in any other places?”
“Yes.”
I snapped my head up. “Where?”
He pressed a hand to his chest. “In here every time you ignore me.”
I got to my feet with him wrapped around me. [...]“Get down so I can answer the door.” “Nope.” “Bloom, you’re killing me.” “No, I’m loving you.”
“Jesus, Bloom, that hurts.” He hissed. “Are you trying to kill me?” “Just marking what’s mine. And you deserve it for making me love this so much.”
I could do anything else Dr. Simms wanted me to do. Except leave Logan alone. I was already close to drugging him and tattooing my name on his chest. Right over his heart.
I was kinda mad at Logan for not being obsessed with Bloom the way he was obsessed with him.
“If you die, I’ll kill myself."
“You won’t. I’d do it for you without a doubt, but you don’t love me that much to physically be unable to exist without me.”
But He also had his moments like the first date
"Let me take you on a date.” I sucked in a breath. “A real date?” “Yeah.”
"look at you.” “Can you blame me for wanting to show off the most stunning guy I’ve ever been with? I’ll never want to keep you hidden away.”
The bracelet he gifted bloom!! 😭💘🫠
"I thought it was fitting for you when the jeweler explained the significance behind the design. The leaves symbolize the growth you’ve gone through. It’s to remind you that when it seems as if you still have a long way to go, to look back and see how far you’ve come. The prehnite has protective capabilities. I’ll always be here to protect you, and I hope you remember that, even when I’m not physically with you. You don’t have to be alone and take on the world on your own anymore. You’ve got me now.”
Ama be honest with you guys the whole worship thing made me so uncomfortable but I loved this moment so much.
"If it’s blood you need, then let it be mine.”
I was debating picking this up because I saw they were getting two books, but after reading the book I get why their story needs two books. I loved this one so much. I can't wait to read about Logans past and see their relationship evolve
January 2, 2025
I love part 1 of Bloom and Logan's crazy and unhinged love story. Their romance is filled with surprises, and unorthodox gestures of love while maintaining a completely addicting atmosphere where I could not get enough of these two together. Their love story is filled with obsession, slight stalker tendencies, with a touch of violence.
Bloom's love language is to completely own his person and the person he sets his sights upon is Dr. Logan Collier. Logan is also more than meets the eye. He is a dedicated and talented physician whom Bloom becomes completely enamored with, while Logan is also completely smitten with his unhinged stalker. Together they have a strong push/pull dynamic while both have a strong possessive tendency toward the other.
Their passion quickly builds organically throughout the story and culminates in a crazy third act that left me anxiously reading to see the result which I was not expecting at all.
I'm so happy there are two parts to Bloom and Logan's story. There is so much to unpack with these two and I love that in part one you are given so much of Bloom's backstory which completely explains his actions and overall behavior, whereas with Logan only small comments and suggestions give small insights into his mysterious backstory, which I am so excited to get more of in part 2.
I am so excited to see what happens next and loved the first part of their story. Cannot wait for more!!!
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Bloom's love language is to completely own his person and the person he sets his sights upon is Dr. Logan Collier. Logan is also more than meets the eye. He is a dedicated and talented physician whom Bloom becomes completely enamored with, while Logan is also completely smitten with his unhinged stalker. Together they have a strong push/pull dynamic while both have a strong possessive tendency toward the other.
Their passion quickly builds organically throughout the story and culminates in a crazy third act that left me anxiously reading to see the result which I was not expecting at all.
I'm so happy there are two parts to Bloom and Logan's story. There is so much to unpack with these two and I love that in part one you are given so much of Bloom's backstory which completely explains his actions and overall behavior, whereas with Logan only small comments and suggestions give small insights into his mysterious backstory, which I am so excited to get more of in part 2.
I am so excited to see what happens next and loved the first part of their story. Cannot wait for more!!!
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
June 6, 2024
i will not be taking any questions at this time
May 25, 2024
I am very late on this arc review since I have no life these days 😭 but I honestly loved part 1. It's not perfect by any means but Gianni delivered as she always does.
Bloom has my whole heart and I loved him and "Logan" together. It was only a matter of time before Bloom won him with his charms.
Cannot wait for part two😭🩷🩷
I received this arc for free from the author and this is my honest opinion/review.
Bloom has my whole heart and I loved him and "Logan" together. It was only a matter of time before Bloom won him with his charms.
Cannot wait for part two😭🩷🩷
I received this arc for free from the author and this is my honest opinion/review.
January 22, 2025
4**** stars
Oh Bloom, baby. ♥︎
✘ Bloom’s story broke my heart. Of course it did.
✘ The mystery around Logan’s past had me on the edge of my seat. Not sure how I feel about the revelation, tho.
✘ I loved all the ways Bloom tried to change Logan’s mind to give him a chance.
✘ The hospital hostage situation was exactly the thrill I needed.
✘ I loved Jamie and Crowe and I think I’m going for their respective Daddy romances someday.
✘ And this sleazy psychiatrist gave me the creeps.
On to Part Two.
*************
The Smoky Vale Alliance Series
Book 1 - Bay
Book 2 - Gunner
Book 3 - Bloom: Part One - 4.0 stars
Book 4 - Bloom: Part Two
Book 5 - Sarge - release 04/25
Book 6 - Winter - tbr, release 04/25
Oh Bloom, baby. ♥︎
✘ Bloom’s story broke my heart. Of course it did.
✘ The mystery around Logan’s past had me on the edge of my seat. Not sure how I feel about the revelation, tho.
✘ I loved all the ways Bloom tried to change Logan’s mind to give him a chance.
“I won’t call, Bloom, so don’t wait.”
“You can tell me to leave your office, Logan, but waiting is my choice. And no one gets to take my choices away from me anymore.”
✘ The hospital hostage situation was exactly the thrill I needed.
✘ I loved Jamie and Crowe and I think I’m going for their respective Daddy romances someday.
✘ And this sleazy psychiatrist gave me the creeps.
On to Part Two.
*************
The Smoky Vale Alliance Series
Book 1 - Bay
Book 2 - Gunner
Book 3 - Bloom: Part One - 4.0 stars
Book 4 - Bloom: Part Two
Book 5 - Sarge - release 04/25
Book 6 - Winter - tbr, release 04/25
January 26, 2025
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
“I won’t call, Bloom, so don’t wait.”
“You can tell me to leave your office, Logan, but waiting is my choice. And no one gets to take my choices away from me anymore.”
Oh gosh, angsty fun, broken characters, unhealthy obsession, made me cry, a stunning goth man, and so much more. Once I started this audiobook I didn’t stop until I finished it, and I’m already a ways through part 2.
It’s such a good concept for a story and very well done. It definitely starts as a field of waving red flags (I mean, they’re not gone by the end, but you’ll be colorblind by then), but it turns sweet and weirdly wholesome. I just want Bloom to feel beautiful, feel loved, and to feel like he belongs somewhere. Yeah, he’s properly messed up but he’s also just adorable, lol.
I tend to forget that Gianni writes dark and angsty, but consider me reminded. Characters keeping secrets makes me feel like I’m dying, a lil bit. So good.
“Logan.” “Hmm.” “Do I make you happy?” “Yes. And do I make you happy?” “You make me, Logan.”
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Past trauma
Motorcycle club
Age gap
Size difference
Found family
Piercings
Tattoos
Doctor MC
Mental illness rep
Virgin MC
Personality disorder
Face-riding
Felching
Desperate bottom
First times
Book 1 of 2
Goth MC
Keeping secrets
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Vomiting
Graphic violence
Graphic corpse details
Injured SC (on page)
MC swallowing human flesh after biting in self-defense (past, on page)
MC abused and neglected as a child (some details)
Self harm (on page)
Harassment (between MCs)
On-page gambling (slot machines)
Internalized homophobia
Misogynistic thoughts/comments
Alcohol consumption
Manipulation between MCs
MC threatening self harm
Injured MC (on-page medical procedure, sutures)
Mentions of past forced psychiatric hospitalization
Explicit sexual content
Drug-addicted SC (few details)
Rape of SC (off page, intoxicated victim)
MC killing people on page
On-page enema
Attachment disorder
Gun violence
Death of SC (bad guy)
Hostage situation (MC involved)
Unnamed character sexually assaulted (groped when tied up, brief)
Penetration without lube
Mild piss play (blowjob with droplets)
MC severely injured (gunshot wound)
SC overdosing (survives)
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: Logan says yes to a date with a previous hookup after first kiss with Bloom. He regrets it and cancels.
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, multi
Genre: Dark romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: Unknown and (I think) 40
Series: Duology, interconnected with series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 370
Happy ending: Mild HFN
“What’s up, Doc?” He grinned from ear to ear, stretching those plump lips of his. He was stunning just by being, but when he smiled… my god, was he gorgeous. My stomach fluttered, and I inhaled. Dammit. He smelled delicious and made my mouth water. I wanted to lick him all over, exploring his tattoos with my tongue. You can’t have anything to do with this boy.
“I know you’re lying, but I’ll go for now. You’re going to miss me, and when you do, you should call me. No matter how long it takes, I’ll come running. Because it’s you.”
God, he wasn’t merely beautiful. He was stunning. Breathtaking. Captivating.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
“I won’t call, Bloom, so don’t wait.”
“You can tell me to leave your office, Logan, but waiting is my choice. And no one gets to take my choices away from me anymore.”
Oh gosh, angsty fun, broken characters, unhealthy obsession, made me cry, a stunning goth man, and so much more. Once I started this audiobook I didn’t stop until I finished it, and I’m already a ways through part 2.
It’s such a good concept for a story and very well done. It definitely starts as a field of waving red flags (I mean, they’re not gone by the end, but you’ll be colorblind by then), but it turns sweet and weirdly wholesome. I just want Bloom to feel beautiful, feel loved, and to feel like he belongs somewhere. Yeah, he’s properly messed up but he’s also just adorable, lol.
I tend to forget that Gianni writes dark and angsty, but consider me reminded. Characters keeping secrets makes me feel like I’m dying, a lil bit. So good.
“Logan.” “Hmm.” “Do I make you happy?” “Yes. And do I make you happy?” “You make me, Logan.”
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Past trauma
Motorcycle club
Age gap
Size difference
Found family
Piercings
Tattoos
Doctor MC
Mental illness rep
Virgin MC
Personality disorder
Face-riding
Felching
Desperate bottom
First times
Book 1 of 2
Goth MC
Keeping secrets
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Vomiting
Graphic violence
Graphic corpse details
Injured SC (on page)
MC swallowing human flesh after biting in self-defense (past, on page)
MC abused and neglected as a child (some details)
Self harm (on page)
Harassment (between MCs)
On-page gambling (slot machines)
Internalized homophobia
Misogynistic thoughts/comments
Alcohol consumption
Manipulation between MCs
MC threatening self harm
Injured MC (on-page medical procedure, sutures)
Mentions of past forced psychiatric hospitalization
Explicit sexual content
Drug-addicted SC (few details)
Rape of SC (off page, intoxicated victim)
MC killing people on page
On-page enema
Attachment disorder
Gun violence
Death of SC (bad guy)
Hostage situation (MC involved)
Unnamed character sexually assaulted (groped when tied up, brief)
Penetration without lube
Mild piss play (blowjob with droplets)
MC severely injured (gunshot wound)
SC overdosing (survives)
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: Logan says yes to a date with a previous hookup after first kiss with Bloom. He regrets it and cancels.
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, multi
Genre: Dark romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: Unknown and (I think) 40
Series: Duology, interconnected with series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 370
Happy ending: Mild HFN
“What’s up, Doc?” He grinned from ear to ear, stretching those plump lips of his. He was stunning just by being, but when he smiled… my god, was he gorgeous. My stomach fluttered, and I inhaled. Dammit. He smelled delicious and made my mouth water. I wanted to lick him all over, exploring his tattoos with my tongue. You can’t have anything to do with this boy.
“I know you’re lying, but I’ll go for now. You’re going to miss me, and when you do, you should call me. No matter how long it takes, I’ll come running. Because it’s you.”
God, he wasn’t merely beautiful. He was stunning. Breathtaking. Captivating.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
May 10, 2024
4 stars. I thoroughly enjoyed this, and I’m pleased that it surpassed Gunner’s book by a landslide; it honestly might even top Bay’s book as my new favorite in the series, making me more impatient for the next book. I NEED more Bloom and Logan ASAP and am very curious about Logan’s past. I have some predictions through the hints given in this book, so we’ll see if I’m correct or not. The only reason it’s not 4.5 minimum is because I wish the 2 books were combined into one. Realizing I was like 97% done hit me like a stack of bricks; I wanted to keep reading 😭
Bloom was such a cute and endearing character; he suffered greatly, and due to this, he had a vulnerable, insecure side that made me sympathize and adore him more. Logan balanced him out so well, and their dynamic was super entertaining to read about. I loved the possessiveness and protectiveness they both displayed, and I really really really hope it’s further explored in their 2nd book.
Bloom was such a cute and endearing character; he suffered greatly, and due to this, he had a vulnerable, insecure side that made me sympathize and adore him more. Logan balanced him out so well, and their dynamic was super entertaining to read about. I loved the possessiveness and protectiveness they both displayed, and I really really really hope it’s further explored in their 2nd book.
June 19, 2024
"Today, I vow once more to be only yours in my heart, mind, body, and soul.."
"..Nothing but death shall separate me from you"
You know he's obsessed when... He does a blood ritual on his altar with your picture front n center 🤭
"I don't want you to hurt yourself anymore. If it's blood you need, then let it be mine"
Sweet baby Bloom. That opening scene was absolutely heartbreaking.
Every time he was open and vulnerable, I got a wee bit teary. He just wanted someone to love and accept him (craziness n all). The part when Logan found him in the shower. Ughhhh.💔
Blooms inner thoughts hurt.
I loved how Logan handled it.
"You have no idea how special you are, Bloom, but I swear I'll show you. I'll spend the rest of my life showing you.
Im extremely sad that Logan isn't fully honest with Bloom. We know nothing about his past.
What was that call about!? WHO TF was calling? Why is he hiding??? Why did he say it was time to leave?? There are so many questions and secrets.
Stressed.
The reviews said it's a HFN..I guess?? It felt like a huge cliffy to me.
Dude better not hurt Bloom. 👊
Good God and I LOATHED Dr. Simms ENTIRELY.
"You romanticize everything. None of it is real."
What a gigantic fucking dick. Everyone deserves to be loved. Worst physiatrist ever!
