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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?
- GenresRomanceForced Proximity
Unknown Binding
Published March 24, 2026
About the author
D.K. Marie
12 books195 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 54 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 🔥
August 8, 2026
I absolutely KNEW I was going to love Thorne’s character, and I was right!! I completely flew through this book. I could not put it down.
Thorne and Ivy’s relationship was EVERYTHING!!! The chemistry, the tension, the stolen moments… I was hooked on these two from the beginning.
On the outside, Thorne seemed like such a self-serving jerk, but the more we got to know him, the more we saw what was underneath it all. He truly loved his family and was carrying so much trauma from growing up with his father. Watching those layers slowly get peeled back—and seeing Thorne realize that he didn’t have to become the man his father was—made me love his character even more.
And Ivy!! She was exactly what Thorne needed. She was like a breath of fresh air in his complicated, bourbon-soaked world, and I loved what she brought out in him. Their relationship had me completely invested!
Adding Maddison to the plot was AMAZING. I loved the family dynamic she created and how much her presence added to Thorne’s story and his character development.
But one of my absolute favorite parts was watching Thorne grow. He starts out seeming like the kind of man you’re supposed to dislike, and then you begin to understand his choices, his pain, and just how deeply he cares.
Family secrets. Betrayal. Trauma. Bourbon. Redemption. And a romance I couldn’t get enough of.
This was SUCH a great book, and I seriously flew through it!! Thorne and Ivy have my whole heart.
Thorne and Ivy’s relationship was EVERYTHING!!! The chemistry, the tension, the stolen moments… I was hooked on these two from the beginning.
On the outside, Thorne seemed like such a self-serving jerk, but the more we got to know him, the more we saw what was underneath it all. He truly loved his family and was carrying so much trauma from growing up with his father. Watching those layers slowly get peeled back—and seeing Thorne realize that he didn’t have to become the man his father was—made me love his character even more.
And Ivy!! She was exactly what Thorne needed. She was like a breath of fresh air in his complicated, bourbon-soaked world, and I loved what she brought out in him. Their relationship had me completely invested!
Adding Maddison to the plot was AMAZING. I loved the family dynamic she created and how much her presence added to Thorne’s story and his character development.
But one of my absolute favorite parts was watching Thorne grow. He starts out seeming like the kind of man you’re supposed to dislike, and then you begin to understand his choices, his pain, and just how deeply he cares.
Family secrets. Betrayal. Trauma. Bourbon. Redemption. And a romance I couldn’t get enough of.
This was SUCH a great book, and I seriously flew through it!! Thorne and Ivy have my whole heart.
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 13, 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.
September 20, 2026
I found I could not wait to read this book. When I read the first one I was heck yes to the second. Especially knowing Thorne was a downright horrible person. In this book he has a meet cute onna train. Ivy. She is who he needed to meet. The universe lined up and found his person. Oh sure there were incredible ups and downs with this couple but their hea was very deserved.
Thorne is one flawed character. In the first book I messaged the author and said it your next book is Thorne redemption you are one brilliant author. I always wonder how you can take the hated character and make him vulnerable and likeable even when he himself admits he is not likeable. Dk gave him ivy and a bonus teenager who's just needing her brother. He becomes the person he's supposed to because of those two people.
Ivy is an environmental lawyer. Normally I don't care for these characters because they are written to be tree hugging annoying legal minds. But ivy is perfect for Thorne. She smashed his walls and showed him his vulnerability. Good job DK you wrote me a female character I liked. My reading preferences usually like the MC. But ivy is also vulnerable and tough. She's been pushed aside by her mom for a man. That man was Thorne's father. Who turned Thorne into the raging hateful man. Ivy and his half sister Madison changed him. And allows him to see his changed mind.
The third character is Madison. Normally teenagers are written to be difficult characters. Madison is that but she has her reasons. And she's one crafty teenager. She's the sole reason this book was written her actions led to all the drama that unfolds. It was brilliant
I would suggest you read the first in this series because Thorne played a huge role in it. This is a brilliant book and I can't wait for the third.
Thorne is one flawed character. In the first book I messaged the author and said it your next book is Thorne redemption you are one brilliant author. I always wonder how you can take the hated character and make him vulnerable and likeable even when he himself admits he is not likeable. Dk gave him ivy and a bonus teenager who's just needing her brother. He becomes the person he's supposed to because of those two people.
Ivy is an environmental lawyer. Normally I don't care for these characters because they are written to be tree hugging annoying legal minds. But ivy is perfect for Thorne. She smashed his walls and showed him his vulnerability. Good job DK you wrote me a female character I liked. My reading preferences usually like the MC. But ivy is also vulnerable and tough. She's been pushed aside by her mom for a man. That man was Thorne's father. Who turned Thorne into the raging hateful man. Ivy and his half sister Madison changed him. And allows him to see his changed mind.
The third character is Madison. Normally teenagers are written to be difficult characters. Madison is that but she has her reasons. And she's one crafty teenager. She's the sole reason this book was written her actions led to all the drama that unfolds. It was brilliant
I would suggest you read the first in this series because Thorne played a huge role in it. This is a brilliant book and I can't wait for the third.
September 9, 2026
Can I give this book more than 5 stars. I devoured this book in a day. All plans were halted after I started this book. I couldn't stand Thorne in The Bourbon Bet. He was very unlikable and clearly a villain. Man did he ever come around amd redeem himself in this book. The character development was second to none in this series and I want to cry that this book is over. I am super happy book 3 comes out in October but I am greedy and wish there were more siblings and more books! The meet cute at the beginning of this book on the train was my favorite and it really want to see this series be turned into a movie. I am hooked! I didn't think I would love book 2 more than book 1 but I definitely did. Ivy and Thorne have the best love/hate relationship at the beginning and I was rooting for them the entire book. I love the family dynamic in this book. Reading it made me feel apart of the family. 5 out of 5 would absolutely reccomend everyone to read this series.
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!
August 14, 2026
the one we didn’t like
He’s the one we didn’t like but turns out one of the ones we will fall in love with. His character growth is off the charts perfection! Getting more of him was so satisfying, and when he met his match yes please!! I loved this so much and I can’t for their sister’s story!!!!
He’s the one we didn’t like but turns out one of the ones we will fall in love with. His character growth is off the charts perfection! Getting more of him was so satisfying, and when he met his match yes please!! I loved this so much and I can’t for their sister’s story!!!!
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.
September 6, 2026
A whirlwind of emotions!
This put me through the wringer and I. ATE. IT. UP!! I was so tense in the beginning with the high emotions, past resentments, and anger. But as I read on, and slowly got everyone’s pov, it was like watching everyone’s walls come down.
As a reader, that is my favorite part.
And as the climax hit, I hit the ground running aka non-stop reading! Fell in love with all the characters! Especially, Thorne, who was such a flawed but a misguided good person. He learned so much about accepting help and not having to do things alone. His father was such a horrible person!! And Madison, this girl grew up so fast, and I am so happy she found happiness. Also, Ivy, for standing up for herself and pushing Thorne to find himself.
This put me through the wringer and I. ATE. IT. UP!! I was so tense in the beginning with the high emotions, past resentments, and anger. But as I read on, and slowly got everyone’s pov, it was like watching everyone’s walls come down.
As a reader, that is my favorite part.
And as the climax hit, I hit the ground running aka non-stop reading! Fell in love with all the characters! Especially, Thorne, who was such a flawed but a misguided good person. He learned so much about accepting help and not having to do things alone. His father was such a horrible person!! And Madison, this girl grew up so fast, and I am so happy she found happiness. Also, Ivy, for standing up for herself and pushing Thorne to find himself.
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.
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!
August 30, 2026
One of my favorite redemption arc reads ever!
If you’ve read The Bourbon Bet, like me, you probably didn’t like Thorne very much by the end.
Well, let me tell you, that man redeemed himself and then some.
I ended up loving him so much after getting to know why he was the way he was, and seeing that he truly did have a heart. It just took a feisty, takes no crap, woman and a half sister he claimed to want nothing to do with to make it beat again.
I absolutely adored Ivy and the sheer patience and understanding she had when it came to Thorne. The way her and Madison completely accepted him as he was from day one, and loved him through all the good and bad had me wanting to become a part of their family.
It was incredible how he and Sebastian mended their strained relationship, and getting to know more about their sister, Lilliana, has me so excited for her book.
If you’ve read The Bourbon Bet, like me, you probably didn’t like Thorne very much by the end.
Well, let me tell you, that man redeemed himself and then some.
I ended up loving him so much after getting to know why he was the way he was, and seeing that he truly did have a heart. It just took a feisty, takes no crap, woman and a half sister he claimed to want nothing to do with to make it beat again.
I absolutely adored Ivy and the sheer patience and understanding she had when it came to Thorne. The way her and Madison completely accepted him as he was from day one, and loved him through all the good and bad had me wanting to become a part of their family.
It was incredible how he and Sebastian mended their strained relationship, and getting to know more about their sister, Lilliana, has me so excited for her book.
March 15, 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!
September 15, 2026
An amazing read!!
Wow, the chemistry between these two was heating up faster than bourbon in the barrel from the get go. I was goofy smiling and very invested in it all. The flirty banter, the attraction, the emotional drama, just all of it was so good!
There were plenty of laugh out loud moments, especially during their first family dinner. But Ivy and Throne were another great couple in this series, and now I can’t wait for Lillianna’s story.
Loved it! Highly recommend this one!
Wow, the chemistry between these two was heating up faster than bourbon in the barrel from the get go. I was goofy smiling and very invested in it all. The flirty banter, the attraction, the emotional drama, just all of it was so good!
There were plenty of laugh out loud moments, especially during their first family dinner. But Ivy and Throne were another great couple in this series, and now I can’t wait for Lillianna’s story.
Loved it! Highly recommend this one!
March 10, 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 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.
June 13, 2026
I absolutely fell in love with Thorne in The Bourbon Bastard by D.K. Marie—and I didn’t think that was possible after meeting him in The Bourbon Bet!
What starts as a one-night stand on a train turns into a complicated family dynamic involving Thorne, his half-sister Madison, and Ivy. The tension between Thorne and Ivy was electric, and their chemistry had me hooked from the very beginning.
Watching Thorne grow into the man he never thought he could be was everything. Their story delivered the perfect balance of heat, heart, and swoon-worthy moments. Thorne and Ivy were perfection. 🥹❤️
What starts as a one-night stand on a train turns into a complicated family dynamic involving Thorne, his half-sister Madison, and Ivy. The tension between Thorne and Ivy was electric, and their chemistry had me hooked from the very beginning.
Watching Thorne grow into the man he never thought he could be was everything. Their story delivered the perfect balance of heat, heart, and swoon-worthy moments. Thorne and Ivy were perfection. 🥹❤️
April 19, 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.”
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
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