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Wicked Warrens #5
Bending the Rules
"A little Southern charm and a Yes, Mistress goes a long way."
Rex Samson is at the top of his game. His business is booming, his family loves him, and there s no woman or man he can t charm. Until he meets Natalie Wielder, a tough-as-nails city planner. She s firm, sexy, and exactly what he needs a woman to put him in his place. She s also all work and no play, and that won t do at all.
Nat has better things to do than play with the mayor s golden boy, but orders are orders. Accompanying him to a mandatory social function, she s shocked that she thoroughly enjoys herself. The light-hearted Rex likes the finer and kinkier things in life but freaky, no-gender-barred sex is a definite no-no in the conservative Deep South.
When Rex hands over the reins in bed, she can t resist taking them. And soon she s breaking rule number one: no dating the enemy.
Before long, she realizes there s no living without him. But Rex s kinky proclivities mirror hers neither of which is good for her career and she s forced to figure out what s really important. Her rules, or love?
Rex Samson is at the top of his game. His business is booming, his family loves him, and there s no woman or man he can t charm. Until he meets Natalie Wielder, a tough-as-nails city planner. She s firm, sexy, and exactly what he needs a woman to put him in his place. She s also all work and no play, and that won t do at all.
Nat has better things to do than play with the mayor s golden boy, but orders are orders. Accompanying him to a mandatory social function, she s shocked that she thoroughly enjoys herself. The light-hearted Rex likes the finer and kinkier things in life but freaky, no-gender-barred sex is a definite no-no in the conservative Deep South.
When Rex hands over the reins in bed, she can t resist taking them. And soon she s breaking rule number one: no dating the enemy.
Before long, she realizes there s no living without him. But Rex s kinky proclivities mirror hers neither of which is good for her career and she s forced to figure out what s really important. Her rules, or love?
157 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2014
159 people are currently reading
422 people want to read
About the author
Marie Harte
199 books2,404 followersImportant:: Marie Harte is NOT active on GoodReads, so to contact her, please use her website at marieharte.com.
Caffeine addict, boy referee, and romance aficionado, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Marie Harte has over 100 books published with more constantly on the way. She’s a confessed bibliophile and devotee of action movies. Whether hiking in Central Oregon, biking around town, or hanging at the local tea shop, she’s constantly plotting to give everyone a happily ever after. Visit http://marieharte.com and fall in love.
Caffeine addict, boy referee, and romance aficionado, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Marie Harte has over 100 books published with more constantly on the way. She’s a confessed bibliophile and devotee of action movies. Whether hiking in Central Oregon, biking around town, or hanging at the local tea shop, she’s constantly plotting to give everyone a happily ever after. Visit http://marieharte.com and fall in love.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
May 16, 2021
I did not like this story as much as the other one I read in the series.
Both characters are nice with depth, etc. But I had an issue with the portrayal of the relationship.
Let me be more specific, because it wasn't the relationship I had an issue with, but the attitudes, especially Rex's.
First of all, she asked him not call her Sugar and he kept doing it. Then she turned him down on the date (In the first chapter no less) and he kept pressing the issue. I hate that kind of crap.
Also, I think some of the shenanigans they got up to in the club pressed the boundaries of consent in the fact that there were too many uneven secrets.
Both characters are nice with depth, etc. But I had an issue with the portrayal of the relationship.
Let me be more specific, because it wasn't the relationship I had an issue with, but the attitudes, especially Rex's.
First of all, she asked him not call her Sugar and he kept doing it. Then she turned him down on the date (In the first chapter no less) and he kept pressing the issue. I hate that kind of crap.
Also, I think some of the shenanigans they got up to in the club pressed the boundaries of consent in the fact that there were too many uneven secrets.
January 14, 2019
Woman on Top!
I absolutely loved the twist in this story of the woman being the dominant. Rex was a beautifully submissive, yet strong and sexy man. Nat was a brilliant strong woman, faults and all. Glad to see more of Brian and Faith too!
I absolutely loved the twist in this story of the woman being the dominant. Rex was a beautifully submissive, yet strong and sexy man. Nat was a brilliant strong woman, faults and all. Glad to see more of Brian and Faith too!
