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Steel Brothers Saga #2
Obsession
Your Escape Into A World of Dark Mysteries & Spicy Romance.
Jade Roberts is in love with Talon Steel but no longer welcome in his home. While she resolves to move on, she still longs for the passion she and Talon shared…and when her boss asks her to dig up information on the Steels, she’s only too happy to comply. Talon and his brothers are hiding something, and Jade is determined to find out what it is.
The moment Talon saw Jade he wanted her, ached for her, craved her…and now his desire has become his obsession. He knows she deserves better than his broken soul, but he can’t stay away from her, and he finally confesses his love. If he and Jade are to have a future, he knows he must make peace with the dark shadows and horrors of his past.
But as Talon begins his journey of healing, Jade uncovers some startling secrets…
Jade Roberts is in love with Talon Steel but no longer welcome in his home. While she resolves to move on, she still longs for the passion she and Talon shared…and when her boss asks her to dig up information on the Steels, she’s only too happy to comply. Talon and his brothers are hiding something, and Jade is determined to find out what it is.
The moment Talon saw Jade he wanted her, ached for her, craved her…and now his desire has become his obsession. He knows she deserves better than his broken soul, but he can’t stay away from her, and he finally confesses his love. If he and Jade are to have a future, he knows he must make peace with the dark shadows and horrors of his past.
But as Talon begins his journey of healing, Jade uncovers some startling secrets…
ebook
First published July 19, 2016
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About the author
Helen Hardt
203 books8,324 followers#1 New York Times, #1 USA Today, and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author Helen Hardt's passion for the written word began with the books her mother read to her at bedtime. She wrote her first story at age six and hasn’t stopped since. In addition to being an award winning author of contemporary and historical romance and erotica, she’s a mother, an attorney, a black belt in Taekwondo, a grammar geek, an appreciator of fine red wine, and a lover of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. She writes from her home in Colorado, where she lives with her family.
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Unchained (Blood Bond Saga: One) is FREE!! Get it here:
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Join my official street team on Facebook, Hardt & Soul, for exclusive excerpts and giveaways! https://www.facebook.com/groups/hardt...
Unchained (Blood Bond Saga: One) is FREE!! Get it here:
Kindle: https://amzn.to/2OccbIv
Nook: http://bit.ly/2u5tFOc
iBooks: https://apple.co/2KZpwSi
Google Play: http://bit.ly/2N0srL2
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2u7bHe0
Breathless (Steel Brothers Saga Book 10) is AVAILABLE! Get it here👇
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2NV9oa5
Nook: http://bit.ly/2zEclDb
iBooks: https://apple.co/2xWg393
Google Play: http://bit.ly/2xYJ70H
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2xKZGwJ
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/GR_Breathless
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,139 reviews
December 17, 2016
And I'm back for round two in this mess!
So, in the last book, Talon, the ever-polite gentleman and "hero" of this book, kicked his love interest, Jade, out of the house she'd been sharing with him and his sister (who is also Jade's best friend), even though he knows that she literally has nowhere to really go that isn't tied to him, because Jade is new to the area and the only friends she really has are all related to Talon. What a great guy and totally worthy of love!
The second book doesn't get any better. I am seriously baffled how this book has such a high rating, because Talon is a fucking asshole, and I'm going to say it right here, right now - having a shitty childhood, no matter what kind of abuse you were subjected to, does not give you the right to be a fucking asshole to everyone as an adult. It doesn't. And before anyone says ~*~oh he was abused~*~ and you will never understand his ~*~pain~*~, let me tell you - yeah, I actually can, and I don't use it as an excuse to be a fucking jackass like Talon does.
Anyway, Jade and Talon have entered into a destructive relationship where they can't stay away from one another, even though they both know that the best thing they could do for one another is to break up for good and stay far, far away from each other for the rest of their lives. And all this in barely a month, even though Jade, at the beginning of book one, had just been jilted at the altar by her (now ex) fiance. I'm not saying that the girl can't move on, especially since Colin is ALSO a jackass (she seems to attract them), but this tru wuv romance that Talon and Jade have going on just screams "HORRIBLE REBOUND RELATIONSHIP MISTAKE" to me.
Apparently the author wants to pretend that Jade is a "strong woman" or whatever, but Jade's actions never portray her as strong, independent, or anything. The most "independent" thing she does is get her own apartment, but as soon as Talon says that he's coming to stay with her, she backs down fast and meekly allows him to do whatever he wants.
Talon is a grade-A alphahole.
Oh, but it gets better, because we soon all see how messed up this relationship and Jade is because of it.
And that is how fucking MESSED UP this relationship is, and I just look at all of these four and five star reviews on Goodreads and I am puzzled beyond all shit, because I DO NOT UNDERSTAND how anyone can think these books are "romantic." Jade and Talon's relationship is not romantic. You would not want this kind of relationship in your real life. And I say that as someone who loves fucked up shit - but, at the same time, I will admit the entire time how fucked up and unhealthy the relationship is.
Also, I fucking hate it when authors end with a huge cliffhanger at the end of every book. It feels like a cheap ploy to keep people reading, and that is exactly what it is in these books. The bummer is, the whole "mystery" could have been intriguing if it was well-written. You don't need all of the ridiculous sex scenes and Talon being a grade-A asshole to make the book interesting - but apparently, that is the direction the author chose for this series, and that's disappointing.
