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Made Marian #6
Dante
AJ: I know Dante’s story better than anyone. After all, I was the one who rescued him from his homophobic, abusive father eight years ago. Since then, I’ve kept my distance, but when I run into him at the Marian House gala and he doesn’t recognize me, I can’t resist the incredible, sensitive man he’s become.
I would do anything to protect Dante Marian, but what if his past keeps me from being part of his future?
Dante: Every new relationship has obstacles, it just turns out that ours involves my bumbling inexperience (ugh), an octogenarian naughty toy party (don’t ask), and being on the run in an RV with Aunt Tilly (it involves the Secret Service— no really, don’t ask).
When my biological father takes his homophobic views on a national platform, the only way to stand up for what I believe in is to claim my past and confront him. So now it’s time to decide: do I put the past behind me and walk away from AJ for good or face my biggest fear and fight for what’s mine?
Fair warning: Dante and AJ’s story contains frequent detailed scenes of man parts touching, little old ladies being inappropriate (this time with, ah, props), and two hearts finding their HEA when they least expect it.
While it can also be read on its own, Delivering Dante is the sixth in the Made Marian series. Each book tells the story of one of the Marian brothers' search for true love.
Trigger Warning: Delivering Dante includes references to domestic violence and conversion therapy.
I would do anything to protect Dante Marian, but what if his past keeps me from being part of his future?
Dante: Every new relationship has obstacles, it just turns out that ours involves my bumbling inexperience (ugh), an octogenarian naughty toy party (don’t ask), and being on the run in an RV with Aunt Tilly (it involves the Secret Service— no really, don’t ask).
When my biological father takes his homophobic views on a national platform, the only way to stand up for what I believe in is to claim my past and confront him. So now it’s time to decide: do I put the past behind me and walk away from AJ for good or face my biggest fear and fight for what’s mine?
Fair warning: Dante and AJ’s story contains frequent detailed scenes of man parts touching, little old ladies being inappropriate (this time with, ah, props), and two hearts finding their HEA when they least expect it.
While it can also be read on its own, Delivering Dante is the sixth in the Made Marian series. Each book tells the story of one of the Marian brothers' search for true love.
Trigger Warning: Delivering Dante includes references to domestic violence and conversion therapy.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2017
563 people are currently reading
935 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Lennox
94 books4,394 followersI write M/M romance with humor, heart, and heat. Check out my backlist here on GR for a selection of series and standalone or visit www.LucyLennox.com!
I only keep a small list of my very favorite books and series in my bookshelf here. I read A LOT and it's hard to keep the list updated!
I only keep a small list of my very favorite books and series in my bookshelf here. I read A LOT and it's hard to keep the list updated!
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August 8, 2024
Delivering Dante is book six in the Made Marian series by Lucy Lennox. I love this series so much. I think Dante was the brother of the Marian Clan I knew the least. And his history was truly awful. Although I really enjoyed the book since it’s part of this series, I didn’t enjoy it as much as the others.
Dante Marian is now twenty three years old. Eight years ago, he had pretty much given up. Broken, both physically and emotionally, he had no hope. Until he was rescued and brought to San Francisco. In time, he met the Marians who eventually became his family. He now runs the Marian House, an LGBTQ youth program for children needing refuge, just like he did. But, Dante has spent the eight years since his own rescue keeping his past hidden. He has kept parts of himself locked away from everyone.
Eight years ago, AJ Flores, only seventeen himself at that time, rescued a broken boy from a church basement. Now all these years later, at a gala celebrating the Marian House youth program, AJ sees him again, no longer that young boy but a beautiful grown man. And Dante doesn’t recognize him. AJ is instantly smitten with Dante but what will happen when he learns the truth as to who he really is and how their pasts are entwined?
Of course, Aunt Tilly is involved when AJ and Dante are taken on a wild ride to Vegas in an RV. As they grow closer, AJ knows he has to tell Dante the truth but can’t bring himself to do it. Keeping his past locked away, though, soon becomes impossible when Dante’s biological father decides to run for public office. Will Dante be brave enough to expose the monster he knows that he really is? Or will he continue to keep his past locked away?
Dante’s story really was heartbreaking. And I loved the way these two men’s lives were entwined at an early age. It’s a history they will forever share. It’s just that at times, Dante’s behavior got to be a little annoying. As always, I loved spending time with this family and even though Aunt Tilly is completely crazy, there is, at times, a method to her madness so to speak. All in all, I did enjoy the book. It just wasn’t one of my favorites. Now I’m on to the next book, book seven, A Very Marian Christmas. I can’t wait.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Dante Marian is now twenty three years old. Eight years ago, he had pretty much given up. Broken, both physically and emotionally, he had no hope. Until he was rescued and brought to San Francisco. In time, he met the Marians who eventually became his family. He now runs the Marian House, an LGBTQ youth program for children needing refuge, just like he did. But, Dante has spent the eight years since his own rescue keeping his past hidden. He has kept parts of himself locked away from everyone.
Eight years ago, AJ Flores, only seventeen himself at that time, rescued a broken boy from a church basement. Now all these years later, at a gala celebrating the Marian House youth program, AJ sees him again, no longer that young boy but a beautiful grown man. And Dante doesn’t recognize him. AJ is instantly smitten with Dante but what will happen when he learns the truth as to who he really is and how their pasts are entwined?
