Dare to Stay

The Sons of Steel Row #2

by Jen McLaughlin

The sizzling second novel in the gritty contemporary Sons of Steel Row series from the author of Dare to Run.
Bruised and bloodied on Boston's mean streets, Chris O'Brien is reeling from the loss of his childhood best friend. But after barely escaping a hit placed on his head, Chris is desperate to live. A safe haven comes to mind—the home of the perfect girl from his childhood, Molly Lachlan. Before he has fully considered what it would mean to involve her in his mess, he finds himself on her doorstep.

When Molly agrees to let Chris inside her home, she realizes she's also letting him into her life. Danger and desperation are coming off of him like steam, and yet she can't bring herself to turn him away. His bad boy charm always had a hold on her, but now there's a soulfulness and sorrow in him that she's never seen before. And despite the heart-stopping risk of helping him, she hopes against all reason that he'll stay...

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Audiobook, Romantic Suspense, Dark, Adult

335 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 2, 2016

About the author

Jen McLaughlin is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of sexy books with Penguin Random House. Under her pen name, Diane Alberts, she is also a USA TODAY bestselling author of Contemporary Romance with Entangled Publishing. Her first release as Jen McLaughlin, Out of Line, hit the New York Times, USA TODAY and Wall Street Journal lists. She was mentioned in Forbes alongside E. L. James as one of the breakout independent authors to dominate the bestselling lists. She is represented by Louise Fury at The Bent Agency.

Though she lives in the mountains, she really wishes she was surrounded by a hot, sunny beach with crystal-clear water. She lives in Northeast Pennsylvania with her four kids, a husband, a schnauzer mutt, and three cats. Her goal is to write so many well-crafted romance books that even a non-romance reader will know her name.

Reviews

[XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy · Rating 4 out of 5]

While there was plenty of action, the story focuses on Chris' internal conflict after making some very big mistakes and his path toward redemption in his own eyes. Molly is his parent's neighbor and someone who has become important to him. She helps him recover after some trouble and they find something pretty special in one another's arms after the initial token resistance. While I liked the story and the detail that went into building the interactions, at times, I felt it to drag on a bit too long. I felt moving forward after the key moments in the story didn't always happen smoothly. The ending was also very dissatisfying. We barely get a HFN and no real resolution to the problems they're all facing. As individuals I liked the MCs and felt they had growth and depth. As a couple, they were good together both in and out the bedroom. My favorite parts of the story were when Chris would do something out of his perceived character. He was actually pretty sweet... When he wasn't killing people left and right (If that makes any sense) lol Safety: No OW/OM/Sharing. No rape/abuse. There is violence as there are attempts at the MCs' lives.

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 Stars

My life didn't need to be all murder, guns, and meaningless sex. It could've been more- if I'd been born into another family. Another life. But I hadn't been.

When I saw that Chris would be the hero in the second installment of The Sons Of Steel Row series, I'll admit to having doubts. After all the events at the end of Dare to Run, I wasn't sure how the author would redeem him enough to make me feel for the man. After all, Chris not only betrayed his best friend, he tried to kill him and the woman he loved in order to go after a power position within The Sons. How do you come back from something like that? Will the author be able to justify his decision? Make it believable? Make the reader connect with an anti-hero like that? Well I'm happy to report that the answer to all of those is a resounding YES.

He was more monster than human. All men like him were. Deep down, beneath his acts of neighborhood friendliness and that devastatingly handsome smile...He was a killer.

Dare To Stay picks up immediately where book 1 left off, with Chris bleeding in the alley, waiting for certain death. If you haven't read Dare To Run yet, don't worry, you can easily jump into this book first and the author gives plenty of background to ensure you won't be lost for even a minute.

Molly Lachlan lost her beloved father to the violence of street crime and gangs. Chris and her grow up next door to each other in the same nice neighborhood, but their upbringing couldn't be more different. Now Chris is a deadly killer and she's a kindergarten teacher and they may as well live worlds apart. But when Molly finds a wounded Chris, all she can think of is fixing the broken man.

While I liked this book a whole lot better than the first, there were still a few things that kept it from being a solid 4 star read for me.

I had an issue with Molly's personality at times. After all she's been through and the way she lost her father, her connection to Chris never quite clicked for me. He should be everything she wants to stay away from, yet she's willing to put her life on the line from the very beginning for him. I understood their history goes back many years, but I just didn't feel that connection between them right away. She was just too self sacrificing at times.

Chris's never ending back and forth of 'I want her' but 'I'm not good for her' started to grate on me too. I understand that he's not a good man, but I just didn't need it repeated at every turn. Or at least it felt that way at times.

I knew, even after all the blood, dirt, and sweat washed away, I would still be dirty. I'd never be clean.

The story itself was gritty and sexy. There was just enough to make me connect to the characters and keep reading curious to know what happens next, yet not quite enough to make it feel like an unputdownable read.

The romance was great and I definitely liked Molly and Chris a whole lot more than Lucas and Heidi. Heidi also had a lot more self preservation than Heidi did, which was a huge issue for me in the first book. I really liked Chris and her together, and there were definitely plenty of sizzle added into the mix.

I kissed her like I was a dying man and she was my last chance at salvation. And she was.

I had a hard time with the believability factor of the ending, but I can understand that Chris couldn't have the same options as Lucas did. What I do know for sure, is the set up for the third book sounds utterly amazing. And I can't wait to finally get my hands on Scotty's book.

ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review

Find me on:

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review



Umm… dare I say that Jen McLaughlin has written by far my favorite installment of The Sons of Steel Row Series. Dare to Stay picks off where it last left off in the previous book and this time another anti-hero has the spotlight. You don’t necessarily have to read Dare to Run since Dare to Stay can be read as a standalone but if you want a better understanding of the characters then I would suggest you read it. Okay, with that out of the way it is time to focus on why Jen McLaughlin has truly outdone herself with this gritty sexy romantic suspense.

“Something about that soft dent, that charming little flaw, made him more human. But I knew better. He was more monster than human. All men like him were. Deep down, beneath his acts of neighborhood friendliness and that devastatingly handsome smile . . . He was a killer. He would always be a killer. But he was hurt.”



Chris O’Brien knows what it means to live, breathe, and kill in order to survive the mean and rugged streets of South Boston. As member of the gang, The Sons of Steel Row, Chris has committed his life to breaking the rules. He is ruthless. He is a killer. He is cunning. He is merciless. And now Chris finds himself on the other side looking in when he is left bruised and bloodied in a darken alley.

“He lived in his world, and I lived in mine. The two didn’t mix. Just like we didn’t.”

After Chris’s betrayed his best friend, Lucas, he begins to see what he did was wrong. Filled with regret and shame, Chris has to live with the consequences of his actions. But living with that guilt comes at a price when a rival gang wants Chris’s head and Lucas’s little brother, Scott as well. And on that bloody alley, Chris vowed to make it up to his best friend by protecting the life of Scott even if it means sacrificing himself.



Molly Lachlan had to make a detour on her way home to stop by the pharmacy to get some bandages and it is there she comes face to face with an old friend. Bruised and bloodied, Chris O’Brien reunites with the one girl that made him feel alive. Molly couldn’t leave Chris there in the dark alley and so she forces him to go with her so she can attend to his injuries. As much as she knows she should stay away from him, she can’t.

“I refused to dirty her. She deserved a prince. Not a villain.”

He is ruthless. He is a criminal. He is a killer. As much as she tries to remind herself that, Molly knew one thing that Chris didn’t even know about himself. Molly knew without a doubt that Chris O’Brien wouldn’t harm her because she knew deep deep down, he has a soul worth saving and that he is a good man who is trapped under the circumstance of family and obligation to his gang.

“Yes, he was still dangerous, and I wasn’t foolish enough to think otherwise, and the stormy, untamed emotion brewing inside him was enough to make any sane woman turn away . . . and yet, I couldn’t.”

