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Unbreakable Bonds #8
Rialto
Someone has it out for Rialto.
Ian Banner is loving his hectic life. He’s newly married, ready to start a family, and opening a new restaurant. All his dreams are coming true.
The last thing he needs is a problem with his restaurant.
But when one attack after another comes, he grows convinced he has another enemy.
Ian tries to handle things by himself, but his friends are soon drawn in when the attacks become violent. That’s when Ian realizes the target isn’t Rialto. It’s him.
Rialto is the final installment in the Unbreakable Bonds series and features sexy times, Daciana snuggles, overprotective family, fire, and of course, code names.
259 pages, ebook
First published December 16, 2019
About the author
Jocelynn Drake
163 books2,931 followersNew York Times Bestselling author Jocelynn Drake loves a good story, whether she is reading it or writing one of her own. Over the years, her stories have allowed her to explore space, talk to dragons, dodge bullets with assassins, hang with vampires, and fall in love again and again.
This former Kentucky girl has moved up, down, and across the U.S. with her husband. Recently, they’ve settled near the Rockies.
When she is not hammering away at her keyboard or curled up with a book, she can be
walking her dog Ace, or playing video games. She loves Bruce Wayne, Ezio Auditore, travel, tattoos, explosions, and fast cars.
She is the author of the urban fantasy books: The Dark Days series and the Asylum Tales. For gay romance, she has completed The Exit Strategy and Shadow Elite series, and is now working on a spin-off of her MM paranormal series, Lords of Discord. She has also co-authored with Rinda Elliot the following series: Unbreakable Bonds, Ward Security, Pineapple Grove, the Weavers Circle. In addition, she has co-authored with AJ Sherwood the following series: Scales 'N' Spell and Wings 'N' Wands. She can be found at JocelynnDrake.com.
This former Kentucky girl has moved up, down, and across the U.S. with her husband. Recently, they’ve settled near the Rockies.
When she is not hammering away at her keyboard or curled up with a book, she can be
walking her dog Ace, or playing video games. She loves Bruce Wayne, Ezio Auditore, travel, tattoos, explosions, and fast cars.
She is the author of the urban fantasy books: The Dark Days series and the Asylum Tales. For gay romance, she has completed The Exit Strategy and Shadow Elite series, and is now working on a spin-off of her MM paranormal series, Lords of Discord. She has also co-authored with Rinda Elliot the following series: Unbreakable Bonds, Ward Security, Pineapple Grove, the Weavers Circle. In addition, she has co-authored with AJ Sherwood the following series: Scales 'N' Spell and Wings 'N' Wands. She can be found at JocelynnDrake.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
December 16, 2019
Personally I couldn't be happier that the final book in this series was about Ian and Hollis.Ian has always been my favourite character in this series and he's the reason I've come back to this series over and over. I haven't read every book and a couple haven't worked as well as others for me but I'm happy I read this final book and got to see Ian,Lucas,Rowe,and Snow happy and settled with their partners and families.
This series has had everything at times.Drama, a little OTT at times but I've come to expect it and I've realized it kind of works. Along with the drama the overriding factor in these books is family,love,and friendship and these men have it in spades.
I don't want to go into the events here but fans of this series won't be disappointed and the epilogue was pretty damn perfect.
His family had grown so much over the years, and he’d never expected this. Hoped, maybe, but never really thought it was possible.(...)
Recommended.
Review copy provided by IndiGo Marketing & Design.
December 14, 2019
Everyone who knows me also knows the depth of my love for Hollis... He came into my life when I first read Shiver in 2016, and I have been deeply in love with him ever since
So it mustn't come as a surprise that this book was a 5 star read for me. It has one of my all-time favorite characters starring it, so it was bound to happen 
And of course it made my "top reads" of 2019 list ...
Thankfully I also enjoyed the storyline, even though I read it with a bit of a double feeling since I knew this would be the final book! But as we all know, all great things must come to an end.
Though I am sure these lovely authors will have much awesomeness in store for us.
As for the story, I think you should just read it yourself. And if you haven't started this series yet, I suggest you do so now. Just be prepared for lots of fun, laughter, and friendship. Suspense, missions and code names. And love...a whole lot of love...
I hate saying goodbye, but I also know they are all just a page away and I can open their books anytime I want ;)
I highly recommend this series!!
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
December 31, 2019
Rialto is the final book in the Unbreakable Bonds series, and this last installment revolves around Ian and Hollis. Somebody is out to get Ian, first through his restaurant, then direct attacks on his friends. When things hit to close to home, Ian gets the gang involved. Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ward Security try to track down who is trying to hurt Ian.
Ian and Hollis are sweet together, but they finally realize they have a lot going on, and they are both struggling with the past.
We also get to catch up with the rest of the gang. Lucas and Andrei are also getting ready to move from their penthouse, and it’s harder than anyone thought it would be. The gang always called the place “home” and it’s where they spent many special times together as a family. When they all come together for one last meal, it is bittersweet.
The epilogue is absolutely perfect and we get a glimpse of what the future will be like for all of them. Honestly, I am really going to miss this series. Even though Snow and Jude are my favorite, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about all of them and their “Unbreakable Bonds”
Ian and Hollis are sweet together, but they finally realize they have a lot going on, and they are both struggling with the past.
We also get to catch up with the rest of the gang. Lucas and Andrei are also getting ready to move from their penthouse, and it’s harder than anyone thought it would be. The gang always called the place “home” and it’s where they spent many special times together as a family. When they all come together for one last meal, it is bittersweet.
The epilogue is absolutely perfect and we get a glimpse of what the future will be like for all of them. Honestly, I am really going to miss this series. Even though Snow and Jude are my favorite, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about all of them and their “Unbreakable Bonds”
December 18, 2019
Wow...I can't believe this is the end. I don't want it to be the end. This is definitely one of those series you reread often. Lucas and Andrei are my rough and tough guy favorites but Ian and Hollis are my sweet and loving favorites of this series. I'm a sucker for an abused guy getting his HEA and Ian certainly deserves it. Hollis is just the man he needs.
This wasn't as action packed as the others but that's fine with me. I don't think it actually fits Ian and Hollis. I will say, from previous books, I wish we could have seen their wedding. Just like Jude and Snow. I hate we just get told about it, especially Ian and Hollis. I missed that.
As I said, I'm sad to see this is the end for these guys. I'm really interested in Max...think he'll get a book? I hope so. He deserves some happiness.
Before reading
Ian and Hollis!!!!!!!!!!!
This wasn't as action packed as the others but that's fine with me. I don't think it actually fits Ian and Hollis. I will say, from previous books, I wish we could have seen their wedding. Just like Jude and Snow. I hate we just get told about it, especially Ian and Hollis. I missed that.
As I said, I'm sad to see this is the end for these guys. I'm really interested in Max...think he'll get a book? I hope so. He deserves some happiness.
Before reading
Ian and Hollis!!!!!!!!!!!
December 19, 2019
3.75 Stars!
3.75 Stars!
I have to admit when I heard there was another book for Hollis and Ian my first thought was, "why?".
If there was going to be another book I was hoping it would be about Snow and Jude. I wanted a book of them planning their wedding and seeing them tie the knot. Although we get details of it, it is all sidelined. I was bummed. I have said it before, but I will say it again, Hollis and Ian have always been my least favorite couple. I love Hollis, but Ian has never really grew on me as a MC. Side character? Yes. So even though they weren't my faves, I still wanted to read it to see what was going on with not only this couple, but the other guys as well.
I do have to admit that this story-line was OTT and really didn't feel like it was necessary. I could have done without it. I would have enjoyed the story more if it concentrated on them going through the process of being foster parents. Reading about them facing the challenges of being foster parents to the kids that got put into their home. Or even having Ian planning Jude and Snow's wedding. I would have rather read a story-line like that than reading one with this new "enemy".
Now what I did enjoy was seeing Hollis and Ian together. You can't deny their love or their connection. I also enjoyed getting to see how far the other guys have come to building their families and their lives together. It was bittersweet knowing this was the end. I loved this series and am so glad I own all the books so I can come back and visit them whenever I want.
If you haven't read this series then you are missing out. It's full of fun, laughter, family, love, and steam. So much steam, lol. Pick up this series!
Happy reading dolls! xx
I was given an ARC by Indigo Marketing and Design in exchange for an honest review.
3.75 Stars!
I have to admit when I heard there was another book for Hollis and Ian my first thought was, "why?".
If there was going to be another book I was hoping it would be about Snow and Jude. I wanted a book of them planning their wedding and seeing them tie the knot. Although we get details of it, it is all sidelined. I was bummed. I have said it before, but I will say it again, Hollis and Ian have always been my least favorite couple. I love Hollis, but Ian has never really grew on me as a MC. Side character? Yes. So even though they weren't my faves, I still wanted to read it to see what was going on with not only this couple, but the other guys as well.
I do have to admit that this story-line was OTT and really didn't feel like it was necessary. I could have done without it. I would have enjoyed the story more if it concentrated on them going through the process of being foster parents. Reading about them facing the challenges of being foster parents to the kids that got put into their home. Or even having Ian planning Jude and Snow's wedding. I would have rather read a story-line like that than reading one with this new "enemy".
Now what I did enjoy was seeing Hollis and Ian together. You can't deny their love or their connection. I also enjoyed getting to see how far the other guys have come to building their families and their lives together. It was bittersweet knowing this was the end. I loved this series and am so glad I own all the books so I can come back and visit them whenever I want.
If you haven't read this series then you are missing out. It's full of fun, laughter, family, love, and steam. So much steam, lol. Pick up this series!
Happy reading dolls! xx
I was given an ARC by Indigo Marketing and Design in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2019
Ian and Hollis are by far and away my favourite couple from the series, and I think I'm not alone in saying this. So why oh why oh why didn't we get their wedding? Seriously?!?!. I was so disappointed that it took the shine off this last book in the series.
Less of chasing their tails in circles looking for the bad dude and something on their wedding would have upped my rating.
3.75 disappointed there was no damn wedding stars
Less of chasing their tails in circles looking for the bad dude and something on their wedding would have upped my rating.
3.75 disappointed there was no damn wedding stars
December 12, 2019
Full review tomorrow but let's just say as endings go, it played out almost perfectly.
**
While I had a touch of sadness reading this and knowing it would be the last book in the Unbreakable Bonds series, it is also fitting that it ends with Ian Banner, nee Pierce.
It was because of Ian that the bonds which had already been in place between Lucas and Snow, bolstered by Rowe, became the unbreakable sense of family which has anchored this whole series, and the Ward Security offshoot.
It's no secret that Rowan Ward holds my heart, but Ian has been a very close second through the many wonderful books that Jocelynn and Rinda have written for this series.
I'm not going to go into too much detail because I don't want anyone to have their experience reading this farewell to the Cincinnati crew spoiled.
I will just say, this book perfectly capped off what has been, and will remain, one of my all-time favourite series of romances within the MM genre.
Each pairing is perfect for each other, each brings unique experiences and skills to the group as a whole and each man has found his family with the rest.
I've loved every single one of these books, okay some I took to more than the others, but Lucas and Andrei, Snow and Jude, Rowe and Noah and Ian and Hollis are wonderfully crafted characters who I'd like to believe are off living their best lives with nothing but happiness to light their way.
Thank you Jocelynn and Rinda for creating these men and taking me on a wild ride through the streets of the Queen City, it's been a blast and I look forward to seeing where the journey takes you both next.
#ARC kindly received from the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review
**
While I had a touch of sadness reading this and knowing it would be the last book in the Unbreakable Bonds series, it is also fitting that it ends with Ian Banner, nee Pierce.
It was because of Ian that the bonds which had already been in place between Lucas and Snow, bolstered by Rowe, became the unbreakable sense of family which has anchored this whole series, and the Ward Security offshoot.
It's no secret that Rowan Ward holds my heart, but Ian has been a very close second through the many wonderful books that Jocelynn and Rinda have written for this series.
I'm not going to go into too much detail because I don't want anyone to have their experience reading this farewell to the Cincinnati crew spoiled.
I will just say, this book perfectly capped off what has been, and will remain, one of my all-time favourite series of romances within the MM genre.
Each pairing is perfect for each other, each brings unique experiences and skills to the group as a whole and each man has found his family with the rest.
I've loved every single one of these books, okay some I took to more than the others, but Lucas and Andrei, Snow and Jude, Rowe and Noah and Ian and Hollis are wonderfully crafted characters who I'd like to believe are off living their best lives with nothing but happiness to light their way.
Thank you Jocelynn and Rinda for creating these men and taking me on a wild ride through the streets of the Queen City, it's been a blast and I look forward to seeing where the journey takes you both next.
#ARC kindly received from the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review
February 29, 2020
4.5 💕Can't-believe-it's-the-end-Stars!!😍😭 Ian and Hollis are my second favorite couple (Lucas and Andrei will always hold a special place in my heart😍) and I was both dreading the end of the series and looking forward to their after-HEA story..😬😳 and the plot did not disappoint.. (except that we never got to see their wedding😢)
3 years after Jagger's death, Ian is happily married to his soulmate and savior Hollis; he's starting a new restaurant and also planning on adding some foster kids to his expanding family. Things can't be any better.. he's both busy and happy 😍. But when his life blood, his restaurant Rialto ; where he is both chef and owner, is threatened by an unknown entity, all his other future plans take a back seat. Initially both Ian and Hollis try to do their own sleuthing to find out who the perpetrator is, but when Ian is attacked at home, his entire Unbreakable Bond family gets involved much to the frustration of Ian. Having been left out during their thrilling adventures, Ian puts his foot down regarding who's in-charge of the investigation and starts digging into his traumatic past to figure out who his new enemy is. Will he be able to find out in time before the threat destroys either his restaurant or him? Will his family support his unorthodox idea of saving everything? Is he forever destined to live in the shadows of his past?
This is another gem from the Unbreakable Bond series and although sad to see it end, it was great to catch a glimpse of what the future looks like for these crazy Bond-Brothers. It was also bitter-sweet saying good-bye to Lucas's penthouse which had memories in every corner and crook 💞😉, but as time moves on so do Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian with their extended families.. still very much together but going on new adventures💝. Highly recommended!! 👍👍
3 years after Jagger's death, Ian is happily married to his soulmate and savior Hollis; he's starting a new restaurant and also planning on adding some foster kids to his expanding family. Things can't be any better.. he's both busy and happy 😍. But when his life blood, his restaurant Rialto ; where he is both chef and owner, is threatened by an unknown entity, all his other future plans take a back seat. Initially both Ian and Hollis try to do their own sleuthing to find out who the perpetrator is, but when Ian is attacked at home, his entire Unbreakable Bond family gets involved much to the frustration of Ian. Having been left out during their thrilling adventures, Ian puts his foot down regarding who's in-charge of the investigation and starts digging into his traumatic past to figure out who his new enemy is. Will he be able to find out in time before the threat destroys either his restaurant or him? Will his family support his unorthodox idea of saving everything? Is he forever destined to live in the shadows of his past?
This is another gem from the Unbreakable Bond series and although sad to see it end, it was great to catch a glimpse of what the future looks like for these crazy Bond-Brothers. It was also bitter-sweet saying good-bye to Lucas's penthouse which had memories in every corner and crook 💞😉, but as time moves on so do Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian with their extended families.. still very much together but going on new adventures💝. Highly recommended!! 👍👍
December 21, 2019
In this final installment of the epic Unbreakable Bonds series we come full circle to Ian's traumatic past. The past that initially made these four men into a family.
That family has now expanded to include spouses and children and in-laws, but a blast from the past has everyone again worried for Ian's safety. Ian and Hollis are burning the candle at both ends managing their businesses and getting ready to become foster parents. The new threat to Rialto and to Ian's safety puts them, and the entire family, in a scramble for answers.
I loved the close view of Ian's big softie heart. 💓 I also really enjoyed the rest of his family finally accepting him as a peer.
My very favorite part though was the epilogue. It was bittersweet to see how the small family of four unrelated men has grown to include so many people with so much love for each other. Me = big puddle of goo.
A big thank you to Indigo Marketing & Design for this wonderful ARC.
That family has now expanded to include spouses and children and in-laws, but a blast from the past has everyone again worried for Ian's safety. Ian and Hollis are burning the candle at both ends managing their businesses and getting ready to become foster parents. The new threat to Rialto and to Ian's safety puts them, and the entire family, in a scramble for answers.
I loved the close view of Ian's big softie heart. 💓 I also really enjoyed the rest of his family finally accepting him as a peer.
My very favorite part though was the epilogue. It was bittersweet to see how the small family of four unrelated men has grown to include so many people with so much love for each other. Me = big puddle of goo.
A big thank you to Indigo Marketing & Design for this wonderful ARC.
December 19, 2019
Man, it is like an end of an era. Or something like that ;)
But seriously, Ian's story ends this wonderful, wonderful series - although I hope to see cameo's of these eight guys and four wonderful couples in further Ward Security books *fingers crossed* - and gives every couple a very solid HEA.
This book starts off with Ian and Hollis having been married for 4 months at the start of this - and we don't get the wedding, unfortunately. I'm not as bummed as when I thought we didn't get to see Lucas and Andrei's, but they are my fave so that is to be expected - for the rest of the couples, I'm okay not seeing the wedding (and in Rowe and Noah's case, they aren't having one), I'm just happy knowing they got married.
Ian and Hollis' life couldn't be more perfect. They are happy as can be, and Ian's restaurant, Rialto, is doing amazing, and he even gets a spread in a magazine about him and his restaurant. He's even opening a second smaller restaurant and he and Hollis are taking classes on fostering kids.
Only, soon after the magazine comes out, things start happening at Ian's restaurant. Like an ICE raid (that was a pretty tense part...with all that's happening in this country with ICE), a string of bad reviews online, a surprise health inspection because of food poisoning complaints...and Ian gets attacked at his home.
The fact that it could be someone from the Jagger organization brings up old traumas and hurts for Ian - and Hollis as well - and they realize that they haven't quite dealt with everything there is to deal with when it comes to Jagger, even though it's been 3 years. But they just don't talk about it, and they realize in this that this needs to change.
When Ian finds out that the one attacking him and his restaurant might be one of the other boys who had been there with Ian when he was with Jagger, things get more complicated, and Ian being the kind soul that he is, wants to help the guy. .
So that leads to one last adventure for our Unbreakable Bonds crew - truly, their bonds are unbreakable - to settle Ian's past for good (not that he doesn't stay in therapy over it, but you get what I mean) - and so all of their pasts.
I loved the Epilogue of this and I was happy to see where all our four couples are. Lucas and Andrei may be my favorites, but I love all these couples and I loved to see them all so happy.
Ah, what a wonderful end to a wonderful series. Two big thumbs up from me! I can't wait for more from these two wonderful authors.
Highly recommend!
***ARC generously provided by the Alpha Book Club in exchange for an honest review***
But seriously, Ian's story ends this wonderful, wonderful series - although I hope to see cameo's of these eight guys and four wonderful couples in further Ward Security books *fingers crossed* - and gives every couple a very solid HEA.
This book starts off with Ian and Hollis having been married for 4 months at the start of this - and we don't get the wedding, unfortunately. I'm not as bummed as when I thought we didn't get to see Lucas and Andrei's, but they are my fave so that is to be expected - for the rest of the couples, I'm okay not seeing the wedding (and in Rowe and Noah's case, they aren't having one), I'm just happy knowing they got married.
Ian and Hollis' life couldn't be more perfect. They are happy as can be, and Ian's restaurant, Rialto, is doing amazing, and he even gets a spread in a magazine about him and his restaurant. He's even opening a second smaller restaurant and he and Hollis are taking classes on fostering kids.
Only, soon after the magazine comes out, things start happening at Ian's restaurant. Like an ICE raid (that was a pretty tense part...with all that's happening in this country with ICE), a string of bad reviews online, a surprise health inspection because of food poisoning complaints...and Ian gets attacked at his home.
The fact that it could be someone from the Jagger organization brings up old traumas and hurts for Ian - and Hollis as well - and they realize that they haven't quite dealt with everything there is to deal with when it comes to Jagger, even though it's been 3 years. But they just don't talk about it, and they realize in this that this needs to change.
When Ian finds out that the one attacking him and his restaurant might be one of the other boys who had been there with Ian when he was with Jagger, things get more complicated, and Ian being the kind soul that he is, wants to help the guy. .
So that leads to one last adventure for our Unbreakable Bonds crew - truly, their bonds are unbreakable - to settle Ian's past for good (not that he doesn't stay in therapy over it, but you get what I mean) - and so all of their pasts.
I loved the Epilogue of this and I was happy to see where all our four couples are. Lucas and Andrei may be my favorites, but I love all these couples and I loved to see them all so happy.
Ah, what a wonderful end to a wonderful series. Two big thumbs up from me! I can't wait for more from these two wonderful authors.
Highly recommend!
***ARC generously provided by the Alpha Book Club in exchange for an honest review***
December 19, 2019
Absolutely delightful end to a wonderful series close to my heart. I love Ian and Hollis and love seeing them settled, happy, and so in love.
I loved the dual POV, and getting to see Ian really come into his own, and how supportive and dreamy Hollis is. While the mystery of who's behind the Rialto problems fell a little flat for me, all in all I really enjoyed Rialto and I can easily recommend this series to anyone who enjoys mysteries and romances.
I loved the dual POV, and getting to see Ian really come into his own, and how supportive and dreamy Hollis is. While the mystery of who's behind the Rialto problems fell a little flat for me, all in all I really enjoyed Rialto and I can easily recommend this series to anyone who enjoys mysteries and romances.
January 3, 2020
***** Chef Ian and Cop Hollis are the main focus in this series wrap up. We loved them so much in DEVOUR.
We catch up with all of the crew, too. Our happy couples are all progressing, growing families, expanding their success, and are stronger than ever.
We see how passionate and sexy Ian and Hollis still are, plus they are opening a new restaurant, in addition to Rialto, and exploring adoption and fostering.
Ian
Hollis
On the downside, Ian and Rialto are being targeted with inspectors, ICE, and horrible reviews, which they can't figure out. Who is out to ruin the restaurant and Ian's reputation?
Then there is a fire, more violence, an old foe, and a tortured soul. Ian can relate, and his old wounds re-open, bringing anxiety, nightmares and more. We are reminded of what he went through when Roman and Ward Security saved him.
Now, he has someone to save, to pay it forward, and asks the crew for help. We get action, violence, code names and the crew's forcefulness.
Burdens are lifted, and we get a magnificent epilogue. A fantastic, sexy, thrilling tale.
Highly recommended.
ENJOY !
=====
We catch up with all of the crew, too. Our happy couples are all progressing, growing families, expanding their success, and are stronger than ever.
We see how passionate and sexy Ian and Hollis still are, plus they are opening a new restaurant, in addition to Rialto, and exploring adoption and fostering.
Ian
Hollis
On the downside, Ian and Rialto are being targeted with inspectors, ICE, and horrible reviews, which they can't figure out. Who is out to ruin the restaurant and Ian's reputation?
Then there is a fire, more violence, an old foe, and a tortured soul. Ian can relate, and his old wounds re-open, bringing anxiety, nightmares and more. We are reminded of what he went through when Roman and Ward Security saved him.
Now, he has someone to save, to pay it forward, and asks the crew for help. We get action, violence, code names and the crew's forcefulness.
Burdens are lifted, and we get a magnificent epilogue. A fantastic, sexy, thrilling tale.
Highly recommended.
ENJOY !
=====
January 13, 2020
The final book and it’s out with a bang.
I absolutely adore Ian and Hollis. I was so glad the final book belonged to them. But then if I’m being honest I would also have been happy with Lucas and Andrei or Snow and Jude.
Although I was a little miffed that we didn’t get to attend the wedding.
This was a fabulous final book. Entertaining, hot exciting and of course the code names.
I absolutely adore Ian and Hollis. I was so glad the final book belonged to them. But then if I’m being honest I would also have been happy with Lucas and Andrei or Snow and Jude.
Although I was a little miffed that we didn’t get to attend the wedding.
This was a fabulous final book. Entertaining, hot exciting and of course the code names.
December 17, 2019
It was only a few weeks ago that I had to say goodbye to all of my guys in Eden Finley's, "Fake Boyfriend," series. And now, I'm having to say goodbye to another group of men I love; the, "Unbreakable Bonds," men. It's been a sad December.
While I have enjoyed some of the books in the series more than others, I've overall really loved these books. To the point where I've been known to talk to my friend who also reads them about the guys like they are real people, messaging her things like, "Aww Lucas and Andrei are so cute with their baby." That's how you know you've found a good series. When the characters are so deep in your heart that you are teetering on the edge of sanity.
It felt right that the last book was about Ian. After all, he was the one that really made them all a family. Like the second books for Lucas, Jude and Rowe, I was little nervous going into it. I didn't want unnecessary relationship drama. Ian went through so much before getting his family with the guys and his HEA with Hollis. I'd say he went through the most of any of them. Turns out the worry was unnecessary. Oh there was action and codenames and shenanigans. But never once did I think the guys wouldn't get through it. There were also feels galore.
See, what I liked more than the action and suspense was seeing everyone, not just Ian and Hollis, thriving and happy. Seeing all the little moments between the original four. Seeing all of them settled. I'm trying to keep it spoiler free. So I'll just say that, "Rialto," ended things pretty perfectly. I'm not crying, you're crying.
ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services. All thoughts, opinions and tears are my own.
While I have enjoyed some of the books in the series more than others, I've overall really loved these books. To the point where I've been known to talk to my friend who also reads them about the guys like they are real people, messaging her things like, "Aww Lucas and Andrei are so cute with their baby." That's how you know you've found a good series. When the characters are so deep in your heart that you are teetering on the edge of sanity.
It felt right that the last book was about Ian. After all, he was the one that really made them all a family. Like the second books for Lucas, Jude and Rowe, I was little nervous going into it. I didn't want unnecessary relationship drama. Ian went through so much before getting his family with the guys and his HEA with Hollis. I'd say he went through the most of any of them. Turns out the worry was unnecessary. Oh there was action and codenames and shenanigans. But never once did I think the guys wouldn't get through it. There were also feels galore.
See, what I liked more than the action and suspense was seeing everyone, not just Ian and Hollis, thriving and happy. Seeing all the little moments between the original four. Seeing all of them settled. I'm trying to keep it spoiler free. So I'll just say that, "Rialto," ended things pretty perfectly. I'm not crying, you're crying.
ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services. All thoughts, opinions and tears are my own.
August 10, 2026
Someone has it out for Rialto. Ian Banner is loving his hectic life. He’s newly married, ready to start a family, and opening a new restaurant. All his dreams are coming true. The last thing he needs is a problem with his restaurant. But when one attack after another comes, he grows convinced he has another enemy. Ian tries to handle things by himself, but his friends are soon drawn in when the attacks become violent. That’s when Ian realizes the target isn’t Rialto. It’s him. Rialto is the final installment in the Unbreakable Bonds series and features sexy times, Daciana snuggles, overprotective family, fire, and of course, code names.
The eighth and very sadly, the final book in the wonderful Unbreakable Bonds series. I don't know when I have enjoyed a series so much! I'm so glad each one of these books has a special place on my bookshelves. This one is again, a special blend of mystery, suspense; but most of all, it highlights the power of a special and long enduring friendship.
This is restaurant owner, and the last of these special band of friends, Ian Banner's story. Ian had climbed his way out of a horrible situation with the help of these loving and generous men who have become his special "family". Ian is married now and is looking to start another kind of family. His restaurant, Rialto, is the hottest restaurant in Cincinnati. Everything appears to be perfect. Then, someone appears who definitely seems to have a grudge against Ian and is looking to not only destroy the reputation of his restaurant, but Ian's "well respected name", as well.
Ian wants and tries to handle this by himself. After all it IS his restaurant. Of course, his friends always mean well when they tend to take over. It didn't take very long before the attacks increased and soon even became violent. Ian realized that he obviously had not fully dealt with his past, and if the attacks keep escalating the way they have, he might not ever have the chance to do so.
Rialto is sadly the last book in the Unbreakable Bonds series, and I so hate to say goodbye to this group of friends who have banded together to form an incredible "found family". Ian must try and deal with whatever has brought his past back and he knows he has some final pieces of his past life to wrap up. We also get to check in on all the others. All of the men that we the readers of this wonderful series have grown to love, are becoming settled as the series comes to a close.
Ian’s dream was always to own his own restaurant, and that dream has become a reality. Now the restaurant and Ian's own safety is being targeted. He knows what could be at stake, and he tries to handle things on his own. I really, really liked all the men in this series and the personal relationships they have created with each other and their "significant others". It was, of course, clear that our Ian was in serious trouble, and after everything he has suffered in his past, tries to make it out as being "no big deal"...but after a while, this tactic just stops working. Ian’s livelihood...his restaurant... is being attacked, as well as Ian himself.
One problem that I had was that once the plot and the culprit is revealed, there were some areas that weren’t fully explained. How could this person have accomplished everything? These men then have to go on one more rescue mission to close out the series, but their antics have been a bit overdone, for lack of a better word. It just didn't read like their usual serious rescue missions.
I really loved seeing all of the guys together from this series and especially that they have all found their own special, solid families. They have all created something wonderful and their lives have grown. I would have liked "more" about the guys and their plans for the future. The end wasn’t as revealing as I would have liked it to be. Let's face it, I would have liked that Jocelynne Drake and Rinda Elliot to have had planned to write 50 or so, more books in this series...but I learned a longtime ago that we don't always get what we want. :)
I loved getting to meet all these men throughout the 8 books in this series. Watching their friendships grow into a family and, overall, my time with the "Unbreakable Bonds" men was time so very well spent. A Big "THANK YOU" to the two authors for a wonderful and delightful series. Could the two of you please just think about adding those other 42 books to this series????
The eighth and very sadly, the final book in the wonderful Unbreakable Bonds series. I don't know when I have enjoyed a series so much! I'm so glad each one of these books has a special place on my bookshelves. This one is again, a special blend of mystery, suspense; but most of all, it highlights the power of a special and long enduring friendship.
This is restaurant owner, and the last of these special band of friends, Ian Banner's story. Ian had climbed his way out of a horrible situation with the help of these loving and generous men who have become his special "family". Ian is married now and is looking to start another kind of family. His restaurant, Rialto, is the hottest restaurant in Cincinnati. Everything appears to be perfect. Then, someone appears who definitely seems to have a grudge against Ian and is looking to not only destroy the reputation of his restaurant, but Ian's "well respected name", as well.
Ian wants and tries to handle this by himself. After all it IS his restaurant. Of course, his friends always mean well when they tend to take over. It didn't take very long before the attacks increased and soon even became violent. Ian realized that he obviously had not fully dealt with his past, and if the attacks keep escalating the way they have, he might not ever have the chance to do so.
Rialto is sadly the last book in the Unbreakable Bonds series, and I so hate to say goodbye to this group of friends who have banded together to form an incredible "found family". Ian must try and deal with whatever has brought his past back and he knows he has some final pieces of his past life to wrap up. We also get to check in on all the others. All of the men that we the readers of this wonderful series have grown to love, are becoming settled as the series comes to a close.
Ian’s dream was always to own his own restaurant, and that dream has become a reality. Now the restaurant and Ian's own safety is being targeted. He knows what could be at stake, and he tries to handle things on his own. I really, really liked all the men in this series and the personal relationships they have created with each other and their "significant others". It was, of course, clear that our Ian was in serious trouble, and after everything he has suffered in his past, tries to make it out as being "no big deal"...but after a while, this tactic just stops working. Ian’s livelihood...his restaurant... is being attacked, as well as Ian himself.
One problem that I had was that once the plot and the culprit is revealed, there were some areas that weren’t fully explained. How could this person have accomplished everything? These men then have to go on one more rescue mission to close out the series, but their antics have been a bit overdone, for lack of a better word. It just didn't read like their usual serious rescue missions.
I really loved seeing all of the guys together from this series and especially that they have all found their own special, solid families. They have all created something wonderful and their lives have grown. I would have liked "more" about the guys and their plans for the future. The end wasn’t as revealing as I would have liked it to be. Let's face it, I would have liked that Jocelynne Drake and Rinda Elliot to have had planned to write 50 or so, more books in this series...but I learned a longtime ago that we don't always get what we want. :)
I loved getting to meet all these men throughout the 8 books in this series. Watching their friendships grow into a family and, overall, my time with the "Unbreakable Bonds" men was time so very well spent. A Big "THANK YOU" to the two authors for a wonderful and delightful series. Could the two of you please just think about adding those other 42 books to this series????
December 13, 2019
Ok, so, it is not a secret that I have been a teensy bit anti these revisit stories. I loved Blaze, but was scared shitless it was going to mess with something already finished. Fracture, not so much. It took a couple I felt were settled and gave them more to deal with and this story wasn’t just more, it was almost too much. I still hate to think about it. And then there was Ignite, Rowe and Noah’s story. I didn’t feel as much fear with these two but still, I just wasn’t sure if all these guys needed another book. It was different than the others and well, I didn’t love it. At the end of that review though, I wrote this knowing Ian and Hollis were next.
So…
Yeah! I liked it! I really, really did. Like I said, I have been one of the few people who have been anti new stories about our favorite couples. I have not wanted added drama for them when I felt they had gotten their happily ever after. Little peeks into their happy life is one thing, writing a whole new book and bringing trouble? I didn’t like it. But this one, this one felt like I felt when reading Blaze. This one felt a little needed even though I didn’t realize it. This one felt like it filled a void that again, I don’t think I realized was there. This was just enough drama to not push me over the edge. I think Ian maybe needed a bit more of his story told. Maybe he needed a bit more closure. Maybe I just really love him and was happy to see where he was and what he was doing. I don’t know. I just wasn’t bothered by this installment.
This is the end and really, I feel like it ended perfectly. I don’t feel sad really, I feel happy. Thankful we got this series and thankful all these boys are where they should be. Plus, we still get Ward Security right?
Thanks for taking it easy with Ian and Hollis and giving us a story worthy of them.
**This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.**
And lastly, please God, if we get one more book ‘second’ book for Ian and Hollis please, please, please let it be all yummy food, fantastic clothes, hot appropriate sex and rainbows. Ian does not deserve anything less.
So…
Yeah! I liked it! I really, really did. Like I said, I have been one of the few people who have been anti new stories about our favorite couples. I have not wanted added drama for them when I felt they had gotten their happily ever after. Little peeks into their happy life is one thing, writing a whole new book and bringing trouble? I didn’t like it. But this one, this one felt like I felt when reading Blaze. This one felt a little needed even though I didn’t realize it. This one felt like it filled a void that again, I don’t think I realized was there. This was just enough drama to not push me over the edge. I think Ian maybe needed a bit more of his story told. Maybe he needed a bit more closure. Maybe I just really love him and was happy to see where he was and what he was doing. I don’t know. I just wasn’t bothered by this installment.
This is the end and really, I feel like it ended perfectly. I don’t feel sad really, I feel happy. Thankful we got this series and thankful all these boys are where they should be. Plus, we still get Ward Security right?
Thanks for taking it easy with Ian and Hollis and giving us a story worthy of them.
**This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.**
December 21, 2019
🍷🍷🍷🍷🍷 5 stars 🍷🍷🍷🍷🍷
This was bittersweet for me as I love these four couples, I have spent nearly three years getting to know them all and falling in love with each couple and sharing in all the drama and everything they have all been through, I am sad as this is their final adventure as Rialto is the last book in the Unbreakable Bonds series.
I loved spending this time with Ian and Hollis as these two have had less page time than the others as Ian has always been left out of the shenanigans by Lucas, Snow and Rowe but this is HIS time to shine and pick the code names and not to be left out of anything.
Ian and Hollis have settled into married life and everything is going great until someone starts to target Rialto and Ian.
Ian is determined to do this his way and he stands up to his family. I had forgotten how cute Ian and Hollis are as a couple and how HOT they are in the bedroom
This is a fantastic way to end a fantastic series I was gripped by every page and the epilogue was sweet, had me smiling. I will definitely be re-reading these in the future.
This was bittersweet for me as I love these four couples, I have spent nearly three years getting to know them all and falling in love with each couple and sharing in all the drama and everything they have all been through, I am sad as this is their final adventure as Rialto is the last book in the Unbreakable Bonds series.
I loved spending this time with Ian and Hollis as these two have had less page time than the others as Ian has always been left out of the shenanigans by Lucas, Snow and Rowe but this is HIS time to shine and pick the code names and not to be left out of anything.
Ian and Hollis have settled into married life and everything is going great until someone starts to target Rialto and Ian.
Ian is determined to do this his way and he stands up to his family. I had forgotten how cute Ian and Hollis are as a couple and how HOT they are in the bedroom
This is a fantastic way to end a fantastic series I was gripped by every page and the epilogue was sweet, had me smiling. I will definitely be re-reading these in the future.
December 22, 2019
A Satisfying and Proper Finale
Time to say goodbye to Lucas and Andrei, Snow and Jude, Rowe and Noah , Ian and Hollis , the unforgettable and memorable characters of the always entertaining Unbreakable Bond Series.
With all of the ingredients, we have come to expect and love from a Jocelynn Drake and Linda Elliott books, Rialto , pass muster with flying colors.
It also, give all fans of the series a satisfying and proper conclusion to every plot and storyline. Sweet HEA for all couples and a delightful epilogue 1 year into the future.
Time to say goodbye to Lucas and Andrei, Snow and Jude, Rowe and Noah , Ian and Hollis , the unforgettable and memorable characters of the always entertaining Unbreakable Bond Series.
With all of the ingredients, we have come to expect and love from a Jocelynn Drake and Linda Elliott books, Rialto , pass muster with flying colors.
It also, give all fans of the series a satisfying and proper conclusion to every plot and storyline. Sweet HEA for all couples and a delightful epilogue 1 year into the future.
January 5, 2020
what a great ending!
RTC
June 24, 2022
It took me two and a half years to feel ready to finish off this series. It's easily one of my top favourites, and a big part of me never wanted to read this final book. I wasn't ready to say goodbye. But I finally felt ready, and wow I wasn't disappointed. This was such a sweet, fun, amazing, ending. Ian and Hollis finally got some closure on Ian's dark past, and we got to see all our guys living their happily ever afters. It was the perfect ending, and I absolutely will be rereading this series for the rest of my life. Highly recommend this series!
August 2, 2025
Ok, this wasn't a favorite of mine. I felt like this was a repeat of another book in this series. Maybe it's because Hollis and Ian aren't my favorite couple of this series. Or it might be that this whole storyline has just been overused in all of these books, and it's the 8th book.
The epilogue was nice. Nice to see where the couples were in the future. But honestly, I'm glad the series is over.
The epilogue was nice. Nice to see where the couples were in the future. But honestly, I'm glad the series is over.
April 28, 2022
3.5 rounded up. This was good but again not great. I really like Ian and Hollis but I still don't feel I know Hollis. The mystery was good but I feel it left a bit open ended so not a fan of the resolution . This was less sex heavy than previous books in the second half of the series which is a good thing to me. The epilogue didn't whaou me which was strange.
Overall I really enjoyed this series but I'm not sure we needed the second half. We did not really get to know the guys more, the sex scenes did not add anything in the 4 later books. I really liked all the couples and the mysteries were mostly great. I can't choose a favorite couple but my least favorite is Lucas and Andrei for sure. I would highly recommend this whole series to people who like mystery-romances. I will read the spin off for sure but I'm taking a break.
Overall I really enjoyed this series but I'm not sure we needed the second half. We did not really get to know the guys more, the sex scenes did not add anything in the 4 later books. I really liked all the couples and the mysteries were mostly great. I can't choose a favorite couple but my least favorite is Lucas and Andrei for sure. I would highly recommend this whole series to people who like mystery-romances. I will read the spin off for sure but I'm taking a break.
February 20, 2021
3.75 rounded up.
Ian’s book was rather dramatic, and I didn’t particularly enjoy his mother Theresa complex , so it’s not my favorite, but I still liked it. Too bad we didn’t get to see Snow and Jude’s wedding, though! They’re my fave couple and theirs is the one wedding that was off-page! WTF, man? #notfair
I had so much fun with this series, but now I feel like I need to take a short break from contemporary romance. I’ll miss these guys, though. Definitely will read the Ward Security spin-off sometime in the future.
Ian’s book was rather dramatic, and I didn’t particularly enjoy his mother Theresa complex , so it’s not my favorite, but I still liked it. Too bad we didn’t get to see Snow and Jude’s wedding, though! They’re my fave couple and theirs is the one wedding that was off-page! WTF, man? #notfair
I had so much fun with this series, but now I feel like I need to take a short break from contemporary romance. I’ll miss these guys, though. Definitely will read the Ward Security spin-off sometime in the future.
April 14, 2022
Yess! Can't wait! Ian is my favorite! Just finished book 5 and now I'm going to read some of Ward security because it seems to come earlier in the timeline! So I'll finish all the books just in time for Rialto! Merry Christmas to me!
Edit 12/16: Great read and a great conclusion to the series!
Edit 12/16: Great read and a great conclusion to the series!
December 28, 2019
*4.5 stars*
All the love for these boys. Loved reading about Ian and Hollis again. I think this book came full circle because of this couple. Lovely to see all the men living their happy lives. I could read and read about all of them.
If you have not started this series then get on with it.. Happy stuf.
December 23, 2019
Really loved this series and it was a nice way to close it ... after such turbulence and drama the team finally found their peace joy and happiness. A really great read ❤️
December 24, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Rialto is the last book in the Unbreakable Bonds series, and it’s sad to say goodbye to this group of friends who have banded together to make an incredible family. This book is Ian’s story, as his past comes back and he has some final pieces to wrap up. It also shows all of the men becoming settled in their own way as the series comes to a close.
It was great to see all of the men from the series here and the solid family they have created and how their lives have grown. Some couples got more page time, while others’ last scenes were just told in a few sentences and the end wasn’t as balanced as I would have liked.
It was great to get to meet all of these men throughout the series and watch their friendships grow into a family and, overall, my time with the Unbreakable men was time well spent.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Rialto is the last book in the Unbreakable Bonds series, and it’s sad to say goodbye to this group of friends who have banded together to make an incredible family. This book is Ian’s story, as his past comes back and he has some final pieces to wrap up. It also shows all of the men becoming settled in their own way as the series comes to a close.
It was great to see all of the men from the series here and the solid family they have created and how their lives have grown. Some couples got more page time, while others’ last scenes were just told in a few sentences and the end wasn’t as balanced as I would have liked.
It was great to get to meet all of these men throughout the series and watch their friendships grow into a family and, overall, my time with the Unbreakable men was time well spent.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
December 20, 2019
4.5 stars - I was a little sad going into this book knowing it was the final installment. The series sort of comes full circle with another story featuring Ian and Hollis which begins about 4 months post-marriage. Things are going great with their jobs, and they have begun to put their ducks in a row to prepare for the introduction of children into their family. Unfortunately, life has other plans in the short term when the restaurant, and more specifically Ian, is targeted.
As the incidents and attacks become more personal, the guys can’t help but think about Jagger and everything they each went through where he was concerned. They seemed to have all moved on with their lives, but it appears they haven’t all coped quite as well as they thought. Among other things, this solidifies their clearly unbreakable bond and encourages them to communicate and talk about it allowing them to face everything together.
Of course, the whole gang is here to back each other up. They are, after all, one big family, and I loved seeing them all again. It was really nice to see the various couples are happy, and the lovely epilogue did just that.
So, all in all, this was a fabulous wrap-up to the series. It brought out issues that clearly needed to be dealt with in order for everyone involved to finally move on once and for all, and it has been an exciting ride with each of them. I really hope we get to see some cameos in the future, perhaps in the Ward Security series, or whatever else this dynamic duo writing team comes up with. Highly recommend the entire series.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews
December 17, 2019
❤ Bye boys!
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