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The Monroe Family #1
Unsocial
Dylan I’m living the dream. A successful business owner of a custom car and motorcycle shop in Oklahoma and master of my own destiny. Other than my best friend and business partner my life is my own, and I answer to no one. Then my life changes with a single phone call and I’m back in Kansas fighting for guardianship of my four younger siblings. Now I answer to her, Brooke Porter. Brooke I’ve devoted myself for the past six years to my dream of being a social worker. My very first case are the Monroes, and professional and personal boundaries blur as I become closer to them. Now my dreams are of Dylan. The attraction Dylan and I have is heading us straight to unsocial behavior. What will we be risking if we give in? *Unsocial is a New Adult Romance novel that contains mature content and is not suitable for anyone under 18
394 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2016
69 people are currently reading
779 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Dykes
95 books2,536 followersNicole Dykes is a wife and a professional assistant/mom to two gorgeous girls. Currently residing in Kansas, she’s a lover of coffee, Kansas City Chiefs, and all things romance.
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
March 15, 2016
"This feels too good to be bad."
Unsocial is an NA Romance blend of bad boy meets good girl, forbidden romance, and Party of 5 all mixed into one.
Dylan is living the dream. As a successful young adult, he is the manager and owner of a successful body and art auto restoration shop. He has plenty of women swooning at his feet and a loyal best friend by his side. However, one phone call changes his life forever. Dylan receives word that his dad and stepmother have been killed in an automobile accident. He is asked to return home so that he can take care of his four younger siblings. Although he was estranged from his parents, he packs a bag and heads home.
"Do we get to stay with you, Dylan?"Brooke is a young professional beginning her career as a social worker. Her first assignment is Dylan and his four siblings. When Brooke has her first meeting with the family, it becomes evident that this first assignment is going to be a difficult one for her to take on. With two teenagers and two young children who have just lost their parents, emotions are high. In addition to the emotional challenges, she is naturally attracted to the “tattooed bad boy” Dylan.
"I've got to shut these insane feelings toward this man down. He's my client, and I can't be thinking of him as anything but my client."The combination of love for the kids and lust for their brother proves to be quite a strain on Brooke. However, she is determined to win over the hearts of the four siblings and maintain a professional relationship with their big sexy bro! Dylan's sole focus is gaining permanent guardianship of his brothers and sisters. Therefore, a connection with the social worker overseeing their case is absolutely out of the question. In fact, Brooke could loose her job if a relationship were to develop. However, we all know what happens when you want something you can't have!
"There's a line I can't cross, even though it seems I am coming awfully close at times."
As time passes, the children grow to love Brooke, and she finds herself embedded in their lives. She and Dylan grow close as well, and eventually the professional lines become blurry, and the two come together. With her career and permanent guardianship at stake, will Dylan and Brooke be able to make away together?
"It wasn't enough. That brief taste made me an addict."
"I'm just going to feel the moment while it lasts."Told in dual POV, Unsocial packs quite an emotional punch. The family dynamics were unique and well developed throughout. I thoroughly enjoyed observing the transformation of the siblings and grew quite attached to them. Brooke and Dylan were both complex characters and their struggle to stay away from each other was both entertaining and redefines the word anticipation. I was quite taken by them both and was cheering for them the entire ride! Brooke and Dylan's best friends played a pivotal role in the plot. However, "helpful" they may have been, I found their meddling to be obsessive and slightly out of character for their ages. Thankfully, they somewhat redeemed themselves in the end. The story arc was well developed, and although the read was a bit lengthy, it had a firm grip on my heart the entire time.
Overall, Unsocial is an excellent pick for readers who enjoy the "forbidden romance" theme. The addition of the family dynamics truly made this read unique. One week later and I am still thinking about this read! As I have grown quite attached to the characters in this book, I certainly hope Ms. Dykes will give us more. I am ready and waiting!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
May 9, 2021
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/5/2019)! 🎁
4.5 forbidden stars !
It was a long read but absolutely worth it. I loved the way Nicole Dykes kept me glue to this book from the very beginning. The storyline was strong and captivating. The Monroes and Brooke were all lovable characters.
Dylan Monroe is a 26 years old. He’s a successful business owner of a custom car and motorcycle shop in Oklahoma living the perfect bachelor life and answering to no one. This until the day he receives a phone call from Kensas telling him that his parents had a fatal accident. Following a Judge decision, he’s now fighting for guardianship of his four younger siblings and has to answer to her, Brooke. I loved Dylan and the fact that he moved his entire life up in Kansas to take care of his family.
Brooke Porter is 24 and a newbie social worker who has been assigned to the Monroe case. She’s an amazing character. Brooke is brave, warm, caring and compassionate.
During the first 50% of the book, they fought their attraction really hard trying to stay away. They knew they were off limits. They didn’t want to give in to what they both craved. For a very long time they tried desperatly not to act on it knowing it was wrong, forbidden, unethical and unprofessional from Brooke’s part. Just a couple of kisses were exchange after half the book. I was so captivated by the story itself that I didn’t mind the slow build up of their love story. Which is really unusual for me as I like my heroes succumbing to their desire sooner rather than later.
As time moves on Brooke become closer to the Monroe family. Dylan and Brooke were more and more blurring the lines, until they gave into their impossible attraction for each other and decided to have a one night stand just to be «all good again ». But the strong feelings between them were hard to deny or ignore and they were heading straight to unsocial behavior, risking all they have worked for. Brooke by risking her job and Dylan putting his family on the line. But love is all but predictable.
At this point, I was weeping in anticipation of more wondering if they will jump in the deep end together.
Will they be strong enough to lean on each other when discovered and facing rough times or do they walked away ?
I loved Brooke and Dylan’s story. The situation was not easy for either of them but I loved the way they loved and supported each other. Because in the end there is nothing better in live than having a family to take care of and love.
My only dislike was Brooke’s BFF Alex and Dylan’s best friend Jackson. I understood that they just wanted to protect their friends but they were over the top protective. Fortunatly by the end of the book I liked both of them.
I recommend this book and look forward to reading more from Nicole Dykes in the future.
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 forbidden stars !
It was a long read but absolutely worth it. I loved the way Nicole Dykes kept me glue to this book from the very beginning. The storyline was strong and captivating. The Monroes and Brooke were all lovable characters.
Dylan Monroe is a 26 years old. He’s a successful business owner of a custom car and motorcycle shop in Oklahoma living the perfect bachelor life and answering to no one. This until the day he receives a phone call from Kensas telling him that his parents had a fatal accident. Following a Judge decision, he’s now fighting for guardianship of his four younger siblings and has to answer to her, Brooke. I loved Dylan and the fact that he moved his entire life up in Kansas to take care of his family.
Brooke Porter is 24 and a newbie social worker who has been assigned to the Monroe case. She’s an amazing character. Brooke is brave, warm, caring and compassionate.
During the first 50% of the book, they fought their attraction really hard trying to stay away. They knew they were off limits. They didn’t want to give in to what they both craved. For a very long time they tried desperatly not to act on it knowing it was wrong, forbidden, unethical and unprofessional from Brooke’s part. Just a couple of kisses were exchange after half the book. I was so captivated by the story itself that I didn’t mind the slow build up of their love story. Which is really unusual for me as I like my heroes succumbing to their desire sooner rather than later.
As time moves on Brooke become closer to the Monroe family. Dylan and Brooke were more and more blurring the lines, until they gave into their impossible attraction for each other and decided to have a one night stand just to be «all good again ». But the strong feelings between them were hard to deny or ignore and they were heading straight to unsocial behavior, risking all they have worked for. Brooke by risking her job and Dylan putting his family on the line. But love is all but predictable.
At this point, I was weeping in anticipation of more wondering if they will jump in the deep end together.
Will they be strong enough to lean on each other when discovered and facing rough times or do they walked away ?
I loved Brooke and Dylan’s story. The situation was not easy for either of them but I loved the way they loved and supported each other. Because in the end there is nothing better in live than having a family to take care of and love.
My only dislike was Brooke’s BFF Alex and Dylan’s best friend Jackson. I understood that they just wanted to protect their friends but they were over the top protective. Fortunatly by the end of the book I liked both of them.
I recommend this book and look forward to reading more from Nicole Dykes in the future.
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2019
This was a refreshing read after a marathon of contemporary stories with the same overused, angsty romance formula.
"I want to hold her all night, every night. I don't want to fit in stolen moments with the worry of getting caught."
The character development is written well; Brooke’s distinct and complex character made this book truly enjoyable in spite of the lengthiness of this book. Dylan, unlike many H’s, is more than his 6 pack abs, chiseled jawline, possessiveness, and jealousy despite his playboy status. His character is weaved wonderfully, and he is one of the most genuine characters I've read in a while – I just wish that his emotions and struggles with his parents’ deaths were exposed and detailed a little more. His relationships with his siblings are well-developed, just as Brooke’s relationships with them are.
Unsocial is a little like Some Kind of Perfect – they both draw out the everyday lives of the H and h. Without this, the book could probably be cut by a third. In my case, I’ve learned to enjoy this sort of thing, but I know it isn’t for everyone.
