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Southern Style #3
The Fall of the Red Queen
Madlyn Robicheaux earned her reputation as the Red Queen. She crushes her opponents with a calculated ruthlessness that never loses. Jared Marshall is a distraction she doesn’t want or need. Even worse, he’s a threat. If she’s not careful, he could blow the lid off everything she’s spent ten years protecting, but crushing Jared is proving as impossible as resisting him.
Jared Marshall hates being a lawyer, he’d rather play with his band at Trick’s or make cheesecake at his bakery. His one shot at avoiding the family firm rests on convincing the Red Queen to join Marshall and Marshall. But when his legendary charm fails, he falls straight through the looking glass where nothing is as it seems. And the chemistry that blows up between them exposes a shocking vulnerability that questions everything he’s ever believed about her.
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The Fall of the Red Queen is Book 3 in the Southern Style Series. While it can stand alone, it’s highly recommended that you read Sweetened with a Kiss first. Not a serial. Each book in the Southern Style Series features a different couple with standalone HEA. It's category style contemporary romance told in third person from the point of view of both hero and heroine. It has been professionally edited, copy-edited and proofed. Intended for mature audiences only.
THE FALL OF THE RED QUEEN weaves a fascinating storyline and larger-than-life characters with super intense sexual chemistry. The wicked witch and the bad boy have never been so good together. This book elevates Callahan's Southern Style Series into something really special and unforgettable. It made me cry, and I don't do that very often reading romance. Don't miss this beautifully-written, sexy, and emotional addition to the series. Highly Recommend.
Grade: A+
Penny Watson, Bestselling author of APPLES SHOULD BE RED
Jared Marshall hates being a lawyer, he’d rather play with his band at Trick’s or make cheesecake at his bakery. His one shot at avoiding the family firm rests on convincing the Red Queen to join Marshall and Marshall. But when his legendary charm fails, he falls straight through the looking glass where nothing is as it seems. And the chemistry that blows up between them exposes a shocking vulnerability that questions everything he’s ever believed about her.
--------------------------------------------------
The Fall of the Red Queen is Book 3 in the Southern Style Series. While it can stand alone, it’s highly recommended that you read Sweetened with a Kiss first. Not a serial. Each book in the Southern Style Series features a different couple with standalone HEA. It's category style contemporary romance told in third person from the point of view of both hero and heroine. It has been professionally edited, copy-edited and proofed. Intended for mature audiences only.
THE FALL OF THE RED QUEEN weaves a fascinating storyline and larger-than-life characters with super intense sexual chemistry. The wicked witch and the bad boy have never been so good together. This book elevates Callahan's Southern Style Series into something really special and unforgettable. It made me cry, and I don't do that very often reading romance. Don't miss this beautifully-written, sexy, and emotional addition to the series. Highly Recommend.
Grade: A+
Penny Watson, Bestselling author of APPLES SHOULD BE RED
252 pages, ebook
First published January 26, 2016
5 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
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January 25, 2016
I LOVE a good paradigm shift : That’s something that many authors attempt and not many succeed at, because let’s face it - that old saying about never getting a second chance to make a first impression? It’s the truth. For an author to take what they’ve essentially established about a character, made their audience loathe that character, then twist it on its head WITHOUT the ensuing cries of “that’s such a retcon cop-out!” is no mean feat. Ms. Callahan has pulled it off here, and done it in a way that I really enjoyed. When I start off thinking a character’s a right See You Next Tuesday and by the end, I’m feeling so badly that I want to hug it out with her, well, that’s a win in my book.
The Setup : When our story begins, Madlyn Robichaux is the undisputed Head Beeyotch of the Southern Style series. She’s earned her reputation and she wears it like bulletproof armor, warning everyone to stay away from her. Well, except for Jared Marshall - he knows the Red Queen is evil, but he never did like taking no for an answer. To please his family, he got his law degree, but to avoid being a full time attorney, he plans on bringing Maddie into the family law firm and letting her take on partnership responsibilities with his brother. It sounds like a good plan, right? The firm gets a real shark for a lawyer and Jared can go on his merry way. But then he gets to know the woman behind the Red Queen, and nothing is as it seems. As you may have guessed by now, yup...romance happens.
Hit the ground running : While I think you can read this without having read the first couple of books, it would lose a little bit of heat because they jump right into it - they were all on each other from the very beginning and that could be jarring if you weren’t familiar with their dynamic from the first book. It was a bit of whiplash and I had to re-familiarize myself with the ‘verse and remember the players. Even if you had, I don’t think you’d expect them to be physical with each other so quickly. That said, holy smokes….
Sex is on FIRE : Maybe too much - there seemed to be alot of fire and electricity references. But still - serious hotness that drew me into their romance and I thought their chemistry was strong. I’ll admit there’s several sexy, sexy moments, like the drawings on her skin, that made me want to fan myself. The story is as steamy as the locale, since they are in New Orleans, after all.
Solid relationships all around : I think the characters all interact in a believable manner and there’s plenty of enjoyable, humorous banter between them all. Seeing the heroes and heroines from the other books is great, because they enrich without overwhelming the current story. Better yet, I loved getting to know Jared’s family. Romances are so much richer and fun to read when they aren’t conducted in a vacuum, and the Southern Style series ‘verse has grown with every book.
Maddie, you won me over : I usually make notes when reviewing a book, because my mind? Like swiss cheese these days and remembering little points can drive me batty. Anyway, I bring this up because when the thought of Maddie being the heroine rolled around, I wondered. In fact, reading this I made this note - “I'm confused - her grandfather is [spoiler] but she won't [spoiler]. It has to be huge to convince me why she won't scheme to get him away from him.” A couple lines down when the reveal happened - “Damn. Yep, that’s huge.” Maddie doesn’t turn into a soft, fluffy puppy and she retains some of her edges, but they are softened by her sacrifices and the reader getting a chance to know her so well.
Jared, you had me at hello, honey : Jared had no such hurdles to overcome, to be honest. He was a hottie from the moment I read about him in the first book, and *whispers* if he had won instead of Stefan in Sweetened with a Kiss, I’d have been ok with that. *looks around* Ahem. Anyway, but all things work out the way they should and I think Jared’s a good foil for Maddie. He’s kind of that gamma hero (an awesome blend of an alpha and a beta) that I favor. Maddie may like having her way, but when Jared gets all grr, I get all buttery. Speaking of buttery tasty things...
Hot men everywhere I see : This was just a few of my notes about them “Well hello Drew.” “Grant needs his own story.” “Rafe huh? Lexxi keeps introducing these potentially yummy men. I heartily approve.” Basically, there are hot Southern men coming out of the woodwork in this series and I’d love to see them all get their chance to find their women.
[4.75 stars]
Ms. Callahan has mightily surprised me with this book - she is starting to hit her stride with this series and I think this is the sexiest and most emotionally satisfying one so far. I love me a good paradigm shift and this certainly has it in spades. I definitely recommend giving this a read. I can't wait to read the next one.
**ARC provided by author for review**
February 3, 2016
Originally posted at SmexyBooks-http://smexybooks.com/2016/02/review-...
Redemption of a character isn’t an easy task. Especially if the author did an exceptional job of convincing the reader that the character in question was nothing more than as presented. Madlyn Robicheaux is such a character. In book one of this series, Sweetened With A Kiss, Callihan introduced us to Madlyn and made sure we knew she was the villain of the storyline and we would despise her. And we did. She belittled her dead fiancee’s sister, Jen, convincing her that the love of her life only felt pity for her and wanted her for her money. She helped her grandfather kidnap, drug, and then try to have the Jen’s marriage annulled so they could gain control over her fortune. She has maneuvered, schemed, lied, and if all else failed, crushed her opponents.
