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Park Avenue Kings #5
Ruthless
They called him America’s golden son.
Now he’s the man who’d burn the world for a prince.
When Prince Theodore Rinaldi vanishes, Shepard “Shep” Winchester III will do anything to bring him back.
What starts as a mission of duty ignites into a forbidden obsession—one that blurs every line between loyalty and love.
Back in New York, the Kings are under attack, their secrets exposed, their brotherhood fractured.
And when an attempt on Theo’s life plays out in front of flashing cameras, the world sees what they were never meant to: a touch too intimate, a look too raw.
Shep is the son of American power.
Theo is European royalty.
And in a world built on loyalty, betrayal, and lies, love might be the most ruthless act of all.
Now he’s the man who’d burn the world for a prince.
When Prince Theodore Rinaldi vanishes, Shepard “Shep” Winchester III will do anything to bring him back.
What starts as a mission of duty ignites into a forbidden obsession—one that blurs every line between loyalty and love.
Back in New York, the Kings are under attack, their secrets exposed, their brotherhood fractured.
And when an attempt on Theo’s life plays out in front of flashing cameras, the world sees what they were never meant to: a touch too intimate, a look too raw.
Shep is the son of American power.
Theo is European royalty.
And in a world built on loyalty, betrayal, and lies, love might be the most ruthless act of all.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 8, 2026
119 people are currently reading
673 people want to read
About the author
Brooke Blaine
66 books2,449 followersBrooke Blaine is a USA Today Bestselling Author best known for writing romantic comedy and M/M romance. Her novels lead with humor and heart, but Brooke never shies away from throwing in something extra naughty that will scandalize her conservative Southern family for life (bless their hearts).
She’s a choc-o-holic, lives for eighties bands (which means she thinks guyliner is totally underrated), believes it’s always wine o’clock, and lives with the coolest cat on the planet—her Ragdoll/Maine Coon mix, Jackson Agador Spartacus.
She’s a choc-o-holic, lives for eighties bands (which means she thinks guyliner is totally underrated), believes it’s always wine o’clock, and lives with the coolest cat on the planet—her Ragdoll/Maine Coon mix, Jackson Agador Spartacus.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Jesus Christ, it was a sad day when I was getting handed my ass by James fucking Easton."
Ruthless is book 5 in the Park Avenue Kings series by powerhouse writing duo Brooke Blaine and Ella Frank and I absolutely LOVED it - especially all the cameos from some of our favourites!
It's set in the same world as the Park Avenue Princes series by the same authors, and whilst there's a definite link between the two worlds, pre-reading is not required (although I'd definitely recommend that series too!)
This is the second part of Shep and Theo's story and it had the perfect ending for these two Kings! Do make sure you read part 1 Merciless first!
What To Expect:
🖤MM darkish romance
🖤Colleagues/friends to lovers
🖤2 x alpha males
🖤Forced proximity
🖤Monaco royalty x American royalty
🖤Steamy AF times
🖤Opposites attract
🖤Found family
🖤HEA
Can't wait for Alessio and Father Vitale's book, the final one in the series, coming soon in Unholy ✝️
4.25 stars
Ruthless is book 5 in the Park Avenue Kings series by powerhouse writing duo Brooke Blaine and Ella Frank and I absolutely LOVED it - especially all the cameos from some of our favourites!
It's set in the same world as the Park Avenue Princes series by the same authors, and whilst there's a definite link between the two worlds, pre-reading is not required (although I'd definitely recommend that series too!)
This is the second part of Shep and Theo's story and it had the perfect ending for these two Kings! Do make sure you read part 1 Merciless first!
What To Expect:
🖤MM darkish romance
🖤Colleagues/friends to lovers
🖤2 x alpha males
🖤Forced proximity
🖤Monaco royalty x American royalty
🖤Steamy AF times
🖤Opposites attract
🖤Found family
🖤HEA
Can't wait for Alessio and Father Vitale's book, the final one in the series, coming soon in Unholy ✝️
4.25 stars
January 14, 2026
⭐️
4.5 stars rounded up!
⭐️
Shep and Theo continue their romance in this second installment, after the last left off with Theo being kidnapped right under Shep's nose.
I'd say the first 2/3's of this was excellent, 5 stars as we got even more development of these two and their relationship, and the plot advanced and kept us readers on the edge of our seat.
Once around the 60% mark came around, for the last third or so of this book, I'd say it slowed down a bit for me. I'd say that last part was around 4 stars for me, so that evens out to 4.5 stars. It was still good, I still loved these two together, but it was a lot story for just the wrap up of their story.
We get the main plot of these books wrapped by around 60% in, and it happens so quickly after all the build up and then we spend the last part of the book getting wrap up story, basically. Which was great, it was fine, but perhaps it didn't need to be almost 40% of the book, is all I'm saying.
Like yes, I loved that we got these two being able to be out with their relationship to the world, and get really settled into their relationship and all that, and then get to their HEA - that was all great, but it was still perhaps a bit too slow for me at times.
I don't think we needed that much time dedicated to all that.
Also, there is something a bit rushed that I don't know if I 100% agreed with -
I also feel like this skipped out on a few bits I'd have liked more detail on. Like .
I also felt that for a guy so smart, how the villain is captured was a bit...stupid. He has been stalking and building up to his ultimate plan for these guys for 6 years or so and he has the bright idea to go about it like that? And he gets taken down so easily? I just feel it should have been more of a challenge to capture and put an end to him, especially after he'd been so difficult to pin down and deal with before.
It felt a bit like the authors didn't know how else to bring him down, but, there could have been 40% more book space to use to make it more of a challenge. Like I don't know, even a big fight between the guy and his henchmen would have been great and felt earn, imo. Like Shep gets shot on the arm, but that's all anyone gets injured. For such a big threat, it didn't turn out to big such a big threat in the end at all.
So yeah, those are my main reasons for .5 off, I just think more could have been done to truly warp this story up the right way.
Theo and Shep were still a strong couple and I loved them together until the end, but yet, I had a few issues her and there, is all.
But still, this was a strong book, a strong couple, and for most of it, a strong story. It just fumbled a bit near the end.
Overall, I still highly recommend this and I loved Shep and Theo's story. I absolutely can't wait for Alessio and Father Vitale's story either, and to find out what's gone on between them in the past. Also I wouldn't mind some illicit sex between them even though it's oh so wrong for a Priest to break his celibacy...
So, until then! 😘
My Ratings for the Park Avenue Kings Series:
✨ Savage: 5 stars (my review)
✨ Devilish: 4.25 stars (my review)
✨ Immoral: 4 stars (my review)
✨ Merciless: 4.5 stars (my review)
✨ Ruthless: 4.5 stars
Shep and Theo continue their romance in this second installment, after the last left off with Theo being kidnapped right under Shep's nose.
I'd say the first 2/3's of this was excellent, 5 stars as we got even more development of these two and their relationship, and the plot advanced and kept us readers on the edge of our seat.
Once around the 60% mark came around, for the last third or so of this book, I'd say it slowed down a bit for me. I'd say that last part was around 4 stars for me, so that evens out to 4.5 stars. It was still good, I still loved these two together, but it was a lot story for just the wrap up of their story.
We get the main plot of these books wrapped by around 60% in, and it happens so quickly after all the build up and then we spend the last part of the book getting wrap up story, basically. Which was great, it was fine, but perhaps it didn't need to be almost 40% of the book, is all I'm saying.
Like yes, I loved that we got these two being able to be out with their relationship to the world, and get really settled into their relationship and all that, and then get to their HEA - that was all great, but it was still perhaps a bit too slow for me at times.
I don't think we needed that much time dedicated to all that.
Also, there is something a bit rushed that I don't know if I 100% agreed with -
I also feel like this skipped out on a few bits I'd have liked more detail on. Like .
I also felt that for a guy so smart, how the villain is captured was a bit...stupid. He has been stalking and building up to his ultimate plan for these guys for 6 years or so and he has the bright idea to go about it like that? And he gets taken down so easily? I just feel it should have been more of a challenge to capture and put an end to him, especially after he'd been so difficult to pin down and deal with before.
It felt a bit like the authors didn't know how else to bring him down, but, there could have been 40% more book space to use to make it more of a challenge. Like I don't know, even a big fight between the guy and his henchmen would have been great and felt earn, imo. Like Shep gets shot on the arm, but that's all anyone gets injured. For such a big threat, it didn't turn out to big such a big threat in the end at all.
So yeah, those are my main reasons for .5 off, I just think more could have been done to truly warp this story up the right way.
Theo and Shep were still a strong couple and I loved them together until the end, but yet, I had a few issues her and there, is all.
But still, this was a strong book, a strong couple, and for most of it, a strong story. It just fumbled a bit near the end.
Overall, I still highly recommend this and I loved Shep and Theo's story. I absolutely can't wait for Alessio and Father Vitale's story either, and to find out what's gone on between them in the past. Also I wouldn't mind some illicit sex between them even though it's oh so wrong for a Priest to break his celibacy...
So, until then! 😘
My Ratings for the Park Avenue Kings Series:
✨ Savage: 5 stars (my review)
✨ Devilish: 4.25 stars (my review)
✨ Immoral: 4 stars (my review)
✨ Merciless: 4.5 stars (my review)
✨ Ruthless: 4.5 stars
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Good lawd this book.
