I don't know when it happened. I didn't think it'd ever happen. I can't lose her. I can't even imagine losing her. Rule #6 – This is supposed to be fun. Understand? He's my bad boy and I'm his good girl. And, yes, he's my stepbrother and I'm his stepsister. He wasn't always, though. We aren't just that. There's a lot more to us. Sometimes you need to follow your heart, or else you'll regret it for the rest of your life. You don't always have a choice in who you fall in love with. Sometimes you can't be perfect. You just have to be yourself. Sometimes that's what makes you perfect.
Dirty, dirty, dirty. 🥳 Of course, there's more to Ethan and Ashley than romps but those are fun and dirty. I like how Ethan grows, even if slowly, and the parental units are also making strides of different kinds. Ashley's mom is hilarious!
I listened to an author's copy of the audio book with CJ Bloom and James Cavenaugh leading the charge. Both are well suited for the characters. If there was one thing I could change, it'd be that the books were done in duet narration. Second thing I might change would be CJ's version of Ashley's mom's voice. It sounds more grandmotherly than a woman likely in her 40s.
This book is, as Ethan would call it, "cute as f#%k"! Im loving the flow of the story and seeing Ashley & Ethan's relationship grow. Spoilers: the "i love you's" have been said! Yay! The moment I've been waiting for. Im worried about what Ethan's dad will say about all the f#%kery going on between his children, but at least Ashley's mom was cool about it. Im not happy with jake still walking around causing havoc... Ethan seriously needs to break his face! Grrr... 5 super-sexy-as-f#%k-stars!
I was a bit let down by this one. I wish the thing with Jake would have played out a little differently. I also wasn't too big a fan of the kissing and cuddling, because I wanted to read more. There was only one sex scene here and it wasn't until the very end of the book, right before Ashley and Ethan decide to confess their love for each other, which also kind of puts a damper on things for me. It was more interesting when they were doing this thing as a secret, but now the mom knows, and I don't know if their relationship will seem as exciting now.
Had a beautiful review typed up on my phone and for some reason when I hit ‘save’ it deleted it!! Wtf, never again on my phone!!! Here we go again, I know I’ll be forgetting some stuff…
First of all…. phew *fans face* HOOOOOTTTTTT!!! Not gonna lie, the best thing about these novellas were Ashley and Colton’s sex scenes, they burnt up the pages!! Colton was a very dominant (though, not in a BDSM-y way), take charge guy who knew what he wanted and went out and took it- literally!! Ashley was a little shy, but was curious and willing to try new things sexually, which Colton was all but happy to show her. While they didn’t get too crazy, wild, out-of-the-box in these first 6 installments, there was talk that promised we’ll see a lot more variety, in future novellas.
Colton was, by his own admission, an asshole and a prick. He was constantly calling himself a prick, cocky, asshole and bad-boy, saying that he’s no good for Ashley… well, get over yourself, kid! If you want this girl and you know that you are no good for her, well then fucking CHANGE SOMETHING!?! I have no time for someone with this kind of insecurity. I didn’t like that he swore waaaaayyy too much and used crude language often unnecessarily. He did soften towards Ashley eventually- ok, almost immediately- even if he didn’t want to admit it to himself!
Ashley was sorely lacking in competent lovers before Colton, the poor girl. She was curious and open to doing new things sexually and Colton was more than happy to show her the ropes. She was a little more touchy-feely than I think Colton was prepared for, “forcing” him to cuddle- the horrors!! She wore him down, though, and in the end he grew to want to cuddle, lol. As far as her character goes… we don’t get a lot of personality from her. She’s supposedly a good-y two shoes and a smart girl, but it’s kind of hard to see that when she’s getting down and dirty with her step-brother, lol. She was about to do a very stupid thing, though, at the end with Jake… how could she think that was going to work!? Basically she was
The thing I hated most about this book was how the author made the characters talk directly to the reader. There was a lot of don’t judge us, we’re only step-siblings so it’s ok, whinny nonsense. Colton was particularly fond of telling us that it’s none of our business, wouldn’t you like to know, “fuck you,” and lots of putting himself down. It’s not ok with me when all of a sudden the characters decide to “break the fourth wall,” so to speak, and speak directly to the reader and it happened at least at the beginning of every chapter and then interspersed throughout. You… yeah, you reading this right now. What the hell?! Why are you even reading this review, I’m nothing but a shitty writer who gives no fucking literary critique whatsoever, so you shouldn’t take me seriously. You don’t like it, well fuck you! ..... Annoying, huh? Yeah, it was a little like that right there (language and all- my apologies on that, btw, but I wanted to get my point across).
These were a couple great reads so far; although it was kind of lacking as far any deeper plot, I loved to see Ashley and Colton grow closer- not to mention their steamy scenes!! ;) I’m going to continue this series, but have some others that I am interested in reading first.
***A gifted copy was provided by the author for an honest review*** This is the final book in the series. Ashley lies to her mother and tells her that she needs to go see a friend and college and doesn’t want Ethan to take her and gets away by using a cab. She asks for plane fare back and asks if Ethan can sleep in her room this last night in her room. Her mom ok’d it and Ashley has one last night which gives Ashley the peace she needs to go through was what she is being blackmailed into doing…being brought back to her ex-boyfriend as blackmail her into becoming his sex toy for several days in order so her secret doesn’t get back to her family and friends and go public. She is trying to protect her step brother who is now the love of her life. Ashley gets away and gets to the airport. She makes it back to where she is supposed to meet Jake. She is heartbroken and afraid; knowing she has left the man she loves behind. Jake is there and grabs her roughly when Ethan is there suddenly. He saves her and makes a point to let the ex-boyfriend know if he shows back up, it will be the last mistake he will ever make. They get back home, prepared to tell the parents they are a couple and are together when the parents are off on another work related trip. Ethan is left a letter by his father which is one trying to mend the distance between them and one letter left to Ashley from her mother, letting her know her thoughts on things. After those letters, they get the courage up to call the ‘rents and tell them together. The chemistry flowed between them was stronger and was perfect. Both Ethan and Ashley confessed how long they have truly felt for each other. The book end beautifully and on a positive note. I loved how the book ended on such a perfect note. I loved how the evil ex-boyfriend got his beating although there is room for him to make a comeback down the road which , don’t know, could be more books which would be AWESOME. I would love to read more books about Ethan and Ashley. I just loved reading about this fantastic couple . Ms. Clark wrote about a couple who in the beginning looked to have a taboo relationship when really have been in love for a long time . This is an enduring relationship and I LOVED every second of this story. Would love to read more about this couple.
"I do love you, Princess," Ethan says. "I'm just scared I'm going to fuck it up. I'm not good at loving anyone."
Heartbreaking sentence, right? Probably one most people can relate to also.
So turns out I was wrong. There is more of Ethan and Ashley's story to be read...in season two. So that makes me happy.
What an epic conclusion to season 1 though!
And yay! Jake got his ass kicked just like I hoped for.
I think my overall favorite thing about this book was Ashley's mom.
I knew she knew what was going on while I was reading and it was just..so great. She was so chill about everything.
Ethan's dad on the other hand, I guess we will find out.
It's a happy ending to the first season like I hoped. Mostly happy ending anyway, they're ready to handle any shit that comes their way.
Ethan and Ashley are unstoppable.
Ethan is such a good guy too, and I really don't think he realizes it. His character makes me laugh and smile a lot and he has such an adoring and contagious personality. I love him.
Ashley is pretty amazing too. It's like they balance each other out. I am so happy things are turning out how they are and I am so ready to continue onto the second season
Ethan is on top of the covers while Ashley sleeps underneath. Her mom knocks and opens the door, checking that Ashley was okay after Jake’s antics that were so upsetting. Ethan and his stepmom talk a bit as they are all adjusting to being a family. Ethan isn’t used to so many emotions flitting around! Still asleep, Ashley throws her arm over Ethan’s chest and her mom giggles about him being a replacement for her teddy bear. She thanks him for taking good care of her and she closes the door completely as she leaves the room.
When her mom delivers soup to her room, because Ashley is supposed to be sick, Ashley pretends to wake up. She calls Ethan a jerk while she calls him a Princess, and her mom laughs at their banter. Before they were both full, they had eaten 3 bowls of soup! Now she needs to talk to her mom about flying out to see a girlfriend when she is really doing what Jake is forcing her to do as he blackmails her and threatens to reveal that she has been very non-sisterly with Ethan. She also asks if it would be ok for Ethan to sleep in her room with her tonight. Her mom teased her but said they were both adults and it should be fine. They kiss each other as they drift off to sleep, no lust or hurry, just loving to be with each other.
In the early morning, she wakes and sneaks quietly down to the kitchen. Her stomach is feeling sick again, but she can’t let her mom see that or she won’t let her make this trip. The flight is delayed and Ashley is frantic at what Jake will do if she doesn’t show up. Will he send the incriminating items to her parents? All he wants from her is sex she wouldn’t give him when they dated and if he has to blackmail her to get it, he will. He dragged her, bruising her wrist, and shoved her against a wall to tell her what he would do to her. And suddenly, he was pulled away from her and a huge fist hit him in the jaw, then he crumpled to the ground. Ethan gives Jake a warning threat and takes Ashley away. How is she going to explain herself now?
The Audible version was narrated by: CJ Bloom and James Cavenaugh. They continue to do a good job and bring life into the story as they take on the personalities of the main characters. This is certainly an emotional ride for the listener, but the story will carry you forward into wanting to keep hearing their story.
Ashley is stressing out about her ex (Jake) blackmailing her after he finds out about her and Ethan. She agrees to go to his place and be his sex toy for the weekend so he won't tell. She's nervous and doesn't want to, but she doesn't want to hurt her family if they find out about her and Ethan.
Ethan has other plans. Plans to rescue her from her asshole ex. And plans to keep her for himself -- for good.
Little do they know that Ashley's mom knows more than they realize. She's noticed how they felt about each other even before she married Ethan's dad. And they're surprised by how she handles the news.
This was actually a really sweet conclusion to Season One of Ethan and Ashley's story. Also the writing style was a little better too? Or maybe I'm just used to it now? I don't know, but I didn't find it as annoying.
Anyways, I loved how things turned out for them by the end of this. They are going to try for a full-out relationship. And they are seriously so cute. I love how we find out they both liked and had crushes on each other when they were younger (before their parents married each other about 3 years ago). So cute! And it really added to the believability when it comes to the depth of their feelings for each other.
I also gotta say I love Ashley's mom. She's extremely laid back and cool and reasonable. I loved how she handled the whole situation and even pointed out the fact that they have probably liked each other longer than her and Ethan's dad have been together. So reasonable. And you could tell she's just a good loving mom. I loved that.
Ethan can still be a bit of a tool. And Ashley is still kind of a bimbo (despite the claims that she's apparently book smart). But they're just...cute together. They just are. Cuddly and sweet and I love how Ashley brings Ethan out of his shell emotionally while he brings her out of her shell sexually. It's a good balance.
Overall this was great. Loved it. I am happy they have more books so we can see how things go with Ethan's dad and how they cope after going back to college and whatnot. But it was a good wrap up to the first part of their story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Ethan can be a little cocky and a bit of a jerk at times, but he's also a lot protective of his step sister. Ashley, his Princess, but also his step sister, has known him for the majority of her life. Their parents have only been married to each other for a few years, so it's not like they've lived under the same roof for long. It's not until they come home at the end of their first year of college to an empty house that they begin to explore their hidden feelings for each other.
I love how the author speaks to the reader from the voice of Ethan. He could give a care as to what the reader thinks of him, just like most young men his age. But he seems to want guidance regarding this new relationship he's embarking on because all he's ever done with girls is show them a good time in bed, then move onto the next in line. With Ashley, he's learning what it means to truly care about a girl and to fall in love. Ashley, in turn, has never been able to just be herself around boys. She's intelligent, book smart, but clueless about the opposite sex and when they're only wanting one thing from her. In this blossoming relationship, these two young people are learning not only about each other, but about how to communicate effectively in order to become true adults. Their love shines through to make this series an enjoyable experience to read.
Ashley has officially been rescued and the cat is out of the bag, kind of. Ashley and Ethan decide to make a go at a real relationship.
General note: Ethan is crass and vulgar. He has a predilection for using the f-bomb and talking dirty. If this offends you, this is probably not the series for you. This being said, he also has a sweetness to him he does well to hide but for with Ashley.
One thing that's really stood about about this series is how directly Ethan talks to the reader as if in a conversation and/or reacting to them. I'm not sure I exactly like this approach to writing, but it hasn't put me off either. Prepare to be sworn at repeatedly and told to mind your own f**king business. Ashley doesn't do this so much. She's technically talking to the reader as well, but it doesn't feel like it so much. It's not in your face like with Ethan. It's not so much her interacting with the reader as it is a narrative. I tend to like this approach more, but I love reading Ethan's chapters and finding out what's going on in his head.
You will find my original review of book 1 on Goodreads, including details on 📕what it is about, ❤️what I loved, ✅what you need to know and 🦺for the safety squad.
On this episode of Ethan-teaches-Ashley-aaaaaall-the-things: My favorite quotes:
Rule #6 – This is supposed to be fun. Understand?
Holy fucking fuck fuckity fuck stick hell on a shit basket.
This week's spicy lessons include: 🦸he saves her from her ex 💋he kisses her in public
This slice of life was entertaining and enjoyable even though it's more like an episode of a TV show than a book. A book to me has a distinct beginning, middle, and end while this book just stopped. The characters were interesting and you got to hear from both of them. Ashley made a decision that was dangerous and scary. Ethan rescued her. Moms are ALL knowing. Very sweet and cuddly but steamy. I loved this episode for sure.
I thought the story was interesting but I wanted more. The narrators did an excellent job, especially because of the way the story is written, it's as if the characters were talking directly to you as the listener (or reader). It's smutty and short but good. I recommend listening to this audiobook (or reading the ebook).
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The cliffhanger for part 5 left me reeling, so I had to read this one ASAP. And it did not disappoint. Well, except for the frustrating way that Ashley made the worst decision possible. There’s only one way to deal with that sort of blackmail otherwise they’ll hold it over your head forever. Luckily, Ethan is far smarter than he gives himself credit for. He’s also kinder. Honestly, the drama in this installment was way over the top. Of course, drama always makes it more entertaining and fun to read. By the end, things were pretty sweet and happy between them and it makes me wonder: with only one third of the whole story told so far, what other kinds of shenanigans are these crazy kids going to get into?
Mia writes a good book BUT in BOTH BOOKS 📚 #5 and #6 she wandered away from where SHE had previously brought US; WHICH was a beautiful SEXUAL and ROMANTIC experience for two young people. It became a story more based on JAKE, a dominant jerk, than on the two main characters. Took the story where IT DIDN'T NEED TO GO! NOT 👎 COOL 😎!!!
Anyway, #5 could be accepted BUT #6 went off the reservation! TOO MUCH DRAMA FOR A GOOD LIFE!
WILL probably try the 'SECOND SEASON' SERIES AND SEE WHERE MIA TAKES US (and hopes she gets back on track)! However, am going to return book #6. Sorry Mia.
This is a great series to get into as a quick getaway after reading your other books that run between 400 - 700 pages!! Especially if you need a quick break from a 15 book series consisting of at least 400 pages. I'm glad I came across this one, and I have fallen in love with Ethan who is slowly but surely redeeming himself from being a total absolute jerk off!! It's amazing that feelings that he has kept to himself since him and his little Princess (Ashley) met in 2nd grade. Honesty came out in the ending of this phase of the series and believe, you will understand why I'm stating at this point that Jake is a total douche!!!
This was an entertaining and enjoyable read. There are certain parts that were just a touch too cheesy for me, hence the rating versus it being higher, but I definitely enjoyed it and it held my attention the entire time. I was happy to see these two work through quite a few of their issues. The story definitely has some sexy bits but we get to see these two cement more of a relationship as they deal with things happening around them. It was an entertaining story. I would highly recommend reading the previous books as this is set more in a serialized format so they are all like episodes and really build off of one another. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Ashley goes to meet Jake, who's blackmailing her so he won't spill the secret about her and Ethan. They're both in for a huge shock at the airport. The big surprise of the book is Ashley's mother - nobody fools mom. I love Ethan's comments that are made to the listener (or reader). He doesn't care what anyone thinks about him; he's so confident in himself. And as book-smart as Ashley is, sometimes she's a bit lacking in the common sense department. They're so steaming hot together! CJ Bloom and James Cavenaugh continue to impress me with their narration. I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I'm obsessed with this series! It's something about the narrators and their comedic timing plus the fabulous writing of course. I wind up cracking up like a crazy person! It's sweet and swoony, funny and steamy!
I love how this is sort of the end on the first part of the story. Obviously their are a ton more but if it were a show it'd be the end of season 1lol.
Can't wait to devour more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Book 6 in Clark's Stepbrother with Benefits series. The stakes keep getting higher and higher as Ethan and Ashley's sexual relationship is threatened to be exposed. With the threat comes the realization that more is wanted than just a temp situation but Ethan is outside his comfort zone with feelings being involved and maybe a label of girlfriend too...
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review. *this review is based on the audio version of this read
Ethan and Ashley are getting closer. So close that her mom catches them in bed together one morning – Ethan had been taking care of Ashley while she was sick, so her mom overlooked it, but I think Mom knows something is up! I don’t think wither one wants to be without the other, but they only have a few more days of their week and of course, Ashley still has to go and deal with Jake (her blackmailing ex!) Will Ashley be able to go through with it? A twist is coming! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ashley still irritated me, but I love her and Ethan together. Ethan really is a great bbf. My biggest complaint is still too much inner monologue. I like the fourth wall stuff, but I still don't want to read more of their thoughts than what's actually happening. I'm still powering through to the next boom, even with my two complaints. They would usually be dealbreakers for me, but I really love these two as a couple
Ethan is hilarious. His thought process is a little all over the place sometimes but hilarious none the less. Ashley is kind of naive though. But I guess she is slowly learning the ways of the world. I am glad Ethan saved her from making a stupid decision by being James’ sex doll for 2 days. That just wasn’t a smart move. At all.
Had a super cute ending though. Curious to see what happens next.
Definitely not so much sex action in this book but that's cool as the story is hotting up in other ways, more romantic ways. Ethan is softening, a lot, where Ashley is concerned but he's still a bad boy at heart. Ashley's mum is brilliant and funny too. Each novella is better than the last and this one is no exception. Great story, great narration.
I received a free copy of this book via Cherrylily ARCs and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The finale book of season one was giving all the vibes! My boy Ethan is quickly becoming one of my favorite MMCs of all time. I was so worried this was going to turn into a miscommunication trope, but it wasn’t—it was touch her and die, which is my absolute favorite!!
I just loved everything about season one—watching them work through their feelings, the growth, the spice—and this book was the perfect wrap-up to it all. Now, onto Season Two!
I really like the tabooish stepbrother/ stepsister stories, so needless to say I really liked this one too. It's a series of short stories that males up one whole. So yeah, you have to but them all, preferably at once. Because if you're anything like me, you'll go through them really fast.
So, Episode 6 it's the ending of the series as we know it and it's a satisfying conclusion to the Taboo story. I kept calling the books 1 through 6 episodes instead of books due to how short each novella was, it felt more like chapters of a book , so it was a tongue and cheek type of thing. Story continues but them being dating openly.
In this installment, the step siblings realize that forging ahead and facing your worst fears is sometimes the best decision. They learn that regardless how coy they play it, those that love them the most are already aware of the general circumstances, just not the intimate details. I'm ready for Season 2!
For season one of the book set. I truly enjoy this one. Ashley's mum is awesome as. What every daughter would want in a mother... sweet, loving, caring, understanding, fun n a great sense of humour. I enjoyed the relationship brewing between Ethan and Ashley. A perfect match 4 one another. Can't wait 4more...
This is the sixth book in this series about step siblings falling in love. I am enjoying this love story and had many laughs. The sex scenes, the characters, and the storyline is awesome. I can't wait to get the next installment. This was a great reads.