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Black Jack Gentlemen #3
Shut Out
Librarian's Note: This is an alternate/new cover for ASIN B00F849D24
A submissive once, a submissive forever?
A man on the run from the only life he’s ever known, Brody Vaughn is poised to accept the Black Jack Gentleman’s newly vacant goalkeeper’s position. It’s a desperate move, but one he must take to regain his emotional equilibrium. Reeling from his Mistress’s rejection and on the ragged edge of a total breakdown, he arrives in Detroit. Numb with thinly veiled grief, he walks into the club’s front office completely unaware that an encounter with true destiny awaits him.
Sophie Harrison has seen it all--as Domme, sub, and victim. Now that her complicated circumstances have landed her as legal counsel for the expansion Black Jacks team, she holds herself aloof in body and spirit. Nothing and no one gets past her fiercely guarded walls. Until the day she looks up to greet the new goalie standing in her doorway, his raw combination of vulnerability and strength making her breathless.
Two people, horribly scarred by the excesses of the BDSM lifestyle and hiding from their true selves, meet across a desk over a simple contract. All bets are off.
A submissive once, a submissive forever?
A man on the run from the only life he’s ever known, Brody Vaughn is poised to accept the Black Jack Gentleman’s newly vacant goalkeeper’s position. It’s a desperate move, but one he must take to regain his emotional equilibrium. Reeling from his Mistress’s rejection and on the ragged edge of a total breakdown, he arrives in Detroit. Numb with thinly veiled grief, he walks into the club’s front office completely unaware that an encounter with true destiny awaits him.
Sophie Harrison has seen it all--as Domme, sub, and victim. Now that her complicated circumstances have landed her as legal counsel for the expansion Black Jacks team, she holds herself aloof in body and spirit. Nothing and no one gets past her fiercely guarded walls. Until the day she looks up to greet the new goalie standing in her doorway, his raw combination of vulnerability and strength making her breathless.
Two people, horribly scarred by the excesses of the BDSM lifestyle and hiding from their true selves, meet across a desk over a simple contract. All bets are off.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 15, 2013
5 people are currently reading
199 people want to read
About the author
Liz Crowe
100 books1,231 followersLiz Crowe is a Kentucky native and graduate of the University of Louisville living in South Carolina. She's spent her time as a three-continent expat trailing spouse, mom of three, real estate agent, brewery owner and bar manager, and is currently a digital marketing and fundraising consultant, in addition to being an award-winning author.
The Liz Crowe backlist has something for any reader seeking complex storylines with humor and complete casts of characters that will delight and linger in the imagination long after the book is finished.
Her favorite things to do when she’s not scrolling social media for cute animal videos is walk her dogs, cuddle her cats, and watch her favorite sports teams while scrolling social media for cute animal videos.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 26, 2015
My Rating:
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
“He touched a fingertip to her nose, and then walked to the elevator, leaving her to stew, steam, worry, fret, and freak out all in the space of about ten seconds.”
“With this incredible man – a near perfect combination of strong and weak, of commanding and vulnerable, with a mature self-awareness now after a few months with her.”
“Sam always greeted her that way, like a worried puppy, convinced it must be dumb luck that he got to see her again, as if she would disappear forever unless he acted ecstatic at every greeting.
“Every day he amazed her all over again, terrifying her and charming her by his existence.”
“She took a deep breath, relieved and destroyed all in one second.”
My Review:
While making my way through this literary temptation known as Shut Out, I felt conflicted. Even immediately after finishing, I remain a bit addled and unsure in how to review or rate it. The writing was stellar - as are all Ms. Crowe’s books - yet there were elements in the story that greatly disturbed me. At one point I huffed to my husband that I must be cursed as Ms. Crowe just happened to employ all my least favorite tropes and plot devices in this painful tale – one that I couldn’t seem to walk away from despite my sputtering. The story twisted me up and nearly broke me. I was uncomfortable, antsy, miserable, and so fearful that it was going to end badly that I even considered not finishing, but that really wasn’t an option as despite my agony… I could not stop reading. My eyes stung and I was actually trembling and quaking as I read… and I will confess, this happened more than once. Yet I could not put my kindle down. I muttered many invectives at and about my beloved Ms. Crowe, whom I suspect has either mastered some form of magic or has sold her soul to the devil, as she has me under her spell.
So while licking my figurative wounds from her battering of my sore coronary muscle, I decide Ms. Crowe did indeed redeem herself with the sustaining conclusion, and that she also managed to appease my distress by appropriately identifying the behaviors that were of concern to me as abuse rather than an acceptable practice. She tied up most of those niggling loose ends rather nicely. After a large glass of wine and undoubtedly breathing easier, it appears that I am back in fan-girl mode. But I still have to wonder if a soul has been bartered…
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
“He touched a fingertip to her nose, and then walked to the elevator, leaving her to stew, steam, worry, fret, and freak out all in the space of about ten seconds.”
“With this incredible man – a near perfect combination of strong and weak, of commanding and vulnerable, with a mature self-awareness now after a few months with her.”
“Sam always greeted her that way, like a worried puppy, convinced it must be dumb luck that he got to see her again, as if she would disappear forever unless he acted ecstatic at every greeting.
“Every day he amazed her all over again, terrifying her and charming her by his existence.”
“She took a deep breath, relieved and destroyed all in one second.”
My Review:
While making my way through this literary temptation known as Shut Out, I felt conflicted. Even immediately after finishing, I remain a bit addled and unsure in how to review or rate it. The writing was stellar - as are all Ms. Crowe’s books - yet there were elements in the story that greatly disturbed me. At one point I huffed to my husband that I must be cursed as Ms. Crowe just happened to employ all my least favorite tropes and plot devices in this painful tale – one that I couldn’t seem to walk away from despite my sputtering. The story twisted me up and nearly broke me. I was uncomfortable, antsy, miserable, and so fearful that it was going to end badly that I even considered not finishing, but that really wasn’t an option as despite my agony… I could not stop reading. My eyes stung and I was actually trembling and quaking as I read… and I will confess, this happened more than once. Yet I could not put my kindle down. I muttered many invectives at and about my beloved Ms. Crowe, whom I suspect has either mastered some form of magic or has sold her soul to the devil, as she has me under her spell.
So while licking my figurative wounds from her battering of my sore coronary muscle, I decide Ms. Crowe did indeed redeem herself with the sustaining conclusion, and that she also managed to appease my distress by appropriately identifying the behaviors that were of concern to me as abuse rather than an acceptable practice. She tied up most of those niggling loose ends rather nicely. After a large glass of wine and undoubtedly breathing easier, it appears that I am back in fan-girl mode. But I still have to wonder if a soul has been bartered…
June 29, 2015
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
Shut Out is the third in the Black Jack Gentlemen's series. The earlier books in this series do not need to be read to enjoy this one. Other characters make appearances but even with that the story lines are not tied together.
