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The Monroe Family #2
Unbridled
Luke
I'm living the dream. I'm the starting wide receiver for a Big 12 college football team. I have a full ride scholarship. On paper, I have it made.
Just one problem with that, though, it's someone else's dream.
Now I’m bridled with rules and curfews stuck in a classroom when I would rather be back home, working at my brother’s custom car and motorcycle shop.
To top it all off, she's back in my life. The one girl that turns me into a total dumbass.
And she wants nothing to do with me.
Hannah
I'm finally in college. I'm exactly where I want to be. Free of my religious father. Well, for the most part. I'm living my life the right way, and if I fall out of line, I always have my dear friend Rachel right there to correct me.
But then everything changes when I see him again. The man that makes me brave and cowardly all at once.
I know deep down I need to keep him away, but he’s just not taking the hint. He sees it as a challenge.
And I know Lucas Monroe never backs down from a challenge.
*Unbridled is a New Adult Romance novel that contains mature content and is not suitable for anyone under 18.
***Although, Unbridled is technically a part of the Monroe Series, Luke and Hannah's story can easily stand alone. ;)
I'm living the dream. I'm the starting wide receiver for a Big 12 college football team. I have a full ride scholarship. On paper, I have it made.
Just one problem with that, though, it's someone else's dream.
Now I’m bridled with rules and curfews stuck in a classroom when I would rather be back home, working at my brother’s custom car and motorcycle shop.
To top it all off, she's back in my life. The one girl that turns me into a total dumbass.
And she wants nothing to do with me.
Hannah
I'm finally in college. I'm exactly where I want to be. Free of my religious father. Well, for the most part. I'm living my life the right way, and if I fall out of line, I always have my dear friend Rachel right there to correct me.
But then everything changes when I see him again. The man that makes me brave and cowardly all at once.
I know deep down I need to keep him away, but he’s just not taking the hint. He sees it as a challenge.
And I know Lucas Monroe never backs down from a challenge.
*Unbridled is a New Adult Romance novel that contains mature content and is not suitable for anyone under 18.
***Although, Unbridled is technically a part of the Monroe Series, Luke and Hannah's story can easily stand alone. ;)
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2016
25 people are currently reading
268 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Dykes
95 books2,538 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 84 reviews
June 15, 2016
4.5 'Free to Love' Stars!
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
It was only months ago when I read my first book by the lovely Nicole Dykes. It was Unsocial and with it came one of the things that I enjoy most on books: big happy families (and, I hope, lots of love stories!). I knew after finishing it that I wanted to know more about the Monroes and Nicole did not disappoint with her new addition to this series!
Unbridled is the second book in the Monroe series but it can also be read as a stand-alone (even though I highly recommend reading Unsocial first). This time we are presented with the love story between Lucas 'Luke' Monroe (a sexy college student, obsessed with motorcycles, who is there to live his father's dream but everything changes with the appearance of..) Hannah Martin (also a college student, with a very religious family, who was the best friend that Luke lost three years ago when the heroine disappeared without explanation).
Luke reminds me of a time in my life that was so fun and easy. A time where I was free to be me.
I have to say, this was, for me, even better than Dylan's story! I felt more connected with Luke and Hannah and I love how their friendship/relationship developed. Actually, these two were friends long before meeting again in college and there was definitely lots of mixed feelings between them. Luke wants Hannah back and Hannah is afraid because of what happened in the past (a sad event that we don't know about at the beginning) and also because she has a family and a best friend who are always in the way.
I see so much of the boy who used to be my best friend, but I also feel sometimes I'm getting to know a stranger who is a very interesting and, dear Lord, sexy as sin, man.
And I'm loving every moment of it.
Thank God for Luke and his stubbornness to have Hannah's friendship back! Everything changes when they become friends again, especially when they start feeling a strong attraction towards each other. It was always there but now they actually have regular sex lol They do not label it, even though it's clear that they are dating. They are so sweet and so hot together! I am definitely not complaining on the sex department ;)
"Tell me how hard you want to come, and I'll make it happen."
"I don't care. Just do it. Please," she pleads.
"I will, with my mouth. When I'm finished eating your tight little cunt, you won't ever remember you dated pencil dick. But you'll sure as fuck remember coming all over my tongue."
Moreover, I am happy to add that I haven't had a problem with the rating this time. With Unsocial, I had several aspects that I thought could be improved and I have to say, they obviously have in Unbridled! For a start, this book a lot shorter, which I really appreciate! Secondly, and because of that same aspect, the writing has improved. No more repetitions, no more too-long paragraphs, no more punctuation mistakes. And finally, it felt so good to have great (and new) secondary characters that actually supported the couple!
He's so deeply embedded in my soul, how am I supposed to move on?
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this novel! There were some aspects at the beginning that got to me but besides that, I loved Unbridled! The plot, the characters, the love story and everything in between. I especially enjoyed having scenes with the whole family and keeping up with all the Monroes! I cannot wait for the next book (Nicole actually teased us a little bit about that at the end of this book, YAAAY! ;) Do not miss it!!)
"I think you get one truly epic love story in your life" [...] "You're mine. You are my epic love story."
Therefore, my rating for Unbridled is 4.5 STARS because it was a great love story, with a little bit of angst and lots of sweet and sexy moments! Luke and Hannah have great chemistry, obviously! And I am sure Nicole has more surprises about all these great characters that she introduced. I cannot wait! Yes, I recommend not missing the Monroe series :)
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
It was only months ago when I read my first book by the lovely Nicole Dykes. It was Unsocial and with it came one of the things that I enjoy most on books: big happy families (and, I hope, lots of love stories!). I knew after finishing it that I wanted to know more about the Monroes and Nicole did not disappoint with her new addition to this series!
