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Forbidden #4
Taste of Surrender: A MM Brother's Best Friend Standalone Romance
Jasper Bennett has always thought his crush on Malachi Danvers, his older brother’s straight best friend, was one-sided. But everything changes during a family camping trip when Malachi confesses his own hidden feelings for Jasper.
After a taste of what could be, Jasper and Malachi can’t get enough of each other. From stolen kisses to sneaking into bedroom windows, they embrace their forbidden romance until both of their hearts shatter when Malachi receives the news his band, Surrender, has scored a shot at fame in Los Angeles through a reality competition.
Caught between his feelings for Jasper and Surrender’s big break, Malachi decides to chase his dreams out west, expecting Jasper to wait for him until he returns to Boston. Instead, Jasper has aspirations too, and jets off to Paris for culinary school.
With the distance between them and no one knowing Malachi is bisexual, they realize there isn’t much of a future for their relationship. That is until years later when Jasper’s brother offers him a job as Surrender’s chef for their upcoming tour.
Not able to pass up the opportunity of a lifetime, Jasper accepts the position. Once they’re reunited, Jasper and Malachi have to address their unresolved feelings. Leaving them to decide if a second chance at love outweighs the risks of exposing their secrets or if it’s time to surrender what they once shared.
After a taste of what could be, Jasper and Malachi can’t get enough of each other. From stolen kisses to sneaking into bedroom windows, they embrace their forbidden romance until both of their hearts shatter when Malachi receives the news his band, Surrender, has scored a shot at fame in Los Angeles through a reality competition.
Caught between his feelings for Jasper and Surrender’s big break, Malachi decides to chase his dreams out west, expecting Jasper to wait for him until he returns to Boston. Instead, Jasper has aspirations too, and jets off to Paris for culinary school.
With the distance between them and no one knowing Malachi is bisexual, they realize there isn’t much of a future for their relationship. That is until years later when Jasper’s brother offers him a job as Surrender’s chef for their upcoming tour.
Not able to pass up the opportunity of a lifetime, Jasper accepts the position. Once they’re reunited, Jasper and Malachi have to address their unresolved feelings. Leaving them to decide if a second chance at love outweighs the risks of exposing their secrets or if it’s time to surrender what they once shared.
244 pages, Paperback
First published August 23, 2024
311 people are currently reading
435 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Knight
78 books3,017 followersKimberly Knight is a USA Today Bestselling author who lives in the Central Valley of California with her loving husband, who is a great research assistant, and young daughter, who keeps Kimberly on her toes. Kimberly writes in a variety of genres, including romantic suspense, contemporary romance, erotic romance, and paranormal romance. Her books will make you laugh, cry, swoon, and fall in love before she throws you curve balls you never see coming.
When Kimberly isn’t writing, you can find her watching her favorite reality TV shows, including cooking competitions, binge-watching true crime documentaries, and going to San Francisco Giants games. She’s also a two-time desmoid tumor/cancer fighter, which has made her stronger and an inspiration to her fans.
When Kimberly isn’t writing, you can find her watching her favorite reality TV shows, including cooking competitions, binge-watching true crime documentaries, and going to San Francisco Giants games. She’s also a two-time desmoid tumor/cancer fighter, which has made her stronger and an inspiration to her fans.
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October 3, 2024
RATING 4.5 STARS
Taste of Surrender is book four in the Forbidden series by Kimberly Knight and Rachel Lyn Adams. I have loved this series from the start and adore these two authors writing together. I was so looking forward to Jasper’s book and it was wonderful.
When this story starts out, Jasper Bennett is still in high school and is out as gay. His older brother by two years is fiercely protective of him. Malachi Danvers is Jasper’s brother’s best friend and they, along with two others, have a garage band with hopes of being famous someday. Jasper has always had a crush on Malachi, thinking he was straight. But Malachi has a secret he hasn’t shared with anyone. He is bi! He is known as a bit of a ladies man and it helps their band since he’s the lead singer. But he has also always had a bit of a crush on his best friend’s younger brother. Then the kiss happened and he was lost.
But when Jasper was a senior, his brother had the idea to enter their band in a reality competition in Los Angeles. If they could win, it would be their chance at the stardom they dream of. When the band decides to head to L.A. to try to make it, Malachi has to go with him, leaving his heart behind. But Jasper has his own dreams to pursue, that of being a chef.
We first met Jasper in the previous book, Boss of Attraction, as the personal chef to Sean. It’s three and a half years after the band moved to L.A. when Jasper’s brother asks him to be the chef for their band, Surrender, while on tour. He and Malachi haven’t seen each other since they first left. Even though their fledgling relationship ended when they parted ways, their feelings never died. Jasper has to decide if he is brave enough to face him once again and see if there is still a chance for them.
I loved these two together. All it takes is one look and they both know they are meant to be together. But Malachi still isn’t out and the label wants him to pretend to be with an up and coming female singer. He doesn’t even want to imagine what Jasper’s brother would say about their relationship. But they can’t stay away from each other, their feelings stronger than ever. But you know what usually happens with secrets? They never can stay secret for long!