As Molly attended to Chris’s medical needs, she informs him that he can stay at her place till he is fully healed. While at her house, the sexual tension was palpable and like a moth to a flame, Molly craves and needs Chris’s touch. Soon, Molly begins to unravels Chris’s hard exterior and guarded heart. Feelings of love, hope, and new beginnings begins to surface. But what happens when danger and death comes knocking on their door? Will Chris be able to protect Molly from the gang? And will Chris be able to protect Scott? How far will one man go to redeem himself?

“I see you, Chris. I see who you are. I know you. I see your beauty, and I see your darkness. I see it all. And I am here for you.”

Dare To Stay was intense, sexy, provocative, gritty, suspenseful and sinfully intoxicating. Jen McLaughlin did not just deliver a love story but she held you hostage with her raw and addictive prose. She brought forth a love story that embodied every essence of hope, justice, forgiveness, honor, passion, and redemption. Jen captured our attention as she beautifully weaved elements of grit, stubbornness, iron will, and atonement that readers could feel the raw emotions pouring off the pages and Chris’ determination to right his wrongs. And in such, Jen bewitchingly paints a bold literary creation where life, death, sacrifices and love are sublimely splashed onto a blank canvas giving readers a full depth of how far will one go to make amends of his sins. So if you are looking for a story that was intense, thrilling, and sinfully intoxicating then I dare you to read Dare To Stay. All there is left to say, Jen McLaughlin, I am so ready for Scott’s story.



Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Jen McLaughlin

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***

Dare To Stay by Jen McLaughlin
Book Two of the Sons of Steel Row series
Publisher: Berkley Romance
Publication Date: August 2, 2016
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley

***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***

Summary (from Goodreads):

Bruised and bloodied on Boston’s mean streets, Chris O’Brien is reeling from the loss of his childhood best friend. But after barely escaping a hit placed on his head, Chris is desperate to live. A safe haven comes to mind—the home of the perfect girl from his childhood, Molly Lachlan. Before he has fully considered what it would mean to involve her in his mess, he finds himself on her doorstep.

When Molly agrees to let Chris inside her home, she realizes she’s also letting him into her life. Danger and desperation are coming off of him like steam, and yet she can’t bring herself to turn him away. His bad boy charm always had a hold on her, but now there’s a soulfulness and sorrow in him that she’s never seen before. And despite the heart-stopping risk of helping him, she hopes against all reason that he’ll stay...

What I Liked:

Earlier this year in January, I read and absolutely LOVED Dare To Run by Jen McLaughlin, book one of this series. That book followed Lucas Donahue and Heidi Greene, and it was quite a sizzling, heart-stopping story. This sequel picks up exactly where Dare To Run left off, but in Chris's POV. While I think I loved Dare To Run a little more, I really liked this book!

Chris O'Brien knows that he messed up big time. Trying to kill his best friend in order to take his place in the Sons of Steel Row's hierarchy? Chris should never have put that plan to action. Not only does Lucas not die, but he forgives Chris and lets him go. Now that Lucas and Heidi are "dead" to the world, Chris is free to take Lucas's spot, especially since he has Lucas's written consent. But Chris doesn't want it anymore. Shot and bleeding, he runs into the last person he thought he'd see - Molly Lachlan. Growing up, Molly was his next-door neighbor, a sweet innocent girl who is now a kindergarten teacher. She insists on taking him to her home to clean him up. Chris knows better to bring a woman into his complicated, dangerous life, but he's never been able to say to Molly...

This book did not disappoint, just as I've come to realize that Jen McLaughlin/Diane Alberts does not disappoint. I was apprehensive, after reading book one, because I didn't think I'd like Chris, after what he did to Lucas. But Chris spent the whole book feeling extremely guilty about what he tried to do, and he punishes himself for it. This made me feel better (which sounds sick, I know), because I sooo did not want to read a book about a guy who could try to kill his best friend and walk around like it was fine!

I thought Chris was fine, okay, in book one, but I definitely liked him a lot more in this book. He is hardened and cold on the outside, but he's wracked with guilt and pain on the inside. He had a terrible childhood and he's spent all of his adult life trying to impress his horrible father, who is also a Son of Steel Row. Beneath all of the cold, hard shields, Chris is a lonely guy. He's an amazing artist but doesn't want anyone to know about that - until Molly finds out.

Molly enters the picture when she runs into Chris in the pharmacy. She had just cut her hand by accident; he had just been shot by Lucas and was trying to bandage himself up. Molly sees him, recognizes him, but she isn't afraid. She wants to help him, despite common sense telling her to run. Molly is sweet and innocent, but she's also very intelligent and not blind at all. She knows what Chris is, who he is, and what he does. She's under no illusions about his life.

The two of them are so different and that is what makes them a dynamite couple. Chris is the big bad wolf, and Molly is the sweet lamb. Of course, Chris is also a noble and closeted romantic, and Molly can be stern and stubborn at times (comes with the teacher territory). But they are like fire and ice, and I love watching them burn together (figuratively, of course).

Seriously, the chemistry between these two is pretty hot. You'd think it would have bothered me that these don't even kiss until about halfway through the book. Nope, I wasn't bothered in the least because the tension between them was smoldering throughout the whole book. I like that there was time for them to get reacquainted (they knew each other growing up), and that things didn't just jump straight into the physical.

This isn't quite a second chance romance, since Molly and Chris were never together at any point in the past. They were neighbors, and Chris would always mow the lawn or do odd jobs around Molly's house when her father died five years ago. But then Chris joined the Sons, and Molly didn't see him again. Until that night, when she found him bleeding all over the pharmacy store. Still, I liked that the pair already knew each other. There is a connection there, and it is sweet.

Did I mention that Chris is a closet romantic? He does something sweet for Molly over time and it is so, so sweet.

This book isn't just about Chris and Molly. Chris has to deal with the aftermath of Lucas's "death". Everyone is out to get revenge on whoever killed him (little do they know, it was Chris that tried to kill Lucas, and Lucas is actually still alive). All the while, Bitter Hill men are trying to take down Chris once and for all, and Scotty (Lucas's brother) is trying to get Chris to do something that Chris isn't sure he should do. There is constant action and nonstop danger, and I was not always confident in Chris's ability to stay alive. He gets lucky several times.

The ending was a very satisfying one! It ends well, not cliche but or formulaic but not bittersweet. I'm glad the author made it work for Molly and Chris, in a way that fits them. And she sets up the ending of this book perfectly for book three, Dare To Lie!

What I Did Not Like:

This isn't weighing against the rating but I wish there could have been a Lucas/Heidi cameo! The two of them are in hiding, so it makes sense that they wouldn't show their faces in Boston, but still. A girl can dream! Anyway, this wasn't quite a negative, just a thought!

I don't think there was anything specific that I outright did not like. It was a good read! Not a new favorite but definitely satisfying.

Would I Recommend It:

I highly recommend this book, and Dare To Run. I read Dare To Run on a whim in January, and I'm really glad I did that. This series is unique to me, and definitely a favorite for the year (if not, of all time for me). Steamy romance, likable characters, nonstop action -- count me in!

Rating:

4 stars. I still liked Lucas/Heidi more, but Chris/Molly was great! I really like this bad boy/good girl trope, and I think McLaughlin does a great job writing it. I can't wait to read Dare To Lie, featuring Scotty and... Tate's sister, Skylar!

[CD {Boulder Blvd} · Rating 2 out of 5]

My thoughts as I read:

The initial meeting of the two of them seemed really contrived. How late was she at the school that the pharmacy was closed? The fighting in the alley had to be in broad day light, didn't it?

Pg 44: He's been fighting in the alley after fighting at Lucas' and he's covered in blood and yet she is able to smell his cologne. All I could think of is he must have taken a bath in it for it to survive all the fighting, the blood and the smells from rolling around and fighting in an alley.

The biggest complaint I had with the first book was the excessive and repetitive angst and this book is starting out with a ton of angst. I really do not consider angst to be a plot for a novel; there needs to be more. Angst can define a character and provide insight into their actions but alternating chapters of mental thoughts where each POV is telling and not showing their story is boring.

