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.

4.5 stars

Sisters Maybe and Rachel Dolan and their small group of friends are very appealing, but it’s Alexsei Petrov’s family, the Orlovs, a boisterous, nosy, but loving family of Russian immigrants, and next door neighbors of the Dolan sisters, that really sucked me in. The matriarch of the family, Alexsei’s Aunt Irena, not only “adopts” the Dolan sisters into her home and family, but she sends Maybe to Whiskey Sharp, Alexsei’s upscale barbershop and whiskey bar for a job. Alexsei and Maybe have spent two years working together and building a solid friendship before taking their relationship to a romantic level. Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes, so I was totally onboard. I found Maybe impossible to resist. She’s friendly, chatty, funny, and fiercely protective of her older sister, Rachel. Rachel, a former FBI agent with a very intriguing and somewhat mysterious backstory, is key to Maybe’s story. Maybe’s determined cheerfulness is especially admirable considering her difficult childhood. The Dolan sisters’ parents add drama and conflict to the story, in the bes/worst possible way. As much as I love Maybe, Alexsei is just as appealing. He’s quiet, taciturn, kind of grouchy, but loyal, sweet, and protective of those he loves. He packs quite a punch. I kept picturing him dressed for work in his trousers, button down shirt with his sleeves rolled up and held in place with garters. Damn, Ms. Dane paints quite a picture! I want to go to Seattle, visit Whiskey Sharp, and sit drinking whiskey while watching sexy barbers with Russian accents go about their business. I know they’re not real and Whiskey Sharp doesn’t exist, but Ms. Dane makes me believe otherwise. Alexsei and Maybe are hot, sweet, and very funny. Their story, and their family and friends are very entertaining. I know this is one series I will be re-reading again and again.

Lauren Dane is one prolific author. She's one of those writers that if you're looking for a trope you can find it. Witches? Diablo Lake. Shifters? Diablo Lake and Cascadia Wolves. Rockers? Hurley Boys. Small Town? Petal Georgia. Menage? Err, there's a few actually but I'll go with Brown Family. My point is that she writes across genres and tropes and writes them all really well. I've read almost all of her works and I'd say about 90% of them worked for me and when an author has as much out there as Lauren Dan that's a really impressive stat!

Maybe Dolan is exactly the Lauren Dane heroine I LOVE - fiercely independent, outspoken, protective, vulnerable, and just kick-ass to sum it up. She's been on her own since she was 16 because her parents are completely and unequivocally horrible people. But she's managed to claw out a great life for herself and her older sister in a fantastic small town setting.

Alexsei Petrov and Maybe have been circling each other for a while, the two working together creating a nice tension in the air constantly. He has issues of his own with his immediate family but his extended family raised him in America and he's felt loved and included with quite a large family. While I enjoyed Alexsei and his hesitance in risking his friendship with Maybe and their work balance I couldn't help but cheer when Maybe took control of the situation and pretty much demand that they go out finally - evidence of her personality that I adored.

The two have a chemistry that sizzles off the page.  The author writes couples that feel so accurate to me - like I could meet them and hopefully become friends with them potentially next week. They balance each other perfectly and Lauren Dane's theme of 'found families' continues in this book. Which reminds me a little of Kit Rocha's books, I might be a sucker for that theme because some of my favorite books have that as a thread.

I really recommend this book for the sisterly bond, for the small town feel, and last but NOT least - the super hot couple!

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Reviewer: Melinda

Title: Whiskey Sharp: Unraveled

Author: Lauren Dane

Release Date: January 30, 2018

Jagged>/i> book #2 in the Whiskey Sharp Series is rich with yummy hotness as it is filled with family drama, with a touch of suspense. A brilliant dose of what Lauren Dane does best!

Vicktor Orlov has a tenderness about him with a deepness that I found utterly charming. He knows what Rachel Dolan’s story is, and yet he finds himself drawn to her more every day; not because he thinks she is weak, but because of her strength. The man is totally awed by this woman! Ms. Dane always delivers on giving us heroes that make us go all gooey inside.

