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Dare to Try #3
Truth or Dare
Truth or Dare is the final book in the Dare to Try trilogy and should only be read after Dare You and Dare Me.
Lieutenant Kieran Bailey never saw his life anywhere but the bustling streets of Chicago—but then again, he never saw his life with a boyfriend, either. That all changed when he fell in love with bombshell CEO Sebastian “Bash” Vogel.
But it’s one thing to fall in love. It’s another to try to build a life together when you live hundreds of miles apart.
How do you choose between everything you’ve ever known and everything you’ve ever dreamed of?
This series must be read in the following order:
Dare You (book one)
Dare Me (book two)
Truth or Dare (book three)
Lieutenant Kieran Bailey never saw his life anywhere but the bustling streets of Chicago—but then again, he never saw his life with a boyfriend, either. That all changed when he fell in love with bombshell CEO Sebastian “Bash” Vogel.
But it’s one thing to fall in love. It’s another to try to build a life together when you live hundreds of miles apart.
How do you choose between everything you’ve ever known and everything you’ve ever dreamed of?
This series must be read in the following order:
Dare You (book one)
Dare Me (book two)
Truth or Dare (book three)
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 27, 2021
150 people are currently reading
1003 people want to read
About the author
Ella Frank
95 books8,777 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 448 reviews
October 16, 2021
i’m very happy to announce that i’m dnf’ing this @ 62%.😌 i just mentally can’t deal with this series anymore and want to forget it exists asap. no regrets.
just like in books 1 and 2, there’s no actual plot in this. no serious conversations in sight. it’s mostly just bantering and flirting. it got old really quickly. i was craving more depth, both in the characters and the story.
anyway, now that i’ve read almost the whole series, here are my summarised thoughts overall -
✦ i didn’t really give a shit about the romance between Bash and Kieran. it just fizzled out for me at the beginning of book 2 or somewhere close to that.
✦ complete lack of any actual meaningful plot.
✦ weak relationship development.
✦ weak character development, which made the mcs super stereotypical overall.
✦ no depth whatsoever.
✦ never-ending, cheesy, stupid flirting/bantering that does your head in.
✦ everything went downhill right after the mcs finally got together.
✦ occasional weak smut that makes you yawn.
✦ too many appearances of characters from other EF and BB books. if you like Henri, Bailey, Sean, Alexander, Lucas, Jameson, Shaw & Trent from EF’s and BB’s other books, you might like this series more, purely because of all the side character appearances. since i barely gave a shit about most of those guys, the constant appearances held absolutely no appeal for me.
✦ lots of pointless miscommunication/lack of communication.
✦ the mcs moving in together after two months of knowing each other made me cackle like a lunatic. if i ever decide to move to another city 15 hours away for a partner, after a couple of months of dating, someone please fucking stop me immediately.
✦ unnecessary, dumb cliffhangers.
✦ there was absolutely no need for this series to be 3 books. this whole pathetic excuse of a story could have been condensed into one 200 page book.
✦ mediocre writing at best.
✦ too much filler.
anyway i’m so glad to be finally done with this shit. bye!
just like in books 1 and 2, there’s no actual plot in this. no serious conversations in sight. it’s mostly just bantering and flirting. it got old really quickly. i was craving more depth, both in the characters and the story.
anyway, now that i’ve read almost the whole series, here are my summarised thoughts overall -
✦ i didn’t really give a shit about the romance between Bash and Kieran. it just fizzled out for me at the beginning of book 2 or somewhere close to that.
✦ complete lack of any actual meaningful plot.
✦ weak relationship development.
✦ weak character development, which made the mcs super stereotypical overall.
✦ no depth whatsoever.
✦ never-ending, cheesy, stupid flirting/bantering that does your head in.
✦ everything went downhill right after the mcs finally got together.
✦ occasional weak smut that makes you yawn.
✦ too many appearances of characters from other EF and BB books. if you like Henri, Bailey, Sean, Alexander, Lucas, Jameson, Shaw & Trent from EF’s and BB’s other books, you might like this series more, purely because of all the side character appearances. since i barely gave a shit about most of those guys, the constant appearances held absolutely no appeal for me.
✦ lots of pointless miscommunication/lack of communication.
✦ the mcs moving in together after two months of knowing each other made me cackle like a lunatic. if i ever decide to move to another city 15 hours away for a partner, after a couple of months of dating, someone please fucking stop me immediately.
✦ unnecessary, dumb cliffhangers.
✦ there was absolutely no need for this series to be 3 books. this whole pathetic excuse of a story could have been condensed into one 200 page book.
✦ mediocre writing at best.
✦ too much filler.
anyway i’m so glad to be finally done with this shit. bye!
October 7, 2021
4.5 Stars
This final story in Bash and Kieran’s delicious trilogy was all things sweet, sexy and satisfying.
After the events of book two, Bash and Kieran are emotionally and romantically solid. They’ve shared their love confessions and made proclamations about making their relationship work, no matter the distance between them, and now it’s just about sharing their love with the people in their lives who matter, while also finding a way around their pesky distance issue.
Needless to say, this story was a steamy and romantic little number, much like its successors, but more so, seeing all the relationship angst a thing of the past, now that Kieran and Bash are comfortable and thriving in their love, both ready and determined to make a life together.
And what a life they made here. Some will argue that things fell into place too easily and that no relationship runs this smoothly, but I DON’T CARE. I’m here for the escapism romance reading gives me, and I don’t need to look too closely at the details to be a happy girl, as long as my characters are happy and I’m entertained.