Despite the forbidden romance angle, there’s little angst but just enough drama in Unsocial.
However, I never felt that their relationship, Brooke’s career, or Dylan’s guardianship were ever truly threatened, which would have added some intrigue to the story.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced read about angsty teenagers whose thoughts are consumed by getting frisky, this is not for you.
If you’re looking for an engaging but slower-paced storyline about multi-layered characters with a slightly more profound romance and a dash of sexy, Unsocial may be just what you’re looking for.
Caution: OW but only in an earlier chapter, and slut-shaming to go with it!
"She's not shy and frankly, I'm feeling a little disgusted." - I was turned off by this condescending attitude from Dylan, a manwhore himself, but it wasn't hard to overlook because it happened only once. Still, I wish authors would stop the one-way slut-shaming because it's sexist to slut-shame women while commending men for their long list of sexual conquests. I don't mind slut-shaming as long as it goes both ways!
"Shut up. I don't want to hear a single word from you unless it's 'Yes, Dylan.'"
3.5 ★
"I want to hold her all night, every night. I don't want to fit in stolen moments with the worry of getting caught."
The character development is written well; Brooke’s distinct and complex character made this book truly enjoyable in spite of the lengthiness of this book. Dylan, unlike many H’s, is more than his 6 pack abs, chiseled jawline, possessiveness, and jealousy despite his playboy status. His character is weaved wonderfully, and he is one of the most genuine characters I've read in a while – I just wish that his emotions and struggles with his parents’ deaths were exposed and detailed a little more. His relationships with his siblings are well-developed, just as Brooke’s relationships with them are.
Unsocial is a little like Some Kind of Perfect – they both draw out the everyday lives of the H and h. Without this, the book could probably be cut by a third. In my case, I’ve learned to enjoy this sort of thing, but I know it isn’t for everyone.
Despite the forbidden romance angle, there’s little angst but just enough drama in Unsocial.
However, I never felt that their relationship, Brooke’s career, or Dylan’s guardianship were ever truly threatened, which would have added some intrigue to the story.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced read about angsty teenagers whose thoughts are consumed by getting frisky, this is not for you.
If you’re looking for an engaging but slower-paced storyline about multi-layered characters with a slightly more profound romance and a dash of sexy, Unsocial may be just what you’re looking for.
Caution: OW but only in an earlier chapter, and slut-shaming to go with it!
"She's not shy and frankly, I'm feeling a little disgusted." - I was turned off by this condescending attitude from Dylan, a manwhore himself, but it wasn't hard to overlook because it happened only once. Still, I wish authors would stop the one-way slut-shaming because it's sexist to slut-shame women while commending men for their long list of sexual conquests. I don't mind slut-shaming as long as it goes both ways!
"Shut up. I don't want to hear a single word from you unless it's 'Yes, Dylan.'"
3.5 ★
March 31, 2016
3,5 Unsocial stars
Every fucking thing about Brooke Porter is driving me insane.
This was a nice reading.
I really enjoyed this book!I liked the storyline and the characters although there were a couple of things that bothered me...but nothing too serious...I got it under control! ;p
"Shut up.I don't want to hear a single word from
you unless it's 'Yes, Dylan'."
This book as about Dylan who was trying to take guardianship of his 4 younger brothers and sisters.Now you would think what a great brother!Well he as a great brother but so much as a great boyfriend at least in the first half of the book.He was a man-whore and if you don't like then this book isn't for you.I liked the way Dylan was with his siblings and trying to help them and started to create a family...
"Shit, baby.You're soaked.You want this.You want me
to fuck you as much as I want to fuck you."
Then there was Brooke a social worker who loved the Monroes family and tried to help them in every way possible...she did a lot for them...of course a normal social worker wouldn't do all that but Brooke loved the kids and was too much attracted to their big brother Dylan.
I liked Dylan and Brooke together especially when they gather with the kids and had dinners or special occasions...They were a little happy family.I loved the kids all 4 of them, each one of them had some issues because of what happened but in the end they overcome their problems...
"Just us, baby.Just two people who've wanted to fuck
the hell out of each for way too long.That's all."
"I like that."
Now the things that bothered me was quite a few.I really enjoyed the story but it was too long and that was kind of tiring.It was an easy story without unnecessary drama which I liked, but there were too many details.Another thing that I didn't like was the way their friends behaved and tried to keep them apart.They were interfering too much for my liking.And I didn't like Dylan in the first half book trying to forget Brooke . Not cool Dylan, not cool at all!
"Do you know how much you mean to me?"
"No."
"Everything."
"Good because I'm in this 100% and there's no stopping the fall."
"Go ahead and fall, Brooke.I'll always be there to catch you."
They had good chemistry and I really liked Dylan when he was jealous and possessive and needed his woman when things got out of hand...he was great in the second half of the book.He was everything I wanted to see in him...and he didn't disappoint me. <3
"I'm gonna fuck you on this car."
This was my first book from this author and I liked her work a lot.
So I'm gonna keep an eye on her!
Enjoy!xxx
(ARC provided by the author for an honest review)
Every fucking thing about Brooke Porter is driving me insane.
This was a nice reading.
I really enjoyed this book!I liked the storyline and the characters although there were a couple of things that bothered me...but nothing too serious...I got it under control! ;p
"Shut up.I don't want to hear a single word from
you unless it's 'Yes, Dylan'."
This book as about Dylan who was trying to take guardianship of his 4 younger brothers and sisters.Now you would think what a great brother!Well he as a great brother but so much as a great boyfriend at least in the first half of the book.He was a man-whore and if you don't like then this book isn't for you.I liked the way Dylan was with his siblings and trying to help them and started to create a family...
"Shit, baby.You're soaked.You want this.You want me
to fuck you as much as I want to fuck you."
Then there was Brooke a social worker who loved the Monroes family and tried to help them in every way possible...she did a lot for them...of course a normal social worker wouldn't do all that but Brooke loved the kids and was too much attracted to their big brother Dylan.
I liked Dylan and Brooke together especially when they gather with the kids and had dinners or special occasions...They were a little happy family.I loved the kids all 4 of them, each one of them had some issues because of what happened but in the end they overcome their problems...
"Just us, baby.Just two people who've wanted to fuck
the hell out of each for way too long.That's all."
"I like that."
Now the things that bothered me was quite a few.I really enjoyed the story but it was too long and that was kind of tiring.It was an easy story without unnecessary drama which I liked, but there were too many details.Another thing that I didn't like was the way their friends behaved and tried to keep them apart.They were interfering too much for my liking.And I didn't like Dylan in the first half book trying to forget Brooke . Not cool Dylan, not cool at all!
"Do you know how much you mean to me?"
"No."
"Everything."
"Good because I'm in this 100% and there's no stopping the fall."
"Go ahead and fall, Brooke.I'll always be there to catch you."
They had good chemistry and I really liked Dylan when he was jealous and possessive and needed his woman when things got out of hand...he was great in the second half of the book.He was everything I wanted to see in him...and he didn't disappoint me. <3
"I'm gonna fuck you on this car."
This was my first book from this author and I liked her work a lot.
So I'm gonna keep an eye on her!
Enjoy!xxx
(ARC provided by the author for an honest review)
March 4, 2016
Now live on Amazon and FREE with Kindle Unlimited!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01C...
March 20, 2016
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Brooke): tried to stick to her guns but still gave in too easily
Hero (Dylan): dickhead
Plot: 2/5
Grovel: none
Cheating: see triggers
HEA: DNF
Triggers: detail of H fucking OW, a few chapters later we get another scene of H fucking a woman AFTER developing feelings for the h AND also pictured the h in his mind while doing it
Average score: 1/5 – DNF
Best Lines: h: “I’m a professional, and I can’t, no, I’m not going to risk my career because my client can’t keep his dick in his pants.” too bad you did it anyway
Worst Lines: so many…here’s a taste:
H: “I’m big with tattoos, but my awesome looks bring in customers not to mention plenty of pussy. Conceited, I know.”
Personal Review:
Dear author, thank you for treating me with lovely image of the Hero fucking another woman ON THE FIRST FUCKING PAGE!!!!!!!!! That’s a really great way of introducing a ‘hero’ who I am supposed to like
I fell in love with the kids!
There was a lot of bullshitting between the h and H which just frustrated the hell out of me (and not in a good way!)
Overall Feeling:
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Brooke): tried to stick to her guns but still gave in too easily
Hero (Dylan): dickhead
Plot: 2/5
Grovel: none
Cheating: see triggers
HEA: DNF
Triggers: detail of H fucking OW, a few chapters later we get another scene of H fucking a woman AFTER developing feelings for the h AND also pictured the h in his mind while doing it
Average score: 1/5 – DNF
Best Lines: h: “I’m a professional, and I can’t, no, I’m not going to risk my career because my client can’t keep his dick in his pants.” too bad you did it anyway
Worst Lines: so many…here’s a taste:
H: “I’m big with tattoos, but my awesome looks bring in customers not to mention plenty of pussy. Conceited, I know.”
Personal Review:
Dear author, thank you for treating me with lovely image of the Hero fucking another woman ON THE FIRST FUCKING PAGE!!!!!!!!! That’s a really great way of introducing a ‘hero’ who I am supposed to like
I fell in love with the kids!
There was a lot of bullshitting between the h and H which just frustrated the hell out of me (and not in a good way!)
Overall Feeling:
June 1, 2020
***5 I Need Me Some More Stars***
Loved it! I got sucked right into this story from the start, I loved Dylan and Brooke, the kids and Jax and Alex and I really hope there's going to be more stories to come from these lot because I need more asap!!
Throughout this book I laughed and cried, had a big goofy grin plastered on my face and had butterfly's, I went from wanting to get to the ending to know the uoutcome to wanting it to last longer.
I'm so glad I came across it, I look forward to reading more from Nicole Dykes in the future.
This book is on the long side but I really didn't mind because I'd rather that than have one story taking up three books and having to wait for the next parts.
Arc kindly received from author for an honest review.
Loved it! I got sucked right into this story from the start, I loved Dylan and Brooke, the kids and Jax and Alex and I really hope there's going to be more stories to come from these lot because I need more asap!!
Throughout this book I laughed and cried, had a big goofy grin plastered on my face and had butterfly's, I went from wanting to get to the ending to know the uoutcome to wanting it to last longer.
I'm so glad I came across it, I look forward to reading more from Nicole Dykes in the future.
This book is on the long side but I really didn't mind because I'd rather that than have one story taking up three books and having to wait for the next parts.
Arc kindly received from author for an honest review.
dnf
April 9, 2016DNF @ 38%. I don't have any rant with this one, but it just wasn't for me. It might be good for others, but I just didn't click with it. Which is a bummer, because I love books with kids in them :(
April 12, 2016
(Almost) 4 'Blurring the Lines' Stars!
Copy kindly gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review.
A week or so ago, Nicole contacted me through Facebook and asked if I could give a honest review of her new stand-alone novel. I already had Unsocial on my TBR list so I was pretty excited to start this one! Let's see what I experienced with this book!
As I mentioned, Unsocial is a stand-alone novel written by Nicole Dykes and it tells the story of Dylan Monroe (a wealthy playboy, owner of a very successful car company and a man who has lost his parents and now has to take care of his siblings) and Brooke Porter (the Monroe's social worker, a woman who finally has her dream job which now is in 'danger' because she is very attracted to the oldest Monroe brother).
I just want her, and I can’t come up with a good argument why I should stop wanting her.
I want Dylan Monroe more than I’ve wanted any man I’ve ever seen, and he’s completely off limits. My thoughts are torture. Seeing him is torture. But I must be a masochist because I can’t stop. I don’t want to stop.
This started with a good and different plot. It's my first time reading a 'taboo' story between a social worker and her first case and I really enjoyed that. And my favourite aspects about Unsocial were the scenes with the whole Monroe family (so sweet!) and the chemistry between Brooke and Dylan. They cannot stop themselves from wanting each other and they have super-hot times when they are together!
There’s no way to stop the three steps it takes me to close all the space between us. She has nowhere to back up to except the hood of the car, and I just keep pushing forward until her back is lying across it.
“I’m gonna fuck you on this car,” I say with determination.
“Do you know how much you mean to me?”
She shakes her head, and our lips buff slightly together as she speaks, “No.”
“Everything,” I whisper.
I really enjoyed how the relationships are developed, especially the one with Dylan and his siblings and also his love story with Brooke. However, I have to say Unsocial has been a book quite difficult to rate. As I said, I liked the connections between the main characters but there where several aspects that weren't exactly my cup of tea.
First, I am not used to first person narrators. I don't know why but it's just not my favourite type of narrating. I got used to it by the end and that's just me, I am sure many people enjoy it! Secondly, this book is too long. Nicole actually warned me about it! lol I adjusted to her writing style but I really believe it can be improved: there is repeated information, sometimes the paragraphs are too long and I found some grammar and punctuation mistakes (nothing serious and I am sure that with re-reading and the help of beta readers this can get better!). And finally, I have to say some of the characters and situations crossed me, especially how Jax and Alex are involved and always judging Dylan and Brooke's forbidden relationship (thank God they open their eyes at the end!) and also, how Dylan acts sometimes (not liking the scenes with OW.. nope).
Still, I really believe these details can progress and besides that, I have to say all the characters, especially Dylan, Brooke and the siblings, are great and I loved how their story developed and ended! I really enjoy big happy families :) And the hot moments too! lol
We are going to get through this, together, come hell or high water. It's us against the world.
I don’t give a fuck how nuts my family makes me. Every day with them there is something new, and all the crazy shit just makes them worth waking up to.
Therefore, my rating for Unsocial is (almost) 4 STARS because as I said, there are some things that can be easily improved and also there were aspects that I really enjoyed like the good relationship the siblings have and the love story! So if you want to read a forbidden love story, involving a social worker and his very-sexy client, check Nicole's book out!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
Copy kindly gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review.
A week or so ago, Nicole contacted me through Facebook and asked if I could give a honest review of her new stand-alone novel. I already had Unsocial on my TBR list so I was pretty excited to start this one! Let's see what I experienced with this book!
As I mentioned, Unsocial is a stand-alone novel written by Nicole Dykes and it tells the story of Dylan Monroe (a wealthy playboy, owner of a very successful car company and a man who has lost his parents and now has to take care of his siblings) and Brooke Porter (the Monroe's social worker, a woman who finally has her dream job which now is in 'danger' because she is very attracted to the oldest Monroe brother).
I just want her, and I can’t come up with a good argument why I should stop wanting her.
I want Dylan Monroe more than I’ve wanted any man I’ve ever seen, and he’s completely off limits. My thoughts are torture. Seeing him is torture. But I must be a masochist because I can’t stop. I don’t want to stop.
This started with a good and different plot. It's my first time reading a 'taboo' story between a social worker and her first case and I really enjoyed that. And my favourite aspects about Unsocial were the scenes with the whole Monroe family (so sweet!) and the chemistry between Brooke and Dylan. They cannot stop themselves from wanting each other and they have super-hot times when they are together!
There’s no way to stop the three steps it takes me to close all the space between us. She has nowhere to back up to except the hood of the car, and I just keep pushing forward until her back is lying across it.
“I’m gonna fuck you on this car,” I say with determination.
“Do you know how much you mean to me?”
She shakes her head, and our lips buff slightly together as she speaks, “No.”
“Everything,” I whisper.
I really enjoyed how the relationships are developed, especially the one with Dylan and his siblings and also his love story with Brooke. However, I have to say Unsocial has been a book quite difficult to rate. As I said, I liked the connections between the main characters but there where several aspects that weren't exactly my cup of tea.
First, I am not used to first person narrators. I don't know why but it's just not my favourite type of narrating. I got used to it by the end and that's just me, I am sure many people enjoy it! Secondly, this book is too long. Nicole actually warned me about it! lol I adjusted to her writing style but I really believe it can be improved: there is repeated information, sometimes the paragraphs are too long and I found some grammar and punctuation mistakes (nothing serious and I am sure that with re-reading and the help of beta readers this can get better!). And finally, I have to say some of the characters and situations crossed me, especially how Jax and Alex are involved and always judging Dylan and Brooke's forbidden relationship (thank God they open their eyes at the end!) and also, how Dylan acts sometimes (not liking the scenes with OW.. nope).
Still, I really believe these details can progress and besides that, I have to say all the characters, especially Dylan, Brooke and the siblings, are great and I loved how their story developed and ended! I really enjoy big happy families :) And the hot moments too! lol
We are going to get through this, together, come hell or high water. It's us against the world.
I don’t give a fuck how nuts my family makes me. Every day with them there is something new, and all the crazy shit just makes them worth waking up to.
Therefore, my rating for Unsocial is (almost) 4 STARS because as I said, there are some things that can be easily improved and also there were aspects that I really enjoyed like the good relationship the siblings have and the love story! So if you want to read a forbidden love story, involving a social worker and his very-sexy client, check Nicole's book out!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
March 23, 2016
DAMN!
Nicole Dykes done me proud! I think the biggest thing with this book is that I met the author a long time ago and I've had the pleasure of reading all her work and beta reading for her. I think the biggest thing for me here was that I got to witness this author grow and become her own in her writing before my very own eyes. It was a beautiful process to witness and I'm ever so thankful I got to play even the smallest of parts in it.
Now.... I'm done being mushy. Onto the book...
You all know how I'm a sucker for the forbidden by now, right? Stepbrother romances, teacher student and all the others you can think of? Well this is the most UNIQUE and EXTRAORDINARY forbidden book I've ever had the pleasure of reading! I've never come across the social worker situation before and I love the allure to it.