Unfortunately, I'm going to have to read the third book, so I am sure that I will have tons of more ranting to come in the near future about this series.
So, in the last book, Talon, the ever-polite gentleman and "hero" of this book, kicked his love interest, Jade, out of the house she'd been sharing with him and his sister (who is also Jade's best friend), even though he knows that she literally has nowhere to really go that isn't tied to him, because Jade is new to the area and the only friends she really has are all related to Talon. What a great guy and totally worthy of love!
The second book doesn't get any better. I am seriously baffled how this book has such a high rating, because Talon is a fucking asshole, and I'm going to say it right here, right now - having a shitty childhood, no matter what kind of abuse you were subjected to, does not give you the right to be a fucking asshole to everyone as an adult. It doesn't. And before anyone says ~*~oh he was abused~*~ and you will never understand his ~*~pain~*~, let me tell you - yeah, I actually can, and I don't use it as an excuse to be a fucking jackass like Talon does.
Anyway, Jade and Talon have entered into a destructive relationship where they can't stay away from one another, even though they both know that the best thing they could do for one another is to break up for good and stay far, far away from each other for the rest of their lives. And all this in barely a month, even though Jade, at the beginning of book one, had just been jilted at the altar by her (now ex) fiance. I'm not saying that the girl can't move on, especially since Colin is ALSO a jackass (she seems to attract them), but this tru wuv romance that Talon and Jade have going on just screams "HORRIBLE REBOUND RELATIONSHIP MISTAKE" to me.
Apparently the author wants to pretend that Jade is a "strong woman" or whatever, but Jade's actions never portray her as strong, independent, or anything. The most "independent" thing she does is get her own apartment, but as soon as Talon says that he's coming to stay with her, she backs down fast and meekly allows him to do whatever he wants.
Talon is a grade-A alphahole.
Oh, but it gets better, because we soon all see how messed up this relationship and Jade is because of it.
And that is how fucking MESSED UP this relationship is, and I just look at all of these four and five star reviews on Goodreads and I am puzzled beyond all shit, because I DO NOT UNDERSTAND how anyone can think these books are "romantic." Jade and Talon's relationship is not romantic. You would not want this kind of relationship in your real life. And I say that as someone who loves fucked up shit - but, at the same time, I will admit the entire time how fucked up and unhealthy the relationship is.
Also, I fucking hate it when authors end with a huge cliffhanger at the end of every book. It feels like a cheap ploy to keep people reading, and that is exactly what it is in these books. The bummer is, the whole "mystery" could have been intriguing if it was well-written. You don't need all of the ridiculous sex scenes and Talon being a grade-A asshole to make the book interesting - but apparently, that is the direction the author chose for this series, and that's disappointing.
Unfortunately, I'm going to have to read the third book, so I am sure that I will have tons of more ranting to come in the near future about this series.
August 3, 2016
Good Lord the boss has a missing toe!
Lord have mercy another cliffhanger this romance has woven into a mystery of who done it! We're getting a little closer to who kidnapped and sexually assaulted a little boy over 25 years ago!
Lord have mercy another cliffhanger this romance has woven into a mystery of who done it! We're getting a little closer to who kidnapped and sexually assaulted a little boy over 25 years ago!
August 14, 2016
Omfg I actually shouted no at the end ... Brilliant story .. I love this story ,heartbreaking,gripping it justs gets better and the plot thickens ... Can't wait for next book and can't believe it's not out until September gutted
February 6, 2021
I am obsess with this series and adore Miss Hardt writing skill. She is a very talented writer. Obsession is the continueance of Talon and Jade story.
Slowly and painfully, Talon horrific past revealed. I know can feel his traumatic behavior. He is such broken, lonely and scared little boy. Even he is now growing as a man, deep down he is still that scared little boy.
In such twisted way, Miss Hardt brings us in a gripping suspense. I love how Miss Hardt contructs the suspense and the romance together in perfect story.
I can not wait to read the next book.
4 stars
Slowly and painfully, Talon horrific past revealed. I know can feel his traumatic behavior. He is such broken, lonely and scared little boy. Even he is now growing as a man, deep down he is still that scared little boy.
In such twisted way, Miss Hardt brings us in a gripping suspense. I love how Miss Hardt contructs the suspense and the romance together in perfect story.
I can not wait to read the next book.
4 stars
February 17, 2017
Why am I reading this series....
In the first book I was a little surprised that both main characters had extreme difficulty conversing with one another. Usually I expect a couple with intense chemistry, like Talon and Jade, to enjoy each other's company and want to talk for hours, continually learning that they share the same passions or interests. But, Talon and Jade have no similar interests, not even music, and I am at a loss to think of a single topic that they could talk about. This seems to be the author's dilemma as well because every time it looks like they might have a serious conversation, they just stop and start having sex. It sounds like their sex is fun, but it got the point where it was obviously just filler because the author can't write conversations. Having sex four times in the morning and still having time to get to work? That takes dedication and possibly a want to never talk to or actually spend quality time with the person you are supposedly 'dating'.
I really hope this plot gets wrapped up in the next book because it really isn't complex enough to stretch as far as Hardt has tried to do. We are aware that Talon was abused from almost his first chapter and now the stories and therapy or getting a little repetitive. TWO BOOKS and Jade still has no idea or even a guess that Talon must've gone through something traumatic as a child? She's a little dense...
In the first book I was a little surprised that both main characters had extreme difficulty conversing with one another. Usually I expect a couple with intense chemistry, like Talon and Jade, to enjoy each other's company and want to talk for hours, continually learning that they share the same passions or interests. But, Talon and Jade have no similar interests, not even music, and I am at a loss to think of a single topic that they could talk about. This seems to be the author's dilemma as well because every time it looks like they might have a serious conversation, they just stop and start having sex. It sounds like their sex is fun, but it got the point where it was obviously just filler because the author can't write conversations. Having sex four times in the morning and still having time to get to work? That takes dedication and possibly a want to never talk to or actually spend quality time with the person you are supposedly 'dating'.
I really hope this plot gets wrapped up in the next book because it really isn't complex enough to stretch as far as Hardt has tried to do. We are aware that Talon was abused from almost his first chapter and now the stories and therapy or getting a little repetitive. TWO BOOKS and Jade still has no idea or even a guess that Talon must've gone through something traumatic as a child? She's a little dense...
March 20, 2021
Al doilea volum al seriei continuă povestea plină de suspans și adrenalină a lui Talon Steel. Acesta luptă în continuare cu proprii săi demoni, cu emoțiile și sentimentele pe care le are față de Jade, cea mai bună prietenă a surorii lui.
Totuși, ce este diferit față de primul volum al seriei? Faptul că își acceptă sentimentele și este dispus să facă eforturi pentru a avea o relație cu tânăra. Pentru el a fost un șoc să constate că o iubește și că își dorește un copil cu ea.
Dar în continuare are secrete față de ea, iar coșmarurile îi tulbură nopțile. Atunci când se trezește că era cât pe ce să o rănească pe Jade în timpul unui coșmar se sperie foarte tare și este hotărât să ceară ajutor de specialitate.
Pe de altă parte, Jade desfășoară propria investigație în ceea ce îi privește pe frații Steel, în numele procurorului districtual în numele căruia lucrează... iar treptat, ceea ce află este șocant...
“Obsesie” este cea de-a doua parte din povestea lui Talon, un personaj cu o forță psihică impresionantă dacă privim la copilăria lui traumatizantă și la cicatricile care i-au marcat sufletul și care nici după 25 de ani nu s-au vindecat.
Oare iubirea lor va fi suficient de puternică încât să îi ajute să vindece rănile?
Din păcate, răspunsul la această întrebare nu îl aflăm încă.
Să sperăm că nu vom aștepta ani până se va traduce și volumul următor.
Am avut parte de o lectură cu multe emoții bulversante, care fac din cititor un adevărat yo-yo emoțional, oferind o mare doză de suspans și o urmă de thriller, pe lângă scenele fierbinți și pline de sentiment.
Totuși, ce este diferit față de primul volum al seriei? Faptul că își acceptă sentimentele și este dispus să facă eforturi pentru a avea o relație cu tânăra. Pentru el a fost un șoc să constate că o iubește și că își dorește un copil cu ea.
Dar în continuare are secrete față de ea, iar coșmarurile îi tulbură nopțile. Atunci când se trezește că era cât pe ce să o rănească pe Jade în timpul unui coșmar se sperie foarte tare și este hotărât să ceară ajutor de specialitate.
Pe de altă parte, Jade desfășoară propria investigație în ceea ce îi privește pe frații Steel, în numele procurorului districtual în numele căruia lucrează... iar treptat, ceea ce află este șocant...
“Obsesie” este cea de-a doua parte din povestea lui Talon, un personaj cu o forță psihică impresionantă dacă privim la copilăria lui traumatizantă și la cicatricile care i-au marcat sufletul și care nici după 25 de ani nu s-au vindecat.
Oare iubirea lor va fi suficient de puternică încât să îi ajute să vindece rănile?
Din păcate, răspunsul la această întrebare nu îl aflăm încă.
Să sperăm că nu vom aștepta ani până se va traduce și volumul următor.
Am avut parte de o lectură cu multe emoții bulversante, care fac din cititor un adevărat yo-yo emoțional, oferind o mare doză de suspans și o urmă de thriller, pe lângă scenele fierbinți și pline de sentiment.
January 8, 2017
I am a sucker for punishment....
I read the first book in the series and I liked it enough. I decided to read the second because I was confident this storyline could be concluded in two books. Was I wrong...
This book was the same as the first: girl allows herself to be boy's emotional and physical garbage can. Girl asks boy a question concerning the legitimacy of their relationship. Boy shuts her up/distracts her with sex. Girl knows aversion/distraction tactic, yet still has sex with boy. Boy loves girl, but pushes her away... yada yada yada...
It got old really quick. But being I am a sucker for punishment, I'm going to read book 3. Mainly because my mama didn't raise a quitter and I just have to see how much longer this writer can drag this crap out...
I read the first book in the series and I liked it enough. I decided to read the second because I was confident this storyline could be concluded in two books. Was I wrong...
This book was the same as the first: girl allows herself to be boy's emotional and physical garbage can. Girl asks boy a question concerning the legitimacy of their relationship. Boy shuts her up/distracts her with sex. Girl knows aversion/distraction tactic, yet still has sex with boy. Boy loves girl, but pushes her away... yada yada yada...
It got old really quick. But being I am a sucker for punishment, I'm going to read book 3. Mainly because my mama didn't raise a quitter and I just have to see how much longer this writer can drag this crap out...
November 22, 2016
This book was so perfectly titled. I have become seriously obsessed with this series!
While Book 1, "Craving", was a wonderful beginning to the Steel Brothers saga, Book 2 is where the bold, fearless beauty of Helen Hardt's writing bursts into brilliant life. I was so blown away by this section of Talon and Jade's story, I'm not even certain where to start on the raving. Let's just say that while I adore an amazing tormented hero, it's also tough to give me one that pulls me deeply into his soul. Well, Talon Steel has now hit my Top 5 of Best Tormented Guys. GAH, how he has twisted me, broken me, simply compelled me to fall in love with him! Jade is his perfect heroine: smart, strong, persistent, and most of all, compassionate. I also loved how the supporting cast were all given more development and "time on stage", helping to move this incredible plot along.
Sometimes, you can think of a thousand superlatives for a book--and sometimes, you just have to collapse on the couch and surrender to just one word.
WOW.
While Book 1, "Craving", was a wonderful beginning to the Steel Brothers saga, Book 2 is where the bold, fearless beauty of Helen Hardt's writing bursts into brilliant life. I was so blown away by this section of Talon and Jade's story, I'm not even certain where to start on the raving. Let's just say that while I adore an amazing tormented hero, it's also tough to give me one that pulls me deeply into his soul. Well, Talon Steel has now hit my Top 5 of Best Tormented Guys. GAH, how he has twisted me, broken me, simply compelled me to fall in love with him! Jade is his perfect heroine: smart, strong, persistent, and most of all, compassionate. I also loved how the supporting cast were all given more development and "time on stage", helping to move this incredible plot along.
Sometimes, you can think of a thousand superlatives for a book--and sometimes, you just have to collapse on the couch and surrender to just one word.
WOW.
March 12, 2025
Phoenix rising!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🖤💙💜❤️💚
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌍
Character development: ☹️🥲😋😘🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Jade Robert’s - she is a lawyer, who just passed the bar exam and got a job at the city attorney’s office office in Snow Creek Colorado. She had been living with her wealthy best friend Marge Steel at the family ranch. Before coming to town, she had been engaged to a man who left her at the alter. Since she got here, she has been having a relationship with Marge’s brother Talon, though they both say they are just enjoying each other and having fun.
The Hero: Talon Steel - He is the middle brother between Jonah and Ryan, their sister Marge is the baby. He has been severely damaged by his past, and not his time in the marines in Iraq. He had a traumatic childhood, and he can’t get over the events that continue to haunt him. He often devolves into his memories, suffers from panic attacks, and nightmares. He rarely sleeps and can often be found sitting in the kitchen in the middle of the night, in the dark, just staring at a glass of water.
The story: The Steel family has secrets, and Jade isn’t the only one who doesn’t know them. There is so much yet unknown. Like why was did Marge’s birth certificate have her name as Angela? Why did they tell Marge that her mothers maiden name was Warren when she saw old documents showing it was Wade? Why did their mother kill herself when Marge was only two years old? What happened to Talon when he was a boy? And how did his brothers get away and why do they feel guilt about it? Why did Talon kick Jade out of the house? And lastly, is Nico one of Talons past tormentors?
This audiobook was told in multiple points of view via dual narration and was narrated by Neva Navarre and Sebastian York. Sebastian is one of my favorite male narrators. He has a deep, gravelly voice which sounds so sexy, especially in the intimate scenes. Neva Navarre was new to me, and her voice is starting to grow on me, I liked her better this time than in the last book. This book was steamy, like the first one and the story kept and held my interest throughout. We did get a lot of the answers in this book, but there are still plenty more to be had.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🖤💙💜❤️💚
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏🌍
Character development: ☹️🥲😋😘🥰
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Jade Robert’s - she is a lawyer, who just passed the bar exam and got a job at the city attorney’s office office in Snow Creek Colorado. She had been living with her wealthy best friend Marge Steel at the family ranch. Before coming to town, she had been engaged to a man who left her at the alter. Since she got here, she has been having a relationship with Marge’s brother Talon, though they both say they are just enjoying each other and having fun.
The Hero: Talon Steel - He is the middle brother between Jonah and Ryan, their sister Marge is the baby. He has been severely damaged by his past, and not his time in the marines in Iraq. He had a traumatic childhood, and he can’t get over the events that continue to haunt him. He often devolves into his memories, suffers from panic attacks, and nightmares. He rarely sleeps and can often be found sitting in the kitchen in the middle of the night, in the dark, just staring at a glass of water.
The story: The Steel family has secrets, and Jade isn’t the only one who doesn’t know them. There is so much yet unknown. Like why was did Marge’s birth certificate have her name as Angela? Why did they tell Marge that her mothers maiden name was Warren when she saw old documents showing it was Wade? Why did their mother kill herself when Marge was only two years old? What happened to Talon when he was a boy? And how did his brothers get away and why do they feel guilt about it? Why did Talon kick Jade out of the house? And lastly, is Nico one of Talons past tormentors?
This audiobook was told in multiple points of view via dual narration and was narrated by Neva Navarre and Sebastian York. Sebastian is one of my favorite male narrators. He has a deep, gravelly voice which sounds so sexy, especially in the intimate scenes. Neva Navarre was new to me, and her voice is starting to grow on me, I liked her better this time than in the last book. This book was steamy, like the first one and the story kept and held my interest throughout. We did get a lot of the answers in this book, but there are still plenty more to be had.
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September 1, 2017
I am hooked on this series! Full of intrigue and suspense, mysteries, love, scandal, and sexiness. Another crazy ending, not a happily ever after- I'm guessing none of them will have that since it's a connected series. Helen Hardt gives us one more tiny piece of the puzzle but then gives us more questions, leaving me more lost than when I started. I really enjoyed it and can't wait to dive into the next!
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July 21, 2016
Josie's Review 4.5 STARS
Obsession picks right where we left off from the first book. In this latest installment the author digs further into Talon’s past and we get a greater glimpse into his PTSD. Please heed the authors warnings regarding the flashbacks. They are harsh and contain physical and sexual abuse of a minor. Helen Hardt has done such an amazing job with showing readers who Talon Steel really is and what makes this man tick. I cried a lot while reading this book but I also experienced a great sense of hope and pride.
Talon’s is very confused in the start of this book. He does not understand his feelings for Jade only that he has an intense need to have her near and to consume her. He seeks help from his brothers to try and make sense of his feelings while trying to battle his demons. When the author takes readers back into Talon’s past it broke my heart. It literally brought me to ugly tears. I’m so grateful that we see this because it explains his demeanor and hesitation with Jade.
Jade is truly a strong character. She loves Talon and makes no excuses to the contrary. She wants to be there for him and get him the help he needs but she also understands that Talon has to want the same. I really love that she never gives up on Talon. When he seeks her out she is there for him and tries to offer him the only support she can give. I absolutely loved Jades commitment to Talon and the Steel’s. She knows there is more to the story and I really admired her determination to find out what is really behind her bosses need to destroy that family.
Talon really grows in this book. He explores his feelings for Jade and tries hard to right his wrongs. The author does an amazing job with expressing his thoughts and turmoil when it came to Jade. It broke my heart that this big war hero couldn’t understand his feelings or couldn’t equate what they meant. This intense love between Jade and Talon isn’t the story here, there is the mystery of Talon’s past and the secrets behind the Steel family that really is the driving force of this story. Talon and Jade are made for each other, their relationship feels so natural and you want so badly for things to work out for them. The journey has just begun for Talon and Jade and the secrets to his pasts are just starting to surface, can Talon and Jades love survive when all is revealed? You really need to pick up this incredible, deep and intense read. You won’t be sorry.
July 19, 2017
Release Date: July 19, 2016
Genre: Contemporary Romance (with some darkness)
Series: The Steel Brothers Saga #2
:: 5 Pretty Little Stars ::
NOTE: This book is not a standalone. You have to read the first book in the series (Craving) prior to reading this one as it is the continuation of Jade and Talon’s story.
This series is amazing. Helen Hardt really knows how to bring out the darkness and pain that reside in the character’s life which allows readers to become invested and emotionally involved in the story. Now, as I said in my note, this book is the continuation and Talon and Jade’s love story. Their love story, while it has its sweet pieces, is ultimately dark and tragic because Talon is unable to get over what happened to him when he was 10 years old (you’ll know all about this if you have read CRAVING). But we do get to see a lot of character growth in this novel when it comes to Talon, which makes him all the more relatable and lovable for all readers. We also get more of a backstory in terms of Talon’s tragic past, and get a little glimpse of who these monsters that kidnapped him are. All of this put together makes for a very strong book that will leave readers not only haunted, but extremely satisfied. OH… And when you read the ending?!?! HOLY COW. A major plot twist. Yikes! If you haven’t read this series, I strongly suggest picking it up. The books are pretty fast paced (I read both in just a few hours) and the story sucks you in from the get go. I honestly cannot wait until the final book in Talon and Jade’s series comes out next month. I simply NEED to know what is happening! Oh, yes… It does end in a cliffhanger too…
This is only the second book that I have had the pleasure of reading by Helen Hardt and I have to say I am quickly becoming a huge fan of her work. Her writing style is on point- there has never been any confusion as to which characters are giving us their POV’s- she weaves a tragic yet beautiful storyline that immediately hooks all readers- and she uses vivid descriptions about the past and present. All of this put together makes for a fantastic story and I think all readers should give her work a try!
Highly recommended!
Genre: Contemporary Romance (with some darkness)
Series: The Steel Brothers Saga #2
:: 5 Pretty Little Stars ::
NOTE: This book is not a standalone. You have to read the first book in the series (Craving) prior to reading this one as it is the continuation of Jade and Talon’s story.
This series is amazing. Helen Hardt really knows how to bring out the darkness and pain that reside in the character’s life which allows readers to become invested and emotionally involved in the story. Now, as I said in my note, this book is the continuation and Talon and Jade’s love story. Their love story, while it has its sweet pieces, is ultimately dark and tragic because Talon is unable to get over what happened to him when he was 10 years old (you’ll know all about this if you have read CRAVING). But we do get to see a lot of character growth in this novel when it comes to Talon, which makes him all the more relatable and lovable for all readers. We also get more of a backstory in terms of Talon’s tragic past, and get a little glimpse of who these monsters that kidnapped him are. All of this put together makes for a very strong book that will leave readers not only haunted, but extremely satisfied. OH… And when you read the ending?!?! HOLY COW. A major plot twist. Yikes! If you haven’t read this series, I strongly suggest picking it up. The books are pretty fast paced (I read both in just a few hours) and the story sucks you in from the get go. I honestly cannot wait until the final book in Talon and Jade’s series comes out next month. I simply NEED to know what is happening! Oh, yes… It does end in a cliffhanger too…
This is only the second book that I have had the pleasure of reading by Helen Hardt and I have to say I am quickly becoming a huge fan of her work. Her writing style is on point- there has never been any confusion as to which characters are giving us their POV’s- she weaves a tragic yet beautiful storyline that immediately hooks all readers- and she uses vivid descriptions about the past and present. All of this put together makes for a fantastic story and I think all readers should give her work a try!
Highly recommended!
December 15, 2018
These books are a mess! Are they somewhat entertaining? yes! Are they supper steamy? Yes! But are they a bloody disaster? Also yes...
January 29, 2025
2.25 ⭐️⭐️✨
This one might be a tad better than the first book but that’s honestly not saying a lot. I like the characters well enough and the storyline (while extremely difficult to read the flashbacks) would be good in the right hands. The writing is just bad. That’s about as straightforward as I can be about it. I’ve continued with the series because I want to see what happens with Talon and Jade and I’m reading it for a challenge. It’s a book that should take me a few hours to read but it took over 3 days because I had to read/listen to other books because I can only handle so much of this author. The ratings would say a lot of people like her writing but I’m wondering what in the hell else they’ve been reading if they think this is good. I don’t intend that to sound mean, I’m honestly curious.
This one might be a tad better than the first book but that’s honestly not saying a lot. I like the characters well enough and the storyline (while extremely difficult to read the flashbacks) would be good in the right hands. The writing is just bad. That’s about as straightforward as I can be about it. I’ve continued with the series because I want to see what happens with Talon and Jade and I’m reading it for a challenge. It’s a book that should take me a few hours to read but it took over 3 days because I had to read/listen to other books because I can only handle so much of this author. The ratings would say a lot of people like her writing but I’m wondering what in the hell else they’ve been reading if they think this is good. I don’t intend that to sound mean, I’m honestly curious.
May 1, 2025
1.5 🌟 den her va faktisk bedre enn den 1. asså takk gud for litt character development. Helt grei bok, fast passed, held oppmerksomheta mi sia det plutselig blei en krim bok med spice? Uansett eneste kritikken e at d e så lett å «løs» hintan som blir gitt. To av gjerningsmennene gjetta æ mæ t i bok nr 1 liksom. Jaja æ må les 3ern å da bare for å vit ka som skjer
July 18, 2016
Review by Wendy @ Bare Naked Words
Helen Hardt delivers the continuation of the Steel Brothers saga, with Craving she left us on a cliff hanger, and I loved her for it. Now she is back with Obsession, bringing us more of Jade and Talon’s difficult journey of discovery, danger and healing.
Obsession continues right where Craving ended and suddenly you find yourself right back with them, the feelings of frustration and anger at Talon resurfacing immediately, it was like there had been no wait at all for the next instalment.
Written in dual POV, we get an insight in to Talon’s darkness, while Jade tries to unravel the secrets of the Steel Family’s past. It soon becomes clear that some of those secrets may be better left buried, but as will all secrets, you can only truly heal if you face them head on. And its how Jade and Talon face these challenges that drives this story and keeps us riveted.
There is no denying that in Talon, Helen has given us a big brooding masterful man, but I found him cold on occasion, over bearing other times and definitely hot headed, but I want to try to understand him more and when secrets start to be uncovered it is obvious that we will still have more questions than answers.
Anyone else want Colin to get his come-uppance, yeah me too, he’s a piece of work that one. I wanted Talon to kick his conniving arse.
I want to tell you more, I really do, but you have to discover for yourselves what each page brings. Helen has weaved a delicately balanced story of intrigue, secrets and passion, which practically melts the pages.
And then another cliffhanger! I flipped the page and there was a blank page and I thought “nicely done Ms Hardt, nicely flipping well done” I love a cliffhanger.
Helen Hardt delivers the continuation of the Steel Brothers saga, with Craving she left us on a cliff hanger, and I loved her for it. Now she is back with Obsession, bringing us more of Jade and Talon’s difficult journey of discovery, danger and healing.
Obsession continues right where Craving ended and suddenly you find yourself right back with them, the feelings of frustration and anger at Talon resurfacing immediately, it was like there had been no wait at all for the next instalment.
Written in dual POV, we get an insight in to Talon’s darkness, while Jade tries to unravel the secrets of the Steel Family’s past. It soon becomes clear that some of those secrets may be better left buried, but as will all secrets, you can only truly heal if you face them head on. And its how Jade and Talon face these challenges that drives this story and keeps us riveted.
There is no denying that in Talon, Helen has given us a big brooding masterful man, but I found him cold on occasion, over bearing other times and definitely hot headed, but I want to try to understand him more and when secrets start to be uncovered it is obvious that we will still have more questions than answers.
Anyone else want Colin to get his come-uppance, yeah me too, he’s a piece of work that one. I wanted Talon to kick his conniving arse.
I want to tell you more, I really do, but you have to discover for yourselves what each page brings. Helen has weaved a delicately balanced story of intrigue, secrets and passion, which practically melts the pages.
And then another cliffhanger! I flipped the page and there was a blank page and I thought “nicely done Ms Hardt, nicely flipping well done” I love a cliffhanger.
February 20, 2018
Sheesh! What a mess! I was hoping as the story progressed it would get better but sadly that was not the case. This book seemed like more of a filler than an actual progression of the story. Lots and lots of sex. So much so that I found myself skipping multiple pages (yes pages) to get past all of it and I NEVER like to skip a word in a book but it was just to much! Talon and Jade’s answer to all the problems in their relationship is sex. I forbid you to get a tattoo! Let’s have sex. I catch you having dinner with your ex and it pissed me off! Let’s go have sex! You choked me in my sleep but I trust you completely! Tie me up and let’s have sex. Where’s the dialogue? Where’s the communication? Where’s the growth as a couple?
Sadly I am to far into the plot to stop now (hence the 2 star rating) so I will continue with the third book which I believe will wrap up this particular storyline and I can leave the Steele’s behind for good.
Sadly I am to far into the plot to stop now (hence the 2 star rating) so I will continue with the third book which I believe will wrap up this particular storyline and I can leave the Steele’s behind for good.
December 31, 2016
Four and a half stars.
Review as per book one
Review as per book one
November 6, 2021
I'm still liking this series. For being the second book into Talon and Jade's story, it's mainly focused on Talon and Jade getting closer but the secrets Talon are keeping from her does keep them at a distance still.
Talon is starting to remember some things from his traumatic event that I hope we will see these men eventually get arrested and off the street. I do find it hard to listen to what he went through when he remembers things.I'm hoping we will see more of a conclusion to this part in book 3.
Talon is starting to remember some things from his traumatic event that I hope we will see these men eventually get arrested and off the street. I do find it hard to listen to what he went through when he remembers things.I'm hoping we will see more of a conclusion to this part in book 3.
July 12, 2021
It was not my favorite romance book by faaar, but something about it made me read it quickly and wanting to see what will happen next. That element made me gave it 3 stars. :)
July 13, 2016
Fasten your seatbelts people, this is going to be a bumpy ride! This story picks up right where Craving left off, Talon is miserable after asking Jade to leave. Jade is miserable and lost too and doesn't know quite what to do. After talking to Marj she decides to go back to Snow Creek where she resumes her job. Jade's boss gives her a new assignment, he wants her to investigate the Steel family, she knows it's for nefarious reasons but she has to have answers. Talon is desperately in love with Jade and realizes he has to get help if he wants a relationship with her. Things really start to heat up between the two, but there is trouble ahead! Secrets and lies are coming to light, will Jade and Talon's love be able to survive?
Wow, this story has so many twist and turns, my head is spinning! It reads like a soap opera, and I love it! Talon is the epitome of a tortured hero. His flashbacks to his kidnapping will shock you and break your heart. He has endured so much, and I want so badly for him to get help. Every time he pushed Jade away I was saying "No Talon, don't do it! Get some help, it will be ok!" He really got to me. Jade is a great character because she is smart and tenacious, and has absolutely no fear. Talon and Jade's chemistry sizzles and the love scenes will melt your heart and your Kindle. Whew, good stuff! I'm really enjoying this series and I can't wait for the next book!
Wow, this story has so many twist and turns, my head is spinning! It reads like a soap opera, and I love it! Talon is the epitome of a tortured hero. His flashbacks to his kidnapping will shock you and break your heart. He has endured so much, and I want so badly for him to get help. Every time he pushed Jade away I was saying "No Talon, don't do it! Get some help, it will be ok!" He really got to me. Jade is a great character because she is smart and tenacious, and has absolutely no fear. Talon and Jade's chemistry sizzles and the love scenes will melt your heart and your Kindle. Whew, good stuff! I'm really enjoying this series and I can't wait for the next book!
July 4, 2016
This book as in the first book Craving brought out deep emotions in the characters. The writing is so good I felt the same emotions through Helen's writing.
Talon is changing thanks to Jade. The changes are brining back things from his past he doesn't want to remember but also new revelations. Jade is also investigating the Steele's past and between the two the pieces are coming together. It will take Talon opening up fully to Jade for the pieces of his past to fall into place.
Unfortunately the more the story unfolds the more dangerous the situation will be for all the Steel's and Jade. The bad guys have an agenda and are hidden in plain sight. (A wife's boyfriend, a city attorney and possibly a tattoo artist link?). The secrets in the Steele family are the key to the uncovering the reason to Talon's unfortunate past.
I can't wait for part 3 in the saga. Im hoping Jonah and the doc get some pen'd time in book three as well as a future relationship for Ryan and Marjorie. But more importantly I can't wait for Talon to get his justice.
Talon is changing thanks to Jade. The changes are brining back things from his past he doesn't want to remember but also new revelations. Jade is also investigating the Steele's past and between the two the pieces are coming together. It will take Talon opening up fully to Jade for the pieces of his past to fall into place.
Unfortunately the more the story unfolds the more dangerous the situation will be for all the Steel's and Jade. The bad guys have an agenda and are hidden in plain sight. (A wife's boyfriend, a city attorney and possibly a tattoo artist link?). The secrets in the Steele family are the key to the uncovering the reason to Talon's unfortunate past.
I can't wait for part 3 in the saga. Im hoping Jonah and the doc get some pen'd time in book three as well as a future relationship for Ryan and Marjorie. But more importantly I can't wait for Talon to get his justice.
February 2, 2025
I'm so surprised how much I don't like this one, lol. I blame being newbie reader 5 years ago when I read this one last, because this was SO NOT a 5 star read.
This author tries way to hard to make her sex scenes spicy or something. All I know is a lot of the dialogue that is written for these are just cringy.
I don't get the 'love' at all between these two characters. I get lust sure, but love, no. Jade is supposed to be a smart lawyer, but she lacks common sense and comes across as anything but smart.
Then you have Talon who is this 35 year old that is...I'm not even sure what to describe him as. I know he's had trauma, but he doesn't come across how I think the author was trying to in these pages.
I find myself rolling my eyes so much in this from the sheer absurdity. I will keep going because I really don't remember a lot of what happened, which honestly should've told me something when I started this. Because if it really was as good as I thought it was, I would've remembered it, lol.
Changing my review to 2 stars.
This author tries way to hard to make her sex scenes spicy or something. All I know is a lot of the dialogue that is written for these are just cringy.
I don't get the 'love' at all between these two characters. I get lust sure, but love, no. Jade is supposed to be a smart lawyer, but she lacks common sense and comes across as anything but smart.
Then you have Talon who is this 35 year old that is...I'm not even sure what to describe him as. I know he's had trauma, but he doesn't come across how I think the author was trying to in these pages.
I find myself rolling my eyes so much in this from the sheer absurdity. I will keep going because I really don't remember a lot of what happened, which honestly should've told me something when I started this. Because if it really was as good as I thought it was, I would've remembered it, lol.
Changing my review to 2 stars.
December 24, 2019
Jade and Talon continue their captivating and intriguing tale still cloaked in mystery. Jade didn't mean to fall in love with the egimna that is Talon Steel. She knows he is hurting from things buried deep, but he is determined to hid behind his wall. It's one step forward, two leaps back every time she makes some in road. Talon knows his darkness is enough to swallow anyone whole - he's living proof of that. Keeping it from tainting Jade is paramount regardless of how much she soothes the savage beast. Talon has tried to keep it buried and those he loves at arm's length, but that's just a bandaid over a bullet hole. If he wants to lay the demons to rest for good and have a shot with his blue eyed Angel, he is going to need to face those terrors headon.
July 27, 2017
These books keep getting better and better. What a way to leave your readers hanging and waiting for book 3 Helen Hardt.....how dare you? lol I can't wait to read book 3 and learn more of what I'm already figuring out and wanting to know. Poor Talon he is so afraid of everything but is finally making some lead way and Jade is just caught up in emotions, drama all the while trying to figure out her job as a woman in love with a mysterious man and working with a boss that she gets bad vibes from. On to book 3. You must read these books for yourself. I promise they are worth every minute.
August 29, 2018
Audible
Obsession- the perfect word for how I feel about Talon Steel (and his brothers).
Talon Steel is the epitome of dark and dangerous. He battles demons that no one should have to experience, yet he doesn’t let them own him. Jade is such a patient and kind woman. She’s strong, determined and smart. She keeps the reader and Talon on their toes.
As much as Obsession answers questions, it also poses more. Each time I thought I figured out what was happening, I turned around and questioned myself. The white hot connection that Jade and Talon had - made me blush.
Obsession- the perfect word for how I feel about Talon Steel (and his brothers).
Talon Steel is the epitome of dark and dangerous. He battles demons that no one should have to experience, yet he doesn’t let them own him. Jade is such a patient and kind woman. She’s strong, determined and smart. She keeps the reader and Talon on their toes.
As much as Obsession answers questions, it also poses more. Each time I thought I figured out what was happening, I turned around and questioned myself. The white hot connection that Jade and Talon had - made me blush.
February 16, 2017
This saga is just getting better. The suspense behind Talon's history is building!
Helen Hardt does such a great job of conveying the torment that Talon lives with on a daily basis and showing his emotional growth due to his time with Jade. Her understanding is exactly what he needs to allow him the space and time needed to come to terms with feelings and nightmares that have weighed him down for more than two decades.
I can't wait to see what happens next.
Helen Hardt does such a great job of conveying the torment that Talon lives with on a daily basis and showing his emotional growth due to his time with Jade. Her understanding is exactly what he needs to allow him the space and time needed to come to terms with feelings and nightmares that have weighed him down for more than two decades.
I can't wait to see what happens next.
July 27, 2019
Really enjoyed this one!
Although this story deals with some pretty confronting issues it is written well and is able to convey the hurt without crossing over into a graphical re-telling. If it went graphical it probably wouldn’t work anyway.
The chemistry between Jade and Talon is undeniable and Helen Hardt certainly knows how to write the ‘bedroom’ scenes. Golly! 😉
I’m looking forward to the next book!
Although this story deals with some pretty confronting issues it is written well and is able to convey the hurt without crossing over into a graphical re-telling. If it went graphical it probably wouldn’t work anyway.
The chemistry between Jade and Talon is undeniable and Helen Hardt certainly knows how to write the ‘bedroom’ scenes. Golly! 😉
I’m looking forward to the next book!
January 9, 2017
Cliffhanger
Author uses gratuitous sex to mask how she drags this story out into multiple, expensive books. By the time this story is told, it will be a $50 novel.
Author uses gratuitous sex to mask how she drags this story out into multiple, expensive books. By the time this story is told, it will be a $50 novel.
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