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Loose Ends #2
Scars and Ruin
The man known as Dutch is fine with being hated and feared. He keeps his mask on and his secrets close. There’s only one person who reaches past all that to who he used to be before the job hit too close to home. Sacrifices must be made, and Dutch steps up do just that. He’ll gladly pay the price to make sure Varun Patel is safe.
Loyalty to family expects it. His heart demands it.
And Patel rejects it.
Half of Varun Patel’s life resides in broken shadows he’d rather not remember. The other half is taken up by a man whose words push him away while his actions hold Patel close. Patel can’t forget the one night he spent in Dane Hutchins’ arms. The night promises were made. The night promises were broken.
If it were up to Dutch, Patel won’t ever know the bargains struck in his name. He won’t ever know the memory of them keeps Dutch fighting in his bleakest moments. But Dutch should’ve known that in the lonely hours, Patel would come for him.
And when that time arrives, there’s no saying no. There’s only the inevitable.
Love amid the ruins.
Warning: Contains references to sexual abuse/rape.
Loyalty to family expects it. His heart demands it.
And Patel rejects it.
Half of Varun Patel’s life resides in broken shadows he’d rather not remember. The other half is taken up by a man whose words push him away while his actions hold Patel close. Patel can’t forget the one night he spent in Dane Hutchins’ arms. The night promises were made. The night promises were broken.
If it were up to Dutch, Patel won’t ever know the bargains struck in his name. He won’t ever know the memory of them keeps Dutch fighting in his bleakest moments. But Dutch should’ve known that in the lonely hours, Patel would come for him.
And when that time arrives, there’s no saying no. There’s only the inevitable.
Love amid the ruins.
Warning: Contains references to sexual abuse/rape.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2016
103 people are currently reading
706 people want to read
About the author
Avril Ashton
78 books1,675 followersA Caribbean transplant, Avril now lives in Stone Mountain, GA., with a tolerant Spousal Equivalent. Together they raise an eccentric daughter who loves reading and school (not so much school anymore). Avril’s earliest memories of reading revolve around discussing plot points of Nancy Drew and The Hardy Boys with an equally book-minded mother
Always in love with the written word, Avril finally decided to do the writing in August of ’09 and never looked back. Spicy love scenes, delicious heroes, and wicked women burn up the pages of Avril’s stories, but there’ll always be a happy ending; Av remains a believer of love in all its forms.
Always in love with the written word, Avril finally decided to do the writing in August of ’09 and never looked back. Spicy love scenes, delicious heroes, and wicked women burn up the pages of Avril’s stories, but there’ll always be a happy ending; Av remains a believer of love in all its forms.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
July 16, 2018
3.75 Stars
"When you invite love in, you also invite the pain."
Four years ago, on the day Patel’s father died, Dutch slept with him and told him he loved him, then turned around and betrayed him, said he doesn’t want him anymore and they can’t go on like this. He’d spoken the words himself, loud and clear and concise. That day he shattered Patel. But really, Dutch doesn’t want him? So if he doesn’t, then why can’t he think of anyone else? Why his days and nights are empty! Why is he jealous of everyone who's touching him? Why he can’t bear being near him and not touching him! Why he feels so empty! Ahh, maybe it’s because of all those secrets he's hidden! The deal with the devil!
When the first time I met Dutch (in book one) I really didn’t like him. He was one of those who do everything to get what they want, no matter who’s in their way or whose life they have to destroy! But now that I read his story Somehow I feel him, I know why he did all those things! Yeah, they all were wrong but still… I loved Patel for not pulling back, for not losing his hope, for being insistence on his love! Like always I enjoyed Ms. Ashton’s book but it took a bit more time to warm up to the story this time but then I was really enjoying it. Told in dual POV (except for a part of the epilogue), 3rd person. It’s the second installment in the "Loose Ends" series with character crossover. So well-written with a perfect story-line, full of emotions, and an angsty read. Overall, really liked it and hope you enjoy it as well!
"When you invite love in, you also invite the pain."
Four years ago, on the day Patel’s father died, Dutch slept with him and told him he loved him, then turned around and betrayed him, said he doesn’t want him anymore and they can’t go on like this. He’d spoken the words himself, loud and clear and concise. That day he shattered Patel. But really, Dutch doesn’t want him? So if he doesn’t, then why can’t he think of anyone else? Why his days and nights are empty! Why is he jealous of everyone who's touching him? Why he can’t bear being near him and not touching him! Why he feels so empty! Ahh, maybe it’s because of all those secrets he's hidden! The deal with the devil!
When the first time I met Dutch (in book one) I really didn’t like him. He was one of those who do everything to get what they want, no matter who’s in their way or whose life they have to destroy! But now that I read his story Somehow I feel him, I know why he did all those things! Yeah, they all were wrong but still… I loved Patel for not pulling back, for not losing his hope, for being insistence on his love! Like always I enjoyed Ms. Ashton’s book but it took a bit more time to warm up to the story this time but then I was really enjoying it. Told in dual POV (except for a part of the epilogue), 3rd person. It’s the second installment in the "Loose Ends" series with character crossover. So well-written with a perfect story-line, full of emotions, and an angsty read. Overall, really liked it and hope you enjoy it as well!
April 5, 2018
~PASS THE DUTCHY~
Book 2, in this spine tingling, giving you girl boner series. While it didn’t kill me dead like the first book it did have some intense sexy moments and as you already know bad boys are my aesthetic. And these boys are the right type of bad...
Dutch aka Dane aka Hunter is a hard man. He doesn’t play by the rules and will do anything necessary to achieve his goal, so along the way he’s made a lot of enemies. What he does the best, is protecting those he loves and there is nothing that he won’t do to cement their safety. What he’s willing to do to protect Varun Patel is a sky is the limit thing. Varun makes him weak, Varun makes him vulnerable but he needs him close. Years ago, they could have made a future together but reality has a way of slapping you in the face and calling you it’s bitch and Dutch is a bitch to realism. He deals in death and secrets so there is no room for love. Love is for other people, guilt and yearning was made for him.
Varun Patel wants Dutch something fierce but the man keeps pushing him away. He wants all that he is, the bad and good because Dutch is the man who is his everything. The job they do puts them in so much danger and can leave a man to turn to stone but Dutch…Dutch brings him to life. So, the fighting is done and its damn time they find happiness, he’s done running away because now the only running he’ll be doing is into Dutch’s arms.
Let me tell you something, I really hated Dutch in the previous books. He was a low down mofo without morals and ethics. Alas, there’s a rhyme to his reasons and while he isn’t always making money moves his heart was sometimes in the right place (well kinda in the right place but a little crooked to the left).
The biggest obstacle these two had were secrets. So much secrets its like they wrote the book on it. Is there anything more frustrating than tough guys hiding all their manly feelings? Just man paining all over the place. It’s both a frustration and a beautiful thing 😩
Look at this man pain…. 😅
Again we have the oldies but goodies with the characters we’ve all come to love. I’m just waiting for an avenger type assemble because these dudes be crossing paths and hating on each other which really at this point it’s nothing but brotherly love. They be so hating!!
Scars and Ruin is another amazingly entertaining read from this author. What you need to remember with these books is that all this shit is not out for a realistic feeling but a good time feeling. Throw in the diversity that we’ve come to love and respect and I am just here for it all.
I love this shit!!
Jokes aside, I really appreciate all the characters in these books. There’s a real sense of family, acceptance, and true cultural references. As someone with a Caribbean background everything is always on point. I salute you Ms Avril Ashton for writing real diversity and not sticking to “what will sell”. We are here, we are real, we fall in love, we are attractive, and we deserve stories.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Review Writing Songs
All The Stars by Kendrick Lamar, SZA
Sky Walker by Miguel, Travis Scott
Unforgettable by French Montana, Swae Lee
Book 2, in this spine tingling, giving you girl boner series. While it didn’t kill me dead like the first book it did have some intense sexy moments and as you already know bad boys are my aesthetic. And these boys are the right type of bad...
Dutch aka Dane aka Hunter is a hard man. He doesn’t play by the rules and will do anything necessary to achieve his goal, so along the way he’s made a lot of enemies. What he does the best, is protecting those he loves and there is nothing that he won’t do to cement their safety. What he’s willing to do to protect Varun Patel is a sky is the limit thing. Varun makes him weak, Varun makes him vulnerable but he needs him close. Years ago, they could have made a future together but reality has a way of slapping you in the face and calling you it’s bitch and Dutch is a bitch to realism. He deals in death and secrets so there is no room for love. Love is for other people, guilt and yearning was made for him.
Varun Patel wants Dutch something fierce but the man keeps pushing him away. He wants all that he is, the bad and good because Dutch is the man who is his everything. The job they do puts them in so much danger and can leave a man to turn to stone but Dutch…Dutch brings him to life. So, the fighting is done and its damn time they find happiness, he’s done running away because now the only running he’ll be doing is into Dutch’s arms.
Let me tell you something, I really hated Dutch in the previous books. He was a low down mofo without morals and ethics. Alas, there’s a rhyme to his reasons and while he isn’t always making money moves his heart was sometimes in the right place (well kinda in the right place but a little crooked to the left).
The biggest obstacle these two had were secrets. So much secrets its like they wrote the book on it. Is there anything more frustrating than tough guys hiding all their manly feelings? Just man paining all over the place. It’s both a frustration and a beautiful thing 😩
Look at this man pain…. 😅
"Can we not do this?" Patel snapped. "You threatened Stoyan, and I want to know why." "People in Hell want ice water." Dutch allowed a sneer to his lips. "They’ll have their wish granted before you get yours, I bet."
Again we have the oldies but goodies with the characters we’ve all come to love. I’m just waiting for an avenger type assemble because these dudes be crossing paths and hating on each other which really at this point it’s nothing but brotherly love. They be so hating!!
Scars and Ruin is another amazingly entertaining read from this author. What you need to remember with these books is that all this shit is not out for a realistic feeling but a good time feeling. Throw in the diversity that we’ve come to love and respect and I am just here for it all.
I love this shit!!
Jokes aside, I really appreciate all the characters in these books. There’s a real sense of family, acceptance, and true cultural references. As someone with a Caribbean background everything is always on point. I salute you Ms Avril Ashton for writing real diversity and not sticking to “what will sell”. We are here, we are real, we fall in love, we are attractive, and we deserve stories.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Review Writing Songs
All The Stars by Kendrick Lamar, SZA
Sky Walker by Miguel, Travis Scott
Unforgettable by French Montana, Swae Lee
February 5, 2017
~~~ BR with my girls, Ele and Karen -- without whom I'd never have made it through this series. ~~~
While I liked Scars and Ruin ok, I admit having a hard time connecting with Dutch. In the previous books he definitely wasn't a likable guy. More like cold, calculating and a supreme bastard. In this book, he is humanized somewhat, but I still had trouble.
Patel is equally mysterious to me. He and Dutch have a long history, that is painful for both of them. And in this book, they finally deal with all that shit and do what should have been done years ago.
And now for my disconnect. The further I get into this series, the more lost I become. There are so many references to events from other series and so many characters that I feel like I should know, but don't that I have no idea what's going on. It's more and more obvious to me that in order to really enjoy this series, you really need to read the Run This Town series, and maybe even Brooklyn Sinners. I haven't read either.
While I like what this author writes, I don't really love it. Her plot lines are always way OTT and the drama scale is at TILT. Sometimes that is exactly what I am in the mood for, so there is definitely a market there. The sex is super hot, though, so I can't say I didn't enjoy that. My overall enjoyment of this series might improve if I didn't feel so lost all the time, but I don't see me making time (right now, anyway) to read the other two series just so I can understand this one. Also, the plot of Scars and Ruin really hinged on Marx's hold on Dutch, but I didn't buy it, at all. Of course I don't buy that all these super tough murdering mother fuckers all have husbands and children they dote on, either, but that, I'll forgive easily because I want to. I'm not reading for the realism.
So, I'm gonna tap out of this series for the time being. For those that have read and enjoyed the other two mentioned series (especially Run This Town), you might like this one more than I did. I generally enjoy when an author takes a character I hate and makes me like him. I just feel too lost to continue.
---------------------------
Thank you, The BuddyRead Elf (aka Karen), for gifting me this book!
While I liked Scars and Ruin ok, I admit having a hard time connecting with Dutch. In the previous books he definitely wasn't a likable guy. More like cold, calculating and a supreme bastard. In this book, he is humanized somewhat, but I still had trouble.
Patel is equally mysterious to me. He and Dutch have a long history, that is painful for both of them. And in this book, they finally deal with all that shit and do what should have been done years ago.
And now for my disconnect. The further I get into this series, the more lost I become. There are so many references to events from other series and so many characters that I feel like I should know, but don't that I have no idea what's going on. It's more and more obvious to me that in order to really enjoy this series, you really need to read the Run This Town series, and maybe even Brooklyn Sinners. I haven't read either.
While I like what this author writes, I don't really love it. Her plot lines are always way OTT and the drama scale is at TILT. Sometimes that is exactly what I am in the mood for, so there is definitely a market there. The sex is super hot, though, so I can't say I didn't enjoy that. My overall enjoyment of this series might improve if I didn't feel so lost all the time, but I don't see me making time (right now, anyway) to read the other two series just so I can understand this one. Also, the plot of Scars and Ruin really hinged on Marx's hold on Dutch, but I didn't buy it, at all. Of course I don't buy that all these super tough murdering mother fuckers all have husbands and children they dote on, either, but that, I'll forgive easily because I want to. I'm not reading for the realism.
So, I'm gonna tap out of this series for the time being. For those that have read and enjoyed the other two mentioned series (especially Run This Town), you might like this one more than I did. I generally enjoy when an author takes a character I hate and makes me like him. I just feel too lost to continue.
---------------------------
Thank you, The BuddyRead Elf (aka Karen), for gifting me this book!
July 8, 2018
Dutch is a character that intrigued me from the moment he was introduced and I couldn't WAIT for his book. Sadly I wasn't blown away like I was by the first two books in this series because Dutch is a total and utter idiot. Seriously! He's this supposed hard nosed, takes-no-prisoners, get the job done at all costs badass yet he couldn't sort his problems out and used that ridiculous excuse to push Patel and his family away. Sorry, I didn't buy it at all.
Patel saved the book once he got his head out of his arse and fought for what he wanted, but I had already had too many eye rolls in to love it like I did the previous books.
3.5 I'm not a fan of cowards stars
Patel saved the book once he got his head out of his arse and fought for what he wanted, but I had already had too many eye rolls in to love it like I did the previous books.
3.5 I'm not a fan of cowards stars
February 25, 2018
I really liked this one - dark, depraved with a hit of vulnerability.... how the love of one man can drive and almost destroy another. Avril Ashton is brilliant with dark novels, especially the ruthless killer types and Dutch was no exception. The story focused not on his killing, but on the lengths he went to protect Patel, on keeping him away. I loved the cameo appearances and the uniqueness of each character... while all dark, a fierce loyalty remains and somehow they tend to look after each other while remaining nemesis at other times. Perhaps a healthy respect between killers ! Great book for me, loved it
October 21, 2016
3.75 to 4 Stars.
If you are looking for a redeeming story look elsewhere, This is Patel finally getting the guy.
I have serious mixed feelings towards Dutch, hence my mixed feelings towards his book.
I've read all stories set in this universe (even if I haven't added the books to my shelves because I'm a lazy ass at writing reviews) and I never liked Dutch, yes I wanted his book but because I wanted to know what was his deal, I honestly couldn't care less if he had a happy ending because I just don't think he deserves it, and that's saying something because 90% of AA's MCs are bad guys, hell I have a huge imaginary hard on for Dima! The crazy Russian gives me life and he almost raped his boyfriend with a gun so see? If I don't like Douche, sorry Dutch*, is for a reason.
Patel and Dutch had a weird past and everything Dutch ever did was to protect Patel, I think that's kind of amazing because he has this huge love towards Patel even if he can't have him BUT at the same time, do you know how many lives this guy fucked just to protect one guy? I'm sorry but I can't get past it. It would have been different if the stories were just something you were told about but no, he fucked some of the lives of previous MCs so I can't forgive him for Donovan.
Now that said, this was a great addition to the series, I complain because I'm a complainer but hot damn, these guys were made for each other. In the end the out Dutch and Patel had was kinda easy but it definitely moves other stories in this universe forward and this is definitely not the last we'll see of them, I feel it in my bones.
Avril can you please give me Call the Coroner?! I know you must get a lot of requests but seriously woman the anxiety over what the crazy mother fucking MCs are going to do is killing me. They are either going to kill each other or burn the world together and I'll love every second of it.
Btw not sure about the 4 solid stars because there were some loose ends. (Patel's baby momma and her drama)
If you are looking for a redeeming story look elsewhere, This is Patel finally getting the guy.
I have serious mixed feelings towards Dutch, hence my mixed feelings towards his book.
I've read all stories set in this universe (even if I haven't added the books to my shelves because I'm a lazy ass at writing reviews) and I never liked Dutch, yes I wanted his book but because I wanted to know what was his deal, I honestly couldn't care less if he had a happy ending because I just don't think he deserves it, and that's saying something because 90% of AA's MCs are bad guys, hell I have a huge imaginary hard on for Dima! The crazy Russian gives me life and he almost raped his boyfriend with a gun so see? If I don't like Douche, sorry Dutch*, is for a reason.
Patel and Dutch had a weird past and everything Dutch ever did was to protect Patel, I think that's kind of amazing because he has this huge love towards Patel even if he can't have him BUT at the same time, do you know how many lives this guy fucked just to protect one guy? I'm sorry but I can't get past it. It would have been different if the stories were just something you were told about but no, he fucked some of the lives of previous MCs so I can't forgive him for Donovan.
Now that said, this was a great addition to the series, I complain because I'm a complainer but hot damn, these guys were made for each other. In the end the out Dutch and Patel had was kinda easy but it definitely moves other stories in this universe forward and this is definitely not the last we'll see of them, I feel it in my bones.
Avril can you please give me Call the Coroner?! I know you must get a lot of requests but seriously woman the anxiety over what the crazy mother fucking MCs are going to do is killing me. They are either going to kill each other or burn the world together and I'll love every second of it.
Btw not sure about the 4 solid stars because there were some loose ends. (Patel's baby momma and her drama)
November 22, 2016
3 stars because I enjoy this series and liked this book, but not as much as the previous installments.
Not a standalone, imo, as a lot of the characters from the previous books appear or are mentioned.
This time, we get the story of the infamous Dutch, with his POV on his actions, and Patel, his agent, but more than that. They both share a past, they both have baggages, and they are so made for each other, one firmly denying it in the name of proctection and the other finally ready to fight for love.
The plot and the twists are good, the sex is graphic, all the characters have enough multiple facets to keep the readers on their toes.
However, as much as I felt for the other MCs in the previous books, I didn’t much empathize for Dutch and I would have like more development about Patel’s past.
Still, a good addition to this series : not to be missed until the next story.
Not a standalone, imo, as a lot of the characters from the previous books appear or are mentioned.
This time, we get the story of the infamous Dutch, with his POV on his actions, and Patel, his agent, but more than that. They both share a past, they both have baggages, and they are so made for each other, one firmly denying it in the name of proctection and the other finally ready to fight for love.
The plot and the twists are good, the sex is graphic, all the characters have enough multiple facets to keep the readers on their toes.
However, as much as I felt for the other MCs in the previous books, I didn’t much empathize for Dutch and I would have like more development about Patel’s past.
Still, a good addition to this series : not to be missed until the next story.
February 5, 2017
3.5 slightly fuzzy stars rounded down because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and I just didn't have enough to round up.
This one was definitely buddy read material...
...so, lucky me I had my girls, Jewel and Ele to rely on. You ladies are awesome. Thanks for taking this crazy adventure with me.
First I'm just going to reiterate what both Jewel & Ele have said in their review 'this book does not read well as a standalone'. I highly recommend reading both 'The Brooklyn Sinners' series and 'Run This Town' as well as the first two stories for this one. I know it sounds like a big commitment but honestly if you really want to take this trip and not feel like you made a left turn when you should have gone right, it'll be worth it.
I've been looking forward to this one because it's Hunter/Dane/Dutch/Savage/? damned if I know this guy's got more monikers than Imelda Marcos has shoes and while there was a reason for it. I can't like it was a bit of an irritant for me. So for now let's just call him Dutch and be done with it.
So this is the story where we find out the history between Dutch and Varun Patel and I've been curious about this one for a while. You see for me, Dutch is a bit of a quandary because mostly I've just wanted him to go up in flames but every once in a while I like him and I've wanted to know more to see him get a bit of happiness. Dutch's happiness is wrapped up in one person and one person only...you guessed it...Varun Patel.
These two men have danced around each other for years and now we get to find out what happens when the music stops. Their's was not a simple relationship and as intense as everything was outside of the bedroom, it was even more so when the clothes finally came off.
I really enjoy the dynamics between these men. I liked that Dutch was the badass, alpha who scared the hell out of everyone and always seemed to be two steps ahead of it all, I like that Patel was his weakness and he'd do anything to protect him even walk away from him.
While I was happy to finally get Dutch and Patel's story. I have to admit there were times when certain aspects felt like they were maybe getting over done and I would have enjoyed it if things had been tightened up a bit more.
Sadly I have to admit that the ending for this one still isn't sitting well with me. Things that we had been led to believe were so complex and un-doable suddenly happened with ease in the blink of an eye and that took away a big chunk of the stories overall credibility for me especially in regards to Dutch's character as this big badassed dude that I couldn't decide if I loved to hate him or hated to love him. I liked the larger than life persona that I'd given him and right now it's feeling a little fuzzy around the edges and not so much bigger than life...I'd like the old Dutch back...please?
One of the things that I really, really enjoy about not just this Avril Ashton series but the previous one's that I've read as well is that things like who are the good guys and who are the bad guys aren't always black and white. There's a lot of grey in here. Sometimes it's not a matter of good guys and bad guys but good guys doing bad things and bad guys doing good things and the reasons why.
I think Syren Rua said it best when he told Patel...
At the end of it all maybe this one wasn't quite what I had hoped for but I'm still all in on this series, there's Renzo and Low, their stories next and it's looking promising and there's still Kyo and Priest...sweetbabyjebus!!! I want their story. Not to mention somewhere in there we have 'Call the Coroner'...Ele, please tell me you're with me on this one...please?
This one was definitely buddy read material...
...so, lucky me I had my girls, Jewel and Ele to rely on. You ladies are awesome. Thanks for taking this crazy adventure with me.
First I'm just going to reiterate what both Jewel & Ele have said in their review 'this book does not read well as a standalone'. I highly recommend reading both 'The Brooklyn Sinners' series and 'Run This Town' as well as the first two stories for this one. I know it sounds like a big commitment but honestly if you really want to take this trip and not feel like you made a left turn when you should have gone right, it'll be worth it.
I've been looking forward to this one because it's Hunter/Dane/Dutch/Savage/? damned if I know this guy's got more monikers than Imelda Marcos has shoes and while there was a reason for it. I can't like it was a bit of an irritant for me. So for now let's just call him Dutch and be done with it.
So this is the story where we find out the history between Dutch and Varun Patel and I've been curious about this one for a while. You see for me, Dutch is a bit of a quandary because mostly I've just wanted him to go up in flames but every once in a while I like him and I've wanted to know more to see him get a bit of happiness. Dutch's happiness is wrapped up in one person and one person only...you guessed it...Varun Patel.
These two men have danced around each other for years and now we get to find out what happens when the music stops. Their's was not a simple relationship and as intense as everything was outside of the bedroom, it was even more so when the clothes finally came off.
I really enjoy the dynamics between these men. I liked that Dutch was the badass, alpha who scared the hell out of everyone and always seemed to be two steps ahead of it all, I like that Patel was his weakness and he'd do anything to protect him even walk away from him.
While I was happy to finally get Dutch and Patel's story. I have to admit there were times when certain aspects felt like they were maybe getting over done and I would have enjoyed it if things had been tightened up a bit more.
Sadly I have to admit that the ending for this one still isn't sitting well with me. Things that we had been led to believe were so complex and un-doable suddenly happened with ease in the blink of an eye and that took away a big chunk of the stories overall credibility for me especially in regards to Dutch's character as this big badassed dude that I couldn't decide if I loved to hate him or hated to love him. I liked the larger than life persona that I'd given him and right now it's feeling a little fuzzy around the edges and not so much bigger than life...I'd like the old Dutch back...please?
One of the things that I really, really enjoy about not just this Avril Ashton series but the previous one's that I've read as well is that things like who are the good guys and who are the bad guys aren't always black and white. There's a lot of grey in here. Sometimes it's not a matter of good guys and bad guys but good guys doing bad things and bad guys doing good things and the reasons why.
I think Syren Rua said it best when he told Patel...
“I told you that the actions by men like Dutch and me, that’s how we get judged.” Something flashed in Syren’s eyes. Could have been regret. “Not our intent. Never our intent.”
At the end of it all maybe this one wasn't quite what I had hoped for but I'm still all in on this series, there's Renzo and Low, their stories next and it's looking promising and there's still Kyo and Priest...sweetbabyjebus!!! I want their story. Not to mention somewhere in there we have 'Call the Coroner'...Ele, please tell me you're with me on this one...please?
February 7, 2017
This book was motherfuckin intense. I never liked Dutch so I was not sure how his love story is going to play out. But damn! it was hot!! Varun and Dutch were completely drowned in each other. The first part went a little slow as Dutch is shrouded in his secrets. His reasons behind walking away from Varun is continuously hinted at without being outright spelled out. And when the lovebirds finally give in: INSTANT EXPLOSION. The story then picks up with gusto as old enemies come out of the woodworks and Dutch had to make a choice to protect his love.
Mostly I loved Varun. He was a badass!!! The way he dealt with that SOB Marx was effin awesome.
I loved the steam. The intensity of Varun and Dutch's love for each other had me panting. That fisting scene was out of the world. It was the best kind of filthy. WOW!!! totally loved it!
Next story is about Renzo and hopefully we will get a release date soon coz I am addicted. Ms. Ashton does things to my heart. Her characters and plots are so charged and I can't effin wait to get my next dose.
Mostly I loved Varun. He was a badass!!! The way he dealt with that SOB Marx was effin awesome.
I loved the steam. The intensity of Varun and Dutch's love for each other had me panting. That fisting scene was out of the world. It was the best kind of filthy. WOW!!! totally loved it!
Next story is about Renzo and hopefully we will get a release date soon coz I am addicted. Ms. Ashton does things to my heart. Her characters and plots are so charged and I can't effin wait to get my next dose.
Read
July 22, 2018Just wasn’t working for me, maybe I’ll get back to it later 😉
October 18, 2016
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
4.25 Stars
I would lay bets that if fans of Avril’s books were all asked which story they were most looking forward to the majority would have said Dutch and Patel. Finally Scars and Ruin is here and finally we get to understand the strange and tense relationship between these two men.
Dutch has always been an enigma for me. In previous books he was painted as an overbearing and controlling douchebag but there was always just the tiniest hint that more was going on. This is a twisty story full of past secrets and deals that ultimately shows us that Dutch, whilst still being cold and merciless, has a much softer side and it’s that side of him that has seen his own desires and hopes cast aside in order to protect something much more important.
Dutch isn’t the only one with secrets or that has more going on in his life than is first clear. Patel has secrets of his own which include his marriage and family. He has a yearning for a man that runs bone deep but he also carries his heartbreak as a kind of armour against more hurt. He has no idea why Dutch treats him the way he does but when he finally sets his mind to sort the situation out nothing or no one will stop him.
This story is all about strong emotions, emotions that have been buried deeply and held severe consequences for a long time – both men are like boiling pots waiting to spill over and when they finally blow the effect on themselves and each other is epic. Fans of Avril Ashton’s writing and characters will not be left disappointed with this one and I’m sure there is far more to come in the future.
4.25 Stars
I would lay bets that if fans of Avril’s books were all asked which story they were most looking forward to the majority would have said Dutch and Patel. Finally Scars and Ruin is here and finally we get to understand the strange and tense relationship between these two men.
Dutch has always been an enigma for me. In previous books he was painted as an overbearing and controlling douchebag but there was always just the tiniest hint that more was going on. This is a twisty story full of past secrets and deals that ultimately shows us that Dutch, whilst still being cold and merciless, has a much softer side and it’s that side of him that has seen his own desires and hopes cast aside in order to protect something much more important.
Dutch isn’t the only one with secrets or that has more going on in his life than is first clear. Patel has secrets of his own which include his marriage and family. He has a yearning for a man that runs bone deep but he also carries his heartbreak as a kind of armour against more hurt. He has no idea why Dutch treats him the way he does but when he finally sets his mind to sort the situation out nothing or no one will stop him.
This story is all about strong emotions, emotions that have been buried deeply and held severe consequences for a long time – both men are like boiling pots waiting to spill over and when they finally blow the effect on themselves and each other is epic. Fans of Avril Ashton’s writing and characters will not be left disappointed with this one and I’m sure there is far more to come in the future.
June 1, 2022
I enjoyed Dutch and Varun's story so much! 😍
This can't be read as a standalone, you need to read the previous book otherwise you'll be really lost.
Dutch and Varun's story is a second chance romance. Some of you may know that I don't like second chance romance but here it was so well done! I loved almost everything about this book!
Their love was touching, beautiful, heartbreaking at the beginning, selfless, obsessed and dangerous. And it was beautiful.
My heart hurt for Dutch and everything he went through. One thing I can tell you: Avril Ashton knows how to write characters who are so deeply hurt. Their pain is so evident in every word that you're right there with them feeling it all.
What I loved is that Varun went to get his man. He didn't back up. And oh sweet Dutch, I loved all of you. Even though the first book in this series was also a second chance romance, Scars and Ruin was so different and I loved it. ❤️ There were a few things I didn't like and others I wished were shown in a greater detail but overall I enjoyed this book.
Leaving some quotes here:
"You take the worst of me, the absolute darkest parts of me," he said hoarsely. "And you claim it as yours with just the use of that name." He called himself a Savage, and Patel turned it into an endearment.
"Needing you is my reality. Wanting me is yours."
"You even look at Varun Patel and I will annihilate you."
This can't be read as a standalone, you need to read the previous book otherwise you'll be really lost.
Dutch and Varun's story is a second chance romance. Some of you may know that I don't like second chance romance but here it was so well done! I loved almost everything about this book!
Their love was touching, beautiful, heartbreaking at the beginning, selfless, obsessed and dangerous. And it was beautiful.
My heart hurt for Dutch and everything he went through. One thing I can tell you: Avril Ashton knows how to write characters who are so deeply hurt. Their pain is so evident in every word that you're right there with them feeling it all.
What I loved is that Varun went to get his man. He didn't back up. And oh sweet Dutch, I loved all of you. Even though the first book in this series was also a second chance romance, Scars and Ruin was so different and I loved it. ❤️ There were a few things I didn't like and others I wished were shown in a greater detail but overall I enjoyed this book.
Leaving some quotes here:
"You take the worst of me, the absolute darkest parts of me," he said hoarsely. "And you claim it as yours with just the use of that name." He called himself a Savage, and Patel turned it into an endearment.
"Needing you is my reality. Wanting me is yours."
"You even look at Varun Patel and I will annihilate you."
March 31, 2017
4.5 stars!
Finally, we get to find out what drives Dutch and how he turned himself into the cold blooded monster that he is. I love getting immersed into this dark and brutal world that Avril Ashton has created. The story arc has carried through three series, with recaps woven into the narrative of the newer stories without missing a beat. Technically each series is standalone, yet I can't imagine not reading the prior series or knowing the history behind each character.
Dutch and Patel's story is very complex and trying to get them back together is often violent and frequently brutal. Not just physically but emotionally too. It also comes out in the hot and heavy, rough and nasty sex scenes. And there's quite a few! The stories aren't everyone's cup of tea. For me, it's just the right levels of depravity. I like reading some darker stories and Avril Ashton knows how to deliver.
As the series title promises, many threads are being tied up and behind the scenes details are revealed. We get to see a number of characters brought in from previous books. Syren Rua has a big role and Elias and Lucky have some scenes. It won't matter too much if you started this series first but it's enjoyable if you've read them all. Renzo's story is next and I'm guessing we'll get Kyo in a book sometime. Can't wait to dive into the next one.
Finally, we get to find out what drives Dutch and how he turned himself into the cold blooded monster that he is. I love getting immersed into this dark and brutal world that Avril Ashton has created. The story arc has carried through three series, with recaps woven into the narrative of the newer stories without missing a beat. Technically each series is standalone, yet I can't imagine not reading the prior series or knowing the history behind each character.
Dutch and Patel's story is very complex and trying to get them back together is often violent and frequently brutal. Not just physically but emotionally too. It also comes out in the hot and heavy, rough and nasty sex scenes. And there's quite a few! The stories aren't everyone's cup of tea. For me, it's just the right levels of depravity. I like reading some darker stories and Avril Ashton knows how to deliver.
As the series title promises, many threads are being tied up and behind the scenes details are revealed. We get to see a number of characters brought in from previous books. Syren Rua has a big role and Elias and Lucky have some scenes. It won't matter too much if you started this series first but it's enjoyable if you've read them all. Renzo's story is next and I'm guessing we'll get Kyo in a book sometime. Can't wait to dive into the next one.
January 23, 2017
BR with my girls, Jewel and Karen.
*3.5 stars*
I read this author because despite the OTT-ness and too dramatic reactions from the MCs, her stories have a lot of heart. The characters form such a strong connection, emotionally and physically, that I can forgive a lot of things.
I'm pretty sure I would have liked this more, had it been shorter. The inner monologues got repetitive and frustrating. I also don't buy the reason why the villain of the story had such a strong hold on Dutch. It seems to me that Dutch could have gotten rid of him much sooner. And the way it finally happen, just like that, makes it even clearer.
The sex, though...these were some of the dirtiest scenes I 've ever read.
I DO NOT recommend reading this as a standalone. I don't even know if I recommend reading it without having read the author's other work. There are so many side characters from Sinners and Run This Town series that keep coming back, and the stories are so intertwined, I think you 'll be lost.
Thank you for the BR, ladies!
*3.5 stars*
I read this author because despite the OTT-ness and too dramatic reactions from the MCs, her stories have a lot of heart. The characters form such a strong connection, emotionally and physically, that I can forgive a lot of things.
I'm pretty sure I would have liked this more, had it been shorter. The inner monologues got repetitive and frustrating. I also don't buy the reason why the villain of the story had such a strong hold on Dutch. It seems to me that Dutch could have gotten rid of him much sooner. And the way it finally happen, just like that, makes it even clearer.
The sex, though...these were some of the dirtiest scenes I 've ever read.
I DO NOT recommend reading this as a standalone. I don't even know if I recommend reading it without having read the author's other work. There are so many side characters from Sinners and Run This Town series that keep coming back, and the stories are so intertwined, I think you 'll be lost.
Thank you for the BR, ladies!
March 12, 2017
Notes :
- Seriously, I think I need a mind map. I've read Brooklyn Sinners series and Run This Town series, but I still can get lost with the story. Please, do not read this as standalone.
- I don't really like Dutch. He gives me a headache.
- My goodness, this book is all about angst. Super angsty.
- I freaking loved Elias and Lucky. Finally, there's something that can make me smile with this book.
- Hey, I just remember. We never got Jack Wellington and Ashe's Story...
- Good god, I was waiting for that first kiss since forever.
- Hmmm... sexcapade. Sex, sex, sex. Okay, they did need sex that was worth of ten years.
- I'm so excited for Low and Renzo's story! And there's a hint of daddy-kink in it. XD
- Seriously, I think I need a mind map. I've read Brooklyn Sinners series and Run This Town series, but I still can get lost with the story. Please, do not read this as standalone.
- I don't really like Dutch. He gives me a headache.
- My goodness, this book is all about angst. Super angsty.
- I freaking loved Elias and Lucky. Finally, there's something that can make me smile with this book.
- Hey, I just remember. We never got Jack Wellington and Ashe's Story...
- Good god, I was waiting for that first kiss since forever.
- Hmmm... sexcapade. Sex, sex, sex. Okay, they did need sex that was worth of ten years.
- I'm so excited for Low and Renzo's story! And there's a hint of daddy-kink in it. XD
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2025
The UST finally resolved!
I'll admit I (rightfully 😂)despised Dutch, and Patel annoyed me with his self-righteousness in Syren's book(Brooklyn Sinners-A Sinner Born) as well as every other time he'd appeared in this world. So, I honestlypicked this up for series continuity (to find out what lay in the Dutch's past and sheer curiosity as to how the UST between the two men would resolve itself) and not particularly because I liked or cared if these two got together.
Also, I hoped Patel would be like a conscience for Dutch? But all Dutch was concerned about was protecting Patel and not listening / trusting his partner to take care of himself.
That came to bite him in the butt later which I was gleeful for(Dutch is still not my favourite character so any time he was brought to his knees made my petty heart so happy 😂😂). It also forced him to make some long overdue decisions which might also go a long way in making him a better person..who knows?
All in all this book was very well written and answered all the questions I had prior to beginning and it laid the foundations for so many other books nicely so I counted it as a win hence the rating.
Additionally, a lot was done to make Dutch more tolerable but at this point I'm sure I'll never like him. His connection with Patel was however undeniable so here's hoping some of Patel's dubious decency rubs off on him. I'm not holding my breath but a girl can wish huh? 😂😂
PS: Daniel Nieto was a flipping master at what he does best. Ruthless Cunning at its best.👌🏾👌🏾
I'll admit I (rightfully 😂)despised Dutch, and Patel annoyed me with his self-righteousness in Syren's book(Brooklyn Sinners-A Sinner Born) as well as every other time he'd appeared in this world. So, I honestlypicked this up for series continuity (to find out what lay in the Dutch's past and sheer curiosity as to how the UST between the two men would resolve itself) and not particularly because I liked or cared if these two got together.
Also, I hoped Patel would be like a conscience for Dutch? But all Dutch was concerned about was protecting Patel and not listening / trusting his partner to take care of himself.
That came to bite him in the butt later which I was gleeful for(Dutch is still not my favourite character so any time he was brought to his knees made my petty heart so happy 😂😂). It also forced him to make some long overdue decisions which might also go a long way in making him a better person..who knows?
All in all this book was very well written and answered all the questions I had prior to beginning and it laid the foundations for so many other books nicely so I counted it as a win hence the rating.
Additionally, a lot was done to make Dutch more tolerable but at this point I'm sure I'll never like him. His connection with Patel was however undeniable so here's hoping some of Patel's dubious decency rubs off on him. I'm not holding my breath but a girl can wish huh? 😂😂
PS: Daniel Nieto was a flipping master at what he does best. Ruthless Cunning at its best.👌🏾👌🏾
March 13, 2018
4.25 stars
I am sooo obsessed with these books. Now all the pieces are steadily coming into focus. Renzo and Low's book is next but I'm ready to read "The Coroner" because Daniel Neito is so ruthless that I can't wait to read his story. But it will have to wait, because we might have someone saying "Daddy" in book 3 and that right there is a hell of a turn on!
I am sooo obsessed with these books. Now all the pieces are steadily coming into focus. Renzo and Low's book is next but I'm ready to read "The Coroner" because Daniel Neito is so ruthless that I can't wait to read his story. But it will have to wait, because we might have someone saying "Daddy" in book 3 and that right there is a hell of a turn on!
October 19, 2016
Just gets better and better. I can't wait for the rest of the books.
May 25, 2017
Very interesting and complex storyline.
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Thank you, Santa's Secret Ninja Elf for my new prezzie! Merry Christmas, sweet elf.
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Thank you, Santa's Secret Ninja Elf for my new prezzie! Merry Christmas, sweet elf.
August 23, 2021
–𝗩𝗮𝗺𝗼𝘀 𝗮 𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿 𝗹𝗼 𝗾𝘂𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘇𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝘂𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗼𝘀 𝘀𝗼𝗯𝗿𝗲 𝗺í–, 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗿ó. – 𝗡𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗶ó𝗻 𝗺𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗮.
__________________________________________
Tenia miedo de leerlo, sabia que sufriría y tenia mucha razón. Mi corazón se rompió, que triste todo lo que sufrieron Dane & Patel :(
__________________________________________
Tenia miedo de leerlo, sabia que sufriría y tenia mucha razón. Mi corazón se rompió, que triste todo lo que sufrieron Dane & Patel :(
October 19, 2016
I don't think I'll get rid of my Ashton addiction any time soon. And that's just fine!
It's difficult for me to actually write a review of her books because they are all about the feelz. And she writes that so well I do not know how to do justice to her books. And let's not forget the steam. She does that very well too. This book was no exception ;).
Dutch and Patel had known each other for years before they finally gave into their attraction and spent one night together. The one night they were happy before Dutch threw it away everything fell apart. Of course it's never that simple and people have reasons. Reasons that are revealed little by little as we run into old friends and enemies. Dutch and Patel struggle with secrets and sacrifices, want and need, outside influences that need to be dealt with and their own fears of reaching out for happiness. The plot kept me entertained but mostly I just felt. And the last chapter implies that there will be off the chart chemistry in the next book as well.
It's difficult for me to actually write a review of her books because they are all about the feelz. And she writes that so well I do not know how to do justice to her books. And let's not forget the steam. She does that very well too. This book was no exception ;).
Dutch and Patel had known each other for years before they finally gave into their attraction and spent one night together. The one night they were happy before Dutch threw it away everything fell apart. Of course it's never that simple and people have reasons. Reasons that are revealed little by little as we run into old friends and enemies. Dutch and Patel struggle with secrets and sacrifices, want and need, outside influences that need to be dealt with and their own fears of reaching out for happiness. The plot kept me entertained but mostly I just felt. And the last chapter implies that there will be off the chart chemistry in the next book as well.
June 5, 2017
Didn't love this as much as I expected to. I feel like Dutch is almost neutered, he loses his badassness almost. He becomes a weak weeping mess. He spends most of the book apologizing and begging and it's tedious. Not to mention, Syran and Daniel Nieto kind of take over and he just does nothing. For someone who was so in control in the previous books, he loses it all. I just don't see how he can come back and be intimidating. Patel is a giant hypocrite. He is so jealous of Ryo he can't stand being around him, but he lets Soya crawl all over him and touch him in front of Dutch, when that relationship was more than Ryo/Dutch ever was.
January 24, 2017
This series just keeps getting better and better.
This book is about Dutch and Patel. Both are in previous books with Dutch being the guy in charge.
You get to see an insight into him and how he is how he is.
Dutch and Patel love each other but after a failed night in a hotel when Dutch walked away they keep their distance, this book is about somebody finally banging their heads together and have them come to sense.
Its angsty but a great read.
This book is about Dutch and Patel. Both are in previous books with Dutch being the guy in charge.
You get to see an insight into him and how he is how he is.
Dutch and Patel love each other but after a failed night in a hotel when Dutch walked away they keep their distance, this book is about somebody finally banging their heads together and have them come to sense.
Its angsty but a great read.
October 12, 2016
erremerrrgheerrrrddd .... fan girling right now ... Dutch + Patel... yeahhhh come to mumma .... i feel like i'm biased because i've loved every book that i've read from avril and that's a lot of them ... they always hit me in the feels and i'm always kinda heartbroken when they end ... i loved the story i loved the conflict i loved dutch and his twisted puzzle ... cannot wait for renzo's book
March 26, 2017
Another great addition to the dark, super hot, addictive world Ms. Ashton created. Looking forward to the next story.
January 20, 2021
I had a little trouble getting into this one, especially for the first...significant part. But I persevered, and was rewarded by Daniel Nieto showing up which 1000% got me hooked in. I play favorites go away
Dutch was always an interesting character, and I liked getting his story finally, even if it was on the dumbass side of turboangst. Lots of secrets, but that makes sense. I liked how their inability to share said secrets resulted in such a chain of consequences and let them get played off each other. Dutch was always so in control in the other books, it was actually pretty satisfying to see him get worked over like he did. Patel was pretty wholesome as far as these characters ever go, a nice combo with Dutch.
But for real - all of these books really overlap each other, and so having read Call the Coroner before any of the others (it went fine and I loved it) it is fascinating to see all that comes before it. Especially since this book very clearly overlaps the events in Staniel #1. Can't wait to go back and reread it!! I wish the Brooklyn Sinners set was on Kindle so I could get all of that backstory too, especially Syren since he's so big in this book...(okay this doesn't have anything to do with this book actually, but too bad)
Dutch was always an interesting character, and I liked getting his story finally, even if it was on the dumbass side of turboangst. Lots of secrets, but that makes sense. I liked how their inability to share said secrets resulted in such a chain of consequences and let them get played off each other. Dutch was always so in control in the other books, it was actually pretty satisfying to see him get worked over like he did. Patel was pretty wholesome as far as these characters ever go, a nice combo with Dutch.
But for real - all of these books really overlap each other, and so having read Call the Coroner before any of the others (it went fine and I loved it) it is fascinating to see all that comes before it. Especially since this book very clearly overlaps the events in Staniel #1. Can't wait to go back and reread it!! I wish the Brooklyn Sinners set was on Kindle so I could get all of that backstory too, especially Syren since he's so big in this book...(okay this doesn't have anything to do with this book actually, but too bad)
February 15, 2025
I'm so sad I didn't enjoy this as much as the first book. I hated Dutch so much in the first one and I was interested to see how a man like him loved. This man is one of those "I will burn the world down to keep you safe". It is a little frustrating how he easily did what he did but didn't try to get out of the arrangement. And the fact that he let it go on for 4 years without Patel knowing. Sadly, the whole "I need to save you but I wont tell you what I did" was a little exhausting. Dutch just accepted that they will never be together for what? It wasn't very clear as to why he needed to keep him safe in the first place.
May 12, 2022
Dutch & Patel's story. This was soooo good. Up until this book I didn't think I could like Dutch, he's been a total j*rk in pervious books, but boy, does Avril Ashton make you feel for him! The things he did for Patel were a punch to the gut. As all books in the series, this one had a perfect mix of high-octane action, romance and steam. And the ending teases the next book... with of course I have to read immediately. I'm so addicted to these books, it's not even funny.
January 14, 2023
Something was missing, I did enjoy their time together but I guess I was expecting more given how big of a character Dutch was. There were so many characters, many from previous books, I don't recommend reading this as a standalone at all. Also, a smallish thing, but I don't enjoy the family dynamics here, as in the character's parents and Patel's other relationship, personal preference.
Love seeing Daniel and Syren.
Love seeing Daniel and Syren.
March 25, 2017
Finally get to Dutch's story, it was amazing to see inside of this man. This series makes me want to start all over and read again, thank you Avril Ashton.
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