I wasn't sure where it was going to go after the events of Merciless but I should have known it would be utterly crazy and filled with powerful men doing dodgy things in the name of love!
Here Shep's mantle as the controlled Park Avenue King drops and he's feral as he tries to find Theo and work out who's behind the plot which is threatening Libertine.
There's also a whole bunch of unresolved tension with King himself over the whole leading the bad guys to us in the jungle thang and I was very pleased to see that addressed and in a satisfying fashion that felt real to the background of all these characters.
No spoilers for the rest, but it did stray a little bit into run with it for the plot's sake rather than anything approaching how it would go in the actual world, but I'm more than happy to just let it go for pure entertainment value.
Soooooo, now we're just left with Unholy, Alesso's story and I am desperate now to find out how Brooke and Ella are going to deal with the sparks flying between him and Father Viale and how they'll resolve that in a way which feels genuine.
Suspend disbelief, jump in for the ride and fall in love with two powerful men going soft for each other while being willing to burn the world to the ground.
#ARC kindly received from the authors via The Author Agency, I am voluntarily leaving a review
I wasn't sure where it was going to go after the events of Merciless but I should have known it would be utterly crazy and filled with powerful men doing dodgy things in the name of love!
Here Shep's mantle as the controlled Park Avenue King drops and he's feral as he tries to find Theo and work out who's behind the plot which is threatening Libertine.
There's also a whole bunch of unresolved tension with King himself over the whole leading the bad guys to us in the jungle thang and I was very pleased to see that addressed and in a satisfying fashion that felt real to the background of all these characters.
No spoilers for the rest, but it did stray a little bit into run with it for the plot's sake rather than anything approaching how it would go in the actual world, but I'm more than happy to just let it go for pure entertainment value.
Soooooo, now we're just left with Unholy, Alesso's story and I am desperate now to find out how Brooke and Ella are going to deal with the sparks flying between him and Father Viale and how they'll resolve that in a way which feels genuine.
Suspend disbelief, jump in for the ride and fall in love with two powerful men going soft for each other while being willing to burn the world to the ground.
#ARC kindly received from the authors via The Author Agency, I am voluntarily leaving a review
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ruthless Book Review
Ella Frank & Brooke Blaine
Shep & Theo
👑 Billionaire
❤️ Alpha Heroes
👑 Royalty
❤️ Friends to Lovers
👑 Workplace Romance
❤️ Secret Romance
👑 Anti-Heroes
💫 Stars 🥺❤️
Ugh, my heart, I needed this book so badly. The way Merciless left off killed me.
EEK! I was sweating the first few pages, on the edge of my seat!
Shep was fittin’ to blow, he needed his man back!
This was perfection!
The way King got taken down a notch or two, was the best ever! Didn’t reali3ze how I needed that lol He was getting on my last nerve, the audacity to be bothered by Shep & Theo, my eyes rolled out of my head lol Absolutely not!
Ugh this was beautiful, sweet, funny, romantic, just literally perfect.
They are so perfect for each other. They match each other's energies so well. They know exactly how to deal with each other's fits lol No one else could have handled Theo and his food throwing lol.
Ugh, I loved this so much. Pretty sure I didn't breathe this whole book lol Read it in one sitting like it was giving me life!
The Vegas trip had me sobbing, this book made my heart so happy. I needed their HEA so badly. It was a perfect HEA too, over the top, but they needed it, after everything, especially Shep.
No more hiding! Ugh, I’m teary-eyed. I loved this so, so much.
Uhm Alessio and The Father, I’m gagged, I can’t wait, eeek!
All the stars
All the hearts
Just yes, Yes, Yes, I so needed this book.
So thankful for this arc
Ella Frank & Brooke Blaine
Shep & Theo
👑 Billionaire
❤️ Alpha Heroes
👑 Royalty
❤️ Friends to Lovers
👑 Workplace Romance
❤️ Secret Romance
👑 Anti-Heroes
💫 Stars 🥺❤️
Ugh, my heart, I needed this book so badly. The way Merciless left off killed me.
EEK! I was sweating the first few pages, on the edge of my seat!
Shep was fittin’ to blow, he needed his man back!
This was perfection!
The way King got taken down a notch or two, was the best ever! Didn’t reali3ze how I needed that lol He was getting on my last nerve, the audacity to be bothered by Shep & Theo, my eyes rolled out of my head lol Absolutely not!
Ugh this was beautiful, sweet, funny, romantic, just literally perfect.
They are so perfect for each other. They match each other's energies so well. They know exactly how to deal with each other's fits lol No one else could have handled Theo and his food throwing lol.
Ugh, I loved this so much. Pretty sure I didn't breathe this whole book lol Read it in one sitting like it was giving me life!
The Vegas trip had me sobbing, this book made my heart so happy. I needed their HEA so badly. It was a perfect HEA too, over the top, but they needed it, after everything, especially Shep.
No more hiding! Ugh, I’m teary-eyed. I loved this so, so much.
Uhm Alessio and The Father, I’m gagged, I can’t wait, eeek!
All the stars
All the hearts
Just yes, Yes, Yes, I so needed this book.
So thankful for this arc
January 14, 2026
4.5/5 - I love Theo and Shep so much! This was a great follow-up to Merciless. I really loved the over all storyline and ending. I will say at times the conflict got resolved fairly quickly. However, I still have fun with it and the spice scenes were top notched.
January 7, 2026
4,75⭐️
This book was exactly how I wanted it to be, I deeply love the dynamic between Theo and Shep and seeing them fighting for each other is everything. How they learn to trust the other, believe that they would not betray each other and would do anything for each other. So many things happen between the Kings themselves and it is possible to really see where alliances are, how the brotherhood is working and seeing been the different masks.
I do not want this series to end, I really enjoyed the fact that there is more action and sensation, it was thrilling.
Theo and Shep are my fav couple and they deserved to have two books for this intense relationship.
I received an ARC Copy of this book, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
This book was exactly how I wanted it to be, I deeply love the dynamic between Theo and Shep and seeing them fighting for each other is everything. How they learn to trust the other, believe that they would not betray each other and would do anything for each other. So many things happen between the Kings themselves and it is possible to really see where alliances are, how the brotherhood is working and seeing been the different masks.
I do not want this series to end, I really enjoyed the fact that there is more action and sensation, it was thrilling.
Theo and Shep are my fav couple and they deserved to have two books for this intense relationship.
I received an ARC Copy of this book, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
December 24, 2025
I have been waiting for this ever since the end of book 4 and I was not disappointed!!! I love Theo and Shep so much and the shift in their relationship was fantastic to see. Theo is such a chaos gremlin who cares about the kings and Shep so fiercely and Shep is the logical calm Theo needs and together they balance each other. The food fight, napkin declaration and banter were a great time! I really liked the way they dealt with King and the changes in the group dynamic. The side characters are always fun and I’m excited for 6!
💛ARC REVIEW💜
💛ARC REVIEW💜
Review of advance copy received from Author
After the cliffhanger from the last book, I was desperate to get stuck into this one, so I was eagerly downloading this ARC as soon as I saw it in my inbox.
I was absolutely ready for Shep to unleash hell to find his man. The protective side of Shep is my absolute favourite - his determination and fight not to give up on Theo *massive swoon*
These two have firmly won the place of my favourite couple from this series so far (sorry, Lucien and Kai. You two are a very close second!). Their back and forths are absolute gold, and their chemistry *phew* absolutely smoking! I’m surprised they don’t set everything on fire around them, they are so hot together.
I can’t get enough of Theo’s sarcastic comebacks and seeing Shep behind closed doors when he lets his hair down.
I adore how these two’s personalities balance each other out so perfectly, and that they bring out the best in each other. While perhaps Shep’s positive influence on our wild card Theo is more obvious, the former is encouraged to stand up for himself and his man, which I appreciated very much. I was mentally cheering Shep on when he finally lets loose on King after being a ‘good’ second in command for so long, despite all the past hurt.
These two each needed someone to support them, to believe and trust in them. They’re used to being in the spotlight, but they find love behind closed doors in the most unexpected place. I so loved watching them fall for each other. Two men who didn’t want anything serious but can’t help their feelings. They are so much stronger together.
It's an intense ride for Theo and Shep, but I was very happy with the ending. It felt so right, and I was thrilled that they got to honour their relationship on their terms.
It feels like the Kings were tested during this duet, but ultimately their family of brothers come out all the stronger following this trial. I’m so excited for Alessio’s story.
------
Some of my favourite quotes
“You were trying to get back to me?” “With every single breath I took.”
“You have nothing to be sorry about. You came for me, you found me, you saved me.”
But you always did say I was a royal nightmare.” “Maybe so... But I’m starting to think you’re my royal dream.”
“When it comes to you and me, I’m not hiding anymore. Not from anyone.”
“Be obsessed with me, Shep. Because I sure as fuck can’t get enough of you.”
“I’m not your keeper, Theo. I’m your man. And you’re my priority over everyone.”
“I had no idea that the person that would finally complete me was standing right next to me all along. He just wasn’t in focus yet. But you are now. You are all that’s bright, all that’s light in my life.”
“I knew I’d be your menace.”
----
Thank you to the authors and The Author Agency for the ARC copy of this book. This is my honest review.
I was absolutely ready for Shep to unleash hell to find his man. The protective side of Shep is my absolute favourite - his determination and fight not to give up on Theo *massive swoon*
These two have firmly won the place of my favourite couple from this series so far (sorry, Lucien and Kai. You two are a very close second!). Their back and forths are absolute gold, and their chemistry *phew* absolutely smoking! I’m surprised they don’t set everything on fire around them, they are so hot together.
I can’t get enough of Theo’s sarcastic comebacks and seeing Shep behind closed doors when he lets his hair down.
I adore how these two’s personalities balance each other out so perfectly, and that they bring out the best in each other. While perhaps Shep’s positive influence on our wild card Theo is more obvious, the former is encouraged to stand up for himself and his man, which I appreciated very much. I was mentally cheering Shep on when he finally lets loose on King after being a ‘good’ second in command for so long, despite all the past hurt.
These two each needed someone to support them, to believe and trust in them. They’re used to being in the spotlight, but they find love behind closed doors in the most unexpected place. I so loved watching them fall for each other. Two men who didn’t want anything serious but can’t help their feelings. They are so much stronger together.
It's an intense ride for Theo and Shep, but I was very happy with the ending. It felt so right, and I was thrilled that they got to honour their relationship on their terms.
It feels like the Kings were tested during this duet, but ultimately their family of brothers come out all the stronger following this trial. I’m so excited for Alessio’s story.
------
Some of my favourite quotes
“You were trying to get back to me?” “With every single breath I took.”
“You have nothing to be sorry about. You came for me, you found me, you saved me.”
But you always did say I was a royal nightmare.” “Maybe so... But I’m starting to think you’re my royal dream.”
“When it comes to you and me, I’m not hiding anymore. Not from anyone.”
“Be obsessed with me, Shep. Because I sure as fuck can’t get enough of you.”
“I’m not your keeper, Theo. I’m your man. And you’re my priority over everyone.”
“I had no idea that the person that would finally complete me was standing right next to me all along. He just wasn’t in focus yet. But you are now. You are all that’s bright, all that’s light in my life.”
“I knew I’d be your menace.”
----
Thank you to the authors and The Author Agency for the ARC copy of this book. This is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ruthless – Ella Frank & Brooke Blaine
ARC REVİEW 📖💫
Ruthless was one of those books that pushed me out of my comfort zone, yet somehow I couldn’t put it down.
The story isn’t soft, and neither are the characters. Honestly, that’s exactly the point of this book.
Are the relationships toxic? Yes.
Are there bad decisions? Absolutely.
But within all that chaos, there’s a pull that makes it hard to say “no.”
The characters are self-aware;
they know they’re not good people, and they have no intention of stopping.
Power struggles, control, and uncontrollable desires make the story grow darker and darker, and despite everything, you keep reading.
More than once while reading, I caught myself thinking:
“I’m not defending this, but I’m curious.”
If you enjoy dark romance,
flawed characters, relationships where boundaries are deliberately pushed, and disturbing emotional dynamics, Ruthless is that book.
It’s not for everyone, but for those who love it, it’s highly addictive. 🖤
ARC REVİEW 📖💫
Ruthless was one of those books that pushed me out of my comfort zone, yet somehow I couldn’t put it down.
The story isn’t soft, and neither are the characters. Honestly, that’s exactly the point of this book.
Are the relationships toxic? Yes.
Are there bad decisions? Absolutely.
But within all that chaos, there’s a pull that makes it hard to say “no.”
The characters are self-aware;
they know they’re not good people, and they have no intention of stopping.
Power struggles, control, and uncontrollable desires make the story grow darker and darker, and despite everything, you keep reading.
More than once while reading, I caught myself thinking:
“I’m not defending this, but I’m curious.”
If you enjoy dark romance,
flawed characters, relationships where boundaries are deliberately pushed, and disturbing emotional dynamics, Ruthless is that book.
It’s not for everyone, but for those who love it, it’s highly addictive. 🖤
January 8, 2026
3.5 stars rounded up.
Ruthless is the fifth book in the Park Avenue Kings series and the second book in Shep‘s and Theo‘s Storyline.
This story began where Merciless (the fourth book) ended and for the first half of this book, I was on the edge of my seat! Shep in „I burn the world down for Theo“ mode was so hot! Theo finally confronting King? Yes, yes, yes! Shep and Theo building their relationship? I was here for it!
The only thing that was a bit confusing was the second part of the book. It felt anticlimactic… All the action was gone, everything settled and for my liking, everything was a bit too lovey-dovey after that. To me, it felt like a really prolonged epilogue and I‘m not sure if it fit the characters (at least it wasn‘t what I expected).
But overall, I loved Theo‘s and Shep‘s story and can‘t wait for the next book in the series.
Thank you to the authors and The Author Agency for sending me an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Ruthless is the fifth book in the Park Avenue Kings series and the second book in Shep‘s and Theo‘s Storyline.
This story began where Merciless (the fourth book) ended and for the first half of this book, I was on the edge of my seat! Shep in „I burn the world down for Theo“ mode was so hot! Theo finally confronting King? Yes, yes, yes! Shep and Theo building their relationship? I was here for it!
The only thing that was a bit confusing was the second part of the book. It felt anticlimactic… All the action was gone, everything settled and for my liking, everything was a bit too lovey-dovey after that. To me, it felt like a really prolonged epilogue and I‘m not sure if it fit the characters (at least it wasn‘t what I expected).
But overall, I loved Theo‘s and Shep‘s story and can‘t wait for the next book in the series.
Thank you to the authors and The Author Agency for sending me an ARC. All opinions are my own.
February 19, 2026
M/M || Part 2 of 2 || President’s Son X Prince of Monaco || Kidnapping || Established Relationship || Secret Organization || Suspense || Hurt/Comfort || Getting Married || Fluff
4.5⭐️
3🌶️
“It was Theo. It always had been. My forever had been right in front of me all this time—l'd just been looking in the wrong direction“.
ㅤ -ˋˏ ೃ༄ 𝒔𝒚𝒏𝒐𝒑𝒔𝒊𝒔 ೃ༄ ˎˊ-
Continues directly from the end of Merciless when Theo was taken from right under Shep’s and King’s noses.
ㅤ -ˋˏ ೃ༄ 𝒎𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 ೃ༄ ˎˊ-
‼️ Part 5 of Park Avenue Kings + Part 2 of a duet ‼️
I wanted the kidnap arc to last longer☹️ The reunion would’ve been so much sweeter that way.
I can’t lie but the reveal was a little bit unsatisfying. I won’t say who the bad guy is here but just know that the lead up to it was big and the reveal a bit bland.
The first book was better than this one if we’re looking at the two as two distinct books rather than one story arcing over two books. The first one had the mystery of the threats, the falling in love, the butting heads, just everything great. This entire book felt like it was all the final third act of a book. Especially when at like 60-70% in it started feeling like the fully epilogue where they’re just happy and things are okay. That said: it was still AMAZING to read. If I had a longer break between Merciless and this one I think I would’ve been a little disappointed, the first book is just that important here. So please make sure to read these two close together! I also LOVE epilogues where they’re happy and in love so I did not mind this book at all. (they get married here yippeeee)
The proposal in this book is one of the sweetest ones I’ve ever read🥺 It’s very lowkey and almost spur of the moment, but it is so good ❤️
Like come ooooooooon, they’re so in love💥💥
Theo walking down the aisle to I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers is actually so funny😭 (And it also being their first dance later, a slower version of it, is so sweet) The vows are so cheesy and cute and perfect ahhhhhhh❤️
And Shep’s now Shepherd Rinaldi!!!
I feel like I just smiled goofily like the last 40% of the book and I did not mind at all, I loved it😝
Theo and Shep’s story is the biggest one so far due to the length and how it was slowed down since it’s twice as long as the other couples, we really had time to see them fall in love and come together (pun fully intended). All the books are on the shorter side so this having two books to tell their story really helped solidifying their relationship for me.
I mentioned in my Merciless review that Shep tops more, but in this book it’s Theo who tops more so at the end they’re pretty balanced when it comes to positions. However I can’t lie, I like Shep as a top more🙈
But yeah.🥹 If you hate epilogue and the happily ever after, I’m afraid you will hate this book. But the rest of you fluff enjoyers: this is pure gold🫶🏻 Please read Merciless and this one, you won’t regret it!
Ps. They finally revealed Shep’s age: he’s the big four-oh aka 40 years old🫡
🍒 Characters: 🍒
👔Shepherd “Shep” Winchester III -> Shepard Rinaldi: 40 years old, sandy-brown hair, ice-blue eyes, taller than Theo, stubble, sculpted jaw, full lips, handsome, muscles, former president’s son, big cock, vers (but bottoms more in this book)
👑Theodore “Theo” Rinaldi: 37 years old, thick dark hair, blue eyes, stubble, angular handsome face, youngest Prince of Monaco, vers (but tops more in this book)
4.5⭐️
3🌶️
“It was Theo. It always had been. My forever had been right in front of me all this time—l'd just been looking in the wrong direction“.
ㅤ -ˋˏ ೃ༄ 𝒔𝒚𝒏𝒐𝒑𝒔𝒊𝒔 ೃ༄ ˎˊ-
Continues directly from the end of Merciless when Theo was taken from right under Shep’s and King’s noses.
ㅤ -ˋˏ ೃ༄ 𝒎𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 ೃ༄ ˎˊ-
‼️ Part 5 of Park Avenue Kings + Part 2 of a duet ‼️
“You were trying to get back to me?”
“With every single breath I took.”
I wanted the kidnap arc to last longer☹️ The reunion would’ve been so much sweeter that way.
I can’t lie but the reveal was a little bit unsatisfying. I won’t say who the bad guy is here but just know that the lead up to it was big and the reveal a bit bland.
The first book was better than this one if we’re looking at the two as two distinct books rather than one story arcing over two books. The first one had the mystery of the threats, the falling in love, the butting heads, just everything great. This entire book felt like it was all the final third act of a book. Especially when at like 60-70% in it started feeling like the fully epilogue where they’re just happy and things are okay. That said: it was still AMAZING to read. If I had a longer break between Merciless and this one I think I would’ve been a little disappointed, the first book is just that important here. So please make sure to read these two close together! I also LOVE epilogues where they’re happy and in love so I did not mind this book at all. (they get married here yippeeee)
I'd somehow managed to make Shepard O'Neil Winchester the third fall in love with me. Me. The most chaotic, reckless pain in the ass he knew. Guess he just needed a challenge.
The proposal in this book is one of the sweetest ones I’ve ever read🥺 It’s very lowkey and almost spur of the moment, but it is so good ❤️
“Non-negotiables of Theo and Shep. No traveling without the other (if longer than one night). No clothes allowed at the Rinaldi residence. No life-or-death secrets. One food fight a month to blow off steam (food of choice to alternate).” Shep paused then and licked over his lower lip, and I swallowed, knowing the last one was barely legible. “Never stop loving the other.”
Like come ooooooooon, they’re so in love💥💥
Theo walking down the aisle to I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers is actually so funny😭 (And it also being their first dance later, a slower version of it, is so sweet) The vows are so cheesy and cute and perfect ahhhhhhh❤️
And Shep’s now Shepherd Rinaldi!!!
This was like a royal fairytale, one I'd never imagined I would be a part of or even dreamed of wanting. I'd just happened to fall in love with a prince and made him my husband.
I feel like I just smiled goofily like the last 40% of the book and I did not mind at all, I loved it😝
Theo and Shep’s story is the biggest one so far due to the length and how it was slowed down since it’s twice as long as the other couples, we really had time to see them fall in love and come together (pun fully intended). All the books are on the shorter side so this having two books to tell their story really helped solidifying their relationship for me.
I mentioned in my Merciless review that Shep tops more, but in this book it’s Theo who tops more so at the end they’re pretty balanced when it comes to positions. However I can’t lie, I like Shep as a top more🙈
But yeah.🥹 If you hate epilogue and the happily ever after, I’m afraid you will hate this book. But the rest of you fluff enjoyers: this is pure gold🫶🏻 Please read Merciless and this one, you won’t regret it!
Ps. They finally revealed Shep’s age: he’s the big four-oh aka 40 years old🫡
🍒 Characters: 🍒
👔Shepherd “Shep” Winchester III -> Shepard Rinaldi: 40 years old, sandy-brown hair, ice-blue eyes, taller than Theo, stubble, sculpted jaw, full lips, handsome, muscles, former president’s son, big cock, vers (but bottoms more in this book)
👑Theodore “Theo” Rinaldi: 37 years old, thick dark hair, blue eyes, stubble, angular handsome face, youngest Prince of Monaco, vers (but tops more in this book)
December 24, 2025
Great conclusion for these two.
I love them so much. Book 2 feels like a quieter, more
love/family oriented book than book 1 but it is no less fun and impactful. And spicy - can’t forget about that spice!
Appreciate the quiet moments as these two grew as a couple. Loved spending more time with the other Kings and seeing them address a few things that really
needed to be addressed for the betterment of
the group. And thank god that cliffhanger from book 1 was handled and not dragged out too long - these authors can do no wrong! I didn’t think they could top my love for the princes but this series continues to deliver over and over again.
what a whirlwind but I’m so ready (and sad) for the final book!
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my
honest review.
I love them so much. Book 2 feels like a quieter, more
love/family oriented book than book 1 but it is no less fun and impactful. And spicy - can’t forget about that spice!
Appreciate the quiet moments as these two grew as a couple. Loved spending more time with the other Kings and seeing them address a few things that really
needed to be addressed for the betterment of
the group. And thank god that cliffhanger from book 1 was handled and not dragged out too long - these authors can do no wrong! I didn’t think they could top my love for the princes but this series continues to deliver over and over again.
what a whirlwind but I’m so ready (and sad) for the final book!
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my
honest review.
January 16, 2026
When Merciless first came out, i pounced on it because love this and the princes series but thank goodness i didn’t read past the first page because i found out it had a major cliffy. I’m one of those people who are not friends with cliffhangers 😂. So i waited and waited and finally Ruthless came out and only then i could read Merciless. Yay!!
Love love Shep and Theo. My fav couple in the Park Avenue Kings series so far. I can’t wait for Alesio’s story!!!
Love love Shep and Theo. My fav couple in the Park Avenue Kings series so far. I can’t wait for Alesio’s story!!!
January 21, 2026
Such a great series!
I will continue to obsess over all these men of Park Avenue. From the Princes to the Kings, it is everything you want from a steamy and swoony, with angst and suspense. And even some humor. These were all most present with this duet that follows Theo and Seth story. Sooo good and sooo excited for Alessio and Vitale’s book!
I will continue to obsess over all these men of Park Avenue. From the Princes to the Kings, it is everything you want from a steamy and swoony, with angst and suspense. And even some humor. These were all most present with this duet that follows Theo and Seth story. Sooo good and sooo excited for Alessio and Vitale’s book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
*ARC*
Simplemente perfecto. Un final así de feliz se merecían Theo y Shep RINALDI !!! Los amé mucho.
No puedo creer que solo quede un libro para que termine esta serie 😭
Simplemente perfecto. Un final así de feliz se merecían Theo y Shep RINALDI !!! Los amé mucho.
No puedo creer que solo quede un libro para que termine esta serie 😭
January 26, 2026
this was fine lol I dont think shep and Theo needed two books tbh I kind of skimmed the entire second half tho so maybe I just wasn’t in the mood for this!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Arc received via authors Patreon.
January 9, 2026
Amazon
Shep is going out of his mind trying to find Theo. King's here making things worse, but Shep is going to do whatever he can to find his man, even if that means making King leave. Once he finds him, he's gonna burn down the world to find who's targeting the man he's realized he's fallen for. When he finds them, he knows what has to be done...
It's unfortunate that it took something so drastic for Shep to finally realize how he felt for Theo, but whew, once he did, he never wavered. An American royal and a European prince sounds like a bad idea on paper, especially when they're as opposite as this pair, but they couldn't have made a more perfect couple, more delicious pair once they finally admitted their feelings. The Kings took a lot of hits this time around, and tension was sky high, but Shep and Theo finally coming together, and the ensuing fallout of that and the damage done to their group, actually brought them all together into an even tighter unit. My favorite King, Alessio, is getting his story next with Father Vitale, and I am so impatient for them now, even though it means the Kings series will be ending.
ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.
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Review of advance copy received from Autore
Small review: (LOVED IT!!! I can't wait to review better this book! I love you so much Brooke and Ella! Wow! Wow! Wow!)
ARC REVIEW
RUTHLESS (PARK AVENUE KINGS 5)
RELEASE: 8/1/2026
5⭐ 5🌶
This book is the best and sweetest of the whole series! I really loved Merciless but I was waiting for Ruthless because I needed answers after the end of Merciless. Brooke and Ella made an amazing job here, if I thought that Merciless was amazing and perfect yet, well… they decided to write a masterpiece in Ruthless! I can’t find the right words to express how much I loved this book, how perfect were Theo and Shepard and how amazing is their love story!
Since SAVAGE (PAK 1) I was waiting for Alessio’s book because I fell in love with him while reading the other books of the series, but reading Merciless I found out that Shepard O Neil Winchester III is an amazing character and I fell in love with him. I loved Theodore too, but in my opinion Shep is one of the best characters ever, best written by Ella and Brooke! He has everything I’d like in a man. I was surprised to fall in love so badly with him because I’m still waiting for Alessio!!! I’m sad because this amazing series is almost over, but I know for sure that Brooke and Ella won’t make us wait long for their new books! Can’t wait!
Thank you very much for the ARC COPY!
PS: Merciless and Ruthless is a duet book, so you must read them together, but first, you have to read the others books from Park Avenue Kings. (Small suggestion: start reading the Park Avenue Princes, especially book 6 because you can see a glimpse of Park Avenue Kings series!!)
-------
ARC REVIEW
RUTHLESS (PARK AVENUE KINGS 5)
RELEASE: 8/1/2026
5⭐ 5🌶
RECENSIONE:
Trovare le parole giuste per recensire questo libro e questa storia (comincia con Merciless) è difficile perché tutte le parole che potrei usare non renderebbero giustizia alla PERFEZIONE che è stata questa avventura.
Premetto dicendo che ADORO tutta la serie dei Kings (amore nato con il 6 e ultimo libro dei Park Avenue Princes).
Quando ho letto il primo libro di questa nuova serie, Savage, aspettavo solo la storia di Alessio Trentacapelli. Mi ha catturata da subito il suo personaggio e ho letto la serie amando tutti i Kings (dai quali vorrei farmi adottare).
C’è un segreto che riguarda un personaggio e leggere la serie è stato divertente perché volevo scoprire sempre di più. Poi è arrivato Merciless e… vi avevo detto che sto aspettando la storia di Alessio, no? Beh. Ho conosciuto meglio un altro King, Shepard O’Neil Winchester III e… mi sono innamorata di lui. È stato un amore improvviso, non pensavo mi catturasse in questo modo e soprattutto non credevo di innamorarmi perdutamente di lui.
È stato improvviso e non me lo aspettavo proprio perché ero già cotta di Alessio. E invece Brooke Blaine e Ella Frank sono riuscite a sviluppare un personaggio meraviglioso, è davvero il book boyfriend perfetto! Ha tutto quello che ho sempre desiderato in un uomo e vederlo con Theo Rinaldi, principe di Monaco, è stata un’avventura meravigliosa. I due formano una coppia perfetta, la dilogia (Merciless e Ruthless) è una delle storie meglio scritte, sviluppate e la coppia perfettamente bilanciata, perfetta sotto ogni aspetto!
Questa serie migliora ad ogni libro e ora non vedo l’ora di leggere il 6 (e purtroppo ultimo della serie) Unholy.
Il titolo è perfetto per la coppia protagonista 😏 e non vedo l’ora di leggerla.
Sono triste perché finirà questa serie (che ho adorato con tutto il mio cuore) ma so già che Ella e Brooke non mi lasceranno senza niente da leggere e… chissà, una nuova serie da zero? O una nuova serie che si collegherà ai Kings?
Ho altissime aspettative e so che Brooke e Ella non mi deluderanno! Vi amo! Grazie per la copia ARC. Alla prossima storia!
Nancy
ARC REVIEW
RUTHLESS (PARK AVENUE KINGS 5)
RELEASE: 8/1/2026
5⭐ 5🌶
This book is the best and sweetest of the whole series! I really loved Merciless but I was waiting for Ruthless because I needed answers after the end of Merciless. Brooke and Ella made an amazing job here, if I thought that Merciless was amazing and perfect yet, well… they decided to write a masterpiece in Ruthless! I can’t find the right words to express how much I loved this book, how perfect were Theo and Shepard and how amazing is their love story!
Since SAVAGE (PAK 1) I was waiting for Alessio’s book because I fell in love with him while reading the other books of the series, but reading Merciless I found out that Shepard O Neil Winchester III is an amazing character and I fell in love with him. I loved Theodore too, but in my opinion Shep is one of the best characters ever, best written by Ella and Brooke! He has everything I’d like in a man. I was surprised to fall in love so badly with him because I’m still waiting for Alessio!!! I’m sad because this amazing series is almost over, but I know for sure that Brooke and Ella won’t make us wait long for their new books! Can’t wait!
Thank you very much for the ARC COPY!
PS: Merciless and Ruthless is a duet book, so you must read them together, but first, you have to read the others books from Park Avenue Kings. (Small suggestion: start reading the Park Avenue Princes, especially book 6 because you can see a glimpse of Park Avenue Kings series!!)
-------
ARC REVIEW
RUTHLESS (PARK AVENUE KINGS 5)
RELEASE: 8/1/2026
5⭐ 5🌶
RECENSIONE:
Trovare le parole giuste per recensire questo libro e questa storia (comincia con Merciless) è difficile perché tutte le parole che potrei usare non renderebbero giustizia alla PERFEZIONE che è stata questa avventura.
Premetto dicendo che ADORO tutta la serie dei Kings (amore nato con il 6 e ultimo libro dei Park Avenue Princes).
Quando ho letto il primo libro di questa nuova serie, Savage, aspettavo solo la storia di Alessio Trentacapelli. Mi ha catturata da subito il suo personaggio e ho letto la serie amando tutti i Kings (dai quali vorrei farmi adottare).
C’è un segreto che riguarda un personaggio e leggere la serie è stato divertente perché volevo scoprire sempre di più. Poi è arrivato Merciless e… vi avevo detto che sto aspettando la storia di Alessio, no? Beh. Ho conosciuto meglio un altro King, Shepard O’Neil Winchester III e… mi sono innamorata di lui. È stato un amore improvviso, non pensavo mi catturasse in questo modo e soprattutto non credevo di innamorarmi perdutamente di lui.
È stato improvviso e non me lo aspettavo proprio perché ero già cotta di Alessio. E invece Brooke Blaine e Ella Frank sono riuscite a sviluppare un personaggio meraviglioso, è davvero il book boyfriend perfetto! Ha tutto quello che ho sempre desiderato in un uomo e vederlo con Theo Rinaldi, principe di Monaco, è stata un’avventura meravigliosa. I due formano una coppia perfetta, la dilogia (Merciless e Ruthless) è una delle storie meglio scritte, sviluppate e la coppia perfettamente bilanciata, perfetta sotto ogni aspetto!
Questa serie migliora ad ogni libro e ora non vedo l’ora di leggere il 6 (e purtroppo ultimo della serie) Unholy.
Il titolo è perfetto per la coppia protagonista 😏 e non vedo l’ora di leggerla.
Sono triste perché finirà questa serie (che ho adorato con tutto il mio cuore) ma so già che Ella e Brooke non mi lasceranno senza niente da leggere e… chissà, una nuova serie da zero? O una nuova serie che si collegherà ai Kings?
Ho altissime aspettative e so che Brooke e Ella non mi deluderanno! Vi amo! Grazie per la copia ARC. Alla prossima storia!
Nancy
January 15, 2026
Ruthless is exactly what I needed to complete the wild love affair between Shep and Theo. Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine upped their writing game (again!) with the intense conclusion to these two Libertine 'brothers's romance that starts with a race against time to find Theo and ends with a connection so strong, I wondered right along with our guys why it took them so long to really see the other. With the combination of wit, longing, passion that is out of this world wonderful and a love that consumes them both, I was a giddy fool (yes, once again) reading this gem.
What I really enjoyed was that these talented authors didn't waste time in reconnecting Shep with his man despite King's warnings and proved the bond they had was indestructible. It's almost as if both Theo and Shep were lost but when they finally saw the other as more than just a compadre, they were beautifully found. What Shep does to rescue his guy was fabulous and I don't mind saying that seeing King as a bit sheepish in his lack of confidence in both his former lover and in Theo added a realism that sets these authors' storytelling skills apart from so many others.
Frank and Blaine don't prey on these Libertine men's emotions but allow them to be vulnerable in the confines of their lair, with touching moments between them that counter all the brutality that comes with being in their world. The scene when they all decide to come clean with the doubts they may have had wrt Theo was wonderfully written and gave me a new appreciation for the bonds they have with each other. The way they all tease each other, yet are always filled with concern that each brother is well protected and has the life they want outside of their business, is truly a beautiful thing.
Plenty is still on the horizon for this crew as Frank and Blaine combine the intensifying love between Theo and Shep that includes a crazy time in Vegas with continued threats against their business and all and who they hold dear. Not to mention all that is plaguing Alessio, setting up what will undoubtedly be one heck of a great conclusion to this incredible series with his book, the last. We also get a few glimpses of the significant others of our guys, with East forever a standout and perhaps even a bit wise beyond his years, as some well-though-out words help bridge the gap between King and Theo. It's those little moments that make this series memorable.
Bittersweet that Unholy will be the final story for these Kings, I am just so thrilled I have been able to read the brilliant words of Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine. Ruthless had me laughing, tearing up and falling even harder for their Libertine men. They are all wicked in and out of the bedroom and their lives, albeit a bit unique, never fail to entertain.
5 huge stars!!
What I really enjoyed was that these talented authors didn't waste time in reconnecting Shep with his man despite King's warnings and proved the bond they had was indestructible. It's almost as if both Theo and Shep were lost but when they finally saw the other as more than just a compadre, they were beautifully found. What Shep does to rescue his guy was fabulous and I don't mind saying that seeing King as a bit sheepish in his lack of confidence in both his former lover and in Theo added a realism that sets these authors' storytelling skills apart from so many others.
Frank and Blaine don't prey on these Libertine men's emotions but allow them to be vulnerable in the confines of their lair, with touching moments between them that counter all the brutality that comes with being in their world. The scene when they all decide to come clean with the doubts they may have had wrt Theo was wonderfully written and gave me a new appreciation for the bonds they have with each other. The way they all tease each other, yet are always filled with concern that each brother is well protected and has the life they want outside of their business, is truly a beautiful thing.
Plenty is still on the horizon for this crew as Frank and Blaine combine the intensifying love between Theo and Shep that includes a crazy time in Vegas with continued threats against their business and all and who they hold dear. Not to mention all that is plaguing Alessio, setting up what will undoubtedly be one heck of a great conclusion to this incredible series with his book, the last. We also get a few glimpses of the significant others of our guys, with East forever a standout and perhaps even a bit wise beyond his years, as some well-though-out words help bridge the gap between King and Theo. It's those little moments that make this series memorable.
Bittersweet that Unholy will be the final story for these Kings, I am just so thrilled I have been able to read the brilliant words of Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine. Ruthless had me laughing, tearing up and falling even harder for their Libertine men. They are all wicked in and out of the bedroom and their lives, albeit a bit unique, never fail to entertain.
5 huge stars!!
January 10, 2026
LOVED the continuation of Shep and Theo. They are wonderful together and set the pages on fire with their chemistry. The love they have for each other runs deep and wild and it is no wonder they needed two books! Ella and Brooke left us with one heck of a cliffhanger at the end of Theo's book, and it was so intense seeing them apart and seeing what they would both do to get back to each other again. There were ups and downs and conflicts to solve but it was done so smoothly. I wanted a tad bit more when it came to finding the villain who captured Theo, more on page action before we got back to the healing and love. This part read a little flat to me honestly; however, I loved the way the Kings came together as always and as far as KING goes, well he had me all mixed up for a bit but no need to fear you will still love the man...and his Tweetlesweet and Tweetlebrat.
The flow of the story was good, the beginning started with a bang, the middle was up and down, and the end was epically sweet. Shep and Theo have so much in common and yet are so different; two men who hold heavy responsibility on their shoulders, who are public figures, and know what they want and how to get it. Their lives have brought on challenges that they have risen above, and they have been spoiled at times with everything they could ever need. However, it is just recently that Shep has gotten the one thing he's always WANTED, someone who would love him openly. And now with the attempts on Theo's life and the threat of more to come even with Theo back in the safety of his arms, the difference between what was when they were just friends and fellow brothers to now being deeply in love, it is making Shep fiercely determined to end the person who took his Prince. And Theo has that same desire but also needs to keep Shep safe once they know the threat runs deeper than The Kings could have imagined.
Theo and Shep really took my breath away with their love declarations and how intune they were with each other. How things went from "platonic" to soulmate was amazing and I LIVED for the steamy yet sweet moments between these two. Shep is such a sucker for Theo and Theo is just as bad for Shep. Their love was fast, fierce, and flaming hot. They were RUTHLESS for one another.
If you like a bit of action and intensity, high heat MM romance, this would be the book for you! It cannot be read as a standalone, but don't fear, the Kings are worth starting at the beginning. NOW WE GET ALESSIO!!!!
I read and reviewed a complimentary copy og this book provided by the other as part of being a patreon.
The flow of the story was good, the beginning started with a bang, the middle was up and down, and the end was epically sweet. Shep and Theo have so much in common and yet are so different; two men who hold heavy responsibility on their shoulders, who are public figures, and know what they want and how to get it. Their lives have brought on challenges that they have risen above, and they have been spoiled at times with everything they could ever need. However, it is just recently that Shep has gotten the one thing he's always WANTED, someone who would love him openly. And now with the attempts on Theo's life and the threat of more to come even with Theo back in the safety of his arms, the difference between what was when they were just friends and fellow brothers to now being deeply in love, it is making Shep fiercely determined to end the person who took his Prince. And Theo has that same desire but also needs to keep Shep safe once they know the threat runs deeper than The Kings could have imagined.
Theo and Shep really took my breath away with their love declarations and how intune they were with each other. How things went from "platonic" to soulmate was amazing and I LIVED for the steamy yet sweet moments between these two. Shep is such a sucker for Theo and Theo is just as bad for Shep. Their love was fast, fierce, and flaming hot. They were RUTHLESS for one another.
If you like a bit of action and intensity, high heat MM romance, this would be the book for you! It cannot be read as a standalone, but don't fear, the Kings are worth starting at the beginning. NOW WE GET ALESSIO!!!!
I read and reviewed a complimentary copy og this book provided by the other as part of being a patreon.
Review of advance copy
ARC Review
*mild spoilers ahead*
Ruthless picks up right after the cliffhanger from Merciless, the fourth book in this series and the first one of the duet about Theo and Shep.
We jump right in with Theo having just disappeared, and Shep desperately searching for him.
So, you really need to have read Merciless before diving into this story, it’s pretty much essential if you want to understand what’s going on.
Now, you’d think that with the stakes being so high, it would take a while to sort out the initial drama, aka, the kidnapping, but nope, Shep rescues Theo pretty quickly. After that, it’s partly about hunting down who was behind it and partly about Shep and Theo figuring out this new version of their relationship.
I really enjoyed this book. Shep and Theo are my favorite couple in the whole series. Their chemistry is off the charts, and what’s really refreshing is that there’s no huge power imbalance between them like in the other books. They’re both just so interesting and charismatic, whether together or on their own. Their banter and connection make the story super engaging, and the spicy scenes are really hot.
That said, I kind of feel like the whole plot could’ve been wrapped up just as well in one book, so I don’t really get why it had to be stretched out. Was it just because they’re both “kings”? I’m not sure, but I think I would’ve enjoyed it more if it was all in one go. Book two didn’t really bring much new information, to be honest.
Still, this is a really fun read. Like I said, both Theo and Shep are extremely charismatic and interesting, and the side plot is engaging enough to keep you hooked.
If anything, this book made me dislike Ty King even more. He already rubbed me the wrong way in his own book in the Princes’ series (I really thought he was unnecessary, and that Zac and East would’ve been better off on their own.)
But here, he’s just unbearable. Not only do we find out that his ex (the one he brushed off) was Shep, but he’s still trying to hang onto him and have a say in his personal life, even while flaunting his younger boyfriends right in his face.
Plus, he’s the reason everyone’s in danger, and in the end, there aren’t any real consequences for him.
He really drags the series down, which is a bummer because it’s otherwise a really entertaining read.
I’m super curious about Alessio’s story, though. It’s been teased since book one, and it sounds interesting enough that I’m willing to put up with King for one more book.
*mild spoilers ahead*
Ruthless picks up right after the cliffhanger from Merciless, the fourth book in this series and the first one of the duet about Theo and Shep.
We jump right in with Theo having just disappeared, and Shep desperately searching for him.
So, you really need to have read Merciless before diving into this story, it’s pretty much essential if you want to understand what’s going on.
Now, you’d think that with the stakes being so high, it would take a while to sort out the initial drama, aka, the kidnapping, but nope, Shep rescues Theo pretty quickly. After that, it’s partly about hunting down who was behind it and partly about Shep and Theo figuring out this new version of their relationship.
I really enjoyed this book. Shep and Theo are my favorite couple in the whole series. Their chemistry is off the charts, and what’s really refreshing is that there’s no huge power imbalance between them like in the other books. They’re both just so interesting and charismatic, whether together or on their own. Their banter and connection make the story super engaging, and the spicy scenes are really hot.
That said, I kind of feel like the whole plot could’ve been wrapped up just as well in one book, so I don’t really get why it had to be stretched out. Was it just because they’re both “kings”? I’m not sure, but I think I would’ve enjoyed it more if it was all in one go. Book two didn’t really bring much new information, to be honest.
Still, this is a really fun read. Like I said, both Theo and Shep are extremely charismatic and interesting, and the side plot is engaging enough to keep you hooked.
If anything, this book made me dislike Ty King even more. He already rubbed me the wrong way in his own book in the Princes’ series (I really thought he was unnecessary, and that Zac and East would’ve been better off on their own.)
But here, he’s just unbearable. Not only do we find out that his ex (the one he brushed off) was Shep, but he’s still trying to hang onto him and have a say in his personal life, even while flaunting his younger boyfriends right in his face.
Plus, he’s the reason everyone’s in danger, and in the end, there aren’t any real consequences for him.
He really drags the series down, which is a bummer because it’s otherwise a really entertaining read.
I’m super curious about Alessio’s story, though. It’s been teased since book one, and it sounds interesting enough that I’m willing to put up with King for one more book.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Shep and Theo together are couple perfection 😘💯👌My prayers were answered from my review of Merciless, "I wanted more. More of the deliciously naughty Prince Theo, more of the disciplined Shep and definitely more of them together." It is safe to say that Ruthless delivered on everything!!!
The stakes were raised because not only did Ruthless deliver more, but the unhinged and usually uncontrolled Theo was focused on catching the bad guy, he was focused on his rage over feeling betrayed by his brothers, but most importantly, he was focused on Shep and his ever developing feelings for him. Theo wasn't alone in this game changing state since Shep was right there with him. However, the normally ever-in-control Shep was losing it and it was divine. The man who forever had a plan was only focused on Theo, which meant whatever it took to keep Theo safe, happy, and in his arms forever is where Shep's focus was. What a switch it was to watch these two not only fall for one another, but to loosen their grips on their entire personas because they found comfort in someone else. Someone who would always be there and love every piece of who they already were.❤️
Merciless may have begun this adventure with all the danger, spice and tons of lusty naughtiness 🔥, but Ruthless kept it going until the very last page. Kicking and screaming isn't enough to describe how wonderful I felt as I lit up over these two because I was so delighted over the emotional wonderment over it all. I will say it again, this is the ultimate Park Avenue Kings power couple❤️ These two were delightful on every single emotional level and I loved it, loved it, loved it!!
The love and passion intensifies between Theo and Shep while the hunt continues to try and catch the person responsible for the attacks on them. Ruthless begins with soooo much danger licking at both Theo and Shep's heels that I was tearing through the pages, but I should have remembered that these are the Park Avenue Kings and by the end of the book, my heart would be beating out of my chest for a totally different reason. 😉 With that said, there is only one PA King left to fall and while I'm sad there is only one story to go, I still can't wait to find out what happens next.❤️
The stakes were raised because not only did Ruthless deliver more, but the unhinged and usually uncontrolled Theo was focused on catching the bad guy, he was focused on his rage over feeling betrayed by his brothers, but most importantly, he was focused on Shep and his ever developing feelings for him. Theo wasn't alone in this game changing state since Shep was right there with him. However, the normally ever-in-control Shep was losing it and it was divine. The man who forever had a plan was only focused on Theo, which meant whatever it took to keep Theo safe, happy, and in his arms forever is where Shep's focus was. What a switch it was to watch these two not only fall for one another, but to loosen their grips on their entire personas because they found comfort in someone else. Someone who would always be there and love every piece of who they already were.❤️
Merciless may have begun this adventure with all the danger, spice and tons of lusty naughtiness 🔥, but Ruthless kept it going until the very last page. Kicking and screaming isn't enough to describe how wonderful I felt as I lit up over these two because I was so delighted over the emotional wonderment over it all. I will say it again, this is the ultimate Park Avenue Kings power couple❤️ These two were delightful on every single emotional level and I loved it, loved it, loved it!!
The love and passion intensifies between Theo and Shep while the hunt continues to try and catch the person responsible for the attacks on them. Ruthless begins with soooo much danger licking at both Theo and Shep's heels that I was tearing through the pages, but I should have remembered that these are the Park Avenue Kings and by the end of the book, my heart would be beating out of my chest for a totally different reason. 😉 With that said, there is only one PA King left to fall and while I'm sad there is only one story to go, I still can't wait to find out what happens next.❤️
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
After the way the first half of Theo and Shep's story ended, I was desperate to find out where their duet was headed next. This book not only delivered a satisfying resolution to the kidnapping plotline, it also brought the Kings back together again and made me fall head over heels in love with Shep and Theo's relationship. Out of all the books in this series, this one felt like it was the biggest test of the bonds between all the Kings, and it was rough to see the strain Theo's situation left on all of them. Shep was the one who let his instincts guide him towards the path that would bring his lover home safely, but that wasn't a magic fix for the cracks that had formed in the brotherhood. While Theo and Shep's love was central to the storyline, the book spent a decent amount of time exploring how the Kings made amends and reunited as a group, and I really enjoyed getting to see those interactions. I felt like I was finally getting to see the human side to all these larger than life personalities, and it made me appreciate all of them even more than I already did. In terms of the romance, Shep and Theo were as swoony and steamy as they were in the first half of their duet. Theo's capture definitely served as a wake-up call for the two of them, and once they stopped worrying about what everyone else thought, nothing could get in the way of their relationship. I adored how fiercely they each stood up for the other in this book, whether that was to other Kings, meddling family members, or the press. The love these two have for each other is incredible, and I had so much fun getting to experience them being happy together and living as their truest selves. Some might say that these two went over the top towards the ending, but I was right there beside them cheering them on the entire time.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shep and Theo ... perfection
After the cliffhanger conclusion to Merciless I couldn't wait to get my hands on RUTHLESS. Once again Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine exceeded all my expectations. The emotions, spice, humour, intensity, all combining for sheer perfection.
RUTHLESS picks up where Merciless left off, with Theo captured and missing somewhere in the brazilian jungle. Going against King's orders Shep sets out determined to find, rescue and bring his man home. Even though they were lovers prior to Theo's capture, their relationship deepened, there was an acknowledgeent of feelings that brought them even closer. The romance intensified, the spice got hotter, and the sweet and soony moments multiplied. (food fight IFYKYK). I loved that they were no longer keeping their relationship a secret from King and the others, they were a couple in the truest sense of the word.
While Shep and Theo's relationship was at the core of the story, there was also the continuing hunt for the person who was trying to bring the group down. Why were they being targetted and who would be next? Naturally there is a twist I didn't see coming, but it definitely explained a lot! There was also the reparation of damaged friendship and the restoration of trust. Acceptance and forgiveness was also a theme throughout.
RUTHLESS was an amazing read. I loved how deeply Shep and Theo loved each other and were able to be open about themseves. I adored the final chapters, only their story could have the ending it did. Next up is Alessio's story, Unholy , I am dyingto sink my teeth into that one! Park Avenue Kings has been a thoroughly entertaining series and I will be sad to see it finished.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
After the cliffhanger conclusion to Merciless I couldn't wait to get my hands on RUTHLESS. Once again Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine exceeded all my expectations. The emotions, spice, humour, intensity, all combining for sheer perfection.
RUTHLESS picks up where Merciless left off, with Theo captured and missing somewhere in the brazilian jungle. Going against King's orders Shep sets out determined to find, rescue and bring his man home. Even though they were lovers prior to Theo's capture, their relationship deepened, there was an acknowledgeent of feelings that brought them even closer. The romance intensified, the spice got hotter, and the sweet and soony moments multiplied. (food fight IFYKYK). I loved that they were no longer keeping their relationship a secret from King and the others, they were a couple in the truest sense of the word.
While Shep and Theo's relationship was at the core of the story, there was also the continuing hunt for the person who was trying to bring the group down. Why were they being targetted and who would be next? Naturally there is a twist I didn't see coming, but it definitely explained a lot! There was also the reparation of damaged friendship and the restoration of trust. Acceptance and forgiveness was also a theme throughout.
RUTHLESS was an amazing read. I loved how deeply Shep and Theo loved each other and were able to be open about themseves. I adored the final chapters, only their story could have the ending it did. Next up is Alessio's story, Unholy , I am dyingto sink my teeth into that one! Park Avenue Kings has been a thoroughly entertaining series and I will be sad to see it finished.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC Review✨
It was so easy to fall in love with Shep and Theo in Merciless. They are such opposites but they work so well together because of it. Shep gives Theo structure and the reminder to not always act impulsively, while Theo brings out Shep’s ability to let loose and play. Fair warning, if you haven’t read Merciless then don’t read this review since Ruthless is a sequel and it will spoil the ending for you, which would be a shame.
We are left hanging with the dramatic news that Theo has been kidnapped and his tracker removed, so naturally Ruthless opens with Shep trekking and chopping through the jungle trying to find him. King, who shouldn’t be there, is convinced that Theo has already been taken away and that they should go back to the safe house and regroup. Shep quickly shuts him down and sends him away, following his gut feeling that Theo is still alive and close.
Theo is, in fact, being held hostage in a cave in the area waiting for transport. While pretending to be knocked out he gathers a lead on who might be behind the attacks. He finally attempts an escape from the mercenary holding him and just when he thinks he will be shot, Shep rescues him.
There is a lot of work that goes into following Theo’s lead and the Kings are finally able to draw out the attacker and squash the danger. It is during this that Shep and Theo’s relationship becomes public. As they are both public figures it causes quite a stir, but both their families and brothers are happy for them. I won’t spoil the ending, but it’s 100% perfect for these two and so swoonworthy! I love that the authors split their story into a duo because it deserved to be. #ruthless #friendstolovers #workplaceromance #secretromance #royalty
It was so easy to fall in love with Shep and Theo in Merciless. They are such opposites but they work so well together because of it. Shep gives Theo structure and the reminder to not always act impulsively, while Theo brings out Shep’s ability to let loose and play. Fair warning, if you haven’t read Merciless then don’t read this review since Ruthless is a sequel and it will spoil the ending for you, which would be a shame.
We are left hanging with the dramatic news that Theo has been kidnapped and his tracker removed, so naturally Ruthless opens with Shep trekking and chopping through the jungle trying to find him. King, who shouldn’t be there, is convinced that Theo has already been taken away and that they should go back to the safe house and regroup. Shep quickly shuts him down and sends him away, following his gut feeling that Theo is still alive and close.
Theo is, in fact, being held hostage in a cave in the area waiting for transport. While pretending to be knocked out he gathers a lead on who might be behind the attacks. He finally attempts an escape from the mercenary holding him and just when he thinks he will be shot, Shep rescues him.
There is a lot of work that goes into following Theo’s lead and the Kings are finally able to draw out the attacker and squash the danger. It is during this that Shep and Theo’s relationship becomes public. As they are both public figures it causes quite a stir, but both their families and brothers are happy for them. I won’t spoil the ending, but it’s 100% perfect for these two and so swoonworthy! I love that the authors split their story into a duo because it deserved to be. #ruthless #friendstolovers #workplaceromance #secretromance #royalty
January 9, 2026
4.25 Stars!
This is the second book in a duet about Theo and Shep, two of the Park Avenue Kings. You definitely need to read Merciless before this one, since Ruthless picks up right where Merciless ended. There will be spoilers ahead, so beware if you read further.
Theo and Shep barely got to acknowledge their new relationship before Theo went missing. I was glad that neither Shep nor Theo gave up, and they survived this newest attempt on Theo. Like both men, I was angry at King for a while, but I was glad that Shep let Theo have his moment alone with King. I loved that Easton gave Shep a different perspective on how King was doing with everything, even as it hurt for a myriad of reasons. I was ecstatic with how they all finally cleared the air and sorted through the changes not only within their group, but also personally. I loved how Shep was steadfast about Theo and proudly stood by him. I was glad that Shep had someone who was happy to be with him in public like he deserved.
While I was a little unhappy with how fast the mystery was solved in this one and how quickly the culprit was dealt with, I did like seeing Theo and Shep making their own way through the changes their relationship brought. There were plenty of funny moments as Theo definitely brought chaos and spontaneity to Shep's life.
On a final note, I hated seeing how Alessio was throughout this book. I wish that he had opened up to Shep at least a little, but now I definitely can't wait for Unholy to come out. I've wanted to know what the deal is with Alessio and Father Vitale since the first book of this series.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
This is the second book in a duet about Theo and Shep, two of the Park Avenue Kings. You definitely need to read Merciless before this one, since Ruthless picks up right where Merciless ended. There will be spoilers ahead, so beware if you read further.
Theo and Shep barely got to acknowledge their new relationship before Theo went missing. I was glad that neither Shep nor Theo gave up, and they survived this newest attempt on Theo. Like both men, I was angry at King for a while, but I was glad that Shep let Theo have his moment alone with King. I loved that Easton gave Shep a different perspective on how King was doing with everything, even as it hurt for a myriad of reasons. I was ecstatic with how they all finally cleared the air and sorted through the changes not only within their group, but also personally. I loved how Shep was steadfast about Theo and proudly stood by him. I was glad that Shep had someone who was happy to be with him in public like he deserved.
While I was a little unhappy with how fast the mystery was solved in this one and how quickly the culprit was dealt with, I did like seeing Theo and Shep making their own way through the changes their relationship brought. There were plenty of funny moments as Theo definitely brought chaos and spontaneity to Shep's life.
On a final note, I hated seeing how Alessio was throughout this book. I wish that he had opened up to Shep at least a little, but now I definitely can't wait for Unholy to come out. I've wanted to know what the deal is with Alessio and Father Vitale since the first book of this series.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
January 9, 2026
So, here we have part two of the duet within the Park Avenue Kings series, which deals with the story between Shep and Theo. Ruthless picks up right where Merciless leaves off, with Shep more determined than ever to find Theo and a King even more... more...
Okay, I'm going to take a moment to repeat something I've already said several times. I know I'm in the minority, and I know many of you probably won't like this, but King? OMG, I just want to... grrrr. I didn't like him in his own story, and I liked him even less in this one. And there's nothing he does or can do that will change my mind. He's simply insufferable, egocentric, and selfish. And while he tried—and I emphasize "tried"—to apologize for some of his actions, I think if he truly took responsibility for his mistakes, he wouldn't have waited for others to confront him about them. So... that.
Okay, as for the story itself, it's everything you'd expect from these authors. Entertaining, lots of banter, many steamy scenes, and some suspense.
But, for me, it was missing something. And that's why I only gave it 4 stars. The resolution of the mystery about who was behind all the attacks ended up being too easy. And getting rid of the problem was even easier. I was expecting something more. A little more action? I mean, Shep and Theo's story needed two books to develop, and only 4 or 5 pages to discover and solve the mystery?
Anyway, it's still a really good story, and the MCs are two of my favorites, especially Theo. And of course, anything from these authors is always recommended. If you want stories to enjoy and have a good time, you can't go wrong with them. You have plenty to choose from!
I was given an advance copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
Okay, I'm going to take a moment to repeat something I've already said several times. I know I'm in the minority, and I know many of you probably won't like this, but King? OMG, I just want to... grrrr. I didn't like him in his own story, and I liked him even less in this one. And there's nothing he does or can do that will change my mind. He's simply insufferable, egocentric, and selfish. And while he tried—and I emphasize "tried"—to apologize for some of his actions, I think if he truly took responsibility for his mistakes, he wouldn't have waited for others to confront him about them. So... that.
Okay, as for the story itself, it's everything you'd expect from these authors. Entertaining, lots of banter, many steamy scenes, and some suspense.
But, for me, it was missing something. And that's why I only gave it 4 stars. The resolution of the mystery about who was behind all the attacks ended up being too easy. And getting rid of the problem was even easier. I was expecting something more. A little more action? I mean, Shep and Theo's story needed two books to develop, and only 4 or 5 pages to discover and solve the mystery?
Anyway, it's still a really good story, and the MCs are two of my favorites, especially Theo. And of course, anything from these authors is always recommended. If you want stories to enjoy and have a good time, you can't go wrong with them. You have plenty to choose from!
I was given an advance copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
January 8, 2026
Ruthless is the 2nd book of a duet. Ist being Merciless
M/M Romance
Ruthless is a high-stakes, emotionally intense romance that blends danger, devotion, and undeniable chemistry.
Theo the prince of Monaco, a rebellious prince, lives to push boundaries,especially those set by the powerful secret society known as the Kings. Shep, America’s Son, is the exact opposite: disciplined, controlled, and unwavering in his duty. When Theo’s life comes under serious threat, Shep is assigned as his bodyguard… and nothing about this pairing is simple.
What begins as sharp banter and purely physical encounters quickly deepens as the danger escalates. Theo refuses to make things easy, constantly provoking Shep, while Shep struggles to maintain control as his feelings grow stronger. The tension,both emotional and suspenseful, is palpable, and you can feel the weight Shep carries as he tries to protect Theo at all costs.
The chemistry between these two is electric. Shep is the calm to Theo’s chaos, while Theo cracks open parts of Shep that have long been locked away. They understand each other instinctively, how to tease, how to soothe, and how to ground one another when everything feels like it’s spiraling. Their connection feels natural, intense, and deeply earned.
The suspense kept me hooked, the emotional development surprised me, and the intimacy? Absolutely scorching. 🔥
Ruthless is gripping, passionate, and full of heart,a perfect blend of danger and devotion.
Recommended for M/M romance lovers who enjoy bodyguard tropes, royalty, and high tension.
M/M Romance
Ruthless is a high-stakes, emotionally intense romance that blends danger, devotion, and undeniable chemistry.
Theo the prince of Monaco, a rebellious prince, lives to push boundaries,especially those set by the powerful secret society known as the Kings. Shep, America’s Son, is the exact opposite: disciplined, controlled, and unwavering in his duty. When Theo’s life comes under serious threat, Shep is assigned as his bodyguard… and nothing about this pairing is simple.
What begins as sharp banter and purely physical encounters quickly deepens as the danger escalates. Theo refuses to make things easy, constantly provoking Shep, while Shep struggles to maintain control as his feelings grow stronger. The tension,both emotional and suspenseful, is palpable, and you can feel the weight Shep carries as he tries to protect Theo at all costs.
The chemistry between these two is electric. Shep is the calm to Theo’s chaos, while Theo cracks open parts of Shep that have long been locked away. They understand each other instinctively, how to tease, how to soothe, and how to ground one another when everything feels like it’s spiraling. Their connection feels natural, intense, and deeply earned.
The suspense kept me hooked, the emotional development surprised me, and the intimacy? Absolutely scorching. 🔥
Ruthless is gripping, passionate, and full of heart,a perfect blend of danger and devotion.
Recommended for M/M romance lovers who enjoy bodyguard tropes, royalty, and high tension.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely everything I wanted from the conclusion of Theo and Shep, as well as so much more!
Shep in full on Alpha Liam Neeson mode to hunt down his man.... I was living for it. Theo being his chaotic self, yet being all sweet for Shep.... Loved it!! These two took 'touch him and die' as a literal interpretation and it was just everything I needed for them.
These two together may not make much sense on paper, but they are actually my favourite Brella couple since Halo and Viper.
The possessiveness was top tier - I am weak for a possessive Alpha MC but here we get two so I was living my absolute best reading life. The fun they had together had me smiling so much, I will never look at Chinese food again without a little thought for Shep and Theo. Their love was so strong and the way they face everything together was so bloody fun to read.
King being put in his place was EPIC every time and I loved Theo and Shep's loathing of East.
I'm very excited for Alessio's book as the final one in the series, and before I knew about Theo and Shep I would have said he was in the running to be my favourite character of this series, so I have high expectations now.
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Brooke Blaine and Ella Frank, and this is my honest review
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HRCYED2: The Last 10 Years / New Releases
Shep in full on Alpha Liam Neeson mode to hunt down his man.... I was living for it. Theo being his chaotic self, yet being all sweet for Shep.... Loved it!! These two took 'touch him and die' as a literal interpretation and it was just everything I needed for them.
These two together may not make much sense on paper, but they are actually my favourite Brella couple since Halo and Viper.
The possessiveness was top tier - I am weak for a possessive Alpha MC but here we get two so I was living my absolute best reading life. The fun they had together had me smiling so much, I will never look at Chinese food again without a little thought for Shep and Theo. Their love was so strong and the way they face everything together was so bloody fun to read.
King being put in his place was EPIC every time and I loved Theo and Shep's loathing of East.
I'm very excited for Alessio's book as the final one in the series, and before I knew about Theo and Shep I would have said he was in the running to be my favourite character of this series, so I have high expectations now.
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Brooke Blaine and Ella Frank, and this is my honest review
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HRCYED2: The Last 10 Years / New Releases
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