Brody Vaughn is signing as the new goalie for the Black Jacks. He's a man with baggage. He's just gotten out of a difficult relationship. His rejection by his Mistress has him reeling. When he walks into the legal council's office, to finish signing the paperwork for the Black Jack's he's stunned by Sophia. She tells herself she is a Mistress. She's been the submissive and felt victimized for it.One look at Brody and the walls she has built so tightly are slowing breaking. Can these two be what each other needs? Will being together bring out their "true" selves?
As a whole this wasn't one of my favorite in the series. I was drawn in by the submissive male and was a little disappointed in the path that the story line took. The story line seemed a little jumpy to me. I felt at times that I missed reading a section, that plot was missing. Overall it wasn't a bad read, I enjoyed it but it wasn't my favorite.
Shut Out is the third in the Black Jack Gentlemen's series. The earlier books in this series do not need to be read to enjoy this one. Other characters make appearances but even with that the story lines are not tied together.
Brody Vaughn is signing as the new goalie for the Black Jacks. He's a man with baggage. He's just gotten out of a difficult relationship. His rejection by his Mistress has him reeling. When he walks into the legal council's office, to finish signing the paperwork for the Black Jack's he's stunned by Sophia. She tells herself she is a Mistress. She's been the submissive and felt victimized for it.One look at Brody and the walls she has built so tightly are slowing breaking. Can these two be what each other needs? Will being together bring out their "true" selves?
As a whole this wasn't one of my favorite in the series. I was drawn in by the submissive male and was a little disappointed in the path that the story line took. The story line seemed a little jumpy to me. I felt at times that I missed reading a section, that plot was missing. Overall it wasn't a bad read, I enjoyed it but it wasn't my favorite.
June 22, 2015
3 Stars
This started out being my favorite book in this series. I liked the characters and where it seemed they were headed. Then everything changed, quite literally. Domme went to sub and sub went to Dom and so many other things that left my head in a spin.
I have to say that it is hard to follow each book in this series because the plot seems to get pulled in so many directions. I'd have liked to have seen the BDSM aspect played out more properly with an athlete rather than the indecisive choices the characters made.
Not to mention that this is the third book where there was no protection used and voila an unexpected child in the mix (surprised that there wasn't more).
While overall, I found that I liked half the book, there are a lot of similarities between all the books in the series, mainly being that the author falls into a bit of insta love, unexpected child and then a random situation just to throw a wrench into the mix.
I want to love these characters it's like they are right there on the edge and the writer has the ability to keep me interested even though I might roll my eyes or sigh in utter disbelief at times. I keep reading in the hopes that we finally get that leap over the line into wonderful.
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
This started out being my favorite book in this series. I liked the characters and where it seemed they were headed. Then everything changed, quite literally. Domme went to sub and sub went to Dom and so many other things that left my head in a spin.
I have to say that it is hard to follow each book in this series because the plot seems to get pulled in so many directions. I'd have liked to have seen the BDSM aspect played out more properly with an athlete rather than the indecisive choices the characters made.
Not to mention that this is the third book where there was no protection used and voila an unexpected child in the mix (surprised that there wasn't more).
While overall, I found that I liked half the book, there are a lot of similarities between all the books in the series, mainly being that the author falls into a bit of insta love, unexpected child and then a random situation just to throw a wrench into the mix.
I want to love these characters it's like they are right there on the edge and the writer has the ability to keep me interested even though I might roll my eyes or sigh in utter disbelief at times. I keep reading in the hopes that we finally get that leap over the line into wonderful.
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
June 28, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads
I've enjoyed all of the series so far, but this is possibly my favourite. These are all hot, emotional reads, but both Sophie and Brody's stories are heartbreakingly good.
The impact of their pasts, the present and one fateful fall is staggering - and makes for gripping reading. But do keep reading, because as in all the best romance novels, love does find a way - maybe an unexpected manner, but well worth the drama in between.
I am looking forward to the next in the series - thank you Ms Crowe for a wonderful series, definitely destined to be gold starred in my re-read series collection.
I've enjoyed all of the series so far, but this is possibly my favourite. These are all hot, emotional reads, but both Sophie and Brody's stories are heartbreakingly good.
The impact of their pasts, the present and one fateful fall is staggering - and makes for gripping reading. But do keep reading, because as in all the best romance novels, love does find a way - maybe an unexpected manner, but well worth the drama in between.
I am looking forward to the next in the series - thank you Ms Crowe for a wonderful series, definitely destined to be gold starred in my re-read series collection.
July 7, 2015
Another goal for The Black Jack Gentlemen series. Sophie and Brody are just scrumptious together, but they also have issues in their pasts that prove to be challenging to get over so they can move forward.
I loved that this installment didn't involve two players, as Sophie works in the Black Jacks front office, it was a different perspective that I totally loved.
I loved that this installment didn't involve two players, as Sophie works in the Black Jacks front office, it was a different perspective that I totally loved.
September 19, 2013
Read this review and others at MIDWEST GALLEY GIRL.
http://midwestgalleygirl.wordpress.co...
![Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000039_00071]](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/hostedimages/1380428982i/858935._SY540_.jpg)
The Beautiful Game keeps trying to drag me in. My friends and co-workers talk of it incessantly. Students past and present play it enthusiastically. Even my 5-year-old daughter wants to play (Did I mention she uses a wheelchair? Adaptive soccer? Isn't that polo?). I digress...
Now Liz Crowe, one of my favorite authors, is three-books-deep into a series set in and around a professional soccer team. My resistance is being worn down...slowly.
For now, let me just say this. Despite my lukewarm feelings for soccer, this book had me at "Hello!". It is far from lukewarm. It's warm and delicious and luscious. Sometimes hot. Sometimes hotter. At its heart, its a love story that's anything but ordinary.
Sophie was introduced to Liz's readers briefly in MUTUAL RELEASE, a standalone novel nestled in the epic STEWART REALTY series. She's hardly a sympathetic character in MUTUAL RELEASE, but in typical Liz Crowe style, to know Sophie is to find room for her in your heart. Sophie is tough as nails on the outside and generally not a wealth of emotion inside. Her inner dialogue is fantastically developed. I had so much empathy for Sophie by the 4th chapter I felt like I was talking myself in circles trying to explain her to the other characters (as if they might hear me).
Sophie on her parents:
Sophie's had a rough run. A lost love. An abusive relationship she barely escaped. She's rebuilding her life as the "legal lady" for Detroit's Black Jack Gentlemen professional soccer team. The day Brody Vaughn, new goalie, comes to her office, she knows he's not just some punk kid soccer player.
Brody is just delectable in his innocence and surface-level pain. A world-class soccer player, he's lived through an abusive relationship that masqueraded as a BDSM one. Brody barely knows which way is up emotionally until his auspicious first encounter with Sophie. He struggles through any authentic relationship, having endured years of foster homes and a lack of unconditional love.
Could two people be more diametrically opposed? Yes, dear reader, opposites attract (with sparks) in SHUT OUT.
Crowe, per usual, hits just the right note with the BDSM undertones in SHUT OUT. No glorification of the lifestyle. No porn. No fantasy. Just delicious realism and an epilogue that had my toes curling for hours.
5 Stars
http://midwestgalleygirl.wordpress.co...
![Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000039_00071]](http://midwestgalleygirl.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/lc_shut-out_ecover.jpg)
The Beautiful Game keeps trying to drag me in. My friends and co-workers talk of it incessantly. Students past and present play it enthusiastically. Even my 5-year-old daughter wants to play (Did I mention she uses a wheelchair? Adaptive soccer? Isn't that polo?). I digress...
Now Liz Crowe, one of my favorite authors, is three-books-deep into a series set in and around a professional soccer team. My resistance is being worn down...slowly.
For now, let me just say this. Despite my lukewarm feelings for soccer, this book had me at "Hello!". It is far from lukewarm. It's warm and delicious and luscious. Sometimes hot. Sometimes hotter. At its heart, its a love story that's anything but ordinary.
A submissive once, a submissive forever?
A man on the run from the only life he’s ever known, Brody Vaughn is poised to accept the Black Jack Gentleman’s newly vacant goalkeeper’s position. It’s a desperate move, but one he must take to regain his emotional equilibrium. Reeling from his Mistress’s rejection and on the ragged edge of a total breakdown, he arrives in Detroit. Numb with thinly veiled grief, he walks into the club’s front office completely unaware that an encounter with true destiny awaits him.
Sophie Harrison has seen it all--as Domme, sub, and victim. Now that her complicated circumstances have landed her as legal counsel for the expansion Black Jacks team, she holds herself aloof in body and spirit. Nothing and no one gets past her fiercely guarded walls. Until the day she looks up to greet the new goalie standing in her doorway, his raw combination of vulnerability and strength making her breathless.
Two people, horribly scarred by the excesses of the BDSM lifestyle and hiding from their true selves, meet across a desk over a simple contract. All bets are off.
Sophie was introduced to Liz's readers briefly in MUTUAL RELEASE, a standalone novel nestled in the epic STEWART REALTY series. She's hardly a sympathetic character in MUTUAL RELEASE, but in typical Liz Crowe style, to know Sophie is to find room for her in your heart. Sophie is tough as nails on the outside and generally not a wealth of emotion inside. Her inner dialogue is fantastically developed. I had so much empathy for Sophie by the 4th chapter I felt like I was talking myself in circles trying to explain her to the other characters (as if they might hear me).
Sophie on her parents:
She’d come from a background of privilege. Had a fully functional and supportive family. Her parents had loved her, their Sophie, the beautiful, desired, only child of a pair of college professors mired somewhat in their own importance. Their one flaw, perhaps, over-involvement in her life from her conception. They were taken from her at once, in an auto accident, while she finished law school in Ann Arbor. She missed them, but in a purely decorative way.
She’d never been close to anyone, not her annoying parents, or her many friends in high school and college. No one had affected her, made an impact on her, as she worked toward her goal— her own law firm, her own money, and living the way she wanted.
Sophie's had a rough run. A lost love. An abusive relationship she barely escaped. She's rebuilding her life as the "legal lady" for Detroit's Black Jack Gentlemen professional soccer team. The day Brody Vaughn, new goalie, comes to her office, she knows he's not just some punk kid soccer player.
His physical presence, not that different than all the others who’d paraded through there in the last few days, compelled her in ways she refused to acknowledge. He stood nearly six-foot-eight, with broad shoulders, a narrow waist, long, strong legs….
He cleared his throat. And the traitorous flush crept up her neck to her face again. His angular features at that moment were set, and bored, perhaps a touch amused at her obvious discomfort. She narrowed her gaze. Why hadn’t she noticed it before? Her pulse fluttered as she put a hand to her throat. As if reading her mind, Brody Vaughn lifted his chin slightly, and she got a good look at the black chain imprinted at the base of his neck.
A dark, circular pattern of interlocking, heavy loops was imprinted on deeply tanned flesh. He smiled again, slow moving like his drawl, and touched it once, then turned, giving her a breathtaking rear view of the chain as he walked toward the office door. The man wore a collar, a permanent one, inked on his skin. But the vibes he threw her proclaimed one thing loud and clear— the person who’d bestowed the collar no longer had a say about him at all.
Brody is just delectable in his innocence and surface-level pain. A world-class soccer player, he's lived through an abusive relationship that masqueraded as a BDSM one. Brody barely knows which way is up emotionally until his auspicious first encounter with Sophie. He struggles through any authentic relationship, having endured years of foster homes and a lack of unconditional love.
Could two people be more diametrically opposed? Yes, dear reader, opposites attract (with sparks) in SHUT OUT.
Crowe, per usual, hits just the right note with the BDSM undertones in SHUT OUT. No glorification of the lifestyle. No porn. No fantasy. Just delicious realism and an epilogue that had my toes curling for hours.
5 Stars
January 27, 2023
Another unique & compelling story from this author.
After reading the teaser for Shut Out at the end of the second book in the Black Jack Gentlemen series (Red Card), I was eagerly awaiting this book - and it didn't disappoint!
Set in the world of the Black Jack Gentlemen's soccer team, the story is in two parts - a before and after certain tragic events affecting the main characters.
Sophie is the organisation's lawyer and Brody the team's new goalie.
We have an older woman\younger man , both damaged psychologically and physically who despite everything life throws at them, manage to find their way to a HEA. How they get there is a compelling read (there are some BDSM situations, but they lend to the story rather than overpower it).
Characters from previous books in the series appear in this story. While Shut Out can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the previous books first, just to have a better connection with the secondary characters.
I can't wait for the next book in this series!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After reading the teaser for Shut Out at the end of the second book in the Black Jack Gentlemen series (Red Card), I was eagerly awaiting this book - and it didn't disappoint!
Set in the world of the Black Jack Gentlemen's soccer team, the story is in two parts - a before and after certain tragic events affecting the main characters.
Sophie is the organisation's lawyer and Brody the team's new goalie.
We have an older woman\younger man , both damaged psychologically and physically who despite everything life throws at them, manage to find their way to a HEA. How they get there is a compelling read (there are some BDSM situations, but they lend to the story rather than overpower it).
Characters from previous books in the series appear in this story. While Shut Out can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the previous books first, just to have a better connection with the secondary characters.
I can't wait for the next book in this series!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 10, 2023
So far, all of the "BJ" books have had elements of tragedy and tears, and this has them in spades. (get it? Black Jack?) These two beautiful people have been so damaged in the past that it is a miracle they are still functioning at all. Brody is a soccer goalie who joins the team where Sophie is the lawyer. They both hold terrible secrets of a sensual/abusive nature, and their lives become entangled. They are happy together until Part I of the book is over. Part II is heartrending. Brody dissociates, and Sophie perseveres at her job and at home. The soccer team is a mess. Sophie is a mess since he doesn't remember her at all. The reason for 5 stars is that Liz Crowe writes a believable story with a plot that sounds like a soap opera. It is not. She shows how people can be created with words and live in their minds. We love them and want them to heal and be together. Because it is a romance, we finally get the happy ending, but not without struggle and tears.
I received an ARC from the author and left this review voluntarily.
I received an ARC from the author and left this review voluntarily.
April 15, 2018
Thanks Netgalley for a copy to read and review.
Love this series but this book was a little hard for me. There is so much prior history for both Brody and Sophie that it took a lot of sifting through BS before we get the full picture. I'm not sure what could have made it easier but Brody being a submissive was hard for me. I like for the guy to be the dominant which was a switch in this book. Still the book was hot and Brody was Hawt! Still the author was amazing but my connection to the book failed me. Three stars of entertainment! Thanks for allowing me a copy to read and review.
Love this series but this book was a little hard for me. There is so much prior history for both Brody and Sophie that it took a lot of sifting through BS before we get the full picture. I'm not sure what could have made it easier but Brody being a submissive was hard for me. I like for the guy to be the dominant which was a switch in this book. Still the book was hot and Brody was Hawt! Still the author was amazing but my connection to the book failed me. Three stars of entertainment! Thanks for allowing me a copy to read and review.
May 5, 2014
5 Crown Stars
Book 3 in the Black Jack Gentleman Series. This book, once again is very different to the previous 2. Different characters and story based around the same football team, this can very much be read as a standalone.
This Is Brody Vaugn and Sophie Harrison's story. Brody, a Goalkeeper arrives in Detroit for the 2 seasons old Black Jack Gentleman. It's a fresh start for Brody, in an emotional void following rejection from his Mistress; Brody is determined to make a new life for himself free from the pain of his past.
Sophie Harrison is the head of the team's legal department. For anyone who has read Liz's book Mutual Release, you will remember Sophie as a hard nosed and aloof woman. Having recovered from a destructive and complicated relationship, Sophie's trying to put her life back together and has erected walls to ensure she gets there unscathed.
What happens when she comes face to face with Brody? will they be able to heal each others pain? and can they trust each other enough to make a life together?
This is a really interesting story that dips into the world of BDSM. Brody is a very damaged soul. Vunerable yet strong, he has been left emotional stunted by a woman he trusted; his former Domme and college professor. For our lovely Brody is a submissive; he craves domination and struggles without it in his life. He is such a beautiful character and you will fall in love with him straight away. Sophie is a older woman, and is very set in her ways and the goals she has set herself. Sophie for me was a surprise. I have read Mutual Release (in which she makes a fairly brief appearance)and I went into it with very specific ideas about her character... I was wrong. Sophie has been through a lot in the last few years. Left to die on the side of the road and left in thousands of $ debt, she is struggling to rebuild her life. To supplement her day job she works as Mistress Katrina, a for hire Domme.
This is a beautiful story about 2 people who have for want of a better word been abused in the name of BDSM. It a story that shows you that there is a fine line between consensual play and brainwashing control. They help each other and learn to trust again; but in true Liz Crowe style life is never smooth and when they have everything they need and desire, life may just throw them the biggest challenge of all.
Another brilliant and very different story in this fantastic series. It is no secret that I am a huge Liz Crowe fan, and this book is a good example of why. I am all about love, emotion and angst and this book has it in spades... I struggled to put it down and just had to know what was going to happen next. I loved the crossover of a bit part character from another of her books; it proves that brief characters that you meet in stories aren't always what they seem and she has spun Sophie's character so well
Another highly recommended real, I just have 1 question Liz - will we get a book 4?
Book 3 in the Black Jack Gentleman Series. This book, once again is very different to the previous 2. Different characters and story based around the same football team, this can very much be read as a standalone.
This Is Brody Vaugn and Sophie Harrison's story. Brody, a Goalkeeper arrives in Detroit for the 2 seasons old Black Jack Gentleman. It's a fresh start for Brody, in an emotional void following rejection from his Mistress; Brody is determined to make a new life for himself free from the pain of his past.
Sophie Harrison is the head of the team's legal department. For anyone who has read Liz's book Mutual Release, you will remember Sophie as a hard nosed and aloof woman. Having recovered from a destructive and complicated relationship, Sophie's trying to put her life back together and has erected walls to ensure she gets there unscathed.
What happens when she comes face to face with Brody? will they be able to heal each others pain? and can they trust each other enough to make a life together?
This is a really interesting story that dips into the world of BDSM. Brody is a very damaged soul. Vunerable yet strong, he has been left emotional stunted by a woman he trusted; his former Domme and college professor. For our lovely Brody is a submissive; he craves domination and struggles without it in his life. He is such a beautiful character and you will fall in love with him straight away. Sophie is a older woman, and is very set in her ways and the goals she has set herself. Sophie for me was a surprise. I have read Mutual Release (in which she makes a fairly brief appearance)and I went into it with very specific ideas about her character... I was wrong. Sophie has been through a lot in the last few years. Left to die on the side of the road and left in thousands of $ debt, she is struggling to rebuild her life. To supplement her day job she works as Mistress Katrina, a for hire Domme.
This is a beautiful story about 2 people who have for want of a better word been abused in the name of BDSM. It a story that shows you that there is a fine line between consensual play and brainwashing control. They help each other and learn to trust again; but in true Liz Crowe style life is never smooth and when they have everything they need and desire, life may just throw them the biggest challenge of all.
Another brilliant and very different story in this fantastic series. It is no secret that I am a huge Liz Crowe fan, and this book is a good example of why. I am all about love, emotion and angst and this book has it in spades... I struggled to put it down and just had to know what was going to happen next. I loved the crossover of a bit part character from another of her books; it proves that brief characters that you meet in stories aren't always what they seem and she has spun Sophie's character so well
Another highly recommended real, I just have 1 question Liz - will we get a book 4?
September 12, 2015
So I really felt for Brody. What he thought was love and the way a relationship should be really not only messed him up but was also abusive. He losses all sense of self and confidence in everything but his soccer abilities. Sophie is in BDSM to help her build up her savings and to get out of debt. She doesn’ t really have a desire for it any more. It gives her control over herself and situations.
when Brody can’t handle the feeling of being off he accidentally ends up in Sophie’s playroom. She is who he feels will bring back his equilibrium and make him feel right again. Neither knew they would see each other again. neither knew they worked together. Her as a lawyer and him as the goalie for the team she is a lawyer for.
As they get to know one another there is heat and attraction seen. Neither wishes to act on it. Both are vulnerable and scarred from their pasts. Both have been on the bad and abusive side of what the BDSM lifestyle is. Sophie knows the difference though and Brody doesn’t . This brings him down a very bad spiral that almost costs him his future. His future with Sophie.
Each are great characters. Both scarred by their past and trying to find who they really are. Both needing to see where the boundaries are and what is good and bad for them. One needs to see the good because all he was given was the abusive side of romance. The other needs to see the vulnerability in the other and help them-let go of the fear of being hurt so that you can help.
A story of love and fear. Of finding the strength to walk away but still need help to see what is true and real and what is just abusive and selfish. To find someone to love them unconditionally and make them whole. Who helps them find themselves and see the beauty of love and happiness. To know they deserve better and with each other can have it. A wonderful story that is just the right pace to keep you interested and with enough emotional ups and downs to keep you wanting to see them come out on top.
when Brody can’t handle the feeling of being off he accidentally ends up in Sophie’s playroom. She is who he feels will bring back his equilibrium and make him feel right again. Neither knew they would see each other again. neither knew they worked together. Her as a lawyer and him as the goalie for the team she is a lawyer for.
As they get to know one another there is heat and attraction seen. Neither wishes to act on it. Both are vulnerable and scarred from their pasts. Both have been on the bad and abusive side of what the BDSM lifestyle is. Sophie knows the difference though and Brody doesn’t . This brings him down a very bad spiral that almost costs him his future. His future with Sophie.
Each are great characters. Both scarred by their past and trying to find who they really are. Both needing to see where the boundaries are and what is good and bad for them. One needs to see the good because all he was given was the abusive side of romance. The other needs to see the vulnerability in the other and help them-let go of the fear of being hurt so that you can help.
A story of love and fear. Of finding the strength to walk away but still need help to see what is true and real and what is just abusive and selfish. To find someone to love them unconditionally and make them whole. Who helps them find themselves and see the beauty of love and happiness. To know they deserve better and with each other can have it. A wonderful story that is just the right pace to keep you interested and with enough emotional ups and downs to keep you wanting to see them come out on top.
July 16, 2015
Shut Out is another well written story by Liz Crowe. I have read about a dozen of her stories, including all of the Stewart Realty series, and enjoy her writing style. Ms. Crowe writes about real life and each story is compelling.
The main characters are Brody Vaughn, the new goalie, and Sophie Harrison, the attorney for the soccer team. Sophie has a connection to characters in the Stewart Realty series, namely Jack Gordon and Evan Williams. Both Sophie and Brody have some heartbreaking events in their past and are wary when they meet. Brody is several years younger than Sophie but once they manage to spend time together, they adjust their thoughts on what they think they should be, and begin to develop a relationship that works for them. Then there are 2 major events that happen and the story moves forward about 3 years. I was a little thrown off by this initially but once I began reading the second part, it was easy to see why the passing years were addressed this way.
This is the 3rd book in the Black Jack Gentlemen soccer series but could be read as a standalone book. But for me, just as in the Stewart Realty series, which just ended with the publication of ‘Good Faith’, I feel that I enjoy the stories more when knowing the history of the various characters. This is a very dramatic story and definitely not lighthearted. I cried in a couple of places and wasn’t sure whether there would be a HEA. Ms. Crowe gives us what happens after we think there should be a HEA and even though the ending wasn’t what I initially thought it should be, it turned out even better. I like sweet, lighthearted fairytale stories at times, but I really enjoy reading more true life with all of the ups, downs, love, anger, loss, etc., that we all deal with on a daily basis. I highly recommend this story and all of Ms. Crowe’s books.
The main characters are Brody Vaughn, the new goalie, and Sophie Harrison, the attorney for the soccer team. Sophie has a connection to characters in the Stewart Realty series, namely Jack Gordon and Evan Williams. Both Sophie and Brody have some heartbreaking events in their past and are wary when they meet. Brody is several years younger than Sophie but once they manage to spend time together, they adjust their thoughts on what they think they should be, and begin to develop a relationship that works for them. Then there are 2 major events that happen and the story moves forward about 3 years. I was a little thrown off by this initially but once I began reading the second part, it was easy to see why the passing years were addressed this way.
This is the 3rd book in the Black Jack Gentlemen soccer series but could be read as a standalone book. But for me, just as in the Stewart Realty series, which just ended with the publication of ‘Good Faith’, I feel that I enjoy the stories more when knowing the history of the various characters. This is a very dramatic story and definitely not lighthearted. I cried in a couple of places and wasn’t sure whether there would be a HEA. Ms. Crowe gives us what happens after we think there should be a HEA and even though the ending wasn’t what I initially thought it should be, it turned out even better. I like sweet, lighthearted fairytale stories at times, but I really enjoy reading more true life with all of the ups, downs, love, anger, loss, etc., that we all deal with on a daily basis. I highly recommend this story and all of Ms. Crowe’s books.
June 22, 2015
I was totally enticed by the male submissive tagline, and while Brody was a submissive at one time, he sort of isn't too. I've read a book where a male is a submissive and I actually loved that plotline, so I was all into this one. However, that's not what this book is really about and I was a little bummed about that.
Similarly, while Sophie pegged as a Mistress, she's really not either. I spent a good portion of the book trying to figure out how Sophie became a Mistress and where she got her training, because the only reference we have to Sophie in the BDSM lifestyle was when she was with her asshole ex, who (just like Brody's ex) was a faux Dom and actually an abuser. Sophie was a submissive with him, and not saying you can't switch, but her switch didn't feel genuine.
So, the lines blurred in his relationship with Sophie, which was a little confusing but mostly ok, especially when the demanding kisses led to so much MORE -- Brody was occasionally dominant, as was Sophie, and more or less they became equals. They shared their terrible pasts, they worked to get through it, and they fought their way together.
I was cheering - excited - loving their journey....and then this book took a turn into holy-shit-what-the-fuck-just-happened town, which had me grimacing a bit and clawing at my kindle. I'm all for twists and turns in a story, but this came out of left field (*cough*cough*) and I really honestly hated the twist. It seemed so improbable to me that the truth wouldn't come out for so long...and ahhh, it was pretty painful to read at that point.
So, the first half of the story I loved - the second half I didn't. So, overall it balanced out to an 'I liked it, even with all of the crazy'. It gets a 2.75 to 3 from me.