Unbridled is the second book in the Monroe series but it can also be read as a stand-alone (even though I highly recommend reading Unsocial first). This time we are presented with the love story between Lucas 'Luke' Monroe (a sexy college student, obsessed with motorcycles, who is there to live his father's dream but everything changes with the appearance of..) Hannah Martin (also a college student, with a very religious family, who was the best friend that Luke lost three years ago when the heroine disappeared without explanation).
Luke reminds me of a time in my life that was so fun and easy. A time where I was free to be me.
I have to say, this was, for me, even better than Dylan's story! I felt more connected with Luke and Hannah and I love how their friendship/relationship developed. Actually, these two were friends long before meeting again in college and there was definitely lots of mixed feelings between them. Luke wants Hannah back and Hannah is afraid because of what happened in the past (a sad event that we don't know about at the beginning) and also because she has a family and a best friend who are always in the way.
I see so much of the boy who used to be my best friend, but I also feel sometimes I'm getting to know a stranger who is a very interesting and, dear Lord, sexy as sin, man.
And I'm loving every moment of it.
Thank God for Luke and his stubbornness to have Hannah's friendship back! Everything changes when they become friends again, especially when they start feeling a strong attraction towards each other. It was always there but now they actually have regular sex lol They do not label it, even though it's clear that they are dating. They are so sweet and so hot together! I am definitely not complaining on the sex department ;)
"Tell me how hard you want to come, and I'll make it happen."
"I don't care. Just do it. Please," she pleads.
"I will, with my mouth. When I'm finished eating your tight little cunt, you won't ever remember you dated pencil dick. But you'll sure as fuck remember coming all over my tongue."
Moreover, I am happy to add that I haven't had a problem with the rating this time. With Unsocial, I had several aspects that I thought could be improved and I have to say, they obviously have in Unbridled! For a start, this book a lot shorter, which I really appreciate! Secondly, and because of that same aspect, the writing has improved. No more repetitions, no more too-long paragraphs, no more punctuation mistakes. And finally, it felt so good to have great (and new) secondary characters that actually supported the couple!
He's so deeply embedded in my soul, how am I supposed to move on?
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this novel! There were some aspects at the beginning that got to me but besides that, I loved Unbridled! The plot, the characters, the love story and everything in between. I especially enjoyed having scenes with the whole family and keeping up with all the Monroes! I cannot wait for the next book (Nicole actually teased us a little bit about that at the end of this book, YAAAY! ;) Do not miss it!!)
"I think you get one truly epic love story in your life" [...] "You're mine. You are my epic love story."
Therefore, my rating for Unbridled is 4.5 STARS because it was a great love story, with a little bit of angst and lots of sweet and sexy moments! Luke and Hannah have great chemistry, obviously! And I am sure Nicole has more surprises about all these great characters that she introduced. I cannot wait! Yes, I recommend not missing the Monroe series :)
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
July 13, 2016
4 unbridled stars !
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this second installment in the Monroe Series which told the story of Lucas (Luke) Monroe (Dylan's younger brother from Unsocial) and Hannah Martin.
Luke and Hannah are both eighteen and college students at Kansas State University. They have been best friends from kindergarden until Hannah moved away with her family at the age of 13. At first, they wrote each other every week, then after the Martins visited three years ago, Luke never heard from her again. Hannah didn’t keep in touch and she did downright ignore Luke after the last time they saw each other. She just cut him completely out of her life with no explanations.
Then one day, Luke ran into her in class. He wants to catch up and reconnect with his best friend, the one he never forgot. But unlike him, Hannah is not thrilled to see Luke again. She wants nothing to do with him and she’s not interested in getting reacquainted. Luke doesn’t recognize the girl he used to know. She has changed in ways he cannot put his finger on. He doesn’t understand and he’s confused, contemplating what he could have possibly done to her to elicit such a negative reaction.
Luke is now all man. A handsome sexy football player and Hannah needs to distance herself from him even more. For Hannah they are now different people, with different goals and interests. After beeing taken away from her hometown and losing her best friend when she was 13 years old, Hannah rebelled hard for two years and then, something happened that changed her life, leading her to keep her life on the right track.
Hannah’s father is a church minister, a controlling prick who doesn’t see any real value in women. According to him, a woman’s role in life should be serving the Lord and her husband. When she applied to K-State behind his back and was given a full-ride academic scholarship, her father couldn’t really say no and reluctantly let her go.
Hannah’s situation is complicated. She could tell Luke’s desapointed in the person she has become and that he’s angry with her. She knows that she should stay away from him, but the problem is, she hates hurting him, even if it’s for her own good.
When they start spending time together, the connection between them grows. Hannah is struggling to regain her sense of self and Luke is determined to get his best friend back. As the story unfolds, the passion ignites, the secrets are shared, and their deep connection is impossible to ignore. But there are obstacles these two must cross that makes for real good page turner.
This book has a great story line, romance, steamy sex scenes, well portrayed characters and strong family bonds. The only thing that bothered me, and the only reason it's not a 5 star read is that I got a bit annoyed with some of Hannah and Luke’s actions that had me banging my head at times.
All in all, I liked Luke and Hannah’ story alot ; it truly felt full and complete. I enjoyed Luke’s fierce determination in helping Hannah overcome her fears and move onwards, and how good he made her feel about herself, just the way she was. It was nice to see what started out as friendship come full circle and blossom into a true, lifelong love.
It was great to catch up with Brooke, Dylan and the whole gang from the previous books. The Monroe family is definitely something else and truly incredible people. Please keep going Nicole… Looking forward to more of your work !
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this second installment in the Monroe Series which told the story of Lucas (Luke) Monroe (Dylan's younger brother from Unsocial) and Hannah Martin.
Luke and Hannah are both eighteen and college students at Kansas State University. They have been best friends from kindergarden until Hannah moved away with her family at the age of 13. At first, they wrote each other every week, then after the Martins visited three years ago, Luke never heard from her again. Hannah didn’t keep in touch and she did downright ignore Luke after the last time they saw each other. She just cut him completely out of her life with no explanations.
Then one day, Luke ran into her in class. He wants to catch up and reconnect with his best friend, the one he never forgot. But unlike him, Hannah is not thrilled to see Luke again. She wants nothing to do with him and she’s not interested in getting reacquainted. Luke doesn’t recognize the girl he used to know. She has changed in ways he cannot put his finger on. He doesn’t understand and he’s confused, contemplating what he could have possibly done to her to elicit such a negative reaction.
Luke is now all man. A handsome sexy football player and Hannah needs to distance herself from him even more. For Hannah they are now different people, with different goals and interests. After beeing taken away from her hometown and losing her best friend when she was 13 years old, Hannah rebelled hard for two years and then, something happened that changed her life, leading her to keep her life on the right track.
Hannah’s father is a church minister, a controlling prick who doesn’t see any real value in women. According to him, a woman’s role in life should be serving the Lord and her husband. When she applied to K-State behind his back and was given a full-ride academic scholarship, her father couldn’t really say no and reluctantly let her go.
Hannah’s situation is complicated. She could tell Luke’s desapointed in the person she has become and that he’s angry with her. She knows that she should stay away from him, but the problem is, she hates hurting him, even if it’s for her own good.
When they start spending time together, the connection between them grows. Hannah is struggling to regain her sense of self and Luke is determined to get his best friend back. As the story unfolds, the passion ignites, the secrets are shared, and their deep connection is impossible to ignore. But there are obstacles these two must cross that makes for real good page turner.
This book has a great story line, romance, steamy sex scenes, well portrayed characters and strong family bonds. The only thing that bothered me, and the only reason it's not a 5 star read is that I got a bit annoyed with some of Hannah and Luke’s actions that had me banging my head at times.
All in all, I liked Luke and Hannah’ story alot ; it truly felt full and complete. I enjoyed Luke’s fierce determination in helping Hannah overcome her fears and move onwards, and how good he made her feel about herself, just the way she was. It was nice to see what started out as friendship come full circle and blossom into a true, lifelong love.
It was great to catch up with Brooke, Dylan and the whole gang from the previous books. The Monroe family is definitely something else and truly incredible people. Please keep going Nicole… Looking forward to more of your work !
June 22, 2016
"Because...he's trouble all wrapped up in one hell of a body."
Unbridled is the second book in the Monroe Family Series. Although each book can be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading Unsocial, the first book in the series, as the family dynamics are established in the first book and will continue to grow through each book of the series.
"The Monroes are truly incredible people. They should be studied. They just adopt strays like crazy and make them part of their family."Luke Monroe is all grown up. He has left the safe haven of his family to fulfill his legacy as a successful college football player. With his full athletic scholarship, Luke's life should be perfect. And yet, he longs for his family and his custom bike shop that he left back home. He would give anything to trade in the parties, practices, and football if he could just go home. When wandering the campus one day, he sees her. Hannah. His old best friend that moved away.
"I just didn't want my hell to touch you."Hannah has been living under the scrutiny of her religious father and family her entire life. After years of doing everything "right" and "holy", she has convinced her father that she can be successful living independently on a college campus pursuing a degree. Under the scrutiny of her religious roomie, Hannah has been flying under the radar just fine. Until Luke walks back into her life.
"He's so deeply embedded in my soul, how am I supposed to move on?"
"I just didn't want my hell to touch you."Although many years have passed, Hannah and Luke still share "that thing" between them. They are drawn to one another. Luke is desperate to find out why Hannah is afraid to let him in. Hannah is terrified that if she allows Luke back into her life, her father will whisk her away. She also fears that when Luke discovers the demons from her past, he will hate her forever. However, through the support of the Monroe family and Luke's friends, Hannah and Luke manage to find a way together.
"I resist the quick descent she's wanting, choosing to take my time and explore her body along the way."
"I'm hers and she's mine."Told in dual POV, Unbridled is a tender NA Romance full of smoking hot passion and strong family bonds. Luke is quite the bad boy, and Hannah is a perfect match to tame his bad boy ways. The Monroe family is full of love, and the diversity of the characters continue to keep me engaged in every moment that they experience. I was so happy to see more of Dylan and Brooke and the entire crew. No doubt, this family will continue to cause trouble, break hearts, and always lean on each other to find their way!
I highly recommend Unbridled to NA Contemporary Romance Fans. You will fall in love with this "second chance/friends-to-lovers" romance the second you pick it up! I look forward to more greatness from this author!
***Monroe Family Series***
*BETA copy kindly provided via the author in exchange for an honest review!*
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
July 18, 2016
I actually thought this would be nothing but another teens in love story, but how wrong I actually was.
This family The Monroes have become in one of the few stories that stays in my heart as if they were really the long time friends I haven’t see in years… and if the first one made me fall in love of them, then I can easily tell you that this one, (even if the main characters were actually Young adults or teens, I really can not tell well the differenece nowadays) these characters and every single member of the family have a lil important advice to give us about life, always sprinkled with a lil heat from time to time =D (YA remember?!!! XD)
So u wanna know what this story was about?
here we go
So they actually go like
So in order for these 2 to get along and realize of their real feelings a few things will have to happen. And here it’s where crazy Monroe family will get in! XD
And yeah we get to see a glimpse of how good life is treating Brooke & Dylan I won’t say much ‘cause I’m not really into spoilers but let’s just say that it will make u scream of happiness XD.
