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Bender
Since high school everyone thought Jake Bender would end up behind bars; after all, he comes from a long line of bad boys. He spent years away from the place he called home. When he finally comes back, everyone thinks he's just a punk kid all grown up who's now running a dive bar called The Night Club. What they don't know is he heads up a special task force that cleans up neighborhoods and makes them safe again.
Stormy Ryan has always felt more comfortable with her books than with people. She loves to spend her days within the pages of her books. When her second-hand bookstore is robbed for the third time in as many months, her employees quit, leaving her to run the shop on her own. With the pressure of having to deal with her shop and people, not to mention the declining neighborhood, she is at the end of her rope. When closing up her shop late one night, she is held up, and the neighborhood bad boy saves her, putting both of them at the forefront of a psychotic's obsession.
Being bad has never looked so good.
Stormy Ryan has always felt more comfortable with her books than with people. She loves to spend her days within the pages of her books. When her second-hand bookstore is robbed for the third time in as many months, her employees quit, leaving her to run the shop on her own. With the pressure of having to deal with her shop and people, not to mention the declining neighborhood, she is at the end of her rope. When closing up her shop late one night, she is held up, and the neighborhood bad boy saves her, putting both of them at the forefront of a psychotic's obsession.
Being bad has never looked so good.
Audible Audio
First published January 5, 2015
13 people are currently reading
556 people want to read
About the author
M. Stratton
30 books219 followersM. Stratton is an International Amazon bestselling author in the romantic suspense and mystery suspense categories for her Storm Series and Bender. She lives in Arizona, which is a big change from where she grew up north of Chicago, Illinois. As an only child she learned to tell herself stories to make the long winters go by quicker while dreaming of summer vacations. Now as an adult she still makes up stories to pass the time, but now she writes them down to share with other people.
Stratton is a self-proclaimed dork who loves to make people laugh. Her inner rock star is always on stage performing to a sold out crowd, but she quiet and shy on the outside. She spends her days plotting new ways to surprise her readers.
Website: www.mstrattonauthor.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MLStrattonAu...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MStratton70
Instagram: https://instagram.com/m.stratton/
Stratton is a self-proclaimed dork who loves to make people laugh. Her inner rock star is always on stage performing to a sold out crowd, but she quiet and shy on the outside. She spends her days plotting new ways to surprise her readers.
Website: www.mstrattonauthor.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MLStrattonAu...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MStratton70
Instagram: https://instagram.com/m.stratton/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
March 16, 2015
I'm stopping reading this at 63% and if fangirls/trolls have a problem with it they can kiss it. This is one of the top worst books I've ever held in my hands.
When I first started reading this my expectations were high. The blurb for this book sounds good. I want to know who the heck wrote it because they sure didn't write this book. This writing is choppy, cheesy, corny and frigging leaves out important story pieces.
I thought for a few minutes that 2.0 was pranking me because he likes to see me get to cussing.
But, no..this book is real.
Bender grew up and supposedly became a bad-ass. Do we get the story of why and how? Well no...
Then he shows back up in town in time to rescue Story, an owner of a small used bookstore that bad guys are trying to run off. He just shows up out of the blue after she has been almost mugged/raped or whatever it was..I honestly didn't figure it out. So when he offers to protect our damsel in distress by either getting her a hotel room or sharing his lodging what does she do? Oh, she heads off to stay with him. *shakes head*
Now there is no chemistry going on between these two but we are supposed to buy their insta-lust for one another. I think the choppy, corny writing might have had something to do with that. For example:
"Lesson four, don't lie. I'm here to help you; and if you lie, you die, and I can't do my job."
Then this sweet little line:
"Do you need my number?"
"Lady, I've got your number." He turned and started to walk away
Oh, and don't forget this little scene when they were out to eat in a restaurant:
"Why are you so twitchy?" he asked her as she moved around again in her seat.
"I don't like my back out in the open. I feel like someone is watching me."
"Lady, you're a looker; someone is always watching you."
She frowned at him. "You know what I mean."
"I do, and you're fine. It's just your imagination."
"How can you be sure?"
"Because I'd be feeling the same way, and I'm not."
Now this was just after he preached to her about watching her surroundings and being aware of danger. Guess what happens then? HE gets a bad feeling and of course his is right.
Then you have the idiots that are bad guys in this book. They kill at random..then nom-nom on the people that cross them.
Why doesn't Bender just pop them off? He is such a bad-ass instead of running and hiding every two seconds. These 2 aren't the brightest in the bunch.
The smexy times in this book are even crap!!! I can't even.
Any trolls/fangirls for this frigging book better have butterflies coming out their farts to make me think that this frigging book deserved even the one star I'm giving it.
ETA: After I opened up one of the beers from the six pack I had to get myself for this book I forgot to add a couple of things..and I know to cover my bases....
The wonderful hero of this book states that he has told our heroine more than he has ever told anyone. After he continually tells her NOTHING!!
Throw in the bad guys feeding body parts to the poor neighborhood cats and you just have a romping "not" good time with this book.
Plus one of the bad dudes tell our girl that he wants to drink from her p&$#y...she might want to get that checked.
When I first started reading this my expectations were high. The blurb for this book sounds good. I want to know who the heck wrote it because they sure didn't write this book. This writing is choppy, cheesy, corny and frigging leaves out important story pieces.
I thought for a few minutes that 2.0 was pranking me because he likes to see me get to cussing.
But, no..this book is real.
Bender grew up and supposedly became a bad-ass. Do we get the story of why and how? Well no...
Then he shows back up in town in time to rescue Story, an owner of a small used bookstore that bad guys are trying to run off. He just shows up out of the blue after she has been almost mugged/raped or whatever it was..I honestly didn't figure it out. So when he offers to protect our damsel in distress by either getting her a hotel room or sharing his lodging what does she do? Oh, she heads off to stay with him. *shakes head*
Now there is no chemistry going on between these two but we are supposed to buy their insta-lust for one another. I think the choppy, corny writing might have had something to do with that. For example:
"Lesson four, don't lie. I'm here to help you; and if you lie, you die, and I can't do my job."
Then this sweet little line:
"Do you need my number?"
"Lady, I've got your number." He turned and started to walk away
Oh, and don't forget this little scene when they were out to eat in a restaurant:
"Why are you so twitchy?" he asked her as she moved around again in her seat.
"I don't like my back out in the open. I feel like someone is watching me."
"Lady, you're a looker; someone is always watching you."
She frowned at him. "You know what I mean."
"I do, and you're fine. It's just your imagination."
"How can you be sure?"
"Because I'd be feeling the same way, and I'm not."
Now this was just after he preached to her about watching her surroundings and being aware of danger. Guess what happens then? HE gets a bad feeling and of course his is right.
Then you have the idiots that are bad guys in this book. They kill at random..then nom-nom on the people that cross them.
Why doesn't Bender just pop them off? He is such a bad-ass instead of running and hiding every two seconds. These 2 aren't the brightest in the bunch.
The smexy times in this book are even crap!!! I can't even.
Any trolls/fangirls for this frigging book better have butterflies coming out their farts to make me think that this frigging book deserved even the one star I'm giving it.
ETA: After I opened up one of the beers from the six pack I had to get myself for this book I forgot to add a couple of things..and I know to cover my bases....
The wonderful hero of this book states that he has told our heroine more than he has ever told anyone. After he continually tells her NOTHING!!
Throw in the bad guys feeding body parts to the poor neighborhood cats and you just have a romping "not" good time with this book.
Plus one of the bad dudes tell our girl that he wants to drink from her p&$#y...she might want to get that checked.
March 27, 2015
DNF 25%
Because it was BAD...I had zero connection to the characters, the writing was not great and the story line had so many lacks that you couldn't make sense of what the author wanted to tell you...
I tried to finish it...I really did...but...
*ARC generously provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
Because it was BAD...I had zero connection to the characters, the writing was not great and the story line had so many lacks that you couldn't make sense of what the author wanted to tell you...
I tried to finish it...I really did...but...
*ARC generously provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
March 4, 2015
★ ★ ★ - A me likey, likey 3 star rating!
I am just going to dive in and go straight to my thoughts…
The premise and plot of the novel was inventive and intriguing. At times it seemed funny, dark and realistic.
However, the reason why I was on the verge of giving it a two star rating was because the novel, in different areas, was lacking.
The heroine, Stormy, was realistic but was portrayed as an innocent and very dense girl. Sometimes you felt like wanting to hit her.
Jake was a very likable, hot and one mighty, MIGHTY fine man.
He just needed to be written more in a way that shows how extremely dangerous he is and we can actually see that physically happening in some scenes.
This then leads me to the writing style. The writing style of this novel has me scratching and banging my head at different parts. There was just something about it…
The villain… had me laughing at how cheesy he was. Seriously half the time I was like…
Now I know this is a very rushed review but I honestly have spent way too much time thinking things out, it has blown my thoughts around. If I do end up re-reading I will probably change and add more.
Overall a three star rating!! A sound and likable novel!
ARC kindly provided by The Harp PR in exchange for an honest review.
I am just going to dive in and go straight to my thoughts…
The premise and plot of the novel was inventive and intriguing. At times it seemed funny, dark and realistic.
However, the reason why I was on the verge of giving it a two star rating was because the novel, in different areas, was lacking.
The heroine, Stormy, was realistic but was portrayed as an innocent and very dense girl. Sometimes you felt like wanting to hit her.
Jake was a very likable, hot and one mighty, MIGHTY fine man.
He just needed to be written more in a way that shows how extremely dangerous he is and we can actually see that physically happening in some scenes.
This then leads me to the writing style. The writing style of this novel has me scratching and banging my head at different parts. There was just something about it…
The villain… had me laughing at how cheesy he was. Seriously half the time I was like…
Now I know this is a very rushed review but I honestly have spent way too much time thinking things out, it has blown my thoughts around. If I do end up re-reading I will probably change and add more.
Overall a three star rating!! A sound and likable novel!
ARC kindly provided by The Harp PR in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2015
DNF at 62%
Oh my goodness?????? What the f$#@??????? And a whole lot of laughing myself silly.
This is what I kept asking myself the whole way through this book (well, to where I just gave up anyhow).
To begin with I found the writing choppy. REALLY choppy. Like chunks of the story were missing or something. Like someone forgot to fill me in on what was going on here. But I persevered. Because I thought the blurb sounded really interesting. So I kept reading.
By page 48 (21%)it was starting to drive me a little batty to the point I had to make a note on my kindle (which I DO NOT do very often at all!) The corny and crazy was becoming irritating.
Supposedly some criminal gang (four members I was aware of to begin with) was overtaking a town. Bender is there to get rid of the rabble. The female lead, Stormy (who came into her inheritance at 35) runs a bookstore in said town. No- one except the kids go anymore because it is so dangerous? And Bender has come to her rescue. So the first thing that annoyed, other than the choppy storyline, was that he rescued her he'd jut leave her in dangerous situations for hours at a time? Oh well, that's unbelievable but I'll keep reading...
I also didn't understand the whole scenario about the "gang" and why Bender couldn't just pop a couple of shots in the four of them was beyond me too.
And then Stormy. She was an IDIOT! Like I mean drive me freaking nuts STUPID! and the line "She's the smartest person I've ever met but she trusts too much" had me scratching my head and barfing in my mouth.
Then Bender was worry about her losing her innocence about the bad in life and supposedly she is older than 35??? Maybe that was an error??
Then the gang. First you have gumby main characters that make no sense at all. Then there is the two gang members (I know, I said four but one gang member lops of their heads with a sword and paints some art work with their parts and then there were two) Nutter and Mick. At p53 I started to lose it. The crazy just got notched up a level to "Something smells delicious.... he stirred the pot and didn't flinch when an eyeball floated to the top" WTF????? and then on page 54 "having Nutter as a roommate had its benefits the fact he was a skilled chef was one of them". LOL. Oh and "he'd have to keep the killing sporadic so attention wasn't drawn to them". WFF/ OMG!!!!
There are a few pages of reprieve until the smartest person old mate knows is told "reflections are a great way to see what is going on without people knowing what you are doing". Is this for real?
And "Looking outside she saw how dark it had become. There was no way they were going to be able to read before it was dark." HUH?????
The old lady, palm reading, sexed up crazy bitch was just ridiculous and she had nothing to do with the storyline in any way. RANDOM!!!
The random, crazy shizznit went on and on and on. I laughed a lot. I scratched my head a lot and I swore a lot too.
This was so far out for me in so many ways! 1 star for the blurb. It was good. The rest definitely in my worst ever books.
Oh my goodness?????? What the f$#@??????? And a whole lot of laughing myself silly.
This is what I kept asking myself the whole way through this book (well, to where I just gave up anyhow).
To begin with I found the writing choppy. REALLY choppy. Like chunks of the story were missing or something. Like someone forgot to fill me in on what was going on here. But I persevered. Because I thought the blurb sounded really interesting. So I kept reading.
By page 48 (21%)it was starting to drive me a little batty to the point I had to make a note on my kindle (which I DO NOT do very often at all!) The corny and crazy was becoming irritating.
Supposedly some criminal gang (four members I was aware of to begin with) was overtaking a town. Bender is there to get rid of the rabble. The female lead, Stormy (who came into her inheritance at 35) runs a bookstore in said town. No- one except the kids go anymore because it is so dangerous? And Bender has come to her rescue. So the first thing that annoyed, other than the choppy storyline, was that he rescued her he'd jut leave her in dangerous situations for hours at a time? Oh well, that's unbelievable but I'll keep reading...
I also didn't understand the whole scenario about the "gang" and why Bender couldn't just pop a couple of shots in the four of them was beyond me too.
And then Stormy. She was an IDIOT! Like I mean drive me freaking nuts STUPID! and the line "She's the smartest person I've ever met but she trusts too much" had me scratching my head and barfing in my mouth.
Then Bender was worry about her losing her innocence about the bad in life and supposedly she is older than 35??? Maybe that was an error??
Then the gang. First you have gumby main characters that make no sense at all. Then there is the two gang members (I know, I said four but one gang member lops of their heads with a sword and paints some art work with their parts and then there were two) Nutter and Mick. At p53 I started to lose it. The crazy just got notched up a level to "Something smells delicious.... he stirred the pot and didn't flinch when an eyeball floated to the top" WTF????? and then on page 54 "having Nutter as a roommate had its benefits the fact he was a skilled chef was one of them". LOL. Oh and "he'd have to keep the killing sporadic so attention wasn't drawn to them". WFF/ OMG!!!!
There are a few pages of reprieve until the smartest person old mate knows is told "reflections are a great way to see what is going on without people knowing what you are doing". Is this for real?
And "Looking outside she saw how dark it had become. There was no way they were going to be able to read before it was dark." HUH?????
The old lady, palm reading, sexed up crazy bitch was just ridiculous and she had nothing to do with the storyline in any way. RANDOM!!!
The random, crazy shizznit went on and on and on. I laughed a lot. I scratched my head a lot and I swore a lot too.
This was so far out for me in so many ways! 1 star for the blurb. It was good. The rest definitely in my worst ever books.
March 3, 2015
This was surprisingly REALLY good. I liked it. It was real and I loved the characters! Very good read.
I love the interaction between the two MC and the characters' development as well. You can tell hero is a great guy who just has this bad ass vibe and it's well written. The heroine is my heroine! Lol. She's antisocial and owns a bookstore (how awesome!) and she's nerdy and beautiful. She'll do what most heroines will want to do in these books.... and that's NOT taking his rules seriously for her own protection, but she'll do it in a way where she doesn't seem like she a TSTL girl.
Enjoyed the book tremendously. Especially the ending and epilogue.
I love the interaction between the two MC and the characters' development as well. You can tell hero is a great guy who just has this bad ass vibe and it's well written. The heroine is my heroine! Lol. She's antisocial and owns a bookstore (how awesome!) and she's nerdy and beautiful. She'll do what most heroines will want to do in these books.... and that's NOT taking his rules seriously for her own protection, but she'll do it in a way where she doesn't seem like she a TSTL girl.
Enjoyed the book tremendously. Especially the ending and epilogue.
November 22, 2015
This was definitely a surprise read...
i didn't quite know what to expect after reading the blurb, i just have to say that it didn't disappoint in any way...
from the story you get to know 4 characters who are interwoven by the criminal action...two sick and twisted mobsters are running the town and especially one specific neighbourhood with high crime rate where their intrests are now merely investment...
and the only person defying them is a young woman Stormy Ryan who runs a bookstore in that particular bad part of town. She's relentless and a dreamer BUT with very clear motivation. She's not fully aware of the danger that linger above her head as she is determined to fight the crime and help the children by encouraging them to read...
Those two sickos want her out...BUT not without a little sick fun they plan to do with her before they end her...
The events and the odds change when the local bad boy turned secret operative called Bender comes back to his old neighbourhood to clean it up...BUT before he does that he sets his motion to protect and secure the only one who's stubborn enough to put herself in danger just to prove a point...
interesting and very well told story!
i didn't quite know what to expect after reading the blurb, i just have to say that it didn't disappoint in any way...
from the story you get to know 4 characters who are interwoven by the criminal action...two sick and twisted mobsters are running the town and especially one specific neighbourhood with high crime rate where their intrests are now merely investment...
and the only person defying them is a young woman Stormy Ryan who runs a bookstore in that particular bad part of town. She's relentless and a dreamer BUT with very clear motivation. She's not fully aware of the danger that linger above her head as she is determined to fight the crime and help the children by encouraging them to read...
Those two sickos want her out...BUT not without a little sick fun they plan to do with her before they end her...
The events and the odds change when the local bad boy turned secret operative called Bender comes back to his old neighbourhood to clean it up...BUT before he does that he sets his motion to protect and secure the only one who's stubborn enough to put herself in danger just to prove a point...
interesting and very well told story!
April 17, 2015
First, I DNF'd at 24%. After putting it down a few times. Yes, a few, not once or twice. That should have clued me in, but I blamed it on my cold. I was wrong.
Where to begin? The blurb drew me in. Well, the cover did, actually, and the fact that I saw a book friend praise it. Been there, done that. Fool me once, shame on you and stuff.
So, I started the book. The prologue seemed good but oh God, once I got to meet the heroine... I'm sorry, I read a lot too and I'm not street smart but sweet baby cherubs, how can one be so dumb? People are robbed in the less-than-stellar neighborhood she has her bookstore in; they get killed by gangs and whatnot. Her own employees have been robbed and quit because of that and what does she do? Ignore all that, of course. Yes, I too lose track of time when reading but come on. This is ridiculous.
As for the hero, Bender... We're told he's a badass. We're told he's infamous and feared. Told. Not shown. Of course, that may come, along the way but... I'm just not curious enough to read more. It's more tell than show and it feels sort of mechanical, no feelings. I don't know about others, but reading a book and feeling nothing is not for me. Wait, I lied. I felt kinda pissed at how the heroine was portrayed. Ah, and I rolled my eyes at the so-called 'villains' of the story.
Let's just say a big no from this chick and well, it's a shame. The idea was good and it's a waste of a good cover. 1 star.
Where to begin? The blurb drew me in. Well, the cover did, actually, and the fact that I saw a book friend praise it. Been there, done that. Fool me once, shame on you and stuff.
So, I started the book. The prologue seemed good but oh God, once I got to meet the heroine... I'm sorry, I read a lot too and I'm not street smart but sweet baby cherubs, how can one be so dumb? People are robbed in the less-than-stellar neighborhood she has her bookstore in; they get killed by gangs and whatnot. Her own employees have been robbed and quit because of that and what does she do? Ignore all that, of course. Yes, I too lose track of time when reading but come on. This is ridiculous.
As for the hero, Bender... We're told he's a badass. We're told he's infamous and feared. Told. Not shown. Of course, that may come, along the way but... I'm just not curious enough to read more. It's more tell than show and it feels sort of mechanical, no feelings. I don't know about others, but reading a book and feeling nothing is not for me. Wait, I lied. I felt kinda pissed at how the heroine was portrayed. Ah, and I rolled my eyes at the so-called 'villains' of the story.
Let's just say a big no from this chick and well, it's a shame. The idea was good and it's a waste of a good cover. 1 star.
March 12, 2015
M. Stratton is a new to me author and I thank Netgalley for the opportunity to read this and offer an honest review. Possible spoilers.
I wasn't sure what I was getting when I started this book but the blurb intrigued me so in I dove and I have to say I really liked it. Yes, there were a few issues and I will detail them in a bit but over all I enjoyed the story, I liked (for he most part) the characters and hated the characters depending on if they were good guys or bad guys. I found the setting dark, gritty with an edge that really had me believing neighbourhood and those living in it were dangerous and wouldn't stop at anything to get what they wanted.
Although I found Ms Stratton's writing style a bit choppy at times with many loose ends or unexplained characters I thought the story was well thought out. Jake Bender our hero was a boy from the ghetto who was heading in the direction of so many young people today given a chance to be something more than what he is.
Question 1, Murdoch...how did he find out about Jake Bender, who exactly was he connected with...yes law enforcement of some kind but the connections were never explained and I felt that background was integral to the story.
Question 2, Bender went from bad boy delinquent to someone who wanted to protect people and save the world. We were given no background as to how this happened. How did Murdoch turn his life around. I think it would have been easier to connect with Jake and understand his character if we were given more information. I liked Bender and loved the dark, grittiness his character offered but I think to be totally believable he needed his character to be more dimensional and back story would have done this. Possible 2 books might have been better?
Question 3, Stormy, my issue is much the same as I had with Bender. Things were mentioned but never really filled in. How can she be rich from a farm especially after her parents roaming ways. I understand being lost in the world of your favourite books because well I'm a bookworm too but to be that involved that you don't know you are living in a deadly neighbourhood after employees have quit after numerous robberies, this I don't get. I also got she was scared of Nutter but from the meeting in the book store to her other confrontations with him...she just seemed to have no self preservation instincts. I kinda really wanted to smack her at times.
A few other dangling pieces were the men Bender worked with..they just appeared out of no where...no real explanations or knowing their role in this "police" type group.
I enjoyed the craziness of the badguys...they were totally over the top ..possibly too much as Nutter came off like a comic character. The intense scene between Nutter and Stormy near the end didn't play "real" for me either. Other than a mention of a scream when Bender entered the house...we heard nothing from her during the big confrontation scene. Trust me if she was conscience she would not have been quiet.
This sounds like I didn't like the book but I truly did in fact I picked the book up at 10:15pm and didn't stop reading until I was finished. I was captivated. I don't know if M. Stratton is a new writer if so a lot of what I mentioned could be forgiven and with some good beta readers most of the details would have been caught and ironed out. I will look for me novels by this author.
I give this book a 3.5 star rating for creativity, fresh prospective and a nice fast read. A warning there are some really dark aspects of the book that may disturb some readers. If you don't enjoy graphic violence this may not be a book for you.
I wasn't sure what I was getting when I started this book but the blurb intrigued me so in I dove and I have to say I really liked it. Yes, there were a few issues and I will detail them in a bit but over all I enjoyed the story, I liked (for he most part) the characters and hated the characters depending on if they were good guys or bad guys. I found the setting dark, gritty with an edge that really had me believing neighbourhood and those living in it were dangerous and wouldn't stop at anything to get what they wanted.
Although I found Ms Stratton's writing style a bit choppy at times with many loose ends or unexplained characters I thought the story was well thought out. Jake Bender our hero was a boy from the ghetto who was heading in the direction of so many young people today given a chance to be something more than what he is.
Question 1, Murdoch...how did he find out about Jake Bender, who exactly was he connected with...yes law enforcement of some kind but the connections were never explained and I felt that background was integral to the story.
Question 2, Bender went from bad boy delinquent to someone who wanted to protect people and save the world. We were given no background as to how this happened. How did Murdoch turn his life around. I think it would have been easier to connect with Jake and understand his character if we were given more information. I liked Bender and loved the dark, grittiness his character offered but I think to be totally believable he needed his character to be more dimensional and back story would have done this. Possible 2 books might have been better?
Question 3, Stormy, my issue is much the same as I had with Bender. Things were mentioned but never really filled in. How can she be rich from a farm especially after her parents roaming ways. I understand being lost in the world of your favourite books because well I'm a bookworm too but to be that involved that you don't know you are living in a deadly neighbourhood after employees have quit after numerous robberies, this I don't get. I also got she was scared of Nutter but from the meeting in the book store to her other confrontations with him...she just seemed to have no self preservation instincts. I kinda really wanted to smack her at times.
A few other dangling pieces were the men Bender worked with..they just appeared out of no where...no real explanations or knowing their role in this "police" type group.
I enjoyed the craziness of the badguys...they were totally over the top ..possibly too much as Nutter came off like a comic character. The intense scene between Nutter and Stormy near the end didn't play "real" for me either. Other than a mention of a scream when Bender entered the house...we heard nothing from her during the big confrontation scene. Trust me if she was conscience she would not have been quiet.
This sounds like I didn't like the book but I truly did in fact I picked the book up at 10:15pm and didn't stop reading until I was finished. I was captivated. I don't know if M. Stratton is a new writer if so a lot of what I mentioned could be forgiven and with some good beta readers most of the details would have been caught and ironed out. I will look for me novels by this author.
I give this book a 3.5 star rating for creativity, fresh prospective and a nice fast read. A warning there are some really dark aspects of the book that may disturb some readers. If you don't enjoy graphic violence this may not be a book for you.
February 13, 2015
This was my first M. Stratton book and I loved it! There were surprises along the way, and Nutter was the epitome of a crazy lunatic. Great book!
January 28, 2015
What a great story. The first of Stratton's I've read but I'll be reading more. As long as you don't mind twisted bad guys and bloody murders this story was fast paced and sucks you in.
Bender was a bad boy, now a hardass who's job is to go in and clean up the worst neighborhoods. He has his work cut out for him in his old stomping grounds.
For all her book smarts Stormy is a bit clueless. One night Bender saves her from two shady characters and the story gets rolling.
Then there's Nutter and Mick. Which one is crazier? The answer might depend on your perception.
Can Bender keep Stormy Safe? Or will the bad guys plan move forward?
Great read. As long as you aren't squeamish, I highly recommend this book
Bender was a bad boy, now a hardass who's job is to go in and clean up the worst neighborhoods. He has his work cut out for him in his old stomping grounds.
For all her book smarts Stormy is a bit clueless. One night Bender saves her from two shady characters and the story gets rolling.
Then there's Nutter and Mick. Which one is crazier? The answer might depend on your perception.
Can Bender keep Stormy Safe? Or will the bad guys plan move forward?
Great read. As long as you aren't squeamish, I highly recommend this book
January 21, 2015
I love M Stratton's previous work but with Bender that love has gone to the extreme. Bender is by far her best work yet.
This story has it all intrigue, suspense, hot characters, creepy nutty characters and a bad ass chick whom you definitely want to be friends with. M Stratton knows how to put the creep in creepy, the baddie's in this one are so bad that you can't help but root for them cause you actually start to like them. Their relationship is one creepy scary one but they compliment each other so well
This story has it all intrigue, suspense, hot characters, creepy nutty characters and a bad ass chick whom you definitely want to be friends with. M Stratton knows how to put the creep in creepy, the baddie's in this one are so bad that you can't help but root for them cause you actually start to like them. Their relationship is one creepy scary one but they compliment each other so well
January 21, 2015
I am a huge fan of Michele Stratton's writing. But this book is even better than my favorites of hers. One thing this author does better than any other is create creepy bad guys. Her villains are so far over to the dark side they make you shiver. This book has it all, sexy characters, great story line, wonderful suspense, everything! I read this in one sitting because I just had to know how it works out.
Stormy Ryan is a woman who is just good. After losing her family, she goes about trying to help the children in the run down neighborhood enjoy the love of reading by opening a bookstore so she can give them the books they want to read. She spends more time with a book in her hand than interacting with people. She has always been an outsider, but it has suited her just fine.
Jake Bender started out life being branded a bad guy, but he really isn't. His home life had been awful, his dad was an abusive drunk and his mother didn't survive it. Even the principal of the high school told Bender that he was worthless.
As Bender came up on graduation, things were bleak. No one had a good thing to say about him and he got in a lot of trouble. He was headed towards a life behind bars when a man named Murdoch approaches him and shows him a way to still be tough, but do some good too. He takes him up on it and spends a couple decades cleaning up neighborhoods, getting rid of the bad guys with his team. He ends up back home where his old neighborhood has become very dangerous and the police and others are in the bad guys back pockets. But there is a woman trying to do what she can to make things better, and now the worst kind of bad men have her on their radar. When Bender meets Stormy, he knows he is in trouble. He has never felt like this about anyone. There is a reason Murdoch wants him to save her and settle down, but Bender doesn't know this. Nutter, the worst kind of creep, wants Stormy for a terrible reason, and he is going to do what ever it takes to get her. He and his partner Mick are buying up all the properties in the area. But they aren't alone in their pursuits. Bender is determined to save Stormy, but she is very independent ant they don't always agree. He is scared that Mick and Nutter will get her when he is not near. But something is happening between Bender and Stormy, and neither of them are willing to ignore it. Can Bender and his team bring down Nutter and Mick before it is too late? Can Stormy save the kids in the neighborhood? What is she hiding from them all?
This book will have you on the edge of your seat rooting for Stormy and Bender. When things go sideways, hang on tight because it is a heck of a ride that will have you gasping in shock at what happens! I am going to have to read it again now that my pulse has slowed down so I can catch all the details I might have missed when I was perched on the edge of my seat. Heck, it is so good I might read it a third time just for fun.
Stormy Ryan is a woman who is just good. After losing her family, she goes about trying to help the children in the run down neighborhood enjoy the love of reading by opening a bookstore so she can give them the books they want to read. She spends more time with a book in her hand than interacting with people. She has always been an outsider, but it has suited her just fine.
Jake Bender started out life being branded a bad guy, but he really isn't. His home life had been awful, his dad was an abusive drunk and his mother didn't survive it. Even the principal of the high school told Bender that he was worthless.
As Bender came up on graduation, things were bleak. No one had a good thing to say about him and he got in a lot of trouble. He was headed towards a life behind bars when a man named Murdoch approaches him and shows him a way to still be tough, but do some good too. He takes him up on it and spends a couple decades cleaning up neighborhoods, getting rid of the bad guys with his team. He ends up back home where his old neighborhood has become very dangerous and the police and others are in the bad guys back pockets. But there is a woman trying to do what she can to make things better, and now the worst kind of bad men have her on their radar. When Bender meets Stormy, he knows he is in trouble. He has never felt like this about anyone. There is a reason Murdoch wants him to save her and settle down, but Bender doesn't know this. Nutter, the worst kind of creep, wants Stormy for a terrible reason, and he is going to do what ever it takes to get her. He and his partner Mick are buying up all the properties in the area. But they aren't alone in their pursuits. Bender is determined to save Stormy, but she is very independent ant they don't always agree. He is scared that Mick and Nutter will get her when he is not near. But something is happening between Bender and Stormy, and neither of them are willing to ignore it. Can Bender and his team bring down Nutter and Mick before it is too late? Can Stormy save the kids in the neighborhood? What is she hiding from them all?
This book will have you on the edge of your seat rooting for Stormy and Bender. When things go sideways, hang on tight because it is a heck of a ride that will have you gasping in shock at what happens! I am going to have to read it again now that my pulse has slowed down so I can catch all the details I might have missed when I was perched on the edge of my seat. Heck, it is so good I might read it a third time just for fun.
January 24, 2015
Holy shit. This book will make you throw up in your mouth. Like seriously. I think my brain has left the building. Its soooo good. And sooooo bad at the same time! There are things I will never be able to look at the same way again. But please, don't take any of this as a negative. It's kind of the best reasons TO read this book. At least it is if you are as mental as I am!
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, no one, and I mean NO ONE does crazy like M. Stratton does crazy. Bender is a book that will make you double-check those shadows and definitely pay attention to your surroundings when you are walking alone. M. Stratton’s monsters are usually the ones that you never suspect. The guy next door. The random dude in the grocery store. Everyman. In Bender, it’s a much more in your face obvious monster. The crazy bastard Nutter, lives up to his name. He is a serious nut job. But I do have to give him some credit, he is a creative nut job.
Bender is a super hot guy that grew up in the neighborhood. He was always knows as a bad boy around town. He has come back to do one last job of cleaning up his hometown and getting rid of the jerks that have over taken it. In the meantime, he meets Stormy and things progress from there.
Bender is essentially a thriller, with mild romance. It tells the story of a guy who really just wants to clean up his neighborhood, but is going to have a hell of a time doing it. The female lead, Stormy, made me a little crazy at times. It’s like she just wouldn’t listen. She wasn’t grasping the concept that her life was in danger. When she’s not wrapped up in a book, she is pretty cool, but unfortunately she spends too much time in her books to be safe.
I like the small tie in with Stratton’s Storm Series and the protectiveness of the characters from that book towards Stormy. There are little bits throughout the book that, if you are a fan of Stratton’s, you will pick up on. One of the things I love about Stratton’s books is how her sense of humor shines through her stories. She’s pretty entertaining in that sense.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good thrilling book with some crazy ass characters. Please note that there is some pretty graphic violence, so if you are not into that kind of thing, you might want to skip this one.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, no one, and I mean NO ONE does crazy like M. Stratton does crazy. Bender is a book that will make you double-check those shadows and definitely pay attention to your surroundings when you are walking alone. M. Stratton’s monsters are usually the ones that you never suspect. The guy next door. The random dude in the grocery store. Everyman. In Bender, it’s a much more in your face obvious monster. The crazy bastard Nutter, lives up to his name. He is a serious nut job. But I do have to give him some credit, he is a creative nut job.
Bender is a super hot guy that grew up in the neighborhood. He was always knows as a bad boy around town. He has come back to do one last job of cleaning up his hometown and getting rid of the jerks that have over taken it. In the meantime, he meets Stormy and things progress from there.
Bender is essentially a thriller, with mild romance. It tells the story of a guy who really just wants to clean up his neighborhood, but is going to have a hell of a time doing it. The female lead, Stormy, made me a little crazy at times. It’s like she just wouldn’t listen. She wasn’t grasping the concept that her life was in danger. When she’s not wrapped up in a book, she is pretty cool, but unfortunately she spends too much time in her books to be safe.
I like the small tie in with Stratton’s Storm Series and the protectiveness of the characters from that book towards Stormy. There are little bits throughout the book that, if you are a fan of Stratton’s, you will pick up on. One of the things I love about Stratton’s books is how her sense of humor shines through her stories. She’s pretty entertaining in that sense.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good thrilling book with some crazy ass characters. Please note that there is some pretty graphic violence, so if you are not into that kind of thing, you might want to skip this one.
January 30, 2015
Bender M. Stratton 4****
I was given an Arc of bender in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by M Stratton and it most definitely won't be the last.
Bender is a thriller with some romance it tells you the story of bender who is known as the bad boy around town and its been like that all his life, bender didn't have a very good upbringing he's father was an abusive drunk and he's poor mother didn't survive his father. Even benders headteacher told him he was worthless and would end up behind bars or dead sooner or later. In jumps Murdoch waiting for Bender one night at his home he offers to show bender the way and try and do some but also stay tough, and not follow his father's footprints Bender gets a call from Murdoch for him to return to town and do a job to try clean up the neighbourhood up from whack jobs and nutters . So Bender returns to do this last jobs and try and save his town, but Murdoch wants bender to settle down and maybe put down roots back in his home town, bender is clear he's leavening as soon as the job is over.
Stormy Ryan after the loss of her family she's want to do good by others and share her love of books, so she buys herself a bookshop in the run down neighbourhood to try and help kids who love to read to have the chance to have the books they re want.. but stormy always has her head stuck in a book she prefers the land of words more the interacting with people, she's a loner and she's just fine with that,
once stormy has a book in her hand she loses all track of time doesn't take notice of her surroundings or who is lurking in the shadows. And that's when nutter and Mick show up,
yes nutter that's his name I love it because he actually lives up to the name .he is one sick twisted dude I actually like nutter he's so bat shit crazy it's funny. Anyway Mick and nutter are buy up properties around the neighbourhood ( but they are not the only ones)and they want stormy's bookshop and she not willing to sell. Nutter wants stormy and not in a good way.
Can Bender and his men save stormy and the neighbourhood from nutter and Mick?
Will Stormy and Bender get together?
Can stormy save the kids?
You want the answers?? then get one clicking. I finished this book in one sitting I just couldn't put it down it had my on the edge of my seat.
I was given an Arc of bender in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by M Stratton and it most definitely won't be the last.
Bender is a thriller with some romance it tells you the story of bender who is known as the bad boy around town and its been like that all his life, bender didn't have a very good upbringing he's father was an abusive drunk and he's poor mother didn't survive his father. Even benders headteacher told him he was worthless and would end up behind bars or dead sooner or later. In jumps Murdoch waiting for Bender one night at his home he offers to show bender the way and try and do some but also stay tough, and not follow his father's footprints Bender gets a call from Murdoch for him to return to town and do a job to try clean up the neighbourhood up from whack jobs and nutters . So Bender returns to do this last jobs and try and save his town, but Murdoch wants bender to settle down and maybe put down roots back in his home town, bender is clear he's leavening as soon as the job is over.
Stormy Ryan after the loss of her family she's want to do good by others and share her love of books, so she buys herself a bookshop in the run down neighbourhood to try and help kids who love to read to have the chance to have the books they re want.. but stormy always has her head stuck in a book she prefers the land of words more the interacting with people, she's a loner and she's just fine with that,
once stormy has a book in her hand she loses all track of time doesn't take notice of her surroundings or who is lurking in the shadows. And that's when nutter and Mick show up,
yes nutter that's his name I love it because he actually lives up to the name .he is one sick twisted dude I actually like nutter he's so bat shit crazy it's funny. Anyway Mick and nutter are buy up properties around the neighbourhood ( but they are not the only ones)and they want stormy's bookshop and she not willing to sell. Nutter wants stormy and not in a good way.
Can Bender and his men save stormy and the neighbourhood from nutter and Mick?
Will Stormy and Bender get together?
Can stormy save the kids?
You want the answers?? then get one clicking. I finished this book in one sitting I just couldn't put it down it had my on the edge of my seat.
May 29, 2020
So here’s the thing about this wonderfully imaginative and fun book brought to us from M. Stratton… she gave all of us a real treat. A secret that only the lovers of John Hughs movies, the 80’s or Chicagoland will catch. When I realized that this story was about; what M Stratton had done here, I was so excited that I had to read it immediately. She gave one of my most beloved characters a story I never thought he would get. So a HUGE thank you to M. Stratton from all the 80’s loving Chicagoans who loved Bender as much as you did.
This story was so much fun! Bender was awesome, obviously, but the thing that really stood out was the truly sick and twisted antagonists. One word: Nutter. Holy crap! He was so sick and I loved him and his crazy-ass mind! The heroine, Stormy, was totally me. Getting lost in books to the point of losing entire chunks of the day and even getting herself in trouble in the process. I liked her. She was tough and had a heart of gold. I really liked the chemistry between Stormy and Bender. They had a lot going on, but they worked well together. Not a lot of angst in their relationship, they had much bigger fish to fry.
My only complaint about this book is that it could have been longer. I would to have had a little more story. I was so happy hanging out in this world that I could have done it for a while longer.
This was a quick and fun read. It would be great for a chilly Fall afternoon. Start a fire, grab your blanket and book and enjoy!
This story was so much fun! Bender was awesome, obviously, but the thing that really stood out was the truly sick and twisted antagonists. One word: Nutter. Holy crap! He was so sick and I loved him and his crazy-ass mind! The heroine, Stormy, was totally me. Getting lost in books to the point of losing entire chunks of the day and even getting herself in trouble in the process. I liked her. She was tough and had a heart of gold. I really liked the chemistry between Stormy and Bender. They had a lot going on, but they worked well together. Not a lot of angst in their relationship, they had much bigger fish to fry.
My only complaint about this book is that it could have been longer. I would to have had a little more story. I was so happy hanging out in this world that I could have done it for a while longer.
This was a quick and fun read. It would be great for a chilly Fall afternoon. Start a fire, grab your blanket and book and enjoy!
February 12, 2015
I just finished Bender and I really enjoyed it. Michele has a way of freaking me out but in a good way!! This story starts out with Jack Bender. Young punk kid. No one would care if anything happened to him. He has no faith in anyone. One day Murdoch shows up giving him an out. He takes it. Becomes a better man. Now we have Stormy. Always moved around when she was young. Never had friends. Only thing she could enjoy is reading. Her way out is books. She now owns a book store but the local criminals want her out. They are sick people. Mick and Nutter really make me shudder. Bender is there to get his home town back on track and to protect Stormy. They clash but they also have things in common which brings an attraction for them that they didn't expect. However will Mick and Nutter stops things before the progress? You'll have to read and see.
This was a good story. I didn't want to put it down. I had happy moments. Sad moments. Freaked out moments. Lol. Michele really has a way of getting inside the minds of her characters. You'll never know where she goes with them!
I cannot wait to see what comes next from her. Such a joy!
This was a good story. I didn't want to put it down. I had happy moments. Sad moments. Freaked out moments. Lol. Michele really has a way of getting inside the minds of her characters. You'll never know where she goes with them!
I cannot wait to see what comes next from her. Such a joy!
March 12, 2015
What a ride!! I went into this book not knowing what to expect and I'm glad that I did. The story line is unique and well-written, and the characters are thoroughly developed.
Jake Bender was so easy to like. I sympathized with his plight as a teenager in his abusive home and bleak outlook for his future. He was lucky enough that someone offered him a chance for a different kind of life.
This is a story about perseverance and hope, friendship and community, and the lengths to which we are willing to go to protect those things truly important in this life.
Bender meets Stormy, who has similar goals for the town as he does and a relationship develops between them. Together they fight the pervasive evil that is trying to take over their home. Evil is the only word to describe the villains in this book. They are twisted and wicked and bring a very dark element to the plot.
I know this has been vague but it's really worth it for you to read this book knowing as little as possible what you're getting into.
Jake Bender was so easy to like. I sympathized with his plight as a teenager in his abusive home and bleak outlook for his future. He was lucky enough that someone offered him a chance for a different kind of life.
This is a story about perseverance and hope, friendship and community, and the lengths to which we are willing to go to protect those things truly important in this life.
Bender meets Stormy, who has similar goals for the town as he does and a relationship develops between them. Together they fight the pervasive evil that is trying to take over their home. Evil is the only word to describe the villains in this book. They are twisted and wicked and bring a very dark element to the plot.
I know this has been vague but it's really worth it for you to read this book knowing as little as possible what you're getting into.
May 9, 2015
This was my first book by M and I was not disappointed. I loved Bender and Stormy. Both characters grabbed me in a different way right from the get go.
This book is told through both character’s POVs. Bender did not have the best life growing up. Everyone thought he would turn out just like his father. But one day a man was sitting on his porch after school and changed Bender’s life forever. Now 20 years later he is back to where it all began in the town he grew up in.
Stormy is a very quiet girl who stays to herself and enjoys he books. She would rather curl up with a book than be a social butterfly. Stormy doesn’t realize how much he life is in danger until Bender literally walks into her life.
At first Bender tried to fight his feelings for Stormy. Stormy also wasn’t trying to find love or be in a relationship but sometimes life has other plans. There were moments in this book that had me sitting on the edge of my seat. There are also a few other POVs through in so be ready for one crazy ride that will leave your mouth open quite a few times.
This book is told through both character’s POVs. Bender did not have the best life growing up. Everyone thought he would turn out just like his father. But one day a man was sitting on his porch after school and changed Bender’s life forever. Now 20 years later he is back to where it all began in the town he grew up in.
Stormy is a very quiet girl who stays to herself and enjoys he books. She would rather curl up with a book than be a social butterfly. Stormy doesn’t realize how much he life is in danger until Bender literally walks into her life.
At first Bender tried to fight his feelings for Stormy. Stormy also wasn’t trying to find love or be in a relationship but sometimes life has other plans. There were moments in this book that had me sitting on the edge of my seat. There are also a few other POVs through in so be ready for one crazy ride that will leave your mouth open quite a few times.
February 4, 2015
I was lucky enough to win an ARC of this book. Michele is a master at creating creepy nasty,twisted bad guys and I love it. I am a huge fan of her work.
This story has it all a great mix of romance and suspense. A bad ass man Jake that you will fall in love with. He is as hard as he is caring. Stormy brings out the best in him. Stormy is a spunky little bit of a thing with a heart of gold. Who wouldn't want her in their life? This book will keep you on the edge of your seat. I say buckle up it's one hell of a ride.I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.
This story has it all a great mix of romance and suspense. A bad ass man Jake that you will fall in love with. He is as hard as he is caring. Stormy brings out the best in him. Stormy is a spunky little bit of a thing with a heart of gold. Who wouldn't want her in their life? This book will keep you on the edge of your seat. I say buckle up it's one hell of a ride.I hope you enjoy this as much as I did.
May 9, 2015
Ohh.. WOW. What the frig did i just read?!
Seriously.
Stormy was.. just...
She needed to wake the heck up.
I felt like strangling her. Shit. Worst character I've ever read.
Yeah. I didn't like this.
Seriously.
Stormy was.. just...
She needed to wake the heck up.
I felt like strangling her. Shit. Worst character I've ever read.
Yeah. I didn't like this.
February 10, 2015
This is a very fast paced thriller/romance. I really liked the characters in this book. Bender and Stormy were perfect together. I also liked Bender and Murdoch together, and hearing their story. There are some graphic and violent scenes in this book, so if you are squeamish prepare yourself. High intensity! I really liked it!
January 29, 2015
4.5 Stars! This book drew you in and kept you on your toes throughout. This was the perfect mix of what I used to read (suspense) and what I now read (romance). The craziness of Nutter and Mick are not for everybody ~ but worked well in this story. Thank you for something different.
February 3, 2015
Great book!! It does have its twisted moments but that made me love it even more! Oh and Bender... *sigh* I think I have a new book crush :D I always seem to be drawn to the bad boys lol.
September 6, 2022
I am a huge fan of M. Stratton's and seriously, each new book gets better and better. This is one of the most mind-blowing, dark and twisted stories I have ever read. It's filled with romance suspense and frankly, horror. I finished this book a week ago and I'm still shaking as I write this review. This is a must read! Nutter is like no other. He is one sick person. A complete psycho, but I loved his character. It's so hard for me to not give anything away, but know this. If you love dark and twisted, then pick this up. You will not put it down.
September 20, 2020
DNF, 30% in it was going nowhere
March 13, 2015
BENDER
M. Stratton
February 13, 2015
Publisher: --
approximately 244 pages
Romance: Suspense, Dark Thriller, Mystery
** Provided by Netgalley in Exchange for an Honest Review **
-- SYNOPSIS --
Since high school everyone thought Jake Bender would end up behind bars; after all, he comes from a long line of bad boys. He spent years away from the place he called home. When he finally comes back, everyone thinks he's just a punk kid all grown up who’s now running a dive bar called The Night Club. What they don't know is he heads up a special task force, which cleans up neighborhoods and makes them safe again.
Stormy Ryan has always felt more comfortable with her books than with people. She loves to spend her days within the pages of her books. When her second-hand bookstore is robbed for the third time in as many months, her employees quit leaving her to run the shop on her own. With the pressure of having to deal with her shop and people, not to mention the declining neighborhood, she is at the end of her rope.
When closing up her shop late one night, she is held up and the neighborhood bad boy saves her, putting both of them at the forefront of a psychotic’s obsession.
Being bad has never looked so good
-- ADD to GOODREADS --
http://bit.ly/1HAMA25
-- MY THOUGHTS --
Bender had a craptastic upbringing, where the general consensus was that he'd wind up rotting in a jail cell or a grave somewhere sooner rather than later. During one of this bleakest times, a stranger emerges offering him a way out. This man not only teaches him the skills to survive, but to thrive, and be an asset to others. Stormy just wants to run her old, used bookstore in peace but when all of her employees quit after the store's been robbed several times, she's forced to notice just how crime-ridden the neighborhood's become. Still, she does not want to close shop nor does she want the skeezy "protection" the local thugs are "offering" to provide to her at a price. One of the thugs has a very twisted creative side... and he's fixated on Stormy.
The characters range from light and innocent to dark and twisted. They are thought provoking. The plot is woven with thrills and romance, balancing beautifully. Dialogue is realistic, interaction believable - even when it is hard to fathom someone of Stormy's age being so naive to the world as much as she's moved around. The ease of reading is fluid, very well-written; it allows you to immerse yourself and not come up for air until the final scene is played out. WARNING: Whereas the sex scenes are not too graphic, Nutter's scenes tend to be. The conflicts, threats, and hurdles were plentiful. Predictability was low. The conclusion was as solid as it could be, including a stellar epilogue. The only thing I'd like to have yet known was the outcome of Murdoch's crew. Other than that, I'd recommend this to anyone who has an appetite for dark thrillers with just enough sexual heat and attraction to keep it balanced.
------------------------
Heat Level: 4.25
WARNING: The Sex scenes are not all to graphic, but Nutter's "artistry" is dark and twisted, gory and graphic. If this is not something you think you can handle, I'd advise you not read it. But, it's of my opinion that you'd be missing out on a fantastic book.
------------------------
Score: 4.4
Stars: 4
-----------------------
-- BUY it NOW for $2.99 at --
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1HANFa2
BN: http://bit.ly/1Bw3XyM
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1Ai6UPS
Tina J / Unbound Passion
Reviewing for:
Tangled Hearts
-also sent to-
Smut Book Junkie
M. Stratton
February 13, 2015
Publisher: --
approximately 244 pages
Romance: Suspense, Dark Thriller, Mystery
** Provided by Netgalley in Exchange for an Honest Review **
-- SYNOPSIS --
Since high school everyone thought Jake Bender would end up behind bars; after all, he comes from a long line of bad boys. He spent years away from the place he called home. When he finally comes back, everyone thinks he's just a punk kid all grown up who’s now running a dive bar called The Night Club. What they don't know is he heads up a special task force, which cleans up neighborhoods and makes them safe again.
Stormy Ryan has always felt more comfortable with her books than with people. She loves to spend her days within the pages of her books. When her second-hand bookstore is robbed for the third time in as many months, her employees quit leaving her to run the shop on her own. With the pressure of having to deal with her shop and people, not to mention the declining neighborhood, she is at the end of her rope.
When closing up her shop late one night, she is held up and the neighborhood bad boy saves her, putting both of them at the forefront of a psychotic’s obsession.
Being bad has never looked so good
-- ADD to GOODREADS --
http://bit.ly/1HAMA25
-- MY THOUGHTS --
Bender had a craptastic upbringing, where the general consensus was that he'd wind up rotting in a jail cell or a grave somewhere sooner rather than later. During one of this bleakest times, a stranger emerges offering him a way out. This man not only teaches him the skills to survive, but to thrive, and be an asset to others. Stormy just wants to run her old, used bookstore in peace but when all of her employees quit after the store's been robbed several times, she's forced to notice just how crime-ridden the neighborhood's become. Still, she does not want to close shop nor does she want the skeezy "protection" the local thugs are "offering" to provide to her at a price. One of the thugs has a very twisted creative side... and he's fixated on Stormy.
The characters range from light and innocent to dark and twisted. They are thought provoking. The plot is woven with thrills and romance, balancing beautifully. Dialogue is realistic, interaction believable - even when it is hard to fathom someone of Stormy's age being so naive to the world as much as she's moved around. The ease of reading is fluid, very well-written; it allows you to immerse yourself and not come up for air until the final scene is played out. WARNING: Whereas the sex scenes are not too graphic, Nutter's scenes tend to be. The conflicts, threats, and hurdles were plentiful. Predictability was low. The conclusion was as solid as it could be, including a stellar epilogue. The only thing I'd like to have yet known was the outcome of Murdoch's crew. Other than that, I'd recommend this to anyone who has an appetite for dark thrillers with just enough sexual heat and attraction to keep it balanced.
------------------------
Heat Level: 4.25
WARNING: The Sex scenes are not all to graphic, but Nutter's "artistry" is dark and twisted, gory and graphic. If this is not something you think you can handle, I'd advise you not read it. But, it's of my opinion that you'd be missing out on a fantastic book.
------------------------
Score: 4.4
Stars: 4
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Tina J / Unbound Passion
Reviewing for:
Tangled Hearts
-also sent to-
Smut Book Junkie
April 17, 2015
Once upon a time, there was a mousy book nerd that took a stand against some very, mean and psychotic people and unfortunately, made enemies out of them. Though she had the heart of a lion and the determination of a bear around honey, she was still no physical match against her enemies and soon found herself in a dire situation. Enter our hero. Now, this was no prince charming and though he was here to save the day, instead of galloping up on a white steed, he instead showed up on the back of a bike, covered in leather and exuded danger from every pore. From there, our story follows the unlikely duo as they face off against the sinister men trying to kill them and the mutual attraction that could end up being even more dangerous than the men chasing them.
Bender is a story that blends romance, mystery and thrills all together for a pretty great read. The story line is one that is as old as time, a female in peril and a strong man that comes to save her, but what saves this story from being your typical fairy tale romance, is that our hero is not your typical hero and has more bad boy tendencies than good and our protagonists are pretty damn evil and the author does not shy away from letting us know just how evil they are. There are some pretty gruesome scenes in this novel, but nothing that turned my stomach. More squeamish readers beware though, this book does contain death, destruction and some light torture, if such a thing can be “light”, but it only really thickened the plot in my estimation and I enjoyed the thrill of it.
Overall, I think that readers that enjoy a little thrill and mystery with their romance will enjoy this one. It’s not the most eloquently written book, but then again, I’m not the most eloquent reviewer, so that didn’t bother me in the least. I find that it’s often important to know what you are about to get yourself into before you open the pages of a book and you need to know if you are about to experience an emotion break down at the hands of those pages, that way you can prepare yourself with either a bottle of wine, a quiet little corner, a box of bon bons or a box of tissues or all of the above. This one is a pretty straightforward read, that doesn’t put its readers through the emotional grinder and it doesn’t make you think too much, so it’s one that is great for the “busy” busy nerds that often find themselves reading at red lights and right before bed. Heed my warning though, if you are the least bit squeamish with blood or violence, you might want to re-think before you decide to pick this one up.
Happy reading, until next time…
I would like to thank NetGalley and The Hype PR for the ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review
Bender is a story that blends romance, mystery and thrills all together for a pretty great read. The story line is one that is as old as time, a female in peril and a strong man that comes to save her, but what saves this story from being your typical fairy tale romance, is that our hero is not your typical hero and has more bad boy tendencies than good and our protagonists are pretty damn evil and the author does not shy away from letting us know just how evil they are. There are some pretty gruesome scenes in this novel, but nothing that turned my stomach. More squeamish readers beware though, this book does contain death, destruction and some light torture, if such a thing can be “light”, but it only really thickened the plot in my estimation and I enjoyed the thrill of it.
Overall, I think that readers that enjoy a little thrill and mystery with their romance will enjoy this one. It’s not the most eloquently written book, but then again, I’m not the most eloquent reviewer, so that didn’t bother me in the least. I find that it’s often important to know what you are about to get yourself into before you open the pages of a book and you need to know if you are about to experience an emotion break down at the hands of those pages, that way you can prepare yourself with either a bottle of wine, a quiet little corner, a box of bon bons or a box of tissues or all of the above. This one is a pretty straightforward read, that doesn’t put its readers through the emotional grinder and it doesn’t make you think too much, so it’s one that is great for the “busy” busy nerds that often find themselves reading at red lights and right before bed. Heed my warning though, if you are the least bit squeamish with blood or violence, you might want to re-think before you decide to pick this one up.
Happy reading, until next time…
I would like to thank NetGalley and The Hype PR for the ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review
March 2, 2015
Note: This ebook was provided by The Hype PR via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Jake Bender was labeled a bad boy growing up and he certainly had the reputation to back it up. His father physically assaulted him time and again but Bender never spoke of the abuse he was suffering at home. When he finds a man waiting for him in front of his home at the age of eighteen, he's given the opportunity to go down a path different from the one that people around him were saying he was going to die on one day. Twenty years later, he returns to his hometown, promising himself this job will be the last.
Stormy Ryan was always the odd girl out growing up but was always loved by her family and lost herself in the whatever worlds her books opened up for her. Now in her mid-thirties, she's still not comfortable with other people and tends to still lose all sense of time once she gets started reading something. Owning and managing her own used bookstore isn't something she does for profit but more for the benefit of the neighborhood, especially the children. Unfortunately, the area is quickly becoming a no man's land.
Bender is tasked to protect Stormy from the organization that's quickly taking over the neighborhood, especially since she appears to be the only holdout among the business owners in the area. Soon enough, the two develop feelings for one another and when push comes to shove, the two men heading the organization are willing to do anything and use anyone to finally get their hands on Stormy while forcing Bender to be put in a situation he's never been in before--having to save the woman he loves.
Let me begin the review portion by saying that I put in a request to read and review this book on NetGalley because the blurb caught my attention. I try to keep my expectations on a realistic level, especially when it comes to authors whose books I've never tried before. So, when I say that I was sorely disappointed with the story, the characters, and the writing, I'm coming from a place of openness. I felt that there were so many missed opportunities and that this could have actually been a book worth remembering.
I didn't experience anything in the book; rather, I was being told what was going on. I felt Stormy was somewhat of a clueless heroine and Bender constantly calling her "lady" bugged me. Nutter and Mick, the two antagonists, had me in absolute disbelief and made me think of those over the top villains in the Scooby Doo cartoons. I couldn't recall if they had any motivation for what they were doing. The writing itself was missing fluidity. Left feeling disinterested, I'm going to have to give Bender two stars. ♥
Jake Bender was labeled a bad boy growing up and he certainly had the reputation to back it up. His father physically assaulted him time and again but Bender never spoke of the abuse he was suffering at home. When he finds a man waiting for him in front of his home at the age of eighteen, he's given the opportunity to go down a path different from the one that people around him were saying he was going to die on one day. Twenty years later, he returns to his hometown, promising himself this job will be the last.
Stormy Ryan was always the odd girl out growing up but was always loved by her family and lost herself in the whatever worlds her books opened up for her. Now in her mid-thirties, she's still not comfortable with other people and tends to still lose all sense of time once she gets started reading something. Owning and managing her own used bookstore isn't something she does for profit but more for the benefit of the neighborhood, especially the children. Unfortunately, the area is quickly becoming a no man's land.
Bender is tasked to protect Stormy from the organization that's quickly taking over the neighborhood, especially since she appears to be the only holdout among the business owners in the area. Soon enough, the two develop feelings for one another and when push comes to shove, the two men heading the organization are willing to do anything and use anyone to finally get their hands on Stormy while forcing Bender to be put in a situation he's never been in before--having to save the woman he loves.
Let me begin the review portion by saying that I put in a request to read and review this book on NetGalley because the blurb caught my attention. I try to keep my expectations on a realistic level, especially when it comes to authors whose books I've never tried before. So, when I say that I was sorely disappointed with the story, the characters, and the writing, I'm coming from a place of openness. I felt that there were so many missed opportunities and that this could have actually been a book worth remembering.
I didn't experience anything in the book; rather, I was being told what was going on. I felt Stormy was somewhat of a clueless heroine and Bender constantly calling her "lady" bugged me. Nutter and Mick, the two antagonists, had me in absolute disbelief and made me think of those over the top villains in the Scooby Doo cartoons. I couldn't recall if they had any motivation for what they were doing. The writing itself was missing fluidity. Left feeling disinterested, I'm going to have to give Bender two stars. ♥
December 27, 2016
This book has an interesting story... like her characters ... but for me...there just wan't enough back ground on Bender/Stormy/Mick/Nutter.. you get little bits and pieces... just not enough, so when you are trying to figure out why characters are the way they are ( like Bender ) you just don't get a good enough feel for them.
Bender saves Stormy from Mick and Nutter who are trying to take over the neighborhood by force. Nutter doesn't take to well to this due to the fact he has some obsession with Stormy and feels she is his. Through out the story we hear a lot about this obsession, but we really don't know where it stems from.
The short of it...Nutter does end up getting his hands on Stormy...and Bender has a short amount of time to find her. When he does find her, Nutter has "cut" to the chase, so to speak, with her and will no doubt leave some serious scars....
Bender saves Stormy from Mick and Nutter who are trying to take over the neighborhood by force. Nutter doesn't take to well to this due to the fact he has some obsession with Stormy and feels she is his. Through out the story we hear a lot about this obsession, but we really don't know where it stems from.
The short of it...Nutter does end up getting his hands on Stormy...and Bender has a short amount of time to find her. When he does find her, Nutter has "cut" to the chase, so to speak, with her and will no doubt leave some serious scars....
February 14, 2015
What can I say about this book?? I can say a lot but I don't do spoilers.
This book is about Stormy Ryan is a small town bookstore owner who doesn't do well with people. She would rather live in her books (does this sound like a lot of us?) and have other people run her store for her. Well her staff are tired of being robbed/threatened by Mick Controne and his associate "Nutter" so everyone quits and she is on her own. They claim they want to offer "protection" to her and clean up the neighborhood……..
"Mick shook his head. "Tsk…tsk…my dear, while that is all fine and good, you really should have the best, and what could be better than your own personal bodyguard." He waved his arm toward Nutter. "A bodyguard who would lay down his life for his princess." Yeah a sick twisted bodyguard!!
You find out what Nutter likes to do to people in this book and Stormy should be very concerned….
Bender….He didn't have a great upbringing and was saved by Murdoch , a man who saved him at the age of 18. A man who kinda filled the road of father.
Fast Forward 20 years….Bender weaved his way through the cold, dark, damp, autumn streets of his old neighborhood on his Harley. It wasn't the best twenty years ago, but now…He shook his head. Now, it was standing on the edge of ruin. There were signs of one prominent gang all over the place. From his reports, they'd run all the law abiding citizens off years ago. Going through the business district, he was surprised there were actually still shops around, although most of them were dark with different levels of security attempting to keep them safe. He glanced at a shop with lights still on. "Lost in the Pages" looked like it was some kind of bookstore. Strange it was open so late. He made a mental note; keeping track of the activity both criminal and regular would help him in his new job. He slowed and made a left turn into the back alley behind his new dive bar, "The Night Club." It seemed he'd come full circle. Heading back into town in the middle of the night instead of sneaking out was something new. As he swung his leg off his bike, he felt his age and his hard lfe in every creak of his bones. This was it. This was going to be his last job. He'd done enough of these jobs; it should be routine by now. What could possibly go wrong?
Now I hope these wonderful little tidbits grabbed you. Now do yourself a favor and get this book!!!!!!
This book is about Stormy Ryan is a small town bookstore owner who doesn't do well with people. She would rather live in her books (does this sound like a lot of us?) and have other people run her store for her. Well her staff are tired of being robbed/threatened by Mick Controne and his associate "Nutter" so everyone quits and she is on her own. They claim they want to offer "protection" to her and clean up the neighborhood……..
"Mick shook his head. "Tsk…tsk…my dear, while that is all fine and good, you really should have the best, and what could be better than your own personal bodyguard." He waved his arm toward Nutter. "A bodyguard who would lay down his life for his princess." Yeah a sick twisted bodyguard!!
You find out what Nutter likes to do to people in this book and Stormy should be very concerned….
Bender….He didn't have a great upbringing and was saved by Murdoch , a man who saved him at the age of 18. A man who kinda filled the road of father.
Fast Forward 20 years….Bender weaved his way through the cold, dark, damp, autumn streets of his old neighborhood on his Harley. It wasn't the best twenty years ago, but now…He shook his head. Now, it was standing on the edge of ruin. There were signs of one prominent gang all over the place. From his reports, they'd run all the law abiding citizens off years ago. Going through the business district, he was surprised there were actually still shops around, although most of them were dark with different levels of security attempting to keep them safe. He glanced at a shop with lights still on. "Lost in the Pages" looked like it was some kind of bookstore. Strange it was open so late. He made a mental note; keeping track of the activity both criminal and regular would help him in his new job. He slowed and made a left turn into the back alley behind his new dive bar, "The Night Club." It seemed he'd come full circle. Heading back into town in the middle of the night instead of sneaking out was something new. As he swung his leg off his bike, he felt his age and his hard lfe in every creak of his bones. This was it. This was going to be his last job. He'd done enough of these jobs; it should be routine by now. What could possibly go wrong?
Now I hope these wonderful little tidbits grabbed you. Now do yourself a favor and get this book!!!!!!
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