The Right Kind of Reckless is book two in the Reckless Hearts series about best friends and ex-Marines Max, Collin, and Gavin. The first book focused on Collin. The Right Kind of Reckless is the love story of Max and Collin’s little sister Lia. Max and Lia are star-crossed lovers, in love with each other, but unable and unwilling to tell the other because of extenuating circumstances. Did I buy the extenuating circumstances? Mostly. I have a habit of expecting adults to behave like adults, but the truth is they often don’t—especially when they’re carrying around emotional baggage. Max and Lia are also on the younger, post college side of their mid-20’s.

I didn’t especially like Lia. She used to be the definition of a “good girl.” There was some kind of serious incident in college which we can guess at, but no specific label was given, and we don’t get much detail around those years of her life. (I did not read the first book so I don’t know if the detail was there.) From what I can tell, she still is a good girl at heart, but she’s found new confidence to deal with her baggage by completely changing her persona and the way she dresses. It never seemed to fit her no matter how hot Max thought it was. To me, it felt like she was playing dress up.

Max, tries to do the right thing by not acting on his feelings for Lia, out of respect for his relationship with Collin. But his method for doing this is to become a manwhore. Numbing? Yes. Respectful? Not especially. Max is a little lost and has some maturing to do. Still, we admire his willingness to come to Lia’s aid at the drop of a hat.

What I actually liked best about the story was that most of the book was not spent trying to get them together, but how to make it work. From immature beginnings, it’s a mature place to end up. There were a few clichés along the way and rubbed me the wrong way, but not enough to put the book down. Overall, I liked it.

My Rating: B, Liked It

Full disclosure: I'm not usually like this. I mean, I try to give authors creative license and not take things too literally or get bent out of shape when liberties are taken. But for some reason - possibly because it hits so close to home - the reference to the Mayo Clinic in Minneapolis turned me off this book. There is no Mayo Clinic in Minneapolis. Unless you have a sports medicine injury - which is not how this was written. So - for whatever reason, that was a major strike. It pulled me out of the story and - completely uncharacteristic of myself - I wasn't able to shake it.

So - in the end, this one wasn't for me. It's the second book in the series and the first one was just "okay" for me. However, first books can sometimes be the toughest to get through, so I wanted to give this one another shot. I still had trouble connecting with the characters. I lost patience with them quickly and easily and when I put it down in favor of something else, I found that I couldn't bring myself to pick it back up. In the end, it's a DNF at 40%.

I do think that a huge part of the problem is my state of mind and the fact that I got one little thing stuck in my craw and wasn't able to get past it. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to read and review it. I think this series is probably just not for me.

I am a huge fan of Heather Van Fleet books and I have been counting down the days until I could get my hands on The Right Kind of Reckless , so when I got the chance to read this book I was thrilled and I opened up this book as soon as I could , I feel like I am lying a little saying that lol ,I didn't just open this book I devoured this book like it was my first meal in weeks . The Right Kind of Reckless was such a fantastic read . Lia and Max love story left me breathless and very swoony. Heather Van Fleet is such a talented writer who has masters the art of balancing swoon worthy romance , steamy sexy times and emotional scenes that will grip your heart easily to create unforgettable stories . I was rooting for Lia and Max no matter what happened in this story and I was beyond thrilled that they got there happily every after . I loved this book and can honestly say that it is one of the best contemporary romances I have read this year. I cannot wait to see what Heather Van Fleet will write next I know it will be fantastic .If you want a sexy ,fun, addicting , heart-warming story then you should definitely pick up The Right Kind of Reckless as soon as you can .

Battling Your Demons and Finding Love

The Right Kind of Reckless is book 2 of the Reckless Hearts trilogy by Heather Van Fleet. Reckless Hearts (book 1) is also available and these books can be read as standalones but you'll definitely want to read them all.

‘Her heart was big, her soul was warm, and she made everyone around her, including me, feel like they’d won the lottery by being with her.’ - Max

This is the first book I've read by Heather Van Fleet and I've just finished it after reading it all in one go as I couldn't put it down. I fell completely in love with this couple and couldn't read fast enough to see if they would overcome their demons enough to be together. I was in suspense as both of them tried to find their way and build the future they each hoped for after spending so much time battling through life and the consequences of their pasts.

