What do you think?
Rate this book
Road to Redemption #1
King's Gambit
I'm done with falling for bad boys …
I've got a simple plan: bartend at King's Gambit until I have enough cash to start my own yoga studio. I'm not supposed to fall for King in the process.
Whoops.
I'm over bad boys, and ex-gangster King is badder than most, but I can't resist.
When trouble at the bar threatens what we're building together, I will stand by King through thick and thin. But he's not the only one haunted by his past.
All this time, he’s been worried he'll bring me down. But I could be the pawn that brings down the king.
I've got a simple plan: bartend at King's Gambit until I have enough cash to start my own yoga studio. I'm not supposed to fall for King in the process.
Whoops.
I'm over bad boys, and ex-gangster King is badder than most, but I can't resist.
When trouble at the bar threatens what we're building together, I will stand by King through thick and thin. But he's not the only one haunted by his past.
All this time, he’s been worried he'll bring me down. But I could be the pawn that brings down the king.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 6, 2021
268 people are currently reading
356 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
May 15, 2021
I finally struck gold with Aiden Bates! Took me a long time. Excited for the next one!
April 20, 2021
3.8 stars. Acabou na melhor parte, sério isso produção? Não que os outros acontecimentos não tenha sido bom. King é um ex-gangster tenta levar uma vida direita desde que abandonou sua antiga gangue chamada de chacais. Agora é dono do clube king's gambit ( não, não é a série da Netflix 😂) é um clube bem sucedido onde seus funcionários são pessoais que precisam de uma segunda chance na vida e tal. Rory é um jovem ruivo que trabalha no clube como barman e vive dando fora baiano em seu próprio chefe que só sabe ficar igual um stalker observando o cara trabalhar. Rory esconde um passado perigoso e quando realmente o bagulho vai ficar doido na história.... O livro acaba ( porque a autora vai deixar os próximos acontecimentos para o livro 2)😑 Curti o casal, curti a capa bem style representando o king, curti boa parte dos personagens, só acho que deveria ser um livro de 400-500 páginas sem necessidade de ter que ter um segundo livro.
March 8, 2022
I was pretty curious about Rory's "dark past" as was probably intended but apparently I need the next book to find that out💀.
May 9, 2021
Aiden Bates & Ali Lyda stole my heart with their Hell's Ankhor MC series and now that they have come together again for the Road to Redemption series, I knew I had to hop on it quick!!
King and Rory both have their fair share problems that stem from their pasts. These two have managed to stay away from one another for over a year but when they finally start to become friends, they realize that their passion for each other is much more than physical.
King got clean, started his own business and has been trying to keep the people he cares about safe since, including his employees. When a drug dealer tries to get his drugs into King's Gambit King knows that he must put an end to this or risk losing everything he has worked for. As he tries to find the man who accosted Rory, he is finding it hard to resist the red head and his smart mouth.
Rory is done with bad boys. He wants to save up enough money to open his own yoga studio and working at King's Gambit is a way to do that. King, his boss might not have made the best first or second impression, but they have come to some sort of friendship now and that is all it will ever be. After someone tries to get him to bring drugs into the club Rory is always set up with a bodyguard to make sure he is safe. One night King shows up to make sure he gets home and decides to partake in his yoga class. As class ends and dinner is served Rory realizes he can't resist this man any longer.
As King and Rory's relationship grows from friends to lovers and maybe to more, they are still faced with the problem that the drug dealer is going to come back. When that very thing happens King must walk away from Rory or risk him getting hurt worse than he already has. Tough decisions are made and as secrets are revealed can these two guys put their past aside and look towards their future?
King's Gambit was such a good story from start to finish!! I feel like there is still so much to this story that we haven't got to yet, Lyda and Bates gave us a taste and now I want more. Book two promises to be full of twists as Rory's big secret was finally revealed. Looking forward to the next book in this series where we will hopefully get more of Rory's past. King's Stalemate book two comes out late May 2021!
King and Rory both have their fair share problems that stem from their pasts. These two have managed to stay away from one another for over a year but when they finally start to become friends, they realize that their passion for each other is much more than physical.
King got clean, started his own business and has been trying to keep the people he cares about safe since, including his employees. When a drug dealer tries to get his drugs into King's Gambit King knows that he must put an end to this or risk losing everything he has worked for. As he tries to find the man who accosted Rory, he is finding it hard to resist the red head and his smart mouth.
Rory is done with bad boys. He wants to save up enough money to open his own yoga studio and working at King's Gambit is a way to do that. King, his boss might not have made the best first or second impression, but they have come to some sort of friendship now and that is all it will ever be. After someone tries to get him to bring drugs into the club Rory is always set up with a bodyguard to make sure he is safe. One night King shows up to make sure he gets home and decides to partake in his yoga class. As class ends and dinner is served Rory realizes he can't resist this man any longer.
As King and Rory's relationship grows from friends to lovers and maybe to more, they are still faced with the problem that the drug dealer is going to come back. When that very thing happens King must walk away from Rory or risk him getting hurt worse than he already has. Tough decisions are made and as secrets are revealed can these two guys put their past aside and look towards their future?
King's Gambit was such a good story from start to finish!! I feel like there is still so much to this story that we haven't got to yet, Lyda and Bates gave us a taste and now I want more. Book two promises to be full of twists as Rory's big secret was finally revealed. Looking forward to the next book in this series where we will hopefully get more of Rory's past. King's Stalemate book two comes out late May 2021!
April 11, 2021
3.75 stars
I liked it.
I liked King as a character. He protected his staff and the ones he thought of as his family. He has created a little family with his staff of people who were needing an escape and a second chance. He gave them that and they are all thriving. He worked hard to get both his brother and himself away from the gang they were attached to in Rochford. They both paid a price for their escape, with Elias nearly paying with his life. King’s rampage afterwards is understandable to me. He feels a lot of guilt for things he had done during his time within the gang. His friendship with Bishop shaped his future and I very much liked that he now spent his free time helping at the local community centre.
