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DALE

I'm a mature and very pragmatic person, whom others like to call boring.
At least I was...until Harley came back into town...

What do you do when a girl comes back for some petty revenge against you and seduction is part of her game?
You pretend to be a millionaire dom, of course.
Yeah...it sounded better in theory. My execution keeps ending up in awkward messes, and this game between us gets even messier when I learn more about Harley. She's easy to fall for, even though she's hazardous as hell.
What happens when all the games end?

HARLEY

One simple little goal turns into one giant disaster.
On the surface, Dale Sterling seemed like an asshole from my past; the typical arrogant guy who boulders through life and anyone in his way. So a little revenge seemed plausible, considering what he did to me once upon a long time ago. In hindsight, it was immature. But revenge has kept me on top of the world since I stopped being on the bottom of everyone's shoes, so I make no apologies for my immaturity.
But Dale is weirdly kinky...
Everything is going fine...until it gets real. Now the guy I wanted to humiliate is the same guy I'm begging my heart not to stupidly fall in love with.
Unfortunately, my heart tends to be stubborn.

*Can be read as a stand-alone
*Sexual content
*Adult language

394 pages, Paperback

First published January 30, 2017

570 people are currently reading
2502 people want to read

About the author

C.M. Owens

65 books8,912 followers
C.M. Owens only writes romance, but she's a sub-genre whore.

She has two other pen names that she writes under.
Kristy Cunning for Reverse Harem and S.T. Abby for her darker/stabby books.

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5 stars
2,570 (58%)
4 stars
1,158 (26%)
3 stars
482 (11%)
2 stars
107 (2%)
1 star
45 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
Profile Image for Eva (Romance2Review.com).
84 reviews8 followers
February 27, 2017
I love this series so freaking much. And this book is close to being my favorite of them all. It was good on so many levels it’s hard to find words to transfer my thoughts to this screen. It had all the goods. If fact it had all the greats. It was so good I’m starting to speak in the abstract, lol.

Okay, but seriously it’s been a really long time if ever that a book had me laughing so hard that tears were streaming down my face. My family thought I’d lost my damn mind I was laughing so hard. Then tears would be streaming down face for a completely different reason. And, again my family could only watch in shocked confusion as I lost my shit.

Dale and Harley. Such a beautiful and heart wrenching love story. Both had their past, but Harley held a special place in my heart. Not really wanting to divulge my own historical issues in great detail, her loveless relationship with her family was something that spoke to me. I loved that she took what happened to her, not only with her family, but with “the mean girls” from high school and instead of allowing it to break her, she made something of herself in spite of them.

Dale, always the level headed of the Sterling's. Always the observant, rational, non man whore one of the bunch finally gets a taste of what he’s been missing. He’s always watched from the outside as his friends found the kind of love that’s always eluded him. Until the one person from his past that he has wronged finds herself back in Sterling Shore bent on revenge. Then of course in a rash of bad choices he decides to throw off her attempt at revenge with pretending to be a kinky dom. And let me tell you, for the straight laced one of the group, his attempt at dirty domming it is freaking hilarious. I won’t ruin the best parts with details, but seriously you have to read this book. The laughs alone will have you wanting to start over at the beginning to read it all over again.

I LOVE BRITT! I just had to get that off my check because I know due to her age it’s going to be a while maybe before we get her book. But I want it so bad! God I love her character.

HEA, duel POV, no cheating, no triggers, no OW/OM drama.

For more of my reviews check out my blog romance2review.com
Profile Image for Rosalie.
583 reviews
February 15, 2017
Another great addition :) I loved being with the Sterlings again!

I loved both Dale and Harley! Dale is just so sweet, and I love how strong Harley was as the boss of her company.

I loved that Dale did proper grovelling in the end after he hurt her. And I empathised deeply with Harley!

I should mention in the beginning , since Harley went to school with the Sterlings, I disliked so many other characters more.

Firstly, never liked Rain but now I even dislike her MORE after Tria and Kode's book.

Corbin... Jesus he was even more of a manwhore than I thought despite knowing Ruby.

But what I can say is how much Kode and Tria mean to meeeee. I loved them the most! I wish Kode apologised more to Tria in their book now that I've seen some of his bullying tactics and how she'd run crying. But again, his love for her now is crazy and I would even love more of them.

I loved the humour in this book! So funny and the situations made me laugh :) still love this gang and I'm looking forward to Maverick's book!!!
Profile Image for 2OCC Reviews.
3,487 reviews254 followers
February 6, 2017
I am a huge fan of this series. From Kade to Rye all the way to Maverick and everyone else what has had and hasn't had their story. Sterling Shores is a place that I wish was real because all the characters are so amazing. When I heard that this one was coming out I was drooling! Not only because of the cover but because I was excited for more!

Harley iterated me but in the best way. When reading, you will understand what I mean. It took her time to find her confidence but once she has it, she's still the same women, but she's determined.


Dale wasn't our typical bad boy and that's what makes me love him so much. But he does what he has too and he had me laughing so hard. Not only because his inner dialogue, but because he was funny, sweet, and perfect and just.....YUMMY!


One of the best part of this series is always seeing past characters. We fall in love with each of through the course of the series. We get to keep up with them and see how their relationships progress.

This was a fun read but deep down, it's got a beautiful story about acceptance. I don't want to give too much away but it's got a man who was always the good boy, and we see..... some kink!

Overall I loved it. This story was funny but deep down like all the SS books it has heart. The author's writing is amazing and getting a sneak peak at the next book, that's enough for me to crave the next book! I can't wait for more! 5 stars #2OCCJD
Profile Image for Raven.
561 reviews
February 7, 2017
***5+ Stars***

It is no secret that I am obsessed with C.M. Owens and her books. So it shouldn't be a surprise that I absolutely loved Make Me.

This is Dale and Harley's story. She has had a long time crush on Dale since they were in High School. Dale being a guy never really paid attention to how she really felt about him. Fast forward a couple of years and they are both grown ups and Harley has just moved back into town. The feelings she had for Dale are still buried deep below the hate she has for him after what he did to her in High School. Now Dale must apologize and convince Harley to give him another chance.

This book had me laughing so hard I had tears at time, but there were also some not so laughable moments. That is what I love about C.M. Owens' books, she knows how to deliver just enough to make sure you feel every single emotion. I am very sad that this series is almost over, but it will be one that I will continue to reread years from now.

**ARC copy read and reviewed by Blackbird Book Reviews.
Profile Image for Kerry Fletcher.
584 reviews9 followers
February 7, 2017
It's like going home after a few months away! You settle in, you catch up with old friends and family, you laugh at their problems, you rejoice when things have gone right and you feel right along with them when they're sad. You want to smack their heads together when they fight but most of all you love them.

I'm not even gonna cover it up or try and make out I'm unbiased. I'm not unbiased this is one of my all time fave series and authors. I don't care if you know this. This is fact! End of! So... if you're reading this review bare that in mind and then read the rest of the series cause I'm like this for a reason people!! I LOVE IT!!!!!!!

This is book 10 in the Sterling Shore series. This is Dale and Harley.

Dale is usually always the sensible one in the Sterling family. He's a grown up. When all the others have been having fun and getting the girls he's sat back and been content with working and sorting out his cousin's and friends messes. We've seen in previous books in the series he had a little drama with a past relationship but not much. He's level headed and we find out in this book he's always been like that. He's seen his parents relationship and has followed their lead. Find someone you like and grow to love them. He's not expecting lust and need just friends hopefully leading to love.

Harley is an outcast. Not in with her own family she's not wanted by them and she feels she's never been good enough. She went to school with all the Sterling's but her school experience was nothing like theirs. She was a loner and Dale was pretty much the only guy she spoke to. Unfortunately a misunderstanding leads her to end up hating Dale. She finished school early and left town determined to make something of herself and prove everyone wrong.

She returns to Sterling Shore a success. Determined to show them all she made it. She wants revenge.

Just like every single book in this series it's completely different from the others. Dale isn't cocky and arrogant. He isn't loud and attention seeking. He's a normal guy who's a little insecure. He's kind of lived his life in the shadows of his friends and family and he's been content with that but in this book he really comes into his own. Harley is unlike any other girl he's met because she only see's him. Not the family name and status dating a Sterling would gain her. She only has eyes for him not any of his cousins and this gives him confidence as the story goes on.

Harley is just wonderful. She's you or i. She's made something of herself and is proud of that but she wants others to think the same way. Her dad thinks shes nothing. Her mom uses her she has no one to back her up and stand up for her. She can totally do it herself but it would be nice if someone else would too. I love how you see both sides to her. Both the strong independent woman but also the vulnerable side. When she see's Dale again everything she ever thought about him goes out the window. He's the only man she has ever had a thing for and she finds he's still the sweet guy who gave her the time of day in high school. She can't believe he actually likes her for her.

These two together are so sweet. They both feel the same but both have insecurities they need to get over. They both save each other. The pull between them has them feeling the lust and passion missing from both of their lives.

There's plenty of heat to get those juices flowing! lol The build up is near unbearable! Jeezus H Christ you end up virtually panting for them to finally get it on!! Teasing hell! lol When they do well... not only is it hot but it's funny as too! Dale gets himself in a bondage situation he can't back out of. literally! lmao

As with most of this author's books the comedy in them is off the scales! The sex shop scene with his cousins will have you crying laughing. One hot swollen scene will have you cringing behind your hands both laughing and in embarrassment for them.