Her father was killed by a gangbanger and so she's I've lost someone and not going to have friends or relationships because it hurts too much makes her seem more pathetic than sympathetic. And his I'm a gentle and artistic soul caught in a gang lifestyle didn't seem real and authentic in a lot of the areas of the book.

I started skip reading around page 80 because I couldn't take it anymore.

This is really disappointing on a number of fronts. One - Ms. McLaughlin is a good writer. Her writing voice is very readable and I like it. Two - the potential of the dark and gritty story held a lot of promise. Three - well I love romantic suspense, but I want suspense with the romance woven into it. I don't want angst pinging back and forth with a couple of suspense scenes book ending the non-existent plot.

Finally, at 122 there was some action. Chris sees a guy lift a hand which would make you think hand gun, but no it was a AR-15 which is an assault rifle. To me, he would see the rifle or perhaps the motion of raising the arm holding the rifle. Then it seems like Chris and Molly are yelling at each other which would give their positions away. I would recommend whispers. Then we get his mental angst about someone coming after his Molly. I was hoping for some suspense building. But do we get to see him wiping out the bad guys - NO! We jumped to Molly's POV where she is cowering behind a sofa and "thinking" and "telling" the story.

So yeah, about this time, I'm thinking DNF, but decide I would give the book one last skim read chance.

Closer to the 250 page mark, the story actually picks up with the gang rivalry and revenge, but the reality was the book already lost my interest and there wasn't much to resurrect it. After two books in this series being more POV hopping and angst, I've decided that this series and maybe the writer aren't for me.

[Syndi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first read by Miss Mclaughlin. When I read the first 20% I thought its going to be heroine who saves hero in the time of distress and then they fall in love in a swoony worthy romantic. Plus throw in a mafia aspect through it. But then after the 20%, I am so confuse. The story becomes more a lot of conversation between Molly and Chris. Back and forth between Chris pushing Molly because he is a dangerous man. A gang member.

The conversation is too much that in the middle of it, I get sick of it. I like a good back and forth. But this one is too much. And unnecessary. That is the only thing that I do not like on this book. Plus I do not understand the ending of this book. How Chris and Molly can get HEA is beyond me. The ending does not makes any sense and makes me drop another star for this book.

Aside of that, the story is actually have potential. Some of the conversation is actually interesting. I do like how Chris guilt makes him wants to protect Molly. Molly is a likeable heroine. A typical sweet, loving, loyal heroine.

Overall I do enjoy this book very much.

4 stars

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Afrodyt's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

4.5 stars

This second novel in the Sons of Steel Row follows the gripping tale of Dare to Run. Dare to Stay is Chris' story. Chris is not a good guy. He's a violent man living in a violent world. His days are clearly numbered because his most recent deeds are so heinous that he spends the majority of this story beaten and bloodied with multiple bullet wounds.

Molly Lachlan has already lost loved ones to the gangs roaming the streets of Steel Row and has become pretty adept at flying below the radar. She's also as far outside the gang life as you can get. When the devastatingly handsome, former boy-next-door, Chris O'Brien desperately needs help she finds herself breaking all of the rules that have kept her safe. She's always known he was trouble and yet compassion leads her to take him in and nurse him back to health.

After reading Dare to Run, I guessed that maybe this was a story of redemption. Both Lucas and Chris are anti-heroes, bad guys with redeeming qualities who get blindsided by love. Chris is super sexy and romantic and truly remorseful of his misdeeds. Molly is forgiving almost to a fault, and willing to overlook Chris' darkness to see the light that resides within him. This story is interesting and was also challenging for me. As the reader, I didn't forgive Chris. I didn't forget what he did and I didn't feel sorry for all the punishment he took as a result of his actions. That being said, I was thoroughly entertained and I'm looking forward to the next installment of this series.

Review copy provided for an honest review.

[nick (the infinite limits of love) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Earlier this year, I took a chance on Jen McLaughlin's Dare to Run and had a really good time reading it and swooning over the hero. I knew from that first book that this would be a series that I'd enjoy through and through. While for me, Dare to Stay wasn't as good as Dare to Run, I still found the book to be entertaining.

After the stunt Chris pulled at the end of Dare to Run, I will admit to being just a bit nervous about reading his story. I wasn't 100% sure that Jen McLaughlin could redeem his character for me. So, I was very pleasantly surprised when I wound up liking him up to an extent. He was feeling very guilty at the beginning of this book, and was willing to make repairs to the damage he had caused his best friend. The author makes you sympathize for him here and it was really sad to see the kind of upbringing he had growing up in the gang, and being constantly abused by his violent father. Despite all that roughness around him, he could be a mushy and protective guy and we especially got to see that side as he interacted with his heroine, Molly. I liked Molly quite a bit too. She was more innocent compared to Chris. She had a gentle and kind soul that I thought was exactly what Chris needed in his life - she was a balance to his rough edges. Even though she knows that associating with him would endanger her life, she still doesn't back away from helping him out when the need comes up.

Chris and Molly have a lot of chemistry together in Dare to Stay, so much so that it's almost palpable. It's the kind of chemistry that has you eager to see the two of them finally fall for each other and give in to their attractions. They may have been from completely different worlds, but that they fit together beautifully was a no-brainer. The sexy times scenes especially in this book were on fire! Jen McLaughlin knows how to write sex scenes that are full of passion and heat. I loved watching them get to know each other and I loved how Chris wanted to be a better person just for Molly. The romance, overall, was sweet and very romantic. However, Chris really irritated me multiple times in the book with his constant acknowledgement that he wasn't good enough for Molly or that he wasn't deserving of love. It got very repetitive and tiring. I'm not going to lie, it took away from my enjoyment of the romance a little. He was so bull-headed about it that he wouldn't even give Molly a chance to make decisions about them as a couple and ask her what she wanted. He did eventually realize how stupid he was being, but I wish this behavior and thought-process of his wasn't as stretched out as it was here.

In the end, Dare to Stay isn't my favorite book in the series, but it was still a dangerous and swoony addition. Having seen more of Scotty here, I simply can't wait to get to his book in the next installment, Dare to Lie.

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first book ended with a game changing shocker that left me breathless and my brain frozen. Serious wow-factor. And this book was to follow it and continue with the fall-out story from the big climax scene. I didn't know whether to be excited beyond belief or nervous about the book delivering on it's promise. I was a little of both.

This second of the Sons of Steel Row books began exactly where the last one ended, but a new hero and heroine have taken the spotlight. Obviously, this book isn't the best idea for a standalone or out of order, but in a pinch, the reader could begin here.

Chris O'Brien thought he was one of the bad guys with dirt and blood on his hands, but then he committed the worst sin he could- he betrayed another Son and a blood brother, but also his best friend. It can't get lower or blacker than that. He started out wanting and needing to get his hard, brutal dad's approval and instead has become him. Growing up under that mean abuse had taken it's toll, but somehow his need for a parent's approval had survived intact until now when what it took to achieve it tasted bitter and empty.

When the Bitter Hill gang catch up to him, he almost doesn't care that they are going to kill him for his part in the loss of some of their brothers, but his survival kicks in and he fights them off. Bleeding out and near death, an angel of mercy finds him and ignores his threats and growls, brings him into her home to take care of him.

Molly Lachlan lives in fear since the day her kind, gentle father was gunned down by a gang member in Boston's southie Steel Row neighborhood. She teaches her kindergartners and goes home alone every night. No going out on the town with friends, no dates, no anything. She doesn't want to get attached so she never has to hurt when it's gone and she definitely wants nothing to do with danger. So why she helped a lethally dangerous gang member of the Sons of Steel Row, she doesn't want to examine too closely because there is no good sane reason.

Molly recognizes Chris. She grew up next door to him afterall. Oh sure, everyone in their affluent neighborhood knew that Chris' dad made his money in an illegal way and that he's a gang tough who raised his son to follow him, but Chris was always sweet to her. After her dad died, he quietly did things around her home like lawnwork, painting, and snow removal. But Molly kept her distance. Only now, she can't just let the man die or let him go even if he insists his presence in her home isn't safe for her. As he heals, Molly learns a new perspective and realizes that she was pretty lucky and Chris never had her luck the way he was raised and he did the best he could with the hand life dealt him. He is still dark and his hands have blood on them. Molly can't handle his dangerous life and the possibility that if she let him inside her emotional walls that he'd leave her just like her father.

