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Sons of Templar MC #5
Dauntless
This isn’t a fairy tale. I’ll save you the trouble by telling you that now.
This is the tale of a girl who spent her life bouncing around foster homes, who had her innocence stolen in the darkness before she knew it was something that could be lost. Her demons followed her everywhere, after that night. They chased her to the medical school she dropped out of, to the strip club she sold herself in, and finally caught her in a river of sin where they tried to drown her.
My name is Bex and this is my story.
I’m paddling, barely keeping my head above water. And even though I’m submerged, I’ll never be clean. The layer of dirt that has clung to me since birth is a tattoo I’ll wear for life.
He can’t see it, though.
Even when I’m torn and tattered, and left in pieces, he wades into the filth to try to put those pieces back together.
He doesn’t seem to understand there’s nothing left to repair. To love. Just sullied fragments of a damned soul.
He’s willing to damn himself in order to exact revenge on those who sent me to the pit.
Problem is, my name is at the top of that list, since I not only damned my own soul, but his too.
* Contains dark subject matter and potential triggers
** Can be read as a standalone
This is the tale of a girl who spent her life bouncing around foster homes, who had her innocence stolen in the darkness before she knew it was something that could be lost. Her demons followed her everywhere, after that night. They chased her to the medical school she dropped out of, to the strip club she sold herself in, and finally caught her in a river of sin where they tried to drown her.
My name is Bex and this is my story.
I’m paddling, barely keeping my head above water. And even though I’m submerged, I’ll never be clean. The layer of dirt that has clung to me since birth is a tattoo I’ll wear for life.
He can’t see it, though.
Even when I’m torn and tattered, and left in pieces, he wades into the filth to try to put those pieces back together.
He doesn’t seem to understand there’s nothing left to repair. To love. Just sullied fragments of a damned soul.
He’s willing to damn himself in order to exact revenge on those who sent me to the pit.
Problem is, my name is at the top of that list, since I not only damned my own soul, but his too.
* Contains dark subject matter and potential triggers
** Can be read as a standalone
432 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2016
560 people are currently reading
1354 people want to read
About the author
Anne Malcom
55 books3,929 followersAnne Malcom has been an avid reader since before she can remember, her mother responsible for her book addiction. It started with magical journeys into the world of Hogwarts and Middle Earth, then as she grew up her reading tastes grew with her. Her obsession with books and romance novels in particular gave Anne the opportunity to find another passion, writing. Finding writing about alpha males and happily ever afters more fun than reading about them, Anne is not about to stop any time soon.
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October 12, 2016
It's finally time for Lucky's story! I'm warning you now, things get a little dark and twisted before he gets his HEA.
This is one joker who hides some serious demons behind his easy smile.
October 27th and you'll meet them up close.
Anne
xxxx
May 7, 2024
*re-read
This book isn't your typical romance, it filled with heartbreak and such sadness it breaks your heart but with the heartbreak and the sadness it's filled with a beautiful tale, strength and a love that will make you believe in that one great love.
Bex didn't have a great life she didn't grow up in a loving family and go to dances in high school. Bex grew up on foster care and was treated horribly. Then she met Lilly and her mom and she finally found a family that loved her. So when Lilly's mom died the grief and the past became too much an Bex turned to drugs hoping to finally feel nothing. Lilly found happiness that she deserves with Asher, Lucky his best friend seems to never be far behind saying she will be his, and doing everything to make that so. When Bex woke up in a hospital after an accidental almost overdose seeing her best friend heartbroken again Bex sets out to make her life right.
Picking yourself up from a Heroin addiction is one of the hardest things Becky(Bex) has ever done. But she does it with will power and the help from her new and old friends. Along the way Lucky never gives up and does everything he can to make Becky his and along the way it seems to be working. Lucky is like no man before, he's handsome and funny and strong and rough but he's also a biker and has that edge. Everything seems to be working out for the good till it isn't.
When the unthinkable happens Becky is once again thrown back into the life she has fought so hard to get out of but this time she comes out more wounded than ever before, and it won't be a walk in the park to get free but it might be the hardest thing Becky has ever done. The one constant through it all Is Beckys new friends, and Lucky. The man who has claimed Bex's heart and who won't let go no matter what but who will stand beside her and fight the demons and anyone else who try's to hurt her.
I loved this book. Is it an easy book, no there are heartbreaking issues, This book is one some may have issues/ triggers with but the author does a phenomenal job dealing with taking care with these sensitive issues. Not only the characters she created but their story. I didnt want to put this book down. When you think they can't take anymore more is thrown at Becky and Lucky but the beauty in that is that we see their strength and even more that they conquer it and find love.
Lucky is a special hero he had me laughing but then you see what he survived and your heart breaks for him. And then you see how he reacts to Becky and what she goes through and your heart stops beating because it doesn't know what to do with itself. His wold is Becky and making her not just ok but better than ok. I am in awe of Lucky, there are no words to describe him. Becky is the strongest female character I have ever read about. I loved seeing that she never gave up but I also loved how she fought to be vulnerable with Lucky and to open up to those who loved her.
Not only did Bex and Lucky shine in this book
But Rosie was amazing, I always liked her and thought she was funny and wanted her story but after this book I'm salivating for it. Gage is another character we have scene small bits of but I fell in love with the big guy in this book and these two Rosie and Gage are the two books I'm am wanting most next. We get to see everyone from the previous book which I loved and all fell in love with them in their own books. After this book they will all hold places in my heart.
This book isn't for the faint of heart it deals with some hard subject but it's done so well and Anne Malcolm really does it justice and then some. I didn't want this book to end, it's one that you know you won't forget and one that easily stands out. As I've said before I am amazed at the growth we have scene in this author and you would think she can't get any better. Well I'm hear to tell you that's not true Anne Malcolm found her calling when she picked up the pen or typed on the keyboard (whichever you prefer). I can't wait for her next book what ever it may be because there's one thing I can count on and that's that it will be amazing.
