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Whiskey Sharp #1
Unraveled
The sharpest ache comes from wanting what you think you can't have
Maybe Dolan has lived independent, free-spirited and unattached since leaving home at sixteen. Whiskey Sharp, Seattle's sexy vintage-styled barbershop and whiskey bar, gave her a job and a reason to put down roots. Cutting hair by day, losing herself drumming in a punk rock band by night, she's got it good.
But a longtime crush that turns into a hot, edgy night with brooding and bearded Alexsei Petrov makes it a hell of a lot better.
Maybe's blunt attitude and carnal smile hooked Alexsei from the start. Protecting people is part of his nature and Maybe is meant to be his even if she doesn't know it. Yet. He can't help himself from wanting to protect and care for her.
But Maybe's fiery independent spirit means pushing back when Alexsei goes too far. Still, he's not afraid to do a little pushing of his own to get what he wants her in his life, and his bed, for good. Maybe's more intoxicating than all the liquor on his shelf and he's not afraid to ride the blade's edge to bind her to him."
Maybe Dolan has lived independent, free-spirited and unattached since leaving home at sixteen. Whiskey Sharp, Seattle's sexy vintage-styled barbershop and whiskey bar, gave her a job and a reason to put down roots. Cutting hair by day, losing herself drumming in a punk rock band by night, she's got it good.
But a longtime crush that turns into a hot, edgy night with brooding and bearded Alexsei Petrov makes it a hell of a lot better.
Maybe's blunt attitude and carnal smile hooked Alexsei from the start. Protecting people is part of his nature and Maybe is meant to be his even if she doesn't know it. Yet. He can't help himself from wanting to protect and care for her.
But Maybe's fiery independent spirit means pushing back when Alexsei goes too far. Still, he's not afraid to do a little pushing of his own to get what he wants her in his life, and his bed, for good. Maybe's more intoxicating than all the liquor on his shelf and he's not afraid to ride the blade's edge to bind her to him."
345 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 30, 2018
About the author
Lauren Dane
111 books5,007 followersLauren Dane has been writing stories since she was able to use a pencil, and before that she used to tell them to people. Of course, she still talks nonstop, and through wonderful fate and good fortune, she’s now able to share what she writes with others. It’s a wonderful life!
The basics: Lauren is a mom, a partner, a best friend and a daughter. Living in the rainy but beautiful Pacific Northwest, she spends her late evenings writing like a fiend when she finally wrestles all of her kids to bed.
The basics: Lauren is a mom, a partner, a best friend and a daughter. Living in the rainy but beautiful Pacific Northwest, she spends her late evenings writing like a fiend when she finally wrestles all of her kids to bed.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
February 7, 2018
I am seriously considering creating a "are-you-fucking-kidding-me" shelf. This book would be the first to grace that shelf. *sigh* What the hell are you doing here, Lauren Dane?
First of all, reading a story about a character named "Maybe" is really difficult. Every single sentence that began with her name was a sentence I had to reread. Fuck that annoying shit.
Second, Maybe is a freaking dumbass. Total. Dumbass. Okay so, she comes across totally badass in the beginning, but then we learn more about her choices with her sister and parents and the whole time I'm just like "Seriously? That's a terrible choice. Uh huh. That also is a terrible choice. That one, too." The way she chooses to protect her sister is nonsensical and ineffective. It literally makes zero sense and I feel like Lauren Dane (WHO I FUCKING ADORE) absolutely phoned this one in. I don't think she thought this through at all because the logic ain't sound, baby. Not even close. Maybe is a lame af martyr that says she doesn't want to be a martyr, then insists on being one. That's super annoying and stupid.
Third, the bad guy. Sorry, The Bad Guy, is frothing at the mouth insane and everyone is just like "But you need to listen to me. But you're not listening to me. I told you before, but you just aren't listening!" Like if I were in their shoes, I literally would have pulled a gun and forced the situation to end with lights and sirens, perhaps those belonging to an ambulance as well as the police. I would attempt to avoid a visit from the coroner, but I make no promises. What I'm getting at here in a very round about way (I'm so good at reviewing shit) is that the characters make terrible and illogical choices that don't match the situation. Crazy dude threatening to have you involuntarily committed? "Maybe you should go." Bitch, call the cops. Want your sister to have a good relationship with your parents? "It's okay that they psychologically terrorize me as long as you can have Thanksgiving dinner with them, sis!" I wanted to rip my hair out of my head reading these dumbasses react like ... dumbasses! Lobotomies. Lobotomies for everyone.
Fourth, because yes there is a fourth, the story drags and drags and drags until things ramp up at the end a little bit before THE CLIFFHANGER. Fucking A, why? WHY? And the next book doesn't even focus on the same characters, so you get a "happily for now" and zero resolution to any of the conflict. WHY DID I READ THIS? WHY DID SOMEBODY PUBLISH IT?
*grinds teeth* I love this author, y'all. But I dunno what this mess is. This book's saving grace was Alexsei, because of course our H/h both have to have stupid or overly long names because fucking hipsters. Anyway, he was a great character. A little misstep here and there, but I dug him hard. Lauren Dane wrote a poetic and dominant hero, so there is a silver lining here. But is Alexsei worth the read? I say no, unfortunately. If you want to bore yourself to death and get angry at fictional characters and their terrible choices, then please by all means give this book a shot. However... I think it's kinda shit compared to some of the author's other works.
First of all, reading a story about a character named "Maybe" is really difficult. Every single sentence that began with her name was a sentence I had to reread. Fuck that annoying shit.
Second, Maybe is a freaking dumbass. Total. Dumbass. Okay so, she comes across totally badass in the beginning, but then we learn more about her choices with her sister and parents and the whole time I'm just like "Seriously? That's a terrible choice. Uh huh. That also is a terrible choice. That one, too." The way she chooses to protect her sister is nonsensical and ineffective. It literally makes zero sense and I feel like Lauren Dane (WHO I FUCKING ADORE) absolutely phoned this one in. I don't think she thought this through at all because the logic ain't sound, baby. Not even close. Maybe is a lame af martyr that says she doesn't want to be a martyr, then insists on being one. That's super annoying and stupid.
Third, the bad guy. Sorry, The Bad Guy, is frothing at the mouth insane and everyone is just like "But you need to listen to me. But you're not listening to me. I told you before, but you just aren't listening!" Like if I were in their shoes, I literally would have pulled a gun and forced the situation to end with lights and sirens, perhaps those belonging to an ambulance as well as the police. I would attempt to avoid a visit from the coroner, but I make no promises. What I'm getting at here in a very round about way (I'm so good at reviewing shit) is that the characters make terrible and illogical choices that don't match the situation. Crazy dude threatening to have you involuntarily committed? "Maybe you should go." Bitch, call the cops. Want your sister to have a good relationship with your parents? "It's okay that they psychologically terrorize me as long as you can have Thanksgiving dinner with them, sis!" I wanted to rip my hair out of my head reading these dumbasses react like ... dumbasses! Lobotomies. Lobotomies for everyone.
Fourth, because yes there is a fourth, the story drags and drags and drags until things ramp up at the end a little bit before THE CLIFFHANGER. Fucking A, why? WHY? And the next book doesn't even focus on the same characters, so you get a "happily for now" and zero resolution to any of the conflict. WHY DID I READ THIS? WHY DID SOMEBODY PUBLISH IT?
*grinds teeth* I love this author, y'all. But I dunno what this mess is. This book's saving grace was Alexsei, because of course our H/h both have to have stupid or overly long names because fucking hipsters. Anyway, he was a great character. A little misstep here and there, but I dug him hard. Lauren Dane wrote a poetic and dominant hero, so there is a silver lining here. But is Alexsei worth the read? I say no, unfortunately. If you want to bore yourself to death and get angry at fictional characters and their terrible choices, then please by all means give this book a shot. However... I think it's kinda shit compared to some of the author's other works.
January 23, 2018
Maybe was a hair dresser at a local barbershop/whiskey bar. After years of watching women circle Alexsei, they hook up because they are both unattached at the same time.
Maybe challenges Alexsei to see the world through her eyes, while Maybe needs the security Alexsei can offer. They truly are friends before they become more.