Bitter Hill raises the ante on the gang war between them and the Sons. Chris keeps his new resolution to protect Lucas' little brother Scotty in his undercover work even while working hard to keep Molly safe. Physically safe from the danger that surrounds him and safe from him hurting her heart. She's a beautiful angel of light and he won't soil her even if he wants her more than anything and wants her to want him back. Dare he stay and hope?

Alright, I was glad to get back into the Sons of Steel world. This story took a step back and spent a lot of time in Molly's clean ordinary world, but the other grittier world crashed across the line now and then in sharp contrast. It was like a West Side Story plot. Chris did the unforgiveable and yet I was rooting for his redemption and chance at happiness. I liked getting more of Scotty and the deep danger he is in doing what he is doing. Molly was sweet and nice, but didn't grab me as a character like Chris. He pulled all the emotion from his past, his huge mistakes and his painful and changing present as he transformed.

The story was strong though I didn't feel it was as sharp and tight as it could have been. The point about Chris and Molly's differences was painted on rather heavy so that it was always brought up. I got the point early on- he's a murdering thug and she's a sweet innocent. He lives in a violent world and she lives in a nurturing one. Got it.

The conflict was solid and believable when it comes to their romance. Chris really is stuck and even if he wants to change and leave, he can't. And Molly won't. So things are doomed from the start. I liked that the author didn't do a half-way job with Molly or Chris's characters and development. She didn't make it easy and she didn't gloss over the tough stuff.
Chris did a horrid thing and he has to pay for it. He has to restore the situation he caused and earn back the trust of one of the men he wronged to do the right thing. He has to live with the fact that he and his life are not right for Molly and take it when she pushes him away.
Molly is who and what she is and it isn't easy or immediate for her to accept her attraction to Chris or do anything with it. The violence terrifies her and it should. She is caught in the crossfire more than once. What I thought was too far was her naive decision to drive her expensive car down into Steel Row sticking out like a lighthouse beacon and look for Chris like a little bunny prey for the wolf hunters after the rival gang had already proven that they will take her or take her out to hurt Chris and he told her so. Then she turns around and wants him gone because she can't handle the violence (so what was the point of going to find him?).
As a couple, it was bittersweet as they grew close. Chris wasn't used to softness or someone caring for him. He didn't know what to do when Molly wanted to do something special for him. Just like she was confused when he wanted to protect her and do things for her and he didn't immediately want to get rough and tumble her in bed. Molly saw beneath the surface with Chris and brought out the best in him just as he helped her get past her need to close off the world and the world of feeling because she was scared of being hurt.

This was something a bit different from the first book, but no less good in it's own way. I had to sneak the preview chapters for the next book because I am dying for Scotty's story. And yay, he is indeed next. All in all these are fantastic romances set in the dark gritty world of a gang that don't glamorize the life, but bring the people and their relationships alive. I would recommend them for those who enjoy the rougher worlds and settings of anti-heroes and their dangerous lives.

My thanks to Penguin Group for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[☕️Kimberly (Caffeinated Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Addictive!

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dare to Stay was a perfect mix of dark, funny and sexy. I have to say, from the moment I started this book, I was totally transported to the world of South Boston (aka Southie) and could visualize all of the places that were described. I could hear the accents as I read them, and I really wanted to be there watching as every piece of this story unfolded around me.

Chris O’Brien is extreme. I think that’s the simplest way to describe him. A dark, dangerous, tattooed god who can take a man out with one shot. Chris is a member of The Sons of Steel Row; Molly Lachlan is his total opposite. She’s kind, caring, full of love and light, and she’s a teacher.

She was sunshine and blue skies, and I was tornados and hurricanes.

But when they come together the pressure is just too much.

It was like I was a bottle of soda, all shaken up inside. If he twisted my lid, all that pressure would release, and I would explode all over the place. All over him. Okay, that sounded grosser than it was supposed to.

The question becomes, can Chris and Molly overcome their differences, and will he stay? Murder. Sex. Love. Compassion. Heartbreak. Kindness. These are all words that describe just some of the elements in Dare to Stay. And I have to say, I loved every single one of them.