There are triggers as I said above: drug use, addiction, and rape, but Anne Malcom handles it amazingly. No cheating(you will laugh even thinking Lucky would do anything like that) and a beautiful hea.
*Thank you Anne Malcom for this Beta/ARC book
This book isn't your typical romance, it filled with heartbreak and such sadness it breaks your heart but with the heartbreak and the sadness it's filled with a beautiful tale, strength and a love that will make you believe in that one great love.
Bex didn't have a great life she didn't grow up in a loving family and go to dances in high school. Bex grew up on foster care and was treated horribly. Then she met Lilly and her mom and she finally found a family that loved her. So when Lilly's mom died the grief and the past became too much an Bex turned to drugs hoping to finally feel nothing. Lilly found happiness that she deserves with Asher, Lucky his best friend seems to never be far behind saying she will be his, and doing everything to make that so. When Bex woke up in a hospital after an accidental almost overdose seeing her best friend heartbroken again Bex sets out to make her life right.
Picking yourself up from a Heroin addiction is one of the hardest things Becky(Bex) has ever done. But she does it with will power and the help from her new and old friends. Along the way Lucky never gives up and does everything he can to make Becky his and along the way it seems to be working. Lucky is like no man before, he's handsome and funny and strong and rough but he's also a biker and has that edge. Everything seems to be working out for the good till it isn't.
When the unthinkable happens Becky is once again thrown back into the life she has fought so hard to get out of but this time she comes out more wounded than ever before, and it won't be a walk in the park to get free but it might be the hardest thing Becky has ever done. The one constant through it all Is Beckys new friends, and Lucky. The man who has claimed Bex's heart and who won't let go no matter what but who will stand beside her and fight the demons and anyone else who try's to hurt her.
I loved this book. Is it an easy book, no there are heartbreaking issues, This book is one some may have issues/ triggers with but the author does a phenomenal job dealing with taking care with these sensitive issues. Not only the characters she created but their story. I didnt want to put this book down. When you think they can't take anymore more is thrown at Becky and Lucky but the beauty in that is that we see their strength and even more that they conquer it and find love.
Lucky is a special hero he had me laughing but then you see what he survived and your heart breaks for him. And then you see how he reacts to Becky and what she goes through and your heart stops beating because it doesn't know what to do with itself. His wold is Becky and making her not just ok but better than ok. I am in awe of Lucky, there are no words to describe him. Becky is the strongest female character I have ever read about. I loved seeing that she never gave up but I also loved how she fought to be vulnerable with Lucky and to open up to those who loved her.
Not only did Bex and Lucky shine in this book
But Rosie was amazing, I always liked her and thought she was funny and wanted her story but after this book I'm salivating for it. Gage is another character we have scene small bits of but I fell in love with the big guy in this book and these two Rosie and Gage are the two books I'm am wanting most next. We get to see everyone from the previous book which I loved and all fell in love with them in their own books. After this book they will all hold places in my heart.
This book isn't for the faint of heart it deals with some hard subject but it's done so well and Anne Malcolm really does it justice and then some. I didn't want this book to end, it's one that you know you won't forget and one that easily stands out. As I've said before I am amazed at the growth we have scene in this author and you would think she can't get any better. Well I'm hear to tell you that's not true Anne Malcolm found her calling when she picked up the pen or typed on the keyboard (whichever you prefer). I can't wait for her next book what ever it may be because there's one thing I can count on and that's that it will be amazing.
There are triggers as I said above: drug use, addiction, and rape, but Anne Malcom handles it amazingly. No cheating(you will laugh even thinking Lucky would do anything like that) and a beautiful hea.
*Thank you Anne Malcom for this Beta/ARC book
December 4, 2016
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Copy received from author in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont. Romance
Series : - 5th in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 5 stars
★Review★
I have to be honest, whilst I was so looking forward to Lucky's story, when I got this, I sort of put it off, knowing some of what happens to Bex (and the knowledge that what we didn't know, would be awful) from the previous book, I was not in the head space for this, knowing it would be heartbreaking.
Yes, I know I am a wimp!
However, I found myself laughing and smiling so much more than I thought I would (thank you god Lucky and Rosie!)
The first 50% or so we go over certain events from the previous book, but from Bex and Lucky's POV, so while there is a timeline overlap, and we know something awful is coming, it did not feel like a repeat. And I fell even more in love with Lucky than I thought, and indeed with Bex. I was unsure how much I would like an ex junkie stripper heroine, but she was so much more than I expected. I adored her too. So many parts of this book I bookmarked (usually something Lucky said - It was much needed light hearted relief, as know from the prologue the hell Bex goes through.)
And yes it gets dark in the middle and towards the end of the book, but above all, it is a true story of grit and determination, and Bex is quite possibly one of the strongest heroines I have ever read.
And Lucky, yes he was changed, but we got glimpses of the Lucky from the first half of the book, with his humour and one liners. But he just loved Bex so much.
It is a great story of strength and determination and a beautiful heartbreaking enduring love.
An excellent 5 stars.
Copy received from author in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont. Romance
Series : - 5th in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 5 stars
★Review★
I have to be honest, whilst I was so looking forward to Lucky's story, when I got this, I sort of put it off, knowing some of what happens to Bex (and the knowledge that what we didn't know, would be awful) from the previous book, I was not in the head space for this, knowing it would be heartbreaking.
Yes, I know I am a wimp!
However, I found myself laughing and smiling so much more than I thought I would (thank you god Lucky and Rosie!)
The first 50% or so we go over certain events from the previous book, but from Bex and Lucky's POV, so while there is a timeline overlap, and we know something awful is coming, it did not feel like a repeat. And I fell even more in love with Lucky than I thought, and indeed with Bex. I was unsure how much I would like an ex junkie stripper heroine, but she was so much more than I expected. I adored her too. So many parts of this book I bookmarked (usually something Lucky said - It was much needed light hearted relief, as know from the prologue the hell Bex goes through.)
And yes it gets dark in the middle and towards the end of the book, but above all, it is a true story of grit and determination, and Bex is quite possibly one of the strongest heroines I have ever read.
And Lucky, yes he was changed, but we got glimpses of the Lucky from the first half of the book, with his humour and one liners. But he just loved Bex so much.
It is a great story of strength and determination and a beautiful heartbreaking enduring love.
An excellent 5 stars.
September 3, 2018
Wowww!!!!! First of all Becky's & Gabriel's (Lucky's) was a story that I was dying to read !!! Surely is a beautiful, haunting, painful and very dark story!! But I really really loved it!!! Life is not a fairytale..... Bex has lived an awful life.... and finally she fell in love with Lucky!! She was such s strong and fierce woman!! On the other hand Lucky was a Alpha male, he was sweet, patient & loyal!!! Excellent read!!
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November 1, 2016
10/30/2016 -- 1.5 Stars
I've tried several by this author and I just don't like her style. I'm sure it's me. I like well developed characters and absolutely hate the insta-relationship thing. This one really sounded good. I think, if you don't have an issue with whole insta thing, then you'd probably like it. It really didn't work for me in a big way.
Happy Reading!
I've tried several by this author and I just don't like her style. I'm sure it's me. I like well developed characters and absolutely hate the insta-relationship thing. This one really sounded good. I think, if you don't have an issue with whole insta thing, then you'd probably like it. It really didn't work for me in a big way.
Happy Reading!
September 1, 2020
Dauntless is my favourite SOT novel right behind Bull's story. And that's because we get to see a side of Lucky we've never ever seen before. Throughout the whole series, Lucky has had this jovial nature about him, always making a crack out of a serious situation and always diffusing the tension. At times, its unwanted and completely the wrong time for his jokes, but who knew Lucky had a darker side to him then all the Sons combined? Throughout the series, it hints at a darkness deep within Lucky, behind this facade he puts up but yet, we truly do not comprehend how far that darkness reaches until it comes to Bex.
Throughout Dauntless, we rarely see the happy-go-lucky Lucky we normally seen. He's even more alpha and possessive than the other Sons, and its HOT. If anything, I fell in love with him even more. Who knew he had so much soul inside him? Bex awakens a beast deep inside him only she can sate and watching their tragic love story take place is a beautifully haunting thing. There is so much pain and heartache but there is also love and passion, happiness and hope. Finding a way to breathe and survive. Finding a way to make yourself feel worthy. This is a bit different from what we normally get from a Sons of Templar novel, but it's twice as captivating and extremely HOT. You guys will definitely want to read this one. You'll never see this one coming!
Throughout Dauntless, we rarely see the happy-go-lucky Lucky we normally seen. He's even more alpha and possessive than the other Sons, and its HOT. If anything, I fell in love with him even more. Who knew he had so much soul inside him? Bex awakens a beast deep inside him only she can sate and watching their tragic love story take place is a beautifully haunting thing. There is so much pain and heartache but there is also love and passion, happiness and hope. Finding a way to breathe and survive. Finding a way to make yourself feel worthy. This is a bit different from what we normally get from a Sons of Templar novel, but it's twice as captivating and extremely HOT. You guys will definitely want to read this one. You'll never see this one coming!
August 6, 2022
Okay so this was a hell of a lot darker than I thought it was going to be. It was also very different from the other books. I really liked it but some of the part in this book were hard to read.
October 27, 2016
5 Beautiful Sad Stars
Warning: drug use, addiction and rape.
Becky's life is full of sadness. She didn't grow up in a loving family, she grew up in a foster care and I really hate that horrible things happened to her. But then she met Lilly and she finally found a family she wanted. But there can't be happiness and sunshine all the time. Lilly's mom passed away and that is when Becky turns to drugs. Lilly found happiness with Asher, and Asher has a best friend (Lucky) who claimed Becky as his. Becky is spiraling out of control until she woke up in a hospital and decided enough is enough. She have plenty of support from her new and old friends.
Alpha Male Alert!! My ears perked up the minute he refused to let her go. Yippee!!
Lucky is handsome, funny and rough around the edges. Also, did I mention he's a biker? Bliss. Lucky had me laughing out loud a few times but then you see what he had to go through and survived it. I cried a few times as well. I'm falling for Lucky because he doesn't give up that easily when things get too hard. He heads over heel in love with Becky.
Tons of drama, sadness and happiness. Will there be more from this series, I sure hope so. I like Gage a lot and Rosie too. Please let there be more from this series :).
ARC/R2R received for my honest review.
Warning: drug use, addiction and rape.
Becky's life is full of sadness. She didn't grow up in a loving family, she grew up in a foster care and I really hate that horrible things happened to her. But then she met Lilly and she finally found a family she wanted. But there can't be happiness and sunshine all the time. Lilly's mom passed away and that is when Becky turns to drugs. Lilly found happiness with Asher, and Asher has a best friend (Lucky) who claimed Becky as his. Becky is spiraling out of control until she woke up in a hospital and decided enough is enough. She have plenty of support from her new and old friends.
Alpha Male Alert!! My ears perked up the minute he refused to let her go. Yippee!!
Lucky is handsome, funny and rough around the edges. Also, did I mention he's a biker? Bliss. Lucky had me laughing out loud a few times but then you see what he had to go through and survived it. I cried a few times as well. I'm falling for Lucky because he doesn't give up that easily when things get too hard. He heads over heel in love with Becky.
Tons of drama, sadness and happiness. Will there be more from this series, I sure hope so. I like Gage a lot and Rosie too. Please let there be more from this series :).
ARC/R2R received for my honest review.
November 2, 2016
I don't know what to say about this book. It was sooo good, but so dark. Lucky has always been the joker in this series, but with everything that happens in the book he looses that. I absolutely love his undying dedication to Bex. The things he says to her....swoon!! A great read, but a hard one.
August 21, 2018
5 Dark Heartbreak Stars
Dauntless by Anne Malcom is full of heartbreak and such sadness that I had a constant lump in my throat throughout. This is by far the darkest book I've read by Anne Malcom so far.
Bex's life didn't start out great, she grew up in foster care and came across monsters through most of her childhood. Then she met Lilly and her mam and then she finally had found her family. When Lilly's Mam dies of Cancer, it knocks Bex for six and she turns to drugs to block out the feels. Lilly has Asher to look out for her she certainly doesn't need a broken best friend so Bex' let the drugs rule the way. But when Bex wakes up in a hospital after an accidental almost overdose and she sees her best friend heartbroken at nearly losing someone else she love she sets out to make it right and is adamant to get clean and stay clean.
Lucky is one funny and rough around the edges biker, he is adamant he will save Becky no matter what she says or thinks of herself. He used humour throughout and had me in stitches. But we also saw a big change in his character mid-way through this book.
Dauntless had loads of drama, sadness, darkness and a little happiness throughout, this was one hell of a roller-coaster ride. I loved it and highly recommend reading it. Anne Malcom had become one of my favourite authors.
http://realtastypages.com
Dauntless by Anne Malcom is full of heartbreak and such sadness that I had a constant lump in my throat throughout. This is by far the darkest book I've read by Anne Malcom so far.
Bex's life didn't start out great, she grew up in foster care and came across monsters through most of her childhood. Then she met Lilly and her mam and then she finally had found her family. When Lilly's Mam dies of Cancer, it knocks Bex for six and she turns to drugs to block out the feels. Lilly has Asher to look out for her she certainly doesn't need a broken best friend so Bex' let the drugs rule the way. But when Bex wakes up in a hospital after an accidental almost overdose and she sees her best friend heartbroken at nearly losing someone else she love she sets out to make it right and is adamant to get clean and stay clean.
Lucky is one funny and rough around the edges biker, he is adamant he will save Becky no matter what she says or thinks of herself. He used humour throughout and had me in stitches. But we also saw a big change in his character mid-way through this book.
Dauntless had loads of drama, sadness, darkness and a little happiness throughout, this was one hell of a roller-coaster ride. I loved it and highly recommend reading it. Anne Malcom had become one of my favourite authors.
http://realtastypages.com
April 14, 2018
Bex is such a strong woman. Loved it
July 30, 2018
Dauntless
Every time I finish one of these books, I feel like it’s my new favorite. Each one just gets better and better. Dauntless was just amazing. So emotional and dark, and just.... tragically beautiful. I loved it and I can’t wait to start the next book in this awesome series!
Every time I finish one of these books, I feel like it’s my new favorite. Each one just gets better and better. Dauntless was just amazing. So emotional and dark, and just.... tragically beautiful. I loved it and I can’t wait to start the next book in this awesome series!
October 27, 2016
DiDi's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Warning this book could contain triggers for some, it contains rape, memories of child sexual abuse, emotional abuse, addiction and human trafficking.
This is probably one of the hardest reviews I’ve ever written, because I truly enjoyed Dauntless, but there were moments I almost felt like skimming because they were so painful and heartbreaking. I’ve been waiting for Lucky’s story since he spoke his first words in book one of the Sons of Templar MC series. While this book did not turn out the way I expected and I still couldn’t put it down. I expected funny, mild angst and hot, instead it is dark, emotional and yet still manages to have some humor and it’s hot. Please do not take my next words as minimizing addiction or victims of sex crimes and emotional abuse, because I know how hard it is to beat an addiction and to stay sober and I know victims of the horrible abuse that Bex suffered live with that pain, that they never get 100% over the abuse and emotional damage. Personally for me we spent too much time in Bex’s head, with her self-hate, self doubt and all her pain, saying that I do feel like Ms. Malcom stayed true to what someone might really feel when recovering, just too real for me. Some of the most heartbreaking moments for me were when Bex thinks she is dirty, you feel her pain and just want to hold her and reassure she is not dirty.
Dauntless is a heartbreaking story, but it’s one readers will enjoy. It takes you through the darkest times for both Bex and Lucky, sexy times, heartbreaking times and good times. And yes, behind Lucky’s funny, adorable and caring alpha persona is a man who is carrying a load of guilt and pain that Bex helps him deal with. Bex is so damaged and in so much pain that she is not open to any relationship, she doesn’t think she is worthy of love and affection. From their first meeting Lucky has been captivated with Bex, she would run but he wouldn’t let her ignore him. Lucky is the perfect person for Bex, he is so understanding, relentless, patient and caring, Bex never had a chance of pushing him away for good. Between Lucky, Lily, Gage and the rest of the Sons of Templar, Bex starts to heal and realize she is worthy of Lucky’s love. Gage is AMAZING in this book.
So here is where I sound like a crazy reader…Dauntless is a brilliantly written emotional, ugly dark story, but out of that darkness comes hard fought for happy times, hilarious moments and a love that may not overcome all but it is a beautiful love of understanding, compassion, passion and the strength to last a lifetime. Even with my reservations I loved Lucky and Bex’s story and I am hoping we get more books in this series!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
Warning this book could contain triggers for some, it contains rape, memories of child sexual abuse, emotional abuse, addiction and human trafficking.
