The Gentlemen's Club

Unbreakable Ties #2

by A.V. Shener

A month has passed since four friends were forced to face their darkest demons and most secret desires. While Ethan and Anthony’s relationship grows stronger by the day, Chris is forced to endure Jay’s continuing thirst for revenge.

Yet no one can predict the coming storm.

The Gentlemen’s Club had destroyed Chris and Anthony’s friendship months before, and although it seems those days are now long gone, dark forces rise once more, determined to pull them back into the midst of chaos and control.

In the face of growing danger, will four stand united as one, or crumble divided?

***

Content warning:
This book is meant for mature audiences. There are graphic depictions of violence, humiliation, and both consensual and non-consensual sex.

Genres: M M Romance, Thriller, Dark Romance, Dark, Abuse, Spicy

325 pages, Paperback

Published December 5, 2023

About the author

A.V. likes to take a ride into the dark side of writing, but always makes sure to find his way back. If he can make his readers both captivated and uncomfortable, he knows he did his job.

Find me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/av_shener_w...

And on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...

And this is my website:
https://avshener.wixsite.com/avshener

Reviews

[Ashley -Goldstarreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is deliciously dark and twisted in the best way possible. This journey takes you down a twisted road of dark, sensual desires that leave you wanting for more. Craving more of the dirty, naughty, wonderful desires. In this second book we follow along with Chris and Anthony’s POV’s as the four friends navigate their lives after the cabin and all the fallout that comes with it. Anthony and Ethan are taking their friendship to a new level and they are just so sweet and beautiful together. Chris is trying to make it through Jay’s continued thirst for revenge and need to humiliate Chris, while keeping it a secret from Ethan and Anthony while trying to get their friendships back on track. This story has so many twists and turns, unexpected surprises and plot twists. My heart breaks for Anthony and Chris as we learn what all went down between them. We see so much more of their pain being inside their heads. I don’t want to say anymore about what this story is about, don’t want to spoil it for anyone. The writing is done so extremely well! Any author that can take the villain at the start of book 1 and make you love them wholeheartedly in book 2 is amazing. And I absolutely adore Chris. I adore them all. Their banter and wit is fantastic. This book had me laugh, she’d some tears and was hot AF. It runs you through the emotional wringer but it is so worth it. The story is great and I can’t wait to see what happens next for these four friends.

[P A-S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, if I thought the first book in this series was full of unexpected twists, this book blew that one out of the water! I couldn’t put it down, to the point where I was tempted to read tiny snippets at red lights while driving! (Don’t worry, I did not make unsafe driving choices for this book!) It was intriguing and exciting, even when it was gut wrenching.

I don’t want to give much away, but I loved the development of the characters and the relationships between them. I was so glad to know that there will be a third book because I am very invested in what happens to these guys!

[Lexi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thrilling. Suspenseful. Twisted. Phenomenal!

This book was absolutely amazing. Loved the plot & the characters. I definitely felt bad for Anthony, Chris, and even Jay. There were some twists in the book that I was not expecting at alll but I’m so excited for the next book in the series!

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story continues, and what a mess these men get in. All of the characters have so many facets, one minute I know who I like and who I don't trust and then it's flipped and everything changes. This friendship is bound by triat and love for one another. That feeling of uneasiness all the way through, people getting tangled up in things that have further repercussions. This story involves untouchable, wealthy and powerful people who get what they want by all means necessary. It is sick and rough and you become desensitised to it by the end. It's quite an adventure and alongside Ethan and Anthony are starting to get serious. The ending brings calm and everything seems to be back to normal and then.....book 3 is needed to see what trouble is coming next.

[Louise · Rating 3 out of 5]

• 3.5 stars •

I’m really enjoying this story so far— it moved at a breakneck speed, gave more backstory, and the ending set up the next book perfectly.

My biggest gripe is that the narrative could’ve been fleshed out more. While some motivations were clear, the lack of introspection left a few characters feeling hollow or even a bit unfocused (e.g. Jay and Ethan)

Still, I’m excited to see how the next book plays out! And just how dark it’ll get this time🫠

[Jennifer Reilley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is so dark and twisted and full of surprises. I haven’t read anything quite this dark before. Kudos to this author with a twisted mind.

[M's ☆~HEA~☆ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know poor Chris and I needed anxiety meds for this book, what a ride. First, the name of the series is no joke. I don't think anything can break these four friends apart, thank God, and I would love to know where the inspiration for these guys comes from because it's so solid and (sometimes😂)pure.

Chris turned around to face him, realizing he was losing control of the situation because Anthony was so goddamn adorable.

Jay's revenge finally comes to the light due to a new threat from Mickey & the Gentlemen's Club, and when Ethan hears what has been going on with his Chris it is priceless:

Jay didn’t get to finish his sentence. Rage took over Ethan, the kind that makes a man jump on another man and smash his fist into his face. //“You’re never gonna touch him again, you hear me? You’re fucking sick!” Ethan stopped shouting when Chris wrapped his arms around him in a tight hug. The sound of Ethan weeping on Chris’s shoulder finally broke through Anthony’s numbness. “It’s okay,” Chris said in a soothing voice. “He doesn’t make me do that anymore. Please stop crying.”

😭This friendship! Can I bubblewrap it? Is it going to be more than a friendship? They are soulmates. God, I love them.

It's now time to enact the scheme that shithead Mickey is forcing them into which involves EVEN WORSE SHITHEADS Tobias, Oscar, & Dima from The Club. A N X I E T Y. Let's just say an unlikely MVP arises to help our boys, even though he's a shithead too, but I'll allow it.

I feel like a total traitor to Chris but I freaking loved the ending of the book!!! The surprise guests at his door are going to cause complete havoc, I just know it. Sorry Chris, I love you, but this is going to be entertaining. Ethan will take care of you I bet 💙Chris & E💙

[Sazzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easiest 5 stars I've ever given! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Shit, this series got darker and I didn't even think that was possible. Almost a direct continuation from book 1 (just a few weeks later) this picks up more or less where we left off.

So many unanswered questions from book 1 are in this, particularly what happened to Ant at The Club. And please believe me when I say that you're not ready to know what happened 😂😱

This brings the 4 friends back together but fate fate really seems to have it in for Chris in this one. No spoilers but you start to see more of his past, more of why he is how he is and, as much as I didn't want to, your attitude towards him changes from what it was in book 1.

Again, a phenomenal read that pushes you to the very edge of your uncomfortable limit... Then throws you right over it in the most spectacular way. It's like rubber-necking. You really don't want to read what you know is coming but you cannot look away.

Addictive, unhinged, captivating and disturbing but in the absolute best way possible.

Outstanding characterisation and imagery again, Book 1 was definitely not a fluke, and this a stunning read in the most unhinged way possible. Again, I couldn't put it down for a second and I'm already on to book 3. I've found an absolute gem in this author, absolutely phenomenal writing.

Again, read the TW/CW before starting this but my God what a series this is 🖤

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

3.75 stars

The Gentlemen’s Club is the second book in the Unbreakable Ties series and follows Our Sweet Revenge. The books are intended to be read in order and this review will contain spoilers for the series.

Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.

[Christina Horton · Rating 5 out of 5]

an emotional rollercoaster

Be aware if you haven't read Unbreakable Ties Book 1 don't read this one. You definitely would be missing too much of you do.

Wow is the only word I can come up with for this second book.

Chris, Jay, Ethan and Anthony never seem to disappoint.

Wherever these four go so do lies, pain, tears, mysteries and some bloodshed.

The deeper we get to know these characters the deeper into the rabbit hole we fall.

Even though Jay and Chris are center stage, Anthony and Ethan are always close by.

I love how no matter what, these guys have each other's back while at the same time would stick a knife into one of the others to protect another of the group.

I can't wait to read the final book: Let it Burn

[LillyRose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did not have much expectations reading this book since the author is new to me, but I have to say I am pleasantly surprised. When I picked this book, I thought sure it says dark, but I was expecting fluffy dark and thought it will be maybe a little cheesy since that is how foursomes are usually written, and it takes a lot of skills to pull it through. Well, this author proved me wrong, and all four friends have their own unique personalities, there is a great plot, and the dialogues are funny and at times they will make you cry. I sure hope the author continues writing because this has been a great journey so far and now I cannot wait to read book 3. I sure hope at some point the friends/lovers become more involved in each other’s lives and have a happy ending. I desperately want Chris to end up with Anthony and Ethan. Specially, he seem to have a special bond with Anthony.

[bookgoddess96 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story just continues to get better and better with this second book. Another book of twists and turns you won’t see coming. The anticipation continues to grow. The second book is just as good as the first and sucks you in. I could not put this down. And the ending will leave you hungry for more. I’d make this review longer but honestly I need to start the 3rd book more than I need air so this will be short and sweet. Read this book. It’s amazing.

[Bexbookrex · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tough read.

The Gentlemen's Club by AV Shener is the 2nd book in the Unbreakable Ties series. The first one, Our Deadly Reunion, though a well-written & intriguing story left me feeling unsettled. Book 2 was equally disturbing but it held a bit more action and the ending triumph was undeniable.
I enjoyed it but I don't recommend if you are faint of heart!
Romance - 1/5
Steam - 2/5
Humor - 0/5
Angst - 5/5
Writing - 4/5

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book of the trilogy, and I loved this one too! It’s addicting, you can not put it down, I was super invested and just had to keep going! -one more chapter-! 🤩 very well written!

[Marcus · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think I set my expectations a little too high after the amazing first book. The vibe was totally different in the previous story which was about the four men in one cabin. This one was a little bit more over the place. Not that it was bad, but I was disappointed that some characters felt a bit detached from the story and action, which was mostly focused on Chris and Anthony. I hope we get to see more Jay in the future.

On top of that it kind of felt like it was one unfortunate event after another, which I can't judge really, like maybe there is a bigger story overall since this is just the second book. Though I hope the author has a clear goal for this series which has a lot of potential, unless it falls into those "episodic" kinda books if you know what I mean.
Overall I am still excited about this and am excited for the next installment

[KJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn't imagine the second book being more tense than book one, now that I know what I'm in for, but wow did this book take it to the next level. The darkness pervades every aspect of this story, delving into some painful themes and pasts that have resulted in such deep and twisted bonds between these four best friends. That the author has made me fall in love with these incredibly morally grey, broken and struggling men is utterly impressive.

I ended up reading this all in one go, I couldn't put it down. I don't think I could possibly describe the intensity of the swirling emotions that ooze out of this book, both dark and painfully heartbreaking. I can't wait to see what the author does with the final book.

[the.aquarius.booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

before reading the book, make sure to check your cw to see if this book is right for you. Not rec for under readers under 18. This starts off where the continuing storyline of book one ends. Ant is finding happiness with Ethan. Jay and Chris are screwed and have to drag them into it. It's all bad. Now, they have to set grievances aside to infiltrate a bad guys lair. At they got eachother. The plot thickens, and more secrets are revealed that sheds light on the past. These guys are the definition of insanity when they get together, and I'm still interested. Wth is going to happen next, and are the friends or foes? These guys are so dysfunctional and toxic together as a friendgroup... yet this is the most honest they have been in years. Also I NEED Ant to have his HEA like I need air.

[Rachel Grey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Revenge Round Two

Two repaired friendships, one to go. Jay’s requirements for forgiveness aren’t so simple. He demands more penance, but we learn that Anthony might be even more deserving of it than Jay.

The Gentleman’s Club rips off the flimsy bandages used to cover the wounds in book one and demands a more permanent repair. The evil we find in the club forces the friends to form a tighter bond than ever to make it out alive.

Lots of drama with this one. Very dark and achingly intense. I absolutely recommend continuing the journey with book two.

[noe · Rating 5 out of 5]

God ... this one was just as amazing as the first one, or dare I say better than book 1? I was immediately sucked in and something that i noticed was how easy it was to remember the characters from book 1 after months from reading it. Perhaps becuse the characters they are distinct and unique.

I want book 3 so bad!! And a random thought; Chris remains my favourite!! And so is his relationship/friendship with Ethan !!

And the ending... cliffhanger ... someone can't break haha. Can't wait for book 3!

[Theresa Lambe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, Aiv really outdid himself with this one. The whole setting...the four friends...ALL the action...was impeccable.

You know those movies when you want to cover your head and hide away so you don't see what's happening but at the same time try to peek where you can? That's what I wanted to do. I wanted to curl up and NOT read but then I couldn't put the book down! Some damn fine writing there! He kept me on the edge of my seat and didn’t let go!

If you want angst, dark moments, and tender feelings at times, reach for this story!

[gettinglostINAbook · Rating 4 out of 5]

“It’s not over. It never is. There are always more monsters.”

- This trilogy is an addictive, page-turning, and thrilling read.
- The story centers around childhood friends facing extreme challenges, including manipulative men, abusers, and psychopaths.
- It’s a MM spicy thriller, with a romantic element, and it includes themes of consent, dub-con, and non-con.
- The narrative explores dark themes like revenge, manipulation, humiliation, blackmail, backstabbing, abuse, perversion, torture and kidnapping.
- Despite the chaos, the central theme of friendship shines through, with the friends showing forgiveness and unwavering support for each other.
- The series is dark, unique, emotionally intense, and highly recommended.

Full review can be find on Our Deadly Reunion page.

[Bart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great follow-up to OUR SWEET REVENGE, and just as kinky, dark, twisted, toe-curling, and disturbingly sexy. A.V. Shener writes classy gay erotica, with tight plots, weird twists, and flesh & blood characters to care about. Lots of fun!

[S.B. Hazel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story continued beautifully here, continuing with the big twists and turns and triggers - check them before you dive into this story, but I am SO excited to see the conclusion. It honestly can't come soon enough.
It's unpredictable, so well written and often shocking - unputdownable.

[Michael Bails · Rating 2 out of 5]

Hmmmm…the first book was pretty good but this one was a bit too twisted for my taste. To know there are people in this world like this is really screwed up.
I’m to the point of having to finish the series but I’m afraid the third book is really going to disgust me unless we get a tremendous HEA.

[Maniyun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Left my full commrnt in vol 3
Anyway enjoyed reading this , angry at Jay to do that to Chris , astonished at how they can confront all this drama and nastiness like it's normal , but happy about the end

[K Sarah]

My stomach physically hurt while reading this, but I enjoyed the thrilling Rollercoaster of emotions.

[Brianna]

DNF @ 43%
- I stopped because I was bored. Then I tried to go back to it, and had no desire to read it. So, DNF. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[Fer (⁠╥⁠﹏⁠╥⁠) suffering for hollanov]

Mds!! Livro tenebroso
Com certeza não lerei o livro 3, os irmãos do Chris são torturadores psicopatas , categoria Dark realmente não é p mim, passo

[Crex · Rating 4 out of 5]

The way I can’t wait to get to book three shows how this book keeps driving me insane and how good it is 😩😭

[Linda Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better and better. It’s dark, twisted and amazing! I can’t wait to read the last book in this wonderful trilogy.