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Detroit After Dark #2
Brawler
My name is Macy Kowalski.
I'm a registered nurse, a pharmaceutical scientist, a founding member of the Detroit Police Department’s barely-legal Shadow Squad, and a walking case study in 21st century man problems.
I like things calm and orderly. I have a soft spot for people, so I spend my days developing a formula to help cancer patients escape their suffering. My research has caught the eye of some dangerous members of the self-medicating community, and now I have to make sure my plans aren’t polluted by unsavory people who’d rather destroy me, my friends, and my city.
By night I have a part-time partner and full-time guardian, Detective Jonas Rafe, fellow member of the Shadow Squad. He is as volatile and unpredictable as anything I’ve ever dealt with in a lab. I’m smart enough to protect myself when handling chemicals, but I’m still learning when it comes to him.
He’s sweet when his mouth is closed, but there’s no way to prepare for when it opens. In time, his actions speak louder than his words, and though I vowed to never put my trust in another cop, he makes me want to take chances.
He’s the law, and he wants to protect me. They all do. But I’m neither as fragile nor as pure as he wants me to be. I’m a nerd with a gun fetish. I’m tired of observing, and it’s time for me to be in on the action. When he finds out what I've been up to in Detroit after dark, our relationship is tested, loyalties are divided, and lives are put in jeopardy.
When our team is under fire, Jonas will finally see the real me. When he does, will he see what he wants to see, or will he be the one who finally breaks me?
My name is Macy Kowalski. I am a brawler.
I'm a registered nurse, a pharmaceutical scientist, a founding member of the Detroit Police Department’s barely-legal Shadow Squad, and a walking case study in 21st century man problems.
I like things calm and orderly. I have a soft spot for people, so I spend my days developing a formula to help cancer patients escape their suffering. My research has caught the eye of some dangerous members of the self-medicating community, and now I have to make sure my plans aren’t polluted by unsavory people who’d rather destroy me, my friends, and my city.
By night I have a part-time partner and full-time guardian, Detective Jonas Rafe, fellow member of the Shadow Squad. He is as volatile and unpredictable as anything I’ve ever dealt with in a lab. I’m smart enough to protect myself when handling chemicals, but I’m still learning when it comes to him.
He’s sweet when his mouth is closed, but there’s no way to prepare for when it opens. In time, his actions speak louder than his words, and though I vowed to never put my trust in another cop, he makes me want to take chances.
He’s the law, and he wants to protect me. They all do. But I’m neither as fragile nor as pure as he wants me to be. I’m a nerd with a gun fetish. I’m tired of observing, and it’s time for me to be in on the action. When he finds out what I've been up to in Detroit after dark, our relationship is tested, loyalties are divided, and lives are put in jeopardy.
When our team is under fire, Jonas will finally see the real me. When he does, will he see what he wants to see, or will he be the one who finally breaks me?
My name is Macy Kowalski. I am a brawler.
250 pages, ebook
First published April 18, 2014
11 people are currently reading
314 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 14, 2023
Macy tuvo una infancia dificil, lo unico bueno fue su amistad con Venessa, Jules y Lina, pero Venessa siempre fue su mejor amiga, la familia de Venessa fue su verdadera familia, y es con Venessa con la que siempre cuenta para que venga en su ayuda, sobre todo cuando tiene que ver con los espantosos novios que escoge. Pero ahora Venessa tiene a Rogan, y ella se siente atraida por Jonas Rafe, pero ese hombre una cosa es lo que hace y otra lo que dice, como puede ella entenderlo? Y como esta asignado con el al escuadron Shadow, debe aprender a tratar con el, pero lo que ella quiere es mucho mas que amistad, pero como puede tenerlo con alquien a quien no puede entender? Pero cuando el peligro comienza a acecharla de nuevo, confia en que Jonas sera el que venga en su ayuda. Sera eso sufiente para que exista algo mas que amistad entre ellos.
Este libro es diferente al anterior, en casi todos los sentidos. Primero hay demasiado drama y cuando digo demasiado, es que aburre de tanto drama que existe entre la pareja. Segundo, la accion es apenas un par de capitulos y se desarrolla tan rapido que ni siquiera la notas como parte de la lectura. Tercero, los protas no "crecen" sino hasta los ultimos capitulos, y eso es un decir, porque lo unico que vi que crecieron fue en la comunicacion. Cuarto, la investigacion principal del nuevo "grupo" que quiere apoderarse Detroit pracamente no existe, es como si esta fuera otra linea "criminal" que no tuviera nada que ver con el anterior libro. Y Quinto y ultimo, tiene demasiados epilogos!, es cierto, a veces uno quiere saber mas de los personajes, pero de verdad tienen que escribir 10 capitulos mas de epilogo? No es como exagerar la cosa? Muchas de las cosas que se dicen en esos capitulos las podiamos haber intuido o leido como parrafos en el libro posterior.
En fin, esta historia se me hizo aburrida, muy dramatica y eterna de leer, pero quiero saber quien es el malvado final y como se desarrollan las otras dos relaciones asi que voy a seguir con la serie, esperando que las otras historias sean mas fluidas que esta.
Este libro es diferente al anterior, en casi todos los sentidos. Primero hay demasiado drama y cuando digo demasiado, es que aburre de tanto drama que existe entre la pareja. Segundo, la accion es apenas un par de capitulos y se desarrolla tan rapido que ni siquiera la notas como parte de la lectura. Tercero, los protas no "crecen" sino hasta los ultimos capitulos, y eso es un decir, porque lo unico que vi que crecieron fue en la comunicacion. Cuarto, la investigacion principal del nuevo "grupo" que quiere apoderarse Detroit pracamente no existe, es como si esta fuera otra linea "criminal" que no tuviera nada que ver con el anterior libro. Y Quinto y ultimo, tiene demasiados epilogos!, es cierto, a veces uno quiere saber mas de los personajes, pero de verdad tienen que escribir 10 capitulos mas de epilogo? No es como exagerar la cosa? Muchas de las cosas que se dicen en esos capitulos las podiamos haber intuido o leido como parrafos en el libro posterior.
En fin, esta historia se me hizo aburrida, muy dramatica y eterna de leer, pero quiero saber quien es el malvado final y como se desarrollan las otras dos relaciones asi que voy a seguir con la serie, esperando que las otras historias sean mas fluidas que esta.
March 19, 2018
I wanted to write a longer review...
But the book turned out to be not what I expected.
It wasn't bad, no. I just had too high expectation after reading the 1st one.
The heroine was ok, I didn't quite understand why she let her ex treat her that bad and why she didn't fight back for so long.
The hero was so-so, well, he wasn't very bright *cough cough* and some things he said were just dumb - plain and simple DUMB; but overall he was an ok guy.
Too much drama toward the end and the twist with MJ was too painful.
Nevertheless a good and very different read.
But the book turned out to be not what I expected.
It wasn't bad, no. I just had too high expectation after reading the 1st one.
The heroine was ok, I didn't quite understand why she let her ex treat her that bad and why she didn't fight back for so long.
The hero was so-so, well, he wasn't very bright *cough cough* and some things he said were just dumb - plain and simple DUMB; but overall he was an ok guy.
Too much drama toward the end and the twist with MJ was too painful.
Nevertheless a good and very different read.
April 20, 2014
Another so great book. I really liked this one too and I fell in love with Rafe even more. It was also nice to see Venessa and Rogan again. And some place Boner stole the show. :)
April 25, 2014
3.5 Stars
Gitte & Jenny: We love this Author. K.S Adkins writes from her heart and soul. She writes with an unapologetic honesty and makes no excuses for her stories or her characters who wear their hearts on their sleeves. How refreshing!
‘Sometimes the world is just too overwhelming, too cruel, just too everything.’ – Macy
Picking Brawler up we knew we were going to get another dark and gritty emotional story. A story with unassuming rough and damaged yet kick arse characters who have the mouths of sailors and fishwives. Characters who display intense emotion with cut throat words and swinging fists, yet have hearts of pure gold, loyalty and an honesty unrivaled. And sure enough we got that, yet this time we got brilliant writing too. We can’t say how amazed we are at the perfection of K.S Adkins writing in Brawler, wow what a fantastic improvement on the previous instalment, Brutal, which we loved!
We met Rafe and Macy in Brutal and this was their emotional and heart-breaking story. And what a story it was! Their relationship dominated, which turned out to be our only gripe. Yes, we loved being part of a journey where Macy and Rafe got to know each other and understand just why their relationship was as volatile and complicated as it was.
“Because, Princess, once you walk out that door the only one fucking you is me.” – Jonas
We fell in love with Jonas Rafe, he’s an amazing man, so alpha yet humble and vulnerable too. At times he had us in fits of laughter as well. This man and his lack of filter…hilarious!
“No man needs to see the inner workings of pussy. We just know we like it in there.” – Jonas
We would have loved more of his back-story, especially from his childhood. Yes, it was touched upon in order to explain his issues, however it wasn’t enough for us. We wanted more in order to fully connect emotionally.
‘Twice in one night, I’m running from the only guy I’ve ever truly wanted. A guy who thinks I’m a whore.’ – Macy
As for Macy she’s an amazing character. After all, nerdy chicks rock!
So whilst we really and truly enjoyed Brawler and thought the writing was brilliant, we didn’t love it as much as Brutal. For us the story was lacking somewhat, being overly focused on Macy and Rafe with their back-and-forth with sparse intermittent glimpses of the ongoing fight against the ‘unknown’ enemy. We loved revisiting with Rogan and Venessa; we absolutely love this couple and they’ll always have a special place in our hearts.
