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From New York Times Bestselling author, Sadie Kincaid comes a contemporary friends to lovers romance.
Maddox James is the entire package. Soulful, deep, hotter than the fiery pits of hell. He’s also my best friend, and did I mention, he’s celibate?
Two years ago, we were strangers sharing sunsets, secrets, and a connection neither of us could ignore. For one perfect night, I thought something extraordinary was beginning—until he rejected me without explanation, leaving me feeling humiliated.
Now, fate has thrown us together again in the worst possible way: he’s my boss’s younger brother. Still maddeningly handsome, endlessly compassionate, and impossible to ignore. The worst part? He’s impossible to dislike too. Beneath the sexy confident smiles and effortless charm is someone quieter than I remember, someone carrying shadows I don’t understand. And when he finally tells me the truth, that rejecting me had nothing to do with him not wanting me—it changes everything.
Somewhere between late-night conversations, daily laughter and sharing our dreams, he becomes my best friend. Which would be fine if I wasn’t falling for him all over again.
Because friendship starts to feel dangerously small when every touch lingers too long, every look feels like a confession, and the man who once swore off intimacy begins breaking every rule he made for himself.
But love doesn’t erase the past. And when the darkest parts of our lives come back to claim us, we’ll have to decide if what we have is strong enough to survive the things that almost destroyed us both.
MADE is a slow-burn, emotional romance about healing, forgiveness, and discovering that love is worth risking everything for.
Contemporary romance
Friends to Lovers
Second Chance
Curvy FMC
Golden retriever energy, with a dark dirty side
He falls first (and hard)
Standalone with HEA
Maddox James is the entire package. Soulful, deep, hotter than the fiery pits of hell. He’s also my best friend, and did I mention, he’s celibate?
Two years ago, we were strangers sharing sunsets, secrets, and a connection neither of us could ignore. For one perfect night, I thought something extraordinary was beginning—until he rejected me without explanation, leaving me feeling humiliated.
Now, fate has thrown us together again in the worst possible way: he’s my boss’s younger brother. Still maddeningly handsome, endlessly compassionate, and impossible to ignore. The worst part? He’s impossible to dislike too. Beneath the sexy confident smiles and effortless charm is someone quieter than I remember, someone carrying shadows I don’t understand. And when he finally tells me the truth, that rejecting me had nothing to do with him not wanting me—it changes everything.
Somewhere between late-night conversations, daily laughter and sharing our dreams, he becomes my best friend. Which would be fine if I wasn’t falling for him all over again.
Because friendship starts to feel dangerously small when every touch lingers too long, every look feels like a confession, and the man who once swore off intimacy begins breaking every rule he made for himself.
But love doesn’t erase the past. And when the darkest parts of our lives come back to claim us, we’ll have to decide if what we have is strong enough to survive the things that almost destroyed us both.
MADE is a slow-burn, emotional romance about healing, forgiveness, and discovering that love is worth risking everything for.
Contemporary romance
Friends to Lovers
Second Chance
Curvy FMC
Golden retriever energy, with a dark dirty side
He falls first (and hard)
Standalone with HEA
430 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 28, 2026
About the author
Sadie Kincaid
57 books17.3k followersI'm a bestselling author of dark mafia, billionaire, and paranormal romance. I love to read and write about hot, filthy talking alphas that would burn the world down for the women they love.
I love chatting to readers about my books, or books in general, so please get in touch! You can follow me on Facebook and instagram as well as on here as Sadie Kincaid Author.
Amazon: author.to/SadieKincaid
Facebook Reader group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/16et...
I love chatting to readers about my books, or books in general, so please get in touch! You can follow me on Facebook and instagram as well as on here as Sadie Kincaid Author.
Amazon: author.to/SadieKincaid
Facebook Reader group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/16et...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 223 reviews
May 29, 2026
2.5 ⭐️
The constant self deprecation from the female lead was exhausting. Like more than halfway through the book. It got old really quickly. She is plus size but is constantly insecure and talking about her body. Don’t get me wrong.. most women at some point in life have moments of poor self esteem. But this was a lot.
This book felt like one giant therapy session with small amounts of plot. I think it could have been edited down a lot. But that’s just my opinion.
The positive was the main characters had good communication, and the subjects of addiction, and SA were handled well.
The constant self deprecation from the female lead was exhausting. Like more than halfway through the book. It got old really quickly. She is plus size but is constantly insecure and talking about her body. Don’t get me wrong.. most women at some point in life have moments of poor self esteem. But this was a lot.
This book felt like one giant therapy session with small amounts of plot. I think it could have been edited down a lot. But that’s just my opinion.
The positive was the main characters had good communication, and the subjects of addiction, and SA were handled well.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love Maddox James!! I loved the little snippets we got of him in Played and was so excited he was getting his own book, because I love him even more!!
