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The Last Thing She Wanted…
From the moment Sass Stone overheard her social worker call her “broken,” she’s been hell-bent on proving her wrong. A broken woman doesn't have a posse of kickass friends, a foodie lover’s dream job and a string of pretty boys she enjoys playing with. Sure, she has scars, but they’re buried so far down no one even knows they’re there. Certainly her former foster brother, Rudolfo Panuzzi doesn’t know about them. The man she’d dubbed “Rude” could sniff around all he wanted, but it wasn’t going to get him anywhere. He’d never get inside—her pants, or her heart.
…Was The One Thing She Needed
A dozen years and several combat tours in the Marines has a way of maturing a man, and Rude is no exception. His last mission killed his closest friends and almost killed him, leaving him with wounds on both body and soul. When he looks in the mirror, the haunted eyes staring back remind him far too much of his sexy little foster sister, Sass. That’s when he knows there’s more to her than he ever imagined… and he’s imagined one hell of a lot.
When Want And Need Collide
One by one, Rude destroys the defenses that have kept Sass locked inside herself. But even as she reluctantly allows him to coax her out of her shell, a dark cloud casts its shadow on their world. Is it something from his past… or hers?
109,000 words
***This is the fourth book in the House Of Payne series, but each book can be read as a standalone. Not intended for readers under the age of 18 due to adult language and sexual content***
From the moment Sass Stone overheard her social worker call her “broken,” she’s been hell-bent on proving her wrong. A broken woman doesn't have a posse of kickass friends, a foodie lover’s dream job and a string of pretty boys she enjoys playing with. Sure, she has scars, but they’re buried so far down no one even knows they’re there. Certainly her former foster brother, Rudolfo Panuzzi doesn’t know about them. The man she’d dubbed “Rude” could sniff around all he wanted, but it wasn’t going to get him anywhere. He’d never get inside—her pants, or her heart.
…Was The One Thing She Needed
A dozen years and several combat tours in the Marines has a way of maturing a man, and Rude is no exception. His last mission killed his closest friends and almost killed him, leaving him with wounds on both body and soul. When he looks in the mirror, the haunted eyes staring back remind him far too much of his sexy little foster sister, Sass. That’s when he knows there’s more to her than he ever imagined… and he’s imagined one hell of a lot.
When Want And Need Collide
One by one, Rude destroys the defenses that have kept Sass locked inside herself. But even as she reluctantly allows him to coax her out of her shell, a dark cloud casts its shadow on their world. Is it something from his past… or hers?
109,000 words
***This is the fourth book in the House Of Payne series, but each book can be read as a standalone. Not intended for readers under the age of 18 due to adult language and sexual content***
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2015
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343 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 2, 2018
Safety:
Heroine and hero were in their teens when they first met. They DID NOT fall in love. He was as much a jerk a usual teenage boy is to two unknown females hogging his personal space. So trust me there was nothing.
But I couldn't call that bullying either.
They both had numerous lovers. Hero was a bit of a player (not sure the difference between a whore and a player but he was respectful to women and didn't indicate using them). He cleaned up really nice after some trauma. As in became squeaky clean.
Heroine had no committed relationships. She also didn't care much for any of her exes.
I have two seperate tags - one for sleeping with OW while in love with heroine and the other is sleeping with OW after meeting heroine. The latter one is somewhat acceptable to me as safe, such as for this kind of situation. The moment hero fell in love with the heroine, he was celibate.
There are some details about rape, which happened off the page.
Details about domestic violence.
NO OW drama.
OM drama, off the page. Mention of OMs.
****
Review:
Let me start of by telling you that this isn't a victim falling for her bully.
Hero was a teenage asshole.
However it wasn't because he loved her. True he wanted her attention but he was just being himself, a pissy sixteen year old who didn't know better.
But this adult man does. He can't go back in time and headslap his teenage self.
But he can ask for forgiveness. And once he realised how hurt she was by his actions he almost doesn't know how to fix it anymore.
He may come across as cocky and arrogant but that is the only way to his survival. If he doesn't force himself in the heroine's life she isn't going to give a shit about him. He's just not in her radar. He is "nothing" to her. This guy feels insecure and insignificant compared to the heroine and all he wanted was a chance to prove he has changed. He has learned his lesson.
And he has changed. This is not another Stockholm syndrome story.
Sass really did hate Rude for what he did to her.
But that's teenage Rude.
She can see adult Rude is asking for forgiveness and recognition and connection. He's offering not just love, but respect. He's remorseful. So she became the adult and she started to learn about the adult Rude and in process she forgave the teenage Rude and helped him forgive himself.
Mama Coco and Papa Bolo are amazing. The way they assured Sass that she is as important to them as Rude if not more was amazing.
There was a scene where Rude learned the hard way that when someone says no, it does mean no. I didn't know who to feel sorrier for.
But it did take his alphaness a notch or two down. Let me make it clear, he did NOT force her into anything but he pushed way too hard than he had the right to at that point of time.
Now this could have been a 5 star read.
But I absolutely did NOT enjoy the B grade subplot of the Russian mobs.
Also there is a certain sex scene I didn't care for no matter how much consensual it was and whatever Rude's motivations were. I just don't do angry sex. And it definitely took away the enjoyment I had from the book!
Rude is definitely the hero, but Sass is the centre of his universe and therefore the life of the book.
I didn't like the way she melted for Rude, yes, but that didn't reduce her strength or sass.
