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Opposites Attract #2
Speak Now
Declan
I’ve always been angry, always had a short fuse. It got worse when my best friend was killed. I avenged his death, but it made me hollow. I had no one to count on.
When my life is threatened, I have no one to turn to. Not until Nico invades my life and promises to keep my secrets. Once I have him, there’s no way I’m letting him go.
Nico
One of my favorite things to do? Piss off the younger Whitlock. He makes it too easy. When I see him in my favorite kink club, I decided to push his buttons. What happens next is a night I’ll never forget.
And I can’t keep Declan off my mind.
When I find out he’s being blackmailed with no one to help him untangle that web, I offer to help him out while keeping it a secret from Carter, his older, overprotective brother.
As we grow closer, I vow to do anything to keep him safe.
Anything.
Speak Now is a mild annoyance to lovers, mafia son and bodyguard, grumpy/sunshine MM romance with two men that shouldn’t fall in love, but do.
I’ve always been angry, always had a short fuse. It got worse when my best friend was killed. I avenged his death, but it made me hollow. I had no one to count on.
When my life is threatened, I have no one to turn to. Not until Nico invades my life and promises to keep my secrets. Once I have him, there’s no way I’m letting him go.
Nico
One of my favorite things to do? Piss off the younger Whitlock. He makes it too easy. When I see him in my favorite kink club, I decided to push his buttons. What happens next is a night I’ll never forget.
And I can’t keep Declan off my mind.
When I find out he’s being blackmailed with no one to help him untangle that web, I offer to help him out while keeping it a secret from Carter, his older, overprotective brother.
As we grow closer, I vow to do anything to keep him safe.
Anything.
Speak Now is a mild annoyance to lovers, mafia son and bodyguard, grumpy/sunshine MM romance with two men that shouldn’t fall in love, but do.
- GenresM M RomanceDark
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 26, 2026
9 people are currently reading
380 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 25, 2026
"A throat clearing has us breaking apart, Declan pushing me off hard until I land a few feet from him. I look up to see Kai, his expression a mix of incredulity and humor. His liops twitch as he stuffs his hands in his pants pockets. "You don't kiss me like that when we spar, Nico."
Speak Now is book two in the Opposites Attract series by R.S. McKenzie, which follows on from With This Ring (which I highly recommend!) with the series focusing on the Whitlock and Carter mafia families.
This is Declan and Nico's story.
What To Expect:
🖤MM mafia romance
🖤Bodyguard/mafia son
🖤Dark themes
🖤Violence and loss
🖤Grumpy/sunshine
🖤First times
🖤All the spice
🖤HEA
Loved both these boys!
Can't wait for Gavin and Percy in To Love and To Cherish.
4 stars
Speak Now is book two in the Opposites Attract series by R.S. McKenzie, which follows on from With This Ring (which I highly recommend!) with the series focusing on the Whitlock and Carter mafia families.
This is Declan and Nico's story.
What To Expect:
🖤MM mafia romance
🖤Bodyguard/mafia son
🖤Dark themes
🖤Violence and loss
🖤Grumpy/sunshine
🖤First times
🖤All the spice
🖤HEA
Loved both these boys!
Can't wait for Gavin and Percy in To Love and To Cherish.
4 stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
Speak Now — R.S. McKenzie
What does a person want from the one standing in front of them?
Of course, to be loved, to be seen, to feel understood.😌
That’s exactly what Declan had been searching for for years.
Beneath his grumpiness, his anger, and his hard shell, all he ever wanted was for someone to truly see him.
And Nico… did that from the right place, in the right way 🖤
I felt their emotions down to my bones.
Nico tore down Declan’s walls one by one and never gave up.
I completely fell in love with Declan — grumpy yet so incredibly sweet!😍
The enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Nico and Declan was done amazingly well.🔪😈
The way Nico approached Declan carried pure daddy energy 🖤
It didn’t take him long to realize that what looked like an ordinary stone covered in mud was actually a diamond.
And the spicy scenes… absolutely perfect.
I call it the chef’s touch — well-balanced, impactful, and elevating the emotional intensity of the story 🌶️✨
Even though this is the second book in the series, the story strongly maintains its connection to the first book and successfully ties the plot together.
I'll just say that I love this book..
What does a person want from the one standing in front of them?
Of course, to be loved, to be seen, to feel understood.😌
That’s exactly what Declan had been searching for for years.
