Bloom: Part Two

The Smoky Vale Alliance #4

by Gianni Holmes

He is truth. My entire existence is a lie.

Together we're an impossible equation with no solution.

I thought I could outrun my past, bury it in the life I built as a surgeon.

But the moment I fell for Bloom, everything unraveled.

Now my face is everywhere, and they’re coming for me.

I should run, but Bloom is my weakness, my obsession.

Staying puts him in danger. Leaving will destroy him.

How do I choose between the man I love and the life I can’t escape?

Is it selfish of me to ask him to leave his family behind and go on the run with me?

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Dark Romance, Found Family, Dark, Contemporary, LGBT

420 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 14, 2025

About the author

Gianni Holmes is a USA TODAY Bestselling author who's embracing her love for literature by wielding the pen and creating stories of her own. She's the author of the popular series The Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale and The Taking Care series. Gianni is a former teacher of Spanish Language and Hispanic Literature.

These days she can be found writing books, hanging out with her readers, and raising her daughter as a single mother. You can keep in touch with her in the following places:

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/authorgiannih...

Newsletter: https://www.gianniholmesauthor.com/ne...

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/giannigems

Reviews

[Jay H (Hiatus)]

TEN MORE DAYS TO GO!!!!

[V · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5-4 stars, rounded. I’ve been waiting for this book for ages, but the outcome wasn’t as satisfying as I wanted it to be. I loved Bloom and Logan as usual, but this didn’t elicit as much emotion from me as I expected. Is it because of how many delays there were? Is it because I’ve simply lost a spark in reading? Or is it because there’s genuinely something *missing* in this book? I doubt it’s the last, for I have been in a slump, BUT I wished I enjoyed this more than I did. However, I still love this series and can’t wait for the next book, whenever that may be.

This was also extremely dark—definitely the darkest in the series so far. A few side characters were explored further, and I can safely say I despised each one of them. If you know, you know.

[BookSafety Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.

“Bloom.” His name was a litany, the beginning of a prayer I would be saying for the rest of my life.

The angst got angstier in this one and I couldn’t put the book down to save my life, even when it was stressing me out so badly. I stayed up all night reading, only stopping when I accidentally fell asleep mid page.

Although I didn’t mind Logan in book 1, I didn’t love him either, but that changed in this book. He was just all in, loving every part of Bloom, even the objectively horrible parts. It’s so nice when characters are supportive and understanding of their partner’s insecurities, helping them feel secure and building trust, instead of getting upset. Bloom really needed that, and Logan delivered.

There was no lack of action or mortal peril in this book either, and I had so much fun reading it.

I’m not always in the mood for dark romance, but this duology had me by the short and curlies and I would absolutely recommend them if you’re okay with the contents.

There were moments when I wondered if Bloom truly loved me or if his flawed brain had picked me for other reasons I still couldn’t come up with. But in that moment, the force of his love engulfed me, raw and undiluted.

⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️

⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Established couple
Obsession
Size difference
Motorcycle club
Secret identity
Past trauma
Goth MC
Personality disorder
‘Good boy’
Big age gap
Hands-free orgasms
Sex toy use
Mortal peril
Found family
Therapy
Loud moaner

⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
MC hospitalized
Prescription drug use
Details of past abuse of MC by parents
Explicit sexual content
Penetration without lube
Mention of past SC overdose
Blood consumption
Licking bleeding wound
Alcohol consumption
Jealousy and insecurity
Graphic violence
MC accidentally stabbing other MC during distress (minor injury)
Minor spankings
Gun violence
Attempted murder of MCs
MC killing minor SC off page
Degrading comments during sex
Mention of homophobic family
MC’s lover killed (past)
Mentions of past physical abuse and neglect of MC
Mentions of past (believed) rape of MC (didn’t happen)
Misconduct by health professional (SC)
SC severely injured (gunshot wounds, on page)
MC kidnapped and held captive
MC stripped naked and restrained (by bad guy)
MCs injured (beaten, hit by car, shot)

⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: Bloom is insecure and jealous and briefly misinterprets a situation, thinking Logan is cheating on him (he isn’t). Solved quickly
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Dark romance
Pairing: M/M
< b>Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 19 and (I think) 40
Series: Duology, interconnected series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 420
Happy ending: Yes


He brings out the worst in me. I know it, and yet I can’t walk away.

I’d fallen head over heels in obsession with the stubborn, unsmiling man. How far would I go for this one who looked at me with hearts in his eyes and touched me gently like I was made from glass?



You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...

[NitaBee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bloom part 1 showed us Blooms horrific beginnings. It also introduced us again to trauma surgeon Dr Logan Collier. Bloom, a young, feral goth biker, decides Logan is his.

Part 1 ended with a dramatic and violent hospital siege, and a secret revealed regarding Logan.

“As the orderly wheeled me from the room, Logan whispered, “I’ll be waiting for you. I’ll always wait for you.”
And I knew—I knew he would be because if there was anyone I could count on to keep his word, it was Logan.
I love you.”

Ok onto part two!! I have been waiting for what feels like forever for this conclusion of Bloom.

Logan - his secret is revealed to us, the reader , about that mysterious Agosti family that he had turned his back on.
He’s protective of Bloom, views him as vulnerable . They both have this crazed possessiveness over each other.

“Bloom, you know another person can’t own you, right?”
“I don’t mind. I want him to own me. If I could tattoo his name on my soul, I would. I don’t expect you to understand, but Logan gets it.”

Bloom views Logan is his , forever. He is willing to change and do whatever to keep him.

“You are incapable of loving anyone! You are a sociopath with an obsessive love disorder!”

Logan’s secret witness protection life mixed with Blooms insecurities are a catalyst to violence and the truth being uncovered to Blooms found family of bikers and close friends.

This book is action packed and romance /smut filled. The sexy times are hawt. Bloom and Logan can’t keep their hands off each other.

“He was way too tight and needed more spit, but we were running out of time.
“You need to open the door this instant.” The handle jiggled. “Unless authorized, these doors should never be locked for safety reasons.”

There’s the sketchy side characters I don’t trust and I was proven right.

“But as much as I would have loved to spread you out beneath me and take you over and over until you forget about him, the only thing I care about is the science of your mind, so your virtue is safe with me, sweetheart.”

Ugh shudder and vomit emoji.

“Can you believe that ****** who prevented me from being with the man I’ve loved for years, is now fucking some pretty boy he met in prison?”

The betrayal is strong and no redemption in sight for most side characters.

What I liked about this book is that the love never wavered between Bloom and Logan. They have a beautiful well deserved happily ever after.

“You’re my everything,” I whispered. “You know that, right?” Bloom’s smile was soft, his cheeks flushed. “Show me,” he said, his voice a breathy challenge.

I really enjoy this series!!
Waiting for potential future books :-
Sven and hot cop
Sarge and Chris
The other cop and the straight cop
The twins and maybe a third ?
Winter and that reverend / father
Joel needs someone too… Emil? 🤔
The prisoner and the pretty boy Gabriele.
Ooh and I forgot Saint and his straight friend? But what happened with Dove?

[Renae Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the perfect conclusion to Bloom and Logan's incredible story. I was so curious about how things would go after the shocking reveal of Logan's past at the end of the previous story. I did not expect his background to be so dark due to his entire demeanor giving you the opposite impression.

This reveal changes the dynamic and tone of part two of their story. Not only does Logan have to protect Bloom from his inner demons, but adding the mafia is an entirely different animal he must contain.

Overall this was a fun, entertaining, explosive, and unpredictable mafia romance that I could not get enough of. I love Logan and Bloom's mutual primal devotion that dictates their every breath for one another. They are perfect for one another and will destroy anyone and everything that gets in their way. I love the darkly possessive and protective tendencies of both Logan and Bloom. Nothing will stop them from protecting the other.

I cannot wait for Sarge's book. I know that one will completely break my heart. I love this series and cannot wait to see these characters again.

*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***

[kaye taz · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
format: audiobook
narration: 🎤🎤🎤.5/5

this was a really satisfying end for logan and bloom. i do think it dragged out a little at the end, and brought in way too many side characters, but i still enjoyed it a lot. i love the way both clubs rallied around our couple.

but, gianni holmes, you teased us with fisting and dp and did not follow through, i’m very upset LOL.

[Paulina | bitofabookcase · Rating 4 out of 5]

You have to understand that I simply can't rate stories of Smoky Vale objectively, because I love all those bikers and their men too much.
It's a 4,5* book for me -- I adore Bloom and I had big expectations.

[The Secret Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: dark romance, MM
Tropes / tags: bikers, age gap, past trauma / abuse

The intensity and suspense was definitely amped up in this second part of Bloom and Logan's story!

I'm so happy that these two got the time and space to fully get their story told - and it was definitely worth the wait! I have to admit that I first had my doubts about how they would work as a couple, but they balanced each other out and turned out to be a perfect match. Was their relationship healthy? Not so much, but it was intense and entertaining, and they clearly felt deeply for each other. I liked how Logan showed that even if he might seem calm and collected on the surface, he could be very obsessive and possessive when it came to Bloom.

Both Bloom and Logan had been through a lot, and it was difficult at times to read about their pasts. I didn't expect Logan's past, or how he kept his identity and past a secret from everyone, but I liked what it added to the story. There were a lot of outside factors that kept threatening them, and the suspense kept building all throughout the story. It was a wild and slightly unhinged ride, that certainly kept me invested and on my toes.

The character development was fantastic, I loved seeing Bloom coming more into himself and finding his identity. Logan was good for him, but it was Bloom that put in the work and started opening up to the people around him. The way he allowed himself to be vulnerable with Logan was everything, and it was honestly not something I expected to see from him at the beginning of their story.

It was great to finally see Bloom and Logan get their hard won and well deserved HEA, even if I'll miss Bloom's questionable and amusing seduction methods. I loved being back in Smoky Vale and spending some time with these bikers and their found family, and I already look forward to going back there for Sarge and Winter's stories!

-
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.

[bookingcrazzyy · Rating 5 out of 5]

"But one thing I know for sure is that you showed me that I didn't have to be anything other than myself to be loved"

Oh my sweet baby Bloom. I think he's like all of us in wanting someone to love every part of you and boy does Logan do a great job at that.

Bloom Pt 2 takes us on a wild ride as Bloom is still healing from the aftermath of the events of the first book. And Logan is still keeping his secrets about his true identity. With more being uncovered about who Logan really is and outside threats to the couple, the author really shaped up a great showing of not only what Bloom and Logan would do for each other, but what the other club members would do for them as well. I LOVED seeing all of my bikers again.

It may be obsessive love and it may be toxic, but no one is more perfect for each other than Logan and Bloom. Throughout the whole book you see what they would not only risk for each other but give up for each other.

Gah I just loved everything about the conclusion of Bloom and Logan's story. I would read 50 more books about them

[what_emmareadnext · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting so patiently for Bloom’s part 2 and Gianni has rewarded us wonderfully with this book!! It’s amazing!

I have loved this beautiful little monster with all my heart since he was first introduced with his unhinged behaviour and utter obsession with Dr Collier. Logan is the perfect match for Bloom. He may be a calm and collected Doctor on the outside, but really he’s just as crazily obsessed with Bloom. They are perfect for each other.

I loved this book as it gave us more backstory for Logan and explored their relationship more. They are insatiable for each other and the touch-him-and-die vibes are off the page with this couple!! I love that, as the Enforcer, Bloom is cruel, cold and vicious when needed, but for Logan, he is soft, sweet and needy.

We also find out more of Blooms past, and realise just how vulnerable he is. This book champions found family over real family, with all our favourite bikers paying visits in this book and hints for future books to come! I love it!!!