I liked Rory too with his dreams of the yoga studio. I liked that he was working towards an end goal, but must admit I found him a little judgemental at times. He had his own skeletons and yet judged King for his. I was getting annoyed that we were not finding out about Rory’s past and the tidbit at the end now makes me want the next book like now. I don’t really understand why it was hidden as he knew King’s past, so he should have been able to talk to King about his own.
The back and forth was at times enjoyable, watching them circle around each other. King’s initial attempts to talk to Rory fell flat and he had work to do to get Rory to bed. I did wish they communicated more on the things that mattered as some of the miscommunications although short could have been dealt with before becoming an issue for the pair. For a guy who said he never apologized, King seemed to do it a lot to Rory.
I would have liked a little more back story for both of the guys and I hope that will come with the next book and that it is focused on Rory’s history.
Good start to the series, I’m interested to see where this story goes.
*** ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews. This is my honest and voluntary review ***
I liked it.
I liked King as a character. He protected his staff and the ones he thought of as his family. He has created a little family with his staff of people who were needing an escape and a second chance. He gave them that and they are all thriving. He worked hard to get both his brother and himself away from the gang they were attached to in Rochford. They both paid a price for their escape, with Elias nearly paying with his life. King’s rampage afterwards is understandable to me. He feels a lot of guilt for things he had done during his time within the gang. His friendship with Bishop shaped his future and I very much liked that he now spent his free time helping at the local community centre.
I liked Rory too with his dreams of the yoga studio. I liked that he was working towards an end goal, but must admit I found him a little judgemental at times. He had his own skeletons and yet judged King for his. I was getting annoyed that we were not finding out about Rory’s past and the tidbit at the end now makes me want the next book like now. I don’t really understand why it was hidden as he knew King’s past, so he should have been able to talk to King about his own.
The back and forth was at times enjoyable, watching them circle around each other. King’s initial attempts to talk to Rory fell flat and he had work to do to get Rory to bed. I did wish they communicated more on the things that mattered as some of the miscommunications although short could have been dealt with before becoming an issue for the pair. For a guy who said he never apologized, King seemed to do it a lot to Rory.
I would have liked a little more back story for both of the guys and I hope that will come with the next book and that it is focused on Rory’s history.
Good start to the series, I’m interested to see where this story goes.
*** ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews. This is my honest and voluntary review ***
April 10, 2021
Make your move
“Redemption isn’t something you deserve. It’s something you earn.” I feel after everything King has done and will continue to do he has earned redemption in my eyes. And with Rory he is the master of surprises and we’re introduced to the biggest one yet at the end. I really enjoyed these two together and am glad there’s more to come. In fact, I’m looking forward to seeing how their luck plays out. But my favorite part has to be the amazing found family. I love how such diverse and intense people come together and will do anything for each other out of friendship and love. I truly hope that some of the fantastic side characters will feature in their own books in the future.
“Redemption isn’t something you deserve. It’s something you earn.” I feel after everything King has done and will continue to do he has earned redemption in my eyes. And with Rory he is the master of surprises and we’re introduced to the biggest one yet at the end. I really enjoyed these two together and am glad there’s more to come. In fact, I’m looking forward to seeing how their luck plays out. But my favorite part has to be the amazing found family. I love how such diverse and intense people come together and will do anything for each other out of friendship and love. I truly hope that some of the fantastic side characters will feature in their own books in the future.
January 16, 2022
Really good😍 Rory is a very good character and loved the interaction with King.
May 25, 2021
Wow, wow, wow .... I loved listening to this book so much.
normally I switch between audio and kindle version of a book, as it fits my mood and work. but here I didn't want to start reading.
Thomas Hart is a new narrator for me but he does such a great job. I could listen to him the whole day - so good!!!!
King and Rory are great together and I loved Rorys attitude. I loved how they teased each other and how they work together.
the secondary characters are great too and I can't wait to get their stories as well - after reading the next one about King and Rory, and maybe another one with these two as main characters. I think there is a lot of potential *pretty please*
can't wait for the next book as this one ends with a small cliffhanger. fortunately it is only 3 weeks for the next book to come out
4,5 stars for the book and 5 big stars for the audio. can't wait to get my hands on more books narrated by Thomas Hart
Disclaimer: an ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
normally I switch between audio and kindle version of a book, as it fits my mood and work. but here I didn't want to start reading.
Thomas Hart is a new narrator for me but he does such a great job. I could listen to him the whole day - so good!!!!
King and Rory are great together and I loved Rorys attitude. I loved how they teased each other and how they work together.
the secondary characters are great too and I can't wait to get their stories as well - after reading the next one about King and Rory, and maybe another one with these two as main characters. I think there is a lot of potential *pretty please*
can't wait for the next book as this one ends with a small cliffhanger. fortunately it is only 3 weeks for the next book to come out
4,5 stars for the book and 5 big stars for the audio. can't wait to get my hands on more books narrated by Thomas Hart
Disclaimer: an ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
April 19, 2021
This is my 1st book with these authors. I think the characters were well thought out. The world of King’s Gambit was interesting AND Rory And King had chemistry for days. It was a slow burn but when they got to it, it was molten hot. Rory and King both have serious baggage. I guess we will learn more in book 2 about all of Rory’s.
As I read this book, I did not even know there would be a book 2 so the cliffhanger threw me and made me a little cranky. I’m curious enough about these characters that I’ll read book 2 though..
As I read this book, I did not even know there would be a book 2 so the cliffhanger threw me and made me a little cranky. I’m curious enough about these characters that I’ll read book 2 though..
July 31, 2022
This would have been a decent read except it needs massive editing. I noticed sentences missing specific key words to complete the thought. It wasn't just once or twice, which I can attribute to writing/editing in a hurry (which speaks volumes of itself) but occurred several times. One sentence I had to reread five times just to figure out what was being said.