This story ultimately played out like one big epilogue, it’s true, setting all the pieces of Kieran’s and Bash’s lives in place and blending them as one, so they could achieve quite the wonderful and envy-worthy HEA.
I loved where these two ended up—which will be of no surprise to anyone who knows me and knows my initial worries about Bash’s story being blended in Ella’s Chicagoverse. Alas, I was one happy reader, practically cheering as big decisions were made (to my liking and theirs). This couldn’t have gone any better had I mapped out exactly what I wanted to happen before I’d even read it.
Adding to the deliciously satisfying romance between Bash and Kieran was the presence and joy shared by their friends and family alike. Sean Bailey, in particular, was the highlight of this book for me, literally stealing scenes every time he was on page. The dude made me laugh and laugh hard, which serves as just another reminder that this trilogy may be its own thing, but these characters all have a very long and extensive history across many other books and series, making it a must to be well-versed in both author's works, together and solo.
Bash and Kieran’s story was a joy to read and I’m confident when I say that theirs was one of my personal favourite book series of 2021, let alone from the Chicagoverse at large.
This final story in Bash and Kieran’s delicious trilogy was all things sweet, sexy and satisfying.
After the events of book two, Bash and Kieran are emotionally and romantically solid. They’ve shared their love confessions and made proclamations about making their relationship work, no matter the distance between them, and now it’s just about sharing their love with the people in their lives who matter, while also finding a way around their pesky distance issue.
Needless to say, this story was a steamy and romantic little number, much like its successors, but more so, seeing all the relationship angst a thing of the past, now that Kieran and Bash are comfortable and thriving in their love, both ready and determined to make a life together.
And what a life they made here. Some will argue that things fell into place too easily and that no relationship runs this smoothly, but I DON’T CARE. I’m here for the escapism romance reading gives me, and I don’t need to look too closely at the details to be a happy girl, as long as my characters are happy and I’m entertained.
This story ultimately played out like one big epilogue, it’s true, setting all the pieces of Kieran’s and Bash’s lives in place and blending them as one, so they could achieve quite the wonderful and envy-worthy HEA.
I loved where these two ended up—which will be of no surprise to anyone who knows me and knows my initial worries about Bash’s story being blended in Ella’s Chicagoverse. Alas, I was one happy reader, practically cheering as big decisions were made (to my liking and theirs). This couldn’t have gone any better had I mapped out exactly what I wanted to happen before I’d even read it.
Adding to the deliciously satisfying romance between Bash and Kieran was the presence and joy shared by their friends and family alike. Sean Bailey, in particular, was the highlight of this book for me, literally stealing scenes every time he was on page. The dude made me laugh and laugh hard, which serves as just another reminder that this trilogy may be its own thing, but these characters all have a very long and extensive history across many other books and series, making it a must to be well-versed in both author's works, together and solo.
Bash and Kieran’s story was a joy to read and I’m confident when I say that theirs was one of my personal favourite book series of 2021, let alone from the Chicagoverse at large.
September 22, 2021
Oh well that was all ends up smexy and full of loving.
Ella and Brooke pulled out all the stops for this concluding part to what's been a really enjoyable series from the two and - finally! - a happy ending for the wonder that is Sebastian Vogel aka Bash.
I've loved Bash since he first arrived in Brooke's excellent South Haven series and it was obvious he was going to need someone special. Enter Kieran Bailey. I have to say, I'd not seen it coming but over the last two books, they've proved beyond any doubt that they are utterly perfect together.
This book wraps things up beautifully with some awesomely hot sex, some beautiful conversations and lots of fun times with the rest of the Baileys and with Bash's bunch of friends on the island.
The series as a whole has been one of my favourites from the pair and I'm intrigued by the two new characters/series' that they've introduced in this final chapter and which will be coming from them individually later on.
#ARC kindly received from the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review
Ella and Brooke pulled out all the stops for this concluding part to what's been a really enjoyable series from the two and - finally! - a happy ending for the wonder that is Sebastian Vogel aka Bash.
I've loved Bash since he first arrived in Brooke's excellent South Haven series and it was obvious he was going to need someone special. Enter Kieran Bailey. I have to say, I'd not seen it coming but over the last two books, they've proved beyond any doubt that they are utterly perfect together.
This book wraps things up beautifully with some awesomely hot sex, some beautiful conversations and lots of fun times with the rest of the Baileys and with Bash's bunch of friends on the island.
The series as a whole has been one of my favourites from the pair and I'm intrigued by the two new characters/series' that they've introduced in this final chapter and which will be coming from them individually later on.
#ARC kindly received from the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review
September 3, 2022
It’s all coming together now …
In the last book of this fab trilogy you get to experience them really sinking into each other. It’s wonderful to see Kieran grow confidence in his affection, quickly growing into love for Bash. Especially since he’s happy to shout it from the rooftops for all to hear.
I of course enjoyed finally experiencing one of Bash’s little sex parties. Kieran’s reaction to helping Shaw & Trent was hot and everything that followed was so campy like only Bash can make it.
The ending was everything I could’ve expected and/or hoped for. I only wish that I could’ve witnessed Bash being a bridezilla.
In the last book of this fab trilogy you get to experience them really sinking into each other. It’s wonderful to see Kieran grow confidence in his affection, quickly growing into love for Bash. Especially since he’s happy to shout it from the rooftops for all to hear.
I of course enjoyed finally experiencing one of Bash’s little sex parties. Kieran’s reaction to helping Shaw & Trent was hot and everything that followed was so campy like only Bash can make it.
The ending was everything I could’ve expected and/or hoped for. I only wish that I could’ve witnessed Bash being a bridezilla.
September 26, 2021
*** I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review.***
Fantastic conclusion to this wonderfully sweet trilogy. Truth or Dare concludes the epic unexpected opposites-attract love story between Kieran and Bash. Truth or Dare completes all of the remaining story threads in an unapologetically sweet and earnest manner that pulls all the emotional stops along the way.
Bash and Kieran are perfect for one another and seeing them finalize their plans for their life together was a joy to see. I also enjoyed seeing all of the recurring Chicago and South Haven characters. Everyone has a moment in this story and seeing all of the interactions was fun, light-hearted, and comical.
Overall, this trilogy was a joyful experience that I will enjoy revisiting. Bash and Kieran are so smitten with each other and watching their unexpected love story develop and grow is so beautiful. This was the perfect conclusion to their love story and I cannot wait for more in this universe.
Fantastic conclusion to this wonderfully sweet trilogy. Truth or Dare concludes the epic unexpected opposites-attract love story between Kieran and Bash. Truth or Dare completes all of the remaining story threads in an unapologetically sweet and earnest manner that pulls all the emotional stops along the way.
Bash and Kieran are perfect for one another and seeing them finalize their plans for their life together was a joy to see. I also enjoyed seeing all of the recurring Chicago and South Haven characters. Everyone has a moment in this story and seeing all of the interactions was fun, light-hearted, and comical.
Overall, this trilogy was a joyful experience that I will enjoy revisiting. Bash and Kieran are so smitten with each other and watching their unexpected love story develop and grow is so beautiful. This was the perfect conclusion to their love story and I cannot wait for more in this universe.
i-m-a-quitter
September 29, 2021DNF @ 16%
I know, I know, one could argue did I even really give it a chance?
I just cannot be bothered to read this one. Can't get in to these two. We did not, and I repeat DID NOT, need 3 books covering Kieran and Bash's relationship.
At this point, I am just over it and couldn't care less who moves where.
Past experience has told me I am not fan of this duo, but GAH there is NOTHING out to read right now. It's frustrating and sad how little I've read the last few weeks.
Have had no desire to pick this one up, no point forcing it.
I know, I know, one could argue did I even really give it a chance?
I just cannot be bothered to read this one. Can't get in to these two. We did not, and I repeat DID NOT, need 3 books covering Kieran and Bash's relationship.
At this point, I am just over it and couldn't care less who moves where.
Past experience has told me I am not fan of this duo, but GAH there is NOTHING out to read right now. It's frustrating and sad how little I've read the last few weeks.
Have had no desire to pick this one up, no point forcing it.
September 27, 2021
Bash + Kieran #3
Remember how book #2 ended?
Bash and Kieran spent some amazing days on Bash's island -
but Kieran has to go back home to Chicago, right?
And now they don't know how their lives should look like.
They want nothing more than to be together, but where??
Chicago? Bash's island?
Who has to give up their home and friends and family?
LET'S FIND OUT IN THIS FINAL BOOK!
═════════════════
💜 ADORABLE 💜
This was the perfect final book for Bash and Kieran!
It takes them a while to get to that happy end - but we'll get there and it's a beautiful and funny and sexy journey! No drama, no jealous fights, no idiotic unnecessary stuff - which I always hate in romances! Great couple, great friends and family, great book! And we also get teased about two new series by Ella and Brooke! GIMME!
BEAUTIFUL + FUNNY + SEXY + SUNNY ISLANDY M/M ROMANCE!
💜
💜
September 25, 2022
Could have done without 20% of this book but nice to see everything all happily wrapped up.
May 13, 2024
ETA: Listening to the third book in audio now and ahhhhh I just love these two. I love the ease they have together, how effortless they are as a couple and as individuals now that they have each other. I just love Kieran and Bash so so much. Their trilogy is just a delight.
ETA 2: Just a fun, sexy series to listen to again, I love them so much.
OK I LOVE BASH AND KIERAN.
That could be my whole review honestly. I absolutely adore them. There's something about the ease to this story, how it flows and how honestly I have felt like this for the entire trilogy - Bash and Kieran are just so perfect and meant to be. It might not look like that from first glance, but these to are just IT for each other. That's how I have felt reading this trilogy. It's just sweet and FUN and so-so-sexy (seriously, Bash in some of those outfits!)
Now that Kieran and Bash are committed, they have to make that work - and that's going to mean a move for someone. I love how both were fully ready to jump in, thinking of the other, no matter what. I loved that.
I also adored Bash meeting the other Bailey brothers - OMG Bash charming grumpy Sean was perfection. So many great character interactions in this book, which is what I love so much when a series has such a full world around it. I know these guys and I love them and I love seeing them all happy and the found family growing. I just love it.
So yes, while you can totally read this trilogy on its own - I really think you'd enjoy it more having read Ella and Brooke's previous series that all intertwine with this one. Their writing is top notch with this one, and it was just escapism at its finest.
I can't wait for the next books from these authors!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
ETA 2: Just a fun, sexy series to listen to again, I love them so much.
OK I LOVE BASH AND KIERAN.
That could be my whole review honestly. I absolutely adore them. There's something about the ease to this story, how it flows and how honestly I have felt like this for the entire trilogy - Bash and Kieran are just so perfect and meant to be. It might not look like that from first glance, but these to are just IT for each other. That's how I have felt reading this trilogy. It's just sweet and FUN and so-so-sexy (seriously, Bash in some of those outfits!)
Now that Kieran and Bash are committed, they have to make that work - and that's going to mean a move for someone. I love how both were fully ready to jump in, thinking of the other, no matter what. I loved that.
I also adored Bash meeting the other Bailey brothers - OMG Bash charming grumpy Sean was perfection. So many great character interactions in this book, which is what I love so much when a series has such a full world around it. I know these guys and I love them and I love seeing them all happy and the found family growing. I just love it.
So yes, while you can totally read this trilogy on its own - I really think you'd enjoy it more having read Ella and Brooke's previous series that all intertwine with this one. Their writing is top notch with this one, and it was just escapism at its finest.
I can't wait for the next books from these authors!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2021
I decided to see this series through despite not liking the first two. What can I say, I’m a bit of a masochist.
First of all, this should not have been three books. This third one was basically a 200 page epilogue.
Second… this reads like an MF book, but they just changed Bash’s pronouns and sometimes mentioned his male parts.
The biggest reason I gave this the dreaded one star was the blatant stereotyping (gender, sexuality, race) and the absolutely nauseating way Sean reacted to Bash. The way the Bailey brothers reacted to Bash made it seem like they were low key homophobic straight men… but they’re GAY. This book made me HATE Sean. And that made me so mad because I loved him in his series. I mean, I guess if the author’s intent was to get his internalized homophobia across by how he reacted to Bash’s femininity… well… it came across.
I wanted to read a book about the fabulous Bash from 2018. Three years we wait and get… uninspired, unoriginal, remarkably low steam, constant cheesy one liners and puns, and stereotyping of non-masc gay men. By the time I got to the end, I was so uninterested in their HEA I almost stopped before the epilogue.
I’ve decided to not read these authors again, but a part of me hopes that they might consider getting queer or gay sensitivity readers… because a straight person might read this and think it’s a-ok, but all their queer fans are going to see it for what it lacks… the one thing this community has fought for for decades.. authenticity.
First of all, this should not have been three books. This third one was basically a 200 page epilogue.
Second… this reads like an MF book, but they just changed Bash’s pronouns and sometimes mentioned his male parts.
The biggest reason I gave this the dreaded one star was the blatant stereotyping (gender, sexuality, race) and the absolutely nauseating way Sean reacted to Bash. The way the Bailey brothers reacted to Bash made it seem like they were low key homophobic straight men… but they’re GAY. This book made me HATE Sean. And that made me so mad because I loved him in his series. I mean, I guess if the author’s intent was to get his internalized homophobia across by how he reacted to Bash’s femininity… well… it came across.
I wanted to read a book about the fabulous Bash from 2018. Three years we wait and get… uninspired, unoriginal, remarkably low steam, constant cheesy one liners and puns, and stereotyping of non-masc gay men. By the time I got to the end, I was so uninterested in their HEA I almost stopped before the epilogue.
I’ve decided to not read these authors again, but a part of me hopes that they might consider getting queer or gay sensitivity readers… because a straight person might read this and think it’s a-ok, but all their queer fans are going to see it for what it lacks… the one thing this community has fought for for decades.. authenticity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2023
2.5 Stars
Why tf did they add the Sex party?? That was so Unnecessary. Actually this whole book was Unnecessary. this series could have been two books and I would have been fine with it. The fact that they said they didn't want to share but were fine with fu**king in front of everybody?? This book was so disappointing I actually forgot why I loved this series in the first place.
Why tf did they add the Sex party?? That was so Unnecessary. Actually this whole book was Unnecessary. this series could have been two books and I would have been fine with it. The fact that they said they didn't want to share but were fine with fu**king in front of everybody?? This book was so disappointing I actually forgot why I loved this series in the first place.
September 30, 2021
I read this mostly to catch up with the previous couples. I find myself enjoying the part where Bash met the Bailey brothers and then the Bailey brothers met the South Haven gang.
As for Bash and Kieran, oh these lovebirds, for the first time I wish there is some relationship drama for me to angst over.
As for Bash and Kieran, oh these lovebirds, for the first time I wish there is some relationship drama for me to angst over.
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 🙃
September 27, 2021
***AVAILABLE NOW***
3.5 STARS
Bash and Kieran's story is finally at an end. It was filled with light and fun, basically one big HEA.
What did I love?
1. Kieran and Bash are just kind of perfect. They are complete opposites who shouldn't fit but do.
2. Bash has been a beloved character, so it was really great to see him get his HEA and to find his home with Kieran
3. The group of men from both worlds were great. Kieran's family and Bash's found family provided comedy to the romance.
What was missing?
1. Conflict. There wasn't any. Conflict is a must for me as a reader, even the tiniest bit. This just all came together so easily. It truly felt like this story was just chopped up into three parts.
Overall, I love this series. If it was one book, it would have been a solid four star read for me, as there is conflict, but it is resolved in book 2 and no additional true conflict is present in book 3.
Would I still recommend it? Yes, the story for Bash and Kieran is good, and if read together, it would read very much like one solid story with an extended HEA. And, as always, I enjoyed Ella Frank's and Brooke Blain's writing.
ARC review
3.5 STARS
Bash and Kieran's story is finally at an end. It was filled with light and fun, basically one big HEA.
What did I love?
1. Kieran and Bash are just kind of perfect. They are complete opposites who shouldn't fit but do.
2. Bash has been a beloved character, so it was really great to see him get his HEA and to find his home with Kieran
3. The group of men from both worlds were great. Kieran's family and Bash's found family provided comedy to the romance.
What was missing?
1. Conflict. There wasn't any. Conflict is a must for me as a reader, even the tiniest bit. This just all came together so easily. It truly felt like this story was just chopped up into three parts.
Overall, I love this series. If it was one book, it would have been a solid four star read for me, as there is conflict, but it is resolved in book 2 and no additional true conflict is present in book 3.
Would I still recommend it? Yes, the story for Bash and Kieran is good, and if read together, it would read very much like one solid story with an extended HEA. And, as always, I enjoyed Ella Frank's and Brooke Blain's writing.
ARC review
September 22, 2021
This is all about the happily ever after. These two sexy men will figure out their future and then make it happen.
It’s hot! It’s sweet! It’s love for Bash and Kieran. This is the end of their story but just the beginning of their forever.
It’s a light read with so many happy moments to share and cherish. No drama, just a whole lot of love and a uniting of two lives.
A great MM trilogy with sassy Bash and super sexy Kieran and a whole host of wonderful side characters. They will definitely leave you with a smile.
It’s hot! It’s sweet! It’s love for Bash and Kieran. This is the end of their story but just the beginning of their forever.
It’s a light read with so many happy moments to share and cherish. No drama, just a whole lot of love and a uniting of two lives.
A great MM trilogy with sassy Bash and super sexy Kieran and a whole host of wonderful side characters. They will definitely leave you with a smile.
September 28, 2021
I was expecting some big problems, conflict between the guys about their new life together after reading blurb, but it didn't happen at all.
It was filled with light and fun and one big HEA.
We've also met two new guys who will star in two separate series. Jameson Clarke and Hudson Montgomery! Both were intriguing! I'm looking forward to these new series.
It was filled with light and fun and one big HEA.
We've also met two new guys who will star in two separate series. Jameson Clarke and Hudson Montgomery! Both were intriguing! I'm looking forward to these new series.
September 25, 2021
"I'd gone full sailor for the occasion, with white flared pants, a navy and white striped fitted shirt, and a matching sailor hat. Fab-u-lous."
Well, I think that just about sums up the conclusion to this feel-good trilogy from Brooke Blaine and Ella Frank. Truth or Dare was FAB-U-LOUS!
All the loose ends are tied up beautifully, the Bailey brothers and their partners from Chicago, as well as Bash's buddies from South Haven figure strongly, Bash is as hilarious as ever, Kieran and Bash are as perfect (and as steamy🔥🔥) as always and we finally get the HEA we've all been hoping for.
5 fabulously schmooshy stars ✨✨✨✨✨
Well, I think that just about sums up the conclusion to this feel-good trilogy from Brooke Blaine and Ella Frank. Truth or Dare was FAB-U-LOUS!
All the loose ends are tied up beautifully, the Bailey brothers and their partners from Chicago, as well as Bash's buddies from South Haven figure strongly, Bash is as hilarious as ever, Kieran and Bash are as perfect (and as steamy🔥🔥) as always and we finally get the HEA we've all been hoping for.
5 fabulously schmooshy stars ✨✨✨✨✨
October 8, 2021
This was a little disappointing. The whole series could be condensed into 1 or 1.5 books. Too many sex scenes. Bash was not the Bash I knew in the previous series. Whole series is full of flirty banter. Nobody talks about serious topics. The finances of the main characters (one was hugely rich) was glossed over or discussed in a page or less. Instead, the whole book consists of parties after parties. I would prefer more emotional scenes instead of sexy scenes.
September 27, 2021
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Truth or Dare is like an extended HEA for Kieran and Bash and was a super sweet ending for these characters. I loved seeing them still working through how their lives would be now that they were both 100% into the relationship. It was a pretty light read but also still had some great smexy scenes that I really enjoyed.
Overall, it was a fun read and a good ending to this trilogy. And I did debate on the rating for a night but ultimately went with my initial 3 star since honestly even though this was an enjoyable read it didn't really add anything to the trilogy.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Truth or Dare is like an extended HEA for Kieran and Bash and was a super sweet ending for these characters. I loved seeing them still working through how their lives would be now that they were both 100% into the relationship. It was a pretty light read but also still had some great smexy scenes that I really enjoyed.
Overall, it was a fun read and a good ending to this trilogy. And I did debate on the rating for a night but ultimately went with my initial 3 star since honestly even though this was an enjoyable read it didn't really add anything to the trilogy.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2022
I am going to miss Kieran and Bash. I had so much fun reading this. Having said that, as much as I enjoyed this series it isn't going to be for everyone. There really wasn't a strong plot and everything after Kieran's decision to move in with Bash felt like an extended epilogue. It was 90% flirting, lovemaking, and gushing over having found someone special.... basically, it was a story that I'd normally not like, but for whatever reason was in the right headspace to enjoy. I loved ALL of the side characters and was just as excited about the developments in their relationships as I was with those of the main characters. The narration of this series was perfection. I would not have enjoyed it as much as I did without it.
March 24, 2022
Kieran y Bash ya decidos a que su relacion es verdadera y que sus sentimientos son fuertes, ahora solo queda decidir como manejar una relacion a larga distancia, o cual de ellos debera mudarse para poder estar juntos. Asi que ahora el problema es esperar, esperar a que el trabajo sonado de Kieran en Savanah o a que Bash active sus oficinas en Chicago, pero cada uno por su lado, la separacion se hace dificil y quizas la decision no sea tan dificil despues de todo para eso esta el amor.
Pero Bash tambien debera conocer a la familia de Kieran y esperar que esta lo "adore", asi que como Kieran se gano el respeto de su "familia" en South Heaven, ahora el debera hacer lo mismo con la familia de Kieran.
Solo les queda dejar el pasado atras y afrontar el futuro con esperanzas y alegria de una vida mejor.
El final de esta trilogia es dulce, romantico y especial, todo lo que esperabas que fuera, ademas que nos abre a algunos personajes de nuevas series de los autores que probablemente valga la pena leer mas adelante. Asi que si, esta serie vale la pena leerla, hay un par de cosas que quizas no me terminaron de cuadrar, pero el obejtivo de la trilogia se cumplio, me hizo pasar un rato tranquilo, olvidando mi mundo y adentrandome a un dulce romance entre esta pareja que realmente merecia una trilogia.
Ambos personajes son interesantes desde todos los puntos de vista, sin embargo Kieran y Bash comparten muy poco de su pasado, y quizas resulte bien en estos libros, porque deberiamos saber mucho mas de los personajes de las series anteriores, pero me hubiera gustado que compartieran algun tipo de conversacion (a forma de broma) de la diferencia de sus gustos o inicios en la vida, tal vez algun chiste sobre colocar un poste de bombero dentro de la casa o algo asi, pero bueno, no soy la escritora y debo respetar su imagen de los personajes.
En fin, me gusto mucho esta trilogia, y es seguro que leere series de ambas autoras por separados o si vuelven a colaborar.
Pero Bash tambien debera conocer a la familia de Kieran y esperar que esta lo "adore", asi que como Kieran se gano el respeto de su "familia" en South Heaven, ahora el debera hacer lo mismo con la familia de Kieran.
Solo les queda dejar el pasado atras y afrontar el futuro con esperanzas y alegria de una vida mejor.
El final de esta trilogia es dulce, romantico y especial, todo lo que esperabas que fuera, ademas que nos abre a algunos personajes de nuevas series de los autores que probablemente valga la pena leer mas adelante. Asi que si, esta serie vale la pena leerla, hay un par de cosas que quizas no me terminaron de cuadrar, pero el obejtivo de la trilogia se cumplio, me hizo pasar un rato tranquilo, olvidando mi mundo y adentrandome a un dulce romance entre esta pareja que realmente merecia una trilogia.
Ambos personajes son interesantes desde todos los puntos de vista, sin embargo Kieran y Bash comparten muy poco de su pasado, y quizas resulte bien en estos libros, porque deberiamos saber mucho mas de los personajes de las series anteriores, pero me hubiera gustado que compartieran algun tipo de conversacion (a forma de broma) de la diferencia de sus gustos o inicios en la vida, tal vez algun chiste sobre colocar un poste de bombero dentro de la casa o algo asi, pero bueno, no soy la escritora y debo respetar su imagen de los personajes.
En fin, me gusto mucho esta trilogia, y es seguro que leere series de ambas autoras por separados o si vuelven a colaborar.
February 24, 2023
Sebastian (Bash) Vogel CEO of HiTech company and multimillionaire is a high maintenance gay man. Visiting Chicago from his home on South Haven, he had to be rescued from a fire at a function he was attending. He was dressed in a red sequinned gown and 5 inch high heels at the time of rescue.
Kieran Bailey is Lieutenant of a Team at one of Chicago’s Finest Firefighter Stations and called to a fire scene, he just grabbed the woman, threw her over his shoulder and escaped the building. A few days later she turns up at the Fire station to thank the rescue team. Only this time there is no dress or high heels or makeup. “She” is a man and Kieran Bailey chin hits the deck when he recognises the eyes. Kieran is a “straight” man but still recognises beauty when he sees it. After all, he has two brothers who are in relationships with very good looking men. His team welcome the trays of coffee and sandwiches that Bash brought. Bash departs with a “See you around Lieutenant”.
Always being determined to get what he wants Bash makes it his business to “see Kieran around”. After several meets and a pub gathering things get a lot hotter than a fire between Bash and Kieran.
Given their home locations and the distance between them, it takes the 3 books to tell of their relationship development. Kieran has to figure out how he’s gone from being a real ladies man to maybe liking a man.
The whole series is an angst free lovely story, with great banter between the two MC’s as well as very hot steamy occasions whenever they get the chance.
It is necessary to read this “Dare To Try” series in sequence to get the full story from start to finish.
Kieran Bailey is Lieutenant of a Team at one of Chicago’s Finest Firefighter Stations and called to a fire scene, he just grabbed the woman, threw her over his shoulder and escaped the building. A few days later she turns up at the Fire station to thank the rescue team. Only this time there is no dress or high heels or makeup. “She” is a man and Kieran Bailey chin hits the deck when he recognises the eyes. Kieran is a “straight” man but still recognises beauty when he sees it. After all, he has two brothers who are in relationships with very good looking men. His team welcome the trays of coffee and sandwiches that Bash brought. Bash departs with a “See you around Lieutenant”.
Always being determined to get what he wants Bash makes it his business to “see Kieran around”. After several meets and a pub gathering things get a lot hotter than a fire between Bash and Kieran.
Given their home locations and the distance between them, it takes the 3 books to tell of their relationship development. Kieran has to figure out how he’s gone from being a real ladies man to maybe liking a man.
The whole series is an angst free lovely story, with great banter between the two MC’s as well as very hot steamy occasions whenever they get the chance.
It is necessary to read this “Dare To Try” series in sequence to get the full story from start to finish.
November 29, 2022
3.5
So happy Kieran and Bash got their HEA! BUT this book did seem to drag on a bit and I wish there'd been more Henri because I miss that guy 😂
So happy Kieran and Bash got their HEA! BUT this book did seem to drag on a bit and I wish there'd been more Henri because I miss that guy 😂
October 16, 2021
This is the conclusion to Bash and Kieran's story. I'll be honest and I'm also the minority, Bash did not live up to who he was in the South Haven series and I found myself overwhelmingly bored through this whole story.
I don't know why we needed this story told over three books. It could have been done in two. I love Frank and Blaine and will continue to read their books and I'm looking forward to other character's stories they introduced. But this one just made me irrationally angry that I wasted time reading it.
I don't know why we needed this story told over three books. It could have been done in two. I love Frank and Blaine and will continue to read their books and I'm looking forward to other character's stories they introduced. But this one just made me irrationally angry that I wasted time reading it.
October 12, 2021
Pfff, meh. El peor de la serie.
September 24, 2021
ARC received from authors for an honest review
#Bashan's story came to its wonderful conclusion in Truth or Dare, and for me it was just one beautiful page after another
I loved that even while Kieran and Bash have some big, life changing decisions to make, there is no OTT, unnecessary drama, no stupid miscommunications, nothing that will have you pulling your hair out.
They acted like the two adults in love, making a life together - just like they should.
Loved seeing the other Bailey brothers and their lovelies.
I will say that seeing Xander the way he was in this one cracked me up.
I am going to miss being right int heir lives, but I know that this is not going to be the last we see of them.
Bravo Brooke and Ella on another faaaabulous series
PS I need pictures of that g-string - you know what I am talking about!
a>
#Bashan's story came to its wonderful conclusion in Truth or Dare, and for me it was just one beautiful page after another
I loved that even while Kieran and Bash have some big, life changing decisions to make, there is no OTT, unnecessary drama, no stupid miscommunications, nothing that will have you pulling your hair out.
They acted like the two adults in love, making a life together - just like they should.
Loved seeing the other Bailey brothers and their lovelies.
I will say that seeing Xander the way he was in this one cracked me up.
I am going to miss being right int heir lives, but I know that this is not going to be the last we see of them.
Bravo Brooke and Ella on another faaaabulous series
PS I need pictures of that g-string - you know what I am talking about!
a>
October 1, 2021
I wish I understood the intent of making this story a trilogy. I liked book one of the series, but after reading book two, I couldn't help but ask: What's the point with this? And after reading book three, I will ask again: Why did this need three books to tell this story?
I've been thinking on why I had such a hard time with this series, and I think it comes down to expectations that were set from the first two South Haven books. This is a major divergence from those, and by the reviews, it looks like it worked for many people. I'm just not one of them.
It was strange how nothing really happened. In this book, they work out where to live and how they'll start their life together, but even that was presented without any real drama or turmoil. It all flowed like a fairytale, minus the conflict and adversary, which makes for a pretty lackluster story. I think this series could have been developed as one solid novel, which would have perhaps given the authors more time to thoughtfully build a story arch with intentional plotlines and multi-dimensional MCs.
Bash was always an intriguing character. His presence was larger than life and he had always shown up as fun and flirty and viciously loyal to his friends. I was incredibly curious to learn his story and see who he'd end up with, ever since A Little Bit Like Love. The other characters from South Haven each had a well-developed background with engaging stories and unique perspectives and magnetic chemistry. They felt real in their scenes and interactions. The dialogue had substance and revealed emotion. There was authenticity to their experiences. This book (and the whole series tbh) fell flat in every area for me. I didn't actually feel the chemistry between these two guys at all. It felt rushed and shallow, relying on physical attraction, brief banter, and an unusual dining experience to convince readers that their connection was soul-changing. What are the unbreakable threads tying them together? I still don't know the answer to that. I had hoped the third book would spend time illuminating exactly why these characters need to be together. How do they deeply and truly affect each other? It read like one author said, "I have an incredibly interesting character that I am going to write a story about." And the other author said, "I have a hot character that I can make gay to be with your character so that we can combine our stories." I simply don't buy anything about this. Where is Kieran's struggle? Where is the deep insight into Bash? I was so excited after I read the first two South Haven books to get his story and am shocked by how vapid it is. I'm easy to please with sex scenes, so the fact that I was completely turned off by their non-stop cheesy dialogue while making out in their first scene together in this book says something. These two are cringe-y together. There was NO depth. I can't tell you anything about Bash now that I couldn't have told you three books ago, and that's seems like a problem. Reading this book was like looking at a stranger's vacation pictures. There was a lot of telling, no being drawn into it, no grit, no hardship, no truths, no evolution - Kieran didn't even need time to process anything about what is a pretty major revelation. Everything was so tidy. Give me something to connect with. I'm just frustrated and wish Brooke Blaine would have written Bash's book on her own and finished out the South Haven series as strongly as it started. And I have liked a few of Ella Frank's books, but I have noticed this trend of producing shorter works and putting them in a series, which is fine if there is a reason to have it be a series. Is it the money driving this? I'm honestly asking, because I can't think of another reason why this wouldn't have been a single novel. I'm not sure what else to say. This book is much like the second one, so if you are on the fence about finishing the series, I'm not sure I'd recommend spending your time on it.
I've been thinking on why I had such a hard time with this series, and I think it comes down to expectations that were set from the first two South Haven books. This is a major divergence from those, and by the reviews, it looks like it worked for many people. I'm just not one of them.
It was strange how nothing really happened. In this book, they work out where to live and how they'll start their life together, but even that was presented without any real drama or turmoil. It all flowed like a fairytale, minus the conflict and adversary, which makes for a pretty lackluster story. I think this series could have been developed as one solid novel, which would have perhaps given the authors more time to thoughtfully build a story arch with intentional plotlines and multi-dimensional MCs.
Bash was always an intriguing character. His presence was larger than life and he had always shown up as fun and flirty and viciously loyal to his friends. I was incredibly curious to learn his story and see who he'd end up with, ever since A Little Bit Like Love. The other characters from South Haven each had a well-developed background with engaging stories and unique perspectives and magnetic chemistry. They felt real in their scenes and interactions. The dialogue had substance and revealed emotion. There was authenticity to their experiences. This book (and the whole series tbh) fell flat in every area for me. I didn't actually feel the chemistry between these two guys at all. It felt rushed and shallow, relying on physical attraction, brief banter, and an unusual dining experience to convince readers that their connection was soul-changing. What are the unbreakable threads tying them together? I still don't know the answer to that. I had hoped the third book would spend time illuminating exactly why these characters need to be together. How do they deeply and truly affect each other? It read like one author said, "I have an incredibly interesting character that I am going to write a story about." And the other author said, "I have a hot character that I can make gay to be with your character so that we can combine our stories." I simply don't buy anything about this. Where is Kieran's struggle? Where is the deep insight into Bash? I was so excited after I read the first two South Haven books to get his story and am shocked by how vapid it is. I'm easy to please with sex scenes, so the fact that I was completely turned off by their non-stop cheesy dialogue while making out in their first scene together in this book says something. These two are cringe-y together. There was NO depth. I can't tell you anything about Bash now that I couldn't have told you three books ago, and that's seems like a problem. Reading this book was like looking at a stranger's vacation pictures. There was a lot of telling, no being drawn into it, no grit, no hardship, no truths, no evolution - Kieran didn't even need time to process anything about what is a pretty major revelation. Everything was so tidy. Give me something to connect with. I'm just frustrated and wish Brooke Blaine would have written Bash's book on her own and finished out the South Haven series as strongly as it started. And I have liked a few of Ella Frank's books, but I have noticed this trend of producing shorter works and putting them in a series, which is fine if there is a reason to have it be a series. Is it the money driving this? I'm honestly asking, because I can't think of another reason why this wouldn't have been a single novel. I'm not sure what else to say. This book is much like the second one, so if you are on the fence about finishing the series, I'm not sure I'd recommend spending your time on it.
October 15, 2021
Great Ending!
I loved this story and yes I'd call it a story rather than a series since it was one divided into three parts.
I loved Keiran and Bash. Of course Bash was unapologetically himself all throught and was the kind of high maintenance that you either love, or find too OTT. I found his sense of humour irreverent in the best way and thought his pairing with Keiran was just right.
I loved how these two authors managed to merge two worlds together seamlessly and as someone who'd read all the books from both, I found it really entertaining.
Recommended for all those who want to have a low drama, low angst, Steamy, fun read. Very well done!
I loved this story and yes I'd call it a story rather than a series since it was one divided into three parts.
I loved Keiran and Bash. Of course Bash was unapologetically himself all throught and was the kind of high maintenance that you either love, or find too OTT. I found his sense of humour irreverent in the best way and thought his pairing with Keiran was just right.
I loved how these two authors managed to merge two worlds together seamlessly and as someone who'd read all the books from both, I found it really entertaining.
Recommended for all those who want to have a low drama, low angst, Steamy, fun read. Very well done!
September 30, 2021
In this final instalment of this series, we have Bash and Kieran's conclusion. Like the previous books in the series, I really enjoyed this one. Our main issue in this one is if the long distance relationship is something they can work out and how they will make this happen. Will one of them eventually end up moving elsewhere or will the distance between them pull them further apart?
I have to say that this book didn't have as much angst as I expected, as I saw that outcome coming from the previous book and the solution came pretty early on the book. As much as I really loved this series and these characters and I was smiling or swooning the whole time, I felt a bit more underwhelmed in this one. In my opinion this could have been a duet instead of a 3 part series. The plot didn't give as much and felt like it was being dragged.
Overall, I really enjoyed these books and I'd love to read the books with the characters I met on this one.
I have to say that this book didn't have as much angst as I expected, as I saw that outcome coming from the previous book and the solution came pretty early on the book. As much as I really loved this series and these characters and I was smiling or swooning the whole time, I felt a bit more underwhelmed in this one. In my opinion this could have been a duet instead of a 3 part series. The plot didn't give as much and felt like it was being dragged.
Overall, I really enjoyed these books and I'd love to read the books with the characters I met on this one.
September 29, 2021
Aww Bash!😍😍😍
Simply perfect.
I loved reading this series so much and their final book was so good too, I'm happy now. Happy, that finally Bash found his HEA and happy that it was this beautiful and special.
Kieran and the Bailey's are just something else, I love them all and their brotherly banter are always fun. And Bash, gosh, I have no words for him, he just simply pefect, just as his story.
Oh, and the South Heaven gang, holymoly! They are lovely and funny too. Love, love loooooove this series and the world Ella&Brooke created for their characters. Can't wait for the next story by them.
Simply perfect.
I loved reading this series so much and their final book was so good too, I'm happy now. Happy, that finally Bash found his HEA and happy that it was this beautiful and special.
Kieran and the Bailey's are just something else, I love them all and their brotherly banter are always fun. And Bash, gosh, I have no words for him, he just simply pefect, just as his story.
Oh, and the South Heaven gang, holymoly! They are lovely and funny too. Love, love loooooove this series and the world Ella&Brooke created for their characters. Can't wait for the next story by them.
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