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Banjaxed #1
Pistol
Stephanie Drake, or Steph as she’s known to her friends, is lost. Somewhere between the end of her childhood, and the day her loser of a boyfriend called it quits on their so-called relationship, she forgot who she was. She lives each day in a perpetual routine, stuck in the confines of her normal, safe life. If she doesn’t take a risk, she won’t get hurt—right?
Then she meets Pete—or Pistol to his friends.
He’s blunt, arrogant, and straight forward about what he wants. And as it turns out, he wants her.
Should she take a walk on the wild side, risk being burnt, and lay her heart on the line? Something in the way he makes her feel tells her ‘yes’, but her friends aren’t so sure this emotionally shut-off man has a place in her life. Why should she listen to them, though? After all, they don’t know a thing about him ...
... do they?
Then she meets Pete—or Pistol to his friends.
He’s blunt, arrogant, and straight forward about what he wants. And as it turns out, he wants her.
Should she take a walk on the wild side, risk being burnt, and lay her heart on the line? Something in the way he makes her feel tells her ‘yes’, but her friends aren’t so sure this emotionally shut-off man has a place in her life. Why should she listen to them, though? After all, they don’t know a thing about him ...
... do they?
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2014
67 people are currently reading
1396 people want to read
About the author
Max Henry
52 books1,011 followersFacebook -> http://bit.ly/2F4XrG3
Instagram -> http://bit.ly/2ruERF3
Newsletter -> http://www.maxhenryauthor.com/newsletter
Born and raised in Canterbury, New Zealand, Max now resides with her family in beautiful and sunny Queensland, Australia. Life with two young children can be hectic at times and, although she may not write as often as she would like, Max wouldn’t change a thing.
An avid lover of stories from a young age, she enjoys nothing more than to get lost in the pages while the characters dictate what direction she takes. Her favourite genre to write is new adult and the events in her stories may or may not be related to real life experiences (only she will ever know for sure).
In her down time, Max can be found at her local gym brainstorming through a session with the weights. If not, she’s probably out drooling over one of many classic cars on show that she wishes she owned.
Instagram -> http://bit.ly/2ruERF3
Newsletter -> http://www.maxhenryauthor.com/newsletter
Born and raised in Canterbury, New Zealand, Max now resides with her family in beautiful and sunny Queensland, Australia. Life with two young children can be hectic at times and, although she may not write as often as she would like, Max wouldn’t change a thing.
An avid lover of stories from a young age, she enjoys nothing more than to get lost in the pages while the characters dictate what direction she takes. Her favourite genre to write is new adult and the events in her stories may or may not be related to real life experiences (only she will ever know for sure).
In her down time, Max can be found at her local gym brainstorming through a session with the weights. If not, she’s probably out drooling over one of many classic cars on show that she wishes she owned.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
May 7, 2014
*A kind note to the author and readers: these are just my thoughts and my thoughts alone. I hope you don’t get offended or discouraged as it is not my intention to do so. Everyone will have their own opinions and critiques and these are mine. I am one person, one voice so if you end up loving this book then great for you!! I’m happy you liked it. But, sadly this book just did not click for me.*
To be perfectly honest, I struggled a lot throughout this read. I found the characters’ relationship toxic and constantly was trying to figure out the point of the read. Along so, the pacing was another factor as it was slow/draggy for me and made everything less climatic and lacking punch.
As for the characters, well...Stephanie "Steph" and Peter “Piston”’s relationship was kind of a hit and run for me. I just did not connect with it. They didn’t seem compatible my eyes and lacked chemistry aside from physical attraction for one another.
*sighs* I'm sorry, I absolutely hate writing reviews when the author kindly offers to provide me a copy and I just didn’t get what they were trying to convey with the plot and characters. I could have been just me though.
Again, I’m so, so sorry!! Please don’t hate me everyone!!
*I received an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!*
April 9, 2014
My favourite book to write - hands down.
May 13, 2014
I was lucky enough to beta read Pistol for Max Henry, so I was afforded to absolute pleasure of seeing the growth of this story.
Now for those who know me, know I love my bad boys, my damaged anti hero's, I adore my alpha's with their troubled pasts, what can I say I suffer from the Christian Grey effect - but Pistol (Pete) is no CG, he's the real deal. He's shady, he's broken, he works outside the law, he's the epitome of the kind of guy your parents dread you bringing home. Pistol is world weary, with the power and ability to hurt those who do wrong by him and possesses the street smarts and know how to get away with it.
Steph - our heroine, is blind sighted when her boyfriend of two years abruptly ends the relationship, despite her outward strength she is shaken. Meeting Pete causes her to question things, question herself, her behaviour, her life. Steph's best friend despite Cass is seemingly always there, but she is hiding a past she would prefer to keep secret. Cass may appear to be Steph's biggest supporter but the toxic friendship she provides only add's more doubt and confusion to her life.
Pistol grabs hold of you and doesn't let go, its fast paced and action packed, this is equal measures of scorching hot sex, action packed adrenaline raising scenes and tender moments when you just pray for Steph and Pete to get their chance for the HEA. Full of twists and turns it kept it hooked and I can't wait to see where Max Henry takes these two next
Now for those who know me, know I love my bad boys, my damaged anti hero's, I adore my alpha's with their troubled pasts, what can I say I suffer from the Christian Grey effect - but Pistol (Pete) is no CG, he's the real deal. He's shady, he's broken, he works outside the law, he's the epitome of the kind of guy your parents dread you bringing home. Pistol is world weary, with the power and ability to hurt those who do wrong by him and possesses the street smarts and know how to get away with it.
Steph - our heroine, is blind sighted when her boyfriend of two years abruptly ends the relationship, despite her outward strength she is shaken. Meeting Pete causes her to question things, question herself, her behaviour, her life. Steph's best friend despite Cass is seemingly always there, but she is hiding a past she would prefer to keep secret. Cass may appear to be Steph's biggest supporter but the toxic friendship she provides only add's more doubt and confusion to her life.