EVIL!
But as the old saying goes, there are three sides to every story. Your side, their side, and the truth. And Callihan is here to show us the truth of Madlyn Robicheaux- The Red Queen. With a lot of help from the oh so sexy Jared Marshall.
The Fall of the Red Queen is a romance contemporary drenched in heartbreak and pain that blows apart the preconceived notions that have been built by the first two books. A story of love, hope, redemption, and second chances. I highly recommend reading the first two books of the series, at least –Sweetened With A Kiss-as it provides the backstory to the events taking place in here and offers an interesting contrast to the characters we thought we knew to what we are learning now. The long game that Callihan has been creating is finally coming to an end with some explosive revelations. All the pain, sorrow, and cruelty the Red Queen has caused can be summed in one word…love.
“Emotion was a weakness he’d exploit in a heartbeat.”
Madlyn had her life all planned out at age nineteen until tragedy takes everything from her. From that day on, she has be forced to make difficult choices; choices that could spell life or death for people she loves. And every time she is forced to choose, she loses another piece of her soul. As a mother, I fully understand the emotions that have guided Madlyn. I would do anything for my daughter, even if it meant burning the world down around me. And while I fervently wished Madlyn would have had someone to lean on in the past, I’m so glad that Jared finally arrives to help.
“She’s been happy once. She didn’t expect to be or want to be again.”
Jared has always had it pretty easy. As the baby of the family, his every wish has been granted. From his music to his baking, Jared has been free to pursue his dreams up to a certain point. With his father slowly removing himself from the family law practice, Jared is suppose to come on board and help his brother Grant…unless he can convince Madlyn to take his place. Then he will be free to live his life as he chooses.
“Be a good messenger boy. Go back and tell your daddy I said no.”
Let the games begin!
The chemistry between Madlyn and Jared zings off the pages from their first meeting. Jared starts out poking and prodding Madlyn, wanting to see what’s beneath her icy exterior. The result is a hot fiery sparks that nip your fingers as we watch their insults turn to foreplay and the resulting passion take them both out of their comfort zones. Jared never expected to actually be attracted to her but the die is cast and the couple embarks on a journey that will leave them all a little battered and bloody when all is said and done.
“Don’t fuck with me, Madlyn.”
“But I want to so very much.”
Well matched in crucial ways; they are both victims of family ambitions and feel forced to push aside their own dreams in order to maintain the peace, it’s their contrasts that intrigue the reader. Tattooed & pierced Jared brings laughter and fun into the straight-laced & tightly buttoned up Madlyn’s life, something that has been sorely lacking. She feels so undeserving of it all and the lengths she has gone to punish herself is heartbreaking. Madlyn in return doesn’t put Jared in a box and sees the intelligence and hard worker beneath his laissez-faire exterior.
I loved that Jared doesn’t allow his personal feelings over past events to completely color his perceptions of Madlyn. He is a perceptive man and he sees the chinks in her armor. He pushes her to reveal more of herself, with each interaction and both suffers and marvels over her strength and perseverance. Even when she pushes him away, he’s always there for her.
“Tell me you’re not trying to save me.”
“I’m not.”
[…]
“I don’t want to save you. I don’t want to change you. You’re perfect”
The story flows at a steady pace, spilling the past and the present from Madlyn’s eyes so we understand exactly what happened 10 years ago and why Madlyn did what she did. My heart broke, I won’t lie. I had some suspicions but seeing it all spelled out in black and white was still shocking. As Madlyn and Jared work through their attraction, Madlyn is still maneuvering behind the scenes and gearing up for the final battle. Lush revealing dialogue helps to blend the romance with the conflict, making sure neither is overpowered or regulated to the corner.
While there were some odd phrases that didn’t come across as I think the author intended and sometimes the character changes weren’t always crystal clear, the story was what I had hoped for and more. Callihan not only made me understand Madlyn but completely won me over to her side. She sacrificed everything for love and finally won her redemption.
GRADE: B+
Redemption of a character isn’t an easy task. Especially if the author did an exceptional job of convincing the reader that the character in question was nothing more than as presented. Madlyn Robicheaux is such a character. In book one of this series, Sweetened With A Kiss, Callihan introduced us to Madlyn and made sure we knew she was the villain of the storyline and we would despise her. And we did. She belittled her dead fiancee’s sister, Jen, convincing her that the love of her life only felt pity for her and wanted her for her money. She helped her grandfather kidnap, drug, and then try to have the Jen’s marriage annulled so they could gain control over her fortune. She has maneuvered, schemed, lied, and if all else failed, crushed her opponents.
EVIL!
But as the old saying goes, there are three sides to every story. Your side, their side, and the truth. And Callihan is here to show us the truth of Madlyn Robicheaux- The Red Queen. With a lot of help from the oh so sexy Jared Marshall.
The Fall of the Red Queen is a romance contemporary drenched in heartbreak and pain that blows apart the preconceived notions that have been built by the first two books. A story of love, hope, redemption, and second chances. I highly recommend reading the first two books of the series, at least –Sweetened With A Kiss-as it provides the backstory to the events taking place in here and offers an interesting contrast to the characters we thought we knew to what we are learning now. The long game that Callihan has been creating is finally coming to an end with some explosive revelations. All the pain, sorrow, and cruelty the Red Queen has caused can be summed in one word…love.
“Emotion was a weakness he’d exploit in a heartbeat.”
Madlyn had her life all planned out at age nineteen until tragedy takes everything from her. From that day on, she has be forced to make difficult choices; choices that could spell life or death for people she loves. And every time she is forced to choose, she loses another piece of her soul. As a mother, I fully understand the emotions that have guided Madlyn. I would do anything for my daughter, even if it meant burning the world down around me. And while I fervently wished Madlyn would have had someone to lean on in the past, I’m so glad that Jared finally arrives to help.
“She’s been happy once. She didn’t expect to be or want to be again.”
Jared has always had it pretty easy. As the baby of the family, his every wish has been granted. From his music to his baking, Jared has been free to pursue his dreams up to a certain point. With his father slowly removing himself from the family law practice, Jared is suppose to come on board and help his brother Grant…unless he can convince Madlyn to take his place. Then he will be free to live his life as he chooses.
“Be a good messenger boy. Go back and tell your daddy I said no.”
Let the games begin!
The chemistry between Madlyn and Jared zings off the pages from their first meeting. Jared starts out poking and prodding Madlyn, wanting to see what’s beneath her icy exterior. The result is a hot fiery sparks that nip your fingers as we watch their insults turn to foreplay and the resulting passion take them both out of their comfort zones. Jared never expected to actually be attracted to her but the die is cast and the couple embarks on a journey that will leave them all a little battered and bloody when all is said and done.
“Don’t fuck with me, Madlyn.”
“But I want to so very much.”
Well matched in crucial ways; they are both victims of family ambitions and feel forced to push aside their own dreams in order to maintain the peace, it’s their contrasts that intrigue the reader. Tattooed & pierced Jared brings laughter and fun into the straight-laced & tightly buttoned up Madlyn’s life, something that has been sorely lacking. She feels so undeserving of it all and the lengths she has gone to punish herself is heartbreaking. Madlyn in return doesn’t put Jared in a box and sees the intelligence and hard worker beneath his laissez-faire exterior.
I loved that Jared doesn’t allow his personal feelings over past events to completely color his perceptions of Madlyn. He is a perceptive man and he sees the chinks in her armor. He pushes her to reveal more of herself, with each interaction and both suffers and marvels over her strength and perseverance. Even when she pushes him away, he’s always there for her.
“Tell me you’re not trying to save me.”
“I’m not.”
[…]
“I don’t want to save you. I don’t want to change you. You’re perfect”
The story flows at a steady pace, spilling the past and the present from Madlyn’s eyes so we understand exactly what happened 10 years ago and why Madlyn did what she did. My heart broke, I won’t lie. I had some suspicions but seeing it all spelled out in black and white was still shocking. As Madlyn and Jared work through their attraction, Madlyn is still maneuvering behind the scenes and gearing up for the final battle. Lush revealing dialogue helps to blend the romance with the conflict, making sure neither is overpowered or regulated to the corner.
While there were some odd phrases that didn’t come across as I think the author intended and sometimes the character changes weren’t always crystal clear, the story was what I had hoped for and more. Callihan not only made me understand Madlyn but completely won me over to her side. She sacrificed everything for love and finally won her redemption.
GRADE: B+
January 18, 2016
ARC provided by author for honest review.
I really really tried to go into this with an open mind!!! DNF .
I have loved the previous books by this author and thought she might be able to redeem this heroine, but sadly it did not come to fruition. The heroine of this book was part of previous books and was my least favorite character. Who she was and what she did was was very off putting and unattractive.
So having said that, when I heard she was going to have her own book I was apprehensive but was willing to see if she could possibly be redeemed. Well the answer was no.
In fact I prevailed till the half way point in the book before I had to just throw in the towel. I'm sad to say she was unappealing in so many aspects; dialogue, behavior and character. Yes, people have bad things happen, endure hardship and sometimes make mistakes. But I believe and think that a person/character can overcome or redirect themselves to rise above and be better. Unfortuntaly for me personally this heroine just wasn't in the cards for me to like or enjoy reading.
I will continue to read this authors future books, just not this one.
I really really tried to go into this with an open mind!!! DNF .
I have loved the previous books by this author and thought she might be able to redeem this heroine, but sadly it did not come to fruition. The heroine of this book was part of previous books and was my least favorite character. Who she was and what she did was was very off putting and unattractive.
So having said that, when I heard she was going to have her own book I was apprehensive but was willing to see if she could possibly be redeemed. Well the answer was no.
In fact I prevailed till the half way point in the book before I had to just throw in the towel. I'm sad to say she was unappealing in so many aspects; dialogue, behavior and character. Yes, people have bad things happen, endure hardship and sometimes make mistakes. But I believe and think that a person/character can overcome or redirect themselves to rise above and be better. Unfortuntaly for me personally this heroine just wasn't in the cards for me to like or enjoy reading.
I will continue to read this authors future books, just not this one.
February 9, 2016
I just got completely blown away by this book (beta read). Insanely good. Amazing writing, storytelling, and characterization. The chemistry between the H and h is so sizzling hot, it's crazy. And I love that the evil witch gets her HEA.
Hot damn. Fabulous.
Hot damn. Fabulous.
December 21, 2015
I loved this book.
I remember when I finished reading the book #1 of this series and I thought, "OMG, Madlyn is so evil! I don't know if the author will be able to redeem her." I'm so glad I was wrong!
As Lexxi Callahan says in her note, "there are always two sides to every story", and that's what we have in The Fall of the Red Queen, Maddie's side. In this book, we get to understand why she did all that bad things to people she loves and how she died a little bit every time. But the "The Red Queen" is not all about sad things at all, it is also, IMO, a second chance book.
A long time ago Maddie had the opportunity to live her own love story with Robert - her late fiancé - but he died in a terrible car accident, and from that moment on she had to make so many difficult decisions in other to protect her loved ones that she thought she didn't deserve being loved anymore. But then Jared appears in her life and maybe, just maybe love can be a possibility again.
I loved them together, Jared brings something lighter and funnier to her life and those two can heat up the sheets. Those moments are very special and poignant. I loved that he didn't give up on her, even if she tried to push him away and even if the circumstances were not the best ones, he believed in her, and that was so precious!
Madlyn was totally redeemed here. Her story was believable to me, because when you love someone and wants to protect that person, you are capable of anything. That's Maddie, she's all about love and I'm sure you'll love to read this journey to her so deserved HEA as much as I did.
Make sure to read book #1 (Sweetened with a Kiss) first otherwise, you will miss the story's full emotional impact. It's a treat, Jen and Stefan's story is a very good one too. ;-)
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I remember when I finished reading the book #1 of this series and I thought, "OMG, Madlyn is so evil! I don't know if the author will be able to redeem her." I'm so glad I was wrong!
As Lexxi Callahan says in her note, "there are always two sides to every story", and that's what we have in The Fall of the Red Queen, Maddie's side. In this book, we get to understand why she did all that bad things to people she loves and how she died a little bit every time. But the "The Red Queen" is not all about sad things at all, it is also, IMO, a second chance book.
A long time ago Maddie had the opportunity to live her own love story with Robert - her late fiancé - but he died in a terrible car accident, and from that moment on she had to make so many difficult decisions in other to protect her loved ones that she thought she didn't deserve being loved anymore. But then Jared appears in her life and maybe, just maybe love can be a possibility again.
I loved them together, Jared brings something lighter and funnier to her life and those two can heat up the sheets. Those moments are very special and poignant. I loved that he didn't give up on her, even if she tried to push him away and even if the circumstances were not the best ones, he believed in her, and that was so precious!
Madlyn was totally redeemed here. Her story was believable to me, because when you love someone and wants to protect that person, you are capable of anything. That's Maddie, she's all about love and I'm sure you'll love to read this journey to her so deserved HEA as much as I did.
Make sure to read book #1 (Sweetened with a Kiss) first otherwise, you will miss the story's full emotional impact. It's a treat, Jen and Stefan's story is a very good one too. ;-)
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 27, 2015
Could I borrow the guy on the cover for a night ;)
This book is really hard to write a review for because it defied all my expectations. I hated Maddie's character from the first book and I knew there was absolutely no way to redeem her, so when I started reading this book I already knew I was going to hate it. Turns out Callahan not only redeemed her, but also made the characters and readers who hated her look bad! I felt horrible for hating and judging Maddie in the first book.
The book was also better written than the earlier ones.
There were a few issues though. First the whole kidnapping Jen incident was not clarified. Why was it necessary? Second the resolution took too long and was done too quickly. The book became a bit repetitive in the second half, and the whole grabbing and pushing each other away got a bit tedious. However I did not see the ending...I wanted the grandfather to suffer...not get a easy way out...but I also understood Maddie's reason for protecting him.
The emotional turmoil of Maddie was painful to read but very relatable...I unreservedly recommend this book. Do read the first book in the series if you want to feel the full impact of this one.
Disclaimer: Received this book for free for a honest review.
This book is really hard to write a review for because it defied all my expectations. I hated Maddie's character from the first book and I knew there was absolutely no way to redeem her, so when I started reading this book I already knew I was going to hate it. Turns out Callahan not only redeemed her, but also made the characters and readers who hated her look bad! I felt horrible for hating and judging Maddie in the first book.
