What do you think?
Rate this book
NSB #3
Viper
It’s not easy being the bad guy.
Yeah, that’s a lie. It’s pretty damn simple. You act and you own it. You sell your soul to protect those you love and screw the rest.
It’s the restraint that’s hard. The demons that poke at your trigger, burn in your gut—just waiting for a second of freedom to unleash the fire in your soul.
Call me a villain. Call me whatever helps you sleep at night and feel good about the black and white of love. But watch your back because I don’t care. Until I do.
And then I implode.
Note: VIPER directly follows the action in Tracing Holland (NSB #2), but can also be read as a standalone.
This novel is a work of fiction and intended for mature readers. Events and persons depicted are of a fictional nature and use language, make choices, and face situations inappropriate for younger readers.
Yeah, that’s a lie. It’s pretty damn simple. You act and you own it. You sell your soul to protect those you love and screw the rest.
It’s the restraint that’s hard. The demons that poke at your trigger, burn in your gut—just waiting for a second of freedom to unleash the fire in your soul.
Call me a villain. Call me whatever helps you sleep at night and feel good about the black and white of love. But watch your back because I don’t care. Until I do.
And then I implode.
Note: VIPER directly follows the action in Tracing Holland (NSB #2), but can also be read as a standalone.
This novel is a work of fiction and intended for mature readers. Events and persons depicted are of a fictional nature and use language, make choices, and face situations inappropriate for younger readers.
325 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 3, 2017
104 people are currently reading
561 people want to read
About the author
Aly Stiles
37 books506 followersLove. Laugh. Cry.
From angsty and dark to snort-laugh funny, Aly writes romance from her soul to yours.
Subscribe: http://www.subscribepage.com/r4a5s1
Follow:
Amazon >> https://www.amazon.com/author/alystiles
Facebook >> https://www.facebook.com/authoralysti...
Bookbub >> https://www.bookbub.com/authors/aly-s...
Instagram >> https://www.instagram.com/authoralyst...
From angsty and dark to snort-laugh funny, Aly writes romance from her soul to yours.
Subscribe: http://www.subscribepage.com/r4a5s1
Follow:
Amazon >> https://www.amazon.com/author/alystiles
Facebook >> https://www.facebook.com/authoralysti...
Bookbub >> https://www.bookbub.com/authors/aly-s...
Instagram >> https://www.instagram.com/authoralyst...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
October 4, 2017
Straight Up Adored
I prefer to read amazing books. Sound self-explanatory? Thing is, you can't just choose those; you don't know until you've taken your chance and dived into a book if it's stellar or not.
I'm not compelled to write reviews either if I didn't find hard-core magic while I read. That wasn't an issue with Viper. This baby made my review urges overflow. Romance can be so many things, but this, right here, is what I love most: a novel written beautifully, grittily, so damn fully in touch with that real story and the life it's projecting. In this case, it's the life of a rock star.
This is the best book I've read so far in 2017.
Wes is hot as fuck, and I have nothing against salivating over my main lead. There's a reason why Wes rocketed to fame the way he did with Tracing Holland: mix his looks with insane talent, and you have our stud and his success right there. He's also a badass, an alpha hero-slash-antihero, and I swooned over the delicate way Alyson teetered on the edge with him, showing us exactly how fragile he is within his bulletproof exterior.
So you've met Luke Craven. You thought he was complicated?
Well, you're in for a surprise, then, with Wes. This man you knew as the villain and the bad guy. Just you wait until the author is finished messing with your head, making you adore him even more than you adored Luke. (Bonus fun: you'll get to meet Luke again.)
Unfortunately, I'm also quick at doubting female authors' writing of male main characters. I mean, how can you speak for them, make them become believable as men when you write with the brain of a woman? Alyson makes the answer seem easy: take the task seriously and stir in one heck-of-a bucketful of talent is all you need to do. Alyson, hell did you show us how it's done.
There's nothing not to swoon over in this book baby. You have Hannah's lawyer/musician background, the way she's up front about always having had a thing for Wes, even back when he was the fiance of her sister Holland. Her interaction with Wes, so sweet, sassy, so hot. How Hannah might just rattle him in ways you don't see coming until they're there.
I'm being vague on purpose, because I want you to go into this book with all of your senses open, knowing that what Alyson Santos has written is real rock-star life. It's a story of being the victim and the aggressor in one, and if you're like me, your heart will beat like crazy while you read. And it's al-l-l-l-l going to be damn worth it in the end.
I prefer to read amazing books. Sound self-explanatory? Thing is, you can't just choose those; you don't know until you've taken your chance and dived into a book if it's stellar or not.
I'm not compelled to write reviews either if I didn't find hard-core magic while I read. That wasn't an issue with Viper. This baby made my review urges overflow. Romance can be so many things, but this, right here, is what I love most: a novel written beautifully, grittily, so damn fully in touch with that real story and the life it's projecting. In this case, it's the life of a rock star.
This is the best book I've read so far in 2017.
Wes is hot as fuck, and I have nothing against salivating over my main lead. There's a reason why Wes rocketed to fame the way he did with Tracing Holland: mix his looks with insane talent, and you have our stud and his success right there. He's also a badass, an alpha hero-slash-antihero, and I swooned over the delicate way Alyson teetered on the edge with him, showing us exactly how fragile he is within his bulletproof exterior.
So you've met Luke Craven. You thought he was complicated?
Well, you're in for a surprise, then, with Wes. This man you knew as the villain and the bad guy. Just you wait until the author is finished messing with your head, making you adore him even more than you adored Luke. (Bonus fun: you'll get to meet Luke again.)
Unfortunately, I'm also quick at doubting female authors' writing of male main characters. I mean, how can you speak for them, make them become believable as men when you write with the brain of a woman? Alyson makes the answer seem easy: take the task seriously and stir in one heck-of-a bucketful of talent is all you need to do. Alyson, hell did you show us how it's done.
There's nothing not to swoon over in this book baby. You have Hannah's lawyer/musician background, the way she's up front about always having had a thing for Wes, even back when he was the fiance of her sister Holland. Her interaction with Wes, so sweet, sassy, so hot. How Hannah might just rattle him in ways you don't see coming until they're there.
I'm being vague on purpose, because I want you to go into this book with all of your senses open, knowing that what Alyson Santos has written is real rock-star life. It's a story of being the victim and the aggressor in one, and if you're like me, your heart will beat like crazy while you read. And it's al-l-l-l-l going to be damn worth it in the end.
October 19, 2017
3.5 Stars
"Session in progress. We’re all sessions in progress. Aspiring humans trying to survive a world that rarely gets better. Only we do."
This was one solid book. Alyson Santos is definitely a rock star (pun intended) when it comes to rock star books and Viper is no exception. The book definitely kept me interested. Wes was one heck of an angsty rock star, and well he was a rockstar through and through if you know what I mean! I will say I'm not sure this could really be read as a standalone. A lot of the things that happen here are as a result of the events in Tracing Holland (Book 2) and so I feel like it might be hard to follow if you don't have this background knowledge. I loved Tracing Holland to pieces that book was a big 5 stars for me, but with Viper, I felt at times that there was something missing. Maybe because there was a lot of back and forth between Wes and Hannah, or maybe because Wes used to be engaged to Hannah's sister and at times kept 1) professing his love for Holland 2)referring to Hannah at his little sister. You know me, I want to absolutely feel the love between my leads and second best settling is a huge peeve of mine. However, I definitely enjoyed the resolution. Plus, like I said, Alyson is a wonderful storyteller. Can't wait to see what she brings us next!
"Session in progress. We’re all sessions in progress. Aspiring humans trying to survive a world that rarely gets better. Only we do."
This was one solid book. Alyson Santos is definitely a rock star (pun intended) when it comes to rock star books and Viper is no exception. The book definitely kept me interested. Wes was one heck of an angsty rock star, and well he was a rockstar through and through if you know what I mean! I will say I'm not sure this could really be read as a standalone. A lot of the things that happen here are as a result of the events in Tracing Holland (Book 2) and so I feel like it might be hard to follow if you don't have this background knowledge. I loved Tracing Holland to pieces that book was a big 5 stars for me, but with Viper, I felt at times that there was something missing. Maybe because there was a lot of back and forth between Wes and Hannah, or maybe because Wes used to be engaged to Hannah's sister and at times kept 1) professing his love for Holland 2)referring to Hannah at his little sister. You know me, I want to absolutely feel the love between my leads and second best settling is a huge peeve of mine. However, I definitely enjoyed the resolution. Plus, like I said, Alyson is a wonderful storyteller. Can't wait to see what she brings us next!
September 20, 2017
"Fangs bared, spring out, out
Of hell, don't tell
Me what I am
I'm not, not your pet
I'm your hidden regret
So hear me, you should fucking fear me
As I rise"
"I need you to kick the world's ass for me while I hide. That's why I came to you. I need you to be my Viper."
"We are Viper Rising"
"Coil of strength wound tight to hide. To lie. To wither and writhe. In its prison it cries, 'Coil of Rage!'"
Above are a few quotes from the book that stood out to me big time. Lyrics actually.
So I received an ARC from Alyson Santos. It isn't a surprise that I'm a huge fan. I love every book she writes and Wes' story was no different.
Even though Wes is a "Villain" I just knew from Tracing Holland that he had a lot of baggage and a hard past. It was heartbreaking the fact that he was never "good enough" because he was an artist and not following in the media industry.
Frederick Alton is a complete asshole. Once you read you'll understand more, trust me asshole is putting it nicely.
I'm not going to name the heroine in this review because I was not expecting it to happen the way it did so I don't want to spoil that for anyone. It was a nice surprise. She fits Wes Alton perfectly though. A perfect match.
Just like the other books in NSB depression is brought up and focused on. That's one of the things I love about Alyson is she brings up depression and mental health. Her characters deal with depression and may "hide out" from time to time but they always come out on top.
I definitely recommend this book for everyone. You don't have to read Night Shifts Black or Tracing Holland to read Viper. It can be read as a standalone because in Viper it touches the issue with Wes, Holland and Luke.
Of hell, don't tell
Me what I am
I'm not, not your pet
I'm your hidden regret
So hear me, you should fucking fear me
As I rise"
"I need you to kick the world's ass for me while I hide. That's why I came to you. I need you to be my Viper."
"We are Viper Rising"
"Coil of strength wound tight to hide. To lie. To wither and writhe. In its prison it cries, 'Coil of Rage!'"
Above are a few quotes from the book that stood out to me big time. Lyrics actually.
So I received an ARC from Alyson Santos. It isn't a surprise that I'm a huge fan. I love every book she writes and Wes' story was no different.
Even though Wes is a "Villain" I just knew from Tracing Holland that he had a lot of baggage and a hard past. It was heartbreaking the fact that he was never "good enough" because he was an artist and not following in the media industry.
Frederick Alton is a complete asshole. Once you read you'll understand more, trust me asshole is putting it nicely.
I'm not going to name the heroine in this review because I was not expecting it to happen the way it did so I don't want to spoil that for anyone. It was a nice surprise. She fits Wes Alton perfectly though. A perfect match.
Just like the other books in NSB depression is brought up and focused on. That's one of the things I love about Alyson is she brings up depression and mental health. Her characters deal with depression and may "hide out" from time to time but they always come out on top.
I definitely recommend this book for everyone. You don't have to read Night Shifts Black or Tracing Holland to read Viper. It can be read as a standalone because in Viper it touches the issue with Wes, Holland and Luke.
October 4, 2017
Viper by Alyson Santos is beyond everything I expected. Santos continues to grab her readers and place them directly in the midst of the storyline.
Wes Alton had it all. However, he let his temper and over protectiveness possibly ruin friendships that have lasted for years. Not to mention tanking his own career.
Wes has so much to face, and a family that is beyond cold and ruthless to deal with, on top of vicious women out to ruin him.
I love that Santos shows us what lies inside of Wes. She opens his broken soul and shows us that he has so much to fight for.
I love the way this storyline unfolds, and the strength that comes out of true friendship and love.
"I need you to kick the world's ass for me while I hide. That's why I came to you. I need you to be my Viper."
"Vipers measure their venom too. Yep, they control how much they want to release into their prey."
5 Huge Stars!!!
Wes Alton had it all. However, he let his temper and over protectiveness possibly ruin friendships that have lasted for years. Not to mention tanking his own career.
Wes has so much to face, and a family that is beyond cold and ruthless to deal with, on top of vicious women out to ruin him.
I love that Santos shows us what lies inside of Wes. She opens his broken soul and shows us that he has so much to fight for.
I love the way this storyline unfolds, and the strength that comes out of true friendship and love.
"I need you to kick the world's ass for me while I hide. That's why I came to you. I need you to be my Viper."
"Vipers measure their venom too. Yep, they control how much they want to release into their prey."
5 Huge Stars!!!
May 4, 2018
5 "I need you to be my viper." Stars
Alyson Santos just continues to impress and captivate to me with her unique voice in the realm of music and tortured souls. Her engaging characters have me hooked to this series. In Viper we get the trying tale of the enigmatic Wes Alton from Tracing Holland. Risk versus reward comes into play huge with Wes as he makes rash choices to defend his beliefs that always end up with devastating consequences. We knew this. What we didn't know that his soul mate was someone completely different, yet the same, from who you'd expect. What I also didn't expect was how much I'd fall for Wes after the beginning of this journey or much I understood him. This is an edgy story of manipulation, betrayal, and a destructive separation. It's also a beautifully taken risk in hope and love and acceptance. Santos takes us on that journey of discovery between two people who's familiarity with each other leads to chaos of the heart and choices fans of the series never see coming. It was another rewarding story in the Night Shifts Black series. Something a little different than the first two yet conceptually still so fitting within this world Santos has so carefully and perfectly constructed. Her gifted writing shines still gluing you to the pages from beginning to end. I'm storming through this series with a vengeance and still get can't enough.
"I should have known if I gave up everything for Holland Drake, one day I'd have nothing. I especially should have known that no matter how much we hurt each other I would sell my soul to protect her."
My 5 star reviews for the first two books of the NSB series:
Book One: Night Shifts Black
Book Two: Tracing Holland
September 20, 2017
5 Cranky Stars
The last time we seen Wes his life was imploding around him. Having made an epic mistake that left his future with Tracing Holland in the balance. He's now doing the usual avoidance routine thinking his actions were justified. Holland has always been his and now she's not. He's trying to find himself while dealing with serious family conflict. What he wasn't expecting on one of his shame spirals was Miranda who has a serious agenda and Hannah who flips the script on his life.
Hannah Drake is the sister of the infamous Holland Drake. She has always admired Wes from afar. He was the only one she felt she can be her true self around. The artist in her is drawn to the artist in him. Instead of chasing that dream she becomes a lawyer, a country club member with a well to do boyfriend. Hannah has a tendency to go dark. She throws her whole life out the window and runs to Wes knowing and hoping against hope that he will keep her secret.
I hated you Wesley Alton almost as much as I loved you. You went on some epic spirals thats for sure. Hannah is a lot of us rather we admit it or not. That dark place that lives in us and we doubt our self worth or if we are even remotely good at things. It's not a good place to be. That's what I love about Alyson Santos she makes you feel not so alone and tackles real life issues head on. I knew I would love this story and it didn't disappoint me. I might just try to #woowes
The last time we seen Wes his life was imploding around him. Having made an epic mistake that left his future with Tracing Holland in the balance. He's now doing the usual avoidance routine thinking his actions were justified. Holland has always been his and now she's not. He's trying to find himself while dealing with serious family conflict. What he wasn't expecting on one of his shame spirals was Miranda who has a serious agenda and Hannah who flips the script on his life.
Hannah Drake is the sister of the infamous Holland Drake. She has always admired Wes from afar. He was the only one she felt she can be her true self around. The artist in her is drawn to the artist in him. Instead of chasing that dream she becomes a lawyer, a country club member with a well to do boyfriend. Hannah has a tendency to go dark. She throws her whole life out the window and runs to Wes knowing and hoping against hope that he will keep her secret.
I hated you Wesley Alton almost as much as I loved you. You went on some epic spirals thats for sure. Hannah is a lot of us rather we admit it or not. That dark place that lives in us and we doubt our self worth or if we are even remotely good at things. It's not a good place to be. That's what I love about Alyson Santos she makes you feel not so alone and tackles real life issues head on. I knew I would love this story and it didn't disappoint me. I might just try to #woowes
October 1, 2017
This was possibly my most anticipated book of 2017 based on two things. First, Night Shifts Black and Tracing Holland were both spectacular and in my Top Ten for last year. Second, Wes was a completely irredeemable jerk in Tracing Holland (and if you know me at all, you know I love assholes and redemption stories). But honestly, I had no idea it would be this good. I had no clue I could love two characters so completely. I never guessed Wes would absolutely captivate me. And I certainly never expected a three week book hangover. Yeah...never saw that coming. I absolutely, completely, passionately loved everything about ViperThis book was amazing. Alyson Santos does one thing better than anybody else, she tells beautiful, real, character driven stories. She never relies on fake drama or manufactured angst. She takes beautifully flawed characters and lets us take their journey with them. She lets us feel their emotions, revel in their triumphs and wallow in their mistakes. I screamed at Wes when he was stupid and obstinate and self-destructive, I cheered for him when he smart and selfless and protective, I swooned watching him grow the hell up and fall head over heels. Wes somehow, unexpectedly, inexplicably became my very favorite of all of the NSB boys. I adore him passionately.(I never thought Alyson could pull that off.)
But this book is not all about the boy. Hannah is just...Hannah is magnificent. Hannah is fighting her own set of demons, but damn is she one of my favorite female characters. She is fiercely loyal, she is smart and brave and funny and refreshing. Wes is not an easy guy to be with, he has bad judgement and bad vices at times. But Hannah handles it all beautifully, never distracted by the rhetoric, she is steady and compassionate. She is also insecure and unsure and sometimes struggles with making the important decisions. In other words...she's remarkably human.
This story has so many brilliantly intertwined layers. It's ridiculously well crafted and intelligent. And subtle, it's so beautifully subtle and understated. This is a book that moved me with words and phrases. It got me with quiet gestures and sweet sacrifices, instead of grand gestures and over the top declarations. This book made me feel everything, without making me feel manipulated. I absolutely adored the journey.
I'm having a hard time letting this one go. I couldn't put it down. I blew off work and sleep to read this book and now, almost three weeks later, I still haven't read anything else. Every time I think I might start something new, I pick up my kindle and start reading Viper again. You know how it goes, I pick it up to just read one or two of my favorite parts. But my favorites parts are pretty much the entire book and next thing I know, I'm finishing this one all over again. I have to admit, even as I go back and re-read, I'm blown away by the beauty of this story. Friendship and romance, family and forgiveness, first times and second chances, love and passion, regret and redemption....this book has everything. This book IS everything!!
September 21, 2017
Whoa! I'm a huge Alyson Santos fan, she has a unique writing style and a way with words that lead the reader to believe they are actually a part of the story. Viper follows rockstar Wes Alton and we manage to join his story just as he hits rock bottom in the worst possible way for a rockstar. As it happens his ex best friends sister, Hannah Drake, is also having some major issues of her own and together they try and overcoming me them and make sense of everything around them. We met Wes previously, he did not make the best impression in book 2, Tracing Holland, and I've got to say I didn't have a lot of love or sympathy for him in Tracing Holland or at the beginning of Viper. Fast forward a few chapters and I see he is the most misunderstood rockstar imaginable. Get into his head, I realise he’s loving, caring, devoted and completely protective of those he loves even if it makes him come across as the villain (and it does). His family are evil (apart from his sister), how could a dad treat his own flesh and blood like that? I have so much to say about this book, and so many feelings ranging from sadness to joy, but none of it truly does the story justice. I love this series and Viper gives me faith in humanity and makes me sad that some people can be so cruel, pretty much like life itself. Whilst Viper can be read as a standalone it would be a shame to miss out on the previous Night Shifts Black books. I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2017
This is the third book in this series and the third novel I've read written by Alyson Santos and I can assure you she has an amazing way to put words on a page and create a beautiful, raw and compelling story.
I loved and suffered along with the main characters reading their journey.They are both suffering,they are tired to fight and they are trying to hide from the World.Wes escaping into the alcohol and the women,Hannah becoming invisible but they know each other too well to let the other be alone and implode.
"Her darkness is mine
Desperate to hide,
In the lie of
Breathing hard.
Igniting skin, she sins in the
betrayal of lust
She just, needs a sign that
she's alive and
Free to fly."
People will tell you tha Wes is the villain but to me he is a real life Hero.
"I want a burning,bloody heart I can own."
When I turned Viper's last page I thought that we don't have to be perfect at all the time but we have to find always the strength to go on and overcome our dark moments,because there is so much beauty around us and we can't miss it.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
October 13, 2017
I am so drunk in love with this book Viper by Alyson Santos.
I met and fell in love with Alyson's writing in Night Shifts Black (Or as we call it NSB). This book opened me heart to looking at the world a very different way and to look at what goes on around you and to listen more to people and reach out and start a conversation.
I was addicted to Alyson's words from that book on and waiting for Wes's story had me all kinds of impatient. However we are almost Viper Eve and I cannot tell you enough how much I love adore This book.
In Viper you get Wes's story, I am crushing (no wait that's not the right word) I was salivating on every word #Wesisthetotalpackage, he is the right mix of Brooding Rocker and Walking Sex God. He is quick witted, sexy as hell and woman flock to him.
When he crosses paths with Hannah Drake (Sister of his Ex and fellow band member Holland) things get a little interesting. Hannah is such a gorgeous put together woman who has everything she wants....or is it what she thinks she wants?
Fireworks and whole lot of sexy banter is what you will get in Viper and a whole lot of emotional feelings when Wes sees Hannah at her very lowest point.
This is one of my favourite reads this year, I am addicted to Wes and Alyson Santos her words are so breathtakingly beautiful yet have so much feeling and meaning. I cannot recommend this book enough.
Addicting, Emotional and Breathtaking
Viper can be read as a Stand Alone
I met and fell in love with Alyson's writing in Night Shifts Black (Or as we call it NSB). This book opened me heart to looking at the world a very different way and to look at what goes on around you and to listen more to people and reach out and start a conversation.
I was addicted to Alyson's words from that book on and waiting for Wes's story had me all kinds of impatient. However we are almost Viper Eve and I cannot tell you enough how much I love adore This book.
In Viper you get Wes's story, I am crushing (no wait that's not the right word) I was salivating on every word #Wesisthetotalpackage, he is the right mix of Brooding Rocker and Walking Sex God. He is quick witted, sexy as hell and woman flock to him.
When he crosses paths with Hannah Drake (Sister of his Ex and fellow band member Holland) things get a little interesting. Hannah is such a gorgeous put together woman who has everything she wants....or is it what she thinks she wants?
Fireworks and whole lot of sexy banter is what you will get in Viper and a whole lot of emotional feelings when Wes sees Hannah at her very lowest point.
This is one of my favourite reads this year, I am addicted to Wes and Alyson Santos her words are so breathtakingly beautiful yet have so much feeling and meaning. I cannot recommend this book enough.
Addicting, Emotional and Breathtaking
Viper can be read as a Stand Alone
May 4, 2019
I disliked Wes in Tracing Holland (Book 2). A lot.
By the end of Viper, I loved him. I understood him. My heart broke for him.
There’s so much more to Wes Alton, and Ms. Santos did a fantastic job of showing me that.
I love the way the story centers around music. The passion and love of music shows in the words and I thoroughly enjoy the way the author could make me feel it. I swear I could hear it.
Excellent writing pulled me in and made me want to keep turning the pages. I loved seeing more of Luke & Holland, and I absolutely adored Hannah.
Can’t wait to start the next book in the series - Limelight.
By the end of Viper, I loved him. I understood him. My heart broke for him.
There’s so much more to Wes Alton, and Ms. Santos did a fantastic job of showing me that.
I love the way the story centers around music. The passion and love of music shows in the words and I thoroughly enjoy the way the author could make me feel it. I swear I could hear it.
Excellent writing pulled me in and made me want to keep turning the pages. I loved seeing more of Luke & Holland, and I absolutely adored Hannah.
Can’t wait to start the next book in the series - Limelight.