Dare to Stay is a must read for 2016! ~ Heather, 5 Staying Power stars

~~~

It shouldn’t have been possible to redeem a character like Chris O’Brien.

I shouldn’t have liked him, much less loved him. I shouldn’t have cried for him, ached for him, and hoped desperately for his happy ending.

But, I did all these things. In fact—in the end—I think I loved Chris O’Brien even more than I loved Lucas Donahue and if you’ve read the first book in this series, you know that’s saying something. It shouldn’t have been possible, but Jen McLaughlin pulled it off brilliantly.

Wow.

This book was so compelling. It was brutal and heartbreaking, and I wanted to weep for Chris and Molly at various points. It was gritty and violent and sometimes exhausting. But the real beauty of this book was in its unexpected tenderness, the way it took a villain and turned him into a hero, and all the unlikely ways it warmed my heart.

I adored Chris. It’s no secret that I like wounded/damaged heroes and Chris fits the bill completely. He’s a stone cold killer. He’s a bad guy. The soft underbelly is well hidden, but when we got peeks of it, it was enough to completely steal my heart. He sometimes frustrated me, but when he was with Molly? I loved every minute.

Molly could be frustrating too—not because of who she was, I loved her big heart and her incredible inner strength. I understood the struggles she had, and I didn’t fault her for those at all. But her storyline was a little tough for me to buy sometimes—because of who she was and how she was raised, it was difficult for me to accept that she…accepted so much about Chris. That said, I loved them together. Their love story was emotional and gripping, and my heart raced as it unfolded. I shouldn’t have liked this story as much as I did, which I think tells you better than anything how well it was written and how good the storytelling was.

Dare to Stay is this perfect blend of romance, gritty gang life, and suspense. I didn’t always know who to trust, and I wasn’t always sure Molly and Chris were making the right decisions, but I loved them pretty fiercely. And now I cannot wait for Scottie’s story—I’m greedy for more! ~ Shelly, 4.5 stars

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Find this review and more at kimberlyfaye reads.

Ok, first off... you should know that if you haven't read Dare to Run yet, you probably shouldn't continue reading my review. I don't think there's any way to talk about this book without referencing some pretty big spoilers from the first book. If you've not read Dare to Run, go run and do that. Then come back here and let me tell you why you will NEED TO read Dare to Stay. (Though I don't think you'll need me to convince you.)

When I finished Dare to Run, I remember having a conversation with my friend who'd also read it. Most of that conversation revolved around us wondering if/how Chris would be able to be redeemed after his actions. I held out hope that Jen could pull it out, but I was concerned going in. I'm all for an antihero but I wasn't sure someone could betray their best friend on the level he did and still win me over when it was all said and done. I was right to trust my initial instincts. Not only did Chris win me over, but I think he even edged out Lucas and became my new favorite in this series. (And one of my favorite of Jen's guys, period.) I know. I'm shocked, too.

I had so many Chris-related feels I didn't even know what to do with myself while I was reading this – and afterwards. He's not a good guy. He's a gun runner. He's murdered people. He's not the guy you'd call swoony and take home to meet your parents. I hate to play the "he's not to blame for his actions" game, but when it all comes down to it, he's a product of his environment. He's done what he's needed to so he could survive the streets of Boston. My heart absolutely ached for him as he struggled to accept the feelings Molly had for him, to realize he was deserving of love, to understand that he's worth so much more than he's always seemed to accept. Even a broken prince can still be a prince. The way he fought for redemption during this book made me realize there's so much more to him than meets the eye and it's what won me over the most.

I could go on and on about Chris forever. I loved his character, broken and flawed as he was. But Molly was amazing in her own right. A teacher whose own father was murdered on the same streets that Chris fights, she seems like a very unlikely match for Chris. However, I can't think of anyone more perfect for him. Not only was she a strong woman with a good heart, she had so much love to give and no one to really give it to. Chris needed that to pull himself out of the darkness. As unlikely as they might've seemed, there's no doubt they had a connection. (And a bit of a backstory, but I won't get into that... because spoilers.) Their chemistry was electric. The passion and heat jumped off the page. So did the feelings. What was between them was so much more than physical.

Not only does Dare to Stay have great characters, believable romance and HOT AF sexy times, but it had plenty of feels and action. There were times when I was quite literally on the edge of my seat, half afraid to turn the page for fear of what I would read there. Because of Chris' desire to redeem himself for the situation with Lucas, I was really concerned about how things would wrap up in this book. Would he come out safe on the other side? Was I rooting on a love story that was destined for heartache? Was Molly going to have HER heart broken once again because of the loss of someone she loved? Well, you know I'm not going to tell you all that. What I'm going to say is read the book. Experience it for yourself. You won't regret it.

I'm addicted to the Sons of Steel Row. I don't read a lot of darker romances with antiheroes like what I've found in this series, but I'm loving this one. I'm ready for Scott's story in Dare to Lie, even if it won't be here until February 2017. I'm definitely anxious to see how this series wraps up.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, exchange for an honest review.

FAVORITE QUOTES

Sometimes you've got to take a look at your life—a good, hard, brutally honest look—and admit that somewhere along the way, you fucked up big-time.

I'd just have to make sure to play it safe. I lived by one rule in my life: Never let anyone in too close. Never care about them enough to let them have power over me. Never love anyone so much that their death would leave a hole in my heart. I already had one of those. I didn't need two.

My life didn't need to be all murder, guns, and meaningless sex. It could've been more—if I'd been born into another family. Another life. But I hadn't been.

In his arms, I felt special. Unique. One of a kind. Like a princess. And he was my tarnished prince... Whether he liked it or not.

"You can press those sweet little thighs together all you want, but it won't change a damn thing—you need me to ease that ache you feel deep inside of you. You need my cock, driving deep into your pussy, until you forget everything and everyone but us."

"I see you, Chris. I see who you are. I know you. I see your beauty, and I see your darkness. I see it all. And I am here for you."

[Dísir · Rating 3 out of 5]

The anti-hero, lost and despairing, in search of redemption, with all his existential, fatalistic trappings - has long intrigued me, even if they're best kept examined with some kind of distance. To see them popping up from time to time in this genre (although they do seem more common now) is always a reminder that men who dwell in all shades of grey can be written as a shining example of a credible male lead - while getting all he doesn't quite deserve by the very end of the story.

Chris O'Brien is that man who's convinced he doesn't deserve anything beyond guns, alcohol, brotherhood and meaningless sex because, well, as a product of this very squalid and hostile environment, he simply doesn't know better. Perhaps it's only fitting that woman he has known for years and admired from afar is the complete, diametric opposite of this world, even if her angelic qualities might really have been exaggerated in his perspective. Hence, that constant self-recrimination of never being good enough plays out constantly in his mind, ad nauseum, because Molly Lachlan, if anything, is frustratingly naive and only determined to see the 'good' side of him without really wanting to know what he really does on the streets.

I hadn't read the first book and delving into this one is in a way more rewarding than going at it straight from the very beginning. There's a back story that I had no problem catching up on, and a meaty game of double-crossing and whistle-blowing that leaves Chris, Molly and Scotty mere heartbeats away from danger. A gang war is in full swing and players aren't quite who they seem and that perhaps, was the key element in 'Dare to Stay' that kept me hooked and the pages turning, rather than the on-off, yes/no game that Chris and Molly inadvertently kept playing throughout the book because of their indecision about each other.

The happy-for-now ending however, is also what I strangely appreciate, when it's clear that the next book will build on what has already been established here. The violence doesn't miraculously cease because a couple finally gets their act together and the story after all, isn't quite over until the streets are cleaned up. Surprisingly, I find myself wanting more - more of Scotty's story, even Tate, perhaps - too quickly, too much, only to wonder if I'll end up disappointed when it finally comes.

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

 

I just read and reviewed Sophie Jordan's Hell Breaks Loose the other day and I can't help but notice that I have another book on my hands here with a bad boy and his love interest in an impossible happily ever after situation.   But Jen McLaughlin's Dare to Stay is different in that Chris, our bad boy, really eff'd up.  He IS a bad boy who is possibly on his way to redemption.

If you haven't read the first book in The Sons of Steel Row series and you're planning on reading it,

STOP RIGHT HERE!!!

Go no further in my review.  Don't worry, you're okay.  You haven't been spoiled by the synopsis for this book.  But the entire plot of this book is based on a major plot point in the first book.  You've been warned...

So, now that I've cleared everyone out, let me just tell you that I really, REALLY hated Chris in the last book.  And then to see that the next book in the series was his?  Unthinkable!!  How could Ms. McLaughlin keep me around as a fan?  How could she turn around this shit-storm of a mess that Chris has made and give the guy least deserving of a happily ever after a, well, a happy ending?

Well, Ms. McLaughlin sold me and she did it by actually sharing Chris' backstory.   Those always do it for me.  But not only that, she gave more insight into Chris' relationship with Lucas and his brother Scotty.  But I'm getting ahead of myself...