Pistol grabs hold of you and doesn't let go, its fast paced and action packed, this is equal measures of scorching hot sex, action packed adrenaline raising scenes and tender moments when you just pray for Steph and Pete to get their chance for the HEA. Full of twists and turns it kept it hooked and I can't wait to see where Max Henry takes these two next
Want to read
January 13, 2017
FREE: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU
Stephanie Drake, or Steph as she’s known to her friends, is lost. Somewhere between the end of her childhood, and the day her loser of a boyfriend called it quits on their so-called relationship, she forgot who she was. She lives each day in a perpetual routine, stuck in the confines of her normal, safe life. If she doesn’t take a risk, she won’t get hurt—right?
Then she meets Pete—or Pistol to his friends.
He’s blunt, arrogant, and straight forward about what he wants. And as it turns out, he wants her.
Should she take a walk on the wild side, risk being burnt, and lay her heart on the line? Something in the way he makes her feel tells her ‘yes’, but her friends aren’t so sure this emotionally shut-off man has a place in her life. Why should she listen to them, though? After all, they don’t know a thing about him ...
... do they?
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July 3, 2014
Pistol
by Max Henry
Reviewed By Ang from https://www.facebook.com/PNRBookLover...
I was lucky enough to beta read Pistol for Max Henry
Pistol is a story about Pete and Steph. Pete and Irish, Tatted, Hot Dangerous man who has moved to austrlaia to start a new life...
But its a little harder then he thought it would be. Then He meets Steph...
Steph is young and just out of a relationship the dude who was a ASS Hat, and treated her like shit.
Pete and Steph relationship is not perfect but yet what relationship is...
This is a mixed story with Dark and Light moments , Sex Love and Kink
You get Sucked into there story because you want to no more..
Cliff hanger..Yes.. twist and turns yes..
Well Written and will keep you on the edge of your seat have your squrming on there as well
Humor a little and there is a Bad Boy with Tats and Piercings.. with a good girl who is looking for more..
** Romance, A Very bitter Sweet one ✔
** Awesome Characters ✔
** Smexy time ✔✔
** Action and Plot ✔✔
** Could not put it down✔✔
** Wanted more when it was finished ✔✔
Recommend to everyone
by Max Henry
Reviewed By Ang from https://www.facebook.com/PNRBookLover...
I was lucky enough to beta read Pistol for Max Henry
Pistol is a story about Pete and Steph. Pete and Irish, Tatted, Hot Dangerous man who has moved to austrlaia to start a new life...
But its a little harder then he thought it would be. Then He meets Steph...
Steph is young and just out of a relationship the dude who was a ASS Hat, and treated her like shit.
Pete and Steph relationship is not perfect but yet what relationship is...
This is a mixed story with Dark and Light moments , Sex Love and Kink
You get Sucked into there story because you want to no more..
Cliff hanger..Yes.. twist and turns yes..
Well Written and will keep you on the edge of your seat have your squrming on there as well
Humor a little and there is a Bad Boy with Tats and Piercings.. with a good girl who is looking for more..
** Romance, A Very bitter Sweet one ✔
** Awesome Characters ✔
** Smexy time ✔✔
** Action and Plot ✔✔
** Could not put it down✔✔
** Wanted more when it was finished ✔✔
Recommend to everyone
February 13, 2018
I couldn't get into this one, the characters weren't fleshed-out and the plot seemed a little disjointed. I think it says a lot for much this author's writing has improved in the last 4/5 years as I've enjoyed all her more recent work.
February 9, 2017
I enjoyed reading the beginning of this series. It gave me a glimpse as to who Pistol (Pete) and Steph are and had my mind thinking as to what could happen in the next books.
April 26, 2016
It was so-so, which is a shame because it sounded really good.
August 14, 2015
The constant tug of war between the two characters really turned me off.
July 2, 2015
3.5 stars will be venturing into the rest of the series as I enjoyed this authors writing ;D
September 25, 2017
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Three and a half stars for me. I didn't connect with any of the characters in this book but I read and explored them for what they were.
A little too much self hate/low self esteem for my current mood.
I can't put my finger on a specific reason I'm hesitant to read more of this series. I'm not saying no but more not right now.
I have different titles from this author I think I'll read before making my mind up about this series.
Three and a half stars for me. I didn't connect with any of the characters in this book but I read and explored them for what they were.
A little too much self hate/low self esteem for my current mood.
I can't put my finger on a specific reason I'm hesitant to read more of this series. I'm not saying no but more not right now.
I have different titles from this author I think I'll read before making my mind up about this series.
November 22, 2017
It was a great read. It had interesting characters and a story line that keeps you guessing what will happen next. Rated very good
October 27, 2018
I like that the relationship gets a chance to develop and Stephanie thinks about real consequences. I'm going to give the next one a read.
Want to read
December 13, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (12/13/2022)! 🎁
May 2, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
I will admit that I was drawn in from the blurb and cover on this one. Everything about the cover just really spoke to me and I absolutely loved it. But after reading the blurb, I thought that this story was going to be one I really enjoyed. Sadly, this book was so much different than the blurb led me to believe and I really think that the blurb was misleading. There will be a lot of people that I think really like this book, but unfortunately this wasn't what I was personally expecting.
Stephanie Drake has been living her life just going through the motions. Her boyfriend broke up with her and she never takes any risks or ventures out of the known and comfortable life that she has. All that changes when she meets Pete "Pistol" O'Malley. He's sexy and mysterious with an Irish accent. He comes off arrogant and isn't afraid to be blunt with anyone. She feels herself drawn to him and thinks maybe its time that she shook up her life a bit. However all of her friends warn her away from him, and the more time she is around him the more wary of him she becomes. She can't stay away from him, and he can't stay away from her though. The more that they fight what is between them, the more that they want each other. Are Pete and Stephanie right for each other, or will the risk of anything between them be too great for them to take a chance on?
