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Steele Brothers #1
Ryker
Mackenzie Steele assumed she’d be with her husband forever. He's still her best friend and the father of her children. But when weeks turn into months without intimacy, she realizes she's too young to feel so old. She wants to feel desirable again, to find the woman Ryker fell in love with twenty years ago. And there's only one way to do that… by asking him to move out.
Ryker's blindsided when his wife tells him she wants to separate. He knew they’d hit a rough patch, but he’d never allowed himself to imagine his life without her. Now he has no choice. She seems happy without him, living life on her own terms, and he knows if he doesn’t find a place for himself in her new life, it will be too late to save his marriage.
Ryker's blindsided when his wife tells him she wants to separate. He knew they’d hit a rough patch, but he’d never allowed himself to imagine his life without her. Now he has no choice. She seems happy without him, living life on her own terms, and he knows if he doesn’t find a place for himself in her new life, it will be too late to save his marriage.
268 pages, ebook
First published September 10, 2015
443 people are currently reading
1237 people want to read
About the author
Cheryl Douglas
80 books417 followersCheryl Douglas is a USA Today Bestselling author who kicks back in the country surrounded by farm land and nature. Her life revolves around family, country music, sports, travel, caffeine, chocolate, and deadlines.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
October 15, 2015
I was in a mood for a story that involved a married couple, I found this one and I’m glad I did because I really enjoyed reading about Ryker and Mac.
And while I’m really too tired to write a full review & recap, I’ll say that I loved both characters, the story surprisingly enough wasn’t too angsty. I felt like it flowed naturally and I was happy with how their second chance relationship progressed, how the hero never lost hope and how both of them never really let go of each other. It desperately needed an epilogue though, I know we’ll catch up with the couple in the next book but I still needed a better ending. Other than that, I really loved it, it felt real and while I’m not married, I actually felt like I got insight on why some marriages might suffer even though the couple still love each other. I liked that Mac didn’t blame Ryker for everything, she shared the blame for the state of their marriage and that really made me respect her, she was really relatable and the hero was really amazing and although they aren’t always perfect, you can easily understand where each of them is coming from. And as a plus, they were both good parents to their teenage kids which made me root for their family all the more.
Safety spoilers :
And while I’m really too tired to write a full review & recap, I’ll say that I loved both characters, the story surprisingly enough wasn’t too angsty. I felt like it flowed naturally and I was happy with how their second chance relationship progressed, how the hero never lost hope and how both of them never really let go of each other. It desperately needed an epilogue though, I know we’ll catch up with the couple in the next book but I still needed a better ending. Other than that, I really loved it, it felt real and while I’m not married, I actually felt like I got insight on why some marriages might suffer even though the couple still love each other. I liked that Mac didn’t blame Ryker for everything, she shared the blame for the state of their marriage and that really made me respect her, she was really relatable and the hero was really amazing and although they aren’t always perfect, you can easily understand where each of them is coming from. And as a plus, they were both good parents to their teenage kids which made me root for their family all the more.
Safety spoilers :
October 17, 2015
2.5 stars because it was just okay and because I don't feel like they've fully resolved their issues. There is just so much insecurity between the two of them and I can totally see them thinking about whether to stay together or not after their next argument. That's not where I want to leave my couples at. I want to believe in them 100%. And I don't feel like they handled their teenager son and his increasing bad behavior properly. I can also see the son sneaking out behind their backs even after the stunt he pulled at the end.
I did love how Ryker was 100% committed to making it work again and wasn't gonna stop chasing the h.
Safety gang:
I did love how Ryker was 100% committed to making it work again and wasn't gonna stop chasing the h.
Safety gang:
September 15, 2015
I absolutely LOVED LOVED LOVED this book. Full review to follow.
Review
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
WOW. This book was amazing and was something I had been searching for but never able to find one but then this dropped onto my kindle and from the first page I was like ’Yes, this is it!’.
This is the first book in new series Steele Brothers and is the story of Ryker and Mackenzie Steele.
I often wonder when I have reached the end of a book and we have that beautiful happy ever after, will they remain forever in love and as they are? This is a story that delivers that. After twenty years Mackenzie is disillusioned with her marriage, she still loves Ryker but is not sure if she is still in love with him. Over the last six months they have grown apart. Ryker is all for the business to provide for his wife and two teenage boys. Mackenzie has put on a few pounds and feels she is no longer attractive to Ryker, well it must be as he hasn’t even attempted to make love to her in all that time.
Through the trial separation Mackenzie finds herself again, no longer ‘Mom’ or ‘Wife’ she find who she used to be, that girl with a zest for life and taking a chance on things. One thing she did take a chance on was Ryker.
Ryker was from the other side of the tracks, a biker running with an MC. But since the first moment he set eyes on Mackenzie he just knew his life was about to change. In order to prove to her Dad that he could provide for her, he devoted his time to building up a business, making a home and family. They had remained in love all these years but then something ran out of sizzle all those months ago. Now seeing Mackenzie taking charge of herself, with her new image and dating, Ryker knew no man was going to have the chance to take his wife from him so he set off romancing her again.
I really loved this book about an older, established love and seeing the sexy pair reignite the passion in their lives with each other. The way their two boys, Zane and Cole, also stepped in to reunite their parents was so sweet and lovely to read.
Ryker was an instant hit for me, still holding onto his fit physique, his uber cool bike, and his sexy swagger. Oooh he just had me drooling. I also loved Mackenzie and how she loved her new look and the effort she took to be herself again. There was some angst and frustration on her part though too, when she pondered over whether to take a chance with Ryker again or let her marriage go. I was cheering when she finally saw the light and realised what a good thing they both had.
I loved the intimacy and passion between these two and how they rekindled their previous hot between the sheets moments. The believability and realism was easy to feel and understand, after all this happens all the time in real life, everyday nonsense getting in the way of feelings and giving out misunderstandings. It shows that through life we all hit a bump in the road but it’s taking the effort to work through that makes all the difference.
An absolutely wonderful romance of a man and woman as they enter a new stage in their marriage. From the very first tentative chapter to the emotive and magical ending, I devoured every page. I LOVED it and can’t wait for the next book and finding out all about that sexy brother Nex. Five stars.
Review
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
WOW. This book was amazing and was something I had been searching for but never able to find one but then this dropped onto my kindle and from the first page I was like ’Yes, this is it!’.
This is the first book in new series Steele Brothers and is the story of Ryker and Mackenzie Steele.
I often wonder when I have reached the end of a book and we have that beautiful happy ever after, will they remain forever in love and as they are? This is a story that delivers that. After twenty years Mackenzie is disillusioned with her marriage, she still loves Ryker but is not sure if she is still in love with him. Over the last six months they have grown apart. Ryker is all for the business to provide for his wife and two teenage boys. Mackenzie has put on a few pounds and feels she is no longer attractive to Ryker, well it must be as he hasn’t even attempted to make love to her in all that time.
Through the trial separation Mackenzie finds herself again, no longer ‘Mom’ or ‘Wife’ she find who she used to be, that girl with a zest for life and taking a chance on things. One thing she did take a chance on was Ryker.
Ryker was from the other side of the tracks, a biker running with an MC. But since the first moment he set eyes on Mackenzie he just knew his life was about to change. In order to prove to her Dad that he could provide for her, he devoted his time to building up a business, making a home and family. They had remained in love all these years but then something ran out of sizzle all those months ago. Now seeing Mackenzie taking charge of herself, with her new image and dating, Ryker knew no man was going to have the chance to take his wife from him so he set off romancing her again.
I really loved this book about an older, established love and seeing the sexy pair reignite the passion in their lives with each other. The way their two boys, Zane and Cole, also stepped in to reunite their parents was so sweet and lovely to read.
Ryker was an instant hit for me, still holding onto his fit physique, his uber cool bike, and his sexy swagger. Oooh he just had me drooling. I also loved Mackenzie and how she loved her new look and the effort she took to be herself again. There was some angst and frustration on her part though too, when she pondered over whether to take a chance with Ryker again or let her marriage go. I was cheering when she finally saw the light and realised what a good thing they both had.
I loved the intimacy and passion between these two and how they rekindled their previous hot between the sheets moments. The believability and realism was easy to feel and understand, after all this happens all the time in real life, everyday nonsense getting in the way of feelings and giving out misunderstandings. It shows that through life we all hit a bump in the road but it’s taking the effort to work through that makes all the difference.
An absolutely wonderful romance of a man and woman as they enter a new stage in their marriage. From the very first tentative chapter to the emotive and magical ending, I devoured every page. I LOVED it and can’t wait for the next book and finding out all about that sexy brother Nex. Five stars.
October 21, 2015
3.75 stars!
June 25, 2018
UPDATE: Reread June 2018
Both go out with another person during the time they are separated, but do not have sex with these people.
His brothers and her friend are the ones who do they go to the blind dates.
Both immediately regret the dates and still love each other.
----------------
Gostei muito e recomendo!
Both go out with another person during the time they are separated, but do not have sex with these people.
His brothers and her friend are the ones who do they go to the blind dates.
Both immediately regret the dates and still love each other.
----------------
Gostei muito e recomendo!
“I saw Ryker out for dinner with another woman last weekend.”
Why the hell should your ex be out with some blond bombshell while you’re sitting at home, wasting the best years of your life?”
I should have known Molly would have told her about the blonde I’d been out with last week.
I hadn’t told Nex part of the reason Mac had kicked me out was because of our sex life, or lack thereof. If he’d known that, he’d never let me live it down.
September 17, 2015
Ryker popped up in my Recommended for You feed on Amazon. Cheryl Douglas is a new-to-me author, and I endeavor to test out one of those per week, so I picked it up....
And it was quite good.
This was a realistic portrayal of a marriage in crisis--well, as a realistic as you can be with a hero who's a former 1%-er running a multi-million dollar custom bike operation....
Sometimes love falls apart. Women get so busy being wives and mothers that they completely lose sight of who they are. All of a sudden, you're on the cusp of an empty nest and totally fucking clueless about what you want out of life. This is the spot our heroine finds herself in at the onset of this story. Luckily, she has a man who was willing to back off and give her the time she needed to find her way....
Ryker was a marshmallow when it came to his wife and kids, but he retained enough of the badass biker he once was to rough him up around the edges and make him deliciously alpha. He also has a heap of brothers (FIVE!) waiting in the wings for their leading ladies, so there's more Steele badassery to come.....
And it was quite good.
This was a realistic portrayal of a marriage in crisis--well, as a realistic as you can be with a hero who's a former 1%-er running a multi-million dollar custom bike operation....
Sometimes love falls apart. Women get so busy being wives and mothers that they completely lose sight of who they are. All of a sudden, you're on the cusp of an empty nest and totally fucking clueless about what you want out of life. This is the spot our heroine finds herself in at the onset of this story. Luckily, she has a man who was willing to back off and give her the time she needed to find her way....
Ryker was a marshmallow when it came to his wife and kids, but he retained enough of the badass biker he once was to rough him up around the edges and make him deliciously alpha. He also has a heap of brothers (FIVE!) waiting in the wings for their leading ladies, so there's more Steele badassery to come.....
September 18, 2015
4.5
Did not expect to love it this much!! Im all for the biker/MC alpha male leads, I can inhale those stories in a second. With Ryker? It's as if you read a soulful realistic story that touches at your every emotional. Honestly.
New.
Different.
Surprising.
Sexy as hell.
Adorable.
Steamy.
Romantic.
Raw.
Edgy.
Realistic
I usually try to stay clear of books that I might find it very hard to relate to, and marriage is definitely one example. It just makes since I'd read those types of books when I can fully understand what it feels like to have kids & a husband. BUT. The author in Ryker did an absolutely amazing job at portraying what that type of relationship is like.
Even though I can imagine that hard parts of marriage, the writing style in this one made it so much easier to picture it like a movie :)
From the beginning I didn't feel like Ryker was a strong character, only because he wasn't acting like a father or a headband or a former biker would. Little did I know what was to come..
With an easy flowing + addictive story, there was little room left to judge. I honestly loved being delved into this book.. I couldn't put it down but at the same time, I could stop thinking about it either.
The only element that I wish was stronger or perhaps more present, was the connection with the overall story. Oddly enough, I felt a deep connection with the characters, that was the easy part. But for some reason I just couldn't connect that strongly with what the story portrayed.
When an author writes a book while pouring out their heart, soul and sometimes their sanity? You know it's going to be a fucking awesome story. Saying that, when done well, the reader also gets the rare experience of being touched by a book that will keep lingering at the back of their minds. This is what RYKER did.
Not only did I cry like a fucking baby but I also couldn't keep my emotions in check when it come to what Ryker will decide and what Mackenzie will have to say in return. Their kids also added another part that help the whole story together on another level. They have choices to make that evolve around THEM. Just Mackenzie and Ryker. But with having kids? The choices that make you or make your mind say 'yes' or 'no' is taken away from you.
Now your choices are solemnly driven by them. What is best for the kids is the priority. Cheryl Douglas does not hold back on the roller-coaster of an emotional ride. Nope. Thanks for that Cheryl Douglas. Now, here I am bowling my eyes out and I have to explain it to everyone that walks past. And that's not all. I'm not only crying but smiling at the same time. That out to have some "weird" looks my way.
All worth it though!
Every element was beautiful crafted, and the story opens up to many more main couples to come - which is my favourite type of series.
With that said, I just want to thank the author & her team for providing an ARC of this irresistible story!!! BLOODY THANK YOU! I will be one-clicking every damn book of yours from her on out!
Xx
Did not expect to love it this much!! Im all for the biker/MC alpha male leads, I can inhale those stories in a second. With Ryker? It's as if you read a soulful realistic story that touches at your every emotional. Honestly.
New.
Different.
Surprising.
Sexy as hell.
Adorable.
Steamy.
Romantic.
Raw.
Edgy.
Realistic
I usually try to stay clear of books that I might find it very hard to relate to, and marriage is definitely one example. It just makes since I'd read those types of books when I can fully understand what it feels like to have kids & a husband. BUT. The author in Ryker did an absolutely amazing job at portraying what that type of relationship is like.
Even though I can imagine that hard parts of marriage, the writing style in this one made it so much easier to picture it like a movie :)
From the beginning I didn't feel like Ryker was a strong character, only because he wasn't acting like a father or a headband or a former biker would. Little did I know what was to come..
With an easy flowing + addictive story, there was little room left to judge. I honestly loved being delved into this book.. I couldn't put it down but at the same time, I could stop thinking about it either.
The only element that I wish was stronger or perhaps more present, was the connection with the overall story. Oddly enough, I felt a deep connection with the characters, that was the easy part. But for some reason I just couldn't connect that strongly with what the story portrayed.
When an author writes a book while pouring out their heart, soul and sometimes their sanity? You know it's going to be a fucking awesome story. Saying that, when done well, the reader also gets the rare experience of being touched by a book that will keep lingering at the back of their minds. This is what RYKER did.
Not only did I cry like a fucking baby but I also couldn't keep my emotions in check when it come to what Ryker will decide and what Mackenzie will have to say in return. Their kids also added another part that help the whole story together on another level. They have choices to make that evolve around THEM. Just Mackenzie and Ryker. But with having kids? The choices that make you or make your mind say 'yes' or 'no' is taken away from you.
Now your choices are solemnly driven by them. What is best for the kids is the priority. Cheryl Douglas does not hold back on the roller-coaster of an emotional ride. Nope. Thanks for that Cheryl Douglas. Now, here I am bowling my eyes out and I have to explain it to everyone that walks past. And that's not all. I'm not only crying but smiling at the same time. That out to have some "weird" looks my way.
All worth it though!
Every element was beautiful crafted, and the story opens up to many more main couples to come - which is my favourite type of series.
With that said, I just want to thank the author & her team for providing an ARC of this irresistible story!!! BLOODY THANK YOU! I will be one-clicking every damn book of yours from her on out!
Xx
March 29, 2019
I love reconciliation marriage books.
I liked there was no cheating on either side. Both had opportunity if they had given encouragement to other interested parties but esp the husband expresses he only ever wanted his wife.
I was a bit puzzled with some actions early on.
They split at the start, the heroine pushes for it, the Hero reluctantly agrees.
Then the story jumps 6 months on, the heroine is going on a date, her friend told her her husband, the Hero recently was seen on a date with another woman.
The Hero later clarifies his brother pressured him to go, just as the friend of the wife pressures her to go, and neither of them connect with their dates.
I just didn't understand the Hero.
He didn't want to move out and split but what did he do in the 6 months that followed the initial split to get back together?
Why did he give in to pressure to date the other woman? He didn't seem to have enough backbone to me.
His dating could have led to a permenant split/divorce if things had worked out differently.
I liked they both accepted responsibility for the breakdown in their relationship.
Dual POV.
Secondary characters drop breadcrumbs for possible future storylines.
They do some very honest conversations, that are very realistic.
I liked there was no cheating on either side. Both had opportunity if they had given encouragement to other interested parties but esp the husband expresses he only ever wanted his wife.
I was a bit puzzled with some actions early on.
They split at the start, the heroine pushes for it, the Hero reluctantly agrees.
Then the story jumps 6 months on, the heroine is going on a date, her friend told her her husband, the Hero recently was seen on a date with another woman.
The Hero later clarifies his brother pressured him to go, just as the friend of the wife pressures her to go, and neither of them connect with their dates.
I just didn't understand the Hero.
He didn't want to move out and split but what did he do in the 6 months that followed the initial split to get back together?
Why did he give in to pressure to date the other woman? He didn't seem to have enough backbone to me.
His dating could have led to a permenant split/divorce if things had worked out differently.
I liked they both accepted responsibility for the breakdown in their relationship.
Dual POV.
Secondary characters drop breadcrumbs for possible future storylines.
They do some very honest conversations, that are very realistic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
May 16, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/18/2019)! 🎁
May 5, 2021
I don't love a second chance romance. But I do love the idea of two people seeing problems in their marriage and actively working on them. Including forgiveness, conversations, and mutual respect. This book read differently than most romances; our MCs had a rich history that neither was really willing to give up, and that led to both wanting to fight for it. There's no real plot twists or crazy events. It's what happens after HEA might not go as you expect.
September 2, 2015
Ryker (Steele Brothers #1)
Cheryl Douglas
4.5 stars
Cheryl Douglas gave us “Deacon” one of my favorite books thus far. Just like Deacon, her new book Ryker is a fast easy read that is realistic to the readers.
Ryker Steele loves his wife but lately things are strained; or maybe not even lately. He worked his way out of having nothing building an empire for his first and only love Mackenzie along with their two boys Zane and Cole. Ryker had nothing growing up so being someone was something he was not going to let pass him by.
Mackenzie Steele fell in love with Ryker the minute she laid eyes on the bad boy in highschool. He was from the wrong side of the tracks running with an MC getting into trouble. Mackenzie saw more; she saw a man who was going to be her husband. Never did she think that would change. Ryker works long hours, their love life is nonexistent, she is twenty five pounds heavier, a housewife and has lost herself. She knows asking Ryker to move out is going to kill him and her boys but its time. Too many lonely nights and too many things have gone sideways.
This is a story about fighting to find yourself back and in return finding what you lost. I LOVE this book. Its so true to life in so many ways. So many women are lost after getting married and being Mom for so long. The passion gets pushed to the side, you become a shadow of who you were and there is no time for yourself.
Ryker is an exceptional man. Wow ... He has his flaws; both characters do; but losing themselves was upsetting to both. There was no cheating, nothing like that which I also love. It was a story about sacrifices for those you love but in turn what those sacrifices end up costing in the end. What do you ignore unintentionally? What do you not see? Did you say I love you enough? Its going to make you take a step back and look at your own life. LOVE THAT!
Ryker is a man that we all would love to have beside us. He is a fighter, dedicated and committed. Although Mackenzie’s self confidence keeps her pulling away from Ryker he never once found her unattractive or fell out of love with her. His family was his prize and the thing that kept him going. Mackenzie and Ryker have a long road to travel. How will they get there and will they lose or win their family back?
All I can say is read it …. You might find some of yourself in this excellent story. I also love the drama of raising teenage boys. Living that one right now! Grab it up and while you are at it grab up Deacon and the rest of the Starkis family too. Cheryl has a lot of things on tap for us and I cant wait!
A few things coming soon --- Nex (Steele Brothers #2 – Rykers brother) -- Kara (Starkis Family #4)
I received an ARC for an honest review. Review to post on Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets on release day. Thank you Cheryl!
Cheryl Douglas
4.5 stars
Cheryl Douglas gave us “Deacon” one of my favorite books thus far. Just like Deacon, her new book Ryker is a fast easy read that is realistic to the readers.
Ryker Steele loves his wife but lately things are strained; or maybe not even lately. He worked his way out of having nothing building an empire for his first and only love Mackenzie along with their two boys Zane and Cole. Ryker had nothing growing up so being someone was something he was not going to let pass him by.
Mackenzie Steele fell in love with Ryker the minute she laid eyes on the bad boy in highschool. He was from the wrong side of the tracks running with an MC getting into trouble. Mackenzie saw more; she saw a man who was going to be her husband. Never did she think that would change. Ryker works long hours, their love life is nonexistent, she is twenty five pounds heavier, a housewife and has lost herself. She knows asking Ryker to move out is going to kill him and her boys but its time. Too many lonely nights and too many things have gone sideways.
This is a story about fighting to find yourself back and in return finding what you lost. I LOVE this book. Its so true to life in so many ways. So many women are lost after getting married and being Mom for so long. The passion gets pushed to the side, you become a shadow of who you were and there is no time for yourself.
Ryker is an exceptional man. Wow ... He has his flaws; both characters do; but losing themselves was upsetting to both. There was no cheating, nothing like that which I also love. It was a story about sacrifices for those you love but in turn what those sacrifices end up costing in the end. What do you ignore unintentionally? What do you not see? Did you say I love you enough? Its going to make you take a step back and look at your own life. LOVE THAT!
Ryker is a man that we all would love to have beside us. He is a fighter, dedicated and committed. Although Mackenzie’s self confidence keeps her pulling away from Ryker he never once found her unattractive or fell out of love with her. His family was his prize and the thing that kept him going. Mackenzie and Ryker have a long road to travel. How will they get there and will they lose or win their family back?
All I can say is read it …. You might find some of yourself in this excellent story. I also love the drama of raising teenage boys. Living that one right now! Grab it up and while you are at it grab up Deacon and the rest of the Starkis family too. Cheryl has a lot of things on tap for us and I cant wait!
A few things coming soon --- Nex (Steele Brothers #2 – Rykers brother) -- Kara (Starkis Family #4)
I received an ARC for an honest review. Review to post on Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets on release day. Thank you Cheryl!
November 16, 2015
3.5 starts. Definitely some keen insights of what could go wrong in a seemingly strong marriage. At times, hitting a little too close to home. However, it suffers a little from too much repetition which dragged down the pace.
June 2, 2023
BOOK 20 of my 2023 Valentine reading rush where I read romance books with men on the cover and a color of the rainbow.
featured color: black
Finally, I'm done with my own arduous reading challenge, and I can officially move on. It has been really tough since I've been juggling with my personal life and other hobbies (i.e. gaming, tv show bingeing, movie marathons, writing, etc.)
Anyway, I didn't expect this book to be clean compared to motorcycle romances I've read before. That aspect of the hero's life wasn't the highlight of the book. Ryker is a successful businessman, who happens to be a member of an MC. The book is really about him and his wife, Mackenzie, as they wade through the process of separation, dealing with their two teenage boys, and finding love and trust again.
I say it was clean hahahaha like no hot scenes? Come on! And the main drama that really tested their back and forth happened at the last 2 chapters and it was resolved quickly because of the 'kids'. Not that I am complaining much but maybe I wanted more.
3 stars it is. Very neutral about this and I shit you not when I say I'll probably forget about this next week.
featured color: black
Finally, I'm done with my own arduous reading challenge, and I can officially move on. It has been really tough since I've been juggling with my personal life and other hobbies (i.e. gaming, tv show bingeing, movie marathons, writing, etc.)
Anyway, I didn't expect this book to be clean compared to motorcycle romances I've read before. That aspect of the hero's life wasn't the highlight of the book. Ryker is a successful businessman, who happens to be a member of an MC. The book is really about him and his wife, Mackenzie, as they wade through the process of separation, dealing with their two teenage boys, and finding love and trust again.
I say it was clean hahahaha like no hot scenes? Come on! And the main drama that really tested their back and forth happened at the last 2 chapters and it was resolved quickly because of the 'kids'. Not that I am complaining much but maybe I wanted more.
3 stars it is. Very neutral about this and I shit you not when I say I'll probably forget about this next week.
March 28, 2017
I love to find new authors that I connect with their writting and Cheryl Douglas is just such an author. I really loved this story because it was about a couple that has been married awhile and the passion has fallen by the wayside. What would Ryker and Mackenzie do to rekindle their relationship, could they save their marriage, and did they want to save it? These are thoughts I am sure some of us have gone through. I found this storyline so refreshing and the way Ms Douglas has written this story it is relatable and believable. I look forward to reading more from this author. I Highly Recommend this book.
September 26, 2023
I don’t like books with a manufactured conflict. He loved her. She loved him. She wanted a separation because they hadn’t had sex in months. He claimed it was because he worked really hard and was just too tired. Yet, the book mentioned that he spent “hours” working out every day after work. So, none of this made any sense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2017
Love troubles
This book had the typical soap opera story line. Not a total waste of time, still a good read. The way the story is written, makes you want to learn more about the other characters, as well.
This book had the typical soap opera story line. Not a total waste of time, still a good read. The way the story is written, makes you want to learn more about the other characters, as well.
September 22, 2015
Overall Stars: 5 STARS
Separation
Alpha Male
After twenty years can two lovers lost find their inner balance and rekindle the passion thought to have disappeared?
Mackenzie Steele assumed she’d be with her husband forever. He's still her best friend and the father of her children. But when weeks turn into months without intimacy, she realizes she's too young to feel so old. She wants to feel desirable again, to find the woman Ryker fell in love with twenty years ago. And there’s only one way to do that… by asking him to move out. Ryker's blindsided when his wife tells him she wants to separate. He knew they’d hit a rough patch, but he’d never allowed himself to imagine his life without her. Now he has no choice. (Amazon Blurb)
How many of us have had that nagging feeling that one of these days after 12-15 or even 20 years of being with our significant other would no longer find us desirable and worry that they'd leave us. Mackenzie and Ryker were the embodiment of every wedded or long term couple: we all go through the same worries, the same doubts, the challenges and especially the same life altering decisions that may or may not need to be decided. And let's not forget the oh-my-goodness-bring-me-a-hose sexual tension between the two, I think I was about to combust!! And sneaky kids!! They made my day! Who can not appreciate the endless ways they'd find excuses to have their parents in the same room - hilarious. What I must point out and I will give a ton of bonus points to the author for making it quite important as well, is that the changes Mackenzie decided to make, the weight loss, finding a fulfilling job, etc., were for her benefit, to find herself and NOT for her husband, not her children and not her neighbours. Simply to find herself and finally know who she is - an important message for anyone. Quite frankly, from the sexual tension, the relatable situation in which the characters find themselves and the book itself (awesome writing, hilarious, witty, and the list goes on and on), Cheryl Douglas has become one author that makes it on my To Be Read list for her future novels, especially with the Steele Brothers series.
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Kathleen for Alpha Book Club**
Separation
Alpha Male
After twenty years can two lovers lost find their inner balance and rekindle the passion thought to have disappeared?
Mackenzie Steele assumed she’d be with her husband forever. He's still her best friend and the father of her children. But when weeks turn into months without intimacy, she realizes she's too young to feel so old. She wants to feel desirable again, to find the woman Ryker fell in love with twenty years ago. And there’s only one way to do that… by asking him to move out. Ryker's blindsided when his wife tells him she wants to separate. He knew they’d hit a rough patch, but he’d never allowed himself to imagine his life without her. Now he has no choice. (Amazon Blurb)
How many of us have had that nagging feeling that one of these days after 12-15 or even 20 years of being with our significant other would no longer find us desirable and worry that they'd leave us. Mackenzie and Ryker were the embodiment of every wedded or long term couple: we all go through the same worries, the same doubts, the challenges and especially the same life altering decisions that may or may not need to be decided. And let's not forget the oh-my-goodness-bring-me-a-hose sexual tension between the two, I think I was about to combust!! And sneaky kids!! They made my day! Who can not appreciate the endless ways they'd find excuses to have their parents in the same room - hilarious. What I must point out and I will give a ton of bonus points to the author for making it quite important as well, is that the changes Mackenzie decided to make, the weight loss, finding a fulfilling job, etc., were for her benefit, to find herself and NOT for her husband, not her children and not her neighbours. Simply to find herself and finally know who she is - an important message for anyone. Quite frankly, from the sexual tension, the relatable situation in which the characters find themselves and the book itself (awesome writing, hilarious, witty, and the list goes on and on), Cheryl Douglas has become one author that makes it on my To Be Read list for her future novels, especially with the Steele Brothers series.
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Kathleen for Alpha Book Club**
September 24, 2015
Reviewed for A Wanton Book Lover Blog
Ryker and Mackenzie Steele have been together and married for close to 20 years. Ryker, who was little more than a criminal when he married Mackenzie, has built up a mechanic shop that now one of the most successful and sought out shops in the nation. The business success had provided Mackenzie the opportunity to be a stay-at-home mom to her now teenage-aged boys. But Mackenzie now finds herself questioning her marriage. She loves Ryker, but is she still in love with him? Does he still love her? She has put on a few pounds over the years and no longer feels attractive and to make matters worse, Ryker and her have been having a dry spell in the bedroom. She remembers when they were young and couldn’t get enough of each other. Mackenzie begins to question her life, her marriage, and herself. Mackenzie asks Ryker to move out for a while so that she can think and try to gain some clarity on where her life is at currently and what she’d like to see in the future. Ryker feels completely blindsided by Mackenzie’s request but he will do anything she requests. Both Mackenzie and Ryker have a lot to think about, especially where their future together is concerned.
Even though Ryker was once in an MC, this isn’t what one might think of when reading your more traditional motorcycle club books. Ryker, Steele Brothers #1, really is an emotional journey between a middle-aged couple trying to learn who each other are and find their ways back to each other. It really does deal with realistic, hard to deal with, let alone, think about situations. Ryker began a journey to see where he had gone wrong in his marriage drawing on experiences and the advice of many other people. Mackenzie also starts to see herself as an individual person again, not just the stay-at-home mother and wife of Ryker Steele. The ending is a HEA but it was a bumpy road getting there that was beautifully written by Cheryl Douglass.
Ryker and Mackenzie Steele have been together and married for close to 20 years. Ryker, who was little more than a criminal when he married Mackenzie, has built up a mechanic shop that now one of the most successful and sought out shops in the nation. The business success had provided Mackenzie the opportunity to be a stay-at-home mom to her now teenage-aged boys. But Mackenzie now finds herself questioning her marriage. She loves Ryker, but is she still in love with him? Does he still love her? She has put on a few pounds over the years and no longer feels attractive and to make matters worse, Ryker and her have been having a dry spell in the bedroom. She remembers when they were young and couldn’t get enough of each other. Mackenzie begins to question her life, her marriage, and herself. Mackenzie asks Ryker to move out for a while so that she can think and try to gain some clarity on where her life is at currently and what she’d like to see in the future. Ryker feels completely blindsided by Mackenzie’s request but he will do anything she requests. Both Mackenzie and Ryker have a lot to think about, especially where their future together is concerned.
Even though Ryker was once in an MC, this isn’t what one might think of when reading your more traditional motorcycle club books. Ryker, Steele Brothers #1, really is an emotional journey between a middle-aged couple trying to learn who each other are and find their ways back to each other. It really does deal with realistic, hard to deal with, let alone, think about situations. Ryker began a journey to see where he had gone wrong in his marriage drawing on experiences and the advice of many other people. Mackenzie also starts to see herself as an individual person again, not just the stay-at-home mother and wife of Ryker Steele. The ending is a HEA but it was a bumpy road getting there that was beautifully written by Cheryl Douglass.
September 28, 2015
**DEBBIE'S 3.5 STAR REVIEW**
This is a book that I think most women will be able to relate to in one way or another. The story had some raw and emotional moments that I could totally understand where Mac was coming from. That is not to say there weren’t parts that made me angry. Several times I felt like Mac was sending Ryker mixed signals. I got that she had self esteem issues and felt like her life was not what she envisioned it to be, but a few times I felt like if only they had communicated better it would not have gone so far that she felt she had no other choice than to possibly end the marriage.
“I could hear the disbelief in my husband’s voice. After seventeen years of marriage, almost twenty years together, he couldn’t believe I was asking him to walk away.”
“He was still my best friend, the father of my two children. That’s what made this so painful. I didn’t dislike him. I didn’t resent him. I just… didn’t really know him anymore. Or myself for that matter.”
“We were just friends, and I wanted more. I wanted passion. I wanted someone to find me appealing again, to look at me the way Ryker used to.”
I really enjoyed this story and devoured it in one sitting. This is a book that will make you stop and reevaluate your relationship. The story flowed extremely well and all the characters in this one just worked well to make the story seem very believable. I loved the chemistry between Mac and Ryker and the author did a fantastic job at building that chemistry. I loved Ryker’s brothers and really hope to see more books about them in the future. If you are looking for a book that will make you stop and think about your marriage than this one you should defiantly read.
This is a book that I think most women will be able to relate to in one way or another. The story had some raw and emotional moments that I could totally understand where Mac was coming from. That is not to say there weren’t parts that made me angry. Several times I felt like Mac was sending Ryker mixed signals. I got that she had self esteem issues and felt like her life was not what she envisioned it to be, but a few times I felt like if only they had communicated better it would not have gone so far that she felt she had no other choice than to possibly end the marriage.
“I could hear the disbelief in my husband’s voice. After seventeen years of marriage, almost twenty years together, he couldn’t believe I was asking him to walk away.”
“He was still my best friend, the father of my two children. That’s what made this so painful. I didn’t dislike him. I didn’t resent him. I just… didn’t really know him anymore. Or myself for that matter.”
“We were just friends, and I wanted more. I wanted passion. I wanted someone to find me appealing again, to look at me the way Ryker used to.”
I really enjoyed this story and devoured it in one sitting. This is a book that will make you stop and reevaluate your relationship. The story flowed extremely well and all the characters in this one just worked well to make the story seem very believable. I loved the chemistry between Mac and Ryker and the author did a fantastic job at building that chemistry. I loved Ryker’s brothers and really hope to see more books about them in the future. If you are looking for a book that will make you stop and think about your marriage than this one you should defiantly read.
August 29, 2015
Ryker and MacKenzie Steele and their two teenage boys, Zane and Cole, had a good life. Ryker had a bad childhood and his dad beat him a lot when he was drunk. He always worked hard to give his family things he never had. He had built a million dollar bike business that was known world wide. Everyone knew Ryker Steele. Mac and Ryker had been married seventeen years and he thought everything was good. He worked hard, worked late and had to travel and have business dinners. He thought everything was great until his wife set him down and asked for a separation. Ryker couldn't believe his ears. She told him she needed more. He never paid her any attention and they hadn't had sex for six months. He found this all hard to believe. He hadn't even noticed and that was a problem. Mac didn't know who she was anymore other than a stay at home mom. She had gained weight and she didn't feel loved at all anymore. She told Ryker she needed to find herself and what was important to her. Ryker didn't think he could survive without her but six months later they were still apart. Now what? Try to move on without each other or try to work on them. When their oldest boy gets into trouble it really brings everything home to Ryker. Can they rebuild what they had or is it too late? This book does contain some sex scenes. The story is very good
April 5, 2016
Standalone/Cliffhanger: Standalone
Ages of H and h: In their late 30s or 40s
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages:
Was There Descriptive Sex:
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM:
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup:
Contains Cheating:
Amount of Sex In The Book:
HEA/HFN/etc Ending:
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval:
Any Triggers/Warnings: No
>>Detail: N/A
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: Yes
Would You Read More Books By This Author: Yes
My Thoughts
Ages of H and h: In their late 30s or 40s
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages:
Was There Descriptive Sex:
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM:
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup:
Contains Cheating:
Amount of Sex In The Book:
HEA/HFN/etc Ending:
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval:
Any Triggers/Warnings: No
>>Detail: N/A
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: Yes
Would You Read More Books By This Author: Yes
My Thoughts
March 31, 2016
Just OK. I liked the idea of a romance about a married couple trying to find their way back together. But the execution was lacking in this story.
I agree with what Dr Phil says about divorce: You have to earn your way out. And these characters did not do that. Heck, they never even had a conversation BEFORE she dropped the bomb that she wanted him to move out. I was just annoyed that she tried a few passive fixes and then just kicks him out without even talking to him. Most of the changes she made that made her happier could have been done while he was still in the house. Instead she disrupts her kids lives and causes her husband to feel so insecure he is waiting for the next time she gets a wild hair and throws him out. How can they have any trust again? It just felt like her reasons for the separation were very superficial and selfish. If she had just had a few conversations with him before instead of after a lot of pain could have been avoided.
This was a kindle freebie.
I agree with what Dr Phil says about divorce: You have to earn your way out. And these characters did not do that. Heck, they never even had a conversation BEFORE she dropped the bomb that she wanted him to move out. I was just annoyed that she tried a few passive fixes and then just kicks him out without even talking to him. Most of the changes she made that made her happier could have been done while he was still in the house. Instead she disrupts her kids lives and causes her husband to feel so insecure he is waiting for the next time she gets a wild hair and throws him out. How can they have any trust again? It just felt like her reasons for the separation were very superficial and selfish. If she had just had a few conversations with him before instead of after a lot of pain could have been avoided.
This was a kindle freebie.
April 10, 2016
did not finish at 56%
I tried to keep going with this story, but 56% was all I could manage
Mac was WAY too annoying and self-absorbed. I get that she lived for years and didn't feel like she was getting anywhere, but it seemed to me like Ryker was finally understanding what she'd been going through, that she was serious, and he needed to do something about it (not just passively hope that everything would get better). why couldn't she cut him some slack instead of overreacting and all me-me-me?
maybe it was the way it was presented or I don't know ... I wanted to understand where she was coming from, but it was just one too many cycles of her getting angry and unwilling to communicate or explain, like an adult and a partner in a long-term relationship (with children!), what her problem was
I tried to keep going with this story, but 56% was all I could manage
Mac was WAY too annoying and self-absorbed. I get that she lived for years and didn't feel like she was getting anywhere, but it seemed to me like Ryker was finally understanding what she'd been going through, that she was serious, and he needed to do something about it (not just passively hope that everything would get better). why couldn't she cut him some slack instead of overreacting and all me-me-me?
maybe it was the way it was presented or I don't know ... I wanted to understand where she was coming from, but it was just one too many cycles of her getting angry and unwilling to communicate or explain, like an adult and a partner in a long-term relationship (with children!), what her problem was
September 23, 2015
It was not a bad book really. It had some really good parts where two people work out their problems it's just that I found the heroine a bit sensitive amd whiny and making problems seem bigger then they are. I get that she was unhappy but to take it to such extremes? Kick the guy out with out even tring to talk things thru before?! She pissed me off. He was nice, too nice. I would have done her caveman style and put a cap on that shit. But then I don't like nonsense. It's over, let's move on :)
May 19, 2023
This started out so promising, the premise is something I've never read before.
Then it all went downhill.
She could literally"find herself" while she was still married. The whole thing was just pointless and I cared nothing for these characters.
Also, the dialogue was so bad that the characters all sounded the same. No one had their own personality or the way they talked.
Will not continue with this series.
Then it all went downhill.
She could literally"find herself" while she was still married. The whole thing was just pointless and I cared nothing for these characters.
Also, the dialogue was so bad that the characters all sounded the same. No one had their own personality or the way they talked.
Will not continue with this series.
November 7, 2015
I really liked it but I wanted more. I would like to have had an epilogue...
Of course there are more brothers so maybe we will get updates.
This book reminds us not to take things for granted and enjoy all the little things...and for goodness sake talk to each other. My favorite thing-they were a mature couple with real issues.
Of course there are more brothers so maybe we will get updates.
This book reminds us not to take things for granted and enjoy all the little things...and for goodness sake talk to each other. My favorite thing-they were a mature couple with real issues.
September 4, 2019
2.5 because the story was ok
Mac was a real B**ch she say she loves Ryker but keeps pushing him away and pulling him back playing with his heart and if she wasn't so full of her self and talked to her husband instead of putting him out and they may could have done things differently
Mac was a real B**ch she say she loves Ryker but keeps pushing him away and pulling him back playing with his heart and if she wasn't so full of her self and talked to her husband instead of putting him out and they may could have done things differently
May 3, 2021
This book made me angry
This guy comes from nothing. He builds a multi million dollar business for his wife and kids. Everything he does is for her. Still, she kicks him out to 'find herself'. She's an ungrateful little twit that makes him jump through hoops for a scrap of her attention. I wanted to smack her more than once.
This guy comes from nothing. He builds a multi million dollar business for his wife and kids. Everything he does is for her. Still, she kicks him out to 'find herself'. She's an ungrateful little twit that makes him jump through hoops for a scrap of her attention. I wanted to smack her more than once.
May 8, 2021
Tedious
The premise of the book is interesting and a little bit out of the ordinary. But the tension was repetitive and the wife came across as whiny and frankly, hot and cold. She was always changing her mind. It drove me crazy. By the time the book was over, I felt relief. Can’t recommend.
The premise of the book is interesting and a little bit out of the ordinary. But the tension was repetitive and the wife came across as whiny and frankly, hot and cold. She was always changing her mind. It drove me crazy. By the time the book was over, I felt relief. Can’t recommend.
April 12, 2016
only if you have plenty of money--
I found the heroine's behavior selfish. She has to ask him to leave before she'll work with a coach and go on a diet/self-improvement program to change her life.
I found the heroine's behavior selfish. She has to ask him to leave before she'll work with a coach and go on a diet/self-improvement program to change her life.
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