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Brazen Bulls MC #4
Blaze
Tulsa, Oklahoma, 1998
Simon Spellman isn’t a native Oklahoman. He’s a city boy, born and raised in Chicago, but he’s lived in Tulsa, and worn a Brazen Bull on his back, for years. Tulsa is his home, and the Bulls his family—the only one he claims, and the only one he wants. As far as he’s concerned, life as a Bull is too risky, and the club too demanding, to make room for anyone else.
Especially now, while the Brazen Bulls MC stands on the brink of war, smack in the middle of their hometown.
Debra Wesson has been part of the Bulls family since her younger brother first put on a kutte. She’s known Simon for years; since a crisis threw them together a couple years back, she’s known him intimately. They are perfectly compatible, both adventurous in bed and neither interested in a relationship. They’ve enjoyed each other and kept their hookups a secret from her volatile brother and everyone else.
Until they realize that friends with benefits has become something much deeper, despite their guards against it, and they’re forced to contend with what’s real between them.
But it’s dangerous to be a Bull, or to love one, right now, as the conflict with the Street Hounds finds its flashpoint. With the enemy standing just on the other side of town, there’s no safe place to be.
When war hits home, everything that matters is in the line of fire.
Note: explicit sex and violence.
Simon Spellman isn’t a native Oklahoman. He’s a city boy, born and raised in Chicago, but he’s lived in Tulsa, and worn a Brazen Bull on his back, for years. Tulsa is his home, and the Bulls his family—the only one he claims, and the only one he wants. As far as he’s concerned, life as a Bull is too risky, and the club too demanding, to make room for anyone else.
Especially now, while the Brazen Bulls MC stands on the brink of war, smack in the middle of their hometown.
Debra Wesson has been part of the Bulls family since her younger brother first put on a kutte. She’s known Simon for years; since a crisis threw them together a couple years back, she’s known him intimately. They are perfectly compatible, both adventurous in bed and neither interested in a relationship. They’ve enjoyed each other and kept their hookups a secret from her volatile brother and everyone else.
Until they realize that friends with benefits has become something much deeper, despite their guards against it, and they’re forced to contend with what’s real between them.
But it’s dangerous to be a Bull, or to love one, right now, as the conflict with the Street Hounds finds its flashpoint. With the enemy standing just on the other side of town, there’s no safe place to be.
When war hits home, everything that matters is in the line of fire.
Note: explicit sex and violence.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 2, 2017
53 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Susan Fanetti
84 books1,418 followersI was born and raised in the Midwest, but I was transplanted into the dusty soil of Northern California and have apparently taken root there. An inveterate geek and gamer, I am a fan of many things considered pop culture and maybe even lowbrow.
As a reader, my favorite genres are science fiction and fantasy, but as a writer, I've found my home in romance--or perhaps it's better to say simply "love stories." I have a yen to try other genres, too, at some point, but for now my muse wants to tell stories about lovers and families.
I write for the joy of it, and I write stories that I want to read. If others like them, too, that's just the cherry on top. I’m not interested in rules and formulae. I follow my muse and my characters and let them take me where they want to go, wherever that might be. I like big emotions, dark and light.
I like complicated characters with flaws and weaknesses as well as strengths, and I like each character’s strengths and weaknesses to be different from those of other characters. I’m much more concerned that my characters be interesting and diverse than that they be widely considered to be likable. I try to create people, not types.
Likewise, I want my stories each to be distinct from the others. Once I’ve told a story, I don’t want to tell it again. So even within a series, one of my books might be very different from the next. Some might be very dark, others equally mild.
That isn’t to say there aren’t trends and recurrences in my work. I’m drawn to certain themes and settings, and my muse has her favorite toys and tools. But I guard against those tendencies becoming a formula.
Find my blog at www.susanfanetti.com
Find my FB author page: https://www.facebook.com/authorsusanf...
A note: I don't spend much time here on Goodreads. I try not to read any reviews of my own work. Besides, this is a site for readers, but since I write at a fairly manic pace, and read and edit for other writers, I don't have much time to read recreationally. Mainly, I log on to update my info. So if you message me here, it might be a while before I see it.
As a reader, my favorite genres are science fiction and fantasy, but as a writer, I've found my home in romance--or perhaps it's better to say simply "love stories." I have a yen to try other genres, too, at some point, but for now my muse wants to tell stories about lovers and families.