September 27, 2017
*** ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review. ***
Alyson Santos is definitely one of favorite authors. This one is no exception. She can write about tormented and tortured characters in such way, gripping and beautifully heartbreaking.
It was music to my ears, a melancholic melody, from a darkness journey to a brighten one, showing people scars like no other, never judging, when two people accepted each other's fully. Just right in the feels.
Full review to come.
Alyson Santos is definitely one of favorite authors. This one is no exception. She can write about tormented and tortured characters in such way, gripping and beautifully heartbreaking.
It was music to my ears, a melancholic melody, from a darkness journey to a brighten one, showing people scars like no other, never judging, when two people accepted each other's fully. Just right in the feels.
Full review to come.
January 22, 2018
Wes grew quite a bit in this book. Loved revisiting Luke and holland.
September 19, 2017
Review to come.
October 17, 2017
http://amzn.to/2x2hvcf
Viper was beautifully well written and a book I struggled with.
You see I hated Wes, I didn’t love him in the prior books in the series and as I read Viper I disliked him even more. So while hats off the author for evoking so much emotion that emotion made me almost not care if Wes found a happy.
Wes finds himself at a crossroads in his life; he is on the outs with his childhood best friend and former bandmate Holland Drake and the reader finds him spiraling out of control.
This spiral is meet with the life altering changes facing Hannah Drake, Holland’s sister. Hannah has her own struggles and demons to face. I will pause and say these are the moments I did love Wes, his care and compassion for Hannah’s mental health was really powerful.
As with Ms Santos’s prior books the use of music and song lyrics was crazy powerful.
Wes’ ability to put his emotions into haunting words truly moving me and we sits down with Hannah to create these two become someone beyond special. Their bond becomes tangible and the love and connection shines thru.
The happy Wes does find with Hannah Drake was truly perfect for both of them and there was absolutely no weirdness around Hannah being the sister of Wes’ ex Holland.
I did have to put this book down once and step away from Wes, it was that on throw my kindle against the wall but in the end his redemption was both believable and perfect for him.
If you LOVE books where the hero grows, where the hero redeems himself this is a book for you!
Viper was beautifully well written and a book I struggled with.
You see I hated Wes, I didn’t love him in the prior books in the series and as I read Viper I disliked him even more. So while hats off the author for evoking so much emotion that emotion made me almost not care if Wes found a happy.
Wes finds himself at a crossroads in his life; he is on the outs with his childhood best friend and former bandmate Holland Drake and the reader finds him spiraling out of control.
This spiral is meet with the life altering changes facing Hannah Drake, Holland’s sister. Hannah has her own struggles and demons to face. I will pause and say these are the moments I did love Wes, his care and compassion for Hannah’s mental health was really powerful.
As with Ms Santos’s prior books the use of music and song lyrics was crazy powerful.
Wes’ ability to put his emotions into haunting words truly moving me and we sits down with Hannah to create these two become someone beyond special. Their bond becomes tangible and the love and connection shines thru.
The happy Wes does find with Hannah Drake was truly perfect for both of them and there was absolutely no weirdness around Hannah being the sister of Wes’ ex Holland.
I did have to put this book down once and step away from Wes, it was that on throw my kindle against the wall but in the end his redemption was both believable and perfect for him.
If you LOVE books where the hero grows, where the hero redeems himself this is a book for you!
October 17, 2017
4.5 STARS
And to think I was under the impression Wes was a total dickhead in Tracing Holland…..
I absolutely love real, gritty, and raw when it comes to rocker romances. Because let’s be honest, the life of a rockstar is NOT unicorns and rainbows. It’s full of passion and the pouring of your heart soul into your art. The entire NSB Series is laden with blood, sweat, and tears. But Viper brought another layer to the series.
Wes’s story was unexpected and totally captivating. He’s not the hard uncaring asshole he appears to be. There is so much more to Wes than he allows people to see…. and for good reason. He’s passionate about his music and even more so about those he loves.
Viper is a fabulous addition to the already deep and dark NSB Series. Alyson Santos is truly a gift to readers with her exquisite and beautiful writing that flows like the lyrics of a song. This surely isn’t my first read from Alyson, but she continues to blow me away with her style and the sheer brilliance of her writing. She definitely did not disappoint with Wes’s story.
Certainly another addition to my favorites bookshelf.
**An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided in exchange for an honest review**
And to think I was under the impression Wes was a total dickhead in Tracing Holland…..
I absolutely love real, gritty, and raw when it comes to rocker romances. Because let’s be honest, the life of a rockstar is NOT unicorns and rainbows. It’s full of passion and the pouring of your heart soul into your art. The entire NSB Series is laden with blood, sweat, and tears. But Viper brought another layer to the series.
Wes’s story was unexpected and totally captivating. He’s not the hard uncaring asshole he appears to be. There is so much more to Wes than he allows people to see…. and for good reason. He’s passionate about his music and even more so about those he loves.
Viper is a fabulous addition to the already deep and dark NSB Series. Alyson Santos is truly a gift to readers with her exquisite and beautiful writing that flows like the lyrics of a song. This surely isn’t my first read from Alyson, but she continues to blow me away with her style and the sheer brilliance of her writing. She definitely did not disappoint with Wes’s story.
Certainly another addition to my favorites bookshelf.
**An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided in exchange for an honest review**
January 31, 2024
Viper by Aly Stiles is about a musician named Wes who is in a band with his long time ex, but has a falling out with her. In the midst of their drama, her little sister Hannah shows up at his door and asks to stay with him for a while to hide out from her family after a break up. Wes understands her and the mental health issues she deals with, and their chemistry shifts from friends to lovers as they help each other emotionally, and start writing music together. I liked the rock star aspect and Wes and Hannah’s relationship, they were both misunderstood by the people in their lives. I loved the audiobook, narrated by my favorite, Joe Arden! I definitely recommend!
October 1, 2017
Firstly, can I strongly suggest that you read the previous books in the series. At the very least, read Tracing Holland (purchase link below) so that you understand the history and understand how Wes gets to this point.
Now, I've only recently discovered the NSB books, and I have read both the previous volumes in short order. And I loved them. So, when I realised that this book was going to be about Wes, I was worried. After all, he's the villain!