I love a strong heroine.
Heroine and hero were in their teens when they first met. They DID NOT fall in love. He was as much a jerk a usual teenage boy is to two unknown females hogging his personal space. So trust me there was nothing.
But I couldn't call that bullying either.
They both had numerous lovers. Hero was a bit of a player (not sure the difference between a whore and a player but he was respectful to women and didn't indicate using them). He cleaned up really nice after some trauma. As in became squeaky clean.
Heroine had no committed relationships. She also didn't care much for any of her exes.
I have two seperate tags - one for sleeping with OW while in love with heroine and the other is sleeping with OW after meeting heroine. The latter one is somewhat acceptable to me as safe, such as for this kind of situation. The moment hero fell in love with the heroine, he was celibate.
There are some details about rape, which happened off the page.
Details about domestic violence.
NO OW drama.
OM drama, off the page. Mention of OMs.
****
Review:
Let me start of by telling you that this isn't a victim falling for her bully.
Hero was a teenage asshole.
However it wasn't because he loved her. True he wanted her attention but he was just being himself, a pissy sixteen year old who didn't know better.
But this adult man does. He can't go back in time and headslap his teenage self.
But he can ask for forgiveness. And once he realised how hurt she was by his actions he almost doesn't know how to fix it anymore.
He may come across as cocky and arrogant but that is the only way to his survival. If he doesn't force himself in the heroine's life she isn't going to give a shit about him. He's just not in her radar. He is "nothing" to her. This guy feels insecure and insignificant compared to the heroine and all he wanted was a chance to prove he has changed. He has learned his lesson.
And he has changed. This is not another Stockholm syndrome story.
Sass really did hate Rude for what he did to her.
But that's teenage Rude.
She can see adult Rude is asking for forgiveness and recognition and connection. He's offering not just love, but respect. He's remorseful. So she became the adult and she started to learn about the adult Rude and in process she forgave the teenage Rude and helped him forgive himself.
Mama Coco and Papa Bolo are amazing. The way they assured Sass that she is as important to them as Rude if not more was amazing.
There was a scene where Rude learned the hard way that when someone says no, it does mean no. I didn't know who to feel sorrier for.
But it did take his alphaness a notch or two down. Let me make it clear, he did NOT force her into anything but he pushed way too hard than he had the right to at that point of time.
Now this could have been a 5 star read.
But I absolutely did NOT enjoy the B grade subplot of the Russian mobs.
Also there is a certain sex scene I didn't care for no matter how much consensual it was and whatever Rude's motivations were. I just don't do angry sex. And it definitely took away the enjoyment I had from the book!
Rude is definitely the hero, but Sass is the centre of his universe and therefore the life of the book.
I didn't like the way she melted for Rude, yes, but that didn't reduce her strength or sass.
I love a strong heroine.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2017
I couldn't stop thinking about this book whenever I had to put it down. it's like Rude was the epitome of exactly what I love in my heroes. I absolutely wish I had more time so I could sit down and devour everything this author has written. The way Rude pursued Sass was perfect boyfriend example number 1. Then how he was absolute in his unwavering determination to succeed in winning her heart. I loved every single page and my heart broke, it shattered and it healed right along with this beautiful couple. I can't wait to catch up so I can dive into Scorpio because he totally left me mesmerized and curious.
#Safe #EnemiesToLovers #PerfectHero
Safety info
#Safe #EnemiesToLovers #PerfectHero
Safety info
September 26, 2015
⭐️ 4.5 Stars⭐️
*May contain minor spoilers*
♦️BOOK: #4 in the HOUSE OF PAYNE series. Can be read as a standalone. About 325 pages. Kindle loc: 5485
♦️EDITING: a few missing words
♦️POV: dual third person
♦️SETTING: Chicago, Illinois
♦️HERO: Rudolfo/Rudy/Rude Panuzzi, 30--Ex-Marine, currently working in private security. Youngest biological son of Sass's former foster parents. Italian. Big, muscular, scarred, tattooed, with short curling black hair, cognac-colored eyes, long dark lashes, dimples. He's sweet, sexy, determined, tenacious, “aggressively masculine.” Has recently returned from a mission gone bad.
“You have to realize by now that I know what it is to have scars that no one can see. To have them, and to conquer them. That’s why I’m proud of my scars. But baby, I’m even prouder of yours.”
♦️HEROINE: Sassy/Sass/Sage Ambrosia Stone, 28--Dietician, food blogger, has a bestselling cookbook. Joined the Panuzzi family as a teenager and has never been a big fan of Rude. Doesn't do long-term relationships. Ukrainian. Small, petite, long thick dark brown hair, exotic wide-set dark eyes. She's feisty, sarcastic, sassy, independent, stubborn, guarded. A survivor.
“Try not to take it personally, okay? I broke a long time ago, but that had nothing to do with you.”
“It has everything to do with me, since I’m the man who’s going to put you back together.”
♦️PLOT: Though Sass & Rude have never been close or particularly cared for one another, Rude shows up at the ER when Sass gets beaten by an ex-boyfriend. Reluctantly, Sass keeps the peace and agrees to assist Rude in planning Mama Coco & Papa Bolo’s anniversary party, and learns that after 12 years in the Marines and a mission gone wrong, Rude is no longer the same teenage jerk she remembers. Rude may have survived a disastrous mission but he's gotten help, gotten his head right and now he's ready to make things right with Sass, so he implements "Operation Sassy Pants" to win her over. The dynamic between the two changes and Sass finds what she didn't know she needed. Meanwhile, Sass's abusive ex has been brutally murdered and someone is watching them closely.
♦️REVIEW: I love this book and this series! The romance is super sweet, the sexy times are quick but hot, the H's & h's are realistic and likable, the secondary characters are wonderful and supportive, there's no OW/OM drama, the H's are all about their h's and their relationships are strong and solid. Can't wait for Scorpio's story and more from the House.
♦️STEAM LEVEL: hot, 3.5/5 - several explicit sex scenes
♦️ENDING: HEA, Epilogue - 4 months later, No cliffhanger
♦️FUNNY QUOTE:
“How do you handle spiders and bugs?”
“I usually leave the apartment so they can relax and take what they want at their leisure before going on their way. But then I’m afraid they haven’t gone, so I wind up at Scout’s place for an impromptu sleepover." ( ... ) "I’d be smart to invest in a carton of flyswatters and some heavy-duty combat boots made for stomping. Oh, and work on my aim. Everyone knows bugs retaliate if you miss.”
♦️OTHER STUFF: enemies to lovers, H former player but not recently, h has a healthy sex life, H&h don't jump straight into bed, condoms/safe sex, unprotected sex in relationship, child rape & abuse, murder, religious swear words, PTSD, Russian mob
*May contain minor spoilers*
♦️BOOK: #4 in the HOUSE OF PAYNE series. Can be read as a standalone. About 325 pages. Kindle loc: 5485
♦️EDITING: a few missing words
♦️POV: dual third person
♦️SETTING: Chicago, Illinois
♦️HERO: Rudolfo/Rudy/Rude Panuzzi, 30--Ex-Marine, currently working in private security. Youngest biological son of Sass's former foster parents. Italian. Big, muscular, scarred, tattooed, with short curling black hair, cognac-colored eyes, long dark lashes, dimples. He's sweet, sexy, determined, tenacious, “aggressively masculine.” Has recently returned from a mission gone bad.
“You have to realize by now that I know what it is to have scars that no one can see. To have them, and to conquer them. That’s why I’m proud of my scars. But baby, I’m even prouder of yours.”
♦️HEROINE: Sassy/Sass/Sage Ambrosia Stone, 28--Dietician, food blogger, has a bestselling cookbook. Joined the Panuzzi family as a teenager and has never been a big fan of Rude. Doesn't do long-term relationships. Ukrainian. Small, petite, long thick dark brown hair, exotic wide-set dark eyes. She's feisty, sarcastic, sassy, independent, stubborn, guarded. A survivor.
“Try not to take it personally, okay? I broke a long time ago, but that had nothing to do with you.”
“It has everything to do with me, since I’m the man who’s going to put you back together.”
♦️PLOT: Though Sass & Rude have never been close or particularly cared for one another, Rude shows up at the ER when Sass gets beaten by an ex-boyfriend. Reluctantly, Sass keeps the peace and agrees to assist Rude in planning Mama Coco & Papa Bolo’s anniversary party, and learns that after 12 years in the Marines and a mission gone wrong, Rude is no longer the same teenage jerk she remembers. Rude may have survived a disastrous mission but he's gotten help, gotten his head right and now he's ready to make things right with Sass, so he implements "Operation Sassy Pants" to win her over. The dynamic between the two changes and Sass finds what she didn't know she needed. Meanwhile, Sass's abusive ex has been brutally murdered and someone is watching them closely.
♦️REVIEW: I love this book and this series! The romance is super sweet, the sexy times are quick but hot, the H's & h's are realistic and likable, the secondary characters are wonderful and supportive, there's no OW/OM drama, the H's are all about their h's and their relationships are strong and solid. Can't wait for Scorpio's story and more from the House.
♦️STEAM LEVEL: hot, 3.5/5 - several explicit sex scenes
♦️ENDING: HEA, Epilogue - 4 months later, No cliffhanger
♦️FUNNY QUOTE:
“How do you handle spiders and bugs?”
“I usually leave the apartment so they can relax and take what they want at their leisure before going on their way. But then I’m afraid they haven’t gone, so I wind up at Scout’s place for an impromptu sleepover." ( ... ) "I’d be smart to invest in a carton of flyswatters and some heavy-duty combat boots made for stomping. Oh, and work on my aim. Everyone knows bugs retaliate if you miss.”
♦️OTHER STUFF: enemies to lovers, H former player but not recently, h has a healthy sex life, H&h don't jump straight into bed, condoms/safe sex, unprotected sex in relationship, child rape & abuse, murder, religious swear words, PTSD, Russian mob
February 2, 2017
Why have I not read this book before!? It was pretty awesome! I absolutely LOVED the hero! This is exactly how I want my H's to be like. <333
March 10, 2019
DNF at about halfway. Here's what made me disgusted and desperately wish I hadn't spent money on this:
Rude and Sass are in the middle of sex, his phone buzzes, and she gets upset when he goes to check it out. She repeatedly tells him to let her go, she wants up, is begging please (he knows she has been abused and has PTSD, but he continues to hold her down, refusing to let her go) and his response is
"You need to find a way to cope with the fact that sometimes shit doesn’t always go as planned. Being a demanding, high-maintenance bitch isn’t going to change that."
Yep. She has a full blown panic attack, locks herself in the bathroom, begs him to go away and he proceeds to pick the lock and tell her he's not leaving. And then SHE APOLOGIZES TO HIM!!!!!!!!
No. No. No. I am so disgusted with this book, this author and this seemingly never ending trend of men being abusive jerks and the women not only taking it, but continually apologizing for getting upset. Stop it! This is not hot, cool, alpha behaviour. Its disgusting.
Rude and Sass are in the middle of sex, his phone buzzes, and she gets upset when he goes to check it out. She repeatedly tells him to let her go, she wants up, is begging please (he knows she has been abused and has PTSD, but he continues to hold her down, refusing to let her go) and his response is
"You need to find a way to cope with the fact that sometimes shit doesn’t always go as planned. Being a demanding, high-maintenance bitch isn’t going to change that."
Yep. She has a full blown panic attack, locks herself in the bathroom, begs him to go away and he proceeds to pick the lock and tell her he's not leaving. And then SHE APOLOGIZES TO HIM!!!!!!!!
No. No. No. I am so disgusted with this book, this author and this seemingly never ending trend of men being abusive jerks and the women not only taking it, but continually apologizing for getting upset. Stop it! This is not hot, cool, alpha behaviour. Its disgusting.
September 4, 2021
3.5-3.75 stars
One of the best opening chapters I’ve read in a long time. Really good. I’d started reading another book but just wasn’t enjoying it. I knew from the first paragraph that this would be a good book and settled in.
This was a slow burn romance from an enemies stand point.
The h grew up in foster care and at 14, moved in with the H’s family when he was 16. He was not happy about having a foster sister and let it be known.
He went into the military and the h, staying close to her foster family, avoided the H at all costs.
The H had a horrifying ordeal and it changed his perspective on the h and how he’d treated her. Once he got home, he proceeded to begin to make amends.
I found the story lagged through the middle but picked up again towards the end.
One of the best opening chapters I’ve read in a long time. Really good. I’d started reading another book but just wasn’t enjoying it. I knew from the first paragraph that this would be a good book and settled in.
This was a slow burn romance from an enemies stand point.
The h grew up in foster care and at 14, moved in with the H’s family when he was 16. He was not happy about having a foster sister and let it be known.
He went into the military and the h, staying close to her foster family, avoided the H at all costs.
The H had a horrifying ordeal and it changed his perspective on the h and how he’d treated her. Once he got home, he proceeded to begin to make amends.
I found the story lagged through the middle but picked up again towards the end.
June 1, 2020
Twists and turns
This story had some interesting twists in it regarding Sass's parentage. This was also a story of "enemies to lovers"! I love Rude. He went from a miserable teen brat to an amazing man, also a war hero. Sass resists his advances but the author does not let her get away with it for long.
Again, another great read!
This story had some interesting twists in it regarding Sass's parentage. This was also a story of "enemies to lovers"! I love Rude. He went from a miserable teen brat to an amazing man, also a war hero. Sass resists his advances but the author does not let her get away with it for long.
Again, another great read!
January 1, 2016
I always know when going to read a book in this series, make sure I can stay up really late, because inevitably, that is what ends up happening. This was no exception, after polishing off two shorter books this came up next in the line up. It was New Years Eve, and not yet midnight, so I decided to start, just start, to cover the couple hours until the new year. That happened, and then, well, I was well into the next day before setting the book down. So I started 2016 sleeping the morning away, but totally happy that I got to read this story
Yes, the authour acknowledges that while this is in House of Payne, the characters are adjacent to the House. But holy crapoly, thank goodness they needed their story told because it was amazing!!!!!
Sassy hasn't had an easy life, but she has made something for herself instead of wallowing. She has heavy baggage, but keeps moving and handles it in her own way. Strong, she is ever so strong while being completely oblivious to the support all around her, and everyone who sees through her shields.
Rude had a pretty good life growing up, but had some issues while in service that him with his own issues. He worked through them and has an appreciation for his foster sister he never had before. He is back in her life, and while she dismisses whenever she can, he finally hits the point where she has to let him in and he isn't letting go
This begins a most wonderful, sexy and emotional romance. From start to end, these two learn about each other, their pasts, their futures and they find they place in the world. They sort through things together, apart and with their friends and family. It is so sweet in some moments and so emotionally charged in others, and laugh, you will laugh in the most unexpected moments. You will need to have tissues handy as well, there is some bad things in the world, and they have touched both of these people enough to leave scars inside and out
This is a romance, and the chemistry between these two is off the charts. So subtle at times and up to inferno stages at others, it is right there, always simmering ready to come to the surface and drop below, depending on the needs of the situation
Needless to say, I loved the story, love the characters and can't wait for more as promised from the authour in the ending notes, ummmm, Scorpio
Yes, the authour acknowledges that while this is in House of Payne, the characters are adjacent to the House. But holy crapoly, thank goodness they needed their story told because it was amazing!!!!!
Sassy hasn't had an easy life, but she has made something for herself instead of wallowing. She has heavy baggage, but keeps moving and handles it in her own way. Strong, she is ever so strong while being completely oblivious to the support all around her, and everyone who sees through her shields.
Rude had a pretty good life growing up, but had some issues while in service that him with his own issues. He worked through them and has an appreciation for his foster sister he never had before. He is back in her life, and while she dismisses whenever she can, he finally hits the point where she has to let him in and he isn't letting go
This begins a most wonderful, sexy and emotional romance. From start to end, these two learn about each other, their pasts, their futures and they find they place in the world. They sort through things together, apart and with their friends and family. It is so sweet in some moments and so emotionally charged in others, and laugh, you will laugh in the most unexpected moments. You will need to have tissues handy as well, there is some bad things in the world, and they have touched both of these people enough to leave scars inside and out
This is a romance, and the chemistry between these two is off the charts. So subtle at times and up to inferno stages at others, it is right there, always simmering ready to come to the surface and drop below, depending on the needs of the situation
Needless to say, I loved the story, love the characters and can't wait for more as promised from the authour in the ending notes, ummmm, Scorpio
September 24, 2015
Another Winner
I loved this Book Rude was so sexy,caring and a total Alpha he had a few Jerky moments in places but not to many.I also loved how he went through a bad situation and didn't let it defeat him but came out in my opinion stronger and aware of What his Sassy Pants needed.Sassy was a complex Character she was damaged yet not broken she had spirit and she was aware of her issues but fought her battles and Won them they had good chemistry and The Sex was hotter than Fire and their was a sub plot hat will lead to other books I hope stop reading the reviews and go Buy this book.
I loved this Book Rude was so sexy,caring and a total Alpha he had a few Jerky moments in places but not to many.I also loved how he went through a bad situation and didn't let it defeat him but came out in my opinion stronger and aware of What his Sassy Pants needed.Sassy was a complex Character she was damaged yet not broken she had spirit and she was aware of her issues but fought her battles and Won them they had good chemistry and The Sex was hotter than Fire and their was a sub plot hat will lead to other books I hope stop reading the reviews and go Buy this book.
September 25, 2015
3.5 stars
Pretty good. Wished we would've gotten an epilogue more into the future but it all played out nicely.
Pretty good. Wished we would've gotten an epilogue more into the future but it all played out nicely.
May 12, 2016
AWESOME!
July 23, 2018
This is an absolute gem!!!
Reread!
Reread!
May 27, 2018
This is my first book by Stacy Gail and I have not read the other books about House of Payne. This mattered not, as I understood everything and the House of Payne is not mentioned much in this book.
Sass has had a very difficult and traumatizing childhood in the foster care system. When she is a young teenager, she is fostered by the Italian Panuzzi family and she is finally with a loving family. Rude Panuzzi is the youngest son and at first he and Sass are at odds (he is not a bully, mind you) but when he leaves home Sass doesn't really meet him for many years. One day Sass lands in the hospital and Rude shows up and soon he is determined to be a part of her life.
I very much enjoyed the story and the main characters. I think I have a soft spot for heroines with a hard background and Sass has been through a lot. But so has Rude and he understands her (finally). The Russian subplot for me was not necessary.
Sass has had a very difficult and traumatizing childhood in the foster care system. When she is a young teenager, she is fostered by the Italian Panuzzi family and she is finally with a loving family. Rude Panuzzi is the youngest son and at first he and Sass are at odds (he is not a bully, mind you) but when he leaves home Sass doesn't really meet him for many years. One day Sass lands in the hospital and Rude shows up and soon he is determined to be a part of her life.
I very much enjoyed the story and the main characters. I think I have a soft spot for heroines with a hard background and Sass has been through a lot. But so has Rude and he understands her (finally). The Russian subplot for me was not necessary.
August 25, 2018
Romance:4
Steaminess:4
Action/suspense:0
Overall:3.5
Fun read.
So the chemistry between Sass and Rude was great. Rude was a really perfect male lead. Alpha male and super protective. Sass’ character development was also good to read. They both had loads of emotional baggage which I thought was interesting and I’d have liked to have seen the darker side of that. That whole aspect of their life felt left out and I’d have liked a little more elaboration. I’d also have liked a little insight into their childhood relationship.
Steaminess of the book was pretty on point. The action side felt pointless and unnecessary. I’ve never read any other books in this series but I still understood this story as a stand-alone so that’s a plus.
In conclusion, really great chemistry between the leads with engaging writing. I’d have liked it a little darker and it was missing a certain oomph for me.
Steaminess:4
Action/suspense:0
Overall:3.5
Fun read.
So the chemistry between Sass and Rude was great. Rude was a really perfect male lead. Alpha male and super protective. Sass’ character development was also good to read. They both had loads of emotional baggage which I thought was interesting and I’d have liked to have seen the darker side of that. That whole aspect of their life felt left out and I’d have liked a little more elaboration. I’d also have liked a little insight into their childhood relationship.
Steaminess of the book was pretty on point. The action side felt pointless and unnecessary. I’ve never read any other books in this series but I still understood this story as a stand-alone so that’s a plus.
In conclusion, really great chemistry between the leads with engaging writing. I’d have liked it a little darker and it was missing a certain oomph for me.
September 11, 2018
4.5 Must Read Stars
I actually passed on this when it was released, it’s not actually about the House, since I just did a reread before Tag came out I figured I needed to read it.
This was sooooo good I could kick myself for missing this.
I didn’t think I was going to like Rude, previous mentions didn’t impress, I am happy to say I LOVE him. Sass had me going back and forth at first; but when things got really hairy and she wanted to run she stayed. “I’m going to fight for you.”
Interesting storyline with the touch of mystery, steamy, great secondary characters and a H/h you will root for.
I actually passed on this when it was released, it’s not actually about the House, since I just did a reread before Tag came out I figured I needed to read it.
