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Rock City Renegades #4
Red Zone
STEELE
I used to love being referred to as the bad boy running back—until my antics landed me in hot water. I didn’t think life could get much worse than being released by the team I poured my heart and soul into, just to find out I’d be playing for the Rock City Renegades. They may have the league fooled into believing they’ve got a shot at a championship, but I see through the facade. They’re a joke, and it’s only a matter of time before the rest of the world catches on.
With no other choice, I sign the contract and agree to let the owner’s daughter help me clean up my image. If I play my cards right and put on a show, I’ll be on my way to a better team in no time. But when Sydney Grant walks into our first meeting, I realize I’m not working with a stranger at all, but the woman who had me crawling for her the night before.
Can I keep it professional and do what it takes to fix my reputation? Or will I risk it all for another chance with the one person I should stay far away from?
SYDNEY
Being the lovable outcast of the city’s most well-known football family never really bothered me…until it did. My dad and sister are all business when it comes to the Renegades, often leaving me to wonder where I fit in. So, when they ask me to use my expertise in social media to make the team’s newest player look like a golden boy in the eyes of the fans, I agree, not knowing what I’m getting myself into.
Steele Harlow is larger than life. He says what he wants. He does what he wants. And he certainly doesn’t take kindly to being ordered around. But I never back down from a challenge, even when that challenge is tall, tattooed, and knows exactly what buttons to push to drive me wild.
I promised my family that I’d tame the league’s bad boy. But what happens when I let my guard slip, and he sees the parts of me no one else knows about?
I used to love being referred to as the bad boy running back—until my antics landed me in hot water. I didn’t think life could get much worse than being released by the team I poured my heart and soul into, just to find out I’d be playing for the Rock City Renegades. They may have the league fooled into believing they’ve got a shot at a championship, but I see through the facade. They’re a joke, and it’s only a matter of time before the rest of the world catches on.
With no other choice, I sign the contract and agree to let the owner’s daughter help me clean up my image. If I play my cards right and put on a show, I’ll be on my way to a better team in no time. But when Sydney Grant walks into our first meeting, I realize I’m not working with a stranger at all, but the woman who had me crawling for her the night before.
Can I keep it professional and do what it takes to fix my reputation? Or will I risk it all for another chance with the one person I should stay far away from?
SYDNEY
Being the lovable outcast of the city’s most well-known football family never really bothered me…until it did. My dad and sister are all business when it comes to the Renegades, often leaving me to wonder where I fit in. So, when they ask me to use my expertise in social media to make the team’s newest player look like a golden boy in the eyes of the fans, I agree, not knowing what I’m getting myself into.
Steele Harlow is larger than life. He says what he wants. He does what he wants. And he certainly doesn’t take kindly to being ordered around. But I never back down from a challenge, even when that challenge is tall, tattooed, and knows exactly what buttons to push to drive me wild.
I promised my family that I’d tame the league’s bad boy. But what happens when I let my guard slip, and he sees the parts of me no one else knows about?
416 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2026
158 people are currently reading
782 people want to read
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April 15, 2026
♾️⭐️
I knew it!! I knew I was going to be absolutely obsessed with these two. And I am. Forever. Can I be Sydney when I grow up?! I don’t have enough words to explain how I feel about this one atm so check back closer to release day. HOT DAMN. I learned a few things too 👀🥵
————————————
I honestly don’t know what to write here to explain how much I loved Steele and Sydney. I mean, from teasers alone I knew I was going to be obsessed.. like can’t shut up about them obsessed. And I am. In true Candi fashion, she brought the swoon, the spice, and the absolutely delicious HEA. I know I say this about everything she writes.. but truly this might be one of the best books she’s ever written imo.
You get everything here. You get the tension. The jealously. The suspense. (yeah, did NOT see that coming but here we are) The spice. (Holy hell, the spice is so good and taught me a few things 👀) and the hilarious internal thoughts and one liners that we all know and love from these books.
Sydney is tasked with cleaning up the image of the newest Renegade player Steele. He’s been through a lot recently, and he’s got a bit of a bad boy reputation. This isn’t going to be an easy task.. especially because Steele doesn’t even want to be here.
Steele just got traded, is down on his luck, not speaking to his family, and is just miserable, honestly. Inside? He’s just sad. Lonely. So when his hot as f one night stand turns out to be the woman he’s got to work with every day? Yeah, let’s just say there’s a lot of confusion for our boy.
I LOVED the back and forth these two experienced. The “do we, don’t we?” The “no kissing” rule (a personal fav 😌) and of course the “can never happen again”. It all flowed so seamlessly and you really got to see them just become.. friends. Candi always writes the most beautiful friendships 🥹
Being back with the Renegades is a guaranteed good time, and I just know you’re going to be head over heels for BOTH these MCs like I am. I want BOAF. One of each. Forever.
Buckle up for lots of “good boy” and “good girl”, lots of crawling, a huge pierced 🍆, a sweet senior pup who naps a lot, a girl group that really is just the best, a tender moment between a certain renegade baby and our new favorite bad boy, and a gag that had me questioning everything I thought I knew about sex toys.
🏈 Owners Daughter / Team Bad Boy
💜 Workplace Romance
🏈 He’s a Dom / She’s a Domme
💜 One Night Stand
🏈 He Leaks Like A Faucet
💜 Piercings EVERYWHERE
🏈 Delicious Dirty Talk
💜 “Good Boy”
🏈 Suspense
💜 Jealous / Possessive MMC
🏈 A 🍆 Cage
I knew it!! I knew I was going to be absolutely obsessed with these two. And I am. Forever. Can I be Sydney when I grow up?! I don’t have enough words to explain how I feel about this one atm so check back closer to release day. HOT DAMN. I learned a few things too 👀🥵
————————————
I honestly don’t know what to write here to explain how much I loved Steele and Sydney. I mean, from teasers alone I knew I was going to be obsessed.. like can’t shut up about them obsessed. And I am. In true Candi fashion, she brought the swoon, the spice, and the absolutely delicious HEA. I know I say this about everything she writes.. but truly this might be one of the best books she’s ever written imo.
You get everything here. You get the tension. The jealously. The suspense. (yeah, did NOT see that coming but here we are) The spice. (Holy hell, the spice is so good and taught me a few things 👀) and the hilarious internal thoughts and one liners that we all know and love from these books.
Sydney is tasked with cleaning up the image of the newest Renegade player Steele. He’s been through a lot recently, and he’s got a bit of a bad boy reputation. This isn’t going to be an easy task.. especially because Steele doesn’t even want to be here.
Steele just got traded, is down on his luck, not speaking to his family, and is just miserable, honestly. Inside? He’s just sad. Lonely. So when his hot as f one night stand turns out to be the woman he’s got to work with every day? Yeah, let’s just say there’s a lot of confusion for our boy.
I LOVED the back and forth these two experienced. The “do we, don’t we?” The “no kissing” rule (a personal fav 😌) and of course the “can never happen again”. It all flowed so seamlessly and you really got to see them just become.. friends. Candi always writes the most beautiful friendships 🥹
Being back with the Renegades is a guaranteed good time, and I just know you’re going to be head over heels for BOTH these MCs like I am. I want BOAF. One of each. Forever.
Buckle up for lots of “good boy” and “good girl”, lots of crawling, a huge pierced 🍆, a sweet senior pup who naps a lot, a girl group that really is just the best, a tender moment between a certain renegade baby and our new favorite bad boy, and a gag that had me questioning everything I thought I knew about sex toys.
🏈 Owners Daughter / Team Bad Boy
💜 Workplace Romance
🏈 He’s a Dom / She’s a Domme
💜 One Night Stand
🏈 He Leaks Like A Faucet
💜 Piercings EVERYWHERE
🏈 Delicious Dirty Talk
💜 “Good Boy”
🏈 Suspense
💜 Jealous / Possessive MMC
🏈 A 🍆 Cage
April 24, 2026
I binged this book in one sitting and have zero regrets. It starts with an absolute BANG 🥵 and yes, I mean that literally.
Steele and Sydney both live the Dom/Domme lifestyle and when a room mixup happens at a sex club one night, everything changes 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨
But then things get messy in the best way when Sydney realizes the new guy on her dad’s football team, the one with the not so great reputation she’s supposed to help fix , is none other than Steele.
I loved these two together. Their chemistry was instant and it felt so natural. They both knew how to take control but also how to give it up for each other and that dynamic was chef’s kiss.
This book was hot and soooo much fun from start to finish!
Thank you so much CL Rose for this ARC 🩷
Steele and Sydney both live the Dom/Domme lifestyle and when a room mixup happens at a sex club one night, everything changes 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨
But then things get messy in the best way when Sydney realizes the new guy on her dad’s football team, the one with the not so great reputation she’s supposed to help fix , is none other than Steele.
I loved these two together. Their chemistry was instant and it felt so natural. They both knew how to take control but also how to give it up for each other and that dynamic was chef’s kiss.
This book was hot and soooo much fun from start to finish!
Thank you so much CL Rose for this ARC 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
Steele Harlow and Sydney Grant didn’t know how much their worlds were going to collide after having a random, accidental night at a kink club together. I’d say this was a perfect meet-cute if you ask me. Steele knocking at the wrong room and then not being able to walk back out the door and deciding to stay, was the best decision he ever made.
We knew this was going to get interesting pretty fast when the next morning Sydney had a meeting with her father’s new football player of the Rock City Renegades. Of course it was her fellow Dom rendezvous from the night before, and the guy who she couldn’t stop thinking about…Steele Harlow.
Steele wasn’t happy to be a part of Cleveland’s team at all, especially coming from the home he built in Miami, or so he thought it was where he belonged. After taking the heat for something his brother did, he needed to prove to his team and his new city that he’s actually the perfect person for the this job. All he needed was the right person to come along and bring meaning into his life, and she sure brought more than that into it.
Steele Harlow IS A GOD! His tattoos, piercings, and the way he was with Sydney Grant was seriously mouth-watering. Pretty sure I was drooling the whole time. They had the best chemistry with each other and were exactly what they both needed. This entire book was just so captivating from start to finish……and that ending!!!!!!! Honestly didn’t even see it coming since I had floggers and chastity cages on my mind the entire time. 😜
Preorder now!!! You will never go wrong with any of Candice’s books! 💜
We knew this was going to get interesting pretty fast when the next morning Sydney had a meeting with her father’s new football player of the Rock City Renegades. Of course it was her fellow Dom rendezvous from the night before, and the guy who she couldn’t stop thinking about…Steele Harlow.
Steele wasn’t happy to be a part of Cleveland’s team at all, especially coming from the home he built in Miami, or so he thought it was where he belonged. After taking the heat for something his brother did, he needed to prove to his team and his new city that he’s actually the perfect person for the this job. All he needed was the right person to come along and bring meaning into his life, and she sure brought more than that into it.
Steele Harlow IS A GOD! His tattoos, piercings, and the way he was with Sydney Grant was seriously mouth-watering. Pretty sure I was drooling the whole time. They had the best chemistry with each other and were exactly what they both needed. This entire book was just so captivating from start to finish……and that ending!!!!!!! Honestly didn’t even see it coming since I had floggers and chastity cages on my mind the entire time. 😜
Preorder now!!! You will never go wrong with any of Candice’s books! 💜
May 10, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Feelings turning the last page: I love them so so much 🥹🥹 and I’m sooo excited for Austin to get his story!!!
10-second synopsis: Steele Harlow is released from his professional football team and is picked up by Cleveland, a team and city he does NOT want to go to. Upon moving there, he has one night with an amazing woman that he hopes he’ll see again….Sydney is the Rock City Renegades’ owner’s daughter, and she’s in charge of cleaning up Steele’s public image, having no idea that he’s the one she spent an amazing night with. Will they be able to work together??
Review: every time I read a Candice book, it’s my new favorite and this is no exception. Sydney and Steele are my new favorite couple and I just LOVE them!!! They both are a little misunderstood but have the biggest hearts. It just took the right person to show them that it’s okay to be who you are. I really enjoyed their relationship development and I appreciated NO 3rd act breakup!! Guys and the tension and romance and passion between these two!!!!!!🔥🔥🔥 I had butterflies numerous times in this book. You want a man who is down bad?? Look no further than Steele Harlow 🤭🤭.
The found family in this series continues to be one of the best, with a healthy dose of our favorites featured in this book. Theo continues to be the adorable man he is, and everyone else are just the sweetest friends.
I wasn’t expecting some suspense in this book and it was so delicious I loved it! A perfect way to have the conflict.
Absolutely can not wait for the last book in the series!!!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Feelings turning the last page: I love them so so much 🥹🥹 and I’m sooo excited for Austin to get his story!!!
10-second synopsis: Steele Harlow is released from his professional football team and is picked up by Cleveland, a team and city he does NOT want to go to. Upon moving there, he has one night with an amazing woman that he hopes he’ll see again….Sydney is the Rock City Renegades’ owner’s daughter, and she’s in charge of cleaning up Steele’s public image, having no idea that he’s the one she spent an amazing night with. Will they be able to work together??
Review: every time I read a Candice book, it’s my new favorite and this is no exception. Sydney and Steele are my new favorite couple and I just LOVE them!!! They both are a little misunderstood but have the biggest hearts. It just took the right person to show them that it’s okay to be who you are. I really enjoyed their relationship development and I appreciated NO 3rd act breakup!! Guys and the tension and romance and passion between these two!!!!!!🔥🔥🔥 I had butterflies numerous times in this book. You want a man who is down bad?? Look no further than Steele Harlow 🤭🤭.
The found family in this series continues to be one of the best, with a healthy dose of our favorites featured in this book. Theo continues to be the adorable man he is, and everyone else are just the sweetest friends.
I wasn’t expecting some suspense in this book and it was so delicious I loved it! A perfect way to have the conflict.
Absolutely can not wait for the last book in the series!!!
May 1, 2026
Thank you to C.L. Rose and her team for providing me with an ARC✨
This was my first time reading this author, and I’m impressed 😮💨. I was expecting a regular sports romance with some spicy scenes, but this was even better omg 🥴. Steele, the man you are… and of course Sydney, the fucking woman. The connection between these two was everything. I read this in one sitting.
I would love to have Sydney’s confidence when it came to putting Steele in his place every time. That man would do anything for his girl, and I loved it 💕
It was amazing seeing Steele grow, become better, and prove to Sydney that he wanted to be better.
But the tension between these two was everything, you could feel the heat between them. I really loved that even though they both wanted control, they knew when to give it up for each other. Their dynamic was amazing and hot as fuck 🫦
I definitely need to go read the other books because now I need Livvy’s story after that confession 🤭🤭
Some of my favs
“You may have me caged right now, with the key around your neck, but make no mistake, Sydney. You belong to me. Do you understand?”
But I’m the biggest winner of all, because Sydney Grant is mine.
This was my first time reading this author, and I’m impressed 😮💨. I was expecting a regular sports romance with some spicy scenes, but this was even better omg 🥴. Steele, the man you are… and of course Sydney, the fucking woman. The connection between these two was everything. I read this in one sitting.
I would love to have Sydney’s confidence when it came to putting Steele in his place every time. That man would do anything for his girl, and I loved it 💕
It was amazing seeing Steele grow, become better, and prove to Sydney that he wanted to be better.
But the tension between these two was everything, you could feel the heat between them. I really loved that even though they both wanted control, they knew when to give it up for each other. Their dynamic was amazing and hot as fuck 🫦
I definitely need to go read the other books because now I need Livvy’s story after that confession 🤭🤭
Some of my favs
“You may have me caged right now, with the key around your neck, but make no mistake, Sydney. You belong to me. Do you understand?”
But I’m the biggest winner of all, because Sydney Grant is mine.
April 30, 2026
Pierced and poppin’ that 🐱? My girl Sydney did not come to play- and neither did Steele 😮💨
Steele Harlow has a chip on his shoulder and is the Rock City Renegades newest player. After a wild night at Velvet Curve with a blonde bombshell he’ll never forget he comes face to face with her again- and she’s now responsible for fixing his image and making sure signing him wasn’t a mistake for the team. As the two try to navigate their chemistry and pull towards each other not only does Steele realize he might have been mistaken in his original take on the team but the woman he can’t get out of his head might just be the exact person for him.
These two were absolutely fire and ice and all of the spice!!! I loved every second of their story in a truly special way that left me wishing there were 87 more chapters of this book. I couldn’t love them anymore. Steele and Sydney both went on journeys of growth and resilience and allowing the other to love them in a way that truly warmed my heart and had me crying from multiple orifices.
♾️⭐️
HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!! I am so endlessly proud of you and the words you put on page. Honored to be by your side and love these characters almost as much as I love you.
Steele Harlow has a chip on his shoulder and is the Rock City Renegades newest player. After a wild night at Velvet Curve with a blonde bombshell he’ll never forget he comes face to face with her again- and she’s now responsible for fixing his image and making sure signing him wasn’t a mistake for the team. As the two try to navigate their chemistry and pull towards each other not only does Steele realize he might have been mistaken in his original take on the team but the woman he can’t get out of his head might just be the exact person for him.
These two were absolutely fire and ice and all of the spice!!! I loved every second of their story in a truly special way that left me wishing there were 87 more chapters of this book. I couldn’t love them anymore. Steele and Sydney both went on journeys of growth and resilience and allowing the other to love them in a way that truly warmed my heart and had me crying from multiple orifices.
♾️⭐️
HAPPY RELEASE DAY!!! I am so endlessly proud of you and the words you put on page. Honored to be by your side and love these characters almost as much as I love you.
May 3, 2026
Spice Level: 🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
🏈 Owner's Daughter/Team Bad Boy
📱 One Night Stand
🏈 Workplace Romance
📱 Hate to Want You
🏈 Dom vs. Domme
📱 Found Family
HOT DAMN! If there is something C.L. Rose knows how to write its panty melting spice. We get an insane amount of spicy variety in this one and I’m so here for it!
The Domme vs. Dom dynamics was so much fun and made for some incredibly hot scenes. Their meet cute was probably one of the best I’ve ever read!
I love how we get to see behind the wall both Sydney and Steele build around themselves. There’s definitely more to both of them than the world gets so see. They bring the best out in each other and despite the fact that they are both dominant characters they fit together so so well.
If you’re into a Domme/Dom switch dynamic, this one is an absolute must read!
🏈 Owner's Daughter/Team Bad Boy
📱 One Night Stand
🏈 Workplace Romance
📱 Hate to Want You
🏈 Dom vs. Domme
📱 Found Family
HOT DAMN! If there is something C.L. Rose knows how to write its panty melting spice. We get an insane amount of spicy variety in this one and I’m so here for it!
The Domme vs. Dom dynamics was so much fun and made for some incredibly hot scenes. Their meet cute was probably one of the best I’ve ever read!
I love how we get to see behind the wall both Sydney and Steele build around themselves. There’s definitely more to both of them than the world gets so see. They bring the best out in each other and despite the fact that they are both dominant characters they fit together so so well.
If you’re into a Domme/Dom switch dynamic, this one is an absolute must read!
April 16, 2026
Red Zone by CL Rose eARC review 🏈
And yet again, another banger by Candice.
The spice, the plot, the found family. Incredible.
The chemistry between Sydney & Steele is insane. I absolutely loved their dynamic and my god, they are HOT.
After an unconventional way of meeting, Sydney and Steele find out they will be working together in an attempt to help Steele’s image in the football world. Under a tough and rough exterior, Steele is such a fricken sweetie. Sydney is able to bring that out in him and help him find his place on the Renegades roster and in their found family.
The spice and kink in this one. Oooof. I was sweating. Both having a dominating personality makes this so fun, hot and let’s just say, Candice knows how to write exceptional spice.
What to expect:
🏈 Owner's Daughter/Team Bad Boy
📱 One Night Stand
🏈 Workplace Romance
📱 Hate to Want You
🏈 Dom vs. Domme
📱 Found Family
Thank you so much Candice for the arc!
And yet again, another banger by Candice.
The spice, the plot, the found family. Incredible.
The chemistry between Sydney & Steele is insane. I absolutely loved their dynamic and my god, they are HOT.
After an unconventional way of meeting, Sydney and Steele find out they will be working together in an attempt to help Steele’s image in the football world. Under a tough and rough exterior, Steele is such a fricken sweetie. Sydney is able to bring that out in him and help him find his place on the Renegades roster and in their found family.
The spice and kink in this one. Oooof. I was sweating. Both having a dominating personality makes this so fun, hot and let’s just say, Candice knows how to write exceptional spice.
What to expect:
🏈 Owner's Daughter/Team Bad Boy
📱 One Night Stand
🏈 Workplace Romance
📱 Hate to Want You
🏈 Dom vs. Domme
📱 Found Family
Thank you so much Candice for the arc!
April 19, 2026
”We’re a perfect match, two identical souls that managed to find each other in this great big world.”
Damn near, highlighted half the book because I was feral for these two!! Sydney & Steele have officially become my new favorite CL Rose book and couple, they were everything!!! The way they both had to push & pull with each other to create the perfect balance, was chefs kiss!! They were sweet, they were fun, the banter omgggg, and don’t even get me started on the spice… yall are NOT ready!!! I love that Sydney brought out the softer side of Steele, to help him see he was right he belonged with the Renegades. And I love the way Steele made Sydney more confident in herself, and finding her “purpose”. They were two perfectly suited people who couldn’t have found a better match with each other!! Also Angus stole my heart the second we met him, and loved how he was a part of their love story too. The elements of suspense we got at the end of the book were everything, and consider this my official petition for Candace to include more of this in her books because I loved!!!!
I also loved all the glimpses we got of our Renegade family and couples, and I am so excited we get Austin’s book next because I have been waiting so patiently!!
If you’re looking for a new series with football, found family, and the sweetest and spiciest couples ever, look no further!!!
Some of my other fave quotes:
“I burned for you, baby… every day until you finally put me out of my misery.”
“I’ll happily spend the rest of my life on my knees for you, Sydney.”
“This woman is everything I could ever want in a partner, and I’ll die before I ever deny her a single one of her desires. She’s mine to fuck. To care for. Forever.”
“You’re so good to me, Steele. I don’t deserve it.” “You deserve all of it and more,” I whisper, leaning in so our faces are inches apart. “Let me give you the world, baby. Let me show you what you’re worth.”
Damn near, highlighted half the book because I was feral for these two!! Sydney & Steele have officially become my new favorite CL Rose book and couple, they were everything!!! The way they both had to push & pull with each other to create the perfect balance, was chefs kiss!! They were sweet, they were fun, the banter omgggg, and don’t even get me started on the spice… yall are NOT ready!!! I love that Sydney brought out the softer side of Steele, to help him see he was right he belonged with the Renegades. And I love the way Steele made Sydney more confident in herself, and finding her “purpose”. They were two perfectly suited people who couldn’t have found a better match with each other!! Also Angus stole my heart the second we met him, and loved how he was a part of their love story too. The elements of suspense we got at the end of the book were everything, and consider this my official petition for Candace to include more of this in her books because I loved!!!!
I also loved all the glimpses we got of our Renegade family and couples, and I am so excited we get Austin’s book next because I have been waiting so patiently!!
If you’re looking for a new series with football, found family, and the sweetest and spiciest couples ever, look no further!!!
Some of my other fave quotes:
“I burned for you, baby… every day until you finally put me out of my misery.”
“I’ll happily spend the rest of my life on my knees for you, Sydney.”
“This woman is everything I could ever want in a partner, and I’ll die before I ever deny her a single one of her desires. She’s mine to fuck. To care for. Forever.”
“You’re so good to me, Steele. I don’t deserve it.” “You deserve all of it and more,” I whisper, leaning in so our faces are inches apart. “Let me give you the world, baby. Let me show you what you’re worth.”
April 20, 2026
ARC Review
As always Candice delivers another scorcher with this one! This is book 4 in the Renegades series and I had so much fun with it, it was seriously addictive and just hit all the right notes for me.
Our MMC is Steele Harlow (that name right?!), a total bad boy whose reputation finally catches up with him, though things are not all what they seem. He ends up going from a successful career to landing in a new city and on a team he doesn’t even respect. Enter Sydney Grant, she’s the owner’s daughter who’s tasked with fixing his image… except they’ve already had a very memorable night together.
From there it’s all tension, attitude, banter and “we should NOT be doing this” energy which I absolutely ate up. Steele is cocky, stubborn, and lowkey a menace, but there’s more going on under the surface that makes him so easy to get invested in. And Sydney, ah gosh I loved her. She holds her own, pushes back, and refuses to let him steamroll her, which just makes their dynamic even better.
We have a domme & a dom going head to head for power but they both find themselves willingly submit to the other and have the best and most electric time doing it! The spice in this was spicing, I was blushing hard and could not put it down! The banter, the chemistry, the push and pull between keeping things professional vs. giving in… SO good. It’s messy in the best way.
This was my first domme x dom dynamic and yeah… it will NOT be my last. I ate that up. The power play, the tension, the way they both try to take control, had me Obsessed.
The showstopper for me was watching both Steele and Syd lower their walls and open up to one another. As soon as they realise they mean more to eachother it is game over - nothing and noones is going to stop them being together - not even the shady people of Steele's past.
I love the found family in this series is amazing! I love catching up with my favourite characters of this series but also having a sneak peek for what’s to come too.
As always Candice delivers another scorcher with this one! This is book 4 in the Renegades series and I had so much fun with it, it was seriously addictive and just hit all the right notes for me.
Our MMC is Steele Harlow (that name right?!), a total bad boy whose reputation finally catches up with him, though things are not all what they seem. He ends up going from a successful career to landing in a new city and on a team he doesn’t even respect. Enter Sydney Grant, she’s the owner’s daughter who’s tasked with fixing his image… except they’ve already had a very memorable night together.
From there it’s all tension, attitude, banter and “we should NOT be doing this” energy which I absolutely ate up. Steele is cocky, stubborn, and lowkey a menace, but there’s more going on under the surface that makes him so easy to get invested in. And Sydney, ah gosh I loved her. She holds her own, pushes back, and refuses to let him steamroll her, which just makes their dynamic even better.
We have a domme & a dom going head to head for power but they both find themselves willingly submit to the other and have the best and most electric time doing it! The spice in this was spicing, I was blushing hard and could not put it down! The banter, the chemistry, the push and pull between keeping things professional vs. giving in… SO good. It’s messy in the best way.
This was my first domme x dom dynamic and yeah… it will NOT be my last. I ate that up. The power play, the tension, the way they both try to take control, had me Obsessed.
The showstopper for me was watching both Steele and Syd lower their walls and open up to one another. As soon as they realise they mean more to eachother it is game over - nothing and noones is going to stop them being together - not even the shady people of Steele's past.
I love the found family in this series is amazing! I love catching up with my favourite characters of this series but also having a sneak peek for what’s to come too.
May 10, 2026
C.L. Rose did it again with this book, this book was everything! Sydney and Steele I couldn’t get enough of these two!
We met Sydney Grant in all of the previous books but we truly didn’t get to know her until now! This woman is fierce, but she is also strong, independent, funny and of course unstoppable. But deep down she has this need to be in control as it covers the insecurities she struggles with. Her sister and dad ask her to clean up the image of their new player Steele Harlow!
Steele Harlow the bad boy who recently traded and struggling with not the best reputation. He is distant from family and stuck in a place he never wanted to be at. But then one night change for the both of them!
The banter between these two was perfect! I won’t be able to put this book down!!
If you want to know what happens between these two then pick up this book you won’t be disappointed!!
We met Sydney Grant in all of the previous books but we truly didn’t get to know her until now! This woman is fierce, but she is also strong, independent, funny and of course unstoppable. But deep down she has this need to be in control as it covers the insecurities she struggles with. Her sister and dad ask her to clean up the image of their new player Steele Harlow!
Steele Harlow the bad boy who recently traded and struggling with not the best reputation. He is distant from family and stuck in a place he never wanted to be at. But then one night change for the both of them!
The banter between these two was perfect! I won’t be able to put this book down!!
If you want to know what happens between these two then pick up this book you won’t be disappointed!!
May 6, 2026
Yet another banger from Candice. I was not ready for Sydney and Steele! The chemistry right from the start from them was something else. The way they both battled for the control, but also had no trouble giving in for the other at the same time. They were hot! The k!nks, the spice in this one was something I’ve never read, I may have had to Google a few things with this one. *deletes google search history*
These two were hotter than hell, but also the sweetest ever! The animal shelter, the hospital and sweet little Angus. This story was overall perfection!
I absolutely love the whole found family of this series! But I’m so freaking ready for my man Austin Baker.
Thank you CL Rose and team for this arc!
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
• owners daughter/team bad boy
• dom vs domme
• one night stand
• workplace romance
• hate to want you
• found family
These two were hotter than hell, but also the sweetest ever! The animal shelter, the hospital and sweet little Angus. This story was overall perfection!
I absolutely love the whole found family of this series! But I’m so freaking ready for my man Austin Baker.
Thank you CL Rose and team for this arc!
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
• owners daughter/team bad boy
• dom vs domme
• one night stand
• workplace romance
• hate to want you
• found family
Review of advance copy received from Author
My jaw was on the floor for half of this book! Whether it was the spice, Sydney's sass, or some unexpected surprises, I ate it alllll up.
Steele and Sydney first encounter each other by chance at a k!nk club and don't share names or personal details. Cue the perfect meet cute the next day AT WORK where Sydney has been tasked with cleaning up the new bad boy player, Steele's image for her family's football team.
What ensues is tension filled chemistry and banter that morphs into something so sweet and whole with a healthy diet of k!nk throughout that delivers a classic C.L. Rose masterpiece.
I love the Renegades found family so much and we get to see so many favorite characters throughout the book. Plus there's an another adorable sidekick dog.
💭 Therapist thoughts: I think the ultimate lesson I take away from Sydney and Steele is that it can be easy to fall into caricatures of ourselves and sometimes connecting with someone who we might have pegged as least compatible is what can make it safest to be fully ourselves. And it's so sweet to be whole and free.
What to expect:
💜 Lots of Banter
💜 Dom vs. Domme
💜 Enemies to Lovers
💜 One Night Stand
💜 Team Owner's Daughter
💜 Found Family
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book and recommend it!
Steele and Sydney first encounter each other by chance at a k!nk club and don't share names or personal details. Cue the perfect meet cute the next day AT WORK where Sydney has been tasked with cleaning up the new bad boy player, Steele's image for her family's football team.
What ensues is tension filled chemistry and banter that morphs into something so sweet and whole with a healthy diet of k!nk throughout that delivers a classic C.L. Rose masterpiece.
I love the Renegades found family so much and we get to see so many favorite characters throughout the book. Plus there's an another adorable sidekick dog.
💭 Therapist thoughts: I think the ultimate lesson I take away from Sydney and Steele is that it can be easy to fall into caricatures of ourselves and sometimes connecting with someone who we might have pegged as least compatible is what can make it safest to be fully ourselves. And it's so sweet to be whole and free.
What to expect:
💜 Lots of Banter
💜 Dom vs. Domme
💜 Enemies to Lovers
💜 One Night Stand
💜 Team Owner's Daughter
💜 Found Family
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book and recommend it!
April 25, 2026
I was literally loving Sydney & Steele from the start and this book was so freaking perfect for them! Their dynamic was literally everything I needed from CL Rose and I couldn’t get enough of them battling for that control! And the spice…holy smokes, grab yourself a fan because its hot! I also really enjoyed seeing how both Steele and Sydney open up to things that they never would have considered before and I truly just love them both so much!
What to expect:
🏈 owner’s daughter
🏈 one night stand
🏈 workplace
🏈 dom vs domme
🏈 found family
What to expect:
🏈 owner’s daughter
🏈 one night stand
🏈 workplace
🏈 dom vs domme
🏈 found family
May 9, 2026
Sydney & Steele are HOT
4.25⭐️ 3-3.5🌶️ ARC REVIEW 📖 RED ZONE 📖 by CL Rose ✨ This is book 4 in the Rock City Renegades series. All of the books are interconnected but can be read as standalones. This started off with a bang - literally. These two are so hot - especially when they are battling for control. Candice leveled up her spice in this one - and the k!nk exploration felt so different. 🙌🏻 We also get gray sweatpants , backwards hats 🧢, hand necklace, and edging. 🥵 Sydney and Steele are made for each other. They have explosive chemistry and a tense push-pull, but that power exchange allows each of them the freedom to be themselves. He sees her - the real her - not just the girl that makes snarky comments. He’s exactly what she needed because he embraces her rather than telling her to tone down her personality, which is relatable and so refreshing. He appreciates her strength and confidence, especially when she acts like she doesn’t need anyone because he knows she just wants to be loved. And Sydney knows Steele is misunderstood - that there’s a soft side under all of the ink, attitude, and playboy facade. Ultimately it was beautiful to see them be the perfect complement to each other. The found family was chefs kiss 🤌🏻, and I can’t wait to get Austin’s story next in book 5.
‘We're push and pull. Give and take. Two jagged edges that were made to fit together in the most picture-perfect way.’
Sydney Grant is the daughter of the owner of the Rock City Renegades football team in Cleveland, and is tasked with turning bad boy Steele Harlow into America’s sweetheart with her social media skills. Steele knows he has one chance to clean up his image and prove himself. He has a bad attitude/reputation but he’s just misunderstood. They have a one night stand (at an exclusive club 🤫). and agree to not exchange names. But the next day at a meeting her dad introduces Steele as the player Sydney will be assigned to fix. Oops.🙊
She’s sarcastic, witty, and doesn’t think anyone takes her seriously. She thinks he’s a playboy and hooking up with random women who slide into his DMs. That’s not the case, though, and he plans on showing her and proving to her he’s not that man. She thinks other women have more to offer, so she has to work extra hard to stand out. He thinks she’s smart, independent, funny.
She trusts him to know how to take care of her when she lets go of some control. He likes her exactly the way she is, so she feels comfortable letting down her walls. He’s her safe place - she can completely let go with him. He’s the cocky bad boy but he can be himself with her - no playboy facade. He wanted a family - a place to belong, and finds that with Sydney. When it’s just the two of them, she lets down her guard, and he can let out some of his softer side. Under all of the tattoos and bad boy act is a big softie.
❤️ She volunteers at the animal shelter
❤️ Jacob’s ladder
❤️ Good boy
❤️ He crawls
❤️ Eyes on me
❤️ He likes to eat
❤️ There’s my good girl
❤️ Aftercare
❤️ He washes her hair
❤️ He pushes it back in
Favorite quotes:
"Oh, you have a Jacob's ladder."
"Is that a problem?"
"Nope, not at all. Now, be a good boy and get
on your kn££s."
Because turned backwards on his head is a black baseball cap with Rock City Renegades embroidered in purple right above the bill. F-ck him. How am I supposed to work in these
conditions?
"You're such a brat. Mark my words, I'll get that kiss sooner or later. And you better pray I show you even an ounce of mercy for making me wait so long."
This beautiful, sassy, exciting woman has made me feel more seen in the short time I've known her than anyone else has in my entire life.
“You're so good to me, Steele. I don't deserve it."
"You deserve all of it and more. Let me give you the world, baby. Let me show you what you're worth."
We're a perfect match, two identical souls that managed to find each other in this great big world. I was always meant to end up here—to end up with her.
With Sydney, I feel that tenfold because whether we've made it official or not, she's mine. Mine to f-ck. Mine to protect. Mine to love.
"You're mine. You may have me caged right now, with the key around your neck, but make no mistake, Sydney. You belong to me. Do you understand?"
"I'm yours, Steele. Only yours."
Read this if you like:
*Football romance
*Owner’s daughter x team bad boy
*D0m vs. D0mme
*ONS
*Workplace romance
*Hate to want you
*They’re both p!erced
*Toys as teammates
*He’s possessive
*Found family
Content warning: k!nk exploration, gambling addiction (not main character), anxiety
Thank you to Candice and The Smuthood for letting me read & review, all opinions are my own.
4.25⭐️ 3-3.5🌶️ ARC REVIEW 📖 RED ZONE 📖 by CL Rose ✨ This is book 4 in the Rock City Renegades series. All of the books are interconnected but can be read as standalones. This started off with a bang - literally. These two are so hot - especially when they are battling for control. Candice leveled up her spice in this one - and the k!nk exploration felt so different. 🙌🏻 We also get gray sweatpants , backwards hats 🧢, hand necklace, and edging. 🥵 Sydney and Steele are made for each other. They have explosive chemistry and a tense push-pull, but that power exchange allows each of them the freedom to be themselves. He sees her - the real her - not just the girl that makes snarky comments. He’s exactly what she needed because he embraces her rather than telling her to tone down her personality, which is relatable and so refreshing. He appreciates her strength and confidence, especially when she acts like she doesn’t need anyone because he knows she just wants to be loved. And Sydney knows Steele is misunderstood - that there’s a soft side under all of the ink, attitude, and playboy facade. Ultimately it was beautiful to see them be the perfect complement to each other. The found family was chefs kiss 🤌🏻, and I can’t wait to get Austin’s story next in book 5.
‘We're push and pull. Give and take. Two jagged edges that were made to fit together in the most picture-perfect way.’
Sydney Grant is the daughter of the owner of the Rock City Renegades football team in Cleveland, and is tasked with turning bad boy Steele Harlow into America’s sweetheart with her social media skills. Steele knows he has one chance to clean up his image and prove himself. He has a bad attitude/reputation but he’s just misunderstood. They have a one night stand (at an exclusive club 🤫). and agree to not exchange names. But the next day at a meeting her dad introduces Steele as the player Sydney will be assigned to fix. Oops.🙊
She’s sarcastic, witty, and doesn’t think anyone takes her seriously. She thinks he’s a playboy and hooking up with random women who slide into his DMs. That’s not the case, though, and he plans on showing her and proving to her he’s not that man. She thinks other women have more to offer, so she has to work extra hard to stand out. He thinks she’s smart, independent, funny.
She trusts him to know how to take care of her when she lets go of some control. He likes her exactly the way she is, so she feels comfortable letting down her walls. He’s her safe place - she can completely let go with him. He’s the cocky bad boy but he can be himself with her - no playboy facade. He wanted a family - a place to belong, and finds that with Sydney. When it’s just the two of them, she lets down her guard, and he can let out some of his softer side. Under all of the tattoos and bad boy act is a big softie.
❤️ She volunteers at the animal shelter
❤️ Jacob’s ladder
❤️ Good boy
❤️ He crawls
❤️ Eyes on me
❤️ He likes to eat
❤️ There’s my good girl
❤️ Aftercare
❤️ He washes her hair
❤️ He pushes it back in
Favorite quotes:
"Oh, you have a Jacob's ladder."
"Is that a problem?"
"Nope, not at all. Now, be a good boy and get
on your kn££s."
Because turned backwards on his head is a black baseball cap with Rock City Renegades embroidered in purple right above the bill. F-ck him. How am I supposed to work in these
conditions?
"You're such a brat. Mark my words, I'll get that kiss sooner or later. And you better pray I show you even an ounce of mercy for making me wait so long."
This beautiful, sassy, exciting woman has made me feel more seen in the short time I've known her than anyone else has in my entire life.
“You're so good to me, Steele. I don't deserve it."
"You deserve all of it and more. Let me give you the world, baby. Let me show you what you're worth."
We're a perfect match, two identical souls that managed to find each other in this great big world. I was always meant to end up here—to end up with her.
With Sydney, I feel that tenfold because whether we've made it official or not, she's mine. Mine to f-ck. Mine to protect. Mine to love.
"You're mine. You may have me caged right now, with the key around your neck, but make no mistake, Sydney. You belong to me. Do you understand?"
"I'm yours, Steele. Only yours."
Read this if you like:
*Football romance
*Owner’s daughter x team bad boy
*D0m vs. D0mme
*ONS
*Workplace romance
*Hate to want you
*They’re both p!erced
*Toys as teammates
*He’s possessive
*Found family
Content warning: k!nk exploration, gambling addiction (not main character), anxiety
Thank you to Candice and The Smuthood for letting me read & review, all opinions are my own.
April 18, 2026
You ever just know before you start a book, you’re going to devour it because it’s a certain author? That’s Candice’s books for me. I knew this one was going to be so freaking good I would finish in a day and not savor it but it was worth it, like it is every time. Sydney and Steele were no exception and I loved every second of reading this.
These two were so hot but so freaking cute at the same time. Give me a bad boy who is a secret marshmallow for his woman every single time! Steele Harlow was all those things in this book and I never wanted this book to end. He was the cutest thing ever and couldn’t get enough of the way he took such good care of Sydney. I was melting every time this man was so cute with her. Sydney in all the other books is just seen as this wild child and I’m so happy we got the other side of her. She just wanted someone to see all of her and embrace it and that is exactly what Steele did! She was the same with Steele. She took such good care of him and just brought out the best parts of hime. It was like they were waiting for each other. Also, both of their inner monologues were cracking me up the entire time.
The power dynamic in this was perfection. I loved that they were both a dom/domme and how that was navigated. I loved that they bent to each other’s wills and how much they really took care of each other. Also, they were really hot together. 10% in and we already got a couple good boys thrown in there. I am always so fascinated by the way Candice’s mind works, woman knows how to write smut in the best possible way. We love a jealous man, and Steele was no exception to this. This man didn’t even know how down bad he was until it was too late. And that first baby always hits just right. I was kicking my legs the first time he said it.
The found family is this series is unmatched because what do you mean this team full of misfits just blend together seamlessly and just fit? And the fact that Steele really worked on himself to become better for Sydney and then was embraced by this family with open arms. It’s everything.
Thank you to CL Rose for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
🏈 Owner’s Daughter/Team Bad Boy
📱 One Night Stand
🏈 Workplace Romance
📱 Hate to Want You
🏈 Dom vs. Domme
📱 Found Family
These two were so hot but so freaking cute at the same time. Give me a bad boy who is a secret marshmallow for his woman every single time! Steele Harlow was all those things in this book and I never wanted this book to end. He was the cutest thing ever and couldn’t get enough of the way he took such good care of Sydney. I was melting every time this man was so cute with her. Sydney in all the other books is just seen as this wild child and I’m so happy we got the other side of her. She just wanted someone to see all of her and embrace it and that is exactly what Steele did! She was the same with Steele. She took such good care of him and just brought out the best parts of hime. It was like they were waiting for each other. Also, both of their inner monologues were cracking me up the entire time.
The power dynamic in this was perfection. I loved that they were both a dom/domme and how that was navigated. I loved that they bent to each other’s wills and how much they really took care of each other. Also, they were really hot together. 10% in and we already got a couple good boys thrown in there. I am always so fascinated by the way Candice’s mind works, woman knows how to write smut in the best possible way. We love a jealous man, and Steele was no exception to this. This man didn’t even know how down bad he was until it was too late. And that first baby always hits just right. I was kicking my legs the first time he said it.
The found family is this series is unmatched because what do you mean this team full of misfits just blend together seamlessly and just fit? And the fact that Steele really worked on himself to become better for Sydney and then was embraced by this family with open arms. It’s everything.
Thank you to CL Rose for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes:
🏈 Owner’s Daughter/Team Bad Boy
📱 One Night Stand
🏈 Workplace Romance
📱 Hate to Want You
🏈 Dom vs. Domme
📱 Found Family
April 16, 2026
If you are a lover of CL Rose and the way she writes football romance but want something a little bit different- this will not disappoint!
You’ve got Steele, he’s been let go from his last team and has joined the Rock City Renegades - begrudgingly. He’s big, confident, has BDE energy —and oh yeah, he’s a Dom… but then, on one of his first nights in Cleveland he meets Sydney at Smex club,(where she frequents) and unbeknownst to him he goes into the wrong room and she completely flips his works upside down! She’s a Domme, who knows exactly what she wants, and she’s not toning herself down for anyone. She takes what she needs, holds no prisoners and despite his better judgement, Steele finds himself on his knees for her- for the first time ever! The power struggle between these two was delicious with each of them taking turns to be in control in such a natural way that showed their deep
connection from that first meeting. Sydney finds herself willingly wanting to submit to Steele, whilst also holding the power to seek out her own needs. The spice??? It was ad hot as the sun on an August day and I loved the way that Steele fell hard and fast for her! Sydney’s unaware of just how incredible she is- something that Steele proceeds to show her continually until she understands that he wants to be hers. Steele isn’t just a pretty face, he’s got layers- that Sydney seems to be able to pull back from him with ease, making him so down bad he’ll do just about anything for her.. let’s not forget to mention the cutest of Angus the dog and the way he loves Steele, and the fact that the rest of the Renegades willingly open there arms to Steele with their beautiful found family energy. Loved it!
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
You’ve got Steele, he’s been let go from his last team and has joined the Rock City Renegades - begrudgingly. He’s big, confident, has BDE energy —and oh yeah, he’s a Dom… but then, on one of his first nights in Cleveland he meets Sydney at Smex club,(where she frequents) and unbeknownst to him he goes into the wrong room and she completely flips his works upside down! She’s a Domme, who knows exactly what she wants, and she’s not toning herself down for anyone. She takes what she needs, holds no prisoners and despite his better judgement, Steele finds himself on his knees for her- for the first time ever! The power struggle between these two was delicious with each of them taking turns to be in control in such a natural way that showed their deep
connection from that first meeting. Sydney finds herself willingly wanting to submit to Steele, whilst also holding the power to seek out her own needs. The spice??? It was ad hot as the sun on an August day and I loved the way that Steele fell hard and fast for her! Sydney’s unaware of just how incredible she is- something that Steele proceeds to show her continually until she understands that he wants to be hers. Steele isn’t just a pretty face, he’s got layers- that Sydney seems to be able to pull back from him with ease, making him so down bad he’ll do just about anything for her.. let’s not forget to mention the cutest of Angus the dog and the way he loves Steele, and the fact that the rest of the Renegades willingly open there arms to Steele with their beautiful found family energy. Loved it!
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
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April 17, 2026
DEAR LAWD CANDICE! HOW DOES EACH BOOK JUST GET BETTER & BETTER?!
If ya know me or follow my reviews, you know that I will read anything that Candice puts out, and holy hell did I devour this one!!! Syd & Steele are TOP TIER, NO NOTES, NO CRUMBS LEFT!
It’s hard to choose a favorite from this series, but Sydney & Steele are it for me! Their dynamic from their first meeting (🥵), their banter, the yearning, the jealousy, the possessiveness, Steele’a protectiveness, their chemistry, THE SPICE (dear GAWD the spice), how they love one another, the suspense, oh & ANGUS! That sweet senior baby🥹 UGH I AM OBSESSED WITH EVERYTHING ABOUT THEM OKAY?!
Also, can we talk about character development?! Steele goes from this closed off bad boy (my catnip I tell ya), pissed off at the world, hates everything Cleveland related to this absolute lover boy who would literally burn the world for Sydney! How he develops with the friend group is so good too. Their intentions talk had me cackling 🤣
The spice in this one was absolutely delish! Domme & Dom, switching, caging, they both have piercings everywhere(!), & “good girl” & “good boy”/“baby boy” galore,,,,bless it, you’re gonna need a fan because I sure as hell did 🥵🔥
Absolutely loved it, couldn’t get enough! I could yap about them all day if you give me the chance 🥹
Okay, one more thing…I cried like a baby during the epilogue 😆
*THANK YOU C.L. Rose for the ARC & opportunity to review!*
If ya know me or follow my reviews, you know that I will read anything that Candice puts out, and holy hell did I devour this one!!! Syd & Steele are TOP TIER, NO NOTES, NO CRUMBS LEFT!
It’s hard to choose a favorite from this series, but Sydney & Steele are it for me! Their dynamic from their first meeting (🥵), their banter, the yearning, the jealousy, the possessiveness, Steele’a protectiveness, their chemistry, THE SPICE (dear GAWD the spice), how they love one another, the suspense, oh & ANGUS! That sweet senior baby🥹 UGH I AM OBSESSED WITH EVERYTHING ABOUT THEM OKAY?!
Also, can we talk about character development?! Steele goes from this closed off bad boy (my catnip I tell ya), pissed off at the world, hates everything Cleveland related to this absolute lover boy who would literally burn the world for Sydney! How he develops with the friend group is so good too. Their intentions talk had me cackling 🤣
The spice in this one was absolutely delish! Domme & Dom, switching, caging, they both have piercings everywhere(!), & “good girl” & “good boy”/“baby boy” galore,,,,bless it, you’re gonna need a fan because I sure as hell did 🥵🔥
Absolutely loved it, couldn’t get enough! I could yap about them all day if you give me the chance 🥹
Okay, one more thing…I cried like a baby during the epilogue 😆
*THANK YOU C.L. Rose for the ARC & opportunity to review!*
April 30, 2026
I had high expectations after the last 3 books, I loved them all very much and this one definitely meet the expectations and beyond! I definitely found my favorite couple, pls don't tell the others lol.
The dom/domme situation gives us the best pulling for dominance between Steele and Sydney. And while Steele is definitely a dom, he is suprise by himself when gave his submission from the start! Those scenes between them are to die for. Love the vibe and feelings in the book but also the support/communication they have together.
He would burn the world down for her and make her feel seen and that is what she exactly needs after being in the shadow for forever and feels like the black sheep of the family.
He is the bad boy every girl would swoon over but his reputation is not for the best, do to some estranged family members. Can he turn over the leave and be the person he really is or wants to be and find his found family and get his girl. Go read this book and find out!!
The dom/domme situation gives us the best pulling for dominance between Steele and Sydney. And while Steele is definitely a dom, he is suprise by himself when gave his submission from the start! Those scenes between them are to die for. Love the vibe and feelings in the book but also the support/communication they have together.
He would burn the world down for her and make her feel seen and that is what she exactly needs after being in the shadow for forever and feels like the black sheep of the family.
He is the bad boy every girl would swoon over but his reputation is not for the best, do to some estranged family members. Can he turn over the leave and be the person he really is or wants to be and find his found family and get his girl. Go read this book and find out!!
April 19, 2026
THIS BOOK. This damn book. I’m truly unsure of who I’m in love with more.. Steele Harlow or Sydney Grant because I can tell you this.. I have the biggest girl crush on our girl here.. Like, damn, Candice. You win. You wrote the world’s hottest couple, and made me fall in love with both characters equally. The character development from both Syd + Steele was phenomenal, and I absolutely devoured their k!nky life style. These two were literally a match made in heaven, and I loved every second of their story. This book was hands down the hottest book by far, that I have read, and each book just keeps getting better and better! I also have to take a minute to appreciate our old man Angus too 🫶🏼
May 4, 2026
Every time I think that CL Rose can’t possible out do herself with MMCs, she says “hold my beer” because I literally thought no one not one MMC could beat Tanner in QB Keeper. Not one. Then I met Theo in the Interception & god almighty that man 😮💨 but now that I know Steele? Goodbye yall 👋 I’m in a committed relationship with him AND Sydney until further notice ✋ also dont even get me started on the PERFECTION that is Sydney Grant. I worship her AND CL Rose 🫠 anyways yall this book was infinity stars. I am at a loss for words. Perhaps that’s why it took me so long to review. This book is perfection. No notes. & I’ll accept zero criticism. Play with ya momma not me.
May 2, 2026
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
This book was good with the unique power play between the main characters that remained consistent throughout the novel. I was worried that our fmc might lose her edge as the book progressed but was happy to see that not happen.
Regarding the plot, I felt the pacing was sometimes slow for me and that the romance was very much a fast burn. I would have like a little more time spent building the emotional attraction to one another not just the physical.
This book was good with the unique power play between the main characters that remained consistent throughout the novel. I was worried that our fmc might lose her edge as the book progressed but was happy to see that not happen.
Regarding the plot, I felt the pacing was sometimes slow for me and that the romance was very much a fast burn. I would have like a little more time spent building the emotional attraction to one another not just the physical.
April 29, 2026
4.5⭐️
3.5🌶️
Umm is it hot in her or just me?! Wow this book was hotttt! Steele and Sydney are match made in heaven. I loved how Steele was tough and guarded around pretty much everyone but Sydney. She got him to open up and show who he truly was. This was probably one of if not my favorite book couples that C.L. has wrote. She never misses and her storytelling is top tier.
Tropes:
Owners Daughter/Team Bad Boy
Workplace
Hate to Want you
Dom vs Domme
Found Family
3.5🌶️
Umm is it hot in her or just me?! Wow this book was hotttt! Steele and Sydney are match made in heaven. I loved how Steele was tough and guarded around pretty much everyone but Sydney. She got him to open up and show who he truly was. This was probably one of if not my favorite book couples that C.L. has wrote. She never misses and her storytelling is top tier.
Tropes:
Owners Daughter/Team Bad Boy
Workplace
Hate to Want you
Dom vs Domme
Found Family
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to CL Rose for the eARC of Red Zone!
Ok, this is the best book Candice has written. I am OBSESSED with these two. The dynamics between these two were so, so hot. I couldn't get enough. I was so invested that I didn't even realize I flew through over 400 pages so quickly. I loved the dom vs domme dynamics, but I also loved the soft moments of the story. I mean, a grumpy senior dog who doesn't really like men but immediately cuddles up to Steele? SOLD.
Ok, this is the best book Candice has written. I am OBSESSED with these two. The dynamics between these two were so, so hot. I couldn't get enough. I was so invested that I didn't even realize I flew through over 400 pages so quickly. I loved the dom vs domme dynamics, but I also loved the soft moments of the story. I mean, a grumpy senior dog who doesn't really like men but immediately cuddles up to Steele? SOLD.
April 30, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Sydney and Steele’s dynamic was so fun and different that anything I’ve read and I loved every second! The tension from the very beginning sucked me in and I couldn’t get enough.
I typically don’t read a lot of domme books, but I really enjoyed the push and pull between these two and how they were able to meet in the middle, while also pushing each others limits. It was definitely a spicy good time as we can expect from all of CL Rose’s books! 🤭
Thank you so much to CL Rose for the opportunity to receive and review this eARC 💗 all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Tropes:
🏈 Owner’s Daughter/Team Bad Boy
📱 One Night Stand
🏈 Workplace Romance
📱 Hate-to-Want-You
🏈 Dom vs. Domme
📱 Found Family
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Sydney and Steele’s dynamic was so fun and different that anything I’ve read and I loved every second! The tension from the very beginning sucked me in and I couldn’t get enough.
I typically don’t read a lot of domme books, but I really enjoyed the push and pull between these two and how they were able to meet in the middle, while also pushing each others limits. It was definitely a spicy good time as we can expect from all of CL Rose’s books! 🤭
Thank you so much to CL Rose for the opportunity to receive and review this eARC 💗 all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Tropes:
🏈 Owner’s Daughter/Team Bad Boy
📱 One Night Stand
🏈 Workplace Romance
📱 Hate-to-Want-You
🏈 Dom vs. Domme
📱 Found Family
April 30, 2026
Trust me when I tell you this lady does no wrong! The chemistry and tension between Sydney and Steele was electric. The banter, the spice, the flirting, the romance, the angst, the vulnerability while discovering what each of them was ok with was just delicious!!!!! The way that man was so down bad for her had me kicking my feet, the scene with the blindfold had me clutching my heart because it was too sweet. Ugh I loved it all. Please never stop writing.
May 4, 2026
Not gonna lie, I’m still pretty disappointed with the previous book, so I didn’t dare having high hopes for this one, but I was positively surprised.
I loved the power dynamic, I loved the somewhat refreshing plot, considering the basic tropes and even though nothing much happened it terms of the plot (even the drama towards the one was very quickly and easily resolved), I had fun with Syd and Steele.
Honestly, they’re my favorite couple in the series and I love that for me!
I loved the power dynamic, I loved the somewhat refreshing plot, considering the basic tropes and even though nothing much happened it terms of the plot (even the drama towards the one was very quickly and easily resolved), I had fun with Syd and Steele.
Honestly, they’re my favorite couple in the series and I love that for me!
April 26, 2026
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I didn’t know I would live each MMC more every CL book I READ!!!
Steele is so hot and who better to show him how to calm himself than sassy Sydney. She has alway felt like second best and created a whole secret life to allow herself to be free. Little did she know agreeing to help her dad and sister would bring her to her match. But she already knew him… intimately!!
#redzone #clroseauthor #risareads221reviews
I didn’t know I would live each MMC more every CL book I READ!!!
Steele is so hot and who better to show him how to calm himself than sassy Sydney. She has alway felt like second best and created a whole secret life to allow herself to be free. Little did she know agreeing to help her dad and sister would bring her to her match. But she already knew him… intimately!!
#redzone #clroseauthor #risareads221reviews
May 3, 2026
4.5 rounded up. I loved this, it was fun, super sexy and sweet. Not to mention there were a bunch more Cleveland references in this one which I always appreciate. That said the “conflict” plot was underdeveloped and flimsy. Also thought there should have been more “confrontation” with her dad.
May 3, 2026
STEELE MF HARLOW 😩😩 what a man. I’m so obsessed with the way Syd and Steele just completed each other. Please don’t even get me started on how specular the spice was. The found family in this series is my favorite.
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