Rook Barron, the youngest son of the Barron family, is led by his temper and need for respect before anything else.
When it’s his turn to accept a marriage planned by his eldest brother, Rook is skeptical about fulfilling his duties despite tradition.
When his temper causes mayhem in the life of a woman who has everything riding on a marriage, he quickly sees it as an opportunity to solve several issues at once, but their alliance may become the biggest issue of all as they navigate their newfound intertwined lives and their family’s expectations.
“You deserve better. You deserve support and love and someone that has your back in this crazy 🍑 world and don’t add 💩 to your plate.” “I thought that was what I had you for”
Whew these two came a looooooong way 😅!
As one half of the youngest Barron clan, Rook’s life was pretty much planned out for him. Arranged marriages were common business transactions amongst the circle his family dwelled in and pretty much mandatory. As he and his twin brother Bishop quickly approach 25, they’re next up on the chopping block. Now that his older brother King has taken over the family business, he decides to switch things up when it comes to selecting a mate but who could have known that a visit to another wedding within their circle would speed up that timeline. Hot headed Rook did not tolerate disrespect and his swift actions had him in a haphazardly arranged marriage that he definitely hadn’t planned for.
For Winnie she was so close to her inheritance she could taste it. She had a master plan and everything was falling into place. That was until Rook Barron showed up to her wedding and flipped her world upside down. Now with a new arrangement in place, she’s not sure if the terms are worth being married to an unhinged wild card.
Rook was a hot mess!! Do you hear me?!? 🗣️A HOT MESS!! One minute he had my blood boiling and the next he had me swooning and rooting for him. He did not play about anything his wife included and even though they started out on the wrong foot and took a good while to get on the same page their journey was an entertaining, enjoyable one.
♟️ It was this man really putting her on punishment for me 🔐 ♟️It was Rook and Bishop’s relationship for me. That twin thing is something 👥 ♟️It was the way Rook was handing out 🍑whoopins like Halloween candy for me 🤭 ♟️It was the cabin trip for me because that was the true turning point in their relationship ♟️It was the way Winnie dragged and tagged a few mfs for me because we love when characters get the beat down they so rightfully deserve. ♟️It was definitely the brotherhood for me because just like their names, they stayed playing chess not checkers.
The book could have benefited from further boundary pushing and a more compelling reason as to why they entered into the marriage. For me that was the weakest part of the story. Rook honestly could have walked away. His hand didn’t really seemed forced enough in my opinion so the arrangement didn’t real. I also would have loved to see the sister of Winnie’s original husband be tied back into the story some how. Not sure how she would have stood up against such powerful families but even the attempt to get her lick back would have added more excitement to the storyline. She could’ve teamed up with the opps (you know who you were) 😒
Overall I really enjoyed this read. I was absolutely obsessed with Bishop and Asante and I REALLY hope they get a book! We DESERVE a book from them!
Arranged marriages are as old as time in the Barron family tree and everyone is expected to abide by the rules and get married by their 25th birthday. Up next on the marriage block are Rook and his twin brother. Although he knew his time would come, Rook is not pleased with having to say “I do” to a complete stranger. Now that his oldest brother has taken over the family business, the rules have changed in how a mate will be chosen for the twins. But, before he can even partake in the new decision making process, Rook’s temper has him walking down the aisle a lot sooner than he anticipated.
Winnie said, “I’m just here so I don’t get fined” and, by fined, she means getting married so she can collect her inheritance. Her family is beholden to the same arranged marriage rules as the Barrons but, with a twist. My good sis was on the cusp of getting her bag then, here comes Rook and his unhinged behavior effin’ it up for everybody. In order to make it right for Winnie and his twin, Rook volunteers as tribute and a new arrangement is proposed. Now that she can return to her regularly scheduled program but, with a different groom, Winnie can breathe a sigh of relief knowing she’s still on track to get her inheritance. But, the next two years are definitely going to test her patience being married to a hot head wildcard with no filter.
Rook was an interesting character. One minute you couldn’t stand him and, the next minute, he’d have you swooin’. He could be disrespectful and romantic at the same time. Rook definitely had Winnie confused and kept her head on a swivel the entire book. But, when he fell in love with my girl he fell hard and didn’t mind givin’ anybody that work over Winnie. While these two didn’t have a traditional courtship, the end result was still a traditional HEA.
My wife, my wife my wife...Even before Rook and Winnie had any type of connection he didn't hesitate to acknowledge who she was and to demand respect for HIS wife. He absolutely did not play about HIS wife or his family, especially his twin.
I loved Rook's unhinged mannish azz. He was the type to defend himself and his loved ones to the extreme, no questions asked. Due to that, trouble seemed to always find him. Which is how he found himself in an arranged marriage before his scheduled timeframe to a woman the family didn't know anything about. Despite the drama of their union Rook and Winnie find themselves compatible... What was supposed to be a business transaction, slowly became....more. I always love when the mmc falls first, and Rook was falling early on and rebelled against his feelings by making dumb azz decisions. Listen when he challenged King about his wife, I knew he was head over heels for her. Winnie, I felt like her character could have used a little more development. We got hints of who she was, but it felt random and lacked cohesion. That said it was clear that she was doing her best to protect her heart, but she could not resist her fine azz charismatic husband. When ish hit the fan you could tell she wanted to run, but her family dynamic was trash and left her limited options. I loved how she connected with Rook's family, the Barrons. The women especially welcomed her with open arms and she got to experience real familial love that she had been lacking. Winnie also had the sweetest connection with Bishop, Rook's twin brother. Early on he knew his twin had more feelings for Winnie than he was ready to admit, because of that he treated her like a sister. When Rook and Winnie started really communicating and truly acknowledging their feelings beyond their sexual chemistry I knew they were going to figure it out.
I enjoyed this story, but there were a few things that could have made it great. Consistent timelines-the situation with Sydney happened during their first week of marriage, but then later on it was stated that it was "before" they were married. They knew each other before the marriage but he was also entertaining her foolishness early on. Additionally, it felt unrealistic to just trust Sydney's word. Like be fking fr I knew out the gate the heaux was lying. For them to be such a powerful family I didn't understand why that wasn't properly followed up on because that ish would have been found out at the first dr appointment... The whole situation with Flora and Winnie while it was explained it just lacked....Their whole dynamic was weird. I would have enjoyed a nice epilogue where Rook and Winnie had an actual wedding or attended Bishop's wedding, I felt like closure was needed. Then King's random admission I wish would have been addressed as well.
Despite me nit picking, I would recommend this book. These arranged marriages are growing on me.
I don't always get the streetlit stories. However, this one had a little bits to it, and I was able to get deep into the story. No spoilers, this one was quite an interesting read.
Rook: "I want you to be wherever you're happy, Winnie. I want you to be happy here though."
As is my custom, I read this book 1st because I have no respect for order.
Tropes: enemies to lovers, arranged marriage
Rook kills Winnie's soon to be husband (also an arranged marriage) at their wedding. To keep the peace, get Winnie her inheritance and also ensure his twin brother was able to marry whom he loved, Rook agrees to marry Winnie.
What starts as two people who are only tolerating each other, leads to two people being physically attracted to each other and eventually two people who are friends and lovers.
The way Rook didn't play about Winnie. Very much "my wife my wife my wife!"
Rook was the “family screw up,” and he sure did screw things up a lot. From fighting at the drop of a dime to sleeping with outside women to ultimately caving to his feelings, Rook is definitely not my favorite brother, but I am happy he finally got it right. His story is also an unconventional one like book 1. I can’t wait to read about Asante & Bishop!
Rook is someone that is easy to hate BUT even easier to love. He’s recklessness and an asshole that makes his number one priority to take care of the people he loved. The way that he didn’t play about Bishop warmed my heart. To see him falling for Winnie and wanting just time be close to her melted my heart.
I loved this story and getting the little bit about Bishop and Knight was a nice bonus. Definitely give this a read!
I don't care what anybody says rook is my favorite brother. Everything about his unhanged a** with perfection... The way he stood tintos down for his family even if he wasn't completely in the right I loved it we all love an honest man.... Winnie wasn't no b**** either she literally was a A strong get s*** done type of woman. Though their marriage started off real rocky and with hillaraki through it they finally sinked up and understanding that they both had something to offer each other and that developed into a love like no other. Now Winnie's sister could catch hands that b**** was flaw and she definitely deserved to die, Her husband was also no good. I loved Bishop and asante's storyline... I really can't wait to see what that 1 hasn't, Like because Bishop is bisexual so I know he's gonna be with him but like is there gonna be like a third somewhere possibly. I was so happy to see Kasmi and Nova make a reappearance and they Had babies the sister wife life is real for them and I love it. All in all I knew this book was going to be one of my favorites.
“Rook: Barron Family Saga” by ML Bash plunges us deep into the heart of a complex family drama where loyalty and tempers run as hot as the story’s tension. Rook Barron, the youngest son, is known more for his quick temper than his patience. When a marriage arranged by his elder brother draws him reluctantly into an alliance, it’s the fiery interactions with a determined woman that truly ignite the pages. ML Bash crafts a narrative with layers as intricate as the family at its core, weaving a story that’s as much about finding one’s place as it is about discovering love in unexpected corners. Rook’s journey from reluctant participant to fervent partner is a tumultuous yet enthralling ride, marked by moments that both challenge and charm. The Barron brothers’ dynamic adds a rich backdrop, making this book a captivating blend of family, power, and passion. A solid four-star read that will leave you eager for more from the Barrons. Get ready to be pulled into the Barron’s world; it’s a ride you won’t want to miss!
I enjoyed this soo much more than I thought I would.
We met Rook in book one. He along with this twin Bishop are the youngest of the Barron brothers, in addition to being stubborn, impulsive, violent, and having a smart mouth, the man just straight up likes to act a fool.
Going in I was curious what type of woman would be his match. However, thanks to Rook's impulsive and violent nature he finds himself with a wife chosen by fate.
Winnie marries Rook in a dress with her dead finance's blood. She needs this marriage to work so that she can come into what's rightfully hers. With that said, she did not sign up to be bullied or disrespected.
These two had a lot of back and forth and I loved it. Rook talks a lot about respect, but he consistently failed to give it and Winnie checked him every time.
Add in Sydney, his long-term side chick who thinks she can disrespect and break them up and you have a damn Tela Novela. It's entertaining, action packed, and there's betrayal that had me shook.
Also, we get updates on the rest of the brothers which I appreciated.
This is booked two in the Barron Family Saga focusing on the youngest brother, Rook and Winnie, his bride. Without giving away any spoilers, they get married on her wedding day and he was not her intended groom. Wrap your head around that! This is an arranged marriage, enemies to lovers story with a dash of found family. Rook is a wildcard with it quick temper, but he is also a touch her and you die type of man as well. Winnie stands on her own business too, and is no pushover, which is good for him. After a rocky start, Winnie and Rook manage to build a solid friendship that turns into love, which neither signed up for but is ultimately what they both wanted, needed and deserved. I couldn’t wait for this book and I wasn’t disappointed, but I was also surprised at how sweet it was. I loved how their story unfolded and you will too. Enjoy!
You can’t help but love Rook!!!..He was a comedic hot head, but he stood on business about his family!!!…Sydney played stupid games and she definitely got the prize!!!… Winnie definitely fit the description of the woman Rook needed in his life and she kept him on his toes!!!… Flora and Sean both irritated my spirit with their shady ashes!!!… Flora had her own agenda and was going to cheat her sister because her and her husband was having money issues!!!… I can’t wait to see what will become of Rook and Winnie!!!…I hope they get Baby Rook too!!!… Rook was loyal to his twin and I love e how he made sure his brother was going to get the happiness he deserved!!!… Rook said he would abandon the family for Bishop!!!…
ML Bash is hands down one of my favorite authors..who stories never disappoint me. I will admit in the beginning I was rolling my eyes constantly at Rook not because I didn’t like him but he was working my last nerve just being himself 😂 But the way he stood 10 toes down every single time for his family had my heart pounding. Every scene that she showed us when he was like that I loved it! Rook isn’t my favorite brother but he is for sure trying to make his way up the list. And Bishop Bishop was amazing
The Barron's are a close-knit family. This family believes in arranged marriages, and now it is the twins' turn, which is Rook and Bishop. Rook, and his hot temper ends up with a surprise wife. Winnie is her name, and she is a bit of a firecracker. To see these two come together, it's hilarious to me. I love that Bishop has found his love. I would recommend this book. This series is wonderful. The author has done a fabulous job with this family. As always, it's an absolute pleasure reading your books 🥰.
The brotherhood is soo endearing!! Rook is a solid & loving human being & a wonderful brother. ML Bash is easily is my top 5 favorite authors!!! Very well written, funny & definitely a page turner. I would love to read more about King & Bishop. The Barron family is amazing. ML Bash is not afraid to step outside of social norms & stereotypes. Within the drama & chaos, there is a message to her audience. You don’t just read about untraditional dynamics, you also learn while you read. I’m a huge fan.
Listen, Rook and Winnie was everything. That sister though; smh. Rook did the right thing. I’m sad about King and Xavia though; gotta give them twins for their troubles next book lol. I’m not even going to hold you, I was nervous about Asante, but he check out and I’m happy about being wrong…..this once lol. This was a great read all in all.
Rook is unhinged for sure. He is quick to lay down. He doesn't play about his family, especially his twin brother.
I knew he and Winnie would fall in love. Their personalities matched, and Winne didn't take any shorts. She was just as vocal as he was. Her sister Flora and Sydney were foul.
Really great story. Can't wait to read about Bishop and Asante.
My man! My man! Mine! I love an unhinged, bout his business that he's stands firmly on, and rides hard for his. I've loved him from the first time we met him in Knight, and his story only made me love him more. Winnie was perfect for him, and even though it took a minute, they finally rode hard for each other. Absolutely loved this joint. Can't wait for the next brother!
I would have given this 5 stars but Rook just got on my damn nerves so bad. We was doing Winnie so bad and Winnie also got on my nerves. She should have given Rook the same energy he was giving her. I was waiting for him to see her out with another man and for him to feel what she felt this whole book.
Oohhhh I couldn’t stand him in the beginning but the love he has for his family makes you love him. That temper lol Rook don’t do no disrespect and done rubbed off on Winnie. I loved that lil jewel he dropped on Flora in the end too…
I really lovedddd the way that Rook loved his twin. And how he was willing to fight all his battles. I also loved that he was always himself & that him and Winnie made it work
I liked this book…it was well written however Rook was an azz. This story was about an arrogant azzhole who met his match. Flora was garbage!! Rooks support for his brother was unmatched. Good read. No spoilers
Rook was definitely the wild one but the love he had for his twin was touching. This family has put their own spin arranged marriages! They are not the typical pairings which is refreshing!
Loved it, loved it, loved it! Winnie was such a good soul. Too bad she didn’t know there was some dark sibling rivalry going on! Love how hard the twins go for one another! Love this family!
ROOK! He surprised me in a good way. I love how he loves his family and his twin specifically. I also love how his marriage came to be. I can’t wait to read Bishop’s story .. love the Barron’s down! Read it!
Unhinged, ruthless, rude, disrespectful, loving, leader, loyal and not about to play about the family. Took and Winnie was a real match made in craziness and I was here for all of it.