Of course, Aunt Tilly is involved when AJ and Dante are taken on a wild ride to Vegas in an RV. As they grow closer, AJ knows he has to tell Dante the truth but can’t bring himself to do it. Keeping his past locked away, though, soon becomes impossible when Dante’s biological father decides to run for public office. Will Dante be brave enough to expose the monster he knows that he really is? Or will he continue to keep his past locked away?
Dante’s story really was heartbreaking. And I loved the way these two men’s lives were entwined at an early age. It’s a history they will forever share. It’s just that at times, Dante’s behavior got to be a little annoying. As always, I loved spending time with this family and even though Aunt Tilly is completely crazy, there is, at times, a method to her madness so to speak. All in all, I did enjoy the book. It just wasn’t one of my favorites. Now I’m on to the next book, book seven, A Very Marian Christmas. I can’t wait.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
May 2, 2017
So, I'm going to be in the outcast group, because while I liked the story eventually, it simply didn't blow me away. The opening chapter of the book was rather dark and seemed to be setting an overall theme for the book. That was true to an extent but I feel that much of it got lost before there was any final impact from it. The fairly sudden shift from that to the Marion family shenanigans and the obscene octogenarians just didn't work for me.
Going from a simple dinner date to a week long forced road trip felt quite choppy in places. It might have been better if Dante and AJ connecting was more of the focus, but the frequent interruptions of quick BJ's, in between interrogating Aunt Tilly, took away any substance. Then there was the obligatory descent of the entire Marion clan, who have the remarkable ability to be able to drop everything on a moments notice, all at the same time. Quite frankly, I was bored. Aunt Tilly's situation simply felt absurd and pointless and I felt no great draw to AJ or Dante.
It started to pick up at around 50%, and then there was much drama, but seemed like mostly reasonable reactions, given the situation. But once again, true love is only achieved by the meddling of the family. Then again, Dante was a wallower, pity party of one. Finally the situation from the first chapter is addressed but it didn't make me feel that it was very satisfactory or resolved effectively. It felt like it was ended on a whimper, not a bang.
Perhaps I've simply reached a surfeit of Marions. But I didn't get the same level of humor or banter from anyone, just the rather gross comments from the older ladies, whom I've never much cared for in the stories anyway. Sorry Lucy, but hopefully new characters and scenarios will draw me into your next book.
An ARC was provided to me by the author for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion. A review was not a requirement
Going from a simple dinner date to a week long forced road trip felt quite choppy in places. It might have been better if Dante and AJ connecting was more of the focus, but the frequent interruptions of quick BJ's, in between interrogating Aunt Tilly, took away any substance. Then there was the obligatory descent of the entire Marion clan, who have the remarkable ability to be able to drop everything on a moments notice, all at the same time. Quite frankly, I was bored. Aunt Tilly's situation simply felt absurd and pointless and I felt no great draw to AJ or Dante.
It started to pick up at around 50%, and then there was much drama, but seemed like mostly reasonable reactions, given the situation. But once again, true love is only achieved by the meddling of the family. Then again, Dante was a wallower, pity party of one. Finally the situation from the first chapter is addressed but it didn't make me feel that it was very satisfactory or resolved effectively. It felt like it was ended on a whimper, not a bang.
Perhaps I've simply reached a surfeit of Marions. But I didn't get the same level of humor or banter from anyone, just the rather gross comments from the older ladies, whom I've never much cared for in the stories anyway. Sorry Lucy, but hopefully new characters and scenarios will draw me into your next book.
An ARC was provided to me by the author for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion. A review was not a requirement
September 15, 2019
Wow, this was a really powerful story. I think I fall more and more in love with this series with each new book. Problem though...is Dante the last Marion?? I hope not. I'm not ready to let go of this series yet!!
But this book is about the youngest Marion...Dante who used to be Daniel. Like all the Marion's, his backstory is pretty harsh. His preacher father was abusive and brutal. He tried conversion therapy on Dante and when that didn't work, he reverted to good, old-fashioned beatings. But Dante was saved by another kid named Angel.
He doesn't realize it at the time, but Dante's Angel is actually AJ...and that's where the conflict in the story comes into play.
I liked this book. Dante has some real fears and phobias that come from his time under his father's thumb. How he overcomes these in this story creates a great character arc for him. I loved getting to watch him find his inner strength to stand up for what was right.
As always the writing was really interesting and the narration for the audiobook was spot on. I have one problem with these audiobooks...I can't walk away from them, so I always manage to finish them in record time...which isn't good for my productivity in other areas. LOL.
I definitely recommend this one and ALL the Marion books, although each of them works as a standalone. The entire series is fabulous. I've listened to all of them on audio...also highly recommended!
But this book is about the youngest Marion...Dante who used to be Daniel. Like all the Marion's, his backstory is pretty harsh. His preacher father was abusive and brutal. He tried conversion therapy on Dante and when that didn't work, he reverted to good, old-fashioned beatings. But Dante was saved by another kid named Angel.
He doesn't realize it at the time, but Dante's Angel is actually AJ...and that's where the conflict in the story comes into play.
I liked this book. Dante has some real fears and phobias that come from his time under his father's thumb. How he overcomes these in this story creates a great character arc for him. I loved getting to watch him find his inner strength to stand up for what was right.
As always the writing was really interesting and the narration for the audiobook was spot on. I have one problem with these audiobooks...I can't walk away from them, so I always manage to finish them in record time...which isn't good for my productivity in other areas. LOL.
I definitely recommend this one and ALL the Marion books, although each of them works as a standalone. The entire series is fabulous. I've listened to all of them on audio...also highly recommended!
