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Wild Heart Ranch #1
Sworn Enemy
Hating Justin Jennings should be a lot easier than this.
He nearly ruined my life, and I swore when I left town that I’d become the opposite of him in every possible way.
I’ve kept that promise, traveling the world to save the people who cannot save themselves. The lost, the trafficked, the stolen. This work is my life’s mission, and now my father has given me the land to expand my operations.
The caveat? It’s in the same small Texas town that I escaped all those years ago.
As much as I try, I’m unable to avoid him. Worse, all I see is a broken man putting himself back together bit by bit.
I want to hate him so much.
But he’s making it impossible.
The only thing easy about any of this is how quickly I’m falling for my sworn enemy.
He nearly ruined my life, and I swore when I left town that I’d become the opposite of him in every possible way.
I’ve kept that promise, traveling the world to save the people who cannot save themselves. The lost, the trafficked, the stolen. This work is my life’s mission, and now my father has given me the land to expand my operations.
The caveat? It’s in the same small Texas town that I escaped all those years ago.
As much as I try, I’m unable to avoid him. Worse, all I see is a broken man putting himself back together bit by bit.
I want to hate him so much.
But he’s making it impossible.
The only thing easy about any of this is how quickly I’m falling for my sworn enemy.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 24, 2022
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July 22, 2023
re-read April 2023
My heart! ♡ I can’t believe it’s finally release day for the second book in the series in a few days. I’m even more fired up now after my re-read.
4.5***** stars
Okay, it’s needless to say that this story approaches a very very delicate matter and I wasn’t sure if it was possible to write a sensible and believable romance after what had happened between these two in the past.
This is a romance about a former bully and his victim, a boy who then attempted suicide because he couldn’t take it anymore.
About Charlie Goddamn Wills: imagine a young, openly queer boy in a small town getting harassed by his peers for being gay (mainly Justin) that ended in wishing to leave this shitty life for good. Only to then come back to this town that didn’t accepted him years later to find that the same town is now super supportive of a certain ranch full of queers, find out that the boy who mobbed him into a suicide attempt was in reality gay himself and secretly in love with him while he made his life a living hell and on top of it all, find that the straight guy (Trip) he had a massive crush on in high school is not only suddenly queer himself but is also married to a man now. Wow. What a bummer. I believe I would feel pretty angry myself.
About Justin Fucking Jennings: imagine a young teenage boy, emotionally abandoned by his parents, who hates himself for being gay (that self hatred inflicted by his own father) being in love with the beautiful, openly gay boy from school. But for the opportunity to make his father proud (and hate him less for being gay) he chooses to go after that beautiful boy with f-slurs and a lot of other even more hurtful words.
Justin never got over the guilt he felt after Charlie attempted to end his life and left. We see him years later in the Rebel Sky Ranch series (esp. in "Navarrow") spiraling out of control with alcohol and pills and after both brothers, Jason and Justin, came out, seeing him hit total rock bottom and attempting to “[…] finish off the job Charlie started, but this time with the right person.” himself, just fucking broke my heart.
What I loved about this book more than anything else is the support he got. And although Justin attacked openly queer Sam and Desi before, these two were the first to be there for him when he needed it, offering their friendship. Some might say Justin didn’t deserve that kindness after he inflicted so much harm himself, but I’m glad Kelly Fox chose to give it to him anyway.
And as for Charlie and Justin. Well, Charlie held on to his anger towards Justin as long as he could and I’m convinced this kind of forgiveness takes a lot!
Their love story was just plain beautiful. I loved everything about it. Two broken men finding solace and healing in each other.
So in the end, this is also a story about forgiveness. Not only for the person who harmed them but also about forgiving themselves. I think Kelly Fox did a fantastic job portraying a story like that. Considerate and honest.
*Please heed TWs!
************
Wild Heart Ranch Series
Book 1 - Sworn Enemy - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Good Behavior - 3.75 stars
Book 3 - Savior Complex - 3.75 stars
Book 4 - Anti-Hero - 4.25 stars
Spin-off to the Rebel Sky Ranch series with references to the Guardians as well as the Mobsters + Billionaires series
My heart! ♡ I can’t believe it’s finally release day for the second book in the series in a few days. I’m even more fired up now after my re-read.
4.5***** stars
Okay, it’s needless to say that this story approaches a very very delicate matter and I wasn’t sure if it was possible to write a sensible and believable romance after what had happened between these two in the past.
This is a romance about a former bully and his victim, a boy who then attempted suicide because he couldn’t take it anymore.
“Charlie?” […]
I freeze in place, […]. I know Justin regrets what happened between us in school. Anyone can see that. […] Still, I cannot carry his guilt for him.
“No,” is all I manage before letting the door swing shut behind me.
About Charlie Goddamn Wills: imagine a young, openly queer boy in a small town getting harassed by his peers for being gay (mainly Justin) that ended in wishing to leave this shitty life for good. Only to then come back to this town that didn’t accepted him years later to find that the same town is now super supportive of a certain ranch full of queers, find out that the boy who mobbed him into a suicide attempt was in reality gay himself and secretly in love with him while he made his life a living hell and on top of it all, find that the straight guy (Trip) he had a massive crush on in high school is not only suddenly queer himself but is also married to a man now. Wow. What a bummer. I believe I would feel pretty angry myself.
About Justin Fucking Jennings: imagine a young teenage boy, emotionally abandoned by his parents, who hates himself for being gay (that self hatred inflicted by his own father) being in love with the beautiful, openly gay boy from school. But for the opportunity to make his father proud (and hate him less for being gay) he chooses to go after that beautiful boy with f-slurs and a lot of other even more hurtful words.
Justin never got over the guilt he felt after Charlie attempted to end his life and left. We see him years later in the Rebel Sky Ranch series (esp. in "Navarrow") spiraling out of control with alcohol and pills and after both brothers, Jason and Justin, came out, seeing him hit total rock bottom and attempting to “[…] finish off the job Charlie started, but this time with the right person.” himself, just fucking broke my heart.
What I loved about this book more than anything else is the support he got. And although Justin attacked openly queer Sam and Desi before, these two were the first to be there for him when he needed it, offering their friendship. Some might say Justin didn’t deserve that kindness after he inflicted so much harm himself, but I’m glad Kelly Fox chose to give it to him anyway.
And as for Charlie and Justin. Well, Charlie held on to his anger towards Justin as long as he could and I’m convinced this kind of forgiveness takes a lot!
“I was so in love with you, and that…has never wavered. I totally deserve how badly this is going to break my heart when I walk out of here today, but holding you like this is a fucking dream come true, and I can’t process those two truths at the same time.”
Oh wow. This man.
Their love story was just plain beautiful. I loved everything about it. Two broken men finding solace and healing in each other.
So in the end, this is also a story about forgiveness. Not only for the person who harmed them but also about forgiving themselves. I think Kelly Fox did a fantastic job portraying a story like that. Considerate and honest.
I take a carefully cropped picture of him asleep against my chest and send it to my parents.
Charlie: This is the real Justin.
Charlie: His dad stopped by earlier to wish him better aim next time.
Dad: Jesus Christ. Fuck that guy.
Mom: He said that to his son?
Charlie: Yeah.
Charlie: Justin’s not a bad guy, Mom.
Charlie: I think I’m falling for him.
*Please heed TWs!
************
Wild Heart Ranch Series
Book 1 - Sworn Enemy - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Good Behavior - 3.75 stars
Book 3 - Savior Complex - 3.75 stars
Book 4 - Anti-Hero - 4.25 stars
Spin-off to the Rebel Sky Ranch series with references to the Guardians as well as the Mobsters + Billionaires series
July 26, 2023
✦ okay, yes, i know that for the most part they dealt with their very complicated past like grown and mature adults, but my demented ass honestly wanted more hate and fighting. the beginning where Charlie still kinda despised Justin, while Justin kept looking at Charlie with those puppy eyes... i loved that. like why does Charlie have to be such a forgiving and nice person.👎🙄 i highkey wanted more hate sex.
