Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Blackjack

As Vice President of the Manchester chapter of the Untamed Sons, I have one job—to stand at my president’s side. That’s what I’ve done since we came here to expand our territory. I’m always on the lookout for trouble, but I never expected to find her in a casino in my home patch. She looked sweet, innocent, then she took me for everything I had. I’m a gambling man but that night I played my cards wrong and lost. I never expected to see her again, but when she turns up at the clubhouse telling me her life is in danger I have to put our past behind to save her.

Elyse

Robbing a member of an MC isn’t my smartest plan, but I’m desperate. The man I owe money to is escalating. He’s forcing me to do things I would never have thought possible before this happened to keep me and my brother safe. Now I’m staring at a positive pregnancy test, wondering if the only person who can fix all of this is the man whose baby I’m carrying—the man I robbed.


*Warning : Contains graphic violence and dark emotional scenes that may trigger some readers. To find out more visit the link in the author biography.

262 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 24, 2022

316 people are currently reading
256 people want to read

About the author

Jessica Ames

70 books1,296 followers
Writer, prolific reader and crochet addict

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
697 (59%)
4 stars
338 (28%)
3 stars
117 (9%)
2 stars
21 (1%)
1 star
4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
Profile Image for Samantha (bookgramsaga reviews).
918 reviews1,211 followers
July 17, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

''It's too late to go back now''

Safety warnings:
- H 32 / h 22
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Violence/d*ath
- Torture
- Attempted r*pe
- S*xual assault
- Blackmail
- Unexpected pregnancy
- HEA

SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

After the way book 1 ended and we got a massive surprise for Blackjack I was really intrigued to see what had happened and how it would all play out.

We first meet Blackjack aka Matt at the casino, and he is playing poker with a group of people before a beautiful redhead sits down and attempts to play too but she is clueless, and Matt takes a liking to her instantly. They end up going to a hotel room and have a passionate night of sex but when she wakes up right before 6am she is on a different kind of mission. Take his winnings and cash it in to pay off the debtor who needs 20k from her or else.

Elyse is desperate and the second she moves towards the door Matt is up and in shock over her attitude and is basically threatening her. He lets her go but is distraught over the fact she played him.

We find out more about Elyse and why she is indebted. Her father owes 250k to the loan shark Howard and he wants his money but since the dad is missing, he is putting it on her and her little brother Aaron who is 12. She can't pay him anymore and he forces her to give him bjs in exchange.

Elyse finds out she is pregnant and it's Matt's. She goes to tell him the truth and seek his help, but he refuses her and kicks her out as he does not believe her lies and does not trust a word she says. I don't blame him for his initial thoughts of her as she lied and deceived him, but he was little too harsh too. When she gets home, she finds Howard has shown up and he now demands that she sleeps with him and in the process of attempting to rape her, Aaron hits Howard and they run off back to the MC in hopes for another chance.

Elyse shows up bloodied and obviously hurt and this causes Matt to go feral and protective. He sets out to find out what happened and who did this.

This is the moment is all changes between them! Matt is much more attentive to her, and he does prove his feelings to her over time. All he wants is to take care of her and Aaron, to have their child and be a family. He really did a 180 from what we originally witnessed.

Matt really does everything he can to show her love and give her everything she has lacked. He protects her and cares. He is absolutely accepting of Aaron and does give him a better life. I really enjoyed watching this scary 6ft6 man fall hopelessly in love with the girl who outsmarted him and caused him so much angst in the beginning.

It all comes to a surprise reveal when it's shown that her father and ''Howard'' aka Jimmy were just playing a con on people to pay them money and he assumed he was getting 500 a week from her since she had a decent office job, but Howard was just abusing her and taking more money than planned. Her father is a real piece of work for doing this and honestly, it's heartbreaking that he did. Despite saving her from Howard, I am glad he won’t be a part of their life anymore!
Matt makes sure that Howard suffers for everything he made Elyse do and all the pain he caused! I know these types of men are massive red flags in the real world but I love it when they go psychotic towards the people who hurt their girl.

We end the book with their son Max being (odd choice of name since Max was Pia's ex-husband’s name but okay).

We also get a quick look into the next book! Terror sees his STEPSISTER stripping at a club and that's where it ends!

Profile Image for Angie.
1,410 reviews234 followers
June 24, 2022
She tastes like fucking sunshine. The light to my dark. The heat to my cold. The love of my life. I'll do anything for her. Anything.

4.5 stars!