The love between these two flowed off the pages for me. They had so many hurdles in their paths but I believe it just made them stronger. I also loved getting to know the other members of the band. As of now, there are two more books planned for this series and I can’t wait. Both sound amazing. I’ve pretty much accepted that if these two authors write it, I am definitely going to read it.
“He was my heart.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Taste of Surrender is book four in the Forbidden series by Kimberly Knight and Rachel Lyn Adams. I have loved this series from the start and adore these two authors writing together. I was so looking forward to Jasper’s book and it was wonderful.
When this story starts out, Jasper Bennett is still in high school and is out as gay. His older brother by two years is fiercely protective of him. Malachi Danvers is Jasper’s brother’s best friend and they, along with two others, have a garage band with hopes of being famous someday. Jasper has always had a crush on Malachi, thinking he was straight. But Malachi has a secret he hasn’t shared with anyone. He is bi! He is known as a bit of a ladies man and it helps their band since he’s the lead singer. But he has also always had a bit of a crush on his best friend’s younger brother. Then the kiss happened and he was lost.
But when Jasper was a senior, his brother had the idea to enter their band in a reality competition in Los Angeles. If they could win, it would be their chance at the stardom they dream of. When the band decides to head to L.A. to try to make it, Malachi has to go with him, leaving his heart behind. But Jasper has his own dreams to pursue, that of being a chef.
We first met Jasper in the previous book, Boss of Attraction, as the personal chef to Sean. It’s three and a half years after the band moved to L.A. when Jasper’s brother asks him to be the chef for their band, Surrender, while on tour. He and Malachi haven’t seen each other since they first left. Even though their fledgling relationship ended when they parted ways, their feelings never died. Jasper has to decide if he is brave enough to face him once again and see if there is still a chance for them.
I loved these two together. All it takes is one look and they both know they are meant to be together. But Malachi still isn’t out and the label wants him to pretend to be with an up and coming female singer. He doesn’t even want to imagine what Jasper’s brother would say about their relationship. But they can’t stay away from each other, their feelings stronger than ever. But you know what usually happens with secrets? They never can stay secret for long!
The love between these two flowed off the pages for me. They had so many hurdles in their paths but I believe it just made them stronger. I also loved getting to know the other members of the band. As of now, there are two more books planned for this series and I can’t wait. Both sound amazing. I’ve pretty much accepted that if these two authors write it, I am definitely going to read it.
“He was my heart.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
August 26, 2024
I was so fucking bored.
August 1, 2024
Taste of Surrender is an entertaining second-chance romance between Jasper and Malachi. These two were smitten with one another in high school, but due to a series of events and overall timing, they were unable to pursue a relationship they both desperately wanted. Now five years later they are finally reunited, making for a sweet, endearing, and heartfelt second-chance romance that I could not get enough of.
Overall Jasper and Malachi have amazing chemistry and I couldn't wait to see them find their way back to one another. This is a great story and I loved all of the little easter eggs for future entries.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Overall Jasper and Malachi have amazing chemistry and I couldn't wait to see them find their way back to one another. This is a great story and I loved all of the little easter eggs for future entries.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
August 18, 2024
❥ Dual POV
❥ MM Romance
❥ Rock Star/Chef
❥ Brother's Best Friend
❥ Second Chance
❥ Forbidden
❥ Secret Relationship
❥ Songs About Him
❥ Coming Out
Taste of Surrender was to me a fast-paced, sweet and low angst read. There are some sensitive subjects, but it's handled very delicately.
Jasper is out and proud, and has a major crush on his big brother's best friend, Malachi. Malachi is supposed to be straight, but little does Jasper know, Malachi actually has a crush on him too.
After a little bit of flirting, they have their first kiss, and the start of a forbidden, secret relationship happens. But.. Malachi is in a band (with Jesse, Jasper's brother), and obviously they're aiming to hit it big, and they do. Which leaves Jasper and Malachi no other choice than to say goodbye.
Years later Jasper gets the opportunity to follow Surrender, the band, on their tour as their chef, and he's yet again close to Malachi, who hasn't forgotten about Jasper. Actually, all of Malachi's songs are about the guy he lost.
Jasper and Malachi are super sweet together, though I'm not a super fan of secret relationships, especially not when it's a sibling's best friend. The secrecy always makes things worse! But it's easy to say as a reader. It didn't take away how much I enjoyed their love story, despite it being sad at times, as they accept they have no future together, but still pining after each other with years apart. Their HEA was a bit complicated as their secrets are uncovered, but well deserved.
I hope Silas (another band member) gets a book, if he hasn't already. I'd love to see a HEA for him.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
❥ MM Romance
❥ Rock Star/Chef
❥ Brother's Best Friend
❥ Second Chance
❥ Forbidden
❥ Secret Relationship
❥ Songs About Him
❥ Coming Out
Taste of Surrender was to me a fast-paced, sweet and low angst read. There are some sensitive subjects, but it's handled very delicately.
Jasper is out and proud, and has a major crush on his big brother's best friend, Malachi. Malachi is supposed to be straight, but little does Jasper know, Malachi actually has a crush on him too.
After a little bit of flirting, they have their first kiss, and the start of a forbidden, secret relationship happens. But.. Malachi is in a band (with Jesse, Jasper's brother), and obviously they're aiming to hit it big, and they do. Which leaves Jasper and Malachi no other choice than to say goodbye.
Years later Jasper gets the opportunity to follow Surrender, the band, on their tour as their chef, and he's yet again close to Malachi, who hasn't forgotten about Jasper. Actually, all of Malachi's songs are about the guy he lost.
Jasper and Malachi are super sweet together, though I'm not a super fan of secret relationships, especially not when it's a sibling's best friend. The secrecy always makes things worse! But it's easy to say as a reader. It didn't take away how much I enjoyed their love story, despite it being sad at times, as they accept they have no future together, but still pining after each other with years apart. Their HEA was a bit complicated as their secrets are uncovered, but well deserved.
I hope Silas (another band member) gets a book, if he hasn't already. I'd love to see a HEA for him.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 4, 2024
2.75⭐
The book is alright, the developments are quite good, it's readable, but the connection between the main characters isn't believable. It's just a teenage crush that ended and was supposed to end and the way it develops further is again too Hallmark-y for me.
🟢 Rockstar/best friend's little brother
🔵 Teenage love
🟠 Both around 23-25
🟣 Gay/bisexual
🔵 Hiding the relationship, coming out
🌶️ Quite a few descriptive sex scenes, rimming, oral, penetrative; t/b
Jasper you already know from the previous book, I thought he was older, but he's about 23 years old and a private chef who's had a teenage quick romance with his big brother's best friend Malachi.
Malachi is in a band that goes viral when they enter a competition and in the next 4 years they get really famous. Malachi and Jasper don't talk, they don't stay in contact and that was it, they both moved on with their lives, no grande amour to pine for.
"As the minutes ticked by, I wished for nothing more than to freeze time, to hold on to that moment, but my dream was always to make it big and this was the break Surrender needed. I couldn’t jeopardize it for whatever was between me and Jasper."
But when Jasper goes to work for the band a few years later, it's suddenly game on, they're "back together" even though they were never together in the first place, everything's just forgotten and they're suddenly insanely happy in love.
"While I was on the medication to keep me healthy since I had been known to fuck a lot, I never went without a condom. Not until now. Not until him."
Malachi was quite the jerk, especially since he had a member of his tour group that was a woman singer he hooked up with and even when Jasper was there, that was an option.
So for him to talk like "not until him" wasn't believable at all. Malachi didn't care for Jasper, not even to text in all those years, he was too busy fucking around a lot, so 😄 just a weird love story. How is this even a love story?
That song that was supposedly about Jasper and Malachi sang it with the woman singer while feeling the connection with her in front of Jasper? Man, someone should tell Jasper to stay away from the guy.
I don't know, I would've expected at least some angst, or maybe for Jasper to be less available at least. He just falls back into what they had - which wasn't anything big to begin with - and they're sneaking around, not telling the big brother, but they're just together right off the bat, because they were supposedly so in love, which wasn't felt, like ever.
This to me looked like the author watching 2 men in the wild and adding an unfitting cheesy romantic dialogue and developments in the background, just pick a romantic movie and insert these two. What's written down is completely different from what's actually happening.
The sex was boring and repetitive, the dirty talk doesn't work, so whoever had a big part of writing the previous installment definitely wasn't much present here.
• The constant mentioning of bro hugs. It's weird. You have to say it over and over again?
"All of us jumped up, screaming and celebrating with bro hugs and huge ass smiles."
"Elliott and Silas jumped down too, and greeted Jasper with bro hugs."
This just kept on going. 😄
But I'm down with it. It's fine. Let's at least make it worthwhile, right
There's your bro hug.
The story itself is a bit below average on my digestible scale, but with a few twists and turns it could be really good though. Rockstar romances are usually a good pick for me, this one just didn't do the trick.
The book is alright, the developments are quite good, it's readable, but the connection between the main characters isn't believable. It's just a teenage crush that ended and was supposed to end and the way it develops further is again too Hallmark-y for me.
🟢 Rockstar/best friend's little brother
🔵 Teenage love
🟠 Both around 23-25
🟣 Gay/bisexual
🔵 Hiding the relationship, coming out
🌶️ Quite a few descriptive sex scenes, rimming, oral, penetrative; t/b
Jasper you already know from the previous book, I thought he was older, but he's about 23 years old and a private chef who's had a teenage quick romance with his big brother's best friend Malachi.
Malachi is in a band that goes viral when they enter a competition and in the next 4 years they get really famous. Malachi and Jasper don't talk, they don't stay in contact and that was it, they both moved on with their lives, no grande amour to pine for.
"As the minutes ticked by, I wished for nothing more than to freeze time, to hold on to that moment, but my dream was always to make it big and this was the break Surrender needed. I couldn’t jeopardize it for whatever was between me and Jasper."