This was sooooo good I could kick myself for missing this.
I didn’t think I was going to like Rude, previous mentions didn’t impress, I am happy to say I LOVE him. Sass had me going back and forth at first; but when things got really hairy and she wanted to run she stayed. “I’m going to fight for you.”
Interesting storyline with the touch of mystery, steamy, great secondary characters and a H/h you will root for.
August 24, 2018
This one has all the things I love in my contemporary romances. There is even a bit of a stalker-mystery, without a crazy kidnapping or whatever. YES! Loved how Rude still got all alpha possessive/protective and wanted to hurt the stalker. I adored Sass, and her attitude. Rude had worked through the darkness in his past, but still felt some guilt towards Sass. It was awesome how they got past that and he helped Sass work through her 'stray' issue. Beautiful. I liked this one just as much as Twist!
June 29, 2018
Rude
Oh my God! I never in a million years thought Rude and Sass would be so perfect for each other. My god that letter from Sass mother what a bimbo she was. I wish she had met her father earlier in the book so we could have gotten to know him more. Oh what's up with Polos line about Dash and good twin evil twin that was odd? Now I'm dying to know who Dash is!
Oh my God! I never in a million years thought Rude and Sass would be so perfect for each other. My god that letter from Sass mother what a bimbo she was. I wish she had met her father earlier in the book so we could have gotten to know him more. Oh what's up with Polos line about Dash and good twin evil twin that was odd? Now I'm dying to know who Dash is!
March 13, 2019
Amazing
This series just get better and better. I loved Rudy and Sass together. There chemistry and constant banter kept me up all night until I reached the end. The ending was great and just made me get the next book in series.
This series just get better and better. I loved Rudy and Sass together. There chemistry and constant banter kept me up all night until I reached the end. The ending was great and just made me get the next book in series.
November 10, 2017
Unique real life story
The words I've read have touched my heart. This story of love is so beautiful. Both Steele and Essie's recovery process make this book such an amazing read.
The words I've read have touched my heart. This story of love is so beautiful. Both Steele and Essie's recovery process make this book such an amazing read.
April 15, 2018
Good story, good characters. I did feel it was a little drawn out and a bit repetitive. Also I thought the series was about the House of Payne which this one was not.
Read
July 5, 2018Spoiler
Note to self-
I'm taking a breather at the point where he didn't let her go and she had a panic attack? Paused because I seriously want to bit@h slap him!
Note to self-
I'm taking a breather at the point where he didn't let her go and she had a panic attack? Paused because I seriously want to bit@h slap him!
February 5, 2019
3.75 stars
March 25, 2019
Sassy and rude
Love this book all new perspective for the strays vs the natural children. Sass is such a strong character and rude compliments her perfectly
Love this book all new perspective for the strays vs the natural children. Sass is such a strong character and rude compliments her perfectly
July 28, 2020
This was my favourite of the series so far. It has twists and turns and sweet moments too.
October 13, 2018
Omg amazing!!! By far the best couple/book in this series thus far. I laughed, I cried and I fell in love with these two! A must read!!!!
September 27, 2015
I am embarrassed to say that this is the first book in this series I have read, I know where have I been !!! I cant believe I haven't noticed this series before now !!! I really have been missing out... I am going to go back and read the full series immediately.
WOW.. what a read !! I don't know where to start,, ok here goes...
I absolutely love Rudy(Rude) & Sass(Sassy), this is their story and Oh my is it beautifully heart-breaking.
Sass was abandoned at birth by her birth mother and since then has been thrown around foster homes, she has lived with some truly awful people, until she is sent to live with the Panuzzi's. They are the most wonderful foster parents any child could ask for.
Sass falls in love with them immediately and loves everything about living there, with the exception of her their youngest son, Rudy. He is awful to her from the moment they meet and do not get along the whole time they live together.
Now all grown up, living in her own home. She has a amazing job, great life and finally she feels like everything in here life is good, she has one rule to not get attached to any man and basically only use them for sex then she walks away with no harm done,, until she ends up in hospital thanks to a ex who wont let her go, he threw her down a flight of stairs and nearly killed her, Rude turns up at the hospital to check on her. He wants to help her and also he wants in her pants and heart...
Rudy was a moody, stubborn teenage boy and hated the fact that his parents took in kinds which meant he had to share the bathroom with girls, basically he is a pain in the butt..
Rude goes in the army and goes through a really traumatic experience which leaves him fighting for his life and also regretting never making up with sass.
So when he gets a message that Sass is in hospital badly beaten, he uses this opportunity to help her and apologise for being awful to her when he was younger... when he sees she for the first time face to face, he is instantly attracted to her and decided her wants her and will do what ever it takes to make her, his..
In this book they go through a lot, old diamonds appear and Sassy's world is turned upside down.. Rude will do what ever it takes to keep her safe including kill if needed.. there are a lot of feels in this book and it really was a great emotional, happy, sad, suspense filled novel..
I just couldn't put it down, it was exceptional and I've never read another book like it. I cant wait to see who stars in the next book ...
Overall A must read, very, very well written... it now one of my favourite books
WOW.. what a read !! I don't know where to start,, ok here goes...
I absolutely love Rudy(Rude) & Sass(Sassy), this is their story and Oh my is it beautifully heart-breaking.
