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Riggs Brothers #2
Take Me Down
A buttoned-up counsellor. A hot ex-con with secrets. One session that changes everything.
It was supposed to be simple: Let Jace Riggs walk into my counseling office, tell me how he’s adjusting to post-prison life, and let him walk out again. But the first thing I've learned is that nothing is simple with Jace.
He’s tall, muscled, bearded and tatted. He’s smarter than anyone else in the room and ten times more guarded. He’s hiding things that would break any other man to pieces. He’s a loner, a bad boy, and an infamous Riggs brother from the wrong side of the tracks.
He’s a hundred kinds of wrong for me. And even when I’m not his counsellor anymore, I still want to break down his defenses.
Jace has never trusted anyone - until me. He says I’m the only woman he wants close to him. The only woman he’s wanted in his bed - ever. And when he looks at me with that look of white-hot fire, I believe everything he says.
My own secrets could get Jace sent back to prison - or get him killed. And he doesn’t care.
We had so little time. We might not have until morning. But with the fire ignited between Jace and me, forever wouldn’t be long enough…
It was supposed to be simple: Let Jace Riggs walk into my counseling office, tell me how he’s adjusting to post-prison life, and let him walk out again. But the first thing I've learned is that nothing is simple with Jace.
He’s tall, muscled, bearded and tatted. He’s smarter than anyone else in the room and ten times more guarded. He’s hiding things that would break any other man to pieces. He’s a loner, a bad boy, and an infamous Riggs brother from the wrong side of the tracks.
He’s a hundred kinds of wrong for me. And even when I’m not his counsellor anymore, I still want to break down his defenses.
Jace has never trusted anyone - until me. He says I’m the only woman he wants close to him. The only woman he’s wanted in his bed - ever. And when he looks at me with that look of white-hot fire, I believe everything he says.
My own secrets could get Jace sent back to prison - or get him killed. And he doesn’t care.
We had so little time. We might not have until morning. But with the fire ignited between Jace and me, forever wouldn’t be long enough…
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2018
435 people are currently reading
921 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
September 7, 2019
4 stars
The second book in this series was just as good as the first! This is the kind of series I want to binge because it’s so fast paced, and I’m a little sad only the first two are out on audio. Hopefully the next two come out soon because I’d love to listen to them as well!
Take Me Down follows another one of the Riggs brothers, Jace. Jace is the only Riggs brother that did well in school and showed promise. I mean, he was still a Riggs, but he was all different. That all changed when he got locked up for stealing cars. Twenty months in prison will change a guy. But there is so much more to his story than you know.
Tara is a counselor and is assigned to Jace. These two butt heads from the start, but there is a crackling kind of chemistry between them. Jace knows he could never have a girl like Tara, and Tara can’t go there because Jace is her patient. After two sessions, Jace is no longer a client and technically that rule is a technicality. Once Tara finds out that more to the story, she has to talk to Jace and confront him about it.
I loved how Tara never treated Jace badly. Even when she thought he was this felon bad boy. Jace was the Riggs brother I was most excited to read about and his story didn't disappoint. It had some elements in it from the first book, and I’m guessing there will be more tied in in the next two. I hope they are also narrated by Joe Arden and Erin Mallon because they are the dream team and do such a great job.
If you’re looking for an addicting, quick and highly entertaining audio book I recommend picking this up!!
The second book in this series was just as good as the first! This is the kind of series I want to binge because it’s so fast paced, and I’m a little sad only the first two are out on audio. Hopefully the next two come out soon because I’d love to listen to them as well!
Take Me Down follows another one of the Riggs brothers, Jace. Jace is the only Riggs brother that did well in school and showed promise. I mean, he was still a Riggs, but he was all different. That all changed when he got locked up for stealing cars. Twenty months in prison will change a guy. But there is so much more to his story than you know.
Tara is a counselor and is assigned to Jace. These two butt heads from the start, but there is a crackling kind of chemistry between them. Jace knows he could never have a girl like Tara, and Tara can’t go there because Jace is her patient. After two sessions, Jace is no longer a client and technically that rule is a technicality. Once Tara finds out that more to the story, she has to talk to Jace and confront him about it.
I loved how Tara never treated Jace badly. Even when she thought he was this felon bad boy. Jace was the Riggs brother I was most excited to read about and his story didn't disappoint. It had some elements in it from the first book, and I’m guessing there will be more tied in in the next two. I hope they are also narrated by Joe Arden and Erin Mallon because they are the dream team and do such a great job.
If you’re looking for an addicting, quick and highly entertaining audio book I recommend picking this up!!
October 1, 2019
Audiobook review. There’s something about the strong and silent type that just does it for me. Especially the intellectuals that defy the stereotypes. Jace was that and more. He had this air about him that begged for a woman like Tara to try to figure him out. I liked Tara too. She was this buttoned up professional that got flustered by her patient when nobody had ever shaken her up before.
The plot was interesting, especially as it continues an overarching dilemma that seems to be interconnecting the different books in the series. I liked the contrast when experiencing Jace as a hero versus how he appeared in book one.
I found one inconsistency in the plot between book one and two but it wasn’t on something big so I moved on pretty quickly. Overall a solid read.
Erin Mallon and Joe Arden brought these characters to life and did them justice. They are a great combo who, like always, brought their A game.
Complimentary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.
The plot was interesting, especially as it continues an overarching dilemma that seems to be interconnecting the different books in the series. I liked the contrast when experiencing Jace as a hero versus how he appeared in book one.
I found one inconsistency in the plot between book one and two but it wasn’t on something big so I moved on pretty quickly. Overall a solid read.
Erin Mallon and Joe Arden brought these characters to life and did them justice. They are a great combo who, like always, brought their A game.
Complimentary copy received and voluntarily reviewed.
October 18, 2020
Take Me Down is a story of Jace and Tara. Jace is the quite smart guy of thr family. He likes to read, ladies! What more can I say?
The story is short. Novella even. So everything happens fast with less drama. Drama still there but not so much. Some mystery of their father is revealed slowly. More clues.
Again, the only reason I give this book higher stars because of Jace. He likes to read and he is looking for lady who willing to spend time talking! Oh my heart!
4 stars
The story is short. Novella even. So everything happens fast with less drama. Drama still there but not so much. Some mystery of their father is revealed slowly. More clues.
Again, the only reason I give this book higher stars because of Jace. He likes to read and he is looking for lady who willing to spend time talking! Oh my heart!
4 stars
July 8, 2020
4 stars
This is getting better and better with each book!
Oh man, do i I love the quiet, closed off , intelligent and hot type of H! This was Jace and Tara’s story and i love them both. She was the kind of h of my own heart: fierce, smart, direct and loyal.
Its all very fast paced, understandable for a book under 200 pages, and I really wanted more of this two.
The plot continues from the first book and i I assume its gonna be still going in the next books as well.
I see more relationship and bonding forming between the brothers which is great.
Onto the next brother!!
This is getting better and better with each book!
Oh man, do i I love the quiet, closed off , intelligent and hot type of H! This was Jace and Tara’s story and i love them both. She was the kind of h of my own heart: fierce, smart, direct and loyal.
Its all very fast paced, understandable for a book under 200 pages, and I really wanted more of this two.
The plot continues from the first book and i I assume its gonna be still going in the next books as well.
I see more relationship and bonding forming between the brothers which is great.
Onto the next brother!!
July 2, 2020
It wasn't as perfect as the other books by Julie Kriss I've read, but I still admired her character and story building.
I adored Jace. Damn, that's my favourite kind of character: quiet, intelligent and hot. Tara was pretty great too: fierce, loyal and smart. Everything happened very fast and I wanted a bit more there... But I guess that's what you get in under 200 pages.
Yaay for me, all the stories are out now, so I'll just go to the next one.
I adored Jace. Damn, that's my favourite kind of character: quiet, intelligent and hot. Tara was pretty great too: fierce, loyal and smart. Everything happened very fast and I wanted a bit more there... But I guess that's what you get in under 200 pages.
Yaay for me, all the stories are out now, so I'll just go to the next one.
May 26, 2020
4.5 Stars!
I can't get over the fact that these books in this series are under 200 pages & Julie is able to pack so much into them.
The character development is really good being that they are short books.
There is action and a bit of mystery trying to figure stuff out and it has plenty of sexiness going on.
I'm very excited for the next Riggs Brother's story.
I can't get over the fact that these books in this series are under 200 pages & Julie is able to pack so much into them.
The character development is really good being that they are short books.
There is action and a bit of mystery trying to figure stuff out and it has plenty of sexiness going on.
I'm very excited for the next Riggs Brother's story.
July 7, 2020
Alright so I finished Drive Me Wild and I ran straight over to kindle and bought the rest of the series. And as soon as it finished downloading I dove straight into Take Me Down. And I have zero regrets.
I thought I loved Luke but Jace just blew him out of the water and I absolutely call dibs. He was so far from being a bad boy except for the fact of his parentage. Oh and the car theft. But he was just such a misunderstood, misjudged, sweetheart. I liked him from the start but I fell more and more in love with him as his secrets were revealed.
He was so beautiful and had been dealt such a rough hand I just wanted to wrap him up and keep him safe. And I loved that Tara saw through the reputation to his solid gold heart. She was such an awesome match for him and appreciated all his many pieces.
I really love watching the brothers slowly learning how to be a family. And getting the next step in Luke and Emily's story was perfect. This was a great read and now I am off to read Ryan's book.
I thought I loved Luke but Jace just blew him out of the water and I absolutely call dibs. He was so far from being a bad boy except for the fact of his parentage. Oh and the car theft. But he was just such a misunderstood, misjudged, sweetheart. I liked him from the start but I fell more and more in love with him as his secrets were revealed.
He was so beautiful and had been dealt such a rough hand I just wanted to wrap him up and keep him safe. And I loved that Tara saw through the reputation to his solid gold heart. She was such an awesome match for him and appreciated all his many pieces.
I really love watching the brothers slowly learning how to be a family. And getting the next step in Luke and Emily's story was perfect. This was a great read and now I am off to read Ryan's book.
April 13, 2023
I went straight to listening to this book after Drive Me Wild and doing something I don't do often. I'm taking it down a grade. Mind you I still love and recommend it but comparing it to Luke's book it wasn't quite it's equal. Jase wasn't as compelling as Luke which is a bit odd that though he's the least wild of the Riggs brothers, he's a bad boy virgin hero and isn't that a delicious combo? But I think he could have been written a bit better. And I wasn't all that keen on the heroine, Tara. They just didn't have the overwhelming chemistry that Julie Kriss excels in. And the narrator didn't have that bad boy growl that I thought was needed.
Nevertheless I still enjoyed it though when I read it again I'll read it. One thing I did really enjoy though is the growing bond between the brothers. They had a nasty upbringing and as a result they've never been close. But now they're starting to get there.
÷×+-÷×+-÷×+-÷×+-÷×+-÷×+-
And yep, needed my Julie Kriss fix.
~*~*~*~*~
And just finished another reread of this second book in the Riggs Brothers series. I can't seem to get enough of them and when the world around is in such a complete mess, it feels safe to do a reread of a treasured book
*******
I am eagerly - and I mean eagerly waiting for the 4th book in this series and because my cable decided it didn't want to work and I've no internet either, I thought I'd give this one a reread since I enjoyed it so much the first time and the choice was down to reading or housework. I didn't go with the housework. And second read is just as good as the first read and I'm still loving this book. I did just check out when Make me Beg, the 4th book was coming out - I already have it preordered and bummer time, it's not until December. In the meantime though I have all the other Julie Kriss books to reread again so I should be good and ready for Dex!
And my love affair with Julie Kriss continues – her books that is. I’ve never met her or had any contact whatsoever. But I’m mad for her books. This one is the youngest Riggs brother’s story. Jace is the quiet brother, the sensitive brother, the most intelligent brother and the last of the Riggs brothers one would think would end up in jail. We first met Jace in the previous book, Drive me Wild when he had just been released from prison and was still on probation. In this book his probation is up and he’s just moved back home to Westlake Michigan in order to help out with the family garage and he’s living in a small cottage on the family property. Although he’s done with probation, he still has a few meetings to go to with a local counsellor who turns out to be our heroine, Tara.
When they first meet, Jace is kind of a jerk to her. Then because he knows he was, he needs to apologize. Then the next meeting, again he’s kind of a jerk and she just writes up a good report that he’s handling things fine and drops him as a client. She’s upset as she thought they had an unspoken connection, she knows she finds him very attractive.
When Jace finds out about the good report he received, well, he again feels he needs to apologize and explain. He is just as attracted to her as she is to him, but he self-sabotages things. Because of where he’s come from and who his family is, Jace doesn’t think he’s nearly good enough for Tara and he’s sure that once she fully realizes who he is, she won’t want anything to do with him.
Nothing could be further from the truth though. Tara sees very quickly that Jace is special and she underscores every chance she has that he is so much more than his upbringing. Unlike many people she hasn’t grown up in the town and doesn’t have any preconceived notions. But there is something in her past that she doesn’t want to tell him and because of her reluctance to do so, it leads to danger for Jace. And Jace is keeping something from Tara, thinking it might cause her to think less of him. It wouldn’t of course.
I knew from ‘meeting’ Jace in the first book that he was going to be something special. And he is. For some reason I love stories where the hero has been unjustly incarcerated, and while Jace did the things he spent time in prison for, there is good reason behind it and he’s actually heroic in a slightly illegal way. He’s a hero with shades of gray to him. And there’s something that makes him even more irresistible. He’s never really ‘known” a woman if you catch my drift. He considers sex something special and so far he hasn’t met the right woman.
And unlike Emily from the first book, Tara appreciates and has Jace’s back right from the beginning. While Jace is the stand-out in this book, Tara is a good heroine for him. This is another book by Julie Kriss I can see me reading again and again. I may have said it before but if you haven’t tried this author, you simply must. Her books are special and I’m so looking forward to the next Riggs brother story.
Nevertheless I still enjoyed it though when I read it again I'll read it. One thing I did really enjoy though is the growing bond between the brothers. They had a nasty upbringing and as a result they've never been close. But now they're starting to get there.
÷×+-÷×+-÷×+-÷×+-÷×+-÷×+-
And yep, needed my Julie Kriss fix.
~*~*~*~*~
And just finished another reread of this second book in the Riggs Brothers series. I can't seem to get enough of them and when the world around is in such a complete mess, it feels safe to do a reread of a treasured book
*******
I am eagerly - and I mean eagerly waiting for the 4th book in this series and because my cable decided it didn't want to work and I've no internet either, I thought I'd give this one a reread since I enjoyed it so much the first time and the choice was down to reading or housework. I didn't go with the housework. And second read is just as good as the first read and I'm still loving this book. I did just check out when Make me Beg, the 4th book was coming out - I already have it preordered and bummer time, it's not until December. In the meantime though I have all the other Julie Kriss books to reread again so I should be good and ready for Dex!
And my love affair with Julie Kriss continues – her books that is. I’ve never met her or had any contact whatsoever. But I’m mad for her books. This one is the youngest Riggs brother’s story. Jace is the quiet brother, the sensitive brother, the most intelligent brother and the last of the Riggs brothers one would think would end up in jail. We first met Jace in the previous book, Drive me Wild when he had just been released from prison and was still on probation. In this book his probation is up and he’s just moved back home to Westlake Michigan in order to help out with the family garage and he’s living in a small cottage on the family property. Although he’s done with probation, he still has a few meetings to go to with a local counsellor who turns out to be our heroine, Tara.
When they first meet, Jace is kind of a jerk to her. Then because he knows he was, he needs to apologize. Then the next meeting, again he’s kind of a jerk and she just writes up a good report that he’s handling things fine and drops him as a client. She’s upset as she thought they had an unspoken connection, she knows she finds him very attractive.
When Jace finds out about the good report he received, well, he again feels he needs to apologize and explain. He is just as attracted to her as she is to him, but he self-sabotages things. Because of where he’s come from and who his family is, Jace doesn’t think he’s nearly good enough for Tara and he’s sure that once she fully realizes who he is, she won’t want anything to do with him.
Nothing could be further from the truth though. Tara sees very quickly that Jace is special and she underscores every chance she has that he is so much more than his upbringing. Unlike many people she hasn’t grown up in the town and doesn’t have any preconceived notions. But there is something in her past that she doesn’t want to tell him and because of her reluctance to do so, it leads to danger for Jace. And Jace is keeping something from Tara, thinking it might cause her to think less of him. It wouldn’t of course.
I knew from ‘meeting’ Jace in the first book that he was going to be something special. And he is. For some reason I love stories where the hero has been unjustly incarcerated, and while Jace did the things he spent time in prison for, there is good reason behind it and he’s actually heroic in a slightly illegal way. He’s a hero with shades of gray to him. And there’s something that makes him even more irresistible. He’s never really ‘known” a woman if you catch my drift. He considers sex something special and so far he hasn’t met the right woman.
And unlike Emily from the first book, Tara appreciates and has Jace’s back right from the beginning. While Jace is the stand-out in this book, Tara is a good heroine for him. This is another book by Julie Kriss I can see me reading again and again. I may have said it before but if you haven’t tried this author, you simply must. Her books are special and I’m so looking forward to the next Riggs brother story.
January 10, 2022
2 1/2 stars
July 23, 2023
4 Misunderstood Stars
Jace Riggs, the youngest of the Riggs brothers has just finished a 20 month jail term for grand theft auto. Out of all the brothers, he is the one you would never have thought would have done this. Jace is intelligent, quiet and keeps to himself. As part of his early release he is to meet up with a rehabilitation counselor to get the court order lifted so he can get on with his life.
Tara Montgomery is the counselor and all her training is saying something does not add up with Jace. The first meeting does not go well and the second one leaves her wanting to apologize, but is that really the reason she wants to find Jace? Or could it be that she has never been so attracted to a man before?
Jace has a huge secret and so does Tara. What happens when Tara’s secret comes out for revenge and in the process could destroy Jace’s freedom and even his life. The Riggs brothers come together and realize that they are there for one another regardless of past experiences. Jace’s story is fast paced and the characters are very likable. The chemistry between Tara and Jace was magnetic. Looking forward to Ryan and Dex’s books!!
April 7, 2018
I loved this one too.
I read this book veeerrrryyyy slowly. I wanted to savour it. To prolong the inevitable, the end page because the story of Riggs brothers were never dull.
“People aren’t as judgmental as you think.”
“Yes, they are,” Jace countered. “Though we never gave anyone very many reasons to befriend us. Dex beat up half the boys in Westlake, Luke beat up the other half, and Ryan screwed all the girls.”...
This is the story about Jace, the youngest brother. He was the silent and sensitive one. The last person (out of the four) they thought to ever end up in jail.
And I cannot stress enough that Dex, the loose cannon and crazy one is mine.
I read this book veeerrrryyyy slowly. I wanted to savour it. To prolong the inevitable, the end page because the story of Riggs brothers were never dull.
“People aren’t as judgmental as you think.”
“Yes, they are,” Jace countered. “Though we never gave anyone very many reasons to befriend us. Dex beat up half the boys in Westlake, Luke beat up the other half, and Ryan screwed all the girls.”...
This is the story about Jace, the youngest brother. He was the silent and sensitive one. The last person (out of the four) they thought to ever end up in jail.
And I cannot stress enough that Dex, the loose cannon and crazy one is mine.
September 1, 2019
4 Stars / 2 Steam Fans
This second book was better than the first about not repeating information although there was some repeats of descriptions. Jace is the ex-con of the Riggs family but there are secrets surrounding his status. Tara is the counselor assigned to make sure Jace doesn't have any issues reentering society. Jace and Tara bump heads from their first meeting but was it because they didn't get along or was there just that much sexual tension between the two. I enjoyed this section and it makes me want to know more about the last two Riggs brothers. There seems to be a subplot that is continuing through both books that I have read and I think will continue through the last two.
This specific video review will be included in the September 2019 wrap-up.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
This second book was better than the first about not repeating information although there was some repeats of descriptions. Jace is the ex-con of the Riggs family but there are secrets surrounding his status. Tara is the counselor assigned to make sure Jace doesn't have any issues reentering society. Jace and Tara bump heads from their first meeting but was it because they didn't get along or was there just that much sexual tension between the two. I enjoyed this section and it makes me want to know more about the last two Riggs brothers. There seems to be a subplot that is continuing through both books that I have read and I think will continue through the last two.
This specific video review will be included in the September 2019 wrap-up.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
October 6, 2019
I thought I really liked Luke Riggs, but then I listened to Jace's book and now I think I'm going to end up loving them all.
I loved so much about this book. I loved that while this book features a guy who is attending counseling after getting out of jail, and shares a mutual attraction to his counselor, it's done in a tasteful way. I loved that the leading lady Tara was smart and accomplished, she was also compassionate and kind. She saw through the defense Jace put up, and she appreciated him for who he really was.
I loved that the Riggs brothers are showing new sides of themselves and growing their relationship. It helped me connect more with all of them.
The two narrators for this story were amazing. Both of them had me fully immersed in the story they were telling because their performance was so good. I definitely want more by both of them in future. And I want more of this series.
April 7, 2018
Jace is a tattooed six feet three bad boy who's smart, silent,complex, interesting, who reads Dostoevsky and, get this, he's a virgin!!!
I loved him and loved his story, he's so sweet to the heroine and just adorable. I just wanted to hug him badly.
A really enjoyable read with a really captivating writing style and lovable MCs.
I'm glad i read this book, but not sure i'm going to read his brothers' stories, they all seemed manwhores and just not my kind of heros.
The first book was Luke and Emily's story
I loved him and loved his story, he's so sweet to the heroine and just adorable. I just wanted to hug him badly.
A really enjoyable read with a really captivating writing style and lovable MCs.
I'm glad i read this book, but not sure i'm going to read his brothers' stories, they all seemed manwhores and just not my kind of heros.
The first book was Luke and Emily's story
September 12, 2019
4.5 stars
Riggs brother number 2. Yes! More sexy bad boy with a soft spot for the woman he loves.
I am quickly becoming addicted to this family because each brother is unique. These are not men who are all similar and share a deep bond, but four men who never really connected growing up. Through their childhood they were allowed to run wild, and it is only as adults that they seem to be coming back around and establishing a relationship with one another. For Jace Riggs, that relationship is occurring now that he is out of prison, having served time for auto theft.
Jace is the enigma. The studious brother with his nose always in a book, Jace is the least likely to have spent time behind bars. He’s intelligent, thoughtful, quiet, and a loner. Being sent to court ordered counseling is torture for this man who shies away from any sort of emotional intimacy, but it is there that he meets his counselor, Tara.
From outward appearances, Tara and Jace appear to be total opposites. Tara is prim and serious. Jace is six feet three inches of tattooed muscle. Tara deals in emotions and Jace avoids anything where he would need to share his. And yet, I loved these two together. Jace was loyal and intelligent and the fact that this man grew out of the circumstances of his childhood was amazing. He wanted affection and an emotional connection so badly, despite his aversion to it, and my heart really went out to him.
What I’m enjoying most about these books, aside from the hotness of these bad boys, is the underlying story regarding their father and the attempt by all of the brothers to break free of the stigma that their father has thrust on them. While this book and Luke’s both focused on different individual events, the backstory is one that is shared with all of the brothers. Based on what I’ve seen of the other two brothers, I’m looking forward to Ryan and Dex’s books next. The writing is engaging and crisp, and I’m slightly obsessed with these guys.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Riggs brother number 2. Yes! More sexy bad boy with a soft spot for the woman he loves.
I am quickly becoming addicted to this family because each brother is unique. These are not men who are all similar and share a deep bond, but four men who never really connected growing up. Through their childhood they were allowed to run wild, and it is only as adults that they seem to be coming back around and establishing a relationship with one another. For Jace Riggs, that relationship is occurring now that he is out of prison, having served time for auto theft.
Jace is the enigma. The studious brother with his nose always in a book, Jace is the least likely to have spent time behind bars. He’s intelligent, thoughtful, quiet, and a loner. Being sent to court ordered counseling is torture for this man who shies away from any sort of emotional intimacy, but it is there that he meets his counselor, Tara.
From outward appearances, Tara and Jace appear to be total opposites. Tara is prim and serious. Jace is six feet three inches of tattooed muscle. Tara deals in emotions and Jace avoids anything where he would need to share his. And yet, I loved these two together. Jace was loyal and intelligent and the fact that this man grew out of the circumstances of his childhood was amazing. He wanted affection and an emotional connection so badly, despite his aversion to it, and my heart really went out to him.
What I’m enjoying most about these books, aside from the hotness of these bad boys, is the underlying story regarding their father and the attempt by all of the brothers to break free of the stigma that their father has thrust on them. While this book and Luke’s both focused on different individual events, the backstory is one that is shared with all of the brothers. Based on what I’ve seen of the other two brothers, I’m looking forward to Ryan and Dex’s books next. The writing is engaging and crisp, and I’m slightly obsessed with these guys.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
October 10, 2021
I was expecting it to be the sister of the last book but I was pleasantly surprised it wasn’t.
Jace just got out of jail for stealing cars, everyone know the Riggs brothers are bad boys but to be in jail that is even more.
I loved who he ends up with, it was a shock just as much as it wasn’t.
The drama that comes is to be expected and I still enjoyed it along with the narration because Erin Mallon.
Jace just got out of jail for stealing cars, everyone know the Riggs brothers are bad boys but to be in jail that is even more.
I loved who he ends up with, it was a shock just as much as it wasn’t.
The drama that comes is to be expected and I still enjoyed it along with the narration because Erin Mallon.
October 30, 2019
Oh wow Take me down is book two in the riggs brothers series and it can be read as a standalone but I do recommend that you read them in order . I can't wait to see what's to come from this author and of the series .
April 24, 2018
A misunderstood not-so-bad bad boy and the woman who wants to know all about him
This is a tale of uptown girl meets boy from the wrong side of the tracks (literally). Having read and enjoyed a lot of her previous work, including the first book in this series, I couldn't miss reading Jace's story in Take Me Down. The book can be read as a stand alone, though it contains characters from a previous book there is sufficient background given to follow this story, without too many spoilers either. There was something special about Jace in Drive Me Wild, and his story certainly didn't disappoint.
Tara is a counsellor who often works with those the courts deem to require her services. Jace is one such client, ordered to attend his sessions as part of his parole conditions. Their first meeting is fiery, with some less than professional behaviour and plenty of provocation. Go two isn't any better, but then Tara discovers something about Jace that puts the situation in a whole new light. She meets with him to apologies, and since they are no longer client and counsellor, the fire between them threatens to turn into an inferno. However someone in Tara's past is not going to like her having a relationship with a Rigg's and it is enough to put Jace at a huge risk.
I loved Jace, he had such hidden depths and wasn't afraid to be who he wanted to be. I didn't quite 'get' Tara in the same way but I still really believed in them as a couple. They had amazing chemistry and I'm sure my kindle was on the verge of melting on more than one occasion. The pace of the story is really good and there are several very unexpected and surprising plot twist. If I had a criticism of the book it was that the ending felt a little rushed. There was quite a lot of different things packed into only a few chapters. Despite some quite twisty plot lines, everything worked and the story did feel believable.
One of the parts I really liked was that whilst Tara's parents weren't the best, she accepted them for who they were and there wasn't a huge 'I disown you' scene or a 'come to Jesus' moment where all sins were forgiven. They weren't that good at showing their love but they were the only parents Tara had, and much better than Jace's had ever been, so it was a case of 'live with it'.
The Riggs are down-to-earth rough and ready boys, so there is quite a lot of bad language in this. Although it starts of fairly slow burn there are also several very detailed and steamy scenes too, so this is very much an 18+ read. If you want a well written, entertaining, steamy read where the hero is very much a blue collar guy then this is one to try.
This is a tale of uptown girl meets boy from the wrong side of the tracks (literally). Having read and enjoyed a lot of her previous work, including the first book in this series, I couldn't miss reading Jace's story in Take Me Down. The book can be read as a stand alone, though it contains characters from a previous book there is sufficient background given to follow this story, without too many spoilers either. There was something special about Jace in Drive Me Wild, and his story certainly didn't disappoint.
Tara is a counsellor who often works with those the courts deem to require her services. Jace is one such client, ordered to attend his sessions as part of his parole conditions. Their first meeting is fiery, with some less than professional behaviour and plenty of provocation. Go two isn't any better, but then Tara discovers something about Jace that puts the situation in a whole new light. She meets with him to apologies, and since they are no longer client and counsellor, the fire between them threatens to turn into an inferno. However someone in Tara's past is not going to like her having a relationship with a Rigg's and it is enough to put Jace at a huge risk.
I loved Jace, he had such hidden depths and wasn't afraid to be who he wanted to be. I didn't quite 'get' Tara in the same way but I still really believed in them as a couple. They had amazing chemistry and I'm sure my kindle was on the verge of melting on more than one occasion. The pace of the story is really good and there are several very unexpected and surprising plot twist. If I had a criticism of the book it was that the ending felt a little rushed. There was quite a lot of different things packed into only a few chapters. Despite some quite twisty plot lines, everything worked and the story did feel believable.
One of the parts I really liked was that whilst Tara's parents weren't the best, she accepted them for who they were and there wasn't a huge 'I disown you' scene or a 'come to Jesus' moment where all sins were forgiven. They weren't that good at showing their love but they were the only parents Tara had, and much better than Jace's had ever been, so it was a case of 'live with it'.
The Riggs are down-to-earth rough and ready boys, so there is quite a lot of bad language in this. Although it starts of fairly slow burn there are also several very detailed and steamy scenes too, so this is very much an 18+ read. If you want a well written, entertaining, steamy read where the hero is very much a blue collar guy then this is one to try.
Read
May 23, 2018DNF
I must be in a really bad mood, because after reading for the 4th time that the heroine's body was "slim", I wanted to ask for a refund.
We got it, let's try some character development.
I must be in a really bad mood, because after reading for the 4th time that the heroine's body was "slim", I wanted to ask for a refund.
We got it, let's try some character development.
November 2, 2019
4.5 STARS REVIEW
Contemporary Romance
First Person, dual-POV
This is book #2 of the Riggs Brothers and I don't think this series should be read as a standalone. The brothers are together rebuilding their lives but there are lots of ghosts from the past that you need to understand.
Addictiveness: 5/5 This was a fast-paced read with characters that were easy to connect. As addictive as chocolate!!!
Character: hero 5/5, heroine 5/5, secondary characters 5/5, growth 5/5, real 5/5 Multidimensional characters with depth and good backstories. They were very lovable.
Jace was the quiet, smart brother, that somehow ended up in his father's web of lies and went to jail. He was really mysterious, but like Luke ready to rebuild his life. kept secrets even from his brother and had to learn to lean on others. Like his brother, Jace was hot and sexy and almost the perfect boyfriend. Because Luke is already my boyfriend, I have to say he is my second favorite brother lol.
Tara was a great character. I love psychoanalyses and I really connected with her. She also had skeletons in her closet, but I guess most of us do. They made a great couple.
I'm in love with these brothers and can't wait for the next book!
Villains.. antagonists… this boys practically raised themselves, so their lack of self-esteem really feels like one of their worst enemies. They never feel like they are good enough. Also there are a couple real antagonists here, but I won't spoil the fun.
All characters were easy to love, connect and understand!!!
Cover: art 4/5, title 5/5, color-font 5/5, buy 5/5 I’m obsessed with book covers. I love to find snippets of the stories within the art. This was a good cover, but a bit too generic for me. This could be the cover of several other books. I like the title, the font and colors used. Maybe I would buy this book by its cover without needing to read the blurb!!!
Plot: believable 4/5, conflict 5/5, dialogue 5/5, ending 5/5, enjoyment 5/5, opening 4/5, pace 5/5, setting 5/5, subplots 4/5, twists 5/5 Good opening for a great ending. Believable plot, with deep dialogues and wonderful pace. Wonderful conflict, interesting subplots and awesome twists. High level of enjoyment!
Romance: believable 5/5, chemistry 5/5, description 5/5, development 5/5, steam 4/5 Yeah, Jace was hot hot hot!!! Like Tara said in the book, their parents may have been horrible parents, but they definitely made amazing looking guys. lol Their chemistry was intense, Jace liked to drive Tara crazy, she was the one that had to go on the attack and he never felt he was good enough for her. The smut was amazing, their love story grew nicely. I love the end, that is just a happily for now, because this series is continuing and these romances are the real deal. They feel real and very believable.
Writing Style: 4.5/5 I loved the plot and how the characters were created and their personal growth. They are such complex creatures, like all of us and felt real. The author really knows how to emote to readers. Crafty writer!
Freshness: 3.5/5 Like the first book ,there is nothing completely original here. It was even expected. After reading the first book I had already guessed why Jace had been in jail and what would probably be the backstory. It doesn't matter. This is so well written and with the added twists it feels fresh enough. As fresh as mentos!!!
Of course Ms. Kriss is leaving Dex's book as the last one just because I've been dying to meet the jerk. Yes, he seemed crazy and an as..ole, but I usually love the real bad boys. lol
I'm certain Ryan, the man candy will be an amazing book also, and I can't wait to read it.
31.5/35 STARS – 4.5 STARS (between 31.5 stars and 33stars)
Addictiveness: 5 Character: 5 Cover: 4 Freshness: 3.5 Plot: 4 Romance: 5 Writing Style: 4.5
Action 2/5 Angst 3/5 Darkness 0/5 Humor 1/5 Romance 5/5 Suspense/Mystery 3/5
Would I recommend? Definitely! If you enjoy small town sexy romance this is a MUST!
Would I re-read this book/series? I would reread this!
Would I read more from the author? I’m really looking forward to.
You MAY read this because you are following the series; you SHOULD read this because you like your heroes sexy and hot; you MUST read this because is a marvelous love story!!!
September 28, 2019
Oh Jace! I've been dying for his book the second I finished Drive Me Wild.
Jace Riggs, is the quiet Riggs brother. He was the clever one, that would read books to pass the time and keep to himself. However when he got convicted as a car thief and spent 20 months in jail it surprised all his brothers.
Now he's getting some counselling from a woman called Tara. She is very independent, she is honest and takes no bullshit, which might be why her and Have butt head more than once when they meet.
They have an instant attraction to one another but try to stay professional even if that fails and ends with them arguing.
After Jace becomes her client no longer she can't help but still seeking him out. They both have unfinished business in a sense and they need to appologise and make up.
Small encounters build to so much more and soon enough they're too far gone. However with an ex-fiance still annoyed at Tara and even more so at her dating a Riggs brother a lot of drama occurs to cause some havoc.
It was a fun, enticing and thrilling read with the perfect layer of heart and heat. I'm craving more of the Riggs brothers and it's not just becuase Joe Arden's narration is perfection.
Thank you for the Audio Review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jace Riggs, is the quiet Riggs brother. He was the clever one, that would read books to pass the time and keep to himself. However when he got convicted as a car thief and spent 20 months in jail it surprised all his brothers.
Now he's getting some counselling from a woman called Tara. She is very independent, she is honest and takes no bullshit, which might be why her and Have butt head more than once when they meet.
They have an instant attraction to one another but try to stay professional even if that fails and ends with them arguing.
After Jace becomes her client no longer she can't help but still seeking him out. They both have unfinished business in a sense and they need to appologise and make up.
Small encounters build to so much more and soon enough they're too far gone. However with an ex-fiance still annoyed at Tara and even more so at her dating a Riggs brother a lot of drama occurs to cause some havoc.
It was a fun, enticing and thrilling read with the perfect layer of heart and heat. I'm craving more of the Riggs brothers and it's not just becuase Joe Arden's narration is perfection.
Thank you for the Audio Review copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2025
2 for 2. This series is so good!
Jace Riggs is the "quiet" brother: intelligent, observant and a voracious reader. He has a few other secrets as well. So glad that Tara did not let the Riggs Brothers reputation deter her from getting to know the real Jace. It is so worth it! (e-book edition).
Jace Riggs is the "quiet" brother: intelligent, observant and a voracious reader. He has a few other secrets as well. So glad that Tara did not let the Riggs Brothers reputation deter her from getting to know the real Jace. It is so worth it! (e-book edition).
October 31, 2019
Continuing in the tradition of a steamy nighttime scenes and a good storyline, the second book in the Riggs Bro. series has been stepped up to the plate and delivered! I thoroughly enjoyed this one. Julie Kriss has a fan in me.
Thank you to the publisher and Wildfire Promotions for the free book in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to the publisher and Wildfire Promotions for the free book in exchange for an honest review!
May 14, 2023
Book 2 of the Riggs brothers - Jace...the one who went to jail!!! I will say this about all the books on repeat I'm sure!! >>> This is not really something you should read as a standalone as I think the books are written more as a whole set as there is an overall storyline playing out - which I am enjoying A TON!!!!!! These are quick little reads, filled with a little fun, a little romance, a little thriller aspect all rolled in to one! I really love all the characters and the story of each so far and am looking forward to the overall storyline and how each couple will play the part.
November 1, 2019
“I should have known better. That was the last time we were civil. After that, it all went to hell.”
Jace has always been the most introvert and controlled Riggs brother. Smart and passionate about books, his chances for a better life have always been taken from him, by prejudices and judgments made about his family. The teachers thought he cheated on his grades, his friends were nonexistent, and the townspeople saw him and his brothers as delinquents. No one ever cared. When he gets arrested, everyone was expecting that. But for those who really knew him, it was a surprise.
Now released from prison, he still has to go through several protocols to actually be considered free. Sticking to the rules one by one, all he wants is to start over. Until a session with a new psychological counselor threatens all his progress.
Tara believes in helping others. After all, that's why she chose her profession. But upon receiving a new case, her prejudgment and certain prejudice will put everything to lose. Seeing Jace as a reflection of his father will be her biggest mistake. And her attraction to him will only make things worse.
And when their professional relationship ceases to exist, resisting the growing attraction will be next to impossible. And as Tara comes to know Jace and discover his secrets, falling in love will be harder than she thinks. But when a situation puts Jace in danger and someone from Tara's past proves to be a threat, the possibility of a future together becomes increasingly distant.
Jace was a pleasant surprise. At the same time that he shows courage, he shows extreme vulnerability. He can't see that others care about him. Even if the brothers are not close, and all their interactions end in fights, it is undeniable that they care, and the recent rapprochement has shown how much they need each other's support.
Tara helps Jace open himself and fight for what he wants. The two are a beautiful couple. Like the first book, there is a little tension, the brothers are in trouble again. Jace earned a more than deserved second chance. It is impossible not to cheer for him.
There are still two brothers on the way. What will their journeys be like?
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest Review *
https://avidezliteraria.wordpress.com/
Jace has always been the most introvert and controlled Riggs brother. Smart and passionate about books, his chances for a better life have always been taken from him, by prejudices and judgments made about his family. The teachers thought he cheated on his grades, his friends were nonexistent, and the townspeople saw him and his brothers as delinquents. No one ever cared. When he gets arrested, everyone was expecting that. But for those who really knew him, it was a surprise.
Now released from prison, he still has to go through several protocols to actually be considered free. Sticking to the rules one by one, all he wants is to start over. Until a session with a new psychological counselor threatens all his progress.
Tara believes in helping others. After all, that's why she chose her profession. But upon receiving a new case, her prejudgment and certain prejudice will put everything to lose. Seeing Jace as a reflection of his father will be her biggest mistake. And her attraction to him will only make things worse.
And when their professional relationship ceases to exist, resisting the growing attraction will be next to impossible. And as Tara comes to know Jace and discover his secrets, falling in love will be harder than she thinks. But when a situation puts Jace in danger and someone from Tara's past proves to be a threat, the possibility of a future together becomes increasingly distant.
Jace was a pleasant surprise. At the same time that he shows courage, he shows extreme vulnerability. He can't see that others care about him. Even if the brothers are not close, and all their interactions end in fights, it is undeniable that they care, and the recent rapprochement has shown how much they need each other's support.
Tara helps Jace open himself and fight for what he wants. The two are a beautiful couple. Like the first book, there is a little tension, the brothers are in trouble again. Jace earned a more than deserved second chance. It is impossible not to cheer for him.
There are still two brothers on the way. What will their journeys be like?
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest Review *
https://avidezliteraria.wordpress.com/
March 6, 2019
Jace Riggs, the youngest of the Riggs brothers has just finished a 20-month jail term for grand auto theft. Out of all the brothers, he is the one you would never have thought would have done this. Jace is intelligent, quiet and keeps to himself. Part of his early release is to meet up with a counsellor, to get the court order lifted so he can get on with his life. Tara Montgomery is the counsellor and all her training is saying something does not add up with Jace. The first meeting does not go well and the second one leaves her wanting to apologise, but is that really the reason she wants to find Jace? Or could it be that she has never been so attracted to a man before? While Jace has a huge secret, so does Tara. What happens when Tara’s secret comes out for revenge and in the process could destroy Jace’s own secret? The Riggs brothers are starting to realise that they are there for one another. Can they show the town that there is more to them that what they have been subjected to their whole lives? Ms Kriss is a fairly new author to me and I have really enjoyed this series so far. The story is fast paced, the characters are likeable, and the plot thickens with plenty of building climax. The chemistry between Tara and Jace was magnetic. Secondary characters leave you wanting more of their own story. I can’t wait to find out about Dex, he seems to be some sort of an enigma.
Reviewed for Hot books and Sassy Girls book blog
Reviewed for Hot books and Sassy Girls book blog
October 9, 2019
The mystery between these brothers continues! I was definitely interested with this next book in the series being focused around Jace, especially with his reputation of being the one that nobody thought would get caught up in their father’s business and activities. Assigned to court-mandated therapy post release, Jace ends up meeting Tara, a counselor who gets assigned his case at the last minute, and wanting to make a difference in everyone she speaks with, pushes him as much as he does her. When Tara finds out exactly who Jace is and realizes her approach was misguided, she goes to apologize, and ends up starting a relationship with him. Unfortunately, the odds are stacked against Jace and his father’s influence haunting him, he’s on the hunt to make things right while keeping himself safe and clean. Tara is also showing character growth after breaking off her engagement and finding it was the right move after meeting Jace. What she doesn’t expect is her past coming back to haunt her and have ties to Jace’s problems as well. This book definitely sucked me in more than the first one, especially with the continued mystery/drama surrounding the brother’s themselves in addition to their father.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 10, 2019
Take Me Down is the second book in the Riggs brothers series and another fantastic page-turner by Julie Kriss. This was Jace and Tara's story and I was hooked until the very end. From the moment these two met you could feel the chemistry between them even though they both tried to deny it. The other characters from the previous novel appeared in this story and provided great support to the main characters.
This novel had steamy scenes, action, some violence and was a captivating enjoyable read. I can't wait to read about the other two brothers in this series.
I listened to the audiobook version of this novel which was narrated by Erin Mallon and Joe Arden who were perfect together for this story. They brought the characters to life and really made the story a pleasure to listen to.
This novel had steamy scenes, action, some violence and was a captivating enjoyable read. I can't wait to read about the other two brothers in this series.
I listened to the audiobook version of this novel which was narrated by Erin Mallon and Joe Arden who were perfect together for this story. They brought the characters to life and really made the story a pleasure to listen to.
October 30, 2019
From the very beginning of the first book in this series I have been ecstatic and almost giddy about reading Jace's story. There is something about the strong, silent-type of man that draws me in and doesn't let me go. Julie Kriss delivers a powerful gut punch in this semi short read that will having you falling for Jace Riggs, I dare you to try not to!
Do y'all like books about rising up from what you were to be something great? Strong characters that have so much heart even though it might be deep down deep? What about red hot chemistry between your main characters?
Yep, Take Me Down is that book for you and I couldn't recommend this more for you to read this as soon as you can! I loved it and totally dare you not to!
Do y'all like books about rising up from what you were to be something great? Strong characters that have so much heart even though it might be deep down deep? What about red hot chemistry between your main characters?
Yep, Take Me Down is that book for you and I couldn't recommend this more for you to read this as soon as you can! I loved it and totally dare you not to!
January 24, 2025
3.5 stars
This was mostly a rehash of Drive Me Wild (book one in this series), especially with the good girl/bad boy thing, but this time the forbidden aspect of their relationship is that she is his counsellor.
I was a little surprised that the counsellor/patient part was so brief, but these are short books so maybe I shouldn't have been. I just wish that had been more central to the plot. It also felt less fleshed out than book one, with less focus on family and friend dynamics (especially with Tara) – a shame because that's something book one did really well.
But even with my complaints, I enjoyed listening to this a lot for most of the same reasons as book one. I'll probably take a break with this series before listening to book 3 though, because I can see them getting same-y.
This was mostly a rehash of Drive Me Wild (book one in this series), especially with the good girl/bad boy thing, but this time the forbidden aspect of their relationship is that she is his counsellor.
I was a little surprised that the counsellor/patient part was so brief, but these are short books so maybe I shouldn't have been. I just wish that had been more central to the plot. It also felt less fleshed out than book one, with less focus on family and friend dynamics (especially with Tara) – a shame because that's something book one did really well.
But even with my complaints, I enjoyed listening to this a lot for most of the same reasons as book one. I'll probably take a break with this series before listening to book 3 though, because I can see them getting same-y.
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