I fell in love with this from the start. Maybe stole my heart quick with her brash, take charge attitude and Alexsei, well...where can I find my own! It was a joy watching these two clash and conquer each others hearts. More please!

Unraveled is the first book in the Whiskey Sharp series Lauren Dane. Maybe Dolan is independent and free-spirited since leaving home at sixteen. Whiskey Sharp, Seattle's sexy vintage-styled barbershop and whiskey bar, gave her a job and a reason to put down roots. Cutting hair by day, losing herself drumming in a punk rock band by night, she's got it good. But a longtime crush that turns into a hot, edgy night with brooding and bearded Alexsei Petrov makes it a hell of a lot better. Maybe's blunt attitude and carnal smile hooked Alexsei from the start. Protecting people is part of his nature and Maybe is meant to be his even if she doesn't know it. Yet. He can't help himself from wanting to protect and care for her. But Maybe's fiery independent spirit means pushing back when Alexsei goes too far. Still, he's not afraid to do a little pushing of his own to get what he wants her in his life, and his bed, for good. Maybe's more intoxicating than all the liquor on his shelf and he's not afraid to ride the blade's edge to bind her to him.

Unraveled starts as a slow burn, and quickly ramps up to so much more. Maybe and Alexsei were instantly attracted, but both avoiding the complications and issues that perusing each other could cause, until Maybe has had enough and decides it would be worth any backlash. I loved the journey of their relationship, and how much insight readers get into both characters, and the secondary characters that surround them. Maybe is a complicated character, and her family issues are a powerful aspect of the story. I love watching her stand up to everyone for everyone, but it broke my heart when she had trouble standing up against her parents. I loved the combination of protectiveness and respect that Alexsei shows towards the women in his life, and how thoughtful his is. The fact that both characters are strong, and have their own share of history makes them compelling and real. The banter and care they share was extremely well done. Maybe's family problems coming to roost was heart breaking, but left me wanting to know more. There has to be more, right? While I know there are horrible people, and parents, out there I hate to think about this type of dynamic happening in real life. The story stuck with me well after finishing the book, and I think it will be just as engaging and compelling for other readers as well.

Unraveled is an awesome start to the series, and has me chomping at the bit for more. Thankfully, I already have a copy via Netgalley on my Kindle waiting for me. The hard part will be not reading it right now, because that will make the third one seem so far away- and I know I will want more.

Lauren Dane is an auto-read for me. Always! I can truly got lost in whatever world she has created for her book. Exciting is an understatement!

Maybe Dolan (yes, that's her name, and there's an explanation for it in the book) is a firecracker. I really liked her character. She rambles, but it's not annoying. It's more enchanting, I think. She knows what she wants. She's independent, but under her "go get em' " exterior, there's a lot of vulnerability. Her father is a real jerk. He's emotionally abusive. Maybe puts up with it for a few reasons, but it was hard reading sometimes.

Alexsei Petrov is a sinfully sexy Russian! He owns the barbershop, Whiskey Sharp. He's Maybe's boss and friend. Over the course of time that friendship morphs into hot nights and filthy whispered sweet nothings! Yum!

I adored these two as a couple. Alexsei wants to protect and coddle her, but Maybe is too independent to let him take over. There's a few funny disagreements between them. However, said funny disagreements usually turn into sweaty monkey sex...yay!

There's lots of family moments in this book. Alexsei has a fairly large and boisterous Russian family who love to interfere in a good-natured way. Maybe is not use to this. Her family is dysfunctional at best. I love books that have quirky families with lots of banter! The family have decided that Maybe is one of them, so she has little choice but to join in on all their loud gatherings.

This book, like all other Lauren Dane titles has stellar writing. But the one thing that felt a little off for me was the lack of conflict or a climax where their relationship is either going to make it or not. It just all felt too easy. I love those dark moments when I'm holding my breath to see what happens to the hero and heroine. That didn't happen here. There was a ton of conflict with Maybe and her parents. Perhaps, Ms. Dane thought that was enough for poor Maybe to deal with. I still loved the book though!

This was a great start to what promises to be a phenomenal series!


Rating: 4 Stars (A)

I was disappointed that this book wasn’t as good as tje Petal Georgia books. This was extreme angsty.

I really like Lauren Dane, when I first started reading romance she was one of the few white authors including heroines of color into her series and I really liked the interview she gave on Smart Podcasts, Trashy Books about female friendships in romance but, woo, this romance just did not work for me. Dane had this tendency to have these dense emotional internal dialogues that straight up bored me at some moments.

