What do you think?
Rate this book
Top Shelf #1
Bastards & Whiskey
I sit amongst the Presidents, Royalty, the Captains of Industry, and the wealthiest fucks in the world.
We own Spiked Roses—an exclusive, membership only establishment in New Orleans where money or lineage is the only way in. It is for the gentlemen who own everything and never hear the word no.
Sipping on whiskey, smoking cigars, and conducting multi-million dollar deals in our own personal playground of indulgence, there isn’t anything I can’t have… and that includes HER. I can also have HER if I want.
And I want.
We own Spiked Roses—an exclusive, membership only establishment in New Orleans where money or lineage is the only way in. It is for the gentlemen who own everything and never hear the word no.
Sipping on whiskey, smoking cigars, and conducting multi-million dollar deals in our own personal playground of indulgence, there isn’t anything I can’t have… and that includes HER. I can also have HER if I want.
And I want.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 15, 2017
2006 people are currently reading
2622 people want to read
About the author
Alta Hensley
117 books2,447 followersAlta Hensley is a NYT & USA Today bestselling author of dark romance where the villain always gets the happily ever after.
Twisted, clever, and occasionally unhinged, her books deliver morally gray anti-heroes, sharp-tongued heroines, and happily ever afters that taste even sweeter after a little ruin. With a signature blend of grit, wit, and heat, Alta’s stories prove one thing: Villains deserve love too.
Alta lives on the foggy coast of Oregon with her husband, two daughters, and a pair of dogs who think they’re in charge. When she’s not writing redemption for the irredeemable, she’s walking the coastline or sipping craft beer in eccentric little bars that feel like they belong in her books.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltaHensleyA...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Alta-Hensley/e...
Website: www.altahensley.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/altahensley
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alta-...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altahensley
Join her mailing list: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Twisted, clever, and occasionally unhinged, her books deliver morally gray anti-heroes, sharp-tongued heroines, and happily ever afters that taste even sweeter after a little ruin. With a signature blend of grit, wit, and heat, Alta’s stories prove one thing: Villains deserve love too.
Alta lives on the foggy coast of Oregon with her husband, two daughters, and a pair of dogs who think they’re in charge. When she’s not writing redemption for the irredeemable, she’s walking the coastline or sipping craft beer in eccentric little bars that feel like they belong in her books.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltaHensleyA...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Alta-Hensley/e...
Website: www.altahensley.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/altahensley
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alta-...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altahensley
Join her mailing list: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 400 reviews
September 13, 2017
I adore the cover of this one. A fabulous representation of the story. Great use of graphics. Excellent composition and eye-catching title work. A fantastic cover for an excellent book.
Sometimes when I finish a book all I really want to write is "I LOVED IT" or "IT WAS REALLY GOOD" and leave it at that. Alas, since I was graciously given an advance copy I will try to put into words how utterly enjoyable I found this one to be...This book pretty much checked every mark for me. It was well written and well paced. I adored the setting and plot. Not just for this book but the potential for future books in the series is wide open. A bunch of rich assholes owning a gentlemen's club where money can pretty much buy you anything. We are talking CEOs, Princes, Mafia members, Assassins, and more. I was intrigued by SO many of these guys and their kinks. I'd like to request a book for every single one. I'd also like to see more about the few female side characters and of course Tennessee.
The blurb makes this one sound a bit like it would be an Intsa-love book and in a way it is, and it isn't. I would say it was more of intrigued at first sight than anything. There is a lot of push/pull with the hero pretty much right until the end when he does an about face that was a TINY bit too whiplash for me to buy into. I wouldn't say this had any OW/OM drama in the traditional sense, but it wouldn't fall into the "safe" category either. The sex scenes were hot and relatively plentiful.
Both main characters were pretty likable. The hero is a huge asshole, and I seriously wanted to throttle him on more than one occasion. But that is kind of who these guys are. Rich, arrogant dicks who no one ever says NO to. By the finish of the book, I ended up liking Kenneth even more than I did the heroine. Anita was a bit of a mixed bag for me. At the beginning I liked her. She was strong and feisty with a heart of gold. Then she made an (IMO) too stupid to live decision and turned into a bit of a bratty idiot. Nevertheless, by the end, she owned up to her mistakes and took the blame for her bad decision. So that placed her was back in my good graces.
Lastly, this was all wrapped up in a pretty decent ending. I assume since there are more books planned that we will see how this couple is doing in those. Apparently, I had much more to say than I anticipated. *lol* In any case, this one gets two HUGE thumbs up from yours truly. Now I try and wait
February 8, 2019
1.5 It's not you, it's me
this gif might be too much but I couldn't help myself
Ok, so I understand a lot of things and I'm pretty tolerant but this book was just annoying!
Don't get me wrong, I try not to judge sexual stuff (), but everything felt like it was a tad too much, like the author was trying too hard (and well, it didn't really work out for her).
The chick seemed ok at first then she became an annoying little brat and it kind of went downhill from there. I'm just not a big fan of drama.
Why 2 stars (not less)? Well, for some reason I did stick till the end (skipping half a book still counts as finishing, if you get to the ending, ok?!). And, I hate to admit, I've read worse.
this gif might be too much but I couldn't help myself
Ok, so I understand a lot of things and I'm pretty tolerant but this book was just annoying!
Don't get me wrong, I try not to judge sexual stuff (), but everything felt like it was a tad too much, like the author was trying too hard (and well, it didn't really work out for her).
The chick seemed ok at first then she became an annoying little brat and it kind of went downhill from there. I'm just not a big fan of drama.
Why 2 stars (not less)? Well, for some reason I did stick till the end (skipping half a book still counts as finishing, if you get to the ending, ok?!). And, I hate to admit, I've read worse.
July 10, 2022
Kenneth and Anita - you kinda let me down.
I enjoyed the story very much, but I didn't feel a connection between the two MCs. Their encounters were hot and filthy, but I wasn't feelin' the love between. Mostly just the physical.
