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Defiant Kings #5
Haven
She’s a former Olympic figure skater whose world turned upside down. He’s a pro-football player who never let go of the past. What happens when these two finally have their second chance and a stalker threatens everything?
Brandon Dixon came into my life like a quiet storm. Powerful and intense. I was sure he was my fresh start. But it turned out life had other plans.
We’ve spent the past decade avoiding each other until we can’t anymore. And if I thought a younger Brandon was hard to resist, that boy doesn’t hold a candle to the man standing in front of me now. Bigger, broader, and more protective than ever, ignoring him is impossible.
The longer we fight our attraction, the higher and hotter the flame grows—until one night and one elevator change everything.
Brandon Dixon came into my life like a quiet storm. Powerful and intense. I was sure he was my fresh start. But it turned out life had other plans.
We’ve spent the past decade avoiding each other until we can’t anymore. And if I thought a younger Brandon was hard to resist, that boy doesn’t hold a candle to the man standing in front of me now. Bigger, broader, and more protective than ever, ignoring him is impossible.
The longer we fight our attraction, the higher and hotter the flame grows—until one night and one elevator change everything.
332 pages, Hardcover
First published October 5, 2023
773 people are currently reading
1547 people want to read
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October 6, 2023
3.5 ⭐
Book info:
- Second chance
- Sports romance (football)
- Single mom
- Abuse (Physical / Mental)
- Stalker
- Murder
- No cheating, opd, third act breakup
- HEA
Let me start by saying I've never been a fan of second chance romance. I do read some occasionally and it's usually a miss. I didn't know this is a second chance book and that's on me for not reading the blurb. Anyway, the story is okay and I'm quite surprised that I didn't DNF.
So, one night, Ashlyn's teammate, Nina, asked her to sneak out with her to go to a frat party. This is where Nina introduced Brandon to Ashlyn and she asked him to stay with her (at least she didn't leave her all alone). The two became comfortable with each other and ended up talking all night, when Nina and Ashlyn were about to leave, he asked for her number and promised to text each other while she was competing. In two days time, Ash is going to France to compete in the Olympics (she was a figure skater) They texted for weeks, and at this point I know something is developing between them.
Eventually the day of competition came, Nina screwed up her routine and failed to bag the gold award. Because of this, Ashlyn was expected to win the gold now. But she too, failed, and won the silver instead. Their coach, who happens to be Nina's father too, is abusive. He physically and mentally abused Nina and Ashlyn whenever they failed to win the first place in any competition. Nina ran away and died from a car crash while Ashlyn was left to endure all the abuse. She had enough of his treatment and she told her coach she was quitting which enraged him. He beat the shit out of Ashlyn but John (her future husband) came into the picture and saved her. He offered her protection and safety but in order to have that she needs to marry him.
By this point she was no longer responding to Brandon's messages because she had a lot of things going on for her. Thinking she has nowhere to go and feeling defeated because of her situation, she accepted John's proposal. And the news of her marriage was found out by Brandon a week later.
After 15 years, idk their age but I think they're in their thirties. Brandon is working for the football team of Ashlyn's late husband (she was only married to him for 7 months before he died). They've been around each other for the last decade or more but they rarely interacted. They still are very much attracted to one another but they never acted on it.
Ashlyn had only been with her husband all throughout her life, after he died she never considered dating or sleeping with anyone. So in the story she had been celibate for the last 15 years. While Brandon, I didn't get a manhoe vibes but he said he doesn't date and he always keeps things casual. He said it has been a few months since he last slept with someone. 😑 He overheard Ashlyn talking to her family members about her celibacy, and for some reason this info turned him on and he promised not to let her go once he got another chance.
Then they got stuck in an elevator and idk, they went from 0 to 60. They never had a proper conversation and they just ended up mauling each other. They never talked about why she ghosted him or what happened to them in the last 15 years. I mean, I'm sure they're different people from then to now, and they just skipped all of these important things and proceeded to jump in bed and go at it like bunnies.
I'm so conflicted because I feel like they let their lust take over instead of dealing first with what happened to them. 15 years isn't a short time and they could've talked to each other for the last decade but they never did. I think they only got this chance because Brandon felt possessive after finding out she has never been with anyone after her husband. If not for that info I don't think he would strike a conversation with her. Probably the elevator incident helped too, but yeah it was just unconvincing.
Anyway, I did like his relationship with Ashlyn's daughter. He has been in her life since she was 5 (i think?? She's 15 in the present) and Lindy totally supports him to pursue her mom. She even gave her blessing to him and told him he's the one he would want for a father.
The story is okay, the spicy scenes were hot, ngl. This author really knows how to write her steamy scenes. But as for the romance, it felt so rushed with them getting back together. I would've loved for them to take it slow and get to know one another better before jumping to serious stuff. I didn't care about the fact that they danced around one another for the last decade, avoiding each other isn't taking things slow. It would only be taking slow if they had a decent conversation over the years.
Anyway, this is still good, for the most part I enjoyed it. I liked some suspense thrown in the end because of Ashlyn's stalker. And I also liked the epilogue, reading the POV of all the siblings. If readers would not follow the series, the side characters can be a bit overwhelming. There are too many characters included in this book and it still kind of makes my head ache to follow who's who. But aside from that, I had fun the majority of the book. Not bad for a second chance romance. 🤷♀️
Book info:
- Second chance
- Sports romance (football)
- Single mom
- Abuse (Physical / Mental)
- Stalker
- Murder
- No cheating, opd, third act breakup
- HEA
Let me start by saying I've never been a fan of second chance romance. I do read some occasionally and it's usually a miss. I didn't know this is a second chance book and that's on me for not reading the blurb. Anyway, the story is okay and I'm quite surprised that I didn't DNF.
So, one night, Ashlyn's teammate, Nina, asked her to sneak out with her to go to a frat party. This is where Nina introduced Brandon to Ashlyn and she asked him to stay with her (at least she didn't leave her all alone). The two became comfortable with each other and ended up talking all night, when Nina and Ashlyn were about to leave, he asked for her number and promised to text each other while she was competing. In two days time, Ash is going to France to compete in the Olympics (she was a figure skater) They texted for weeks, and at this point I know something is developing between them.
Eventually the day of competition came, Nina screwed up her routine and failed to bag the gold award. Because of this, Ashlyn was expected to win the gold now. But she too, failed, and won the silver instead. Their coach, who happens to be Nina's father too, is abusive. He physically and mentally abused Nina and Ashlyn whenever they failed to win the first place in any competition. Nina ran away and died from a car crash while Ashlyn was left to endure all the abuse. She had enough of his treatment and she told her coach she was quitting which enraged him. He beat the shit out of Ashlyn but John (her future husband) came into the picture and saved her. He offered her protection and safety but in order to have that she needs to marry him.
By this point she was no longer responding to Brandon's messages because she had a lot of things going on for her. Thinking she has nowhere to go and feeling defeated because of her situation, she accepted John's proposal. And the news of her marriage was found out by Brandon a week later.
After 15 years, idk their age but I think they're in their thirties. Brandon is working for the football team of Ashlyn's late husband (she was only married to him for 7 months before he died). They've been around each other for the last decade or more but they rarely interacted. They still are very much attracted to one another but they never acted on it.
Ashlyn had only been with her husband all throughout her life, after he died she never considered dating or sleeping with anyone. So in the story she had been celibate for the last 15 years. While Brandon, I didn't get a manhoe vibes but he said he doesn't date and he always keeps things casual. He said it has been a few months since he last slept with someone. 😑 He overheard Ashlyn talking to her family members about her celibacy, and for some reason this info turned him on and he promised not to let her go once he got another chance.
Then they got stuck in an elevator and idk, they went from 0 to 60. They never had a proper conversation and they just ended up mauling each other. They never talked about why she ghosted him or what happened to them in the last 15 years. I mean, I'm sure they're different people from then to now, and they just skipped all of these important things and proceeded to jump in bed and go at it like bunnies.
I'm so conflicted because I feel like they let their lust take over instead of dealing first with what happened to them. 15 years isn't a short time and they could've talked to each other for the last decade but they never did. I think they only got this chance because Brandon felt possessive after finding out she has never been with anyone after her husband. If not for that info I don't think he would strike a conversation with her. Probably the elevator incident helped too, but yeah it was just unconvincing.
Anyway, I did like his relationship with Ashlyn's daughter. He has been in her life since she was 5 (i think?? She's 15 in the present) and Lindy totally supports him to pursue her mom. She even gave her blessing to him and told him he's the one he would want for a father.