The foreplay... just OMG. Had me squirming! I just NEEDED Dylan to nail Brooke already! Those two are hot individuals and so when you put them together you get ..... BOOM!... Hot as fuck sex! It was awesome. Trust me ;)
I loved the sweet and sift side to Dylan too, you know after you get over the sexy part. My heart hurt for his younger siblings losing all they did so young and I admired Dylan for how he took charge and was in control. He was my book boyfriend for a VERY long time! :)
Cassie, Luke, Michael and Gabby were all so adorable and I loved reading and getting to know them all as individuals. My heart probably hurt the most for Gabby. Her breakthrough however, had me smiling and laughing. Luke was typical teen boy and I loved him for it. Pain in the ass but a good kid. Cassie and Dylan moments had me in STITCHES. Nothing hotter or funnier than an older, over protective bear of a brother. Trust me, I know, I have 4 lol. Michael was your typical sweet kid. I'd love to adopt my fellow brainiac. So sweet and humble.
The storyline and plot kept me biting my nails and the way it was written was amazing and like I said Nicole, you done me proud with the quality of this book and the amount of time it took you to write it. So my hats off to you lady, well done on such a well deserved 5 star from me! You earned it!
5 UNSOCIAL STARS PEOPLE - *****
Now go read it!! ;)
P.S. Gimme Luke's book now please?
*ARC kindly received via the author in exchange for a honest review*
Nicole Dykes done me proud! I think the biggest thing with this book is that I met the author a long time ago and I've had the pleasure of reading all her work and beta reading for her. I think the biggest thing for me here was that I got to witness this author grow and become her own in her writing before my very own eyes. It was a beautiful process to witness and I'm ever so thankful I got to play even the smallest of parts in it.
Now.... I'm done being mushy. Onto the book...
You all know how I'm a sucker for the forbidden by now, right? Stepbrother romances, teacher student and all the others you can think of? Well this is the most UNIQUE and EXTRAORDINARY forbidden book I've ever had the pleasure of reading! I've never come across the social worker situation before and I love the allure to it.
The foreplay... just OMG. Had me squirming! I just NEEDED Dylan to nail Brooke already! Those two are hot individuals and so when you put them together you get ..... BOOM!... Hot as fuck sex! It was awesome. Trust me ;)
I loved the sweet and sift side to Dylan too, you know after you get over the sexy part. My heart hurt for his younger siblings losing all they did so young and I admired Dylan for how he took charge and was in control. He was my book boyfriend for a VERY long time! :)
Cassie, Luke, Michael and Gabby were all so adorable and I loved reading and getting to know them all as individuals. My heart probably hurt the most for Gabby. Her breakthrough however, had me smiling and laughing. Luke was typical teen boy and I loved him for it. Pain in the ass but a good kid. Cassie and Dylan moments had me in STITCHES. Nothing hotter or funnier than an older, over protective bear of a brother. Trust me, I know, I have 4 lol. Michael was your typical sweet kid. I'd love to adopt my fellow brainiac. So sweet and humble.
The storyline and plot kept me biting my nails and the way it was written was amazing and like I said Nicole, you done me proud with the quality of this book and the amount of time it took you to write it. So my hats off to you lady, well done on such a well deserved 5 star from me! You earned it!
5 UNSOCIAL STARS PEOPLE - *****
Now go read it!! ;)
P.S. Gimme Luke's book now please?
*ARC kindly received via the author in exchange for a honest review*
May 2, 2016
Well.....that was a long, really really really, long read but I loved every page of it. I was in the midst of a book hangover and Coco.V , a GR friend, suggested I try this book. So I did and it worked, so big thanks to Coco!
Dylan is a 26 yr old player. He is a self made millionaire after going into a custom car business with his best friend Jackson. Dylan left behind his disappointed and displeased father plus his step mum and 4 siblings. He's been radio silent for 3 years but one day gets a call that his parents have died in a car crash. Dylan returns home to take care of his siblings (loved the way these kids were written.....parts were really NOT Mary Poppins and sunshine and rainbows) but the judge remembers Dylan from his hell raising school days and sets a limit of a year for Dylan to earn his parenting stripes before he will consider permanent guardianship. Cue Brooke, hot, freshly qualified Social Worker. The Monroe family are her first case and fireworks are about to fly.....
Dylan as a hero was a mixed bag but I did like him. There are a couple of scenes where he is with other women but he and Brooke are not together at those times. And the scenes with ow are really NOT about emotion/ intimacy....they are perfunctory, mechanical and actually don't end that well for Dylan. Don't let it put you off....believe me when I say NOBODY can match up to Brooke for him and he realises this. Once he is all in with Brooke he really is all in. He is protective, loyal , kind and yeah.....he still keeps that tough badass edge. I grew to really like Dylan.
Brooke is a sweet, reformed (kind of) wild child, who wants to make a bad world better. I loved her sweet with a side of sass. Her backstory brought a lump to my throat..
The Monroe siblings are brilliantly written. Great kids and real issues plus witty banter and fun..
The best friends ,Jax and Alex ,were a bit OTT, but they redeemed themselves slowly.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to escape into a long novel that entertains, has some hot sexy times, awesome characters and a sensual slow build plus tears and humour.
Bit more editing would be good but it didn't detract anything for me.
Dylan is a 26 yr old player. He is a self made millionaire after going into a custom car business with his best friend Jackson. Dylan left behind his disappointed and displeased father plus his step mum and 4 siblings. He's been radio silent for 3 years but one day gets a call that his parents have died in a car crash. Dylan returns home to take care of his siblings (loved the way these kids were written.....parts were really NOT Mary Poppins and sunshine and rainbows) but the judge remembers Dylan from his hell raising school days and sets a limit of a year for Dylan to earn his parenting stripes before he will consider permanent guardianship. Cue Brooke, hot, freshly qualified Social Worker. The Monroe family are her first case and fireworks are about to fly.....
Dylan as a hero was a mixed bag but I did like him. There are a couple of scenes where he is with other women but he and Brooke are not together at those times. And the scenes with ow are really NOT about emotion/ intimacy....they are perfunctory, mechanical and actually don't end that well for Dylan. Don't let it put you off....believe me when I say NOBODY can match up to Brooke for him and he realises this. Once he is all in with Brooke he really is all in. He is protective, loyal , kind and yeah.....he still keeps that tough badass edge. I grew to really like Dylan.
Brooke is a sweet, reformed (kind of) wild child, who wants to make a bad world better. I loved her sweet with a side of sass. Her backstory brought a lump to my throat..
The Monroe siblings are brilliantly written. Great kids and real issues plus witty banter and fun..
The best friends ,Jax and Alex ,were a bit OTT, but they redeemed themselves slowly.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to escape into a long novel that entertains, has some hot sexy times, awesome characters and a sensual slow build plus tears and humour.
Bit more editing would be good but it didn't detract anything for me.
March 11, 2016
** I received this book from the author for an honest review**
I loved this book from start to finish.. I loved the kids especially Gabby I really felt for her..
Dylan has a custom car and motorcycle shop with his best friend Jax.
He does what he wants when he wants, until he gets a phone call that is going to change his life completely..
Dylan's parents and youngest sister Gabby are involved in a car accident, his parents die which leaves Dylan to look after his 4 younger siblings..
Brooke is a social worker and is assigned to help the Monroes, she takes a liking to the family and does everything she can to help them, she soon develops feelings for Dylan..
They then begin a relationship but have to hide it from everyone or they will both lose everything..
Although the book was very long i still enjoyed reading it, it was more like reading a series..
Can't wait for more!!
I loved this book from start to finish.. I loved the kids especially Gabby I really felt for her..
Dylan has a custom car and motorcycle shop with his best friend Jax.
He does what he wants when he wants, until he gets a phone call that is going to change his life completely..
Dylan's parents and youngest sister Gabby are involved in a car accident, his parents die which leaves Dylan to look after his 4 younger siblings..
Brooke is a social worker and is assigned to help the Monroes, she takes a liking to the family and does everything she can to help them, she soon develops feelings for Dylan..
They then begin a relationship but have to hide it from everyone or they will both lose everything..
Although the book was very long i still enjoyed reading it, it was more like reading a series..
Can't wait for more!!
March 18, 2016
Unsocial by Nicole Dykes is an amazingly sweet and touching story about growing up and finding love in the most unexpected of places. It has all the right elements to make this read irresistible. We have a tatted bad boy falling for the girl of his dreams in the middle of most inconvenient of circumstances while taking on the responsibility of being the guardian of 4 young lives.
Dylan Monroe is a 26 year old successful high end garage owner. He is a self made man who is enjoying his life to its fullest. Dylan's partying days comes to an end when his father dies leaving his four minor siblings under his care. Dylan's life goes through major adjustments as he fights for the custody of his siblings. His family is strapped with a social worker appointed by the court for a year whose report will deem him fit to be the guardian of his siblings. So, it does not help when sparks fly and Dylan is drawn to the smart and beautiful social worker.
Brooke is starting her career as a social worker and her first case is the Monroe family. She is dedicated and hard working and is determined to make a difference. At the start she is resented by the eldest Monroe but eventually all the members start to trust her and forms a beautiful bond with her. Brooke feels an irresistible attraction to Dylan but being their social worker, any relationship between them would be unprofessional. Thus battling her growing attraction while doing her job poses as a real challenge.