Based on my own personal experiences, I can honestly say that Heather Van Fleet writes so well about Lia’s difficulties in being able to trust again and the attempts at hiding her true self by putting on a tough appearance for the outside world. The harm caused to Lia is far reaching and something she'll battle for the rest of her life in one way or another. Max was just the guy she needed as he'd already proven she was safe with him and he'd be there for her no matter what.

After getting snippets of Collin and Addie’s relationship in The Right Kind of Reckless, I'll definitely be reading their story in book 1 as I'm left wanting more. In fact, I've already downloaded it and will be jumping in as soon as I can. Then book 3 will be Gavin’s story and I'm excited for his book after getting a teaser in the epilogue of book 2. Without a doubt, I recommend this series to anyone who has not yet read it.

*I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley.

There is plenty of chemistry between Max and Lia, but with Lia being his best friend's sister, Max has never acted on his feelings for her. However, Max has finally decided to take a chance, even knowing the risk that being with Lia might cost him his friendship with his best friend. Will he be able to convince Lia to give them a shot at happy ever after, or will he lose the one person that has come to mean everything to him?

Although I haven't read the first book of this series, this story can easily be read as a standalone. Really, right from the beginning, Max and Lia together with the secondary characters are introduced exceptionally well and didn't make me feel like I was missing a lot by not having read the first book. The way this story started had me proud of the heroine, as she shows her boyfriend that no-one should mess with her. What a way to show she's a strong, independent woman that has overcome a lot, even though she still needs rescuing every now and again. Luckily, Max is a good friend willing to do anything for her. However, it was from the moment the hero and heroine come face-to-face for the first time that had me totally hooked to this story, as Max and Lia have some seriously powerful chemistry that just keeps getting stronger. How can they continue to deny how they feel about each other?

As for the dialogue, it was intense and emotional due to the main characters back stories, especially that of the heroine because of a trauma she suffered in her past that has turned her into the woman she is today with colored hair and tattoos. Moreover, both the main characters were nicely-developed and I liked every moment these two were in each other's company. So much so, that it was palpable that nothing should keep them apart, especially not the fact that her brother is his best friend.

With the main characters, I really liked the heroine for her independence and her determination not to rely on anyone to get her out of a horrible situation like the one she was once in years ago. I also liked that she gave the hero a chance because he's good for her and vice versa. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine is the way she's overcome her past and done so well for herself in going after what she wants for her future when it comes to a career. While the hero, he's confident; protective of the heroine because of the moment when he first met her; and I liked that he would do anything to make her happy, which includes finally making something of himself when it comes to a career.

Overall, Ms. Van Fleet has delivered a fantastic read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was off-the-charts; the romance nicely-detailed and shows just how good it can be to put your trust in the right person, especially someone who cares about her as much as Max does; and the ending had me loving the decision the heroine made because these two were meant for each other. How could she possibly live without being around Max all the time? I would recommend The Right Kind of Reckless by Heather Van Fleet, if you enjoy the brothers best friend trope or books by authors Rebecca Shea, Kaylee Ryan, Stacey Lynn and Winter Renshaw.

This is the second book in this amazing series, and is Max and Lia’s story. Lia has always been off limits for Max as she is his best friends little sister. The chemistry between them is explosive, and they are perfect together if they can overcome issues standing in their way. Will Max be able to get Lia to take a chance and trust him? Will Lia be able to claim this bad boy womanizer? No spoilers; this is a must read, you will not be disappointed!
This is a beautifully written storyline which flows seamlessly, and is an emotional, humorous, fun and sweet read. I highly recommend this authors’ work for all romance readers!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book!

I'm in love with a woman I can't have, and there's absolutely nothing I can do to stop myself from falling.

The problem? Her brother's my best friend.

I shouldn't want her this much. Not when it goes against the bro code. Not when I've never been able to commit to a woman for longer than a night.

But one look into her eyes and I'm a mess for her. She's my everything. And I have to walk away with nothing.



Reckless Hearts series
Reckless Hearts (Book 1)
The Right Kind of Reckless (Book 2)
Recklessly Ever After (Book 3)




Review:

So, here I go again. This is the first book of two that I read for this week that was not the first book in the series. This one was easy to get into and did not miss anything by not reading the book before. Though I am very interested in going back and reading that book after meeting the characters in this book.

As for this book, I loved this friends to lovers story. Max and Lia both have past hurts that effect them as individuals and as a couple and as a reader have those tissues ready. It was a great story with the right amount of tension between the hero and heroine to make them interesting and have e rooting for them. That Lia is such a strong female lead made it more interesting for me to read. Not that Max is a pushover, he is alpha when needed and know when to back off.

I cannot wait for Gavin's story, the teasing parts have me really intrigued

4Stars

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

I have to admit that I’ve never understood the “bro code”… and being female I never will. I guess if you know your best friend like a brother you know just how much of a jerk he could turn out to be – but i f you think of him as a brother then wouldn’t you also want the absolute best for your sister and your best friend? See? I just don’t get it – but that’s fine, I don’t need to in order to absolutely love a romance with a strong “bro code” involved.

Lia and Max have been attracted to each other, been secretly loving each other for a very long time but neither would act on it. Lia is Max’s best friend’s sister so by that DNA event she is off limits. But that doesn’t stop the feelings that simply will not go away no matter how many women Max tries with. Now that Lia needs him the most as a friend, at the very least, Max isn’t going to hold back any longer. He knows they could be so right together, so now is the time when he steps away from the “code” and claims his love… secretly, of course.

Never look at the surface to discover a person’s true self. Lia might be looking like a rebel, but deep inside she’s still the same girl that believed in goodness – before an event in college robbed her of that comfort. While both Lia and Max have issues to be dealt with neither is a victim, nor feeling entitled to anything. They are both strong people, for different reasons, and they would bring so much to each other if they would allow it.

I enjoyed The Right Kind of Reckless very much. You’ll find unique characters facing challenging situations. Life isn’t easy or cookie cutter bland. The road to their happy ending is not going to be smooth sailing, but anything worthwhile is worth the journey. I liked them individually and as a couple. Loved the secondary characters (even when they annoyed me). I believe any Romance reader will fall in love with these best friends and their ladies so I’d definitely recommend this story and the series to any reader who loves deep characters, a solid plot and believable situations. Now I’m just waiting for the next story, it’s going to be good.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

This book was so good and hit all my emotion buttons. The author did an amazing job I can't wait to read more by her.

*received an arc in exchange for an honest review**

4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The second book in Heather Van Fleet’s Reckless Heart series focuses on Max’s story. I have not read the first in this series but the author does such a great job of giving you a touch base on what’s going on that I never felt like I was lost. Max and Lia will grab your attention with their back and forth relationship and will keep you on your toes.

Max has always felt something for Lia since he met her 5 years ago. But he has always put aside his feelings because of his relationship with Collin, her brother. As he continues to look out for her he can’t keep denying his feelings and when he finally acts on them, he wonders did he just make a mistake.

Lia has been attracted to Max since day one but after her experience in college, she has always felt a little broken and wonders would he ever really feel anything for her. All the time the spend together has her going back and forth on if he might actually feel something for her and when he makes a move she wonders if it means more.

As Lia and Max navigate their relationship without letting others know, they still continue to have some doubts. They not only begin to worry about what Collin will say but when an opportunity comes up for Lia, they are about to test their relationship further. Will they be able to finally break down all of their walls for each other?

Dating your brother’s best friend may not be a smart idea!

Lia Montgomery is trying to get her life back together with working two jobs to finish paying for college and helping her brother take care of her toddler niece. Max Martinez is her brother’s roommate and he knows he should stay away from Lia but he fell in love with her a long time ago. Lia isn’t ready to date yet and Max starts to wear her down by being a friend when she needs it. Both of them know that dating isn’t a good idea and that her brother will be upset but they go ahead and start dating.

Reading the first book in the series gives more background to all the characters but I think the book can stand on its own for the reader.

Received an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

Where to start with this book? I loved it. It was funny and amazing and I laughed a lot and I swooned a lot and I giggled even more - and I fell for those guys, little beaner and all those around them once more.
Max and Lia are a wonderful couple with lots of chemistry and sparks that could light the sky, even when they are not fighting.

Max, Collin, and Gavin, three former marines, have been living together since they returned to the States after their last raid. Together they take care of little Chloe, Collin's nine-months-old daughter. The way these strong and very manly guys fawn over the little girl - simply incomparable. They are so sweet with her and protective, it is really cute.