The book was also better written than the earlier ones.
There were a few issues though. First the whole kidnapping Jen incident was not clarified. Why was it necessary? Second the resolution took too long and was done too quickly. The book became a bit repetitive in the second half, and the whole grabbing and pushing each other away got a bit tedious. However I did not see the ending...I wanted the grandfather to suffer...not get a easy way out...but I also understood Maddie's reason for protecting him.
The emotional turmoil of Maddie was painful to read but very relatable...I unreservedly recommend this book. Do read the first book in the series if you want to feel the full impact of this one.
Disclaimer: Received this book for free for a honest review.
December 25, 2015
5 Emotional Stars
The Fall of the Red Queen is Maddie's side of the story. We first met Madlyn in the first book and she was not a likable person. The book explained why she did all that bad things to people she loves and how she died a little bit every time. The book are not all about sad/bad things but also a second chance of redemption.
"there are always two sides to every story", -Lexxi Callahan.
Maddie is heartbroken and that is where Jared appears. He brings out the lighter and funnier side to her life and boy, can these two can heat up the sheets!! H.O.T. Maddie tried to keep Jared in arm length but he didn't give up on her, even if she tried to push him away. You want to find out what's going on? Then read it ;)
ARC received for my honest review.
The Fall of the Red Queen is Maddie's side of the story. We first met Madlyn in the first book and she was not a likable person. The book explained why she did all that bad things to people she loves and how she died a little bit every time. The book are not all about sad/bad things but also a second chance of redemption.
"there are always two sides to every story", -Lexxi Callahan.
Maddie is heartbroken and that is where Jared appears. He brings out the lighter and funnier side to her life and boy, can these two can heat up the sheets!! H.O.T. Maddie tried to keep Jared in arm length but he didn't give up on her, even if she tried to push him away. You want to find out what's going on? Then read it ;)
ARC received for my honest review.
August 16, 2015
I got to read this early as a beta reader and I think it's safe to say it's the best one of the uniformly excellent series.
January 15, 2016
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
When I first read that Lexxi Callahan was writing Madlyn's story my first thought was she was nuts. Second thought was that if she managed to a.) make me not hate The Red Queen and b.) make me like her then she would be a redemption genius. Guess what? Lexxi Calllahan is a redemption genius!
This is the third installment in the Southern Style series and I highly recommend you read the first two-especially Sweetened with a Kiss (book 1) to really get more of the backstory and because I feel Madlyn's redemption is so much better if you have.
Lexxi Callahan has created a version of New Orleans with some real evil characters that you just want to hate and good people that you just want to root for. I highly recommend this series if you are looking for some well written distractions form your everyday life.
p.s.-Google search images of apadravyas at your own risk!
When I first read that Lexxi Callahan was writing Madlyn's story my first thought was she was nuts. Second thought was that if she managed to a.) make me not hate The Red Queen and b.) make me like her then she would be a redemption genius. Guess what? Lexxi Calllahan is a redemption genius!
This is the third installment in the Southern Style series and I highly recommend you read the first two-especially Sweetened with a Kiss (book 1) to really get more of the backstory and because I feel Madlyn's redemption is so much better if you have.
Lexxi Callahan has created a version of New Orleans with some real evil characters that you just want to hate and good people that you just want to root for. I highly recommend this series if you are looking for some well written distractions form your everyday life.
p.s.-Google search images of apadravyas at your own risk!
March 15, 2016
I loved this book. It made me cry, and I'm a jaded romance reader, books don't make me cry! Terrific sexual tension, hot sex, and lots of angst. Totally my cuppa. :))
February 14, 2016
Review originally posted at http://fictionvixen.com/read-wednesda...
I went into this book with quite a bit of trepidation. I wasn’t sure Ms. Callihan could pull off the redemption of Madlyn Robicheaux, otherwise known as the Red Queen. If you’ve read the previous books in this series then you are familiar with her scheming, cold as ice ways. If not, well, let me give you an idea…. She ran Jen off after convincing her that Stefan felt nothing for her and only wanted to control her inheritance, and then helped her creepy, control freak Grandfather kidnap the poor woman AND THEN had a hand in helping him try to have Jen and Stefan’s marriage annulled all so they themselves could control that same inheritance. I mean this is one cold-hearted, cruel woman who will do anything she has to in order to win. She was irredeemable.
Or is she?
Enter in Jared Marshall. Jared has been sent in by his father and brother to talk Maddie into joining their law firm. If anyone can take on the Red Queen and charm her into taking his place in the family firm it’s too gorgeous for his own good, tattooed, pierced, talented Jared. As the surprise baby of the Marshall family, he was blessed from the moment he entered the world. There is not one thing he has wanted in life that he hasn’t been able to achieve. From working his way up in a premier restaurant to rocking on stage in various venues, Jared is tremendously talented. He attended law school and passed the bar to please his father, but it isn’t what he wants to do with his life. He needs to convince Madlyn to come on board.
I adored this book. Adored. It’s one of those books that if you start reading too close to bedtime you’ll find yourself up way too late just to finish one more chapter. Jared and Madlyn’s chemistry fairly sizzles the pages right from the get go. There is such animosity, yet the pull between them won’t let either of them leave the other alone. Even as they are throwing around threats and demands you can feel the sexual tension pulsing between them. It doesn’t take long before Madlyn starts to fall hard for Jared, which means all her defenses slowly begin to crumble and she has to work twice as hard to keep the terrible secrets she’s been holding onto for ten long years hidden. But, in the end, the truth does come out. Oh, and what a sad, horrible truth it is.
Trust me, Madlyn Robicheaux is redeemed and you will love her.
But for me, it was Jared who stole the show. Sweet, loyal, sexy as all hell Jared. Jared who loves his family and friends. Jared who patiently stands by Maddie even when she turns on the Red Queen persona. Who has too many piercings and tattoos and donates his hair for cancer patients. Who can cook a cheesecake and play guitar and scribble flowers and lace over his lover’s body with a sharpie. I dare you not to fall in love with his man. He was the absolute perfect hero for a woman as badly misunderstood and damaged as Madlyn Robicheaux. No woman in their right mind would be able to resist.
While I do think The Fall of the Red Queen can be read as a stand-alone, I would urge you to read at least the first book in the series to get some background on Madlyn and Jared. But don’t start reading before bedtime unless you’re prepared to be bleary eyed and tired the next morning. Trust me when I say you won’t want to put this book down.
Favorite Quote:
I went into this book with quite a bit of trepidation. I wasn’t sure Ms. Callihan could pull off the redemption of Madlyn Robicheaux, otherwise known as the Red Queen. If you’ve read the previous books in this series then you are familiar with her scheming, cold as ice ways. If not, well, let me give you an idea…. She ran Jen off after convincing her that Stefan felt nothing for her and only wanted to control her inheritance, and then helped her creepy, control freak Grandfather kidnap the poor woman AND THEN had a hand in helping him try to have Jen and Stefan’s marriage annulled all so they themselves could control that same inheritance. I mean this is one cold-hearted, cruel woman who will do anything she has to in order to win. She was irredeemable.
Or is she?
Enter in Jared Marshall. Jared has been sent in by his father and brother to talk Maddie into joining their law firm. If anyone can take on the Red Queen and charm her into taking his place in the family firm it’s too gorgeous for his own good, tattooed, pierced, talented Jared. As the surprise baby of the Marshall family, he was blessed from the moment he entered the world. There is not one thing he has wanted in life that he hasn’t been able to achieve. From working his way up in a premier restaurant to rocking on stage in various venues, Jared is tremendously talented. He attended law school and passed the bar to please his father, but it isn’t what he wants to do with his life. He needs to convince Madlyn to come on board.
I adored this book. Adored. It’s one of those books that if you start reading too close to bedtime you’ll find yourself up way too late just to finish one more chapter. Jared and Madlyn’s chemistry fairly sizzles the pages right from the get go. There is such animosity, yet the pull between them won’t let either of them leave the other alone. Even as they are throwing around threats and demands you can feel the sexual tension pulsing between them. It doesn’t take long before Madlyn starts to fall hard for Jared, which means all her defenses slowly begin to crumble and she has to work twice as hard to keep the terrible secrets she’s been holding onto for ten long years hidden. But, in the end, the truth does come out. Oh, and what a sad, horrible truth it is.
Trust me, Madlyn Robicheaux is redeemed and you will love her.
But for me, it was Jared who stole the show. Sweet, loyal, sexy as all hell Jared. Jared who loves his family and friends. Jared who patiently stands by Maddie even when she turns on the Red Queen persona. Who has too many piercings and tattoos and donates his hair for cancer patients. Who can cook a cheesecake and play guitar and scribble flowers and lace over his lover’s body with a sharpie. I dare you not to fall in love with his man. He was the absolute perfect hero for a woman as badly misunderstood and damaged as Madlyn Robicheaux. No woman in their right mind would be able to resist.
While I do think The Fall of the Red Queen can be read as a stand-alone, I would urge you to read at least the first book in the series to get some background on Madlyn and Jared. But don’t start reading before bedtime unless you’re prepared to be bleary eyed and tired the next morning. Trust me when I say you won’t want to put this book down.
Favorite Quote:
His forehead touched her shoulder, and his voice was shaky. “Because you love him. You love all of them. That’s why you’re not like him. You couldn’t be like him if you tried. You’re not the monster or the evil queen, Madlyn. You’re the while knight. When are you going to get that?”
April 2, 2016
How do you redeem a villain, or in this case a villainess? That's the question in this third book in the Southern Style series. Though each can be read as a standalone with a complete couple romance, to understand Madlyn it's best to have seen her before this story, when her actions made her seem like a calculated and cruel woman. No, not just seem like - she was calculating and cruel. But it was never understood why - until now.
This story had me alternately biting my nails, teary eyed, and smiling as we finally get to see what makes Madlyn tick. And even more importantly Jared gets to see the side of her that she's never exposed, that she kept hidden all these years and the reasons why. Recruiting her for his family's law firm is distasteful to him at the start, but necessary. And yet, once he gets beyond the surface, his reaction to Madlyn shocks him - that he can be attracted to someone who has caused his friends so much pain. But he is, and the sexual tension between them (only part of the nail biting phenomenon) culminates in some steamy and emotional love scenes as Madlyn's shell starts to crack. There are startling revelations, surprise twists and turns, but at its heart, it's a love story too. And not just romantic love, but the love of family and friends, the sacrifices one will make because of that love and the ultimate consequences. I've read and loved both books prior to this in the series, but for its heart and soul, this one is my favorite. 5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
This story had me alternately biting my nails, teary eyed, and smiling as we finally get to see what makes Madlyn tick. And even more importantly Jared gets to see the side of her that she's never exposed, that she kept hidden all these years and the reasons why. Recruiting her for his family's law firm is distasteful to him at the start, but necessary. And yet, once he gets beyond the surface, his reaction to Madlyn shocks him - that he can be attracted to someone who has caused his friends so much pain. But he is, and the sexual tension between them (only part of the nail biting phenomenon) culminates in some steamy and emotional love scenes as Madlyn's shell starts to crack. There are startling revelations, surprise twists and turns, but at its heart, it's a love story too. And not just romantic love, but the love of family and friends, the sacrifices one will make because of that love and the ultimate consequences. I've read and loved both books prior to this in the series, but for its heart and soul, this one is my favorite. 5 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
January 3, 2016
The Fall of the Red Queen (Book 3 of Southern Style) by Lexxi Callahan
*ARC provided by Author*
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Madlyn): she was the reason why I couldn’t get into this book
Average score: 1/5 - DNF
Personal Review:
I was NOT looking forward to reading this book bcause of the h’s behaviour in the previous books, but as this was provided by the author I felt obliged to at least give it a go. If this was not an ARC I would not have even attempted to read it.
OK, I tried it and got as far as the third chapter but I am sorry. It did not hold my attention and I Did Not Finish (DNF) it.
I would have felt differently about this book if the h was not introduced as the OW in the first book in the series. You know what they say, first impressions count! And, until I started this book, I did not realise how much first impressions count when I read romance series.
Overall Feeling:
Not worth it
*ARC provided by Author*
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Madlyn): she was the reason why I couldn’t get into this book
Average score: 1/5 - DNF
Personal Review:
I was NOT looking forward to reading this book bcause of the h’s behaviour in the previous books, but as this was provided by the author I felt obliged to at least give it a go. If this was not an ARC I would not have even attempted to read it.
OK, I tried it and got as far as the third chapter but I am sorry. It did not hold my attention and I Did Not Finish (DNF) it.
I would have felt differently about this book if the h was not introduced as the OW in the first book in the series. You know what they say, first impressions count! And, until I started this book, I did not realise how much first impressions count when I read romance series.
Overall Feeling:
Not worth it
January 24, 2016
4.5 stars. I have read all the books in this series and I definitely enjoyed this one the most. I was worried that this would be a "hate each other" type book between the H/h which I really don't generally enjoy. But it isn't really like that. It's a really great redemption story and I can definitely see the author's growth as a writer in this story. I look forwad to seeing what she brings us in the future. You really need to read book 1 before this book.
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2016
Best book in the series so far. Hands down. So good.
More in-depth review coming closer to release date.
Copy for review provided by author
More in-depth review coming closer to release date.
Copy for review provided by author
February 21, 2016
What a book!! The Fall of the Red Queen" (Southern Style #3) - What a ride!!
This has been a surprising book from beginning to end. Great job Lexxi!!
This has been a surprising book from beginning to end. Great job Lexxi!!
January 28, 2016
4.5 Stars
Reviewed for Wicked Lil Pixie
When I first picked up The Fall of the Red Queen, I was expecting four things: southern drama, smoking hot chemistry, a big blowout, and a happily ever after. I got so much more. (I do recommend reading the entire series for backstory, but the characters are written so well you can pick this up as a stand alone.)
Madlyn comes across as a horrible person in the previous books, she’s kind of the “other woman” in Sweetened with a Kiss . Jen and Stefan’s story. *there is no cheating in the books* Madlyn had it all, a man she loved, a baby on the way, an extended family she would do anything for, and a bright future on the horizon. With one act, her entire world is shattered, and the Maddie everyone knows is replaced with The Red Queen.
Jared, let’s all just take a minute to picture Jared: tall with dark hair, hazel eyes, piercings, tattoos, and a killer smile, plays guitar, sings, bakes amazing confections, cooks professionally, and passed the bar. Sounds too good to be true? He’s better. He’s deeply caring about those he loves, he forms lasting bonds with people. He’s truly one of the good guys, and he has no idea what is about to hit him when he follows his family’s wishes to woo Madlyn over to the family law firm.
Robbie is the nine year old son of Madlyn and Robert (Jen’s deceased brother). He doesn’t get as much screen time in the book because Madlyn doesn’t have custody of him, but he makes an impact each time he’s on the page. Normally with kids in romance land, they are being cute or making a grown up feel better with their openness or love, not Robbie. Robbie comes across as another fully developed character in the book, he’s not just there as “background noise” or “oh hey, doesn’t XX have a kid?”, he’s a crucial part of the story and his feelings are just as important as Madlyn or Jared’s. Well done! Very well done.
Taking a character as nasty sounding as Madlyn and one as dreamy as Jared and pairing them up for the long haul doesn’t seem like it would work, but it really does. It works because Lexxi Callahan has penned characters with a depth that you normally don’t see in a single book. This type of character layering and growth is what you would normally see in a series of books about one or two main characters, many Urban Fantasy Series or the J.D. Robb books come to mind. Watching Madlyn and Jared unfold and actually earn their happily ever after is not to be missed!
I recommend this book to everyone. It has betrayal, music, food, family, fun, romance, hot-steamy sex, really hot sex, family drama, and one of the sweetest HEA’s ever penned. When your ereader is done smoking and you’re smiling happily through your tears, you’ll thank me for recommending this one :)
Reviewed for Wicked Lil Pixie
When I first picked up The Fall of the Red Queen, I was expecting four things: southern drama, smoking hot chemistry, a big blowout, and a happily ever after. I got so much more. (I do recommend reading the entire series for backstory, but the characters are written so well you can pick this up as a stand alone.)
Madlyn comes across as a horrible person in the previous books, she’s kind of the “other woman” in Sweetened with a Kiss . Jen and Stefan’s story. *there is no cheating in the books* Madlyn had it all, a man she loved, a baby on the way, an extended family she would do anything for, and a bright future on the horizon. With one act, her entire world is shattered, and the Maddie everyone knows is replaced with The Red Queen.
Jared, let’s all just take a minute to picture Jared: tall with dark hair, hazel eyes, piercings, tattoos, and a killer smile, plays guitar, sings, bakes amazing confections, cooks professionally, and passed the bar. Sounds too good to be true? He’s better. He’s deeply caring about those he loves, he forms lasting bonds with people. He’s truly one of the good guys, and he has no idea what is about to hit him when he follows his family’s wishes to woo Madlyn over to the family law firm.
Robbie is the nine year old son of Madlyn and Robert (Jen’s deceased brother). He doesn’t get as much screen time in the book because Madlyn doesn’t have custody of him, but he makes an impact each time he’s on the page. Normally with kids in romance land, they are being cute or making a grown up feel better with their openness or love, not Robbie. Robbie comes across as another fully developed character in the book, he’s not just there as “background noise” or “oh hey, doesn’t XX have a kid?”, he’s a crucial part of the story and his feelings are just as important as Madlyn or Jared’s. Well done! Very well done.
Taking a character as nasty sounding as Madlyn and one as dreamy as Jared and pairing them up for the long haul doesn’t seem like it would work, but it really does. It works because Lexxi Callahan has penned characters with a depth that you normally don’t see in a single book. This type of character layering and growth is what you would normally see in a series of books about one or two main characters, many Urban Fantasy Series or the J.D. Robb books come to mind. Watching Madlyn and Jared unfold and actually earn their happily ever after is not to be missed!
I recommend this book to everyone. It has betrayal, music, food, family, fun, romance, hot-steamy sex, really hot sex, family drama, and one of the sweetest HEA’s ever penned. When your ereader is done smoking and you’re smiling happily through your tears, you’ll thank me for recommending this one :)
January 22, 2016
I received this book in exchange for my honest review, and I have to say, my honest review is that; this book surpassed all of my expectations!
It left me feeling so emotionally connected and completely fulfilled, that I have to add to this one to my favourite list! (It was that good!)
After reading about Madlyn Robicheaux in the first book, you couldn’t help but think “what a low down, scheming, conniving person she is” and maybe the thoughts “why would Lexxi write a whole book about this woman?” comes to mind. But let me tell you, there is so much more to it than you can imagine! So much more! And I loved every minute of it, even the difficult parts! You kind of finish this book hating yourself for hating her so much from the first book - and that in itself was new for me and I enjoyed it none the less :D.
In this book we get a rare chance to see Maddie finally, not the Red Queen (although, the Red Queen made quite an appearance – gosh, and I loved it all to bits! And cried my eyes out at other parts too!). I don’t think anything can prepare you for how complex a person she really is.
Jared Marshall (Jen’s friend from the first book “Sweetened With a Kiss”) totally blew me away. I somehow thought that he was such a laid back, maybe passive guy and boy was I wrong. He brought such a heat and intensity to the mix that just had me all slacked jawed (and by gosh he could be so hot when he got ready...sheesh) He was just the perfect mix of gentleness and alpha male strength that I couldn’t help but love him. He and Maddie were a perfect fit.
I especially loved the parts when we got to see Maddie's dreams; they were so precious to me for so many reasons. It was so sweet and heart wrenching at the same time. Not to mention Jared’s ability to just “see” her and just connect with her was so epic. Maddie's grandfather was perfect villain to centre all my dislike on, I wasn’t even sorry (okay maybe a little) when . I was so proud of the way Jared stood up for Maddie in the ending, even though it cost him in ultimately, but she deserved someone to be there for her and take some of that burden away.
As the sparks flew and the plot unfolded I was on an emotional roller coaster. I mean I was so invested in everything that I just couldn’t put this book down (well… “Couldn’t put the Ipad down” but you get what I mean) I was turning pages like a wild fire just to see what happened next.
Did I mention how great the writing was as well? It just roped you into the twists and turns, the highs and the lows, the sad and the happy like a flowing river and I was just floating along for the ride. Amazingly written! Great book! 5 stars!!
It left me feeling so emotionally connected and completely fulfilled, that I have to add to this one to my favourite list! (It was that good!)
After reading about Madlyn Robicheaux in the first book, you couldn’t help but think “what a low down, scheming, conniving person she is” and maybe the thoughts “why would Lexxi write a whole book about this woman?” comes to mind. But let me tell you, there is so much more to it than you can imagine! So much more! And I loved every minute of it, even the difficult parts! You kind of finish this book hating yourself for hating her so much from the first book - and that in itself was new for me and I enjoyed it none the less :D.
In this book we get a rare chance to see Maddie finally, not the Red Queen (although, the Red Queen made quite an appearance – gosh, and I loved it all to bits! And cried my eyes out at other parts too!). I don’t think anything can prepare you for how complex a person she really is.
Jared Marshall (Jen’s friend from the first book “Sweetened With a Kiss”) totally blew me away. I somehow thought that he was such a laid back, maybe passive guy and boy was I wrong. He brought such a heat and intensity to the mix that just had me all slacked jawed (and by gosh he could be so hot when he got ready...sheesh) He was just the perfect mix of gentleness and alpha male strength that I couldn’t help but love him. He and Maddie were a perfect fit.
I especially loved the parts when we got to see Maddie's dreams; they were so precious to me for so many reasons. It was so sweet and heart wrenching at the same time. Not to mention Jared’s ability to just “see” her and just connect with her was so epic. Maddie's grandfather was perfect villain to centre all my dislike on, I wasn’t even sorry (okay maybe a little) when . I was so proud of the way Jared stood up for Maddie in the ending, even though it cost him in ultimately, but she deserved someone to be there for her and take some of that burden away.
As the sparks flew and the plot unfolded I was on an emotional roller coaster. I mean I was so invested in everything that I just couldn’t put this book down (well… “Couldn’t put the Ipad down” but you get what I mean) I was turning pages like a wild fire just to see what happened next.
Did I mention how great the writing was as well? It just roped you into the twists and turns, the highs and the lows, the sad and the happy like a flowing river and I was just floating along for the ride. Amazingly written! Great book! 5 stars!!
January 1, 2016
WOW, I never thought it possible I would end up feeling sorry for and liking the Red Queen! I hated her so much in the first book, and I didn’t think I would change my mind in this 3rd book of the Southern Style Series. And Jared, how could anyone not love Jared?
The story Lexxi Callahan wrote in redeeming the evil Madlyn and the sacrifices she made to protect the people she loved, even at her own suffering and expense, was complex and fantastic. That Jared stood by her once he learned truth, and was willing to walk away afterwards not only for her, but for a family to repair and heal after all the hate and hurt caused by Madlyn’s grandfather, left me speechless. I felt so bad for Jared that he felt like an outsider, he seemed so lost and conflicted and my heart hurt for him. There was so much emotion for Madlyn and her son Robbie, and the love that was there for them both and between each other was amazing.
I loved the way Ms. Callahan intertwined the story with Stefan and Jen, and answered so many unanswered questions from the first book, especially the truth about what to happened to Jen’s family. It was so emotional to read and I felt drawn into the story and the characters from the beginning to the end. It was great to see how Ms. Callahan included all the main characters from books 1 and 2 into this story and brought them together for a turbulent ride but eventually to the end happiness they all deserved.
It was an emotional roller coaster read that kept my attention and I so look forward to this series continuing. I was so thrilled with the ending, and Ms. Callahan did an awesome job writing such a complex but loving cast of characters.
I highly recommend this book and I definitely recommend you read books 1 and 2 in this series so you can understand how all the twists and turns brings you to the awesome story of the “Fall of the Red Queen”.
**An ARC was provided by the author for an honest review**
The story Lexxi Callahan wrote in redeeming the evil Madlyn and the sacrifices she made to protect the people she loved, even at her own suffering and expense, was complex and fantastic. That Jared stood by her once he learned truth, and was willing to walk away afterwards not only for her, but for a family to repair and heal after all the hate and hurt caused by Madlyn’s grandfather, left me speechless. I felt so bad for Jared that he felt like an outsider, he seemed so lost and conflicted and my heart hurt for him. There was so much emotion for Madlyn and her son Robbie, and the love that was there for them both and between each other was amazing.
I loved the way Ms. Callahan intertwined the story with Stefan and Jen, and answered so many unanswered questions from the first book, especially the truth about what to happened to Jen’s family. It was so emotional to read and I felt drawn into the story and the characters from the beginning to the end. It was great to see how Ms. Callahan included all the main characters from books 1 and 2 into this story and brought them together for a turbulent ride but eventually to the end happiness they all deserved.
It was an emotional roller coaster read that kept my attention and I so look forward to this series continuing. I was so thrilled with the ending, and Ms. Callahan did an awesome job writing such a complex but loving cast of characters.
I highly recommend this book and I definitely recommend you read books 1 and 2 in this series so you can understand how all the twists and turns brings you to the awesome story of the “Fall of the Red Queen”.
**An ARC was provided by the author for an honest review**
December 28, 2015
The Fall of the Red Queen is the third book in Lexxi Callahan's Southern Style Series. Though it tells a complete story on it's own, I would highly recommend the entire series, (especially book one) for the full effect.
This fantastic story's characters are introduced in the first book of this series and continue to play roles in book two as well. But as you will discover in this delicious book, there is so much more to the hippie rock star/chef and reluctant lawyer, Jared Marshall and the Red Queen Madlyn Robicheaux.
Both Jared and Madlyn are strong-willed, determined individuals who are used to getting their way, however they deem necessary. They are also compassionate and will do anything for the ones they love, even if it destroys them. From the start of this story their combustible chemistry makes you burn through the pages to find out what will happen to them next.
Lexxi Callahan has written an emotionally charged story, with The Fall of the Red Queen. From start to finish I was completely drawn in and emotionally invested by her characters. I felt each of their trials ans tribulations as they experienced them. The theme 'Love has no Boundaries' is a definite fit to describe what Jared and Madlyn will do for those they love.
I devoured this book and cannot wait for more to come by this fabulous author!
This fantastic story's characters are introduced in the first book of this series and continue to play roles in book two as well. But as you will discover in this delicious book, there is so much more to the hippie rock star/chef and reluctant lawyer, Jared Marshall and the Red Queen Madlyn Robicheaux.
Both Jared and Madlyn are strong-willed, determined individuals who are used to getting their way, however they deem necessary. They are also compassionate and will do anything for the ones they love, even if it destroys them. From the start of this story their combustible chemistry makes you burn through the pages to find out what will happen to them next.
Lexxi Callahan has written an emotionally charged story, with The Fall of the Red Queen. From start to finish I was completely drawn in and emotionally invested by her characters. I felt each of their trials ans tribulations as they experienced them. The theme 'Love has no Boundaries' is a definite fit to describe what Jared and Madlyn will do for those they love.
I devoured this book and cannot wait for more to come by this fabulous author!
February 11, 2016
Another fantastic story from this author!
Jared is sent to lure Madlyn into working for his family’s firm. He knows her mainly by her reputation as The Red Queen. He is totally unprepared for his reaction to her.
Madlyn is known to be ruthless and evil like her grandfather. She is formidable and a force to be reckoned with. Nothing gets to her. Until she meets Jared, who is a few years younger and the opposite of her. She is totally unprepared for her reaction to him.
This story is told in the third person, with alternating POVs. The Madlyn that we met in the first novel of this series is not the person we uncover in this book, as we get an insight into her psyche. She has been keeping a horrible secret for 10 long years.
This novel was a close-up, intense look at the chemistry and connection between Jared and Madlyn, and how they both sink deep beneath each other’s skin. It is a sizzling battle of wills, as Jared strips away Madlyn’s barriers and sees her for the person she really is, while discovering her long-held secrets. It was an emotional read, with some raw moments, taking us from enflamed desire to tender, heart-wrenching moments. Loved it!
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Jared is sent to lure Madlyn into working for his family’s firm. He knows her mainly by her reputation as The Red Queen. He is totally unprepared for his reaction to her.
Madlyn is known to be ruthless and evil like her grandfather. She is formidable and a force to be reckoned with. Nothing gets to her. Until she meets Jared, who is a few years younger and the opposite of her. She is totally unprepared for her reaction to him.
This story is told in the third person, with alternating POVs. The Madlyn that we met in the first novel of this series is not the person we uncover in this book, as we get an insight into her psyche. She has been keeping a horrible secret for 10 long years.
This novel was a close-up, intense look at the chemistry and connection between Jared and Madlyn, and how they both sink deep beneath each other’s skin. It is a sizzling battle of wills, as Jared strips away Madlyn’s barriers and sees her for the person she really is, while discovering her long-held secrets. It was an emotional read, with some raw moments, taking us from enflamed desire to tender, heart-wrenching moments. Loved it!
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
January 11, 2016
Received an ARC for honest review
I read book one in this series several years ago. So I had to refresh myself on the story line by reading my review of that book and then browsing the book again. Then remembering I was disappointed that I missed book two. I will need to go back to read book two. Knowing that book one alludes to the truth about the Red Queen but still leaves it as you want to hate her but not quite fully.
Jared and Maddie make a great couple you can't help but love the banter between them. Proves the fine line between hate and love. How can you not love Jared the one who also starts trouble in book one between Stefan and Jen along with Maddie. How can they not be destined to be together.
This is a series that can be read out of order but makes more sense if you read them in order.
It is a quick enjoyable read.
I read book one in this series several years ago. So I had to refresh myself on the story line by reading my review of that book and then browsing the book again. Then remembering I was disappointed that I missed book two. I will need to go back to read book two. Knowing that book one alludes to the truth about the Red Queen but still leaves it as you want to hate her but not quite fully.
Jared and Maddie make a great couple you can't help but love the banter between them. Proves the fine line between hate and love. How can you not love Jared the one who also starts trouble in book one between Stefan and Jen along with Maddie. How can they not be destined to be together.
This is a series that can be read out of order but makes more sense if you read them in order.
It is a quick enjoyable read.
January 22, 2016
With each book I read in this series, they got better and better. The Fall of the Red Queen was more intense, more spicy, more emotional. Jared was not who I thought he was. He turned out to be all sorts of naughty deliciousness. He was strong, protective, yet vulnerable to Madlyn. I lovedd the way he was there for her. As for Madlyn, she is a character you love to hate in the first two books. However, after reading this one, I can only think of her as amazing, selfless, fierce, bold and yet very fragile. She broke my heart with her story and all the weight she carried on her shoulders.
I enjoyed the flow of the story, only wish a certain villainous character got a little more of what they deserved (but I may be a little more vengeful than Madlyn).
I hope there is more to this series coming as I am intrigued by some of the other characters as well.
I enjoyed the flow of the story, only wish a certain villainous character got a little more of what they deserved (but I may be a little more vengeful than Madlyn).
I hope there is more to this series coming as I am intrigued by some of the other characters as well.
January 21, 2016
4.5 stars
I'd just finished books 1 & 2 and would strongly recommend reading at least book 1 before this one, although it can stand alone.
Maddie was pretty much the bitch queen in book one, although you knew as a reader that there had to be a reason for her to be so evil. What I enjoyed about this book was getting that glimpse underneath to see who she really was, especially with her time with Robbie. The mystery surrounding Jen's accident comes to a head (no pun intended!), and the truth finally comes out. I appreciated why Maddie had to keep her cards so close to her chest, and that Jared was smart enough to pick up on the clues to figure out what had happened.
Really liked how this couple brought out the best in each other, and how they demonstrated that fine line between love/hate.
I'd just finished books 1 & 2 and would strongly recommend reading at least book 1 before this one, although it can stand alone.
Maddie was pretty much the bitch queen in book one, although you knew as a reader that there had to be a reason for her to be so evil. What I enjoyed about this book was getting that glimpse underneath to see who she really was, especially with her time with Robbie. The mystery surrounding Jen's accident comes to a head (no pun intended!), and the truth finally comes out. I appreciated why Maddie had to keep her cards so close to her chest, and that Jared was smart enough to pick up on the clues to figure out what had happened.
Really liked how this couple brought out the best in each other, and how they demonstrated that fine line between love/hate.
January 28, 2016
Jarrod is more than a playboy. He loves his family, hates his job and longs to make his own decisions. She's not bad just misunderstood. Focusing on her career is how Madlyn deals with emotions she doesn't want to face. Madlyn is a complex character because she thrives on manipulation and discord but as the layers are peeled back you discover a woman who wants love and acceptance. Thus the acting out. I received an ARC of The Fall of The Red Queen in exchange for an honest review. This is a story with drama, attitude and redemption. I enjoy reading Lexxi Callahan because her stories cover a wide range of emotions but are written with sassy dialogue and provocative characters that make it easy to get caught up in her tangled web of romance.
Copyright of Night Owl Reviews
Copyright of Night Owl Reviews
January 24, 2016
4 Stars.
This is the first book by this author that I've read, so I haven't read any of the previous books in the series. I like the idea of a previous villain being redeemed, though, and since it says they are stand alone novels I jumped right in. The characters were interesting, multi-faceted, and their motivations at least had explanations for their actions, even if it seemed a bit soap opera-y at times. It was nice watching as Jared figured out that Madlyn was not the villain everyone thought she was. And it was a bit infuriating watching Madlyn push Jared (and everyone else but her son) away over and over again.
This is the first book by this author that I've read, so I haven't read any of the previous books in the series. I like the idea of a previous villain being redeemed, though, and since it says they are stand alone novels I jumped right in. The characters were interesting, multi-faceted, and their motivations at least had explanations for their actions, even if it seemed a bit soap opera-y at times. It was nice watching as Jared figured out that Madlyn was not the villain everyone thought she was. And it was a bit infuriating watching Madlyn push Jared (and everyone else but her son) away over and over again.
January 28, 2016
Ok so this book wiped me out! Madlyn's story just broke my heart. I was torn with each page. Such a strong women to go through so very much. And Jared is just perfect! I love the tat's and piercings! Thanks for that! I am sure if we could read more of their story we'd see what a super power couple they become.
This series is wonderful. I will be buying copies for friends and family. The stories feel very real, and are written with great emotion. Such a wonderful, easy read. You'll not be able to put it down! And get ready for some hot, steamy scenes in book 3!
Love Love Love them!
This series is wonderful. I will be buying copies for friends and family. The stories feel very real, and are written with great emotion. Such a wonderful, easy read. You'll not be able to put it down! And get ready for some hot, steamy scenes in book 3!
Love Love Love them!
January 3, 2016
**4.5 Southern Style Stars**
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading each book in Lexxi Callahan's Southern Style series, but this book had me at its blurb. Come on! Who doesn't want front row seats to witness the fireworks when the ruthless Robicheaux Red Queen meets her match in the younger, charming lawyer/musician/chef? #rhetoricalquestion
Exceptionally written with sass, serious heat (Madlyn + Jared = H.O.T) and surprising sweetness.
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading each book in Lexxi Callahan's Southern Style series, but this book had me at its blurb. Come on! Who doesn't want front row seats to witness the fireworks when the ruthless Robicheaux Red Queen meets her match in the younger, charming lawyer/musician/chef? #rhetoricalquestion
Exceptionally written with sass, serious heat (Madlyn + Jared = H.O.T) and surprising sweetness.
January 5, 2016
Where to start... I enjoyed this book and found it filled with romance and mystery. Madelyn was a tough cookie but after a chance opportunity we start to see pieces of her crumbling. This book made me wonder what she was so afraid of but once the cat is out of the bag it all falls into place. I found it moving at a great pace and was sad to see it end. I would like to see more of the characters maybe further down the road and cannot wait to read more from this author!
January 26, 2016
I was prepared for the twist and turns. I was prepared for fucked-upness. I was prepared for the Rock God to fall hard. But I was not prepared for ME to fall hard. It's rare for a book to gut me and leave me broken and crying, but man, when they do, they are so worth it.
Did I see it coming a mile away? Hell Yeah! But I just couldn't stop crying and screaming at them "Nooooo Don't be stupid!" But I love every heart wrenching minute of it.
Did I see it coming a mile away? Hell Yeah! But I just couldn't stop crying and screaming at them "Nooooo Don't be stupid!" But I love every heart wrenching minute of it.
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