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Blake Brothers Trilogy #2

Talent for Trouble

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Another smart, sexy contemporary romance from award-winning author Susan Sey--only with ghosts. Which is what happens when you kill characters you like. This is Will & Audrey's story. You should check it out.

She’ s in trouble…

Audrey Bing needs a hero, and desperately. But William Blake? Not a chance. He didn’t make the mess she’s in, but he definitely made it worse. And that brain of his? Pure, terrifying temptation. Unfortunately, Audrey’s in no position to refuse help. Not even from the most dangerous man she knows.

He is trouble…

William Blake is nobody’s hero. He does what it takes to protect his family, and doesn’t lose sleep over the collateral damage. Or didn’t used to. Not until Audrey blew up in his hands like a gorgeous stick of dynamite.

He’ll go to war for her…

Will can’t get Audrey out of his head. It’s not just the perfect face or those heart-stopping curves, either. It’s her wild, reckless courage. She has an impossible fight on her hands but she’s tackling it head-on, and Will respects the hell out of that. So if she needs his fists? She’ll have them. His heart, though? That’s a whole different fight.

…but can she win his heart?

313 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 26, 2014

53 people are currently reading
221 people want to read

About the author

Susan Sey

13 books117 followers
Some years back, Susan Sey gave up the glamorous world of software training to pursue a high powered career in diaper changing. Two children and millions of diapers later, she decided to branch out and started writing novels during nap time. The kids eventually gave up their naps, so now she writes when she's supposed to be doing the laundry. She currently resides in St. Paul, MN, with her wonderful husband, their charming children and a very tall pile of dirty clothes.

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5 stars
221 (28%)
4 stars
296 (38%)
3 stars
175 (22%)
2 stars
58 (7%)
1 star
15 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Profile Image for K.
413 reviews1 follower
October 17, 2014
What the ever loving flower happened to my flowering romance novel? It turned into a flowering new world spiritual "come-to-Jesus" mess of a novel. Clocks? Oceans? Fires? Bridges? Ghosts and souls? A hell of a less-than-hot mess, if you ask me. What a disappointing and confusing follow-up to a pretty good first book. What the flower?!

I'm still not quite sure what I just flowering read.
3,114 reviews26 followers
April 20, 2016
I made a lot of presumptions going into this book that were all shot to hell.

I was not expecting the story of Will and Audrey to be so erotic.
I was not expecting Will to be such a dark, troubled character (although it was in the first book, I didn't understand the seriousness of it).
I was not expecting this to become this weird paranormal poltergeist story.
I was not expecting Audrey's sister to act so much like Bel's mother (from book 1)... which explains why they get along, but not why Bel was noticably absent from most of this story.

I am not a paranormal fan, and while I'm happy there's an HEA, I cannot give this more than 3 stars given the way the last 25% of this book plays out. A mean mean ghost haunting a little girl? A former friend/colleague haunting Will? An exorcism with a psychic. It's weird stuff that's not my cup of tea at all. You are forewarned.
Profile Image for Corinne Ferdinand.
102 reviews1 follower
August 3, 2015
I tend to read reviews before starting a book, and the majority of the ones I read really put me off to starting this one. But since I had just finished the first book in the trilogy earlier in the day, I decided screw it; Im reading the sequel anyway. And you know what? I'm very glad I did!

Yeah, there was a lot of ghost stuff present but not nearly as much supernatural mumbo jumbo the reviews suggested. There was still the main love story with complex characters, typical to Sey's writing style. There was emotion and intelligence and depth to what should be just another chick lit novel. It was an enjoyable fast read that if you accept it for what it is and not get too tied up in the ghost stuff you while find a good tale of love and redemption.
Profile Image for Pam.
4,625 reviews68 followers
January 24, 2016
Talent for Trouble is book two in the Blake brothers boxed set. This is a very good book and one you can’t put down.
Audrey Bing has been in trouble before and will probably be in trouble again. However, the most trouble she has been in has been caused by Will Blake. He thinks she is a stripper, broke up her engagement and wedding, cost her her job, and she totally hates him. However, she now has a job as housekeeper for the Blake brothers, one that fits with her degree in butling. The job includes a place to stay and even expanded to include a place for her niece, Jillian to stay with her. It is an easy place to hide. Only now, her father has found them. He wants Jillian and Audrey won’t let him have her. So Audrey plans on running again. Only Will Blake has other plans.
Jillian was a normal, vivacious young girl but now has become withdrawn and will not speak. She has night terrors and screams until Audrey can calm her. Having a safe place to live is vital for her and she had it with the Blakes. Her grandfather believes his wife is causing Jillian’s problems and wants Hildy Wise to perform and exorcism to get rid of her. Audrey is adamant about not wanting Jillian exposed to this trash. Can she keep Jem Bing from getting to Audrey?
Will Blake is feeling guilty over the way he treated Audrey and now wants to help her. He can’t help that his feelings change towards her; but how can he tell her how he feels when he knows she hates him? Can he protect her and Jillian?
37 reviews
October 22, 2024
Magical realism in a good story

There was a part of the first book that felt off to me in how the characters acted (James siding with Vivi in the garden). This one had no such issue for me.