It made me giggle how much Bloom liked his butthole played with.
"Do that thing with your tongue again"
This part!!!!!-
L-"Are you hurt in any other places?"
B-"Yes"
L-"Where"
he pressed a hand to his chest.
B- "In here every time you ignore me"
If you're wondering why he was hurt, he stabbed himself in the leg so Logan (doctor) would have to treat him. 🤭
I haven't read the other books in the series, but I still enjoyed it.
Can't wait for book 2!
Virgin MC.
No cheating.
Slight OM drama, but it's cleared up pretty quick.
" Just marking what's mine, and you deserve it for making me love you this much"
"..Nothing but death shall separate me from you"
You know he's obsessed when... He does a blood ritual on his altar with your picture front n center 🤭
"I don't want you to hurt yourself anymore. If it's blood you need, then let it be mine"
Sweet baby Bloom. That opening scene was absolutely heartbreaking.
Every time he was open and vulnerable, I got a wee bit teary. He just wanted someone to love and accept him (craziness n all). The part when Logan found him in the shower. Ughhhh.💔
Blooms inner thoughts hurt.
I loved how Logan handled it.
"You have no idea how special you are, Bloom, but I swear I'll show you. I'll spend the rest of my life showing you.
Im extremely sad that Logan isn't fully honest with Bloom. We know nothing about his past.
What was that call about!? WHO TF was calling? Why is he hiding??? Why did he say it was time to leave?? There are so many questions and secrets.
Stressed.
The reviews said it's a HFN..I guess?? It felt like a huge cliffy to me.
Dude better not hurt Bloom. 👊
Good God and I LOATHED Dr. Simms ENTIRELY.
"You romanticize everything. None of it is real."
What a gigantic fucking dick. Everyone deserves to be loved. Worst physiatrist ever!
It made me giggle how much Bloom liked his butthole played with.
"Do that thing with your tongue again"
This part!!!!!-
L-"Are you hurt in any other places?"
B-"Yes"
L-"Where"
he pressed a hand to his chest.
B- "In here every time you ignore me"
If you're wondering why he was hurt, he stabbed himself in the leg so Logan (doctor) would have to treat him. 🤭
I haven't read the other books in the series, but I still enjoyed it.
Can't wait for book 2!
Virgin MC.
No cheating.
Slight OM drama, but it's cleared up pretty quick.
" Just marking what's mine, and you deserve it for making me love you this much"
May 11, 2024
I can't even begin to express how much I loved this book. It was everything I wanted and more! I met Bloom in Crowe's Creed and was immediately captivated by his character. I was overjoyed when I heard about the Alliance spin-off and that he was getting his own book. Well, two books since it's split into two parts. Part one focuses more on Bloom. You get a glimpse of his past and see how far he's come and his pursuit of Logan. Logan tries to resist, but their attraction is undeniable, and Blooms persistence pays off. They both have an unhealthy obsession with one another, and I'm here for it all! Even though part one doesn't end on a cliffhanger, you are left wanting and needing more in the best way. Logan has many secrets, and they're about to come to light. I can't wait to finish their story. Bloom part one was absolute perfection to me, and I can't wait to see how their story plays out. Highly recommend this book and the series, it's one of my favorites.
March 8, 2025
Bloom is formed by the darkest childhood you could imagine. We don't know everything before he was saved by Crowe but what we do know is awful. When he meets Dr Logan Collier he instantly knows that Logan is the one for him. Despite the feeling isn't mutual. At least not in the beginning.
May 9, 2024
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Another great addition to the Smokey Vale Alliance series by Gianni Holmes. I knew Bloom was going to be one of my favorites from what we've seen of him in prior books and I knew his backstory was going to utterly break my heart once I learned details and break my heart it did.
Bloom's childhood trauma has made him an unstable , dangerous, violent , obsessive man who , when it comes to relationships is innocent . He has two drastic personalities in one man and it just makes me want to protect him. His night terrors , insecures and trauma broke my heart. Is his obsession with Dr. Logan Collier healthy? No, but I was rooting him on every page. And when Logan fine gives into his attractions and feelings that he's grown for Bloom , he doesn't hold back. The way he takes care of and shows Bloom that he's worthy of affection is *chefs kiss * . The intimacy between them is 🔥 but Logan also shows him he ks worthy of dinner and movie dates.
Bloom part 1 doesn't end on one of those painful will they won't they or tragic cliffhangers (Thank You Holmes 🙌🏻) but I'm glad she made their story two books because I can't wait to learn more about the secrets Logan is keeping and hopefully Bloom gets the happy ending he deserves !
Favorite Quotes:
Another great addition to the Smokey Vale Alliance series by Gianni Holmes. I knew Bloom was going to be one of my favorites from what we've seen of him in prior books and I knew his backstory was going to utterly break my heart once I learned details and break my heart it did.
Bloom's childhood trauma has made him an unstable , dangerous, violent , obsessive man who , when it comes to relationships is innocent . He has two drastic personalities in one man and it just makes me want to protect him. His night terrors , insecures and trauma broke my heart. Is his obsession with Dr. Logan Collier healthy? No, but I was rooting him on every page. And when Logan fine gives into his attractions and feelings that he's grown for Bloom , he doesn't hold back. The way he takes care of and shows Bloom that he's worthy of affection is *chefs kiss * . The intimacy between them is 🔥 but Logan also shows him he ks worthy of dinner and movie dates.
Bloom part 1 doesn't end on one of those painful will they won't they or tragic cliffhangers (Thank You Holmes 🙌🏻) but I'm glad she made their story two books because I can't wait to learn more about the secrets Logan is keeping and hopefully Bloom gets the happy ending he deserves !
Favorite Quotes:
May 16, 2024
Buddy read with my bestie Eva 🩵
We were beyond excited to head back to Smoky Vale. Buddy reading “Bloom” with @evareadswithdog felt like coming back home. I’ve missed these characters something fierce; and I’ve struggled lately getting through books, but I was so intrigued by Bloom. We flew right this one. Bloom has captured not just Logan’s heart but also ours. We knew from the moment we read “Bay”, we were going to love him. Eva wants to hug him. I don’t want to get stabbed…
Their story is unique… it was obsession at first sight. Dr. Logan Collier is always composed, focusing on his work at the hospital, living his life, minding his own business. Till he sees Bloom. He tried but eventually he can’t stay away…
Bloom: “Hey, I need your opinion on something”
Saint: “No, you can’t kidnap the doctor”
Gunner snorted… I grinned. My brothers knew me so well…
Bloom: “I’m saving that for our first date”
Getting to learn Bloom’s back story and about his childhood broke us so significantly. I’ve cried for him so many times. This book has it all… You will laugh and then maybe cry a bit. There’s angst and difficult, hard moments. It’s a roller-coaster of emotions but the ride is so much worthwhile. And Bloom’s brothers. Crowe, Bay, Saint, Winter and Sarge… these men. All beautiful, strong and loyal…
“Bloom” is book 3 (and this is part 1 of 2) in The Smoky Vale Alliance Series. It can be read as a standalone but we personally believe you will enjoy it even more if read in the suggested reading order. Part One ends in a slight cliffhanger but in such a good way that you are not left in too much suspense or worry. As soon as we were done reading we started plotting, guessing what will happen next… It’s Smoky Vale, of course chaos is brewing and I’m already dying and clutching my pearls for part two. This is going to be beautiful torture waiting on it but I know Gianni will make it worth it.
p.s.: Eva has no pearls to clutch so she will just drop in my dm every now and then asking, “is it here yet?”
We were beyond excited to head back to Smoky Vale. Buddy reading “Bloom” with @evareadswithdog felt like coming back home. I’ve missed these characters something fierce; and I’ve struggled lately getting through books, but I was so intrigued by Bloom. We flew right this one. Bloom has captured not just Logan’s heart but also ours. We knew from the moment we read “Bay”, we were going to love him. Eva wants to hug him. I don’t want to get stabbed…
Their story is unique… it was obsession at first sight. Dr. Logan Collier is always composed, focusing on his work at the hospital, living his life, minding his own business. Till he sees Bloom. He tried but eventually he can’t stay away…
Bloom: “Hey, I need your opinion on something”
Saint: “No, you can’t kidnap the doctor”
Gunner snorted… I grinned. My brothers knew me so well…
Bloom: “I’m saving that for our first date”
Getting to learn Bloom’s back story and about his childhood broke us so significantly. I’ve cried for him so many times. This book has it all… You will laugh and then maybe cry a bit. There’s angst and difficult, hard moments. It’s a roller-coaster of emotions but the ride is so much worthwhile. And Bloom’s brothers. Crowe, Bay, Saint, Winter and Sarge… these men. All beautiful, strong and loyal…
“Bloom” is book 3 (and this is part 1 of 2) in The Smoky Vale Alliance Series. It can be read as a standalone but we personally believe you will enjoy it even more if read in the suggested reading order. Part One ends in a slight cliffhanger but in such a good way that you are not left in too much suspense or worry. As soon as we were done reading we started plotting, guessing what will happen next… It’s Smoky Vale, of course chaos is brewing and I’m already dying and clutching my pearls for part two. This is going to be beautiful torture waiting on it but I know Gianni will make it worth it.
p.s.: Eva has no pearls to clutch so she will just drop in my dm every now and then asking, “is it here yet?”
May 13, 2024
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary dark romance, MM
Main tropes: age gap, past trauma / abuse, bikers
I loved being back in Smoky Vale, and the first part of Bloom and Logan's story was an intense and slightly unhinged romance with plenty of suspense!
After reading this, I totally understand why Bloom and Logan needed two parts for their story, and I'm grateful that they will get the space needed for their story and relationship to fully unfold. It was interesting to get to know more of Bloom and his past, the first chapter was difficult to read, being told from Crowe's perspective about the day they found Bloom. I knew his past would be horrible, but it was still worse than I ever could have imagined...
Both Bloom and Logan were complex characters, with their own traumas and baggage to carry, and my heart ached for both of them. There was more about Bloom's background in this part, but it was obvious that Logan also had a past that was haunting him. I loved the many layers of Bloom that was shown here, everything from the unhinged and bloodthirsty enforcer, to the unexpectedly vulnerable boy who just wanted to be loved. His character was very well written with a lot of depth to it, and I loved the nuances it added. It took a bit longer to get to know Logan, but once he accepted and acted on his attraction to Bloom, he opened up a little more, and I'm eager to learn more about him.
I loved seeing the bikers again and being back in Smoky Vale amongst familiar characters, and the glimpses of Jamie made me smile a lot. The plot got intense mostly towards the end, with events that required some suspension of disbelief from my side, but it certainly made for a suspenseful and entertaining story. I'm thrilled to see how things play out in part two of Bloom and Logan's story - it really can't come soon enough!
-
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary dark romance, MM
Main tropes: age gap, past trauma / abuse, bikers
I loved being back in Smoky Vale, and the first part of Bloom and Logan's story was an intense and slightly unhinged romance with plenty of suspense!
After reading this, I totally understand why Bloom and Logan needed two parts for their story, and I'm grateful that they will get the space needed for their story and relationship to fully unfold. It was interesting to get to know more of Bloom and his past, the first chapter was difficult to read, being told from Crowe's perspective about the day they found Bloom. I knew his past would be horrible, but it was still worse than I ever could have imagined...
Both Bloom and Logan were complex characters, with their own traumas and baggage to carry, and my heart ached for both of them. There was more about Bloom's background in this part, but it was obvious that Logan also had a past that was haunting him. I loved the many layers of Bloom that was shown here, everything from the unhinged and bloodthirsty enforcer, to the unexpectedly vulnerable boy who just wanted to be loved. His character was very well written with a lot of depth to it, and I loved the nuances it added. It took a bit longer to get to know Logan, but once he accepted and acted on his attraction to Bloom, he opened up a little more, and I'm eager to learn more about him.
I loved seeing the bikers again and being back in Smoky Vale amongst familiar characters, and the glimpses of Jamie made me smile a lot. The plot got intense mostly towards the end, with events that required some suspension of disbelief from my side, but it certainly made for a suspenseful and entertaining story. I'm thrilled to see how things play out in part two of Bloom and Logan's story - it really can't come soon enough!
-
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 12, 2024
Wow, my expectations were low for this book because, to be honest, these books are hits and misses. I could not get into Gunnar but I loved Bay except the plot was hit or miss. But this book? Holy fuck, I devoured it and it was everything I did not expect but loved. I think this is my favorite book of 2024 to be completely honest.
The chemistry between these two characters was off the charts, and I easily fell in love with them as individuals and as a couple. They were opposites but yet together they fit like a puzzle. I was kicking and giggling my feet at the unhinged thoughts both these two had. I loved how Logan when he gave into his feelings for Bloom, damn did he give in. The bathroom scene!? oh, that will comfortably live rent-free in my mind for the rest of my life. He was understanding and loving of Bloom even though everyone was trying to keep them apart and scare him away from Bloom but he said fuck that, rightfully so.
I am thirsty for the rest of the story and I hope the second part will come out on time because the last 20% of the book left me on the edge of my seat and so much
This book had a lot of graphic scenes, thoughts, and situations but that is to be expected of this group of people and this type of story. I do enjoy the family dynamic in the Smoky Vale crew. I am so intrigued and curious about what will happen with Winter. Poor Winter.
I have no idea how I will recover from the book and somehow wait for the second part!? 🙃
The chemistry between these two characters was off the charts, and I easily fell in love with them as individuals and as a couple. They were opposites but yet together they fit like a puzzle. I was kicking and giggling my feet at the unhinged thoughts both these two had. I loved how Logan when he gave into his feelings for Bloom, damn did he give in. The bathroom scene!? oh, that will comfortably live rent-free in my mind for the rest of my life. He was understanding and loving of Bloom even though everyone was trying to keep them apart and scare him away from Bloom but he said fuck that, rightfully so.
I am thirsty for the rest of the story and I hope the second part will come out on time because the last 20% of the book left me on the edge of my seat and so much
This book had a lot of graphic scenes, thoughts, and situations but that is to be expected of this group of people and this type of story. I do enjoy the family dynamic in the Smoky Vale crew. I am so intrigued and curious about what will happen with Winter. Poor Winter.
I have no idea how I will recover from the book and somehow wait for the second part!? 🙃
April 4, 2025
These two were an insta love hot mess which was kind of endearing at the same time. Gianni is the queen of insta love which usually isn't my fave trope and in my opinion, silly arse characters, so I tend to not read her books but it worked here, especially because these two seemed to genuinely adore and obsess equally over one another.
I read Bay, and didn't love it and decided to completely miss Gunner. Sounds superficial, but I honestly wanted to read this book simply because I am quite mesmerised by the cover model, and then ended up liking the book.
Bloom is adorably unhinged; a dangerous combo of childlike naivete and psycho impulsivity. Although Logan is meant to be the stable one, as the older man, respectable doctor and all that, he shows he's only one tricky altercation away from being unhinged himself (especially as there are hints about his past). There's also an interesting side plot about Bloom's current psychiatrist, is he dodgy or am I reading too much into this?
Love John Solo's narration as always. Look forward to Bloom Part 2 when the audio comes out.
I read Bay, and didn't love it and decided to completely miss Gunner. Sounds superficial, but I honestly wanted to read this book simply because I am quite mesmerised by the cover model, and then ended up liking the book.
Bloom is adorably unhinged; a dangerous combo of childlike naivete and psycho impulsivity. Although Logan is meant to be the stable one, as the older man, respectable doctor and all that, he shows he's only one tricky altercation away from being unhinged himself (especially as there are hints about his past). There's also an interesting side plot about Bloom's current psychiatrist, is he dodgy or am I reading too much into this?
Love John Solo's narration as always. Look forward to Bloom Part 2 when the audio comes out.
December 3, 2025
Tropes: age gap, opposites attract, found family
Feels: 1/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: spanking, rough sex, toys
Angst: medium
HEA: HFN
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: violence, stalking, off-page rape of a minor character, drug use, child abuse and neglect, premeditated self-harm, hostage situations, murder, gore, homophobia by minor characters, unsafe sex, minor characters in incestuous relationship (glorifying/legitimizing incest... Ew)
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: Bloom has never been with anyone else. There are some references to Logan's past hookups and love interests. At one point Logan makes a date with another man intending to f*** him to get over Bloom, but he changes his mind and doesn't go through with it.
3 stars
Bloom is 19. He was abused and tortured until at age 12, he murdered his parents. He was a feral child because of his circumstances. Crowe and a few other guys from a motorcycle gang showed up at his house to collect on a debt of his father's, and they saw Bloom with the bodies of his parents. Even though everyone thought it would be better off for Bloom to die because his physical and mental health was such a shitshow, Crowe wanted to help Bloom and he became a father figure for him. Bloom is now a enforcer of the gang, and he is an unhinged killer. Bloom is against physical touch, he's never really been attracted to anyone. He's a virgin, but then he meets Dr Logan Collier (about 40 years old) and he's interested in him. Logan doesn't want to get involved with him for various reasons, and he tries to turn him down, but Bloom gives chase and grows on him, until Logan gives in and wants Bloom badly himself.
Spoilers... they have relationship obstacles because Logan is hiding that he is in witness protection and his cover is being blown and both of them are at risk. Bloom would have to leave his found family behind in order to live in safety with Logan.
This book did not work for me. I was excited for it, but I was putting off reading it because it is a duology and I didn't really have time to read them both as close together as I wanted to. Once I finally had the time... well I've read both of the books now, and I'm really disappointed. When I read a book that isn't a standalone, I like to read both books before I write my reviews. This review is just going to focus on the contents of this particular book.
I like the idea of Bloom as an unhinged character who was obsessed, but I think it wasn't executed properly. And I think that in the context of everything else that was happening in this duology, that there were some s***** decisions made that just made the romantic relationship between Bloom and Logan bad/unhealthy, and made me really think that these two do not belong together and shouldn't end up together. Which is not the vibe you want to inspire in your readers when you're writing.
Things I didn't like, in order of when they happened in the book / When the thought occurred to me as I was reading:
- I don't like that we were not shown the moment they met, and the mental thought process that Bloom went through to decide that he wanted Logan. It felt like it killed the excitement and tension to take that moment away from us and just dump us into where they were a few weeks later.
- A side couple in this book is a pair of twins in an incestuous relationship. Now, I'm a far left person, very accepting, and I will support all the colors of the lgbtqia+ rainbow and defend them. But I draw the line at an author trying to legitimize incest the way that this book did. Nope!
- There were a couple of moments where Logan was not as supportive as he could have been of Bloom. I thought Logan came across as ableist at times.
- Bloom literally had built an altar to worship Logan at, and he conducted a ritual of self harm and pledged himself to Logan. This was before they had even really gotten to know each other. Bloom was obsessed, he was not in love for ages. And even once he eventually fell in love, it didn't feel like their relationship had good foundation and depth to it. They were on very shaky grounds because of a lot of lies and miscommunication.
- Logan has not done anything to be worthy of the worship from Bloom. Seeing Bloom worship Logan was an ugly thing. It made me dislike Logan but also worried for the mental state of Bloom. This book was poorly planned, the combination of things in it are not romantic and doesn't even meet dark romance's idea of healthy. You have a huge age gap, Logan is twice Bloom's age. You have Bloom being completely inexperienced, a virgin, plus he is emotionally and mentally struggling. And Bloom has unequal feelings for Logan, Bloom cares so much more than Logan for a good portion of this book. And he blindly worships Logan, without really knowing him deeply. It just reeks of immaturity, and makes this couple not seem like they can last, their connection is built on fragile grounds. It just makes me uncomfortable on all levels.
- I clocked that Dr. Simms was a villain immediately, and it was painful watching Bloom continue seeing him. I'm really sensitive to unethical behaviour from therapists, and this was hard to watch.
Some notable moments:
"“How did you get inside my office? I locked the door when I came in. Did you get your hands on my keys?” He grinned. “I promised the janitor a blow job if he opened the door for me.” “You did what?” The words exploded out of me, and I clutched my chest. My blood boiled at the mental picture of Bloom on his knees, his lips locked around another man’s dick. Over. My. Dead. Body."
This is how Bloom deals with Logan's date. "“What did you do?” “Me?” He raised his eyebrows as if surprised I was incriminating him. “Don’t give me that innocent act. What did you do?” “Nothing. He’s outside in his car.” Oh, then… wait a minute. “Where in his car?” “The trunk.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 1/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: spanking, rough sex, toys
Angst: medium
HEA: HFN
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: violence, stalking, off-page rape of a minor character, drug use, child abuse and neglect, premeditated self-harm, hostage situations, murder, gore, homophobia by minor characters, unsafe sex, minor characters in incestuous relationship (glorifying/legitimizing incest... Ew)
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: Bloom has never been with anyone else. There are some references to Logan's past hookups and love interests. At one point Logan makes a date with another man intending to f*** him to get over Bloom, but he changes his mind and doesn't go through with it.
3 stars
Bloom is 19. He was abused and tortured until at age 12, he murdered his parents. He was a feral child because of his circumstances. Crowe and a few other guys from a motorcycle gang showed up at his house to collect on a debt of his father's, and they saw Bloom with the bodies of his parents. Even though everyone thought it would be better off for Bloom to die because his physical and mental health was such a shitshow, Crowe wanted to help Bloom and he became a father figure for him. Bloom is now a enforcer of the gang, and he is an unhinged killer. Bloom is against physical touch, he's never really been attracted to anyone. He's a virgin, but then he meets Dr Logan Collier (about 40 years old) and he's interested in him. Logan doesn't want to get involved with him for various reasons, and he tries to turn him down, but Bloom gives chase and grows on him, until Logan gives in and wants Bloom badly himself.
