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Bourbon & Blood #2
Clayton
My father, Samuel Darcy, wrecked everything he touched—the business, our family, my mother. I knew if I didn't stop him he'd destroy it all. So I got down and dirty, stopped playing by the rules, and rolled .in the mud right along with him. I bartered my soul, and in the end, I lost the one thing that I wanted most in this world.... my wife.
Six months ago, Annalee gave me an ultimatum. Tell her about my secrets, or move out. I can’t confess to her that I’ve done shady business dealings to ruin my own father. In the end I let her go.
But now? Now I can have her back. Taking down my dad, I learned that you don’t get what you want by following the rules. What I want now is my wife back. I want her back in my life and in my bed….I’m playing to win, and I’ll fight as dirty as I have to.
Six months ago, Annalee gave me an ultimatum. Tell her about my secrets, or move out. I can’t confess to her that I’ve done shady business dealings to ruin my own father. In the end I let her go.
But now? Now I can have her back. Taking down my dad, I learned that you don’t get what you want by following the rules. What I want now is my wife back. I want her back in my life and in my bed….I’m playing to win, and I’ll fight as dirty as I have to.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 24, 2016
10 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Chasity Bowlin
142 books523 followersUSA Today Best Selling author and Winner of the 2019 Romance Through the Ages Award for Georgian/Regency Romance, Chasity Bowlin is the author multiple bestselling historical romance novels, both independently and with Dragonblade Publishing. She lives in central Kentucky with her husband and their menagerie of animals. She loves writing, loves traveling and enjoys incorporating tidbits of her actual vacations into her books. She is an avid Anglophile, loving all things British, but specifically all things Regency.
Growing up in Tennessee, spending as much time as possible with her doting grandparents, soap operas were a part of her daily existence, followed by back to back episodes of Scooby Doo. Her path to becoming a romance novelist was set when, rather than simply have her Barbie dolls cruise around in a pink convertible, they time traveled, hosted lavish dinner parties and one even had an evil twin locked in the attic.
Growing up in Tennessee, spending as much time as possible with her doting grandparents, soap operas were a part of her daily existence, followed by back to back episodes of Scooby Doo. Her path to becoming a romance novelist was set when, rather than simply have her Barbie dolls cruise around in a pink convertible, they time traveled, hosted lavish dinner parties and one even had an evil twin locked in the attic.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 6, 2017
Review to come. Liking the series I just didn't like the heroine. Thinking on it
March 31, 2016
2.5-3 stars
First thing first.... I thought Clayton would have picked up right where Bennett had left off. I HATE to reread events in series books. Just from different people's POV.
Yes... You get different stories. But ultimately the main story is that of the first book.
Unfortunately... These kind of stories just don't work for me.
I hate to say this... But I was skimming some parts of this book. I just wasn't feeling the whole rereading certain events in this book. I just wish we could have moved on from the last book.
I'll just jump right on to my review.
I felt bad for Clayton in the first book...Really bad! Everything he did for his family to help save the distillery. Everything he sacrificed with his wife and kid.
I was really rooting for him in that first book!
I really couldn't wait to read this book because I wanted to know how Clayton was going to win his wife back!
But having read the first 10% of this book. I'm not feeling him at all! How he treats his wife... was just horrible! Everything that he said to her. Just did not sit well with me.
Then you have Annalee. Playing a little game to try and get him back. Seriously... Why would she even want to get back with him when he's done nothing but push her away for months. Snapped at her because he can't handle all the pressure of everything that going on with his father and the distillery.
This just doesn't seem like the same guy I read in the first book.
73% in I say... Is where I started to grab on into this story. It seemed new to me. Which is what I was looking for in this book since the beginning.
I don't know... I have a hard time accepting how Annalee & Clayton just get back together once all is revealed. I mean... A whole year of Clayton treating Annalee like crap. I just wasn't feeling it.
I also wasn't feeling how everything played out with the father. It was like he just got away with everything.
This book was really hard on me. I LOVED the first book so much! But this book just wasn't what I was expecting.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
First thing first.... I thought Clayton would have picked up right where Bennett had left off. I HATE to reread events in series books. Just from different people's POV.
Yes... You get different stories. But ultimately the main story is that of the first book.
Unfortunately... These kind of stories just don't work for me.
I hate to say this... But I was skimming some parts of this book. I just wasn't feeling the whole rereading certain events in this book. I just wish we could have moved on from the last book.
I'll just jump right on to my review.
I felt bad for Clayton in the first book...Really bad! Everything he did for his family to help save the distillery. Everything he sacrificed with his wife and kid.
I was really rooting for him in that first book!
I really couldn't wait to read this book because I wanted to know how Clayton was going to win his wife back!