Beneath his grumpiness, his anger, and his hard shell, all he ever wanted was for someone to truly see him.
And Nico… did that from the right place, in the right way 🖤
I felt their emotions down to my bones.
Nico tore down Declan’s walls one by one and never gave up.
I completely fell in love with Declan — grumpy yet so incredibly sweet!😍
The enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Nico and Declan was done amazingly well.🔪😈
The way Nico approached Declan carried pure daddy energy 🖤
It didn’t take him long to realize that what looked like an ordinary stone covered in mud was actually a diamond.
And the spicy scenes… absolutely perfect.
I call it the chef’s touch — well-balanced, impactful, and elevating the emotional intensity of the story 🌶️✨
Even though this is the second book in the series, the story strongly maintains its connection to the first book and successfully ties the plot together.
I'll just say that I love this book..
Review of advance copy received from Author
Title: Speak Now (ARC)
Author: @rs_mckenzie_author
⭐ Rating:🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 /5
Since I read With This Ring, I knew Nico and Deck was going to be one of my favorites. The way their small banter and gruffs in the first book. Deck, this man deserves all the love and hugs. Nico was definitely everything Deck needed that he didn't know he needed! This book was phenomenal in all aspects of banter, spice, character growth and plot.
Amazing read add it to your TBR right now. But make sure you check it out, With this Ring to know Kai and Carter's story.
Of course check your triggers and happy reading!
#readingwithshadow #speaknow #bookrecs #bookreviews #followformore
Author: @rs_mckenzie_author
⭐ Rating:🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 /5
Since I read With This Ring, I knew Nico and Deck was going to be one of my favorites. The way their small banter and gruffs in the first book. Deck, this man deserves all the love and hugs. Nico was definitely everything Deck needed that he didn't know he needed! This book was phenomenal in all aspects of banter, spice, character growth and plot.
Amazing read add it to your TBR right now. But make sure you check it out, With this Ring to know Kai and Carter's story.
Of course check your triggers and happy reading!
#readingwithshadow #speaknow #bookrecs #bookreviews #followformore
January 18, 2026
Speak Now - RS McKenzie
5/5✨🌟
* SPOILERS *
This is the second book in this amazing series. I really thought that the first book in this series was my favorite with Carter and Kai but geez, Declan and Nico take it a whole other level and I was here for it. I love me a good mafia book with all the possessive vibes.
Annoyance to lovers is where it’s at. The little snide comments or even the playful banter had me eating this book up. Declan had me laughing with his dry humor or as Nico says… “his signature scowl”. Also, I absolutely loved the most sweetest moment in the shower scene when Nico washes Declan but damn… those survival words. Geez. I was an emotional roller coaster right there.
I’m not going to give too much away because you just have to read it! I am loving this series how each couple has made me fall in love with them.
I love the found family especially and how they truly look out for one another. I was jumping for joy when Declan and Carter finally had a very needed conversation and I even teared up because ugh, these two have been through it. I also really enjoyed the conversation that Nico and Carter had because protective vibes all around.
I love Nico and his protective ways. The little pet names had me smiling so hard because ugh, pet names and endearments are everything.
All in all, I need more from this series.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
5/5✨🌟
* SPOILERS *
This is the second book in this amazing series. I really thought that the first book in this series was my favorite with Carter and Kai but geez, Declan and Nico take it a whole other level and I was here for it. I love me a good mafia book with all the possessive vibes.
Annoyance to lovers is where it’s at. The little snide comments or even the playful banter had me eating this book up. Declan had me laughing with his dry humor or as Nico says… “his signature scowl”. Also, I absolutely loved the most sweetest moment in the shower scene when Nico washes Declan but damn… those survival words. Geez. I was an emotional roller coaster right there.
I’m not going to give too much away because you just have to read it! I am loving this series how each couple has made me fall in love with them.
I love the found family especially and how they truly look out for one another. I was jumping for joy when Declan and Carter finally had a very needed conversation and I even teared up because ugh, these two have been through it. I also really enjoyed the conversation that Nico and Carter had because protective vibes all around.
I love Nico and his protective ways. The little pet names had me smiling so hard because ugh, pet names and endearments are everything.
All in all, I need more from this series.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you R.S. McKenzie for a copy of this book. This review is entirely my own.
Declan is here and this baby brought the pain. Declan isn't seen by his brother and father. They see him as someone who shoots first and asks questions later. They are not wrong but there is so much more to Declan.
Nico is intrigued by Declan and is the only person that seems to see what Declan tries so hard to hide, he sees what others do not see. One chance night will change their lives. When Nico finds out that Declan is being blackmailed, he steps in to help. He does so much more than just offering his help. He shows Declan that he is trustworthy and will have his back.
When something happens, one of them will go to hell and back to show the other how he feels, while the other will fight his way back to the man he loves.
This book was full of spice, of twists and two men that will fight each other and everyone that tries to come between them. This book will grip you from the moment you start reading but it will not let go. There was a point on the book that was extremely hard to read just because of what was happening. I was on the edge of my seat and when it ended, all I could do was sit there think about these boys and this story.
Declan is here and this baby brought the pain. Declan isn't seen by his brother and father. They see him as someone who shoots first and asks questions later. They are not wrong but there is so much more to Declan.
Nico is intrigued by Declan and is the only person that seems to see what Declan tries so hard to hide, he sees what others do not see. One chance night will change their lives. When Nico finds out that Declan is being blackmailed, he steps in to help. He does so much more than just offering his help. He shows Declan that he is trustworthy and will have his back.
When something happens, one of them will go to hell and back to show the other how he feels, while the other will fight his way back to the man he loves.
This book was full of spice, of twists and two men that will fight each other and everyone that tries to come between them. This book will grip you from the moment you start reading but it will not let go. There was a point on the book that was extremely hard to read just because of what was happening. I was on the edge of my seat and when it ended, all I could do was sit there think about these boys and this story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Second in series (Opposites Attract), but can be read as a standalone. Dislike to lovers. Grumpy/sunshine. Dual POV. Heed content warnings.
Declan has a reputation as the hothead in the Whitlock crime family, and maybe he does kill first and ask questions later, but he’s struggling and no one sees it except Nico. He may not be Declan’s bodyguard, but Nico does feel a protective pull towards Declan, especially once he finds out Declan is being blackmailed.
There was something about these two giving in to their attraction and then feeling immediately possessive that made this such a fun story. I enjoyed that there wasn’t a power imbalance between them and that both could be vicious but also caring. There was plenty of steam but also the real connection of Nico’s kindness and respect filling Declan’s need to be acknowledged as capable but also supported. My favorite parts are when they both internally acknowledge that they aren’t planning to let the other go and the absolute commitment.
Declan has a reputation as the hothead in the Whitlock crime family, and maybe he does kill first and ask questions later, but he’s struggling and no one sees it except Nico. He may not be Declan’s bodyguard, but Nico does feel a protective pull towards Declan, especially once he finds out Declan is being blackmailed.
There was something about these two giving in to their attraction and then feeling immediately possessive that made this such a fun story. I enjoyed that there wasn’t a power imbalance between them and that both could be vicious but also caring. There was plenty of steam but also the real connection of Nico’s kindness and respect filling Declan’s need to be acknowledged as capable but also supported. My favorite parts are when they both internally acknowledge that they aren’t planning to let the other go and the absolute commitment.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If barbed quips, trading punches and general dislike could be considered love languages...
Declan and Nico were never meant to be friends, let alone lovers. Members of rival families that become a blended family leads to a fire that burns hotter than either of them could have imagined.
Declan has walls no one can see see, and is capable of hiding his pain from those that are supposed to be closest to him. He loves and hates that Nico is the one person that can see what he's hiding.
Nico offers support and solice to Declan at a time when Declan is drowning. Declan doesn't trust it, and doesn't want it. Or does he? Nico continues to show up, waiting for Declan to let him in.
One night turns into more, but is it just physical? Are they capable of finding happiness with each other? Or will unknown threats rip them apart before they have a chance to figure it out? Declan and Nico fight for each other and fight for their happiness. The battle isn't short and definitely isn't easy. But their happy ever after is worth every bruise and broken bone.
Declan and Nico were never meant to be friends, let alone lovers. Members of rival families that become a blended family leads to a fire that burns hotter than either of them could have imagined.
Declan has walls no one can see see, and is capable of hiding his pain from those that are supposed to be closest to him. He loves and hates that Nico is the one person that can see what he's hiding.
Nico offers support and solice to Declan at a time when Declan is drowning. Declan doesn't trust it, and doesn't want it. Or does he? Nico continues to show up, waiting for Declan to let him in.