The authors clearly are not familiar with the Chicagoland area because they kept referring to Rockford as south of Chicago. ERROR! It is west of the city. I feel bad for the people of Rockford. Also, I would not ask the authors to read a map while driving. Note: in the final act, they finally are "driving west to Rockford."
I noticed some very strange linguistic choices. First paragraph: "I swirled my whiskey in the highball glass I was holding, savoring the familiar clink of the ice inside." This was questionable, since savor is usually associated with taste, even though lately writers have been adapting it to me to enjoy, to dwell... It still confused me because is King enjoying the taste of the whiskey, or the ice clink? It was sign of my engagement for the rest of the book.
Later: "Rhys carded his hair." What? Pure nonsense. No one speaks like this. (A google search did suggest this phrase is coming up out of the fanfic forums.) This phrase was used several times. Just stop with this. Writing the same phrase every time with the same character shows lazy writing.
If you want to write a massive pages-long background history on a character, don't repeat it all over again in the same chapter. Just reference to it with a brief sentence or two.
I would have given this three stars for an average read, but the editing knocks down my rating to two. It would have been one star, but the party booth sex scene was good. [Kindle edition]
The authors clearly are not familiar with the Chicagoland area because they kept referring to Rockford as south of Chicago. ERROR! It is west of the city. I feel bad for the people of Rockford. Also, I would not ask the authors to read a map while driving. Note: in the final act, they finally are "driving west to Rockford."
I noticed some very strange linguistic choices. First paragraph: "I swirled my whiskey in the highball glass I was holding, savoring the familiar clink of the ice inside." This was questionable, since savor is usually associated with taste, even though lately writers have been adapting it to me to enjoy, to dwell... It still confused me because is King enjoying the taste of the whiskey, or the ice clink? It was sign of my engagement for the rest of the book.
Later: "Rhys carded his hair." What? Pure nonsense. No one speaks like this. (A google search did suggest this phrase is coming up out of the fanfic forums.) This phrase was used several times. Just stop with this. Writing the same phrase every time with the same character shows lazy writing.
If you want to write a massive pages-long background history on a character, don't repeat it all over again in the same chapter. Just reference to it with a brief sentence or two.
I would have given this three stars for an average read, but the editing knocks down my rating to two. It would have been one star, but the party booth sex scene was good. [Kindle edition]
May 5, 2024
Should've known better
I know I should not have picked up this book, because I am aware of how much the Bates writing has changed. Almost like they're not even written by the same authors as 3yrs ago. And no. I definitely wouldn't see writer's evolution as a reason.
This book was honestly boring. It was long winded, it was repetitious, the authors attempted to make a big deal of King facing down his demons. The reality is that it fell short, it was not a big deal, it was not a big confrontation, it was totally a let down. Oh he is gonna walk into enemy territory and lay waste ....no. he punched two guys. The end ! So yes, a long, boring book that left me not wanting to read the other two in the series.
I know I should not have picked up this book, because I am aware of how much the Bates writing has changed. Almost like they're not even written by the same authors as 3yrs ago. And no. I definitely wouldn't see writer's evolution as a reason.
This book was honestly boring. It was long winded, it was repetitious, the authors attempted to make a big deal of King facing down his demons. The reality is that it fell short, it was not a big deal, it was not a big confrontation, it was totally a let down. Oh he is gonna walk into enemy territory and lay waste ....no. he punched two guys. The end ! So yes, a long, boring book that left me not wanting to read the other two in the series.
August 12, 2021
Boring. Supremely supremely boring, which was particularly egregious for a story about a supposed badass bad boy. It didn’t grab me at all and I found both characters, but especially the other MC (not King) to be unlikeable.
November 27, 2021
I think this is one of the best series Aiden Bates and Ali Lyda have ever written together! I just love the main couple, Rory and King. This is definitely a must read series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 6, 2021
Exciting, Hot, and Can't Wait for Book 2!
This is a wonderful start to a new series; a series that I’m positive will be another winner. Aiden Bates & Ali Lyda, author duel, are dynamite together. I haven’t read one of their books I haven’t liked.
All the characters in the book have charisma and they all make an incredible team/family. Rory’s the newer bartender for the club, King Gambit, and the owners are King Grey along with his younger brother Elias and King’s best friend Rhys. The three had escaped the clutches of a rough and crazy gang in Rockford called the Jackal’s, which is lead by King & Elias‘s oldest brother Drake.
King had tried to protect Elias as best he could while they were still involved trying to find a way out, and it came when Drake beat his younger brother seriously, that he was in a coma. King had enough of the gang and his oldest brother, that King rained hell on the gang, leaving behind serious loss and damaged to their club that King thought they would never tangle with him and his loved ones again.
When the three came to Chicago it was for a fresh start for them all. King’s mentor, Bishop had taught him how a man should act, protect his loved ones, and for all the wrongs we had done you give back to the community. And King had worked hard to build this club up as a respectful and safe for people to come in and have a good time. Plus King was very protective of his employees. No one hurt or messed with his employees without payback.
Rory and King met when Rory stopped at the club to fill out an application for a bartender position. It was on his way to an 80’s costume gathering and he was dressed as a boy Go-go Dancer even wearing fishnets. King was interested in this hot Rory immediately, thinking he was a whore and ask if he wanted to have sex sometime. Turned Rory off totally even if he thought King was hot. Rory shot King down twice for sex.
These two men danced around each keeping their distance not sure what they wanted and Rory didn’t fully trust King, but the physical attraction was too strong. On the way to the club for Rory’s nightshift, he was manhandled by a drug dealer from the Jackal’s that had forced a bag of drugs into Rory’s hands and told him to sell them in the club. Afraid of the man and the guy's muscle man, he was nervous that the man might hurt him so he took the drugs and ran to the club.
Rory was going to go to King immediately but Elisa had created a beer mess at the bar that needed immediate attending, then he rushed into the bathroom to clean up. On his way out Rhys ran into him and the drug pills fell to the floor. Without letting Rory explain himself he yelled at him and dragged him into King’s office. Rhys berated Rory in front of King and explained that he caught Rory with a bag of drugs. King was angry and disappointed in Rory.