Dare to Stay picks up right after the events of Dare to Run.  Chris is beaten, bloody, and dealing with a bullet wound in his shoulder.  He can't go to his home because Bitter Hill, the rival gang, will be looking for him there.  He also can't go to his parent's home, for the very same reason.  It's by sheer coincidence that he crosses path with (literally) the girl next door, Molly Lachlan.  She knows he and his family are part of the Steel Row gang, she just has no idea what life is like for Chris.  But she helps him when he needs it most.  It's what her late father would have done.

So where Chris was battling immense guilt, Lily was battling her feelings towards Chris.  The chemistry is all there, but she knows he's not a safe bet for her.  But when Lily learns EVERYTHING about Chris, what he's done, and how he feels, Lily realizes she has a choice.  She already knows she accepts him, flaws and all.  But would she stay with him???  And he's not exactly being easy to deal with, he doesn't think he's good for her.

Toss in a huge amount of gun play, action, double dealing / espionage, and you have another winner from Ms. McLaughlin.  Of course, I must have the next book in the series ASAP.  And looking at the synopsis, you really need to have read both of the previous books to understand the third book.  Nothing is better than recurring characters...  right after HEAs!



 

 

 Review appears on

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading and loving Dare to Run, I was a bit skeptical that this book centered around Chris. After what he did in book one, I was interested to see how Jen McLaughlin was going to make him into a likable hero.

After making a huge mistake, Chris isn't sure how he's going to continue with his life in his gang, the Sons of Steel Row. Beaten and bleeding on the street, Molly finds Chris and is determined to keep him safe, no matter how hard Chris tries to fight her. Molly knows that Chris is dangerous and that she should be scared of him, but the more time she spends with Chris as he is nursed back to health, the deeper she finds herself falling.

Oh my goodness, from page one of this book, I was hooked. It was clear that Chris was going through some serious emotional turmoil over what he had done in book one, so it was easy to forgive him right away for what he did. I loved how he had watched Molly for years and had a soft spot for her, no matter how hard his life was getting. While they kind of new each other from being acquaintances over the years, I liked how they got closer when Molly was taking care of Chris and how Chris had to finally let Molly in.

Since this is the second book in the series, we get to follow these guys try to start an honest life and leave behind the dangerous life where they are shot at around every corner. Like the last book, there is danger and suspense and you are kept on the edge of your seat and pray that the characters stay safe. The romance in this one was awesome and I absolutely loved Molly and Chris's relationship. Molly became fiercely protective of Chris and I enjoyed how headstrong her character became.

What more can I say? With action, suspense, and a whole lot of romance, I am addicted to The Sons of Steel Row series. I am so excited for Scotty's story and I can't wait to seen him fall in love and try to become a better man. If you love dangerous men who want to be good for the women they love, you have to pick up this series!

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Molly can be a force when reckoned with, “then don’t make me stay here, where it’s dangerous.” She twisted her lips. “Come away with me and my cat instead.” I really loved Chris, “what my princess wants?” I let her feet fall to the floor and dropped to my knees in front of her. I gripped the waist of her pants, undoing the button. “My princess gets.” I really enjoyed this book I loved Molly and Chris.

[Reading In Pajamas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spotlight, Review & Giveaway: DARE TO STAY (The Sons of Steel Row #2) by Jen McLaughlin http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-5Zo
Publication Date: August 2, 2016
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 5 Stars

I loved DARE TO STAY even more than I loved DARE TO RUN! I started picked up the first book in this series because of the cover alone. The covers are that hot. The books live up to the covers though. This series delivers the hot romance. DARE TO STAY is the second book in Jen McLaughlin's Sons of Steel Row series and can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the first book before picking up this one if you want the complete storyline. DARE TO STAY is Chris and Molly's book and they are perfect for each other. I love the bad boy/ villain heroes matched up with good girls. Their chemistry was off the charts. I fell in love with Chris! He's this tortured bad boy hero and the more I read about him the more I wanted to be Molly in this book. Isn't that what we all want in a romance book? This series is on my "must have immediately and devour" list and I'll be waiting impatiently for the next book. I highly recommend this series for romance lovers who love a bad boy hero.

*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.

~*~*~*~

Kindle: http://amzn.to/1Mn0nKS
Amazon Paperback: http://amzn.to/1VcPQcH
B&N: http://bit.ly/1NzTtSQ
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1JeGJ27
iBooks: http://apple.co/1Ylkgwz

CHECK OUT BOOK 1 IN THE SERIES:
DARE TO RUN (The Sons of Steel Row #1) by Jen McLaughlin
REVIEW 4.5 Stars: http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-3Os
Kindle: http://amzn.to/1QuZtSt
Amazon Paperback: http://amzn.to/1HZcyLJ
B&N: http://bit.ly/1Rrlh1K
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1HDfUZa
iTunes: http://apple.co/1QvrQ3f

~*~*~*~

$5 GIFT CARD
a Rafflecopter giveaway

~*~*~*~

[Shay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dare to Stay is the 2nd in the Sons of Steal Row series and I really enjoyed it! Even though this can be read as a stand alone, I recommend reading in order just to get the full effect of the story and its characters.

Chris is reeling from trying to murder his best friend. He knows what he's done and in clarity realizes what a mistake that it was. He runs. Runs to Molly. A neighbor that he has feelings for but knows nothing can come of it. He's a dangerous killer but he cannot stay away from her.

"For the first time since being a kid, I wanted a different life than the one I had. I wanted to pretend that that I wasn't a killer and that I wasn't unredeemable. I wanted to believe I could be a good guy."

Molly is a good girl. Seeing Chris has brought back all sorts of feelings that she doesn't want to feel. She cannot be with a killer. He believe that she can do better though. But the heart wants what the heart wants.

"Not everything that is scarred is incapable of being saved"

Just an all around good story. Good depth on its characters. I definitely want to see what happens next!!

Story 5
Sex 4
Overall 5

Reviewed by Shay from Mommys a Book Whore

[Sheryl C. Nash · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Berkley*

[Gail Mitchell · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really want to like this series but, omg, it is hard to get into this book. For 90% of this book Chris is constantly pushing Molly away- I am bad for you, I am have done bad thing, I am a killer, you are too beautiful for me, to soft and clean for me..this goes on and on. Molly hasn't seen Chris in years, when she next sees him, he is covered in blood, in an alley, in the bad part of the city, but, she must save and protect him...really.
Molly is a sheltered, kindergarten school teacher, but seems okay with men getting killed in front of her. In fact the first time they had sex, Chris had just killed 3 men who invaded her home. She is cowering behind the sofa while he calmly drags the bodies to the garage, he then comes back in and they proceed to have a hot and heavy make out session. He then picks her up, and, stepping over the congealed blood on the floor, takes her to the bedroom to have amazing sex...the best sex in both their lives. What is wrong with these people?
I am moving on to the next book, I am going to try and keep an open mind, but, I am not holding out much hope. We will see.

[Lizzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not surprised that I loved this one just as much as the first.

This one picks up right where the first one left off which I really appreciated. You got to see Chris really go through it mentally as he comes to terms with what he’s done, how to remedy those things, and you get to see him start to admit that he is more than the unfeeling monster he tries so hard to be.

I love their romance, and I had no issue with either of the characters actually until the last like five chapters Molly started to get really wishy-washy and annoying about her feelings for Chris. She would say she loved him but then tell him to leave and then in the next, but tell him to stay and I’m like girl please get so serious you got a pick one babe, which is it? Other than that I really really loved each each other characters together. I think they completed each other and complemented each other in a way that no one else could.

I love how Molly was ready to defend her man at the very end, when Mitchell and the cops were talking shit lol. This was a really cute read. I loved it. Just gotta read the last one and this trilogy will be completed!!!

[Elizabeth Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

look at that cover!!! hottie!! i am always getting my author names mixed up but i could have swore i have read something from Jen before? i see this is a series book 2 ... i didn't feel lost in reading it out of order??! love the characters ... i did listen on Audible ...my main issue was the dude who did (narrators were: Joe Arden & Maxine Mitchell) Joe seems so quiet ... i did have the kindle up on high on several locations just to hear ...not sure what was going on? Maxine was awesome!! don't get me wrong I appreciate Joe's voice but it was just kind of hard to hear??! not sure why?!!

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chris has definitely made some poor choices in life. The latest one was turning on his best friend and trying to kill him in order to move up higher in the gang they are in. Yeah, that didn't go over too well and he finds himself bleeding out in an alleyway. Not only that but his neighbor, who he's been admiring since he was a little boy, just so happens to stumble upon him and decides she has to help him. Letting her get close to him will only result in putting a target on her back as well as make him weak to his enemies... and man, does he have a lot of enemies.

In Dare to Run, we followed Lucas, Chris' best friend. He got to see him interact with Lucas and we felt the betrayal when he attempted to kill Lucas. So, going into Dare to Stay, you already have this weariness with Chris. I wasn't sure how the author could write a book about such a horrible character. I mean, he pretended to have his best friend's back, a guy who always had his back since childhood, and then he just turned on Lucas. I wasn't overly sure that the author would be able to make me feel anything but disgust towards Chris but she managed to pull it off.

