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Bakery Brothers #4
The Starman Strategy
Newton Briggs.
Asexual, old women magnet, and convicted killer.
The youngest Briggs brother has been sent to prison over the ‘accidental’ death of Jeffery Sharpe. He doesn’t feel guilty for his crime. He did it for his brothers. All of them.
But he is scared.
Newt’s strategy to survive Be himself.
He quickly learns that might not be enough.
The top dog, Shaw, wants him dead.
Thomas, a previous patient of Stone’s, wants to spank him.
And Leo…well, Leo just wants to keep him safe.
Unbeknownst to Newt, Stone planned ahead and hired him a bodyguard behind bars.
Sure, it’s the same guy that almost choked Newt to death in the back of the bakery, but after Newt quite publicly throws up on him in front of the whole wing, Leo considers them even.
With Leo at his side, Newt integrates himself into E-wing and accepts his place in prison.
Newt did not expect to make friends who feel more like family.
He didn’t expect to grow strong feelings for his bodyguard/cellmate to the point he wants to kiss him.
And he definitely didn’t expect to be serenaded in the shower by a man tattooed head to toe as a snake.
Being behind bars is not at all what Newt imagined, but one thing is for sure, life won’t be the same when it’s all over…
Asexual, old women magnet, and convicted killer.
The youngest Briggs brother has been sent to prison over the ‘accidental’ death of Jeffery Sharpe. He doesn’t feel guilty for his crime. He did it for his brothers. All of them.
But he is scared.
Newt’s strategy to survive Be himself.
He quickly learns that might not be enough.
The top dog, Shaw, wants him dead.
Thomas, a previous patient of Stone’s, wants to spank him.
And Leo…well, Leo just wants to keep him safe.
Unbeknownst to Newt, Stone planned ahead and hired him a bodyguard behind bars.
Sure, it’s the same guy that almost choked Newt to death in the back of the bakery, but after Newt quite publicly throws up on him in front of the whole wing, Leo considers them even.
With Leo at his side, Newt integrates himself into E-wing and accepts his place in prison.
Newt did not expect to make friends who feel more like family.
He didn’t expect to grow strong feelings for his bodyguard/cellmate to the point he wants to kiss him.
And he definitely didn’t expect to be serenaded in the shower by a man tattooed head to toe as a snake.
Being behind bars is not at all what Newt imagined, but one thing is for sure, life won’t be the same when it’s all over…
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 15, 2024
21 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
About the author
Louise Collins
45 books634 followersWriter of mm romance and erotica.
I write the stories I'd love to read, I hope you enjoy them too.
Lover of Romance but not without angst along the way.
Seduced by the dancing of a neanderthal and now a mother of two monsters.
Drinks tea with a passion, adores dogs, and their sea dwelling cousins.
Failed two chocolate eating challenges but will return for round three.
https://mailchi.mp/ad6955eed18f/louis...
♥
Facebook
I write the stories I'd love to read, I hope you enjoy them too.
Lover of Romance but not without angst along the way.
Seduced by the dancing of a neanderthal and now a mother of two monsters.
Drinks tea with a passion, adores dogs, and their sea dwelling cousins.
Failed two chocolate eating challenges but will return for round three.
https://mailchi.mp/ad6955eed18f/louis...
♥
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 25, 2024
Absolutely LOVED this - I laughed, cried, and felt all of the emotions.
Newt reminds me so much of myself at his age with the naivety and lack of life experience, except I didn't know that being Asexual was actually a thing whereas Newt knows who he is and what he does and doesn't want. I loved the Ace representation and also the inclusion of the ignorance of others as to what it means. When people say how do you know you don't like it if you haven't tried it - seriously?? I loved the conversations that came from it, the emotional turmoil that Newt experienced (been there, got a fair few tshirts) and also the way Newt had friends who did understand and stuck up for him.
I also liked how it was highlighted that some people believe people of Ace orientation should compromise to keep their partner sexually satisfied - if your partner doesn't understand something that is so fundamentally you, they aren't the right person. It's not a compromise to engage in sexual activity when it's something you really don't want! It's not like splitting up the household chores or deciding what to have for dinner 😂 Love how this whole topic was approached and also that it wasn't an MMM relationship, which seems to be the predominant dynamic whenever there's an Ace character involved. That's like saying someone who's Ace can't be in a successful relationship unless that person has another partner that meets their sexual needs - love how this showed you can be Asexual and enough for your partner.
The humour throughout the book was great, so funny that my asthma flare up got even worse! The last 10% especially had me absolutely wheezing 😂😂
I'm really hoping that there will be stories to come for Shaw and Riley, and the other inmates too because I'm invested in knowing what happens to them now.
Newt reminds me so much of myself at his age with the naivety and lack of life experience, except I didn't know that being Asexual was actually a thing whereas Newt knows who he is and what he does and doesn't want. I loved the Ace representation and also the inclusion of the ignorance of others as to what it means. When people say how do you know you don't like it if you haven't tried it - seriously?? I loved the conversations that came from it, the emotional turmoil that Newt experienced (been there, got a fair few tshirts) and also the way Newt had friends who did understand and stuck up for him.
