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The Dixie Warden Rejects MC #1
Beard Mode
Aaron ‘don’t ever call me Fatbaby’ Sims is lucky to be alive. Or at least that is what everyone keeps telling him. He doesn’t feel lucky, though. He’s scarred, has more than a little bit of a bad attitude, and there isn’t a single day that goes by that he doesn’t wish his wife would’ve just finished off the job. After being denied his old position at the fire department, he leaves, and doesn’t look back. He heads straight to Alabama and into the semi-welcoming arms of The Dixie Wardens MC. There he becomes a part of a brotherhood that forces him to get back in the land of the living. --- Imogen is a smart girl. A girl who doesn’t always make the best decisions. Her heart is in the right place when she walks into that prison, but it doesn’t take long for her to realize that her heart shouldn’t have had any say so in the matter. Especially when one wrong move lands her in the arms of a scarred man that looks frightening enough to scare any sane woman away. Immediately enthralled by the angry man, she tries to get closer to him. But the harder she tries to get to know him, the further he pushes her away. --- The only thing Aaron wanted to do after his now ex-wife was sent to jail was escape. Escape the awful memories. The pity-filled eyes. The curious glances. He does a damn fine job at ensuring he draws as little as attention as possible, but then that annoying woman with her startling blue eyes starts hammering away at his resolve. Makes him feel when he doesn’t want to feel. Imogen comes into his life and carves out a place for herself, obliterating his defenses one heated kiss at a time.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2017
390 people are currently reading
1621 people want to read
About the author
Lani Lynn Vale
171 books7,308 followersLani Lynn Vale is married to the love of her life that she met in high school. She fell in love with him because he was wearing baseball pants. Ten years later they have three perfectly crazy children and a cat named Demon who likes to wake her up at ungodly times in the night. They live in the greatest state in the world, Texas. She writes contemporary and romantic suspense, and has a love for all things romance. You can find Lani in front of her computer writing away in her fictional characters world...that is until her husband and kids demand sustenance in the form of food and drink.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 357 reviews
April 12, 2017
2.5 Well, wasn't this boring...
When I read an MC book I have certain expectations, and after finishing this, I have to say I'm disappointed.
This one was definitely not an MC read. It was a romance whose main char is, supposedly, part of a motorcycle club.
Even more, it was pretty boring, I skimmed a few parts. Can't really say it was too hot either.
So all in all, it was an average book.
Don't get me wrong, it had its good parts (hence the 2.5 rating), but if you're looking for an MC book, find another one. If you want a cute romance, this is for you.
When I read an MC book I have certain expectations, and after finishing this, I have to say I'm disappointed.
This one was definitely not an MC read. It was a romance whose main char is, supposedly, part of a motorcycle club.
Even more, it was pretty boring, I skimmed a few parts. Can't really say it was too hot either.
So all in all, it was an average book.
Don't get me wrong, it had its good parts (hence the 2.5 rating), but if you're looking for an MC book, find another one. If you want a cute romance, this is for you.
February 24, 2017
4.5 'New Beginning' Stars
Congrats and Bravo, Lani Lynn Vale, for the start of this new series, and for once again creating an addictive base/cast that is sure to keep us hooked for all the future books of The Dixie Wardens Rejects MC! Something tells me this is going to be epic! And judging by this start…WOW…
Aaron came to us, for the first time in the beginning of one of my all time series, Kilgore Fire, and immediately I was anxious to know more, and what would come from his horrific accident in Shock Advised – a MUST READ – and what the future (and Lani herself) reserved to him.
New Town. New Beginning…
Well, sort of… LOL. After everything that happened in his life, Aaron sees no other chance but to leave his family and friends, and return to the town he left as a child, and hope for a fresh start (as much as possible given his physical reminders, his scars), free from all the bad memories.
But fear not because this BEARD MODE, really is about moving on, and I’m so happy that the author didn’t get stuck in his tragic past, and its memories, because it sure gave us some hilarious scenes, like that opening scene at his mom’s dinner. OMG, I laughed so hard…
“I changed your diapers, you know. Cleaned shit out of the creases of your balls,” my mother started.
I pinched the bridge of my nose.
“That’s exactly what all of your diners want to hear, Mom,”
Of course, the fact that the heroine, Imogen, witness this humorous moment, but I diverge.
Imogen, the main female character was simply brilliant. A self made woman, an ex-Marine, and a absolute badass has been struggling to keep her crazy family afloat, so when her secret childhood crush, now all man, but scarred by his past moves across the hall, she can’t help but take her fill, even from afar.
Aaron, not one for bullshit, doesn’t deny that the pixie mechanic makes him feel more than any woman before, but with the why women burnt him in the past he can’t help but be cautious and protect himself. The same goes for Imogen, even though she already has plenty on her plate, she can’t help but be curious about him, so they end up in somewhat of a friendship. I loved that, but their chemistry, attraction and the sexual tension present when both were in the same room, couldn’t be denied for long, so when the tragedy struck one person close to Aaron – WARNING: have the Kleenex prepared – he realized that living like he had been wasn’t really living, and that we all need somebody to love, and that love us back.
I wanted someone to mourn me like that when I was gone.
It was a sick reality I lived in, but I wanted it.
And I wanted it with Imogen.
What I had with her—the feeling I got when I was around her—it felt big. It felt like something I wanted to pursue.
I don’t want to spoiler who the shocking moment concerns, but that moment, the funeral, with the widow, and the K9 partner, truly broke my heart! :'(((
At least all that sadness had a positive note, because it was the kick in the butt that Aaron needed to decide to move on with his life, and let go completely of his bitter past.
“I may be in a new place in my life, but I don’t ever want to forget what that life left me with.”
And this is an amazing lesson. Yes, he’ll never forget – specially because of the visible scars in his body – but he decides to take it as a lesson, but move on, and create a new life with Imogen, that really sees beyond the scars. To her they make him that man that he is today, the man she fell in love with.
“Look at me, Imogen. I’m a fuckin’ monster.” I blinked.
“You think you’re a monster?” I snorted. “You’re fucked in the head.”
And maybe they weren’t very attractive to him, but to me they made him who he was.
Didn’t I say she was amazing?!
These two were fantastic together in every single way. And for two long time celibate – adored this, by the way – they sure burned up the sheets! Lordy, the sex scenes were scorchingly hot and Aaron’s dirty talk… WOW…
“Fuck me,” he grated through clenched teeth. “You feel like a fucking inferno in the middle of a hurricane surrounding my cock. How is that even fuckin’ possible?”
Lani Lynn Vale keeps surpassing herself, specially in the male main character area, because Aaron was one of the best and most loyal, faithful, devoted and caring men I’ve have the pleasure of reading about.
“I won’t show you. I’ll make you feel.”
I’m so in love with both these characters! The only reason for which I knocked half a star for, even though the story was brilliant, was because of the reveal of their connection in the past, I think it was completely unnecessary, and even detracted from the magic of their connection. Given how strong their attraction was, it would seemed more natural that it was a instantaneous thing. But that is just a grain of sand in this thrill, love and suspense filled plot!
The writing, plot and character development are as beautifully executed as Lani Lynn Vale got us used to, and I’d dare say, even more than usual. Add to that all the amazing and fascinating new characters from this new MC, and like I’ve said in the beginning, we are utterly hooked! And I can’t finished without saying that the author sure likes to keep us on our toes, because the mystery surrounding Ghost’s identity – for which a have a very, very deep guess of whom he is, lol, – will leave me hitching for confirmation until the presentation of his book on 7/27/17. July can’t come fast enough. Actually, next month we have more Dixie Wardens Rejects, and I’m already counting down the days!!! <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
I more than liked the way my heart raced when she’d smile at me or tease me about something I’d done or said.
All in all, I fucking liked Imogen.
The amazing sex we’d had over the last three days was just a bonus.
The best thing, though, was the way she was taking all of the bad memories that Lynn had put into my brain away, and replacing them with good ones that included her.
She’d certainly given me more pleasure and happiness than Lynn had ever given me, and I knew that I was lost. So lost that I was sure I’d never find a way back.
ARC kindly provided by the author via Enticing Book Journey Promotions in exchange for an honest review
For full review with Release Blitz, check out my Blog post,
http://gisspotreviews.com/index.php/2...
Congrats and Bravo, Lani Lynn Vale, for the start of this new series, and for once again creating an addictive base/cast that is sure to keep us hooked for all the future books of The Dixie Wardens Rejects MC! Something tells me this is going to be epic! And judging by this start…WOW…
Aaron came to us, for the first time in the beginning of one of my all time series, Kilgore Fire, and immediately I was anxious to know more, and what would come from his horrific accident in Shock Advised – a MUST READ – and what the future (and Lani herself) reserved to him.
New Town. New Beginning…
Well, sort of… LOL. After everything that happened in his life, Aaron sees no other chance but to leave his family and friends, and return to the town he left as a child, and hope for a fresh start (as much as possible given his physical reminders, his scars), free from all the bad memories.
But fear not because this BEARD MODE, really is about moving on, and I’m so happy that the author didn’t get stuck in his tragic past, and its memories, because it sure gave us some hilarious scenes, like that opening scene at his mom’s dinner. OMG, I laughed so hard…
“I changed your diapers, you know. Cleaned shit out of the creases of your balls,” my mother started.
I pinched the bridge of my nose.
“That’s exactly what all of your diners want to hear, Mom,”
Of course, the fact that the heroine, Imogen, witness this humorous moment, but I diverge.
Imogen, the main female character was simply brilliant. A self made woman, an ex-Marine, and a absolute badass has been struggling to keep her crazy family afloat, so when her secret childhood crush, now all man, but scarred by his past moves across the hall, she can’t help but take her fill, even from afar.
Aaron, not one for bullshit, doesn’t deny that the pixie mechanic makes him feel more than any woman before, but with the why women burnt him in the past he can’t help but be cautious and protect himself. The same goes for Imogen, even though she already has plenty on her plate, she can’t help but be curious about him, so they end up in somewhat of a friendship. I loved that, but their chemistry, attraction and the sexual tension present when both were in the same room, couldn’t be denied for long, so when the tragedy struck one person close to Aaron – WARNING: have the Kleenex prepared – he realized that living like he had been wasn’t really living, and that we all need somebody to love, and that love us back.
I wanted someone to mourn me like that when I was gone.
It was a sick reality I lived in, but I wanted it.
And I wanted it with Imogen.
What I had with her—the feeling I got when I was around her—it felt big. It felt like something I wanted to pursue.
I don’t want to spoiler who the shocking moment concerns, but that moment, the funeral, with the widow, and the K9 partner, truly broke my heart! :'(((
At least all that sadness had a positive note, because it was the kick in the butt that Aaron needed to decide to move on with his life, and let go completely of his bitter past.
“I may be in a new place in my life, but I don’t ever want to forget what that life left me with.”
And this is an amazing lesson. Yes, he’ll never forget – specially because of the visible scars in his body – but he decides to take it as a lesson, but move on, and create a new life with Imogen, that really sees beyond the scars. To her they make him that man that he is today, the man she fell in love with.
“Look at me, Imogen. I’m a fuckin’ monster.” I blinked.
“You think you’re a monster?” I snorted. “You’re fucked in the head.”
And maybe they weren’t very attractive to him, but to me they made him who he was.
Didn’t I say she was amazing?!
These two were fantastic together in every single way. And for two long time celibate – adored this, by the way – they sure burned up the sheets! Lordy, the sex scenes were scorchingly hot and Aaron’s dirty talk… WOW…
“Fuck me,” he grated through clenched teeth. “You feel like a fucking inferno in the middle of a hurricane surrounding my cock. How is that even fuckin’ possible?”
Lani Lynn Vale keeps surpassing herself, specially in the male main character area, because Aaron was one of the best and most loyal, faithful, devoted and caring men I’ve have the pleasure of reading about.
“I won’t show you. I’ll make you feel.”
I’m so in love with both these characters! The only reason for which I knocked half a star for, even though the story was brilliant, was because of the reveal of their connection in the past, I think it was completely unnecessary, and even detracted from the magic of their connection. Given how strong their attraction was, it would seemed more natural that it was a instantaneous thing. But that is just a grain of sand in this thrill, love and suspense filled plot!
The writing, plot and character development are as beautifully executed as Lani Lynn Vale got us used to, and I’d dare say, even more than usual. Add to that all the amazing and fascinating new characters from this new MC, and like I’ve said in the beginning, we are utterly hooked! And I can’t finished without saying that the author sure likes to keep us on our toes, because the mystery surrounding Ghost’s identity – for which a have a very, very deep guess of whom he is, lol, – will leave me hitching for confirmation until the presentation of his book on 7/27/17. July can’t come fast enough. Actually, next month we have more Dixie Wardens Rejects, and I’m already counting down the days!!! <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
I more than liked the way my heart raced when she’d smile at me or tease me about something I’d done or said.
All in all, I fucking liked Imogen.
The amazing sex we’d had over the last three days was just a bonus.
The best thing, though, was the way she was taking all of the bad memories that Lynn had put into my brain away, and replacing them with good ones that included her.
She’d certainly given me more pleasure and happiness than Lynn had ever given me, and I knew that I was lost. So lost that I was sure I’d never find a way back.
ARC kindly provided by the author via Enticing Book Journey Promotions in exchange for an honest review
For full review with Release Blitz, check out my Blog post,
http://gisspotreviews.com/index.php/2...
June 21, 2020
Another really good series from Lani Lynn Vale.
Aaron and Imogen are a really good introduction to these books
Aaron is scarred emotionally as well as physically, used to people not making eye contact. When he meets Imogen there is one of that and she sees all of him.
Aaron and Imogen are a really good introduction to these books
Aaron is scarred emotionally as well as physically, used to people not making eye contact. When he meets Imogen there is one of that and she sees all of him.
February 20, 2020
This was a 2.5 read for me. I like really gritty MC books and this was much tamer. It wasn't bad over all the story was alright. But the way it was written felt rushed? Certain scenes didn't have a good segue and that pulled me out of the story. I might read the others in this series if I like the synopsis though as they are really quick reads.
February 19, 2025
Aaron will never trust a woman again after his ex-wife tried to light him on fire, the scars are still there and it causes others to stare at him in disgust. That is until he begins to talk to Imogen, the woman has gotten under his skin. She sees more than his face and after initially denying his feelings believing it would never work, he takes a chance.
Imogen is a whirlwind and has caught Aaron's eye, she intends to keep it but is worried about his residual feelings for his ex and if he would be able to trust her. Aaron is fully invested but with a gang living in the same apartment building things are heating up.
Had a huge surprise if you follow the series that I did not see coming. Loved this one, was completely enchanted by these two. Excellent way to start a new series.
Imogen is a whirlwind and has caught Aaron's eye, she intends to keep it but is worried about his residual feelings for his ex and if he would be able to trust her. Aaron is fully invested but with a gang living in the same apartment building things are heating up.
Had a huge surprise if you follow the series that I did not see coming. Loved this one, was completely enchanted by these two. Excellent way to start a new series.
September 12, 2019
Aaron and Imogen's book.
Liked it.
Liked it.
February 24, 2017
Eu gostei mas não amei a história. ok read
----------
I liked but not loved the story. ok read
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I liked but not loved the story. ok read
May 25, 2017
Not one of my favorites...
There were some crossed wires or something at the end. It wasn't written well or thoroughly or something. It was just off.
There were some crossed wires or something at the end. It wasn't written well or thoroughly or something. It was just off.
October 18, 2023
It’s just as awful as all the other LLV books. Cecile made me read it.
Usually LLV likes to put dead kids in her books. She does have a dead kid in this one, but she also added in child rape. She writes the best romance books (said no one ever).
Like most of her books, the description does not match the book. I’m going to try and do a recap, but it’s really hard to do with messy writing like this.
Aaron (ex-fireman, current police officer) lives next door to Imogen (mechanic). There’s a drug dealing gang that lives in the apartment below them. One of the members shoots Imogen. Then the same guy shoots and kills the sheriff, Stone, who happens to be Memphis’s father, who we loved, in Bang Switch. Why the f*ck do you want to kill off a character like that?!?! Anyway, the killer gets out of jail and goes after Aaron & Imogen. They are attacked and he ends up in the hospital with a brain injury and she ends up kidnaped, stripped naked, and watching the rape and beating of a teenage boy. We kind of skip through her rescue and his recovery. When he’s out of BRAIN SURGERY, she takes off to kill the man who did all of it. While she’s kicking the guys butt, Aaron shows up with the entire MC to watch, and eventually stop her from killing him. Ummmmm sure. I totally believe that. Then they get a HEA. It really just kind of ended and then we go to the shitty epilogue.
SIDE STORIES
His scars and ex-wife. He talks about his ex a lot and his scars, but never to the extent that’s implied in the book description. His bitterness towards his ex doesn’t stop him from going after Imogen at all. Nobody judges him on his scars either.
She’s worried about money because her car shop doesn’t make a profit. She says she can’t afford car insurance or anything else. She lives with her mom and sister and the 3 of them raise her other sister’s son while she’s away in the military. So that’s 3 adults and 1 child in an apartment – but she doesn’t have any money? PLUS her dad is a doctor. It just didn’t add up that she was so dirt poor. Plus, Aaron talks about how his ex put him in debt and he’s broke, but he buys Imogen an island as an anniversary gift two years later.
COMPLAINTS
We spend a few chapters going through the death of Stone and getting a lecture about how police officers sacrifice everything to be cops. Not that I disagree with that, but it’s the same lecture LLV puts in ALL of her books. We get it.
Every single guy in LLV books has a beard. This book is called Beard Mode. Why doesn’t the cover model have a beard?
The story is just all over the place, doesn’t have a clear focus, and they rarely make sense.
Imogen says, “put your wiener in me.” That’s probably the most unsexy thing I’ve heard.
The book description starts with the statement, “Aaron ‘don’t ever call me Fatbaby’ Sims…” literally NOBODY calls him that in the entire book.
The Epilogue is horrible. He goes through details about him pulling someone over and writing a ticket and then going to a car wreck. She talks about Aaron investigating a noise outside. They talk about the dog. Aaron argues with his boss about needing a vacation. Then we jump around from several other character’s POVs with what they were doing during the course of this book. That part made NO sense to me. I couldn’t keep up.
Overall, I didn’t like it, which is pretty much the same as all the other LLV books I’ve listened to.
Usually LLV likes to put dead kids in her books. She does have a dead kid in this one, but she also added in child rape. She writes the best romance books (said no one ever).
Like most of her books, the description does not match the book. I’m going to try and do a recap, but it’s really hard to do with messy writing like this.
Aaron (ex-fireman, current police officer) lives next door to Imogen (mechanic). There’s a drug dealing gang that lives in the apartment below them. One of the members shoots Imogen. Then the same guy shoots and kills the sheriff, Stone, who happens to be Memphis’s father, who we loved, in Bang Switch. Why the f*ck do you want to kill off a character like that?!?! Anyway, the killer gets out of jail and goes after Aaron & Imogen. They are attacked and he ends up in the hospital with a brain injury and she ends up kidnaped, stripped naked, and watching the rape and beating of a teenage boy. We kind of skip through her rescue and his recovery. When he’s out of BRAIN SURGERY, she takes off to kill the man who did all of it. While she’s kicking the guys butt, Aaron shows up with the entire MC to watch, and eventually stop her from killing him. Ummmmm sure. I totally believe that. Then they get a HEA. It really just kind of ended and then we go to the shitty epilogue.
SIDE STORIES
His scars and ex-wife. He talks about his ex a lot and his scars, but never to the extent that’s implied in the book description. His bitterness towards his ex doesn’t stop him from going after Imogen at all. Nobody judges him on his scars either.
She’s worried about money because her car shop doesn’t make a profit. She says she can’t afford car insurance or anything else. She lives with her mom and sister and the 3 of them raise her other sister’s son while she’s away in the military. So that’s 3 adults and 1 child in an apartment – but she doesn’t have any money? PLUS her dad is a doctor. It just didn’t add up that she was so dirt poor. Plus, Aaron talks about how his ex put him in debt and he’s broke, but he buys Imogen an island as an anniversary gift two years later.
COMPLAINTS
We spend a few chapters going through the death of Stone and getting a lecture about how police officers sacrifice everything to be cops. Not that I disagree with that, but it’s the same lecture LLV puts in ALL of her books. We get it.
Every single guy in LLV books has a beard. This book is called Beard Mode. Why doesn’t the cover model have a beard?
The story is just all over the place, doesn’t have a clear focus, and they rarely make sense.
Imogen says, “put your wiener in me.” That’s probably the most unsexy thing I’ve heard.
The book description starts with the statement, “Aaron ‘don’t ever call me Fatbaby’ Sims…” literally NOBODY calls him that in the entire book.
The Epilogue is horrible. He goes through details about him pulling someone over and writing a ticket and then going to a car wreck. She talks about Aaron investigating a noise outside. They talk about the dog. Aaron argues with his boss about needing a vacation. Then we jump around from several other character’s POVs with what they were doing during the course of this book. That part made NO sense to me. I couldn’t keep up.
Overall, I didn’t like it, which is pretty much the same as all the other LLV books I’ve listened to.
November 5, 2017
5 Beard Mode Stars
Oooooh HELLLS YAH, this book is all about the YUM. I love a bruiting man who needs a tender heart to take him under his wing and heal his soul.
Well I wouldn’t say Aaron NEEDS it but it would help and it does. I loved that they knew each other from before but didn’t really.
Imogen is a smart kick ass girl and I loved that she wasn’t afraid to be who she is.
She needed him as much as he needed her. There is a point in this book I bawled. I can’t even when a dog is in play that just broke my heart!
Over all this was a sweet book and I can’t wait for more in this series!
Loved the narration equally. :)
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
Oooooh HELLLS YAH, this book is all about the YUM. I love a bruiting man who needs a tender heart to take him under his wing and heal his soul.
Well I wouldn’t say Aaron NEEDS it but it would help and it does. I loved that they knew each other from before but didn’t really.
Imogen is a smart kick ass girl and I loved that she wasn’t afraid to be who she is.
She needed him as much as he needed her. There is a point in this book I bawled. I can’t even when a dog is in play that just broke my heart!
Over all this was a sweet book and I can’t wait for more in this series!
Loved the narration equally. :)
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
February 24, 2017
I wrote an awesome review, but my stupid iPad died on me when I was, literally, about to press "Done"
And now I just noticed that from the other little review I wrote out of frustration only the paragraph above survived!
I'm so not over this.
This review is seriously jinxed.
I think LLV casted a spell on me.
This woman hasn't redeemed herself to me, and even though she probably has no idea who am I -now I'm not so sure, because of the spell- and she probably doesn't owe me anything, she owes her characters better stories!
I WANT QUALITY NOT QUANTITY
Complacency is worse than failure.
At least you can learn from failure.
And now I just noticed that from the other little review I wrote out of frustration only the paragraph above survived!
I'm so not over this.
This review is seriously jinxed.
I think LLV casted a spell on me.
This woman hasn't redeemed herself to me, and even though she probably has no idea who am I -now I'm not so sure, because of the spell- and she probably doesn't owe me anything, she owes her characters better stories!
I WANT QUALITY NOT QUANTITY
Complacency is worse than failure.
At least you can learn from failure.
July 12, 2017
I loved this series, though I'm going to admit that I read this series all right after another while on vacation so it will be hard to review them since it was all one big story to me since i couldn't review in between. I will say that I LOVE this series. I haven't found a series I have been his excited about in a long time. I couldn't put any of these books down and didn't want to finish. thinking that I have to wait for the next two books is so depressing. I can't recommend this series enough it was amazing. I connected with all these characters so much and I loved the heroes who were all possessive and didn't sleep around this this was their last day on earth. I loved all the heroines also. I can't wait for more and I will be looking into other books/series from this author.
*I will say there heroines mother and sister irritated me like crazy in this book. In my opinion they were both very selfish
*I will say there heroines mother and sister irritated me like crazy in this book. In my opinion they were both very selfish
June 20, 2018
Uhm, yeah so this one was a bit slow and boring to me. It started out ok and I dont have a problem with the fact that this is not a 1%MC club, I dont need the gritty stuff for it to be good, but this was dull. This was my first book by this author, so I might be missing something in reading it out of order but I figured I'd start with the first (I'd wanted to start with the second book b/c that one looked interesting to me) of the series only to realize this is an spin-off of another series.
It started out ok, but about half way through, about the time the two got together, it was like slogging through mud.
I had issues with the continuity of character history, development and actions. they did not seem to mesh. You've got a former female marine who freezes when she hears gunshots, she is a mechanic who does not have a car b/c hers broke down (i understand not being able to afford parts, but she OWNS the garage, surely she can get them). And then the fact that it starts out as if the two characters had never met before and half way through you find out they grew up together in the same small town (that has only 9 cops but two gangs with enough people to have a 'gang war').
It was like two story lines for two different books got combined to make one, it was just a bit all over the place for me. There were points that it felt like it jumped over key action moments and made me wonder if i'd missed a paragraph somewhere. There were characters who popped in with out much intro and then back out with out a reason.
And then the epilogue, it was in at least 5 different POV, and just as jumpy as the rest of the book. It was almost like mini chapters that had been written but then cut out of the book b/c POV.
This book is a ‘wont read again’, I might, might try the next in the series, but not sure.
It started out ok, but about half way through, about the time the two got together, it was like slogging through mud.
I had issues with the continuity of character history, development and actions. they did not seem to mesh. You've got a former female marine who freezes when she hears gunshots, she is a mechanic who does not have a car b/c hers broke down (i understand not being able to afford parts, but she OWNS the garage, surely she can get them). And then the fact that it starts out as if the two characters had never met before and half way through you find out they grew up together in the same small town (that has only 9 cops but two gangs with enough people to have a 'gang war').
It was like two story lines for two different books got combined to make one, it was just a bit all over the place for me. There were points that it felt like it jumped over key action moments and made me wonder if i'd missed a paragraph somewhere. There were characters who popped in with out much intro and then back out with out a reason.
And then the epilogue, it was in at least 5 different POV, and just as jumpy as the rest of the book. It was almost like mini chapters that had been written but then cut out of the book b/c POV.
This book is a ‘wont read again’, I might, might try the next in the series, but not sure.
March 1, 2017
Interesting
I've read most of Lani Lynn Vales books but lately I've been feeling a little let down by them. This was a prime example. This story is mostly well-written, I liked the characters. The plot is interesting but sometimes I can't follow the story, it jumps about without the paragraphs linking or the story been clear. I often find myself rereading wondering whether I've skipped a page or not or even that its a faulty download.
Otherwise, I enjoyed it, Aaron is the flawed hero, Imogen the heroine who falls for him quickly, she was a little of a let down though. As a former marine, I thought she'd do more.
The book is a fairly expensive one and does feel rushed. I'd like to see mire detail and a really good edit.
I've read most of Lani Lynn Vales books but lately I've been feeling a little let down by them. This was a prime example. This story is mostly well-written, I liked the characters. The plot is interesting but sometimes I can't follow the story, it jumps about without the paragraphs linking or the story been clear. I often find myself rereading wondering whether I've skipped a page or not or even that its a faulty download.
Otherwise, I enjoyed it, Aaron is the flawed hero, Imogen the heroine who falls for him quickly, she was a little of a let down though. As a former marine, I thought she'd do more.
The book is a fairly expensive one and does feel rushed. I'd like to see mire detail and a really good edit.
February 13, 2017
Review by: Jennifer
(5 stars)
As with all of Lani Lynn Vale's previous stories. To fully enjoy this world that she has created, to love these characters the way they deserve, you should really read from the Freebirds series onward.
So last we saw Aaron, he was understandably unhappy, very grouchy, and moving away from his friends and the family to a little town in Alabama where his mama lives. He gives up on the dream he had at one time and now works in the prison. He pretty much just avoids everyone, except the brothers of the MC that he is prospecting with.
