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Bad Boys Gone Good #2
Never Been Good
Flynn Maguire isn’t really a bad guy. Sure, he worked for the mob, but he ran a legitimate business—on paper anyway—and it paid enough to keep his brother out of the lifestyle. Until they turned on him. Now he’s stuck in Witness Protection, tending bar in Nowheresville Oregon… and pissed the life he knew is gone. The only bright spot? Fantasizing about his quiet, secretive, beautiful coworker.
Sierra Williams is a woman on the run. All she wants now is to settle into small town life… and ignore the brooding, sexy bartender who can’t seem to take his eyes off her. Flynn’s bad-boy vibe pushes all her buttons, but Sierra fell for the wrong man once already. She can’t afford to let her guard down again. Except Flynn’s tough exterior is slowly melting away to reveal the sweet man beneath and their attraction is too strong to resist.
Sierra and Flynn are falling fast, but they’re both keeping so many secrets. The truth could ruin everything… unless a girl who’s a little bad is perfect for a guy who’s never really been good.
Sierra Williams is a woman on the run. All she wants now is to settle into small town life… and ignore the brooding, sexy bartender who can’t seem to take his eyes off her. Flynn’s bad-boy vibe pushes all her buttons, but Sierra fell for the wrong man once already. She can’t afford to let her guard down again. Except Flynn’s tough exterior is slowly melting away to reveal the sweet man beneath and their attraction is too strong to resist.
Sierra and Flynn are falling fast, but they’re both keeping so many secrets. The truth could ruin everything… unless a girl who’s a little bad is perfect for a guy who’s never really been good.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2018
About the author
Christi Barth
61 books783 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Christi Barth earned a Masters degree in vocal performance and embarked upon a career on the stage. A love of romance then drew her to wedding planning. Ultimately she succumbed to her lifelong love of books and now writes award-winning contemporary romance, including the Naked Men and Aisle Bound series.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
September 16, 2018
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Never Been Good follows ex-mob member Flynn Maguire as he tries to settle into the small town life as part of the Witsec program he's been placed into along with his two brothers. His life was completely changed when he entered the program and he was having a hard time getting used to his new one. Until Sierra, a waitress where he bartends, comes crashing into his focus and he starts to realize life away from Chicago Mob isn't so bad.
I thought Flynn and Sierra's story was a good one and it had a lot of sweet moments that I liked reading about. They were a pretty great match, both with so many secrets that added that extra zing of tension between them, and both helping each other to move on from the life they knew before.
I did have a few issues with Flynn's character because I felt like he contradicted himself a lot. His inner thoughts didn't always go with how he was acting, in my opinion anyway. He would have thoughts of how he wasn't a good guy or that he wasn't settled but then his actions were the opposite of that and he was actually a very sweet guy and seemed to be doing pretty well in the town after Sierra came into his life.
But other than that confusing bits of Flynn's character I did really enjoy this story and I'm super excited to get the next one. These books can be read as standalones and the author did a good job of writing a prologue that puts you right into the story of these brothers so you won't lost at all if you haven't read the previous one
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Never Been Good follows ex-mob member Flynn Maguire as he tries to settle into the small town life as part of the Witsec program he's been placed into along with his two brothers. His life was completely changed when he entered the program and he was having a hard time getting used to his new one. Until Sierra, a waitress where he bartends, comes crashing into his focus and he starts to realize life away from Chicago Mob isn't so bad.
I thought Flynn and Sierra's story was a good one and it had a lot of sweet moments that I liked reading about. They were a pretty great match, both with so many secrets that added that extra zing of tension between them, and both helping each other to move on from the life they knew before.
I did have a few issues with Flynn's character because I felt like he contradicted himself a lot. His inner thoughts didn't always go with how he was acting, in my opinion anyway. He would have thoughts of how he wasn't a good guy or that he wasn't settled but then his actions were the opposite of that and he was actually a very sweet guy and seemed to be doing pretty well in the town after Sierra came into his life.
But other than that confusing bits of Flynn's character I did really enjoy this story and I'm super excited to get the next one. These books can be read as standalones and the author did a good job of writing a prologue that puts you right into the story of these brothers so you won't lost at all if you haven't read the previous one
April 16, 2018
3 - "Honesty... No secrets or lies." Stars!
The second book in the Bad Boys Gone Good series; Never Been Good gives us Flynn Maguire’s story. This is definitely one you can read as a standalone, and the prologue brings you up to speed on the brother’s pasts in general pretty succinctly.
"People are often more than just what they look like…"
I suppose the Bad Boy aspect to Flynn’s characters stems from the fact he is an ex-mobster, now in WITSEC, while he and his brothers await to testify at the trial of the head mobster they worked for, that for me was where it ended to be honest though, he was too sweet, soft hearted and generally nice to be classed as a full on Bad Boy. Nothing wrong with that, I liked him, and the banter with his brothers bought on a few chuckles as well.
"Whatever puts a smile on your face…"
Without knowing it Flynn and Sierra’s situations were both pretty similar, and I liked that as soon as they are in each other’s company, he feels all protective-alpha about her, what starts out as a working relationship soon develops into more when they realize their attraction is mutual. But can love built on secrets and lies really last in the long term…
"What if I don’t forgive you..?"
"That won’t stop me from loving you."
This was a pretty easy, if not fairly predictable read, I definitely got on better with Never Been Good than I did with the only other title I have read by this author, which ended in a DNF and ranty review. But something was still not quite there for me, I can’t totally put my finger on what it is that doesn’t gel with me in regards to this authors work, but although for the most part easy to get along with I did find my attention wandering if I tried to read more than a couple of chapters at a time.
"You’re not alone… Not anymore… Not ever again."
You can’t win them all I suppose, and a reader is not going to get along with every author’s writing style, which I think may be the case on this occasion, because I cannot say there was anything particularly wrong with this book, it just didn’t set off any fires, or pull any emotional investment from me in relation to the story being told or the characters themselves. I’d still happily recommend it though, because if you are looking for something easy to sink your teeth into then the author has delivered that in spades.
ARC generously provided via InkSlingerPR in exchange for the above honest review.
The second book in the Bad Boys Gone Good series; Never Been Good gives us Flynn Maguire’s story. This is definitely one you can read as a standalone, and the prologue brings you up to speed on the brother’s pasts in general pretty succinctly.
"People are often more than just what they look like…"
I suppose the Bad Boy aspect to Flynn’s characters stems from the fact he is an ex-mobster, now in WITSEC, while he and his brothers await to testify at the trial of the head mobster they worked for, that for me was where it ended to be honest though, he was too sweet, soft hearted and generally nice to be classed as a full on Bad Boy. Nothing wrong with that, I liked him, and the banter with his brothers bought on a few chuckles as well.
"Whatever puts a smile on your face…"
Without knowing it Flynn and Sierra’s situations were both pretty similar, and I liked that as soon as they are in each other’s company, he feels all protective-alpha about her, what starts out as a working relationship soon develops into more when they realize their attraction is mutual. But can love built on secrets and lies really last in the long term…
"What if I don’t forgive you..?"
"That won’t stop me from loving you."
This was a pretty easy, if not fairly predictable read, I definitely got on better with Never Been Good than I did with the only other title I have read by this author, which ended in a DNF and ranty review. But something was still not quite there for me, I can’t totally put my finger on what it is that doesn’t gel with me in regards to this authors work, but although for the most part easy to get along with I did find my attention wandering if I tried to read more than a couple of chapters at a time.
"You’re not alone… Not anymore… Not ever again."
You can’t win them all I suppose, and a reader is not going to get along with every author’s writing style, which I think may be the case on this occasion, because I cannot say there was anything particularly wrong with this book, it just didn’t set off any fires, or pull any emotional investment from me in relation to the story being told or the characters themselves. I’d still happily recommend it though, because if you are looking for something easy to sink your teeth into then the author has delivered that in spades.
ARC generously provided via InkSlingerPR in exchange for the above honest review.
April 22, 2018
Christi Barth continues her Bad Boys Gone Good series with Never Been Good, the second installment about ex-mobster Flynn Maguire and artist on the run Sierra Williams. In order to hide from their pasts, both are keeping secrets. Can they trust each other with more than the truth? Can they trust each other with their hearts?
Sierra trusted the wrong man once, a mistake she’s not likely to make again, but ignoring the surly bartender with a hard exterior who insists on making sure she gets home safe is proving to be harder every day.
Flynn is angry at himself and the hand he’s been dealt. He and his brothers had to leave the big city life, assume new identities and try to fit in the tiniest city in the US all because he needs to testify against the mob. There is a silver lining and she’s his enigmatic coworker who he wants to get to know, even though he knows it’s unfair because he can’t tell her about his past.
Christi Barth provides the right mix of fun, sweet, and sexy that pulled me into this story right from the start from the interesting premise about ex-mob brothers who go into WITSEC, to the small town charm where they’re hiding in, to the characters you want to get to know.
Even though he’s angry, underneath all of Flynn’s tough exterior lays the heart of a reliable and kind man who cares for his community, and a loving brother whose life choices had been made for him, forcing him to work for the mob. I felt his misery, but was glad that not only could he resolve his relationship with his brothers, but also found a new purpose and love.
As for Sierra, her past is almost as bad as Flynn’s, but she’s brave and sweet and perfect for Flynn. Together the steamed up the pages with witty, fun and sexy back and forth.
Never Been Good is book #2 of the Bad Boys Gone Good series by Christi Barth. It is standalone contemporary romance told by both points of view with a happy ending.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via InkSlinger. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
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Sierra trusted the wrong man once, a mistake she’s not likely to make again, but ignoring the surly bartender with a hard exterior who insists on making sure she gets home safe is proving to be harder every day.
Flynn is angry at himself and the hand he’s been dealt. He and his brothers had to leave the big city life, assume new identities and try to fit in the tiniest city in the US all because he needs to testify against the mob. There is a silver lining and she’s his enigmatic coworker who he wants to get to know, even though he knows it’s unfair because he can’t tell her about his past.
Christi Barth provides the right mix of fun, sweet, and sexy that pulled me into this story right from the start from the interesting premise about ex-mob brothers who go into WITSEC, to the small town charm where they’re hiding in, to the characters you want to get to know.
Even though he’s angry, underneath all of Flynn’s tough exterior lays the heart of a reliable and kind man who cares for his community, and a loving brother whose life choices had been made for him, forcing him to work for the mob. I felt his misery, but was glad that not only could he resolve his relationship with his brothers, but also found a new purpose and love.
As for Sierra, her past is almost as bad as Flynn’s, but she’s brave and sweet and perfect for Flynn. Together the steamed up the pages with witty, fun and sexy back and forth.
Never Been Good is book #2 of the Bad Boys Gone Good series by Christi Barth. It is standalone contemporary romance told by both points of view with a happy ending.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via InkSlinger. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Twitter * Pinterest Book Teasers * More reviews
April 5, 2018
Review for www.kisslikeagirl.com
Truth time, I choose this book for its hot as heck cover. I’m not going to say anything else, just look at it and try not to drool.
Now for the story. Never Been Good takes us to a small coastal town in Oregon where we’re introduced to a bartender, Flynn, and waitress, Sierra. Both Flynn and Sierra have relationship-destroying secrets they need to keep. It’s hard to be in a relationship when you can’t be yourself. Ms. Barth gives us a great glimpse into the minds of two people who are running and hiding for a similar, yet very different reason.
This book is written from alternating third person limited perspectives of Flynn and Sierra. Which provides an awesome opportunity for us to see what’s going on in their heads and watch as they take a chance on love and trust each other.
Sierra was a beautifully developed character. For the first 85% of the book, she was cautious and composed and just generally relatable. Then she turns into a different person, one who is rash and hypocritical. Without spoiling the book, she made a decision I didn’t think she should have. The book ended pretty abruptly, and I didn’t have time to forgive her for that. This is one reasons this book got 4 stars, not 5.
So much of Flynn’s identity revolves around not being who he used to be. The bulk of the book is his angst at being in witness protection, at not being able to tell Sierra about his past, about not feeling worthy of her because he can’t tell her everything. It was the same thing over, and over again. I liked Flynn, a lot, I wish I got to see more where he was himself and not so angsty.
Somewhere in the middle of this book there was a question. I didn’t have an answer at the time. To be honest, I still don’t and let me tell you, I’ve thought about it more than I should. So I will share it in hopes of someone being able to give me a definite answer.
How many orgasms does it take before you cross the line from fling to dating?
Does anyone want to hear about the strange ads I got after Googling this? I’ve got a number for dates, dollars, hours, but not orgasms. It feels like important information to have. I’ve been out of the dating game from way too long. Is this how the youngons are determining their relationship status now?
The other reason I could only give the book 4 stars is because I didn’t feel satisfied with the ending. It felt like a shaky happy for now. Like I said, Sierra changed at the end and there was no epilogue. I believe they have a happily ever after where they’re safe and all their dreams came true. However, that’s more my optimism and imagination than anything the book gave me. I’m hopeful the next book in the series will give me some insight.
Overall, it was a good book. It was engaging, well written and something I would recommend for anyone seeking a book to curl up with for the weekend.
Truth time, I choose this book for its hot as heck cover. I’m not going to say anything else, just look at it and try not to drool.
Now for the story. Never Been Good takes us to a small coastal town in Oregon where we’re introduced to a bartender, Flynn, and waitress, Sierra. Both Flynn and Sierra have relationship-destroying secrets they need to keep. It’s hard to be in a relationship when you can’t be yourself. Ms. Barth gives us a great glimpse into the minds of two people who are running and hiding for a similar, yet very different reason.
This book is written from alternating third person limited perspectives of Flynn and Sierra. Which provides an awesome opportunity for us to see what’s going on in their heads and watch as they take a chance on love and trust each other.
Sierra was a beautifully developed character. For the first 85% of the book, she was cautious and composed and just generally relatable. Then she turns into a different person, one who is rash and hypocritical. Without spoiling the book, she made a decision I didn’t think she should have. The book ended pretty abruptly, and I didn’t have time to forgive her for that. This is one reasons this book got 4 stars, not 5.
So much of Flynn’s identity revolves around not being who he used to be. The bulk of the book is his angst at being in witness protection, at not being able to tell Sierra about his past, about not feeling worthy of her because he can’t tell her everything. It was the same thing over, and over again. I liked Flynn, a lot, I wish I got to see more where he was himself and not so angsty.
Somewhere in the middle of this book there was a question. I didn’t have an answer at the time. To be honest, I still don’t and let me tell you, I’ve thought about it more than I should. So I will share it in hopes of someone being able to give me a definite answer.
How many orgasms does it take before you cross the line from fling to dating?
Does anyone want to hear about the strange ads I got after Googling this? I’ve got a number for dates, dollars, hours, but not orgasms. It feels like important information to have. I’ve been out of the dating game from way too long. Is this how the youngons are determining their relationship status now?
The other reason I could only give the book 4 stars is because I didn’t feel satisfied with the ending. It felt like a shaky happy for now. Like I said, Sierra changed at the end and there was no epilogue. I believe they have a happily ever after where they’re safe and all their dreams came true. However, that’s more my optimism and imagination than anything the book gave me. I’m hopeful the next book in the series will give me some insight.
Overall, it was a good book. It was engaging, well written and something I would recommend for anyone seeking a book to curl up with for the weekend.
October 8, 2018
2.5
Not as good as the others.
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I like this author's style, the characters are pretty good most of the time and the plot isn't too bad. Bad part, though, is that I've read this one right after finishing the first book in the series (and that one was pretty good).
So yes, decent read, but the other one was better.
Not as good as the others.
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I like this author's style, the characters are pretty good most of the time and the plot isn't too bad. Bad part, though, is that I've read this one right after finishing the first book in the series (and that one was pretty good).
So yes, decent read, but the other one was better.
April 11, 2018
Full review can be found HERE --> https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
*ARC provided for a voluntary honest review.* ~Sonal
*ARC provided for a voluntary honest review.* ~Sonal
January 1, 2019
I love a ‘Bad Boy Gone Good’ romance which means Christi Barth’s series of the same name was bound to get my attention. Having enjoyed Bad for Her, which featured one of three brothers in a witness protection program, I made sure to keep an eye out to find out which would be the next of the Maguire brothers to find a worthy partner. In Never Been Good, Flynn Maguire gets to make up for his ‘bad boy’ ways by playing rescuer to a damsel in distress with as many secrets as his own. It’s a worthy addition to the series and a fun and sexy read.
Flynn’s life changed irrevocably when he and his brother Rafe decided to turn themselves in to the witness protection program in order to provide testimony against McGinty’s mafia operation after Rafe heard that their boss was planning to make Flynn a scapegoat and figured it was their only chance to get out in one piece. For Flynn, having worked the legitimate side of the mob’s construction business, it’s a bitter betrayal. Determined that their younger brother Kellan, innocent of all the wrongdoing going on around him, wouldn’t suffer an even worse fate, they took their chances with the feds.
As their fifth placement, Bandon, Oregon is the end of the road. They either make it here, or get kicked out of the WITSEC program. For Flynn, this means doing his job as a bartender at the Gorse Bar and staying under the radar. Flynn works side by side with Sierra Williams, a pretty, quiet waitress who is as closemouthed as he is. When she’s injured in a fall at the bar, Flynn’s the one to come to her rescue. With no car and only a bike to get around, and the smallest house he’s ever seen, Sierra – who is herself a new import to Bandon – is clearly not flush with cash and is barely making ends meet. Flynn is intrigued by her – and attracted to her, too.
Sierra has gotten herself into a fine mess. An art student almost finished with her advanced degree, she discovered that her ex-boyfriend’s requests for imitations of paintings by the Masters was in fact the tip of the iceberg of a sophisticated art forgery ring that led to a murder she witnessed. On the run for the last seven months, her dream of teaching art is a distant memory. Even the idea of making money off of her art skills makes her panicky. She’s lonely, and while she and Flynn have had the occasional co-worker chitchat, it’s not until she lets him into her home and they share some actual meaningful conversations that their friendship moves forward. Flirty text messages, a solid and deepening friendship, and a steamy affair ensue. But will their pasts catch up to them before they get a chance to decide whether to come clean with each other and risk a real relationship?
I love the strong, silent hero archetype and that definitely describes Flynn. He’s one of those guys who likes to do things for others without expecting favors in return. He uses his construction skills to build a bookcase for Sierra when he spies all the books she has littering the floor; he makes special cocktails with people’s favorite ingredients. Plus, he’s handsome and sexy and skilled in the bedroom.
Flynn and his brothers have been directed by their handler to find a way to become part of the local community, a difficult task when you aren’t allowed to be honest with the folks around you. He really misses the big city life of Chicago (pizza included). He’s got to make nice with the locals, contributing to their local cranberry festival by (God help him) volunteering to help with the parade floats, while still keeping an eye out for suspicious activity in case they’ve been tracked down by McGinty’s men. It’s a lot of stress for one man and there is definite friction between him and his brothers. Not used to sharing his feelings, Flynn finds that as he becomes more emotionally involved with Sierra he also has the urge to come clean with his brothers about the guilt he feels that they ended up in this situation. The three of them have a complicated relationship and the author touches on all of their issues with a deft and empathetic hand.
Sierra and Flynn have quite a fun and sexy relationship once they proceed beyond the co-worker stage. Lots of flirting, steamy scenes and Flynn’s desire to make Sierra feel happy and safe (as he suspects something is not quite right) make for a delightful romance. Flynn, of course, feels residual guilt for not being able to really be up front with Sierra, especially when she spills the beans to him first about her past. The second half of the story has some more intensity and action-packed scenes as both of them confront some of the very things they’d feared would catch up with them.
Like all good small town stories, this one has its share of quirky and unique characters. There’s Norah who runs a coffee shop with a pot business on the side. There’s Carlos, the owner of the bar where Flynn and Sierra work who takes them in and gives them jobs and a listening ear. There’s Mick, the crotchety old veteran who treats them like a gruff grandfather. It’s a place worthy of calling home and getting a happy ending. For Flynn and Sierra, it turns out that the last stop on their runaway road is the best one.
This review also appears at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for review.
Flynn’s life changed irrevocably when he and his brother Rafe decided to turn themselves in to the witness protection program in order to provide testimony against McGinty’s mafia operation after Rafe heard that their boss was planning to make Flynn a scapegoat and figured it was their only chance to get out in one piece. For Flynn, having worked the legitimate side of the mob’s construction business, it’s a bitter betrayal. Determined that their younger brother Kellan, innocent of all the wrongdoing going on around him, wouldn’t suffer an even worse fate, they took their chances with the feds.
As their fifth placement, Bandon, Oregon is the end of the road. They either make it here, or get kicked out of the WITSEC program. For Flynn, this means doing his job as a bartender at the Gorse Bar and staying under the radar. Flynn works side by side with Sierra Williams, a pretty, quiet waitress who is as closemouthed as he is. When she’s injured in a fall at the bar, Flynn’s the one to come to her rescue. With no car and only a bike to get around, and the smallest house he’s ever seen, Sierra – who is herself a new import to Bandon – is clearly not flush with cash and is barely making ends meet. Flynn is intrigued by her – and attracted to her, too.
Sierra has gotten herself into a fine mess. An art student almost finished with her advanced degree, she discovered that her ex-boyfriend’s requests for imitations of paintings by the Masters was in fact the tip of the iceberg of a sophisticated art forgery ring that led to a murder she witnessed. On the run for the last seven months, her dream of teaching art is a distant memory. Even the idea of making money off of her art skills makes her panicky. She’s lonely, and while she and Flynn have had the occasional co-worker chitchat, it’s not until she lets him into her home and they share some actual meaningful conversations that their friendship moves forward. Flirty text messages, a solid and deepening friendship, and a steamy affair ensue. But will their pasts catch up to them before they get a chance to decide whether to come clean with each other and risk a real relationship?
I love the strong, silent hero archetype and that definitely describes Flynn. He’s one of those guys who likes to do things for others without expecting favors in return. He uses his construction skills to build a bookcase for Sierra when he spies all the books she has littering the floor; he makes special cocktails with people’s favorite ingredients. Plus, he’s handsome and sexy and skilled in the bedroom.
Flynn and his brothers have been directed by their handler to find a way to become part of the local community, a difficult task when you aren’t allowed to be honest with the folks around you. He really misses the big city life of Chicago (pizza included). He’s got to make nice with the locals, contributing to their local cranberry festival by (God help him) volunteering to help with the parade floats, while still keeping an eye out for suspicious activity in case they’ve been tracked down by McGinty’s men. It’s a lot of stress for one man and there is definite friction between him and his brothers. Not used to sharing his feelings, Flynn finds that as he becomes more emotionally involved with Sierra he also has the urge to come clean with his brothers about the guilt he feels that they ended up in this situation. The three of them have a complicated relationship and the author touches on all of their issues with a deft and empathetic hand.
Sierra and Flynn have quite a fun and sexy relationship once they proceed beyond the co-worker stage. Lots of flirting, steamy scenes and Flynn’s desire to make Sierra feel happy and safe (as he suspects something is not quite right) make for a delightful romance. Flynn, of course, feels residual guilt for not being able to really be up front with Sierra, especially when she spills the beans to him first about her past. The second half of the story has some more intensity and action-packed scenes as both of them confront some of the very things they’d feared would catch up with them.
Like all good small town stories, this one has its share of quirky and unique characters. There’s Norah who runs a coffee shop with a pot business on the side. There’s Carlos, the owner of the bar where Flynn and Sierra work who takes them in and gives them jobs and a listening ear. There’s Mick, the crotchety old veteran who treats them like a gruff grandfather. It’s a place worthy of calling home and getting a happy ending. For Flynn and Sierra, it turns out that the last stop on their runaway road is the best one.
This review also appears at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for review.
July 19, 2018
Oh man, I couldn't put Never Been Good down once I picked it up! I absolutely loved Flynn and Sierra's romance. They both had so many secrets, but somehow that didn't matter once their hearts got involved!
I loved their vulnerability that was revealed when they were together. Loved how they connected on a deeper basis. Loved how they were just so perfect for each other--in and out of the bedroom. But I loved just how wholly and realistically they loved each other.
These Bad Boys have definitely grown on me and I can't wait for Kellan's story next! ~ Missy, 4 stars
I loved their vulnerability that was revealed when they were together. Loved how they connected on a deeper basis. Loved how they were just so perfect for each other--in and out of the bedroom. But I loved just how wholly and realistically they loved each other.
These Bad Boys have definitely grown on me and I can't wait for Kellan's story next! ~ Missy, 4 stars
April 4, 2018
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I've really been enjoying this series. Yes, this is only book #2 but already I'm into the people of this small town. I truly want to know what's going on in their lives.
When I first started this series I wasn't sure what I thought about a mob guy going good. To be honest the reason I read romance is to get away from all the crap going on in the world. But since it was a Avon release I gave it a try.
I was very glad that I had. Loved the first book and this second one was just as good. Loved it!
Flynn in the beginning of the series is a unhappy camper, you'll need to read it to truly understand why. It's better that way. It was almost hard at first to get to know the real him but thankfully in his book his own personality is coming out.
He's a big ole sweetie. This is a man that makes special drinks for those he likes. Naming them after the people he created them for. He also likes to look out for the people around him, another check in the plus column.
I also really enjoyed Sierra. She has a ton of crap in her past too. Which I think makes these two good for each other. They know how it is to work hard for themselves and know you don't always have a ton of people you can rely on, the ones you do, keep close.
The story moves very quick and keeps up with what's going on in the main theme of this story. It does a good job of pushing it forward.
As a whole I enjoyed the entire story but the prologue. I was kind of lost on it. I think it was because she was using they real names and I couldn't remember who was who. Other then that the story was funny, charming and romantic with a touch danger thrown in. I'd read this series in order to make and sense. Since this is only book #2 you should have a issue getting caught up. Just a heads up that book #3 is Got it Bad and it comes out September 18th!
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ARC received for a honest review
I've really been enjoying this series. Yes, this is only book #2 but already I'm into the people of this small town. I truly want to know what's going on in their lives.
When I first started this series I wasn't sure what I thought about a mob guy going good. To be honest the reason I read romance is to get away from all the crap going on in the world. But since it was a Avon release I gave it a try.
I was very glad that I had. Loved the first book and this second one was just as good. Loved it!
Flynn in the beginning of the series is a unhappy camper, you'll need to read it to truly understand why. It's better that way. It was almost hard at first to get to know the real him but thankfully in his book his own personality is coming out.
He's a big ole sweetie. This is a man that makes special drinks for those he likes. Naming them after the people he created them for. He also likes to look out for the people around him, another check in the plus column.
I also really enjoyed Sierra. She has a ton of crap in her past too. Which I think makes these two good for each other. They know how it is to work hard for themselves and know you don't always have a ton of people you can rely on, the ones you do, keep close.
The story moves very quick and keeps up with what's going on in the main theme of this story. It does a good job of pushing it forward.
As a whole I enjoyed the entire story but the prologue. I was kind of lost on it. I think it was because she was using they real names and I couldn't remember who was who. Other then that the story was funny, charming and romantic with a touch danger thrown in. I'd read this series in order to make and sense. Since this is only book #2 you should have a issue getting caught up. Just a heads up that book #3 is Got it Bad and it comes out September 18th!
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ARC received for a honest review
April 3, 2018
I have to say that this series is one of the few where I can remember some parts of the story from the previous book(s). The important stuff at least and it's been almost 6 months since I read Bad for her. I think that's a sign that the author has written a good series. I liked Never been good more than I liked Bad for her, soI can safely say that for me the series has improved and I am hoping for an even better third book. In this book there mentions of Kellan's past and I really want to see him get some parts of his old life back. The book had some emotional scenes and I was moved. The characters were likable and they had good chemistry. The story flew easily and I kept reading wanting to find out more about these characters. It was an enjoyable read and I would recommend it.
Read
January 22, 2019I do love a series or trilogy centered around family. When I saw this one also involved the Mafia, I had doubts but ended up trying the first book and enjoying it more than I anticipated. I was looking to forward to this one, the second book, and it didn't disappoint. "Never Been Good" was full of laughter, romance, witty banter, some drama, and secrets. I laughed, I fussed, I squawked at Flynn, and I hoped that Flynn and Sierra could work things out.
Flynn, the middle brother, was peripherally involved with the Mafia. His oldest brother, Rafe, was more heavily involved and the youngest brother, Kellan, wasn't involved at all. Flynn has been pouting since the brothers joined Witness Protection. Finding out he was expendable to his boss as well as finding out some family and Mafia secrets wrecked his confidence and his concept of himself. He resents the changes to their lives and gives his brothers a hard time.
Flynn Maguire hated a lot of things...Starting with his brother, Rafe, who had the dumber than dirt idea to throw them all into Witness Protection. He also hated his new life.
While Flynn hates his new life and the small town he now lives in, he tolerates his job as a bartender, and he is madly attracted to the pretty waitress at the bar where he works. When she injures her foot, he finds himself taking care of her, by his choice, and enjoying it.
That was the kicker. After spending years doing what people told him he had to, Flynn now did only the bare minimum. Sure, he could just hand her the brush. But this helping Sierra, was a compulsion, he couldn't resist.
Sierra has secrets of her own and is hesitant at first to let Flynn in, to get close. But as Flynn cares for her and they work on some community projects together, they become close. Becoming lovers is relatively easy compared to the secrets in their pasts. Oh, but I can't forget Sierra's house. The house is...teeny tiny. It's itty bitty. It had me in stitches and literally breathless while reading the love scenes, or should I say, attempted love scenes?
"Here? I thought I'd head up to bed, actually." After tossing him a teasing smile, she moved up two more steps.
A hamster could've caught up with her in a house this small. Flynn didn't even bother to lunge. He just leaned out a little and grabbed for her shorts as he made it onto the first step. Except that motion connected his shoulder with a shelf, and his head with the one above it. A picture fame tumbled off and onto the couch. A plant clocked him right above the eyebrow.
Flynn threw out the opposite arm to catch himself...just in time to remember the stupidly steep staircase didn't have a bannister.
"For being so tiny, this house is one giant cock block," he grumbled..."No. No way. This isn't going to work."
"You mean because of what I told you tonight?"
"I mean because your house wouldn't even fit a hobbit."...They'd make this work here, tonight, if he had to stand on leg in the shower to make it happen...This entire house was one giant chastity belt.
Barth kept me wondering how Sierra and Flynn would deal with each other's secrets and how they could have a long-term relationship. I enjoyed seeing their romance blossom, seeing Flynn change and grow, and seeing the relationship between the brothers continue to evolve and become stronger. I can hardly wait for Kellan's story. That relationship will be a real challenge!
Flynn, the middle brother, was peripherally involved with the Mafia. His oldest brother, Rafe, was more heavily involved and the youngest brother, Kellan, wasn't involved at all. Flynn has been pouting since the brothers joined Witness Protection. Finding out he was expendable to his boss as well as finding out some family and Mafia secrets wrecked his confidence and his concept of himself. He resents the changes to their lives and gives his brothers a hard time.
Flynn Maguire hated a lot of things...Starting with his brother, Rafe, who had the dumber than dirt idea to throw them all into Witness Protection. He also hated his new life.
While Flynn hates his new life and the small town he now lives in, he tolerates his job as a bartender, and he is madly attracted to the pretty waitress at the bar where he works. When she injures her foot, he finds himself taking care of her, by his choice, and enjoying it.
That was the kicker. After spending years doing what people told him he had to, Flynn now did only the bare minimum. Sure, he could just hand her the brush. But this helping Sierra, was a compulsion, he couldn't resist.
Sierra has secrets of her own and is hesitant at first to let Flynn in, to get close. But as Flynn cares for her and they work on some community projects together, they become close. Becoming lovers is relatively easy compared to the secrets in their pasts. Oh, but I can't forget Sierra's house. The house is...teeny tiny. It's itty bitty. It had me in stitches and literally breathless while reading the love scenes, or should I say, attempted love scenes?
"Here? I thought I'd head up to bed, actually." After tossing him a teasing smile, she moved up two more steps.
A hamster could've caught up with her in a house this small. Flynn didn't even bother to lunge. He just leaned out a little and grabbed for her shorts as he made it onto the first step. Except that motion connected his shoulder with a shelf, and his head with the one above it. A picture fame tumbled off and onto the couch. A plant clocked him right above the eyebrow.
Flynn threw out the opposite arm to catch himself...just in time to remember the stupidly steep staircase didn't have a bannister.
"For being so tiny, this house is one giant cock block," he grumbled..."No. No way. This isn't going to work."
"You mean because of what I told you tonight?"
"I mean because your house wouldn't even fit a hobbit."...They'd make this work here, tonight, if he had to stand on leg in the shower to make it happen...This entire house was one giant chastity belt.
Barth kept me wondering how Sierra and Flynn would deal with each other's secrets and how they could have a long-term relationship. I enjoyed seeing their romance blossom, seeing Flynn change and grow, and seeing the relationship between the brothers continue to evolve and become stronger. I can hardly wait for Kellan's story. That relationship will be a real challenge!
April 3, 2018
Originally posted on NallaReads.com
Who doesn't love a bad boy gone good...or not so good? Part-time good? Who cares, Flynn Maguire is hot hot hot! Our second Maguire brother in WIT SEC, this good-on-paper but bad in name bad boy is here for redemption! Stuck in a seemingly boring town, this business owner turned barroom drink-slinger has his eyes on the quiet and pretty waitress that breezes past him day after day. A relationship is risky when you can't reveal your secrets, but Flynn will soon learn that not every shy girl is a boring one....
Sierra has been used to living on the run the past few months. A horrid backstory is something she's not proud of. What she IS proud of is her ability to fly solo and under the radar in this small town in Oregon. As Sierra has to face her past she also has to deal with the surly sexy bartender that won't take his eyes off her. When he swoops ion to her rescue and puts himself in to her daily life, she's got no choice but to trust him with the truth or run. But how can a bad boy love a good girl gone bad?
Sierra and Flynn's story was so cute! I loved her whole backstory and how it was (in a way) similar to Flynn's and his brothers' history. This is a true story how love can find away to bring out the light in even the darkest of people. Flynn is convinced he is not worthy of anyone's time and effort but can't help himself when it comes to sweet Sierra. There's the undeniable urge to protect and care for her and right when she needs it. Where book one was filled with drama and danger, book 2 is filled with more mystery and intrigue into the truth behind our little heroine. But our final Maguire brother, Kellan, is going to be one HELL of a story and I can't wait!
Who doesn't love a bad boy gone good...or not so good? Part-time good? Who cares, Flynn Maguire is hot hot hot! Our second Maguire brother in WIT SEC, this good-on-paper but bad in name bad boy is here for redemption! Stuck in a seemingly boring town, this business owner turned barroom drink-slinger has his eyes on the quiet and pretty waitress that breezes past him day after day. A relationship is risky when you can't reveal your secrets, but Flynn will soon learn that not every shy girl is a boring one....
Sierra has been used to living on the run the past few months. A horrid backstory is something she's not proud of. What she IS proud of is her ability to fly solo and under the radar in this small town in Oregon. As Sierra has to face her past she also has to deal with the surly sexy bartender that won't take his eyes off her. When he swoops ion to her rescue and puts himself in to her daily life, she's got no choice but to trust him with the truth or run. But how can a bad boy love a good girl gone bad?
Sierra and Flynn's story was so cute! I loved her whole backstory and how it was (in a way) similar to Flynn's and his brothers' history. This is a true story how love can find away to bring out the light in even the darkest of people. Flynn is convinced he is not worthy of anyone's time and effort but can't help himself when it comes to sweet Sierra. There's the undeniable urge to protect and care for her and right when she needs it. Where book one was filled with drama and danger, book 2 is filled with more mystery and intrigue into the truth behind our little heroine. But our final Maguire brother, Kellan, is going to be one HELL of a story and I can't wait!
April 4, 2018
I am in love with Flynn! I loved how he gave up sulking to enjoy getting to know Sierra. Sierra was wise beyond her years and was amazingly brave to brazen it out on her own. I was fun to read about their somewhat similar pasts and how they were able to see the good in their new lives. You have to love a hero who courts the girl with woodworking! I cannot wait to read Kellan's story!
September 11, 2018
3.5 stars
I absolutely adored Flynn! He was broody and quiet at first and then as he and Sierra got closer he became a total dream! Sweet and caring and just plain yummy.
I liked Sierra, but her knee jerk reaction to Flynn's truth made me upset. She didn't give him the trust and respect that he gave her when she shared her history. Thankfully she didn't stay mad for long :)
I absolutely adored Flynn! He was broody and quiet at first and then as he and Sierra got closer he became a total dream! Sweet and caring and just plain yummy.
I liked Sierra, but her knee jerk reaction to Flynn's truth made me upset. She didn't give him the trust and respect that he gave her when she shared her history. Thankfully she didn't stay mad for long :)
March 29, 2018
A bad boy has never been as good as Flynn Maguire. Loyal, caring, and sexy as all get-out, he swept me off my feet right alongside Sierra. With a hint of suspense and a healthy dose of banter, NEVER BEEN GOOD and the Maguire brothers have stolen my heart.
April 13, 2018
4.5 stars
“Bad boys aren’t always as bad as they seem on the outside. In fact, they can be pretty darned wonderful on the inside.”
Christi Barth should be on everyone's reading list. I don’t know how she manages to continue to write stories that immediately draw readers in, but she does.
Never Been Good finds Flynn Maguire aka Frank Mullaney still licking his wounds after being dragged halfway across the country as part of the WITSEC program. It’s been seven months since he and his brothers had to leave everything behind. Seven months of Flynn realizing that everything he believed to be true was a lie. Seven months of Flynn being miserable and angry. Seven months of realizing that he and his brothers lives have been turned upside down because of him. No, Flynn didn’t make the choice to turn on the Chicago mob and go on the run. His older brother Rafe did. But what else is new? It seems that since his parents died, his life hasn’t been his own. Other people have made decisions for him. There is however, this little bright spot in the too small town of Bandon, Oregon that he finds himself in and that is the waitress he works with at the Gorse.
Sierra Williams isn’t all she seems to be. After losing her parents at a young age, she grew up in various foster homes. Her hard work and perseverance was rewarded with a full scholarship to art school and grad school. However, she still had bills to pay. She ended up meeting and falling head over heels for a guy who only wanted to use her. Now, Sierra finds herself halfway across the country on the run from her ex, who is a thief and an attempted murderer, and possibly the police. Sierra loves being in Bandon, and is tired of keeping her distance from people. When an unforeseen accident forces her to spend time with Flynn, Sierra starts to think that maybe she can give her heart to someone else.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think Flynn would be such a nice, good, decent man. Yes, he worked for the mob, but only for the legal business. He never truly did anything illegal, well except for the night before he disappeared. All the times in the past seven months where he’s been “Mr. Grumpy” and a total jerk to everyone was just his way of dealing with what he viewed as ruining his brothers’ lives. He never felt he deserved their loyalty. “You use to be the heart. You were always the glue for us. You’re the one who makes us work. As brothers. You’re all we need.”
Once Flynn and Sierra started spending time together, they realized how much they have in common. They ground each other, not just physically, but emotionally. They’re fun together. Flynn has this need to protect Sierra and make her life better.
The mafia storyline continues to be played out in this book, but I do believe that Never Been Good can be a standalone read. You have the added storyline of Sierra’s past, which I can only assume will also come into play in the third and final book, Got it Bad. I’m looking forward to the conclusion of this series. Not because I want it to end. But because I really want to see how the Maguire men and the women who love them handle the reckoning of Chicago Mafia Crime Boss, Danny McGinty. I’m also looking forward to seeing how the secondary characters in the series step up. I have a feeling that all the friendships the Maguire brothers have formed will come into play with their future.
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed.**
“Bad boys aren’t always as bad as they seem on the outside. In fact, they can be pretty darned wonderful on the inside.”
Christi Barth should be on everyone's reading list. I don’t know how she manages to continue to write stories that immediately draw readers in, but she does.
Never Been Good finds Flynn Maguire aka Frank Mullaney still licking his wounds after being dragged halfway across the country as part of the WITSEC program. It’s been seven months since he and his brothers had to leave everything behind. Seven months of Flynn realizing that everything he believed to be true was a lie. Seven months of Flynn being miserable and angry. Seven months of realizing that he and his brothers lives have been turned upside down because of him. No, Flynn didn’t make the choice to turn on the Chicago mob and go on the run. His older brother Rafe did. But what else is new? It seems that since his parents died, his life hasn’t been his own. Other people have made decisions for him. There is however, this little bright spot in the too small town of Bandon, Oregon that he finds himself in and that is the waitress he works with at the Gorse.
Sierra Williams isn’t all she seems to be. After losing her parents at a young age, she grew up in various foster homes. Her hard work and perseverance was rewarded with a full scholarship to art school and grad school. However, she still had bills to pay. She ended up meeting and falling head over heels for a guy who only wanted to use her. Now, Sierra finds herself halfway across the country on the run from her ex, who is a thief and an attempted murderer, and possibly the police. Sierra loves being in Bandon, and is tired of keeping her distance from people. When an unforeseen accident forces her to spend time with Flynn, Sierra starts to think that maybe she can give her heart to someone else.
Never in my wildest dreams did I think Flynn would be such a nice, good, decent man. Yes, he worked for the mob, but only for the legal business. He never truly did anything illegal, well except for the night before he disappeared. All the times in the past seven months where he’s been “Mr. Grumpy” and a total jerk to everyone was just his way of dealing with what he viewed as ruining his brothers’ lives. He never felt he deserved their loyalty. “You use to be the heart. You were always the glue for us. You’re the one who makes us work. As brothers. You’re all we need.”
Once Flynn and Sierra started spending time together, they realized how much they have in common. They ground each other, not just physically, but emotionally. They’re fun together. Flynn has this need to protect Sierra and make her life better.
The mafia storyline continues to be played out in this book, but I do believe that Never Been Good can be a standalone read. You have the added storyline of Sierra’s past, which I can only assume will also come into play in the third and final book, Got it Bad. I’m looking forward to the conclusion of this series. Not because I want it to end. But because I really want to see how the Maguire men and the women who love them handle the reckoning of Chicago Mafia Crime Boss, Danny McGinty. I’m also looking forward to seeing how the secondary characters in the series step up. I have a feeling that all the friendships the Maguire brothers have formed will come into play with their future.
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed.**
April 8, 2018
Reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books, on 4/8/18/.
Somehow I missed the first book in this series (no worries, I'm on the library's waiting list now) but that didn't stop me from enjoying book two...it just stopped me from knowing the details behind Rafe and Mollie's getting together. All that we need to know about the "bad boys" going into WITSEC we are told (again, I'm guessing, for those who have read Bad for Her --but it's brief, just the details we need to continue) here, so no worries.
I really enjoyed Flynn and Sierra's story--they're both characters it's easy to sympathize with and root for. Both are keeping pretty major secrets, and neither of them are 100% at fault for the reasons behind those secrets, which makes them even more sympathetic. Both are also struggling to find their places in the new world they've immersed themselves into, and watching them figure out "what to do when they grow up" is almost as fun as watching them grow into a relationship. Flynn is all kinds of grumpy and growly at the book's start and watching him go from that to the much lighter and happier person that Sierra helps him to be is wonderful (not to mention doubly appreciated by his brothers...)
The set-up for Kellan's book ( Got It Bad ) is absolutely delicious, and I cannot wait to see where he's been disappearing to all the time. Not to mention we're sure to get plenty of glimpses of Flynn and Sierra and Rafe and Mollie, given how close all three brothers are. How soon is September? ;)
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Somehow I missed the first book in this series (no worries, I'm on the library's waiting list now) but that didn't stop me from enjoying book two...it just stopped me from knowing the details behind Rafe and Mollie's getting together. All that we need to know about the "bad boys" going into WITSEC we are told (again, I'm guessing, for those who have read Bad for Her --but it's brief, just the details we need to continue) here, so no worries.
I really enjoyed Flynn and Sierra's story--they're both characters it's easy to sympathize with and root for. Both are keeping pretty major secrets, and neither of them are 100% at fault for the reasons behind those secrets, which makes them even more sympathetic. Both are also struggling to find their places in the new world they've immersed themselves into, and watching them figure out "what to do when they grow up" is almost as fun as watching them grow into a relationship. Flynn is all kinds of grumpy and growly at the book's start and watching him go from that to the much lighter and happier person that Sierra helps him to be is wonderful (not to mention doubly appreciated by his brothers...)
The set-up for Kellan's book ( Got It Bad ) is absolutely delicious, and I cannot wait to see where he's been disappearing to all the time. Not to mention we're sure to get plenty of glimpses of Flynn and Sierra and Rafe and Mollie, given how close all three brothers are. How soon is September? ;)
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
April 10, 2018
Which girl doesn’t like a nice bad boy story?! This is one was fantastic. Flynn Maguire not only has the bad boy vibe, but he is also carrying and loyal, and add sexiness to this character. Perfect combo I tell you. Flynn is a former mob, going good and trying to escape his old life. He lives in a small city where he’s got a job as a bartender. He likes his job, he makes special drinks for those he likes and naming them after those who inspire him. But, Flynn loves his job for another reason as well, Sierra.
Sierra has had a difficult past as well, and she is really trying to fix her life and avoiding the hot bartender. She has been running for months, until she managed to find a place in the small town in Oregon and a nice job that will keep her under the radar. After a while, Sierra realizes that maybe she can trust Flynn, maybe they are good for each other.
This was as intriguing story. I loved it, and I loved Flynn and Sierra characters. Can’t wait to read more. I recommend this book!
Sierra has had a difficult past as well, and she is really trying to fix her life and avoiding the hot bartender. She has been running for months, until she managed to find a place in the small town in Oregon and a nice job that will keep her under the radar. After a while, Sierra realizes that maybe she can trust Flynn, maybe they are good for each other.
This was as intriguing story. I loved it, and I loved Flynn and Sierra characters. Can’t wait to read more. I recommend this book!
April 21, 2018
Flynn McGuire is hating his life in Witsec with his brothers over their involvement in the mob. He misses everything about his former life. Sierra is the sweet waitress that he can't stop looking at and wanting since the minute he met her. Learning to open up and trust each other is only half the battle. Great plot twists with an original storyline in a town I wish was real.
Barth writes her characters with flaws that make them more realistic to the reader. I can't wait for the final McGuire brother to find love.
Barth writes her characters with flaws that make them more realistic to the reader. I can't wait for the final McGuire brother to find love.
March 14, 2018
Flynn sometimes forgets himself, "how selfish was he, kissing her without letting the woman eat dinner after a long shift? Flynn practically dumped the plate back on her lap. “Sorry. Eat up. I’ll get you some water.” I liked this book, I fell in love with Flynn.
March 11, 2018
LOVED it! This series is on fire and I can't wait for that final story.
April 8, 2018
“People are often more than just what they look like.”
Never Been Good is the second book in the Bad Boys Gone Good Series. Never Been Good follows the story of Flynn and Sierra and can totally be read as a stand-alone novel.
Flynn is still reeling from having his world turned upside down. He’s kinda sorta a bad guy, but mostly a good guy. Sure his past wasn’t on the up and up, what with his connections to the mob and all. But, he ran his own business and did what he could to keep his family out of it…..that is until it all went wrong. Flynn now finds himself stuck in a life he never wanted or planned for. The only highlight to his life now is Sierra. Sierra is mysterious in her own way. Quiet, secretive and keeps to herself. She too is on the run and wants nothing more than to forget her past. The last thing she needs is the sexy, brooding bartender, Flynn. Flynn pushes all her buttons and reminds Sierra of how good it is to live. Sierra can’t afford to let her guard down, but Flynn doesn’t make it easy for her. Soon, Sierra will see that behind this bad boy exterior is a man with a heart of gold. The chemistry between Flynn and Sierra is intense and impossible to ignore. Will these two give in to the passion that is between them? Or will their secrets and pasts catch up to them and ruin everything?? There’s only one way to find out….
Never Been Good is my first book by this author and it definitely won’t be my last. Never Been Good is the perfect book to curl up with and just spend the day getting lost in. It’s the perfect mix of sexy and sweet with a bit of suspense too. The characters are intriguing and have excellent chemistry. They pull you into the story immediately and make you want to learn more about them. I loved getting to know Flynn and Sierra. They were so similar and I think that is part of what made them work so well together. They had secrets and had told so many lies to protect their pasts. They were both hesitant to get involved with someone, but recognized that their connection was too strong to ignore. I really enjoyed seeing their story come together and found myself rooting for these two to find their happily ever after.
Overall, I thought this book was an enjoyable read. From secrets and lies to sexy and sweet with a little drama in between, this book has a little something for everyone. As I previously stated, this is my first book by this author and I’m looking forward to checking out more from her in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Never Been Good is the second book in the Bad Boys Gone Good Series. Never Been Good follows the story of Flynn and Sierra and can totally be read as a stand-alone novel.
Flynn is still reeling from having his world turned upside down. He’s kinda sorta a bad guy, but mostly a good guy. Sure his past wasn’t on the up and up, what with his connections to the mob and all. But, he ran his own business and did what he could to keep his family out of it…..that is until it all went wrong. Flynn now finds himself stuck in a life he never wanted or planned for. The only highlight to his life now is Sierra. Sierra is mysterious in her own way. Quiet, secretive and keeps to herself. She too is on the run and wants nothing more than to forget her past. The last thing she needs is the sexy, brooding bartender, Flynn. Flynn pushes all her buttons and reminds Sierra of how good it is to live. Sierra can’t afford to let her guard down, but Flynn doesn’t make it easy for her. Soon, Sierra will see that behind this bad boy exterior is a man with a heart of gold. The chemistry between Flynn and Sierra is intense and impossible to ignore. Will these two give in to the passion that is between them? Or will their secrets and pasts catch up to them and ruin everything?? There’s only one way to find out….
Never Been Good is my first book by this author and it definitely won’t be my last. Never Been Good is the perfect book to curl up with and just spend the day getting lost in. It’s the perfect mix of sexy and sweet with a bit of suspense too. The characters are intriguing and have excellent chemistry. They pull you into the story immediately and make you want to learn more about them. I loved getting to know Flynn and Sierra. They were so similar and I think that is part of what made them work so well together. They had secrets and had told so many lies to protect their pasts. They were both hesitant to get involved with someone, but recognized that their connection was too strong to ignore. I really enjoyed seeing their story come together and found myself rooting for these two to find their happily ever after.
Overall, I thought this book was an enjoyable read. From secrets and lies to sexy and sweet with a little drama in between, this book has a little something for everyone. As I previously stated, this is my first book by this author and I’m looking forward to checking out more from her in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
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April 3, 2018The perfect blend of sexy and sweet! I'm a sucker for a bad boy with a heart of gold, and Flynn is the kind of hero I could read about all day long. Read for the banter and the sexy Irish brothers, and stay for the swoon-worthy happily ever after.
April 3, 2018
My Review:
Wow, talk about two messed up characters. Both the hero and the heroine in this book were hiding huge secrets. That's not exactly ideal when establishing a new relationship...something they are both very aware of, but they hit a point where they just can't help themselves.
I am really enjoying the premise of this series...three brothers in WITSEC because the oldest two did what they had to do to keep their family safe and joined the mob. It's the tie between the three brothers that creates the magic in this series. I love the three of them. They fight and get on one another's nerves, but they are totally there to back one another up at every single turn.
There were tiny details about Sierra that made me love her. I adored her tiny house and Flynn's reaction to it had me laughing out loud, every single time. And omg...the best hero in the world is the one that woos a girl with a bookcase...seriously...so much swoon over that. I love how her house is tiny, but it's covered with books.
I also really enjoyed watching Flynn's attitude change throughout the story. He has so much guilt over what his brothers have given up to keep him out of jail...LOVE him.
Overall, it was just a great read. It took me a bit longer to read it than normal (which can be attributed to a story that isn't quite as tight as it could be), but I still really liked and enjoyed reading it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Wow, talk about two messed up characters. Both the hero and the heroine in this book were hiding huge secrets. That's not exactly ideal when establishing a new relationship...something they are both very aware of, but they hit a point where they just can't help themselves.
I am really enjoying the premise of this series...three brothers in WITSEC because the oldest two did what they had to do to keep their family safe and joined the mob. It's the tie between the three brothers that creates the magic in this series. I love the three of them. They fight and get on one another's nerves, but they are totally there to back one another up at every single turn.
There were tiny details about Sierra that made me love her. I adored her tiny house and Flynn's reaction to it had me laughing out loud, every single time. And omg...the best hero in the world is the one that woos a girl with a bookcase...seriously...so much swoon over that. I love how her house is tiny, but it's covered with books.
I also really enjoyed watching Flynn's attitude change throughout the story. He has so much guilt over what his brothers have given up to keep him out of jail...LOVE him.
Overall, it was just a great read. It took me a bit longer to read it than normal (which can be attributed to a story that isn't quite as tight as it could be), but I still really liked and enjoyed reading it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
March 23, 2018
This was a great story! It is book 2 of a 3 book series, and I've really enjoyed these brothers and their awesome family connection.
Flynn Maguire used to have a different name. He also used to be in the Chicago Irish mob. Well, sort of. He ran their legitimate construction business, and kept himself out of trouble to keep it running smoothly. But when the boss chooses him as the fall guy for a crime, his older brother Rafe (the boss' right hand man) decides to turn evidence and put all 3 brothers, including their youngest brother Kellan who is totally innocent, into witness protection. Flynn agreed it was the right call, as he had no interest in going to jail, especially for something he didn't do. But, it's been a lot harder adjustment than he anticipated. He's mad at his brother, at the world, but mostly at himself. He's been in a crap mood for months, and he's worried he'll never snap himself out of it. Then, a shy, pretty waitress at the bar where he works takes him by surprise.
Sierra is on the run from a criminal ex-boyfriend, and an art counterfeiting ring she never wanted to be a part of. She's an amazing artist, but she had to drop out of her master's program at the art institute and go on the run, when she witnessed a crime committed by her ex. She's found herself in the small seaside Oregon town, and she's waiting tables at the local bar. She of course notices the hot bartender, Flynn, but assumes he's way out of her league. Not to mention that she's trying to keep a low profile so no one finds out her secrets. She really likes this small town, and the people she's found there, and she doesn't want to give them up if she can help it.
Flynn and Sierra have great chemistry from the start. They're both hesitant to start anything, as they are both lying about who they are, and they know it'll be harder to keep up if they get close to someone. But, eventually, neither of them can resist. I really loved their fun banter, and how in sync they were with each other from the beginning. They both had their secrets, and strong reasons for keeping them, but they really started to see how they could trust each other, and I appreciated how they took their time with everything.
All of the kooky side characters in this small town are highly entertaining, and I love each of them. The owner of the local coffee shop/marijuana dispensary is a total hoot, the grumpy retired Marine who acts as a neighborhood watch of sorts is a delight, and the bar owner with the heart of gold is such a lovable brute. I enjoy all their interactions with each other and with the brothers.
In the 2 books so far, what I really love the most is the strong bond between the 3 brothers. Even when things are hard, and terrible, they have stuck together through it all, and I love their relationship. They always have each others backs, and I am so looking forward to the time when all 3 of them are truly happy in their new situation, all at the same time. I'm really anticipating the final book, and seeing more of Kellan's obvious connection to their U.S. Marshals handler, Delaney. Kellan's really the only true innocent of the 3 brothers, and funny enough, he'll be the only one who can be honest from the start with his heroine, so it'll be a whole different dynamic. I can't wait to read it.
ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club
Flynn Maguire used to have a different name. He also used to be in the Chicago Irish mob. Well, sort of. He ran their legitimate construction business, and kept himself out of trouble to keep it running smoothly. But when the boss chooses him as the fall guy for a crime, his older brother Rafe (the boss' right hand man) decides to turn evidence and put all 3 brothers, including their youngest brother Kellan who is totally innocent, into witness protection. Flynn agreed it was the right call, as he had no interest in going to jail, especially for something he didn't do. But, it's been a lot harder adjustment than he anticipated. He's mad at his brother, at the world, but mostly at himself. He's been in a crap mood for months, and he's worried he'll never snap himself out of it. Then, a shy, pretty waitress at the bar where he works takes him by surprise.
Sierra is on the run from a criminal ex-boyfriend, and an art counterfeiting ring she never wanted to be a part of. She's an amazing artist, but she had to drop out of her master's program at the art institute and go on the run, when she witnessed a crime committed by her ex. She's found herself in the small seaside Oregon town, and she's waiting tables at the local bar. She of course notices the hot bartender, Flynn, but assumes he's way out of her league. Not to mention that she's trying to keep a low profile so no one finds out her secrets. She really likes this small town, and the people she's found there, and she doesn't want to give them up if she can help it.
Flynn and Sierra have great chemistry from the start. They're both hesitant to start anything, as they are both lying about who they are, and they know it'll be harder to keep up if they get close to someone. But, eventually, neither of them can resist. I really loved their fun banter, and how in sync they were with each other from the beginning. They both had their secrets, and strong reasons for keeping them, but they really started to see how they could trust each other, and I appreciated how they took their time with everything.
All of the kooky side characters in this small town are highly entertaining, and I love each of them. The owner of the local coffee shop/marijuana dispensary is a total hoot, the grumpy retired Marine who acts as a neighborhood watch of sorts is a delight, and the bar owner with the heart of gold is such a lovable brute. I enjoy all their interactions with each other and with the brothers.
In the 2 books so far, what I really love the most is the strong bond between the 3 brothers. Even when things are hard, and terrible, they have stuck together through it all, and I love their relationship. They always have each others backs, and I am so looking forward to the time when all 3 of them are truly happy in their new situation, all at the same time. I'm really anticipating the final book, and seeing more of Kellan's obvious connection to their U.S. Marshals handler, Delaney. Kellan's really the only true innocent of the 3 brothers, and funny enough, he'll be the only one who can be honest from the start with his heroine, so it'll be a whole different dynamic. I can't wait to read it.
ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club
April 11, 2018
After reading Bad for Her last year, I couldn't wait to read more about the Maguire boys! I loved their family dynamic. Not to mention they were one hundred percent yummy.
Never Been Good is Flynn's story. Over the past few months, Flynn has accumulated a decent amount of guilt and regret. He's the reason why the Maguire boys had to change their identities and enter Witness Protection. But the part that kills him the most? He had the "safe" job for the mob - the one that was by the books.
Flynn's attitude and reluctance to acclimate to his new life was a big portion of Bad for Her, and during that time, I came to really like him. Yeah, he had some major sass and cockiness, but it was understandable. I think anyone would feel the way he did in his shoes. In Never Been Good, Flynn finally starts to turn his life around again, letting the anger be replaced with happiness and maybe even hope. I loved seeing Flynn slowly come out of his self-imposed hibernation. He was a guy that had so much to offer, especially when it came to the bar and the town's festival. Honestly, I think Flynn may be my favorite Maguire boy yet! He has definite sexiness, but he also has sweetness (the way he was with the town's children as well as Sierra was swoon city!) and determination. Three qualities I always love in my heroes.
A big part of Flynn's attitude adjustment is thanks to Sierra Williams, a young twenty something that's also let her past get the best of her lately. Just like Flynn, Sierra's living life but she's not really living life. She's going through the motions, hoping to not catch anyone's attentions, and lost in her own thoughts. I enjoyed reading from Sierra's POV. Even though she gives some major stand-offish vibes, you can still tell how sweet and willing to help she is. I also loved that her artwork was such a major part of the story. It was nice to see a character so incredibly passionate about the work that they did. Over the course of the book, Sierra slowly comes out of her shell as well, and I loved the progress she made. I was cheering for her the whole way through, especially when it came to getting the man.
Never Been Good's plot mainly involves Sierra and Flynn's romance. I thought that Christi did a fantastic job of developing the romance. It wasn't too fast nor too slow, and I especially liked how she built up their banter and friendship up first through text messages. Their conversations were one of my favorite parts of the book! I also liked that Sierra and Flynn never wanted to change each other; instead, they focused on helping one another see what had been there all along. It was heartwarming to say the least - nothing was better than seeing these two take on the world together! In addition to the romance, there are also updates regarding the upcoming trial. I enjoyed seeing Delaney again, especially when she yelled at the boys to be good. Things even got slightly dicey at the end, which made me even more unwilling to put this book down. Additionally, Sierra's past also became a tiny mystery as well. While I figured the majority of it out half-way through the book, I still found it to be an enjoyable storyline. It added layers to Sierra's character.
My only compliant? I wish there had been more moments between all the brothers.
Overall, Never Been Good yet again proves that the Maguire boys may be trouble but they also have a lot of good to them as well! I can't suggest this series highly enough. Now if only September would hurry up...
Never Been Good is Flynn's story. Over the past few months, Flynn has accumulated a decent amount of guilt and regret. He's the reason why the Maguire boys had to change their identities and enter Witness Protection. But the part that kills him the most? He had the "safe" job for the mob - the one that was by the books.
Flynn's attitude and reluctance to acclimate to his new life was a big portion of Bad for Her, and during that time, I came to really like him. Yeah, he had some major sass and cockiness, but it was understandable. I think anyone would feel the way he did in his shoes. In Never Been Good, Flynn finally starts to turn his life around again, letting the anger be replaced with happiness and maybe even hope. I loved seeing Flynn slowly come out of his self-imposed hibernation. He was a guy that had so much to offer, especially when it came to the bar and the town's festival. Honestly, I think Flynn may be my favorite Maguire boy yet! He has definite sexiness, but he also has sweetness (the way he was with the town's children as well as Sierra was swoon city!) and determination. Three qualities I always love in my heroes.
A big part of Flynn's attitude adjustment is thanks to Sierra Williams, a young twenty something that's also let her past get the best of her lately. Just like Flynn, Sierra's living life but she's not really living life. She's going through the motions, hoping to not catch anyone's attentions, and lost in her own thoughts. I enjoyed reading from Sierra's POV. Even though she gives some major stand-offish vibes, you can still tell how sweet and willing to help she is. I also loved that her artwork was such a major part of the story. It was nice to see a character so incredibly passionate about the work that they did. Over the course of the book, Sierra slowly comes out of her shell as well, and I loved the progress she made. I was cheering for her the whole way through, especially when it came to getting the man.
Never Been Good's plot mainly involves Sierra and Flynn's romance. I thought that Christi did a fantastic job of developing the romance. It wasn't too fast nor too slow, and I especially liked how she built up their banter and friendship up first through text messages. Their conversations were one of my favorite parts of the book! I also liked that Sierra and Flynn never wanted to change each other; instead, they focused on helping one another see what had been there all along. It was heartwarming to say the least - nothing was better than seeing these two take on the world together! In addition to the romance, there are also updates regarding the upcoming trial. I enjoyed seeing Delaney again, especially when she yelled at the boys to be good. Things even got slightly dicey at the end, which made me even more unwilling to put this book down. Additionally, Sierra's past also became a tiny mystery as well. While I figured the majority of it out half-way through the book, I still found it to be an enjoyable storyline. It added layers to Sierra's character.
My only compliant? I wish there had been more moments between all the brothers.
Overall, Never Been Good yet again proves that the Maguire boys may be trouble but they also have a lot of good to them as well! I can't suggest this series highly enough. Now if only September would hurry up...
April 16, 2018
Originally posted on Adria's Musings and Reviews.
* A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
What’s it About? When the mob turned on Flynn Maguire and his brothers he had no choice but to join the Witness Protection program with his two brothers. He used to run a legitimate business for the mob, now he’s a bartender in a small town in Oregon. He’s angry at the betrayal and the loss of the life he knew but at least his new job has some perks. Namely his coworker Sierra Williams. Sierra just wants a quiet, normal life. She escaped a bad relationship already and Flynn has “Bad Boy” written all over him, only he’s not really bad, not in the toxic sense. When Flynn’s defenses aren’t up he’s actually kind of sweet. Definitely sexy, and making Sierra question her decision to stay away from him.
Overall reaction to the story? This series has intrigued me from the start. Brothers in WITSEC and having a difficult time adjusting? Yes please. I enjoyed the first book enough but I think Never Been Good is my favorite. We’ll see because there’s still one more brother left.
Flynn has been the most bitter of the three brothers about the sudden change in his life. He knows that it had to happen if they wanted to survive but at the same time, he kind of resents his older brother for making that decision for him and their younger brother Kellan. I understood how Flynn felt being ripped away from the life he was familiar with into a dull existence (Though I why he wouldn’t fall in love with the Oregon scenery I don’t know. I am in love with Oregon and I’ve never been there!), but I wanted to shake him and tell him “Enough already! Get over yourself man! You HAD to run and hide! If not you’d be dead! LET. IT. GO.!” He needed to get a grip on facts and let go of the past so bad. He’s just so mad at the world that he was missing the good things in his new life. I liked him though. That anger, bitterness, and frustration gave him something to overcome and a chance to grow as a character. Underneath all that was a sweet, protective guy that needed something or in this case someone to bring out that tender side of him. I think having Flynn behave like such a grump made those moments of tenderness all the more valuable and enjoyable.
Sierra was a quiet one and I was worried she’d be a doormat because she was trying so hard to be invisible to men. She had one foot out the door and her eyes on the lookout for trouble. Poor thing was just so ready to run that she was missing out on the opportunities for a good life just like Flynn. I loved that Sierra was observant, the quiet ones usually are, but she noticed things about Flynn almost right away after he quit putting so much distance between them. I loved that she had a sense of humor and strength hidden among all that nervous fear. She was fun and like Flynn, did a lot of growing during the course of the story.
Together these two were so much fun. They both let their guards down to show who they really were and I loved those versions of the characters. Flynn was fun, lighthearted, and caring. Sierra was sassy, funny, and protective. I think these two were better together than apart. There was a lot of laughter in their relationship which wasn’t there when they were apart. I loved their romance because of that. It could have been all angst, seriousness, and bleakness which would have made Never Been Good rather dull but Barth found the light side of these characters and that balanced out Flynn and Sierra’s troubles with the added benefit of making their relationship fun and at times terribly romantic.
Flynn’s brothers can be fun too. They care about each other but at the same time they just love to make each other mad. I loved the scenes with them together, watching them mend their shaky relationship in the new lives they’re in. I’m so excited about youngest brother Kellan’s story, he is quite the rascal.
Click It or Skip It? Click It. Flynn and Sierra are such fun characters and the setup is entertaining, I really enjoyed this one.
* A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
What’s it About? When the mob turned on Flynn Maguire and his brothers he had no choice but to join the Witness Protection program with his two brothers. He used to run a legitimate business for the mob, now he’s a bartender in a small town in Oregon. He’s angry at the betrayal and the loss of the life he knew but at least his new job has some perks. Namely his coworker Sierra Williams. Sierra just wants a quiet, normal life. She escaped a bad relationship already and Flynn has “Bad Boy” written all over him, only he’s not really bad, not in the toxic sense. When Flynn’s defenses aren’t up he’s actually kind of sweet. Definitely sexy, and making Sierra question her decision to stay away from him.
Overall reaction to the story? This series has intrigued me from the start. Brothers in WITSEC and having a difficult time adjusting? Yes please. I enjoyed the first book enough but I think Never Been Good is my favorite. We’ll see because there’s still one more brother left.
Flynn has been the most bitter of the three brothers about the sudden change in his life. He knows that it had to happen if they wanted to survive but at the same time, he kind of resents his older brother for making that decision for him and their younger brother Kellan. I understood how Flynn felt being ripped away from the life he was familiar with into a dull existence (Though I why he wouldn’t fall in love with the Oregon scenery I don’t know. I am in love with Oregon and I’ve never been there!), but I wanted to shake him and tell him “Enough already! Get over yourself man! You HAD to run and hide! If not you’d be dead! LET. IT. GO.!” He needed to get a grip on facts and let go of the past so bad. He’s just so mad at the world that he was missing the good things in his new life. I liked him though. That anger, bitterness, and frustration gave him something to overcome and a chance to grow as a character. Underneath all that was a sweet, protective guy that needed something or in this case someone to bring out that tender side of him. I think having Flynn behave like such a grump made those moments of tenderness all the more valuable and enjoyable.
Sierra was a quiet one and I was worried she’d be a doormat because she was trying so hard to be invisible to men. She had one foot out the door and her eyes on the lookout for trouble. Poor thing was just so ready to run that she was missing out on the opportunities for a good life just like Flynn. I loved that Sierra was observant, the quiet ones usually are, but she noticed things about Flynn almost right away after he quit putting so much distance between them. I loved that she had a sense of humor and strength hidden among all that nervous fear. She was fun and like Flynn, did a lot of growing during the course of the story.
Together these two were so much fun. They both let their guards down to show who they really were and I loved those versions of the characters. Flynn was fun, lighthearted, and caring. Sierra was sassy, funny, and protective. I think these two were better together than apart. There was a lot of laughter in their relationship which wasn’t there when they were apart. I loved their romance because of that. It could have been all angst, seriousness, and bleakness which would have made Never Been Good rather dull but Barth found the light side of these characters and that balanced out Flynn and Sierra’s troubles with the added benefit of making their relationship fun and at times terribly romantic.
Flynn’s brothers can be fun too. They care about each other but at the same time they just love to make each other mad. I loved the scenes with them together, watching them mend their shaky relationship in the new lives they’re in. I’m so excited about youngest brother Kellan’s story, he is quite the rascal.
Click It or Skip It? Click It. Flynn and Sierra are such fun characters and the setup is entertaining, I really enjoyed this one.
April 21, 2018
Flynn Maguire is feeling pretty sorry for himself. After being placed in Witness Protection for turning against the Chicago Irish Mob after they turned on him, he and his brothers are now stuck in a tiny, yet quirky town in Oregon. He’s glad to be alive, but bitter that he’s never had a choice in where his life would go whole working for the mob or now that he is in WitSec. His only current pleasure . . .his secret crush on his coworker.
Sierra Williams is a woman on the run from her past. She’s made it to Bandon, Oregon, and wants to put down some roots. She’s got it bad for her super sexy co-worker, Flynn, but she knows she can’t fall for a bad boy again . . . . except maybe he’s not such a bad guy after all.
Flynn and Sierra are falling fast and hard, but their relationship is built on such a pile of secrets that it’s bound to come tumbling down. Will Flynn and Sierra be able to move past their baggage to live in the now or will their pasts keep them from a future together?
I’ve been not so patiently waiting for the next Maguire brother’s story, and Christi Barth didn’t disappoint. Flynn is carrying around the weight of the world on his big and strong shoulders. He feels tremendous guilt that it was his fault he and his brothers had to give up everything they had ever known to go into Witness Protection. He’s moody and spiralling down fast . . . until one woman’s smile causes him to stop and truly look around him to help him realize that perhaps things aren’t as bad as they seem and that just perhaps he can be happen in his new life.
Sierra is a beautiful, talented and brave woman. She’s running scared and for her life, but she’s ready to put down new roots and make a stand. She can’t help but to fall for Flynn and all the care and charm he hides under his moodiness. The more time they spend together, the quicker they fall.
Flynn is willing to risk his happiness, though, to make sure that Sierra is safe. It says so much about his strength of character and I fell in love with him even more! Now, it’s up to Sierra to see if she can leave her past behind while accepting Flynn’s and moving to a future. It’s intense and emotional and I couldn’t hope but to root for a happy ever after.
I also fell in love with the brother’s witness protection handler, US Marshall Delaney Evans. Her human side definitely shined in this book and the teases we saw of her and Kellan tantalize at what the author has in store for the final book in this series.
Never Been Good was a fabulous read. While it can be read as a standalone, do yourself a favor and snag book one Bad For Her to learn about Flynn’s older brother Rafe and his love interest.
Letting go of your past and trying to trust when it’s been broken is never easy, but it sure is an emotional ride and a gorgeous ending when you get there! 5 stars.
Sierra Williams is a woman on the run from her past. She’s made it to Bandon, Oregon, and wants to put down some roots. She’s got it bad for her super sexy co-worker, Flynn, but she knows she can’t fall for a bad boy again . . . . except maybe he’s not such a bad guy after all.
Flynn and Sierra are falling fast and hard, but their relationship is built on such a pile of secrets that it’s bound to come tumbling down. Will Flynn and Sierra be able to move past their baggage to live in the now or will their pasts keep them from a future together?
I’ve been not so patiently waiting for the next Maguire brother’s story, and Christi Barth didn’t disappoint. Flynn is carrying around the weight of the world on his big and strong shoulders. He feels tremendous guilt that it was his fault he and his brothers had to give up everything they had ever known to go into Witness Protection. He’s moody and spiralling down fast . . . until one woman’s smile causes him to stop and truly look around him to help him realize that perhaps things aren’t as bad as they seem and that just perhaps he can be happen in his new life.
Sierra is a beautiful, talented and brave woman. She’s running scared and for her life, but she’s ready to put down new roots and make a stand. She can’t help but to fall for Flynn and all the care and charm he hides under his moodiness. The more time they spend together, the quicker they fall.
Flynn is willing to risk his happiness, though, to make sure that Sierra is safe. It says so much about his strength of character and I fell in love with him even more! Now, it’s up to Sierra to see if she can leave her past behind while accepting Flynn’s and moving to a future. It’s intense and emotional and I couldn’t hope but to root for a happy ever after.
I also fell in love with the brother’s witness protection handler, US Marshall Delaney Evans. Her human side definitely shined in this book and the teases we saw of her and Kellan tantalize at what the author has in store for the final book in this series.
Never Been Good was a fabulous read. While it can be read as a standalone, do yourself a favor and snag book one Bad For Her to learn about Flynn’s older brother Rafe and his love interest.
Letting go of your past and trying to trust when it’s been broken is never easy, but it sure is an emotional ride and a gorgeous ending when you get there! 5 stars.
April 9, 2018
I love how the Bad Boys Gone Good series makes you consider what it would be like to have your life wiped clean; to start somewhere with a completely fresh slate apart from the memories you carry with you. What would you choose to do with that amount of possibility, knowing that you didn't have to worry about finding the money to fund your new life and having the freedom to find something that 'fit' who you have always wanted to be but lacked the opportunity because of other obligations.
Flynn is the middle Maguire brother, the brooding one, resentful of the WITSEC program but for reasons other than the obvious. Flynn has blamed himself for their current situation even though it was Rafe (Bad For Her) who placed them in witness protection. That kernel of negativity has slowly eaten away at Flynn creating his perpetual bad mood and an unusual rift with his brothers. That is until Sierra shines her light into his grey world bringing it to glorious colour.
However, Sierra has secrets of her own having fled her previous life after being used as a pawn in a very dangerous game. Sierra, understandably, has a lot of emotional barriers in place to protect herself. Yet, her innate goodness and optimism are not something that can be contained.Especially surprising given her upbringing in foster care. Sierra is a shining example to us all the appreciate the little things in our lives.
With both Sierra and Flynn guarding their pasts, they have skirted around their attraction while working together in the bar. Until the inevitable chemical explosion, the sweetness bomb came as a surprise aftershock ;) Flynn's romantic skills rival his MMA fighting skills ;)
Building their new lives and being together require a level of trust between Flynn and Sierra, something they both find difficult considering the basis of their new lives is built on lies. Adding to the tension is the looming trial Flynn and his brothers are involved in to bring down the Chicago Irish Mob and Sierra's own fears for her safety. Throw in an appearance of an unwelcome visitor to their new town and you have an intense plot.
I adore the town of Bandon and the quirky characters who live there, especially the way in which they take care of each other along with taking deserving newcomers under their collective wing ♥
Sneaky little clues have been placed within Never Been Good leading to speculation regarding the last remaining single brother, Kellan. I cannot wait to learn more about the 'good' brother!!!!
Flynn is the middle Maguire brother, the brooding one, resentful of the WITSEC program but for reasons other than the obvious. Flynn has blamed himself for their current situation even though it was Rafe (Bad For Her) who placed them in witness protection. That kernel of negativity has slowly eaten away at Flynn creating his perpetual bad mood and an unusual rift with his brothers. That is until Sierra shines her light into his grey world bringing it to glorious colour.
However, Sierra has secrets of her own having fled her previous life after being used as a pawn in a very dangerous game. Sierra, understandably, has a lot of emotional barriers in place to protect herself. Yet, her innate goodness and optimism are not something that can be contained.Especially surprising given her upbringing in foster care. Sierra is a shining example to us all the appreciate the little things in our lives.
With both Sierra and Flynn guarding their pasts, they have skirted around their attraction while working together in the bar. Until the inevitable chemical explosion, the sweetness bomb came as a surprise aftershock ;) Flynn's romantic skills rival his MMA fighting skills ;)
Building their new lives and being together require a level of trust between Flynn and Sierra, something they both find difficult considering the basis of their new lives is built on lies. Adding to the tension is the looming trial Flynn and his brothers are involved in to bring down the Chicago Irish Mob and Sierra's own fears for her safety. Throw in an appearance of an unwelcome visitor to their new town and you have an intense plot.
I adore the town of Bandon and the quirky characters who live there, especially the way in which they take care of each other along with taking deserving newcomers under their collective wing ♥
Sneaky little clues have been placed within Never Been Good leading to speculation regarding the last remaining single brother, Kellan. I cannot wait to learn more about the 'good' brother!!!!
April 3, 2018
Reviewed for Night Owl Reviews
3.25 Stars
I was rather intrigued by the Maguire brothers since I read “Bad for Her” and was truly entertained by Rafe and Mollie’s word dance throughout the reading. “Never Been Good” is a step further in the siblings department for the Maguires. Where the previous book showed sulking and cantankerous Flynn, here we got glimpses of him pre-WITSEC in all his playful and optimistic attitude. “Never Been Good” tell his healing process in the act, dealing with the guilt that ate him up. I loved the Maguires’ interactions here, how they rallied-up (for each other) when necessary. It was one of the (few) things that moved me about this book. I’m a sucker for family, loyalty, and the whole male bonding shown here!
At first, I was also all for Sierra, the heroine in this installment. Broke, deceived by an ex, and on the run, this girl showed spunk and rebuilt her life from practically nothing! What’s not to love about that? Coming from her background, her being paranoid and difficult to trust others, especially men, was understandable. I could also accept the attraction between her and Flynn, that sparked all but as soon as the story began. For one, it was implied in the first book, so it’s not as if this was an instant draw or something. Also, the hint that it had started earlier off page was implied from both characters’ POV.
So, the pair might seem to flirt a lot from the get go, but I still rooted for them as they were basically on the same boat, so to speak. What piqued me was Sierra’s sudden judgmental streak when faced with the same situation Flynn had. Her hypocritical turn and Flynn’s unconditional feeling for her put me in a sour mood, especially given what he’d done for her.
To sum up, I’m still rather fond of this second entry to the “Bad Boys Gone Good” series, even if I felt the plot rather planer and less hair-raising than the previous book. And, given the hints thrown from Kellan’s directions from the first and second book it’s interesting how the final installment will reveal. For sure, I will look forward to read the youngest Maguire’s and their handler’s story in “Got It Bad”.
Copyright Night Owl Reviews
3.25 Stars
I was rather intrigued by the Maguire brothers since I read “Bad for Her” and was truly entertained by Rafe and Mollie’s word dance throughout the reading. “Never Been Good” is a step further in the siblings department for the Maguires. Where the previous book showed sulking and cantankerous Flynn, here we got glimpses of him pre-WITSEC in all his playful and optimistic attitude. “Never Been Good” tell his healing process in the act, dealing with the guilt that ate him up. I loved the Maguires’ interactions here, how they rallied-up (for each other) when necessary. It was one of the (few) things that moved me about this book. I’m a sucker for family, loyalty, and the whole male bonding shown here!
At first, I was also all for Sierra, the heroine in this installment. Broke, deceived by an ex, and on the run, this girl showed spunk and rebuilt her life from practically nothing! What’s not to love about that? Coming from her background, her being paranoid and difficult to trust others, especially men, was understandable. I could also accept the attraction between her and Flynn, that sparked all but as soon as the story began. For one, it was implied in the first book, so it’s not as if this was an instant draw or something. Also, the hint that it had started earlier off page was implied from both characters’ POV.
So, the pair might seem to flirt a lot from the get go, but I still rooted for them as they were basically on the same boat, so to speak. What piqued me was Sierra’s sudden judgmental streak when faced with the same situation Flynn had. Her hypocritical turn and Flynn’s unconditional feeling for her put me in a sour mood, especially given what he’d done for her.
To sum up, I’m still rather fond of this second entry to the “Bad Boys Gone Good” series, even if I felt the plot rather planer and less hair-raising than the previous book. And, given the hints thrown from Kellan’s directions from the first and second book it’s interesting how the final installment will reveal. For sure, I will look forward to read the youngest Maguire’s and their handler’s story in “Got It Bad”.
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