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Freebirds #3
Another One Bites the Dust
Her
I wanted him, but couldn’t find the courage to have him. You know that feeling, the one where you’re too scared to go to sleep, too scared to go out, and too scared to do anything? Ever since my assault, I’ve been functioning, but not living. That was until I met that motorcycle riding man with such a deep gravelly voice that it sent shivers down my spine. He helped me through some of the darkest moments of my life.
Him
She was a cock tease pure and simple. Or so I thought. What I believed to be a game on her part, turned out to be a bone-deep fear of everyday life. We helped each other cope, and slowly our friendship turned into something more.
Them
Circumstances broke the two of us apart just as we decided we wanted to be together. A vengeful woman sets out to ruin Max and anything he holds dear in his life. Payton has gone through so much in her life that enduring one more thing just might break her. Only Max taught Payton a few things. Never hold back. Never hesitate. Do something stupid, and always learn from your mistakes. Together, they can overcome anything.
I wanted him, but couldn’t find the courage to have him. You know that feeling, the one where you’re too scared to go to sleep, too scared to go out, and too scared to do anything? Ever since my assault, I’ve been functioning, but not living. That was until I met that motorcycle riding man with such a deep gravelly voice that it sent shivers down my spine. He helped me through some of the darkest moments of my life.
Him
She was a cock tease pure and simple. Or so I thought. What I believed to be a game on her part, turned out to be a bone-deep fear of everyday life. We helped each other cope, and slowly our friendship turned into something more.
Them
Circumstances broke the two of us apart just as we decided we wanted to be together. A vengeful woman sets out to ruin Max and anything he holds dear in his life. Payton has gone through so much in her life that enduring one more thing just might break her. Only Max taught Payton a few things. Never hold back. Never hesitate. Do something stupid, and always learn from your mistakes. Together, they can overcome anything.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 16, 2013
283 people are currently reading
1175 people want to read
About the author
Lani Lynn Vale
162 books7,264 followersLani Lynn Vale is married to the love of her life that she met in high school. She fell in love with him because he was wearing baseball pants. Ten years later they have three perfectly crazy children and a cat named Demon who likes to wake her up at ungodly times in the night. They live in the greatest state in the world, Texas. She writes contemporary and romantic suspense, and has a love for all things romance. You can find Lani in front of her computer writing away in her fictional characters world...that is until her husband and kids demand sustenance in the form of food and drink.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
February 19, 2016
So, I've struggled with how to rate this book. I really enjoyed the first two in this series.
I loved Max. After reading about him in books 1 and 2, I was really excited to get to read his story. I loved how he was with Payton. He was so good to her and did all the things he needed to do to make her feel safe, loved, and protected. I know he will be a good husband and father.
Payton is where I have trouble. I did not relate to her at all. I love Cheyenne and Ember (still girl crushing). They are funny and witty and while they can come across immature at times, they also behaved as adults most of the time. To me, Payton stayed immature the whole time. Yes, she had her moments where she did "adult" things. She was great in a crisis. But once the crisis was over, she became childish again. Even her behavior towards Max was immature to me. And maybe it was because she was painted as a small waif of a thing who wears boys underwear, I don't know.
Also, Payton was supposed to be scared of men and scared to be alone etc after she was attacked. Apparently, she went to work and straight home where she would lock her doors with multiple locks as well as having other means of protection such as a stun gun. We hear a little about this in the first two books and the prologue of this one. However, I never really got the feeling that she was affected at all. I mean, I was TOLD she was, but I never saw it in her character therefore, I never got to see her growth in becoming independent and healing. I would have really liked to have seen more of that. If I had, then maybe I could have related to her better.
One thing that has bugged me in this entire series, and really got to me in this one, is that the mc's can't seem to catch a break. There is always someone gunning for them, crashing into their car, shooting at them or punching them. It really gets to be a bit much. I'm all for some suspense and drama but it seems it's just a little bit overdone. Maybe this has bugged me because I read 3 books in a row...I don't know.
I do adore this author's heroes. They love their women immensely and it shows in everything they do. I also love how any type of relationship conflict is resolved immediately. We don't have to go days and days of useless emotional angst between the mc's.
I have to put one thing in here that really bugged me. There was a scene in the ER where the doctors were working on a patient doing CPR trying to bring him back. Payton makes a comment about the doctor singing "Another One Bites the Dust" and others began humming then joining in. She also says doctors have weird senses of humor and paramedics are the worst. She says they are taught to get a certain rhythm while doing chest compressions and another song used, or a better choice, would have been "Staying Alive". I have to say, I was offended. I can just imagine how it would have looked to someone else, say a family member, when they see this person dying and the doctor or EMT is singing this song. I just felt it was inappropriate and again, childish. To be honest, I almost DNF'd right then because of it but wanted to keep with the story. I really hope I don't run into any of this in future books I read.
**4 Stars for Max, 2 for Payton
I loved Max. After reading about him in books 1 and 2, I was really excited to get to read his story. I loved how he was with Payton. He was so good to her and did all the things he needed to do to make her feel safe, loved, and protected. I know he will be a good husband and father.
Payton is where I have trouble. I did not relate to her at all. I love Cheyenne and Ember (still girl crushing). They are funny and witty and while they can come across immature at times, they also behaved as adults most of the time. To me, Payton stayed immature the whole time. Yes, she had her moments where she did "adult" things. She was great in a crisis. But once the crisis was over, she became childish again. Even her behavior towards Max was immature to me. And maybe it was because she was painted as a small waif of a thing who wears boys underwear, I don't know.
Also, Payton was supposed to be scared of men and scared to be alone etc after she was attacked. Apparently, she went to work and straight home where she would lock her doors with multiple locks as well as having other means of protection such as a stun gun. We hear a little about this in the first two books and the prologue of this one. However, I never really got the feeling that she was affected at all. I mean, I was TOLD she was, but I never saw it in her character therefore, I never got to see her growth in becoming independent and healing. I would have really liked to have seen more of that. If I had, then maybe I could have related to her better.
One thing that has bugged me in this entire series, and really got to me in this one, is that the mc's can't seem to catch a break. There is always someone gunning for them, crashing into their car, shooting at them or punching them. It really gets to be a bit much. I'm all for some suspense and drama but it seems it's just a little bit overdone. Maybe this has bugged me because I read 3 books in a row...I don't know.
I do adore this author's heroes. They love their women immensely and it shows in everything they do. I also love how any type of relationship conflict is resolved immediately. We don't have to go days and days of useless emotional angst between the mc's.
I have to put one thing in here that really bugged me. There was a scene in the ER where the doctors were working on a patient doing CPR trying to bring him back. Payton makes a comment about the doctor singing "Another One Bites the Dust" and others began humming then joining in. She also says doctors have weird senses of humor and paramedics are the worst. She says they are taught to get a certain rhythm while doing chest compressions and another song used, or a better choice, would have been "Staying Alive". I have to say, I was offended. I can just imagine how it would have looked to someone else, say a family member, when they see this person dying and the doctor or EMT is singing this song. I just felt it was inappropriate and again, childish. To be honest, I almost DNF'd right then because of it but wanted to keep with the story. I really hope I don't run into any of this in future books I read.
**4 Stars for Max, 2 for Payton
June 9, 2021
Dang, but this story had so much heartbreak! Not only did Max have his demons, he was determined to fight the ones Payton was having a hard time facing. Once they got past their misunderstandings and assumptions, their relationship became magical.
The suspense part of this book was intense. Imagine being hunted by a lunatic for no reason. A lunatic that had no problem causing harm to kids. Yeah, it wasn't hard to wish that Max would end the villain's life slowly with some torture.
Payton was just as immature and childish as Cheyenne and Ember, which is really getting annoying. Please save me from what's supposed to be funny and is instead very frustrating.
Max was such a sweetheart and an outstanding hero. He saw Payton, he wanted Payton, and he saw NO ONE ELSE once she was on his radar. I enjoyed the glimpses given of Max's military career and I wanted to see how far the master interrogator would go.
Another highlight of this story, for me anyway, was seeing little Harleigh (from F-Bomb), Dax (from Just Kidding) and Bennett (from Kill Shot, which I haven't read yet). I love how this author ties everything and everyone together!!
Check out https://www.nbiblioholic.com for all my ish
June 17, 2020
3.5 Bubble Stars
I am so torn with this series…….
The storylines are good. They are interesting and have suspense and action which I like along with a love story but the writing itself lacks. I find the dialogue to be immature at times and annoying. It can also be crude and trust me I am no prude so for me to say that means something.
Sometimes there is what I call “guy humor” which is silly humor usually involving bodily functions (ie: farts). Guy humor is just really not my thing.
The characters are okay. In this one the heroine, Payton seems so angry and childish at times. The heros in these books are definitely alpha males that seem to like the whole insta-love thing.
Again……the storylines are really good with a lot of interest and activity but for me the writing itself is just not up to par.
I am so torn with this series…….
The storylines are good. They are interesting and have suspense and action which I like along with a love story but the writing itself lacks. I find the dialogue to be immature at times and annoying. It can also be crude and trust me I am no prude so for me to say that means something.
Sometimes there is what I call “guy humor” which is silly humor usually involving bodily functions (ie: farts). Guy humor is just really not my thing.
The characters are okay. In this one the heroine, Payton seems so angry and childish at times. The heros in these books are definitely alpha males that seem to like the whole insta-love thing.
Again……the storylines are really good with a lot of interest and activity but for me the writing itself is just not up to par.
August 22, 2015
Sizzling Pages Romance Reviews
Nichole's Sizzling Reviews
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Twitter:@Sizzlingpages
Email: sizzlingpages@gmail.com
OK so I think I realize now why I absolutely love and adore Lani Lynn
Vale's writing style. It's because it just seems so down to earth. From
laugh out loud funny moments to sobbing emotional ups and downs. The
fact is this author just gives me authentic stories with just enough
fictional suspense that it sucks me in and keeps me there. Max and
Payton couldn't have fit more perfectly together. I just really fell
hard for this couple. Lani doesn't steep her stories in jealousy or
other women drama. It's not necessary to make a love story work and this
author knows it. Her heroes are loyal and they aren't afraid of falling
and aren't afraid of family. I'm so hooked on this author I might need
therapy. As of right now Lani holds the number one spot on my Safe
author list. Suspense, sexy times and crazy family with authentic love
stories. I simply just love it.
Nichole's Sizzling Reviews
Sizzling Pages @ Facebook
Sizling Pages on TSU
Twitter:@Sizzlingpages
Email: sizzlingpages@gmail.com
OK so I think I realize now why I absolutely love and adore Lani Lynn
Vale's writing style. It's because it just seems so down to earth. From
laugh out loud funny moments to sobbing emotional ups and downs. The
fact is this author just gives me authentic stories with just enough
fictional suspense that it sucks me in and keeps me there. Max and
Payton couldn't have fit more perfectly together. I just really fell
hard for this couple. Lani doesn't steep her stories in jealousy or
other women drama. It's not necessary to make a love story work and this
author knows it. Her heroes are loyal and they aren't afraid of falling
and aren't afraid of family. I'm so hooked on this author I might need
therapy. As of right now Lani holds the number one spot on my Safe
author list. Suspense, sexy times and crazy family with authentic love
stories. I simply just love it.
January 19, 2019
Another enjoyable book in this series.
I like how each of her series are connected to each other, so you are seeing other characthers from other series being mentioned or making an appearance. It´s like following a tv show of sort.
I like the simpleness of it, though it has some suspence and a little bit of drama, but nothing that gives me angst and heartbreak. At them moment I´m not looking for anything heavy stuff to read. I just need some easy, breeze stuff in my life at the moment and those books are perfect for that. So for the moment I´ll keep going on my "Lani Lynn Vale books" marathon.
I like how each of her series are connected to each other, so you are seeing other characthers from other series being mentioned or making an appearance. It´s like following a tv show of sort.
I like the simpleness of it, though it has some suspence and a little bit of drama, but nothing that gives me angst and heartbreak. At them moment I´m not looking for anything heavy stuff to read. I just need some easy, breeze stuff in my life at the moment and those books are perfect for that. So for the moment I´ll keep going on my "Lani Lynn Vale books" marathon.
November 12, 2019
*audiobook review*
I have never read a book by Lani Lynn Vale before but actually have a few of her books on my kindle already. I was offered the opportunity to listen to the audiobook version of this, so of course I jumped at the chance. I immediately became engrossed in the story and loved the chemistry between Max and Payton. The story was fast paced right from the start and had me swinging between laughing out loud and pure rage! I think what put me off though, was the narration, so I will absolutely be going back to read this one myself...and I’ll be reading more of this authors other books too.
I have never read a book by Lani Lynn Vale before but actually have a few of her books on my kindle already. I was offered the opportunity to listen to the audiobook version of this, so of course I jumped at the chance. I immediately became engrossed in the story and loved the chemistry between Max and Payton. The story was fast paced right from the start and had me swinging between laughing out loud and pure rage! I think what put me off though, was the narration, so I will absolutely be going back to read this one myself...and I’ll be reading more of this authors other books too.
April 4, 2016
==> Re-read 2016, April 03
==> Read from January 14 to April 15, 2014
I liked a lot more reading in the second time I read the book.
The story is very interesting and begins to introduce us future characters of upcoming books and also begins to be more clearly the story of Sam and Silas.
I enjoyed and recommend.
------------------------
A lot going on at the same time that you get dizzy.
==> Read from January 14 to April 15, 2014
I liked a lot more reading in the second time I read the book.
The story is very interesting and begins to introduce us future characters of upcoming books and also begins to be more clearly the story of Sam and Silas.
I enjoyed and recommend.
------------------------
A lot going on at the same time that you get dizzy.
Read
October 8, 2014JUST NOT FOR ME - I really really wanted to like this series. All the blurbs offer the type of guilty pleasure Biker/MC books I tend to like. Several of my GR friends have read this series and enjoyed the books so I know I'm in the minority when I say, they just don't work for me. I'm not even sure what I don't like. The writing is okay... I'm not going to spend a lot of time worrying about it. With so many books to choose from, I've decided to not finish this one and not read anything else in the series either. I'm also not rating since I only got about 35% in.
June 26, 2017
Payton is full of sass with everyone, but she is also suffering from the remnants of a brutal attack that causes her to fear men. Being friends with Cheyenne and Ember though has her hanging out with the men of Free, they are big, protective, and all male. Max has wanted Payton since he met her, but he knows she is weary of men, especially him. Deciding to wait until Payton is ready, she finally makes her move the night before he is deployed. His deployment sets off a series of events though that put Payton in danger, Max vows to protect her as he plans to keep her forever.
Another great story by Lani Lynn Vale. Liked Payton and Max as a couple, he is a bit more alpha I think in the group. Payton is a handful and has a mind of her own. Had an unexpected twist I was not expecting. Excellent series.
Another great story by Lani Lynn Vale. Liked Payton and Max as a couple, he is a bit more alpha I think in the group. Payton is a handful and has a mind of her own. Had an unexpected twist I was not expecting. Excellent series.
August 1, 2015
This was another great one
I'm becoming a huge fan of this author. I've read all three books in this series so far and loved them all. Both characters loved each other heaps and weren't afraid to show it.
This book also gave a behind the scenes view of being in a relationship with a serviceman. The uncertainty of your loved one returning is heartbreaking. It was also interesting to learn more about the life of a neonatal nurse.
Great family dynamics with lots of love and support shown.
The steam factor is high between Max and Payton and the author does it well.
Will definitely be reading more from this author.
I'm becoming a huge fan of this author. I've read all three books in this series so far and loved them all. Both characters loved each other heaps and weren't afraid to show it.
This book also gave a behind the scenes view of being in a relationship with a serviceman. The uncertainty of your loved one returning is heartbreaking. It was also interesting to learn more about the life of a neonatal nurse.
Great family dynamics with lots of love and support shown.
The steam factor is high between Max and Payton and the author does it well.
Will definitely be reading more from this author.
January 27, 2017
Re read
Still liked it but it was a bit sow to start and then went totally OTT
Prior comments:
3.5 stars The sweetest book and story! Had to love Max and all he did for Payton.
Safety gang
Still liked it but it was a bit sow to start and then went totally OTT
Prior comments:
3.5 stars The sweetest book and story! Had to love Max and all he did for Payton.
Safety gang
October 4, 2015
I am sooo into this author! Loved this one. It's funny, action packed and has lots of hot sex scenes. Another great read!
August 16, 2021
OMG! I absolutely love this book. Vale does it again.
October 30, 2014
Another One Bites the Dust (Freebirds #3)
By: Lani Lynn Vale
5/5 stars
Payton Alvarez is a pint-sized firecracker and has captured the attention and attraction of Max. But due to a physical attack where she was severely beaten, she has problems being around men and trusting that they won’t hurt her. Once Max learns of her attack and of the PTSD that she is suffering from, he understands and backs off and just lets her know that when she is ready to pursue a relationship, he will be there waiting for her.
Max Tremaine is Ember’s brother and one of the men of Free. At the end of book 2, Highway Don’t Care, Max has been recalled into the military in order to conduct a time sensitive interrogation overseas. But right before this happened, Payton had decided that she was ready for more with Max and they spent a great time together.
But when Max is deployed, he earns himself a new enemy in the form of a vindictive CIA Agent and on his way home he is hurt & has temporary amnesia. Even though his mind doesn’t know Payton, his body remembers her.
Max & Payton have things to work through and they do so without much drama, other than some psycho who has it out for Max, and thus Payton is caught in the crossfire as well. This causes problems not only for their personal lives, but at their jobs as well.
We also learn about someone who has a connection to Sam through his estranged father. The situation that we learned of this is so sad, and we don’t learn much but at the end of the book he pulls off something that will ensure both Max and Payton’s safety.
I don’t think that there are any plans for Payton’s brother Bennett to get his own book, but if the author chose to write it, I would definitely read it.
There are 5 books in the Freebird series, one for each single man, Sam, Gabe, Max, Jack & James and I read through this entire series and learned that Elliott and his wife Blaine will be getting their own novella, currently untitled and no release date. But I’ll be reading it as well!
Reading Order:
1. Boomtown
2. Highway Don’t Care
3. Another One Bites the Dust
4. Last Day of My Life
5. Texas Tornado
6. Elliott and Blaine’s story
By: Lani Lynn Vale
5/5 stars
Payton Alvarez is a pint-sized firecracker and has captured the attention and attraction of Max. But due to a physical attack where she was severely beaten, she has problems being around men and trusting that they won’t hurt her. Once Max learns of her attack and of the PTSD that she is suffering from, he understands and backs off and just lets her know that when she is ready to pursue a relationship, he will be there waiting for her.
Max Tremaine is Ember’s brother and one of the men of Free. At the end of book 2, Highway Don’t Care, Max has been recalled into the military in order to conduct a time sensitive interrogation overseas. But right before this happened, Payton had decided that she was ready for more with Max and they spent a great time together.
But when Max is deployed, he earns himself a new enemy in the form of a vindictive CIA Agent and on his way home he is hurt & has temporary amnesia. Even though his mind doesn’t know Payton, his body remembers her.
Max & Payton have things to work through and they do so without much drama, other than some psycho who has it out for Max, and thus Payton is caught in the crossfire as well. This causes problems not only for their personal lives, but at their jobs as well.
We also learn about someone who has a connection to Sam through his estranged father. The situation that we learned of this is so sad, and we don’t learn much but at the end of the book he pulls off something that will ensure both Max and Payton’s safety.
I don’t think that there are any plans for Payton’s brother Bennett to get his own book, but if the author chose to write it, I would definitely read it.
There are 5 books in the Freebird series, one for each single man, Sam, Gabe, Max, Jack & James and I read through this entire series and learned that Elliott and his wife Blaine will be getting their own novella, currently untitled and no release date. But I’ll be reading it as well!
Reading Order:
1. Boomtown
2. Highway Don’t Care
3. Another One Bites the Dust
4. Last Day of My Life
5. Texas Tornado
6. Elliott and Blaine’s story
February 27, 2015
4.5 I want my very own Max stars.. okay maybe even Payton she was too cute - as a bff - or a little sister stars..
I am so HOOKED on these stories Ms. Vale has shared with us.. They're Fast paced, Funny as all hell, Super Hot on Sex scenes, we get Alpha~licious men everywhere you look and it's real - Well not plot and suspense wise real but characters and family times real..
There was one particular scene in I shit you not I was holding my side cause I laughed so hard then a few pages in we get Full on Steam... So with that said I'm on to the next..
I am so HOOKED on these stories Ms. Vale has shared with us.. They're Fast paced, Funny as all hell, Super Hot on Sex scenes, we get Alpha~licious men everywhere you look and it's real - Well not plot and suspense wise real but characters and family times real..
There was one particular scene in I shit you not I was holding my side cause I laughed so hard then a few pages in we get Full on Steam... So with that said I'm on to the next..
February 28, 2024
This was another awesome read in this ongoing series Payton was a riot she was firey, mouthy, loved fiercely, loved her witty banter, teased constantly had the biggest heart. The cast of characters are awesome. Max was sex on a stick, possessive, protective all alpha. This story was filled with ups and downs twists and turns, and was emotional, suspenseful, and even tragic. The stuff that this couple had to endure was mind-blowing.
Max and Payton made a beautiful couple their chemistry was hot and steamy. Payton was a bold one and looked forward to all her antics as she made us laugh out loud time and time again even found my husband dozing next to me laughing as well. Loved it from cover to cover listened to in audio and loved the narrators as well they are awesome. It's our goal to finish up several series of missing books from Mrs. Vale's series and we love the ride the characters are all so amazing in this series and others also love how the characters intermingle from several series time and time again.
Max and Payton made a beautiful couple their chemistry was hot and steamy. Payton was a bold one and looked forward to all her antics as she made us laugh out loud time and time again even found my husband dozing next to me laughing as well. Loved it from cover to cover listened to in audio and loved the narrators as well they are awesome. It's our goal to finish up several series of missing books from Mrs. Vale's series and we love the ride the characters are all so amazing in this series and others also love how the characters intermingle from several series time and time again.
January 9, 2014
FREEBIRDS THREE
The third book in this series features Max and Payton. I loved Max, Payton not so much, I found her aggressive tendencies and dialogue which mostly consisted of "one liners" a little irritating.
The story was good, and well detailed. Plenty happens,there's romance, drama and lots of sexual chemistry. Characters from the previous two books feature heavily as well. But I had hoped that after the reviews for the first two books commented about the editing, that the author would have addressed the issue. Apparently not! If anything it was even worse in this latest story. For instance the word they was constantly used when it should have been "the" we're instead of "where" in one dramatic scene the word trader was used instead of Traitor, which totally detracted from the drama. Payton has a dog which she calls to heal instead of "heel" all pretty basic stuff, which should have been picked up.
The third book in this series features Max and Payton. I loved Max, Payton not so much, I found her aggressive tendencies and dialogue which mostly consisted of "one liners" a little irritating.
The story was good, and well detailed. Plenty happens,there's romance, drama and lots of sexual chemistry. Characters from the previous two books feature heavily as well. But I had hoped that after the reviews for the first two books commented about the editing, that the author would have addressed the issue. Apparently not! If anything it was even worse in this latest story. For instance the word they was constantly used when it should have been "the" we're instead of "where" in one dramatic scene the word trader was used instead of Traitor, which totally detracted from the drama. Payton has a dog which she calls to heal instead of "heel" all pretty basic stuff, which should have been picked up.
August 6, 2014
Another One Bites the Dust is one of the funniest book I have read in a long time. The h, Payton, is a scream, completely insane. The H, Max, is a tough, lovable, protective, sexy military guy. The romance was quick, unconventional and so fun to watch. The wedding between Max and Payton made me laugh out loud. If I ever get married again I am using their wedding vows. My favorite character other than the H/h is Alpha the wonder dog. This is kind of a biker book but not really. The guys of Free ride motorcycles but they are not an MC. Thoroughly enjoyed this book
June 13, 2014
This has turned out to be a really great series I'm really enjoying it. These men are all ex-army rangers who are tough but have a heart of gold. They find battered woman and thier families get away from domestic abuse hense freebirds. These books are packed with action and still are sensual and so funny. This one even had some oral in it a plus in my book lol I can't wait to read the rest of the books in this series!!!
December 28, 2013
I just love this series. Each book gets better and better.
December 30, 2013
Really good story hated it to end.
May 9, 2016
Awesome as Always ... Getting better & better... LOVE IT..
March 28, 2025
• 11/03/15 (read)
• 25/07/22 (read)
• 26/03/24 (audio)
___________________________
Max Tremaine
Payton Alvarez
• 25/07/22 (read)
• 26/03/24 (audio)
___________________________
Max Tremaine
Payton Alvarez
July 13, 2019
Loved it!!
November 15, 2015
Like I say every time a review a book by this author... amazing just enough action,suspense and romance
I really enjoyed reading about Max and Payton
I really enjoyed reading about Max and Payton
April 19, 2023
"And another one gone, and another one gone. Another one bites the dust." -Queen & Max Tremaine (probably)
It's another day in Kilgore, Texas: a college town with way too much s#!t going down in it. We're back with Free, an auto/motorcycle repair shop that does custom work. But Free has a secret: They actually save abused women and help them escape to a better life. It's run by a group of ex-Army Ranges, who all served together. They all live in a compound like a bunch of weirdos, and they ain't got time to bleed...
Here we have Book Three of the Freebird Series, another kick-a$& romance from Lani Lynn Vale. I feel like Another One Bites the Dust and Highway Don't Care are about on par with each other quality and story wise, so if you liked one, you'll most likely enjoy the other. The book pales in comparison to some of LLV's later stuff, but it's still a really fun read. It is HIGHLY suggested that you read the first two books in the series: Boomtown and Highway Don't Care before this one. This book can technically be read as a standalone. You will enjoy it and be able to follow along just fine. However, the depth of what is going on just won't be the same, and the series has some underlying things going on throughout that you won't pick up on unless you read them in order.
Max Tremaine is a resident bada$& of Kilgore, a former Army Ranger, and a terrifying interrogator. He has had his eye on Payton, a cute little nurse who befriended Cheyenne--his bestie's wife--in school. She, however, has been hot and cold with him continually for months, and he's about done with her--until he finds out why. He ends up being her rock, and out of that becomes something more than just friendship. After a terrifying attack, Payton has been living a shell of a life until she saw Max. He sparked that desire in her again, but after being betrayed by her last man, is she willing to take that step with him?
Well, apparently yes. They have to go through all kinds of trials, including Max being recalled into the Army and them dealing with her terrible PTSD. Unfortunately, when Max comes back from overseas, he also brings back a problem, and it's a deadly one, one that wants to destroy Max and everything that he holds dear because...reasons. They battle all sorts of hairy situations along the way as well as a shocking surprise that puts their relationship to the test. Will they have their HEA? Heh. Well, if you are familiar with LLV, you probably already know, but I'll keep my lips zipped on that one. ;-)
Payton and Max are great for each other. The reader can see that Max really cares for her and does the sweetest things like: goes scooter shopping with her, even though he'd rather be ANYWHERE else, talks to her in the middle of the night to calm her down, buys her a service dog for PTSD when he leaves for the Army, and goes out in the middle of the night to get her burgers (okay, he did eat her burger; he brought that one on). Payton compliments him with her goofiness and bright personality. Max really comes out of his grump shell with her, and it's wonderful to see him happy, even if they go through some terrible things. If I use my d-bag meter, where 0 = absolute sweetheart and 10 = POS, Max would fall at about a 3. He's definitely a sweetheart, but he had some character issues as a flirt and a ladies' man in the beginning that he had to work out. Using the same scale for heroine obnoxiousness, where 0 = total awesome and 10 = completely obnoxious, Payton also falls at about a 3. She's got some flares of immaturity, especially with her younger brother (I will say, though, that I couldn't help but laugh at the fart scene). However, she's not super annoying, and the playfulness is dialed back to places that I, at least, though were fun and appropriate. She also had to go through a lot with the PTSD and that showed through as well. I thought that she was an interesting, multi-faceted character overall.
Another One Bites the Dust is another good addition to the series and is definitely a step up from the first book. There were a a few parts that dragged, and the main bad guy was a little off the wall. The suspense, however, was quite good. LLV does have some repetition issues in her writing as well, but nothing too serious. Besides, Payton and Max are such a great couple, and though the plot isn't quite as memorable as others, it's a very fun read. I highly recommend it.
Freebirds Series
-Review of Boomtown (Freebirds, #1)
-Review of Highway Don't Care (Freebirds, #2)
-Review of Another One Bites the Dust (Freebirds, #3)
-Review of Another One Bites the Dust (Freebirds, #4)
-Review of Texas Tornado (Freebirds, #5)
-Review of I Don't Dance (Freebirds, #5.5)
It's another day in Kilgore, Texas: a college town with way too much s#!t going down in it. We're back with Free, an auto/motorcycle repair shop that does custom work. But Free has a secret: They actually save abused women and help them escape to a better life. It's run by a group of ex-Army Ranges, who all served together. They all live in a compound like a bunch of weirdos, and they ain't got time to bleed...
Here we have Book Three of the Freebird Series, another kick-a$& romance from Lani Lynn Vale. I feel like Another One Bites the Dust and Highway Don't Care are about on par with each other quality and story wise, so if you liked one, you'll most likely enjoy the other. The book pales in comparison to some of LLV's later stuff, but it's still a really fun read. It is HIGHLY suggested that you read the first two books in the series: Boomtown and Highway Don't Care before this one. This book can technically be read as a standalone. You will enjoy it and be able to follow along just fine. However, the depth of what is going on just won't be the same, and the series has some underlying things going on throughout that you won't pick up on unless you read them in order.
Things to Know:
(See "Things to Know" (Spoiler Edition) for more tidbits like this to this book/other books.)
-Do You Need to Read Other Books? Technically no. You will be able to follow along just fine as it is a new couple, and everything is explained. However, it is highly recommended that you read as there are reoccurring issues that will come to light.
-Romance type: A very light enemies to lovers
Male Lead - Maximillian "Max" Tremaine
-"Perky Tits," Payton saw them talking at the beginning of the book and assumed something was going on. Also, Jenny, the nurse, who flirted with Max and wrote on his cast, but who of those are minor blips. Nothing that causes major drama.
The guys from Free: Elliott, Gabe, Jack, James, Sam, plus Dougie (deceased)
-From: Kilgore, Texas
-Jobs: Free Army Ranger team (injured in IED in Iraq); Free, Mechanic
-First Appearance: Boomtown
-Mother: Adeline Tremaine (died in plane crash)
-Father: Thurston Tremaine (died in plane crash)
-Sibling: Ember Tremaine
-Medical Issues: (See spoilers)
-Max has a secret singing voice.
Female Lead - Payton "Bubbles" "PP" Evangeline Alvarez
-OW? Ex-boyfriend: Rory Christenson, who left her while she was being attacked.
-Besties: Cheyenne Allen (went to nursing school together);Ember Tremaine
-From: Kilgore, Texas
-Job: Nurse
-First Appearance: Highway Don't Care (She was (on shift with Cheyenne where Ember was taken after the big college attack).
-Other Appearances: Highway Don't Care, Last Day of My Life, Texas Tornado, I Don't Dance, Lights To My Siren, Kevlar To My Vest, Keys to My Cuffs
-Other Appearances:
-Mother: Jessie Alvarez (from Jefferson)
-Father: Tony Alvarez, who is a career Marine, rank of Colonel
-Sibling: Bennett Alvarez (See spoilers for more on our Benny Bear)
-Pet: Alpha, German Shepherd Dog, black, trained protection dog. He is the great grandson of Apollo, who was a trained military working dog that served on the Free Army Ranger Team. He died due to a C4 explosion
-Medical Issues: She was attacked and beaten before the book started. She sustained three broken ribs, internal bleeding, broken left foot, sprained ankle, a broken hip, and concussion. There were months of rehab, and she ended up with PTSD.
-Payton has a Walker Texas Ranger tattoo on her, making her have one of THE BEST tattoos of any of LLV's ladies. ;-)
Free...the Maybe MC
-Free is not technically an offical "club." However, they do participate in different events throughout the LLVerse and have even been called an "unofficial club." Whatever they are, they are awesome.
-Members: Sam Mackenzie, Gabe Maldonado, Max Tremaine, Jack Stoker, James Allen, Elliott Masters
-Free helps women escape abusive situations on the down-low. It's super secret, though, and uses the men's military skills to help.
-All of the women the Freebirds help have their names changed to bird names (i.e. Lark, Robin).
Important Minor Characters
-Layne Corey is Max's old CO who called him out on assignment. Except in Boomtown, his name was Layne Cooper. Sigh. It's another name goof for LLV. Spreadsheets, lady.
-Luke Roberts continues to have small rolls in this series as an officer.
Max Tremaine is a resident bada$& of Kilgore, a former Army Ranger, and a terrifying interrogator. He has had his eye on Payton, a cute little nurse who befriended Cheyenne--his bestie's wife--in school. She, however, has been hot and cold with him continually for months, and he's about done with her--until he finds out why. He ends up being her rock, and out of that becomes something more than just friendship. After a terrifying attack, Payton has been living a shell of a life until she saw Max. He sparked that desire in her again, but after being betrayed by her last man, is she willing to take that step with him?
Well, apparently yes. They have to go through all kinds of trials, including Max being recalled into the Army and them dealing with her terrible PTSD. Unfortunately, when Max comes back from overseas, he also brings back a problem, and it's a deadly one, one that wants to destroy Max and everything that he holds dear because...reasons. They battle all sorts of hairy situations along the way as well as a shocking surprise that puts their relationship to the test. Will they have their HEA? Heh. Well, if you are familiar with LLV, you probably already know, but I'll keep my lips zipped on that one. ;-)
Payton and Max are great for each other. The reader can see that Max really cares for her and does the sweetest things like: goes scooter shopping with her, even though he'd rather be ANYWHERE else, talks to her in the middle of the night to calm her down, buys her a service dog for PTSD when he leaves for the Army, and goes out in the middle of the night to get her burgers (okay, he did eat her burger; he brought that one on). Payton compliments him with her goofiness and bright personality. Max really comes out of his grump shell with her, and it's wonderful to see him happy, even if they go through some terrible things. If I use my d-bag meter, where 0 = absolute sweetheart and 10 = POS, Max would fall at about a 3. He's definitely a sweetheart, but he had some character issues as a flirt and a ladies' man in the beginning that he had to work out. Using the same scale for heroine obnoxiousness, where 0 = total awesome and 10 = completely obnoxious, Payton also falls at about a 3. She's got some flares of immaturity, especially with her younger brother (I will say, though, that I couldn't help but laugh at the fart scene). However, she's not super annoying, and the playfulness is dialed back to places that I, at least, though were fun and appropriate. She also had to go through a lot with the PTSD and that showed through as well. I thought that she was an interesting, multi-faceted character overall.
Another One Bites the Dust is another good addition to the series and is definitely a step up from the first book. There were a a few parts that dragged, and the main bad guy was a little off the wall. The suspense, however, was quite good. LLV does have some repetition issues in her writing as well, but nothing too serious. Besides, Payton and Max are such a great couple, and though the plot isn't quite as memorable as others, it's a very fun read. I highly recommend it.
Audiobook Note:
-This book is read by Mason Lloyd and Stephanie Rose, both of whom are amazing.
-Mason has a bit of a southern twang going on and has read many of LLV's audiobooks, including this series, most in the Heroes of the Dixie Wardens, The Dixie Warden Rejects, the Uncertain Saints MC Series, most of the Code 11-KPD SWAT Series, the Hail Raisers Series, the the I Like Big Dragons Series (one of the completely standalone series I was talking about), and the There's No Crying in Baseball Series.
-Stephanie has read this series and then has been here and there in many books, including ones like Put Out, Kitty Kitty, Joke's on You, Ain't Doin' It, and Center Mass...Plus, many, many others that are so all over the place in LLV's series that I'm not going to list them.
-The production, as always, was wonderfully done, and I highly recommend the audiobook.
Freebirds Series
-Review of Boomtown (Freebirds, #1)
-Review of Highway Don't Care (Freebirds, #2)
-Review of Another One Bites the Dust (Freebirds, #3)
-Review of Another One Bites the Dust (Freebirds, #4)
-Review of Texas Tornado (Freebirds, #5)
-Review of I Don't Dance (Freebirds, #5.5)
October 19, 2019
I enjoyed this book a great deal. I've come to know Max over the course of the other books, so I absolutely loved him.
I liked Payton, but I didn't get to experience her life the same way I did Max through Ember and Cheyenne's stories. Payton may have been mentioned, but Max was an active part of the other characters lives.
My main reason for not giving this 5 stars is because their seemed to be a lot of tell, but no show. I would have liked to be able to feel what Payton went through during and after her attack, I would have like to really feel that I experienced Max and Payton falling in love. Instead I was told about the attack, but the only connection to that was her method of locking her door or being afraid to go in the house while she was alone. It was mentioned that she didn't like to be around groups of men, but I didn't get the chance to feel her anxiety in those situations. As far as seeing them fall in love, that went from the back and forth to BAM! now we love each other.
All that aside, I enjoyed the chemistry they had, the since of brotherhood and friendship that these men have, and trying to figure out what the villain had in store for them next.
I am looking forward to finding out more about the other men that are a part of this group.
I liked Payton, but I didn't get to experience her life the same way I did Max through Ember and Cheyenne's stories. Payton may have been mentioned, but Max was an active part of the other characters lives.
My main reason for not giving this 5 stars is because their seemed to be a lot of tell, but no show. I would have liked to be able to feel what Payton went through during and after her attack, I would have like to really feel that I experienced Max and Payton falling in love. Instead I was told about the attack, but the only connection to that was her method of locking her door or being afraid to go in the house while she was alone. It was mentioned that she didn't like to be around groups of men, but I didn't get the chance to feel her anxiety in those situations. As far as seeing them fall in love, that went from the back and forth to BAM! now we love each other.
All that aside, I enjoyed the chemistry they had, the since of brotherhood and friendship that these men have, and trying to figure out what the villain had in store for them next.
I am looking forward to finding out more about the other men that are a part of this group.
September 9, 2020
Another One Bites the Dust
Freebirds, Book 3
I Picked Up This Book Because: Continue the amazing series.
The Characters:
Payton Alvarez:
Max Tremaine
The Story:
Hanging out with these guys causes a girl to be in a lot of danger. Max and Payton are a great couple. They have very few real arguments and a ton of chemistry. I dig their somewhat immature vibe.
The Random Thoughts:
I’m pretty sure the water on the compound is spiked with fertility drugs.
4 Stars
Freebirds, Book 3
I Picked Up This Book Because: Continue the amazing series.
The Characters:
Payton Alvarez:
Max Tremaine
The Story:
Hanging out with these guys causes a girl to be in a lot of danger. Max and Payton are a great couple. They have very few real arguments and a ton of chemistry. I dig their somewhat immature vibe.
The Random Thoughts:
I’m pretty sure the water on the compound is spiked with fertility drugs.
4 Stars
November 12, 2019
I am so happy that this series is now in Audible . I am loving the audio books so far. Mason Lloyd is awesome, I don't think I can listen or read a Lani book without imagining his voice.
When you start this book it seems like Max and Peyton hated each other, but the more you read the more you realize its just a matter of getting them together to admit how they feel.
Loved it from the start to the end. Lots of drama and action and a mad women targeting Max who you didn't quite understand why until the very last page.
Can't wait for the next one
When you start this book it seems like Max and Peyton hated each other, but the more you read the more you realize its just a matter of getting them together to admit how they feel.
Loved it from the start to the end. Lots of drama and action and a mad women targeting Max who you didn't quite understand why until the very last page.
Can't wait for the next one
September 30, 2019
Overall rating: stars
Genre: Alpha Badass Romance
Plot: 7/10
Ending: 8/10
Writing: 9/10
Enjoyment: 8/10
Hero: 8/10
Heroine: 9/10
Supporting Characters: 9/10
Humour: Yes
Sex: Yes
Feels: Yes
HEA:
Genre: Alpha Badass Romance
Plot: 7/10
Ending: 8/10
Writing: 9/10
Enjoyment: 8/10
Hero: 8/10
Heroine: 9/10
Supporting Characters: 9/10
Humour: Yes
Sex: Yes
Feels: Yes
HEA:
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