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Defiant
We can’t help what we feel. His quick wit and sharp tongue have gotten playboy Jayden Deus into and out of plenty of sticky situations. Grieving his disapproving father and suddenly in charge of a huge company, a threat to his life comes out of the blue. Jayden's a fighter, but this is going to be the kind of battle that takes fists, not words.
Lucas Neal used to be a Navy SEAL, but he quit to take care of his sister and her little girl. These days he's in the bodyguard business, and his new client is the guy whose company jacked up the cost of his niece's meds. Frankly he thinks Deus deserves the bullet, but it's Lucas' job to make sure the hit never lands.
Worse, they recognize each other from a bar hookup the night Jayden's life changed forever. Unable to stand the memory, but unable to put it aside, they struggle to keep it professional as they're forced to work side by side. Like it or not, Lucas' mission is to protect this mouthy nerd. The best way to do that is to figure out who wants him dead - and try not to lose his heart along the way.
Defiant is a standalone, steamy, kinky romance about two men who have every reason to hate each other as they fight for their HEA. It features a belligerent geek, a rocky working relationship, and all kinds of makeshift restraints.
Lucas Neal used to be a Navy SEAL, but he quit to take care of his sister and her little girl. These days he's in the bodyguard business, and his new client is the guy whose company jacked up the cost of his niece's meds. Frankly he thinks Deus deserves the bullet, but it's Lucas' job to make sure the hit never lands.
Worse, they recognize each other from a bar hookup the night Jayden's life changed forever. Unable to stand the memory, but unable to put it aside, they struggle to keep it professional as they're forced to work side by side. Like it or not, Lucas' mission is to protect this mouthy nerd. The best way to do that is to figure out who wants him dead - and try not to lose his heart along the way.
Defiant is a standalone, steamy, kinky romance about two men who have every reason to hate each other as they fight for their HEA. It features a belligerent geek, a rocky working relationship, and all kinds of makeshift restraints.
275 pages, ebook
First published June 3, 2018
93 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 4, 2018
This is neither worth it for the storyline nor the plentiful smut. The author might as well have gotten onto a soap-box and delivered her critique of the US pharma industry. Instead she has one of her main characters give an absolutely ridiculous speech right at the start and never really stops preaching at the reader. I do not mind getting some education with my reading but this is just bad writing.
I might have tolerated this if the smut had been good. Unfortunately it is not. There is a lot of it and the author *thinks* it's the height of hotness but it is mechanical and the 'dirty talk' is laughably tame. You can't just declare your characters filthy, needy cock-sluts and be done with it. They do kind of have to act on that in more ways than just dropping their pants.
Also lube. Condoms. Those are things.
I might have tolerated this if the smut had been good. Unfortunately it is not. There is a lot of it and the author *thinks* it's the height of hotness but it is mechanical and the 'dirty talk' is laughably tame. You can't just declare your characters filthy, needy cock-sluts and be done with it. They do kind of have to act on that in more ways than just dropping their pants.
Also lube. Condoms. Those are things.
June 9, 2018
Jayden is having anonymous sex in a bathroom stall when he lets his mothers phone call go to voice mail. When he finally gets to the message he learns his father has died. A year later he has lost his fathers company, kicked off the board. He is trying to get it back when he receives his first death threat.
Lucas is an ex SEAL. Body guarding to support his niece and sister. Brought in to protect Jayden, they are both shocked to see their hookup from a year ago. They are suprised but decide they can handle the situation.
Their chemistry is off the charts. Jayden needs someone to take control and Lucas is perfect for him. In no time at all they are exploring the attraction. Another death threat, this time much more serious, draws them even closer to each other.
This book has a lot of sex, some of it kinky, all of it hot. A good story line with interesting main characters and the supporting cast is good also. Definitely recommend this one
I received an arc of this book for review.
Lucas is an ex SEAL. Body guarding to support his niece and sister. Brought in to protect Jayden, they are both shocked to see their hookup from a year ago. They are suprised but decide they can handle the situation.
Their chemistry is off the charts. Jayden needs someone to take control and Lucas is perfect for him. In no time at all they are exploring the attraction. Another death threat, this time much more serious, draws them even closer to each other.
This book has a lot of sex, some of it kinky, all of it hot. A good story line with interesting main characters and the supporting cast is good also. Definitely recommend this one
I received an arc of this book for review.
June 19, 2018
3.5 stars
July 14, 2019
Good moments
This was a nice story to read. Main characters were strong, funny at times, and best of all likeable. What started out as an anonymous meeting led to more when Jayden was in need of private security. I was entertained and the angst was almost none existent. They did well communicating with each other.
This was a nice story to read. Main characters were strong, funny at times, and best of all likeable. What started out as an anonymous meeting led to more when Jayden was in need of private security. I was entertained and the angst was almost none existent. They did well communicating with each other.
June 12, 2018
Jayden is in the middle of a legal battle, trying to regain control of the board of his fathers company after they ousted him while he was grieving his fathers death. After receiving a disturbing threat in the mail, his ex assistant hires him a bodyguard.
Lucas is an ex SEAL working in private security, living with his sister to help her with expenses.
They have explosive chemistry together...
"He wasn't trained to fall in love."
As the hunt for the person behind the treats to Jayden intensifies up the relationship between Lucas & Jayden heats up. The differences between them become more apparent and sometimes problematic. Neither man quite trusting the motives of the other. It's a bit sad that they are both so jaded but you can't really blame either of them..
A great story that kept me engaged the whole way through.
Lucas is an ex SEAL working in private security, living with his sister to help her with expenses.
They have explosive chemistry together...
"He wasn't trained to fall in love."
As the hunt for the person behind the treats to Jayden intensifies up the relationship between Lucas & Jayden heats up. The differences between them become more apparent and sometimes problematic. Neither man quite trusting the motives of the other. It's a bit sad that they are both so jaded but you can't really blame either of them..
A great story that kept me engaged the whole way through.
August 15, 2018
DNF @ 41%.
I had decided that I was going to power through this, but I haven't picked it up in 3 days, so I think it's time to move on.
The first issue was just with the structure/wording choice of some of the sentences. I think my favourite example would be:
Secondly, neither character doesn't really have anything going for them that made me like them. And Lucas thinking that "there was nothing worse than a guy who topped from the bottom" was the nail in the coffin that Lucas is an alpha douche.
Third, I thought that a good part of this book would have Lucas hating Jayden, but he gets over that pretty much immediately, realizing he misjudged Jayden. And then from there the plot is thrown to the wayside to make way for sex. So, if you're hoping for hate-sex, it doesn't happen.
But the real issue that I had with this book was something pretty minor, but it just niggled at the back of my mind and I couldn't get over it: Jayden is super rich. He has enough money not only to afford a bodyguard, but a 24/7 security detail. Yet Jayden, who can't stand contact lenses and only wears glasses, breaks his and has to go without glasses for a day because he only has one pair. I don't know anyone who has any kind of corrective vision who doesn't have a spare pair. I used to keep my old pairs and always carried disposable contact lenses with me. My sister only needs hers for reading and driving but still has two pairs and prescription sunglasses. My dad has all his old ones. My mom has a few pairs and a pair of prescription sunglasses. My friend used to order hers online and had about 10 different pairs. So, I'm expected to believe that a guy with a ton of money only has one pair of glasses... doesn't even have a pair of prescription sunglasses that he could wear in the meantime, doesn't have spares or just another pair to wear from time to time because wearing the same pair every day can get boring? And in the end, him breaking his glasses and having to deal with blurred vision for a day serves no purpose to the plot.
I had decided that I was going to power through this, but I haven't picked it up in 3 days, so I think it's time to move on.
The first issue was just with the structure/wording choice of some of the sentences. I think my favourite example would be:
Lucas arrived dead on 8AM as usual, but this time he had an entire entourage with him.Maybe "precisely at" would have been better wording, so that I didn't momentarily wonder if Lucas was undead.
Secondly, neither character doesn't really have anything going for them that made me like them. And Lucas thinking that "there was nothing worse than a guy who topped from the bottom" was the nail in the coffin that Lucas is an alpha douche.
Third, I thought that a good part of this book would have Lucas hating Jayden, but he gets over that pretty much immediately, realizing he misjudged Jayden. And then from there the plot is thrown to the wayside to make way for sex. So, if you're hoping for hate-sex, it doesn't happen.
But the real issue that I had with this book was something pretty minor, but it just niggled at the back of my mind and I couldn't get over it: Jayden is super rich. He has enough money not only to afford a bodyguard, but a 24/7 security detail. Yet Jayden, who can't stand contact lenses and only wears glasses, breaks his and has to go without glasses for a day because he only has one pair. I don't know anyone who has any kind of corrective vision who doesn't have a spare pair. I used to keep my old pairs and always carried disposable contact lenses with me. My sister only needs hers for reading and driving but still has two pairs and prescription sunglasses. My dad has all his old ones. My mom has a few pairs and a pair of prescription sunglasses. My friend used to order hers online and had about 10 different pairs. So, I'm expected to believe that a guy with a ton of money only has one pair of glasses... doesn't even have a pair of prescription sunglasses that he could wear in the meantime, doesn't have spares or just another pair to wear from time to time because wearing the same pair every day can get boring? And in the end, him breaking his glasses and having to deal with blurred vision for a day serves no purpose to the plot.
June 15, 2018
FR- Alors alors.... alors c'est le premier roman de cet auteur que je lis et j'avoue que j'avais un peu peur parce que j'avais lu sur internet que c'était très très chaud. Beaucoup beaucoup de sexe. Et si vous me suivez vous devez savoir que je n'aime pas la romance érotique. Mais vraiment pas du tout. J'ai commencé ce roman avec une légère appréhension, d'autant plus que je suis en ce moment en train de lire un autre roman dans lequel les scènes de sexes me gênent. Mais ce deuxième roman est en français et je pense que le fait que le roman de Max Hawthorne soit en anglais me met une petite distance bien salutaire dans mon cas. je peux lire des scènes très crues et très imagées en anglais alors que le moindre mot un peu vulgaire (bite, queue, cul suivant comment c'est utilisé) en français me gêne énormément. Ne cherchez pas de logique là dedans, j'ai mis moi même énormément de temps à m'en rendre compte.
Sur ce, en effet le roman de Max Hawthorne est bourré de scènes chaudes. Très chaudes. Et très crues. D'ailleurs au début de ma lecture je me suis dit que s'il n'y avait que ça , c'était mal parti. Cependant, je me suis très vitre prise au jeu et suis tombée sous le charme des personnages. J'ai énormément aimé les différences entre Lucas et Jayden. Que ce soit au niveau de leurs origines, de leur éducation, de leur façon de vivre mais aussi au niveau de leur caractère et de leurs penchants sexuels. Parce que leurs penchants sont une part très importante de ce roman et de leur relation. Alors oui.. on a des liens, des fouets, des fessées et des baillons pour autant on n'est pas non plus dans du BDSM pur et dur. J'avoue que certains scènes m'ont surprise (oui je peux être très très prude quand je m'y met mais je vous le rappelle, je ne lis pas de romance érotique) pour autant j'ai énormément aimé la relation entre Jayden et Lucas surtout au lit. J'aime quand un personnage est plus autoritaire et tout ce qui concerne le lâcher prise nécessaire au "soumis". Et dans ce roman là, cet aspect est vraiment bien traité. La relation entre les deux hommes est équilibrée et saine et j'ai vraiment apprécié ce point. J'ai beaucoup aimé le fait qu'en dehors du lit, les deux personnages soit assez mûrs et intelligents pour travailler sur leurs différences et au moment où leurs points de vues diffèrent sur un sujet précis, ils vont avoir l'intelligence d'en parler et de s'expliquer ce qui évite les drama plus qu'habituels dans la romance . Rien que pour ça merci énormément à l'auteur.
Au delà de la romance et des pratiques sexuelles de nos deux personnages, j'ai énormément aimé le coté "policier" de ce roman, d'autant plus qu'on évoque un peu l'univers pharmaceutique aux Etats Unis et que c'est un sujet qui m’intéresse beaucoup. J'ai vraiment aimé l'univers décrit par l'auteur que ce soit celui donc des produits pharmaceutiques pour Jayden et celui des gardes du corps pour Lucas. Et j'avoue que les gardes du corps, personnellement ça marche toujours!
J'ai vraiment énormément aimé ce roman et la plume de l'auteur qui réussit à nous proposer une romance chaude et intense, de l'action, du suspense et des personnages très attachants et hauts en couleur. Un sans faute pour l'auteur.
ENG- So well well well... well this is the first novel of this author that I read and I confess that I was a little afraid because I read on the internet that it was very very hot. A lot of sex. And if you follow me you must know that I do not like erotic romance. But really not at all. I started this novel with a slight apprehension, especially since I am currently reading another novel in which the scenes of sexes annoy me. But this second novel is in French and I think that the fact that Max Hawthorne's novel is in English puts me a little healthy distance in my case. I can read very raw and very pictorial scenes in English while the least vulgar word (cock, tail, ass according to how it is used) in French annoys me enormously. Do not look for logic in it, I have put myself a lot of time to realize it.On this point, indeed, Max Hawthorne's novel is full of hot scenes. Very hot. And very raw. Moreover, at the beginning of my reading I told myself that if there was only that, it was bad start. However, I got very involved in the game and fell in love with the characters. I really liked the differences between Lucas and Jayden. Be it their origins, their education, their way of life, but also their level and their sexual inclinations. Because their inclinations are a very important part of this novel and their relationship. So yes .. we have links, whips, spanking and gags so we are not in BDSM pure and hard. I admit that some scenes surprised me (yes I can be very very careful when I put myself in it but I remind you, I do not read erotic romance) so much I loved the relationship between Jayden and Lucas especially in bed. I like when a character is more authoritarian and all that concerns the letting go necessary to the "submissive". And in this novel, this aspect is really well treated. The relationship between the two men is balanced and healthy and I really appreciated this point. I really liked the fact that, outside the bed, the two characters are mature and intelligent enough to work on their differences and when their points of view differ on a specific subject, they will have the intelligence to talk and explain what avoids more than usual drama in romance. Just for that, thank you very much to the author.
Beyond the romance and sexual practices of our two characters, I greatly loved the "detective" side of this novel, especially as we talk a little about the pharmaceutical universe in the United States and it's a subject that interests me a lot. I really liked the universe described by the author that it is therefore the pharmaceuticals for Jayden and that of the bodyguards for Lucas. And I admit that the bodyguards, personally it always works!
I really loved this novel and the pen of the author who managed to offer us a hot and intense romance, action, suspense and characters very endearing and colorful. Congrats to the author.
Sur ce, en effet le roman de Max Hawthorne est bourré de scènes chaudes. Très chaudes. Et très crues. D'ailleurs au début de ma lecture je me suis dit que s'il n'y avait que ça , c'était mal parti. Cependant, je me suis très vitre prise au jeu et suis tombée sous le charme des personnages. J'ai énormément aimé les différences entre Lucas et Jayden. Que ce soit au niveau de leurs origines, de leur éducation, de leur façon de vivre mais aussi au niveau de leur caractère et de leurs penchants sexuels. Parce que leurs penchants sont une part très importante de ce roman et de leur relation. Alors oui.. on a des liens, des fouets, des fessées et des baillons pour autant on n'est pas non plus dans du BDSM pur et dur. J'avoue que certains scènes m'ont surprise (oui je peux être très très prude quand je m'y met mais je vous le rappelle, je ne lis pas de romance érotique) pour autant j'ai énormément aimé la relation entre Jayden et Lucas surtout au lit. J'aime quand un personnage est plus autoritaire et tout ce qui concerne le lâcher prise nécessaire au "soumis". Et dans ce roman là, cet aspect est vraiment bien traité. La relation entre les deux hommes est équilibrée et saine et j'ai vraiment apprécié ce point. J'ai beaucoup aimé le fait qu'en dehors du lit, les deux personnages soit assez mûrs et intelligents pour travailler sur leurs différences et au moment où leurs points de vues diffèrent sur un sujet précis, ils vont avoir l'intelligence d'en parler et de s'expliquer ce qui évite les drama plus qu'habituels dans la romance . Rien que pour ça merci énormément à l'auteur.
Au delà de la romance et des pratiques sexuelles de nos deux personnages, j'ai énormément aimé le coté "policier" de ce roman, d'autant plus qu'on évoque un peu l'univers pharmaceutique aux Etats Unis et que c'est un sujet qui m’intéresse beaucoup. J'ai vraiment aimé l'univers décrit par l'auteur que ce soit celui donc des produits pharmaceutiques pour Jayden et celui des gardes du corps pour Lucas. Et j'avoue que les gardes du corps, personnellement ça marche toujours!
J'ai vraiment énormément aimé ce roman et la plume de l'auteur qui réussit à nous proposer une romance chaude et intense, de l'action, du suspense et des personnages très attachants et hauts en couleur. Un sans faute pour l'auteur.
ENG- So well well well... well this is the first novel of this author that I read and I confess that I was a little afraid because I read on the internet that it was very very hot. A lot of sex. And if you follow me you must know that I do not like erotic romance. But really not at all. I started this novel with a slight apprehension, especially since I am currently reading another novel in which the scenes of sexes annoy me. But this second novel is in French and I think that the fact that Max Hawthorne's novel is in English puts me a little healthy distance in my case. I can read very raw and very pictorial scenes in English while the least vulgar word (cock, tail, ass according to how it is used) in French annoys me enormously. Do not look for logic in it, I have put myself a lot of time to realize it.On this point, indeed, Max Hawthorne's novel is full of hot scenes. Very hot. And very raw. Moreover, at the beginning of my reading I told myself that if there was only that, it was bad start. However, I got very involved in the game and fell in love with the characters. I really liked the differences between Lucas and Jayden. Be it their origins, their education, their way of life, but also their level and their sexual inclinations. Because their inclinations are a very important part of this novel and their relationship. So yes .. we have links, whips, spanking and gags so we are not in BDSM pure and hard. I admit that some scenes surprised me (yes I can be very very careful when I put myself in it but I remind you, I do not read erotic romance) so much I loved the relationship between Jayden and Lucas especially in bed. I like when a character is more authoritarian and all that concerns the letting go necessary to the "submissive". And in this novel, this aspect is really well treated. The relationship between the two men is balanced and healthy and I really appreciated this point. I really liked the fact that, outside the bed, the two characters are mature and intelligent enough to work on their differences and when their points of view differ on a specific subject, they will have the intelligence to talk and explain what avoids more than usual drama in romance. Just for that, thank you very much to the author.
Beyond the romance and sexual practices of our two characters, I greatly loved the "detective" side of this novel, especially as we talk a little about the pharmaceutical universe in the United States and it's a subject that interests me a lot. I really liked the universe described by the author that it is therefore the pharmaceuticals for Jayden and that of the bodyguards for Lucas. And I admit that the bodyguards, personally it always works!
I really loved this novel and the pen of the author who managed to offer us a hot and intense romance, action, suspense and characters very endearing and colorful. Congrats to the author.
June 25, 2018
This author is on my one-click list and thankfully on KU because I anxiously await each new story, guaranteed Gay Romantic Suspense at its best. This story had all of my favorite ingredients. We begin with two guys who, at first glance, might not seem to fit, yet they sure do. Add some action, suspense, family ties, evil big business, a sweet young girl with chronic illness, a Navy SEAL, a prodigal son, a little bit of B&D, plenty of sizzle and a very satisfying topping and we have a reader’s one-click recommendation!
Jayden Deus’s initial encounter with former Navy SEAL Lucus Neal was certainly memorable but not all were good memories. Jayden’s usual mo. was anonymity, one and done, mostly because of his father’s business reputation and social standing, but his encounter with the “huge, beast of a man” was remarkable and unforgettable. Atypically, the stranger was careful to ensure Jayden’s safety following their encounter, making sure that Jayden was ok and secure. His parting words are important to the story, “I don’t like it when people don’t do as I say.” That was the night Jayden missed the call from his mother notifying him of his father’s sudden death; That night that everything changed.
Lucas left his SEAL Team to help his widowed sister care for his chronically ill niece. His niece’s care, medication especially, was far beyond his sister’s financial ability.
The prologue to this story was an important introduction to both characters and significant to the story. One might see Jayden as a playboy, thoughtless and without direction but we soon discover that is not the case. He is motivated and focused on fixing the damage caused by the pharmaceutical company owned by his now deceased father. When there are threats on Jayden’s life, a security company is hired to protect him. Enter bodyguard Lucas Neal.
Wait until you see what Lucas made for Jayden for Christmas.\!
Jayden Deus’s initial encounter with former Navy SEAL Lucus Neal was certainly memorable but not all were good memories. Jayden’s usual mo. was anonymity, one and done, mostly because of his father’s business reputation and social standing, but his encounter with the “huge, beast of a man” was remarkable and unforgettable. Atypically, the stranger was careful to ensure Jayden’s safety following their encounter, making sure that Jayden was ok and secure. His parting words are important to the story, “I don’t like it when people don’t do as I say.” That was the night Jayden missed the call from his mother notifying him of his father’s sudden death; That night that everything changed.
Lucas left his SEAL Team to help his widowed sister care for his chronically ill niece. His niece’s care, medication especially, was far beyond his sister’s financial ability.
The prologue to this story was an important introduction to both characters and significant to the story. One might see Jayden as a playboy, thoughtless and without direction but we soon discover that is not the case. He is motivated and focused on fixing the damage caused by the pharmaceutical company owned by his now deceased father. When there are threats on Jayden’s life, a security company is hired to protect him. Enter bodyguard Lucas Neal.
Wait until you see what Lucas made for Jayden for Christmas.\!
June 8, 2018
I’d enjoyed Shield by the author and the blurb got my attention as I adore alpha characters with a military background. Here we have Lucas, ex Navy Seal and now private security consultant, and Jayden, spoilt rich kid (or so it seems), they should be like and oil water as Lucas hates the idea of everything that Jayden Deus stands for; money, power and pure greed, and now he’s tasked with guarding the guy after a threat to his life. But Jayden’s the guy from his past who he had one of the hottest hook ups of his life with, which complicated things.
Assumptions abound and after spending time together, they each find there’s way more to each other that they first thought. The threat escalates and this pushes Lucas and Jayden closer, who can it be? Is it Jayden’s mom, or is it one of the board behind the threats? Why do they need Jayden to step down so bad?
There was plenty of intrigue, and a great supporting cast with Lottie and Tamsin and the guys from Pinnacle Security and at the heart of it all was a very beautiful love story told so very well by the author. There were lots of intimate scenes which were some of the hottest I’ve read (and I read a ton of romance), and I liked how it all felt so natural and it wasn’t there for effect or filler. I loved how they couldn’t keep their hands off each other and how they fell deeper the more they got to know each other.
I’m so glad I found this book, it was an absolute treat and I enjoyed every minute. It had everything I wanted and didn’t know I needed in a book. A well deserved five stars from me.
Assumptions abound and after spending time together, they each find there’s way more to each other that they first thought. The threat escalates and this pushes Lucas and Jayden closer, who can it be? Is it Jayden’s mom, or is it one of the board behind the threats? Why do they need Jayden to step down so bad?
There was plenty of intrigue, and a great supporting cast with Lottie and Tamsin and the guys from Pinnacle Security and at the heart of it all was a very beautiful love story told so very well by the author. There were lots of intimate scenes which were some of the hottest I’ve read (and I read a ton of romance), and I liked how it all felt so natural and it wasn’t there for effect or filler. I loved how they couldn’t keep their hands off each other and how they fell deeper the more they got to know each other.
I’m so glad I found this book, it was an absolute treat and I enjoyed every minute. It had everything I wanted and didn’t know I needed in a book. A well deserved five stars from me.
June 6, 2018
4.5* I just couldn’t put this book down once I got started! Max Hawthorn is now one of my one-click authors! As with her last book, Shield, this has all of my favorites in it – two great main characters who are smart, funny, strong in their own ways, and at least one is military / bodyguard / law enforcement. Great chemistry between the two leads and sexy times of course. The story itself was intriguing and kept you thinking "who done it?" until the end. I also enjoyed how straight forward both Jayden and Lucas where; if something was bothering them, they would think about it for a few hours and then discuss it.
Jayden is the ousted head of the Deus pharmaceuticals company that manufactures / distributes pediatric medicine. Lucas is the former Navy Seal turned professional bodyguard who is taking care of his sister and niece. His niece has a pre-existing condition that requires the use of medicine produced by Deus pharma that just keeps getting more expensive.
Jayden and Lucas met during a one-night stand in Portland right before Lucas’s world fell apart. One year later, someone is trying to kill Jayden. Lucas is hired as his bodyguard and, while Lucas has a major chip on his shoulder at the beginning about his niece’s med costs and Jayden’s wealth, both Jayden and Lucas quickly realize that one night was not enough.
Jayden is the ousted head of the Deus pharmaceuticals company that manufactures / distributes pediatric medicine. Lucas is the former Navy Seal turned professional bodyguard who is taking care of his sister and niece. His niece has a pre-existing condition that requires the use of medicine produced by Deus pharma that just keeps getting more expensive.
Jayden and Lucas met during a one-night stand in Portland right before Lucas’s world fell apart. One year later, someone is trying to kill Jayden. Lucas is hired as his bodyguard and, while Lucas has a major chip on his shoulder at the beginning about his niece’s med costs and Jayden’s wealth, both Jayden and Lucas quickly realize that one night was not enough.
June 16, 2018
Wowzers. This was hot and steamy with some action, intrigue, and mystery. I was loving every minute of reading this and didn't want to put it down. Jayden and Lucas had intense chemistry right from the first pages even if they were strangers and never expected to see the other again. The scene was totally smoking, but I could see just from the short lived bliss that Jayden needed this.
Of course, the reintroduction of the two characters caused some big questions. They both remembered each other and the incredible experience they both had, but Lucas was brought in as a bodyguard for Jayden after a threat on his life. They had trouble ignoring their feelings for each other, and eventually decided they couldn't let something so great pass them up.
The mystery was well written, and I was surprised at who all played a part in the death threats/attempts. I liked that I never really suspected all of the people. It was fun watching Lucas, as a former SEAL, people watch and make determinations of things based on observation.
I loved this book, and was so excited to see a new one by Max Hawthorn. I loved their first book, and I was not disappointed with this one. Max is on my list for to-buy authors moving forward.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC received by LesCourt Author Services
Of course, the reintroduction of the two characters caused some big questions. They both remembered each other and the incredible experience they both had, but Lucas was brought in as a bodyguard for Jayden after a threat on his life. They had trouble ignoring their feelings for each other, and eventually decided they couldn't let something so great pass them up.
The mystery was well written, and I was surprised at who all played a part in the death threats/attempts. I liked that I never really suspected all of the people. It was fun watching Lucas, as a former SEAL, people watch and make determinations of things based on observation.
I loved this book, and was so excited to see a new one by Max Hawthorn. I loved their first book, and I was not disappointed with this one. Max is on my list for to-buy authors moving forward.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC received by LesCourt Author Services
June 13, 2018
This is an absolutely amazing book, I love everything about it and I could not put it down. It is beautifully written, smoking hot, kinky, fast-paced, action packed and the characters are mesmerising. Max Hawthorn is able to pull me into this story and keep me engaged from start to finish just like she did with her previous book, Shield. Jayden and Lucas are complete opposites but they are perfect for each other. Lucas is big, lethal, protective, dominant, nurturing and loving. He is everything that Jayden wants if only he can convince Lucas that he can be more than his bodyguard. Jayden's wealth and position may be too much for Lucas to deal with but Jayden is determined to change his mind. Amid the death threats and attempts on Jayden's life they manage to find time to discover if their attraction and incredible chemistry is sustainable and if their kinks are compatible. They also communicate very well with each other so there aren't any misunderstandings or games between them which is very refreshing. This is one of the hottest books I have read and the chemistry and connection between Jayden and Lucas is so well done and believable. I love the secondary characters too and the ending is fabulous. I can't wait to read more books by Max Hawthorn.
June 16, 2018
*'¨✫)4.5 spice, 5+ heat
¸.•'¸.•*'¨)✯ ¸.•*¨)
✮ (¸.•'✶ (¸.•`So hot it burned my retinas!!
"One phone call tilted Jayden's world on its axis."
Now he was fighting for his life and that of the company he had inherited. It didn't help that the man hired to protect him was the one person he never thought he would see again.
"When the going gets tough, the tough gets going."
Jayden and Lucas proved that money was the root of all evil, a one night stand could last forever and to never look a gift horse in the mouth.
I was drawn into the intrigue and passionate nature of this book. Jayden, being a rich geek had money and was not afraid to use it. Lucas, his ex-military bodyguard was basically living paycheck to paycheck, helping his sister with her medically ill child. When Lucas realised Jayden was the man who had left an impression on him, he was not all that motivated. But, he had a job to do and he was going to do it well.
This was an exciting, fast-paced book that I would recommend to thriller seekers who want to dash hot, spicy romance to the suspense. One click, you won't be disappointed.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author through LesCourt.
¸.•'¸.•*'¨)✯ ¸.•*¨)
✮ (¸.•'✶ (¸.•`So hot it burned my retinas!!
"One phone call tilted Jayden's world on its axis."
Now he was fighting for his life and that of the company he had inherited. It didn't help that the man hired to protect him was the one person he never thought he would see again.
"When the going gets tough, the tough gets going."
Jayden and Lucas proved that money was the root of all evil, a one night stand could last forever and to never look a gift horse in the mouth.
I was drawn into the intrigue and passionate nature of this book. Jayden, being a rich geek had money and was not afraid to use it. Lucas, his ex-military bodyguard was basically living paycheck to paycheck, helping his sister with her medically ill child. When Lucas realised Jayden was the man who had left an impression on him, he was not all that motivated. But, he had a job to do and he was going to do it well.
This was an exciting, fast-paced book that I would recommend to thriller seekers who want to dash hot, spicy romance to the suspense. One click, you won't be disappointed.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author through LesCourt.
June 12, 2018
Defiant by Max Hawthorn is a fun love story packed with some mystery.
Jayden's life is being threatened and Lucas is hired to be his new bodyguard. Of course, it's a little weird that this is the guy from his hook-up a year ago.
Lucas originally hates Jayden. The unique thing with this story though, is that Lucas actually listens to Jayden and admits to making the wrong assumptions. It is refreshing to have men who actually are willing to listen to each other.
As for their sex, it is hot, it is intense and I love it. Jayden likes letting Lucas be in complete charge in the bedroom. He enjoys being able to let his mind go free for a while. Jayden loves that Lucas knows exactly what he wants. He feels safe with Lucas and can be himself with him instead of being who the rest of the world expects him to be.
The author does a fantastic job of creating some fun characters, a good romance, and a wonderful plot. The mystery of who is trying to kill Jayden is well done. The death threats keep coming and both men get closer to one another as they do.
I really enjoy Defiant and highly recommend it. Another great job by Max Hawthorne!
June 8, 2018
I received a copy of this from LesCourt Author Services. This is my honest opinion and review.
I liked this book and how the story played out. Jayden is a passionate character that wants to get back his father's company to save lives. He is tired of entitled rich people that are just trying to get more money and not make a difference in the world. He believes strongly in his ideas for the company's future. Now he has to stop whoever is trying to stop him. He won't back down, but he will be smart.
Lucas is struggling to help pay for his niece's medication. The company that makes the medication has been raising the prices over the last year. Now he has to protect the person he assumes is instigating the price increase and causing kids to die. He needs to get over his assumptions or possibly lose the best thing in his life. He is use to being in charge, the protector and the provider. How will he handle such a huge change in his life?
This is a good story that will keep your attention.
I liked this book and how the story played out. Jayden is a passionate character that wants to get back his father's company to save lives. He is tired of entitled rich people that are just trying to get more money and not make a difference in the world. He believes strongly in his ideas for the company's future. Now he has to stop whoever is trying to stop him. He won't back down, but he will be smart.
Lucas is struggling to help pay for his niece's medication. The company that makes the medication has been raising the prices over the last year. Now he has to protect the person he assumes is instigating the price increase and causing kids to die. He needs to get over his assumptions or possibly lose the best thing in his life. He is use to being in charge, the protector and the provider. How will he handle such a huge change in his life?
This is a good story that will keep your attention.
June 9, 2018
OMG, the heat on this one is off the scale. I mean, my fingers are still on fire from it. I just loved it.
Jayden is out and proud. What he's not so happy about is the fact that his dad outed him to his board, and when his dad died, the board of their company ousted Jayden before he even knew what was going on. Then they started raising the price on lifesaving medication. Now Jayden is fighting tooth, nail, and claw to get control of his dad's company back. Then he gets a death threat.
Lucas was a Navy SEAL. When his brother-in-law died, he left so he could help out his sister and her daughter. Her daughter has type 1 diabetes and her meds and supplies have all of a sudden started going up. When he gets assigned as a bodyguard to Jayden he realizes 2 things. One, Jayden's name is the same as the company that makes his niece's medication, and second, he and Jayden had a one night stand months ago across the country. And it's one that neither one of them forgot.
I will definitely be reading more by this author.
Jayden is out and proud. What he's not so happy about is the fact that his dad outed him to his board, and when his dad died, the board of their company ousted Jayden before he even knew what was going on. Then they started raising the price on lifesaving medication. Now Jayden is fighting tooth, nail, and claw to get control of his dad's company back. Then he gets a death threat.
Lucas was a Navy SEAL. When his brother-in-law died, he left so he could help out his sister and her daughter. Her daughter has type 1 diabetes and her meds and supplies have all of a sudden started going up. When he gets assigned as a bodyguard to Jayden he realizes 2 things. One, Jayden's name is the same as the company that makes his niece's medication, and second, he and Jayden had a one night stand months ago across the country. And it's one that neither one of them forgot.
I will definitely be reading more by this author.
September 20, 2018
Quibbles
I enjoyed Defiant very much. I will likely seek out and read more of Max Hawthorne’s work. But there were some quibbles I had which kept niggling in my mind as I read. First- the exchange of “negative?” Yep, “negative” before we’re off to the races without condoms. As a gay male M/M romance reader I confess that talk of condoms and lube does tend to bring romance to a halt (depending on how the author handles it). But HIV isn’t the only STI out there with which sexually active consenting (nay I say even “responsible”?) adults should be aware and/or concerned. I’d have respected these two leads had there been even a bit more discretion and testing discussed before the hasty dispense with condoms! Second- we seemed to get to everlasting love and devotion too quickly for my taste. There was a swell set up to open the story which could have been used to draw out more angst or seeing that initial meeting as fodder for some playful banter. Overall a strong and enjoyable book.
I enjoyed Defiant very much. I will likely seek out and read more of Max Hawthorne’s work. But there were some quibbles I had which kept niggling in my mind as I read. First- the exchange of “negative?” Yep, “negative” before we’re off to the races without condoms. As a gay male M/M romance reader I confess that talk of condoms and lube does tend to bring romance to a halt (depending on how the author handles it). But HIV isn’t the only STI out there with which sexually active consenting (nay I say even “responsible”?) adults should be aware and/or concerned. I’d have respected these two leads had there been even a bit more discretion and testing discussed before the hasty dispense with condoms! Second- we seemed to get to everlasting love and devotion too quickly for my taste. There was a swell set up to open the story which could have been used to draw out more angst or seeing that initial meeting as fodder for some playful banter. Overall a strong and enjoyable book.
June 15, 2018
Holy Crap on a cracker. I absolutely devoured this book.
This is an amazing book, I could not put it down like I read it one sitting threated anyone who tried to distract me.
This book had it all, it was smoking hot from page 1 to the end, it had lots of kinky sex (melt your pages), it was fast-paced, with lots of action, and the characters are amazing and loving and oh you just want to hug them. Jayden and Lucas are complete opposites you have a scientist and a solder/bodyguard. Man are they are perfect for each other. Lucas is big, lethal, protective, dominant, nurturing and loving. He is everything that Jayden needs in his life. If only Jayden could convince Lucas that he can be more than his bodyguard. Jayden's wealth at times seems to be too much for Lucas to deal with, but Jayden is determined to change his mind.
This is an amazing book, I could not put it down like I read it one sitting threated anyone who tried to distract me.
This book had it all, it was smoking hot from page 1 to the end, it had lots of kinky sex (melt your pages), it was fast-paced, with lots of action, and the characters are amazing and loving and oh you just want to hug them. Jayden and Lucas are complete opposites you have a scientist and a solder/bodyguard. Man are they are perfect for each other. Lucas is big, lethal, protective, dominant, nurturing and loving. He is everything that Jayden needs in his life. If only Jayden could convince Lucas that he can be more than his bodyguard. Jayden's wealth at times seems to be too much for Lucas to deal with, but Jayden is determined to change his mind.
June 17, 2018
This book was full of wonderful things, such as action, mystery, romance, and lots and lots of sexy times! Jayden was the poor little rich boy, wealthy but vulnerable, unsure of who he could trust to care about him rather than his money. Lucas was loyal to his family, but he didn't trust people with so much wealth that it kept them out of touch with the real world as Lucas knew it. Their attraction, though, was off the charts, and they began to whittle away at each other's doubts. Meanwhile, someone really wanted to kill Jayden, and Lucas was the bodyguard-slash-lover determined to keep that from happening. These characters were people I easily cared about, the story was terrific, and the sex scenes were inspired. I really loved this book!
March 3, 2019
Nice easy read with HEA
I liked the plot idea for Jayden and Lucas. Their story was a bit of a mixed bag for me and lacking character depth. The story starts with the initial bathroom scene hook-up and then jumps a year. There's a brief background character i.e.parents, however nothing overly detailed. Jayden receives death threats and Lucas becomes his bodyguard, followed quickly by becoming his lover. The sex involves light BDSM elements of tying up Jayden and mild spanking. The story includes the mystery of who is sending the letters, which is difficult to guess the 'real' whodunnit owing to their placement in the story. Overall, the story is a relatively easy read and shouldn't cause any undue angst. Nice HEA and Christmas presents.
I liked the plot idea for Jayden and Lucas. Their story was a bit of a mixed bag for me and lacking character depth. The story starts with the initial bathroom scene hook-up and then jumps a year. There's a brief background character i.e.parents, however nothing overly detailed. Jayden receives death threats and Lucas becomes his bodyguard, followed quickly by becoming his lover. The sex involves light BDSM elements of tying up Jayden and mild spanking. The story includes the mystery of who is sending the letters, which is difficult to guess the 'real' whodunnit owing to their placement in the story. Overall, the story is a relatively easy read and shouldn't cause any undue angst. Nice HEA and Christmas presents.
March 3, 2020
So real it was unreal
Never have I met more emotionally mature characters. They had problems. Almost insurmountable problems. REAL almost insurmountable problems. How did they overcome them? They TALKED. Holy cow they actually talked through their problems like people should but almost never do.
The sexy scenes were AMAZING. They had real chemistry. Their personalities complimented beautifully on a romantic level. These two MCs were just great.
Story wise it was pretty compelling. Not too much going on that there was confusion but enough that you want to see it through. Very enjoyable from beginning to end.
Never have I met more emotionally mature characters. They had problems. Almost insurmountable problems. REAL almost insurmountable problems. How did they overcome them? They TALKED. Holy cow they actually talked through their problems like people should but almost never do.
The sexy scenes were AMAZING. They had real chemistry. Their personalities complimented beautifully on a romantic level. These two MCs were just great.
Story wise it was pretty compelling. Not too much going on that there was confusion but enough that you want to see it through. Very enjoyable from beginning to end.
June 10, 2018
Deliciously kinky...
The blurb of this book caught my attention immediately. I mean, hot, ex SEAL bodyguard who also happens to be a previous, anonymous hookup... and anyway while reading the book it was Jayden'd character that called to me the most. His strength, determination and will to fight for what he believes in.
The story is a well plotted one, I will only say this to avoid giving away the plot...
And as for the kinky part, some scenes are so hot that you may want to avoid being in public while reading them!
The blurb of this book caught my attention immediately. I mean, hot, ex SEAL bodyguard who also happens to be a previous, anonymous hookup... and anyway while reading the book it was Jayden'd character that called to me the most. His strength, determination and will to fight for what he believes in.
The story is a well plotted one, I will only say this to avoid giving away the plot...
And as for the kinky part, some scenes are so hot that you may want to avoid being in public while reading them!
June 16, 2018
I love bodyguard stories, and Defiant had everything I enjoy about them - a strong alpha male protector, a protectee strong in his own right, action, suspense, steamy moments, and love. Jayden's world turns upside down the same night he and Lucas meet for the first time, though they don't know who the other is and don't see each other for a year after. When Lucas is brought on to protect Jayden, things quickly heat up even though they fight it. I love the characterization of both MCs, and the chemistry they have? Off. The. Charts! This book is hot. Definitely recommend!
June 15, 2018
mmm... holy hottness this was amazing. i loved loved loved it.. it was tasty... and the sexual tension between them is amazing.. the writing was so much fun and if you don't enjoy like 95% sex in your stories this isn't your story. haha.. i loved it.. it was well written.. i smiled.. it made me happy and oh it was just hott! these two characters are superb.. they have issues and have to grow.. they are sexy and amazing as individuals and together.
July 9, 2018
Awesome Read
This was an awesome read. I enjoyed it and look forward to more from this author. There were a couple of small blunders..like criss crossing the names..getting Lucas and Jayden mixed up a few times and you could tell the author was British, because of the few British sayings and words that hopped into the story. Besides that it was a great book and I enjoyed reading Lucas and Jayden's story. I will definitely read more from Max Hawthorn.
This was an awesome read. I enjoyed it and look forward to more from this author. There were a couple of small blunders..like criss crossing the names..getting Lucas and Jayden mixed up a few times and you could tell the author was British, because of the few British sayings and words that hopped into the story. Besides that it was a great book and I enjoyed reading Lucas and Jayden's story. I will definitely read more from Max Hawthorn.
October 6, 2018
Well, I loved this book. Jayden and Lucas’ love for one another was almost tangible. I could feel it through the authors words. The way Lucas worshipped Jayden’s body, breathtaking. Rarely do I get the pleasure to read such a profound intimate moment. Yeah, I’ve read plenty of erotica but the scenes in this book felt like more, actually I guess I could feel the love. Anyways, I’m a sap for HEA and this book doesn’t disappoint.
June 7, 2018
Really great read
I've always enjoyed Max Hawthorn's books and this one is another good one. The characters had out of this world chemistry, the storyline is strong, and the writing flows perfectly. I would have liked it more if there was more of a build up between the characters before they jumped into a relationship, but it didn't take away from all the promises of this book.
I've always enjoyed Max Hawthorn's books and this one is another good one. The characters had out of this world chemistry, the storyline is strong, and the writing flows perfectly. I would have liked it more if there was more of a build up between the characters before they jumped into a relationship, but it didn't take away from all the promises of this book.
June 14, 2018
I love this story! Action, steamy and kinky moments, great story-line and characters you fall in love with! Romance with a great plot! Writing flows nicely and you will become engrossed in the story and not put it down.
Jayden and Lucas are really perfect together and from their first meeting to their happy ending i enjoyed their interactions. This book has it all for me!
Jayden and Lucas are really perfect together and from their first meeting to their happy ending i enjoyed their interactions. This book has it all for me!
June 15, 2018
I loved Defiant. What's not to love? There is mystery, chemistry that is off the charts and a great story.
Jayden and Lucas are perfect together. They are complete opposites but just work together. Their connection is obvious.
The story is also filled with great secondary characters. I really couldn't put this book down once I started! I'm looking forward to more from Max Hawthorn!
Jayden and Lucas are perfect together. They are complete opposites but just work together. Their connection is obvious.
The story is also filled with great secondary characters. I really couldn't put this book down once I started! I'm looking forward to more from Max Hawthorn!
June 16, 2018
I like a love story with a mystery thrown in. This story flowed well and it kept my attention for a one sitting read. It was fun, snarky, passionate and a nice mystery story. I thought it wrapped up a little bit fast, but didn't leave anything unresolved so it was fine. I would pick up another Max Hawthorn book based on how much I enjoyed this one. Thanks for the advanced copy.
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