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The Benedict Brothers #3
Exposed Desire
**2024 National Indie Excellence Award Finalist - Romance**
Kipling and Alyssa join together to fight for the future one man is determined they won’t live to see…
Kipling Benedict has no plans to fall in love. As the oldest Benedict brother he has dedicated his life to running Benedict Industries. Love is for his younger brothers, not for him. Or at least that’s what he keeps telling himself. But after months of verbal sparring with Charleston police officer, Alyssa Adams, he finds it harder and harder to believe that particular lie.
Alyssa Adams doesn’t have room in her life for a man, especially one as conceited and self-serving as Kipling Benedict. But when her investigation into Benedict Industries uncovers a connection to the long ago unsolved murder of her sister, Alyssa finds herself needing Kipling’s help. As they grow closer, she starts to see the real man under the facade Kipling shows the world.
However, instead of finding answers, Kipling and Alyssa only create more questions. Working together has made them certain of two things, one, they can no longer ignore the chemistry between them, and two, someone wants them dead.
With all the long buried secrets finally brought to light, Kipling and Alyssa prepare to fight the ultimate evil. But even if they succeed, they aren’t sure the Benedict family can survive.
Success. Wealth. Power.
Franklin Benedict left his three sons a legacy and an empire, and the brothers are now at the helm of one the most powerful shipping corporations in the world. Though they were raised as southern gentlemen, they have no problem living up to the playboy label they’ve been given.
Secrets. Lies. Betrayal.
But their father left behind something else. Something he thought long buried in the dark corners and the ever churning tide of the Charleston low country. And that something has the potential to tear apart the brothers and the women they’ve come to love, if it doesn’t destroy them all first.
Originally published as The Sons of Broad Series, all books have been rewritten and reedited. Each book tells the story of one brother. They can be read as standalones (with HEA) but the overall mystery won’t be solved until Book 3.
Book EXPOSED DESIRE (Originally titled BROKEN PROMISE)
Kipling and Alyssa join together to fight for the future one man is determined they won’t live to see…
Kipling Benedict has no plans to fall in love. As the oldest Benedict brother he has dedicated his life to running Benedict Industries. Love is for his younger brothers, not for him. Or at least that’s what he keeps telling himself. But after months of verbal sparring with Charleston police officer, Alyssa Adams, he finds it harder and harder to believe that particular lie.
Alyssa Adams doesn’t have room in her life for a man, especially one as conceited and self-serving as Kipling Benedict. But when her investigation into Benedict Industries uncovers a connection to the long ago unsolved murder of her sister, Alyssa finds herself needing Kipling’s help. As they grow closer, she starts to see the real man under the facade Kipling shows the world.
However, instead of finding answers, Kipling and Alyssa only create more questions. Working together has made them certain of two things, one, they can no longer ignore the chemistry between them, and two, someone wants them dead.
With all the long buried secrets finally brought to light, Kipling and Alyssa prepare to fight the ultimate evil. But even if they succeed, they aren’t sure the Benedict family can survive.
Success. Wealth. Power.
Franklin Benedict left his three sons a legacy and an empire, and the brothers are now at the helm of one the most powerful shipping corporations in the world. Though they were raised as southern gentlemen, they have no problem living up to the playboy label they’ve been given.
Secrets. Lies. Betrayal.
But their father left behind something else. Something he thought long buried in the dark corners and the ever churning tide of the Charleston low country. And that something has the potential to tear apart the brothers and the women they’ve come to love, if it doesn’t destroy them all first.
Originally published as The Sons of Broad Series, all books have been rewritten and reedited. Each book tells the story of one brother. They can be read as standalones (with HEA) but the overall mystery won’t be solved until Book 3.
Book EXPOSED DESIRE (Originally titled BROKEN PROMISE)
- GenresSuspense
234 pages, Paperback
Published October 24, 2023
About the author
Tara Sue Me
88 books2,865 followersNEW YORK TIMES/USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR
Even though she graduated with a degree in science, Tara knew she’d never be happy doing anything other than writing. Specifically, writing love stories.
She started with a racy BDSM story and found she was not quite prepared for the unforeseen impact it would have. Nonetheless, she continued and The Submissive Series novels would go on to be both New York Times and USA Today Bestsellers. One of those, THE MASTER, was a 2017 RITA finalist for Best Erotic Romance.
Now she is focusing on new contemporary romances that allow her the freedom to write and publish on her own schedule.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 9, 2023
and yet another benedict brothers book that i ate up. i'm so sad this series has come to an end!
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2023
***ARC Provided by the Publisher via NetGalley***
1.5 Stars
I struggled to connect with the characters in this one and I'm not sure I ever really felt any connection between them.
The writing wasn't bad and I was able to follow it but the character development was lacking for me.
I'm unable to recommend this title
1.5 Stars
I struggled to connect with the characters in this one and I'm not sure I ever really felt any connection between them.
The writing wasn't bad and I was able to follow it but the character development was lacking for me.
I'm unable to recommend this title
October 23, 2023
"Exposed Desire," the third installment in Tara Sue Me's The Benedict Brothers series, is a sizzling and suspenseful romance that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and intrigue. Kipling Benedict, the oldest of the Benedict brothers, is a character who has sworn off love in favor of dedicating his life to running Benedict Industries. Love, he insists, is for his younger siblings. However, as he engages in verbal sparring with Charleston police officer Alyssa Adams, it becomes increasingly clear that Kipling's resolve may not hold.
Alyssa Adams, on the other hand, is a strong and independent woman who has little patience for someone like Kipling, who appears to be conceited and self-serving. Their dynamic is charged with tension, but when Alyssa's investigation into Benedict Industries reveals a connection to her sister's long-unsolved murder, she finds herself reluctantly needing Kipling's assistance. As they work together, she begins to see the genuine man behind the façade that Kipling presents to the world.
Tara Sue Me weaves together a tale of desire and intrigue, where sparks fly between Kipling and Alyssa, but the mysteries and secrets of their shared history also heat up. The chemistry between the two leads is electric and impossible to ignore, making their burgeoning relationship all the more enthralling.
As the plot unfolds, Kipling and Alyssa find themselves confronting their attraction in addition to a web of secrets and danger that threatens their lives. The book keeps readers on their toes, making it impossible to put down.
The underlying mystery that weaves throughout the series adds depth and intrigue to the romance, creating a sense of anticipation that keeps readers engaged. Tara Sue Me's writing is evocative, and her storytelling ability shines through in "Exposed Desire."
This book is not only a steamy love story but also a thrilling mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end. Tara Sue Me has delivered a captivating installment in The Benedict Brothers series that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the saga.
"Tara Sue Me weaves a tantalizing mosaic of desire and mystery in 'Exposed Desire.' A page-turner that ignites your heart and your curiosity." — A seductive journey into love and intrigue.
"In Kipling and Alyssa, Tara Sue Me gives us a passionate love story set against a backdrop of suspense. 'Exposed Desire' will keep you on the edge of your seat and warm your heart." — A love story that sizzles with intrigue.
"With 'Exposed Desire,' Tara Sue Me displays her mastery in creating characters you can't help but fall for. The chemistry between Kipling and Alyssa is a flame you won't forget." — A sizzling romance that lingers in your heart.
"Alyssa and Kipling's verbal sparring lights up the pages, but it's the mysteries of the Benedict family that will keep you coming back for more. 'Exposed Desire' is a tantalizing blend of passion and suspense." — A fiery romance and an enigmatic puzzle.
"Tara Sue Me crafts a love story that's as heart-pounding as it is heartwarming. 'Exposed Desire' is a mesmerizing journey into the depths of desire and the secrets that bind us." — A heart-pounding journey into passion and mystery.
"Kipling and Alyssa's love story is smoldering and thrilling, while the overarching mystery keeps you hooked. Tara Sue Me's 'Exposed Desire' is an addictive and unforgettable tale of love and intrigue." — A love story you won't forget, a mystery you can't put down.
"With her signature style, Tara Sue Me delivers a compelling blend of romance and suspense in 'Exposed Desire.' Kipling and Alyssa's story is a captivating rollercoaster ride that leaves you breathless and yearning for more." — A rollercoaster of love and suspense.
"Tara Sue Me's 'Exposed Desire' is an evocative journey into the power of attraction and the allure of the unknown. Prepare to be captivated, charmed, and thoroughly entertained." — An evocative journey into love and the enigmatic.
Alyssa Adams, on the other hand, is a strong and independent woman who has little patience for someone like Kipling, who appears to be conceited and self-serving. Their dynamic is charged with tension, but when Alyssa's investigation into Benedict Industries reveals a connection to her sister's long-unsolved murder, she finds herself reluctantly needing Kipling's assistance. As they work together, she begins to see the genuine man behind the façade that Kipling presents to the world.
Tara Sue Me weaves together a tale of desire and intrigue, where sparks fly between Kipling and Alyssa, but the mysteries and secrets of their shared history also heat up. The chemistry between the two leads is electric and impossible to ignore, making their burgeoning relationship all the more enthralling.
As the plot unfolds, Kipling and Alyssa find themselves confronting their attraction in addition to a web of secrets and danger that threatens their lives. The book keeps readers on their toes, making it impossible to put down.
The underlying mystery that weaves throughout the series adds depth and intrigue to the romance, creating a sense of anticipation that keeps readers engaged. Tara Sue Me's writing is evocative, and her storytelling ability shines through in "Exposed Desire."
This book is not only a steamy love story but also a thrilling mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end. Tara Sue Me has delivered a captivating installment in The Benedict Brothers series that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the saga.
"Tara Sue Me weaves a tantalizing mosaic of desire and mystery in 'Exposed Desire.' A page-turner that ignites your heart and your curiosity." — A seductive journey into love and intrigue.
"In Kipling and Alyssa, Tara Sue Me gives us a passionate love story set against a backdrop of suspense. 'Exposed Desire' will keep you on the edge of your seat and warm your heart." — A love story that sizzles with intrigue.
"With 'Exposed Desire,' Tara Sue Me displays her mastery in creating characters you can't help but fall for. The chemistry between Kipling and Alyssa is a flame you won't forget." — A sizzling romance that lingers in your heart.
"Alyssa and Kipling's verbal sparring lights up the pages, but it's the mysteries of the Benedict family that will keep you coming back for more. 'Exposed Desire' is a tantalizing blend of passion and suspense." — A fiery romance and an enigmatic puzzle.
"Tara Sue Me crafts a love story that's as heart-pounding as it is heartwarming. 'Exposed Desire' is a mesmerizing journey into the depths of desire and the secrets that bind us." — A heart-pounding journey into passion and mystery.
"Kipling and Alyssa's love story is smoldering and thrilling, while the overarching mystery keeps you hooked. Tara Sue Me's 'Exposed Desire' is an addictive and unforgettable tale of love and intrigue." — A love story you won't forget, a mystery you can't put down.
"With her signature style, Tara Sue Me delivers a compelling blend of romance and suspense in 'Exposed Desire.' Kipling and Alyssa's story is a captivating rollercoaster ride that leaves you breathless and yearning for more." — A rollercoaster of love and suspense.
"Tara Sue Me's 'Exposed Desire' is an evocative journey into the power of attraction and the allure of the unknown. Prepare to be captivated, charmed, and thoroughly entertained." — An evocative journey into love and the enigmatic.
October 20, 2023
This is book three in The Benedict Brother’s series and it is Kipling and Alyssa’s story and omg it is definitely a must read. Kipling and Alyssa had instant attraction right from the beginning and the chemistry between them is strong, hot and intense but with Alyssa being part of the police force and had already arrested Kipling once and Kipling being burnt in college when the woman he fell for only wanted him for his name, wealth and everything that went along with his name and vowing to never put himself in that position ever again anything between Kipling and Alyssa would never come to anything other than scratching that itch. When evidence came to light so did the danger and Kipling and Alyssa will have to work and stay together if they are to have any chance of getting out alive. The net is closing in making the person responsible for all the killings to get even more manic, desperate and determined to take out everyone that is in the way so now more than ever Kipling and Alyssa need a escape plan that works but when the person responsible underestimated just how strong and determined Kipling and Alyssa was to not only take him down but also make him pay for everything that he has done and the lives that he had taken and then they can all live the lives the way that they should have before all this started. Wow just Wow this series just got better and better with each book that is written and I couldn’t put this book down as it was action packed and addictive. The twists and turns kept coming at a break neck speed and had you on the edge of your seat while turning the pages and I read it in one sitting and I can’t wait to see what this author writes next and I will be there ready to read it.
October 23, 2023
I haven’t read anything else by this author and I really enjoyed this book. Officer Alyssa Adams’ sister was murdered ten years ago, and she has never stopped looking for her killer. Attending the renewal vows of her friend, Bea, she runs into her nemesis Kipling Benedict. Even though she arrested him once, he and his mega wealthy family have a way around the law. Kipling is attracted to her, but as the oldest of the three brothers, his concentration is on the family shipping business. When he learns that he has a half-sister, he is determined to find her. Jade, the sister, has been kidnapped and is being held prisoner, but why? His father’s past will soon come back to haunt the family as someone has decided they all need to pay, but for what? Alyssa begins to receive threats and she and Kipling are soon on the run. The attraction between them flares out of control as they race to stay alive, find his sister and capture the killer. When they find Jade, what other secrets will they uncover? An exciting story through to the very end. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
November 15, 2024
Kipling and Alyssa are such an unlikely coupling!
This is last book of this wonderful series continuing from the revelation the brothers had at the end of the last book. What a wonderful series this is! I recommend it to all. Kipling is the oldest Benedict Brother. He literally took over Benedict Enterprises when their father died, although the two other brothers head up their own divisions. Alyssa is an investigator who has been looking into all the mysteries surrounding the three brothers and their loved ones. Kipling and Alyssa work together to solve them. They’ve also been attracted to each other since they first saw each other regardless of their hesitations because of their pasts. The conclusion finds all mysteries solved with tons of action in the process, with finally steam and love on the side.
This is last book of this wonderful series continuing from the revelation the brothers had at the end of the last book. What a wonderful series this is! I recommend it to all. Kipling is the oldest Benedict Brother. He literally took over Benedict Enterprises when their father died, although the two other brothers head up their own divisions. Alyssa is an investigator who has been looking into all the mysteries surrounding the three brothers and their loved ones. Kipling and Alyssa work together to solve them. They’ve also been attracted to each other since they first saw each other regardless of their hesitations because of their pasts. The conclusion finds all mysteries solved with tons of action in the process, with finally steam and love on the side.
October 27, 2023
This thriller has a kidnapping, family secrets, a black rose, and an unsolved murder. A spicy romance that is told in dual POV, with plenty of on-the-edge-of-your-seat moments leaving you reading until the very last page.
What will happen when a current investigations opens up an old case, are they connected? Who can be trusted? Who will fall victim and who will uncover layers of deception?
If you like your romantic suspense and a scosh of spice ... dive in. Note, as this is part of a series I only read the latest book and found I could understand the plot arc but if given the options, read the series in order for full enjoyment, excitement, and suspense!
I received an advance reader copy for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
What will happen when a current investigations opens up an old case, are they connected? Who can be trusted? Who will fall victim and who will uncover layers of deception?
If you like your romantic suspense and a scosh of spice ... dive in. Note, as this is part of a series I only read the latest book and found I could understand the plot arc but if given the options, read the series in order for full enjoyment, excitement, and suspense!
I received an advance reader copy for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 31, 2023
Exposed Desire was quite a wrap-up to the Benedict Brothers series. We finally get all the answers to our myriad of questions. A decades old revenge plot, the family connection and a heinous murdering kidnapper certainly make this a riveting read. Kipling and Alyssa quit dancing, quit literally, areound around their attraction. She opens up to him and that gives him the ammunition he needs to keep her closer and forge a relationship. Things get dicey a time or two and thet get help from a very unexpected quarter. Therexs an HEA for forr the brothers and their newfound family.
October 18, 2023
Exposed Desire is the final book in the The Benedict Brothers trilogy. These books need to be read in order because the underlying mystery runs through them all and is solved in Kipling's story. It's entertaining and fast-paced, with some surprising twists and turns and a well-deserved happy ending.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
October 23, 2023
I thought that this was a great story and it had a really good storyline.
I really enjoyed getting to know the different characters and their different personalities.
This was a great continuation from the second book in the series.
The book had everything – action, explanations, revelations, kidnapping, family ties, a wedding and babies – phew! Plenty to keep you engaged and entertained
It is 4 stars from me for this one, highly recommended!
I really enjoyed getting to know the different characters and their different personalities.
This was a great continuation from the second book in the series.
The book had everything – action, explanations, revelations, kidnapping, family ties, a wedding and babies – phew! Plenty to keep you engaged and entertained
It is 4 stars from me for this one, highly recommended!
November 3, 2023
It was a worthy ending for the Benedict brothers series. Kipling and Alyssa could finally be more than some witty banter. Kipling surprised me with his thoughtfulness and caring personality. Some of the secrets revealed were surprising and finally there was more insight into the past. If only we could have a look into Keaton and Tilly’s and Knox and Bea’s futures, not just Kipling and Alyssa’s and Jade’s.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy of the book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a copy of the book.
December 10, 2023
Exposed Desire by Tara Sue Me is book 3 in The Benedict Brothers Series. This is the story of Kipling Benedict and Alyssa Adams. Alyssa is a police officer who can't stand people like Kipling so they are always at each other throats. But when a lead leads her to information about her sister's murder she will need Kipling. Kipling is a workaholic who sole focus is running the Benedict Industries. But the more he spars with Alyssa that direction is changing.
September 23, 2023
Tara Sue Me never disappoints me with her books. This one of course kept me reading. I just couldn’t put it down. I had to know what was going to happen with Kipling and Alyssa. This series was absolutely amazing.
May 22, 2024
read all three
Now I wish Tara would write the whole story of Ruth from the fun little snippet at the end of Exposed Desire. The characters in her books are well developed and the plots are very plausible and readable.
Now I wish Tara would write the whole story of Ruth from the fun little snippet at the end of Exposed Desire. The characters in her books are well developed and the plots are very plausible and readable.
April 26, 2026
Fantastic
Kip and Alyssa s story is amazing just like the other Benedict stories. Full of love, suspense, intrigue. I wish the author would do 1 more book regarding Jade and her life and accomplishments.
Kip and Alyssa s story is amazing just like the other Benedict stories. Full of love, suspense, intrigue. I wish the author would do 1 more book regarding Jade and her life and accomplishments.
September 9, 2023
I need to read more about Kipling and Alyssa!
Such a good enemies to lovers book! Couldn’t put this book down! Thank you #NetGalley for letting me read the ARC of this! I’m honored!
Such a good enemies to lovers book! Couldn’t put this book down! Thank you #NetGalley for letting me read the ARC of this! I’m honored!
September 23, 2023
This fast paced emotional thriller kept me riveted until the end. Loved the final Benedict brother’s story and highly recommend this read!!
April 19, 2024
Tieing Up Loose Ends
The final reveal was wrapped up quickly with little surprise. I was glad to read about Jade's future with Alyssa and the Benedict Family.
The final reveal was wrapped up quickly with little surprise. I was glad to read about Jade's future with Alyssa and the Benedict Family.
October 5, 2024
Such an amazing book and series ... The twist and turns this book has will have you entertained throughout the book. Of course I totally loved it and love this author.
April 7, 2025
I enjoyed all 3 of the Benedict Brothers books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2026
Spicy, dramatic, and very much not here to be subtle 😭🖤
This leans into intensity...emotionally AND physically.
If you like your romance bold, messy, and a little addictive, this delivers.
This leans into intensity...emotionally AND physically.
If you like your romance bold, messy, and a little addictive, this delivers.
June 14, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
She's does it every time 👍🏾. How can u not luv these stories 😁, just so perfectly relatable in most ways.
She's does it every time 👍🏾. How can u not luv these stories 😁, just so perfectly relatable in most ways.
October 9, 2023
Exposed Desire is the surprising conclusion to the Benedict Brothers romantic suspense series by Tara Sue Me. In this book, about Kipling Benedict and Alyssa, the Charleston police detective who had arrested him for murder in Perilous Kiss. In this book, readers finally learned the answers a number of mysteries surrounding the Benedict family. These included Tilly Brock’s father and the embezzling at the Benedict shipping empire, the identity of the Benedict brothers’ half-sister, the identity of the mysterious King and why he was so determined to get revenge on the Benedict family, how Jade ended up in the custody of King and why she was intended to be the instrument to bring the Benedict’s down, and more that weren’t even revealed in the earlier books. It was pretty impressive how the author gradually does out small pieces of the puzzle in the earlier books without giving enough for the reader to figure out these mysteries until the third book and not even until near the end. She did an amazing job of bringing everything together by the end of the book in such a satisfactory way with a happy ending for all the good guys. The books were written so that they were never boring and one couldn’t help but continue the story. I wholeheartedly recommend.reading this book and series, especially if a fan of authors such as Rebecca Zanetti or Linda Howard. I am voluntarily writing this review after reading an advanced complementary copy of this book thanks to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews