Grayson Edwards is one sexy bastard. From the moment we locked eyes, I wanted him. He’s funny, charismatic, and the essence of swoony.
What was supposed to be one night of passion, turned into so much more. I never expected to fall in love with him, or for him to love me back.
When he got down on one knee and proposed, asking me to spend the rest of my days by his side, it was a surreal moment. He was my hopes and dreams all rolled into one. A bright future I never thought I’d have.
But life has a way of kicking you in the teeth sometimes, and I was in no way prepared for what was to follow.
I never would’ve guessed we shared a common link from my past.
A past that still haunts me to this day. One so horrific, I had no choice but to walk away from the person I loved more than life itself.
My soulmate.
Two and a half years on and those feelings haven’t changed. He still owns my heart. I miss him with every fiber of my being.
But how can I give my life to a man … bear his children … when he has the blood of the devil running through his veins?
**OVERALL WINNER OF THE 2018 RWA RUBY AWARD FOR ROMANTIC BOOK OF THE YEAR** Jodi is a wife and mother, born in Sydney, Australia. She recently moved to property in the Hunter Valley with her family for a tree change. Under the name of J. L. Perry, five of her books have been #1 Bestsellers; including BASTARD, JAX, HOOKER, NINETEEN LETTERS and THE BOSS. Foreign rights to some of her books have been sold to Germany, Hungary, Czech and France where BASTARD became a top #20 bestseller. Some of her other titles include, FINDING HIM, FINDING FOREVER, FINDING US, FINDING FORGIVENESS, THE THIEF, ONLY ONE NIGHT, MR. BLACK, MR. EDWARDS and THE STRANGER.
NINETEEN LETTERS was debuted under the name of Jodi Perry through publishing giants, Hachette where it won the RWA Ruby Award for 2018 Romance Book of the Year. She also secured a publishing deal in the UK, with Sphere, an imprint company of Little Brown.
J. L.'s love of romance and happy endings makes a perfect combination when it comes to writing her heartfelt stories. Her other loves are travelling, shopping, shoes and wine.
J. L. Perry would love to hear from you. She can be contacted here:
I made the mistake of reading this backwards. In my attempt to find if it was a safe read or not, I went back to start from the beginning and lost interest when we learn that Hero was not celibate in the 2 year separation, but heroine was. Apparently he loved her SOOOO MUCH that he couldn't keep it in his pants and wanted to "forget" her. Yeah, true love my hinny!
He in fact went back to his whore ways. In the beginning we are told he has FB's and that he likes to have threesome and even foursomes. Lovely. NOT!
Also, the back & forth between present & past was annoying but I did like heroine, Granny and the ending - kinda.
I was really hoping to love this book but while I enjoyed it I just didn’t love it. I feel like the Prologue should have been the chapter from when Carla was a little girl (which was heartbreaking). Then move to when Carla and Grayson met and started their relationship.
But instead we get a few chapters from present day before moving to when Carla was little and then move to their past and then back to the present. I guess I was just too anxious to get to the reasons for the split.
I also felt the climax of the story was a bit lackluster. For me there was just too much past storytelling and not enough present. I also hate it when there is a break and the woman is celibate the entire time and the guy goes back to sleeping with half the town. If he loved her that much, he wouldn’t even think about doing anything with someone else.
I was super excited to start this book, because it had been a long time since the author wrote anything new. She did not disappoint at all! I really adored this book a lot. It was beautiful, emotional, romantic, heartfelt and hot. I always go in blind with JL Perry her books and I have never regretted it, just like with this novel. I loved how the story developed and I loved finding everything out.
I fell in love with Grayson and Carla. Carla is such a strong woman. Her past is horrible. Really, very horrible actually. But present day, Carla is a kind, loyal, loving, hardworking and strong woman. She likes her life and her friends. Her life does get turned upside down, but in a good way, when she meets Grayson. Carla definitely feels attracted to Grayson, but tries to keep him at a distance but he doesn’t give up easily.
Grayson, wow.. He makes my heart melt just by thinking of him. He’s so sweet and patient with Carla, just what she needs. His love for her is strong and powerful. Grayson is also rich, funny, loyal, caring, strong, smart and kindhearted. He loves his family and friends, and he would do anything for them. His dad told Grayson, when he was a little boy, how he felt about his mom and what love is. When Grayson meets Carla, he feels all what his dad said. He feels real love for the first time. Carla is special to him and he would anything for her. Grayson loves spending time with her and falls harder and harder in love with her, even though Carla doesn’t make it easy.
Grayson and Carla are a beautiful couple. Their love story isn’t an easy one. Carla has her demons and insecurities. And then there is of course that one time that Carla broke Grayson’s heart and disappeared from his life without a trace. But Grayson never stopped loving Carla. His love for Carla is strong and solid. This novel is kind of a second chance love story, but we also get to read how they met and fell in love. Their love is truly beautiful and you can’t help but root for Grayson and Carla as a couple.
The secondary characters were also great. If you have read Bossy Bastard, you already know Ashton and Emma. It was great to read a little more about them. Both of them are awesome friends. Reece is an awesome friend of Carla. She wouldn’t have been the person she’s now without him. He’s so kind and strong. I hope that he gets his own book one day (soon)!
This is Carla and Graysons story and after just reading Bossy Bastard, I couldn't wait to dive in and read their story and this did not disappoint, I loved it. I hadn't read anything by this author before I read Emma and Ashtons story but after these two books, I will be adding her back list to the TBR.
Carla's backstory broke my heart, like literally broke it and when you find out the reason why she walked away from Grayson 😭.
This is a second chance romance and we all know these don't happen fast. I wouldn't exactly say it was slow burn but it did have me sitting on the edge of my seat wondering will they, won't they. I absolutely loved this.
This book was more than 2 years in the making, and it was worth every second of the wait. We had seen Carla and Grayson in a small capacity in Bossy Bastard. I knew this book was going to be a heartbreaking book, but the impact this story has was beyond anything I'd expected. I was truly heartbroken, and my emotions were all over the place whilst reading this book.
Carla's story was one that was disturbing from the off and one that wasn't an easy read. But when she meets Grayson, things change. And for the first time, they really see their soul mates. Their lives were turned upside down by events and people. I didn't see the situation coming, and when it did, I was knocked six. Both of them as characters are brilliant. They are opposites but for perfectly.
Now I can't say anymore about what happens. Just know that in amongst the heartbreak and chaos is one hell of a love story. Just know it's brilliant, worth the wait, and a total recommendation from me. It's a book that I feel needs to be read and enjoyed first hand. And I really hope one day, we'll get Reese's story.
I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars because believe me when I say, this book deserves allll the stars!! I went into this book blind, I didn't even read the blurb. Grayson and Carla have some immediate chemistry, and it's there from the first time they meet and no matter how much Carla tries to fight it the connection between them just gets stronger as time goes on. Part of the reason Carla is fighting Grayson is because she doesn't feel worthy and that all stems from her hellish upbringing. Grayson is able to get Carla to open up some to him about how she grew up, and it just breaks his heart. Thankfully she meets Reece when she's a kid and he ends up taking her under his wing and helping her in all the ways that count and he becomes the "parent" that she not only needs but has longed for. Carla is surprised by Grayson at every turn since she thinks he's gonna leave her like everyone else has, except for Reece of course, so when he doesn't she starts to open up to him more and more, and even goes and meets his family who accept her with open arms. There is a shocking twist that comes and tears them apart, breaking Grayson's heart in the process. Carla is pretty heartbroken herself but she feels the need to protect those she cares about but in the end everything is revealed and Carla is surprised again when Grayson stands by her, but is it too little to late for them to get back what they had, is there just too much hurt? You'll just have to read this book to find out, and trust me when I say, you will not regret it!! I will suggest that you read Bossy Bastard first, then read Sexy Bastard to get the full effect. I will be one of the ones going back and reading Bossy Bastard....Lol
What an emotional, heartfelt journey! Carla and Grayson will steal your heart.
Grayson wow. He’s so witty, funny, kind, caring, and loves so, so hard! He has the biggest heart and he’s a dream come true for Carla. I love his resilience and how he wiggles his way into Carla’s heart, slowly cracking her walls. His wit and charm make you smile throughout this story. He’s just amazing!
Carla, my heart. What a warrior. Her past made my heart ache so much, her strength is inspiring.
And my goodness, Reece! He had my heart bursting. Everybody needs someone like Reece in their life. He is such a beacon of hope and light throughout the entire story and every interaction with him made my heart smile.
I love the writing and I love the way this story is broken up into two parts. J.L. Perry’s storytelling makes everything so vivid that I felt everything these two were going through.
This story is filled with so much emotion. Through the heartache and pain, there’s sass, wit, laughs, hope, and love. It’s a beautiful, heartfelt journey.
The next instalment of J.L Perry’s Cocky World books and what a cracker! Grayson and Carla get their story but it doesn’t come easy. We hear about Carla’s disgusting upbringing, though we are touched by characters like Reece who showed Carla that she’s worthy of love and protection. While Carla massively struggles with worthiness, especially around Grayson, this can be a bit of a cat and mouse story where you want to give Carla a shake up. But Grayson is patient, kind and committed to his love and will show Carla he chooses her above all else.
I absolutely loved this book, maybe more so than Sexy Bastard but what a perfect conclusion to this duet. This book has sass, fire, heartache, suspense, love, laughs and angst and I’d recommend it to anyone!
Carla has endured a past that no one should have to which has made her cautious about the people she allows close to her. When she meets Grayson, he is patient and understanding and breaks through her walls until life throws them a curve ball that turns their lives upside down.
Grayson is dealing with a difficult past of his own and wasn’t looking for love or a relationship until Carla came into his life. He wasn’t prepared for the life they were planning to come crashing down but the one thing he does know is that she is worth fighting for.
Carla and Grayson take us on a journey that is filled with so much emotion and turmoil. The characters and their story draw you in and will have you hoping that they can have the happiness they both deserve after all they have been together both together and apart.
Sexy Bastard ( Cocky Hero Club Series) by JL Perry. It has been quite some time since I have read anything from this author so I was extremely excited for her to be releasing something new. Grayson Edwards is out in a bar when he comes across Carla who he is instantly smitten with. His father told Grayson that when he met his mother he knew she was the one. Grayson a self proclaimed anti relationship card carrying member is now ready to turn in his card. She is the one! Carla has had a extremely rough life that has left her jaded and resistant to any relationship. However when she meets Grayson, her feelings go haywire. I would be remiss if I didn't mention that Grayson and Carla's bestfriends are Ashton and Emma from Bossy Bastard written by this author. After you read this book check it out. Loved it. Ok back to Grayson and Carla's story. This story had me all over the place emotionally. Grayson's life wasn't always the kindest but he made it through with the love and support of Ashton and his family. His granny is a hoot. She was definitely the star of this book. I laughed so hard at her. Just loved her. Carla on the other hand. Her life had me in tears and the things she endured in her childhood have had a profound effect on her now. However Grayson thinks he is up for the task. This is their story to a happy ending. Just read to see what their journey brings. I truly enjoyed this book and hope it isn't that long before the author releases her next book. 4.5 stars for me.
Carla has suffered a lot growing up which has made her skittish, but when Grayson fixes up on her he's convinced she's the one, and that's when the bumpy road to their HEA begins. It was unputdownable. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This is one special book to read. I have read a few books from this world, but hands down this is the best one of them all - even the original that inspired so many stories. Yes, I honestly believe that!! Grayson…. What a fabulous character he is. Even with his past, he has a massive heart that was meant to love Carla. Each time he was in a scene, the way he felt about Carla was basically leaping from the pages. Carla’s own past makes it hard for her to believe his intentions are genuine, and with good reason. When what she went through as a child are revealed I was totally heartbroken and then extremely angry. But, boy if anyone deserved a HEA it is definitely her. Such an amazing book that will stay with me for quite some time. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book
Sexy Bastard is a second chance romance, but a real heartbreaking one. Carla and Grayson got up to the point where he proposed, but the next day, she gave his ring back. Now two years later, they meet again at a wedding, and Grayson still wants answers, but Carla can’t give him what he wants. She can’t tell him they are connected in such a way that will break his heart too. Can they see that they really do belong together and fight for their future? Or will that one factor that separated them two years ago, always be lurking around the corner?
This story is really heartbreaking. When you learn about their childhood, how different they grew up, they both had a difficult time growing up. The way they made the story with a ‘will they or not’ vibe, made it very intriguing.It kept me curious for more. I’m glad they got the HEA they deserve.
Woah holy hotness sexy bastard is on fire I loved the storyline and the characters 100% and grannie man I want a grannie in my life !!! I don't want to spoil it it but plot twist alert I was shocked yet enamoured and couldn't put it down another 5 star read from J l Perry
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I have been patiently waiting on this release & boy did it not disappoint.
The chemistry & passion Grayson & Carla have for each other with the push & pull for love was beautiful to read & kept me page turning to find out what was happening next!
Fall deep into the love story of Carla & Grayson with a lot of heart break.. can they have a happy every after?
Read Bossy bastard first for Ashton’s & Emma’s story which Grayson & Carla are in ❤️
Grayson thought Carla was THE ONE at one point. But she walked away with only a note of "sorry." 2 and a half years later he sees her again and he wants answers, then he can walk away. But what if he can't? What if he still loves her?
Carla knew she'd have to face the man she loves again. After all, her best friend is marrying his best friend. She thought she could get out of the encounter unscathed, but she should have known better. Now what has she done? She's made things worse because she just couldn't resist him, and she can't tell him the reason she walked away 2 1/2 years ago. But is she underestimating his persistence? Underestimating their love?
Whoa I was not expecting Carla's backstory - it's hard to read! Thank God Grayson was determined, thank God they hadn't fallen out of love, because they make a wonderful couple, even before her truth came out.
ARC provided by Give Me Books Promotions for an honest review.
This is Author JL Perry’s second book in the Cocky Heroes World and has come two years after her first where I’d hit it in one sitting and was left looking forward to Carla and Grayson’s book. Well, can I tell you now that the wait was MORE than worth it!!!
Again I had to hit this book in one sitting and I absolutely loved SEXY BASTARD! Even as my heart was broken for both Carla and Grayson, this has to be up there as one of my favourite books among the plethora of author talent who have taken part in this wide ranging and imaginative Cocky Hero World.
Grayson Edwards in everything that unconditional love is about and I’d want to marry that man just to be related to his GRANNY! As a secondary character, she won my admiration and I want to be just like her when I grow up!!!
I can only say how much I admired Carla Just-Carla’s strength and her love for those she wanted to protect. To say any more than that my heart dropped when both her and I should’ve been celebrating a special moment, left me fearful that I’d give any insight away, and seriously, I don’t want to be doing that! I was thankful for Reece who was in her corner from the moment they met – now he was also a true hero and I’d love to hear more from him.
SEXY BASTARD gave me all the feels, from horror and heartbreak, through some laughter and straight to love. I absolutely recommend it to all who have loved the Cocky Hero World and who have read BOSSY BASTARD. Not a necessary read, but does contain the original cocky hero characters of Chance, Aubrey and Pixy the goat, and then introduced us to Carla and Grayson. Also absolutely amazing reading!!!
I absolutely loved the first book, Bossy Bastard, so was extremely pleased when this long-awaited story was released. It was everything I thought it would be and more. I was instantly hooked by the story and continued to be the whole way through.
Carla and Grayson were introduced in Bossy Bastard but in this story, the depth of understanding of both characters was so great I almost felt like I knew them for real. Their story made them come alive; while there were plenty of emotions to wade through—and my heart definitely did crack open a few times, an abundance of terrific humor was also paramount.
I truly liked both characters and as their stories were revealed, especially Carla’s, my admiration for her climbed even higher. But 🤐 I am not giving away any more as this story is worth reading from the beginning without any spoilers. I would like to add one wish though—it would be awesome if Reece, another terrific character, had his story told too. 😊
I have been anticipating Grayson and Carla’s story since I read Bossy Bastard. I knew this was going to be a story that would pull at my heart.
The instant connection between these two characters grabs your attention from the start. Grayson and Carla could not be more different. Their lives and upbring were also so very different. But if ever there were two souls fated it was Grayson and Carla.
Grayson was all about the bachelor life. Grayson's life wasn't always the kindest but he made it through with the love and support of his best friend Ashton and his family. Never looking to settle down. But he does know once he meets that one it will be an instant feeling like his dad when he fell for his mom.
Carla has not had an easy life; the things she endured in her childhood have had a profound effect on her now. Her upbring has left her jaded and resistant to any relationship. However when she meets Grayson, her feelings go haywire.
The star of this book was Grayson’s grandmother. She was a delight and stole the show whenever she was on page. I laughed so hard at her. Just loved her.
This story had lots of emotions. It was not an easy journey to the HEA for these 2 and the story is told in two parts. with part one in flashback and part two the present. I am not a fan of this type of storytelling. I would much rather have the author tell us the past difficulties versus showing us. I do love these characters I just wasn’t in love with how their story unfolded.
I also think this story needed some content warnings. CW- Child neglect, parental abuse, loss of parent, murder
"This is one special book to read. I have read a few books from this world, but hands down this is the best one of them all - even the original that inspired so many stories. Yes, I honestly believe that!! Grayson…. What a fabulous character he is. Even with his past, he has a massive heart that was meant to love Carla. Each time he was in a scene, the way he felt about Carla was basically leaping from the pages. Carla’s own past makes it hard for her to believe his intentions are genuine, and with good reason. When what she went through as a child are revealed I was totally heartbroken and then extremely angry. But, boy if anyone deserved a HEA it is definitely her. Such an amazing book that will stay with me for quite some time. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book" ~Sharon
"Grayson and Carla's story was worth the wait. The chemistry between these two is undeniable. Together they are explosive inside and out of the bedroom. Carla is such a multifaceted character and her past has made her reticent of opening her heart and accepting love. Grayson hasn't had a charmed life either and his need to protect is strong with Carla. I loved how he knew he found his soulmate at first glanc. This is a hard won but well deserved HEA. The fight is easier when done together. Swoony, fun banter and all the spice. Loved this. " ~Cindy
I absolutely loved the first book, Bossy Bastard, so was extremely pleased when this long awaited story was released. It was everything I thought it would be and more. I was instantly hooked by the story and continued to be the whole way through.
Carla and Grayson were introduced in Bossy Bastard but in this story the depth of understanding of both characters was so great I almost felt like I knew them for real. Their story made them come alive; while there were plenty of emotions to wade through—and my heart definitely did crack open a few times, an abundance of terrific humour was also paramount.
I truly liked both characters and as their stories were revealed, especially Carla’s, my admiration for her climbed even higher. But 🤐 I am not giving away any more as this story is worth reading from the beginning without any spoilers. I would like to add one wish though—it would be awesome if Reece, another terrific character, had his story told too. 😊
Grayson Edwards, was born on this rich side of town, and always had everything he's always wanted. Except his dad, who died when he was young to cancer. He's always had a whole in his heart since his dad died years ago. Grayson knows right away Carla is the one for him. But, how can he show her that?
Carla, Just Carla, has had a terrible childhood. Her teenage years / adult yrs have been better since she was kicked out of her house by her horrible mother. She had a friend, Reece who is about 10-12 yrs older than her who was always looking out for her ever since they met, when she was 10 yrs old.
Carla met Grayson one night out at a club with her friend Emma, who is interested in Grayson's best friend Ashton, who is treating Emma like poo. Carla has always had one and done one night stands with guys, she never had a relationship - boyfriend with anyone. Carla needs to open her heart and mind to letting people in. She let Reece in when she was younger to help her. She needs Grayson's love now that she's older.
I did receive a FREE ARC Copy of this book. I am freely leaving an honest review.
OH MY EVER LOVIN' EMOTIONAL HELL BATMAN! This story was just phenomenal in the telling, and my heart will never be the same. Carla struggles with seeing herself worthy in anyone's eyes, and with what she went through growing up, it's absolutely understandable as I live it as well. Grayson is the man who wants her, and does everything in his power to show her how worthy she is, and I LOVED him so much. They're perfect for each other so they're going to spend the rest of their lives together until things are revealed, and she breaks both of their hearts. Obviously this is a second chance at love story but it will take you through a hellish emotional journey so you've been warned. I really want to keep talking about what I experienced, but everyone needs to just experience it for themselves by going in blindly so I'll keep this review short & say just hit those one click buttons! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
It has been a while since I last read a book from Ms. JL Perry. This book never stops to amaze me. It is very emotional, funny, and healing too.
There is a chapter that I escape reading as it triggers past events for me. Maybe one day I can continue to read that chapter. This book has the power to heal a wound so deeply.
Love is so powerful and even at times cannot stand the feeling so strong between Carla and Grayson. I loved when they bantered between each other. It is fun to read. It has that moment when you pose and gasp as the story is so amazing. This book is beyond hotness overload but the same time one of the best books I read this month.
You might need a tissue to prepare just in case. I almost cried. Great job Ms. JL Perry this book is one of a kind and highly recommend it to everybody who loves rollercoasters and ends up with a smooth ride after all.
I must admit that this story brought with it quite a few tears. It has been a while since I read anything from the author, and it didn't disappoint.
Grayson is such a persistent sexy man that's for sure. He knew what he wanted and he wasn't going to stop till he got it.
Carla didn't want a relationship. After everything she had gone through she only trusted one other, Reece. However, as Grayson had other ideas she soon couldn't resist his charms.
But what happens when Carla's past comes back to haunt her? She runs, she runs to save the lives of others. But running also leaves her broken, lonely and lost. She can never escape the nightmare until it is confronted. Even then will it be fixed, will she be able to live a life of love and happiness?
I can't wait to read more from this series. I really hope we get a story from Reece. Maybe him and Michelle can get together!
Wowzers this book! I love JL Perry! When this author writes, she creates true magic! Sexy Bastard is a truly wonderful tale of hard ship and being a warrior and changing what needs changing and fighting for what matters most. When I started this book I knew this one was a heart ripper and I was right! Carla has battled her whole life to be better than what she was brought up in. To be strong and not let her past shape her future. Grayson has always been blessed. Good upbringing, loving family. All the things money and unconditional love can bring. Together Grayson and Carla are fire and magic. Sexy Bastard is a roller coaster ride of highs and lows and twists and turns that will leave you breathless and wanting more! Do not miss this amazing story! Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book.
J.L Perry’s inclusion in the Cocky World books was a dream come true. Sexy Bastard definitely meets the brief and what a smashing story! Grayson and Carla live their story but don’t believe for one minute, it’s an easy journey. Carla’s upbringing is fraught with despair, but filled with wonderful characters such as Reece who support Carla and display their love and protection for her. Carla and Graysons relationship doesn’t come easy but with patience kindness and commitment, Grayson will demonstrate to Carla that she is who he chooses, far above anything else.
An emotion packed, thoroughly amazing story that J L Perry has delivered beautifully gift wrapped in time for Christmas.
Seeing that Grayson and Carla had a heartbreaking ending in the beginning of the book made me curious...and then their story got started. Neither one had the happiest of childhoods, but they were on opposite ends of the tracks. I loved that Greyson was knocked over when it came to Carla and I loved that he made it his mission to made Carla his. My heart broke for Carla when it came to trying to break down her walls. The passion between the two was hot and you could see the love there, so watching her walk away was painful. I'm happy they were put back into each other's orbit again and that the secrets were out in the open. My only question was how Chance and Aubrey were known to the pair (I have yet to read the original books.).