Spoilers... they have relationship obstacles because Logan is hiding that he is in witness protection and his cover is being blown and both of them are at risk. Bloom would have to leave his found family behind in order to live in safety with Logan.
This book did not work for me. I was excited for it, but I was putting off reading it because it is a duology and I didn't really have time to read them both as close together as I wanted to. Once I finally had the time... well I've read both of the books now, and I'm really disappointed. When I read a book that isn't a standalone, I like to read both books before I write my reviews. This review is just going to focus on the contents of this particular book.
I like the idea of Bloom as an unhinged character who was obsessed, but I think it wasn't executed properly. And I think that in the context of everything else that was happening in this duology, that there were some s***** decisions made that just made the romantic relationship between Bloom and Logan bad/unhealthy, and made me really think that these two do not belong together and shouldn't end up together. Which is not the vibe you want to inspire in your readers when you're writing.
Things I didn't like, in order of when they happened in the book / When the thought occurred to me as I was reading:
- I don't like that we were not shown the moment they met, and the mental thought process that Bloom went through to decide that he wanted Logan. It felt like it killed the excitement and tension to take that moment away from us and just dump us into where they were a few weeks later.
- A side couple in this book is a pair of twins in an incestuous relationship. Now, I'm a far left person, very accepting, and I will support all the colors of the lgbtqia+ rainbow and defend them. But I draw the line at an author trying to legitimize incest the way that this book did. Nope!
- There were a couple of moments where Logan was not as supportive as he could have been of Bloom. I thought Logan came across as ableist at times.
- Bloom literally had built an altar to worship Logan at, and he conducted a ritual of self harm and pledged himself to Logan. This was before they had even really gotten to know each other. Bloom was obsessed, he was not in love for ages. And even once he eventually fell in love, it didn't feel like their relationship had good foundation and depth to it. They were on very shaky grounds because of a lot of lies and miscommunication.
- Logan has not done anything to be worthy of the worship from Bloom. Seeing Bloom worship Logan was an ugly thing. It made me dislike Logan but also worried for the mental state of Bloom. This book was poorly planned, the combination of things in it are not romantic and doesn't even meet dark romance's idea of healthy. You have a huge age gap, Logan is twice Bloom's age. You have Bloom being completely inexperienced, a virgin, plus he is emotionally and mentally struggling. And Bloom has unequal feelings for Logan, Bloom cares so much more than Logan for a good portion of this book. And he blindly worships Logan, without really knowing him deeply. It just reeks of immaturity, and makes this couple not seem like they can last, their connection is built on fragile grounds. It just makes me uncomfortable on all levels.
- I clocked that Dr. Simms was a villain immediately, and it was painful watching Bloom continue seeing him. I'm really sensitive to unethical behaviour from therapists, and this was hard to watch.
Some notable moments:
"“How did you get inside my office? I locked the door when I came in. Did you get your hands on my keys?” He grinned. “I promised the janitor a blow job if he opened the door for me.” “You did what?” The words exploded out of me, and I clutched my chest. My blood boiled at the mental picture of Bloom on his knees, his lips locked around another man’s dick. Over. My. Dead. Body."
This is how Bloom deals with Logan's date. "“What did you do?” “Me?” He raised his eyebrows as if surprised I was incriminating him. “Don’t give me that innocent act. What did you do?” “Nothing. He’s outside in his car.” Oh, then… wait a minute. “Where in his car?” “The trunk.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2025
Read in another great buddy read with the always lovely Lilly ❤️
Oh I am SO glad Lilly and I waited to read this until the second book came out. While the ending wasn't too cliffhanger-y and not an edge of your seat type of cliffhanger, I still felt it classified as one because we're left in the middle of the story, with so much more story left to tell. I wanted to dive into the second book right away and thank GOD I can!
Seriously, I commend everyone who read this amazing book and was able to wait to the 9 months for the conclusion to this great, exciting story. (I know most probably thought they'd only have to wait a few months, but still.)
Bloom is everything I expected it to be and more. I just had this feeling I would love Bloom as a character and Bloom and Logan together and I wasn't wrong. I loved this and them even more than I thought I would.
I absolutely adored Logan as well. He's got a past that he's running from and has secrets of his own, but he's SO good for Bloom and he treats him so well and so softly and kindly, things Bloom has rarely, if ever, experienced before.
Learning just how bad Bloom's life was that made him the way he is was absolutely heartbreaking. He went through some of the worst abuse a child can go through. Honestly he's doing pretty okay considering his life up until Crowe and a few other bikers in the gang found him and brought him into the MC life. A large part of that is the intense therapy he had to go through with Saint's mother, but still. All the problems he still has are totally understandable.
If you've read the previous two books, you know that Bloom is obsessed with Logan. And Bloom doesn't know much about social cues and what is perhaps a bit too far or too much. And he's set his sights on Logan and that's who he wants, and he's determined to get Logan at all costs.
But also, honestly, we see a lot of softness to him that we didn't get to see previously. Logan makes him feel safe enough to be so. He also is pretty vulnerable with Logan where he isn't with anyone else. He's never been interested in anyone before, Logan is the only one - and will always be his only one.
Logan, of course, secretly loves that. He's older - around 20ish years older - and because of what he's running from, he thinks it's better to not get closer to anyone - which, we learn later why exactly that is as the story goes on - and at first he's determined to push Bloom away at every turn, even though he is heavily attracted to him and starts to gain feelings for him.
Of course, no matter how much Logan fights it, he can't resist Bloom forever. He does give in eventually, and the chemistry between these two is electric.
Because of Bloom's circumstances of how he grew up, they don't know his exact age, but he's around 20 or so. He's at least 18. But he's also been through so much, he still has night terrors sometimes, and has even wet his bed a few times as well. He has severe PTSD that isn't going away any time soon. Part of him is scared it will scare Logan off - but Logan proves to be the perfect man for Bloom when none of it does, that he cares for and starts to love Bloom as is, and he isn't scared away by the tough reality of Bloom's mental health.
But also Bloom is a bit fucked up in the head. He goes to murder so easily, and Logan isn't about that. But at times Logan has to fight the urge to be happy at Bloom threatening to hurt or kill someone for him or over him. There's a bit of darkness in Logan too that he tries to fight, but that comes out with Bloom, as his walls come down more and more and he lets out more of his true self with Bloom. Because we learn that Logan's past isn't the squeaky clean past of just a surgeon. He has some skeletons in his closet.
So these two are perhaps more suited for each other than they ever realized. But there is that unhealthy element to it that this author brings to a lot of her stories and I just gobble up. Bloom is young - and in some ways mentally younger because of his stilted upbringing in that abusive environment. He has so much healing and growing and maturing to do. Perhaps a relationship at this time in his life isn't the best - but they're going to do it anyway. They just can't stay away from each other.
And the sex is *chef's kiss* perfection. The chemistry is SO good (and nothing is forced) and the way Logan takes care of Bloom is wonderful to see. Logan is Bloom's first everything - and only - and Logan takes that seriously, treating Bloom with care and kindness. Bloom wanted someone for himself and he got that in Logan, who falls just as hard for Bloom as Bloom for Logan.
Then the climax of the book happens, which is a wild ride, keep you on the edge of your seat until the end, and then we get the slight cliffhanger -
I can't wait to continue the story into part 2, and see how on earth these two will get their hard fought for HEA.
Logan's past is coming to call, and he can't run from it anymore. But he's determined to keep Bloom safe (especially after what happens at the end of book one), but it might end up hurting Bloom in the end if he does.
I'm so excited to get into it and see how it all concludes. Definitely dive into this one, it might be the best of this series yet. Or at least on par with Gunner, I'm not sure. Either way, it was amazing.
Diving into part 2 right now!
My Ratings for The Smoky Vale Alliance Series:
💥 Bay: 4 stars (my review)
💥 Gunner: 4.75 stars (my review)
💥 Bloom: Part One: 5 stars
💥 Bloom: Part Two: 5 stars (my review)
💥 Sarge: TBR
💥 Winter: TBR
Oh I am SO glad Lilly and I waited to read this until the second book came out. While the ending wasn't too cliffhanger-y and not an edge of your seat type of cliffhanger, I still felt it classified as one because we're left in the middle of the story, with so much more story left to tell. I wanted to dive into the second book right away and thank GOD I can!
Seriously, I commend everyone who read this amazing book and was able to wait to the 9 months for the conclusion to this great, exciting story. (I know most probably thought they'd only have to wait a few months, but still.)
Bloom is everything I expected it to be and more. I just had this feeling I would love Bloom as a character and Bloom and Logan together and I wasn't wrong. I loved this and them even more than I thought I would.
I absolutely adored Logan as well. He's got a past that he's running from and has secrets of his own, but he's SO good for Bloom and he treats him so well and so softly and kindly, things Bloom has rarely, if ever, experienced before.
Learning just how bad Bloom's life was that made him the way he is was absolutely heartbreaking. He went through some of the worst abuse a child can go through. Honestly he's doing pretty okay considering his life up until Crowe and a few other bikers in the gang found him and brought him into the MC life. A large part of that is the intense therapy he had to go through with Saint's mother, but still. All the problems he still has are totally understandable.
If you've read the previous two books, you know that Bloom is obsessed with Logan. And Bloom doesn't know much about social cues and what is perhaps a bit too far or too much. And he's set his sights on Logan and that's who he wants, and he's determined to get Logan at all costs.
But also, honestly, we see a lot of softness to him that we didn't get to see previously. Logan makes him feel safe enough to be so. He also is pretty vulnerable with Logan where he isn't with anyone else. He's never been interested in anyone before, Logan is the only one - and will always be his only one.
Logan, of course, secretly loves that. He's older - around 20ish years older - and because of what he's running from, he thinks it's better to not get closer to anyone - which, we learn later why exactly that is as the story goes on - and at first he's determined to push Bloom away at every turn, even though he is heavily attracted to him and starts to gain feelings for him.
Of course, no matter how much Logan fights it, he can't resist Bloom forever. He does give in eventually, and the chemistry between these two is electric.
Because of Bloom's circumstances of how he grew up, they don't know his exact age, but he's around 20 or so. He's at least 18. But he's also been through so much, he still has night terrors sometimes, and has even wet his bed a few times as well. He has severe PTSD that isn't going away any time soon. Part of him is scared it will scare Logan off - but Logan proves to be the perfect man for Bloom when none of it does, that he cares for and starts to love Bloom as is, and he isn't scared away by the tough reality of Bloom's mental health.
But also Bloom is a bit fucked up in the head. He goes to murder so easily, and Logan isn't about that. But at times Logan has to fight the urge to be happy at Bloom threatening to hurt or kill someone for him or over him. There's a bit of darkness in Logan too that he tries to fight, but that comes out with Bloom, as his walls come down more and more and he lets out more of his true self with Bloom. Because we learn that Logan's past isn't the squeaky clean past of just a surgeon. He has some skeletons in his closet.
So these two are perhaps more suited for each other than they ever realized. But there is that unhealthy element to it that this author brings to a lot of her stories and I just gobble up. Bloom is young - and in some ways mentally younger because of his stilted upbringing in that abusive environment. He has so much healing and growing and maturing to do. Perhaps a relationship at this time in his life isn't the best - but they're going to do it anyway. They just can't stay away from each other.
And the sex is *chef's kiss* perfection. The chemistry is SO good (and nothing is forced) and the way Logan takes care of Bloom is wonderful to see. Logan is Bloom's first everything - and only - and Logan takes that seriously, treating Bloom with care and kindness. Bloom wanted someone for himself and he got that in Logan, who falls just as hard for Bloom as Bloom for Logan.
Then the climax of the book happens, which is a wild ride, keep you on the edge of your seat until the end, and then we get the slight cliffhanger -
I can't wait to continue the story into part 2, and see how on earth these two will get their hard fought for HEA.
Logan's past is coming to call, and he can't run from it anymore. But he's determined to keep Bloom safe (especially after what happens at the end of book one), but it might end up hurting Bloom in the end if he does.
I'm so excited to get into it and see how it all concludes. Definitely dive into this one, it might be the best of this series yet. Or at least on par with Gunner, I'm not sure. Either way, it was amazing.
Diving into part 2 right now!
My Ratings for The Smoky Vale Alliance Series:
💥 Bay: 4 stars (my review)
💥 Gunner: 4.75 stars (my review)
💥 Bloom: Part One: 5 stars
💥 Bloom: Part Two: 5 stars (my review)
💥 Sarge: TBR
💥 Winter: TBR
May 9, 2024
MC books just really aren’t my thing I guess. I was honestly enjoying it up until the end. 4 stars until the climax (giggity). I just could not suspend my imagination enough for the ending. I did finish it though, so pat on the back for me. Am I intrigued enough about Logan’s back story to read part 2? Unclear.
It probably doesn’t help with my unrealistic expectations of the climax that I’ve worked in healthcare for 10 years. I tried, I really did, to give allowances to the situation at large but I just couldn’t.
Also I REALLY didn’t need the imagery of Bloom helping Logan pee (which is whatever, NBD) and then taking his ‘dripping cock’ into his mouth (WTF). Please. Never again.
Parting thought: Dr. Simms is creepy and weird, keep your eyes on that one.
*I received an advanced copy from in exchange for my honest review*
It probably doesn’t help with my unrealistic expectations of the climax that I’ve worked in healthcare for 10 years. I tried, I really did, to give allowances to the situation at large but I just couldn’t.
Also I REALLY didn’t need the imagery of Bloom helping Logan pee (which is whatever, NBD) and then taking his ‘dripping cock’ into his mouth (WTF). Please. Never again.
Parting thought: Dr. Simms is creepy and weird, keep your eyes on that one.
*I received an advanced copy from in exchange for my honest review*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2025
I loved Bloom so much. He’s my favorite brand of unhinged weirdo, and he must be protected at all costs.
May 12, 2024
4,5 gwiazdki
Odjęłam pół gwiazdki, bo jestem wredna i tyle. Autorka tak długo opóźniała i przekładała wydanie tego tomu, aż w końcu zdecydowała się na podzielenie go. I na drugi tom musimy jeszcze czekać. Widać, że trzeba czymś przyciągnąć ludzi do Patreona.
Ale pokochałam Blooma od pierwszego momentu, więc z ogromną przyjemnością sięgnęłam po jego historię. I nie zawiodłam się.
Wiadomo, że bohaterowie są OTT i na pewne rzeczy trzeba przymknąć oko, ale mimo wszystko dobrze mi się czyta tę serię.
Odjęłam pół gwiazdki, bo jestem wredna i tyle. Autorka tak długo opóźniała i przekładała wydanie tego tomu, aż w końcu zdecydowała się na podzielenie go. I na drugi tom musimy jeszcze czekać. Widać, że trzeba czymś przyciągnąć ludzi do Patreona.
Ale pokochałam Blooma od pierwszego momentu, więc z ogromną przyjemnością sięgnęłam po jego historię. I nie zawiodłam się.
Wiadomo, że bohaterowie są OTT i na pewne rzeczy trzeba przymknąć oko, ale mimo wszystko dobrze mi się czyta tę serię.
June 16, 2024
Bloom and Logan
I didn’t expect to fall in love with Bloom like I did. He seemed so hard on the exterior but underneath it all, he was a vulnerable and scared man. I’m so glad the Logan finally did right by him.
I’m gonna be honest and say I haven’t read a single other Smokey Vale story, even though it was recommended. While there were a few details here and there, incidents in the past that were alluded to, I never really felt lost. It was easy to get caught up in Bloom and Logan’s story.
There is a lot going on here and we don’t even get the full story of Logan. I understand why Holmes had to break the book up. Between Bloom’s past and him learning how to navigate personal relationships, that was a whole book itself. The next book will give us more about Logan and I simultaneously look forward to and dread it. I fear it will take Logan away from Bloom.
This was a really good read. I loved the awkwardness of Bloom. He was so adorable and scary at the same time. And Logan was so gentle with him after he finally gave in. Do I care that the relationship is terribly unhealthy? Nope. In fact, I can’t wait to read more.
I didn’t expect to fall in love with Bloom like I did. He seemed so hard on the exterior but underneath it all, he was a vulnerable and scared man. I’m so glad the Logan finally did right by him.
I’m gonna be honest and say I haven’t read a single other Smokey Vale story, even though it was recommended. While there were a few details here and there, incidents in the past that were alluded to, I never really felt lost. It was easy to get caught up in Bloom and Logan’s story.
There is a lot going on here and we don’t even get the full story of Logan. I understand why Holmes had to break the book up. Between Bloom’s past and him learning how to navigate personal relationships, that was a whole book itself. The next book will give us more about Logan and I simultaneously look forward to and dread it. I fear it will take Logan away from Bloom.
This was a really good read. I loved the awkwardness of Bloom. He was so adorable and scary at the same time. And Logan was so gentle with him after he finally gave in. Do I care that the relationship is terribly unhealthy? Nope. In fact, I can’t wait to read more.
May 19, 2024
I can't believe we have to wait until November for the second book! Ughhh
This is a great read! One of my favorites so far from Gianni Holmes if not my absolute favorite of this authors.
Bloom and Dr Collier's story is incredible! This is the third in series so it won't make complete sense if you don't read book 1 and book 2 first. They're excellent reads so it's not a hardship.
This is a great read! One of my favorites so far from Gianni Holmes if not my absolute favorite of this authors.
Bloom and Dr Collier's story is incredible! This is the third in series so it won't make complete sense if you don't read book 1 and book 2 first. They're excellent reads so it's not a hardship.
May 15, 2024
Dr. Collier and Bloom have my heart for ETERNITY.
ALL THE STARS!!!
ALL THE STARS!!!
May 13, 2024
Wow!! I was hesitant to read Bloom's book because I thought he would be exhausting, but wow this was top notch! Very, very well done. Review to follow
June 13, 2024
Note to self: Don't give this author any more chances. I wish I remembered what made me try this.
I gave this three stars because I finished it, but honestly the whole thing is really more two to two and a half stars.
I was looking for the book version of an action movie, and I got that, but really, it could have been so much better. The quality of the writing is just not good; the dialog is often cringy, and the rest is just sub-par. Plus, the whole thing was just so ridiculously unbelievable, especially the last few chapters, which jumped off the ledge at top speed. I never really cared about either of the MCs because they are pretty much caricatures, which is sad because they started out pretty good, but at some point they just stopped being anything resembling real. Every single reaction to anything was at the absolute top level of overreaction and it would often switch within a sentence or two. I'm not even getting into how much help Bloom still needs (because, of course, his therapist just wanted to use him) or how unhealthy the relationship was.
Not my author. I'm not made for stupid levels of unhinged scenarios and outcomes.
I gave this three stars because I finished it, but honestly the whole thing is really more two to two and a half stars.
I was looking for the book version of an action movie, and I got that, but really, it could have been so much better. The quality of the writing is just not good; the dialog is often cringy, and the rest is just sub-par. Plus, the whole thing was just so ridiculously unbelievable, especially the last few chapters, which jumped off the ledge at top speed. I never really cared about either of the MCs because they are pretty much caricatures, which is sad because they started out pretty good, but at some point they just stopped being anything resembling real. Every single reaction to anything was at the absolute top level of overreaction and it would often switch within a sentence or two. I'm not even getting into how much help Bloom still needs (because, of course, his therapist just wanted to use him) or how unhealthy the relationship was.
Not my author. I'm not made for stupid levels of unhinged scenarios and outcomes.
Read
August 24, 2025one day i'll stand before god and i'll have to explain why i dnf'd beartown and six of crows but not this.
May 21, 2024
Bloom: Part One is the third book in The Smoky Vale Aliance series by Gianni Holmes and the first part of Bloom's story. After reading Bay I was excited to read Bloom and his doctor's story. I loved their story. It was so good and very well written. I can't wait for book 2.
January 30, 2025
I knew even before I read this that was going to love Bloom’s story and I was disappointed. I was counting down days until the release of book 2 before I read this.
Gianni Holmes never disappoints.🥰
Gianni Holmes never disappoints.🥰
May 15, 2024
oh sweet bloom
Holy smokes this was everything I needed in a biker book. And Bloom, I’ve been waiting for your story. This is a stand alone but I would at least read Bays story (book 1) to see the moment when Bloom and Dr. C meet.
This was amazing. We dive deeper Bloom. When we first meet him he’s the one who Matt is incredibly jealous of. The group is rather protective of bloom and we find out why in this book. While they are protective Bloom can handle himself and he did with the Doc. It was cool watching Bloom get under Docs skin and then to watch them fall in love. Doc has a past he’s running from and we see peaks of it through the story. It all comes crashing as we come to the end of this story. I can’t wait for the next book. What has doc running? And will he leave bloom or stay. The writing was amazing. The smexy was HAWT, doc be kinky, and the side character are great. The gang is back and it’s cool seeing them in love in their lives.
Holy smokes this was everything I needed in a biker book. And Bloom, I’ve been waiting for your story. This is a stand alone but I would at least read Bays story (book 1) to see the moment when Bloom and Dr. C meet.
This was amazing. We dive deeper Bloom. When we first meet him he’s the one who Matt is incredibly jealous of. The group is rather protective of bloom and we find out why in this book. While they are protective Bloom can handle himself and he did with the Doc. It was cool watching Bloom get under Docs skin and then to watch them fall in love. Doc has a past he’s running from and we see peaks of it through the story. It all comes crashing as we come to the end of this story. I can’t wait for the next book. What has doc running? And will he leave bloom or stay. The writing was amazing. The smexy was HAWT, doc be kinky, and the side character are great. The gang is back and it’s cool seeing them in love in their lives.
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