But when Jasper goes to work for the band a few years later, it's suddenly game on, they're "back together" even though they were never together in the first place, everything's just forgotten and they're suddenly insanely happy in love.
"While I was on the medication to keep me healthy since I had been known to fuck a lot, I never went without a condom. Not until now. Not until him."
Malachi was quite the jerk, especially since he had a member of his tour group that was a woman singer he hooked up with and even when Jasper was there, that was an option.
So for him to talk like "not until him" wasn't believable at all. Malachi didn't care for Jasper, not even to text in all those years, he was too busy fucking around a lot, so 😄 just a weird love story. How is this even a love story?
That song that was supposedly about Jasper and Malachi sang it with the woman singer while feeling the connection with her in front of Jasper? Man, someone should tell Jasper to stay away from the guy.
I don't know, I would've expected at least some angst, or maybe for Jasper to be less available at least. He just falls back into what they had - which wasn't anything big to begin with - and they're sneaking around, not telling the big brother, but they're just together right off the bat, because they were supposedly so in love, which wasn't felt, like ever.
This to me looked like the author watching 2 men in the wild and adding an unfitting cheesy romantic dialogue and developments in the background, just pick a romantic movie and insert these two. What's written down is completely different from what's actually happening.
The sex was boring and repetitive, the dirty talk doesn't work, so whoever had a big part of writing the previous installment definitely wasn't much present here.
• The constant mentioning of bro hugs. It's weird. You have to say it over and over again?
"All of us jumped up, screaming and celebrating with bro hugs and huge ass smiles."
"Elliott and Silas jumped down too, and greeted Jasper with bro hugs."
This just kept on going. 😄
But I'm down with it. It's fine. Let's at least make it worthwhile, right
There's your bro hug.
The story itself is a bit below average on my digestible scale, but with a few twists and turns it could be really good though. Rockstar romances are usually a good pick for me, this one just didn't do the trick.
Read
August 19, 20244.5. This is the 4th book in the Forbidden series by these authors. While I have not read the first 3 (and have read the book from which the first Forbidden books spins off), I did not feel as if I was missing anything. However, I definitely want to remedy that soon and read the first 3 books.
This book was just wonderful to read - it was fast paced and kept me engrossed throughout. In fact, I read it in one afternoon because I did not want to put it down. While this is a Best Friend's Brother book, Malachi was also friendly with his BFF's brother and they have all known each other since childhood - and that makes it sweeter for me. I love romances where the MCs have known each other since they were young and awkward. We get to see Malachi been sweet to Jasper since Jasper was 16 and a baby gay. I love that we get to see how they start to develop feelings so early on life - they are just adorable.
While this is dual POV, I do feel like we get to see a little deeper into Malachi's self than we do into Jasper. Nonetheless, the feelings between both of them are clearly strong from beginning to end -- though they do have to find their way back to each other after circumstances separate them early -- and the chemistry sizzles. Overall, there is low angst, though of course there is tension here and there to keep us eager to continue reading :)
I enjoyed the camaraderie between the band members and their sense of family. I also loved that we get some hints about potential future couples (and I'm super excited to continue reading this series...especially since I think we will get to see more about the band Surrender!).
Also, there were a couple of places where I could really feel the emotions and I may have had some tears. Loved their last chapter so much.
OK: 2 more things -I want to offer kudos: 1) these authors struck a perfect balance with the presence of the female side characters and they were likeable. Very well done! and 2) Having read some of their earlier MM books...thank you for giving these MCs plenty of lube ;)
What to Expect:
* Secret Relationship
* Best Friend's Brother/Forbidden
* Chef MC (little brother) + Rockstar MC (best friend)
* Childhood friends
* Second chance
* The lyrics were about HIM
* cameos from previous books/hints for future books
Thanks to the authors and The Author's Agency for this ARC - this is my honest review.
This book was just wonderful to read - it was fast paced and kept me engrossed throughout. In fact, I read it in one afternoon because I did not want to put it down. While this is a Best Friend's Brother book, Malachi was also friendly with his BFF's brother and they have all known each other since childhood - and that makes it sweeter for me. I love romances where the MCs have known each other since they were young and awkward. We get to see Malachi been sweet to Jasper since Jasper was 16 and a baby gay. I love that we get to see how they start to develop feelings so early on life - they are just adorable.
While this is dual POV, I do feel like we get to see a little deeper into Malachi's self than we do into Jasper. Nonetheless, the feelings between both of them are clearly strong from beginning to end -- though they do have to find their way back to each other after circumstances separate them early -- and the chemistry sizzles. Overall, there is low angst, though of course there is tension here and there to keep us eager to continue reading :)
I enjoyed the camaraderie between the band members and their sense of family. I also loved that we get some hints about potential future couples (and I'm super excited to continue reading this series...especially since I think we will get to see more about the band Surrender!).
Also, there were a couple of places where I could really feel the emotions and I may have had some tears. Loved their last chapter so much.
OK: 2 more things -I want to offer kudos: 1) these authors struck a perfect balance with the presence of the female side characters and they were likeable. Very well done! and 2) Having read some of their earlier MM books...thank you for giving these MCs plenty of lube ;)
What to Expect:
* Secret Relationship
* Best Friend's Brother/Forbidden
* Chef MC (little brother) + Rockstar MC (best friend)
* Childhood friends
* Second chance
* The lyrics were about HIM
* cameos from previous books/hints for future books
Thanks to the authors and The Author's Agency for this ARC - this is my honest review.
August 20, 2024
Just like the rest of the books by these ladies, this one doesn't disappoint. Loved these characters and their long story of feelings, being apart and coming back together. It was a romantic and steamy read. I loved having all the other characters in this story. These two authors are a must read !!!
January 24, 2025
I liked this one for the most part. Jasper and Malachi make a really good couple. I struggled though with them not speaking for three years, or how Jasper just left and didn't say goodbye. It's the 'I'm going to let you go because it's better for you' mentality and I hate it.
And because we had that, we have to deal with putting on a fake relationship and just other crap that we didn't need to had they just had a conversation.
But, these books do draw you in. I just wish they could've been themselves with other people sooner. And I wanted so much more with these two in the end. An epilogue or something.
And because we had that, we have to deal with putting on a fake relationship and just other crap that we didn't need to had they just had a conversation.
But, these books do draw you in. I just wish they could've been themselves with other people sooner. And I wanted so much more with these two in the end. An epilogue or something.
May 26, 2025
this book was short and sweet and i fell in love with every single character! i read this in one sitting and im so happy these two got their HEA!!
(my only complaint is it could have been way more angsty hehe)
(my only complaint is it could have been way more angsty hehe)
August 28, 2024
love this one! i love the whole series and can wait for the others! the writing is always perfection!
October 26, 2024
So what is forbidden? The fact that Mal is the brother’s best friend? Or because he is closeted? Just doesn’t feel high stakes. There was no build up to the relationship and even now, there is no chemistry. I just don’t care…and we haven’t even gotten to the inciting incident that will start the story at 20%
Bored so not finishing
Ok. I tried a bit more and stuck around to 63%. Still bored. It just feels like it is only smut which is fine if that is what you want in the book. But I was hoping for some romance/relationship building too. Like, I don’t know these characters at all. Nothing really matters. There is no building of their connection- they just ARE in love we are told
Dnf
Bored so not finishing
Ok. I tried a bit more and stuck around to 63%. Still bored. It just feels like it is only smut which is fine if that is what you want in the book. But I was hoping for some romance/relationship building too. Like, I don’t know these characters at all. Nothing really matters. There is no building of their connection- they just ARE in love we are told
Dnf
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2024
This book was a fun read. I love how Jasper and Malachi didn't really have any drama. The plot is simple and so good. Two guys into each other...life takes them in different directions...life brings them back together. I loved that these two didn't BS around with animosity for each other and the circumstances of their past and just fell right back into it with each other. Love when authors don't need to put unnecessary added drama with the main MCs.
However, the friendship between Jasper's brother and Malachi.. I didn't care for. I just don't see how Malachi would harbor those old school feelings and views about how he thought the guys wanted him to be (playboy) into his adulthood. He didn't tell anyone cause he thought the guys wanted him to portray that persona. I just didn't get that.
Besides that... great read!
🔥MM Romance
🔥Brother's Best Friend
🔥Rock Star
🔥Second Chance
🔥Forbidden
🔥Secret Relationship
However, the friendship between Jasper's brother and Malachi.. I didn't care for. I just don't see how Malachi would harbor those old school feelings and views about how he thought the guys wanted him to be (playboy) into his adulthood. He didn't tell anyone cause he thought the guys wanted him to portray that persona. I just didn't get that.
Besides that... great read!
🔥MM Romance
🔥Brother's Best Friend
🔥Rock Star
🔥Second Chance
🔥Forbidden
🔥Secret Relationship
August 21, 2024
Review by: Jennifer
(5 Stars)
I am in love with this series, it just keeps getting better and better! Jasper and Malachi had me in their grasp from the very first page and when the book ended, I was still not ready to let them go! Malachi is Jasper's brother's best friend (say that a couple times fast), and he has the hots for him, but when Malachi flirts a bit, it throws Jasper for a loop. There is no way that Malachi would be interested in lil ol' him, but he is, which starts a quick downlow thing as no one can know what's going on. When Malachi and Jesse's band win a music competition, they are on their way to stardom and all the fame they could ever want, leaving Jasper behind in Boston. A few years go by, and Malachi and Jasper obviously drifted apart, but an opportunity to have Jasper hired as the band's caterer pops up and he accepts. After all the years, the two are back in each other's vicinity. Are the sparks still there, or was that just a teenage dream? Will the secret that they kept be revealed and put everything in jeopardy?