The story is okay, the spicy scenes were hot, ngl. This author really knows how to write her steamy scenes. But as for the romance, it felt so rushed with them getting back together. I would've loved for them to take it slow and get to know one another better before jumping to serious stuff. I didn't care about the fact that they danced around one another for the last decade, avoiding each other isn't taking things slow. It would only be taking slow if they had a decent conversation over the years.
Anyway, this is still good, for the most part I enjoyed it. I liked some suspense thrown in the end because of Ashlyn's stalker. And I also liked the epilogue, reading the POV of all the siblings. If readers would not follow the series, the side characters can be a bit overwhelming. There are too many characters included in this book and it still kind of makes my head ache to follow who's who. But aside from that, I had fun the majority of the book. Not bad for a second chance romance. 🤷♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 2, 2023
I have been obsessed with the Kingston’s since I accidentally came across ‘Caged’ on its release date.
And Bella has given us such a large variety of different troops within this family and the two series that they cover. From multiple sports and mafia to friends to lovers to enemies to lovers to second chance, they all have been wonderful every aspect.
Haven
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ashlyn, being the final Kingston of this generation having the conclusion book was just top tier. I loved reading about her first interaction with Brandon, and then all the push down feelings that both of them had to deal with for a decade and a half. She and her daughter deserve the whole world after the trauma that she went through, and they found that happily ever after with Brandon.
Brandon, devoted, big brother, became the father that his shortcake never had and he stepped into that role beautifully, he also stepped into the role of Ashlyn’s other half is just as well.
Their chemistry, 🥵🥵🥵 left me blushing.
I’m so sad to see that this is the end of this generation of Kingstons, but I am so incredibly excited for generation two.
On another note, can we have a whole book or just group chats between the siblings? 😂😂
And Bella has given us such a large variety of different troops within this family and the two series that they cover. From multiple sports and mafia to friends to lovers to enemies to lovers to second chance, they all have been wonderful every aspect.
Haven
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ashlyn, being the final Kingston of this generation having the conclusion book was just top tier. I loved reading about her first interaction with Brandon, and then all the push down feelings that both of them had to deal with for a decade and a half. She and her daughter deserve the whole world after the trauma that she went through, and they found that happily ever after with Brandon.
Brandon, devoted, big brother, became the father that his shortcake never had and he stepped into that role beautifully, he also stepped into the role of Ashlyn’s other half is just as well.
Their chemistry, 🥵🥵🥵 left me blushing.
I’m so sad to see that this is the end of this generation of Kingstons, but I am so incredibly excited for generation two.
On another note, can we have a whole book or just group chats between the siblings? 😂😂
October 4, 2023
I absolutely loved this book!! This was the perfect ending to the series. I loved Ashlyn & Brandon, I’m so happy we got to see the first time they meet and it just made their 2nd chance of love so much better. The epilogues was so good!!
I love the Kingston family and how much they love Ashlyn & Lindy. Their texting family group chats are so much fun. Lindy is grown up in this book so it was so nice to see her story. I can’t wait to see her in the new Kroydon Hills second generation world.
Thank you Bella Matthews for the ARC.
I love the Kingston family and how much they love Ashlyn & Lindy. Their texting family group chats are so much fun. Lindy is grown up in this book so it was so nice to see her story. I can’t wait to see her in the new Kroydon Hills second generation world.
Thank you Bella Matthews for the ARC.
December 12, 2023
Haven
Overall: 4⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
What to say about this
I haven’t read the entire series yet but this book feels like I am missing the good thing and probably I’m gone start this series from the beginning soon.
Haven features Brandon & Ashlyn Kingston..
Brandon and Ashlyn frist meet15 years ago the attraction and chemistry just wow
They got each other’s contact and stayed in touch until tragedy strikes them.. 🫣
they avoided each other for 10 years but but their chemistry has to explode at some point .. which indeed happen.❤️🔥🔥
Brandon is everything we need in this book kind loyal and sweet I would say. Their past is just what to say I do not want to give away any spoilers but they did get abuse in past and they both had suffered. So there nature is became to protect what they love and their dear ones. They make each other feel safe and protected.
It was definitely a page turner. This is a story about family love trust care and hope.
In short I would say this is book is every romance girl’s dream. 💭
Overall: 4⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
What to say about this
I haven’t read the entire series yet but this book feels like I am missing the good thing and probably I’m gone start this series from the beginning soon.
Haven features Brandon & Ashlyn Kingston..
Brandon and Ashlyn frist meet15 years ago the attraction and chemistry just wow
They got each other’s contact and stayed in touch until tragedy strikes them.. 🫣
they avoided each other for 10 years but but their chemistry has to explode at some point .. which indeed happen.❤️🔥🔥
Brandon is everything we need in this book kind loyal and sweet I would say. Their past is just what to say I do not want to give away any spoilers but they did get abuse in past and they both had suffered. So there nature is became to protect what they love and their dear ones. They make each other feel safe and protected.
It was definitely a page turner. This is a story about family love trust care and hope.
In short I would say this is book is every romance girl’s dream. 💭
October 27, 2023
Breaking my book buying ban for this one 💁🏼
update: worth it
update: worth it
October 4, 2023
Bella Matthews has given us a fantastic series ~ Haven may just be my favourite. I loved it ~ with every beat of my heart. Bella has most definitely saved the best till last. An absolute MUST read !
I would recommend starting the series from the beginning with ‘Caged’ There are a lot of interconnected characters from each book, I think that’s what I love most. You’re not only reading a love story, you’re reconnecting with old favourites.
Haven features Brandon (Maddies older brother from Caged) & Ashlyn Kingston (Stepmother to the Kingston siblings)
Brandon first met Ashlyn 15 years ago at a party. Brandon was on the cusp of securing his debut into the NFL, Ashlyn is about to leave for the Olympics as part of the skating team. The attraction & chemistry between them was instantaneous.
They swapped numbers & stayed in contact until tragedy struck tearing apart their future.
Ashlyn married John Kingston because he could protect her leaving Brandon devastated. He’d played the field but he never forgot the one that got away !
They avoided each other for 10 years until one night their chemistry exploded
Brandon is everything you want in a book boyfriend. He’s kind, caring & loyal.
I don’t want to give to much away to spoil your reading experience but it’s safe to say that Ashlyn & Brandon are both fighters. They have both suffered untold abuse but they fight to protect each other & those they love. True survivors ~ They make each other safe & complete.
I could gush enough over how much I LOVE Brandon & Ashlyn Their attraction, the banter, the spice, the sweetness - just EVERYTHING is giving me all the feels. I devoured it. It was definitely a page turner and made me feel so many things. This is a story about family, trust, love & hope.
There was suspense, banter, love, heartbreak & so much spice.
I honestly can’t recommend this series enough !
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m so excited for The Keeper ~ This will feature Madeleine Kingston & Easton Hayes !
I would recommend starting the series from the beginning with ‘Caged’ There are a lot of interconnected characters from each book, I think that’s what I love most. You’re not only reading a love story, you’re reconnecting with old favourites.
Haven features Brandon (Maddies older brother from Caged) & Ashlyn Kingston (Stepmother to the Kingston siblings)
Brandon first met Ashlyn 15 years ago at a party. Brandon was on the cusp of securing his debut into the NFL, Ashlyn is about to leave for the Olympics as part of the skating team. The attraction & chemistry between them was instantaneous.
They swapped numbers & stayed in contact until tragedy struck tearing apart their future.
Ashlyn married John Kingston because he could protect her leaving Brandon devastated. He’d played the field but he never forgot the one that got away !
They avoided each other for 10 years until one night their chemistry exploded
Brandon is everything you want in a book boyfriend. He’s kind, caring & loyal.
I don’t want to give to much away to spoil your reading experience but it’s safe to say that Ashlyn & Brandon are both fighters. They have both suffered untold abuse but they fight to protect each other & those they love. True survivors ~ They make each other safe & complete.
I could gush enough over how much I LOVE Brandon & Ashlyn Their attraction, the banter, the spice, the sweetness - just EVERYTHING is giving me all the feels. I devoured it. It was definitely a page turner and made me feel so many things. This is a story about family, trust, love & hope.
There was suspense, banter, love, heartbreak & so much spice.
I honestly can’t recommend this series enough !
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m so excited for The Keeper ~ This will feature Madeleine Kingston & Easton Hayes !
