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Top Shelf #5
Beasts & Bourbon
My royal blood flows black with twisted secrets.
I am a beast who wears a crown.
Heir to a modern kingdom cloaked in corruption and depravities.
The time has come to claim my princess.
An innocent hidden away from my dark world.
Till now.
Her initiation will require sacrifice and submission.
There is no escaping the chains which bind her to me.
Surrendering to my torment, as well as my protection, is her only path to survival.
In the end…
She will be forever mine.
*Beasts & Bourbon is a dark billionaire romance. If you don’t like a splash of shock, a dash of edge,, and a heavy dose of dirty, then don’t take a sip of this TOP SHELF cocktail.
I am a beast who wears a crown.
Heir to a modern kingdom cloaked in corruption and depravities.
The time has come to claim my princess.
An innocent hidden away from my dark world.
Till now.
Her initiation will require sacrifice and submission.
There is no escaping the chains which bind her to me.
Surrendering to my torment, as well as my protection, is her only path to survival.
In the end…
She will be forever mine.
*Beasts & Bourbon is a dark billionaire romance. If you don’t like a splash of shock, a dash of edge,, and a heavy dose of dirty, then don’t take a sip of this TOP SHELF cocktail.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2019
400 people are currently reading
689 people want to read
About the author
Alta Hensley
122 books2,488 followersAlta Hensley is a NYT & USA Today bestselling author of dark romance where the villain always gets the happily ever after.
Twisted, clever, and occasionally unhinged, her books deliver morally gray anti-heroes, sharp-tongued heroines, and happily ever afters that taste even sweeter after a little ruin. With a signature blend of grit, wit, and heat, Alta’s stories prove one thing: Villains deserve love too.
Alta lives on the foggy coast of Oregon with her husband, two daughters, and a pair of dogs who think they’re in charge. When she’s not writing redemption for the irredeemable, she’s walking the coastline or sipping craft beer in eccentric little bars that feel like they belong in her books.
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Twisted, clever, and occasionally unhinged, her books deliver morally gray anti-heroes, sharp-tongued heroines, and happily ever afters that taste even sweeter after a little ruin. With a signature blend of grit, wit, and heat, Alta’s stories prove one thing: Villains deserve love too.
Alta lives on the foggy coast of Oregon with her husband, two daughters, and a pair of dogs who think they’re in charge. When she’s not writing redemption for the irredeemable, she’s walking the coastline or sipping craft beer in eccentric little bars that feel like they belong in her books.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AltaHensleyA...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Alta-Hensley/e...
Website: www.altahensley.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/altahensley
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alta-...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@altahensley
Join her mailing list: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
January 30, 2019
3.5 Stars
First off, I LOVE the cover of this book. Now, I was super excited to find out that Miz Hensley was writing another book in the TOP SHELF series. I've quite enjoyed all the ones I have read so far (some more than others), and this one was no different. It was quick, smokin' hot, and well written. I liked both Roman and Cheri. It is always a pleasure to get a glimpse of Tennesse, and I am still holding out hope he gets a book of his own. I would also LOVE to see a book or a series of books centering around the whole "secret society" thing.
My only issue and this is an issue I have had with pretty much every book in this series, is that they are just too short and rushed for the plot and the characters to feel completely fleshed out. I wanted (needed) more. All in all, though this has been a delightful series, so this gets two thumbs up from yours truly.
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April 30, 2019💞Beasts & Bourbon is on sale for $0.99 (regular price $4.99) on Amazon today (4/30/2019) !💞
February 1, 2019
3.5 Dark & Twisted Stars
This new installment in the Top Shelf series focuses on Prince Roman and Cheri. Prince Roman is part of a circle of powerful men who own and run the Spiked Roses club. He is a very wealthy man who has everything that he could possibly ever want except for the one woman who got away. His sweet Cheri. The one that he was promised to all of those years ago. She has been gone too long and he is determined to finally bring her back home to where she belongs.
Prince Roman's royal blood takes him back to the Iron Colt Brotherhood. A dark and corrupt secret society that his princess must be initiated into. A sick and depraved world where she will have to sacrifice and submit to whatever torment they unleash upon her. Will the two of them pull through and make it out of there alive?
My only issue is that the book felt a bit rushed. Other than that, Beasts & Bourbon is a wonderfully written novel that grabs you from the very start. It’s shocking, satisfying, hard to put down and without a doubt another must read novel by the immensely talented Alta Hensley.
This new installment in the Top Shelf series focuses on Prince Roman and Cheri. Prince Roman is part of a circle of powerful men who own and run the Spiked Roses club. He is a very wealthy man who has everything that he could possibly ever want except for the one woman who got away. His sweet Cheri. The one that he was promised to all of those years ago. She has been gone too long and he is determined to finally bring her back home to where she belongs.
Prince Roman's royal blood takes him back to the Iron Colt Brotherhood. A dark and corrupt secret society that his princess must be initiated into. A sick and depraved world where she will have to sacrifice and submit to whatever torment they unleash upon her. Will the two of them pull through and make it out of there alive?
My only issue is that the book felt a bit rushed. Other than that, Beasts & Bourbon is a wonderfully written novel that grabs you from the very start. It’s shocking, satisfying, hard to put down and without a doubt another must read novel by the immensely talented Alta Hensley.
February 3, 2019
In this 5th book of the Top Shelf series, a runaway bride from an arranged marriage is brought back to her betrothed. While you can tell they love each other, she ran for entirely different reasons. The story is quite interesting, and I love all the characters from Spiked Roses. I know this story is supposed to be dark, and in some ways it is, but I feel like Alta Hensley may be playing it a little safe. I honestly wish it was darker, and went further into detailing some of the kink going on, but I overall loved the story.
February 3, 2019
CRAFTY—RUTHLESS—HEARTLESS—AND CRUEL AT TIMES
Once again, Ms. Alta Hensley has penned a story that is spine-tingling, on-the-edge-of-your-seat, I can’t look, but I can’t look away page-turning tale. There is a unique cast of characters, some you will hate, some will have you hot and bothered, and some, you just aren’t sure about. The characters and situations are explicated detailed. The story is not for those who want wine and roses with a sweet storyline. The story is raw, edgy, dirty, painful, intense, explicit and erotic. If you don’t like a splash of shock, a dash of taboo, and a heavy dose of sex, then don’t take a sip of this TOP SHELF cocktail.
Prince Roman Cassian and Cherise ‘Cheri’ are back and stronger than ever. They were part of the Royally Mine boxed set in a story called Bad Boys and Bourbon. Now they have their own story in the Top Shelf books, and wow, they will be entered a dark and dangerous world, one where they must succeed or else---and else isn’t among the living.
“I am part of a secret society called The Iron Colt Brotherhood. I was born into it. It’s a society that is made up of old money, new money, royal money, stolen money, and blood money. Unlike some members, I didn’t get to choose to be part of it, but regardless, I am. Once you are a member, you are always a member. There’s no leaving it. This is my world. It’s not all galas, gowns, and tiaras. My world is black, leather, chains, and danger. You need to know what you are getting yourself into if you truly want to be my bride.”
Once Roman sends his man, Silas, to retrieve Cheri from her galavanting, he lets her know in no uncertain terms that the marriage they were contracted into as children will happen. But he will also inform her of a part of the royalty that isn’t discussed, and now she must be initiated into the ranks, and while he will be leading the way, it will be dark, dirty, and unforgiving. Once they enter the mansion, there is no turning back.
“As long as you earn your hundred diamonds, you will come out of this alive. Your prince will be here soon. But remember—in this manor, your prince is dark, cruel, harsh, and unforgiving. In this manor, your prince is not your knight in shining armor.”
“I will be the man who controls every single breath you take and move you make. You will call me Master, my wild kitty. Trust your Master knows best, and you’ll survive this ordeal.”
“Rules of society had ceased existing the minute I walked through the door of the manor. Life as it once was no longer existed for me. My nightmare had become a fantasy, and my fantasies had become this nightmare.”
The story is a dark and wickedly delicious addition to the Top Shelf series, with so many explicit scenes of depravity that both Cheri and Roman must endure, but they will do it together. What happens when they leave to plan their wedding? Will they ever be the same?
“I want adventure, spice, and an excitement in our life that is laced with some dark tinges of taboo. Nothing will whiten our soiled souls.”
Once again, Ms. Alta Hensley has penned a story that is spine-tingling, on-the-edge-of-your-seat, I can’t look, but I can’t look away page-turning tale. There is a unique cast of characters, some you will hate, some will have you hot and bothered, and some, you just aren’t sure about. The characters and situations are explicated detailed. The story is not for those who want wine and roses with a sweet storyline. The story is raw, edgy, dirty, painful, intense, explicit and erotic. If you don’t like a splash of shock, a dash of taboo, and a heavy dose of sex, then don’t take a sip of this TOP SHELF cocktail.
Prince Roman Cassian and Cherise ‘Cheri’ are back and stronger than ever. They were part of the Royally Mine boxed set in a story called Bad Boys and Bourbon. Now they have their own story in the Top Shelf books, and wow, they will be entered a dark and dangerous world, one where they must succeed or else---and else isn’t among the living.
“I am part of a secret society called The Iron Colt Brotherhood. I was born into it. It’s a society that is made up of old money, new money, royal money, stolen money, and blood money. Unlike some members, I didn’t get to choose to be part of it, but regardless, I am. Once you are a member, you are always a member. There’s no leaving it. This is my world. It’s not all galas, gowns, and tiaras. My world is black, leather, chains, and danger. You need to know what you are getting yourself into if you truly want to be my bride.”
Once Roman sends his man, Silas, to retrieve Cheri from her galavanting, he lets her know in no uncertain terms that the marriage they were contracted into as children will happen. But he will also inform her of a part of the royalty that isn’t discussed, and now she must be initiated into the ranks, and while he will be leading the way, it will be dark, dirty, and unforgiving. Once they enter the mansion, there is no turning back.
“As long as you earn your hundred diamonds, you will come out of this alive. Your prince will be here soon. But remember—in this manor, your prince is dark, cruel, harsh, and unforgiving. In this manor, your prince is not your knight in shining armor.”
“I will be the man who controls every single breath you take and move you make. You will call me Master, my wild kitty. Trust your Master knows best, and you’ll survive this ordeal.”
“Rules of society had ceased existing the minute I walked through the door of the manor. Life as it once was no longer existed for me. My nightmare had become a fantasy, and my fantasies had become this nightmare.”
The story is a dark and wickedly delicious addition to the Top Shelf series, with so many explicit scenes of depravity that both Cheri and Roman must endure, but they will do it together. What happens when they leave to plan their wedding? Will they ever be the same?
“I want adventure, spice, and an excitement in our life that is laced with some dark tinges of taboo. Nothing will whiten our soiled souls.”
February 1, 2019
Beasts & Bourbon written by Alta Hensley is the fifth book in the Top Shelf Series. I have read all the other books in this series and have enjoyed them all. You do not need to read all the other books in this series, as they can be read independently of one another.
Beasts and Bourbon is Cheri and Prince Roman’s second chance love story. They have a long history dating back to their childhood thru early adulthood. Cheri has left Roman to find herself, but Roman has decided that ten years is long enough to be separated and sends Silas, his right-hand man, to bring Cheri back to him. To make Cheri his own, she must be approved and initiated into the secret, ancient society of the Iron Colt Brotherhood. This is where the book delves into the very dark and forbidden aspects of their journey together. Cheri must submit entirely to Roman’s twisted dominate tastes.
Things I liked and disliked about this book… I loved how strong and intelligent, Cheri was portrayed at the beginning of the book, but she kind of lost herself by the end of the book. I loved how Roman was all sexy and alpha male, but I felt his character was underdeveloped. The two main characters definitely had chemistry, but again I felt Ms. Hensley could have taken them much further as a couple especially toward the end of the book. The storyline was good, but still, I felt like it was hurried and underdeveloped. I would have enjoyed if the Iron Colt Brotherhood component of the story had been developed further.
This was not my favorite book in the series but, I did enjoy it, and look forward to reading future books in this series. Would love the next book to be about Tennessee, I am eager to know more about him. So if you are looking for a book with a bit of darkness and a touch of D/s you have found your next read.
***I kindly received an ARC of this book by way of Booksprout. I was not contacted, asked or required to leave a review. I received no compensation, financial or otherwise. This is my honest review.***
Beasts and Bourbon is Cheri and Prince Roman’s second chance love story. They have a long history dating back to their childhood thru early adulthood. Cheri has left Roman to find herself, but Roman has decided that ten years is long enough to be separated and sends Silas, his right-hand man, to bring Cheri back to him. To make Cheri his own, she must be approved and initiated into the secret, ancient society of the Iron Colt Brotherhood. This is where the book delves into the very dark and forbidden aspects of their journey together. Cheri must submit entirely to Roman’s twisted dominate tastes.
Things I liked and disliked about this book… I loved how strong and intelligent, Cheri was portrayed at the beginning of the book, but she kind of lost herself by the end of the book. I loved how Roman was all sexy and alpha male, but I felt his character was underdeveloped. The two main characters definitely had chemistry, but again I felt Ms. Hensley could have taken them much further as a couple especially toward the end of the book. The storyline was good, but still, I felt like it was hurried and underdeveloped. I would have enjoyed if the Iron Colt Brotherhood component of the story had been developed further.
This was not my favorite book in the series but, I did enjoy it, and look forward to reading future books in this series. Would love the next book to be about Tennessee, I am eager to know more about him. So if you are looking for a book with a bit of darkness and a touch of D/s you have found your next read.
***I kindly received an ARC of this book by way of Booksprout. I was not contacted, asked or required to leave a review. I received no compensation, financial or otherwise. This is my honest review.***
January 30, 2019
I liked this story a lot.
The beginning was very good. Cheri and Roman begin a relationship, their world had fated it and their time had arrived. Cheri though, has a hard decision to make and the acceptance of far more than she anticipated.
For the most part the story was good, but I felt it fizzled out a little towards the end by rushing and omitting reasons for why Roman changed the initiation, and how it would affect their future. It also would have been nice to see more of Roman and Cheri after the initiation. Pretty hot reading though, and terrific characters.
The beginning was very good. Cheri and Roman begin a relationship, their world had fated it and their time had arrived. Cheri though, has a hard decision to make and the acceptance of far more than she anticipated.
For the most part the story was good, but I felt it fizzled out a little towards the end by rushing and omitting reasons for why Roman changed the initiation, and how it would affect their future. It also would have been nice to see more of Roman and Cheri after the initiation. Pretty hot reading though, and terrific characters.
November 26, 2020
Wow talk about some BDSM moments in this 👀👀 Honestly I've been interested in reading this whole series and I hope it's okay to read this out of order. But in all honesty, I really did enjoy this ebook and I'm glad I got the opportunity to read this.
I read this through the short story compilation of Long Live The King Anthology: Fifteen Steamy Contemporary Royal Romances by Skye Warren.
Find me on:
My Blog | My BookTube | My Book Club | Instagram | Twitter
I read this through the short story compilation of Long Live The King Anthology: Fifteen Steamy Contemporary Royal Romances by Skye Warren.
Find me on:
My Blog | My BookTube | My Book Club | Instagram | Twitter
June 5, 2019
"I am a beast who wears a crown. Heir to a modern kingdom cloaked in corruption and depravities. The time has come to claim my princess."
I have struggled between 2 and 3 stars for this installment of the Top Shelf series. I decided to go with 3 stars instead of 2 because although it had it's issues, overall I did like their dynamic before the initiation.
Also 3 stars does not mean it's a bad read for me, my 3 stars is a good storyline with potential where the author just fell a little short delivering.
Trigger warning: this one is heavy on the humiliation and degradation of sexual acts. There is punishments and a bad case of dependency bc of these acts. Proceed with caution if this isn't your thing.
This is the 5th installment of the Top Shelf series and I have read them all. They all are stand alone books but to get the most of the characters I suggest reading the other installments.
“Welcome back to royalty, Cheri. Welcome back to me.”
Synopsis:
This one centers about Prince Roman and boy was I excited to get to know him. He is the bad boy prince and partner/owner of Spiked Roses with the other 4 guys featured in books 1-4 (and 2 more that haven't had their stories released yet). He is true royalty and kinky as hell. The stuff that comes out of his mouth sounds as if it's natural for him and is smoking hot. Roman has been arranged to marry his childhood sweetheart, Cheri, and he's come to collect his bride. But before she can submerge herself into his world fully and become his princess wife, she must survive the initiation.
"He was my Prince Charming in this dark lunacy, and I would wear my tiara proudly."
Cheri grew up surrounded by royalty and wealth. She had been groomed since early childhood to become the wife of Prince Roman. But she flees from that life around 18 years old, and soon realizes she can't run from fate or love. A lot is asked of her to complete the initiation, but will she come out the other end whole?
"But remember… in this manor, your prince is dark, cruel, harsh, and unforgiving. In this manor, your prince is not your knight in shining armor.”
The Initiation is a test of sorts by a secret society we read about in book 4, and it tests every limit both Roman and Cheri have. She will be required to fully submit to Roman and let go of her pride, and he will have to give into his sadist ways if they both want to make it out alive and get their HEA.
What I loved:
before the initiation, Cheri had my laughing often. Just her inner and outer dialogue was the perfect mix of hilarious and snarky. Even their back and forth together in the beginning was adorably cute. I also loved how natural the dirty talk was in most of their scenes. I liked how it showed a different side of Roman as well. And unlike previous installments, this one didn't have a problem that could be easily fixed which I enjoyed.
What I didn't like:
of course there were some editing and proofing errors. I loved the pace and the way the story was going pretty much all the way through most of the initiation. But once it was over, the ending was completely cut short and rushed. It had the appearance of a page limit and the author just had to summarize her ending in like 1 chapter instead of giving us a true conclusion. Since the other installments don't give us a lot of insight into the other couples, I felt this one was cut off in such an incomplete way that I can't say for sure their is a HEA. I also hate that we were left with an extremely dependent and needy female heroine and we are lead to believe her future depends on the prince being with her every waking moment and their "love" turning from a true lifetime love to a M/s love. I HATE she was made this way towards the end. Also I totally get that this is fiction but it is fiction based off real life situations and not a fantasy realm or anything. So it was hard for me to grasp how someone from a royal family would be okay with allowing his future wife to be put in these degrading and humiliating situations much less allowing others to see her weak.
Final Thoughts:
All in all, this one had the most potential of the 3 latest installments, but fell the shortest in my opinion. I would still read it just bc it's still interesting and the dirty talk is definitely up there in the hot radar.
I have struggled between 2 and 3 stars for this installment of the Top Shelf series. I decided to go with 3 stars instead of 2 because although it had it's issues, overall I did like their dynamic before the initiation.
Also 3 stars does not mean it's a bad read for me, my 3 stars is a good storyline with potential where the author just fell a little short delivering.
Trigger warning: this one is heavy on the humiliation and degradation of sexual acts. There is punishments and a bad case of dependency bc of these acts. Proceed with caution if this isn't your thing.
This is the 5th installment of the Top Shelf series and I have read them all. They all are stand alone books but to get the most of the characters I suggest reading the other installments.
“Welcome back to royalty, Cheri. Welcome back to me.”
Synopsis:
This one centers about Prince Roman and boy was I excited to get to know him. He is the bad boy prince and partner/owner of Spiked Roses with the other 4 guys featured in books 1-4 (and 2 more that haven't had their stories released yet). He is true royalty and kinky as hell. The stuff that comes out of his mouth sounds as if it's natural for him and is smoking hot. Roman has been arranged to marry his childhood sweetheart, Cheri, and he's come to collect his bride. But before she can submerge herself into his world fully and become his princess wife, she must survive the initiation.
"He was my Prince Charming in this dark lunacy, and I would wear my tiara proudly."
Cheri grew up surrounded by royalty and wealth. She had been groomed since early childhood to become the wife of Prince Roman. But she flees from that life around 18 years old, and soon realizes she can't run from fate or love. A lot is asked of her to complete the initiation, but will she come out the other end whole?
"But remember… in this manor, your prince is dark, cruel, harsh, and unforgiving. In this manor, your prince is not your knight in shining armor.”
The Initiation is a test of sorts by a secret society we read about in book 4, and it tests every limit both Roman and Cheri have. She will be required to fully submit to Roman and let go of her pride, and he will have to give into his sadist ways if they both want to make it out alive and get their HEA.
What I loved:
before the initiation, Cheri had my laughing often. Just her inner and outer dialogue was the perfect mix of hilarious and snarky. Even their back and forth together in the beginning was adorably cute. I also loved how natural the dirty talk was in most of their scenes. I liked how it showed a different side of Roman as well. And unlike previous installments, this one didn't have a problem that could be easily fixed which I enjoyed.
What I didn't like:
of course there were some editing and proofing errors. I loved the pace and the way the story was going pretty much all the way through most of the initiation. But once it was over, the ending was completely cut short and rushed. It had the appearance of a page limit and the author just had to summarize her ending in like 1 chapter instead of giving us a true conclusion. Since the other installments don't give us a lot of insight into the other couples, I felt this one was cut off in such an incomplete way that I can't say for sure their is a HEA. I also hate that we were left with an extremely dependent and needy female heroine and we are lead to believe her future depends on the prince being with her every waking moment and their "love" turning from a true lifetime love to a M/s love. I HATE she was made this way towards the end. Also I totally get that this is fiction but it is fiction based off real life situations and not a fantasy realm or anything. So it was hard for me to grasp how someone from a royal family would be okay with allowing his future wife to be put in these degrading and humiliating situations much less allowing others to see her weak.
Final Thoughts:
All in all, this one had the most potential of the 3 latest installments, but fell the shortest in my opinion. I would still read it just bc it's still interesting and the dirty talk is definitely up there in the hot radar.
June 28, 2022
Oh, this was disappointing. I couldn't follow the characters, their actions and motivations.
The suspense collapsed and the days and weeks were summarised in a weak and colourless way. The good thing about it was that it saved me from having to skim through many pages.
The brotherhood was also not convincing or existed only as a justification to change the setting.
All in all, well written but mediocrely designed. Currently the series should have ended better after the 3rd book, Rye and Bourbon were a total disappointment for me compared to 1-3.
Let's see if Gin can pull that out or if enjoyed after Rye and Bourbon just leads to a severe reading hangover.
The suspense collapsed and the days and weeks were summarised in a weak and colourless way. The good thing about it was that it saved me from having to skim through many pages.
The brotherhood was also not convincing or existed only as a justification to change the setting.
All in all, well written but mediocrely designed. Currently the series should have ended better after the 3rd book, Rye and Bourbon were a total disappointment for me compared to 1-3.
Let's see if Gin can pull that out or if enjoyed after Rye and Bourbon just leads to a severe reading hangover.
January 30, 2019
He was my Prince Charming in this dark lunacy, and I would wear my tiara proudly."
Prince Roman's royal blood flows back to twisted secrets and archaic ways. It is time for him to claim his innocent princess, and initiate her into the dark and twisted world, and require submission in mind, body, and soul, binding her to him for the rest of their lives. Her surrending to Roman's torment is the only path for her survival. Will Roman and his bride to be get out alive, or will they have to face the consequences of the dark world Roman is apart of?
As with all of Alta Hensley's Top Shelf Series, I enjoyed reading this book. It was dark, and twisted with a splash of taboo. I have read the Top Shelf series from the beginning and loved every minute of it, and this book was no different. I loved Prince Roman, and his dark and twisted ties, and loved his love interest Cheri.
If you love dark and twisted tales, then check out Beasts & Bourbon and the rest of the Top Shelf series today! 4.5 ⭐ out of 5⭐
Prince Roman's royal blood flows back to twisted secrets and archaic ways. It is time for him to claim his innocent princess, and initiate her into the dark and twisted world, and require submission in mind, body, and soul, binding her to him for the rest of their lives. Her surrending to Roman's torment is the only path for her survival. Will Roman and his bride to be get out alive, or will they have to face the consequences of the dark world Roman is apart of?
As with all of Alta Hensley's Top Shelf Series, I enjoyed reading this book. It was dark, and twisted with a splash of taboo. I have read the Top Shelf series from the beginning and loved every minute of it, and this book was no different. I loved Prince Roman, and his dark and twisted ties, and loved his love interest Cheri.
If you love dark and twisted tales, then check out Beasts & Bourbon and the rest of the Top Shelf series today! 4.5 ⭐ out of 5⭐
February 1, 2019
Beasts & Bourbon by Alta Hensley is book 5 in the Top Shelf Series. This is the story of Prince Roman and Cheri's 2nd chance love story.
They have this long history that goes back to when they were children thru early adulthood. Cheri had left Roman to find out who she really was but Roman has grown tired of waiting-- ten years is long enough to be separated, for her to "find herself" and sends Silas, his right-hand man, to bring Cheri back to where she belongs-- with him.
Prince Roman was born into this secret society that he must introduce Cheri into. She will have to submit to him and the do what he tells her to. This is a do or die situation. Cheri is initiated into the dangerous , sizzling and taboo world that Roman lives in. Their very survival depends on it. Wowza, the chemistry, the heat and the dark desires are intense in this story. I loved every moment of Roman and Cheri's love story. Only minor issue is I wish this read was longer, not no short. Otherwise, great addition to the Top Shelf series.
My Rating: 4.7 stars *****
They have this long history that goes back to when they were children thru early adulthood. Cheri had left Roman to find out who she really was but Roman has grown tired of waiting-- ten years is long enough to be separated, for her to "find herself" and sends Silas, his right-hand man, to bring Cheri back to where she belongs-- with him.
Prince Roman was born into this secret society that he must introduce Cheri into. She will have to submit to him and the do what he tells her to. This is a do or die situation. Cheri is initiated into the dangerous , sizzling and taboo world that Roman lives in. Their very survival depends on it. Wowza, the chemistry, the heat and the dark desires are intense in this story. I loved every moment of Roman and Cheri's love story. Only minor issue is I wish this read was longer, not no short. Otherwise, great addition to the Top Shelf series.
My Rating: 4.7 stars *****
May 20, 2019
4.6 stars
Out of all the books in this series, this book was by far the best one. From the first chapter, I was hooked. In the fourth book, the Brotherhood and the initiations were introduced. This book further expanded on those initiations and it was way more intense. A couple of the scenes reminded me of The Black Light Series(which everyone needs to read) and is probably why I liked it so much.
This book is a standalone but still reintroduces previous characters in passing. I have been waiting for Roman's story since the beginning. There was something about me that intrigued me. I was right to have had my interest piqued because he was definitely in a league all his own which says something because all of these men have a darkness to them. I loved Cheri and her feisty attitude and understood her fear. I was disappointed at the epilogue as I wanted to see a little more in the future.
Still, all an all it was a great addition. I am not sure if there will be more included in this series. I hope so and I hope they are more like this.
Out of all the books in this series, this book was by far the best one. From the first chapter, I was hooked. In the fourth book, the Brotherhood and the initiations were introduced. This book further expanded on those initiations and it was way more intense. A couple of the scenes reminded me of The Black Light Series(which everyone needs to read) and is probably why I liked it so much.
This book is a standalone but still reintroduces previous characters in passing. I have been waiting for Roman's story since the beginning. There was something about me that intrigued me. I was right to have had my interest piqued because he was definitely in a league all his own which says something because all of these men have a darkness to them. I loved Cheri and her feisty attitude and understood her fear. I was disappointed at the epilogue as I wanted to see a little more in the future.
Still, all an all it was a great addition. I am not sure if there will be more included in this series. I hope so and I hope they are more like this.
Read
July 31, 2019What the hell has the Iron Colt Brotherhood got to do with Cheri marrying the Prince??? Really, they are going to make her sexually submit in order to prepare her for being a Princess?
What a load of rubbish.
shaving, because "good girls keep their C***s smooth" and "only very bad girls have hair on their pussies"
"And though maybe I should have been embarrassed that my sex was on full display for the camera, the main humiliation I felt was that I had disappointed Roman, and for some odd reason, I hated that fact. I was hairy and I wanted to be rid of it as quickly as possible" WTF?????This is why so many young girls have issues these days!
And with that, I'm out
DID NOT FINISH
What a load of rubbish.
shaving, because "good girls keep their C***s smooth" and "only very bad girls have hair on their pussies"
"And though maybe I should have been embarrassed that my sex was on full display for the camera, the main humiliation I felt was that I had disappointed Roman, and for some odd reason, I hated that fact. I was hairy and I wanted to be rid of it as quickly as possible" WTF?????This is why so many young girls have issues these days!
And with that, I'm out
DID NOT FINISH
February 3, 2019
Romantic, twisted, and oh so delicious. Who knew royal secrets could be so twisted and delicious?! I remember this couple from an anthology and loved how they came together, but never imagined how “the rest of the story” would unfold. The author made a new cocktail, taking an arranged marriage and adding a splash of Spiked Roses. What she created has me wanting to return to the bar for more. Fabulous story!
January 31, 2019
This book was amazing and so hot. I saw steam coming from my Kindle. I absolutely, 100% loved this book. Prince Roman is ready to marry and does any and everything in his power to bring Cherise back to him and make her remember how great it was for them before. There is a hea.
June 27, 2021
This review is a summary to date in the series of Top Shelf. Individual reviews have been left per book.
Series started with 7 members of a high class establishment - Spiked Roses. 7 men, wealthy/dominant/luscious/highly sexual/demanding a few choice words to describe. There was so much potential and there still is, but after book 2, what happened? Still highly sexual and demanding, the scenes are scorching but strangely we have high and lows and feels as if the main characters are becoming soft. Where did the 7 men who are described as being ruthless with their wealth, their being so high market due to their wealth, their exuberance/misogynistic ideals etc. don’t misunderstand me, enjoy reading these creations by authors and congrats to their work, but feel we are taken to high/medium/ah - what happened to cringing scenes to ok nicely wrapped up. Hmm, something to think about.
So, back to Beasts & Bourbon. Prince Roman and Cheri (Cherise). Again, no spoiling. Welcome back the Iron Colt Brotherhood, not forgotten nor gone. If you have read previous books, you are aware of the ICB. Degradation/submission/humiliation/lost self worth are some requirements expected fro the ICB for all females. Doesn’t mean it will be easy, a choice, Submission or Death.
‘Master’, this is what Cheri is expected to refer to Roman. ‘Master’ an initiation of the ICB. Will it be a fantasy to nightmare or nightmare to fantasy! So much is required, jump ahead to ending and again whether Alta chooses a fairytale ending, well I suppose it’s the reader’s interpretation on what they feel is best.
I suppose cults are still out there and this may still go on. Readers, be aware, this is demoralising/degrading etc to women. If this isn’t for you, don’t read. Remember, you are reviewing an authors work, so there is no need to be degrading if this wasn’t your choice of read.
Series started with 7 members of a high class establishment - Spiked Roses. 7 men, wealthy/dominant/luscious/highly sexual/demanding a few choice words to describe. There was so much potential and there still is, but after book 2, what happened? Still highly sexual and demanding, the scenes are scorching but strangely we have high and lows and feels as if the main characters are becoming soft. Where did the 7 men who are described as being ruthless with their wealth, their being so high market due to their wealth, their exuberance/misogynistic ideals etc. don’t misunderstand me, enjoy reading these creations by authors and congrats to their work, but feel we are taken to high/medium/ah - what happened to cringing scenes to ok nicely wrapped up. Hmm, something to think about.
So, back to Beasts & Bourbon. Prince Roman and Cheri (Cherise). Again, no spoiling. Welcome back the Iron Colt Brotherhood, not forgotten nor gone. If you have read previous books, you are aware of the ICB. Degradation/submission/humiliation/lost self worth are some requirements expected fro the ICB for all females. Doesn’t mean it will be easy, a choice, Submission or Death.
‘Master’, this is what Cheri is expected to refer to Roman. ‘Master’ an initiation of the ICB. Will it be a fantasy to nightmare or nightmare to fantasy! So much is required, jump ahead to ending and again whether Alta chooses a fairytale ending, well I suppose it’s the reader’s interpretation on what they feel is best.
I suppose cults are still out there and this may still go on. Readers, be aware, this is demoralising/degrading etc to women. If this isn’t for you, don’t read. Remember, you are reviewing an authors work, so there is no need to be degrading if this wasn’t your choice of read.
February 4, 2019
Alta Hensley has done it again! Beasts & Bourbon is the fifth book in the Top Shelf series and it does not disappoint! I have enjoyed the whole series, but like it tells you in the blurb, if you don't like a dash of taboo, these aren't the books for you! Each book can be read as a standalone, but I truly enjoyed reading them in the order they were released in.
This story is about Prince Roman and Cheri and their chance at a happily ever after. These two have a long history with one another. They are supposed to be wed as Cheri was promised to Prince Roman. Cheri left to find herself and to give Roman time to find himself too. He decides that they have been separated long enough and sends Silas on his way to retrieve his future wife.
It's like these two haven't been separated all this time though. Cheri and Roman still very much have feelings for one another and Roman lets it be known that he is more than ready to settle down. This will come at a price though. She needs to be approved and initiated into an ancient society Roman was born into. The Iron Colt Brotherhood. This is where this book becomes very taboo and tests Cheri and pushes her to her limits.
Beasts & Bourbon was such a great read and I truly loved the characters. Cheri wasn't your typical damsel in distress. She was strong and at times stronger than she gave herself credit for. Roman was more tender than he would let on and these two balanced each other really well.
This was so good!
This story is about Prince Roman and Cheri and their chance at a happily ever after. These two have a long history with one another. They are supposed to be wed as Cheri was promised to Prince Roman. Cheri left to find herself and to give Roman time to find himself too. He decides that they have been separated long enough and sends Silas on his way to retrieve his future wife.
It's like these two haven't been separated all this time though. Cheri and Roman still very much have feelings for one another and Roman lets it be known that he is more than ready to settle down. This will come at a price though. She needs to be approved and initiated into an ancient society Roman was born into. The Iron Colt Brotherhood. This is where this book becomes very taboo and tests Cheri and pushes her to her limits.
Beasts & Bourbon was such a great read and I truly loved the characters. Cheri wasn't your typical damsel in distress. She was strong and at times stronger than she gave herself credit for. Roman was more tender than he would let on and these two balanced each other really well.
This was so good!
January 8, 2026
2.75⭐️ i’m trying to wrap my head around the fact that in the span of about 5 pages Cheri goes from hating the idea & rejecting the idea of getting married (though she says she loves Roman) to him opening the Tiffany-blue box, her seeing the ring & all of a sudden she can’t live without him & has been in love with him her whole life 💀 (oh but she’s not a gold digger - she hates all the “royal obligations”) i know the plot has to plot, especially with this book that’s less than 200 pages, but still it’s annoying how she changes her mind within a the same breath 🙄
another FMC that was TOLD what would happen at initiation, another one that is like “yeah idc, i can do it” & *another one* that just a bit of spanking & she’s already regretting her decision & as things keep going she then wants to run away knowing she had the option to NOT do the initiation because if she “quit” once started she would suffer before they 🔪 her. though she endures & finishes her initiation, the pace of the book is as insane as how Cheri’s mind changes from thought to thought & honestly, leaves lots to be desired
another FMC that was TOLD what would happen at initiation, another one that is like “yeah idc, i can do it” & *another one* that just a bit of spanking & she’s already regretting her decision & as things keep going she then wants to run away knowing she had the option to NOT do the initiation because if she “quit” once started she would suffer before they 🔪 her. though she endures & finishes her initiation, the pace of the book is as insane as how Cheri’s mind changes from thought to thought & honestly, leaves lots to be desired
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2019
2 1/2 stars. I liked the chemistry between Roman and Cheri in the beginning especially. Then the characters seem to lose their way a little bit. Roman's an alpha male but that doesn't come off so much when dealing with the society, even if he is able to twist it to be working more within his own framework. Cheri obviously has some talent for writing poetry if she has won an award but that just disappears in the rest of the storyline. I wish it hadn't. That is an area that she could have still had a sense of herself even if she was doing some duties as a princess.
I also don't really buy the society. Old royalty blood, particularly in earlier days when they had real power in their countries, would never allow themselves to be dictated by this type of an organization. And why would the society care about a third son of a royal family in a small country.
An average book. I liked it most in the beginning but it slowly petered out to average.
I also don't really buy the society. Old royalty blood, particularly in earlier days when they had real power in their countries, would never allow themselves to be dictated by this type of an organization. And why would the society care about a third son of a royal family in a small country.
An average book. I liked it most in the beginning but it slowly petered out to average.
February 18, 2024
Growing up together raised knowing one day you will be married and be a spectacle to the world for being royal is a lot to handle. Needing to spread her wings and find herself away from expectations Cheri has duty come calling to her all the way in Costa Rica. Prince Roman is ready to claim what has been as he sees his since childhood what he gets is feisty Cheri all grown up and even more perfect than he remembers. Becoming a perfect princess isn't exactly all Roman has in mind for his fiancé he has some other dark sinister things in mind to secure the future they both deserve. I loved the characters and the plot but was a little disappointed to see some repeated scenes from another series by this author, they weren't exactly the same or boring, but it was enough for me to recognize and lose my intense focus in the book. Not to say I didn't enjoy it a lot, but I am ready for our next gentleman from Spiked Roses.
February 10, 2019
Barely a 3 🌟
I liked this book well enough to read it in 1 sitting , it's just that I can't say WOW , that book was really good ( after I had finished it ) . If you like reading about S & M ( not to be confused with B & D ) , this book is something that you might enjoy. Unfortunately that's pretty much the whole book ! A question that I have after reading the first few chapters is , what country is Roman the prince of ? I don't recall it being mentioned. This book really could have been better. The story should have continued instead of essentially ending with the couple leaving the mansion . It would have added so much more to the book instead of reading like a couples beginners guide to S & M .
I liked this book well enough to read it in 1 sitting , it's just that I can't say WOW , that book was really good ( after I had finished it ) . If you like reading about S & M ( not to be confused with B & D ) , this book is something that you might enjoy. Unfortunately that's pretty much the whole book ! A question that I have after reading the first few chapters is , what country is Roman the prince of ? I don't recall it being mentioned. This book really could have been better. The story should have continued instead of essentially ending with the couple leaving the mansion . It would have added so much more to the book instead of reading like a couples beginners guide to S & M .
February 8, 2019
Sizzles and heats!
Two strong characters that sizzle from the start. Prince Roman was an hot alpha man that was tough from the start but when he finally gets his princess that his hearts beat for his soft side shows. But with a high price before they can say I do, he must do the impossible in order to keep them safe. This was not your typical fairytale romance it’s so much hotter with BSDM aspect that made for an interesting storyline. Although the characters started strong it kinda fizzled torward the end and lost some of the connections that I wanted more of. Overall a good read that didn’t disappoint.
Two strong characters that sizzle from the start. Prince Roman was an hot alpha man that was tough from the start but when he finally gets his princess that his hearts beat for his soft side shows. But with a high price before they can say I do, he must do the impossible in order to keep them safe. This was not your typical fairytale romance it’s so much hotter with BSDM aspect that made for an interesting storyline. Although the characters started strong it kinda fizzled torward the end and lost some of the connections that I wanted more of. Overall a good read that didn’t disappoint.
November 28, 2020
Beasts & Bourbon by Alta Hensley, Book 5 in the Spiked Roses Collection was a Strange, and Disturbing Read!
Cheri (Princess Cherise Cassian), the h, started off as a strong independent female, that evolved into a wimpy, needy, individual, with a lack of drive, and self-worth.
Prince Roman, the H, was a dominant, sadistic alpha male, that maintained his initial character, but also developed into a stronger individual.
The story ends at the point where the couple appears to be on the verge of obtaining their Happily Ever After.
I received an ARC via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
Cheri (Princess Cherise Cassian), the h, started off as a strong independent female, that evolved into a wimpy, needy, individual, with a lack of drive, and self-worth.
Prince Roman, the H, was a dominant, sadistic alpha male, that maintained his initial character, but also developed into a stronger individual.
The story ends at the point where the couple appears to be on the verge of obtaining their Happily Ever After.
I received an ARC via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.
January 8, 2021
Read as part of Spiked Roses: The Complete Top Shelf Series. After a decade apart, Prince Roman decides it's time to hunt down his fiance through an arranged marriage. It turns out that he and Cheri grew up together and were and still are in love. They've been running around banging others because the both needed to grow up.
The book takes a sharp turn into 'really now' with the return of the nefarious secret society from Book 4.
The book takes a sharp turn into 'really now' with the return of the nefarious secret society from Book 4.
October 13, 2025
Cheri escaped from Prince Roman despite loving him because she couldn't handle the strict lifestyle of marrying into royalty. However, when he summons her back to him, they are both ready for the next step; however, Cheri first needs to be "initiated" I liked how the book started but halfway through, it started to fall flat for me. It all started with great chemistry, but once the initiation started, I didn't quite care for it anymore. Alta is known for her dark reads, but for this series, I just couldn't really enjoy it. The story read quite short, so I was left wanting more from Roman and Cheri, instead of just the whole initiation taking up the rest of the book.
February 5, 2019
When you need a hand to guide you, or spank you
I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book at first. The beginning shows the worst behavior our female lead could partake in. But enter our prince and she starts to come back from the edge. The further we go, the more we can see that the future princess needs a firm hand to keep her on the straight and narrow. By the end of the book, I was in love with the prince and wishing him luck with his princess. I hope there will be more books in the series.
I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book at first. The beginning shows the worst behavior our female lead could partake in. But enter our prince and she starts to come back from the edge. The further we go, the more we can see that the future princess needs a firm hand to keep her on the straight and narrow. By the end of the book, I was in love with the prince and wishing him luck with his princess. I hope there will be more books in the series.
June 12, 2019
Dark and Secretive
Roman is a Prince has deep dark secrets that are about to be revealed to his assigned bride. Roman could feast upon any woman of his choosing but his heart has always been with his future wife. Cheri has been groomed for Roman from birth but her realization that she is not truly prepared for royalty she flees. Roman becomes an alpha and summons Cheri back to fulfill her destiny. She soon discovers her Prince has dark, dirty secrets! To his surprise his bride to be is a dirty kitty!
Roman is a Prince has deep dark secrets that are about to be revealed to his assigned bride. Roman could feast upon any woman of his choosing but his heart has always been with his future wife. Cheri has been groomed for Roman from birth but her realization that she is not truly prepared for royalty she flees. Roman becomes an alpha and summons Cheri back to fulfill her destiny. She soon discovers her Prince has dark, dirty secrets! To his surprise his bride to be is a dirty kitty!
August 13, 2020
Thought it was going to be an enemies to lovers clash between a strong, independent heroine and a cocky asshole about to get knocked down a peg. But what we got was a heroine who despises the hero only to immediately fall back under his spell and allows herself to be forced into a dom/sub relationship with no desire to do so or gentle easement into the lifestyle, eventually becoming a sad, weak version of her former self.
This started out so promising and left a seriously bad taste in my mouth.
This started out so promising and left a seriously bad taste in my mouth.
January 7, 2024
the Initiation
Beasts & Bourbon is book five in the series Spiked Roses Billionaire’s Club by author Alta Hensley. Ok so I know I said the previous book was pitch black but I was so wrong. This one is pitch black- so dark there are no shadows at all. This is a feast for the sensually deprived. Really loving these male characters- really hating The Iron Colt Brotherhood.
Also I’m starting to notice something peculiar there are only six books but there are seven males - I’m I missing something.
Anywho, this is brutally brilliant read.
Enjoy!!
Beasts & Bourbon is book five in the series Spiked Roses Billionaire’s Club by author Alta Hensley. Ok so I know I said the previous book was pitch black but I was so wrong. This one is pitch black- so dark there are no shadows at all. This is a feast for the sensually deprived. Really loving these male characters- really hating The Iron Colt Brotherhood.
Also I’m starting to notice something peculiar there are only six books but there are seven males - I’m I missing something.
Anywho, this is brutally brilliant read.
Enjoy!!
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