December 13, 2023
Bending the Rules
3.5 Stars
Rex Samson has never met a woman (or man) he could not charm whether in the boardroom or the bedroom. That is until he encounters Natalie Wielder, the city planner, who has no problem saying no. Nat works hard for a living and has a strict policy of never mixing business and pleasure, but she longs to finally meet someone who can accept her for who she is and what she enjoys. Is Rex that man?
Unlike the previous installments, which suffered from the shorter format, Rex and Nat's characters are well developed with detailed backstories. Their romance also builds more slowly and realistically. The descriptions is also somewhat misleading as Rex isn't nearly as submissive as it suggests and despite the sex club scenes, there isn't all that much kink involved - .
The potential for conflict exists but never fully materialize as both Nat and Rex behave like adults and talk through their issues, which is very refreshing after Brian and Faith's more angsty interactions.
Overall, this is a fun ending to the series and I will definitely read more of Harte's works.
3.5 Stars
Rex Samson has never met a woman (or man) he could not charm whether in the boardroom or the bedroom. That is until he encounters Natalie Wielder, the city planner, who has no problem saying no. Nat works hard for a living and has a strict policy of never mixing business and pleasure, but she longs to finally meet someone who can accept her for who she is and what she enjoys. Is Rex that man?
Unlike the previous installments, which suffered from the shorter format, Rex and Nat's characters are well developed with detailed backstories. Their romance also builds more slowly and realistically. The descriptions is also somewhat misleading as Rex isn't nearly as submissive as it suggests and despite the sex club scenes, there isn't all that much kink involved - .
The potential for conflict exists but never fully materialize as both Nat and Rex behave like adults and talk through their issues, which is very refreshing after Brian and Faith's more angsty interactions.
Overall, this is a fun ending to the series and I will definitely read more of Harte's works.
December 8, 2018
3.5*
Frothy and fluffy and fun. Sometimes that's all I want to read.
Frothy and fluffy and fun. Sometimes that's all I want to read.
June 1, 2025
In this last of a series book, Rex falls hard for Nat and little do they know of their mutual kinks. Through Rex trying to persuade Nat into liking/loving him as much as he does her, there comes a potential threat to Nat's job due to her extracurricular proclivities being found out.
This book read very quickly, was insta-lovey, and not much else really happened (aside from Rex's parents, Nat's family, and mutual friends all saying that they approved of this match). It was a meh book for a series with little excitement.
This book read very quickly, was insta-lovey, and not much else really happened (aside from Rex's parents, Nat's family, and mutual friends all saying that they approved of this match). It was a meh book for a series with little excitement.
April 18, 2019
**AUDIOBOOK**
So, if you have enjoyed the other books in this series, this one will be no different to you. I wouldn't say it was bad, but I wouldn't say it was amazing either. Same as the last couple of books...sex club, low angst, etc etc. This book is not one that is intense, so if you are looking for a book that will wholly captivate you, then I would say to keep on looking. This was a nice easy read with some kink in it.
So, if you have enjoyed the other books in this series, this one will be no different to you. I wouldn't say it was bad, but I wouldn't say it was amazing either. Same as the last couple of books...sex club, low angst, etc etc. This book is not one that is intense, so if you are looking for a book that will wholly captivate you, then I would say to keep on looking. This was a nice easy read with some kink in it.
February 20, 2019
I just LOVED this series. The characters and the banter Marie Harte writes in this series was just spot on for me. This is why I love her books.
The first two books were great and HOT but then, books 3-5 she cranked up the kink and the stories took on another dimension.
Rex was hot southern gentleman and Natalie was a pain in the ass yankee pistol, fun reading.
The first two books were great and HOT but then, books 3-5 she cranked up the kink and the stories took on another dimension.
Rex was hot southern gentleman and Natalie was a pain in the ass yankee pistol, fun reading.
May 13, 2019
So wickedly good
Well did I love Rex or what? Whew that was a great read and I loved both Nat and Rex who were the perfect couple. Gonna miss the series and would have liked to see Nat’s brothers story. Ah well going to reread the next series.
Well did I love Rex or what? Whew that was a great read and I loved both Nat and Rex who were the perfect couple. Gonna miss the series and would have liked to see Nat’s brothers story. Ah well going to reread the next series.
November 27, 2018
Red and Natalie
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2019
Now I'm sad this is the last book in the series. As usual it was sexy exciting and worth every minute of it. Though I would like to know more about the Wielders and what they're gonna do.
April 30, 2019
*thumbs up emoji*
July 3, 2019
Audio book July 2019 Narrator Emma Wilder
September 10, 2019
Just wow!
January 2, 2020
Okay, not great. The audiobook felt awkward.
June 14, 2020
I thought this one was cute. Rex was delightful with his southern charm. And I liked how strong Natalie was. Definitely a fan of the pair. Good end to the series.
November 23, 2020
This was probably my favorite in the whole series. I think I prefer when the conflict is an outside source and not from within the couple.
April 15, 2024
Lots of romantic moments with some spice mixed it a great combo together.
July 5, 2014
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
5 STARS
I’ve been reading Marie Harte’s Wicked Warrens series since its inception and I’ve enjoyed them all, but some have stood out more than others and Bending The Rules is right at the top of the heap with Enjoying The Show. Between the verbal sparring between the hero and heroine which was more like foreplay, a heroine not afraid to take charge in all things, a man willing to share every bit of his sexual kinks, the mutual respect, some smoking hot sex scenes, and two individuals blindsided by love they hope to find but never expected made Bending The Rules one exemplary book.
I flat out fell head over heels in love with Rex Samson, the hero in this book; a Southern accent sweeter than the tea he drinks, one hundred percent all man with one hell of a kinky side, esteemed businessman, dutiful son, great friend, decisive, and flat out sexy. I respected the fact that he realized right away that the heroine was going to need to come to terms with them slowly and he was a very patient guy. That’s not to say he didn’t give himself opportunities to get to her, but he let her take the lead. I admire him so much for not being afraid of what he needs sexually and not being afraid to show and tell Natalie.
Natalie Wielder was a little tough to figure out but despite that I admired her dedication to her job and family and the fact that once she got to know Rex she had no problems with his sexual desires. It was fun watching her reaction to Rex’s parents and holding her own with them and falling a little bit in love with them in the process. I respect the hell out of the fact that when a problem arises that could cost her her job she doesn’t blame Rex (even though he blames himself) and she is very level headed about things.
The beginning of Rex and Natalie’s relationship begins pretty unconventionally but in a way that fits them. As it progresses, it was interesting to watch them discover everything that made them the people they are and the respect that grew between them. This was an adult relationship and it was truly a breath of fresh air, yes there was some conflict but it was from an outside source and they both did an admirable job of working through it while respecting each other’s wishes. This is an extremely sexual book and it contains many elements of a BDSM relationship, but it really is so much more than that as these are two people who are committed to finding the right partner for a lifetime.
I really can’t recommend this book highly enough; Marie Harte has once again written a fantastic story that is filled with superb dialog, an entertaining plot, some hot and kinky sex, and a cast of characters you can’t help but love.
5 STARS
I’ve been reading Marie Harte’s Wicked Warrens series since its inception and I’ve enjoyed them all, but some have stood out more than others and Bending The Rules is right at the top of the heap with Enjoying The Show. Between the verbal sparring between the hero and heroine which was more like foreplay, a heroine not afraid to take charge in all things, a man willing to share every bit of his sexual kinks, the mutual respect, some smoking hot sex scenes, and two individuals blindsided by love they hope to find but never expected made Bending The Rules one exemplary book.
I flat out fell head over heels in love with Rex Samson, the hero in this book; a Southern accent sweeter than the tea he drinks, one hundred percent all man with one hell of a kinky side, esteemed businessman, dutiful son, great friend, decisive, and flat out sexy. I respected the fact that he realized right away that the heroine was going to need to come to terms with them slowly and he was a very patient guy. That’s not to say he didn’t give himself opportunities to get to her, but he let her take the lead. I admire him so much for not being afraid of what he needs sexually and not being afraid to show and tell Natalie.
Natalie Wielder was a little tough to figure out but despite that I admired her dedication to her job and family and the fact that once she got to know Rex she had no problems with his sexual desires. It was fun watching her reaction to Rex’s parents and holding her own with them and falling a little bit in love with them in the process. I respect the hell out of the fact that when a problem arises that could cost her her job she doesn’t blame Rex (even though he blames himself) and she is very level headed about things.
The beginning of Rex and Natalie’s relationship begins pretty unconventionally but in a way that fits them. As it progresses, it was interesting to watch them discover everything that made them the people they are and the respect that grew between them. This was an adult relationship and it was truly a breath of fresh air, yes there was some conflict but it was from an outside source and they both did an admirable job of working through it while respecting each other’s wishes. This is an extremely sexual book and it contains many elements of a BDSM relationship, but it really is so much more than that as these are two people who are committed to finding the right partner for a lifetime.
I really can’t recommend this book highly enough; Marie Harte has once again written a fantastic story that is filled with superb dialog, an entertaining plot, some hot and kinky sex, and a cast of characters you can’t help but love.
August 6, 2016
I've loved the WICKED WARREN series ever since I read 'Enjoying the Show' ~ I just can't get enough of those boys and their friends ~ so I was beyond excited when I got a chance to read 'BENDING THE RULES' pre-release, but I was also kinda sad that this is the last book that Marie is writing in the series, but gods, she finished with a bang!!!
Marie gave us great characters as ever - and we had the welcome appearances of some our old favourites!!!
I was taken with Rex when we met him in Brian & Faith's book 'Making The Grade' so when I found out that this was gonna be his story I was delighted!!! He is one hot, sexy, smooth talking fella!!! I'd bend the rules for him any day!!! lol.....
Nat was a spunky, sharp witted, career focused gal with a sexy hidden side that she worried would affect her job should anyone ever find out that she wasn't as straigh-laced as everyone thought!!
Rex was intrigued by Nat from the start but she wasn't too impressed with him... Things change however after she spends the evening with him at a work social event and the attraction between the two is evident. The more time she spends with him the more she wants to break her rules - but can she or can Rex work his magic and convince her to let go?!?!
Packed with heat, kink & passion 'BENDING THE RULES' is a smokin' hot, sexy and entertaining read ~ just what we've come to expect with the series! I devoured it in one sitting, I just couldn't put it down!
If you're a fan of the series, this final book won't disappoint. If you haven't met the Warren Brothers yet you should get started on the books now..... you'll be glad you did!!!!
Marie gave us great characters as ever - and we had the welcome appearances of some our old favourites!!!
I was taken with Rex when we met him in Brian & Faith's book 'Making The Grade' so when I found out that this was gonna be his story I was delighted!!! He is one hot, sexy, smooth talking fella!!! I'd bend the rules for him any day!!! lol.....
Nat was a spunky, sharp witted, career focused gal with a sexy hidden side that she worried would affect her job should anyone ever find out that she wasn't as straigh-laced as everyone thought!!
Rex was intrigued by Nat from the start but she wasn't too impressed with him... Things change however after she spends the evening with him at a work social event and the attraction between the two is evident. The more time she spends with him the more she wants to break her rules - but can she or can Rex work his magic and convince her to let go?!?!
Packed with heat, kink & passion 'BENDING THE RULES' is a smokin' hot, sexy and entertaining read ~ just what we've come to expect with the series! I devoured it in one sitting, I just couldn't put it down!
If you're a fan of the series, this final book won't disappoint. If you haven't met the Warren Brothers yet you should get started on the books now..... you'll be glad you did!!!!
August 6, 2014
Night Owl Review
****4 1/2 stars****
Original Review Published here: http://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Rev...
Bending the Rules is the fifth book in the Wicked Warrens series by Marie Harte. This book can be read and enjoyed as a standalone novel but some of the characters found in this book are in some of the prior books.
Rex Samson is a southern man who uses his southern accent to his advantage. He is a hot and sexy man who seems to get whatever he wants until he meets Natalie. She is the first challenge in his life and that intrigues him. What I loved about Rex is he was a submissive in the bedroom only. He could take charge in all the other aspects of his life.
Natalie Wielder is the city planner who is new to town. She is one tough lady, keeping those that work with her in line and on time. Its apparent that while she has had kinky thoughts she never acted on it until given the chance with Rex. I loved how she was so straight-laced at work and kinky in the bedroom.
The connection between Natalie and Rex is blistering. I enjoyed seeing Rex challenged by someone. He had to work for Natalie’s attention and affection. He is so used to getting things handed to him it’s a wakeup call to him. I think that’s what makes the connection deeper between them. The sex scenes were scorching.
I found this book is well written. The story was very believable. The main characters and the secondary characters are interesting and appealing. I enjoyed the ending of the story immensely even if it was a bit predicable. Overall, this was a great story. I will be keeping an eye out for the next book in the series.
****4 1/2 stars****
Original Review Published here: http://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Rev...
Bending the Rules is the fifth book in the Wicked Warrens series by Marie Harte. This book can be read and enjoyed as a standalone novel but some of the characters found in this book are in some of the prior books.
Rex Samson is a southern man who uses his southern accent to his advantage. He is a hot and sexy man who seems to get whatever he wants until he meets Natalie. She is the first challenge in his life and that intrigues him. What I loved about Rex is he was a submissive in the bedroom only. He could take charge in all the other aspects of his life.
Natalie Wielder is the city planner who is new to town. She is one tough lady, keeping those that work with her in line and on time. Its apparent that while she has had kinky thoughts she never acted on it until given the chance with Rex. I loved how she was so straight-laced at work and kinky in the bedroom.
The connection between Natalie and Rex is blistering. I enjoyed seeing Rex challenged by someone. He had to work for Natalie’s attention and affection. He is so used to getting things handed to him it’s a wakeup call to him. I think that’s what makes the connection deeper between them. The sex scenes were scorching.
I found this book is well written. The story was very believable. The main characters and the secondary characters are interesting and appealing. I enjoyed the ending of the story immensely even if it was a bit predicable. Overall, this was a great story. I will be keeping an eye out for the next book in the series.
August 7, 2014
The Wicked Warrens series has been a treat from start to finish, and no one does sexy Southern charm like Rex Samson.
While Rex has always been known for his love of both men and women; he definitely wants to settle down with a female. But Rex has no plans for that to happen anytime soon, even though all his buddies have found their special someone.
Natalie Weilder has worked hard to achieve her position as the City Planner; she has no time for a social life, and does not suffer fools lightly.
So when a smooth talking Rex essentially blackmails her into a date that’s not a date, sparks are sure to fly and chemistry that is not at all welcomed by Nat, will sizzle and burn.
The verbal banter between these lovable, larger than life characters, sets the foundation for a wonderful, fun filled, if sometimes tense and gritty story that does the series proud.
I’m sorry to see the series end, but enjoyed every single page of this book.
While Rex has always been known for his love of both men and women; he definitely wants to settle down with a female. But Rex has no plans for that to happen anytime soon, even though all his buddies have found their special someone.
Natalie Weilder has worked hard to achieve her position as the City Planner; she has no time for a social life, and does not suffer fools lightly.
So when a smooth talking Rex essentially blackmails her into a date that’s not a date, sparks are sure to fly and chemistry that is not at all welcomed by Nat, will sizzle and burn.
The verbal banter between these lovable, larger than life characters, sets the foundation for a wonderful, fun filled, if sometimes tense and gritty story that does the series proud.
I’m sorry to see the series end, but enjoyed every single page of this book.
April 4, 2016
This was such a fun story to read! I loved that Nat was the dominant one in the story and the Rex was the submissive. They shared some really steamy love scenes (sometimes with extra players). The sexual attraction is there from their first meeting and the way the story played out made for an entertaining read. I particularly liked that while Rex was submissive in the bedroom, he is no pushover and is equally dominant and willing to stand up to Nat when necessary. Enjoyed every minute of this story - 5 stars! Can't wait to read more of the Warrens adventures!
January 1, 2021
Enjoyable story with fun characters.
Just not my cup of tea with the call me mistress thing and two men together.
Really nice having everyone be a part of this story though.
I have owned this book for ages. I have read and reviewed this book before but reviews from the back of the books are missing.
No hardship to read about these lovely characters again through Kindle Unlimited.
Just not my cup of tea with the call me mistress thing and two men together.
Really nice having everyone be a part of this story though.
I have owned this book for ages. I have read and reviewed this book before but reviews from the back of the books are missing.
No hardship to read about these lovely characters again through Kindle Unlimited.
August 1, 2014
Certainly the stories of Warren brothers were surely more nice, interesting and exciting but also those of other protagonists are enjoyable as this of Rex and Nat.
Read
October 19, 2015Loved Rex. And Nat, even though she's so hard to everyone... it's part of her charm :)
August 1, 2021
It's probably the best one in the series so far. I really enjoyed this one!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews