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Motor City Royals #2
Wrong for Me
Fueled by desire and anger, an ex-con plots to take everything he wants now that he’s free in this tale of romantic suspense from the author of "Sin for Me".
After eight years in prison, Levi Rush is finally out and back on the gritty streets of Detroit to claim the future he was owed. A future that includes the one woman he’s wanted for years—his former best friend Rachel. She’s the reason he went inside, and if getting her to do what he wants means buying the building that houses her tattoo studio and using it as leverage, then that’s what he’ll do. Because if there’s one thing he’s learned inside it’s that if you want to win, you have to play dirty.
Rachel Hamilton is a tattoo artist and one hell of a tough girl. Detroit is her home, and she’s determined to make it a better place. But her plans are threatened when her old friend Levi reappears and gives her an ultimatum: she gives herself to him body and soul, or else she and her business are out on the street. Levi’s got no room in his heart for anything but anger and the lust he’s been carrying around for so long. But the only thing stronger than the secrets of their shared past is their fiery attraction to each other…
After eight years in prison, Levi Rush is finally out and back on the gritty streets of Detroit to claim the future he was owed. A future that includes the one woman he’s wanted for years—his former best friend Rachel. She’s the reason he went inside, and if getting her to do what he wants means buying the building that houses her tattoo studio and using it as leverage, then that’s what he’ll do. Because if there’s one thing he’s learned inside it’s that if you want to win, you have to play dirty.
Rachel Hamilton is a tattoo artist and one hell of a tough girl. Detroit is her home, and she’s determined to make it a better place. But her plans are threatened when her old friend Levi reappears and gives her an ultimatum: she gives herself to him body and soul, or else she and her business are out on the street. Levi’s got no room in his heart for anything but anger and the lust he’s been carrying around for so long. But the only thing stronger than the secrets of their shared past is their fiery attraction to each other…
321 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 29, 2016
About the author
Jackie Ashenden
348 books943 followersJackie has been writing fiction since she was eleven years old. Mild mannered fantasy/SF/pseudo-literary writer by day, obsessive romance writer by night, she used to balance her writing with the more serious job of librarianship until a chance meeting with another romance writer prompted her to throw off the shackles of her day job and devote herself to the true love of her heart – writing romance. She particularly likes to write dark, emotional stories with alpha heroes who've just got the world to their liking only to have it blown wide apart by their kick-ass heroines.
She lives in Auckland, New Zealand with her husband, the inimitable Dr Jax, two kids, two cats and some guppies (possibly dead guppies by the time you read this). When she's not torturing alpha males and their stroppy heroines, she can be found drinking chocolate martinis, reading anything she can lay her hands on, posting random crap on her blog, or being forced to go mountain biking with her husband.
She lives in Auckland, New Zealand with her husband, the inimitable Dr Jax, two kids, two cats and some guppies (possibly dead guppies by the time you read this). When she's not torturing alpha males and their stroppy heroines, she can be found drinking chocolate martinis, reading anything she can lay her hands on, posting random crap on her blog, or being forced to go mountain biking with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
October 18, 2016
I'm not a huge fan of people that feel the world owes them something and from the beginning that's the vibe that Levi exudes. Yes, he did time for standing up for his best friend Rachel (I'm not giving anything up, it's in the blurb). Yes, he has the right to be pissed at her for how she reacted afterwards, but he's a complete douche to her and he does things that take her out of her comfort zone and are manipulative. Nothing about his machinations scream love to me. It's literal and emotional blackmail. If she really hurt him, he could've just walked away and moved on when he got out. The plot and what caused the rift between them is just plain sad. While that is not atypical in a story, it doesn't seem to recover or progress into something redeeming. It has this dark cloud over it and even the purported HFN doesn't win me back. I see some potential here, but I will have to agree with the book title and say this is "Wrong for Me". Safety: No others while they are together. There is an attempted rape. No physical abuse but what he does to her sure as hell feels like emotional abuse to me.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2016
3,5 STARS
Well, this sure isn't what I was expecting from this story. I though I would get, I don't know, something more dark or even more disturbing, since all the previous reviews led me to believe that there is some doubtful consent and unmoral doing going on between those two main characters. As far as I'm concerned when you are given a choice and you choose maybe not your liked choice but a willing choice nonethless then I don't see that as something you are forced into, since you could have chosen a different path. But if you really want something you have to play with the devil and that's what Rachel sure does.
But if you think that's a dark and disturbing read then you have trully never read a dark and twisted tale before. Like Pam Godwin or Pepper Winters or so many other great 'dark' writers who know how to make you doubt yourself and your own humanity. It's safe to say that once you've done reading those books, your view on the world and yourself will change. You will either need some professional help or you will accept the fact that you just don't give a f*** and that you have some dark tendencies yourself.
But back to this story. I honestly don't have that much to say, other that I was a bit dissapointed by how the ending turned out. Levi holds up the story, that's for sure. He's one hell of an angry guy with a sweet revenge plan for the one person who he thought was his sun but in the end turned the reason he went to prison. And eight years in the cell will definitely change a man and in this case not for the better. He's cold and his only goal is to make his home town a better place with everybody willing or not. And of course to get his revenge, no matter the cost. And boy, he does that all. The only problem? This little feeling called love. I guess it's hat time of the month again, where I have to be all smiles and butterflies NOT. Over more than the half of the story those two characters have a love-hate relationship that slowly, really slowly, starts to turn back to what it once was. I was really looking forward to something dark and twisted to read about but instead got a story about regret, love and forgivness. I guess that's OK, too but I would have enjoyed the story more had I not read the previous reviews. Learned my lesson (hopefully).
All I can say is that this story is great for those readers who want a more emotional read that will maybe make them think about life mistakes and how people find the strenght to forgive and move on.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Safety:
Well, this sure isn't what I was expecting from this story. I though I would get, I don't know, something more dark or even more disturbing, since all the previous reviews led me to believe that there is some doubtful consent and unmoral doing going on between those two main characters. As far as I'm concerned when you are given a choice and you choose maybe not your liked choice but a willing choice nonethless then I don't see that as something you are forced into, since you could have chosen a different path. But if you really want something you have to play with the devil and that's what Rachel sure does.
But if you think that's a dark and disturbing read then you have trully never read a dark and twisted tale before. Like Pam Godwin or Pepper Winters or so many other great 'dark' writers who know how to make you doubt yourself and your own humanity. It's safe to say that once you've done reading those books, your view on the world and yourself will change. You will either need some professional help or you will accept the fact that you just don't give a f*** and that you have some dark tendencies yourself.
But back to this story. I honestly don't have that much to say, other that I was a bit dissapointed by how the ending turned out. Levi holds up the story, that's for sure. He's one hell of an angry guy with a sweet revenge plan for the one person who he thought was his sun but in the end turned the reason he went to prison. And eight years in the cell will definitely change a man and in this case not for the better. He's cold and his only goal is to make his home town a better place with everybody willing or not. And of course to get his revenge, no matter the cost. And boy, he does that all. The only problem? This little feeling called love. I guess it's hat time of the month again, where I have to be all smiles and butterflies NOT. Over more than the half of the story those two characters have a love-hate relationship that slowly, really slowly, starts to turn back to what it once was. I was really looking forward to something dark and twisted to read about but instead got a story about regret, love and forgivness. I guess that's OK, too but I would have enjoyed the story more had I not read the previous reviews. Learned my lesson (hopefully).
All I can say is that this story is great for those readers who want a more emotional read that will maybe make them think about life mistakes and how people find the strenght to forgive and move on.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Safety:
August 22, 2016
Rating: 1.5/5
(I received a free copy from the publisher, Kensington, via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.)
***Minor spoilers, TW: MENTIONS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT***
Levi has spent several years in prison for accidentally killing a man who was going to attack his best friend, Rachel. However, Rachel would never tell him why she was in that alley. She never even gave her statement for what happened, and never once visited Levi while he was in prison. Levi considers it all her fault that he was in prison in the first place, and that fact that she never visited didn't help. Before he went in, Levi had wanted to be with her, but didn't think it was the right time. Now that he's out, he wants the life he should have had with her. While he was in prison, Rachel has opened her own tattoo parlour, Sugar Ink, in an abandoned building and now has a good business where she can use her artistic skills. However, this is all threatened by Levi, who now owns the building Sugar Ink uses. Rachel has a choice - be with Levi and give him the life he wanted, or lose her business.
This could've been a lot better of a read if Levi didn't make me so uncomfortable. I didn't like him at all, and I'm honestly not sure if I was supposed to. I feel like the author was aiming to make Levi irritating but understandable, but all he did was piss me off. For lack of a better term, he was pretty rapey. I found it disturbing that he thought it was okay to manipulate and blackmail Rachel in the way he was doing. I get that Rachel is partially responsible for what happened to him, but as Rachel says many times, he isn't even owning up to what he did, only placing all the blame on her. Also, I can't believe he was okay with pressuring her into sex. I know he views it as having a choice, but I don't really consider it a real choice since it was blackmail. He's so messed up that he thinks if he arouses her enough then it won't matter? Still feels like assault to me.
Other than Levi, this book actually wasn't too bad. I felt bad for what Rachel had to go through in her life, and what she had done which caused her to end up in that alley. I also felt bad because of what Levi was doing to her - making her feel so much guilt and forcing her make such an idiotic decision. The supporting characters were interesting too, but I wish I knew this was the second in the series so that I could read the first book before this one, since I know those characters were introduced in that book already based on its synopsis.
Overall, this would've been a better read if Levi wasn't such a disturbing creep. If his creepiness was toned down then I think I would've liked it a lot more. I know that throughout the book Levi is supposed to go down a path of self-discovery and redemption, but in my own mind he couldn't redeem himself from what he did right at the beginning of the novel, no matter how much he claims to love Rachel. I definitely wouldn't recommend this to anyone looking for a good romance novel, because trust me, Levi will piss you off. However, if you're interested you can find it on Netgalley here: https://s2.netgalley.com/catalog/book...
(I received a free copy from the publisher, Kensington, via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.)
***Minor spoilers, TW: MENTIONS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT***
Levi has spent several years in prison for accidentally killing a man who was going to attack his best friend, Rachel. However, Rachel would never tell him why she was in that alley. She never even gave her statement for what happened, and never once visited Levi while he was in prison. Levi considers it all her fault that he was in prison in the first place, and that fact that she never visited didn't help. Before he went in, Levi had wanted to be with her, but didn't think it was the right time. Now that he's out, he wants the life he should have had with her. While he was in prison, Rachel has opened her own tattoo parlour, Sugar Ink, in an abandoned building and now has a good business where she can use her artistic skills. However, this is all threatened by Levi, who now owns the building Sugar Ink uses. Rachel has a choice - be with Levi and give him the life he wanted, or lose her business.
This could've been a lot better of a read if Levi didn't make me so uncomfortable. I didn't like him at all, and I'm honestly not sure if I was supposed to. I feel like the author was aiming to make Levi irritating but understandable, but all he did was piss me off. For lack of a better term, he was pretty rapey. I found it disturbing that he thought it was okay to manipulate and blackmail Rachel in the way he was doing. I get that Rachel is partially responsible for what happened to him, but as Rachel says many times, he isn't even owning up to what he did, only placing all the blame on her. Also, I can't believe he was okay with pressuring her into sex. I know he views it as having a choice, but I don't really consider it a real choice since it was blackmail. He's so messed up that he thinks if he arouses her enough then it won't matter? Still feels like assault to me.
Other than Levi, this book actually wasn't too bad. I felt bad for what Rachel had to go through in her life, and what she had done which caused her to end up in that alley. I also felt bad because of what Levi was doing to her - making her feel so much guilt and forcing her make such an idiotic decision. The supporting characters were interesting too, but I wish I knew this was the second in the series so that I could read the first book before this one, since I know those characters were introduced in that book already based on its synopsis.
Overall, this would've been a better read if Levi wasn't such a disturbing creep. If his creepiness was toned down then I think I would've liked it a lot more. I know that throughout the book Levi is supposed to go down a path of self-discovery and redemption, but in my own mind he couldn't redeem himself from what he did right at the beginning of the novel, no matter how much he claims to love Rachel. I definitely wouldn't recommend this to anyone looking for a good romance novel, because trust me, Levi will piss you off. However, if you're interested you can find it on Netgalley here: https://s2.netgalley.com/catalog/book...
November 24, 2016
When it comes to emotions sometimes there can be a fine line between love and anger. The passion and the emotional state can sometimes blur those lines. That blur and those emotions is what you get in this book.
The title of the book fits exactly with the story. The deep emotion and connection between the two characters is highly evident. And while Levi can be mean in words, his actions only showed his love and affection.
Being able to read between the lines of the depth of emotion that is built up in Levi is important to fully grasp the great work the author did in crafting this story. It is completely engrossing and you find yourself emotionally involved from the very beginning.
A wonderful escape with HEA that we hope for through the ups and downs in this captivating story. Looking forward to more in this series.
The title of the book fits exactly with the story. The deep emotion and connection between the two characters is highly evident. And while Levi can be mean in words, his actions only showed his love and affection.
Being able to read between the lines of the depth of emotion that is built up in Levi is important to fully grasp the great work the author did in crafting this story. It is completely engrossing and you find yourself emotionally involved from the very beginning.
A wonderful escape with HEA that we hope for through the ups and downs in this captivating story. Looking forward to more in this series.
September 1, 2016
This was a tough story. Levi spent 8 years in jail for accidentally killing a man while trying to protect Rachel. He's secretly loved Rachel for years and has always been there for her, protecting her. He doesn't understand why she didn't give a statement to the police or came and visited him in jail. He has had 8 years to build up his hurt and anger. 8 years he's had to protect himself in jail believing the most important person to him has forgotten him, learning he can no longer trust anyone. He doesn't know the secret Rachel has been keeping. The guilt and shame that has kept her from going to him. I wasn't surprised when Levi decided he wanted to punish her when he got out of jail. It's not an easy thing to understand. It's not rational, but he's so angry and deep down under that anger is so much hurt. He immediately wants to lash out and he lashes out in a bad way. Despite this, I could see that he just needed Rachel back in his life. He did it in the wrong way but he learns quickly that he doesn't really want to hurt her. This won't be a story for everyone but I thought the author did a good job of trying to keep this real. Ofcourse Levi would have a hard time adjusting, forgiving and trusting. Only the truth coming out will he be able to heal.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 27, 2016
***ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley***
I liked parts of this one, but I did not love it and it didn't work for me overall.
The writing was strong and the characters were also consistent and believable. The issue I had is that I was not really ever able to understand the attraction Rachel felt for Levi. Yes, they were friends before he went to jail...but 8 years has passed, she feels responsible for him going to jail, he blames her and he exacts his revenge. I was not really able to invest in the story as I was never really able to understand why she was so drawn to him...to me, the relationship had a foundation of revenge and disrespect.
I actually liked Levi and Rachel separately, but I found myself almost wishing that they were each involved with someone else and that they were characters who appeared together on the side of one another's story.
I don't really recommend this book.
***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
I liked parts of this one, but I did not love it and it didn't work for me overall.
The writing was strong and the characters were also consistent and believable. The issue I had is that I was not really ever able to understand the attraction Rachel felt for Levi. Yes, they were friends before he went to jail...but 8 years has passed, she feels responsible for him going to jail, he blames her and he exacts his revenge. I was not really able to invest in the story as I was never really able to understand why she was so drawn to him...to me, the relationship had a foundation of revenge and disrespect.
I actually liked Levi and Rachel separately, but I found myself almost wishing that they were each involved with someone else and that they were characters who appeared together on the side of one another's story.
I don't really recommend this book.
***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
October 18, 2016
This novel is intense on so many levels. Ashenden definitely kept my heart pumping throughout. From the tension between the characters to the events that they lived, each aspect left me reeling. And the heated chemistry that makes the pages sizzle? It was un-ignorable and absolutely brilliantly written. Ashenden's vivid and vibrant descriptions not only bring this world to life but also transports readers into the middle of an exciting and emotionally turbulent tale. This novel broke my heart and had me in tears, but it's also one of the most rewarding tales I've read this year.
This is definitely a novel that will tear you down and then put you back together while also taking you through one hot relationship built on an interesting foundation. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone, whether or not you've read the 1st novel of the series.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
This is definitely a novel that will tear you down and then put you back together while also taking you through one hot relationship built on an interesting foundation. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone, whether or not you've read the 1st novel of the series.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
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December 18, 2023I'm going to try this again later on..... maybe.
I def don't like this trope or the FMC. I'm barely a chapter in and I already want her to die.
She let her BFF go to prison for killing someone that was trying to rape her. Not only did she refuse to give a statement to the police, but she never once visited him while he was in prison.
What kind of b!tch does that?!?!
Actually, this will probably end up a DNF for me because that's unforgiveable in my book.
I def don't like this trope or the FMC. I'm barely a chapter in and I already want her to die.
She let her BFF go to prison for killing someone that was trying to rape her. Not only did she refuse to give a statement to the police, but she never once visited him while he was in prison.
What kind of b!tch does that?!?!
Actually, this will probably end up a DNF for me because that's unforgiveable in my book.
July 16, 2016
This is a tough book to review because it's hella dark. If I didn't trust Jackie Ashenden the way I do, I probably wouldn't have made it through the whole thing. Heads up warning that some of the interactions between the hero and heroine could come across as dubious consent. It certainly made me uncomfortable at times, but never enough to stop or to not enjoy the book. I think Jackie is a master at what she does: fucked up characters who feel like fucked up people fighting through tough shit and managing to make it through together because of love.
And that's why I love her.
And that's why I love her.
October 13, 2016
I was so intrigued by the synopsis for this one. This is my first read by this author. The book tells about best friends separated by years as one of them was in jail. Levi understandably comes out a changed man.
Rachel and Levi are part of a group of friends that found each other and thrived despite deplorable situations in their lives. Rachel ends up being the catalyst for Levi going to jail. I can understand some anger or hurt over this. In fact, Rachel feels so guilty, she doesn't have any more contact with Levi for 8 years.
I could not connect with where these two characters were coming from. Levi is nasty and mean to Rachel for well over 60% of the book---even though he bribes her into having s3x! It just did not sit well with me to have a man manipulating and controlling and bribing someone who was very dear to him. I felt it was demeaning to Rachel. No woman should be treated that way ever. The fact that Levi couldn't let it go, even with her apology and explanation as to her absense over the years, was just to much to continue reading about.
Overall, the authors writing style and layout of the story was well done. It's told in different POV so we get glimpses of both lead character's thoughts. this one just wasn't for me.
*ARC provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
Rachel and Levi are part of a group of friends that found each other and thrived despite deplorable situations in their lives. Rachel ends up being the catalyst for Levi going to jail. I can understand some anger or hurt over this. In fact, Rachel feels so guilty, she doesn't have any more contact with Levi for 8 years.
I could not connect with where these two characters were coming from. Levi is nasty and mean to Rachel for well over 60% of the book---even though he bribes her into having s3x! It just did not sit well with me to have a man manipulating and controlling and bribing someone who was very dear to him. I felt it was demeaning to Rachel. No woman should be treated that way ever. The fact that Levi couldn't let it go, even with her apology and explanation as to her absense over the years, was just to much to continue reading about.
Overall, the authors writing style and layout of the story was well done. It's told in different POV so we get glimpses of both lead character's thoughts. this one just wasn't for me.
*ARC provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
August 17, 2016
Wrong for Me by Jackie Ashenden
This book...oh this book!!! I'm not a five star type of gal...normally. It takes a lot for a novel to gain five stars in my opinion...but this story took the cake. Levi and Rachel are intense, sexy, terrifying, and gritty. Their relationship is unforgettable.
When Levi returns home from spending 8 years in prison it is huge adjustment. Yet, first thing on his list is to get the one thing he lost all those years ago, Rachel. Levi plans to make Rachel his with no questions asked, no matter the cost. Rachel has no choice, she's the one who put her best friend beyond bars in the first place. Out of guilt, she agrees to any and all of Levi's demands, whatever they may be. Boy, oh boy, are Levi's demands hot and heavy. Rachel meets all of Levi's demands and then some...yet can she keep her emotions hidden behind her sarcasm and humor? Or will she allow her emotions to rule the roost and lead her into Levi's arms?
With Rachel meeting his demands without a thought will Levi be able to stick to his plan? Levi and Rachel must discover their newfound relationship and lay it all on the line...including their past.
A steamy, sexy, deliciously hot read.
This book...oh this book!!! I'm not a five star type of gal...normally. It takes a lot for a novel to gain five stars in my opinion...but this story took the cake. Levi and Rachel are intense, sexy, terrifying, and gritty. Their relationship is unforgettable.
When Levi returns home from spending 8 years in prison it is huge adjustment. Yet, first thing on his list is to get the one thing he lost all those years ago, Rachel. Levi plans to make Rachel his with no questions asked, no matter the cost. Rachel has no choice, she's the one who put her best friend beyond bars in the first place. Out of guilt, she agrees to any and all of Levi's demands, whatever they may be. Boy, oh boy, are Levi's demands hot and heavy. Rachel meets all of Levi's demands and then some...yet can she keep her emotions hidden behind her sarcasm and humor? Or will she allow her emotions to rule the roost and lead her into Levi's arms?
With Rachel meeting his demands without a thought will Levi be able to stick to his plan? Levi and Rachel must discover their newfound relationship and lay it all on the line...including their past.
A steamy, sexy, deliciously hot read.
Shelved as 'dnf'
August 8, 2017DNF at 55% because I just can't relate to the heroine, Rachel at all, and to a lesser extent the hero,Levi as well. I just don't care enough about the Rachel to read on and find out why she left her best friend Levi to swing and didn't support him at all over the 8 years he was in prison. While I could completely understand how pissed Levi was, there wasn't much character development at half the book. Combined with a heroine I really didn't give two shits about, I'm ditching this one in favour of a more enjoyable read. I'm sure others will enjoy this and it's a case of it being me and not the book.
October 16, 2016
Really enjoying this series and this author! I found I didn't love this book, Wrong For Me, quite as much as Dirty For Me (which I gave 5 Stars), and yet still it was very good. I love that the series is set in Detroit, and I'm not even from there - lol. The setting adds to the feeling of raw grittiness and reality. The heroines are relatable, likable, and perfect for their men. The heroes bring panty-melting, super-alpha intensity and sexual charisma. I mean, whoa! Mind blown! Bits and pieces of the plot may not be new, but they *feel* new thanks to the author's style and talent. Can't wait for Gideon's and Zoe's book! Full review to come ...
*My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book*
*My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book*
November 28, 2016
3.5 stars--
About the book: Release Date November 29, 2016
After eight years in prison, Levi Rush is finally out and back on the gritty streets of Detroit to claim the future he was owed. A future that includes the one woman he’s wanted for years—his former best friend Rachel. She’s the reason he went inside and if getting her to do what he wants means buying the building that houses her tattoo studio and using it as leverage, then that’s what he’ll do. Because if there’s one thing he’s learned inside it’s that if you want to win, you have to play dirty.
Rachel Hamilton is a tattoo artist and one hell of a tough girl. Detroit is her home, and she’s determined to make it a better place. But her plans are threatened when her old friend Levi reappears and gives her an ultimatum: she gives herself to him body and soul, or else she and her business are out on the street. Levi’s got no room in his heart for anything but anger and the lust he’s been carrying around for so long. But the only thing stronger than the secrets of their shared past is their fiery attraction to each other.
••••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars---WRONG FOR ME is the second installment in Jackie Ashenden’s contemporary, adult MOTOR CITY ROYALS erotic, romance series focusing on a tight knit group of friends from Detroit. This is former inmate Levi Rush, and tattoo artist Rachel Hamilton’s story line. WRONG FOR ME can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Rachel and Levi) WRONG FOR ME is a friends to lovers/second chance storyline that follows the rekindling friendship between Rachel Hamilton and Levi Rush. Eight years earlier Levi was sent to prison for killing a man who had attacked his best friend Rachel. Fast forward to present day and Levi is an angry ex-con, h*ll bent on reclaiming all that he lost, and what he had lost were the eight years he could have been spending with the woman that he loves. Determined to renew his relationship with Rachel, Levi ‘blackmails’ Rachel for all of the wrong reasons ensuring Rachel remains by his side-one way or another. What ensues is an emotional battle between Levi and Rachel, and Levi’s dogged determination to prove he is worthy.
WRONG FOR ME is a story of family and friendship; heartbreak and love; moving forward and letting go of the past. Levi and Rachel, along with Gideon and Zoe come from the mean streets of Detroit, and it is their backstory and earlier years together that make up the emotional and protective relationships that encompass the series premise. Years of suffering and feeling unworthy find Levi Rush trying to prove he is deserving of the life that has passed him by.
The relationship between Rachel and Levi is one of emotional blackmail. Levi struggles with the loss of the previous eight years but more so with Rachel’s rejection and apparent lack of concern as it pertained to Levi and what happened years before.
All of the previous story line characters including Zee and Tamara (Dirty For Me #1), as well as Zoe James and Gideon Black play secondary and supporting roles. Rachel’s co-worker and fellow tattooist Xavier is ever protective of his friend and colleague. Zoe and Gideon’s story is next in Sin For Me (March 2017).
The world building continues to focus on five friends (Gideon, Zoe, Zee, Levi & Rachel) and the difficulties of growing up poor on the mean streets of Detroit. We are witness to the plans for redevelopment that may or may not have approval from the people who live and struggle to survive.
WRONG FOR ME is a dark and gritty look at endurance; at existing one day at a time; at struggling to succeed in a world that is continually pushing you down. The premise is startling ; the characters are passionate but tragic; the romance is emotional and disconcerting. At times, Levi’s treatment of Rachel and his need to recover years of lost time is misguided, vengeful and questionable. I also had a couple of issues with questions that were never addressed and left unresolved.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
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About the book: Release Date November 29, 2016
After eight years in prison, Levi Rush is finally out and back on the gritty streets of Detroit to claim the future he was owed. A future that includes the one woman he’s wanted for years—his former best friend Rachel. She’s the reason he went inside and if getting her to do what he wants means buying the building that houses her tattoo studio and using it as leverage, then that’s what he’ll do. Because if there’s one thing he’s learned inside it’s that if you want to win, you have to play dirty.
Rachel Hamilton is a tattoo artist and one hell of a tough girl. Detroit is her home, and she’s determined to make it a better place. But her plans are threatened when her old friend Levi reappears and gives her an ultimatum: she gives herself to him body and soul, or else she and her business are out on the street. Levi’s got no room in his heart for anything but anger and the lust he’s been carrying around for so long. But the only thing stronger than the secrets of their shared past is their fiery attraction to each other.
••••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars---WRONG FOR ME is the second installment in Jackie Ashenden’s contemporary, adult MOTOR CITY ROYALS erotic, romance series focusing on a tight knit group of friends from Detroit. This is former inmate Levi Rush, and tattoo artist Rachel Hamilton’s story line. WRONG FOR ME can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Rachel and Levi) WRONG FOR ME is a friends to lovers/second chance storyline that follows the rekindling friendship between Rachel Hamilton and Levi Rush. Eight years earlier Levi was sent to prison for killing a man who had attacked his best friend Rachel. Fast forward to present day and Levi is an angry ex-con, h*ll bent on reclaiming all that he lost, and what he had lost were the eight years he could have been spending with the woman that he loves. Determined to renew his relationship with Rachel, Levi ‘blackmails’ Rachel for all of the wrong reasons ensuring Rachel remains by his side-one way or another. What ensues is an emotional battle between Levi and Rachel, and Levi’s dogged determination to prove he is worthy.
WRONG FOR ME is a story of family and friendship; heartbreak and love; moving forward and letting go of the past. Levi and Rachel, along with Gideon and Zoe come from the mean streets of Detroit, and it is their backstory and earlier years together that make up the emotional and protective relationships that encompass the series premise. Years of suffering and feeling unworthy find Levi Rush trying to prove he is deserving of the life that has passed him by.
The relationship between Rachel and Levi is one of emotional blackmail. Levi struggles with the loss of the previous eight years but more so with Rachel’s rejection and apparent lack of concern as it pertained to Levi and what happened years before.
All of the previous story line characters including Zee and Tamara (Dirty For Me #1), as well as Zoe James and Gideon Black play secondary and supporting roles. Rachel’s co-worker and fellow tattooist Xavier is ever protective of his friend and colleague. Zoe and Gideon’s story is next in Sin For Me (March 2017).
The world building continues to focus on five friends (Gideon, Zoe, Zee, Levi & Rachel) and the difficulties of growing up poor on the mean streets of Detroit. We are witness to the plans for redevelopment that may or may not have approval from the people who live and struggle to survive.
WRONG FOR ME is a dark and gritty look at endurance; at existing one day at a time; at struggling to succeed in a world that is continually pushing you down. The premise is startling ; the characters are passionate but tragic; the romance is emotional and disconcerting. At times, Levi’s treatment of Rachel and his need to recover years of lost time is misguided, vengeful and questionable. I also had a couple of issues with questions that were never addressed and left unresolved.
Copy supplied by Netgalley
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November 13, 2016
Sexual blackmail and near-obsessive stalker behavior combined with two emotionally stunted people make one seriously unsavory mix with a lot of head shaking moments.
As teenagers, Levi looked out for Rachel until he accidentally killed a drug dealer threatening her. Fresh out of prison, Levi seethes with fury because Rachel never gave a statement in his defense or visited him in prison. So his idea of revenge is to secretly buy the building housing Rachel's tattoo studio and then blackmail her into sleeping with him and moving in with him in a luxury apartment. Levi's reasoning is that he wants to make an unwilling Rachel beg as well as see the life he would have given her if he hadn't gone to prison. First head shake.
Rachel opened her tattoo studio in an abandoned building and never bothered to figure out the real owner of the building. Second head shake. Then instead of telling Levi to shove it, Rachel agrees to his blackmail. Third head shake. After hemming and hawing, Rachel finally admits why she never gave a statement for Levi's defense () and instead let Levi go to prison for EIGHT years. Fourth head shake. And then her reason for not visiting Levi? Fifth head shake moment. My head was really starting to hurt and I was only halfway through the book.
I found it really creepy that Levi would not only force Rachel to sleep with him, but also force her to move into an apartment complete with an art studio for her, defending himself by saying he was showing her the life they could have had together. This isn't a 1980s Harlequin. Sexual blackmail is sex by coercion, which btw, is a crime. Rachel calls him a stalker and Levi doesn't disagree. Big head shake.
Also icky: Rachel confesses to Levi and then BLAMES Levi because he talked all the time about his plans to get them out of their horrible neighborhood and these plans needed money. What? Another big head shake and I'm reaching for the ibuprofen.
There's a whole other plot about Levi's plans for development of his properties even though Rachel and his buddy Gideon are against it. Essentially, Levi is pissed at Rachel and the whole world because everyone went on living while he was in prison and Rachel is stuck because she can't forgive herself for her earlier actions. In the end, Levi makes a Grand Gesture to Rachel but I was so thoroughly disgusted by Rachel and Levi's actions, words, and thoughts that I was just happy to be done with their story.
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As teenagers, Levi looked out for Rachel until he accidentally killed a drug dealer threatening her. Fresh out of prison, Levi seethes with fury because Rachel never gave a statement in his defense or visited him in prison. So his idea of revenge is to secretly buy the building housing Rachel's tattoo studio and then blackmail her into sleeping with him and moving in with him in a luxury apartment. Levi's reasoning is that he wants to make an unwilling Rachel beg as well as see the life he would have given her if he hadn't gone to prison. First head shake.
Rachel opened her tattoo studio in an abandoned building and never bothered to figure out the real owner of the building. Second head shake. Then instead of telling Levi to shove it, Rachel agrees to his blackmail. Third head shake. After hemming and hawing, Rachel finally admits why she never gave a statement for Levi's defense () and instead let Levi go to prison for EIGHT years. Fourth head shake. And then her reason for not visiting Levi? Fifth head shake moment. My head was really starting to hurt and I was only halfway through the book.
I found it really creepy that Levi would not only force Rachel to sleep with him, but also force her to move into an apartment complete with an art studio for her, defending himself by saying he was showing her the life they could have had together. This isn't a 1980s Harlequin. Sexual blackmail is sex by coercion, which btw, is a crime. Rachel calls him a stalker and Levi doesn't disagree. Big head shake.
Also icky: Rachel confesses to Levi and then BLAMES Levi because he talked all the time about his plans to get them out of their horrible neighborhood and these plans needed money. What? Another big head shake and I'm reaching for the ibuprofen.
There's a whole other plot about Levi's plans for development of his properties even though Rachel and his buddy Gideon are against it. Essentially, Levi is pissed at Rachel and the whole world because everyone went on living while he was in prison and Rachel is stuck because she can't forgive herself for her earlier actions. In the end, Levi makes a Grand Gesture to Rachel but I was so thoroughly disgusted by Rachel and Levi's actions, words, and thoughts that I was just happy to be done with their story.
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 21, 2016
ARC received via Netgalley for an honest review
This was my first jackie Ashenden book, so I haven't read the first in this series, but that didn't take away from this book.
I wanted to love this book, I really did. But for me the male lead just took a lot of that love away.
I get he feels wronged. I get he has the right to be pissed. But the way he treats the woman he says he loves, the friends that stood by him. Ugh, he was a complete douchenugget. He needed to build a bridge and get over it a bit!
I am not going to lie, I was going to give up on this book at about 50% through, but I don't like quitting so I kept going.
Levi did get better - slightly - towards the end, and those stalker tendencies did tone down. I think for me though it was a bit too little too late.
Now Rachel, I flipped and flopped with her. I could understand her actions for the most part, doing what he asked, but other times I just wanted her to walk away until he stopped his mantrums.
But this might all just be me. Yes, I did have my issues with this book, but for the most part I did like the storyline, it was more the characters that irked me.
I am interested in going back and reading the first book though.
This was my first jackie Ashenden book, so I haven't read the first in this series, but that didn't take away from this book.
I wanted to love this book, I really did. But for me the male lead just took a lot of that love away.
I get he feels wronged. I get he has the right to be pissed. But the way he treats the woman he says he loves, the friends that stood by him. Ugh, he was a complete douchenugget. He needed to build a bridge and get over it a bit!
I am not going to lie, I was going to give up on this book at about 50% through, but I don't like quitting so I kept going.
Levi did get better - slightly - towards the end, and those stalker tendencies did tone down. I think for me though it was a bit too little too late.
Now Rachel, I flipped and flopped with her. I could understand her actions for the most part, doing what he asked, but other times I just wanted her to walk away until he stopped his mantrums.
But this might all just be me. Yes, I did have my issues with this book, but for the most part I did like the storyline, it was more the characters that irked me.
I am interested in going back and reading the first book though.
September 3, 2016
I've had the hardest time figuring out how to rate and review this book. The story is compelling and hard to put down and yet the first 30% or so is extremely troubling, which is why I keep wavering between 3 stars and 4. Levi and Rachel have a complicated history and once he got out of prison, they had to deal with it. I liked this premise but I was not prepared for Levi's plan to basically blackmail Rachel into having sex with him so she can save her business. While they had feelings for each other before he went to prison (which they didn't act on or tell each other about) and while they're attracted to each other from the moment they see each other again and while Levi clearly still cares about Rachel once you get past his anger, this is in very gray territory, especially given what we learn about Rachel's history and the way she blanks out when she and Levi first start hooking up. So yes, troubling. I didn't entirely understand how forcing Rachel to have a relationship with him, when they basically liked each other, would be punishment for her...except so she could see how his prison time robbed them of years together? I feel like Levi could have "punished" Rachel in other ways. Like, I don't know, talked to her about how angry he was over the ways she let him down.
There were two elements I really loved about this book though. First, it explores gentrification in Detroit in a really nuanced way. I loved hearing about what would be good for the neighborhood and Rachel's dreams for her gallery. This is a conversation cities need to be having so current residents aren't pushed out while problems are addressed. Second, once Levi and Rachel were honest with one another and Levi let go of his anger, I was able to root for their relationship. There was something really beautiful about how vulnerable they could be, once they opened up about their pasts and took a true risk on each other. I also loved how this group of friends looked out for one another and how they overcame rough childhoods and formed their own family. I haven't read the first book in this series but I'd like to read it and the next book as well.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There were two elements I really loved about this book though. First, it explores gentrification in Detroit in a really nuanced way. I loved hearing about what would be good for the neighborhood and Rachel's dreams for her gallery. This is a conversation cities need to be having so current residents aren't pushed out while problems are addressed. Second, once Levi and Rachel were honest with one another and Levi let go of his anger, I was able to root for their relationship. There was something really beautiful about how vulnerable they could be, once they opened up about their pasts and took a true risk on each other. I also loved how this group of friends looked out for one another and how they overcame rough childhoods and formed their own family. I haven't read the first book in this series but I'd like to read it and the next book as well.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2016
2.5 Stars
Not as good one as the first book in the series, some nice elements, some disturbing ones
I really enjoyed the first book (Dirty for Me) in this series and was excited about this one. Sadly, it was not as good as expected it to be. I liked some aspects of the story and the writing felt solid most of the time, but there were a couple of issues which didn't sit well with me.
I found the premise of the story intriguing - Levy is an ex-con trying to rebuild his life and figuring out what exactly happened with Rachel and why she did the things she did. I liked the tension between them and while I understood his anger and his need for revenge, I felt he went overboard with both of them.
His blackmail, forcing Rachel into a relationship, if you can call it that, bordered on non-consent for me and even if being together was what they wanted, they way this happened (for most part of the story), it still made me uncomfortable. It was a weird kind of revenge, hurting them both. On the one hand, I can't accept the deal he made with her and seemed very similar to a previous arrangement she had with another man. On the other hand, he loved her (always had), wanted to have a real relationship with her, yet he mostly hurt and humiliated her before turning all his emotions around and making it all about love and a common future.
I must say that the non-romance aspects of the story worked better for me. Levy's relations with his friends, his ambition to make something of himself, to rebuild his life felt real and I had no trouble relating to it. The gentrification of Detroit was also explored in a sympathetic way.
In short, I have mixed feelings about the romance in this story - some of it felt real, some of it was forced, and there were elements in it that made m,e downright uncomfortable. I don't regret reading this book, but I'm not sure I can recommend it.
Not as good one as the first book in the series, some nice elements, some disturbing ones
I really enjoyed the first book (Dirty for Me) in this series and was excited about this one. Sadly, it was not as good as expected it to be. I liked some aspects of the story and the writing felt solid most of the time, but there were a couple of issues which didn't sit well with me.
I found the premise of the story intriguing - Levy is an ex-con trying to rebuild his life and figuring out what exactly happened with Rachel and why she did the things she did. I liked the tension between them and while I understood his anger and his need for revenge, I felt he went overboard with both of them.
His blackmail, forcing Rachel into a relationship, if you can call it that, bordered on non-consent for me and even if being together was what they wanted, they way this happened (for most part of the story), it still made me uncomfortable. It was a weird kind of revenge, hurting them both. On the one hand, I can't accept the deal he made with her and seemed very similar to a previous arrangement she had with another man. On the other hand, he loved her (always had), wanted to have a real relationship with her, yet he mostly hurt and humiliated her before turning all his emotions around and making it all about love and a common future.
I must say that the non-romance aspects of the story worked better for me. Levy's relations with his friends, his ambition to make something of himself, to rebuild his life felt real and I had no trouble relating to it. The gentrification of Detroit was also explored in a sympathetic way.
In short, I have mixed feelings about the romance in this story - some of it felt real, some of it was forced, and there were elements in it that made m,e downright uncomfortable. I don't regret reading this book, but I'm not sure I can recommend it.
November 17, 2016
This is book 2 in the Motor City Royals series and wow what another fabulous story so emotional and moving as we get to know Levi Rush and he is strong and vulnerable you see Levi has been in jail for eight years and now he is home in the fold of his "family" his best friends and all he wants to do is make things better for them and get back to who he was or who he thinks he was.
Rachel Hamilton has changed a lot in the eight years that her best friend has been away and she has not seen him at all although she has never forgotten him, Rachel feels guilt and shame about what had happened but has made a good life for herself with her tattoo parlour and her plans for the town of Royal. Rachel is a gifted artist and has plans to help the kids at the outreach centre but now Levi is back he has other plans this is going to be a big upheaval for Rachel in so many ways.
Levi is back and determined to have Rachel you see he always had plans for them together but things changed when he went away and he became a different person although that underlying passion of helping people can never be taken from him. Levi has big plans for Royal and Rachel but they are met with negativity by his friends and this takes a lot for Levi to get around, but the sexual sensual pull between him and Rachel which has always been there is way to strong to deny for long.
This is another powerfully emotional story from the pen of MS Ashenden one that you will not want to miss truly Levi comes home with such a chip on his shoulder and a vulnerability that plays havoc with him but when Rachel and him finally open up with secrets and he really listens to their "family" and gets back to being himself then this path to a beautiful HEA will really have you smiling with tears. I loved it from page one and can highly recommend it to anyone who loves a romance that ticks all of the boxes.
Rachel Hamilton has changed a lot in the eight years that her best friend has been away and she has not seen him at all although she has never forgotten him, Rachel feels guilt and shame about what had happened but has made a good life for herself with her tattoo parlour and her plans for the town of Royal. Rachel is a gifted artist and has plans to help the kids at the outreach centre but now Levi is back he has other plans this is going to be a big upheaval for Rachel in so many ways.
Levi is back and determined to have Rachel you see he always had plans for them together but things changed when he went away and he became a different person although that underlying passion of helping people can never be taken from him. Levi has big plans for Royal and Rachel but they are met with negativity by his friends and this takes a lot for Levi to get around, but the sexual sensual pull between him and Rachel which has always been there is way to strong to deny for long.
This is another powerfully emotional story from the pen of MS Ashenden one that you will not want to miss truly Levi comes home with such a chip on his shoulder and a vulnerability that plays havoc with him but when Rachel and him finally open up with secrets and he really listens to their "family" and gets back to being himself then this path to a beautiful HEA will really have you smiling with tears. I loved it from page one and can highly recommend it to anyone who loves a romance that ticks all of the boxes.
December 3, 2016
Wrong for Me is the second book in Jackie Ashenden's Motor City Royals Series. After reading the first book in thes series, Dirty for Me, I couldn't wait to dive into Rachel and Levi's story in Wrong for Me. Rachel is tough as nails, at least on the surface. She's a tattoo artist and has her own shop, but she's also an artist who when you get past her hard outer shell, is quite the caring and giving person. That's not to say she doesn't have her own tattered past, one that is filled with regrets, especially when it comes to Levi Rush, the man who spent 8 years in prison, the boy who used to be her very best friend, a friend that blames herself for his incarceration.....and Levi blames her for that as well.
Levi is now out of prison, he's a different person, understandably, but he also has an agendand that agenda involves Rachel. Levi hasn't wasted his time in prison. It may have made him hard, but it also made him smart, and he's now quite the entrepreneaur. He wants to hate Rachel, but even though he really tries, he just can't, causing all his years of planning to somehow become skewed.
Wrong for Me is a great second-chance romance as well as a wonderful second installment in the Motor City Royals Series. I enjoyed getting to know Levi and Rachel, and comed to love them both, because of and inspite of all their flaws. I also enjoyed the secondary characters, many of whom we met and became attached to in Dirty for Me, the first book in the series. Jackie Ashenden has also set the stage for Sin for Me, the next book, and I must say I am really looking forward to reading Zoe and Gideon's story. Overall, Wrong for Me is a great story and one contemporary romance fans would enjoy.
Levi is now out of prison, he's a different person, understandably, but he also has an agendand that agenda involves Rachel. Levi hasn't wasted his time in prison. It may have made him hard, but it also made him smart, and he's now quite the entrepreneaur. He wants to hate Rachel, but even though he really tries, he just can't, causing all his years of planning to somehow become skewed.
Wrong for Me is a great second-chance romance as well as a wonderful second installment in the Motor City Royals Series. I enjoyed getting to know Levi and Rachel, and comed to love them both, because of and inspite of all their flaws. I also enjoyed the secondary characters, many of whom we met and became attached to in Dirty for Me, the first book in the series. Jackie Ashenden has also set the stage for Sin for Me, the next book, and I must say I am really looking forward to reading Zoe and Gideon's story. Overall, Wrong for Me is a great story and one contemporary romance fans would enjoy.
July 24, 2016
**** ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ****
Warning: This review/rating is based on my feelings, thoughts, likes and dislikes. You should read the book to form your own opinion/thoughts. Read on!
Rating: 3.5 stars
Cover: I like it
Cliffhanger: No
This was a very gray story, it wasn't completely dark nor completely light. Levi just got released from jail where he was 8 years and he is mad, like really mad. Rachel was a key witness and could have at least reduce the amount of years Levi was in jail but instead she ran, and didn't even went to visit him.
Now he is back and he wants revenge, wants what he was supposed to get if he hadn't been in jail, wants his life back, but he is changed man, a very hard changed man and he wants Rachel to hurt, to feel at least an inkling of what he felt not only for being inside but from her not even seeing him.
So, he creates this show of fantasy and it hurts, it hurt me watching him trying to grasp that dream again. Rachel had her reasons, but she should have been honest with him, not let him think she was just a heartless b17ch.
Levi re-learns what is like to have his family back, his freedom and most of all what is like to love and trust again. I liked how the story flowed, how both of them redeem themselves and were able to let down their guards enough time to let the light in.
Good book, good story...
Warning: This review/rating is based on my feelings, thoughts, likes and dislikes. You should read the book to form your own opinion/thoughts. Read on!
Rating: 3.5 stars
Cover: I like it
Cliffhanger: No
This was a very gray story, it wasn't completely dark nor completely light. Levi just got released from jail where he was 8 years and he is mad, like really mad. Rachel was a key witness and could have at least reduce the amount of years Levi was in jail but instead she ran, and didn't even went to visit him.
Now he is back and he wants revenge, wants what he was supposed to get if he hadn't been in jail, wants his life back, but he is changed man, a very hard changed man and he wants Rachel to hurt, to feel at least an inkling of what he felt not only for being inside but from her not even seeing him.
So, he creates this show of fantasy and it hurts, it hurt me watching him trying to grasp that dream again. Rachel had her reasons, but she should have been honest with him, not let him think she was just a heartless b17ch.
Levi re-learns what is like to have his family back, his freedom and most of all what is like to love and trust again. I liked how the story flowed, how both of them redeem themselves and were able to let down their guards enough time to let the light in.
Good book, good story...
August 19, 2016
We finally get Levi & Rachel's story!!!!
As the blurb implies, this book is very dark. Having served 8 years in prison for murder, in part because of Rachel, Levi has finally returned home. However he is not the man that Rachel considered her best friend and she isn't the only one to notice the change in Levi. Levi is angry at everyone and everything, but especially Rachel. He blames her for sending him to prison but also for not visiting him in the 8 years he was gone.
In those 8 years, Levi came up with the perfect way to get back at Rachel. He would blackmail her to into the life that he felt she owed him. This is where the story gets dark and where some readers may have issues with it. There is no rape; Rachel consents to everything that Levi does to her however initially it's only because she was being blackmailed by him. I think if these two didn't have such a history together that this would have bothered me.
It takes a great writer to move a character that the readers hate with a passion in the beginning of the book to one that the readers can really sympathize with. By the end of the book, you understand why Levi felt so strongly about the neighborhood and why he was pushing for everything that he wanted. While I still thought his blackmailing of Rachel was really harsh I could see how out of anger he felt she owed him that.
I CANNOT wait to reach Gideon and Zoe's story!!!!!!!!! Dying to know what is going through his head and what Zoe's story is.
** ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review **
As the blurb implies, this book is very dark. Having served 8 years in prison for murder, in part because of Rachel, Levi has finally returned home. However he is not the man that Rachel considered her best friend and she isn't the only one to notice the change in Levi. Levi is angry at everyone and everything, but especially Rachel. He blames her for sending him to prison but also for not visiting him in the 8 years he was gone.
In those 8 years, Levi came up with the perfect way to get back at Rachel. He would blackmail her to into the life that he felt she owed him. This is where the story gets dark and where some readers may have issues with it. There is no rape; Rachel consents to everything that Levi does to her however initially it's only because she was being blackmailed by him. I think if these two didn't have such a history together that this would have bothered me.
It takes a great writer to move a character that the readers hate with a passion in the beginning of the book to one that the readers can really sympathize with. By the end of the book, you understand why Levi felt so strongly about the neighborhood and why he was pushing for everything that he wanted. While I still thought his blackmailing of Rachel was really harsh I could see how out of anger he felt she owed him that.
I CANNOT wait to reach Gideon and Zoe's story!!!!!!!!! Dying to know what is going through his head and what Zoe's story is.
** ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review **
November 29, 2016
My Review:
This story was so good...and heartbreaking, but that made it a highly emotional read which I happen to love.
Eight years ago, Rachel and Levi were best friends. They both also harbored crushes for the other person, but Rachel was still too young for Levi to act on anything. And then he protected her...a single punch against a man who was harassing her...the man fell wrong, hit his head, and died. Levi went to prison for 8 years for manslaughter. He is not the same kid that he was before. To make things worse, Rachel stayed completely away for all those eight years. Levi can't forgive that...and he's had 8 years to let that anger fester. Now he's back and he wants his pound of flesh.
To say Rachel and Levi's story is heartbreaking is putting it mildly. He's so angry and she's so guilty and they've both lost so, so much. I loved getting to read their story and watch them find their way through their issues. But this book is about so much more than just this couple and their relationship. It's about the dark side of Detroit's economy and those surviving the neighborhoods like Royal Road.
I loved everything about this book. I loved the idea of what Rachel has created with her tattoo shop and how she's embraced her art, her way. There were so many gorgeous little aspects to the story like that which made this book for me. I loved the book. Now I need to go back and read the first from the series and am anxiously awaiting for the third that's coming.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This story was so good...and heartbreaking, but that made it a highly emotional read which I happen to love.
Eight years ago, Rachel and Levi were best friends. They both also harbored crushes for the other person, but Rachel was still too young for Levi to act on anything. And then he protected her...a single punch against a man who was harassing her...the man fell wrong, hit his head, and died. Levi went to prison for 8 years for manslaughter. He is not the same kid that he was before. To make things worse, Rachel stayed completely away for all those eight years. Levi can't forgive that...and he's had 8 years to let that anger fester. Now he's back and he wants his pound of flesh.
To say Rachel and Levi's story is heartbreaking is putting it mildly. He's so angry and she's so guilty and they've both lost so, so much. I loved getting to read their story and watch them find their way through their issues. But this book is about so much more than just this couple and their relationship. It's about the dark side of Detroit's economy and those surviving the neighborhoods like Royal Road.
I loved everything about this book. I loved the idea of what Rachel has created with her tattoo shop and how she's embraced her art, her way. There were so many gorgeous little aspects to the story like that which made this book for me. I loved the book. Now I need to go back and read the first from the series and am anxiously awaiting for the third that's coming.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
February 5, 2017
This is a very powerful story about a man Levi Rush, coming back to the neighborhood he left eight years ago to do a prison sentence. His goal is to change the neighborhood form the way he remembered it from when he was living there. His second goal is to make the life for Rachel Hamilton as painful as much as it was for the last eight years. He was protecting her the night he killed a man and when it came time for court she never showed up. Her reasons are explained along with why she was never able to bring herself to visit him in prison. He wants to blame her and other people around him for the problems that he had, and is still having. When she takes responsibility for her part he is still carrying around a lot of anger that is actually destroying him, and all of the good he thinks he is wanting to do. The love he profess for her is destroyed by his anger towards himself and the neighborhood that he has been gone from for eight years. For him to see this it takes the love of Rachel to walk away from him this time because he is blinded by hate, and anger. He must overcome and accept his roll for his part in his own actions for going to prison. The author brings this out towards the end which really makes for a very powerful story about forgiveness of self, and then moving on to the people close to him. A very good and powerful story, with excellent characters. I got this book from netgalley. I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
November 29, 2016
At the end of the first book in the series, Dirty for Me, Ashenden left us with some insight into Levi and Rachel’s reunion. We knew immediately it wouldn’t be an easy one. The scenario of Levi getting Rachel to move in with him, as retribution for not speaking up when he was arrested and for not visiting the entire time he was in prison, was almost creepy. The fact that Rachel is willing, if reluctant to admit it to herself, was an important distinction and helped me look past the scenario.
The interaction between the two was hot and I quickly began hoping they’d get it together. Levi has a lot of anger and issues to deal with which to me was very realistic. Rachel is good at accepting him and his problems. His determination to change the situation in their home neighborhood drives a wedge between Levi and everyone in his life creating a good, tension filled story line. Rachel needs Levi to realize why his plans aren’t in the community’s best interest or in hers. I really enjoyed watching Levi evolve from angry felon to caring boyfriend and friend. It was a hard road and looked hopeless at times but he finally comes around.
I always enjoy Ashenden’s books and look forward to the next.
Reviewed for The Jeep Diva.
The interaction between the two was hot and I quickly began hoping they’d get it together. Levi has a lot of anger and issues to deal with which to me was very realistic. Rachel is good at accepting him and his problems. His determination to change the situation in their home neighborhood drives a wedge between Levi and everyone in his life creating a good, tension filled story line. Rachel needs Levi to realize why his plans aren’t in the community’s best interest or in hers. I really enjoyed watching Levi evolve from angry felon to caring boyfriend and friend. It was a hard road and looked hopeless at times but he finally comes around.
I always enjoy Ashenden’s books and look forward to the next.
Reviewed for The Jeep Diva.
September 7, 2016
Thanks to net galley.com for the ARC.
The character development in this book is outstanding. The description of Rachel's roses tattoo sounds beautiful and the tattoo shop she started in Royal is a great artistic outlet for her. There are some dark parts to this book but that is expected since Livi was in prison for 8 years. He dominating personality in the beginning of this book and the way he treated everyone was awful but as the book went on he seemed to find his emotions that were put away for the past 8 years. The honest conversation that happen in the tattoo shop between Livi and Rachel is a real turning point in this book. Their past really sucked but it is good to see that their future is looking a lot more positive.
The character development in this book is outstanding. The description of Rachel's roses tattoo sounds beautiful and the tattoo shop she started in Royal is a great artistic outlet for her. There are some dark parts to this book but that is expected since Livi was in prison for 8 years. He dominating personality in the beginning of this book and the way he treated everyone was awful but as the book went on he seemed to find his emotions that were put away for the past 8 years. The honest conversation that happen in the tattoo shop between Livi and Rachel is a real turning point in this book. Their past really sucked but it is good to see that their future is looking a lot more positive.
August 18, 2016
This review is based on an ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
3.5
I saw words like intense and dark to describe this book. Both are very apt descriptions of this contemporary romance. I seldom noticed that this was part of a series. Kudos to the author for that. This can definitely be read as a standalone.
3.5
I saw words like intense and dark to describe this book. Both are very apt descriptions of this contemporary romance. I seldom noticed that this was part of a series. Kudos to the author for that. This can definitely be read as a standalone.
August 27, 2016
ARC from NetGalley for review
This book start off with knowing a little bit about Rachel and Levi for the last book in the series. Rachel is the tough take on Sh** kinda girl. Levi the guy who would do anything to protect Rachel. It was pretty intense chemistry between the couple. Great build up to the between the two, to finally get them together.
This book start off with knowing a little bit about Rachel and Levi for the last book in the series. Rachel is the tough take on Sh** kinda girl. Levi the guy who would do anything to protect Rachel. It was pretty intense chemistry between the couple. Great build up to the between the two, to finally get them together.
May 31, 2022
I messed up by reading this book first before the f
1st book so there were people mentioned that i didn’t find out there back story till after started the 1st book of this series. The book was still good and it didn’t have enough details from the 1st book that i couldn’t figure things out.
The book starts with the main female character, Rachel, really nervous about the main male character, Leo, getting out a jail and how he will react to her because she never went to see him on jail even though she’s the reason he is in there. Well Leo has this whole plan that he started when he was locked up on how he plans to make her life miserable. His plan to make her move in and become his everything that he wanted before he went into prison. He never let it be known that he has feelings and she never let it be known. They both have their guards up now and refuse to friends even though Leo’s whole plan is to have this “fake” happy ever after with her. Well he makes her move in and tells her he’s bought all these building to redevelop to make the town better and one of them is her building with her tattoo business in it. Well he thinks he is doing the town good so when she doesn’t agree he tosses her out. Well he realizes fairly quickly how much he messed up and ends up giving her all the buildings to do with what she wants.
1st book so there were people mentioned that i didn’t find out there back story till after started the 1st book of this series. The book was still good and it didn’t have enough details from the 1st book that i couldn’t figure things out.
The book starts with the main female character, Rachel, really nervous about the main male character, Leo, getting out a jail and how he will react to her because she never went to see him on jail even though she’s the reason he is in there. Well Leo has this whole plan that he started when he was locked up on how he plans to make her life miserable. His plan to make her move in and become his everything that he wanted before he went into prison. He never let it be known that he has feelings and she never let it be known. They both have their guards up now and refuse to friends even though Leo’s whole plan is to have this “fake” happy ever after with her. Well he makes her move in and tells her he’s bought all these building to redevelop to make the town better and one of them is her building with her tattoo business in it. Well he thinks he is doing the town good so when she doesn’t agree he tosses her out. Well he realizes fairly quickly how much he messed up and ends up giving her all the buildings to do with what she wants.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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