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The Reckless Damned #2
Devil May Care
One life-altering kiss sets our whole world on fire.
Harlow
I’ll tell you what isn’t on my agenda for this century: finding my fated mate only to have him reject me.
In fact, having a mate and tying myself down for eternity isn’t even a blip on my radar. But the moment I meet Bailey, there’s no denying he’s meant to be mine. Everything about the gentle Welsh giant calls to me, consuming my thoughts.
The problem? He doesn’t feel the same way. One life-altering kiss has him running in the other direction, leaving me to watch over him from the shadows.
When the opportunity arises to build a friendship, I grab it with both hands. Surely being his friend is better than nothing, right?
It will have to be, especially with a clan of mages sniffing around and looking for trouble. Not unusual since I am an estranged son of Lucifer. But now that I have my mate to consider, things are a lot more serious. How can I truly protect Bailey when he doesn’t even know I’m a demon?
Bailey
I learned a long time ago that relationships aren’t for me. Nobody wants to commit to a bigger guy, especially one who craves a different role in the bedroom.
When Harlow sashays into my life, I can’t help but wish things could be different. Sure, he seems interested, but history has proven that eventually, everyone leaves me.
There’s no way a vibrant firecracker like Harlow wants to be anything more than friends.
But the closer we get, the harder it is to keep him at arm’s length. He tells me he wants a relationship, but how can I believe him when I know he’s hiding something from me?
Devil May Care is an exciting, high-heat, friends-to-lovers paranormal romance with a guaranteed HEA. It is the second book in The Reckless Damned series, and although it can be read as a standalone, more enjoyment would be gained from reading the series in order. Each book focuses on a different couple and will have an HEA.
Harlow
I’ll tell you what isn’t on my agenda for this century: finding my fated mate only to have him reject me.
In fact, having a mate and tying myself down for eternity isn’t even a blip on my radar. But the moment I meet Bailey, there’s no denying he’s meant to be mine. Everything about the gentle Welsh giant calls to me, consuming my thoughts.
The problem? He doesn’t feel the same way. One life-altering kiss has him running in the other direction, leaving me to watch over him from the shadows.
When the opportunity arises to build a friendship, I grab it with both hands. Surely being his friend is better than nothing, right?
It will have to be, especially with a clan of mages sniffing around and looking for trouble. Not unusual since I am an estranged son of Lucifer. But now that I have my mate to consider, things are a lot more serious. How can I truly protect Bailey when he doesn’t even know I’m a demon?
Bailey
I learned a long time ago that relationships aren’t for me. Nobody wants to commit to a bigger guy, especially one who craves a different role in the bedroom.
When Harlow sashays into my life, I can’t help but wish things could be different. Sure, he seems interested, but history has proven that eventually, everyone leaves me.
There’s no way a vibrant firecracker like Harlow wants to be anything more than friends.
But the closer we get, the harder it is to keep him at arm’s length. He tells me he wants a relationship, but how can I believe him when I know he’s hiding something from me?
Devil May Care is an exciting, high-heat, friends-to-lovers paranormal romance with a guaranteed HEA. It is the second book in The Reckless Damned series, and although it can be read as a standalone, more enjoyment would be gained from reading the series in order. Each book focuses on a different couple and will have an HEA.
341 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 9, 2022
385 people are currently reading
1202 people want to read
About the author
Lark Taylor
31 books1,230 followersLark lives with her family in southern England. An obsessive romance fan, she loves nothing more than a Happily Ever After – especially if there’s a good plot and a hefty amount of spice along the way. When she’s not reading or writing, she can be found hiding from adult life in escape rooms, travel and the MCU. As a Bi woman with OCD, Lark is a fervent supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community and an advocate for mental health awareness and support.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 412 reviews
November 2, 2022
Oh my god. Oh my god. OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!! This book. It was so good. I remember when I read Devil’s Mark, and I wrote a note saying 10 bucks that Harlow and Bailey are mates. And what do you know???? I’m a literal genius. I’ve been excited to read their story since then. I knew it would be fabulous. Harlow had my heart in the last book, so I was so excited to read about this spitfire.
I was honestly surprised with the route the author took this story in though. Bailey has so many insecurities that I wouldn’t have even guessed. It was nice to see a big, strong character like him have weaknesses, but sometimes I was like Bailey if you don’t shut the hell up. But anyway. You’ll see what I mean.
There was a lot of British slang in this. It’s been a minute since I read the first book, so I can’t remember if there was as much slang in that one as there is in this one. It was so fun to read, but I did have to google a lot and figure out what the heck some of these words meant. It was so cool though. I’ve read books before that had slang I didn’t understand and they made me mad, but this was totally different. I can’t really explain it other than it just didn’t bother me. The words were funny.
Y’all the sex. THE SEX!!!!! It was sooooooo good. The dynamic these two had is one of my favorite things to read in books. You’ll see what I mean. It’s very sexy. Scrumptious. Delicious. Yum.
GUYS!!!!!!!! The plot twist??????? Oh my god. I wish y’all could text me when you read it. I want to talk about it. I usually read my books when I am laying in bed, and this plot twist had me sitting up with my spine ramrod straight. I don’t think I was breathing either. How crazy this author has to be to come up with something like that. Woooowwowowowowowowo. Bowing down to her.
We got to meet some new characters in this book that I am super excited about. I cannot wait to see what this author does with them. Mori’s story is next, and I cannot wait to see that darling demon baby get the love he deserves. Oh and we got to see more of the Dimitri and Dagon dynamic!!!! I love those guys. That’ll be a good story when we get it.
I know this review is all over the place and I am rambling, but I hope you got the gist of it that this book is so freaking good. I have so many things to say about and I could type for hours, but I am sure there’s got to be a character limit or something so we are stopping here. Just please for the love of Satan read it. Peace love and Lucifer’s sons!!!!!!!!!!
I was honestly surprised with the route the author took this story in though. Bailey has so many insecurities that I wouldn’t have even guessed. It was nice to see a big, strong character like him have weaknesses, but sometimes I was like Bailey if you don’t shut the hell up. But anyway. You’ll see what I mean.
There was a lot of British slang in this. It’s been a minute since I read the first book, so I can’t remember if there was as much slang in that one as there is in this one. It was so fun to read, but I did have to google a lot and figure out what the heck some of these words meant. It was so cool though. I’ve read books before that had slang I didn’t understand and they made me mad, but this was totally different. I can’t really explain it other than it just didn’t bother me. The words were funny.
Y’all the sex. THE SEX!!!!! It was sooooooo good. The dynamic these two had is one of my favorite things to read in books. You’ll see what I mean. It’s very sexy. Scrumptious. Delicious. Yum.
GUYS!!!!!!!! The plot twist??????? Oh my god. I wish y’all could text me when you read it. I want to talk about it. I usually read my books when I am laying in bed, and this plot twist had me sitting up with my spine ramrod straight. I don’t think I was breathing either. How crazy this author has to be to come up with something like that. Woooowwowowowowowowo. Bowing down to her.
We got to meet some new characters in this book that I am super excited about. I cannot wait to see what this author does with them. Mori’s story is next, and I cannot wait to see that darling demon baby get the love he deserves. Oh and we got to see more of the Dimitri and Dagon dynamic!!!! I love those guys. That’ll be a good story when we get it.
I know this review is all over the place and I am rambling, but I hope you got the gist of it that this book is so freaking good. I have so many things to say about and I could type for hours, but I am sure there’s got to be a character limit or something so we are stopping here. Just please for the love of Satan read it. Peace love and Lucifer’s sons!!!!!!!!!!
July 15, 2023
~2.5~
We spend 75% of the story waiting for Bailey to pull his head out of his ass, and the remaining 25% chasing him to Hell and back (literally).
I loved sassy, flirty Harlow in book 1, but that Harlow disappeared, to be replaced by needy, inconsolable Harlow who pines after his fated mate and frankly has too much patience for Bailey's childish push/pull maneuvers. Bailey was dull as dirt.
The most interesting character in the story was Ferry, and he barely got any page time.
Too many plot points were left dangling. The thing with the mages was thrown in there but never resolved. So unsatisfying!
Also, if you really think on the world building here, you'll start to notice the gaping holes in the logic.
Like where the fuck is Satan? If he's that powerful, why hasn't he captured his sons yet? Do these demons have a mother? I have so many questions!
I might read the other two books in this series, but I'm in no hurry.
We spend 75% of the story waiting for Bailey to pull his head out of his ass, and the remaining 25% chasing him to Hell and back (literally).
I loved sassy, flirty Harlow in book 1, but that Harlow disappeared, to be replaced by needy, inconsolable Harlow who pines after his fated mate and frankly has too much patience for Bailey's childish push/pull maneuvers. Bailey was dull as dirt.
The most interesting character in the story was Ferry, and he barely got any page time.
Too many plot points were left dangling. The thing with the mages was thrown in there but never resolved. So unsatisfying!
Also, if you really think on the world building here, you'll start to notice the gaping holes in the logic.
Like where the fuck is Satan? If he's that powerful, why hasn't he captured his sons yet? Do these demons have a mother? I have so many questions!
I might read the other two books in this series, but I'm in no hurry.
February 18, 2024
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
I’m not going to hate on this book (too much) because I already knew I would struggle with it. Lark is a great author and I generally enjoy her stories a lot. Unfortunately I don’t like Bailey and Harlow as a couple, and struggled to sympathize with Bailey in general. That’s just my personal preferences (and issues) at play, though. I can relate to a lot of Bailey’s hang-ups and issues, which made it more emotional in some ways than I expected. However, I didn’t agree with how he dealt with said problems and how he treated Harlow because of it.
You might be wondering why I even read this book when I already knew I wouldn’t *love* it, and it’s basically just because I wanted to know the rest of the characters. I wanted to see the guys meet Ferry (I loved Patience), and I wanted to figure out why everyone hates Blaise so much, lol. Both series have a massive cast, so I wanted to get caught up.
Harlow wasn’t as much of a sassy spitfire and murderous twink as I expected him to be after book 1, but he was still a fun character. I ended up liking him more than I expected to.
I really enjoyed Joel Leslie and Dan Calley’s work on the audiobook. The accents were awesome!
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Demon/human
Fated mates
Sassy & snarky MC
Size difference
Plus size MC
Former playboys fall hard
Makeup
Twink/bear
Push & pull
First-time bottom
Flying sex
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Main character death (comes back to life)
Explicit sexual content
Graphic violence
On-page killing
Homphobia (past)
Themes of self image issues regarding body weight and looks
Mentions of past body shaming
Facefucking
Brief mentions of MC being cheated on by an ex
Dismemberment
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: Yes
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Genre: Paranormal romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: Not specified.
Pages: 341
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
I’m not going to hate on this book (too much) because I already knew I would struggle with it. Lark is a great author and I generally enjoy her stories a lot. Unfortunately I don’t like Bailey and Harlow as a couple, and struggled to sympathize with Bailey in general. That’s just my personal preferences (and issues) at play, though. I can relate to a lot of Bailey’s hang-ups and issues, which made it more emotional in some ways than I expected. However, I didn’t agree with how he dealt with said problems and how he treated Harlow because of it.
You might be wondering why I even read this book when I already knew I wouldn’t *love* it, and it’s basically just because I wanted to know the rest of the characters. I wanted to see the guys meet Ferry (I loved Patience), and I wanted to figure out why everyone hates Blaise so much, lol. Both series have a massive cast, so I wanted to get caught up.
Harlow wasn’t as much of a sassy spitfire and murderous twink as I expected him to be after book 1, but he was still a fun character. I ended up liking him more than I expected to.
I really enjoyed Joel Leslie and Dan Calley’s work on the audiobook. The accents were awesome!
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Demon/human
Fated mates
Sassy & snarky MC
Size difference
Plus size MC
Former playboys fall hard
Makeup
Twink/bear
Push & pull
First-time bottom
Flying sex
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Main character death (comes back to life)
Explicit sexual content
Graphic violence
On-page killing
Homphobia (past)
Themes of self image issues regarding body weight and looks
Mentions of past body shaming
Facefucking
Brief mentions of MC being cheated on by an ex
Dismemberment
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: Yes
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Genre: Paranormal romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: Not specified.
Pages: 341
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
September 6, 2023
two 5 star reads in a row and they are both from the same series?! i am shook. this series has been amazing so far 😍
October 31, 2022
"Fate, apparently, is a massive cockblock."
Friends, this one is what I'd call a slow burn fated mates romance. Which may seem like a juxtaposition but stay with me.
One thing about the Fated Mates trope is, depending on your definition of love, it may either tickle your fancy or deter you far from it. Some of us are addicted to the slow type of loves, the ones that take time to mature, the ones that have you reading (pun-intended) into every touch and every lingering glance. With fated mates, it's typically instant, it's all consuming, it's inexplicable and for some of us, we need a detailed explanation, like our math textbooks say, we need them to "justify their answer". Which is fair; to each their own 🥰
Sooo after all that, *ahem* I do have good news for both my slow burn addicts and fated mates lovers, this book straddles both sides with ease 🤌🏾
"First, I’d convince him his body was worthy of love. Then I’d tackle his soul."
Harlow and Bailey are fated mates, they both experience the instant jolt, the spark. But ... and it's a big one, Bailey initially rejects Harlow. Not because he's a demon (I meannn it's not how Harlow chooses to introduce himself which, imo, was a smart decision), not because he doesn't "swing that way"... nahhh, Bailey is just a precious insecure bean who needs to be protected at all costs 🥺🥺 and thus commences our slow burn fated mates romance. Harlow, a feisty, snarky, commitment-phobe whose life changes with just one look, works relentlessly to simultaneously prove his devotion to Bailey and respect the distance from his mate's decision. In other words, Harlow's friendzoned. Hard.
Now I love a good slow burn as much as the next person but for me, it only works when it's slow burn with hope. Give me slow burn with pining, give me slow burn with stalking, give me slowburn with CUDDLES, give me slowburn with lines like this (especially when our MCs aren't together):
"Bailey had the power to destroy me like no one else on Earth , in Heaven, or in Hell."
This one served and served me a heaping plate of all those things 🤤🤤
Honestly, so much happens in this book! Things that had me chewing my fingernails and clutching my damn pearls. So too keep this as spoiler free as possible, I'll just say, y'all the plot has thickened and I'm so here for it! Also Dagon's mate!!!! It's giving Bellamy and Pheonix... iykyk 😌
This was the perfect continuation to this series 💛💛
Friends, this one is what I'd call a slow burn fated mates romance. Which may seem like a juxtaposition but stay with me.
One thing about the Fated Mates trope is, depending on your definition of love, it may either tickle your fancy or deter you far from it. Some of us are addicted to the slow type of loves, the ones that take time to mature, the ones that have you reading (pun-intended) into every touch and every lingering glance. With fated mates, it's typically instant, it's all consuming, it's inexplicable and for some of us, we need a detailed explanation, like our math textbooks say, we need them to "justify their answer". Which is fair; to each their own 🥰
Sooo after all that, *ahem* I do have good news for both my slow burn addicts and fated mates lovers, this book straddles both sides with ease 🤌🏾
"First, I’d convince him his body was worthy of love. Then I’d tackle his soul."
Harlow and Bailey are fated mates, they both experience the instant jolt, the spark. But ... and it's a big one, Bailey initially rejects Harlow. Not because he's a demon (I meannn it's not how Harlow chooses to introduce himself which, imo, was a smart decision), not because he doesn't "swing that way"... nahhh, Bailey is just a precious insecure bean who needs to be protected at all costs 🥺🥺 and thus commences our slow burn fated mates romance. Harlow, a feisty, snarky, commitment-phobe whose life changes with just one look, works relentlessly to simultaneously prove his devotion to Bailey and respect the distance from his mate's decision. In other words, Harlow's friendzoned. Hard.
Now I love a good slow burn as much as the next person but for me, it only works when it's slow burn with hope. Give me slow burn with pining, give me slow burn with stalking, give me slowburn with CUDDLES, give me slowburn with lines like this (especially when our MCs aren't together):
"Bailey had the power to destroy me like no one else on Earth , in Heaven, or in Hell."
This one served and served me a heaping plate of all those things 🤤🤤
Honestly, so much happens in this book! Things that had me chewing my fingernails and clutching my damn pearls. So too keep this as spoiler free as possible, I'll just say, y'all the plot has thickened and I'm so here for it! Also Dagon's mate!!!! It's giving Bellamy and Pheonix... iykyk 😌
This was the perfect continuation to this series 💛💛
August 12, 2024
reread
i’m not that dumb, apparently. but it made me cry so it gets bonus points.
fingers crossed for mori.
original review
i’m either way dumber than i thought or the author didn’t explain herself.
she said that mates don’t exist, she wrote a couple that perfectly represent mates and in this one she tells us that demons and angels have mates.
nice to know, i guess.
we have a healthy dose of simping and protectiveness, which i always enjoy. i truly loved low and bailey together.
i’ve appreciated that this was different from book one, even though there’s less action and i am a bit disappointed that they didn’t resolve the ghasts conflict.
i enjoyed the first book a little more, but i very much liked this one as well and i can’t wait for my baby mori to finally have his HEA.
i’m not that dumb, apparently. but it made me cry so it gets bonus points.
fingers crossed for mori.
original review
i’m either way dumber than i thought or the author didn’t explain herself.
she said that mates don’t exist, she wrote a couple that perfectly represent mates and in this one she tells us that demons and angels have mates.
nice to know, i guess.
we have a healthy dose of simping and protectiveness, which i always enjoy. i truly loved low and bailey together.
i’ve appreciated that this was different from book one, even though there’s less action and i am a bit disappointed that they didn’t resolve the ghasts conflict.
i enjoyed the first book a little more, but i very much liked this one as well and i can’t wait for my baby mori to finally have his HEA.
