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Hearts of Hollis #1
Marking Madden
Jade…
My ex-boyfriend ghosted me. The awful break-up that didn’t occur because he didn’t have the decency to actually say the words. Well, that happened to me. Now, he’s back in town and wants to be friends. Pretend nothing happened between us.
I have a better idea. Make him jealous.
Madden…
Love is blind. Damn right it is. I couldn’t see what was happening right in front of me. Love makes you do crazy things. This is also true. I stole a million dollars and I ran to a town that isn’t even on the map.
Now what?
Marking Madden is Jade and Madden’s story from the Hearts of Hollis Series. This book contains adult content, adult language, and sexual situations. It is intended for mature readers only.
My ex-boyfriend ghosted me. The awful break-up that didn’t occur because he didn’t have the decency to actually say the words. Well, that happened to me. Now, he’s back in town and wants to be friends. Pretend nothing happened between us.
I have a better idea. Make him jealous.
Madden…
Love is blind. Damn right it is. I couldn’t see what was happening right in front of me. Love makes you do crazy things. This is also true. I stole a million dollars and I ran to a town that isn’t even on the map.
Now what?
Marking Madden is Jade and Madden’s story from the Hearts of Hollis Series. This book contains adult content, adult language, and sexual situations. It is intended for mature readers only.
228 pages, Paperback
First published December 9, 2016
38 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Dykes
95 books2,542 followersNicole Dykes is a wife and a professional assistant/mom to two gorgeous girls. Currently residing in Kansas, she’s a lover of coffee, Kansas City Chiefs, and all things romance.
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
September 4, 2019
I got the ARC of this book from one of the lovely authors in exchange for an honest review :) and I feel like I need to explain myself first... because I almost forgot to write this review... :) seriously, life and work has been crazy busy lately, that after posting some other reviews earlier in the week, I was so proud of myself, that I got everything ready on time, and now I can relax... and a day later I realized that I actually have one more to prepare for the week... :) since I am usually a very organized person, it shows how much stuff I actually have on my mind lately... *sighs* I am really counting down the days to christmas and some time to relax :) ok, but back to the topic, which is this really good book :) I really enjoyed the majority of it, but definitely had some issues that ended in me giving it a 3,75 stars rating :) so how about I will tell you more about the story itself, and then we will get to all my thoughts and feelings about it? ;)
Jade is a young woman who moved into this very small town a few years back, running away from her hard past... that is also what makes her a bit more mature than what I would expect of her, especially at her age... Madden shows up one night at a bar she's working in and he is running from certain things as well... I don't really want to say more about their individual stories, because this book is pretty short, so any detail will be spoilerific ;) what I can and will say, is how I really liked how their relationship evolved :) since at the beginning they are both sort of hung up on other people, the attraction and sparks between them lead to a let's-pretend-we're-dating-to-make-someone-jealous types of situations... ;) but it's all explained between them and since they are both perfectly ok with that plan, I was all for it :) the only time when stuff like that bothers me, is when one of the sides is secretly crushing on the other one... but back to our story :) with time, of course, it all changes between them... it's this friends-with-benefits-turning-surprisingly-into-something-more kind of a thing :) again, I can't tell you any specifics because of my no-spoilers rule, but it was sooo much fun to read... well, up until one moment at the end when the heroine did one of the stupidest things I hate in books... let's just say that making decisions for two people without actually talking to the person said decision regards to is... just stupid, in my opinion :) but that was just one worse part of the story :)
Overall I truly enjoyed it :) you can't tell the book is co-written by two authors, because the writing flows effortlessly :) it's also written in 2 POVS, which means we get the chapters from both Madden and Jade's points of view, which is my favourite type of writing style in books :) especially when you can actually see the difference in the way of thinking in those chapters :) even though I had my troubles with certain actions taken by the heroine, all in all, I truly enjoyed the characters in this book... not only the main couple, but also the secondary ones as well :) Casey, Jade's bestie was definitely my favourite :) so there is A LOT of potential for future stories :) and I know that they are already working on the sequel :) I won't spoil you the hero of that second book, although I totally know who it's going to be... ;) I'm definitely looking forward to going back to the little town created by these two lovely authors and I absolutely can't wait to get to know certain people more... :)
XOXO
A
Jade is a young woman who moved into this very small town a few years back, running away from her hard past... that is also what makes her a bit more mature than what I would expect of her, especially at her age... Madden shows up one night at a bar she's working in and he is running from certain things as well... I don't really want to say more about their individual stories, because this book is pretty short, so any detail will be spoilerific ;) what I can and will say, is how I really liked how their relationship evolved :) since at the beginning they are both sort of hung up on other people, the attraction and sparks between them lead to a let's-pretend-we're-dating-to-make-someone-jealous types of situations... ;) but it's all explained between them and since they are both perfectly ok with that plan, I was all for it :) the only time when stuff like that bothers me, is when one of the sides is secretly crushing on the other one... but back to our story :) with time, of course, it all changes between them... it's this friends-with-benefits-turning-surprisingly-into-something-more kind of a thing :) again, I can't tell you any specifics because of my no-spoilers rule, but it was sooo much fun to read... well, up until one moment at the end when the heroine did one of the stupidest things I hate in books... let's just say that making decisions for two people without actually talking to the person said decision regards to is... just stupid, in my opinion :) but that was just one worse part of the story :)
Overall I truly enjoyed it :) you can't tell the book is co-written by two authors, because the writing flows effortlessly :) it's also written in 2 POVS, which means we get the chapters from both Madden and Jade's points of view, which is my favourite type of writing style in books :) especially when you can actually see the difference in the way of thinking in those chapters :) even though I had my troubles with certain actions taken by the heroine, all in all, I truly enjoyed the characters in this book... not only the main couple, but also the secondary ones as well :) Casey, Jade's bestie was definitely my favourite :) so there is A LOT of potential for future stories :) and I know that they are already working on the sequel :) I won't spoil you the hero of that second book, although I totally know who it's going to be... ;) I'm definitely looking forward to going back to the little town created by these two lovely authors and I absolutely can't wait to get to know certain people more... :)
XOXO
A
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June 8, 2017
You marked my heart.....
First of all, I loved this book!! Loved all the characters in it. Well except for Madden's mom and dad they are snooty pompous jerks in my opinion. I don't think anybody should look down their noses at anyone.
Madden and Jade start out with a kind of friends with benefits kind of arrangement. Well you can guess what that leads to, yep you got it Love!! The storyline is fast paced, sex scenes are hot. The only bump in the relationship is could you give up millions to be with the one you've grown to love or go with the one whom has marked your heart??
If you want a brilliant quick read with amazing cast of characters then check this book out!! I devoured this book in one sitting, so yes I really loved it and it kept me entertained
Thanks Jamie Nibarger Ellis
First of all, I loved this book!! Loved all the characters in it. Well except for Madden's mom and dad they are snooty pompous jerks in my opinion. I don't think anybody should look down their noses at anyone.
Madden and Jade start out with a kind of friends with benefits kind of arrangement. Well you can guess what that leads to, yep you got it Love!! The storyline is fast paced, sex scenes are hot. The only bump in the relationship is could you give up millions to be with the one you've grown to love or go with the one whom has marked your heart??
If you want a brilliant quick read with amazing cast of characters then check this book out!! I devoured this book in one sitting, so yes I really loved it and it kept me entertained
Thanks Jamie Nibarger Ellis
May 30, 2019
Release date set for December 9th!
March 15, 2021
Madden Steel has grown up with the finest things in life. He has been shaped to work for his father’s company with his brothers. When the woman he loves accepts a wedding proposal from his brother he knows he just needs to get away for awhile. So what does he do? He steals money from his father and runs to the smallest town that he can find.
Jade lives in a very small town in Texas. She found the town of Hollis when she wanted to get away from her upbringing and start a new life. Working as a bartender at the only bar in town she knows everyone. When a mysterious man walks into the bar to rent a room she is instantly drawn and wants to know all about him.
Madden and Jade becomes friends pretty quick. Jade is still upset about a past break up and Madden is running away from his family troubles. The best way to get over the past is to rub it in their face. Madden helps Jade make her ex-boyfriend jealous but what they didn’t count on was having feelings for each other.
This was a very fun read. I was unable to put it down once I started reading. The chemistry between Madden and Jade is scorching and the storyline makes you feel as you are part of the small town and all of it’s drama. I cannot wait to see where this series takes us!
My Favorite Moment: I really enjoyed the night of the street dance.
Jade lives in a very small town in Texas. She found the town of Hollis when she wanted to get away from her upbringing and start a new life. Working as a bartender at the only bar in town she knows everyone. When a mysterious man walks into the bar to rent a room she is instantly drawn and wants to know all about him.
Madden and Jade becomes friends pretty quick. Jade is still upset about a past break up and Madden is running away from his family troubles. The best way to get over the past is to rub it in their face. Madden helps Jade make her ex-boyfriend jealous but what they didn’t count on was having feelings for each other.
This was a very fun read. I was unable to put it down once I started reading. The chemistry between Madden and Jade is scorching and the storyline makes you feel as you are part of the small town and all of it’s drama. I cannot wait to see where this series takes us!
My Favorite Moment: I really enjoyed the night of the street dance.
November 29, 2016
As soon as this book hit my kindle I dived straight it. I am a huge fan of Nicole Dykes so I was so excited!
This story follows Jade who moved to the small town of Hollis to get away from her horrible upbringing. Here, she creates her own family and gets herself a job and a home. Madden left his home town, job and family to get away from his life in general and the woman that he loves....who also happens to be marrying his brother. What starts as a jealousy ploy, soon turns hot and wicked and you can't help but fall for this couple as they fall for each other.
I really enjoyed this story and how you got to see Madden grow as a person and learn to live differently as to how he was brought up. And also see Jade stand by him and support his decisions. I'm a really big fan of books where the heroine is strong and independent and the male lead is hot and dirty mouthed so this book was definitely for me.
I was a fan of Keaton and Cassie and even had a soft spot for Brady in the end (really hope he gets his happy ending ;) ) but I couldn't help but dislike Caleb. Maybe it's cos I was team Madden from the beginning lol!!
This was another 5 star read for me and I cannot wait to read Cassie's books next!
Read and reviews by Ever Growing Book Obsession blog
This story follows Jade who moved to the small town of Hollis to get away from her horrible upbringing. Here, she creates her own family and gets herself a job and a home. Madden left his home town, job and family to get away from his life in general and the woman that he loves....who also happens to be marrying his brother. What starts as a jealousy ploy, soon turns hot and wicked and you can't help but fall for this couple as they fall for each other.
I really enjoyed this story and how you got to see Madden grow as a person and learn to live differently as to how he was brought up. And also see Jade stand by him and support his decisions. I'm a really big fan of books where the heroine is strong and independent and the male lead is hot and dirty mouthed so this book was definitely for me.