May 5, 2017
Dante is the last brother (that I'm aware of), but even if he's not I'm throwing in the towel here.
The older ladies have worn me out. The first half of the book is filled with Tilly and her shenanigans. Again. And frankly, I don't find her behavior amusing or endearing. Hearing someone say, "...the man slurps a good oyster if you know what I mean." is not cute. It's offensive and off-putting. I don't see the point of adding the Vegas/Tilly/marriage plot line when it added little to the story. The relationship development suffered as a result.
I've really enjoyed other books in this series. Taming Teddy and Jumping Jude are my favorites. I wish the series would have stayed along those lines instead of the constant distractions with the secondary characters. I can't recommend this one.
The older ladies have worn me out. The first half of the book is filled with Tilly and her shenanigans. Again. And frankly, I don't find her behavior amusing or endearing. Hearing someone say, "...the man slurps a good oyster if you know what I mean." is not cute. It's offensive and off-putting. I don't see the point of adding the Vegas/Tilly/marriage plot line when it added little to the story. The relationship development suffered as a result.
I've really enjoyed other books in this series. Taming Teddy and Jumping Jude are my favorites. I wish the series would have stayed along those lines instead of the constant distractions with the secondary characters. I can't recommend this one.
January 4, 2023
I really did not like the first part of this book, the road trip with Aunt Tilly. Like, I already greatly dislike Tilly - but she was just way too obnoxious on this road trip. It was horrible. There is so much I could say I disliked about it, but in summary I did not like it at all.
I almost wanted to rate this book 3 stars, but wow did the ending get so good! Once the road trip with Tilly was over, it was like I was reading an entirely different book and I loved it. I really actually loved Dante and his speech at the end made the whole book for me. The second half was definitely enough to bring the book back up to four stars.
I almost wanted to rate this book 3 stars, but wow did the ending get so good! Once the road trip with Tilly was over, it was like I was reading an entirely different book and I loved it. I really actually loved Dante and his speech at the end made the whole book for me. The second half was definitely enough to bring the book back up to four stars.
June 25, 2022
I love this book! This was book 6 in the
"Made Marian"
series. Dante Marian was rescued from his father's church basement when he was 15 years old is father is a politician who believes in conversion therapy as away to stop his son from being gay. Dante is a quite shy 23 year old virgin he also has panic attacks. Angel "AJ" Flores is the nephew of Londa she is the woman ran the youth center. AJ just moved to S.F. to start a new job with on the Six a security firm that Derek use to work for. AJ has a secret he was the man that rescued Dante eight years ago he doesn't want to get to close to Dante, but he is very attracted to him. Dante has a lot of demons in his past that he thought he dealt with but when his father begins running for Congress he is put back in the stoplight along with being the director of
"Marian House"
. This book was funny and nothing was funnier than Aunt Tilly, Granny and Irene and the sex toy party trying to learn how to give BJ's. Also in this book Tilly gets in some trouble when she gets drunk in Vegas and marries a Senator and the Secret Services shows up looking for her. This was a really good book and AJ and Dante has a few issues to get over like Dante realizing that AJ was the Angel that rescued him. I had a lot of issues with his parents although it was is mother that called AJ's dad to rescue Dante she did not stand up for him what kind of mother wouldn't be their for there child. His father was a real piece of work he was a reverend and to treat his only child the way he did was something I will never understand I know that this is a book but there are people in this world who treat there kids this way is just sad to me. This book had some hot sex scenes in it I liked that AJ was patient with Dante and didn't want to rush him. This book was well written with the rest of the books in this series with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series. I loved listening to this book on audio for my re read.
May 9, 2017
Lucy Lennox, I love you so much!
How can you write such good and funny books?
I loved Delivering Dante! The story was light, sweet, low angst and hilarious!
The Marians are all funny, but Aunt Tilly is just crazy-funny. I loved her and the other ladies so much! It's not a Marian Book without the old ladies! :D
**
Dante was so cute. I was so loving him with his awkwardness and inexperience. And then he pissed me off big time. Argh! But he got better, I moved on and now I love him again. :)
A.J. was protective of Dante. And I have to say I love a protective guy! xD He was also sweet, funny and Hot. Loved him!!! (I want an A.J. just for me, please?)
The two of them together were sweet, hot , lovely... And how they met was so great and emotional: I mean, they clearly meant to be together!
I felt like "same old, same old" a few times while I was reading, but It was a good type of "same old, same old"... so It was ok. :-)
This book was a total guilty pleasure to me.
The thing I didn't like: the book finished with a few open questions and I want more! aaargh
But...
Lucy informed in her letter (end of the book) that will be more tales about the Marians and so, maybe the questions I have will be answered. I'm curious!
Another thing: Will Lucy write a m/f tale with Simone as the main character? Dante promised to Simone a payback and didn't delivery yet... so I'm waiting for it. (love brothers payback)
Well, I love Lucy Lennox writing so I for sure will read anything she publishes. :)
How can you write such good and funny books?
I loved Delivering Dante! The story was light, sweet, low angst and hilarious!
The Marians are all funny, but Aunt Tilly is just crazy-funny. I loved her and the other ladies so much! It's not a Marian Book without the old ladies! :D
**
Dante was so cute. I was so loving him with his awkwardness and inexperience. And then he pissed me off big time. Argh! But he got better, I moved on and now I love him again. :)
A.J. was protective of Dante. And I have to say I love a protective guy! xD He was also sweet, funny and Hot. Loved him!!! (I want an A.J. just for me, please?)