So at the end a freaking lovely story, to read it whenever u feel down or at any moment actually.
--------------------------------------------------------
At least I didn't cry with this one!!
I think I read almost all the book with a huge smile plastered on my face, just with the feeling that you're catching up with all your family members, besides even if the book's characters are teens or Young Adults...they really show us some stuffs that no one should ever forget like making real the dreams of someone else and not living your own!
I really LIKED this book it has some real life lessons to read about as well.
**FULL REV IN A FEW HOURS =d**
This family The Monroes have become in one of the few stories that stays in my heart as if they were really the long time friends I haven’t see in years… and if the first one made me fall in love of them, then I can easily tell you that this one, (even if the main characters were actually Young adults or teens, I really can not tell well the differenece nowadays) these characters and every single member of the family have a lil important advice to give us about life, always sprinkled with a lil heat from time to time =D (YA remember?!!! XD)
So u wanna know what this story was about?
here we go
So they actually go like
So in order for these 2 to get along and realize of their real feelings a few things will have to happen. And here it’s where crazy Monroe family will get in! XD
And yeah we get to see a glimpse of how good life is treating Brooke & Dylan I won’t say much ‘cause I’m not really into spoilers but let’s just say that it will make u scream of happiness XD.
So at the end a freaking lovely story, to read it whenever u feel down or at any moment actually.
--------------------------------------------------------
At least I didn't cry with this one!!
I think I read almost all the book with a huge smile plastered on my face, just with the feeling that you're catching up with all your family members, besides even if the book's characters are teens or Young Adults...they really show us some stuffs that no one should ever forget like making real the dreams of someone else and not living your own!
I really LIKED this book it has some real life lessons to read about as well.
**FULL REV IN A FEW HOURS =d**
June 13, 2016
I was kindly given an ARC of this book by the author (cue beaming from ear to ear) . This is my honest opinion.
'Unbridled' is the second book I have read by Nicole Dykes and I'm really , really hoping there is much more to come from the Monroe family and their friends. The first book 'Unsocial' was so good. It introduced us to awesome characters including Luke (Lucas) Monroe, who is Dylan's younger brother. In that book, Luke was a petulant, angry, grieving boy but you could see glimpses of the man he would be. In this book we see Luke at College ~ away from his close knit family and his other passion which is designing and performing artwork on race bikes. Now Luke is making his mark as a College Football God...wanted by women, envied by men. Then he stumbles across Hannah. She was his best friend from 5-13 but then she up and moved away with her (awful) family. A brief visit happened when they were 15 but then it was radio silence from Hannah. Luke has no clue why and it was another loss in his rapidly chaotic life. But reunions awaken old feelings. Can they still be friends? Or more? Or nothing?
I really liked Luke's character. For all his playing the field attributes, this is one sweet, loyal, solid guy who without realising it , wears his heart on his sleeve. When this boy loves, he loves hard. Yet, he often has no filter and can be painfully honest.
Hannah is more of a conundrum. At times I wanted to shake her because she is so busy being someone she isn't that she is slowly losing herself. I loved the glimpses of the real Hannah. And I loved how she slowly reclaimed her life. She isn't a fall at the hero's feet type of gal! I thought her backstory was incredibly sad and I really felt for her.
Great to see the Monroe's and the other secondary characters too. I am itching to see if Cassie gets a story. Hint. Hint. =0)
This book feels much younger than Dylan & Brooke's story, but still recommend over 18's only due to sexual content and swearing. It makes sense though as Luke & Hannah are both at College and are 18/19 whereas Dylan and Brooke were mid/late twenties. There is angst but it's not OTT. Unsocial is my favourite , purely because the lead characters are older but I would urge you to read this even if College Settings aren't normally your thing. Great characters, romance, hot stuff , brilliant sibling banter. And (hopefully) so much more to come.
Many thanks to Nicole for the ARC. Really enjoyed reading it!
'Unbridled' is the second book I have read by Nicole Dykes and I'm really , really hoping there is much more to come from the Monroe family and their friends. The first book 'Unsocial' was so good. It introduced us to awesome characters including Luke (Lucas) Monroe, who is Dylan's younger brother. In that book, Luke was a petulant, angry, grieving boy but you could see glimpses of the man he would be. In this book we see Luke at College ~ away from his close knit family and his other passion which is designing and performing artwork on race bikes. Now Luke is making his mark as a College Football God...wanted by women, envied by men. Then he stumbles across Hannah. She was his best friend from 5-13 but then she up and moved away with her (awful) family. A brief visit happened when they were 15 but then it was radio silence from Hannah. Luke has no clue why and it was another loss in his rapidly chaotic life. But reunions awaken old feelings. Can they still be friends? Or more? Or nothing?
I really liked Luke's character. For all his playing the field attributes, this is one sweet, loyal, solid guy who without realising it , wears his heart on his sleeve. When this boy loves, he loves hard. Yet, he often has no filter and can be painfully honest.
Hannah is more of a conundrum. At times I wanted to shake her because she is so busy being someone she isn't that she is slowly losing herself. I loved the glimpses of the real Hannah. And I loved how she slowly reclaimed her life. She isn't a fall at the hero's feet type of gal! I thought her backstory was incredibly sad and I really felt for her.
Great to see the Monroe's and the other secondary characters too. I am itching to see if Cassie gets a story. Hint. Hint. =0)
This book feels much younger than Dylan & Brooke's story, but still recommend over 18's only due to sexual content and swearing. It makes sense though as Luke & Hannah are both at College and are 18/19 whereas Dylan and Brooke were mid/late twenties. There is angst but it's not OTT. Unsocial is my favourite , purely because the lead characters are older but I would urge you to read this even if College Settings aren't normally your thing. Great characters, romance, hot stuff , brilliant sibling banter. And (hopefully) so much more to come.
Many thanks to Nicole for the ARC. Really enjoyed reading it!
June 13, 2016
Unbridled is technically the 2nd book in the Monroe Series, although it can easily be read as a standalone. It follows Luke, who is Dylan's younger brother from Unsocial. Don't worry though, Luke is all grown up in this one ;)
Unsocial will be available on June 14th!
Unsocial will be available on June 14th!
July 29, 2016
3 Crowns
Unbridled is a second-chance romance that follows the story of Luke Monroe, star football player, and Hannah, reformed preacher’s daughter.
There is a lot about this story that I liked. Luke isn’t your typical star athlete on campus, yet he is.
He has the cocky, arrogant, sleep with whoever aspect of the sport hero down, but he doesn’t really want to play football. This was an interesting twist for the reader, something unique. Similar to Luke, Hannah is also attending college with him, but she is not living the life that she wants. The restrictions placed on her by her father and the spies he keeps around to keep her in line prevent her from living her life. So while this story is a romance where the hero and heroine reconnect, it is also one with the theme of living a life that makes a person happy. The author really hits home that a person can’t live for other people, but that he/she should be following his/her passions and joys in life.
The romance between the two characters was good. Their relationship is believable, but it doesn’t leap off of the page at me. I like them as a couple, though, because they make each other better. The secret that is revealed at about ¾ of the way through the story and Luke’s reaction left me with mixed emotions. It is the reason communication stopped between them, and the reason she allows her father to control her life, which is believable and helps to develop her characterization. I understood Luke’s reaction and his need for time when he finds out, but his ultimate decision didn’t make sense to me. The reader goes back to this state of limbo between the couple, and we just spent a good amount of time there at the beginning of the book. The resolution of the story is fantastic. I really enjoyed how she wrapped up all their story and the HEA she gives them.
Overall, this story was good. The author has an engaging story here, there are just some aspects of it that did not speak to me as a reader. I would still, however, pick up another book by her, as the Monroe family and additional members, Shriller, Jax, and Alex, are interesting too.
Unbridled is a second-chance romance that follows the story of Luke Monroe, star football player, and Hannah, reformed preacher’s daughter.
There is a lot about this story that I liked. Luke isn’t your typical star athlete on campus, yet he is.
He has the cocky, arrogant, sleep with whoever aspect of the sport hero down, but he doesn’t really want to play football. This was an interesting twist for the reader, something unique. Similar to Luke, Hannah is also attending college with him, but she is not living the life that she wants. The restrictions placed on her by her father and the spies he keeps around to keep her in line prevent her from living her life. So while this story is a romance where the hero and heroine reconnect, it is also one with the theme of living a life that makes a person happy. The author really hits home that a person can’t live for other people, but that he/she should be following his/her passions and joys in life.
The romance between the two characters was good. Their relationship is believable, but it doesn’t leap off of the page at me. I like them as a couple, though, because they make each other better. The secret that is revealed at about ¾ of the way through the story and Luke’s reaction left me with mixed emotions. It is the reason communication stopped between them, and the reason she allows her father to control her life, which is believable and helps to develop her characterization. I understood Luke’s reaction and his need for time when he finds out, but his ultimate decision didn’t make sense to me. The reader goes back to this state of limbo between the couple, and we just spent a good amount of time there at the beginning of the book. The resolution of the story is fantastic. I really enjoyed how she wrapped up all their story and the HEA she gives them.
Overall, this story was good. The author has an engaging story here, there are just some aspects of it that did not speak to me as a reader. I would still, however, pick up another book by her, as the Monroe family and additional members, Shriller, Jax, and Alex, are interesting too.
June 10, 2016
WHAT THE SHIT!!!!! Just one of many reactions I had from this book
I received an ARC of this book and let me tell you I absolutely loved this book. This is book two in the Monroe series and while it is not necessary to read the first book, Unsocial, I also recommend reading that as well. This book is the story of Lucas Monroe (aka Luke) and his best friend Hannah. They had been best friends since they were five years old. Hannah moves away and shortly after just stops all contact with Luke. They run into each other at college years later.
Luke wants to know what happened and you get caught up in the story of watching Lucas and Hannah interact. Hannah is not the person he knew as his best friend she is different. He has so many questions and want to know why she stopped talking to him. There is also a chemistry there that is undeniable, you can't help but want them to figure their shit out and get together already.
Then Nicole Dykes drops a motherfucking bomb that I didn't see coming, it literally had me shouting out loud "Oh my fucking god" I got feels from this book, I wanted to throw the book at some of the characters lol. Young love .... Misunderstandings.... Tender Moments.... Angst.... This book had it all. I fucking loved this book, I can't wait for the next books in the Monroe Series.
I received an ARC of this book and let me tell you I absolutely loved this book. This is book two in the Monroe series and while it is not necessary to read the first book, Unsocial, I also recommend reading that as well. This book is the story of Lucas Monroe (aka Luke) and his best friend Hannah. They had been best friends since they were five years old. Hannah moves away and shortly after just stops all contact with Luke. They run into each other at college years later.
Luke wants to know what happened and you get caught up in the story of watching Lucas and Hannah interact. Hannah is not the person he knew as his best friend she is different. He has so many questions and want to know why she stopped talking to him. There is also a chemistry there that is undeniable, you can't help but want them to figure their shit out and get together already.