May 6, 2025
Brandon
Brandon has loved Ashlyn forever. One night they meet then her world falls apart. Many years later they meet again. But life hasn't been so good. He still loves her. This is his story. As always Bella writes a good one. This book was hot. What a great series
Brandon has loved Ashlyn forever. One night they meet then her world falls apart. Many years later they meet again. But life hasn't been so good. He still loves her. This is his story. As always Bella writes a good one. This book was hot. What a great series
October 3, 2023
Worth infinite stars 🌟
Bella has done it again, I love all these men in very different ways, but this one is my absolute favourite, I love Brandon and ashlyn so much.
From start to finish, I could not put it down. The emotional rollercoaster thier story took me on floored me.
I was on tender hooks with my heart in my mouth.
What an amazing end to a phenomenal series, one that I will miss but can't wait for what's to come.
Bella has done it again, I love all these men in very different ways, but this one is my absolute favourite, I love Brandon and ashlyn so much.
From start to finish, I could not put it down. The emotional rollercoaster thier story took me on floored me.
I was on tender hooks with my heart in my mouth.
What an amazing end to a phenomenal series, one that I will miss but can't wait for what's to come.
October 2, 2023
Bella Matthews has given us a fantastic ending to an amazing series! Ashlyn and Brandon’s story is one for the ages. I just loved them (and Madeline aka Lindy) SO much. Things to look for in this book:
Sports romance ✔️
Second chance ✔️
Forced proximity ✔️
Grumpy/sunshine ✔️
Stalker situation ✔️
Traumatic childhoods (for both) ✔️
Huge Kingston family love! ✔️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
Angst level: 💔.5
Brandon and Ashlyn met 15 years ago at a college party. They hit it off immediately and things were seemingly going well until Ashlyn’s life changed in an instant. Since then, they have been cordial when in the same place, but the friendship that they briefly had has never been able to be saved.
Until now.
Brandon has decided that he is done waiting and he wants Ashlyn just as much as he once did. And once Ashlyn allows herself to feel the feelings that she has shoved down, it is absolutely beautiful. Everyone in the family has been rooting for them all this time, especially Ashlyn’s daughter Madeline (Lindy). This story is perfect for these two finally getting their happy ending!
As always, I loved all of the Kingston family love – especially the love and closeness that Ashlyn had with so many of the family members. Since we didn’t get to see that too often in other books since she was just their sisters mother for the most part.
There is a bit of a stalker situation that happens and Brandon and one other character really step up to protect the girls. I loved how they were able the situation together.
Madeline was fantastic in this book. I loved seeing her grown up – she’s 15 in this book as it takes place a few years after Overruled. She turned out to be such a confident and genuinely amazing young woman. I love her friendships within the family and what she is doing with her life. I can’t wait to see her book in the future!
Sports romance ✔️
Second chance ✔️
Forced proximity ✔️
Grumpy/sunshine ✔️
Stalker situation ✔️
Traumatic childhoods (for both) ✔️
Huge Kingston family love! ✔️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
Angst level: 💔.5
Brandon and Ashlyn met 15 years ago at a college party. They hit it off immediately and things were seemingly going well until Ashlyn’s life changed in an instant. Since then, they have been cordial when in the same place, but the friendship that they briefly had has never been able to be saved.
Until now.
Brandon has decided that he is done waiting and he wants Ashlyn just as much as he once did. And once Ashlyn allows herself to feel the feelings that she has shoved down, it is absolutely beautiful. Everyone in the family has been rooting for them all this time, especially Ashlyn’s daughter Madeline (Lindy). This story is perfect for these two finally getting their happy ending!
As always, I loved all of the Kingston family love – especially the love and closeness that Ashlyn had with so many of the family members. Since we didn’t get to see that too often in other books since she was just their sisters mother for the most part.
There is a bit of a stalker situation that happens and Brandon and one other character really step up to protect the girls. I loved how they were able the situation together.
Madeline was fantastic in this book. I loved seeing her grown up – she’s 15 in this book as it takes place a few years after Overruled. She turned out to be such a confident and genuinely amazing young woman. I love her friendships within the family and what she is doing with her life. I can’t wait to see her book in the future!
October 5, 2023
This is book 5 in this series Defiant Kings #5 and is a enemies to lovers, sports romance,
second chance romance, stalker, romantic suspense and is a must read book.
This is Ashlyn and Brandons book and I really enjoyed reading about these two. These two met years ago and had a connection almost instantly but, after something happens they end up like two ships passing in the night. Until years later Brandon doesn't want to wait anymore.
I loved the characters and the connection between them both and their chemistry and banter was fabulous and I love seeing when they first met. I love how caring Brandon is and I loved Lindy and how he was with her too, so very sweet. I love how this author brings her characters to life in the page and makes them so real you feel like you actually know them. It's amazing.
I've loved the Kingston family and the way that this author brought these guys to life is absolutely fantastic. This family and everyone in it are so amazing that you want to be part of it yourself.
This book has suspense, steam and will keep you hooked all the way through and this book will have your emotions all over the place and your heart aching. I loved the storyline and feel it flowed throughout and I absolutely love the group chats with This family. This author has written a beautiful family and you will love each of these couples throughout this series.
I highly recommend this series to everyone and to start with book 1.
second chance romance, stalker, romantic suspense and is a must read book.
This is Ashlyn and Brandons book and I really enjoyed reading about these two. These two met years ago and had a connection almost instantly but, after something happens they end up like two ships passing in the night. Until years later Brandon doesn't want to wait anymore.
I loved the characters and the connection between them both and their chemistry and banter was fabulous and I love seeing when they first met. I love how caring Brandon is and I loved Lindy and how he was with her too, so very sweet. I love how this author brings her characters to life in the page and makes them so real you feel like you actually know them. It's amazing.
I've loved the Kingston family and the way that this author brought these guys to life is absolutely fantastic. This family and everyone in it are so amazing that you want to be part of it yourself.
This book has suspense, steam and will keep you hooked all the way through and this book will have your emotions all over the place and your heart aching. I loved the storyline and feel it flowed throughout and I absolutely love the group chats with This family. This author has written a beautiful family and you will love each of these couples throughout this series.
I highly recommend this series to everyone and to start with book 1.
October 7, 2023
4.5 ✨
Thank you Bella Matthews for this ARC!
Tropes:
♡ Second chance
♡ Single mom
♡ Former olympic figure skater FMC
♡ Pro football player MMC
♡ Crazy stalker
♡ Found family
Haven was seriously everything I needed. It was so sweet, intense and sexy so it had the whole package if you asked me. Brandon and Ashlyn were just to die for and I kept finding myself so excited whenever I was reading this book just because of how mesmerizing it truly is.
Ashlyn Kingston and Brandon Dixon first meet when they were just beginning their lives but is pulled apart and not been able to act on anything until 15 years later when life and faith finally puts them together again. But it’s not without any hardships since Ashlyn is tormented by an unknown stalker that threats to ruin everything.
Brandon is so book boyfriend goals and Ashlyn is the person you would want by your side at all times just because of how sweet and supportive she is. She’s the best mom and the sweetest friend and I can’t get over how perfectly she and Brandon are together. Brandon is such a dream honestly and he would literally move heaven and earth for Ashlyn and her daughter Lindy. Also his relationship with Lindy is just the best and he’s truly the dad she never had. 🥺
This book is every romance loving girlie’s dream. It’s sooooo swoon worthy.
Thank you Bella Matthews for this ARC!
Tropes:
♡ Second chance
♡ Single mom
♡ Former olympic figure skater FMC
♡ Pro football player MMC
♡ Crazy stalker
♡ Found family
Haven was seriously everything I needed. It was so sweet, intense and sexy so it had the whole package if you asked me. Brandon and Ashlyn were just to die for and I kept finding myself so excited whenever I was reading this book just because of how mesmerizing it truly is.
Ashlyn Kingston and Brandon Dixon first meet when they were just beginning their lives but is pulled apart and not been able to act on anything until 15 years later when life and faith finally puts them together again. But it’s not without any hardships since Ashlyn is tormented by an unknown stalker that threats to ruin everything.
Brandon is so book boyfriend goals and Ashlyn is the person you would want by your side at all times just because of how sweet and supportive she is. She’s the best mom and the sweetest friend and I can’t get over how perfectly she and Brandon are together. Brandon is such a dream honestly and he would literally move heaven and earth for Ashlyn and her daughter Lindy. Also his relationship with Lindy is just the best and he’s truly the dad she never had. 🥺
This book is every romance loving girlie’s dream. It’s sooooo swoon worthy.
October 3, 2023
I was provided an ARC of this title for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
If the fact that I read this in less than 8 hours doesn’t speak for itself, I truly do not know what will. No big surprise, Bella Matthews did it again!
These characters have stolen so much of my heart over the course of The Defiant Kings series, and Brandon and Ashlyn proved no exception to that! As always, I of course always love when the author drops little easter eggs about some of the previous main characters— and in this case, I think potentially some of the FUTURE ones? 👀
I laughed, I cried, I gasped, I squealed. You can always count on a full array of emotions from any of this authors titles in my experience. They just get better and I’ll never not come back for another heaping helping!
I truly cannot wait to learn more about the next generation! Thank you so much to Bella and Literally Yours PR for the ARC!
January 15, 2024
nothing special about this book tbh but very cute
August 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this one I love a good second chance romance and this one was a tear jerker!
November 10, 2023
I enjoyed the romantic dynamics of this story. Brandon and Ashlyn had great chemistry and you can feel the longing of what would be a one that got away trope and a second chance at what should have always been.
The more each of their past is reveal the more my heart broke. The action of this story and the depth at which it happened really threw me for a loop.
The only challenge I had is that this really can’t be a standalone as there is a lot of characters and their dynamic is already set based on previous books. Reading them before this one would have helped the beginning flow so much better. But it did make me very interested in going back and reading the previous books in the series and look forward to the Keeper coming out soon.
The more each of their past is reveal the more my heart broke. The action of this story and the depth at which it happened really threw me for a loop.
The only challenge I had is that this really can’t be a standalone as there is a lot of characters and their dynamic is already set based on previous books. Reading them before this one would have helped the beginning flow so much better. But it did make me very interested in going back and reading the previous books in the series and look forward to the Keeper coming out soon.
October 5, 2023
This was a sweet, low angst, second chance romance. Ashlyn and Brandon have both been through abuse and trauma. They have finally found their way back to eachother after 15 years.
They met in college and hit it off at a college party. However. Ashlyn went to compete in the Olympics and tragedy strikes. She ghosts Brandon, but they end up running in the same circles since she married the owner of The Kings football team, and Brandon is one of their star players. Her husband died 15 years ago, and she has never dated anyone since. They have been pining for one another for years, and they finally decide to try again after they get stuck in an elevator.
Their second chance romance was really sweet, and I loved how amazing Brandon was with her 15 year old daughter. They had insane chemistry, and I really felt their connection.
There is also a stalker situation, and Brandon is worried about protecting Ashlyn and her daughter. Although, I guessed who the stalker was immediately.
I probably would have liked it more if I had read the previous books in the series. I requested the ARC and didn't realize it was the last book in the series. There was an extended epilogue with all the characters from the previous books, which I'm sure was a beautiful ending to the series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Thank you to Literally Yours PR for providing the ARC.
They met in college and hit it off at a college party. However. Ashlyn went to compete in the Olympics and tragedy strikes. She ghosts Brandon, but they end up running in the same circles since she married the owner of The Kings football team, and Brandon is one of their star players. Her husband died 15 years ago, and she has never dated anyone since. They have been pining for one another for years, and they finally decide to try again after they get stuck in an elevator.
Their second chance romance was really sweet, and I loved how amazing Brandon was with her 15 year old daughter. They had insane chemistry, and I really felt their connection.
There is also a stalker situation, and Brandon is worried about protecting Ashlyn and her daughter. Although, I guessed who the stalker was immediately.
I probably would have liked it more if I had read the previous books in the series. I requested the ARC and didn't realize it was the last book in the series. There was an extended epilogue with all the characters from the previous books, which I'm sure was a beautiful ending to the series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Thank you to Literally Yours PR for providing the ARC.
October 3, 2023
eARC review ✨
⭐️5
🌶️3
This is the final book in the defiant kings series and WHAT A WAY TO END IT!
Brandon Dixon is a dark storm cloud, always around with a dark presence about him. Ashlyn is this graceful and kind soul who has her own storm clouds she keeps under lock and key. A perfect match? I think yes.
This. Mans. Mouth??? Good lord. 🥵🥵🥵 I was not prepared but I should’ve been. Each book has just gotten spicier and spicier!
The constant words of affirmation was so nice to read. They were both constantly validating their feelings for one another and that they’d face everything head on.
The stalker brought the suspense factor and while I had my suspicions, I didn’t figure it out until right before he was revealed! The suspense makes the chaos, which means never a 3rd act breakup from Bella 🫶🏼.
I am so happy and so sad this is the end of this series!! Happy, because W O W it went out with a bang. Brandon Dixon might be my new favorite man in the Kingston-verse!! Sad, because I don’t want this series to end! BUT, we have a 2nd gen series coming. 😍
If you haven’t read these books yet, start at the beginning! 9 siblings, 8 have books, this one is about the “stepmother”, and the 9th sibling is the first book in the second gen series, “The Keeper.”
⭐️5
🌶️3
This is the final book in the defiant kings series and WHAT A WAY TO END IT!
Brandon Dixon is a dark storm cloud, always around with a dark presence about him. Ashlyn is this graceful and kind soul who has her own storm clouds she keeps under lock and key. A perfect match? I think yes.
This. Mans. Mouth??? Good lord. 🥵🥵🥵 I was not prepared but I should’ve been. Each book has just gotten spicier and spicier!
The constant words of affirmation was so nice to read. They were both constantly validating their feelings for one another and that they’d face everything head on.
The stalker brought the suspense factor and while I had my suspicions, I didn’t figure it out until right before he was revealed! The suspense makes the chaos, which means never a 3rd act breakup from Bella 🫶🏼.
I am so happy and so sad this is the end of this series!! Happy, because W O W it went out with a bang. Brandon Dixon might be my new favorite man in the Kingston-verse!! Sad, because I don’t want this series to end! BUT, we have a 2nd gen series coming. 😍
If you haven’t read these books yet, start at the beginning! 9 siblings, 8 have books, this one is about the “stepmother”, and the 9th sibling is the first book in the second gen series, “The Keeper.”
November 10, 2023
4.5/5⭐️
3/5🌶️
This was my first Bella Matthews book & I couldn’t get enough! Brandon & Ashlyn’s story was so good, so consuming. It instantly left me wanting more of this world. I can’t wait to go back & read the rest of the series!
This is book 5 in the Defiant Kings Series following Brandon & Ashlyn who we learn have somewhat of a past together. Now 15 yrs later, Ashlyn is a widowed single mom & finds herself being thrown together with Brandon after all of these years & he isn’t willing to let her go again. So what happens when a stalker starts to make things a little more complicated…
If there’s anything I love in a book… it’s a protective & possessive MMC & boy did Brandon deliver in that department. He was also really good with Ashlyn’s daughter, Lindy, who is a teenager. It was refreshing to read because It’s not often we get a story where the single parent of the book has older kids, which can make a new relationship difficult. I just loved their sweet little family.
Tropes:
- Second Chance
- Single Mom
- Forced Proximity
- Sports Romance
- Pro Football Player x Figure Skater
- Found Family
3/5🌶️
This was my first Bella Matthews book & I couldn’t get enough! Brandon & Ashlyn’s story was so good, so consuming. It instantly left me wanting more of this world. I can’t wait to go back & read the rest of the series!
This is book 5 in the Defiant Kings Series following Brandon & Ashlyn who we learn have somewhat of a past together. Now 15 yrs later, Ashlyn is a widowed single mom & finds herself being thrown together with Brandon after all of these years & he isn’t willing to let her go again. So what happens when a stalker starts to make things a little more complicated…
If there’s anything I love in a book… it’s a protective & possessive MMC & boy did Brandon deliver in that department. He was also really good with Ashlyn’s daughter, Lindy, who is a teenager. It was refreshing to read because It’s not often we get a story where the single parent of the book has older kids, which can make a new relationship difficult. I just loved their sweet little family.
Tropes:
- Second Chance
- Single Mom
- Forced Proximity
- Sports Romance
- Pro Football Player x Figure Skater
- Found Family
October 3, 2023
The final Kingston (first gen!!) gets her story!!...
Ashlyn has been here from the start, the super young wife of the deceased John Kingston. She's quiet, respectful towards his kids, strong, an awesome mum, an all round good person and she's just adorable!
Her hubby has been gone for over 15years now and she has spent that time alone, and if anyone deserves some love, it's Ashlyn!
Roll on Brandon, who actually has a past with her and I'm not gonna lie - I fell in love with him that first night 💞
Anyway, fast forward to present time, and we get to watch two people finally accept they deserve to be happy and that they have the chance now. Can they put their trust in each other, will the massive family accept them, will they succeed in getting their hea or will Ashlyns stalker put an end to it all?!?!
A really good read, I'm sad it's the last book but I'm excited for the next gen!
Congrats on an excellent series Bella 💞
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review.
Ashlyn has been here from the start, the super young wife of the deceased John Kingston. She's quiet, respectful towards his kids, strong, an awesome mum, an all round good person and she's just adorable!
Her hubby has been gone for over 15years now and she has spent that time alone, and if anyone deserves some love, it's Ashlyn!
Roll on Brandon, who actually has a past with her and I'm not gonna lie - I fell in love with him that first night 💞
Anyway, fast forward to present time, and we get to watch two people finally accept they deserve to be happy and that they have the chance now. Can they put their trust in each other, will the massive family accept them, will they succeed in getting their hea or will Ashlyns stalker put an end to it all?!?!
A really good read, I'm sad it's the last book but I'm excited for the next gen!
Congrats on an excellent series Bella 💞
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review.
October 5, 2023
Haven
is the fifth and final book in
Defiant Kings
series as well as the last of the first generation by Bella Matthews.
This Second Chance, Sports, Contemporary Romance follows Ashlyn Kingston wife of late John Kingston and Brandon Dixon, Maddie’s older brother, through the telling of dual POVs.
Haven was a sweet, cute yet emotional Contemporary Romance. Yet it was to be expected as Bella writes that trope so well.
When it came to following Ashlyn and Brandon's story, it had you going through all sorts of feels.
Not only in seeing them come together and have their Second Chance finally, after so long, considering the past with their shared history.
But also with the exploration into their individual pasts, that had you feeling their pain and sadness.
Being able to know where they came from, what they endured and suffered through individually. And how it impacted them to lead them onto the path they were on now, in their present lives.
By author Bella laying out their backstories, it not only had us get to know Ashlyn and Brandon's characters on a more personal level. It gave us the journey of how they were able to reconnect and help one another by being what the other needed when everything was said, done and divulged from all the secrets being let out in the open.
Even though the focus of the storyline was surrounding Ashlyn and Brandon and their Second Chance love story.
There was still other elements that came into play, since Bella ensured it wasn’t going to be all smooth sailing for the two.
On Ashlyn’s part, not only did she have her daughter Madeline ‘Lindy’ Corrine Kingston to worry about.
With the addition of drama, mystery and secrets being kept, amongst the suspenseful build surrounding it, also due to complications that arose threatening Ashlyn and Brandon’s HEA.
It was no surprise it resulted in making for a somewhat bumpy ride journey for the two.
Of course it wouldn’t be a Kingston family members story if the other Kingston members weren’t included alongside their infamous entertaining family group chat.
Simultaneously the appearances of the characters did add little bits and pieces to the story within the subplots, given the connections they shared with Ashlyn and Brandon.
Although with Brandon it mostly came from his Sister Maddie, which was sweet and adorable to see given their close sibling bond. However this time we were able to experience it from Brandon’s POV.
Within the secondary characters, the inclusion of Kroydon Hills series characters crossing over with their appearances made for a nice surprise.
Knowing that it had been a hot minute with them being sorely missed, it was great to see them and get a small update into their lives too.
Whilst reading Haven, it did give me a sense of deja vu at times from the similarities it shared with Annabelle and Declan Sinclair’s story Always Earned, Never Given IMO.
And even though it wasn’t a bad thing, however early on it led to me guessing what would happen and go down in the plot for Ashlyn and Brandon.
Guess you could say the somewhat predictability of that certain subplot had my guess being right.
But that’s not to say there wasn’t some surprise twists that Bella threw in, because there was and it definitely caught me off guard.
My only critique would be the climax, it felt a little rushed with how quickly it all came together and played out.
It would have been nice to see it play out a little more, with being paced out. Especially considering how close towards the end it all occurred.
Going from the showdown, to a few minutes later and having a HEA. It just seemed too fast and abrupt, at least for my liking.
In the end, Bella Matthews still came through with presenting a well written story that included character development, romance and a storyline that managed to carry it all through for Ashlyn and Brandon. Ultimately making Haven an enjoyable read.
And while it was bittersweet knowing this is the end to the first generation. It does have me excited to see what Bella has in store for the second generation of Kingston family and Kroydon Hills members yet to come.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This Second Chance, Sports, Contemporary Romance follows Ashlyn Kingston wife of late John Kingston and Brandon Dixon, Maddie’s older brother, through the telling of dual POVs.
Haven was a sweet, cute yet emotional Contemporary Romance. Yet it was to be expected as Bella writes that trope so well.
When it came to following Ashlyn and Brandon's story, it had you going through all sorts of feels.
Not only in seeing them come together and have their Second Chance finally, after so long, considering the past with their shared history.
But also with the exploration into their individual pasts, that had you feeling their pain and sadness.
Being able to know where they came from, what they endured and suffered through individually. And how it impacted them to lead them onto the path they were on now, in their present lives.
By author Bella laying out their backstories, it not only had us get to know Ashlyn and Brandon's characters on a more personal level. It gave us the journey of how they were able to reconnect and help one another by being what the other needed when everything was said, done and divulged from all the secrets being let out in the open.
Even though the focus of the storyline was surrounding Ashlyn and Brandon and their Second Chance love story.
There was still other elements that came into play, since Bella ensured it wasn’t going to be all smooth sailing for the two.
On Ashlyn’s part, not only did she have her daughter Madeline ‘Lindy’ Corrine Kingston to worry about.
With the addition of drama, mystery and secrets being kept, amongst the suspenseful build surrounding it, also due to complications that arose threatening Ashlyn and Brandon’s HEA.
It was no surprise it resulted in making for a somewhat bumpy ride journey for the two.
Of course it wouldn’t be a Kingston family members story if the other Kingston members weren’t included alongside their infamous entertaining family group chat.
Simultaneously the appearances of the characters did add little bits and pieces to the story within the subplots, given the connections they shared with Ashlyn and Brandon.
Although with Brandon it mostly came from his Sister Maddie, which was sweet and adorable to see given their close sibling bond. However this time we were able to experience it from Brandon’s POV.
Within the secondary characters, the inclusion of Kroydon Hills series characters crossing over with their appearances made for a nice surprise.
Knowing that it had been a hot minute with them being sorely missed, it was great to see them and get a small update into their lives too.
Whilst reading Haven, it did give me a sense of deja vu at times from the similarities it shared with Annabelle and Declan Sinclair’s story Always Earned, Never Given IMO.
And even though it wasn’t a bad thing, however early on it led to me guessing what would happen and go down in the plot for Ashlyn and Brandon.
Guess you could say the somewhat predictability of that certain subplot had my guess being right.
But that’s not to say there wasn’t some surprise twists that Bella threw in, because there was and it definitely caught me off guard.
My only critique would be the climax, it felt a little rushed with how quickly it all came together and played out.
It would have been nice to see it play out a little more, with being paced out. Especially considering how close towards the end it all occurred.
Going from the showdown, to a few minutes later and having a HEA. It just seemed too fast and abrupt, at least for my liking.
In the end, Bella Matthews still came through with presenting a well written story that included character development, romance and a storyline that managed to carry it all through for Ashlyn and Brandon. Ultimately making Haven an enjoyable read.
And while it was bittersweet knowing this is the end to the first generation. It does have me excited to see what Bella has in store for the second generation of Kingston family and Kroydon Hills members yet to come.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2023
4.5⭐️, 3🌶️
I hate that they only give you whole numbers for ratings, because this book was close to perfection.
If you've been reading the Defiant Kings series, I'm sure you were just as excited as I was when we found out the last book would be about Brandon Dixon, Maddie's older brother. But I had no idea how much I'd love Ashlyn Kingston, the very young stepmother to all our favorite Kingstons. And the two of them together, so perfect. 🥰🥵
Their back story just made it that much sweeter, and to say I'm excited for the second gen books that start in December would be a gross understatement. I cannot WAIT for Easton and Lindy's book! 😬😬
If this is your first book of Bella's, I'd recommend starting from the beginning of the Defiant Kings series with "Caged". It would probably be even better to start at the very beginning of the interconnected books to this series (I believe All In jumps things off) so you know all the side characters, but it's not necessary. I'm personally going to be starting my reading of Bella's backlist now that this series is over and I'm waiting for the next installment to start, and I got through it fine without reading the others first. But there are a TON of side characters, so if it annoys you not to know everybody's story, you'll have some work to do. 😋
Back to the story, I absolutely love Bella's writing. Every once in a while I get a little caught up in the insta-lovey-ness of the books, but there's always just enough back story and previous connection between the MCs to make it tolerable. And Brandon and Ashlyn had such a sad, unrequited back story that the insta-love made complete sense. Bella writes funny, sweet, gripping, suspenseful stories with HEAs that make all the work to get there worth it. And she doesn't seem to be a fan of third act breakups, which makes me love her that much more. 😅 When those men fall, they fall hard, and there's not much anyone can do to get them to walk away. And we LOVE them for that!
One of the things I loved was that Brandon and Ashlyn's daughter Lindy already had such a sweet relationship, and I love a good single mom trope, so this story was pretty perfect to me. Watching him become a dad was very sweet, and pretty funny considering it was to a smartass teenager. 😏 Their interactions were a great addition, and I liked that she was clearly such an important part of Brandon and Ashlyn's relationship.
Also, the fact that she started calling him "big guy" on her own, come on! So sweet. You'll get it once you read it, but I loved that. ❤️
And the family group chats just get better in every book. I was literally laughing out loud at multiple points, but those chats get me every time. And the spouse chats now? I can't wait to see the kids' group chats in the next series! 🤣
The spice, as always, is wonderful. It's nothing crazy, but it'll have you blushing and looking around if you're reading it in public. 🫣🫠🥵😉
I would absolutely recommend this book, and any other books by Bella, to anyone who likes to read a well-written romance with plot, spice, and great characters. Bella has built a huge world of characters that connect and interact with each other so perfectly in each book, and I can't wait to see where these stories go in the future.
***I received an ARC for this book in exchange for a 100% honest review.***
I hate that they only give you whole numbers for ratings, because this book was close to perfection.
If you've been reading the Defiant Kings series, I'm sure you were just as excited as I was when we found out the last book would be about Brandon Dixon, Maddie's older brother. But I had no idea how much I'd love Ashlyn Kingston, the very young stepmother to all our favorite Kingstons. And the two of them together, so perfect. 🥰🥵
Their back story just made it that much sweeter, and to say I'm excited for the second gen books that start in December would be a gross understatement. I cannot WAIT for Easton and Lindy's book! 😬😬
If this is your first book of Bella's, I'd recommend starting from the beginning of the Defiant Kings series with "Caged". It would probably be even better to start at the very beginning of the interconnected books to this series (I believe All In jumps things off) so you know all the side characters, but it's not necessary. I'm personally going to be starting my reading of Bella's backlist now that this series is over and I'm waiting for the next installment to start, and I got through it fine without reading the others first. But there are a TON of side characters, so if it annoys you not to know everybody's story, you'll have some work to do. 😋
Back to the story, I absolutely love Bella's writing. Every once in a while I get a little caught up in the insta-lovey-ness of the books, but there's always just enough back story and previous connection between the MCs to make it tolerable. And Brandon and Ashlyn had such a sad, unrequited back story that the insta-love made complete sense. Bella writes funny, sweet, gripping, suspenseful stories with HEAs that make all the work to get there worth it. And she doesn't seem to be a fan of third act breakups, which makes me love her that much more. 😅 When those men fall, they fall hard, and there's not much anyone can do to get them to walk away. And we LOVE them for that!
One of the things I loved was that Brandon and Ashlyn's daughter Lindy already had such a sweet relationship, and I love a good single mom trope, so this story was pretty perfect to me. Watching him become a dad was very sweet, and pretty funny considering it was to a smartass teenager. 😏 Their interactions were a great addition, and I liked that she was clearly such an important part of Brandon and Ashlyn's relationship.
Also, the fact that she started calling him "big guy" on her own, come on! So sweet. You'll get it once you read it, but I loved that. ❤️
And the family group chats just get better in every book. I was literally laughing out loud at multiple points, but those chats get me every time. And the spouse chats now? I can't wait to see the kids' group chats in the next series! 🤣
The spice, as always, is wonderful. It's nothing crazy, but it'll have you blushing and looking around if you're reading it in public. 🫣🫠🥵😉
I would absolutely recommend this book, and any other books by Bella, to anyone who likes to read a well-written romance with plot, spice, and great characters. Bella has built a huge world of characters that connect and interact with each other so perfectly in each book, and I can't wait to see where these stories go in the future.
***I received an ARC for this book in exchange for a 100% honest review.***
October 12, 2023
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Stand-alone: Yes**
Author: Bella Matthews
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 3/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Ashlyn and Brandon
Trope(s): Sport Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Forced Proximity, Second Chance Romance
“ We have history.” he presses his forehead to mine and Britt’s meeting. “Andfuck yes, it’s messy. But baby, you and me, we’re meant to be. Twin flames. One day you’re gonna share your pain with me. You’re gonna let me help you carry it. I’m willing to wait because I know you’ll tell me when you’re ready. And I know better than anyone how difficult it is. We’re survivors, Ashlyn, and I think we both know how to fight for what we want….
Haven is the 5th and final book in the Defiant Kings Series. And, it is the book I never knew I needed. If you followed the Kingston’s, Ashlyn and Brandon are familiar faces and your new favorite couple. How Bella developed their backstory and tied this bow together was *chefs kiss*. Gah, I already knew Brandon was pure gold, but holy ovary explosion. Ashlyn’s story is tragic, but man does she have heart and soul. As always, I devoured Bella’s words whole. I wanted to crawl through the pages. I have loved this family. I am obsessed with them. I CANNOT wait for the next gen.
Ashlyn spent her youth striving for Olympic Gold. Living under the microscope of her very demanding coach. On the eve of heading to Paris to compete on the US Women’s Figure Skating Team, she and her best friend Nina head to a college party. When Nina leaves Ashlyn to her own devices, she meets the very charming and engaging Brandon. And, they spend the night chatting it up, exchanging numbers to keep in touch.
Ashlyn’s life goes sideways and Brandon fulfills his NFL dreams. However, they both end up in the same city where Brandon plays for the football team Ashlyn’s new husband owns.
Fifteen years later, although their lives are intertwined they have done their best to avoid one another. And, no one knows of their past.
Ashlyn, widowed for years and raising her daughter amongst the Kingston’s has found her calling and has opened Ever After Events Planning with Jules.
Brandon is on the brink of making a major life change- possible retirement.
When they are stuck in an elevator together, the conversation that is years in the making takes place, giving them their second chance.
Que in a very nosy, involved family, a spunky daughter, and a minor stalker issue.
Stand-alone: Yes**
Author: Bella Matthews
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 3/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Ashlyn and Brandon
Trope(s): Sport Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Forced Proximity, Second Chance Romance
“ We have history.” he presses his forehead to mine and Britt’s meeting. “Andfuck yes, it’s messy. But baby, you and me, we’re meant to be. Twin flames. One day you’re gonna share your pain with me. You’re gonna let me help you carry it. I’m willing to wait because I know you’ll tell me when you’re ready. And I know better than anyone how difficult it is. We’re survivors, Ashlyn, and I think we both know how to fight for what we want….
Haven is the 5th and final book in the Defiant Kings Series. And, it is the book I never knew I needed. If you followed the Kingston’s, Ashlyn and Brandon are familiar faces and your new favorite couple. How Bella developed their backstory and tied this bow together was *chefs kiss*. Gah, I already knew Brandon was pure gold, but holy ovary explosion. Ashlyn’s story is tragic, but man does she have heart and soul. As always, I devoured Bella’s words whole. I wanted to crawl through the pages. I have loved this family. I am obsessed with them. I CANNOT wait for the next gen.
Ashlyn spent her youth striving for Olympic Gold. Living under the microscope of her very demanding coach. On the eve of heading to Paris to compete on the US Women’s Figure Skating Team, she and her best friend Nina head to a college party. When Nina leaves Ashlyn to her own devices, she meets the very charming and engaging Brandon. And, they spend the night chatting it up, exchanging numbers to keep in touch.
Ashlyn’s life goes sideways and Brandon fulfills his NFL dreams. However, they both end up in the same city where Brandon plays for the football team Ashlyn’s new husband owns.
Fifteen years later, although their lives are intertwined they have done their best to avoid one another. And, no one knows of their past.
Ashlyn, widowed for years and raising her daughter amongst the Kingston’s has found her calling and has opened Ever After Events Planning with Jules.
Brandon is on the brink of making a major life change- possible retirement.
When they are stuck in an elevator together, the conversation that is years in the making takes place, giving them their second chance.
Que in a very nosy, involved family, a spunky daughter, and a minor stalker issue.
October 23, 2023
**ARC REVIEW**
"We're survivors, Ashlyn, and I think we both know how to fight for what we want. For what matters. You matter. I'll do whatever I have to, to protect you. To earn you. To keep you... Forever."
Haven is the final book in the Defiant Kings series by Bella Matthews. It's easy to read as a stand-alone but I would definitely recommend reading them in order if you can.
My rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
If you like these tropes, you will enjoy reading this book :)
🏈 Second Chance
🦋 Grumpy/Sunshine
🏈 Touch Her & Die
🦋 Stalker Romance
🏈 Forced Proximity
🦋 Scarred Hero
🏈 Sports Romance
Please read the trigger warnings if you have any!
Brandon Dixon and Ashlyn Kingston have wanted each other since the first moment they met at a frat party when they were younger but horrible circumstances tore them apart. They were brought back together because Ashlyn was married the late John Kingston and Brandon's sister Maddie is married to Hudson Kingston (John's son).
When Ashlyn and her daughter Madeline (aka Lindy) are targetted by a stalker, Brandon is there to protect them no matter what. They can only stay away from each other for so long....
Another AMAZING book by Bella!!! This one made me so much more emotional because of the back story to what happened to Ashlyn all those years ago and why she just stopped messaging Brandon. A lot of it had me in tears to keep the tissues handy.
Ashlyn is one strong, brave woman who loves her daughter fiercly and would do anything to protect her.
Brandon Dixon - THIS MAN!!! I love how much he loved Lindy as if she was his daughter and how much he wanted to protect Ashlyn and Lindy from anyone and anything that would cause harm to them.
Their chemistry was sooooooo HOT!!!!! and OMG he can call me "BABY" anytime. I was swooning everytime he called her that
Here are some of my fav quotes:
"I want inside that sweet body, baby. You ready for me or do I need to eat that pretty pu**y first?"
"This woman. She's so much stronger than she gives herself credit for. She's a survivor. She's mine."
"Take it, Ashlyn, Take what you need and give me what I fu**ing want like a good girl."
This book kept me on the edge of my seat with the suspenseful moments!!!!
Overall, this was another amazing book by Bella and I am so excited for the 2nd gen series coming next!!!
Thank you to Bella for kindly sending me this book to read and review. This book is my own honest opinion on the book :)
"We're survivors, Ashlyn, and I think we both know how to fight for what we want. For what matters. You matter. I'll do whatever I have to, to protect you. To earn you. To keep you... Forever."
Haven is the final book in the Defiant Kings series by Bella Matthews. It's easy to read as a stand-alone but I would definitely recommend reading them in order if you can.
My rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
If you like these tropes, you will enjoy reading this book :)
🏈 Second Chance
🦋 Grumpy/Sunshine
🏈 Touch Her & Die
🦋 Stalker Romance
🏈 Forced Proximity
🦋 Scarred Hero
🏈 Sports Romance
Please read the trigger warnings if you have any!
Brandon Dixon and Ashlyn Kingston have wanted each other since the first moment they met at a frat party when they were younger but horrible circumstances tore them apart. They were brought back together because Ashlyn was married the late John Kingston and Brandon's sister Maddie is married to Hudson Kingston (John's son).
When Ashlyn and her daughter Madeline (aka Lindy) are targetted by a stalker, Brandon is there to protect them no matter what. They can only stay away from each other for so long....
Another AMAZING book by Bella!!! This one made me so much more emotional because of the back story to what happened to Ashlyn all those years ago and why she just stopped messaging Brandon. A lot of it had me in tears to keep the tissues handy.
Ashlyn is one strong, brave woman who loves her daughter fiercly and would do anything to protect her.
Brandon Dixon - THIS MAN!!! I love how much he loved Lindy as if she was his daughter and how much he wanted to protect Ashlyn and Lindy from anyone and anything that would cause harm to them.
Their chemistry was sooooooo HOT!!!!! and OMG he can call me "BABY" anytime. I was swooning everytime he called her that
Here are some of my fav quotes:
"I want inside that sweet body, baby. You ready for me or do I need to eat that pretty pu**y first?"
"This woman. She's so much stronger than she gives herself credit for. She's a survivor. She's mine."
"Take it, Ashlyn, Take what you need and give me what I fu**ing want like a good girl."
This book kept me on the edge of my seat with the suspenseful moments!!!!
Overall, this was another amazing book by Bella and I am so excited for the 2nd gen series coming next!!!
Thank you to Bella for kindly sending me this book to read and review. This book is my own honest opinion on the book :)
November 2, 2023
Ashlyn and Brandon knew each other a lifetime ago. They have spent the better part of the last ten years avoiding each other at family gatherings. His sister married into the Kingston family and Ashlyn was the former patriarch's wife. All it takes for them is a power outage and being stuck in an elevator together for sparks to fly.
I loved this book. Brandon and Ashlyn came with their own past histories, but really became each other's halves. Brandon is so kind and caring and he loves so fiercely. The passion and chemistry between Brandon and Ashlyn is off the charts and you can see they really care about each other. I loved the relationship Brandon had for Ashlyn's daughter, Lindy, and really became a positive role model for her. He stepped into the roll of parent-like figure so well and I loved him asking Lindy for permission to marry her mom.
I loved how the Kingston family cares so much for Ashlyn and Lindy and all they want is for them to be happy. We have seen Lindy grow up through the entire Defiant Kings series and it was nice to see her character develop. I know that she will be in the next generation of Kroyden Hills and I look forward to that. could have been unsupportive, but they cheered Ashlyn (and Brandon) on.
This was a great finish to the Defiant Kings series. It could be read as a standalone, but I think it would be so much better going back and reading through the whole series. Thank you to Valentine PR for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
Read if you like: second chance romance, single mom, romantic suspense, football romance, found family
I loved this book. Brandon and Ashlyn came with their own past histories, but really became each other's halves. Brandon is so kind and caring and he loves so fiercely. The passion and chemistry between Brandon and Ashlyn is off the charts and you can see they really care about each other. I loved the relationship Brandon had for Ashlyn's daughter, Lindy, and really became a positive role model for her. He stepped into the roll of parent-like figure so well and I loved him asking Lindy for permission to marry her mom.
I loved how the Kingston family cares so much for Ashlyn and Lindy and all they want is for them to be happy. We have seen Lindy grow up through the entire Defiant Kings series and it was nice to see her character develop. I know that she will be in the next generation of Kroyden Hills and I look forward to that. could have been unsupportive, but they cheered Ashlyn (and Brandon) on.
This was a great finish to the Defiant Kings series. It could be read as a standalone, but I think it would be so much better going back and reading through the whole series. Thank you to Valentine PR for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
Read if you like: second chance romance, single mom, romantic suspense, football romance, found family
November 1, 2023
I loved this book from start to finish.
Second chance romances always do it for me if written right and oh. my. god. was this one written right.
I had only read their back story and I was already in love with Brandon and Ashlyn. Individually and together! And then seeing everything else come together was simply perfect. I lover their bond with each other, his bond with their* daughter (even if she's not biologically his, she's his.) and the entire family...
Ashlyn and Brandon both had some trauma but it's beautiful how they can be each other's safe place. Home. Haven. They're twin flames, just like Brandon same and they belong together. I'm so happy they got their happy ending. Even if took a couple years long detour. Life has a funny way of working out, huh?
I don't even have words to describe how much I loved this book. And I cannot wait to start the new series focused on the new generation. Starting with 'The Keeper' after the ending of this one. I just NEED to read about Easton and Madeline. Like NOW. Please!
“I love you, big guy.”
“With every beat of my heart, baby.” 🫶🏻
Thank you so much to Valentine PR for the free book. All opinions are my own!
Second chance romances always do it for me if written right and oh. my. god. was this one written right.
I had only read their back story and I was already in love with Brandon and Ashlyn. Individually and together! And then seeing everything else come together was simply perfect. I lover their bond with each other, his bond with their* daughter (even if she's not biologically his, she's his.) and the entire family...
Ashlyn and Brandon both had some trauma but it's beautiful how they can be each other's safe place. Home. Haven. They're twin flames, just like Brandon same and they belong together. I'm so happy they got their happy ending. Even if took a couple years long detour. Life has a funny way of working out, huh?
I don't even have words to describe how much I loved this book. And I cannot wait to start the new series focused on the new generation. Starting with 'The Keeper' after the ending of this one. I just NEED to read about Easton and Madeline. Like NOW. Please!
“I love you, big guy.”
“With every beat of my heart, baby.” 🫶🏻
Thank you so much to Valentine PR for the free book. All opinions are my own!
November 1, 2023
I put this book on my TBR because of a reel on Instagram. It’s number five in the Defiant King series. I haven’t read any of the other books and I’m not sure it’s a bad thing. Yes there may be some background I’ve missed and other secondary character stories. But some of those character are from different series so it doesn’t feel like a big deal. However, I would like to go and read some of this books because I like the characters and writing.
This particular book is follows Ashlyn and Brandon. They first meet as young adults and have an instant connection and attractions. But circumstances pull them apart. Many years later, they seem to have a second chance at what they missed out on. The feelings, chemistry, and seamless way they fit into each others lives and hearts is what I love in a book. There is suspense and an external threats that can derail their road to happily ever after. The epilogue from each Kingston siblings’ POV was a great way to end on generation’s chapter! I love the set up for the next gen series!
Tropes:
Second Chance
Insta-list and -love
Single parent
Protective, alpha, football hero
Characters in their mid 30s
Found family
Strong friendship
This particular book is follows Ashlyn and Brandon. They first meet as young adults and have an instant connection and attractions. But circumstances pull them apart. Many years later, they seem to have a second chance at what they missed out on. The feelings, chemistry, and seamless way they fit into each others lives and hearts is what I love in a book. There is suspense and an external threats that can derail their road to happily ever after. The epilogue from each Kingston siblings’ POV was a great way to end on generation’s chapter! I love the set up for the next gen series!
Tropes:
Second Chance
Insta-list and -love
Single parent
Protective, alpha, football hero
Characters in their mid 30s
Found family
Strong friendship
October 12, 2023
[“I’m trying to let you have the control here. I want you to feel safe. I want—
“I want your hands on my body. I want your mouth on mine. I want to feel you for days, Brandon. I. Want. Everything."]
🤗 Aahh! The whole Kingston family are all finally in love! Haven got me right in the feels. The second chance opportunity for Brandon and Ashlyn was perfect and so sweet.
No idea these two had met, not too long before Ashlyn became a Kingston and step mom/mom to so many kids 😅. One of those step kids just so happens to be Brandon's sister, Maddies husband.
Ashlyn met Brandon at a party before he was drafted to her late husbands football team, and she was going for the gold in the Olympics, figure skating. Sparks ignited between them but quickly fizzled.
Tragedy strikes Ashlyn and the abuse she has endured only gets worse and she cuts off Brandon. Now, the timing might be right for them-15 years later . Except, there's someone who is not interested in seeing Ashlyn get her HEA with Brandon.
“I would have given you safety and security. I would have given you fucking everything,”
I loved how the feelings were already there, and they moved fast once they said lets do this. An elevator may be owed a thank you. Brandon is so protective of Ashlyn and her daughter, Lindy. He brings safety to Ashlyn, the only thing shes wanted. The relationship between Brandon and Lindy was really sweet and he filled the father role for.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next generation and the next couple has me so excited !!
“I want your hands on my body. I want your mouth on mine. I want to feel you for days, Brandon. I. Want. Everything."]
🤗 Aahh! The whole Kingston family are all finally in love! Haven got me right in the feels. The second chance opportunity for Brandon and Ashlyn was perfect and so sweet.
No idea these two had met, not too long before Ashlyn became a Kingston and step mom/mom to so many kids 😅. One of those step kids just so happens to be Brandon's sister, Maddies husband.
Ashlyn met Brandon at a party before he was drafted to her late husbands football team, and she was going for the gold in the Olympics, figure skating. Sparks ignited between them but quickly fizzled.
Tragedy strikes Ashlyn and the abuse she has endured only gets worse and she cuts off Brandon. Now, the timing might be right for them-15 years later . Except, there's someone who is not interested in seeing Ashlyn get her HEA with Brandon.
“I would have given you safety and security. I would have given you fucking everything,”
I loved how the feelings were already there, and they moved fast once they said lets do this. An elevator may be owed a thank you. Brandon is so protective of Ashlyn and her daughter, Lindy. He brings safety to Ashlyn, the only thing shes wanted. The relationship between Brandon and Lindy was really sweet and he filled the father role for.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next generation and the next couple has me so excited !!
October 6, 2023
5🌟 2🌶️
An amazing ending, to an incredible series. Bella, you killed it with Haven!!! Best out of the series! 👏🏼👏🏼
Ashlyn and Brandon lived up to be so much more than I ever expected. Their second chance story was so sweet and truly this couple are a match made by the Gods themselves. Their chemistry was off the charts from the moment they met. And I LOVED that they both pined after he each other the whole time they weren’t together. Ugh, mutual pining is so good, so I love that that was a trope. Adding in a stalker to the plot, and we’ve got a romantic suspense!
This was honestly my favorite out of the entire series, and I’m so sad to this come to an end! 🥹 it’s bittersweet. But I loved the little teaser we got for Easton and Lindy. Next gen is going to be so good!! I’m so excited for it, and all of the amazing stories to come. 🥰
An amazing ending, to an incredible series. Bella, you killed it with Haven!!! Best out of the series! 👏🏼👏🏼
Ashlyn and Brandon lived up to be so much more than I ever expected. Their second chance story was so sweet and truly this couple are a match made by the Gods themselves. Their chemistry was off the charts from the moment they met. And I LOVED that they both pined after he each other the whole time they weren’t together. Ugh, mutual pining is so good, so I love that that was a trope. Adding in a stalker to the plot, and we’ve got a romantic suspense!
This was honestly my favorite out of the entire series, and I’m so sad to this come to an end! 🥹 it’s bittersweet. But I loved the little teaser we got for Easton and Lindy. Next gen is going to be so good!! I’m so excited for it, and all of the amazing stories to come. 🥰
October 6, 2023
Well I didn’t think anyone could knock Beckett Kingston off the top spot but that was before Brandon Dixon came along!
This is the last book in the Defiant Kings series.
I loved everything about this, I read it in under a day I couldn’t put it down.
Ashlyn and Brandon met at a college party 15 years ago and hit it off straight away and we get to see a bit of that back story. But Ashlyn has some life changing events take place and she doesn’t see Brandon for a decade.
But Brandon signs on with the Kings Football team and his sister is now married to Ashlyn’s step son so they are now back in each others lives. They have been avoiding each other until one night they get stuck in an elevator and it changes everything.
The chemistry between them is just 🔥🥵
If you love the following then read this it’s sooo good.
🏈Second Chance
🦋Grumpy/Sunshine
🏈Touch Her & Die
🦋Stalker Romance
🏈Forced Proximity
🦋Scarred Hero
🏈Sports Romance
Also the group text conversations between the Kingston siblings always makes me LOL!
I’m looking forward to reading about the next gen.
This is the last book in the Defiant Kings series.
I loved everything about this, I read it in under a day I couldn’t put it down.
Ashlyn and Brandon met at a college party 15 years ago and hit it off straight away and we get to see a bit of that back story. But Ashlyn has some life changing events take place and she doesn’t see Brandon for a decade.
But Brandon signs on with the Kings Football team and his sister is now married to Ashlyn’s step son so they are now back in each others lives. They have been avoiding each other until one night they get stuck in an elevator and it changes everything.
The chemistry between them is just 🔥🥵
If you love the following then read this it’s sooo good.
🏈Second Chance
🦋Grumpy/Sunshine
🏈Touch Her & Die
🦋Stalker Romance
🏈Forced Proximity
🦋Scarred Hero
🏈Sports Romance
Also the group text conversations between the Kingston siblings always makes me LOL!
I’m looking forward to reading about the next gen.
October 9, 2023
Sooo good!!!
I think Brandon and Ashlyn's book is my favorite out of this entire series! I felt their romance was genuine and heartfelt. They had a history dating back to college until their communication stopped.
Brandon and Ashlyn finally have a shot at a second chance and go for it. Their chemistry was electrifying and amazing! I loved how protective Brandon was over Ashlyn and Lindy. I enjoyed seeing that Brandon's and Ashlyn's feelings never stopped for each other, they were just put on the back burner until they reunited.
I literally could not put this down once I started reading. I read it in a day because I was hooked until the end. I am so excited for Bella's second generation series!
I think Brandon and Ashlyn's book is my favorite out of this entire series! I felt their romance was genuine and heartfelt. They had a history dating back to college until their communication stopped.
Brandon and Ashlyn finally have a shot at a second chance and go for it. Their chemistry was electrifying and amazing! I loved how protective Brandon was over Ashlyn and Lindy. I enjoyed seeing that Brandon's and Ashlyn's feelings never stopped for each other, they were just put on the back burner until they reunited.
I literally could not put this down once I started reading. I read it in a day because I was hooked until the end. I am so excited for Bella's second generation series!
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