“I’ve never met anyone who can give you a compliment and an insult in the same sentence.” – Macy
Oh and just one more thing from Jonas, because this guy and his lack of filter never failed to entertain us.
We’ll leave the last word to Jonas whose lack of filter kept us constantly amused!
“I was never mad at you, I was mad at me. I owe you an apology and I’d like to deliver it in your privates.” – Jonas
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review**
Gitte & Jenny: We love this Author. K.S Adkins writes from her heart and soul. She writes with an unapologetic honesty and makes no excuses for her stories or her characters who wear their hearts on their sleeves. How refreshing!
‘Sometimes the world is just too overwhelming, too cruel, just too everything.’ – Macy
Picking Brawler up we knew we were going to get another dark and gritty emotional story. A story with unassuming rough and damaged yet kick arse characters who have the mouths of sailors and fishwives. Characters who display intense emotion with cut throat words and swinging fists, yet have hearts of pure gold, loyalty and an honesty unrivaled. And sure enough we got that, yet this time we got brilliant writing too. We can’t say how amazed we are at the perfection of K.S Adkins writing in Brawler, wow what a fantastic improvement on the previous instalment, Brutal, which we loved!
We met Rafe and Macy in Brutal and this was their emotional and heart-breaking story. And what a story it was! Their relationship dominated, which turned out to be our only gripe. Yes, we loved being part of a journey where Macy and Rafe got to know each other and understand just why their relationship was as volatile and complicated as it was.
“Because, Princess, once you walk out that door the only one fucking you is me.” – Jonas
We fell in love with Jonas Rafe, he’s an amazing man, so alpha yet humble and vulnerable too. At times he had us in fits of laughter as well. This man and his lack of filter…hilarious!
“No man needs to see the inner workings of pussy. We just know we like it in there.” – Jonas
We would have loved more of his back-story, especially from his childhood. Yes, it was touched upon in order to explain his issues, however it wasn’t enough for us. We wanted more in order to fully connect emotionally.
‘Twice in one night, I’m running from the only guy I’ve ever truly wanted. A guy who thinks I’m a whore.’ – Macy
As for Macy she’s an amazing character. After all, nerdy chicks rock!
So whilst we really and truly enjoyed Brawler and thought the writing was brilliant, we didn’t love it as much as Brutal. For us the story was lacking somewhat, being overly focused on Macy and Rafe with their back-and-forth with sparse intermittent glimpses of the ongoing fight against the ‘unknown’ enemy. We loved revisiting with Rogan and Venessa; we absolutely love this couple and they’ll always have a special place in our hearts.
“I’ve never met anyone who can give you a compliment and an insult in the same sentence.” – Macy
Oh and just one more thing from Jonas, because this guy and his lack of filter never failed to entertain us.
We’ll leave the last word to Jonas whose lack of filter kept us constantly amused!
“I was never mad at you, I was mad at me. I owe you an apology and I’d like to deliver it in your privates.” – Jonas
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review**
September 1, 2016
Once upon a time there was a story about a captain and a princess. They fought hard- some times against each other, but always for each other. This is a fairy tale romance done fucking Detroit style. Badass chick takes on hot-tempered guy. I fell in love with Rafe; his endearing foot-in-the-mouth moments made me laugh out loud. Ms. Adkins brought all elements together to make an enjoyable read. You can't help, but fall in love with the story of Rafe and Macy. You will laugh, cuss, tear up, and in the end, smile.
Rafe fell hard for Macy. There was only one problem - he was shit with words. What he lacked in that department, he made up for in protection and persistence; as well as apologizing his ass off every time he messed up - trust me - it was a lot. Macy was strong. What I loved most about her was that it was like I could see her working through each situation like I was the one in the book. The author not only brought them together - she brought them to life.
In my opinion, Rafe and Macy took over my top K. S. Adkins couple award. The sex scenes were amazing. It seemed like when they were sexually frustrated, I was too. I loved every moment of this book. Did it piss me off? Yeah. That just shows how invested I was in the characters. I love having the protective side of me pulled out in a book that makes me want to cuss the author for any wrong doing I feel is taking place. From my perspective she just keeps getting better and better. It's fucking real talk put in a motherfucking romance book.
May 5, 2014
Badass! That's how I describe this book, series, and author...she's my new author crush!
This book was great, don't get me wrong, but comparing it to the first book I just felt Brawler fell a little short. But I still loved it, Jonas and Macy are crazy good together. I can't wait for the next two books, I need to know about Tony damnit!
This book was great, don't get me wrong, but comparing it to the first book I just felt Brawler fell a little short. But I still loved it, Jonas and Macy are crazy good together. I can't wait for the next two books, I need to know about Tony damnit!
May 23, 2018
Macy Kowalski is a nurse, pharmaceutical scientist and a founding member of the off the book Shadow Squad. Shadow Squad is a group filled with women of certain talents and a couple of Detectives. Macy has been working with Detective Jonas Rafe but she is tired of the gruff behavior and feels like she is better off working by herself. That is until an someone from her past reemerges.
Rafe wants Macy but he has zero tact in doing so. Wires are crossed and when Macy is framed for something she did not do it makes things between Rafe and Macy very difficult. Will they be able to find their way back to one another before it is too late.
This is a more complex story than I thought it would be. Had some ugly cry moments so be forewarned. I liked aspects but at times wanted to smack Rafe. Had some really funny moments and the characters from the first book that brings a lot of humor to the story, especially their dog.
Rafe wants Macy but he has zero tact in doing so. Wires are crossed and when Macy is framed for something she did not do it makes things between Rafe and Macy very difficult. Will they be able to find their way back to one another before it is too late.
This is a more complex story than I thought it would be. Had some ugly cry moments so be forewarned. I liked aspects but at times wanted to smack Rafe. Had some really funny moments and the characters from the first book that brings a lot of humor to the story, especially their dog.
September 15, 2015
I really like this books, they are different and you can not stop once you start
I hope the next one comes out soon
I love all the caracters
I hope the next one comes out soon
I love all the caracters
April 22, 2014
4.5 Princess and Captain Stars
Fucking loved it Full Brawler Review
Fucking loved it Full Brawler Review
April 20, 2014
And she did it again! Bloody loved this just a much as Brutal.
April 24, 2014
Gitte & Jenny: We love this Author. K.S Adkins writes from her heart and soul. She writes with an unapologetic honesty and makes no excuses for her stories or her characters who wear their hearts on their sleeves. How refreshing!
‘Sometimes the world is just too overwhelming, too cruel, just too everything.’ – Macy
Picking Brawler up we knew we were going to get another dark and gritty emotional story. A story with unassuming rough and damaged yet kick arse characters who have the mouths of sailors and fishwives. Characters who display intense emotion with cut throat words and swinging fists, yet have hearts of pure gold, loyalty and an honesty unrivaled. And sure enough we got that, yet this time we got brilliant writing too. We can’t say how amazed we are at the perfection of K.S Adkins writing in Brawler, wow what a fantastic improvement on the previous instalment, Brutal, which we loved!
We met Rafe and Macy in Brutal and this was their emotional and heart-breaking story. And what a story it was! Their relationship dominated, which turned out to be our only gripe. Yes, we loved being part of a journey where Macy and Rafe got to know each other and understand just why their relationship was as volatile and complicated as it was.
“Because, Princess, once you walk out that door the only one fucking you is me.” – Jonas
We fell in love with Jonas Rafe, he’s an amazing man, so alpha yet humble and vulnerable too. At times he had us in fits of laughter as well. This man and his lack of filter…hilarious!
“No man needs to see the inner workings of pussy. We just know we like it in there.” – Jonas
We would have loved more of his back-story, especially from his childhood. Yes, it was touched upon in order to explain his issues, however it wasn’t enough for us. We wanted more in order to fully connect emotionally.
‘Twice in one night, I’m running from the only guy I’ve ever truly wanted. A guy who thinks I’m a whore.’ – Macy
As for Macy she’s an amazing character. After all, nerdy chicks rock!
So whilst we really and truly enjoyed Brawler and thought the writing was brilliant, we didn’t love it as much as Brutal. For us the story was lacking somewhat, being overly focused on Macy and Rafe with their back-and-forth with sparse intermittent glimpses of the ongoing fight against the ‘unknown’ enemy. We loved revisiting with Rogan and Venessa; we absolutely love this couple and they’ll always have a special place in our hearts.
“I’ve never met anyone who can give you a compliment and an insult in the same sentence.” – Macy
Ummmm have you met us Macy? Hahahahahahaha
Oh and just one more thing from Jonas, because this guy and his lack of filter never failed to entertain us.
We’ll leave the last word to Jonas whose lack of filter kept us constantly amused!
“I was never mad at you, I was mad at me. I owe you an apology and I’d like to deliver it in your privates.” – Jonas
G&J: 3.5 Stars
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review**
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January 4, 2015
What can I say about Brawler? It was rather heartbreaking, actually. I enjoyed Brutal (book one) enough to pick this one up. My main issue with book one was the instant love between Venessa and Rouge. However I always liked the secondary characters. So I found myself looking forward to this one, being that it is about Rouge’s friend and partner Jonas, and Venessa’s best friend Macy. To be honest, this book felt a lot like the first. Jonas and Macy fight nonstop, they are both super damaged and they sounded a lot like Venessa and Rouge. Macy was a shy girl who had internal strength in book one, however in this one she was beating people up and she felt much more like Venessa. Jonas was a playboy in book one, however in this book you find out he has very little experience, much like Rouge. I just found this book to be a repeat of book one, however, at about the halfway mark things appeared to go smoother. Jonas and Macy stopped the stupid bickering (mostly) and something big enough happened that it pulled me in. I enjoyed seeing the update for Venessa and Rouge, and was glad to see some healing happening by the end of this book. If you enjoyed book one, then you should definitely give this one a try.
August 12, 2016
***POSSIBLE SPOILER***
Fuck me Macy & Jonas took my ass on an emotional roller coaster ride! Seriously I fucking got all teary eyed & shit when she got shot and lost MJ and I don't do teary eyed ugh! I wanted to fucking kill Briggs and Ben my damnself those selfish pricks arrgh!
Macy did do a lot of crying but with everything going on and what she went through...fuucck I gave her a year long pass cuz that was some seriously fucked up shit she had to deal with. But even through her tears she always pushed through and kicked ass! Loved how strong she was even with all the misunderstandings that she and Jonas had. I also fucking loved how they helped each other to try and heal and work through their issues. Jonas was infuriating but also so got damn sweet too! There were times that I wanted to throat punch him but also stick my tongue down his throat...like how the fuck is that possible? LOL! Another great story and now I'm getting ready to start book 3. Yeeah!!
Fuck me Macy & Jonas took my ass on an emotional roller coaster ride! Seriously I fucking got all teary eyed & shit when she got shot and lost MJ and I don't do teary eyed ugh! I wanted to fucking kill Briggs and Ben my damnself those selfish pricks arrgh!
Macy did do a lot of crying but with everything going on and what she went through...fuucck I gave her a year long pass cuz that was some seriously fucked up shit she had to deal with. But even through her tears she always pushed through and kicked ass! Loved how strong she was even with all the misunderstandings that she and Jonas had. I also fucking loved how they helped each other to try and heal and work through their issues. Jonas was infuriating but also so got damn sweet too! There were times that I wanted to throat punch him but also stick my tongue down his throat...like how the fuck is that possible? LOL! Another great story and now I'm getting ready to start book 3. Yeeah!!
November 11, 2015
love it... it real, its raw and its the dirty f***ing truth. Love K.S. Adkins style... I'm pretty sure i just found my new best friend.
August 16, 2018
Dang!
Another one bites the dust. I can't get enough of these b.a. women. Macy is awesome, Rafe is an ass but he makes u p for it. The only I will say that I didn't like is I wish one part wouldn't have happened. Why??? Totally broke my heart! On to the next!
Another one bites the dust. I can't get enough of these b.a. women. Macy is awesome, Rafe is an ass but he makes u p for it. The only I will say that I didn't like is I wish one part wouldn't have happened. Why??? Totally broke my heart! On to the next!
July 21, 2019
read 65%
October 26, 2014
Wow! She does it again! K.S. Adkins delivers one badass story. She quickly turns out to be a favorite author of mine. Her writing style is so different to anything I’ve ever read before. Not holding any punches; her stories are honest, raw and sometimes downright heartbreaking. Her straightforward way of writing her stories and the fact that she is not making any excuses for it or her characters is very refreshing.
“I’ve never met anyone who can give you a compliment and an insult in the same sentence.” – Macy
‘Brawler’ is the second installment of the Detroit after Dark series and after reading the first one I couldn’t wait to read Macy’s story. Macy is a nurse and pharmaceutical scientist who developed a drug to help cancer patients, but ends up being misused by criminals in connection with human trafficking. The fact that these people desperately want the drug puts her in harm’s way because she is the only person who knows the formula. And this is where Jason comes into the picture; the person to protect her and keep her safe.
“He’s the most confused, infuriating, caring, beautiful, real man I’ve ever met.” ~ Macy
Now, Jason is a species all of his own. For him it’s love at first sight with Macy, but he is unable to put it into words. Actually, he is incapable of talking to her, which makes for some hilarious conversations, as well as some very infuriating ones. He is trying however, which makes him that more endearing. Regardless of his inability to communicate with the love of his life, his actions speak volumes when it comes to his feelings. In this case, the old saying that actions speak louder than words sure is true.
“I’ve waited my whole life for you. Never has anyone loved me like you do, and no one will ever love you like I do.” ~Macy
Their relationship, however, is filled with misunderstandings, which makes for quite a few frustrating instances where I would have loved to knock some sense into both of them, but mostly Jonas. And just when I thought all that bullshit is behind them, and they finally have it figured out; tragedy strikes and their world shatters into a million pieces. Yet, it is inspiring how they find their way back to each other and come out of a devastating situation stronger than before.