This is probably one of the hardest reviews I’ve ever written, because I truly enjoyed Dauntless, but there were moments I almost felt like skimming because they were so painful and heartbreaking. I’ve been waiting for Lucky’s story since he spoke his first words in book one of the Sons of Templar MC series. While this book did not turn out the way I expected and I still couldn’t put it down. I expected funny, mild angst and hot, instead it is dark, emotional and yet still manages to have some humor and it’s hot. Please do not take my next words as minimizing addiction or victims of sex crimes and emotional abuse, because I know how hard it is to beat an addiction and to stay sober and I know victims of the horrible abuse that Bex suffered live with that pain, that they never get 100% over the abuse and emotional damage. Personally for me we spent too much time in Bex’s head, with her self-hate, self doubt and all her pain, saying that I do feel like Ms. Malcom stayed true to what someone might really feel when recovering, just too real for me. Some of the most heartbreaking moments for me were when Bex thinks she is dirty, you feel her pain and just want to hold her and reassure she is not dirty.
Dauntless is a heartbreaking story, but it’s one readers will enjoy. It takes you through the darkest times for both Bex and Lucky, sexy times, heartbreaking times and good times. And yes, behind Lucky’s funny, adorable and caring alpha persona is a man who is carrying a load of guilt and pain that Bex helps him deal with. Bex is so damaged and in so much pain that she is not open to any relationship, she doesn’t think she is worthy of love and affection. From their first meeting Lucky has been captivated with Bex, she would run but he wouldn’t let her ignore him. Lucky is the perfect person for Bex, he is so understanding, relentless, patient and caring, Bex never had a chance of pushing him away for good. Between Lucky, Lily, Gage and the rest of the Sons of Templar, Bex starts to heal and realize she is worthy of Lucky’s love. Gage is AMAZING in this book.
So here is where I sound like a crazy reader…Dauntless is a brilliantly written emotional, ugly dark story, but out of that darkness comes hard fought for happy times, hilarious moments and a love that may not overcome all but it is a beautiful love of understanding, compassion, passion and the strength to last a lifetime. Even with my reservations I loved Lucky and Bex’s story and I am hoping we get more books in this series!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
February 18, 2017
I thought Out of the ashes was my favorite Anne Malcom book but this one tops the list of her amazing stories . From the start of the series I could not wait to read Luckys book and the lucky lady that would capture his heart , he's so funny the things he would say had me laughing and also wanting to watch tv with him he would be a fun tv buddy , and when we learn about his past my heart broke for him , I also loved how patient he was with bex and how much he cared about her . Now onto Bex she was such a beautifully broken heroine once she makes a appearance in Beyond the Horizon and the way the first meeting with Lucky went I could not get the silly grin off my face and the way that book ended my heart drooped I needed more , she is fighting some demons that she doesn't know if she has the strength to keep fighting I found her character really remarkable . The relationship between the couple starts a little rocky with the heroine fighting her attraction to the hero but he is not giving up he has seen his brothers fall in love with feisty women and hes not letting this one slip away , the thing I love most about this authors books is she goes back and tells the story throw the couples eyes even though we read half the story in Beyond the Horizon it was really awesome to see in through bex and lucky we get more of what she was thinking and what was really going on with her . I think they helped one another they gave one another something that the other craved , the banter that they had going on had me grinning and laughing to were their were tears in my eyes speaking of tears there was a lot of balling my eyes out , the sex was super hot they had a intense connection . We also get to see more of the awesome characters we know and love I'm so excited to read some of the couples that are mentioned ( cough) Rosies story ( cough ) . copy provided for honest review
****************************************
hero = 10+
heroine = 10+
secondary characters = 10+
chemistry = 10
steam = 9
character development = 10+
pacing = 10
enjoyment =10+
writing style =10
storyline =10
romance =8
darkness level =9
humor =9
pov= mostly heroine but sometines in heros
ending = HEA
cover =10+
stars = 5+
author = 10+
would I recommend this book =yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
****************************************
hero = 10+
heroine = 10+
secondary characters = 10+
chemistry = 10
steam = 9
character development = 10+
pacing = 10
enjoyment =10+
writing style =10
storyline =10
romance =8
darkness level =9
humor =9
pov= mostly heroine but sometines in heros
ending = HEA
cover =10+
stars = 5+
author = 10+
would I recommend this book =yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
October 30, 2016
I did like their story, I've liked Lucky throughout the other books...and I'm glad Lucky and Bex finally figure it all out and get their HEA....BUT....this book just seemed to drag on for me....it was too repetitive....her constantly pushing him away thinking nothing of herself and her self depriving inner voice...it was 27 chapters of it over and over...him trying to tell her he wanted her...she was his...doesn't matter how tainted you think you are, what I see of you is the thing I want for the rest of my life kind of deal....but it didn't matter what anyone says to her she constantly pushing and pushing thinking she not worthy. She's not worthy of having Lex as a best friend....she can't drag lucky down...
I've read many many dark reads, and they are usually my go-to reads....it's what I read all the time....but this one was THE most depressing stories I've ever read! Don't get me wrong the things that happen to her in the present time of this book are bad....multiple rapes...getting beat by her ex on/off bf/wanna-be-pimp...her heroine addiction and her recovery.....they're bad....extremely bad, never mind what happened to her as a child...BUT...her character frustrated me so bad...I've finished the book with a headache!
It's a shame because I really do like this author...I've enjoyed all the other books in this series immensely....and the spin offs for unquiet mind....WOW...like all of them 5 star reads....this one just was not for me....and it's not very often I read a book I don't like....I'd been really looking forward to Lucky's HEA too :(
If I'd have been reading this and it had been by an unknown author I'd have even gave less than 3 stars...but I really do like this author and her books ALOT!
I've read many many dark reads, and they are usually my go-to reads....it's what I read all the time....but this one was THE most depressing stories I've ever read! Don't get me wrong the things that happen to her in the present time of this book are bad....multiple rapes...getting beat by her ex on/off bf/wanna-be-pimp...her heroine addiction and her recovery.....they're bad....extremely bad, never mind what happened to her as a child...BUT...her character frustrated me so bad...I've finished the book with a headache!
It's a shame because I really do like this author...I've enjoyed all the other books in this series immensely....and the spin offs for unquiet mind....WOW...like all of them 5 star reads....this one just was not for me....and it's not very often I read a book I don't like....I'd been really looking forward to Lucky's HEA too :(
If I'd have been reading this and it had been by an unknown author I'd have even gave less than 3 stars...but I really do like this author and her books ALOT!
October 17, 2016
"Sometimes the most courageous act a human can do is let someone love them"
Where to start with this review .. this book brought all kinds of emotions out of me including turning me into a blubbering mess. My heart broke into a thousand pieces for Becky and her journey in this book I really wanted her to get her happy ending and she sorta did in the end .. I ain't into spoilers in reviews so I won't go into detail about the book but believe me this book will bring you to your fucking knees you won't put it down and it will stay with you until the end of time as this book has the ability to do that .. Anne has done a fucking amazing job with this book and I believe it's her best work yet and that's saying a lot as I'm a massive fan of her work .. i truly believe this book deserves more than the 5* I can give it .. the storyline is one that hits families all over regardless of where your from addiction can hit you and your family ..
There are ALOT of pieces to this story and without giving spoilers I can't go into it but I want you to read it for yourself and this book is one of my top reads of 2016 and it's not a book I would normally read as it hits too close to home for me and probably will many others but I did and I'm glad I read it through the eyes of a survivor.
Lucky will always be her hero her villain her damnation her salvation
They didn't live happily ever after because this isn't a fairytale but they lived. With pain and darkness love and laughter but more importantly WITH EACH OTHER .. thank you Ann for choosing me to read this book for an honest review I hope I've done the book justice ❤️
Where to start with this review .. this book brought all kinds of emotions out of me including turning me into a blubbering mess. My heart broke into a thousand pieces for Becky and her journey in this book I really wanted her to get her happy ending and she sorta did in the end .. I ain't into spoilers in reviews so I won't go into detail about the book but believe me this book will bring you to your fucking knees you won't put it down and it will stay with you until the end of time as this book has the ability to do that .. Anne has done a fucking amazing job with this book and I believe it's her best work yet and that's saying a lot as I'm a massive fan of her work .. i truly believe this book deserves more than the 5* I can give it .. the storyline is one that hits families all over regardless of where your from addiction can hit you and your family ..
There are ALOT of pieces to this story and without giving spoilers I can't go into it but I want you to read it for yourself and this book is one of my top reads of 2016 and it's not a book I would normally read as it hits too close to home for me and probably will many others but I did and I'm glad I read it through the eyes of a survivor.
Lucky will always be her hero her villain her damnation her salvation
They didn't live happily ever after because this isn't a fairytale but they lived. With pain and darkness love and laughter but more importantly WITH EACH OTHER .. thank you Ann for choosing me to read this book for an honest review I hope I've done the book justice ❤️
July 20, 2017
I was glad when I finished this book. If I wanted romance, this book wasn't the book to give me that. I understand that Bex is a drug addict and she is trying to recover and so that's what the book would concentrate on. I dare say, I shouldn't read books based on that because to be realistic, what else could they do but concentrate on the person with the issue rather than the couple.
In the end, the storyline just seemed to drag on and on, my attention wandered and my emotions failed to connect with the story which is a shame because I was really looking forward to reading about Bex and Lucky's relationship.
In the end, the storyline just seemed to drag on and on, my attention wandered and my emotions failed to connect with the story which is a shame because I was really looking forward to reading about Bex and Lucky's relationship.
November 8, 2016
DNF at around page 204 because it just got so boring with her pushing Lucky away. It was all just so hard.
I liked other books in the series so this really surprises me a lot.
I liked other books in the series so this really surprises me a lot.
June 30, 2018
DISCLAIMER TO MY FELLOW GOODREADER
This review is my personal opinion and may contain: spoilers, quotes, rants and swearing.
23 year old Rebecca “Bex” Flannery has been a survivor since birth. She was forced to fight for everything she had in this world. When she was old enough to truly understand the darkness in the world, she decided to embrace it. Shape it. Become it. She became a cliche when she started stripping to but herself through med school. In the end she dropped out to carve a new path. Only her demons caught up to her. Then mid 30 something Gabriel “Lucky” came into her life.
“Yeah. You’re wild, baby. In a good way. No way in hell I’d try to rein in the spirit dancing behind those eyes. It’s what drew me in, part of why I like you so fuckin’ much. Caging that, it’d be a crime to humanity.”
“You men, you’re all so desperate for validation for your manliness that you seek out women you think need saving. Fashion them into damsels who need their dragons slayed. Have you ever thought for a moment we could slay our own fucking dragons?”
This book had a beautiful ugly vibe. It touched on addiction, love, friendship and abuse. The hero has been in the background from the beginning of this series so it was nice to see his story unfold. The heroine made her appearance in book #4 that gave us a glimpse at how dark this one would be. I really was thrilled about everything. There were little snippets of other characters as well.
Cliffhanger – no (book #5 of series)
POV - Bex, Lucky, Lily & Asher
This review is my personal opinion and may contain: spoilers, quotes, rants and swearing.
23 year old Rebecca “Bex” Flannery has been a survivor since birth. She was forced to fight for everything she had in this world. When she was old enough to truly understand the darkness in the world, she decided to embrace it. Shape it. Become it. She became a cliche when she started stripping to but herself through med school. In the end she dropped out to carve a new path. Only her demons caught up to her. Then mid 30 something Gabriel “Lucky” came into her life.
“Yeah. You’re wild, baby. In a good way. No way in hell I’d try to rein in the spirit dancing behind those eyes. It’s what drew me in, part of why I like you so fuckin’ much. Caging that, it’d be a crime to humanity.”
“You men, you’re all so desperate for validation for your manliness that you seek out women you think need saving. Fashion them into damsels who need their dragons slayed. Have you ever thought for a moment we could slay our own fucking dragons?”
This book had a beautiful ugly vibe. It touched on addiction, love, friendship and abuse. The hero has been in the background from the beginning of this series so it was nice to see his story unfold. The heroine made her appearance in book #4 that gave us a glimpse at how dark this one would be. I really was thrilled about everything. There were little snippets of other characters as well.
Cliffhanger – no (book #5 of series)
POV - Bex, Lucky, Lily & Asher
August 12, 2018
I received a copy of this book from the author and I voluntarily reviewed it. Thank you Anne Malcom!
This book covered dark themes. Themes I love reading about; addiction, recovery, grief. There's something special about Anne Malcom's writing. It is fluid and full of personality. She also crafts these beautiful metaphors, although there weren't as many as I would've liked in this book. In Beyond the Horizon, the book was brimming with beautiful literary language, and I was missing that from Dauntless.
I loved the plot of the story. The struggle and back and forth was very believable and honest. I loved that aspect of it. I felt as though the pace was off a little. It seemed like so much happened in the last 10%, like maybe too much happened in the last 10%. I think the book would have also needed a little more editing. I would have liked to see the resolution of the conflict begin a little earlier and take longer, but that's just me.
One thing that really wowed me was Anne Malcom's character development. It's slow, real, raw, believable. Lucky and Bex... sigh... such beautifully broken characters with demons dancing behind their eyes. With devils on their backs, and, pardon my humour, but no Florence Welch to tell them shake it out and to shake them off. Malcom creates such complex characters I forget they are fictional at times.
Anne Malcom remains one of my all time favourite authors, and I cannot wait to read her next masterpiece.
This book covered dark themes. Themes I love reading about; addiction, recovery, grief. There's something special about Anne Malcom's writing. It is fluid and full of personality. She also crafts these beautiful metaphors, although there weren't as many as I would've liked in this book. In Beyond the Horizon, the book was brimming with beautiful literary language, and I was missing that from Dauntless.
I loved the plot of the story. The struggle and back and forth was very believable and honest. I loved that aspect of it. I felt as though the pace was off a little. It seemed like so much happened in the last 10%, like maybe too much happened in the last 10%. I think the book would have also needed a little more editing. I would have liked to see the resolution of the conflict begin a little earlier and take longer, but that's just me.
One thing that really wowed me was Anne Malcom's character development. It's slow, real, raw, believable. Lucky and Bex... sigh... such beautifully broken characters with demons dancing behind their eyes. With devils on their backs, and, pardon my humour, but no Florence Welch to tell them shake it out and to shake them off. Malcom creates such complex characters I forget they are fictional at times.
Anne Malcom remains one of my all time favourite authors, and I cannot wait to read her next masterpiece.
January 22, 2018
NO WORDS
This particular book gutted me stem to sternum. I had to take breaks and go to a happy place and then come back. But I will say Lucky and Bex are the bomb!!!! This book explodes from page to page. Fantastic job 👏👏👏👏👏👏
This particular book gutted me stem to sternum. I had to take breaks and go to a happy place and then come back. But I will say Lucky and Bex are the bomb!!!! This book explodes from page to page. Fantastic job 👏👏👏👏👏👏
December 8, 2020
I have loved the other books but this one is impossible for me to review without a rant .
Lucky was a lovable hero and he was great . He would have done anything for Bex. He was possessive, protective, and damn determined to help her and love her .
My problem was the heroine who was Bex. If you read the last book then you know we met Bex in Asher and Lily’s book. I didn’t like her then either. She was and still is self destructive while dragging Lily down with her. In this one she was bringing Lucky down with her .
It seemed there was nothing new to write because this was so repetitive. She was a stripper and part of her issues stemmed from being a stripper but yet she kept fighting Lucky and Lily and wanted to go back to stripping.Even after Lucky and Lily almost got killed she still went back to the strip club . It was extremely frustrating.
She whined about how she had to eat and she had to strip but she didn’t . Once she had savings and at any time the Mc or just Lucky would have taken care of her financially until she got herself together .
I absolutely despised Bex. She treated others badly especially Lucky and was a total bitch . Did I feel sympathy for her yes . Especially the things that happened when she was a child but she acts like she’s the only one who had pain or trauma . A lot of things that happened happened to her because of her bad choices and people she chose to be around even knowing what kind of people they were .
I hate that I didn’t love this book and it won’t stop me from reading the rest of the series but I will avoid this heroine like the plague . I hope the author murders her off . Lucky deserves a better woman and Lily deserved a better best friend . She was a selfish , sarcastic , self destructive cow.
Ok so that’s just the tip of the ice berg of what I felt reading this book. You can’t win them all so I will go on to the next book !
Lucky was a lovable hero and he was great . He would have done anything for Bex. He was possessive, protective, and damn determined to help her and love her .
My problem was the heroine who was Bex. If you read the last book then you know we met Bex in Asher and Lily’s book. I didn’t like her then either. She was and still is self destructive while dragging Lily down with her. In this one she was bringing Lucky down with her .
It seemed there was nothing new to write because this was so repetitive. She was a stripper and part of her issues stemmed from being a stripper but yet she kept fighting Lucky and Lily and wanted to go back to stripping.Even after Lucky and Lily almost got killed she still went back to the strip club . It was extremely frustrating.
She whined about how she had to eat and she had to strip but she didn’t . Once she had savings and at any time the Mc or just Lucky would have taken care of her financially until she got herself together .
I absolutely despised Bex. She treated others badly especially Lucky and was a total bitch . Did I feel sympathy for her yes . Especially the things that happened when she was a child but she acts like she’s the only one who had pain or trauma . A lot of things that happened happened to her because of her bad choices and people she chose to be around even knowing what kind of people they were .
I hate that I didn’t love this book and it won’t stop me from reading the rest of the series but I will avoid this heroine like the plague . I hope the author murders her off . Lucky deserves a better woman and Lily deserved a better best friend . She was a selfish , sarcastic , self destructive cow.
Ok so that’s just the tip of the ice berg of what I felt reading this book. You can’t win them all so I will go on to the next book !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2016
This is Anne Malcom #5 of her MC series we finally get Lucky's story. Wow yes this is Anne's darkest, twisted, filthy messed up beautiful story yet. Becky has lived in hell her whole life but she's a fighter and so strong you swear she is a machine until Lucky. Lucky can see the real Becky hiding and no one ever has seen the real her. Lucky isn't all smiling in this book we finally get to see the darkness in him too. This book really opens your eyes. Do you truly know someone or they hiding themselves from there past or even themselves? Will Becky finally lay her demons to rest? I'm not giving out any spoilers better to read this book on a blank slate. You will gasp, cry, scream and be shocked reading this story. Thank you Anne for writing a amazing story that yes it's not all lovey dovey and rainbows but it's about two people who have things in common that eat at them daily and being together they can finally have themselves some little light! 5/5 dauntless stars deserves 10 ****Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Read provided for a voluntarily Advanced Reader Copy of this book ****
October 28, 2016
Holy hell what a ride!
OMG I just KNEW that Becky and Luckys story would be EPIC!!! Lucky, the jokester out law, and Becky, the broken exotic dancer completed each other! This was not a fairytale! This was real, raw and gritty! This was life! Two people who have lived and still live a horrific life come together and fight to LIVE! The things they go through is horrendous and heart breaking! Only the strong could survive and not just survive but actually pull through the nightmares and choose to live for themselves and love!!! This was an AMAZING story that had me from beginning to end!! NOW I reallllllly need Gage's story and also Rosie and Luke's story like ASAP PLEASSSSEEE!!!!!
OMG I just KNEW that Becky and Luckys story would be EPIC!!! Lucky, the jokester out law, and Becky, the broken exotic dancer completed each other! This was not a fairytale! This was real, raw and gritty! This was life! Two people who have lived and still live a horrific life come together and fight to LIVE! The things they go through is horrendous and heart breaking! Only the strong could survive and not just survive but actually pull through the nightmares and choose to live for themselves and love!!! This was an AMAZING story that had me from beginning to end!! NOW I reallllllly need Gage's story and also Rosie and Luke's story like ASAP PLEASSSSEEE!!!!!
May 17, 2021
5 beautiful stars
If I could give more than five stars I would. This book was ugly. Yet, it proved that beauty can survive in ugliness. This wasn't a hearts, glitter, and sparkly unicorn. It was angst, it was heartbreaking. It was finding salvation in a life of destruction. It was looking your demons in the eye and breaking free from their chains.
My heart hurt for Bex. It hurt for .lucky/Gabriel. Gabriel had some of the best lines in the book trying to teach Bex her worth. He was steadfast in his dedication to her. He loved her unconditionally and that was beautiful to see. He was an angel dressed in biker clothes and rode a Harley, but he was a angel.
These two went through hell and back.This has been my favorite of the series. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
If I could give more than five stars I would. This book was ugly. Yet, it proved that beauty can survive in ugliness. This wasn't a hearts, glitter, and sparkly unicorn. It was angst, it was heartbreaking. It was finding salvation in a life of destruction. It was looking your demons in the eye and breaking free from their chains.
My heart hurt for Bex. It hurt for .lucky/Gabriel. Gabriel had some of the best lines in the book trying to teach Bex her worth. He was steadfast in his dedication to her. He loved her unconditionally and that was beautiful to see. He was an angel dressed in biker clothes and rode a Harley, but he was a angel.
These two went through hell and back.This has been my favorite of the series. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
February 18, 2017
Just finished Dauntless and WOW! Just WOW!!! Anne Malcom you have outdone yourself with this one. Such a heartbreaking book. So real, funny, sad, smoking hot, sweet, raw, horrifying and most of all beautiful. Such a truly beautifully real, flawed love story. Lucky and Bex were never going to have a fairytale romance - thank god. Their love story is so much more than that. It is everything. This book has jumped into my top 10 this year and will be a definite reread. Cannot recommend this book enough
October 29, 2016
Wow that was freaking intense.
I know I'm starting at the end, but I had won this book at a release party. I was assured it was and standalone - and it was....but I really want to read the others in the series now.
This is not a fluffy romance - nope, this one is gritty and real. The past these two characters lived through was horrible, but they were trying to rise above it....only one was sinking instead of floating. I couldn't put this down and I'm not going to say more so everyone can experience it themselves. I will say I loved the freaking tattoo.
I know I'm starting at the end, but I had won this book at a release party. I was assured it was and standalone - and it was....but I really want to read the others in the series now.
This is not a fluffy romance - nope, this one is gritty and real. The past these two characters lived through was horrible, but they were trying to rise above it....only one was sinking instead of floating. I couldn't put this down and I'm not going to say more so everyone can experience it themselves. I will say I loved the freaking tattoo.
November 12, 2016
Dragged, Depressing, wanted to slap h, woe is me h. Almost 1/4 through, but read reviews and many said life was too short to waste on such repetitive, dragged out, woe is me BS. Sorry I usually like this Author. But, nah.....
June 16, 2018
Least favourite book of the series. The first 50% of the book was a retelling of the last book. It was dark, and I can do dark, but the book lacked a true connection between the hero and the heroine In my opinion. I just didn’t feel this one.
November 11, 2016
3 stars
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