Then Nicole Dykes drops a motherfucking bomb that I didn't see coming, it literally had me shouting out loud "Oh my fucking god" I got feels from this book, I wanted to throw the book at some of the characters lol. Young love .... Misunderstandings.... Tender Moments.... Angst.... This book had it all. I fucking loved this book, I can't wait for the next books in the Monroe Series.
June 14, 2016
5 Super Sweet Stars
I graciously received an ARC on this beauty and was I so happy to have had the honor to read it early! I have been following this series, so needless to say, I had been dying for Luke's story.
As usual, Author Nicole Dykes can write a story from start to finish evoking so many emotions throughout her stories. I loved the storyline and I especially LOVED getting more of Luke's family.
Congrats Author Nicole Dykes on another Grand Slam!!!!!! Please keep your books/stories coming in the future because I will be anxiously awaiting each and every one of them:)
I graciously received an ARC on this beauty and was I so happy to have had the honor to read it early! I have been following this series, so needless to say, I had been dying for Luke's story.
As usual, Author Nicole Dykes can write a story from start to finish evoking so many emotions throughout her stories. I loved the storyline and I especially LOVED getting more of Luke's family.
Congrats Author Nicole Dykes on another Grand Slam!!!!!! Please keep your books/stories coming in the future because I will be anxiously awaiting each and every one of them:)
Read
April 7, 2017***COPY provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***
Looking forward to meeting Luke and...well, mostly Luke
(sue me for being singular in my tastes )
June 15, 2016
I was excited t read this book after reading Unsocial. This book was everything I hoped it would be. Luke is in college and finds his childhood friend, Hannah. This book was a great read following the rebirth of a friendship, Luke and Hannah's rediscovery of one's self and the acknowledgement of their love. This book has everything and more that you could want.
September 17, 2023
With a bit of second chance romance and a bit of forbidden romance Nicole Dykes captivates readers with the younger Monroe brother but don't worry Luke is all grown up now and desperately wanting to hold on to the girl he already lost once before.
Hannah doesn't want to let Luke in but with his charm and stubbornness it is hard to resist the boy who captivated her all those years ago. Life isn't always that easy though and if she lets Luke into her heart and her father finds out she could be taken away from him again. This way, she might not have him, but she can at least see him and that will have to be enough.
"I just didn't want my hell to touch you."
Luke wasn't naive and he wasn't going to let Hannah go without a fight. You could tell from the beginning that their connection was inevitable, but he just had to find out a way to get around her walls without scaring her away completely.
At this point, I will read anything Nicole Dykes writes but I haven't read but one of her MF romances and I am happy that I am going back into her catalog and discovering more of her work. I haven't read book one in The Monroe Family Series yet, but I plan to after reading Unbridled.
Hannah doesn't want to let Luke in but with his charm and stubbornness it is hard to resist the boy who captivated her all those years ago. Life isn't always that easy though and if she lets Luke into her heart and her father finds out she could be taken away from him again. This way, she might not have him, but she can at least see him and that will have to be enough.
"I just didn't want my hell to touch you."
Luke wasn't naive and he wasn't going to let Hannah go without a fight. You could tell from the beginning that their connection was inevitable, but he just had to find out a way to get around her walls without scaring her away completely.
At this point, I will read anything Nicole Dykes writes but I haven't read but one of her MF romances and I am happy that I am going back into her catalog and discovering more of her work. I haven't read book one in The Monroe Family Series yet, but I plan to after reading Unbridled.
June 15, 2016
Gifted for an honest review.
Let me start out by saying I love Nicole Dykes writing, loved the first book and love all the Monroe's and the secondary characters your introduced to. In this second installment we have Luke (2nd oldest Monroe) going off to college and meeting his life long friend yet estranged for the last three years there. Now Luke and all his family and friends are great catching up with, Dylan and Brooke was super. What wasn't super is the main female character Hannah. I'm not one to have a filter so why try now... she was just an awful, doormat, stepford wife, irritating character the majority of this book. I understand trying to make a parent love and be proud of you but at some point you have got to say fuck it this is me and I'm living for me. Yea finally at 87% Hannah gets a backbone but by then a little to little a little to late for her to redeem herself in my eyes. I literally hated her. I am a strong, vocal female and I like my female characters to be the same or at least find that strength before the majority of the book is over. Will I read the next book you betcha, do I hope the next female lead isn't TSTL or flat out annoying oh yea!!! 2.5 sad stars because Hannah Sucked!!!
Let me start out by saying I love Nicole Dykes writing, loved the first book and love all the Monroe's and the secondary characters your introduced to. In this second installment we have Luke (2nd oldest Monroe) going off to college and meeting his life long friend yet estranged for the last three years there. Now Luke and all his family and friends are great catching up with, Dylan and Brooke was super. What wasn't super is the main female character Hannah. I'm not one to have a filter so why try now... she was just an awful, doormat, stepford wife, irritating character the majority of this book. I understand trying to make a parent love and be proud of you but at some point you have got to say fuck it this is me and I'm living for me. Yea finally at 87% Hannah gets a backbone but by then a little to little a little to late for her to redeem herself in my eyes. I literally hated her. I am a strong, vocal female and I like my female characters to be the same or at least find that strength before the majority of the book is over. Will I read the next book you betcha, do I hope the next female lead isn't TSTL or flat out annoying oh yea!!! 2.5 sad stars because Hannah Sucked!!!
July 3, 2016
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't read the first book in the series before starting this one, so I had to play a little bit of catch-up with the family and friends. So I think that's why I originally felt that it started out a little slow. It took me a bit to get into the rhythm of the author's writing, but once I did I was hooked on Luke and Hannah's story.
