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Dare to Try #1
Dare You
From Ella Frank’s Prime Time series and Brooke Blaine’s South Haven series comes an explosive spin-off of both worlds.
Sebastian “Bash” Vogel, the magnetic, cross-dressing CEO of AnaVoge, has long been a lone island when it comes to his personal life. Self-assured and playful, he’s never left wanting for suitors—but Bash isn’t looking for something permanent. He’s more than fulfilled with his company and his closest friends, and no one is going to shake up the status quo.
That is, until he’s thrown over the shoulder of one of Chicago’s finest and hauled out of a burning building.
Kieran Bailey, a sexy, hardworking lieutenant at Station 73, has been reaping the rewards of being crowned the city’s hottest fireman, which his crew never lets him forget. So many ladies, so little time. So when he rescues the latest damsel in distress, no one is more shocked than him to realize he’s played prince charming to another … prince.
But Bash isn’t like anyone Kieran has ever met, and soon his world is turned upside down as he becomes more intrigued by the enigmatic man that he can’t stay away from.
They’re from two different worlds. This could never work. But what if … they dared to try?
Dare You is book one of the Dare to Try trilogy, an M/M romance, which must be read in order. Prior reading is not required, but is always a fantastic idea for maximum enjoyment.
Sebastian “Bash” Vogel, the magnetic, cross-dressing CEO of AnaVoge, has long been a lone island when it comes to his personal life. Self-assured and playful, he’s never left wanting for suitors—but Bash isn’t looking for something permanent. He’s more than fulfilled with his company and his closest friends, and no one is going to shake up the status quo.
That is, until he’s thrown over the shoulder of one of Chicago’s finest and hauled out of a burning building.
Kieran Bailey, a sexy, hardworking lieutenant at Station 73, has been reaping the rewards of being crowned the city’s hottest fireman, which his crew never lets him forget. So many ladies, so little time. So when he rescues the latest damsel in distress, no one is more shocked than him to realize he’s played prince charming to another … prince.
But Bash isn’t like anyone Kieran has ever met, and soon his world is turned upside down as he becomes more intrigued by the enigmatic man that he can’t stay away from.
They’re from two different worlds. This could never work. But what if … they dared to try?
Dare You is book one of the Dare to Try trilogy, an M/M romance, which must be read in order. Prior reading is not required, but is always a fantastic idea for maximum enjoyment.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 27, 2021
458 people are currently reading
2876 people want to read
About the author
Ella Frank
96 books8,782 followersElla Frank is the USA Today Bestselling Author of the Temptation series, including Try, Take, and Trust and is the co-author of the fan-favorite Preslocke series. Her Prime Time series has been praised as “highly entertaining!” and “sexy as hell!”
A life-long fan of the romance genre, Ella writes contemporary and erotic fiction. Some of her favorite authors include Tiffany Reisz, Kresley Cole, Riley Hart, J.R. Ward, Erika Wilde, Gena Showalter, and Carly Philips.Ella is represented by:
Kimberly Brower
Brower Literary & Management
kimberly@browerliterary.com
A life-long fan of the romance genre, Ella writes contemporary and erotic fiction. Some of her favorite authors include Tiffany Reisz, Kresley Cole, Riley Hart, J.R. Ward, Erika Wilde, Gena Showalter, and Carly Philips.Ella is represented by:
Kimberly Brower
Brower Literary & Management
kimberly@browerliterary.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 633 reviews
July 26, 2021
4.5 stars
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
Also...
I read this in one sitting while suffering a summer flu and it was the best kind of distraction.
Ella and Brooke writing a crossover...YES PLEASE!
This trilogy features Bash from Brooke's South Haven, and Kieran from the Chicago Ella-verse.
Let's start with what I loved:
1. The Characters:
Bash, the enigmatic femme CEO, who wears Valentino dresses as good as he wears designers suits and killer Louboutins. He is unapologetically himself, sassy and flirty and sexy....and he knows it. #ThisIsMe
Kieran, the hot firefighter, is straight...#YeahRight and has never looked twice at a man even though both of his brothers are gay. He's brave and sweet and a genuine good guy who never saw Bash coming. #NeverStoodAChance
2. The Plot:
Kieran swept Bash off his feet...literally, and saved him from a fire. from there a budding friendship starts ad the two men hang out, flirt and have fun together until the flirting becomes too much, and the UST turns into something more. Both men start off the friendship with no other agenda... even for Bash. He knows that Kieran is straight, and a little flirting never hurt anyone. Kieran on the other hand enjoys Bash's company and likes hanging out, and then slowly some confusing feelings start to surface. #JustBeWithYou
3. The Romance:
It's a friends to lovers trope which was done extremely well. I loved how they hung out, how Kieran wanted to impress Bash and made an effort. I also loved their flirting, and how they both took it good-naturedly. There are no ILYs, which I LOVED, because it wouldn't have fit here. It would have been too insta-lovey. There is attraction and lust and a simple enjoyment in each other's company. #SlowlyButSurely
4. Steam-o-meter: This book is as steamy as this gif...
GAWD and they didn't even have full-on sex...which I also appreciated, since Kieran is a gay virgin and is having his first gay sexual experience with Bash. There is kissing, and groping and frotting and its was #HawtAF
5. Angst-o-meter:
Basically no angst until the very end. It's sweet, flirty and a #FeelGoodBook
6. The HEA:
Not here it isn't. In true #EllaFashion..... it's a CLIFFY. Sigh. But I read it knowing to expect it so it made it better? Maybe? Probably? #TooGoodToBeTrue
Niggles:
I want the rest of the trilogy right now. Please and Thank you!
Seriously though..
A bit of discrepancies in how tall Bash is but that's it.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
Also...
I read this in one sitting while suffering a summer flu and it was the best kind of distraction.
Ella and Brooke writing a crossover...YES PLEASE!
This trilogy features Bash from Brooke's South Haven, and Kieran from the Chicago Ella-verse.
Let's start with what I loved:
1. The Characters:
Bash, the enigmatic femme CEO, who wears Valentino dresses as good as he wears designers suits and killer Louboutins. He is unapologetically himself, sassy and flirty and sexy....and he knows it. #ThisIsMe
Kieran, the hot firefighter, is straight...#YeahRight and has never looked twice at a man even though both of his brothers are gay. He's brave and sweet and a genuine good guy who never saw Bash coming. #NeverStoodAChance
2. The Plot:
Kieran swept Bash off his feet...literally, and saved him from a fire. from there a budding friendship starts ad the two men hang out, flirt and have fun together until the flirting becomes too much, and the UST turns into something more. Both men start off the friendship with no other agenda... even for Bash. He knows that Kieran is straight, and a little flirting never hurt anyone. Kieran on the other hand enjoys Bash's company and likes hanging out, and then slowly some confusing feelings start to surface. #JustBeWithYou
3. The Romance:
It's a friends to lovers trope which was done extremely well. I loved how they hung out, how Kieran wanted to impress Bash and made an effort. I also loved their flirting, and how they both took it good-naturedly. There are no ILYs, which I LOVED, because it wouldn't have fit here. It would have been too insta-lovey. There is attraction and lust and a simple enjoyment in each other's company. #SlowlyButSurely
4. Steam-o-meter: This book is as steamy as this gif...
GAWD and they didn't even have full-on sex...which I also appreciated, since Kieran is a gay virgin and is having his first gay sexual experience with Bash. There is kissing, and groping and frotting and its was #HawtAF
5. Angst-o-meter:
Basically no angst until the very end. It's sweet, flirty and a #FeelGoodBook
6. The HEA:
Not here it isn't. In true #EllaFashion..... it's a CLIFFY. Sigh. But I read it knowing to expect it so it made it better? Maybe? Probably? #TooGoodToBeTrue
Niggles:
I want the rest of the trilogy right now. Please and Thank you!
Seriously though..
A bit of discrepancies in how tall Bash is but that's it.
October 4, 2021
✨
3.5 stars rounded down.
✨
i enjoyed this! there wasn’t much actual plot or anything, but the tension and the buildup between the mcs was delicious and i definitely wanted to keep reading once i started. i love both of the mcs and i really hope we get to see them actually communicate in the next book lol, not just flirt and bump & grind repeatedly.
i’m definitely glad i waited for all three books to come out before starting this series, because that cliffhanger (which, of course, i knew was coming, since i’m already familiar with the way these authors like to leave you hanging lmao) would have annoyed me like crazy.
as per usual, we got a lot of appearances of characters from the other books in this same universe. obviously, i’m always happy to see Tate, Logan and Robbie, but the rest i didn’t care that much about tbh.
i might write an actual full review after i finish the whole series, but for now i’m moving on to book 2!
i enjoyed this! there wasn’t much actual plot or anything, but the tension and the buildup between the mcs was delicious and i definitely wanted to keep reading once i started. i love both of the mcs and i really hope we get to see them actually communicate in the next book lol, not just flirt and bump & grind repeatedly.
i’m definitely glad i waited for all three books to come out before starting this series, because that cliffhanger (which, of course, i knew was coming, since i’m already familiar with the way these authors like to leave you hanging lmao) would have annoyed me like crazy.
as per usual, we got a lot of appearances of characters from the other books in this same universe. obviously, i’m always happy to see Tate, Logan and Robbie, but the rest i didn’t care that much about tbh.
i might write an actual full review after i finish the whole series, but for now i’m moving on to book 2!
July 26, 2021
*** I received an eArc from the author in exchange for an honest review.***
Bash and Kieran!!!! I was so pleasantly surprised while reading this story. Initially, I was curious about the overall dynamic between Bash and Kieran considering Kieran is the token straight Bailey brother and Bash is confident and authentically himself. This friend to lovers and the bisexual awakening story was perfectly captured through humor, honesty, and sizzling chemistry.
The inciting incident where Kieran and Bash meet was dramatic, intense, and thrilling. From that moment are both Kieran and Bash are curiously drawn to one another and their relationship builds from there.
One of my favorite aspects of this story is the contrasting personality traits between Bash and Kieran. Bash is such a lovable character, with his sassy personality being a great balance to Kieran's no-nonsense and take-charge personality.
One of the stand out aspects of this first installment for the trilogy is the slow-burn nature of Bash and Kieran's relationship, which begins as a friendship and grows from there. I love how utterly smitten Bash is with the rugged firefighter and Kieran cannot pinpoint why exactly he is so drawn and enamored with Bash's direct and enigmatic personality.
I cannot wait for the next installment!!!
Bash and Kieran!!!! I was so pleasantly surprised while reading this story. Initially, I was curious about the overall dynamic between Bash and Kieran considering Kieran is the token straight Bailey brother and Bash is confident and authentically himself. This friend to lovers and the bisexual awakening story was perfectly captured through humor, honesty, and sizzling chemistry.
The inciting incident where Kieran and Bash meet was dramatic, intense, and thrilling. From that moment are both Kieran and Bash are curiously drawn to one another and their relationship builds from there.
One of my favorite aspects of this story is the contrasting personality traits between Bash and Kieran. Bash is such a lovable character, with his sassy personality being a great balance to Kieran's no-nonsense and take-charge personality.
One of the stand out aspects of this first installment for the trilogy is the slow-burn nature of Bash and Kieran's relationship, which begins as a friendship and grows from there. I love how utterly smitten Bash is with the rugged firefighter and Kieran cannot pinpoint why exactly he is so drawn and enamored with Bash's direct and enigmatic personality.
I cannot wait for the next installment!!!
Read
August 3, 2021Dare me to write a review that doesn’t ramble and go off on a dozen different tangents and really doesn’t say anything about the actual book itself? 🤣
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I want to preface this by saying that I am not a diehard Ella fan. I never finished the Temptation series. (Don’t throw things at me!) I couldn’t get into the Fallen Angel ones either. And I never finished the Prime Time books. I can’t speak too much about Brooke Blaine because I think the only ones I’ve tried with her as a co-writer until now was Halo .
Why would I read this then, knowing all of the above? I’m so happy you asked. 😂 I read it because, despite all of the above, I HAVE had some Ella successes! I overall really enjoyed her Confessions series. I still drool over Priest and Henri in their respective books. DROOL. 😍 So I guess I’ll never stop checking in with Ella every so often, hoping for another Priest or Henri. But I didn’t find them in this one.
(I was also having a moment of weakness. Tean and Jem in my Ashe book were having STRUGGLES. And I needed to put them in opposite corners and step away from them for a minute till they got their acts together.)
The thing that I’ve noticed with her books, even the ones I’ve liked, is that there is a TON of filler. Many books with not much happening. (Kind of like this review.)They could easily be condensed and, in my opinion, would work better that way. With the Confessions series, I noticed this. But I loved the characters so much that I didn’t mind too much most of the time. (Plus, remember the Priest and Henri DROOL. 😛 I was helpless.)
Here, I was very aware of the filler. I also wasn’t connecting or drooling over either of the characters. Which is a shame because I liked the glimpses I got of Kieran in Bailey . Here, he just felt so…blah. Bash was ok. But I found myself not buying their connection. It all was sort of lackluster. No swoons. No feels. I skimmed parts. 🤷🏻♀️
I won’t be continuing this series. Still, I hesitate to rate it. Because I think a lot of it might be me and not the book. I’m sure it will be a hit with many readers. If you’d like to see a positive, coherent review, check out my friend Layla’s. Yeah I still don’t know how to link people’s reviews. Help me out people! I can BARELY insert gifs! So I’ll ponder that for a while but am leaving it unrated for now.
**Appropriate DT gif to be inserted later. When I can get up off my lazy ass and use my desktop.**
[image error]
I want to preface this by saying that I am not a diehard Ella fan. I never finished the Temptation series. (Don’t throw things at me!) I couldn’t get into the Fallen Angel ones either. And I never finished the Prime Time books. I can’t speak too much about Brooke Blaine because I think the only ones I’ve tried with her as a co-writer until now was Halo .
Why would I read this then, knowing all of the above? I’m so happy you asked. 😂 I read it because, despite all of the above, I HAVE had some Ella successes! I overall really enjoyed her Confessions series. I still drool over Priest and Henri in their respective books. DROOL. 😍 So I guess I’ll never stop checking in with Ella every so often, hoping for another Priest or Henri. But I didn’t find them in this one.
(I was also having a moment of weakness. Tean and Jem in my Ashe book were having STRUGGLES. And I needed to put them in opposite corners and step away from them for a minute till they got their acts together.)
The thing that I’ve noticed with her books, even the ones I’ve liked, is that there is a TON of filler. Many books with not much happening. (Kind of like this review.)They could easily be condensed and, in my opinion, would work better that way. With the Confessions series, I noticed this. But I loved the characters so much that I didn’t mind too much most of the time. (Plus, remember the Priest and Henri DROOL. 😛 I was helpless.)
Here, I was very aware of the filler. I also wasn’t connecting or drooling over either of the characters. Which is a shame because I liked the glimpses I got of Kieran in Bailey . Here, he just felt so…blah. Bash was ok. But I found myself not buying their connection. It all was sort of lackluster. No swoons. No feels. I skimmed parts. 🤷🏻♀️
I won’t be continuing this series. Still, I hesitate to rate it. Because I think a lot of it might be me and not the book. I’m sure it will be a hit with many readers. If you’d like to see a positive, coherent review, check out my friend Layla’s. Yeah I still don’t know how to link people’s reviews. Help me out people! I can BARELY insert gifs! So I’ll ponder that for a while but am leaving it unrated for now.
**Appropriate DT gif to be inserted later. When I can get up off my lazy ass and use my desktop.**
July 30, 2021
"The last thing I wanted was for it to look like I'd walk-of-shamed it out of here."
OH WOW. I was up half the night reading this because I had to finish. It was one of those books 💗💜💙.
Honestly, Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine are one-click authors for me, particularly when they co-author, because you know it's going to be a delight to read and hot AF 😈. Dare You is no exception.
If you've read Ella's Prime Time and Brooke's South Haven series then you will have already met our MCs Bash and Kieran and you'll have a bit of their back stories, which is always great. If not, don't worry, because Dare You works very well as a standalone and you get to know the boys for the first time.
Kieran is a very hot, very straight fireman and one of Chicago's finest. He has two gay siblings and is very comfortable with that.
Bash is an out and proud entrpreneur and business owner, and he loves to dress in expensive, glamourous, gorgeousness on his downtime - Valentino and Louboutin for the win!
Which is how Kieran meets Bash, when he has to carry him out of a burning building, only to find later that his damsel in distress is in fact a prince...
I loved this. It's low angst and slow burn, as Kieran starts to realise he may not be as straight as he'd always thought. There's no insta love, more a gradual friend-to-lovers trope. The steamy scenes are totally steamy🔥🔥🔥 but not completely full on (yet😈) because this is a bi-awakening story, and the characters are keeping it real 💜💗.
Kieran and Bash are totally different but it just works, in an 'opposites attract' kind of way and I fell in love with them; with Kieran's acceptance of himself and his burgeoning feelings for Bash, and with Bash for always being totally true to himself - and for being an outrageous flirt!😍
Dare You is the first book in the #daretotry trilogy so yes, it does end on a bit of a cliff-hanger, but nothing too angsty. That said, I CAN'T WAIT for the next installment in the boys' story💜💗.
Highly recommended.
5 ✨✨✨✨✨.
OH WOW. I was up half the night reading this because I had to finish. It was one of those books 💗💜💙.
Honestly, Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine are one-click authors for me, particularly when they co-author, because you know it's going to be a delight to read and hot AF 😈. Dare You is no exception.
If you've read Ella's Prime Time and Brooke's South Haven series then you will have already met our MCs Bash and Kieran and you'll have a bit of their back stories, which is always great. If not, don't worry, because Dare You works very well as a standalone and you get to know the boys for the first time.
Kieran is a very hot, very straight fireman and one of Chicago's finest. He has two gay siblings and is very comfortable with that.
Bash is an out and proud entrpreneur and business owner, and he loves to dress in expensive, glamourous, gorgeousness on his downtime - Valentino and Louboutin for the win!
Which is how Kieran meets Bash, when he has to carry him out of a burning building, only to find later that his damsel in distress is in fact a prince...
I loved this. It's low angst and slow burn, as Kieran starts to realise he may not be as straight as he'd always thought. There's no insta love, more a gradual friend-to-lovers trope. The steamy scenes are totally steamy🔥🔥🔥 but not completely full on (yet😈) because this is a bi-awakening story, and the characters are keeping it real 💜💗.
Kieran and Bash are totally different but it just works, in an 'opposites attract' kind of way and I fell in love with them; with Kieran's acceptance of himself and his burgeoning feelings for Bash, and with Bash for always being totally true to himself - and for being an outrageous flirt!😍
Dare You is the first book in the #daretotry trilogy so yes, it does end on a bit of a cliff-hanger, but nothing too angsty. That said, I CAN'T WAIT for the next installment in the boys' story💜💗.
Highly recommended.
5 ✨✨✨✨✨.
September 2, 2021
4 Stars
Much to this reader’s delight, Dare You kicks off this latest spin-off series, by regular co-authors Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine, with bundles of character chemistry and plenty of unrestrained heat.
As is Ella’s specialty by this point, Dare You features another deliciously tantalising and emotionally grounded GFY (bi-awakening) romance, this time between (previously) straight man-about-town firefighter, Kieran Bailey, and the fierce, fabulous, and filthy rich tech-giant, Sebastian “Bash” Vogel.
As they go from strangers meeting at the scene of a fire, to tentative and unlikely friends, Kieran and Bash find themselves forming an unexpected bond—one that begins as friendship but quickly builds into an undeniable sexual attraction, once both men acknowledge and eventually act on their sizzling chemistry.
It’s all new and unchartered territory for Kieran, who up until meeting Bash has identified as heterosexual. But he’s nothing if not open-minded, eager to throw caution to the wind to explore his new attraction to Bash, which is a mindset helped along by the fact that both of his older brothers are in relationships with men. It’s new and scary, and potentially life-altering, but it’s also a connection so strong that Kieran can’t walk away without exploring the possibilities with the ever sassy and enticing Bash, and I loved him for it.
I enjoyed these two together, but that is no surprise. Both characters come from previous series, Bash from Brooke’s South Haven series, and Kieran featuring briefly as a secondary character in the Confession series and the Prime Time trilogy, where both his brother’s found love.
To say this is a standalone, even though it’s the first in its own series, rings false to me, as I feel the same impact of these guys (and the people surrounding them in their story) would not be the same had I not been well read with all the other series and characters that came before it. Hell, even Logan and Tate from the Temptation series (and even an unnamed but obvious sighting of Robbie) made a happy appearance that charmed me stupid. So, no, I wouldn’t recommend this be read willy nilly—although you can give it a crack if you’re unwilling/uninterested/simply do not have the time to read 69 other books that come before it in the larger Chicago-verse. (69 is a clear exaggeration but 30 wouldn’t be far off, no joke, the crossovers are endless and I unashamedly love the authors for it).
My only complaint in having these past series join forces here, is that I’m still a bit heartbroken that Bash—who was my favourite South Haven character—didn’t get his own book in the series he was born within. I know I shouldn’t look a gift-horse in the mouth and complain, because, as it turned out, this way he gets three full stories instead of one, but I do miss the setting and the cast, and I’m hoping book two (Dare Me) sees these guys spending some time in Bash’s domain. (Update: the majority of book two is set in South Haven 🙌).
Needless to say, I may have to be restrained until book two is released, as there is no telling what I could do with my pent-up desperation to get my hands on the Bash and Kieran’s next story.
Much to this reader’s delight, Dare You kicks off this latest spin-off series, by regular co-authors Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine, with bundles of character chemistry and plenty of unrestrained heat.
As is Ella’s specialty by this point, Dare You features another deliciously tantalising and emotionally grounded GFY (bi-awakening) romance, this time between (previously) straight man-about-town firefighter, Kieran Bailey, and the fierce, fabulous, and filthy rich tech-giant, Sebastian “Bash” Vogel.
As they go from strangers meeting at the scene of a fire, to tentative and unlikely friends, Kieran and Bash find themselves forming an unexpected bond—one that begins as friendship but quickly builds into an undeniable sexual attraction, once both men acknowledge and eventually act on their sizzling chemistry.
It’s all new and unchartered territory for Kieran, who up until meeting Bash has identified as heterosexual. But he’s nothing if not open-minded, eager to throw caution to the wind to explore his new attraction to Bash, which is a mindset helped along by the fact that both of his older brothers are in relationships with men. It’s new and scary, and potentially life-altering, but it’s also a connection so strong that Kieran can’t walk away without exploring the possibilities with the ever sassy and enticing Bash, and I loved him for it.
I enjoyed these two together, but that is no surprise. Both characters come from previous series, Bash from Brooke’s South Haven series, and Kieran featuring briefly as a secondary character in the Confession series and the Prime Time trilogy, where both his brother’s found love.
To say this is a standalone, even though it’s the first in its own series, rings false to me, as I feel the same impact of these guys (and the people surrounding them in their story) would not be the same had I not been well read with all the other series and characters that came before it. Hell, even Logan and Tate from the Temptation series (and even an unnamed but obvious sighting of Robbie) made a happy appearance that charmed me stupid. So, no, I wouldn’t recommend this be read willy nilly—although you can give it a crack if you’re unwilling/uninterested/simply do not have the time to read 69 other books that come before it in the larger Chicago-verse. (69 is a clear exaggeration but 30 wouldn’t be far off, no joke, the crossovers are endless and I unashamedly love the authors for it).
My only complaint in having these past series join forces here, is that I’m still a bit heartbroken that Bash—who was my favourite South Haven character—didn’t get his own book in the series he was born within. I know I shouldn’t look a gift-horse in the mouth and complain, because, as it turned out, this way he gets three full stories instead of one, but I do miss the setting and the cast, and I’m hoping book two (Dare Me) sees these guys spending some time in Bash’s domain. (Update: the majority of book two is set in South Haven 🙌).
Needless to say, I may have to be restrained until book two is released, as there is no telling what I could do with my pent-up desperation to get my hands on the Bash and Kieran’s next story.
August 2, 2021
i really liked this but at the same time there were parts that frustrated me too. looking forward to the next one!
August 1, 2021
As this is a trilogy, I knew we'd get mini cliffhangers at the end of each book, but even so, this one frustrated me.
Not because it's a cliffhanger, but because of the type of "dramady" plot trope used to create it.
Up until that moment, everything about this book was going beautifully for me and I know it's a personal bugbear not an actual fault 😁
I've been dying for Bash's story for almost two years, I loved the idea of a crossover with Ella's Chicagoverse, Kieran Bailey especially, and everything was working out in a way which felt honest.
The meet cute was fab, Kieran's fascination with Bash was totally believable, his growing attraction coming out of spending time together was absolutely understandable.
They just click from the off, they're comfortable in each other's company and they're funny, flirting and exploring the delights of Chicago as Kieran plays tour guide.
The set up for the first spark between them had me cheering and when the UST finally boils over, it's a visceral connection which scorches the pages.
I know Brooke and Ella will steer the story to a joyous happy ending in the final book, but sometimes I wish I didn't have to suffer through the angsting first!
At least they don't leave us waiting long, book two us out next month and the final part in September 😁
I'm also seriously keen to see what Keiran's going to do to win Bash back round to believing he wasn't just "straight guy experimenting" because he's going to need to be very persuasive.
Our Bash needs someone willing to fight big for him and lay their vulnerability on the cards, so come on Keiran, go fix this!
#ARC kindly received from the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Not because it's a cliffhanger, but because of the type of "dramady" plot trope used to create it.
Up until that moment, everything about this book was going beautifully for me and I know it's a personal bugbear not an actual fault 😁
I've been dying for Bash's story for almost two years, I loved the idea of a crossover with Ella's Chicagoverse, Kieran Bailey especially, and everything was working out in a way which felt honest.
The meet cute was fab, Kieran's fascination with Bash was totally believable, his growing attraction coming out of spending time together was absolutely understandable.
They just click from the off, they're comfortable in each other's company and they're funny, flirting and exploring the delights of Chicago as Kieran plays tour guide.
The set up for the first spark between them had me cheering and when the UST finally boils over, it's a visceral connection which scorches the pages.
I know Brooke and Ella will steer the story to a joyous happy ending in the final book, but sometimes I wish I didn't have to suffer through the angsting first!
At least they don't leave us waiting long, book two us out next month and the final part in September 😁
I'm also seriously keen to see what Keiran's going to do to win Bash back round to believing he wasn't just "straight guy experimenting" because he's going to need to be very persuasive.
Our Bash needs someone willing to fight big for him and lay their vulnerability on the cards, so come on Keiran, go fix this!
#ARC kindly received from the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review.
September 2, 2021
3.5 Stars!
For lack of nothing better to read I picked this one up, (a) knowing it was a 3 book series and (b) knowing all books weren't out.
It's no secret I'm not a super big fan of this duo. But I ended up liking this one okay. More than I expected honestly.
Though the ending was a classic eye-roll inducing move that I've come to expect from my friend Ella.
Yeah, I'll still read the next one.
For lack of nothing better to read I picked this one up, (a) knowing it was a 3 book series and (b) knowing all books weren't out.
It's no secret I'm not a super big fan of this duo. But I ended up liking this one okay. More than I expected honestly.
Though the ending was a classic eye-roll inducing move that I've come to expect from my friend Ella.
Yeah, I'll still read the next one.
October 8, 2021
Finally. Finally, lord, a good book😭.
This one wasn’t like any other mm romance novels I’ve read before. I loved it and I’m relieved now, having read this after a line of shitty reads. Kieran and Bash were Amazinggg together. The book was well-written! I really enjoyed every chapter. The alternate POVs did well for the story too. Such a cute story! Bash flirting at every opportunity he gets was hilarious and funny😂. I’m so glad both I and Kieran warmed up to him pretty soon. That man is a natural charmer, precious too.
Minus one star, because Summer. No significant role up until the last 10%. That’s just plain odd. I get that the story was trying to portray Kieran as the “straight” guy who gets attracted to a gay guy, but is hesitant and does not want to be open about it. But him not telling Summer off or doing nothing in front of Bash while she was all over him(offers of nursing, what?) didn’t sit right with me. He had to have been blind and deaf to not have seen pain on Bash’s face when he came to check up on him.
Anyway, Book 2, I’m on my way!
This one wasn’t like any other mm romance novels I’ve read before. I loved it and I’m relieved now, having read this after a line of shitty reads. Kieran and Bash were Amazinggg together. The book was well-written! I really enjoyed every chapter. The alternate POVs did well for the story too. Such a cute story! Bash flirting at every opportunity he gets was hilarious and funny😂. I’m so glad both I and Kieran warmed up to him pretty soon. That man is a natural charmer, precious too.
Minus one star, because Summer. No significant role up until the last 10%. That’s just plain odd. I get that the story was trying to portray Kieran as the “straight” guy who gets attracted to a gay guy, but is hesitant and does not want to be open about it. But him not telling Summer off or doing nothing in front of Bash while she was all over him(offers of nursing, what?) didn’t sit right with me. He had to have been blind and deaf to not have seen pain on Bash’s face when he came to check up on him.
Anyway, Book 2, I’m on my way!
August 8, 2022
3.5*** stars
My rating would’ve been sooo much better if it wasn’t for one thing I truly despised in this story. But I’ll get to that later.
**********
I dnf’d this book before.
Months ago. I think I was not ready for a character like Sebastian "Bash“ Vogel back then. But now, after I met him (again) in A Little Bit Like Love, as one of Lucas’s best friends, I kinda fell in love with him.
With what I remembered about the story I was suddenly very excited to get back to it and watch him fall for this super hot (and super straight) fire fighter Kieran. I assume sometimes it only takes a little time to appreciate a story or a character. ♡
I had a lot of fun with this first installment in this 3-book-series, though it threw me off a little (as I am not used to stories like this) that the love interest was really THAT straight and reluctant that he needed that much "convincing" to go for the D. So it was certainly a new reading experience for me. Don’t know if I will go for smth like that ever again if I can help it.
But anyhow, I was greatly entertained by Bash alone - his personality, his sass and confidence in being such a colorful and unique character that it was fine for me to wait Kieran out until he "dared to try" *lolll
**********
But what I really did not appreciate was the embarrassment Kieran felt about his attraction to Bash. The confusion I can totally understand and find even relatable for a guy who always identified as solely straight. But the shame he felt for it as if it was something bad and on top of it throwing it at bash like a punch to the gut was something I totally could’ve done without in a love interest and main character in my romance. I mean, his brothers are gay ffs!!
To be honest I was shocked and ashamed for Bash for what happened next. I couldn’t believe he would let that happen. That this proud of himself creature would degrade himself by getting sexually entangled with a man who was so embarrassed by his attraction to and association with a gay man right after their argument about it. I couldn’t really enjoyed it even if it was hot as hell.
And Kieran’s sudden change of mind after drove me even more mad. He not even apologized!
**********
But well, after I swallowed my anger down I took with me for quite a while, the story returned to being very enjoyable for me again. Of course this book ends on a "dramatic" cliff hanger so I’m off to Dare Me to see where this is going.
My rating would’ve been sooo much better if it wasn’t for one thing I truly despised in this story. But I’ll get to that later.
**********
I dnf’d this book before.
Months ago. I think I was not ready for a character like Sebastian "Bash“ Vogel back then. But now, after I met him (again) in A Little Bit Like Love, as one of Lucas’s best friends, I kinda fell in love with him.
With what I remembered about the story I was suddenly very excited to get back to it and watch him fall for this super hot (and super straight) fire fighter Kieran. I assume sometimes it only takes a little time to appreciate a story or a character. ♡
I wasn’t about to leave Chicago feeling anything other than the fabulous human being I knew I was.
I had a lot of fun with this first installment in this 3-book-series, though it threw me off a little (as I am not used to stories like this) that the love interest was really THAT straight and reluctant that he needed that much "convincing" to go for the D. So it was certainly a new reading experience for me. Don’t know if I will go for smth like that ever again if I can help it.
But anyhow, I was greatly entertained by Bash alone - his personality, his sass and confidence in being such a colorful and unique character that it was fine for me to wait Kieran out until he "dared to try" *lolll
**********
But what I really did not appreciate was the embarrassment Kieran felt about his attraction to Bash. The confusion I can totally understand and find even relatable for a guy who always identified as solely straight. But the shame he felt for it as if it was something bad and on top of it throwing it at bash like a punch to the gut was something I totally could’ve done without in a love interest and main character in my romance. I mean, his brothers are gay ffs!!
I swallowed hard as Bash repeated the move, watching me watching him.
Look away. You’re not into this.
To be honest I was shocked and ashamed for Bash for what happened next. I couldn’t believe he would let that happen. That this proud of himself creature would degrade himself by getting sexually entangled with a man who was so embarrassed by his attraction to and association with a gay man right after their argument about it. I couldn’t really enjoyed it even if it was hot as hell.
And Kieran’s sudden change of mind after drove me even more mad. He not even apologized!
**********
But well, after I swallowed my anger down I took with me for quite a while, the story returned to being very enjoyable for me again. Of course this book ends on a "dramatic" cliff hanger so I’m off to Dare Me to see where this is going.
July 30, 2021
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Dare You is the first book in the Dare to Try series and is centered around Bash, a character that I have been dying to get my hands on for so long. And honestly I wasn't sure how I would feel after such a long wait since tastes change and it's been awhile since I was originally introduced to him. But the really great thing about Bash is that he is such an amazing character that the love for him will never die. Bash is an outrageous (in a good way), androgynous, absolutely fabulous man that apologizes for nothing and no one. He is who he is and he wears his confidence so well that you can't help but be drawn to him.
Which is why Kieran couldn't just walk away after meeting Bash. Kieran is a new to me author since I haven't read the books he was in originally but I quickly came to like him. I loved seeing how he struggled to understand the feelings he was developing for Bash and I actually really liked how even with something new he didn't get scared off.
Bash and Kieran were honestly so good together and I loved the two different personalities of theirs coming together. But they have a lot to work out and I know there's going to be a lot more that happens between them so I can't wait to get my hands on their next book. Overall, this is a must read and Bash is a character everyone needs to meet.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Dare You is the first book in the Dare to Try series and is centered around Bash, a character that I have been dying to get my hands on for so long. And honestly I wasn't sure how I would feel after such a long wait since tastes change and it's been awhile since I was originally introduced to him. But the really great thing about Bash is that he is such an amazing character that the love for him will never die. Bash is an outrageous (in a good way), androgynous, absolutely fabulous man that apologizes for nothing and no one. He is who he is and he wears his confidence so well that you can't help but be drawn to him.
Which is why Kieran couldn't just walk away after meeting Bash. Kieran is a new to me author since I haven't read the books he was in originally but I quickly came to like him. I loved seeing how he struggled to understand the feelings he was developing for Bash and I actually really liked how even with something new he didn't get scared off.
Bash and Kieran were honestly so good together and I loved the two different personalities of theirs coming together. But they have a lot to work out and I know there's going to be a lot more that happens between them so I can't wait to get my hands on their next book. Overall, this is a must read and Bash is a character everyone needs to meet.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for honest review.
January 5, 2022
Audio - 4.75 Stars
Story - 3.5 Stars
Story - 3.5 Stars
August 7, 2021
Kieran and Bash are endgame. But Kieran needs to get his head out of his ass and APPRECIATE HIS MAN.
Also this Summer chick can GTFO
Also this Summer chick can GTFO
September 1, 2022
Thanks to my bestie Cass for this wonderful recommendation!
Well wasn’t this the most pleasant of surprises?!
Kieran, a Chicago Firefighter does a routine job at a hotel fire in which he saves a woman … and her Manolo Blahnik. He literally sweeps her off her feet but what Kieran soon finds out is that the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen is in fact a man … Bash.
And omg, give me a hot minute to swoon over this magnificent creature. He’s equally cocky as he is bashful, he’s sweet but doesn’t take shit from anyone. And don’t even get me started on all of his flirty innuendo.
Don’t get me wrong, Kieran is nothing to sneer at. He’s so incredibly nice, stands up for Bash no matter who it is. His utter confusion over his quickly building attraction for the beautiful man is perfection. The way he woos Bash thinking he’s making up for his rude coworker until he realizes he’s spent more time with Bash than anyone before.
Then when he finally gives in to his attraction, it smacks you right in the face with heat so hot only a firefighter can endure it. Seriously damn!
The last 20% of this had me on the edge of my seat and the way it ended … well let me just say how happy I am that I don’t need to wait for the next one.
Well wasn’t this the most pleasant of surprises?!
Kieran, a Chicago Firefighter does a routine job at a hotel fire in which he saves a woman … and her Manolo Blahnik. He literally sweeps her off her feet but what Kieran soon finds out is that the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen is in fact a man … Bash.
And omg, give me a hot minute to swoon over this magnificent creature. He’s equally cocky as he is bashful, he’s sweet but doesn’t take shit from anyone. And don’t even get me started on all of his flirty innuendo.
Don’t get me wrong, Kieran is nothing to sneer at. He’s so incredibly nice, stands up for Bash no matter who it is. His utter confusion over his quickly building attraction for the beautiful man is perfection. The way he woos Bash thinking he’s making up for his rude coworker until he realizes he’s spent more time with Bash than anyone before.
Then when he finally gives in to his attraction, it smacks you right in the face with heat so hot only a firefighter can endure it. Seriously damn!
The last 20% of this had me on the edge of my seat and the way it ended … well let me just say how happy I am that I don’t need to wait for the next one.
August 8, 2021
2.5 stars
I seem to be in the minority but this did not work for me. Dare You is about 85 percent banter and the rest is fireman lingo and descriptions of fire rescues. There was banter between Bash and Kieran. Banter between Bash and his friends. Banter between Kieran and his fellow firefighters, as well as with his family. And the banter did not work for me, nor did the snark or humor.
Bash is supposed to be this larger than life, sassy character but I wasn't feeling him either. Kieran seemed more like a stock character of a hot, heroic fireman. Even the sexy times (no actual sex yet) seemed a bit cheesy at times. What did work, however, was that it was easy to read like all of Ella Frank's work.
I seem to be in the minority but this did not work for me. Dare You is about 85 percent banter and the rest is fireman lingo and descriptions of fire rescues. There was banter between Bash and Kieran. Banter between Bash and his friends. Banter between Kieran and his fellow firefighters, as well as with his family. And the banter did not work for me, nor did the snark or humor.
Bash is supposed to be this larger than life, sassy character but I wasn't feeling him either. Kieran seemed more like a stock character of a hot, heroic fireman. Even the sexy times (no actual sex yet) seemed a bit cheesy at times. What did work, however, was that it was easy to read like all of Ella Frank's work.
August 21, 2025
[This review covers all three books in the series]
Well, this series was entirely too long and unnecessary. For real, what even was the need for this series to be three books long? It could have been one really good book maybe two but THREE??? Come on, girls! I know you want to make the $$$ but be serious, please 😅
I probably wouldn't have cared as much had I enjoyed the audio, but I didn't. It's nearly impossible to skim audio when things are dragging, so often it felt like a slog, especially the last book. Someone needed to come in with a weedwacker and get to chopping the whole thing. Editing, what's that? Book three was first draft throw it up there and see what sticks vibes all the way 💀
Don't get me wrong, the series wasn't horrible, but it just sucks when you know it could have been much better had it been what it needed to be instead of coming off as a cash grab. I liked Bash and Kieran. They were fun characters with great chemistry. The premise was good, and everything started off nicely. Book one could have been better, but book two picked up from there and things improved. All was well and good until book three which was completely dumb. Nothing but dumb decisions for days 🙄 Complaining and spoilers below just FYI...
Beyond the books themselves, I have no idea why I listened to the audio for this series when I find both narrators incredibly mid. Actually, I do know. The books were all super cheap on the last Audible sale, and I convinced myself it would be okay. It was not 😂 I knew it wouldn't be, but I didn't let it stop me, so this was completely a problem of my own making. Anyway, hopefully I've learned my lesson. Two meh narrators do not make one good narrator 🙃
Well, this series was entirely too long and unnecessary. For real, what even was the need for this series to be three books long? It could have been one really good book maybe two but THREE??? Come on, girls! I know you want to make the $$$ but be serious, please 😅
I probably wouldn't have cared as much had I enjoyed the audio, but I didn't. It's nearly impossible to skim audio when things are dragging, so often it felt like a slog, especially the last book. Someone needed to come in with a weedwacker and get to chopping the whole thing. Editing, what's that? Book three was first draft throw it up there and see what sticks vibes all the way 💀
Don't get me wrong, the series wasn't horrible, but it just sucks when you know it could have been much better had it been what it needed to be instead of coming off as a cash grab. I liked Bash and Kieran. They were fun characters with great chemistry. The premise was good, and everything started off nicely. Book one could have been better, but book two picked up from there and things improved. All was well and good until book three which was completely dumb. Nothing but dumb decisions for days 🙄 Complaining and spoilers below just FYI...
Beyond the books themselves, I have no idea why I listened to the audio for this series when I find both narrators incredibly mid. Actually, I do know. The books were all super cheap on the last Audible sale, and I convinced myself it would be okay. It was not 😂 I knew it wouldn't be, but I didn't let it stop me, so this was completely a problem of my own making. Anyway, hopefully I've learned my lesson. Two meh narrators do not make one good narrator 🙃
August 31, 2021
𝟯.𝟱 ✧
that random as hell cliff-hanger, though 🙄
January 18, 2022
ETA: Listening to this trilogy in audio format and so far I am loving the narrators! Fun, sassy, and I just am falling in love with Kieran and Bash all over again!
Ahhhhh! Well everyone has been begging for Bash's story, but I had NOT thought to pair him up with the the last Bailey Brother from Ella's Chicago men series!
AND WOW I LOVED THIS!
I love the chemistry between the two - right away Bash and Kieran just have this easy friendship, a very opposites attract friendship at that, and the beginnings of interest for them both - despite Kieran being "straight" and Bash refusing to fall for a closeted guy. Kieran becoming interested in Bash just felt so easy and seamless - though I predict there will be some trouble and conflict ahead as the two navigate Kieran's super homophobic work environment.
And thankfully we don't have long to wait for the second and third books - because this cliffhanger is a bit of a doozy. I love Bash so much and I want a mega HEA for him. I want Kieran to get his head on right lol.
Those of you who aren't fans of cliffhangers might want to wait until closer to the release date of the third book. And while you definitely could start with this book without having read anything of Ella and Brooke's previous books, I think you'd enjoy it more having read the other series that all connect to this one.
Cannot wait for books 2 and 3.
ALSO. I LOVE LOVE LOVE that they go to The Popped Cherry together! Ahhhhh, such a wonderful thing to get a glimpse of my OTP boys!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Ahhhhh! Well everyone has been begging for Bash's story, but I had NOT thought to pair him up with the the last Bailey Brother from Ella's Chicago men series!
AND WOW I LOVED THIS!
I love the chemistry between the two - right away Bash and Kieran just have this easy friendship, a very opposites attract friendship at that, and the beginnings of interest for them both - despite Kieran being "straight" and Bash refusing to fall for a closeted guy. Kieran becoming interested in Bash just felt so easy and seamless - though I predict there will be some trouble and conflict ahead as the two navigate Kieran's super homophobic work environment.
And thankfully we don't have long to wait for the second and third books - because this cliffhanger is a bit of a doozy. I love Bash so much and I want a mega HEA for him. I want Kieran to get his head on right lol.
Those of you who aren't fans of cliffhangers might want to wait until closer to the release date of the third book. And while you definitely could start with this book without having read anything of Ella and Brooke's previous books, I think you'd enjoy it more having read the other series that all connect to this one.
Cannot wait for books 2 and 3.
ALSO. I LOVE LOVE LOVE that they go to The Popped Cherry together! Ahhhhh, such a wonderful thing to get a glimpse of my OTP boys!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2021
BASH!
We've been waiting for decades to get his story!
Bookalzheimer-me almost forgot about him!
You don't have to have read Brooke's South Haven series and Ella's Prime Time series to enjoy this trilogy, but I would really suggest you read them!
Especially the Bash moments in Brooke's series are so worth it!
Ok ... DARE YOU.
Book #1 in Bash and Kieran's love story.
Bash is a very happily flamboyantly gay guy. He's the CEO of his own tech company - he's very famous in the business world. That's why he's in Chicago at the moment to open an office there.
Kieran is one of Chicago's hottest firefighters and a collector of one-night stands - with the ladies! Yup. 🤣
But then he rescues this pretty guy from a fire and he's suddenly questioning everything. He can't get Bash out of his head ...
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN ...
══════════════════
♥ ADORABLE ♥
We already knew that anything containing Bash would be amazing! And it was. I absolutely loved reading this!
I'm usually not a fan of trilogies - I hate waiting - or rather, my bookalzheimer brain completely forgets everything! But - this time it's only a month between books. And yes - we did get a bit of a cliffy here. But we'll survive!
This story was so cute and funny and SEXY!
Poor Kieran is so confused but also not... And Bash is just amazing. But he's also very vulnerable - even if he's not showing it to the world.
They're so perfect for each other, but of course we have a long way to go until that happy end!
I loved reading this and I can't wait to see where these ladies will take us in the next two books!
BEAUTIFUL + FUNNY + SEXY M/M ROMANCE!
💜
💜
August 19, 2021
99% of this was amazing, hence giving this 4 stars. But I had to give it one star off instead of the 5 I wanted to give it because of that ridiculous ending.
Usually I don't mind the cliffhangers Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine give us in these, because they aren't too bad.
I don't think that can be said for this one.
Everything about this was going so so well. I loved Bash and Kieran and their chemistry together, I loved the story, they were just so perfect together, I could see so well how they were falling in love....
And then they had to introduce that contrived drama at the end, for no reason. Like okay, why would
So so damn contrived, and frustrated me to no end, and to top it off, they end it there at a cliffhanger. When you do something that ridiculous out of nowhere, ending it on a cliffhanger is doubly insulting.
And again, I usually don't mind with these two. It's usually never this contrived and even if there's a problem, it's not too bad and it's obvious it isn't a big deal.
But this was just...no. Just to cause drama, and it was done in such a ridiculous way. Things were going well for these two, but they had to have a cliffhanger somehow, right? 🙄
They could have made it about, oh, I dunno, the fact that Kieran thought he was straight before all this and maybe he continues to try to hide Bash and it hurts Bash? Like that's not as big of a drama as what was actually in this but it would have actually made sense.
I can't get over it. I just couldn't believe that ending. So stupid.
But again, I loved 99% of this. It was so good, and this completely would have been 5 stars for me if not for that ending.
The rest of the book was good enough to only give off one star, but just the fact that I feel the need to give off one whole damn star when this was perfect before that for me shows how bad that stupid ass cliffhanger ending was.
And I know I'm spending this whole review complaining about it when I AM giving this book 4 stars overall, which is good, but DAMN, it was sO STUPID! 😤 Made me angry enough to rant about it, and that's never good.
I would honestly wait until the second book is out to read this, and I should have done that too. Because now I have stew in my anger over that ending for a few more weeks!
Whew. Okay. I'm good, it's all good.
Now so as not to make this review all negative when I'm giving it four stars, here's the good stuff about this that made me happy:
Bash. Oh Bash. Kieran. Oh Kieran. Except for 1% of this book when I wanted to shake some sense into you both, I loved you both dearly.
Their personalities just leapt off the page. I loved both of them from the start. We didn't get much of Kieran in Bailey's books or Sean's books, so I loved getting to know him more.
And I don't remember Bash at all from the South Haven books (because honestly it's been forever since I read them), but this made me fall in love with him. He's just so uniquely him; not afraid to be who he is and the confidence in himself we all wish we could have.
He is a bright light and no wonder he is the one man to attract Kieran when he thought he was straight. He's a knockout.
We only got to see him crossdress at the very beginning, but I do hope we get to see it a little more in the next two books. But even when he isn't crossdressing, Bash dresses fabulously, and I loved it.
And Kieran is a firefighter, a strong, buff, sexy man who gets all of Bash's gears going. If you're someone who is into men, who wouldn't be attracted to someone like that? Who can pick you up easily and looks hot AF doing it 😉
But of course, after their initial attraction, their connection starts to go deeper than that. They are totally falling for each other, but Kieran has to work through the fact that he's attracted to (and more) to a man and Bash plans to head back to South Haven in a weeks time.
Bash is the CEO of a big tech company, and he is expanding it to Chicago offices as well, but he's just been there to get it off the ground, he doesn't intend to live in Chicago...
But he's met Kieran, there is something real there...but he's trying to convince himself he'll be fine when he leaves and will remember it as some hot summer fun....
Whatever you tell yourself, sir.
Although it does raise the question...wonder who will permanently move with who by the end of this...I feel like I could see Kieran moving to South Haven more than the other way around, with sporadic visits with Bash to Chicago to see family and stuff. But if Bash does stay in Chicago, it'll be interesting to see how that happens when Bash seems so set on staying in South Haven as his permanent home...a lot to think about.
And also something for potential drama that makes sense for drama between these two! Yay! (Lol couldn't help myself)
So overall, I loved this, couldn't get enough of it, was enjoying this so much, a total 5 star read....and then the ending brought my mood and enjoyment down fast. And made me annoyed that I have to wait to see what happens.
I will totally be reading more in this trilogy, of course, because ultimately I do love these authors and their stories and this one in particular and this couple. I'll be rushing to get it because of COURSE I have to see how these two get their heads out of their asses.
But that doesn't mean that that ending wasn't completely stupid and brought a 5 star read down to a 4 star read when it didn't need to!
Definitely recommend....for when at least book two comes out. Otherwise you're going to get to that ending and be frustrated as hell.
Majority of the time, an amazing start to this series, though. Too bad for ridiculous, contrived, cliffhanger endings though 😩
Usually I don't mind the cliffhangers Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine give us in these, because they aren't too bad.
I don't think that can be said for this one.
Everything about this was going so so well. I loved Bash and Kieran and their chemistry together, I loved the story, they were just so perfect together, I could see so well how they were falling in love....
And then they had to introduce that contrived drama at the end, for no reason. Like okay, why would
So so damn contrived, and frustrated me to no end, and to top it off, they end it there at a cliffhanger. When you do something that ridiculous out of nowhere, ending it on a cliffhanger is doubly insulting.
And again, I usually don't mind with these two. It's usually never this contrived and even if there's a problem, it's not too bad and it's obvious it isn't a big deal.
But this was just...no. Just to cause drama, and it was done in such a ridiculous way. Things were going well for these two, but they had to have a cliffhanger somehow, right? 🙄
They could have made it about, oh, I dunno, the fact that Kieran thought he was straight before all this and maybe he continues to try to hide Bash and it hurts Bash? Like that's not as big of a drama as what was actually in this but it would have actually made sense.
I can't get over it. I just couldn't believe that ending. So stupid.
But again, I loved 99% of this. It was so good, and this completely would have been 5 stars for me if not for that ending.
The rest of the book was good enough to only give off one star, but just the fact that I feel the need to give off one whole damn star when this was perfect before that for me shows how bad that stupid ass cliffhanger ending was.
And I know I'm spending this whole review complaining about it when I AM giving this book 4 stars overall, which is good, but DAMN, it was sO STUPID! 😤 Made me angry enough to rant about it, and that's never good.
I would honestly wait until the second book is out to read this, and I should have done that too. Because now I have stew in my anger over that ending for a few more weeks!
Whew. Okay. I'm good, it's all good.
Now so as not to make this review all negative when I'm giving it four stars, here's the good stuff about this that made me happy:
Bash. Oh Bash. Kieran. Oh Kieran. Except for 1% of this book when I wanted to shake some sense into you both, I loved you both dearly.
Their personalities just leapt off the page. I loved both of them from the start. We didn't get much of Kieran in Bailey's books or Sean's books, so I loved getting to know him more.
And I don't remember Bash at all from the South Haven books (because honestly it's been forever since I read them), but this made me fall in love with him. He's just so uniquely him; not afraid to be who he is and the confidence in himself we all wish we could have.
He is a bright light and no wonder he is the one man to attract Kieran when he thought he was straight. He's a knockout.
We only got to see him crossdress at the very beginning, but I do hope we get to see it a little more in the next two books. But even when he isn't crossdressing, Bash dresses fabulously, and I loved it.
And Kieran is a firefighter, a strong, buff, sexy man who gets all of Bash's gears going. If you're someone who is into men, who wouldn't be attracted to someone like that? Who can pick you up easily and looks hot AF doing it 😉
But of course, after their initial attraction, their connection starts to go deeper than that. They are totally falling for each other, but Kieran has to work through the fact that he's attracted to (and more) to a man and Bash plans to head back to South Haven in a weeks time.
Bash is the CEO of a big tech company, and he is expanding it to Chicago offices as well, but he's just been there to get it off the ground, he doesn't intend to live in Chicago...
But he's met Kieran, there is something real there...but he's trying to convince himself he'll be fine when he leaves and will remember it as some hot summer fun....
Whatever you tell yourself, sir.
Although it does raise the question...wonder who will permanently move with who by the end of this...I feel like I could see Kieran moving to South Haven more than the other way around, with sporadic visits with Bash to Chicago to see family and stuff. But if Bash does stay in Chicago, it'll be interesting to see how that happens when Bash seems so set on staying in South Haven as his permanent home...a lot to think about.
And also something for potential drama that makes sense for drama between these two! Yay! (Lol couldn't help myself)
So overall, I loved this, couldn't get enough of it, was enjoying this so much, a total 5 star read....and then the ending brought my mood and enjoyment down fast. And made me annoyed that I have to wait to see what happens.
I will totally be reading more in this trilogy, of course, because ultimately I do love these authors and their stories and this one in particular and this couple. I'll be rushing to get it because of COURSE I have to see how these two get their heads out of their asses.
But that doesn't mean that that ending wasn't completely stupid and brought a 5 star read down to a 4 star read when it didn't need to!
Definitely recommend....for when at least book two comes out. Otherwise you're going to get to that ending and be frustrated as hell.
Majority of the time, an amazing start to this series, though. Too bad for ridiculous, contrived, cliffhanger endings though 😩
September 3, 2021
Man, I’ve been so looking forward to Bash’s story, and Dare You was definitely worth the wait! I so enjoyed Bash and Kieran’s meet-cute, even if there was a tiny bit of confusion on Kieran’s part.
And I really enjoyed the fast friendship that grew between these two—a fast friendship that led into a bit more. Just a little bit more . . . Until the end, and now this friends-leading-to-benefits relationship is in a bit of flux, to say the least! And I’m so ready for Dare Me to find out just what happens next! ~ Missy, 4 stars
And I really enjoyed the fast friendship that grew between these two—a fast friendship that led into a bit more. Just a little bit more . . . Until the end, and now this friends-leading-to-benefits relationship is in a bit of flux, to say the least! And I’m so ready for Dare Me to find out just what happens next! ~ Missy, 4 stars
September 5, 2021
With the GFY trope, I found this similar to the Temptation series. The characters are less intense than Logan and Tate for sure. And maybe more likable. But it failed to grab my attention, I'm not invested. I'm lukewarm towards the characters at best. The slight misundertanding at the end can't even be called a cliffhanger, it can be ironed out easily.
All the characters from both author's books show up. Aaaall of them. Even a short Tate and Logan sighting. lol I'm sure we will see them again.
Kudos to the author for managing to write scenes about first responders aaaalmost perfectly (there was a missing mask that suddenly appeared on Kieran's face out of nowhere, but hey). But really it was great. Seeing firefighters on tv is one thing, but actually writing down a scene, it could be chaotic.
All in all, I don't care enough about them to continue.
All the characters from both author's books show up. Aaaall of them. Even a short Tate and Logan sighting. lol I'm sure we will see them again.
Kudos to the author for managing to write scenes about first responders aaaalmost perfectly (there was a missing mask that suddenly appeared on Kieran's face out of nowhere, but hey). But really it was great. Seeing firefighters on tv is one thing, but actually writing down a scene, it could be chaotic.
All in all, I don't care enough about them to continue.
October 12, 2021
No pinta mal aquí el libro, con el bombero y el hombre over the top. Pero, escribo esto después de haber terminado la serie y sé que no se mantiene interesante, ups.
August 19, 2021
Dnf @ 19%
I don't know why I still buy this author's MM book. I don't think I have really ever liked any of them ( Try was my introduction to her and I'm definitely not rereading it out of fear my rating will tank).
They ALWAYS go the same way, I have seen no variation in the few I have read. The MC will be straight and then meet someone and all of a sudden he's gay, intersperse some banter and maybe some life/death drama and you have yourself a book. This is coming from me whose guilty pleasure is reading Alessandra Hazard books.
EF is just plain boring to me. I realize I keep reading her books because my friends seem to love them so much but I've come to realize they are not for me. I hope I remember my stance when the next book/series is released.
I don't know why I still buy this author's MM book. I don't think I have really ever liked any of them ( Try was my introduction to her and I'm definitely not rereading it out of fear my rating will tank).
They ALWAYS go the same way, I have seen no variation in the few I have read. The MC will be straight and then meet someone and all of a sudden he's gay, intersperse some banter and maybe some life/death drama and you have yourself a book. This is coming from me whose guilty pleasure is reading Alessandra Hazard books.
EF is just plain boring to me. I realize I keep reading her books because my friends seem to love them so much but I've come to realize they are not for me. I hope I remember my stance when the next book/series is released.
October 2, 2021
DNF
I tried to finish it because I loved the 2018 Bash. This was not it! I could not get past a few points…
I felt like I was reading a bad mm book from the 1990s with the outdated terms like cross dresser and calling a person of color.. exotic. EWW no..
SO fucking cringy.
It was very obvious they did not use sensitivity readers or had at least a queer beta. It was embarrassing bad at times. It was unfinishable.
I did not care what happened to anyone in this universe which is why I won’t continue this series and tbh this book put me off these authors in general FOREVER Ugh 😣
I tried to finish it because I loved the 2018 Bash. This was not it! I could not get past a few points…
I felt like I was reading a bad mm book from the 1990s with the outdated terms like cross dresser and calling a person of color.. exotic. EWW no..
SO fucking cringy.
It was very obvious they did not use sensitivity readers or had at least a queer beta. It was embarrassing bad at times. It was unfinishable.
I did not care what happened to anyone in this universe which is why I won’t continue this series and tbh this book put me off these authors in general FOREVER Ugh 😣
August 2, 2021
Well this was lovely! Ella and Brooke’s books are usually a miss for me, so this book surprised me. The chemistry between the two MCs was perfect. I loved both characters, especially Bash’s confidence. The causal friends to lovers was executed well. Also, I’m so happy this was slowburn! Now why is there a cliffhanger??? Now I have to wait for the next one.
March 1, 2025
well i just blew through that! this was so cute and easy and i loved it. Bash is absolutely fabulous and i just want to be his bestie and have the confidence he has. and Kieran is definitely hot and no not just cause he’s a firefighter cause he is just so easy going and adorable. this was just so damn cute!
July 30, 2021
Bash is as fan-fucking-fabulous as I remember him...Kieran ain't so bad either 😉.
I was thoroughly delighted when this book was announced. We've been waiting a long time for Bash and to find out his love interest was going to be Kieran from Ella Franks Chicagoverse was one hell of a fun surprise. I love when Blaine and Frank team up. It's always a winning combination for me.
We've seen a lot more of Bash in the South Haven series than we have of Kieran. The only thing I really remember about Kieran was that he was straight and liked his women. Bash on the other hand could never be confused for a straight man. He shines too bright with his glamourous sense of style and unapologetically confident personality. I adore him even more after getting to spend time in his head.
I really enjoyed their first meeting. Nothing like the adrenaline pumping from being saved by a hunky fireman to give Bash ideas. It was so fun seeing Bash purchase I'm guessing his first pair of jeans when he ventures to the fire house to give his thanks. Even "dressed down", Bash definitely made an impression on straight boy Kieran. I bet neither of them expected to like each other so much as friends, nevermind how much they seemed to like each other as more. But you'll have to read this one to find out how it progresses. You won't be getting any spoilers from me. All I can say is wow.
** A copy of the book was provided by the authors in exchange for honest and unbiased review**
I was thoroughly delighted when this book was announced. We've been waiting a long time for Bash and to find out his love interest was going to be Kieran from Ella Franks Chicagoverse was one hell of a fun surprise. I love when Blaine and Frank team up. It's always a winning combination for me.
We've seen a lot more of Bash in the South Haven series than we have of Kieran. The only thing I really remember about Kieran was that he was straight and liked his women. Bash on the other hand could never be confused for a straight man. He shines too bright with his glamourous sense of style and unapologetically confident personality. I adore him even more after getting to spend time in his head.
I really enjoyed their first meeting. Nothing like the adrenaline pumping from being saved by a hunky fireman to give Bash ideas. It was so fun seeing Bash purchase I'm guessing his first pair of jeans when he ventures to the fire house to give his thanks. Even "dressed down", Bash definitely made an impression on straight boy Kieran. I bet neither of them expected to like each other so much as friends, nevermind how much they seemed to like each other as more. But you'll have to read this one to find out how it progresses. You won't be getting any spoilers from me. All I can say is wow.
** A copy of the book was provided by the authors in exchange for honest and unbiased review**
August 10, 2021
At this point between Ella Frank & Brooke Blaine I have read 30 or so books of theirs and every time they get me with the cliffhangers!!! You'd think I would learn to expect them but nope!!
Bash isn't complaining when he is thrown over the shoulder of one of Chicago's finest when his hotel room catches on fire, but he never did get a look at exactly who saved him....
Sebastian “Bash” Vogel is very content in the life he leads. He lives on a beautiful island, has wonderful friends, CEO of his own company and is 100% confident in who he is. Being in Chicago isn't going to be permanent, he is just here to get his new location of AnaVoge open and be back to South Haven before anyone realizes he has left. Having your hotel catch on fire and then being rescued by a firefighter is one way to do things and Bash doesn't do anything unless it is in style. Now, he wants to thank the man who saved him, but Kieran Bailey is everything tempting to a guy like Bash, but he is straight. Bash can just be the guy’s friend, how hard could it be being just friends with the tall, delicious and funny firefighter?
Kieran Bailey lieutenant at Station 73 is always getting comments from the guys he works with about saving the next damsel in distress, but he never thought that the princess he was rescuing that night was a prince. When the man himself shows up at the station Kieran doesn't know how to feel about this enigmatic guy but he does know that he isn't able to get Bash off his mind. After yet another un in with the cross-dressing CEO Kieran doesn't know how to feel about all these new feelings going on his head and with his body. He is straight, so why is Bash lighting more than just the fires he has to put out for his job?
As Bash & Kieran's innocent flirting on Kieran's part starts to turn more heated both men are left with more feelings than they know what to do with. For Bash, falling for a straight guy is the last thing he would ever do but there is something about the lieutenant he can't seem to shake. Kieran has always been straight and there is nothing that could make him change his mind on that fact, but Bash isn't your usual man and everything that is the fabulous CEO seems to check all of Kieran's boxes.
While Brooke Blaine's South Haven series is one of the few of hers, I haven't read, I have read all of the books in Ella Frank's Chicagoverse and combining the two worlds with Bash & Kieran is a masterpiece!! From the moment I started Dare You it was like coming home from the witty banter the characters have, to seeing old favorites like Xander & Tate. Then that freaking cliffhanger GRRRR!! Five stars though, because I am addicted to all things Ella Frank & Brooke Blaine. Impatiently awaiting book two in Kieran & Bash's series Dare Me which comes out at the end of August 2021!!
Bash isn't complaining when he is thrown over the shoulder of one of Chicago's finest when his hotel room catches on fire, but he never did get a look at exactly who saved him....
Sebastian “Bash” Vogel is very content in the life he leads. He lives on a beautiful island, has wonderful friends, CEO of his own company and is 100% confident in who he is. Being in Chicago isn't going to be permanent, he is just here to get his new location of AnaVoge open and be back to South Haven before anyone realizes he has left. Having your hotel catch on fire and then being rescued by a firefighter is one way to do things and Bash doesn't do anything unless it is in style. Now, he wants to thank the man who saved him, but Kieran Bailey is everything tempting to a guy like Bash, but he is straight. Bash can just be the guy’s friend, how hard could it be being just friends with the tall, delicious and funny firefighter?
Kieran Bailey lieutenant at Station 73 is always getting comments from the guys he works with about saving the next damsel in distress, but he never thought that the princess he was rescuing that night was a prince. When the man himself shows up at the station Kieran doesn't know how to feel about this enigmatic guy but he does know that he isn't able to get Bash off his mind. After yet another un in with the cross-dressing CEO Kieran doesn't know how to feel about all these new feelings going on his head and with his body. He is straight, so why is Bash lighting more than just the fires he has to put out for his job?
As Bash & Kieran's innocent flirting on Kieran's part starts to turn more heated both men are left with more feelings than they know what to do with. For Bash, falling for a straight guy is the last thing he would ever do but there is something about the lieutenant he can't seem to shake. Kieran has always been straight and there is nothing that could make him change his mind on that fact, but Bash isn't your usual man and everything that is the fabulous CEO seems to check all of Kieran's boxes.
While Brooke Blaine's South Haven series is one of the few of hers, I haven't read, I have read all of the books in Ella Frank's Chicagoverse and combining the two worlds with Bash & Kieran is a masterpiece!! From the moment I started Dare You it was like coming home from the witty banter the characters have, to seeing old favorites like Xander & Tate. Then that freaking cliffhanger GRRRR!! Five stars though, because I am addicted to all things Ella Frank & Brooke Blaine. Impatiently awaiting book two in Kieran & Bash's series Dare Me which comes out at the end of August 2021!!
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