Even though this book showed a lot of improvement when it comes to the writing, it still falls a little short for me compared to Venessa’s and Rogan’s story. It focused a little too much on Macy’s and Jonas’ personal story and their back and forth. I would have loved to read more about the unknown enemy we kept hearing about.
Overall, I love this book. K.S. Adkins impressed me all over again. Her raw and gritty writing style is not only refreshing but also addicting. The book has drawn me in on page one and not let go; it made me laugh, cry and wanting to throw my kindle, sometimes even all three emotions at once. I highly recommend this series for anyone who loves badass heroines, who don’t take shit from anyone and their alphas.
“I’ve never met anyone who can give you a compliment and an insult in the same sentence.” – Macy
‘Brawler’ is the second installment of the Detroit after Dark series and after reading the first one I couldn’t wait to read Macy’s story. Macy is a nurse and pharmaceutical scientist who developed a drug to help cancer patients, but ends up being misused by criminals in connection with human trafficking. The fact that these people desperately want the drug puts her in harm’s way because she is the only person who knows the formula. And this is where Jason comes into the picture; the person to protect her and keep her safe.
“He’s the most confused, infuriating, caring, beautiful, real man I’ve ever met.” ~ Macy
Now, Jason is a species all of his own. For him it’s love at first sight with Macy, but he is unable to put it into words. Actually, he is incapable of talking to her, which makes for some hilarious conversations, as well as some very infuriating ones. He is trying however, which makes him that more endearing. Regardless of his inability to communicate with the love of his life, his actions speak volumes when it comes to his feelings. In this case, the old saying that actions speak louder than words sure is true.
“I’ve waited my whole life for you. Never has anyone loved me like you do, and no one will ever love you like I do.” ~Macy
Their relationship, however, is filled with misunderstandings, which makes for quite a few frustrating instances where I would have loved to knock some sense into both of them, but mostly Jonas. And just when I thought all that bullshit is behind them, and they finally have it figured out; tragedy strikes and their world shatters into a million pieces. Yet, it is inspiring how they find their way back to each other and come out of a devastating situation stronger than before.
Even though this book showed a lot of improvement when it comes to the writing, it still falls a little short for me compared to Venessa’s and Rogan’s story. It focused a little too much on Macy’s and Jonas’ personal story and their back and forth. I would have loved to read more about the unknown enemy we kept hearing about.
Overall, I love this book. K.S. Adkins impressed me all over again. Her raw and gritty writing style is not only refreshing but also addicting. The book has drawn me in on page one and not let go; it made me laugh, cry and wanting to throw my kindle, sometimes even all three emotions at once. I highly recommend this series for anyone who loves badass heroines, who don’t take shit from anyone and their alphas.
November 10, 2017
The only person I liked in this one is Rogan. He seems to have learned a lot since the last book and is really a sweetheart. He was the only one who somewhat had Macy's back.
Vanessa was a down right bitch in this book. She treated Macy like crap. She never took into consideration how Macy was feeling.
Macy has tons of problems she needs to work out. She was abused and raped not long before meeting the hero. She never really healed from that. She also just let Rafe walk all over her but she kept forgiving him because she loved him. I wished we got to see the strong side of her more. Not just her going psycho on Rafe's ex. She was left out of everything because everyone thought she was weak. She is on the task force for a reason but they don't let her do anything. I kept waiting on her to get mad and leave his sorry ass. But nope. She only left when she was sad and didn't think she was wanted. Get some self respect please.
Rafe is a manipulative SOB. He NEVER took into consideration how he made Macy feel. He knew she was abused but he didn't care. The only person he cared about was himself. He was always mean to Macy but just wouldn't let her go. He used others being mean to him as an excuse. He is emotionally abusive. It isn't right to want to make someone depend on you for everything. He said multiple times that is what he wanted. He got his wish because she can't survive without him as we saw with her crying every day. Every other time he opens his mouth he says something degrading. Then he tries to make up for it and then does it all over again. By that point she is all, "I love you just the way you are anger and all". Also, enough with the spying with the app. Did we not learn from the first book? Apparently not. Except now the heroine is all "even the strongest man couldn't resist".
Seriously what was the point of this book? There was no task force and fighting crime. They were too busy manipulating Macy to keep her from trying to help. They never tracked anyone down or got any new leads. They didn't get anything until Macy was kidnapped. By the time they found her she had pretty much saved herself. Actually if they hadn't of showed up she would have been just fine because she wouldn't have been distracted. At the end it said they would take more time off so V and Rogan can get married and honeymoon. They just had time off and still haven't accomplished anything!
Just writing this review has me pissed off all over again. Ugh I just can't. I have never been so angry throughout a book before.
Vanessa was a down right bitch in this book. She treated Macy like crap. She never took into consideration how Macy was feeling.
Macy has tons of problems she needs to work out. She was abused and raped not long before meeting the hero. She never really healed from that. She also just let Rafe walk all over her but she kept forgiving him because she loved him. I wished we got to see the strong side of her more. Not just her going psycho on Rafe's ex. She was left out of everything because everyone thought she was weak. She is on the task force for a reason but they don't let her do anything. I kept waiting on her to get mad and leave his sorry ass. But nope. She only left when she was sad and didn't think she was wanted. Get some self respect please.
Rafe is a manipulative SOB. He NEVER took into consideration how he made Macy feel. He knew she was abused but he didn't care. The only person he cared about was himself. He was always mean to Macy but just wouldn't let her go. He used others being mean to him as an excuse. He is emotionally abusive. It isn't right to want to make someone depend on you for everything. He said multiple times that is what he wanted. He got his wish because she can't survive without him as we saw with her crying every day. Every other time he opens his mouth he says something degrading. Then he tries to make up for it and then does it all over again. By that point she is all, "I love you just the way you are anger and all". Also, enough with the spying with the app. Did we not learn from the first book? Apparently not. Except now the heroine is all "even the strongest man couldn't resist".
Seriously what was the point of this book? There was no task force and fighting crime. They were too busy manipulating Macy to keep her from trying to help. They never tracked anyone down or got any new leads. They didn't get anything until Macy was kidnapped. By the time they found her she had pretty much saved herself. Actually if they hadn't of showed up she would have been just fine because she wouldn't have been distracted. At the end it said they would take more time off so V and Rogan can get married and honeymoon. They just had time off and still haven't accomplished anything!
Just writing this review has me pissed off all over again. Ugh I just can't. I have never been so angry throughout a book before.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2016
DISCLAIMER TO MY FELLOW GOODREADER
This review is my personal opinion and may contain: spoilers, quotes, rants and swearing.
28 year old Macy Kowalski is a pharmaceutical genius playing nurse on the side. She happens to have the pleasure of calling Venessa Cross her very best friend. Macy came from a rough background that shaped the woman she is today. Venessa may be the outwardly strong one of their duo, but Macy has a quiet strength lurking in the background. Her research is getting attention from the major player threatening her town. Now she has the chance to prove to the man she has fallen for that she can offer protection just like him. Macy just wants to be someone's equal.
"There's also a dark side of me that wants to be let out to play. I've always been labeled the "good one," which is hysterical if you actually know me. But I'm far from good. I'm just a better actress. I'll never be like Venessa, and I don't think that's expected of me. But I can help."
32 year old Jonas Rafe has been head over heals in love with Macy since the moment he saw her. He was tasked to watch over her when things started to go south with his partner's woman Venessa. Jonas wants her to be his but after putting his foot in his mouth repeatedly he may never have his chance. Especially with Macy now under direct threat. Jonas wants to protect his woman with everything he has, which causes him to miss it. Macy is her strongest beside him not behind him.
"See, I may just be a detective, my pay grade is shit, my hours suck, and I have fuckall for insurance, but here's the thing, Doc: there is only one thing in this miserable fucking world I care about, and she's in there on a hospital bed. So if you like your life just as it is, you're gonna see to it she's taken care of, and to show you my appreciation, I'm gonna let you keep enjoying that life, because you took care of her, you feel in' me right now, Doc?"
Macy and Jonas are very different from Venessa and Rogan. They may not be their firsts but they sure want to be each other's lasts... if they can get past the mounting issues. Fuck. This book was so emotional compared to the first. Hard to keep it together and not toss my kindle across the fucking room. Saw it coming. Still broke my heart. I am so drawn into this series. It is consuming me.
Cliffhanger - no (book #2 of series)
POV - Macy, Jonas, Rogan & Venessa
This review is my personal opinion and may contain: spoilers, quotes, rants and swearing.
28 year old Macy Kowalski is a pharmaceutical genius playing nurse on the side. She happens to have the pleasure of calling Venessa Cross her very best friend. Macy came from a rough background that shaped the woman she is today. Venessa may be the outwardly strong one of their duo, but Macy has a quiet strength lurking in the background. Her research is getting attention from the major player threatening her town. Now she has the chance to prove to the man she has fallen for that she can offer protection just like him. Macy just wants to be someone's equal.
"There's also a dark side of me that wants to be let out to play. I've always been labeled the "good one," which is hysterical if you actually know me. But I'm far from good. I'm just a better actress. I'll never be like Venessa, and I don't think that's expected of me. But I can help."
32 year old Jonas Rafe has been head over heals in love with Macy since the moment he saw her. He was tasked to watch over her when things started to go south with his partner's woman Venessa. Jonas wants her to be his but after putting his foot in his mouth repeatedly he may never have his chance. Especially with Macy now under direct threat. Jonas wants to protect his woman with everything he has, which causes him to miss it. Macy is her strongest beside him not behind him.