Maybe goes through some very difficult times with her parents and in the end, I pretty much hated them…
The flip side to that is Alexsei’s family. They are loud, lots of food and adopted both Maybe and her sister, Rachel, even before Alexsei knew what was happening.
I liked Unraveled. Hot Russian, rocker/hair dresser drums and family.
I received this ARC copy of Unraveled from Harlequin -HQN. This is my honest and voluntary review. Unraveled is set for publication Jan. 30, 2018
My Rating: 3.5 stars
Written by: Lauren Dane
Series: Whiskey Sharp (Book 1)
Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: HQN
Publication Date: January 30, 2018
ISBN-10: 0373799381
ISBN-13: 978-0373799381
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Whiskey-Sharp-...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/whis...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/whis...
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Maybe challenges Alexsei to see the world through her eyes, while Maybe needs the security Alexsei can offer. They truly are friends before they become more.
Maybe goes through some very difficult times with her parents and in the end, I pretty much hated them…
The flip side to that is Alexsei’s family. They are loud, lots of food and adopted both Maybe and her sister, Rachel, even before Alexsei knew what was happening.
I liked Unraveled. Hot Russian, rocker/hair dresser drums and family.
I received this ARC copy of Unraveled from Harlequin -HQN. This is my honest and voluntary review. Unraveled is set for publication Jan. 30, 2018
My Rating: 3.5 stars
Written by: Lauren Dane
Series: Whiskey Sharp (Book 1)
Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: HQN
Publication Date: January 30, 2018
ISBN-10: 0373799381
ISBN-13: 978-0373799381
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Whiskey-Sharp-...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/whis...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/whis...
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 11, 2018
Lauren Dane launches her Whiskey Sharp series with Unraveled, a sweet and sexy tale about dark and brooding Russian Alexsei Petrov and independent and free-spirited Maybe Dolan.
After a year of hiring Maybe to work at his vintage-styled barbershop, Alexsei is ready to take their attraction to fruition, but even though Maybe has crushed on the delicious Russian, her independence and natural inclination to put others before herself makes his desire to protect her and make her his a bit of a challenge. But hot nights make getting to a place where they find a balance a very enjoyable journey.
Both the main characters were equally appealing. Maybe, with all her issues was lively, warm and passionate caring for others, particularly her older sister, with fierce determination. Alexsei doesn’t just exude confidence and sexiness, he’s a family man whose tendencies to dominate and guard never overwhelm the Maybe’s free-spirited nature and finds her generosity absolutely intoxicating. The supporting characters were equally interesting and I can’t wait to read more about them, and although at times they threatened to overcome the main plot, Dane preserved the focus on the main couple.
Unraveled is book #1 of the Whiskey Sharp series by Lauren Dane. It is an engaging contemporary romance, told in third person from both points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2nKEwKn
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk us on FaceBook * Twitter * Pinterest Book Teasers * More reviews
After a year of hiring Maybe to work at his vintage-styled barbershop, Alexsei is ready to take their attraction to fruition, but even though Maybe has crushed on the delicious Russian, her independence and natural inclination to put others before herself makes his desire to protect her and make her his a bit of a challenge. But hot nights make getting to a place where they find a balance a very enjoyable journey.
Both the main characters were equally appealing. Maybe, with all her issues was lively, warm and passionate caring for others, particularly her older sister, with fierce determination. Alexsei doesn’t just exude confidence and sexiness, he’s a family man whose tendencies to dominate and guard never overwhelm the Maybe’s free-spirited nature and finds her generosity absolutely intoxicating. The supporting characters were equally interesting and I can’t wait to read more about them, and although at times they threatened to overcome the main plot, Dane preserved the focus on the main couple.
Unraveled is book #1 of the Whiskey Sharp series by Lauren Dane. It is an engaging contemporary romance, told in third person from both points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2nKEwKn
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk us on FaceBook * Twitter * Pinterest Book Teasers * More reviews
March 15, 2018
Intense, complex, and full of angst!
Whiskey Sharp Unraveled is an emotional, friends-to-lovers romance that reminds you that your true family is composed of those that love, care, support, and accept you and not necessarily those that are related by blood.
The prose is smooth and fluid. The characters are colourful, dependable, and passionate. And the plot is a sexy and steamy ride about love, life, familial drama, abuse, sexual tension, friendship, and romance.
I have to admit that even though I didn't have a great connection with the characters in Whiskey Sharp Unraveled and I found the heroine's name, Maybe, a little disruptive to the flow at times it is still an entertaining read with intriguing supporting characters that I look forward to reading more about in Whiskey Sharp Jagged, the next novel in the series.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
Whiskey Sharp Unraveled is an emotional, friends-to-lovers romance that reminds you that your true family is composed of those that love, care, support, and accept you and not necessarily those that are related by blood.
The prose is smooth and fluid. The characters are colourful, dependable, and passionate. And the plot is a sexy and steamy ride about love, life, familial drama, abuse, sexual tension, friendship, and romance.
I have to admit that even though I didn't have a great connection with the characters in Whiskey Sharp Unraveled and I found the heroine's name, Maybe, a little disruptive to the flow at times it is still an entertaining read with intriguing supporting characters that I look forward to reading more about in Whiskey Sharp Jagged, the next novel in the series.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
January 29, 2018
4.5 stars
Sisters Maybe and Rachel Dolan and their small group of friends are very appealing, but it’s Alexsei Petrov’s family, the Orlovs, a boisterous, nosy, but loving family of Russian immigrants, and next door neighbors of the Dolan sisters, that really sucked me in. The matriarch of the family, Alexsei’s Aunt Irena, not only “adopts” the Dolan sisters into her home and family, but she sends Maybe to Whiskey Sharp, Alexsei’s upscale barbershop and whiskey bar for a job. Alexsei and Maybe have spent two years working together and building a solid friendship before taking their relationship to a romantic level. Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes, so I was totally onboard. I found Maybe impossible to resist. She’s friendly, chatty, funny, and fiercely protective of her older sister, Rachel. Rachel, a former FBI agent with a very intriguing and somewhat mysterious backstory, is key to Maybe’s story. Maybe’s determined cheerfulness is especially admirable considering her difficult childhood. The Dolan sisters’ parents add drama and conflict to the story, in the bes/worst possible way. As much as I love Maybe, Alexsei is just as appealing. He’s quiet, taciturn, kind of grouchy, but loyal, sweet, and protective of those he loves. He packs quite a punch. I kept picturing him dressed for work in his trousers, button down shirt with his sleeves rolled up and held in place with garters. Damn, Ms. Dane paints quite a picture! I want to go to Seattle, visit Whiskey Sharp, and sit drinking whiskey while watching sexy barbers with Russian accents go about their business. I know they’re not real and Whiskey Sharp doesn’t exist, but Ms. Dane makes me believe otherwise. Alexsei and Maybe are hot, sweet, and very funny. Their story, and their family and friends are very entertaining. I know this is one series I will be re-reading again and again.
edited
August 31, 2016Pulled this hot kiss between Alexsei and Maybe while I was editing.
“Being with you is like riding a rollercoaster.”
“Do you like rollercoasters?” she asked.
He nodded.
“All right then.”
He stood, meaning to settle on her bed with her until his phone buzzed in his pocket and he remembered he was only going to take a walk and he’d been there for at least an hour.
And a look at the screen told him he was correct that they’d noticed his absence.
“Is everything all right?” Maybe asked as she stood as well.
He typed that he’d be right back and put the phone away before taking her face in his hands and kissing her.
He didn't want to go back over there. He wanted to stay here, with her scent all around him. So he could watch her face as she spoke, animated and so freaking full of energy.
He really didn’t want to break the kiss he’d started to delay leaving and now felt like the best thing he’d ever experienced. She seemed to melt against him, her body snugged up against his, her curves called to him so he gave in, sliding his hands down her body to her hips. She gasped and he sucked in the sound.
Need seemed to gather low in his belly as his cock throbbed in time with his thundering pulse.
She was fire. Her skin seemed to sear the palms of his hands as they roamed. This was what he’d needed. What he’d wanted from the first he’d met her. Her taste, her body against his.
He could have fucked women for years and not felt this level of intimacy and connection and that humbled him.
Once he was able to drag his mouth from hers, he touched his forehead to hers a moment before stepping back.
“Being with you is like riding a rollercoaster.”
“Do you like rollercoasters?” she asked.
He nodded.
“All right then.”
He stood, meaning to settle on her bed with her until his phone buzzed in his pocket and he remembered he was only going to take a walk and he’d been there for at least an hour.
And a look at the screen told him he was correct that they’d noticed his absence.
“Is everything all right?” Maybe asked as she stood as well.
He typed that he’d be right back and put the phone away before taking her face in his hands and kissing her.
He didn't want to go back over there. He wanted to stay here, with her scent all around him. So he could watch her face as she spoke, animated and so freaking full of energy.
He really didn’t want to break the kiss he’d started to delay leaving and now felt like the best thing he’d ever experienced. She seemed to melt against him, her body snugged up against his, her curves called to him so he gave in, sliding his hands down her body to her hips. She gasped and he sucked in the sound.
Need seemed to gather low in his belly as his cock throbbed in time with his thundering pulse.
She was fire. Her skin seemed to sear the palms of his hands as they roamed. This was what he’d needed. What he’d wanted from the first he’d met her. Her taste, her body against his.
He could have fucked women for years and not felt this level of intimacy and connection and that humbled him.
Once he was able to drag his mouth from hers, he touched his forehead to hers a moment before stepping back.
June 11, 2020
Steamy friends to lovers romance…
I loved Maybe and Alexsei’s story! It was a new series but it felt like (and took me right back to) Ink & Chrome (which means I will heading back there next!). I was determined to get to bed early but instead I am bleary-eyed this morning and not regretting it one little bit.
Did I stumble a little (okay, a lot) over the fierce and funny female lead’s name? Yes, yes I did. But her unique name reflected the brightness of her personality. She had a kick-butt attitude that surfaced everywhere starting with her confident approach to getting a job at Alexsei’s barber shop. She made an impression on him from the start but their friendship built until they were both ready for more…
Alexsei was a quiet man but he knew when to speak and made his move at just the right time. As their feelings grew, so did the intimacy as they both discovered more to admire and love about each other. Maybe was fiercely protective of her loved ones and let no one mess with them or her. Alexsei was the same…
The relationship between her sister, her aunt and uncle and now Alexsei and his family, was full of sweetness and sarcasm, and lots and lots of love. With the lovers’ bonds tested from more than one source, it was a journey full of all the emotion and just right drama I craved. The ending was abrupt to say the least but I know there is more coming with Rachel and Vic’s story next – so much for sleep! ~Diane, 4.5 stars
I loved Maybe and Alexsei’s story! It was a new series but it felt like (and took me right back to) Ink & Chrome (which means I will heading back there next!). I was determined to get to bed early but instead I am bleary-eyed this morning and not regretting it one little bit.
Did I stumble a little (okay, a lot) over the fierce and funny female lead’s name? Yes, yes I did. But her unique name reflected the brightness of her personality. She had a kick-butt attitude that surfaced everywhere starting with her confident approach to getting a job at Alexsei’s barber shop. She made an impression on him from the start but their friendship built until they were both ready for more…
Alexsei was a quiet man but he knew when to speak and made his move at just the right time. As their feelings grew, so did the intimacy as they both discovered more to admire and love about each other. Maybe was fiercely protective of her loved ones and let no one mess with them or her. Alexsei was the same…
The relationship between her sister, her aunt and uncle and now Alexsei and his family, was full of sweetness and sarcasm, and lots and lots of love. With the lovers’ bonds tested from more than one source, it was a journey full of all the emotion and just right drama I craved. The ending was abrupt to say the least but I know there is more coming with Rachel and Vic’s story next – so much for sleep! ~Diane, 4.5 stars
Read
February 3, 2018Overall Whisky sharp was an okay read for me. A lot of the story was the back story of side characters I wished the story was more focused on the main couple Maybe and Alexsei. I did like how the Maybe and Alexsei romance progressed throughout the book it was more realistic. 3/5 stars.
January 28, 2018
***ARC Provided by the Author/Publisher via NetGalley***
I was excited about this title, I thought it would be interesting and different. I liked the idea of hairstylists working in a salon that was also a bar.
There were parts of it that did work for me, and I did enjoy the relationship between Alexsei and Maybe. I liked that there was an attraction there, and that it was not pursued...until it was and then both of the characters were all in to the relationship and that it moved forward with the idea that both of them were invested in the relationship.
Unfortunately, I thought the secondary characters got in the way of the story and there was too much time spent on the development of their story arc. I also thought Alexsie's ex was unnecessary and not a very believable character, and this impacted my ability to engage with the story.
I do think the series has potential and I am interested to see where it goes from here. Hopefully, there will be less focus on the introduction of the secondary characters as the series moves from the first book.
I am not able to recommend this title.
***This and other reviews featured on our blog Booked All Night http://bookedallnightblog.com/***
I was excited about this title, I thought it would be interesting and different. I liked the idea of hairstylists working in a salon that was also a bar.
There were parts of it that did work for me, and I did enjoy the relationship between Alexsei and Maybe. I liked that there was an attraction there, and that it was not pursued...until it was and then both of the characters were all in to the relationship and that it moved forward with the idea that both of them were invested in the relationship.
Unfortunately, I thought the secondary characters got in the way of the story and there was too much time spent on the development of their story arc. I also thought Alexsie's ex was unnecessary and not a very believable character, and this impacted my ability to engage with the story.
I do think the series has potential and I am interested to see where it goes from here. Hopefully, there will be less focus on the introduction of the secondary characters as the series moves from the first book.
I am not able to recommend this title.
***This and other reviews featured on our blog Booked All Night http://bookedallnightblog.com/***
May 10, 2021
Read this book now! Ms. Dane starts another emotionally packed series that hits me hard in the heart. I devoured this erotic romance in one sitting. It is a page turning and a must read. Be forewarned, it is angsty and will most likely cause a book hangover.
Always a fan of Ms. Dane, her most powerful romances come from ones where broken families create their own families. This formula works well for Ms. Dane and she does it so exquisitely. In this one, Maybe Dolan's life has been tumultuous as the hated younger child. The cuts Maybe suffers from her parents are so sharp, she bleeds out with no one noticing.
I loved Maybe. She is a character who is strong and a survivor. What she experienced in her family is a disgrace. How her parents could have treated her the way she was treated is unfathomable to me. It is only due to the love of her aunt and uncle she survives her childhood somewhat intact. The scenes between Maybe and her father are infuriating and disturbing. I realize Ms. Dane does not go down the path of sexual abuse from Maybe's father, but I have to say my piece. From an outsider's perspective, Maybe's father is not only one of the worst kind of fathers, but disgusting. My personal take is that he is so terrible to Maybe mostly because he can't handle how sexy his daughter is and that he has sexual desires he can not act upon. So he projects his disgusting filth upon Maybe and completely tries to destroy her. Please note, in this story, there is no incest abuse implied or uncovered. It is my own reading into it.
Despite Maybe's harsh childhood, she is a pretty balanced adult who is doing everything she can to support her sister's huge life change. Learning what happened to Rachel, Maybe's sister, is heartbreaking. I can't wait to learn about Rachel's story. I am sure Ms. Dane will cause me to grab some tissue paper. Maybe is a creative soul who has a great job and does what she loves. Why her parents can not accept this is beyond me. She is easily relate-able and represents a good portion of Americans. The fact that her parents want to crush her under their heel is unacceptable.
Fortunately, Alexsei Petrov feels the same. Alexsei has his own baggage with his family. He too was raised by his aunt and uncle instead of his mother. A different variation than Maybe, but similar enough that they bond over it. Alexsei and Maybe's relationship is complicated and crosses several lines. None of it is insurmountable, yet Alexsei is hesitant. This is what I love about Maybe. Tired of waiting she asks him out and that is all she wrote.