I was a fan of Keaton and Cassie and even had a soft spot for Brady in the end (really hope he gets his happy ending ;) ) but I couldn't help but dislike Caleb. Maybe it's cos I was team Madden from the beginning lol!!
This was another 5 star read for me and I cannot wait to read Cassie's books next!
Read and reviews by Ever Growing Book Obsession blog
June 21, 2017
I received this ebook in exchange for my honest review.
Madden leaves Dallas and his rich life when his best friend and love of his life tells him that she's marrying his brother. After a 3 hour drive, he finds himself in Hollis renting a one bedroom apartment above the only bad in town. Things get a lot more interesting when the gorgeous blonde bartender shows him up to his room.
Jade ran from abuse and neglect at 16, found her way to Hollis and made a life for herself. Now, a few years later, she's come face to face with her ex and love of her life when he comes back to town.
Both Jade and Madden are hurting but decide to hook up to make her ex jealous. The plan works but only after feelings for each other start to bloom.
J.L. Leslie and Nicole Dykes are new to me authors and I'm glad I stumbled upon them. Marking Madden is a sweet romance between 2 heart broken people who are trying to find comfort in their lives. It's well written and an enjoyable read. I'm excited to read the next one.
Madden leaves Dallas and his rich life when his best friend and love of his life tells him that she's marrying his brother. After a 3 hour drive, he finds himself in Hollis renting a one bedroom apartment above the only bad in town. Things get a lot more interesting when the gorgeous blonde bartender shows him up to his room.
Jade ran from abuse and neglect at 16, found her way to Hollis and made a life for herself. Now, a few years later, she's come face to face with her ex and love of her life when he comes back to town.
Both Jade and Madden are hurting but decide to hook up to make her ex jealous. The plan works but only after feelings for each other start to bloom.
J.L. Leslie and Nicole Dykes are new to me authors and I'm glad I stumbled upon them. Marking Madden is a sweet romance between 2 heart broken people who are trying to find comfort in their lives. It's well written and an enjoyable read. I'm excited to read the next one.
May 8, 2017
Marking Madden is a great emotional story about two people who lived totally different lives. Madden grew up with a good family life. He moved to Hollis to forget the woman who left him for his brother. Jade's childhood was rough so she left her hometown and moved to Hollis to start over. I devoured this book in one sitting, it's well written and the characters are believable. Parts of the story are really emotional and the passion and pain mixed with pleasure. Two lost souls looking for someone to love and have a life with. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
December 17, 2016
Loved it!
I was given an ARC for am honest review. I absolutely loved it, even cried. I love a book you can loose yourself in and be a part of. Madden is strong, sexy and very much his own man. Jade has endured things that she has allowed to make her a stronger person and not break her. These two start out helping each other, but find something they weren't expecting in the end. GREAT JOB GIRLS!
I was given an ARC for am honest review. I absolutely loved it, even cried. I love a book you can loose yourself in and be a part of. Madden is strong, sexy and very much his own man. Jade has endured things that she has allowed to make her a stronger person and not break her. These two start out helping each other, but find something they weren't expecting in the end. GREAT JOB GIRLS!
February 17, 2017
So good. There is going to be such a juicy review
February 1, 2017
Jade: That’s really all I’ve ever been to anyone, just a fling. A pretty little play thing. I get a lot of male attention because of my looks, but it’s always an infatuation. We have fun together. Great sex. I’m entertainment until they find something real, something better.
Madden: “You wanna make your ex jealous?” I ask. Jade gazes up at me with those endless blues of hers. I don’t give her the opportunity to answer. I lean down and capture her lips. The kiss is meant to piss Brady off. That’s it. But the second she parts her lips to let me in, it takes on a mind of its own. Jade’s lips are full and soft, gliding over mine with purpose and need. Her hands glide up my shoulders and tighten around my neck. I dig my fingers into her hips and pull her closer. Her body flattens against mine causing her breasts to push against my chest. Her tongue dances with mine. I want to suck on her bottom lip. I want to kiss her in more places besides these luscious lips. Damn, the way she tastes… Jade pushes against me, slowly breaking the kiss. Her lips are tinged red and slightly swollen. She reaches up and touches them with her fingertips. I wonder if they’re tingling like mine are.
They have chemistry.
Madden must notice this too because when the band starts playing “Anymore” by Travis Tritt, he pulls my body tight to him. I take his cue and wrap my arms around his neck as he holds me around my waist. I breathe in his cologne as we dance in the street at sunset. I ignore Brady’s eyes on mine and close my eyes allowing myself to get totally lost in the moment. When the song stops playing and another one begins, Madden and I stay frozen in each other’s arms.
They strike a deal:
He laughs, “Look, I like you. You’re a cool chick and fun to hang out with. We both have a shitload of baggage and aren’t equipped to start anything, but I don’t think that means we can’t have fun with each other occasionally.”
I turn my body so I’m facing him, his arm still around my shoulders. “So, like a friends with benefits thing?”
“I don’t know. Maybe just a “friends who enjoy each other’s bodies while they are going through some tough shit and figuring things out” thing.”
I laugh. That’s exactly a friends with benefits thing, but it doesn’t sound terrible. Maybe it’s what we both need right now. I nod my head and shrug my shoulders, “I wouldn’t be against that.”
He smiles and quickly pins me down on the bed, his body hovering over mine.
“Good and anytime I can make that asshole Brady squirm, I’m there.”
He really hates my ex. I reach up and touch the cut on his swollen lip from last night, gently.
“Does it hurt?”
He shakes his head, “Nah, he punches like a little bitch.”
They both have HORRIBLE parents!
“My mom’s a junkie. Was long before I was born.” Madden’s face shows the shock I was sure it would. “I don’t know who my father is and I don’t think she does either. She was with a lot of guys off and on until she married a real a-hole when I was eleven.”
He’s cautious, “How bad of an asshole?”
I try to down play it, “Just another abusive junkie.”
He places a reassuring hand on my bare hip, “He hurt you?”
“Just physically and he loved to call me a slut and whore, but that was it. I ran away before it could go any further.”
“I have to go, momma.” Jade walks away and the woman doesn’t attempt to stop her. I put my arm around Jade and together we walk back to my truck. Jade keeps her gaze focused out the window as I drive back to Hollis. Every few seconds, I see her wipe her hand over her cheeks. When we get back to her house, she walks inside and doesn’t invite me in or tell me I should leave. She goes straight to her bathroom and turns her shower on. I undress and step in behind her. She’s scrubbing herself until her skin is pink. I’m sure she feels like she needs to wash the dirt away. I take the washcloth and toss it to the floor.
“You’re clean, Jade. You’re clean.” I promise her and pull her against me. She sobs against my chest.
“She seems nice.” he comments & my father snorts. “She seems like an effing gold digger.” my father snips. “By the way, did you bring my money?”
“No, sir.” “I’m disappointed in you, Madden. It’s time you stopped playing this ridiculous game of yours. You have responsibilities,” he practically growls. I clench my jaw and let the seamstress continue to do her job. “I’ll bring the money when I come back for the wedding.” “And when do you plan to assume your job with the company?” he persists. “I don’t.”
“Excuse me.” my mother’s voice cuts through the moment. “I didn’t realize you brought a guest. I’ll have to change my entire seating arrangements.”
“I’ve already informed Carmella, mom. It’s fine.” I tell her as I turn to face her. “This is Jade.”
Jade steps forward with her hand extended. “It’s nice to meet you, Mrs. Steele.”
My mother looks down at Jade’s outstretched hand with disdain before turning and walking away, her heels clicking on the hardwood floor.
I put my hands on Jade’s shoulders and apologize for my mom’s behavior. “Told you my family was awful.”
“If you don’t come home, my money is no longer your money.” he informs me and I glare at him. “Why would I continue to support a son who doesn’t respect me? Someone who doesn’t even want his birthright? You have your entire future ahead of you! Your job at Steele Industries where you’d be making $2.5 million a year! Your yearly allowance is twice that much, Madden. Your trust fund has you and your future family set for life and you want to throw it all away for a cheap piece of ass!”
“Don’t talk about her like that!” I hiss.
“I did a little digging on Jade Bowen, son. She’s trash. Pure trash.” he says. “Her mother’s a junkie and her step-father is a low-level drug dealer. He’s also a registered sex offender in Houston. Your little girlfriend came from nothing and she’ll never become anything. She’s not even educated.”
“I know where she came from, dad.”
“Do you?” he persists. “Did you know she ran away and lived on the streets? I can’t blame her for wanting to get out of what I’m sure was a pure shithole, but what do you think she did to survive, Madden? She lived on the streets for years. A beautiful, young woman like herself. I imagine she did anything she could to make money.”
“She wouldn’t have done that.” I say, quietly. “Not Jade. She’s too smart for that.”
“She was desperate, son! Don’t think for one second she didn’t spread her legs when she needed to! Now you’re telling me you’re going to flush your entire future down the toilet for someone like that? Give everything up?”
They fall in love, have some drama thanks to the family.... but manage to find their way.
Madden: “You wanna make your ex jealous?” I ask. Jade gazes up at me with those endless blues of hers. I don’t give her the opportunity to answer. I lean down and capture her lips. The kiss is meant to piss Brady off. That’s it. But the second she parts her lips to let me in, it takes on a mind of its own. Jade’s lips are full and soft, gliding over mine with purpose and need. Her hands glide up my shoulders and tighten around my neck. I dig my fingers into her hips and pull her closer. Her body flattens against mine causing her breasts to push against my chest. Her tongue dances with mine. I want to suck on her bottom lip. I want to kiss her in more places besides these luscious lips. Damn, the way she tastes… Jade pushes against me, slowly breaking the kiss. Her lips are tinged red and slightly swollen. She reaches up and touches them with her fingertips. I wonder if they’re tingling like mine are.
They have chemistry.
Madden must notice this too because when the band starts playing “Anymore” by Travis Tritt, he pulls my body tight to him. I take his cue and wrap my arms around his neck as he holds me around my waist. I breathe in his cologne as we dance in the street at sunset. I ignore Brady’s eyes on mine and close my eyes allowing myself to get totally lost in the moment. When the song stops playing and another one begins, Madden and I stay frozen in each other’s arms.
They strike a deal:
He laughs, “Look, I like you. You’re a cool chick and fun to hang out with. We both have a shitload of baggage and aren’t equipped to start anything, but I don’t think that means we can’t have fun with each other occasionally.”
I turn my body so I’m facing him, his arm still around my shoulders. “So, like a friends with benefits thing?”
“I don’t know. Maybe just a “friends who enjoy each other’s bodies while they are going through some tough shit and figuring things out” thing.”
I laugh. That’s exactly a friends with benefits thing, but it doesn’t sound terrible. Maybe it’s what we both need right now. I nod my head and shrug my shoulders, “I wouldn’t be against that.”
He smiles and quickly pins me down on the bed, his body hovering over mine.
“Good and anytime I can make that asshole Brady squirm, I’m there.”
He really hates my ex. I reach up and touch the cut on his swollen lip from last night, gently.
“Does it hurt?”
He shakes his head, “Nah, he punches like a little bitch.”
They both have HORRIBLE parents!
“My mom’s a junkie. Was long before I was born.” Madden’s face shows the shock I was sure it would. “I don’t know who my father is and I don’t think she does either. She was with a lot of guys off and on until she married a real a-hole when I was eleven.”
He’s cautious, “How bad of an asshole?”
I try to down play it, “Just another abusive junkie.”
He places a reassuring hand on my bare hip, “He hurt you?”
“Just physically and he loved to call me a slut and whore, but that was it. I ran away before it could go any further.”
“I have to go, momma.” Jade walks away and the woman doesn’t attempt to stop her. I put my arm around Jade and together we walk back to my truck. Jade keeps her gaze focused out the window as I drive back to Hollis. Every few seconds, I see her wipe her hand over her cheeks. When we get back to her house, she walks inside and doesn’t invite me in or tell me I should leave. She goes straight to her bathroom and turns her shower on. I undress and step in behind her. She’s scrubbing herself until her skin is pink. I’m sure she feels like she needs to wash the dirt away. I take the washcloth and toss it to the floor.
“You’re clean, Jade. You’re clean.” I promise her and pull her against me. She sobs against my chest.
“She seems nice.” he comments & my father snorts. “She seems like an effing gold digger.” my father snips. “By the way, did you bring my money?”
“No, sir.” “I’m disappointed in you, Madden. It’s time you stopped playing this ridiculous game of yours. You have responsibilities,” he practically growls. I clench my jaw and let the seamstress continue to do her job. “I’ll bring the money when I come back for the wedding.” “And when do you plan to assume your job with the company?” he persists. “I don’t.”
“Excuse me.” my mother’s voice cuts through the moment. “I didn’t realize you brought a guest. I’ll have to change my entire seating arrangements.”
“I’ve already informed Carmella, mom. It’s fine.” I tell her as I turn to face her. “This is Jade.”
Jade steps forward with her hand extended. “It’s nice to meet you, Mrs. Steele.”
My mother looks down at Jade’s outstretched hand with disdain before turning and walking away, her heels clicking on the hardwood floor.
I put my hands on Jade’s shoulders and apologize for my mom’s behavior. “Told you my family was awful.”
“If you don’t come home, my money is no longer your money.” he informs me and I glare at him. “Why would I continue to support a son who doesn’t respect me? Someone who doesn’t even want his birthright? You have your entire future ahead of you! Your job at Steele Industries where you’d be making $2.5 million a year! Your yearly allowance is twice that much, Madden. Your trust fund has you and your future family set for life and you want to throw it all away for a cheap piece of ass!”
“Don’t talk about her like that!” I hiss.
“I did a little digging on Jade Bowen, son. She’s trash. Pure trash.” he says. “Her mother’s a junkie and her step-father is a low-level drug dealer. He’s also a registered sex offender in Houston. Your little girlfriend came from nothing and she’ll never become anything. She’s not even educated.”
“I know where she came from, dad.”
“Do you?” he persists. “Did you know she ran away and lived on the streets? I can’t blame her for wanting to get out of what I’m sure was a pure shithole, but what do you think she did to survive, Madden? She lived on the streets for years. A beautiful, young woman like herself. I imagine she did anything she could to make money.”
“She wouldn’t have done that.” I say, quietly. “Not Jade. She’s too smart for that.”
“She was desperate, son! Don’t think for one second she didn’t spread her legs when she needed to! Now you’re telling me you’re going to flush your entire future down the toilet for someone like that? Give everything up?”
They fall in love, have some drama thanks to the family.... but manage to find their way.
June 24, 2017
Riveting, sensual, and second chance romance story of Madden and Jade is sensational! Why waste time on wanting what was when something possible is right before your eyes-and it looks real fine! Great characters and fast paced story made this a MUST read. Loved it!
February 5, 2017
Jade’s just a young woman trying her best to overcome a bad past in the small town of Hollis, Texas after running away from home years before. Thanks to a steady job and good friends, she has a good life. The only bad spot is Brady Thompson, who unceremoniously dumped her after their time together the previous summer with no explanation. He seems to have rebounded quite nicely, though, as evidenced by his interest in a new woman. While struggling to keep her hurt feelings in check, Jade becomes interested in a handsome and mysterious newcomer who rents the apartment over the bar where she works.
Madden Steele is also a runaway, leaving his friends and family behind in Dallas after learning of his brother’s engagement to the woman he loves. With cash taken from his father, he secures living quarters in a place he feels no one will ever think to look for him. Determined to not use any more of that stolen money, he lands a job with a construction crew and does his best to adapt to small-town living. Madden drops his loner persona and forms a friendship with the pretty blonde waitress who caught his eye right from the get-go. When he learns about her bad breakup with Brady, he offers to help her get revenge by making the other man jealous.
It seems like a good plan at first, but when the so-called acting – in the form of strategically timed touching and kissing – turns into actions repeated without an audience, Jade and Madden embrace the undeniable attraction they have for one another. In the spirit of full disclosure, Madden tells Jade that his stay in Hollis is temporary. This is no problem for her since she isn’t interested in a serious relationship.
