What do you think?
Rate this book
THE BAD BROTHER
PERFECT HAS ALWAYS BEEN THE GOAL
The perfect daughter.
The perfect girlfriend.
The perfect career.
The perfect life.
Goal achieved… or so I thought.
When I suddenly find myself single, homeless, and desperate for a place to lick my wounds, I sign a lease for the first decent place I can find. Before I know it, I’m living above a bar on the wrong side of the river and trading insults with its infuriatingly hot owner. Jensen Barret is as far from perfect as you can get. He’s beyond arrogant. Surly and rude. Keeps questionable company and makes even more questionable choices—but he makes a mean 3AM grilled cheese and even when he’s making my life difficult, being with him is the only time I feel free. Jensen’s made it clear he doesn’t want me around. Doesn’t trust my kind. Doesn’t see me as anything more than a poor little rich girl who’s gone for a walk on the wild side. That I don’t belong. That as soon as I get bored, I’ll hightail it back to my side of the tracks and back to the life I ran away from. The problem is that I’m starting to suspect I don’t belong anywhere, and the only place I want to belong is in Jensen’s arms—but he has secrets. Secrets that can destroy everything I’m trying to build. Secrets that will destroy me if I give in and let myself fall for the bad guy.
The perfect daughter.
The perfect girlfriend.
The perfect career.
The perfect life.
Goal achieved… or so I thought.
When I suddenly find myself single, homeless, and desperate for a place to lick my wounds, I sign a lease for the first decent place I can find. Before I know it, I’m living above a bar on the wrong side of the river and trading insults with its infuriatingly hot owner. Jensen Barret is as far from perfect as you can get. He’s beyond arrogant. Surly and rude. Keeps questionable company and makes even more questionable choices—but he makes a mean 3AM grilled cheese and even when he’s making my life difficult, being with him is the only time I feel free. Jensen’s made it clear he doesn’t want me around. Doesn’t trust my kind. Doesn’t see me as anything more than a poor little rich girl who’s gone for a walk on the wild side. That I don’t belong. That as soon as I get bored, I’ll hightail it back to my side of the tracks and back to the life I ran away from. The problem is that I’m starting to suspect I don’t belong anywhere, and the only place I want to belong is in Jensen’s arms—but he has secrets. Secrets that can destroy everything I’m trying to build. Secrets that will destroy me if I give in and let myself fall for the bad guy.
470 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2025
83 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Megyn Ward
71 books538 followersUSA Today best-selling author Megyn Ward lives on coffee, chocolate and more than the occasional glass of red wine. When she's not spending time with the hot, dirty-talking Alphas and the strong, capable women who love them who live in her head, she's busy chasing chickens (and kids), hanging laundry and burning dinner. Either way, she is almost always in the company of her eight dogs, her truest and most faithful companions, and her almost as faithful husband, Joe.
Megyn is also the author of the award-winning Sabrina Vaughn thriller series, written under the name Maegan Beaumont.
Megyn is also the author of the award-winning Sabrina Vaughn thriller series, written under the name Maegan Beaumont.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 20, 2025
12% in and I am IN A RAGE for this woman (FMC). But not because of the MMC - don’t worry!
I’ve only read one other of her series, but Megyn’s stories and characters seem to usually have a charming rough edge to them. Like urban small town/rough side of the tracks vibes.
Jensen comes from wealth but is the bad boy (questionable!) outcast of the family and now lives on the “wrong” side of town, running a dive bar. I really enjoy this character dynamic, makes it a bit intriguing.
Sloane is also from wealth but finding herself screwed over and low on funds - now living on the “wrong” side with Jensen who has a chip on his shoulder about it. He doesn’t trust her and wants nothing to do with her…exceeeeept there’s that little thing of sexual attraction.
They have their secrets in their lives, intentional and unintentional. I won’t say too much there, so as to avoid spoilers, but ooh it makes for some good tension.
Sparks ensue. The family dynamics, trust issues, black sheep, wealthy people problems, bickering, the intense attraction, the twisty and slightly dark aspects - it’s great drama, all the suspense! Also, the spice is spicin’ in this book.
In my experience, Megyn writes books where the characters are messy, imperfect people with complex histories which does lead to things like assumptions and miscommunications - it’s done so very well, in my opinion. Not the sort of thing that makes you roll your eyes.
Jensen …oh *swoon*. Bad boy who isn’t a bad boy at all - *at all*. Such a sweetheart!! The kitchen/pantry part near the middle - I melted. And Sloane just deserves someone who really cares about her and brings her to life.
I couldn’t put this down, read it in one day. It’s a bit of a wild ride and that’s where I’ll leave that!
There were a few bits kind of resolved a little easily and when the love declarations come, I felt a slightly like “based on what?” but I also kind of didn’t care? lol everything else was just that good that I rolled with it.
Overall it was a great book that had my full attention! The end of the story had me totally glued to the pages.
I can definitely recommend this one for a great read!
4/5 ⭐️
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review.
I’ve only read one other of her series, but Megyn’s stories and characters seem to usually have a charming rough edge to them. Like urban small town/rough side of the tracks vibes.
Jensen comes from wealth but is the bad boy (questionable!) outcast of the family and now lives on the “wrong” side of town, running a dive bar. I really enjoy this character dynamic, makes it a bit intriguing.
Sloane is also from wealth but finding herself screwed over and low on funds - now living on the “wrong” side with Jensen who has a chip on his shoulder about it. He doesn’t trust her and wants nothing to do with her…exceeeeept there’s that little thing of sexual attraction.
They have their secrets in their lives, intentional and unintentional. I won’t say too much there, so as to avoid spoilers, but ooh it makes for some good tension.
Sparks ensue. The family dynamics, trust issues, black sheep, wealthy people problems, bickering, the intense attraction, the twisty and slightly dark aspects - it’s great drama, all the suspense! Also, the spice is spicin’ in this book.
In my experience, Megyn writes books where the characters are messy, imperfect people with complex histories which does lead to things like assumptions and miscommunications - it’s done so very well, in my opinion. Not the sort of thing that makes you roll your eyes.
Jensen …oh *swoon*. Bad boy who isn’t a bad boy at all - *at all*. Such a sweetheart!! The kitchen/pantry part near the middle - I melted. And Sloane just deserves someone who really cares about her and brings her to life.
I couldn’t put this down, read it in one day. It’s a bit of a wild ride and that’s where I’ll leave that!
There were a few bits kind of resolved a little easily and when the love declarations come, I felt a slightly like “based on what?” but I also kind of didn’t care? lol everything else was just that good that I rolled with it.
Overall it was a great book that had my full attention! The end of the story had me totally glued to the pages.
I can definitely recommend this one for a great read!
4/5 ⭐️
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review.
February 17, 2026
Plot: 4.5/5 • Spice: 3/5 ———-> Was this a masterpiece? No. Did I absolutely enjoy this? Yes. Is my taste the same as yours? Probably no. But like I said, I really liked this.
Her “best friend” sent her a video of her choking down her fiancées dick at their engagement party. Sloane is a surgeon who dedicates most of her time to the hospital. Which lead Ethan to stray. Ethan is also a narcissist.
Sloane meets River at a coffee shop. She over hears Sloane conversation about trying to find somewhere to live, because Ethan kicked her out of their condo and moved the best friend in. Sloane has been living in her car in the hospital parking lot with $1500 to her name until she gets paid again.
River takes Sloane to see the loft above the bar she works at. The bar owned by Jensen Barret. A man with a shaky past. Jensen wants nothing to do with Sloane. Knows she comes from money just by seeing the bracelet on sloanes wrist. lyn Jensen and Sloane both come from money but neither of them wants anything to do with and they both work hard for what they have.
Jensen finds out about Sloane’s past and how it’s somehow connected to him. Instead of telling her the truth, he hides it. It isn’t until she’s knee deep in surgery that the secret comes out basically breaking Sloane’s heart. However, at this point Jensen is so much in love with her he’d do anything to keep her from leaving.
The end of this is so dramatic lol. Like Ethan is a psychopath.
I really enjoyed this. I was hooked by the third chapter. The moment she got that video I was like “okay this is gonna be good”. And i’m glad it was 👍🏼. Standalone. HEA.
Her “best friend” sent her a video of her choking down her fiancées dick at their engagement party. Sloane is a surgeon who dedicates most of her time to the hospital. Which lead Ethan to stray. Ethan is also a narcissist.
Sloane meets River at a coffee shop. She over hears Sloane conversation about trying to find somewhere to live, because Ethan kicked her out of their condo and moved the best friend in. Sloane has been living in her car in the hospital parking lot with $1500 to her name until she gets paid again.
River takes Sloane to see the loft above the bar she works at. The bar owned by Jensen Barret. A man with a shaky past. Jensen wants nothing to do with Sloane. Knows she comes from money just by seeing the bracelet on sloanes wrist. lyn Jensen and Sloane both come from money but neither of them wants anything to do with and they both work hard for what they have.
Jensen finds out about Sloane’s past and how it’s somehow connected to him. Instead of telling her the truth, he hides it. It isn’t until she’s knee deep in surgery that the secret comes out basically breaking Sloane’s heart. However, at this point Jensen is so much in love with her he’d do anything to keep her from leaving.
The end of this is so dramatic lol. Like Ethan is a psychopath.
I really enjoyed this. I was hooked by the third chapter. The moment she got that video I was like “okay this is gonna be good”. And i’m glad it was 👍🏼. Standalone. HEA.
July 4, 2025
Jensen Barrett is the black sheep of his family after a prison sentence and is now living on the wrong side of the river from the rich folks of Clearwater Creek, or "creekers". He's made his own family since including Tank Barrett who took him in, gave him his last name, and left him his bar.
Sloane is left with nothing after her fiance cheats on her at their engagement party with her best friend and swindles her out of the condo she paid for. Left homeless, she jumps on the offer of an apartment over a bar in Barrett, but realizing the trouble she'll get with her reluctant new landlord Jensen. But slowly the antagonism gives way to their attraction and Sloane feels a freedom she's never had before when she's around him. But can the secrets they're each holding tear them apart?
I'll never getting over the Gilroys ending, but this story proves that an all new couple can steal my heart. Jensen is gruff and grouchy on the outside but the kindness he anonymously gives to others shows he a total marshmallow on the inside. My heart broke for him when I read the truth behind his history. The spice in this book was just right, the suspense was great, I loved the secondary characters (and I'm not so secretly hoping a couple of them get their own story...Cade or River maybe?😉). Looking forward to the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sloane is left with nothing after her fiance cheats on her at their engagement party with her best friend and swindles her out of the condo she paid for. Left homeless, she jumps on the offer of an apartment over a bar in Barrett, but realizing the trouble she'll get with her reluctant new landlord Jensen. But slowly the antagonism gives way to their attraction and Sloane feels a freedom she's never had before when she's around him. But can the secrets they're each holding tear them apart?
I'll never getting over the Gilroys ending, but this story proves that an all new couple can steal my heart. Jensen is gruff and grouchy on the outside but the kindness he anonymously gives to others shows he a total marshmallow on the inside. My heart broke for him when I read the truth behind his history. The spice in this book was just right, the suspense was great, I loved the secondary characters (and I'm not so secretly hoping a couple of them get their own story...Cade or River maybe?😉). Looking forward to the next book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 16, 2025
I enjoyed this book. At first with Jensen’s paranoia, I was almost certain that when he would find out Sloane had been Ethan’s fiancé, he would accuse her of being in on it with Ethan-seemed like the typical conflict for this storyline. However, I was pleasantly surprised that was not the route the author took.
A couple things did bother me,however. If Ethan was so close to getting his inheritance by marrying Sloane, why would he dump her for someone else, who wouldn’t even sign a prenup? And why do it at their engagement party? Also, how could Sloane had never seen Ethan’s psychosis if they were together for a couple years and even lived together?
A couple things did bother me,however. If Ethan was so close to getting his inheritance by marrying Sloane, why would he dump her for someone else, who wouldn’t even sign a prenup? And why do it at their engagement party? Also, how could Sloane had never seen Ethan’s psychosis if they were together for a couple years and even lived together?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2025
She's done it again. They barely know each other, but your heart is breaking for them anyway. Tears less than 60% of the way in. And it doesn’t matter that they just met. You believe they love each other.
This book was everything I anticipated it would be. The angst. The heat. The drama and suspense. Not many know how to write broken people in a way that breaks your heart and then put both them and you back together again by the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was everything I anticipated it would be. The angst. The heat. The drama and suspense. Not many know how to write broken people in a way that breaks your heart and then put both them and you back together again by the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 11, 2025
You ever read a book and feel personally called out in the best way? Like the author took one look at your trauma, your soft spots, and your need for a morally gray man with a hidden heart of gold—and then delivered? Yeah, that’s what The Bad Brother did to me.
Let me say this: I came in expecting a typical opposites-attract romance, but what I got was an emotional sucker punch in a leather jacket and a beanie. Jensen Barrett is all the things your mother warned you about—and exactly what your wounded soul craves after your picture-perfect life crumbles into dust. The man is a storm. Rough. Rude. Brooding. Probably smells like whiskey, motor oil, and the kind of sex you’ll never forget. And don’t even get me started on the 3AM grilled cheese… because yes, I would sell a small piece of my soul for one made by him.
And the heroine? She’s me. Or, who I’ve been. The woman who held it all together for far too long—checking every box on someone else’s list of what "perfection" should look like, only to realize none of it ever really belonged to her. When her world collapses, she doesn’t just break… she gets real. Watching her peel off the layers, learn how to stand barefoot in her own mess, and start making choices for herself? I felt that in my bones.
But don’t go thinking this is all soft healing and soul searching. No, ma’am. Megyn Ward knows how to bring the heat. The chemistry between these two is combustible—like “burn-the-bar-down-with-your-lusty-glances” levels of tension. Jensen fights it hard, but you know the moment he caves? It's game over. He’s the kind of man who gives everything when he gives anything, and let me tell you, that quiet devotion underneath all that bark had me absolutely feral.
And of course, there are secrets. Painful ones. Ones that test trust, push boundaries, and make you question if love is enough. But damn it, when it comes to messy, complicated, earned love stories? This one grabbed me by the heart and didn’t let go.
So yeah, I might’ve come for the bad boy and the snark, but I stayed for the journey of self-worth, healing, and finding a home in someone who sees you—even when you don’t see yourself clearly yet.
Megyn Ward, you’ve got me hooked. And if there’s a sequel, I’ll be the first in line, grilled cheese in hand.
Let me say this: I came in expecting a typical opposites-attract romance, but what I got was an emotional sucker punch in a leather jacket and a beanie. Jensen Barrett is all the things your mother warned you about—and exactly what your wounded soul craves after your picture-perfect life crumbles into dust. The man is a storm. Rough. Rude. Brooding. Probably smells like whiskey, motor oil, and the kind of sex you’ll never forget. And don’t even get me started on the 3AM grilled cheese… because yes, I would sell a small piece of my soul for one made by him.
And the heroine? She’s me. Or, who I’ve been. The woman who held it all together for far too long—checking every box on someone else’s list of what "perfection" should look like, only to realize none of it ever really belonged to her. When her world collapses, she doesn’t just break… she gets real. Watching her peel off the layers, learn how to stand barefoot in her own mess, and start making choices for herself? I felt that in my bones.
But don’t go thinking this is all soft healing and soul searching. No, ma’am. Megyn Ward knows how to bring the heat. The chemistry between these two is combustible—like “burn-the-bar-down-with-your-lusty-glances” levels of tension. Jensen fights it hard, but you know the moment he caves? It's game over. He’s the kind of man who gives everything when he gives anything, and let me tell you, that quiet devotion underneath all that bark had me absolutely feral.
And of course, there are secrets. Painful ones. Ones that test trust, push boundaries, and make you question if love is enough. But damn it, when it comes to messy, complicated, earned love stories? This one grabbed me by the heart and didn’t let go.
So yeah, I might’ve come for the bad boy and the snark, but I stayed for the journey of self-worth, healing, and finding a home in someone who sees you—even when you don’t see yourself clearly yet.
Megyn Ward, you’ve got me hooked. And if there’s a sequel, I’ll be the first in line, grilled cheese in hand.
June 22, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Spicy: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I am in love with Jensen and Sloane’s book!
If I were to describe this book to a friend, I would say that it is about a town divided into two. On one side, you have the rich families, and on the other side, the people who have fallen out of fortune or grace, all separated by a river.
We meet Jensen, who is clearly the son of a wealthy family but has been disowned by them. However, between the trust fund his grandfather gave him and the Barrett family who “adopted” him, he has started a new life.
Sloane is a successful trauma surgeon at the hospital and was due to marry Ethan, Jensen’s brother. On the night of her engagement party, Ethan sends her a video of him cheating with her best friend, kicks her out of her condo, and leaves her with no money. River, a friend of Jensen, overhears Sloane talking to a realtor and offers her a loft above the bar that Jensen owns.
This is really where the story begins. At the beginning, Sloane didn’t know Jensen was related to Ethan, and Ethan only found out because Sloane mentioned it one night when Jensen was consoling her after a long day. These two characters have been cheated on, and there are so many feelings of betrayal and insecurity that it’s hard for them to trust each other. Additionally, every time something “good” is happening, Ethan tries to sabotage Jensen.
The story overall is very engaging, and I really enjoyed seeing the character growth, especially how Sloane became so confident and handled her panic attacks.
If there were a few things I could have changed in this book, it would be how quickly Jensen and Sloane fell into a sexual relationship and how Ethan was “handled.”
I am so glad I got to read this book, and I read everything Mrs. Ward writes.
Spicy: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I am in love with Jensen and Sloane’s book!
If I were to describe this book to a friend, I would say that it is about a town divided into two. On one side, you have the rich families, and on the other side, the people who have fallen out of fortune or grace, all separated by a river.
We meet Jensen, who is clearly the son of a wealthy family but has been disowned by them. However, between the trust fund his grandfather gave him and the Barrett family who “adopted” him, he has started a new life.
Sloane is a successful trauma surgeon at the hospital and was due to marry Ethan, Jensen’s brother. On the night of her engagement party, Ethan sends her a video of him cheating with her best friend, kicks her out of her condo, and leaves her with no money. River, a friend of Jensen, overhears Sloane talking to a realtor and offers her a loft above the bar that Jensen owns.
This is really where the story begins. At the beginning, Sloane didn’t know Jensen was related to Ethan, and Ethan only found out because Sloane mentioned it one night when Jensen was consoling her after a long day. These two characters have been cheated on, and there are so many feelings of betrayal and insecurity that it’s hard for them to trust each other. Additionally, every time something “good” is happening, Ethan tries to sabotage Jensen.
The story overall is very engaging, and I really enjoyed seeing the character growth, especially how Sloane became so confident and handled her panic attacks.
If there were a few things I could have changed in this book, it would be how quickly Jensen and Sloane fell into a sexual relationship and how Ethan was “handled.”
I am so glad I got to read this book, and I read everything Mrs. Ward writes.
July 30, 2025
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ .5/5
Spice Rating: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ .5
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, strangers to lovers, millionaire, found family, close proximity, darkish, twists & turns, good girl/bad boy, secrets, suspense, possessive, opposites attract
Perfection. The perfect life, job and family.
Sloane thought that she had everything she had always dreamed of. Until she finds herself at rock bottom after her fiancé cheated on her at their engagement party. Now homeless, single and trying to navigate the world on her own. Signing a lease that she felt somewhat safe in proved to be harder than she thought. Settling on the option above the bar with the gorgeous and mysterious yet annoyingly infuriating owner, Sloane realizes her standards have dropped drastically and her once seemingly perfect life was no more.
Jensen Barret was the complete opposite of what Sloane had envisioned her life to look like. Disowned from his family, and taken in by the previous bar owner, Jensen is also living a lige much different from what he had imagined. Broody, moody and rude, he could not make it more clear that he wanted nothing to do with Sloane. He didn’t trust her, or her ‘kind’, anyone that came from wealth couldn’t possibly understand the struggles that he had endured.
With Jensen being the picture of the opposite of what Sloane wanted, avoiding him wouldn’t be a problem…or so she thought. The longer Sloane is away from what she thought was everything she wanted, the more she realizes that the only place she has truly ever felt free and herself is with Jensen.
Both having baggage and issues that they have to work through, will they continue to fight their attraction? Or will Sloane give in to what she never knew she wanted and fall for the bad guy?
Spice Rating: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ .5
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, strangers to lovers, millionaire, found family, close proximity, darkish, twists & turns, good girl/bad boy, secrets, suspense, possessive, opposites attract
Perfection. The perfect life, job and family.
Sloane thought that she had everything she had always dreamed of. Until she finds herself at rock bottom after her fiancé cheated on her at their engagement party. Now homeless, single and trying to navigate the world on her own. Signing a lease that she felt somewhat safe in proved to be harder than she thought. Settling on the option above the bar with the gorgeous and mysterious yet annoyingly infuriating owner, Sloane realizes her standards have dropped drastically and her once seemingly perfect life was no more.
Jensen Barret was the complete opposite of what Sloane had envisioned her life to look like. Disowned from his family, and taken in by the previous bar owner, Jensen is also living a lige much different from what he had imagined. Broody, moody and rude, he could not make it more clear that he wanted nothing to do with Sloane. He didn’t trust her, or her ‘kind’, anyone that came from wealth couldn’t possibly understand the struggles that he had endured.
With Jensen being the picture of the opposite of what Sloane wanted, avoiding him wouldn’t be a problem…or so she thought. The longer Sloane is away from what she thought was everything she wanted, the more she realizes that the only place she has truly ever felt free and herself is with Jensen.
Both having baggage and issues that they have to work through, will they continue to fight their attraction? Or will Sloane give in to what she never knew she wanted and fall for the bad guy?
August 1, 2025
In this book we get to meet the Barrett’s, a family made up of one that is chosen. There is Austin, the bouncer, Cade, the bartender & underground fighter, that is a convict. Cade’s twin, Colt, who is the sheriff, Sera, the twin’s sister & waitress. Cade has a son named Gunner. Tank was the father of the family but he passed a handful of years before and gave Jensen the Mill which is now a dive bar, where there is fighting in the basement, with Cade and Jensen at the top of the ‘hill.’ Hanna is Jensen’s ex, who just makes me livid. You’ll see why. Jensen’s bio brother is just evil incarnate as are his parents. Status is everything to them and they are creekers. Dr. Sloane Merrick is engaged to Ethan, and at their party Ethan disappears. We find out that there is a lot to why Ethan is just bad. I got really upset in the book because of him. He is like a bad penny with horrifying and evil thoughts. Eeek. He terrifies me. So Sloane & Ethan break up and she ends up homeless and her mother is just off the rails. Things go to heck and she needs to find a place and meets River, one of the waitresses at the Mill and River offers her a place above the Mill. Things do not go as planned and a lot of hilarious and upsetting things ensue. The book is fun, funny, scary, hilarious, AC on high from freakiness, as well as the steam. It is also romantic and hot. As well as a lot of points where I chewed on my nails, and ranted curses and punched my pillow and bed. I also cried. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2025
I was really excited about the release of this book. While I'm not usually a huge fan of "bad boys," I do love close proximity, enemies to lovers, and somewhat "taboo" forbidden relationships. So the fact that the love interest is the brother of someone in the FMC's life was a pull in to me.
I’ve been a longtime fan of Megyn Ward, and I’m still continuously amazed at how she creates these unique worlds and characters. Each one feels distinct—not just in personality, but even in the way the sex scenes unfold. She doesn’t just recycle the same spicy moments; somehow, it always feels new. My favorite part is that she never holds back in the heat, but she writes it so well that it never feels like straight-up porn. You genuinely feel like you're in the moment with them—a perfect blend of sensuality and detail. There were even a few new behaviors and acts in this one that had me thinking, “Oooh yes, I like that!”
One of my favorite parts of this book was the twisty, turny reveals. Even though some of them came a little fast, I appreciated the surprises. I personally would’ve loved to linger a bit longer in that “is he trouble?” bickering stage of the relationship—the “I can’t stand you, but damn do I want you” tension—but overall, it was still completely enjoyable.
I’m so excited to read the stories of the other characters in this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ve been a longtime fan of Megyn Ward, and I’m still continuously amazed at how she creates these unique worlds and characters. Each one feels distinct—not just in personality, but even in the way the sex scenes unfold. She doesn’t just recycle the same spicy moments; somehow, it always feels new. My favorite part is that she never holds back in the heat, but she writes it so well that it never feels like straight-up porn. You genuinely feel like you're in the moment with them—a perfect blend of sensuality and detail. There were even a few new behaviors and acts in this one that had me thinking, “Oooh yes, I like that!”
One of my favorite parts of this book was the twisty, turny reveals. Even though some of them came a little fast, I appreciated the surprises. I personally would’ve loved to linger a bit longer in that “is he trouble?” bickering stage of the relationship—the “I can’t stand you, but damn do I want you” tension—but overall, it was still completely enjoyable.
I’m so excited to read the stories of the other characters in this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 2, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Gritty, raw, and totally addictive—I devoured every page!”
The Bad Brother is one of those rare romances that grips you from the first line and refuses to let go. Megyn Ward has delivered a heartfelt, angsty, and incredibly sexy story about two people who couldn’t be more different—yet are exactly what the other needs.
Sloane is the picture of perfection… or at least she was. When her perfect life falls apart, she lands in a dive bar apartment and straight into the path of Jensen Barrett—a grumpy, brooding bar owner who doesn’t do nice, or polite, or easy.
But oh, does he do complicated. And chemistry? Off. The. Charts. 🔥
This story is:
• 💔 An emotional journey of breaking free from expectations
• 🔥 Packed with slow-burn tension and sizzling confrontations
• 😡 Enemies-to-lovers with actual bite
• ❤️ A redemption arc wrapped in sarcasm and grilled cheese at 3AM
• 🧨 Secrets that hit like a gut punch when revealed
Jensen is the kind of anti-hero who shouldn’t be swoon-worthy—but absolutely is. And Sloane? She’s a heroine worth rooting for—strong, vulnerable, and determined to rewrite her own story.
If you love stories about messy people finding real love in unexpected places, this one is for you. Megyn Ward nails the emotional depth and gritty reality of falling for the wrong guy—who might just be the right one after all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Bad Brother is one of those rare romances that grips you from the first line and refuses to let go. Megyn Ward has delivered a heartfelt, angsty, and incredibly sexy story about two people who couldn’t be more different—yet are exactly what the other needs.
Sloane is the picture of perfection… or at least she was. When her perfect life falls apart, she lands in a dive bar apartment and straight into the path of Jensen Barrett—a grumpy, brooding bar owner who doesn’t do nice, or polite, or easy.
But oh, does he do complicated. And chemistry? Off. The. Charts. 🔥
This story is:
• 💔 An emotional journey of breaking free from expectations
• 🔥 Packed with slow-burn tension and sizzling confrontations
• 😡 Enemies-to-lovers with actual bite
• ❤️ A redemption arc wrapped in sarcasm and grilled cheese at 3AM
• 🧨 Secrets that hit like a gut punch when revealed
Jensen is the kind of anti-hero who shouldn’t be swoon-worthy—but absolutely is. And Sloane? She’s a heroine worth rooting for—strong, vulnerable, and determined to rewrite her own story.
If you love stories about messy people finding real love in unexpected places, this one is for you. Megyn Ward nails the emotional depth and gritty reality of falling for the wrong guy—who might just be the right one after all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2025
Oh how I loved this story!! The chemistry between Sloan and Jensen was top notch! Emotions ran high and the steamy times were hot!
Sloane, a surgeon from the other side of the river is engaged and at her engagement party when things go awry. She finds herself in a predicament, throwing her right into Jensen Barret’s path.
Jensen, a local bad boy bar owner instantly hates Sloane upon meeting her, and instantly sees her as a “creeker”-a shallow person with money from over the bridge.
As truths become known, this situation gets messy! We have Jensen’s psychotic brother with an equally delusional mother, a protective chosen family and loyal members of the community, including a group of auxiliary ladies from the church that drives Jensen crazy! If that’s not enough, add in Sloane’s unrelenting and controlling mother that won’t let her live her own life.
I loved the character development in this story! Sloane becoming confident and speaking up for herself and Jensen’s learning how to trust and love again.
This book was such a whirlwind that I never put it down until the last page was turned. I really can’t say enough about this wonderful author and the stories she writes! Keep them coming Queen!
Sloane, a surgeon from the other side of the river is engaged and at her engagement party when things go awry. She finds herself in a predicament, throwing her right into Jensen Barret’s path.
Jensen, a local bad boy bar owner instantly hates Sloane upon meeting her, and instantly sees her as a “creeker”-a shallow person with money from over the bridge.
As truths become known, this situation gets messy! We have Jensen’s psychotic brother with an equally delusional mother, a protective chosen family and loyal members of the community, including a group of auxiliary ladies from the church that drives Jensen crazy! If that’s not enough, add in Sloane’s unrelenting and controlling mother that won’t let her live her own life.
I loved the character development in this story! Sloane becoming confident and speaking up for herself and Jensen’s learning how to trust and love again.
This book was such a whirlwind that I never put it down until the last page was turned. I really can’t say enough about this wonderful author and the stories she writes! Keep them coming Queen!
August 11, 2025
Finding where you really belong
THE BAD BROTHER is a fantastic story that has so many elements going on at the same time. The story envelopes you until you can't do anything but flip the page and keep on reading. Sloane is a successful trauma surgeon at the local hospital. Her life is what is expected of her...engaged, career, condo and about to have it all. But on the night of her engagement party she receives a video from Ethan, her fiance. In it he and her best friend are having sex and the bottom drops out even more as he kicks her out of their condo. With no where to go and no money she ends up eventually ends up in a loft over a bar, on the other side of the river. The town they live in is divided by more than a river and Sloane gets a taste of what the other side offers...in the form of Jensen, her new landlord. Jensen is a man with a past that he keeps guarded from everyone. He runs his bar, lives his life, and gets a jolt when he sees his new tenant for the first time. What happens between them is a fabulous read that takes your emotions on a journey you will not forget quickly. Once again Megyn Ward has written a book that is well rounded, captivating, has characters with depth and many layers, adds a bit of mystery and a lot of sizzle.
THE BAD BROTHER is a fantastic story that has so many elements going on at the same time. The story envelopes you until you can't do anything but flip the page and keep on reading. Sloane is a successful trauma surgeon at the local hospital. Her life is what is expected of her...engaged, career, condo and about to have it all. But on the night of her engagement party she receives a video from Ethan, her fiance. In it he and her best friend are having sex and the bottom drops out even more as he kicks her out of their condo. With no where to go and no money she ends up eventually ends up in a loft over a bar, on the other side of the river. The town they live in is divided by more than a river and Sloane gets a taste of what the other side offers...in the form of Jensen, her new landlord. Jensen is a man with a past that he keeps guarded from everyone. He runs his bar, lives his life, and gets a jolt when he sees his new tenant for the first time. What happens between them is a fabulous read that takes your emotions on a journey you will not forget quickly. Once again Megyn Ward has written a book that is well rounded, captivating, has characters with depth and many layers, adds a bit of mystery and a lot of sizzle.
July 30, 2025
Goodness this book is hard to put down. It is a tad dark and twisty, emotional and thrilling too. Who doesn’t love a bad boy with a big, soft heart that he hides very well? Add in gruff, growly and grumpy, as well as protective and possessive, and I was all in with Jensen. When Sloane arrives, down on her luck thanks to her cheating fiancé who just happens to be his brother, Jensen gives her the full on grumpy and gruff treatment. Antagonistic…oh yes, but there is also a magnetic pull between them that both do their best to ignore, at first. Their supercharged chemistry proves hard to ignore and things get decidedly spicy. Unfortunately, they have a whole lot of baggage to deal with on their way forward in this relationship. Family drama, (including his psychopath brother), old hurts and fears, a few secrets and moments of self discovery all must be sorted out or faced before they can fully commit to each other. Thankfully, these two are strong-willed, stubborn and determined to stand by each other. They also have friends on their side to help them get things right and urge them to fight for love and each other.
This twisty and suspenseful romance has my recommendation.
This twisty and suspenseful romance has my recommendation.
June 26, 2025
Sloane and Jensen
I have been in a reading slump for a while and there are a few authors that I know will deliver a story I can get interested and invested in right from the start and Megyn is one of them.
Jensen is a protective and generous a-hole who owns a bar. Sloane is a semi strong, independent woman who is a really good surgeon. These two meet when one of Jensen's employees rents the loft above the bar. Right away he wants her gone because he thinks she was sent to mess with him by his brother and also she was from the other side of town where the high class lived and he was banned from when he was young and accused of something that had his family turning their backs on him. Sloane not only finds out her fiance not only has been cheating on her the night of their engagement party with her best friend but he not only stole her condo but all the money in her account leaving her homeless and broke except for the money in her purse. It was fun and entertaining to see the interactions between these two as Jensen tries to get her to leave and then also dealing with his crazy brother. The chemistry between these two are hot and steamy and when they get together 🔥🔥🔥🔥😍😍😍. As always I just love Megyn's writing and never want it to end. Look forward to more and hopefully some of the characters in the story get their own stories.
I received a copy through BookSprout.
I have been in a reading slump for a while and there are a few authors that I know will deliver a story I can get interested and invested in right from the start and Megyn is one of them.
Jensen is a protective and generous a-hole who owns a bar. Sloane is a semi strong, independent woman who is a really good surgeon. These two meet when one of Jensen's employees rents the loft above the bar. Right away he wants her gone because he thinks she was sent to mess with him by his brother and also she was from the other side of town where the high class lived and he was banned from when he was young and accused of something that had his family turning their backs on him. Sloane not only finds out her fiance not only has been cheating on her the night of their engagement party with her best friend but he not only stole her condo but all the money in her account leaving her homeless and broke except for the money in her purse. It was fun and entertaining to see the interactions between these two as Jensen tries to get her to leave and then also dealing with his crazy brother. The chemistry between these two are hot and steamy and when they get together 🔥🔥🔥🔥😍😍😍. As always I just love Megyn's writing and never want it to end. Look forward to more and hopefully some of the characters in the story get their own stories.
I received a copy through BookSprout.
February 5, 2026
The Bad Brother by Megyn Ward delivers a sharp, addictive enemies-to-lovers romance that balances humor, tension, and heat with real emotional stakes. Sloane’s fall from “perfect life” to living above a bar on the wrong side of town sets the stage for a delicious clash with Jensen, the gruff, irresistibly hot bar owner who wants nothing to do with her—or so he tells himself.
The chemistry between Sloane and Jensen crackles from their first encounter, fueled by class divides, past wounds, and mutual stubbornness. As their banter turns into something deeper, secrets and a shared enemy raise the stakes, adding suspense and danger without overshadowing the romance. The spice is just right—steamy but not the whole point—and the plot keeps the pages turning.
What really shines is the found-family element Jensen has built and the way both characters grow as they confront their pasts. The angst and misunderstandings feel earned, the side characters add depth, and the story never drags. This was a hard-to-put-down romance with heart, heat, and a satisfying emotional payoff.
The chemistry between Sloane and Jensen crackles from their first encounter, fueled by class divides, past wounds, and mutual stubbornness. As their banter turns into something deeper, secrets and a shared enemy raise the stakes, adding suspense and danger without overshadowing the romance. The spice is just right—steamy but not the whole point—and the plot keeps the pages turning.
What really shines is the found-family element Jensen has built and the way both characters grow as they confront their pasts. The angst and misunderstandings feel earned, the side characters add depth, and the story never drags. This was a hard-to-put-down romance with heart, heat, and a satisfying emotional payoff.
August 5, 2025
This couple has a lot in common, but they don't realise it meeting for the first few times. Their personalities have a subtle matching, but for entirely different reasons.
Jenson's background, whilst not a secret, he isn't forthcoming. He hides certain issues due to untruths and untold truths.. Sloane also has issues and she harbours secrets, due to shame and anger at herself.
He is a strong MMC. She is a strong FMC, but weakend by certain people associated with her and it takes a while before she gets the better of things. She has allowed people to dictate her.
Murder and mayhem..whilst things build to the final chapters, I would have preferred there be little more bite to the descriptions, because it seemed more restrained acceptance than potential scandal. The bad boy is a good guy, and the good boy is definitely the bad guy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jenson's background, whilst not a secret, he isn't forthcoming. He hides certain issues due to untruths and untold truths.. Sloane also has issues and she harbours secrets, due to shame and anger at herself.
He is a strong MMC. She is a strong FMC, but weakend by certain people associated with her and it takes a while before she gets the better of things. She has allowed people to dictate her.
Murder and mayhem..whilst things build to the final chapters, I would have preferred there be little more bite to the descriptions, because it seemed more restrained acceptance than potential scandal. The bad boy is a good guy, and the good boy is definitely the bad guy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 30, 2025
It’s been a while since I’ve read anything from Megyn Ward, but I’m really glad I jumped back into her work. This was a very engaging romance, with lots of elements of danger and suspense. The spice was just spicy enough without being over the top, and also without being the sole focus of the narrative. Lots of plot between the main characters, also with some interesting and complex side players. Also some angst and misunderstanding between the romantic leads, but again, nothing unreasonable or over the top - very well done! There were some typos and formatting issues, but as this was an ARC I was not too surprised. Hopefully most of that got cleaned up before publishing. Will definitely read more Megyn Ward! Big fan of her Gilroy Clan as well!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2025
Megyn Ward creates fascinating, complex characters that resonate with their personalities, emotions, and complications. Sloane is an accomplished woman, but her life is a mess thanks to psychotic ex, a condescending mother, and her new landlord. Jensen has his own problems stemming from estranged family and their continuing attacks.
Sloane and Jensen are blazing together: his dirty mouth is addictive to her, but there are secrets, drama, danger, and angst that threaten their burgeoning relationship. His reputation has been shattered, but he is successful and has a support system that tells him he’s a good guy. His brother is her ex and it’s a suspenseful and scary cataclysm when he unravels! This story kept my attention and the steamy scenes are delicious!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sloane and Jensen are blazing together: his dirty mouth is addictive to her, but there are secrets, drama, danger, and angst that threaten their burgeoning relationship. His reputation has been shattered, but he is successful and has a support system that tells him he’s a good guy. His brother is her ex and it’s a suspenseful and scary cataclysm when he unravels! This story kept my attention and the steamy scenes are delicious!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 26, 2025
The Bad Brother was soooooo good!!! Well better than good!!! I loved this book and didn't stop reading until I reached the end. The sterling was amazing. It was probably, page-turning and oh so much fun to read. I loved the tropes of this book. The forbidden romance, from opposite sides of the tracks, a man obsessed and a woman too. The hate to love relationship and the back and forth with the banter and wit had me laughing. This book had my emotions all over the place from swooning to being mad, wanting the feeling of getting revenge with certain characters and the final “YES” was had me all excited turning the pages. I can't wait to get my hands on what's next from Megyn Ward. I love her writing style, she is gritty and creates exciting worlds and complex characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 26, 2025
Wow, I was so thrilled to see another Megyn Ward book! I enjoy reading her books and this one is no different.
Tropes:
• Ex-boyfriend’s brother
• Forced proximity
• Enemy to lovers
• Good girl/bad guy
Jensen categorizes Sloane as soon as he sees her, thinking she is lost because she doesn’t belong on this side of track, she’s a good girl!
Sloane, successful surgeon, money, has her life planned out well until it goes crazy. Determined to get away, Sloane finds herself renting a room about the bar, the bar that Jensen owns.
Jensen tries to get Sloane to leave but she finds herself wanting to stay much more than wanting to go back to the life she no longer wants!
Megyn Ward did an incredible job with this one and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
Tropes:
• Ex-boyfriend’s brother
• Forced proximity
• Enemy to lovers
• Good girl/bad guy
Jensen categorizes Sloane as soon as he sees her, thinking she is lost because she doesn’t belong on this side of track, she’s a good girl!
Sloane, successful surgeon, money, has her life planned out well until it goes crazy. Determined to get away, Sloane finds herself renting a room about the bar, the bar that Jensen owns.
Jensen tries to get Sloane to leave but she finds herself wanting to stay much more than wanting to go back to the life she no longer wants!
Megyn Ward did an incredible job with this one and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
August 11, 2025
Jenson and Sloane. Shes the perfect everything until shes not. Now living above a bar on the wrong side of town she battles with the hot owner of the bar. He doesnt want her around. Shes trouble. Hes arrogant and rude. Says as soon as shes finished playing she'll go back across the tracks. But he makes great comfort food and she feels safe around him. She wants to stay but he has secrets that could break her heart. Loved their story about a bad boy and a good girl and other charecters to round out the rollercoaster journey full of twists and turns and ups and downs. Couldnt put it down. The story grabs you and doesnt let go.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 23, 2025
Sloane and Jensen are to opposites. Their chemistry is off the charts and melts your kindle. Sloane finds herself dumped by her fiancé and with no money or place to live. Because he took everything from her. Living in her car and working at the hospital. She needs to find a place and regroup. To figure out her next move. Finds herself in Jensen's bar. And Jensen wants nothing to do with her. Jensen believes she is a liar and a snake in the grass. Jensen also finds that he can't stay away from the hot doctor. When Sloane finds that Jensen knows her ex-fiance she doesn't know what or how to handle it. Sloane and Jensen make a plan to take out their enemy so they can have their HED.
August 27, 2025
Sloane is suddenly broke, single and homeless; she has always tried to be the perfect person, look where it got her. Not wanting to live out of her car, she signs a lease on the first decent place she can find, living above a bar and friction being cause between the her and the bar's owner, Jensen. Jensen dislikes her instantly, believing she is a shallow person from the other side of the river.
Jensen expects she will eventually get bored with slumming it but Sloane is starting to expect the best place for her is with Jensen.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jensen expects she will eventually get bored with slumming it but Sloane is starting to expect the best place for her is with Jensen.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2025
Wow! The spice ramped up pretty fast and boy was it extra spicy. Jensen and Sloane did not hit it off at first. But it didn’t take long for things to heat up. We had a lot going on in this book. We had a crazy jerk of an ex with an equally crazy mother, a horrible mother who was just awful to Sloane, and we had a great found family who would do anything to protect one another. It was an awesome book! ❤️❤️❤️
Suspenseful
Ex-boyfriend’s brother
Forced proximity
Enemies to lovers
Bully (kinda)
Suspenseful
Ex-boyfriend’s brother
Forced proximity
Enemies to lovers
Bully (kinda)
June 29, 2025
Morally Grey but a softie for his girl 🖤
He may be called the "bad brother" but he's the s*xiest, grumpiest, most caring and loving brother out there... The other brother though 😤 He's an a*sh*t
Jensen is the "3am grilled cheese" guy. He's the type of morally grey man you'd beg to have in your life. He is possessive in all the best ways. Even if he does "h*te f*ck" her initially not ready to admit his true feelings, but neither is she ready... They're both in the same headspace and she enjoys the 5-finger necklace... Maybe too much 🤭
HEA is guaranteed but hard won. I love these two together - they compliment each other so well! If you like morally grey men who is only soft for their loved ones... This is your book!
He may be called the "bad brother" but he's the s*xiest, grumpiest, most caring and loving brother out there... The other brother though 😤 He's an a*sh*t
Jensen is the "3am grilled cheese" guy. He's the type of morally grey man you'd beg to have in your life. He is possessive in all the best ways. Even if he does "h*te f*ck" her initially not ready to admit his true feelings, but neither is she ready... They're both in the same headspace and she enjoys the 5-finger necklace... Maybe too much 🤭
HEA is guaranteed but hard won. I love these two together - they compliment each other so well! If you like morally grey men who is only soft for their loved ones... This is your book!
July 31, 2025
I loved this book start to finish….I read it in 2 days and couldn’t put it down. It had suspense, spice, humor and I felt frustration and anger along with the characters. I won’t include any spoilers but you will love getting to know a whole new bar family- Jensen and Sloane are both well written and developed characters. I was so invested in this book. Hoping we get more of the other characters’ stories - River, Cade, Colt, Sera and Gemma. Megyn never disappoints.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 15, 2025
I have always enjoyed Megyn Ward's books. This one was no exception. I loved it. I would recommend it to read. Her writing style keeps you interested and there are many twists and turns. Jensen and Sloane were an amazing couple and throughout the book i watched as Sloane developed and became more bold at times when she needed to be. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read...I devoured it in a few days. It was unputdownable.
Tabitha Crooks
Tabitha Crooks
June 30, 2025
Jensen and Sloane are an unlikely pair. A man with a past and the girl from the right side of the tracks. The conflict between Jensen and his younger brother is the focus of the story and creates the most conflict and suspense. I really liked Sloane’s character because she held to her beliefs. She was a doctor who saved lives and she could have sat back and lived a cushy life but she chose to work and use her skills. Jensen has a streak of butt-head but overall he is marshmallow when it comes to Sloane and his found family. Overall a good story with moderate spice.
July 31, 2025
This book was an intense story that grabs you from the first chapter. Jensen and Sloan are compelling characters that not only had me connecting with them but caught up in all the suspense and drama surrounding them. Will their relationship make it through the dangers Jensen's younger brother places them in.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews