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Last to Fall #2

His Game His Rules

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Some snakes are worth the bite, and some kings are worth kneeling for.

Emmaleen
Thirty-seven day-one demerits.
One double or nothing dare.
And zero chance I'm leaving this dungeon, like... ever.

I’m the world's most inconvenient Word Collector. Giovanni Bavga’s biggest liability. I won the last game… technically.
But this one isn’t meant to make me stay.
It’s meant to make me leave.

His game, his rules... until surrendering to him became the only way to win.

Giovanni
Control isn't something you keep—it's something you lose the moment you care.

Little Miss Take recites her penance like prayers and writes poetry that destroys me. Now I'm the one unraveling while she kneels between my legs like she was made for my throne.

Emmaleen Rouke needs to break.
In half.
In pieces.
In a hurry if she wants to stay alive.

I need her in love with her chains and the lock on the door.

My crown, my kingdom... until keeping her became the only way to save her life.

The Last to Fall series is an intense deep dive into the psyche of possession, obsession, and what one man will do to keep the woman he loves alive.

Inside the pages you can
Dark Mafia Romance
Captive Romance
Obsessive Possessive Hero
Total Power Exchange
Morally Gray Villain Hero
Praise-Coded Hero
Brat Dynamics
Possessive Claiming
Beauty & The Beast
Trainer/Student

371 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 26, 2026

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About the author

J.A. Huss

158 books9,120 followers
J.A. Huss never wanted to be a writer and she still dreams of that elusive career as an astronaut. She originally went to school to become an equine veterinarian but soon figured out they keep horrible hours and decided to go to grad school instead. That Ph.D wasn’t all it was cracked up to be (and she really sucked at the whole scientist thing), so she dropped out and got a M.S. in forensic toxicology just to get the whole thing over with as soon as possible.

After graduation she got a job with the state of Colorado as their one and only hog farm inspector and spent her days wandering the Eastern Plains shooting the shit with farmers. After a few years of that, she got bored. And since she was a homeschool mom and actually does love science, she decided to write science textbooks and make online classes for other homeschool moms. She wrote more than two hundred of those workbooks and was the number one publisher at the online homeschool store many times, but eventually she covered every science topic she could think of and ran out of shit to say.

So in 2012 she decided to write fiction instead. That year she released her first three books and started a career that would make her a New York Times bestseller and land her on the USA Today Bestseller’s List eighteen times in the next three years. Her books have sold millions of copies all over the world, the audio version of her semi-autobiographical book, Eighteen, was nominated for a Voice Arts Award and an Audie award in 2016 and 2017 respectively, her audiobook Mr. Perfect was nominated for a Voice Arts Award in 2017, and her book, Taking Turns, was nominated for an Audie Award in 2018. Johnathan McClain is her first (and only) writing partner and even though they are worlds apart in just about every way imaginable, it works.

She lives on a ranch in Central Colorado with her family.

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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Lisa (Two Bookish Brits).
993 reviews172 followers
June 2, 2026
His Game His Rules is the second book in the Last to Fall series by JA Huss and follows exactly where book one left with Emmaleen still caught up in Giovanni’s games.

In book one we get a taste of what Giovanni’s wants, in book two we get the whole damn view. He likes control, he likes complete submission and this book it showcases exactly what he wants.

He’s completely obsessed with Emmaleen and will do whatever it takes to make sure she stays his and his only. So when another steps in to help condition Emmaleen his possessive nature shines very brightly.

This book is entirely about submission and control, shaping Emmaleen into what Giovanni needs. It’s very intense.

It’s definitely a heavy read and I wasn’t too in to it tbh but JA Huss is a brilliant writer and I can’t wait for the next instalment after that cliffhanger.
Profile Image for MissPetiteBrunetteBookBlog.
1,525 reviews274 followers
May 27, 2026
We are back where book 1 left off with Emmaleen Rourke still caught Giovanni Bavga’s game. He can’t get her out of his mind and will do what he has too to get her to obey but can he truly rule her completely or will she rule him too. This has alot of teaching D/s to Emmaleen who is still defiant. Can he make her what he wants before their two weeks are up? I felt not much happens in this one until the epilogue preparing you for book 3. In this underworld he is apart of are you safer under their control? Told in first person and multiple POV.
Profile Image for WonderWomanNZ.
1,541 reviews1 follower
July 27, 2026
3.75
This book drops you straight into the game, and once you are in, it is clear the game is the whole point. Control, rules, pressure, and the psychology of dominance are where this story lives.

It feels very different from book one. JA Huss still nails character psychology, but this time everything is funneled into the dom and submissive dynamic. The entire story sits inside that structure, with Emmaleen learning the rules and navigating a world where every move is dictated by someone else’s power.

Giovanni is even more obsessive here, focused, calculating, determined to break her down fast because he thinks it is the only way she will survive. The power dynamics are constant and sharp. And then there is Jino, the dom Giovanni pulls into the game. His presence adds weight and intensity, shifting the tone into something darker and more layered.

There were moments where it almost felt like a psychological thriller, not because of twists, but because the tension sits entirely in the mind. Manipulation, obedience, and the unraveling that comes with being trapped inside someone else’s rules.

I did not enjoy this one as much. It gets repetitive, especially when circling the same explanations of the dom and submissive dynamic. I sped it up in places. But even with that, something kept me listening. I still needed to know what happened and how far Giovanni would push her.

There is plenty of spice, understatement of the year, because the whole book is built around that dynamic. Jason Clarke and Samantha Summers keep the tension alive with strong narration.

And the last fifteen minutes introduce a new character, and he is an Irishman. Absolute panty melting energy. I am genuinely excited to see how he shapes the next book because I love an Irish accent and I cannot wait to hear how it plays out, plus it ended on a cliffhanger.

Darker, focused, psychological, and intense, even when I was not loving every moment, I still needed to see how the game ended.
Profile Image for Randy O'Keefe.
30 reviews
June 5, 2026
A new game, a new man and a double or nothing like never before. In this book, Emmaleen once again chooses her chains but Giovanni has a completely different set of rules as he's went from dominating to domination. He's determined to control every facet of her life and she willingly agrees because she loves him. And then there's the new man, who follows Giovanni out of loyalty but is also just as eager to lead her away from Giovanni and straight to his bed for lessons in obedience, pleasure and possibly those of the heart.

I admit, it took me awhile to become as immersed in this book as I was in the first because it was such a 180 turnaround. Giovanni's cool, controlled demeanor is beginning to show major cracks and Emmaleen's fierce determination to rebel has fallen away to acquiescing with almost every demand.

What grabbed my attention and wouldn't let go was the psychological drama between the three. Each man and Emmaleen had different reasons for agreeing to her new way of life. It was fascinating to learn everyone's reasoning and how it was etched so deeply from their pasts that it shaped their entire futures. The men see the lessons as the only way to save Emmaleen's life and she sees it as the only way to stay with Giovanni. What started as a challenge to drive her away for her own safety has now become the ultimate mission to keep her with him. There's also a twist at the end that I never saw coming so thank goodness the last book, Our Pain Our Pleasure, comes out in a few weeks! I can't wait to play one last game to see who will emerge as a victor and who will be the last to fall. I received an advanced copy of this book and am providing my 100% honest review.
Profile Image for Amanda M.
3,347 reviews16 followers
May 26, 2026
Omg I'm done for after reading this. A masterpiece in itself. This one takes things up a notch and I am here for it. Every detail, every carefully placed word, and every piece of the narrative gradually builds up into this crescendo that falls into line with precision and hits precisely at the moment needed. The buildup was incredible. The way the story unfolds, unravels, and becomes something more you just can feel the progression with palpable tension that builds gradually. One thing that really stood out for me about this book, that follows suit from the previous and that I liked was that everything boiled down to being a choice. This author nailed it writing this concept weaving it into the storyline hitting vital points to clearly demonstrate that choice is key to everything. Then there's another layer to this narrative that takes things to a whole other level and that was by bringing in the cousin Jino. I think this helped to bring a different type of dynamic to the narrative and it demonstrates the level of commitment Giovanni has in his game his rules for Emmaleen. And finally that plot twist at the end, that surprise, it will definitely catch you by surprise. I know it did for me at least. I cannot wait for the next piece of this incredible story. I am here for it and ready for whatever's to come. Thanks so much to the author for a copy of this. All opinions are my own and freely expressed.
Profile Image for Marsha.
1,281 reviews32 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 25, 2026
My oh my! Emmalean comes back for more. This is the second book, and you can probably read it without the other, but there are certain things that happen in book one, that are mentioned in this book, that you may not understand, or understand the full meaning, so I would highly suggest reading book one first. (Her Chains Her Choice.) Plus this will give you a better understanding of their dynamics. This is all about submission, and the role of the dominant. Giovanni hires help to do the training that he cannot do. This brings a third party into their lives, who throws off the balance. It is high on the BDSM. There is, obviously, sexual content, but the story itself isn't so much about that. It's about willingness to submit, pleasure from pain, and just what one person needs from another (and what you're willing to do to get those needs met.) It alternates POVs. This is a darker read, but there are a few moments with some humor (mostly at Emmaleans ramblings.) It reads easily. It does get pretty deep with the inner dialogs the characters have. While they are looking into themselves to see what makes them tick. It is a heavy read with lots of emotion. It does end with a cliffhanger, but not the kind that will have you screaming at the author. lol
Profile Image for Marci Crawford.
292 reviews5 followers
May 29, 2026
I love the way Huss just puts it all out there and lets the reader decide how they want to interpret the information.

I’m reading this thinking I would definitely be taking the key and running! But not Emmaleen, and honestly she really needs to use that money for therapy. But then, as I got deeper into the story, I started getting it. I probably relate more to Giovanni than anyone else, and that’s scary in itself and maybe something that needs exploring further… maybe. But I also understand why she’s made the choice to stay. And then that ending? Left me here spiraling and needing the next book ASAP. But I’ll wait.

Reading is so subjective. What one reader loves, another hates, and there will probably be people who hate the dynamics of this book, and possibly the whole series, because it’s uncomfortable, unrelatable, or for any number of reasons. But those same things may be exactly why others absolutely love this story: because it opens up worlds we didn’t know were possible, feelings we kept locked away, or parts of ourselves we don’t always want to examine.

Really well done. Another amazing addition.

Thank you to the author for this advanced copy.
Profile Image for Wendy LeGrand.
1,338 reviews55 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 20, 2026
This book felt like a master class in all the ways that power and submission play their parts in a BDSM relationship. The dynamic between Emmaleen and Giovanni is tenfold of what it was in book one. And add in Jino, the "Master" who is training "Miss Take" in all the ways that she will submit to Giovanni, all while she is creating her own power, was almost too much. My mind was blown.

I have read quite a few BDSM series over the years, but nothing even close to how in depth and intricate this story went. Being inside Emmaleen's head, what she was thinking, experiencing, feeling, made me feel like I was a voyeur standing in a dark corner of that basement, watching everything unfold. Did it take me out of my comfort zone? Oh, hell yeah. But it was also fascinating to watch the slow unfolding of all that takes place and the transformation of Emmaleen. And also, Giovanni, truth be told.

That ending? Not at all what I was expecting, and I can't wait to find out how this series ends!
1,219 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 23, 2026
The first book in the series, Her Chains, Her Choice introduced a frazzled Emmaleen Rourke and the suave mob boss, Giovanni Bavga. As playful as the dynamic was between these two in the first book, tensions are extremely high in this second book when Giovanni can't let go of his obsession with Emmaleen, especially since she witnessed him commit murder. He tried to send her away, but she's equally obsessed with him and re-engaged him in their game play, except the stakes are now much higher. In an attempt to protect Emmaleen from his family, Giovanni contracts with his cousin, Jino, and together they devise an elaborate plan using BDSM techniques. Author JA Huss steps up the dynamic of this series by bringing Jino into the picture as a bridge to smooth out the complicated relationship between Emmaleen and Giovanni.The next book promises to amp this story to another level, and I am ready for it!
Jason Clarke reprises his role as Giovanni and Samantha Summers returns as Emmaleen. Excellent performances!!
96 reviews1 follower
June 3, 2026
Julie, this author, writes such diverse stories you really don't know what her box of chocolates will contain. Certainly nothing you have had before. Her series of books are all so vastly different, unique, surprising and some twisty.

Book 2 takes a more intensely dark direction. This is a book of fiction, not a how to guide. Giovanni's game amps up like a rocket and not in a feel good way.

A third character, Jino, is brought in as a consultant of sorts, with hands on training. He has certain motives for training as does Giovanni, which will most possibly take you out of your comfort zone. Unrelatable heavy things usually do.

I do enjoy Emmalean's humorous word ramblings and inner dialogue.
She understands what is happening and it is Her Choice to double down and continue her rebuilding process, understanding the devil on Giovanni's shoulder is in his head.

So many questions, are there wrecked souls? True belief of wanted freedom? Conflicting outcomes?
I surmise we will find out in book 3! Darn cliffy's, love 'em and hate 'em!
Profile Image for Mimiorphee.
724 reviews41 followers
June 1, 2026
What to say about this whiplash-filled story? Well, first thing that comes to my mind is that I loved it. I loved hating it. Or hated loving it. Just like all the characters, I don't really know where I stand, but that's a story I surely didn't expected and still enjoyed. The tone is so different from that first opus fun ride. His Game His Rules is way darker. In its theme but in the fact that this is so wrong. It sounded wrong, and I kept wondering if one of them weren't going to slip and make it all the more fucked-up.
To say it was psychological doesn't cover it up. Psychologically wrong. Psychological abuse. Psychologically traumatic.
And all the same, I came back for more chapters.
But with an ending like this one's? I'm begging for the next, and last book. I can't wait. Well done Mrs. Huss!
Profile Image for Jennifer Kincaid.
39 reviews1 follower
May 29, 2026
I just love JA Huss's mind. It amazes me how she can keep you guessing and never see those twists coming!!! This is book 2 of the series I do feel you need to read these in order and necessary to read book 1 just to get the back story and learn the dynamics between the characters. I just absolutely love Emmalen's inner monologue she cracks me up and the way the story is written it just makes you feel like you are there with her and Giovanni and Jino . This book is darker than the last and heavy on BDSM but I love how the story develops and Jino's teachings with Giovanni's reactions I just loved every word. I can not wait for BOOK 3!!!
Profile Image for Terri West.
2,264 reviews
June 5, 2026
Wow, if I thought the first book was good, this one has taken off with the power of a jet aircraft.
Evangeleen has made a decision that most folk will think is insane, however, it is once again her decision. Meanwhile Giovanni has reached what most of us would consider psychopathic in the very least. Then introduce Jino, the true BDSM master who has to navigate this twisted world with our other two MMCs.
I consumed this second book in just over a day (adulting got in the way, ya know).
It's been a while since I have been so fully invested in a story. I lived this book and my only regret is I have to wait until 23rd June to see where Julie is going to drag us next.
If you enjoy dark sexy reads with broken souls in the spotlight I cannot recommend this enough.
Profile Image for Marsha.
111 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 22, 2026
Power dynamics. Freedom of choice.

First, become familiar with CW’s. Second, wow! This book held me captive right along with Emmaleen. I chose to be there with her through her destruction. Held my breath through her rebuild. And applauded through her recitations.This book is not for the feint of heart. And is book 2 in this series. This is not a feel good happily ever after. This is where tragedy strikes and leaves welts. This is where trauma allows you to choose for yourself. No matter your downfall the path you walk is always yours for the choosing.
Profile Image for Joy Whiteside.
5,106 reviews123 followers
May 26, 2026
This was an amazing book that I could not put down. From the moment that you start reading you are hooked and have to keep at it. This book moves along at a pace that is perfect for the flow of the story. Which makes for an easy and enjoyable read. These characters are amazing and no matter what they do, you can't help but love them. This book, wow, needs to be read. This book has made its way to the top of my list for favorite reads.
Profile Image for Linda.
692 reviews4 followers
May 30, 2026
So this is book 2 to this trilogy. Without giving much away I do feel some readers need to know to is now a bit different then book one where it's no longer about 1 male 1 female. In some sense it's kind of a throuple...but it isn't...but it is. This wasn't my favorite book to be honest in the trilogy. Not much happened except the cliffhanger ending. Most of the book is solely about Dom training. Let's see how book 3 comes into play
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
84 reviews1 follower
May 29, 2026
Here I am again

So, that got darker than book 1 pretty fast!
If you’re reading this to see what you might think of the series, just give it a try. If you’re not familiar with the work of J A Huss do a bit of research to find your entry point….. but wherever you start her work is never a disappointment.
Profile Image for Reva Coomer.
2,170 reviews
May 30, 2026
This took a turn...

...that I didn't see coming. Wow, what a game His Game turned out to be. I wasn't sure where this book was going to lead when I first started it. I did not think that the Giovanni we know would allow.....if you know you know! If you don't, what are you waiting for? I love Julie books because you never know how they are going to unfold.
Profile Image for Kay.
387 reviews1 follower
June 9, 2026
The story continues with Giovanni letting Emaleen decide if she wants to play his game with his rules. This story delves deeper into the dark monster that is part of Giovanni. This is a darker, deeper part of the story. I can’t wait to see what else Giovanni has up his sleeve for Emaleen and what she has up her sleeve for him.
Profile Image for ChristinaB.reads.
697 reviews4 followers
June 29, 2026
This series continued to keep me hooked. The tension between Giovanni and Emmaleen only intensified, and I loved watching Emmaleen stand her ground while Giovanni's obsession spiralled further out of control. And Jino? Every scene with him had me wanting more.

The twists just kept coming, the mind games never let up, and that ending had me staring at the page thinking OMG.
91 reviews
May 31, 2026
The second book in the trilogy and it doesn't disappoint. Lots of character exploration and intensity. The twist at the end is leaving me desperate for book three.
Profile Image for Jenna.
1,716 reviews66 followers
June 2, 2026
🤩4.5 stars🤩
Profile Image for Lauren.
408 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 7, 2026
I literally have no idea how to review this! Julie you blew my mind! This series has captured my attention in a way a series hasn’t in a very long time. It’s dark and filthy and funny. I somehow feel like I should be questioning my sanity reading this series.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews