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Royal Bastards MC #1
Worth the Risk
Skylar…
When I was seventeen, I fell in love. It was incredible, earth shattering, but most of all, it was heartbreaking. He walked away without an explanation. Without saying goodbye.
He was simply gone.
But five years later, I walk into a room and he’s there. He had been only hours away from me all these years. I often imagined how a reunion between us would be. Would I run into his arms, kiss him and tell him I still love him?
No, I slugged him.
Jake…
I knew the day would come when I’d have to face Skylar. I made a decision years ago that I’ve always questioned. Always wondered if it was the right choice. I was torn between the woman lying in my bed and the best friend who was giving me the opportunity for a better life.
Skylar deserved better than me. I chose the Royal Bastards MC.
Now, she’s here, having been brought to the club for protection. Our reunion didn’t go as I imagined it would. There was no sweet embrace, no words even exchanged. She marched right up to me and punched me in the face.
I knew right then and there, I never stopped loving her. Thing is, the Royal Bastards have rules. I live and die by them. If I break them, I’m out. I’ll lose my patch and lose the family I have.
Is Skylar worth the risk?
When I was seventeen, I fell in love. It was incredible, earth shattering, but most of all, it was heartbreaking. He walked away without an explanation. Without saying goodbye.
He was simply gone.
But five years later, I walk into a room and he’s there. He had been only hours away from me all these years. I often imagined how a reunion between us would be. Would I run into his arms, kiss him and tell him I still love him?
No, I slugged him.
Jake…
I knew the day would come when I’d have to face Skylar. I made a decision years ago that I’ve always questioned. Always wondered if it was the right choice. I was torn between the woman lying in my bed and the best friend who was giving me the opportunity for a better life.
Skylar deserved better than me. I chose the Royal Bastards MC.
Now, she’s here, having been brought to the club for protection. Our reunion didn’t go as I imagined it would. There was no sweet embrace, no words even exchanged. She marched right up to me and punched me in the face.
I knew right then and there, I never stopped loving her. Thing is, the Royal Bastards have rules. I live and die by them. If I break them, I’m out. I’ll lose my patch and lose the family I have.
Is Skylar worth the risk?
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2020
148 people are currently reading
521 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Leslie
60 books689 followersI am a happily married mother of three (two boys and one girl). I live in a very small town in Alabama. Never lived anywhere else. I’ve been writing since my early twenties, but I couldn’t seem to finish a book. I’ve started self-publishing with the encouragement from my mom. Without her encouragement, I don’t think I would’ve done it. She always supported me and writing is something I’ve always enjoyed doing. As long as I enjoy it, I’ll continue to do it. I’ve learned already that I can’t please everyone. Not all reviews will be good, not all reviews will be bad. I’m the one that has to be happy with my work.
I get my inspiration from life experiences, movies, television, other authors, and music. Music is definitely a big influence on my writing. I can hear a song and it can inspire an entire book for me. I listen to it while I’m driving or before I start writing and it keeps me inspired. I like to put music in my books, even if it’s just one song the characters listen to or hear at some point. Sometimes music has gotten me through the really tough times in my life and that’s why it inspires me.
I like to write fast-paced, steamy romance reads. I like for my males to be alpha-males and my heroines to be strong, but both need to have one weakness- each other. I am an avid reader. I absolutely love romance books!
I get my inspiration from life experiences, movies, television, other authors, and music. Music is definitely a big influence on my writing. I can hear a song and it can inspire an entire book for me. I listen to it while I’m driving or before I start writing and it keeps me inspired. I like to put music in my books, even if it’s just one song the characters listen to or hear at some point. Sometimes music has gotten me through the really tough times in my life and that’s why it inspires me.
I like to write fast-paced, steamy romance reads. I like for my males to be alpha-males and my heroines to be strong, but both need to have one weakness- each other. I am an avid reader. I absolutely love romance books!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
August 7, 2025
This was just ok. The MC are unapologetic drug users and manwhores. The constant drug use like it's the norm wasn't a good time. Especially when the author wrote about it like it was no big deal. One character relapses, but there wasn't much emotion in getting her help. Maybe it's just me. The book felt too shallow and the chemistry between MMCs kinda forced because the author didn't really give us much to go on. The H Jake constantly chooses club over h. Until the end when h's brother doesn't give his blessing automatically cutting Jake from the club. Number one rule of the MC here is no dating of family members unless it's voted ok in church. But we find out the president of the club has already broken that rule. The guys in this MC are assholes as well. And not the ones I love to read about it. These guy's are just mean. When the h finds out about the president hooking up with a MC brother's sister that resulted in a child he grabs h by the neck then throws her to the ground. No big deal 🙄. Only she's pregnant. Though only a few weeks. Great job author. Do we get an apology? No. Does the h think that being treated like that was wrong? No again. She's cool with it apparently 🤷. Also, it was annoying the author had to have her male characters keep reminding us how bad to the bone they were. I'm bad. So bad. I fuck anything that moves, and snort lines off club pussies's backs. 🥴 If I have to be told how bad someone is I'm not going to buy it.
June 28, 2023
This book was fine. There weren’t many grammar or spelling errors. The story was predictable, but I’ve read a lot of romance books. It’s a second chance MC romance. Second chance isn’t really my favorite trope in general. I get frustrated when characters aren’t what I deem to be appropriately mad at situations. I know that’s a personal problem. It doesn’t make it any less true. I also think I have an issue with the alpha-bro shit. It comes across to me as immature. Like, these are supposedly adults. I’ve read more mature high school characters. “She’s been mine for a long time.” (Not a direct quote) No, dude. You left. You just fucking left. You were upset that she waited for you, but then upset that she didn’t wait long enough and slept with other people. You’re upset that she’s upset with how you made things, but she can’t do anything without you throwing an aggressive temper tantrum. Where are confident alpha characters? Why are supposed alpha-males always weak and annoying?
If you like second chance romances, if you like motorcycle clubs, if you like surprise babies, this book might be for you. It just wasn’t for me.
If you like second chance romances, if you like motorcycle clubs, if you like surprise babies, this book might be for you. It just wasn’t for me.
June 23, 2020
Intriguing, page turning, mind blowing, lovable from beginning to end. J.L Leslie once again wrote a book that had me gripped from beginning to end. The plot was amazing and so well written. The characters were intense, lovable, believable, and some amazing chemistry. You could feel what the characters were going through when you read this book. J.L knows how to pull you into a storyline and have you hanging on to see what is going to happen.
Skylar and Jake have one amazing night. But then he up and leaves with nothing said between them to go be with her brother somewhere. She doesn't hear from Jake or her brother until the death of their father. Skylar ends up being alone with loads of debts and possibly could be in danger so her brother who is involved with the Royal Bastards MC comes to get her and takes her back to where he lives. There is where she runs into Jake again who has the same feelings for her he did the day he left her. But the problem is now there is nothing that he can do about them and she hates him for what he did.
Will these two end up happy ever after? Hook, line and must read. This was one mind blowing amazing storyline from beginning to end. Not only does her brother walk out on her but the one man that she loves walks away from her and they both expect her to forgive and forget. But it isn't that easy for Skylar to just move on like that. But I do love Skylar. Her character was amazingly written. She is strong, stubborn and a fighter for what she wants. She is determined no matter what the rules are.
J.L wrote one amazing MC book with this one. I am hoping that we get much more from this series. Loved it. Highly recommend it.
Skylar and Jake have one amazing night. But then he up and leaves with nothing said between them to go be with her brother somewhere. She doesn't hear from Jake or her brother until the death of their father. Skylar ends up being alone with loads of debts and possibly could be in danger so her brother who is involved with the Royal Bastards MC comes to get her and takes her back to where he lives. There is where she runs into Jake again who has the same feelings for her he did the day he left her. But the problem is now there is nothing that he can do about them and she hates him for what he did.
Will these two end up happy ever after? Hook, line and must read. This was one mind blowing amazing storyline from beginning to end. Not only does her brother walk out on her but the one man that she loves walks away from her and they both expect her to forgive and forget. But it isn't that easy for Skylar to just move on like that. But I do love Skylar. Her character was amazingly written. She is strong, stubborn and a fighter for what she wants. She is determined no matter what the rules are.
J.L wrote one amazing MC book with this one. I am hoping that we get much more from this series. Loved it. Highly recommend it.
August 10, 2020
This is my first JL Leslie book and I must say I loved it. Hunter and Jake have been friends since childhood and Skylar always had a crush on her brothers friend. Jake never crossed the line until one night, he couldn’t keep his feelings inside anymore. The hardest thing he ever had to do was walk away from her. When Hunter needs Jake to help protect Skylar he knows he won’t be able to resist her, he still loves her after 5 years apart.
This book was well written and kept me turning pages, I can’t wait for more in this series. The little tidbits dropped about other members has my curiosity peaked!
This book was well written and kept me turning pages, I can’t wait for more in this series. The little tidbits dropped about other members has my curiosity peaked!
December 22, 2020
I really enjoyed this addition to the Royal Bastards MC. I need to check to see what other books this author has to offer.
I'm not even sure of what made it so good but I just wanted to keep flipping the pages and before you knew it, it was over...lol. Let's see... there is a cute little love story, Some heart break, some mystery and some suspense. Oh and the bad guy... never seen it coming. I figured the obvious choice wasn't it but the author got me on this one. Do think he needed to suffer longer. I hope this author have more in the RBMC. Would love to get Hunter's story.
I'm not even sure of what made it so good but I just wanted to keep flipping the pages and before you knew it, it was over...lol. Let's see... there is a cute little love story, Some heart break, some mystery and some suspense. Oh and the bad guy... never seen it coming. I figured the obvious choice wasn't it but the author got me on this one. Do think he needed to suffer longer. I hope this author have more in the RBMC. Would love to get Hunter's story.
June 24, 2020
Skylar grew up with her brother Hunter and his best friend Jake. She always had a crush on Jake and wanted him to see her as more than his best friend's little sister. Hunter leaves without any word to Skylar. She is stuck taking care of their father. Skylar and Jake have one night together and he leaves after getting a phone call. Years later at their father's funeral Hunter and Jake show up as part of the Royal Bastards MC. Skylar has to go live at their clubhouse to stay safe and until she can get an apartment. Jake has never forgotten Skylar and is still in love with her but they can't be together due to club rules. How will things turn out from the threat to Skylar and the relationship that she and Jake aren't supposed to have going on? An excellent read that I recommend.
July 5, 2020
The last person Skylar thought she would see at her father's funeral was her brother. The same brother who walked out of her life and never returned. To make things even worse is that Jake, the one man who she has loved forever is also with him. But the reunion is made even more troubling when Skylar finds out they have both been part of a MC. When the MC becomes her new "family" the spark that is still between Jake and Skylar is now something that is not allowed. Will Jake give up the "family" to stay with Sylar? Or will the danger that surrounds Skylar be the one thing that drives them even closer? Awesome characters and an edge of your seat storyline make this a book that the reader should not miss. This was my first book by J.L. Leslie and it will not be the last.
September 19, 2020
I love this author, and I normally love all things MC, but I just could not get into this book. It felt so choppy, and there was lot of telling versus showing. Plus the back and forth with Jake and Skylar wanting to rip each other's clothes off and then Jake putting a stop to it because of the 'code' he has with her brother got to be too much. I felt the chemistry between the two of them, but it felt like lust, not this overwhelming love like they should have been.
It wasn't a bad read per say, and I can see why a lot of readers have liked it, but it just wasn't for me.
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions.**
It wasn't a bad read per say, and I can see why a lot of readers have liked it, but it just wasn't for me.
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions.**
June 16, 2020
Loved everything about this book. From the writing to the characters. Oh let me tell you, you will fall in love with Jake and Skylar. They are both so full of heart. Just absolutely wonderful characters.
I'm hoping that the side characters get their own books. I very much want to hear their stories.
I read an advanced copy of this book.
I'm hoping that the side characters get their own books. I very much want to hear their stories.
I read an advanced copy of this book.
August 4, 2020
Real, raw emotional and brilliant; Worth the Risk says it all. In this beautiful story we get an emotional sister's best friend story, all the love and angst one could ask for all with in the dynamic world of the MC club. This story was an amazing read and a wonderful start to a new series. One of my favorite reads of tge last few weeks, this story is definitely worth reading. 5 stars.
August 4, 2020
Oh. My. Goodness!!!! I love Jake and Skylar! They are so fun and i love the tension they have with each other in the beginning!
July 14, 2020
What a great book. It was amazing and I couldn't put it down. It was on her best books
August 8, 2020
This was an excellent read. I thoroughly enjoyed it and cannot wait to read more books from this author.
October 20, 2020
Jake and Skylar
Amazing first book for this author in this series. Great characters, Amazing build, with hot chemistry. A must read can't wait to see what's next for this chapter.
Amazing first book for this author in this series. Great characters, Amazing build, with hot chemistry. A must read can't wait to see what's next for this chapter.
August 3, 2020
My Rating: 4 stars!
**ARC was generously provided in exchange for my honest review.**
Oooo-wee! Drama. Drama. Drama.
And I loved. every. damn. minute. of. it! 🤤🤭
Skylar has this steamy one-nighter with her brother’s best friend Jake (who she’s had a crush on since she first met the guy), only for both her brother Hunter and Jake to leave, never to return. No note. No goodbyes. Just radio silence.
Fast forward five years later to the present, where Skylar is unexpectedly thrown into a world of bikers, life and death situations, and losing what little independence she had. All because of secrets and lies that have been kept from her all these years.
This story starts you right off with intrigue, and immediately wanting to get to the bottom of where, why, and how Hunter and Jake could (and did) leave Skylar. Relatively well-paced story-telling all throughout, and told from dual perspectives. Despite the never ending drama, it was a cushy, enjoyable read that left me wanting the next installment really, really badly..
*exhales…*
WHERE’S THE NEXT BOOK, DAMMIT!?!?!
*Calm, blue ocean… Calm, blue ocean…*
As much as I enjoyed reading this, there was also so many things I wanted more of, and questions I need answered. The ending left me feeling like a lost puppy. Like dude, really?! 🙈 All I can say without giving any spoilers away is…. there better be a book two in this Royal Bastards MC: Birmingham Chapter. Because… ugh. Answers, people!! 🥺
Like so many good MC romances I’ve read, this one has a nice balance of MC and romance. We have a club, club members — which are our secondary characters we want and need more of! I already have a few from this club I want to see have their own books. Hunter being numero uno! ☝
There’s a seriously complicated relationship going on between Hunter, Skylar and Jake, that had me really grasping at needing to see more. These guys have history. Hunter and Jake have been friends since they were teenagers… and Skylar being Hunter’s younger sister, was someone who always wanted to hang with them.
I know this story revolves around Skylar and Jake’s romance, but I couldn’t help it whilst I was reading this book, Hunter had my attention a smidge more. He has sacrificed so much of his life into protecting his family and has not once given up despite having one problem after another popping up. I think he deserves so much credit, definitely a lot more love, and to be honest… I think deserves a whole lot better, especially considering how this entire story unraveled. Now. I don’t agree with all his actions.. *cough* especially with a certain woman *cough* .. but that’s why I desperately need a sequel! 🙏
But moving on, moving on.
Let’s cut to the chase! Get down to the nitty-gritty, shall we?
The story line itself was engaging. There’s a lot of different things happening but it was easy enough to follow. It didn’t feel overly done with too many issues going on at once, so that’s good. Oh, and there was something that did catch me off-guard, something I didn’t see coming — so points for unpredictability!
And secondary characters were definitely in attendance. There’s a good amount of club brothers, all with individual personality traits, with some a little more charming than others.. 😉😉
Although Skylar was uprooted from her life to be watched over by her brother and a half dozen or so MC members, it’s always cool to see another woman in the scene and befriending Skylar. I love me a good bromance and brotherhood, but I never wanna see a chick left to fend for herself… especially when there needs to be girl talk, giggles, and eye-candy to be drooled over, right??
There’s lots of potential for more stories to be told and for the world-building to expand if and when the author wants to.
I love the obvious chemistry the author has excellently written between Skylar and Jake, despite not having seen each other in years. There’s hate and regret there, but a very obvious heat still lingering between them that they can’t deny either. Always nice to see protectiveness, alpha-ism in MC romances (it’s always entertaining) and this one had it in bucket loads!
There’s some unresolved family issues between Skylar and Hunter and an obvious strain in their relationship from being apart for so many years with no contact. But their family dynamics is one of the things I liked about this book. Skylar can be the stereotypical bratty younger sister who doesn’t want to be bossed around by her big brother, yet stills sees him as someone to look up to. Hunter is fairly closed-off and keeps his true feelings to himself, but he’s very much an overprotective brother. There’s so much mystery surrounding him that I couldn’t get enough of the guy.
And let’s not forget Hunter and Jake’s friendship. Never been a fan of a chick getting in between guys’ brotherhood/ friendship.. even if she is family. Not gonna lie, I have mixed feelings about the things that were said and done, but it didn’t interfere with my liking of it overall so that’s a relief. Plus my need for the next book is strong, so… *shrugs* 🤗
As I said earlier, it ended with such a gaping hole of unanswered questions. Even if the Leslie, decides to continue with more books, I would still liked to have seen an epilogue included in this one. I know with the majority of the MC romance books I’ve come across, characters still make appearances in sequels and relatively give the reader an update of how life has been like since their book, but Worth The Risk seemed like Skylar and Jake’s story was far from being sorted out completely. I can accept a HFN (aka Happy For Now) ending but it didn’t quite feel that way with this book either. It felt a little more up in the air… like there’s still things to overcome first before they get their true HEA. You know what I mean?
Nevertheless, it’s a very convincing start to a potentially juicy MC series. There’s already a decent amount of world-building introduced with the Royal Bastards MC: Birmingham Chapter. An atmosphere between the brothers has been placed and intriguing enough to want to see develop further. There are possible future plot lines that I would look forward to see play out. A far as MC romances go, this one although contains violence, was a little less suspenseful than most, less graphic and in my opinion mild in the dark, gritty romance factor. It’ll be a good one to start off with for a first timer of MC books.
All in all, if you’re looking for your next MC romance, or like your alpha males tatted and with bikes, then you’ll find this one satisfying! Lots of feels. There’s a couple of moments you’ll find yourself giggling over, and times that make you genuinely sad for these characters, and then there’s times you wanna rip some heads off from frustration. But hey, all in a good book, am I right?! 😜
**Full review on my Blog: https://booksofthemuggleborn.wordpres...
**ARC was generously provided in exchange for my honest review.**
Oooo-wee! Drama. Drama. Drama.
And I loved. every. damn. minute. of. it! 🤤🤭
Skylar has this steamy one-nighter with her brother’s best friend Jake (who she’s had a crush on since she first met the guy), only for both her brother Hunter and Jake to leave, never to return. No note. No goodbyes. Just radio silence.
Fast forward five years later to the present, where Skylar is unexpectedly thrown into a world of bikers, life and death situations, and losing what little independence she had. All because of secrets and lies that have been kept from her all these years.
This story starts you right off with intrigue, and immediately wanting to get to the bottom of where, why, and how Hunter and Jake could (and did) leave Skylar. Relatively well-paced story-telling all throughout, and told from dual perspectives. Despite the never ending drama, it was a cushy, enjoyable read that left me wanting the next installment really, really badly..
*exhales…*
WHERE’S THE NEXT BOOK, DAMMIT!?!?!
*Calm, blue ocean… Calm, blue ocean…*
As much as I enjoyed reading this, there was also so many things I wanted more of, and questions I need answered. The ending left me feeling like a lost puppy. Like dude, really?! 🙈 All I can say without giving any spoilers away is…. there better be a book two in this Royal Bastards MC: Birmingham Chapter. Because… ugh. Answers, people!! 🥺
Like so many good MC romances I’ve read, this one has a nice balance of MC and romance. We have a club, club members — which are our secondary characters we want and need more of! I already have a few from this club I want to see have their own books. Hunter being numero uno! ☝
There’s a seriously complicated relationship going on between Hunter, Skylar and Jake, that had me really grasping at needing to see more. These guys have history. Hunter and Jake have been friends since they were teenagers… and Skylar being Hunter’s younger sister, was someone who always wanted to hang with them.
I know this story revolves around Skylar and Jake’s romance, but I couldn’t help it whilst I was reading this book, Hunter had my attention a smidge more. He has sacrificed so much of his life into protecting his family and has not once given up despite having one problem after another popping up. I think he deserves so much credit, definitely a lot more love, and to be honest… I think deserves a whole lot better, especially considering how this entire story unraveled. Now. I don’t agree with all his actions.. *cough* especially with a certain woman *cough* .. but that’s why I desperately need a sequel! 🙏
But moving on, moving on.
Let’s cut to the chase! Get down to the nitty-gritty, shall we?
The story line itself was engaging. There’s a lot of different things happening but it was easy enough to follow. It didn’t feel overly done with too many issues going on at once, so that’s good. Oh, and there was something that did catch me off-guard, something I didn’t see coming — so points for unpredictability!
And secondary characters were definitely in attendance. There’s a good amount of club brothers, all with individual personality traits, with some a little more charming than others.. 😉😉
Although Skylar was uprooted from her life to be watched over by her brother and a half dozen or so MC members, it’s always cool to see another woman in the scene and befriending Skylar. I love me a good bromance and brotherhood, but I never wanna see a chick left to fend for herself… especially when there needs to be girl talk, giggles, and eye-candy to be drooled over, right??
There’s lots of potential for more stories to be told and for the world-building to expand if and when the author wants to.
I love the obvious chemistry the author has excellently written between Skylar and Jake, despite not having seen each other in years. There’s hate and regret there, but a very obvious heat still lingering between them that they can’t deny either. Always nice to see protectiveness, alpha-ism in MC romances (it’s always entertaining) and this one had it in bucket loads!
There’s some unresolved family issues between Skylar and Hunter and an obvious strain in their relationship from being apart for so many years with no contact. But their family dynamics is one of the things I liked about this book. Skylar can be the stereotypical bratty younger sister who doesn’t want to be bossed around by her big brother, yet stills sees him as someone to look up to. Hunter is fairly closed-off and keeps his true feelings to himself, but he’s very much an overprotective brother. There’s so much mystery surrounding him that I couldn’t get enough of the guy.
And let’s not forget Hunter and Jake’s friendship. Never been a fan of a chick getting in between guys’ brotherhood/ friendship.. even if she is family. Not gonna lie, I have mixed feelings about the things that were said and done, but it didn’t interfere with my liking of it overall so that’s a relief. Plus my need for the next book is strong, so… *shrugs* 🤗
As I said earlier, it ended with such a gaping hole of unanswered questions. Even if the Leslie, decides to continue with more books, I would still liked to have seen an epilogue included in this one. I know with the majority of the MC romance books I’ve come across, characters still make appearances in sequels and relatively give the reader an update of how life has been like since their book, but Worth The Risk seemed like Skylar and Jake’s story was far from being sorted out completely. I can accept a HFN (aka Happy For Now) ending but it didn’t quite feel that way with this book either. It felt a little more up in the air… like there’s still things to overcome first before they get their true HEA. You know what I mean?
Nevertheless, it’s a very convincing start to a potentially juicy MC series. There’s already a decent amount of world-building introduced with the Royal Bastards MC: Birmingham Chapter. An atmosphere between the brothers has been placed and intriguing enough to want to see develop further. There are possible future plot lines that I would look forward to see play out. A far as MC romances go, this one although contains violence, was a little less suspenseful than most, less graphic and in my opinion mild in the dark, gritty romance factor. It’ll be a good one to start off with for a first timer of MC books.
All in all, if you’re looking for your next MC romance, or like your alpha males tatted and with bikes, then you’ll find this one satisfying! Lots of feels. There’s a couple of moments you’ll find yourself giggling over, and times that make you genuinely sad for these characters, and then there’s times you wanna rip some heads off from frustration. But hey, all in a good book, am I right?! 😜
**Full review on my Blog: https://booksofthemuggleborn.wordpres...
October 17, 2021
A classic forbidden tale of brother’s best friend falling for little sister.
Skylar has always had a crush on Jake and Jake has always wanted Skylar.
When Skylar’s brother steps out of town and never comes back, years pass by before these two finally release their feelings between each-other in a very physical way. Skylar gives her virginity to Jake. The moment it’s done, Jake gets a call.
And that call also leads to Jake stepping out on Skylar without a glance back.
More years pass before Skylar’s father dies leaving her in debt and losing her family home. She had no choice but to walk into her brothers new life. The motorcycle club life. The Royal Bastards of Birmingham, Alabama.
And Jake is their enforcer.
Jake gets greeted with a fist to the face.
What I enjoyed about this story is Skylar is an outspoken, sarcastic, and strong female. She’s not about to let it slide that that the two most important men in her life walked out without a single explanation.
And now they’re being secretive and telling her she can’t do anything without a member with her because she’s in danger. Skylar’s father died with a lot of debt on his hands and someone wants to collect.
Adding that to the charged energy between Skylar and Jake, these two can’t keep away for long. They’re meant to be together despite the strict rule in the club that says no member is allowed to fuck another members family. It brings drama they don’t want.
“I’m not a man with many weaknesses, but she’s my fucking kryptonite. She is the only person in this world who can destroy me.”
It’s a secret between them. Filling around when no one is looking. Until it isn’t. And now Jake’s patch is on the line that’s he’s worked hard for.
It’s a predictable story but it kept me engaged and reading in one day. It’s got an HEA with an opening for hopefully her brother, Hunter’s story too.
Skylar has always had a crush on Jake and Jake has always wanted Skylar.
When Skylar’s brother steps out of town and never comes back, years pass by before these two finally release their feelings between each-other in a very physical way. Skylar gives her virginity to Jake. The moment it’s done, Jake gets a call.
And that call also leads to Jake stepping out on Skylar without a glance back.
More years pass before Skylar’s father dies leaving her in debt and losing her family home. She had no choice but to walk into her brothers new life. The motorcycle club life. The Royal Bastards of Birmingham, Alabama.
And Jake is their enforcer.
Jake gets greeted with a fist to the face.
What I enjoyed about this story is Skylar is an outspoken, sarcastic, and strong female. She’s not about to let it slide that that the two most important men in her life walked out without a single explanation.
And now they’re being secretive and telling her she can’t do anything without a member with her because she’s in danger. Skylar’s father died with a lot of debt on his hands and someone wants to collect.
Adding that to the charged energy between Skylar and Jake, these two can’t keep away for long. They’re meant to be together despite the strict rule in the club that says no member is allowed to fuck another members family. It brings drama they don’t want.
“I’m not a man with many weaknesses, but she’s my fucking kryptonite. She is the only person in this world who can destroy me.”
It’s a secret between them. Filling around when no one is looking. Until it isn’t. And now Jake’s patch is on the line that’s he’s worked hard for.
It’s a predictable story but it kept me engaged and reading in one day. It’s got an HEA with an opening for hopefully her brother, Hunter’s story too.
December 9, 2022
I have never read a motorcycle romance before and after reading this I know that I need to read more. I loved this book. I loved how protective Jake is over Skylar. I also loved how strict they were with the rules of the motorcycle club. That was really interesting to see. Jake and Harper are so cute together. I just wish this book was longer and the conflict a bit more flushed out. This was such a great alpha male hurt her and you die type of book.
August 11, 2020
This is the first book I read in the Royal Bastards collection. J.L. Leslie is awesome! Skylar and Jake’s story has a little bit of everything second chance, brother’s best friend. I have to say it is different than the other MC books I have read. I also pride myself for being able to guess what is coming but J.L. was actually able to surprise me. I have not read her Ravens MC series yet but I am going to start it.
April 23, 2024
This was a good one!! It had just the right amount of spicey, and plot. I read this in a few hours i could not put it down!!! I must read the others!!! Would definitely recommend.
August 9, 2020
Worth the Risk
This is my first time reading a book by this author. I absolutely loved it. I am now a fan.
It had the perfect amount of grit, intrigue, suspense, and of course romance. I can’t get enough of the Royal Bastards MC.
This is my first time reading a book by this author. I absolutely loved it. I am now a fan.
It had the perfect amount of grit, intrigue, suspense, and of course romance. I can’t get enough of the Royal Bastards MC.
August 4, 2020
Holy moly!
A new to me author and a fantastic addition to this MC!! This had me from the first chapter when my heart broke for Skylar and I could not then the pages fast enough!
Jake can't believe that Skylar is back in his life and is determined not to let her go this time. But club rules, in more ways than one. And with danger following her, will it all be worth it?
Loved this!!!
A new to me author and a fantastic addition to this MC!! This had me from the first chapter when my heart broke for Skylar and I could not then the pages fast enough!
Jake can't believe that Skylar is back in his life and is determined not to let her go this time. But club rules, in more ways than one. And with danger following her, will it all be worth it?
Loved this!!!
August 6, 2020
Amazing!
I loved every minute of Jake and Skyler's story! It proves that sometimes when you risk losing something you love for another love, you can come out a winner. This is an absolute must read!
I loved every minute of Jake and Skyler's story! It proves that sometimes when you risk losing something you love for another love, you can come out a winner. This is an absolute must read!
August 6, 2020
I loved this story of Jake and Skylar. It has all of my favourite tropes within my favourite genre. MC..... 2nd chance....... brother's best friend..... What's not to like!?
Another great addition to the Royal Bastards collection.
Another great addition to the Royal Bastards collection.
August 7, 2020
Awesome
First time reading a book from this author, and have to say, not disappointed. Just hope there's a second book of this Chapter RBMC for Hunter and Allie.
First time reading a book from this author, and have to say, not disappointed. Just hope there's a second book of this Chapter RBMC for Hunter and Allie.
August 6, 2020
Good
This book was a good book. Good characters and plot. Some good twists and turns plus romance with thrown in. Overall an enjoyable book.
This book was a good book. Good characters and plot. Some good twists and turns plus romance with thrown in. Overall an enjoyable book.
June 18, 2020
Another great addition to the Royal Bastards MC by J.L. Leslie. Worth The Risk was an emotional story about Skylar and Jake who years ago had one night of passion and all of it was lost by one phone call from Skylar's brother Hunter when Jake left her with no explanation leaving her heartbroken. Years have passed as Skylar is struggling to hold two jobs to support her and her father never forgetting Jake. Now with the death of her father Skylar is alone and has lost her home with no money she is faced with trying to start over, when she sees her brother approaching her with a group of hard ass men telling her she is coming back with him to Birmingham AL. Skylar is a beautiful feisty woman who tells her brother just what she thinks of him for leaving with no word, until she learns that he left for protect as her father had a gambling debt that he needed to take care of in order to protect her. Now someone is still after her when it is learned her father gambled all the money Hunter had been sending with out her knowledge. Now she is heading towards the RBMC with Hunter to live. Jake has never forgotten Skylar and the way he left her with no explanation, but when he became a member of the RBMC, the one rule is he can never be with a brother's sister or he will lose his patch. The reunion he hoped for was bittersweet, when Skylar saw Jake her first instinct was to punch him, she was hurt and angry that he was so close to her and he never reached out to her. Now these two will have a rough start as Skylar under the protection of the club is given a job and a place to live, but the passion and desire Jake and Skylar are experiencing is going to be a battle that both of them will not be able to resist as the love they had all those years ago is rekindled and is fiery and heated as their love is all consuming. Can Jake give up the family he always wanted and risk everything to be with Skylar? And what is going to happen when Hunter finds out that Jake and Skylar are together? Will Jake lose his friendship with his brother forever? Danger is headed Skylar's way once again, when the club finds out that The Souls of Satan MC is still involved in all of this chaos, Hunter makes a deal to protect Skylar but he will be betrayed. Now they will learn that the person who was hired by the Souls of Satan MC known as the Collector still wants Skylar and it happens to be someone she thought was a friend. This story had so many twists and turns as secrets will be revealed, violence, betrayals as well as the sacrifice Jake made to be with the one woman he has always loved. When things take a turn, will the brothers of the RMBC vote Jake out or will Hunter give his consent so Jake will be able to be with Skylar and his keep his RMBC family? The Royal Bastards MC -Birmingham, AL # book 1 is a ride or die read! Can't wait for the next book in this gritty, thrilling series.
June 26, 2020
Worth the risk is another excellent MC romance from this author. The story covers several different tropes, forbidden, brother’s best friend and second chance, all which blend well together along with plenty of intrigue, danger and violence, not to mention those signature sexy times Ms Leslie writes so well. I did think the story took a minute to settle in and Skylar was more naive about the world and about basic information to do with an MC than I would’ve expected her to be, but once it found it’s groove, I couldn’t put it down.
After the death of her father, Skylar is whisked away by her brother and finds herself living in a clubhouse surrounded by a bunch of smelly bikers with questionable morals. One of those men is her brother’s best friend Jake, who ran out on her some years earlier. I loved the push and pull between Jake and Skylar. In their time apart, Skylar’s grown up to be a strong woman, feisty and one who knows her worth. She doesn’t let Jake get away with any nonsense and often goes toe to toe with him. I wanted to shake Jake in the beginning for the decisions he made and actions he took, but he eventually redeemed himself once I discovered more about him and his past. Because of Club rules, it was impossible for Jake and Skylar to openly declare their feelings for each other. Whilst it was hugely frustrating for them to have to hide the fact that given half the chance, they couldn’t keep their hands off each other, it did lead to lots of risk taking and several hot and steamy clandestine hookups whenever and wherever they could. Their chemistry is scorching but they soon realise their attraction is more than just physical and I wasn’t sure how they were going to find a way round this “no fraternising” problem.
I loved the loyalty and camaraderie between these club members and despite their gruffness and alpha posturing, you can tell there are genuine friendships amongst them. They’re not soft by any means and they may often step onto the wrong side of the law but they’re a team and stick together no matter what. The need to support one another and have each other’s backs soon becomes a necessity when a situation involving Skylar’s deceased father finds its way to their door and the story takes a more ominous turn.
An excellent first book for the Birmingham chapter of The Royal Bastards MC. I hope we get many more books in the series, especially as there are several very interesting supporting characters here too and I really want to see more of them in the future.
After the death of her father, Skylar is whisked away by her brother and finds herself living in a clubhouse surrounded by a bunch of smelly bikers with questionable morals. One of those men is her brother’s best friend Jake, who ran out on her some years earlier. I loved the push and pull between Jake and Skylar. In their time apart, Skylar’s grown up to be a strong woman, feisty and one who knows her worth. She doesn’t let Jake get away with any nonsense and often goes toe to toe with him. I wanted to shake Jake in the beginning for the decisions he made and actions he took, but he eventually redeemed himself once I discovered more about him and his past. Because of Club rules, it was impossible for Jake and Skylar to openly declare their feelings for each other. Whilst it was hugely frustrating for them to have to hide the fact that given half the chance, they couldn’t keep their hands off each other, it did lead to lots of risk taking and several hot and steamy clandestine hookups whenever and wherever they could. Their chemistry is scorching but they soon realise their attraction is more than just physical and I wasn’t sure how they were going to find a way round this “no fraternising” problem.
I loved the loyalty and camaraderie between these club members and despite their gruffness and alpha posturing, you can tell there are genuine friendships amongst them. They’re not soft by any means and they may often step onto the wrong side of the law but they’re a team and stick together no matter what. The need to support one another and have each other’s backs soon becomes a necessity when a situation involving Skylar’s deceased father finds its way to their door and the story takes a more ominous turn.
An excellent first book for the Birmingham chapter of The Royal Bastards MC. I hope we get many more books in the series, especially as there are several very interesting supporting characters here too and I really want to see more of them in the future.
September 14, 2020
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0
~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Skylar has always been in love with Jake. When he leaves her, she is broken and crushed. Years later, they are reunited but that doesn’t go well at all. These two dance around each other and club rules make is difficult for them both. Can he have her and his club? Excellent writing with a explosive storyline.
~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Skylar and Jake had one unforgettable night then he chose the club over her. When Skylar's world implodes and Hunter shows back up to be her big brother again she's not sure she wants him back in his life. The twists and turns of this story left me gasping and wanting more. These characters had so much depth that you want to read more and find out everyone's story. I definitely want more of this group of characters. LOVE LOVE LOVE THEM!!!
~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Skylar has always been in love with Jake. When he leaves her, she is broken and crushed. Years later, they are reunited but that doesn’t go well at all. These two dance around each other and club rules make is difficult for them both. Can he have her and his club? Excellent writing with a explosive storyline.
~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Skylar and Jake had one unforgettable night then he chose the club over her. When Skylar's world implodes and Hunter shows back up to be her big brother again she's not sure she wants him back in his life. The twists and turns of this story left me gasping and wanting more. These characters had so much depth that you want to read more and find out everyone's story. I definitely want more of this group of characters. LOVE LOVE LOVE THEM!!!
September 10, 2020
This is a page turner filled with suspense, grit and action. There's twists and turns with some surprises. Overall a great story.
July 31, 2020
* I received an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review *
The first book in the Birmingham Chapter of the Royal Bastards. This is for my book for not only the Royal Bastards but also for author J.L. Leslie. MC Romance is one of my favorite tropes, so I tend to be a bit pickier when it comes to these books.
I am also a fan of second chance romances so I was excited when I saw I would be getting two tropes I love. I wish Skylar and Jake had more of a relationship in the past. While I know it was monumental either way when he left, I think it would have made the betrayal bigger. While I was still upset for Skylar with how it went down, I just thought Hunter and her father’s betrayal was bigger and she seemed to forgive them almost automatically.
I still do not understand why Jake and Hunter felt the need to keep everything so secretive from the beginning. Skylar knew Jake’s home life was not good so if he wanted to get away because he was living on the street most days, I think she would have been selfish to be mad at that. I hate that they kept what her father did a secret from her but left her there to deal with it. Just did not make sense that they had to completely cut her off from contact from them both.
I cannot lie the chemistry between them was intense. You could feel the attraction from the moment they saw each other. Every time they were around each other I would be hoping they would finally act on it. When it finally happened...it was hot! I hated that Jake kept putting off talking to Hunter, but I do not think it mattered because no matter what he said he was not happy about it.
It was a good story, but it seemed a little too “nice” for me. Do not get me wrong there were violent situations, but something was just missing for me. I also wish we got to see them in a relationship out in the open. Overall, a good read but it just did not draw me in as I would have liked.
The first book in the Birmingham Chapter of the Royal Bastards. This is for my book for not only the Royal Bastards but also for author J.L. Leslie. MC Romance is one of my favorite tropes, so I tend to be a bit pickier when it comes to these books.
I am also a fan of second chance romances so I was excited when I saw I would be getting two tropes I love. I wish Skylar and Jake had more of a relationship in the past. While I know it was monumental either way when he left, I think it would have made the betrayal bigger. While I was still upset for Skylar with how it went down, I just thought Hunter and her father’s betrayal was bigger and she seemed to forgive them almost automatically.
I still do not understand why Jake and Hunter felt the need to keep everything so secretive from the beginning. Skylar knew Jake’s home life was not good so if he wanted to get away because he was living on the street most days, I think she would have been selfish to be mad at that. I hate that they kept what her father did a secret from her but left her there to deal with it. Just did not make sense that they had to completely cut her off from contact from them both.
I cannot lie the chemistry between them was intense. You could feel the attraction from the moment they saw each other. Every time they were around each other I would be hoping they would finally act on it. When it finally happened...it was hot! I hated that Jake kept putting off talking to Hunter, but I do not think it mattered because no matter what he said he was not happy about it.
It was a good story, but it seemed a little too “nice” for me. Do not get me wrong there were violent situations, but something was just missing for me. I also wish we got to see them in a relationship out in the open. Overall, a good read but it just did not draw me in as I would have liked.
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