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The Blackstone Billionaires #2
The Bourbon Bastard
One scorching night on a train. Three months living under the same roof. One choice that proves I'm exactly the bastard everyone thinks I am.
I spent three years in Quebec outrunning my demons. When my father dies in scandal, and a fourteen-year-old half-sister threatens to expose our family's secrets, I'm dragged back to Kentucky to the bourbon empire, the brother I betrayed, and the ghosts that won't let me go.
One reckless night with a stranger became the best mistake I’ve ever made. Until she walks into my family’s boardroom and I discover she's Ivy West, my half-sister's guardian. And both of them will be moving into my home for three months.
I try to keep my distance. But every heated glance, every stolen moment pulls us deeper. And when I make a choice that could obliterate her career, I prove I'm exactly like my father. The man I swore I'd never become.
In a family built on bourbon and secrets, I'm fighting to be someone different. But can I change before I destroy the only woman who's ever made me want to try?
I spent three years in Quebec outrunning my demons. When my father dies in scandal, and a fourteen-year-old half-sister threatens to expose our family's secrets, I'm dragged back to Kentucky to the bourbon empire, the brother I betrayed, and the ghosts that won't let me go.
One reckless night with a stranger became the best mistake I’ve ever made. Until she walks into my family’s boardroom and I discover she's Ivy West, my half-sister's guardian. And both of them will be moving into my home for three months.
I try to keep my distance. But every heated glance, every stolen moment pulls us deeper. And when I make a choice that could obliterate her career, I prove I'm exactly like my father. The man I swore I'd never become.
In a family built on bourbon and secrets, I'm fighting to be someone different. But can I change before I destroy the only woman who's ever made me want to try?
- GenresRomance
Unknown Binding
Published March 24, 2026
About the author
D.K. Marie
11 books171 followersDK Marie’s a voracious reader. Her number one love is romance and devours any and all of its genres, but also enjoys thrillers, horror, and non-fiction. Basically, if there are words on a page and a spectacular story, she’s diving in, heart and soul.
However, there’s one thing she loves even more, and that’s writing her own steamy contemporary romances. They’re a mixture of heart, heat, and humor. Brimming with confident heroines and kind heroes, all living, loving, and lusting in and around her hometown of Detroit, Michigan.
When not falling in love with her characters, DK Marie is laughing, relaxing, and planning her next adventure with her family. Okay, and also drinking boatloads of coffee, chatting on social media, and dreaming about her next travel destination.
However, there’s one thing she loves even more, and that’s writing her own steamy contemporary romances. They’re a mixture of heart, heat, and humor. Brimming with confident heroines and kind heroes, all living, loving, and lusting in and around her hometown of Detroit, Michigan.
When not falling in love with her characters, DK Marie is laughing, relaxing, and planning her next adventure with her family. Okay, and also drinking boatloads of coffee, chatting on social media, and dreaming about her next travel destination.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
March 11, 2026
Girl you have outdid yourself with this book 😍. Thorne is the bastard you never wanted but can’t resist. Thorne has stayed away from his family for many years after betraying them but the death of his father has him returning back to his hometown to deal with the scandal his father left behind to clean up. His teenage half sister is threatening to expose all the family secrets while her Guardian named Ivy watches over her. What he didn’t expect was both of them moving into his home and not being able to resist Ivy as much as he tried. This series has been a turn paging series itching for the next book. Family secrets, angry male trophe, smut together. Yes please fire 🔥
March 20, 2026
I received this advanced reader copy for my honest review
Um ok !! Angsty broody Thorne is just a fixer bur sometimes his “fixing” is really messing things up. He is angry at his father, and now is trying to connect with is 14yr old Jake sister he didn’t know he had.
The drama, the angst , the hotness and the storylines that kept me wanting to read more and more !! I soo can’t wait for book 3! ? Hahah
Um ok !! Angsty broody Thorne is just a fixer bur sometimes his “fixing” is really messing things up. He is angry at his father, and now is trying to connect with is 14yr old Jake sister he didn’t know he had.
The drama, the angst , the hotness and the storylines that kept me wanting to read more and more !! I soo can’t wait for book 3! ? Hahah
March 19, 2026
I was addicted to this book from page one! I felt like I really got to know the characters, and I was so invested in their story. This book was beautifully written. I definitely felt all of the feels for Thorn. Swoon😍
Thorn is so afraid that he is like his cold hearted father that he not only keeps emotionally distant but lives a full country away from his family. He feels to blame for the things his father has done. This leads him to believe that he needs to fix everything on his own so he doesn’t drag anyone else with him if things go wrong.
Ivy is a smart, sassy, and very strong woman. She had a mother who chose her secret lover over having a relationship with her. She will do everything she can to keep her half-sister happy and protected. She will not let anyone dictate her life for her.