I also felt it took a little long for Hannah's story to fully unfold. I kept trying to figure out what her big secret was. In a way this was a second chance story and I really enjoyed that about this book, even though the main characters were so young. I also liked that the author addressed that they were young to have found 'the one' so early and that it was okay to be afraid of that.
This author's writing reminds me a bit of Kristen Ashley, who writes about a lot of characters and lengthy books to get her story across.
I'm now diving into the the first book because I really want to know more about Dylan and Brooke. I also can't wait for the next story to be about about Jax and I hope Alex.
I didn't read the first book in the series before starting this one, so I had to play a little bit of catch-up with the family and friends. So I think that's why I originally felt that it started out a little slow. It took me a bit to get into the rhythm of the author's writing, but once I did I was hooked on Luke and Hannah's story.
I also felt it took a little long for Hannah's story to fully unfold. I kept trying to figure out what her big secret was. In a way this was a second chance story and I really enjoyed that about this book, even though the main characters were so young. I also liked that the author addressed that they were young to have found 'the one' so early and that it was okay to be afraid of that.
This author's writing reminds me a bit of Kristen Ashley, who writes about a lot of characters and lengthy books to get her story across.
I'm now diving into the the first book because I really want to know more about Dylan and Brooke. I also can't wait for the next story to be about about Jax and I hope Alex.
August 1, 2016
Another 5 star read from Nicole Dykes!
Nicole generously gifted me this book in return for an honest review. I can honestly say I was not disappointed in this sequel.
Luke was everything I had hoped him to be. He's in college and trying to figure out which dream to follow. His, or one that's been expected of him from an early age. But, all the while he's living his life loose and with no attachments. Just the way he likes it, that is, until Hannah. A childhood friend he never expected to see again. And she wants nothing to do with him!
But Luke won't stop until he finds out why. He is a lot like his older brother Dylan though. Can he really settle down with just one woman? Can another Monroe playboy be tamed? Well, you need to read this series to find out. I definitely was not disappointed in all the Monroe male sexiness!
Thank you Nicole for another great story. I really liked catching up with the Monroe family. I can't wait for future books from you.
I have no doubt they will be fantastic!!!
Nicole generously gifted me this book in return for an honest review. I can honestly say I was not disappointed in this sequel.
Luke was everything I had hoped him to be. He's in college and trying to figure out which dream to follow. His, or one that's been expected of him from an early age. But, all the while he's living his life loose and with no attachments. Just the way he likes it, that is, until Hannah. A childhood friend he never expected to see again. And she wants nothing to do with him!
But Luke won't stop until he finds out why. He is a lot like his older brother Dylan though. Can he really settle down with just one woman? Can another Monroe playboy be tamed? Well, you need to read this series to find out. I definitely was not disappointed in all the Monroe male sexiness!
Thank you Nicole for another great story. I really liked catching up with the Monroe family. I can't wait for future books from you.
I have no doubt they will be fantastic!!!
June 13, 2016
I was kindly given an ARC for an honest review.
I loved the first book Unsocial and I have to say I loved this one too! Luke had grown from the boy we saw in the first book but that is not to say he was still a little stupid in this one! I loved how he brought Hannah out of herself back to who she was rather than the church going stepford daughter she had become. It was good to see her be her own person and Luke realise that he too could not live his life for others.
Lovely catching up with all the Monroe's plus an added treat with the prologue to Jax's book - can't wait to see who brings him to his knees!
Thank you to Nicole for the ARC - can't wait for the next book!!
I loved the first book Unsocial and I have to say I loved this one too! Luke had grown from the boy we saw in the first book but that is not to say he was still a little stupid in this one! I loved how he brought Hannah out of herself back to who she was rather than the church going stepford daughter she had become. It was good to see her be her own person and Luke realise that he too could not live his life for others.
Lovely catching up with all the Monroe's plus an added treat with the prologue to Jax's book - can't wait to see who brings him to his knees!
Thank you to Nicole for the ARC - can't wait for the next book!!
May 26, 2017
Total Sweetness!
This is a great continuation to the series. I don't know what took me so long to pick up book 2 but now I'm all in and moving right on. I can't wait for all the brothers to get their HEA. What a great family story.
This is a great continuation to the series. I don't know what took me so long to pick up book 2 but now I'm all in and moving right on. I can't wait for all the brothers to get their HEA. What a great family story.
July 4, 2018
I loved Lucas and Hannahs story!! The fact that they knew each other since they were kids just made me love them even more!!! These two deserved to be together from the start and they had to battle so much just to get there HEA together! Another great book. Def recommend reading!
September 20, 2016
Again, Nicole Dykes did it again. She has amazing writing style that just keeps you wanting to read mroe.. I really really liked this book as well.
June 19, 2017
This is the continuation of the Monroe family. Lucas is the 2nd oldest son and the storyline concentrates on him. Hannah used to live down the street from Lucas where they became best friends and inseparable. Then Hannah ups and moves and Lucas is devastated when communications are lost. Nicole Dykes has brought together a storyline that has you craving for more. You will actually feel the highs and lows, as well as their love for one another. You will find yourself laughing, crying and cheering them on. I think that there maybe room for another book on Lucas as he still has so much there to write about. I would love to know more about his life and his business he has started. Please pick up the series of the Monroes and loose yourself in someone else's life and dream.