✦ also what the fuck is with this town in general. by now i know that a lot of books by this author are interconnected with this one, and there are at least a couple of other series that are set in this same universe, but omg. everyone is just so fucking wholesome and loving lmao. like how are some of y'all killers, but also the kindest, most accepting people ever. also, basically everyone's gay and married. i suppose if you want the full experience and wanna know all the characters that appear in this book, it's best to find out the actual timeline and read from the beginning, because there are A LOT of characters from previous books.
✦ while this was very OTT and unrealistic at times, i had a pretty enjoyable time reading this book. while neither of the mcs was particularly memorable, they were sweet together for the most part, and they did give me a nice amount of feels. i am intrigued enough to check out the next book in this series.
✦ also what the fuck is with this town in general. by now i know that a lot of books by this author are interconnected with this one, and there are at least a couple of other series that are set in this same universe, but omg. everyone is just so fucking wholesome and loving lmao. like how are some of y'all killers, but also the kindest, most accepting people ever. also, basically everyone's gay and married. i suppose if you want the full experience and wanna know all the characters that appear in this book, it's best to find out the actual timeline and read from the beginning, because there are A LOT of characters from previous books.
✦ while this was very OTT and unrealistic at times, i had a pretty enjoyable time reading this book. while neither of the mcs was particularly memorable, they were sweet together for the most part, and they did give me a nice amount of feels. i am intrigued enough to check out the next book in this series.
September 17, 2022
Why do I keep forgetting that I am not a fan of this author's work? Ugh, I guess it's because the couple books of hers I've read have been utterly forgettable two-star duds, and this one's no different.
While I can appreciate forgiveness as a way of letting go of past hurts and trauma, marrying the man who tormented you to the point you attempted suicide just isn't believable. Their entire shared history was based on abuse.
Justin was a weak character, constantly apologizing, crying, and playing the victim card. His redemption wasn't earned. Not everyone with shitty parents becomes a massive bully. What Justin did to Charlie was inexcusable.
Yes, people can change, but to that degree? Nah, I don't buy it. Let's face it: Most bullies grow up to be assholes.
Other complaints: too many secondary characters, random scenes of rescue and murder that didn't mesh with the otherwise dull plot, spanking without any kink development.
Just how much money did Charlie have to give away trained horses for free? And why was everyone cheering on their relationship when Justin had been an absolute tosser to so many people in town?
The story was mildly entertaining initially, but after the MCs got together (far too easily and quickly) I lost all interest and couldn't wait for the book to end.
While I can appreciate forgiveness as a way of letting go of past hurts and trauma, marrying the man who tormented you to the point you attempted suicide just isn't believable. Their entire shared history was based on abuse.
Justin was a weak character, constantly apologizing, crying, and playing the victim card. His redemption wasn't earned. Not everyone with shitty parents becomes a massive bully. What Justin did to Charlie was inexcusable.
Yes, people can change, but to that degree? Nah, I don't buy it. Let's face it: Most bullies grow up to be assholes.
Other complaints: too many secondary characters, random scenes of rescue and murder that didn't mesh with the otherwise dull plot, spanking without any kink development.
Just how much money did Charlie have to give away trained horses for free? And why was everyone cheering on their relationship when Justin had been an absolute tosser to so many people in town?
The story was mildly entertaining initially, but after the MCs got together (far too easily and quickly) I lost all interest and couldn't wait for the book to end.
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September 1, 2022
MM Romance
Hurt Comfort
2.5 Stars ⭐️
I don’t know how to rate this book because I really liked the first 45% or so and the hate sex against the truck? Fuck me that was hot. 🥵 The story itself was painful to read at times because while no one is suicidal within this book, surviving an attempted suicide is a topic throughout. I have lost friends to suicide but this topic was handled with care throughout the book and I found myself getting real teary eyed about some of it.
However, I found myself losing interest after the halfway point because there were just so many people mentioned that I gave no fucks about and it seemed to take over at times. I know now that most of these characters/couples were in previous books by this author, books I never picked up because I didn’t like the samples and I stand by that choice because other than Sam and Anders, no one really wowed me. My favorite parts of this book were actually the action scenes that Charlie took part in to bring down sex traffickers and not the romance between Charlie and Justin even though I liked both characters. I just know though that had I been interested in reading this author’s ranch series and known all the couples and seen Justin’s story throughout those books, I would have probably loved this because this is a hard fought HEA for both parties and there were times I wasn’t sure they’d get there based on their shared past. It really was touching to see where they ended up but it wasn’t satisfying to me in a way romance books usually are. I dont know if that makes sense but the urge to DNF this one was strong and I almost wish I had because I have no idea how to rate this because I feel like this is a me thing and not the book’s fault.
Saying all that though, I REALLY loved Anders and I was so excited to find out he already has a book and it’s in a series dedicated to taking out sex traffickers like Charlie hunted in this book. I loved the sample of it and plan to read it soon, actually I’m tempted to start it now because that’s how much I loved the sample but I’m nervous because it will be the 3rd book I’ve tried by this author and I can’t imagine wanting to pick up any more if this one goes south too. 🫣
I’m giving this 2.5 stars but rounding up to 3 because it’s a me thing and not the book and I don’t want to penalize the author for that.
Hurt Comfort
2.5 Stars ⭐️
I don’t know how to rate this book because I really liked the first 45% or so and the hate sex against the truck? Fuck me that was hot. 🥵 The story itself was painful to read at times because while no one is suicidal within this book, surviving an attempted suicide is a topic throughout. I have lost friends to suicide but this topic was handled with care throughout the book and I found myself getting real teary eyed about some of it.
However, I found myself losing interest after the halfway point because there were just so many people mentioned that I gave no fucks about and it seemed to take over at times. I know now that most of these characters/couples were in previous books by this author, books I never picked up because I didn’t like the samples and I stand by that choice because other than Sam and Anders, no one really wowed me. My favorite parts of this book were actually the action scenes that Charlie took part in to bring down sex traffickers and not the romance between Charlie and Justin even though I liked both characters. I just know though that had I been interested in reading this author’s ranch series and known all the couples and seen Justin’s story throughout those books, I would have probably loved this because this is a hard fought HEA for both parties and there were times I wasn’t sure they’d get there based on their shared past. It really was touching to see where they ended up but it wasn’t satisfying to me in a way romance books usually are. I dont know if that makes sense but the urge to DNF this one was strong and I almost wish I had because I have no idea how to rate this because I feel like this is a me thing and not the book’s fault.
Saying all that though, I REALLY loved Anders and I was so excited to find out he already has a book and it’s in a series dedicated to taking out sex traffickers like Charlie hunted in this book. I loved the sample of it and plan to read it soon, actually I’m tempted to start it now because that’s how much I loved the sample but I’m nervous because it will be the 3rd book I’ve tried by this author and I can’t imagine wanting to pick up any more if this one goes south too. 🫣
I’m giving this 2.5 stars but rounding up to 3 because it’s a me thing and not the book and I don’t want to penalize the author for that.
May 7, 2023
If you don’t think somebody can end up with his former bully, then you should give this book a go!
I’m a bit wary when it comes to bullies, because I have a hard time understanding their motives and forgiving them. This author definitely found a way to make me fall in love not only with Charlie, the bully’s victim, but with Justin (the bully), too.
The entire story is set in this authors “Goodnight” universe, so we’ve already met the characters briefly in previous books, but you can start with this book even without knowing about the other couples: just keep in mind that it’s set in Texas, in a very queer friendly small town, with A LOT of gay/queer characters, so just go for it, even if the scenario is (sadly) unlikely.
Charlie has returned home after staying away for many years, having left right after his bully, Justin, broke him so badly that he attempted to end his own life. Since then, he’s come a long way: he’s no victim, on the contrary- he made a fortune by hunting people down for the government, and in his free time, he rescues people who fell prey to human trafficking rings. He’s about to build a place for equine therapy, but before he even starts, his place burns down. To his dismay, one of the people trying to combat the fire is Justin, his former tormentor.
But the bully he’s known from school is no more: in his place is a insecure, honest and… good… man who’s desperately trying to make amends and to give back to society. A man who finally succeeded to become sober after years of trying to numb his guilt with pills and alcohol, and who tried to end his life, too, on the anniversary of Charlie’s attempt.
Sounds dreadfully depressing, right? But trust me, it’s not. This author manages to infuse her books with joy and optimism, without trying to make light of the things that happened so many years before, and she manages to make Charlie and Justin’s love story not only believable, but inevitable.
It’s low on angst and high on smiles, so if you’re in a cowboy state of mind, you should definitely put this book on your list.
I’m a bit wary when it comes to bullies, because I have a hard time understanding their motives and forgiving them. This author definitely found a way to make me fall in love not only with Charlie, the bully’s victim, but with Justin (the bully), too.
The entire story is set in this authors “Goodnight” universe, so we’ve already met the characters briefly in previous books, but you can start with this book even without knowing about the other couples: just keep in mind that it’s set in Texas, in a very queer friendly small town, with A LOT of gay/queer characters, so just go for it, even if the scenario is (sadly) unlikely.
Charlie has returned home after staying away for many years, having left right after his bully, Justin, broke him so badly that he attempted to end his own life. Since then, he’s come a long way: he’s no victim, on the contrary- he made a fortune by hunting people down for the government, and in his free time, he rescues people who fell prey to human trafficking rings. He’s about to build a place for equine therapy, but before he even starts, his place burns down. To his dismay, one of the people trying to combat the fire is Justin, his former tormentor.
But the bully he’s known from school is no more: in his place is a insecure, honest and… good… man who’s desperately trying to make amends and to give back to society. A man who finally succeeded to become sober after years of trying to numb his guilt with pills and alcohol, and who tried to end his life, too, on the anniversary of Charlie’s attempt.
Sounds dreadfully depressing, right? But trust me, it’s not. This author manages to infuse her books with joy and optimism, without trying to make light of the things that happened so many years before, and she manages to make Charlie and Justin’s love story not only believable, but inevitable.
It’s low on angst and high on smiles, so if you’re in a cowboy state of mind, you should definitely put this book on your list.
August 14, 2022
I’m just going to put it out there that, in my opinion, you can’t truly get fulfillment from this book unless you’ve read the Rebel Sky Ranch series and the novella about Jason in the recent Dirty Daddies of Pride anthology.
I say this because both Jason and Justin, but especially Justin, have been on a long and painful journey since the first book (Goodnight) and to read his hard fought HEA was REALLY satisfying.
That being said, their pasts and background info is all gone over throughout the book, so if you really want to read this on it’s own, you can.
The first third or so of this book extremely difficult to read because it’s a bully redemption with two MC’s in recovery after both had attempted suicide at different parts of their lives. Kelly has a wonderful content/trigger warning at the beginning so please read that. If heavy suicide themes are difficult for you, this isn’t the book for you.
This HEA is probably one of the most satisfying I’ve ever read. Lots of feelings to work through. Lots of pain. Lots of forgiveness. Acceptance. Peace. Once they come together it’s so dang sweet and you can’t help but just want to curl inside the book and let these guys wrap you in their love.
This is one of my favorite books by Kelly I think. There is high drama, high steam, humor, soooo much cuddling and all the love you can stand.
I say this because both Jason and Justin, but especially Justin, have been on a long and painful journey since the first book (Goodnight) and to read his hard fought HEA was REALLY satisfying.
That being said, their pasts and background info is all gone over throughout the book, so if you really want to read this on it’s own, you can.
The first third or so of this book extremely difficult to read because it’s a bully redemption with two MC’s in recovery after both had attempted suicide at different parts of their lives. Kelly has a wonderful content/trigger warning at the beginning so please read that. If heavy suicide themes are difficult for you, this isn’t the book for you.
This HEA is probably one of the most satisfying I’ve ever read. Lots of feelings to work through. Lots of pain. Lots of forgiveness. Acceptance. Peace. Once they come together it’s so dang sweet and you can’t help but just want to curl inside the book and let these guys wrap you in their love.
This is one of my favorite books by Kelly I think. There is high drama, high steam, humor, soooo much cuddling and all the love you can stand.
June 28, 2023
3 stars
Some parts I liked and some parts I was bored… idk I feel like Charlie forgave Justin a little too quickly but that’s just my opinion.
This has triggers for attempted suicide, for both main characters and past drug addiction. So please be aware of that before reading.
I think in every book I read from Kelly Fox, I feel like there is something missing. Like it had all the components for a winning read from me, but something I can’t quite put my finger on was missing. It happens almost every time haha.
Also it can’t be a Kelly Fox book without the main characters crying a lot.. or at least a lot more than I am used to, it gets kinda annoying after a while.. I get it the main characters are emotional and are in touch with themselves but jesus, don’t need to tear up every 5 seconds haha
I did like to see all the past character’s again and makes me wanna read Anders and Omar’s book one more time haha but maybe in the future. I am excited for the rest of the series though, Ant, Erik, Nacho and the Doctors haha
Overall this was an interesting read, I have a love/hate relationship with Kelly Fox books and this one kinda fell flat for me. I am interested in the other characters books so I will wait for the audios. Declan Winters does a good job with the narrations.
Some parts I liked and some parts I was bored… idk I feel like Charlie forgave Justin a little too quickly but that’s just my opinion.
This has triggers for attempted suicide, for both main characters and past drug addiction. So please be aware of that before reading.
I think in every book I read from Kelly Fox, I feel like there is something missing. Like it had all the components for a winning read from me, but something I can’t quite put my finger on was missing. It happens almost every time haha.
Also it can’t be a Kelly Fox book without the main characters crying a lot.. or at least a lot more than I am used to, it gets kinda annoying after a while.. I get it the main characters are emotional and are in touch with themselves but jesus, don’t need to tear up every 5 seconds haha
I did like to see all the past character’s again and makes me wanna read Anders and Omar’s book one more time haha but maybe in the future. I am excited for the rest of the series though, Ant, Erik, Nacho and the Doctors haha
Overall this was an interesting read, I have a love/hate relationship with Kelly Fox books and this one kinda fell flat for me. I am interested in the other characters books so I will wait for the audios. Declan Winters does a good job with the narrations.
November 10, 2024
2nd Re-read on Nov-10th/24
This is one of those rare books I've read 3 times already. I still love Justin and Charlie.
My rating will drop down to 4⭐ this time.
Maybe I had a bit of a problem with Desi and Sam getting so involved, the dialogues were a bit repetitive with them and Justin, it was "And then what?", "And then what happened?", too much butting in, or maybe it's just me and I don't like flamboyant characters as much anymore, I don't know.
I'd much rather have the hate sex to happen more than once, a bit more of that hate dynamic between Charlie and Justin, but overall it's a really good story.
None of the other books in the series were as good, maybe I'll re-read them eventually, but I do recommend Trip's book, for sure. It's where you'll find Justin too.
___________________________
Re-read on Jun-4th/23
As I'm getting ready to read the 2nd book in the series, I re-read this one yesterday. Still as good as the first time, if not better.
My rating is staying the same, 4.5⭐.
🔴 Bully; enemies-to-lovers
🟡 Both MMCs about 28 years old
🔵 Both gay
🟢 Hurt/Comfort
🟣 Found family
🌶️ Smut is good, descriptive; hate sex; emotional; oral, penetrative; t/b --> both vers
❗ Attempted suicide, addiction, bullying, homophobia
I absolutely love Charlie and Justin, their story was even better now, the second time around.
"I struggled with forgiving him until I got to know him. After that, forgiving him was as easy as taking my next breath. Loving him after that, I realize, was always a foregone conclusion."
If you want the full experience, absolutely read the Rebel Sky Ranch series first.
___________________________
Original review on Dec-4th/22
Rating : 4.5⭐
Being honest here, I didn't expect much from the story, just your typical "we were enemies in high school, now we suddenly like each other" flick, but no, that was not the case. It's quite an emotional story.
Justin is a high school jock, a closet gay with a very unsupportive family, an agressive father who knows Justin's gay, but thrives on Justin bullying kids who are different, especially Charlie, a small kid who is openly gay and whom Justin in secretly in love with.
Charlie tries to kill himself because of Justin's bullying and then when he doesn't succeed, he goes to a hospital and then to rehabilitation center, he doesn't come home anymore and most people think he's dead. He goes on to work as a bounty hunter where he's looking for human traffickers and people who don't want to be found, he's had a lot of therapy, he's a changed guy, so when he comes back to Texas to work on the family land, he meets Justin after a decade of not seeing each other.
Justin is now working and living with Jason, his brother; he's been an addict, in and out of recovery, with no support, no therapy, he's been sober for almost a year and has decided to come out and get a new start in life. His story is best appreciated if you read the Rebel Sky Ranch series first, because over there you'll see Justin being a drunk and still a homophobe, so you'll definitely appreciate his story more if you have some foundation.
"“You were in love with me,” he repeats, his voice shaking. He walks away, then turns back and pushes me up against the bed of his truck. “Justin, I can promise you were not in love with me.”
“I was, Charlie. I really was,” I say, infusing as much sincerity as I can in my voice. It’s still true, though that’s a truth I’d rather take to my grave."
When they meet again, they're both different, more authentic and less afraid. They're able to get to know each other completely anew and the way Charlie and Justin came together after all those years of being complete enemies was hot, sexy, emotional, with a lot of hurt/comfort and a found family for Justin; well, for both.
There's hinting at a break-up, but it doesn't happen, so besides the hate sex that one time, Justin and Charlie have a really good ride to their happy ending.
I really liked this book.
This is one of those rare books I've read 3 times already. I still love Justin and Charlie.
My rating will drop down to 4⭐ this time.
Maybe I had a bit of a problem with Desi and Sam getting so involved, the dialogues were a bit repetitive with them and Justin, it was "And then what?", "And then what happened?", too much butting in, or maybe it's just me and I don't like flamboyant characters as much anymore, I don't know.
I'd much rather have the hate sex to happen more than once, a bit more of that hate dynamic between Charlie and Justin, but overall it's a really good story.
None of the other books in the series were as good, maybe I'll re-read them eventually, but I do recommend Trip's book, for sure. It's where you'll find Justin too.
___________________________
Re-read on Jun-4th/23
As I'm getting ready to read the 2nd book in the series, I re-read this one yesterday. Still as good as the first time, if not better.
My rating is staying the same, 4.5⭐.
🔴 Bully; enemies-to-lovers
🟡 Both MMCs about 28 years old
🔵 Both gay
🟢 Hurt/Comfort
🟣 Found family
🌶️ Smut is good, descriptive; hate sex; emotional; oral, penetrative; t/b --> both vers
❗ Attempted suicide, addiction, bullying, homophobia
I absolutely love Charlie and Justin, their story was even better now, the second time around.
"I struggled with forgiving him until I got to know him. After that, forgiving him was as easy as taking my next breath. Loving him after that, I realize, was always a foregone conclusion."
If you want the full experience, absolutely read the Rebel Sky Ranch series first.
___________________________
Original review on Dec-4th/22
Rating : 4.5⭐
Being honest here, I didn't expect much from the story, just your typical "we were enemies in high school, now we suddenly like each other" flick, but no, that was not the case. It's quite an emotional story.
Justin is a high school jock, a closet gay with a very unsupportive family, an agressive father who knows Justin's gay, but thrives on Justin bullying kids who are different, especially Charlie, a small kid who is openly gay and whom Justin in secretly in love with.
Charlie tries to kill himself because of Justin's bullying and then when he doesn't succeed, he goes to a hospital and then to rehabilitation center, he doesn't come home anymore and most people think he's dead. He goes on to work as a bounty hunter where he's looking for human traffickers and people who don't want to be found, he's had a lot of therapy, he's a changed guy, so when he comes back to Texas to work on the family land, he meets Justin after a decade of not seeing each other.
Justin is now working and living with Jason, his brother; he's been an addict, in and out of recovery, with no support, no therapy, he's been sober for almost a year and has decided to come out and get a new start in life. His story is best appreciated if you read the Rebel Sky Ranch series first, because over there you'll see Justin being a drunk and still a homophobe, so you'll definitely appreciate his story more if you have some foundation.
"“You were in love with me,” he repeats, his voice shaking. He walks away, then turns back and pushes me up against the bed of his truck. “Justin, I can promise you were not in love with me.”
“I was, Charlie. I really was,” I say, infusing as much sincerity as I can in my voice. It’s still true, though that’s a truth I’d rather take to my grave."
When they meet again, they're both different, more authentic and less afraid. They're able to get to know each other completely anew and the way Charlie and Justin came together after all those years of being complete enemies was hot, sexy, emotional, with a lot of hurt/comfort and a found family for Justin; well, for both.
There's hinting at a break-up, but it doesn't happen, so besides the hate sex that one time, Justin and Charlie have a really good ride to their happy ending.
I really liked this book.
September 11, 2022
Oh my, the vulnerability of this book. 🤌🏻🤌🏻
My mom always says that kids are the way they are because a reason and that reason 98% of the time has to do with the family. So I saw this story and I understood it, how a bully was a bully to protect himself.
And how, the bullied was hurt but could understand at the end.
This story wasn't perfect by any means, it had some issues with some transitions I think and some really toxic situations at the beginning, but I loved the characters and what they were telling me. So I enjoyed this to no end.
And there was some good sex involved 🤣🤣 always a plus.
My mom always says that kids are the way they are because a reason and that reason 98% of the time has to do with the family. So I saw this story and I understood it, how a bully was a bully to protect himself.
And how, the bullied was hurt but could understand at the end.
This story wasn't perfect by any means, it had some issues with some transitions I think and some really toxic situations at the beginning, but I loved the characters and what they were telling me. So I enjoyed this to no end.
And there was some good sex involved 🤣🤣 always a plus.
July 31, 2023
DNF 42%. Which is quite a bit of reading to be quitting. But it’s sooooo stupid! Boring and stupid. And clearly written by a woman who can’t capture how men are apart from the curses thrown in.
Writing isn’t horrible, but the plot and character development are.
Premise: Charlie was bullied by Justin all through school and finally tried to kill himself by slitting his veins. Then went away to become some sort of macho he-man, covert mission bounty hunter. Uh. OK.
Justin stays in his home town that Charlie left, starts drinking himself into a stupor from the day Charlie tried to kill himself, finally tries to kill himself too on the anniversary, before cleaning his act up and finding the good in himself, getting sober.
So then Charlie comes back to town, they circle each other and there’s all this unresolved hate/lust. And Charlie finally snaps and hate-fucks Justin in a parking lot on the anniversary of both their attempted suicides.
And then, they each run to tell their respective besties about the incident like two old biddies or gossipy cheerleaders, and suddenly their tension becomes regular like/lust and everything else is resolved.
WTF.
It’s stupid!
Can’t handle it any more.
Writing isn’t horrible, but the plot and character development are.
Premise: Charlie was bullied by Justin all through school and finally tried to kill himself by slitting his veins. Then went away to become some sort of macho he-man, covert mission bounty hunter. Uh. OK.
Justin stays in his home town that Charlie left, starts drinking himself into a stupor from the day Charlie tried to kill himself, finally tries to kill himself too on the anniversary, before cleaning his act up and finding the good in himself, getting sober.
So then Charlie comes back to town, they circle each other and there’s all this unresolved hate/lust. And Charlie finally snaps and hate-fucks Justin in a parking lot on the anniversary of both their attempted suicides.
And then, they each run to tell their respective besties about the incident like two old biddies or gossipy cheerleaders, and suddenly their tension becomes regular like/lust and everything else is resolved.
WTF.
It’s stupid!
Can’t handle it any more.
September 20, 2022
Uhhh, yeah. Okay.
This book started off pretty good. I really enjoyed the shared history between Justin and Charlie, and especially enjoyed learning about their journeys and how they got to where they were in the book.
The sexual tension and chemistry were pretty good, though I was a tad confused by their preferences.
Justin mentioned to Charlie that he always fantasized about Charlie being soft and sweet with him when they had sex, and even Erik makes a comment about how compatible they are because apparently that’s what Charlie likes too.
Except when they do have sex (even disregarding the first time that can definitely be classified as hate sex), we really don’t see this softness. In fact, Charlie is a bit dominant and even spanks Justin a few times, mentions tying Justin up, etc. Which is fine, but very weird to me since it was expressed earlier in the book that Justin liked softer sex and Charlie did too.
I was excited to see a relationship where the sex was very soft and “sensual”, which is so not the norm in this genre, but was left disappointed.
Moving on, I felt that the darker subjects of this book were handled well. It was thought-provoking and intriguing. I loved how Charlie and Justin became each other’s anchors instead of enemies.
Towards the end, though…things got messy. I used to really like Kelly Fox’s books, but I realized the further into a series I got, the less I liked them.
The author definitely tries to fit in as many past characters and future characters as possible. There had to have been at least 3 future storylines set up in this book, and even though this is technically a new series, there were a lot of past characters that made appearances.
It’s a little frustrating when it feels like other characters take over a book. I appreciate the universe that the author has created, but bringing in nearly every character from past books is unnecessary and certainly confusing for the reader who is making this series their first one (which, according to Kelly Fox, this series can be read without reading the others…I completely disagree).
Beyond that, the end was messy in other ways. Spoilers ahead!
The random scene of Jason (Justin’s bro) calling his boyfriend Daddy in front of others ???? Hearing that Erik was a part of an orgy with some of the other characters… and for what???? What did that do for Charlie and Justin’s story??
AND THEN Justin having to kill a man to save Charlie ??? And then Charlie breaking up with Justin for like 2 minutes because he wants to keep him safe ???? All the drama just for the sake of drama ????
Finding out in the epilogue that Charlie and Justin went to Vegas and got married after 6 months of dating?????????
Truthfully, this started out very good. Really enjoyed it, but the middle to end was messy, disjointed, and a huge disappointment. This will likely be my last Kelly Fox book.
This book started off pretty good. I really enjoyed the shared history between Justin and Charlie, and especially enjoyed learning about their journeys and how they got to where they were in the book.
The sexual tension and chemistry were pretty good, though I was a tad confused by their preferences.
Justin mentioned to Charlie that he always fantasized about Charlie being soft and sweet with him when they had sex, and even Erik makes a comment about how compatible they are because apparently that’s what Charlie likes too.
Except when they do have sex (even disregarding the first time that can definitely be classified as hate sex), we really don’t see this softness. In fact, Charlie is a bit dominant and even spanks Justin a few times, mentions tying Justin up, etc. Which is fine, but very weird to me since it was expressed earlier in the book that Justin liked softer sex and Charlie did too.
I was excited to see a relationship where the sex was very soft and “sensual”, which is so not the norm in this genre, but was left disappointed.
Moving on, I felt that the darker subjects of this book were handled well. It was thought-provoking and intriguing. I loved how Charlie and Justin became each other’s anchors instead of enemies.
Towards the end, though…things got messy. I used to really like Kelly Fox’s books, but I realized the further into a series I got, the less I liked them.
The author definitely tries to fit in as many past characters and future characters as possible. There had to have been at least 3 future storylines set up in this book, and even though this is technically a new series, there were a lot of past characters that made appearances.
It’s a little frustrating when it feels like other characters take over a book. I appreciate the universe that the author has created, but bringing in nearly every character from past books is unnecessary and certainly confusing for the reader who is making this series their first one (which, according to Kelly Fox, this series can be read without reading the others…I completely disagree).
Beyond that, the end was messy in other ways. Spoilers ahead!
The random scene of Jason (Justin’s bro) calling his boyfriend Daddy in front of others ???? Hearing that Erik was a part of an orgy with some of the other characters… and for what???? What did that do for Charlie and Justin’s story??
AND THEN Justin having to kill a man to save Charlie ??? And then Charlie breaking up with Justin for like 2 minutes because he wants to keep him safe ???? All the drama just for the sake of drama ????
Finding out in the epilogue that Charlie and Justin went to Vegas and got married after 6 months of dating?????????
Truthfully, this started out very good. Really enjoyed it, but the middle to end was messy, disjointed, and a huge disappointment. This will likely be my last Kelly Fox book.
August 24, 2022
Kelly Fox writes walking wounded so well. Men who have scars, both internal and external, and who wield gallows humor like a sword.
In Sworn Enemy, Kelly tells the story of Charlie, who we met in Warwick from the Rebel Sky Ranch series, and Justin, who we met in Goodnight from that same series. Justin bullied Charlie for years, to the point where Charlie tried to escape permanently. We're reminded, though, that "hurt people hurt people", and Justin's redemption arc is sweet and poignant.
I loved this book and these characters deeply. I laughed and cried with them, and their HEA is completely satisfying. There are appearances from some favorite characters from previous books, too.
While you could possibly read Sworn Enemy as a standalone, I would not recommend it. I'd recommend at least reading Goodnight from Rebel Sky, but preferably reading the whole series. I can't wait to see what fun the Wild Heart Ranch series has in store!
In Sworn Enemy, Kelly tells the story of Charlie, who we met in Warwick from the Rebel Sky Ranch series, and Justin, who we met in Goodnight from that same series. Justin bullied Charlie for years, to the point where Charlie tried to escape permanently. We're reminded, though, that "hurt people hurt people", and Justin's redemption arc is sweet and poignant.
I loved this book and these characters deeply. I laughed and cried with them, and their HEA is completely satisfying. There are appearances from some favorite characters from previous books, too.
While you could possibly read Sworn Enemy as a standalone, I would not recommend it. I'd recommend at least reading Goodnight from Rebel Sky, but preferably reading the whole series. I can't wait to see what fun the Wild Heart Ranch series has in store!
December 13, 2024
Justin + Charlie
Enemies to lovers | Forgiveness | Broken boys
"This thing in you that makes you look down when you should hold your head up--whatever that is, it's a lie. You are so good."
⚠️possible spoilers in tropes and trigger warnings below
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
Falling in love with high school bully
Broken boys
Forgiveness
Vers couple
Hate sex
TWs:
Frequent discussions of suicide
Both MCs attempted suicide (off page)
Self harm
Therapy
Addiction
Homophobia
Abusive parent
Human trafficking
Violence
Murder
House fire
Enemies to lovers | Forgiveness | Broken boys
"This thing in you that makes you look down when you should hold your head up--whatever that is, it's a lie. You are so good."
⚠️possible spoilers in tropes and trigger warnings below
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
Falling in love with high school bully
Broken boys
Forgiveness
Vers couple
Hate sex
TWs:
Frequent discussions of suicide
Both MCs attempted suicide (off page)
Self harm
Therapy
Addiction
Homophobia
Abusive parent
Human trafficking
Violence
Murder
House fire
August 26, 2022
Not one of Kelly’s best, but not her worst either (I save that for Navarro, which was truly dreadful). I see the fan girls are out in force and giving this 5s but there are many things that aren’t believable and just don’t ring true. Justin’s father being a wealthy banker is dropped in half way through as an afterthought but neither Justin nor Jason act as though they come from a wealthy family. Why weren’t they at an elite private school, if their father is so bothered about them following him and can afford $2000 shoes?
More importantly, Charlie falling in love with Justin just wasn’t believable after what he did. I was with his mom all the way, and wouldn’t have been so forgiving.
It had good story telling and suspense until they got together, then it loses its way. It happens too early, Justin should have had to work way harder then he did, and Charlie should have been way more conflicted about it. And then that daft murder scene is tacked on at the end, but it’s not needed.
2.5 out of 5 at most.
And disappointed that Nacho’s story is next when I think we all want Erik’s. The highlights of this book were the appearances of Anders!
More importantly, Charlie falling in love with Justin just wasn’t believable after what he did. I was with his mom all the way, and wouldn’t have been so forgiving.
It had good story telling and suspense until they got together, then it loses its way. It happens too early, Justin should have had to work way harder then he did, and Charlie should have been way more conflicted about it. And then that daft murder scene is tacked on at the end, but it’s not needed.
2.5 out of 5 at most.
And disappointed that Nacho’s story is next when I think we all want Erik’s. The highlights of this book were the appearances of Anders!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2022
This is the first book of a new series. But you'll get the most enjoyment if you read the Rebel Sky Ranch series first. Kelly does a good job explaining who old characters are without taking away from the story. There won't be any confusion about who people are or certain backstories that are important to the story. To truly enjoy Justin's redemption though Goodnight should be read first.
This was a pretty tough read for me personally. I'm in recovery for self harm and suicidal ideation and those themes are heavy in this book. Kelly handles the hard topics with grace and dark humor. If these topics are a no go, then pass on this one.
Charlie and Justin are officially my favorite couple by the author. They really shouldn't work together. At all. In fact I didn't want to read this book at first because Justin is just awful in previous books. His redemption isn't something I wanted. I was actually shipping Charlie with Erik and was kind of hoping Justin would just disappear.
I was wrong. They're pretty great together. And I have a soft spot for Justin despite my not wanting to like him.
I received a copy of the book from the author and this is my honest review
This was a pretty tough read for me personally. I'm in recovery for self harm and suicidal ideation and those themes are heavy in this book. Kelly handles the hard topics with grace and dark humor. If these topics are a no go, then pass on this one.
Charlie and Justin are officially my favorite couple by the author. They really shouldn't work together. At all. In fact I didn't want to read this book at first because Justin is just awful in previous books. His redemption isn't something I wanted. I was actually shipping Charlie with Erik and was kind of hoping Justin would just disappear.
I was wrong. They're pretty great together. And I have a soft spot for Justin despite my not wanting to like him.
I received a copy of the book from the author and this is my honest review
October 5, 2022
Życie potrafi być naprawdę dziwne i totalnie popieprzone - zatem nie kwestionuję,, czy taka historia mogła się zdarzyć i czy jest prawdopodobna, bo na pewno w jakimś stopniu nie jest to wykluczone.
Przyznaję, że naprawdę polubiłam Justina - jego walkę o pozostanie trzeźwym, o nowe życie, które próbuje sobie zbudować - bez toksycznego wpływu rodziców, a już zwłaszcza ojca - i w którym bez słowa skargi próbuje zadośćuczynić za większość zła z czasów nastoletnich i wczesnej dwudziestki. Jego pokora mnie w sumie urzekła. I jego głęboka wiara w to, że przynajmniej w jednym wypadku nie zasługuje na wybaczenie - za doprowadzenie swoim znęcaniem i tyranizowaniem w szkole średniej nastoletniego Charliego do próby samobójczej.
I nawet w tym tomie nie wkurzały mnie łzy, których też mało nie było (autorka ma zdecydowanie coś do płakania, bo zazwyczaj łzy leją się strumieniami w jej książkach), bo Justin sobie na nie zasłużył.
Przyznaję, że naprawdę polubiłam Justina - jego walkę o pozostanie trzeźwym, o nowe życie, które próbuje sobie zbudować - bez toksycznego wpływu rodziców, a już zwłaszcza ojca - i w którym bez słowa skargi próbuje zadośćuczynić za większość zła z czasów nastoletnich i wczesnej dwudziestki. Jego pokora mnie w sumie urzekła. I jego głęboka wiara w to, że przynajmniej w jednym wypadku nie zasługuje na wybaczenie - za doprowadzenie swoim znęcaniem i tyranizowaniem w szkole średniej nastoletniego Charliego do próby samobójczej.
I nawet w tym tomie nie wkurzały mnie łzy, których też mało nie było (autorka ma zdecydowanie coś do płakania, bo zazwyczaj łzy leją się strumieniami w jej książkach), bo Justin sobie na nie zasłużył.
December 23, 2022
Books unexpectedly change your life. Sworn Enemy by Kelly Fox is hands down one of my all time favorite books. Justin and Charlie are so perfect, there were so many moments that I live for in a book. This is my first Kelly Fox book and I’m in LOVE with her writing style! The vulnerability of the characters is done in the most perfect way. The author captures emotions exactly the way I crave and I’ve already reread this 3,4,7,8 times lol I honestly read a few scenes everyday and I can’t stop. I’m addicted to the moments that gave me the biggest feels. I truly recommend this for everyone.
This book will always be my new standard for MM and honestly, romance novels in general.
The realness between them and their conversations are something that I will never forget. I think this book will always stay with me and I’ll never be able to listen to Wild Heart by the Bleachers the same again.
These two beautiful humans need to be cherished forever. You must read this. Honestly every single person needs to read this epic novel. It deserves so much recognition. I’m in awe of how the author could capture such a beautiful perfect story that had the biggest hold on me.
Justin was Charlie’s high school bully. We don’t read the bullying part. We’re there with Charlie and Justin years later as Charlie returned from New York City back to his East Texas Ranch.
You get the best grovel but they handle their emotions in such a mature way. There’s so many climatic moments I was living for these two.
I still want to go back and read this a thousand more times. I wish I could just read about Justin and Charlie being together more. God I’m going to miss them so much. There are trigger warning so please read them.
TROPES:
Reformed Bully
Enemies to Lovers
MM
Angsty
Protective hero
This book will always be my new standard for MM and honestly, romance novels in general.
The realness between them and their conversations are something that I will never forget. I think this book will always stay with me and I’ll never be able to listen to Wild Heart by the Bleachers the same again.
These two beautiful humans need to be cherished forever. You must read this. Honestly every single person needs to read this epic novel. It deserves so much recognition. I’m in awe of how the author could capture such a beautiful perfect story that had the biggest hold on me.
Justin was Charlie’s high school bully. We don’t read the bullying part. We’re there with Charlie and Justin years later as Charlie returned from New York City back to his East Texas Ranch.
You get the best grovel but they handle their emotions in such a mature way. There’s so many climatic moments I was living for these two.
I still want to go back and read this a thousand more times. I wish I could just read about Justin and Charlie being together more. God I’m going to miss them so much. There are trigger warning so please read them.
TROPES:
Reformed Bully
Enemies to Lovers
MM
Angsty
Protective hero
August 25, 2022
I cannot even begin to describe how utterly redeemable Justin is. If you’ve read any of the previous Rebel Sky books, you know that he was just awful. Like, awful, awful. And I know that Fox never intended to write a story about Justin’s redemption, but I am so glad she did. We needed to see just how low Justin would sink so that we could rejoice at his rising. His complicated past with Charlie just made this whole story that much sweeter.
There’s a minefield of triggers with self-destructive behavior, suicidal ideations and actual attempts in talking about past behaviors, so be kind to yourself when considering reading this. With that being said, the first part of this book was hard to read because Justin just can’t stop beating himself up. No matter how much he does to try and make up for past Justin’s antics, he never sees it as enough. I felt so bad for him. Charlie wants to hate him so much but just can’t bring himself to do it. He sees that Justin’s hate for him in high school was hiding a much larger hate for himself. Reading about Justin’s home life and his father’s words were heartbreaking. Reading about Charlie’s battle back after his attempt and his mother’s struggles with it were gutting. Fox so elegantly captured these situations and wrote them with kindness, beauty, grace and a little humor. I think she did an unbelievable job with this book.
Charlie and Justin fight against the odds to have something together. I loved that they were willing to use this budding relationship as a healing time for both of them and create this great life together. This was one of the most satisfying HEAs I’ve read in a long time. Even if you’ve never read the Rebel Sky books, this is worth your time.
There’s a minefield of triggers with self-destructive behavior, suicidal ideations and actual attempts in talking about past behaviors, so be kind to yourself when considering reading this. With that being said, the first part of this book was hard to read because Justin just can’t stop beating himself up. No matter how much he does to try and make up for past Justin’s antics, he never sees it as enough. I felt so bad for him. Charlie wants to hate him so much but just can’t bring himself to do it. He sees that Justin’s hate for him in high school was hiding a much larger hate for himself. Reading about Justin’s home life and his father’s words were heartbreaking. Reading about Charlie’s battle back after his attempt and his mother’s struggles with it were gutting. Fox so elegantly captured these situations and wrote them with kindness, beauty, grace and a little humor. I think she did an unbelievable job with this book.
Charlie and Justin fight against the odds to have something together. I loved that they were willing to use this budding relationship as a healing time for both of them and create this great life together. This was one of the most satisfying HEAs I’ve read in a long time. Even if you’ve never read the Rebel Sky books, this is worth your time.
October 8, 2023
I really don't like that this is the start of a new series and the author has thrown in all these back stories from other books and series to the point where I am so confused about anything happening. I didn't want to read the other series, which is why I started with this one, and I probably won't read more from this author because they've done this. I've read in other's reviews that all the author's book are like that.
I also don't like when authors take characters from other books and make them front and center in the next story. It gets to be too much trying to keep up with all these side characters and takes away from the MC's story.
I don't understand how Justin changed so much since high school. I get he was being a bully because his dad and he didn't want to out himself, but now every interaction between him and Charlie has him blushing and stammering. He was shy around a lot of people and that just doesn't fit to me.
The last thing I'll mention is Charlie's job. I found it unrealistic, and just kind of silly sometimes. He's supposedly some bad*$$ bounty hunter who sometimes even kills people, and it just did not fit the story or his character at all. It felt like the author just threw that tidbit in there to make him cool.
Again, I didn't read the other books, so maybe that would have helped the issues I had, but I just don't have any interest reading all her previous books just to understand this one. I'll add this to my did not finish pile.
I also don't like when authors take characters from other books and make them front and center in the next story. It gets to be too much trying to keep up with all these side characters and takes away from the MC's story.
I don't understand how Justin changed so much since high school. I get he was being a bully because his dad and he didn't want to out himself, but now every interaction between him and Charlie has him blushing and stammering. He was shy around a lot of people and that just doesn't fit to me.
The last thing I'll mention is Charlie's job. I found it unrealistic, and just kind of silly sometimes. He's supposedly some bad*$$ bounty hunter who sometimes even kills people, and it just did not fit the story or his character at all. It felt like the author just threw that tidbit in there to make him cool.
Again, I didn't read the other books, so maybe that would have helped the issues I had, but I just don't have any interest reading all her previous books just to understand this one. I'll add this to my did not finish pile.
September 11, 2022
Trust Kelly Fox to take a character I never thought could redeem themselves, and not only make me forgive them - but also root for their happiness? What is this sorcery?
I loved this story so much, it was an emotional read considering both Charlie and Justin's pasts, but I found the tougher topics to be very carefully and delicately handled. Even so, be sure to read the trigger warnings and be kind to yourself.
I never expected Justin and Charlie's story to be filled with so much tenderness and sweetness. I mean sure, there was tension and some hate sex at the start, but their story overall had so many sweet and tender moments to it. Justin had been the villain for a while and sort of a one-dimensional character, so to get his PoV and background was actually heartbreaking at times. He and Charlie really deserved their hard won HEA, and I just loved seeing them together.
Technically this can be read as a standalone, but it works so much better with the backstory from Rebel Sky Ranch. I’m really looking forward to this spin-off series, there were a lot of side characters that seemed like they’d have interesting stories to tell!
I loved this story so much, it was an emotional read considering both Charlie and Justin's pasts, but I found the tougher topics to be very carefully and delicately handled. Even so, be sure to read the trigger warnings and be kind to yourself.
I never expected Justin and Charlie's story to be filled with so much tenderness and sweetness. I mean sure, there was tension and some hate sex at the start, but their story overall had so many sweet and tender moments to it. Justin had been the villain for a while and sort of a one-dimensional character, so to get his PoV and background was actually heartbreaking at times. He and Charlie really deserved their hard won HEA, and I just loved seeing them together.
Technically this can be read as a standalone, but it works so much better with the backstory from Rebel Sky Ranch. I’m really looking forward to this spin-off series, there were a lot of side characters that seemed like they’d have interesting stories to tell!
August 28, 2022
2.75
Okay... why is everyone gay? I mean, don't get me wrong, obvs I like gay characters in my books, but it feels sort of forced when basically any (side) character that gets a bit of page space is either gay or a parents of a gay person (or both).
Also, the Mary Sue theme (#Charlie) is a bit ridiculous.
And, no offense, but I can't for the life of me understand why this daddy thing is spreading everywhere. Now if that's your thing, good for you, but it's definitely not mine, and the moment a couple of side characters were living out that particular part of their relationship on page (even if only for a moment), I was very close to just being done with this whole thing.
All that being said, I'm a sucker for second chances, enemies-to-lover stories, so there you go. I actually finished the whole thing. Yay.
Okay... why is everyone gay? I mean, don't get me wrong, obvs I like gay characters in my books, but it feels sort of forced when basically any (side) character that gets a bit of page space is either gay or a parents of a gay person (or both).
Also, the Mary Sue theme (#Charlie) is a bit ridiculous.
And, no offense, but I can't for the life of me understand why this daddy thing is spreading everywhere. Now if that's your thing, good for you, but it's definitely not mine, and the moment a couple of side characters were living out that particular part of their relationship on page (even if only for a moment), I was very close to just being done with this whole thing.
All that being said, I'm a sucker for second chances, enemies-to-lover stories, so there you go. I actually finished the whole thing. Yay.
September 19, 2022
Beautiful
This was such a beautiful story about healing and forgiveness.
I loved that they didn't make out like Justin's rolling Charlie's attempt wasn't a big deal and instead took the time to grow from it.
This is a book I wish I could read again from the start having never read it before.
This will definitely pull at the heart strings.
This was such a beautiful story about healing and forgiveness.
I loved that they didn't make out like Justin's rolling Charlie's attempt wasn't a big deal and instead took the time to grow from it.
This is a book I wish I could read again from the start having never read it before.
This will definitely pull at the heart strings.
August 15, 2022
Two important things before I really get into this review. Number one: read Kelly's content/trigger warning at the beginning of this book. It's important. Number two: while this *can* be read as a standalone, you will get SO MUCH MORE enjoyment from it if you read Kelly's Rebel Sky Ranch series before this book.
With that out of the way...hoooo boy this book. The first 35ish% is hard to read. It's emotional and hurtful and it's just rough...but it's completely necessary, and extraordinarily well done for the content. Just know that who these characters actually are is not who they seem in that first third of the book.
But after that, the forgiveness and the love shine through and it is absolutely beautiful to read. This is a true bully redemption story, with all the pain and hurt that turn into love and forgiveness and acceptance. You even get Kelly's trademark (and sometimes on the darker side) humor too. And also in true Kelly fashion, it is hot as hell. And there is so much snuggling!
There's a couple relationships I can guess at that are coming in this series, and as always, I can't wait to see where this group of people goes.
With that out of the way...hoooo boy this book. The first 35ish% is hard to read. It's emotional and hurtful and it's just rough...but it's completely necessary, and extraordinarily well done for the content. Just know that who these characters actually are is not who they seem in that first third of the book.
But after that, the forgiveness and the love shine through and it is absolutely beautiful to read. This is a true bully redemption story, with all the pain and hurt that turn into love and forgiveness and acceptance. You even get Kelly's trademark (and sometimes on the darker side) humor too. And also in true Kelly fashion, it is hot as hell. And there is so much snuggling!
There's a couple relationships I can guess at that are coming in this series, and as always, I can't wait to see where this group of people goes.
Did Not Finish
October 16, 2024DNF
The writing style is not for me. It’s more tedious than anything.
But besides that, the mere concept of this relationship doesn’t work for me. I love bully romances, but it is a fine line. This m/m (former) bully romance takes it a step too far because the guy who was bullied tried to kill himself BECAUSE of the bully?? Now you want me to root for them to fall in love??? No, thank you.
The writing style is not for me. It’s more tedious than anything.
But besides that, the mere concept of this relationship doesn’t work for me. I love bully romances, but it is a fine line. This m/m (former) bully romance takes it a step too far because the guy who was bullied tried to kill himself BECAUSE of the bully?? Now you want me to root for them to fall in love??? No, thank you.
April 9, 2025
Rating: 4/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Charlie and Justin
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Charlie and Justin
August 17, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
...
Narrator: Declan Winters
...
Narrator: Declan Winters
July 3, 2025
my petty ass holds a grudge for way too long for this shit. just because someone's going through something doesn't mean they don't deserve to get their ass beat idk. 2.5 rounded up for mean parking lot smut
August 31, 2022
This was a pretty good book and I really hovered between giving it three and four stars. This was legitimately a bully/enemies to lovers romance, but part of me really wished some of the animosity would’ve lasted longer? Lol. The transition to Charlie liking and subsequently loving Justin seemed super quick after everything Justin had done to him when they were in high school. Not that Charlie needed to be an asshole to him. I don’t know. It was a pretty good read that I recommend if your in the mood for a ranch setting, but also an enemies to lovers.
March 4, 2024
(3,5 stars) Charlie Wills left his small Texas hometown as a teenager after failed suicide attempt. Now all grown up and successful in his search and rescue job (both official and off the books one), he's back home with the plans of opening equine therapy center on his family's land. Unfortunately, being back home makes it impossible for him to ignore his former high school bully, Justin Jennings.
Justin and his older brother Jason, both formerly closeted gay men, were the villains in the Rebel Sky Ranch Series set in the same Texas town. (Jason got his redemption story in The Sheriff's Troublemaker. Part one was published in Dirty Daddies Pride 2022, part two is available through author's newsletter. Both parts should be published as a novella in October). Justin's internalized homophobia was one of the reasons for bullying Charlie which culminated with Charlie's suicide attempt and this was his redemption story.
Both Charlie and Justin were deeply damaged characters and while Charlie was already well on his way of living his life to the fullest, Justin's road to recovery had barely started. After Justin and Jason came out to the whole town, both brothers were trying to make amends and get their lives back on track. Most of their initial struggle was described in The Sheriff's Troublemaker while this story focuses on Justin's conflicting feelings of guilt and shame regarding the way he bullied Charlie. I really enjoy this kind of plot line and I thought it was really well done by the author here. Charlie was not intimidated by Justin nor did he forgive him easily. Justin for his part did not push for forgiveness and he was genuinely troubled and remorseful regarding his past behavior. The beginning of the story where Charlie and Justin could not help but interact with each other and clash on occasion was my favorite part of the story. But when they started getting together is were the story lost me for a while. It picked up for a bit when both Charlie and Justin had wildly differing conversations with their parents.
A lot of the characters from Rebel Sky Ranch as well as Bash family were cast as secondary characters in this story so it helps if you're already familiar with the author's multiple connected series. Desi and Sam became something of close friends to Justin while Justin's relationship with Jason was more in the background. If I hadn't read Jason's story before this one I am not sure if I would have been able to fully grasp how much the brothers really meant to each other. There was the background sex trafficking side plot (which ties into the Guardians series) which I could have lived without if I am being honest.
Charlie and Justin's story of healing and forgiveness was not an easy one, but all in all, it was a sweet story about two people who deserved second chance at life and love. This was a good introduction to a new series and I will definitely be interested in reading about some of the newly introduced characters getting their own stories.
Themes: dual POV, bully/victim, former bully redemption, past suicide attempt, small towns
Justin and his older brother Jason, both formerly closeted gay men, were the villains in the Rebel Sky Ranch Series set in the same Texas town. (Jason got his redemption story in The Sheriff's Troublemaker. Part one was published in Dirty Daddies Pride 2022, part two is available through author's newsletter. Both parts should be published as a novella in October). Justin's internalized homophobia was one of the reasons for bullying Charlie which culminated with Charlie's suicide attempt and this was his redemption story.
Both Charlie and Justin were deeply damaged characters and while Charlie was already well on his way of living his life to the fullest, Justin's road to recovery had barely started. After Justin and Jason came out to the whole town, both brothers were trying to make amends and get their lives back on track. Most of their initial struggle was described in The Sheriff's Troublemaker while this story focuses on Justin's conflicting feelings of guilt and shame regarding the way he bullied Charlie. I really enjoy this kind of plot line and I thought it was really well done by the author here. Charlie was not intimidated by Justin nor did he forgive him easily. Justin for his part did not push for forgiveness and he was genuinely troubled and remorseful regarding his past behavior. The beginning of the story where Charlie and Justin could not help but interact with each other and clash on occasion was my favorite part of the story. But when they started getting together is were the story lost me for a while. It picked up for a bit when both Charlie and Justin had wildly differing conversations with their parents.
A lot of the characters from Rebel Sky Ranch as well as Bash family were cast as secondary characters in this story so it helps if you're already familiar with the author's multiple connected series. Desi and Sam became something of close friends to Justin while Justin's relationship with Jason was more in the background. If I hadn't read Jason's story before this one I am not sure if I would have been able to fully grasp how much the brothers really meant to each other. There was the background sex trafficking side plot (which ties into the Guardians series) which I could have lived without if I am being honest.
Charlie and Justin's story of healing and forgiveness was not an easy one, but all in all, it was a sweet story about two people who deserved second chance at life and love. This was a good introduction to a new series and I will definitely be interested in reading about some of the newly introduced characters getting their own stories.
Themes: dual POV, bully/victim, former bully redemption, past suicide attempt, small towns
August 25, 2022
It was great getting to know more about Justin, who figured heavily in the Rebel Sky Ranchi series as a man with demons chasing him... and who hit rock bottom in the first part of his brother's book, The Sheriff's Troublemaker pt 1. Charlie's backstory is intertwined with the Wrecked Guardians series, but I think while it would be good to start there, it's slightly less imperative than getting Justin's history.For this reason, despite being the start of a new series, I do recommend reading at least The Sherriff's Troublemaker pt 1 (Part of the Dirty Daddies Pride anthology) before starting Sworn Enemy.
I will also say that Sworn Enemy comes with some strong trigger warnings for past attempted suicide, past substance abuse, violence and some scenes dealing with human trafficking. That being said, I think that Kelly Fox handles all of these difficult and emotional topics with grace and care, enhancing the story rather than stigmatizing or glorifying the trauma.
Full review at:
https://www.mmromancereviewed.com/202...
I will also say that Sworn Enemy comes with some strong trigger warnings for past attempted suicide, past substance abuse, violence and some scenes dealing with human trafficking. That being said, I think that Kelly Fox handles all of these difficult and emotional topics with grace and care, enhancing the story rather than stigmatizing or glorifying the trauma.
Full review at:
https://www.mmromancereviewed.com/202...
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