The sparks between Thorn and Ivy are definitely hot enough to melt ice. Which is exactly what I needed while reading the spicy scenes. So good! As much as they try, they just can’t stay away from each other.
Will Ivy be able to crack Thorn’s rough exterior and show him it’s okay to love and be loved in return? Will he finally be able to step out of his father’s shadow and let himself be the man everyone knows he can be?
Thorn is so afraid that he is like his cold hearted father that he not only keeps emotionally distant but lives a full country away from his family. He feels to blame for the things his father has done. This leads him to believe that he needs to fix everything on his own so he doesn’t drag anyone else with him if things go wrong.
Ivy is a smart, sassy, and very strong woman. She had a mother who chose her secret lover over having a relationship with her. She will do everything she can to keep her half-sister happy and protected. She will not let anyone dictate her life for her.
The sparks between Thorn and Ivy are definitely hot enough to melt ice. Which is exactly what I needed while reading the spicy scenes. So good! As much as they try, they just can’t stay away from each other.
Will Ivy be able to crack Thorn’s rough exterior and show him it’s okay to love and be loved in return? Will he finally be able to step out of his father’s shadow and let himself be the man everyone knows he can be?
March 24, 2026
Bourbon Bastard by D.K. Marie is book two in the Bourbon series and I was hooked after book one, so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this one. And honestly, with character names like Thorne and Ivy? Yes please!
Their story actually starts with a chance meeting on a train that turns into a one-night stand neither of them expected. And let’s just say… Ivy absolutely rocks Thorne’s world. He can’t stop thinking about her afterward—so imagine his surprise when the very next morning she walks straight into his meeting… as the new guardian for his half sister.
Talk about awkward timing.
Thorne is the kind of hero who believes he’s the villain in his own story. He carries a lot of guilt and punishes himself for the man he thinks he is, often making decisions on his own that only create bigger problems later. He’s unapologetic, stubborn, and deeply broken in ways that made my heart ache for him.
Ivy, on the other hand, is strong, grounded, and refuses to be intimidated by Thorne’s rough edges. She sees through his walls and isn’t afraid to call him out when he starts trying to “fix” everything on his own terms.
What I loved most about this story is that Thorne’s family sees him. They know the man he truly is underneath all that guilt and anger. But forgiveness—and especially self-forgiveness—is a long, winding road.
Watching Thorne wrestle with redemption while Ivy slowly becomes someone he can’t imagine losing made this story incredibly compelling.
The chemistry between them is intense, the emotional tension runs deep, and the bourbon-soaked small-town setting continues to make this series such a fun world to get lost in.
If you love grumpy, broken heroes, strong heroines, surprise reunions, and redemption arcs that really make the hero work for it, you’ll definitely want to pick this one up.
Their story actually starts with a chance meeting on a train that turns into a one-night stand neither of them expected. And let’s just say… Ivy absolutely rocks Thorne’s world. He can’t stop thinking about her afterward—so imagine his surprise when the very next morning she walks straight into his meeting… as the new guardian for his half sister.
Talk about awkward timing.
Thorne is the kind of hero who believes he’s the villain in his own story. He carries a lot of guilt and punishes himself for the man he thinks he is, often making decisions on his own that only create bigger problems later. He’s unapologetic, stubborn, and deeply broken in ways that made my heart ache for him.
Ivy, on the other hand, is strong, grounded, and refuses to be intimidated by Thorne’s rough edges. She sees through his walls and isn’t afraid to call him out when he starts trying to “fix” everything on his own terms.
What I loved most about this story is that Thorne’s family sees him. They know the man he truly is underneath all that guilt and anger. But forgiveness—and especially self-forgiveness—is a long, winding road.
Watching Thorne wrestle with redemption while Ivy slowly becomes someone he can’t imagine losing made this story incredibly compelling.
The chemistry between them is intense, the emotional tension runs deep, and the bourbon-soaked small-town setting continues to make this series such a fun world to get lost in.
If you love grumpy, broken heroes, strong heroines, surprise reunions, and redemption arcs that really make the hero work for it, you’ll definitely want to pick this one up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t think I can love a redemption story any more than I love Thorne Blackstone. He truly is a bastard even if he’s a sexy suit wearing billionaire.
Thorne has done some absolute despicable things and to his own family no less. His father was a ruthless coldhearted and corrupt business man and Thorne thinks he’s the same person as his father. Controlling the outcome of everyone’s life including his own.
Ivy gets thrown into the Blackstone family very unwillingly. Shes a brilliant lawyer living in New York but now forced to live in Thornes McMansion for 3 long months with him and a surly teenager.
It doesn’t take long for the chemistry between these two to take over their rational thinking😏
I truly am loving this series so much. I adore Thorne and how well he redeems himself but stays a bit broody and angsty. Just such a fantastic read this was I’m over the top obsessed with the Blackstones 😮💨🖤
March 16, 2026
This was such a fun read. I went into this blind and without reading the first book and now I need to read the first one ASAP, and the way that we ended it, there’s definitely has to be at least one more coming 👀
This was a billionaire romance that takes place in KY, which I loved because it’s one of my favorite places to visit so hearing Lexington and Louisville mentioned made me so happy 🖤. Thorne is our grumpy and troubled FMC who is part of a family that owns a bourbon company. He has made many mistakes in his past and he doesn’t believe he is redeemable. Ivy is our fierce and independent FMC who just happens to fall into bed with a stranger, or so she thought 😬
This book had my on the end of my seat a lot of the time and once I got to about the 40 percent mark I COULD NOT put it down.
This was a billionaire romance that takes place in KY, which I loved because it’s one of my favorite places to visit so hearing Lexington and Louisville mentioned made me so happy 🖤. Thorne is our grumpy and troubled FMC who is part of a family that owns a bourbon company. He has made many mistakes in his past and he doesn’t believe he is redeemable. Ivy is our fierce and independent FMC who just happens to fall into bed with a stranger, or so she thought 😬
This book had my on the end of my seat a lot of the time and once I got to about the 40 percent mark I COULD NOT put it down.
March 25, 2026
This is the second book I’ve read from DK Marie and I enjoyed Thorne’s story.
The Blackstone’s are quite a complicated family there’s so much trauma not only from family history but within the siblings. They always dance around feelings and emotions. I loved Lilliana she knows how to handle Thorne and still be a gentle sister with him. Not only does he feel he needs to take on all the family problems as his own he’s willing to go down with the Blackstone name.
Enter Ivy, I loved her she’s such a strong independent woman but can spot from the get go Thorne’s self sabotage. She’s so pivotal to this story but I love how she stands on her own when she needs to.
I really felt for this family so much, the hurt the long term relationships that are fractured and the deep rooted trauma from family history. Sometimes, some families are just meant to make it…….
3.5 🌟
The Blackstone’s are quite a complicated family there’s so much trauma not only from family history but within the siblings. They always dance around feelings and emotions. I loved Lilliana she knows how to handle Thorne and still be a gentle sister with him. Not only does he feel he needs to take on all the family problems as his own he’s willing to go down with the Blackstone name.
Enter Ivy, I loved her she’s such a strong independent woman but can spot from the get go Thorne’s self sabotage. She’s so pivotal to this story but I love how she stands on her own when she needs to.
I really felt for this family so much, the hurt the long term relationships that are fractured and the deep rooted trauma from family history. Sometimes, some families are just meant to make it…….
3.5 🌟
March 24, 2026
You definitely want to read this one! I couldn't put it down.
This is one of my favorite books of 2026.
What Ivy and Thorne believe is a one night stand that neither can forget about turns into so much more. They thought they would never see each other again, but they were in for a shock. I love how grumpy Thorne is and that Ivy is able to make him realize he isn't his father and deserves love. I cannot wait for the next in the series. This could be read as a standalone but you will want to read the whole series because it is so good! Favorite quotes from the book "You've always been worth everything, you just couldn't see it." and "I'd rather lose every argument with you for the rest of my life than lose you by winning one".
This is one of my favorite books of 2026.
What Ivy and Thorne believe is a one night stand that neither can forget about turns into so much more. They thought they would never see each other again, but they were in for a shock. I love how grumpy Thorne is and that Ivy is able to make him realize he isn't his father and deserves love. I cannot wait for the next in the series. This could be read as a standalone but you will want to read the whole series because it is so good! Favorite quotes from the book "You've always been worth everything, you just couldn't see it." and "I'd rather lose every argument with you for the rest of my life than lose you by winning one".
April 7, 2026
The Bourbon Bastard isn’t just a romance—it’s a slow-burning collision between pride, pain, and the kind of desire that feels more like a threat than a promise. D.K. Marie builds a story where love doesn’t arrive gently—it claws its way in, unwanted and undeniable.
Thorne is the kind of man you don’t trust… but can’t stop watching. Calculated, ruthless, and carved from years of resentment, he’s built his life on control—of his empire, his image, and most importantly, his emotions. But control is fragile, and Ivy? She’s the crack that splits it wide open.
Ivy isn’t your typical heroine. She doesn’t orbit Thorne—she challenges him, unsettles him, refuses to be swallowed by his world. There’s a quiet strength in her that makes every interaction feel charged, like she sees straight through the mask he’s spent years perfecting. And that’s exactly what makes her dangerous to him.
What makes this book stand out is how unapologetically messy it is. Thorne doesn’t suddenly become redeemable, and Ivy doesn’t lose herself trying to save him. Instead, they circle each other in this addictive push-and-pull where vulnerability feels like weakness… until it doesn’t.
Their chemistry is electric, but not soft. It’s sharp, volatile—built on tension, resistance, and the constant question of who will break first. Every conversation feels like a negotiation. Every touch feels like a risk. This isn’t a love story that flows—it fights.
Thorne is the kind of man you don’t trust… but can’t stop watching. Calculated, ruthless, and carved from years of resentment, he’s built his life on control—of his empire, his image, and most importantly, his emotions. But control is fragile, and Ivy? She’s the crack that splits it wide open.
Ivy isn’t your typical heroine. She doesn’t orbit Thorne—she challenges him, unsettles him, refuses to be swallowed by his world. There’s a quiet strength in her that makes every interaction feel charged, like she sees straight through the mask he’s spent years perfecting. And that’s exactly what makes her dangerous to him.
What makes this book stand out is how unapologetically messy it is. Thorne doesn’t suddenly become redeemable, and Ivy doesn’t lose herself trying to save him. Instead, they circle each other in this addictive push-and-pull where vulnerability feels like weakness… until it doesn’t.
Their chemistry is electric, but not soft. It’s sharp, volatile—built on tension, resistance, and the constant question of who will break first. Every conversation feels like a negotiation. Every touch feels like a risk. This isn’t a love story that flows—it fights.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2026
I loved that we got to follow Thornes redemption! He definitely needed one! There were so many great twist and turns in their family drama, some great spicy scenes and some family drama all mixed into this story. I loved that they went from a one night stand to love! I loved the train scene. This was a fun ride and i cant wait to follow Lily's story.
April 1, 2026
I really liked this storyline, the characters were interesting and kept my interest. It’s a one night stand to enemies to lovers romance. Thorne and Ivy’s story is explosive with heat, spice and secrets. There’s plenty of family drama to keep the story moving along. I loved the character growth of Thorne. This is a very good story that I would recommend.
April 1, 2026
After reading the Bourbon Bet, I thought Thorne was unredeemable. In The Bourbon Bastard, DK Marie brings a redemption arc like none other while bringing spice and a great story. I was glad to have read it and can’t wait for the concluding book!
March 22, 2026
After meeting Thorne Blackstone in The Bourbon Bet (where I despised him) I couldn���t wait to read his story because let’s face it, us girls are suckers for the broken bad boy and it did not disappoint. I am feral for Thorne.
I may or may not have shed a tear and had to fight more back.
There’s just something about a man being vulnerable that just gets me all gooey.
Thorne meets Ivy on a train and they instantly click and their chemistry is fire. Thorne Blackstone and his reputation can’t stop thinking about her and is reunited with her in an unexpected way.
The angst and the tension just ateeeeee and I loved every minute of the journey.
“Piece by piece, everything I care about will be gone. Because I’m exactly who I've always been—a Blackstone who fixes things with money and doesn't ask permission first.
My father would be proud.
I'm not.”
I may or may not have shed a tear and had to fight more back.
There’s just something about a man being vulnerable that just gets me all gooey.
Thorne meets Ivy on a train and they instantly click and their chemistry is fire. Thorne Blackstone and his reputation can’t stop thinking about her and is reunited with her in an unexpected way.
The angst and the tension just ateeeeee and I loved every minute of the journey.
“Piece by piece, everything I care about will be gone. Because I’m exactly who I've always been—a Blackstone who fixes things with money and doesn't ask permission first.
My father would be proud.
I'm not.”
April 14, 2026
Good read.
May 6, 2026
I picked this book up at a local book fair for adults. I didn't read too much about it before purchasing, just looked at the Good Reads ratings. This book did not disappoint. It was refreshing to read something unique, as many romance novels follow the same type of storyline.
From strangers on a train, to a forced house guest, a child from a mistress, and then to a true relationship. I enjoyed Thorne & Ivy's love story and all of the complications along the way.
From strangers on a train, to a forced house guest, a child from a mistress, and then to a true relationship. I enjoyed Thorne & Ivy's love story and all of the complications along the way.
April 7, 2026
I enjoyed this book. Thorne and Ivy are hot together and have such great chemistry. I like the plotline and how the plot brought Thorne and others to a better place, causing them to be better people. I love how Madison was able to find her tribe and feel valued finally. Great character build, fun banter, and very well written.
April 20, 2026
“He always says that loving someone means
choosing them every day, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard.”
choosing them every day, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard.”
March 22, 2026
Wow that was an emotional roller coaster. Thorne is a bastard (as the title suggests) but he has his reason but he also is trying to make amends for some of the things he’s done in the past. Ivy is a strong female she knows what she wants and doesn’t take any bull shit. It was a great spicy read and had me hooked from the beginning although I did want to slap Thorne a few time!
March 31, 2026
"The Bourbon Bastard" by DK Marie is the second book in the Blackstone Billionaires series. This book was well written and made you want to keep reading.
Thorne has come back home after his father's death. Going home for Thorne is something that he would only do if he has too. On his way home he has a one night stand. When he gets home there are more surprises than he knows what to do with. Ivy is shocked when her one night stand is sitting in the board room that she enters. As Thorne and Ivy navigate the surprises like throws at them they end up falling for each other.
This book made you fall in love with the characters and root for them. Highly recommend this book.
Thorne has come back home after his father's death. Going home for Thorne is something that he would only do if he has too. On his way home he has a one night stand. When he gets home there are more surprises than he knows what to do with. Ivy is shocked when her one night stand is sitting in the board room that she enters. As Thorne and Ivy navigate the surprises like throws at them they end up falling for each other.
This book made you fall in love with the characters and root for them. Highly recommend this book.
March 17, 2026
Thorne Blackstone! Yes, please!! The Bourbon Bastard was so good - I was hooked from the beginning! The spice straight from the start to the building of the characters and then when the feelings were exchange - gave me chills. Such an amazing read! My family lives in Louisville, so I connected to where they were at. And the bourbon - oh the bourbon is so important. This is a must read!
March 18, 2026
Man, I don’t even have all the words for this book! I expected Thorne’s story to be good, but wow, my expectations were completely exceeded. Getting to really know Thorne just made this even better!
And can we talk about that opening?! This story starts off with a bang and immediately pulls you in. The storyline wasn’t what I expected at all, but in the best way, I loved, loved, loved it.
Ivy was such a great character, and I loved everything she brought to the story. And Mama Blackstone?! An absolute boss (iykyk) 🙌
D.K. Marie, I’m so thankful I got to read this early, this one was so good!
And can we talk about that opening?! This story starts off with a bang and immediately pulls you in. The storyline wasn’t what I expected at all, but in the best way, I loved, loved, loved it.
Ivy was such a great character, and I loved everything she brought to the story. And Mama Blackstone?! An absolute boss (iykyk) 🙌
D.K. Marie, I’m so thankful I got to read this early, this one was so good!
May 23, 2026
The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
EDITORIAL REVIEW
22nd May 2026
TITLE: The Bourbon Bastard
AUTHOR: DK Marie
Star Rating: 5
“A dangerously broken bourbon heir and the sharp-tongued lawyer who refuses to save him collide in a scandal-filled romance where love might be the only thing stronger than family secrets, power, and self-destruction.” The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
The Bourbon Bastard absolutely hooked me from the first chapter. Thorne Blackstone is one of those damaged, morally gray heroes who spends half the book making terrible decisions and the other half making you understand exactly why he makes them. The opening train scene between Thorne and Ivy is pure chemistry — sharp banter, instant attraction, and just enough emotional tension underneath it to make it feel bigger than a simple hookup. I loved that their relationship never felt easy or overly polished. It’s messy, complicated, frustrating, and honestly way more believable because of it.
What really worked for me was how much depth the story had outside the romance. The Blackstone family drama is absolutely chaotic in the best possible way — hidden siblings, blackmail, corruption, generational trauma, bourbon money, public scandals… every time I thought the plot would slow down, something else exploded. Madison especially surprised me. She could have easily just been used as a plot device, but instead she becomes one of the emotional anchors of the story. Watching Thorne slowly soften around her while still fighting every instinct to push people away added a lot of emotional weight.
Ivy was probably my favorite part though. She’s smart, grounded, and refuses to let Thorne bulldoze over her life even when she loves him. A lot of romance novels fall into the trap of letting the damaged billionaire hero get away with everything because he’s tortured and attractive, but this book doesn’t really do that. When Thorne crosses the line and makes a huge decision for Ivy without her consent, the fallout actually matters. She calls him out, leaves, and forces him to learn the difference between protecting someone and controlling them. That growth arc made the ending feel earned instead of rushed.
Overall, The Bourbon Bastard feels like a really addictive mix of emotional romance, family dysfunction, and Southern gothic billionaire drama. It’s intense, sexy, angsty, and occasionally a little toxic — but intentionally so. If you like romances with broken heroes, strong heroines, complicated family dynamics, and a lot of emotional tension simmering under every conversation, this one is definitely worth picking up. Thorne is not an easy man to love, but watching Ivy force him to become better made this such a satisfying read.
I thoroughly enjoyed it.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
EDITORIAL REVIEW
22nd May 2026
TITLE: The Bourbon Bastard
AUTHOR: DK Marie
Star Rating: 5
“A dangerously broken bourbon heir and the sharp-tongued lawyer who refuses to save him collide in a scandal-filled romance where love might be the only thing stronger than family secrets, power, and self-destruction.” The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
The Bourbon Bastard absolutely hooked me from the first chapter. Thorne Blackstone is one of those damaged, morally gray heroes who spends half the book making terrible decisions and the other half making you understand exactly why he makes them. The opening train scene between Thorne and Ivy is pure chemistry — sharp banter, instant attraction, and just enough emotional tension underneath it to make it feel bigger than a simple hookup. I loved that their relationship never felt easy or overly polished. It’s messy, complicated, frustrating, and honestly way more believable because of it.
What really worked for me was how much depth the story had outside the romance. The Blackstone family drama is absolutely chaotic in the best possible way — hidden siblings, blackmail, corruption, generational trauma, bourbon money, public scandals… every time I thought the plot would slow down, something else exploded. Madison especially surprised me. She could have easily just been used as a plot device, but instead she becomes one of the emotional anchors of the story. Watching Thorne slowly soften around her while still fighting every instinct to push people away added a lot of emotional weight.
Ivy was probably my favorite part though. She’s smart, grounded, and refuses to let Thorne bulldoze over her life even when she loves him. A lot of romance novels fall into the trap of letting the damaged billionaire hero get away with everything because he’s tortured and attractive, but this book doesn’t really do that. When Thorne crosses the line and makes a huge decision for Ivy without her consent, the fallout actually matters. She calls him out, leaves, and forces him to learn the difference between protecting someone and controlling them. That growth arc made the ending feel earned instead of rushed.
Overall, The Bourbon Bastard feels like a really addictive mix of emotional romance, family dysfunction, and Southern gothic billionaire drama. It’s intense, sexy, angsty, and occasionally a little toxic — but intentionally so. If you like romances with broken heroes, strong heroines, complicated family dynamics, and a lot of emotional tension simmering under every conversation, this one is definitely worth picking up. Thorne is not an easy man to love, but watching Ivy force him to become better made this such a satisfying read.
I thoroughly enjoyed it.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed The Bourbon Bastard by D.K. Marie, this story had such a strong emotional core, layered characters, and a redemption arc that kept me fully invested.
Thorne has spent the last three years away from his family, trying to become a better man after the damage he caused his brother and his wife. But when his father is killed in a car accident, he’s forced to return home to Kentucky, and face everything he’s been running from.
On the way back, he meets a woman on the train who he can’t seem to forget… only to discover later that she’s about to become a permanent part of his life.
Back home, Thorne learns he has a 14-year-old half-sister, one whose existence threatens to unravel the family due to their father’s past decisions. And her guardian? None other than Ivy, the same woman from the train. An environmental lawyer, Ivy is brought in to deal with issues that could destroy the family’s bourbon business.
What follows is a story full of tension, growth, and complicated relationships, as Thorne, Ivy, and his half-sister find themselves living under the same roof.
Thorne’s character really stood out to me. He’s been shaped by a ruthless, cold-hearted, and corrupt father, and his instinct to “fix” things often leads to more harm than good. He struggles under the weight of that legacy, believing he can’t escape his father’s shadow, but underneath it all, there’s a man with a genuinely good heart trying to do better.
His redemption arc was one of my favourite parts of the book. Watching him grow, say sorry, and fight for something more was incredibly satisfying.
The chemistry between Thorne and Ivy is intense, and I loved Ivy’s strength and determination. Add in a sassy, scene-stealing 14-year-old, and the dynamics in this story become even more engaging.
D.K. Marie did a fantastic job bringing these characters and their world to life. This is an emotional, character-driven story with depth, tension, and heart, and I’m already looking forward to the next book.
Thorne has spent the last three years away from his family, trying to become a better man after the damage he caused his brother and his wife. But when his father is killed in a car accident, he’s forced to return home to Kentucky, and face everything he’s been running from.
On the way back, he meets a woman on the train who he can’t seem to forget… only to discover later that she’s about to become a permanent part of his life.
Back home, Thorne learns he has a 14-year-old half-sister, one whose existence threatens to unravel the family due to their father’s past decisions. And her guardian? None other than Ivy, the same woman from the train. An environmental lawyer, Ivy is brought in to deal with issues that could destroy the family’s bourbon business.
What follows is a story full of tension, growth, and complicated relationships, as Thorne, Ivy, and his half-sister find themselves living under the same roof.
Thorne’s character really stood out to me. He’s been shaped by a ruthless, cold-hearted, and corrupt father, and his instinct to “fix” things often leads to more harm than good. He struggles under the weight of that legacy, believing he can’t escape his father’s shadow, but underneath it all, there’s a man with a genuinely good heart trying to do better.
His redemption arc was one of my favourite parts of the book. Watching him grow, say sorry, and fight for something more was incredibly satisfying.
The chemistry between Thorne and Ivy is intense, and I loved Ivy’s strength and determination. Add in a sassy, scene-stealing 14-year-old, and the dynamics in this story become even more engaging.
D.K. Marie did a fantastic job bringing these characters and their world to life. This is an emotional, character-driven story with depth, tension, and heart, and I’m already looking forward to the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark, Dirty, and Completely Addictive
Morally gray billionaire, forced proximity, and spice that hits fast? Yeah… this book had me hooked from the first chapter.
The Bourbon Bastard by DK Marie absolutely delivered. This is book two in the Blackstone Billionaires series, and for me it was an easy five-star read.
If you thought the spice in The Bourbon Bet was good… this one turns the heat up. Way up. The tone leans darker, the tension is sharper, and the chemistry is impossible to ignore.
Thorne was everything I want in a morally complicated male lead. Troubled, intense, and carrying the weight of his past while trying to make things right for the people he loves. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching a character work through their demons while still being completely irresistible.
We also get some of my favorite tropes: forced proximity and quick-burn chemistry, which kept the story moving and the tension high from start to finish. Once things start building between these two, it’s impossible to look away.
The emotional stakes, the steam, the redemption arc… it all worked for me.
I devoured this in one sitting and now I’m impatiently waiting for book three.
If you like darker billionaire romance with messy, passionate characters and plenty of heat, consider this your sign to start the Blackstone Billionaires series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Morally gray billionaire, forced proximity, and spice that hits fast? Yeah… this book had me hooked from the first chapter.
The Bourbon Bastard by DK Marie absolutely delivered. This is book two in the Blackstone Billionaires series, and for me it was an easy five-star read.
If you thought the spice in The Bourbon Bet was good… this one turns the heat up. Way up. The tone leans darker, the tension is sharper, and the chemistry is impossible to ignore.
Thorne was everything I want in a morally complicated male lead. Troubled, intense, and carrying the weight of his past while trying to make things right for the people he loves. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching a character work through their demons while still being completely irresistible.
We also get some of my favorite tropes: forced proximity and quick-burn chemistry, which kept the story moving and the tension high from start to finish. Once things start building between these two, it’s impossible to look away.
The emotional stakes, the steam, the redemption arc… it all worked for me.
I devoured this in one sitting and now I’m impatiently waiting for book three.
If you like darker billionaire romance with messy, passionate characters and plenty of heat, consider this your sign to start the Blackstone Billionaires series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
"I don't know how to be around her without wanting more. So yeah, I've been a bastard. Because apparently that's easier than dealing with whatever the hell this is. But making her miserable isn't going to make me want her any less."
I just knew Thornes story would be my favorite. There's nothing like a broody/grumpy mmc. This is a story that follows Thorne Blackstone and his redemption arc from book 1, The Bourbon Bet. I highly recommend reading that first so you have some of his background info because he's such a complex character. After his fathers death, his teenage half sister is threatening to expose family secrets unless Thorne opens his home to her and her guardian, Ivy. This was so hard to put down, once I picked it up I read half of it before I even realized it. I ate up the chemistry and tension between Thorne and Ivy, it's everything I expected and more. The found family trope is such a beautiful added bonus to this book. You really get to watch Thornes character growth when he finally lets his guard down. I love that the epilogue ties into Lillianna and I cannot wait for her story!
I just knew Thornes story would be my favorite. There's nothing like a broody/grumpy mmc. This is a story that follows Thorne Blackstone and his redemption arc from book 1, The Bourbon Bet. I highly recommend reading that first so you have some of his background info because he's such a complex character. After his fathers death, his teenage half sister is threatening to expose family secrets unless Thorne opens his home to her and her guardian, Ivy. This was so hard to put down, once I picked it up I read half of it before I even realized it. I ate up the chemistry and tension between Thorne and Ivy, it's everything I expected and more. The found family trope is such a beautiful added bonus to this book. You really get to watch Thornes character growth when he finally lets his guard down. I love that the epilogue ties into Lillianna and I cannot wait for her story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 4.5 rounded to 5 stars
A well written redemption arc is not that common to come by, but DK Marie really delivered! And for a way better experience I'd highly recommend you to read the first book before this one, as it provides much needed context to Thorne's redemption, to his change of heart and his backstory. It all makes up for such a complex character development that's rather rare in your day to day romance reads. And this was definitely the main highlight to em in this book. How this guy who really annoyed the hell our of me in the first book, made me really empathize with him and cheer him on in pursuing his true love and his family's love and forgiveness.
But Ivy was not an afterthought in this story. She was also a strong point - the way she was strong and independent and so supportive for her sister (even though after her mother's abandoning her, she could have easily reject Madison).
And those two together - true perfection!
So if you like well written characters, complex love story and family drama - definitely check this book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
A well written redemption arc is not that common to come by, but DK Marie really delivered! And for a way better experience I'd highly recommend you to read the first book before this one, as it provides much needed context to Thorne's redemption, to his change of heart and his backstory. It all makes up for such a complex character development that's rather rare in your day to day romance reads. And this was definitely the main highlight to em in this book. How this guy who really annoyed the hell our of me in the first book, made me really empathize with him and cheer him on in pursuing his true love and his family's love and forgiveness.
But Ivy was not an afterthought in this story. She was also a strong point - the way she was strong and independent and so supportive for her sister (even though after her mother's abandoning her, she could have easily reject Madison).
And those two together - true perfection!
So if you like well written characters, complex love story and family drama - definitely check this book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just finished The Bourbon Bastard and really loved it! It’s hard to pick which Blackstone book I like best. It’s like picking a favorite child. The Bourbon Bastard has everything to keep you interested and wanting more. Thorne has a one-night stand on a train on the way home for his father's funeral. After his father's death, the family must confront the aftermath of his father's unscrupulous decisions and business transactions--including an illegitimate sibling Madison who turns up and blackmail's the Blackstone's into letting her live with Thorne for three months. Unfortunately, Madison's guardian, lawyer, and half-sister Ivy is the woman who captivated Thorne on his train ride home. Thorne was alway compared to his unethical father. Thorne might not be the perfect sibling like his brother Sebastian, but he is misunderstood and has a good heart -- or does he? Is he doomed to become like his father or are there good motives behind his actions. Read this book and you'll fall in love with him like I did! You can read this book as a standalone, but I promise you that you'll be sorry if you miss out on reading The Bourbon Bet. I was given an ARC but these are my honest opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this advanced copy from the author DK Marie. She is a new author to me and let me just say I will be reading more of her books. This books has it all betrayal, blackmail, love, and finally found family. We first meet Thorne and Ivy on a train where they have a one night stand. He is coming home for his father’s funeral and she is going back to take care of her half sister Madison. They never thought they would see each other again and both are surprised when they show up at the lawyers office because Madison is blackmailing the family to stay and live with them for three months so they can get to know each other. Thorne has made some bad decisions regarding the family and the job and doesn’t feel like he should be happy and feels like the villain but with Ivy and Madison coming into his life he realizes that he can change and that he can be happy
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Thank you DK Marie for the ARC. This is my honest review.
Well, DK has done it once again! Her ability to fully immerse her readers into a story and havign them feel every emotion, every smile, and every tear is truly unmatched.
As soon as I finished book 1, The Bourbon Bet, I wanted Thornes story. I wanted to know more about his past, and I desperately wanted to see his redeption arc. I wasn't sure how it was going to go - he was so awful in book 1 but I knew if anyone could do it, it would be DK.
One of the things that made this book so special was the growth of the characters throughout the story. Everyone grew, including smaller side characters, and they grew in a way that not only drove the story forward, but brought a massive smile to my face. This was truly such an amazing read and I'm already looking forward to book 3!"
Well, DK has done it once again! Her ability to fully immerse her readers into a story and havign them feel every emotion, every smile, and every tear is truly unmatched.
As soon as I finished book 1, The Bourbon Bet, I wanted Thornes story. I wanted to know more about his past, and I desperately wanted to see his redeption arc. I wasn't sure how it was going to go - he was so awful in book 1 but I knew if anyone could do it, it would be DK.
One of the things that made this book so special was the growth of the characters throughout the story. Everyone grew, including smaller side characters, and they grew in a way that not only drove the story forward, but brought a massive smile to my face. This was truly such an amazing read and I'm already looking forward to book 3!"
March 27, 2026
ARC Review
I completely devoured this book. Thorne is such a loveable, morally grey MMC, and honestly, that made it hard. I always love a strong FMC, especially when she's holding her own against someone as stubborn and steadfast as Thorne. Watching his redemption arc unfold while Ivy simultaneously came into her own made for such a satisfying, layered read.
This is an emotional story in the best way. You don't want to justify Thorne's actions — and sometimes he really is such a jerk — but you can't help feeling for him anyway. That tension is what makes it. And the Blackstone family just pulls you in all over again; spending more time with them felt like coming home.
Cannot wait to see what's in store for Lily!
Thank you D.K. Marie for the ARC opportunity and for sharing Thorne and Ivy’s story!
Overall: 5/5
Spice: 4/5
I completely devoured this book. Thorne is such a loveable, morally grey MMC, and honestly, that made it hard. I always love a strong FMC, especially when she's holding her own against someone as stubborn and steadfast as Thorne. Watching his redemption arc unfold while Ivy simultaneously came into her own made for such a satisfying, layered read.
This is an emotional story in the best way. You don't want to justify Thorne's actions — and sometimes he really is such a jerk — but you can't help feeling for him anyway. That tension is what makes it. And the Blackstone family just pulls you in all over again; spending more time with them felt like coming home.
Cannot wait to see what's in store for Lily!
Thank you D.K. Marie for the ARC opportunity and for sharing Thorne and Ivy’s story!
Overall: 5/5
Spice: 4/5
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