Sass was abandoned at birth by her birth mother and since then has been thrown around foster homes, she has lived with some truly awful people, until she is sent to live with the Panuzzi's. They are the most wonderful foster parents any child could ask for.
Sass falls in love with them immediately and loves everything about living there, with the exception of her their youngest son, Rudy. He is awful to her from the moment they meet and do not get along the whole time they live together.
Now all grown up, living in her own home. She has a amazing job, great life and finally she feels like everything in here life is good, she has one rule to not get attached to any man and basically only use them for sex then she walks away with no harm done,, until she ends up in hospital thanks to a ex who wont let her go, he threw her down a flight of stairs and nearly killed her, Rude turns up at the hospital to check on her. He wants to help her and also he wants in her pants and heart...
Rudy was a moody, stubborn teenage boy and hated the fact that his parents took in kinds which meant he had to share the bathroom with girls, basically he is a pain in the butt..
Rude goes in the army and goes through a really traumatic experience which leaves him fighting for his life and also regretting never making up with sass.
So when he gets a message that Sass is in hospital badly beaten, he uses this opportunity to help her and apologise for being awful to her when he was younger... when he sees she for the first time face to face, he is instantly attracted to her and decided her wants her and will do what ever it takes to make her, his..
In this book they go through a lot, old diamonds appear and Sassy's world is turned upside down.. Rude will do what ever it takes to keep her safe including kill if needed.. there are a lot of feels in this book and it really was a great emotional, happy, sad, suspense filled novel..
I just couldn't put it down, it was exceptional and I've never read another book like it. I cant wait to see who stars in the next book ...
Overall A must read, very, very well written... it now one of my favourite books
September 27, 2015
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review
“She flowed against him like water, melting her curves into him - soft where he was hard, surrounding him with warmth. It was a crazy kind of magic she had, filling all his spaces in a way that was better than any fantasy he’d ever cooked up.”
5 magical stars!!! What a beautiful story!! I was drawn to this story the minute I started it and it was hard to put my kindle down!! I fell in love with the characters and the story!!
The Last Thing She Wanted…
From the moment Sass Stone overheard her social worker call her “broken,” she’s been hell-bent on proving her wrong. A broken woman doesn't have a posse of kickass friends, a foodie lover’s dream job and a string of pretty boys she enjoys playing with. Sure, she has scars, but they’re buried so far down no one even knows they’re there. Certainly her former foster brother, Rudolfo Panuzzi doesn’t know about them. The man she’d dubbed “Rude” could sniff around all he wanted, but it wasn’t going to get him anywhere. He’d never get inside—her pants, or her heart.
…Was The One Thing She Needed
A dozen years and several combat tours in the Marines has a way of maturing a man, and Rude is no exception. His last mission killed his closest friends and almost killed him, leaving him with wounds on both body and soul. When he looks in the mirror, the haunted eyes staring back remind him far too much of his sexy little foster sister, Sass. That’s when he knows there’s more to her than he ever imagined… and he’s imagined one hell of a lot.
When Want And Need Collide
One by one, Rude destroys the defenses that have kept Sass locked inside herself. But even as she reluctantly allows him to coax her out of her shell, a dark cloud casts its shadow on their world. Is it something from his past… or hers?
I loved Rude and Sass’ story so much, probably more than I thought I was going too! This book is part of a series, but you don’t have to read the others first to follow along. I think I’m now in love with this series and a new fan of Stacy Gail!! I can’t wait to read her other books now!!
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
“She flowed against him like water, melting her curves into him - soft where he was hard, surrounding him with warmth. It was a crazy kind of magic she had, filling all his spaces in a way that was better than any fantasy he’d ever cooked up.”
5 magical stars!!! What a beautiful story!! I was drawn to this story the minute I started it and it was hard to put my kindle down!! I fell in love with the characters and the story!!
The Last Thing She Wanted…
From the moment Sass Stone overheard her social worker call her “broken,” she’s been hell-bent on proving her wrong. A broken woman doesn't have a posse of kickass friends, a foodie lover’s dream job and a string of pretty boys she enjoys playing with. Sure, she has scars, but they’re buried so far down no one even knows they’re there. Certainly her former foster brother, Rudolfo Panuzzi doesn’t know about them. The man she’d dubbed “Rude” could sniff around all he wanted, but it wasn’t going to get him anywhere. He’d never get inside—her pants, or her heart.
…Was The One Thing She Needed
A dozen years and several combat tours in the Marines has a way of maturing a man, and Rude is no exception. His last mission killed his closest friends and almost killed him, leaving him with wounds on both body and soul. When he looks in the mirror, the haunted eyes staring back remind him far too much of his sexy little foster sister, Sass. That’s when he knows there’s more to her than he ever imagined… and he’s imagined one hell of a lot.
When Want And Need Collide
One by one, Rude destroys the defenses that have kept Sass locked inside herself. But even as she reluctantly allows him to coax her out of her shell, a dark cloud casts its shadow on their world. Is it something from his past… or hers?
I loved Rude and Sass’ story so much, probably more than I thought I was going too! This book is part of a series, but you don’t have to read the others first to follow along. I think I’m now in love with this series and a new fan of Stacy Gail!! I can’t wait to read her other books now!!
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
May 16, 2016
Once again Stacy Gail has taken a story theme that other authors have failed at and made it work. To be honest she owns it in this one.
Redemption stories are so very popular in the romance genre, but so few authors manage it believably, IMO. Forgiveness is a complicated thing, and earning any form of deep and lasting trust or even love after damaging someone's trust and/or heart is not something that can be rushed, sexed up, or "I've suffered something horrid" pitied out.
SG gets that, and I'm totally in awe how much she gets the emotional repercussions in her characters, that's what makes her work 5 star worthy every time.
I think people might put this as low angst, but it's not really, there's a lot of subtle deeper emotional things going on, sure the sex is off the pages, but just because they are sleeping together does not even come close to meaning that Sassy is ready to trust or commit to Rude.
I honestly believed in this redemption, not just Rude's but Sassy's too and that made this another winner for me.
Thank you Stacy Gail.
Redemption stories are so very popular in the romance genre, but so few authors manage it believably, IMO. Forgiveness is a complicated thing, and earning any form of deep and lasting trust or even love after damaging someone's trust and/or heart is not something that can be rushed, sexed up, or "I've suffered something horrid" pitied out.
SG gets that, and I'm totally in awe how much she gets the emotional repercussions in her characters, that's what makes her work 5 star worthy every time.
I think people might put this as low angst, but it's not really, there's a lot of subtle deeper emotional things going on, sure the sex is off the pages, but just because they are sleeping together does not even come close to meaning that Sassy is ready to trust or commit to Rude.
I honestly believed in this redemption, not just Rude's but Sassy's too and that made this another winner for me.
Thank you Stacy Gail.
February 21, 2017
Holy crumb, guys. HOLY CRUMB. Stacy Gail has the ability to reduce me to tears so easily. It's like her superpower or something. This book was no exception. Sass's story grabbed me and held on tight. It wasn't just the things she'd endured (which were awful), it was that Rude so inadvertently made her crawl back into herself and hide at their first meeting.
My heart seriously broke for both of them.
Especially when Rude realized what he'd done. Years later, sure, but he knew he'd hurt her with his careless teenage anger and he went about trying to repair the damage.
Watching him carefully dismantle her defenses and get her to trust him had to be one of the sweetest things EVER. Because a big, strong Marine who sets his sights on a skittish woman who's perfect for him never fails to hit me in the feels.
Now, this is totally Sass and Rude's story. TOTALLY. And I loved it. But there was this little, minor character who took a turn I wasn't expecting and I am BEYOND excited to know we'll see more of Marco Polo Scorpeone in future books. His own series arc, if I'm reading the signs right. YASSSSSSS!
This is probably my favorite of Stacy Gail's books to date. That's saying a lot since I love the way this woman writes. This entire series has been fantastic and this one was like the cherry on top.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
My heart seriously broke for both of them.
Especially when Rude realized what he'd done. Years later, sure, but he knew he'd hurt her with his careless teenage anger and he went about trying to repair the damage.
Watching him carefully dismantle her defenses and get her to trust him had to be one of the sweetest things EVER. Because a big, strong Marine who sets his sights on a skittish woman who's perfect for him never fails to hit me in the feels.
Now, this is totally Sass and Rude's story. TOTALLY. And I loved it. But there was this little, minor character who took a turn I wasn't expecting and I am BEYOND excited to know we'll see more of Marco Polo Scorpeone in future books. His own series arc, if I'm reading the signs right. YASSSSSSS!
This is probably my favorite of Stacy Gail's books to date. That's saying a lot since I love the way this woman writes. This entire series has been fantastic and this one was like the cherry on top.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
September 24, 2015
What a page turner this book was! Firstly, let me say that this is the first book I have read in this series and I will be going back to read the rest as soon as I can!!
I loved all the characters, but of course my favourites were Rude and Sass. This is their story after all and it is such a beautiful heart wrenching story that Im not ashamed to say I had happy tears at the end.
Sass or Sassy Pants as she is called by Rude, has had a very unpleasant childhood. Her mother gave her up for adoption when she was born and Sass because a 'Stray' in the foster care system.
Most people would never be able to function normally after enduring what Sass did, but she not only survives and functions pretty well, but she is also kick ass at controlling her own life. Well most of the time that is.
Rude is no longer the bratty, nasty 16 year old boy he was when he first met Sass. He has grown and matured and even gone through his own personal hell so knows first hand how hard it is to let go of the past and live in the moment.
Together these two grow into exactly who they are suppose to be. Their love doesn't come easy but I think all the hard work Rude has to do makes their love so much stronger.
This book does contain issues that some are sensitive to so please make sure you are ok with reading about abuse, war and the mafia before you start this amazing story!!
I loved all the characters, but of course my favourites were Rude and Sass. This is their story after all and it is such a beautiful heart wrenching story that Im not ashamed to say I had happy tears at the end.
Sass or Sassy Pants as she is called by Rude, has had a very unpleasant childhood. Her mother gave her up for adoption when she was born and Sass because a 'Stray' in the foster care system.
Most people would never be able to function normally after enduring what Sass did, but she not only survives and functions pretty well, but she is also kick ass at controlling her own life. Well most of the time that is.
Rude is no longer the bratty, nasty 16 year old boy he was when he first met Sass. He has grown and matured and even gone through his own personal hell so knows first hand how hard it is to let go of the past and live in the moment.
Together these two grow into exactly who they are suppose to be. Their love doesn't come easy but I think all the hard work Rude has to do makes their love so much stronger.
This book does contain issues that some are sensitive to so please make sure you are ok with reading about abuse, war and the mafia before you start this amazing story!!
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