January 13, 2023
I loved Harlow and Bailey so much! 💜
This is the second book in The Reckless Damned series and I'm obsessed with these brothers!!! *bestie this is a reminder to you that you need to read my favourite book!!!*
Harlow and Bailey were such an amazing surprise. I didn't know what to expect going into their book but I most definitely didn't expect my heart to ache so much for them, to cry when something so unexpected happened, to not be able to put down the book because I NEEDED TO KNOW what happens next. Of course, I expected all the laughs, the gentle smile that was on my lips, the warm feeling of seeing Harlow and Bailey slowly falling in love, the brothers together, and not to mention the amazing smut scenes!!! 🥵💛
Harlow was really a firecracker and I adored his sassy attitude. We also got to see a different side of him, a gentle, caring side meant only for Bailey. In the first book (as well as this one) Harlow is such a vibrant character, full of confidence, he is expressive and just so lovable. However, reading Devil May Care gave me a side of him that I never suspected.
Bailey... I don't know where to begin. Actually, I do. Can I get inside the book and just give these two a big hug? My impression of Bailey in the first book was very different than the real him we see here. Don't get me wrong, I loved him in Devil's Mark. Here though, we see behind the mask he puts, behind all the tough acts from the outside.
What to expect:
💛 Heart-touching romance that will warm your heart and soul
💛 Friends to lovers
💛 Demons, mages
💛 A brilliant writing style
💛 Amazing plot that will have you glued to your Kindle
💛 HOT, I repeat HOT smutty times (holy moly I loved these two together and was pleasantly surprised at some things *cough*)
💛 Plot twists you won't see coming
💛 A wild ride with the brothers that you can't help yourself but love
💛 Banter that will make you laugh out loud
💛 A love story that will make you experience so many emotions, but above all, it will make you smile at the love these two have for each other (well, it will also make you want to crawl into the book and give a big hug to Harlow and Bailey)
💛 New characters that you will be so excited to meet (aghhh, I can't wait for Mori's book, did I mention I love every scene with Dagon and Dimitri!? No, then I'm doing it now, holy moly these two had my heart from book one. And that scene in Hell!? My hearttt)
💛 Bailey may annoy you at times (even though I wanted to smack him a few times, the urge to give him a big hug was bigger)
💛 Scenes in Hell (holy shit, the scene there and the one before that!!!!!! I DID NOT EXPECT THIS AT ALL, I was screaming at my Kindle and crying and trying to read, my heart breaking kcnslspl get tissues ready friends, you will need them!!!)
Cal and Oscar are still my favorite couple (and I think they always will be) but that's because they have a special place in my heart 💛 I can't wait for Mori's book, I'm sure I will adore them too. Mori's book will be so special, he deserves to find his mate.
P.S. I'm changing my rating from 4 to 5 stars after some thinking. First, I've gotta admit Bailey still annoyed me at times, but now I understand him more, why he was the way he was, and why he pushed Harlow (kind of reminds me of me honestly). Second, I adored the book as a whole too much to give it fewer stars. And to be honest Devil's Mark is one of my top books (actually it's my favorite together with Savage Rivals by Becca Steele). And third, after everything Harlow and Bailey went through (God, my heart still hurts thinking about one particular scene, even after so much time) it feels right to give them 5 stars. These two deserve all the love and hugs.
This is the second book in The Reckless Damned series and I'm obsessed with these brothers!!! *bestie this is a reminder to you that you need to read my favourite book!!!*
Harlow and Bailey were such an amazing surprise. I didn't know what to expect going into their book but I most definitely didn't expect my heart to ache so much for them, to cry when something so unexpected happened, to not be able to put down the book because I NEEDED TO KNOW what happens next. Of course, I expected all the laughs, the gentle smile that was on my lips, the warm feeling of seeing Harlow and Bailey slowly falling in love, the brothers together, and not to mention the amazing smut scenes!!! 🥵💛
Harlow was really a firecracker and I adored his sassy attitude. We also got to see a different side of him, a gentle, caring side meant only for Bailey. In the first book (as well as this one) Harlow is such a vibrant character, full of confidence, he is expressive and just so lovable. However, reading Devil May Care gave me a side of him that I never suspected.
Bailey... I don't know where to begin. Actually, I do. Can I get inside the book and just give these two a big hug? My impression of Bailey in the first book was very different than the real him we see here. Don't get me wrong, I loved him in Devil's Mark. Here though, we see behind the mask he puts, behind all the tough acts from the outside.
What to expect:
💛 Heart-touching romance that will warm your heart and soul
💛 Friends to lovers
💛 Demons, mages
💛 A brilliant writing style
💛 Amazing plot that will have you glued to your Kindle
💛 HOT, I repeat HOT smutty times (holy moly I loved these two together and was pleasantly surprised at some things *cough*)
💛 Plot twists you won't see coming
💛 A wild ride with the brothers that you can't help yourself but love
💛 Banter that will make you laugh out loud
💛 A love story that will make you experience so many emotions, but above all, it will make you smile at the love these two have for each other (well, it will also make you want to crawl into the book and give a big hug to Harlow and Bailey)
💛 New characters that you will be so excited to meet (aghhh, I can't wait for Mori's book, did I mention I love every scene with Dagon and Dimitri!? No, then I'm doing it now, holy moly these two had my heart from book one. And that scene in Hell!? My hearttt)
💛 Bailey may annoy you at times (even though I wanted to smack him a few times, the urge to give him a big hug was bigger)
💛 Scenes in Hell (holy shit, the scene there and the one before that!!!!!! I DID NOT EXPECT THIS AT ALL, I was screaming at my Kindle and crying and trying to read, my heart breaking kcnslspl get tissues ready friends, you will need them!!!)
Cal and Oscar are still my favorite couple (and I think they always will be) but that's because they have a special place in my heart 💛 I can't wait for Mori's book, I'm sure I will adore them too. Mori's book will be so special, he deserves to find his mate.
P.S. I'm changing my rating from 4 to 5 stars after some thinking. First, I've gotta admit Bailey still annoyed me at times, but now I understand him more, why he was the way he was, and why he pushed Harlow (kind of reminds me of me honestly). Second, I adored the book as a whole too much to give it fewer stars. And to be honest Devil's Mark is one of my top books (actually it's my favorite together with Savage Rivals by Becca Steele). And third, after everything Harlow and Bailey went through (God, my heart still hurts thinking about one particular scene, even after so much time) it feels right to give them 5 stars. These two deserve all the love and hugs.
May 16, 2024
I was bummed I didn’t enjoy this more! About half of the book felt like the same copy and paste insecurity and then sex scenes.
Bailey just had no personality beyond being self-conscious about his size, and loving Marvel movies. I don’t even know if he loves or hates DC, or likes the comics too, and every nerd has a stance on this they will force you to listen to.
How did I have to read so much about Marvel but we never got the conversations where they share fun stories from their pasts, and only one snippet of fun banter of texts between them?
Why do I not know more about when and how Bailey’s dad left them and how he handled it as a child, if his insecurities hugely revolve around that?
We basically got offhand comments about it. Did he get bullied at school and lie and say his dad works overseas? Did his mom ever try to date and does he feel bad she hasn’t found someone, or secretly feel relieved she hasn’t?
Was he always overweight growing up or did that come later? Was he popular because of his sports prowess or treated badly because of his size? Was he insecure before his ex Matt? Who knows! We hear the same practical cut and paste repeat of “I’m too fat to bottom and/or be loved because of Matt and my dad who is MIA” without any depth or nuance or details about any of it.
Why don’t we get moments of Bailey spending time with any of the siblings, when Harlow and Oscar bonding was such a highlight of book 1?
I wish Harlow’s personality was amped up instead of way toned down to a whipped rejected puppy most of the book, it was just so sad to see. I loved him so much in the first book and it made it hard to like Bailey because of that anyway, let alone with his blandness and repetitiveness, followed by a 180 in less than 24 hours.
I would’ve loved to see Harlow so full drama being overwhelmed by finding a mate that his love interest had absolutely no idea he was interested or was a functional adult.
I’m obsessed with Dagon and Dimitri though so I’m sure I’ll finish this series eventually, but honestly I need to take a break from it after how frustrating this was.
Bailey just had no personality beyond being self-conscious about his size, and loving Marvel movies. I don’t even know if he loves or hates DC, or likes the comics too, and every nerd has a stance on this they will force you to listen to.
How did I have to read so much about Marvel but we never got the conversations where they share fun stories from their pasts, and only one snippet of fun banter of texts between them?
Why do I not know more about when and how Bailey’s dad left them and how he handled it as a child, if his insecurities hugely revolve around that?
We basically got offhand comments about it. Did he get bullied at school and lie and say his dad works overseas? Did his mom ever try to date and does he feel bad she hasn’t found someone, or secretly feel relieved she hasn’t?
Was he always overweight growing up or did that come later? Was he popular because of his sports prowess or treated badly because of his size? Was he insecure before his ex Matt? Who knows! We hear the same practical cut and paste repeat of “I’m too fat to bottom and/or be loved because of Matt and my dad who is MIA” without any depth or nuance or details about any of it.
Why don’t we get moments of Bailey spending time with any of the siblings, when Harlow and Oscar bonding was such a highlight of book 1?
I wish Harlow’s personality was amped up instead of way toned down to a whipped rejected puppy most of the book, it was just so sad to see. I loved him so much in the first book and it made it hard to like Bailey because of that anyway, let alone with his blandness and repetitiveness, followed by a 180 in less than 24 hours.
I would’ve loved to see Harlow so full drama being overwhelmed by finding a mate that his love interest had absolutely no idea he was interested or was a functional adult.
I’m obsessed with Dagon and Dimitri though so I’m sure I’ll finish this series eventually, but honestly I need to take a break from it after how frustrating this was.
May 1, 2023
"In the centre of the dance floor, his hooded gaze devouring me, was Harlow. He was even more beautiful than I remembered. Every dainty inch of him was perfection."
Devil May Care by Lark Taylor is the second book in her delightful series The Reckless Damned, featuring the four demon brothers - and sons of Lucifer himself - Cal, Harlow, Mori and Dagon. The series needs to be read in order.
This is Harlow and Bailey's story.
Harlow is a fiesty, fabulous, firecracker of a demon, with literally ZERO INTENTION of ever settling down. And certainly not with a human, like his big brother brother Cal has just done (much as he ADORES Oscar!) But then he literally walks in to Bailey and it's game over. Soul mate city. Fated forever.
But a demon's life is never straightforward. And Hell is gonna come knocking....
Loved it!
4 sassy stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Devil May Care by Lark Taylor is the second book in her delightful series The Reckless Damned, featuring the four demon brothers - and sons of Lucifer himself - Cal, Harlow, Mori and Dagon. The series needs to be read in order.
This is Harlow and Bailey's story.
Harlow is a fiesty, fabulous, firecracker of a demon, with literally ZERO INTENTION of ever settling down. And certainly not with a human, like his big brother brother Cal has just done (much as he ADORES Oscar!) But then he literally walks in to Bailey and it's game over. Soul mate city. Fated forever.
But a demon's life is never straightforward. And Hell is gonna come knocking....
Loved it!
4 sassy stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
![Profile Image for Lilly [Hiatus due to School] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1663899589i%2F10381707._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
November 10, 2022
Lark Taylor is a new to me author, and Devil May Care is the second book in The Reckless Damned series. Going in, I had no expectations or idea of what to expect, but I thoroughly enjoyed this read!
Harlow is a demon who is all about no string-attached relationships, but it all changes when he meets his fated mate Bailey. He never expected he would have a mate but everything changes.
We have Bailey, a human who is best friends with Oscar, who has insecurities and body images issue due to people in his past. He has low self-confidence and does not think he deserves love. His insecurities run deep, to the point of avoiding all relationships and pushing away Harlow. Bailey is a large teddy bear, and sadly due to stereotypes in the gay communities, he feels that he needs to fill a particular role, and his past partners have sadly not taken his feelings seriously. With Harlow being beautiful and fit, he can’t imagine a man like that ever loving him.
It’s frustrating initially seeing them push and pull, but with a lot of unresolved trauma and insecurities on Bailey’s end, it takes time for Harlow to able to get into his mind that he is there for him forever. It really is a hard-fought HEA for them.
The sex was hot! I loved the chemistry between Harlow and Bailey so much. I loved how Bailey gave over control to Harlow and finally let him love him the way he wanted and deserved.
Without going into spoilers, some unexpected twists in the story kept me on my toes.
Overall, I enjoyed it and can’t wait for the next book. I especially can’t wait for Dagon’s story. But the first thing I will do is make sure to read book one. While I was able to fully enjoy this as it can be read as a standalone, I want to learn about Cal and Oscar’s story!
*I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest thoughts**
Harlow is a demon who is all about no string-attached relationships, but it all changes when he meets his fated mate Bailey. He never expected he would have a mate but everything changes.
We have Bailey, a human who is best friends with Oscar, who has insecurities and body images issue due to people in his past. He has low self-confidence and does not think he deserves love. His insecurities run deep, to the point of avoiding all relationships and pushing away Harlow. Bailey is a large teddy bear, and sadly due to stereotypes in the gay communities, he feels that he needs to fill a particular role, and his past partners have sadly not taken his feelings seriously. With Harlow being beautiful and fit, he can’t imagine a man like that ever loving him.
It’s frustrating initially seeing them push and pull, but with a lot of unresolved trauma and insecurities on Bailey’s end, it takes time for Harlow to able to get into his mind that he is there for him forever. It really is a hard-fought HEA for them.
The sex was hot! I loved the chemistry between Harlow and Bailey so much. I loved how Bailey gave over control to Harlow and finally let him love him the way he wanted and deserved.
Without going into spoilers, some unexpected twists in the story kept me on my toes.
Overall, I enjoyed it and can’t wait for the next book. I especially can’t wait for Dagon’s story. But the first thing I will do is make sure to read book one. While I was able to fully enjoy this as it can be read as a standalone, I want to learn about Cal and Oscar’s story!
*I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest thoughts**
Read
December 12, 2022DNF @ 47%
I understand where Bailey is coming from but I just can't deal with his overwhelming insecurity right now. Had I known his character was like this I would've chosen a better time to read this. I was excited for Harlow's story so this was really disappointing for me. Almost everyone else enjoyed this, so this is obviously a me thing. That being said, I'm still looking forward to reading the next two stories.
I understand where Bailey is coming from but I just can't deal with his overwhelming insecurity right now. Had I known his character was like this I would've chosen a better time to read this. I was excited for Harlow's story so this was really disappointing for me. Almost everyone else enjoyed this, so this is obviously a me thing. That being said, I'm still looking forward to reading the next two stories.
February 12, 2024
Reseña breve:
+3
“People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.”
Segunda parte de la saga The Reckless Damned. No ha estado mal. Me ha enganchado y me ha gustado más que la primera parte. Los personajes son más carismáticos y me hacen mucha gracia como se complementan.
A por el siguiente que se avecinan curvas.
+3
“People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones.”
Segunda parte de la saga The Reckless Damned. No ha estado mal. Me ha enganchado y me ha gustado más que la primera parte. Los personajes son más carismáticos y me hacen mucha gracia como se complementan.
A por el siguiente que se avecinan curvas.
November 9, 2022
Oh, my freaking goodness this was everything I could ask for. Sky high tension, fated mates which got denied, enemies to lovers, hurt comfort, high heat, action. Yep, the whole package for me!
The series are about four demon brothers, estranged from hell.
In the previous story, about demon Cal and his human Oscar, we already met Harlow and Bailey. Harlow is Cal’s younger brother and Bailey is Oscar’s best friend.
Meeting his fated mate, a huge guy he wanted to climb, made Harlow turn around and run, spread his wings, and gone he is. Pffff that was a shock. He isn’t ready for a mate. He a demon who loves to fuck around not ready to commit to one man. Ha! He tries everything but his dick got other plans, from now on be available for just one man.
Bailey is not different from Harlow, he doesn’t want a relationship. He could never have Harlow, because duh, look at the guy’s beauty.
Harlow is a firecracker, a twink, not someone who wants to dominate, something Bailey craves for. He can’t believe the guy has only eyes for him. Nobody had only eyes for him. Bailey is hurt before, he was never enough.
After an intense kiss with Harlow, Bailey is the one to run.
Rejected by his mate Harlow is heartbroken, he watches over him in the shadows, watch and protect.
“Yes. Love is always worth it.”
Besides their struggles, you could almost forget there’s an important story where the mage clan wants the key to a portal and start something irreversible.
And then…. Omfg oh-my-freaking-goodness, what follows is glorious, hurtful but glorious!! Just read it yourself, I’m not gonna say more.
The turmoil felt like a hurricane. All inner monologues made sense. A perfect dosed amount of hurt comfort was a great addition. The writing was stunning, smooth, explosive with high intensity, fast-paced passages, and some moments a tiny slower. The characters will blow your mind, possessive, protective, fun, and emotional.
The story moved hell, heaven and earth on their axis. Overall a super entertaining story with an AWESOME plot.
The series are about four demon brothers, estranged from hell.
In the previous story, about demon Cal and his human Oscar, we already met Harlow and Bailey. Harlow is Cal’s younger brother and Bailey is Oscar’s best friend.
Meeting his fated mate, a huge guy he wanted to climb, made Harlow turn around and run, spread his wings, and gone he is. Pffff that was a shock. He isn’t ready for a mate. He a demon who loves to fuck around not ready to commit to one man. Ha! He tries everything but his dick got other plans, from now on be available for just one man.
Bailey is not different from Harlow, he doesn’t want a relationship. He could never have Harlow, because duh, look at the guy’s beauty.
Harlow is a firecracker, a twink, not someone who wants to dominate, something Bailey craves for. He can’t believe the guy has only eyes for him. Nobody had only eyes for him. Bailey is hurt before, he was never enough.
After an intense kiss with Harlow, Bailey is the one to run.
Rejected by his mate Harlow is heartbroken, he watches over him in the shadows, watch and protect.
“Yes. Love is always worth it.”
Besides their struggles, you could almost forget there’s an important story where the mage clan wants the key to a portal and start something irreversible.
And then…. Omfg oh-my-freaking-goodness, what follows is glorious, hurtful but glorious!! Just read it yourself, I’m not gonna say more.
The turmoil felt like a hurricane. All inner monologues made sense. A perfect dosed amount of hurt comfort was a great addition. The writing was stunning, smooth, explosive with high intensity, fast-paced passages, and some moments a tiny slower. The characters will blow your mind, possessive, protective, fun, and emotional.
The story moved hell, heaven and earth on their axis. Overall a super entertaining story with an AWESOME plot.
November 13, 2022
****MAJOR SPOILER****:
I have "Major Character Death" tagged, but know that it is NOT permanent. It's only temporary and does NOT last. But it does happen, so be warned!
⭐︎ 4.5 Stars Rounded up! ⭐︎
I feel like this author read my last review where I said "things get wrapped up too easily" and took that to heart lmao.
The second brother to get his soulmate is Harlow, in the form of Oscar's best friend, Bailey. Only things don't go quite how they did for Cal and Oscar.
First Harlow runs, but then after a few weeks he gives in to accepting that he has a mate, which he never wanted before.
But then Bailey, who has his own issues, is scared to want anything serious, but just kissing Harlow once is enough for Bailey to know he'd want more with Harlow, and that scares him into running.
And he does it, for 6 months.
But they can't stay avoiding each other forever, and eventually they give in to seeing each other. Bailey is still scared to let his gaurd down, and for Harlow he feels summarily rejected, and doesn't want to push Bailey id that's not what he wants.
But they can't just avoid each other forever, so they want to try to be "friends." And with some good intentioned meddling from Oscar, the two really start their friendship, which leads to more, of course.
At first Bailey tries to have it just be "friends with benefits" because he doesn't want Harlow to leave him, and thinks he's protecting his heart by continuing to keep Harlow at arms length. But in the end, of course, all he's doing is hurting them both.
It takes a bit for Bailey to pull his head out of his ass, but once he does, it's great, and he also gets to learn the truth as well.
Where Cal rushed things with Oscar - giving him his mark without his consent, Oscar finding out they're demons really early, Harlow does the opposite.
He and Bailey really get to know each other and fall in love before Bailey even finds out about the whole demon and devil's mark thing. Even then, Harlow wants Bailey to be really sure before he does it, and so waits to give it to him.
Which, in a way...he maybe waits a little too long, and things happen. I won't say what, but the major spoiler is enough to give you guys an idea. But again, do NOT worry, it's only temporary!
Doesn't mean you probably won't be emotional as hell as it's happening, though! It was just mean, even though it was only for a bit!
This was so good overall. It took me a bit to get into Bailey and Harlow as a couple, but once I did, I was all in and I loved their chemistry, and the sex was top notch, as well as the romance.
My only small niggle, really, is that I really wanted
Otherwise, I adored this. I'm excited for Mori's book, although I kinda wanted Dagon's first, as we already know his LI and there's such sexual tension already there. We haven't even met Mori's yet. Although I'm sure it'll be great too.
So yeah, definite thumbs up from me. I loved this even more than the first one. Highly recommend this!
Can't wait for more! 😍🥰😘
My ratings for The Reckless Damned Series:
🔆 Devil's Mark: 4 Stars (my review)
🔆 Devil May Care: 4.5 Stars
🔆 Deal With the Devil: TBR
⭐︎ 4.5 Stars Rounded up! ⭐︎
I feel like this author read my last review where I said "things get wrapped up too easily" and took that to heart lmao.
The second brother to get his soulmate is Harlow, in the form of Oscar's best friend, Bailey. Only things don't go quite how they did for Cal and Oscar.
First Harlow runs, but then after a few weeks he gives in to accepting that he has a mate, which he never wanted before.
But then Bailey, who has his own issues, is scared to want anything serious, but just kissing Harlow once is enough for Bailey to know he'd want more with Harlow, and that scares him into running.
And he does it, for 6 months.
But they can't stay avoiding each other forever, and eventually they give in to seeing each other. Bailey is still scared to let his gaurd down, and for Harlow he feels summarily rejected, and doesn't want to push Bailey id that's not what he wants.
But they can't just avoid each other forever, so they want to try to be "friends." And with some good intentioned meddling from Oscar, the two really start their friendship, which leads to more, of course.
At first Bailey tries to have it just be "friends with benefits" because he doesn't want Harlow to leave him, and thinks he's protecting his heart by continuing to keep Harlow at arms length. But in the end, of course, all he's doing is hurting them both.
It takes a bit for Bailey to pull his head out of his ass, but once he does, it's great, and he also gets to learn the truth as well.
Where Cal rushed things with Oscar - giving him his mark without his consent, Oscar finding out they're demons really early, Harlow does the opposite.
He and Bailey really get to know each other and fall in love before Bailey even finds out about the whole demon and devil's mark thing. Even then, Harlow wants Bailey to be really sure before he does it, and so waits to give it to him.
Which, in a way...he maybe waits a little too long, and things happen. I won't say what, but the major spoiler is enough to give you guys an idea. But again, do NOT worry, it's only temporary!
Doesn't mean you probably won't be emotional as hell as it's happening, though! It was just mean, even though it was only for a bit!
This was so good overall. It took me a bit to get into Bailey and Harlow as a couple, but once I did, I was all in and I loved their chemistry, and the sex was top notch, as well as the romance.
My only small niggle, really, is that I really wanted
Otherwise, I adored this. I'm excited for Mori's book, although I kinda wanted Dagon's first, as we already know his LI and there's such sexual tension already there. We haven't even met Mori's yet. Although I'm sure it'll be great too.
So yeah, definite thumbs up from me. I loved this even more than the first one. Highly recommend this!
Can't wait for more! 😍🥰😘
My ratings for The Reckless Damned Series:
🔆 Devil's Mark: 4 Stars (my review)
🔆 Devil May Care: 4.5 Stars
🔆 Deal With the Devil: TBR
Read
November 9, 2022No rating , DNF at 8%. I was in the mood for a good PNR but this isn’t it for me.
The writing is quite good but the story has too much contemporary vibe.. Like, so far, the only thing hinting at paranormal was the fact that one of them was supposedly a demon. He didn’t act “demonish” (lol), the world building was practically inexistent -on the contrary, everything was very human like and contemporary real life. Also there was also too much talk about sex and fucking and clubs and vacations in Amsterdam and yeah.. the guys seemed shallow af.
The writing is quite good but the story has too much contemporary vibe.. Like, so far, the only thing hinting at paranormal was the fact that one of them was supposedly a demon. He didn’t act “demonish” (lol), the world building was practically inexistent -on the contrary, everything was very human like and contemporary real life. Also there was also too much talk about sex and fucking and clubs and vacations in Amsterdam and yeah.. the guys seemed shallow af.
March 12, 2023
I loved it so much!
Low and Bailey were just everything! I loved every single second of this book even the parts that made my heart ache! It just made the ending feel even better! And now I'm going onto the next because I am addicted to this series!
Low and Bailey were just everything! I loved every single second of this book even the parts that made my heart ache! It just made the ending feel even better! And now I'm going onto the next because I am addicted to this series!
November 6, 2023
✰4 stars✰
I recommend going and reading my reviews for the other books in this series starting with the first, since I’ve essentially bulldozed my way through because I couldn’t put them down.
Book 1 - Devil's Mark : review here
Book 2 - Devil May Care : this review
Book 3 - Deal With the Devil : review here
Book 4 - Luck of the Devil : review here
Sometimes all I need is to read about fated mates, demons and don't feel the need to ask questions.
Harlow had my heart from book one, and I knew, I just knew that he and Bailey were going to be mates.
The s*x was spicy, the romance was saccharine and cheesy but the vibe I was totally going for and it all just worked for me.
I was initially having a hard time vibing with Bailey because he was very against believing Harlow could ever want him. It went on for a long time and it was almost too far for me but I reminded myself that he’s hurting and doesn’t believe he’s worthy and in real life, yeah it would probably take that long to come around.
I really enjoyed this read and couldn’t wait to jump into the next!
Had I woken up this morning expecting to meet my soulmate? Fuck no.
I recommend going and reading my reviews for the other books in this series starting with the first, since I’ve essentially bulldozed my way through because I couldn’t put them down.
Book 1 - Devil's Mark : review here
Book 2 - Devil May Care : this review
Book 3 - Deal With the Devil : review here
Book 4 - Luck of the Devil : review here
Sometimes all I need is to read about fated mates, demons and don't feel the need to ask questions.
Harlow had my heart from book one, and I knew, I just knew that he and Bailey were going to be mates.
The s*x was spicy, the romance was saccharine and cheesy but the vibe I was totally going for and it all just worked for me.
I was initially having a hard time vibing with Bailey because he was very against believing Harlow could ever want him. It went on for a long time and it was almost too far for me but I reminded myself that he’s hurting and doesn’t believe he’s worthy and in real life, yeah it would probably take that long to come around.
I really enjoyed this read and couldn’t wait to jump into the next!
May 1, 2024
Harlow is so sassy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Harlow really stole the show in Book 1. I was speed reading book 1 to get to his book. I was so excited for Harlow and Bailey. I was a little disappointed in Bailey’s character though. He was so confident in book 1 that I was really looking forward to his character being a confident man in his bear-ness cause bears ARE hot. I completely understand that a bear with body image issues is pretty close to reality. I mean I’m a bear. But I was hoping Bailey would break the mold. Still really enjoyed their relationship and I’m really loving this series. Can’t wait to read the next book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Harlow really stole the show in Book 1. I was speed reading book 1 to get to his book. I was so excited for Harlow and Bailey. I was a little disappointed in Bailey’s character though. He was so confident in book 1 that I was really looking forward to his character being a confident man in his bear-ness cause bears ARE hot. I completely understand that a bear with body image issues is pretty close to reality. I mean I’m a bear. But I was hoping Bailey would break the mold. Still really enjoyed their relationship and I’m really loving this series. Can’t wait to read the next book.
March 12, 2024
I really enjoyed reading Devil may care, even more than the devils mark and I connected with the story and characters much better.
Bailey has a lot of insecurities so it took him awhile for him to overcome them and give his heart to Harlow however although it took a good portion of the book for this to happen for me it didn’t drag or make me bored which happens a lot.
I’m honestly loving this series of books.
Bailey has a lot of insecurities so it took him awhile for him to overcome them and give his heart to Harlow however although it took a good portion of the book for this to happen for me it didn’t drag or make me bored which happens a lot.
I’m honestly loving this series of books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2024
3.25/5 stars
Read
May 19, 2024Audio: 3 stars.. when either Joel Leslie or Dan Calley do Welsh accents, I am becoming to realize I don’t like them.
Audio: DNF @18%
Might be my mood, but I am not feeling it with either Harlow or Bailey and I’m bummed because I was looking forward to this book…
Oh well maybe I need a break from fluff and get something more intense? Idk we will see where my mood takes me.
Audio: DNF @18%
Might be my mood, but I am not feeling it with either Harlow or Bailey and I’m bummed because I was looking forward to this book…
Oh well maybe I need a break from fluff and get something more intense? Idk we will see where my mood takes me.
September 4, 2023
Oh Lark!! You didn't have to hurt my Harlow like that 😭. This was a emotional f'ing (surprise) punch in the gut!
A MM Paranormal romance b/w Demon & Human with a size difference & ALL THE FEELS. Omg, Harlow & Bailey, Devoured this in 8hrs!
Harlow is one of the (younger) "Princes of hell" demon brothers. He's an investor. Stylish, Spitfire, Twink & lethal but so patient & sweet with Bailey. I appreciate the brothers' bond so much 🥺. Oscar's as amazing here as H was in his story!
Bailey is a human PE teacher (dreams of more) & Oscar's best-friend. Due to bad dad & past ex-s, B has self-esteem/body issues, feels unworthy 🤧. A gentle Welsh giant, fellow marvel fan, cautious, caring & cuddly. I liked his mam!
While both were relationship averse, a soulmate connection changes all. Fear, Harlow got over that, but Bailey took more time. Gosh, I understood it yet HATED it!! Rejection, Heartbreak, Death (😭😭). As tragic as it's sweet! OMFG. Harlow is a better person than me, gosh I wanted to shake B & then hug him fierce. Finally good then another gut punch! Y'all be glad there's a HEA 'cause I was gonna start a riot for these too!!
As the 2 meet due to mutual friends, tentative friendship & marvel, push & pull, insecurities 🥺, hurt 😔, dream date 🥰, all truths (past + supes!) & more, ACTION 😈. Their relationship, gosh! H NEVER gave up on B, when B finally realised that & fought for em too, it's everything. Plus, Sexy how B wanted H to take charge (& more 👉🕳️ 😏). Love me a vers couple, so hot (+ Flying sex 🔥)!
The mages wanting help & ghasts trouble is the mystery & thrill. THAT CLIMAX 🤯 OMG. (Special thanks Ferry 🥰!). I'm so sad we didn't get to torture Blaise!!! The ending's sweet. So excited for Mori's book!
Story ratings: (Enjoyed 5+/5)
POV: 1st Person, Dual POV
1) The Characters & world: 4.7/5
2) The feels: 😳🙃😑😃☺️😏🥺🔥🤩😕😔😙😭😦😡🤧😆🥰
3) Story & relationship: 5/5
4) Sexy/Steamy scenes: 3/5
5) Levels: Highish Angst, so Cute, Highish Dark (Mental issues, Death & Paranormal killing stuff)
6) Writing style: 4.7/5
FB Page | Instagram | Bookbub | FB group
A MM Paranormal romance b/w Demon & Human with a size difference & ALL THE FEELS. Omg, Harlow & Bailey, Devoured this in 8hrs!
Harlow is one of the (younger) "Princes of hell" demon brothers. He's an investor. Stylish, Spitfire, Twink & lethal but so patient & sweet with Bailey. I appreciate the brothers' bond so much 🥺. Oscar's as amazing here as H was in his story!
Bailey is a human PE teacher (dreams of more) & Oscar's best-friend. Due to bad dad & past ex-s, B has self-esteem/body issues, feels unworthy 🤧. A gentle Welsh giant, fellow marvel fan, cautious, caring & cuddly. I liked his mam!
While both were relationship averse, a soulmate connection changes all. Fear, Harlow got over that, but Bailey took more time. Gosh, I understood it yet HATED it!! Rejection, Heartbreak, Death (😭😭). As tragic as it's sweet! OMFG. Harlow is a better person than me, gosh I wanted to shake B & then hug him fierce. Finally good then another gut punch! Y'all be glad there's a HEA 'cause I was gonna start a riot for these too!!
As the 2 meet due to mutual friends, tentative friendship & marvel, push & pull, insecurities 🥺, hurt 😔, dream date 🥰, all truths (past + supes!) & more, ACTION 😈. Their relationship, gosh! H NEVER gave up on B, when B finally realised that & fought for em too, it's everything. Plus, Sexy how B wanted H to take charge (& more 👉🕳️ 😏). Love me a vers couple, so hot (+ Flying sex 🔥)!
The mages wanting help & ghasts trouble is the mystery & thrill. THAT CLIMAX 🤯 OMG. (Special thanks Ferry 🥰!). I'm so sad we didn't get to torture Blaise!!! The ending's sweet. So excited for Mori's book!
Story ratings: (Enjoyed 5+/5)
POV: 1st Person, Dual POV
1) The Characters & world: 4.7/5
2) The feels: 😳🙃😑😃☺️😏🥺🔥🤩😕😔😙😭😦😡🤧😆🥰
3) Story & relationship: 5/5
4) Sexy/Steamy scenes: 3/5
5) Levels: Highish Angst, so Cute, Highish Dark (Mental issues, Death & Paranormal killing stuff)
6) Writing style: 4.7/5
FB Page | Instagram | Bookbub | FB group
September 3, 2024
Lots of potential but the vibes just weren’t it for me. Harlow lost a lot of his badass-ness from the previous book and Bailey just really didn’t have much personality at all.
November 2, 2022
To say I was excited for Harlow's book is an understatement. After having met him in Devil's Mark I knew I needed his story ASAP. I mean, a sassy twink of a demon who powers up from lust and is bloodthirsty AF in fights? Sign me up! The fact that his fated turns out to be Oscar's bestie? Even better! Well it was, once Bailey got his head out of his ass and told his insecurities to fuck off.
Bailey's self esteem at the start of this book was not great. He'd been verbally beaten down and left too many times for it not to take a hit. Unfortunately, this fact is whats to blame for the major drama in the beginning of Harlow and Baileys courtship. Every time Bailey hurt Harlow I wanted to smack him upside the head. I HATED seeing him dull Harlow's shine. This went on long enough that I was very close to hating Bailey as well. I know the man is insecure, but how can you make my Harlow baby cry? Just no!
"Bailey had the power to destroy me like no one else on Earth, in Heaven, or in Hell.
And that fucking terrified me."
Thankfully Bailey finally got with the program and realized what was right in front of him. I think finding out that Harlow was a demon and he was his fated mate actually helped the situation. If the two of them were mates, that was proof that Harlow would never leave him. If they bonded, Bailey would always know and feel the love Harlow had for him at all times. If that didn't put his insecurities to bed nothing would.
The steam factor in this one was hot!! I enjoyed all the brotherly banter moments and how they always stood by each other in moments of need. Dagon is another one who needs to pull his head from his derriere and face his fate, but since Mori's book is next, I have a feeling he's not quite ready to admit it. Plot wise there are some strange things going on which I am guessing will be explored more in the next book. I can't freaking wait for more of these crazy demons!
Bailey's self esteem at the start of this book was not great. He'd been verbally beaten down and left too many times for it not to take a hit. Unfortunately, this fact is whats to blame for the major drama in the beginning of Harlow and Baileys courtship. Every time Bailey hurt Harlow I wanted to smack him upside the head. I HATED seeing him dull Harlow's shine. This went on long enough that I was very close to hating Bailey as well. I know the man is insecure, but how can you make my Harlow baby cry? Just no!
"Bailey had the power to destroy me like no one else on Earth, in Heaven, or in Hell.
And that fucking terrified me."
Thankfully Bailey finally got with the program and realized what was right in front of him. I think finding out that Harlow was a demon and he was his fated mate actually helped the situation. If the two of them were mates, that was proof that Harlow would never leave him. If they bonded, Bailey would always know and feel the love Harlow had for him at all times. If that didn't put his insecurities to bed nothing would.
The steam factor in this one was hot!! I enjoyed all the brotherly banter moments and how they always stood by each other in moments of need. Dagon is another one who needs to pull his head from his derriere and face his fate, but since Mori's book is next, I have a feeling he's not quite ready to admit it. Plot wise there are some strange things going on which I am guessing will be explored more in the next book. I can't freaking wait for more of these crazy demons!
Read
December 5, 2023DNF’d at 40%.
Not sure if this “did not finish” rating is forever, or just for now, but ultimately I’m giving up this time. I thought the first one was okay and was hoping to connect better with this sequel. I did not.
Still a huge fan of Lark Taylor’s rockstar romance series. This one just wasn’t for me!
Not sure if this “did not finish” rating is forever, or just for now, but ultimately I’m giving up this time. I thought the first one was okay and was hoping to connect better with this sequel. I did not.
Still a huge fan of Lark Taylor’s rockstar romance series. This one just wasn’t for me!
November 11, 2022
3.5 stars. Would've been 4 if not for the overload of insecurity from Bailey. It was a bit much.
October 29, 2022
Wanted: A gorgeous demon to mark me. All genders welcome. Androgyny preferred. Wings required.
Quick note - In the blurb, it says that this book can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading Devil's Mark first. The reasons why these 4 demons have been living topside, the explanation behind what it means to mark someone and the intricacies of the bond created afterwards were explained in detail throughout Oscar and Cal's story. I wouldn't have wanted to go into this one without those pieces of backstory or knowing how it was all connected. Plus I loved that book so it's a win-win in my opinion.
Harlow was my favorite character in Devil's Mark and I couldn't wait to find out why meeting Oscar's BFF, Bailey, turned such a sassy and outgoing demon into a less than shiny sad sack. I couldn't imagine a situation in which Bailey would reject Harlow, being that he was 100% Bailey's type, but it was obvious that he had and I needed answers.
Poor Bailey had so many self esteem issues. At times his self-deprecating inner monologue exhausted me and then I'd feel like a real jerk because god knows I have my fair share of insecurities too and am more than aware of the negative impacts they can have on a person's life and the decisions they make. Bailey thought Harlow was too good for him, that he was heartbreak waiting to happen. In the end, Harlow would be another name on his list of people who had walked away from him and that scared Bailey enough to keep him at arms length. I both loved and hated this because it led to a lot of push and pull that, at times, made me want to smack Bailey. Thankfully there were enough voices of reason in his life to do the smacking for me.
Harlow wasn't looking or hoping for a mate. He was very much enjoying taste testing every flavor on the menu at The Closet and felt no need to experience the bond he saw (sometimes a little too closely) between Oscar and Cal. But meeting Bailey flipped everything upside down and suddenly his scope narrowed to the one person he wanted and couldn't have. I loved Harlow so much. He was incredibly patient with Bailey, putting himself out there just to get rejected and pushed away again and again. I kept getting so angry on his behalf. Sure he was stalker-ish and had some questionable ideas regarding boundaries, but he was putting in some serious effort with very little return on investment. My sweet, snarky demon deserved better.
I loved the slow burn, friends to lovers pace of this story. However, once Bailey and Harlow got together, things began to move very fast and then went completely bananas. Like the first book, there was a threat lingering in the background that kept me on my toes and set the stage for what's to come next. I really enjoyed that lack of resolution because it's obviously building up to something big and I can't wait to see what it is. Also, every scene with the brothers together made me laugh, especially when it resulted in one of them "dying". And Cal and Oscar...ugh. It was like there was no one else in the room, maybe the world, when they were together. So many cuddles!
I know Mori is up next (yay!) but my mind can't help skipping ahead to whatever is going on between Dagon and Dimitri. To say that I'm committed to and excited about the rest of this series would be an understatement. These sons of Satan are living rent free in my heart and I want to see them all get their HEA's.
*Thank you to Lark Taylor for providing me with this ARC. This is my honest and unbiased review.
Quick note - In the blurb, it says that this book can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading Devil's Mark first. The reasons why these 4 demons have been living topside, the explanation behind what it means to mark someone and the intricacies of the bond created afterwards were explained in detail throughout Oscar and Cal's story. I wouldn't have wanted to go into this one without those pieces of backstory or knowing how it was all connected. Plus I loved that book so it's a win-win in my opinion.
Harlow was my favorite character in Devil's Mark and I couldn't wait to find out why meeting Oscar's BFF, Bailey, turned such a sassy and outgoing demon into a less than shiny sad sack. I couldn't imagine a situation in which Bailey would reject Harlow, being that he was 100% Bailey's type, but it was obvious that he had and I needed answers.
Poor Bailey had so many self esteem issues. At times his self-deprecating inner monologue exhausted me and then I'd feel like a real jerk because god knows I have my fair share of insecurities too and am more than aware of the negative impacts they can have on a person's life and the decisions they make. Bailey thought Harlow was too good for him, that he was heartbreak waiting to happen. In the end, Harlow would be another name on his list of people who had walked away from him and that scared Bailey enough to keep him at arms length. I both loved and hated this because it led to a lot of push and pull that, at times, made me want to smack Bailey. Thankfully there were enough voices of reason in his life to do the smacking for me.
Harlow wasn't looking or hoping for a mate. He was very much enjoying taste testing every flavor on the menu at The Closet and felt no need to experience the bond he saw (sometimes a little too closely) between Oscar and Cal. But meeting Bailey flipped everything upside down and suddenly his scope narrowed to the one person he wanted and couldn't have. I loved Harlow so much. He was incredibly patient with Bailey, putting himself out there just to get rejected and pushed away again and again. I kept getting so angry on his behalf. Sure he was stalker-ish and had some questionable ideas regarding boundaries, but he was putting in some serious effort with very little return on investment. My sweet, snarky demon deserved better.
I loved the slow burn, friends to lovers pace of this story. However, once Bailey and Harlow got together, things began to move very fast and then went completely bananas. Like the first book, there was a threat lingering in the background that kept me on my toes and set the stage for what's to come next. I really enjoyed that lack of resolution because it's obviously building up to something big and I can't wait to see what it is. Also, every scene with the brothers together made me laugh, especially when it resulted in one of them "dying". And Cal and Oscar...ugh. It was like there was no one else in the room, maybe the world, when they were together. So many cuddles!
I know Mori is up next (yay!) but my mind can't help skipping ahead to whatever is going on between Dagon and Dimitri. To say that I'm committed to and excited about the rest of this series would be an understatement. These sons of Satan are living rent free in my heart and I want to see them all get their HEA's.
*Thank you to Lark Taylor for providing me with this ARC. This is my honest and unbiased review.
October 27, 2022
Thank you Lark Taylor for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
4.5 stars
It was a beautiful read. I loved the bond between them. I have to say that they both were so stupid, but I'm glad in the end they got together.
The plot was engaging. Bailey's friendship with Oscar was amazing. There was a lot of push/pull, which I'm definitely not a fan of. But it was so cute when they got together.
I didn't expected that plot twist at all. That was written so amazing. The last part emotional af. Their relationship was perfect. I loved both of them so much. Low's little insecurities are written so well.
“I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—demons behave worse than the teenagers we teach.”
Cute 💀
He slumped against the window, pouting. “I can’t physically hurt anyone who has been a prick to you in the past.”
🤭
4.5 stars
It was a beautiful read. I loved the bond between them. I have to say that they both were so stupid, but I'm glad in the end they got together.
The plot was engaging. Bailey's friendship with Oscar was amazing. There was a lot of push/pull, which I'm definitely not a fan of. But it was so cute when they got together.
I didn't expected that plot twist at all. That was written so amazing. The last part emotional af. Their relationship was perfect. I loved both of them so much. Low's little insecurities are written so well.
“I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—demons behave worse than the teenagers we teach.”
Cute 💀
He slumped against the window, pouting. “I can’t physically hurt anyone who has been a prick to you in the past.”
🤭
September 15, 2023
Tropes: demon/human, size difference, found family, paranormal romance
Feels: 4/5
Steam*: 4/5
Kinks: some toys, sex in risky places
Angst: low/medium
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: self esteem issues, toxic ex, temporary character death
Bailey is 34 and a gym teacher. He is Oscar's best friend. Oscar was the main character of the last book. Bailey has been damaged by his dad, his ex, and a bunch of others that have hurt him in the past. He's an athletic guy but he's always been big and he's got a lot of self-esteem issues. He's never had luck with relationships so he's turned himself into a fuckboy so that he can protect himself.
Harlow is Oscar's other best friend, the brother of Oscar's mate. Harlow is a demon, a son of Lucifer. He's a tiny firecracker of a demon. Very powerful and violent. Harlow and Bailey meet through Oscar. And Harlow realizes that Bailey is his mate. But Bailey is not open to a relationship, he's too afraid of being left so he does the leaving. Will Bailey take a risk on Harlow?
I really enjoyed this book. 4.5 stars. I love how much personality the characters have. The relationships that they all have with each other are such fun to watch. They know each other so well and they know exactly what buttons to press. They are supportive of each other, they challenge each other, they give each other s*** and laugh at each other. Oscar has some great funny one-liners. There's a lot of great moments of humor sprinkled throughout. And it was a good story plot wise. I cried for a long time after page 285, Lark is evil.
I also love how Lark keep slipping in mentions of other authors' books. It just gives me a blast of Serotonin. Bookworm and fan in me loves the book love.
Some notable moments: (I had so many. I'm holding myself back here)
"He smirked. “The fact you’re burrowing into it like a kitten suggests otherwise.” I ignored him as I drew the coat tighter around me, imagining it was Bailey’s arms instead. Could I maybe persuade him to let me keep it? If I couldn’t have the real thing, this could be a poor man’s substitute. I’d have to return it occasionally to keep his scent fresh, but it’d totally be worth it."
""I want to do something that will prove to him that I’m in it for the long haul. That I see and love him for exactly who he is. That I want him to tell me everything about himself because nothing he could tell me will make me walk away again. And for that, I need to get Oscar to forgive me…because right now, I can barely think, and I need him to tell me which ideas are shit and which aren’t.” “That’s easy,” Oscar’s voice piped up from behind me. “If you thought of it, it’s probably shit.” I twisted around to see my best friend with an eyebrow warily raised. Silently, I held out my offerings. He perked up when he peered into the paper bag. “I find your apology acceptable.”"
"“I figured it was better to ask for forgiveness than permission. But if you don’t want to live with me, that’s fine. Totally cool. We can buy your mam her own place, or you know, find her somewhere to rent. I won’t be upset. It’s not like I’d spend any nights we were apart camping on your roof. Nope. I can cope if you don’t want to live with me. It’ll be fine. Great even.”'
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
Feels: 4/5
Steam*: 4/5
Kinks: some toys, sex in risky places
Angst: low/medium
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: self esteem issues, toxic ex, temporary character death
Bailey is 34 and a gym teacher. He is Oscar's best friend. Oscar was the main character of the last book. Bailey has been damaged by his dad, his ex, and a bunch of others that have hurt him in the past. He's an athletic guy but he's always been big and he's got a lot of self-esteem issues. He's never had luck with relationships so he's turned himself into a fuckboy so that he can protect himself.
Harlow is Oscar's other best friend, the brother of Oscar's mate. Harlow is a demon, a son of Lucifer. He's a tiny firecracker of a demon. Very powerful and violent. Harlow and Bailey meet through Oscar. And Harlow realizes that Bailey is his mate. But Bailey is not open to a relationship, he's too afraid of being left so he does the leaving. Will Bailey take a risk on Harlow?
I really enjoyed this book. 4.5 stars. I love how much personality the characters have. The relationships that they all have with each other are such fun to watch. They know each other so well and they know exactly what buttons to press. They are supportive of each other, they challenge each other, they give each other s*** and laugh at each other. Oscar has some great funny one-liners. There's a lot of great moments of humor sprinkled throughout. And it was a good story plot wise. I cried for a long time after page 285, Lark is evil.
I also love how Lark keep slipping in mentions of other authors' books. It just gives me a blast of Serotonin. Bookworm and fan in me loves the book love.
Some notable moments: (I had so many. I'm holding myself back here)
"He smirked. “The fact you’re burrowing into it like a kitten suggests otherwise.” I ignored him as I drew the coat tighter around me, imagining it was Bailey’s arms instead. Could I maybe persuade him to let me keep it? If I couldn’t have the real thing, this could be a poor man’s substitute. I’d have to return it occasionally to keep his scent fresh, but it’d totally be worth it."
""I want to do something that will prove to him that I’m in it for the long haul. That I see and love him for exactly who he is. That I want him to tell me everything about himself because nothing he could tell me will make me walk away again. And for that, I need to get Oscar to forgive me…because right now, I can barely think, and I need him to tell me which ideas are shit and which aren’t.” “That’s easy,” Oscar’s voice piped up from behind me. “If you thought of it, it’s probably shit.” I twisted around to see my best friend with an eyebrow warily raised. Silently, I held out my offerings. He perked up when he peered into the paper bag. “I find your apology acceptable.”"
"“I figured it was better to ask for forgiveness than permission. But if you don’t want to live with me, that’s fine. Totally cool. We can buy your mam her own place, or you know, find her somewhere to rent. I won’t be upset. It’s not like I’d spend any nights we were apart camping on your roof. Nope. I can cope if you don’t want to live with me. It’ll be fine. Great even.”'
*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2022
I don't know where this author has been but I'm so glad Lark Taylor is writing, because this series is just amazing and I'm so so impressed with the calibre of everything being that this is only her second book!
Harlow is a demon, brother to Cal from the first book, Devil's Mark. I absolutely adore him - he's brash, sassy, has the best lines, and stole the show in the first book.
Enter Bailey - Oscar's best friend and the man that Harlow realizes is his soulmate. But he's got horrible self esteem and body image, and is afraid to love after past relationships and experiences have left him alone and hurt.
Their road to a HEA isn't easy - OMG so much emotion here, but it's worth it. I also have to give kudos to Lark for making me not totally hate the whole lack of communication between the two - which is a big pet peeve of mine. Harlow has his own secrets, and Bailey just won't TALK to him and tell him his fears. There was a bit of that push/pull, one step forward and two steps back, to the start of their friendship. But with a little bit of meddling help from their friends and family, they get on the right road to more and so Bailey can see that Harlow just won't up and leave him or get tired of him.
I'll keep this spoiler free - but basically this book took me through so so many emotions and I couldn't stop reading.
Also! I'm SO ready for Dagon's story - OMG OMG and I can see she's gonna make us wait to the end for his lol because Mori's story is up next. I can't wait for him to find his mate - he's the one of the four brothers who DOES want to find his mate, so I can't wait to see who fate has chosen for him.
Basically - I loved this book, I love this series, and this author is pretty much an auto-buy for me at this point. Excellent story telling, great chemistry and steam between the MCs, and great characters I'm totally invested in. Cannot wait for book 3!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Harlow is a demon, brother to Cal from the first book, Devil's Mark. I absolutely adore him - he's brash, sassy, has the best lines, and stole the show in the first book.
Enter Bailey - Oscar's best friend and the man that Harlow realizes is his soulmate. But he's got horrible self esteem and body image, and is afraid to love after past relationships and experiences have left him alone and hurt.
Their road to a HEA isn't easy - OMG so much emotion here, but it's worth it. I also have to give kudos to Lark for making me not totally hate the whole lack of communication between the two - which is a big pet peeve of mine. Harlow has his own secrets, and Bailey just won't TALK to him and tell him his fears. There was a bit of that push/pull, one step forward and two steps back, to the start of their friendship. But with a little bit of meddling help from their friends and family, they get on the right road to more and so Bailey can see that Harlow just won't up and leave him or get tired of him.
I'll keep this spoiler free - but basically this book took me through so so many emotions and I couldn't stop reading.
Also! I'm SO ready for Dagon's story - OMG OMG and I can see she's gonna make us wait to the end for his lol because Mori's story is up next. I can't wait for him to find his mate - he's the one of the four brothers who DOES want to find his mate, so I can't wait to see who fate has chosen for him.
Basically - I loved this book, I love this series, and this author is pretty much an auto-buy for me at this point. Excellent story telling, great chemistry and steam between the MCs, and great characters I'm totally invested in. Cannot wait for book 3!
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
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