This was freaking amazing! Giving us all the feels, my heart broke for Jasper when the band won, of course they would win and the two would separate, doesn't mean my heart was ready for it. I won't lie, things I thought would happen didn't, which means, this was unpredictable, and I LOVE that. I give this 5 stars.
(5 Stars)
I am in love with this series, it just keeps getting better and better! Jasper and Malachi had me in their grasp from the very first page and when the book ended, I was still not ready to let them go! Malachi is Jasper's brother's best friend (say that a couple times fast), and he has the hots for him, but when Malachi flirts a bit, it throws Jasper for a loop. There is no way that Malachi would be interested in lil ol' him, but he is, which starts a quick downlow thing as no one can know what's going on. When Malachi and Jesse's band win a music competition, they are on their way to stardom and all the fame they could ever want, leaving Jasper behind in Boston. A few years go by, and Malachi and Jasper obviously drifted apart, but an opportunity to have Jasper hired as the band's caterer pops up and he accepts. After all the years, the two are back in each other's vicinity. Are the sparks still there, or was that just a teenage dream? Will the secret that they kept be revealed and put everything in jeopardy?
This was freaking amazing! Giving us all the feels, my heart broke for Jasper when the band won, of course they would win and the two would separate, doesn't mean my heart was ready for it. I won't lie, things I thought would happen didn't, which means, this was unpredictable, and I LOVE that. I give this 5 stars.
July 27, 2024
Arc Review
Jasper Bennet has always had a crush on his brother’s (Jesse) best friend, but never acted upon it, believing it was upset a few people, and thinking he was straight.
Malachi Danvers has always been protective of his best friend’s brother but never had feelings for him, until now. Malachi has kept his sexuality hidden, being bi he has only been seen with women.
When Malachi and Jesse’s band Surrender win a competition, they make it big and start to travel, leaving their home town and Jasper behind.
Four years on and Jasper has trained as a chef in Paris. He likes to be a personal chef for the wealthily, his main client is Sean Ashford (Boss of Attraction).
The caterers for Surrender pull out of their commitments just before they go on tour. Jesse suggests employing his brother to be their chef.
Thrown back together on the road, things start to heat up between Malachi and Jasper again. They need to keep it as secret as possible, but outside sources start to cause issues.
This is the fourth book in the Forbidden series by Kimberley Knight and Rachel Lyn Adams. As with the previous books, I devoured this and adored it. The story flows easily and the writing of the characters is exceptional. I am hoping that this is not the end of the series.
If you like best friend’s brother to lovers, with relatively low angst, then you need to read this.
He looked up at me. “You're going to stay in LA?”
My brow wrinkled in confusion. “I told you I didn't want to leave you”.
Jasper Bennet has always had a crush on his brother’s (Jesse) best friend, but never acted upon it, believing it was upset a few people, and thinking he was straight.
Malachi Danvers has always been protective of his best friend’s brother but never had feelings for him, until now. Malachi has kept his sexuality hidden, being bi he has only been seen with women.
When Malachi and Jesse’s band Surrender win a competition, they make it big and start to travel, leaving their home town and Jasper behind.
Four years on and Jasper has trained as a chef in Paris. He likes to be a personal chef for the wealthily, his main client is Sean Ashford (Boss of Attraction).
The caterers for Surrender pull out of their commitments just before they go on tour. Jesse suggests employing his brother to be their chef.
Thrown back together on the road, things start to heat up between Malachi and Jasper again. They need to keep it as secret as possible, but outside sources start to cause issues.
This is the fourth book in the Forbidden series by Kimberley Knight and Rachel Lyn Adams. As with the previous books, I devoured this and adored it. The story flows easily and the writing of the characters is exceptional. I am hoping that this is not the end of the series.
If you like best friend’s brother to lovers, with relatively low angst, then you need to read this.
He looked up at me. “You're going to stay in LA?”
My brow wrinkled in confusion. “I told you I didn't want to leave you”.
August 12, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is the story of Jasper & Malachi, two friends who have been close since they were just kids. One summer everything changed. Their relationship reached new heights. Scorching hot, heavy, and so much fun.
They started a secret relationship, but once Malachi and his band went to compete on a reality tv show, that relationship dwindled. They barely spoke for YEARS, until Jasper is tasked to be the new band chef on tour.
Can they keep their feelings tucked away to avoid the pain they both felt years ago when saying goodbye? Or is the chemistry between them just too strong to ignore?
All in all I loved their relationship, their bond, and I love a little secret relationship in an MM. This had the entire recipe for a delicious Rockstar, Second Chance romance, and they battled a lot of negativity to finally be able to be together, they way they always wanted to be.
This was an easy, fun, relaxing read with very little conflict, and lots of spice !
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is the story of Jasper & Malachi, two friends who have been close since they were just kids. One summer everything changed. Their relationship reached new heights. Scorching hot, heavy, and so much fun.
They started a secret relationship, but once Malachi and his band went to compete on a reality tv show, that relationship dwindled. They barely spoke for YEARS, until Jasper is tasked to be the new band chef on tour.