"I've got to shut these insane feelings toward this man down. He's my client, and I can't be thinking of him as anything but my client."
"There's a line I can't cross, even though it seems I am coming awfully close at times."
This story of Dylan and Brooke is very sweet and compassionate. Besides them we have a set of kids whose life changes drastically in a day. They are young and traumatized and are trying to cope with their changes circumstances. Dylan is an adult but he never had to take responsibility for another human being in his life so when he becomes a guardian of his minor siblings, Dylan needs to grow up and become a responsible adult and a role model for his siblings. Along with Dylan, his brothers and sisters struggles to accept their new life. Their growth and their journey to be a real family was very endearing. Their relationship with Dylan and Brooke flourishes throughout the story and i loved it when at the end each of them find their equilibrium.
Dylan and Brooke's romance was very bittersweet. What they had was forbidden but it was as real as it can get. So they both fight for their love. Brooke falls in love with Dylan and his siblings. She was sweet and helps each and every Monroe sibling to heal.
"I want to hold her all night, every night. I don't want to fit in stolen moments with the worry of getting caught.
My only complaint is that the read is too long. The plot progression is nice but at times i was frustrated. So, overall it was a nice family oriented story with very likable characters. The Monroe siblings will win your heart for sure.
*ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!*
March 19, 2016
Unsocial
ARC received from author for an honest review.
Dylan is living the perfect life. He is the owner of a very successful auto body and restoration business. He can have his pick of women and he doesn't worry about anything. That is until he receives a phone call that is going to change his life forever. His parents, who he hasn't seen or talked to in years, have been in a tragic car accident and both of them have died. He is asked to come home and take care of his four younger siblings. He hasn't seen them for three years. Will they want to come home with him? Should he stay in Kansas with them or bring them home to Oklahoma with him where his business is?
UNSOCIAL has Dylan dealing with a social worker named Brooke who is assigned to their case. This is Brooke's first case and she tries to do right by this family, but she is instantly attracted to Dylan. This is not a good thing! Brooke could lose her job if things developed the way she dreams about. How is she going to be able to fight her feelings for Dylan and get the kids where they deserve to be?
The kids are sometimes hysterical and I found myself laughing out loud in many spots of reading UNSOCIAL. They also broke my heart. Their lives have been turned upside down and you can't help but feel their pain. Alex and Jax are good friends to Brooke and Dylan but they are very protective of them and there were a few times I wanted to slap them both and tell them to mind their own business! Even with these some times annoying friends, I found myself on the edge of my seat waiting to see what was going to come next!
Even though UNSOCIAL is a big book, 620 pages, I had no problem reading it. It held my interest the entire time and sucked me right in from the very first page. Not only was I laughing while reading but I was also crying. My emotions were all over the place and I love when an author can do that. So far I have read everything that Ms. Dykes has written and I plan on keeping it that way! Her writing has matured and I can't wait to see what she writes next!
ARC received from author for an honest review.
Dylan is living the perfect life. He is the owner of a very successful auto body and restoration business. He can have his pick of women and he doesn't worry about anything. That is until he receives a phone call that is going to change his life forever. His parents, who he hasn't seen or talked to in years, have been in a tragic car accident and both of them have died. He is asked to come home and take care of his four younger siblings. He hasn't seen them for three years. Will they want to come home with him? Should he stay in Kansas with them or bring them home to Oklahoma with him where his business is?
UNSOCIAL has Dylan dealing with a social worker named Brooke who is assigned to their case. This is Brooke's first case and she tries to do right by this family, but she is instantly attracted to Dylan. This is not a good thing! Brooke could lose her job if things developed the way she dreams about. How is she going to be able to fight her feelings for Dylan and get the kids where they deserve to be?
The kids are sometimes hysterical and I found myself laughing out loud in many spots of reading UNSOCIAL. They also broke my heart. Their lives have been turned upside down and you can't help but feel their pain. Alex and Jax are good friends to Brooke and Dylan but they are very protective of them and there were a few times I wanted to slap them both and tell them to mind their own business! Even with these some times annoying friends, I found myself on the edge of my seat waiting to see what was going to come next!
Even though UNSOCIAL is a big book, 620 pages, I had no problem reading it. It held my interest the entire time and sucked me right in from the very first page. Not only was I laughing while reading but I was also crying. My emotions were all over the place and I love when an author can do that. So far I have read everything that Ms. Dykes has written and I plan on keeping it that way! Her writing has matured and I can't wait to see what she writes next!
July 2, 2016
"I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a honest review."
First off let me say this a long book, but I was so engrossed in the story it held my attention from page to page. Dylan and Brooke had an instant, intense attraction from the start. Dylan is a bad boy good guy with a thriving custom car business with his best friend Jackson. He is a no commitment, one night only, just for sex kind of guy.
Until tragedy strikes and he becomes the sole guardian for his four younger siblings.
That just so happens, he hasn't seen or talked to in the last three years because he had a blow up with his Dad.
Thus, entering the beautiful social worker Brooke who must monitor Dylan and the children for a year before his guardianship can become legal.
The instant attraction and chemistry they have cannot be acted on or they risk Dylan losing the children. But he begins to experience intense feelings for Brooke that are unfamiliar and he has a hard time reigning them in. When things really heat up between them they cross the line jeopardizing everything.
Does Dylan make the decision to do what's best for him or for the children that he now, cannot imagine his life without?
Battling the court system and best friends
while pursuing someone who could potentially change his life for better or worse
made for a story I didn't want to end!
I loved it and can't thank Nicole enough gifting me a fantastic story.
First off let me say this a long book, but I was so engrossed in the story it held my attention from page to page. Dylan and Brooke had an instant, intense attraction from the start. Dylan is a bad boy good guy with a thriving custom car business with his best friend Jackson. He is a no commitment, one night only, just for sex kind of guy.
Until tragedy strikes and he becomes the sole guardian for his four younger siblings.
That just so happens, he hasn't seen or talked to in the last three years because he had a blow up with his Dad.
Thus, entering the beautiful social worker Brooke who must monitor Dylan and the children for a year before his guardianship can become legal.
The instant attraction and chemistry they have cannot be acted on or they risk Dylan losing the children. But he begins to experience intense feelings for Brooke that are unfamiliar and he has a hard time reigning them in. When things really heat up between them they cross the line jeopardizing everything.
Does Dylan make the decision to do what's best for him or for the children that he now, cannot imagine his life without?
Battling the court system and best friends
while pursuing someone who could potentially change his life for better or worse
made for a story I didn't want to end!
I loved it and can't thank Nicole enough gifting me a fantastic story.
March 29, 2016
When an author can make you hate and like a character at the same time, that is some very good writing. This book was extremely longer than normal books I read and the first thirty percent was very frustrating. But as the book continued on it blossomed into a very engaging read. I absolutely loved the way an arrogant, self-righteous man like Dylan, turned into a caring older brother to his siblings, after losing their parents. The transformation was amazing.
I also, really liked Brooke's character, she was very understanding and helpful when dealing with this family and the attraction between Dylan and Brooke was steamy hot.
Overall, I enjoyed this read as I have all of Nicole Dykes books. She's very talented and pens an amazing story.
I also, really liked Brooke's character, she was very understanding and helpful when dealing with this family and the attraction between Dylan and Brooke was steamy hot.
Overall, I enjoyed this read as I have all of Nicole Dykes books. She's very talented and pens an amazing story.
March 3, 2016
Arc received in exchange for an honest review.
This is my 1st novel by Nicole Dykes, and positive to say, it will not be my last. I love her writing style and character development. I'm not normally the reviewer who hands out 5 stars, but after thinking about it and the fact I refused to leave my house today, because I JUST HAD TO FINISH IT I'm so glad I did, it was absolutely worth the feral children when my husband returned from work.
Well where do I start, hello fricken amazing. Nicole Dykes has smashed this story out of the park. Unsocial is a very long, in depth story featuring great characters that are loveable, attracting, crazy and melt your heart. So many emotions showec during this book, I laughed, I was sad ( not quite crying ), anger.... they were all there.
Dylan Monroe has the perfect bachelor life. he has women as it beckon call, a hugely successful car business with best friend Jackson and a very healthy bank account to match. Life couldn't be any better, until he gets a phone call that changes his whole life.
With the very sudden death of his father and step mother, his perfect life is turned upside down. In a huge rush he leaves Oklahoma to be guardian to his younger siblings. It has been 3 years since he has seen them, so the reunion is anything but beautiful. He is faced with Luke a 16 yr old brother so full of attitude, Cassie a hormonal 14 yr old sister, Micheal a 10 yr old book nerd brother, and Gabby, a 6 yr old who won't speak. If that isn't bad enough, Dylan is thrown in front of an asshole judge who refuses to give him full custody, instead making him temporary guardian with a social worker to oversee his care of the children.
Brooke Porter has waited forever to become a social worker in Kansas City, and her 1st job, is the Monroe family. with the death of their parents 4 younger siblings have been placed into care with older brother Dylan for 12 months before permanent custody is given to him. Walking into a house full of sadness and attitude, she knows she has her work set out for her. Knowing she is there to help them transition into a normal family, it is Dylan who makes it difficult for her.
Worming her way into their lives should have been totally professional, but quickly she strikes up a friendship with Cassie, the eldest sister and despite the fact Dylan wants to hate her, he becomes so dependant on her that relationships develop and professional lines become blurred. Knowing they must become a united front but keep feelings sidelined, it is not long before Dylan and Brooke give into temptation and thinking he can just screw Brooke out if his mind, Dylan underestimates his feelings towards his social worker.
But with so much against them, including her best friend Alex, his best friend Jax, her career, together Dylan and Brooke take the step together, and when they are discovered all hell breaks loose. One crazy night was all it was supposed to be, now they may loose everything they have worked months for....
So as I said, this is a crazy long book, but for me it kept, enthralled with the lives of the individual children and their struggles with their parents deaths, the trauma of funerals , new home, a brother they hardly know and the crazy gorgeous social worker who keeps them together. Well done, on a fantastic story Ms Dykes. Loved it!!!
This is my 1st novel by Nicole Dykes, and positive to say, it will not be my last. I love her writing style and character development. I'm not normally the reviewer who hands out 5 stars, but after thinking about it and the fact I refused to leave my house today, because I JUST HAD TO FINISH IT I'm so glad I did, it was absolutely worth the feral children when my husband returned from work.
Well where do I start, hello fricken amazing. Nicole Dykes has smashed this story out of the park. Unsocial is a very long, in depth story featuring great characters that are loveable, attracting, crazy and melt your heart. So many emotions showec during this book, I laughed, I was sad ( not quite crying ), anger.... they were all there.
Dylan Monroe has the perfect bachelor life. he has women as it beckon call, a hugely successful car business with best friend Jackson and a very healthy bank account to match. Life couldn't be any better, until he gets a phone call that changes his whole life.
With the very sudden death of his father and step mother, his perfect life is turned upside down. In a huge rush he leaves Oklahoma to be guardian to his younger siblings. It has been 3 years since he has seen them, so the reunion is anything but beautiful. He is faced with Luke a 16 yr old brother so full of attitude, Cassie a hormonal 14 yr old sister, Micheal a 10 yr old book nerd brother, and Gabby, a 6 yr old who won't speak. If that isn't bad enough, Dylan is thrown in front of an asshole judge who refuses to give him full custody, instead making him temporary guardian with a social worker to oversee his care of the children.
Brooke Porter has waited forever to become a social worker in Kansas City, and her 1st job, is the Monroe family. with the death of their parents 4 younger siblings have been placed into care with older brother Dylan for 12 months before permanent custody is given to him. Walking into a house full of sadness and attitude, she knows she has her work set out for her. Knowing she is there to help them transition into a normal family, it is Dylan who makes it difficult for her.
Worming her way into their lives should have been totally professional, but quickly she strikes up a friendship with Cassie, the eldest sister and despite the fact Dylan wants to hate her, he becomes so dependant on her that relationships develop and professional lines become blurred. Knowing they must become a united front but keep feelings sidelined, it is not long before Dylan and Brooke give into temptation and thinking he can just screw Brooke out if his mind, Dylan underestimates his feelings towards his social worker.
But with so much against them, including her best friend Alex, his best friend Jax, her career, together Dylan and Brooke take the step together, and when they are discovered all hell breaks loose. One crazy night was all it was supposed to be, now they may loose everything they have worked months for....
So as I said, this is a crazy long book, but for me it kept, enthralled with the lives of the individual children and their struggles with their parents deaths, the trauma of funerals , new home, a brother they hardly know and the crazy gorgeous social worker who keeps them together. Well done, on a fantastic story Ms Dykes. Loved it!!!
September 26, 2023
This might be the first time a Nicole Dykes book didn't work out for me in some way. I am going to keep this brief and simple. It was as simple as I hated how the hero and heroine were so wrapped up in their own crap that they couldn't see what was right in front of them. Yes, I get it. Sometimes it makes a good story but not when it is this long. Call it a pet peeve if you will.
Going to leave this here and give it three stars because there isn't much else, I have to say that you can't find in another review.
Going to leave this here and give it three stars because there isn't much else, I have to say that you can't find in another review.
March 1, 2016
I was given this book by the author for an honest review. 4.5 stars.
Dylan and Brooke were brought together when Brooke was given her first family as a social worker and Dylan had to move towns to take care of his brothers and sisters because of an accident with his parents. Brooke became a main fixture in the household every Tuesday and after a month or two their attraction to each other was becoming strong and hard to resist. After trying to solve the attraction problem it didn't work and a secret fling began.
I loved all the characters in this book. Dylan was hot and Brooke was loving and caring and all the kids were great and fun to read about. There was also Brooke best friend and Dylan best friend too in the story who were great and would love to see a story of each of them.
I would love to have gave this 5 starts but the only this that made me gave it 4.5 was it was ended short on epilogue and I also felt it was too far stretched out a little but not by much. xx
Dylan and Brooke were brought together when Brooke was given her first family as a social worker and Dylan had to move towns to take care of his brothers and sisters because of an accident with his parents. Brooke became a main fixture in the household every Tuesday and after a month or two their attraction to each other was becoming strong and hard to resist. After trying to solve the attraction problem it didn't work and a secret fling began.
I loved all the characters in this book. Dylan was hot and Brooke was loving and caring and all the kids were great and fun to read about. There was also Brooke best friend and Dylan best friend too in the story who were great and would love to see a story of each of them.
I would love to have gave this 5 starts but the only this that made me gave it 4.5 was it was ended short on epilogue and I also felt it was too far stretched out a little but not by much. xx
March 3, 2016
4 Stars!!! I am not really someone to write long reviews but as I was gifted an ARC I'll do my best it will be short though.
So I liked the characters and the story line, loved the kids. The beginning of the book was a bit sad I felt so much for Gabby, all the the kids really but Gabby stole my heart. I must admit I was a bit put off by Dylan but I warmed up to him as the book progressed. Brooke was an amazing character so strong and she was devoted to helping this family.
Alex and Jake at some stage was a bit to much but i loved the way they wanted to help their friends.
For me this was a sweet read.
Well done miss Dykes!
So I liked the characters and the story line, loved the kids. The beginning of the book was a bit sad I felt so much for Gabby, all the the kids really but Gabby stole my heart. I must admit I was a bit put off by Dylan but I warmed up to him as the book progressed. Brooke was an amazing character so strong and she was devoted to helping this family.
Alex and Jake at some stage was a bit to much but i loved the way they wanted to help their friends.
For me this was a sweet read.
Well done miss Dykes!
February 29, 2016
I was provided an ARC for an honest review
by the author.
I really liked this book. I have read
all of Ms. Dykes previous works and
I have to say that I am loving this
NA side to her writing. Her writing
has matured and it was really good.
I loved Dylan and Brooke together,
especially how Brooke is there for
Dylan. The kids were written
perfect and I could see them interacting
in my mind as I was reading it!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and
will definitely read more by this
author!
by the author.
I really liked this book. I have read
all of Ms. Dykes previous works and
I have to say that I am loving this
NA side to her writing. Her writing
has matured and it was really good.
I loved Dylan and Brooke together,
especially how Brooke is there for
Dylan. The kids were written
perfect and I could see them interacting
in my mind as I was reading it!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and
will definitely read more by this
author!
March 8, 2016
3.5 stars
I really liked this story, it was different. Just I found a lot of unnecessary pages didn't need to be in the story, some of it was boring
I loved all the kids and their best friends... Not a lot of drama it's just a story
I really liked this story, it was different. Just I found a lot of unnecessary pages didn't need to be in the story, some of it was boring
I loved all the kids and their best friends... Not a lot of drama it's just a story
February 4, 2019
Stepping Up
I enjoyed the story to a point. The idea behind it, though sad was something that could turn into a really good read. But I found myself losing interest and putting it down to only pick up later.
Dylan is living it up with his best friend Jax. They own a premier custom shop restoring classic cars. They’ve done extremely well both millionaires and only 26. That’s not my issue. My issue is he seems or to me anyway, he comes across as a ‘look at me’ kind of guy. Always harping on about what he has. I get it your rich. Just stop.
When he gets the call that his parents have passed away he steps up big time. Dropping everything and leaving immediately with Jax to go back home. He’d had a falling out with his dad years earlier and he never got the chance to reconcile with him. So not only is he dealing with the guilt of that he has his four siblings relying on him.
Brooke was a wild child when she was younger, but not so much now that’s all locked away. She’s also the social worker assigned to the Monroe family. Seeing Dylan for the first time is emotional. He’s angry that he wasn’t granted full custody and doesn’t like the idea of a do-gooder social worker meddling in their lives.
The tension was there at first. These kids had just had their whole lives ripped away. All different and struggling in grief. I loved the kids.
I just couldn’t engage with the leads. At all. Dylan had some really redeeming qualities and then he’d open his mouth and I wanted to slap him. Brooke was the same. You’d see her interact with kids and she was gold then she’d do something and your scratching your head and thinking how old is she? I think I thought that with all the main characters to be honest.
This was my take and I’m sure there are a lot of you who loved this book but it wasn’t for me. Apart from all that it seemed as though it’d never end. The author did a good job I just think half of it needed not be there.
I enjoyed the story to a point. The idea behind it, though sad was something that could turn into a really good read. But I found myself losing interest and putting it down to only pick up later.
Dylan is living it up with his best friend Jax. They own a premier custom shop restoring classic cars. They’ve done extremely well both millionaires and only 26. That’s not my issue. My issue is he seems or to me anyway, he comes across as a ‘look at me’ kind of guy. Always harping on about what he has. I get it your rich. Just stop.
When he gets the call that his parents have passed away he steps up big time. Dropping everything and leaving immediately with Jax to go back home. He’d had a falling out with his dad years earlier and he never got the chance to reconcile with him. So not only is he dealing with the guilt of that he has his four siblings relying on him.
Brooke was a wild child when she was younger, but not so much now that’s all locked away. She’s also the social worker assigned to the Monroe family. Seeing Dylan for the first time is emotional. He’s angry that he wasn’t granted full custody and doesn’t like the idea of a do-gooder social worker meddling in their lives.
The tension was there at first. These kids had just had their whole lives ripped away. All different and struggling in grief. I loved the kids.
I just couldn’t engage with the leads. At all. Dylan had some really redeeming qualities and then he’d open his mouth and I wanted to slap him. Brooke was the same. You’d see her interact with kids and she was gold then she’d do something and your scratching your head and thinking how old is she? I think I thought that with all the main characters to be honest.
This was my take and I’m sure there are a lot of you who loved this book but it wasn’t for me. Apart from all that it seemed as though it’d never end. The author did a good job I just think half of it needed not be there.
March 3, 2016
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
After reading the blurb, it definitely caught my interest and decided to give this a go. A social worker and a business owner with younger siblings to take care of after a car accident that killed the parents - a plot with a lot of full potential. But sadly, it fell flat for me.
Let me list the things that didn't work.
1. Dylan.
He's a 26 years old (supposedly a successful business owner of a custom car and motorcycle shop) and is already a millionaire because of that. The bad boy attitude was a huge MEH. He sounds a lot like an immature, unapologetic jerk. Maybe it's because I've just recently read a Male POV book by this author (best MPOV writer out there IMHO), my standard for a badass H is too high - like really. Dylan's POV didn't convince me for what the author is trying to portray him. I get that he's a bachelor playing the field, not ready to settle down blah blah blah - he just bored me to death. I kept rolling my eyes and was about ready to give up and wave the white flag when he went to see Brooke and actually called her after meeting her an "uptight chick with a stick up her ass", maybe it was the business partner/friend who said it but anyway, I mean WTF? She's the case worker for goodness sake. He's fighting for the full custody of his siblings. Why would be barge there and kind of harass the case worker without any appointment and then call her an uptight bitch because she said all the right things he had to do to be granted full custody?
Sorry, I am ranting but I can't help it. Hot? Nope, a total jerk. I also get that it's all of sudden thing that's going to change his single life, but geez, those kids are family. Unless he wants them to enter the system. (He's a millionaire, right?) Not like he's hurting and all.
All I'm saying is, he's got to be in good behavior. He has to adjust and not be a jerk and show the judge (that he got history with) that he's changed and can fully support the kids. Not whine all the freaking time. After the first chapter, I didn't really care about him at all. Not interested. Nada. Which is totally frustrating because let's be honest, I like reading sexy Heroes with bad ass attitude. Without them, the books won't feel right at all.
2. Brooke
After being uninterested with the H of the story, I kept reading because I thought the heroine might be different and save the book. I was actually liking her, the banter with her co-workers and kinda made me laugh a bit but that all changed when she was ....
"hit with the sexiest smelling men’s cologne to hit her olfactory system."
and
"look up, up, up at the most gorgeous male specimen to cross her path."
My god. Seriously. She's all -- going to be working hard as a social worker, because that's what she wants to do, for grandma and all that then suddenly turned into a horny cat who talks and acts like she hasn't had sex for a thousand years. Why, hello, someone came to see you, who's actually the case you're going to work on. That person who's being a jerk and asking questions like he's the freaking king of the world and you think he's the hottest guy ever? Wow. Talk about a major turn off.
After that, I just pushed myself, reading on and off, to finish the book. I didn't want to put it on my DNF shelf and wanted to give a rating. What do I expect from a book where the H and h didn't work for me? That only saving grace were the kids (Gabby and Michael), and oh, Jax - I find him mysterious in some ways.
I'm giving this one point five star for the effort of the author. The writing is flat and too much detail to the point of being boring and unexciting. Maybe if I have read this like four years ago, I might have liked it and given three stars. But after discovering spectacular writings by some authors out there... going to be tough to top them on my shelves.
After reading the blurb, it definitely caught my interest and decided to give this a go. A social worker and a business owner with younger siblings to take care of after a car accident that killed the parents - a plot with a lot of full potential. But sadly, it fell flat for me.
Let me list the things that didn't work.
1. Dylan.
He's a 26 years old (supposedly a successful business owner of a custom car and motorcycle shop) and is already a millionaire because of that. The bad boy attitude was a huge MEH. He sounds a lot like an immature, unapologetic jerk. Maybe it's because I've just recently read a Male POV book by this author (best MPOV writer out there IMHO), my standard for a badass H is too high - like really. Dylan's POV didn't convince me for what the author is trying to portray him. I get that he's a bachelor playing the field, not ready to settle down blah blah blah - he just bored me to death. I kept rolling my eyes and was about ready to give up and wave the white flag when he went to see Brooke and actually called her after meeting her an "uptight chick with a stick up her ass", maybe it was the business partner/friend who said it but anyway, I mean WTF? She's the case worker for goodness sake. He's fighting for the full custody of his siblings. Why would be barge there and kind of harass the case worker without any appointment and then call her an uptight bitch because she said all the right things he had to do to be granted full custody?
Sorry, I am ranting but I can't help it. Hot? Nope, a total jerk. I also get that it's all of sudden thing that's going to change his single life, but geez, those kids are family. Unless he wants them to enter the system. (He's a millionaire, right?) Not like he's hurting and all.
All I'm saying is, he's got to be in good behavior. He has to adjust and not be a jerk and show the judge (that he got history with) that he's changed and can fully support the kids. Not whine all the freaking time. After the first chapter, I didn't really care about him at all. Not interested. Nada. Which is totally frustrating because let's be honest, I like reading sexy Heroes with bad ass attitude. Without them, the books won't feel right at all.
2. Brooke
After being uninterested with the H of the story, I kept reading because I thought the heroine might be different and save the book. I was actually liking her, the banter with her co-workers and kinda made me laugh a bit but that all changed when she was ....
"hit with the sexiest smelling men’s cologne to hit her olfactory system."
and
"look up, up, up at the most gorgeous male specimen to cross her path."
My god. Seriously. She's all -- going to be working hard as a social worker, because that's what she wants to do, for grandma and all that then suddenly turned into a horny cat who talks and acts like she hasn't had sex for a thousand years. Why, hello, someone came to see you, who's actually the case you're going to work on. That person who's being a jerk and asking questions like he's the freaking king of the world and you think he's the hottest guy ever? Wow. Talk about a major turn off.
After that, I just pushed myself, reading on and off, to finish the book. I didn't want to put it on my DNF shelf and wanted to give a rating. What do I expect from a book where the H and h didn't work for me? That only saving grace were the kids (Gabby and Michael), and oh, Jax - I find him mysterious in some ways.
I'm giving this one point five star for the effort of the author. The writing is flat and too much detail to the point of being boring and unexciting. Maybe if I have read this like four years ago, I might have liked it and given three stars. But after discovering spectacular writings by some authors out there... going to be tough to top them on my shelves.
February 28, 2016
4.5 Stars - A HeartWarming Story that stirs up so many emotions
I thoroughly enjoyed this book by Nicole Dykes. Dylan is a young man who has just gained responsibility of his four younger siblings after the untimely death of his parents. He has been estranged from the family for three years and is all of a sudden having to care for his two brothers and sisters. Brooke is the social worker assigned to ensure that Dylan is capable of this responsibility. Brooke and Dylan are instantly attracted to one another but because of the situation are not necessarily able to act on it.
Every single one of the characters in this book is very well written from Dylan and Brooke to the supporting cast. There are so many moments in this book that focus on each individual and what they are going through and I loved that about the book. It became more than a love story to me and that really makes this book stand out from others. I also found myself falling in love not just with Brooke and Dylan with all the children in this book where you wish you could wrap your arms around all of them and tell them it will be ok.
I will say that this is a rather long book but so worth it to take the time and read. I can see this book as a movie some day as well. It was just written so well. Definitely a read I highly recommend.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I thoroughly enjoyed this book by Nicole Dykes. Dylan is a young man who has just gained responsibility of his four younger siblings after the untimely death of his parents. He has been estranged from the family for three years and is all of a sudden having to care for his two brothers and sisters. Brooke is the social worker assigned to ensure that Dylan is capable of this responsibility. Brooke and Dylan are instantly attracted to one another but because of the situation are not necessarily able to act on it.
Every single one of the characters in this book is very well written from Dylan and Brooke to the supporting cast. There are so many moments in this book that focus on each individual and what they are going through and I loved that about the book. It became more than a love story to me and that really makes this book stand out from others. I also found myself falling in love not just with Brooke and Dylan with all the children in this book where you wish you could wrap your arms around all of them and tell them it will be ok.
I will say that this is a rather long book but so worth it to take the time and read. I can see this book as a movie some day as well. It was just written so well. Definitely a read I highly recommend.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
March 8, 2016
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I have to say that this book is amazing. I have been reading a lot of books but not like this one. First I know people are going to say that it is a long book and to that I say yes it is but the story is so good that you follow along and before you know it you are done reading because you can't put it down.
This is the story of Dylan & Brooke. Dylan has it all. He has moved to another town and started a custom car and motorcycle shop with his best friend. He is living his life and doing what he wants to do for a change. That is until he gets a phone call and in that instance his life is changed.
Dylan gets a call in regards to his siblings and his life is changed forever. See Brooke is a social worker and she has taken a liking to the Monroe children. She knows she is not supposed to but she can't help it. So when they have to be removed from the home she contacts their oldest sibling and that is Dylan. As Dylan fights to get custody of his siblings he starts to have feelings for Brooke.
But can anything come from this? Can Brooke and Dylan have a relationship that will last? This is a story that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat needing to turn the page faster.
This is the story of Dylan & Brooke. Dylan has it all. He has moved to another town and started a custom car and motorcycle shop with his best friend. He is living his life and doing what he wants to do for a change. That is until he gets a phone call and in that instance his life is changed.
Dylan gets a call in regards to his siblings and his life is changed forever. See Brooke is a social worker and she has taken a liking to the Monroe children. She knows she is not supposed to but she can't help it. So when they have to be removed from the home she contacts their oldest sibling and that is Dylan. As Dylan fights to get custody of his siblings he starts to have feelings for Brooke.
But can anything come from this? Can Brooke and Dylan have a relationship that will last? This is a story that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat needing to turn the page faster.
February 27, 2016
Exceptional book. All the characters make you want to root for them. Their obstacles are real, and the way they fight for each other is inspiring. You'll want to step inside the pages and help the Monroe family find their way as they work through the trials life has thrown at them. The characters are strong, and watching them become stronger is quite a ride. A strong storyline with exceptional characters to carry it make this book one you don't want to put down.
July 8, 2016
Really enjoyed this book. Even started the book after reading the second, so I kinda knew how things turned out. But it was great reading Brooke and Dylan's beginning. Very curious to learn more about Jax and Alex.
Super long. So if you aren't in the mood to give it the time to develop, move on. But it's worth the time.
Super long. So if you aren't in the mood to give it the time to develop, move on. But it's worth the time.
November 28, 2018
Oh my gosh! This was BRUTAL! The length alone was enough to drive me insane. On and on and on and on it went. Repetition galore. Back and forth. Argh! I just about died. This book definitely needed an editor or honest beta readers because I don't understand how anyone can endure this without wanting to stab themselves and the author. The story had great potential with the characters being relatable and real. But the length was off-putting and the only thing I'll remember about reading this.
March 31, 2016
It’s not every day an author reaches out to you and tells you she enjoys reading your reviews and asks if you have time to read her book and review it as well. Excuse me while I have a Fan girl moment *jumping up and down whooping and hollering* Ok, I’m back. Needless to say I accepted with open arms and gracious “omg and thank you” This is the first book I’ve read by the very talented Nicole Dykes and it won’t be my last. In fact I’m counting down till her next Monroe series book is released!!
While the book is on the longer side (which I was warned about) I was pulled in from the start and didn’t even seem to notice just how long this story was. Time just flew by in an endless roller-coaster of emotions. I went from happy to sad to scared in the span of 2 chapters. I was looking for bi-polar medication to help stabilize my mood swings at my local drug store, I was that concerned. When they can make you question your own mental health and well being because you becomes so invested in these characters and their life, and rooting for them as if they were members of your own family! That’s how you know you got a great book written by an equally talented author.
Dylan Monroe is living the dream, baby. He has his own multi-million dollar business, he is hot, he has charm and he isn’t afraid to use it nightly on all of women kind. He has it all, and lives for himself. That is until tragedy calls him late one night and leaves a voicemail that will forever change his life. He suddenly finds himself in Kansas City as sole guardian of his 4 younger siblings. Siblings he hasn’t seen in almost 3 years. Dylan is so complete out of his element that he soon finds he has no clue what he is doing, or how he will raise these kids on his own . Then an angel appears, however he is so focused on being angry and stressed that he ends up biting her head off rather then lay on the charm.
Brooke Potter is just starting out in her new career as a Social Worker. She walks in day one ready to save the world one case at a time. Her first case is the Monroe family and as she does some reading into their file she is determined to give the Monroe’s their happy ending by the time she is done with them. Her bleeding heart was left all over the Monroe house hold. She gave her all to this family and feel in love with each and every one of them. But only Dylan got some extra extra attention. It was so fun to watch these two tip toe around the big polka dotted elephant in the room; their strong sexual attraction to one another. They fought it and fought it and then tried to give in to it a kiss at a time, but by 50% I was shouting at my kindle to just “do it already” I mean I was going crazy with lust so I can only imagine how Dylan and Brooke were feeling!
What I really enjoyed was how realistic this book felt. The author did a great job on her researched and really nailed the role of a social worker. I would in this field and as I was reading I found myself nodding along in agreement or understanding to suggestions, and thoughts Brooke had. Now, I’ve never met a client who has left me punk drunk with lust to the point where I just stare at him gapping like a fish out of water (unfortunately). However, if I ever found/ find myself in the same position as our dear Brooke did, and get a client as sexy as Dylan Monroe on my caseload, I’d like to think I would be strong enough not to blur the lines of professionalism. But I think we all know I’d most likely put in my 2 weeks’ notice and go play house with my very own sexy version of Dylan Monroe!
I really enjoyed this story, and I can’t wait to see what else this author has in store for this family and future books. I am honored she reached out to little ol’ me and asked me to read and review her story, Thank you Nicole! I recommend this book to anyone who ever wondered just how far you are willing to go in the name of love.
** ARC was kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review **
While the book is on the longer side (which I was warned about) I was pulled in from the start and didn’t even seem to notice just how long this story was. Time just flew by in an endless roller-coaster of emotions. I went from happy to sad to scared in the span of 2 chapters. I was looking for bi-polar medication to help stabilize my mood swings at my local drug store, I was that concerned. When they can make you question your own mental health and well being because you becomes so invested in these characters and their life, and rooting for them as if they were members of your own family! That’s how you know you got a great book written by an equally talented author.
Dylan Monroe is living the dream, baby. He has his own multi-million dollar business, he is hot, he has charm and he isn’t afraid to use it nightly on all of women kind. He has it all, and lives for himself. That is until tragedy calls him late one night and leaves a voicemail that will forever change his life. He suddenly finds himself in Kansas City as sole guardian of his 4 younger siblings. Siblings he hasn’t seen in almost 3 years. Dylan is so complete out of his element that he soon finds he has no clue what he is doing, or how he will raise these kids on his own . Then an angel appears, however he is so focused on being angry and stressed that he ends up biting her head off rather then lay on the charm.
Brooke Potter is just starting out in her new career as a Social Worker. She walks in day one ready to save the world one case at a time. Her first case is the Monroe family and as she does some reading into their file she is determined to give the Monroe’s their happy ending by the time she is done with them. Her bleeding heart was left all over the Monroe house hold. She gave her all to this family and feel in love with each and every one of them. But only Dylan got some extra extra attention. It was so fun to watch these two tip toe around the big polka dotted elephant in the room; their strong sexual attraction to one another. They fought it and fought it and then tried to give in to it a kiss at a time, but by 50% I was shouting at my kindle to just “do it already” I mean I was going crazy with lust so I can only imagine how Dylan and Brooke were feeling!
What I really enjoyed was how realistic this book felt. The author did a great job on her researched and really nailed the role of a social worker. I would in this field and as I was reading I found myself nodding along in agreement or understanding to suggestions, and thoughts Brooke had. Now, I’ve never met a client who has left me punk drunk with lust to the point where I just stare at him gapping like a fish out of water (unfortunately). However, if I ever found/ find myself in the same position as our dear Brooke did, and get a client as sexy as Dylan Monroe on my caseload, I’d like to think I would be strong enough not to blur the lines of professionalism. But I think we all know I’d most likely put in my 2 weeks’ notice and go play house with my very own sexy version of Dylan Monroe!
I really enjoyed this story, and I can’t wait to see what else this author has in store for this family and future books. I am honored she reached out to little ol’ me and asked me to read and review her story, Thank you Nicole! I recommend this book to anyone who ever wondered just how far you are willing to go in the name of love.
** ARC was kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review **
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