Kenneth, along with a group of other men owned a Gentleman's only club in New Orleans. This place caters to the most depraved acts one could conjure in their dark minds. I mean, it went way beyond whips and chains. If you can think it up, they can deliver a willing victim.
Anita wanting a change leaves the state of Nevada in search of some color in her life. Currently, it only decorates her skin. A friend guides her to a woman who mentions a club called Spiked Roses would be needing a couple new hires. Not knowing any different, Anita finds herself there, applying and getting the job.
Everything has to be okayed with a signature on the dotted line. You know what you signed up for. No take backs. After the length of the contract the money is well earned. Except, Anita only wanting to help a friend in need has signed up for more than she ever bargained for. This man is sadistic and cruel. Not loving at all. She will do everything in her power to end this prior to the 2 weeks.
Kenneth sweeps in, but he isn't her savior. He isn't as cruel as the person who bought her for 2 weeks, but he still has dark desires. Now, her body craves his touches... but he shouldn't be touching her because her body is contracted to someone else. Rules and club be damned... it feels too good to stop.
I'm not sure I'll be continuing with the series. Maybe, someday.
I enjoyed the story very much, but I didn't feel a connection between the two MCs. Their encounters were hot and filthy, but I wasn't feelin' the love between. Mostly just the physical.
Kenneth, along with a group of other men owned a Gentleman's only club in New Orleans. This place caters to the most depraved acts one could conjure in their dark minds. I mean, it went way beyond whips and chains. If you can think it up, they can deliver a willing victim.
Anita wanting a change leaves the state of Nevada in search of some color in her life. Currently, it only decorates her skin. A friend guides her to a woman who mentions a club called Spiked Roses would be needing a couple new hires. Not knowing any different, Anita finds herself there, applying and getting the job.
Everything has to be okayed with a signature on the dotted line. You know what you signed up for. No take backs. After the length of the contract the money is well earned. Except, Anita only wanting to help a friend in need has signed up for more than she ever bargained for. This man is sadistic and cruel. Not loving at all. She will do everything in her power to end this prior to the 2 weeks.
Kenneth sweeps in, but he isn't her savior. He isn't as cruel as the person who bought her for 2 weeks, but he still has dark desires. Now, her body craves his touches... but he shouldn't be touching her because her body is contracted to someone else. Rules and club be damned... it feels too good to stop.
I'm not sure I'll be continuing with the series. Maybe, someday.
September 13, 2017
A pleasure club owned by billionaires -Kenneth Saxon, Harley Crow, Victor Drayton, Mathew Price , Lennon Wolf & Prince Roman Cassian
We owned Spiked Roses—an exclusive, membership only establishment in New Orleans.Sipping on top shelf booze, smoking exotic cigars, and conducting multi-million dollar deals in our own personal playground of indulgence, there wasn’t anything we couldn’t have
There's debauchery and sexual fetishes coming to life . Kinks are as easily accepted as Rare old whiskey . The girls are in for the money, the guys are in for dark rough , no holds barred sex.
You were all nothing but a room full of bastards and whiskey.”
“But at the same time, we were nothing but a room full of harlots and diamonds. So who’s to judge?”
The men and women are in contractual sex relationships. Each person aware of exactly what goes on in the Humidifier Room, Cigar Room & Tasting Room . It's spelled out clearly , precisely , well in advance
In this meleè comes a naive Anita . She lives a drab life in an abandoned trailer in the middle of nowhere .
Muckaluk .A mile marker in Humboldt County near Coal Canyon. This was my home. This was my hell. Dust devils and sagebrush.
Her life a colorless canvas and boring tumbleweed infested. In the smack middle of rest landscape , she's as colorless and joyless as the arid wasteland . Looking for the elusive Rattlesnake to bite her to feel herself alive, besides looking after her old neighbour Virgie. She pushes Anita to go to New Orleans to change her life. Just live for once. Fly , even if she crashes later.
That's how Anita ends up sitting in front of Kenneth. Her life takes some really dramatic turns and she has to run...far far away. But Kenneth is nothing but persistent. Worried about the scarred reputation of his club -Spiked Rose , he has the unenviable task to locate Anita and lasso her ass back to the club.
What follows is a series of tides that pull and push these hearts and souls together and apart.
It's an interesting story taht started out really well, written well and oozing sexiness.
Somewhere in the middle , it sagged a bit, but picks up later.
Just my take, for a man in control and Dominant attitude, Kenneth unravelled pretty quickly and did a turnabout .
Good sex with some kinks thrown in .
4 kitty tail stars
#BookBistroBlogApproved
Follow us on
FB - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB...
Blog -https://bookbistroblogcom.wordpress.com
Blog -https://bookbistroblogger.blogspot.com
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/BookBistro
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/BookBistroBlog
We owned Spiked Roses—an exclusive, membership only establishment in New Orleans.Sipping on top shelf booze, smoking exotic cigars, and conducting multi-million dollar deals in our own personal playground of indulgence, there wasn’t anything we couldn’t have
There's debauchery and sexual fetishes coming to life . Kinks are as easily accepted as Rare old whiskey . The girls are in for the money, the guys are in for dark rough , no holds barred sex.
You were all nothing but a room full of bastards and whiskey.”
“But at the same time, we were nothing but a room full of harlots and diamonds. So who’s to judge?”
The men and women are in contractual sex relationships. Each person aware of exactly what goes on in the Humidifier Room, Cigar Room & Tasting Room . It's spelled out clearly , precisely , well in advance
In this meleè comes a naive Anita . She lives a drab life in an abandoned trailer in the middle of nowhere .
Muckaluk .A mile marker in Humboldt County near Coal Canyon. This was my home. This was my hell. Dust devils and sagebrush.
Her life a colorless canvas and boring tumbleweed infested. In the smack middle of rest landscape , she's as colorless and joyless as the arid wasteland . Looking for the elusive Rattlesnake to bite her to feel herself alive, besides looking after her old neighbour Virgie. She pushes Anita to go to New Orleans to change her life. Just live for once. Fly , even if she crashes later.