Rachel Dolan has a past that haunts her in every day of her life. Rachel was an FBI agent who found herself captured by a mad man while she was chasing down a lead. Leaving her job, her then life behind Rachel finds some peace years later. Maybe, Rachel’s sister has helped 100 % with the healing. Both girls are touched by a troubled past with their parents. Maybe got the bad end as to where Rachel was their parents crowning glory or, so they thought. Things are about to get even more interesting with the Dolan sisters.

The sweet draw of chemistry between Vicktor and Rachel started over two years ago. It bloomed from Neighbor’s to friends. I enjoyed that Rachel states over and over about she is in it for the bread as much as everything else. *grins* They are ready to take their relationship to the next step. There are a few speed bumps along the way, but what they have is stronger.

The supporting characters are Vicktor’s family, Maybe (Rachel’s Sister) and Close Friends all ready to protect the Dolan sisters from their Monster of a father. Jagged is a captivating read with a lot of raw emotion. I will say there were a few on the edge of my seat moments with her parents/Dad, could the man be any more of a douche. Ms. Dane I am happy to see we will get Torn Cora’s story is next in the Whiskey Sharp Series next, I can’t wait.

Rated 5 Stilettos and a Recommended Read by Deb!

Lauren Dane is one of my favorite contemporary romance authors. I know what to expect every time I read one of her books. Unraveled gave me something new, and I wasn't that certain about it.

Maybe and Alexsei are very reflective of Ms. Dane's typical heroine and hero. The first half of the book flowed well, with Maybe revealing more and more of herself to her neighbors, The Orlovs, Alexsei's aunt and uncle. Maybe and Alexsei have intense chemistry, so there was no doubt they would get together -- and stay together for a while -- despite the road block of Alexsei's ex-girlfriend.

The story behind Maybe's nickname is a cute one; it came way later that I thought it should have. Granted, Alexsei has only every known her as Maybe, and there needs to be a legitimate reason to share that with the reader.

Maybe and her sister, Rachel, have not had an easy life, although Maybe accepted who her parents were long before Rachel does. That they still have a relationship with their parents -- Maybe trying for Rachel's sake -- is really confusing. Rachel will be the heroine of book 2, Jagged (March 2018), so maybe more of her trauma will be revealed. Based upon how their parents repeatedly act and things Maybe says happened previously, I kept wondering why both women didn't end communication with them once and for all.

Since I am interested in learning more about Rachel, I will probably read Jagged.

Wonderfully written story with well developed characters, main and secondary. I loved the barbershop/whiskey bar setting. So original and a character in the story. Alexsei and Rachel were beautifully written with depth and a sexy connection. So good! A terrific start to the series.

Unraveled is slow, smooth jazz. It's easygoing and lazy, but it seeps into your soul and takes root. It's family drama and chaos, but it's also relationships, and love, and romance, and sex. You will fall in love with Alexsei and Maybe, with their layered complexity and dedication.
This story surprised me and I love being surprised. When it started, I thought it meandered and I felt like I was reading a soap opera but it's easygoing pace and languid sexiness drew me in. You will feel relaxed and engrossed at the same time while you read. And you will wonder where it's heading as Alexsei and Maybe settle into each other with an inquisitive Russian family on Alexsei's side, and harsh, horrible parents on Maybe's side. Alexsei's strength and protectiveness will capture your heart, and Maybe's loyalty and brightness will enchant you.
I loved Alexsei and Maybe. Let me start with Alexsei. He's a Russian immigrant to America and has a huge, boisterous, caring, extended family. It's a whole community. To be a part of Alexsei's life, is to be a part of his family. Alexsei starts of gruff and ozzing sexiness, but underneath that, he's fiercely protective, loving, loyal, and holds his family dear. He was all powerful male with a tender heart.
"The car was a lot like him. There was no mistaking, even at a glance, that both had power. A quiet, raw power. But sometimes, at full speed, it was loud and overwhelmingly strong. The power was in charge and unrestrained."
I loved the way Alexsei looked at Maybe. Like she's a treasure and someone special. And I loved his patience and gentleness with her even while he was sexing her up. And they did a lot of sexing up. Alexsei is perfect for Maybe.
"It completely makes sense that you’d end up with someone with a very strong personality. Someone stable and yet charismatic. Strength of character, strength of will is not the same as bullying people. You know that or you wouldn’t be with him."
Maybe was an eye-opener. She's so unique and different right from the very moment she stepped onto the page. From the way she talked, to her energy and zest for life. She's also fiercely protective of those she loved, especially of her sister Rachel, and often put others ahead of herself. It was wonderful that Alexsei came along and put her first. Maybe is a bright, shining light. She's kind, fun, caring and brave. And she suffered. She suffered from a terrible childhood and the most horrible parents I have ever encountered. The way they treated her was heinous. And when her parents were at their worst, it was wonderful that Alexsei was there at her side, supporting her, loving her.
"She loved the way he held her. With care, but not like she would break. He touched her like he couldn’t get enough. Not frenzied or hurried, but as if he relished, savored her. Something deep within her stirred at that. With the way he made her feel. Powerful and beautiful and magic."
“I see you and I see the brilliant heart of a warrior queen. Intelligent and sexy. Creative. Fierce and loyal to a fault. You’re everything. Together, we’re exactly what we’re supposed to be.”
At first, I didn't think I'd enjoy this story but it grew on me and then it took me by the heart and wouldn't let go. I grew to love the characters, even the nosy, bossy extended family members of Alexsei. I enjoyed the community that Ms Dane created around Alexsei and Maybe. It gave them roots and support and love.
Jagged is next with Victor and Rachel's story. There's going to be more family drama in the future, I think but I'm looking forward to it. I so want Rachel to find her own happy ending too. I can't wait to read it.

Reviewed by Deborah from <a href="http://www.alphabookclub.org/">Alpha Book Club</a> <br><img src="https://alphabookclub.org/wp-content/uploads/Deborah.png" width="150" height="150" alt="description"/> <img src="http://alphabookclub.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/ABC_Pinterest.jpg" width="150" height="150" alt="description"/>

Whiskey Sharp is the start of a new series by Lauren Dane and with it two characters giving into their desires for one another. Maybe Dolan has moved to a new place and is looking for a job when she gets a tip there is a job available at a barber shop owned by Alexsei. Two years later she is still working there and has kept her feelings about Alexsei to herself. Alexsei has been single for months now and thinks it’s time to stop fighting the inevitable and give into his desires to be with Maybe. They have an intense chemistry that I love in main characters and they do not have to be in the same room to feel it. Alexsei has a big Russian family and Maybe has a family that has emotionally abused her for years. They are opposite on that front and it gives Alexsei a chance to try give Maybe what she has been waiting on her whole life for. Maybe is a protector for her sister but what she fails to realize that is someone needs to protect her and that is Alexsei’s job. Will she let him protect her when her parents come and try to encroach on her life once more by putting her down or will he run?

The story had a nice flow to the events, but it did drag on a little in the middle. I wanted a little more because some parts of the story I couldn’t tell who was talking in the scene. The story gives you a strong female character who is stubborn and emotionally insecure due to what she experienced when she was younger. Reading this story brought about so many things with abuse and how it’s not always physical. I love the romance between Maybe and Alexsei and I believed their chemistry and love for one another is real. If you like heartfelt, an intense Russian, loving families and great friendships then this story is for you.

Lauren Dane has captured my attention with the first in the Whiskey Sharp series. Unraveled is romance with an undeniably sexy edge and family of unforgettable characters.

Maybe Dolan would be completely estranged from her horrible parents if it weren't for the love they have for her older sister. Maybe believes that it's her burden to bear as long as Rachel can have them in her life. The sisters' relationship with their parents intrigued me almost more than Maybe's relationship with her smooth-talking boss, Alexsei. The Russian import hired Maybe as a barber at Whiskey Sharp and fell in love despite her quirks and colorful personality.

My one complaint about this story is the long, drawn-out suspense about the reason why Maybe's parents dislike her so much. The wait for insight comes nearly to the close of the novel and by that point the shock factor is zilch. I really expected that Maybe had done something extraordinarily heinous or even unthinkable, but the scenario made her parents' reaction seem overly dramatic. However, the story would not be what it is without that contention.

Thankfully, there's a wild bearded Russian to kiss away Maybe's woes and provide her with the confidence her father constantly tries to take from her. Alexsei is a steady character that provides the Dolan sisters with a sense of security through his family and his protective nature. Unraveled is the perfect way to begin the Whiskey Sharp series. I can't wait for Jagged and Torn, which likely follows characters we've already come to adore!
*ARC provided in consideration for review*

***ARC Provided by the Author/Publisher via NetGalley***

I was excited about this title, I thought it would be interesting and different. I liked the idea of hairstylists working in a salon that was also a bar.

There were parts of it that did work for me, and I did enjoy the relationship between Alexsei and Maybe. I liked that there was an attraction there, and that it was not pursued...until it was and then both of the characters were all in to the relationship and that it moved forward with the idea that both of them were invested in the relationship.

Unfortunately, I thought the secondary characters got in the way of the story and there was too much time spent on the development of their story arc. I also thought Alexsie's ex was unnecessary and not a very believable character, and this impacted my ability to engage with the story.

I do think the series has potential and I am interested to see where it goes from here. Hopefully, there will be less focus on the introduction of the secondary characters as the series moves from the first book.

I am not able to recommend this title.

Whiskey Sharp: Unraveled is a super sexy book with a major hipster vibe. I can hardly wait to see where this series will take us!

The cover and title of this book suggests moonshine and trouble! As it turns out this is a modern day contemporary romance from the talented pen of contemporary romance author Lauren Dane. The story is a nice blending of family drama and red hot romance making it a must read for fans of Ms. Dane's contemporary romance series. Maybe Dolan is the quintessential Dane heroine full of bravura and vulnerability. I was hooked from the moment she walks into Whisky Sharp with a cake and an introduction. She has no qualms about taking on the big burly Russian owner and proving her capabilities that earn her the job she wants and needs. The attraction between them ignited on that day simmers for a while before it finally bursts out in full flame.
Alexsei Petrov is the perfect foil for Maybe, a modern day warrior who holds family loyalty and friendship dear to his heart. He too has been attracted to Maybe from the beginning but manages to resist her until he finally realizes the futility of his resistance and succumbs. As their relations bursts out into the open, we're treated to beautiful loving moments but also nice loud noisy moments as Maybe assimilates further in Alexsei's warm, boisterous family.
Maybe's life has quite a bit of dark in it as readers will soon find. A difficult relationship with her parents that she's patiently trying to put a band aid on in support of her sister Rachel. She's quite the role model as she holds her own and commands respect from Alexsei's family when she puts his ex-girlfriend in her place at a family gathering. I most particularly was quite intrigued by her name but will leave readers to find their own answers when they read the book.
All in all a very promising start to a new series. I personally can't wait to read more about the very colorful and interesting cast of characters introduced here.

Maybe was a hair dresser at a local barbershop/whiskey bar. After years of watching women circle Alexsei, they hook up because they are both unattached at the same time.

Maybe challenges Alexsei to see the world through her eyes, while Maybe needs the security Alexsei can offer. They truly are friends before they become more.

Maybe goes through some very difficult times with her parents and in the end, I pretty much hated them…

The flip side to that is Alexsei’s family. They are loud, lots of food and adopted both Maybe and her sister, Rachel, even before Alexsei knew what was happening.

I liked Unraveled. Hot Russian, rocker/hair dresser drums and family.

I received this ARC copy of Unraveled from Harlequin -HQN. This is my honest and voluntary review. Unraveled is set for publication Jan. 30, 2018

My Rating: 3.5 stars
Written by: Lauren Dane
Series: Whiskey Sharp (Book 1)
Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: HQN
Publication Date: January 30, 2018
ISBN-10: 0373799381
ISBN-13: 978-0373799381
Genre: Contemporary Romance

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Whiskey-Sharp-...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/whis...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/whis...

Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
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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."



* * * * *



First of, I do want to disclose that Ms. Dane is one of my go to authors. It doesn't seem to matter what genre she is writing in. It is always good. To check out her other series and books, just click here.


This book is set in one of my favorite sections of Seattle, Pioneer Square, and it even comes complete with some of the touristy sites such as the Underground Tour. The barber shop, Whiskey Sharp, doesn't exist but it would fit right in.


What really sold me on this book however are the characters. Maybe is loyal and protective to those she loves. She isn't accustomed to being protected though. That's where Alexsei comes in. He is her boss and recently her lover. He comes from a large family who adopted Maybe and her sister. And he just can't seem to understand why Maybe's family would throw her away.


This book resonates with family drama and true love. I would recommend WHISKEY SHARP UNRAVELED to any of my readers who enjoy a well written contemporary romance with a bit of an edge.


*** I received this book at no charge from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions expressed within are my own.

For over a year Maybe Dolan has been cutting hair at the barbershop (just off a bar) owned by Alexsei Petrov and has been denying her attraction to him the whole time. But Alexsei, out of a serious relationship and tired of chasing women, is ready to step into a relationship with Maybe.

He's a family-oriented man (even his ex is still a part) while her family is pretty broken up. Her parents never treated her like she was an accepted part while doting all their attention on her sister. After her sister went through a fairly horrific experience, Maybe's parents wanted to wrap her up in cotton while Maybe wanted to help her live life. Her parents hate her for that.

This was a three-star book except for Maybe's name. Oh good god. This is a cute name when you hear it but when you have to read it and then try to figure out every sentence and that it doesn't start with "Maybe today she would." The process smoothed out for me about 2/3 of the way through the book but that is a long time to wait.



Two and a half stars

This book comes out January 30th

Followed by Jagged

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.

Maybe Dolan talks a mile a minute, looks like a punk rocker and takes on the role of protector and caretaker for those she loves. Aleksei Petrov is a gruff Russian and barber. He owns Whiskey Sharp the only place in Seattle you can get drink while you get your hair cut.

Maybe has lusted after Aleksei for two years. Aleksei has finally opened his eyes to the woman right in front of him. He’s determined to win Maybe’s heart and rule her body. The past has come back to haunt Maybe and it may ruin the life she has carved out for herself and her sister in Seattle. However, Aleksei is determined to keep his woman safe and happy right where she is. Can he succeed?

Ms. Dane has created a unique setting for her latest series. Whiskey Sharp is a barber shop that features a bar where patrons can enjoy spirits. I really enjoyed Maybe’s exuberant personality. She really is the perfect match for Aleksei. He is a sexy alpha male with an attractive dominant personality. Maybe is a force to be reckoned with. I just loved it when she flustered Aleksei and how she dealt with Aleksei’s ex-fiancé.

Maybe and Aleksei’s relationship is super hot and emotional. Maybe’s sister and family take on a crucial role in Whiskey Sharp: Unraveled. Many times, I found my eyes misty and heart aching with worry for these characters. Aleksei’s family is the perfect balance to Maybe’s. I absolutely loved them. Ms. Dane did an excellent job creating the family bond.

Whiskey Sharp: Unraveled is a great contemporary read. Fans of Author Lauren Dane will be running to the bookstore to add this to their collection.

Maybe Dolan and her sister Rachel bought a house together in Seattle after a tragedy nearly broke Rachel. Maybe picks up a job at Whiskey Sharp, a trendy barbershop/bar. The owner, Alexsei Petrov is sexy as all get out, but since he’s in a relationship he’s off limits. When it turns out Maybe and Rachel bought a place next to his aunt, they’re eventually brought into the family fold. Things are status quo for two years, until Alexsei and his girlfriend break up. Maybe sees her shot to get him between the sheets and goes for it.

Alexsei needed time after his breakup to get his head in the right place, but enough time has passed that he’s willing to jump in with Maybe when she makes a pass. He’s surprised to find he knows so little about her, considering they’ve been working together for years. They have chemistry in spades, but Maybe is skittish when it comes to commitment.

