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The Masons #2
Stepbrother With Benefits
The first time I laid eyes on James Mason, the world stood still.
Unfortunately, the tether ball I’d just spiked didn’t, and when it ploughed into the back of my distracted head, I bit my tongue so hard I tasted blood.
I don't know why I was so dumbstruck. All he did was ride up on his skateboard and call my best friend’s name.
Perhaps it was his confidence that roused me. Or the funny cowlick at the front of his dirty-blond hair. Or the way his jeans sagged on his hips… Not that I’d ever noticed the way a boy’s jeans fit before.
But it wasn’t my name he called that day, and it never will be.
Because guys like James Mason don’t fall for bookworms like me. And even if they did, that farfetched dream died the day he became the stepbrother I never wanted.
Not that I don’t want him.
I love the idea of him wrestling me to the floor and pinning me down with the weight of his body. But there’s nothing familial about the way I wish he would pull my hair, the way I wish he would pull me close.
I’ll be taking that secret to the grave, though, because our families have been through enough.
Besides, he doesn’t see me that way.
So I keep biting my tongue. As hard as it takes to keep my secret.
And only when I’m alone do I ever imagine that it’s him.
Unfortunately, the tether ball I’d just spiked didn’t, and when it ploughed into the back of my distracted head, I bit my tongue so hard I tasted blood.
I don't know why I was so dumbstruck. All he did was ride up on his skateboard and call my best friend’s name.
Perhaps it was his confidence that roused me. Or the funny cowlick at the front of his dirty-blond hair. Or the way his jeans sagged on his hips… Not that I’d ever noticed the way a boy’s jeans fit before.
But it wasn’t my name he called that day, and it never will be.
Because guys like James Mason don’t fall for bookworms like me. And even if they did, that farfetched dream died the day he became the stepbrother I never wanted.
Not that I don’t want him.
I love the idea of him wrestling me to the floor and pinning me down with the weight of his body. But there’s nothing familial about the way I wish he would pull my hair, the way I wish he would pull me close.
I’ll be taking that secret to the grave, though, because our families have been through enough.
Besides, he doesn’t see me that way.
So I keep biting my tongue. As hard as it takes to keep my secret.
And only when I’m alone do I ever imagine that it’s him.
279 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2020
298 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
About the author
Hazel Kelly
57 books811 followersHazel Kelly is an Amazon bestselling author who writes sweet and steamy romance that will make you smile all over.
When she's not traveling the globe in search of cozy hammocks to write in, she enjoys tackling her tbr list with a nice big glass of anything will do. She lives in Dublin with her favorite Irishman and their three-legged cat.
For updates (and warm fuzzies!) follow Hazel on:
Instagram➜ www.instagram.com/hazelkellyauthor
And join her Inner Circle @ ➜ www.hazelkelly.com/innercircle
When she's not traveling the globe in search of cozy hammocks to write in, she enjoys tackling her tbr list with a nice big glass of anything will do. She lives in Dublin with her favorite Irishman and their three-legged cat.
For updates (and warm fuzzies!) follow Hazel on:
Instagram➜ www.instagram.com/hazelkellyauthor
And join her Inner Circle @ ➜ www.hazelkelly.com/innercircle
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
February 11, 2020
Feeling like the third wheel at his own apartment where his sister and best friend have gotten together (see book #1 My Best Friend's Sister), James Mason has bought a house with issues almost as big as his family issues. And James’s family situation is only getting dicier when he temporarily moves into his dad’s house, still occupied by his step-sister.
Brie, 25, is a graduate student working on her MFA and trying to get published. She doesn’t want any distractions, but it’s hard to ignore the step-brother who she’s always had a crush on.
I took an interest in James during the first book so I was pleased that he got his own story. Told via his and Brie’s alternating first person POV, James is a solid, reliable guy, trying to hold his family together and get the girl he always had a thing for. His advice and assessment about their parents was spot on.
I had mixed feelings on Brie. On one hand, I high fived her for comments such as:
At other times, I found her a little cool (not cold though) and detached. Now this was probably fitting for her character who’d gotten the short end of the stick when it came to her family, but it made it harder to feel warm and fuzzy about her.
I was frustrated with her at times, especially when she pushed James away or didn’t even let him in. She didn’t have the spunk that Maddy did in the previous book.
In fact, that low angst steamy feel from book one seemed missing, right along with the actual Scrabble scene. It was such a motif and yet was only referenced rather than depicted. I kinda felt like it mistakenly ended up on the cutting room floor and needed reinserted. No pun intended….okay maybe a little one.
What I ate up (I swear no pun this time) was the appearances of Quinn and Maddy. Quinn especially stole some of the scenes and made me want to re-read their story.
Now I’m hoping Maeve Mason gets her own book and her man before she makes a trip to the sperm bank.
Safety Recap:
*I volunteered to review this ARC from the author. All reviews written by Book-Bosomed Book Blog are honest opinions. In the interest of providing unbiased book reviews and to avoid misleading other readers, it is the blog’s policy not to withhold or delay any reviews no matter the star rating. To the best of my knowledge, this title was presented to the blog without any conditions or stipulations.
Brie, 25, is a graduate student working on her MFA and trying to get published. She doesn’t want any distractions, but it’s hard to ignore the step-brother who she’s always had a crush on.
“She’d never uttered my name like that before, as if she were pleading with me and surrendering at the same time. The sound made me harden on the outside and soften within. I sank my fingers into her hips and sucked a slip of her neck between my teeth, eliciting a whimper from her that made me forget everything: who we were, why it took me so long to do this, why it shouldn’t continue.”
I took an interest in James during the first book so I was pleased that he got his own story. Told via his and Brie’s alternating first person POV, James is a solid, reliable guy, trying to hold his family together and get the girl he always had a thing for. His advice and assessment about their parents was spot on.
I had mixed feelings on Brie. On one hand, I high fived her for comments such as:
“‘Don’t infect me with your offensively dated views on gender roles.’”
At other times, I found her a little cool (not cold though) and detached. Now this was probably fitting for her character who’d gotten the short end of the stick when it came to her family, but it made it harder to feel warm and fuzzy about her.
“I was a headcase lately, swinging like a pendulum from blanket impersonator one minute to manic queen of vengeance the next, my moods as hard to predict as the fall weather.”
I was frustrated with her at times, especially when she pushed James away or didn’t even let him in. She didn’t have the spunk that Maddy did in the previous book.
In fact, that low angst steamy feel from book one seemed missing, right along with the actual Scrabble scene. It was such a motif and yet was only referenced rather than depicted. I kinda felt like it mistakenly ended up on the cutting room floor and needed reinserted. No pun intended….okay maybe a little one.
What I ate up (I swear no pun this time) was the appearances of Quinn and Maddy. Quinn especially stole some of the scenes and made me want to re-read their story.
Now I’m hoping Maeve Mason gets her own book and her man before she makes a trip to the sperm bank.
Safety Recap:
*I volunteered to review this ARC from the author. All reviews written by Book-Bosomed Book Blog are honest opinions. In the interest of providing unbiased book reviews and to avoid misleading other readers, it is the blog’s policy not to withhold or delay any reviews no matter the star rating. To the best of my knowledge, this title was presented to the blog without any conditions or stipulations.
February 10, 2020
WOW! What a ride!
Okay, first of all, if you are a sensitive person, do not read this book. It deals with a pretty heavy issue that some people may be offended by.
Now that the PSA is done, this book is FANTASTIC! Sucked me in right from the beginning and didn't let me go.
I think what I like the best about Hazel's books, this one included, is the "voice" of the heroine; smart and yet funny in a sarcastic kind of way (totally speaks my language!)
I really felt for Brie; she had a rough ride through life, but now here she is, thrust into a crazy living situation with the one man she has always cared for and never got over: Her best friend's brother.
Thanks to the alternating points-of-view, I was also privy to James' thoughts and was shocked to learn what he had always thought of Brie. No spoilers!
All in all, this is another steamy new adult romance by Hazel, and yet another reminder of why I love her books!
(I was given this book in consideration of my honest thoughts)
Okay, first of all, if you are a sensitive person, do not read this book. It deals with a pretty heavy issue that some people may be offended by.
Now that the PSA is done, this book is FANTASTIC! Sucked me in right from the beginning and didn't let me go.
I think what I like the best about Hazel's books, this one included, is the "voice" of the heroine; smart and yet funny in a sarcastic kind of way (totally speaks my language!)
I really felt for Brie; she had a rough ride through life, but now here she is, thrust into a crazy living situation with the one man she has always cared for and never got over: Her best friend's brother.
Thanks to the alternating points-of-view, I was also privy to James' thoughts and was shocked to learn what he had always thought of Brie. No spoilers!
All in all, this is another steamy new adult romance by Hazel, and yet another reminder of why I love her books!
(I was given this book in consideration of my honest thoughts)
February 13, 2020
I'm a complete sucker for stepbrother books. So when I saw that Hazel Kelly had a new book out, and it was a stepbrother book, I was all over it.
I really loved the history between Brie and James. I loved all the little tidbits that were dropped about the crushes that were had, the history between them and when they first knew the liked each other.
I loved watching them fall in love, and I loved how all in James was. He was definitely the highlight of this book, how much he cared.
I really loved the history between Brie and James. I loved all the little tidbits that were dropped about the crushes that were had, the history between them and when they first knew the liked each other.
I loved watching them fall in love, and I loved how all in James was. He was definitely the highlight of this book, how much he cared.
July 6, 2024
This was a "me too" manifesto disguised as a step-brother romance. I did like the way the couple interacted, we definitely were shown genuine chemistry. Unfortunately there wasn't enough of it and instead a large portion of the book was wrapped up in an irrelevant side story about the h being felt up by her writing professor and her reaction to it. There'd be nothing wrong with it except that much like a wedding cake topper being held up by a cupcake the subject matter was too heavy for the main story and smashed the whole thing.
February 4, 2020
I don't think there is a Hazel Kelly book I have not liked and this was no exception.
This is the 2nd in the series centered around a group of siblings Maddy, James and Maeve. This is James story.
James has been mesermised by his sisters best friend Brie since they were at school but has kept his feelings secret as she is also now his step sister. What he doesn't know is that Brie has also harboured feelings for him all this time too. The pair find themselves living together whilst their parents are on holiday. The tension between them is HOT!!! Hazel always writes such a good build up and it didn't disapoint. I loved the side story to this book centered around Brie and her writing. It is such a powerful story and I love what it added to the book. I'm glad we had some moments with Quinn and Maddy again and the little snippets of Maeve have left me intrigued for her book which is coming next. I'm a total sucker for a forbidden romance and this checked all my boxes. Roll on book 3!
This is the 2nd in the series centered around a group of siblings Maddy, James and Maeve. This is James story.
James has been mesermised by his sisters best friend Brie since they were at school but has kept his feelings secret as she is also now his step sister. What he doesn't know is that Brie has also harboured feelings for him all this time too. The pair find themselves living together whilst their parents are on holiday. The tension between them is HOT!!! Hazel always writes such a good build up and it didn't disapoint. I loved the side story to this book centered around Brie and her writing. It is such a powerful story and I love what it added to the book. I'm glad we had some moments with Quinn and Maddy again and the little snippets of Maeve have left me intrigued for her book which is coming next. I'm a total sucker for a forbidden romance and this checked all my boxes. Roll on book 3!
February 7, 2020
Stepbrother with Benefits is book 2 in The Masons Series. I keep going back and forth if you can read this book as a standalone. In some sense, yes, you can. But if you want to understand the dynamics of James and Brie’s combined family, then I would highly recommend reading book one first. It explains the backstory to the series better than this book does.
I am going to throw up a trigger warning. A professor sexually assaults Brie in the middle of the book. It wasn’t rape but a combination of grabbing (breast and genitals) and threats made against Brie. It was a direct reference to the #MeToo moment. If this triggers you, I suggest picking up another book to read. The author did a fantastic job of showing how raw Brie was after that and how she dealt with it.
Brie and James had some serious chemistry going on in this book. Even before they had sex, their encounters were sexually charged. When they had sex, it was flipping amazeballs. One of the best sex scenes I have read to date. Even I was left feeling fulfilled by reading it!!
I didn’t get the “Ewww” factor with Brie and James being stepbrother and sister. One reason: They weren’t blood-related. Another reason: They weren’t raised to think of themselves as siblings. Brie was Maddy’s friend way before James’s father, and Brie’s mother got married. So they knew each other. If anything, I thought that it was a sweet romance. It was evident that James loved Brie. I guessed that right from the beginning.
I liked Brie, and I had an instant connection with her. She was quiet and didn’t bother anyone. She was loyal to her best friend, to the point where she backed off when she thought her friend was interested in James. But, she was also a fighter and a survivor.
I loved James in this book. He had come across as uptight and controlling in Maddy and Quinn’s story. So to see him unbend in this book was excellent. What I loved is that he acknowledged his feelings for Brie reasonably early in the book, and he spent most of the book trying to win her over. The most telling scene was when he went after the professor but refused to do anything. I had tears streaming down my face. If only all men (and women) could act like that when a loved one had been harmed. I loved that he also fought for her. He started reading Harry Potter, and that scene in the ice cream store was sweet.
I will say that both Brie and James dealt with the backlash about their relationship fantastically. I loved how James put various people in their places.
The end of Stepbrother with Benefits was terrific. Not only did it set up Maeve’s story perfectly, but the way it ended with James and Brie was perfect. Put it this way, they both deserved the HEA that they got.
I am going to throw up a trigger warning. A professor sexually assaults Brie in the middle of the book. It wasn’t rape but a combination of grabbing (breast and genitals) and threats made against Brie. It was a direct reference to the #MeToo moment. If this triggers you, I suggest picking up another book to read. The author did a fantastic job of showing how raw Brie was after that and how she dealt with it.
Brie and James had some serious chemistry going on in this book. Even before they had sex, their encounters were sexually charged. When they had sex, it was flipping amazeballs. One of the best sex scenes I have read to date. Even I was left feeling fulfilled by reading it!!
I didn’t get the “Ewww” factor with Brie and James being stepbrother and sister. One reason: They weren’t blood-related. Another reason: They weren’t raised to think of themselves as siblings. Brie was Maddy’s friend way before James’s father, and Brie’s mother got married. So they knew each other. If anything, I thought that it was a sweet romance. It was evident that James loved Brie. I guessed that right from the beginning.
I liked Brie, and I had an instant connection with her. She was quiet and didn’t bother anyone. She was loyal to her best friend, to the point where she backed off when she thought her friend was interested in James. But, she was also a fighter and a survivor.
I loved James in this book. He had come across as uptight and controlling in Maddy and Quinn’s story. So to see him unbend in this book was excellent. What I loved is that he acknowledged his feelings for Brie reasonably early in the book, and he spent most of the book trying to win her over. The most telling scene was when he went after the professor but refused to do anything. I had tears streaming down my face. If only all men (and women) could act like that when a loved one had been harmed. I loved that he also fought for her. He started reading Harry Potter, and that scene in the ice cream store was sweet.
I will say that both Brie and James dealt with the backlash about their relationship fantastically. I loved how James put various people in their places.
The end of Stepbrother with Benefits was terrific. Not only did it set up Maeve’s story perfectly, but the way it ended with James and Brie was perfect. Put it this way, they both deserved the HEA that they got.
February 4, 2020
Forbidden romances are the stories that I can’t help but love the most, so when Hazel Kelly writes one, she always manages to hit the right spots for what I look for in a book. This time was no different and being honest it was interesting seeing how this book played out. Back in the first book, I thought James was an interesting character, he seemed cocky, knew what he wanted and would always put his family first. Yet in this book you start to see how difficult he finds it that his best friend (Quinn) and his little sister (Maddie) are now together, whilst he wishes his sister to be happy, at the same time he resents it because it’s like she’s taken away his best friend, even though that’s not what really happens. At the same time, he is missing something and it hurts him that he has to be the strong one all the time. I think Hazel captured everything perfectly and I can’t fault anything at all, I was hooked from the entire time I picked up the book. I highly recommend giving this book a read, it’s the perfect mix of forbidden love and it’s pretty saucy.
James has known Brie for as long as he can remember, she was his sister’s best friend, and from the moment he laid eyes on her, he knew he felt something for her. However, instead of ever actually doing something, he kept everything hidden away and then one day both of their lives and families changed forever. With James’ dad leaving their family broken and running off to be with Brie’s mom, it ripped hearts and friendships. Now years later, he’s back at his dad’s house whilst his place is being renovated and what was supposedly a quiet night turns into his stepsister (Brie) breaking into the place…. Not seeing each other for years, brings back feelings that he thought had vanished, but he knows it’s wrong on so many levels. Will he give into temptation or will he stick with his rules?
February 4, 2020
More than just a romance!
Once again, I've been delighted by one of Hazel's books. This one was a particular gem. Tackling a subject (step-love) that seems taboo... but really shouldn't be.
All of the characters were well-rounded and actually had some personality. James was suitably gorgeous, loving, manly and supportive... while Brie was feisty yet delicate. I loved their banter and sarcasm... right up my alley!
I loved the romance between the Brie and James of course - but I also really enjoyed the way that the serious message was handled within the pages too. For too long, people have suffered sexual harassment... and this book tackles it head on.
I'm hoping that we'll read more about Brie and James' friends such as Crystal - in future books.
Another corker Hazel - thank you!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review. I loved the book and was very very happy to give it a glowing review.
Once again, I've been delighted by one of Hazel's books. This one was a particular gem. Tackling a subject (step-love) that seems taboo... but really shouldn't be.
All of the characters were well-rounded and actually had some personality. James was suitably gorgeous, loving, manly and supportive... while Brie was feisty yet delicate. I loved their banter and sarcasm... right up my alley!
I loved the romance between the Brie and James of course - but I also really enjoyed the way that the serious message was handled within the pages too. For too long, people have suffered sexual harassment... and this book tackles it head on.
I'm hoping that we'll read more about Brie and James' friends such as Crystal - in future books.
Another corker Hazel - thank you!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review. I loved the book and was very very happy to give it a glowing review.
February 2, 2020
James has just purchased a new home, but before he can move into his bachelor pad he has to have some mold treated and a little work done. So, with his home inhabitable his father offers up his home while he is on vacation. A few weeks back in the home he grew up in shouldn't be too bad... a nice peaceful little stay since he'll have the house to himself. Or will he?
His father never mentioned any additional house guests, but when he hears a commotion in the middle of the night, witnesses his step-sisters bare rear-end coming through the window, he soon realizes he won't be staying there alone after all. Which means things are about to get far more exciting at the home front...
From the moment these two are reunited you could feel something brewing in the air, there was an intensity there that was certain to lead to something steamy... and boy did it ever! Neither of them were looking for a relationship, both having so much going on in their personal lives, but one little kiss changed everything. Igniting a passionate little affair, that started as just a bit of fun, but quickly became something else entirely. Watching these two maneuver through this unexpected change in their lives was not only entertaining, but also good on the heart too. I really enjoyed this pairing, they complimented one another nicely, brought the best in one another, and made it was easy to see that they were meant for on another. If you want a feel-good emotionally rich romance story then look no further, Stepbrother with Benefits is certain to check all the boxes!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
His father never mentioned any additional house guests, but when he hears a commotion in the middle of the night, witnesses his step-sisters bare rear-end coming through the window, he soon realizes he won't be staying there alone after all. Which means things are about to get far more exciting at the home front...
From the moment these two are reunited you could feel something brewing in the air, there was an intensity there that was certain to lead to something steamy... and boy did it ever! Neither of them were looking for a relationship, both having so much going on in their personal lives, but one little kiss changed everything. Igniting a passionate little affair, that started as just a bit of fun, but quickly became something else entirely. Watching these two maneuver through this unexpected change in their lives was not only entertaining, but also good on the heart too. I really enjoyed this pairing, they complimented one another nicely, brought the best in one another, and made it was easy to see that they were meant for on another. If you want a feel-good emotionally rich romance story then look no further, Stepbrother with Benefits is certain to check all the boxes!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
February 6, 2020
This was a good read. James is leaving his apartment because he is tired of being the third wheel. He ends up going back to his old family home. The problem is that his stepsister is Brie is staying there too. She has always liked him and as the book progresses he begins to realize he has felt the same. They then begin a romance. Of course some people end up having a problem but thankfully their closest friends accept them. Which allows them to have their happy ending.
February 13, 2020
When I started reading this story, I could not put it down. I read the book in one day. This author is an awesome writer. I can not wait to read more of their books. Keep up the great work. You should definitely read this book.
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
February 12, 2020
I really enjoyed James and Brie's story. The chemistry between them is obvious to some but not to each other. James is a great guy, sweet, funny, and sexy. Brie is sweet, quiet, beautiful and sassy. The family drama plays an important part of their relationship but they work through it and get their HEA.
February 5, 2020
They ended before they could begin.
Because their parents got married and they became steps. Brie has crushed on James for years.
James has firmly put her in a the steps box and is determined never to see her as anything else.
It’s funny, sweet, awkward and steamy all rolled into one great read.
Highly recommend.
Because their parents got married and they became steps. Brie has crushed on James for years.
James has firmly put her in a the steps box and is determined never to see her as anything else.
It’s funny, sweet, awkward and steamy all rolled into one great read.
Highly recommend.
February 5, 2020
Another amazing book from Hazel! Second book in the series and enjoyed this one as much as the first. characters were great and storyline was fab.
Great book and highly recommended
Great book and highly recommended
February 6, 2020
What can I say? I love everything this author writes. Stepbrother with Benefits is no exception. Loved the characters. Brie is a sweetheart and I adored sexy, romantic James. When he decides to reveal his feelings to Brie he's met with some hesitation on her part. However, he doesn't let that deter him because he knows she has feelings for him too and he pursues her in the sexiest, most persistent, heart-full-of-love way. Great writing by Hazel Kelly in this warm-hearted sexy romance. Can't wait to see which Mason family member story she tells next.
I am voluntarily reviewing an advance reader copy of this book.
I am voluntarily reviewing an advance reader copy of this book.
February 5, 2020
Another great Kelly read!
You can enjoy this book even if you haven’t read the first book in the series. I did. James has been captivated by Brie for years, although she has recently become his stepsister. With the feeling being mutual, it is only a matter of time before the secret is out. Ms. Kelly cleverly works it out very cleverly, and you’ll definitely enjoy the entire story.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
You can enjoy this book even if you haven’t read the first book in the series. I did. James has been captivated by Brie for years, although she has recently become his stepsister. With the feeling being mutual, it is only a matter of time before the secret is out. Ms. Kelly cleverly works it out very cleverly, and you’ll definitely enjoy the entire story.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 4, 2020
A definite page turner. James is so charming, funny, caring and loving. He is the perfect match for Brie. I couldn't stop reading, i wanted to know how their love story story turned out. I wasn't disappointed at all. I love how vivid Author Hazel describes. It makes me feel like i am seeing the characters in my mind's eye.
February 1, 2020
stepbrother with benefits is the 2nd book in the series and follows James and Brie. now anyone who has read the 1st book will know that James is the brother of Maddy and best friend to Quinn. after Quinn and Maddy got together and Maddy officially moved in James thought it best to moved out and having done so and bought a fixer upper he needed somewhere to stay while the work was being done on his new home. That when he moved into his dad and stepmoms house and into his childhood bedroom while they was off roaming around America looking for retirement lives. What he wasn't expecting was to find his stepsister if you could really call her that still living at home and her in childhood bedroom still. what he also wasn't expecting was the first time he saw her wouldn't be face to face it was face to butt cheek, classy I know haha.
Brie a struggling writer is used to rejection after so many letters of " I'm sorry to inform you..." or "It's with great sadness your just not what we are looking for" not to mention the mom and stepdad she had to put up with. then her crush from over a decade ago met her breaking in to her own home ass first. Only that crush had to die and fast as he was her stepbrother now and it shattered to many hearts already to show that he still melted her heart even now.
When things go wrong they go epically wrong but when thing go right? well let just say they blossom and nothing could be truer for the love birds that is James and Brie, although some may think there relationship could be seen as Taboo there love for each other is anything but.
hazel once again bragged me in on this emotional episode of James and Brie but I just didn't want to stop reading it I wanted to reading every inch of there's and there friends life's like it was a permanent soap opera playing in my head. Hazel Kelly rocked the writing world again I cant find anything bad to say about any of her books that I have read.
If you like a bit of taboo that not really taboo then this is a book for you. detailed but not overly yet explains everything you need to know. great plot great flow.
like I said this is book book 2 in the series but can be read as a standalone tho I highly recommed that you read book 1 first as you find a little back story in my best friends little sister.
Brie a struggling writer is used to rejection after so many letters of " I'm sorry to inform you..." or "It's with great sadness your just not what we are looking for" not to mention the mom and stepdad she had to put up with. then her crush from over a decade ago met her breaking in to her own home ass first. Only that crush had to die and fast as he was her stepbrother now and it shattered to many hearts already to show that he still melted her heart even now.
When things go wrong they go epically wrong but when thing go right? well let just say they blossom and nothing could be truer for the love birds that is James and Brie, although some may think there relationship could be seen as Taboo there love for each other is anything but.
hazel once again bragged me in on this emotional episode of James and Brie but I just didn't want to stop reading it I wanted to reading every inch of there's and there friends life's like it was a permanent soap opera playing in my head. Hazel Kelly rocked the writing world again I cant find anything bad to say about any of her books that I have read.
If you like a bit of taboo that not really taboo then this is a book for you. detailed but not overly yet explains everything you need to know. great plot great flow.
like I said this is book book 2 in the series but can be read as a standalone tho I highly recommed that you read book 1 first as you find a little back story in my best friends little sister.
February 2, 2020
This is the second book in The Masons series. The first was about Maddy & Quinn. This book is about James, Maddy’s older brother and Quinn’s best friend, and Brie.
Confession time! I am a sucker for a steamy step-sibling romance. I love the angst involved with falling for someone that’s forbidden. This book was a whole lot more than that!
Brie has had a crush since she was a young kid. She was his sister Maddy’s best friend. She was at their house often. James was a young teen trying to decipher how he felt about Brie. She was like family but he definitely didn’t see her as a sister. Brie’s mother and James’s dad destroyed their whole world in one foul swoop when his dad left his mom and married Brie’s mom. Now they really were family.
How do you hide your feelings for someone after your selfish parents take your choice away?!?
This book was INCREDIBLE! Yes, there was the steamy, juicy step-sibling story. But it was the heartfelt love between Brie and James that made this book epic! I was angry with how Maddy behaved after her dad left! I was livid with Brie’s mom and stepdad for their selfishness and not even caring how their actions affected their children! I was heartbroken for both Brie and James and how they had to struggle to hide their true feelings. And I was devastated by the violation Brie had experienced at the hands of someone who should have been trusted!
This book overwhelmed me with so many emotions! I had the tingles, butterflies, shallow breathing, some tears, and clenched fists!
I loved Brie, it was impossible not to. She wasn’t angry with Maddy, she was wholeheartedly passionate about writing, a good friend, and a good daughter. But James...he was pure perfection! He singlehandedly tried to keep his family in tact, tried to be their for Brie when everyone else seemed to abandon her, and he loved her fiercely! He was EVERYTHING!
I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Confession time! I am a sucker for a steamy step-sibling romance. I love the angst involved with falling for someone that’s forbidden. This book was a whole lot more than that!
Brie has had a crush since she was a young kid. She was his sister Maddy’s best friend. She was at their house often. James was a young teen trying to decipher how he felt about Brie. She was like family but he definitely didn’t see her as a sister. Brie’s mother and James’s dad destroyed their whole world in one foul swoop when his dad left his mom and married Brie’s mom. Now they really were family.
How do you hide your feelings for someone after your selfish parents take your choice away?!?
This book was INCREDIBLE! Yes, there was the steamy, juicy step-sibling story. But it was the heartfelt love between Brie and James that made this book epic! I was angry with how Maddy behaved after her dad left! I was livid with Brie’s mom and stepdad for their selfishness and not even caring how their actions affected their children! I was heartbroken for both Brie and James and how they had to struggle to hide their true feelings. And I was devastated by the violation Brie had experienced at the hands of someone who should have been trusted!
This book overwhelmed me with so many emotions! I had the tingles, butterflies, shallow breathing, some tears, and clenched fists!
I loved Brie, it was impossible not to. She wasn’t angry with Maddy, she was wholeheartedly passionate about writing, a good friend, and a good daughter. But James...he was pure perfection! He singlehandedly tried to keep his family in tact, tried to be their for Brie when everyone else seemed to abandon her, and he loved her fiercely! He was EVERYTHING!
I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
February 5, 2020
Hazel never disappoints. Every one of her books is spiked with heat and a side of sweetness.
James has been crushing on bookworm Brie since they were in school together, and Brie has always had the feels for the oh-so-handsome James. But then their parents had to ruin it all by going and getting married! Now they are kind of, but not really, related.
The second book in The Masons series. Book one introduced us to the Masons, along with Quinn - best friend and roommate to James, and new lover of his sister – awkward! To save himself from the whole third-wheel watching-my-best-friend-make-out-with-my-sister weirdness, James buys a new home. But it is in need of renovation and, after black mould is discovered, he has to move back to his dad and stepmothers house. His long time crush, and now stepsister, also happens to be home whilst the parents are away on holiday. Cue serious tension and cuteness.
The moment he sees her butt hanging through the basement window it is all sorts of steamy. There is the obvious guilt and strangeness about being attracted to someone that everyone says is your sibling. This is the perfect platform to build up the tension to maximum level. I love the forbidden romance aspect. I must admit that I don’t usually enjoy stories that have a sibling type relationship morph into a romance, but it didn’t feel off in this one as they were not small children when they became step-siblings.
I love the back story and the character development. I enjoyed seeing Quinn make a reappearance. Both James and Brie are great characters. Hazel sure knows how to write a dreamy guy. I am looking forward to discovering more about the final Mason, Maeve, and seeing a return of James, Brie, Quinn and Maddy.
James has been crushing on bookworm Brie since they were in school together, and Brie has always had the feels for the oh-so-handsome James. But then their parents had to ruin it all by going and getting married! Now they are kind of, but not really, related.
The second book in The Masons series. Book one introduced us to the Masons, along with Quinn - best friend and roommate to James, and new lover of his sister – awkward! To save himself from the whole third-wheel watching-my-best-friend-make-out-with-my-sister weirdness, James buys a new home. But it is in need of renovation and, after black mould is discovered, he has to move back to his dad and stepmothers house. His long time crush, and now stepsister, also happens to be home whilst the parents are away on holiday. Cue serious tension and cuteness.
The moment he sees her butt hanging through the basement window it is all sorts of steamy. There is the obvious guilt and strangeness about being attracted to someone that everyone says is your sibling. This is the perfect platform to build up the tension to maximum level. I love the forbidden romance aspect. I must admit that I don’t usually enjoy stories that have a sibling type relationship morph into a romance, but it didn’t feel off in this one as they were not small children when they became step-siblings.
I love the back story and the character development. I enjoyed seeing Quinn make a reappearance. Both James and Brie are great characters. Hazel sure knows how to write a dreamy guy. I am looking forward to discovering more about the final Mason, Maeve, and seeing a return of James, Brie, Quinn and Maddy.
April 26, 2020
Forbidden love that is meant to be
Stepbrother With Benefits is the second book in the Mason Family series by Hazel Kelly and is the story of James and Brie. James Mason is Maddy's older brother who returned home from Europe after being over the for a six month business trip. While he is back he is staying at his father's house as his place is being renovated, so who wants to live in a construction site. Brie is James' stepsister as her mother married James and Maddy's father, and they destroyed both family's as they were married and left to be with each other. Additionally Brie and Maddy had been best friends when they were young. Brie is also staying at the house as she has just gotten her MFA degree.
When Brie and James "encounter" each other in the house it is actually quite funny and both end up with a very big surprise. When they were teenagers Brie had a big crush on James and James like Maddy in a certain way but he also knew that she was "like" family, so a no go zone. But the spark is lite once again between them now as adults and the "like" family may not apply any more, or at least it can be shrugged off more easily.
This was a really good story and a wonderful second book in this series. Both James and Brie were written with a lot of depth and emotion and her back story is heartbreaking in more ways than one. She has had to overcome some things and is on the other side of it and was sweet and loving. James ended up being her rock and loving her unconditionally and accepting all of her.
I received a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Stepbrother With Benefits is the second book in the Mason Family series by Hazel Kelly and is the story of James and Brie. James Mason is Maddy's older brother who returned home from Europe after being over the for a six month business trip. While he is back he is staying at his father's house as his place is being renovated, so who wants to live in a construction site. Brie is James' stepsister as her mother married James and Maddy's father, and they destroyed both family's as they were married and left to be with each other. Additionally Brie and Maddy had been best friends when they were young. Brie is also staying at the house as she has just gotten her MFA degree.
When Brie and James "encounter" each other in the house it is actually quite funny and both end up with a very big surprise. When they were teenagers Brie had a big crush on James and James like Maddy in a certain way but he also knew that she was "like" family, so a no go zone. But the spark is lite once again between them now as adults and the "like" family may not apply any more, or at least it can be shrugged off more easily.
This was a really good story and a wonderful second book in this series. Both James and Brie were written with a lot of depth and emotion and her back story is heartbreaking in more ways than one. She has had to overcome some things and is on the other side of it and was sweet and loving. James ended up being her rock and loving her unconditionally and accepting all of her.
I received a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
February 4, 2020
Amount of sex 2 / 5
How explicit is the sex scenes 2 / 5
Story 4 / 5
Overall: 4 / 5
Stepbrother with Benefits is the second book in The Mason’s series written by author Hazel Kelly. Each book in the series focuses on a different couple and can be read as a standalone romance. If you’re like me and enjoy knowing all the backstories, I do recommend reading My Best Friend’s Sister, which is Maddy and Quinn’s story. Just know that it’s only a suggestion.
Stepbrother with Benefits tells the story of Jason Mason, who we were first introduced to in the first book. Jason is Maddy’s brother, and he has recently returned home after a six-month business trip to Europe. Jason is temporarily staying at his father’s house while he’s renovating the new home he’s recently purchased. Everything seemed to be going well, that is until he discovers Brie in an amusing scene. Brie was Maddy’s best friend when they were younger, but things got really complicated when her mother married Maddy and Jason’s father.
Brie is also staying at the house while she’s finishing her MFA degree, although she was expecting to be alone in the house and gets a big surprise when she discovers Jason.
I enjoyed reading Stepbrother with Benefits, but I did have a hard time relating to Brie in the beginning. As I continued to read the story, certain things were revealed, and then everything started to make sense. Overall it's a great story, and I'm looking forward to the next in the series!
Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Copy
How explicit is the sex scenes 2 / 5
Story 4 / 5
Overall: 4 / 5
Stepbrother with Benefits is the second book in The Mason’s series written by author Hazel Kelly. Each book in the series focuses on a different couple and can be read as a standalone romance. If you’re like me and enjoy knowing all the backstories, I do recommend reading My Best Friend’s Sister, which is Maddy and Quinn’s story. Just know that it’s only a suggestion.
Stepbrother with Benefits tells the story of Jason Mason, who we were first introduced to in the first book. Jason is Maddy’s brother, and he has recently returned home after a six-month business trip to Europe. Jason is temporarily staying at his father’s house while he’s renovating the new home he’s recently purchased. Everything seemed to be going well, that is until he discovers Brie in an amusing scene. Brie was Maddy’s best friend when they were younger, but things got really complicated when her mother married Maddy and Jason’s father.
Brie is also staying at the house while she’s finishing her MFA degree, although she was expecting to be alone in the house and gets a big surprise when she discovers Jason.
I enjoyed reading Stepbrother with Benefits, but I did have a hard time relating to Brie in the beginning. As I continued to read the story, certain things were revealed, and then everything started to make sense. Overall it's a great story, and I'm looking forward to the next in the series!
Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Copy
February 17, 2020
Hazel Kelly has done it again! Stepbrother With Benefits was a laugh out loud romance filled with great characters, tons of witty dialogue and a happily ever after that made you feel all warm and tingly at the end. I absolutely love James Mason. I feel like I said that to myself over and over again while reading this book...not because I was trying to convince myself but because he was that great. I loved the way that James and Brie tried to fight their attraction for each other, but it had been building for over ten years. I also liked that it wasn't just a physical attraction between them...they genuinely liked each other despite all the drama between their families. I love the world building that she does and how characters from the first book slip back in so easily. I LOVED Quinn in the first book so I was very happy to see him again. He is a fantastic voice of reason. In the end though what I really loved is how James pretty much decided what he wanted in his life and he didn't care who liked it or who didn't. This book will make you laugh, the chemistry between James and Brie is hot, but more than that, their connection is everything and if you're a Harry Potter fan like I am, you'll love all the HP references.
April 15, 2020
This is the second book in the series of the Mason family. It can be read as a standalone but the family is too great to miss.
James has returned from a job in London to find his sister is not only living in his apartment but has fallen in love with his best friend and roommate. Having enough of their love, he decides to buy his own place. With that came problems and him moving into his dad's place until the house is ready while his dad and wife are away. Little did he know his stepsister is also staying there. How they find out the other is there is how the book starts and from that moment I didn't want to put the book down. Brie and James have a history but more than that they both had crushes on each other growing up. Once she became his stepsister he didn't let his feelings known or so he thought. Now under the same roof the tension builds. I loved their story. This book has it all - friends, family, super hot chemistry, sweet beautiful moments and a moment no one should ever have to go through which could be a trigger for some. Hazel did a beautiful job with Brie's voice, her strength and James understanding and handling of it all!
James has returned from a job in London to find his sister is not only living in his apartment but has fallen in love with his best friend and roommate. Having enough of their love, he decides to buy his own place. With that came problems and him moving into his dad's place until the house is ready while his dad and wife are away. Little did he know his stepsister is also staying there. How they find out the other is there is how the book starts and from that moment I didn't want to put the book down. Brie and James have a history but more than that they both had crushes on each other growing up. Once she became his stepsister he didn't let his feelings known or so he thought. Now under the same roof the tension builds. I loved their story. This book has it all - friends, family, super hot chemistry, sweet beautiful moments and a moment no one should ever have to go through which could be a trigger for some. Hazel did a beautiful job with Brie's voice, her strength and James understanding and handling of it all!
February 3, 2020
As a romance reading enthusiast the biggest compliment I can think to give an author is to tell them how much I loved their work. “Hazel, I.loved.this.book.so.so.very.much.” I knew from past experience that I would enjoy it, because to date, not one of your books has failed to impress me. But this book right here is so much more than a forbidden romance contemporary read. It’s a beautiful love story between two people who for so many reasons should not work. It’s those very differences that will bring them together and make their relationship shine. Not only is this a story about heady attraction and sexy times, it’s a story that takes on a topic that has made headlines a lot in recent years. In the interest of keeping this a spoiler free review, I will only say that the topic is handled beautifully and thoughtfully. ”Stepbrother With Benefits” is a fantastic book and deserves way more than five stars. TBR this wonderful book and if you haven’t read “My Best Friend’s Sister” add that to your TBR list as well. (I read an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.)
June 16, 2020
You will ride a rollercoaster of emotions with this book. This might cause triggers with some that have been assaulted, so you might want to think twice before reading this book. Don't get me wrong it an excellent book, but I would hate to see someone break over some of the subject matter.
I loved Brie from the beginning. She is smart and quirky, but soft and sensitive too. She has had some hard times in her life, but she has never let it hold her back. She is going to become a writer if it is the last thing she does.
James has moved into his father's house until his house is finished. Little does he know that Brie is living there too. James finds out that Brie lives there too when she has to break into the house because she forgot her keys. The way he finds her will have your rolling with laughter!
Sharing the same living space with James proves to be interesting since she has had crush on him before her Mother married his Father. Little does she know that James has some secrets of his own. None of them are very brotherly.
I loved Brie from the beginning. She is smart and quirky, but soft and sensitive too. She has had some hard times in her life, but she has never let it hold her back. She is going to become a writer if it is the last thing she does.
James has moved into his father's house until his house is finished. Little does he know that Brie is living there too. James finds out that Brie lives there too when she has to break into the house because she forgot her keys. The way he finds her will have your rolling with laughter!
Sharing the same living space with James proves to be interesting since she has had crush on him before her Mother married his Father. Little does she know that James has some secrets of his own. None of them are very brotherly.
February 2, 2020
The second of the Mason family series. Here we meet only brother James. He and his stepsister Brie have secretly admired each other from afar.... when I say secretly of course everyone else in the family had noticed!!
Brie is a struggling writer who can’t seem to catch a break. Her self esteem is low and she feels like a bit of a misfit within her unconventional family. James is the lift she needs and when her world is turned upside down by a terrible and yet all too common event he is the comfort she needs without him even knowing it.
James is a great character, the dialogue and wit he shares with Quinn had me chuckling.
An enjoyable read, Brie did annoy me at times and I’m very impressed that James persevered....it is worthwhile reading the first in the series as Quinn and Maddie were very entertaining.
I received an arc from hidden gems and I am choosing to leave a review
Brie is a struggling writer who can’t seem to catch a break. Her self esteem is low and she feels like a bit of a misfit within her unconventional family. James is the lift she needs and when her world is turned upside down by a terrible and yet all too common event he is the comfort she needs without him even knowing it.
James is a great character, the dialogue and wit he shares with Quinn had me chuckling.
An enjoyable read, Brie did annoy me at times and I’m very impressed that James persevered....it is worthwhile reading the first in the series as Quinn and Maddie were very entertaining.
I received an arc from hidden gems and I am choosing to leave a review
January 29, 2020
I received this for an honest review!
It took me until about 40% of the way through before I could really get I to it! For any of you following the #metoo movement, this is one book you want to grab up. I won’t say more anymore of that matter for fear of giving it away! It also deals with broker relationships in for of family and friends. It also a love story that began ages ago!
I loved Brie and James, let’s not forget this author knows her Harry Potter and I enjoyed the fandom references all through the book.
I could give it 5 star because it took so long for me to be invested and I thought there should be more attention to the incident considering the author mentioned (me too) the movement.
It took me until about 40% of the way through before I could really get I to it! For any of you following the #metoo movement, this is one book you want to grab up. I won’t say more anymore of that matter for fear of giving it away! It also deals with broker relationships in for of family and friends. It also a love story that began ages ago!
I loved Brie and James, let’s not forget this author knows her Harry Potter and I enjoyed the fandom references all through the book.
I could give it 5 star because it took so long for me to be invested and I thought there should be more attention to the incident considering the author mentioned (me too) the movement.
February 7, 2020
2.5 ⭐️
This was my first time reading a book by this author.
It started out great and I really liked tension and banter between Brie and James.
Unfortunately, half way through I started to get bored. The storyline just took a turn for the worse, shifting focus to too much drama. I probably wouldn’t mind it as much if all that drama was eventually solved, but everything just got swept under a rag.
I was frustrated with high school drama between Maddy and Brie, and immature and childish ways of Brie avoiding James. I was expecting characters to be more adult since I got an impression they’re all in their mid/late twenties. Even the funny banter and countless Harry Potter references started to get on my nerves towards the end.
Really disappointed with how it turned out and I doubt I’ll be reading more from this author.
I received an advanced copy of this book from HiddenGems and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This was my first time reading a book by this author.
It started out great and I really liked tension and banter between Brie and James.
Unfortunately, half way through I started to get bored. The storyline just took a turn for the worse, shifting focus to too much drama. I probably wouldn’t mind it as much if all that drama was eventually solved, but everything just got swept under a rag.
I was frustrated with high school drama between Maddy and Brie, and immature and childish ways of Brie avoiding James. I was expecting characters to be more adult since I got an impression they’re all in their mid/late twenties. Even the funny banter and countless Harry Potter references started to get on my nerves towards the end.
Really disappointed with how it turned out and I doubt I’ll be reading more from this author.
I received an advanced copy of this book from HiddenGems and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
February 6, 2020
I was given an Arc copy of this book and this is the review
I found the storyline interesting enough
Brie makes friends at a young age has a best friend who later becomes her step sister as
Brie mum marries her dad making her siblings Brie’s step siblings however we don’t get this part of the story we kinda just jump to the middle so we see Brie caught out trying to get into her mum and step dads house by her step brother James whom she has secretly crushes on for years
We learn from this about bries best friend being maddi who she hasn’t spoke to in years since maddi stopped talking and possibly blamed Brie for her mum splitting up there family
It was an ok easy to read book kept me interested but nothing I’d say that would make me give this more than the 3* I’ve awarded
I found the storyline interesting enough
Brie makes friends at a young age has a best friend who later becomes her step sister as
Brie mum marries her dad making her siblings Brie’s step siblings however we don’t get this part of the story we kinda just jump to the middle so we see Brie caught out trying to get into her mum and step dads house by her step brother James whom she has secretly crushes on for years
We learn from this about bries best friend being maddi who she hasn’t spoke to in years since maddi stopped talking and possibly blamed Brie for her mum splitting up there family
It was an ok easy to read book kept me interested but nothing I’d say that would make me give this more than the 3* I’ve awarded
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