The sexual chemistry between these two is clearly visible. With the support of the family members who matter, they become a couple. I loved the give and take in the relationship. The sex is stellar as Ms. Dane excels with her steamy erotic scenes. There is no kink in this story even if Maybe jokes about not being Vanilla. It is "spiced" Vanilla in my book. Quite tame yet still blazing hawt! The ending of this book is sweet, even if it leaves it a bit of a cliffhanger. Basically, Rachel and Maybe's parents pull a crazy stunt which may be resolved in the next book. I'm eagerly anticipating the next book in this new series already. This erotic romance is highly recommended to all romance readers.
*provided by NetGalley
Always a fan of Ms. Dane, her most powerful romances come from ones where broken families create their own families. This formula works well for Ms. Dane and she does it so exquisitely. In this one, Maybe Dolan's life has been tumultuous as the hated younger child. The cuts Maybe suffers from her parents are so sharp, she bleeds out with no one noticing.
I loved Maybe. She is a character who is strong and a survivor. What she experienced in her family is a disgrace. How her parents could have treated her the way she was treated is unfathomable to me. It is only due to the love of her aunt and uncle she survives her childhood somewhat intact. The scenes between Maybe and her father are infuriating and disturbing. I realize Ms. Dane does not go down the path of sexual abuse from Maybe's father, but I have to say my piece. From an outsider's perspective, Maybe's father is not only one of the worst kind of fathers, but disgusting. My personal take is that he is so terrible to Maybe mostly because he can't handle how sexy his daughter is and that he has sexual desires he can not act upon. So he projects his disgusting filth upon Maybe and completely tries to destroy her. Please note, in this story, there is no incest abuse implied or uncovered. It is my own reading into it.
Despite Maybe's harsh childhood, she is a pretty balanced adult who is doing everything she can to support her sister's huge life change. Learning what happened to Rachel, Maybe's sister, is heartbreaking. I can't wait to learn about Rachel's story. I am sure Ms. Dane will cause me to grab some tissue paper. Maybe is a creative soul who has a great job and does what she loves. Why her parents can not accept this is beyond me. She is easily relate-able and represents a good portion of Americans. The fact that her parents want to crush her under their heel is unacceptable.
Fortunately, Alexsei Petrov feels the same. Alexsei has his own baggage with his family. He too was raised by his aunt and uncle instead of his mother. A different variation than Maybe, but similar enough that they bond over it. Alexsei and Maybe's relationship is complicated and crosses several lines. None of it is insurmountable, yet Alexsei is hesitant. This is what I love about Maybe. Tired of waiting she asks him out and that is all she wrote.
The sexual chemistry between these two is clearly visible. With the support of the family members who matter, they become a couple. I loved the give and take in the relationship. The sex is stellar as Ms. Dane excels with her steamy erotic scenes. There is no kink in this story even if Maybe jokes about not being Vanilla. It is "spiced" Vanilla in my book. Quite tame yet still blazing hawt! The ending of this book is sweet, even if it leaves it a bit of a cliffhanger. Basically, Rachel and Maybe's parents pull a crazy stunt which may be resolved in the next book. I'm eagerly anticipating the next book in this new series already. This erotic romance is highly recommended to all romance readers.
*provided by NetGalley
January 14, 2018
***ARC provided by the author for a honest review***
Lauren Dane begins her new series Whiskey Sharp will having you laughing, crying, feeling awe and wanting to kick some behind. In the first book, Unraveled you will feel for Maybe, you will love Maybe and you will fall in love with Alexsei. In a word, you will be hooked.
Maybe is independent, outspoken and protective. Maybe has no issues telling you what is on her mind, yet to protect her sister, she lets some people speak to her in any which way. Why? For love, of course.
Alexsei is a gentleman, family oriented, protective and a softy. Alexsei will do anything in his power to protect Maybe.
When they give in, will Maybe be able to push her independence aside and let Alexsei in? Will Alexsei be able to protect Maybe from her past? Will Maybe stand up to those who treat her badly?
Lauren Dane has a new forever fan in me. Her writing is spectacular, she really knows how to keep you hooked. Alexsei and Maybe have such great chemistry, it’s amazing. These two cannot keep their hands to themselves it seems. Although, there were a few questions that were not answered, but it ends in a good place. Five stars.
Lauren Dane begins her new series Whiskey Sharp will having you laughing, crying, feeling awe and wanting to kick some behind. In the first book, Unraveled you will feel for Maybe, you will love Maybe and you will fall in love with Alexsei. In a word, you will be hooked.
Maybe is independent, outspoken and protective. Maybe has no issues telling you what is on her mind, yet to protect her sister, she lets some people speak to her in any which way. Why? For love, of course.
Alexsei is a gentleman, family oriented, protective and a softy. Alexsei will do anything in his power to protect Maybe.
When they give in, will Maybe be able to push her independence aside and let Alexsei in? Will Alexsei be able to protect Maybe from her past? Will Maybe stand up to those who treat her badly?
Lauren Dane has a new forever fan in me. Her writing is spectacular, she really knows how to keep you hooked. Alexsei and Maybe have such great chemistry, it’s amazing. These two cannot keep their hands to themselves it seems. Although, there were a few questions that were not answered, but it ends in a good place. Five stars.
September 1, 2017
3.25 stars
A copy was provided by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I wanted to read this book because Lauren Dane's contemporary romances are basically an insta-read for me, and I have reread most of them multiple times. She generally writes strong unabashedly sexual heroines, wonderful friendship groups/family/chosen family, complex heroes, and has a lovely way with light D/s. Her heroines (and sometimes her heroes) often have trauma histories, which are part of the story but not central in it, and generally woven into the story in ways that feel respectful and complex, without handwaving them away.
This book hits many of those marks, and for the first third of the story, I reveled in the familiarity of Dane's style and worldbuilding and the way she sets up stories and draws character. This book has a couple references to characters from other books, which made me grin. That kind of thing is part of what I enjoy about reading so much of an author's work.
The hero's family is just wonderful and complex and was one of my favorite things about this book. The heroine is very strong and unabashedly sexual and also has these hints of vulnerability that were lovely. I adored her so much. This book also shines in its depiction of the workplace setting for the romance, I loved the way the barber shop was described, the slow burn of their connection at work, and the moment when they decide to really go for each other. I also loved how much of the romance happened at work, the ways we saw their connection grow in that setting.
The heroine is a trauma survivor, and is currently being harmed by her abusive parents. This isn't only abuse in the past, its also very present tense, and that shifts how the story feels. It doesn't feel like a hopeful narrative about a survivor reclaiming her life and finding love and support, it feels like a character who is abused all throughout the story and barely chooses to take steps to protect herself til the very end. The support of the hero, her workplace, the family that adopted her as a kid and that adopted her as an adult, none of that feels nearly as hopeful, because its part of a life where she is still being harmed. It makes this a very different kind of narrative than the others I've read by this author. A darker, less hopeful narrative, one that feels very weighed down by the abuse.
I wanted to root for them as a couple, as I do think they are good for each other and I did enjoy some of those moments in the story. I had a hard time because with how dark the story felt, because of the continuing abuse, and how it was a shadow over the story for almost all of it. It made it more a painful read than an enjoyable one. I did really like the ways that the heroine is shown grappling with whether certain aspects of the hero were signs that he might be like her abuser. That felt like such a real and important aspect of romance for a survivor, one that resonated a lot for me.
This was exacerbated by the ending. In other work by this author, whatever present day threat that existed related to the trauma gets resolved to a place where as a reader it feels like the heroine is safe. This book does not do that. It ends with This ending, and how fast the story resolves after a confrontation with the abuser, left me feeling very unsettled as a reader, moreso than with a usual cliffhanger. I am supposed to be happy for the couple together, but instead am just worried about the heroine & her sister.
The sex scenes felt less joyous and held less heat for me than some of Dane's other work, though the chemistry between the MCs was really glorious. I think they may have been overshadowed by the darkness in the story. I was still reeling from the big conflict near the end, and the last sex scene felt off for me as I was reeling.
I was troubled by the way the sister was represented. She is a survivor of intense trauma, one that changed the direction of her life, and she clearly has PTSD and there are vague references to mobility issues as a result. She is frequently framed as disabled and needing support, and often as someone who needs protection and cannot make independent choices. This is challenged somewhat, but even though the heroine recognizes the importance of her independence, she also struggles to support it and often wants to make choices for her and act as a shield for her, and put her needs first. This kind of dynamic is loaded because she's disabled, in a way that it might not be otherwise, and it made me uncomfortable to read, as a disabled person with PTSD. This book is a lot about protection, and recognizing the need to step back and let people make their own choices, even if you want to shield them, but this theme feels a bit underdeveloped in this particular relationship. (It is better developed in the romance arc.) I am glad to know that the sister gets her own book (Jagged), and from the blurb on the author's website, that book is a lot about her insisting on independence.
This is a bit of a departure from what I've come to expect in Dane's contemporary work, particularly in the level of darkness of the story, and the ending, and for me as a reader, the book suffered some for it. It may partly be due to my knowing her contemporary backlist so well; for a reader coming in prepared or without expectations, it may work quite well.
Trigger Warnings:
A copy was provided by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I wanted to read this book because Lauren Dane's contemporary romances are basically an insta-read for me, and I have reread most of them multiple times. She generally writes strong unabashedly sexual heroines, wonderful friendship groups/family/chosen family, complex heroes, and has a lovely way with light D/s. Her heroines (and sometimes her heroes) often have trauma histories, which are part of the story but not central in it, and generally woven into the story in ways that feel respectful and complex, without handwaving them away.
This book hits many of those marks, and for the first third of the story, I reveled in the familiarity of Dane's style and worldbuilding and the way she sets up stories and draws character. This book has a couple references to characters from other books, which made me grin. That kind of thing is part of what I enjoy about reading so much of an author's work.
The hero's family is just wonderful and complex and was one of my favorite things about this book. The heroine is very strong and unabashedly sexual and also has these hints of vulnerability that were lovely. I adored her so much. This book also shines in its depiction of the workplace setting for the romance, I loved the way the barber shop was described, the slow burn of their connection at work, and the moment when they decide to really go for each other. I also loved how much of the romance happened at work, the ways we saw their connection grow in that setting.
The heroine is a trauma survivor, and is currently being harmed by her abusive parents. This isn't only abuse in the past, its also very present tense, and that shifts how the story feels. It doesn't feel like a hopeful narrative about a survivor reclaiming her life and finding love and support, it feels like a character who is abused all throughout the story and barely chooses to take steps to protect herself til the very end. The support of the hero, her workplace, the family that adopted her as a kid and that adopted her as an adult, none of that feels nearly as hopeful, because its part of a life where she is still being harmed. It makes this a very different kind of narrative than the others I've read by this author. A darker, less hopeful narrative, one that feels very weighed down by the abuse.
I wanted to root for them as a couple, as I do think they are good for each other and I did enjoy some of those moments in the story. I had a hard time because with how dark the story felt, because of the continuing abuse, and how it was a shadow over the story for almost all of it. It made it more a painful read than an enjoyable one. I did really like the ways that the heroine is shown grappling with whether certain aspects of the hero were signs that he might be like her abuser. That felt like such a real and important aspect of romance for a survivor, one that resonated a lot for me.
This was exacerbated by the ending. In other work by this author, whatever present day threat that existed related to the trauma gets resolved to a place where as a reader it feels like the heroine is safe. This book does not do that. It ends with This ending, and how fast the story resolves after a confrontation with the abuser, left me feeling very unsettled as a reader, moreso than with a usual cliffhanger. I am supposed to be happy for the couple together, but instead am just worried about the heroine & her sister.
The sex scenes felt less joyous and held less heat for me than some of Dane's other work, though the chemistry between the MCs was really glorious. I think they may have been overshadowed by the darkness in the story. I was still reeling from the big conflict near the end, and the last sex scene felt off for me as I was reeling.
I was troubled by the way the sister was represented. She is a survivor of intense trauma, one that changed the direction of her life, and she clearly has PTSD and there are vague references to mobility issues as a result. She is frequently framed as disabled and needing support, and often as someone who needs protection and cannot make independent choices. This is challenged somewhat, but even though the heroine recognizes the importance of her independence, she also struggles to support it and often wants to make choices for her and act as a shield for her, and put her needs first. This kind of dynamic is loaded because she's disabled, in a way that it might not be otherwise, and it made me uncomfortable to read, as a disabled person with PTSD. This book is a lot about protection, and recognizing the need to step back and let people make their own choices, even if you want to shield them, but this theme feels a bit underdeveloped in this particular relationship. (It is better developed in the romance arc.) I am glad to know that the sister gets her own book (Jagged), and from the blurb on the author's website, that book is a lot about her insisting on independence.
This is a bit of a departure from what I've come to expect in Dane's contemporary work, particularly in the level of darkness of the story, and the ending, and for me as a reader, the book suffered some for it. It may partly be due to my knowing her contemporary backlist so well; for a reader coming in prepared or without expectations, it may work quite well.
Trigger Warnings:
January 31, 2018
Lauren Dane begins her new series Whiskey Sharp with the Sisters Maybe and Rachel Dolan. This is Maybe’s story. And it features her love story with sexy and sensual Alexsei Petrov. Actually this story features him, the sisters and their small group of friends and Alexsei’s family in this emotionally packed new series. In the first book,Unraveled you will fall in love with Maybe and you will feel for her. Maybe is independent, outspoken and protective. She protects her sister fiercely and doesn’t have a problem speaking her mind. Alexsei is a gentleman, family oriented, protective and a big ole teddy bear. Alexsei will do anything to protect his Maybe. Maybe ‘s life has been so angst ridden as the hated youngest child. Her parents use their words to cut their child so violently and wound her to the point that she bleeds out without no one being the wiser. But Maybe is a survivor – she was able to pick heself back up and make her way due to the love she was given by her aunt and uncle. There are things about her father that make me very uneasy. I do not want to say because it brings spoilers out but I would suggest definitely reading and drawing your own conclusions about the man…he is pure evil in my mind. Thank Goodness for Alexsei. He is such a good man, giving support and love to show how much she is wanted and needed in his and his family’s life. Oh and the chemistry and steam between this couple is thru the roof insane hot. There is no added kink in the story but it is super spicy and hot. Also we get alittle of the older sister’s story which is the next book in the series so I cannot wait to read her story. Maybe then we will learn more about this dysfunctional family. This was a brilliant story and I can't wait for Vic and Rachel's book!!
My Rating: 4.7 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
My Rating: 4.7 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
December 19, 2017
I am and always have been a massive fan of Lauren Dane, I love how she can makes us feel apart of her words with the creativeness of her words and setting she creates.
Whiskey Sharp is simply fantastic, I loved Maybe and Alexsei, there relationship was already set in stone with a beautiful friendship they had already created, with them already working together. I just have nothing but good words, just sitting here reminding myself how much I loved the characters, and Alexsei Russian family. Maybe and her sister are beautiful, there parents are douches, but you will get to that when you read this one.
You can bet yourself a dollar, that you will be addicted to this story, its addictive, sexy and not only that it'll make you feel.
Arc received for an honest review, I am really looking forward to Rachel story and too pick this series up and add them to my book shelves.
Whiskey Sharp is simply fantastic, I loved Maybe and Alexsei, there relationship was already set in stone with a beautiful friendship they had already created, with them already working together. I just have nothing but good words, just sitting here reminding myself how much I loved the characters, and Alexsei Russian family. Maybe and her sister are beautiful, there parents are douches, but you will get to that when you read this one.
You can bet yourself a dollar, that you will be addicted to this story, its addictive, sexy and not only that it'll make you feel.
Arc received for an honest review, I am really looking forward to Rachel story and too pick this series up and add them to my book shelves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2018
I am not sure if I have ever read a romance with less romantic conflict, and that isn't a complaint. Super glad the awful family stayed awful, because that was too much to come back from.
March 9, 2018
** 3.5 stars **
January 31, 2018
3.5 stars
I love everything that had to do with Maybe and Alexsei. They are wonderfully well-rounded characters, who are real people and highly relatable. I adore their interactions and the sizzling chemistry between them. Their journey to love was funny, sweet, and oh-so sexy. 4.5 stars.
I didn't love the storyline with the parents. It overpowered the book. They were hateful with no redeeming qualities whatsoever. Their abuse of Maybe was irrational and unforgiveable. I don’t like that in romance. Another thing I didn't like was the cliffhanger regarding said storyline. For this aspect of the book, I give 2.5 stars.
I love Lauren Dane. Her heroines are often badasses. I will follow this series, but I will have to see some changes in the way she handles the parents. I just want them to go away, to be honest.
NetGalley provided me the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I love everything that had to do with Maybe and Alexsei. They are wonderfully well-rounded characters, who are real people and highly relatable. I adore their interactions and the sizzling chemistry between them. Their journey to love was funny, sweet, and oh-so sexy. 4.5 stars.
I didn't love the storyline with the parents. It overpowered the book. They were hateful with no redeeming qualities whatsoever. Their abuse of Maybe was irrational and unforgiveable. I don’t like that in romance. Another thing I didn't like was the cliffhanger regarding said storyline. For this aspect of the book, I give 2.5 stars.
I love Lauren Dane. Her heroines are often badasses. I will follow this series, but I will have to see some changes in the way she handles the parents. I just want them to go away, to be honest.
NetGalley provided me the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 14, 2018
I enjoyed this contemporary romance with the interesting backdrop of a barbershop/whiskey bar. The main characters, Dolan and Alexsei, were ones that I really liked. I enjoyed their romance. The storyline was interesting and held my attention all the way through. I am looking forward to more in the series. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a copy of the book in return for an honest review.
March 22, 2018
I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
3 Stars
I used to read Lauren Dane back in the day, and I was curious enough to want to try out this series. I always found it easy to fall into the story- addictive.
I need to be honest, and this has nothing to do with the plot itself, I had a hard time in the beginning of the novel connecting. By 25%, I still wasn't invested whatsoever. It felt as if there was a book prior, as if the reader should understand who these people were, and their past experiences. Not only was I slightly confused, hoping a little light would be shed soon, for some odd reason I was reading the novel inside my head in a flat tone- both narrators sounding exactly the same, the diction and author's voice melding into the same tone, which was amazing as one had an accent and was bilingual. Their inner monologues truly were similar.
Frankly, I wasn't hooked, and I struggled to connect. One of the biggest issues was the heroine's name. Maybe. While this is cute, it's a nightmare when reading, especially when a sentence begins with Maybe (not her name, but the actual word MAYBE) this causes confusion, with the reader torn from the story to translate the true meaning of the sentence. Through 300+ pages, my brain never did the transition of the word MAYBE being a name, especially when the word 'maybe' was used in its natural context.
Now onward to the review.
The first quarter of the book is told, not shown, with a lot of backstory given. It wasn't an organic flow where the reader learned alongside the narrators. The narrators had a large backstory to tell, and they inner monologued it all in a storytelling fashion.
Maybe once said something about a kidnapping, in a way like I (the reader) should know what she meant by that (while inside Maybe's mind). Offhanded, "After the kidnapping." I had no idea what she meant, and another large portion of the novel flew by and I still didn't know what she meant by that. Same with what happened to Rachel.
This type of writing style was not what I remember Lauren Dane writing. The ease and flow wasn't there, combined with the stumbling block of her name.
I loved the setting of Whiskey Sharp, a barbershop that serves alcohol in the evening. Very hipster and innovated. The Russian family. Alexsei is gruff, exacting, an alpha male, and Dane paints quite the picture of the man inside readers' minds.
Maybe was meant to be fun, chatty, yet her inner monologue was dry and hopeless- it didn't mesh together. Is she a survivor? An eternal victim? A martyr? Or the chatty fun girl?
Maybe and Alexsei have known each other for two years, so the readers miss out on two years' worth of flirty, bonding interaction. They're already friends, already know each other- however, the reader knows neither of them, so we miss out on that 'learning' period as they get to know each other with the reader along for the ride. The reader is *told*
Maybe's family was an added frustration that completely overpowered the entire novel, especially the romance- why they loved Rachel and not Maybe, and it dragged without explanation for the bulk of the novel. Maybe acted as a martyr with low self-esteem. If Rachel truly loved Maybe, she would have told her parents it's either both of us or neither- you don't treat my sister like you do. So I lost respect for Rachel for allowing this toxic dynamic to continue on (Rachel was the oldest sister, watching her parents be abusive to her sister in the now. Yes, Rachel is fighting her own demons, but I will not give her a pass as being an enabler when it comes to abusing the one person who puts her first) Maybe was always self-sacrificing herself for Rachel. "We'll go to Thanksgiving so you can spend time with the very people who are abusive to me." I'm sorry, but that's illogical, and it made me dislike Rachel too, no matter what has happened to her. A survivor would not condone victimizing others, especially when we're told Rachel and Maybe put each other first, yet it's shown as Rachel using her past as an excuse not to actually put Maybe first.
I felt as if there were many threads being shown, with the focus not on Maybe and Alexsei, and their relationship suffered from it. It was chaotic and all over the place as future books were set up, as if those books were more important than the one being told. The narrators were being overshadowed by others' stories.
There was so much going on beneath the surface and in the past, that I honestly believe the book should have been written earlier, so the reader could have *experienced* it all, instead of just being *told* what happened. Or, perhaps, Rachel's book should have come first, so Maybe could have had a story to call her own during her narration.
This being the romance genre, the focus is generally on the romance, the couple as they go against the odds. Even the steamy scenes felt tucked in there- the chemistry the couple felt outside the bedroom didn't transfer to inside the bedroom. They knew each other for two years, years we didn't see as a reader, and it was a foregone conclusion they would get together, so the author concentrated on setting up future books instead.
With everything going on with the past and present abuse, Rachel's issues, Alexsei's story with the ex and the family just felt inconsequential. He and his family are absolutely perfection (quite literally) and Maybe's family is the worst (quite literally) with no balance.
Overshadowed is the best word for it all.
This was Rachel's prequel, as told by Maybe.
The book just... ends. A cliffhanger. Nothing has concluded. But, get this... it's new narrators, when Maybe's story is incomplete. Rachel. To be honest, I have the next in the series, but I'm not sure if I care to read it.
3 Stars
I used to read Lauren Dane back in the day, and I was curious enough to want to try out this series. I always found it easy to fall into the story- addictive.
I need to be honest, and this has nothing to do with the plot itself, I had a hard time in the beginning of the novel connecting. By 25%, I still wasn't invested whatsoever. It felt as if there was a book prior, as if the reader should understand who these people were, and their past experiences. Not only was I slightly confused, hoping a little light would be shed soon, for some odd reason I was reading the novel inside my head in a flat tone- both narrators sounding exactly the same, the diction and author's voice melding into the same tone, which was amazing as one had an accent and was bilingual. Their inner monologues truly were similar.
Frankly, I wasn't hooked, and I struggled to connect. One of the biggest issues was the heroine's name. Maybe. While this is cute, it's a nightmare when reading, especially when a sentence begins with Maybe (not her name, but the actual word MAYBE) this causes confusion, with the reader torn from the story to translate the true meaning of the sentence. Through 300+ pages, my brain never did the transition of the word MAYBE being a name, especially when the word 'maybe' was used in its natural context.
Now onward to the review.
The first quarter of the book is told, not shown, with a lot of backstory given. It wasn't an organic flow where the reader learned alongside the narrators. The narrators had a large backstory to tell, and they inner monologued it all in a storytelling fashion.
Maybe once said something about a kidnapping, in a way like I (the reader) should know what she meant by that (while inside Maybe's mind). Offhanded, "After the kidnapping." I had no idea what she meant, and another large portion of the novel flew by and I still didn't know what she meant by that. Same with what happened to Rachel.
This type of writing style was not what I remember Lauren Dane writing. The ease and flow wasn't there, combined with the stumbling block of her name.
I loved the setting of Whiskey Sharp, a barbershop that serves alcohol in the evening. Very hipster and innovated. The Russian family. Alexsei is gruff, exacting, an alpha male, and Dane paints quite the picture of the man inside readers' minds.
Maybe was meant to be fun, chatty, yet her inner monologue was dry and hopeless- it didn't mesh together. Is she a survivor? An eternal victim? A martyr? Or the chatty fun girl?