Can they keep their feelings tucked away to avoid the pain they both felt years ago when saying goodbye? Or is the chemistry between them just too strong to ignore?
All in all I loved their relationship, their bond, and I love a little secret relationship in an MM. This had the entire recipe for a delicious Rockstar, Second Chance romance, and they battled a lot of negativity to finally be able to be together, they way they always wanted to be.
This was an easy, fun, relaxing read with very little conflict, and lots of spice !
August 14, 2024
i haven’t read a kimberly & rachel book in a while but when i saw there was an arc for a new book, i ran!! i’m so glad i did! kimberly & rachel are such a good duo and i love their books
i loved jasper & malachi’s story! it was kind of high stakes but it wasn’t really angsty which i thought was fun. they had a cute story and i’m so happy they got their hea <3 they deserved!
also i thought i had an idea who the next book in the series would be about but i was so wrong and i’m not bad about it. i’m lowkey super excited for the next couple though!
thank you the author agency for the arc!
i loved jasper & malachi’s story! it was kind of high stakes but it wasn’t really angsty which i thought was fun. they had a cute story and i’m so happy they got their hea <3 they deserved!
also i thought i had an idea who the next book in the series would be about but i was so wrong and i’m not bad about it. i’m lowkey super excited for the next couple though!
thank you the author agency for the arc!
August 23, 2024
I stand corrected. I had thought that book two was my favorite of the series. This one takes it by a huge leap. It was so easy to get lost in the story of Jasper and Malachi. Malachi is jasper's brother's best friend. He's been around since they were much younger and Jasper always had a crush on Malachi. He didn't think anything would ever come of it. That didn't stop him from crushing hard for the singer. They get close during high school but that all changes when the band goes to a reality show for bands to try and catch their big break. When life puts them back together more often the sparks fly.
August 24, 2024
3.5
This story has a secret romance. You’re not supposed to fall for your best friend’s brother. Jasper and Malachi have known each other their whole lives. Jasper has been out for a few years. Malachi is bi, but hasn’t told those close to him. Jasper has had a crush on Malachi for forever, and can’t believe it when Malachi returns his feelings.
I enjoyed the characters and the story. It did move at a slower pace for me. I also liked the talent for both characters-Malachi with his singing and Jasper with his cooking.
3.5/5⭐️
This story has a secret romance. You’re not supposed to fall for your best friend’s brother. Jasper and Malachi have known each other their whole lives. Jasper has been out for a few years. Malachi is bi, but hasn’t told those close to him. Jasper has had a crush on Malachi for forever, and can’t believe it when Malachi returns his feelings.
I enjoyed the characters and the story. It did move at a slower pace for me. I also liked the talent for both characters-Malachi with his singing and Jasper with his cooking.
3.5/5⭐️
August 24, 2024
Second chance, brother's best friend, musician and chef, low-angst, sneaking around.
This was surprisingly sweet. I thought there would be a lot of hurt/comfort and anger and darkness, but it definitely went the light route. You can feel their pining and feelings for each other from beginning to end. Though they had to keep their relationship secret for a while, everything turned out ok in the end.
This was surprisingly sweet. I thought there would be a lot of hurt/comfort and anger and darkness, but it definitely went the light route. You can feel their pining and feelings for each other from beginning to end. Though they had to keep their relationship secret for a while, everything turned out ok in the end.
January 24, 2025
Jasper and Malachi… I’m so glad they got their HEA.
I love that the authors dealt with the sensetive subject of closeting and PR relationships when people are famous! This is a subject I feel very strongly about and I felt Kimberley and Rachel handled it perfectly!
The relationship and emotions between these men in beautiful written
I love that the authors dealt with the sensetive subject of closeting and PR relationships when people are famous! This is a subject I feel very strongly about and I felt Kimberley and Rachel handled it perfectly!
The relationship and emotions between these men in beautiful written
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2025
4.5⭐
I couldn't stop reading Taste of Surrender. I love forbidden romances, and this one hit all the right spots.
As Jasper has a crush on his brother Jesse's best friend Malachi.
Who everyone, including Jasper and Jesse, believes is straight. But Malachi has a secret he hasn't shared with anyone. He is actually bisexual and although known as a ladies man. His thoughts are constantly focused on his best friend's younger brother.
And when he finally gets his chance to kiss Jasper, he does, and a secret, forbidden romance ensues.
However, Malachi is in a band with Jesse and two other friends and Jesse has this big idea to get them seen by entering a competition in LA which if they win will launch their careers.
And it works.
Which means Malachi and Jasper have to say goodbye for good.
However, Malachi hopes that once the competition is over, they can find their way back together. But Jasper knows that will never happen, so he leaves for culinary school in Paris and tries to avoid all mentions of Malachi for the next three years.
Which he does until Jesse calls inviting Jasper to join the band on tour, and all those old feelings are reignited.
But how are Jasper and Malachi supposed to have a real relationship when they are sneaking around all the time and not being truthful with the people they love?
And with plenty of spicy moments, angst, and really likable characters. This story was a truly enjoyable read. That I couldn't put down and one I would happily recommend to all.
I couldn't stop reading Taste of Surrender. I love forbidden romances, and this one hit all the right spots.
As Jasper has a crush on his brother Jesse's best friend Malachi.
Who everyone, including Jasper and Jesse, believes is straight. But Malachi has a secret he hasn't shared with anyone. He is actually bisexual and although known as a ladies man. His thoughts are constantly focused on his best friend's younger brother.
And when he finally gets his chance to kiss Jasper, he does, and a secret, forbidden romance ensues.
However, Malachi is in a band with Jesse and two other friends and Jesse has this big idea to get them seen by entering a competition in LA which if they win will launch their careers.
And it works.
Which means Malachi and Jasper have to say goodbye for good.
However, Malachi hopes that once the competition is over, they can find their way back together. But Jasper knows that will never happen, so he leaves for culinary school in Paris and tries to avoid all mentions of Malachi for the next three years.
Which he does until Jesse calls inviting Jasper to join the band on tour, and all those old feelings are reignited.
But how are Jasper and Malachi supposed to have a real relationship when they are sneaking around all the time and not being truthful with the people they love?
And with plenty of spicy moments, angst, and really likable characters. This story was a truly enjoyable read. That I couldn't put down and one I would happily recommend to all.
July 22, 2024
The intertwining of this series and books is beautifully arranged. Even though the characters are not related and they are not necessarily set in the same city each time, a couple of the characters from the previous book make an appearance. This can be read as a standalone with no issues. Brother’s best friend, rock star player, secret relationship and second chances are all featured in this heartfelt story. Another must read book in this series.
August 10, 2024
Great read. The characters are very enjoyable. I was at the dnf point in the beginning because I am not a fan of the teen age romances but the book evolved fast and the story came together very well. Jasper and Malachi were just destined to be a great couple. Although there was very little angst to get them there this read was a pleasant mind cleanse after reading other high angst reads. This was a fantastic mellow transition into a very enjoyable couple.
February 18, 2025
This one was a tough one for me. I liked the brothers best friend, band and found family. But it seemed to drag on at times. I did like both boys following their dreams.
July 23, 2024
Can I just say that these books get better and better. Jasper and Malachi are so sweet especially for the best friends brother trope, I really enjoyed reading their story, they kept me enthralled from the first page to the last. I highly recommend reading this book and in my opinion it’s worth more than 5 stars 🌟
July 20, 2024
While m/m romance isn't my genre of choice, I really enjoy these authors. This book has been my favorite. Loved this friends to secret lovers romance
August 23, 2024
Fans self…….
What’s not to love? Rock star, best friends brother, secrets and explosive story. Jasper and Malachi are great characters who you are going to love. Secret crushes turn into full blown love story with a Little Rock and roll thrown in. I absolutely loved it and the characters. These authors gave us a fantastic read and I highly recommend it. Five blazing stars.
What’s not to love? Rock star, best friends brother, secrets and explosive story. Jasper and Malachi are great characters who you are going to love. Secret crushes turn into full blown love story with a Little Rock and roll thrown in. I absolutely loved it and the characters. These authors gave us a fantastic read and I highly recommend it. Five blazing stars.
August 20, 2024
4.5 stars
The latest book by this duo is their best to date, I was hooked quickly, and the pace was fast enough that I did not want to put it down. Jasper and Malachi’s journey is not easy, secrets, time. They have been friends since childhood. Their story pulls you in, and although sad at times, is worth it in the end.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review
The latest book by this duo is their best to date, I was hooked quickly, and the pace was fast enough that I did not want to put it down. Jasper and Malachi’s journey is not easy, secrets, time. They have been friends since childhood. Their story pulls you in, and although sad at times, is worth it in the end.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review
October 6, 2024
Great book!
I'm writing this review for United Indie Book blog..
There's just something about this book that will just make you fall in love with it. From the minute I started reading,I couldn't put it down and I was sucked into their world and love story. Jasper and Malachi have such a sweetness that surrounds them. Yes that sounds since Malachi is a rock star but they gravitate towards each other.
They met, crushed on each other, and secretly fooled around with each other. Years have passed since that time and the moment they see each other again,it's like time didn't stop and they have been together the whole time. It was beautiful.
Oh and they have a hard time keeping their hands and mouth off one another.
There's paparazzi and drama that follow them but they handle it as one big loving family that they are. It was a great book!
I'm writing this review for United Indie Book blog..
There's just something about this book that will just make you fall in love with it. From the minute I started reading,I couldn't put it down and I was sucked into their world and love story. Jasper and Malachi have such a sweetness that surrounds them. Yes that sounds since Malachi is a rock star but they gravitate towards each other.
They met, crushed on each other, and secretly fooled around with each other. Years have passed since that time and the moment they see each other again,it's like time didn't stop and they have been together the whole time. It was beautiful.
Oh and they have a hard time keeping their hands and mouth off one another.
There's paparazzi and drama that follow them but they handle it as one big loving family that they are. It was a great book!
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