June 8, 2017
Luke and a Hannah were best friends growing up. But Hannah moved away and she only came back once. After that time she fell off the face of the earth. But now they are at the same college and she wants nothing to do with Luke or their friendship. He of course can't take that as an answer and pushes her to explain what happened. They fall into a pattern of friends with benefits but eventually the truth comes out and they decide to go back to being friends. Yea you know how well that works! Needless to say this is another great story. I love this series!
June 8, 2019
Absolutely great read
Hannah and Luke were best friends since they were 5 years old she left for Texas and he went on with his life. But that all changed when they both went to the very same college...
I loved everything about this book, watching these two struggle with their affection towards one another made you want to read even more because you just wanted to see them happy. Do they ever get to be happy? I can’t tell you that, you’ll have to read this book to find out...
The chemistry, the feels, all of it. So so good!
And you want to read this book! I promise 😍
5 stars Nicole! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hannah and Luke were best friends since they were 5 years old she left for Texas and he went on with his life. But that all changed when they both went to the very same college...
I loved everything about this book, watching these two struggle with their affection towards one another made you want to read even more because you just wanted to see them happy. Do they ever get to be happy? I can’t tell you that, you’ll have to read this book to find out...
The chemistry, the feels, all of it. So so good!
And you want to read this book! I promise 😍
5 stars Nicole! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 20, 2017
This is the second book in The Monroe Family series.
Luke is living the dream of his father. He is going to college on a full scholarship and playing football. He used to love football. His dream is to work with his brother working on bikes, so he will suffer through college to make his father's memory proud. Then he runs into his childhood friend and being at college seems like a piece of cake.
Hannah is running from her family's issues and hides away at college. She wants to be there, she wants a career. What she doesn't want is her roommate to watch every move she makes and threaten to tell her father.
I love this series. You have two broken people that are whole when they are together. I hurt for them both. I also want to strangle them both while reading this.
They are friends, they are friends with benefits, they are just friends again! Get it together you two and just say what you feel for each other is true love! The entire family can see it way before they can.
I can't wait to start the next one!
Luke is living the dream of his father. He is going to college on a full scholarship and playing football. He used to love football. His dream is to work with his brother working on bikes, so he will suffer through college to make his father's memory proud. Then he runs into his childhood friend and being at college seems like a piece of cake.
Hannah is running from her family's issues and hides away at college. She wants to be there, she wants a career. What she doesn't want is her roommate to watch every move she makes and threaten to tell her father.
I love this series. You have two broken people that are whole when they are together. I hurt for them both. I also want to strangle them both while reading this.
They are friends, they are friends with benefits, they are just friends again! Get it together you two and just say what you feel for each other is true love! The entire family can see it way before they can.
I can't wait to start the next one!
May 24, 2017
Awesomeness! I absolutely loved this story. The more you get into it, the deeper it crawls into your heart. The story often leaves you wanting to slap some sense into the main characters, but the story wouldn't be as exhilarating as it is without the human insecurities. Great read!
January 24, 2019
The Monroes tales continue..With our sarcastic loving Luke!
Our loving bad boy pain in the butt Luke Monroe..I knew it would take a special kind of lady to tame him.Hannah is just that.Their story is so intricate and complicated with twists and turns and surprises.Loved it!I also like how active our other Monroes are in it..5+ stars!!!
Our loving bad boy pain in the butt Luke Monroe..I knew it would take a special kind of lady to tame him.Hannah is just that.Their story is so intricate and complicated with twists and turns and surprises.Loved it!I also like how active our other Monroes are in it..5+ stars!!!
July 9, 2017
Awesome read
It was great getting to know Luke from the first book, and seeing how he got his happily ever after! Good characters, great story, perfect ending. Loved it and can't wait to read the next.
It was great getting to know Luke from the first book, and seeing how he got his happily ever after! Good characters, great story, perfect ending. Loved it and can't wait to read the next.
November 2, 2017
😍
Nicole another great book I can’t tell you how much I love your series you are an amazing author highly recommend this book
Nicole another great book I can’t tell you how much I love your series you are an amazing author highly recommend this book
June 4, 2019
Hi Lucas!
Well, I really enjoyed this story overall. I did. I’m being serious.
BUT, Lucas pissed me off in Dylan’s and Brooke’s story and I evidently haven’t forgiven him.
Go figure!
So for me, there were certain parts of this story I did not enjoy. (I’m sorry Nicole)
I loved reading about the extended family! I love Dylan and Brooke and Gaby and Michael and everyone else. I cannot believe Cassie slept with Brent again! That girl!
Overall, very good story if you are able to forgive Luke from the previous story.
Well, I really enjoyed this story overall. I did. I’m being serious.
BUT, Lucas pissed me off in Dylan’s and Brooke’s story and I evidently haven’t forgiven him.
Go figure!
So for me, there were certain parts of this story I did not enjoy. (I’m sorry Nicole)
I loved reading about the extended family! I love Dylan and Brooke and Gaby and Michael and everyone else. I cannot believe Cassie slept with Brent again! That girl!
Overall, very good story if you are able to forgive Luke from the previous story.
January 1, 2019
Luke and Hannah their story is insane. I'm totally in love with them. Hannahs courage and strength to move forward the way she did
She is my hero.
And Luke with everything he's been through to finally have the balls to live his life.
They chose the best for them and are heading in the best direction together forward
She is my hero.
And Luke with everything he's been through to finally have the balls to live his life.
They chose the best for them and are heading in the best direction together forward
April 4, 2020
Luke and Hannah holy smokes
I related to this story alot as I fell in love at such a young age and had ups and downs. Parent problems etc. I loved how they choose each other and not "friends" can't wait to dive in the next book!
I related to this story alot as I fell in love at such a young age and had ups and downs. Parent problems etc. I loved how they choose each other and not "friends" can't wait to dive in the next book!
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