Imogen's life has been a bit of a mess lately, and she has no time to notice how sexy the neighbor looks, she is busy helping raise her nephew while her sister is deployed. But he looks so freaking hot on his bike, so Imogen will admire from afar, but it seems that they keep getting thrown together in all kinds of situations. Aaron doesn't want to trust another woman again, the last time almost killed him; but he just keeps thinking about Imogen. Will he give her a try or just keep pushing her away?
Lani Lynn Vale has a way of taking your soul and twisting it and tearing it up, but then somehow, some way making sure that the book still makes you have a goofy freaking happy smile, and all in love with her by the end of it. Its truly a gift! I don't want to say more than I have already have, some drama, lots of violence and the freaking sexy times that just leave you panting for more. It was great getting to check in on Booth and Masen again, and I have a feeling that LLV has some really HUGE plans coming up soon and I can not freaking wait! I give this 5 stars, but seriously if I could give more I really would!
(5 stars)
As with all of Lani Lynn Vale's previous stories. To fully enjoy this world that she has created, to love these characters the way they deserve, you should really read from the Freebirds series onward.
So last we saw Aaron, he was understandably unhappy, very grouchy, and moving away from his friends and the family to a little town in Alabama where his mama lives. He gives up on the dream he had at one time and now works in the prison. He pretty much just avoids everyone, except the brothers of the MC that he is prospecting with.
Imogen's life has been a bit of a mess lately, and she has no time to notice how sexy the neighbor looks, she is busy helping raise her nephew while her sister is deployed. But he looks so freaking hot on his bike, so Imogen will admire from afar, but it seems that they keep getting thrown together in all kinds of situations. Aaron doesn't want to trust another woman again, the last time almost killed him; but he just keeps thinking about Imogen. Will he give her a try or just keep pushing her away?
Lani Lynn Vale has a way of taking your soul and twisting it and tearing it up, but then somehow, some way making sure that the book still makes you have a goofy freaking happy smile, and all in love with her by the end of it. Its truly a gift! I don't want to say more than I have already have, some drama, lots of violence and the freaking sexy times that just leave you panting for more. It was great getting to check in on Booth and Masen again, and I have a feeling that LLV has some really HUGE plans coming up soon and I can not freaking wait! I give this 5 stars, but seriously if I could give more I really would!
August 21, 2017
4.5 Stars Loved it
Wow, what a GREAT story, with a great cast of characters!
Imogen and Aaron......I absolutely ADORED these two! The relationship progressed at a perfect pace, the honesty between the both of them was refreshing. I had wished for a bit more with them as an official couple to get to see them grow together in the latter half instead of right at the end but all in all a GREAT read:)
I will definitely be continuing on with his series:)
Wow, what a GREAT story, with a great cast of characters!
Imogen and Aaron......I absolutely ADORED these two! The relationship progressed at a perfect pace, the honesty between the both of them was refreshing. I had wished for a bit more with them as an official couple to get to see them grow together in the latter half instead of right at the end but all in all a GREAT read:)
I will definitely be continuing on with his series:)
April 12, 2017
4.25 stars
September 14, 2022
Not the best of this series! I couldn’t wait for Fat Baby’s book, though! Had to read it!
nope-not-for-me-not-interested
October 26, 2020Didn’t even get through the sample.
March 4, 2018
4 "New Beginnings" Stars for the story and narration.
Source: Library-loan
Source: Library-loan
February 23, 2017
5 SMOOCHES!!
I read and reviewed this book on behalf of RED CHEEKS READS.
REVIEW --> http://redcheeksreads.com/beard-mode-...
"She has given her readers the start of something special in this series, and as a fan of hers since the very beginning, I’m beyond thrilled."
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I read and reviewed this book on behalf of RED CHEEKS READS.
REVIEW --> http://redcheeksreads.com/beard-mode-...
"She has given her readers the start of something special in this series, and as a fan of hers since the very beginning, I’m beyond thrilled."
Friend, follow or find RED CHEEKS READS on:
Blog: http://redcheeksreads.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redcheeksreads
Twitter: https://twitter.com/redcheeksreads
Instagram: http://instagram.com/redcheeksreads
Pinterest: http://pin.it/8qoEAup
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February 14, 2017
I devoured this book! This may be the first book that I have read by Lani Lynn Vale, but it won't be the last! Honestly I loved it!
The storyline was awesome, and I loved the characters! Aaron and Imogene compliment each other perfectly! The chemistry was there, and I felt it! And I love Tank... just had to throw that in there!
Now I can't wait to get my hands on the next book! If you love a good MC read with a touch of military/police I highly recommend picking up Beard Mode!
**ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW**
The storyline was awesome, and I loved the characters! Aaron and Imogene compliment each other perfectly! The chemistry was there, and I felt it! And I love Tank... just had to throw that in there!
