Wicked

Broken Chains MC #4

by E.M. Lindsey

Hawke doesn’t talk about his past—and it’s not because he has a stutter that rarely lets him speak more than three words at a time. The shadows of what was haunt his every waking hour, but the Broken Chains MC have been a sanctuary he never expected.

And Hawke is the sort of man who knows better than to cross lines, especially when it comes the safety of his brothers. But when Jax, the VP of the Cobras, looks at him like he’s a whole man instead of shattered pieces of the person he was before he left his home behind, he can’t help but want to be just a little bit wicked.

Broken Chains MC is a Motorcycle Club Romance series with dubious morality, mild violence, and happily ever afters.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Contemporary, LGBT, Disability, Ebooks, Found Family

196 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 2, 2021

About the author

E.M. Lindsey is the author of MM contemporary romance. She presently lives and works in the southeastern United States.

EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.

Reviews

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/8/2022)! 🎁

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4 stars

Wicked is the fourth book in E.M. Lindsey’s Broken Chains series. While each book features a different couple, the series has an overarching arc with regards to the threat from Hydra. The story also has a slightly overlapping timeline with the previous book, as we learn about the attack on Jax and Hawke in the epilogue of Broken Wings. So while the story can stand alone from romantic end and there is background given on past events, overall I think the series is richer if you read all the books in order, as the characters do appear within each other’s books and the overarching storyline continues from one book to the next.

This story definitely has a darker and more intense tone than the first three in the series. I think this is in part because it’s the first to feature two members of motorcycle clubs as the heroes, and in part because of the type of men that Jax and Hawke are.

Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars - I really wanted to like this more. I’m not a huge fan of this authors writing, I think I like the ideas behind it but not the execution. I have kept reading this series hoping it’ll start to wow me and despite liking this couple more than others it still just didn’t grab me.

I do like how the main story is continuing through the books and gaining steam. The characters aren’t conventional which I like and their romances aren’t too sweet. The character of Hawke felt very different to what he was like in the previous books. I enjoyed this couple the most and think they had the most chemistry but still found myself skimming a bit at times and not full engaged in the story. As the final book isn’t out yet im undecided if I’ll come back for it.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought Jude & Kicks were my fav but Hawke and Jax probably are currently #1 besides smokey and eliah 😂 I loved this book EM Lindsey is literally one of my favorites their representation and way of writing said representation makes it feel more real world then totally fiction. But hawke trauma was so sad, I wish he had a moment where his brother looked him up to i think thats the saddest part go to jail defending your little brother to only never ever speak to him again (my heart 🥹)

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark but enjoyable

I don’t know if it’s weird to describe this series as fun to read but it kind of is for me, even though it’s pretty dark. It’s also found family and morally grey. Hawke was definitely intriguing in prior books and the dynamic with Jax is well done.

And I’m surprised by the book 5 couple, so that’s something to look forward to.

[Vfields Don't touch my happy! · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started to read this series when it was first released and kind of lost it. The moment I picked this up I fell right back into it. That’s the best compliment. I enjoyed it. These are not the warm and fuzzy characters of Lindsey‘s other series, these are hard-core dudes. It worked.
It was on the short side.

[Jennifer Reilley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg this book is now my favorite of the series. I absolutely loved these guys and their journey.
I hated seeing some trouble makers in this book but that was to be expected seeing what’s been happening to the Chains club since book one. I can’t wait for the next already

[Vicki · Rating 3 out of 5]

I find this series so repetitive, maybe it's because of the continuing storyline but it just feels like the same story in each book. I will say I was more engaged in the beginning of this one and then it started dragging.

[Caitlin]

DNF at this point in time! Not really in the mood for MC clubs atm. I really enjoyed the first three though so I’ll come back to this at some point.

[allison · Rating 3 out of 5]

songs for this book:

No Good by Kaleo

Scorpio Rising by Paris Jackson

And You Evade Him/Born in the Blood by Joshua Burnside

And weirdly enough Vegas by Doja Cat ???

[Never Stop Reading or Dreaming · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one’s a little weird for me to review. Hawk was the book I wanted to read all along and what brought me to book one. The thing is, Hawk was nothing like I thought he was going to be. Even through the 3 other books. But that okay.

What gets me is the huge chunks missing in all the books. I get they are intertwined but things just happen and we’re expected to believe they happened of page and yet it was that’s persons POV at the time. I’m not the biggest fan of the authors writing but hey I’ve read four books now and I plan on reading Nate and Rory’s story.

Returned to KU

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Suspenseful

I'm so into this series and want the conclusion but also don't want it to end. Hawke and Jax were smoking hot in this book as the Broken Chains continue to hunt Hydra down. This series needs to be read in order for maximum pleasure. Hawke can take a beating but he keeps on bouncing back and Jax is there to catch him. I loved their raw animalistic sex. I highly recommend this series and can't wait for book 5.

[Antisocial Recluse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Still gritty

This moved the story arc forward a little but mostly people got beaten up a lot. Haven’t checked on whose book is next. Good series.

[Mundane · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 stars 🌟

DNF'ed at 70%

[Littlebookterror · Rating 3 out of 5]

I kind of missed the memo where those two were involved enough to warrant all that happens in the second act. I really liked Hawke in the previous books but this did not really deliver.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars!

I liked Hawke and Jax, but again I just find these books to be a bit too wordy as far as monologue goes. Makes me skim a decent amount.

[J.L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lindsey breaks the subtle “opposites attract” trend they have been weaving into this series by instead throwing together two men involved in the motorcycle club lifestyle. Though they are from different clubs, Lindsey also does not take the expected route of star-crossed lovers. Hawke and Jax share a hookup and never look for more. Instead, more sneaks up on them when their compatibility (in multiple ways) is too strong to ignore.

The “dubious morality” tag for this series is especially relevant to this book and these particular characters. Their love story is not sunshine and rainbows, but a shared bit of darkness that each man recognizes in the other. It felt like this book focuses more on the external plot, but that is possibly because both men are so involved in aspects of it rather than one being drawn into events outside of his control. This is far from a complaint, and definitely made the book feel much longer than it was as events wove between their more private encounters (also not a complaint).

Lindsey always provides resolutions that are unexpected, yet absolutely perfect for the characters involved. Jax especially experiences upheaval in his life along his journey to Hawke in this story, but it was a long time in coming. Where he finds himself at the end isn’t a neat happily ever after, but this is a world that doesn’t get those. However, I know that these men will continue to be side-by-side even as they walk slightly different paths. Since I binge-read this entire series in a single weekend, I’m more than looking forward to the finale, especially if it means glimpses of the men I’ve come to adore throughout.

[Ashley (Red-Haired Ash Reads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Series: Broken Chains MC #4
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it

Hawke has been a character that I have wanted to know more about from the beginning of this series. He has a speech impairment and usually uses sign language with the other guys. While he is still a quiet one, it was nice to get to know him and how he came to be a part of the Broken Chains. His past was heartbreaking but I appreciate that he fought to stand on his own and be self-sufficient before he became a part of the Broken Chains. Hawke was a man who isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty but prefers peace and quiet. I liked him a lot.

Jax is the VP of the Cobras. He and Hawke instantly hit it off and want each other but being rival MCs means that isn’t happening. Jax was a man who has been going with the flow for so long that he doesn’t realize how bad things have gotten. The situation with Hydra has opened his eyes and made him realize how his Prez and chapter have failed their brothers. It may be a bit late for Jax, but he does realize his mistakes and break away from the Cobras because of it.

Like I said, Hawke and Jax may be from two different MCs but that doesn’t stop them from finding sanctuary in each other's arms. Their relationship was intense, emotional, and really steamy. Overall, this was another great addition to this series and I can’t wait to see how it all ends in the next one.

Trigger Warnings: physical violence; abusive and neglectful parents; drug and alcohol use; homophobia; motorcycle crash; gun violence;

You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.

[Heather Duff · Rating 5 out of 5]

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The darkest of the books so far, and I loved it. Jax and Hawke are both bikers from different clubs with a common enemy. These two know the murkiness that are Motorcycle clubs, and neither are unfamiliar with their violence.

Their connection was intense and rough. It was totally captivating, and damn they were hot together. Totally my thing. But they also had some really wonderful sweet and domestic moments. Hurt/comfort at it’s best really.

Not to mention that things really heat up on the club business front, and it was great to see them get to exact some MC justice and after all the blows they’ve had.

I’m dying for the final book to see them take down Hydra, and of course to see everyone’s favourite brother, Rory, get his HEA.

4.5 dark and stormy stars

[Canadian Girl Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒈𝒂𝒛𝒆𝒔 𝒎𝒆𝒕, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑱𝒂𝒙 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒆𝒆 𝒊𝒇 𝑯𝒂𝒘𝒌𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒐𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆. "𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒎𝒆, 𝑻𝒊𝒈𝒆𝒓?"
𝑯𝒂𝒘𝒌𝒆 𝒏𝒐𝒅𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑱𝒂𝒙 𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒕 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒄𝒓𝒂𝒔𝒉 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓.

WICKED by E.M. Lindsey is the fourth book in the Broken Chains MC series and is Hawke and Jax's story.

Hawke and Jax are from different MC's but that doesn't deter their attraction to each other. As things begin to heat up between them, Jax will have to decide between his MC or Hawke.

Hawke and Jax's story is a good continuation of the Broken Chains MC series and a good lead into the next book. I love how Jax helps Hawke realize that he is more than his past made him feel like he was.

I am excited to see what happens next in this series. Although the Broken Chains books can standalone, I highly recommend reading the series in order for more enjoyment.

John Solo did a really good job of giving a voice to Hawke and Jax and bringing their story to life.

4 Maple Leafs for WICKED which contains mm, mc, dark, disability, and dual third-person point of view.



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[Golden Child · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hawke & Jax: From the outside looking in, these two didn't seem like they would have much of a chance together. Broken beginnings, rival clubs and a war coming seemed like obstacles they wouldn't be able to overcome. Circumstances with Hydra put into motion the meeting that would have Hawke and Jax realize their attraction to each other. They acted on it and although neither was a guy who would go for seconds, both wanted it. Being able to communicate with Jax made Hawke feel seen. He knew the others did their best but to have someone actually hear him was a gift. Jax knew his time with the Cobras was limited, whether it was Hydra or his father remained to be seen. Jax had a lot to consider but in the end, he knew he wanted something better, solid and he could find that with Hawke and the Chains even if he did go nomad, he would have a home base with loyalty. It's been awhile since I read the first 2 books and I just realized I missed book 3, going back to read Kicks story now.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has overtaken Backfire as my favourite Broken Chains book. Jax and Hawke are electric together and there's a darker, grimier, expectant but more hopeful feel to the writing as we head toward the final confrontation with Hyrda, which I'm assuming will be in the next book.

This story is kinkier than the previous three books, as Jax and Hawke enjoy pain with their physical relationship, and the way it's written feels so true to the characters that I can't imagine things unfolding any other way.

It's beautifully executed, with all the heart and soul that I expect from this author.

You definitely need to read this series in order, as there's a series plot.

I received a copy of this book from the author and have chosen to leave an honest review.

[Tame · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold on tight!

This book, the fourth in the series, was much darker and dirtier than the previous 3, as it showed more of the mindset of the MC clubs, their hierarchy, and degrees of loyalty. It showed two men from clubs who failed to unite against a shared enemy, how deep disloyalty runs, and what might a person do to sacrifice for love, for loyalty, for family. The BDSM elements were present to a degree, which is not my normal type of reading I do, but this author wrote it in such a way, I kept reading and enjoying it. Jax & Hawke were 2 characters whose personalities and presence lasted long after I read it the first time.

The ARC of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars ~ Two men in opposing clubs, each with enough baggage to load down a freight train, and a club war brewing are at the heart of this fourth installment in E.M. Lindsey’s ‘Broken Chains MC’ series.

“There was never a moment he regretted his decision to join, but he was glad the club hadn’t saved him the way it had saved Kicks or Gunner. It meant the world to him that he’d picked himself up and survived before Smokey had walked into his shop. That told him if everything crumbled around him again, it wouldn’t matter. He’d be able to move on.” ~ Hawke

A common theme running through the men in these stories is their horrific childhoods, and Hawke and Jax are no different. Hawke went to prison at a young age after beating his crackhead mom’s boyfriend half to death for daring to lay hands on Hawke’s little brother. While in prison he managed to piss off a very violent man who almost killed Hawke, but instead left him with a severe stutter and a few other neurological issues. Jax’s father is the President of the Cobras and not what one could even remotely call a halfway decent individual. Jax may be the VP but it’s pretty much only because his father figures anyone else would take every opportunity to kill him and take over. Jax grew up in this life and the only kindness he’s ever seen is from his grandmother. Two men. Lots of baggage.


Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews

[E.Muddle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my new favourite from the Broken Chains MC series! Jax and Hawke are magnetic, and completely hooked me on their relationship. They each know what they need and it’s clear they’ll find it together. They both enjoy an element of pain to their physical relationship, and the way it was written feels genuine and adds a deeper layer to their connection. As for the story and all the other characters, I am very much anticipating their big confrontation with Hydra. It’s going to be dark, gritty, and yet so incredibly hopeful and heart-warming.

[Phoenix13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Passionate with a hint of perfect darkness

This is an excellent addition to the series. Hawks has been an intriguing character since the first and I’m glad to get a bit of his history and see him add to his future. There was a tangible, fierce connection between Hawke & Jax that was fiery in more ways than one. I also liked seeing a bit of other Chains members and the progression of the series arc too.
If you like a bit of rough and tumble, danger and intrigue with your romance this is definitely recommended.

[Aethena Drake · Rating 4 out of 5]

We finally get Hawke's story and it is just as tragic as all the other members of the Broken Chains MC. It takes some very creative writing to get me interested in stories about motorcycle clubs I grew up in an area where they were the source of crime, and my encounters with MC members were rarely pleasant. E.M. Lindsey has an interesting way of showing how the Broken Chains MC is turning negativily viewed counterculture into a positive way of life. I have been pulled into the story by the characters and the narration. I am very interested in seeing how this ends.

[Neka · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm sure that my take on this is because this isn't entirely my genre, but.

But I had no interest in a book about someone who's willing to beat up other people. I get that he's injured by both a terrible beating and by his bad childhood, but it's just not my bag.

Also, the story took forever to get started, and when the two mains met, they were instantly in each other's pants. Maybe this is how gay biker gang guys do it, I don't know. But I wanted an emotional connection and it didn't look like that was going to happen any time soon.

YMMV, of course.

[Janet Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wicked is my favorite to date of the Chains MC. Jax and Hawke are working to take down Hydra. The story is so much grittier and rawer than the previous story’s in the series but it also has a touch of kink. Hawke and Jax were perfect for one another. I love that the characters feel so real! Overall this was a really phenomenal story, really well written, highly recommend. I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.

[ManyHatMomma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gritty, raw, not quite perfect but just right

Two hard, harsh men from different MC’s on the cusp of war. Raw, gritty, no sweetness or angst. Bad things happen to the main characters and the bad guy stirs up crap. Again. Characters stay true to their characteristics all the way through the story and don’t change or get soft ‘for love’. A fantastic ending that is just waiting for the next in the series to bring the series to a close.