That's how Anita ends up sitting in front of Kenneth. Her life takes some really dramatic turns and she has to run...far far away. But Kenneth is nothing but persistent. Worried about the scarred reputation of his club -Spiked Rose , he has the unenviable task to locate Anita and lasso her ass back to the club.
What follows is a series of tides that pull and push these hearts and souls together and apart.
It's an interesting story taht started out really well, written well and oozing sexiness.
Somewhere in the middle , it sagged a bit, but picks up later.
Just my take, for a man in control and Dominant attitude, Kenneth unravelled pretty quickly and did a turnabout .
Good sex with some kinks thrown in .
4 kitty tail stars
#BookBistroBlogApproved
Follow us on
FB - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB...
Blog -https://bookbistroblogcom.wordpress.com
Blog -https://bookbistroblogger.blogspot.com
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/BookBistro
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/BookBistroBlog
January 18, 2020
This book is a little bit disconcerting but it is downright dirty. The story concept was of Spiked Roses, a private men's club owned by 7 men. It was an obnoxiously rich men club where they go to satisfy their needs, i.e. peculiar sexual needs. All was going well until laws got involved.
Kennet Saxon, a wealthy attorny, one of the co-owner of Spiked Roses and hero, suggests making new rules and contracts for the members and the women working there. A member buys the woman but he must sign the contract as a result proving both of them as consenting adults in consensual act.
Anita Kyle, the heroine, is a broke girl, having a hard life growing up. She started working at 15 as a caretaker and housekeeper for Virgie Peterson. Virgie is an old lady, who is a kind woman with so much purposely-neglecting-ownself needs to life. She pushes Anita to leave for New Orleans and make a life there since prior, to once a young Virgie, had a happy life there hoping for Anita to have the same fun and exciting life there. After Anita finally agrees, leaves and arrives at New Orleans, there after settling she gets an interview through Marlowe and gets hired there.
Anita and Kennet meets at Spiked Roses. Kennet is curious and attracted to Anita. When Anita agrees into a contract with a member Kennet realises his want for her. The sex scenes were dirty and with wild steam. Kind of a little off-putting too if you have to read too much swats on ass.
As the author said in her intro -
*BASTARDS & WHISKEY is a dark billionaire romance. If you don’t like a sprinkle of shock, a dash of taboo, and a heavy dose of sex, then don’t take a sip of this TOP SHELF cocktail.
Not my best read but I'm curious enough to read the next book of the series.
Kennet Saxon, a wealthy attorny, one of the co-owner of Spiked Roses and hero, suggests making new rules and contracts for the members and the women working there. A member buys the woman but he must sign the contract as a result proving both of them as consenting adults in consensual act.
Anita Kyle, the heroine, is a broke girl, having a hard life growing up. She started working at 15 as a caretaker and housekeeper for Virgie Peterson. Virgie is an old lady, who is a kind woman with so much purposely-neglecting-ownself needs to life. She pushes Anita to leave for New Orleans and make a life there since prior, to once a young Virgie, had a happy life there hoping for Anita to have the same fun and exciting life there. After Anita finally agrees, leaves and arrives at New Orleans, there after settling she gets an interview through Marlowe and gets hired there.
Anita and Kennet meets at Spiked Roses. Kennet is curious and attracted to Anita. When Anita agrees into a contract with a member Kennet realises his want for her. The sex scenes were dirty and with wild steam. Kind of a little off-putting too if you have to read too much swats on ass.
As the author said in her intro -
*BASTARDS & WHISKEY is a dark billionaire romance. If you don’t like a sprinkle of shock, a dash of taboo, and a heavy dose of sex, then don’t take a sip of this TOP SHELF cocktail.
Not my best read but I'm curious enough to read the next book of the series.
May 10, 2021
Men who drink hard liquor and buy harder women to do submit to their every wicked perverted desire can be attractive in their amoral power. It is good to be a rich man who can buy anything they want. Kenneth and his circle of powerful friends live a life in excess. They created Spiked Roses to cater to their every sexual whim. Spiked Roses is a decadent brothel that is an HR's nightmare. There are rules to prevent abuse. This flies in the face of what the rich men want. They want no holds bar sex any way the want it and when they want it. The problem is, even rich men get tired paying for something they didn't full receive. Specifically, women who work in the brothel are suing the men for abuse. In fact, some of the women are playing the game to get millions. Rich men may have money to burn, but taking from them pushes them over the edge. Specifically, Kenneth, the leader of this group is tired of having his money taken. He cleans house and this is when the story gets good.
Kenneth re-orgs Spiked Roses and it is a brothel to be reckon with. Personally, I really like what he did and I kind of wish I was part of running it. Pretty exciting what he implemented and how it was done. This kind of management is a turn on for me. Basically, it all revolves around consent and informed choices. Each worker is transparent with their desires and Spiked Roses matches it. This is where Anita comes in. Anita is a character with a death wish. An adrenaline junkie, she leaves the middle of nowhere to come to New Orleans and find a life. Funded by her only friend, Virgie, she easily finds a job as a bartender/waitress in Spiked Roses.
I liked Anita at first. She is straight forward and lives in the moment. She seems a perfect fit for this exclusive men's club. She also catches Kenneth's attention which is understandable. So where did this all go wrong? Somehow, the plot takes a sharp right turn. A sexy erotic story with some possibly decadent BDSM goes sideways. Anita turns from a straight shooter to just another gold digger regardless of her reasons. She goes in eyes wide shut into a situation she should not enter into, even after having been warn. Then she not only reneges on her deal, she places Kenneth in a very difficult situation.
This is my WTF moment. Anita goes from an edging woman on a self discovery journey into a whiny self deluded oath breaker. What a disappointment. From that point on, I wrote this immature child off and hoped Kenneth would leave her sorry butt in the dust. But no, Kenneth has to decide this moment in time to become the white knight saving a damsel in distress. A damsel who created her own world of hell with intention. This is why my rating is only 3 stars. The set up is incredible. The characters were intriguing at the onset. The world created is nicely done. The conflict worked, but Anita's character de-evolves into an unworthy match for Kenneth.
I am intrigued with this world. Spiked Roses club is alluring. The other dangerous men are captivating. I hope to learn their story and what woman becomes their downfall. The specific man I'm interested in is, Harley Crow. Assassins who are smart and rich with kinky bents are a drug for me. This erotic novel is a start to a promising series and recommended to kinky readers who love their anti-heroes.
* I voluntarily reviewed this arc
Kenneth re-orgs Spiked Roses and it is a brothel to be reckon with. Personally, I really like what he did and I kind of wish I was part of running it. Pretty exciting what he implemented and how it was done. This kind of management is a turn on for me. Basically, it all revolves around consent and informed choices. Each worker is transparent with their desires and Spiked Roses matches it. This is where Anita comes in. Anita is a character with a death wish. An adrenaline junkie, she leaves the middle of nowhere to come to New Orleans and find a life. Funded by her only friend, Virgie, she easily finds a job as a bartender/waitress in Spiked Roses.
I liked Anita at first. She is straight forward and lives in the moment. She seems a perfect fit for this exclusive men's club. She also catches Kenneth's attention which is understandable. So where did this all go wrong? Somehow, the plot takes a sharp right turn. A sexy erotic story with some possibly decadent BDSM goes sideways. Anita turns from a straight shooter to just another gold digger regardless of her reasons. She goes in eyes wide shut into a situation she should not enter into, even after having been warn. Then she not only reneges on her deal, she places Kenneth in a very difficult situation.
This is my WTF moment. Anita goes from an edging woman on a self discovery journey into a whiny self deluded oath breaker. What a disappointment. From that point on, I wrote this immature child off and hoped Kenneth would leave her sorry butt in the dust. But no, Kenneth has to decide this moment in time to become the white knight saving a damsel in distress. A damsel who created her own world of hell with intention. This is why my rating is only 3 stars. The set up is incredible. The characters were intriguing at the onset. The world created is nicely done. The conflict worked, but Anita's character de-evolves into an unworthy match for Kenneth.
I am intrigued with this world. Spiked Roses club is alluring. The other dangerous men are captivating. I hope to learn their story and what woman becomes their downfall. The specific man I'm interested in is, Harley Crow. Assassins who are smart and rich with kinky bents are a drug for me. This erotic novel is a start to a promising series and recommended to kinky readers who love their anti-heroes.
* I voluntarily reviewed this arc
February 29, 2024
DNF at 50% and I'm shocked I lasted this long.
Super abbreviated recap. Anita leaves her mile marker town and heads to New Orleans for a new adventure. She ends up getting a job at a sex club owned by Kenneth and a bunch of other rich criminals. Kenny boy is a lawyer but there are also assassins and other depraved men who are owners. This club is where all sorts of criminals can come and f*ck women in brutal waves, including beating them and pissing on them. There was nothing remotely appealing about this sex club.
I thought it was really slow and boring and nobody had even had sex at the 50% mark except for Anita getting assaulted by the guy who bought her and him peeing on her.
If it's your cup of tea - best wishes with it.
Super abbreviated recap. Anita leaves her mile marker town and heads to New Orleans for a new adventure. She ends up getting a job at a sex club owned by Kenneth and a bunch of other rich criminals. Kenny boy is a lawyer but there are also assassins and other depraved men who are owners. This club is where all sorts of criminals can come and f*ck women in brutal waves, including beating them and pissing on them. There was nothing remotely appealing about this sex club.
I thought it was really slow and boring and nobody had even had sex at the 50% mark except for Anita getting assaulted by the guy who bought her and him peeing on her.
If it's your cup of tea - best wishes with it.
October 6, 2017
Bastards & Whiskey. Harlots & Diamonds.
Overall I really enjoyed this read. It is very entertaining and held my interest all the way throughout the book. I had to push past the first chapter as all of the billionaires were entitled, depraved and just pains in the neck. The Hero of this book Kenneth held my interest the most so I prevailed and am really glad that I did continue.
Six billionaires have gotten together and created gentlemen’s club Spiked Roses where each desire and kink can be filled. Doll play, pet play, and experiencing a golden shower in the Tasting Room. Where no one will say no. Due to past issues they are to clean house so that there reputation is once again “squeaky clean”
New staff are required.
Anita has lived in the middle of nowhere. A life filled with grey. Moving to New Orleans life is perking up especially when she gets a job at Spiked Roses. I really liked her until she became an idiot and was too greedy and didn’t realise what she was getting herself in to. Then my sympathy for her went downhill. I mean what does she expect? Roses and rainbows and fairy dust. Not that type of world.
Yo, numbnut you signed the contract and then act like a petulant child, throwing a hissy fit. You were warned by several people on numerous accounts. Nuff said really.
At least with Kenneth you know what you were going to get. He can be cruel and he is entitled and selfish and likes to play mind games. He is an arse and oversteps to being a monster but he catches himself and does the right thing. You see the difference and I like him.
The sex scenes were hot and steamy and added to the book and the chemistry between these two was off the charts. I found this to be unique and would recommend to anyone who is interested in kink. I will continue the series although I’m not sure about all the doll play. Different strokes and all that.
Overall I really enjoyed this read. It is very entertaining and held my interest all the way throughout the book. I had to push past the first chapter as all of the billionaires were entitled, depraved and just pains in the neck. The Hero of this book Kenneth held my interest the most so I prevailed and am really glad that I did continue.
Six billionaires have gotten together and created gentlemen’s club Spiked Roses where each desire and kink can be filled. Doll play, pet play, and experiencing a golden shower in the Tasting Room. Where no one will say no. Due to past issues they are to clean house so that there reputation is once again “squeaky clean”
New staff are required.
Anita has lived in the middle of nowhere. A life filled with grey. Moving to New Orleans life is perking up especially when she gets a job at Spiked Roses. I really liked her until she became an idiot and was too greedy and didn’t realise what she was getting herself in to. Then my sympathy for her went downhill. I mean what does she expect? Roses and rainbows and fairy dust. Not that type of world.
Yo, numbnut you signed the contract and then act like a petulant child, throwing a hissy fit. You were warned by several people on numerous accounts. Nuff said really.
At least with Kenneth you know what you were going to get. He can be cruel and he is entitled and selfish and likes to play mind games. He is an arse and oversteps to being a monster but he catches himself and does the right thing. You see the difference and I like him.
The sex scenes were hot and steamy and added to the book and the chemistry between these two was off the charts. I found this to be unique and would recommend to anyone who is interested in kink. I will continue the series although I’m not sure about all the doll play. Different strokes and all that.
September 14, 2017
Bastards & Whiskey (TOP SHELF #1)
By: Alta Hensley
4 Stars
After reading a shortened version of this story in the Royally Mine Anthology, I was so glad to hear that Alta Hensley would be giving us more. This is the first book of getting more and what a hot book it was!!
Spiked Roses is a member only men’s club. A place for rich men to go to where they can have anything and everything. The word NO does not exist. After Spiked Roses has had a bad run on law suits, things must change.
Contracts are the first up for change. Each and every member must sign a contract if they wish to purchase a lady. Not that they will ever stand up in a lawsuit, they are there just to prove that the contract is between two consenting adults.
The sexy scenes that Alta has brought to us in this book is what I’ve come to appreciate in Alta’s writing. She constantly comes up with scenes that push everyone’s limits. With those limits, we all are screaming the safe word in our head…. but the characters in the book, they go with the flow.
Great job Alta!!! I Can’t wait to read Villains & Vodka and Scoundrels & Scotch.
Follow us on:
FB – https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB...
Blog -https://bookbistroblogcom.wordpress.com
Blog -https://bookbistroblogger.blogspot.com
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/BookBistro
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/BookBistroBlog
By: Alta Hensley
4 Stars
After reading a shortened version of this story in the Royally Mine Anthology, I was so glad to hear that Alta Hensley would be giving us more. This is the first book of getting more and what a hot book it was!!
Spiked Roses is a member only men’s club. A place for rich men to go to where they can have anything and everything. The word NO does not exist. After Spiked Roses has had a bad run on law suits, things must change.
Contracts are the first up for change. Each and every member must sign a contract if they wish to purchase a lady. Not that they will ever stand up in a lawsuit, they are there just to prove that the contract is between two consenting adults.
The sexy scenes that Alta has brought to us in this book is what I’ve come to appreciate in Alta’s writing. She constantly comes up with scenes that push everyone’s limits. With those limits, we all are screaming the safe word in our head…. but the characters in the book, they go with the flow.
Great job Alta!!! I Can’t wait to read Villains & Vodka and Scoundrels & Scotch.
Follow us on:
FB – https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB...
Blog -https://bookbistroblogcom.wordpress.com
Blog -https://bookbistroblogger.blogspot.com
Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/BookBistro
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/BookBistroBlog
August 26, 2018
3.5 “I fucking love the way you hate” stars!
September 24, 2017
Bastards & Whiskey (TOP SHELF #1)—this was a novella in the Royally Mine Anthology and was expanded. Spiked Roses is a member only men’s club. Kenneth is a kinky, filthy, super rich & successful lawyer for the exclusive men’s club called Spiked Roses. Anita is the very innocent and very sweet, and naive girl who's just been hired there. When these two get together, its like dynamite and electric heat rolled into one. He’s all ALPHA and she submits. He makes her feel things she has never ever felt before. She makes him want to do things he has never done before. Match made in heaven, right? I enjoyed the sparks they had and the smuttiness was right up my ally plus there was such action going on. I loved the plot and cant wait to read the next book in this series. This was an awesome book in a great new series.
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
June 29, 2018
Trigger warnings: dubious consent, non-consensual sex acts, suicidal ideation
I wanted to like this one. The basis of the storyline is fantastic and I loved the club. However, what could have been a great BDSM story turned into a detrimental representation of the community and a juvenile attempt to use "taboo" sex acts for no other reason than to shock readers. In an attempt to prove how "alpha" the male MC is, the author veers dangerously close to incel territory and gives her MC the attitude that perpetuates rape culture. Despite her protests to the contrary, he can just tell she wants it and she says no even though she means yes. That's rape. With a strong editor this author has potential, but this certainly missed the mark for me.
I wanted to like this one. The basis of the storyline is fantastic and I loved the club. However, what could have been a great BDSM story turned into a detrimental representation of the community and a juvenile attempt to use "taboo" sex acts for no other reason than to shock readers. In an attempt to prove how "alpha" the male MC is, the author veers dangerously close to incel territory and gives her MC the attitude that perpetuates rape culture. Despite her protests to the contrary, he can just tell she wants it and she says no even though she means yes. That's rape. With a strong editor this author has potential, but this certainly missed the mark for me.
September 26, 2018
My first read from this author. But I always give new-to-me authors another chance. Like they say, no two readers read the same book. Or something like that.
This one lacked any kind of emotional response in me. I usually love fast-paced reads, but this one didn't hit the mark. I'm kinda sad because this could've been a solid 4 or 5 star read. I loved the idea with the club and even the special nights... Anti-heroes are my jam! The only character I loved was Tennessee. Girl, write his book, please. Anyway, solid plot, execution not so much. Maybe Harley will lift my spirits, I want to read his book.
This one lacked any kind of emotional response in me. I usually love fast-paced reads, but this one didn't hit the mark. I'm kinda sad because this could've been a solid 4 or 5 star read. I loved the idea with the club and even the special nights... Anti-heroes are my jam! The only character I loved was Tennessee. Girl, write his book, please. Anyway, solid plot, execution not so much. Maybe Harley will lift my spirits, I want to read his book.
December 28, 2020
Parts of this were really good. The initial character development and premise are excellent. Anita is an intriguing blend of toughness and vulnerability. Kenneth is a classic alpha-hole with a few redeeming traits. The major conflict well set up and believable. The last 3rd falls apart when the male MC misses something obvious for far too long.
12/26 Update. Purchased Spiked Roses: The Complete Top Shelf Series and reread since it's been so long. My initial review stands.
12/26 Update. Purchased Spiked Roses: The Complete Top Shelf Series and reread since it's been so long. My initial review stands.
Read
August 30, 2021Reading the excerpt for this book I was very excited, I thought this was going to be a great series, I'm very disappointed. The characters were unlikable with contradictory personalities and absolutely nothing in the plot line indicated the insta-love that materialized out of thin air. And the sex scenes...well... This book wasn't dark, it was just...I feel like a need a shower.
I dislike doing reviews like this because I know indie authors work really hard, but this one completely missed the mark in my opinion. The best thing about this book is the cover.
I dislike doing reviews like this because I know indie authors work really hard, but this one completely missed the mark in my opinion. The best thing about this book is the cover.
December 14, 2017
If I haven't read the 2nd book before this one I would not continue with the series.
I'm against violence but help me god I really want to slap Anita... Several times... Annoying, envious, greedy character...
Kenneth was a pussy (his one words)
Really liked 2nd book, this was a bust...
I'm against violence but help me god I really want to slap Anita... Several times... Annoying, envious, greedy character...
Kenneth was a pussy (his one words)
Really liked 2nd book, this was a bust...
April 30, 2019
A little to insta love for a “darker” romance but a good read
Want to read
January 2, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon US today (9/10/2019)! 🎁
March 6, 2019
To be honest, I didn't read any of these books in the Top Shelf series when they first came out. Number five had just come out when I finally decided to read them. I won't say I feel like I missed a lot, BUT I will say that I did enjoy these stories.
I didn't know what I was getting into by reading these books. I went in blind even after all this time. I didn't want to know. I just bought or downloaded them on to my kindle with unlimited. Moreover, I have to say that I am happy I did it this way. Alta brings a rich and hidden world that lives in the Spiked Roses. Rich men that can have and get anything they want. However, after years of lawsuits, the owners are ready to change things up. This first book is when they do this change.
Anita and Kenneth are our first couple that finds chemistry, hot sex, and then finally love through the Spiked Roses. I have to say I did not expect to see the deepness in this book that I saw. I liked both characters, and the story kept you guessing. All the supporting characters are also interesting to read about — what an excellent start to a standalone series.
free-on-amazon-owned
September 15, 2021Free 15 Sept 2021
December 10, 2021
A new author for me and this book was surprisingly good. There were elements that were cringe worthy though and made me want toThroat punch the H. Kenneth the H clearly has a thing for Anita the h but for awhile his stupid contract is more important to him than an actual human… and really he trusts a mafioso leader not to murder a girl Who crossed him who he actually has sent a hit man after….unbelievable…. But still it was an easy quick read that I enjoyed enough to try the next in the series.
March 25, 2020
What a wasted opportunity this book is. As it was being promoted/hailed as a dark romance, I figured I'd give it a go. The story of Anita and Kenneth began exciting enough. The poor as dirt Podunk Anita with her kick-ass attitude who is longing for more excitement in her life, and with the help of the woman she is taking care of, decides to move to New Orleans. She begins working at Spiked Roses (a gentleman's club that caters to men with fetishes and kinks), managed by Kenneth who is one of several wealthy owners. This story held endless possibilities, but the author had other plans and around the 50% mark she changed course and it became a gigantic snooze-fest.
Anita became that person that was too fucking stupid to live and Kenneth turned into a wuss. This was not a dark romance! There was no anti-hero, no imbalance of power, no redemption, zero chemistry, and zero character development. The only scene that came remotely close to being dark had Anita running away after she had been warned twice about what she was getting herself into. Dumbest. Fucking. Character. Ever.
Not sure I care to continue with the series if this is what the author considers dark. Too bad Francette Phal failed to write the conclusion to Flawed, because that's a perfect example of a dark book that leaves you emotionally hungover for days. Days.
I would recommend this to readers who like their "dark", soft.
Anita became that person that was too fucking stupid to live and Kenneth turned into a wuss. This was not a dark romance! There was no anti-hero, no imbalance of power, no redemption, zero chemistry, and zero character development. The only scene that came remotely close to being dark had Anita running away after she had been warned twice about what she was getting herself into. Dumbest. Fucking. Character. Ever.
Not sure I care to continue with the series if this is what the author considers dark. Too bad Francette Phal failed to write the conclusion to Flawed, because that's a perfect example of a dark book that leaves you emotionally hungover for days. Days.
I would recommend this to readers who like their "dark", soft.
January 16, 2021
The Cover is Epic, but that's pretty much it.
This Is Classified as Dark Romance, but to me it just had a few tossed in 'dark' elements, it's tame really.
The whole Spiked Roses Men's Club seemed great and especially the beginning, but I gotta say you don't 'see' much of the club AT ALL within the book (that was disappointing)
What really done me in was ANITA, I thought she was great in the beginning a different type of girl then your typical read, but after she signs a contract with a non main character... She just turned from a cool character to down right stupid, whiny, annoying, and throws tantrums, What a HUGE let down.
But Kenneth was pretty cool, despite him not being much in the book, you saw him in the beginning and mainly near the 75% marker of the book..
Kenneth and Anita's attraction to each other was written blandly, it was almost boring and boarder line painful. Because they seemed thrown together and with the fast pace of everything, definitely underwhelming.
This Book is only getting 2 stars, but I'll put another star because I DID like the men's club idea and the rest of the guys around the african blackwood table.
I'd love to read their books, if they’re written better.
This Is Classified as Dark Romance, but to me it just had a few tossed in 'dark' elements, it's tame really.
The whole Spiked Roses Men's Club seemed great and especially the beginning, but I gotta say you don't 'see' much of the club AT ALL within the book (that was disappointing)
What really done me in was ANITA, I thought she was great in the beginning a different type of girl then your typical read, but after she signs a contract with a non main character... She just turned from a cool character to down right stupid, whiny, annoying, and throws tantrums, What a HUGE let down.
But Kenneth was pretty cool, despite him not being much in the book, you saw him in the beginning and mainly near the 75% marker of the book..
Kenneth and Anita's attraction to each other was written blandly, it was almost boring and boarder line painful. Because they seemed thrown together and with the fast pace of everything, definitely underwhelming.
This Book is only getting 2 stars, but I'll put another star because I DID like the men's club idea and the rest of the guys around the african blackwood table.
I'd love to read their books, if they’re written better.
in-collection-instafreebie
February 8, 20182/8/18 Instafreebie
https://www.instafreebie.com/free/IF5...
https://www.instafreebie.com/free/IF5...
August 25, 2022
Bastards & Whiskey (Top Shelf Series) by Alta Hensley (2.5 Stars)
There are men that have everything but still want more. Kenneth and his group of men own a gentleman’s club that caters to the most depraved act one can imagine. However, the women who work there, have the final say, until they sign on the dotted line. But do they really know what they are signing up for when they enter the tasting room? Anita leaves Nevada and embraces her new colorful life at Spike Rose. Eager for extra money, she signs on the dotted line, without fully understanding the contract until she has to make a decision that puts her life in jeopardy. Kenneth was livid with Anita and adamant to find her to make her pay for her sins, but it seems this little vixen had claws that he knew nothing about, and once she scratched him it took the game to a different level. Can he take her back and make her pay for her sins, or will he make her, his own biggest sin yet? This book had the potential to be really good. Anita started off with so much backbone that I found myself rooting for her. Kenneth was the usual billionaire, dark, broody, and I thought he would be more ruthless, but he somehow landed up lacking that trait. I landed up skimming the filler of smex as it just became toooooo much. I enjoyed the overall story, but the connection between the main characters was lacking and I did not feel the love. If anything it was just physical and after a while, that became a tad boring. The story also was not wrapped up, I am still left with some unanswered questions with regards to her friend and the money.
So overall an okay read with way too much smex that came across as filler, and a character that did not stay true to herself.
There are men that have everything but still want more. Kenneth and his group of men own a gentleman’s club that caters to the most depraved act one can imagine. However, the women who work there, have the final say, until they sign on the dotted line. But do they really know what they are signing up for when they enter the tasting room? Anita leaves Nevada and embraces her new colorful life at Spike Rose. Eager for extra money, she signs on the dotted line, without fully understanding the contract until she has to make a decision that puts her life in jeopardy. Kenneth was livid with Anita and adamant to find her to make her pay for her sins, but it seems this little vixen had claws that he knew nothing about, and once she scratched him it took the game to a different level. Can he take her back and make her pay for her sins, or will he make her, his own biggest sin yet? This book had the potential to be really good. Anita started off with so much backbone that I found myself rooting for her. Kenneth was the usual billionaire, dark, broody, and I thought he would be more ruthless, but he somehow landed up lacking that trait. I landed up skimming the filler of smex as it just became toooooo much. I enjoyed the overall story, but the connection between the main characters was lacking and I did not feel the love. If anything it was just physical and after a while, that became a tad boring. The story also was not wrapped up, I am still left with some unanswered questions with regards to her friend and the money.
So overall an okay read with way too much smex that came across as filler, and a character that did not stay true to herself.
Read
April 29, 2023DNF 45%
This one started so good. I was into the rich, morally gray men. I was excited to see how fucked up and dark this could go.
I had liked Anita before she signed that damn contract. Then everything that came after made her lose all credibility.
Like how are you outraged about what that guy is paying you a hundred grand to do? Not to mention that contract included the stuff you were so furious about. Not to mention you could’ve used a freaking safe word.
Bitch! You don’t have a leg to stand on! You’re a fucking thief! And you wanna pull the poor trailer trash routine? GTFOH!
After all that whining for something she did to herself and after she was given multiple opportunities to as for help. I’ve come to one blaring conclusion…
If all her heroines are like this one. This author is definitely not for me.
This one started so good. I was into the rich, morally gray men. I was excited to see how fucked up and dark this could go.
I had liked Anita before she signed that damn contract. Then everything that came after made her lose all credibility.
Like how are you outraged about what that guy is paying you a hundred grand to do? Not to mention that contract included the stuff you were so furious about. Not to mention you could’ve used a freaking safe word.
Bitch! You don’t have a leg to stand on! You’re a fucking thief! And you wanna pull the poor trailer trash routine? GTFOH!
After all that whining for something she did to herself and after she was given multiple opportunities to as for help. I’ve come to one blaring conclusion…
If all her heroines are like this one. This author is definitely not for me.
September 12, 2017
Holy Smokes! This was one hot book! This is my favorite book yet by Alta Hensley!
Kenneth is the dirty, kinky, very rich & successful lawyer for the exclusive mens club Spiked Roses. Anita is the sweet, somewhat innocent and naive girl who's just been hired there, after leaving her tiny town in the middle of nowhere. These two are absolutely explosive together! She is stubborn and sassy, and drives him up the wall! He is very uptight and controlling, but makes her feel things she's never felt before. When these two are together, the sparks fly!
I literally read this book in one sitting. Once I started, I couldn't put it down. This is my favorite book by her yet, and I can't wait to read the others coming in the series. I hope we get to see more of Tennessee Charles in the other books too...he is a very colorful character, I think he could be a lot of fun!
Kenneth is the dirty, kinky, very rich & successful lawyer for the exclusive mens club Spiked Roses. Anita is the sweet, somewhat innocent and naive girl who's just been hired there, after leaving her tiny town in the middle of nowhere. These two are absolutely explosive together! She is stubborn and sassy, and drives him up the wall! He is very uptight and controlling, but makes her feel things she's never felt before. When these two are together, the sparks fly!
I literally read this book in one sitting. Once I started, I couldn't put it down. This is my favorite book by her yet, and I can't wait to read the others coming in the series. I hope we get to see more of Tennessee Charles in the other books too...he is a very colorful character, I think he could be a lot of fun!
February 12, 2018
3.75 stars. Interesting premise with solid writing. I didn’t love the characters and I was a bit surprised there was insta-love considering what the h had been put through. The gentleman of Spike Roses have piqued my interest so I may read the other books in the series... specifically Harley Crows story.
Want to read
January 29, 2018★★★ ON SALE NOW! ★★★
Bastards & Whiskey by Alta Hensley is ON SALE for only 99c!
Amazon ➤ http://amzn.to/2np8P87
FREE with #Kindle Unlimited
I sit amongst the Presidents, Royalty, the Captains of Industry, and the wealthiest fucks in the world.
We own Spiked Roses—an exclusive, membership only establishment in New Orleans where money or lineage is the only way in. It is for the gentlemen who own everything and never hear the word no.
Sipping on whiskey, smoking cigars, and conducting multi-million dollar deals in our own personal playground of indulgence, there isn’t anything I can’t have… and that includes HER. I can also have HER if I want.
And I want.
*BASTARDS & WHISKEY is a dark billionaire romance. If you don’t like a sprinkle of shock, a dash of taboo, and a heavy dose of sex, then don’t take a sip of this TOP SHELF cocktail.
Bastards & Whiskey by Alta Hensley is ON SALE for only 99c!
Amazon ➤ http://amzn.to/2np8P87
FREE with #Kindle Unlimited
I sit amongst the Presidents, Royalty, the Captains of Industry, and the wealthiest fucks in the world.
We own Spiked Roses—an exclusive, membership only establishment in New Orleans where money or lineage is the only way in. It is for the gentlemen who own everything and never hear the word no.
Sipping on whiskey, smoking cigars, and conducting multi-million dollar deals in our own personal playground of indulgence, there isn’t anything I can’t have… and that includes HER. I can also have HER if I want.
And I want.
*BASTARDS & WHISKEY is a dark billionaire romance. If you don’t like a sprinkle of shock, a dash of taboo, and a heavy dose of sex, then don’t take a sip of this TOP SHELF cocktail.
September 14, 2017
Holy sweet batman, what has Alta Hensley done to me? My gosh, I am sitting here writing this review and still thinking of how Bastards & Whiskey annihilated my mind, body, soul and heart. Basically, it killed every thing in me but in the best way. What did you to me, Alta Hensley? I tell you this book cast some dark spell on me, possessing me, tantalizing me, consuming me and mesmerizing me. I was in deep from the first page to the last page. Wow, Bastards & Whisky was a book like no other. Alta Hensley is one of my favourite authors. Like, I drop everything to read her books. Number 1 fangirl here. And when she wrote Bastards & Whisky, she slayed it. She upped the game and wrote something so beautifully sinister to my being that it gave me tremors. What can I say that I was mind fucked and this book literally slapped me on the face and I am still recovering from it. Bastards & Whiskey was freaking fantastic and I loved every single of it.
Oh gosh, when I think of this book, I think of the crazy things happening. This book will make you lose your rockers like I did. I lost my apples and seriously got deranged. You need a book like that. To give you experience that will make you lose your mind because you have connected. And I was connected to this perfection of a book. Bastards & Whiskey was a dark and taboo phenomenal. It was filled with a gritty explosion that snuffed me out. So action packed. So powerful. So shocking. So energized. So interesting that I could not look away. Bastards & Whiskey was an amazing and top notch and expensive brand of whisky -dark, rich and sweet as sin. Man, I felt so engaged and haunted while I read this book. The scenes were freaking hot but also a roller coaster that made me delirious. It was definitely a beast of a book that roared and struck me. Plus, Bastards & Whisky had an essence of kinkiness and seductiveness that made me almost faint. Hahaha. I am talking of the "car scene" and "kitty dildo" scenes that made me speechless and horny as hell too. Seriously, I would love to know where Alta Hensley comes up with stuff in her books. Alta Hensley's writing seems to get better and better. And Bastards & Whisky proved she can weave a wicked and outstanding book that will stir up your body.
Kenneth was a kinky, powerful and dominant mofo. But he made my blood boil and quenched my heart. Seriously, I would love a taste of Kenneth but alas only in my dreams. He was a billionaire asshole the way I like it. Dangerous but so swoon worthy. Anita was likable. She was tough as nails and been through so much but there was times were she came of as brat and I wanted to freaking punch the daylights out of her. I know,harsh. But at the end, she owned up to her mistakes. Both Kenneth and Anita had amazing chemistry. It was sultry and electrifying.
Bastards & Whiskey definitely produced a fantastic and hot as hell ride. I can't wait for more of this series. I got my eye on someone.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Oh gosh, when I think of this book, I think of the crazy things happening. This book will make you lose your rockers like I did. I lost my apples and seriously got deranged. You need a book like that. To give you experience that will make you lose your mind because you have connected. And I was connected to this perfection of a book. Bastards & Whiskey was a dark and taboo phenomenal. It was filled with a gritty explosion that snuffed me out. So action packed. So powerful. So shocking. So energized. So interesting that I could not look away. Bastards & Whiskey was an amazing and top notch and expensive brand of whisky -dark, rich and sweet as sin. Man, I felt so engaged and haunted while I read this book. The scenes were freaking hot but also a roller coaster that made me delirious. It was definitely a beast of a book that roared and struck me. Plus, Bastards & Whisky had an essence of kinkiness and seductiveness that made me almost faint. Hahaha. I am talking of the "car scene" and "kitty dildo" scenes that made me speechless and horny as hell too. Seriously, I would love to know where Alta Hensley comes up with stuff in her books. Alta Hensley's writing seems to get better and better. And Bastards & Whisky proved she can weave a wicked and outstanding book that will stir up your body.
Kenneth was a kinky, powerful and dominant mofo. But he made my blood boil and quenched my heart. Seriously, I would love a taste of Kenneth but alas only in my dreams. He was a billionaire asshole the way I like it. Dangerous but so swoon worthy. Anita was likable. She was tough as nails and been through so much but there was times were she came of as brat and I wanted to freaking punch the daylights out of her. I know,harsh. But at the end, she owned up to her mistakes. Both Kenneth and Anita had amazing chemistry. It was sultry and electrifying.
Bastards & Whiskey definitely produced a fantastic and hot as hell ride. I can't wait for more of this series. I got my eye on someone.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 400 reviews