But having read the first 10% of this book. I'm not feeling him at all! How he treats his wife... was just horrible! Everything that he said to her. Just did not sit well with me.
Then you have Annalee. Playing a little game to try and get him back. Seriously... Why would she even want to get back with him when he's done nothing but push her away for months. Snapped at her because he can't handle all the pressure of everything that going on with his father and the distillery.
This just doesn't seem like the same guy I read in the first book.
73% in I say... Is where I started to grab on into this story. It seemed new to me. Which is what I was looking for in this book since the beginning.
I don't know... I have a hard time accepting how Annalee & Clayton just get back together once all is revealed. I mean... A whole year of Clayton treating Annalee like crap. I just wasn't feeling it.
I also wasn't feeling how everything played out with the father. It was like he just got away with everything.
This book was really hard on me. I LOVED the first book so much! But this book just wasn't what I was expecting.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2016
Walking away from your life, your wife, your child, your happiness is hard, but doing it to protect them makes it even harder. Clayton wants revenge on his father, while the hiding and lies, Annalee does what she needs and asks for a divorce.
Clayton and Annalee both love each other deeply and passionately. Clayton, who wants revenge on his father, has pulled away from his family. Annalee knows her husband is distant, knows there is lies. She gives him his chance to come clean, to protect her he doesn't talk. Annalee asks for a divorce and Clayton walks away. Through this book, lies are exposed, love is what drive's this story, people are hurt, and sometimes the enemies offer the help you need. What I love about these two main characters is, no matter the anger or disappointment, they are always there for one another. Every time they are together, the love is so apparent. Clayton wants to love his family, and be whole again. But saving the family business his father destroyed, protecting his mother, and uncovering his father's lies has taken over all areas of his life. Annalee wants her husband back, she wants the passion, the man he was before his father destroyed everything. You will travel a road of two people who love each other, but, life happened.
I did not read the first book in this series, but I will now, I would say reading the first book may help as I was slightly confused on details I am sure held more details. Seraphina Donovan pulls you in with love, lies, and betrayal. The Supporting characters will leave you begging for their books, I am rooting for Quentin next, as he is very interesting and seeing him fall hard, will be exciting to read about. The story is heart wrenching, you will feel the pain both Annalee and Clayton feel, you will get angry, you will cry, but overall you will walk away knowing love can overcome anything. This 4-star book is well written and definitely an author I will be watching to read more of her work.
Clayton and Annalee both love each other deeply and passionately. Clayton, who wants revenge on his father, has pulled away from his family. Annalee knows her husband is distant, knows there is lies. She gives him his chance to come clean, to protect her he doesn't talk. Annalee asks for a divorce and Clayton walks away. Through this book, lies are exposed, love is what drive's this story, people are hurt, and sometimes the enemies offer the help you need. What I love about these two main characters is, no matter the anger or disappointment, they are always there for one another. Every time they are together, the love is so apparent. Clayton wants to love his family, and be whole again. But saving the family business his father destroyed, protecting his mother, and uncovering his father's lies has taken over all areas of his life. Annalee wants her husband back, she wants the passion, the man he was before his father destroyed everything. You will travel a road of two people who love each other, but, life happened.
I did not read the first book in this series, but I will now, I would say reading the first book may help as I was slightly confused on details I am sure held more details. Seraphina Donovan pulls you in with love, lies, and betrayal. The Supporting characters will leave you begging for their books, I am rooting for Quentin next, as he is very interesting and seeing him fall hard, will be exciting to read about. The story is heart wrenching, you will feel the pain both Annalee and Clayton feel, you will get angry, you will cry, but overall you will walk away knowing love can overcome anything. This 4-star book is well written and definitely an author I will be watching to read more of her work.
June 28, 2016
I started reading the Bourbon & Blood series because, well, I'm a Kentuckian, and bourbon is what we do. I started out reading Ciaran a good while back, and then read Bennett. But this book surprised me. I always connect with Ms. Donavan's characters, but this Darcy in particular really resonated with me. Clayton is a guy who'll do whatever, and I do mean whatever, he has to in order to protect those he loves. It's not your typical boy meets girl, boy falls in love with girl, boy marries girl and they live happily ever after tale, but it's got plenty of meat on its bones and enough angst to make you swoon. It's a read you won't regret. And now I'm on to Carter, the next book in the series. And I'm hoping the next one will be Quentin. Looks like I'm going to be entertained by this series for a good while to come!
May 2, 2016
After getting to know Clayton and Annalee in book one, I was really looking forward to find out more about them. I really enjoyed their story and I was on edge with all the stuff that happened with Samual. That is one evil man. I can't wait to read more of this series and see what happens for the rest of them and see how Clayton and Mia's lives change each book! You really don't want to miss out on this series!