What it had was a magic to it that I really enjoyed. I had to be willing to suspend my ideas about this being solely a contemporary romance, but I really enjoyed it.

I hope Ms. Sey gives us more books! They are smartly written and interesting.
Profile Image for Taylor.
Author 1 book46 followers
September 2, 2017
Wanted to keep reading!

I flew through this book just so I could find out what the conclusion was going to be. A very very very different story and even type of story than the first book. I enjoyed this one but not as much as the first book.
Profile Image for Cheryl Shearer.
688 reviews18 followers
December 6, 2017
Brilliant sequel

Loved this book with Audrey and Will and how they worked together and with family to save Jillian and to rid themselves of ghosts from the past. Well written story and I look forward to the 3rd part.
Profile Image for Jeanette Saville.
3 reviews1 follower
May 8, 2019
One of the best books I've ever read

Seriously, you should buy and read this book! It's a beautiful love story, wonderfully written, intriguing, insightful and not at all usual.
Profile Image for Klaas Mansier.
70 reviews1 follower
July 13, 2017
I like the Blake brothers and the writers, the supernatural stuff does not belong here.
Profile Image for Christina.
492 reviews2 followers
January 6, 2018
Not a fan of the paranormal aspect but a cute story nonetheless.
Profile Image for Thomas.
42 reviews
June 26, 2020
I so enjoyed the first book in this trilogy (trilogy +?) that I leapt right into #2. Ms. Sey's command of her craft continues to amaze me and I was swept along with the second Blake brothers romance. As with the first book, it was fraught with tension, (mostly) unrequited love, denied emotions, and uncomfortable family relationships -- but this volume added a supernatural element that was both weird and convincing. I had to stop reading for about a week at one point, but once the story got past that particular crisis I was back in the flow. This is definitely a change-up from book #1 and some people won't like it because of that -- but heck, you can't please everybody so nay-sayers go home and don't read any more. Once I finish book 2.5 and 3.0, I'll be reading the rest of Ms. Sey's offerings and I can predict glowing reviews for each of them. She is a rare talent and I hope to make a small contribution to her continued success as an author.
Profile Image for Lexxi Kitty.
2,060 reviews478 followers
February 16, 2016
My second work by this author. And second in this series.

The first book in this series was a straight forward contemporary romance that was, I believe, chick-lit. This book here, despite being in the same series involving many of the same people, is something else. I’m not exactly sure who the target audience for this book might be.

I knew going in that the second book was ‘different’, so, even though I had gotten the book roughly at the same time I had gotten the first book in the series, it still took me a month and a day to try it. What was my hesitation? What do I mean by ‘not sure about the target audience’?

Before reading this book I knew it involved the Blake brothers, had the impression that it involved Will (my least favorite of the brothers, at the time), and had some mystical/spiritual/supernatural element to it. A fantasy element which was not in the first book. So this is a chick-lit contemporary romance involving fantasy elements, ghosts, possession, and the meanest, angriest man in creation (that’d be Will).

Oh, and it also would involve Audrey. This is also something of a change from the norm. Most of the time cotemporary romance series (and here I’m talking about both straight romances and lesbian romances, of which I have reading experience), move from one couple to another. Likely one of the two main people in the coupling appeared in the prior book. Then some new person would come in and boom, another coupling. Move on to next book. And someone from the second book would be the main character for the third. Repeat as desired. Which is and isn’t what happened this time. Is in that one of the two people in the ‘new’ coupling was in the prior book. Isn’t because the other part of this coupling was also in the prior book. And both knew each other. And, largely, either hated each other (Audrey hating Will) or hated themselves (Will hating himself).

So, a couple that requires two books to become a couple – both were side characters in the first book, but they didn’t have cameo roles, they had pretty significant roles. And a series that switches from normal contemporary chick-lit romance to that plus fantasy elements.

I’m someone who reads anything and anything (within reason), though I’ve found certain things I just can’t get into (Steampunk for instance). And lately I’ve found myself bouncing between genres, sometimes actually going from romances set in fantasy worlds (or just fantasy books) to contemporary romances. And yet, I was hesitant to attempt this specific book. I liked the first book. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to read another book that included Will, nor if I wanted to read one with fantasy elements.

Well, took me a month but I eventually tried the book. James and Bel, the stars of the first book, have a much reduced role in this second book, while Drew’s role is roughly at the same level as the first book. Audrey and Will took central stage.

Book starts roughly immediately after the ending of the first (I’ve some vague recollection that there might even be a certain level of overlap between the books). Audrey’s taking down Christmas Decorations, and is finding herself in a much happier place, mentally, than she expected to be. This, naturally, doesn’t last long. As a car pulls up and out steps . . . one of the people she’s been running from.

Well, it’s kind of the basis for the book so – Jem Bing has turned up and he wants his granddaughter – Jillian. It had already been established in the first book that Jillian wasn’t Audrey’s natural child, but was her sister’s child. So, some kind of custody battle, eh? It gets weirder than that. Because with Jem is Hildy – a . . . um, I forget what word is specifically used, but she’s a spirit world psychic type. And they are there to free Jem’s wife, Audrey’s mother, and Jillian’s grandmother from Jillian.

A weird, interesting story. Romance between William and Audrey was a lot better than I expected. The ghost part was weird. The alpha hole (alpha asshole hero) conversation/mention/story-line was more interesting than I’d expect. I’m not really into alpha males but this worked well for me.

December 18 2015
Profile Image for Melinda Anderson.
117 reviews4 followers
February 18, 2017
MMM...yeah:)
I absolutely love this book. William Yeats Blake starts out in the first book as a colossal jerk and I wasn't looking forward to an entire book of his douchy-ness. But he grabbed me and wouldn't let go (not that I was protesting too much). 'Cause while Will is a genius alphahole who looks delicious in a business suit, it turns out that his cutting remarks comes from a monstrous self-loathing. I fell hard for Will and his monster. Audrey is awesome too. She takes a lickin' and keeps on kickin'...Will. She loves Will and his monster too and isn't afraid of baiting him into reaction. Explosive reaction.

Intimacy! Language! Violence! This wonderful book has it all!
Profile Image for Beth.
322 reviews21 followers
October 7, 2014
4.5 stars

Warning: may contain spoilers

Talent for Trouble is the second book in the Blake Brothers series, it was just as good as the first and very similar in its background of a slightly dark romance but with a huge emphasis put on family. This is the story is Will and Audrey. I found that the relationship was jumped into very early on but if you have read the previous book you would see the development of the relationship in that story even though their interactions are all really negative, in saying that you definitely don't have to read the first book to read this one but I think you would enjoy it more if you did. I liked that the author didn't make Will suddenly all better, she kept the darker aspects of his nature and it worked really well although she didn't mention his alcoholism which I think after the big deal in the first book it would have come up in this one in some way. Talent for Trouble also had a paranormal aspect that readers won't be expecting, it was a major part of the book and quite interesting it also helped us understand Will's darker nature a little better.

Overall this was a great second book in this series and we got to see all of the characters we loved in the first and meet some new ones. So if you haven't read a book by Susan Sey before I would encourage you to pick up this series because I have found it a fantastic read.
Profile Image for Joy.
320 reviews51 followers
February 1, 2016
Some readers might give the story more stars. In my case there was just too much unbelievable elements to this story. Too much woo woo for my tastes. I'm really not much into paranormal or as I prefer to call it par-abnormal. Romance novels are as fictional as one can get. No one actually lives happily ever after. We all face an unhappy ending at some point. So give me a book with great characters with an interesting backdrop (location is as much a character as the people in a story) some conflict and stir and maybe a little shaking. That's a recipe for a good story as long as the author has a vivid imagination and can parlay that into a story for the ages. Mostly my age.
Profile Image for Samantha (WLABB).
4,253 reviews277 followers
January 26, 2015
This book surprised me. After reading the first book in the series, I was expecting more of the same. The book did begin that way, but then it took a turn. This romance was darker and more tortured. Will is a very complex, messed up guy. He has a lot more layers than James and his story does too. The interesting aspect of this story, was the paranormal twist. It struck me as trying to explain Will's psyche in a more figurative way, and gave a different dimension to the Blake Brother's story. Now, what will happen to Drew?
1,073 reviews8 followers
September 8, 2016
This was definitely a laugh out loud book. There were several scenes that just cracked me up. There was also a lot of heart. My heart broke for Will and Audrey and what they experienced growing up. I loved that it really made sense for them to want each other. The slight supernatural bend to the story didn't bother me, even though I usually stay away from any kind of fantasy story.
I'm looking forward to Drew's book!
Profile Image for Michelle.
240 reviews
April 29, 2015
Not sure what I just read? But it was good! Romance with a twist of what in the world did I just read? Will Blake is not a well liked man. He has done everything in his power to ruin Audrey. She needs a hero and has never been able to count on anyone. Can he turn out to be this hero?
RATING: 4 Stars
TYPE OF NOVEL: Mature Adult Romance
CHARACTERS: Will Blake & Audrey Bing
SERIES: Book 2 - standalone- other books about related characters.
DATE FINISHED: 4/29/15
75 reviews1 follower
May 26, 2015
Good but not great.

The first book was very good. Well written, great story, but most importantly, believable in a feel good romance way. This book started off in a very believable fashion but took a really start left into psychological woo woo land. I'm pagan and accept that much of what is labeled as unreal is just not fully understood. This story line was a little too far beyond.
Profile Image for Courtney.
155 reviews
June 26, 2015
Should have stuck to the reviews

I read the reviews and thought I'm normally fine with paranormal but this one was too much. Not in the realm of out there, but much more descriptive than necessary in a too much use of the thesaurus way.

I found myself speed reading just so I could get enough of the story so if I read the third brothers story I wouldn't feel like I'm missing something.
2,359 reviews9 followers
September 9, 2015
Talent for Trouble:Blake Brothers#2(The Blake Brothers Trilogy)

This story will make you cry and laugh but you won't put it down because you know something is going to happen,you just cannot figure out what it is.Will and Audrey are such opposites,it's a wonder they could be in the same room together.Will actually gets her fired from 2 jobs and causes her fiancee to dump her.Now it's time for the Ghostbusters to enter the story.Please read this,it is so good.
Profile Image for KLB.
166 reviews
January 8, 2016
Um, not my cup of tea. I was rooting for Will and Audrey at the end of book 1. Hoping it would happen. Couldn't wait to read this! It was just too weird for me. I liked Bob being around but the other stuff was too much for me. I finished it even though I wasn't sure I wanted to.

Yes, I am going on to read book #3, Drew's story. I really like this author. I really like Book 1 but this one was just too off the beaten path for me.
Profile Image for Beth McLeod.
588 reviews6 followers
June 3, 2016
I love this book. Lovelovelove. I read it during football season. I love football, but I couldn't concentrate on the games I was watching because all I could think about was finding out what was going to happen between Audrey and Will! I love me some Will. And I love where this book went, which was a complete surprise to me. This was my favorite of the series, and Susan Say has a lifelong fan in me.
Profile Image for Hope Vollm.
1,325 reviews23 followers
October 29, 2020
As a stand-alone, I could have read this book and not thought much of it; but as a part of a series, I really didn't like it. Other than using the same characters as the first book had, there really wasn't anything similar. The paranormal element that came into this one didn't make sense after having none of it in the first.

I didn't think it was awful, but I didn't think it was great either. I had to force myself to finish it.
Profile Image for Bungluna.
1,134 reviews
August 15, 2014
I really enjoyed book 1 of this series, but couldn't see how the author would turn Will into a hero. Well done, Ms. Sey! This is a funny, touching romance involving two people who have had it rough and come out fighting there's an unexpected paranormal vein, though. Even if not into PNR, the underlying story is well worth it.
Profile Image for Paul Tryon.
1 review
June 14, 2015
Good quick read

I pour through books and this one was no different. Susan writes a smart and fast-paced romance again with this one. I love how her characters aren't always the drop dead gorgeous type. They have flaws in more than just their actions. She shows us that loving someone goes beyond a face and lust.
302 reviews2 followers
September 7, 2015
Loved this

I read the first book and really liked it but I Loved this book! It had so many unexpected twists and turns and I didn't put it down until I finished it. I can't wait to see what book #3 will bring. I certainly like the way Ms Sey writes...and thinks. I think you'll be glad you've read these books.
Profile Image for Lizz.
780 reviews22 followers
April 16, 2014
3.5 Okay, you have to suspend reality just a little bit for this one, but it still worked for me. Apparently reality isn't something I necessarily need in my fiction. Go figure. Looking forward to the 3rd book in the series coming later this year.
154 reviews1 follower
April 17, 2014
she did it again...

...not sure how I am going to be able to wait for drew's full novel but the novella is already waiting...

Talent did surprise the heck out of me with its bend towards the paranormal...100% not expecting that!!!! but susan did it seamlessly...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews

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