Maybe and Alexsei have known each other for two years, so the readers miss out on two years' worth of flirty, bonding interaction. They're already friends, already know each other- however, the reader knows neither of them, so we miss out on that 'learning' period as they get to know each other with the reader along for the ride. The reader is *told*
Maybe's family was an added frustration that completely overpowered the entire novel, especially the romance- why they loved Rachel and not Maybe, and it dragged without explanation for the bulk of the novel. Maybe acted as a martyr with low self-esteem. If Rachel truly loved Maybe, she would have told her parents it's either both of us or neither- you don't treat my sister like you do. So I lost respect for Rachel for allowing this toxic dynamic to continue on (Rachel was the oldest sister, watching her parents be abusive to her sister in the now. Yes, Rachel is fighting her own demons, but I will not give her a pass as being an enabler when it comes to abusing the one person who puts her first) Maybe was always self-sacrificing herself for Rachel. "We'll go to Thanksgiving so you can spend time with the very people who are abusive to me." I'm sorry, but that's illogical, and it made me dislike Rachel too, no matter what has happened to her. A survivor would not condone victimizing others, especially when we're told Rachel and Maybe put each other first, yet it's shown as Rachel using her past as an excuse not to actually put Maybe first.
I felt as if there were many threads being shown, with the focus not on Maybe and Alexsei, and their relationship suffered from it. It was chaotic and all over the place as future books were set up, as if those books were more important than the one being told. The narrators were being overshadowed by others' stories.
There was so much going on beneath the surface and in the past, that I honestly believe the book should have been written earlier, so the reader could have *experienced* it all, instead of just being *told* what happened. Or, perhaps, Rachel's book should have come first, so Maybe could have had a story to call her own during her narration.
This being the romance genre, the focus is generally on the romance, the couple as they go against the odds. Even the steamy scenes felt tucked in there- the chemistry the couple felt outside the bedroom didn't transfer to inside the bedroom. They knew each other for two years, years we didn't see as a reader, and it was a foregone conclusion they would get together, so the author concentrated on setting up future books instead.
With everything going on with the past and present abuse, Rachel's issues, Alexsei's story with the ex and the family just felt inconsequential. He and his family are absolutely perfection (quite literally) and Maybe's family is the worst (quite literally) with no balance.
Overshadowed is the best word for it all.
This was Rachel's prequel, as told by Maybe.
The book just... ends. A cliffhanger. Nothing has concluded. But, get this... it's new narrators, when Maybe's story is incomplete. Rachel. To be honest, I have the next in the series, but I'm not sure if I care to read it.
March 5, 2019
2.5 stars rounded down.
Maybe - The most horrible name to ever horrible.
Maybe. The first thing that happened is that my read came to a screeching halt whenever this word was capitalized. Which is like a billion times.
Note to Authors: using words like "maybe" as a name is a TERRIBLE IDEA.
I swear. Between not being able to concentrate AND the whole "momma baby, poppa maybe" I was thinking that Maybe wasn't her dad's kid. I was wrong but that was the thought.
So. I wanted to DNF this about 60% in (because bored)...but the subplot with Maybe's parents forced me to skim ahead.
Damn! Maybe's parents were pretty close to the most horrible. I mean, the dad who kept his daughter in the basement and raped her for 20 years takes the cake...and the Turpin Family is #2...but this one seems to be running hard to get that #1 spot. Basically, Maybe's parents (esp her dad) hated her for...reasons. IDK the real reasons but reading between some of the lines gave me the impression he wanted to have sex with her therefore she was a whore. (not that that is said)
Maybe's parents and their terrible behavior SAVED this book for me (while causing heartburn). I also totally skimmed all of book 2 just to get more parent info.
Maybe - The most horrible name to ever horrible.
Maybe. The first thing that happened is that my read came to a screeching halt whenever this word was capitalized. Which is like a billion times.
Note to Authors: using words like "maybe" as a name is a TERRIBLE IDEA.
I swear. Between not being able to concentrate AND the whole "momma baby, poppa maybe" I was thinking that Maybe wasn't her dad's kid. I was wrong but that was the thought.
So. I wanted to DNF this about 60% in (because bored)...but the subplot with Maybe's parents forced me to skim ahead.
Damn! Maybe's parents were pretty close to the most horrible. I mean, the dad who kept his daughter in the basement and raped her for 20 years takes the cake...and the Turpin Family is #2...but this one seems to be running hard to get that #1 spot. Basically, Maybe's parents (esp her dad) hated her for...reasons. IDK the real reasons but reading between some of the lines gave me the impression he wanted to have sex with her therefore she was a whore. (not that that is said)
Maybe's parents and their terrible behavior SAVED this book for me (while causing heartburn). I also totally skimmed all of book 2 just to get more parent info.
March 5, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
On many levels I really enjoyed this book - but I cannot believe that the author thought it was a good idea to call the lead "Maybe". Really it was a significant problem for me - and even the reason she is called that is not very funny. I read fairly quickly, and having to determine whether the Maybe at the beginning of a sentence was the person or just Maybe became incredibly annoying, as it slowed everything down. Trying to discount that annoyance, I also felt that I was late to the party and had missed a number of previous books. Gregori and Wren; Cora, Finlay and their mother; Rachel's life in the FBI; all of these seemed to be background knowledge that I felt I was missing.
I liked the Russian family angle, the importance of food and family. It set up the differences with the situation that Maybe and Rachel faced with their parents. I was very confused by the level of support that it was inferred that Rachel needed, yet she seemed to be functioning fine. But I could understand how protective Maybe was, even if it was unhealthy. Whiskey Sharp is a great idea for a venue, and the scenes in the Bar/barbershop gave a good vibe to the place.
Alexei was pretty much perfect, in almost every way - Rada was maybe his one failing, and the use of Russian in front of Maybe. I appreciated the care he took, and how he recognised the needs she had and held himself back too.
We are given some pretty big hints as to who's story we will get next, and I do hope that Rachel's story makes more sense of Maybe's because the story ends inconclusively in many ways, other than her relationship.
On many levels I really enjoyed this book - but I cannot believe that the author thought it was a good idea to call the lead "Maybe". Really it was a significant problem for me - and even the reason she is called that is not very funny. I read fairly quickly, and having to determine whether the Maybe at the beginning of a sentence was the person or just Maybe became incredibly annoying, as it slowed everything down. Trying to discount that annoyance, I also felt that I was late to the party and had missed a number of previous books. Gregori and Wren; Cora, Finlay and their mother; Rachel's life in the FBI; all of these seemed to be background knowledge that I felt I was missing.
I liked the Russian family angle, the importance of food and family. It set up the differences with the situation that Maybe and Rachel faced with their parents. I was very confused by the level of support that it was inferred that Rachel needed, yet she seemed to be functioning fine. But I could understand how protective Maybe was, even if it was unhealthy. Whiskey Sharp is a great idea for a venue, and the scenes in the Bar/barbershop gave a good vibe to the place.
Alexei was pretty much perfect, in almost every way - Rada was maybe his one failing, and the use of Russian in front of Maybe. I appreciated the care he took, and how he recognised the needs she had and held himself back too.
We are given some pretty big hints as to who's story we will get next, and I do hope that Rachel's story makes more sense of Maybe's because the story ends inconclusively in many ways, other than her relationship.
February 19, 2018
It was an enjoyable book, made me spend a few hours in the train. But I have to admit doit I cared more about what was going on with the secondary characters than with Maybe & Alexeï. Like I ended using skimming through most of their story...and the exfiancee drama was really useless
August 6, 2019
Why did I wait so long to pick up this series? I love Lauren Dane and I have read and re-read many of her series again and again.
Maybe and Alexsei are fantastic and I loved the dynamic the whole setting and timeline of this book. We really got to know these characters and what and who they are. I loved the dynamic of Maybe and her sister. Oh her sister I hope she is next I want to know she gets a HEA.
I loved the narration, Simone does the Russian accent so well. I just loved this book.
Maybe and Alexsei are fantastic and I loved the dynamic the whole setting and timeline of this book. We really got to know these characters and what and who they are. I loved the dynamic of Maybe and her sister. Oh her sister I hope she is next I want to know she gets a HEA.
I loved the narration, Simone does the Russian accent so well. I just loved this book.
Read
January 19, 2018Will have to try this again some other time. Main characters are great, lots of chemistry, but the backstory for the sister is one that I try to avoid. Meh.
March 10, 2018
So Alexsei is the owner of this really cool new style approach of a barber shop, and in walks in Maybe.
She (Yeah ~SHE) has a major crush on him but he's @that time in a relationship and thus maintains a professional working relationship w/Maybe.
Eventuaaaaaly he bcomes single and Maybe decides to make her move.
They start to hit it off and I wanted to keep reading but it got too convoluted trying to read a sentence and define whether I was reading it as a noun or an adverb.
IF there would have been more chemistry btween the couple MAYBE I would have continued...
My introduction to Lauren Dane was back with the Brown family
!
I believe I read most of those so I was Xcited to read
bcause it sounded interesting...Now I regretfully have to add it to my DNF shelf (which did not Xsist bfore).
Will i b picking it up in the future?
Again MAYBE
She (Yeah ~SHE) has a major crush on him but he's @that time in a relationship and thus maintains a professional working relationship w/Maybe.
Eventuaaaaaly he bcomes single and Maybe decides to make her move.
They start to hit it off and I wanted to keep reading but it got too convoluted trying to read a sentence and define whether I was reading it as a noun or an adverb.
IF there would have been more chemistry btween the couple MAYBE I would have continued...
My introduction to Lauren Dane was back with the Brown family
! I believe I read most of those so I was Xcited to read
bcause it sounded interesting...Now I regretfully have to add it to my DNF shelf (which did not Xsist bfore).Will i b picking it up in the future?
Again MAYBE
February 3, 2018
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I was so excited to start this series. First of all, it's a new Lauren Dane contemporary and that alone had me salivating for it. And second, the setting for this sounded just so cool and sexy! It's a vintage barber shop that turns into a whiskey bar for happy hour basically. How cool and fun?!
From the beginning I loved the atmosphere of this story and I loved the setting just as much as I was expecting to. Another thing that was an immediate hit with me is the fact that Maybe and Alexsei work together so it's kind of a workplace romance. What rubbed me the wrong way from almost page one, though, was the heroine's name. No, I just couldn't get behind Maybe. I know it's a nickname and there's an explanation for it, but everytime her name is mentioned it would throw me off and got on my nerves. As much as I was trying to not let it bother me.
I really liked Maybe's bubbly personality. She won't stop talking and comes across as a genuinely nice person, so I was a fan of that. The story opens with Maybe getting the job at Whiskey Sharp and quickly fast forwards a couple of years so I feel like I was also missing the struggle and build up of the connection. By the time we get to see what's going on I felt like it was almost a given that they were going to work out from the first time they touched and I found it made the story a little boring in terms of the romance.
There's some added tensions from both of their pasts, some of it while serious I found annoying because Maybe had let things go too far without speaking up so she really made me want to slap her around a bit. But at the same time I also felt bad for her situation and how she had to grow up and it made me appreciate the new family she has and the support system she was able to find.
One of my favorite things about this story, and something that Ms. Dane does very well time and time again, is the feeling of family. I loved Alexsei's family, his meddling aunt, just about everyone! And then there was also Rada, the ex fiance, who I have a feeling is being molded to be the Raven of this series. So I was ok with feeling annoyed by her character and I'm looking forward to seeing her character developed more throughout the series.
Overall, UNRAVELED felt like a slow moving and easy romance. The main couple has a nice chemistry but I never felt like it spiked for me and I maybe even found it to be dragging. But I was interested in the story and ultimately will continue reading this series. I'm looking forward to the next book about Maybe's sister.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
December 31, 2017
I have loved Lauren Dane for a few years now and although I love all the genres she writes in, her contemporary books are my absolute favorite, namely her Ink & Chrome series. But in all honesty, they might have met their match in the Whiskey Sharp series. Good Lord did I love this book. It was just an amazing amazing portrayal of two people, Alexsei and Maybe and their love story. I loved their chemistry, banter, friendship and families and honestly could not get enough enough of their story.
What happens when Maybe Dolan, a bright, loud and free spirited woman decides that she and her silent, broody, alpha and commanding boss, Alexsei Petrov, need to finally hook up and cross the line after two years of friendship and dancing around each other? Pure fireworks folks!! I absolutely adored this friends to lovers romance. This author does a fantastic job portraying the organic transition of Alexei and Maybe as they both realize they want to take that step crossing the line into uncharted territory.
Gahhh!! All the feels and butterflies in this book were magnificent!! I loved Maybe's strength and dedication to her sister. She supported those she loved and always placed their well being above her own. The author made this character feel so real and vivid that I wanted my very own Maybe as a best friend!! And Alexsei!!! How amazing is he?! Lord. He had style and a commanding personality but was such a mush inside. I absolutely loved him so much and the way he cherished and nurtured Maybe when she needed him. He really was the most amazing guy and this novel was so fantastic. I never wanted it to end. All in all this was a brilliant story and I can't wait for Vic and Rachel's book!!
I would like to thank Netgalley and Harlequin for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
What happens when Maybe Dolan, a bright, loud and free spirited woman decides that she and her silent, broody, alpha and commanding boss, Alexsei Petrov, need to finally hook up and cross the line after two years of friendship and dancing around each other? Pure fireworks folks!! I absolutely adored this friends to lovers romance. This author does a fantastic job portraying the organic transition of Alexei and Maybe as they both realize they want to take that step crossing the line into uncharted territory.
Gahhh!! All the feels and butterflies in this book were magnificent!! I loved Maybe's strength and dedication to her sister. She supported those she loved and always placed their well being above her own. The author made this character feel so real and vivid that I wanted my very own Maybe as a best friend!! And Alexsei!!! How amazing is he?! Lord. He had style and a commanding personality but was such a mush inside. I absolutely loved him so much and the way he cherished and nurtured Maybe when she needed him. He really was the most amazing guy and this novel was so fantastic. I never wanted it to end. All in all this was a brilliant story and I can't wait for Vic and Rachel's book!!
I would like to thank Netgalley and Harlequin for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
February 11, 2018
Easy read for a lazy Sunday. I found the differing family dynamic/ background plot more interesting than the foreground romance. It just seemed like a foregone conclusion the two would get together, I didn't feel like they 'found' each other or really worked toward their relationship.
After a rocky beginning with some early books (which ugh, I hated) I have come to really enjoy this author's voice and have read a lot of her bibliography. That actually works against my reception of this book in a way because I found the heroine so familiar. This author writes this sort of heroine -- strong-minded, very self actualized, frank, pretty confident-- very well. Which is what draws me because I enjoy this type of heroine. But, contrarily, I felt like she was somewhat interchangeable with some other heroines written by this author. Only the name and background has changed, but the personality is the same.
That said, I'll be reading the next one. Like I said, I enjoyed the background plot and this was ends with some threads up in the air -- not cliffhanger, but there is more to explore with this group. The couple is HFN and there are some more plot elements to be explored with the supporting characters.
After a rocky beginning with some early books (which ugh, I hated) I have come to really enjoy this author's voice and have read a lot of her bibliography. That actually works against my reception of this book in a way because I found the heroine so familiar. This author writes this sort of heroine -- strong-minded, very self actualized, frank, pretty confident-- very well. Which is what draws me because I enjoy this type of heroine. But, contrarily, I felt like she was somewhat interchangeable with some other heroines written by this author. Only the name and background has changed, but the personality is the same.
That said, I'll be reading the next one. Like I said, I enjoyed the background plot and this was ends with some threads up in the air -- not cliffhanger, but there is more to explore with this group. The couple is HFN and there are some more plot elements to be explored with the supporting characters.
February 4, 2018
2 stars - Contemporary Romance
This was an okay read but it dragged for me. Also, there are some very annoying secondary characters (the heroine's father and the hero's ex-girlfriend) that had way too much presence in the story.
This was an okay read but it dragged for me. Also, there are some very annoying secondary characters (the heroine's father and the hero's ex-girlfriend) that had way too much presence in the story.
June 17, 2018
Reviewed for AudioGals.
https://www.audiogals.net/2018/04/unr...
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