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Joker's Sin #2
To Die For
Managing the bar at Joker’s Sin, a gay nightclub, is Max’s dream job. Where many seek fame or fortune, he’s living his best life, surrounded by family and friends. The only thing he doesn’t have is the guy to complete him.
Lane, AKA Sparkles, sees too much of the person he used to be when he looks at Max, and none of it is good. But the stubborn man won’t let up, and when Sparkles’s past threatens to unravel his whole life, it’s Max who steps in to save him.
Can these two opposites push past their differences to see just how right they are for each other? Will they get a chance before it all falls down around them? Or is their love one to die for?
(While it is book 2 in the Joker’s Sin Series, it can be read as a standalone)
Lane, AKA Sparkles, sees too much of the person he used to be when he looks at Max, and none of it is good. But the stubborn man won’t let up, and when Sparkles’s past threatens to unravel his whole life, it’s Max who steps in to save him.
Can these two opposites push past their differences to see just how right they are for each other? Will they get a chance before it all falls down around them? Or is their love one to die for?
(While it is book 2 in the Joker’s Sin Series, it can be read as a standalone)
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 22, 2020
108 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
About the author
Davidson King
56 books735 followersDavidson King, always had a hope that someday her daydreams would become real-life stories. As a child, you would often find her in her own world, thinking up the most insane situations. It may have taken her awhile, but she made her dream come true with her first published work, Snow Falling.
She managed to wrangle herself a husband who matched her crazy and they hatched three wonderful children.
If you were to ask her what gave her the courage to finally publish, she’d tell you it was her amazing family and friends. Support is vital in all things and when you’re afraid of your dreams, it will be your cheering section that will lift you up.
She managed to wrangle herself a husband who matched her crazy and they hatched three wonderful children.
If you were to ask her what gave her the courage to finally publish, she’d tell you it was her amazing family and friends. Support is vital in all things and when you’re afraid of your dreams, it will be your cheering section that will lift you up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
July 19, 2020
I'm loving this new series from Davidson King.
It always amazes me how authors come up with different plots for mystery/suspense series and how they manage to wrap everything which should make the reader go what?! and just make it work.
This one is a doozy, featuring our louche head barman Max, last seen getting yelled at for screwing everything that moves in book one of this series, and the delightfully named Sparkles, one of the club's patrons and superb dancer.
The suspense plot involves a secret in Sparkles' past and I liked how, as with book one, all the various members of the Joker's Sin crew all work together to protect their found family.
No spoilers here, suffice it to say I was more than happy with the payoff that the villain ended up with, served him right for being an utter dick!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
It always amazes me how authors come up with different plots for mystery/suspense series and how they manage to wrap everything which should make the reader go what?! and just make it work.
This one is a doozy, featuring our louche head barman Max, last seen getting yelled at for screwing everything that moves in book one of this series, and the delightfully named Sparkles, one of the club's patrons and superb dancer.
The suspense plot involves a secret in Sparkles' past and I liked how, as with book one, all the various members of the Joker's Sin crew all work together to protect their found family.
No spoilers here, suffice it to say I was more than happy with the payoff that the villain ended up with, served him right for being an utter dick!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
November 13, 2022
I really liked Sparkles...he taught kids to dance at his studio, he took care of his mother and he found Max who he knew was IT for him and Max felt the same. Everything was going good until Dorian, a mobster-like creep from his past showed up and threatened all the people that he loved...and then to top it off, he bought the lease on Sparkles' dance studio, now making him Sparkles' landlord. Luckly this guy had more money than brains so there was always hope even though things went from bad to worse until Sparkles and Max's friends came up with a plan. Sparkles and Max provided us a sweet, sometimes sappy in a good way, love story. Max works at Joker’s Sin. Sparkles visits the bar...a lot. Not because of Max though. Max thinks he's a bad bet on relationships. Their views of each other shift quickly over time and before they realize it, they are involved. You could sum the story up as a story about trust and life being what you're willing to make it.
December 5, 2024
I pictured Max and Sparkles' union to be explosive once they get all their walls down but this was actually a bit slow and sweet. Insults and banter doubling as a form of flirting was both funny and mean. LOL I kinda teared up a little when Max seemed hurt from all the insults Sparkles throw at him.every time... being the big softie that he is. And why am I not surprised he's surrounded by women in the family? 😂 I love Max. Sparkles I like enough. I think he's too acerbic but he and Max works so 🤷♀️.
I also had a moderate amount of hate and anger towards Sparkles' ex. Man, I wanted to strangle him every time he's in the scene.
I also had a moderate amount of hate and anger towards Sparkles' ex. Man, I wanted to strangle him every time he's in the scene.
July 25, 2020
✮4 Stars✮
August 25, 2020
4.5 stars
Looking forward to who is next??? Shane, Ciro or Ledger???
Looking forward to who is next??? Shane, Ciro or Ledger???
July 28, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
Davidson King’s follow up to My Whole World has released and To Die For is even better than its predecessor. Setting up once more in the town of Haven Hart at the local bar, Joker’s Sin, the story moves from the owner, Atlas, to his head mixologist/bartender, Max. Max loves his job. He enjoys coming up with new cocktails and meeting all the people who come into the bar and hooking up with some of those customers is icing on the cake. But the one guy who eludes him and seems immune to his charms is Sparkles, one of the patrons who often dances on the main stage. The guy is gorgeous, but has a pretty low opinion of Max if his sarcastic comments are anything to go by.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
Davidson King’s follow up to My Whole World has released and To Die For is even better than its predecessor. Setting up once more in the town of Haven Hart at the local bar, Joker’s Sin, the story moves from the owner, Atlas, to his head mixologist/bartender, Max. Max loves his job. He enjoys coming up with new cocktails and meeting all the people who come into the bar and hooking up with some of those customers is icing on the cake. But the one guy who eludes him and seems immune to his charms is Sparkles, one of the patrons who often dances on the main stage. The guy is gorgeous, but has a pretty low opinion of Max if his sarcastic comments are anything to go by.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
August 1, 2021
This one has a lot more relationship wooing than my whole world, as a trade off for some of the tension. I don't mind, I like seeing how Max and Sparkles get to love each other when Sparkles had little but disdain and attraction for Max to begin with, even if it was unwarranted.
I'm living in intrigue for Ciro's backstory, though. I haven't read the blurbs for the coming books yet, so I hope we get it.
I'm living in intrigue for Ciro's backstory, though. I haven't read the blurbs for the coming books yet, so I hope we get it.
January 8, 2021
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2021/01/08/...
Rating: 3 Stars – not exactly setting my world on fire but I liked it
Rating: 3 Stars – not exactly setting my world on fire but I liked it
June 13, 2021
Sparkles and Max create a sweet sappy love story with bad guys. It’s Haven Hart, there are always bad guys!
Max works at Joker’s Sin. Sparkles visits the bar, a lot. Not because of Max though. Max is a bad bet on relationships. Their views of each other shift over time and before they realize it they are involved.
Enter the big bad, who in reality (it’s Haven Hart) is just a minnow in a big pond.
I’ve come to feel that Haven Hart is a character in its own stories. The town has a multitude of bad guys that always do what’s right, even if it’s wrong.
Tank alone is worth the price of admission, throw in Max’s family and this was a really sweet story about trust and the life you can make with it.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Max works at Joker’s Sin. Sparkles visits the bar, a lot. Not because of Max though. Max is a bad bet on relationships. Their views of each other shift over time and before they realize it they are involved.
Enter the big bad, who in reality (it’s Haven Hart) is just a minnow in a big pond.
I’ve come to feel that Haven Hart is a character in its own stories. The town has a multitude of bad guys that always do what’s right, even if it’s wrong.
Tank alone is worth the price of admission, throw in Max’s family and this was a really sweet story about trust and the life you can make with it.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
July 28, 2020
4.5 stars. A great start as Max did his bartending managerial work and Lane operated his dance studio. But when the sight of someone flashing big monies around Max gets nervous. When things seem too good to be true, troubles are afoot. Oh evil walks into town that's who and he targets poor Lane. Threats, violence, blackmailing is just the tip of the berg. Beautiful hot sexy scenes with Max and Lane but Lane keeps a secret hidden. The book progresses and a few dramas happen but it all ends with a HEA. Hmm I wasn't sure what to think about what happens near the ending scenes. A perfectly titled book. Triggers include violence scenes, attempted rape, murder.
Max lived with his family and working at his dream job at Jokers Sin a gay bar at night. He had a crush on Sparkles from the club buy as yet he kept getting knocked back.
Lane wanted Max from afar but if he went there he knew he'd be in over his head and maybe his heart.
Max lived with his family and working at his dream job at Jokers Sin a gay bar at night. He had a crush on Sparkles from the club buy as yet he kept getting knocked back.
Lane wanted Max from afar but if he went there he knew he'd be in over his head and maybe his heart.
August 3, 2020
This is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone. I loved it even more than the first one.
I loved Max and Sparkles together. Their banter is hilarious and the chemistry is off the charts. I've been waiting for Max's story since book 1 and it doesn't disappoint in the least. The suspense/ mystery plot is based on Sparkles' past and I don't want to spoil anything. Just going to say that the ending was so satisfying!
We meet some new characters and a few old ones. But Tank, Sparkles' teacup poodle, completely stole my heart! He's so adorable. If you are looking for a book filled with action, intrigue drama and romance, definitely pick this up. I'm really looking forward to Ledger's book!
*ARC provided by the author via Vibrant Promotions in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
I loved Max and Sparkles together. Their banter is hilarious and the chemistry is off the charts. I've been waiting for Max's story since book 1 and it doesn't disappoint in the least. The suspense/ mystery plot is based on Sparkles' past and I don't want to spoil anything. Just going to say that the ending was so satisfying!
We meet some new characters and a few old ones. But Tank, Sparkles' teacup poodle, completely stole my heart! He's so adorable. If you are looking for a book filled with action, intrigue drama and romance, definitely pick this up. I'm really looking forward to Ledger's book!
*ARC provided by the author via Vibrant Promotions in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
May 6, 2022
Definitely better than the first one, I enjoyed the story of Max and Sparkles.
Sparkles had a secret that came to find him in his now peaceful life, but thanks to Max and all the people working at Joker's Sin, he manages to gain control of what was happening and find love and family.
I can't wait to read about the next couple.
Sparkles had a secret that came to find him in his now peaceful life, but thanks to Max and all the people working at Joker's Sin, he manages to gain control of what was happening and find love and family.
I can't wait to read about the next couple.
July 24, 2020
To start with, I must say that there isn't a book that Davidson King has written that I do not love. To Die For is no exception! I was looking forward to this after reading book 1, as I knew Sparkles was going to be a wonderful character to read about. I wasn't wrong. I loved seeing the relationship develop between Max and Sparkles, and when they finally come together, "sparks" fly! :)
There was a big baddie from Sparkles past who wanted to make life miserable for him, and Max was there, along with others from Joker's Sin, to help him out. I really enjoyed the bits and pieces of the other characters that we get, and I'm now really curious about Ciro am anxiously awaiting Ledger and Shane's book.
I found the heat in this book to be just right, with wonderful main characters, a lovely array of side characters (especially Ma!), and a satisfying conclusion. I highly recommend everyone check it out!
There was a big baddie from Sparkles past who wanted to make life miserable for him, and Max was there, along with others from Joker's Sin, to help him out. I really enjoyed the bits and pieces of the other characters that we get, and I'm now really curious about Ciro am anxiously awaiting Ledger and Shane's book.
I found the heat in this book to be just right, with wonderful main characters, a lovely array of side characters (especially Ma!), and a satisfying conclusion. I highly recommend everyone check it out!
July 20, 2020
Coffee, cake & stars
Each time I visit Haven Hart there’s always something new to learn and I’m an avid student. I need a Tank in my life; Max’s mom is a little scary and devious (I really like her and his family); and if dinner is the gateway date, cake and coffee are the keys to finding your happily ever after.
“But the reason I like you so much isn’t because you’re who I want you to be, it’s because you’re who you want to be.” I adore Sparkles and his sass. I want to be him when I grow up, especially if it brings Max in my life, who’s fiercely protective and loves just as hard. They’re both so much more than they show and together they’re a fire I’d happily be burned by. I fell fast and hard for them. In fact, all of the Joker’s Sin family are addictive. One taste and you’ll be hooked for life.
Each time I visit Haven Hart there’s always something new to learn and I’m an avid student. I need a Tank in my life; Max’s mom is a little scary and devious (I really like her and his family); and if dinner is the gateway date, cake and coffee are the keys to finding your happily ever after.
“But the reason I like you so much isn’t because you’re who I want you to be, it’s because you’re who you want to be.” I adore Sparkles and his sass. I want to be him when I grow up, especially if it brings Max in my life, who’s fiercely protective and loves just as hard. They’re both so much more than they show and together they’re a fire I’d happily be burned by. I fell fast and hard for them. In fact, all of the Joker’s Sin family are addictive. One taste and you’ll be hooked for life.
July 20, 2020
Ahhh.....there's nothing like the wonderful buzz of a book hangover that you get when you have read a terrific story.
To Die For is a great addition to the Joker's Sin series. There's a great lesson here of not judging someone before getting to know them. Sparkles was sure he knew just what kind of man Max was. He had him pegged as a one and done kind of guy with no real depth to him. When circumstances throw them together he gets a more complete picture of who Max is. Max is loyal to a fault. He is all about family and friends. Sparkles hasn't had anyone in his corner before and even though he is strong and capable he is also lonely. He has triumphed through tough and painful times and is creating a life for himself that he had always dreamed of. The name Sparkles fits this man to a T!
These two strike sparks off each other that can ignite at any given moment.
When trouble from Sparkles' past finds him Max is there to slay his dragons. Along with Tank the Mighty these guys form a bond and connection that will see them through anything! I devoured this book in one afternoon and now I will eagerly await the next book in this spectacular series!
To Die For is a great addition to the Joker's Sin series. There's a great lesson here of not judging someone before getting to know them. Sparkles was sure he knew just what kind of man Max was. He had him pegged as a one and done kind of guy with no real depth to him. When circumstances throw them together he gets a more complete picture of who Max is. Max is loyal to a fault. He is all about family and friends. Sparkles hasn't had anyone in his corner before and even though he is strong and capable he is also lonely. He has triumphed through tough and painful times and is creating a life for himself that he had always dreamed of. The name Sparkles fits this man to a T!
These two strike sparks off each other that can ignite at any given moment.
When trouble from Sparkles' past finds him Max is there to slay his dragons. Along with Tank the Mighty these guys form a bond and connection that will see them through anything! I devoured this book in one afternoon and now I will eagerly await the next book in this spectacular series!
July 23, 2020
In the time they've known each other, Max and Lane ( Sparkles) have developed their own brand of flirting, made of cheesy pick up lines and insults. They were incredibly entertaining and I adored the way they treated one another every occasion they shared the same space. And, I absolutely loved them after they started spending more time together and realized they had formed misconceptions of who the other truly was and what hangups motivated their previous actions.
But, Lane had secrets and a past that came back to haunt him. For a while I feared that whatever Max and Lane were building together was going to be ruined, and I liked immensely how their romance was woven with the suspense.
One thing I've learned after reading this author's books is to prepare myself for holding my breath up until the very end, and To Die For was no different. I didn't know what to expect, whether or not Max and Lane would have a future together, and the waiting was a thrilling experience.
I loved it!
But, Lane had secrets and a past that came back to haunt him. For a while I feared that whatever Max and Lane were building together was going to be ruined, and I liked immensely how their romance was woven with the suspense.
One thing I've learned after reading this author's books is to prepare myself for holding my breath up until the very end, and To Die For was no different. I didn't know what to expect, whether or not Max and Lane would have a future together, and the waiting was a thrilling experience.
I loved it!
May 30, 2025
4 stars. Audiobook. Story is a nice romance set mostly in a night club. Hottie-gets-all-the-numbers bartender and elusive dance instructor with secrets. Nice protective vibes, turns dark toward the end when uncouth businessmen don’t like being told no.
Audio may not be for everyone, dual narration, very different voices, try a sample before buying to make sure you like how the characters are voiced.
HEA, dance club, dance instructor, bartender, m/m, corrupt town.
Audio may not be for everyone, dual narration, very different voices, try a sample before buying to make sure you like how the characters are voiced.
HEA, dance club, dance instructor, bartender, m/m, corrupt town.
December 10, 2021
I was a little disappointed with this one. I'm not sure if I'll read anymore of the series. It was my first by this author so I really should try at least one more book. Maybe from a different series?
February 16, 2021
Sparkles really irritated me . I loved Max though.
July 26, 2020
I received an ARC of this title and loved it.
Max is such a great guy. When we were first introduced to him in the previous book, I didn't think he was going to amount to much. He seemed like such a manwhore, but we got to truly know him in this book. I loved that even though he is grown he stayed at him home because of his mother. Seeing such a strong bond between him and his family was great. It showcased that he was more than just a flirt. We got to see more of his character in his attempts to woo Sparkles. Which was go freaking cute. I didn't know a guy could be such a sweetie and shy.
Sparkles is a firecracker. We sorta got that feeling in the last book, but he really showcased it here. Watching him verbal spare with Max was always a treat. I was really shocked at Sparkles' backstory. I knew he had to have one but the one we were given was a shocker. I will say that the treatment he received during those times helped shape him into the strong, fiery man we see today. Him finally breaking down and giving Max a chance to prove he wanted more than a fling was great to see.
All in all, this was a really fun book to read. The drama wasn't over the top and we get to see more of the inner workings of Joker's Sin.
Max is such a great guy. When we were first introduced to him in the previous book, I didn't think he was going to amount to much. He seemed like such a manwhore, but we got to truly know him in this book. I loved that even though he is grown he stayed at him home because of his mother. Seeing such a strong bond between him and his family was great. It showcased that he was more than just a flirt. We got to see more of his character in his attempts to woo Sparkles. Which was go freaking cute. I didn't know a guy could be such a sweetie and shy.
Sparkles is a firecracker. We sorta got that feeling in the last book, but he really showcased it here. Watching him verbal spare with Max was always a treat. I was really shocked at Sparkles' backstory. I knew he had to have one but the one we were given was a shocker. I will say that the treatment he received during those times helped shape him into the strong, fiery man we see today. Him finally breaking down and giving Max a chance to prove he wanted more than a fling was great to see.
All in all, this was a really fun book to read. The drama wasn't over the top and we get to see more of the inner workings of Joker's Sin.
July 18, 2020
When your past haunts your present.
Oh boy, did Max and Lane (Sparkles) have a rough road to their HEA when drama from Lane’s past arrives in Haven Hart.
We do get to see that there’s a lot more to Max than just being the bar manager/player at Joker’s Sin and through all the troubles, he’s a much needed rock for Lane. These two wonderful men have always snarked at each other and it was great watching that dynamic evolve into a romance with sweet and tender moments combined with high heat moments.
The suspenseful plot line and well developed characters totally hooked me in and it became a one sitting read.
The Joker’s Sin family all had their parts to play and I’m really looking forward to the next in the series. This can be read as a standalone but I’d encourage you to read book 1 for a fuller experience of this universe.
Oh boy, did Max and Lane (Sparkles) have a rough road to their HEA when drama from Lane’s past arrives in Haven Hart.
We do get to see that there’s a lot more to Max than just being the bar manager/player at Joker’s Sin and through all the troubles, he’s a much needed rock for Lane. These two wonderful men have always snarked at each other and it was great watching that dynamic evolve into a romance with sweet and tender moments combined with high heat moments.
The suspenseful plot line and well developed characters totally hooked me in and it became a one sitting read.
The Joker’s Sin family all had their parts to play and I’m really looking forward to the next in the series. This can be read as a standalone but I’d encourage you to read book 1 for a fuller experience of this universe.
August 3, 2020
This was amazing and fun....dark and sexy...fast paced and holds me to the story and characters and kept me curious and loving it. So much fun!
August 6, 2020
Once again Davidson King has stomped on my heart, kicked me in the gut, Mama Bear Hugged me into submission, and all around bedazzled the beejeesus out of me.
From Max deciding whether or not to apply a little self-love before his sister walks in to the satisfying ending to Sparkles' past hiccup(and yes it's far, far worse and heartwrenching than a hiccup but I don't want to give any details away so let's go with "past hiccup"), To Die For is certainly worthy of the Joker's Sin tag, the Haven Hart Universe, and the storytelling stamp of the incredibly talented Davidson King. Just Yummy!
When we met Max in book 1, My Whole World, I'll admit I was less than impressed with him but I also knew there was more to the man than bedding anyone and everyone on two legs so I held back any permanent judgement. Boy was I right to do so. So much more to him. Again, I won't give anything away but just know that if you are familiar with Miss King's work than you know nothing is as it seems at first glance but getting to watch what makes her characters tick is an absolute dream.
As for Sparkles(Or Lane as he is known in his day job)? He is the kind of character you really need to experience for yourself to grasp. He too is more than what many see: club patron and dancer, I don't like to label people too much but I will say he has this aura around him that make some see only the outside and not the inside, see his moves but not what makes him move. I said "aura" well that may seem a bit flowery, but it certainly understandable why they call him Sparkles, when he's dancing he literally sparkles, he shines, because that is where he can "be free". Will he let people see(and yes by people I mainly mean Max) that aura, that sparkle goes far deeper than appearance and moves, it's just part of who he is.
Together Max and Sparkles have the potential to exude brilliance but will they live up to what each thinks the other needs? You know the answer to that: read to find out. You won't regret it. Do I want to say they evolve before my eyes once they found "the one"? No, but they certainly grow, they seem to find their spot in this world, not because they had to have someone to make themselves special or complete but because once they find each other there's this desire within to be what the other needs and in turn it gives them a focus to see other things around them and inside themselves clearer too.
Once again, we see that Joker's Sin is not just a place of employment, a club to let go, it is a family and as it should be, family looks out for each other. As in My Whole World, this family comes together to help Max and Sparkles with the previously mentioned "hiccup", to keep them safe. I don't do spoilers and I don't really think I am spoiling anything with these vague mentions because Davidson King always has heart, a HEA in her stories but it's the journey that is the where it all comes together and I'll never spoil that.
Is To Die For as brilliant as My Whole World? Definitely. Did I love Max and Sparkles as much as Atlas and Toby? Probably not quite. Is the difference even worth rating? Hell no. The men who work and play at Joker's Sin will grab you until you can't let go, they are characters that remain long after you've swiped/turned that last page. If you haven't read Davidson King before, don't wait another minute! She is definitely on my Top 10 All-Time Favorite Authors list, if there was an All Star game for authors she would be a shoe-in. Truth is(and I know I've said it before but I just can't stress this point enough) she is a genuine storyteller. What is the difference you ask? For me, an author spins a good yarn, entertains you, makes you see other aspects of life but a storyteller will create a world you not only read but you find yourself living within the covers of the book, you become part of the story, your senses come alive and in the case of her Joker's Sin series, you are sitting at the next table, you are standing on the street corner waiting for the light to change so you aren't late to get in the doors, so much so that there is a level of grief when you reach the last page and have to say goodbye(for now) to the people and the places.
From Max deciding whether or not to apply a little self-love before his sister walks in to the satisfying ending to Sparkles' past hiccup(and yes it's far, far worse and heartwrenching than a hiccup but I don't want to give any details away so let's go with "past hiccup"), To Die For is certainly worthy of the Joker's Sin tag, the Haven Hart Universe, and the storytelling stamp of the incredibly talented Davidson King. Just Yummy!
When we met Max in book 1, My Whole World, I'll admit I was less than impressed with him but I also knew there was more to the man than bedding anyone and everyone on two legs so I held back any permanent judgement. Boy was I right to do so. So much more to him. Again, I won't give anything away but just know that if you are familiar with Miss King's work than you know nothing is as it seems at first glance but getting to watch what makes her characters tick is an absolute dream.
As for Sparkles(Or Lane as he is known in his day job)? He is the kind of character you really need to experience for yourself to grasp. He too is more than what many see: club patron and dancer, I don't like to label people too much but I will say he has this aura around him that make some see only the outside and not the inside, see his moves but not what makes him move. I said "aura" well that may seem a bit flowery, but it certainly understandable why they call him Sparkles, when he's dancing he literally sparkles, he shines, because that is where he can "be free". Will he let people see(and yes by people I mainly mean Max) that aura, that sparkle goes far deeper than appearance and moves, it's just part of who he is.
Together Max and Sparkles have the potential to exude brilliance but will they live up to what each thinks the other needs? You know the answer to that: read to find out. You won't regret it. Do I want to say they evolve before my eyes once they found "the one"? No, but they certainly grow, they seem to find their spot in this world, not because they had to have someone to make themselves special or complete but because once they find each other there's this desire within to be what the other needs and in turn it gives them a focus to see other things around them and inside themselves clearer too.
Once again, we see that Joker's Sin is not just a place of employment, a club to let go, it is a family and as it should be, family looks out for each other. As in My Whole World, this family comes together to help Max and Sparkles with the previously mentioned "hiccup", to keep them safe. I don't do spoilers and I don't really think I am spoiling anything with these vague mentions because Davidson King always has heart, a HEA in her stories but it's the journey that is the where it all comes together and I'll never spoil that.
Is To Die For as brilliant as My Whole World? Definitely. Did I love Max and Sparkles as much as Atlas and Toby? Probably not quite. Is the difference even worth rating? Hell no. The men who work and play at Joker's Sin will grab you until you can't let go, they are characters that remain long after you've swiped/turned that last page. If you haven't read Davidson King before, don't wait another minute! She is definitely on my Top 10 All-Time Favorite Authors list, if there was an All Star game for authors she would be a shoe-in. Truth is(and I know I've said it before but I just can't stress this point enough) she is a genuine storyteller. What is the difference you ask? For me, an author spins a good yarn, entertains you, makes you see other aspects of life but a storyteller will create a world you not only read but you find yourself living within the covers of the book, you become part of the story, your senses come alive and in the case of her Joker's Sin series, you are sitting at the next table, you are standing on the street corner waiting for the light to change so you aren't late to get in the doors, so much so that there is a level of grief when you reach the last page and have to say goodbye(for now) to the people and the places.
July 23, 2020
Meredith King is one of my all time favorite Authors, everything she writes is pure gold in my eyes. Every story is unique, intriguing, suspenseful, thrilling and always packs a punch. Every single character, every single time... I always fall head over heals for ... and To Die For ticks all my boxes and then some . From reading My Whole World (book 1) I fell in love with Max and was waiting patiently for his story. Let me tell you!! I got everything I wished for and so much more. That man had me swooning ... HARD!!! I knew that once he and Lane aka ‘Sparkles’ got together thunder, lightning and and a whole lot of sparks were going to fly, and we got it . Oh man!!! These two together were just yummy, I couldn’t stop turning the pages , I was enthralled with finding out how their love story was going to play out.
We got a rocky start with a beautiful ending that made me smile . These characters in this series are some of my favorites , the family they are, the way they always have each other’s backs is what draws me in and leaves me always wanting more .
I cannot wait to get Ciro’s story. That man has scars and a past that I’m dying to find out what makes him he man he is . It’s going to leave my heart aching but I want nothing more than to see him get his HEA .
This story is a must read and I highly recommend it (as I do all of Davidson Kings stories) definitely deserves ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We got a rocky start with a beautiful ending that made me smile . These characters in this series are some of my favorites , the family they are, the way they always have each other’s backs is what draws me in and leaves me always wanting more .
I cannot wait to get Ciro’s story. That man has scars and a past that I’m dying to find out what makes him he man he is . It’s going to leave my heart aching but I want nothing more than to see him get his HEA .
This story is a must read and I highly recommend it (as I do all of Davidson Kings stories) definitely deserves ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 1, 2021
3,5*
PLEASE READ MY RATING SYSTEM!!!
To my ratings:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-
Away-book like
‘Jesse's Smile' or ‚Joey’ from Angelique Jurd,
‘Save the kids' series from EM Leya,
‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or
'Liberty' from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a
WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises
(like most of Andrew Grey books and
Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few
times a year (most romances where you can
enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader,
maybe 2-3 times a year. It’s like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-
reader (i wouldn't recommend it heartily, but
it was ok). It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too
many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an
absolut NO-GO). It's like failure in the whole
line, dismissed, repeat the class
PLEASE READ MY RATING SYSTEM!!!
To my ratings:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-
Away-book like
‘Jesse's Smile' or ‚Joey’ from Angelique Jurd,
‘Save the kids' series from EM Leya,
‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or
'Liberty' from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a
WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises
(like most of Andrew Grey books and
Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few
times a year (most romances where you can
enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader,
maybe 2-3 times a year. It’s like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-
reader (i wouldn't recommend it heartily, but
it was ok). It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too
many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an
absolut NO-GO). It's like failure in the whole
line, dismissed, repeat the class
July 22, 2020
Max and Lane aka Sparkles, story will keep you page turning for sure. This is book 2 in the Joker's Sin series you can read this as a stand alone but you really are missing out if you do.
The plot line of this story really caught my attention from the start, Max is known to be a player but yet something about Sparkles has captured his attention, Sparkles sees Max in a jaded light but yet as they carefully do the flirting dance with each other all bets are off. The banter and chemistry these two have is off the charts.
When Lanes past comes back to haunt him Max will stop at nothing to help him even if it means losing him. The story line is crafted so well it's easy to forget this is not real, we see some old friends and meet some new ones that add to the laughter of this story. The heartbreak that is felt in their story was written with truth but also compassion. I loved how not only Max and Lane get their HEA but also the set up for the coming books. I can't wait for book 3! Hot factor off the charts check, Mystery and Action packed Check, Non-Stop Page turner Check.
The plot line of this story really caught my attention from the start, Max is known to be a player but yet something about Sparkles has captured his attention, Sparkles sees Max in a jaded light but yet as they carefully do the flirting dance with each other all bets are off. The banter and chemistry these two have is off the charts.
When Lanes past comes back to haunt him Max will stop at nothing to help him even if it means losing him. The story line is crafted so well it's easy to forget this is not real, we see some old friends and meet some new ones that add to the laughter of this story. The heartbreak that is felt in their story was written with truth but also compassion. I loved how not only Max and Lane get their HEA but also the set up for the coming books. I can't wait for book 3! Hot factor off the charts check, Mystery and Action packed Check, Non-Stop Page turner Check.
July 23, 2020
Max, the head bartender in Joker's Sin, is rumored to be a player. He's set his eyes on Sparkles, a regular of the establishment, but Sparkles evades his overtures and keeps his distance.
Welcome to Haven Hart, a world where nothing is as it seems and the balance of the city is measured by who's the bigger fish in the pond. This can be read as a standalone, but I promise you, you cannot go wrong to read the previous series of Haven Hart (7 books) and the first in the Joker's Sin series to understand the dynamic of this world. I love these books and I do have my favourite characters. That doesn't stop me to dive into the stories of those that have been mentioned before, as they are worthy to have their story told as well.
It is quite hard to write more about Max and Sparkles,who goes by Lane outside the night club, without spoiling it, so jump right in to a tale of exes and love and intrigue and friendship. Be like Max, who goes from physical attraction to getting to know Lane better to falling in love. Well, that's not a spoiler, it's a romance. I couldn't put it down, and I hope neither can you.
****I was lucky to get my grabby little fingers on this ARC****
Welcome to Haven Hart, a world where nothing is as it seems and the balance of the city is measured by who's the bigger fish in the pond. This can be read as a standalone, but I promise you, you cannot go wrong to read the previous series of Haven Hart (7 books) and the first in the Joker's Sin series to understand the dynamic of this world. I love these books and I do have my favourite characters. That doesn't stop me to dive into the stories of those that have been mentioned before, as they are worthy to have their story told as well.
It is quite hard to write more about Max and Sparkles,who goes by Lane outside the night club, without spoiling it, so jump right in to a tale of exes and love and intrigue and friendship. Be like Max, who goes from physical attraction to getting to know Lane better to falling in love. Well, that's not a spoiler, it's a romance. I couldn't put it down, and I hope neither can you.
****I was lucky to get my grabby little fingers on this ARC****
July 30, 2020
Max works for Atlas at Joker’s Sin, a famous club. He’s in charge of day-to-day operations on the floor, working with a few other bartenders and some security personnel. He loves his job, it allows him to help out with his family.
Lane owns a dance studio, Ashley’s Haven, but whenever he goes out to Joker’s Sin, he becomes Sparkles, an alter ego of sorts, someone who leaves his troubles at the door and just has a good time. He hasn’t had an easy childhood. He had to do some things in order to take care of himself and his mother.
But Lane’s past came back with a vengeance, and he has to stop it before it destroys his newfound life in Haven’s Hart. Although he didn’t want to ask for help, it was given freely and with so much love from friends he had made in this town.
A story about second chances in life, acceptance, love and family, blood and chosen. It reminds us that there is a thin line between doing what is right and necessary, and sometimes justifying it for personal protection to you and your loved ones.
I am loving these novels as a spin-off from the Haven Hart series.
Lane owns a dance studio, Ashley’s Haven, but whenever he goes out to Joker’s Sin, he becomes Sparkles, an alter ego of sorts, someone who leaves his troubles at the door and just has a good time. He hasn’t had an easy childhood. He had to do some things in order to take care of himself and his mother.
But Lane’s past came back with a vengeance, and he has to stop it before it destroys his newfound life in Haven’s Hart. Although he didn’t want to ask for help, it was given freely and with so much love from friends he had made in this town.
A story about second chances in life, acceptance, love and family, blood and chosen. It reminds us that there is a thin line between doing what is right and necessary, and sometimes justifying it for personal protection to you and your loved ones.
I am loving these novels as a spin-off from the Haven Hart series.
July 19, 2020
With every new Haven’s Hart world book I fall more in love that town. Every character understands how the city works and I just love when an outsider comes in and gets schooled. The characters are family. The town is family. And you don’t mess with family.
Max and Sparkle are both introduced in the first book of the series and that begins their banter back and forth. They have great chemistry from the beginning even their barbs are more on the sarcastic side, but soon turns to flirting and more. Max is very protective of Sparkle when someone from his past comes to town, they stay strong for one another and Max is willing to do anything to protect Sparkle.
The writing is fun and a good read. Great plot and beautiful ending. I enjoy Max and Sparkle from beginning to end. Once I started, I couldn’t stop (I only took a break to sleep then woke up and picked it up again), I just couldn’t put their story down.
Once again Davidson King writes any book to add to my favorites list.
Max and Sparkle are both introduced in the first book of the series and that begins their banter back and forth. They have great chemistry from the beginning even their barbs are more on the sarcastic side, but soon turns to flirting and more. Max is very protective of Sparkle when someone from his past comes to town, they stay strong for one another and Max is willing to do anything to protect Sparkle.
The writing is fun and a good read. Great plot and beautiful ending. I enjoy Max and Sparkle from beginning to end. Once I started, I couldn’t stop (I only took a break to sleep then woke up and picked it up again), I just couldn’t put their story down.
Once again Davidson King writes any book to add to my favorites list.
July 22, 2020
Romance in a grittier setting
We're back in Haven Hart where the good and the evil are always balancing on a scale and where the good guys sometimes has to do bad things to survive. The romance isn't just puppies and unicorns either, but we do get an adorable doggie and Sparkles.
Max, who's the head bartender at Jokers Sin and Lane, the bright dancer dipped in glitter have been having this thing where they are half flirting, half insulting. Mostly flitting by Max an insults by Lane. But when a new player enters the field in Haven Hart and it's a old enemy of Sparkles it also brings him and Max closer and preconceived notions are put aside for real feelings and a deeper connection.
Loved these two together and Tank the Mighty is the most adorable little protector in the book. And of course I'm left with wanting Ledger or Ciros story as soon as possible.
We're back in Haven Hart where the good and the evil are always balancing on a scale and where the good guys sometimes has to do bad things to survive. The romance isn't just puppies and unicorns either, but we do get an adorable doggie and Sparkles.
Max, who's the head bartender at Jokers Sin and Lane, the bright dancer dipped in glitter have been having this thing where they are half flirting, half insulting. Mostly flitting by Max an insults by Lane. But when a new player enters the field in Haven Hart and it's a old enemy of Sparkles it also brings him and Max closer and preconceived notions are put aside for real feelings and a deeper connection.
Loved these two together and Tank the Mighty is the most adorable little protector in the book. And of course I'm left with wanting Ledger or Ciros story as soon as possible.
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