I write for the joy of it, and I write stories that I want to read. If others like them, too, that's just the cherry on top. I’m not interested in rules and formulae. I follow my muse and my characters and let them take me where they want to go, wherever that might be. I like big emotions, dark and light.
I like complicated characters with flaws and weaknesses as well as strengths, and I like each character’s strengths and weaknesses to be different from those of other characters. I’m much more concerned that my characters be interesting and diverse than that they be widely considered to be likable. I try to create people, not types.
Likewise, I want my stories each to be distinct from the others. Once I’ve told a story, I don’t want to tell it again. So even within a series, one of my books might be very different from the next. Some might be very dark, others equally mild.
That isn’t to say there aren’t trends and recurrences in my work. I’m drawn to certain themes and settings, and my muse has her favorite toys and tools. But I guard against those tendencies becoming a formula.
Find my blog at www.susanfanetti.com
Find my FB author page: https://www.facebook.com/authorsusanf...
A note: I don't spend much time here on Goodreads. I try not to read any reviews of my own work. Besides, this is a site for readers, but since I write at a fairly manic pace, and read and edit for other writers, I don't have much time to read recreationally. Mainly, I log on to update my info. So if you message me here, it might be a while before I see it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
January 12, 2022
_________________
CITY BOY MEETS COUNTRY GIRL
_________________
Who doesn't already love this pairing?! There's something about when the lives of city and country people collide that I always enjoy. It probably started with my enjoyment of Aesop's Fables: the Town Mouse and the Country Mouse. Two distinctly different worlds trying to meld together. Our city guy, Simon, is in his 30's and has no desire to settle down. Our country girl, Deb, is already in her 30's. When she was in her 20's she moved back home to take care of her dad and help with the farm after a tragedy hit their family and she never left.
_________________
FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS
_________________
Simon and Deb have known each other because Gunner is Deb's younger brother. He's also an 'mc brother' to Simon. To keep from complicating the situation they keep their "friends with benefits" relationship under wraps. No one is the wiser about them. Basically they just keep things casual with a "hi" if they see each other outside of the bedroom.
_________________
BRAZEN BULLS
_________________
The Bulls have trouble knocking at their front door. The mc is in the middle of a war with their rivals and things are very heated. They're going to need to find the strength to emerge from the ashes to be able to rise up stronger. I spent a lot of time say, "Wow!" because of what was happening to them. Some moments were so intense that I had to take a mental break because I was too nervous to flip the page.
BLAZE is the fourth book in Brazen Bulls MC series. You can read this series without having read any of the other MC series Ms. Fanetti has written, so far. This series is set back, in time, before her other series … in the 90’s. If you love the thrill of intense scenes mixed with strong characters than this series is for you! ACTUALLY, ALL of Ms. Fanetti's books are for you. She holds no punches in giving the combo of - sweet & savory. Just when you think things are all well and dandy the ride you're on shoots forward in a millisecond and you're in the most intense scene that has you reading with your hands over your eyes.
READ THIS SERIES
✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
RELEASE DATE:December 2, 2017
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
Follow Foxy Blogs at: Blog ♥ Twitter ♥ Instagram ♥ Facebook
CITY BOY MEETS COUNTRY GIRL
_________________
Who doesn't already love this pairing?! There's something about when the lives of city and country people collide that I always enjoy. It probably started with my enjoyment of Aesop's Fables: the Town Mouse and the Country Mouse. Two distinctly different worlds trying to meld together. Our city guy, Simon, is in his 30's and has no desire to settle down. Our country girl, Deb, is already in her 30's. When she was in her 20's she moved back home to take care of her dad and help with the farm after a tragedy hit their family and she never left.
_________________
FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS
_________________
Simon and Deb have known each other because Gunner is Deb's younger brother. He's also an 'mc brother' to Simon. To keep from complicating the situation they keep their "friends with benefits" relationship under wraps. No one is the wiser about them. Basically they just keep things casual with a "hi" if they see each other outside of the bedroom.
_________________
BRAZEN BULLS
_________________
The Bulls have trouble knocking at their front door. The mc is in the middle of a war with their rivals and things are very heated. They're going to need to find the strength to emerge from the ashes to be able to rise up stronger. I spent a lot of time say, "Wow!" because of what was happening to them. Some moments were so intense that I had to take a mental break because I was too nervous to flip the page.
BLAZE is the fourth book in Brazen Bulls MC series. You can read this series without having read any of the other MC series Ms. Fanetti has written, so far. This series is set back, in time, before her other series … in the 90’s. If you love the thrill of intense scenes mixed with strong characters than this series is for you! ACTUALLY, ALL of Ms. Fanetti's books are for you. She holds no punches in giving the combo of - sweet & savory. Just when you think things are all well and dandy the ride you're on shoots forward in a millisecond and you're in the most intense scene that has you reading with your hands over your eyes.
READ THIS SERIES
✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
RELEASE DATE:December 2, 2017
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
Follow Foxy Blogs at: Blog ♥ Twitter ♥ Instagram ♥ Facebook
December 4, 2017
I was extremely disturbed by the racism in this book. This is going to be spoilery, so stop now if you don't want to know.
As this is an MC book, supposedly these men are tied by 'bonds deeper than blood'. Yet when when one of the long term members has a non-white girlfriend who has family ties in the territory of another non-white gang controlled area the Bulls club is warring with, she is pushed outside of the protection of the club - without ANY evidence that she is connected with the opposing gang.
This same club who is ostensibly all about protecting their women and children and all about each member being free to live by non conformist rules.
When that non-white woman is tortured with a blow torch and beaten and assaulted and finally shot in front of the Bull's clubhouse, her Bull lover quite rightly loses his control, calls out his 'brothers', then shoots and kills a few that have the gall to ask, "Why would they do this to one of their own?"
The main male lead in this book then shoots the man who just lost his lover and in order to protect the Bulls, they make the dead woman out to be a prostitute and the dead Bull member to be a jealous and possessive killer - they pin the blame for the crimes on the victims to escape prosecution. So much for 'brotherhood and loyalty'. The male lead has one tiny moment of questioning his choice, but then realizes that he did the right thing and continues on with a clear conscience.
Then two white women, one the main female lead and a past female lead, are kidnapped and tied up and knocked around a bit by the bad guys, no one gets blowtorched or raped - just felt up and videotaped and of course the Bull's manage to save the ladies in time. In fact they actually go home a few hours after getting checked out in hospital.
I realize that is a fictional world, with fictional characters and that this is a 'gritty mc series'. But it is also sold as a romance series. I find it impossible to root for a couple's romantic HEA when I don't think they deserve one, as they fall into the place in my mind where they should be stopped before they breed.
In the timeless question "Do you have to like a character to enjoy a book?" I have to answer yes, especially in a romance. It does not bode well for my enjoyment of a fictional universe when I think the only way to make that universe a better place is with the utter annihilation by meteor strike and flamethrower of every single major character that features in it and their clubhouse.
I think when I find myself praying for the destruction of all the main characters, I should probably excuse myself from any further interaction with them.
One other thing that greatly disturbs me is that in the very first book of this series there was an author's note apologizing for any distress or trauma caused by the use of the Oklahoma City Bombing as a plot device. There was no such note of that type in this one, and I wonder at the lack of it and marvel at the condescension.
As this is an MC book, supposedly these men are tied by 'bonds deeper than blood'. Yet when when one of the long term members has a non-white girlfriend who has family ties in the territory of another non-white gang controlled area the Bulls club is warring with, she is pushed outside of the protection of the club - without ANY evidence that she is connected with the opposing gang.
This same club who is ostensibly all about protecting their women and children and all about each member being free to live by non conformist rules.
When that non-white woman is tortured with a blow torch and beaten and assaulted and finally shot in front of the Bull's clubhouse, her Bull lover quite rightly loses his control, calls out his 'brothers', then shoots and kills a few that have the gall to ask, "Why would they do this to one of their own?"
The main male lead in this book then shoots the man who just lost his lover and in order to protect the Bulls, they make the dead woman out to be a prostitute and the dead Bull member to be a jealous and possessive killer - they pin the blame for the crimes on the victims to escape prosecution. So much for 'brotherhood and loyalty'. The male lead has one tiny moment of questioning his choice, but then realizes that he did the right thing and continues on with a clear conscience.
Then two white women, one the main female lead and a past female lead, are kidnapped and tied up and knocked around a bit by the bad guys, no one gets blowtorched or raped - just felt up and videotaped and of course the Bull's manage to save the ladies in time. In fact they actually go home a few hours after getting checked out in hospital.
I realize that is a fictional world, with fictional characters and that this is a 'gritty mc series'. But it is also sold as a romance series. I find it impossible to root for a couple's romantic HEA when I don't think they deserve one, as they fall into the place in my mind where they should be stopped before they breed.
In the timeless question "Do you have to like a character to enjoy a book?" I have to answer yes, especially in a romance. It does not bode well for my enjoyment of a fictional universe when I think the only way to make that universe a better place is with the utter annihilation by meteor strike and flamethrower of every single major character that features in it and their clubhouse.
I think when I find myself praying for the destruction of all the main characters, I should probably excuse myself from any further interaction with them.
One other thing that greatly disturbs me is that in the very first book of this series there was an author's note apologizing for any distress or trauma caused by the use of the Oklahoma City Bombing as a plot device. There was no such note of that type in this one, and I wonder at the lack of it and marvel at the condescension.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2019
Blaze is the perfect title for this fourth book of the Brazen Bulls series. The body count dropped. I didn’t see it coming but I could easily understand the reason behind it since it furthered the storyline for the leading characters.
I enjoyed Simon and Deb’s story. Friends with benefits that turned into more. Add to the story that Deb’s little brother also a Bull wouldn’t be happy about it especially not since Deb and Simon had kept it a secret for over a year.
Deb and Simon worked amazingly together as a couple and I especially enjoyed seeing them vulnerable with one another. When you’re with a Bull you’re life is in jeopardy and both Simon and Deb are well aware of that but their attraction and feelings trumped and overruled their fears. Blaze has more action, violence and deaths than any previous books in the series. I was entertained from start to finish. Phew. What a ride indeed.
4 No Regrets Stars
I enjoyed Simon and Deb’s story. Friends with benefits that turned into more. Add to the story that Deb’s little brother also a Bull wouldn’t be happy about it especially not since Deb and Simon had kept it a secret for over a year.
Deb and Simon worked amazingly together as a couple and I especially enjoyed seeing them vulnerable with one another. When you’re with a Bull you’re life is in jeopardy and both Simon and Deb are well aware of that but their attraction and feelings trumped and overruled their fears. Blaze has more action, violence and deaths than any previous books in the series. I was entertained from start to finish. Phew. What a ride indeed.
4 No Regrets Stars
December 6, 2017
I'm wrapping up and dayuuuuuum already feeling that somberness of a mind blowing good story being already over. In that regard the depression is setting in.....I'm not ready.
Everything Susan Fanetti writes is gold and Blazes is no exception. Five smokin stars. I’d personally like to give ten for her extraordinary talents….but Goodreads would never permit this. So five it is!
I’d liked to say Simon & Deb’s story is my all time favorite. Maybe for now it is until Susan releases something else lol.
Neither one was looking for love. Deb living on the farm away from the MC and Simon being in the club life just as thick as could be. But shit always happens and nothing ever goes as planned, what's that old saying “the best intentions are paved in gold? Wanna know more….sure you do, my advice…..buy the book! Happy reading MC lovers, you won’t regret this read!
June 23, 2020
June 2020 - I love Simon and Deb. There's a level of honesty and maturity in their blossoming relationship that's based on unyielding trust and understanding. This book is not short on chaos for the club and it's family with the plot moving ever forward in awesome and scary ways. Through all of that the love story cultivated between Simon and Deb and who they are as people is truly moving.
5+ "I promise." Stars
Susan Fanetti delivers yet again with Blaze. The fourth installment of the Brazen Bulls MC series gives readers two new, dynamic characters and a continuation of her action packed MC plot.
With each new Fanetti story we get real life emotions in a perfectly constructed fictional setting and this book follows that same great pattern. It's a big book in terms of club events. It moves forward in some unexpected yet expected ways for the Bulls. Simultaneously some big events are happening in the Wesson family outside of the club as Simon and Deb work towards each other in a momentous fashion. I love the solidarity of their connection and the contentment they find with each other. I love that in the upheaval of real life these two find a way to be the most connected. The mutual, unwavering respect the hold for each other provides a deep romance between the two.
As per usual, Fanetti's absolute conviction of strong women shines through the story. Deb's life is simple but the amount of strength in her character and faith in her heart are unshakable. She's a pillar of fortitude and love. There's something quite unique about this heroine and I think it stems from the simplicity of her values and the power of her desires. She's an admirable character I felt strongly connected to throughout the time I spent with her. Her reserve and loyalty to her family, her unquestioning belief in her man's choices, and her compelling independence make her so easy to relate to in ways that make you want to better yourself. And additionally there's qualities to be learned from Deb's straightforward understanding of the world she lives in, something organic and pure to how she sees herself. I loved everything about this heroine.
And on the other side of the same coin, Simon Spellman is such an intriguing male lead. He's different from the other Bulls in many ways. Seemingly more intrinsically astute than his brothers, Simon finds solace he never knew he needed with Deb. How he sees her and the subtleties of goodness she brings to his life I found so romantic. There's amount of overdone affection from him but his quiet adoration and admiration of her makes me believe in them both that much more. His loyalty to his club and his brothers also infallible. He's a brute force of beautiful nature to be added among the great Fanetti men.
This series has become a new favorite of mine the deeper we get into the lives of each Brazen Bull and how those lives and choices effect the club as a whole. Susan Fanetti precisely constructed a story of an MC very different than any before. She's taken the fundamental elements that make up an outlaw MC to create a world in which we love to spend time. By adding new, complex characters with each book she entrenches us in Tulsa. Making no apology, we get hardcore MC real life romance in an un-put-downable book. Blaze is as hot as it sounds, a vital part to the series, and a story with characters to fall in love with.
My 5 star reviews for the Brazen Bulls MC series:
Book One: Crash
Book Two: Twist
Book Three: Slam
**Blaze generously provided in exchange for an honest review.**
5+ "I promise." Stars
Susan Fanetti delivers yet again with Blaze. The fourth installment of the Brazen Bulls MC series gives readers two new, dynamic characters and a continuation of her action packed MC plot.
With each new Fanetti story we get real life emotions in a perfectly constructed fictional setting and this book follows that same great pattern. It's a big book in terms of club events. It moves forward in some unexpected yet expected ways for the Bulls. Simultaneously some big events are happening in the Wesson family outside of the club as Simon and Deb work towards each other in a momentous fashion. I love the solidarity of their connection and the contentment they find with each other. I love that in the upheaval of real life these two find a way to be the most connected. The mutual, unwavering respect the hold for each other provides a deep romance between the two.
As per usual, Fanetti's absolute conviction of strong women shines through the story. Deb's life is simple but the amount of strength in her character and faith in her heart are unshakable. She's a pillar of fortitude and love. There's something quite unique about this heroine and I think it stems from the simplicity of her values and the power of her desires. She's an admirable character I felt strongly connected to throughout the time I spent with her. Her reserve and loyalty to her family, her unquestioning belief in her man's choices, and her compelling independence make her so easy to relate to in ways that make you want to better yourself. And additionally there's qualities to be learned from Deb's straightforward understanding of the world she lives in, something organic and pure to how she sees herself. I loved everything about this heroine.
And on the other side of the same coin, Simon Spellman is such an intriguing male lead. He's different from the other Bulls in many ways. Seemingly more intrinsically astute than his brothers, Simon finds solace he never knew he needed with Deb. How he sees her and the subtleties of goodness she brings to his life I found so romantic. There's amount of overdone affection from him but his quiet adoration and admiration of her makes me believe in them both that much more. His loyalty to his club and his brothers also infallible. He's a brute force of beautiful nature to be added among the great Fanetti men.
This series has become a new favorite of mine the deeper we get into the lives of each Brazen Bull and how those lives and choices effect the club as a whole. Susan Fanetti precisely constructed a story of an MC very different than any before. She's taken the fundamental elements that make up an outlaw MC to create a world in which we love to spend time. By adding new, complex characters with each book she entrenches us in Tulsa. Making no apology, we get hardcore MC real life romance in an un-put-downable book. Blaze is as hot as it sounds, a vital part to the series, and a story with characters to fall in love with.
My 5 star reviews for the Brazen Bulls MC series:
Book One: Crash
Book Two: Twist
Book Three: Slam
**Blaze generously provided in exchange for an honest review.**
December 13, 2017
Another fantastic book by Susan Fanetti with a lot of WTF moments. Warning: ⚠️ Let’s just say reading this in public around the 70% mark is not recommended. I happened to blurt out “WTF!” in the middle of a crowded downtown Chicago restaurant while eating my lunch. The glares from others let me know anyone within earshot appreciated my outburst of "What the fu**!!!!" with their salads.
December 12, 2017
Definitely the best book so far in the Brazen Bulls MC series). Fanetti is back to what she does best in Blaze incorporating the violent world of the outlaw MC with the deep feelings and emotions of the men who choose to live their life this way and the ramifications for the women and family who love them.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
April 29, 2022
3 stars
Hmm, this wasn’t a favourite from the series.
Honestly, I just simply didn’t care much for or like the story of this couple. They were fine. They apparently were good together and all that but I don’t know.. they just weren’t giving main character vibes.
Onto the next.
Hmm, this wasn’t a favourite from the series.