[I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review]
September 29, 2013
Shut Out
By Liz Crowe
Shut Out is another dramatic read. I couldn’t put it down and read it this morning while snuggling in bed! Liz writes romance for real life and this story is a perfect fit for that tag line. Brody and Sophie are flawed. They have baggage that draws them together, just like the rest of us. They want to be loved and needed. They want to be good at what they do and have doubts, fears and scars. Their past issues sometimes gets in the way of their own happiness. Stubborn and determined are only two words to describe both of them.
But Liz has a twist up her sleeve. Just when you think you know how things go, a plot twist sends you reeling and as you right yourself, you get to see deeper into the characters’ hearts. Readers will think they know this story but Liz shows you that life and love isn’t easy. It’s messy but can be wondrous at the same time. Liz also touches on the hot sports topic of head injuries. Even at my school, we had to be trained to recognize and be cautious with any head bump. I don’t want to give away any spoilers so I can’t share more about the storyline, other than to say it will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Shut Out is the third book in the Black Jack Gentlemen series and doesn’t have to be read in order to enjoy this story. Many of the characters from the other Black Jack books show up and even Jack Gordon (Stewart Realty Series) makes an appearance. Certainly fans of Liz Crowe’s books will want to read this book, but if you love a book that has meat and a deep storyline with amazing characters, this book is for you!
By Liz Crowe
Shut Out is another dramatic read. I couldn’t put it down and read it this morning while snuggling in bed! Liz writes romance for real life and this story is a perfect fit for that tag line. Brody and Sophie are flawed. They have baggage that draws them together, just like the rest of us. They want to be loved and needed. They want to be good at what they do and have doubts, fears and scars. Their past issues sometimes gets in the way of their own happiness. Stubborn and determined are only two words to describe both of them.
But Liz has a twist up her sleeve. Just when you think you know how things go, a plot twist sends you reeling and as you right yourself, you get to see deeper into the characters’ hearts. Readers will think they know this story but Liz shows you that life and love isn’t easy. It’s messy but can be wondrous at the same time. Liz also touches on the hot sports topic of head injuries. Even at my school, we had to be trained to recognize and be cautious with any head bump. I don’t want to give away any spoilers so I can’t share more about the storyline, other than to say it will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Shut Out is the third book in the Black Jack Gentlemen series and doesn’t have to be read in order to enjoy this story. Many of the characters from the other Black Jack books show up and even Jack Gordon (Stewart Realty Series) makes an appearance. Certainly fans of Liz Crowe’s books will want to read this book, but if you love a book that has meat and a deep storyline with amazing characters, this book is for you!
June 28, 2015
The third book in The Black Jack Gentlemen series, Shut Out, was a real surprise for me, it wasn't what I was expecting at all. Based on the other books in the series I knew it was going to be a good book, but it far exceeded good. I was expecting a femdom BDSM novel, but that's not really what this book was for me. Yes the heroine is a professional dominatrix, and there is some BDSM in this book, but that was not at the heart of this story. For me is is a story of two individuals who have more than their fair share of baggage from past D/s relationships. It is about heartbreak and betrayal, but most of all it is about love.
Sophie is the Black Jack Gentlemen's legal adviser and Brody is the team's new goalkeeper. They meet when Brody signs his new contract, and from that moment on there is a real connection between them. There are some twists and turns in this book that I really wasn't expecting. Just when you think you know where their relationship is taking them - BAM! - Ms Crowe puts a big roadblock in their path.
I really liked Sophie, she is a strong woman who has overcome so much. I really found myself rooting for her and wanting things to go right for her. Brody was great too, he was really sweet most of the time. There were some hot moments in this book, the chemistry between them is sizzling. Shut Out is another great addition to a fantastic series. I love how all of the books are connected but have such different storylines. Shut Out definitely gets five stars.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
Sophie is the Black Jack Gentlemen's legal adviser and Brody is the team's new goalkeeper. They meet when Brody signs his new contract, and from that moment on there is a real connection between them. There are some twists and turns in this book that I really wasn't expecting. Just when you think you know where their relationship is taking them - BAM! - Ms Crowe puts a big roadblock in their path.
I really liked Sophie, she is a strong woman who has overcome so much. I really found myself rooting for her and wanting things to go right for her. Brody was great too, he was really sweet most of the time. There were some hot moments in this book, the chemistry between them is sizzling. Shut Out is another great addition to a fantastic series. I love how all of the books are connected but have such different storylines. Shut Out definitely gets five stars.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
June 12, 2015
I've not read any of the other books in this series, this was a freebie and Liz Crowe books are kind of hit and miss for me. I did recognize a few of the supporting characters from another series (the realty one).
First, and I know this is nitpicky, but the fact that Brody was 6'8" was distracting. Every time Sophie or Amber would do something like kiss him I would wonder if she had a stool to stand on. Even with heels, most women are going to be close to a foot shorter than him.
Part one of the book was great. But in typical Liz Crowe fashion, everything must get blown to smithereens and part two was all about the majorly tortuous fuckups that have to happen before things can possibly be set to rights.
I liked (and alternately felt sorry for) Brody in part one. On paper, he and Sophie didn't make much sense, but they were good for each other. Part two Brody was just so unlikable that I quickly lost any patience with him that I had. And (of course) he gets to go around banging half of Detroit while Sophie practically lives like a nun.
Amber was disgusting, but a little too villainous. Brody's reasons for being with her, considering how much he admitted to despising her, didn't make a lot of sense.
Things do get partly resolved in the last chapter, but it seemed almost too quick. I wanted more of the "working things out" stuff, and less of Brody's lost years.
First, and I know this is nitpicky, but the fact that Brody was 6'8" was distracting. Every time Sophie or Amber would do something like kiss him I would wonder if she had a stool to stand on. Even with heels, most women are going to be close to a foot shorter than him.
Part one of the book was great. But in typical Liz Crowe fashion, everything must get blown to smithereens and part two was all about the majorly tortuous fuckups that have to happen before things can possibly be set to rights.
I liked (and alternately felt sorry for) Brody in part one. On paper, he and Sophie didn't make much sense, but they were good for each other. Part two Brody was just so unlikable that I quickly lost any patience with him that I had. And (of course) he gets to go around banging half of Detroit while Sophie practically lives like a nun.
Amber was disgusting, but a little too villainous. Brody's reasons for being with her, considering how much he admitted to despising her, didn't make a lot of sense.
Things do get partly resolved in the last chapter, but it seemed almost too quick. I wanted more of the "working things out" stuff, and less of Brody's lost years.
June 24, 2015
Storyline: 4
Angst: 5
Tissue: 2
Value: 5
Panty Scorching: 4
Over All Rating: 4 Stars
Netgalley eARc reviewed by Robin
She did it again! Brody is the new goalie recruited for the Black Jacks. Sophie is the lady in charge of legal affairs for the team. What could they have in common? They’ve both been involved in BDSM. I liked this little twist and wanted to follow wherever this story was going to take me.
“The man wore a collar, a permanent one, inked on his skin. But the vibes he threw her proclaimed one thing loud and clear— the person who’d bestowed the collar no longer had a say about him at all.
Her mind swooped, whirled, and doubled around on itself, picturing him— Brody, the man— at her knees, bound, and awaiting her command. She shivered and jumped when her assistant appeared at the door. Brody had left, trailing that mysterious aura of vulnerability and strength behind him.”
I loved that these were two broken people who were helping each other heal. Of course, Liz Crowe had me crying again **throws kindle** This story is very emotional AGAIN, and I loved all of the characters although they don’t make the same decisions I would make in their shoes. The situation they were in obviously was a tragic one.
I definitely would recommend reading Shut Out. It’s angsty and leaves you biting your nails but the ending makes the entire story worth it. Give it a try.
Angst: 5
Tissue: 2
Value: 5
Panty Scorching: 4
Over All Rating: 4 Stars
Netgalley eARc reviewed by Robin
She did it again! Brody is the new goalie recruited for the Black Jacks. Sophie is the lady in charge of legal affairs for the team. What could they have in common? They’ve both been involved in BDSM. I liked this little twist and wanted to follow wherever this story was going to take me.
“The man wore a collar, a permanent one, inked on his skin. But the vibes he threw her proclaimed one thing loud and clear— the person who’d bestowed the collar no longer had a say about him at all.
Her mind swooped, whirled, and doubled around on itself, picturing him— Brody, the man— at her knees, bound, and awaiting her command. She shivered and jumped when her assistant appeared at the door. Brody had left, trailing that mysterious aura of vulnerability and strength behind him.”
I loved that these were two broken people who were helping each other heal. Of course, Liz Crowe had me crying again **throws kindle** This story is very emotional AGAIN, and I loved all of the characters although they don’t make the same decisions I would make in their shoes. The situation they were in obviously was a tragic one.
I definitely would recommend reading Shut Out. It’s angsty and leaves you biting your nails but the ending makes the entire story worth it. Give it a try.
July 9, 2015
Part 1
Robert "Brody" Vaughn was a sub. At least he'd been led to believe that by his abusive ex-mistress. Though he has some submissive qualities, he also has a dominant side too. Sophie Harrison, dominatrix and attorney for the Black Jack Gentlemen soccer team, wanted the gorgeous, built, younger soccer player. Their relationship was great, for the most part, aside from his medical problems with his concussion, they loved each other. He was determined to play soccer, even with the headaches, nausea, dizziness and passing out. All that led to surgery to release pressure on his brain from the concussion.
Part 2
Awake from surgery, things would never be the same. Part 2 is happy, sad, heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. You'll have to keep the tissues handy.
This book is a must read! Bravo Liz Crowe! This is an emotionally charged beautiful love story. I HIGHLY recommend reading, not only this book but the entire Black Jack Gentlemen series.
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed is my own.
Robert "Brody" Vaughn was a sub. At least he'd been led to believe that by his abusive ex-mistress. Though he has some submissive qualities, he also has a dominant side too. Sophie Harrison, dominatrix and attorney for the Black Jack Gentlemen soccer team, wanted the gorgeous, built, younger soccer player. Their relationship was great, for the most part, aside from his medical problems with his concussion, they loved each other. He was determined to play soccer, even with the headaches, nausea, dizziness and passing out. All that led to surgery to release pressure on his brain from the concussion.
Part 2
Awake from surgery, things would never be the same. Part 2 is happy, sad, heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. You'll have to keep the tissues handy.
This book is a must read! Bravo Liz Crowe! This is an emotionally charged beautiful love story. I HIGHLY recommend reading, not only this book but the entire Black Jack Gentlemen series.
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed is my own.
January 27, 2023
Another unique & compelling story from this author.
After reading the teaser for Shut Out at the end of the second book in the Black Jack Gentlemen series (Red Card), I was eagerly awaiting this book - and it didn't disappoint!
Set in the world of the Black Jack Gentlemen's soccer team, the story is in two parts - a before and after certain tragic events affecting the main characters.
Sophie is the organisation's lawyer and Brody the team's new goalie.
We have an older woman\younger man , both damaged psychologically and physically who despite everything life throws at them, manage to find their way to a HEA. How they get there is a compelling read (there are some BDSM situations mentioned, but they lend to the story rather than overpower it).
Characters from previous books in the series appear in this story. While Shut Out can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the previous books first, just to have a better connection with the secondary characters.
I can't wait for the next book in this series!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After reading the teaser for Shut Out at the end of the second book in the Black Jack Gentlemen series (Red Card), I was eagerly awaiting this book - and it didn't disappoint!
Set in the world of the Black Jack Gentlemen's soccer team, the story is in two parts - a before and after certain tragic events affecting the main characters.
Sophie is the organisation's lawyer and Brody the team's new goalie.
We have an older woman\younger man , both damaged psychologically and physically who despite everything life throws at them, manage to find their way to a HEA. How they get there is a compelling read (there are some BDSM situations mentioned, but they lend to the story rather than overpower it).
Characters from previous books in the series appear in this story. While Shut Out can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the previous books first, just to have a better connection with the secondary characters.
I can't wait for the next book in this series!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 5, 2013
Shut out? More like shut up! The third book in the Blackjack Gentlemen’s series does not disappoint. Ms. Crowe brings back a character from the Stewart Realty series, Sophie Harrison, and has placed her front and center, and straight in the path of sexy, younger Brody Vaughn, the teams new hot shot goalie. Brody shares deep, dark secrets that Sophie recognizes from her own past. When Brody encounters Sophie at her second career as a dominatrix-for-hire, the sparks fly. Sophie helps Brody deal with his demons, and the two fall in love. But Brody’s first love is the game; and he plays all in. After a head injury that leaves him with memory loss, Sophie is forced to deal with life on her own, without the love of her life.
Liz Crowe once again puts her hand in the reader’s chest, and rips out the heart. My heart pounded from the minute I started reading this book, and was still pounding well after I had finished it.
Liz Crowe once again puts her hand in the reader’s chest, and rips out the heart. My heart pounded from the minute I started reading this book, and was still pounding well after I had finished it.
February 25, 2023
Damaged Souls Brought Together
Sophie Harrison is legal counsel for the Black Jack Gentlemen Soccer Team. Brody Vaughn is their new star goalkeeper. Sophie has no business being attracted to this twenty-six year old. He is a boy and she does not play with boys anymore, however, his mysterious aura of vulnerability and strength captures her interest, After their first encounter Brody cannot get Sophie out of his mind. She renders him useless and full of need. Tragedy brings them together and then pulls them about. This is a captivating story written in two parts. The unexpected twists of trauma and drama tore at my heart and kept me riveted to each page till the end. An emotional read that may be triggering for some.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in return for voluntarily writing an honest review.
Sophie Harrison is legal counsel for the Black Jack Gentlemen Soccer Team. Brody Vaughn is their new star goalkeeper. Sophie has no business being attracted to this twenty-six year old. He is a boy and she does not play with boys anymore, however, his mysterious aura of vulnerability and strength captures her interest, After their first encounter Brody cannot get Sophie out of his mind. She renders him useless and full of need. Tragedy brings them together and then pulls them about. This is a captivating story written in two parts. The unexpected twists of trauma and drama tore at my heart and kept me riveted to each page till the end. An emotional read that may be triggering for some.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in return for voluntarily writing an honest review.
March 15, 2023
This is the second book in the series. There is a gap in time between the two books. This book was a fantastic read with an interesting twist. Sophie is a lawyer for the team. While going over contracts with the new players she meets Brody the new goalie. There is just something about him. Brody is attracted to Sophie as well. The two begin a relationship. Brody is injured during a fight between some other players. This is where things begin to take a turn. He doesn’t want to stop playing. Sophie is constantly worried about him being hurt. I love the twist in this book. Brody and Sophie are wonderful characters. I really felt for both of them. Especially Sophie. I was completely sucked into this story. I can’t wait to read more books in this series. Wonderful job Liz. I couldn’t put this book down once I started.
June 28, 2015
Fast paced, hot, heartbreaking...heartwarming.
Brody is a soccer star, young and cocky.
Sophie is part of his team's legal branch who leads a double lifestyle.
Both of them have had pretty horrific things happen to them in the past. Both are just trying to live their lives without those shadows following them.
Brody is persistent in his play for Sophie's attention. His determination pays off with her and they share an amazing relationship. But, an injury Brody sustains on the playing field threatens to destroy what they have built causing Sophie to keep some pretty big secrets from Brody.
Not your typical romance, it's gritty and dirty and just so frustrating. It makes for a captivating story.
Brody is a soccer star, young and cocky.
Sophie is part of his team's legal branch who leads a double lifestyle.
Both of them have had pretty horrific things happen to them in the past. Both are just trying to live their lives without those shadows following them.
Brody is persistent in his play for Sophie's attention. His determination pays off with her and they share an amazing relationship. But, an injury Brody sustains on the playing field threatens to destroy what they have built causing Sophie to keep some pretty big secrets from Brody.
Not your typical romance, it's gritty and dirty and just so frustrating. It makes for a captivating story.
March 1, 2023
Just like the previous book in this series, you gotta work hard for that HEA y'all. SHEESH. The main characters have such great chemistry and are really working through their past trauma together. It's a beautiful thing. Then they're wrenched apart by fate...bad luck...whatever you want to call it...it sucks.
Brody goes through a lot of inner turmoil and that is why this book didn't get 5 stars from me. Sometimes I felt really bogged down by the weight of his struggles and his a$$holery and would put this book down for a few days. I felt bad for the FMC for most of the book. She didn't want this to be a secret baby trope situation.
Anyway, if you're ready to have your emotions rubbed raw to get to that HEA then this book is for you.
Brody goes through a lot of inner turmoil and that is why this book didn't get 5 stars from me. Sometimes I felt really bogged down by the weight of his struggles and his a$$holery and would put this book down for a few days. I felt bad for the FMC for most of the book. She didn't want this to be a secret baby trope situation.
Anyway, if you're ready to have your emotions rubbed raw to get to that HEA then this book is for you.
June 23, 2015
Sophie isn't afraid to put her man to work, “it's not that easy. I still don’t think you should be here.” She walked on wobbly legs to where she’d left a couple of large garbage bags, grabbed them, and shoved one at him. “Here, make yourself useful and help me clean up this chaos.” A relationship sometimes is all about compromise:
“Hmmm…” He stretched. And her mouth watered at the sight of his sexy , tattooed torso. “If I’m staying at home, I might get bored.”
“Just text me and I’ll rush back to alleviate boredom.” She’d settled back into his arms, content.
I liked this one in the series.
“Hmmm…” He stretched. And her mouth watered at the sight of his sexy , tattooed torso. “If I’m staying at home, I might get bored.”
“Just text me and I’ll rush back to alleviate boredom.” She’d settled back into his arms, content.
I liked this one in the series.
September 19, 2013
4.5 This is the story of a younger man and older woman who are attracted to each other from their first meeting and soon after find out why. There is love, hate, and gut wrenching angst. Sometimes the best fiction is based on truth and I'm wondering if some of this story is not based on a person or situation the author has had a personal experience. In the end, people who are destine to be together find a way to come full circle. You don't have to be a soccer fan to enjoy this book and it will also stand alone of you are not a serial reader. It's an emotional yet satisfying read.
June 27, 2015
Shut Out is the third book in The Black Jack Gentlemen Series by Liz Crowe. We learn more about the Black Jack soccer team, this time about the goalie and the team's lawyer. This book is totally different than the first two books in the series. Although this book can be read as a stand alone, it does help to have read the first two books in the series to know who some of the characters are in the story and their background. I read this book in one sitting because the story drew me in and I had to know what happened. So glad there is a fourth book in the series.
February 20, 2023
Another amazing heartfelt book in the Black Jack series. This book had me hooked from the beginning. It is an emotional read that just broke my heart. Sophie and Brody are two wonderful people who have had so much trauma to overcome. I enjoyed the kink and steamy scenes. These two find their way through all the struggles to a beautiful HEA. Liz Crowe has a way of writing that just pull you in tugs at your heart strings. Five star read all the way.
I was sent a free book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I was sent a free book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
June 29, 2015
I have to say I started out liking this story. However I sort of got confused and turned off and I'm not sure where. The Sub became a dom and the dom became a sub and it sort of felt all over the place. I mean there is nothing wrong with it, but I felt a little off with the story.
It was really hard to follow and there is a tendency to switch back and forth between the third and fourth person and to me sometimes it's seriously hard to read and follow.
It was really hard to follow and there is a tendency to switch back and forth between the third and fourth person and to me sometimes it's seriously hard to read and follow.
May 5, 2014
The third in the series and I never thought book 3 would come close to the other two (and the Stewart Realty Series) but once again, Liz Crowe has captured my heart with Brody and Sophie. Real life happenings, heartwarming and heartbreaking made me unable to put the book down. As always, she captures you in and makes you a part of the story...LOVED THIS!!!
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