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Room for Love #2
Heartless
For James Motel and Levi Kadish, it's hate at first sight.
Levi thinks James is an arrogant out-of-towner, and James thinks Levi is a smug local with an overblown opinion of himself. Together, the two of them are like oil and water, but Levi likes the way he feels when James looks at him, and James really loves the sound of Levi's voice when he says...
When he says those heartless things.
In the middle of a baking lesson James never wanted, the unresolved tension between Levi and him boils over, and James is left with more than rugburn. Levi's words are emblazoned in his heart, and he's eager for more.
Levi has never had something feel as right as his unconventional relationship with James, and when he finds himself with nowhere to go, he turns to the one man he knows who won't turn him away...even though he's the only man who should.
Levi thinks James is an arrogant out-of-towner, and James thinks Levi is a smug local with an overblown opinion of himself. Together, the two of them are like oil and water, but Levi likes the way he feels when James looks at him, and James really loves the sound of Levi's voice when he says...
When he says those heartless things.
In the middle of a baking lesson James never wanted, the unresolved tension between Levi and him boils over, and James is left with more than rugburn. Levi's words are emblazoned in his heart, and he's eager for more.
Levi has never had something feel as right as his unconventional relationship with James, and when he finds himself with nowhere to go, he turns to the one man he knows who won't turn him away...even though he's the only man who should.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2020
120 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
About the author
Kate Hawthorne
93 books938 followersWith over two dozen published romances to her name, Kate Hawthorne has built a recognizable brand around telling emotional stories that pack a figurative (and sometimes literal) punch.
Existing on a steady diet of wine and coffee, Kate spends her days dreaming up angsty stories full of heat, kink, and heart. Kate now lives in Louisville, where she writes romance, reads romance, and hides from the humidity.
Visit her website at http://www.katehawthornebooks.com
Existing on a steady diet of wine and coffee, Kate spends her days dreaming up angsty stories full of heat, kink, and heart. Kate now lives in Louisville, where she writes romance, reads romance, and hides from the humidity.
Visit her website at http://www.katehawthornebooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
February 23, 2024
2.5 - During my last read I was lamenting the lack of an STI diagnosis, can happily say this delivered on that account. Not sure how I feel about the MC catching it from a woman but I’ll try not to think too hard about that. This is my first read by this author and I’m still undecided on whether their writing is for me, it felt rather disjointed and melodramatic. I never really got their relationship. I couldn’t see why they even hated each other, they both are just labelled as ‘assholes’ and yelled at each other a lot but there was never a reason why. I also couldn’t discern a clear boundary between their humiliation kink and their everyday interactions. It felt unbalanced to me the way they continued to speak to each other so hatefully for seemingly no reason when not in a sex scene and there was no safe word/limits discussion. I absolutely didn’t buy the sudden I love you’s.
I also didn’t understand where Simon got the money for the food van. There is a lot of page time dealing with the Simon thing but that whole situation felt poorly developed. I’ve actually read Simon’s story by another author in this multi authored universe and I didn’t feel the backstories aligned that well. I did like the relationships with the other Motel brothers and can see there is quite a few different stories set up for other characters.
I skipped book 1 of the series because it was my least favourite trope - best friends dad, 18yr old/43yr old. I do wonder if reading this would have given me some valuable backstory so I didn’t want to judge this too harshly on that account, I’d say this is a generous 3 stars.
There was some surprise kinks here that I don’t believe are mentioned in the blurb or foreword, I think the only word to clue you in to anything not vanilla is that they are described as ‘unconventional’. Be prepared for some unexpected watersports and a fisting scene. If this is the only reason you’re reading this book then they both occur in the final 20%, you’re welcome.
I also didn’t understand where Simon got the money for the food van. There is a lot of page time dealing with the Simon thing but that whole situation felt poorly developed. I’ve actually read Simon’s story by another author in this multi authored universe and I didn’t feel the backstories aligned that well. I did like the relationships with the other Motel brothers and can see there is quite a few different stories set up for other characters.
I skipped book 1 of the series because it was my least favourite trope - best friends dad, 18yr old/43yr old. I do wonder if reading this would have given me some valuable backstory so I didn’t want to judge this too harshly on that account, I’d say this is a generous 3 stars.
There was some surprise kinks here that I don’t believe are mentioned in the blurb or foreword, I think the only word to clue you in to anything not vanilla is that they are described as ‘unconventional’. Be prepared for some unexpected watersports and a fisting scene. If this is the only reason you’re reading this book then they both occur in the final 20%, you’re welcome.
June 22, 2022
2⭐️
I wasn't a fan of the peeing kink. I have more hope for the rest of the brothers and the trope & kink in them
If I remember correctly it wasn’t even mentioned it was gonna have watersports which is essential cuz it ain’t everybody’s thing
I wasn't a fan of the peeing kink. I have more hope for the rest of the brothers and the trope & kink in them
If I remember correctly it wasn’t even mentioned it was gonna have watersports which is essential cuz it ain’t everybody’s thing
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2024
When Levi and James met for the first time you could almost see the daggers that they were sending to each other. They couldn't find a good word to speak... snarky and snippy didn't begin to describe it. I know there are folks whose kink is humiliation and degradation, but I don't understand how this can be in any way a "turn on"...but...to each his own. The 4-star rating is for my lack of understanding and for wanting to shake some sense and manners into them both and not in any way about the writing, or the ability to tell a worthy story by this wonderful author.
Levi was sarcastic and James was indignant and furious through the majority of the story, yet they still managed to keep being drawn like a magnet to one another. Their mutual dislike did absolutely nothing to stop the intense physical attraction. Levi's every word to James was cruel and insulting and James thrived under this humiliation and rough passion and kept finding reasons to return for more. Their relationship just kept revolving over the course of the story. What seemed like pure, unadulterated hatred started to give way into something new and unexpected. Levi's compulsion to make sure James was okay at the clinic; James in a near panic to rush over and apologize to Levi; Levi cooking comfort food for James after a hard day... these little moments gave me some hope for them.
When things started to get serious between James and Levi, it was sad to see almost everything else then began falling apart. It seemed like James struggled with every aspect of his life and even after Levi accepted that he and James maybe had something besides hate to build a life on, he still had his own family problems. Their journey was so full of ups and downs, stops and starts, and there were a few moments when I genuinely doubted that they could find a way to be together. By the end of this story, they were so different from how they were in the start. I still don't understand this kink and I really don't want any more characters in my stories to be so involved in it. Frankly it started to make me anxious and tired just waiting to see what they were going to do or say next...but I was happy to see James and Levi grow together instead of apart.
Levi was sarcastic and James was indignant and furious through the majority of the story, yet they still managed to keep being drawn like a magnet to one another. Their mutual dislike did absolutely nothing to stop the intense physical attraction. Levi's every word to James was cruel and insulting and James thrived under this humiliation and rough passion and kept finding reasons to return for more. Their relationship just kept revolving over the course of the story. What seemed like pure, unadulterated hatred started to give way into something new and unexpected. Levi's compulsion to make sure James was okay at the clinic; James in a near panic to rush over and apologize to Levi; Levi cooking comfort food for James after a hard day... these little moments gave me some hope for them.
When things started to get serious between James and Levi, it was sad to see almost everything else then began falling apart. It seemed like James struggled with every aspect of his life and even after Levi accepted that he and James maybe had something besides hate to build a life on, he still had his own family problems. Their journey was so full of ups and downs, stops and starts, and there were a few moments when I genuinely doubted that they could find a way to be together. By the end of this story, they were so different from how they were in the start. I still don't understand this kink and I really don't want any more characters in my stories to be so involved in it. Frankly it started to make me anxious and tired just waiting to see what they were going to do or say next...but I was happy to see James and Levi grow together instead of apart.
May 26, 2023
One of my favourite reads of the year so far.
"Heartless" is utterly fantastic and it screams "ME" so much I'm firmly convinced Kate Hawthorne wrote it with yours truly in mind.
Kidding, but seriously: "Heartless" has everything I usually love in romances, and then some stuff I didn't think I'd love, but here you go... *wags eyebrows*
This book is another reminder of why I read romances so much: it gave me freaking everything. And I already know this one is going to be my favourite of the series (and probably of Kate Hawthorne's entire backlist).
James and Levi's story is what my reading dreams are made of: enemies-to-lovers and hate sex extraordinaire (plus a double dose of "you infuriate me, but I can't stop thinking of you"), a whole lot of steam and kink (ft. a few kinks I didn't think I'd love but here we go: degradation kink, water sports, fisting), the dirtiest dirty talk I've ever had the pleasure of reading about, two absolutely insufferable, stubborn and ridiculously lovable idiot MCs (grumpy X grumpy at its finest!), found family, banter and a good dose of angst.
I loved every single second I got to spend with James and Levi, and I never wanted to leave: even when they were being childish and mean and stubborn, I loved them.
Their dynamic was addictive, explosive and so damn fun, and I adored them together: I loved how reluctantly obsessed they were with one another, how the hate slowly transformed into love, how even when they were firmly in the lovers phase of their relationship, their dynamic was still mean (but consensually™) and brutal, but also infused by love and care and affection. GAH, I just loved them so damn much.
And the found family! The Motel brothers individual and group relationships are never easy and simple, but the love and affection between them comes through loud and clear. And Simon and Levi's relationship is equally complex and believable: I know Simon is supposed to have a story somewhere, I need to look into that, and I know there're a few more books in this series left, but the bond between these two left me deeply heartbroken, but also hopeful they'll finally and thoroughly mend their relationship in the future.
I loved the writing, I loved every single side character, and I cannot wait to read Charlie's story. I'm beyond excited for him to finally get his chance at a HEA.
"Heartless" is utterly fantastic and it screams "ME" so much I'm firmly convinced Kate Hawthorne wrote it with yours truly in mind.
Kidding, but seriously: "Heartless" has everything I usually love in romances, and then some stuff I didn't think I'd love, but here you go... *wags eyebrows*
This book is another reminder of why I read romances so much: it gave me freaking everything. And I already know this one is going to be my favourite of the series (and probably of Kate Hawthorne's entire backlist).
James and Levi's story is what my reading dreams are made of: enemies-to-lovers and hate sex extraordinaire (plus a double dose of "you infuriate me, but I can't stop thinking of you"), a whole lot of steam and kink (ft. a few kinks I didn't think I'd love but here we go: degradation kink, water sports, fisting), the dirtiest dirty talk I've ever had the pleasure of reading about, two absolutely insufferable, stubborn and ridiculously lovable idiot MCs (grumpy X grumpy at its finest!), found family, banter and a good dose of angst.
I loved every single second I got to spend with James and Levi, and I never wanted to leave: even when they were being childish and mean and stubborn, I loved them.
Their dynamic was addictive, explosive and so damn fun, and I adored them together: I loved how reluctantly obsessed they were with one another, how the hate slowly transformed into love, how even when they were firmly in the lovers phase of their relationship, their dynamic was still mean (but consensually™) and brutal, but also infused by love and care and affection. GAH, I just loved them so damn much.
And the found family! The Motel brothers individual and group relationships are never easy and simple, but the love and affection between them comes through loud and clear. And Simon and Levi's relationship is equally complex and believable: I know Simon is supposed to have a story somewhere, I need to look into that, and I know there're a few more books in this series left, but the bond between these two left me deeply heartbroken, but also hopeful they'll finally and thoroughly mend their relationship in the future.
I loved the writing, I loved every single side character, and I cannot wait to read Charlie's story. I'm beyond excited for him to finally get his chance at a HEA.
May 6, 2021
DNF at 26%.
I just can't. Everyone is so angry all the time. And we don't get even close to enough explanation to why that is. James literally walks in to Levi's bakery and Levi decides that he hates him. That's it. Done. The writing was sloppy with a lot of spelling mistakes and a proper editor would've been needed. I will try the third book though since I liked the first one much better than this.
I just can't. Everyone is so angry all the time. And we don't get even close to enough explanation to why that is. James literally walks in to Levi's bakery and Levi decides that he hates him. That's it. Done. The writing was sloppy with a lot of spelling mistakes and a proper editor would've been needed. I will try the third book though since I liked the first one much better than this.
Read
February 8, 2023I went into reading this book knowing that I probably wasn't going to like it. Having read Simon's story from On the Market before reading Levi's, I didn't really have a good impression of Levi or James. They both so some really assholish things, especially in regard to Simon's faith.
Add in enemies to lovers, a trope I would sooner leave than take. Throw in some humiliation kink. There wasn't too much about this I was into.
At least we finally got a . You can't bring it up once in the first book and multiple times in this book and not actually include it in a scene, so hurray for making it onto the page.
All that aside, I did enjoy the writing... though there are a few times (and I found the same with the first book) where the dialogue gets a little confusing to follow... which I think is a mix of formatting and sometimes of too many he/him/his being thrown around to the point you don't know which he is his him.
Add in enemies to lovers, a trope I would sooner leave than take. Throw in some humiliation kink. There wasn't too much about this I was into.
At least we finally got a . You can't bring it up once in the first book and multiple times in this book and not actually include it in a scene, so hurray for making it onto the page.
All that aside, I did enjoy the writing... though there are a few times (and I found the same with the first book) where the dialogue gets a little confusing to follow... which I think is a mix of formatting and sometimes of too many he/him/his being thrown around to the point you don't know which he is his him.
June 19, 2022
I'm really sad that this book didn't work for me. It felt like the author wrote it out of order and in pieces. Which is fine because I know that works for some, but if you do that, then you need to read through it once it's all together. I was confused sometimes and frustrated others. The first half of the book was better than the second. The second half was a cluster. It was difficult to figure out what the MCs were even trying to communicate to each other. It just felt half put together and needed a content editor or honest betas. All that being said, I'm still going to read the next book in the series because book one wasn't disappointing.
February 17, 2021
I only meant to read a chapter of this before bed and here I am at 3am having finished the whole thing. I quickly got wrapped up in Levi and James. I should have known.
From the very first chapter there’s instant heat and chemistry between these two main characters. When they first meet they’re both showing the angry sides of themselves but the clashing is what ends up working for them. Over some weeks they go back and forth fighting with each other over the most ridiculous things. But in the end it’s really just because they both are hiding who they really are. Once they can let that go and face who they are in life and like it it can be wonderful. And they do.
“Levi had always been a tidal wave, battering against James’s jagged corners until he’d worn them down into something soft and manageable. He’d turned the ugly parts of James into something beautiful, but he didn’t even realize.”
Kate Hawthorne writes enemies to lovers in a fashion that constantly keeps leaving me amazed. It’s refreshing. I tend to stay away from that trope because sometimes it’s so cringey, but I’ve honestly only ever felt comfortable with the way Hawthorne does it. She has a way of bullying, degrading and humiliating a character but also loving the shit out of them at the same time. I’ve said in another review before that the words missing between the sentences are what matter most in her books. It stays true. There’s so much said without being said. And I love that.
There’s some BDSM undertones in this book but without ever officially touching on the lifestyle. It was done correctly and beautifully and I always appreciate that in her work as well.
Last note: Damn does she know how to write a fucking sex scene. Jeeesssuss. 🥵
From the very first chapter there’s instant heat and chemistry between these two main characters. When they first meet they’re both showing the angry sides of themselves but the clashing is what ends up working for them. Over some weeks they go back and forth fighting with each other over the most ridiculous things. But in the end it’s really just because they both are hiding who they really are. Once they can let that go and face who they are in life and like it it can be wonderful. And they do.
“Levi had always been a tidal wave, battering against James’s jagged corners until he’d worn them down into something soft and manageable. He’d turned the ugly parts of James into something beautiful, but he didn’t even realize.”
Kate Hawthorne writes enemies to lovers in a fashion that constantly keeps leaving me amazed. It’s refreshing. I tend to stay away from that trope because sometimes it’s so cringey, but I’ve honestly only ever felt comfortable with the way Hawthorne does it. She has a way of bullying, degrading and humiliating a character but also loving the shit out of them at the same time. I’ve said in another review before that the words missing between the sentences are what matter most in her books. It stays true. There’s so much said without being said. And I love that.
There’s some BDSM undertones in this book but without ever officially touching on the lifestyle. It was done correctly and beautifully and I always appreciate that in her work as well.
Last note: Damn does she know how to write a fucking sex scene. Jeeesssuss. 🥵
July 7, 2021
I’m so disappointed that I didn’t like Levi and James’ story. Honestly I’m probably being generous with 2 stars because I hated both Levi AND James and almost dnf’d at 35% but I want to read Charlie’s story so I powered through.
I first met these characters in Simon’s story (Levi’s brother) Love Him Free by E.M. Lindsey and this feels like a lesson in why you don’t read books out of order and/or the “dangers” of sharing a universe (and characters) with different authors. I knew Simon and Levi didn’t have a good relationship from Simon’s story but the issues and the backstory for the brothers didn’t align IMO and Levi was just a horrid person, as was James…..and for no apparent reason!
The book also didn’t flow well and felt jumbled and confusing. Fingers crossed for the rest of the Motel brothers.
Recommendation: read this series before reading E.M. Lindsey On the Market series as Ms Hawthorne’s secondary characters are Ms Lindsey’s main characters.
I first met these characters in Simon’s story (Levi’s brother) Love Him Free by E.M. Lindsey and this feels like a lesson in why you don’t read books out of order and/or the “dangers” of sharing a universe (and characters) with different authors. I knew Simon and Levi didn’t have a good relationship from Simon’s story but the issues and the backstory for the brothers didn’t align IMO and Levi was just a horrid person, as was James…..and for no apparent reason!
The book also didn’t flow well and felt jumbled and confusing. Fingers crossed for the rest of the Motel brothers.
Recommendation: read this series before reading E.M. Lindsey On the Market series as Ms Hawthorne’s secondary characters are Ms Lindsey’s main characters.
April 23, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Heartless is the second book in Kate Hawthorne’s Room for Love series. The series focuses on the five Motel brothers and their journey in Cherry Creek running the hotel their father left them. The men all live together at the hotel (with the exception of one brother who didn’t take the deal with their father), so they appear in one another’s stories. The first two books also overlap in timeline. That said, I do think from a story perspective, this one stands alone just fine, so you can jump in here if you want.
I am a fan of enemies to lovers and this story definitely brings that on big time. James and Levi seem to truly hate each other, even once they start sleeping together. And that hate fuels their encounters, making things super intense between them.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Heartless is the second book in Kate Hawthorne’s Room for Love series. The series focuses on the five Motel brothers and their journey in Cherry Creek running the hotel their father left them. The men all live together at the hotel (with the exception of one brother who didn’t take the deal with their father), so they appear in one another’s stories. The first two books also overlap in timeline. That said, I do think from a story perspective, this one stands alone just fine, so you can jump in here if you want.
I am a fan of enemies to lovers and this story definitely brings that on big time. James and Levi seem to truly hate each other, even once they start sleeping together. And that hate fuels their encounters, making things super intense between them.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
September 7, 2021
Levi and James are everything I didn't know I needed. I'm a huge fan of enemies-to-lovers books, so the aggressive tension between these two hit all the right notes for me. If you haven't read Book 1 of this series, I highly recommend you do so first because there are some spoilers for it in this one (also because it's just an amazing book).
When Levi sees James for the first time, he's not impressed. He refuses to sell him anything, claiming he doesn't do business with a**holes. James, for his part, is infuriated by how arrogant and cocky Levi is. In their initial interactions, I could practically see daggers shooting out of their eyeballs towards each other. Their banter is snarky and snippy and I loved it. Levi doesn't take any of James's sh*t, and it was so satisfying to see him put James in his place.
Much to Levi and James's dismay, their mutual dislike isn't enough to stop the intense physical attraction they have for each other. "I can't be around you without wanting to choke you to death with my dick, James. That's not a healthy working relationship." When Levi and James do come together for the first time, it's incredibly erotic, intense, messy, and a touch desperate. "Levi's eyes screamed I hate you, screamed I want to take it out on you in all the ways you need." The way James goes soft and compliant when Levi verbally humiliates him is so hot.
What I loved just as much as the intense, steamy sex was how Levi and James's relationship evolved over the book. At the beginning, the only thing between them was hatred. Slowly, over time, hints of something more started to expose themselves: Levi feeling compelled to make sure James is okay at the clinic; James nearly panicking in his rush to apologize to Levi for something he said; Levi bringing James comfort food when he's having a bad day. I loved seeing how the initial flare of passion developed into something much deeper than hate sex and shared kink.
When things did start to get serious between James and Levi, everything started falling apart. Levi wants every part of James, but James is still struggling to accept the darker parts of himself. Levi is terrified to love James for real because he's never gotten to keep the things he loves. These two broke my heart as the struggled to accept their love. At the same time, Levi and his brother Simon are working through some difficult issues. The dynamic between these brothers helped me understand a lot of Levi's reactions throughout the book. I can't wait to read Simon's full story--Rocco the cat vs. Rocco the man is going to be hilarious.
By the end of the book, James and Levi are almost unrecognizable from how they acted towards each other in the beginning. James has figured out how to accept himself and give Levi all of his love, and Levi has what he's always wanted: to be the most important thing to someone.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
When Levi sees James for the first time, he's not impressed. He refuses to sell him anything, claiming he doesn't do business with a**holes. James, for his part, is infuriated by how arrogant and cocky Levi is. In their initial interactions, I could practically see daggers shooting out of their eyeballs towards each other. Their banter is snarky and snippy and I loved it. Levi doesn't take any of James's sh*t, and it was so satisfying to see him put James in his place.
Much to Levi and James's dismay, their mutual dislike isn't enough to stop the intense physical attraction they have for each other. "I can't be around you without wanting to choke you to death with my dick, James. That's not a healthy working relationship." When Levi and James do come together for the first time, it's incredibly erotic, intense, messy, and a touch desperate. "Levi's eyes screamed I hate you, screamed I want to take it out on you in all the ways you need." The way James goes soft and compliant when Levi verbally humiliates him is so hot.
What I loved just as much as the intense, steamy sex was how Levi and James's relationship evolved over the book. At the beginning, the only thing between them was hatred. Slowly, over time, hints of something more started to expose themselves: Levi feeling compelled to make sure James is okay at the clinic; James nearly panicking in his rush to apologize to Levi for something he said; Levi bringing James comfort food when he's having a bad day. I loved seeing how the initial flare of passion developed into something much deeper than hate sex and shared kink.
When things did start to get serious between James and Levi, everything started falling apart. Levi wants every part of James, but James is still struggling to accept the darker parts of himself. Levi is terrified to love James for real because he's never gotten to keep the things he loves. These two broke my heart as the struggled to accept their love. At the same time, Levi and his brother Simon are working through some difficult issues. The dynamic between these brothers helped me understand a lot of Levi's reactions throughout the book. I can't wait to read Simon's full story--Rocco the cat vs. Rocco the man is going to be hilarious.
By the end of the book, James and Levi are almost unrecognizable from how they acted towards each other in the beginning. James has figured out how to accept himself and give Levi all of his love, and Levi has what he's always wanted: to be the most important thing to someone.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 15, 2020
Kate Hawthorne plus enemies to lovers plus a kink we don't get to read very often? Yes, yes, please. This book hits every single button I have and then some.
It was easy to see while reading Reckless who the next book was going to be about, James and Levi had explosive chemistry and I would have whined if they weren't the next book because I don't think the tension between them would have held.
I love James. Everything about him. From his hot temper to his confusion over why he liked what he liked in bed. We saw in both Unfettered and Reckless that he was the brother who is the most unsettled. Getting to know him, it's easy to see why he's the one who's closest to Cameron. He might be an asshole but he loves his family and he's unapologetic about having an opinion, so you know you'll get the real him. Even when you wish he were a little more delicate about things. The only thing that made me not love him is the fact that he's a toast heathen.
My heart went out for Levi, it really did. His temper burns as hot as James', they seem to bring out the best in each other, which at times can be seen as the worst. He loves his family as much as James loves his, though he only has his brother Simon. He loves his bakery, even if he wishes he had more freedom. He broke my heart every time he tried to connect with Simon and get on the same page as him. Every fight they had broke my heart, every ounce of insecurity made me want to wrap him up and take the hurt away.
Levi and James almost set the bakery on fire when they finally give in to whatever has been brewing between them. It's hot and dirty. It's supposed to be a one-off to get rid of the tension between them, but how often does that work out? They quickly find themselves falling into something they have no control over. It's explosive and everything I love about enemies to lovers.
We all know that Kate Hawthorne is one of the best kink writers out there and this book helps prove that. While it's not formal as some of her other books, the relationship these two fall in is as hot and as well written as all her others. I haven't read many books with humiliation play. It's not an easy kink to write because there's a fine line between what's enough and what is going too far. What Levi and James explore is perfect. They don't understand their play, not at first, they just know it gets them off. It confuses them at first, James especially, who needs a reason why the things Levi does to him gets him off, but there's not too much angst spent on that, thank god. When they catch feelings for one another, that's where you can see the tenderness between them. You can understand how it works for them. There's a scene in the book after they both feel things for each other, which helps cement the type of relationship they have and sets the boundaries for them.
Though Heartless is vastly different from Reckless it has the same undercurrent of family written into it. In book one, Cameron's wish to have his family around was so strong you could feel it roll off the pages. Here, you learn more about the brothers and see that the same need is reflected in all of them, even if it's not as obvious. Both Levi and James struggle to find their places in their respective families, though both of them have very different experiences. I love that both books have that thread of connection between them and cannot wait for the other books. There's a lot to unpack between the Motel brothers and I hope that the other books help bring them together because so far I am loving all the brothers.
It was easy to see while reading Reckless who the next book was going to be about, James and Levi had explosive chemistry and I would have whined if they weren't the next book because I don't think the tension between them would have held.
I love James. Everything about him. From his hot temper to his confusion over why he liked what he liked in bed. We saw in both Unfettered and Reckless that he was the brother who is the most unsettled. Getting to know him, it's easy to see why he's the one who's closest to Cameron. He might be an asshole but he loves his family and he's unapologetic about having an opinion, so you know you'll get the real him. Even when you wish he were a little more delicate about things. The only thing that made me not love him is the fact that he's a toast heathen.
My heart went out for Levi, it really did. His temper burns as hot as James', they seem to bring out the best in each other, which at times can be seen as the worst. He loves his family as much as James loves his, though he only has his brother Simon. He loves his bakery, even if he wishes he had more freedom. He broke my heart every time he tried to connect with Simon and get on the same page as him. Every fight they had broke my heart, every ounce of insecurity made me want to wrap him up and take the hurt away.
Levi and James almost set the bakery on fire when they finally give in to whatever has been brewing between them. It's hot and dirty. It's supposed to be a one-off to get rid of the tension between them, but how often does that work out? They quickly find themselves falling into something they have no control over. It's explosive and everything I love about enemies to lovers.
We all know that Kate Hawthorne is one of the best kink writers out there and this book helps prove that. While it's not formal as some of her other books, the relationship these two fall in is as hot and as well written as all her others. I haven't read many books with humiliation play. It's not an easy kink to write because there's a fine line between what's enough and what is going too far. What Levi and James explore is perfect. They don't understand their play, not at first, they just know it gets them off. It confuses them at first, James especially, who needs a reason why the things Levi does to him gets him off, but there's not too much angst spent on that, thank god. When they catch feelings for one another, that's where you can see the tenderness between them. You can understand how it works for them. There's a scene in the book after they both feel things for each other, which helps cement the type of relationship they have and sets the boundaries for them.
Though Heartless is vastly different from Reckless it has the same undercurrent of family written into it. In book one, Cameron's wish to have his family around was so strong you could feel it roll off the pages. Here, you learn more about the brothers and see that the same need is reflected in all of them, even if it's not as obvious. Both Levi and James struggle to find their places in their respective families, though both of them have very different experiences. I love that both books have that thread of connection between them and cannot wait for the other books. There's a lot to unpack between the Motel brothers and I hope that the other books help bring them together because so far I am loving all the brothers.
August 19, 2022
Strong emotions and long-buried hurt seem to be the themes of this book. James Motel is forced to live with his brothers in the family hotel for a year in order to gain their inheritance. He's frustrated, angry, abrasive, and impolite. When he attempts to purchase baked goods from Levi's baker, Levi refused to sell to him based on his rude behavior. Levi is also at odds with his observant brother Simon, who wants to run a kosher bakery. Since James and Levi have to deal with each other for business, they both begin to feel a sort of angry lust. Can they find a deeper relationship when they are mostly adversaries? This book has a lot of humiliation kink, which is handled in a really unique and interesting way, as it's new to both of them. The book also has family love, community support, and an all-consuming love.
April 23, 2020
Omg..I don't know how to review this without spoiling but damn this book is hot...James and Levi really do show the meaning of hate s*x....This was just everything I love in a book and done so well I just kept reading....It's the quickest I've read a book this year....They both keep going back for more ....Levi has a kind of harsh relationship with his brother but it's kinda what pushes James and Levi together...I'm not gonna say anymore but it's a brilliant read and one i shall definitely be re-reading x
June 8, 2021
Mm hm. Just as good the second time around. The humiliation kink, and the way that James needs it and Levi craves it too, is really well done here. The painful family dynamics are, as always, spot on and messed up. I had forgotten how much of a jerk Simon seems in this book - you really need to read his story to understand why Simon does what he does. (Love Him Free, On the Market book 1, by EM Lindsey - different author, set in the same town of Cherry Creek.)
Bought with whisper sync.
Bought with whisper sync.
May 20, 2020
This really pushed my boundaries in terms of kink. There was one certain bit towards the end that I really didn't like. Not kink shaming, it's just not for me. I just don't get that particular kink personally.
I kept reading because I'm too invested in these brothers and the whole town of Cherry Creek. I also just loved Levi and James so damn much, and their character development over the book was great. They're both very different people by the end, and for the better.
Overall, I liked this one more than the first book, despite the one little chapter with the kink I just cant get my head around!
I kept reading because I'm too invested in these brothers and the whole town of Cherry Creek. I also just loved Levi and James so damn much, and their character development over the book was great. They're both very different people by the end, and for the better.
Overall, I liked this one more than the first book, despite the one little chapter with the kink I just cant get my head around!
April 26, 2020
This book pushed some of my kink limits but it was so well written that I wasn't turned off by it at all. The story itself was emotional when we learn where the characters come from. It also makes you want a Simon's story...that you can read as it was written by E.M Lindsay.
I am so in love with Cherry Creek and having at least 2 authors writing in that world at the same time gives hours of enjoyment
I am so in love with Cherry Creek and having at least 2 authors writing in that world at the same time gives hours of enjoyment
June 8, 2020
Intense and different.
June 15, 2020
This was hot and sexy.
June 6, 2021
I think it’s wonderful and awesome and spectacular that this author includes a Jewish character here and even more so incorporates words, properly transliterated mind you, in Hebrew … so Levi is not only Jewish but probably Israeli as well 😊😊😊!! It’s fantastic and I fully support and encourage this author writing more books like that 😬😊😬!! Keep it up 😊😊😊!!
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January 17, 2021
I'm not even sure this deserves two stars. The story made so little sense and I basically felt like I'd been dropped into the middle of something that was never explained. I didn't read the first book in the series so maybe I missed something, but since that book wasn't their story I doubt it. Levi and James hate each other, have hate sex, hate each other some more, and then are completely in love. I mean ... what? There was no transition to love, they never get to know each other, they just supposedly love each other. The mess with Levi and his brother, Simon is just that, a mess that makes no sense, and regardless of how often it's discussed it's never explained in at all. They have no money, the bakery is supposedly about to go under, but then Simon buys Levi a food truck, where'd that money come from? There are so many things that make no sense and the editing is so lacking, I really don't know why I bothered finishing it.
March 3, 2023
This would have been a 4 star for me, but honestly there were times when I was reading that I found my mind wandering and had to go back and re-read a page or paragraph. So I guess what I'm saying is it didn't pull them in quite like my typical 4 star reads. I also felt the main characters went from hate to being in love and admitting it pretty quickly - or maybe I just didn't feel their connection? Overall it was a good read, especially if you are into BDSM and kink.
March 24, 2021
I mixed it up by listening to the audiobook of Heartless from Kate Hawthorne, narrated by Evan Carolina until my air pods died; but it was sooooo good that I couldn't wait for them to recharge so I HAD to pick up the book on Kindle Unlimited and finish it before I could do anything else! Suffice to say I went back and listened to the remaining chapters as soon as my battery was recharged!!!!
Quite frankly I'm surprised my air pods didn't blow my ear drums because this book is seriously good on all levels of everything. It has everything you didn't know you needed and then something else happens and you need that in your life as well! Baked goods said one way but spelt another, hot men that take an instant dislike to each other, a 35 year old virgin, sticky hands, flour, maple syrup and bacon, Passover, knitting, delicious brownies and blondies, clippers, a food truck, Kippahs, homemade cookies, family love, relationship breakdown, shame, sunshine, Shabbat, whispered conversations, Challah, friends with benefits, hate s*x and everything is totally brought to life by Evan Carolina in such a way that you'll need to listen to this series over and over again! He catches the nuances of each character through the scenes, the catch of ones breath, the whispered words of another, the angst or anger somewhere else. It's all in there along with moans to make your knees week.
But Evan is only bringing to life the words written by the genius that is Kate Hawthorne. In Heartless she really has shone a light on a kink that is probably written about to often because it's not demonstrable, it's verbal and whilst one would think that would be easy for a wordsmith it's the emotional and psychological behaviours behind the scenes for the characters that needed to be explored just as much as the physical acts they went through.
The book is as good as everything else Kate Hawthorne has written, if you've read her stuff before I don't need to tell you how good it it; if you haven't read her before, WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN??
Only book two in the series I can't wait for Evan to get his lips round book three so that I can listen to that; I'm not picking up the book until the audiobook is available.
I'm totally recommending this audiobook to everyone who doesn't have a weak disposition! xx
Quite frankly I'm surprised my air pods didn't blow my ear drums because this book is seriously good on all levels of everything. It has everything you didn't know you needed and then something else happens and you need that in your life as well! Baked goods said one way but spelt another, hot men that take an instant dislike to each other, a 35 year old virgin, sticky hands, flour, maple syrup and bacon, Passover, knitting, delicious brownies and blondies, clippers, a food truck, Kippahs, homemade cookies, family love, relationship breakdown, shame, sunshine, Shabbat, whispered conversations, Challah, friends with benefits, hate s*x and everything is totally brought to life by Evan Carolina in such a way that you'll need to listen to this series over and over again! He catches the nuances of each character through the scenes, the catch of ones breath, the whispered words of another, the angst or anger somewhere else. It's all in there along with moans to make your knees week.
But Evan is only bringing to life the words written by the genius that is Kate Hawthorne. In Heartless she really has shone a light on a kink that is probably written about to often because it's not demonstrable, it's verbal and whilst one would think that would be easy for a wordsmith it's the emotional and psychological behaviours behind the scenes for the characters that needed to be explored just as much as the physical acts they went through.
The book is as good as everything else Kate Hawthorne has written, if you've read her stuff before I don't need to tell you how good it it; if you haven't read her before, WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN??
Only book two in the series I can't wait for Evan to get his lips round book three so that I can listen to that; I'm not picking up the book until the audiobook is available.
I'm totally recommending this audiobook to everyone who doesn't have a weak disposition! xx
May 18, 2024
I don't think this author is for me. Every time I've tried to read one of her books, I didn't really like it. The way the romantic relationships are built is not believable. It was also the case here. They hated each other, and they just stopped because they had sex? There was no real emotional intimacy.
I didn't like the characters either. None of them. They were incredibly childish and fought for no reason. The whole drama with Levi and his brother annoyed me. Simon literally put his own needs and opinions above Levi's, saying that Levi was supposed to “understand”, and he actually apologized for pushing Simon on this? That's not keeping the peace in the family, that's just letting your only relative walk all over you. Having trauma and being older don't mean you that you know better. Baking was Levi's dream, but Simon was the one who made decisions. Being co-owners means making joint decisions, but Simon apparently never got the memo.
Plus, I like when there's degradation in a book, but only if it's done well and not to hurt one of the MCs. However, I felt that sometimes Levi used his words to feel powerful. They only discussed limits in the last part of the book, which is insane if you actually do not want to hurt your partner. I get that Levi has abandonment issues and tried to push James away, but that was no excuse to try to wield sex and words like a weapon, knowing that James would probably just take it (he didn't, thankfully).
They said they loved each other, but it didn't feel like it until the very end, and maybe not even then. When the first “I love you” was uttered, it took me by surprise. I kept thinking, “Why? When did he actually manage to fall inlust love?”
Maybe I'm a bit too harsh, but there wasn't a single part I enjoyed, aside from some dialogues and one or two sex scenes that were kind of hot.
I didn't like the characters either. None of them. They were incredibly childish and fought for no reason. The whole drama with Levi and his brother annoyed me. Simon literally put his own needs and opinions above Levi's, saying that Levi was supposed to “understand”, and he actually apologized for pushing Simon on this? That's not keeping the peace in the family, that's just letting your only relative walk all over you. Having trauma and being older don't mean you that you know better. Baking was Levi's dream, but Simon was the one who made decisions. Being co-owners means making joint decisions, but Simon apparently never got the memo.
Plus, I like when there's degradation in a book, but only if it's done well and not to hurt one of the MCs. However, I felt that sometimes Levi used his words to feel powerful. They only discussed limits in the last part of the book, which is insane if you actually do not want to hurt your partner. I get that Levi has abandonment issues and tried to push James away, but that was no excuse to try to wield sex and words like a weapon, knowing that James would probably just take it (he didn't, thankfully).
They said they loved each other, but it didn't feel like it until the very end, and maybe not even then. When the first “I love you” was uttered, it took me by surprise. I kept thinking, “Why? When did he actually manage to fall in
Maybe I'm a bit too harsh, but there wasn't a single part I enjoyed, aside from some dialogues and one or two sex scenes that were kind of hot.
December 13, 2020
I read "Love him free by E.M Lindsey", which is about Simon and his love story, so I wanted to read this one to find out what happened between Levi and his brother. I was really disappointed because I thought something big had happened, but actually Levi is kind of just a spoiled brat and Simon totally didnt deserve being made fun of all the time. In this book or the next. Now that I've read what actually happened between the two brothers, it's totally ridiculous that Levi and especially James was so mad in the Love him free book.
Now, I did like the kink aspect of this one. I liked the hate sex and I liked Levi's character aside from how he treats his brother. I was a little bored with some of the overly dramatic scenes between Levi and James, though. It just seemed the author was trying to put drama and angst in there that didn't make sense. Like, when they started to have sex and suddenly Levi wants to bake. Then he storms out in the middle of baking and James destroys the kitchen. It just all seemed silly and over the top. The whole "I hate you and don't want to love you" thing was too drawn out. I dunno. The book was alright, I guess but I probably won't read any more of them.
Now, I did like the kink aspect of this one. I liked the hate sex and I liked Levi's character aside from how he treats his brother. I was a little bored with some of the overly dramatic scenes between Levi and James, though. It just seemed the author was trying to put drama and angst in there that didn't make sense. Like, when they started to have sex and suddenly Levi wants to bake. Then he storms out in the middle of baking and James destroys the kitchen. It just all seemed silly and over the top. The whole "I hate you and don't want to love you" thing was too drawn out. I dunno. The book was alright, I guess but I probably won't read any more of them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2020
I’m always excited to read a book by KH because I seriously never know where it’ll take me. Ms. Hawthorne is definitely the queen of kink but underneath all that sexiness, and sometimes filthiness, there is a sappy and sweet love story that just makes you go “Awww!!”
Levi Kadish is a baker who has struggled with feeling loved and accepted by his older brother. His parents died when he was young, then his grandmother so he also has abandonment issues. He feels unlovable. James Motel is a bit harder to describe but feels ashamed for the things that turn him on. The men hate each at first sight and fight nonstop til they realize maybe they don’t actually “hate” each other anymore. They fill a role in other lives that they didn’t realize needed filling. Levi’s love and caring for James is beautiful and James finally accepting himself is amazing.
These two men are beautiful together and I love seeing so much intense drama and love and hot sex and acceptance in this story. Levi’s brother Simon gave me a headache but I know his story is coming so I am giving him a little leeway but right not he’s not a favorite.
Levi Kadish is a baker who has struggled with feeling loved and accepted by his older brother. His parents died when he was young, then his grandmother so he also has abandonment issues. He feels unlovable. James Motel is a bit harder to describe but feels ashamed for the things that turn him on. The men hate each at first sight and fight nonstop til they realize maybe they don’t actually “hate” each other anymore. They fill a role in other lives that they didn’t realize needed filling. Levi’s love and caring for James is beautiful and James finally accepting himself is amazing.
These two men are beautiful together and I love seeing so much intense drama and love and hot sex and acceptance in this story. Levi’s brother Simon gave me a headache but I know his story is coming so I am giving him a little leeway but right not he’s not a favorite.
April 23, 2021
This book was a first for me in many ways. My first story with a truly Bi character (not just bi-curious or confused). My first book with the kink being humiliation (there was also one scene of piss play and fisting--both a first for me to read). So if none of that is something you are interested in reading then I wouldn't bother with this book.
That being said I thought this was a great book of two people starting out hating each other and having hate sex to falling in love. They both go through a journey of excepting the kinky sex they want to have and realizing it's okay.
Side note--there does seem to be a lot of Jewish customs and traditions included in this story. Of which I know nothing about so I can't say if anything is accurate or anything. As a reader with no real knowledge, I feel like we were given enough information for it to make sense for the struggles of the character.
In all, I enjoyed this book. It was fast passed and fun.--Don't take how long it took me to read it compared to the first a sign I didn't enjoy it. I got really sick right in the middle! Otherwise, I would have finished it sooner.
That being said I thought this was a great book of two people starting out hating each other and having hate sex to falling in love. They both go through a journey of excepting the kinky sex they want to have and realizing it's okay.
Side note--there does seem to be a lot of Jewish customs and traditions included in this story. Of which I know nothing about so I can't say if anything is accurate or anything. As a reader with no real knowledge, I feel like we were given enough information for it to make sense for the struggles of the character.
In all, I enjoyed this book. It was fast passed and fun.--Don't take how long it took me to read it compared to the first a sign I didn't enjoy it. I got really sick right in the middle! Otherwise, I would have finished it sooner.
April 24, 2020
I loved this book. James and Levi seemed so opposite when they were introduced in Reckless. In this story, which runs along the same timeline as that book, we see them antagonize each other, give in to steamy hate sex, then both become afraid and confused by the blasted feelings they start having for each other that are definitely not hate.
This is not a book for readers who need romances to be vanilla. It is not sweet. James has a humiliation kink that meshes well with Levi's desires. The sex scenes are hot and go outside the box of what some people might be comfortable with. That is part of what I love about it.
Levi and his brother Simon have a sad and complicated relationship, and I hope we learn more about that in future books in this series. I know Simon has secrets, and I hope he finds the person to help him work through his issues, the was Levi and James are doing with each other.
This is a wonderful series so far, and I'm happy there are more Motel brothers who need love. I will be sticking around for all of them to find their very unique and sexy HEA's.
This is not a book for readers who need romances to be vanilla. It is not sweet. James has a humiliation kink that meshes well with Levi's desires. The sex scenes are hot and go outside the box of what some people might be comfortable with. That is part of what I love about it.
Levi and his brother Simon have a sad and complicated relationship, and I hope we learn more about that in future books in this series. I know Simon has secrets, and I hope he finds the person to help him work through his issues, the was Levi and James are doing with each other.
This is a wonderful series so far, and I'm happy there are more Motel brothers who need love. I will be sticking around for all of them to find their very unique and sexy HEA's.
May 18, 2020
The second book in this compelling series was written just as well as the first! Ms. Hawthorne has a way of making her characters sexy and relatable.
James - The asshole brother in the family. Pushing everyone's buttons because he can...Until Levi.
Levi - The amazing baker, complicated family dynamic and newly found friend of Cameron's.
Levi pushes James to the point of breaking, but in a way that James never expected. Now James is questioning what he thinks of himself and wondering if he has always been this way or if he has finally found someone who can give him what he needs. While Levi is able to give James what he needs he finds himself resisting that this might be more then a quick moment.
Although I enjoyed reading the journey of James and Levi, the kink in the book pushed passed my limit of comfort. I truly enjoy the main parts of their story and was able to work past some of the scenes I had issues with because Kate is such a wonderful writer. I cannot wait for the next one in the series!
James - The asshole brother in the family. Pushing everyone's buttons because he can...Until Levi.
Levi - The amazing baker, complicated family dynamic and newly found friend of Cameron's.
Levi pushes James to the point of breaking, but in a way that James never expected. Now James is questioning what he thinks of himself and wondering if he has always been this way or if he has finally found someone who can give him what he needs. While Levi is able to give James what he needs he finds himself resisting that this might be more then a quick moment.
Although I enjoyed reading the journey of James and Levi, the kink in the book pushed passed my limit of comfort. I truly enjoy the main parts of their story and was able to work past some of the scenes I had issues with because Kate is such a wonderful writer. I cannot wait for the next one in the series!
March 26, 2023
oh, where to begin when the grumpiest of the Motel Brothers, James gets put in his place by the baker who wasn't about to deal with him being an ass to him things get interesting. Levi was just the local Jewish baker who was tired of being in his brother's shadow, so he just helped at the bakery and made the desserts he was allowed to with the ingredients that his brother said he could. James just wanted to get this year over with so he could get his money and not work another day in his life, but when his older brother told him he needed to make a contract with the bakery to help the motel that was the last thing he wanted to deal with, but he did anyways. Will James drop his being an ass to everyone, or will Levi be the only one to be able to see the softer side of him, if there truly is a soft side. How well does business really mix with pleasure can these 2 make it work or will it blow up between these 2 smalls businesses? another amazing story by Kate and this audio is amazing once again.
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