Made was an amazing read. Getting to know more about Maddox and everything he experienced and overcame. Seeing him be the obsessive, possessive, protective MMC.....oooo boy!!
Ellie was such a great character. I loved how strong and independent she was. Like Maddox she had experienced a lot of trauma and survived to be an even better version of herself.
Sadie does such a fantastic job writing her books. There's depth, emotion, and lots of spice. Made is definitely a must read.
Made was an amazing read. Getting to know more about Maddox and everything he experienced and overcame. Seeing him be the obsessive, possessive, protective MMC.....oooo boy!!
Ellie was such a great character. I loved how strong and independent she was. Like Maddox she had experienced a lot of trauma and survived to be an even better version of herself.
Sadie does such a fantastic job writing her books. There's depth, emotion, and lots of spice. Made is definitely a must read.
Want to Read
May 30, 2026Coming out May 28
May 29, 2026
Really enjoyed the other four books and rated them highly. They pulled you into the story and made you feel for the characters.
This was disappointing however, to the point that I DNF at 56%. The internal monologues were endless for both FMC & MMC. There was little dialogue between the main characters and we didn’t really see them build a relationship. It was more like insta lust (again) and then suddenly it’s 6 months later and they’re besties ready to go to the next level.
The story just fell so flat. A sad ending for an otherwise great series.
This was disappointing however, to the point that I DNF at 56%. The internal monologues were endless for both FMC & MMC. There was little dialogue between the main characters and we didn’t really see them build a relationship. It was more like insta lust (again) and then suddenly it’s 6 months later and they’re besties ready to go to the next level.
The story just fell so flat. A sad ending for an otherwise great series.
May 21, 2026
Oh my god!! Maddox and Ellie’s story is hands down my favorite. They originally met in Morocco but after spending an evening talking and having the best time, Maddox turns Ellie down. She was devastated but never forgot him. They run into each other again while she was at work. They become close again. They both had their demons that they were dealing with but there was a lot of swoon, laughter, banter and love. We also got a bit of suspense and a TON of spice. I could not get enough of this book. I hate that the series is over but what a way to end the series.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
May 30, 2026
flip flopping on the FMC’s view of her weight
It felt like she was trying to write a plus size character but couldn’t commit to the actual size at times. Ellie is a size 12… but everything prior and continually through the book has you thinking she’s a size 16+ (even the fan art alluded to it and I was pumped). But there are too many moments of self depreciation that seem very shallow.
I don’t know I like the plot for the most part but there were too many things that annoyed me. When her and Maddox attend their first fundraiser as a couple for one & then the engagement scene felt forced and stupid (spoiler, he didn’t even get her a ring… man has a trust fund and is connected to a billionaire family). Just annoying AF. It was nice seeing other people from the Kincaid universe around, it was the highlight for sure. I usually love Sadie’s stories this one just had too many moments that rubbed me the wrong way.
It felt like she was trying to write a plus size character but couldn’t commit to the actual size at times. Ellie is a size 12… but everything prior and continually through the book has you thinking she’s a size 16+ (even the fan art alluded to it and I was pumped). But there are too many moments of self depreciation that seem very shallow.
I don’t know I like the plot for the most part but there were too many things that annoyed me. When her and Maddox attend their first fundraiser as a couple for one & then the engagement scene felt forced and stupid (spoiler, he didn’t even get her a ring… man has a trust fund and is connected to a billionaire family). Just annoying AF. It was nice seeing other people from the Kincaid universe around, it was the highlight for sure. I usually love Sadie’s stories this one just had too many moments that rubbed me the wrong way.
May 29, 2026
missed her old writing
Review of advance copy
This was the best conclusion to the Manhattan series. Maddox and Ellie's story was perfect and everything their characters deserved.
I fell in love with Maddox earlier in the series but just fell so much more for him here in Made. That man is the greenest flag. The way he fights for himself and then the obsessive/possessive side of him with Ellie. I was overheating and swooning the whole damn book.
We also get some fantastic banter, some laugh out loud moments and spice that will take you out (in the best way).
I fell in love with Maddox earlier in the series but just fell so much more for him here in Made. That man is the greenest flag. The way he fights for himself and then the obsessive/possessive side of him with Ellie. I was overheating and swooning the whole damn book.
We also get some fantastic banter, some laugh out loud moments and spice that will take you out (in the best way).
Did Not Finish
May 30, 2026✅RomCom
✅reformed playboy vs no chance with men
✅dead ex lover
✅second chance
✅curvy heroine
I was sold on the whole “he breaks his celibacy for her" Imagine my surprise when the celibacy turned out to be less a sacred vow and more a brief intermission after he'd apparently worked his way through half the female population. Or, as he so charmingly describes it “everything with a pulse."
Swoon. 🙄
Then we get the obligatory “dead ex trope” Because apparently no romance hero is complete without a ghostly former love hovering over every meaningful moment.
At its core, this is yet another “reformed manwhore meets woman who's been repeatedly disappointed by men” story. Revolutionary stuff.
Our MMC starts out as Mad Dog and turns into yogi yoga Maddox but still spends a good portion of the book reminding us that, yes, he still notices women. He still wants women. He still appreciates women. Thank goodness the book mentions it every five minutes, I was worried I might forget he used to be a player.
And that's really my biggest issue. I understand the author was aiming for redemption. I get it. People can change. The problem is that every time I started buying into the romance, the book would hit me over the head with Yasmin, his extensive romantic résumé, or another reminder that women in general remain one of his favorite hobbies.
As a result, I never fully bought their chemistry. For me, it was just too cheesy. Too sweet. I just need more darkness.
This one felt like it was trying to feed me cupcakes while I was craving whiskey and bad decisions. I gave up.
✅reformed playboy vs no chance with men
✅dead ex lover
✅second chance
✅curvy heroine
I was sold on the whole “he breaks his celibacy for her" Imagine my surprise when the celibacy turned out to be less a sacred vow and more a brief intermission after he'd apparently worked his way through half the female population. Or, as he so charmingly describes it “everything with a pulse."
Swoon. 🙄
Then we get the obligatory “dead ex trope” Because apparently no romance hero is complete without a ghostly former love hovering over every meaningful moment.
At its core, this is yet another “reformed manwhore meets woman who's been repeatedly disappointed by men” story. Revolutionary stuff.
Our MMC starts out as Mad Dog and turns into yogi yoga Maddox but still spends a good portion of the book reminding us that, yes, he still notices women. He still wants women. He still appreciates women. Thank goodness the book mentions it every five minutes, I was worried I might forget he used to be a player.
And that's really my biggest issue. I understand the author was aiming for redemption. I get it. People can change. The problem is that every time I started buying into the romance, the book would hit me over the head with Yasmin, his extensive romantic résumé, or another reminder that women in general remain one of his favorite hobbies.
As a result, I never fully bought their chemistry. For me, it was just too cheesy. Too sweet. I just need more darkness.
This one felt like it was trying to feed me cupcakes while I was craving whiskey and bad decisions. I gave up.
May 20, 2026
If I could give this ♾️ stars I would. These James boys have been taking us THROUGH IT for a very long time and I’m so glad Maddox was the one to end the series.
What a man. I mean seriously. What a story! What a freaking FMC! I won’t say her name because it’ll spoil things and you’ll find out things you may not want to find out. She is my favorite woman of this series outside of Amber.
I loved their friendship. It was so pure ( and decidedly NOT pure 😏). I think we’ve all experienced a friendship we wish was more. The way they’ve worked on themselves and their demons but how they still bring healing and comfort to each other is just chefs kiss good. Maddox is able to anticipate her needs and voice them so well that WE ALL felt seen in that moment. He is absolutely the most communicative of the brothers. Golden retriever to his core.
We already know this family’s story. The loss of a wife. A mom. It shaped each of them I different and heartbreaking ways but Maddox’ story was especially deep and painful. HER story was especially deep and painful. They were perfect for each other in their struggles and demons.
This was a bit of a slow burn and you’ll be yearning right along with them but when they started the burn??? 🔥 🔥🔥🔥 3.5🌶️
Elijah and Maddox are definitely my favs of these brothers but they all hold a special place. This SERIES holds a special place in my heart.
What a man. I mean seriously. What a story! What a freaking FMC! I won’t say her name because it’ll spoil things and you’ll find out things you may not want to find out. She is my favorite woman of this series outside of Amber.
I loved their friendship. It was so pure ( and decidedly NOT pure 😏). I think we’ve all experienced a friendship we wish was more. The way they’ve worked on themselves and their demons but how they still bring healing and comfort to each other is just chefs kiss good. Maddox is able to anticipate her needs and voice them so well that WE ALL felt seen in that moment. He is absolutely the most communicative of the brothers. Golden retriever to his core.
We already know this family’s story. The loss of a wife. A mom. It shaped each of them I different and heartbreaking ways but Maddox’ story was especially deep and painful. HER story was especially deep and painful. They were perfect for each other in their struggles and demons.
This was a bit of a slow burn and you’ll be yearning right along with them but when they started the burn??? 🔥 🔥🔥🔥 3.5🌶️
Elijah and Maddox are definitely my favs of these brothers but they all hold a special place. This SERIES holds a special place in my heart.
May 30, 2026
1.5 Stars.
Sadly, this was the worst in this series. I am shocked by all the 5 stars.
It could have been edited way down This book had so many mini stories that made it to one big random story.
Half the book was Ellie being insecure even though Maddox assured her and would always apologe to her. The dude never did anything for him to apologize for.
Usually I am a huge Sadie fan but this book was just bad.
Sadly, this was the worst in this series. I am shocked by all the 5 stars.
It could have been edited way down This book had so many mini stories that made it to one big random story.
Half the book was Ellie being insecure even though Maddox assured her and would always apologe to her. The dude never did anything for him to apologize for.
Usually I am a huge Sadie fan but this book was just bad.
May 30, 2026
Honestly not my favorite
May 30, 2026
She was really annoying me
May 30, 2026
I feel like I’ve been on a journey with Sadie’s books forever. And, Manhattan Ruthless is my fave series by the author. Of course, this is the final book in this series so it’s bittersweet regardless.
Sadie is a brilliant and talented writer. There’s so much to LOVE in this MR storyline for all the books combined.
Sadly it’s last book in the James’ series and the one I probably liked the least; despite it being the one I wanted the most.
Maddox James has long stood out as a character in his brothers’ novels and worked into a special place for me. I love that Ellie is his counterpart. They have the potential to be an absolute wonderful couple. The basic ends and outs of their story is good.
I know the author pushed back the release date originally and did some changes. I have no idea what those entailed but the final product is a little off from what I expected.
This really should have blown me TF away. SHOULD HAVE.
There were a few omissions that stood out in this last book- but that would be a spoiler no matter how I tried to mention it. So I’ll leave it as is. There are so many characters that pop up in this one but I think a few were overlooked. (And or underused) Nathan and King stood out though.
• Nice addition: There’s an incredibly great nod at the end that was perfect.
• The odd:
Maddox who is on the right trajectory with every thing, spouter of wisdom- world traveler, progressive human and in touch with multi cultures —-
would never say :
"Plus," he goes on, "you are not 'a fat girl!
You are curvaceous and real and luscious, and I adore every inch of you….”
Not fat?! She can be fat & be adored/loved! Fat and desirable.
Mads would absolutely be fat positive. Not this. It’s such a let down. Immensely so. It’s the old bs that “curvy is good/ acceptable & fat= bad/not acceptable”. This goes against the fundamentals of his character. And honestly is just a mess when the FMC is ‘curvy’.
“Not a fat girl”…. Right because fat is the worst thing ever… JFC.
Not a fat friendly book on many levels. Lots of stuff in this one along those lines.
The author doesn’t have to be FAT POSITIVE but I feel like the character 💯 would be progressive on this front as he is in every aspect of his life consistently throughout these novels. He is that voice. Always.
I get it- not every author or even women are fat positive. But I do think it shows how much there is a dichotomy with CURVY characters. (Ellie is stated to be American size 12 in the book)
Still—- the book was good/okay. It had some interesting moments. But it also left me very disappointed in a couple of areas.
It got very repetitive and sometimes the vibes were simply off for lack of a better description.
Sadie is a brilliant and talented writer. There’s so much to LOVE in this MR storyline for all the books combined.
Sadly it’s last book in the James’ series and the one I probably liked the least; despite it being the one I wanted the most.
Maddox James has long stood out as a character in his brothers’ novels and worked into a special place for me. I love that Ellie is his counterpart. They have the potential to be an absolute wonderful couple. The basic ends and outs of their story is good.
I know the author pushed back the release date originally and did some changes. I have no idea what those entailed but the final product is a little off from what I expected.
This really should have blown me TF away. SHOULD HAVE.
There were a few omissions that stood out in this last book- but that would be a spoiler no matter how I tried to mention it. So I’ll leave it as is. There are so many characters that pop up in this one but I think a few were overlooked. (And or underused) Nathan and King stood out though.
• Nice addition: There’s an incredibly great nod at the end that was perfect.
• The odd:
Maddox who is on the right trajectory with every thing, spouter of wisdom- world traveler, progressive human and in touch with multi cultures —-
would never say :
"Plus," he goes on, "you are not 'a fat girl!
You are curvaceous and real and luscious, and I adore every inch of you….”
Not fat?! She can be fat & be adored/loved! Fat and desirable.
Mads would absolutely be fat positive. Not this. It’s such a let down. Immensely so. It’s the old bs that “curvy is good/ acceptable & fat= bad/not acceptable”. This goes against the fundamentals of his character. And honestly is just a mess when the FMC is ‘curvy’.
“Not a fat girl”…. Right because fat is the worst thing ever… JFC.
Not a fat friendly book on many levels. Lots of stuff in this one along those lines.
The author doesn’t have to be FAT POSITIVE but I feel like the character 💯 would be progressive on this front as he is in every aspect of his life consistently throughout these novels. He is that voice. Always.
I get it- not every author or even women are fat positive. But I do think it shows how much there is a dichotomy with CURVY characters. (Ellie is stated to be American size 12 in the book)
Still—- the book was good/okay. It had some interesting moments. But it also left me very disappointed in a couple of areas.
It got very repetitive and sometimes the vibes were simply off for lack of a better description.
May 29, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🖤curvy FMC
🖤he breaks his celibacy for her
🖤friends to lovers
🖤touch her &💀
🖤found family
🖤praise
Maddox and Ellie’s story was absolutely everything! These two truly are meant for each other. Made is the 5th and final book in the Manhattan Ruthless Series. It can be read as a stand alone but be aware, there will be spoilers from the other books. Made had me hooked half way through the first chapter! It is just that fantastic.
I adored Ellie as our FMC. She was so fierce and strong despite going through literal hell in her early life. We’ve all been waiting for Maddox to share his story and I have to say I loved him so much! The way he was with Ellie was everything! Seeing these two work on overcoming their past traumas, both together and separate, was amazing. Again they are an absolutely perfect pair. Their broken pieces just fit together to make each other whole.
Seeing the James family again as well some other old favorites was awesome. I’m so sad for this series to end but I can’t wait for what Sadie has in store for us next.
Thank you to Sadie Kincaid for the ARC of this book.
🖤curvy FMC
🖤he breaks his celibacy for her
🖤friends to lovers
🖤touch her &💀
🖤found family
🖤praise
Maddox and Ellie’s story was absolutely everything! These two truly are meant for each other. Made is the 5th and final book in the Manhattan Ruthless Series. It can be read as a stand alone but be aware, there will be spoilers from the other books. Made had me hooked half way through the first chapter! It is just that fantastic.
I adored Ellie as our FMC. She was so fierce and strong despite going through literal hell in her early life. We’ve all been waiting for Maddox to share his story and I have to say I loved him so much! The way he was with Ellie was everything! Seeing these two work on overcoming their past traumas, both together and separate, was amazing. Again they are an absolutely perfect pair. Their broken pieces just fit together to make each other whole.
Seeing the James family again as well some other old favorites was awesome. I’m so sad for this series to end but I can’t wait for what Sadie has in store for us next.
Thank you to Sadie Kincaid for the ARC of this book.
May 21, 2026
✨ARC✨
Made by @sadie_kincaidxx
This is Book 5 in The Manhattan Ruthless Series
We have finally made it to the last of the James Brothers!
Maddox’s definitely did not disappoint! This book is one you will not be able to put down! Both Maddox and Ellie have traumatic pasts that have shaped them into who they are. What started as one night of heartbreak turned into a second chance at something magical! This book has the best yearning, tension, and spice 🥵 (he breaks his celibacy for her). It is the perfect ending to the James brothers story! And we have to love all the cameos from the other series! I can’t recommend this book and series enough! Really any Sadie book is a must buy!
This books is set to release May 28th! 💛
The previous books in the series are: Broken, Promise Me Forever, Rebound, and Played. (They are just as amazing!)
#bookreview #spicybooks #mustread #books #bookrecommendations
Made by @sadie_kincaidxx
This is Book 5 in The Manhattan Ruthless Series
We have finally made it to the last of the James Brothers!
Maddox’s definitely did not disappoint! This book is one you will not be able to put down! Both Maddox and Ellie have traumatic pasts that have shaped them into who they are. What started as one night of heartbreak turned into a second chance at something magical! This book has the best yearning, tension, and spice 🥵 (he breaks his celibacy for her). It is the perfect ending to the James brothers story! And we have to love all the cameos from the other series! I can’t recommend this book and series enough! Really any Sadie book is a must buy!
This books is set to release May 28th! 💛
The previous books in the series are: Broken, Promise Me Forever, Rebound, and Played. (They are just as amazing!)
#bookreview #spicybooks #mustread #books #bookrecommendations
May 21, 2026
I loved this series so much. Every James brother holds a special place in my heart, but Maddox is especially dear to me. I was really looking forward to his story, and it was absolutely perfect. Sadie did an outstanding job and delivered everything you could want in a book: love, spice, angst, tension, and so much emotion. Both Maddox’s and Ellie’s stories were heartbreaking. They are both so strong and have gone through so much, so I was incredibly happy they got their HEA!
I loved every second of this book, but I especially loved seeing all those beloved characters from the different series make an appearance. I think it’s so clever how she weaved everything together so seamlessly. She truly saved the best for last. I’m sad this series is over, but I’m so excited to see what’s next.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
I loved every second of this book, but I especially loved seeing all those beloved characters from the different series make an appearance. I think it’s so clever how she weaved everything together so seamlessly. She truly saved the best for last. I’m sad this series is over, but I’m so excited to see what’s next.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
May 21, 2026
A chance meeting in Morocco brings two broken souls together. Sadly, for Maddox, it was the wrong time and place.
When they finally run into each other again a few years later, the world rights itself.
But with hidden secrets in their pasts, will they still accept each other despite their demons, or will they become stronger because of them?
I love the Manhattan Ruthless series so much, and this book definitely didn’t disappoint. Maddox is perfect. A little broken but fixable. He has a dark side, but so much love for the right person.
Ellie is strong, resilient, and has been through a lot. A total warrior. She’s a curvy, hot headed live wire, and they just fit together so perfectly. Their connection is beautiful to read.
Contemporary romance
Friends to Lovers
Second Chance
Curvy FMC
Golden retriever energy, with a dark dirty side
He falls first (and hard)
Standalone with HEA
When they finally run into each other again a few years later, the world rights itself.
But with hidden secrets in their pasts, will they still accept each other despite their demons, or will they become stronger because of them?
I love the Manhattan Ruthless series so much, and this book definitely didn’t disappoint. Maddox is perfect. A little broken but fixable. He has a dark side, but so much love for the right person.
Ellie is strong, resilient, and has been through a lot. A total warrior. She’s a curvy, hot headed live wire, and they just fit together so perfectly. Their connection is beautiful to read.
Contemporary romance
Friends to Lovers
Second Chance
Curvy FMC
Golden retriever energy, with a dark dirty side
He falls first (and hard)
Standalone with HEA
May 28, 2026
Okayyyy Maddox you absolute dreamboat.
I am a huge fan of Sadie’s and this series especially is outstanding. It’s emotional and thought provoking with depth and family at the heart.
I love Maddox, he is a real special character who works hard to be the best version of himself, I enjoyed Ellie’s development as a character in the middle I did find her slightly whiney but honestly she was a perfect fit for Mad and a great addition to the James clan!
I LOVED the character crossovers, it was extremely comforting to have them pop in and see where they are now - Lorenzo is my fave so that was perfection!
I may 80% I was like wow this book bravo. And then realised I had 20% left and panicked my little butt off - however it was gripping and fast paced. I just love when the MMC goes all alpha protector.
Another great book!
Thank you for the ARC!
I am a huge fan of Sadie’s and this series especially is outstanding. It’s emotional and thought provoking with depth and family at the heart.
I love Maddox, he is a real special character who works hard to be the best version of himself, I enjoyed Ellie’s development as a character in the middle I did find her slightly whiney but honestly she was a perfect fit for Mad and a great addition to the James clan!
I LOVED the character crossovers, it was extremely comforting to have them pop in and see where they are now - Lorenzo is my fave so that was perfection!
I may 80% I was like wow this book bravo. And then realised I had 20% left and panicked my little butt off - however it was gripping and fast paced. I just love when the MMC goes all alpha protector.
Another great book!
Thank you for the ARC!
May 22, 2026
Omg! This book was absolutely perfect! What an ending to the James family saga!! I’ve been waiting for Maddox’s story and IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT!!! Maddox and Ellie were absolutely everything! The trauma they suffered through, and the healing they both had was devastating and heart wrenching, but oh so perfect!! I always love seeing the crossover characters and this one definitely was amazing for that aspect of it! It’s amazing how a book can make you feel all the things!!! I’m so sad that it’s the end of the series, but hope to see more of the James clan in the future!! Thank you for yet another beautiful journey!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️/ 3 🌶️
What an ending to James's brothers! I just love when Broken MCs come together to make something beautiful, and this is what Sadie gave us in this one!
Maddox and Ellie were written perfectly! The chemistry, the spice, the angst, you can feel it through the pages. 💕
I am definitely going to miss these brothers, can't wait to see what Sadie writes next!
Tropes: Second Chance, Workplace
What an ending to James's brothers! I just love when Broken MCs come together to make something beautiful, and this is what Sadie gave us in this one!
Maddox and Ellie were written perfectly! The chemistry, the spice, the angst, you can feel it through the pages. 💕
I am definitely going to miss these brothers, can't wait to see what Sadie writes next!
Tropes: Second Chance, Workplace
May 23, 2026
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oh Sadie! Mad dog and Ellie what a broken duo that fit so perfectly!!
They both have been through so much but are such amazing adults trying to give back and move forward. They meet again unexpectedly after a wonderful night together traveling that needed with both feeling so many things. They start a friendship that leads to so much more.
I stayed up until I finished!!! I had to know…
#made #sadiekincaidauthor #risareads221reviews
Oh Sadie! Mad dog and Ellie what a broken duo that fit so perfectly!!
They both have been through so much but are such amazing adults trying to give back and move forward. They meet again unexpectedly after a wonderful night together traveling that needed with both feeling so many things. They start a friendship that leads to so much more.
I stayed up until I finished!!! I had to know…
#made #sadiekincaidauthor #risareads221reviews
May 27, 2026
Made was everything I hoped it would be and more. Maddox and Ellie’s friendship was beautiful from the get go. They both have been through it and navigated their trauma from their pasts in a way that works best for each of them. When their friendship inevitably becomes more they face challenges that really test them and the love for one another.
Maddox is what every woman wants their significant other to be - possessive, protective and communicates impeccably. Take notes men of the world because this man is something else!
The cameos from the ruthless world were amazing, it was like a coming home I didn’t know I needed.
What an incredible why to finish off the James Brothers and I really do hope we get to see them in the next Ruthless world adventures 🖤
Maddox is what every woman wants their significant other to be - possessive, protective and communicates impeccably. Take notes men of the world because this man is something else!
The cameos from the ruthless world were amazing, it was like a coming home I didn’t know I needed.
What an incredible why to finish off the James Brothers and I really do hope we get to see them in the next Ruthless world adventures 🖤
Did Not Finish
May 30, 2026So boring- the same old thing. Way too much focus on the fmc weight and body. It came up in EVERY chapter. There was 6 months of friendship we barely saw.
May 30, 2026
They just kept going on and on about how she was “so big” and then say she’s a size 12 — I can’t
May 24, 2026
I have been looking forward to reading Maddoxs book for so long and I can’t help but feel like it was a bit rushed even thought I know it wasn’t? It just didn’t hit how the others in the series had but with saying that I still loved the book I just wanted more? Maybe I’m greedy? I love that Ellie is more of a curvy character and how Maddox loves her. I love that Keres was back for a portion of it and my baby lorenzo. I’d recommend it but it’s not my fave in the series that’s all.
Read
May 29, 2026DNF
Read
October 18, 2025I'm sat
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC received from Sadie Kincaid and Kate Johnson in exchange for honest review.
⚡BLURB⚡
Maddox James is the entire package. Soulful, deep, hotter than the fiery pits of hell. He’s also my best friend, and did I mention, he’s celibate?
Two years ago, we were strangers sharing sunsets, secrets, and a connection neither of us could ignore. For one perfect night, I thought something extraordinary was beginning—until he rejected me without explanation, leaving me feeling humiliated.
Now, fate has thrown us together again in the worst possible way: he’s my boss’s younger brother. Still maddeningly handsome, endlessly compassionate, and impossible to ignore. The worst part? He’s impossible to dislike too. Beneath the sexy confident smiles and effortless charm is someone quieter than I remember, someone carrying shadows I don’t understand. And when he finally tells me the truth, that rejecting me had nothing to do with him not wanting me—it changes everything.
Somewhere between late-night conversations, daily laughter and sharing our dreams, he becomes my best friend. Which would be fine if I wasn’t falling for him all over again.
Because friendship starts to feel dangerously small when every touch lingers too long, every look feels like a confession, and the man who once swore off intimacy begins breaking every rule he made for himself.
But love doesn’t erase the past. And when the darkest parts of our lives come back to claim us, we’ll have to decide if what we have is strong enough to survive the things that almost destroyed us both.
⚡REVIEW⚡
I have read all of Manhattan Ruthless, and after the breadcrumbs dripped through the previous books, Maddox's story was the one I was most looking forward to. And I was not disappointed!
After a misunderstanding left both parties with the wrong idea about the other, Maddox and Ellie are thrown into each other's orbit again by chance, when he sees her working with his brothers Mason and Elijah. After a period of tension, the truth finally comes to light and a strong friendship is forged (even though neither of them have a remotely platonic thought about the other). When it finally turns romantic, it is hotter than hot.
Maddox James is a giant softie who is incredibly aware of both himself and others, and the impact of things he says and does. After a torrid time as a younger man, he has been celibate for years, as part of addiction management. He is quick to recognise if he inadvertently causes any hurt or distress, particularly when it comes to Ellie. In that aspect, he is the dream. But this is a Sadie book, and therefore he has his dark side and his demons. He is fiery when it comes to her, lashing out at his brothers over perceived slights (which had me swooning, because who doesn't want a huge, tattooed protector who also knows what to say if he thinks he's gotten it wrong? 😍), and he has a secret in his past that, as it inevitably does, comes back to bite. But what I really loved about him was his positivity when it came to her body. It can be easy to fall into the trap of using plus size as a gimmick without understanding the hangups that go with it, but I feel like Sadie nailed the appreciation and also the way he helped her through her insecurities. He made her feel beautiful, sexy and cherished.
Along those lines, I thought Sadie's interpretation of a plus size heroine was very thought out and considerate. Whilst Ellie was usually positive about her curves and her eating habits, she had her moments of insecurity and self loathing, which I can totally empathise with as a plus size woman. It is extremely hard when being next to the aspirational slim woman, not to feel some sense of insecurity, no matter how much your partner appears to adore you, and I felt like it came across very authentically in this book. I also loved Ellie's acceptance of Maddox's history, with the context of her own background and her adopted family meaning she only loved him more fiercely for it.
As always with a Sadie Ruthless book, there is a twist in the tale that brings the third act drama, and this one is a doozy. My heart was in my mouth as the action played out, wondering how Maddox would respond, and whether his demons would take over.
Ellie's adopted family meant some cameos of old friends from Sadie's other Ruthless series', which were a joy, particularly one character who has been my favourite of all time. The James brothers and their families are always a delight to see, their bonds so strong and their instant rallying cry in a time of need providing a sense of family over anything else.
Made is a story of demons, redemption, acceptance, insecurity and positive affirmation, wrapped up in a love story that is so beautiful it made my heart ache. As a plus sized character in my own story, I dream of a love and appreciation like Maddox gives Ellie.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
⚡BLURB⚡
Maddox James is the entire package. Soulful, deep, hotter than the fiery pits of hell. He’s also my best friend, and did I mention, he’s celibate?
Two years ago, we were strangers sharing sunsets, secrets, and a connection neither of us could ignore. For one perfect night, I thought something extraordinary was beginning—until he rejected me without explanation, leaving me feeling humiliated.
Now, fate has thrown us together again in the worst possible way: he’s my boss’s younger brother. Still maddeningly handsome, endlessly compassionate, and impossible to ignore. The worst part? He’s impossible to dislike too. Beneath the sexy confident smiles and effortless charm is someone quieter than I remember, someone carrying shadows I don’t understand. And when he finally tells me the truth, that rejecting me had nothing to do with him not wanting me—it changes everything.
Somewhere between late-night conversations, daily laughter and sharing our dreams, he becomes my best friend. Which would be fine if I wasn’t falling for him all over again.
Because friendship starts to feel dangerously small when every touch lingers too long, every look feels like a confession, and the man who once swore off intimacy begins breaking every rule he made for himself.
But love doesn’t erase the past. And when the darkest parts of our lives come back to claim us, we’ll have to decide if what we have is strong enough to survive the things that almost destroyed us both.
⚡REVIEW⚡
I have read all of Manhattan Ruthless, and after the breadcrumbs dripped through the previous books, Maddox's story was the one I was most looking forward to. And I was not disappointed!
After a misunderstanding left both parties with the wrong idea about the other, Maddox and Ellie are thrown into each other's orbit again by chance, when he sees her working with his brothers Mason and Elijah. After a period of tension, the truth finally comes to light and a strong friendship is forged (even though neither of them have a remotely platonic thought about the other). When it finally turns romantic, it is hotter than hot.
Maddox James is a giant softie who is incredibly aware of both himself and others, and the impact of things he says and does. After a torrid time as a younger man, he has been celibate for years, as part of addiction management. He is quick to recognise if he inadvertently causes any hurt or distress, particularly when it comes to Ellie. In that aspect, he is the dream. But this is a Sadie book, and therefore he has his dark side and his demons. He is fiery when it comes to her, lashing out at his brothers over perceived slights (which had me swooning, because who doesn't want a huge, tattooed protector who also knows what to say if he thinks he's gotten it wrong? 😍), and he has a secret in his past that, as it inevitably does, comes back to bite. But what I really loved about him was his positivity when it came to her body. It can be easy to fall into the trap of using plus size as a gimmick without understanding the hangups that go with it, but I feel like Sadie nailed the appreciation and also the way he helped her through her insecurities. He made her feel beautiful, sexy and cherished.
Along those lines, I thought Sadie's interpretation of a plus size heroine was very thought out and considerate. Whilst Ellie was usually positive about her curves and her eating habits, she had her moments of insecurity and self loathing, which I can totally empathise with as a plus size woman. It is extremely hard when being next to the aspirational slim woman, not to feel some sense of insecurity, no matter how much your partner appears to adore you, and I felt like it came across very authentically in this book. I also loved Ellie's acceptance of Maddox's history, with the context of her own background and her adopted family meaning she only loved him more fiercely for it.
As always with a Sadie Ruthless book, there is a twist in the tale that brings the third act drama, and this one is a doozy. My heart was in my mouth as the action played out, wondering how Maddox would respond, and whether his demons would take over.
Ellie's adopted family meant some cameos of old friends from Sadie's other Ruthless series', which were a joy, particularly one character who has been my favourite of all time. The James brothers and their families are always a delight to see, their bonds so strong and their instant rallying cry in a time of need providing a sense of family over anything else.
Made is a story of demons, redemption, acceptance, insecurity and positive affirmation, wrapped up in a love story that is so beautiful it made my heart ache. As a plus sized character in my own story, I dream of a love and appreciation like Maddox gives Ellie.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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