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The Firm #2
Deviant
In my defense, this is all Brad’s fault.
I had one very important job: kidnap Brad.
I’ve never kidnapped someone before but how hard could it be? Find Brad. Snatch Brad. Deliver Brad to the very scary people who hold my fate in their hands.
So when a handsome, flirty stranger at the bar drops his name, I think my luck has finally turned. No chase. No fight. The man practically throws himself in my trunk, smiling like it’s a treat to be taken, like he wants me to have him.
The only problem? “Brad,” the charming and slightly unhinged man I’ve been keeping hostage for days, may be the most dangerous man of all.
Now I’m knee-deep in a life of crime I never signed up for. Tangled up with a man I never meant to take—and definitely never meant to fall for. And I’m staring down the barrel of a gun for mistakes I never should’ve made.
Because everyone knows The Firm never forgives a debt… and they always collect in blood.
I had one very important job: kidnap Brad.
I’ve never kidnapped someone before but how hard could it be? Find Brad. Snatch Brad. Deliver Brad to the very scary people who hold my fate in their hands.
So when a handsome, flirty stranger at the bar drops his name, I think my luck has finally turned. No chase. No fight. The man practically throws himself in my trunk, smiling like it’s a treat to be taken, like he wants me to have him.
The only problem? “Brad,” the charming and slightly unhinged man I’ve been keeping hostage for days, may be the most dangerous man of all.
Now I’m knee-deep in a life of crime I never signed up for. Tangled up with a man I never meant to take—and definitely never meant to fall for. And I’m staring down the barrel of a gun for mistakes I never should’ve made.
Because everyone knows The Firm never forgives a debt… and they always collect in blood.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 5, 2025
365 people are currently reading
1293 people want to read
About the author
Cora Rose
44 books2,692 followersCora Rose loves any kind of romance and consumes way too many books each year. She currently lives in the U.S. and spends her days daydreaming about the characters inside her head.
You can email her at CoraRoseRomance@gmail.com or visit her website at www.coraroseromance.com
You can email her at CoraRoseRomance@gmail.com or visit her website at www.coraroseromance.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 396 reviews
December 11, 2025
When I want something, I make it mine. I’ve always been that way.
When world's worst kidnapper meets world's strangest kidnapping 'victim', sparks fly in this darkish MM romance from Cora and Lark. The odds of kidnapping the man who turns out to be your soulmate aren't great, but Ansel and 'Brad' discover that they aren't zero either 😂.
A dangerous smirk and a set of bulging muscles had me flinging all common sense out the window.
Deviant is Book 2 in The Firm series, where desperate souls make requests to the Buckingham family in exchange for whatever is asked of them. The Buckingham family is very powerful and dangerous, which is why it's so hilarious that Cade is kidnapped by his little butterfly. The majority of the plot centers around Ansel and Cade learning to trust each other and getting to know each other after their unconventional meeting. I loved revisiting the characters from book 1, and the setup for book 3 sounds like it's going to be a wild ride!
Because right now, it doesn’t matter what my mind is telling me, my soul feels safe with Cade. Maybe it’s just for the moment, but still, I’m safe. I know it, and I’m starting to think it’s not my body or soul I need to worry about. It’s my heart.
I really enjoy both Lark and Cora's work but I have to admit the 'unhinged' character type is giving me the ick at this point. There have been so many of them lately and they all seem the same. They seem to be pretty popular, so I think I might be alone in my opinion, but I'm ready for whatever is next.
Rating: 4
Angst: 3.5/5
Steam: 3.5/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review
December 10, 2025
I had such a blast reading this! Cade was not at all how I expected his character to be and that’s what I loved most about reading Deviant. I always love a needy, clingy mmc, but when it turns out to be the badass killer involved in a secret society gang? It hits sooo different ✨💅🎀 so babygirl coded.
“You’re really messed up. I think you need therapy.”
“Says the kidnapper,”
I liked both ansel and cades story. I mean the fact that cade was so taken by ansel that he voluntarily got himself kidnapped??? That’s love babes, don’t settle for less. the plot was great and everything, the only downside I have is the fact that I was a lot more invested in the side couples!!! I already KNOW that dalton and Jackson are going to SLAYYYY me and the fact that the next book is about wylder?? I ate up every crumb I got of the side characters, but that just means that I wasn’t invested in the main characters story.
I’m really loving the series overall, it makes me laugh so hard and that’s always a plus point for me!! I’m so excited for the next book 💓💓
“You’re really messed up. I think you need therapy.”
“Says the kidnapper,”
I liked both ansel and cades story. I mean the fact that cade was so taken by ansel that he voluntarily got himself kidnapped??? That’s love babes, don’t settle for less. the plot was great and everything, the only downside I have is the fact that I was a lot more invested in the side couples!!! I already KNOW that dalton and Jackson are going to SLAYYYY me and the fact that the next book is about wylder?? I ate up every crumb I got of the side characters, but that just means that I wasn’t invested in the main characters story.
I’m really loving the series overall, it makes me laugh so hard and that’s always a plus point for me!! I’m so excited for the next book 💓💓
December 6, 2025
can someone explain to me the following things please:
1. why does ✨the most powerful family in the world✨ get hacked every couple of days
2. said family is anonymous however the bad guys know their faces and they’re just like oh yeah makes sense (it does not make sense)
3. how is it possible that the two ✨best hackers in the world✨ and ✨the most powerful family ever in the history of powerful families✨ can’t find a fucking goddamned gang
this is actually a tragedy.
this started so good. so fucking good. i had a smile on my face and all of that.
however, after 50% my smile started to fade and by 90% it was a full blown grimace.
it also gave me second hand embarrassment from their stupidity, which is simply unacceptable.
1. why does ✨the most powerful family in the world✨ get hacked every couple of days
2. said family is anonymous however the bad guys know their faces and they’re just like oh yeah makes sense (it does not make sense)
3. how is it possible that the two ✨best hackers in the world✨ and ✨the most powerful family ever in the history of powerful families✨ can’t find a fucking goddamned gang
this is actually a tragedy.
this started so good. so fucking good. i had a smile on my face and all of that.
however, after 50% my smile started to fade and by 90% it was a full blown grimace.
it also gave me second hand embarrassment from their stupidity, which is simply unacceptable.
December 9, 2025
Well, not as good as the first one but still a whole lot of fun!
This is the second book in the series, and this time we follow Cade - which already had me excited, because I genuinely love every character in this world and cannot wait for each and every one of the brother’s stories, I love them all 😍
The last book ends with an epilogue that shows Cade being kidnapped by the cute twinky overwhelmed Ansel and I could not stop laughing at how this situation unfolded in the beginning of this book. I absolutely loved how unhinged Cade was. Helping poor Ansel kidnap him, having the time of his life in the process and being all ’this is the best first date I’ve ever had’. Cade and Ansel were genuinely hilarious 🤣
What follows is a captive/captor setup with a twist and a whole lot of protectiveness, obsession, possessiveness and intensity. It’s been a while since I read those tropes and was reminded again how fucking entertaining they can be!
Also: I’ll never complain about some vers kings hehehe 😏
But… it wasn’t flawless. The middle dragged, with a lot of ‘mine’ and a lot of sex, but not enough plot to keep things moving. And one thing that really didn’t make sense to me: Ansel refusing to tell Cade what he’s involved in after he learns who Cade really is. That just didn’t add up and was so obviously used for dramatic plot purposes alone. Cue multiple eye-roll moments 🙄🙄
Also: way too much epilogue sex. Skimmed.
Kati and I also talked about how much we missed the whole direction book 1 set up - The Firm, the wild and fascinating requests, that Robin-Hood-esque concept of helping the helpless and going after the bad guys. That unique angle mostly disappeared here, which made this book feel more like a standard mafia romance instead of the incredibly fresh setup the first book promised. We really, really hope the next installments return to that original spark, because the potential is enormous.
So yes, not as engaging or sharp as book 1 - but still a very entertaining time. And when I tell you I’m obsessed with the next pairing, I mean OBSESSED.
I need bratty Neo and stoic Wylder now.
3,5⭐️
This is the second book in the series, and this time we follow Cade - which already had me excited, because I genuinely love every character in this world and cannot wait for each and every one of the brother’s stories, I love them all 😍
The last book ends with an epilogue that shows Cade being kidnapped by the cute twinky overwhelmed Ansel and I could not stop laughing at how this situation unfolded in the beginning of this book. I absolutely loved how unhinged Cade was. Helping poor Ansel kidnap him, having the time of his life in the process and being all ’this is the best first date I’ve ever had’. Cade and Ansel were genuinely hilarious 🤣
What follows is a captive/captor setup with a twist and a whole lot of protectiveness, obsession, possessiveness and intensity. It’s been a while since I read those tropes and was reminded again how fucking entertaining they can be!
Also: I’ll never complain about some vers kings hehehe 😏
But… it wasn’t flawless. The middle dragged, with a lot of ‘mine’ and a lot of sex, but not enough plot to keep things moving. And one thing that really didn’t make sense to me: Ansel refusing to tell Cade what he’s involved in after he learns who Cade really is. That just didn’t add up and was so obviously used for dramatic plot purposes alone. Cue multiple eye-roll moments 🙄🙄
Also: way too much epilogue sex. Skimmed.
Kati and I also talked about how much we missed the whole direction book 1 set up - The Firm, the wild and fascinating requests, that Robin-Hood-esque concept of helping the helpless and going after the bad guys. That unique angle mostly disappeared here, which made this book feel more like a standard mafia romance instead of the incredibly fresh setup the first book promised. We really, really hope the next installments return to that original spark, because the potential is enormous.
So yes, not as engaging or sharp as book 1 - but still a very entertaining time. And when I tell you I’m obsessed with the next pairing, I mean OBSESSED.
I need bratty Neo and stoic Wylder now.
3,5⭐️
December 9, 2025
3.5**** stars
First of all: the authors’ dedication had me jealous as hell. lol.
And then I was laughing my ass off. It was very funny. As I was expecting after book one’s epilogue.
Sadly this book didn’t hit as well for me as the first one. It wasn’t really the MCs and their love story. It was more the plot surrounding their romance I had issues with. And in the end the whole story went in a totally different direction than I expected and it seems like the authors are taking this plot with them at least into the next book.
But to not spoiler anyone I won’t go any deeper into what exactly it was that bugged me here.
And also: I might’ve not payed attention to it on my own but martina is right, it was odd that these top dogs got hacked/infiltrated twice. Doesn’t shine the bestest light on their capabilities, tbh.
Still, I’m very much in love with these brothers and the other characters so I refuse to give it any less than four stars. Let’s just hope it picks up for me again with the next books. There is quite a number of brothers left to set up with a HEA of their own.
*************
The Firm
Book 1 - Covenant - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Deviant - 3.5 stars
Book 3 - Vigilant - release 11/26
First of all: the authors’ dedication had me jealous as hell. lol.
And then I was laughing my ass off. It was very funny. As I was expecting after book one’s epilogue.
“Can’t believe we’re trusting this guy when he literally kidnapped one of us.”
“It was more of a guided hostage retreat,” Cade says.
Sadly this book didn’t hit as well for me as the first one. It wasn’t really the MCs and their love story. It was more the plot surrounding their romance I had issues with. And in the end the whole story went in a totally different direction than I expected and it seems like the authors are taking this plot with them at least into the next book.
But to not spoiler anyone I won’t go any deeper into what exactly it was that bugged me here.
And also: I might’ve not payed attention to it on my own but martina is right, it was odd that these top dogs got hacked/infiltrated twice. Doesn’t shine the bestest light on their capabilities, tbh.
Still, I’m very much in love with these brothers and the other characters so I refuse to give it any less than four stars. Let’s just hope it picks up for me again with the next books. There is quite a number of brothers left to set up with a HEA of their own.
“What about the punching? I don’t want to be causing issues for you guys.” I press a kiss to his hair, holding back my laughter. “Listen, if a week passes and no one has punched someone, then it’s because we haven’t seen each other.”
*************
The Firm
Book 1 - Covenant - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Deviant - 3.5 stars
Book 3 - Vigilant - release 11/26
December 9, 2025
⭐️
4.5 stars rounded up!
⭐️
Read in another great buddy read with the always lovely Lilly ❤️
This one was almost perfect. From the jump, I absolutely loved these two together, the chemistry was sizzling and their dynamic was perfect.
Cade is one of the older three out of the six brothers. Wylder is the oldest, and I'm not sure if Cade is the second oldest or third oldest before or behind Samson, but either way, he's one of the three oldest who had it the worst with their awful father, and who protected the three youngest - including Matthias from the first book - from the worst of what they all went through.
We do learn some of what Cade went through when he opens up to Ansel in this, and it was truly terrible, so while yes all these men are morally gray, and they all have varying degrees of unhinged-ness, you can't help but feel for them too. They were abused severely, tortured even, by their father.
That would make anyone messed up, but include The Firm in all that, and you have killers...but who aren't completely bad either.
When Cade is seemingly tricked by the small blond twink he meets at a bar, because he gives his name as "Brian" and we learn Ansel was threatened into kidnapping a Brian, Cade is actually more than capable of getting out of the situation, but he chooses not to, because Ansel clearly doesn't know what he's doing, and he's cute and sweet, and Cade wants to have a bit of fun.
He and Ansel are clearly very attracted to each other, but Ansel is supposed to be kidnapping "Brian" and he also has a bit of sass to him. But also Ansel's life is on the line and he tries to be good and not give into his attraction to Cade....which does not last long at all.
And Cade doesn't let Ansel know his real name, that he's not actually Brian, and he's actually quite a dangerous man, because he wants this thing to play out and to learn more about Ansel and it'll all end if he tells him the truth.
Eventually it all comes out though, and the people calling the shots back off when the learn the man Ansel accidentally abducted is Cade. These people obviously know who Cade is and what he's capable of.
But of course Cade's brothers do find him anyway, even as Cade had tries to break his trackers or anything they could use to find him easily, and they think the have to kill Ansel, but Cade won't allow it. Because in those three days in that cabin, a connection is formed between them, and Cade is someone who becomes obsessed with things....and this time it so happens to be a person who he is obsessed with.
Pretty soon into all of it, he thinks of Ansel as his, and it doesn't take long for Ansel to catch up to that.
The only thing is, and what is a part of my .5 stars off, is that Ansel doesn't tell Cade about those who threatened him and who were calling the shots on the kidnapping. Cade wants to know who they are so he can go and kill them all for harming his butterfly, but Ansel wants to keep Cade safe - as Cade doesn't want to scare Ansel off, Cade doesn't let onto his full capabilities and how ruthless he and his brothers are, and so Ansel isn't aware and thinks he's protecting Cade by not saying anything about these people.
I get it, but it was also a bit frustrating, especially when things come to a head later (because of course this gang doesn't just go away permanently) and while I understand Ansel's actions later on, I just wish these two had stopped delaying a talk about these people and that Cade had pushed Ansel for more so a lot of the climax could have been avoided.
But my bigger reason for .5 off is...well, the switching out of nowhere. Cade is quite a bit bigger than Ansel and has a very dominant personality and all signs point to him being a strict top and then absolutely out of nowhere all the sudden Cade is fine with bottoming? Huh? It didn't fit for these two either, at all, so it felt really forced. Just didn't care for that.
Their chemistry was off the walls amazing, I was so invested in this story and honestly if the verse stuff hadn't been in this - and if the epilogue had been about these two and NOT the next couple of the next book - then this would have been a perfect 5 star read for me and I would have said this was even better than the first book.
Overall as a couple, I loved Cade and Ansel even more than Matthias and Wyatt, even though I did love them, these two were just amazing and beating them out. And overall this story was amazing and I loved it, but the verse stuff just dampened this slightly and did not work for their dynamic at all. I wish authors would stop trying to force switching when it isn't needed.
But aside from that (and the epilogue) this was pretty much perfect, I absolutely loved it, and Lilly and I couldn't get enough of this. Just a small change or two and it would have been *chefs kiss*
So I definitely highly recommend this, I am absolutely loving this series. Can't wait for Wylder and Neo next, I bet their story is going to be amazing.
Until then! 😘
My Ratings for The Firm Series:
✨ Covenant: 5 stars (my review)
✨ Deviant: 4.5 stars
✨ Vigilant: TBR
Read in another great buddy read with the always lovely Lilly ❤️
This one was almost perfect. From the jump, I absolutely loved these two together, the chemistry was sizzling and their dynamic was perfect.
Cade is one of the older three out of the six brothers. Wylder is the oldest, and I'm not sure if Cade is the second oldest or third oldest before or behind Samson, but either way, he's one of the three oldest who had it the worst with their awful father, and who protected the three youngest - including Matthias from the first book - from the worst of what they all went through.
We do learn some of what Cade went through when he opens up to Ansel in this, and it was truly terrible, so while yes all these men are morally gray, and they all have varying degrees of unhinged-ness, you can't help but feel for them too. They were abused severely, tortured even, by their father.
That would make anyone messed up, but include The Firm in all that, and you have killers...but who aren't completely bad either.
When Cade is seemingly tricked by the small blond twink he meets at a bar, because he gives his name as "Brian" and we learn Ansel was threatened into kidnapping a Brian, Cade is actually more than capable of getting out of the situation, but he chooses not to, because Ansel clearly doesn't know what he's doing, and he's cute and sweet, and Cade wants to have a bit of fun.
He and Ansel are clearly very attracted to each other, but Ansel is supposed to be kidnapping "Brian" and he also has a bit of sass to him. But also Ansel's life is on the line and he tries to be good and not give into his attraction to Cade....which does not last long at all.
And Cade doesn't let Ansel know his real name, that he's not actually Brian, and he's actually quite a dangerous man, because he wants this thing to play out and to learn more about Ansel and it'll all end if he tells him the truth.
Eventually it all comes out though, and the people calling the shots back off when the learn the man Ansel accidentally abducted is Cade. These people obviously know who Cade is and what he's capable of.
But of course Cade's brothers do find him anyway, even as Cade had tries to break his trackers or anything they could use to find him easily, and they think the have to kill Ansel, but Cade won't allow it. Because in those three days in that cabin, a connection is formed between them, and Cade is someone who becomes obsessed with things....and this time it so happens to be a person who he is obsessed with.
Pretty soon into all of it, he thinks of Ansel as his, and it doesn't take long for Ansel to catch up to that.
The only thing is, and what is a part of my .5 stars off, is that Ansel doesn't tell Cade about those who threatened him and who were calling the shots on the kidnapping. Cade wants to know who they are so he can go and kill them all for harming his butterfly, but Ansel wants to keep Cade safe - as Cade doesn't want to scare Ansel off, Cade doesn't let onto his full capabilities and how ruthless he and his brothers are, and so Ansel isn't aware and thinks he's protecting Cade by not saying anything about these people.
I get it, but it was also a bit frustrating, especially when things come to a head later (because of course this gang doesn't just go away permanently) and while I understand Ansel's actions later on, I just wish these two had stopped delaying a talk about these people and that Cade had pushed Ansel for more so a lot of the climax could have been avoided.
But my bigger reason for .5 off is...well, the switching out of nowhere. Cade is quite a bit bigger than Ansel and has a very dominant personality and all signs point to him being a strict top and then absolutely out of nowhere all the sudden Cade is fine with bottoming? Huh? It didn't fit for these two either, at all, so it felt really forced. Just didn't care for that.
Their chemistry was off the walls amazing, I was so invested in this story and honestly if the verse stuff hadn't been in this - and if the epilogue had been about these two and NOT the next couple of the next book - then this would have been a perfect 5 star read for me and I would have said this was even better than the first book.
Overall as a couple, I loved Cade and Ansel even more than Matthias and Wyatt, even though I did love them, these two were just amazing and beating them out. And overall this story was amazing and I loved it, but the verse stuff just dampened this slightly and did not work for their dynamic at all. I wish authors would stop trying to force switching when it isn't needed.
But aside from that (and the epilogue) this was pretty much perfect, I absolutely loved it, and Lilly and I couldn't get enough of this. Just a small change or two and it would have been *chefs kiss*
So I definitely highly recommend this, I am absolutely loving this series. Can't wait for Wylder and Neo next, I bet their story is going to be amazing.
Until then! 😘
My Ratings for The Firm Series:
✨ Covenant: 5 stars (my review)
✨ Deviant: 4.5 stars
✨ Vigilant: TBR
December 26, 2025
Absolutely terrible. Hated this!
November 23, 2025
Deviant is book two in the Firm series. This MM romance story is about Cade and Ansel.
I have to start out by saying I loved book one, Covenant. And with the tease from the epilogue, I couldn’t wait to read Cade’s story. And holy moly, it did not disappoint. I just devoured this book and couldn’t get enough of Cade and Ansel. It starts off with a kidnapping gone wrong and takes off from there. Cade had me smiling and falling in love with him right from the beginning. And when the danger hit, I was all stressed out and super emotional with everything that went down. This was a wild ride and boy did I enjoy it.
I love an obsessive man and Cade might be my new favorite. He and Ansel couldn’t say no to each other and would do anything to protect one another. Not only did I love Cade and Ansel, but I loved getting more of all the unhinged Buckingham brothers. I enjoyed seeing them fight each other and their banter was everything. All of them are just so intriguing and it makes me want more of them. And I loved getting to meet Ansel’s best friend Neo. He is such a trip and now I cannot wait for Wylder and Neo’s story next.
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
I have to start out by saying I loved book one, Covenant. And with the tease from the epilogue, I couldn’t wait to read Cade’s story. And holy moly, it did not disappoint. I just devoured this book and couldn’t get enough of Cade and Ansel. It starts off with a kidnapping gone wrong and takes off from there. Cade had me smiling and falling in love with him right from the beginning. And when the danger hit, I was all stressed out and super emotional with everything that went down. This was a wild ride and boy did I enjoy it.
I love an obsessive man and Cade might be my new favorite. He and Ansel couldn’t say no to each other and would do anything to protect one another. Not only did I love Cade and Ansel, but I loved getting more of all the unhinged Buckingham brothers. I enjoyed seeing them fight each other and their banter was everything. All of them are just so intriguing and it makes me want more of them. And I loved getting to meet Ansel’s best friend Neo. He is such a trip and now I cannot wait for Wylder and Neo’s story next.
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
December 8, 2025
Tropes: forced proximity, hurt/comfort, captive/captor
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 3.5/5
Kinks: sex in risky places, toys
Angst: medium
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: physical and mental abuse of children, past death of parents due to drug use, foster care, unsafe sex, kidnapping by MMC and others, torture of MMC and side characters, murder, break up of MMCs, past drug abuse by MMC
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: once they meet, neither are interested in anyone else. There are some references to past hookups and boyfriends but they are minor. It was kind of dumb though how Cade told Ansel that he had his tub made huge so he could have threesomes in it while he was in said tub with Ansel. Way to say "I made this fuck spot with others in mind and f***** other people here in this exact spot" and kill a mood.
4.25 stars
Ansel is 25. He is a poor hacker, a hacktivist who took a job that was sketchy and found out s*** about scary people that he shouldn't have. Big blackmail him into kidnapping someone. And due to a name mix up, he targets the wrong guy. The guy he targets (Cade, well into his mid thirties) is into him though, and even though he's a scarier guy than even the people blackmailing Ansel, Cade let's himself be kidnapped. He ends up willingly staying in captivity even though Ansel is an extremely incompetent kidnapper and the escape opportunities were bountiful. He gives him tips. He frees his arms from bindings just so he can snuggle in bed with Ansel.
Cade is a Buckingham and he is filthy rich and powerful, part of the Firm. He's bloodthirsty and unhinged, was raised by an abusive and manipulative father to survive anything. When his brothers find him and the bad guys realize Ansel kidnapped the wrong person, Cade takes Ansel with him, claims him as his boyfriend, and starts introducing him to his world. They are both extremely smitten with each other. But then the bad guys rear their ugly heads and force Ansel to make some tough choices, and s*** goes down.
I enjoyed this book. It was unhinged hilarity at times. I loved how inept of a kidnapper Ansel was. I liked the interactions with the brothers, Ansel fits in well with them. Neo and Wylder are a promising couple for the next book (though I'm a bit icked by them both dating/fucking others for months as they are at the same time developing feelings for each other and flirting). It also hit me in the emotions and had me crying for a while when Ansel broke up with Cade and was in danger. I'm enjoying this pairing of the authors, because you get the humour and immersive stream of consciousness of the characters from Cora and the emotional depth/angst from Lark. I'm looking forward to the rest of this series.
I did find the love on Cade's side to be a little superficial. It seemed like he was intrigued and attracted, rather than really loving Ansel for who he was. Ansel very clearly just had attraction for Cade at first, and then he started to love Cade for how he cared for him and accepted him so unconditionally.
Some notable moments:
"Unsurprisingly, it’s Harley who addresses it. “Um, Cade? Do you have a head injury too?” My gaze snaps up. “What?” Harley gestures at Ansel with a bemused smile. “Well, you’ve been kidnapped. You managed to leave both your phone and your watch behind so we couldn’t track you. You’re being held captive by a twink who weighs less than what you’re able to bench press, and you’re being held in possibly one of the worst setups we’ve seen. Seriously, there’s one lock on the outer door, and it wasn’t even being used.”"
"Ansel takes the slice of tarte and shoves it right into her face. I hear it connect. Sploosh. There’s a moment of stunned silence. From the corner of my eye, I can see the delight on Harley’s face, and the moon eyes Dalton is making at my boyfriend. He can fuck off. There’s only one person who will be marrying Ansel, and it’s going to be me."
"Wylder sighs, but I see the way his nostrils flare in annoyance. “Come on, brat. I have things I need to discuss with you. First being why the fuck you changed the background on my computer to a cat flipping me off.” Neo giggles like a maniac. “Genius, I know. You won’t ever be able to get that off, either. I made it stick.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 3.5/5
Kinks: sex in risky places, toys
Angst: medium
HEA: HEA
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings/representation: physical and mental abuse of children, past death of parents due to drug use, foster care, unsafe sex, kidnapping by MMC and others, torture of MMC and side characters, murder, break up of MMCs, past drug abuse by MMC
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: once they meet, neither are interested in anyone else. There are some references to past hookups and boyfriends but they are minor. It was kind of dumb though how Cade told Ansel that he had his tub made huge so he could have threesomes in it while he was in said tub with Ansel. Way to say "I made this fuck spot with others in mind and f***** other people here in this exact spot" and kill a mood.
4.25 stars
Ansel is 25. He is a poor hacker, a hacktivist who took a job that was sketchy and found out s*** about scary people that he shouldn't have. Big blackmail him into kidnapping someone. And due to a name mix up, he targets the wrong guy. The guy he targets (Cade, well into his mid thirties) is into him though, and even though he's a scarier guy than even the people blackmailing Ansel, Cade let's himself be kidnapped. He ends up willingly staying in captivity even though Ansel is an extremely incompetent kidnapper and the escape opportunities were bountiful. He gives him tips. He frees his arms from bindings just so he can snuggle in bed with Ansel.
Cade is a Buckingham and he is filthy rich and powerful, part of the Firm. He's bloodthirsty and unhinged, was raised by an abusive and manipulative father to survive anything. When his brothers find him and the bad guys realize Ansel kidnapped the wrong person, Cade takes Ansel with him, claims him as his boyfriend, and starts introducing him to his world. They are both extremely smitten with each other. But then the bad guys rear their ugly heads and force Ansel to make some tough choices, and s*** goes down.
I enjoyed this book. It was unhinged hilarity at times. I loved how inept of a kidnapper Ansel was. I liked the interactions with the brothers, Ansel fits in well with them. Neo and Wylder are a promising couple for the next book (though I'm a bit icked by them both dating/fucking others for months as they are at the same time developing feelings for each other and flirting). It also hit me in the emotions and had me crying for a while when Ansel broke up with Cade and was in danger. I'm enjoying this pairing of the authors, because you get the humour and immersive stream of consciousness of the characters from Cora and the emotional depth/angst from Lark. I'm looking forward to the rest of this series.
I did find the love on Cade's side to be a little superficial. It seemed like he was intrigued and attracted, rather than really loving Ansel for who he was. Ansel very clearly just had attraction for Cade at first, and then he started to love Cade for how he cared for him and accepted him so unconditionally.
Some notable moments:
"Unsurprisingly, it’s Harley who addresses it. “Um, Cade? Do you have a head injury too?” My gaze snaps up. “What?” Harley gestures at Ansel with a bemused smile. “Well, you’ve been kidnapped. You managed to leave both your phone and your watch behind so we couldn’t track you. You’re being held captive by a twink who weighs less than what you’re able to bench press, and you’re being held in possibly one of the worst setups we’ve seen. Seriously, there’s one lock on the outer door, and it wasn’t even being used.”"
"Ansel takes the slice of tarte and shoves it right into her face. I hear it connect. Sploosh. There’s a moment of stunned silence. From the corner of my eye, I can see the delight on Harley’s face, and the moon eyes Dalton is making at my boyfriend. He can fuck off. There’s only one person who will be marrying Ansel, and it’s going to be me."
"Wylder sighs, but I see the way his nostrils flare in annoyance. “Come on, brat. I have things I need to discuss with you. First being why the fuck you changed the background on my computer to a cat flipping me off.” Neo giggles like a maniac. “Genius, I know. You won’t ever be able to get that off, either. I made it stick.”"
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2025
The way I'm invested in this world is insane 🤭 This whole secret society theme paired with MCs who have amazing chemistry? I'm so sold.
Ansel has got a task to do. One he not necessarily likes or even really wants to go through, and so he meets Cade. Cade, who is everything Ansel would look for in a guy. Cade who has secrets, lots of them 😏
Their whole dynamic is amazing, and this book just made me want to have more of this universe. The Firm is so fascinating to me.
This book is full of action, annoying yet wholesome brotherly love and twists you did not expect, what a great journey 🥰
Oh, and I love Neo 🤣 can’t wait to get to know him better 😍
Ansel has got a task to do. One he not necessarily likes or even really wants to go through, and so he meets Cade. Cade, who is everything Ansel would look for in a guy. Cade who has secrets, lots of them 😏
Their whole dynamic is amazing, and this book just made me want to have more of this universe. The Firm is so fascinating to me.
This book is full of action, annoying yet wholesome brotherly love and twists you did not expect, what a great journey 🥰
Oh, and I love Neo 🤣 can’t wait to get to know him better 😍
December 8, 2025
Ansel and Cade are a highly entertaining duo that are full of surprises. I never really knew where the story would take them, and I love how they both have a great amount of chemistry, but the insane situations lead to so many instances of surprise and thrill.
Overall, this is a great entry in this series that keeps you invested in the characters while constantly wondering where it will go next. The brothers have an intense bond that is only further heightened by their crazy situations they find themselves in. I love being in this world and look forward to the next one.
Overall, this is a great entry in this series that keeps you invested in the characters while constantly wondering where it will go next. The brothers have an intense bond that is only further heightened by their crazy situations they find themselves in. I love being in this world and look forward to the next one.
November 22, 2025
4.5⭐️
Ansel doesn’t want to kidnap Brad, but he doesn’t really get a choice in that—not since a mysterious group has full control over his life. But Ansel sucks at kidnapping! Not only is the guy he kidnaps not Brad, but he’s Cade Buckingham, one of our beloved, unhinged brothers who run The Firm. Cade’s response to being kidnapped by such a lovely little butterfly? Absolutely delighted. Cade is more than happy to go along with Ansel’s kidnapping attempt, and their predicament soon turns steamy (and dangerous).
In this book you’re going to get:
-a possessive and obsessive MC (unhinged but in a fun way)
-an MC who is avery competent hacker but very incompetent kidnapper
-dark romance
-secrets, action, and violence
-“mine”
-nicknames ‘Titan’ and ‘my butterfly’
-violent but hilarious cast
-captor / captive with a twist
-rich / poor dynamic
This book was SO much fun. It almost feels like it’s written in acts. We get a fantastic setup with a kidnapper / captive dynamic that goes so hard, great relationship building and fun, and then action and suspense! This book really has it all without it feeling forced.
I absolutely loved Cade, too! He moves away from the stereotypical big macho dark romance MMC, and is much more multifaceted. Is he still obsessive, sexy, and violent? Yes. But he’s also vulnerable, quirky, and completely shameless. His reaction to getting ‘kidnapped’ was such a fantastic way to kick off the story, and I loved reading his POV. He absolutely has that humours but unhinged vibe that I love in a couple other Cora Rose characters.
I adored this book even more than book one! It was wildly entertaining. The setup for the next book is also excellent, and has me chomping at the bit to read book 3! This series is so much fun. It does a great job of building a wide cast of characters that’s diverse but fun. Both Cora and Lark are masters at this, and this series is no exception!!
Definitely grab this book as soon as you can get your hands on it (December 5th!)
Ansel doesn’t want to kidnap Brad, but he doesn’t really get a choice in that—not since a mysterious group has full control over his life. But Ansel sucks at kidnapping! Not only is the guy he kidnaps not Brad, but he’s Cade Buckingham, one of our beloved, unhinged brothers who run The Firm. Cade’s response to being kidnapped by such a lovely little butterfly? Absolutely delighted. Cade is more than happy to go along with Ansel’s kidnapping attempt, and their predicament soon turns steamy (and dangerous).
In this book you’re going to get:
-a possessive and obsessive MC (unhinged but in a fun way)
-an MC who is avery competent hacker but very incompetent kidnapper
-dark romance
-secrets, action, and violence
-“mine”
-nicknames ‘Titan’ and ‘my butterfly’
-violent but hilarious cast
-captor / captive with a twist
-rich / poor dynamic
This book was SO much fun. It almost feels like it’s written in acts. We get a fantastic setup with a kidnapper / captive dynamic that goes so hard, great relationship building and fun, and then action and suspense! This book really has it all without it feeling forced.
I absolutely loved Cade, too! He moves away from the stereotypical big macho dark romance MMC, and is much more multifaceted. Is he still obsessive, sexy, and violent? Yes. But he’s also vulnerable, quirky, and completely shameless. His reaction to getting ‘kidnapped’ was such a fantastic way to kick off the story, and I loved reading his POV. He absolutely has that humours but unhinged vibe that I love in a couple other Cora Rose characters.
I adored this book even more than book one! It was wildly entertaining. The setup for the next book is also excellent, and has me chomping at the bit to read book 3! This series is so much fun. It does a great job of building a wide cast of characters that’s diverse but fun. Both Cora and Lark are masters at this, and this series is no exception!!
Definitely grab this book as soon as you can get your hands on it (December 5th!)
January 18, 2026
2.5 - 3⭐
This story was not good.
I’m only rounding it up because of the many side characters that made it bearable enough to finish it.
It starts out great, it's funny and it definitely pulls you in, but the moment Cade brings Ansel back to the family mansion, it's over.
I like the setting, I like the brothers and the funny and scarce action-filled parts of the book are good, so is the sex, but if you put it all together, it just doesn't work.
🟢 A hacker / the family's cute, hot psychopath
🟣 Age gap - 25/about 35?
🟡 Size difference
🔵 Both gay
🟢 Cade is unhinged, but doesn't do more than simp for Ansel in this book, he could be doing so much more
🟠 3rd act break up, annoying
🔵 Introduction of the Umbra Syndicate, I'm intrigued
🌶️ Good, descriptive sex, but not that much of it, just a few scenes; oral, penetrative; both vers (good choice)
Ansel is a really good hacker who’s apparently all about being ethical, so he’s poor and barely getting paid (weird). He ends up tangled in a shitshow with the Umbra Syndicate, a group of criminals who are after The Firm.
To avoid getting himself killed, Ansel has to kidnap someone and he does, except he kidnaps the wrong guy, he kidnaps Cade when Cade is at a bar trying to hook up, giving Ansel a fake name.
The thing is, Cade can’t really be kidnapped, he’s too good at what he does, but he really wants to be. Ansel catches his attention and Cade decides that this is the best first date he’s ever had.
"I don’t want to be found. I’m having too much fun. I hear a beep, and I spot a Toyota Camry with the trunk popped open. I walk a little faster.
“What the hell?” Ansel whispers as I sit down in the trunk and flop sideways.
“Close the trunk, butterfly,” I murmur. He doesn’t do anything. He’s frozen in the moonlight, like he can’t believe any of this is happening. I smile encouragingly. “You’ve got this. I’m all tucked in, snug as a bug. Close the trunk and let’s get this show on the road.”
They go to this remote cabin, where Ansel proves to be the worst kidnapper ever and Cade ends up instructing him on how to do everything right. It was fun, and it could’ve been even hotter if they had actually done more than talk, but fine, I was hoping it would get even more interesting.
But it didn’t.
Cade’s brothers find him and try to rescue him. He doesn’t want to be rescued, so he’s telling them to back off. When they capture and hurt Ansel is where it all ends and they all go back to the family mansion.
All good so far, but this is where the story starts going downhill, at least for me, because the plot just wasn't well developed, it's a weird, stupid almost-action flick thrown together at a moment's notice without much real imagination, that's how it read to me.
What was really annoying was Ansel’s refusal to tell Cade who was hunting him down, who was threatening him. He never said a thing, even after discovering who Cade and his family were. A smart person would have immediately tried to solve the situation somehow, having all these dangerous guys at his disposal, but instead, Ansel played the rescuer and protector needlessly. For all the genius he supposedly was, he made some really stupid decisions and eventually had to break it off with Cade to "save" him.
In the end they were all running around not knowing what to do and who to capture. Their very secure and secretive society was compromised by a bunch of plumbers and low life criminals and it just makes you wonder what the hell is this insanely rich family even doing if they don't have top personnel hired for their safety and then two poor twinks living on ramen can hack into everything they own? It was ridiculous!
As far as the love story goes, I get that this is insta love. For Cade, it wasn’t surprising, it was very believable, he’s unhinged, he latched onto Ansel and knew immediately this was where he wanted to be, but I did miss that same energy from Ansel, though. Ansel just wasn't that good. He turned out to be boring and predictable and I missed the same intensity that I got from Cade.
I feel somewhat optimistic about Wylder's book. He's the guy whose story I'm interested in the most, but I'm really worried the authors won't make it good.
This story was not good.
I’m only rounding it up because of the many side characters that made it bearable enough to finish it.
It starts out great, it's funny and it definitely pulls you in, but the moment Cade brings Ansel back to the family mansion, it's over.
I like the setting, I like the brothers and the funny and scarce action-filled parts of the book are good, so is the sex, but if you put it all together, it just doesn't work.
🟢 A hacker / the family's cute, hot psychopath
🟣 Age gap - 25/about 35?
🟡 Size difference
🔵 Both gay
🟢 Cade is unhinged, but doesn't do more than simp for Ansel in this book, he could be doing so much more
🟠 3rd act break up, annoying
🔵 Introduction of the Umbra Syndicate, I'm intrigued
🌶️ Good, descriptive sex, but not that much of it, just a few scenes; oral, penetrative; both vers (good choice)
Ansel is a really good hacker who’s apparently all about being ethical, so he’s poor and barely getting paid (weird). He ends up tangled in a shitshow with the Umbra Syndicate, a group of criminals who are after The Firm.
To avoid getting himself killed, Ansel has to kidnap someone and he does, except he kidnaps the wrong guy, he kidnaps Cade when Cade is at a bar trying to hook up, giving Ansel a fake name.
The thing is, Cade can’t really be kidnapped, he’s too good at what he does, but he really wants to be. Ansel catches his attention and Cade decides that this is the best first date he’s ever had.
"I don’t want to be found. I’m having too much fun. I hear a beep, and I spot a Toyota Camry with the trunk popped open. I walk a little faster.
“What the hell?” Ansel whispers as I sit down in the trunk and flop sideways.
“Close the trunk, butterfly,” I murmur. He doesn’t do anything. He’s frozen in the moonlight, like he can’t believe any of this is happening. I smile encouragingly. “You’ve got this. I’m all tucked in, snug as a bug. Close the trunk and let’s get this show on the road.”
They go to this remote cabin, where Ansel proves to be the worst kidnapper ever and Cade ends up instructing him on how to do everything right. It was fun, and it could’ve been even hotter if they had actually done more than talk, but fine, I was hoping it would get even more interesting.
But it didn’t.
Cade’s brothers find him and try to rescue him. He doesn’t want to be rescued, so he’s telling them to back off. When they capture and hurt Ansel is where it all ends and they all go back to the family mansion.
All good so far, but this is where the story starts going downhill, at least for me, because the plot just wasn't well developed, it's a weird, stupid almost-action flick thrown together at a moment's notice without much real imagination, that's how it read to me.
What was really annoying was Ansel’s refusal to tell Cade who was hunting him down, who was threatening him. He never said a thing, even after discovering who Cade and his family were. A smart person would have immediately tried to solve the situation somehow, having all these dangerous guys at his disposal, but instead, Ansel played the rescuer and protector needlessly. For all the genius he supposedly was, he made some really stupid decisions and eventually had to break it off with Cade to "save" him.
In the end they were all running around not knowing what to do and who to capture. Their very secure and secretive society was compromised by a bunch of plumbers and low life criminals and it just makes you wonder what the hell is this insanely rich family even doing if they don't have top personnel hired for their safety and then two poor twinks living on ramen can hack into everything they own? It was ridiculous!
As far as the love story goes, I get that this is insta love. For Cade, it wasn’t surprising, it was very believable, he’s unhinged, he latched onto Ansel and knew immediately this was where he wanted to be, but I did miss that same energy from Ansel, though. Ansel just wasn't that good. He turned out to be boring and predictable and I missed the same intensity that I got from Cade.
I feel somewhat optimistic about Wylder's book. He's the guy whose story I'm interested in the most, but I'm really worried the authors won't make it good.
dnf
December 19, 2025DNF at 48%
I liked this in the beginning, but we just transitioned into too much Cora for me. Very silly, very over the top. Will give the next book another shot, just hoping for more Lark than Cora.
I liked this in the beginning, but we just transitioned into too much Cora for me. Very silly, very over the top. Will give the next book another shot, just hoping for more Lark than Cora.
December 3, 2025
Omg, this book, I am screaming, so so sooooo good! I adore Cade, he is perfectly unhinged and perfectly swoony and o love him your honour 🫠🫠! Talk about insta lust to fall in love with everything you’ve got. And Ansel, must be protected at all costs, such a sweet sweet man, don’t worry Cade is on it. This book made me giggle snort, kick my feet, ache for the two of them and set my kindle on fire.. I mean they only needed an excuse to drop their pants 🤣. Hot hot hot can’t keep their hands off each other love bubble.
So here is what happened, I loved everything about the kidnapping… everything!!! And then everything about their dinner with Candace.. Everything!! And then everything about how the Buckinghams literally adopted him and then the heartbreaking part we won’t talk about that 😭😭😭😭 and then the vengence .. yes made my bloodthirsty soul happy .. all of the let’s band together and take the bad guys down.. badder guys? Other bad guys? Ugh.. it’s a dark romance with morally grey lines.. it works ! Anywhooo back to I loved the coming home. I loved Neo.
I am very excited about the future pairing specially the next one.
If you want a dark romance with humour heat and high octane action with some hacking of the computer and limbs kind read this!!
So here is what happened, I loved everything about the kidnapping… everything!!! And then everything about their dinner with Candace.. Everything!! And then everything about how the Buckinghams literally adopted him and then the heartbreaking part we won’t talk about that 😭😭😭😭 and then the vengence .. yes made my bloodthirsty soul happy .. all of the let’s band together and take the bad guys down.. badder guys? Other bad guys? Ugh.. it’s a dark romance with morally grey lines.. it works ! Anywhooo back to I loved the coming home. I loved Neo.
I am very excited about the future pairing specially the next one.
If you want a dark romance with humour heat and high octane action with some hacking of the computer and limbs kind read this!!
December 14, 2025
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: forced proximity, hurt / comfort, size difference
A very entertaining romance, with an obsessive and unhinged golden retriever MC and his kidnapper!
The authors really had me hooked right from the start with this one, and I'm very intrigued by these brothers and the whole secret society plot. The kidnapping situation was hilarious, and I loved how the chemistry between Cade and Ansel quickly reached sizzling levels!
I always love a good unhinged golden retriever character who will do anything to protect their person, and Cade was exactly like that. It didn't take him long to get obsessed with Ansel, and I really enjoyed how his character was portrayed. Ansel was sweet and it was obvious from the first chapter that he was in way over his head. It was cute to see how badly they both wanted each other, and the kidnapping as a meet-cute was honestly a perfect fit for these two.
The tension stayed high for the duration of the story, and there was a bit of suspense as well. I liked the twists and while some were easier to predict than others, there were also some surprises along the way. It still had the same eerie feeling / setting to it as the first book did, and while it got a little darker, it didn’t feel too heavy or angsty.
Deviant was a highly entertaining and intriguing romance, and I had a lot of fun with these guys! The family scenes were chaotic in the best way, and I can't wait to see more of the Buckingham brothers and their partners. So far the stories have been very addictive and bingeable, and I'm very excited to see which direction the authors will take for the overarching plot!
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I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: forced proximity, hurt / comfort, size difference
A very entertaining romance, with an obsessive and unhinged golden retriever MC and his kidnapper!
The authors really had me hooked right from the start with this one, and I'm very intrigued by these brothers and the whole secret society plot. The kidnapping situation was hilarious, and I loved how the chemistry between Cade and Ansel quickly reached sizzling levels!
I always love a good unhinged golden retriever character who will do anything to protect their person, and Cade was exactly like that. It didn't take him long to get obsessed with Ansel, and I really enjoyed how his character was portrayed. Ansel was sweet and it was obvious from the first chapter that he was in way over his head. It was cute to see how badly they both wanted each other, and the kidnapping as a meet-cute was honestly a perfect fit for these two.
The tension stayed high for the duration of the story, and there was a bit of suspense as well. I liked the twists and while some were easier to predict than others, there were also some surprises along the way. It still had the same eerie feeling / setting to it as the first book did, and while it got a little darker, it didn’t feel too heavy or angsty.
Deviant was a highly entertaining and intriguing romance, and I had a lot of fun with these guys! The family scenes were chaotic in the best way, and I can't wait to see more of the Buckingham brothers and their partners. So far the stories have been very addictive and bingeable, and I'm very excited to see which direction the authors will take for the overarching plot!
-
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
January 11, 2026
The book started interesting but got a bit cringe when the family got involved. there was so much potential! The misogyny and Ansel suddenly becoming a different character made me DNF.
The treatment of Candance is wild,
The treatment of Candance is wild,
January 2, 2026
First off this was HARD INSTA LOVE … This was not as good as the first one sadly. The premise was great and it kind of went downhill so much scrabbling between the brothers and so little plot.
They are soooo powerful… yea ok, they get hacked and disrespected CONSISTENTLY
December 30, 2025
3.5 stars
Another case of it's not the book, it's me. This one falls just the wrong side for me in my weirdly specific yet totally nebulous enjoyment of dark romance (featuring the mafia, secret societies, etc). I wish I could pinpoint why something works for me so that I don't have to just read and hope for the best but alas, I can't. But it's a personal problem - not necessarily an reflection of the authors or story.
This is insta between a completely unhinged assassin? enforcer? secret society member? Cade, and a lonely hacker (who is not very good at kidnapping but is trying his best), Ansel. The connection between the two feels tremulous but for the kind of story this is, they do make sense together. Ansel isn't used to being wanted or cared for and Cade really wants him and wants to take care of him. Wins all around. Not particularly deep but they were cute together so that covers a lot of sins.
The storyline has several holes and a good deal of it could've been avoided if the MCs had been honest with each other but, again, credibility wasn't what we were going for here. And I will admit that Ansel's actions toward the conclusion (the notes) actually made me tear up. Weirdly that one letter is the best written part of the whole book to me.
The big part that didn't work for me was the secret society bit. This is one of those times where I'm rolling my eyes and everything feels cheesy and OTT. I know I need to suspend my belief for these kinds of stories but sometimes I just can't and this was one of those times. Plus the dynamic of the family/Firm was ridiculous and not in the fun way.
I do want to give a special shout out to the hand feeding - this is the kind of caretaking I go absolutely feral for. Honestly, we should be seeing this more in our books. Also, Ansel having an equal amount of control in their sex life (and Cade being the one to go down on Ansel at every available moment) was an interesting deviation from the norm. I prefer a more D/s dynamic but for those who like to see a really equal footing between their MCs (including a big ass motherfucker getting dicked down by his twinkish boyfriend) then this will probably appeal.
I had skipped the first book in this series because second chance isn't my jam and now that I know that the "dark" element of this is the kind I don't really vibe with, I probably won't continue the series - although I'll admit that Neo and Wylder do have me curious, so we shall see.
Pet names: butterfly, Titan
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: I guess it could be argued that Ansel was holding Cade hostage during their first few encounters but Cade absolutely wanted to be there. He basically kidnapped himself and was the one to initiate the encounters.
Other person drama: None.
Another case of it's not the book, it's me. This one falls just the wrong side for me in my weirdly specific yet totally nebulous enjoyment of dark romance (featuring the mafia, secret societies, etc). I wish I could pinpoint why something works for me so that I don't have to just read and hope for the best but alas, I can't. But it's a personal problem - not necessarily an reflection of the authors or story.
This is insta between a completely unhinged assassin? enforcer? secret society member? Cade, and a lonely hacker (who is not very good at kidnapping but is trying his best), Ansel. The connection between the two feels tremulous but for the kind of story this is, they do make sense together. Ansel isn't used to being wanted or cared for and Cade really wants him and wants to take care of him. Wins all around. Not particularly deep but they were cute together so that covers a lot of sins.
The storyline has several holes and a good deal of it could've been avoided if the MCs had been honest with each other but, again, credibility wasn't what we were going for here. And I will admit that Ansel's actions toward the conclusion (the notes) actually made me tear up. Weirdly that one letter is the best written part of the whole book to me.
The big part that didn't work for me was the secret society bit. This is one of those times where I'm rolling my eyes and everything feels cheesy and OTT. I know I need to suspend my belief for these kinds of stories but sometimes I just can't and this was one of those times. Plus the dynamic of the family/Firm was ridiculous and not in the fun way.
I do want to give a special shout out to the hand feeding - this is the kind of caretaking I go absolutely feral for. Honestly, we should be seeing this more in our books. Also, Ansel having an equal amount of control in their sex life (and Cade being the one to go down on Ansel at every available moment) was an interesting deviation from the norm. I prefer a more D/s dynamic but for those who like to see a really equal footing between their MCs (including a big ass motherfucker getting dicked down by his twinkish boyfriend) then this will probably appeal.
I had skipped the first book in this series because second chance isn't my jam and now that I know that the "dark" element of this is the kind I don't really vibe with, I probably won't continue the series - although I'll admit that Neo and Wylder do have me curious, so we shall see.
Pet names: butterfly, Titan
“Grab some rope. You brought some with you, right? Tie me up. That’s the first thing you should do when kidnapping someone.” He stares at me, those pretty eyes blinking down at me. “I—what—no.” Bless him. This must be his first time.
I keep that thought to myself, at least for now. Like my brothers said, he doesn’t need to see all my crazy up front. We can save some for special occasions.
“You’re perfect.” His fingers slide through my hair and tighten, a painful twist. “And so are you. Now, wreck me, Titan. I want to see you burn for me.”
“Not good in an emergency” could be written on my gravestone
I think maybe I was meant to be yours.
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*
*
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Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: I guess it could be argued that Ansel was holding Cade hostage during their first few encounters but Cade absolutely wanted to be there. He basically kidnapped himself and was the one to initiate the encounters.
Other person drama: None.
December 20, 2025
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review.
Lark and Cora are back at it! This is the second book in their series The Firm and it’s absolutely thrilling. Ansel and Cade have an interesting meet cute. They have immediate chemistry and things take an interesting turn almost immediately. Ansel has a mission and Cade soon has a fixation/obsession on his hands. This story is utterly captivating, and surprising light, despite its dark romance leaning elements.
This book is very well paced with slightly unhinged intents and conversations. Cade is a little disturbed but he has a heart of gold, when it comes to the people he cares about. Ansel isn’t used to letting someone in; growing up in foster care made him wary, but he’s drawn to Cade in a way that he cannot deny. Both Cade and Ansel have something that they are hiding from the other. Despite coming from different worlds, Ansel can stand his ground. Both men know that they are it for one another. Their fiery chemistry and connection are tested, however, when a nefarious group try to break them apart, but it’s nothing these two MCs can’t overcome.
I am a fan of how fast and hard Cade and Ansel fall for one another. Butterfly and Titan are made for each other and their devotion to one another is top tier. Their journey is both unpredictable and delightful, right up until their happy ending. It was great seeing the other Buckingham brothers in this story. They are intriguing in all the best ways. That said, I am absolutely feral for Neo and Wylder’s story - up next in the series!
This is my honest and voluntary review.
Lark and Cora are back at it! This is the second book in their series The Firm and it’s absolutely thrilling. Ansel and Cade have an interesting meet cute. They have immediate chemistry and things take an interesting turn almost immediately. Ansel has a mission and Cade soon has a fixation/obsession on his hands. This story is utterly captivating, and surprising light, despite its dark romance leaning elements.
This book is very well paced with slightly unhinged intents and conversations. Cade is a little disturbed but he has a heart of gold, when it comes to the people he cares about. Ansel isn’t used to letting someone in; growing up in foster care made him wary, but he’s drawn to Cade in a way that he cannot deny. Both Cade and Ansel have something that they are hiding from the other. Despite coming from different worlds, Ansel can stand his ground. Both men know that they are it for one another. Their fiery chemistry and connection are tested, however, when a nefarious group try to break them apart, but it’s nothing these two MCs can’t overcome.
I am a fan of how fast and hard Cade and Ansel fall for one another. Butterfly and Titan are made for each other and their devotion to one another is top tier. Their journey is both unpredictable and delightful, right up until their happy ending. It was great seeing the other Buckingham brothers in this story. They are intriguing in all the best ways. That said, I am absolutely feral for Neo and Wylder’s story - up next in the series!
December 8, 2025
"He may not realize it, but I'm giving him pieces of me. I just hope he cherishes them. Not many do."
Deviant by Cora Rose and Lark Taylor
I had so much fun reading this book! This series continues to deliver everything I love, sharp humor, addictive chemistry, and a cast of characters who leap off the page. Cade’s sarcasm and magnetic personality absolutely stole the show. His charm practically radiates, and apparently Ansel agrees, because resisting Cade is… not something he’s capable of. Even in the middle of a kidnapping, these two manage to be hilarious, chaotic, and ridiculously entertaining.
Cora and Lark also shine, adding that perfect touch of warmth and tenderness that softens the darker moments without ever taking away from the tension.
Ansel, my sweet down on his luck hacker, really stumbled into the biggest (and most questionable) job of his life, kidnapping someone. As a first timer, he has no idea what he’s doing, and the entire sequence is laugh out loud funny once you realize why “successful” needs quotation marks. His captive practically skips into the cabin, while Ansel is spiraling in fear and guilt. What makes Ansel so lovable, though, is the heart behind his actions. Even when he’s in over his head, his loyalty, protectiveness, and courage shine through. You can’t help but root for him, and, honestly, want to yell the truth at Cade.
And Cade… my delightful, unhinged king. Who else would call his own kidnapping a date? Who else would genuinely enjoy it? Only Cade. His humor, charm, and ability to find joy in absolute chaos had me giggling constantly. But even in his quieter, sadder moments, he’s written with so much heart that you can’t help but feel for him.
This truly is a “can’t put it down” kind of book. The entire family is chaotic in the best way, each character full of personality and depth. Even Cade’s grumpy brother pulls you in without trying. I’m completely obsessed with this series, and I cannot wait for the next book and more of this wild, lovable family and their sweet, chaotic boyfriends.
Deviant by Cora Rose and Lark Taylor
I had so much fun reading this book! This series continues to deliver everything I love, sharp humor, addictive chemistry, and a cast of characters who leap off the page. Cade’s sarcasm and magnetic personality absolutely stole the show. His charm practically radiates, and apparently Ansel agrees, because resisting Cade is… not something he’s capable of. Even in the middle of a kidnapping, these two manage to be hilarious, chaotic, and ridiculously entertaining.
Cora and Lark also shine, adding that perfect touch of warmth and tenderness that softens the darker moments without ever taking away from the tension.
Ansel, my sweet down on his luck hacker, really stumbled into the biggest (and most questionable) job of his life, kidnapping someone. As a first timer, he has no idea what he’s doing, and the entire sequence is laugh out loud funny once you realize why “successful” needs quotation marks. His captive practically skips into the cabin, while Ansel is spiraling in fear and guilt. What makes Ansel so lovable, though, is the heart behind his actions. Even when he’s in over his head, his loyalty, protectiveness, and courage shine through. You can’t help but root for him, and, honestly, want to yell the truth at Cade.
And Cade… my delightful, unhinged king. Who else would call his own kidnapping a date? Who else would genuinely enjoy it? Only Cade. His humor, charm, and ability to find joy in absolute chaos had me giggling constantly. But even in his quieter, sadder moments, he’s written with so much heart that you can’t help but feel for him.
This truly is a “can’t put it down” kind of book. The entire family is chaotic in the best way, each character full of personality and depth. Even Cade’s grumpy brother pulls you in without trying. I’m completely obsessed with this series, and I cannot wait for the next book and more of this wild, lovable family and their sweet, chaotic boyfriends.
December 4, 2025
4,5⭐️
DEVIANT, by Cora Rose & Lark Taylor is book two in “ The Firm” series and follows the love story between Cade and Ansel.
You guys, trust me when I say, you absolutely need to read this delicious romance, which starts off as a kidnapping gone wrong.
Although you may think they are two very different men (one extremely confident and the other totally insecure - especially given the circumstances they met), their chemistry is absolutely off the charts from the very first pages.
An my “boy” Cade - insert me swooning here- is deliciously possessive, unhinged and overly protective of Ansel . Besties, I ate this up.
Although both MCs have quite traumatic pasts, and we get to witness both of them being vulnerable and open to each other 🥹,the humour with which Cora & Lark chose to tell their love story is delicious.
To be honest, I can’t recommend this enough and I am sending a huge thank you to @theauthor.agency & the authors for this ARC. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Tropes :
🔥kidnapping gone wrong
🖤forced proximity
🔥only one bed
🖤touch him and d!e
🔥secret society
🖤obsessive mc
🔥found family
🖤mm romance
DEVIANT, by Cora Rose & Lark Taylor is book two in “ The Firm” series and follows the love story between Cade and Ansel.
You guys, trust me when I say, you absolutely need to read this delicious romance, which starts off as a kidnapping gone wrong.
Although you may think they are two very different men (one extremely confident and the other totally insecure - especially given the circumstances they met), their chemistry is absolutely off the charts from the very first pages.
An my “boy” Cade - insert me swooning here- is deliciously possessive, unhinged and overly protective of Ansel . Besties, I ate this up.
Although both MCs have quite traumatic pasts, and we get to witness both of them being vulnerable and open to each other 🥹,the humour with which Cora & Lark chose to tell their love story is delicious.
To be honest, I can’t recommend this enough and I am sending a huge thank you to @theauthor.agency & the authors for this ARC. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Tropes :
🔥kidnapping gone wrong
🖤forced proximity
🔥only one bed
🖤touch him and d!e
🔥secret society
🖤obsessive mc
🔥found family
🖤mm romance
November 29, 2025
ARC Review
5⭐
Did I read this book in one sitting? Yes. Yes, I did! I was so curious when I read the epilogue of Covenant, I was like: OMG, Deviant is gonna be so, so good! And guess what? It. Did. Not. Disappoint! I was hooked from the very start. 😍
I mean, Ansel had just one thing to do: kidnap Brad. And he managed to kidnap the WRONG Brad! 😂😂😂 Jeez, I laughed so damn hard! Their banter was exceptional! They had me laughing, giggling, snorting, cackling, and everything in between. 🤭😂
Also, can we take a moment to talk about the brothers’ dynamic? The six of them together? Oh boy, PRECIOUS (and scary, ngl 😳)! 😂😂😂 I love them so much, it's not even funny. 🤭😂
I loved how obsessed with one another Cade and Ansel are. 🥹 They'd do anything to protect each other, and that's so beautiful, ugh. 😭😭💙
The writing was so addictive, that's the kind of writing I'm here for. When you don't even notice the time pass, and the next thing you know, you finished reading the damn book. Yes. Please. 🥹💙
And now I'm so ready for Neo and Wylder's book! 😍😍😍
5⭐
Did I read this book in one sitting? Yes. Yes, I did! I was so curious when I read the epilogue of Covenant, I was like: OMG, Deviant is gonna be so, so good! And guess what? It. Did. Not. Disappoint! I was hooked from the very start. 😍
I mean, Ansel had just one thing to do: kidnap Brad. And he managed to kidnap the WRONG Brad! 😂😂😂 Jeez, I laughed so damn hard! Their banter was exceptional! They had me laughing, giggling, snorting, cackling, and everything in between. 🤭😂
Also, can we take a moment to talk about the brothers’ dynamic? The six of them together? Oh boy, PRECIOUS (and scary, ngl 😳)! 😂😂😂 I love them so much, it's not even funny. 🤭😂
I loved how obsessed with one another Cade and Ansel are. 🥹 They'd do anything to protect each other, and that's so beautiful, ugh. 😭😭💙
The writing was so addictive, that's the kind of writing I'm here for. When you don't even notice the time pass, and the next thing you know, you finished reading the damn book. Yes. Please. 🥹💙
And now I'm so ready for Neo and Wylder's book! 😍😍😍
November 28, 2025
If you're looking for murdery golden retriever vibes and a kidnapping meet cute - this is definitely the story for you.
Y'all, I LOVED Cade and Ansel.
I wasn't even through the first chapter and I thought "this book is gonna be so much fun" and I was 100% correct.
It wouldn't be a Lark book if I didn't cry, and there was a scene that broke my heart, and I wasn't even mad about it.
The nicknames in this story had me all torn up, in the best way. These two are so down bad for each other it's bonkers.
Similar to Covenant, the family bonding scenes had me in hysterics, these brothers are absolutely unhinged.
Ansel and Cade were both charming when they needed to be, and broken by their pasts, but they've pushed their way into lives that thankfully had them crossing paths.
If you've read Cora's mafia series you'll understand this: Cade reminded me of Bane. A lunatic for sure, but sweet in the way where you wanna wrap a blanket around him and bring him hot chocolate. His obsession with Ansel was immediate and lovely.
This story was fantastic and I can NOT wait to read Wylder and Neo's book. Oh I hope they have a book.
DEVIANT is out December 5th! It is not one to miss. I loved them.
Y'all, I LOVED Cade and Ansel.
I wasn't even through the first chapter and I thought "this book is gonna be so much fun" and I was 100% correct.
It wouldn't be a Lark book if I didn't cry, and there was a scene that broke my heart, and I wasn't even mad about it.
The nicknames in this story had me all torn up, in the best way. These two are so down bad for each other it's bonkers.
Similar to Covenant, the family bonding scenes had me in hysterics, these brothers are absolutely unhinged.
Ansel and Cade were both charming when they needed to be, and broken by their pasts, but they've pushed their way into lives that thankfully had them crossing paths.
If you've read Cora's mafia series you'll understand this: Cade reminded me of Bane. A lunatic for sure, but sweet in the way where you wanna wrap a blanket around him and bring him hot chocolate. His obsession with Ansel was immediate and lovely.
This story was fantastic and I can NOT wait to read Wylder and Neo's book. Oh I hope they have a book.
DEVIANT is out December 5th! It is not one to miss. I loved them.
November 29, 2025
Immediately yes!!! Ansel and Cade were everything!! I loved their story so much. I was already excited for this one just from the little bit we see them in the first book, but it was even better than I was expecting! Deviant hooked me from page one and I couldn’t put it down. I love this family so much and I can’t wait for all of them to get their HEA’s.
December 13, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up
Seriously, this Cora Rose & Lark Taylor combo is one of the best things to ever happen. What a ride this one was! Exactly the type of darker, slightly unhinged, obsessive, possessive romance I do love so very much. And hilarious. Can't forget that. I mean... At first, it basically was just:
Ansel: *kidnaps Cade... a bit clumsily. It's his first time, okay??*
Cade: *happily goes along with it, provides quality advice* What an amazing first date this is!
I'm not even kidding. It was epic. And hilarious.
It wasn't all fun and games, though. On one side we have the romance that blooms between these two and it's epic. Their chemistry is scorching hot and it's just so wonderfully intense that it made me ache. Also, while Cade is definitely the most unhinged of the two (in the best way), Ansel has a bit of it in him too and I was LIVING for it.
And on the other side we have the dangerous situation Ansel is in that's ever-present. Sometimes it's more in the background, but the tension never fully goes away. And, folks... it definitely reaches a boiling point. And my heart screamed. Going to warn you now, there are some intense scenes in this one that aren't for the faint of heart - or those who have sensitive stomachs, so please mind the content warnings, lovelies.
All in all, another great book in what promises to be an epic series. I can't wait for the next book. I'm not going to spoil the next couple, because you won't understand my excitement anyway until you read this one. But trust me, you won't want to miss out on any of it.
I received an ARC of this book through The Author Agency in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
Seriously, this Cora Rose & Lark Taylor combo is one of the best things to ever happen. What a ride this one was! Exactly the type of darker, slightly unhinged, obsessive, possessive romance I do love so very much. And hilarious. Can't forget that. I mean... At first, it basically was just:
Ansel: *kidnaps Cade... a bit clumsily. It's his first time, okay??*
Cade: *happily goes along with it, provides quality advice* What an amazing first date this is!
I'm not even kidding. It was epic. And hilarious.
It wasn't all fun and games, though. On one side we have the romance that blooms between these two and it's epic. Their chemistry is scorching hot and it's just so wonderfully intense that it made me ache. Also, while Cade is definitely the most unhinged of the two (in the best way), Ansel has a bit of it in him too and I was LIVING for it.
And on the other side we have the dangerous situation Ansel is in that's ever-present. Sometimes it's more in the background, but the tension never fully goes away. And, folks... it definitely reaches a boiling point. And my heart screamed. Going to warn you now, there are some intense scenes in this one that aren't for the faint of heart - or those who have sensitive stomachs, so please mind the content warnings, lovelies.
All in all, another great book in what promises to be an epic series. I can't wait for the next book. I'm not going to spoil the next couple, because you won't understand my excitement anyway until you read this one. But trust me, you won't want to miss out on any of it.
I received an ARC of this book through The Author Agency in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
December 16, 2025
Murderous golden retriever energy. Slay.
December 20, 2025
Deviant
The Firm Book 2
Cora Rose & Lark Taylor
Cade & Ansel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Kidnapping Gone Wrong
Forced Proximity
Only One Bed
Touch Him and D1e
Secret Society
Obsessive MC
Found Family
So, again, Cora Rose and Lark Taylor are some of my favorite authors, this was fantastic, as was the first book in the series.
This was lighter though, so funny, I actually laughed out loud so much, especially in the first ⅓ lol.
Also when all the brothers are together with their partners and such, what chaos, what a riot, they are all fantastic.
This starts out with a ridiculous kidnapping gone wrong meet-cute, lol. Cade loving every second of this, goes along with being kidnapped, even giving Ansel tips and pointers how to do it better lol
“This is the best first date I’ve ever had.”
“Tie me up, butterfly,” I say with an encouraging smile. “Rope, if you have it.” Ansel rolls his eyes. “I’m doing that. Jesus. Don’t micromanage me.”
Cade was instantly obsessed with Ansel. Both men are the definition of opposites attract. Cade, rolling in money and affluence, and Ansel scraping by with his best friend Neo, taking on ethical hacker jobs.
Cade has not had it easy, none of his brothers have, their father was awful. Cade has some serious trauma from it. He was so unhinged and so sweet, lol
They find a way to work, though, they are so sweet and hot. So needy and desperate for each other despite their differences. Cade was willing to do anything for Ansel.
Ansel has secrets, reasons why he k !d napped Cade. Those secrets eventually come back to bite him, and then Cade.
I don’t want to give too much away, this is a book you should just read, and go in blind. I loved it, honestly cannot wait for the next in the series. It’s going to be incredible.
“You can be anything you want to be, my love. I’ll let you spread your wings and fly.” He sighs, our bodies tucked into each other. “You mean it?” “I do.”
Fantastic Book
So thankful for this arc
The Firm Book 2
Cora Rose & Lark Taylor
Cade & Ansel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
Kidnapping Gone Wrong
Forced Proximity
Only One Bed
Touch Him and D1e
Secret Society
Obsessive MC
Found Family
So, again, Cora Rose and Lark Taylor are some of my favorite authors, this was fantastic, as was the first book in the series.
This was lighter though, so funny, I actually laughed out loud so much, especially in the first ⅓ lol.
Also when all the brothers are together with their partners and such, what chaos, what a riot, they are all fantastic.
This starts out with a ridiculous kidnapping gone wrong meet-cute, lol. Cade loving every second of this, goes along with being kidnapped, even giving Ansel tips and pointers how to do it better lol
“This is the best first date I’ve ever had.”
“Tie me up, butterfly,” I say with an encouraging smile. “Rope, if you have it.” Ansel rolls his eyes. “I’m doing that. Jesus. Don’t micromanage me.”
Cade was instantly obsessed with Ansel. Both men are the definition of opposites attract. Cade, rolling in money and affluence, and Ansel scraping by with his best friend Neo, taking on ethical hacker jobs.
Cade has not had it easy, none of his brothers have, their father was awful. Cade has some serious trauma from it. He was so unhinged and so sweet, lol
They find a way to work, though, they are so sweet and hot. So needy and desperate for each other despite their differences. Cade was willing to do anything for Ansel.
Ansel has secrets, reasons why he k !d napped Cade. Those secrets eventually come back to bite him, and then Cade.
I don’t want to give too much away, this is a book you should just read, and go in blind. I loved it, honestly cannot wait for the next in the series. It’s going to be incredible.
“You can be anything you want to be, my love. I’ll let you spread your wings and fly.” He sighs, our bodies tucked into each other. “You mean it?” “I do.”
Fantastic Book
So thankful for this arc
December 22, 2025
3.5 ⭐
It's one of those ones where when you suspend your beliefs, you actually come to enjoy it, kinda. This had me laughing out loud in the first half, and well, Cade was certifiable unhinged, and he was rather funny, though I'm sure he would say that it wasn't intentional. Meeting his wayward family was a lot of fun, too, they're all different brands of unhinged.
I am however, intrigued by Cade's brothers; Dalton and Jackson and Wylder and Neo: they both intrigue me, will be interested to see what happens with them and their respective books.
It's one of those ones where when you suspend your beliefs, you actually come to enjoy it, kinda. This had me laughing out loud in the first half, and well, Cade was certifiable unhinged, and he was rather funny, though I'm sure he would say that it wasn't intentional. Meeting his wayward family was a lot of fun, too, they're all different brands of unhinged.
I am however, intrigued by Cade's brothers; Dalton and Jackson and Wylder and Neo: they both intrigue me, will be interested to see what happens with them and their respective books.
January 7, 2026
3 stars
I actually liked it. I loved crazy family dynamics. And I'm excited about the next book.
I actually liked it. I loved crazy family dynamics. And I'm excited about the next book.
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