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The Game #11
Apex Predator
The Game Series • Book 11 • Primal Play • MMMM • D/s • Second Chances • Hurt Comfort • Vacation Romance
Pack your sunscreen and strap in for a wild ride and a kinky vacation that doesn’t go as planned.
Lane Sawyer had no complaints. Not really, anyway. After all, he’d just been invited to spend a week down in sunny Florida with his amazing boyfriend Macklin and some of his kinkster buddies. That was exactly what Lane needed. Uncomplicated fun and the promise of no drama—and hopefully a close encounter or two with the apex predator of the Everglades, the Burmese python. He loved, loved, loved reptiles.
But Florida was home to more than one apex predator. When Lane arrived, he found himself face-to-face with their host for the week, his high school girlfriend’s dad. The man who’d once made Lane realize he was into men.
Macklin McKenna couldn’t wait to get away. The problem was, he needed a vacation from himself more than DC. But maybe a week in South Florida with his friends and his adoring boyfriend Lane could distract him from the fact that he was never getting over the man he was still technically married to.
Unfortunately, Macklin’s friends were fed up with his personal agony, and they’d ensured another apex predator was on his way down South.
-
The Game Series is a BDSM series where romance meets the reality of kink. Sometimes we fall for someone we don’t match with, sometimes vanilla business gets in the way of kinky pleasure, and sometimes we have to compromise and push ourselves to overcome trauma and insecurities. No matter what, one thing is certain. This is not a perfect world—and maybe that’s why the happily ever after feels so good.
The characters in the Game Series cross over in multiple books, as we follow not only new love interests but the background friendships and dynamics of a thriving kink community. The story of Lane, Ty, Macklin, and Walker begins here—but if you’re interested in secondary characters and the Mclean House journey, you won’t regret starting at the beginning.
Pack your sunscreen and strap in for a wild ride and a kinky vacation that doesn’t go as planned.
Lane Sawyer had no complaints. Not really, anyway. After all, he’d just been invited to spend a week down in sunny Florida with his amazing boyfriend Macklin and some of his kinkster buddies. That was exactly what Lane needed. Uncomplicated fun and the promise of no drama—and hopefully a close encounter or two with the apex predator of the Everglades, the Burmese python. He loved, loved, loved reptiles.
But Florida was home to more than one apex predator. When Lane arrived, he found himself face-to-face with their host for the week, his high school girlfriend’s dad. The man who’d once made Lane realize he was into men.
Macklin McKenna couldn’t wait to get away. The problem was, he needed a vacation from himself more than DC. But maybe a week in South Florida with his friends and his adoring boyfriend Lane could distract him from the fact that he was never getting over the man he was still technically married to.
Unfortunately, Macklin’s friends were fed up with his personal agony, and they’d ensured another apex predator was on his way down South.
-
The Game Series is a BDSM series where romance meets the reality of kink. Sometimes we fall for someone we don’t match with, sometimes vanilla business gets in the way of kinky pleasure, and sometimes we have to compromise and push ourselves to overcome trauma and insecurities. No matter what, one thing is certain. This is not a perfect world—and maybe that’s why the happily ever after feels so good.
The characters in the Game Series cross over in multiple books, as we follow not only new love interests but the background friendships and dynamics of a thriving kink community. The story of Lane, Ty, Macklin, and Walker begins here—but if you’re interested in secondary characters and the Mclean House journey, you won’t regret starting at the beginning.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 24, 2023
203 people are currently reading
1958 people want to read
About the author
Cara Dee
97 books4,056 followers
I'm often stoically silent or, if the topic interests me, a chronic rambler. In other words, I can discuss writing forever and ever. Fiction, in particular. The love story—while a huge draw and constantly present—is secondary for me, because there's so much more to writing romance fiction than just making two (or more) people fall in love and have hot sex. There's a world to build, characters to develop, interests to create, and a topic or two to research thoroughly. Every book is a challenge for me, an opportunity to learn something new, and a puzzle to piece together. I want my characters to come to life, and the only way I know to do that is to give them substance—passions, history, goals, quirks, and strong opinions—and to let them evolve. Additionally, I want my men and women to be relatable. That means allowing room for everyday problems and, for lack of a better word, flaws. My characters will never be perfect.
Wait…this was supposed to be about me, not my writing.
I'm a writey person who loves to write. Always wanderlusting, twitterpating, kinking, and geeking. There's time for hockey and cupcakes, too. But mostly, I just love to write.
I'm often stoically silent or, if the topic interests me, a chronic rambler. In other words, I can discuss writing forever and ever. Fiction, in particular. The love story—while a huge draw and constantly present—is secondary for me, because there's so much more to writing romance fiction than just making two (or more) people fall in love and have hot sex. There's a world to build, characters to develop, interests to create, and a topic or two to research thoroughly. Every book is a challenge for me, an opportunity to learn something new, and a puzzle to piece together. I want my characters to come to life, and the only way I know to do that is to give them substance—passions, history, goals, quirks, and strong opinions—and to let them evolve. Additionally, I want my men and women to be relatable. That means allowing room for everyday problems and, for lack of a better word, flaws. My characters will never be perfect.
Wait…this was supposed to be about me, not my writing.
I'm a writey person who loves to write. Always wanderlusting, twitterpating, kinking, and geeking. There's time for hockey and cupcakes, too. But mostly, I just love to write.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
January 24, 2023
HOLD ONTO YOUR HATS – THIS IS A WILD RIDE!
Jeeeeeeze I haven’t got the faintest clue how to review this book without giving away too much but all I can say is hold on for a helluva ride because Cara’s not taking any prisoners.
Be aware from the start that this is a duo in the series, so you’re only getting one side of the MMMM equation here.
Although technically atm it’s more of an MM/MM with four people who are intimately in a number of different permutations.
And finally we get some of the background to the epic cluster **** that is Macklin and Walker’s relationship and marriage.
Readers should also pay attention to the potential triggers as the kink in this book goes heavily into consensual non-con and primal play.
I absolutely loved every twisted bit of it, from the explosive opener when Macklin is hurting and does something you know is going to have repercussions right through to the reptile hunt bonding of Lane and Ty.
And there, again, you know there’s going to be fireworks because Lane’s hiding a pretty big secret and it’s only a matter of time before Ty funds out.
March can’t come soon enough for Prowl and the conclusion of this set of lovers!
Jeeeeeeze I haven’t got the faintest clue how to review this book without giving away too much but all I can say is hold on for a helluva ride because Cara’s not taking any prisoners.
Be aware from the start that this is a duo in the series, so you’re only getting one side of the MMMM equation here.
Although technically atm it’s more of an MM/MM with four people who are intimately in a number of different permutations.
And finally we get some of the background to the epic cluster **** that is Macklin and Walker’s relationship and marriage.
Readers should also pay attention to the potential triggers as the kink in this book goes heavily into consensual non-con and primal play.
I absolutely loved every twisted bit of it, from the explosive opener when Macklin is hurting and does something you know is going to have repercussions right through to the reptile hunt bonding of Lane and Ty.
And there, again, you know there’s going to be fireworks because Lane’s hiding a pretty big secret and it’s only a matter of time before Ty funds out.
March can’t come soon enough for Prowl and the conclusion of this set of lovers!
April 25, 2023
Macklin y Lane se van de vacaciones a florida junto con un grupo de sus amigos de la Casa McClean, solo esperan que sus vacaciones sean divertidas y tranquilas. Para Lane es un nueva aventura en donde la mayoria de los lagartos y serpientes viven. Para Macklin es un momento para divertirse y olvidar su pasado con su esposo. Pero las cosas no resultan como ellos esperan al principio, Lane se encuentra con el hombre que desperto secretamente su sexualidad y por el que se siente atraido desde que es un adolescente. Macklin se encuentra con que esposo va a regresar a vivir en DC y que se va a unir con ellos en Florida durante las vacaciones. Ahora, los dos deben enfrentar su pasado, vivir su presente y esperar que sus decisiones los lleven a un mejor futuro.
Este libro resulta entretenido porque primero, presenta a dos personajes que han sido secundarios en mas de una historia, pero que resultan extremadamente importante en el grupo principal. Tambien vemos como el autor maneja el sindrome ADHD de Lance en sus relaciones amorosas, y como por fin conocemos la historia de Macklin y como acabo casado y separado.
Tambien nos cambia el escenario, y aunque no nos muestra realmente un "Juego", nos muestra a los personajes juguetones en mas de un momento.
En fin, es entretenido, divertido, volviendo a las raices de las historias anteriores, y aunque no es el final de estas dos parejas, por lo menos ahora sabemos con quien van a terminar y como de "abiertas" van a ser estas relaciones. Asi que seguire con el proximo libro, esperando que cierre el ciclo con estas dos parejas y el resto del grupo.
Este libro resulta entretenido porque primero, presenta a dos personajes que han sido secundarios en mas de una historia, pero que resultan extremadamente importante en el grupo principal. Tambien vemos como el autor maneja el sindrome ADHD de Lance en sus relaciones amorosas, y como por fin conocemos la historia de Macklin y como acabo casado y separado.
Tambien nos cambia el escenario, y aunque no nos muestra realmente un "Juego", nos muestra a los personajes juguetones en mas de un momento.
En fin, es entretenido, divertido, volviendo a las raices de las historias anteriores, y aunque no es el final de estas dos parejas, por lo menos ahora sabemos con quien van a terminar y como de "abiertas" van a ser estas relaciones. Asi que seguire con el proximo libro, esperando que cierre el ciclo con estas dos parejas y el resto del grupo.
January 19, 2023
This series just sucks you in. 11 books down and I’m still just as intrigued. Still just as infatuated with these characters and the ways they see life and relationships.
This book has been hotly anticipated. Macklin has been a bit of a curious secondary character for a while now. He’s young but deeply scarred by what happened in his relationship with his husband. That love and subsequent pain from their split has had a ripple effect amongst the entire group for several years. Readers of this series will know that this book is their reckoning. Their time to get it together or get over it.
But with 4 men, 2 who have grown and changed in many ways, and 2 that have a history and some little white lies between them, how is it all going to work out??
I’m so hooked on what happens next. Not just in the romance but in the action. Yes, the takedown scenes are dirty good. But who knew I’d be so invested in the rescue and re-homing of anacondas and a bunch of other Florida reptiles.
I don’t recommend coming into this series here. You could, it would still be extremely enjoyable, entertaining, eye opening and all kinds of sexy, but you’d miss out on so much history between all these characters. So many stories. So much love.
Bring on the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book has been hotly anticipated. Macklin has been a bit of a curious secondary character for a while now. He’s young but deeply scarred by what happened in his relationship with his husband. That love and subsequent pain from their split has had a ripple effect amongst the entire group for several years. Readers of this series will know that this book is their reckoning. Their time to get it together or get over it.
But with 4 men, 2 who have grown and changed in many ways, and 2 that have a history and some little white lies between them, how is it all going to work out??
I’m so hooked on what happens next. Not just in the romance but in the action. Yes, the takedown scenes are dirty good. But who knew I’d be so invested in the rescue and re-homing of anacondas and a bunch of other Florida reptiles.
I don’t recommend coming into this series here. You could, it would still be extremely enjoyable, entertaining, eye opening and all kinds of sexy, but you’d miss out on so much history between all these characters. So many stories. So much love.
Bring on the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 25, 2023
This is the first part of two books, so don’t expect a complete story here. BUT, it does end on an HFN.
I’m so relieved to finally get Macklin and Walker’s story but man is it painful. They have a lot to work through but it ends positive and hopeful. And I cannot wait for more of Ty and Lane.
There’s only like, 5 authors I auto buy from anymore, and she is one of them.
Oh and also, we get a lot of the twins and Shay in this which I adored.
Thank you, Cara, for writing consensual and informed kink that includes multiple people and couples. There are honest feelings involved without it being toxic. Thank you for writing adults. And writing like an adult. Signed: Every New Book I’ve Read This Year Has Sucked… And Most of Last Year, Too.
I’m so relieved to finally get Macklin and Walker’s story but man is it painful. They have a lot to work through but it ends positive and hopeful. And I cannot wait for more of Ty and Lane.
There’s only like, 5 authors I auto buy from anymore, and she is one of them.
Oh and also, we get a lot of the twins and Shay in this which I adored.
Thank you, Cara, for writing consensual and informed kink that includes multiple people and couples. There are honest feelings involved without it being toxic. Thank you for writing adults. And writing like an adult. Signed: Every New Book I’ve Read This Year Has Sucked… And Most of Last Year, Too.
January 25, 2023
“Everyone’s a predator until a bigger one comes along.”
EPIC.
Cara is a fucking master at writing kink. This book was a beautiful love letter to “ethical openness” in relationships. Trust too.
Ty was a nice wild card addition too. Loved getting to know his character. Ty and Lane’s chemistry was molten hot 🔥🔥🔥
We finally got the back story on the elusive Walker…Macklin’s husband. They share some kink that was SO inventive and HOT. Tentacle 🐙 bukkake anyone?? ( that won’t make it into my sanitized Amazon review 🫣😆😆)
Florida was a great backdrop to all the kinky times with sand, sun and apex predators about. Loved the atmosphere. Obviously it will leave you wanting more. Part 3/4 due out in March! A continuation of the characters plus a few surprises! One that I’m SUPER excited about. No spoilers here though. 😉😉
EPIC.
Cara is a fucking master at writing kink. This book was a beautiful love letter to “ethical openness” in relationships. Trust too.
Ty was a nice wild card addition too. Loved getting to know his character. Ty and Lane’s chemistry was molten hot 🔥🔥🔥
We finally got the back story on the elusive Walker…Macklin’s husband. They share some kink that was SO inventive and HOT. Tentacle 🐙 bukkake anyone?? ( that won’t make it into my sanitized Amazon review 🫣😆😆)
Florida was a great backdrop to all the kinky times with sand, sun and apex predators about. Loved the atmosphere. Obviously it will leave you wanting more. Part 3/4 due out in March! A continuation of the characters plus a few surprises! One that I’m SUPER excited about. No spoilers here though. 😉😉
December 1, 2024
4.25 stars! The best one in a while from this series!
September 22, 2023
Again, we have a meeting of some of the players in the previous Game series books, (I love that she does this), and we meet a new one. Ty Madison invited several of the couples down to his Florida home. Lane comes along with Macklin who he has had somewhat of a relationship with the past few years. Lane loves reptiles and is very good caring for his snakes, turtles and lizards but a vacation sounds prefect so off he goes with Macklin to south Florida. He and Ty have met before, but Ty doesn't remember the circumstances...just that Lane seems to be familiar, Lane, however, remembers very well and has to work to keep the old secret from the guy he fell for almost immediately. I don't think it would have been a big deal as it had happened so long ago...but that's our Lane. Better safe than sorry. Lane and Ty feel an immediate attraction but they limit their interactions to working together to keep some of South Florida's scale covered "Apex Predators" under control...instead of the two-legged ones that are on their way from McClean House to join the party at Ty's, These predators that Ty and Lane are hunting are introduced species that are overflowing the region as the result of people, buying "pets" that will grow up to 25 to 30 feet and can weight more than their owners. This is for real information that the author has made part of the story... and as a biologist, I thank Cara Dee for taking the opportunity to use this story to point out just how destructive these "thrown-away" pets can be. We also see Mackin working on having a reunion with his husband, Walker, that he hadn't seen in ten-years. I won't say how that reunion turned out, but book #12 will cover Mackin & Walker's story in full. This is a great story and part of a really addictive series. I hope that this author will just keep adding books to it since I'm almost at the last book. On to book #12.
March 4, 2023
*3.5 stars*
March 10, 2024
reread (2.75/5).
Lane’s and Macklin’s relationship was nice but also rather superficial. I get why that was the case but I wasn’t the biggest fan of that.
Macklin’s relationship with Walter was one big shit show. Since book one — well, technically book two — we knew this would happen.
That about sums it up. I felt for Macklin. I really did.
What I really enjoyed about this book was the “no label” squad. Both Lane and Ty were rather flexible with their approach to kink and I liked that. The downside of this was that their scenes were chaotic and very spontaneous. Details weren’t part of their scene and I think that threw me off when I first read this book. I’m still not a fan of their dynamic but I can appreciate the uniqueness of their approach to kink.
With Mack and Walker finally getting there act together the plot picked up a bit. I also enjoyed their approach to reconnect and to build a relationship with each other but also with Lane (and Ty) that fit their lifestyle.
The Game was nice but that’s about it. I don’t think it was my favourite even though it kinda worked as the breaking point for Mack and Walker.
Other than that I can’t say I was a big fan of this book. I don’t know. I just couldn’t connect with the characters and the two parts of the story weren’t necessarily my thing either.
———
previous rating: 3/5.
It took me a hot minute to get into the story. Not because of the characters but because of the structure of the book. I didn’t necessarily like the first prologue to be honest. Not the best start into the story in my opinion.
Part one was okay, I think. I enjoyed the general idea behind the storyline. The kinks Lane and Ty are into were nice but I honestly didn’t like how little details their scene had. I wasn’t that big of a fan because of that.
I am not sure how I felt about the first half of part two either. It felt just like a hell of a long prologue to the actual story which seems to be the next book.
But “the game” in this book was hot. From that point on, the story really got a lot better. The characters finally found their places, which was a long time coming, and their relationships as well as the chemistry between them finally started to make sense.
I am hopeful that the next book (the next chapter for the four of them) will be better!
Lane’s and Macklin’s relationship was nice but also rather superficial. I get why that was the case but I wasn’t the biggest fan of that.
Macklin’s relationship with Walter was one big shit show. Since book one — well, technically book two — we knew this would happen.
“Do you know what it’s like to hate the love of your life?”
That about sums it up. I felt for Macklin. I really did.
What I really enjoyed about this book was the “no label” squad. Both Lane and Ty were rather flexible with their approach to kink and I liked that. The downside of this was that their scenes were chaotic and very spontaneous. Details weren’t part of their scene and I think that threw me off when I first read this book. I’m still not a fan of their dynamic but I can appreciate the uniqueness of their approach to kink.
“Knowing that I can put a stop to everything with a safeword is the only life vest I’m interested in. That’s BDSM to me. But, you know, some would argue it’s not enough to be considered informed consent.”
With Mack and Walker finally getting there act together the plot picked up a bit. I also enjoyed their approach to reconnect and to build a relationship with each other but also with Lane (and Ty) that fit their lifestyle.
“I’m not equipped to love equally. I need to be the primary of the one who’s my number one, and I think it’s because my heart is absurdly monogamous when the rest of me isn’t.”
The Game was nice but that’s about it. I don’t think it was my favourite even though it kinda worked as the breaking point for Mack and Walker.
“We’re going to make it, Macklin. Tonight was just the beginning.”
Other than that I can’t say I was a big fan of this book. I don’t know. I just couldn’t connect with the characters and the two parts of the story weren’t necessarily my thing either.
———
previous rating: 3/5.
It took me a hot minute to get into the story. Not because of the characters but because of the structure of the book. I didn’t necessarily like the first prologue to be honest. Not the best start into the story in my opinion.
Part one was okay, I think. I enjoyed the general idea behind the storyline. The kinks Lane and Ty are into were nice but I honestly didn’t like how little details their scene had. I wasn’t that big of a fan because of that.
I am not sure how I felt about the first half of part two either. It felt just like a hell of a long prologue to the actual story which seems to be the next book.
But “the game” in this book was hot. From that point on, the story really got a lot better. The characters finally found their places, which was a long time coming, and their relationships as well as the chemistry between them finally started to make sense.
I am hopeful that the next book (the next chapter for the four of them) will be better!
March 23, 2023
Took me ages to get into this one, I couldn’t remember who all the characters were and the prologue threw me as to what was actually going in. It just felt all rather disjointed and none of the couples had much depth. The 4 POV’s didn’t help with that. The main character I was interested in was Macklin because his relationship with his ex-husband has been built up throughout the whole series but disappointingly this was resolved quickly and far more easily than I was expecting. I get this is a duology so don’t want to be too judgy until book 2 comes out but the Macklin resolution was a let down.
September 20, 2025
This book and the following one tell the story of the second foursome of the series, although unlike the Lucian/Cam/Noa/KC one, in this case it’s more like two couples coming together…while also being linked through other connections…yes, I know it sounds complicated, it is less so when you read about it than when you try to explain it.
To simplify, in this book we get to see some of the Mclean House guys going to Florida after Christmas to join a new member and Colt’s friend and coworker, Ty, at his house. Macklin is one of them and he invites Lane, his boyfriend, who also happens to
Enter Macklin, who’s very supportive of Lane and Ty’s relationship because he and Lane are in an open relationship, in part because Macklin can’t get over his estranged husband, Walker. And that’s the other big part of this story. We’ve known for most of the series about Walker and Macklin’s relationship and in this book, we get to see things finally in motion for their reunion. That was the part I was most interested in, and it didn’t disappoint, but I also loved the relationship between Macklin and Lane, getting to know Lane and Ty and seeing their relationship blossom, even though outside of bed they bonded mostly over their shared love for reptiles and, while it was unusual and interesting to read about, I couldn’t really relate. Once again, it was interesting to see a new set of characters bring a fresh take on the BDSM aspect of a relationship. On that matter, Ty and Lane clicked like two pieces of a puzzle, exactly like Macklin and Walker, but in a very different way.
By the time this book ended, the two pairings were headed in the right direction, but nothing was truly settled and that made sense since Apex Predator and Prowl are practically one book made of four parts split into two books. There isn’t a cliffhanger or anything like that, but I was very glad the next book was already available when I finished this one.
To simplify, in this book we get to see some of the Mclean House guys going to Florida after Christmas to join a new member and Colt’s friend and coworker, Ty, at his house. Macklin is one of them and he invites Lane, his boyfriend, who also happens to
Enter Macklin, who’s very supportive of Lane and Ty’s relationship because he and Lane are in an open relationship, in part because Macklin can’t get over his estranged husband, Walker. And that’s the other big part of this story. We’ve known for most of the series about Walker and Macklin’s relationship and in this book, we get to see things finally in motion for their reunion. That was the part I was most interested in, and it didn’t disappoint, but I also loved the relationship between Macklin and Lane, getting to know Lane and Ty and seeing their relationship blossom, even though outside of bed they bonded mostly over their shared love for reptiles and, while it was unusual and interesting to read about, I couldn’t really relate. Once again, it was interesting to see a new set of characters bring a fresh take on the BDSM aspect of a relationship. On that matter, Ty and Lane clicked like two pieces of a puzzle, exactly like Macklin and Walker, but in a very different way.
By the time this book ended, the two pairings were headed in the right direction, but nothing was truly settled and that made sense since Apex Predator and Prowl are practically one book made of four parts split into two books. There isn’t a cliffhanger or anything like that, but I was very glad the next book was already available when I finished this one.
January 24, 2023
A masterly written story, I was glued to the pages. I don’t know where to start.
A week vacation to Florida at Ty’s property was just what Macklin needed. Mack’s kinky friends are there, and last minute Lane, Macklin’s boyfriend will join. River, Reese, Shay, Colt, Kit, Lucas, and Ty will be there.
Lane almost fainted when he understands Ty will be there. Would the man recognize him?
Macklin is still grieving, it’s been four years since he told Walker he’s done, they never divorced!
What he doesn’t know, Walker will come to Florida, he wants Macklin back.
The intervention was grand.
“The healing had begun.”
It’s all too wonderful and beautiful to put in words, be still my heart!
All these men together were just mind-blowing! Macklin and Walker are everything.
The consensual non-con scene was everything! Look at the title, dang! Hot hot!
I was flabbergasted by the snake and lizard hunts, Ty and Lane were amazing!
Without giving too much away, there are so many feelings flowing through the pages.
It was everything to see ALL those real feelings, raw, delicate, honest, vulnerable, so much love, I’m gonna cry satisfying tears now. Can’t wait for part 2!
A week vacation to Florida at Ty’s property was just what Macklin needed. Mack’s kinky friends are there, and last minute Lane, Macklin’s boyfriend will join. River, Reese, Shay, Colt, Kit, Lucas, and Ty will be there.
Lane almost fainted when he understands Ty will be there. Would the man recognize him?
Macklin is still grieving, it’s been four years since he told Walker he’s done, they never divorced!
What he doesn’t know, Walker will come to Florida, he wants Macklin back.
The intervention was grand.
“The healing had begun.”
It’s all too wonderful and beautiful to put in words, be still my heart!
All these men together were just mind-blowing! Macklin and Walker are everything.
The consensual non-con scene was everything! Look at the title, dang! Hot hot!
I was flabbergasted by the snake and lizard hunts, Ty and Lane were amazing!
Without giving too much away, there are so many feelings flowing through the pages.
It was everything to see ALL those real feelings, raw, delicate, honest, vulnerable, so much love, I’m gonna cry satisfying tears now. Can’t wait for part 2!
December 13, 2024
Now this is part of the series where i think it really did plumet down to south pole....I dont even think Cara Dee is the one writing this anymore, the characters just feel like theyre missing core parts of themselves and now just become words on a page that us readers are supposed to think is an importance to the story—oh wait,. There is no story
January 25, 2023
* 5 stars *
"Apex Predator" is split into two parts, and there's another book coming, "Prowl", to conclude the story with another two parts, I suppose. But it seems fair since we have four MCs here. Essentially it's two couples with many connections between them, but it's clear who the primary partners are.
We have Ty and Lane, both new characters with just a few appearances so far and some mentions. They had briefly known each other in the past, and they're the newest recruits for Mclean House.
The second couple is the one I'm most excited about. It's Macklin and Walker! They're finally getting their second chance, and we're finally getting their whole story. Their beginning, their relationship, their wedding, what went wrong, and how they were together. There's no one to blame for the situation they're in. Their timing was off, and they couldn't make their relationship work, no matter how much they wanted to be together and how much they loved each other.
Technically this story could be read as a standalone duology within the series, but at this point, I'm not sure that would be enough to enjoy it. The characters are a very tight-knit group, and they spend a lot of time together. Each story depends a lot on the side characters, so if you just jump in here without knowing any of the characters from the previous books, I think it's possible to get overwhelmed by all the names. The author does a great job of keeping things that happened in previous books separate, and there's always a brief introduction of any character mentioned for the first time in any book. However, II think it could still be difficult to keep track of the many secondary characters if you don't "know" them already.
As for the fans of the series, you likely already know how much Cara Dee loves revisiting her past characters, and this story is no exception. Many characters are getting a lot of page time as supporting cast, and it was wonderful to see them again. But I have a complaint... Where was Noa??? I needed some Noa shenanigans. I think that no book in The Game series should be completed without a Noa appearance, even if it's just over the phone.
Lastly, let me talk a little bit about the locations. I don't know if Cara Dee has ever been to South Florida and the Ten Thousand Islands, but she has a knack for describing the places her characters go. I think that she only writes about places she's been to herself, but I could be off. My point is that she's always so good at setting the location of her stories, sharing little details that you wouldn't know just by looking at a picture, that I'm always searching to see those places on a map because her descriptions make me want to have a clearer picture. They're so vivid, so detailed (without being overdone), and so intriguing.
I just realized that she's the only author that I'll always search for the location of where her stories take place. I'll do it here and there for other authors' stories, but it's a constant with this one. I just love her descriptions. They're not boring paragraphs of info dumps; they're interspersed in the plot, little details that make the story more real, enough to pique your interest and make it easier to imagine where the characters are.
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
"Apex Predator" is split into two parts, and there's another book coming, "Prowl", to conclude the story with another two parts, I suppose. But it seems fair since we have four MCs here. Essentially it's two couples with many connections between them, but it's clear who the primary partners are.
We have Ty and Lane, both new characters with just a few appearances so far and some mentions. They had briefly known each other in the past, and they're the newest recruits for Mclean House.
The second couple is the one I'm most excited about. It's Macklin and Walker! They're finally getting their second chance, and we're finally getting their whole story. Their beginning, their relationship, their wedding, what went wrong, and how they were together. There's no one to blame for the situation they're in. Their timing was off, and they couldn't make their relationship work, no matter how much they wanted to be together and how much they loved each other.
Technically this story could be read as a standalone duology within the series, but at this point, I'm not sure that would be enough to enjoy it. The characters are a very tight-knit group, and they spend a lot of time together. Each story depends a lot on the side characters, so if you just jump in here without knowing any of the characters from the previous books, I think it's possible to get overwhelmed by all the names. The author does a great job of keeping things that happened in previous books separate, and there's always a brief introduction of any character mentioned for the first time in any book. However, II think it could still be difficult to keep track of the many secondary characters if you don't "know" them already.
As for the fans of the series, you likely already know how much Cara Dee loves revisiting her past characters, and this story is no exception. Many characters are getting a lot of page time as supporting cast, and it was wonderful to see them again. But I have a complaint... Where was Noa??? I needed some Noa shenanigans. I think that no book in The Game series should be completed without a Noa appearance, even if it's just over the phone.
Lastly, let me talk a little bit about the locations. I don't know if Cara Dee has ever been to South Florida and the Ten Thousand Islands, but she has a knack for describing the places her characters go. I think that she only writes about places she's been to herself, but I could be off. My point is that she's always so good at setting the location of her stories, sharing little details that you wouldn't know just by looking at a picture, that I'm always searching to see those places on a map because her descriptions make me want to have a clearer picture. They're so vivid, so detailed (without being overdone), and so intriguing.
I just realized that she's the only author that I'll always search for the location of where her stories take place. I'll do it here and there for other authors' stories, but it's a constant with this one. I just love her descriptions. They're not boring paragraphs of info dumps; they're interspersed in the plot, little details that make the story more real, enough to pique your interest and make it easier to imagine where the characters are.
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
January 26, 2023
Cara is one of the few MM authors that are still autobuy worthy. She writes actual adults who communicate. All of her characters are different and interesting. All of the kink is in depth and believable. I adore this world and cannot get enough.
That being said. Bring Noa back!! I missed him 🥺
That being said. Bring Noa back!! I missed him 🥺
July 22, 2025
Rating: 5
Steam: 4
PoV: multiple, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, BDSM, MMMM
Tropes / tags: age gap, second chance, found family
I don't even know where to start, this series just keeps getting better and better with each book. Apex Predator was a phenomenal read; so layered, full of emotions, and I couldn't put it down even for a moment.
Macklin completely caught my heart, he just felt so lost and sad. I've wanted the background on him and Walker for a long time and I loved the glimpses that were shown. There was a lot about relationships and dynamics brought up, and it's something I've spent some time thinking about after I finished reading. I'm very intrigued about what Macklin and Walker's dynamic will end up looking like - I'm loving their second chance and I'm convinced that Walker will be good for Macklin. Their situation always felt unfinished to me, like they were just waiting for the moment to give their marriage another chance.
Lane and Ty's dynamic was fire and I can't wait to see what their attraction will develop into! Their chemistry was explosive and I loved how they seemed to be absolutely perfect for each other. Ty kept being a bit of a mystery throughout the book, he wasn't saying much about himself so I'm still a bit curious about him. Lane was an interesting character with his love for reptilians and primal play... His relationship with Macklin was so sweet, it was very clear how much he cared for Macklin and wanted what was best for him. I'm really intrigued about what all of the relationships and dynamics between these characters will develop into.
The kink was incredible as always, I loved the consensual non-con and primal play, it was so hot! The head games were on point here, it was a lot of fun to see the way the sadist were playing with their preys before attacking. There was also some group play and sharing, so be careful if anything mentioned is triggering for you.
I can't recommend this series enough, these characters and stories are totally captivating! I'm really thrilled about getting another book with these men, and I can't wait to see how they will work things out!
-
I received an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 4
PoV: multiple, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, BDSM, MMMM
Tropes / tags: age gap, second chance, found family
I don't even know where to start, this series just keeps getting better and better with each book. Apex Predator was a phenomenal read; so layered, full of emotions, and I couldn't put it down even for a moment.
Macklin completely caught my heart, he just felt so lost and sad. I've wanted the background on him and Walker for a long time and I loved the glimpses that were shown. There was a lot about relationships and dynamics brought up, and it's something I've spent some time thinking about after I finished reading. I'm very intrigued about what Macklin and Walker's dynamic will end up looking like - I'm loving their second chance and I'm convinced that Walker will be good for Macklin. Their situation always felt unfinished to me, like they were just waiting for the moment to give their marriage another chance.
Lane and Ty's dynamic was fire and I can't wait to see what their attraction will develop into! Their chemistry was explosive and I loved how they seemed to be absolutely perfect for each other. Ty kept being a bit of a mystery throughout the book, he wasn't saying much about himself so I'm still a bit curious about him. Lane was an interesting character with his love for reptilians and primal play... His relationship with Macklin was so sweet, it was very clear how much he cared for Macklin and wanted what was best for him. I'm really intrigued about what all of the relationships and dynamics between these characters will develop into.
The kink was incredible as always, I loved the consensual non-con and primal play, it was so hot! The head games were on point here, it was a lot of fun to see the way the sadist were playing with their preys before attacking. There was also some group play and sharing, so be careful if anything mentioned is triggering for you.
I can't recommend this series enough, these characters and stories are totally captivating! I'm really thrilled about getting another book with these men, and I can't wait to see how they will work things out!
-
I received an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
January 25, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
Hoo, baby. There is some wild stuff going on here!
Soooooooooo I’m about to launch into several paragraphs of low-key grumbling. Before that, though, some necessary context:
THIS BOOK – THIS WHOLE SERIES – IS ADDICTIVE KINKY BOOK CRACK. INJECT THIS YUMMINESS STRAIGHT INTO MY EYEBALLS!!!!
OK, now for some for real, actually necessary context: one of Lane’s core kinks is consensual non-con and dubcon, including rapeplay, and this features in the hunt sequence. Lane discusses his kinks and limits with Ty, and Ty later discusses the proposed scene with Macklin. The scene is then shown on-page from Macklin’s POV, as someone who is witnessing and peripherally involved as a third party. I have a pretty high tolerance for reading kink, including those kinks that don’t do anything for me one way or the other, but I have to admit that reading this made me squirmy. I would say that the specific scene could easily be skipped without losing anything (the hunt sequence stretches over chapters 7 and 8, but the actual scene itself is at the beginning of chapter 8); but I would also say that if this kink is triggering or outside your comfort zone, you may be better off giving this arc a miss, given that there is reference to it throughout. The hunt scene overall is pretty intense for all the subs.
Right, necessary stuff over; cue the low-key grumbling. Which again, should be understood in the context of my high levels of enjoyment of this series. But – overall, this didn’t work as well for me as the OG triad or the Finlay foursome. Note that this is the first of a two-book arc, and I might re-read and re-rank once the second book is out and we get more resolution on the dynamic. This reads very incomplete, not in terms of shoddy writing or execution, but in terms of story – and that’s because it is incomplete, and the next book will presumably resolve all the untied threads from this one. As it stands now, while I definitely glommed this (yeah: book crack), I still don’t have much of a sense for how these four guys work, or will work, or should work separately and together.
The book is organized into two parts and – unusually for this series, which is primarily one POV per book – we get dual POVs, Lane in part 1 (with a bit of Ty POV thrown in) and Macklin in part 2 (ditto Walker). This might explain why the overall dynamic didn’t really mesh for me. After a very short period of circling each other warily, Lane and Ty have an explosive night early in the holiday and then, in part 2, pretty much disappear from the narrative. I mean, they’re there and shagging like bunnies in the background (and there is the aforementioned rapeplay/hunt scene), but once we shift over to Macklin’s POV, their story is just completely suspended. The problem here isn’t so much that it's dual POV; it’s that, one, the POV’s are told in separate parts rather than interwoven, and two, each POV is focused on its own pairing. So even though the other characters are popping up and occasionally interacting, the two storylines are essentially estranged: Lane is focused on Ty, Macklin is focused on Walker, and barely the twain shall meet.
The conflict being set up in the Lane POV is that Lane is hiding that he dated Ty’s daughter in high school before realizing he wanted Ty instead (no spoiler tag because this is in the blurb). And he’s hiding this both because he’s embarrassed, but mostly because Ty makes some offhand comments about what losers his daughter’s boyfriends have all been. This is really low stakes and just plain dumb. I mean, lying is bad, obviously, but I genuinely don’t see how this is some big nefarious secret that has the potential to scuttle anything. Although, to Lane’s credit, he knows it’s dumb; his problem is that once he’s lied about not knowing Ty from before, he feels compelled to stick to his dumb, dumb path.
The bigger problem is that I don’t really have a sense of Lane or his dynamic with Macklin; the focus shifts so swiftly to Lane-Ty that I never got a handle on Lane-Macklin. They are supposed to be boyfriends in an open relationship, but they read as friends-with-benefits; there is very little discernible difference in their interaction versus the interaction between Macklin and Shay (or Kit, for that matter), both of whom are very much in the affectionate-friends-plus-play category. We keep getting told that Lane and Macklin adore (but by mutual agreement, don’t love) each other, but they hardly interact in any meaningful, much less boyfriend-y way once Ty and Walker come into the picture. And Lane is almost as invested in Macklin’s relationship with Walker as Macklin is, despite the fact that, from an outsider’s view, the Macklin-Walker relationship is not a healthy one. (Seriously. Why is anyone rooting for this? It screams dysfunction!) It’s not that I don’t like Lane or Lane and Macklin together; I just don't understand what their relationship is supposed to be since there’s nothing that screams “boyfriend” about it, so it's more tell than show. Lane and Ty are, in that sense, an easier sell: they’re attracted to each other, they share a passion for reptiles, and their kinks line up. But that’s all we have to go on for now, since their arc ends almost immediately after their first hookup. We get hot-holiday-fuckmance, which, yay!, but it’s just left hanging there.
The Macklin and Walker storyline is a toughie. One the one hand, their first meeting and the good stuff Macklin recalls is lovely and intoxicating. On the other hand, Cara Dee has written a relationship that also reads as realistically co-dependent and toxic, and one that fucked both men up hard. Which means that the second-chance part has to really be sold. And I’m not 100 percent convinced yet. I definitely could be convinced, but I also think that the reconciliation – which they both agree is a work-in-progress – was too quick. Literally a huge amount of dread and upset and anticipation before Walker arrives, then one conversation and then the hunt, and then, BAM! – they are back in a committed relationship, albeit with completely different (and still undetermined) parameters than their previous one. They are both still possessive and obsessed with the other; on the flip side, they are both also committed to learning from and changing their past patterns and mistakes. This is obviously good, but after all the buildup it felt a bit too easy. Meanwhile, we’re meant to believe that Ty and Walker are bonding over their shared dom-miness – but again, we’re not really seeing it, just getting references to it in Macklin’s POV. We’ll get Ty and Walker’s POV in the next book, but right now it’s all just too little sketched in.
So part 2 of the duology definitely has a bit of work to do to sell these relationships, both the separate pairings (Macklin-Walker and Ty-Lane and Lane-Macklin) and whatever overarching dynamic they’re heading for. It’s not that I don’t buy it, necessarily. I can see how the kinks line up, and the attraction, and the history as both push and pull factor. It’s just that I feel we’re less grounded in these characters and the shape of these relationships than in the other arcs I’ve read.
That said: great to get more insight into River, Reese, and Shay, and to see a bit more of Colt, Lucas, and Kit. Corey’s text to Lane was hilariously and relatably unsympathetic, and hopefully we’ll get more Corey (and Sloan and Archie and Greer) in the next installment once everyone’s back in DC. The writing was great, and the Florida setting and reptile stuff was evocative and well done.
And – well, see above. This may not have been my favorite, but it’s still addictive kinky book crack. INJECT IT!!!!
Hoo, baby. There is some wild stuff going on here!
Soooooooooo I’m about to launch into several paragraphs of low-key grumbling. Before that, though, some necessary context:
THIS BOOK – THIS WHOLE SERIES – IS ADDICTIVE KINKY BOOK CRACK. INJECT THIS YUMMINESS STRAIGHT INTO MY EYEBALLS!!!!
OK, now for some for real, actually necessary context: one of Lane’s core kinks is consensual non-con and dubcon, including rapeplay, and this features in the hunt sequence. Lane discusses his kinks and limits with Ty, and Ty later discusses the proposed scene with Macklin. The scene is then shown on-page from Macklin’s POV, as someone who is witnessing and peripherally involved as a third party. I have a pretty high tolerance for reading kink, including those kinks that don’t do anything for me one way or the other, but I have to admit that reading this made me squirmy. I would say that the specific scene could easily be skipped without losing anything (the hunt sequence stretches over chapters 7 and 8, but the actual scene itself is at the beginning of chapter 8); but I would also say that if this kink is triggering or outside your comfort zone, you may be better off giving this arc a miss, given that there is reference to it throughout. The hunt scene overall is pretty intense for all the subs.
Right, necessary stuff over; cue the low-key grumbling. Which again, should be understood in the context of my high levels of enjoyment of this series. But – overall, this didn’t work as well for me as the OG triad or the Finlay foursome. Note that this is the first of a two-book arc, and I might re-read and re-rank once the second book is out and we get more resolution on the dynamic. This reads very incomplete, not in terms of shoddy writing or execution, but in terms of story – and that’s because it is incomplete, and the next book will presumably resolve all the untied threads from this one. As it stands now, while I definitely glommed this (yeah: book crack), I still don’t have much of a sense for how these four guys work, or will work, or should work separately and together.
The book is organized into two parts and – unusually for this series, which is primarily one POV per book – we get dual POVs, Lane in part 1 (with a bit of Ty POV thrown in) and Macklin in part 2 (ditto Walker). This might explain why the overall dynamic didn’t really mesh for me. After a very short period of circling each other warily, Lane and Ty have an explosive night early in the holiday and then, in part 2, pretty much disappear from the narrative. I mean, they’re there and shagging like bunnies in the background (and there is the aforementioned rapeplay/hunt scene), but once we shift over to Macklin’s POV, their story is just completely suspended. The problem here isn’t so much that it's dual POV; it’s that, one, the POV’s are told in separate parts rather than interwoven, and two, each POV is focused on its own pairing. So even though the other characters are popping up and occasionally interacting, the two storylines are essentially estranged: Lane is focused on Ty, Macklin is focused on Walker, and barely the twain shall meet.
The conflict being set up in the Lane POV is that Lane is hiding that he dated Ty’s daughter in high school before realizing he wanted Ty instead (no spoiler tag because this is in the blurb). And he’s hiding this both because he’s embarrassed, but mostly because Ty makes some offhand comments about what losers his daughter’s boyfriends have all been. This is really low stakes and just plain dumb. I mean, lying is bad, obviously, but I genuinely don’t see how this is some big nefarious secret that has the potential to scuttle anything. Although, to Lane’s credit, he knows it’s dumb; his problem is that once he’s lied about not knowing Ty from before, he feels compelled to stick to his dumb, dumb path.
The bigger problem is that I don’t really have a sense of Lane or his dynamic with Macklin; the focus shifts so swiftly to Lane-Ty that I never got a handle on Lane-Macklin. They are supposed to be boyfriends in an open relationship, but they read as friends-with-benefits; there is very little discernible difference in their interaction versus the interaction between Macklin and Shay (or Kit, for that matter), both of whom are very much in the affectionate-friends-plus-play category. We keep getting told that Lane and Macklin adore (but by mutual agreement, don’t love) each other, but they hardly interact in any meaningful, much less boyfriend-y way once Ty and Walker come into the picture. And Lane is almost as invested in Macklin’s relationship with Walker as Macklin is, despite the fact that, from an outsider’s view, the Macklin-Walker relationship is not a healthy one. (Seriously. Why is anyone rooting for this? It screams dysfunction!) It’s not that I don’t like Lane or Lane and Macklin together; I just don't understand what their relationship is supposed to be since there’s nothing that screams “boyfriend” about it, so it's more tell than show. Lane and Ty are, in that sense, an easier sell: they’re attracted to each other, they share a passion for reptiles, and their kinks line up. But that’s all we have to go on for now, since their arc ends almost immediately after their first hookup. We get hot-holiday-fuckmance, which, yay!, but it’s just left hanging there.
The Macklin and Walker storyline is a toughie. One the one hand, their first meeting and the good stuff Macklin recalls is lovely and intoxicating. On the other hand, Cara Dee has written a relationship that also reads as realistically co-dependent and toxic, and one that fucked both men up hard. Which means that the second-chance part has to really be sold. And I’m not 100 percent convinced yet. I definitely could be convinced, but I also think that the reconciliation – which they both agree is a work-in-progress – was too quick. Literally a huge amount of dread and upset and anticipation before Walker arrives, then one conversation and then the hunt, and then, BAM! – they are back in a committed relationship, albeit with completely different (and still undetermined) parameters than their previous one. They are both still possessive and obsessed with the other; on the flip side, they are both also committed to learning from and changing their past patterns and mistakes. This is obviously good, but after all the buildup it felt a bit too easy. Meanwhile, we’re meant to believe that Ty and Walker are bonding over their shared dom-miness – but again, we’re not really seeing it, just getting references to it in Macklin’s POV. We’ll get Ty and Walker’s POV in the next book, but right now it’s all just too little sketched in.
So part 2 of the duology definitely has a bit of work to do to sell these relationships, both the separate pairings (Macklin-Walker and Ty-Lane and Lane-Macklin) and whatever overarching dynamic they’re heading for. It’s not that I don’t buy it, necessarily. I can see how the kinks line up, and the attraction, and the history as both push and pull factor. It’s just that I feel we’re less grounded in these characters and the shape of these relationships than in the other arcs I’ve read.
That said: great to get more insight into River, Reese, and Shay, and to see a bit more of Colt, Lucas, and Kit. Corey’s text to Lane was hilariously and relatably unsympathetic, and hopefully we’ll get more Corey (and Sloan and Archie and Greer) in the next installment once everyone’s back in DC. The writing was great, and the Florida setting and reptile stuff was evocative and well done.
And – well, see above. This may not have been my favorite, but it’s still addictive kinky book crack. INJECT IT!!!!
January 15, 2023
“As a couple, Walker and I had created a beautiful toxin we’d poisoned ourselves with.”-Macklin
So many wonderful layers in this one. You definitely want to have read the previous books in the series, as that will make Apex Predator so much more enjoyable. This book is told in two parts, mostly from Lane and Macklin’s POV.
Part 1: Ty and Lane
Lane and Ty developed a super sexy dynamic. I loved their interactions surrounding the reptiles and they had chemistry for days. I’m not a fan of the whole “He doesn’t recognize me so I’m gonna keep acting like a stranger” routine. One would think, especially in the kink community, that Lane would know that honesty is the best policy. So when Ty doesn’t recognize Lane as his daughters ex boyfriend from years ago, Lane runs with it. Still, it was interesting to see how Lane and Ty’s likes aligned and how they really put those things into action.
Part 2: Macklin and Walker
We have been chomping at the bit to learn more about Macklin and Walker’s past. Married, but not together, and both suffering for it. Walker is back to claim his husband but they certainly have some work to do. I was happy to see that they could have an honest conversation with one another and start healing. Both men have changed, they just have to realize that it was for the better.
The takedown scene of all three subbies was superbly written. All these facets come together to make for some delicious reading. River, Reese, Shay, Colt, Kit and Lucas are all along for the ride and it was spectacular. So many things in this book come together wonderful to make for great reading. I cannot wait for the next book, Prowl, which will be told primarily from Ty and Walker’s POV. Apex Predator is another win from Cara Dee.
So many wonderful layers in this one. You definitely want to have read the previous books in the series, as that will make Apex Predator so much more enjoyable. This book is told in two parts, mostly from Lane and Macklin’s POV.
Part 1: Ty and Lane
Lane and Ty developed a super sexy dynamic. I loved their interactions surrounding the reptiles and they had chemistry for days. I’m not a fan of the whole “He doesn’t recognize me so I’m gonna keep acting like a stranger” routine. One would think, especially in the kink community, that Lane would know that honesty is the best policy. So when Ty doesn’t recognize Lane as his daughters ex boyfriend from years ago, Lane runs with it. Still, it was interesting to see how Lane and Ty’s likes aligned and how they really put those things into action.
Part 2: Macklin and Walker
We have been chomping at the bit to learn more about Macklin and Walker’s past. Married, but not together, and both suffering for it. Walker is back to claim his husband but they certainly have some work to do. I was happy to see that they could have an honest conversation with one another and start healing. Both men have changed, they just have to realize that it was for the better.
The takedown scene of all three subbies was superbly written. All these facets come together to make for some delicious reading. River, Reese, Shay, Colt, Kit and Lucas are all along for the ride and it was spectacular. So many things in this book come together wonderful to make for great reading. I cannot wait for the next book, Prowl, which will be told primarily from Ty and Walker’s POV. Apex Predator is another win from Cara Dee.
February 26, 2025
4.25 ✨
This one is hard to rate because the story is incomplete. All in all, it had a lot of the elements that I love in The Game books, and the game itself was really fun. I love when it’s clear everyone is really getting what they want out of the event instead of it being very Doms vs subs and only the Doms seem like they’re having fun. I guess I’m just an empath or something. Also Kit skipping around in the woods dropping flares all over the place made me LOL. Will report back after the second part of the story in the next book 🫡
This one is hard to rate because the story is incomplete. All in all, it had a lot of the elements that I love in The Game books, and the game itself was really fun. I love when it’s clear everyone is really getting what they want out of the event instead of it being very Doms vs subs and only the Doms seem like they’re having fun. I guess I’m just an empath or something. Also Kit skipping around in the woods dropping flares all over the place made me LOL. Will report back after the second part of the story in the next book 🫡
January 16, 2023
Apex Predator is the first part of Macklin, Walker, Ty and Lane's story, mostly told from Lane and Macklin's POV. I wouldn't recommend to start the series with this book, since there'd be a wealth of background info missing, especially the stories of the side characters playing a pivotal role in the storyline. I found that, unlike previous books, this one is very heavy on the physical side of things with less emotional impact on me. True to the title, the play is mostly primal, so prepare for same serious hunting!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2023
This was so good! I am so glad to finally be getting Macklin’s story as I’ve been so curious about him since we first really heard of him in Breathless. I love reading more about Lane as well and the dynamic between Lane and Macklin as well learning more about Ty and Walker.
This book had me wanting more and more. I could go on for hours about what I liked about this book including the appearances of some of my fav characters.
This book had me wanting more and more. I could go on for hours about what I liked about this book including the appearances of some of my fav characters.
October 16, 2024
That tentacle scene was the hottest thing I think I've ever read.
April 8, 2023
Such a good book❤️❤️ I love Mack and Walkers story and can’t wait for the rest of Lane and Ty’s story in the next book😍 and of course the book is 🔥🔥 as f#%^
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
August 27, 2023
Okay, wow. We've all been waiting for this book, right? We NEEDED to know what happened between Macklin and Walker, and we really needed Walker to come back and put my baby Macklin's heart back together. I knew going in this book would have some angst because I knew how Walker made Macklin spiral, but Cara Dee's angst never feels unnecessary. You know how some books just hit with you all types of unnecessary drama and plot devices sure to tear you to pieces and sometimes you're just like...but why? Dee doesn't do that to me. Which is why I can read her angsty books, even though I'm not a fan of relationship drama. I'm also really glad this book was longer than the last couple in this series; with two couples here, we needed length. Hopefully the next book is the same.
So let's start with Lane and Macklin. I like how they adore each other, but know they aren't *in love* and don't plan to be. Their relationship is special, and I really hope they still have something when all of this is said and done.
Then there's Lane. He's adorable with his love of reptiles, and his unapologetic views on primal play and CNC. Those are kinks I don't really love that much, especially CNC, but he is sooo into it that I can overlook it. He found a really good play partner in Ty. They line up so well, kink wise. And their love of reptiles and the outdoors. Now, his lying right to Ty's face about knowing each other is definitely going to come back to bite him in the ass in the next book and I'm scared for him. But I don't think Dee will do us dirty with them. I can't wait to see their relationship deepen.
Which brings us to Macklin and Walker. God, my heart hurt for them. When Macklin asks Lane if he knows what it's like to hate the love of your life? Gutted. Those first words that Walker said to Macklin on the beach? So freaking gutted. I couldn't believe the shot he took at our baby Macklin. But I think they're making their way back to each other, and they've set good parameters for the time being. I am really looking forward to them getting their HEA.
So let's start with Lane and Macklin. I like how they adore each other, but know they aren't *in love* and don't plan to be. Their relationship is special, and I really hope they still have something when all of this is said and done.
Then there's Lane. He's adorable with his love of reptiles, and his unapologetic views on primal play and CNC. Those are kinks I don't really love that much, especially CNC, but he is sooo into it that I can overlook it. He found a really good play partner in Ty. They line up so well, kink wise. And their love of reptiles and the outdoors. Now, his lying right to Ty's face about knowing each other is definitely going to come back to bite him in the ass in the next book and I'm scared for him. But I don't think Dee will do us dirty with them. I can't wait to see their relationship deepen.
Which brings us to Macklin and Walker. God, my heart hurt for them. When Macklin asks Lane if he knows what it's like to hate the love of your life? Gutted. Those first words that Walker said to Macklin on the beach? So freaking gutted. I couldn't believe the shot he took at our baby Macklin. But I think they're making their way back to each other, and they've set good parameters for the time being. I am really looking forward to them getting their HEA.
January 25, 2023
”Three boys of prey, four apex predators. It’s gonna be fun.”
First & most importantly, I need to put on blast the fact we’ve got REAL LIFE TENTACLE FANTASY EXECUTION. I REPEAT - IRL. TENTACLES. WALKER IS THE KING. Forget monster smut. This guy brings it to life because he is just the best toy maker there ever was. Like yeah, we knew that… but STILL. 🤌🏽
YESSSSS Cara Dee did it again!!! Book 11 in The Game series took on the first 1/2 of the saga that is Walker/Macklin, told MOSTLY in the POV of Mack & his BF (Corey’s cousin) Lane. And… yeah. I was obsessed with EVERYONE.
First and foremost, this is the book that finally gives us the long awaited story behind Walker & Macklin. They’re married. They’re separated. They’re heartbroken. This has been the theme in every book thus far, viewed by the other MCs. Neither of them has moved on after 4 years.
Mack has Lane now & they’re open. Lane supports / pushes Macklin to mend things with Walker. He doesn’t like seeing his bf essentially coming apart at the seams (which we’ve seen happening in the background of each book) due to the unresolved emotions between him and his husband. Anytime Lane tries to bring it up though Walker is thrust right into heartbreak like it happened 10 minutes ago not 4 years ago. For example…
“Do you know what it’s like to hate the love of your life?”
Macklin in pain = Lane in pain. They are best friends above all else. Even when Walker is brought up & the idea of repair is entertained, Mack makes it clear he will not be ending anything his BF, that Lane is staying. The feeling is mutual. I didn't expect to love Lane, or the LaneMack ship, as much as I did, but they ended up being my favorite out of all this. And that’s why. Ride or die, straight up. I could fish about them forever.
Anyways…. QUICK TROPES included:
✅ Second Chance
✅ Polyamory
✅ Primal🤌🏽Play👏🏽
✅ Age Gap
✅ Found Fam
✅ BDSM (CHECK CW!!)
✅ Disability+Mental Health Rep (ADHD, Anxiety +)
✅ Ex GFs Dad 🫠
✅ Tab00 Mentions(not on pg but dear gods pls gimme more DeanWalker)
I will dying counting down the seconds for the continuation of the LaneMackWalkerTy Saga, Prowl to be released.
Lane & Walker. Seriously. Amazing.
FRTC
January 26, 2023
“My beautiful boy.”
“I may not know Walker like Reese and Lucas do, but I’d like to think I know you quite well. And darkness is not your friend, sweetheart.”
“We’re in this together, my beautiful boy.”
“Three boys of prey, four apex predators. It’s gonna be fun.”
“We’re going to make it, Macklin. Tonight was just the beginning.”
Apex Predator was amazingggggggg!
We pick up where we left off with Macklin at the end of Senseless!
Throughout this book we follow Macklin McKenna & Lane Sawyer (his boyfriend & Corey’s cousin) while they go on a trip to Florida with Kit, Colt, Lucas, River, Reese, Shay & the newest member of Mclean House, Ty.
Lane & Ty have a history and Lane is surprised to find out that the Ty they are meeting in Florida is the same one from his past.
All while this is going on Macklin finds out that his ex (& current husband), Walker is moving back to DC, this causes him to freak out and shut down. That’s when the sadists on the trip invite Walker to come down so him and Macklin can finally work things out.
Throughout this story we see the beginning of Macklin & Walker’s relationship, we see them in love and falling apart. The trip to Florida opens up tons of possibilities for everyone in the future and I can’t wait to see what comes next in ‘Prowl’ that is coming in March!
Check out my bookstagram 💜
🖤Primal Play
🖤MMMM
🖤D/s
🖤Second Chances
🖤Hurt/Comfort
🖤Vacation Romance
🖤STEAMY
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
“I may not know Walker like Reese and Lucas do, but I’d like to think I know you quite well. And darkness is not your friend, sweetheart.”
“We’re in this together, my beautiful boy.”
“Three boys of prey, four apex predators. It’s gonna be fun.”
“We’re going to make it, Macklin. Tonight was just the beginning.”
Apex Predator was amazingggggggg!
We pick up where we left off with Macklin at the end of Senseless!
Throughout this book we follow Macklin McKenna & Lane Sawyer (his boyfriend & Corey’s cousin) while they go on a trip to Florida with Kit, Colt, Lucas, River, Reese, Shay & the newest member of Mclean House, Ty.
Lane & Ty have a history and Lane is surprised to find out that the Ty they are meeting in Florida is the same one from his past.
All while this is going on Macklin finds out that his ex (& current husband), Walker is moving back to DC, this causes him to freak out and shut down. That’s when the sadists on the trip invite Walker to come down so him and Macklin can finally work things out.
Throughout this story we see the beginning of Macklin & Walker’s relationship, we see them in love and falling apart. The trip to Florida opens up tons of possibilities for everyone in the future and I can’t wait to see what comes next in ‘Prowl’ that is coming in March!
Check out my bookstagram 💜
🖤Primal Play
🖤MMMM
🖤D/s
🖤Second Chances
🖤Hurt/Comfort
🖤Vacation Romance
🖤STEAMY
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2023
4.5 Stars rounded up
Apex Predator, more than most of the books I've read in this series has a lot of story development before you get to the heat... in the complicated world of the Game Series, Macklin's story has always been one that gets teased... and it can't be simple...
This book is the first of two in a subseries of The Game that focuses on four characters - Macklin, Lane, Ty and Walker, with most of it coming from Macklin and Walker's POV. The primal play theme continues in this book so once you get to the heat, the story is off the charts for CNC and primal fighting, but there are still some more tender and emotional scenes as well...
The poly vs monogamy dynamic is also a strong theme and it's interesting to watch Walker's understanding of how different dynamics work grow as he and Macklin form their own boundaries...
The cliffhanger, if you can call it that, is Ty and Lane's dynamic, which we see a strong glimpse of before really digging into Macklin and Walker's drama. I suppose this could be read standalone if you are just searching for a primal play or CNC story, but it's best read as part of the whole series.
Apex Predator, more than most of the books I've read in this series has a lot of story development before you get to the heat... in the complicated world of the Game Series, Macklin's story has always been one that gets teased... and it can't be simple...
This book is the first of two in a subseries of The Game that focuses on four characters - Macklin, Lane, Ty and Walker, with most of it coming from Macklin and Walker's POV. The primal play theme continues in this book so once you get to the heat, the story is off the charts for CNC and primal fighting, but there are still some more tender and emotional scenes as well...
The poly vs monogamy dynamic is also a strong theme and it's interesting to watch Walker's understanding of how different dynamics work grow as he and Macklin form their own boundaries...
The cliffhanger, if you can call it that, is Ty and Lane's dynamic, which we see a strong glimpse of before really digging into Macklin and Walker's drama. I suppose this could be read standalone if you are just searching for a primal play or CNC story, but it's best read as part of the whole series.
January 26, 2023
We've been looking forward to the Florida vacation since the previous book in the series. This book is told from Macklin and Lane's point of view, but it features many of the other MCs we've seen in other books in the series. Macklin and Lane are boyfriends. Both are submissive with Doms, but Macklin is a switch who tends to dominate Lane when they are together. Macklin, a restaurant owner who has appeared as a single in other books, is also married to Walker, but they have been estranged for four years. They are still both in love with each other and Walker finally decides to move back to DC to be closer to Macklin again. He gets invited at the last minute to the Florida vacation.
Ty is the host of the group in Florida. He splits his time between Florida and DC. He and Lane hit it off immediately, with many shared interests and compatibility. He's planning to join the Mclean House kinkster community. This story has lots of information on reptiles, Florida native and invasive species, and also wild primal play scenes and group play. This is Pt 1 of this story with more to come in the next book. This hot, hot story has second chance love, new love, and established love.
Ty is the host of the group in Florida. He splits his time between Florida and DC. He and Lane hit it off immediately, with many shared interests and compatibility. He's planning to join the Mclean House kinkster community. This story has lots of information on reptiles, Florida native and invasive species, and also wild primal play scenes and group play. This is Pt 1 of this story with more to come in the next book. This hot, hot story has second chance love, new love, and established love.
January 20, 2023
Wow. This book blew me away. Cara really stepped it up with the emotions and angst in Apex Predator and I was HERE FOR IT!
I SHIP MACKLIN AND WALKER MORE THAN MY OWN MARRIAGE THAT IS HOW MUCH I LOVE THESE TWO!!! I am beyond obsessed with their second chance romance. The amount of love they have for each other is astounding and I can't wait to see them reach their solid HEA. I also was LIVING for their possessiveness of each other.
All the concerns I had about how things would play out (with all my favorite couples - not just the ones this book centered around) were addressed and I am here to tell you i am 100% satisfied about how things are playing out.
This book had Cara's typical humor and I lost track of how many times I laughed out loud. The side characters used in this book were some of my absolute favorites and I will never complain about having them around.
NOW WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO WHILE I WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE?!
I SHIP MACKLIN AND WALKER MORE THAN MY OWN MARRIAGE THAT IS HOW MUCH I LOVE THESE TWO!!! I am beyond obsessed with their second chance romance. The amount of love they have for each other is astounding and I can't wait to see them reach their solid HEA. I also was LIVING for their possessiveness of each other.
All the concerns I had about how things would play out (with all my favorite couples - not just the ones this book centered around) were addressed and I am here to tell you i am 100% satisfied about how things are playing out.
This book had Cara's typical humor and I lost track of how many times I laughed out loud. The side characters used in this book were some of my absolute favorites and I will never complain about having them around.
NOW WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO WHILE I WAIT FOR THE NEXT ONE?!
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