Honestly, I just simply didn’t care much for or like the story of this couple. They were fine. They apparently were good together and all that but I don’t know.. they just weren’t giving main character vibes.
Onto the next.
December 7, 2017
Another good addition to this series. I have enjoyed all of the books in this series but not quite as much as I did the Signal Bend series. I would recommend that the books in this series be read in order to understand the back story and the characters.
Fanetti, in her usual stellar way of writing, builds a world with flawed characters who grab a hold of you and drag you into their minds and their lives. Simon and Debra made a good couple. Both had reached their 30's without ever having had a romantic relationship. Both started the relationship with a solid understanding that it would only be friends with benefits and they would keep it secret. But their feelings changed, both tried to fight the changes but finally realized they needed each other for things other than sex.
Another usual happening is the violence because of the ongoing rivalries. The constant theme again for me was the love of family (not always blood) and how Debra, Simon, Max and Leah become their own family unit.
I highly recommend this series.
Fanetti, in her usual stellar way of writing, builds a world with flawed characters who grab a hold of you and drag you into their minds and their lives. Simon and Debra made a good couple. Both had reached their 30's without ever having had a romantic relationship. Both started the relationship with a solid understanding that it would only be friends with benefits and they would keep it secret. But their feelings changed, both tried to fight the changes but finally realized they needed each other for things other than sex.
Another usual happening is the violence because of the ongoing rivalries. The constant theme again for me was the love of family (not always blood) and how Debra, Simon, Max and Leah become their own family unit.
I highly recommend this series.
December 2, 2017
Blaze was brilliant!
I loved the couple, Simon and Deb. A hot outlaw biker and practical farmgirl (woman, is apter). Their love story begins as a "secret friends with benefits" arrangement. They've known each other for years before hooking up. Deb's volatile brother Gunner and Simon are Brazen Bulls, and he would not be happy to find out his club brother is putting it to his sister. Both are in their 30's, strong, independent, comfortable with the lives they've created. Neither is looking for love or the compromises that come with it. Realizing their feelings for each other are more profound, leads to a mutual decision to end things. Trouble is brewing with the club, and this reinforces Simon's reasoning. Deb, in her practicality, is relieved, until she starts to understand what she's thrown away, real love, with a man who returns that love. Their reconciliation, Simon's comeuppance with Gunner and the club for lying to a brother are only some of the adversities Deb and Simon face.
The plot and action of this book have me deeply invested in the continuing saga of the Brazen Bulls. The choreography of the clubhouse scene that changes the club forever was distressingly fluid. Susan Fanetti is the Balanchine of crime-family fiction. I haven't been as shocked at how something played out since Gemma stabbed Tara in the head with a fork on SOA. I was aghast. My heart was in tatters.
The subtext of racism was handled deftly and made the point more efficiently than if it had been a prominent dialogue throughout the book. Having racial attitudes be the catalyst for the Bulls internal tragedy packed a punch. It's subtle until it catches Simon, but not Griffin, by surprise. I'm in awe of the writing from the implosion scene. It's one of the best views (action/reaction, cohesive, stunning, happening in a flash of time) I've ever read or watched. Like an episode of the Sopranos.
Overall, Blaze is a staggeringly good book. The centerpiece of the novel is Simon and Deb's relationship, two likable, mature characters that have blazing hot sex, and a deep love for each other. Surrounding it, fast-paced forward movement of the series story arc, devastatingly good storytelling and a big dose of "the Fanetti treatment" made Blaze a 10 star read for me.
I loved the couple, Simon and Deb. A hot outlaw biker and practical farmgirl (woman, is apter). Their love story begins as a "secret friends with benefits" arrangement. They've known each other for years before hooking up. Deb's volatile brother Gunner and Simon are Brazen Bulls, and he would not be happy to find out his club brother is putting it to his sister. Both are in their 30's, strong, independent, comfortable with the lives they've created. Neither is looking for love or the compromises that come with it. Realizing their feelings for each other are more profound, leads to a mutual decision to end things. Trouble is brewing with the club, and this reinforces Simon's reasoning. Deb, in her practicality, is relieved, until she starts to understand what she's thrown away, real love, with a man who returns that love. Their reconciliation, Simon's comeuppance with Gunner and the club for lying to a brother are only some of the adversities Deb and Simon face.
The plot and action of this book have me deeply invested in the continuing saga of the Brazen Bulls. The choreography of the clubhouse scene that changes the club forever was distressingly fluid. Susan Fanetti is the Balanchine of crime-family fiction. I haven't been as shocked at how something played out since Gemma stabbed Tara in the head with a fork on SOA. I was aghast. My heart was in tatters.
The subtext of racism was handled deftly and made the point more efficiently than if it had been a prominent dialogue throughout the book. Having racial attitudes be the catalyst for the Bulls internal tragedy packed a punch. It's subtle until it catches Simon, but not Griffin, by surprise. I'm in awe of the writing from the implosion scene. It's one of the best views (action/reaction, cohesive, stunning, happening in a flash of time) I've ever read or watched. Like an episode of the Sopranos.
Overall, Blaze is a staggeringly good book. The centerpiece of the novel is Simon and Deb's relationship, two likable, mature characters that have blazing hot sex, and a deep love for each other. Surrounding it, fast-paced forward movement of the series story arc, devastatingly good storytelling and a big dose of "the Fanetti treatment" made Blaze a 10 star read for me.
August 20, 2020
Really liked this one. On to the next
December 3, 2017
It starts out slow..I almost gave up on it. Then it got really gritty and finishing us with wonderful HEA. What a long hard ride though. Very biker.
December 23, 2017
Good read
I cannot believe this happened to me again this year. I get hyped up for one of my favorite author’s book, I mean she could write the phone book and I would love it, and I just cannot for the life of me love it.
It was a great story, great character development, interesting plot, hot sex, and lots of MC stuff; I just couldn’t love it. I really did not get into Simon and Deb. They just didn’t do it for me.
It is a good read and I will read the next.
I cannot believe this happened to me again this year. I get hyped up for one of my favorite author’s book, I mean she could write the phone book and I would love it, and I just cannot for the life of me love it.
It was a great story, great character development, interesting plot, hot sex, and lots of MC stuff; I just couldn’t love it. I really did not get into Simon and Deb. They just didn’t do it for me.
It is a good read and I will read the next.
September 4, 2018
This book is definitely my favorite of the series so far. I looked forward to Simon and Deb's story, and it did not disappoint. This story reminded me of how I felt when I first discovered Susan fanetti's Signal Bend series and why I love her writing. Solid writing, characters I like, the family and friends aspect is always there, and she definitely managed to throw in plot lines that I would not have been able to predict.
no-way-in-hell
December 4, 2017Note to self: Read Boogenhagen's review. Explains exactly why I won't read this!!
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
December 6, 2017
If I could give this book ten stars...
Although I cried like a baby because this author is brutally in her violence scenes and in a nerve-racking tensions (she killed so many loved characters in this book it was almost unbearable), I still think she can toss my ass sideway by her stories.
I'm a huge fan.
I just need a long vacation , right about now , to relax after this..
Although I cried like a baby because this author is brutally in her violence scenes and in a nerve-racking tensions (she killed so many loved characters in this book it was almost unbearable), I still think she can toss my ass sideway by her stories.
I'm a huge fan.
I just need a long vacation , right about now , to relax after this..
December 3, 2017
Awesome
This was such a great continuation of the series. The pivotal scene took my breath away. The only reason for the lack of the 5 star rating was the beginning. I felt like she was begrudgingly pining away (even if she didn't understand it) and he was not. The "feelings" he had for her took some convincing for me. I did get there, though. Can't wait for the next book.
This was such a great continuation of the series. The pivotal scene took my breath away. The only reason for the lack of the 5 star rating was the beginning. I felt like she was begrudgingly pining away (even if she didn't understand it) and he was not. The "feelings" he had for her took some convincing for me. I did get there, though. Can't wait for the next book.
September 30, 2024
4.25 STARS
Just wouldn't be a Susan Fanetti series without at least one important character
(or more) being killed off, thereby breaking your heart. Why Susan, why???!!?!
Just wouldn't be a Susan Fanetti series without at least one important character
(or more) being killed off, thereby breaking your heart. Why Susan, why???!!?!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2018
Another action packed, drama filled story with heart stopping moments in this 4th instalment of the Brazen Bulls MC. Simon and Deb rock big time and their tale is a little curly because Deb is Gunner’s sister and from reading Susan’s other MC books, I’ve learned from experience that a biker brother doing the dirty with another brother’s sister is just about good enough to bring on the apocalypse! And Gunner’s short fuse is like a match to a powder keg.
We don’t only have to worry about the backlash of a secret relationship, but Delaney’s club has a few cracks and festering issues that come to a head and the outcome will have you crying in your weeties. There is also the rival MC Hounds that are causing major problems, so there is no shortage of suspense, drama and gut punch incidents. An awesome read!
We don’t only have to worry about the backlash of a secret relationship, but Delaney’s club has a few cracks and festering issues that come to a head and the outcome will have you crying in your weeties. There is also the rival MC Hounds that are causing major problems, so there is no shortage of suspense, drama and gut punch incidents. An awesome read!
December 7, 2017
Blaze review
Susan Fanetti has done it again and written an audience captivating book. Susan's books always carry an element of suspense, romance, hot sex, a bit of, OH NO!!!, and leave you wanting more and sitting on the edge of your seat waiting for her next release. Blaze hit the mark! 5 stars for sure.
Susan Fanetti has done it again and written an audience captivating book. Susan's books always carry an element of suspense, romance, hot sex, a bit of, OH NO!!!, and leave you wanting more and sitting on the edge of your seat waiting for her next release. Blaze hit the mark! 5 stars for sure.
December 8, 2017
Bravo!
Once again Ms Fanetti outdoes herself. Such a brilliant book by a brilliant author. It is a well written and smooth read. All the feels! The Brazen Bulls aren't your "normal" fiction MC. Set realistically in the' 90's, there's several scenes that transport you back to that time. Don't we all remember our first cell phone? I can't recommend these books enough.
Once again Ms Fanetti outdoes herself. Such a brilliant book by a brilliant author. It is a well written and smooth read. All the feels! The Brazen Bulls aren't your "normal" fiction MC. Set realistically in the' 90's, there's several scenes that transport you back to that time. Don't we all remember our first cell phone? I can't recommend these books enough.
December 8, 2017
Well she has done it again ,an excellent book very reminiscent of Signal Bend at its finest ,Drama ,sex ,great story ,heart stopping moments ,sad moments ,set at a time I can relate to.
Racist ,one character is slightly racist but it's part of the overall story ,is the book racist ,not one bit .
Loved this book ,a true five star read .
Racist ,one character is slightly racist but it's part of the overall story ,is the book racist ,not one bit .
Loved this book ,a true five star read .
December 14, 2017
Book Three was a little disappointing with the female heroine, but the story still got 4 stars. This book was a perfect mix of romance and action, Loved Deb and Simon, only complaint is I haven’t got another book to read.
December 5, 2017
Really liked this book.. In depth and kept you tuned it. I’m starting to think the author works as a screenwriter for NCIS too.. No cast member is safe.....
December 5, 2017
Once Again
Beautiful story. We find a mature couple Deb and Simon find love. Susan Fanetti has once again created a set of characters that we fall in love with. I smiled as I was reading and also cried. Great read!
Beautiful story. We find a mature couple Deb and Simon find love. Susan Fanetti has once again created a set of characters that we fall in love with. I smiled as I was reading and also cried. Great read!
December 6, 2017
This is another great book from this fab author. .
August 28, 2018
All the death and destruction and horror.
WOW.
WOW.
December 14, 2017
I have enjoyed each book in this series...it's not Signal Bend, but it's still good. It was nice to see a club sister get her hard-fought HEA. This one seemed to wrap up some issues between the Bulls and their rivals - wonder if any more books are planned for this series?
4 ★
4 ★
February 8, 2018
Well my feelings are all over the place with this one. I enjoyed the love story between Simon and Deb, as unconventional as it began, quite strange for a biker but it was different and that's what made it interesting. I didn't enjoy the blatant racism found in this book especially towards Patrice, a loyal woman to the club, didn't matter who her ties were to, she was always loyal to the Bulls, them leaving her to fend for herself after their colossal mistake was quite frankly so very fucked up. I hate that they regretted their actions when it was to late, I hate their treatment of Griffin after the fact. They treated him like a POS, when again, it was their stupid ass mistake that began that whole chain of events. Things would not have escalated the way they did, people would not have died the way they did if the Bulls would have done their research instead of going in guns blazing or rather fire blazing..as it were.
I feel bad for all of the losses on the Bulls side because every single one of those lost lives was quite simply collateral damage... so fucking sad.
Overall and despite my dislike for many of the Bulls because of their views regarding skin color, this was an interesting, but very sad read...I sure do hope they learned their lesson and think before acting...
I feel bad for all of the losses on the Bulls side because every single one of those lost lives was quite simply collateral damage... so fucking sad.
Overall and despite my dislike for many of the Bulls because of their views regarding skin color, this was an interesting, but very sad read...I sure do hope they learned their lesson and think before acting...
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