"See, I may just be a detective, my pay grade is shit, my hours suck, and I have fuckall for insurance, but here's the thing, Doc: there is only one thing in this miserable fucking world I care about, and she's in there on a hospital bed. So if you like your life just as it is, you're gonna see to it she's taken care of, and to show you my appreciation, I'm gonna let you keep enjoying that life, because you took care of her, you feel in' me right now, Doc?"
Macy and Jonas are very different from Venessa and Rogan. They may not be their firsts but they sure want to be each other's lasts... if they can get past the mounting issues. Fuck. This book was so emotional compared to the first. Hard to keep it together and not toss my kindle across the fucking room. Saw it coming. Still broke my heart. I am so drawn into this series. It is consuming me.
Cliffhanger - no (book #2 of series)
POV - Macy, Jonas, Rogan & Venessa
May 12, 2014
K.S. Adkins did it again! She got me hooked on Brawler within the first few pages and I couldn't put it down. As the next novel in the Detroit series she once again got you involved with the characters from the beginning which includes a mixture of love, hate, disgust and feeling embarrassed for all of them. Much like her first book Brutal, the emotion is raw and present and it is a novel that you just can't stop reading. It is a great continued story from Brutal with the focus moving from one couple to the other that keeps you involved in Venessa and Rogan, but shines a whole new light Macy and Rafe. This left me wanting more and looking forward to the next book and next focus of characters. Keep them coming Adkins!
September 10, 2016
Grabbed me by the balls and wouldn't let me put it down
KS did it again, made me feel, hear and see the entire story. I love a dual POV I love the depth it adds to the story, knowing each character intimately with still enough angst to make you not want to stop turning the pages.
Jonas 'Captian' Rafe & Macy's story isn't like V and Rogue but still kept me wanting and needing the entire time. I loved the real life characters and their stupidity of making mistakes with each other and others. I felt like I was reading about friends and not just some obscure character that was dropped on a page.
KS did it again, made me feel, hear and see the entire story. I love a dual POV I love the depth it adds to the story, knowing each character intimately with still enough angst to make you not want to stop turning the pages.
Jonas 'Captian' Rafe & Macy's story isn't like V and Rogue but still kept me wanting and needing the entire time. I loved the real life characters and their stupidity of making mistakes with each other and others. I felt like I was reading about friends and not just some obscure character that was dropped on a page.
January 13, 2017
Honestly? I did not expect this. With Brutal it was a pretty clear image of what is about to come. With Brawler it was weird from the beginning while i had some hardship with the lack of editing,dowright ridiculous at some point in the middle,but the last third was just...wow...
I didn't expect all these strong, untamed emotions,all this strenght of character. It was not what I expected... but it was so much more...
Ruining my mascara and staying up all night was totally worth it!
I didn't expect all these strong, untamed emotions,all this strenght of character. It was not what I expected... but it was so much more...
Ruining my mascara and staying up all night was totally worth it!
July 4, 2014
geez it's so weird that my first review was magically deleted!!!….long story short I didn't like this book it was a let down on EPIC proportions. Hoping the author will vindicate herself with book 3 Bersek. I like the premise of her series however, this book needed planning and serious editing. Let's hope this review stays up this time. Dang, censorship!!!
October 24, 2014
This time I got as far as 40% when I'd had enough. It's hard to believe the H/h hold jobs when they act like immature children. I got sick of their song and dance about their feelings for one another that started on page 1 and every subsequent page thereafter, and I'm pretty sure would've continued long after where I gave up.
June 15, 2014
KS did it again, made me feel, hear and see the entire story. I love a dual POV I love the depth it adds to the story, knowing each character intimately with still enough angst to make you not want to stop turning the pages.
November 19, 2014
May and rages story. Macy made a drug that someone wants and will do anything to have. Rafe is a cop on a mission to make may like him. They fight and macy hates him but likes him to. Macy is on team Nessa and will help her friend fight detroit.
January 29, 2015
Such a great series! I am really enjoying it! This book had my emotions all over the place. I was laughing, crying and angry. Sometimes all at once! On to book three! I hope it doesn't end there though.
November 26, 2016
I love all of K.S. Adkins Detroit After Dark books. Each book is about four (4) girls, women now, who grew together, helped each other, and are closer than sisters. These are not just romances. They are so much more!
Read and enjoy!
Debra L. Johnson
Read and enjoy!
Debra L. Johnson
April 22, 2014
Another kick ass book. Loved catching up with Vanessa and Rogue, but loved Macy and Rafe together. Rafe is so misunderstood, loved to read the embarrassing almost sex scenes.
May 15, 2014
I LOVED this from the Author's Note to the very end! Can't wait to read more from this author.
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