However, I needn't have been concerned. The strength in writing an anti-hero is whether or not the author can make you love him nevertheless. In this case, the author turned my view around, not just by having a sad back-story for Wes (although his relationship with his family is completely dysfunctional), but rather by laying him low as a result of his actions, and then giving him the opportunity of redemption.
This is not hearts and flowers. This is a bit raw, very emotional and completely wonderful. I just want more.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Now, I've only recently discovered the NSB books, and I have read both the previous volumes in short order. And I loved them. So, when I realised that this book was going to be about Wes, I was worried. After all, he's the villain!
However, I needn't have been concerned. The strength in writing an anti-hero is whether or not the author can make you love him nevertheless. In this case, the author turned my view around, not just by having a sad back-story for Wes (although his relationship with his family is completely dysfunctional), but rather by laying him low as a result of his actions, and then giving him the opportunity of redemption.
This is not hearts and flowers. This is a bit raw, very emotional and completely wonderful. I just want more.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
October 11, 2017
I wasn't sure whether I'd change my mind about Wes, but it turns out I did!
Wes was in a seriously bad way. Not knowing his status with the band, Tracing Holland, or even his relationship with his longtime best friend, Holland. He was burying himself in alcohol and mindless sex (what else is new?).
But there was one person who showed up in his life and she was exactly what he needed. Just so happens, it's Holland's sister, Hannah. Turns out, she needed him too. Hannah had her own struggles, but when her and Wes were together, all their problems seemed to disappear and they leaned on each other and made each other laugh.
Love this series and was so happy to see Ms. Santos had continued it....next is Limelight!! Yay me!!
Wes was in a seriously bad way. Not knowing his status with the band, Tracing Holland, or even his relationship with his longtime best friend, Holland. He was burying himself in alcohol and mindless sex (what else is new?).
But there was one person who showed up in his life and she was exactly what he needed. Just so happens, it's Holland's sister, Hannah. Turns out, she needed him too. Hannah had her own struggles, but when her and Wes were together, all their problems seemed to disappear and they leaned on each other and made each other laugh.
Love this series and was so happy to see Ms. Santos had continued it....next is Limelight!! Yay me!!
November 3, 2018
Wes Alton went from being super villain to super hero then back to villain. My feelings for him changed so much I got whiplash. I wanted to open up a can of whoopass on him and hit him in the goolies.
With his career imploding around him and having lost his best friend Holland Wes is left to seek comfort in a bottle and meaningless sex with hook ups. His saviour comes in the form of Hannah Drake, little sister of Holland.
Hannah is in the middle of her own crisis and Wes is the one who can be her saviour too. Music helps them both find a way out of darkness before mercurial Wes can explode again.
I’ve loved all three books I’ve read in this series. Rock Star books with a whole lot of angst.
With his career imploding around him and having lost his best friend Holland Wes is left to seek comfort in a bottle and meaningless sex with hook ups. His saviour comes in the form of Hannah Drake, little sister of Holland.
Hannah is in the middle of her own crisis and Wes is the one who can be her saviour too. Music helps them both find a way out of darkness before mercurial Wes can explode again.
I’ve loved all three books I’ve read in this series. Rock Star books with a whole lot of angst.
January 7, 2019
I could not imagine liking Wes as a character after the previous book in the series and to be honest I don't love him here either but I understand him so much more...so much more. The author seems to have really grown in storytelling in each book of the series. Too often the first book is the best and the rest stretch to find the best....but taking a least liked character and help us understand his life (his hurts, his self destruct, his caring) was magnificent.
Can't wait for more!!
Can't wait for more!!
January 29, 2024
Viper is the third book in the Hold Me series by Aly Stiles. It's a rockstar romance (ex's sister), and it was absolutely amazing! This is actually the first book I've ever read by this author, and you can bet I'll be going back to read the first two books in this series (although this one is a complete stand-alone).
Wes and Hannah were everything! Told completely from Wes's point of view, this whole story had me captivated from beginning to end, and the more I read, the more I needed! I really loved how Wes grew emotionally and mentally throughout the story. Hannah was everything he never knew he was missing. I loved every word of it and can't wait to read more amazing stories by this author! Highly recommended with way more than five stars!
Wes and Hannah were everything! Told completely from Wes's point of view, this whole story had me captivated from beginning to end, and the more I read, the more I needed! I really loved how Wes grew emotionally and mentally throughout the story. Hannah was everything he never knew he was missing. I loved every word of it and can't wait to read more amazing stories by this author! Highly recommended with way more than five stars!
October 10, 2017
5 Haunting Guitars for Viper
I guess the first thing I have to admit is that I was slightly disappointed when I realized this was Wes' book. To say that I wasn't a fan after Holland and Luke's book would be a major understatement. But Alyson Santos' NSB series is impossible to resist. I was hooked from reading the synopsis of the first book about Luke and the bleeping chair. I think I will probably always be a Casey girl at heart, though I am looking forward to Jesse's book, and Luke will always have a place in my literary heart. Not to mention the Drake girls. And I am pretty sure Hannah is my favorite one of those, Put what you think of Wes' previous appearance aside, and know that this is as much Hannah's book as his.
Ms. Santos has a true talent for writing broken characters, and portraying mental illness in a realistic light. This is certainly not her first foray into mental illness in a character, but Hannah's fight resonated with me, probably even more than Luke's. I don't want to turn a book review into a social issues platform, but these kinds of conversations are vital to removing the stigma, and she has, once again, done a beautiful job.
And, yes, Wes has more redeeming qualities than I would have seen coming, even if he is a hot mess. Additional kudos for writing the despicable Miranda wonderfully as well. I realize the author has non-rockstar books I need to make time for, but I absolutely adore her take on musicians, and I will be first in line for her next encore.
I guess the first thing I have to admit is that I was slightly disappointed when I realized this was Wes' book. To say that I wasn't a fan after Holland and Luke's book would be a major understatement. But Alyson Santos' NSB series is impossible to resist. I was hooked from reading the synopsis of the first book about Luke and the bleeping chair. I think I will probably always be a Casey girl at heart, though I am looking forward to Jesse's book, and Luke will always have a place in my literary heart. Not to mention the Drake girls. And I am pretty sure Hannah is my favorite one of those, Put what you think of Wes' previous appearance aside, and know that this is as much Hannah's book as his.
Ms. Santos has a true talent for writing broken characters, and portraying mental illness in a realistic light. This is certainly not her first foray into mental illness in a character, but Hannah's fight resonated with me, probably even more than Luke's. I don't want to turn a book review into a social issues platform, but these kinds of conversations are vital to removing the stigma, and she has, once again, done a beautiful job.
And, yes, Wes has more redeeming qualities than I would have seen coming, even if he is a hot mess. Additional kudos for writing the despicable Miranda wonderfully as well. I realize the author has non-rockstar books I need to make time for, but I absolutely adore her take on musicians, and I will be first in line for her next encore.
January 18, 2024
Wow! Wes is such a mess. He’s rockstar without his band, he’s hiding from the world wallowing, but when a one night stand overhears a conversation she wasn’t meant to, Wes is stuck in a twisted & complicated situation. Hannah is also a mess, she is struggling with depression and decides hiding out at Wes’ place is what she needs to escape.
Hannah and Wes both have a lot of things they need to work through and figure out. This is a messy story, full of angst, hurt and anger.
I love that it deals with mental health and how it can affect anyone.
This was such an intense story and Joe Arden of course brings so much passion and angst out, he never fails to do an amazing job.
Hannah and Wes both have a lot of things they need to work through and figure out. This is a messy story, full of angst, hurt and anger.
I love that it deals with mental health and how it can affect anyone.
This was such an intense story and Joe Arden of course brings so much passion and angst out, he never fails to do an amazing job.
January 15, 2024
I really enjoyed this one! Aly Stiles is a new-to-me author and this book was such a ride. Now I want to listen to the rest of this series! I’m all for an emotional, enemies to lovers, rockstar romance andI ended up loving this story and -most- of its characters! Wes and Hannah’s story was so heartbreakingly beautiful and I thought Hannah was perfect for Wes, though everyone else seemed against them.
Wes has a falling out with his best friend, and former band mate, Holland who also happens to be Hannah’s sister. Wes is on a downward spiral and Joe Arden did an outstanding job depicting his struggles and his downfall. I also liked his Han voice and he does an amazing job at creating voices for each character. I really appreciate the mental health representation in this book and the way that Wes cares for Han. He only wanted the best for her and was always putting her needs/mental health before his own. Over time, she became his muse and inspiration. They became each other’s reason to create songs/music together and it was beautiful!
Read this if you enjoy:
🎸 Rockstar Romance
🖤 Friends To Lovers
🎸 Emotional Rollercoaster
🖤 Some Angst
Wes has a falling out with his best friend, and former band mate, Holland who also happens to be Hannah’s sister. Wes is on a downward spiral and Joe Arden did an outstanding job depicting his struggles and his downfall. I also liked his Han voice and he does an amazing job at creating voices for each character. I really appreciate the mental health representation in this book and the way that Wes cares for Han. He only wanted the best for her and was always putting her needs/mental health before his own. Over time, she became his muse and inspiration. They became each other’s reason to create songs/music together and it was beautiful!
Read this if you enjoy:
🎸 Rockstar Romance
🖤 Friends To Lovers
🎸 Emotional Rollercoaster
🖤 Some Angst
March 2, 2018
I did not like Wes Alton at all in Tracing Holland. He intruded in Holland's personal business way too much and acted like her protector when she didn't ask him to do that and did things that were unforgivable. And it created a rift such that he and Luke would likely never be friends and put Holland in a difficult position. But after learning about Wes' upbringing, and then getting to know him further in Viper, I can honestly say that I like Wes. He doesn't make it easy to like him, though. Yet I gave him wide berth when it was obvious to me that he had no one in his corner to back him up, not even Holland anymore, and yet he gave up a lot to be a part of Tracing Holland. He's used to fighting his way through everything and standing up on his own. At some point, that has got to be exhausting. Not to mention that Wes is unapologetic about his behavior and actions, so he's not even all that nice. When he cares about someone, he does go all in, even if it's not in the best of ways and winds up hurting that person. So watching Wes make blunder after blunder is rather painful, because he digs himself deeper into the hole and he knows this. But yet he keeps going back for more in a self-destructive vicious cycle. And while I really wanted him to get his act together because he was doing such a poor job of it on his own, I also hoped that someone would extend a hand and help the guy out. I empathized with him because everyone turned their backs on him (some of which I could understand, but others not so much). And the heroine, who was introduced in the previous book, is actually the perfect match for him because she challenges him in ways that forces him to re-examine himself. Still, Wes being Wes has to fall quite a bit before he owns up to his mistakes and confronts his issues head on and the consequences do not spare him any mercy. And while I'm still not a fan of Holland, I might like her a fraction more than I did before, but that wasn't until the very end of the book. The fact that she didn't give Wes any drama about the new love in his life definitely makes her cooler. I might even like Wes more than Luke and that's quite a feat given what I thought of him in the beginning.
September 23, 2017
Viper is the 3rd Book in the NSB Series. The 1st Book I read by Alyson Santos was NIGHT SHIFTS BLACK, and I became a fan of her writing. The 2nd Book of the series is TRACING HOLLAND, and is were Viper's story follows, but can be read as a standalone.
Wes Altan had everything and was living the dream. But he messed up big time, and before his 30th birthday lost it all. He was a troubled soul who had hit rock-bottom. His life now centered around drink and one-night stands. He had been a rock star in the famous band Tracing Holland. Everything about their music had been about the history between Wes and his co-writer Holland Drake. He felt they were soulmates and had an unbreakable bond, or so he thought. Enter Luke Craven, the front man of the famous band Night Shifts Black. Pushing Wes to be the odd man out.
Now Wes was living the life of heavy drinking and one-night pick-ups at the bar. The night he met Miranda Rivenier was the night he found out quickly, that you can't get away with only one-night with some woman. And when he thought his life couldn't get any more miserable, Miranda manages to connive to make it more complicated.
The only good thing to happen to him, was when a childhood friend ended up with a suitcase at his front door. She too had felt that she had reached the end of her rope, and needed a safe place to hide. Her name was Hannah Drake. Just to make his life more complicated, she was the younger sister of his ex-band-mate Holland Drake. Wes had a protective side, and saw Hannah as his own fallen angel. Wes saw her as a little sister. But Hannah didn't see him as a big brother. She saw him as a man she always had a crush on, and planned to act on it. More complications for poor Wes and more enjoyable reading for us.
Please note this series addresses the issues of depression and suicide, but in a compassionate and realistic manner.
Wes Altan had everything and was living the dream. But he messed up big time, and before his 30th birthday lost it all. He was a troubled soul who had hit rock-bottom. His life now centered around drink and one-night stands. He had been a rock star in the famous band Tracing Holland. Everything about their music had been about the history between Wes and his co-writer Holland Drake. He felt they were soulmates and had an unbreakable bond, or so he thought. Enter Luke Craven, the front man of the famous band Night Shifts Black. Pushing Wes to be the odd man out.
Now Wes was living the life of heavy drinking and one-night pick-ups at the bar. The night he met Miranda Rivenier was the night he found out quickly, that you can't get away with only one-night with some woman. And when he thought his life couldn't get any more miserable, Miranda manages to connive to make it more complicated.
The only good thing to happen to him, was when a childhood friend ended up with a suitcase at his front door. She too had felt that she had reached the end of her rope, and needed a safe place to hide. Her name was Hannah Drake. Just to make his life more complicated, she was the younger sister of his ex-band-mate Holland Drake. Wes had a protective side, and saw Hannah as his own fallen angel. Wes saw her as a little sister. But Hannah didn't see him as a big brother. She saw him as a man she always had a crush on, and planned to act on it. More complications for poor Wes and more enjoyable reading for us.
Please note this series addresses the issues of depression and suicide, but in a compassionate and realistic manner.
September 21, 2017
If you have read the previous books in the series you will be aware of the train wreck that is Wes, overprotective of Holland, and self destructive in the extreme you would never imagine that you could feel anything but animosity for this character, but you will!
Wes falls into the abyss of drink and women after destroying his relationship with his bandmates, he has hit rock bottom and seems unwilling to drag himself back up. in this book we see his beautiful soul, his loyalty and sensitivity.
Hannah, Holland's feisty younger sister is struggling with her own issues however, she has different coping methods. It is hard to watch her spiral down, and how she stifles her personality to try and combat the spiral.
Watching as they both navigate their own battles with depression, whilst also attempting to support one another, and their vastly differing family support systems is both enlightening and heartbreaking. Alyson deals with this subject in a very real, open and honest way, no glossing over the darkness and debilitating power that depression has.
The bond between these two is uplifting, they understand each other, the banter between them is snappy and entertaining. Their love is grown from friendship and they genuinely want the best for each other.
I cant recommend this book enough, Alyson has all the words!
Wes falls into the abyss of drink and women after destroying his relationship with his bandmates, he has hit rock bottom and seems unwilling to drag himself back up. in this book we see his beautiful soul, his loyalty and sensitivity.
Hannah, Holland's feisty younger sister is struggling with her own issues however, she has different coping methods. It is hard to watch her spiral down, and how she stifles her personality to try and combat the spiral.
Watching as they both navigate their own battles with depression, whilst also attempting to support one another, and their vastly differing family support systems is both enlightening and heartbreaking. Alyson deals with this subject in a very real, open and honest way, no glossing over the darkness and debilitating power that depression has.
The bond between these two is uplifting, they understand each other, the banter between them is snappy and entertaining. Their love is grown from friendship and they genuinely want the best for each other.
I cant recommend this book enough, Alyson has all the words!
March 17, 2019
Wow, what a revelation Viper turned out to be, like I was not expecting it to be such a strong page turner, but I have to say Alyson truly managed to turn the Villain into the Hero so smoothly, that I’d forgotten just how much I disliked Wes, until I was literally swooning over him..l I KNOW..Fickle much lol.
Wes really did have a bad reputation from Tracing Holland & as much as I knew he would have a story, I did question if I could warm to this man, let alone turn into a fan of his. I should have expected Alyson to have some hidden magic up her sleeve though, for Wes truly did turn I into something special.
I loved everything about his & Hannah’s journey. I loved their friendship, the harsh reality of doing the right thing whatever the cost, to help someone who means the world. It was gritty, sad & uplifting from start to finish. The feels were on point, the emotions flowed & come the end I couldn’t help but love a man I once wanted to punch. That’s quality writing at its best :)
Wes really did have a bad reputation from Tracing Holland & as much as I knew he would have a story, I did question if I could warm to this man, let alone turn into a fan of his. I should have expected Alyson to have some hidden magic up her sleeve though, for Wes truly did turn I into something special.
I loved everything about his & Hannah’s journey. I loved their friendship, the harsh reality of doing the right thing whatever the cost, to help someone who means the world. It was gritty, sad & uplifting from start to finish. The feels were on point, the emotions flowed & come the end I couldn’t help but love a man I once wanted to punch. That’s quality writing at its best :)
September 11, 2017
Well holy crap Wes you have some horrible parents! Always being the outcast in his own family, he should be used to be being treated the way he is. It shouldn't have came as a surprise to him. It definitely came as a shock to me though! After reading Tracing Holland I knew I needed Wes's story!
The words to the song "viper" literally gave me goosebumps!
Geez Wes you sure do dig yourself some deep holes don't you? He needs all the help that he can get and he gets it from an unexpected person. Will she be able to show him that he has a good heart and can do what he sets out to do? Will she be able to pull him out of his destructive behavior and show him what's been right in front of him all along?
They're both struggling, are they what each other needs or is this just another mistake on Wes's part?
My heart hurt for these two, felt so many emotions!!! Another fantastic book in this series!!!
The words to the song "viper" literally gave me goosebumps!
Geez Wes you sure do dig yourself some deep holes don't you? He needs all the help that he can get and he gets it from an unexpected person. Will she be able to show him that he has a good heart and can do what he sets out to do? Will she be able to pull him out of his destructive behavior and show him what's been right in front of him all along?
They're both struggling, are they what each other needs or is this just another mistake on Wes's part?
My heart hurt for these two, felt so many emotions!!! Another fantastic book in this series!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews