From the author of Hidden Heat (“Filled with action, deception, and emotional and sexual tension.”—Publishers Weekly), the Brothers of Mayhem MC rides again in an explosive novel of wounded hearts and undeniable heat. Forget shining armor. Motorcycle shop owner Mary Jane Parker could use a knight in black leather right about now. A local gang has been extorting her for protection money, and standing her ground would be a lot easier with the Brothers of Mayhem at her back. She just needs to convince the club’s new president to take the job. The powerful, brooding biker claims he’s not interested—but if his version of tough love is supposed to be punishment, Mary Jane would gladly misbehave for the rest of her life. Storm Ryder has no interest in rescuing anyone but himself. He spent three agonizing years in prison, and there’s no way in hell he’s going back, not over a spoiled rich girl who’s flirting with trouble. So why does he find himself craving Mary Jane’s lips—and holding her close when he should be pushing her away? Deep down in his tortured soul, Storm knows she’ll be there for him. And when Mary Jane needs him most, he’ll find the courage to give her everything he’s got.Praise for Full Heat “A suspenseful ride with the Brothers of Mayhem . . . Full Heat has plenty of action, angst, and sexual tension to keep you turning pages ’til 2 a.m.”—Gillian Archer, author of Ruthless “Full Heat is gritty, emotional and hot, hot, hot! Storm battles the demons of his past as he finds himself drawn uncontrollably to Mary Jane, and I loved getting lost in their world.”—Brenda Rothert, author of Blown Away“[Full Heat] got me in the feels and ended up being a strong read.”—The Romance Factor “You definitely don’t want to miss the chance to experience to be in the middle of this Storm! It’s like nothing I have ever felt!”—Collector of Book Boyfriends & Girlfriends “I have to give Swafford props. . . . Motorcycles, hot guys, leather and well-written love scenes. This book is a win for romance lovers, especially those who enjoy dirty men doing dirty things.”—Book Mafia Blog “This installment of the Brothers of Mayhem MC is a fast-paced, enjoyable book.”—Romance and Smut “Great story, great ending! Five Stars”—Once Upon An Alpha “Five Hearts . . . Storm and Mary Jane’s romance is fast, steamy hot, and it’s just a matter of time before they crash. Mary Jane’s love is the calm in the raging Storm. Full Heat is a must-read.”—I Heart YA BooksIncludes an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
Carla Swafford loves romance novels, action/adventure movies, and men, and her books reflect that. And that’s not all, she’s crazy about hockey, and thankfully, no one has made her turn in her Southern Belle card. Carla is married to her high school sweetheart and lives in the southeastern U.S.
Be sure to check out her website. You can also find her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and BookBub.
I have written, deleted and rewritten this review about 3 times now. Why? Because I have a really hard time writing reviews for books I don't finish (DNF). Yep, you read that right. I just couldn't do it. I tried. I REALLY tried, multiple times. But between the POV changing back and forth every few pages and the story line having way too many inconsistencies, I had to call it.
Look. Pretty lady of a respectable company that specializes in cars and motorcycles needs protection from a gang threatening her working partner and herself. Said partner "recommends" the Brothers of Mayhem for hire to protect them. Upon trying to decide whether they'd take the case, they walk in on murdered partner in his home. Sounds like it could get interesting, right? I thought so too. Eh....
It was difficult enough to try to get a full understand for each of these characters with the POV changing back and forth so much. But there were a few things that just completely turned me off. Although Mary Jane (yes, another reason to have an issue) had a sheltered life growing up, she was taken in by her family friend and now business partner, learning a lot more about life and becoming comfortable in her own skin. Most would say shy, respectable and rarely having outbursts. Storm (MC President - basically only because of his father and no one seems to like him??) is somewhat attracted to MJ, can't quite put a finger on it, but is so hot and cold with his behavior and attitude (probably trying to keep up the MC show) that you get whiplash. OH...speaking of whiplash. Remember when I said that MJ was this shy, respectable girl? Yeah, well...apparently something snaps because, all of a sudden, she's in a full out fight with Storm's ex lover not 48 hours after she's been in his house. And THAT'S what did it folks.
I'm down for reading fiction and living in an alternate world, but this was just way too difficult for me to wrap my head around and enjoy. Bummer. It sounded so promising too.
*I received this book from the Jeep Diva in exchange for my honest opinion.
After reading the first book in the series, I was really looking forward to Storm's story. Needless to say, I was not disappointed, and in fact, I loved Full Heat even more than Hidden Heat. Storm spent 3 years in prison and endured some unimaginable trauma, which forced him to be and do whatever he had to in order to survive, and of course, punish his tormentors. Now out of jail and the President of The Brothers of Mayhem MC, and he is trying to convince his club brothers to embrace a more legitimate side of business. Enter Mary Jane Parker at this point. She needs protection against a rival gang who is threatening her business. The chemistry between Storm and Mary Jane is off the charts from the moment they met, despite attempts to deny it. Mary Jane suddenly finds herself immersed into a lifestyle she never imagined, with a man she can't resist, a man haunted by his past.
These two go through many trials, face many dangers, and do it in the midst of some intense passion. Their story is captivating and heartbreaking, as these two, along with some really great secondary characters fight for their happily ever after. Definitely check this one out.
***I received a copy of this story from Net Galley for an honest review 4.5*** Full Heat: A Brothers of Mayhem Novel is book 2 in the series but I read it as a standalone. It was easy to get into the story without having any knowledge of the previous story (going back to read book 1 now). Mary Jane Parker and Jimmy need help as the Thirty-Second gang has been targeting their motorcycle shops when she refuses to pay their protection fee and she's worried that it will escalate to very dangerous proportions. Mary Jane goes to the President (Storm) of Brothers of Mayhem motorcycle club ask the Brothers of Mayhem MC group to be their bodyguard against the gang. This book is fast past good read that keeps you in for the whole ride. It was hard to put done once I was started. It was a really good read for me and this was my first time reading anything by this Author. This is not the typical MC novel; I can wait to see if Wolf gets a book next.
A rough and tough MC read about a very young president who is thrown into some bad situations most of which revolve around his father who not only killed his mother but beat both Storm and his sister and then ordered the unthinkable to happen to Storm while he was in prison. His dad, Easy, was president of the Brothers of Mayhem before he was sent to prison for killing Storm’s mom which placed Storm in the presidency spot as soon as he got out of prison for keeping his mouth shut revolving around Brother’s business. Once Storm took over the presidency he tried to get some money for the club by providing protection services for anyone who had money to pay for their expertise. So when Mary Jane was being threatened she turned to the Brothers for their special services. Little did she know that she would get more “services” than she first had thought in the form of dark and sexy Brothers of Mayhem President, Storm Ryder.
Mary Jane had grown up in a commune and was now a business woman who ran multiple motorcycle repair shops with an old family friend, Jimmy. Mary Jane was very close to Jimmy and thought of him as her surrogate grandfather. Mary Jane and Jimmy had to pay money to a gang named the Thirty-seconds and after they missed some payments Jimmy had paid with his life so that led Mary Jane to Storm for his protection. The chemistry between Storm and Mary Jane was pretty intense and neither of them fought off the attraction for very long and ended up meaning more to the other one than was good for them. Storm had his hands full trying to keep the Brothers unified especially once Easy got out of prison and made it his goal to take out the son who he hated.
I don’t think I’ve ever had a person who I despised more than Easy Ryder for everything that he had done in his life. You’ll have to read to see to what extent Easy was depraved by everything he did to Storm. Mary Jane came from a free living commune so how was she ever going to make it in the biker world if she did decide to take a leap of faith with Storm or for that matter did Storm want to pull Mary Jane in to his world? Mary Jane was one hell of a strong woman and to see how she dealt with Storm’s past trauma gave you a really good feeling. This book was filled with drama and sex and left a few doors open as to what the next installment of this series could be about.
This book was provided as an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
Storm has paid his dues to the MC and at a young age finds himself as President. The club is trying to stay on top in a dog eat dog society by making money legitimately. Providing security to those who can afford them Storm is noble enough to try anything that reduces the likelihood of his brothers ending up behind bars. When the prim and proper Mary Jane wants to hire the MC as she's involved in a gang turf war that has caused her heart ache and threatened her business, livelihood and her very life can he refuse a damsel in distress?
Raised by parents that believe in the simple things Mary Jane sees past the bluster of the approaching storm into the heart of it. A man wary of another's touch, on edge she is curious enough to know there's more going on than can be seen. Drawn to him, never scared by his directness she is a balm to his tattered soul. With a gang war declared, the MC is in turmoil torn between the old ways and the new. Loyalties are tested, bonds are broken but can love survive the storm?
Mary Jane is a special type of woman, accepting things she cannot change and rolling with the punches. Wearing her heart on her sleeve she is the missing piece of Storms soul. Storm has survived, become stronger although damaged by all he has experienced. He has paid with his own suffering to be part of the MC and yet it's never enough. The turmoil of club I felt could have been explored more and hopefully will be in further books in the series. I'm intrigued by some of the other characters that were mentioned and introduced and hope they too will get there chance to tell their story. Overall this was a solid read, a little shy on romance but has a raw edgy feel to it. It deals with traumatic issues such as gang rape and the derision others may display. I actually hope the MC gets a visit from karma real soon!
A four star needed a little more respect, loyalty and angst read.
~*~ Netgalley kindly provided a copy for an honest review ~*~
I received a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads
Storm Ryder is the charter president of the Brothers of Mayhem MC, returning from his stint in prison, he's messed up. Having aversions to touch and trust he keeps his two officers close and women disposable. The club is a mess and Storm is trying to get them back on track and legit, he starts hiring out for bodyguard services to earn bank. Mary Jane walks into the club bar with an assurance most women wouldn't possess entering an MC. She needs the club's protection as her motorcycle shops are being threatened by a rival gang. Storm finds himself oddly attracted to the skinny and long legged female, who's definitely not his usual type and takes the job. The story takes a ton of twists and turns! I still have NO clue what side Speed (the head Skull for the MC and Storms foster dad) is on, is he evil or good? And Speed has a long time friendship with Storm's dad, Ryder. Ryder is a downright psychopath and set his son up for a hard time in prison. Ryder is bucking for his place as Pres back and Storm sees a war coming. I found Mary Jane to be a great female character in this story, strong but kind she isn't a pushover and can hold her own, including a nice little cat fight with one of Storm's old flings. I really enjoyed the story and I wonder what the heck is going to happen in the next installment! There are so many ways this could go, Swafford sets up the next book really well!
This is a book from 2016 that a came across in my TBR pile. Opens with Mary Jane Parker going to the Brothers of Mayhem Motorcycle club to ask for protection for her and her boss of 70 years of age Jimmy who owns some shops around town. They are having to pay money to another gang and are now looking for help. Once they finally go back to talk to Jimmy they see he has been killed, also a warning that she is next. Strom the President of the club decodes to protect her. The story takes a turn when Storms' father is released from prison and comes back to the club. His character is more than an awful person he is just evil. Along with a few other characters in the story that moves this book along. This book really does have good and evil. You see that is the good in Mary Parker and also where she grew up. Also, she is someone who can defend herself which added to this story. The sex scenes can at times be intense but go along with the character. You also find out what happened to his sister from the other book. I also was surprised by what happened before the ending leading up to the end. Overall a good book. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
WOW..... just finished it in a marathon reading.....
Storm... is hot..dangerous...distant and damaged.....quite a combination and his story is horrifying and heartbreaking. Mary Jane was raised in a commune with loving parents....almost polar opposite upbringing from his . Mary Jane is in danger from another gang..... (club....) and Storm has been trying to make the club money and taking it in a different direction.....he is also one of the youngest MC leaders that I have ever read in a story, giving the storyline a different side......
There is ALOT of angst and heartbreak and true horror as secrets unfold, I was so excited to find a couple of the characters from the previous book....and am crossing my fingers that perhaps the next book will star Wolf....I do not want to spoil... I feared in parts of the secrets that would unfold and I was "close" in my fear. It is a wonderful angsty book .... bravo Carla!~
Last thing.... I want Easy's head on a spike...and his privates in his ear....
Thank you Carla Swafford and netgalley for another amazing read~
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I love that this book sucks in you from page one and I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. It’s super hot and I loved it!
Storm is an angry man after having been through so much in life and being unable to handle it all. The only thing that keeps Storm sane is Mary Jane. Mary Jane is the local motorcycle shop owner and when a local gang threatens her she seeks help from the Brother of Mayhem. Though Storm makes it his life’s mission to protect Mary Jane at all cost he also sometimes takes his anger out on her, even though she doesn’t deserve it. Mary Jane stands by his side and more importantly stands up for herself.
This is definitely an emotional read and I really enjoyed it. I love that Mary Jane stays strong and stands up for herself. I also love that the author brings back Thorn and Cassidy from the previous book without making it confusing for those who may not have read book 1. I look forward to the next book in the series!
This is a very gritty and dark story. Mary Jane is the only light and she sure takes a great deal of hits throughout the book.
Storm has been through so much and is very traumatized and he had a great deal of anger in him. He doesn't really know how to cope with it all. But if you have been assaulted in many ways regularly for almost a year you can see why. He is very young and spent 3 years in jail. My heart goes out to him. Throughout the story his world crumbles and his only anchor is Mary Jane.
Storm dies treat Mary Jane badly at times, but she stands by him and forgives him. I am glad she stands up for herself though and realizes she doesn't need him to survive or live her life. She was a strong character and I liked that she stayed true the whole way.
Again a very emotional and difficult read at times, so it is not for everyone.
Received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley for a honest review.
I received a copy of this story from NetGalley for an honest review.
Where do I start, it's hard to say, this story was completely different than I expected and not in a good way for me, it left me feeling sad, even though there was a happy ending...there was just so much I didn't like in the story that it's hard for me to give a good review. My confusion arises from the fact that I'm not really sure how to rate the book, am I judging to hard because I don't like aspects of the book? I think mostly it just didn't come together for me, it wasn't smooth story, both MC were likeable yet I just couldn't connect, they were trying to hard. I Also usually like biker books were the club are brother/family, I really didn't get that here, and maybe that was the main point but I didn't work for me. I think this is one of those books you either really like or you don't, I just didn't
Great read! I could not put this book down. It's got romance, danger, steamy hot love scenes, and a great story. I was completely engrossed in this book and cared deeply about these characters. Storm has lived through hell and is the president of an outlaw motorcycle club but he is still basically a good man with a caring heart. Mary Jane is the warmhearted free spirit who soothes Storm's demons. I loved these characters who happen to have phenomenal chemistry. This is the second book I have read by Carla Swafford, the first being Hidden Heat, book one of this series (and another great read), and I love the way she writes. I can't wait to read Wolf's story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A good, enjoyable read. I loved the heroine and her tough self. She was kind of quirky. I enjoyed seeing her help heal the hero and in the way she did that. The hero had some past trauma he needed to overcome and once he met her, he was able to find peace. They have some obstacles to prevail over before they are able to get their happy ending, but they do.There were some hot sex scenes in this book. I look forward to reading other characters' stories. ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Full of heat is another Brother of Mayhem MC novel. This one is about the brother who wanted by all means to become member of the MC. A few years later his wish is granted but he paid a really huge price for it. Storm wants that club run more legit business with providing security. That’s how he meets Mary Jane which has problem with rival gang. They are both interesting character well develop with interesting past. I liked them both and I loved that stayed together in the end. A good MC read. *ARC provided by Netgalley and author in exchange for an honest review
This story has a lot of heat and a romping good time. It is part of a series, but it is a standalone. Storm fights to deal with his painful past and learns that he wants more. Mary Jane accepts his past and who he has become. Together, they learn that their love is strong and can last. I recommend this story.
I received this story through Netgalley for an honest review.
BOOK REVIEW: Full Heat: A Brother’s of Mayhem Novel BOOK SERIES: Brothers of Mayhem #2 AUTHOR: Carla Swafford GENRE: Contemporary Romance PUBLICATION DATE: July 19, 2016 CLIFF HANGER: No
4 Stars
SYNOPSIS: From the author of Hidden Heat (“Filled with action, deception, and emotional and sexual tension.”—Publishers Weekly), the Brothers of Mayhem MC rides again in an explosive novel of wounded hearts and undeniable heat.
Forget shining armor. Motorcycle shop owner Mary Jane Parker could use a knight in black leather right about now. A local gang has been extorting her for protection money, and standing her ground would be a lot easier with the Brothers of Mayhem at her back. She just needs to convince the club’s new president to take the job. The powerful, brooding biker claims he’s not interested—but if his version of tough love is supposed to be punishment, Mary Jane would gladly misbehave for the rest of her life.
Storm Ryder has no interest in rescuing anyone but himself. He spent three agonizing years in prison, and there’s no way in hell he’s going back, not over a spoiled rich girl who’s flirting with trouble. So why does he find himself craving Mary Jane’s lips—and holding her close when he should be pushing her away? Deep down in his tortured soul, Storm knows she’ll be there for him. And when Mary Jane needs him most, he’ll find the courage to give her everything he’s got.
MY THOUGHTS: This is the first time I have read this author. This is the second book in the series, but can be read as a stand-alone. I liked the book enough to want to read the next book in this series, and to go back and read the first book.
Storm
The story flowed, I liked the characters of Storm and Mary Jane, but Storm’s father was the worst human being. I don’t think the man had a soul the way he treated his children, beat his wife to death while Storm and sister watched. He continued to torment and goad Storm at every turn. Storm was just barely a patched member when he was sent to prison after being set up by an undercover cop that was part of the MC. He was to serve 6 months, but ended up serving three years because he was fighting. Believe me he had reason. What that man endured in prison was horrendous and who was behind it was even more heinous! Storm doesn’t want to be touched because of his physical and psychological abuse as a child at the hands of his father and the abuse he endured in prison. He had sex with the club women when they were allowed in the club, but he wouldn’t let them touch him, he did the touching. Until he met Mary Jane. She was different. She was a smart, caring, free spirit that ran businesses that were being extorted by a gang, not another MC.
Mary Jane
Mary Jane was raised in a commune by loving parents. She was a balm to Storm’s tortured soul. She was a strong heroine that knew what she wanted and that was Storm. She fell in love with the beautiful man with the tortured soul! The chemistry is off the charts with these two and Mary Jane is patient with his no touching rule. Mary Jane is easy going and has a peaceful approach to life, but she is no push over and can stand up for herself not only verbally, but she has strong self-defense skills.
Now, what I had a problem with. His MC brothers didn’t respect his authority and undermined him at every turn. In a way, it added to the drama of the story so I am conflicted. Storm tried to work a peace treaty with the street gang, when his dad, other MC members and the National President of the MC wanted war. I had a real problem with the brotherhood not standing by him, but this is like real life, I guess. I also had a hard time with Storm pushing Mary Jane away repeatedly. Again, this added to the drama of the story.
I won’t tell you anymore because you need to read this book for yourself. It was a good read and it held my attention. There was drama, hot sexy times, and humor. Now remember this is subjective. Every reader has a take on a book that’s different from someone else. That’s why you should read it for yourself and draw your own conclusions. I am definitely going to read the next book in the series. There is no cliffhanger and the author set up the story perfectly for the next book.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review and here it is: 4 stars.
Full Heat is the second novel in the Brothers of Mayhem series, and picks up some time later than where the first novel, Hidden Heat, left off. The hero in this novel is Storm Ryder, the brother of Cassidy Ryder, who was the heroine in Hidden Heat, and the Storm we meet again in this novel is now 21, has been president of the Brothers of Mayhem MC for barely 6 months, since he was recently released after spending three years in prison--although originally only sentenced to several months. His drunken, abusive father, Eddie, who was the previous president has been in prison for years, which makes young Storm his successor. To say that Storm has a chip on his shoulder is like calling a grain of sand a boulder. He's got a number of odd quirks--he doesn't drink, he's trying to get the MC into legal pursuits, like working as bodyguards, he doesn't allow women into the clubhouse, and his most obvious quirk and issue is his inability to tolerate being touched by anyone.
Then we meet Mary Jane Parker, age 23. Raised in a commune by her parents, she's a virgin, she's shy, quiet and an optimist--none of which prepares her for her first encounter with Storm. Her business partner/employer in several motorcycle repair and parts supply businesses, Jimmy, age 70-something, has been fascinated by and has researched MC clubs for years, and he's been paying protection money to the Thirty-Second MC for some time, and wants it to end. He sends Mary Jane to the Brothers of Mayhem to hire them as bodyguards, but when Storm, who's immediately attracted to Mary Jane, accompanies her to discuss the matter with Jimmy, they find that he's been murdered, and so it begins.
This novel is much darker than the first in the series, and deals with a subject many may find distasteful. The sex is explicit, there's far more graphic violence, and I wouldn't recommend this one for the under-18 reader or the faint of heart. It is, however, a good read, with well-developed characters, but there are several reasons I didn't give this one a 5-star rating. First, I felt that 21-year old Storm was too young in years to have the wherewithal to clean up the MC, ban women from the clubhouse, and stand up to and earn the respect of its much older members, regardless of his heritage. He's also far too accomplished sexually to be totally believable. Sheltered and virginal Mary Jane is also inconsistent. She goes from being a sweet innocent to a hungry, sex-obsessed brawler in the space of 48 hours, and this reader's willing suspension of disbelief was stretched almost to its limits.
Those issues aside, the story, its characters, its drama and angst kept me deeply involved until the end, and it also sets up the probable featured MC member who seems to have disappeared as this novel reaches its conclusion. So, with some reservations, I believe it earned its 4 star rating.
Carla welcomes me once again in the wonderful and addicting world of the Brothers of Mayhem with the story of the one and only, Storm Ryder!
Full Heat takes place almost 3 years after Hidden Heat has its epilogue. This time, the heroes who fall under Cubic’s spell are Storm Ryder, Cassidy’s brother, and Mary Jane Parker. Storm, who we saw him end up in prison in the end of the previous book, now he’s the Prez of the Brothers of Mayhem MC and has set as their description the body guarding of whoever needs it. And that’s the link which will bring Mary Jane at his doorstep and the chance to finally find what he didn’t know he wanted the most. Mary Jane is a co-owner of a mechanic shop. After she and her partner start getting threats from another MC, they turn to Storm and his brothers to help them.
And the “falling hopelessly in love” part of the plan is set in motion. From the very start, they both develop a deep connection and every second they spend together their feelings become more and more strong. As for the chemistry between them? Plain. B U R N I N G. HOT!!!! Both IN&OUT of the bedroom. ;) What they share is pretty mind-blowing for everyone who gets to see it.
Her touch was better than drugs.
Swafford once again gave me a story with characters who have such unique personalities and so many intriguing layers that take everything on the next level. The incompleteness and harshness I experienced when I read them when they were apart, were crashed to the ground when they were together. At those moments, every ounce of love, gentleness, passion, desire they possessed inside them shadowed everything negative that was happening. The intensity which was been created during those moments was undoubtedly overwhelming. My body was under its power in a constant base and it felt every part of every emotion Storm and Mary Jane gone through. And if I had to choose one word to describe this book and the story it tells, then, without second thought, the best one would be what exactly what Carla very successfully named her Full Heat male: STORM.
And you definitely don’t want to miss the chance to experience to be in the middle of this Storm! ;) It’s like nothing I have ever felt!
Recommendation: Yes. Motorcycles, hot guys, leather and well written love scenes. This book is a win for romance lovers, especially those who enjoy dirty men doing dirty things.
Type: Series but each novel can be read as a stand alone, this is book two in the Brothers of Mayhem series.
Summary: +interesting plot +more emotion that expected -unresolved plot holes *trigger topics +well written dialogue +great chemistry between mains -mediocre yet sweet ending +HEA with no cliffhanger
Full Review:
Full Heat is the second book in the Brothers of Mayhem series by Carla Swafford and after reading it, I am tempted to pick up the first novel in the series because my goodness it is spicy. Not for the tame of heart, Full Heat brings the explosion of chemistry that is created when a hot,alpha male motorcycle club president and timid yet free-spirited, good girl gone bad meet and their world's collide. Now I know what you are thinking..hasn't this been done before?
Several aspects of this book make it stand apart from others in the same genre. Our main man Storm is more than he seems. With a torturous past and almost every obstacle imaginable standing in his way, this story follows his fight to defeat his inner demons and survive the continuous violence he faces every day. I did enjoy reading this and completed it in one sitting. Surprisingly, I was not expecting some of deeper and darker happenings that occurred in this book. I felt a bit at odds because my mind couldn't really fathom that a book with such intense desire and positive sexual tension also contained triggers like sexual assault and domestic violence. The stark contrast between the two ends of the spectrum helped to create a better picture of what our character's were feeling but at the same time, made me want to shy away. I can't imagine how someone would overcome that type of trauma.
Certain aspects of this book drove me a little nuts. There are several un-resolved issues that weren't fully addressed. There is a certain injustice one feels when an antagonist doesn't get what is coming to them. I just wanted to reach through my e-reader and pummel half the characters in this book. It seriously put me in a semi-foul mood after reading it, only because I felt like Storm and Mary Jane deserved MORE than that. They were owed more. The ending was sweet, but not super consistent with what I expected the character to do though. I have to give Swafford props, to be able to manipulate the emotions of the reader takes some skill and even my husband was making fun of my mood swings. Luckily, this doesn't have a cliffhanger so my e-reader was able to live another day.
Disclaimer: I obtained a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Carla Swafford and Random House Publishing Group-Loveswept
Full Heat was gritty, suspenseful and angst filled something I’d expect in an MC story. But that’s not what drew me into this one. What drew me in were the two very unique, complexed characters that we get in this story and subject matter you don’t see every day but one that this author was not afraid to write about. There is a promise of a love so pure and real that it was hard not to feel good have hope throughout this story. The authors writing, words and descriptions keep me glued to this book and eager to see how things would end.
Mary Jane’s character at first glance comes off as shy, innocent and sheltered but right from the start I knew there was much more to this girl. Mary Jane was a strong and fearless character, I say this because she walked into a biker bar to seek protection from a biker MC known to be dangerous. She was not afraid to face off with Storm and despite her sexual attraction to him, she was no push over. Reluctantly she manages to get Storm to agree to protect after the murder of her business partner and is emerged in the very harsh and male dominated MC world and right into Storms path.
Storm was a character that I wanted to jump into my Kindle and hug. Storm has to appear to be strong, fearless, indifferent and cold hearted in front of his MC. He has suffered a very traumatic and brutal attack while in jail. He has so much anger, resentment and harsh memories that plague him. My heart literally broke for him. Running a MC leaves him little time to really focus on his past, but as soon as Mary Jane crosses his path a sense of peace of calm overcomes him.
Storm is confused with his feelings for Mary Jane but he can’t seem to stay away. Storm will do anything to protect the woman that brings him peace but he also knows the evil he hides and the danger his world brings. I loved the seeing the very vulnerable side to this big bad biker. He tries to push Mary Jane and often times treats her badly but Storm never expected this force to come into his life. Mary Jane saw the man behind the MC President, the man that has a heart of gold. She accepts the darkness in him and welcomes it. She understands his past and doesn’t hold it against him. When the danger nearly takes Mary Jane from him, he is forced to make a decision that might cost him his light. Can Storm keep his promise to protect Mary Jane? This was such a great story. One that kept me engaged and invested. One I would definitely recommend.
I received an free ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Mary Jane needs protection from a local MC extorting from her business. She resisted but in retaliation they have killed her partner Jimmy, a man she grew up with, who was like a grandfather to her. She decides to go to the Brothers of Mayhem for help.
The Brother's president Storm has spent the last 3 years in prison along with others from his MC. He wants the club to get into more legal ways so earn money so he has gone into the bodyguard business. Mary Jane comes to him, to hire them for her protection. He doesn't really want to take her on as a client for several reasons, one of them being how attracted he is to her and how protective he feels toward her.
Can he keep her safe? Can they deny their attraction or walk away when the time comes?
Mary Jane basically grew up in a commune while Storm is a product of the MC life. While she felt truly love, a normal day for Storm was being back-handed by his father. Storm's father is actually in prison for killing his mother. Needless to say, he hates him.
Complications will arise, testing this couple. The release of Storm's father from prison and his return to the MC, the resistance from the MC to go legit and a rival MC.
Storm truly went through hell in prison and has some serious issues because of it. He handles issues really well for someone from such a rough background which shows his intelligence. Mary Jane is perfect for him because she gives all of herself and isn't needy. Sure, she wants his love but can give him the space and support he needs. For the first time in his life, Storm is getting love.
I totally did not expect the end of the book...and that's all I can say because I don't like spoilers!! I loved this book, as I did the one before it. It really gave me a real sense of realizing how beautiful life can be!
Storm Rider was the president of a chapter of the Brothers Of Mayhem MC and the club owned the Skull And Bones bar. Mary Jane was twenty three and had come looking for Storm. When Storm looked at Mary Jane she looked like a suppressed librarian and thought she was a stripper.Mary Jane is Jimmy Marcus partner and Jimmy is seventy. Jimmy had heard the club hired out as body guards. Jimmy had been threatened by a gang called the Thirty Seconds. Mary Jane and Jimmy owned Marcus Parker Motorcycle Repair Shops and sponsor Blaine Flyer’s NASCAR team. The Thirty Second Gang hated anything to do with motorcycles because they lost a brother was killed by a biker. Storm agreed to go back and talk terms with Jimmy and some of his men went with him. But when they got there they found Jimmy had been murdered. Storm stayed with Mary Jane even though he was put in cuffs. But he was released that evening but he also felt protective of Mary Jane and waited for her by her car. There he convinced her to go with him. Storm toke Mary Jane to the club house where he had made a rule no women. But for some reason Storm felt protective of Mary Jane as well as very attracted . Mary Jane also felt the very same overwhelming attraction to Storm. I really loved this story. It was great. The only thing I thought you had to die to cut ties with this type of MC. It just seemed Storm knew to much and the way Easy was about him…. Also how could Speed who was President of all the Brothers of Mayhem be so blind where Easy was concerned and not listen to Storm. But that is just how I feel. Especially when Storm went to prison for the club. Anyway I loved the ins and outs of the story especially the ones of Mary Jane and Storm. I recommend I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
Carla Swafford surprised me with this contemporary look at an MC and its leaders. She’s always had a knack for making the taboo seem normal; in this book, she wrote about a controversial subject with heart and heat–creating a love story for a man that really needed one.
Mary Jane Parker needed help. She and her partner Jimmy Marcus had been threatened by a gang called Thirty Seconds, and they needed protection in a bad way because they refused to pay protection money. Luckily, Jimmy had found the Brothers of Mayhem motorcycle club who were doing a brisk sideline business as bodyguards. Before she could bring their leader, Storm Ryder, back to the office, Jimmy was killed, which left Mary Jane in a world of hurt. She needed someone to keep her safe and ensure justice was found for Jimmy’s murder. Plus she needed to protect her businesses.
Storm Ryder was new to heading up the MC, and it had been his idea for them to pull some legal money acting as bodyguards. What he hadn’t counted on was how attracted he was to Mary Jane.
When dark forces within the MC bubble up and threaten to overthrow the relative peace he’d created, Storm begins to worry that the danger surrounding them will destroy him and Mary Jane. Could he have a future and have Mary Jane too?
All that’s left for him to do is choose the safest path for the future–for him, Mary Jane…and the club. Great emotional read that covered issues including rape and murder. I liked it much more than some other MC books I’ve read thanks to Carla’s writing skill. The plot was authentic and deeply touching. Thanks!
***I received a copy of this book via Net Galley and Random House-Loveswept in exchange for an honest review***
Full Heat: A Brothers of Mayhem Novel is book 2 in the series but I read it as a standalone. It was easy to get into the story without having an knowledge of the previous story.
Mary Jane Parker needs help as the Thirty-Second gang has been targeting her motorcycle shops when she refuses to pay their protection fee and she's worried that it will escalate to a very dangerous proportions that will cause loss of life. Her mentor and business partner Jimmy Marcus suggests she ask the Brothers of Mayhem MC group to be their bodyguard against the gang. But when she enters the bar owned by the Brothers, Storm Ryder, thinks she's there for his pleasure.
Storm Ryder has only been out of prison for a few weeks and is having a hard time keeping out of fights even though some of them are needed. Little does he know that when he meets Mary Jane Parker that his life will change forever. Later on when his father is released from prison, a secret is revealed that could make him make a decision that could change everyone's lives.
I really loved the love story between both Storm and Mary Jane and how she decides to fight back against the havoc that the Thirty-Seconds cause to her business. But its Storm that needs the love of this very strong woman to help him heal from the inside out. Will they survive as a couple? You'll have to read the book to find out.
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
Storm goes into jail a prospect comes out the president of The Brother's of Mayhem. A president that doesn't seem to carry much weight and isn't respected. Mary Jane and Jimmy need protection from the Thirty Second Gang, they've threatened to kill them if they go to someone else. Mary Jane goes to Storm and asks for them to help her and Jimmy. When they get back, Thirty Second was good on their threat and kill Jimmy leaving a note saying Mary Jane is next.
Storm brings her back to the club house to protect her. Storm had a horrible childhood and carries a ton a baggage from that. He finds out his father was just released from prison and wants to take over the club. Mary Jane grew up in a commune and has her own issues, but can stand her ground with Storm.
This one just wasn't for me. I enjoyed the beginning and thought it had a great premise but the story plot seemed to go a bit haywire from there. In the MC genre I understand trying to go out of the box, doing something different that puts you outside of the rest but for me it just didn't work. I really wanted to like this one more.
This one was just as good as the last Brothers of Mayhem book. It kinda picks up a few years after the last one left off with Storm taking over the MC after his stint in prison. He is trying to lead the club down a more legal path so nobody goes back to prison.. But between his cold hearted bastard of a father and over all club prez who happens to be dear old dads bff he is struggling. Mary Jane is looking for protection from extortionist after her and her partner. After meeting Storm and trying to convince him to be their bodyguards they go back to her place and they find her partner dead. This sets of a chain of events that leads to Storm, who can't stand being touched unless he is the one controlling it, to take Mary Jane to the clubhouse to protect her. All odds seem to be against them but with her patience and the love and caring she shows to Storm they fall head over heels. It was interesting to see how her time in a commune gave her the strength and inner peace to help Storm through his inner "storm". Even with his gruffness and the way he wouldn't let her touch him. I also enjoyed the reappearance of Cassidy, Storms sister and her family. It brought the first book full circle.
I received this book free from Netgalley on behalf of Random House Publishing Group – Loveswept in exchange for an honest review*
Mary Jane Parker co-owns a motorcycle shop that is having to pay protection money to a local gang. When she decides enough is enough she is asked to go talk to the President of The Brothers of Mayhem motorcycle club to get protection against the local gang. While trying to get the President to agree they discover that the owner of the motorcycle shop has been killed for not paying the dues.
Storm Ryder is the new local President of the Brothers of Mayhem MC. Storm is having a hard time adjusting to civilization after being in prison for talking the fall for the club. When this woman walks in to discuss protection his interest is peaked and he cannot take his eyes off of her.
Dang, this was a very intense read. I was on the edge the entire time I was reading just trying to discover what was going to happen next. Between Storm trying to do what’s right for the club, his father trying to interfere and discovering the truth about Storm and why he is the way he is had me on a reading binge! This is the second book in the series and I cannot wait to find out where this roller coaster takes us.