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Brothers of Shadow and Death #1
Backfire: Sydney's Awakening
The last thing I expected after ten years in foster care, was to get a new stepdad and be reunited with my mother. What kind of man marries someone fresh off the crazy train? As far as CPS was concerned Angus Adair was an upstanding citizen.
Clearly they'd never met his sons
I thought foster care taught me how to deal with dicks. Then along came Devlin Adair. He didn't just have a chip on his shoulder, he took the crown for the king of assholes and wore it proudly. And it wasn't just him I had to deal with. His sidekick Reese came along for the ride.
One man acted like he wanted to kill me and the other... well he wanted something else. But neither of them would get their wish. I'd drop kick them off their thrones and walk away with the crown. There was only one problem...
The strange pull that drew me in. The longer they were around, the stronger it got. I'd felt attraction before and this was something different. Devlin said it was because I belonged to him. That it was fate.
I sat fuck fate.
She can kiss my ass.
Clearly they'd never met his sons
I thought foster care taught me how to deal with dicks. Then along came Devlin Adair. He didn't just have a chip on his shoulder, he took the crown for the king of assholes and wore it proudly. And it wasn't just him I had to deal with. His sidekick Reese came along for the ride.
One man acted like he wanted to kill me and the other... well he wanted something else. But neither of them would get their wish. I'd drop kick them off their thrones and walk away with the crown. There was only one problem...
The strange pull that drew me in. The longer they were around, the stronger it got. I'd felt attraction before and this was something different. Devlin said it was because I belonged to him. That it was fate.
I sat fuck fate.
She can kiss my ass.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2023
90 people are currently reading
339 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
January 15, 2023
Where do I even begin?!? This book is AMAZING!!! I was instantly engulfed in the story and could not put it down. I read it start to finish, with only a few breaks in between.
Sydney was taken into foster care at age 9. But now her mother has “improved” and she is forced back into mother’s care. Mother has managed to re-marry. Stepdad has 4 sons, although in this book you will only meet 3 (Devlin, Wyatt, and Mangus.) There is an instant pull to one, Devlin. But he’s cruel and hates her for reasons Sydney is not aware. However, his best friend Reese can’t seem to take his eyes off of her.
There is a lot to this new life that Sydney has yet to uncover. And we are going to go through it. Enemies to lovers…maybe. But this is a series so we are left with a MAJOR cliffhanger. Just as secrets are being discovered, you’re at the end. I’m pretty sure I yelled at my Kindle.
This book had me on the edge of my seat and constantly guessing. There is magic element in play as well, but unk the extent. Again, we were JUST starting to figure things out.
I highly recommend this book! It is amazing. Read your triggers. Enjoy. Happy Reading Ya’ll! 🖤
Sydney was taken into foster care at age 9. But now her mother has “improved” and she is forced back into mother’s care. Mother has managed to re-marry. Stepdad has 4 sons, although in this book you will only meet 3 (Devlin, Wyatt, and Mangus.) There is an instant pull to one, Devlin. But he’s cruel and hates her for reasons Sydney is not aware. However, his best friend Reese can’t seem to take his eyes off of her.
There is a lot to this new life that Sydney has yet to uncover. And we are going to go through it. Enemies to lovers…maybe. But this is a series so we are left with a MAJOR cliffhanger. Just as secrets are being discovered, you’re at the end. I’m pretty sure I yelled at my Kindle.
This book had me on the edge of my seat and constantly guessing. There is magic element in play as well, but unk the extent. Again, we were JUST starting to figure things out.
I highly recommend this book! It is amazing. Read your triggers. Enjoy. Happy Reading Ya’ll! 🖤
February 2, 2023
This was a book that had me hooked from start to finish. In a way that I haven't been for such a long time!!
When I picked it up, I went in blind with just the rough outline of "pnr/Romance" to guide me. I've yet to see the pnr side so I am ITCHING for the next book to come out ASAP!!!
So, without going into too much... Sydney is our wise talking, stubborn, 17yr old FMC who's just coming out of foster care to go back to live with her mother and now her new stepfather and stepbrothers - they were all a surprise to her and she suspects something is a little off..
She's having dreams of rituals and wierd feelings and conversations that include her oldest stepbrother Devlin and her private teacher Reese... But when awake Devlin acts with pure hate towards her.
Something about her birthmark halts everything. Maybe even saves her lufe, even tho she's now living with a stepbrother that spurs hatred at her..
Yet at the same time.... There's a pull. That fine line between love/hate. Devlin is forcing the hate.... Why??
The sex scene is particularly rough on Sydney, especially with her being a virgin,.. But I'm a bit of a sucker for MM scenes and when Reese climbs in with the pair the spice does get higher. I would just be aware it's not all soft and flowers type...
This is very much a set up for the next book which means I really need the next one to be out soon!!! It's a wicked thing to leave us hanging like this!!!! But it's one I'll be picking up as soon as its out!!
When I picked it up, I went in blind with just the rough outline of "pnr/Romance" to guide me. I've yet to see the pnr side so I am ITCHING for the next book to come out ASAP!!!
So, without going into too much... Sydney is our wise talking, stubborn, 17yr old FMC who's just coming out of foster care to go back to live with her mother and now her new stepfather and stepbrothers - they were all a surprise to her and she suspects something is a little off..
She's having dreams of rituals and wierd feelings and conversations that include her oldest stepbrother Devlin and her private teacher Reese... But when awake Devlin acts with pure hate towards her.
Something about her birthmark halts everything. Maybe even saves her lufe, even tho she's now living with a stepbrother that spurs hatred at her..
Yet at the same time.... There's a pull. That fine line between love/hate. Devlin is forcing the hate.... Why??
The sex scene is particularly rough on Sydney, especially with her being a virgin,.. But I'm a bit of a sucker for MM scenes and when Reese climbs in with the pair the spice does get higher. I would just be aware it's not all soft and flowers type...
This is very much a set up for the next book which means I really need the next one to be out soon!!! It's a wicked thing to leave us hanging like this!!!! But it's one I'll be picking up as soon as its out!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2025
4.5/5
I don't know how I really feel about this book. If you want true enemies to lovers then this is the book for you. There is no lovey moments between these characters, but there is one moment of sort of softness but it get snuffed out rather quickly. I think the only problem I had with this book is all the secrets. I realize it is part of a series, but Sydney is determined to find answers and then seems to some what forget that goal. The book is less than 300 pages and ends on a bomb shell. There is spice and tension. The lore of this universe, I discovered in the co-write Anywhere by Brooklyn Cross. I absolutely love the concept. The ending teases more tension between characters and idk how that will go down because our boy Devlin is very headstrong on his choices apparently. That library kiss scene with Reese has to be my favorite moment in the book.
I don't know how I really feel about this book. If you want true enemies to lovers then this is the book for you. There is no lovey moments between these characters, but there is one moment of sort of softness but it get snuffed out rather quickly. I think the only problem I had with this book is all the secrets. I realize it is part of a series, but Sydney is determined to find answers and then seems to some what forget that goal. The book is less than 300 pages and ends on a bomb shell. There is spice and tension. The lore of this universe, I discovered in the co-write Anywhere by Brooklyn Cross. I absolutely love the concept. The ending teases more tension between characters and idk how that will go down because our boy Devlin is very headstrong on his choices apparently. That library kiss scene with Reese has to be my favorite moment in the book.
January 16, 2023
Omg this book!! Love love loved it!!! T.L. Did a phenomenal job!! This book will keep you sucked in and at the end, you’ll be wanting more. She did an amazing job with the MMC’s and made a strong, funny, independent FMC. I couldn’t get enough and wanted more! The plot was awesome, it’s dark, the scenes were on point and just EVERYTHING!
⚠️check TW🔞🔥
⚠️check TW🔞🔥
February 7, 2023
Omg...this book was so good! The suspense was amazing, and I can only assume it will get better in book two!
Sydney grew up in foster care due to her mother's mental illness until her social worker tells her that her mother is able to take care of her now with a new husband. Syd is reluctant since her mother was still continuing with her delusions last week.
When she arrives at her new home, she's shocked. It wasn't what she was expecting, and she also wasn't expecting to have a few step brothers now. She immediately doesn't like Devlin. He acts like he despises her without knowing her. Then there are the twins who she thinks are more manageable.
She finds out she will be homeschooled by a guy named Reese. Just like all the guys she has encountered here, he was HOT! Devlin makes sure to follow Syd around even when she is in class. He swears she is his and she plans to fight him every step of the way!
Not long after living there she starts having these dreams that are so realistic but couldn't be from what she hears in these dreams. She will soon find out the secrets the guys are keeping from her, including her step father!
Sydney grew up in foster care due to her mother's mental illness until her social worker tells her that her mother is able to take care of her now with a new husband. Syd is reluctant since her mother was still continuing with her delusions last week.
When she arrives at her new home, she's shocked. It wasn't what she was expecting, and she also wasn't expecting to have a few step brothers now. She immediately doesn't like Devlin. He acts like he despises her without knowing her. Then there are the twins who she thinks are more manageable.
She finds out she will be homeschooled by a guy named Reese. Just like all the guys she has encountered here, he was HOT! Devlin makes sure to follow Syd around even when she is in class. He swears she is his and she plans to fight him every step of the way!
Not long after living there she starts having these dreams that are so realistic but couldn't be from what she hears in these dreams. She will soon find out the secrets the guys are keeping from her, including her step father!
January 19, 2023
WOW! The amount of anger oozing out of the pages of this book had me grinding my teeth like crazy and gripping my kindle so damn tight I thought I heard it crack. But what a engrossing and fantastic way to start a new dark, twisted and utterly depraved new series. Hang on because this one is definitely going to twist your mind!
Sydney is such a fierce, witty and sassy young woman and she keeps everyone on their toes with anticipation of what she would get up to next. Her inner dialogue and her hilarious antics had me laughing continually even over some of the dark parts of her story. I just loved her and her feisty spirit. But there is a hell of a lot of secrets that are being kept from her and I can’t wait until she finds out exactly what is going on.
Devlin had my blood boiling, my heart racing, and my damn panties melting. This man has so much anger and pain pent up inside of him that I thought for sure he was going to kill Sydney at any given moment. But then Sydney, the feisty little brat she is, knew just how to make Devlin mad and soft at the same time. Devlin and his family are keeping all kinds of secrets from Sydney, and I am anxious to know what they are.
The connection and chemistry between Devlin, Reese and Sydney was undeniably explosive. At times the sexual tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife. And the cruel and wicked games that Devlin and Reese played on Sydney had me wanting to reach in a punch the two of them. They were cruel, violent, and heartless and were dead set on destroying everything innocent about her.
There is still so much to uncover and secrets that need to be revealed, plus that intense and explosive cliffhanger left us all on the edges of our seats. I can’t wait for the next part of this story but I am also afraid of finding out what extent Devlin will go to in order to continue to punish Sydney further.
I am now waiting on bated breath for more!
Sydney is such a fierce, witty and sassy young woman and she keeps everyone on their toes with anticipation of what she would get up to next. Her inner dialogue and her hilarious antics had me laughing continually even over some of the dark parts of her story. I just loved her and her feisty spirit. But there is a hell of a lot of secrets that are being kept from her and I can’t wait until she finds out exactly what is going on.
Devlin had my blood boiling, my heart racing, and my damn panties melting. This man has so much anger and pain pent up inside of him that I thought for sure he was going to kill Sydney at any given moment. But then Sydney, the feisty little brat she is, knew just how to make Devlin mad and soft at the same time. Devlin and his family are keeping all kinds of secrets from Sydney, and I am anxious to know what they are.
The connection and chemistry between Devlin, Reese and Sydney was undeniably explosive. At times the sexual tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife. And the cruel and wicked games that Devlin and Reese played on Sydney had me wanting to reach in a punch the two of them. They were cruel, violent, and heartless and were dead set on destroying everything innocent about her.
There is still so much to uncover and secrets that need to be revealed, plus that intense and explosive cliffhanger left us all on the edges of our seats. I can’t wait for the next part of this story but I am also afraid of finding out what extent Devlin will go to in order to continue to punish Sydney further.
I am now waiting on bated breath for more!
January 15, 2023
Backfire lit me up
As much as I adore the author she has grown in my esteem. She has put her prose into the mystical. Venture into a future where you are completely ignorant of the true workings of the world. It's not regular people who are running the world. People sit in politics that have no control. Nothing is given without the approval of the actual ruling families. They also happen to be magical. It's a future that is astonishingly familiar with its bullies and foster care. With a twist.
In the world of the men who have become the next family to Sydney there are no choices. Her mother has remarried to someone incredibly powerful. And his sons are very creative. Especially the one named Devlin Adair. The Adair family is one of the most powerful families. It looks like the tradition of the chosen triad, two men and one woman, has chosen Devlin for its leader. With his best friend Reese they will have great power. The intimate relationship they already have will be nurtured by their relationship. They just need their third. The female counterpart that will deliver the final notch into elevating power and status. Sydney has no idea anything like this exists. She has no idea who she is either. It's unfortunate that her father dealt a very hard blow to the Adair family. Treatment is cruel. It is hard to live with men who need her but hate her too. She is no weakling though and she gives as good as she gets.
As the relationship between the three grows she submits to the men who are her future. Unfortunately she has no clue what that future means and nobody is giving away clues.
As much as I adore the author she has grown in my esteem. She has put her prose into the mystical. Venture into a future where you are completely ignorant of the true workings of the world. It's not regular people who are running the world. People sit in politics that have no control. Nothing is given without the approval of the actual ruling families. They also happen to be magical. It's a future that is astonishingly familiar with its bullies and foster care. With a twist.
In the world of the men who have become the next family to Sydney there are no choices. Her mother has remarried to someone incredibly powerful. And his sons are very creative. Especially the one named Devlin Adair. The Adair family is one of the most powerful families. It looks like the tradition of the chosen triad, two men and one woman, has chosen Devlin for its leader. With his best friend Reese they will have great power. The intimate relationship they already have will be nurtured by their relationship. They just need their third. The female counterpart that will deliver the final notch into elevating power and status. Sydney has no idea anything like this exists. She has no idea who she is either. It's unfortunate that her father dealt a very hard blow to the Adair family. Treatment is cruel. It is hard to live with men who need her but hate her too. She is no weakling though and she gives as good as she gets.
As the relationship between the three grows she submits to the men who are her future. Unfortunately she has no clue what that future means and nobody is giving away clues.
January 18, 2023
What a wild ride! This book started off at lightning speed and did not slow down. There was so much going on but in true Tara fashion, I had more questions after I got done reading it. She’s gives you just enough information to make you crave more and yet not enough to keep you guessing. I think the main character, Sydney was just as confused.
Sydney is quite literally dropped off in the lion’s den, she doesn’t trust or like any of them but is a crucial part of their plan. She feels a pull to Devlin and Reese that she can’t ignore even though she tries to ignore it and them for most of the book. Once she realizes they’re not going to leave her alone, she does everything to push their buttons, especially Devlin’s. Her plan backfires because her anger and hatred only fuels him on.
She’s pulled into Devlin and Reese’s game but isn’t sure what to make of it. A new acquaintance drops a few ideas into her head, between that and overhearing something she shouldn’t has her questioning her choices. The whole book is action packed with plenty of spice and mystery to keep you on the edge of your seat the whole time. Plus plenty of laughs, compliments of our feisty, defiant main character. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book! I’m also excited to see what Tara has in store for this year.
If you’ve read Anywhere by Brooklyn Cross, you’ll recognize some of these characters and terms, if you haven’t you should because any questions you have regarding some of the more magical things going on will be answered.
Sydney is quite literally dropped off in the lion’s den, she doesn’t trust or like any of them but is a crucial part of their plan. She feels a pull to Devlin and Reese that she can’t ignore even though she tries to ignore it and them for most of the book. Once she realizes they’re not going to leave her alone, she does everything to push their buttons, especially Devlin’s. Her plan backfires because her anger and hatred only fuels him on.
She’s pulled into Devlin and Reese’s game but isn’t sure what to make of it. A new acquaintance drops a few ideas into her head, between that and overhearing something she shouldn’t has her questioning her choices. The whole book is action packed with plenty of spice and mystery to keep you on the edge of your seat the whole time. Plus plenty of laughs, compliments of our feisty, defiant main character. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book! I’m also excited to see what Tara has in store for this year.
If you’ve read Anywhere by Brooklyn Cross, you’ll recognize some of these characters and terms, if you haven’t you should because any questions you have regarding some of the more magical things going on will be answered.
January 6, 2023
Book 1 in the brand new shared world of Brothers Of Shadow and Death and way to kick it off!!!
The main girl Sydney has been in foster care for years as her mum has mental health problems and was put into a hospital long term.
Suddenly, her mum's married and Sydney's off to stay with the happy couple.... and his 4 sons (although only 3 are in this book)
But things definitely aren't as they seem!
I like Sydney, she's just a normal teenage girl who could do with a friend or few! She's not had it easy and maybe thinks she's tougher than she is but I like her!
Then we have the Twins - and they are chalk and cheese! One is the quiet, dark and broody type, the other is obsessed with p0rn and himself!
The third son Devlin is the one who's mainly causing problems with Sydney and that guy is a full on j3rk! So far, I'm not a fan. Some things just don't sit right with me 🤷🏻♀️ anyway...
Devlin is an a$$, who has taken it upon himself that he owns Syd. She's adamant he doesn't and never will, but there's this physical pull between the two.....
Then we have Reese. Reese is the cheeky chappy friend of Devlin's and possibly, ok definitely more-than-friend as well as teacher and seems to be the calmer and level headed one, who also has a physical pull with Syd.
It's intriguing, mysterious, mystical and ends on a big cliffhanger - and I need more!
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review. 3.5/4
The main girl Sydney has been in foster care for years as her mum has mental health problems and was put into a hospital long term.
Suddenly, her mum's married and Sydney's off to stay with the happy couple.... and his 4 sons (although only 3 are in this book)
But things definitely aren't as they seem!
I like Sydney, she's just a normal teenage girl who could do with a friend or few! She's not had it easy and maybe thinks she's tougher than she is but I like her!
Then we have the Twins - and they are chalk and cheese! One is the quiet, dark and broody type, the other is obsessed with p0rn and himself!
The third son Devlin is the one who's mainly causing problems with Sydney and that guy is a full on j3rk! So far, I'm not a fan. Some things just don't sit right with me 🤷🏻♀️ anyway...
Devlin is an a$$, who has taken it upon himself that he owns Syd. She's adamant he doesn't and never will, but there's this physical pull between the two.....
Then we have Reese. Reese is the cheeky chappy friend of Devlin's and possibly, ok definitely more-than-friend as well as teacher and seems to be the calmer and level headed one, who also has a physical pull with Syd.
It's intriguing, mysterious, mystical and ends on a big cliffhanger - and I need more!
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review. 3.5/4
January 15, 2023
This book is amazing!! I love this new paranormal dystopian world that T.L. Hodel has introduced in Backfire...where magical people rule the world in what are called Factions and non magical people called Flitters are blissfully unaware of magic.
Sydney is a flitter (or is she...?). She has been in foster care since she was a young girl due to her mother being mentally unable to care for her. Sydney is no shrinking violet and she can take care of herself. But her mother has remarried and her new stepbrother, Devlin, is almost more than she can handle! He is angry and controlling. And Sydney enjoys pushing his buttons (though she doesn't get far!). Reese is Devlin's best friend and more calm and suave. But Reese is also very jealous and possessive. 😍
I actually loved Sydney! She was spunky, sarcastic, and charming! I loved reading her thoughts and inner dialogue! Devlin was 🥵🥵🥵!! And Reese was 🥰🥰🥰! The 3 of them are forming a magical triad, which is important to the Factions to maintain their power and rule over the world (Sydney is yet unaware of magic in the world, though). This is a mmf book, meaning all three are intimate with each other.
I loved this book!! It ends on a cliffhanger and I cannot wait for book 2!! It captures you from the first page and I was enraptured with the book all the way until the end. This new dystopian world with magic and Factions is incredible! I definitely recommend reading this book and this series!!
Sydney is a flitter (or is she...?). She has been in foster care since she was a young girl due to her mother being mentally unable to care for her. Sydney is no shrinking violet and she can take care of herself. But her mother has remarried and her new stepbrother, Devlin, is almost more than she can handle! He is angry and controlling. And Sydney enjoys pushing his buttons (though she doesn't get far!). Reese is Devlin's best friend and more calm and suave. But Reese is also very jealous and possessive. 😍
I actually loved Sydney! She was spunky, sarcastic, and charming! I loved reading her thoughts and inner dialogue! Devlin was 🥵🥵🥵!! And Reese was 🥰🥰🥰! The 3 of them are forming a magical triad, which is important to the Factions to maintain their power and rule over the world (Sydney is yet unaware of magic in the world, though). This is a mmf book, meaning all three are intimate with each other.
I loved this book!! It ends on a cliffhanger and I cannot wait for book 2!! It captures you from the first page and I was enraptured with the book all the way until the end. This new dystopian world with magic and Factions is incredible! I definitely recommend reading this book and this series!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2023
Ms Tara …we👏🏽need👏🏽to👏🏽have👏🏽a👏🏽talk👏🏽 That cliffhanger??????!!!!!!!!!
This book was Fu€kin phenomenal!!!
You had me captivated from minute 1 the dynamic between all 3 well characters was 🔥
Sydney is a bada$$ FMC who was taking care of her “mentally unwell” mother for as long as she can remember and I put that in quotes cause I have some theories but anyway she turns 8 and she’s taken into the foster system. At almost 18 her mother is deemed fit to care for her along with her mothers new husband.
Well turns out her new stepbrothers aren’t so crazy about having a little sister.
Devlin is the oldest and he absolutely can’t stand Sydney due to some past she has no clue about.
Devlin is the definition of an Alpha
a$$hole there were times where I literally wanted to go into the story and 🔪him myself lmao he lives to punish Sydney
Reese the charming pretty boy is her new in home teacher and he loves Sydney’s feistiness. But he has no problem punishing Sydney when the need arises
What happens when these 2 crazy boys turn out to be your fated mates and they need you as much as you need them?
What happens when secrets start coming out and you don’t know who to trust?
Do yourselves a favor and download this book now cause you don’t want to miss what happens next!!
Plot 5⭐️
Spice 4.8🌶️
Please check your triggers because there is some heaviness
Forced proximity
Dub con
Spanking
non con
MMF
Teacher/student
Stepbrother
Bullying
This book was Fu€kin phenomenal!!!
You had me captivated from minute 1 the dynamic between all 3 well characters was 🔥
Sydney is a bada$$ FMC who was taking care of her “mentally unwell” mother for as long as she can remember and I put that in quotes cause I have some theories but anyway she turns 8 and she’s taken into the foster system. At almost 18 her mother is deemed fit to care for her along with her mothers new husband.
Well turns out her new stepbrothers aren’t so crazy about having a little sister.
Devlin is the oldest and he absolutely can’t stand Sydney due to some past she has no clue about.
Devlin is the definition of an Alpha
a$$hole there were times where I literally wanted to go into the story and 🔪him myself lmao he lives to punish Sydney
Reese the charming pretty boy is her new in home teacher and he loves Sydney’s feistiness. But he has no problem punishing Sydney when the need arises
What happens when these 2 crazy boys turn out to be your fated mates and they need you as much as you need them?
What happens when secrets start coming out and you don’t know who to trust?
Do yourselves a favor and download this book now cause you don’t want to miss what happens next!!
Plot 5⭐️
Spice 4.8🌶️
Please check your triggers because there is some heaviness
Forced proximity
Dub con
Spanking
non con
MMF
Teacher/student
Stepbrother
Bullying
January 9, 2023
OMG, this book was amazing! This book really drew me in even with the building of contuious questions I had but kept me intriged with the story and wanting more.
Sydney was reunited with her mother after being in foster care system for years only to find out she now had stepfather and 3 stepbrothers (Wyatt, Magnus and Devlin). We also meet Devlin's best friend (or something else?) Reese which turns out to be Sydney's teacher who's attracted to her and doesn't deny wanting her. Devlin and Syndey have some of attratction to each too but he hates her. Both Reese and Devlin are possesive alphaholes in their way and Syndey isn't having it! She is a fiesty teenager who doesn't put with their antics and loves to fight back. Sydney thinks she's a regular teenager but is she really? She hears conversations and has experiences that has her questioning a lot of things. It also makes me wonder...what or who is she really? This book ends on big WTF😲 cliffhanger and I can't wait for the next one.
Sydney was reunited with her mother after being in foster care system for years only to find out she now had stepfather and 3 stepbrothers (Wyatt, Magnus and Devlin). We also meet Devlin's best friend (or something else?) Reese which turns out to be Sydney's teacher who's attracted to her and doesn't deny wanting her. Devlin and Syndey have some of attratction to each too but he hates her. Both Reese and Devlin are possesive alphaholes in their way and Syndey isn't having it! She is a fiesty teenager who doesn't put with their antics and loves to fight back. Sydney thinks she's a regular teenager but is she really? She hears conversations and has experiences that has her questioning a lot of things. It also makes me wonder...what or who is she really? This book ends on big WTF😲 cliffhanger and I can't wait for the next one.
February 23, 2023
good read…
I normally don’t like dub-con books, but I read the authors forward and decided to give it a chance. I wasn’t disappointed! Definitely was not a bad read. I really liked the fmc. She was spunky and resilient. She didn’t easily capitulate when she was bullied by her step brothers, which is a common theme in the enemies-to-lovers trope. I didn’t love the male characters. They didn’t have a lot of redeeming qualities, but maybe this could develop later in the series.
The book ended kind of abruptly. It felt really rushed. It left me feeling bereft, but not in the way a good cliffhanger does. The male characters “bullying” is straight up abuse. I didn’t really like the controlling, threatening behavior from the male characters, but maybe this is a theme in dub-con and non-con. All in all this was a pretty good book and I’ll probably read the next book in the series.
I normally don’t like dub-con books, but I read the authors forward and decided to give it a chance. I wasn’t disappointed! Definitely was not a bad read. I really liked the fmc. She was spunky and resilient. She didn’t easily capitulate when she was bullied by her step brothers, which is a common theme in the enemies-to-lovers trope. I didn’t love the male characters. They didn’t have a lot of redeeming qualities, but maybe this could develop later in the series.
The book ended kind of abruptly. It felt really rushed. It left me feeling bereft, but not in the way a good cliffhanger does. The male characters “bullying” is straight up abuse. I didn’t really like the controlling, threatening behavior from the male characters, but maybe this is a theme in dub-con and non-con. All in all this was a pretty good book and I’ll probably read the next book in the series.
January 16, 2023
This book kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end! SO so good!
Throughout the book there's an underlying feel that something is not as it seems, and the mystery keeps building the deeper we go.
I absolutely love Bully/Grumpy/Alphahole MMC's - and Devil delivered all all accounts. And Reese? 😮💨 that man is walking sin. This story was a mix of some of me favorite things, and so much more! The characters surprise you, the story will keep you hooked, and the spice will have you making sure nobody is reading over your shoulder 😏
Easy five stars and I can *not* wait fir the next book in this series! There is an interconnected story from Brooklyn Cross, and I highly recommend reading that as well!
Throughout the book there's an underlying feel that something is not as it seems, and the mystery keeps building the deeper we go.
I absolutely love Bully/Grumpy/Alphahole MMC's - and Devil delivered all all accounts. And Reese? 😮💨 that man is walking sin. This story was a mix of some of me favorite things, and so much more! The characters surprise you, the story will keep you hooked, and the spice will have you making sure nobody is reading over your shoulder 😏
Easy five stars and I can *not* wait fir the next book in this series! There is an interconnected story from Brooklyn Cross, and I highly recommend reading that as well!
January 15, 2023
What a start to a new series!! I was literally hooked from the first page...it was just so good! The suspense was killing me as i read, it kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish! Sydney is the MFC, who is forced to live with her new step family, with four insanely gorgeous guys (we only meet three in book one). This however is no ordinary bully romance, oh no...this is so much more and you can tell that the plot is only just getting going....there is so much more hinted at, i can just tell this series is going to blow me away! And that ending...OMG that cliff hanger ending had me cursing Tara so much, i am in need of the next book asap!! Highly recommend!
January 19, 2023
Mind Blown
First let me start by saying I was crazy excited about Hodel stepping into the PNR with this trilogy and it did not disappoint. From page one, I couldn’t put it down and my emotions were all over the place, what a rollercoaster! As she always does Hodel can make you hate and love a character in the same sentence and the chemistry just pours from the pages. This book was everything I needed to pull me out of a book slump and I can’t wait for book 2. The ending…mind blown, that’s all I’ll say, don’t want to spoil anything. But I will definitely be one clicking the next two books in the series with out hesitation!
First let me start by saying I was crazy excited about Hodel stepping into the PNR with this trilogy and it did not disappoint. From page one, I couldn’t put it down and my emotions were all over the place, what a rollercoaster! As she always does Hodel can make you hate and love a character in the same sentence and the chemistry just pours from the pages. This book was everything I needed to pull me out of a book slump and I can’t wait for book 2. The ending…mind blown, that’s all I’ll say, don’t want to spoil anything. But I will definitely be one clicking the next two books in the series with out hesitation!
January 12, 2023
Backfire was the first book that I have read by T.L. Hodel. I was beyond impressed. Now I am hooked. I need more books from this universe. I don't want to give anything away but holy $hit!! I absolutely loved this book. I devoured it. I loved all of the characters. Develin is delicious! That's all I am saying. Tara, you have struck gold with this one. I cannot wait to see what you come up with next. There is slight PNR (paranormal romance) but not much. Sydney had her moments where she was a little annoying. I understand why she was that way though. She has been through so much in her life that she was done putting up with anyone else's crap. I did not expect the ending! Now like I said, I need MORE!
January 21, 2023
This is the first book in the Brothers of Shadow and Death series. T.L. Did an Amazing job with this story! This book sucked me in and begging for more. Please check Trigger Warnings before reading. The FMC has experienced some things that will make you feel so may emotions. The MMCs are all different and you don't know who you hate, love, or want more of. This story ends with a cliffhanger that will leave you begging for more. I was gripping my kindle throughout this story. I highly recommend this story.
January 6, 2023
I am still trying to find the words. I zoomed through this book so quick! I need the second one. Why is Devlin so awful but you still just want home to hold you?
I am left with so many questions, but reading the book caused my face to heat up continuously. My family kept asking me if something was wrong because I couldn’t focus outside of the words I was reading.
I absolutely loved this book!
I am left with so many questions, but reading the book caused my face to heat up continuously. My family kept asking me if something was wrong because I couldn’t focus outside of the words I was reading.
I absolutely loved this book!
January 15, 2023
Backfire is the first book in the Brothers of Shadow and Death series. It is also the first book by TL Hodel I have read.
This is a PNR, Dystopian, Bully Romance.
When reading this book I would recommend thinking of it as a contemporary dark/bully romance as we won't really see the other elements until future books.
Sydney has been in foster care for years due to her mothers mental health.
She is now being reunited with her mother, Charmaine, who is now better, however her mother has remarried.
Her new stepdad Angus has 4 sons, Devlin, the twins Wyatt & Magnus and Rook (Rook is only mentioned in this book).
For reasons Sydney does not know, Devlin hates her and is really cruel to her. He has a best friend Reese who can't keep his eyes off her and is really flirty. Even with all the things Devlin does to her, she feels an undeniable pull to both him and Reese.
We know Sydney has a lot to discover going forward and after the cliffhanger ending Backfire leaves us on, I'm looking forward to seeing what book 2 brings.
I have just added The Order of Ravens and Wolves to my Goodreads TBR as I now want to read more by this author.
This is a PNR, Dystopian, Bully Romance.
When reading this book I would recommend thinking of it as a contemporary dark/bully romance as we won't really see the other elements until future books.
Sydney has been in foster care for years due to her mothers mental health.
She is now being reunited with her mother, Charmaine, who is now better, however her mother has remarried.
Her new stepdad Angus has 4 sons, Devlin, the twins Wyatt & Magnus and Rook (Rook is only mentioned in this book).
For reasons Sydney does not know, Devlin hates her and is really cruel to her. He has a best friend Reese who can't keep his eyes off her and is really flirty. Even with all the things Devlin does to her, she feels an undeniable pull to both him and Reese.
We know Sydney has a lot to discover going forward and after the cliffhanger ending Backfire leaves us on, I'm looking forward to seeing what book 2 brings.
I have just added The Order of Ravens and Wolves to my Goodreads TBR as I now want to read more by this author.
January 10, 2023
This was first read for this author. I’m so happy I read this story as it was written amazing and the story was crazy funny. The banner between Sydney and Devlin had me in tears from laughing so hard. Those twins boys were so opposite of each others that was funny. This is a story that had me hooked and ending in a huge drop. Now I hope the second book comes out soon as I need some more of the witty Sydney and grumpy Devlin and sexy Reese.
January 15, 2023
I loved this first book in a new series by this talented author. Her writing is always excellent, her characters deep and so complex and the plot is wild, crazy and twisted but so gripping you can’t turn the page quick enough. I am loving this new world and this story was just so good. I need the next book now after that shocking ending. The mystery will keep you on the edge of your seat in this story. I loved it!
January 15, 2023
Didn’t know what to expect when I got this book and I was pleasantly surprised how enthralled it had me from the start. Sydney has been in and out of Foster care her whole life because of her mother who has mental issues. She is suddenly thrust into the life of her new step family when her mother remarries and this is where the book takes off, secrets and a moody alphahole step brother make this book even better. A great read I really enjoyed it
January 19, 2023
Oh my lord
TL Hodel does it again! Sydney was a super well developed FMC. And Devlin? Oh my god. So dark and broody with alpha-hole vibes. The bully trope was super strong and I really enjoyed that. I liked the snark and the tension between Sydney and Devlin. Reese is something else and I wanted more of him. The passion that finally unraveled through hate schmex was incredible. That damn cliffy though! I need more. 4/5. And that spice was a solid 3/5.
TL Hodel does it again! Sydney was a super well developed FMC. And Devlin? Oh my god. So dark and broody with alpha-hole vibes. The bully trope was super strong and I really enjoyed that. I liked the snark and the tension between Sydney and Devlin. Reese is something else and I wanted more of him. The passion that finally unraveled through hate schmex was incredible. That damn cliffy though! I need more. 4/5. And that spice was a solid 3/5.
January 27, 2023
Mystery's and Secrets Abound
I am completely obsessed with Backfire. T.L. Hodel has once again captured me and has me hooked with her new series Brothers of Shadow and Death. It's dark, has funny moments, and filled with secrets and mysteries around every corner. Sydney is a strong female, she doesn't take $hit from anyone. Then she is sent to live with her stepfather and in enters Devlin her new stepbrother. Sydney thought being in foster care taught her how to deal with @$$holes but nothing prepared her for Devlin. Strange things occur once Sydney moves in. She hears odd conversations that involve her and has the strangest dreams that cannot possibly be real. Sydney and Devlin butt heads like two nuclear missiles and the explosion is intense. With this read we get MMF, Stepbrother and Teacher, and Possessive Alphahole and I am living for it. We were hit with one whopper of a cliffhanger. I am dying to see what T.L. Hodel has in store for us next.
I am completely obsessed with Backfire. T.L. Hodel has once again captured me and has me hooked with her new series Brothers of Shadow and Death. It's dark, has funny moments, and filled with secrets and mysteries around every corner. Sydney is a strong female, she doesn't take $hit from anyone. Then she is sent to live with her stepfather and in enters Devlin her new stepbrother. Sydney thought being in foster care taught her how to deal with @$$holes but nothing prepared her for Devlin. Strange things occur once Sydney moves in. She hears odd conversations that involve her and has the strangest dreams that cannot possibly be real. Sydney and Devlin butt heads like two nuclear missiles and the explosion is intense. With this read we get MMF, Stepbrother and Teacher, and Possessive Alphahole and I am living for it. We were hit with one whopper of a cliffhanger. I am dying to see what T.L. Hodel has in store for us next.
March 5, 2023
Loved this book and love this shared world of the Brothers of Shadow and Death!! The story in Anywhere by Brooklyn Cross had me so anxious to read this book with Devlin, Reese and Sydney’s story! This world and the unique triads hooked me in and have me obsessed with the way the triads are chosen, the rituals to create the Union and the characters chosen for them. I know there’s so much more well learn about this world and I absolutely can’t wait!
January 17, 2023
Backfire!!!!
Oh me, oh my this book was steamy!!!! I had to stop a couple of times just to fan myself. Devlin and Syndey interactions were, dark, intense, but yet so surprising. Throw Reese into the mix and your jaw will be on the floor. I will say book one left me with many questions, I can't wait for the answers in book 2
Oh me, oh my this book was steamy!!!! I had to stop a couple of times just to fan myself. Devlin and Syndey interactions were, dark, intense, but yet so surprising. Throw Reese into the mix and your jaw will be on the floor. I will say book one left me with many questions, I can't wait for the answers in book 2
January 27, 2023
Oh my!
I never know where to start with reviews. This book was interesting and left a lot unanswered. Definitely going to read the next book once its out. Would have liked to get inside Reese and Devlin head a bit. Those two intrige the hell out of me. Hopefully the next book has some of their pov.
I never know where to start with reviews. This book was interesting and left a lot unanswered. Definitely going to read the next book once its out. Would have liked to get inside Reese and Devlin head a bit. Those two intrige the hell out of me. Hopefully the next book has some of their pov.
February 17, 2023
impressive
I had already read “anywhere “ and stumbled upon “backfire” I loved it as much as the first one. Devlin the bad boy. Reese the bad boy hiding as a good boy. And our fmc Sydney I laughed through the book at her inner thoughts that accidentally were said out loud. I loved it can’t wait for book 2 of both.
I had already read “anywhere “ and stumbled upon “backfire” I loved it as much as the first one. Devlin the bad boy. Reese the bad boy hiding as a good boy. And our fmc Sydney I laughed through the book at her inner thoughts that accidentally were said out loud. I loved it can’t wait for book 2 of both.
June 11, 2023
5 that ending left me shook
If you ever been in a reading slump then you know it’s hard to find a book that you just can’t put down. Well this is that book! I literally consumed this book in one sitting. Forget lunch! I had to know what happens next. And that ending absolutely left me shook up. Ugh!
If you ever been in a reading slump then you know it’s hard to find a book that you just can’t put down. Well this is that book! I literally consumed this book in one sitting. Forget lunch! I had to know what happens next. And that ending absolutely left me shook up. Ugh!
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