March 8, 2017
The best book in this series!
We learn about Clayton and Annalee's rocky marriage in book 1, and are tend feeling like we want to jump right into this story. Clayton leaves his family behind after Annalee gives her distant husband a chance to speak up about why in fact he has been so distant. The secret that Clayton is harboring is the proof he needs to destroy his dad, and finally eradicate him from the family business, without it suffering too much of financial hit. Saving his family's business takes a front seat, while he is forced to put his wife and daughter in the back seat of this wild ride. This book contains lies, betrayal, but most of all the fact that love can conquer anything.
We learn about Clayton and Annalee's rocky marriage in book 1, and are tend feeling like we want to jump right into this story. Clayton leaves his family behind after Annalee gives her distant husband a chance to speak up about why in fact he has been so distant. The secret that Clayton is harboring is the proof he needs to destroy his dad, and finally eradicate him from the family business, without it suffering too much of financial hit. Saving his family's business takes a front seat, while he is forced to put his wife and daughter in the back seat of this wild ride. This book contains lies, betrayal, but most of all the fact that love can conquer anything.
March 8, 2017
Clayton and Annalee’s marriage is over, well almost over. When Clayton closed himself off, he also broke their relationship. Now when his side mission is finally coming to fruition, he will need to come completely clean with Annalee if he wants to ever win her back.
Another fantastic book in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.
Check out the complete series review on my blog!
https://nightbirdnovels.wordpress.com...
Another fantastic book in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.
Check out the complete series review on my blog!
https://nightbirdnovels.wordpress.com...
June 27, 2025
Clayton is hiding things from his wife, Annalee and she has had enough. She gives him an ultimatum and he walks away, leaving her feeling like divorce is the only option. She's not sure where their relationship went wrong.
Clayton feels withdrawing from his family is the only way to keep them safe.
I liked this book but I think the series needs to be read in order; the were things about the Darcy family that didn't make sense without dinner background. Still an enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
Clayton feels withdrawing from his family is the only way to keep them safe.
I liked this book but I think the series needs to be read in order; the were things about the Darcy family that didn't make sense without dinner background. Still an enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
March 10, 2017
I didn't really love Clayton in the first book but this explains so many of his thoughts and actions. I wasn't sure if they would be able fix their marriage but I hoped they could solve their problems. I really like Annalee she was a fun and spunky heroine. Most of this book takes place at the same time as book one so you get to see the same story from different angles. This was a good book but not my favorite of the series.
Review by Cathy
Review by Cathy
March 9, 2017
Clayton Darcy has to find a way to get his father Samuel Darcy out of the picture. His father seems to wreck everything he touches, especially people's lives. No matter how dirty he needs to get, he is determined to stop him by not playing by the rules if that is what it takes. He begged, bartered and lost the only thing that kept him that mattered to him.... his wife and daughter. Annalee is a smart woman and she knows when her husband is keeping something from her. She doesn't even recognize him anymore. She gave him an ultimatum, tell her whats going on or get out. Only problem is he doesn't want to bring this darkness to the only thing that's good in his life, he just can't do it, so he leaves instead of staying. Now he just has to decide how dirty he is willing to play to take down his father and get his wife back.
So this book takes place a little before Bennett and during the book. You do see some of the same interactions in this book as you did in book one. Now Annalee does what every woman says she won't do and like most women it backfired. Now she has to love with her chooses she made. She just wanted to her husband not the man who checked out from there marriage. There also just so happens to be a beautiful baby girl who is in the middle also, Emma Grace. Now Clayton, he's one smart man but he is so naive when it comes to his wife. They way he was just so blinded with taking his father down, he just kept pushing her away. I understand that he was just trying to keep his family away from the situation because he did have to do some below the rules type of things. I felt so bad for him in his need to take Samuel down. I can only imagine what lengths he went to because Samuel is not a very good man who has covered his tracks well. Samuel has slowly destroyed his family because he thinks that he is untouchable. Ugh, i just can't, my blood boils every time i read what he has done to his family. It makes for a great emotional ride though.
So this book takes place a little before Bennett and during the book. You do see some of the same interactions in this book as you did in book one. Now Annalee does what every woman says she won't do and like most women it backfired. Now she has to love with her chooses she made. She just wanted to her husband not the man who checked out from there marriage. There also just so happens to be a beautiful baby girl who is in the middle also, Emma Grace. Now Clayton, he's one smart man but he is so naive when it comes to his wife. They way he was just so blinded with taking his father down, he just kept pushing her away. I understand that he was just trying to keep his family away from the situation because he did have to do some below the rules type of things. I felt so bad for him in his need to take Samuel down. I can only imagine what lengths he went to because Samuel is not a very good man who has covered his tracks well. Samuel has slowly destroyed his family because he thinks that he is untouchable. Ugh, i just can't, my blood boils every time i read what he has done to his family. It makes for a great emotional ride though.
June 16, 2024
Clayton; Bourbon & Blood
Charity Bowling has written the third book in the series Clayton; Bourbon & Blood.
Annalee & Clayton go through a rough time & separate because Clay tons father, Samuel, is draining the company & family bank account dry on other women, gambling & numerous other illegal things. It all comes to a head. They do get their HEA.
Charity Bowling has written the third book in the series Clayton; Bourbon & Blood.
Annalee & Clayton go through a rough time & separate because Clay tons father, Samuel, is draining the company & family bank account dry on other women, gambling & numerous other illegal things. It all comes to a head. They do get their HEA.
May 16, 2024
Fantasmaglorious
I already love this author Charity Bowlin! She has amazing and smart, lovely and charming characters and a story you will not want to put down! It's exciting and riveting!
I will recommend this book and it's author to my family ad friends.
Read and enjoy!
I already love this author Charity Bowlin! She has amazing and smart, lovely and charming characters and a story you will not want to put down! It's exciting and riveting!
I will recommend this book and it's author to my family ad friends.
Read and enjoy!
October 31, 2019
4.0 overall stars
Couple 4.0 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Plot 4.0 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Story 3.75 🌟🌟🌟⭐️
Sex 3.75 🌟🌟🌟⭐️
Series 3.5 🌟🌟🌟💫 (unfinished after a 3 year wait)
Couple 4.0 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Plot 4.0 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Story 3.75 🌟🌟🌟⭐️
Sex 3.75 🌟🌟🌟⭐️
Series 3.5 🌟🌟🌟💫 (unfinished after a 3 year wait)
March 25, 2016
I was given a copy of Clayton early. After finishing Bennett I was pretty interested in seeing if Clayton and Annalee could fix their marriage. I'm also a new reader of Donavan's books so really I wanted to see if Bennett was a fluke or if I'd found a new author to stalk and one click.
Happily it wasn't a fluke and I now have a new author to stalk!
Anyone who has been married knows how hard it is to make an marriage work. Every day sacrifices are made, choices and decisions can either work perfectly or blow up in your face. But the biggest problem is lies and secrets.
Clayton has spent the better part of the last year lying to his wife; coming home late or not at all, slowly pulling away from her and Annalee is DONE. She didn't sign up for a marriage to the man that she loves so she could feel alone, angry and confused. When she decides that she's had enough Clayton has some tough choices to make. But he's certain that if he could just fix this one problem he can fix his marriage. He isn't purposefully trying to hurt his wife, he just wants to protect her from any fallout.
I enjoyed Annalee as a female character, she strong, has a backbone and isn't a door mat for anyone. She loves her husband, doesn't really want a divorce but sees no other choice.
Clayton is a very passionate and protective man. I can't say I blame him with the father he has, I would be too. He also doesn't want a divorce bit he can't keep Annalee safe from the consequences (if caught).
Clayton isn't a long read, but its a smooth one. The first part of the book is a bit of a recap from some important scenes from Bennet, with just more information and from Clayton and Annalee's perspecives.The storyline is fully flushed and the characters well developed. While Donavan could have drug out the angst and drama she didn't and I thank her for that. The main characters has enough gong out with out unnecessary issues being in their way.
Clayton also has a bit more steam than Bennet had, which is never a bad thing.
Fantastic, fun, sexy read. Can't wait for the next book.
Happily it wasn't a fluke and I now have a new author to stalk!
Anyone who has been married knows how hard it is to make an marriage work. Every day sacrifices are made, choices and decisions can either work perfectly or blow up in your face. But the biggest problem is lies and secrets.
Clayton has spent the better part of the last year lying to his wife; coming home late or not at all, slowly pulling away from her and Annalee is DONE. She didn't sign up for a marriage to the man that she loves so she could feel alone, angry and confused. When she decides that she's had enough Clayton has some tough choices to make. But he's certain that if he could just fix this one problem he can fix his marriage. He isn't purposefully trying to hurt his wife, he just wants to protect her from any fallout.
I enjoyed Annalee as a female character, she strong, has a backbone and isn't a door mat for anyone. She loves her husband, doesn't really want a divorce but sees no other choice.
Clayton is a very passionate and protective man. I can't say I blame him with the father he has, I would be too. He also doesn't want a divorce bit he can't keep Annalee safe from the consequences (if caught).
Clayton isn't a long read, but its a smooth one. The first part of the book is a bit of a recap from some important scenes from Bennet, with just more information and from Clayton and Annalee's perspecives.The storyline is fully flushed and the characters well developed. While Donavan could have drug out the angst and drama she didn't and I thank her for that. The main characters has enough gong out with out unnecessary issues being in their way.
Clayton also has a bit more steam than Bennet had, which is never a bad thing.
Fantastic, fun, sexy read. Can't wait for the next book.
January 1, 2017
Clayton is Mia's brother from Bennett, he too works at the distillery and his marriage has broken down because in his search for incriminating evidence against his father he has crossed some lines and wants to keep all of that secret from his wife, Annalee. Clayton and Annalee are still in love with each other but she cannot live with a man who is keeping secrets and avoiding being with her.
Overall, I felt that Seraphina Donavan maybe lost her way with this novel, or maybe the series wasn't going the way she was hoping? From the first book I thought that this might be a family saga in which each member of the family found love despite the machinations of the evil father and only at the end would he get his come-uppance. But here suddenly everything gets resolved in a rather odd fashion.
The story takes place at around the same time as the preceding book so we see what was occupying Clayton while Mia was caring for their mother.
This was an enjoyable read but I prefer Carter, Bourbon & Blood, Book 3 - that is my favourite so far.
Overall, I felt that Seraphina Donavan maybe lost her way with this novel, or maybe the series wasn't going the way she was hoping? From the first book I thought that this might be a family saga in which each member of the family found love despite the machinations of the evil father and only at the end would he get his come-uppance. But here suddenly everything gets resolved in a rather odd fashion.
The story takes place at around the same time as the preceding book so we see what was occupying Clayton while Mia was caring for their mother.
This was an enjoyable read but I prefer Carter, Bourbon & Blood, Book 3 - that is my favourite so far.
March 24, 2016
Clayton has put so much distance between him and his wife Annalee that he doesn't know if it can be bridged. Annalee doesn't like that he hasn't touched her in a long time and that he is keeping something from her. So she gives him a choice either he tells her what is going on or they are going to get a divorce. Clayton and Annalee have a little girl Emma Grace and they love her so much.
Clayton can't stand his father, will do anything to protect his family. He has a sister and a brother. He wants guardianship over his mother and wants his father out of Fire Creek. Annalee doesn't like that Clayton is keeping secrets from her. Loves Clayton with all her heart, she is a stay at home mom. Helps take care of Patricia. Emma Grace is a very loving little girl, she is Annalee and Clayton's daughter. Quentin and Mia's niece, she is in a lot of programs. Samuel Darcy is a horrible man, he is Clayton, Mia and Quentin's father. Evelyn is the housekeeper that has been there while Clayton, Quentin and Mia were growing up, Mia is her favorite and she helps take care of Patricia. Brittany is Annalee's friend. Quentin is Clayton's brother. Mia is the PR rep for Fire Creek Distillery, Annalee's friend and she takes care of Patricia. Bennett Hayes is Mia's on again off again boyfriend. Emmitt is Bennett's brother, doesn't like anybody with the name Darcy. He is a vet. Lives on a farm.
This is the second book in the Bourbon and blood series. This book is very well written and the characters are very well developed. I found that this book is very hard for me to put down and one I know I will be able to read again and again. I can't wait to read more books by Seraphina Donavan.
Clayton can't stand his father, will do anything to protect his family. He has a sister and a brother. He wants guardianship over his mother and wants his father out of Fire Creek. Annalee doesn't like that Clayton is keeping secrets from her. Loves Clayton with all her heart, she is a stay at home mom. Helps take care of Patricia. Emma Grace is a very loving little girl, she is Annalee and Clayton's daughter. Quentin and Mia's niece, she is in a lot of programs. Samuel Darcy is a horrible man, he is Clayton, Mia and Quentin's father. Evelyn is the housekeeper that has been there while Clayton, Quentin and Mia were growing up, Mia is her favorite and she helps take care of Patricia. Brittany is Annalee's friend. Quentin is Clayton's brother. Mia is the PR rep for Fire Creek Distillery, Annalee's friend and she takes care of Patricia. Bennett Hayes is Mia's on again off again boyfriend. Emmitt is Bennett's brother, doesn't like anybody with the name Darcy. He is a vet. Lives on a farm.
This is the second book in the Bourbon and blood series. This book is very well written and the characters are very well developed. I found that this book is very hard for me to put down and one I know I will be able to read again and again. I can't wait to read more books by Seraphina Donavan.
March 30, 2016
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
When I read the first book, Bennett, in this series I couldn't wait for Clayton's story. There was so much mystery and intrigue as to what he was up to. This book did not disappoint.
The first half of the book is the same timeline as Bennett but told from Clayton and Annalee's POV and circumstances. This book is very well written and it is so nice to read a book and not have any words misspelled. The only negative and it's not really that big of a thing. Just depending on how much you like it in the book. There was definite hotness but very few sex scenes and they were a 1 on the hotness scale. I like a book with a lot more steam and sizzle, but that's just my opinion.
Annalee is fed up with all of Clayton's secrets and she tries to put him on the spot and ask for a divorce. Unfortunately for her he agrees and she still is left in the dark as to what he is up to. Clayton is looking for evidence to use against his father so that they can get him out of their lives. Who knew that confronting him would cause him to take the actions that he did. Secrets were revealed but he still was able to get away with everything that he did.
I hope as this series continues that we see Samuel get what's coming to him. Clayton's mother get better, wedding for Mia and who knows what's in store for Carter?
When I read the first book, Bennett, in this series I couldn't wait for Clayton's story. There was so much mystery and intrigue as to what he was up to. This book did not disappoint.
The first half of the book is the same timeline as Bennett but told from Clayton and Annalee's POV and circumstances. This book is very well written and it is so nice to read a book and not have any words misspelled. The only negative and it's not really that big of a thing. Just depending on how much you like it in the book. There was definite hotness but very few sex scenes and they were a 1 on the hotness scale. I like a book with a lot more steam and sizzle, but that's just my opinion.
Annalee is fed up with all of Clayton's secrets and she tries to put him on the spot and ask for a divorce. Unfortunately for her he agrees and she still is left in the dark as to what he is up to. Clayton is looking for evidence to use against his father so that they can get him out of their lives. Who knew that confronting him would cause him to take the actions that he did. Secrets were revealed but he still was able to get away with everything that he did.
I hope as this series continues that we see Samuel get what's coming to him. Clayton's mother get better, wedding for Mia and who knows what's in store for Carter?
June 28, 2016
I liked the story and the fact that these two are not just meeting or coming together for the first time.
Annalee is Clayton's wife and for reasons that he refuses to divulge he walks away when she gives him an ultimatum. He is doing it to protect her but damn if it doesn't kill him inside.
Annalee is shocked that Clayton walked away so easily. He is hiding something from her and she doesn't understand. She knows he still loves her and it pains her to stick to her guns and proceed with the separation and divorce proceedings. Why does he have to be such a stubborn ass.
Samuel Darcy is the Bain of his entire family and has more than half the town of Fontaine in his pocket. So when Clayton confronts him with his own transgressions and tells him tho leave or he will ruin him he bites back and Annalee is caught in the cross hairs.
I enjoyed the fact that Seraphina blended this story's time line do well with the first book. I do not like the fact that she switched to first person for this installment of the bourbon and blood series. I believe that there should be consistency through out a series and I personally dislike first person to begin with. But I do like the story as a whole and would recommend the series to my fellow romance readers.
Annalee is Clayton's wife and for reasons that he refuses to divulge he walks away when she gives him an ultimatum. He is doing it to protect her but damn if it doesn't kill him inside.
Annalee is shocked that Clayton walked away so easily. He is hiding something from her and she doesn't understand. She knows he still loves her and it pains her to stick to her guns and proceed with the separation and divorce proceedings. Why does he have to be such a stubborn ass.
Samuel Darcy is the Bain of his entire family and has more than half the town of Fontaine in his pocket. So when Clayton confronts him with his own transgressions and tells him tho leave or he will ruin him he bites back and Annalee is caught in the cross hairs.
I enjoyed the fact that Seraphina blended this story's time line do well with the first book. I do not like the fact that she switched to first person for this installment of the bourbon and blood series. I believe that there should be consistency through out a series and I personally dislike first person to begin with. But I do like the story as a whole and would recommend the series to my fellow romance readers.
March 31, 2016
After reading Bennett, Clayton spiked my interest and I couldn't wait to read more about the mysterious Darcy.
Clayton is trying to take his farther down, trying to stop him from ruining the family distillery, which he, his brother and sister have tried so hard to keep running.
In doing so, he has pushed his wife Annalee away. Tried to keep her safe by not implicating her in his world. After a year of being ignored, she gives him an ultimatum... Tell her what he's hiding, what he's keeping from her or leave. Trying to protect her, he leaves.
This devastates Annalee, she never expected him to go. Their story was heartbreaking but kept me glued to the book. I loved Clayton's dirty straight talking mouth. I could see why Ann fell in love with him.
With so much going on, this was an action packed book. I really enjoyed the fact that it went over what had happened in Bennett, you get the whole story from all points of view.
I cannot wait for the next book!! Highly recommend this series!!
**ARC received in exchange for an honest view**
Clayton is trying to take his farther down, trying to stop him from ruining the family distillery, which he, his brother and sister have tried so hard to keep running.
In doing so, he has pushed his wife Annalee away. Tried to keep her safe by not implicating her in his world. After a year of being ignored, she gives him an ultimatum... Tell her what he's hiding, what he's keeping from her or leave. Trying to protect her, he leaves.
This devastates Annalee, she never expected him to go. Their story was heartbreaking but kept me glued to the book. I loved Clayton's dirty straight talking mouth. I could see why Ann fell in love with him.
With so much going on, this was an action packed book. I really enjoyed the fact that it went over what had happened in Bennett, you get the whole story from all points of view.
I cannot wait for the next book!! Highly recommend this series!!
**ARC received in exchange for an honest view**
March 27, 2016
Clayton
**ARC provided in exchange for honest review**
I have been intrigued with Clayton from my first glimpse in Bennett (which you should definitely check out before reading Clayton). Clayton is the oldest of the Darcy clan and knows what kind of man his father is but to get him out the business he had to sleep with the sharks (not literally). Doing what he can led to a ultimatum in his marriage when Annalee, tell her his secrets or move out. I loved that Clayton was protective over those he loved but sometimes he pissed me right off. All he had to do was let her know what was going on but per usual nothing is as ever simple as it seems. The storyline was wonderful and the characters are the type that you would love to hangout with. The chemistry was undeniable and I for one am addicted to this series and can't wait for the next one. Kudos Seraphina for a job well done and a book well written.
**ARC provided in exchange for honest review**
I have been intrigued with Clayton from my first glimpse in Bennett (which you should definitely check out before reading Clayton). Clayton is the oldest of the Darcy clan and knows what kind of man his father is but to get him out the business he had to sleep with the sharks (not literally). Doing what he can led to a ultimatum in his marriage when Annalee, tell her his secrets or move out. I loved that Clayton was protective over those he loved but sometimes he pissed me right off. All he had to do was let her know what was going on but per usual nothing is as ever simple as it seems. The storyline was wonderful and the characters are the type that you would love to hangout with. The chemistry was undeniable and I for one am addicted to this series and can't wait for the next one. Kudos Seraphina for a job well done and a book well written.
March 31, 2016
Clayton was about to lose his family in fighting to get his father out of all of their lives. His wife gave him an ultimatum...stop being so distant or move out and lose her. Knowing that he had to do something about the monster, he let her go. I wanted to shake him hard and maybe even kick him in the shin. I got that his dad was pure evil, but letting his family go was a huge mistake. A year later Clayton is still trying to rid his world of his father and his divorce is about to be final when he realizes that he doesn't wait to let Annalee go. In order to keep her Clayton will have to come clean about all he has done and there will be a showdown with his father. I really enjoyed Clayton and Annalee's story.
I give Clayton 4 hearts!
I give Clayton 4 hearts!
March 25, 2016
This review is from: Clayton (Bourbon & Blood Book 2) (Kindle Edition)
I was given a copy of Clayton, book 2 in the Bourbon & Blood Series in exchange for an honest review. I'm loving and getting a thrill out of Seraphina Donovan's books. This is the story of Clayton and Annalee, we met them in Bennett book 1 of this awesome series. The story isn't short nor long read but is straightforward and sincere, it's full of drama, danger, suspense, passion, love, a bit of humor and great characters. The are a lot of emotions running at the end of the story, the conclusion is AWESOME!!!!! After finishing Bennett, I like Clayton better, he's more passionate. NO Spoilers go buy the book!! Can't wait for the next book!
I was given a copy of Clayton, book 2 in the Bourbon & Blood Series in exchange for an honest review. I'm loving and getting a thrill out of Seraphina Donovan's books. This is the story of Clayton and Annalee, we met them in Bennett book 1 of this awesome series. The story isn't short nor long read but is straightforward and sincere, it's full of drama, danger, suspense, passion, love, a bit of humor and great characters. The are a lot of emotions running at the end of the story, the conclusion is AWESOME!!!!! After finishing Bennett, I like Clayton better, he's more passionate. NO Spoilers go buy the book!! Can't wait for the next book!
March 17, 2016
Since reading Bennett I've been dying to know what Clayton is up to.
What has he done thats so bad he needed to push her away? But now he wants her back?
My immediate thoughts were, if that were me, i'd tell him to stick it! BUT the author has told this story so well with his reasonings that I just could not stick by my first reaction.....he stuck by his promises....now that is a man!
This was a great read and I really enjoyed the bonus scene at the end. Their beginning.....makes it all so clear.
And next is my man Carter. ..yes I wanted him from the start. But I think the author has made a mistake with the leading ladies name...Josie? Who is this Josie? CARO, it's Caro!
What has he done thats so bad he needed to push her away? But now he wants her back?
My immediate thoughts were, if that were me, i'd tell him to stick it! BUT the author has told this story so well with his reasonings that I just could not stick by my first reaction.....he stuck by his promises....now that is a man!
This was a great read and I really enjoyed the bonus scene at the end. Their beginning.....makes it all so clear.
And next is my man Carter. ..yes I wanted him from the start. But I think the author has made a mistake with the leading ladies name...Josie? Who is this Josie? CARO, it's Caro!
March 31, 2016
After reading this book I am for sure going back and reading Bennett. There is so much mystery and suspense in this book that you will be hanging by a thread as you flip the pages one after another.
Annalee and Clayton are married but after an ultimatum given by her he lets her go. All she wants is to understand and for answers. So instead of answering Clayton packs up and leaves so he can protector. But letting her go is the hardest thing he has ever done in his life. But what happens next?
Well you will just have to find out. This is a must read IMO. You will not be able to put it down when you first start.
Annalee and Clayton are married but after an ultimatum given by her he lets her go. All she wants is to understand and for answers. So instead of answering Clayton packs up and leaves so he can protector. But letting her go is the hardest thing he has ever done in his life. But what happens next?
Well you will just have to find out. This is a must read IMO. You will not be able to put it down when you first start.
July 7, 2016
I really liked Clayton and Annalee most of the time. They were people that I could really relate to and could completely see where they were coming from. Yes, there were times when I wanted to reach through the pages and choke Clayton, but I did love their story.
The only thing that distracted me was the point of view that the book was written from. The first book in the series was written in third person and this book was written in first person, so I was thrown for a loop for a little while. Still, don't let this keep you from reading this book.
Now I'm ready for the next book and can't wait to read it. I really hope Clayton's father gets what's due to him soon!
The only thing that distracted me was the point of view that the book was written from. The first book in the series was written in third person and this book was written in first person, so I was thrown for a loop for a little while. Still, don't let this keep you from reading this book.
Now I'm ready for the next book and can't wait to read it. I really hope Clayton's father gets what's due to him soon!
March 21, 2016
I was excited to revisit with the Darcy family and even more so to figure out the story of Clayton and Annalee. Clayton is the oldest and tasked responsibility for Quinton and Mia. In his efforts to save Fire Creek, he began to distance himself from his wife Annalee. He did it to protect her, but she didn't know from what so she issued an ultimatum and he moved out. Through the process of trying to ruin his father they become close again. Ultimately they save each other and become one.
What a good read, I finished it in one day,. I couldn't wait to see what happened next.
What a good read, I finished it in one day,. I couldn't wait to see what happened next.
April 29, 2016
Damn that was hot
I thought I loved book one, than I read book 2 and fell even more in love with these characters. I started reading this series cause I like this authors writing and it was set in my home state of KY. I keep reading this series cause the stories are awesome and keep my engrossed from the first page to the last. I love how it flowed from book one seamlessly even though the stories overlap it did not bother me at all cause I was enjoying finding the other parts of the families story.
I thought I loved book one, than I read book 2 and fell even more in love with these characters. I started reading this series cause I like this authors writing and it was set in my home state of KY. I keep reading this series cause the stories are awesome and keep my engrossed from the first page to the last. I love how it flowed from book one seamlessly even though the stories overlap it did not bother me at all cause I was enjoying finding the other parts of the families story.
March 30, 2016
Book 1, Bennett, did a great job at setting the stage for Clayton. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised. Clayton was trying to do the right thing and keep his family safe. He was willing to give up his family in order to keep them safe from his father. There were moments in this book that were heartbreaking, but I loved their happily ever after. I can't wait to see how the next book plays out. This series is a must read!
April 26, 2016
Explosive!
I just discovered this author and I know I will be a fan for life! An explosive continuing storyline (with no cliffhangers), emotionally driven characters I love, an evil sociopath that has to be stopped and some really steamy love scenes! This series has everything I look for in romantic suspense and once I start reading I don't put the book down until it's finished. In my book that's a five star read!
I just discovered this author and I know I will be a fan for life! An explosive continuing storyline (with no cliffhangers), emotionally driven characters I love, an evil sociopath that has to be stopped and some really steamy love scenes! This series has everything I look for in romantic suspense and once I start reading I don't put the book down until it's finished. In my book that's a five star read!
April 1, 2016
It was interesting reading about everything happening to the Darcy from Clayton's pov.
I loved Mia's story and I wondered why Clayton and Annalee were getting a divorce.
I enjoyed very much and not only I got more questions answered bit I loved Clayton...the good guy turned bad boy was hot!
Now I can't wait for book 3.. is going to be a ride for sure!
I loved Mia's story and I wondered why Clayton and Annalee were getting a divorce.
I enjoyed very much and not only I got more questions answered bit I loved Clayton...the good guy turned bad boy was hot!
Now I can't wait for book 3.. is going to be a ride for sure!
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