Pete and Stephanie's relationship was really confusing to me. I thought that they were pretty toxic together and I couldn't ever really seem to get a grasp on what was happening. They were so hot and cold, and I really didn't understand Pete's actions at all. He had a past and he also was involved with a lot of things that were dangerous. I just didn't really get why he felt the need to play with Stephanie so much. I mean I understand that he knew she was into that in the bedroom and that is fine. But outside the bedroom, he was so cold and calculated and a lot of the time he was a flat out jerk to her. I just didn't get the draw for her besides the physical. I thought that these two really just didn't fit, and I was never able to connect with them as characters. They worked on a physical level, but to me anything more than that just wasn't believable.
I also felt like the story was slow and tended to drag in several parts. I honestly felt like I had no clue what was going on or what this story was about for the majority of this book. Maybe it was me, but I guess I just didn't get it. I don't think I ever truly understood what this one was about, and then at the end there is a cliffhanger. I felt like it was abrupt and just sort of stopped. I did like that the author gave us both POVs though, and it was good to see what they were each thinking or feeling. I thought that Henry did a great job of meshing them together and they blended well. Each POV was clear and easily distinguished, which isn't always the case with a dual POV book. I think that there are a lot of people who will really be able to get into this book, and enjoy it. But this book just wasn't for me.
**ARC Provided by Love Between The Sheets Promotions**
I will admit that I was drawn in from the blurb and cover on this one. Everything about the cover just really spoke to me and I absolutely loved it. But after reading the blurb, I thought that this story was going to be one I really enjoyed. Sadly, this book was so much different than the blurb led me to believe and I really think that the blurb was misleading. There will be a lot of people that I think really like this book, but unfortunately this wasn't what I was personally expecting.
Stephanie Drake has been living her life just going through the motions. Her boyfriend broke up with her and she never takes any risks or ventures out of the known and comfortable life that she has. All that changes when she meets Pete "Pistol" O'Malley. He's sexy and mysterious with an Irish accent. He comes off arrogant and isn't afraid to be blunt with anyone. She feels herself drawn to him and thinks maybe its time that she shook up her life a bit. However all of her friends warn her away from him, and the more time she is around him the more wary of him she becomes. She can't stay away from him, and he can't stay away from her though. The more that they fight what is between them, the more that they want each other. Are Pete and Stephanie right for each other, or will the risk of anything between them be too great for them to take a chance on?
Pete and Stephanie's relationship was really confusing to me. I thought that they were pretty toxic together and I couldn't ever really seem to get a grasp on what was happening. They were so hot and cold, and I really didn't understand Pete's actions at all. He had a past and he also was involved with a lot of things that were dangerous. I just didn't really get why he felt the need to play with Stephanie so much. I mean I understand that he knew she was into that in the bedroom and that is fine. But outside the bedroom, he was so cold and calculated and a lot of the time he was a flat out jerk to her. I just didn't get the draw for her besides the physical. I thought that these two really just didn't fit, and I was never able to connect with them as characters. They worked on a physical level, but to me anything more than that just wasn't believable.
I also felt like the story was slow and tended to drag in several parts. I honestly felt like I had no clue what was going on or what this story was about for the majority of this book. Maybe it was me, but I guess I just didn't get it. I don't think I ever truly understood what this one was about, and then at the end there is a cliffhanger. I felt like it was abrupt and just sort of stopped. I did like that the author gave us both POVs though, and it was good to see what they were each thinking or feeling. I thought that Henry did a great job of meshing them together and they blended well. Each POV was clear and easily distinguished, which isn't always the case with a dual POV book. I think that there are a lot of people who will really be able to get into this book, and enjoy it. But this book just wasn't for me.
**ARC Provided by Love Between The Sheets Promotions**
May 26, 2014
reviewed by Kota for Kota's Book Kollection
Pistol is the story of Steph and Pete. Steph is a young lady fresh out of a relationship with a bloke who is an arrogant arse and treated her poorly. While she tries to come to terms with her life after this relationship and who she has become, she starts to question her place in the ‘normal’ world of her peers.
Pete is an Irish rogue – of the hot, tatted and dangerous kind. He has immigrated to Australia to start a clean life, but it is harder than he anticipated. Then he meets Steph and it becomes a whole lot more complicated.
Steph has some friends that she leans on to help guide her, such as Cassie and Ivan. When she starts to rebuke their views on Pete though, these friendships become strained.
Max Henry has created characters that draw you in. Pete starts out like a hot alpha who makes your insides squirm, he then shows his colours that range from bastard to arsehole, yet at the same time, we are introduced to his broken soul, and his past that has tainted his heart. His inability to communicate how important Steph becomes to him is as frustrating for the reader as it is for Pete.
Steph quickly learns that her needs and wants do not fit the stereotype set by her friends and family. She is a little left of centre and unique, and it is not until she understands Pete that little bit more, that she starts to truly embrace that side of her personality.
As a reader I was initially sceptical of this story – what was its point of difference? would I really engage with the characters who initially seem superficial? Would the instalust be a turn off for me? Before I knew it, I was at 70% in the book and at that point I could not stop – I had to know what happened.
This story is a part of a series, so be aware going in – all is not resolved in this story. Are we kept wondering? Definitely… Is this a good or a bad cliff hanger? I am undecided, mainly because where the story ends has the potential to turn everything on its head, and I am not sure I can wait to find out what happens.
I found that this was not a perfect book. Ms Henry has mixed darkness and light, sex, love and kink and sometimes that mix was seamless and other times not. The introduction of kink between Steph and Pete seemed somewhat unbelievable, but the rationale behind the actions made it almost work.
I was sucked into this story – more so Pete’s and where he is going on his path to redemption – if he gets there of course, and I felt that Steph was a good accompaniment to his story. I am not sold that this will be a partnership worth savouring, but I am keen as to find out!
A solid 4 stars.
http://kotasbookkollection.blogspot.c...
Pistol is the story of Steph and Pete. Steph is a young lady fresh out of a relationship with a bloke who is an arrogant arse and treated her poorly. While she tries to come to terms with her life after this relationship and who she has become, she starts to question her place in the ‘normal’ world of her peers.
Pete is an Irish rogue – of the hot, tatted and dangerous kind. He has immigrated to Australia to start a clean life, but it is harder than he anticipated. Then he meets Steph and it becomes a whole lot more complicated.
Steph has some friends that she leans on to help guide her, such as Cassie and Ivan. When she starts to rebuke their views on Pete though, these friendships become strained.
Max Henry has created characters that draw you in. Pete starts out like a hot alpha who makes your insides squirm, he then shows his colours that range from bastard to arsehole, yet at the same time, we are introduced to his broken soul, and his past that has tainted his heart. His inability to communicate how important Steph becomes to him is as frustrating for the reader as it is for Pete.
Steph quickly learns that her needs and wants do not fit the stereotype set by her friends and family. She is a little left of centre and unique, and it is not until she understands Pete that little bit more, that she starts to truly embrace that side of her personality.
As a reader I was initially sceptical of this story – what was its point of difference? would I really engage with the characters who initially seem superficial? Would the instalust be a turn off for me? Before I knew it, I was at 70% in the book and at that point I could not stop – I had to know what happened.
This story is a part of a series, so be aware going in – all is not resolved in this story. Are we kept wondering? Definitely… Is this a good or a bad cliff hanger? I am undecided, mainly because where the story ends has the potential to turn everything on its head, and I am not sure I can wait to find out what happens.
I found that this was not a perfect book. Ms Henry has mixed darkness and light, sex, love and kink and sometimes that mix was seamless and other times not. The introduction of kink between Steph and Pete seemed somewhat unbelievable, but the rationale behind the actions made it almost work.
I was sucked into this story – more so Pete’s and where he is going on his path to redemption – if he gets there of course, and I felt that Steph was a good accompaniment to his story. I am not sold that this will be a partnership worth savouring, but I am keen as to find out!
A solid 4 stars.
http://kotasbookkollection.blogspot.c...
July 13, 2014
I was provided a copy of the book by the Author for an honest review.
HOLY FUCKING SMOKE ( Excuse my French) I just finish reading this book, and I love it, love the characters, I am so glad that I will be reading the second book, as soon as I finish writing this review, I felt in love with this book from the first page to the last, I couldn't put the book down, that's how much I love it, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.
I love the character of Stephanie (A.K.A.) Steph, I love her attitude, the way she dress, her ink and the color of her hair, love it how she don't give a crap about what other think of her, love it how she wants to go to her dark side and explore it, I love everything about her.
I love the character of Pete (A.K.A.) Pistol, now what can I say about him, I love his attitude, the way he talks, love it how he know what he wants and go for it, I love his sexy blunt, arrogant way, and love it how he know that Steph is the one that drive him more crazy.
The story begging with Steph and her best friend Cass, after Steph told Cass that she and her Ex broke up, Cass told her that they need it to go out, that's when Cass took her to a bar she never being before, that's when she met the bartender, after watching him that night and she saw that he wont talk to her again, they decide to leave, that night Steph couldn't get him out of her head, what she did not expect was for her to run into him the next day, after finding out that they where going to the same place, he walk next to her once they got to the place, she ask her friend if he knew who he was, that's when she found out that his name is Pete, that's also when she knew that her world was about to turn up side down.
I love how Pete and Steph are with each other, love the banter that they have going on, love it how Steph tell him off, and love it even more when Pete open up to her telling her about his past, how he wanted to make sure that she was gone stick around, I just love this dam book, and now I am ready to read the second part.
Author Max Henry THANK YOU for introducing me to this awesome characters and this amazing awesome fucking book love it. And love the way you have with words and all the curse in it, just love it.
HOLY FUCKING SMOKE ( Excuse my French) I just finish reading this book, and I love it, love the characters, I am so glad that I will be reading the second book, as soon as I finish writing this review, I felt in love with this book from the first page to the last, I couldn't put the book down, that's how much I love it, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.
I love the character of Stephanie (A.K.A.) Steph, I love her attitude, the way she dress, her ink and the color of her hair, love it how she don't give a crap about what other think of her, love it how she wants to go to her dark side and explore it, I love everything about her.
I love the character of Pete (A.K.A.) Pistol, now what can I say about him, I love his attitude, the way he talks, love it how he know what he wants and go for it, I love his sexy blunt, arrogant way, and love it how he know that Steph is the one that drive him more crazy.
The story begging with Steph and her best friend Cass, after Steph told Cass that she and her Ex broke up, Cass told her that they need it to go out, that's when Cass took her to a bar she never being before, that's when she met the bartender, after watching him that night and she saw that he wont talk to her again, they decide to leave, that night Steph couldn't get him out of her head, what she did not expect was for her to run into him the next day, after finding out that they where going to the same place, he walk next to her once they got to the place, she ask her friend if he knew who he was, that's when she found out that his name is Pete, that's also when she knew that her world was about to turn up side down.
I love how Pete and Steph are with each other, love the banter that they have going on, love it how Steph tell him off, and love it even more when Pete open up to her telling her about his past, how he wanted to make sure that she was gone stick around, I just love this dam book, and now I am ready to read the second part.
Author Max Henry THANK YOU for introducing me to this awesome characters and this amazing awesome fucking book love it. And love the way you have with words and all the curse in it, just love it.
January 14, 2015
~*~ Obsessed by books copy given in exchange for an honest review ~*~
"So what if you grew up in poverty, wealth, abuse, or love. All that matters is the person you are now."
But who is Pete, Pistol to his associates? Stephanie hopes he is the man for her, embracing their joint love of ink and the sexual intensity that sparks between them. Stephanie, recently out of a two year relationship, meets Pete in a bar where he works. The insta attraction is strong and the are drawn to one another.She comes from a very traditional family with a loving upbringing but she favours an alternative image and lifestyle which is frowned upon. Feeling like she doesnt really fit in Stephanie is feeling adrift...