Now I can't wait to get my hands on the next book! If you love a good MC read with a touch of military/police I highly recommend picking up Beard Mode!
**ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW**
November 14, 2017
I was looking forward to read about Aaron. After all those terrible things he went through with his wife, he deserved his slice of happiness. Although, I wasn't happy with two things, , I was enchanted with this new group of badasses. Their camaraderie included lots of funny barbs and revealed a few intriguing secrets about upcoming books and their own characters.
January 28, 2018
You know, I just love Ms. Vale's books. She manages to suck me in from word go! This new series is no different than all the others I've read and loved. Being familiar with most of the characters makes it that much easier to just slip into time with them. There's everything I need in a book - drama, romance, sex, and most importantly - humor, and there was plenty of that, for me anyway. My heart went out to Aaron from when we first met him in the Kilgore Fire series. I can totally understand where his head is at - in comes Imogen - Lord I love this woman!!! She's just a little bit but she's full of fire, heart, humor. She's strong and tell's it like it is - gotta love that! Aaron and Imogen together - well another magical couple. Her ability to just see the person from the inside is quite remarkable. Let's face it most people would be like Tawny. Tank the wonder dog was front and center in this one. My heart was hurting already but his actions just broke it. I'm a sucker for animals in stories too! This is not your "typical" MC story - its more about the characters and their romance and life. The MC is there and some things happen that are related to it but its not central - and that's a welcome change. I know this is really long winded but I have to give credit where credit is due. Ms. Vale's books may not be everyone's cup of tea and that's ok - it's what makes the world go round! For me though, if I need to read something that will make me feel better these always do the trick. Thank you Ms. Vale. Your writing style, your sense of humor and your ability to create characters that suck you in from the beginning and make you live through what they're going through is awesome. Keep them coming!!!!
March 15, 2018
I have one thing to say. Why I waited so long to read it? I started not in order, which probably will give me some headache, to catch up what's happened and what's will happen and all that... But those books were good, and I had this on my kindle for months at least. So, again, why it took me so long to read this one?
This was easy read and by that I mean it just flowed and I had no blocks, that sometimes hinder my reading. It was intense, emotional and action packed. I liked both Imogen and Aaron. And they made a perfect couple.
This was easy read and by that I mean it just flowed and I had no blocks, that sometimes hinder my reading. It was intense, emotional and action packed. I liked both Imogen and Aaron. And they made a perfect couple.
March 14, 2018
Not a lot to say about this one other than I liked it. Aaron and Imogen were great together. I really liked that Imogen didn’t really see Aaron’s scars and he realized that. With Aaron’s life changing so much Imogen was perfect to go along for the ride and a bad ass in her own.
November 9, 2021
I read this story because H was mentioned in Shock Advised. He was a firefighter but in an accident that caused by his crazy wife. In this story, he finally fell for a normal woman, h, and got his HEA.
February 20, 2018
I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the narrators.
March 7, 2017
Beard Mode follows Aaron "Fat Boy" Sims, Booth's brother. Aaron has been dealt a craptastic hand in life and was saddled with an evil b*tch for a wife. He survived, not unscathed, but he survived. This is his story to find himself and find out whether or not his heart can trust and love again after all that has happened.
So so good!! I loved this book - I loved watching the full circle relationship between Aaron and Imogen. I loved seeing Booth and Masen again too!!
Can't wait for more - definitely intrigued by this band of misfits! :)
So so good!! I loved this book - I loved watching the full circle relationship between Aaron and Imogen. I loved seeing Booth and Masen again too!!
Can't wait for more - definitely intrigued by this band of misfits! :)
February 28, 2017
I was excited to see a new series by Lani but then worried seeing this was a spinoff from a series I had not read. No worries any background stories are explained and this book/series starter completely stands on its own.
I loved Imogene she was a bit of a bad#ss but also a bit of a mess. Her life was all over the place but she kept on truckin'.
Aaron made me sad when he called himself and his club brothers rejects. Then I got it they weren't really rejected more like misfits. I liked them all immediately!
Imogene and Aaron were great together and pretty damn steamy. They sure put me through a few heartstopping scares. The fast pace of the book had me devouring it. I to see if everyone was going to make it. Loved the background gang story running through the story it kept the book action packed.
I cannot wait to read the stories of the rest of these "Rejects"
I loved Imogene she was a bit of a bad#ss but also a bit of a mess. Her life was all over the place but she kept on truckin'.
Aaron made me sad when he called himself and his club brothers rejects. Then I got it they weren't really rejected more like misfits. I liked them all immediately!
Imogene and Aaron were great together and pretty damn steamy. They sure put me through a few heartstopping scares. The fast pace of the book had me devouring it. I to see if everyone was going to make it. Loved the background gang story running through the story it kept the book action packed.
I cannot wait to read the stories of the rest of these "Rejects"
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