Another amazing book in the series! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Caroline Forrester · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 ⭐️

[Jane aka Coughy019 (Safety info included) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Tropes: age gap, opposites attract, found family, hurt/comfort, miscommunication
Feels: 1/5
Steam*: 2/5
Kinks: spanking, rough sex, toys, cum eating, lingerie, no lube, plans to try DP toy and fisting, sex in semi-public places
Angst: medium
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: psychiatrist plants false memories of CSA via hypnosis, on page depiction of CSA even though it was a false memory, violence, stalking, off-page rape of a minor character, drug use, child abuse and neglect, premeditated self-harm, hostage situations, murder, gore, homophobia by minor characters, unsafe sex, minor characters in incestuous relationship (glorifying/legitimizing incest... Ew)
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: Bloom has never been with anyone else. There are some references to Logan's past hookups and love interests. At one point Logan makes a date with another man intending to f*** him to get over Bloom, but he changes his mind and doesn't go through with it.

1.75 stars

This book did not work for me. I was excited for it, but I was putting off reading it because it is a duology and I didn't really have time to read them both as close together as I wanted to. Once I finally had the time... well I've read both of the books now, and I'm really disappointed.

I like the idea of Bloom as an unhinged character who was obsessed, but I think it wasn't executed properly. And I think that in the context of everything else that was happening in this duology, that there were some s***** decisions made that just made the romantic relationship between Bloom and Logan bad/unhealthy, and made me really think that these two do not belong together and shouldn't end up together. Which is not the vibe you want to inspire in your readers when you're writing. I actually wanted to dnf this book for a good portion of it because I was giving up on the romance between these characters being redeemable. But I stuck through it, and yeah the romance wasn't really redeemable.

Things I didn't like:

- A side couple in this book is a pair of twins in an incestuous relationship. Now, I'm a far left person, very accepting, and I will support all the colors of the lgbtqia+ rainbow and defend them. But I draw the line at an author trying to legitimize incest the way that this book did. Nope!

- I hated how Bloom blindly worshiped Logan. I didn't feel like Logan ever did anything to really earn that love, he just f***** him well and at times didn't treat him like he was abnormal, that's a low bar for romance. This book was poorly planned, the combination of things in it are not romantic or healthy. You have a huge age gap, Logan is twice Bloom's age. You have Bloom being completely inexperienced, a virgin, plus he is emotionally and mentally struggling. And Bloom has unequal feelings for Logan and doesn't really kno him. It just reeks of immaturity, and makes this couple not seem like they can last, their connection is built on fragile grounds. It just makes me uncomfortable on all levels.

- I clocked that Dr. Simms was a villain immediately, in the first book, and it was painful watching Bloom continue seeing him. I'm really sensitive to unethical behaviour from therapists, and this was hard to watch.

- for a chunk of this book, Logan came off as disingenuous. He was not intending to stay around, he thinks he's going to be killed, yet he was making Bloom be reliant on him. He's not willing to open up to Bloom and get help yet he expects Bloom to lean on him. It took a book and a half for Logan to start somewhat opening up to Bloom, and that was only because it was forced on him because Bloom spied and found out about him being in witness protection. Even after that during the rest of the book, Logan continued to fail to divulge s*** to Bloom. They had a really toxic and unhealthy communication dynamic the entire book. I hate when characters can't communicate well with the one person that's supposed to be the closest to them. I hated how Logan wouldn't be honest with Bloom. Logan expects honesty from Bloom, and he's just taking and taking the openness that Bloom gives him and he doesn't reciprocate. It's an ugly relationship dynamic when one partner won't trust the other one with them self.

- There are so many instances in this book where Logan shows that he doesn't accept Bloom for who he is, he's appalled by the violence and murderous side to Bloom, and he wants to change him... Right up until him just randomly telling us (rather than showing us via his actions and thoughts) that he needs to accept Bloom and love him for who he is. Yes author, we get it, he's supposed to love Bloom for who he is, but he doesn't! I'm not buying it!

- Logan is a horrible romantic partner. He keeps making huge life-changing decisions on behalf of bloom, without consulting him. I hate that Logan thinks he can just decide things so important for Bloom. He's not putting Bloom first and he's denying him a voice in their relationship. They should be making decisions together. And Logan came across as selfish, because he was making Bloom give up his family, and everything he knew to run away with him. And at one point, he was saying that they would need to leave before he could find out definitively whether or not the memories Bloom had of CSA were false implanted memories or true memories, and he was like oh well I guess we'll never know. And I was so angry, because Bloom is dealing with so much psychological and emotional trauma that him knowing the truth is so important to his healthy state of being. And for a partner to say, your health isn't important enough to me is a kick in the face in a romance novel.


Some notable moments:

It's not a good sign when there's only one passage that I liked out of such a long book. "“You’re such a simp.” “Ah yes, I suppose I am, but you love me.” “Fuck, yeah, I do.” “Bloom—” I tumbled him to the bed, and his arms came around me. “Hmm?” “Remind me to write our wedding vows.” “Ah fuck off, Logan. I’m gonna write it the way I can, and you’re gonna love it anyway.”"


*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.

**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.

[TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I’m not ashamed of being fucked by you. I used to think I would be, but I’m not. When we’re together like this, I love the way it makes me feel like you own me.” “I do own you.”

Warnings: Violence, Death, Drug Use/Addiction, Sexual Assault, Kidnapping, Physical Mental Emotional Abuse, Child Abuse & SA, Abuse by Famiy, Homophobia, Mind Manipulation


The Basics

Overall:
1st Person, Dual POV
3rd Act Break Up: No
Slow-burn: No
HEA: Yes
MC Sex w/o Other MC(s): No
Spice: 3.5/5
Angst/Stress: 3/5
Fluff: 1.5/5
Structure/Format/Flow: 5/5
Overall: 5/5

He gave a nervous laugh. “It doesn’t matter, since I can’t travel without proper identification anyway.” “That won’t be a problem forever.” “What do you mean?” “I’m gonna marry you, Bloom.”

Intimate/Spicy Moments Include:
Strict roles, blowjobs, rimming, anal sex, no condom, fingering, spanking, biting, no lube, sex toys

Crowe had given in and accepted me tonight, but would he be so understanding when he found out I was marrying Bloom to take him away with me? That they would never hear from him again once we left Smoky Vale under the guise of a honeymoon? - Logan

Main Character Information:
Bloom: 19, Enforcer for the Blood Hounds - Riverton Chapter, Traumatic past before saved by Crowe, loves his knives, blonde hair & green eyes, bottom
Dr. Collier: At least 38, Logan, Trauma Surgeon, Jamie’s mentor, brown hair & grey eyes, top

My sweet, stabby little cocksucker. - Logan

Notable Tropes/Tags/Themes/etc.:
Motorcycle Club
Found Family
Crime
Mental Illness
Trauma
Age Gap
Obsession/Possessive
Crime Family/Mafia

“Not sure obsession is the healthiest way to describe a relationship.” “Being healthy or being happy? Which one would you rather be?”

My Opinions on:
SO HAPPY. It’s a good thing Bloom & Logan were two books because they NEEEDEDDDDD it. The DRAMA. The TEARS. The EVERYTHING. I loved so much about this, and so many characters all came into this one. Logan was able to be more care free even with the threats, he just seemed so much less stiff. Sarge & Chris in the room? Yes, please. And there book is next! Our per book Whip and Noose scene? Yes, boo, give him the look, he ain’t gonna say SH*T. Saint turning into a Golden Retriever when he sees Jasper? Better be him in Saint’s book! The Rev coming to Thanksgiving? Yeah, Winter and him are about to be hubby-ed up with each other. So much getting wrapped up but so much gett put out. UGH. I NEED THE NEXT BOOK.

Favorite Part: When Logan shows Bloom how to put stitches in on his wound. It’s like the shaving scene from the first Bloom part all over again. He takes his time and it’s so sweet.

Favorite Side Character(s): Crowe gets this spot for Part 2. Everything he goes through with Max and Bloom and Winter and ugh. 92% when he was crying to Bloom when Max was still incapacitated from being shot and how he wasn’t going to repeat what the doctors said about his condition because it just wasn’t true. In Crowe’s book he was so confused at how open they were with their emotions and now here he is doing the sameeeee. Ugh and Bloom told him he loved him. Crowe tells him often but in Crowe’s book he talked about how Bloom never says it backkkkk and he said it FIRST this time. My heart was sore for this man.

Hardest/Most Difficult Part: Literally everything involving Dr. Simms. Absolute predatory nut job! But when Bloom woke up nude after being kidnapped by Simms and Max shot I was so done.

Thoughts On World Building: We are still cruising and it’s amazing. I haven’t personally noticed any inconsistencies and the stories aren’t just repeats with different characters. Also, I LOVE how just because we do a character's story it doesn’t mean that they aren’t heavily involved still. We still get glimpses into their lives and what’s going on. Just praying that Gianni doesn’t realize how much power she has and kills off a side character important to the previous stories. I would absolutely CRUMBLE. I can’t do that, I am way too weak.

“You are. Do you know what loving someone is, Bloom? It’s making sacrifices when it matters to protect the one you care about. I’d die for you a thousand times and never regret it.” - Logan

Milestone Moments:
Welcome Back!: 19%
Ring Shopping: 23%
F*CK That Car: 33%
EnGaGeD?!?: 38%
Sarge mhmm: 59%
Bloom Gets Napped: 78%
Bloom Gets Napped from the Napper: 85%
Crowe Crying *sob*: 92%
The Golden Coin: 97%
Intimate Scenes: 6%, 16%, 28%, 43%, 51%, 57%, 77%, 97%

“A beautiful monster,” Uncle Mickey whispered.

Side Characters:
Bay: Partner to GeraldBailey, shaved & tattooed head, 6’5”, 260#, muscular, goatee, Member of the Blood Hounds - Riverton Chapter, Bay (The Smoky Vale Alliance #1)
Ben: Partner to Gunner, Jamie’s “Uncle”, previously police officer/acting chief, Mason’s Ex, blue eyes, bottom, Gunner (The Smoky Vale Alliance #2)
Booker: “Papa”, Partner to Fable & Zak, Vice President of the Reapers, top, Fable’s Foes (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #2)
Cass: Married to Mort, red hair & brown eyes, previously stripper at Vice & Virtue, bottom, The Mortician (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #3)
Chris: Trans FTM, Max’s little brother, Kidnapped and was going to be trafficked, crush/hero worship over Sarge, Prospect for the Blood Hounds - Smoky Vale Chapter, Not Yet Released: Sarge (The Smoky Vale Alliance #5)
Crowe: Partner/Daddy to Max, “Leslie”, blonde hair & green/grey eyes, Chairman of the Board of Biker Alliance, President of the Blood Hounds - Riverton Chapter, demisexual, Crowe’s Creed (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #5)
Dove: Bartender for the Reapers, known for always being topless (apparently has a nice rack), They/Them pronouns, Nonbinary, No Book Mentioned
Fable: Partner to Zak & Booker, Gerald’s Step-Son, Little, Condition: XXY, dark brown hair & brown eyes, bottom, feminine, soft,Fable’s Foes (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #2)
Gerald: Partner to Bay, Ger, baysexual, 5’9”, 154#, dark brown hair, ex-mayor, Fable’s step-dad, Bay (The Smoky Vale Alliance #1)
Grimm: Partner to Jamie, “Daddy Grimm”, Graeme, President of the Grimm Reapers MC, 6’2”, dark brown hair, Verse (prefers bottom), Biker Daddy (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #1)
Gunner: Partner to Ben, President of the Blood Hounds - Smoky Vale Chapter, Mason’s Ex, wavy black hair & dark eyes, top, Gunner (The Smoky Vale Alliance #2)
Jamie: Partner to Grimm, “HalfWay”, Doctor/Intern at Smoky Vale General Hospital, Son of the deceased Chief of Police (Mason), 5’6”, brown hair & eyes, feminine style, Verse (prefers top), Biker Daddy, (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #1)
Jasper: Widow & Ben’s brother-in-law, Maybe a thing with Saint???, No Book Mentioned
Joel: Grimm’s Son, Jamie’s Best Friend, in Law School, No Book Mentioned
Max: Partner to Crowe, former dancer/owner at Vice & Virtue, black hair, fierce, bossy bottom, Crowe’s Creed (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #5)
Miles: Partner to Rubble, Mort’s previous assistant at the crematory, slender, black hair & brown eyes, service sub, Miles High (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #4)
Mort: Married to Cass, Hollis, The Mortician, Cremator, Enforcer for the Reapers, top, head tattoos, top, The Mortician (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #3)
Noose:Member of the Reapers, def banging his twin, Whip, Found by Grimm before committing suicide with Whip, Some Parts of Story on Patreon
Reverend: Rev. Clarke Homer, has a tramp stamp?, widow (husband deceased), Winter & Rev??, No Book Mentioned
Rubble: Partner & Daddy to Miles, Runs R.I.P. tattoo shop, Member of the Reapers, long blond hair, large, Miles High (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #4)
Saint: Member of the Blood Hounds - Riverton Chapter, Will shadow Gunner, a thing for Jasper?? Not Yet Released: Saint (The Smoky Vale Alliance #7)
Sarge: Nomad biker with the Blood Hounds, Rough passed discussed minorly involving family, saved Chris from traffickers, got something going with Chris, Not Yet Released: Sarge (The Smoky Vale Alliance #5)
Whip: Member of the Reapers, def banging his twin, Noose, Found by Grimm before committing suicide with Noose, Some Parts of Story on Patreon
Winter: Member of the Blood Hounds - Riverton Chapter, Road Captain, long time friend/brother of Crowe, blonde, has a drug problem/in rehab, Winter & Rev??, Not Yet Released: Winter (The Smoky Vale Alliance #6)
Zak: “Daddy”, Partner to Booker & Fable, previous military experience, gun expert, ex-snitch, verse, Fable’s Foes (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #2)

My Bloom. - Logan

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC...

[haletostilinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read in another awesome buddy read with the always lovely Lilly ❤️

Oh, what a wild ride this second part takes us on!

We waited awhile for Bloom's story and it did not disappoint. He and Logan are magic together, I absolutely loved this.

Bloom picks up pretty much where the first part left off. Bloom is recovering in the hospital, and he is getting attention for being the hero of the day at the end of the last book. Logan has certainly caught attention as well, but that isn't a good thing for him.

Because in this one, his past comes to catch up with him and there's no outrunning it this time.

There are two main threats in this book. One is Logan's past, but also Bloom's psychiatrist, Dr. Simms. There's just something majorly off about him, and eventually we find out exactly what is wrong with him and why.

Bloom and Logan, however, fall more and more in love as they go through trials and tribulations in this one. Logan is determined for awhile to keep his past a secret to keep Bloom safe, and Logan also has to come to terms with the darker side of Bloom, the side that get violent and gory to protect those he loves.

They also get engaged, and their wedding is coming up as everything comes to a head.

I loved that his included their wedding and them getting married in full. I don't know why, but a lot of books these days love to skip the wedding of a main couple entirely (just says 'they got married' essentially) or be very vague about it ('they said their vows and it was beautiful' and all that) like *show* me the wedding, have it play out! Like who wouldn't want to see the wedding of the main couple they've come to love? Like I don't get the trend of leaving it out. So yeah, points for showing Bloom and Logan's wedding, it was beautiful.

I also wasn't sure how they'd get their HEA, it just seemed like Logan's past would never stop coming for him, people would continue to come after them. But after the climax, Logan's father reaches out trying for forgiveness.

It might feel like what happens with his father comes too quickly or it's too convenient, but this the second part of an already long story, so I get the author doing that for conveniences sake to wrap up the story neatly and so these two can have their HEA and still be with the bikers, who have become their family. It wouldn't have felt complete if they'd have had to go on the run.

Plus, what happens with Logan's father isn't completely out of the ordinary, as it's been 10 years and that's a long time, time for his father to change.

I was so happy with how this story wrapped up, although not without it's angst. What Bloom has to go through with that psychiatrist was awful. Dr. Simms deserved everything he got and I'm glad he suffered in the end, though. He also hurts Max, Crowe's boy and that was so sad and scary. Thankfully he turned out okay and lived and Dr. Simms got what was coming to him.

Bloom and Logan were perfect for each other, and Logan treats Bloom so wonderfully. Seeing them get their hard fought for HEA was great.

Can't wait for Sarge's story next. The nomad is a pretty big mystery overall, although we found out in this that his family was murdered, he's after their killer or killers and is celibate until they're caught. Will be interesting to find out why that is. Chris, his LI, is also trans, so will be interesting to read only my third story with a trans MC.

Until then! 😍😘

My Ratings for The Smoky Vale Alliance Series:

💥 Bay: 4 stars (my review)
💥 Gunner: 4.75 stars (my review)
💥 Bloom: Part One: 5 stars (my review)
💥 Bloom: Part Two: 5 stars
💥 Sarge: TBR
💥 Winter: TBR

[BLFantasy4 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spice: 4/5 🌶️

MM Dark Romance
Mafia Runaway Doctor x Biker
PTSD
Age Gap (21 years)
Childhood Trauma
Parental Abuse
Blood/Violence/Gore/Death
Mystery
Kidnapping
Spanking
Strict Top/Bottom
Size Difference

Logan is a runaway mafia son who never wanted any part of the cruel world that comes with taking lives and torturing people. When he meets and falls in love with Bloom, he does everything he can to make sure Bloom doesn’t get caught in the crossfire between his family and him.

Bloom is a biker with an obsession for his mysterious doctor lover. He would do just about anything to make sure Logan is safe where no one can hurt him, even if it means him getting hurt himself…

Thoughts: OMG!!! I gobbled this book up like crazy! The plot twists, the suspense, the mystery and thriller aspects, the characters and their development. I LOVED EVERYTHING! I really went through the 5 stages of grief reading this, pretty sure I experienced every emotion known to humanity kind with a stage 5 whiplash.

This book had me in a chokehold! I was just so wrapped up in the story and when things got tense I felt it so deep I needed to take breaks just to catch my breath.

I HIGHLY recommend this story to anyone who loves a dark and twisted romance! Just make sure to check TW’s since this story does contain many scenes that may be triggering for some people!!

[Ek1- · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was so excited for blooms books, and was pretty underwhelmed, sadly. The first one was okay, and part two had its good moments but a few things bothered me. It felt looongg. Only in the last 30% or so did it pick up. I also felt like Logan really changed bloom. It could have been for the better in some ways but the changes didn’t really feel fleshed out. It was more like logan wanted him a certain way and to not be all murdery and bloom was all ‘I’ll do anything for you to love me’. I would have liked to see more of bloom being the crazy enforcer and his big personality, and then soften gradually in some areas because HE wanted to.

[Manic killer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a nice wrap up to Bloom and Logan’s story. I liked how caring and protective Logan was of Bloom. Bloom was crazy as he should, and I loved seeing more of layers of him revealed in this. He might murder crazed and all, but underneath all that bravado was a boy who was touched starved, who craved love like no other and I’m glad Logan was able to not only love Bloom the way he deserved but was also very affectionate, attentive and protective of Bloom.

Nice wrap up.

[❀ Jess ( Semi hiatus ) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Self note: Check for safety info before reading.

[misz lei · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5
love it!

[Sandy Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bikers, blood, mayhem, true love...it’s all here! I thoroughly enjoyed the second half of the story of feral biker enforcer Bloom and his doctor with dangerous secrets, Logan Collier. Age gap with a healthy helping of obsession and possessiveness? Yes please!

This book continues Bloom’s story, so read book 1 first. You can read Bloom’s duet separate from the first two Smoky Vale Alliance stories, but I’ve them all and enjoyed them a lot, so if you’re in the mood for motorcycle club books, you might just eat them up. The first two books add context and layers to characters and dynamics here, but you won’t be confused if you haven’t read them. (Note, this is also a spinoff of the author’s other motorcycle club series, Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale, and those characters are secondary characters here as well—I have not read any of those and was never confused reading these.)

Bloom’s recovering from the events of book 1. Logan’s facing down his dangerous past, which he’s kept secret from everyone. It’s a recipe for disaster, but their extreme obsession for each other means no one and nothing will get in their way. I love this level of touch-him-and-die, combined with Bloom’s young age and insecurity (OMG, Logan’s reaction to realizing how old Bloom is...and is not! Ha ha ha...) combined with all he’s survived make him and intriguing mixture of violent feral enforcer and innocent insecure lover. He’s adorable. And he bites. Hard.

Logan’s mafia-family past has come to call, and it’s quite a ride to see how he tries to keep the danger away from Bloom and fails utterly, because...you can’t keep anything from Bloom. In book 1, Bloom walked all over Logan’s attempts at boundaries, and he’s not giving in to any non-communication nonsense here. Just try to interfere with him and his man. I dare you.

It’s a book where two telenovela-level dramatic unrelated threats are in play, and that always gets a side-eye from me, but, both were woven in early on, so it doesn’t feel too contrived. I just took it for what it was and focused on the intense connection between the heroes; that’s what kept me riveted.

The secondary characters in the Smoky Vale biker alliance add their dashes of entertainment and support, always fun to read.

HEA, feral-level obsession-possession/touch him and die (and people do!), motorcycle club, WITSEC/mafia situation, romantic suspense. Absolutely no cheating or others, no OM action in any way (apart from a misunderstanding due to location circumstances, soon cleared up). TWs for extreme violence and mental manipulation (not between MCs). I enjoyed this story quite a lot. Highly recommended duet and series.

My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.

[Jessica&#x1f608; · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 out of 5)

Let me say this straight off: this book was a hair away from being a perfect five stars. A thin hair. And the wild part? I don’t even have real complaints. It’s one of those reads where you finish and just sit there like, yeah… that was good.

Logan and Bloom are genuinely one of the most toxic-but-it-works couples I’ve read in a while — and I mean that as praise. They’re obsessive, protective, loving, and deeply loyal to each other. What I appreciated most is that the devotion wasn’t one-sided. Yes, Bloom is absolutely unhinged. He’s obsessive, intense, and would burn the world down for Logan without blinking — but Logan rides just as hard for Bloom. They see each other fully. Flaws, mess, danger, devotion — all of it. And they choose each other anyway.

That balance matters. A lot.

Most of my questions from part one were answered, and unfortunately… I was right about the psychiatrist. Certified weirdo. I didn’t know how or why in part one, but part two clears that up cleanly, and I appreciated that the payoff actually landed instead of being brushed aside.

Logan’s secret identity? Answered. Handled. Satisfying.

And I have to say — I’m really glad the story didn’t go in the direction of Logan leaving the country and pulling Bloom away from his biker family. That would’ve rubbed me the wrong way. Bloom would’ve gone along with it, no question — but he would’ve lost a huge part of himself in the process. That kind of sacrifice would’ve felt selfish on Logan’s end, even if the intention was love. So I was relieved the book respected Bloom’s roots and gave them a happy ending without isolating him.

Now let’s talk about the spice.

The spice was not lacking. At all.
Spice level? 10 out of 10.

But — and this matters — it never swallowed the plot. The story stayed intact. The relationship still had weight. The intimacy enhanced the book instead of overpowering it, which is exactly how it should be done.

By the end, I was fully invested. Satisfied. Smiling. And honestly? I’d reread this. Easily.

I’m also crossing my fingers hard for a Saint and Jasper book. If one exists or ever comes out, I’m diving in immediately — no hesitation, no slump, no resistance.

This was a strong four stars, barely missing that fifth. Something intangible kept it just shy of perfection — not enough to complain about, just enough to be honest.

Most importantly?
This book pulled me out of my reading slump.

So yeah — shoutout to Logan and Bloom for getting me back in my reading bag.

[Ida · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
Genre: Dark Romance
Series: Y
MMC 1: Bloom
MMC 2: Dr. Logan Collier
POV: First Person, Dual POV
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
HEA: Yes
Tropes: Tortured Hero, MC Biker Romance, Age Gap, Insta-love, Secret Identity, Protector MMC, Caretaking, Romantic Suspense, Protective Hero, Contemporary Romance, Small Town Romance, OTT Obsessed Hero

Bloom: Part Two is the fourth book in The Smoky Vale Alliance series, and the 2nd part of the Bloom Duet. At a minimum you need to have read Bloom: Part One before reading this one. If you are someone who wants to read series in order, then I suggest going back further and reading Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale Series before starting the The Smoky Vale Alliance series, as the characters from that series feature pretty heavily in this series. That being said I read The Smoky Vale Alliance series first, and went back to read the Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale Series later after having met the characters in the later books. Also, read the Content Warning before reading this book.

Now that we have the admin out of the way, let's talk about Bloom: Part Two. Having binged the first 3 books in the series before this, I was keen to see Bloom get his happy ending, which he does. There are many twists and turns, some predicted, some not. It was a fairly enjoyable read. I liked seeing Bloom grow and make friends outside of the original brothers, and see him grow in confidence. I also liked seeing others, like Crowe, realise that Bloom isn't the same kid they rescued years ago.

One thing I didn't like was Logan's expectation that Bloom be truthful with him:
"Bloom, talk to me."
I shook my head, pinching the fabric of my pants. "It's nothing."
"Hey, you and I don't have that kind of relationship." Logan leaned down so he was on eye level with me, his expression softening. "You've never hidden anything from me..." page 59, Chapter 6 (Blooms POV)
But at the same time Logan is hiding SO MUCH from Bloom. Not only that, when the truth about his identity does come out, he still continues to hide things, and not once does he apologise for the long term deception, or the other lies. He explains what made him turn on his family, but he doesn't own up to the damage caused in the relationship by his lying. No wonder Bloom continues to question himself and the relationship.

Am I happy they got together in the end? Yes. Do I think Logan should have gotten on his knees and grovelled from forgiveness? YES.

[Annette✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars ✩

Thank you Gay Romance Reviews for providing me with this ARC! Gianni Holmes is one of my favorite writers and her Smoky Vale series is the absolute best.

”Logan, all my life, i knew i wasn’t normal, and i never expected to enjoy the things normal people do. Then i met you, and i discovered love, though some people call it obsession, and maybe it is, but one thing i know for sure is that you showed me that i didn’t have to be anything other than myself to be loved.”

Bloom part 2 continues where part 1 left off. After the hospital hostage situation, Bloom saved the day but got shot by accident. We learned that Logan is keeping a big secret about his past and that he’s in witness protection. His love for Bloom is true and strong, and he will do anything to protect him, even if that means if they both have to leave Smoky Vale and everyone they love behind.

Bloom is one of my favorite characters since being introduced. He makes me laugh, he makes me cry and laugh some more. I love his growth in this duology. Because of his tragic childhood, he is not the easiest person and has many mental issues. Even tho he thinks his heart is black.. it’s made of gold. He will do anything for his family and the people he loves. He has come so far in his journey, and he deserves the world.

”I wasn’t miserable anymore. I had friends. I had people who cared about me. And i was getting married to the man i loved in less than twenty-four hours. I had a whole lot more than i did when i just moved to Smoky Vale.”

Old beloved characters obviously return in this book. The bachelor party was absolutely adorable. And the last thing i want to say is, I am so proud of Bloom and his growth.

Tropes
⤷ Feral biker x Doctor
⤷ Age gap
⤷ Touch him and d!e
⤷ Found family
⤷ Mental Health

[Hope Reads27 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting for this book and it did not disappoint. I loved that Logan fought just as hard as Bloom for their relationship. They didn’t care what others thought and did what they felt was right for themselves. I hated that Bloom was on a path of progress and he was taken advantage of by that jackass doctor. He was always sketchy to me and I wished we got to read about his destruction on page. Then when I think the action is done, bam more action. With Logan’s family I kind of understand where his Uncle was coming from about hating his brother for now accepting Logan being with a man but not the uncle being with a man. What I don’t get is why the Uncle felt like he had to go after Logan when Logan didn’t want anything to do with the family. The uncle could have taken over and done whatever he wanted. He could have easily went after the head of the family, his brother who is a big hypocrite and gotten his revenge. Also Joel, Grimm’s son, where the hell did he go? He shows up basically threatening Logan into visiting Logan’s dad in jail or shit would happen to Bloom and then just disappears from the rest of the book. He’s mentioned but nothing really comes from his involvement in the whole thing. And I’m pretty sure Joel judged Jamie hard for being involved with criminals and he’s doing the same thing with worse people 🙄. Anyways besides all the side people who were threatening Logan and Bloom I still really enjoyed reading this book. The proposal scene made me laugh a little bit because Logan totally is a simp for Bloom. Like Logan just mentioned to Bloom that he wanted to marry him eventually and Bloom’s like “yes i accept your proposal” 😂 and Logan just went with it. Logan will do whatever for Bloom and it makes me happy because Bloom deserves it. The obsession goes both ways with these two. Can’t wait for the next book!!!!

[Emily Hernandez · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second half of Bloom and Logan's story was somehow even more chaotic and unexpected than the first. From the reveal of Logan's true identity onward, this book constantly challenged my assumptions and kept me glued to the pages waiting to see what crazy thing was in store next. The best word I can think of to describe Logan and Bloom's relationship throughout this journey is tumultuous. I never doubted their obsessive love for one another, but the ups and downs of their relationship felt extreme for an established couple. I remember thinking to myself more than once that I wasn't sure if these two made each other better, but the depth of their devotion and loyalty couldn't be matched by anything else. I found it fascinating to follow along and try to understand a different form of love than I'm used to seeing in romance novels, and what a ride it turned out to be. This story had heaps of drama, suspense, and surprises in store, and I genuinely do not even know where to begin in trying to piece together my thoughts on the plot points when so many of them are massive spoilers for what happens in this book. What I can say is that these characters have firmly cemented themselves a place in my heart, and it was so easy for me to get invested in the storyline no matter where it took me. I can feel a massive book hangover coming on as I try to digest all the emotions this book made me feel, and it was as much a relief as anything else to see Logan and Bloom fight their way to a happy ending in the last few chapters.

**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Lexi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an okay read. I did enjoy Bloom & Logan as a couple, but at times it did feel as if the book was dragging. I am glad we were able to see them get to a point where they were in a good place and not constantly worried about all the outside factors threatening to tear them apart. Both Bloom & Logan deserved their happy ending. Bloom had been through so much trauma that no child should ever have to endure. Logan also went through traumatic experiences within his family that he shouldn’t have had to deal with either. If you’ve read part 1 then I do think reading part 2 is worth it to get Logan’s backstory and see Bloom & Logan flourish into a wonderful couple.

While I loved Logan & Bloom, I really can’t say that I enjoyed many of the other side characters which is part of the reason this was a 3 star read for me. I enjoy the characters from the previous books of this series & the characters of the books to come within this series, but I’m just not a big fan of the characters from The Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale. Crowe honestly rubbed me the wrong way in how he handled Bloom and Logan being together. I get it, Crowe basically raised Bloom and I understand having reservations but Logan knew Bloom needed to be handled with care. Logan knew Bloom was not the typical man based on the interactions they had before they even became a couple. I just felt like Crowe felt entitled when it came to Bloom’s relationship & I couldn’t agree with it. Logan accepted Bloom and that should have been enough for Crowe to be okay with them pursuing a relationship.

[Savy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book is finally here! It has been a while since 'Bloom: part one' was available, so it took some time to get back into the story.

Like I predicted after the first part, in this book, secrets come to light and we get to know more about Logan. The first half of the book felt a bit slow, with the focus on Bloom and Logan's relationship and Logan trying to keep a lid on his secrets. To me it also felt like a classic example of people not being able to communicate, to try and protect each other by not telling their partner what's going on. Of course, Bloom doesn't like being kept out of the loop and is trying to figure out what's going on by himself. It took some time for me to get into the story.

While the first half felt really slow, the story packed up a lot of speed, action and tension near the end, making me want to keep on reading and hoping everything would be all right. Luckily, there is a HEA/HFN for both main characters. As this is the 4th book in The Smoky Vale Alliance Series, I'm hoping and expecting we see some more of these characters in later books.
Overall, a great read if you like biker stories with a darker edge, snarly and emotional vulnerable characters and stern protectors.

We also see a lot of familiar faces for the first couple of books in this series, as well as the Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale series by the same author.

Dark themes, please check the content warning if you want to stay away from certain subjects.

1st POV, Bloom & Logan

[Kat · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wish I could say I liked part 2 as much as I liked part 1. This went wildly off the rails, in a not-so-good way.

All I’m going to say is:
How did any of these men survive this long with such a complete lack of self-preservation or common sense?? Logan in particular.

The therapist thing really upsets me. Bloom doesn’t trust or like his psychologist, that’s a pretty clear indicator that he’s not a good fit.
Logan POINTS OUT that Dr. Simm’s motivations seem more in line with studying Bloom than HELPING him (and Dr. more than once shares/tries to share details of Bloom’s diagnosis/treatment).
It makes absolutely no sense that anyone would encourage Bloom to continue treatment with that man, or that Bloom would want to.
He at one point returned to virtual/phone sessions with—was it Saint or Sarge’s mom? If Bloom was determined he didn’t want to find someone new and start again from scratch, she would have made A LOT more sense than the repeated bad interactions with Dr. Simm.

A cult? Why. Why though. Absolutely left field and of course he has secret cult info just lying about.

I’m sorry..I’ve liked a lot of these books but this one was just.. too unbelievable.

Last thing: I like Bloom and Logan together, I thought they made a cute couple…but the alter had me seriously thinking they’re right that Bloom should not be starting that relationship.. I want to cheer for the couple, not worry. I conveniently ignored the alter bit and it was better. 🫣

[Scatteredashes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Bloom's story and boy does he ever deserve his happy ending. This series is best read in order and this definitely has to be read after Part 1. We definitely get to see Bloom evolve and grow as a character. There's plenty of spice between him and Logan. I love the bikers and how they're a family and take care of each other. It was awesome seeing all the guys rally around Bloom (and Logan when need be). They may be rough around the edges but these guys are truly special. The reason this isn't 5 stars is because I truly didn't like Logan for a while. It felt to me that he placed Bloom on a pedestal and wanted Bloom to be someone he wasn't for a while. There were times when I thought Bloom totally deserved someone else. There were a few moments in the middle that sort of dragged for me when Logan kept trying to keep Bloom on bed rest. He did redeem himself in the end, though I've still got a wary eye on him. It felt like he did fully accept all of Bloom's tendencies in the end and I was very happy with the ending. I do feel bad for poor Max! He definitely didn't deserve what happened to him.

There's definitely a lot going on in this one and it's a wild ride. These bikers are truly special and I loved the found family aspect that threads it all together. I can't wait to get Sarge and Winter's stories!