This is the fifth book in the Iron Horse MC series, with Lyric and Hustler's story . . .
Lyric I've spent my entire life on my parent's isolated religious compound, sheltered and cut off from the rest of the world. It left me ill prepared to face the evil that invaded my home, and after a horrific encounter with demons masquerading as men, I fled. Some might say that my refuge is even worse than the prison I grew up in, but the men and women of the Iron Horse MC have been better to me than my own family. Unfortunately, the trouble I thought I left behind is still hunting me for reasons I don’t understand. Hustler has been assigned to be my guardian, but to my foolish heart he may be the biggest threat of all. Everything inside of me tells me we belong together, that I’ve been put on this earth to be his, but he insists we’ll never be anything more than friends.
Hustler For as long as I can remember the Iron Horse MC has been my family. I've fought, bled, and sacrificed a piece of my soul for my brothers, but I've been set up, labeled a traitor by those I trusted most. My only hope comes in the form of a naïve young girl I've been tasked with protecting, a woman who’s haunted both my heart and dreams. She’s everything good and beautiful in this world, and while I’ll never allow her to tarnish herself by loving me, I’ll do everything I can to make sure she survives. *-*
Author's notes: ~ This unconventional MC series is one that SHOULD be read in series order, for the most enjoyment . . .
~ This book, "Exquisite Innocence" is the first part of two, telling the story of Lyric and Hustler, with a 'Happy For Now' ending. Their HEA follows in "Exquisite Sin", the sixth, and final book in the series.
Iron Horse MC series Reading order: Book 1: Exquisite Trouble (Swan & Smoke, Pt #1) Book 2: Exquisite Danger (Swan & Smoke, Pt #2) Book 3: Exquisite Redemption (Sarah & Beach, Pt #1) Book 4: Exquisite Karma (Sarah & Beach, Pt #2) Book 5: Exquisite Innocence (Lyric & Hustler, Pt #1) Book 6: Exquisite Sin (Lyric & Hustler, Pt #2)
Ann is Queen of the Castle to her wonderful husband and three sons in the mountains of West Virginia. In her past lives she's been an Import Broker, a Communications Specialist, a US Navy Civilian Contractor, a Bartender/Waitress, and an actor at the Michigan Renaissance Festival. She also spent a summer touring with the Grateful Dead(though she will deny to her children that it ever happened).
From a young age she's been fascinated by myths and fairytales, and the romance that often was the center of the story. As Ann grew older and her hormones kicked in, she discovered trashy romance novels. Great at first, but she soon grew tired of the endless stories with a big wonderful emotional buildup to really short and crappy sex. Never a big fan of purple prose, throbbing spears of fleshy pleasure and wet honey pots make her giggle, she sought out books that gave the sex scenes in the story just as much detail and plot as everything else-without using cringe worthy euphemisms. This led her to the wonderful world of Erotic Romance, and she's never looked back.
Now Ann spends her days trying to tune out cartoons playing in the background to get into her 'sexy space' and has learned to type one handed while soothing a cranky baby.
I had very high hopes for this one after reading all about Lyric and Hustler in all the other books. I was looking forward to seeing Lyric slowly come out of her sheltered little shell...
I had not expected her to go from a sheltered church girl to freaking porn star ... I mean she gave up the goods within the first chapter (no worries no virgin this time) and she was calling him "daddy" ...all the while asking him to "fill her" because she was so empty... Does that sound like a girl who grew up in a church commune and has never left ????
I think I am kind of done with this series because they don't really read as MC books for me anymore. This is just sex upon sex upon sex, and while I might be a "bad girl" who likes her steam... after reading 3 books in a row of girls getting wet at the drop of a head and guys getting hard whenever there is a bit of a strong wind...I am done.
I really had such high hopes for Lyric...it saddens me a bit that she is pretty much the same as Sarah and Swan....except for the extreme ass-kicking they did.
I might finish this series...since I don't like to leave things open...and this does end on a cliffy... But it could be some time befor I do. It could also be never ;)
Lyric knows she needs to leave home but her ailing Grandmother has kept her rooted in her religious compound. Lyric has seen the changes since the new pastor has taken over and they are not good, she would say they are close to dangerous. She gets a small break though when she attends her best friend Swan's wedding though and she meets Hustler. For just one night she and Hustler come together but it leaves them both feeling empty and wanting more.
Hustler knows he shouldn't have the one night with Lyric, he is a dangerous situation with someone trying to frame him. However the beautiful innocent woman gives him something that he has been longing for and it tears him apart to leave her but he has to. When Lyric finds herself in trouble, Hustler is there to rescue her but can he keep it purely professional?
I have been anxious to read this one since finishing Sarah's story and I was blown away. Wish it was not a two parter but none the less it was worth picking up before the next book comes out. If you follow the books you get to see a different side of Hustler which I was not expecting. Loved Lyric, she is a bit naive but at the same time she is strong in a way that has you admiring her even more.
Please don’t read because I’m seriously gonna spoil this!!!
ALL ALONG I KNEW VANCE WAS THE SO CALLED CHIEF! Even lyric was creeped out by him. She even said that he was acting a part! How did it not connect with her that he’s the guy Clint was speaking to.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This is a book was I was anticipating for awhile now. I don't know what it is about this series that I love, but I wait for the next book. All the build up to find out who is the cause of turmoil in this series.
Exquisite Innocence is the fifth book in the Iron Horse MC series by Ann Mayburn. Iron Horse is my second favourite MC series and each of the couples in it has a two book arc. Which means that this book ends on a bit of a cliff-hanger and the conclusion to Lyric and Hustler's story will be released at the end of 2017, according to the author's social media accounts.
This series is multi-faceted. It covers the outlaw MC world, the mafia world, and brings in the world of religious cults in this novel as well. It occurs in the same universe as the Submissive's Wish series by Mayburn and there is cross-over between the two, something I happen to love.
Lyric and Hustler are super easy to fall in love with, both as individuals and as a couple. They fit well together and come alive on the page. There was a preview to this in the final scenes of the previous books so the character pairing isn't a surprise, but I like how to the author expanded upon Lyric's backstory, and showed Hustler's more serious and dangerous side, which was previously hidden.
You knew it had to exist because he was an Enforcer for an outlaw motorcycle club, but he seems so goofy, chatty and sex-oriented that you forgot to be afraid, or at least that little bit on guard.
There are two main complaints that I had about Exquisite Innocence: that it wasn't long enough (this is a short novel at about 55,000 words) which is significantly shorter than the other books in this series. And, it has been painfully obvious to me since book one who the "baddie" is, undermining and betraying his club brothers and trying to kidnap the heroines left right and centre. The author confirms in this book but I was greatly hoping that this "suspense" arc would have resolved by now!
Mayburn's other main series (that I read at least) is the Submissive's Wish series about Russian Bratva Doms and their beloved subs, and I feel like that series is much more complicated, well-thought out and fulfilling as a reader. I feel like not as much time went into establishing the series arcing plot points in Iron Horse, because let's be honest. I'm not THAT perceptive and the majority of readers shouldn't have been able to figure it out so easily.
EI would have been much more enjoyable if I didn't feel that the author was stringing the reader along, trying to perpetuate the "Chief betrayal storyline" for several books longer than enjoyable. It also annoyed me when I downloaded my pre-order to find that the book was so short. As I mentioned above, it is significantly shorter than previous books in the same series and publication was delayed by a month. It makes me suspicious that the author had to split the book into two last minute (posting the update this summer on her social media accounts) rather than publishing one complete story. Most romance novels I read are more than 100 000 words, most actually push 130 000, so the length of the first half definitely does not necessitate splitting this book into two for me.
Unfortunately these issues took an otherwise great story and dropped it down to three stars, IMHO. Hopefully the next book makes up for it because Lyric and Hustler are a great couple and I want to see them have their time in the sun. I am also intrigued by several other characters and hope to read romance stories for Hulk, Sledge/Marley, and Tom Sokolov before the series concludes!
4.5 Waaaah! Just as I predicted (after the long wait and delayed release, mind you) this is a two-part somewhat cliffy-ish fantastic read. - pausing to reign in my petulance - Lyric and Hustler did not disappoint. This is what I'm looking for in a MC book people! Lots of nefarious activity and smut. I'd definitely recommend reading books 1-4 first because that a-hole "Cheif" is still effing up things. Oh, and (drumroll) his identity is revealed in the epilogue. (Thanks Ann!) Now, I'm all pumped and geared up loving that Lorenzo a.k.a Hustler a.k.a Daddy (as in DD/lg) is claiming his woman and I have to wait until f*cking December. It's not like I don't have shit to do from now until then, but I would gladly neglect my home, family, and other responsibilities to polish this off. Don't even get me started on the hints/bombs dropped towards the next couple the series. I'm so excited.
This series is one of my favourites from Ms. Mayburn. Usually motorcycle club themes don't pull me in. In this series, it works. Between the kinky shenanigans and the prepper family background, I'm completely vested in this story. Lyric's upbringing is pretty different - which happens when one is raised in a religious cult. Luckily, she is friends with Swan whom we met in the previous books.
To read the rest of my review, click on the image below to see it on my website on or after June 11, 2021.
“How ’bout you and me go someplace quiet and…talk.” “No, thank you.” I drew farther away from him, my internal alarms going off like the clanging of church bells. “I insist.” He leaned closer still and my heart thundered. “In fact, I won’t take no for an answer.” “Thankfully, I was saved from my inability to speak by a strong, tanned hand grasping mine and a velvety deep voice saying, “Come on, sweetheart, you promised me a dance.” I most certainly hadn’t promised anyone anything, but I was thankful for the excuse to get away from the older man, the vibe coming off of him making the skin along my back prickle with apprehension. Vance flexed his hands, his knuckles audibly cracking. “Go away, Hustler. This ain’t none of your business. We’re talking, so fuck off.” Wanting to avoid a scene—the last thing I needed was the attention a fight would attract—I stood so quickly my chair almost toppled over. “I’m sorry, but I did promise him a dance.” Vance’s upper lip started to curl in a snarl before he caught himself and gave me a smooth smile. The way he could change moods so quickly made me leery. He was like an actor playing a role, his smile as empty as that of a puppet’s, eyes as glassy as those of a doll. Everything about him screamed fake, and despite his best efforts to mask it, I could feel his rage pouring off of[…]”
I swear my heart was in my throat when Lyric heard Chief at the wedding, but 1o points to Ann Mayburn to tying the story of the Rev into Lyric's past. Literally couldn't put it down because I could taste them catching Chief and I felt this one was a bit short but happy the other book was available to read
This book was fantastic! So exciting, panty-melting, heart-warming & totally unputdownable. I simply adored Hustler & Lyric together!
Be still my heart. Hustler is everything I look for in a book boyfriend; sexy, sweet, protective, funny & he has a wonderfully dirty mouth. Loved how proud he was of his woman & how he didn't mind putting people in their place when it came to her.
"You see this woman? This is Lyric, my woman. Only mouth that's gonna be on my c*ck is hers. Only c*nt I'm gonna cum in is hers. Spread the f*ckin' word, b*tch. Anyone messes with her and they'll regret it."
He was just so frakin' AMAZING; especially considering how many people were after him, namely that a**hole Chief. Grr...
As for Lyric... My heart went out to her & burst with excitement for her on multiple occasions. Escaping the compound, going on the run with Hustler, discovering her sexual prowess, visiting the clubhouse... She tackled so many new obstacles & only came out stronger in the end. Adored this woman so much!
Absolutely HATED that it ended on a cliffhanger (even if I already knew that ahead of time) but am so looking forward to part two of their story! I need me a happily ever after, NOT a happy for now ending! #HustlerAndLyric4Eva
Loved Lyric and Hustlers story, can't wait for the second part! Also; hate that it's two parts, just like the first four books were two two-parts, I'm no good with waiting..
It ended too quickly. Lyric finally getting away from the crazy compound and the nutjobs running it. Curious to see how things will go in part two! With her family history slowly being revealed. And her being out in the world, btw good for her for showing some backbone and not letting Hustler treating her like crap, she's had enough of that growing up.
And can't wait for the a-hole Chief to finally get whats coming to him, causing trouble starting in the first books (definitely read the first four books before reading this one) I'm sure he'll cause all sorts of trouble before they hopefully kill him (slowly and painfully!)
Main reason I didn't rate it higher was because of the Daddy thing.. Not a fan of it and it ruined the mood for me whenever it was said.
Well that sure did end abruptly. That's really the only reason I gave it at 4 instead of a 5. The book was good. The storyline and writing were great. I enjoyed following Lyric and Hustler's journey. Their story seemed rather short though and the ending came out of nowhere. I am curious to how many more books there will be before we get to the revelation of Chief. I'm glad we get more of Lyric and Hustler though. I'm wanting a Sledge and Marley book too. I'm so ready for Mimi and Mike to unleash their bada$$ness on everyone! LOL
I LOVE THIS SERIES! Ann had her hooks in me with Smoke and Swan. I don't know what it is about this series but I'm like a kid in a candy store and just can't wait for the next book. I was disappointed by how short this book was, but I totally understand giving Hustler and Lyric a great story and it not feeling rushed. I'm really anxious for the next book and I really "you know who" gets what's coming to him. And, I really hope that Ann agrees with the old saying, "Karma can be a bitch!" I'm a huge fan!!
Let me start by saying that you have to read this series in order. You can read this one semi stand alone if you have read the first 4 stories. (You don't have to go back and start again this book gives you reminders about characters). That said this is a wonderful story, you get to see new depth in minor characters and get to enjoy re-connecting with old characters. The only down side is it ends on a "cliff-hanger-ish". And now begins the wait for the next part.
Dun dun dun dun! Really? I can't believe this is a two part book. Yes, I read the blurb and knowing it would leave me wanted more, I still read it months ahead of Hustler and Lyric's HEA.
Ann Mayburn has me hooked. From the beginning, the Iron Horse MC books have been intense and held me captivate to the characters and stories. I'm looking forward to Chief's next move and how Lyric will respond to Hustler's love. A fantastic read!
Good story. Be warned. Ends in cliff hanger ! Hate cliffhangers! Having said that, this is a sweet read about a sheltered girl leaving that environment being lead into the world by a biker while being chased by some very bad dudes. It has some interesting biker characters, lots of mystery, little bit of hot sex and will keep you entertained. Only 4 stars because of the cliffhanger.
I picked this up at random and just started reading without checking out the series or the blurb. It's a good story but I would have been better served if I had started from the beginning, since this really isn't a standalone AND it has a cliffhanger. I think each couple usually has two books devoted to their story. Ah well, I understood enough to want to find out what happens with Lyric and Hustler.
I almost DNF'd this book a few times just because I was getting sick of all the "daddy" sex talk. I'm not at all into that. In fact it grosses me out. But I was 5 books into this 6 book series, so in-for-a-penny...
The book is OK overall, you just have to overlook the "daddy" talk every now and then (maybe 2 scenes). Let's just say I would have rated this book 3.75 stars, if it DIDN'T HAVE the "daddy" sex talk.
Happy to see Lyric and Hustler get their story, but hate the ending - I want a complete story, not just half of one! Thankfully, we finally know who Chief is - no huge surprise there, but nice to have confirmation - but I'd really rather wait a little longer and get the whole story than get half now and half in a few more months!
Once again another great book in the iron horse mc series by Ann Mayburn . I love hustler i think he may be my favorite biker out of the biker's so far. I love what he feels for lyric and how he is patient and caring and soft just for her . Even though this ended on a cliffy wich i hate . Im really looking forward to finding out what happens next.
NOW FINALLY! I really enjoyed this book, Lyric and Hustler. I liked their story and that the writer took a bit more to develop things between them. I just hated this end that left me hanging for more. This book finally tells us who Chief is and it is going to hurt!!!! I still struggle on the timeline but I try not to pay too much attention on that. WELL DONE!
1. well we know who Chief is. 2. Hustler better come clean to Lyric about her inheritance. 3.There wasn't enough plot and not enough "naitivity" regarding Lyric and her new freedom. Those sex scenes were really hot though.........
I have officially fallen down a rabbit hole and everything is Wonderful! Only Ann could weave such a spell-binding take in which up is down, and down is up! I can't wait to see what else happens in the adventure that is Hustler and Lyric.
I hope Iron Horse MC never ends!! Lordy, these men make your heart beat like it's gonna bust. These stories, so well written, you can imagine you're a spectator in their world.
Great story BUT............................I am so disappointed................I cannot handle these authors who get you hooked on their story lines only to leave you hanging!!!!! Supposedly #6 will be out around Christmas!!!!! Ann Mayburn you just lost a reader!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Uh, bit disappointed, I was eagerly waiting for her story. There were many confusing moments and Lyric was in previous books super shy and then she kind of jumped out of her shell so quickly, even before she left her religious sect.
Uh, bit disappointed, I was eagerly waiting for her story. There were many confusing moments and Lyric was in previous books super shy and then she kind of jumped out of her shell so quickly, even before she left her religious sect.