Of course it never runs that easy and misunderstandings ensue but the ending is so worth it!

The story keeps you turning those pages so fast you'll need a re-read straight away to make sure you didn't miss anything. I did!

I also love how you see all the other characters in every book. The couple from book 1 right up to ones who haven't had their story yet. You already know these people and love them.

The thing about these stories is they make you care. They make you want them so badly to have the happiest ever after they can possibly get. I said at the start about family. Reading this series you become part of that family. I am a Sterling!!

Highly recommend this book, this series, this author.

A is for Alpha B is for Books
Profile Image for Chasing Away Reality.
513 reviews30 followers
February 4, 2017
This book is absolutely fabulous! It's funny, sexy, and gave me all kinds of feels. This is my second read by C.M Owens, and if all of her female leads are this strong, feisty, and confident, I'll definitely be back for more. Something else I love about this book is that there is little angst, a whole lot of revenge plotting, and straight communication. Granted your going to get the whole break-up/misunderstanding type scene that puts a wedge between the couple, but that's expected and not over-the-top here. And her lead character seems to decide that love is worth more than hating the people who did you wrong. But make no mistake, Harley still gets her revenge.

I adored Harley and everything about the quirky outcast. She's fun, sexy, and brilliant. I enjoyed her relationship with Vivica, the revenge specialist, and Britt, the intern, as well as the way she handled herself in the face of adversity. It takes guts to go home when you were humiliated as badly as she was. I'm also glad she found her place among the women in Dale's life. She was worthy and in need of some good girlfriends.

Dale would definitely have been that "one guy". I don't blame Harley for the decisions she made in regard to him. Not only is he hot, but he's also loyal, sweet, and a little kinky once he figures things out. It was fun watching him squirm trying to pretend to be something he's not. I like how Dale is a bit more reserved and caring than the rest of his family. You can see it in how he's always treated Harley. Dale is also a bit insecure and unwilling to trust women in general. This make it easy for them both to open up to each other. He can see how open and honest Harley is, which allows him to finally feel comfortable just being him.

I loved, loved, loved Dale and Harley together. Even though they were teens and clearly too immature to deal with or recognize their feelings for each other, it's clear that their was a special pull between them way back then. I'm a sucker for second chance romances, and while this isn't a traditional one, it had elements of a missed opportunity. And while they moved on to become strong and confident adults, they both lived their lives looking for acceptance. I'm glad they were able to find it with each other.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Hopelessly Addicted To Books .
3,622 reviews151 followers
February 6, 2017
I read the blurb and I couldn't wait to get my hands on the book I just knew it was going to be fun.
The book starts off in the past with the guys in school. It was here that I fell in love with Harley her story is one that many will relate to. I adore her, she reminds me of myself at school geeky and awkward and unsure where she fits in.
She returns home years later with one thing on her mind revenge now I know you should turn the other cheek but I was cheering her on. From the start you can feel the chemistry with Dale but because of the past she's wary but he's quite determined. The whole pretend Dom had me laughing out loud, those guys are nuts.
There are some misunderstandings, some horrible people her Dad is the worst I wanted to punch his lights out but I loved when she finally gets friends that stand by her she becomes part of the Shore family.
We get to catch up with the guys and get some hints for the next book which I can't wait for.

****Reviewed For Sweet Spot Sisterhood Blog****
Profile Image for Beanimous.
1,025 reviews15 followers
February 10, 2017
DNF Chapter 17.

I had tried several times, but I was unable to relate to either characters. It has a NA feel to it, and unfortunately, not my cup of tea.

The heroine decided to exact revenge because the hero stood her up during high school prom seven years ago. She, as a CEO, had decided to set up the headquarters of her firm in a small town, so that she can rub it in the face of her former tormentors in high school....It does not make any sense, and seem like a illogical and potential disastrous decision a CEO should make.

I can not go on reading anymore, when I read about the hero and heroine is going to engage in BDSM when either of them have any BDSM experience and floggers are involved, and and and and heroine is a Virgin....This is bad decision overload, and I just can not take it no more.

Sorry I do not like this book, honestly this book made me grimace and felt a little ill.
Profile Image for BB Belle.
132 reviews3 followers
January 29, 2017
Bangor Belle Book Besties ~ Eileen
I received an arc copy of this book in return for an honest review.

One simple little goal turns into one giant disaster. On the surface, Dale Sterling seemed like an asshole from my past; the typical arrogant guy who boulders through life and anyone in his way. So a little revenge seemed plausible, considering what he did to me once upon a long time ago.

Everything is going fine…until it gets real. Now the guy I wanted to humiliate is the same guy I’m begging my heart not to stupidly fall in love with.
Unfortunately, my heart tends to be stubborn.

Harley returns to Sterling Shore, a successful accomplished beautiful hot business woman. Intent on taking out a little humiliating revenge on some people who had made her life hell. On the list is Dale Sterling, the guy she’s always had a secret love for, the guy who stood her up at prom, the guy that caused the humiliating bullying she suffered afterwards. What she doesn’t expect is for Dale to be happy to see her, and for all her old feelings for him to rise to the surface.

First thing I have to say is “OH MY GOOD LAWD !!” This book for me was just simply book reading heaven. It was everything i expected and more. Harley was sassy, determined yet vulnerable, emotional, stubborn and her heart was at times on her sleeve. She has triumphed, when life and family have kicked her down and although her many issues and insecurities still follow her she really does have a heart of gold.

Dale just blew me away and is now without a doubt one of my most favorite Sterlings. He’s so much more than he shows. His heart is bigger and more fragile than we would ever assume, yet hes got strength, He’s also hot, sexy and a sure panty dropper.

The dynamics within this Sterling family and friends is just captivating and it brings all into play. Even when Dale suspects Haley’s reason for being in town, he can’t walk away from the draw they have towards each other. The chemistry between the two is like a fireball leaping off the pages and each and ever step of their journey will have you in absolute tears of laughter or tears of sorrow, all in perfect amounts. You can’t help but get caught up in their relationship and your emotions take every dip and dive of the roller coaster right along with them. From bullets to ointments, paddles to whips, there is never a moment to breath between bouts of laughter and its impossible to set this book down.

I absolutely loved the relationship more and more as it developed, that warm snuggly feeling you get when you know!! …..You know this couple really belong together but just don’t know if they can make it. At times i wanted to shake Harley, but then when she starts to open up you understand her all the more When parts of her past come out and you realise what she has endured, my heart broke for her. I fell in love with this book and I fell even more for Dale when he used his fist in just the right face !!!!!

So if you want a book, that will have you devouring each page this is it. If you want a book that will have you in as many tears of laughter as sorrow, this is it!! If you want a book with characters that are so well written, that you KNOW them, this is the book for you. This is truly a book you can get wrapped up and lost in !!
Profile Image for Becky Rendon.
3,856 reviews81 followers
February 6, 2017
4.5 stars

Are you a closet nerd out for revenge?
Do you relish the underdog getting the win?
Does a small (or extremely large) part of you wish karma happened where you could witness it?

Then one click now.
Still not sure...

Do you like interconnected stand alones that focus on an awesome group of eclectic individuals who would overwhelm and make you feel at home all at once?

Still thinking...

How about a guy who pretends to be a Dom to scare a girl off only to desperately Google things to keep her coming back for more?

Seriously you're still on the fence...ugh! Time to bring out the big guns.

Think about how beneficial it is to have doctors in the circle of friendship when American Pie like mishaps become dangerously normal.

That one had to have you one click!
No, you must be hardcore. Ok then, you leave me no choice. I will break out the feels.

Despair, loneliness, abandonment, humiliation, regret, love, tons of lust, hesitation, and heartbreak

But which one is the closer...which feeling ends the fun, flirty, and down right amusing adventure these two embark on?

Guess now's a great time to one click, huh?!?!

Reviewed for the Sweet Spot Sisterhood
Profile Image for AnessaRenee Reviews.
311 reviews10 followers
February 7, 2017
Dale sterling. Ok so have you read the other books? No? You should go do that simply because this series is amazing but this can work as a stand alone. But let me tell you, you slowly want and need to know more about Dale. And his book is everything I wanted it to be. Also Harley is definitely the one to give him a run for his money. This series is seriously one that stays with you no matter how much time passes and it makes it easy to pick up the newest release with ease. The author makes these characters stick with you. I don't want to give away any secrets because Dale is so mysterious so my best advice is to go read his book and if you haven't yet go read all the books before this one. You will thank me later. This book was low on the angst and I felt it was a great blend of reality and the sterling glitz we all love. It's flows right a long and before you know it you're done with the book and wondering when the next one will release.
*Reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood*
Profile Image for Colette.
573 reviews7 followers
April 11, 2022
Lots of people say this about books but it's true for me here, if I could give it more than five stars I would! I knew I was going to like it, I didn't expect to love it as much as I did. I read it twice in a two days. I don't want to read another book, I'm enjoying the afterglow of this book! Dale was so much more than he's ever been portrayed in the other series. He's still very in tune to people but I felt I got to really know him. Harley was an incredible inspiration to women in books and women in real life.

This book had everything...laughs, drama, heartbreak, romance, anal lube, floggers, handcuffs, hot sex and an incredible story. Just enough angst to keep you on the edge of your seat but not so much where you think OK enough already.
Profile Image for Kim Richards.
1,338 reviews7 followers
March 21, 2018
Brilliant

I loved this book, I was pulled in from start to finish, even having a temperature and being I'll could not make me put this book down. Sterling Shores series is one of my go to series and I was ready for this book as I had just finished rereading.
Dale Sterling has always and still is my favourite of the Sterling boys, this book has just cemented his place in my heart although he does come second.
In true C.M. Owens fashion she has given us one hell of a story. This was a book I was looking forward to, as Dale has always been quiet compared to some of them.
Well worth the wait. Look forward to the next one.
C. M. Owens you are one hell of a writer please don't ever stop. Your books are awesome.
Profile Image for April.
159 reviews
May 31, 2018
I love this author but this book wasn't as funny or as captivating as her other books but it still was a great book. However there were still a couple scenes that had me chuckling and others that had me holding my breath from the angst. I'm waiting, (a bit impatiently) for Britt's story.
Profile Image for Cassie May.
Author 9 books85 followers
February 6, 2017
Reviewed on behalf of 2 Girls Who Love Books Blog
Back to Sterling Shore… It is almost like coming home to your favorite relatives that you see rarely.
That being said I was so grateful when Make Me appeared on my kindle and it was as good as all the other Sterling Shore books before. After not connecting with Worth It I so wished that Make Me would be different and it was. I loved it. The Sterlings and all their partners and friends are one of my favorite book family and I didn’t know how much I needed to get back to them till I started reading.
People who have read the Sterling Shore Series know what I am talking about and the others? What are you waiting for? Go and start Hooked on the Game today! :D
Okay, back to the book. The writing style was great as usual with this author. There were no plotholes, strange words or other things that dimmed my reading experience. Normally after every new Sterling book I say, this one is almost tied with my favorite (Loving War). This was not the case with this one. Not because it was bad, absolutely not, but because Dale Sterling was not as alpha and stubborn as Kode Sterling. That made his book more tame, but good as well.
Spoiler in the next paragraph (but nothing concerning the plot)
I really enjoyed reading this book and I feel as if this review is slowly getting out of control :D I really liked the book and I think the 4,5 stars are confirming that, but Dale is not my favorite Sterling. He will be for a lot of women, I think, because he is thoughtful and sweet and overall as dumb as any male Sterling is when he meets his better half. Also Harley is one of the best female characters in the Series so far. She is hilarious! You have to meet her to understand what I mean if I tell you… Anal Ease is no fun! And a bullet vibe doesn’t go in the rear entrance… Just saying :D
You may ask yourself why I reduced my stars by a half one. I almost don’t want to say this, but since it really is something I almost constantly think of when I see the cover of Make Me appearing anywhere I wanted to say it: I don’t like the cover, because it doesn’t look as good as the others. The persons just look cut out and pasted on the background without any further detailing. It looks fake and since I know the cover designer and the author can do so much better in covers, I just wanted to mention it.
4,5 stars for this book.
Profile Image for Emma Johnston.
935 reviews29 followers
February 7, 2017
I admit I was late to the party with this series, being that I only read book 1 about a month ago and devoured the whole lot within about a week. And this book was certainly no different.

I always liked Dale, he was quiet but observant and smart throughout the series so I was excited to get into his head. I loved and related to Harley from page one and it was completely obvious that they were meant to be together. Part of this book were just down right hilarious in only a way that CM Owens can be her books. I love that we always get to see the whole gang and even though there are loads of them, you never p need to try and remember who is white who, you just know! Dale was an awesome "Dom" in my eyes but that one particular scene, although the sounded painful, was hilarious!

I have been saying since a few books in that I can't wait for Maverick's book, and that hasn't changed, but Dale was definitely a game changer for me. I'm publicly saying he is now my favourite Sterling <3

Once again I cannot wait for the next instalment in this series and I thank CM Owens oh so much for writing these amazing books. And a special shout out to Melissa Teo for introducing me to these sexy men and always feeding my book addiction! :D

Reviewed on behalf of Ever Growing Book Obsession blog
89 reviews7 followers
June 17, 2017
I, like so many other C.M. Owens fans waited a long time to see Dale Sterling really fall in love. And Make Me did not disappoint.

Dale and Harley have the same incredible mix of humor and vulnerability that is a hallmark of Owens' writing. You love to see them laugh and you hold your breath when they fall or cry. In the case of Dale, we've seen him be the mature rock for his friends for the whole series. Watching him stumble, bumble, and blow super hot for Harley was so damn awesome it was well worth the wait.

If you haven't read Sterling Shores, you need to. Every single book. Without fail. The men and women of SS are sexy, funny, smart, and will make you laugh and cry in the same book. So Bravo, C.M., I knew I loved Dale before, but now I want to take him to the "not red room."
Profile Image for Neringa Neringiukas.
1,213 reviews85 followers
February 6, 2017
I really freaking adore Sterling Shore series. Make Me is another awesome addition to it. I enjoyed it very much. I almost peed myself laughing so much. There was also a moment, where I even cried like my heart was breaking. Yeah, you need to be prepared for fun and some heartbreak.

Dale is amazing. I love him. I was introduced to other side of him. Hilarious one, even though he wasn't trying to be funny. I even now I'm chuckling, remembering his experiments. Lol

And Harley... Well, she is her own crazy girl. A perfect match for Dale.

I love the fact I meet some of characters from previous books. It made me wish for reread.
Profile Image for Ani.
256 reviews5 followers
February 10, 2017
Book 10 in the Sterling shores series. You would think the story would be running thin, I mean how can she keep you gripped and coming back for more? The answer?

Sheer writing genius!

You don't expect Dale to be anything more then good old dependable stable Dale. Harley is a whirlwind that takes everyone by surprise. I absolutely adore her character and loath her past, girls are vicious. I never thought I would hate Dale but I wanted in on that girls night because he didn't deserve her.

C.M. Owens gave me what I needed; a funny, intense HEA and a little teaser to ensure my addiction to her work stayed strong. #11 is out soon, right?
Profile Image for Brianna Nimo.
7 reviews1 follower
February 20, 2021
Omg I don't even know where to begin with this review. This book is the best in the entire series and my absolute favourite. I read it in less than a day! That's how interesting it was. It was an awesome surprise that awaited me when I finally got to read it on my birthday after a really long search! I can't even properly put into words how much these two mean to me lol.

Let's start with Dale. A complex character that I've always been intrigued to know about Dale since his character comes off as the quiet type and not much was mentioned about him in the previous books. I wasn't disappointed at all. AT ALL. He's such a sweet, mature, gorgeous, caring, introverted, complicated man and so mysterious, definitely the underrated one. I like the whole idea of the prosthetic leg since you don't get to read a book where the hero/heroine is disabled (not disabled per se but has a unique quality about them that sets them apart from the others). He's one of my favourite Sterlings if not my favourite and one of my top heroes of the entire series. In addition, he's also my ideal book boyfriend.

And with my girl Harley, I didn't like her...I loved her! Sure, Harley's original revenge plan is childish and immature, she herself knows that and it makes for character growth. Everybody has different opinions and this is mine. She's gone through so much pain but that did not stop her from becoming a Grade A + gamer and queen of the nerds in the future. She's strong, beautiful, independent, ambitious, sassy, fierce, generous and crazy. I hated the pain of her downright abusive childhood and the two people who didn't deserve to be called her parents but I believe it has made her stronger than ever before, especially after she let go of getting revenge on them for all they put her through once she realized love and forgiveness were both concepts worth exploring. I also loved how Dale was finally comfortable being himself and free.

Dale and Harley have both faced insecurities in their lives with Dale's amputee status, his fiancée Fiona cheating on him leading to his major trust issues and women preferring his other cousins over him and Harley's with dealing with her weight issues and being bullied back in high school just because of a minor incident at prom by the only boy she lusted after and obsessed over due to a family issue which came up. This however made her the victim of intense bullying which made her hate a lot of people so she decides to get revenge on them for all they did to her. And guess who's on the list? None other than my sweetheart Dale Sterling. She comes back years later as a hot rich app developer and realizes that everything's completely different than she could ever imagine.

This book is funny, cute, sweet, heartbreaking and filled with crazy banter from friends and family but still awesome to read about. I hated how Dale easily lied to Harley after all that happened in the past between them and I must say he deserved Harley's wrath. I wanted to punch him through the screen for being such a hypocrite, selfish person and liar when he broke her heart. Luckily he redeemed himself after all the proper grovelling he did and she forgave him so it's all good :) It was also amazing to see how the women surrounded her during her break up and I'm glad she was finally able to make friends who would stand by her.

I've been waiting for a very long time to see Dale's perfect match and Harley was 100 percent the LOHL. It was splendid seeing him bewildered and falling hard for the blonde temptress in his life. The steamy scenes were hot and the chemistry was off the charts! I want more of these two! I am so glad Dale could finally experience the lust and passion that had always eluded him.

I love how she was so tough and badass when dealing with others but when it came to Dale she was soft and vulnerable. Dale always seemed so cool, calm and collected but was not afraid to show Harley his true innermost self which only she got to see.

Aspects of this book I really loved are:
a. The scene where they were in bed together and Harley saw him without his prosthetic leg on and kissed his knee. Aww!
b. The close bonding between Harley and Britt alongside her revenge specialist best friend Vivica Drivel
c. The Anal Ease incident which cracked me up and Dale the fake Dom's absurd experiments
d. Maverick and Bananas providing amusement as usual
e. Harley Quinn vibes
f. The ending and what he gives her

All in all, they're hands down my most fav couples in the entire series and that is never going to change. #TeamDarleyforlife
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sarah G.
682 reviews10 followers
April 28, 2017
Goes down as another from my 2017 Bookworm Bingo Challenge – A book from a series you love. The Sterling Shore Series is one very addictive one and I can’t wait for the next!

Harley did not have a very good school experience but a few things made a lasting impression on her. They made her into the person she is today and today she wants revenge for those who have wronged her. One person on that list is none other than our Dale Sterling. Things are about to get interesting with our boy Dale, the saying it’s always the quite ones comes to mind with what they soon get up to. She is going back to Sterling Shore with her head held high and a very nice bank balance due to being on hell of an app guru. She wants them all to know that she has made it when they thought of her as nothing.She’s back in Sterling Shore for revenge, what she gets is much more kinky when Dale gets her within his grasped. To help her on her way with her revenge plan though she needs a little help. That help comes in the form of Vivica, who just so happens to be a cousin of Raya’s. Loved how loyal she was with Harley, she would clearly do anything to protect her girl. A Drivel you don’t want on your bad side. Nice link back to the beginning as well as we are soon to be coming to our end with this series.

Dale has always been the quiet one who saw where everyone else was going wrong in their relationships but doesn’t always see it in his own. When he sees a blonde beauty at the bar he is all up for a little flirting. That is until she says her name ‘Harley’. That one word and he goes back to the one bad thing he did when he was younger. He wants to make amends though and seems to know her better than she would have thought. When he finds out that she is back to seek some sort of revenge on him he does something he is not proud of. He asks the most immature people he knows for advice – Mav and Corbin. Bad idea as their idea is for him to pretend he is a Dom, get him a whole room kitted out and shock her so much that she runs away screaming. Well she might run the first time but he is in for a shock of his own when she says she wants to try what he ‘likes’. If only he knew what was they would be golden. He is about to play the role of a lifetime and you can imagine that there are going to be quite a few mishaps along the way. Note to self: Dale use Google next time when trying to figure out what something is, don’t just guess. Seems he is getting into the role much easier than he thought and loving how she is with him. With everyone else’s relationship he was quick to get them to see that jumping to conclusions was never a good thing. Shame he doesn’t listen to his own advice.

On a side note I love that Harley Quinn is Harley’s favourite hero of sorts because she’s mine too! She’s so crazy bonkers in such a fun way and you can see why Harley would relate to her. Love the ending and what Dale gives her. Totally want it for myself though. Also love that you got to catch up with everybody from the series so far in this one and that Britt gets more of a presence. Can’t wait for her story, I just love what she comes out with.

This series is very, very addictive. When I get a new book I want to read it as fast as possible and then don’t at the same time. Mainly because I know I will then have to wait for the next one to come out. I really can’t wait for Mav’s story next. I want to see the woman who will turn things on its head with him. Then only a two to go after, not sure I will cope when its over. Might just have to have a yearly re-read week to get me back to the fun times had at Sterling Shore.

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Profile Image for Catherine Bibby (Rochelle's Reviews).
939 reviews35 followers
February 6, 2017
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

I am over the moon excited every single time C. M. Owens blesses us with a new book in her Sterling Shores series. She takes us back to take part in some hilarious fun with these gorgeous characters and experience their laughs, tears, and all of their steamy moments. Dale and Harley along with the rest of the Sterling Shores gang bring us BDSM mishaps, palm tingling activities, and lots and lots of lube!

Harley Hayden is a heroine that all of us less than perfect, nerdy girls that were bullied in high school can cheer for. What starts out as a return to Sterling Shores to exact revenge on some old enemies and family quickly turns into a heart mending, belly laughing, and hotter than she ever had it sex. She gets more than she bargains for and finds out how much people can change and grow in eight years. Harley drew me in with her geeky girl turn confident sexy take charge in the board room persona. She charmed me with her sense of humor, her driven ambition, and her kind and forgiving heart.

I couldn't wait to see Dale Sterling find his true match after his fiasco with his cheating fiance Fiona. Dale finally gets a woman who can look past the prosthetic to the gorgeous, caring, quiet yet surprisingly dominating hero that readers have grown attached to in the Sterling Shore series. It was awesome getting to know Dale up close and personal. My heart went out to this Sterling who felt he was the “gateway” Sterling that women would go through to get to his cousins. I fell in love and lust immediately and found him quickly climbing up my list of favorite Sterlings.

C. M. Owens delivers another funny bone tickling, panty melting, emotional ride in the Sterling Shore series and has all of her fans fighting over yet another delicious book boyfriend. I highly recommend Make Me along with ALL of the Sterling Shores stories that will leave you addicted and wanting to remain a guest in the town of Sterling Shores amongst this group of prankster loving, passionate family and friends. C. M. Owens never fails to amuse and amaze with her words and ensnare us in her fictional worlds. She is my go to author for a night of uncontrollable, tears rolling down your face laughter and heat.
Profile Image for Aubree.
152 reviews21 followers
March 11, 2017
I have no idea how I could possibly love this series more.

Dale Sterling, the level-headed, nice guy of the group, has finally met or should I say re-met a woman who drives him just as crazy as his rambunctious cousins. Harley Hayden has had a tough life and it didn't get better when Dale stood her up for their High School Prom. Now, years later, she's a successful business owner and finally confident in her appearance. And she's vowed revenge on those who tormented her, Dale included. So what is a level-headed man to do when he gets wind of said revenge: let his cousins talk him into becoming a sexual Dom, of course.

Dale and Harley are both so broken inside. They hide it well, but neither really has the confidence to believe they are worthy of a good, lasting relationship. Dale believes himself to be the 'gateway' Sterling and Harley still sees herself as the sweet nerd her father had no time to care for or even respect.

Now throw in some numbing anal lube, a vibrating bullet, and a group of too many people in each other's business and what has the makings of a sweet romance turns into an out of control, laugh out loud romantic comedy. But it wouldn't be Sterling Shore without a crazy prank or two, a few misunderstandings, and somebody getting punched!

I loved Dale before Make Me and I love him still, but Harley stole my heart. She's now my girl crush! I want to play video games with her and nerd out over Star Wars! I know she has to have some Harry Potter costumes in her closet for us to go LARPing in the park!

While I laughed my ass off at some moments and fell for them in others, the ending was my favorite part by far. Without giving anything away, I have to say that Dale became the ULTIMATE boyfriend when he proved how much he knew Harley inside and out! One piece of jewelry spoke volumes!

I'm never going to find a guy to live up to the standards I now have! Thank you so much for that CM Owens! UGH! <3 <3 <3
Profile Image for BookSmackedMel.
916 reviews386 followers
February 5, 2017
#FloggerProblems #ThatIsNotAButtPlug #VaginaNumbing

Every single time a book in this series releases I fucking devour it. There is a reason this series is my all time favorite. It's pee your pants hilarious, with swoony male characters, some kick ass female leads and each book gets better and better.

Dale Sterling the mature reasonable one. He is usually I would say the level headed one of the group sitting back and observing all around him, the voice of reason you could say. Well enter Harley, a girl from his past and all reason goes out the door. She's back for revenge, and when he finds out he thinks to himself let's turn the tables.

What you get is pure Sterling Shore comedy mixed with romance, a little bit of heart ache. Lines are blurred, intentions are misunderstood and shit goes wrong in the most ridiculously hilarious ways.

I laughed, I smiled, I giggled, I snorted, I cried.

Dale made his way into my heart and while he is usually the quite one of the gang almost in the background I completely fell in love with him. Harley is tough, independent and determined and focused. The story of her past is heart breaking and you will want to be her friend instantly.

Of course the entire gang appears in this book and it wouldn't be complete without them.

The gang of Sterling Shore will take a hold of you and just stay in your heart. There is just something about them that makes me smile, wishing they were real and I could be part of their world.

If there is one series that I would say you absolutely without a doubt must read. This is it, you don't need to read book 1 to read this as it is a standalone but I would be remiss if I said that this entire series isn't a must read.
Profile Image for Autumn Jones.
43 reviews18 followers
February 7, 2017
Make me - C.m Owens

This has IT ALL! The sterling shore series does not disappoint! Their will never be too many books in this series, nothing slips, for me they're just perfect!

This had me giggling, LAUGHING, covering my face, cringing, crying and a couple of things really hit me in the gut that I can relate to that had me an emotional mess. But that's not a bad thing, sometimes it's good to read these things outside my head, and for someone else to have written them without even knowing my turmoil, helps me feel less alone and it's very therapeutic, even though tear jerking at the time.

Their are also so many uplifting moments in this story, we still have the 'killer moments' where you know the plot turns evil but their was also a lot in the book that really made my heart smile. I'd love to tell you what bits but I don't do spoilers and it will be lovely for you to read them fresh.

#girlpower scrap that... nope.. #womanpower

I do not know how Cm thinks half of this stuff up! Her mind is incredible.
I just loved this so much! Thank you for another 5* read xxx

Autumn Jones
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