A short time later Elisa showed up in the office and added his disappointing feelings and what he felt should be done. When King said what he needed to say, he turned and looked at Rory. He didn’t find a guilty man in front of him, but a man that was pissed off that no one had let him explain the situation he was caught in. Now understanding what had happened to Rory, that changed everything, but Rory had had enough and said he quit and let them all deal with the drug peddler.
No one wanted that because Rory was the best bartender they had and after King sent both Rhys and Elias away, King apologized (which he never did) and bargained with Rory with a raise for him to stay. But that raise King demanded 24-hour protection from a bodyguard. Bouncers Tomas and Cade, part of their family, agreed to do their part, along with Rhys and Elias. What Rory hadn’t counted on was King making himself a bodyguard.
This allowed Rory and King to get to know each other, or should I say Rory to understand King better about his past. Rory never shared anything about his past, except for his mother. These two men had sex that burned hot, hot, hot together in bed!...fanning myself.
I loved everything in this book as things got even crazier as trauma hits again for the couple. The action with drug dealers that involved all the characters and their loyalty ran deep in their hearts. In my humble option, no one would go wrong and getting this book. As King and Rory find their happiness together our authors leave us with what might be coming next. I can’t wait for book 2!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a wonderful start to a new series; a series that I’m positive will be another winner. Aiden Bates & Ali Lyda, author duel, are dynamite together. I haven’t read one of their books I haven’t liked.
All the characters in the book have charisma and they all make an incredible team/family. Rory’s the newer bartender for the club, King Gambit, and the owners are King Grey along with his younger brother Elias and King’s best friend Rhys. The three had escaped the clutches of a rough and crazy gang in Rockford called the Jackal’s, which is lead by King & Elias‘s oldest brother Drake.
King had tried to protect Elias as best he could while they were still involved trying to find a way out, and it came when Drake beat his younger brother seriously, that he was in a coma. King had enough of the gang and his oldest brother, that King rained hell on the gang, leaving behind serious loss and damaged to their club that King thought they would never tangle with him and his loved ones again.
When the three came to Chicago it was for a fresh start for them all. King’s mentor, Bishop had taught him how a man should act, protect his loved ones, and for all the wrongs we had done you give back to the community. And King had worked hard to build this club up as a respectful and safe for people to come in and have a good time. Plus King was very protective of his employees. No one hurt or messed with his employees without payback.
Rory and King met when Rory stopped at the club to fill out an application for a bartender position. It was on his way to an 80’s costume gathering and he was dressed as a boy Go-go Dancer even wearing fishnets. King was interested in this hot Rory immediately, thinking he was a whore and ask if he wanted to have sex sometime. Turned Rory off totally even if he thought King was hot. Rory shot King down twice for sex.
These two men danced around each keeping their distance not sure what they wanted and Rory didn’t fully trust King, but the physical attraction was too strong. On the way to the club for Rory’s nightshift, he was manhandled by a drug dealer from the Jackal’s that had forced a bag of drugs into Rory’s hands and told him to sell them in the club. Afraid of the man and the guy's muscle man, he was nervous that the man might hurt him so he took the drugs and ran to the club.
Rory was going to go to King immediately but Elisa had created a beer mess at the bar that needed immediate attending, then he rushed into the bathroom to clean up. On his way out Rhys ran into him and the drug pills fell to the floor. Without letting Rory explain himself he yelled at him and dragged him into King’s office. Rhys berated Rory in front of King and explained that he caught Rory with a bag of drugs. King was angry and disappointed in Rory.
A short time later Elisa showed up in the office and added his disappointing feelings and what he felt should be done. When King said what he needed to say, he turned and looked at Rory. He didn’t find a guilty man in front of him, but a man that was pissed off that no one had let him explain the situation he was caught in. Now understanding what had happened to Rory, that changed everything, but Rory had had enough and said he quit and let them all deal with the drug peddler.
No one wanted that because Rory was the best bartender they had and after King sent both Rhys and Elias away, King apologized (which he never did) and bargained with Rory with a raise for him to stay. But that raise King demanded 24-hour protection from a bodyguard. Bouncers Tomas and Cade, part of their family, agreed to do their part, along with Rhys and Elias. What Rory hadn’t counted on was King making himself a bodyguard.
This allowed Rory and King to get to know each other, or should I say Rory to understand King better about his past. Rory never shared anything about his past, except for his mother. These two men had sex that burned hot, hot, hot together in bed!...fanning myself.
I loved everything in this book as things got even crazier as trauma hits again for the couple. The action with drug dealers that involved all the characters and their loyalty ran deep in their hearts. In my humble option, no one would go wrong and getting this book. As King and Rory find their happiness together our authors leave us with what might be coming next. I can’t wait for book 2!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 19, 2021
Hmmm... This is more of a 3.5 star read. As I am writing this, I haven't yet decided if it is going to be 3 or 4, because Goodreads does not permit half-stars and it is a hard choice...
Okay then, how to start... There were things I liked, like their dynamics, the team at the club, their chemistry, but there were also things I did not like, like attitudes, miscommunication, personalities, some events. That is pretty usual in most books, so I am not surprised about that, but I am surprised how hard it is to pick the right rating...
I liked the premise and the cover is just drool-worthy. Tattoos are my weakness, put in the bad boy past/ trying to redeem himself premise and I am all over it. I liked their dynamics and especially King, who is trying to leave his past behind, but also willing to use his past persona to protect what is his - his club, his territory, his people. He was so anguished about his past sins, yet knew he would never be fully free of them. It was endearing how he strives to overcome it all and takes care of those dear to him, especially Rory. I liked the club and the idea behind it, I liked the staff and different side characters and the atmosphere that was created in there. King's and Rory's chemistry was off the charts and their stumbling around each other was amusing and so cute!
Yet there were several scenes and things that bothered me..
Overall, it was a nice story and King is an awesome character. Rory not so much, but if he is what King wants, he can be tolerated :D
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the author for an honest review**
Okay then, how to start... There were things I liked, like their dynamics, the team at the club, their chemistry, but there were also things I did not like, like attitudes, miscommunication, personalities, some events. That is pretty usual in most books, so I am not surprised about that, but I am surprised how hard it is to pick the right rating...
I liked the premise and the cover is just drool-worthy. Tattoos are my weakness, put in the bad boy past/ trying to redeem himself premise and I am all over it. I liked their dynamics and especially King, who is trying to leave his past behind, but also willing to use his past persona to protect what is his - his club, his territory, his people. He was so anguished about his past sins, yet knew he would never be fully free of them. It was endearing how he strives to overcome it all and takes care of those dear to him, especially Rory. I liked the club and the idea behind it, I liked the staff and different side characters and the atmosphere that was created in there. King's and Rory's chemistry was off the charts and their stumbling around each other was amusing and so cute!
Yet there were several scenes and things that bothered me..
Overall, it was a nice story and King is an awesome character. Rory not so much, but if he is what King wants, he can be tolerated :D
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the author for an honest review**
January 17, 2022
I really enjoyed King and Rory's story.
King, I really liked. He is such a protector. He's trying so hard to make up for his past but for some reason just doesn't think he deserves anything good in his life. King and Rory seem very much like opposites, but are they??
Rory, I had mixed feelings about it. I think what was off-putting was how he was so negative towards King's past. First, he believes rumors vs. facts. He steered clear of King because of what he heard. He based all his feelings on that. But there were many hints as the book went on that led one to believe that Rory isn't as innocent as he portrays himself. And based on those hints, he really didn't have the right to judge King as much as he did. He redeemed himself towards the middle/end when he finally pulled his head out of his butt and fought for King.
But what helped push this to a 5 star for me were the side characters. Rhys, Elias, Marisol, and Tomas. This group was really just a big family. They looked out for one another and they protected one another. They would stop at nothing to keep each other safe.
Holy cliffhanger at the end!! I can't wait to see where this story goes.
King, I really liked. He is such a protector. He's trying so hard to make up for his past but for some reason just doesn't think he deserves anything good in his life. King and Rory seem very much like opposites, but are they??
Rory, I had mixed feelings about it. I think what was off-putting was how he was so negative towards King's past. First, he believes rumors vs. facts. He steered clear of King because of what he heard. He based all his feelings on that. But there were many hints as the book went on that led one to believe that Rory isn't as innocent as he portrays himself. And based on those hints, he really didn't have the right to judge King as much as he did. He redeemed himself towards the middle/end when he finally pulled his head out of his butt and fought for King.
But what helped push this to a 5 star for me were the side characters. Rhys, Elias, Marisol, and Tomas. This group was really just a big family. They looked out for one another and they protected one another. They would stop at nothing to keep each other safe.
Holy cliffhanger at the end!! I can't wait to see where this story goes.
May 11, 2021
These two authors never disappoint! A great cute story with lovable characters. I can’t wait fir the next book in the series.
June 15, 2021
loved loved loved the first book in this series and the end is "where is book 2 cause I need it now"
August 16, 2021
Rating: 4 stars
I thought this to be a good start to a new trilogy. I liked both King and Rory as the MCs and I like how they are both trying to make a new life for themselves. I also liked that they had a preexisting relationship prior to the start of the book, even though it wasn’t a romantic one. It’s a nice change from the insta-love that I usually read. All in all, a really good book.
I thought this to be a good start to a new trilogy. I liked both King and Rory as the MCs and I like how they are both trying to make a new life for themselves. I also liked that they had a preexisting relationship prior to the start of the book, even though it wasn’t a romantic one. It’s a nice change from the insta-love that I usually read. All in all, a really good book.
November 15, 2022
3.5 🌟 🌟 🌟
August 1, 2021
Yes, indeed! The start of new series by dynamic duo Aiden Bates and Ali Lyda! Dang! I just knew I was in for a good time and I was right! In the book, we meet Kingston ex-gangster club owner of the popular King's Gambit nightclub whose attraction to bartender Rory is just so adorable. Yes, adorable! The writers are careful in developing an ex-gangster that we can like immediately and fall in love with long before we finish reading the book. His tenderness and care are on full display throughout the narrative but we are treated to his harder, more violent side when those he cares about are threatened. Rory works as a bartender in King's club in hopes of saving money to open his own yoga studio and it's obvious that he is committed to his work in the club. The two dance around their desire for each other, both knowing that the other represents more than what the other has had in relationships--an authentic, loving, and committed relationship! Each carries baggage from a past that is less than ideal. It's obvious what King's past is all about. The gangster wears it like clothing in the form of tattoos and scars on his skin. But it seems that Rory's past is less than pristine, too. The writers were willing to move the book along without rushing things. Readers were able to enjoy the pace in the relationship between the protagonists that didn't result in exasperation or frustration. They moved forward, then balked for good reason, then regained momentum in their union. The book ends on a bearable cliffhanger that was nothing short of perfect. I'm so looking forward to the continuation of this series. Goodness, I love when these two writers collaborate!
April 7, 2021
King is not proud of his past but he’s working hard to make up for all the bad things he’s done. King is proud of his club, King’s Gambit that he built from the ground up. He’s adamant about not getting involved with anyone because he fears his past may come back to haunt him but there’s just something about his bartender Rory that draws him in.
Rory loves working at King’s Gambit. He’s trying to save money in hopes of opening his own yoga studio. He doesn’t need or want any distractions but his boss and club owner, King is making it very difficult for Rory to stay focused. Rory has a past he’s also trying to get away from and entanglements will only complicate things.
However King and Rory can’t deny their attraction anymore and decide to have a no strings attached affair. Things quickly become complicated and King is forced to face his past in order to save his future.
