The Substitute

The Bro #1

by Xavier Neal

Nate

Being a substitute teacher is good for me.
It's sensible.
Logical.
Abandoning my plans for a career in the film industry and a life full of fun, albeit slightly reckless, actions was the responsible thing to do.
That's who I am now.
That's who I've become.
Mr. Boring. Mr. Predictable. Mr. Anal Retentive.
At least that's what I thought until one irresistible student breathes life back into the version of me I've been desperately trying to suffocate.
Being with Ainsley isn't a want. It's a need.
And I'm willing do anything to fulfill it.

Ainsley

I've spent my entire life ashamed of who I am.
Who my mother is. What she does.
Being forced to attend a private school where people endlessly whisper about it is only bearable because I know exactly what's in my future.
I know exactly where I'm going.
I know exactly what to do to get there.
Or at least I thought I did.
One class with him and suddenly my entire world was missing one very important piece.
Being with Nate isn't just about sex.
It's about loving life in a way I never imagined.
The situation isn't ideal, but I'll do whatever it takes to be with him.

Genres: Romance

331 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 1, 2017

About the author

I'm USA TODAY Bestselling Romance Author who has published over ninety works to date.

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LIST OF BOOKS!


Standalones


Cinderfella (YA Contemporary) - https://amzn.to/2pBHZff

The Gamble (Romantic Comedy) - https://amzn.to/2uf4ZFw

Part of The List (Contemporary Romance) - https://amzn.to/2udYwuz

Walking Away (Contemporary Ménage Romance) - https://amzn.to/2pAOEGf

Can’t Match This (Romantic Comedy) - https://amzn.to/2XapsVw

Hike, Hike Baby (Romantic Comedy) - https://amzn.to/32QqyJJ

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Sleigh Bride (Holiday Romantic Comedy)- https://amzn.to/3nOfJ4L

Aleatory (Contemporary Age-Gap Romance) - https://amzn.to/2Pqt07F

Picnic Perfect (Romantic Comedy) -
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Eden (Dark, Taboo Romance)-
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Baby Got Pack (Romantic Comedy) -
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Waiting (Contemporary Age- Gap Romance)
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SERIES

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Senses Series
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Duched Series
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The Bro Series
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Private Series
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The Bennett Duet
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The Love Duet
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The Compassion Series:
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The Free:
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(OPEN)
Dalvegan Dragons-
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The Hockey Gods Series- https://amzn.to/31KBuXo
Adrenaline Series - https://amzn.to/2MAo669
Prince of Tease Series- https://amzn.to/2Iu3ZkA
The Just Series - https://amzn.to/2MBGDPi
Must Love Series- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074HX1VK2
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Reviews

[Rosie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I can remember a hot substitute teacher filling in during high school, he incited numerous blushes and more than a few giggles among teachers and students alike. Reading this story reminded of that hot sub so I totally understood Ainsley's (she's 18) attraction for Nate, despite their 11 year age difference.

We're introduced to Nate and Ainsley during their initial hook up. In a subsequent flashback, we learn that she propositioned and he accepted. The next day, coming to his senses he breaks it off with her or he would have if she had been wearing panties. When he sees her later in the day he doesn't have the strength to resist the inevitability of another hook-up and gives in -- again!

As the weeks go by, they become closer as they slowly discover they have a lot in common (besides sex) through their love of film. Ainsley reignites a vitality that has long been missing because of Nate's past mistakes. Nate teaches Ainsley it's okay to need him/someone without sacrificing her independence.

The book was an enjoyable read up until the moment that Nate's friend is a voyeur during an intimate moment between Ainsley and Nate. It felt awkward and wrong and it changed the tone of the book for me.

Whether their love will last remains to be seen. Nate's three self-proclaimed brothers will each get a story of their own so I'm sure we'll catch glimpses of the progression of Ainsley and Nate's relationship in the upcoming books.