I also liked how it was highlighted that some people believe people of Ace orientation should compromise to keep their partner sexually satisfied - if your partner doesn't understand something that is so fundamentally you, they aren't the right person. It's not a compromise to engage in sexual activity when it's something you really don't want! It's not like splitting up the household chores or deciding what to have for dinner 😂 Love how this whole topic was approached and also that it wasn't an MMM relationship, which seems to be the predominant dynamic whenever there's an Ace character involved. That's like saying someone who's Ace can't be in a successful relationship unless that person has another partner that meets their sexual needs - love how this showed you can be Asexual and enough for your partner.
The humour throughout the book was great, so funny that my asthma flare up got even worse! The last 10% especially had me absolutely wheezing 😂😂
I'm really hoping that there will be stories to come for Shaw and Riley, and the other inmates too because I'm invested in knowing what happens to them now.
June 16, 2024
Ahhh I loved this book so much. You know those books that have you wanting to put off all your responsibilities so you can read it in one sitting? That was this book for me.
It’s the fourth and final one in the series which is sad because I loved these brothers but after meeting the guys that are going to be in the next series I’m soo excited!!
I’ve been wanting Newt’s book since the beginning of this series. He’s just so sweet and innocent and unlike his brothers. When we met Leo in one of the books (I can’t remember which one) I immediately wanted him to be Newt’s love interest, so I’m happy that’s what happened.
So Newt gets sent to jail for poisoning and killing a man that tried to kill his brothers, I guess he’s not so innocent after all. The majorly of this book is set in prison. Anyway he’s the baby of the family and his brothers are super protective of him so they get Leo, who’s already in jail, to look after Newt while he is there. It starts as Leo being his bodyguard and then turns into so much more.
Newt is asexual so their relationship is pretty gradual but feelings actually start a lot earlier than I thought they would which I was happy about. Leo has a disorder where he feels no pain, he can’t tell if something is too hot or cold, his bladder doesn’t let him know when he has to pee among many other issues the disorder comes with. Newt suffers from a dissociative disorder so they are both dealing with some things.
I thought they meshed so well together. They were so cute being all cuddly and protective of each other. I loved both of the characters so much. I thought Leo suited Newt well, especially with Newt being asexual and Leo being celibate for 7 years and even before that his sexual history was very sparse because with his condition he didn’t get aroused like many people. So Newt being ace wasn’t ever a problem for him. The romance wasn’t like a huge huge part of this book but just the whole thing was so good.
Speaking of, I loved all of the secondary characters so much!! They made this book what it was and I didn’t even care when we focused on them and not so much the MCs because it was so entertaining and hilarious. I was sad when Newt got released because it meant leaving those guys and I wanted more of them! (Newt was sad as well) I think my favorite was Shaw which was surprising. I’m mostly excited for his and Riley’s book! I wish it was the next one but I’m thinking it’s going to be Scott and Thomas because they are both getting out of jail soon. I can’t wait for that series!!
NO CHEATING
NO OP DRAMA (the therapist is a thirst bucket and flirts with Leo but he’s definitely not interested)
THIRD ACT BREAK UP (doesn’t last long)
HFN/HEA
It’s the fourth and final one in the series which is sad because I loved these brothers but after meeting the guys that are going to be in the next series I’m soo excited!!
I’ve been wanting Newt’s book since the beginning of this series. He’s just so sweet and innocent and unlike his brothers. When we met Leo in one of the books (I can’t remember which one) I immediately wanted him to be Newt’s love interest, so I’m happy that’s what happened.
So Newt gets sent to jail for poisoning and killing a man that tried to kill his brothers, I guess he’s not so innocent after all. The majorly of this book is set in prison. Anyway he’s the baby of the family and his brothers are super protective of him so they get Leo, who’s already in jail, to look after Newt while he is there. It starts as Leo being his bodyguard and then turns into so much more.
Newt is asexual so their relationship is pretty gradual but feelings actually start a lot earlier than I thought they would which I was happy about. Leo has a disorder where he feels no pain, he can’t tell if something is too hot or cold, his bladder doesn’t let him know when he has to pee among many other issues the disorder comes with. Newt suffers from a dissociative disorder so they are both dealing with some things.
I thought they meshed so well together. They were so cute being all cuddly and protective of each other. I loved both of the characters so much. I thought Leo suited Newt well, especially with Newt being asexual and Leo being celibate for 7 years and even before that his sexual history was very sparse because with his condition he didn’t get aroused like many people. So Newt being ace wasn’t ever a problem for him. The romance wasn’t like a huge huge part of this book but just the whole thing was so good.
Speaking of, I loved all of the secondary characters so much!! They made this book what it was and I didn’t even care when we focused on them and not so much the MCs because it was so entertaining and hilarious. I was sad when Newt got released because it meant leaving those guys and I wanted more of them! (Newt was sad as well) I think my favorite was Shaw which was surprising. I’m mostly excited for his and Riley’s book! I wish it was the next one but I’m thinking it’s going to be Scott and Thomas because they are both getting out of jail soon. I can’t wait for that series!!