Pete; Irish, tattooed and a mystery he is the ultimate bad boy. He doesn't mince his words and never reveals his feelings. With snake of menance he remains aloof and distant...but like a moth to a flame he just can't stay away from Stephanie. He is lurking in the underworld and we glimpse the edges of tbr lengths he is prepared to go to to get what he wants. He slowly reveals his past, his background and the shocking events that shakes him into the man he has become.
Together they complete the broken pieces of each other and Pete nurtures the inner vixen that Stephanie has kept hidden. Giving her what she needs in and out of the bedroom Pete courts her darker desires bringing them to life and fulfilling her as no one ever before has. In Stephanie Pete dares to hope, to want, to feel....
Against their better judgement, against the wishes of their nearest and dearest the pair step into the unknown to give their relationship a chance. Ending with a bombshell (eyes wide, heart besting double time type ending) I was gutted it was over but relieved I can immediately start book two.
Five deeply dark and twisted five stars!
"So what if you grew up in poverty, wealth, abuse, or love. All that matters is the person you are now."
But who is Pete, Pistol to his associates? Stephanie hopes he is the man for her, embracing their joint love of ink and the sexual intensity that sparks between them. Stephanie, recently out of a two year relationship, meets Pete in a bar where he works. The insta attraction is strong and the are drawn to one another.She comes from a very traditional family with a loving upbringing but she favours an alternative image and lifestyle which is frowned upon. Feeling like she doesnt really fit in Stephanie is feeling adrift...
Pete; Irish, tattooed and a mystery he is the ultimate bad boy. He doesn't mince his words and never reveals his feelings. With snake of menance he remains aloof and distant...but like a moth to a flame he just can't stay away from Stephanie. He is lurking in the underworld and we glimpse the edges of tbr lengths he is prepared to go to to get what he wants. He slowly reveals his past, his background and the shocking events that shakes him into the man he has become.
Together they complete the broken pieces of each other and Pete nurtures the inner vixen that Stephanie has kept hidden. Giving her what she needs in and out of the bedroom Pete courts her darker desires bringing them to life and fulfilling her as no one ever before has. In Stephanie Pete dares to hope, to want, to feel....
Against their better judgement, against the wishes of their nearest and dearest the pair step into the unknown to give their relationship a chance. Ending with a bombshell (eyes wide, heart besting double time type ending) I was gutted it was over but relieved I can immediately start book two.
Five deeply dark and twisted five stars!
June 19, 2019
Very minor spoiler warning... I promise that no details are given.
The synopsis grabbed my attention but the book couldn't keep it. The idea for the story is great but the story itself needs work to make it equally great. Much of the conflict between the main characters seemed forced and immature. Stephanie was constantly angry at Pistol for doing the very things that she wanted and even asked him to do. She would initiate, he would oblige and then she would get mad and insinuate that she had been assaulted or that he was rude. There are better ways to handle coming to terms with one's sexually submissive nature than to blame the dominate. Another annoying trait of Stephanie's was that she had negative thoughts towards Pistol but she staunchly defended him to anyone who tried to warn her away from him. If she can stand up to friends and family, she should not be so quick to directly insult him. Stephanie's friend is just as bad. She insulted Stephanie's sense of style more than once and it didn't feel "good natured". Her treatment of Stephanie's decision regarding Pistol was unacceptable for a best friend. There is no excuse for disloyalty like that.
The only character I did like was Pistol and that is because his behavior was consistent and even logical, given his character.
One thing done well was the use of Irish and Australian English. Some American readers don't like it when this is done but if a book is going to take place outside of the USA, then it should feel that way in terms of vocabulary. There are tons of websites that offer up translations for slang and I love learning these words and their meanings. To give characters American voices when they aren't American is just ridiculous so kudos to Max Henry for keeping her character's voices authentic.
The synopsis grabbed my attention but the book couldn't keep it. The idea for the story is great but the story itself needs work to make it equally great. Much of the conflict between the main characters seemed forced and immature. Stephanie was constantly angry at Pistol for doing the very things that she wanted and even asked him to do. She would initiate, he would oblige and then she would get mad and insinuate that she had been assaulted or that he was rude. There are better ways to handle coming to terms with one's sexually submissive nature than to blame the dominate. Another annoying trait of Stephanie's was that she had negative thoughts towards Pistol but she staunchly defended him to anyone who tried to warn her away from him. If she can stand up to friends and family, she should not be so quick to directly insult him. Stephanie's friend is just as bad. She insulted Stephanie's sense of style more than once and it didn't feel "good natured". Her treatment of Stephanie's decision regarding Pistol was unacceptable for a best friend. There is no excuse for disloyalty like that.
The only character I did like was Pistol and that is because his behavior was consistent and even logical, given his character.
One thing done well was the use of Irish and Australian English. Some American readers don't like it when this is done but if a book is going to take place outside of the USA, then it should feel that way in terms of vocabulary. There are tons of websites that offer up translations for slang and I love learning these words and their meanings. To give characters American voices when they aren't American is just ridiculous so kudos to Max Henry for keeping her character's voices authentic.
December 20, 2015
Firstly, this cover art is fucking rad! Secondly; so is this story.
Steph and Pistol both have a past they have let define them and a present in which they both play their roles. That is, until they meet. The chemistry explodes. All bets are off, the stars align to send their paths on a sexually explosive, rock riddled journey to finding themselves, together.
Steph is a quiet rebel struggling to balance being all she has ever known - a some what dutiful daughter and sweet sister. And then there is her individual self; colourful, tattooed, beautiful, brave woman who wants the opportunity to explore herself and who she truly is.
Pistol is all that makes a bad-boy. Dark and broody, deviant, criminal, cheeky and all-a-that alongside his thick Irish accent. He's haunted by his abhorrent mother, a tragic loss and the shadow of the possibility that he is the type of man he despises.