One night turns into more, but is it just physical? Are they capable of finding happiness with each other? Or will unknown threats rip them apart before they have a chance to figure it out? Declan and Nico fight for each other and fight for their happiness. The battle isn't short and definitely isn't easy. But their happy ever after is worth every bruise and broken bone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This series is seriously amazing! I loved With This Ring, and Speak Now was just as good! I adore Declan, sweet grumpy Declan. His heartbreak from losing Hendrix broke my heart. You could feel it right down to your bones. It showed a softer side of Declan. He was so strong and could definitely take care of himself, but I loved how he needed Nico in so many ways. Nico's protective nature was probably my favorite part of this book. It was there and steadfast but never overwhelming. They are so perfect for each other!
I absolutely adored how RS McKenzie can immerse you in a world, and characters and make you feel like you are right there in on the action. This story had me tearing up, laughing, and feeling totally justified in feeling a little unhinged. I will forever read anything RS writes!
If you are looking for a fun, fast paced MM mafia romance this is DEFINITELY a book for you!
I absolutely adored how RS McKenzie can immerse you in a world, and characters and make you feel like you are right there in on the action. This story had me tearing up, laughing, and feeling totally justified in feeling a little unhinged. I will forever read anything RS writes!
If you are looking for a fun, fast paced MM mafia romance this is DEFINITELY a book for you!
January 17, 2026
This was a ride! I’ve been curious about Declan since With This Ring (book 1 in this series) and I’m so glad we got his story. I loved seeing the other sides of Declan and getting to know him a bit more beyond the hothead he was made out to be. Nico was perfect for Declan! He never tried to change him, he just sat back and observed giving him the ability to learn Declan and once he did he was able to connect with him. I enjoyed their relationship dynamic. The banter was fun and the shift in relationship was also fun to see! I’m excited about book three! One slightly jumpy but ever dependable character has me intrigued!!
❤️ARC REVIEW🤍
☑️ Trigger Warnings.
❤️ARC REVIEW🤍
☑️ Trigger Warnings.
January 20, 2026
Holy!! My brain can’t even process properly right now. This book was sooo good!! Declan and Nico were pure fire!! Their chemistry was incredible, even when they “hated” each other. The way they had each other’s back’s and were there for one another was incredible. If you are a little squeamish then you might want to skim some of the captive scenes, bc seriously they will make you cringe, but they made you feel what the characters were going through. Also loved seeing more of Carter and Kai and I cannot wait for the next book!!
I received this ARC from the author and these are my honest opinions.
I received this ARC from the author and these are my honest opinions.
January 24, 2026
This was my first read by the author. I just purchased book #1 which will be my next read. I loved Declan and Nico together, what a great ‘opposites attract’ story! Definitely some dark mafia themes, which I enjoy, but may be hard for others. Great read, am heading on over to read Carter and Kai’s story now. While this book can be read on its own, reading book #1 first will definitely give this one some context. There are some missing words here and there in the book, but that was a minor distraction.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you for the book; here is my honest opinion:
5⭐️This was great, I love a dark and gritty romance that really delivers on the darkness. It also has two main characters that achieve a balance between likable, uniquely charming, sometimes terrifying, violent, and vulnerable. It’s pretty rare, and made this a definite standout read, I could not put it down. Nico and Declan are violent, flawed but also funny, and genuinely romantic. Loved it!
5⭐️This was great, I love a dark and gritty romance that really delivers on the darkness. It also has two main characters that achieve a balance between likable, uniquely charming, sometimes terrifying, violent, and vulnerable. It’s pretty rare, and made this a definite standout read, I could not put it down. Nico and Declan are violent, flawed but also funny, and genuinely romantic. Loved it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Declan was a riot but it was also heartbreaking to watch him spiral because of Hendrix's death. No one paid attention except Nico. The way Nico handled and cared for Declan was sweet and it was good for someone to finally give him peace. This was a great read I didn't know I needed. As always another great read from RS!
January 21, 2026
Okay, I just loved this book!! Nico and Declan’s story was so good, and I loved watching their relationship unfold. Their interactions and chemistry were everything. RS McKenzie truly does mafia romance so well!! The stories are just perfect. I basically couldn’t put this book down for anything, and I totally recommend it!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think this will be a top read already for 2026! I loved Declan in the first book, just so misunderstood and even more in this book. Nico just gets him! And the banter is just so good! Love Declan and Hendix friendship. Excited for Gavins book.
January 22, 2026
This was amazing. Loved it all! Can’t wait for the next one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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