The Rules

Off-Limits #2

by Elizabeth Brown

An older-brother's-best-friend romance

When you're a guy, the rules are simple. Live by the Bro Code:
Rule #1: Always have his back.
Rule #2: Don’t ever leave him stranded.
Rule #3: Never, ever, touch his sister.

Aw, hell. Two out of three ain't bad.
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Warning: This story contains mature humor, a lot of cursing, and of course, sexual situations. It’s intended for adult readers who enjoy that kind of thing.
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Lambo and Ainsley's story.
Dual POV with no cliffhanger.
Book 2 in The Off-Limits series. Standalone- but you'll enjoy it more if you read Book 1.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, New Adult, Contemporary Romance, Erotica, Forbidden Love, Friends To Lovers

324 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 2, 2016

About the author

I write kissing books. But with a lot more than just kissing.😉
👉 https://amzn.to/2Okroac
I love travel 🛫, tacos 🌮, and all things girly💄💕🌸

Come find me online:
Facebook: facebook.com/groups/elizabethbrownsre...
Twitter: @elizbrownauthor
Email: liz dot brownish at gmail dot com
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Website:
https://elizabethbrownauthor.wordpres...

Reviews

[SueBee★bring me an alpha!★ · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2! The Rules (stand-alone), book 2. Rules are made to be broken with best friend’s baby sister!

I was lucky enough to beta read this last year. But when book released I was swamped with work project. I owe this book and author a review...

Books in The Off-Limits series are stand-alones, but most enjoyed if read in order:
Book 1: The Lessons
Book 2: The Rules
Book 3: The Mistakes

The Rules (stand-alone book 2) is about wanting something that is off limits.

Hotel empire heir and executive Lambo Christie kissed his best friend’s baby sister, librarian Ainsley Andrews when she was only 16 years old. He had no idea who she was and ever since they have had a distant contemptuous relationship, until their paths cross again nine years later and a deal is struck.

It’s much more than friend of brother’s off-limits romance as will be evident when story unfolds. In addition to the forbidden romance aspect there is angst, buried secrets, stigmas, daunting obstacles, sexual tension and hilarious situations. 4.5 solid stars!

***
Hero rating: 4.5 stars
Heroine rating: 4.5 stars
Sexual tension rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 5 stars
Plot rating: 4.5 stars
Dialogue rating: 4.5 stars
Storytelling rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: 4.5 stars
Book editing rating (5 = no edits spotted): N/A, beta
*******************************************
Overall rating: 4.5 stars

Would I recommend this book: Yes.
Would I re-read this book: Maybe later.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.

BETA copy provided to me by author Elizabeth Brown in exchange for an honest review.

[Patty ~ Wrapped Up In Reading Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

*****3.75 STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}








This story contained two of my favorite tropes – second chance romance & romance with the older brother’s best-friend. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series and was anxious to get my hands on this one, but in my opinion, the first one is still my favorite.



Ainsley Andrews is the little sister of Ryan, the hero of book one. She works in the local library and lives with her brother and his girlfriend. Ainsley hasn’t been out with too many men. Things tend to fall apart whenever sex is introduced in her relationships. Something very traumatizing happened to her when she was a young girl and now she has this condition called vaginismus. Her vagina doesn’t open up and no man has been able to succeed in the penetration department. So here I was rolling my eyes because I have never heard of such a thing, but yes ladies, it is REAL!!!!



Lambo Christie is one of Ryan’s college buddies and he’s had an attraction for Ainsley for quite some time. The feeling is very mutual. They met once at a fraternity party. Lambo thought she was a college coed. He had no idea she was only sixteen and that she was Ryan’s little sister. Things got a little heated but quickly ended when Lambo discovered who Ainsley was. Years later they end up together at Ryan’s wedding in Vegas. One thing leads to another and Lambo learns of Ainsley’s sad predicament and offers to help her fix it.



Ainsley and Lambo secretly carry on a purely physical relationship for quite a while. Ainsley’s afraid that her over protective brother will flip if he learns that she’s been messing around with Lambo. But as they spend more time together, deeper feelings begin to develop and Lambo has his hands full with trying to convince Ainsley that he wants to take their relationship to the serious level.



I had a hard time connecting with the main characters. Lambo was thirty but seemed to behave like an immature teenager. I just didn’t get what was so attractive about this man. Ainsley definitely had a ton of issues but I wish she had been a stronger heroine.



Overall the story was ok but just didn’t wow me like THE LESSONS had.

[✰ Liz ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I'm not leaving you alone."~Lambo

The Rules is the second book in the Off-Limits Series. In The Lessons (the first book in the series), we met Ryan's best friend Lambo and Ryan's sister Ainsley. What happens when a forbidden fling transforms into a heart stopping, swoon worthy, sexually charged romance story? The Rules! This stand alone read is guaranteed to make you laugh, cry, and swoon. Get your kindles ready now! Lambo and Ainsley's story is one that you will not want to miss.

"Trust me. This is gonna be fun. For both of us."~Lambo

Ainsley is a complex character. She lives with her loving older brother Ryan and his girlfriend Natalie. Although Ains appears to have it all together, she is battling the demons of her past and lives with bipolar disorder. Ryan has done his best to keep Ainsley healthy and happy. Although her brother's love is significant in her life, she is missing a few important things! Ainsley needs sex, love and romance! What girl doesn't? Only one thing can truly fill the void in her life. Who cares if it's her older brother's best friend?



Lambo is a successful "All American" Sex God! He is confident, cocky, and quick witted. He has never had difficulty "sealing the deal".



While partying it up in college one night, he shares a kiss with a hot young party goer. She was just "that hot"! How was he supposed to know she was only sixteen AND Ryan's little sister? Obviously, that scenario did not end well! Over the next couple of years, he does everything in his power to avoid the little vixen. However, it's a difficult task when it's Ryan's little sister! After a few years have passed, Ainsley and Lambo will finally have the opportunity to try that scenario out again! When the whole gang travels to Vegas for a quick getaway, Ainsley and Lambo are brought together and all of "the rules" are broken!

"He was hot. He was an excellent kisser and finally, and perhaps most importantly, I was pretty sure he could close the deal."~Ainsley

Lambo and Ainsley don't waste any time rekindling the fire! The attraction that began years ago, at that college party, was only the catalyst to what promises to be a mind-blowing life altering experience for them both. These unlikely characters form a tender bond that begins with friendship, sensuality, and then transforms into love. The road to happiness is not a smooth ride for these two. However, it is full of humor and lasting love!

"Fuck, Ains, your pussy is like fucking magic or something."~Lambo

Told in dual POV, The Rules is a definite crowd pleaser. The characters are complex and well developed throughout the read. The weighty subject matter is craftily paired with humor and an over abundance of steam. I genuinely didn't know if I should laugh or cry and, at times, I found myself doing both! The Rules is a true delight!

"All I could think about was when I was going to see her again."~Lambo

What is most notable about the writing in this book is the easy flow of the text and the steady pacing of the plot. Additionally, I felt like the characterization was honest and consistent throughout. I was completely immersed in this story and I cannot wait to see what Ms. Brown does next!

"I don't think you get it. I need you more than you need me."~Lambo

Overall, The Rules is a must read. I thoroughly enjoyed every single second spent with these characters. Although I enjoyed The Lessons, Elizabeth Brown has truly made her mark with this book! I was simply blown away. This is a must read for contemporary romance lovers! Lambo and Ainsley's story will stay with me forever!

***Off-Limits Series***


★BETA copy graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review! Thank you Elizabeth for allowing me to join you on this journey. I am truly humbled and I will remember it always!★



For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 STARS
WARNING. Unpopular Opinion alert and plenty of spoilers to follow.
I typically try to abstain from any and all spoilers in my reviews, but it really can't be helped here. So if you don't want to know, please don't read. You've been warned.
Please remember...