PLEASE NOTE:
I totally understand why some elements of this story will make some people uncomfortable. The author makes it clear that Ainsley is an 18 year old consenting adult. The Age of Consent in the United States ranges from 16 to 18 years old. The age at which there are no restrictions for consensual sexual activities is 18 with the understanding that sex with someone 16-18 is not illegal per se and can still be open to prosecution under certain circumstances.

When Nate tells his friend Holden what happened with Ainsley, his friend strongly encouraged him to quit his job and openly date her. Nate's passion was in film and he was purposely hiding behind the facade of being a teacher. He didn't listen to his friend's advice, and therefore actions have consequences.

FINAL NOTE:
I can't stress this enough for young women in high school and college STOP sending your boyfriends naked pictures of yourself and making sex videos. Some people have no integrity and nowadays these pictures and videos are being shared and traded on various websites.

[Karen's Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Nate and Ainsley meet it's not the most desirable of settings. I'll it admit that my first impression of these two as a couple was not the best. The teacher/student relationship with an 11 year difference was not exactly my ideal romance story, with Ainsley being 18 and Nate being 29. If you can get pass that. If you can get pass the age issue then I think you might enjoy their story. This is a well written story about to young people who were looking for something better and to be better and they found that with each other. The chemistry between Nate and Ainsley is undeniable and together they found away to heal from past wounds and find their happy. In spite of the age difference they seemed really good for each other and in the end I'm glad that I gave this book a chance. I look forward to the next book in this series because if The Substitute is any indication, none will be your run of the mill love story. I gave this one 4 stars.

[Cheryl O'Harney · Rating 4 out of 5]

*This book was reviewed for Summer's Eve Reads*

Title: The Substitute (The Bro Series)
Author: Xavier Neal
Genre: Teacher/Student Contemporary Romance
Rating: 4/5

The Substitute is a taboo teacher/student novel, it was a relatively quick read compared to others I've read from this genre but that doesn't take away the fact that it packs a punch.

I will admit going in I was a little dubious with regards to Ainsley the students age as she's only eighteen and the teacher Nate's twenty-nine but then I thought get over yourself Cheryl she's of legal age and I soon discovered that although she's only eighteen she's very mature, well beyond her years and to be honest I didn't even give the age gap another thought other than when it was mentioned within the storyline, also Nate was a substitute teacher so it didn't feel quite so bad, well at least to me it didn't.

The chemistry between Ainsley and Nate was scorching hot as was the sex these two souls both wounded in their own ways were made for each other, they both brought out the best in one another and despite all odds against them they get their HEA.

I can't wait to see what's in-store next for the Bro's especially the hot single dad!!! In the meantime I'll be checking out Xavier's other books.

[Andrea Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOT!!!HOT!!!!!HOT!!!!

Oh my goodness, I freaking love this book so much! The Substitute will have you feeling all good inside. I couldn't get enough of Nate and Ainsley, and the story starts off with a bang.

Nate is a Substitute Teacher who lives his life by the rules, he is trying very hard to stay on the right path. His life in at s stand still and he needs to learn to live again. Ainsley is a sweet and feisty little woman. She loves film and is trying to get into the best college she can. Her home life is rocky, and she is having to be an adult when really she should be s teen and not have to worry about certain things. I loved her side of the story so much. In society a teacher/student relationship is frowned upon. But with them it works so well. And she is at least of age!! So don't get your panties in a twist. But this story was a fun and sexy read. Xavier has let in inner kitten out, and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. Gahhhhhhhhhh I need more of them. But I'm so excited to read the rest of the Bro Series!

[christyheartsbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one starts off with a punch and doesn't stop from there. Nate is a substitute teacher at an elite private school teaching a film class (maybe history of film, I will admit that I may have missed that specific detail) after walking away from a promising career as a film editor. Ainsley is tired of being the joke of the school and is ready to go to college where she can forget all about the small town gossip she grew up with. But after they cross a very bold line they both can't move on ignore their attraction both physically and mentally.

IMO the author did a good job of maturing Ainsley so it wasn't a stretch to see an 18 year old with a 29 year old. But man did Ainsley have some ish to deal with - poor thing, my heart broke for her and her horrible piece of drift wood that was called a mother. But I love that Nate was her safe zone and respected her, fostered and supported her goals. Loved that he didn't want to hold her back. Then there was her trying to push him to go back to his roots and what he loves. I loved their support for each other. I also adored how accepting all of his friends were of Ainsley - that there was no judgment because she made him happy, I am sure that it helped that she was able to hold her own and fit in with them but mostly she made him happy. Gah - I adored this book and all of the steam and holy heck was there all the steam in this one. I felt like even though there tons of steamy scenes it was a perfect balance of story. If you are a fan of heavy steam and age gap then I don't know why you haven't read this one yet.

[Becky Rendon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hot for Teacher

Xavier Neal is out to snare you. She didn't ease you into this hotbed of naughtiness. No she shoves us in and locks the door behind. It's sexy and 100% hot. Squirming during reading is unavoidable and probably a compliment.

The Substitute is a steamy and delightfully filthy age gap romance. A teacher who leaves a mark and gives orgasms like that wohld be a dream come true for anyone!

Can we talk about the places and rate the scenes? Because this book plays out like a movie and I'm all for duscussing it like one!

Oh and the sweet swoon factor is absolutely there, I'm just fanning myself remembering the racier moments!

Good luck finding a Substitute for this Teach, I offer to screen the applicants!

[❤️MaLu_Reads❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

****3.5 Stars****

Since I loved the Senses series, I said I definitely have to try this one out. The book was good, hot as hell, as this author knows how to write, but something was missing. For me, at least. It was a little overall, overhead.

Ainsley


Ainsley is a young girl who is struggling to survive until she gets her ticket to college, full scholarship. She loves movies and all about them and she is studying in a well-known high school, one of the elites one were all the richest teenagers study. Her mother is an escort, and all the money she gains she’s spending them all in her, designers close, perfumes, spas and of course, drugs.

Nothing on her daughter and in the house.

Ainsley has a part-time job, and with what she gains, survives and pays the bills of the house. All the kids from her high school know what her mother does for a living, and so she doesn’t have many friends. Although Ainsley is eighteen years old, and Nate 30, she is the adult, the mature one in this relationship.

Nate


Nate… was and still is a mystery to me. I didn’t connect with him. Like I said were many moments when I thought he was eighteen, and Ainsley 30. I didn’t like how weak he was in front of Ainsley, weak in the sense he couldn’t resist her. Don’t get me wrong, I love that, what woman doesn’t love the way a man can’t resist her, I wanted more struggling for him, more resisting. But I loved how dominant he was when he put his arms on Ainsley.

It was possessive, rough, just the way I like it.


And I also loved his relationship with his ”bros”.

Definitely, can’t wait to read their story.

So…if you’re looking for a funny, hot and easy reading, this is the one for you.

This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession

[Julie Gustafson-Monk · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is hard to pull off a student/teacher romance. Xavier Neal has nailed this book. There are a few similarities to the norm in these types of books. There are a few things that separate Xavier from other authors that have written this type of book is the huge age gap and Anisyle is way more mature.
Nate and Anisyle are extremely hot together. Their chemistry is off the charts amazing.

She has had a rough upbringing and a messed up home life. He is want to be a teacher. For now he settles as a Sub. Anisyle's sub. Its not a surprise that they get caught. Does that stuff them from being together???


I fell in love with Neal's writing when I read Private. Every time she releases a book, I love her even more. Her writing has a way of sucking you in and not letting go. Even way after the book is finished being read. I loved this book!!! 💚💚💚

[evette w · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good

This was definitely something different and totally unexpected.I love that we got a mature young adult in this story who pretty much knows what she's doing.I love the passion that burns up the pages in this story.But what I didn't like was the scene between the two of them ,while the friend watch's,that to me was in poor taste.I'm sorry I thought it took a little from the story.Overall this was good solid writing and a start to a fresh series.

[Sheri Bishop · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say about Nate and Ainsley? I'm not going to say anything about them. I'm just going to strongly encourage you to immediately buy this book and read it. Your idea about student/teacher relationships will never be the same.

[Teresa Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Nate and Ansley
Love this beautiful amazing forbidden intense story♡Gimme Holden

[Cherryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

We see through a different lens!

Teacher Nate Green did not see Ainsley Jacobson as his student. She was much more than that to him. She was responsible for bringing him out of the funk he'd been living in since his incident years ago. She who brought the bros back together Kimberley used to be. "Teach" and "Kid" knew that what they were doing went against all of Ollandet Peeps rules. They were in love with each other and Made certain that they were always careful, until Ainsley's phone came up missing. Josh Buchanan was a piece of work. He just could not take "no" from Ainsley no matter how politely she tried to show him she was not interested. The little twerp did everything go ruin her relationship with her mysterious boyfriend and succeeded. Have was so full of jealously that he nearly ruined their relationship. Thank goodness for his bros who had proof of what really happened and talked him from the edge.

Xavier wrote a book that was really hard for me to read simply because Ainsley, being so young, should have not been exposed to the life she had. Even though she was of legal age, I see her missing her father to the point to where she is looking for real love, support and protection. She found that in Nate. They had so much in common with each other Ainsley is more mature beyond her 18 years and is probably just as mature as any 30 year old that Nate would find.

That dang mother of hers should have her mother's card revoked. I can't believe any mother worth her salt found drugs and escorting to be more important than her child. Running into her and an unexpected John was just has dropping. Poor Ainsley had to raise herself and take care of her mother and do the things her mother should have been doing for her. I was so glad to read that she finally got away from her mother to start over anew with Nate.

[Charlene Silvernail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ainsley and Nate

Another great book by Xavier Neal. This book was intriguing with touches of drama thrown in along the way.
Josh was a pain in the behind, continually trying to get Ainsley under his spell but she wasn’t having it. He stole her phone and their was a video of Nate...not what you’d want anyone else to see, that she accidentally downloaded and Josh used that to get Nate fired.
Then there was her mother, if you can call her that. Ainsley had to buy groceries with her money, wash, cook, clean. Which in and of itself isn’t bad, but the mother should have helped instead of expecting Ainsley to do it all. Then there’s the time Nate and Ainsley caught her with Nate’s father...she was an escort. Humm.
Nate’s mom knew about his habits but she turned her head as long as she got to live the way she wanted.
Happy ending. Nate sent Ainsley a dress for graduation but instead of going there she went to Nate’s and they made up. She graduated and Nate and his boys attended, her mom didn’t. She moved in with him and everything was right in their world.

[Lynda Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Naughty and Nice😊

Erotic city here I come...the Teach an the Kid makes Ollander a hot hot place...Ainsley and Nate are in a hot sexually inappropriate relationship...she's 18 and he's 29....he's the hot substitute teacher..built for sin and sex....if I had a hottie substitute teacher like Nate....I would still be in high school...It started out as hot sexy action and quickly changed to unconditional love...they were so discreet..until a dumb jock rich kid couldn't take no for an answer..Ainsley was such a mature young girl..she came across more mature at times than Nate..and especially her poor excuse of a mother...can't wait for the next installment...the Hacker....here's a hint I picked up....it may or may not involve a babysitter....

[Stephanie Jynelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fine line

Well, it isn't ideal but it isn't illegal either. It's funny how age is not a big deal when there is 3 to 5 years difference. Make it an 18 year old with someone over 5 years older and he's a pedophile.
I get it, rules are rules even when it's really no one's business.
Nate and Ainsley are connected in more ways than regrettable mistakes. They have passion for things so much bigger than the restriction of age and time.
Another outstanding love story that is on the taboo side of things. On to the next one.

[Nicole Marie Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to start off saying this book may not be for everyone. If you struggle with student teacher/ age gap this is not a book for you. That being said this book also starts off way different and is unique in that way as a student/ teacher book. It actually worried me at first because with how it began I felt a slight disconnect with the characters because of that fact. Yet, as she always does Xavier Neal makes me love them and want everything for them by the time I’m half way through. I’m also now really looking forward to the rest of the bros from this series.

[Alicia Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this!

OMG I just love Xavier. Her writing is flawless. I have read every one of her books and not one disappoints. I waited anxiously for this book to come and I literally read it in one sitting. The character development and banter between the two was excellent. I love how she ties aspects of all her books together. Bravo Ms. Neal this is why you will always be my favorite author.

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Substitute by Xavier Neal is a excellent read. I am a fan of taboo romances and I loved this one. It is so sexy and hot. Nate and Ainsley have amazing chemistry that's so hot it practically sets the book on fire. This book offers a complex romance between well developed characters. At it's heart this book is simply a beautiful and emotional romance between an older man and a younger woman. I am posting an honest review after reading an ARC copy of this book.

[Marion Brown · Rating 1 out of 5]

I didn't even finish reading this book before I fast forwarded to the end.

I'm sorry I bought this book because a teacher screwing a barely legal student is not my idea of a romance story. I don't care what happens after I stopped reading. I will pass on this author for thinking this subject matter is equal to any of the great romance books I've had the pleasure of reading.

[Tricia Mccoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story line

I really enjoyed Nate and Ainsleys story. Love knows no numbers and age is just that...a number. Insay it has a great story line because it truly does. I've ready many books and this is the first about a teacher and student love affair. It's amazing how love, at any age, can change you!

[Misty Santillan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here's looking at you, kid

A well written, age old taboo, teacher/student love story. The characters are well written and each have their own set of problems to overcome. Their mutual love for "Casablanca" is part of some of their most endearing couple moments. I'd definitely recommend

[Tami czenkus · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Being around you brings out that natural instinct to f* without warning, protect without fear, and live without worry. Truthfully? I’m a little reckless when it comes to you."
This quote jumped off the pages at me and I totally swooned!!
The 1st installment in this series took me off guard when I first started the story but I quickly fell in love with all of the characters!

[lakiesha brissett · Rating 5 out of 5]

so much more than I thought

This book is so much more than I thought it would be about. I mean I had a feeling what it could be but this shows mean don’t just a book by it’s description. I love the storyline and the bromance. The characters are lovable. Check it out you’ll love it.

[Glenda G. Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

True Romance.

This storyline brings me back to my love of the "real" romance writing that became my first love of the genre. It makes me think and feel what the heroine is going through and experience!! For me, there is nothing to dislike, except for more of their life, love and experiences, i.e., a series!!!!

[Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Nate and Ainsley!!

Whew, loved Nate so much! He was punishing himself for mistakes he made in his past, then Ainsley brings him back to living!! Loved this book! Can't wait for Holden, Pax and Wyatt's stories!!

[Sammie Shorter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet story

Even though Nate was older(11 yrs) than Ainsley, she was the more mature, responsible one in the relationship. I have no words to describe her mother...no love lost there. Enjoyable story yet lacking that extra something to keep me engaged.

[Karry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hot and Risqué

This books dynamic is definitely taboo, but was done in such an amazing way. The characters challenge and compliment each other. You will just have to experience it for yourself. You won't be sorry!

[TOwens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although I'm a huge fan of Ms. Neal's other books, I was a little leery about this one. But since it was her, I had to at least try it. NOT DISAPPOINTED AT ALL. Can't wait to read the others stories, especially Holden😉

[Michele F. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable

I was uncertain about the teacher-student romance this story was totally enjoyable and the characters were relatable. Enjoyed the Bros' friendship also. Can't wait to read Holden's story.

[Sidney Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the storyline once it got past the sex being only story being told. I love the sex parts of the story but not when that's all the story consist of. I really loved the story of them. I can't wait to read more from Xavier Neal...