NO CHEATING
NO OP DRAMA (the therapist is a thirst bucket and flirts with Leo but he’s definitely not interested)
THIRD ACT BREAK UP (doesn’t last long)
HFN/HEA
July 7, 2024
Another brilliant piece of work!
I was right in from the first line where Newt got a flick to his cheek.
The author has a way of writing! The story was everything I love about a, on first sight lighthearted humorous read, but when you’re reading you’ll find out it goes way deeper, with hurt comfort and all the feels, in a comforting sense. A story that made me laugh and shed tears.
This is the fourth and last of the Bakery Brothers series. It’s about Newton the baby brother.
Sentence to two years Newt got a hard-needed bodyguard in prison, his cellmate Leo.
Awww Newt, he’s such a doll, and big burly Leo, way too soft-hearted. Both with a condition, one with dissociation disorder, and one with congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis.
It’s impossible to describe everything happening, just let me tell you READ IT YOURSELF, it’s soooo good.
There are so many things I wanted to highlight.
Sweet innocent Newt has all the feelings and doesn’t know what to do with them. Imagine having butterflies and don’t know what they are.
“Is that the first time you’ve kissed anyone?”
“No.”
“I kiss Triton all the time.”
“Triton. Your cat?”
“Yeah. That counts.”
The banter between the co-prisoners was super duper entertaining, the brothers together was more than fun.
All these wonderful people with all their imperfections, which made them perfectly imperfect!
There is a more than wonderful rep of Ace, I loved it so much!!
Yes, dear people, we got ourselves a winner!!
Bow to the author for this extraordinary story!
I was right in from the first line where Newt got a flick to his cheek.
The author has a way of writing! The story was everything I love about a, on first sight lighthearted humorous read, but when you’re reading you’ll find out it goes way deeper, with hurt comfort and all the feels, in a comforting sense. A story that made me laugh and shed tears.
This is the fourth and last of the Bakery Brothers series. It’s about Newton the baby brother.
Sentence to two years Newt got a hard-needed bodyguard in prison, his cellmate Leo.
Awww Newt, he’s such a doll, and big burly Leo, way too soft-hearted. Both with a condition, one with dissociation disorder, and one with congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis.
It’s impossible to describe everything happening, just let me tell you READ IT YOURSELF, it’s soooo good.
There are so many things I wanted to highlight.
Sweet innocent Newt has all the feelings and doesn’t know what to do with them. Imagine having butterflies and don’t know what they are.
“Is that the first time you’ve kissed anyone?”
“No.”
“I kiss Triton all the time.”
“Triton. Your cat?”
“Yeah. That counts.”
The banter between the co-prisoners was super duper entertaining, the brothers together was more than fun.
All these wonderful people with all their imperfections, which made them perfectly imperfect!
There is a more than wonderful rep of Ace, I loved it so much!!
Yes, dear people, we got ourselves a winner!!
Bow to the author for this extraordinary story!
July 27, 2024
Was this prison HMS Brixton or a Holiday Inn? When the inmates began playing cards and giving each other haircuts at the table set up outside the cells, I had to check!
I can see why the author wrote this prison as a low menace place because I would have been terrified for Newt on every page if he faced the threat of beatings and rape. The relationship story would have been lost on me, so I appreciate that though the setting was the grimness of prison, the humanity came out on top. Even the shanking scene of Leo being attacked was more showing Leo’s lack of pain receptors than the terrors of prison confinement.
Here was Newt, the most charming, sweet, and lovable of the Bakery Brothers. I put off reading this because Newt’s sexuality is ace and that’s not a reading jam for me. The author did really well with it. Leo as a romantic partner to Newt matched him with his aromantic tendencies. It was interesting to see how the many kisses, touches, and cuddles sufficed for both. And, for this reader, too. 👍
How Newt hangs in there for eighteen months of a two year sentence was a brilliant read! The author is at the top of their game here. All of the side characters came alive with the excellent writing. With the depth and care in how they were written I hope that they all get future books. But, for a while I had to read with one eye shut for the snake man. Ewww! Glad that he was humanized by his budding relationship with his cellmate.
My heart jumped with pleasure when Jude’s voice was heard. My favorite character, and I still think that he didn’t get the book that his serious nature deserved. I loved him here, like a guardian angel for Newt. These brothers exemplify family loyalty.
Did anyone else get a ‘Wizard of Oz’ vibe when Newt had to say goodbye to his found family? I was waiting to read, “I’ll miss you most of all”, with the goodbye to Leo.
A heart tugging scene along with their eventual reunion.
Loved how all the brothers had their cameos with their lovers in the wonderful ending scenes.
I like the Briggs Brothers so much! Hope they have a place in any future books set in their world.
I can see why the author wrote this prison as a low menace place because I would have been terrified for Newt on every page if he faced the threat of beatings and rape. The relationship story would have been lost on me, so I appreciate that though the setting was the grimness of prison, the humanity came out on top. Even the shanking scene of Leo being attacked was more showing Leo’s lack of pain receptors than the terrors of prison confinement.
Here was Newt, the most charming, sweet, and lovable of the Bakery Brothers. I put off reading this because Newt’s sexuality is ace and that’s not a reading jam for me. The author did really well with it. Leo as a romantic partner to Newt matched him with his aromantic tendencies. It was interesting to see how the many kisses, touches, and cuddles sufficed for both. And, for this reader, too. 👍
How Newt hangs in there for eighteen months of a two year sentence was a brilliant read! The author is at the top of their game here. All of the side characters came alive with the excellent writing. With the depth and care in how they were written I hope that they all get future books. But, for a while I had to read with one eye shut for the snake man. Ewww! Glad that he was humanized by his budding relationship with his cellmate.
My heart jumped with pleasure when Jude’s voice was heard. My favorite character, and I still think that he didn’t get the book that his serious nature deserved. I loved him here, like a guardian angel for Newt. These brothers exemplify family loyalty.
Did anyone else get a ‘Wizard of Oz’ vibe when Newt had to say goodbye to his found family? I was waiting to read, “I’ll miss you most of all”, with the goodbye to Leo.
A heart tugging scene along with their eventual reunion.
Loved how all the brothers had their cameos with their lovers in the wonderful ending scenes.
I like the Briggs Brothers so much! Hope they have a place in any future books set in their world.
June 4, 2024
OMG!!!! This book 😭😭😭 I had the privilege of receiving an ARC and Newts book was so freaking good! I have loved all the bakery brother books but there is just something special about Newt’s story. Stone, Mickey, and Jude all have their own ways of looking out for Newt and their care for him and each other always shines through all through the series. This series at its core I feel is about family and finding more people that also become your family. Yes, that’s often through romance with Robin, Luck, and Aaron but not always. There are plenty of people that the Briggs brothers draw into their family circle.
I loved getting to see Newt shine, he didn’t suddenly become a badass in prison but he was finding new parts of himself and learned how to be away from the safety of his brothers. Leo was awesome, I have wanted to see more from him since book 1. And he did not disappoint. Louise wrote Leo and Newts relationship so well!!! It was sweet and beautiful and so warm!!!
And don’t get me started on the other side characters. I loved them all!!!
This book is low spice with no sex scenes, because Newt is asexual. And I thought Louise did an amazing job showcasing his sexuality and the well intentioned but harmful reactions that some of the other characters had. The worst part of this book is that I finished it. And it’s the end of the Briggs brothers series 😭😭😭😭 I truly hope this will not be the last we see of them completely though and I’m crossing my fingers for some of the side characters to get their own books or novellas!!
I loved getting to see Newt shine, he didn’t suddenly become a badass in prison but he was finding new parts of himself and learned how to be away from the safety of his brothers. Leo was awesome, I have wanted to see more from him since book 1. And he did not disappoint. Louise wrote Leo and Newts relationship so well!!! It was sweet and beautiful and so warm!!!
And don’t get me started on the other side characters. I loved them all!!!
This book is low spice with no sex scenes, because Newt is asexual. And I thought Louise did an amazing job showcasing his sexuality and the well intentioned but harmful reactions that some of the other characters had. The worst part of this book is that I finished it. And it’s the end of the Briggs brothers series 😭😭😭😭 I truly hope this will not be the last we see of them completely though and I’m crossing my fingers for some of the side characters to get their own books or novellas!!
August 27, 2025
August 2025
Kindle edition
Wouldn't have minded if it was a bit longer. Another one getting two families. I am surprised how much I liked Shaw and their friendship. Scott finally looks like he's got someone. I'm surprised Jude sent him in there. One rough incident, the rest felt like a sitcom. Leo and Newt were adorable. The third act split irritated me, but I did like that Newt spoke his mind to both Shaw and Leo. Nicely wrapped up ending for the Briggs' brothers.
Kindle edition
Wouldn't have minded if it was a bit longer. Another one getting two families. I am surprised how much I liked Shaw and their friendship. Scott finally looks like he's got someone. I'm surprised Jude sent him in there. One rough incident, the rest felt like a sitcom. Leo and Newt were adorable. The third act split irritated me, but I did like that Newt spoke his mind to both Shaw and Leo. Nicely wrapped up ending for the Briggs' brothers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2024
I was expecting the last brother of the Bakery Brothers to have the best story for an epic conclusion, but it sadly fell flat. I really have nothing to say about this one except there were a lot of editing errors. When even the main character’s name is spelled wrong in a couple places - tells me not a lot of love or care went into this.
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May 20, 2025Newton Briggs from The Starman Strategy is asexual!
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https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
June 16, 2024
Sweet, but I do find fictional prisons a bit weird.
June 22, 2024
3+ Less funny in general than some of the others. Surprisingly heart warming in its own way.
June 16, 2024
I have been waiting for this for soooo long, I was midway reading an entirely different series but had to skip the next book to jump over and read this as soon as it was released as I was way too excited. I have loved Newt through the entire series and this book did not disappoint. I was expecting this book to only partly take place in a prison setting so to have the whole thing be for the entirety of Newt's sentence was a surprise but it did not disappoint. In fact I now need more of the stories of all of his fellow inmates (primarilt Scott and Shaw!!) This was another gripping read from an amazing author and how the asexual aspect was addressed was done really well with a perfect pairing with Leo. I will definitely be re-reading this entire series again, absolutely amazing! I loved that we got to see more of big brother Jude but missed not really getting the resolution of what happened between him and Luck after the accident but at least it was touched upon. As ever I always need more of big brother Stone but he never disappoints when he makes his appearance. Amazing story and well worth the wait
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2024
The Bakery Brothers series is a Flowershop Assassins spin-off series by Louise Collins. The fourth and final (boo) novel is "The Starman Strategy."
["Newton Briggs.
Asexual, old women magnet, and convicted killer.
The youngest Briggs brother has been sent to prison over the ‘accidental’ death of Jeffery Sharpe. He doesn’t feel guilty for his crime. He did it for his brothers. All of them.
But he is scared.
Newt’s strategy to survive Be himself.
He quickly learns that might not be enough.
The top dog, Shaw, wants him dead.
Thomas, a previous patient of Stone’s, wants to spank him.
And Leo…well, Leo just wants to keep him safe.
Unbeknownst to Newt, Stone planned ahead and hired him a bodyguard behind bars.
Sure, it’s the same guy that almost choked Newt to death in the back of the bakery, but after Newt quite publicly throws up on him in front of the whole wing, Leo considers them even.
With Leo at his side, Newt integrates himself into E-wing and accepts his place in prison.
Newt did not expect to make friends who feel more like family.
He didn’t expect to grow strong feelings for his bodyguard/cellmate to the point he wants to kiss him.
And he definitely didn’t expect to be serenaded in the shower by a man tattooed head to toe as a snake.
Being behind bars is not at all what Newt imagined, but one thing is for sure, life won’t be the same when it’s all over…"]
I've been in love with Newt and his love of space and his Bambi look since the first book. I needed his book ASAP, but of course, his book was the last in the series. He's too sweet and innocent and kind. He needs protected at all costs. BUT he also likes pranks and can be a little shit sometimes. And then there's the fact that he murdered a man to protect his family.
Prison wasn't easy. At. All. But eventually, he found himself, he found a home, and he found a family. It was glorious and had so much redemption.
It also (the novel) had so many call backs. Thomas was a previous patient (book one). Leo was also a previous patient (book one), but he was also a suspect in another book (book two). Shaw was mentioned a few times as well throughout the series (or, his connection to the Briggs brothers). Plus all of the brothers partners and previous saves and all around dedication to family.
I love how this novel was a romance, but Newt didn't lose his ace aspect. There are some novels were the MC is ace, but is magically demi when they fall in love. There has been ONE other novel that I read where the MC is ace and is still ace at the end of the novel (where sex was only done maybe once, and because they talked and talked about it first, a lot); but sex never really came up here, only kisses. I love that. It's perfect.
I cried A LOT during this book. Then again, I cried a lot during the end of book 3 because of Newt. This book was just somehow so sweet, that when sad things happened, it was heartbreaking. And yes, even though 90% of it took place in prison, it was still one of the sweetest books in the series.
Trigger Warnings: violence, anxiety attacks, blood, incarceration, and more.
#rockedtodeath #mycowlickcop #godownswinging #thestarmanstrategy #bakerybrothers #bakerybrothersseries #flowershopassassins #flowershopassassinsseries #louisecollins #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Newton Briggs.
Asexual, old women magnet, and convicted killer.
The youngest Briggs brother has been sent to prison over the ‘accidental’ death of Jeffery Sharpe. He doesn’t feel guilty for his crime. He did it for his brothers. All of them.
But he is scared.
Newt’s strategy to survive Be himself.
He quickly learns that might not be enough.
The top dog, Shaw, wants him dead.
Thomas, a previous patient of Stone’s, wants to spank him.
And Leo…well, Leo just wants to keep him safe.
Unbeknownst to Newt, Stone planned ahead and hired him a bodyguard behind bars.
Sure, it’s the same guy that almost choked Newt to death in the back of the bakery, but after Newt quite publicly throws up on him in front of the whole wing, Leo considers them even.
With Leo at his side, Newt integrates himself into E-wing and accepts his place in prison.
Newt did not expect to make friends who feel more like family.
He didn’t expect to grow strong feelings for his bodyguard/cellmate to the point he wants to kiss him.
And he definitely didn’t expect to be serenaded in the shower by a man tattooed head to toe as a snake.
Being behind bars is not at all what Newt imagined, but one thing is for sure, life won’t be the same when it’s all over…"]
I've been in love with Newt and his love of space and his Bambi look since the first book. I needed his book ASAP, but of course, his book was the last in the series. He's too sweet and innocent and kind. He needs protected at all costs. BUT he also likes pranks and can be a little shit sometimes. And then there's the fact that he murdered a man to protect his family.
Prison wasn't easy. At. All. But eventually, he found himself, he found a home, and he found a family. It was glorious and had so much redemption.
It also (the novel) had so many call backs. Thomas was a previous patient (book one). Leo was also a previous patient (book one), but he was also a suspect in another book (book two). Shaw was mentioned a few times as well throughout the series (or, his connection to the Briggs brothers). Plus all of the brothers partners and previous saves and all around dedication to family.
I love how this novel was a romance, but Newt didn't lose his ace aspect. There are some novels were the MC is ace, but is magically demi when they fall in love. There has been ONE other novel that I read where the MC is ace and is still ace at the end of the novel (where sex was only done maybe once, and because they talked and talked about it first, a lot); but sex never really came up here, only kisses. I love that. It's perfect.
I cried A LOT during this book. Then again, I cried a lot during the end of book 3 because of Newt. This book was just somehow so sweet, that when sad things happened, it was heartbreaking. And yes, even though 90% of it took place in prison, it was still one of the sweetest books in the series.
Trigger Warnings: violence, anxiety attacks, blood, incarceration, and more.
#rockedtodeath #mycowlickcop #godownswinging #thestarmanstrategy #bakerybrothers #bakerybrothersseries #flowershopassassins #flowershopassassinsseries #louisecollins #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
May 20, 2025
Ever since I started this series, I had a really soft spot for Newt. I’ve loved all the brothers so far, even if Jude a little less because he was made more independent and less attaching, probably because he was less present too, but Newt was so cute, he was really high on my list. What I’ve loved in this series is that in all the first three books, despite focusing on the two main characters, we always got a lot of the other characters, which is the prime reason I love series in general.
Knowing Newt’d end up in jail at the beginning of his own book, I was expecting to be disappointed because that meant we wouldn’t see enough of Stone, Jude, Mickey and the others, but there was no disappointment at all.
For one we still got to see quite much of Stone and Mickey, and the others as well. Newt was exactly the adorable ball of sweetness I expected, and Leo was also the sweet bear I expected. Their chemistry was incredible, like they were perfectly matched, and not sexually wise only, but spiritually wise. Their connection was so obvious and the progression of their relationship was so well depicted.
I absolutely loved to see again all these characters from the previous books: Leo of course, that was expected, but then Thomas and o’ freaking hell, Scott! Jeez I can’t believe it took me a good third of the book to pick on the fact that he was THE Scott from Jude’s book! Them meeting again and knowing what had happened at Diablo was epic!
This book was really good, funny, emotional.
Some things I am still missing, though…
Waymirth wasn’t a bad guy, and it’s sad that he’s not mentioned at all in this last book, and we don’t know if he ever found out about Jude’s brothers.
Then, it would have been fun to get Jude’s reaction when he discovered Scott in wing E.
What missed as well was the reunion between Newt and his brothers when he walked out of jail, when I was so waiting for this part that could have included Robin, Luke and Aaron.
And as always, the rushed end is frustrating. Even more so because it was the last of the series and I would have loved to read much more about all these guys.
Overall, that was still an excellent series, with rare themes that were broached, and that made it so interesting. Now that probably won’t ever happen but I really wish we’d get a book about Riley and Shaw, that would be awesome.
Knowing Newt’d end up in jail at the beginning of his own book, I was expecting to be disappointed because that meant we wouldn’t see enough of Stone, Jude, Mickey and the others, but there was no disappointment at all.
For one we still got to see quite much of Stone and Mickey, and the others as well. Newt was exactly the adorable ball of sweetness I expected, and Leo was also the sweet bear I expected. Their chemistry was incredible, like they were perfectly matched, and not sexually wise only, but spiritually wise. Their connection was so obvious and the progression of their relationship was so well depicted.
I absolutely loved to see again all these characters from the previous books: Leo of course, that was expected, but then Thomas and o’ freaking hell, Scott! Jeez I can’t believe it took me a good third of the book to pick on the fact that he was THE Scott from Jude’s book! Them meeting again and knowing what had happened at Diablo was epic!
This book was really good, funny, emotional.
Some things I am still missing, though…
Waymirth wasn’t a bad guy, and it’s sad that he’s not mentioned at all in this last book, and we don’t know if he ever found out about Jude’s brothers.
Then, it would have been fun to get Jude’s reaction when he discovered Scott in wing E.
What missed as well was the reunion between Newt and his brothers when he walked out of jail, when I was so waiting for this part that could have included Robin, Luke and Aaron.
And as always, the rushed end is frustrating. Even more so because it was the last of the series and I would have loved to read much more about all these guys.
Overall, that was still an excellent series, with rare themes that were broached, and that made it so interesting. Now that probably won’t ever happen but I really wish we’d get a book about Riley and Shaw, that would be awesome.
June 13, 2024
Favourite Quote:
"This is your tether.”
Newt frowned. “My tether?”
Leo hummed, burying his face in the back of Newt’s neck. His voice was muffled as he spoke. “All astronauts need a tether, right? They don’t just fly out of their spacecraft with nothing attached.”
“I guess.”
“Well, the Starman needs one too.
"This”—he squeezed Newt’s wrist again—“is your tether, and I am the spaceship that takes you home.”
I am a simple girl, I read a Louise Collins book and I hopelessly, absolutely, irrevocably fall in love with it. I might have said this about Louise's books before but there's magical element to Louise's writing. There are certain scenes, certain lines which you read and you just want to take a moment, close your eyes and feel the magic of that scene or the words that weaved that particular scene together. I've read almost all of Louise's books and I can say it with absolute certainty that every book that I've read has its own magic. The Starman and his lion had a story that will win you over from the very first word itself. Newt's kindness and the way it wins over LITERALLY EVERYONE is so rare, so refreshing, so wholesome. I am really not ready to let go of the Bakery Brothers and their weird, wholesome little world so this is a bit bittersweet but this entire series was a wonderful, soul-filling journey that I absolutely adored.
"This is your tether.”
Newt frowned. “My tether?”
Leo hummed, burying his face in the back of Newt’s neck. His voice was muffled as he spoke. “All astronauts need a tether, right? They don’t just fly out of their spacecraft with nothing attached.”
“I guess.”
“Well, the Starman needs one too.
"This”—he squeezed Newt’s wrist again—“is your tether, and I am the spaceship that takes you home.”
I am a simple girl, I read a Louise Collins book and I hopelessly, absolutely, irrevocably fall in love with it. I might have said this about Louise's books before but there's magical element to Louise's writing. There are certain scenes, certain lines which you read and you just want to take a moment, close your eyes and feel the magic of that scene or the words that weaved that particular scene together. I've read almost all of Louise's books and I can say it with absolute certainty that every book that I've read has its own magic. The Starman and his lion had a story that will win you over from the very first word itself. Newt's kindness and the way it wins over LITERALLY EVERYONE is so rare, so refreshing, so wholesome. I am really not ready to let go of the Bakery Brothers and their weird, wholesome little world so this is a bit bittersweet but this entire series was a wonderful, soul-filling journey that I absolutely adored.
June 20, 2024
Oh my heart, this book. 🥰 I don't give a lot of 5 🌟 these days but this one deserves all the praises.
I went through the whole panel of human emotions with that bunch of weirdos.
I started it on a hunch, having not read any of the 3 books in the series before. I probably missed a few things but didn't feel left out or lost at all.
Since the 2 main characters are on the ace spectrum for diverse reasons, no smut for you but don't fret! The intimacy, all the little actions & conversations... I felt those damn 🦋 in my own stomach.
Add the twist and turns & the humour: A masterpiece of creativity. I want to keep those 2 in my pocket & protect them from the ugly world like a fierce mama bear.
Leo the introvert will keep living in my world for a while. 🤗
I went through the whole panel of human emotions with that bunch of weirdos.
I started it on a hunch, having not read any of the 3 books in the series before. I probably missed a few things but didn't feel left out or lost at all.
Since the 2 main characters are on the ace spectrum for diverse reasons, no smut for you but don't fret! The intimacy, all the little actions & conversations... I felt those damn 🦋 in my own stomach.
Add the twist and turns & the humour: A masterpiece of creativity. I want to keep those 2 in my pocket & protect them from the ugly world like a fierce mama bear.
Leo the introvert will keep living in my world for a while. 🤗
May 26, 2025
Siiggghhh a wonderful, sweet story. I was tearing up for chapters at a time! This is the first time I’ve read a romance novel starring an ace person where they stayed ace and their orientation was respected. I would have thought I’d miss the hinky smut of the others books but I didn’t at all, the story was perfect. And a perfect end to the series, I’m so sad it’s over! This whole series plus ‘flower shop assassins’ was so fun, alternately sweet and depraved, with just the right amount of violence to make me hold my breath but not be disgusted. I never reread books but I may be rereading these, just to be in this wonderful world again.
June 18, 2024
Newt and Leo were everything! I have adored Newt since the beginning, and I was so happy that Leo, who I instantly wanted to know more about from his first appearance, was his love interest. These two had the sweetest story set in one of the harshest places, but it worked so well. The side characters were wonderful, and I was pleasantly surprised with Thomas, who was another intriguing character from earlier in the series. I'm sad the series is over, but I thoroughly enjoyed the journey these four brothers made to the happily ever afters they all deserved!
June 22, 2024
Newt steals all the hearts
Newt gas been intriguing since the first Bakery Brothers book, and I couldn't wait to finally read his story.
Not only does he find his perfect match, but he somehow charms an entire prison wing just like the old ladies at Stud Muffins all while breaking Mickey's prison rules one by one.
Louise has a talent for creating interesting and lovable side characters too. Here's hoping we get to read about them in the future.
I highly recommend the Bakery Brothers series and her others as well!
Newt gas been intriguing since the first Bakery Brothers book, and I couldn't wait to finally read his story.
Not only does he find his perfect match, but he somehow charms an entire prison wing just like the old ladies at Stud Muffins all while breaking Mickey's prison rules one by one.
Louise has a talent for creating interesting and lovable side characters too. Here's hoping we get to read about them in the future.
I highly recommend the Bakery Brothers series and her others as well!
June 3, 2024
I absolutely loved it 🥰
I knew it when I saw their (not-so) meet-cute. I knew they were meant for each other.
I laughed, I almost cried, I was on the edge of my seat a couple of times. I loved every minute of it.
Highly recommend and I’m telling you, you’ll really want to read these in order, and it’s best to start with book one (Bye, Baby) of the first series (The Flowershop Assassins) that this series is a spin-off of.
I knew it when I saw their (not-so) meet-cute. I knew they were meant for each other.
I laughed, I almost cried, I was on the edge of my seat a couple of times. I loved every minute of it.
Highly recommend and I’m telling you, you’ll really want to read these in order, and it’s best to start with book one (Bye, Baby) of the first series (The Flowershop Assassins) that this series is a spin-off of.
July 26, 2024
No puede serrrrrrrrrr 💖
La historia más linda y dulce de la historia 😭🩷
Amé a Leo y también a Newt, los seres más tiernos de la galaxia ✨
En serio, me motaba de ternura la forma tan inocente de Newt y como Leo lo cuidaba todo el tiempo, no, no, no.
Me gustó como tocaron el tema de la sexualidad y como mostraron que no todo es el sexo y aún así haber intimidad en la pareja.
Definitivamente mi libro favorito de toda la saga 😍🩷✨😭🥺🥰
La historia más linda y dulce de la historia 😭🩷
Amé a Leo y también a Newt, los seres más tiernos de la galaxia ✨
En serio, me motaba de ternura la forma tan inocente de Newt y como Leo lo cuidaba todo el tiempo, no, no, no.
Me gustó como tocaron el tema de la sexualidad y como mostraron que no todo es el sexo y aún así haber intimidad en la pareja.
Definitivamente mi libro favorito de toda la saga 😍🩷✨😭🥺🥰
June 15, 2024
Absolutely incredible prison romance with two of the most lovable, fascinating, oddly endearing MCs ever! Touching, amusing, romantic and very unexpected. Great representation of an asexual MC as well.
Newt is a very special young man, something that’s been clear from the first book in the series, so I’ve been intensely curious about his story and it was just amazing! I had kind of hoped he would end up with Leo, from Leo’s first appearance in the books, and I’m thrilled with how their relationship developed throughout.
Leo is a lovely character, with unique troubles of his own, and watching him fall for Newt was so much fun. They are so sweet together! Utterly heartwarming! I also really liked Leo’s interactions and growing closeness with Newt’s brothers.
Apart from Newt’s brothers and Leo, we also get familiar faces among the inmates during Newt’s stint in prison—what a great surprise!—as well as some new ones, and I loved them all. They bring so much fun, angst and heart to Newt’s story and world. I would jump at the chance to read some spin-off romance stories about them too.
As always with the books in this series, I thoroughly enjoyed the quirky, absurd humor and the deep love between the bakery Brothers. The connection and support between the brothers is just so pivotal to the entire series and wonderfully moving.
Recommend, recommend, recommend!
Newt is a very special young man, something that’s been clear from the first book in the series, so I’ve been intensely curious about his story and it was just amazing! I had kind of hoped he would end up with Leo, from Leo’s first appearance in the books, and I’m thrilled with how their relationship developed throughout.
Leo is a lovely character, with unique troubles of his own, and watching him fall for Newt was so much fun. They are so sweet together! Utterly heartwarming! I also really liked Leo’s interactions and growing closeness with Newt’s brothers.
Apart from Newt’s brothers and Leo, we also get familiar faces among the inmates during Newt’s stint in prison—what a great surprise!—as well as some new ones, and I loved them all. They bring so much fun, angst and heart to Newt’s story and world. I would jump at the chance to read some spin-off romance stories about them too.
As always with the books in this series, I thoroughly enjoyed the quirky, absurd humor and the deep love between the bakery Brothers. The connection and support between the brothers is just so pivotal to the entire series and wonderfully moving.
Recommend, recommend, recommend!
June 17, 2024
This was ridiculous fun in the best way. I’ll continue reading all the books in this assassins/bakers/prison friends universe for as long as Collins writes them.
Also some of the secondary characters need a book asap.
Absolutely delightful read. With also some great ace representation.
Also some of the secondary characters need a book asap.
Absolutely delightful read. With also some great ace representation.
January 11, 2025
I didn't expect this to be so heartwarming. Newt was such a sweetheart - like, must protect fr. I also felt very heavily for Leo. I really liked how well the emotions of confusion were handled, and the trope was just...warm. Cute. Nice. Sweet. Lovely.
Want to read
June 5, 2024CANT F# WAIT
June 16, 2024
4.5*
Todos los hermanos obtuvieron su HEA. ¿Y ahora qué hago con mi vida? Aún no estoy lista para decirles adiós. :(
Todos los hermanos obtuvieron su HEA. ¿Y ahora qué hago con mi vida? Aún no estoy lista para decirles adiós. :(
June 17, 2024
I love them forever 😭❤️
June 17, 2024
😍😍😍😍
I absolutely love this series and I'm so sad its over!!!! I really want stories about Shaw and the others!!
I absolutely love this series and I'm so sad its over!!!! I really want stories about Shaw and the others!!
Read
June 18, 2024Such a great series!
June 24, 2024
Best of the series, even cried a little.
June 28, 2024
Queria saber mais sobre o Ford, ele salvou o newt e seria perfeito ter um livro dele.
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