And this is just mine. So do take this with a grain of salt. I'm the only one of my GR friends that didn't enjoy this. I'd suggest you read it and judge for yourself. That noted, let's move on to the review, shall we?

So...The Rules. This was my first book by this author and while I enjoyed her writing style, there were a few key points in the plot that were HUGE triggers for me personally. I absolutely hated the way that they were addressed and sadly that colored my entire perception of the book. As in I barely forced myself to finish it. Now maybe you're thinking I'm too picky. Maybe you're thinking it's something else

And maybe I am, and maybe I do. But allow me to break it down for you.

1. The hero
I had a really hard time taking him seriously. Typically I love me the manwhores, and Lambo was certainly that. But the man is in his early 30's but he talks like a 19 year old frat boy. It was too much. Only time a hero was able to pull off internal monologue like that was Drew from Tangled. This one, unfortunately, did nothing for me.

They call me Lambo, or Lam for short.
However, I guess if we're being accurate, they don't just say it- they moan it. Usually while my dick's in their mouth. And before you judge me, it's there because they were fucking begging for it.

Maybe it was the ridiculous name/nickname? I don't even know...

Most chicks wanted it in the back of a car or against the bathroom door, with me pulling on their hair and calling them a little slut as I doled out so many orgasms their brains practically dissolved into nothing.
That, friends, is how Lambo Christie rolls when it comes to sex.

2. The heroine.
Couldn't connect with her for the life of me.

3. The dialogue.

Fuck, Ains, who'd have thought Ryan's little sister had such oral talents?"

I'm sorry, but the woman just blew you and your first thought after that is to bring her brother's name up post coitus? Seriously?

Now aforementioned aside, I could have moved past all that. The book had a humorous and witty aspect to it in addition to the fluffy smut. But here was the kicker that ultimately completely ruined it for me...
The completely flippant and blasé matter that the author chose to handle sexual abuse and bipolar disorder.

Look, I don't mind reading that subject matter in books, so long as it's handled properly and not glossed over for the sake of the story. Allow me to explain.

The heroine is sexually abused by her father from the age of 5-12. She's in therapy, but her biggest concern is her vaginismus. (Yes that's a thing. I had to google it). Basically due to her remnants of the sexual abuse and the anxiety stemming from that, her vagina fists up tighter than a virgin's asshole whenever a peen gets within a 5 mi radius. She's desperate to fix herself of this and so she tries out one peen after another, hoping to find that one magical peen that will be the cure to her "issue". Now did you happen to get stuck on the sexual abuse thing? Because I sure did.

See the story begins with the heroine as a 16 year old, attending her brother's college graduation party. At said party, she sees one of her brother's friends that she knows. He doesn't recognize her. But the chemistry between them is so hot, it takes mere seconds for them to begin making out and for his hands to be up her skirt. Now let's go back to the fact that 1. She's freaking 16, and 2. The sexual abuse. *cue raised eyebrow*

The story itself takes place 8 years after this, but my bias already kicked in. The heroine has a sexual abuse past as a child and she's suffering from bipolar disorder. However, the completely blasé way that she describes all this was mind boggling to me.
heroine's internal monologue referring to her brother

He's always overestimated how sensitive and damaged I am, which is ironic, given that he doesn't even know the extent of anything with my dad. Nope, he thinks I'm this delicate suicidal flower, when really I just suffer from bad luck. Yes, I am bi-polar, but my meds keep it under control for the most part. He thinks I keep trying to kill myself, but nothing could be farther from the truth. I don't want to die.
Okay, maybe I did when I was younger. I say maybe because I honestly can't remember, I've blocked out so much. I know I used to cut. Lots of kids do, and they do it as a cry for help, for attention.

Pause here
Side note: Cutting for attention? Seriously? At this point my brain almost exploded. First of all, this is such a bigger issue than it's made to be because this is certainly not something kids do for attention. As a matter of fact, most times they go to great lengths to hide it. It's a way of finding relief for being unable to deal with internal pain. It's a cry for help, an internal one, but it sure as hell isn't one for attention. I volunteer with a group of sexual abuse victims and some of them dealt with depression but not one of them cut for attention. Not. One.
end pause

...I really don't think that's why I was doing it, though. I just...enjoyed the feeling. The rush that came with it. Marv and I have discussed it at length and decided it was probably related to the fact that I was on so many medications at the time. I felt clouded, numb, and I hate feeling like that. Cutting took all that away...

Marv is her therapist by the way. She also at one point says this in reference to him as she's discussing sex with Lambo during one of their "sessions"

Poor Marv. Despite our history, I could tell sex talk still made him a little uncomfortable. I guess I couldn't blame him, I mean, we'd known each other for so long, and he'd seen me grow up- it was almost like he was an uncle or something.

Hold up. Let's touch on this for a hot second here. Your therapist who you are seeing for bipolar disorder and sexual abuse in your past visibly shows discomfort while discussing sex. And he's more like your uncle because you've been seeing him for so long? With all due respect, what therapist worth his salt would allow himself to be seen as anything other than the professional that he is. And to be visibly uncomfortable discussing sex with a sexual abuse victim? Seriously?!

Now this is a hot button subject for me, because I was sexually assaulted as a child myself. So seeing this matter be glossed over in the way that it was just didn't sit right with me. I felt it had no place in a rom-com smutty read. And if it so happened that it did come up, then perhaps it should have been approached in a much different matter.

Did the heroine really need to have all those issues? Bipolar, sexual abuse, vaginismus. Not to mention the hero had some stuff from his past and then had a version of mommy dearest as the icing on top.

All of this was mostly approached as a "it happened but it's all good" sort of way. What kind of message does that send? This flippant way of handling sexual abuse like it's no big deal is making readers desensitized to the subject and that's not ok. A woman gets raped, molested, and then blinks and everything is all good? Just a little therapy cures everything? It's just something that happened to her? That it's just a regular occurrence for a female? I implore you, authors, to treat this with the respect that it truly deserves. Don't merely use it as a plot device to write a "damaged" heroine.

Clearly with my personal trigger at work here, I couldn't move past all this. I didn't appreciate the way it was handled and I certainly didn't buy it.

Would I read future books in this series? Perhaps. I don't like to judge an author based on one book alone, but I'd be lying if I said this book didn't already form a bias in my mind. I will give this series one more shot and see what happens.

ARC courtesy of author via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

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[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rules is book two in the Off Limits series by Elizabeth Brown. While I really enjoyed the first book in this series, The Lessons, I fell madly in love with this one. We met Ainsley Andrews, younger sister of Ryan from the first book. Now it’s her turn. This is a brother’s best friend romance told in dual point of views.

Ainsley Andrews is twenty four years old. She suffers from bi-polar disorder and also has a very painful past. All reasons her older brother, Ryan, is extremely protective of her! Ainsley has known Ryan’s best friend, Lambo, for years, and they’ve never gotten along since that first time they came face to face when she was sixteen. But an impromptu trip to Vegas with her brother and his friends, some airing out of feelings and everything changed.



Lambo Christie is thirty one years old and works for his family’s hotel empire. He and Ryan have been best friends since college. Over the years he and Ainsley could barely stand to be in the same room together. He always thought she hated him. But when they finally talked, they both realized they were wrong about the other. When Ainsley admitted she needed help with something, Lam was ready, willing and able to help. Because he always loved a good challenge. I just want to say here that being in Lam’s head was hilarious. This man is blessed with some pretty amazing assets and he knows it. He made me smile so big!

“Ainsley Andrews apparently was my kryptonite.”



As Ainsley and Lambo work together to resolve her issue, they both begin to enjoy the other more than they realized they would. Lam has lost interest in even looking at any other woman, something that has never happened before. All he can think about when they aren’t together is when he will see Ainsley next. But due to her brother’s extreme protectiveness, Ainsley insists her brother never know about them. At first, Lambo is fine with this. He’s breaking the bro-code, messing with his best friend’s little sister. But the more time he spends with Ainsley, the stronger his feelings grow, the more keeping her a secret just feels wrong.



This book was just wonderful. These two were adorable together. And the chemistry is scorching hot. While reading through what I wrote so far, I might have given this the impression it was angsty, but it was anything but that. It was fun and sexy and just wonderful. Ainsley’s bi-polar disorder was written so well. And Lambo, well, when this man falls, he falls hard.



If you want a steamy, swoony, sweet book that will also make you smile, this one is for you. And the ending was absolutely amazing. Now I can’t wait to read the last book, Ainsley’s best friend, Winnie’s story, The Mistakes.

“All I want is you. All of you. Only you.”

For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...

[NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books} · Rating 4 out of 5]

***4 "the Pu$$y whisperer" stars***



When i read the first book, everyone was saying to me that the second book was way much better...
I have to agree and to disagree with them at the same time...

Yep, i had a really good time while i was reading "The Rules" and in my opinion was funnier than "The Lessons" but for me the first book had a little bit better storyline....
No, don't get me wrong!!! I liked them both very much and i had a great time while i was reading them, but i liked different things in each one of them....


The only sure thing is that i loved fiercely both of the male protagonists...
They were so different between them, but i will love them forever...

I have already explain to you about Ryan and now, it's time to learn more about Lambo...
And of course, their Ainsley!!!!
Why theirs??? You will see!!!!

Well, we saw both Ainsley and Lambo in the first book...
Lambo was Ryan's best friend back from his college years and Ainsley was Ryan's sister!!!
His little sister that had been through hell and she had serious problems...

She is the only person that he adores more than his life and the one that he would protect with everything he had inside of him...
And how the things got complicated???

Well, Lam and Ain had a tiny history...

With lots of kissing and gropping, but then the truth had revealed and Lambo kept his hands and his d**k away from her...
Now, the years had passed and they seem to hate each other's guts...

But is that what is really happening here???

Lam is a manwhore... He loves all the women and he liked to spent time with all of them...

And Ainsley is the exact opposite... She is suffering from a illness that it's calling "vaginismus"...
Yep, guys!!! I'm serious!!! This thing is real.... and i had the same question as you!!!!
And yes, the women who are suffering from it, they can feel everything, they can orgasm but there is no penetration....
So, Ain was unlucky in that part, so she was still a virgin!!!!


A trip on Las Vegas with all the gang and Lam with Ain came a little bit closer... So Lam is taking it personally to help Ain with her problem...

But of course, because of Ryan, those efforts had to be a secret...
So, from there, a strange non-relation is starting with Lam to trying to cure Ain and to can not stay away from her at all.... And Ain to start feeling exactly the same...


"I’d signed up for casual sex, nothing more—and he was on board. Except that at some point, and I’m not sure exactly when, it became more than that for me. And maybe him. But I was the weak idiot who couldn’t handle it.
I was so fucking stupid."

So what will happen with those two???
Will they stick to their arrangement or there is more between them???
And what will happen when Ryan will found out about it??? How will he react????

And how Lambo will take Ainsley's problems???
Will he stay by her side??? Or will he run for the hills???

"Bet you didn’t think I’d be such a good fucking liar. Because that’s what I was. A fucking liar. Because I was not cool.
I was not okay with restrictions on what I could and could not say with her. And her insistence that what we had going was still casual. And I was definitely not okay with finding out all that shit about her dad."

Well, this couple was very enjoyable... When they were together they were so perfect, so funny....
I liked the way that Elizabeth Brown built their relationship...

The only thing that i didn't like so much was all those extended monologues that they were having inside their heads... In some point, i honestly thought that i didn't like the book...
But phew, thank God, i was wrong!!!!

“Ainsley. My cock’s had enough play dates. It likes you. It doesn’t want you playing around with other…cocks.”
“You really are nuts, aren’t you?”
“Don’t make Little Lam feel bad, Ains,”
She sighed. Audibly.
“So your cock wants to be exclusive? My pussy might be amenable to that.”

Ainsley was a really damaged girl...

She had an ugly past that she refused to revealed to anyone, even to her brother and she was such a closed person...
Her mood swings were making her flip all the time and i was so sorry about her.
But this girl was a true fighter... She wasn't giving up and i liked that!!!

Lambo made her smile and hope. He made her to trust another living being and that was something huge for her...

"Here was a perfect opportunity to—as Marv puts it let someone in, and I couldn’t even form a sentence. I squeezed my eyes shut. This. This is why I didn’t do this. This is why I didn’t let anyone in. Because one minute I was an emotionless robot, and the next I’d be a hot mess, falling to pieces and unable to cope. It was freaking embarrassing."

Lambo... Well, Lambo was such a beautiful character...
Yep, you 're probably wondering if i have lost my mind, but honestly this guy was an awesome person with a beautiful soul...

Yep, he was a womanizer, but he had values in his life... As his family for example and friends...
He was so honest character and i fuckin' love that...
And when he fell for Ain, he knew what he wanted and he was chasing after it...

Many men are putting their pride beyond anything else, but Lam wasn't hiding behind his finger and i really appreciated it.
I liked the way that he was handling Ain and their relationship...
I liked how he stayed beside her when she was needing him and he earned my absolute respect...


"You deserve someone who isn’t so fucked up, Lam.”
He shrugged. “Too bad, Ains. I’m sorry if it sounds crass, but I’ve been with lots of girls, enough to know what I want. You keep saying you’re fucked up, but what you aren’t hearing is that I don’t care. All I want is you. All of you. Only you.”

I would love to see another one book of this series and i honestly don't care for who would be that book, i just really want it!!!


***ARC kindly provided via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ainsley is Ryan’s sister and Lambo is Ryan’s best friend. That’s right, brother’s best friend - those magic words that get me so excited to start a book. Elizabeth sold this book to me with those few lines, but I was impressed to see this story is also more.

Ainsley and Lambo meet at Ryan and Lambo’s graduation, but Ainsley is only sixteen. While Lam and Ains have a hot make-out session luckily it doesn’t go any further once he learns her age. The story picks up eight years later right before they all leave to go to Vegas.



Ainsley is a damaged girl and my heart broke for her. I felt her pain and was sad to see how the abuse she stained as a child was still effecting her life today. After seeing all that she has survived I just wanted happiness for her.

Lambo is the wealthy playboy and I was really worried he would never be worthy of Ains. I wanted her to feel love, safety and be freed from her past. I fell for Lam when he fell for Ains. When he changed because she was worth it, because she was his more. These two together make me so happy!



I love brother’s best friend books, but this story is more. At first I was a little sad it was more, but the further I read the more engaged I became in the story. The more I read the more I felt for the characters. I signed up for a cute sweet story, but this story is more. Ainsley is damaged and has experienced so much, but Lam is up to the challenge. If you are looking for more, I highly recommend.

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

[XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alright folks, I'll start off by saying that at first, I didn't think I'd end up liking this book. Lambo's narrative starts out a lotta bit obnoxious and cocky. Then there's the many many problems Ainsley is dealing with. All very serious. One? Ok Two? Ok Three? All serious? -.- The narrative for Ains starts off immature to boot. I will say that what saves this book for me is the growth. The characters I rolled my eyes at in the beginning weren't the same ones that get their HEA. It was the moments that Lambo let his guard down and that Ains let him in that really sold me. I also gotta commend the author for the love scenes. Hot. Damn. They were good. Seriously. No... Seriously lol All in all a great follow up to the first story :)

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

[Sharon ∞❥ is an emotional book junkie ❥∞ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ★'s

Perfect...that's what Lambo was for Ainsley and I'm definitely shocked to say the least. Gone was the manwhore...there wasn't even a blimp on the radar for any other woman and that was truly impressive!

Lambo and Ainsley have a history where they shared some passionate kisses at his and Ainsley's brother's, Ryan, graduation party. Lambo had no idea she was Ryan' sister or that she was sixteen! Needless to say, things did not evolve from there.

Through the years, most people thought they kind of hated each other. They both made efforts to stay away from the other and at the same time wanting to be with the other one.

A trip to Vegas throws them together and Ainsley's able to see Lambo in a different light. It also helps that she's trying to find someone to help her with a little problem she's been having sexually. Who better to ask than a manwhore? And of course, he's all too willing.



I really loved getting both their POVs but especially Lambo's. It helped knowing what his intentions were and how crazy he was about her.

If you've read the first book, The Lessons, you know about some of the things Ainsley has had to deal with. She's manic depressive and has been hospitalized. We get to know the root of the problem and it's not pretty. This is always a hard topic to read and write about it and not everyone is going to be happy with it. I actually thought the author did a good job without the story getting too dragged down.

It was so great how much Lambo was there for her...seriously. It really showed how much he cared. And I loved how the author incorporated Jonesy, Lambo's dog, into the story and the connection between Jonesy and Ainsley was so sweet!

It was wonderful getting a lot of Ryan and Natalie and I enjoyed where their relationship is going. When the drama happens, it was hilarious how similar Ryan and Ainsley handled things and how Natalie and Ryan were helping each other out.

Lambo's family was quite interesting. I'm glad things turned around with his Mom and how Ainsley, Ryan and Natalie were welcomed into the fold.

I LOVED the video....that was so perfect! And the new addition was amazing.

Hopefully the next book will be about Winnie and possibly Pitch? Can't wait to find out!



Favorite quote:

♥ “You look like…fucking…banana bread.”

She cocked her head and squinted at me. “Banana bread? What the hell are you talking about, Christie? How much scotch have you had?”

I shrugged. “I really like banana bread.”


(Prior to review...)


eekkk...sooo excited for their story!!

[Alba and Her Secrets..♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 "Lam and His Numbers" Stars!
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.


Thank God I decided to continue reading this series, thank God! Yesterday I was left with bittersweet feelings because I did not enjoy The Lessons as much as I expected. But! I continued with the second book because I recieved the ARC and also because I was kind of curious about the characters of this story. And it was a great choice!

The Rules is the second installment in the Off Limits series by Elizabeth Brown and it tells the story of two characters that we already met in the first book because they are both related to its hero (Ryan Andrews). These are Lambo Christie (Ryan's best friend, super wealthy and hot playboy and the heroine's crush since she was sixteen) and Ainsley Andrews (Ryan's off limits sister, a girl who still suffers the consequences of a difficult childhood and now a woman who finds herself, again, atracted to Lam's charms).

“You’re going to be my personal project, Ainsley Andrews.”
“Is that so?”
“Mhm.”
“You just can’t stand the fact that you weren’t able to seal the deal, can you?”
“Something like that,” he murmured.

As with The Lessons I have no complains on Elizabeth's writing: I love it and it flows greatly with the story. Also, this novel gave me what I missed in the other story: connection with the characters. At first I was afraid because I felt that Ainsley would be like Natalie (the heroine of The Lessons) but she is not! She is definitely different and complex, she suffers from bipolar depression and well it's completely understandable after knowing what happened with her parents, especially her father. I loved how she overcomes that, how she deals with it and also how she still is able to make fun of it. Obviously, this book does not disappoint in the funny department. There are so many laughable scenes (thank you Ains, Lam and Winnie! LOL)!!

“I don’t know if that makes sense, Win.”
“It’s science.”
“Not quite.”
“E equals come see my vagina squared.”
I pressed my lips together and shook my head. “That’s not a thing, Win.”
“Pi equals three points for 69,”
“Are you sure you graduated from high school?”

“Ainsley. My cock’s had enough play dates. It likes you. It doesn’t want you playing around with other…cocks.”
“You really are nuts, aren’t you?”
“Don’t make Little Lam feel bad, Ains,”

I was literally laughing out loud! Winnie and Lam are crazy funny, loved them! And related to that, let me talk about my favourite thing about this book and that is Lambo Christie. While reading this and especially towards the ending (when he discovered the whole truth about Ains) Lam became the sweetest, hottest and most amazing hero. He starts feeling so much for Ainsley and he does not want to keep their relationship a secret anymore. That's the only thing that frustrated me about the heroine, she was so afraid to tell people about them, especially Ryan! Come on, Ains! However, going back to Lam, can I just repeat that I loved him? He is such a hottie (the sex scenes, holy shit!) and THAT LAST CHAPTER! OMG, the whole thing with the video.. it freaking got me! That was the cutest, sweetest, most thoughtful thing ever!

“You keep saying you’re fucked up, but what you aren’t hearing is that I don’t care. All I want is you. All of you. Only you.” He rested his forehead against mine. “I love you, Ainsley Andrews.”
I swallowed.
“I love you, too.”

“Ains, I’m here because I care about you. I’m here because I haven’t seen you in days. And now that I know you are not okay, I’m not leaving you alone. Do you understand me? I’m never going to leave.”

So I am so happy to say that I really enjoyed this story. Therefore, my rating for The Rules is 4.5 STARS because I loved the characters and their chemistry, the writing and the super hot and funny scenes and also the ending! I cannot wait for the next story! If you read The Lessons and you want a better version (in my opinion) with very likeable characters, please check out this novel I totally recommend it! :)

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[Christie«SHBBblogger» · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: The Rules
Series: Off-Limits #2
Author: Elizabeth Brown
Release date: February 2, 2016
Cliffhanger: No
HEAYes



The Rules is a lighthearted, fast and easy adventure through a manwhore's loss of his hit it and quit it lifestyle. It's told in alternating POV, so not only do we get the funny inner thoughts of the ultimate ladies man, we also get Ainsley's side of the story which I feel gave the book a better balance had it just been the male POV.

If you're a fan of the brother's best friend trope, or the shameless manwhore brought down by an unlikely love, you'll find a lot to enjoy here. I picked this book up as I was recovering from the flu, and I'm so glad I did. It was infused with plenty of sexy times and humor to keep me entertained when I really needed it. This book not only gave me unlimited smiles, but when I wasn't wanting to smack Lambo for his over sexed thoughts, I was being charmed against my will. He is most definitely the best kind of redeemable man ho. I dare you to not full out love him by the end. He's conceited, selfish, and self-centered. Yet, his audacity is nothing short of laugh-worthy.

I kept my briefs on, because as you may remember, I looked fucking good in them. Have I mentioned that sometimes, when chicks think I'm sleeping, I catch them taking selfies with my ass in nothing but these babies?

Just when I thought he couldn't surprise me, he'd come out with a one-liner that would have me laughing out loud. The man had confidence in spades, I'll give him that.

"Oh my God, you are such a stalker."
"I think I'd prefer the term pussy-whisperer, sweetheart."

Even though he's completely full of himself, he never once treats her with disrespect or acts like an asshole. I really liked that underneath all that bluster, he was just a good guy who discovered that his feelings for his best friend's sister went deeper than he ever thought.

After a disastrous fumble one night when she was underage, they both steered clear of one another...until Vegas happened. Suddenly, truths come out and nothing is as it seemed before. The attraction that was stifled years ago suddenly is brought right back to the surface. But is Lambo willing to break his best friend's trust and pursue his feelings her Ainsley?

There's a lot more to this story than simply the brother's best friend storyline. Ainsley has sexual issues that stem from childhood abuse that Lambo is more than happy to work out with her. Even though the condition was a real and serious matter, it was quite an unusual one and the way it was addressed felt lighthearted rather than dark or depressing. I do think her bipolar depression was skimmed over and could have been more developed, but I'm probably more picky than others when it comes to that. Depression has affected my family for the majority of my life, so I know how debilitating it can be. But again, not everyone is going to be as critical as me on the subject.

What I loved was seeing Lambo's slow descent into love. It didn't feel rushed or unnatural. They evolved from a sexual relationship with no labels, to exclusive in secret, to more. It felt like a reasonable progression in their feelings, and there was definitely no insta-love. He had a soft heart underneath that sexy outer package and I loved seeing how accepting he was of her, and how he supported her even when she wasn't feeling capable of holding everything all together. He loved her, just as she was.

"You keep saying you're fucked up, but what you aren't hearing is that I don't care. All I want is you. All of you. Only you."
He rested his forehead against mine.
"I love you, Ainsley Andrews."

If you're looking for something that will make you smile and keep you turning the pages in delight, look no further. Lambo was sweet, sexy, and devilish all rolled into one irresistible package. Ainsley was a somewhat inexperienced librarian who learns to let her hair down, and isn't afraid to keep this man in line who's used to always getting his way. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a light and enchanting read to make them laugh. I think Elizabeth Brown has a new follower in me, I'm looking forward to seeing what she gives us next.

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[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*

Lambo is so hot luv him



Ainsley an Lambo have know each other for a while Lambo is the best friend of Ainsley brother Ryan she had a smooch an a lil grope with Lambo at Ryan's graduation but he didn't know how she was at the time he thought she was so gorgeous an Lambo bein Lambo he had to have her but now yrs have gone by Ye they still see each other but they think that they don't like each other when actually they fancy the pants of each other so when a trip to Vegas come they r goin to have to sort things out



Ainsley asnt had the best of lives she as to deal with bipolar disorder an her past with her family hasn't been great actually it was totally shit but she still as Ryan how will do another for her an is super protective of her an will let no harm her in any way but Ainsley is a very strong woman Ye she as had a really hard time but she fights every day to have a better life even when she is still fighting against so many things but when Lambo wants to help she can't resist the offer



Lambo is your typical jock manwhore luvs living life to the max as a great job family an friends but the only woman he can't get out of his Ainsley after the lil taste he got he wants more but things r not that simple Lambo is willing to fight he want more of that woman an he will fight whatever is in the way



I did enjoy this book I thought is was written really good with the things brought up some things r quite delicate but it was done in great taste an this is why I gave it 4 stars I did find the story a lil slow in the middle but it did pick up an I did like the characters they were hot together an super cute they r great Lambo is super sexy an Ainsley just doesn't know gorgeous she is after what she as been through I found my emotions al over the place in this in parts I laughed near cried I was happy sad but it just adds to the story I did enjoy the story overall xxx

[Rheeza · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off,

I NEED TO WIPE THIS STUPID GRIN OFF MY FACE!



But I can’t! This book left me feeling warm and good inside. It was filled with humor, sexy times, heartbreaking sadness and uplifting hope. I LOVED IT!!

The Rules is the second installment in the Off Limits series. It’s about Ainsley Andrews who we already met in the first book. She still suffers the mental consequences of a difficult childhood but it doesn’t mean she will stop from finding the right man who can fix her “problem” even if that man turns out to be his brother’s best friend, Lambo Christie. Lambo is a hot playboy who despite feeling guilty for being attracted to her, he is determined to 'fix that problem' for her, and ohhh boy what follows is a funny, sexy and fascinating tale!



I loved Ainsely and Lambo! They are both complex characters and really well developed throughout the book. Their connection felt real and it was heart AND panty melting. I TOTALLY ROOT FOR THEM! Their romance made me grin, swoon, laughed and yes I even got misty eyed. They’re now one of my top favorite couples of all time!

"I love you because, well, I can't not love you."

While on first glance it appears that this story is just a lighthearted fluffy piece about a manwhore falling in love with his best friend’s younger sister, there are actually a delicate and sensitive subjects and quite a lot of important real life hard stuff in there too.  I loved that Ms. Brown was able to balance the tone of the book which is humorous with the serious issues without trivializing it. 

Overall, I enjoyed the dual POV and seeing Lambo matures and steps up to be there for Ainsley when she’s overcoming her issues. The Rule is a story easily devoured. Great dialogues, lovable characters and delicious romance made this book irresistible. If you are looking for a story with lots of laugh, heart, sexiness and forbidden love this story is for you!

----------------------------------
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[Elizabeth Brown]

★★★★★★
Oh heeey!!
This one almost never goes on sale but right now you can grab it for 99c!
★★★★★★
http://amzn.to/2apxfXB
★★★★★★
-----

[Wendy'sThoughts]

Took the Test
Back in the day when I was in school, you would find a teacher you liked and would sign up for another class they were teaching...anticipating a repeat of loving the course. Sometimes it worked just like that...and then sometimes it didn't.

This was an experience of the teacher missing the mark...for me.
Here's hoping the next semester of learning turns out better with a new subject...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Hey, I learned my Lessons....
So I would say I am ready for

The Rules (Off Limits, #2)....

I even have my Binder filled with paper, ready to take notes...
I will just have to wait till the semester starts February 2016...

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed The Lessons and fell a little bit in lust with Lambo, so I was excited to read The Rules, but I had no idea I was going to love it so friggin much. Wow. Funny, sexy and a romance that will make you swoon. Lambo... Where do I start? Such a lovable ass. His thoughts cracked me up. There is nothing better than watching a player fall and fall HARD. Ainsley was a great h very likable and not the least bit annoying in any way. I have one last bit to say, but I'm going to put it in spoiler tags because while not a huge spoiler (this is a romance with a HEA, after all) it does spoil just a little so please read at your own risk for it happens near the end of the book. Best marriage proposal ever!! Loved it so much, I reread it twice Thank you, Ms. Brown, for such an enjoyable read.

[Vasiliki · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

ARC kindly provided by the author via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.

This is the story of Lambo and Ainsley! A story about old-brother's-best-friend love! A kind of forbidden love! I have to say that I really liked this book! The plot was moving fast and the story was interesting. The best part of the book was the writting. Ms. Brown wrote this book from a dual POV but it felt like Lambo and Ainsley were speaking directly to me and not to themselves! Their comments and thoughts were brilliant, funny and to the point.

Ainsley is one of the strongest heroines I've read about. She has been through hell and she is still standing and fighting every day for herself. I really love her! Although she doesn't think so herself, she is quite balanced! I mean as balanced as she can be taking everything into consideration.

Lam is amazing! One of my favorite book-boyfriends! Although I never fall for the manwhore kind of men, Lam was the exception! I love him! Lam is attentive, honest, funny and a real guy! His POV chapters were so honest about the way that guys are thinking about that it was really enlightening!

The connection among Ainsley and Lambo was beautiful and perfectly balanced!

The end of the book was also really nice! It was kind of expected but really nicely done! I have to confess that this book also remind me how it feels to fall in love without being too sweet or too cheesy!

I definitely recommend The Rules to everyone who loves to read a funny, honest love-story!

[NMmomof4 · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Overall Opinion: I felt like this was better than "just ok" 3 stars, but not quite a full "I liked it" 4 stars -- so I'm going to go in the middle with 3.5. I liked the characters and I felt their connection, but I still felt like something was missing. Even though we do address some heavy subjects when we get some history on these characters, I felt like we didn't get as deep into them as we could've. I enjoyed it. It just won't go down as all that memorable or on my favorites shelf.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ainsley and Lam's story. They meet on the night of Lam's college graduation party, and things heat up. Lam is then shocked to find out that she is his best-friends 16 year old sister! 8 years (and many awkward and avoiding situations) later, they are together in Vegas with her brother. Ainsley is in major need of an experienced lover to help with her issues with sex, and she thinks Lam just might be the right guy. They start a physical relationship that follows them home from Vegas, but of course other feelings start to develop. There are some sexy times, some sweet moments, some family drama, and some sad times...but the couple get their HEA ending.

POV: This alternated between Ainsley and Lam's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never felt the need to skim, and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: No. Instalust and attraction for sure, but stronger feelings take a little while to develop (but the story does take place in just months).

H rating: 4 stars. Lam. He was a stereotypical manwhore that was drastically changed when it came to the h. He was so sweet with her, and even though he had a lot more sexual history than her I felt like it was exactly that -- history.

h rating: 4 stars. Ainsley. She had some major things against her, but she was strong and worked through them all the best she could. She was likable.

Sadness level: Low. I felt bad for the h and her past traumas and what she was currently struggling with (see "triggers" spoiler), but I never felt the need to cry.

Heat level: Moderate. They have some good chemistry and sex scenes.

Descriptive sex: Yes

Safe sex: Yes. Condoms were being used until they have a birth control/std status talk.

OW/OM drama: No! None at all.

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Possible Triggers: Yes Mental illness - h is Bipolar and has Vaginismus because of her past trauma; Child abuse - h was sexually molested by her father; Violent Trauma - the h's dad killed her mom

Closure: This had some good closure with a cute epilogue, and what I would call a HEA ending.

How I got it: It was part of my scribed subscription.

Safety: Safe

- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does Not have the H/h pushing away
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does have a HEA ending.

[Mira · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 'Spooning' Stars

When you’re a guy, the rules are simple. Live by the Bro Code:
Rule #1: Always have his back.
Rule #2: Don’t ever leave him stranded.
Rule #3: And never, ever, touch his sister.
Aw hell, two out of three ain’t bad.



Firstly I'll start by saying that I didn't love the book, but I did like it very much. I liked that it was written in both characters' point of view, I found that by reading Lambo's thoughts, it really helped me see how he changes from a playboy to something different. I haven't read the first book, however that didn't stop me from enjoying this one as much as I did.

The story contained a lot of humour, which I loved. Ainsley and Winnie (her best friend) are both so funny, its what made this story appeal to me even more. Ainsley and Lambo's inner thoughts would make, without any doubt, any reader chuckle.

"Dickhead," I muttered, under my breath.
"Dickhead? You wound me, sweetheart."

Ainsley, Ryan's younger sister, meets Lambo again, who is Ryan's bestfriend, after years when she gets dragged to Vegas for a weekend. The story however also takes the reader back in time, when Ainsley and Lambo first meet at Ryan and Lambo's college graduation when she was just 16.
Now she's 24 and has a little 'problem', Lambo, however, is determined to 'fix that problem' for her, and ohhh boy she canNOT resist.

"Yes, the RTF signals were off the charts,..."

And at this point I was like:


I really don't want to spoil it for anyone, therefore Imma stop here. Just know that there is no cliffhanger so readers jump into this one, it was truly an entertaining story.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Refresher:
Although this can be read as a standalone – The Rules is the second book in the Off-Limits Series. Book one was The Lessons and featured Natalie & Ryan. In The Lessons we meet Ainsley (Ryan’s troubled little sister) and Lambo (Ryan’s best friend). I do recommend that you read these in order to get the full effect and complete spoiler free story.

Ainsley has tried everything to get over her issues with intimacy. EVERYTHING. But nothing seems to work. Now, twenty-four years old, it seems the only man that can get her motor running is her brother’s best friend. A strictly off-limits guy that stole her breath when she was just sixteen.

A weekend trip to Vegas turns out to be much more eye opening when she reveals her issues to Lambo who is more than willing to give it the old college try. What starts off as just a means to an end turns into so much more as these two quickly become addicted to one another.

Although Ainsley struggles with some pretty complex and dark issues – this book remained somewhat light and had some rom-com feels. The dynamic between Ains and Lam was flirty and intense. I loved how all in he was – I absolutely love when the man-whore finds his girl and is ready to jump right into a relationship.

There is also just a touch of drama that unfolds. The concerns they had about Ryan’s feelings about their relationship – the patience that was needed with her issues with depression. It all just worked together so well without making the story too complex. I loved that I was able to laugh through most of this story. Both characters had their own traits that I adored.

If you are a fan of rom-coms but want them to hold a bit more substance than just a few sexy laughs, this is the book for you. I know for me personally I need more than just funny lines in story to make me fall in love with it and this one had the perfect balance of humor and emotions that made me connect to both characters.

[Chris C - A Midlife Wife · Rating 4 out of 5]

First book I read by this author was The Lessons so when I saw that she had another book out called The Rules you know I had to go pick that one up. Just the name alone lets you know that this is going to be one sexy read and I was not wrong.

Okay, where to even start with this. When you take one manwhore and align him with one librarian with major issues about sex, who happens to be your best friend's sister, you have the basis for a story that is going to wrap you up and suck you right in.

Full of heart-stopping moments, this hot story has a lot of humorous moments and plenty of serious ones too. The female lead has many issues that need to be addressed and can actually be a trigger for some that may have issues with rape, abuse or depression. I did love how Lambo, aka sex-on-a-stick, supported her, however. So sweet and loving, even for a manwhore!

The author has an awesome talent for writing a story that will not let you go. Full of delicious, scorching scenes that will make you turn those pages as fast as you can! I cannot wait for more from Elizabeth Brown! I love her writing!!

[T.S. Pagan · Rating 1 out of 5]

Rape vs. Romance
I’m going to rant about something that’s been bothering me for a while.
For the last few years I’m noticing a really big increase on female characters who are rape victims; which for the most part, I’m okay with it, if it wasn’t for the fact that it appears that’s more of an excuse for every character flaw. When was it that rape became an excuse?
It’s come to the point where I think we are becoming a little desensitized to rape. I mean, seriously, the girl goes through one of the worst experiences a person can go through and she’s suddenly healed by love and good sex? Yep, I don’t think so. Despite what Marvin Gaye might say, we don't always need some sexual healing.
I won’t ever think that rape should be used in a romantic comedy because there’s absolutely no way to lighten something like this. It’s serious and awful and heartbreaking. (And what's up with most of the rapists getting away with it?)
Now, it appears that every female character who is afraid of intimacy or doesn’t like partying or have commitment issues are rape victims.
I mean, maybe she’s afraid of sex because of all those sex ed classes where they show a bunch of diseased genitalia pictures and all the ways protection might fail you. So, even though you know it's not rational you get the feeling that you should be celibate until you’re either ready to have kids or die from STD. That’s a true fear, right there.
Maybe she doesn’t like partying because she reads the news and knows how bad things happens to good people (not every teen thinks they are invincible) or perhaps she would just rather drink at home with her closest friends where she can have good conversations without all the yelling and the vomiting. Not everyone likes loud noises and body heat.
And maybe, just maybe she also doesn’t want commitment because she knows the statistics and she knows that nearly 70% of all femicides are committed by the respective husbands/boyfriend. And even if she were an optimist who thinks she won’t be one of the murdered ones, there’s still a 53% chance that it will end in divorce. And going against numbers like this is just being irresponsible, right?
Plus, there’s also the chance that she’s just sick of comforting her friend’s broken hearts to be able to trust any guy. Maybe she just don’t want the headache or the humiliation. She’s just too proud.
See? Lot’s of day by day reasons on why your character might have these minor flaws to overcome with love and good sex. It doesn’t have to be rape! This is not Greek mythology where a wedding only happens when a male (god or human) kidnaps a female; and if the female actually wants to get married to someone she ends up dead (because women are apparently not allowed to want anything).
So please, dear contemporary romance writers, stop raping your characters! Let's evolve from this! Let's let women's opinion on sex and love and life be their own choice and not always a consequence from something a man did.
And when you do this, it's not only incredible offensive to rape victims, since it stigmatizes then, but It's also ignoring or downplaying other issues, common issues, that everyday people also have.

So, next time you want to write about abuse, think "Does my character really need to have this in his/her past, or can his/her actions be explained in a much easier light? Why do I want to talk about this? What message am I trying to send? How would people who have gone through this see my story? How would they feel? Is this really what I want?"

BTW, now, every time I read a book where a rape victim gets cured by a magic dick, I'll put these song in the review:
https://youtu.be/rjlSiASsUIs


****UPDATE****
I just thought of another way to think about your story before you write.

Let's say Mary had a little lamb. But this was a very bad lamb and one day, when she was taking him for a nice walk through the farm, he hurt her really bad. Now Mary is traumatized and afraid of all the lambs, until one day she sees a very beautiful lamb who likes to spread his love around. Mary looks at that cute lamb and feels something she hadn't felt in a very long time: The desire to pet a lamb. So she goes to this beautiful lamb, cautious and anxious at the same time and she pets him! And his fur is curly and soft and he's cute as hell and she loves it! She wants him for herself, but will the lamb want to go with her to the farm? Or will he prefer to live in the wild? She starts to go to the farm alone, and as it turns out, the lamb follows her! And they turn in to best friends and live happily ever after.

See? Now, that's a cute story. The solution matches the problem.
Now let's change a few things in this story...

Mary was raped. Now Mary is traumatized and afraid of physical intimacy (because apparently that's the only result after something like this: fear. Never angry or homicidal or revengeful. Just fear.), until one day she sees a man who is very promiscuous and likes to fuck everything with a skirt and treats women like they're disposable. Mary looks at that hot piece of ass and think "Hey, I think sex with that manwhore will make everything better for me again. Because that's what I need: A man to fix what another man broke." (Mary doesn't know she's a person and not a object. That people get hurt and objects gets broken. Hurts can be healed and scars becomes both an individual mark and strength. Broken pieces can be glued together but they are still broken. Scars makes you stronger, broken makes you worthless)
So, that man, of course, wants to tap sweet Mary's ass, and it's good. Really good. They become addicted (another word authors like to throw so freely out there to describe lust) to each other's body. Neither Mary nor the man can explain why it's so different with the other. (That's probably because there's no good explanation other than divine stuff, since the story wasn't well developed and the characters are more and more unrealistic with their reasons and behavior).
Anyway, neither wants the sex fest to end, but they're afraid to commit because... Even though he's happier now than when he was playing the field he has these preconceived notions that more notches under your belt = more power, happiness and admiration. She knows he's a narcissistic immature man-sized child who never really left the adolescent stage of his psychosocial development, so of course, she's sad and worried, and expecting the worst outcome, but still deep down hoping against hope that she'll be special and heal his narcissistic ways just like he healed her trauma: with sex. It doesn't. She leaves and just like Bieber, he realizes he misses more than just her body, and he's sorry and goes after her, they get married and live happily ever after.
Moral: Rape trauma can be cured by magic peen, but an asshole needs a little more TLC to get their head straight.

Can you see now how in this version the solution does not match the problem?

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.

It's official! I'm an Elizabeth Brown fan! This is the second book I have read from E Brown and I have loved both of them! Her stories are unique. I mean, The Lessons is about a 30 year old Virgin going to a sex sarrogate. Right??? And The Rules is about a girl that suffers from Vaginismus. How crazy of a story line can you get and yet the author did such a good job she totally sold me on both!

I loved The Lessons but I loved The Rules even more. You have a total playboy who takes on the challenge of healing Ainsley of her Vaginismus condition. At first Lambo is kinda of a pig and I worried I wouldn't be able to stand him but the more I read, the more I just can't help but fall for him as he falls for Ainsley. You get to see him show he is more than just a playboy. And Ainsley, man that poor girl, she's had a pretty shitty life and it was awesome to see her get her HEA. Just a little warning...There is some heavy subjects in the book due to Ainsley's past but this is such a great read!

[Mercedes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lambo totally stole my heart in this story, I knew I'd like him from the brief glimpse we had in The Lessons but I didn't think I'd like him more than I liked Ryan...I did. Lambo and Ainsley were so amazing together, I truly loved their story. They both developed a lot over the course of the book and learned to rely on one another and to trust one another.

You look like...fucking...banana bread.

Ainsley was such a strong heroine. She had a lot of shit going on and she handled it all really well, she didn't let her psychological diagnosis cripple her she continued to live her life how she wanted to the best of her ability. Her strength becomes even more apparent when we learn about her family history. She's had a tough life and she manages to remain positive. I love that she enlists the help of Lambo, she's always been attracted to him and she uses the attraction to her benefit.

I've often thought that even paper-cuts could kill you, if you got enough of them.

Lambo started out as the fun loving man-whore who you can't help but love. His character slowly developed. With small gestures and words Lambo became someone Ainsley could count on and could confide in. I loved Lambo, he was funny, charming, successful, loving, considerate, hot, pretty much everything you could want in a hero (or BBF). I think his love for Ains was always sort of there it just never had a chance to come to fruition. I felt for him that he had to keep something so huge from his best friend but I was glad when they worked through their problems.

I love my family because they're blood, Ains. But you, I love you because, well, I can't not love you.

One thing I totally loved about Lambo (or Elizabeth's writing) was when Lambo broke the fourth wall (is that what it's called in books too?). He was aware that he was in a story and he would talk directly to the reader at times.

**I received an ARC from the author and I've repaid her with my unparalleled love of Lambo. Oh, and this totally honest review :)

[My Pink Fairytales · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I’m not religious, but: Sweet Jesus Mother-of-Mary.”

Yep, that should do it. THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING! Ten times better than the first one in the series and I really liked that one.
In case you missed it, The Lessons was about Ryan and Natalie. Ryan’s baby sister, Ainsley and Ryan’s best friend, Lambo Christie are getting together in this one.

Things are quite simple:
Ainsley is 24-year-old and suffers from vaginismus, which means she’s basically a virgin because nothing can go in. Nada. Zip. No man has been able to break in.
Lambo is 31 and a manwhore. Full of himself (but with good reason) takes Ainsley’s problem as a challenge and there we have it. He’s basically a Ryan without a PhD.
Things are more complex than that, but I like keeping things short and simple for you, to have the pleasure of discovering them as you read it by yourself. So don’t worry, this book is million miles away from being shallow.

Why is this so great, you ask? Because:

1. Elizabeth Brown has her way of connecting with her readers. Meaning that all her characters so far (I’ve only read two of her books) are speaking directly to us, like our long time friends. I love this.

2. Lambo. He might be a manwhore, but:
“Oh hell, who was I kidding. I wanted to try. I was a sucker for that manwhore just like every other girl in this planet.”
He’s also charming, funny, too honest and having him whisper dirty sexy things could make your “knee caps to evaporate” (Natalie was saying this about Ryan in The Lessons).
“Jock boy in glasses. My mind practically short-circuited from the hotness paradox.”

3. Having complex characters, who aren’t just rolling-on-the-floor-funny types or horny 90% of the time, but they deal with super serious issues like abuse, depression, mental illnesses. That’s big, admit it. In my opinion Elizabeth Brown does a wonderful job combining all these together. You really have to be an amazing writer to pull off a book like this.

4. Vaginismus. Really Ms. Brown? :) Indefinite number of points for being this creative.

5. The whole thing with Lambo’s real name. I think I forgot to mention this. Lambo’s just a nickname and trust me, you can’t guess where does it come from or what’s his real name. I loved the mystery around this.

6. Ainsley’s name. Something different. Something else. Cool!

7. Inner monologues. Babbling on both parts. I could also add here their banter.

8. The End. OH! MY! GOOD! I don’t want to spoil it for you so I won’t say anything else, but this was one of the best of the best possible marriage proposals in the whole world.


This book is just 2.99$ on Amazon. It’s a pity to leave it there, trust me. It’s worth much more and you’d be a fool not to read it. In the end, Elizabeth Brown says: “Post a review or tell a friend and I’ll send you all sorts of karmic goodness.”, so I’m waiting for mine. :)

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 I think I'd prefer the term pussy-whisperer, sweetheart stars. Lam and Ainsley were passionate, quirky, entertaining and so much fun to fall in love with and watch fall in love. The first time the couple meet is at her brother's college graduation party because Lam's her brother's good friend and frat brother. Ever since that meeting there's been tension between them but neither one realizes that the other doesn't hate them but want them.

Ainsley's got her own issues which is the reason her brother is so protective of her. She's working at the library and trying to get her life together when Lam literally bulldozes in while they are in Las Vegas. One night of passion and an unintentional challenge leads her down an unforgettable path with Lam. I mean, he's gorgeous, rich confident and an orgasm deliver so what is the worst that could happen, right?

Lam's living "the good life" with different gorgeous women filling his bed, a great job, more money than he could ever imagine and great friends. What's missing from his life? Well, a consistent partner and love but what bachelor needs that? Lam finds outs what he's missing when he begins dating Ainsley.

Ainsley doesn't want to get too close to Lam because she thinks it is best if the relationship is kept at just physical. The problem with that logic? Well, Lam blows it the hell up when he demands time together, going out on dates and forcing her hand by telling her they are together. Without meaning to, the two fall in love and become dependent upon one another. Their love is a natural progression between two people who have incredible chemistry and passion mixed with personalities that compliment each other. They fill the missing pieces and bring out the best in each other.

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't like Lam for maybe the first 60% of this book. I didn't like his internal monologue that although at times was funny, it was also a little annoying especially the fact that he was a major manwhore previously and it's mentioned frequently- that's just not my thing - he does not hook up with any OW at all during this book but I just didn't like all the mentions of his past but it's more of my own personal preferences. Anyways, I wasn't feeling Lam but then some things happen and wow, I just adored the man he became. Here's the thing that really got me -when you deal with someone who has issues like severe depression or being bipolar, you know that there are highs and lows. The highs can be great but the lows can get really low. It's not always sunshine and roses. Anything can trigger episodes and it takes someone special to stand with that person and stay with them through it, to not walk away when things get hard. The way Lam handled Ainsley's lows was amazing, swoony, touching, beautiful and a bunch of other things. The last 30% or so of this book Lam was the perfect book boyfriend. Although this book deals with a lot of heart breaking issues, there was a good amount of humor and a really beautiful romance. Plus, I really loved getting a little more Natalie and Ryan.

[Raine · Rating 5 out of 5]

****ARC was provided by author Elizabeth Brown via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.****

I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!!! I thought this one wasn't going to be as good as the first book, but it was even better! I was a little uncertain because Ainsley (her brother Ryan was the MC in the first book) seemed a bit too emotionally distraught and mentally unstable which is why I initially hesitated to read this book. I did notice that this book was listed as being funny and I thought, how is that possible with the issues this poor girl faced, what with her father shooting her mother and then himself. But it was funny right from the beginning even though there were some pretty substantial issues discussed in this book.

Right away, Lambo became my favorite funny-boy, cocky-hunk book boyfriend. Reading his thoughts was hilarious and I'm sure that's how most guys feel and think. I loved that he had money and flaunted it for the people he loved. He just wanted to have fun with this friends and enjoy life with them, but never with that entitled arrogance some other MCs in other billionaire romances I read (though sometimes that is hot too!). I can't really say that Lambo is an alpha male (and I absolutely love to read those!) - he's sweet and considerate with a little bit of cocky and though he isn't a pushover I think he is written in a way that doesn't make him seem weak or too sensitive.

Ainsley I thought was a great character. Really strong for all she went through, but she definitely had some issues she was dealing with from her childhood. Issues that even her brother doesn't even know about. Going into the book after reading the first book, I thought this girl was going to be all angsty and dramatic, but she really wasn't like that. Even with her depressive episode, my heart went out to her, but she was sad and dealt with it and, of course, Lambo was wonderful.

I'm just a little sad that a 3rd book of the series is not yet out. I can't wait to read who is next. I hope it is Winnie and Pitch. But in the meantime I will be checking out Ms. Brown's other titles so I have something to do while I wait for the next book.

[Briana · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Reread 2018. I thought this was still a delight to read. I love these characters, and I’m excited to read the next book*

Oh this second addition to the Off-Limits series was actually better than the first book!

I felt this second book in the series was more entertaining, and definitely more erotic. It was just so good! So a big thank you to the author for writing Ains and Lam's story. This was written wonderfully.

First off, the characters again MADE this story. I love how throughout every event that went on in this book, there was humor and laughter. The story kept my attention, but the characters were written so well I didn't even need the story to back it up. (Crazy right! But so true!)

The plot was thought out and written very well. Now I would have loved to read how Ainsley got to know Lam's real name!? While reading this book I was just so excited to find out his name and what Ainsley had to do to get it. Ugh. But it was still wonderful! ;D

Great writing, plot, and characters. I give this a full 5 stars!

**ARC provided to me by Netgalley for an honest review**

[Carlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC received via Netgalley.

The Rules is book two in the Off-Limits series, in this book we see Ainsley, Ryan's little sister, meeting Lambo at his and Ryan's graduation. She's all purple haired and adult looking at 16 and in that moment she becomes untouchable. Lambo knows best-friend guy code, especially when it comes to sisters. Now an adult, Ainsley is still closed off and Lambo, well he's always thought she hated him. Spending time together is inevitable though, especially when they go on a joint trip to Vegas with Ryan and his girlfriend. What unfolds is a forbidden fling of epic proportions and Ainsley is too blinded by him being her brother's friend to realize all her worst fears never came true, in fact it was the exact opposite.

Oh Ainsley, this girl has had life thrown at her in the worst ways and I felt for her completely. To some readers it may seem she has every cliche problem the author could give her, but the reality is that most of Ainsley's life could easily be real life for anyone. I connected to her instantly, her past breaking my heart and her hard wall something I wanted to break down. She was intriguing, funny, and genuinely a fun character POV to read. Then there's Lambo, cocky and defiant, his POV a bit outrageous. I didn't expect to like him, but like he did to Ainsley, he broke down all my pre-conceived notions about him. He may have been wealthy and spoiled, but he was also understanding and compassionate, two things I didn't guess him to be. The chemistry between these two certainly never died down and the rekindling, as well as how they dealt with Ainsley's little situation, was super fun and funny to read. The rules of bro-code are certainly broken in this book, but as Ainsley and Lambo explore their relationship, and lean on one another for support, it all seems worth it in the end. I really liked how overprotective Ryan was as a brother, because we saw a different side to him with Natalie. I also really have to hand it to Elizabeth Brown, because working through Ryan and Ainsley's family past wasn't an easy one, but was handled extremely well.

I admit, some parts of this book are hard to believe, especially a womanizer turning out to be the most compassionate friend. While I believe in the lust and chemistry between the two main characters, the feelings still moved fast for me, especially given Ainsley's personal problems. I wanted to see Ainsley explore relationships after Lambo had solved her problems and helped her open up, however I liked them together as well and I like how much he did for Ainsley to bring her out of her shell and face her fears.

I am a big fan of brother's best friends turned lovers books, I like the development that takes place between the main character and the guy, as well as the main character and the brother, and the brother and best friend. There seems to be a lot more depth to these books, and the reality is I have had a lot of friends date their brother's friends. The best part of this book though wasn't the who, it was the what and how Elizabeth Brown made it all work. The subjects are sensitive, the past is heartbreaking, and the relationship between Ainsley and Lambo is much more than just lust and chemistry, but really a huge growing period, especially for Ainsley. I liked the topics of trust, of sharing, and not looking at oneself as damaged. If you are looking for a book, a whole series really, that is more than just a contemporary romance, this is it for you. I loved the characters, the writing style, and the witty humor that fills the pages of this book.