Maybe’s main priority is being with her sister and avoiding her parents. They’ve treated her like crap her whole life and now they blame her for her sister leaving them. They’re pretty abusive and she’d cut them off completely if it weren’t for her sister needing them. She understands what family is, and Alexsei and his are some of the best, but he can be overbearing. After the way her parents controlled her growing up, Maybe can’t deal with any kind of control from her boyfriend.

I liked that Maybe worked hard to overcome her past and get out from under her parent’s thumb. I wish Dane had further explored the reasons for them treating her the way they did. As it was, things were left pretty open. I assume we’ll understand more when we get Rachel’s book, but that part of the book felt unfinished. Despite the issues she had with her parents, Maybe was self-confident and knew her own mind. I liked that she was willing to make the first move with Alexsei and wasn’t afraid to be honest about her feelings.

Alexsei was a great fit for her. Strong and tender at the same time, he was a rock for her and her sister both. Once he claimed them as family, he was willing to stand in front of them, beside them, or behind them as they needed. Though he could be the quintessential alpha-male, he wasn’t afraid to step back and let Maybe handle things herself. They had great chemistry and I loved how they came to mean so much to each other over the course of the novel.

The book ended on something of a cliffhanger. While the romantic elements were mostly wrapped up, a lot of the book was left open. As I said, I’m sure we’ll get more answers in the subsequent books, but this one felt unfinished.

Dane is a fabulous storyteller. I was wrapped up in Maybe and Alexsei from the start. Great chemistry, witty banter and a kickass heroine make this worth reading despite the questions left unanswered. I’m really looking forward to the next book.

3.5 out of 5

Lauren Dane is one of those authors whose style has matured very well. I've loved being able to compare her early work with her later work over the past year. Unraveled is a product of that more mature voice and her trademark strong women and strong female circles is definitely on display.

Maybe Dolan is having a no-good, very bad life and someone has to step up and make it better. And somehow, that's the problem. Because Lyosha (Alexsei) is just the man to do it. Perfect in every way for Maybe, he's the epitome of "the wind beneath my wings" and that makes him less of a character with depth and more of a fantasy or stereotype. Dane has done better than this with other recent books and it is disappointing to see it here.

Maybe and her sister Rachel live next door to the wild Russians, the Orlovs. The Orlovs are Russian but could easily pass for stereotypical Italians or Greeks. The wonderful, wholesome togetherness is almost saccharine, and in stark contrast to the Dolans. They all but adopt the sisters and incorporate them into the family. But Maybe and Rachel are broken and they each need very special handling.

I hated what the Dolans were doing to Maybe and Rachel, and it was different for each sister. I just flat out hated the Dolans. There really were no redeeming qualities to them. And there were no bad qualities to the Orlovs. Which, of course, is the problem. It's so ham-handed and obvious that I found it off-putting in the extreme. What? We're not going to get the point if it's done with more finesse? Does it have to be all or nothing? It was the same problem I had with Alexsei. Too perfect. He never messes up, never pushes too hard and has to backtrack.

Overall, I liked the book and the story. I feel like there this may be connected to one of Dane's other series since I kept feeling like there were things I was supposed to know. The issues Maybe faces are difficult and deeply painful. Her fears and distress are more than apparent on the page. It's absolutely heartbreaking, made all the moreso by who the perpetrators are. But, when I'm reading contemporary, I'm looking for something a little more true to life. This is total fantasy-land.

ARC received for review

Oh the feels....I forgot how much Ms. Dane liked them.

Y'all know I love a strong, sexy Russian man and Alexsei is all that and more, but has a girlfriend when the story starts. She last way too long, but there's no cheating. There was lots of sexy times but so much of her family drama. Her parents are real sh*ts. His family is great especially his cousin, Vic. Now his ex is a piece of work too.

why just three stars....
Her name just bugs me...Maybe...the explanation of is comes way too far into the story. Then Maybe mentions a kidnapping...one line, and then no explanation of it until chapters later. Did I mention her parents are sh*ts?