I love some good competency porn and was really hoping for some rich details about how this whiskey bar and barber shop operates but the barbershop is treated somewhat incidentally. We don’t know how or why Alexsei decided to open the shop or get into how the other employees feel about this workplace relationship. In fact as I’m re-reading the ARC for the review I realize they never even mention Maybe having a barbershop license or why she can cut men’s hair.


What almost turned this book into a DNF for me was the conflict between Maybe’s psychotically emotionally abusive father. For some reason the book doesn’t reveal Maybe’s sister’s entire backstory until 43% so I won’t say too much, but basically her Dad is mad at Maybe for taking her older sister away from them. He was just straight up evil to Maybe and there are several scenes of him being verbally abusive towards her and after a while it wasn’t enjoyable to read and the scenes never lead to anything.


All that said Dane does deliver on what she preaches about female friendships, there is a lot of female characters checking in on each other and Maybe and her sister have a great relationship but I think Dane is more interested in her character’s deep emotional inventories as a writer than I am as a reader.

The first book in the Whiskey Sharp series went a little sour for me and not in a good way.

Lauren Dane launches her Whiskey Sharp series with Unraveled, a sweet and sexy tale about dark and brooding Russian Alexsei Petrov and independent and free-spirited Maybe Dolan.

After a year of hiring Maybe to work at his vintage-styled barbershop, Alexsei is ready to take their attraction to fruition, but even though Maybe has crushed on the delicious Russian, her independence and natural inclination to put others before herself makes his desire to protect her and make her his a bit of a challenge. But hot nights make getting to a place where they find a balance a very enjoyable journey.

Both the main characters were equally appealing. Maybe, with all her issues was lively, warm and passionate caring for others, particularly her older sister, with fierce determination. Alexsei doesn’t just exude confidence and sexiness, he’s a family man whose tendencies to dominate and guard never overwhelm the Maybe’s free-spirited nature and finds her generosity absolutely intoxicating. The supporting characters were equally interesting and I can’t wait to read more about them, and although at times they threatened to overcome the main plot, Dane preserved the focus on the main couple.

Unraveled is book #1 of the Whiskey Sharp series by Lauren Dane. It is an engaging contemporary romance, told in third person from both points of view with a happy ending.

I was so excited to start this series. First of all, it’s a new Lauren Dane contemporary and that alone had me salivating for it. And second, the setting for this sounded just so cool and sexy! It’s a vintage barber shop that turns into a whiskey bar for happy hour basically. How cool and fun?!

From the beginning I loved the atmosphere of this story and I loved the setting just as much as I was expecting to. Another thing that was an immediate hit with me is the fact that Maybe and Alexsei work together so it’s kind of a workplace romance. What rubbed me the wrong way from almost page one, though, was the heroine’s name. No, I just couldn’t get behind Maybe. I know it’s a nickname and there’s an explanation for it, but everytime her name is mentioned it would throw me off and got on my nerves. As much as I was trying to not let it bother me.

I really liked Maybe’s bubbly personality. She won’t stop talking and comes across as a genuinely nice person, so I was a fan of that. The story opens with Maybe getting the job at Whiskey Sharp and quickly fast forwards a couple of years so I feel like I was also missing the struggle and build up of the connection. By the time we get to see what’s going on I felt like it was almost a given that they were going to work out from the first time they touched and I found it made the story a little boring in terms of the romance.

There’s some added tensions from both of their pasts, some of it while serious I found annoying because Maybe had let things go too far without speaking up so she really made me want to slap her around a bit. But at the same time I also felt bad for her situation and how she had to grow up and it made me appreciate the new family she has and the support system she was able to find.

One of my favorite things about this story, and something that Ms. Dane does very well time and time again, is the feeling of family. I loved Alexsei’s family, his meddling aunt, just about everyone! And then there was also Rada, the ex fiance, who I have a feeling is being molded to be the Raven of this series. So I was ok with feeling annoyed by her character and I’m looking forward to seeing her character developed more throughout the series.

Overall, UNRAVELED felt like a slow moving and easy romance. The main couple has a nice chemistry but I never felt like it spiked for me and I maybe even found it to be dragging. But I was interested in the story and ultimately will continue reading this series. I’m looking forward to the next book about Maybe’s sister.

So difficult to complete. I found it extremely difficult to relate to the characters

This was a new series and I loved it. I kept getting confused with the main character's name, Maybe. I kept reading it wrong and until I got used to it I had to reread sentences over and over. I loved the concept of Whiskey Sharp. It really sounded like a place I would like to hang out at for a drink or two. Especially if I got to stare at some sexy Russians! Alexsi and Maybe we're an awesome couple. I'm looking forward to more.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

Overall Whisky sharp was an okay read for me. A lot of the story was the back story of side characters I wished the story was more focused on the main couple Maybe and Alexsei. I did like how the Maybe and Alexsei romance progressed throughout the book it was more realistic. 3/5 stars.

Wow, the premise behind Whiskey Sharp: Unraveled called to my reviewer’s heart like a siren. A badass, take-no-crap, smart, sexy female lead and the man who’s damn lucky to have her in her life is a dream read for me. And yes, Maybe Dolan is all that and more. And Alexsei Petrov is her perfect match in his broody, gruff, sexy Russian glory. And while I greatly enjoyed their slow burn romance, there were parts of the story that just didn’t quite work for me.

I would have loved a flashback of two years ago and what led Maybe and her sister, Rachel, to Seattle. As well as some flashbacks to Maybe’s teen years and the tumultuous relationship with her parents. There are so many lingering questions to what is really happening with their parents, so many things left to explain. That and the story surrounding Alexei’s ex pulled too much attention away from the heart of the romance between Alexsei and Maybe and greatly affected my full enjoyment of Unraveled.

The sharpest ache comes from wanting what you think you can't have

Maybe Dolan has lived independent, free-spirited and unattached since leaving home at sixteen. Whiskey Sharp, Seattle's sexy vintage-styled barbershop and whiskey bar, gave her a job and a reason to put down roots. Cutting hair by day, losing herself drumming in a punk rock band by night, she's got it good.

But a longtime crush that turns into a hot, edgy night with brooding and bearded Alexsei Petrov makes it a hell of a lot better.

Maybe's blunt attitude and carnal smile hooked Alexsei from the start. Protecting people is part of his nature and Maybe is meant to be his even if she doesn't know it. Yet. He can't help himself from wanting to protect and care for her.

But Maybe's fiery independent spirit means pushing back when Alexsei goes too far. Still, he's not afraid to do a little pushing of his own to get what he wants her in his life, and his bed, for good. Maybe's more intoxicating than all the liquor on his shelf and he's not afraid to ride the blade's edge to bind her to him."

Review:

I have never met a Lauren Dane book that I did not like, but this one propelled itself right near the top of my favorite Lauren Dane books.

I love the difference of the book, everything was fresh for me. The heroine's name being Maybe was one of the first things that was different. Alexsei and Maybe work in a barber shop that also has a bar, how cool would that be??? Alexsei is Russian, but is not the typical Russian mobster like most books, he was sent away young to escape that fate. I loved his big, loving family, who takes in everyone. Maybe, I felt so bad for her, so wanted to kick her parents a**es. I am glad she had her sister and her aunt and uncle. Seriously though reading this makes me feel like I am part of the family or I want to be part of the family. Of course Maybe and Alexsei had obstacles to overcome, but it was done smart and made sense for the characters and the story. Now, this is the first in a new series, so get in on the ground floor and if you have not read any books by Ms. Dane, I highly recommend her work.

4.5Stars
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book provided by the publisher.*

Alexei Petrov is a Russian immigrant living in Seattle amidst his extended family. Maybe Dolan is an assertive young woman in need of a job and is determined that Alexsei's barber shop will benefit from having her on staff. After two years, she's the only barber allowed to cut Alexsei's hair and a valued member of the Whiskey Sharp team.

After breaking off his engagement, Alexsei has spent several months sowing his wild oats and Maybe has realised just how attractive she finds her boss. Little does she know that Alexsei feels exactly the same way and has decided that he needs to make a move or risk losing his chance.

The dialogue between the characters is sharp and witty and there are some moments that are laugh out loud. Equally, there are moments that would rip out your heart.

Both Alexsei and Maybe have family issues that they deal with throughout their story which helps to set the scene for what I hope are future additions to this series.

Alexsei has given me the opportunity to develop a huge crush on Russian alpha males and Maybe is the epitome of a kickass female who displays fierce protective instinct for those she love.

A definite winner from Lauren Dane.

Lauren Dane begins her new series Whiskey Sharp with the Sisters Maybe and Rachel Dolan. This is Maybe’s story. And it features her love story with sexy and sensual Alexsei Petrov. Actually this story features him, the sisters and their small group of friends and Alexsei’s family in this emotionally packed new series. In the first book,Unraveled you will fall in love with Maybe and you will feel for her. Maybe is independent, outspoken and protective. She protects her sister fiercely and doesn’t have a problem speaking her mind. Alexsei is a gentleman, family oriented, protective and a big ole teddy bear. Alexsei will do anything to protect his Maybe. Maybe ‘s life has been so angst ridden as the hated youngest child. Her parents use their words to cut their child so violently and wound her to the point that she bleeds out without no one being the wiser. But Maybe is a survivor – she was able to pick heself back up and make her way due to the love she was given by her aunt and uncle. There are things about her father that make me very uneasy. I do not want to say because it brings spoilers out but I would suggest definitely reading and drawing your own conclusions about the man…he is pure evil in my mind. Thank Goodness for Alexsei. He is such a good man, giving support and love to show how much she is wanted and needed in his and his family’s life. Oh and the chemistry and steam between this couple is thru the roof insane hot. There is no added kink in the story but it is super spicy and hot. Also we get alittle of the older sister’s story which is the next book in the series so I cannot wait to read her story. Maybe then we will learn more about this dysfunctional family. This was a brilliant story and I can't wait for Vic and Rachel's book!!

My Rating: 4.7 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."

3.5 stars

I love everything that had to do with Maybe and Alexsei. They are wonderfully well-rounded characters, who are real people and highly relatable. I adore their interactions and the sizzling chemistry between them. Their journey to love was funny, sweet, and oh-so sexy. 4.5 stars.

I didn't love the storyline with the parents. It overpowered the book. They were hateful with no redeeming qualities whatsoever. Their abuse of Maybe was irrational and unforgiveable. I don’t like that in romance. Another thing I didn't like was the cliffhanger regarding said storyline. For this aspect of the book, I give 2.5 stars.

I love Lauren Dane. Her heroines are often badasses. I will follow this series, but I will have to see some changes in the way she handles the parents. I just want them to go away, to be honest.

This is the beginning book of Whiskey Sharp Series, called Unravelled. I really loved this book and have already pre ordered the next two!

Maybe Dolan, a bright energetic free spirit of a young woman, along with her older sister Rachel, who has been through unbearable circumstances, being kidnapped at the hands of a serial killer, have moved to a new house they are buying to help Rachel be safe and feel safe too. Unfortunately for Maybe, (her parents abused her so much while Rachel was perfect in their eyes) and for Rachel as well they do not want Maybe and Rachel together as they blame Maybe for Rachel not living with them.

Alexsei Petrov is an alpha male (with a whole bunch of family living next door to Maybe. He runs a successful Barber shop/bar and meets Maybe when his Aunt sends her to Alexsei's place of business to get a job. He agrees to try her out and she is so wonderful the whole place loves her.

Alexsei has split up with his fiancee and two years later he and Maybe decide to go out on a date. Their chemistry with each other is over the top but Alexei knows that if he tries to tell Maybe what to do it will push her away. He questions why she is so protective of her sister but does not say anything.

They become very close and then when Maybe's dad comes to Maybe and Rachel's home and starts yelling at Maybe that she is a loser keeping her sister from her parents, it becomes apparent there is much more going on than what has been said.

This book has a great plot, a great love story, and is filled with wonderful characters that will make you enjoy the book even more. I don't want to say much more and give away the end.

I gave this book 5 stars and can't wait to read the next books in this series!

Maybe and Alexsi were strong, passionate characters. I loved the friends to lovers aspect in this story. Maybe was a free independent spirited strong woman. Alexsi was a protective alpha male. A wonderful start to the series.

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.

WOW!
This is a great start to this new series and I can't wait for more!
I was hooked from the beginning and by the end I was trying to figure out how I could get adopted into the Orlova's family!
Maybe Dolan (What a great name!) is strong, spunky, protective and determined and I absolutely loved her!!
Alexsei Petrov is an alpha male personified and together they are magic.
This story flows through good times and bad and it will have you laughing, crying and fanning yourself from one minute to the next!

Lauren Dane brings readers another great romance full of captivating characters and thrilling suspense that held me hostage from the very beginning.

Maybe and Alexsei are strong, vibrant characters that grab attention and refuse to let go. The story has a steady even pace that keeps readers engaged with the characters as well building anticipation for that happily ever after. The romance is heated with the sizzling attraction that burns between Maybe and Alexsei but that attraction may not be enough as Maybe has some past issues that are holding her back, ones that not only ensnare the reader but tugs at the reader’s heartstrings.

Anticipation and suspense builds throughout the story as more of Maybe and her sister’s past are revealed and the past comes back causing grief and mayhem. The story is quite emotional which adds depth and a realistic feel to the story as well as the characters and is quite full of interesting characters that make reader’s want to get to know them all.

The story is a standalone story as Maybe (by the way I love her name and the explanation for how she got it) and Alexsei get together but the suspense part that involves more characters is still going strong. Lauren Dane has a gift for bringing her stories to vivid life with great characters and strong settings that invite readers to visit again and again, so is it any wonder that I can’t wait to find out what happens next.