The two of them together were sweet, hot , lovely... And how they met was so great and emotional: I mean, they clearly meant to be together!
I felt like "same old, same old" a few times while I was reading, but It was a good type of "same old, same old"... so It was ok. :-)
This book was a total guilty pleasure to me.
The thing I didn't like: the book finished with a few open questions and I want more! aaargh
But...
Lucy informed in her letter (end of the book) that will be more tales about the Marians and so, maybe the questions I have will be answered. I'm curious!
Another thing: Will Lucy write a m/f tale with Simone as the main character? Dante promised to Simone a payback and didn't delivery yet... so I'm waiting for it. (love brothers payback)
Well, I love Lucy Lennox writing so I for sure will read anything she publishes. :)
January 23, 2018
4 Stars
I’ve become a very big fan of Lucy Lennox and her stories in a very short amount of time, and I’m happy to say this sixth story is among one of my favourites in this delightfully sweet and sexy series.
For me, this is equally the most emotionally gripping and the most amusing story within the series. Although all of the previous Marian stories have had their fair share of drama and joy, I feel like one sentiment has always overwhelmed the other when I think back on each specific book. Here, the balance between quirky humour and profound emotion is just right.
The story follows Dante Marian – the youngest of the Marian clan, and the third adopted brother in the family – as he falls hard and fast for newcomer AJ.
Although Dante and AJ share an attraction that is immediate and palpable – think eyes-locking-across-a-crowded-room-and-needing-that-person-now kind of immediate and palpable – Dante’s inexperience and general awkwardness helps to slow their romantic progress, allowing a bit more time for relationship development and believability in regards to depth of feelings brewing between the two, certainly more so than has been present in any of the previous stories within the series.
The angst (although still light in my opinion) is felt in the unfolding of past events that were once experienced by traumatised, yet so very sweet and open Dante. His childhood was definitely not a happy one, having faced various forms of abuse as a teen, but his life took a drastic and influential turn when, at 15, he was extracted from his horrible home situation and whisked away to San Francisco for his own safety by a heroic third party he only knew as his Angel. Once in San Fran, Dante met and was quickly adopted by the Marian’s, finally finding himself embraced by a family who continually showed him the true meaning of unconditional love and support.
Though, as they say, the past never truly stays in the past, and in quick succession Dante finds himself faced with two shocking truths. The first is that his promising new love interest, AJ, is actually the man who once rescued Dante from his abusive past. Although this is a surprising revelation for poor blindsided Dante, and one he needs time to process and accept, the more troubling development (really the only truly troubling development in the whole story) occurs when Dante’s biological father, the religious extremist, publicly announces his plans to run for office, where he plans to preach his homophobic views nationally.
With his true family by his side and the love of a man he never saw coming, Dante finally overcomes his past once and for all and learns to embrace his future happiness with an open and hopeful heart.
Although it dealt with some heavier issues, Dante and AJ’s story was ultimately one full of romance, positivity, hope and laughter, and I'm pleased to say it was a major hit for me.
***********************************
Audio Edition:
As always, I can't seem to come about physically reading this series when Michael Pauley continues to bring these characters and their stories to life with such talent and grace in the audio versions. He's undoubtedly added to my overall enjoyment of this series, and I look forward to re-listening again and again whenever the mood strikes me!
I’ve become a very big fan of Lucy Lennox and her stories in a very short amount of time, and I’m happy to say this sixth story is among one of my favourites in this delightfully sweet and sexy series.
For me, this is equally the most emotionally gripping and the most amusing story within the series. Although all of the previous Marian stories have had their fair share of drama and joy, I feel like one sentiment has always overwhelmed the other when I think back on each specific book. Here, the balance between quirky humour and profound emotion is just right.
The story follows Dante Marian – the youngest of the Marian clan, and the third adopted brother in the family – as he falls hard and fast for newcomer AJ.
Although Dante and AJ share an attraction that is immediate and palpable – think eyes-locking-across-a-crowded-room-and-needing-that-person-now kind of immediate and palpable – Dante’s inexperience and general awkwardness helps to slow their romantic progress, allowing a bit more time for relationship development and believability in regards to depth of feelings brewing between the two, certainly more so than has been present in any of the previous stories within the series.
The angst (although still light in my opinion) is felt in the unfolding of past events that were once experienced by traumatised, yet so very sweet and open Dante. His childhood was definitely not a happy one, having faced various forms of abuse as a teen, but his life took a drastic and influential turn when, at 15, he was extracted from his horrible home situation and whisked away to San Francisco for his own safety by a heroic third party he only knew as his Angel. Once in San Fran, Dante met and was quickly adopted by the Marian’s, finally finding himself embraced by a family who continually showed him the true meaning of unconditional love and support.
Though, as they say, the past never truly stays in the past, and in quick succession Dante finds himself faced with two shocking truths. The first is that his promising new love interest, AJ, is actually the man who once rescued Dante from his abusive past. Although this is a surprising revelation for poor blindsided Dante, and one he needs time to process and accept, the more troubling development (really the only truly troubling development in the whole story) occurs when Dante’s biological father, the religious extremist, publicly announces his plans to run for office, where he plans to preach his homophobic views nationally.
With his true family by his side and the love of a man he never saw coming, Dante finally overcomes his past once and for all and learns to embrace his future happiness with an open and hopeful heart.
Although it dealt with some heavier issues, Dante and AJ’s story was ultimately one full of romance, positivity, hope and laughter, and I'm pleased to say it was a major hit for me.
***********************************
Audio Edition:
As always, I can't seem to come about physically reading this series when Michael Pauley continues to bring these characters and their stories to life with such talent and grace in the audio versions. He's undoubtedly added to my overall enjoyment of this series, and I look forward to re-listening again and again whenever the mood strikes me!
September 30, 2019
DNF @28%. The story between AJ and Dante had potential, but Aunt Tilly hijacked the whole thing and took it into the realm of ridiculous.
May 11, 2017
*** Gosh, this is a magnificent story ! ***
Eight years ago, Dante was 15, rescued by an angel
who saved him from his horrible bigot father and his followers. He ended up at San Francisco's homeless shelter run by the Marions. Now, at 23, having been adopted by the Marions, and is using his Masters Degree to run the Marion House charity.
AJ, 25, has moved to San Francisco to work
at "On Your Six Security." They specialize in recovery and extractions of people in danger. At 17, AJ's first extraction job, was taking Dante from the religious henchmen. Dante was broken, bruised and bleeding when he snuck him out of that basement. Now, it's time for AJ to face Dante and see what happens. AJ never forgot Dante, and Dante referred to his rescuer as his angel and never forgot that deed. When the men's eyes lock across the room, neither can turn away. Now the eight years of mental feelings, will be tested by physicality.
I have loved this whole series; the terrific and deeply emotional characters, the crazy antics of the close family unit, and of course, the mesmerizing tales of love found and pasts overcome. These stories are heartwarming and hopeful. Each one can stand alone, but to read them all just gives us the special privilege of knowing each character in depth, and we get the joy of each happy ending.
This tale is super sexy, and we see Dante's first time sex with a man, or anyone. He's never met anyone worth it until AJ came into his life now. Their lives become one and quickly, they are inseparable.
An awesome "Made Marion" book by amazing writer Lucy Lennox. She never lets me down.
Highly recommended ! ENJOY !
=======================
There are descriptions of Dante's treatment by the religious nuts, conversion therapy and beatings.
FREE on Kindle Unlimited.
=====================
Eight years ago, Dante was 15, rescued by an angel
who saved him from his horrible bigot father and his followers. He ended up at San Francisco's homeless shelter run by the Marions. Now, at 23, having been adopted by the Marions, and is using his Masters Degree to run the Marion House charity.
AJ, 25, has moved to San Francisco to work
at "On Your Six Security." They specialize in recovery and extractions of people in danger. At 17, AJ's first extraction job, was taking Dante from the religious henchmen. Dante was broken, bruised and bleeding when he snuck him out of that basement. Now, it's time for AJ to face Dante and see what happens. AJ never forgot Dante, and Dante referred to his rescuer as his angel and never forgot that deed. When the men's eyes lock across the room, neither can turn away. Now the eight years of mental feelings, will be tested by physicality.
I have loved this whole series; the terrific and deeply emotional characters, the crazy antics of the close family unit, and of course, the mesmerizing tales of love found and pasts overcome. These stories are heartwarming and hopeful. Each one can stand alone, but to read them all just gives us the special privilege of knowing each character in depth, and we get the joy of each happy ending.
This tale is super sexy, and we see Dante's first time sex with a man, or anyone. He's never met anyone worth it until AJ came into his life now. Their lives become one and quickly, they are inseparable.
An awesome "Made Marion" book by amazing writer Lucy Lennox. She never lets me down.
Highly recommended ! ENJOY !
=======================
There are descriptions of Dante's treatment by the religious nuts, conversion therapy and beatings.
FREE on Kindle Unlimited.
=====================
July 21, 2022
3.5 stars but rounding up…
Dante you deserve all the love, your childhood was horrific and so glad you got out of that.
And AJ your support for Dante is amazing..
The whole Tilly secret service thing was annoying and unnecessary.. after 6 books of the old ladies I can say… they are annoying hahaha they were fine for the first couple books but this one had too much Tilly.
I do wish that some of the petty fights that AJ and Dante had late in the book weren’t needed and they just talked instead of yell, leave then make up.
But overall I did like Dante’s book more than Griff and Maverick’s, and about the same as Jamie and Blue’s books.
Dante you deserve all the love, your childhood was horrific and so glad you got out of that.
And AJ your support for Dante is amazing..
The whole Tilly secret service thing was annoying and unnecessary.. after 6 books of the old ladies I can say… they are annoying hahaha they were fine for the first couple books but this one had too much Tilly.
I do wish that some of the petty fights that AJ and Dante had late in the book weren’t needed and they just talked instead of yell, leave then make up.
But overall I did like Dante’s book more than Griff and Maverick’s, and about the same as Jamie and Blue’s books.
November 5, 2025
The Tilly storyline is borderline unreadable. I cannot with the raunchy, sex-obsessed old grannies in this genre. It’s just not funny to me. When a group of them asked her grandsons to show them how to perform fellatio on dildos because they forgot how… 🙄🙄
I know, I’m no fun.
But this book was not good. Sorry.
I know, I’m no fun.
But this book was not good. Sorry.
March 16, 2018
This book started really good. Dante in a terrible situation, AJ saving him. The promise of more sweetness to come.
Even as the years pass, neither can forget the other, although Dante doesnt know who his "Angel" really is. Then we have his speech at the gala and I thought "wow, what a brave character". The joke was on me.
On the other hand, AJ's a sweetheart. He's brave and smart and tough, so why the hell doesnt he speak up from the beginning? I got that question answered when the truth finally comes out. Who would've known? He was right about the reaction Dante was going to have! Like a total brat!!!
Aaannnd we go downhill from there...
I get it, I do. Dante's hurt, but... after you realize the man you're falling for and the savior who rescued you from your worst nightmare are the same person, your first reaction is to... BITCH ABOUT IT??? Seriously???
No, sorry, but no. That was the point where Dante lost all my sympathy.
The story was already annoying me, more centered on the crazy aunt than on them, and when we're finally getting to the part where their relationship can develop deeper, Dante throws a temper tantrum on AJ? Can I bitch slap him?
Thank God this audible was free, because up until the 50% mark, the only thing I'd liked was the narrator.
And dont get me started on the old ladies! Ok, yes, get me started! They were so funny in the first book, throwing comic relief and some wisdom around. In this one? Oh man, I wish someone had told Lennox to write them off before chapter 5.
More important: I was so happy to have finally found an author that didnt use lack of communication as a plot device, and then boom! Here we are again. And even when they actually talked, Dante kept acting like a whiny bitch!
Another thing: Im a big fan of having fun and act as kids every once in a while, but seriously, this story is a contradiction of age vs behavior that I couldnt understand.
Now Im wondering how long Im gonna keep ranting, but you have to understand, it comes from disappointment. I loved the first book so much that Im sad this one was so promising and ended up being so far from the original plot, that its not even funny.
The ending was somehow redeeming, but not enough for me to give it more than 2 stars. Why? Because it was the aunt who forced Dante to do something, he never really grew a pair by himself, someone always had to push him to do the right thing. Chicken-shit asshat.
I really hope the rest of the series (I've only gone through first and last brother) is better.
Even as the years pass, neither can forget the other, although Dante doesnt know who his "Angel" really is. Then we have his speech at the gala and I thought "wow, what a brave character". The joke was on me.
On the other hand, AJ's a sweetheart. He's brave and smart and tough, so why the hell doesnt he speak up from the beginning? I got that question answered when the truth finally comes out. Who would've known? He was right about the reaction Dante was going to have! Like a total brat!!!
Aaannnd we go downhill from there...
I get it, I do. Dante's hurt, but... after you realize the man you're falling for and the savior who rescued you from your worst nightmare are the same person, your first reaction is to... BITCH ABOUT IT??? Seriously???
No, sorry, but no. That was the point where Dante lost all my sympathy.
The story was already annoying me, more centered on the crazy aunt than on them, and when we're finally getting to the part where their relationship can develop deeper, Dante throws a temper tantrum on AJ? Can I bitch slap him?
Thank God this audible was free, because up until the 50% mark, the only thing I'd liked was the narrator.
And dont get me started on the old ladies! Ok, yes, get me started! They were so funny in the first book, throwing comic relief and some wisdom around. In this one? Oh man, I wish someone had told Lennox to write them off before chapter 5.
More important: I was so happy to have finally found an author that didnt use lack of communication as a plot device, and then boom! Here we are again. And even when they actually talked, Dante kept acting like a whiny bitch!
Another thing: Im a big fan of having fun and act as kids every once in a while, but seriously, this story is a contradiction of age vs behavior that I couldnt understand.
Now Im wondering how long Im gonna keep ranting, but you have to understand, it comes from disappointment. I loved the first book so much that Im sad this one was so promising and ended up being so far from the original plot, that its not even funny.
The ending was somehow redeeming, but not enough for me to give it more than 2 stars. Why? Because it was the aunt who forced Dante to do something, he never really grew a pair by himself, someone always had to push him to do the right thing. Chicken-shit asshat.
I really hope the rest of the series (I've only gone through first and last brother) is better.
May 21, 2017
I enjoyed this one and thought AJ & Dante were adorable. Their romance & story was sweet - ok maybe a little sappy, but still sweet. I liked the theme of this book and even though it was harsh it had a great message around standing up to bullies and liars. I can't believe in this day and age that shit like this still happens but sadly there are still many conservative rednecks who think "conversion" therapy is acceptable. Well done to Lucy and her Marians for highlighting the impact of of such abuse. Of course there was still the typical Aunt Tillie behavior and in this case it was necessary and lightened up the book.
August 19, 2025
This was the second time I read this book. I don’t know why I didn’t review it the first time, but that was several years ago. I didn’t even remember I’d read it until I was into it. If I’d reviewed it then I probably would have given it more stars. However, my tastes have changed over the years and I found Dante to be a little annoying. I loved him when he was with A.J., but he spent a good deal of time mad at A. J. and a great deal of time feeling sorry for himself. I love Lucy Lennox when she writes fun stories. This was just an ok read for me. This first time I read the kindle book. This time I listened to the audiobook. Michael Dean was great.
May 5, 2017
Wow... Ms. Lennox once more proves not only what an amazing author she is... but also just how incredible her "Marian family" is. This story is a tear-inducing, laugh-generating thrill ride from start to finish. Dante's story is a poingnant telling of a story that has been true too many times in the the United States in the past and still in the present. The relationship between Dante and AJ is used beautifully to tell this without being preachy. Being someone who though never physically abused; was raised in a similar church and came just as close to ending it all like Dante in his "on the bridge moment" this book resonated with me. Thank you Ms. Lennox for such an incredible story.
February 11, 2018
Ok. I liked the guys and most of the family, but I'm just done in on all the aunts and granny silliness. These women make Grandma Mazur seem sane. And half the book is dedicated to something crazy that aunt Tilly did.
I also thought the guys had sex too quickly (blowjobs count as sex, it's not all about butt), and there was too much of it.
I think this could be a very good author, if she just found someone to tone down the crazy bits.
I also thought the guys had sex too quickly (blowjobs count as sex, it's not all about butt), and there was too much of it.
I think this could be a very good author, if she just found someone to tone down the crazy bits.
September 14, 2017
3.5 Stars
Not to be a spoil sports but really sometimes I wonder if I keep reading these books for the male action or to find out what crazy shit the grannies and Aunt Tillie gets up to??? Those ladies are just bad shit crazy!!!
Sorry Dante!!! I liked your story as well no hard feelings LOL
Not to be a spoil sports but really sometimes I wonder if I keep reading these books for the male action or to find out what crazy shit the grannies and Aunt Tillie gets up to??? Those ladies are just bad shit crazy!!!
Sorry Dante!!! I liked your story as well no hard feelings LOL
March 29, 2023
The first half of the book was rather silly. Too Mich grannies that didn’t give the story anything. I feel like the grannies became a bit too much in each book and here, it just exploded. Almost to the point where it got unrealistic.
However, the guys were great. And I love reading about all the Marian men so I can’t give this a lower score than 3 stars even though the writing was sloppy.
However, the guys were great. And I love reading about all the Marian men so I can’t give this a lower score than 3 stars even though the writing was sloppy.
April 18, 2020
Absolutely perfect. What a story!
I'm so glad I took a huge break in this series so I could really appreciate Delivering Dante for the excellent book that it is. Sweet, funny, sad, romantic, and erotic. Simply wonderful.
I'd also recommend doing this series in audio. Michael Dean does a marvelous job.
P.S. you can read each of the Made Marian novels as standalones.
I'm so glad I took a huge break in this series so I could really appreciate Delivering Dante for the excellent book that it is. Sweet, funny, sad, romantic, and erotic. Simply wonderful.
I'd also recommend doing this series in audio. Michael Dean does a marvelous job.
P.S. you can read each of the Made Marian novels as standalones.
February 7, 2020
I didn’t read the rest of the series and I think I would have liked it more if I had. I liked the MC. The “funny” old ladies were a bit too much for me.
serious-dnf
June 20, 2020after DNFing the previous book in this series, I talked with my sister who already read the rest of them, and she encouraged me to skip this one as well... even though she liked this book, she knows me and my reading taste pretty well and said there are quite a few things that would annoy me, so I shouldn't waste my time on it... no rating, since I didn't actually read anything from it, but I highly encourage you to read some other reviews before you make up your own mind if you want to read this one or not :)
if you are interested, here's the link to my review of that previous book I DNFed
Moving Maverick
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
disclaimer
until further notice, I will be adding this little disclaimer at the end of all my reviews… without boring you with unnecessary details I will say this… I’ve been in a writing slump for a while now… it’s happened before, but usually didn’t last very long… it’s connected to a lot of different things in my life, but all those details are personal so I won’t get into them right now… this time unfortunately it’s been already six weeks and it doesn't look like it’s gonna change anytime soon… in all this time I was unable to sit down and write reviews for the books I’ve been reading… and I don’t want to wait any longer, cause I already accumulated quite a few to do… so going forward I will be just writing a very short ones… with maybe an exception here and there if I feel like it ;) I don't want to put pressure on myself to write long and detailed reviews that I used to do for the longest time… instead I will try and add some links to other reviews here on Goodreads if I see ones that I feel share my thoughts and opinions on the stories I read… in the meantime I wish you all happy reading :)
XOXO
A
if you are interested, here's the link to my review of that previous book I DNFed
Moving Maverick
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
disclaimer
until further notice, I will be adding this little disclaimer at the end of all my reviews… without boring you with unnecessary details I will say this… I’ve been in a writing slump for a while now… it’s happened before, but usually didn’t last very long… it’s connected to a lot of different things in my life, but all those details are personal so I won’t get into them right now… this time unfortunately it’s been already six weeks and it doesn't look like it’s gonna change anytime soon… in all this time I was unable to sit down and write reviews for the books I’ve been reading… and I don’t want to wait any longer, cause I already accumulated quite a few to do… so going forward I will be just writing a very short ones… with maybe an exception here and there if I feel like it ;) I don't want to put pressure on myself to write long and detailed reviews that I used to do for the longest time… instead I will try and add some links to other reviews here on Goodreads if I see ones that I feel share my thoughts and opinions on the stories I read… in the meantime I wish you all happy reading :)
XOXO
A
January 31, 2024
2.5
could have been minimum 3 stars if AJ hadn't put so much pressure on Dante (a traumatized victim, ffs)
so.. last Marian book ?
this reminded me, in a way, of Griff's romance pace. i mean, the whole series has a similar and familiar pace, which is not bad per se. but i think going through all the books in less than 2 weeks wasn't the smartest idea. if feels repetitive with just the main story and characters' names change.
Dante is a strong man. he worked so much on himself and has become an amazing figure. AJ's attention can be pure, but, really, don't force a victim to face their fear. they can be strong, but let them deal with things at their own pace. for the love of God.
this could turn into an unhealthy relationship.
could have been minimum 3 stars if AJ hadn't put so much pressure on Dante (a traumatized victim, ffs)
so.. last Marian book ?
this reminded me, in a way, of Griff's romance pace. i mean, the whole series has a similar and familiar pace, which is not bad per se. but i think going through all the books in less than 2 weeks wasn't the smartest idea. if feels repetitive with just the main story and characters' names change.
Dante is a strong man. he worked so much on himself and has become an amazing figure. AJ's attention can be pure, but, really, don't force a victim to face their fear. they can be strong, but let them deal with things at their own pace. for the love of God.
this could turn into an unhealthy relationship.
March 31, 2022
This book was a lot heavier in some topics than the other books, so please be aware when picking this one up.
I knew AJ and Dante would end up with each other. I knew it as soon as AJ was introduced^^ I mean his name is Angel... soooo^^
I liked the love story between those two... But what I didn't like was the residual guilt (?) AJ had for the best thing that could have happened to Dante.
On the surface level, I really liked this book. But what my feelings are deeper down, I don't know.
Especially considering that I like Tilly only in small doses.
I knew AJ and Dante would end up with each other. I knew it as soon as AJ was introduced^^ I mean his name is Angel... soooo^^
I liked the love story between those two... But what I didn't like was the residual guilt (?) AJ had for the best thing that could have happened to Dante.
On the surface level, I really liked this book. But what my feelings are deeper down, I don't know.
Especially considering that I like Tilly only in small doses.
February 12, 2019
I really enjoyed this story. The characters were great together and the Marian family just as loving as always. In fact, it was fun to see Blue and Jude with their spouses and children as time has moved forward. Tilly is still a bit OTT to me. I understand she's supposed to be outrageous but she's more than that and has become annoying.
Dante's story is much worse than I thought but AJ and his work gave that balance. I really liked the men together though I must admit I had to suspend belief a few times during the story and simply accept the circumstances as being necessary to the story. And the strong Christian father who does more than pray the gay away is so overdone that I hope never to see it again. But, yes, used here and he wasn't on page so much as some other stories I've read.
Now, the sex? Too much. Don't get me wrong. I love sex scenes, but there comes a point when they don't need to be on page every few pages. Let the guys have some privacy. Less is more sometimes as that keeps it interesting. Just sayin'.
**3.5 stars** rounded up because of Dante. Loved him and his big, strong, silent Angel.
Dante's story is much worse than I thought but AJ and his work gave that balance. I really liked the men together though I must admit I had to suspend belief a few times during the story and simply accept the circumstances as being necessary to the story. And the strong Christian father who does more than pray the gay away is so overdone that I hope never to see it again. But, yes, used here and he wasn't on page so much as some other stories I've read.
Now, the sex? Too much. Don't get me wrong. I love sex scenes, but there comes a point when they don't need to be on page every few pages. Let the guys have some privacy. Less is more sometimes as that keeps it interesting. Just sayin'.
**3.5 stars** rounded up because of Dante. Loved him and his big, strong, silent Angel.
May 14, 2017
So weird. I guess my Kindle said I was finished because I sure didn't. I was finished but still. Sneaky.
Too, too, too much with the elderly generation, again. This happened with Alexa Land's books also. It is just way too over the top and I never, ever feel like they are grandmotherly or good influences or any of that. They are just a distraction.
I also didn't understand the attraction on AJ's side. Did he pine for 8 years? It just came across as odd.
I didn't hate it and I did really like Dante.
Very serious subject matter this one.
Alas, I won't quit the series of course.
Too, too, too much with the elderly generation, again. This happened with Alexa Land's books also. It is just way too over the top and I never, ever feel like they are grandmotherly or good influences or any of that. They are just a distraction.
I also didn't understand the attraction on AJ's side. Did he pine for 8 years? It just came across as odd.
I didn't hate it and I did really like Dante.
Very serious subject matter this one.
Alas, I won't quit the series of course.
May 20, 2024
This is my least favorite book in this series though I think it had the most potential.
Dante has been through hell, saved from a basement in a church from AJ. Eight years later they meet again, AJ keeping a secret that he is the one who saved Dante. AJ and Dante have good chemistry but AJ is going hot/cold on Dante. Dante is having his own issues and they are returning all the time, almost no development.
Dante has been through hell, saved from a basement in a church from AJ. Eight years later they meet again, AJ keeping a secret that he is the one who saved Dante. AJ and Dante have good chemistry but AJ is going hot/cold on Dante. Dante is having his own issues and they are returning all the time, almost no development.
May 12, 2017
I was tempted to go down a star just because Aunt Tilly was in this story was too much and those ladies are starting to get on my last nerve. They never have any advice or wise things to say, just dick jokes and sex stuff. However, Dante's story was my favorite so far and I loved their love story.
September 3, 2017
3.5 Stars
This entry in the series is the most madcap comedy based paired with the most touching of the stories dealing with homophobia and abuse.
Overall, it is pretty light hearted but Dante suffered a great deal as a child and confronting his abuser as an adult hurts.
Dante and Angel have explosive chemistry and the entire gang is along for this ride. We have babies and great aunts and grannies everywhere.
It is a good time even if the the emotionial resolutions are a bit ham handed.
I am looking forward to a few more in this world even though we are out of brothers.
This entry in the series is the most madcap comedy based paired with the most touching of the stories dealing with homophobia and abuse.
Overall, it is pretty light hearted but Dante suffered a great deal as a child and confronting his abuser as an adult hurts.
Dante and Angel have explosive chemistry and the entire gang is along for this ride. We have babies and great aunts and grannies everywhere.
It is a good time even if the the emotionial resolutions are a bit ham handed.
I am looking forward to a few more in this world even though we are out of brothers.
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