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Shattered by the past

Michael Novak was a US Marshal with his whole life figured out. Right up until the woman he called partner betrayed him. He’s been hiding in Bliss, CO, trying to pull himself out of the darkness. The only bright light is Lucy Carson. Something about Trio’s favorite waitress calls to him, but he can’t trust his instincts anymore.

Yearning for the future

Lucy has loved Tyler since they were kids, but he never seemed to feel the same way. She worried she would never want a man the way she does Ty, and then Michael grumbled his way into her world. Beyond the broody exterior she sees a burning fire in his eyes, and she is drawn to that flame.

The time is finally right

Ty knows Lucy is the one for him, but Lucy wrote him off romantically long ago. If he could get her to see him in a different light, he knows she would realize that they’re perfect for each other. His obstacle is the town’s reclusive former lawman, Michael. But this is Bliss. A rival can turn into a partner for the right woman. And Lucy is definitely the right woman.

Ty approaches Michael with a plan to get Lucy between them. A bargain is made, and Lucy is their target. But Lucy is already in much more dangerous crosshairs. Murder has come to Bliss, and Lucy is at the center of the investigation.

361 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 16, 2021

133 people are currently reading
337 people want to read

About the author

Sophie Oak

46 books1,678 followers
A lifetime devotee to the written word, Sophie published her first novel this year. Prior to becoming a novelist, she worked in theater and comic books. She lives in Fort Worth, Texas with her husband and three precocious children, who wonder when mom is going to write a book they will be allowed to read. Her answer: probably never. Sophie believes in happy endings for everyone, no matter how extreme the story. Her stories may feature some of the fringe elements of sexuality, but at heart they are always about love.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
Profile Image for Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾.
2,314 reviews13.7k followers
November 16, 2021
4 STARS
He wanted Lucy, and he liked having Ty around. They were almost too good to be true. He’d learned it was dangerous to want things.

I don't care how many books are in this series, I will never grow tired of it. The only thing I love more than Lexi's MFM menage are her MMF menage. This was the former, and it happened to feature one of my most anticipated characters; the damaged Michael.

WARNING, SPOILER FOR PREVIOUS BOOK

Ever since we saw the fallout of Michael's relationship in the previous book, you just knew his road toward his HEA would be a good one. This is a man who was betrayed by the woman he loved who turned out not to be who he thought she was and it cost him everything. Now, two years later, he's still bitter, angry, and punishing himself for not seeing the signs of her betrayal.

Ty and Lucy are best friends, but Lucy never thought they'd be anything more since Ty turned her down back in high school. She's been lusting quietly after Michael, but she doesn't think he's interested in her either. Unbeknown to Lucy, Ty has been in love with her for years. He regrets all the time they've wasted, but now that he's ready to confess his feelings for her, she doesn't buy it because the man has spent years sowing his wild oats with every female within vicinity. I gotta say, I loved this about Lucy, that she doesn't just accept his feelings and fully calls him on his BS. Michael has wanted her too, but of course he no longer trusts or believes in love. Cliche? A bit. Did I care? Not even a little.

If I can take one quote that describes this book to perfection...
One of the things he’d started to suspect was that Ty was an overgrown Golden Retriever. Handsome. Athletic. Looked like he could take down the world if he wanted to, but he almost never wanted to. Sometimes that dumbass loyal Golden needed a Rottweiler best friend.

I laughed so hard at that quote, because it describes Ty to a T. He really is like an overgrown puppy. At times almost a little too much so. But he was also the light and sweet relief to Michael's brood. I loved how they balanced each other and how each brought something different to Lucy. There were even hints to something more than friendship for these two, but sadly it never got there. I'm just a little bitter about it.

In true Bliss fashion there's a suspense plot with a murder and mystery, which I really enjoyed. Overall another fun installment in one of my guilty pleasure series.

ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review

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Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
3,010 reviews799 followers
November 13, 2021
Can I move to Bliss? I just simply adore every single character in this series. I love small towns and this one sounds like it would be amazing to live in. Everyone takes care of each other and has each others backs. They are also very nosy and gossip but not in a mean spirit. Every time I crack open one of these books, they bring a smile to my face. I think this author could just write about all the characters in this town and not focus on any one romance and I would be happy just to see what everyone is getting up to.

I will say that I started out not so sure of this new throuple. Michael and Ty just seem so different form each other that I couldn't see it. I could see Lucy with one or the other but I had a hard time envisioning all three of them together due to the difference in age, experience and personalities of Michael and Ty. I don't know how she did it, but the author managed to make them fit perfectly. I even started to enjoy the differences between these two because of the funny moments it brought to the story.

I'm looking forward to more in the series. I loved getting a look into some possible new couples/throuples to come. I especially enjoy that Ian Taggart from Master & Mercenarie's series is making his appearances in these books. This was another fun read!
Profile Image for Namera [The Literary Invertebrate].
1,432 reviews3,761 followers
did-not-finish
November 29, 2021
Okay, I've decided I'm not going to rate this one.

I waited six years to read it, and this series is general is fabulous. Unfortunately, this book has a trope I really hate - best friends to lovers where the 'best friend' in question, one of the heroes, is a manwhore who had hook-ups even after the realisation of his supposed 'love'. In RH I can relax my safety standards, since the fact the heroine gets two heroes makes things a bit easier, but I never connected with any of the characters in this book.

Onwards and upwards, though - I'm just glad this series is on the move again!

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Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
November 16, 2021
With Far From Bliss, it felt good to return to the quirky little Colorado town, although we missed some of the characters that make the town so unique. They are mentioned but not present. No, this was a murder mystery, where the prospective killers and investigative lawmen are snow-bound together at the resort near town. Throw in the complication of a love triangle, Bliss style, and you have the makings of a first rate and funny who-done-it, in the style of the television show, Murder She Wrote.

Lucy has been in love with Ty since they were children. Ty also loves Lucy, but a series of missteps complicated by pride and jealousy has left them as friends but not lovers. Ty sees Lucy’s interest in wounded warrior Mike, who has holed himself up in an unheated cabin notorious for outdoor plumbing, and rather than throwing down with him, comes up with a Bliss-type cure-they should share Lucy.

But there are lots of complications in the way. First is Michael himself-is he ready to move on from the betrayal inflicted by his former lover? How will he react to what he sees as another betrayal?

Then we have the fact that Lucy is accused of murdering a wealthy man who refused to take “No” for an answer when he accosted her. With a swift knee to strategic places, Lucy took care of his assault, but he is gunning for revenge. Can she prove her innocence, especially with the family of the murdered man setting her up to take the blame?

Overall, this was a delightful read, with well-drawn and sympathetic characters, a plot full of twists and turns, and a town that know how to protect its own.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Nadine Bookaholic.
3,728 reviews528 followers
November 18, 2021
Welcome to Bliss Colorado, where throuples are the norm.

I love being back in Bliss, this series is not only fun because of all of the nosey inhabitants but because I know we are going to have a juicy story, both in the romance department and in the mystery/suspense department as well. This is Ty, Michael, and Lucy's story.

There is a lot going on in this story, so much that I may stumble over a spoiler so instead of accidentally letting that happen I will say that this was a steamy read that will have you at the edge of you seat with anticipation on wondering if the three of them can really find happiness together. There is quite a bit of angst in this story, how could there not be when Lucy is in the center of a murder investigation....but come on if you have read any of the previous books you know lovable Lucy, do you really think she would do something like that? But with Michael's past he's questioning everything....

If you enjoy Steamy Romantic Suspense, Menage Romances, Best Friends to Lovers Romances, Opposites Attract Romances, or Small Town Romances I would recommend this book to you.

Happy Reading!!!

Find out more here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewFFB

far from bliss by lexi blake

Nadine's Obsessed with Books **I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can find me here:  https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Profile Image for Aղցela W..
4,523 reviews320 followers
March 21, 2022
This was book 12 in the "Nights in Bliss, Colorado" series. I love this town. This was a really good book Lucy has been in love with Ty for years but she saw him as a manwhore. We first met Michael Novak in book 5 he is a US Marshall who was sent to protect Alexei Markov only his ex fiance Jessie sold him out she also drugged Michael. He has spent the last few years living on the mountain in a cabin that doesn't have a toilet. Lucy has spent her life taking care of her siblings has the oldest she thought it was her job. Ty is finally making his move he has always looked out for Lucy making sure she ate or her car is working. Michael is ready to rejoin the living he has been watching Lucy but he doesn't trust himself to make the right choice when he sees Ty kissing her he decides not to get involved when he leaves Ty follows him a they form a plan to go after her together. This was a good read with some misunderstandings along the way. When Lucy is accosted by a customer she handles it but the customer comes back and threatened her, but she didn't tell the guys. Lucy gets a new job at the resort. While at a party the customer that she had the conflict with dies she becomes the prime suspect and Michael thinks he has been fooled by another woman he did not believe her when she told him he didn't do it. Michael had to do some soul searching. I liked that the citizens of Bliss stood by Lucy and helped to prove she didn't do it. I liked that Michael was able to come to terms with his past and to start to forgive his ex first by talking to her sister while they were all snowed in at the resort and the ex came to him m in a dream. This book had some good sex scenes in it. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling and I also liked the narrators as I read and listened to this book. I can't wait to read the next book in Bliss.
Profile Image for Sissy's Romance Book Review .
8,992 reviews16 followers
March 9, 2023
Far From Bliss by Lexi Blake is book 12 in the Nights in Bliss, Colorado. This is the story of Lucy Carson. Lucy has always had feeling for Ty but they don't seem to go anywhere. Then Michael who has come to Bliss to lay low and get over a betrayal by his work partner catches her eye. This was a hot story. Loved it.
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews490 followers
November 17, 2021
Sexy, steamy, emotional and oh so quirky…

I love heading back to Bliss every chance this author gives me! The town itself, open to love being expressed however it can, has collected the quirkiest (most endearing and interesting!) residents I could hope to find. The circumstances Bliss-ians find themselves in, how they react and work through them, and how love fits into it all, is what makes these reads so addictive…

Right now was the time for Michael, Ty and Lucy. Different life experiences, very different perspectives on what their relationship could be, yet bound by mutual attraction and love. Michael was tortured by a loss he couldn’t measure, retreating from life and everyone he knew. Contemplating a relationship with one person – let alone two – seemed impossible. Lucy was putting one foot forward as usual, focused on ensuring her family got what they needed to not only survive but thrive. That didn’t mean she wasn’t open for happiness – and she hoped they were too. Ty, well he was going to be glue that brought them all together. Moving from friend-zone to lovers was part of an orchestrated plan that, fortunately, was going to blow up to include so much more… Someone more!

