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Torched: Afterburn
This is a full-length novel (no cliffhanger) in dual POV. It is a sequel to "Torched" and meant to be read in sequence.
Warning: Contains crude language, explicit sex, and gory violence.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ah, "happily ever after"... The chapter in a story where everything is wrapped up in a pretty little package.
Unfortunately, life doesn't always work that way. Sometimes, what seems like the end is only a beginning.
Torch and I had overcome a mountain of obstacles by clinging to our love for each other, and somehow we'd made it down the aisle in one piece. But real tests of perseverance often don't come until the dust settles, when it's time to ditch the glow and get back to everyday minutiae. And when every day is spent living in the shadows of the Iron Serpents MC, things are bound to get dicey in no time.
Outlaws don't believe in fairy tales, only themselves; the lucky ones also have each other. By taking Torch's promises of honesty at face value and marrying into the club, I'd been given the gift of unbreakable bonds. But promises are easier said than kept, especially when up against an onslaught of relentless storms.
This isn't just a continuing story about love. It's a tale of loyalty, strength, sacrifice, and struggle. In other words, it's about family.
Warning: Contains crude language, explicit sex, and gory violence.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ah, "happily ever after"... The chapter in a story where everything is wrapped up in a pretty little package.
Unfortunately, life doesn't always work that way. Sometimes, what seems like the end is only a beginning.
Torch and I had overcome a mountain of obstacles by clinging to our love for each other, and somehow we'd made it down the aisle in one piece. But real tests of perseverance often don't come until the dust settles, when it's time to ditch the glow and get back to everyday minutiae. And when every day is spent living in the shadows of the Iron Serpents MC, things are bound to get dicey in no time.
Outlaws don't believe in fairy tales, only themselves; the lucky ones also have each other. By taking Torch's promises of honesty at face value and marrying into the club, I'd been given the gift of unbreakable bonds. But promises are easier said than kept, especially when up against an onslaught of relentless storms.
This isn't just a continuing story about love. It's a tale of loyalty, strength, sacrifice, and struggle. In other words, it's about family.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2015
18 people are currently reading
349 people want to read
About the author
Shay Mara
2 books345 followersI'm a traveler, a lover of the weird and wonderful, and a writer who spends too much time in her own neurotic head. Misunderstood people and subcultures fascinate me and I adore women who kick ass without apology, both real and written.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
May 14, 2018
Re-read 12th May - 14th May 2018
Once again I loved this book.
I know not everyone feels the same way. I’ve read through the reviews, some say Liv was just too perfect and annoyingly brilliant at everything.
Others state that the bad decisions annoyed them and it was just an excuse for perfect Liv to sail in and save the day.
They’re right on both counts. Liv is a bit too perfect but she remained strong and true to the end with no stupid in sight. For that alone I loved her and so I forgave her being the best at everything.
Yes the bad decisions annoyed me and while we have an explanation of sorts it was a blatant excuse for Liv to shine. And shine she did and again I didn’t have a real issue with this either.
Now I’m just waiting... for the next book...
Original review.
I loved how his book started, loved how it ended and everything in between.
Having loved 'Torched' I was thrilled when I got the email informing me the second book was out but then I read the blurb and I wasn't sure, you see I love Liv and Torch, they're both fantastic characters especially Liv so I didn't want things going south for them, the blurb spoke of problems and one of the reviews I read mentioned Torch making some really stupid decisions, so I put 2 and 2 together and got 5, I'd assumed he'd cheat on her with a club girl and I wasn't sure there'd be any coming back from that but thankfully I found a review which stated 'no cheating and HEA' so a perfect book for me then.
In order to do it justice I re-read 'Torched' again and it was everything I remembered, so I settled into 'Afterburn' which starts the following day, Liv and Torch are madly in love but they face a bumpy ride, the club is made vulnerable and Torch is feeling the pressure but part of the pressure comes from the fact that he's not sure what to do with Liv, she's definitely not your typical old lady, she's way more than that and so a lot of this book is about Torch and Liv settling into their lives within the club and her finding her place there.
Again the characters are well rounded and 'real' Liv in particular is one of my favourite female characters, she's strong, intelligent, loyal....the list goes on and on and in this book like the previous one she stays true to herself, there's no TSTL moments here. This is a woman who's lived through hell but she's emerged out the other side knowing who she is, what's she's done and what she's capable of and I loved her, ok now I'm making such a big thing out of this because while so many female authors seem capable of writing a great male character a large proportion of them fail when it comes to the female, which always surprised me but I'm sick of TSTL females making stupid decisions, whining all the time, being pathetic and needy, crying to get their own way.....you know what I mean and this makes Liv so very special.
I absolutely loved this book, it's every bit as good as the first one of not better and I can't wait for the next one. As I've said all the characters are great but a special mention has to be given to Zed, can't wait for more of him.
So now I'm just waiting for the next book and this time there'll be no pausing or trepidation on my part I now trust this author not to screw things up for these two.
Once again I loved this book.
I know not everyone feels the same way. I’ve read through the reviews, some say Liv was just too perfect and annoyingly brilliant at everything.
Others state that the bad decisions annoyed them and it was just an excuse for perfect Liv to sail in and save the day.
They’re right on both counts. Liv is a bit too perfect but she remained strong and true to the end with no stupid in sight. For that alone I loved her and so I forgave her being the best at everything.
Yes the bad decisions annoyed me and while we have an explanation of sorts it was a blatant excuse for Liv to shine. And shine she did and again I didn’t have a real issue with this either.
Now I’m just waiting... for the next book...
Original review.
I loved how his book started, loved how it ended and everything in between.
Having loved 'Torched' I was thrilled when I got the email informing me the second book was out but then I read the blurb and I wasn't sure, you see I love Liv and Torch, they're both fantastic characters especially Liv so I didn't want things going south for them, the blurb spoke of problems and one of the reviews I read mentioned Torch making some really stupid decisions, so I put 2 and 2 together and got 5, I'd assumed he'd cheat on her with a club girl and I wasn't sure there'd be any coming back from that but thankfully I found a review which stated 'no cheating and HEA' so a perfect book for me then.
In order to do it justice I re-read 'Torched' again and it was everything I remembered, so I settled into 'Afterburn' which starts the following day, Liv and Torch are madly in love but they face a bumpy ride, the club is made vulnerable and Torch is feeling the pressure but part of the pressure comes from the fact that he's not sure what to do with Liv, she's definitely not your typical old lady, she's way more than that and so a lot of this book is about Torch and Liv settling into their lives within the club and her finding her place there.
Again the characters are well rounded and 'real' Liv in particular is one of my favourite female characters, she's strong, intelligent, loyal....the list goes on and on and in this book like the previous one she stays true to herself, there's no TSTL moments here. This is a woman who's lived through hell but she's emerged out the other side knowing who she is, what's she's done and what she's capable of and I loved her, ok now I'm making such a big thing out of this because while so many female authors seem capable of writing a great male character a large proportion of them fail when it comes to the female, which always surprised me but I'm sick of TSTL females making stupid decisions, whining all the time, being pathetic and needy, crying to get their own way.....you know what I mean and this makes Liv so very special.
I absolutely loved this book, it's every bit as good as the first one of not better and I can't wait for the next one. As I've said all the characters are great but a special mention has to be given to Zed, can't wait for more of him.
So now I'm just waiting for the next book and this time there'll be no pausing or trepidation on my part I now trust this author not to screw things up for these two.
June 29, 2015
TITLE: Torched: After Burn
SERIES: (Iron Serpents MC #2)
AUTHOR: Shay Mara
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
PUBLICATION: June 22nd 2015
MY RATING: 5 STARS!!
I loved this series with a passion!!
Torched: Afterburn is a story about: love, loyalty, strength, sacrifice, unity, and struggle. In other words, it's about family.
Just like the previous book this book just pulls you in, I've grown to really love this authors writing style, her use of words, not over worded, the flow of the story just makes for easy reading..
Livia Ash: I loved reading about powerful monarchies and rulers throughout the times, but not once did I dream about some brave knight showing up to whisk me away. If he had, I probably would’ve slammed the door in his face thinking he’d gotten the wrong maiden’s address. I did end up getting my gallant knight. He just happened to ride in on a Harley instead of a horse, clad in worn leather instead of clunky armor. By biker club standards, I even got the extravagant wedding.
I freaking love these two!! So many times I've caught myself giggling out loud with their antics, whether it be racing away from cops on a joy ride and Torches reprimand to his wifey or being caught in a compromising position during a paint ball game with Torches ass becoming the lily white target are priceless..
Torch - What I'm trying to figure out is how the fuck to balance out my wife and my club.
I am so glad I came across this author!! I have read shitloads of biker books (too many to count) and this series, even though it wasn't dark or gritty Shay Mara kept my attention throughout, add in the heroine who is one kick ass sassy bitch and her hot alpha hubby, club life drama this series just ticked all my boxes, it didn't have to have all the dark and gritty things and that is what made this series unique within itself..I loved this authors writing style, the humour, the story line, the fact that Livia was one tough character and not a whiney bitch was an added bonus too..What more can I say other than I loved it!! I really can't wait to see what this author brings to us readers next!!
“I want you to kill me, Liv.”
That above I did not see coming, you think liv's jaw dropped to the floor, I shit you not I needed a shovel to pick mine up!!
You know how you come across a book/series and you sit there devouring it, racing through the pages to get to the end, then you reach the end and that sadness envelopes you, this is one of those moments for me, it just left me sad that it's ended, it's left me gasping for more and I truly hope the author brings it to us, because seriously this series is just epic and I don't throw words like that around just for the sake of it, I highly recommend this series!! If your a biker bitch in the closet come out of it and one click this series you will not regret it!!
Torch - Baby if I wanted a weak bitch to rescue all the time, I would've found myself a princess. I picked a queen, and a proper queen stands next to her fucking King. So, are you gonna be one of those bitches who waits in a tower or are you getting that sexy ass on this horse and coming with me?