When Madden reluctantly agrees to be in his brother’s wedding, he convinces Jade to accompany him to Dallas for a tuxedo fitting. He reveals his true identity as one of the heirs of a large corporation and warns her about his ill-natured parents. He braces himself for a dreadful visit only to be surprised when the bride-to-be takes an immediate liking to Jade and insists on becoming friends. As expected, Madden’s parents make no attempt to hide their disgust with his new companion and demand he return home for good.
Although she keeps trying to deny it, Jade has formed deep feelings for Madden and doesn’t want him to leave Hollis for his old life in Dallas. But she worries that he’ll resent her one day if he doesn’t fulfill his destiny as a magnate. In an act of selflessness, she attempts to remove herself from the situation. It’s up to Madden to make her see that all that glitters is just an illusion, and that bigger isn’t always better.
What a great story! Jade’s such a strong heroine despite her awful past. I loved her immediately and rooted for her to find happiness the entire time I read. Madden’s aloof and semi-rude behavior put me off a little at first, but once his situation and backstory were revealed, I understood why he initially kept Jade at arm’s length. This definitely will NOT be the last book I read from this dynamic writing duo. I eagerly look forward to the next installment in the series!
Madden Steele is also a runaway, leaving his friends and family behind in Dallas after learning of his brother’s engagement to the woman he loves. With cash taken from his father, he secures living quarters in a place he feels no one will ever think to look for him. Determined to not use any more of that stolen money, he lands a job with a construction crew and does his best to adapt to small-town living. Madden drops his loner persona and forms a friendship with the pretty blonde waitress who caught his eye right from the get-go. When he learns about her bad breakup with Brady, he offers to help her get revenge by making the other man jealous.
It seems like a good plan at first, but when the so-called acting – in the form of strategically timed touching and kissing – turns into actions repeated without an audience, Jade and Madden embrace the undeniable attraction they have for one another. In the spirit of full disclosure, Madden tells Jade that his stay in Hollis is temporary. This is no problem for her since she isn’t interested in a serious relationship.
When Madden reluctantly agrees to be in his brother’s wedding, he convinces Jade to accompany him to Dallas for a tuxedo fitting. He reveals his true identity as one of the heirs of a large corporation and warns her about his ill-natured parents. He braces himself for a dreadful visit only to be surprised when the bride-to-be takes an immediate liking to Jade and insists on becoming friends. As expected, Madden’s parents make no attempt to hide their disgust with his new companion and demand he return home for good.
Although she keeps trying to deny it, Jade has formed deep feelings for Madden and doesn’t want him to leave Hollis for his old life in Dallas. But she worries that he’ll resent her one day if he doesn’t fulfill his destiny as a magnate. In an act of selflessness, she attempts to remove herself from the situation. It’s up to Madden to make her see that all that glitters is just an illusion, and that bigger isn’t always better.
What a great story! Jade’s such a strong heroine despite her awful past. I loved her immediately and rooted for her to find happiness the entire time I read. Madden’s aloof and semi-rude behavior put me off a little at first, but once his situation and backstory were revealed, I understood why he initially kept Jade at arm’s length. This definitely will NOT be the last book I read from this dynamic writing duo. I eagerly look forward to the next installment in the series!
December 12, 2016
jade is a young girl with a terrible childhood. She runs away from home and start a new life in the small town of Hollis where she finds work at a bar. Madden grew up in a real family where his future is set out in the family business. When his great love says yes to a marriage proposal from his brother leaves his family and find the small town of Hollis where he rents a room above a bar. Jade and Madden are quickly attracted to each other and Madden offers to help Jade make her ex jealous. But quickly develop the two real feelings for each other. Marking Madden is a great book. A sweet love story but a really good action. It's really well written and caught me from beginning to end. Can definitely recommended
December 9, 2016
I could not put the book down. I woke up during the night and started reading. I have never read anything of Nicole Dykes so she is another author I will continue to read. Her characters Madden and Jade stole my heart. They are down to earth and very much like you and I. Jade came from a dysfunctional family that forced her to live in the streets for a couple of years. Madden, he is a rich man that had enough of his father and family and ran off to find himself and figure out what to do with his life. The two paths cross one another. To find out what the rest of the book is about you will need to find out for yourself. She is a brilliant writer and I will pick up her books in the near future.
November 9, 2020
This story was fantastic!! The characters were well developed and the storyline was intriguing. Madden and Jade were meant to be together, but they only got together to make her ex jealous. Now they have strong feelings for each other but their bubble bursts and reality seeps in. Will everything come crashing down when the bubble pops?
November 9, 2020
I love the instant chemistry between Madden and Jade. The story grabs you and makes you want to not put it down. Jade and Madden come from different worlds but I think that just makes them appreciate each other more.
November 3, 2020
Oh my!!! This is a great book. I loved this story. When you love someone it's tough to see them with someone else.
June 15, 2017
Sweet story
So I must confess that I was hoping for more of a story with madden and Amelia but I'm happy that it was such a simple crush and they closed the doors on it. I also must say that Brady started out as kinda a jerk but redeems himself later on..Ok onto Madden and Jade. This started out as to get over lost loves and make em jealous. It turned out to be so much more. Madden was doing what he thought was right but it turns out he really found himself a home. I liked Madden and thought he was good for Jade. They really have a cute relationship. Madden doesn't care about her past and just wants to love her. He knows she's a remarkable girl with fire and passion..darn shame his family can't see that. Jade was a character I loved from the beginning. Yes she was hurt and after having a little fun, she really opens her heart to more. She was able to move on and make a home for herself with friends who love her regardless.
While this is book 1, you can read them out of order cause I did and I was fine understanding everything going on.
So I must confess that I was hoping for more of a story with madden and Amelia but I'm happy that it was such a simple crush and they closed the doors on it. I also must say that Brady started out as kinda a jerk but redeems himself later on..Ok onto Madden and Jade. This started out as to get over lost loves and make em jealous. It turned out to be so much more. Madden was doing what he thought was right but it turns out he really found himself a home. I liked Madden and thought he was good for Jade. They really have a cute relationship. Madden doesn't care about her past and just wants to love her. He knows she's a remarkable girl with fire and passion..darn shame his family can't see that. Jade was a character I loved from the beginning. Yes she was hurt and after having a little fun, she really opens her heart to more. She was able to move on and make a home for herself with friends who love her regardless.
While this is book 1, you can read them out of order cause I did and I was fine understanding everything going on.
July 8, 2017
Small town living takes a special breed, When Madden hides out in a small town he has no idea what is in store for him. These two have no idea what they are in for when they decide to make her ex jealous. I haven't read this author before but she has provided a good read with characters that hold your interest and make you smile. There is plenty of passion and a story that deals with life, short sightedness and the true love of family and that special someone.
November 7, 2020
Disillusioned with his life and the surprising turn it has taken, Madden pulls a disappearing act and hides away in the town of Hollis to escape a broken heart and a controlling father. There he meets Jade, who is nursing her own broken heart, and they come to a mutually beneficial arrangement which allows them to have a little fun together while also rubbing her ex’s nose in it, in an attempt to make him jealous. I really liked Jade, she’s down to earth and pragmatic. She had a hard life when she was younger but has managed to come through that relatively unscathed, has put the past behind her and is making a life and a home for herself in Hollis. Now Madden took a little more getting used to. He’s a good man at heart, none judgemental when it comes to Jade, but I didn’t like the fact that when the going got tough, his go to reaction was to run away from his problems. He needed to grow up a bit in my opinion.
Their chemistry was strong from the beginning and they have a great time hanging out and getting to know each other, both in and out of the bedroom, with no strings attached. Of course it’s all fun and games until they start to catch feelings and it was only a matter of time before reality and outside influences burst the bubble they were living in. I just hoped everything didn’t come crashing down when it did.
Marking Madden is a sweet, sometimes steamy, small town romance about love and friendship and finding happiness in unexpected places.
Their chemistry was strong from the beginning and they have a great time hanging out and getting to know each other, both in and out of the bedroom, with no strings attached. Of course it’s all fun and games until they start to catch feelings and it was only a matter of time before reality and outside influences burst the bubble they were living in. I just hoped everything didn’t come crashing down when it did.
Marking Madden is a sweet, sometimes steamy, small town romance about love and friendship and finding happiness in unexpected places.
June 14, 2017
JL Leslie is a go to author- her writing never fails to be anything other than amazing and entertaining.
Hollis, Texas- that's the place to be. I am so looking forward to this series and what will come next. Jade escapes her home to leave behind a good for nothing mother and an abusive stepfather and finds herself a family at the bar where she works. Madden Steele (the name in itself is sexy) escapes his family when he finds out what he thought was the love of his life is marrying his brother as well as not wanting to take a job at his father's company. Landing in a room for rent over Jade's workplace, Jade and Madden have an instant spark that both dismiss as impossible since they both think they are in love with someone else. Scheming to make Jade's ex jealous, as well as give Madden a hand back in Dallas, Jade and Madden attempt to have a "pretend" relationship. However, their chemistry overpowers everything that might be fake.
Very interesting story and greatly written lead in to an upcoming series that I can't wait to read!
Hollis, Texas- that's the place to be. I am so looking forward to this series and what will come next. Jade escapes her home to leave behind a good for nothing mother and an abusive stepfather and finds herself a family at the bar where she works. Madden Steele (the name in itself is sexy) escapes his family when he finds out what he thought was the love of his life is marrying his brother as well as not wanting to take a job at his father's company. Landing in a room for rent over Jade's workplace, Jade and Madden have an instant spark that both dismiss as impossible since they both think they are in love with someone else. Scheming to make Jade's ex jealous, as well as give Madden a hand back in Dallas, Jade and Madden attempt to have a "pretend" relationship. However, their chemistry overpowers everything that might be fake.
Very interesting story and greatly written lead in to an upcoming series that I can't wait to read!
December 11, 2016
Book: Marking Madden (Hearts of Hollis: Book One)
Author: J.L. Leslie, Nicole Dykes
Publication Date: 12/9/2016
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne-Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars
Review
Jade a young woman who had a shit life. She does what is needed though and lives her life on her terms. She has been hurt so much in her life and well the ex-boyfriend who was the last to hurt her is back in town.
Enter Madden. The rich guy who is running away from what he thought was love? A family who demands he does things their way? Well regardless these two souls become very much entwined.
I enjoyed this story it has a lot of depth although the first chapter or so was a bit slow when it picked up it was really good. There is no cliffhanger at least not that I can sense but you are left wondering whose story will be next.
Marking Madden
Author: J.L. Leslie, Nicole Dykes
Publication Date: 12/9/2016
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne-Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars
Review
Jade a young woman who had a shit life. She does what is needed though and lives her life on her terms. She has been hurt so much in her life and well the ex-boyfriend who was the last to hurt her is back in town.
Enter Madden. The rich guy who is running away from what he thought was love? A family who demands he does things their way? Well regardless these two souls become very much entwined.
I enjoyed this story it has a lot of depth although the first chapter or so was a bit slow when it picked up it was really good. There is no cliffhanger at least not that I can sense but you are left wondering whose story will be next.
Marking Madden
February 7, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. It was a somewhat quick read for me but that isn't a bad thing. I found the pace of the book to be perfect, there was a decent amount of backstory on both characters without dragging it out unnecessarily. The premise of the story was also good. It was a refreshing change to see that it was the male character moving to a new town to escape heartbreak. It gave him a vulnerability but at the same time he was still a strong male lead.
I found a few grammatical errors that affected the flow of reading for me just a little bit. And I was hoping for just a bit more toward the end of the story.
Having said that I would still recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a sweet romance book. I'm really looking forward to more books in this series.
I found a few grammatical errors that affected the flow of reading for me just a little bit. And I was hoping for just a bit more toward the end of the story.
Having said that I would still recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a sweet romance book. I'm really looking forward to more books in this series.
November 9, 2020
Marking Madden was a really good book. I enjoyed it very much. It is a nice love story between Madden and Jade. Madden wasn’t happy living in Dallas or working for his family’s company. He wanted something else and after finding out the girl who he thought he loved, married his brother, he left town.
Jade is a bartender at Jack’s. She met Madden and they got involved. But only to make Brady jealous they said. Well it turns out they were each having feelings for each other. But there was also people who didn’t want their relationship to go anywhere.
Both had decisions to make about their future and what they wanted. Could they make it together? I think so. I think this was a great love story, fast read, and lightens up your heart. ❤️
Jade is a bartender at Jack’s. She met Madden and they got involved. But only to make Brady jealous they said. Well it turns out they were each having feelings for each other. But there was also people who didn’t want their relationship to go anywhere.
Both had decisions to make about their future and what they wanted. Could they make it together? I think so. I think this was a great love story, fast read, and lightens up your heart. ❤️
February 23, 2017
Omg!! What a book this was to read. It was one that just left me speechless on what to say or how to review it when I finished. This was definitely a page turner and one that you just can't not pick it up to finish. I really didn't like Madden in the very being and thought he was extremely rude. It made me laugh when Jade told him he was rude shortly after I thought it myself. It didn't take long for me to love Madden and Jade though. They are just perfect and hard not to love. I'm not going to get into what this book is about because honestly it'll be hard to stop. You just need to read this for yourself. You won't be disappointed. I really loved this book and can't wait for the next one.
January 27, 2017
"Jealousy And Love Collide"
In this fast paced story, told by alternating characters, Jade Bowen returns to a small town, Hollis, leaving an unhappy life behind. She builds a relationship with Madden Steele after losing his loved woman to his brother. Some how, he does have the chance to find someone who helps him forget his past. This novel is for adults due to content, language, and sexual situations. It's an eye opener as to the often raging emotions and conflicts. This story is okay, but seems to be a little immature style of writing. Also, it can use a little more editing and proofing.
In this fast paced story, told by alternating characters, Jade Bowen returns to a small town, Hollis, leaving an unhappy life behind. She builds a relationship with Madden Steele after losing his loved woman to his brother. Some how, he does have the chance to find someone who helps him forget his past. This novel is for adults due to content, language, and sexual situations. It's an eye opener as to the often raging emotions and conflicts. This story is okay, but seems to be a little immature style of writing. Also, it can use a little more editing and proofing.
August 21, 2017
This is a quick lighthearted read. My OCD got the better of me and spotted all the proofing errors, nonetheless, ignoring those, the story is a lovely read. I loved the fact that the story is written in both madden and Jade's point of view. The authors have done a great job at sucking the reader into the story, making me connect and fall in love with all the characters. I want to know more....what will happen next? This is book one of the series, rest assured that there is no cliffhanger to worry about, just lots of sexiness, love, feisty woman, strong men, small town folk vs city slickers and some messed up family drama. What more do you need from a love story?
November 4, 2020
Marking Madden is an excellent read! If you take two unlikely people and mix a sadness, a little humor, a lot of sexy and shake it all up then you have the story of
Jade Bowen and Madden Steele. After a nasty situation Madden that turns Madden's world upside down, he makes a spur of the moment decision, he gets money together and leaves Dallas and ends up in Hollis. It's there he meets the sassy Jade and their journey is one you don't want to miss. They come from opposite sides of the tracks and are about as different as night and day but somehow they complete each other in a way no one else can. You absolutely don't want to miss out on Marking Madden.
Jade Bowen and Madden Steele. After a nasty situation Madden that turns Madden's world upside down, he makes a spur of the moment decision, he gets money together and leaves Dallas and ends up in Hollis. It's there he meets the sassy Jade and their journey is one you don't want to miss. They come from opposite sides of the tracks and are about as different as night and day but somehow they complete each other in a way no one else can. You absolutely don't want to miss out on Marking Madden.
November 4, 2020
Had to get away from the big city for a while and he came across a small town of Hollis. He rents the apartment above the bar and that's when he first meets the waitress Jade. All he wants to do is forget the Heartbreak that he left back in Dallas. Jade's trying to to get over her ex being back in town after breaking her heart. Madden comes up with the idea trying to make her ex jealous, Jade likes the idea. One thing leads to another and they actually get to know each other and they have more in common than they originally thought. Soon it turns into wanting to be together instead of just to make her ex jealous. You'll have to read Marking Madden to find out what happens!
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