Trigger warnings: rape, sexual assault, MC violence and gore, strong language

Even though it's a rough start between Blackjack and Elyse, he truly makes good on his promise to do anything in order to protect her. If you're a fan of Jessica Ames, then you know that she isn't afraid to write some truly dark and twisted scenes that are sure to make you squirm in discomfort, and this novel was no exception.

Elyse is living her worst nightmare, trying to care for her brother while being harassed by a loan shark who holds her accountable for her father's debt. After swindling Blackjack out of ten grand, she has no choice but to turn to him for the protection of the Untamed Sons MC after the shark's threat escalate. Blackjack doesn't forgive easily, but he's unable to deny the attraction and possessiveness brewing between them. Even though Elyse has been through some unspeakable moments, I loved her strength and tenacity. She was a great match for Blackjack's hidden softness, and I absolutely loved their dynamic. I'm so stoked for Terror's book next as you just know it's going to be twisted ♡

Tropes: heroine in danger, one-night stand, motorcycle club, unplanned pregnancy, band of brothers, alpha protector hero

*ARC provided by GMB promo, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
Profile Image for Valentina.
1,182 reviews414 followers
June 8, 2022
3.5 stars

Matt “Blackjack” meets the woman of his dreams in Elyse until her deception. But there is more to Elyse’s story than Blackjack is aware when she makes a sudden appearance at his motorcycle club asking her help, not just to protect her younger brother, but also to protect a secret they conceived.

This story is a definite grabber in the beginning. Fast / medium burn featuring an initial angry, untenable but quasi understanding Blackjack, due to Elyse’s treachery — she had good reason. Elyse is sweet and kind, a very likable heroine. In fact, they both are and such an endearing couple together. Matt becomes a growly, Teddy bear whose protective behavior and MC diction are very similar to the hero in book one. I enjoyed the fair amount of spice (3/5) in face of their unquestionable attraction. Dual points of view, and mostly told from Blackjack’s perspective, the story is very striking from its first chapters but then mellows into a warm, loving romance with climatic action and great side character contributions.

Good read, though fairly predictable. I do love a baby romance.
Profile Image for Intel Chicky Reads Romance (Kara Merideth).
2,276 reviews1,532 followers
June 24, 2022
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5)
Trope: protector
Angst: 😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥

Absolutely loved Blackjack. Tons of action right from the start and characters you can't help but fall in love with. Blackjack is a super growly protector at heart and Elyse is a super sweet girl that's been put in an untenable position. Super fast paced and well written, I felt like this one had a bit more meat than the first book in the series. Can't wait to see what's next!

Sensitive readers should look at the trigger warnings. Blackjack is the second book in the Manchester Chapter of Untamed Sons MC by Jessica Ames, but can be read as a standalone. It is told in first person, from dual perspective, primarily BlackJacks.

⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes contain spoilers
Profile Image for julia❦.
313 reviews43 followers
April 3, 2023
2.5☆
ahh idk this was okay. i just felt it wasn’t very romantic like every time matt said something remotely loving he made it sexual immediately. it just felt very lusty idk. i rly liked elyse🩷but matt was kind of a major ahole, especially at the beginning when she told him she was 🤰. aaron was so sweet and i liked howler and pia but yeah i didn’t really enjoy this book as much as i’d hoped to.



‘I smirk. The banter feels good, natural. It feels like I’ve known her for years, not minutes. The chemistry between us crackles. I’ve never had this with any woman before. The connection is soul deep.’



‘“I promise you I ain’t letting anything touch you or our kid.”’



‘He snaps his eyes to me. “You’re in my bed. With me. And you ain’t doing extra shifts. You want something, I’ll get it for you.”
I want to argue with him, but he steps up to me, cupping my jaw with his hands. “You’re mine. I take care of you.”’



‘I wait as Elyse starts to wake. She’s fucking beautiful in the morning—all ruffled and sleepy, like a little door mouse buried in the covers. Her eyes open and blink, before she focuses on me.
She smiles.
“Are you watching me sleep again?”
I’ve done this every day in the two weeks her and Aaron have been living with me. I can’t help it, even if it makes me a creeper.
“You want me to stop?”
She shakes her head. “No.”
“Good. I wasn’t going to anyway.”’



‘She ducks her head. “You’re really thinking ahead.”
I lift her chin, forcing her eyes up. “Babe, you are my future.” I kiss her. “Go and get showered. I’ll order breakfast in.”’



‘She’s fucking stunning, laid out like this. Her red hair looks brighter in the morning light, like an angel. My angel.’



‘He reaches out and plays with a strand of my hair. “Yeah, I am. I feel so fucking protective over you, Elyse. I would kill anyone who tried to hurt you. Never felt that way about anyone. Never understood I could feel like that until now. I see a future with us, our baby, and your brother. A family.”’



‘I dip my head, slanting my mouth, and capture her lips. She tastes like fucking sunshine. The light to my dark. The heat to my cold. The love of my life. I’ll do anything for her.’



‘Aaron shifts his shoulders. “He says we need to take care of you, and I agree. No one ever takes care of you, so me and him have to.” His eyes raise and meet mine. “You deserve to be looked after too.”’🥺🩷
484 reviews
June 4, 2022
Jessica Ames just proved why she’s one of my most favorite authors! This book is amazing! Thrilling and sexy, with just a touch of humor, it’s just a great book! Blackjack has definitely become one of my favorite alpha male leads. He’s growly and super sweet all at the same time. Elyse is equally strong and loyal, doing everything she can think of to protect her brother. These two don’t have a traditional first meeting but the results made for a fantastic story. Can’t wait for the next story in this wonderful series!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sundy Tr..
254 reviews11 followers
March 18, 2025
Second book of the series is about Blackjack and Elyse. I liked this one more than the previous. It was a bit longer and better written in my opinion.
The beginning was interesting and intriguing.
After a while things were rushed once again though.
There was some light agony but the resolution came way too fast and it just felt meh.

It had potential but there was no real character development and it was too instalove for my liking.

-Dual 1st person POV
-Spice: 🌶️🌶️

Overall: 3.25/5 ⭐️
Profile Image for KAGE.
121 reviews41 followers
June 21, 2022
description

"I realise in this moment that even if she wants to walk away, I'm not going to let her."

Overall Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.5/5

Spice Rating: 7/10
Characters: 9.5/10
Atmosphere: 8.5/10
Writing: 9/10
Plot: 9/10
Intrigue: 9/10
Logic: 8/10
Enjoyment: 9/10

Hero: Matt (Blackjack)
Heroine: Elyse

Cliff-hanger: No
Triggers: Violence, Sexual Assault, Torture

Pages: 262
Style: Contemporary, Quick Read, Second Chance, Enemies to Lovers, Dark, Suspense, MC, Accidental Pregnancy

Jessica is another new to me author and let's just say I'll definitely be back for more!! This is part of the Manchester Chapter Untamed Sons MC series, however, can be read as a standalone, and I had no issues whatsoever following along having not read any others.

This story was just so beautiful to read, especially following the growth and strength shown by Elyse. She is such a loveable character and I was completely enthralled in her story right from the start. The pain and desperation she felt was palpable and completely heart breaking but proved her resilience and strength. Matt was the absolute perfect protector for her with a badass, possessive, and tough exterior and the sweetest, most thoughtful insides (can I just say how he was with Aaron melted my heart, he really is a big softy). It was so special watching the two of them face the many twists and turns that were thrown their way.

Overall the story was beautifully written, all the characters were so loveable and endearing, and without spoiling anything there was plenty of action and drama along the way.

If you are after a jealous possessive alpha-hole, fast paced romance, age gap, and MC club drama then look no further! This is a fantastic read from Jessica, and I can't wait for more from this world!

"She tastes like fucking sunshine. The light to my dark. The heat to my cold. The love of my life. I'll do anything for her. Anything."

*all edits are mine - pictures are not

Instagram | Pinterest | TikTok | Blog | Goodreads

description
Profile Image for Doris.
3,658 reviews139 followers
June 24, 2022
Absolutely Loved It!!

Blackjack is the VP of the Untamed Sons MC Manchester Chapter and he received his road name for a reason. One night at the casino and beautiful red head walks in and he instantly notices her and has to have her. Little did he know is that he was about to be rolled. She almost made it to the door and she tries to explain how dire that money is to her situation.

The story on Elyse and Aaron will break your heart for everything they’ve had to endure in their lives. The desperate things a person will do to protect the ones they love will have you wondering if you would have that strength as Elyse did. The story of Blackjack and Elyse pulled me in from the get go and didn’t let up throughout the entire book. The changes that were made had me hoping that possibly there would be an HEA. Blackjack was every bit the intimidating alpha that had me swooning at times and yes, other times I wanted to let him have it!!

This book is why I’ve fallen in love with this author and the MC world she brings us. You have to be able to handle the darker side with the grittiness she brings to a story and the steam is off the charts. What a great MC read that I recommend. Now I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
June 24, 2022
Blackjack & Elyse meet one night at gambling joint & they have serious chemistry so they end up in his room to spend a super HOT night together. Elyse has something serious going on in her life & is responsible for her younger brother so she's caught taking his money. He's none too pleased about that & after threatening her, he lets her leave with the money anyway but he better not ever see her again. See, Elyse's father has a gambling addiction so after he ghosts his family, she's being held responsible for his debt. You would think that Elyse has enough going on in her life but when she learns she has a party favor from that night, she has no other choice but to go back to Blackjack for help. As you can imagine, this doesn't go over well either but things really take a turn for her & Blackjack has to help at this point. This story was so good but please check the TWs because there are dark things that will be triggering for people because even I had to pause at some things to take a breath & I don't have triggers. I LOVED this story, especially with the heat & the twists coming in hot but just when I thought I had all the info, BAM! A twist out of left field threw me for a loop. I cannot wait for the next story as I LOVE this author's writing & HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Profile Image for Angels.
2,069 reviews17 followers
June 24, 2022
Loved Blackjack and Elyse story, it was filled with a ton of emotion and suspense and a lot of love. The characters were great and Blackjack was a favorite once he got over his anger he was loving and caring and protective to both Elyse and her brother I loved that not just one were important to him but, both.

Blackjack and Elyse's chemistry was beautiful, they sparked and lit up a room. They made a beautiful couple. Elyse was so kind and loving and so strong and even when life kept dealing her blow after blow she remained strong and determined.

Overall we really enjoyed the story, the men in this story are kicka** they are so protective of their women they treat them like the blessings they are. There was so much drama and betrayals, heartache and pain, unexpected blessings. The men of this MC are a force to be reckoned with, and if you hurt their woman or brothers, be prepared for the pain you will endure.
9,376 reviews140 followers
June 22, 2022
Book two in the series brings Blackjack and Elyse's story. The author brings an exciting story filled with humor and steam as well as suspense and violence. There are some trigger warnings. It's well written with detailed and descriptive scenes, moves fluidly and is a terrific read. Loved and recommend this book.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
Profile Image for Renae.
1,179 reviews
June 20, 2022
Jessica Ames sure tells a good story!!! 😍
Profile Image for Peggy.
2,281 reviews2 followers
June 25, 2022
A new author and this story, Blackjack is the 2nd book of the Manchester U tamed Sons chapter. This story revolves around Elyse and Aaron. They or story is heartbreaking and pulls at all your emotional strings. They have endured much more then most. You can’t help but root for them. I absolutely recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Debra  (Dragon Nanny) Phiri.
1,623 reviews21 followers
June 25, 2022
Awesome story! Blackjack and Elyse are amazing together! Reading their story just makes you teary eyed and violent!

One night and the world changes! I love the pace of the story, the moments of passion and the moments of feeling that are so clear and real.

I love how strong and filled with heart Blackjack is and the other brothers too!

Brilliant!
Profile Image for Lynne Garlick.
2,488 reviews27 followers
August 21, 2023
I am here for this!!!!! Dear lord!! I have been waiting for this since that scene in Howler's book! Plus this is my home town, I am down for all of this!!
I have loved Blackjack from our first meeting (yeah, I am going with that!). I knew there was so much more to the story and damn, I was not disappointed!
There is a inexplicable connection between Blackjack and Elyse from the start that had my heart singing. But I had a feeling that all was not how it seemed.
When the truth comes out, my heart literally fell. And my nerves were shot to pieces!!
The hits don't stop coming and that twist near the end?!!! WTF?!!
What an absolutely heart stopping read! Loved every word!! Go, one click it now!!
Profile Image for Dianne Taylor.
108 reviews2 followers
June 9, 2022
I have to say I was really looking forward to this story. As usual Jessica Ames has created a complex set of characters to get lost in for a while. Whilst Blackjack can be read as a stand-alone I would recommend at least reading the previous story Howler. But for an even better experience read the whole Untamed Sons London books to get a greater understanding of the dynamics and nuances of the MC. Blackjack pretty much picks up where Howler left off.

Matt (Blackjack) got his name because of his love of the game it’s either cards or riding his bike when he’s not with his brothers. So he does spend his time at a Casino to blow off steam. Blackjack comes across as tough and unrelenting while dealing with all things MC in his role as Vice President. Ensuring his brother’s safety, defending them to all that pose a threat. But that’s not all he is, he is loyal to a fault and there is a depth to his character, he’s not just a tough guy.

Elyse has the weight of the world on her shoulders, living hand to mouth picking up the pieces following her deadbeat dads disappearance. She’s taken on the role of parent to her twelve year old brother and has also been saddled with her fathers debt. She’s in a desperate situation trying to juggle her own and brothers safety and well-being while staving off her fathers “loan-shark”. Who is asking for more and more money from Elyse and if she doesn’t pay will take the money out in kind from her.

This leads to Elyse doing something drastic as despite working two jobs and caring for her brother she knows she can’t come up with the increasing amounts of money “Howard” the loanshark wants. She decides to head to the Casino to either win big or find a Mark and relive them of their winnings.

This is were things get interesting, it’s clear from the off that Elyse and Blackjack have a connection. Their chemistry is off the charts but that’s all shot down when Blackjack catches Elyse stealing his winnings the next morning. While he does something he never does and let’s her go she’s always in his head. But Elyse doesn’t just leave with the winnings it seems there is a more permanent life changing momento of that night as well.

It’s clear that Elyse is in a very dangerous situation, which is only going to keep spinning out of control. The only person she knows to take on the predator is the one person she betrayed. But nope Blackjack is definitely not going there and throws her out…until a bloodied and bruised Elyse turns up again. Then watch out “Howard”.

I loved the dynamic between not only Blackjack and Elyse but also Blackjack and Aaron Elyse’s younger brother. You really got the sense of family as well from the whole MC even if there was a tussle or two from other brothers.

There are unexpected twists in the story which are just heartbreaking for Elyse but at the heart is a ‘family’ willing to do anything for one of their own.

This story was gritty at times and fair warning be aware of the triggers in this story. That being said these aspects of the book added realism to the story and I did not feel like they were added in a gratuitous way. Rather they added to the sense of realism and enhanced the storytelling.

I can’t wait for Terror’s story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
16 reviews
March 7, 2025
(SPOILERS AHEAD)

Triggers: Attempted Rape; Nonconsensual/coerced sexual acts; Graphic Torture (mainly of the bad guys); Trauma; Kidnapping; Murder

I wanted to start this review off with these trigger warnings because this seems to be a consistent theme throughout this series; but this book specifically shows some of these more so that the previous book.

Now, I am a definite mood reader, as well as someone who reads to escape the monotony and negatives of real life. So, I usually need to be in the mood and very aware of what I’m getting into when I read books that show things like the aforementioned triggers.

That said, I really enjoyed Blackjack. I actually read the first four books in a bundle, and I’ll write separate reviews. I enjoyed Howler so much, and when I first started reading Blackjack I wasn’t sure if I was going to like the MMC. But, now, I’m waffling back and forth between if he’s my favorite or if Howler is. I personally feel like the forced sexual acts in the beginning of the book and the almost hookup Blackjack had were kind of unnecessary to the plot. Though, in my mind I was already making them a couple and I’m very anti-cheating; and it did increase just how angry he was later. But it didn’t really add anything to the book for me and it almost seemed like an after thought considering most of the book he was going off of the attempted rape and not the successful forced/coerced sexual acts (I don’t really know how to phrase this while trying to not actually spoil what is written).

Now, the unexpected pregnancy, the surrogate parental situation, and the possessiveness/protectiveness Blackjack has going on (after he got past his trust issues) had me hooked. Then you add in just how dangerous he is (trust me, you’ll see) and how great of a father figure he’ll be. Yeah, I liked this one.

The good view into the other characters and relationships continued in this book, though it seemed to focus a bit more on highlighting the person next-in-line as opposed to everyone. The author still wrote them well where I was already connecting to others enough I immediately went into the next books.

I especially enjoyed how different it was to book one and how quick their relationship progressed. And the graphic torture? The part of me who kind of likes the “hurt her and die” kind of man…well, my eyebrows raised but I kind of appreciated it. But it was definitely more visual than the torture of the first book.

5 ⭐️

Excellent book! I don’t think I’ll every want to be an “Old Lady” but he definitely had me asking “book husband?”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,309 reviews207 followers
June 14, 2022
3.75 stars— BLACKJACK is the second instalment in Jessica Ames’ contemporary, adult UNTAMED SONS MC: MANCHESTER CHAPTER dark, erotic, MC romance series. This is Untamed Sons Vice President Matt ‘Blackjack’, and twenty year old, receptionist/waitress Elyse Taylor. BLACKJACK can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

WARNING: Due to the strong language and nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Blackjack and Elyse) BLACKJACK focuses on any repayment for someone else’s debt. Blackjack is a gambler who rarely loses but after another successful night, Blackjack celebrates with twenty year old Elyse Taylor, a stranger who robs him of his winnings before saying goodbye. Several weeks will pass when Elyse makes a surprise visit to the Untamed Sons MC, looking for help from the man that she robbed, and announcing she is pregnant with Blackjack’s baby.Still struggling in the wake of the theft, Blackjack battles between head and heart knowing he wanted nothing to do with Elyse ever again but Elyse and her brother are in trouble, and Elyse may be paying with more than her life. What ensues is the quick building relationship between Elyse and Blackjack, and the potential fall-out as Elyse finds herself at the mercy of the man threatening their lives.

The relationship between Elyse and Blackjack begins as a one night stand wherein Elyse, desperate for money, robs our story line hero. Blackjack threatens Elyse if she should ever show her face again but desperate time called for desperate measures, and Elyse found herself grovelling to the man with whom she would fall in love but with Elyse’s announcement Blackjack has a sudden change of heart, and finds himself becoming protector and guardian of the woman he will claim as his own. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense.

We are introduced to Elyse’s younger brother Aaron, as well as the return of Howler and Pia, Socket, Doc Mara, and Terror. The requisite evil has a couple of faces.

BLACKJACK is another story of betrayal and vengeance, abuse, torture and power, acceptance and love. The premise is gritty but entertaining; the romance is erotic and seductive; the characters are desperate but determined.


www.thereadingcafe.com
Profile Image for Arenia.
356 reviews26 followers
June 25, 2022
Blackjack was a perfect balance of gruff, protective, and rough, while still being loving and sweet in his own way, and I love it. I also happen to love Elyse and I feel like she’s a more realistic version of what a strong, independent woman who has had a semi-normal upbringing would be like. I often see “tough” FMCs that know krav maga or go around with switchblades in their pockets, and while that is nice to read sometimes, most of the time it feels unrealistic. Elyse was emotionally strong and had both weaker and stronger moments. And her strong moments weren’t over the top; it all felt like reasonable reactions that the average person might experience or do, so I appreciated that with Elyse. I’ll also note that I don’t usually like little sibling characters but I love Aaron!

I will note that this particular story had less of an emphasis or focus on the MC. There wasn’t any hangaround/other women drama, and there wasn’t much club drama either. This would probably be a good read for someone who doesn’t like really heavy MC stories or is unfamiliar with it, but if you’re looking for a story that’s really focused on the club then you may not care for this one.

This book is definitely steamy; I believe there were three substantive explicit, detailed scenes, and then a few other spicy moments sprinkled throughout.

Finally, make sure to read through the author’s trigger warnings before reading this story. The link to the trigger warnings can be found via a link in the author’s note at the beginning.

There was a little sneak peek at the end about the next book for Terror, and I’m definitely looking forward to continuing the series!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Toni.
74 reviews3 followers
June 25, 2022
Wow. Let me start off with the trigger warnings in case you are here looking for them: assault, attempted SA, forced oral. Now to my review. Going in essentially blind to the plot was slightly terrifying to me. I have read other MC books from other authors that fell way short of my MC expectations. I did read the TW's so I knew to expect that in the story at some point. With all this being said, this book took my worries and blew them out of the water. I loved it. The story from start to finish was a superb read to me. It had the violence, sex, and alphahole possessiveness I love in the great MC books. Did Elyse and Blackjack start off on a rocky go? For sure. Did he show up for her when she needed it? 1,000,000%. Not without some doubts in all fairness, but I do not blame him given how they started. Elyse did what she needed to do for her brother and her.

Elyse is 22 and in care of her younger brother due to unfortunate circumstances. They involve her needing to come up with money to someone she is being told she owes. Only soon, the money isn't enough for him. When she finds out she is pregnant, she goes to Blackjack to beg him for help for the sake of their baby.

Blackjack is the VP of the club. He saw Elyse in the casino and instantly wanted her. After their night together, he finds her robbing him and threatens her for the deceit. When she steps back into his life weeks later, she is claiming to be pregnant and need help. He doesn't believe her until the facts are stacked against him. Will he decide to believe and help her?

This book has dual POV, age gap, trust issues, surprise pregnancy, and almost insta-love.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Dark and Angsty.
111 reviews13 followers
June 24, 2022
Blackjack is the 2nd book in the Manchester Chapter Untamed Sons MC. This book is about Blackjack (VP of the Untamed Sons) & Elyse.

Blackjack & Elyse meet at a casino, and find they are both drawn to each other. Elyse is desperate, and when she loses sight of herl by going to bed with BlacBlackjack, quickly realizes that she only has one option…to steal from him. He catches her but lets her go with a warning, she is to never show her face near him again if she wants to live. Unfortunately, trouble strikes a few weeks later when she finds out she’s pregnant, with Blackjacks baby, but he maybe her & her brothers only hope at staying safe.

This is a quick read, at about 2 hours, but Jessica did a fantastic job with giving you a full story that leaves you wanting more! Blackjack is the definition of Jealous Protective Alpha man that would do anything to keep his loved ones safe. Elyse is a strong FMC & does whatever it takes to keep a roof over her & her brothers head as well as doing her best to keep them both safe. Trusting someone with her heart is not a small task for her but she finds being with Blackjack makes her feel safe and he has this pull towards her that he can’t explain. It was such a great story with a HEA. I’m already excited about book 3 from just the small clip I have seen from the preview from this book! This book is lust to enemies to lovers, with a accidental pregnancy, jealous protective alpha, found family, and some 🌶🤤🔥. I will definitely be recommending this book to everyone!
-Ace
Profile Image for Rebel Devlin.
220 reviews6 followers
January 23, 2023
Jessica Ames gives us Blackjack's story from her Untamed Sons MC: Manchester Chapter series! Blackjack is the Vice President of the club and a gambler, hence the road name. His job is to always look for trouble coming their way, except when it's in the form of a beautiful woman. His instant attraction to her had his guard down and he lost 10 grand to her! He never thought he'd see her again until one day she showed up at his club.
Elyse has more trouble on her shoulders than she deserves. Her father has her backed into a corner with a loan shark he owes and all she wants to do is protect her brother and herself. When she has the chance to rob a Untamed Sons biker she takes it against her better judgement than has to go to him for help. The loan shark is getting worse and she finds out she's pregnant....by Blackjack!
Blackjack is pissed at her when she shows up but he gives his word that he will protect her. He'll get the loan shark off her back before she has to do unthinkable things. Can the attraction he feels for her let him forgive her for stealing from him? Could she really be the woman of his dreams? Can Elyse truly trust the man she stole from? This book is drama packed and brings us everything we love about Jessica Ames. This book does have triggers for sensitive readers who can't handle them. It can be read as a standalone without missing anything but I recommend starting with the 1st book in the series. I can't wait for the rest of the series to come out so I can read them!
Profile Image for Barbara.
2,648 reviews61 followers
June 13, 2022
This is book 2 in the Manchester chapter of the Untamed Sons MC and boy was it ever an exciting, emotional read. I wish to start by telling fellow readers who may have triggers to heed the author’s warnings. I understand her warnings but would also like to say she handles some triggering subjects with the utmost of care and sensitivity.

Blackjack is the club’s VP. When he needs to unwind, he hit the card tables at his favorite casino. It’s there he sees a stunning woman who knows nothing about the card game she’s playing. They fall into a friendly banter that ends up with a one night stand. Little does Blackjack know she plans on robbing him while he’s sleeping. But as luck or unluck for her would have it, he catches her in the act. For some reason this hardnose, ruthless biker lets her walk away with his money (all 10 grand) but warns her he better never see her again or else. So imagine his surprise when she turns up weeks later at his clubhouse wanting his protection from an evil man who is threatening her and her little brother. Oh and she drops another bomb on him when she tells him he’s going to be a father.

Awesome MC read you don’t want to miss out on. The book has got a little bit of everything: excitement, action, suspense, romance and even a twist that this reader sure didn’t see coming. I highly recommend grabbing it up.

2 Thumbs up and 5+ Stars
Profile Image for Curvy Girl Book Nerd   (Jen S).
4,642 reviews62 followers
June 8, 2024
Blackjack is Book 2 of the Manchester Chapter Untamed Sons MC series. It's a steamy, instalove, OTT, enemies-to-lovers vibe, age-gap, surprise pregnancy, girl gets her biker dark romance. Elyse is a sweet 22 year old taking care of her 12 year old brother after their father left them with a gambling debt. Blackjack (Matt) is the hunky VP of the Manchester Chapter of the Untamed Sons MC. The two meet in a casino and are insanely attracted to one another. They share a hot night, but he catches her, trying to steal from him. He is so angry. He lets her go but says he will kill her if he sees her again. Elyse is being abused and sexually assaulted by the loan shark. After she passes out one night at work, she finds out she's pregnant. When her situation escalates, she and her brother run to Matt for help again. Will he turn her away again? This book kept me on the edge of my seat. There are a lot of darker themes as well as triggers for rape, sexual assault, and violence. I did love watching this couple come together. Their chemistry was insane. There is a lot of drama and angst, but we do end on a happy note. I loved seeing Matt come around and take such good care of Elyse. This was my first book by this author but definitely not the last!!!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jenn the Readaholic.
2,189 reviews72 followers
June 9, 2022
What happens when the biker gets taken for a ride? And then the person who played him needs help in the most desperate of ways? If you’re Blackjack, you bluster a bit, scare the woman, realize you want her no matter what, and do your best to win her. And that’s exactly what he sets out to do.

Elyse is desperate. So very desperate. She even stoops to conning the hottest man she’s ever laid eyes on. And when things go sideways, she has to ask him for help. But will he believe her? Or will he send her packing? After all, he’s a biker. But these bikers have some standards and lines that they refuse to cross. So as Blackjack sets out to win Elyse, he also works to rid her of the danger hounding her and her brother. But when the danger turns out to be so much closer, so much crueler, and so much worst than expected, decisions need to be made. And promises need to be kept.

This series hasn’t disappointed me yet. Blackjack and Elyse had the key to a relationship: communication. And when you have that, the rest falls into place a little more easily. So now we have another woman emerging from danger, another man down to love, and another story on the horizon. And I’m totally here for what’s next.
Profile Image for Merry Jelks-Emmanuel.
13.4k reviews155 followers
September 8, 2022
This enthralling story had me from page one! Blackjack is the VP of the Manchester Chapter Untamed Sons MC. His road name comes from his love of the game. He is in a casino playing cards when he connects with Elyse a beautiful redhead that captivates him. They have one memorable one-night stand where she tries to steal his poker winnings. Angry he gives them to her and tells her he doesn't want to see her again or there will be trouble. Elyse was at the ends of her ropes and had no choice but to takes his chips but in the end, they still weren't enough because her father's loan shark wanted all that he owed. His behavior towards her will have her seeking out Blackjack for help and with it will start their path. He doesn't trust her, but he understands why she did what she had to do and when he finds out that he is to become a father, it changes the outcome entirely, but Elyse troubles are still there. Will Blackjack and his MC brothers be able to rally around Elyse and her brother to keep them safe? I really connected with Elyse and found her to be one strong woman for all that she had to endure!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Wendy Hodges.
2,915 reviews43 followers
June 5, 2022
Elyse is strong trying her hardest to protect herself and her brother while also trying to survive. She does something that goes against everything she believes but has no choice, unfortunately it has consequences. Blackjack, road named for something he loves other than just the MC, he is hard, forceful and even violent when it's needed, but after an a event at a casino his life changes. He is awesome, loving, caring and protective not only of Elyse but her brother as well. I love this MC, they have each other's backs with unquestionable support and love. This story is emotional, the subject matter ensures that. But there is violence and some abuse as often comes with MC stories, suspense of course, you just know something else will happen to throw off best laid plans. Gripping with a fast flow, I found it moving and exciting, even powerful at times. It has its sentimental and soft parts right along with the steamy hot. For me, I sank right in from the first page to the end, loved it and the characters and feel it's a fabulous addition to a series I adore. I'm also very much looking forward to the next book up.
5,057 reviews28 followers
June 24, 2022
Blackjack the VP of Manchester Chapter Untamed Sons MC, spends a lot of time playing card and wins a lot. His main game is blackjack, hence his road name, but he also does well at poker. He is playing one night when this gorgeous red head sit at the table next to him. The chemistry between them is hot and they get a room for the night.

Elyse tries not to wake him, quietly lifts the chips out of his pants, she is almost to the door when he catches her. He is angry but lets her go with the money. She should have known better than to take something for herself when she was only supposed to get the money. She needs the money for a loan shark that is threatening her.

When she finds out she is pregnant, she has no one else to turn to, Blackjack. He does not trust her but damn he is still hot for her. When she comes back later, she has been beaten his protective instincts kick, no one is going to mess with her.

This is a steamy story, with some action, Elyse needs to earn his trust before they can have anything together.

I received an Advance Readers Copy of this book with no obligation to write a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.