Dare to Stay starts off with Lucas in an alleyway bleeding to death. He's regretting the choices he's made and really having a moment of self-loathing moment in the alley. Even though he seems to regret what he did to his friend, I still wasn't sold on him being the Hero. Even when Molly takes him into her house to patch him up and let him heal, I still was weary. In all honesty, it took me a while to fully warm up to him. However, between him cooking her dinners, fixing things around her house, and curling up on the couch with her cat he grew on me. Before I even knew it I was rooting for him and hoping he could get his life on track. However, at no point did I forget how much of a cold-blooded killer he was. Especially since there were a few times where he shot and killed guys who were hunting him.

Molly was an interesting character. Her father was killed by a gangbanger and ever since then she's been afraid to go out and make friends. She's afraid of the danger and afraid of the pain of losing another person. So, she pretty much goes to work and then goes straight home. However, on her way home she comes across Chris and she can't just leave him, no matter how much he threatens her to do so. Her father was the kind of person who tried to help the troubled youth. Not to mention, Chris has always made a habit of popping by the house when he's in town and helping her do little things like painting shutters, mowing the lawn, et cetera. Which is why Molly takes it upon herself to bring Chris home, patch him up, and keep him in hiding at her place until heals. She's not afraid of him but she is afraid of the life he means. That's something that she battles with throughout the entire novel and that's something that I really liked about her character. She didn't just fall blindly in love with him. She loved the man, but she didn't love what he did.

"Tonight, Chris had shared his limited medical supplies with me, and he had spent years doing things for me while asking nothing in return. I guess it was a case of like father, like daughter, because there was no way I was going to turn away from a guy in need. No way could I walk away from Chris. Not when this might be the moment tat defined his future choices. All he needed was a little push from someone who cared enough to push. And, inexplicably... that someone was me."

While Dare to Stay can be read as a stand-alone, I think it's best to read this series in order. Like I said, you meet Chris in the first book and you really feel his betrayal. I think for someone just starting out with this book, you go in with a clean slate and you don't really see the huge change in Chris. Not to mention there's some development with a side character who plays a pretty big role in this story. Not to mention that his story is next and it's one I've been dying to read since Dare to Run.

One random thing I like about this series is the title of both the individual books and the series. So far, each of the Hero's are from the Sons of Steel Row gang. As for the title, each one has "dared to..." in some way when it comes to said gang. Lucas dared to make a run for it and escape out of the gang, Chris dares to stay in in the hopes of taking the gang out and making the neighborhood safe again, and the next book is Dare to Lie. Which, makes perfect sense if you've read the previous two books, but I won't go into that and give it away.

If you are looking for a series that has some questionable Hero's who fall in love and try to change their ways, then this is the book for you. I, personally, can not wait for the next book.


Favorite quote...
"In his arms, I felt special. Unique. One of kind. Like a princess. And he was my tarnished prince."

[Kassiah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew this book was going to be about Chris. But NGL, I can't wait to read more about Scotty!!!! I can't wait for this!



Review:

5 stars.

This book is standalone, but you really should read Dare to Run first. Not only because it is an amazing book (and one of my favorites last year), but because you won't really understand everything going on here--and their significance--if you don't read it first. Careful for spoilers below if you haven't read Dare to Run but plan to.

When I saw that this book was going to be about Chris, I have to admit that I was shocked. I mean, really? But like every other book by Jen McLaughlin, I was immediately sucked into the story as soon as I started it. And...I think I kind of love Chris.



I know, right? For sure, after reading this, I definitely understand him more. No, I absolutely do not like what he did, and I don't really understand that, but I get what led him to it. And he is obviously trying to make up for it now.

I might be too late to make it up to Lucas, to let him know how sorry I was for what I did, but I could save Scotty. Because I owed it to Lucas.

So without trying to give away too much of what happened in the first book, Chris made a horrible mistake--one that he should have paid for with his life (and made me hate him). Because Lucas truly loved him like a brother, he didn't kill him. And now Chris has made it his mission in life to protect Lucas's brother, Scotty, even if it's to his own detriment. His only reason for living at this point is protecting Scotty and his secret--and he isn't afraid to go out, guns blazing.

"Never fuck with someone who's got nothing to lose."

After being wounded in a fight, he breaks into a drugstore for medicine and supplies and happens upon her childhood dream girl and former neighbor, Molly, who basically insists that he come home with her to convalesce. Of course, you know what happens. No matter how many times Chris drew the line that separated them, you can't fight fate. But how to you fight for love when you're life is a ticking time bomb, ready to go off at a moment's notice?

This book. *clutches chest* Like I said, I didn't think I was going to like it because I hated Chris at the end of Dare to Run. But...damn. He's got the soul of an artist, is protective, and though he made horrible mistakes, he's not a horrible person. I really loved him. I loved his relationship with Molly and the fact that he had loved her his whole life. I loved that he called her Princess. :) I liked Molly, too. She was surprisingly strong for someone so seemingly delicate. I loved them together.

She was the prettiest thing I'd ever seen. And she'd never stop making me want to be a better man.

My one issue with the book was the constant appearance of a mysterious black sedan. I don't understand why he didn't tell Scotty!!!

I loved this book, and know for sure that this series is one of my all-time favorites. Action-packed, emotionally-charged, raw and thrilling, Dare to Stay is a must read for all romance lovers. You won't regret it. And oh.my.rob! I cannot wait--I mean--am desperate to read Scotty's story. Ahhhh!

--
For more reviews and bookish talk, visit our blog at Pretty Sassy Cool

[Jen (That's What I'm Talking About) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having betrayed his best friend in order to take his position in the Sons of Steel Road gang, Chris was the "bad guy" from the first Sons of Steel Road title, Dare to Run. Dare to Stay opens moments after the dramatic conclusion of the previous book, with Chris experiencing a true epiphany; remorse over his actions and the loss of his only true friend. Beat up and near death, Chris breaks into a pharmacy to help himself recover. However, he wasn’t expecting genuine kindness from his longtime crush, Molly.

Molly’s father was killed in a gang-related hold up five years ago, so it’s no wonder she seldom goes out after dark and never takes risks with her heart. However, finding her neighbors’ son, Chris, badly injured in the alley on the anniversary of her father’s death feels like a sign to Molly, and she insists on bringing him home and helping him. Now the pair dances around their unspoken attraction, trying to fight their feelings.

After having mixed feelings about the first book in the series, I found myself surprisingly entertained with Dare to Stay. I was concerned with the plot - one involving the redemption of a man who has committed an awful sin; however, Ms. McLaughlin handles the entire plot with a healthy dash of realism together with a strong emotional thread. I felt Chris’s absolution was tempered with the perfect amount of guilt and desire to change. The author created a strong backstory for Chris, one filled with abusive parents and attempts to do the right thing, so when he realizes the errors of his ways, it comes off sincere.

Chris and Molly work as a couple because they have a history. I love the little bits of romance an unworthy Chris gave to Molly because she was a light in his dark world. Likewise, Molly recalls her previous interactions with Chris with fondness and a bit of lust. When the pair finally gives into their mutual desires, it is smokin’ hot! The scenes worked as an extension of their strong feelings, both lust and love, because the author developed a solid history between the pair.

The issues I had with Dare to Stay were minor - the “I’m no good for you,” and “I’ll have to leave her” sentiments dragged for the first third to half of the book. It continued even after they got together, but I loved that they actually fought to be together. I didn’t mind the back and forth, on-again-off-again, because both characters had conflicting emotions. They felt love for one another, but didn’t see how being together would work. And while some may not like how neatly everything tied up in the end, I did… I love me some happy endings. I liked how Chris dealt with his betrayal, and his decisions worked for me.

In the end, Dare to Stay was an enjoyable, entertaining read. I liked that Chris was a redeemable character, especially after his betrayal of his best friend in the first book. Molly and Chris were both sweet and completely sexy. Will they work in the long run? I think so… the author put a lot of passion into her characters, and their actions gave me hope for their longterm story.

My Rating: B, Liked It
Review copy provided by publisher

[Barb Lie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dare to Stay by Jen McLaughlin is the 2nd book in her The Sons of Steel Row series. Dare to Stay picks up after the first book, Dare to Run leaves off. I was surprised to find out the McLaughlin used Chris O’Brien as this books hero, as he was the bad guy in the previous book. Once I found out he was the hero, I was prepared to dislike him, since I felt what he did was unforgivable. Of course, authors do have a way to win you over. :)

Molly Lachlan is our heroine, and I liked her from the start. Molly lives alone, and keeps mostly to herself, though her friends at work keep trying to get her to go out. Since her father’s murder at the hands of a gang, Molly tries to keep her distance. Then one night she sees Chris lying in an alley way having been shot and bleeding profusely. Molly knows Chris from her teenage days, and privately had a crush on him. She does not know that Chris is a member of the Sons of Steel Row gang. She helps Chris and brings him to her place to heal him, and learns quickly about his dangerous and violent lifestyle.

Chris, while he lies there thinking he will die, regrets his actions in betraying his best friend, Lucas. He plans to help Lucas’s brother to make up for all the bad things he knows were so wrong. Chris wants to leave Molly’s house, so not to put her in danger, but he knows he cannot leave until he becomes stronger.

What follows is a sweet romance of two people living completely different lives. Chris’s father was abusive; he is a gang member, and knows nothing of killing rival gang members. Molly was sweet, smart, a kindergarten teacher and lived a comfortable life. Molly finds herself falling for Chris, despite his determination not to stay. Dare to Stay is also an exciting story, with Chris pulled into fights with the rival gang often, and in a short time, Molly will also get pulled into the danger. We get to see Scott, as he will play a big part of this story, working with Chris and eventually helping him. So many times throughout the story, Molly has doubts if her relationship with Chris is worth all the worry; especially with Chris always in the middle of all that danger, and his willingness to give his life up to save Scott, in penance for betraying Lucas. Despite her begging him to step away, Chris refuses to leave the gang and Scott. He knows he has fallen in love with her, but does not believe he is worthy of her. Will they ever be able to stay together? With the war ongoing with the rival gang, will Chris even survive?

Jen McLaughlin has written another wonderful story of two opposites, one being an anti-hero, whose chances at love and happiness were unlikely. I surprised myself by liking Chris by the time I was half way through, and I loved Molly, the perfect heroine. Dare to Stay was an exciting, emotional, sexy and violent story. I loved every moment of it.

Barb
The Reading Cafe

[Casey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Find this review and more at Ramblings From This Chick

Dare to Stay is the second book in the Sons of Steel Row series by Jen McLaughlin. This book picks up right after where the first book ends, though it does feature a different couple than the first book. While this book could be read as a standalone story, I would really recommend reading these in order if possible. I couldn't wait to see what would happen in this book after finishing Dare to Run, and I am really enjoying this series.

Still reeling from the loss of his best friend, Chris O'Brien barely survives after a hit is placed on him. Trying to find a safe place to lie low, he thinks of the one perfect place from his childhood, and winds up at Molly Lachlan's door. Chris and Molly both soon realize the danger that places her in, yet they are unable to fight the connection between them. But can Chris keep Molly safe while also protecting Lucas's little brother Scotty or will Molly end up hurt because of Chris?

Chris and Molly come from different worlds, yet their connection is undeniable. They are pretty much opposites in every way, where Molly is sweet and nice, Chris was the bad boy that you couldn't help but love and hope could be redeemed. While I liked Molly, Chris was the one that really held my attention. He was magnetic and sexy, and I didn't want to stop reading to see what would happen for him. I felt emotionally invested in Chris with his past and all that he had been through, and that had me connecting more with him than I was able to with Molly. I still liked her, but I just didn't feel as invested in her as I did Chris.

While I liked this book and the continuation of the series, I have to admit that this book wasn't quite as on point as the first one was for me. The first book had me captivated from the very first page and was raw and gritty and it was just so different from the norm when it comes to romance novels. But this one didn't have quite that seem feel, and I think a lot of that was because we spent more time in this story in Molly's world. I also felt like the author went out of her way to constantly remind the reader of the differences between Molly and Chris, and it got to the point that it felt like we were being beat over the head with it. It came off as redundant and as though the reader was not smart enough to remember that he was the bad guy while she was the innocent good girl. I am really looking forward to getting the next book in this series, and I am excited that it is Scotty's story! I can't wait to get to know him better and see what Jen McLaughlin has in store for him. If you are looking for a different series with a raw and gritty feel, this is one worth checking out.

**ARC Provided by Publisher**

[Melody May (What I'm Reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Posted on What I'm Reading

Before proceeding any further, you must read Dare to Run, because Dare to Stay picks up after a certain point. You have to read Dare to Run to understand why Chris is trying to break apart his road to hell. Stop right here, because there is a spoiler from the previous book. Sorry, it has to happen, because it's the starting point of Dare to Stay.

Chris was perfectly fine with building his personal road to hell. Hell he didn't mind lay brick by brick, but when he realize what he had become after Dare to Run he decided it was time to atone for his crime. Yeah, when you try to kill your best friend/blood-brother and make it look like his brother his brother was trying to off him is a pretty low point in life. Yep, my mouth dropped when I read that and that was when I knew I had to continue with the series, I had to find out how Chris's story played out. So, glad I did. Yes, I was a little hesitant at first, because I did have a rough start with Dare to Run, but Dare to Stay excellent read. I mean Jen had me at the beginning with Chris basically dying in the alley when Molly stumble upon him, and she decided to take him in. Granted it probably wasn't the best idea of Molly, I mean her father died by a thug. However, she felt this was a sign from her father to help Chris out. She definitely need a change in her life. Haha, I bet she never expected this.

Chris and Molly are polar opposites. She's sweet, bubbly, and light shines all around her, while Chris is dark, dangerous, and everything he touches dies. However, he would love to have a little light in his life even though he doesn't deserve that. However, throughout the story he aims to do things right through Scotty, Lucas's brother.

All right, Dare to Stay is pretty awesome. We get to see more of Chris's good side. You would never know he had one, but starts to show it. Yes, he's still a ruthless killer, but now he only kills if he has to. Molly makes him a better person. Miss Sunshine is great influence on Chris. She doesn't change herself to be with Chris; she tends to be her same self, which is pretty awesome. The Sons of Steel Row is something to keep an eye out on. This is a series you can't pick up in the middle, you have to read from book one. Granted you wouldn't be totally lost. If you are into dirty, gritty, underworld, gangs, The Sons of Steel Row might be your kind of read.

Copy provide by Berkley via NetGalley

Rating:
4 1/2 Stars

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surviving on the streets in South Boston is hard. Each day you are forced to deal with uncertainty and the possibility that you may not see another day. For Chris, his life inside the gang - The Sons of Steel Row - leads him to tread on the wrong side of the law. This man is ruthless, jaded, and most of all he shows no mercy. Life with the Sons of Steel Row can be a death sentence for so many. Fate intervenes for Chris when he finds himself left bloodied, bruised, and on knocking on deaths door.

Every girl around loves their father unequivocally. For Molly - the loss of her father to a gang related crime left a hole in her heart. His life was dedicated to helping others and Molly found herself facing the same mantra. Discovering Chris knocking on deaths door pulled at Molly’s heartstrings. The straight laced kindergarten teacher was no longer looking at the boy that grew up in her neighborhood. She was discovering the nuances of a killer that faced more in a lifetime than she could every imagine.

Keeping Chris safe became the drive that fueled Molly to help him. The two began to feel an attraction that was nothing new for Chris. His adoration of Molly had gone on for years….she just didn’t know it yet. Now life in a gang would come knocking on Chris’ door. Nthing could have prepared Molly for the destruction that would follow in Chris’ wake.

Dare to Stay featured such an unlikely romance between Molly and Chris. Each coming from the completely opposite lifestyles. They say opposites attract and that proves to be the case for Molly and Chris. Life in the Sons of Steel Row proves to be deadly for its members. Something Chris is discovering he is not immune to. The chemistry between Chris and Molly was unexpected and full of action. I found myself rooting for them from the moment Molly found Christ battered and broken. Nothing is ever easy in this neighborhood and Molly and Chris will have to face his association in a gang. Will they find a way to overcome the odds? Is their romance destined to be or will it crash and burn before they have a chance at a life together???

[Once · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story: Dare to Stay, book 2 in "The Sons of Steel Row" series, is Chris O'Brien's book. It starts out with him bleeding out in an alley way of South Boston believing he is on death's doorstep. He did the absolute UNTHINKABLE in book one: betrayed his life long best friend and gang brother, Lucas, in the worst way possible. However, instead of flat out killing Chris, Lucas allows him to live. Molly Lachlan the gorgeous, well-off, classy "girl next door" teacher, finds Chris and saves him from death. Molly has dealt with devastating loss from gang violence before and she doesn't want to let anyone in that could have the potential to put her through that type of loss again. Sometimes, the heart wants what the heart wants.

The likes: I started the series with book 2 and had no problem getting into the story. I wasn't lost at all because Jen does an amazing job of giving just enough details from book one to "catch the reader up". I like that the book was written in dual point of views because I loved getting inside both Chris and Molly's heads. I thought the setting descriptions were excellent! I could clearly picture the run down, scary, gang filled streets of Boston. I thought the chemistry between Chris and Molly was undeniable! There was a little bit of insta-love with Molly and Chris, which isn't my favorite, but I cheered them on the entire book.

The dislikes: I loved Chris' character development but would like to have had a little more from Molly. I kept waiting for a big climax to happen but I don't feel like there was one. I was left wanting just a tad bit more plot wise.

The rating: My rating for this book is a solid 4 stars because I thought it was edgy and entertaining. I read this book very quickly and would definitely recommend this series. I cannot wait to read book 3!!

http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2016...