"His nostrils flared, and his jaw worked from side to side. The thought was there in his eyes—the wolf contemplated the chase."
Steph brings Pistol the light. Pistol lets her play in the dark.
Can they manage the in between?
How do they love in both the stark bright clarity of Dawn & the fading line of the Dusk?
What I really respect about Steph & Pistols story is how totally full of flaws they are, and how totally brave, scared, irrational, sweet, strong they can be. They yell when they are emotional. They deny their future. They play. They bruise with their words. They make stupid mistakes - because they are human. They lose their patience. They turn in anger. They dive head first without caution and try to be cautious far too late. Its not perfectly orchestrated - because life ain't that way!
I'd say 'perfectly imperfect'
Max Henry is one of a handful of Authors that were my 'firsts' in the Romance genre. She sealed the deal in my induction to this world.
Steph and Pistol both have a past they have let define them and a present in which they both play their roles. That is, until they meet. The chemistry explodes. All bets are off, the stars align to send their paths on a sexually explosive, rock riddled journey to finding themselves, together.
Steph is a quiet rebel struggling to balance being all she has ever known - a some what dutiful daughter and sweet sister. And then there is her individual self; colourful, tattooed, beautiful, brave woman who wants the opportunity to explore herself and who she truly is.
Pistol is all that makes a bad-boy. Dark and broody, deviant, criminal, cheeky and all-a-that alongside his thick Irish accent. He's haunted by his abhorrent mother, a tragic loss and the shadow of the possibility that he is the type of man he despises.
"His nostrils flared, and his jaw worked from side to side. The thought was there in his eyes—the wolf contemplated the chase."
Steph brings Pistol the light. Pistol lets her play in the dark.
Can they manage the in between?
How do they love in both the stark bright clarity of Dawn & the fading line of the Dusk?
What I really respect about Steph & Pistols story is how totally full of flaws they are, and how totally brave, scared, irrational, sweet, strong they can be. They yell when they are emotional. They deny their future. They play. They bruise with their words. They make stupid mistakes - because they are human. They lose their patience. They turn in anger. They dive head first without caution and try to be cautious far too late. Its not perfectly orchestrated - because life ain't that way!
I'd say 'perfectly imperfect'
Max Henry is one of a handful of Authors that were my 'firsts' in the Romance genre. She sealed the deal in my induction to this world.
May 10, 2014
4 stars
Can two completely different people but seemingly the same find happiness and come to rely on each other no matter the past, present or future?
Stephanie or Steph as her friends know her has always been a little more outside of box with her life after something happened in her teenage years. Although what happened is not told to us, I am sure it will be revealed in book 2. She likes who she is when she looks in the mirror. But one encounter with the bad ass tattooed bartender, Pete, “Pistol” Steph starts to go down this dark road that has no ending. As much as she wants to turn off this road, she is drawn to Pete.
Pete, “Pistol” has so many secrets and his armor is unbreakable until he lays eyes on Steph or “Love” as he fondly calls her. He thinks he has finally found someone that will not run away once his past is revealed. As he slow tells her things from his past and shows her different sides of him, she surprises him by wanting to still be there. Steph is slowing breaking that armor he has around himself.
The story was some what more mind game at times and dark with how much one person was willing to allow happen to them. The feeling that Steph felt toward Pete was stronger than her will to leave him alone. Pete was not able to walk away either.
Will Steph and Pete be able to find the happiness that they both deserve? Can Pete learn to let go of the past, not turning into the person he fears most? Can Steph deal with the man Pete really is?
I can not wait to read book 2 in this series to see if any of my unanswered questions will be revealed. In a sick way I kind of love Pistol!!
Can two completely different people but seemingly the same find happiness and come to rely on each other no matter the past, present or future?
Stephanie or Steph as her friends know her has always been a little more outside of box with her life after something happened in her teenage years. Although what happened is not told to us, I am sure it will be revealed in book 2. She likes who she is when she looks in the mirror. But one encounter with the bad ass tattooed bartender, Pete, “Pistol” Steph starts to go down this dark road that has no ending. As much as she wants to turn off this road, she is drawn to Pete.
Pete, “Pistol” has so many secrets and his armor is unbreakable until he lays eyes on Steph or “Love” as he fondly calls her. He thinks he has finally found someone that will not run away once his past is revealed. As he slow tells her things from his past and shows her different sides of him, she surprises him by wanting to still be there. Steph is slowing breaking that armor he has around himself.
The story was some what more mind game at times and dark with how much one person was willing to allow happen to them. The feeling that Steph felt toward Pete was stronger than her will to leave him alone. Pete was not able to walk away either.
Will Steph and Pete be able to find the happiness that they both deserve? Can Pete learn to let go of the past, not turning into the person he fears most? Can Steph deal with the man Pete really is?
I can not wait to read book 2 in this series to see if any of my unanswered questions will be revealed. In a sick way I kind of love Pistol!!
November 4, 2014
So I stumbled upon this juicy morsal going through my iBooks app, it was free at the time & there was something about it that caught my eye...
Pistol is book 1 in the Banjaxed series... were we meet Steph, an inked Rockabilly chick, who just finished a 2 year relationship with a douche, and we meet Pete (Pistol) an Irish inked hottie, who is drawn to Steph like a moth is to a flame (don't forget the accent).
Max has done an awesome job in writting about an intensely real relationship. It is a romance but not the kind we normally read, I mean come on who wants lovey dovey romance where everything is perfect all the time??? If you answer with ME... then look elsewhere this isn't Disney! And I feel that it is better than what Disney can offer!!
It's about a girl who is going through self growth & doubt after 1 man breaks her and don't get me started with the lack of support from her parents, we see her learn what she wants in her life but is too affraid to ask for it. And a boy who knows what he is but doesn't want to end up like his father or mother (in this case I can agree with him).
Thank you Max for a truly hipnotic book, it drew me in & I was stuck needing to read the whole book in 1 sitting (which is pretty much what I've done). It ended on a sort of a cliffy, but I can totally see myslef grabbing a hold of book 2.
Pistol is book 1 in the Banjaxed series... were we meet Steph, an inked Rockabilly chick, who just finished a 2 year relationship with a douche, and we meet Pete (Pistol) an Irish inked hottie, who is drawn to Steph like a moth is to a flame (don't forget the accent).
Max has done an awesome job in writting about an intensely real relationship. It is a romance but not the kind we normally read, I mean come on who wants lovey dovey romance where everything is perfect all the time??? If you answer with ME... then look elsewhere this isn't Disney! And I feel that it is better than what Disney can offer!!
It's about a girl who is going through self growth & doubt after 1 man breaks her and don't get me started with the lack of support from her parents, we see her learn what she wants in her life but is too affraid to ask for it. And a boy who knows what he is but doesn't want to end up like his father or mother (in this case I can agree with him).
Thank you Max for a truly hipnotic book, it drew me in & I was stuck needing to read the whole book in 1 sitting (which is pretty much what I've done). It ended on a sort of a cliffy, but I can totally see myslef grabbing a hold of book 2.
August 28, 2014
The word that comes to mind when I think of this book is interesting. It was good. It was worth reading. I did like it, BUT it was definitely more interesting in what happens and what the characters are thinking.
This book takes place in Australia, which I didn’t get for a bit. There are some words that are used differently than how they are used in the U.S., but I understood all of it. It wasn’t a big deal.
Pistol sounded darker than he actually was. I mean that in context of his work. There is a darker side of where he gets his money. There is a slight explanation for that at the end, but it didn’t feel in-depth enough to me. He mentions a guy several times in the book, but never references what exactly Pistol does with this guy or used to do. Personally I wanted more of an explanation on that front. I also wasn’t sure exactly how much power he does have at the club.
The heroine was probably my favorite part of this book. I loved that she had tattoos and dyed her hair. The heroine really had issues with identity in this book so it really was about her personal growth. She did a lot of it and I really enjoyed that aspect of the book.
Another good part of the book was certain scenes (****wink wink****).
I’m debating on reading the next one. I probably will just out of pure curiosity.
4/5
November 22, 2014
i have some mixed feelings about this story. at times i felt like there were some important pieces of the story missing - it was almost like our knowledge of certain aspects of the story are assumed.
stephanie is a unique person who obviously has no problem expressing her individuality. she is having trouble coping with what she's discovering is the real her because she is afraid of what her friends/family will think.
when she meets pete and gets to know him, she can finally free the real her. pete has a past that is hard to deal with - and it was glossed over a bit for my liking. what happened to him as a kid was devastating but how he dealt with it as an adult is unacceptable in my opinion and it's made to be not the big deal it should be.
their relationship, while explosive and filled with chemistry, is confusing. pete seemed to have 2 personalities. both he and steph had a lot of self-doubt and it seemed a bit much and the inner dialogue of self-deprecation happened too much. on the positive side, pete did help steph discover the real her sexually and helped bring her out of her shell.
i am intrigued enough about the story to continue with book 2.
stephanie is a unique person who obviously has no problem expressing her individuality. she is having trouble coping with what she's discovering is the real her because she is afraid of what her friends/family will think.
when she meets pete and gets to know him, she can finally free the real her. pete has a past that is hard to deal with - and it was glossed over a bit for my liking. what happened to him as a kid was devastating but how he dealt with it as an adult is unacceptable in my opinion and it's made to be not the big deal it should be.
their relationship, while explosive and filled with chemistry, is confusing. pete seemed to have 2 personalities. both he and steph had a lot of self-doubt and it seemed a bit much and the inner dialogue of self-deprecation happened too much. on the positive side, pete did help steph discover the real her sexually and helped bring her out of her shell.
i am intrigued enough about the story to continue with book 2.
August 6, 2014
I LOVE this book! This is a new author to me. I loved romance and suspense so when it is mixed together in the right way a masterpiece is created! This is what we got with Pistol. It is full of action, sexy scenes, suspense, twists, turns, drama, and one alpha male that will make you swoon hard!
This is the story of Pete "Pistol" and Steph. Both are damamged. Both has skeletons in their pasts. Pistol doesn't connect or open his heart to anyone. Well not anyone until he meets Steph. Steph is walking that line between boring and wanting to step out of the box. And she gets her chance when she meets Pistol. Both of their worlds are thrown into a tailspin and will never be the same again.
I loved Pistol. He is troubled, damaged, dominant, dark sexy, broody, alpha to the extreme, protective, and the man can make your panties melt off. Oh and did I mention he is IRISH! Any man with an accent is an ace in my book! I also liked Steph though she still is growing on me. I can't wait to see her more as this series progresses! The chemistry between these two is off the charts hot!
That ending... WOW! I need book two now! :)
This is the story of Pete "Pistol" and Steph. Both are damamged. Both has skeletons in their pasts. Pistol doesn't connect or open his heart to anyone. Well not anyone until he meets Steph. Steph is walking that line between boring and wanting to step out of the box. And she gets her chance when she meets Pistol. Both of their worlds are thrown into a tailspin and will never be the same again.
I loved Pistol. He is troubled, damaged, dominant, dark sexy, broody, alpha to the extreme, protective, and the man can make your panties melt off. Oh and did I mention he is IRISH! Any man with an accent is an ace in my book! I also liked Steph though she still is growing on me. I can't wait to see her more as this series progresses! The chemistry between these two is off the charts hot!
That ending... WOW! I need book two now! :)
August 11, 2016
Steph’s boyfriend called it quits to their two year long relationship right before New Years Eve. Her best friend and co-worker Cass convinces her to go out with her to get her out of her rut. There she meets the hot bartender Pete, or Pistol as his friends refer to him. From then on she runs into him on her way to a BBQ being held by family friends, and he consumes her thoughts with his piercing blue eyes and colorful tattoos. Pete tries to keep his dark past from Steph, but can’t seem to withstand being drawn to her.
I would have to give this book 3 out of 5 stars. I wish that Steph and Pete’s relationship was developed a little more, and not just merely a physical attraction. I just couldn’t understand the plot and where the story was going; it just seemed to jump around too much for me to follow. I hoped to find out more about Steph and Pete’s pasts, and for that matter what Pete does now besides bartending. There was too much left up in the air to stipulate with where the next book may go.
Review posted to Bookloversobsession.com
****ARC given for an honest review****
I would have to give this book 3 out of 5 stars. I wish that Steph and Pete’s relationship was developed a little more, and not just merely a physical attraction. I just couldn’t understand the plot and where the story was going; it just seemed to jump around too much for me to follow. I hoped to find out more about Steph and Pete’s pasts, and for that matter what Pete does now besides bartending. There was too much left up in the air to stipulate with where the next book may go.
Review posted to Bookloversobsession.com
****ARC given for an honest review****
November 8, 2014
~*~*~2.5 Stars~*~*~
~*~*~2.5 Stars~*~*~
I'm not going to lie I did not like this book, after I read the synopsis I become interested and though it would be a descent read but I was really disappointed with the execution.
The plot and the idea behind it is a good one but when it come to the delivery something was missing, it was a little confusing. It felt empty, I had not commendation to any of the characters. The plot is lacking depth and substance. It needs work.
The sex scene were hot and well written, but for me it needed more plot to balance all the sex.
I disliked the characters especially Steph she just got on my last nerves, I taught she was OK at first but as the story went on she got more and more annoying.
Pete (Pistol) is a decent enough written guy I just wasn't able to connect with him at all on any level what so ever.
On a more positive note the writing and grammar was good, I would read more from Max just not this series.
This book was just not for but it might be up your ally.
2.5 Stars From Natasha
~*~*~2.5 Stars~*~*~
I'm not going to lie I did not like this book, after I read the synopsis I become interested and though it would be a descent read but I was really disappointed with the execution.
The plot and the idea behind it is a good one but when it come to the delivery something was missing, it was a little confusing. It felt empty, I had not commendation to any of the characters. The plot is lacking depth and substance. It needs work.
The sex scene were hot and well written, but for me it needed more plot to balance all the sex.
I disliked the characters especially Steph she just got on my last nerves, I taught she was OK at first but as the story went on she got more and more annoying.
Pete (Pistol) is a decent enough written guy I just wasn't able to connect with him at all on any level what so ever.
On a more positive note the writing and grammar was good, I would read more from Max just not this series.
This book was just not for but it might be up your ally.
2.5 Stars From Natasha
August 5, 2016
Gosh, where do I start... This author tends to go down a dark path with the writing from the 2 books I've read. This book was so different, I'm not sure what to say. He's a "bad boy" with a serious obsession for her, I really wouldn't call it love, & he doesn't change and become an over all good guy for the girl like in other books-other than just obsessing over her, the rest of his behavior is still bad-as in he should probably go to jail- sort of way. The girl has such low self esteem & willing to be in such a messed up situation & with a guy like him in the first place. I really don't know, she just wasn't the kind of female character I like to read about. Definitely a bizarre reading. Also distracting, some of the slang from Australia was used, that I had no idea of the meaning. Had to look up a few to figure it out. Don't know that I would read another book from this author -too dark & disturbed for my taste. This book left me with a bad taste in my mouth. Just barely could finish reading it.
June 5, 2014
Wow. What an intense read. I couldn't put the book down and I hate how it ended. Major cliff hanger, so I can't wait for the next book! I want Steph and Pete to work out, but man is that a tough one. I'm rooting for them though.
Ok now that my little gushing/rant is over I will get to the book. It is very well written and will keep you on the edge of your seat. I love the bits of witty humor, but there is a darker side. Pete is the perfect bad boy with tats and piercings to go with it. Steph is the perfect good girl looking for something that isn't the norm. I liked the story. Some of Pete's revelations took me completely by surprise, which I love. Nothing is better than when an author can catch me off guard. Its hard to do.
Overall, a great read. I am looking forward/needing the next book in the series and I can't wait. I am pretty curious to see where Henry takes us in the next installment. I would highly recommend to all.
Ok now that my little gushing/rant is over I will get to the book. It is very well written and will keep you on the edge of your seat. I love the bits of witty humor, but there is a darker side. Pete is the perfect bad boy with tats and piercings to go with it. Steph is the perfect good girl looking for something that isn't the norm. I liked the story. Some of Pete's revelations took me completely by surprise, which I love. Nothing is better than when an author can catch me off guard. Its hard to do.
Overall, a great read. I am looking forward/needing the next book in the series and I can't wait. I am pretty curious to see where Henry takes us in the next installment. I would highly recommend to all.
July 17, 2014
Sorry but I just can't get past her actions every time. She was drawn to him and initiated things as much as he did yet she always ended it with throwing things in his face, accusing him of the worst because she was afraid of herself and then constantly walked away from him every time he needed her the most. First off she isn't afraid to dye her hair, get tattoos and wear vintage clothing to show her personality but she is afraid of the kind of sex she enjoys? You don't even have to tell anyone what you like in the privacy of your home except your partner.
Second he opens up to her and she finally discovers why he is the way he is and what he does. She openly judges him yet keeps turning around and saying well I can ignore it. Yet like I said keeps walking away and hurting him when he needs her.
He's not perfect but it's crap when he is always going to her after she pushes him away and all she can do is be selfish and afraid of everyone's opinion and what this says about her.
Second he opens up to her and she finally discovers why he is the way he is and what he does. She openly judges him yet keeps turning around and saying well I can ignore it. Yet like I said keeps walking away and hurting him when he needs her.
He's not perfect but it's crap when he is always going to her after she pushes him away and all she can do is be selfish and afraid of everyone's opinion and what this says about her.
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