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Irish Roulette #2

How Do You Survive With Us?

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The Guilty Professor
Dr. Vail Mifflin has been emotionally knocked out by his father’s murder. He can’t prove a thing, but hitmen from one of the mob families he dug up info about are the suspected culprits. They wanted Vail dead, not his father, who was caught in the crossfire. In a struggle with his grief and ADHD, which is worse with the additional stress, Vail isn’t himself. He leans heavily on Aspen, Fallon, Rowen, and Cillian to keep him safe while he tries to cope.

The Irish Mob to the Rescue
Cillian is enraged. He and the boys went to a lot of trouble to send a violent message to the Italians who had it out for Vail, and as a result, the Irish mob boss, Sloan Killough, told Vail he can go back to his job teaching. Cillian isn’t so sure the hit that was put out on Vail has been recalled. The big issue: Vail doesn’t want to lose his career.

The Killough Company Goes to War
The boys get word Vail’s life is still in danger. All the work they’ve done so far might be for nothing, and at this point, they want to keep Vail. To prove once and for all NYC belongs to the Killough Company, and what they say goes, the Irish mob teams up with Elio Folliero to make a stand. When Vail is kidnapped and his teaching assistant is shot, the boys are on edge. Can they keep Vail alive or was he doomed from the start?

How Do You Survive With Us? is danger-filled and exciting, but never fear, it also has a guaranteed happily ever after.

333 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 30, 2021

127 people are currently reading
270 people want to read

About the author

Ki Brightly

91 books717 followers
I spend most of my days writing, editing, and perfecting the craft of storytelling.

A note to readers: I don't hang out on Goodreads or social media, so if you have any questions about my books, please check out my website, which I host with M.D. Gregory.

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5 stars
383 (43%)
4 stars
327 (37%)
3 stars
140 (15%)
2 stars
26 (2%)
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4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
Profile Image for Saimi Vasquez.
1,960 reviews95 followers
July 28, 2022
Vail esta intentando superar la muerte de su padre, junto a sus novios Cillian, Rowen, Aspen y Fallon, quienes intentan mantenerlo ocupado y protegido en todo momento. Pero pareciera que su seguridad no es tan firme con lo afirma Mr. Killough, porque se encuentra de nuevo en la mira de asesinos de la mafia italiana de Chicago porque el director de la Universidad esta haciendo los tratos a sus espaldas. Asi que se ve secuestrado, golpeado, rescatado y de nuevo enfrentado a los mismos jefes de la mafia italiana, todo con el fin de poder al fin vivir tranquilo junto con sus cuatro hombres.
Y aunque la cosas con ellos no es tan facil como parecia al principio, siente que poco a poco su relacion va a ir evolucionando hasta que cada uno de ellos este conforme en su posicion a su lado y que solo requieren un poco de paciencia y comunicacion para que todo funcione.

Este libro comienza lleno de accion, pero despues es muchisimo mas lento. Con escenas eroticas cada vez mas calientes y peleas entre los protas que no llegan a ningun lado, este libro es mas un conclusion de la historia que se narro anteriormente y no tiene mayores variaciones.
En cuanto a los personajes, comenzamos a conocer a Aspen y Fallon y vemos poco a poco como cada uno de ellos se va abriendo a los otros, y como entre los cuatro realmente pueden llegar a tener una poderosa sociedad.
Ahora, nos queda el aspecto de los secundarios, Lore, tiene toda la intencion de convertirse en un peronaje de su propio libro, al igual de Osiris y Reed, pero tambien sabemos que Sloan y Cillian vienen de alguna serie o libro previo, al igual que los Kings, aunque no es necesario leer esos libros para entrar en esta serie, podria ser entretenido ver a estos personajes desde el punto de vista de los anteriores y antes de encontrarse con Vail.
Ahora voy a terminar la serie, y ver como van a resolver el tema de Aspen-Rowen-Fallon y como va afectar eso en la relacion entre los cuatro.
Profile Image for ♡ cal ♡.
764 reviews348 followers
January 15, 2022
loved this! i appreciate how this story gave the spotlight more to fallon and aspen and their relationship to vail.
Profile Image for yaishin.
904 reviews118 followers
January 25, 2022
Hmm well Fallon got ignored a lot. Which i couldn't understand. What would have done the book a lot of help would probably be a scene where the others clearly and unmistakably had his back against a third party.

And the last few chapters veered a little into poly territory so not my favorite. Didn't connect with Aspen as much as I'd hoped.

I liked this one well enough but it had nothing on the first book. I repeat, nothing on the first book.
Profile Image for Santy.
1,260 reviews77 followers
May 8, 2022
Vail is finally getting it

In this, Vail is finally realising exactly what he's getting himself into with the book.

Like the other books, this had extremely high heat and Even though this series has more sexy times than I'd like, it still manages to do its job.
Profile Image for M.I.A.
412 reviews91 followers
January 31, 2022
2.75 Stars
Unfortunately, Book 2 didn't hold my attention as much as Book 1. Dr. Vail is as lovable as ever, his Harem is growing, and the sex is still scorching.
My main issue is the delivery of the external conflict, the organized crime aspect. I hoped to be more interested, but even in dire circumstances for the MC, I couldn't connect, relate or feel any heightened emotion.
Irish Roulette is one of those series where all the foundation and bones are present, the potential to be excellent is there, but something is not connecting. And I don't know what, only that I couldn't sink into the story or invest in all the main characters. Alas, it may be just my book slump contaminating my enjoyment.
I will add that I love the book cover design; whoever did the work is talented, and it's incredibly eye-catching.
Profile Image for Ki Brightly.
Author 91 books717 followers
Read
March 2, 2022
Hi! This is a quick update to let you know that Book 3, How Did You Survive Alone? is going into the editing stages!

M.D. and I are working around the clock to get the book ready.











A big thanks goes out to our vast team that works on our books.
Line Editing by Susan Reeves.
Sensitivity Reading and Early Reading by Trezlen Drake.
Early Reading by Jennifer Griffin, LoLo, and Julie Hanson.
Irish Accuracy and Early Reading by Jo McCorkell.
Early Reading, Developmental, and Line Editing by Anita Ford.
Copy Editing, Proofing, and Editing Coordination by Kiyle Brosius.
E-book Formatting by Meg Bawden.
Cover Design by MiblArt.

Thanks!

Ki
Profile Image for Natalie  H.
3,801 reviews30 followers
March 23, 2022
The sex fest continues. Was happy Fallon and Aspen had their share in this one. I started losing interest in Vail and found myself liking Fallon bottoming more and Sloan/Conall. Vail’s situation felt a bit anti-climactic, although I did like him standing up for himself. Curious about Lor.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Suzanne Irving.
2,730 reviews24 followers
January 9, 2022
Absolutely lovely mm harem romance

I have loved every book in this world of New Gothenburg (and area). This set of two are no exception to this. Dr. Vail and his men are steamy and so much fun to read about. Everything from the covers to the characters, the plot, the twists and turns, and the heat are totally on point and if I had another special extra star I would give it to these two books. If you like mm romance stories then I recommend these books to you and if you haven’t read anything else in the New Gothenburg world what the heck are ya doin get them and join in all of the deliciousness.
Profile Image for Pat.
1,587 reviews18 followers
November 7, 2022
More than a wonderful series, I can’t get enough of these guys , they show their hearts to each other.
I wondered how the sharing would be but seeing they can one to one —-I understand..
The audiobook is fabulous!
Onto the last book now …!!!
Profile Image for Oley.
136 reviews1 follower
March 18, 2023
Great continuing story

Great second book! This series is reading just amazingly! I enjoy reading HEAs and this one was very sweet! I hope the rest of the books will read the same way😊
Profile Image for Amos24601.
1,287 reviews44 followers
January 1, 2022
Absolutely loved this

The second book in the Irish Roulette series did not disappoint. This part focuses on Vail, Fallon and Aspen’s relationship. I’m so glad we got to see how thing truly develop between them.

Fallon is this sweet puppy dog of a man and Aspen is silent and mysterious. I can certainly see how they captivate Vail. Vail is as adorable as ever. He is struggling after the death of his father and his men rally around him in the best possible way. Cillian and Rowan also feature prominently in this book, so have no worries that we lack interaction with them.

There are so many wonderful cameos from people throughout the New Gothenburg universe and it’s delightful. The Boss and his Pet are of particular mention.

This whole book was a knockout for me. I’m so glad we are going to get more books with them, as they are so fascinating. A well deserved 5 stars from me.
Profile Image for Danielle Hendrikse.
313 reviews2 followers
March 11, 2024
"How Did You Survive Without Us?", delves deeper into the dangerous entanglement of Dr. Vail Mifflin with the Irish mob, against a backdrop of personal tragedy and escalating mob tensions. This novel picks up with the emotional turmoil of Vail's life following the murder of his father, a casualty in a failed hit intended for Vail himself. The blend of personal loss, professional peril, and the shadow of mob vengeance makes for a compelling narrative that explores the depths of grief, loyalty, and the quest for justice.

Dr. Vail Mifflin's character development takes a significant turn in this installment. His struggle with ADHD under the weight of grief is portrayed with sensitivity and realism, providing insight into the challenges of coping with personal loss while under threat. Vail's reliance on the Irish mob for protection highlights the complexity of his situation, where his safety is intertwined with the violent world he has accidentally become a part of.

The Irish mob, represented by Cillian, Aspen, Fallon, and Rowen, transforms from protectors to avengers in this narrative. Their rage over the attack on Vail and the unintended consequence of his father's death propels the story into darker territory, where lines between right and wrong blur. The mob's decision to go to war not only to secure Vail's safety but also to assert their dominance in New York City adds a layer of intensity to the plot.

The dynamic between Vail and the mob deepens, moving beyond mere protection to a sense of chosen family. This emotional bond, forged in the fires of shared danger and loss, enriches the narrative, offering moments of human connection amidst the violence. The character of Cillian, in particular, stands out for his leadership and the personal stakes he feels in keeping Vail safe, showcasing the personal growth and depth of commitment among the characters.

The action-packed storyline, with its twists of kidnapping and a stand against the Italian mob, keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. The strategic moves and counter-moves between the mob factions are well-crafted, demonstrating the author's grasp of mob politics and the complexities of power struggles. The tension builds to a climax that is both thrilling and emotionally charged, leading to a resolution that satisfies the craving for justice while acknowledging the cost of such a battle.

"How Did You Survive Without Us?" successfully balances the elements of a mob thriller with the emotional journey of its characters. The guarantee of a happily ever after, despite the danger and darkness that pervades the story, provides a sense of closure and hope. This novel not only delivers on the action and suspense expected from a mob drama but also explores deeper themes of family, loyalty, and the possibility of redemption.

In conclusion, "How Did You Survive Without Us?" is a gripping sequel that elevates the narrative established in the first book. It offers readers a satisfying continuation of Vail's journey, filled with danger, emotional complexity, and ultimately, a promise of peace. The blend of action, character development, and emotional depth makes this a must-read for fans of the series and newcomers alike who are looking for a story that combines the thrill of a mob drama with the heart of a deeply human story.
Profile Image for CharlotteAtena.
447 reviews13 followers
June 28, 2025
This series gets better, I swear. Book one was amazing, I loved everything about it, but this one? Somehow, it got, as I said, better.

I loved to see the relationships between the guys evolve, transform, and fall into place. Vail was the missing piece in their little group, and what he brought into their lives was unique. The group itself transformed under his loving touch.

The relationship transformed, as I said, but the biggest surprise was to see how the guys changed when it came to Vail. He is their world. They would do anything for him. No one touches their love and live to tell the story.

What happened to V in books one and two was tbh traumatizing. It changed his life, but it also it changed something inside of his soul. I am so happy the guys were there to hold him and keep him safe and sane.

I think Cillian is the one that changed the most, and it just shows how much he needed someone to love him. Rowen got jealous, and it was nice to see how they navigated that without judging him. Aspen let himself come out of his shell more in this book, and Fallon... our baby golden retriever of a man surprised me with the way he let Veil love him in this book. The development between Aspen-Veil-Fallon was interesting to see, and I'm curious how this will go on. Books one and two were more focused on Veil, but from now on, the focus seems to be on the other pairs that are forming, and I'm a little nervous. I hope I'll love them just as much.

Another thing that I loved was the friendship that bloomed between Conall and Veil and how Sloan felt the need to protect Veil as well. The development on this front was unexpected but highly appreciated.

If I wes mega excited after finishing book one to dive into book two, now I'm a bit nervous, as I said, since the focus is not gonna be on Veil anymore, but on Fallon and Aspen, at least for the next book. I hope I'll love it as much as these two and not feel like something gets destroyed. Fingers crossed, because I love these five so much, and I really want to continue reading about them.
Profile Image for Kaķis.
279 reviews
September 2, 2024
This book is the continuation from book 1 & the plot picks up from it so the series must be read in an order.
Vail is dealing a lot emotionally after the death of his father and navigating his relationship and career at the same time.

This book focuses on Vail’s starting relationship with Fallon & Aspen while also continuing his relationship with Rowen & Cillian. Each men in his little harem 😉 brings a different side. All of the men are very open on their affections and want to have a relationship with Vail.
Fallon is a resident flirt, also the youngest of the group. He is also open to being a bottom for Vail which gives Vail his first experience in topping. While Aspen is more of an observer of the group. He doesn’t speak much at least at the start but slowly starts opening up.

I really loved the relationship development in this book. Even though there’s five men involved with their individual relationships, it didn’t feel messy to me. They’re trying their best to communicate and have their moments with Vail. This book also starts something between Fallon & Aspen. On Vail’s suggestion, they have a sexual interaction which opened up a new possibility. I really loved this part because I’m falling in love with Fallon and he like Vail needs to be protected 🥰

The ending of the book with a little vacation in Aspen’s aunt’s bed&breakfast is my favourite part of the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Helen.
1,004 reviews4 followers
March 20, 2022
Irish mobsters and a neurodivergent professor

The follow-on from book 1, and I couldn't wait to continue that story. This is a copy of the first review as the characters remain, and the story is good.

Dr. Vail Mifflin what a well-written character, and I loved how life was not just happy. He has issues and had to deal with a lot. But there is also humour and maybe a touch of sex... OK, a lot.

Irish mafia, the characters and accents were well rounded and seriously good.

Overall, it is a great story that was only made better by being in audible.

A new to me narrator Mac Rae has excellent accents and is a pleasure to listen to, clean and concise. I speed this narration up to 1.25 on Audible, which is usual for me.

How Do You Survive with Us?
Irish Roulette, Book 2
By: Ki Brightly, M.D. Gregory
Narrated by: Mac Rae
Length: 10 hrs and 45 mins

❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.25 speed on Audible

I received this audiobook for free from GRR at my request. My review is my opinion and an honest review - neither the author nor GRR influenced my opinion.
Profile Image for Reed.
1,205 reviews21 followers
March 19, 2022
I’m reviewing the audio edition. These books need to be read/listened to in order so the characters and situations make sense. I feel this next book has a lot more triggers. If you enjoy a lot going on this is the one. The panic room escape is funny. The group fantasy is unbelievable. And in particular some of the violent parts had me cringing. This brings Fallon and Aspen more into the spotlight. Vail is struggling with guilt that many of the events are his fault. He is still oblivious as is his personality but he seems to be more involved in choices. His excitement meeting the different high-level mobsters is entertaining. I feel Rowan remains the closest to Vail but Vail gets plenty close to the rest also. I wish there had been a little more about Fallon. There is more from the Boss and his Pet which includes a little more of their viewing. The narration and ability to change accents by Mac Rae made these characters and events more real. I understand there will be additional parts to this series and I’m anxious for them.
Profile Image for Tj.
2,225 reviews68 followers
April 26, 2022
I am still enjoying the series. I am beginning to have some issues with the sex,,,yeah I know this is a poly/harem book so OF COURSE there is a lot of sex! It just began to overwhelm the story. Any and everything started to turn Vail on. It got to be a bit much. I am glad we see more of Aspen and Fallon. I still felt like I didn't get to know Aspen all that well. It fits they dynamic and character but I just don't see him as much as the others. In the end I still felt like Vail's main relationship is with Cillian and Rowan. Aspen and Fallon have their own relationship together and then also one with Vail. I just still see lots of cracks. It doesn't feel as much like they are a group, there are all these separate segments. Anyway, I liked that Vail gets to experience more of what being with these four will mean in his life. The author with the epilogues also gave us a little more closure on Vail's future. Is everything perfect, no but nothing ever is. I look forward to the next book.
Profile Image for Natalie.
334 reviews3 followers
December 31, 2021
Another 5 star hit from this writing duo. You need to read the first book before this for maximum enjoyment.
This is a mafia romance. The heat level is high. There’s also a fair amount of violence. The vast majority of it to bad people, so it’s palatable.
The story is set within a world these two authors have created and as such there are some cameo appearances from other characters. This is a part of the story that I love as you get invested in their characters and want to see them all again even if it’s just a brief glimpse.
I like the story telling and how the relationships between the 5 men develop and how there’s so much more for them to learn.
I love the way the bad guys have this vulnerable weak spot and the way we should dislike them but actually just want to be included in the Harem.
Highly recommend.
Profile Image for K-Me.
2,843 reviews
March 24, 2022
This audible is the perfect addition to the first one! Here we get all Five guys POV and it is heartwarming getting to know all of them and what makes them who they are. Seeing that deep down Rowan is a bit jealous, Fallon is a bit insecure, Killian is a softie underneath for Vail only, and I love that Aspen is still a little bit of a mystery! The way this story is written you feel like you are there falling in love right along with these guys! It is all perfect and just naturally right! Mac Rae Nailed this narration! I cannot get enough of his Irish Rowan and when Sloan makes an appearance, spot on fantastic! This series has it all! Non apologetic violence, protectiveness, possessiveness, hot sexy times (including a poolside exhibition), sweetness and so much character growth. I am completely invested in these guys!! Enjoy!
Profile Image for Sherry.
171 reviews
January 26, 2022
How Do You Survive With Us? and How Did You Survive Without Us? Irish Roulette Series by Ki Brightly (KU)
These two books seem to make a complete story together—I would definitely read them sequentially if possible. This is a fun, hot harem story in which an absentminded professor with an active libido, adhd and a specialty in US mob history gets a little too close to present day mob secrets and is targeted for elimination. Lucky for him, 4 stalwart mob assassins who specialize in torture decide to claim and protect him. In addition to the hot scenes, this book has great characterization and surprisingly plausible interactions between the characters. I was especially taken with the author’s portrayal of the characteristics of ADHD and how it affects the MC.
Profile Image for Guardian.angel54 .
978 reviews39 followers
January 15, 2022
Four Irish mobsters and their Vail

This is the second book in this series and it picks up directly where the first one left off. I really loved the how the chapters focused on individual points of view of the characters. It gives you a really good feel for the separate players and expands your perception of events. I absolutely fell a little on love with these men and would love to read more about them in the future. This is a series that completely engages you and pulls you in from start to finish. I loved the tidbits of Irish culture that are sprinkled throughout and I would definitely recommend these books! Truly outstanding series!
2,587 reviews45 followers
March 16, 2022
I liked that each man brings something special and unique to Vail's life and become as necessary as oxygen to each's survival. Seeing the bad boys vulnerable because of love resonated deeply with me. I found it amusing that "NOTHING " keeps a good man down- nit a broken arm or near death experience- ie: Fallon and Vail !!!!!! Those epilogues- ooh la la!!!!!! The dynamics of each relationship is captivating, and I'm completely invested in this group and their journey. Looking forward to more. I voluntarily listened to the audio version of this and am giving an honest review. The narrator did an excellent job bringing the characters and story to life with his different voices and accents.
Profile Image for Addicted2M/M.
982 reviews245 followers
May 22, 2022
More please!

This was as well done as book one. I loved seeing the relationship between the men grow. Vail is OTT naive, but I just went with it. I love how proud he is of his vast array of knowledge. It is endearing. His guys were protective, possessive, violent (not with Vail--it is the mob, after all) and Vail brings out their inner sweetness,

Mac did an excellent job once again and the sex scenes were sizzling. The scene at Sloane's penthouse was absolutely scorching.

Now, if I could just figure out what is up with Lorcan...

I received a free copy of this audiobook from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Becky A.
2,023 reviews
December 3, 2022
"How Do You Survive With Us" received FOUR stars.

The novel gained *stars* for these items:

* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."

* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."

* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."

* gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"

The novel failed to gain stars for this item:

NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything she/he/they writes."

Profile Image for J.L..
Author 14 books72 followers
January 24, 2022
As enjoyable a read as the first book, but there were three different avenues I wish the authors had spent a bit more time on: the external plot, exploring the dynamic between the sexy mobsters "sharing" their partner, and the developing dynamics between the mobsters themselves. Overall, still a fun, sexy book that was just different enough.

Not everything by this author duo has captured my attention, but I'm intrigued enough to go back to read the other books specifically in the Killough Co. series.
Profile Image for Brei-ayn.
601 reviews6 followers
March 22, 2022
I loved this book. After the murder of his father Vail is emotionally lost. He feels its his fault because of the research he was doing for his book. One of the mob families wants him dead. His only support system is the men he cares for Rowen, Cillian, Aspen, and Fallon. After the boys send a message Sloan Killough the boss believes its safe for Vail to go back to doing what he loves. Cillian doesn't believe its over. When they find out Vail isn't safe they do everything they can to protect him but will it be enough?
1,550 reviews11 followers
March 27, 2022
Great series, wonderful narration!
The second book is as hot as the first, and real feelings start to kick in, too! All of our four favourite Irish mobsters are settling in, with a bit of adjustment, with their Professor… between the struggles to keep an hostile Italian family at bay (and thus keeping Vail safe) and the tuning needed perfect their extraordinary relationship, the book is a whirlwind of emotions!

Again, the narration is wonderful with a swoony Irish accent and this duology was absolutely perfect!

918 reviews6 followers
April 9, 2022
I loved spending time with Vail and his four lovers and I especially enjoyed how close Fallon and Aspen got and how the others did not treat him as badly after seeing how horrible his older brother treated him and the other brother did not support him at all and after he was so badly hurt in the truly horrifying fight. I enjoyed Vail and Conall's friendship and the scene in the pool was insanely hot.
I loved how Vail spent time with each person and I really enjoyed the epilogues. Hope there will be another book.
Profile Image for Aimee .
1,177 reviews12 followers
January 1, 2022
I love Aspen!

I loved how absolutely sweet yet strong and resilient Vail is. I love how his brain works and the affect he has on everyone including Sloan. I adored how “soft” Sloan got for someone other than Conall and I would give anything to see more of Conall and Vail’s friendship blossom! All 4 of Vail’s men are special and Aspen and Fallon are adorable together. This was a great continuation and I won’t be disappointed if there are more books with these 5 men.
Profile Image for Shelby.
14 reviews17 followers
January 2, 2022
This book was AMAZING! I absolutely loved the first book and this one didn't lack at all 🖤 I loved seeing the characters grow together as a family. Vail is an undercover badass and I don't care what anyone says lol. Also, can we talk about the turn of events with Aspen and Fallon!!!!! Like hello, hotttt 🔥🔥 I'm not going to lie I wish that I didn't read so fast or that there was a lot more to come from the guys because I'm so not ready for it to be over !!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews

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