This is the first book in a new series called Road to Redemption. I was a little unimpressed with the book at first. It seemed to take a while to get things going but eventually the story picked up momentum and I really enjoyed the book. The secondary characters were quite entertaining and I’m looking forward to seeing how book 2 goes.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Rory loves working at King’s Gambit. He’s trying to save money in hopes of opening his own yoga studio. He doesn’t need or want any distractions but his boss and club owner, King is making it very difficult for Rory to stay focused. Rory has a past he’s also trying to get away from and entanglements will only complicate things.
However King and Rory can’t deny their attraction anymore and decide to have a no strings attached affair. Things quickly become complicated and King is forced to face his past in order to save his future.
This is the first book in a new series called Road to Redemption. I was a little unimpressed with the book at first. It seemed to take a while to get things going but eventually the story picked up momentum and I really enjoyed the book. The secondary characters were quite entertaining and I’m looking forward to seeing how book 2 goes.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
September 3, 2021
Not worth the read
I really like a lot of Aiden Bates work but this story was so hard to get into from the start. I literally read at least 4 other whole books after starting this story before I finished. I won’t be reading the second book.
I really like a lot of Aiden Bates work but this story was so hard to get into from the start. I literally read at least 4 other whole books after starting this story before I finished. I won’t be reading the second book.
November 25, 2021
Damn, but I picked a good one to start with!
(This is a review of the Road To Redemption boxset and covers all three novels)
This is the first book I have read by either of these authors and boy, did I choose well. King and Rory grabbed me by my (non-existent!) balls and never let go. They are every woman's dream as gay book boyfriends. Hurting, alone, caring, wanting, traumatised but stoic in the face of all that each had suffered in their lives, they deserved so much more. They deserved each other.
King protects everyone he cares about, trying to keep them safe from the horrors of their pasts, doing whatever it takes so they don't have to. His guilt about his past life maks it difficult to let anyone in but looking at Rory from behind his one-way mirrored office window is his favourtie passtime. There's something about the red-haired fireball that occupies his mind and his emotions for most of his waking hours.
Rory tends bar at King's Gambit, so friendly and outgoing that everyone loves him. He knows his boss watches him, when he thinks Rory isn't looking, and he shouldn't like that at all but he does. He is drawn to King, cannot help his attraction to him even though he should run a mile from a man like that, even though he knows it can never amount to anything.
Both men are used to keeping their own council and it's not easy for them to share the secrets of their past. Even when they do open up, it's only partially as they are trying to protect the other while feeling guilty that they are putting them at risk. Their need to shelter each other from all the bad in their pasts and the present lead to questionable decisions by both of them that could have catastrohic outcomes. The road to complete honesty between them was hard won, but so satisfying.
Right from the start, King and Rory's chemistry exploded onto the page, and the attraction, lust, love that they shared was a thing of beauty to behold. The steamy scenes are sexy and sensuous, and there are lots of them to enjoy. Every time they were together I felt their love and connection, but even more so when they were in the bedroom.
Through the three books, King and Rory's love story plays out against a backdrop of fear, violence, retaliation, retribution, all from outside their immediate sphere but too close to home nonetheless. Family is not always about blood but who you choose to love and cherish as your nearest and dearest. King and Rory have a wonderful chosen family to support them, great characters that could all have their own books, and they make the book even richer for their presence.
I enjoyed their story from first page to last, and the ending left me very happy, seeing them happy and settled in their life together.
(This is a review of the Road To Redemption boxset and covers all three novels)
This is the first book I have read by either of these authors and boy, did I choose well. King and Rory grabbed me by my (non-existent!) balls and never let go. They are every woman's dream as gay book boyfriends. Hurting, alone, caring, wanting, traumatised but stoic in the face of all that each had suffered in their lives, they deserved so much more. They deserved each other.
King protects everyone he cares about, trying to keep them safe from the horrors of their pasts, doing whatever it takes so they don't have to. His guilt about his past life maks it difficult to let anyone in but looking at Rory from behind his one-way mirrored office window is his favourtie passtime. There's something about the red-haired fireball that occupies his mind and his emotions for most of his waking hours.
Rory tends bar at King's Gambit, so friendly and outgoing that everyone loves him. He knows his boss watches him, when he thinks Rory isn't looking, and he shouldn't like that at all but he does. He is drawn to King, cannot help his attraction to him even though he should run a mile from a man like that, even though he knows it can never amount to anything.
Both men are used to keeping their own council and it's not easy for them to share the secrets of their past. Even when they do open up, it's only partially as they are trying to protect the other while feeling guilty that they are putting them at risk. Their need to shelter each other from all the bad in their pasts and the present lead to questionable decisions by both of them that could have catastrohic outcomes. The road to complete honesty between them was hard won, but so satisfying.
Right from the start, King and Rory's chemistry exploded onto the page, and the attraction, lust, love that they shared was a thing of beauty to behold. The steamy scenes are sexy and sensuous, and there are lots of them to enjoy. Every time they were together I felt their love and connection, but even more so when they were in the bedroom.
Through the three books, King and Rory's love story plays out against a backdrop of fear, violence, retaliation, retribution, all from outside their immediate sphere but too close to home nonetheless. Family is not always about blood but who you choose to love and cherish as your nearest and dearest. King and Rory have a wonderful chosen family to support them, great characters that could all have their own books, and they make the book even richer for their presence.
I enjoyed their story from first page to last, and the ending left me very happy, seeing them happy and settled in their life together.
April 11, 2021
All hail the King!!!
Aiden Bates and Ali Lyda have hit gold with their latest collaboration, King's Gambit. This is the first book in a whole new series and we get introduced to some awesome new characters. First up, as the name implies, is King, who is a former gangbanger for a Chicago gang called the Jackals. King left the Jackals when his younger, gay, brother, Elias, was beaten within an inch of his life, and took a fellow Jackal, Rhys, with him. King inherited a chunk of money from a mentor, Bishop, who was a homeless guy who played chess in the Chicago park where King used to do a lot if his Jackal related business. It turned out Bishop was a lot more than just a homeless guy, and he saw something in King and over time had taught him to play chess. When he passed, he left everything he had, including a sizable chunk of change in the bank, to King, allowing him to break free from the Jackals start a nightclub, something he had always dreamed of. It allowed him to go legitimate and gave him the opportunity to employ his buddy Rhys, his brother Elias, and a number of other characters who each have their own stories to tell. The story is about King trying to find a way to redeem himself for all the harm he did in the gang, as well as falling in love with the bartender, Rory, who has stollen his heart, even though he won't admit it to anyone else, even himself. Rory has his own issues, and his past is hinted at throughout the book, but never confirmed, but which makes Rory reluctant to get involved with King, who have is his boss. Their story warms the heart, and the ending leaves you craving the next installment of this series, which I can't wait for. All in all, a fabulous read, and an excellent start to a brand new series of men who live men books. I call these M/M Romance books my gay Harlequin books, and that's literally what they are....except with way hotter sex scenes. If they don't get you hot and bothered, check your pulse!!!!
Aiden Bates and Ali Lyda have hit gold with their latest collaboration, King's Gambit. This is the first book in a whole new series and we get introduced to some awesome new characters. First up, as the name implies, is King, who is a former gangbanger for a Chicago gang called the Jackals. King left the Jackals when his younger, gay, brother, Elias, was beaten within an inch of his life, and took a fellow Jackal, Rhys, with him. King inherited a chunk of money from a mentor, Bishop, who was a homeless guy who played chess in the Chicago park where King used to do a lot if his Jackal related business. It turned out Bishop was a lot more than just a homeless guy, and he saw something in King and over time had taught him to play chess. When he passed, he left everything he had, including a sizable chunk of change in the bank, to King, allowing him to break free from the Jackals start a nightclub, something he had always dreamed of. It allowed him to go legitimate and gave him the opportunity to employ his buddy Rhys, his brother Elias, and a number of other characters who each have their own stories to tell. The story is about King trying to find a way to redeem himself for all the harm he did in the gang, as well as falling in love with the bartender, Rory, who has stollen his heart, even though he won't admit it to anyone else, even himself. Rory has his own issues, and his past is hinted at throughout the book, but never confirmed, but which makes Rory reluctant to get involved with King, who have is his boss. Their story warms the heart, and the ending leaves you craving the next installment of this series, which I can't wait for. All in all, a fabulous read, and an excellent start to a brand new series of men who live men books. I call these M/M Romance books my gay Harlequin books, and that's literally what they are....except with way hotter sex scenes. If they don't get you hot and bothered, check your pulse!!!!
April 8, 2021
Outstanding read could re-read this book right now
There is something extraordinarily special about King and Rory and their relationship. King didn’t have the best start in life and was quite violent and there was stuff that he did, that he was not proud off, But he was trying to change that. He had got away from that group and opened a club.
He kept himself to himself, only letting himself have fun with one night stands that was until he met Rory and everything change. King tried to get Rory attention and to have that one night of fun but he was having none of it. But that only making him want him more but he’s made himself a promise that he would never put anyone’s life at danger and if he was to have somebody in his life that’s what would happen because he never knew when trouble was coming back his way.
Rory could not believe how insanely sexy King was but things from his past made him stay away. He didn’t want to have violence in his life, he had heard rumours about King and as much as his body was fighting him to have some fun with King Rory knew he had to be strong. That wasn’t until something happened and these two just could not keep their hands off each other one more second. Would King can get up and leave Rory after he’d had his fun or would he be unable to leave him like you normally would???
There is so much more to the story than just a romance it’s about overcoming and learning to adapt to be the person that you want to be. I just fell for these two I just found them totally amazing. The story was quite fast paced there was always something going on to keep you hooked. But what truly hurts got me excited for the next book was the last sentence it just made me smile and I cannot wait to see where Aiden Bates & Ali Luda are going to take us next!!!!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There is something extraordinarily special about King and Rory and their relationship. King didn’t have the best start in life and was quite violent and there was stuff that he did, that he was not proud off, But he was trying to change that. He had got away from that group and opened a club.
He kept himself to himself, only letting himself have fun with one night stands that was until he met Rory and everything change. King tried to get Rory attention and to have that one night of fun but he was having none of it. But that only making him want him more but he’s made himself a promise that he would never put anyone’s life at danger and if he was to have somebody in his life that’s what would happen because he never knew when trouble was coming back his way.
Rory could not believe how insanely sexy King was but things from his past made him stay away. He didn’t want to have violence in his life, he had heard rumours about King and as much as his body was fighting him to have some fun with King Rory knew he had to be strong. That wasn’t until something happened and these two just could not keep their hands off each other one more second. Would King can get up and leave Rory after he’d had his fun or would he be unable to leave him like you normally would???
There is so much more to the story than just a romance it’s about overcoming and learning to adapt to be the person that you want to be. I just fell for these two I just found them totally amazing. The story was quite fast paced there was always something going on to keep you hooked. But what truly hurts got me excited for the next book was the last sentence it just made me smile and I cannot wait to see where Aiden Bates & Ali Luda are going to take us next!!!!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 15, 2021
**I received a digital arc for an honest review**
King’s Gambit by Aiden Bates and Ali Lyda is the first book in the new Road to Redemption series. King has been trying to put his past behind him by opening his club and running it completely above board. Rory has been keeping himself so busy trying to earn enough at King’s Gambit to open his own yoga studio that he only allows himself to enjoy looking but not touching his boss. King’s past rears its ugly head and unfortunately drags Rory in as well. Rory initially fights the protection that King forces upon him but finds the lines with his boss blurring. They allow themselves to become physically involved but can they really keep emotions out of the deal, especially when things turn violent?
King’s history with the Jackals gang is not something he will ever be able to outrun. He is only able to control the narrative by being scarier than the gang. He loses control of that carefully managed existence when he finally manages to get Rory in bed. Rory is this firecracker who gives it back to King in a way no one else does. They complement each other physically and once they open up to each other their emotional connection is so strong even if King continues to fight it.
