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Kings of Sydney #2
King's Rule
The second book in the red-hot Kings of Sydney series finds Xander King working with his sexy stepsister, Poppy. But can he keep his dark past hidden when their sizzling chemistry takes them from the boardroom to the bedroom?I don’t know what’s hating my stepsister or lusting after her. I knew that hiring Poppy could be a mistake, but what choice did I have? Nobody else wants to work with a King—my crime lord father made sure of that before my brothers and I sent him to prison.It’s not all bad, though; Poppy is a little more open-minded than I remember. It turns out my attraction to her isn’t completely one-sided—apparently, she finds my authority as exciting as I find her body. The animosity between us only makes it more exhilarating…But a dark secret from my past could ruin everything. Poppy’s father used to work with mine, and I know more about his death than she guesses. I’ve been living with the guilt for years, and now that I’m so close to Poppy every day, I don’t know how much longer I can hide it. I could tell her everything and risk our thrillingly wild fling—but am I willing to give up something that feels so good?Sexy. Passionate. Bold. Discover Harlequin Dare, a new line of fun, edgy and sexually explicit romances for the fearless female.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2019
28 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Ashenden
487 books976 followersJackie has been writing fiction since she was eleven years old. Mild mannered fantasy/SF/pseudo-literary writer by day, obsessive romance writer by night, she used to balance her writing with the more serious job of librarianship until a chance meeting with another romance writer prompted her to throw off the shackles of her day job and devote herself to the true love of her heart – writing romance. She particularly likes to write dark, emotional stories with alpha heroes who've just got the world to their liking only to have it blown wide apart by their kick-ass heroines.
She lives in Auckland, New Zealand with her husband, the inimitable Dr Jax, two kids, two cats and some guppies (possibly dead guppies by the time you read this). When she's not torturing alpha males and their stroppy heroines, she can be found drinking chocolate martinis, reading anything she can lay her hands on, posting random crap on her blog, or being forced to go mountain biking with her husband.
She lives in Auckland, New Zealand with her husband, the inimitable Dr Jax, two kids, two cats and some guppies (possibly dead guppies by the time you read this). When she's not torturing alpha males and their stroppy heroines, she can be found drinking chocolate martinis, reading anything she can lay her hands on, posting random crap on her blog, or being forced to go mountain biking with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
January 1, 2019
What I loved about the book is that it ended in a parallel way of how it began. I am a huge fan of that trope and it was one of the book's good parts. Overall though, the book was mediocre. I would have liked to see more conflict, especially on the "we were brother and sister even if we weren't blood-related" part of the plot. Xander is looking after Poppy and her mother as he promised his father that he would do, but other than that one could even forget that these two have shared some history with each other. The getting together part was easy and they fell into bed very quickly considering that Xander "hates" her and she doesn't want to be there. The thing that bugged me the most is that Xander's secret was not something that I would even consider that was his fault and that will make him guilty. I was expecting something with more impact. Poppy is also carrying a lot of guilt and she is not at fault here either, so that in my mind made them a suitable couple. King's rules is a hit or miss book in my opinion and you will have to pick it up and see for yourself if it's the book for you.
July 5, 2019
2.5 stars
Decent enough read. The bickering didn't last for too long. They both had their vulnerabilities. Also, when the H revealed the truth about his "involvement" in what happened to her father, Poppy didn't respond in the way I expected so that was refreshing.
I really only read this one because I wanted to read the next in the series.
Decent enough read. The bickering didn't last for too long. They both had their vulnerabilities. Also, when the H revealed the truth about his "involvement" in what happened to her father, Poppy didn't respond in the way I expected so that was refreshing.
I really only read this one because I wanted to read the next in the series.
March 17, 2019
Jackie Ashenden is one of my favourite authors, her heroes are so dam tough and hard but always underneath is that loving caring hero and her heroines are strong and vulnerable and this book has both, I am really enjoying this series and getting to know Xander and Poppy was very enjoyable, and steamy hot, the pages could become a light, you will need a fan to keep you cool.
Xander King is determined to right a wrong that he is convinced he caused years ago and to do that she needs a good PA to work with and no one will work with the King family, so he insists on hiring is step-sister Poppy, the girl he really hates but there is no other option. This could mean a very rocky time for Xander.
Poppy is furious when Xander demands that she work for him, but in the end she has no choice, working for the man that she has never liked since her mother married his father when she was ten years old, their relationship has always been a feisty one, but now there is a pull that she cannot ignore.
This story is very erotic, steamy and with a controlling Xander pushing Poppy although not without her enjoying what is happening between them, they have a lot from their pasts that needs to be sorted both feel responsible for a death, both have had terrible childhoods and both have felt alone most of their lives, but when their sensual desire for each other explodes this causes their emotions to open up and heal, they say that there is a very thin line between love and hate, this is one that I highly recommend.
Xander King is determined to right a wrong that he is convinced he caused years ago and to do that she needs a good PA to work with and no one will work with the King family, so he insists on hiring is step-sister Poppy, the girl he really hates but there is no other option. This could mean a very rocky time for Xander.
Poppy is furious when Xander demands that she work for him, but in the end she has no choice, working for the man that she has never liked since her mother married his father when she was ten years old, their relationship has always been a feisty one, but now there is a pull that she cannot ignore.
This story is very erotic, steamy and with a controlling Xander pushing Poppy although not without her enjoying what is happening between them, they have a lot from their pasts that needs to be sorted both feel responsible for a death, both have had terrible childhoods and both have felt alone most of their lives, but when their sensual desire for each other explodes this causes their emotions to open up and heal, they say that there is a very thin line between love and hate, this is one that I highly recommend.
November 6, 2018
The author had me engaged from the start, the banter between Poppy and Xander was fun to read - although I should add the silent 'I hate him' and 'I hate her' each kept stating at the beginning was a little annoying - luckily it didn't occur for too long (I think if it had this review would have been drastically different).
There is a really good level of steam between Poppy and Xander, which the author writes really well, and when it gets going it was fab. I also like the emotional intimacy between them once they let their barriers down.
My small niggles are as follows: I do wish it was a tad longer (but that is so often the way when I enjoy something), and would have really liked it if the epilogue had been teased out, it felt a little rushed/fast, but what I read I really enjoyed.
It's been a really long time since I've picked up a new Mills and Boon book and I'm glad I did. The first time I tried reading this I just wasn't in the space/mind set for it so put it away, yesterday I certainly was.
I can see myself re-reading this so I am going to wait until its officially released and the price goes down just tad before purchasing.
I received a ARC from NetGalley and I'm glad I did since its introduced me to Jackie Ashenden.
There is a really good level of steam between Poppy and Xander, which the author writes really well, and when it gets going it was fab. I also like the emotional intimacy between them once they let their barriers down.
My small niggles are as follows: I do wish it was a tad longer (but that is so often the way when I enjoy something), and would have really liked it if the epilogue had been teased out, it felt a little rushed/fast, but what I read I really enjoyed.
It's been a really long time since I've picked up a new Mills and Boon book and I'm glad I did. The first time I tried reading this I just wasn't in the space/mind set for it so put it away, yesterday I certainly was.
I can see myself re-reading this so I am going to wait until its officially released and the price goes down just tad before purchasing.
I received a ARC from NetGalley and I'm glad I did since its introduced me to Jackie Ashenden.
December 29, 2018
As I usually do, l'll state at the outset that I am seriously addicted to Jackie Ashenden's books, her dominant heroes, her submissive heroines, her sizzling sex scenes and her smart, often snarky, and deeply felt romances. Having said that, and having been absolutely over the moon about the first book in her Kings of Sydney series, King's Price, I found this second book in the series didn't quite measure up to it, and am giving it a 4-star rating.
While I enjoy both the enemies-to-lovers trope, as well as the stepbrother/stepsister trope, and this novel includes both, plus a small slice of BDSM, this novel got off to a bit of a rocky start. Told in alternating narration, Xander King, starts by stating that he hates Poppy Valentine, his stepsister. They first met when Xander's was 15, and his father, now in prison for a multitude of criminal acts, brought home his new wife, Lily, and her 10-year-old daughter, Poppy. At first, Xander was eager to have to little sister, but her sullen, rude, sarcastic and snarky behavior didn't endear her to him, although he was certainly impressed by her beauty. His fascination with her only grew over the years, and his solution to wanting her desperately was to ignore her entirely.
Xander and his brothers have been trying to legitimize their father's corrupt business dealings, and, as the CFO of the corporation, Xander, who was unwittingly the reason his father was able to take other people's money, hide it where it couldn't be found, and keep his criminal dealings secret for so long, is now trying to undo the damage his father did, especially the damage done to Poppy's father, who committed suicide when his business went broke, and whose death weighs heavily on Xander's conscience. When Xander's personal assistant quits, he needs someone to fill in until he can find a suitable replacement, and, playing his cards very close to his vest, he manages to manipulate an unwilling Poppy into taking the job, and it doesn't take long for the sparks to fly, Xander's dominance to make itself known, and for Poppy to attempt her own brand of manipulation on Xander, but fall prey to his, and that's when the sparks burst into a wildfire that just might consume them both, and few authors out there accomplish this as well as Ms. Ashenden does. What we soon learn is that both main characters have been and still are hiding their vulnerabilities, and that their vulnerabilities aren't all as different as they seem to believe.
For every time I've reviewed a novel and complained of wishing for more drama and angst, King's Rule made up for it in spades. As usual, the only downside for me is the same one I always feel when I read a Harlequin Dare novel, I wanted more time for the story line, the romance between Xander and Poppy, as well as the expected HEA ending to fully develop. I always find that the endings in Dare novels are too abrupt, which is more of an issue I have with parameters of the Dare imprint (short, fast, hot, and sexy) than it is with the authors who write for it. Ms. Ashenden succeeds in making these characters deep, complex, and intriguing, and I just wish, as I always do, that the word limit of this imprint hadn't stifled her ability to fully allow the romance between these two characters to blossom in ways that took it outside the bedroom.
To fully understand the King family dynamic, I strongly suggest reading this series in the order written. I will also warn you that there is more than little graphic sex with BDSM overtones in this novel, making it definitely one for the mature reader. As for Ajax, the last of King brothers, I am eagerly awaiting his story, and will probably devour it as quickly as I did King's Price and King's Rule. I recommend both.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of the novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
While I enjoy both the enemies-to-lovers trope, as well as the stepbrother/stepsister trope, and this novel includes both, plus a small slice of BDSM, this novel got off to a bit of a rocky start. Told in alternating narration, Xander King, starts by stating that he hates Poppy Valentine, his stepsister. They first met when Xander's was 15, and his father, now in prison for a multitude of criminal acts, brought home his new wife, Lily, and her 10-year-old daughter, Poppy. At first, Xander was eager to have to little sister, but her sullen, rude, sarcastic and snarky behavior didn't endear her to him, although he was certainly impressed by her beauty. His fascination with her only grew over the years, and his solution to wanting her desperately was to ignore her entirely.
Xander and his brothers have been trying to legitimize their father's corrupt business dealings, and, as the CFO of the corporation, Xander, who was unwittingly the reason his father was able to take other people's money, hide it where it couldn't be found, and keep his criminal dealings secret for so long, is now trying to undo the damage his father did, especially the damage done to Poppy's father, who committed suicide when his business went broke, and whose death weighs heavily on Xander's conscience. When Xander's personal assistant quits, he needs someone to fill in until he can find a suitable replacement, and, playing his cards very close to his vest, he manages to manipulate an unwilling Poppy into taking the job, and it doesn't take long for the sparks to fly, Xander's dominance to make itself known, and for Poppy to attempt her own brand of manipulation on Xander, but fall prey to his, and that's when the sparks burst into a wildfire that just might consume them both, and few authors out there accomplish this as well as Ms. Ashenden does. What we soon learn is that both main characters have been and still are hiding their vulnerabilities, and that their vulnerabilities aren't all as different as they seem to believe.
For every time I've reviewed a novel and complained of wishing for more drama and angst, King's Rule made up for it in spades. As usual, the only downside for me is the same one I always feel when I read a Harlequin Dare novel, I wanted more time for the story line, the romance between Xander and Poppy, as well as the expected HEA ending to fully develop. I always find that the endings in Dare novels are too abrupt, which is more of an issue I have with parameters of the Dare imprint (short, fast, hot, and sexy) than it is with the authors who write for it. Ms. Ashenden succeeds in making these characters deep, complex, and intriguing, and I just wish, as I always do, that the word limit of this imprint hadn't stifled her ability to fully allow the romance between these two characters to blossom in ways that took it outside the bedroom.
To fully understand the King family dynamic, I strongly suggest reading this series in the order written. I will also warn you that there is more than little graphic sex with BDSM overtones in this novel, making it definitely one for the mature reader. As for Ajax, the last of King brothers, I am eagerly awaiting his story, and will probably devour it as quickly as I did King's Price and King's Rule. I recommend both.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of the novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
November 3, 2018
Sexy and hot enough to melt my kindle! Xander is the hot and brooding guy who has been cleaning up his father's mess for years and Poppy is the unloved throwaway girl that acts out to hurt others before they can hurt her. When they are together, their interactions practically combust and ignite the pages.
Normally, I'm not fond of the step-brother/step-sister trope, but I loved this book. I loved the interactions between Xander and Poppy and how they both struggled to overcome their pasts - especially how they endured and fit their broken pieces together to become whole.
If you enjoy a sexy romance, you will love this book. Put this one at the top of your TBR list. The author is on my must read authors' list.
Normally, I'm not fond of the step-brother/step-sister trope, but I loved this book. I loved the interactions between Xander and Poppy and how they both struggled to overcome their pasts - especially how they endured and fit their broken pieces together to become whole.
If you enjoy a sexy romance, you will love this book. Put this one at the top of your TBR list. The author is on my must read authors' list.
January 2, 2019
King's Rule by Jackie Ashenden is book Two in the Kings of Sydney Series. This is the story of Poppy and Xander. I haven't yet read the previous book, so for me this was a standalone book.
Xander 'talks' Poppy into take a job with him but knows its gonna be hard working with her and his desire for her. Poppy is a handful herself with how she deal with her issues but the one thing they seem to be finding out is that they can not ignore the sexual tension between the them any more.
Enjoyed this hot love story.
Xander 'talks' Poppy into take a job with him but knows its gonna be hard working with her and his desire for her. Poppy is a handful herself with how she deal with her issues but the one thing they seem to be finding out is that they can not ignore the sexual tension between the them any more.
Enjoyed this hot love story.
December 17, 2018
King’s Rule by Jackie Ashenden is the second story in her Kings of Sydney series and a searing erotic romance with a forbidden love theme – step-siblings who as adults can no longer deny their attraction to each other.
Life took an unexpected turn for fifteen year old Xander King when his father remarried and he gained a ten year old step-sister, Poppy. From their first meeting they were at odds and kept out of each other’s way. When Poppy turned eighteen, Xander noticed her as a woman, but did nothing outwardly to show his changing feelings towards her.
A few years later, Xander and his brothers have successfully taken down their father and are trying to clear their family name from the crimes in which their father was involved. They’re having trouble hiring staff, and with few to trust, Xander offers Poppy a deal. If she’ll come to work with him as his personal assistant for a few months, he’ll put in a good word for her with an architectural internship. Poppy needs the money as she’s the sole support for her mother who, despite getting a generous allowance every month from the King family, spends more than she has. Her mother thinks Poppy should use her looks to get a sugar daddy like she did, but Poppy isn’t interested. She wants to use her designing skills to get a good job. For now, she’ll take what Xander offers.
But being in close quarters and unable to avoid each other, the truth of their mutual attraction comes out, and it leads to sexual exploration and a new emotional intimacy. Can it also lead to a happy ever after?
For more of this review please visit Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-ki...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Life took an unexpected turn for fifteen year old Xander King when his father remarried and he gained a ten year old step-sister, Poppy. From their first meeting they were at odds and kept out of each other’s way. When Poppy turned eighteen, Xander noticed her as a woman, but did nothing outwardly to show his changing feelings towards her.
A few years later, Xander and his brothers have successfully taken down their father and are trying to clear their family name from the crimes in which their father was involved. They’re having trouble hiring staff, and with few to trust, Xander offers Poppy a deal. If she’ll come to work with him as his personal assistant for a few months, he’ll put in a good word for her with an architectural internship. Poppy needs the money as she’s the sole support for her mother who, despite getting a generous allowance every month from the King family, spends more than she has. Her mother thinks Poppy should use her looks to get a sugar daddy like she did, but Poppy isn’t interested. She wants to use her designing skills to get a good job. For now, she’ll take what Xander offers.
But being in close quarters and unable to avoid each other, the truth of their mutual attraction comes out, and it leads to sexual exploration and a new emotional intimacy. Can it also lead to a happy ever after?
For more of this review please visit Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-ki...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
January 7, 2019
This contemporary romance keeps readers well entertained throughout as a billionaire and his stepsister navigate a hate / love relationship. Xander and Poppy are strong characters that stand out as they draw readers into their story. The relationship between is earthquake shaky and full of snark, attitude, stubborn clashes and sizzling chemistry. The passion burns hot both in their heated arguments and during their intimate times together and the emotional turmoil that takes place during this relationship is quite intense. Readers can’t practically feel the energy between Xander and Poppy leap off the pages as they go head to head in battle, well actually the energy can be felt throughout the story no matter what the couple is doing.
The plot is fast paced and keeps readers well entertained with some chuckle worthy events, some heart tugging events and quite a bit of suspense as both characters are holding back due to past events and secrets that they don’t want to let go of. But on the down side of that, readers may find some of the antics between Xander and Poppy to be a bit overdone, although this can easily be overlooked due to the fact that it is also quite amusing and there is enough of the sweet and romantic fall in love events to balance it out, which keeps readers turning the pages.
The plot is fast paced and keeps readers well entertained with some chuckle worthy events, some heart tugging events and quite a bit of suspense as both characters are holding back due to past events and secrets that they don’t want to let go of. But on the down side of that, readers may find some of the antics between Xander and Poppy to be a bit overdone, although this can easily be overlooked due to the fact that it is also quite amusing and there is enough of the sweet and romantic fall in love events to balance it out, which keeps readers turning the pages.
November 7, 2018
I am seriously so obsessed with Jackie Ashenden's books. They are always super sexy and riveting and and I never want them to end. Combine her talent with the hot and sexy chemistry always found in Harlequin's Dare brand and it is a perfect combination!
King's Rule was so hot and intense and filled to the brim with everything I love in enemies to lovers stories. The banter was combustible and electrifying and the passion was intense. I loved how both Poppy and Xander had a vulnerable side that came out and how ultimately they were each other's safe space. I did think the ending and conflict resolution was a little rushed but all in all this was fantastic. I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. Bravo! 3.5 stars! ~Ratula
King's Rule was so hot and intense and filled to the brim with everything I love in enemies to lovers stories. The banter was combustible and electrifying and the passion was intense. I loved how both Poppy and Xander had a vulnerable side that came out and how ultimately they were each other's safe space. I did think the ending and conflict resolution was a little rushed but all in all this was fantastic. I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. Bravo! 3.5 stars! ~Ratula
December 30, 2018
King's Rule (Kings of Sydney) by Jackie Ashenden
A tempestuous romance with a hint of taboo. King's Rule reminds just how bold Ashenden can be. There's danger in his eyes and lust in his heart. Xander is every woman's fantasy until he opens his mouth. He idles at brash, but looks hot while doing so. Poppy is the distraction, he doesn't want and the heartache, he knows he'll regret. Can he keep his distance before he loses more than his heart? The flaws are on constant display with Ashenden's band of alpha men. The scars run deep, but the passion never disappoints and neither do the stories.
A tempestuous romance with a hint of taboo. King's Rule reminds just how bold Ashenden can be. There's danger in his eyes and lust in his heart. Xander is every woman's fantasy until he opens his mouth. He idles at brash, but looks hot while doing so. Poppy is the distraction, he doesn't want and the heartache, he knows he'll regret. Can he keep his distance before he loses more than his heart? The flaws are on constant display with Ashenden's band of alpha men. The scars run deep, but the passion never disappoints and neither do the stories.
January 10, 2019
I was given an ARC in exchange of my honest review.
Xander King is running his father's company after he went to jail. In need of assistant he thinks of his step-sister.
Poppy Valentine is Xander step-sister that he offers a temporary job. He feels guilty that her father had committed because of his father.
However Poppy wants nothing to do with the King family until Xander offers the one thing that she really wants . An internship at Jordan Architectural.
An intense love/hate relationship
Their interactions will set the pages on fire!!!
Jackie Ashenden will not disappoint her readers!!!! .
Xander King is running his father's company after he went to jail. In need of assistant he thinks of his step-sister.
Poppy Valentine is Xander step-sister that he offers a temporary job. He feels guilty that her father had committed because of his father.
However Poppy wants nothing to do with the King family until Xander offers the one thing that she really wants . An internship at Jordan Architectural.
An intense love/hate relationship
Their interactions will set the pages on fire!!!
Jackie Ashenden will not disappoint her readers!!!! .
November 17, 2018
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to authors. (netgalley)I am a fan of Jackie's books, not all of them but a lot of them, This book was ok, after we get pst the he hated her and she hated him the story starts rolling. However I am not a fan dom/sub stories, just me to each there own, but that is just not cup of tea, that all being said it was an entertaining book.
December 8, 2018
King's Rule is an enemies to lovers and step-brother romance that I found quite enjoyable. I loved the connection and chemistry between Xander and Poppy and the way it all unfolded. I enjoyed their journey and would recommend this book to those who love a mix of characters who dislike each other with a mix of taboo.
Copy provided by publisher through Net Galley
Copy provided by publisher through Net Galley
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January 2, 2019Miniseries: Kings of Sydney
January 14, 2019
Good read
While I didn't like either of these people at first I gave them a chance. The book was a good emotional sexy read.
While I didn't like either of these people at first I gave them a chance. The book was a good emotional sexy read.
December 31, 2018
3.5 stars
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 1, 2019
I don’t know what’s worse: hating my stepsister or lusting after her. I knew that hiring Poppy could be a mistake, but what choice did I have? Nobody else wants to work with a King—my crime lord father made sure of that before my brothers and I sent him to prison.
It’s not all bad, though; Poppy is a little more open-minded than I remember. It turns out my attraction to her isn’t completely one-sided—apparently, she finds my authority as exciting as I find her body. The animosity between us only makes it more exhilarating…
But a dark secret from my past could ruin everything. Poppy’s father used to work with mine, and I know more about his death than she guesses. I’ve been living with the guilt for years, and now that I’m so close to Poppy every day, I don’t know how much longer I can hide it.
I could tell her everything and risk our thrillingly wild fling—but am I willing to give up something that feels so good?
••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars--KING’S RULE is the second instalment in Jackie Ashenden’s contemporary, adult KINGS OF SYDNEY erotic, romance series focusing on the King siblings of Sydney, Australia. This is thirty-year old investment whiz Xander King, and twenty-five year old architect graduate Poppy Valentine’s story line. KING’S RULE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalment is revealed where necessary.
NOTE: KING’S RULE contains scenes of discipline and spanking, Domination and submission, that may not be suitable for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Xander and Poppy) KING’S RULE follows the acrimonious relationship between step-siblings, thirty year old investment whiz Xander King, and twenty-five year old architect graduate Poppy Valentine. Months earlier, the King brothers took over their father’s real-estate business, a business with ties to the local mob. With their father now in jail for money laundering and fraud, Xander, Leon and Ajax King struggle to clean up a reputation inherited based upon sins of the past but what Xander never expected was to come face to face with his father’s step-daughter, a woman who, for years, has pushed all of Xander’s buttons-both good and bad. Enter Poppy Valentine, architect graduate, and a woman desperate in more ways than one. What ensues is the enemies to lovers relationship between Poppy and Xander, and the potential fall-out as Xander wants nothing more than a friends with benefits affair, leaving Poppy struggling to make sense of it all.
Xander has a secret that if revealed would likely destroy the tentative hold he has on our story line heroine. Broken and hurt, blaming herself for her father’s death, Poppy battles between head and heart feeling as though she has surrendered her soul to the Devil, himself.
The relationship between Xander and Poppy is tempestuous, at best, ever since a ten-year old Poppy found herself the step-sister to Leon, Xander and Ajax King. From the outset Poppy struggled to fit into the family, a family she refused to accept or love. Hurt, humiliated and grieving, Poppy would make Xander’s life miserable right from the start, misery disguised to hide a growing attraction to her new elder step-brother. A distinct lack of maturity, and the ever-present sibling squabbles was exhausting; the back and forth aggression, and onslaught of emotional tirades left something to be desired. The $ex scenes are erotic and intense.
The secondary and supporting characters are colorful and energetic. We are reintroduced to Xander’s brothers Leon and Ajax, as well as the introduction of Poppy’s mother Lily Valentine.
KING’S RULE is a story of family, heart break, blackmail and love. The premise is dramatic and energetic; the romance is erotic; the characters are immature, broken and struggling to fit.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 1, 2019
I don’t know what’s worse: hating my stepsister or lusting after her. I knew that hiring Poppy could be a mistake, but what choice did I have? Nobody else wants to work with a King—my crime lord father made sure of that before my brothers and I sent him to prison.
It’s not all bad, though; Poppy is a little more open-minded than I remember. It turns out my attraction to her isn’t completely one-sided—apparently, she finds my authority as exciting as I find her body. The animosity between us only makes it more exhilarating…
But a dark secret from my past could ruin everything. Poppy’s father used to work with mine, and I know more about his death than she guesses. I’ve been living with the guilt for years, and now that I’m so close to Poppy every day, I don’t know how much longer I can hide it.
I could tell her everything and risk our thrillingly wild fling—but am I willing to give up something that feels so good?
••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars--KING’S RULE is the second instalment in Jackie Ashenden’s contemporary, adult KINGS OF SYDNEY erotic, romance series focusing on the King siblings of Sydney, Australia. This is thirty-year old investment whiz Xander King, and twenty-five year old architect graduate Poppy Valentine’s story line. KING’S RULE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalment is revealed where necessary.
NOTE: KING’S RULE contains scenes of discipline and spanking, Domination and submission, that may not be suitable for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Xander and Poppy) KING’S RULE follows the acrimonious relationship between step-siblings, thirty year old investment whiz Xander King, and twenty-five year old architect graduate Poppy Valentine. Months earlier, the King brothers took over their father’s real-estate business, a business with ties to the local mob. With their father now in jail for money laundering and fraud, Xander, Leon and Ajax King struggle to clean up a reputation inherited based upon sins of the past but what Xander never expected was to come face to face with his father’s step-daughter, a woman who, for years, has pushed all of Xander’s buttons-both good and bad. Enter Poppy Valentine, architect graduate, and a woman desperate in more ways than one. What ensues is the enemies to lovers relationship between Poppy and Xander, and the potential fall-out as Xander wants nothing more than a friends with benefits affair, leaving Poppy struggling to make sense of it all.
Xander has a secret that if revealed would likely destroy the tentative hold he has on our story line heroine. Broken and hurt, blaming herself for her father’s death, Poppy battles between head and heart feeling as though she has surrendered her soul to the Devil, himself.
The relationship between Xander and Poppy is tempestuous, at best, ever since a ten-year old Poppy found herself the step-sister to Leon, Xander and Ajax King. From the outset Poppy struggled to fit into the family, a family she refused to accept or love. Hurt, humiliated and grieving, Poppy would make Xander’s life miserable right from the start, misery disguised to hide a growing attraction to her new elder step-brother. A distinct lack of maturity, and the ever-present sibling squabbles was exhausting; the back and forth aggression, and onslaught of emotional tirades left something to be desired. The $ex scenes are erotic and intense.
The secondary and supporting characters are colorful and energetic. We are reintroduced to Xander’s brothers Leon and Ajax, as well as the introduction of Poppy’s mother Lily Valentine.
KING’S RULE is a story of family, heart break, blackmail and love. The premise is dramatic and energetic; the romance is erotic; the characters are immature, broken and struggling to fit.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
January 1, 2019
5 Stars for Kings Rule by Jackie Ashenden
ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own.
Thumbs way up for this really attractive book cover!
I thought it was really HOT just saying ...🔥🔥
Love ❤️ LOVED ❤️ this book!!
This is the second in the Kings of Sydney series and can be read as a stand-alone!
The plot of this story is slightly different from others I have read by this author - Xander & Poppy are step siblings who thru the years have had a growing but very secret attraction to each other ......
Xander was isolated as a child from his siblings & because he was very good with #’s was enlisted by his father to creatively help hide investors savings in a Ponzi type scheme. He was really to young to know what his father was doing & the isolation kept him from developing any meaningful relationships especially after his mother dies...
Poppy’s mother marries Xander’s father after hers commits suicide. She comes to live with Xander’s family but never feels at home or comfortable... when her stepfather is sent to prison the dynamics change again within the family.
Poppy goes to school to study architecture & works to help pay her mother’s bills since even with a monthly allowance she can’t seem to live within her means.
Things really combust 🔥🔥 when Poppy accepts a job working for Xander to help pay some bills - being in such close proximity every day they eventually sleep together. Personally, I was rooting for them to get together ASAP but they decide they need to be discrete ! Poppy feels she is just Xander’s plaything & there is no chance at a real relationship not that either of them believe they can find love with each other or find a HEA ...
I really loved both of these characters & felt their pain! This author has a way of tugging at your heartstrings. This book had me thinking about so many things especially how our upbringings set us up for success or failure at times in life.
This book does have a great HEA - the reader goes thru a bit of angst as well as the characters to get there ...
Highly recommend this book & author!!
ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own.
Thumbs way up for this really attractive book cover!
I thought it was really HOT just saying ...🔥🔥
Love ❤️ LOVED ❤️ this book!!
This is the second in the Kings of Sydney series and can be read as a stand-alone!
The plot of this story is slightly different from others I have read by this author - Xander & Poppy are step siblings who thru the years have had a growing but very secret attraction to each other ......
Xander was isolated as a child from his siblings & because he was very good with #’s was enlisted by his father to creatively help hide investors savings in a Ponzi type scheme. He was really to young to know what his father was doing & the isolation kept him from developing any meaningful relationships especially after his mother dies...
Poppy’s mother marries Xander’s father after hers commits suicide. She comes to live with Xander’s family but never feels at home or comfortable... when her stepfather is sent to prison the dynamics change again within the family.
Poppy goes to school to study architecture & works to help pay her mother’s bills since even with a monthly allowance she can’t seem to live within her means.
Things really combust 🔥🔥 when Poppy accepts a job working for Xander to help pay some bills - being in such close proximity every day they eventually sleep together. Personally, I was rooting for them to get together ASAP but they decide they need to be discrete ! Poppy feels she is just Xander’s plaything & there is no chance at a real relationship not that either of them believe they can find love with each other or find a HEA ...
I really loved both of these characters & felt their pain! This author has a way of tugging at your heartstrings. This book had me thinking about so many things especially how our upbringings set us up for success or failure at times in life.
This book does have a great HEA - the reader goes thru a bit of angst as well as the characters to get there ...
Highly recommend this book & author!!
December 16, 2018
In this second King's of Sydney we follow middle brother Xander. He was number cruncher to his criminal father and holds himself personally responsible for many of the lives his dad ruined - so has set his personal project to track down all the money and return it to the families. His PA quits and he needs a new one fast, however the only person he can trust is his antagonistic step-sister Poppy whom he's been in lust with for years. He blackmails her into working for him but she soon breaks his iron control and they start a passionate dom/sub affair. However both have trust issues and don't think they are good enough for each other.
Wow this one's quite kinky for Mills and Boon - we have a BDSM relationship where our hero likes his orders followed and a heroine who likes to disobey simply to provoke her lover. She's wanted Xander ever since she saw him tame a dog and basically wanted to be that dog, which should feel kind of wrong except that Poppy has enough depth, backstory and emotion to make the reader retain their respect for her.
I like the notion of forbidden romance between step-siblings and the simmering passion which has been there for years adds an extra level of intensity - you can cut the tension between these two with a knife.
Jackie Ashenden fast becoming one of my favourite romance authors. I love the fact that we jump back and forth between the hero and heroine's POV giving an insight into both their motivations. I love that the lovers are clearly made for each other and strengthen/build each other up.
Really looking forward to the next volume in this series.
Wow this one's quite kinky for Mills and Boon - we have a BDSM relationship where our hero likes his orders followed and a heroine who likes to disobey simply to provoke her lover. She's wanted Xander ever since she saw him tame a dog and basically wanted to be that dog, which should feel kind of wrong except that Poppy has enough depth, backstory and emotion to make the reader retain their respect for her.
I like the notion of forbidden romance between step-siblings and the simmering passion which has been there for years adds an extra level of intensity - you can cut the tension between these two with a knife.
Jackie Ashenden fast becoming one of my favourite romance authors. I love the fact that we jump back and forth between the hero and heroine's POV giving an insight into both their motivations. I love that the lovers are clearly made for each other and strengthen/build each other up.
Really looking forward to the next volume in this series.
March 18, 2020
This book was good and rather adorable at times. I'm not a fan of BDSM or male doms so that aspect of the book didn't do anything for me, which brought it down a bit compared to the previous one.
I do like when the main characters have loved each other for years so I enjoyed that aspect, all those feels. The office romance setup didn't last for long at all, which was a good thing in my book since he was her boss.
Poppy was a sweetie and very relatable, she starts off a bit prickly but she has a generous heart, she's enthusiastic and loving.
Xander veered between being stubborn and rather stupid and being an absolute sweetheart. He was so smitten with his girl. I really liked when he took care of Poppy, it was adorable and he was right, she did deserve it.
There are a lot of flares and flickers in the eyes with this author, it's basically her shorthand to convey emotion. It does get a bit weird after a while.
The mirroring effect between the beginning and the end was very well done. I also loved that he , that's so meaningful.
I'm looking forwards to Ajax's book, I loved his no-bullshit straight talking in this one.
I do like when the main characters have loved each other for years so I enjoyed that aspect, all those feels. The office romance setup didn't last for long at all, which was a good thing in my book since he was her boss.
Poppy was a sweetie and very relatable, she starts off a bit prickly but she has a generous heart, she's enthusiastic and loving.
Xander veered between being stubborn and rather stupid and being an absolute sweetheart. He was so smitten with his girl. I really liked when he took care of Poppy, it was adorable and he was right, she did deserve it.
There are a lot of flares and flickers in the eyes with this author, it's basically her shorthand to convey emotion. It does get a bit weird after a while.
The mirroring effect between the beginning and the end was very well done. I also loved that he , that's so meaningful.
I'm looking forwards to Ajax's book, I loved his no-bullshit straight talking in this one.
December 18, 2018
Xander King is ruthless in business, you get one shot, then you're done. His one weakness, Poppy Valentine, who happens to be his stepsister.
They have a hate at first sight relationship. But what neither is them wants to admit is that under all the hurtful things said over the years is the simmering desire that threatens to burn so hot. Xander tries to keep control of his emotions yet Poppy is the one person who can get under his skin. And there are secrets that have to be revealed.
Overall it's a quick read, author glosses over the taboo of steps getting together. And you don't have to read them in order per see, but I know spoilers were dropped. There were missing pieces in the storyline, like what did his brother need him to work on and how did Xander figure out the mystery?
And I really don't like the cover. I think it would have been secured with him just in the suit.
They have a hate at first sight relationship. But what neither is them wants to admit is that under all the hurtful things said over the years is the simmering desire that threatens to burn so hot. Xander tries to keep control of his emotions yet Poppy is the one person who can get under his skin. And there are secrets that have to be revealed.
Overall it's a quick read, author glosses over the taboo of steps getting together. And you don't have to read them in order per see, but I know spoilers were dropped. There were missing pieces in the storyline, like what did his brother need him to work on and how did Xander figure out the mystery?
And I really don't like the cover. I think it would have been secured with him just in the suit.
December 19, 2018
Xander and Poppy really know how to push each other's buttons!
I love how this book starts off with Xander listing everything he hates about Poppy - in such a poignant yet hilarious way that speaks volumes about how infatuated he is with her, quite against his better judgment. But the fireworks really start when they have to work together, and Poppy has absolutely no problem calling Xander out on every one of his snidely contradicting attempts to distance himself from her.
There's good reason for Xander's attitude, and it's a compelling story as the layers of secrets are revealed and the truth about each of their hearts comes to light. These two really are perfect together, and their romance is passion and sweet and heartwarming all at once. The setup of the HEA was brilliant, perfectly describing just how far they've come. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I love how this book starts off with Xander listing everything he hates about Poppy - in such a poignant yet hilarious way that speaks volumes about how infatuated he is with her, quite against his better judgment. But the fireworks really start when they have to work together, and Poppy has absolutely no problem calling Xander out on every one of his snidely contradicting attempts to distance himself from her.
There's good reason for Xander's attitude, and it's a compelling story as the layers of secrets are revealed and the truth about each of their hearts comes to light. These two really are perfect together, and their romance is passion and sweet and heartwarming all at once. The setup of the HEA was brilliant, perfectly describing just how far they've come. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
January 6, 2019
There were parts of this book I really liked, but I feel like there was a lot left to be desired. It was portrayed as a step-brother, step-sister relationship, but there just wasn't enough turmoil about that relationship and the morality of it. But there was a little bit of it, so you know the characters struggled with it at least a little. But honestly, the book would have worked a lot better if they would have just been childhood friends or something, rather than step siblings.
There also was the "secret" that Xander was carrying around and was struggling with the entire book. But when he told Poppy, she was just like "oh, okay, don't worry about it". I wish there would have been more of a climax to that.
The sex scenes were definitely steamy and I enjoyed the pacing of this book. It was enjoyable and page turning.
There also was the "secret" that Xander was carrying around and was struggling with the entire book. But when he told Poppy, she was just like "oh, okay, don't worry about it". I wish there would have been more of a climax to that.
The sex scenes were definitely steamy and I enjoyed the pacing of this book. It was enjoyable and page turning.
March 2, 2019
I received this book for free, and I can only be glad that I didn’t have to pay for it. It was definitely not worth the time it took to read it. Xander is a son of an infamous crook, and has turned his life around and become a billionaire. His step-sister, Poppy, is young, gorgeous and a complete brat. Why do authors think that women want to read about grown men falling for neophytes? Sigh. Poppy is blackmailed into working for her step-brother, whom she hates but secretly lusts after. Xander is pressured into hiring Poppy despite wanting to keep away from her because, yeah, he has the hots for her. There was just so much of this book that either didn’t make sense, was ridiculous or such an obvious cliche that I was happy to be done with it. Definitely not recommended.
Note: I received this book in return for an honest review.
Note: I received this book in return for an honest review.
December 4, 2018
This book didn't work for me at all. I kind of liked the brother Ajax, but seriously disliked the two main characters. They both acted like spoiled kids and their sniping was exhausting. It's so hard for me to just close a book without finishing so I struggled through until the end. I really wish I had abandoned this one. Plot was thin, didn't really make sense. Characters were annoying. Writing was raunchy - which can sometimes be fun, but not this this book, for me anyway. Everyone has different tastes, and some others claim to have enjoyed it. I'm glad for them at least but can't understand it myself.
December 31, 2018
Poppy and Xander... hate to lovers like no others!
Years of fighting and bantering! Now is time for Poppy to grow up and learn to get along with Xander. Never mind they are stepsister and stepbrother. Never mind her mother married Xander's father for his money and influence. And never mind that both feel the animal attraction now that his father is in jail and her mother has moved on to other men with means. This is a battle to the end... of their anger or their lust.
We build walls around us to defend our feelings and avoid a broken heart. When those walls come down just watch out!
I am voluntarily reviewing this book. Thanks to the author for sharing a copy with me.
Years of fighting and bantering! Now is time for Poppy to grow up and learn to get along with Xander. Never mind they are stepsister and stepbrother. Never mind her mother married Xander's father for his money and influence. And never mind that both feel the animal attraction now that his father is in jail and her mother has moved on to other men with means. This is a battle to the end... of their anger or their lust.
We build walls around us to defend our feelings and avoid a broken heart. When those walls come down just watch out!
I am voluntarily reviewing this book. Thanks to the author for sharing a copy with me.
January 10, 2019
I was given an ARC in exchange of my honest review.
Xander King is running his father's company after he went to jail. In need of assistant he thinks of his step-sister.
Poppy Valentine is Xander step-sister that he offers a temporary job. He feels guilty that her father had committed suicide because of his father.
However Poppy wants nothing to do with the King family until Xander offers the one thing that she really wants . An internship at Jordan Architectural.
An intense love/hate relationship
Their interactions will set the pages on fire!!!
Jackie Ashenden will not disappoint her readers!!!
Xander King is running his father's company after he went to jail. In need of assistant he thinks of his step-sister.
Poppy Valentine is Xander step-sister that he offers a temporary job. He feels guilty that her father had committed suicide because of his father.
However Poppy wants nothing to do with the King family until Xander offers the one thing that she really wants . An internship at Jordan Architectural.
An intense love/hate relationship
Their interactions will set the pages on fire!!!
Jackie Ashenden will not disappoint her readers!!!
December 24, 2018
3.5 stars
Let me start by saying- stepbrother romances are like my own personal brand of heroin. My next favorite guilty pleasure is enemies to lovers. King's Rule is both!!! Cue dramatic music!!!!
Stepbrother, enemies to lovers....with some dominance. I've got the trifecta of panty melting orgasmic pleasure filled reading. Yes, this horny lady had a grand old time reading King's Rule.
I missed book one of the series. I saw the blurb for this and had to pounce on it. It's a delicious diversion. Being a bad girl was certainly not a problem...Naughty fun for all.
Let me start by saying- stepbrother romances are like my own personal brand of heroin. My next favorite guilty pleasure is enemies to lovers. King's Rule is both!!! Cue dramatic music!!!!
Stepbrother, enemies to lovers....with some dominance. I've got the trifecta of panty melting orgasmic pleasure filled reading. Yes, this horny lady had a grand old time reading King's Rule.
I missed book one of the series. I saw the blurb for this and had to pounce on it. It's a delicious diversion. Being a bad girl was certainly not a problem...Naughty fun for all.
December 29, 2018
Xander always had a soft spot for Poppy, his stepsister, but she wanted no part of him or his family. Xander had promised his father (when he went to jail) that he would look after Poppy and her mother. Xander offered Poppy a temporary job and had to resort to bribery for her to take it.
Although this book had a good story and there was lots of steam, I just couldn’t get into it. There were no surprises and everything was very predictable.
I received an ARC courtesy of Harlequin through NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
Although this book had a good story and there was lots of steam, I just couldn’t get into it. There were no surprises and everything was very predictable.
I received an ARC courtesy of Harlequin through NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
December 29, 2018
An angsty hero with a side of ass – yes, sign me up. Ms. Ashenden has a knack for those types of heroes and this book started out like that. I loved Xander through the majority of the book and I really liked Poppy. Their parallel problems were very well portrayed. The issue I had with the book was the rushed ending. I would have liked more of a resolve to their issues and problems. Even with that being said, I love Ms. Ashenden’s books, she can write some doozies of heroes and heroines.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
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