July 14, 2015
I've looked at other reviews shaking my head, saying girl you must be insane, everyone loves Torched: Afterburn; it's a smashing success! So what the hell is wrong with me, do I not have twenty- twenty and can't visualize what everyone else seeing? Book one I adored, loved hands down, but this...ahhh where to begin? Torch and Liv comes back from their honeymoon, when the VP learns of major shit hitting the club. (Sorry won't go into too many details, as I don't want to give anything away) Lets just say the club and brothers are at risk, there's plausible solutions to fixing the problems without losing face. Rather than do the smart thing, the club votes....WRONG and Buddha makes several bad decisions. These aren't minor little fuck ups, he's president of numerous charters, has more than hundreds if not thousands of men serving under him, yet he makes so many bad calls!
These are bikers, badass that takes shit from no one, yet for some reason they acted and behaved like college pussies! Liv is a gal I can respect and get down with. She's a hero through and through. Brave, badass, stands up for what she believes in, major attitude! Hahahaha love it when she gets feisty! She has more balls than any of the brothers! And this is why I love her (Liv) “I’m not stupid, we were targeted. This is exactly the kind of shit we agreed to be honest about, so don’t even think about lying to me anymore. You’ve been completely freezing me out and I’m at the end of my fucking rope. So, unless you want me wrapping it around your neck in your sleep… Talk!”
Liv outshines everyone, including the MC. She made the guys look like bumbling idiots. They couldn't wipe their own asses without her input.
The storyline & plot was solid, but I think the main goal was to place her on such a high pedestal the author lost focus on how an MC operates. Sorry not trying to be a troll, but that's why the three star rating. You may decided differently, either way enjoy!
September 20, 2015
** 3.5 stars **
I didn't like this one as much as the first one. The author makes the heroine soooo perfect that everyone else, including the bikers, looks like idiots. She was basically a biker romance Mary Sue, she can ride better than you, shoot better than you, her hacking skills can rule the world, she is a tough bitch, she always says and does the right thing - well basically she is perfect. I got sick of that and the way the hero felt he couldn't measure up (who could?).
I didn't like this one as much as the first one. The author makes the heroine soooo perfect that everyone else, including the bikers, looks like idiots. She was basically a biker romance Mary Sue, she can ride better than you, shoot better than you, her hacking skills can rule the world, she is a tough bitch, she always says and does the right thing - well basically she is perfect. I got sick of that and the way the hero felt he couldn't measure up (who could?).
June 25, 2015
Do you want the perfect prescription for a book hangover? Let me share, it’s a Shay Mara book. Her book Torched, the first book in the Iron Serpents Motorcycle Club series was my first 5 star read this year and I can shamelessly say I loved it so much I pimped that puppy out everywhere. There I was, in the midst of a massive book hangover, saw SM’s post on FB that Torched: Afterburn was live and 1-Clicked just as fast as I could pull it up on Amazon. That was after doing cartwheels in my head and screaming at my husband “It’s here! It’s here!” Then I proceeded to read until 3AM. I was a little worried with this being a continuation of Liv and Torch’s story (I tend to not enjoy second books about the same couple) but I can assure you that I loved this one.
There’s no big time lapse, the story picks up the day after the last book ended with the biker wedding to end all biker weddings. Just like in real life, this is no fairytale. This series revolves around a strong man, an arguably stronger woman, and an MC so you expect there to be some growing pains, especially as the club deals with an Old Lady with the skill level and know-how of Liv. As she, Torch and the club figure out with lots and lots of mis-steps what exactly her place is going to be and what role she will be allowed to fulfill, the outside world decides to once again get all up in their space. On top of that, one of their own is fighting a battle that no amount of firepower can contain and all the MC family can do is try to be there for them out as much as he will allow them to be.
Torch and Liv are just as strong and stubborn as they were in book 1, maybe even more so, since they have more to lose. The chemistry between them is just as combustible, the fights just as heated (along with all the makeup sex), and the feelings equally as strong. Where book 1 was about finding each other, then finding their way back, this book was how they learned to be together, having missed out on that opportunity before. It’s hard enough for newly weds to figure everything out, let alone when you are dealing with the outside issues that were dumped on Liv and Torch’s door. Reading it was tough at times and Torch had some true dumbass moments but I completely understood why he did the things he did. Yes, there were a couple times I was hoping Liv would just knock him upside the head, but then I wanted her to hug him afterwards to make it all better. I loved how Liv never lost her voice in this book and stayed true to her character from book one and never became the type of Old Lady who just stood by her man by quietly staying in the background.
This book is at times gritty and violent (triggers: View Spoiler »). People from both Torch and Livia’s past come back to haunt them and lots of blood is spilled. Of course all the Iron Serpents and the other Old Ladies are around, providing lots of comic relief and/or ass-kickings. I love it when a second book lives up to the promise of the first.
Laurie’s Rating: 5 freaking-thrilled-Stars
For this review and more like it, check out http://edgyreviews.com
There’s no big time lapse, the story picks up the day after the last book ended with the biker wedding to end all biker weddings. Just like in real life, this is no fairytale. This series revolves around a strong man, an arguably stronger woman, and an MC so you expect there to be some growing pains, especially as the club deals with an Old Lady with the skill level and know-how of Liv. As she, Torch and the club figure out with lots and lots of mis-steps what exactly her place is going to be and what role she will be allowed to fulfill, the outside world decides to once again get all up in their space. On top of that, one of their own is fighting a battle that no amount of firepower can contain and all the MC family can do is try to be there for them out as much as he will allow them to be.
Torch and Liv are just as strong and stubborn as they were in book 1, maybe even more so, since they have more to lose. The chemistry between them is just as combustible, the fights just as heated (along with all the makeup sex), and the feelings equally as strong. Where book 1 was about finding each other, then finding their way back, this book was how they learned to be together, having missed out on that opportunity before. It’s hard enough for newly weds to figure everything out, let alone when you are dealing with the outside issues that were dumped on Liv and Torch’s door. Reading it was tough at times and Torch had some true dumbass moments but I completely understood why he did the things he did. Yes, there were a couple times I was hoping Liv would just knock him upside the head, but then I wanted her to hug him afterwards to make it all better. I loved how Liv never lost her voice in this book and stayed true to her character from book one and never became the type of Old Lady who just stood by her man by quietly staying in the background.
This book is at times gritty and violent (triggers: View Spoiler »). People from both Torch and Livia’s past come back to haunt them and lots of blood is spilled. Of course all the Iron Serpents and the other Old Ladies are around, providing lots of comic relief and/or ass-kickings. I love it when a second book lives up to the promise of the first.
Laurie’s Rating: 5 freaking-thrilled-Stars
For this review and more like it, check out http://edgyreviews.com
June 26, 2015
**Spoilers if you didn't read the first book, Torched**
I, honest to God, LOVED this book. I read it in one sitting without once having my mind wander off.
To be even more honest(er)... I wasn't necessarily "in love" with the idea of continuing Torch and Liv's story before I started to read because their first ended in such an epic and bikerly romantic way. (I think that was the best ending btw...a hundred bikes picking her up from jail with a vest? Proposal? It was like the stereotypical romance novel ending with bikers. Awesome!)
Anyway....
I was already invested in these characters, so I was ready to read more, but not ready for what we got in this book. And here is the small problem....(otherwise known as the lost star of this story)...everything was connected *too* perfectly. It was like, here's these great characters that you know had the shittiest beginning in life and we're going to make sure they each get their revenge...oh, and we are going to add in a little more story for the whole MC (which I liked) but it's all going to tie up in the prettiest Alexander McQueen scarf, ever. (Gotta be the skull scarf!)
I thought it was going to be an extended epilogue but it was much, much more. I would caution though, that in my opinion, reading the first book is paramount to really getting into the story. While it might not be necessary, I think that because I read the first book, and liked it, was the only reason this book only lost one star for the predictable plot and (sometimes) outrageous "love fest" between characters. (Everybody loves, everybody...and they say it! LOL)
Anyway...
Read this book if you want:
1. A continuation to married life for Torch and Liv.
2. A fairly "easy" read that was quick and painless.
3. If you like people getting revenge on their parents and/or those that hurt them.
4. A "crawler" getting back into the fold (I hope Nadia is the next h, if this series continues. AND I have never thought that, not even remotely, about a club whore before (Hey, that rhymed!)
5. Another great HEA for characters that definitely deserved two of them (Remember that Liv was given to two rapist brothers because her father sucked at poker? Seriously, worst. Father. Ever.)
Well, read on, internet! Read on!
I, honest to God, LOVED this book. I read it in one sitting without once having my mind wander off.
To be even more honest(er)... I wasn't necessarily "in love" with the idea of continuing Torch and Liv's story before I started to read because their first ended in such an epic and bikerly romantic way. (I think that was the best ending btw...a hundred bikes picking her up from jail with a vest? Proposal? It was like the stereotypical romance novel ending with bikers. Awesome!)
Anyway....
I was already invested in these characters, so I was ready to read more, but not ready for what we got in this book. And here is the small problem....(otherwise known as the lost star of this story)...everything was connected *too* perfectly. It was like, here's these great characters that you know had the shittiest beginning in life and we're going to make sure they each get their revenge...oh, and we are going to add in a little more story for the whole MC (which I liked) but it's all going to tie up in the prettiest Alexander McQueen scarf, ever. (Gotta be the skull scarf!)
I thought it was going to be an extended epilogue but it was much, much more. I would caution though, that in my opinion, reading the first book is paramount to really getting into the story. While it might not be necessary, I think that because I read the first book, and liked it, was the only reason this book only lost one star for the predictable plot and (sometimes) outrageous "love fest" between characters. (Everybody loves, everybody...and they say it! LOL)
Anyway...
Read this book if you want:
1. A continuation to married life for Torch and Liv.
2. A fairly "easy" read that was quick and painless.
3. If you like people getting revenge on their parents and/or those that hurt them.
4. A "crawler" getting back into the fold (I hope Nadia is the next h, if this series continues. AND I have never thought that, not even remotely, about a club whore before (Hey, that rhymed!)
5. Another great HEA for characters that definitely deserved two of them (Remember that Liv was given to two rapist brothers because her father sucked at poker? Seriously, worst. Father. Ever.)
Well, read on, internet! Read on!
June 30, 2015
A wonderful continuation of Torch and Liv's love story. Please read book 1 in this series before reading this one. You will lose so much context and character history if you don't. I re-read book 1 Saturday before starting book 2 and book 1 was still a 5 star read second time around. Torch with his bad alpha self is loyal, loving and makes many concessions with Liv because he loves her that much. Liv is such a cool heroine, nothing weak about her. She's one of the guys with a steel backbone and Torch allows her the independence that she needs to be the strong woman she is. She feels and loves deeply but she really is a bad a** willing to take chances for the people she loves. Yes, at times it seems like the characters are just a little too perfect but that didn't make me love this crowd of characters any less. The banter between the guys gave me many LOL moments and I almost cried a tear or two. This author wrote such an emotional love story that will make Torch and Liv one of my favorite couples for a long time. Now I'm looking forward to Zed, Grimm and Buddha's stories. No cheating and a HEA.
August 25, 2015
5.0⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I LOVED THIS BOOK!
I reread book 1 and loved it more the second time around than the first. If you haven't read book 1, I advise that you do. This book would just confuse you and you wouldn't have the back story.
This is Torch and Liv's continuation story starting up 3 days after her release from prison. Once again, I freaken love Liv!! I can't say it enough. She is by far my favorite MC heroine, actually she's up there as one of the best ones period. She's smart, funny, strong and badass. She's loyal and has Torch and the Clubs back 100%. I love Torch and Liv, they make one powerful couple.
The drama in this book isn't as gritty as the first, but it still shows a ruthless life of the MC. This one definitely had a more tear factor and was really about Torch and Liv being a couple in and out of the MC and the obstacles that come along with it. I'm happy the author kept all characters the same. Sometimes in sequels the personalities can change, but not here. I loved all the men in the MC, there was no POS amongst the group or grudges. All men where loyal and backed up Torch and Liv as a couple. There is a small hiccup in their relationship but no cheating or leaving.
I'm glad Ms. Mara did a follow up story on this awesome couple but I'm definitely looking forward to the future characters stories.
I reread book 1 and loved it more the second time around than the first. If you haven't read book 1, I advise that you do. This book would just confuse you and you wouldn't have the back story.
This is Torch and Liv's continuation story starting up 3 days after her release from prison. Once again, I freaken love Liv!! I can't say it enough. She is by far my favorite MC heroine, actually she's up there as one of the best ones period. She's smart, funny, strong and badass. She's loyal and has Torch and the Clubs back 100%. I love Torch and Liv, they make one powerful couple.
The drama in this book isn't as gritty as the first, but it still shows a ruthless life of the MC. This one definitely had a more tear factor and was really about Torch and Liv being a couple in and out of the MC and the obstacles that come along with it. I'm happy the author kept all characters the same. Sometimes in sequels the personalities can change, but not here. I loved all the men in the MC, there was no POS amongst the group or grudges. All men where loyal and backed up Torch and Liv as a couple. There is a small hiccup in their relationship but no cheating or leaving.
I'm glad Ms. Mara did a follow up story on this awesome couple but I'm definitely looking forward to the future characters stories.
June 29, 2015
5 Stars!!!
June 1, 2016
This was my second attempt to read Torched- Afterburn. The first time I'd shelved it Maybe Later, glad I did because the second time I tackled it was the right time.
The majority of the story had a 3 star pace to it but it was the end the convinced me it was worthy of 4 stars. Liv and Torch work well together but there were aspects about both characters that didn't work for me. Liv was cold and caring...a lovely person which made her cold hard side difficult to adjust to. Torch was alpha, a good leader, yet he acquiesced whenever Liv held her ground. This where I found myself conflicted, I like heroines to be of strong character but this felt like it was all one sided. She had all the sway the majority of the time.
I enjoyed the way Liv utilised her hacking skills to get to the truth and her ability to see when to assist those in need. It was these moments that garnered the respect I felt for her character. She also had a knack of adding a bit of light heartedness to situations and forming bridges through her positive attitude with the secondary characters in the story.
Glad I read this story at what turned out to be the right time for me. A big thank you to Laurie for giving me the nudge pick this book up again :)
The majority of the story had a 3 star pace to it but it was the end the convinced me it was worthy of 4 stars. Liv and Torch work well together but there were aspects about both characters that didn't work for me. Liv was cold and caring...a lovely person which made her cold hard side difficult to adjust to. Torch was alpha, a good leader, yet he acquiesced whenever Liv held her ground. This where I found myself conflicted, I like heroines to be of strong character but this felt like it was all one sided. She had all the sway the majority of the time.
I enjoyed the way Liv utilised her hacking skills to get to the truth and her ability to see when to assist those in need. It was these moments that garnered the respect I felt for her character. She also had a knack of adding a bit of light heartedness to situations and forming bridges through her positive attitude with the secondary characters in the story.
Glad I read this story at what turned out to be the right time for me. A big thank you to Laurie for giving me the nudge pick this book up again :)
August 25, 2015
Going into this book I was like really Shay, I liked the way Torched ended and really didn't see the point of having a continuation of Livie and Torch's story. But boy was I wrong. I abso-freaking-lutely loved this book.
Livie once again proves that she's a loyal badass wife and will stand by her man at all times no matter what. She continues to prove her locality to the Serpents throughout the book. She knows how to manipulate Torch to get exactly what she wants while still allowing him to keep his manliness and ego in check. I really hope that this won't be the last of them we get to see, hopefully Nadia and Zeb can get a book next.
Livie once again proves that she's a loyal badass wife and will stand by her man at all times no matter what. She continues to prove her locality to the Serpents throughout the book. She knows how to manipulate Torch to get exactly what she wants while still allowing him to keep his manliness and ego in check. I really hope that this won't be the last of them we get to see, hopefully Nadia and Zeb can get a book next.
June 25, 2015
Excellent! Livia is one badass chick. Loved catching up with the Iron Serpents. Cant wait for the next instalment.
July 27, 2015
Unfortunately I found this a bit boring. After reading the first which was awesome I was excited to continue the story but was let down :(
October 10, 2017
“You’re something else, Livia Larter,” he smirked between labored breaths.
I smiled up at him and touched his flushed cheek, still mentally swimming in a pool of post-orgasm euphoria. “You’re stuck with me, Torch Larter. I love the shit out of you, baby.”
He kissed the top of my head and squeezed my bare ass. “I love the shit out of you too, beautiful. Come on, the sooner we get back to where cops are on payroll, the better.”
I've read the first book in this series quite a few times but because I enjoyed it so much and I was completely content with the HEA that Torch and Liv got, I never wanted to risk reading this book if their relationship would take a turn and ruin the perfect ending to the first book. I'm glad I decided to read this one. Their relationship only got stronger IMO. It felt a lot deeper and more solid and Torch's affection was so sweet to witness.
Was this book as great as the first one? No. But not because it was a bad book, just because the first one was so goddamn good that the standard was set high.
I also had concerns that Livs subtle 'takeover', that was mentioned in many reviews, would be cringey. I love her Mary Sue ways but I didn't want it be so over the top that the club was an embarrassment. This wasn't exactly the case. Yes in hindsight she did contribute to pretty much all the solutions to the clubs problems, but it wasn't god awful to read.
This was completely safe relationship wise.
No cheating.
Neither of the MC's strayed in the slightest which I know is a concern for me and many others. Of course it has violence and other things that might be triggers but it's not a heavy/dark book IMO.
This book actually had the opposite effect to the first one, whilst I was content with stopping at the HEA in book 1, book 2 actually made me want more. I could happily follow Torch and Liv for another 5 books but I'm guessing that's not in the cards. Their story ticks a lot of boxes for me, it's a motorcycle club book that's safe, easy to read and has equal amounts of 'badassery' as much as affection and love.
I smiled up at him and touched his flushed cheek, still mentally swimming in a pool of post-orgasm euphoria. “You’re stuck with me, Torch Larter. I love the shit out of you, baby.”
He kissed the top of my head and squeezed my bare ass. “I love the shit out of you too, beautiful. Come on, the sooner we get back to where cops are on payroll, the better.”
I've read the first book in this series quite a few times but because I enjoyed it so much and I was completely content with the HEA that Torch and Liv got, I never wanted to risk reading this book if their relationship would take a turn and ruin the perfect ending to the first book. I'm glad I decided to read this one. Their relationship only got stronger IMO. It felt a lot deeper and more solid and Torch's affection was so sweet to witness.
Was this book as great as the first one? No. But not because it was a bad book, just because the first one was so goddamn good that the standard was set high.
I also had concerns that Livs subtle 'takeover', that was mentioned in many reviews, would be cringey. I love her Mary Sue ways but I didn't want it be so over the top that the club was an embarrassment. This wasn't exactly the case. Yes in hindsight she did contribute to pretty much all the solutions to the clubs problems, but it wasn't god awful to read.
This was completely safe relationship wise.
No cheating.
Neither of the MC's strayed in the slightest which I know is a concern for me and many others. Of course it has violence and other things that might be triggers but it's not a heavy/dark book IMO.
This book actually had the opposite effect to the first one, whilst I was content with stopping at the HEA in book 1, book 2 actually made me want more. I could happily follow Torch and Liv for another 5 books but I'm guessing that's not in the cards. Their story ticks a lot of boxes for me, it's a motorcycle club book that's safe, easy to read and has equal amounts of 'badassery' as much as affection and love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2016
ahh.. the irony of contemplating your own mortality because of cancer while smoking a cigarette, that was funny.
November 15, 2017
the best!!
June 14, 2019
I have read and reread this book and it’s prequel several times. I adore the characters and the story is sublime. Livia is a kick arse woman who inspires! Highly recommend
September 3, 2019
Loved this one, not as fantastic as the first but still incredible. Skimmed the plot a bit because it was.. a lil boring for me lol but overall I loved this.
October 27, 2019
Second book was almost as great as the first one! Great writing, great story. One of my favorite MC books. Wish the author would write more - would definitely read.
November 18, 2022
Awesome Book!
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes MC biker romance books!!! I loved everything about this actions packed book!!!
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes MC biker romance books!!! I loved everything about this actions packed book!!!
May 2, 2025
I love how Liv isnt just the hero of her own story, but the book. I love how Torch lets.. ..infact helps her shine.
February 28, 2017
pretty disappointed with this, I absolutely loved the first one, but there didn't seem much point to this one though. Would love to see a story about Zed and Nadia though.
July 15, 2015
I really enjoyed books one and two. I'd liken what I've read to 'Move the Sun - Signal Bend #1’ (GREAT series, btw) - by Susan Fanetti which introduces a somewhat similar - to Liv - character named Lilli Accardo. Both are kick-a$$ women who are tough, snarky, and street smart. Obviously, Lilli is not a character I've forgotten and now I'll add Livia Ash to that list.
The MC almost takes a back-seat to Livia, and Torch. I liked them as a couple and their love story is a winding road of ups and downs and certainly not one I'd want to have missed reading. Do I think two books is enough for Torch and Livia? Yes; because I know we'll get updates on them in the MC Series books that follow (a win-win all the way around). Besides; (and this is a first for me to say this in a MC book review), I don't see Livia as a being pregnant and her place in the MC brings danger and she's not the type to stop putting herself into dangerous situations. I just don't envision it, and a GREAT writer could change my mind. I love Torch and Livia......and there are so many other very fine MC men like Zed and Grimm, who'll need major love-take-downs.
The MC guys…..HOT. They are quite stealthy as well. I really enjoyed the dangerous work they got into and was rooting for them all the way!
Special mention for Buddha: I'm so glad he made it through and wouldn't it be fantastic that even at his age he could find love? Hint.....hint. His character was written with such depth and warmth. I just fell in love with the man and what Nadia did for him was miraculous. Nadia needs a man as well……..hmmmm.
So far this series is off the ground and running! I have high hopes for it and have thoroughly enjoyed both books one and two.
Thank you.
The MC almost takes a back-seat to Livia, and Torch. I liked them as a couple and their love story is a winding road of ups and downs and certainly not one I'd want to have missed reading. Do I think two books is enough for Torch and Livia? Yes; because I know we'll get updates on them in the MC Series books that follow (a win-win all the way around). Besides; (and this is a first for me to say this in a MC book review), I don't see Livia as a being pregnant and her place in the MC brings danger and she's not the type to stop putting herself into dangerous situations. I just don't envision it, and a GREAT writer could change my mind. I love Torch and Livia......and there are so many other very fine MC men like Zed and Grimm, who'll need major love-take-downs.
The MC guys…..HOT. They are quite stealthy as well. I really enjoyed the dangerous work they got into and was rooting for them all the way!
Special mention for Buddha: I'm so glad he made it through and wouldn't it be fantastic that even at his age he could find love? Hint.....hint. His character was written with such depth and warmth. I just fell in love with the man and what Nadia did for him was miraculous. Nadia needs a man as well……..hmmmm.
So far this series is off the ground and running! I have high hopes for it and have thoroughly enjoyed both books one and two.
Thank you.
July 6, 2015
I came across this book by accident, it was more of an afterthought to check when the next book in the series would be out, and turned out it was already published! As I had recently re-read the first book, it was easy to hop on along the ride.
After reading the blurb I was a bit sceptical, considering that I already have read a few books that have had the same line of "This isn't a sweet love story, this is a story about dark violence, upheaval and tested bonds" or so one, ending with "on the other words, this is a story about family". And not all of those earlier books could deliver. This one did though, fortunately.
The story wasn't too predictable even though it wasn't completely new either (then again, what is?), and the plot had enough twists and turns in it to remain interesting and unpredictable. I still liked Liv and Torch a lot, although around the chapter 24 the book started to lose a bit of it's already vague realism, when they started killing people left and right without any remorse. I had a fleeting thought about psychopaths, but considering the way the book is written with a tongue in the cheek at times, I didn't take anything too seriously.
The banter was still great and fun, and the relationship between Liv and Torch made me often smile. There were some really cheesy scenes and lines, but it all worked out in the end. An entertaining book.
3.5-4 stars.
After reading the blurb I was a bit sceptical, considering that I already have read a few books that have had the same line of "This isn't a sweet love story, this is a story about dark violence, upheaval and tested bonds" or so one, ending with "on the other words, this is a story about family". And not all of those earlier books could deliver. This one did though, fortunately.
The story wasn't too predictable even though it wasn't completely new either (then again, what is?), and the plot had enough twists and turns in it to remain interesting and unpredictable. I still liked Liv and Torch a lot, although around the chapter 24 the book started to lose a bit of it's already vague realism, when they started killing people left and right without any remorse. I had a fleeting thought about psychopaths, but considering the way the book is written with a tongue in the cheek at times, I didn't take anything too seriously.
The banter was still great and fun, and the relationship between Liv and Torch made me often smile. There were some really cheesy scenes and lines, but it all worked out in the end. An entertaining book.
3.5-4 stars.
January 21, 2016
4.5 Stars
So this wasn't so much a book about Liv and Torch, though it certainly does revolve around them and their relationship/marriage, but it was much more about the culmination of the club, it's members, their love and loyalty to one another and not to mention, trust...that was so important in this book! In the center of it all, of course, is the most baddest bitch ever: Livia Larter! She definitely proved that she can play with the big boys in this book and that no matter what the circumstances are nobody should ever underestimate her because she will always prove you wrong! She knows exactly when to back off and give her husband the space he needs, she knows when she needs to act like the wife of the president of the mother chapter of the MC but most importantly she just knows how to be the woman that Torch fell in love with, the woman he will die for!
Their story definitely comes full circle in this second book, both Liv and Torch face their painful pasts and get their closure, they seal those doors shut once and for all! Now they can move on and face the world together! This has been an amazing series so far, but only because the author has written the female lead to be strong, independent and the ultimate leader! If she continues down this path, the rest of this series will prosper and be fucking fantastic!
So this wasn't so much a book about Liv and Torch, though it certainly does revolve around them and their relationship/marriage, but it was much more about the culmination of the club, it's members, their love and loyalty to one another and not to mention, trust...that was so important in this book! In the center of it all, of course, is the most baddest bitch ever: Livia Larter! She definitely proved that she can play with the big boys in this book and that no matter what the circumstances are nobody should ever underestimate her because she will always prove you wrong! She knows exactly when to back off and give her husband the space he needs, she knows when she needs to act like the wife of the president of the mother chapter of the MC but most importantly she just knows how to be the woman that Torch fell in love with, the woman he will die for!
Their story definitely comes full circle in this second book, both Liv and Torch face their painful pasts and get their closure, they seal those doors shut once and for all! Now they can move on and face the world together! This has been an amazing series so far, but only because the author has written the female lead to be strong, independent and the ultimate leader! If she continues down this path, the rest of this series will prosper and be fucking fantastic!
June 13, 2016
But outside of foreplay, that macho shit didn’t work on women like the one he was staring at, it just reminded them of all the headaches they could save themselves by leaving. Their power was in self-awareness, in the confidence of knowing they could survive anything and do it alone. Demanding subservience was like trying to stick reins on a wild horse, you were just asking to get kicked in the damn face. Intimidation, threats, they didn’t cower to any of it, they saw it as a goddamn challenge to be won.
He sighed and turned his bike back off so she’d hear him loud and clear. “Baby, if I wanted a weak bitch to rescue all the time, I would’ve found myself a princess. I picked a queen, and a proper queen stands next to her fucking king. So, are you gonna be one of those bitches who waits in a tower or are you getting that sexy ass on this horse and coming with me?”
Her lip curled. “Biker poetry at its finest.”
Adversity bred chaos, but perseverance through the eye of a storm bred loyalty and strength.
He sighed and turned his bike back off so she’d hear him loud and clear. “Baby, if I wanted a weak bitch to rescue all the time, I would’ve found myself a princess. I picked a queen, and a proper queen stands next to her fucking king. So, are you gonna be one of those bitches who waits in a tower or are you getting that sexy ass on this horse and coming with me?”
Her lip curled. “Biker poetry at its finest.”
Adversity bred chaos, but perseverance through the eye of a storm bred loyalty and strength.
July 13, 2015
This book was great. I actually loved this one more than the first one. I want to be Livia! She has become my new hero. She is like wonder woman times 100. Livia and Torch are now married, and she is just trying to find her way in the club life. She wants to contribute and do her part. Because of several things happening in the club, Torch has taken on a lot of responsibilities as well as a lot of worries that he is having a hard time dealing with. Some of the things happening in the club, OMG! You will never see some of it coming until BAM! There are so many twists and turns in this book, but that is part of what made it so great. Torch and Livia have a lot of obstacles to overcome, but I love that their love for one another is never in question. This was one of the best reads of my summer. I hope we get more. I'm hoping for Grim's story.
July 27, 2017
Gadverdamme... wát een lekkuhrrr boek weer! More Torch & Livia Larter. Ik kan er geen genoeg van krijgen!! In dit boek wordt echt álles uit de kast gehaald om te laten hoe goed GOED Liv is...! Om een paar dingen te noemen; Torch's vader blijkt een enemy en er wordt op gepaste wijze met hem afgerekend. Buddah heeft kanker maar geneest dankzij Liv's acties. Terwijl ze Buddah redt komt ze erachter dat ze een zusje heeft die ook kanker heeft en ten dode is opgeschreven. Tussen alle bedrijven door redt ze haar zusje en kan ze het nog opbrengen haar douchebag vader te vergeven. Kortom: completely over the top, maar... van Livia en Torch kan ik het hebben! ;-) Héérlijk boek! Meer dan 5 sterren! Ben benieuwd of de serie verder gaat?
July 19, 2015
Absolutely LOVED it!!! I didn't want it to end. I actually thought about taking a star away because it ended!! lol But I thought "best not do that". Shay Mara is one of the best authors I have came across. There is no fluff and endless stupid thoughts that go on and on and on and on. The story flows and evolves beautifully. I loved the heck out of all the characters. Torch is every womans dream, tough, dominant, a manly man except for Liv. A charmer, lover, melt your panties kind of man. And Liv? OMG, tough as nails, true hard ass woman but has a heart of gold to go with it. I cannot wait for the next book to come out. I hope it doesn't take too long. Happy Reading everyone.
June 30, 2015
I love biker books and I think I've probably read more than 60 books with this theme and Liv is the best female lead ever. She is fearless, independent, bad ass and has a huge heart. Liv & Torch is OTP material for sure. I can't wait for Zed and Nadia's story (hope Shay writes about it because I love him already). Fantastic read, would recommend to anyone who likes strong women instead of doormatzzzzzzz.
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