“He’d do anything to keep the club safe - anything to keep me safe.”
Rory has found a family and home working at King’s Gambit while working towards the dream of opening his own yoga studio. He finds the calm in yoga that his past never provided so when King comes in and throws him off balance he immediately starts putting up boundaries so he doesn’t get too attached to King. That fails to keep them from not only lighting up the mattress but also growing attached outside of the bedroom. But the past is still there and when faced with it, Rory struggles to put together the man he is falling with and the violent person who even gangs are afraid of.
“Safe. But now it made something deep inside me ache. I wanted him - all of him. In every way.”
King and Rory have known each other for a year and the sexual tension has been building. It finally boils over when Rory’s safety is threatened and King allows all his protective nature free. The past is extremely important to both characters and finding a way to put it behind them to build a future together leads to some trip ups along the way. With a great supporting crew of family and employees at the King’s Gambit we are in for an exciting series.
4 stars for the start of a white hot relationship where the past is never truly left in the past.
King’s Gambit by Aiden Bates and Ali Lyda is the first book in the new Road to Redemption series. King has been trying to put his past behind him by opening his club and running it completely above board. Rory has been keeping himself so busy trying to earn enough at King’s Gambit to open his own yoga studio that he only allows himself to enjoy looking but not touching his boss. King’s past rears its ugly head and unfortunately drags Rory in as well. Rory initially fights the protection that King forces upon him but finds the lines with his boss blurring. They allow themselves to become physically involved but can they really keep emotions out of the deal, especially when things turn violent?
King’s history with the Jackals gang is not something he will ever be able to outrun. He is only able to control the narrative by being scarier than the gang. He loses control of that carefully managed existence when he finally manages to get Rory in bed. Rory is this firecracker who gives it back to King in a way no one else does. They complement each other physically and once they open up to each other their emotional connection is so strong even if King continues to fight it.
“He’d do anything to keep the club safe - anything to keep me safe.”
Rory has found a family and home working at King’s Gambit while working towards the dream of opening his own yoga studio. He finds the calm in yoga that his past never provided so when King comes in and throws him off balance he immediately starts putting up boundaries so he doesn’t get too attached to King. That fails to keep them from not only lighting up the mattress but also growing attached outside of the bedroom. But the past is still there and when faced with it, Rory struggles to put together the man he is falling with and the violent person who even gangs are afraid of.
“Safe. But now it made something deep inside me ache. I wanted him - all of him. In every way.”
King and Rory have known each other for a year and the sexual tension has been building. It finally boils over when Rory’s safety is threatened and King allows all his protective nature free. The past is extremely important to both characters and finding a way to put it behind them to build a future together leads to some trip ups along the way. With a great supporting crew of family and employees at the King’s Gambit we are in for an exciting series.
4 stars for the start of a white hot relationship where the past is never truly left in the past.
April 18, 2021
King, his brother Elias and Rhys used to be part of the Jackals gang. They hated life in the club and the things they were forced to do. King did his best to protect his younger brother Elias but when the head of the gang beat Elias up for being gay King has had enough. He goes to war with the Jackals and causes lots of havoc before he and his friends leave. Now King owns a bar called the King's Gambit which has becaome very successful. King keeps his customers and employees safe and makes sure his club has no drugs. Even with how much he has turned around his life, King still feels that having a relationship with any one is just too dangerous. Even though he knows he should keep away, King can't keep his eyes off his best bartender Rory. He offered to have a one night stand with him but Rory shot him down both times. His friends keep telling King to go after Rory and actually try a relationship but he keeps denying his feeling until Rory finds himself in danger.
Rory is a part-time yoga instructor and part-time bartender. He grew up constantly moving with his mom and finds it hard to let anyone get close to him. He definitely doesn't want to fall in love because he has a secret. Rory is very attracted to King but King is exactly the type of man Rory has decided to have nothing to do with. His former gang connections and and violence is a big turn-off for Rory. Then he startes to get to know King a lot better and he is more than his past. When a stranger threatens Rory, King goes way out of his way to keep Rory safe. King will do anything to keep Rory safe even if it means giving him up.
I really enjoyed this book. I received a copy of this story and this is my honest review.
Rory is a part-time yoga instructor and part-time bartender. He grew up constantly moving with his mom and finds it hard to let anyone get close to him. He definitely doesn't want to fall in love because he has a secret. Rory is very attracted to King but King is exactly the type of man Rory has decided to have nothing to do with. His former gang connections and and violence is a big turn-off for Rory. Then he startes to get to know King a lot better and he is more than his past. When a stranger threatens Rory, King goes way out of his way to keep Rory safe. King will do anything to keep Rory safe even if it means giving him up.
I really enjoyed this book. I received a copy of this story and this is my honest review.
April 6, 2021
King left behind a trail of destruction when he took his brother and best friend out of the violence of his brother's criminal organization. He will do what it takes to protect those he has claimed from the nightmare of his former life. His club, King's Gambit, shelters his inner circle, and the ginger haired bartender has a place in that protection even if he wants to keep his former life from touching Rory. His single mother and he are alone in America and Rory thinks that is the best for them. The attraction he feels for King is tainted by the rumors King left behind a trail of destruction when he took his brother and best friend out of the violence of his brother's criminal organization. He will do what it takes to protect those he has claimed from the nightmare of his former life. His club, King's Gambit, shelters his inner circle, and the ginger haired bartender has a place in that protection even if he wants to keep his former life from touching Rory. His single mother and he are alone in America and Rory thinks that is the best for them. The attraction he feels for King is tainted by the rumors about King but his fascination will not fade. This is a story about two men who have both something to hide and something to protect; but also have something to give each other if only they will admit that their attraction is more than just lust. The characters in this book are fully developed and engaging to the reader. The action is decisive and appropriate to the plot which has it's twists and surprises. This looks to be another winning series from this author. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews