Free (Chaos #6) by Kristen Ashley @KristenAshley68

It was a bittersweet experience reading Free. As much as I longed for Rush's story, I knew it would sadly mark the end of this exceptional series. And with story-lines and tensions escalating across several novels, I was consumed with both excitement and fear re-entering Chaos's world, worried about the welfare of all the brothers, especially my man Tack. As expected, Kristen Ashley led me on another incredible journey as she penned a moving tale of undeniable love, vengeance, forgiveness, seeking redemption, finding salvation, and most importantly the unbreakable bonds of family, friendship and brotherhood. I adored the young Cole "Rush" Allen in Motorcycle Man and fell completely in love with the man he became in Free. As promised, he matured to be every bit as sexy, growly, protective and possessive as his dad, but with a gentler side. Being his father's son, Cole possesses great wisdom. He's a man who immediately recognizes what he wants, and will stop at nothing to seize it. True to his character's name, Rush quickly falls for the spirited woman who caught his eye and wastes no time in claiming Rebel Stapleton's heart. All in all, Rush was the ideal swoon-worthy hero and a total dream man. When first introduced to Diesel's sister in More than Everything a Honey Series Novella, I knew Rebel would be perfect for Rush. A fiery and feisty redhead who's compassionate, quirky, has a great sense of humor and lots of sass ~ she's a cross between Rock Chick cool and badass biker babe. A woman who feels deeply and has a heart of gold, Rebel selflessly gives all of herself to those she loves. Her connection with Rush is not only passionate but instantaneous, easygoing and virtually drama free. This read differs from the others within the series, whose focus revolved around the couple, their courtship, and a fair share of angst. Here, the romance was entwined within the several ongoing plot-lines. I found myself both wanting more time with these endearing characters, as well as missing the relationship tension I'm used to from these gritty bikers and their women. Regardless, Free is so much more than simply Rush and Rebel's story. It was Kristen Ashley's final love letter to the Chaos brotherhood as she paved their well-deserved and overdue path to freedom. The story flowed from various points of view including that of Rush, Rebel, Tack, Snapper, the lunatic Benito, and others who were involved in the club's decades-long problems. It was fascinating experiencing events unfold through different eyes. So many memorable moments made this read captivating and enjoyable. The brothers' hilarious banter and the sheer craziness of some lovable secondary characters had me giggling. Holding my breath during several intense, heart-pounding scenes as the villains in this saga had me utterly panicked. Feeling anxious over the Benito situation and conflicted with its outcome. And savoring the passion not only between the main characters but another couple who I ABSOLUTELY ADORED. However, the most unforgettable and heartwarming moments were those between father and son. Tack and Rush have a unique bond and the level of love, trust, respect, and loyalty they shared overwhelmed me. Free was tremendously emotional, and there are no words to describe how remarkably KA wove each story-line together to tie every loose end into one spool of thread. A definite must-read, but know that with its beginnings rooted in Motorcycle Man, and plot-lines developing throughout each installment, this is not a standalone novel. Thrilled to see cameos from so many past loves like Knight, Raid and some of the Hot Bunch/Dream Man hotties. Additionally, fans of the Honey Series will be happy to see D, Mad, and Sixx made an OTT grand appearance ~ which added a new, unexpected and different vibe to this story.  Finally, of all the series in KA's literary world, Chaos is undoubtedly my favorite, and I am beside myself with sadness that it has ended. Hopefully, we will see these characters sometime in the future, perhaps in romances featuring Dutch and Jagger Black. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this publication

Wild Like the Wind (Chaos #5) by Kristen Ashley @KristenAshley68

5 Stars

In a word this romance was phenomenal. Once again Kristen Ashley touched the heart of me with her masterful writing style and dynamic characters. This series is undoubtedly my absolute favorite as these gritty Chaos brothers and their women own a piece of me. This novel was no exception. Overwhelmed by all the feels, Wild Like the Wind was beyond amazing, and I walked away from this read tingling with excitement. Intense, wildly emotional and savagely passionate, Hound and Keely's journey both wrecked and healed me.

Following the series, I knew that this would not be an easygoing read with the heroine being Black's widow, but confident that Ashley would deliver another exceptional heart wrenching, exquisitely uplifting romance. She did not disappoint. With each turn of the page, she controlled my emotions while guiding me through this couple's complicated relationship. Their struggles, from both dealing with grief and profound feelings of hopelessness to Hound's guilt for falling desperately in love with a woman he could never claim, pulled at my heartstrings. This couple faced a slew of uphill battles that had me anxious. With a forbidden relationship, defying the code of brotherhood, dealing with hurt feelings and misunderstandings ~ the angst level in this read was palatable, but I relished every minute of it.

I adored Keely, even though it took some time to see the real 'old lady' behind the shroud of grief, and I confess she made me a bit nervous. Knowing she mourned Black for over eighteen years, was left alone with two young boys (Dutch and Jagger, the coolest little bikers that stole my heart) and seeing the extent of her anger and sorrow in Walk Through Fire, had me on edge. Keely needed to persuade me that her devotion to Hound was sincere. But seeing how she made peace with the past and opened her heart to Hound convinced me. I loved Keely's perseverance and will to find her wild again with the one man she needed - Hound.

Shepherd "Hound" Ironside blew me away and I was amazed by the depths of his love, beauty, and pain. He was so much more than the peripheral, stoic man known as Chaos' "dog on a leash." His fierce loyalty and driving need to shield those he loved was tremendously admirable. Hopelessly in love with Keely for so many years, I was overjoyed when he finally had his heart's desire.

Completely unaware of how his family cherished and respected him, it was touching to see Hound's surprise when realizing he was worthy of their affections. 

And the sacrifices he made, scarring his soul to protect the club and avenge his fallen brother, he had me in awe. These were some of the reasons why I fell hard for this hero. But Hound's greatest moments, where he undeniably captured my heart, was through his relationships with Jean-Bug, Dutch, and Jagger.

I cannot begin to describe my adoration for Jean. Her character was such a positive force in Shepherd's life, she brought out his inner beauty, gentleness, and compassion. Jean was his family outside of the club and their connection was incredibly powerful. You'll need to meet Jean for yourself and fall in love with all of her awesomeness.

Hound was a constant presence in Dutch and Jagger's lives since Black's passing. The way he loved these boys, how he selflessly gave of himself and treated them as his own without overshadowing their father, made me fall deeper in love with him. He honored his brother's memory by helping Keely guide them to become the men their father dreamed they would be. They too brought out the best in Hound.

There was so much goodness in this romance to enjoy. Hound was an unbelievably sexy and swoon-worthy hero. This badass biker boy and his old lady liked it rough and dirty as they devoured each other. Seriously, their chemistry was so wildly explosive, they had me breathless, clenching my way through this read.

Wild Like the Wind was a remarkable story of second chances, hope, undying love and the bonds of brotherhood strengthening after weathering the storm. Tensions continue to escalate within the club as they gear up to face their enemies and Benito Valenzuela. Threats weigh heavily on these brothers, and I cannot wait to see it come to a head in the next and last book in the series.

Amazon (Kindle and Print): https://amzn.to/2NkWhuV
Audible: https://amzn.to/2HaaciQ
iBooks: https://apple.co/2DiwSLU
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2GekgJ5
Nook: http://bit.ly/2Gf5lhF

I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this publication

ROUGH RIDE a Chaos Novella (Chaos #5) by Kristen Ashley @KristenAshley68 @InkSlingerPR

I'm back at the compound to spend some much needed time with my favorite MC boys and biker babes ~ the Chaos crew. It's been a while since visiting Ride, and I sorely missed these brothers of the cut and their sexy badass Alpha ways. Fascinated with these characters since reading Motorcycle Man, each steamy novel within this spin-off series was gritty, intense, and passion-filled. The story told in Rough Ride was no different. Once again Kristen Ashley fed my never-ending addiction for her romances with another emotional tale, this time featuring two minor characters we've met before and whose stories I've longed for ~ Snapper and Rosalie. Rosalie "Rosie" Holloway had a complicated history with Chaos. Before putting herself on the line as their informant, providing information on (her now ex) Throttle's MC, Rosie first appeared in Own the Wind as Shy Cage's ex-girlfriend. Even though their time together was short, and Shy abruptly dumping Rosalie led to his beautiful life with Tabby, a part of me felt genuinely sorry for how she was left shattered. I never resented or faulted Rosie for being involved with Shy, as she was a victim of circumstances; I just wanted to know this woman's story and see her find happiness. My wishes for Rosie finally came true in this novella, as Everett “Snapper” Kavanagh proved to be worthy of her heart by the tenderly mending all of her wounds. The cherry on top ~ there was no friction between any of these characters due to their past connections, and I was relieved. For me, this story was about discovering the real Rosalie, experiencing her pain, the long road to healing, and seeing her relationship with Snapper blossom to true love. I relished every moment of their slow-burning, heartfelt journey. A sweet and soft-spoken woman who had the unfortunate knack of hitching her wagon on the wrong star, Rosalie's story tugged at my heartstrings.  She was a lost soul ~ mourning the loss of her dad while searching for the 'forever love' her parents shared, led her to find only heartache and brutality. The abuse she endured, mentally and physically, gutted me. Her luck changed for the better when without choice she became a part of Chaos. That's one of the things I adore most about these bikers; how they all value the bonds of brotherhood by protecting and caring for their extended family. Tack and his crew embraced Rosalie, kept her safe within their arms, in the most touching way. But it was Snapper's fierce love, patience, and persistence that finally put an end to Rosie's rough ride. Loving her from afar for so long, he gently made his way into her heart and life when finally getting the chance. And while earning her trust and affections, Snapper managed to become a perfect hero I truly adored. I loved all things Snapper. He was an incredibly sexy biker badass ~ possessive, controlling and edgy ~ but in a remarkably calm and subdued way. The depths of his love and patience when dealing with Rosie, guarding her heart and giving her the time she needed, was moving. However, don't let his easy-going demeanor fool you. As mellow as his character was, in times of trouble, Snapper unleashed a fury like no other. Proving he would do anything and everything to protect Rosie and the club family. A shorter, fast-paced read jam-packed with so much KA goodness, this novella delivered and satisfied my Chaos craving. Although considered a standalone, I do recommend reading all the books in this series, to appreciate Snapper and Rosalie's passionate romance and to understand their history. I was thrilled to see all of my favorites MC characters, as well as revisiting some old Rock Chick friends hanging out in Fortnums and Zip's Gun Emporium. And the epilogue...holy moly, was it EXPLOSIVE! Angst-filled and leaving me gripping my kindle with my head spinning, I was conjuring up all sorts of plot theories and scenarios. The stage is set here for future books, and I cannot wait until the next installment ~ Wild Like the Wind. Click to purchase your copy today!  Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon AU | Amazon Canada The Series: Own the Wind ~ http://amzn.to/2o32tfb Fire Inside ~ http://amzn.to/2EoBuG3 Ride Steady ~ http://amzn.to/2BVyzmC Walk Through Fire ~ http://amzn.to/2EpXjRr  I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this publication

Bounty (Colorado Mountain #7) by Kristen Ashley @KristenAshley68

4.5 Stars I've missed the mighty mountain men of Colorado and so stoked to be back in Carnal to visit with some of my all-time favorite Alpha-hunks. Mostly, I couldn't wait to unravel the enigmatic character that has haunted me for so long… Deke Hightower. Since introduced in Sweet Dreams, I was fascinated by his imposing presence and wanted to dig deep into his soul. I discovered he’s a man whose sparse words spoke volumes. It took a gypsy chick, Justice Lonesome, to peel away the layers and bring his character to life. Their journey consumed me ~ from a chance encounter to a friendship turned undeniable love ~ I was happily absorbed in Jussy and Deke's world. I loved how fate brought this couple together...twice. First time in Wyoming, while Justice was hanging out in a biker bar contemplating her unfulfilled life, longing for simplicity. Her world changed after spending a few moments with the gorgeous guy standing by a chain link fence. The stranger named Deke connected with her ‘poet's soul'. With a promise to meet again broken, Deke became an impassioned memory, which inspired Justice to compose and record a song that defined her life altering experience. It was Deke's song. And it was a hit. Years later, after the recent passing of her father, Jussy decided to build a home in Carnal. Lo and behold, her contractor is none other than Deke, the man who rocked her world and stood her up. Thing is, he didn't recognize her at first. YIKES!! Poor Justice, I sympathized with all the hurt she felt. Top it off, he acted downright rude. Jussy being a cool chick took all his gruffness in stride and was determined to become his friend. It took time, but Deke finally remembered Jus and explained the heart breaking reason why he never showed. Jussy, Deke's boho gypsy princess and famous singer-songwriter, was the most down to earth heroine. I liked the strength, sincerity and compassion her character embodied. I dug how deeply she connected with everyone who touched her life, bringing out their best, especially those most guarded. She was a woman of means, who had the world at her fingertips, but took nothing for granted ~ especially Deke’s affections. But what I absolutely adored was the way she immediately understood Deke, recognized his needs, and loved him unconditionally. After reading Bounty, I was moved to write a ballad professing all of Deke's hotness. Broody, rugged, and a beast in bed...I was totally into his intense sexiness. Deke was a headstrong man who lived a simple life. Reserved and set in his ways, it took time for me to warm up to his character. But when I saw all the pain he shouldered, I got where this “travelin’ man” was coming from. Hurt from his past gave him good reason to deny his desire for Justice. Regardless, I wanted him to let go of his hang-ups to see the real woman behind all the money and fame. One terrifying night for Justice caused Deke to put his feelings into perspective, and everything between them shifted. He could no longer fight the attraction, Jus meant the world to him. Determined to give her peace, love, comfort… anything his gypsy princess needed. That’s the moment I saw the fiercely protective and loving side of Deke come to life, and he won me over. When he beautifully opened up his heart, and gave all of himself to Jussy, I was a goner… and fell deeply in love with the caring, overly affectionate man he became. Both free-spirited wanderlusts, they were perfect together. I loved that their journey was a slow burn filled with discovery, love, laughter and passion. Gah! Ashley is a master when it comes to writing sizzling sex scenes that makes me all tingly inside. One of the most sensual moments, and there were several, was when Jus finally confessed the meaning behind her song ~ how meeting Deke long ago affected her. His reaction was phenomenal. Once again, I was spoiled with the bounty KA brings to all her tales - dynamic characters, scorching passion, a very detailed and emotional plot - the gifts were endless. It can be enjoyed as a standalone, but I recommend experiencing all of these hot romances. I loved that this read was reminiscent of Ashley's earlier works within the series, where secondary characters were more intimately involved in the story line. Practically all of the Colorado Series gang, and some from different series, came into play. Overjoyed that Krystal, who I adore, had a notable presence in the story. Jussy brought out a different side of Krys and she absolutely shined! There were some moments of angst, and during one particular heart palpitating scene, I was scared out of my mind! Seriously, my heart was in my mouth, tears filling my eyes! I would have liked a longer epilogue, seeing more into Jus and Deke’s future ~ I'm a very greedy reader when it comes to KA’s tales, never wanting to let go of her characters or their stories. Nevertheless, the ending was heartwarming as well as bittersweet. Bounty was an exceptionally written, powerful story of destined love that touched my heart. A final note ~ Bounty included an incredible playlist of songs that enhanced this couple’s journey. (Jus crooning “Time in a Bottle” brought me to tears). But, it was this tune that was playing in the background of my mind, as I was fully absorbed within Deke and Justice's world... “Lightning strikes...Maybe once...Maybe twice”. And it did, for the Gypsy that was Justice Lonesome.  ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review