I laughed, I commiserated, I flipped each page, eager to see what turn their story would take – there were a few! And find out which residents of Bliss were going to meddle (aka support) in the latest lover’s courtship.

So much fun! A read, a series, I can’t recommend highly enough. ~Diane, 5 stars
Profile Image for Tanja OMGReads.
2,485 reviews56 followers
November 14, 2021
It's been a hot minute since I started reading Lexi Blake aka Sophie Oak and I'm already a fan.

This is my first book in the series I with what I've read I've been missing out on a lot of fun. This town is downright hilarious with everyone up in each other's business trying to help them find HEA.
This trio had my attention from the very first page. I can't imagine going through what Michael went through. I love the relationship between Ty and Lucy. All three they created a perfect balance: Ty with his easy-going personality, Lucy with her need to make sure everyone is taken care of and Michael and his need to protect the ones he loves. It was a touch and go there for a minute where I wasn't sure if they could make it but love and trust made them see that the only way out of it is to stand together and fight against their enemy.

My TBR is a mile long and as of this moment it's gotten a bit longer.


***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Profile Image for Kat.
960 reviews37 followers
April 22, 2022
I loved this! I just love being back in Bliss… There’s only one thing that would have elevated this to a 5 star for me. IYKYK.
Profile Image for Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance).
2,156 reviews72 followers
November 10, 2021
All the love, family, fun, and smexy good times that continue to draw me back to Bliss and Lexi Blake books over and over again.

This is the first original Bliss book that Lexi has written in a few years and it was like putting on a cozy, warm sweater, eating comfort food, or reading your favorite book. Yes, it was absolutely perfect.  

Lucy and Ty grew up together and naturally had a friendship bond, but neither had ever stepped out of the friendzone with one another until Ty comes to claim her, declaring his love for his clueless, but adorable girl-friend.

Lucy doesn't exactly take the news well...Ty bumbles everything in his life and he's sort of like a growing puppy dog who hasn't grown into his big feet. He's happy, sunshiny and just charges forward without thinking things through, except when he approaches Michael Novak about being their third in a potential relationship.

Ty also doesn't miss much and he's noticed the looks that both Lucy and Michael have been throwing each other over the past year and while that might have spurred Ty to throw his plan in action, he also realizes that he lives in the town of Bliss where throuples are more of the norm than not.

Michael is a broken man, living alone with only his rage keeping him warm. He may be the link to Lucy and Ty's dysfunctional relationship, but he can't promise anything permanent, he's been burned in the worst way possible and he can never offer his heart again, especially when he doesn't have one.

There are so many moments that made me chuckle and most of them involved Ty just being himself. The same is most certainly said regarding the other men of Bliss when they all get together because they are just clueless without their powerful women, but that is what I love about Lexi's books, while they revolve around dominant men in the bedroom (which is hot), it's always the women who have the power when it comes to the matters of the heart, home, and just plain getting things done.

I never fail to fall in love with how these throuples all connect in their own way and Lucy, Ty, and Michael were unique in their relationship, whether it was individually or all together. This was a great addition to the Bliss series.
Profile Image for Dar.
4,535 reviews92 followers
November 9, 2021
“There are a couple of things you learn to do as a citizen of Bliss. Don’t f@*k with the beekeeper who supplies Stella’s creamed honey. Aliens like to probe you so eat your beets. And stay calm when someone pulls a gun because someone always pulls a gun.”

Sigh, I completely and utterly loved this menage romance, because #1, it is set in my happy place, #2 it has two smokin’ hot, yet completely different, men vying for our heroine’s attention, and #3, they decide to share rather than compete! There is some mystery, because it is Bliss, and bad things happen right along with the good. Some of our favourite townsfolk are also around, because how can it be Bliss without meddling? We also learn a bit more about some other people, and get a deeper insight into how they fit. Oh, and there is someone new, related to the Dallas crew of McKay-Taggart. But the core is our two best friends with one realizing they have been mis-reading the situation for years, and the other trying to finally make his move and failing. Then we have the stubborn grump, thinking he is ready to make a move, but not sure, but maybe, and definitely possibly soon. None of these three would work as a duo, and it is apparent they definitely can work as a trio, if they can move past their perceptions, trust in themselves, and allow the others in.

There are laughs, there are cringey moments, there is definitely attraction and steam, there is heart and caring, and there is a town that cares about the people who live there, and take care of their own. There is also an OMG WHAT WAS THAT ending that whets your appetite and has you salivating for the next book in the series!!!!!
Profile Image for Yvette | The Saucy Bookshelf.
235 reviews19 followers
November 10, 2021
Ohhhh… it was a true delight to go back to the town of Bliss, Colorado! I have loved every book in this series. The characters are brilliant as you expect from Lexi Blake (writing as Sophie Oak).

This is the first original book in the series Lexi has written in quite some time and I LOVED it so much. I have never not enjoyed a book of Lexi’s, she is such a talented author. The plot, the twists and turns and characters are all so flawlessly written. I always know I’m going to enjoy her books.

This book, book 12 in the series was centred mainly around Michael, but also Ty and Lucy.

Michael, has been through a lot. He has so much rage and anger inside him. He is unwilling to get into anything committed with regards to a relationship as he’s been hurt in the worst way before.💔

Ty is HILARIOUS, he just goes head first into things without thinking. He had me laughing out loud a few times! He’s a happy go lucky kinda guy.♥️

Lucy grew up with Ty so they have a strong bonded friendship. But she has caught the eye of a gorgeous man around town too.. 🔥

I love the town of Bliss with all its quirkiness. There are a lot of throuples living there so this isn’t out of the norm. I love all the guys in town. They are honestly brilliant. Very Dominant, but can be so funny too.

Thank you for another fabulous book Lexi 📚♥️
Profile Image for Darcy.
14.4k reviews543 followers
November 25, 2021
It's always fun to be back in Bliss, the town is crazy, in the best way. I think this is one of the few fictional places I would like to live, due to the craziness.

The trio in this book is unexpected, Lucy, Tyler (who are life long best friends who have had a crush on each other for years) and Michael (the lone wolf outsider that came to town during some crazy shit). Michael and Tyler are so different from each other that, that along made me think this wouldn't/couldn't work between them. But oddly enough it does, both Tyler and Michael bring out something in the other that makes a relationship with Lucy work. I liked how the men were forced to talk things out before hand, the brutal honesty Michael had about a potential relationship and what that would mean between the men was good. It helped later on when things started to get screwed up. Michael let his past color what he knew wasn't true and wasn't there to support Lucy when she needed help and support the most.

When everything came out in the end, things happened about how I thought. It's too bad that Lucy was caught in the storm, a good thing for her that she had her men to lean on in the end. I liked how the three of them are facing the future, together and living exactly where they want, in Bliss.
Profile Image for Booklover Judy Lynn.
1,644 reviews30 followers
November 10, 2021
4.5 STARS
This is book #12 of the Bliss series and the first new addition to it in a while. It is written as a standalone without a cliffhanger and with a HEA. Prior to reading this, I had only read book one in the series. As I was reading. I could tell that the characters from previous novels play important roles in this one and that there are many easter eggs for readers who have read the whole series. It is written in third person from three POV.
The characters are well written, especially Michael. The story revolves around the growth of them as a unit, but more about Michael’s growth and his ability to overcome his feelings about his past. I love his evolution and the roles that both Lucy and Ty play in his recovery. I love the friendships he has formed in the town and the support they offer him. I loved Ty and his outgoing sunny personality. I loved his positive outlook and his ability to bend without becoming subordinate in the relationship. Lucy was a sweetheart. I love her acceptance of Michael, and her strength when dealing with the adversities she faces in the story. The heat and the tenderness between the characters is heartfelt and swoony. I adore the relationship that Ty and Michael form. They are friends, yet more as they share tender feelings for each other and are open to the possibility that they could be even more in the future. This book contains steamy menage scenes, some drama, and a lot of feels as the characters navigate internal and external adversity to their HEA but prevail.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
Profile Image for Kimberly / Love Notes Book Blog.
2,616 reviews148 followers
November 16, 2021
3.5-3.75 stars. This was a pretty good read. Far from Bliss is book twelve in the Nights in Bliss series and is Michael, Ty and Lucy's book. Ty and Lucy grew up together as best friends in Bliss. Lucy has always crushed on Ty, and he on her, but there was a miscommunication and they never got together. She also has feelings for Michael. He is a former US Marshal now living in Bliss with a tragic past. Both men are ready to act on their feelings for Lucy and give a relationship a chance, and in true Bliss fashion, they decide to share her. They have quite a bit to tackle together. There is a threat from in the form of a rich tourist that won't take no for an answer from Lucy, Lucy has to overlook Ty's manwhore past, and Michael has to get over his tragic past and learn to open himself up to happiness and trust again. But once they work through all of their problems, the three of them are able to come out of it as a strong threesome.

I enjoyed this book. I liked Michael, Lucy and Ty and I was happy they got together and were able to have an HEA. I did think they lacked some in the chemistry department, so the book was not my very favorite Bliss book. Also, it felt a little long and slow at certain moments. But the story was pretty good. Overall, I did enjoy the book in general. I really love the Bliss series with it's kooky characters and fun threesomes. It is a great blend of drama, humor and sexiness. I am looking forward to more from Bliss and from Ms. Blake in the future!

*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Alphas Do It Better Book Blog .
3,681 reviews97 followers
November 28, 2021
5 stars

Welcome back to Bliss! It is just as funny, funky, crazy and lovable as it has always been!

Threesomes, murder and mayhem are typical in Bliss, Colorado, and this book gives readers no less than what they want. Michael, Ty and Lucy have traveled long, complicated roads to arrive at the current point they are at in their lives. This newest trio will face so many challenges, from the past and present, but if there is one thing that’s true about people in Bliss, it’s that they can overcome the craziest and most awful of scenarios to find their happily ever afters! Readers will be completely engrossed in the newest Nights in Bliss book (the first original since 2013) so sit down, relax, grab a drink of choice, maybe a snack, and turn your heat down because you won’t need it!

Cara - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
Profile Image for BookAddict  ✒ La Crimson Femme.
6,917 reviews1,440 followers
November 17, 2021
Returning back to Bliss feels like a homecoming. All the quirky characters in this small town are back and then some. What I love about this series is how Ms. Blake shows the pros and cons of living in a town with a small population. Granted this town is a bit heavier loaded with kinky folks and former law enforcement so it's a bit different than your usual town. If I could pick a place to retire and live, this is the place I want to live. These people are my kind of crazy.


To read the rest of my review, click on the image below to see it on my website.

Welcome to My Hoard

Profile Image for Read.Review.Repeat Blog.
5,905 reviews101 followers
November 16, 2021
"Okay, I am ready to move to Bliss! It was so much fun to head back home again.

US Marshall Michael Nobak, was betrayed by his previous partner, so he comes to Bliss to get his life back on track. Little did he think, Lucy Carson was going to be the one to get him there. Lucy has been in love with Carson for years, but to afraid to act on her crush. Throw Ty into the mix, and this turns out to be one hot and sexy friends to lovers romance.

I also love catching up with past characters and how all of their lives have evolved.
"
Profile Image for Margie.
1,714 reviews26 followers
November 6, 2021
Far from Bliss by Lexi Blake is the twelfth book in her Nights in Bliss series. For me being back in Bliss was a wonderful trip. I feel like these characters are family and I enjoy catching up with them each time a new book in the series releases. Lucy Carson gets to find out how much a menage with Tyler David and Michael Novak means to her in this story. For all three something was missing until they all go together. Now Michael Novak is the most messed up one. He is a former US Marshal whose partner and fiancee turned traitor and ended up shot dead in a previous book in the series. It's been two years and Michael is finally coming alive after feeling guilty about his partner's criminal behavior and death thanks to his new relationship with Lucy and Tyler. Author Lexi Blake does a fantastic job of taking her readers inside Michael's head to help us understand his pain. Not all authors can do this as well as Lexi Blake. Also she is excellent with character and relationship development. I loved this book!

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for KDLediting.
1,758 reviews4 followers
November 30, 2021
5 stars

It just doesn't get better than Bliss. Anyone who's read a Bliss book wants to move there or at least visit! I bow to you Queen Lexi and beg for more!
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,204 reviews221 followers
April 29, 2023
5 Star Review Far From Bliss (Nights In Bliss Colorado #12) by Sophie Oak

I have been intrigued with former US Marshal Michael Novak since he was introduced in a previous book. Destroyed by the betrayal by his ex partner, Michael has been hold up in Bliss, Colorado trying to get his life back on tract with little success.
He is attracted to Lucy Carson, but hasn’t made a move, mainly because she has feelings for Tyler, a man she has loved for years and who never seemed open to a relationship. However Lucy also finds herself attracted to the withdrawn Michael.
Knowing the time is right to finally claim Lucy, Ty and Michael come to an arrangement to go after Lucy together; after all this is Bliss where threesomes are a common occurrence. However Michael is wary of committing to any sort of relationship after what happened in his past.
It was great to be back in Bliss. This has quickly become one of my favourite series and Far From Bliss was a great addition. From the first chapter to the last I was invested in the story. As danger rears it’s head, Lucy will be put in the cross hairs of a murderer who is focused on her. Will Michael and Ty come together to save the woman they both have learned to love?
As always it was great to see some very familiar faces make an appearance, it just added another layer to the story. Another well written story that will reel you in and keep you on the edge of your seat.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,878 reviews213 followers
November 16, 2021


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Michael is a broken man, stewing in rage and a feeling of betrayal after his fiancée and partner turned on him. But when he comes to the small town of Bliss and sees a bright light of a woman named Lucy, his protective (and other) instincts come alive. He knows he'll never be good enough for her, though, or be able to give her what she deserves - love and a real relationship. So that's why when the other man who's got a thing for Lucy, pretty boy Ty, comes to him with a proposition on how to pursue her, one that ends up with Ty the winner and Michael just along for the ride and some pleasure, he just may go for it. He never counted on actually FEELING something for the two of them, or that there is someone out there with Lucy in their crosshairs. Will he be able to protect the woman he's falling for? Can he trust his instincts again, or is Lucy not the woman he thinks she is?



Ty has wanted out of the friendzone he got himself into with Lucy, but can't figure out how to get there. When he finally decides to let her know how he feels, he completely screws the whole thing up. But he sees there is a solution of sorts - Michael, the brooding guy he knows Lucy is interested in. If he can convince Michael to help him pursue her, he just might get what he wants most - Lucy. He didn't count on developing feelings for Michael, or to rely on him as their protector. Will the three of them make it out of this situation as a solid threesome, or is Michael's sense of trust too damaged for him to ever allow him to be with them?



I've been loving the Nights in Bliss series. It's really one of the best series I've ever read with its flawed, complex but lovable characters, fast-paced but well plotted storylines, serious chemistry, and more than a little love. This small town of interesting residents is all the better for the three in Far from Bliss. I love the way their relationship began, how it developed, and how the story ended. I can't wait for the next one now.



ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR for an honest review.

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Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,256 reviews206 followers
November 15, 2021
FAR FROM BLISS is the twelfth instalment in Lexi Blake’s contemporary, adult NIGHTS IN BLISS COLORADO erotic, ménage romantic suspense series. This is former US Marshal Michael Novak, EMT Tyler Davis, and waitress Lucy Carson’s story line. FAR FROM BLISS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.


NOTE: FAR FROM BLISS contains scenes of MFM sexual situations that may not be suitable for all readers.


Told from third person perspective FAR FROM BLISS follows the building romance and relationship between former US Marshal Michael Novak, EMT Tyler Davis, and waitress Lucy Carson. Tyler Davis and Lucy Carson have been best friends most of their lives but Lucy watched from afar as Tyler embarked on sexual journey without our story line heroine. Now that both Lucy and Tyler are working and living in Bliss, Colorado, Lucy finds herself attracted to recluse Michael Novak, a former US Marshal whose secrets run dangerous and deep.


Michael Novak wants to be left alone to wallow in self pity and grief for the betrayal by a former love and partner whose actions almost caused the death of the people he once called friends but Michael never expected the ice around his heart to fracture until a feisty waitress began to focus on the possibility of her own happily ever after. With both Michael and Tyler professing their desire for our story line heroine, it is to be expected that our trio will embark on a journey of love together but all is not well in Bliss, Colorado when an entitled, affluent and powerful family take aim at Lucy Carson, and the results find Lucy the prime suspect in a murder investigation, and the man that she loves is unable to get past another potential betrayal. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Tyler, Michael and Lucy, and the potential fall-out as heroine is targeted in a game of power and control, and issues of trust may forceTyler and Lucy to go it alone.


Michael Novak knows betrayal first hand, and in this Michael’s issues of trust leave much to be desired. Tyler Davis has loved our heroine, his best friend, for as long as he can remember but timing and miscommunication always had our couple going in opposite directions. With a killer on the loose, and a potential target on the back of the woman they love, Tyler and Michael work with authorities to uncover the truth, a task that forces Michael to remember another betrayal by a woman who promised her heart and her love.


The relationship between Michael, Lucy and Tyler is a ménage affair of which Michael is willing to take control but Michael continues to struggle with issues of trust, believing every act may be a question of betrayal. Michael’s actions threaten to destroy not only his new found relationship with Tyler and Lucy, but the friendships in Bliss, Colorado as well. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic, passionate and intense without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.


There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters, many of whom we have me in the previous story lines. The camaraderie between the central players and the supporting players is wonderful and real.


FAR FROM BLISS is a story of betrayal, secrets and lies, power and control, greed and jealous, forgiveness and love. The premise is intriguing, engaging and captivating; the characters are energetic and determined; the romance is seductive, emotional and potentially heart breaking.


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Profile Image for Eclectic Review.
1,685 reviews5 followers
November 18, 2021
Holy cow! I loved this book with all of the angst, laughter, suspense, and sexy romance. But what I loved most was the contrast of the three protagonists and how they work out each other's quirks and fears one day at a time. And most importantly, where in the world can I find a relationship like they have? LOL

Michael is a US Marshal who is bitter, angry and punishing himself for not seeing the signs of his ex's betrayal. He's living in a crude cabin in the mountains and his brooding manner keeps most people away except the beautiful waitress Lucy and the extremely positive and friendly EMT Tyler who is in love with her.  He never thought he would be attracted to anyone again let alone two people, but their kindness and acceptance are making him want to stay on in Bliss.

Lucy has sacrificed so much in her life including her happiness to keep her siblings safe and happy. And let's face it, her instincts about men are crap. She has been in love with her friend, Tyler, for many years, but his rejection of her in high school seemed to seal their fate. So it was a total shock when he suddenly confesses his love for her after noticing her interest in the hot sexy Michael.

Tyler longs for Lucy. He regrets all the time they've wasted after he stupidly turned her down years ago in high school, but now that he's ready to confess his feelings for her, she doesn't buy it because the man has spent years sowing his wild oats with every female within the vicinity. He knows Lucy loves him, but she's also lusting after Michael, so Tyler has a plan. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em.

Between Michael's big long grump and commanding presence, Lucy and her quiet kindness, and Tyler's sunny sweet demeanor, you get a lovable sexy trio that works very well together. Michael is definitely the protector of the group who gets Lucy and Tyler to open up to each other after decades of repressed love for each other. Lucy is the voice of reason and forgiveness when Michael's grief and mistrust rear its ugly head, and Tyler is the positive force who brings laughter when needed. This is not all about the love story, but there is an interesting mystery murder included as well which is solved by the local mystery writers in town.

Bliss is an interesting place with its unusual amount of murders and its curious number of thruples in town. Not to mention its quirky and close-knit family of characters. Again, I have come late to the series, but I plan to go back and start from the beginning.

I recommend highly this delightful romance full of grief, laughter, steam, and suspense all wrapped up in a strange little town of people who protect their own.

Thank you to Ms. Blake for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Profile Image for Amy Dickinson.
1,465 reviews40 followers
November 19, 2021
Overall Grade: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Lexi Blake as Sophie Oak’s Far From Bliss is exactly what you love about Blake’s other Nights in Bliss stories: edge-of-your seat suspense, the ultimate of steam, and enough tension between the characters that you become anticipatory over a resolution and happy ending. This story follows Michael, Ty, and Lucy. Michael is the marshal, partnered with and engaged to Jessie, who is exposed in Blake’s Found in Bliss to be a double-agent of sorts, tasked with killing Alexei and his paramours. Being engaged to a traitor without his knowledge causes Michael to spiral, taking him out of society for two years. Lucy is a server at Trio, working hard to provide a better life for herself and her siblings. On the cusp of a new job that will bring her advantages, she is confronted by her best guy friend, Ty, with his feelings of love for her. Confused by his pronouncement of interest, given that he rebuffed her in the past, she’s unsure if she should pursue a relationship with him. Even more, Michael has caught her eye (and she has caught his), so she’s determined to figure out her feelings for both men. Since she finds herself attracted to both of them, Michael and Ty must decide if they can work as partners for Lucy. When their lives become endangered and Lucy becomes a suspect in a case, Ty and Michael must work to declare her innocence, if Michael can move beyond the betrayal of his past.

For me, Far From Bliss was an enjoyable read. The book really takes off about 50% in, so there is a need to be patient with Michael, Ty, and Lucy. They all spend time in the first half denying feelings and resisting their throupleship. However, once Ty, Michael, and Lucy accept their feelings for each other, the latter half of the book becomes focused on the suspense of the story. This is the sweet spot of Lexi Blake’s story. There is still a tension between the three, especially as Michael needs to find a better way to process Jessie’s betrayal in order to find a happy ending for the three. Yet, in true Lexi Blake form, she utilizes her past characters to move him to that place. Even more, Blake advocates for therapy to deal with one’s mental health which is always a worthy message.

Overall, there is a nice balance between Ty, Michael, and Lucy, and it’s clear why they work in a

relationship together. It’s exactly the type of story you expect out of Lexi Blake’s Bliss series. If you love a little menage, some romantic suspense, a well-developed universe of quirky characters, and a sincere happy ending, then you should grab Lexi Blake’s Far From Bliss.
Profile Image for sexy romance reads.
213 reviews5 followers
December 19, 2021
My Review:

But can I say how happy I am to be back in Bliss? I just love it here. It's been too long.

The gossip, the nosiness, the bets, the beets and lets not forget about the aliens. Ahh I can't wait!

So this book is about Lucy, Ty and Michael, they have all been around Bliss for some time now and I have been waiting for their story.

Right from the start of this book Ty is tired of waiting and wants Lucy to know he's the one for her.

Lucy is shocked that Ty might actually have feelings for her but she doesn’t believe it for a second. Why would Ty want her when he can have anyone he wants?

“He kissed her again, and this time her mouth opened, allowing his tongue to slide against hers. Pure desire raced through his veins. All he had to do was push her back against the wall and he’d press himself against her and find the relief he’d needed for years. It didn’t matter who he slept with. He found no real comfort in the act because his lovers hadn’t been Lucy.”

But Ty's not giving up, even if that means striking a deal with the other man that wants Lucy as much as he does. Michael.

Michael a bit of a recluse, he has been since he first came to Bliss and had to deal with Betrayal.

“He was fairly certain being around Nell was where he’d gone wrong. She was optimistic and creative and so positive it sometimes hurt. He’d also liked having a comfy bed and hot showers and food that didn’t taste like crap.”

After two long years Michael is starting to come out of his shell just a tiny bit.

Michael can't seem to not want Lucy, she's a brightness in his dark world. He wants be he doesn’t want to want.

Michael cannot resist Ty and takes him up on his offer, and now they are both ready and equipped to come after Lucy.

“Some asshole who bought Hiram’s old place in town came in. Gorgeous wife, but he didn’t like my choice in music. I’m fairly certain he had someone hack my digital juke and now it only plays Guns N’ Roses. All day. Every day. I might shoot myself.”

And surprise, surprised look who made it to Bliss and got a house there for vacationing. None other than Ian Taggart. And of course he messing with people.

“Apparently the Men’s Council on Bliss Relations is worried you two won’t be good at sharing and will give the whole town a bad reputation.”

But where else would we find a Men's Council on Bliss Relations? Of course the men that have done it already are coming to give advice when no one ask. But would it be Bliss if no one was in your business?

Lucy felt herself flush. “And you are one of those, Jax?” “One of the dudes who spent a lot of time in the military and now lives to watch other people fuck up?” Jax asked. “Yes. That is who I am. Not that you fucked up. You seemed to be doing real well there.”

And what kind of a story would it be if the people of Bliss didn't make their opinions heard?

“She’d put up walls, and he’d been too afraid to knock them down for fear they’d both be caught in the landslide. “Well, I thought about you far more than geometry,”

It was really good to see Ty open up and finally tell Lucy how he felt. And now only how he felt but the many things that he may have done or not done over the years.

Ty and Michael's relationship was a bit unexpected but worked really well. Ty needed someone to push him and do the things he was afraid to do.

"One of the things he'd started to suspect was that Ty was an overgrown Golden Retriever. Handsome. Athletic. Looked like he could take down the world if he wanted to, but he almost never wanted to. Sometimes that dumbass loyal Golden needed a Rottweiler best friend."

And it was nice to see Michael opening up and start to enjoy things in his life, even if he may have been on guard.

Ty and Michael balance each other out and together they are perfect for Lucy.

And of course as all things in Bliss there was suspense and Lucy somehow becomes a part of a murder investigation. All in all this was what I expected from Bliss.

But I can't help but want to go back and read the rest of the Bliss books just to be back in Bliss.

Would I Recommend:

Definitely! 4 stars for sure. Lexi Blake's (AKA Sophie Oak) Bliss series is always fun. And catching up with the previous characters are even better.

But I love also seeing new characters and seeing where the Bliss series will go from here.

I always look forward to these book, or pretty much any book from Lexi Blake.
Profile Image for Janine - The World Was Hers for the Reading.
1,495 reviews26 followers
November 16, 2021
After his partner, and lover, betrayed him, Michael Novack has lived alone on a mountain in Bliss with nothing but his anger. The only thing keeping his interest in anything is Lucy Carson, even though he knows he isn’t good enough for her to even consider making a move.


Tyler Davis has loved Lucy since he was a kid, but he didn’t know how to act on it. They are best friends and now he needs to find a way to make Lucy see him as more, all the while he tries to take care of her without her realizing it is him.

Lucy Carson has always put everyone else first in her life. She works hard to help provide for her siblings since her alcoholic father doesn’t. She also doesn’t want to be seen as less than and strives to be independent and not take charity from anyone. She also has a crush on Michael even though he never really speaks to her and has worked hard to put the love she has for Ty, her best friend, out of her mind because he’s never shown any interest in anything more.

Lexi Blake has given readers another fantastic trio in Far From Bliss. Michael is wounded and needs to be able to move on and trust himself and others again. Ty needs to prove himself to be the man he wants to be and Lucy needs to accept that it is okay to depend on others. Together they all offer the others what they need while fitting together perfectly. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Lexi Blake book set in Bliss without a murder to solve and some angst causing the trio in question to doubt everything before finding their happy ever after!

I adored these characters! It was so wonderful to be back in Bliss! These characters always feel like quirky family members. There are some great new characters introduced (I can’t wait for more Van), some phenomenal allusions to the McKay Taggart crew (boy will that make readers of that series crack up) and some interesting theories on Jessica Fletcher from Murder She Wrote!

With amazing suspense and beautifully written characters that have flaws and baggage to deal with, Far From Bliss is everything fans of this series love and adore! 5 stars!
Profile Image for Ria Alexander.
2,657 reviews51 followers
November 17, 2021
Welcome back to Bliss

Welcome back to Bliss!! I love this town and the people who reside in it. I adore Ms. Blake's tales from Bliss, and this one was no different. Plenty of laughs, wonderful characters, two smoking hot men, one sassy woman, and a storyline that had me turning the pages of FAR FROM BLISS rapidly. Once again Ms. Blake is giving us another wonderful trio in Michael Novack, Tyler Davis and Lucy Carson.

After the death of his lover, who was also his partner, Michael moved to Bliss. There he lives isolated in a run down cabin on the mountain. Lucy has caught his eye, but believing himself to be not good enough for her, he maintains his distance while watching over her. Lucy is the woman who puts everyone's happiness before her own. She also finds herself crushing on the larger than life mountain man, while trying to push aside the love she feels for her best friend Tyler. Tyler has been in love with Lucy for as long as he can remember, but he has never acted on it, so he finds other ways to care for her without her knowing. What will happen when both men decide to make their move? Will Lucy find herself between two very hunky men? Remember, this is Bliss!

This was such a great welcome back story to Bliss. I love all the quirkiness of this town and its residents. There's some heartaches, hilarious moments, a murder (nothing unusual), and a lot of protective and steamy moments. When the women get together there's plenty of town gossip to catch up on, but when the men are around, they certainly know how to display the dominant natures. With a few twists and turns, Ms. Blake certainly knows how to keep her readers captivated.

I cannot wait for the next book.

Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction

✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE BLISSFUL STARS ✨✨✨✨✨
Profile Image for Oleta Blaylock.
762 reviews8 followers
October 3, 2025
There is a lot of uncertainty throughout this story. Michael Novak is just starting to come out of mourning for his lost partner. Part of the rebirth, so to speak, is because of Lucy Carson. Lucy shows Michael that he can have a better life than he thinks he deserves. Lucy hasn't had an easy life either. Her parents are divorced. Her father is a drunk that does nothing to help raise his two younger daughters. Lucy has to provide whatever the girls needs so she works several jobs to stay afloat.

Tyler (Ty) Davis has loved Lucy since he first met her. However he wants what so many of the threesomes have in Bliss. He thinks he has found the third in Michael Novak. It will take some doing but Tyler isn't going to give up.

It is a rough road these three follow to find redemption and the love they all need. There are forces that are determined to tear them apart but the magic of Bliss, Co works and they come out better than when they stated.

There were times I didn't think that Michael was going to find his way through the trauma of the betrayal of his girl friend. He finds that Lucy and Ty are the two people that can help him and that he can help. There are forces at work that threaten to tear the two apart but they stick together and come out the other side better individuals.

This is a very nice love story. Ms. Blake has a wonderful talent for keeping a story from getting dragged down into the depressing and often boring emotions of uncertainty. She keeps the relationship moving along without the drama so many depend authors seem to use to get their word count. I look forward to the next book.
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