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Carter Brothers #3
Thirst Trap
Toxic: very harmful or unpleasant in an invasive or sinister way.
One word. Two consonants. Five letters. Two people.
Quinn James Carter met Solei Shayne Rodriguez his senior year of high school.
At first, he tried to stay away from her. But the heart wants what the heart wants, and if there were two people in this world who were meant to be together, it was Shayne and him.
Sadly, life doesn’t work out like you plan.
A single, brash, knee-jerk reaction has them both deciding that their relationship is never going to work. A cop and a notorious criminal’s sister can’t have a happily ever after, can they?
Consequently, they go their separate ways.
They live their lives.
And time after time, they come right back to each other, giving the term ‘toxic relationship’ a new meaning.
Anger, jealousy, hurt, and pain run hand in hand with their persistent need to stay in each other’s lives, no matter if it’s in a healthy way or not.
But eventually, time catches up to them.
Fate decides their path for them, and one of them has to wind up nearly dead for them to admit that they can make it work if they want to. They only have to try.
One word. Two consonants. Five letters. Two people.
Quinn James Carter met Solei Shayne Rodriguez his senior year of high school.
At first, he tried to stay away from her. But the heart wants what the heart wants, and if there were two people in this world who were meant to be together, it was Shayne and him.
Sadly, life doesn’t work out like you plan.
A single, brash, knee-jerk reaction has them both deciding that their relationship is never going to work. A cop and a notorious criminal’s sister can’t have a happily ever after, can they?
Consequently, they go their separate ways.
They live their lives.
And time after time, they come right back to each other, giving the term ‘toxic relationship’ a new meaning.
Anger, jealousy, hurt, and pain run hand in hand with their persistent need to stay in each other’s lives, no matter if it’s in a healthy way or not.
But eventually, time catches up to them.
Fate decides their path for them, and one of them has to wind up nearly dead for them to admit that they can make it work if they want to. They only have to try.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2024
176 people are currently reading
395 people want to read
About the author
Lani Lynn Vale
163 books7,276 followersLani Lynn Vale is married to the love of her life that she met in high school. She fell in love with him because he was wearing baseball pants. Ten years later they have three perfectly crazy children and a cat named Demon who likes to wake her up at ungodly times in the night. They live in the greatest state in the world, Texas. She writes contemporary and romantic suspense, and has a love for all things romance. You can find Lani in front of her computer writing away in her fictional characters world...that is until her husband and kids demand sustenance in the form of food and drink.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
July 13, 2024
4.5 stars!
Goodness,did LLV throw everything at this heroine or what!
This second chance romance was a gut clencher!
This heroine went thru a devastating breakup when she and the hero were young,getting together only for quickies thruout the years till finally when you think they are on the brink of finally finding some happiness,the unhinged wannabe ow physically assaults the heroine,she loses their baby,gets attacked again by the crazy woman,suffer a broken rib and punctured lung,and last but not least,suffers from depression.She was also a victim of a mass shooting in a movie theater, can anything else happen to this woman!I mean really LLV,I am waiting on the day that any one of your heros/ heroines have no afflictions or maladies!
This was a roller coaster of epic proportions of a read.If only these 2 were locked in a room together to just talk about their breakup and problems.Her brother being a notorious gang leader and him and his family all being in law enforcement was what broke them in the first place,not the all consuming love the had for each other.
I am loving this new series by LLV,and I can't wait for the next ott drama filled entry.
Goodness,did LLV throw everything at this heroine or what!
This second chance romance was a gut clencher!
This heroine went thru a devastating breakup when she and the hero were young,getting together only for quickies thruout the years till finally when you think they are on the brink of finally finding some happiness,the unhinged wannabe ow physically assaults the heroine,she loses their baby,gets attacked again by the crazy woman,suffer a broken rib and punctured lung,and last but not least,suffers from depression.She was also a victim of a mass shooting in a movie theater, can anything else happen to this woman!I mean really LLV,I am waiting on the day that any one of your heros/ heroines have no afflictions or maladies!
This was a roller coaster of epic proportions of a read.If only these 2 were locked in a room together to just talk about their breakup and problems.Her brother being a notorious gang leader and him and his family all being in law enforcement was what broke them in the first place,not the all consuming love the had for each other.
I am loving this new series by LLV,and I can't wait for the next ott drama filled entry.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2024
Damn what a roller-coaster of a ride. This was amazing. Not together then together it was amazing. I can't wait for the next book.
July 13, 2024
I didn’t care for this one. I know she was celibate during all this time only being with the H but was he? I dont recall reading anything about him. The fact that he couldn’t get rid of Elliotte especially after the phone call was outrageous. She’d have been gone. Plus she was all over him. How obtuse was he to not see she wanted him with her not Shayne?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2024
Shayne and Quinn❤️💔❤️🩹
Thirst Trap is the next book in the Carter brothers series and I just couldn’t resist reading, even though I have another book due tomorrow🙈
Suffice to say, I loved it❣️As per normal LLV has a way with words and suspense and spinning such intense scenes, that they stick with you for years to come. I’m excited to read Auden’s story next and find out all about the baker that has him so in knots🤩
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review🥰
Thirst Trap is the next book in the Carter brothers series and I just couldn’t resist reading, even though I have another book due tomorrow🙈
Suffice to say, I loved it❣️As per normal LLV has a way with words and suspense and spinning such intense scenes, that they stick with you for years to come. I’m excited to read Auden’s story next and find out all about the baker that has him so in knots🤩
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review🥰
July 9, 2024
Holy Crap!!
This was a wild rollercoaster ride of emotions spanning years of ups and downs. Shayne and Quinn love each other but circumstances have driven them apart.
“You were meant to be mine,” I said instead. “You’ve always been mine.
We got hints of this story in the first two books and oh boy it didn’t disappoint at all. I literally couldn’t put it down it was that good.
I’m so looking forward to more Carter Brothers. Gimme now!!
This was a wild rollercoaster ride of emotions spanning years of ups and downs. Shayne and Quinn love each other but circumstances have driven them apart.
“You were meant to be mine,” I said instead. “You’ve always been mine.
We got hints of this story in the first two books and oh boy it didn’t disappoint at all. I literally couldn’t put it down it was that good.
I’m so looking forward to more Carter Brothers. Gimme now!!
July 3, 2024
Quinn and Shayne's story is so sad! The second chance is a hard fight for them. Shayne's battle with depression is real and visceral. And, just when you think things are getting better, I looked at my book and realized there were too many pages left. This was a heart wrenching! But, I loved the story!
August 10, 2024
Shayne and Quinn were high school sweethearts and appeared to be soulmates. Quinn does something really dumb that causes both of their lives to change paths pretty quickly. Even though he tries to apologize and get them back on track, Shayne rebuffs him at every turn. I will say both of them got real old, real quick. She had her loyalties kind of screwed up and didn't even appear to try and get her life to change for the better. Her constant blaming of Quinn got old. Their secret trysts were not endearing to me. It made me question what both of them were thinking. The whole Elliette storyline was just not even necessary. They had enough issues without throwing that in to make the book OTT on the drama. I felt like LLV threw a lot at this book and didn't quite know what to do with it all. What Shayne's brother does at the end was a nice touch. It saved the book for me.
March 21, 2025
Why are these books sooooo good?!
Everything from plot to character development is just perfect!
Everything from plot to character development is just perfect!
July 10, 2024
I found this one to be frustrating and that was due to the couple. Quinn pissed me off with his breaking up with Shayne at the start, yet still wanted her. I get that coming from a cop family and becoming a cop yourself, makes dating a gang member's sister awkward, but you knew who she was before you started something and the way he broke up with her and treated her after was cruel. Shayne's totally not off the hook either because after the break up things moved to hook up sex, with her being the one to set the tone. That really wasn't good for her mental health, it didn't allow a clean break and for either of them to try to move on.
Then we get to the present and it's more of Quinn finally wanted Shayne, still hating her brother, but willing to deal with things in his own way. That part drove me nuts, then I started cackling like a witch when we find out the gang brother knew what was going on and did his best to help Quinn along with the plan. It was great to see Quinn so shocked.
Through all of this it seemed like Shayne was the one that kept getting jerked around and hurt. I so wanted to reach through the page at the one woman who for years was an obstacle and Quinn couldn't see it. It took this evil bitch doing horrific things before Quinn could really see the evil. The one good thing about the book is that she ended up getting hers.
By the end of the book, I was glad to things worked out, but also glad to be done with it too.
Then we get to the present and it's more of Quinn finally wanted Shayne, still hating her brother, but willing to deal with things in his own way. That part drove me nuts, then I started cackling like a witch when we find out the gang brother knew what was going on and did his best to help Quinn along with the plan. It was great to see Quinn so shocked.
Through all of this it seemed like Shayne was the one that kept getting jerked around and hurt. I so wanted to reach through the page at the one woman who for years was an obstacle and Quinn couldn't see it. It took this evil bitch doing horrific things before Quinn could really see the evil. The one good thing about the book is that she ended up getting hers.
By the end of the book, I was glad to things worked out, but also glad to be done with it too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2025
I read this book after book 4 because the blurb uninterested me. As usual, the blurb didn't really match the book. We have yet another 2nd chance at love after misunderstandings of what he meant when he broke up with her in their teenage years. It's distressing that this is a constant refrain in the plots for LLV where the actions between the times doesn't match up with the angst supposed separation (even though they'd been having booty calls for all those years WITHOUT talking I guess)
On the positive side, we were given quite a few dramatic moments (maybe even too many violent moments) and the interchanges between her and the family was a very big positive. It would also be nice if one of these men would find a woman who has a good family too.
Another entertaining read even if the last thing with the parachute was beyond farfetched.
Elliette was a ninja apparently! cutting the lines on the parachute without anyone noticing and getting inside a police officers house without anyone catching her.
The nice wrap up with brother's children to give her and Quinn a ready-made family instead of having to go the normal route of adoption/surrogacy was another spin we've seen in the LLV repetoire which would have been nice to see a different type of happy ever after.
Read # 2 - still feel the same about this book as my previous review. Sometimes my feelings will change when I do a reread but not with this one.
On the positive side, we were given quite a few dramatic moments (maybe even too many violent moments) and the interchanges between her and the family was a very big positive. It would also be nice if one of these men would find a woman who has a good family too.
Another entertaining read even if the last thing with the parachute was beyond farfetched.
Elliette was a ninja apparently! cutting the lines on the parachute without anyone noticing and getting inside a police officers house without anyone catching her.
The nice wrap up with brother's children to give her and Quinn a ready-made family instead of having to go the normal route of adoption/surrogacy was another spin we've seen in the LLV repetoire which would have been nice to see a different type of happy ever after.
Read # 2 - still feel the same about this book as my previous review. Sometimes my feelings will change when I do a reread but not with this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2024
French & English reviews
Attention aux triggers, je vous conseille de vous renseigner avant de lire ce livre qui aborde des sujets parfois difficiles !
Une romance de la seconde chance que j'attendais avec impatience et que j'ai dévoré !
Avec tous les petits aperçus qu'on avait de la relation tumultueuse de Shayne et Quinn, j'étais hyper curieuse de savoir ce qui avait pu se passer entre eux ... Et leur histoire m'a BRISEE le coeur !
On a tous les ingrédients pour une romance de la seconde chance (ou même de la troisième, de la quatrième et de la cinquième ><) sur plusieurs années et j'ai dévoré chaque drama, chaque rebondissement et chaque moment horrible (j'avais tellement envie de rentrer dans le livre pour prendre Shayne dans mes bras et mettre des coups à Quinn !) !
Je dois reconnaitre que pour moi Quinn est en grande partie responsable de tous les trucs horribles (notamment l'histoire avec Elliette qu'il aurait TELLEMENT dû virer de sa vie plus tôt !) mais au moins il en est conscient ce qui fait que j'ai pu lui pardonner son comportement de crétin !
Bref, une romance de la seconde chance forte en drama et terriblement triste mais que j'ai lu avec plaisir !
PS : j'ai TELLEMENT hâte d'avoir le livre avec Maven, la fille du chef de la police !
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Be careful of triggers, I advise you to find out before reading this book which addresses sometimes difficult subjects !
A second chance romance that I was impatiently waiting for and that I devoured !
With all the little glimpses we had of Shayne and Quinn's tumultuous relationship, I was super curious to know what could have happened between them ... And their story BROKE my heart !
We have all the ingredients for a second chance romance (or even third, fourth and fifth ><) over several years and I devoured every drama, every twist and turn and every horrible moment (I so wanted to go into the book to hug Shayne and punch Quinn !) !
I have to admit that for me Quinn is largely responsible for all the horrible things (especially the story with Elliette that he SO should have gotten out of his life sooner !) but at least he is aware of it which means that I was able to forgive him for his idiotic behavior !
In short, a second chance romance strong in drama and terribly sad but which I read with pleasure !
PS: I'm SO excited to get the book with Maven, the police chief's daughter !
Attention aux triggers, je vous conseille de vous renseigner avant de lire ce livre qui aborde des sujets parfois difficiles !
Une romance de la seconde chance que j'attendais avec impatience et que j'ai dévoré !
Avec tous les petits aperçus qu'on avait de la relation tumultueuse de Shayne et Quinn, j'étais hyper curieuse de savoir ce qui avait pu se passer entre eux ... Et leur histoire m'a BRISEE le coeur !
On a tous les ingrédients pour une romance de la seconde chance (ou même de la troisième, de la quatrième et de la cinquième ><) sur plusieurs années et j'ai dévoré chaque drama, chaque rebondissement et chaque moment horrible (j'avais tellement envie de rentrer dans le livre pour prendre Shayne dans mes bras et mettre des coups à Quinn !) !
Je dois reconnaitre que pour moi Quinn est en grande partie responsable de tous les trucs horribles (notamment l'histoire avec Elliette qu'il aurait TELLEMENT dû virer de sa vie plus tôt !) mais au moins il en est conscient ce qui fait que j'ai pu lui pardonner son comportement de crétin !
Bref, une romance de la seconde chance forte en drama et terriblement triste mais que j'ai lu avec plaisir !
PS : j'ai TELLEMENT hâte d'avoir le livre avec Maven, la fille du chef de la police !
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Be careful of triggers, I advise you to find out before reading this book which addresses sometimes difficult subjects !
A second chance romance that I was impatiently waiting for and that I devoured !
With all the little glimpses we had of Shayne and Quinn's tumultuous relationship, I was super curious to know what could have happened between them ... And their story BROKE my heart !
We have all the ingredients for a second chance romance (or even third, fourth and fifth ><) over several years and I devoured every drama, every twist and turn and every horrible moment (I so wanted to go into the book to hug Shayne and punch Quinn !) !
I have to admit that for me Quinn is largely responsible for all the horrible things (especially the story with Elliette that he SO should have gotten out of his life sooner !) but at least he is aware of it which means that I was able to forgive him for his idiotic behavior !
In short, a second chance romance strong in drama and terribly sad but which I read with pleasure !
PS: I'm SO excited to get the book with Maven, the police chief's daughter !
February 15, 2025
Ok I was skeptical for Quinn and Shayne’s book and i will say it was definitely a roller coaster of a book but a good one.
We start out with Quinn and Shayne in high school dating and in love. We know that Quinn’s whole family is affiliated with the DPD because both his parents are cops. Then there’s Shayne whose brother is actually the head of a very serious gang. This obviously brings some tension between them and Quinn stupidly decided to break up with Shayne to make her leave her brother. Of course that’s not how it happens and then end up separating but both still being very hung up on each other. They don’t talk and try to avoid the other as much as they can.
Now we fast forward and a bunch of stuff happens good and bad. So basically Shaynes grandma sadly passes away and that is Quinn gets his head out of his butt and realizes that he’s miss rebel without each other and starts fighting for them. So he does and it’s going good but sadly though just as they’re about to mend everything something goes down with the gang and the DPD break into her house because that is where her brothers been running his drugs out of. During that Quinn’s ‘girl best friend’ hurts her and kicks her so bad that Shayne had to go to the hospital. And this is where my heart broke. At the hospital they find out that not only does Shayne have a bunch of issues with her head and abdomen but because of the trauma she miscarried he baby that they didn’t even know they had. And you can guess that this broke both of them. From here Shayne spirals but Quinn is there to help her and they basically grow with each ither.
This book was so emotional. It broke my heart all of the things Shayne had to go through and I admire how strong she was. I loved how supportive Quinn was and protective of her.
Overall I really liked this book and it broke and warmed my heart at the same time.
4.21/🍿🏠🏥🚁⛽️
We start out with Quinn and Shayne in high school dating and in love. We know that Quinn’s whole family is affiliated with the DPD because both his parents are cops. Then there’s Shayne whose brother is actually the head of a very serious gang. This obviously brings some tension between them and Quinn stupidly decided to break up with Shayne to make her leave her brother. Of course that’s not how it happens and then end up separating but both still being very hung up on each other. They don’t talk and try to avoid the other as much as they can.
Now we fast forward and a bunch of stuff happens good and bad. So basically Shaynes grandma sadly passes away and that is Quinn gets his head out of his butt and realizes that he’s miss rebel without each other and starts fighting for them. So he does and it’s going good but sadly though just as they’re about to mend everything something goes down with the gang and the DPD break into her house because that is where her brothers been running his drugs out of. During that Quinn’s ‘girl best friend’ hurts her and kicks her so bad that Shayne had to go to the hospital. And this is where my heart broke. At the hospital they find out that not only does Shayne have a bunch of issues with her head and abdomen but because of the trauma she miscarried he baby that they didn’t even know they had. And you can guess that this broke both of them. From here Shayne spirals but Quinn is there to help her and they basically grow with each ither.
This book was so emotional. It broke my heart all of the things Shayne had to go through and I admire how strong she was. I loved how supportive Quinn was and protective of her.
Overall I really liked this book and it broke and warmed my heart at the same time.
4.21/🍿🏠🏥🚁⛽️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2024
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the story of Shanye and Quinn. Thee two have had a relationship off and over spanning many years. I will go ahead and tell you that I cried many a tear reading this book. I'd have to lay it down and walk away from it for a little bit and then pick it back up again. These two characters are from such different worlds. He is from a law enforcement family and her brother is the leader of the local town gang. Despite this, they fell in love in high school and worked too hard to keep their families and things going on separate. But a time came when they no longer could. Quinn made one decision that changed the course of their lives and affects everything. So much so it affected Shayne's career and made other relationship virtually impossible. Now they ignore each other, hook up, and go right back to ignoring each other again. There is a lot going on in this book and I don't want to say anything else and give something away.
I will tell you that your going to love these two. Shayne likes to walk on the wild side of life. She is fearless, and gosh I adored the way she loved her Nona more than anything else in the world. She truly is a girl that you would root for and love to be friends with. Quinn is such a good person. He is really good at his job. I think they two were perfect for each there no matter what they went through in life. Filled with twists and turns and moments that will have you one the edge of your seat. This was a book I really loved reading.
This is the story of Shanye and Quinn. Thee two have had a relationship off and over spanning many years. I will go ahead and tell you that I cried many a tear reading this book. I'd have to lay it down and walk away from it for a little bit and then pick it back up again. These two characters are from such different worlds. He is from a law enforcement family and her brother is the leader of the local town gang. Despite this, they fell in love in high school and worked too hard to keep their families and things going on separate. But a time came when they no longer could. Quinn made one decision that changed the course of their lives and affects everything. So much so it affected Shayne's career and made other relationship virtually impossible. Now they ignore each other, hook up, and go right back to ignoring each other again. There is a lot going on in this book and I don't want to say anything else and give something away.
I will tell you that your going to love these two. Shayne likes to walk on the wild side of life. She is fearless, and gosh I adored the way she loved her Nona more than anything else in the world. She truly is a girl that you would root for and love to be friends with. Quinn is such a good person. He is really good at his job. I think they two were perfect for each there no matter what they went through in life. Filled with twists and turns and moments that will have you one the edge of your seat. This was a book I really loved reading.
July 9, 2024
Before I started reading this I discovered that “ thirst trap” is an actual thing ! So I had different expectations going into this read but the terminology has nothing g to do with this book and I was really a spoiled little bibliophile while getting lost in this read …..
So Shayne and Quinn have been a thing since forever but they’re from 2 very different worlds , his family is law enforcement whereas hers is gang related but before you play judge her brother had a very strong motivation to stay and not get away from the violence and he tried to protect her and their nonna from their activities as much as he could and he protected an undercover cop and nobody , including the cop knew so he’s not all bad 🤗
Shayne lives on the wild side and she’s no fear and I love that she loves her nonna ,and popcorn ! She’s brave , she’s real , she loves hard and she’s really not had it easy but she roses like a Phoenix !
Quinn is a good cop , a great brother and an all out good guy and he adores Shayne and yes sometimes he made some daft decisions but at the heart of it he knows she is his and he is hers and together they’re perfect 😍
Sheepers there were times I had to bite into my knuckles not to scream out loud with fear , there were some seriously terrifying moments but I walked away with one word in my heart “family”this really was a brilliant read and I’d share it far and wide !
So Shayne and Quinn have been a thing since forever but they’re from 2 very different worlds , his family is law enforcement whereas hers is gang related but before you play judge her brother had a very strong motivation to stay and not get away from the violence and he tried to protect her and their nonna from their activities as much as he could and he protected an undercover cop and nobody , including the cop knew so he’s not all bad 🤗
Shayne lives on the wild side and she’s no fear and I love that she loves her nonna ,and popcorn ! She’s brave , she’s real , she loves hard and she’s really not had it easy but she roses like a Phoenix !
Quinn is a good cop , a great brother and an all out good guy and he adores Shayne and yes sometimes he made some daft decisions but at the heart of it he knows she is his and he is hers and together they’re perfect 😍
Sheepers there were times I had to bite into my knuckles not to scream out loud with fear , there were some seriously terrifying moments but I walked away with one word in my heart “family”this really was a brilliant read and I’d share it far and wide !
June 28, 2024
Continuing to love the Carter brothers! I was so excited that we finally got Shayne and Quinn’s story after getting to know them a little bit in Ande’s story, and LLV did not disappoint in the epic-ness of their story. Shayne and Quinn fell in love in high school, which was shocking to everyone because Quinn comes from a family of cops and Shayne’s brother is the head of the town’s gang, but they kept those things separate from their relationship until they couldn’t any longer. Quinn makes a rash decision that changes the course of their lives forever, including Shayne’s career and both of them being able to have relationships beyond theirs. As the years pass, they essentially only see each other to hookup and go back to ignoring each other, until they can’t do that any longer. I love that the Carter family was actually more protective over Shayne than their own family member, and my heart broke for Shayne regarding her brother and the gang. In the end, these two get the most perfect HEA that they can get, including the shock that her brother provides in the form of Shayne and Quinn’s future. I can’t wait for the next installment of this series; I truly can’t get enough of LLV’s books!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
June 29, 2024
Thirst Trap by Lani Lynn Vale is book 3 in the Carter Brothers series and focuses on the characters Quinn Carter and Solei Shayne Rodriguez. Two characters who were always meant to be together, but when life keeps throwing them curveballs and feelings are hurt, it becomes more of a toxic relationship, with no happily ever after in sight or at least that’s what you think. Quinn and Shayne are meant to be together.
I love that we follow the story from them being together to life getting in the way, to Quinn proving that he will do anything to be with Shayne, even when Shayne feels like she is broken. There were a lot of emotions in this book from both characters and you get where both of them are coming from and what they are feeling. I particularly like how honest Quinn’s family are with him and some of the decisions he has made. He definitely needed to fight for Shayne and what they had.
Overall, an emotional rollercoaster of a story with some great characters, a great storyline and a great addition to the series.
ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review. All opinions are my own. 😊
More of my reviews can be found on my blog: http://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
I love that we follow the story from them being together to life getting in the way, to Quinn proving that he will do anything to be with Shayne, even when Shayne feels like she is broken. There were a lot of emotions in this book from both characters and you get where both of them are coming from and what they are feeling. I particularly like how honest Quinn’s family are with him and some of the decisions he has made. He definitely needed to fight for Shayne and what they had.
Overall, an emotional rollercoaster of a story with some great characters, a great storyline and a great addition to the series.
ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review. All opinions are my own. 😊
More of my reviews can be found on my blog: http://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
July 3, 2024
Thirst Trap came in hot with the feelings and boy did I feel them HARD.
Shayne has not had an easy life and that is only made harder by her brother. My girl was strong in her convictions though. She stood tall despite the prejudice against her for things she had no control over. She was loyal to a fault. Loving and an all round really great human who did not deserve the bull she got.
Quinn. My man went and fucked up not once but more than a few times. He allowed himself to be strayed by others. Their opinions, Their prejudice. Despite knowing Shayne in and out. Frankly I wanted to throttle him but I also got it. The pain. The lonely. The pent up frustration. He's outwardly a hard man but sweet to his core.
They frustrated me to no end. However they are so meant to be. It was equally heart breaking and rewarding. Their journey was not easy. Not even a little bit. But for them to get that HEA, it had to be. Now could some characters never been born? I prayed for that.. Well.. just one really. But the others.. The Carter family? PERFECTION. IOVETHEMALL.
Costas .. It actually made me so fucking sad. I really would love his book. I want his story, his thoughts ... his world.
Shayne has not had an easy life and that is only made harder by her brother. My girl was strong in her convictions though. She stood tall despite the prejudice against her for things she had no control over. She was loyal to a fault. Loving and an all round really great human who did not deserve the bull she got.
Quinn. My man went and fucked up not once but more than a few times. He allowed himself to be strayed by others. Their opinions, Their prejudice. Despite knowing Shayne in and out. Frankly I wanted to throttle him but I also got it. The pain. The lonely. The pent up frustration. He's outwardly a hard man but sweet to his core.
They frustrated me to no end. However they are so meant to be. It was equally heart breaking and rewarding. Their journey was not easy. Not even a little bit. But for them to get that HEA, it had to be. Now could some characters never been born? I prayed for that.. Well.. just one really. But the others.. The Carter family? PERFECTION. IOVETHEMALL.
Costas .. It actually made me so fucking sad. I really would love his book. I want his story, his thoughts ... his world.
July 12, 2024
I've really enjoyed this series of the Carter brothers, but Quinn and Shayne are by far the best couple! The "best friend" of Quinn, Elliette, she can take a flying leap! I didn't like her from the moment she was introduced as his "best friend" from the Police Academy. She's the typical jealous partner that wants more than her partner wants. Unlike others from past books, Quinn is not SO blinded by her innocent friendship as others in the past books and series are. He does attempt to shut down her jealous acts before she goes crazy on Shayne. Quinn and Shayne have you rooting for them from the first chapter. Quinn does make the reader unhappy when he ends it with Shayne without plausible explanation and then expects her to still be "his". While this is typical Alpha-hole behavior, it is annoying. Shayne works hard a surviving and overcoming her brother's choice to join and lead a gang. Your heart will break when you learn of why she cannot have children. Something that just grabs your heart and twists it in pain for her. Quinn and Shayne are just meant to be. I also think his mom, fondly called "Mamasauce" is sassy, quick with the humor, and no nonsense kind of momma, and I love it! She stole the show quite often! I highly recommend this book and the others in the series!
July 13, 2024
💭 “I was hers, irrevocably and inconceivably. Body, heart, and soul, I belonged to her. I just needed her to admit it to herself…”
➡️ they say there is nothing so bad that it couldn't be worse, and that is so true when it comes to Shayne Rodriguez. She couldn’t catch a break from beginning to the end of the story and my only thought was “when enough is enough?”. Shayne and Quinn were each other “the ones”, but everything was against them, since when they first met when they were in school.
Quinn was destined to be a cop and she had a brother who was a gang leader, and one bad decision after another, they are broken up and having to fight during their WHOLE lives to be finally together. Pain, that’s what I felt. I love Lani’s books but her suffering through all her story was a little too much.
I could feel their love for each other with each page turned, but with every bad decision they took worse things happened to them, erase that, to her. I super wanted to be together, but at some point I wondered if that would be wise or even possible. Of course there is a happy ending, with lots o steamy moments, but with you are willing to go through a lot of heartbreaking pain, this book is for you.
➡️ they say there is nothing so bad that it couldn't be worse, and that is so true when it comes to Shayne Rodriguez. She couldn’t catch a break from beginning to the end of the story and my only thought was “when enough is enough?”. Shayne and Quinn were each other “the ones”, but everything was against them, since when they first met when they were in school.
Quinn was destined to be a cop and she had a brother who was a gang leader, and one bad decision after another, they are broken up and having to fight during their WHOLE lives to be finally together. Pain, that’s what I felt. I love Lani’s books but her suffering through all her story was a little too much.
I could feel their love for each other with each page turned, but with every bad decision they took worse things happened to them, erase that, to her. I super wanted to be together, but at some point I wondered if that would be wise or even possible. Of course there is a happy ending, with lots o steamy moments, but with you are willing to go through a lot of heartbreaking pain, this book is for you.
July 5, 2024
As usual this was another one that I read from start to end in one go. I loved Quinn and Shayne.
Shayne and Quinn fell in love when they were young. Event though their relationship was amazing, they had other issues. Shayne’s brother was the leader of a gang, Quinn’s parents were police officers, and Quinn was planning to follow in their footsteps. When Quinn finished high school he broke up with Shayne, leaving her heartbroken.
What happens next is years of being in and out of each other’s lives. Hooking up and then avoiding each other. Until something happens and they are forced to face their feelings for each other.
This was an amazing read. I loved how we followed these two from high school, through their careers and finding each other again. They had so much other influences in their lives. But Quinn had his work cut out for him. He hurt Shayne and she built up a wall so high he has to put in everything to convince her to give him another chance. I loved that he didn’t give up on her.
This was definitely an emotional overload read, but I loved all of it 😊 I cannot wait for Auden and the baker’s story 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
Shayne and Quinn fell in love when they were young. Event though their relationship was amazing, they had other issues. Shayne’s brother was the leader of a gang, Quinn’s parents were police officers, and Quinn was planning to follow in their footsteps. When Quinn finished high school he broke up with Shayne, leaving her heartbroken.
What happens next is years of being in and out of each other’s lives. Hooking up and then avoiding each other. Until something happens and they are forced to face their feelings for each other.
This was an amazing read. I loved how we followed these two from high school, through their careers and finding each other again. They had so much other influences in their lives. But Quinn had his work cut out for him. He hurt Shayne and she built up a wall so high he has to put in everything to convince her to give him another chance. I loved that he didn’t give up on her.
This was definitely an emotional overload read, but I loved all of it 😊 I cannot wait for Auden and the baker’s story 😊
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
July 14, 2024
5 They’re Meant To Be Together Stars!
Quinn and Solei are definitely not meant to be… he’s a cop and she’s the sister of the leader of one of the largest gangs in the Dallas area. Having said this, from the moment they met when they were in high school, all bets were off because their connection was beyond anything either of them have experienced.
The minute I started this book, I was captivated by this story. Quin and Solei’s journey is not easy or for the faint of heart. There are obstacles they must overcome, with his family and her family, mostly her big brother… just imagine a gang leader’s sister hanging out with an entire family of cops who don’t tolerate illegal activities.
There were moments of such intensity that I was gasping. Their emotions are so strong for each other and not wanting to disappoint those they love, they go their separate ways, but as is often the case, love wins in the end. And oh my stars, their intimate moments are sizzling in their intensity. It’s a hard fought battle for their HEA, and while it may take longer than they liked, in the end, their love wins all the battles to get there!!
Quinn and Solei are definitely not meant to be… he’s a cop and she’s the sister of the leader of one of the largest gangs in the Dallas area. Having said this, from the moment they met when they were in high school, all bets were off because their connection was beyond anything either of them have experienced.
The minute I started this book, I was captivated by this story. Quin and Solei’s journey is not easy or for the faint of heart. There are obstacles they must overcome, with his family and her family, mostly her big brother… just imagine a gang leader’s sister hanging out with an entire family of cops who don’t tolerate illegal activities.
There were moments of such intensity that I was gasping. Their emotions are so strong for each other and not wanting to disappoint those they love, they go their separate ways, but as is often the case, love wins in the end. And oh my stars, their intimate moments are sizzling in their intensity. It’s a hard fought battle for their HEA, and while it may take longer than they liked, in the end, their love wins all the battles to get there!!
July 9, 2024
Can't be with each other....
....but can't live without each other.
They are both stubborn to the point of stupidity, words are said, they cannot be taken back but they can be used to hurt and wound....again and again and again. They lose too many years and your heart breaks time and again as they punish and wound each other, repeatedly, for years. In true Carter style, when he messes up Quinn does it big and completely, but being a Carter also means he is relentless and at some point he is determined he will finally break through Shay's walls and reclaim her heart.
I read this book just after midnight, as it was released, reading through the horrors, traumas and pain in the dark, early hours with rain hammering down outside may not have been the best idea! I was left emotionally battered, bruised and shaken by the twists, turns and sheer evil of humanity. Thankfully love does conquer all, it may be dinted, damaged and fragile, but it is there and it can grow stronger, they just have to accept and embrace it.
....but can't live without each other.
They are both stubborn to the point of stupidity, words are said, they cannot be taken back but they can be used to hurt and wound....again and again and again. They lose too many years and your heart breaks time and again as they punish and wound each other, repeatedly, for years. In true Carter style, when he messes up Quinn does it big and completely, but being a Carter also means he is relentless and at some point he is determined he will finally break through Shay's walls and reclaim her heart.
I read this book just after midnight, as it was released, reading through the horrors, traumas and pain in the dark, early hours with rain hammering down outside may not have been the best idea! I was left emotionally battered, bruised and shaken by the twists, turns and sheer evil of humanity. Thankfully love does conquer all, it may be dinted, damaged and fragile, but it is there and it can grow stronger, they just have to accept and embrace it.
August 5, 2024
Quinn and Shayne were highschool sweethearts. But he wanted to be a cop like his parents and her brother was a gang leader . . . . so Quinn did what he thought he needed to do and broke them. And for years and years they continued to meet up and break one another again and again. Until finally, when Shayne couldn't play the game anymore, Quinn decided he was done playing too and was claiming her for keeps like he should have years ago.
Angst . . . So much angst.
Drama . . . Dear God. The fact that either of them is even alive is mind boggling.
Psycho . . . Yep!
Sibling Rivalry . . . All the siblings getting into each other's business a reader can handle. Not to mention a gangster brother that you’ll hate as much as you love by the end of the book.
Lots of mistakes. So many emotions. All the love and all the feels. Thirst Trap was an emotional rollercoaster that just wouldn’t quit and Lani Lynn Vale will break and batter your heart right before putting it back together again. 5 stars!
Angst . . . So much angst.
Drama . . . Dear God. The fact that either of them is even alive is mind boggling.
Psycho . . . Yep!
Sibling Rivalry . . . All the siblings getting into each other's business a reader can handle. Not to mention a gangster brother that you’ll hate as much as you love by the end of the book.
Lots of mistakes. So many emotions. All the love and all the feels. Thirst Trap was an emotional rollercoaster that just wouldn’t quit and Lani Lynn Vale will break and batter your heart right before putting it back together again. 5 stars!
July 8, 2024
I have been waiting for this story! Shayne and Quinn fell in love when they were young, despite facing significant challenges. Shayne’s brother was the leader of a gang, Quinn’s parents were police officers, and Quinn planned to follow in their footsteps. After high school, Quinn broke up with Shayne, leaving her heartbroken. Over the years, they drifted in and out of each other’s lives, alternating between hooking up and avoiding each other. Eventually, circumstances force them to confront their lingering feelings.
Their journey back to each other was filled with so many external influences that I wanted to scream! However, Quinn’s persistence was admirable. He knew hurt Shayne deeply, and that she built up a wall, but he was determined to prove himself and win her back. I loved that he never gave up on her.
This one had my emotions all over the place. I loved every moment of it and now I really can't wait for Auden and the baker.
Their journey back to each other was filled with so many external influences that I wanted to scream! However, Quinn’s persistence was admirable. He knew hurt Shayne deeply, and that she built up a wall, but he was determined to prove himself and win her back. I loved that he never gave up on her.
This one had my emotions all over the place. I loved every moment of it and now I really can't wait for Auden and the baker.
July 9, 2024
Quinn has always known that he was destined from law enforcement as it was inherited from his parents to him and all his brothers however, he also loved Shayne. They fell in love as teenagers until their very different lifestyles tore them apart so even though they were never a part of each other’s lives they were never out of it either.
Shayne loves her brother and wishes that things could be different, and he was not part of the gang, but he has always been there for him, and she loved him so when Quinn wanted her to choose, she could not. Despite the time and distance, the feelings between them never changed but with the ever-present danger their fight back to each other is far from over.
Quinn and Shayne have always belonged together however it was not easy. They take us on an emotional and suspenseful ride that is filled with love and a family that is always there for them.
Shayne loves her brother and wishes that things could be different, and he was not part of the gang, but he has always been there for him, and she loved him so when Quinn wanted her to choose, she could not. Despite the time and distance, the feelings between them never changed but with the ever-present danger their fight back to each other is far from over.
Quinn and Shayne have always belonged together however it was not easy. They take us on an emotional and suspenseful ride that is filled with love and a family that is always there for them.
July 10, 2024
Thirst Trap by Lani Lynn Vale
Carter Brother Series #3
Characters - Shayne and Quinn ❤️💔❤️🩹
Second Chance Romance! Loved it! 💖 And I’m not a huge fan of Second Chance Romance so I am glad I love this one!
Quinn and Shayne's story is incredibly touching! Their second chance is a tough battle, but I absolutely loved seeing it unfold. You can really feel Shayne's strength as she navigates everything life has thrown at her. It’s heartbreaking yet inspiring, showcasing her incredible resilience. Quinn’s determination to fight for Shayne and what they had is truly commendable. 💪
Quinn's family adds another layer to the story, offering support and some much-needed truths about his past decisions. The emotional rollercoaster of this story, combined with great characters and a captivating storyline, makes it a fantastic addition to the series. 🎢
I’m so excited for more Carter Brothers! Gimme now!! 📚❤️
Carter Brother Series #3
Characters - Shayne and Quinn ❤️💔❤️🩹
Second Chance Romance! Loved it! 💖 And I’m not a huge fan of Second Chance Romance so I am glad I love this one!
Quinn and Shayne's story is incredibly touching! Their second chance is a tough battle, but I absolutely loved seeing it unfold. You can really feel Shayne's strength as she navigates everything life has thrown at her. It’s heartbreaking yet inspiring, showcasing her incredible resilience. Quinn’s determination to fight for Shayne and what they had is truly commendable. 💪
Quinn's family adds another layer to the story, offering support and some much-needed truths about his past decisions. The emotional rollercoaster of this story, combined with great characters and a captivating storyline, makes it a fantastic addition to the series. 🎢
I’m so excited for more Carter Brothers! Gimme now!! 📚❤️
July 11, 2024
Thirst Trap is the third book in the Carter Brothers series by Lani Lynn Vale. I freaking loves these brothers and their parents! Oh, and their women. This is Quinn and Shayne's story. Their journey hasn't been easy at all. They were high school sweethearts and then it was over. Two broken hearts went on with their lives. They always seemed to find each other though. Quinn knew he made a mistake giving her up, but he was dumb and young. Now he's older and is going to get her back. But it's not going to be easy. Shayne has been in love with Quinn her whole life. She's also been mad at him for a very long time. She can't trust him or her feelings. When her life is in danger, Quinn shows up and he's not letting her get away. This is a pretty emotional story! So many things happen to them, but once they stop fighting each other and get on the same page it's all good! Shayne is strong and funny and Quinn is swoony! Can't wait for the next one!
July 9, 2024
Thirst Trap is the third novel in Lani Lynn Vale's Carter Brothers romantic suspense series, and this is Quinn Carter's book. Quinn is the last among the set of triplets including of Quincy (No Cap, the Carter Brothers series starter) and Quaid (I Can't Even, book two in the series), and his is a second chance romance. There was never a doubt in his mind that Shayne Rodriguez was his first and forever love. If you asked Shayne, however, there was a whole lot of doubt regarding that statement, no thanks to the fact that Quinn broke her heart when he was twenty and she was seventeen, reiterating it was his dream to enter the police academy, join the force, and then sign up with the Marines--a dream that clearly didn't include her. From then on, their lives diverged, only converging for brief blips in time. After all, what sort of future could they have with Shayne's older brother and only remaining family being part of a criminal gang Quinn has sworn to take down?
You know how they say hindsight is 20/20? Welp, I'm pretty sure that was a constant thought in Quinn Carter's head in the months and years following his break-up with Shayne Rodriguez. Now, if I'm being honest, I think putting their relationship on pause would have been a good idea. Where Quinn went wrong was the manner in which he did it. It was impossible to not feel bad for Shayne, but kudos to her doing what she needed to in order to get her life in order. There's a quote I heard on a podcast today reiterating that rejection is redirection (full disclosure: I googled and the original quote is from Byrant McGill), and that made me think of Shayne. There were quite a few times where Quinn said or did something, and I just shook my head in exasperation. Still, he was protective and undeniably in love with her, and they did get their happily-ever-after. Also, it needs to be said: Shayne was a standout main character and kudos to Lani Lynn Vale for making her that way. Overall, Thirst Trap was a good romantic suspense read. Four stars.
You know how they say hindsight is 20/20? Welp, I'm pretty sure that was a constant thought in Quinn Carter's head in the months and years following his break-up with Shayne Rodriguez. Now, if I'm being honest, I think putting their relationship on pause would have been a good idea. Where Quinn went wrong was the manner in which he did it. It was impossible to not feel bad for Shayne, but kudos to her doing what she needed to in order to get her life in order. There's a quote I heard on a podcast today reiterating that rejection is redirection (full disclosure: I googled and the original quote is from Byrant McGill), and that made me think of Shayne. There were quite a few times where Quinn said or did something, and I just shook my head in exasperation. Still, he was protective and undeniably in love with her, and they did get their happily-ever-after. Also, it needs to be said: Shayne was a standout main character and kudos to Lani Lynn Vale for making her that way. Overall, Thirst Trap was a good romantic suspense read. Four stars.
June 28, 2024
5 Stars
Man! I knew Shayne and Quinn’s story would be a doozy, but I didn’t expect it to bring me to tears. These two have been in love with each other since high school, but her brother and his gang affiliation has always gotten in the way. Thinking he’s doing the right thing, Quinn chooses his career over Shayne’s heart and it just dominoes from there. My heart literally broke for Shayne with every single turn of event in her life and her deep seeded love for the man that broke her in so many ways. I absolutely adored Quinn and how he desperately tried to prove to her that he wanted her in every way possible forever. I also loved that Shayne made him work for it too. Another great story in LLV’s Carter Brothers’ series. I can’t wait for more of these brothers!
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
Man! I knew Shayne and Quinn’s story would be a doozy, but I didn’t expect it to bring me to tears. These two have been in love with each other since high school, but her brother and his gang affiliation has always gotten in the way. Thinking he’s doing the right thing, Quinn chooses his career over Shayne’s heart and it just dominoes from there. My heart literally broke for Shayne with every single turn of event in her life and her deep seeded love for the man that broke her in so many ways. I absolutely adored Quinn and how he desperately tried to prove to her that he wanted her in every way possible forever. I also loved that Shayne made him work for it too. Another great story in LLV’s Carter Brothers’ series. I can’t wait for more of these brothers!
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
July 7, 2024
This is the third book in this impressive series, and this is Quinn and Shayne’s story.
These two met in senior year in high school, but Quinn broke Shayne’s heart when he broke things off, as he planned to follow in the footsteps of his family who are all police officers, while Shayne is the sister of a notorious criminal. Fate destines Quinn and Shayne to cross paths again, but he has his work cut out for him to break through the walls around her heart.
This is a well written fast paced story which an action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, drama, jealousy, anger, heartbreak, challenges, determination, humor, witty banter, second chances, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and spicy addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
These two met in senior year in high school, but Quinn broke Shayne’s heart when he broke things off, as he planned to follow in the footsteps of his family who are all police officers, while Shayne is the sister of a notorious criminal. Fate destines Quinn and Shayne to cross paths again, but he has his work cut out for him to break through the walls around her heart.
This is a well written fast paced story which an action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, drama, jealousy, anger, heartbreak, challenges, determination, humor, witty banter, second chances, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and spicy addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
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