Oh, their protectiveness doesn't stop there, it also extends to Lia, Collin's sister. Max has had a crush on her for a long time now - and she on him but due to circumstances (and Collin and, of course, Lia's history) they never acted on it. Okay, almost never.
Lia has been acting up and changed her style and outfit to something pretty badass ever since the fatal night where Max came to her rescue. Ever since that night, she has had major trust issues and, well, let's just say that Max reputation as a...lover of women...or something like that ...doesn't really help.
Would he be able to change for the right girl? And how would Collin react to his friend dating his little sister (no matter how old she is and how good she is at kicking ass herself) if Max was able to convince this pink-haired, sassy goddess that she could trust him?

Another funny, smart and wonderful book in this series - I can't wait for the next!

Oh, by the way - you might want to check out "Reckless Hearts" first, it is not necessary to understand "The Right Kind of Reckless" but you might enjoy it even more.

The Right Kind of Reckless is the second book in the Reckless Heart series, which is turning out to be phenomenal. Max is a hunky former Marine and downright swoon-worthy, but he’s not able to see just how incredible he is. He’s loyal, tough, steadfast, fun and a little bit cocky, and he’s fiercely attracted to his best friend’s sister, Lia. She is a complex woman who has emotional wounds that have caused her to shore up her defenses and guard her heart, but Max is able to reach her through the walls that she’s built. He's just the support Lia needs to share her burdens, and The Right Kind of Reckless is a gut-wrenching and emotional journey that proves love really does have the power to heal.

ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.

It was an awesome book. I throughly enjoyed reading it. I cannot wait to read more from this author!

This is a story about Max who is best friends with Collin from the first book. Collin has a younger sister – Lia. Friends to lovers story which this author nailed! We start off with Lia being arrested and calling Max to come bail her out. Even though Max is currently (literally) with someone, he comes to her rescue because she is the one he has always wanted and would do anything for. Little does he know, she too begins to develop feelings for Max. Max is definitely an alpha, but Lia is also a strong character. You don’t read about too many strong female characters and I felt she was well written.
Overall, I loved this book! I look forward to the next one in this series.
This is the second book in this series, but I feel it could have been read as a standalone. It would be better to read the series in order though so you would know who some of the characters are/background information.

Pretty good. For me the "oh we can't be together " was a little over the top. It wasn't as forbidden as they seemed to think, which made,it a little silly. So I liked the characters and story, but the middle dragged for me.

What a man! Max is a better man than he gives himself credit for. He lives by a code. Fights for the people he loves and is a stand up guy with a bit of baggage of his own. Yet it's a cocky, smart mouthed, hard as nails, bad girl that speaks to his soul. Confidence is a shield Lia wears to hide the scared woman within. Behind the tattoos and piercings lies a damaged girl struggling to keep her head above water and her heart intact. Only one man has ever been able to see beyond the shield and navigate the treacherous road to her heart. Is risking her heart worth exposing her secrets? Ms. Van Fleet holds nothing back. The Right Kind of Reckless is an emotional journey into the abyss. A tale of heartbreaking secrets, reckless love and long over do healing. These characters target the heart but embed themselves much deeper.

***ARC provided for an honest review***

The Right Kind of Reckless is the first novel I have read by Author Heather Van Fleet. This is also the second book in the Reckless Hearts series but can be read as a standalone.

This novel takes you on a journey of a woman who is heading down a road of self discovery and a man who wants what he can't have.

Lia had a traumatic situation happen to her in college. Ever since then she's dropped the good girl facade and brought the inner rebel out. She stripped the long brown locks and died them pink then added tattoos and piercings. But way down underneath this new exterior is still the girl she buried down deep.

When Max came home from Afghanistan he knew he wanted Lia from the start. The only problem is, Lia is Max's best friends little sister, meaning she's completely off-limits. Max is known as a playboy. He goes through women faster than anyone else to cover up his secret want for the one woman he can only have in a friendship sense.

The two are forced back together after a few months of not speaking when Lia suddenly gets arrested and needs someone to bail her out. After becoming a disappointment to her brother and to her parents she turns to the only person she has left, Max.

I loved Max and Lia!
Max is a jokester, he's freakin' hilarious.
Lia is the rebellious one with a fiery spirit but underneath the surface is a hint of her insecurities.

It was fun to see these two rekindle a flame that has never really gone out. I am a sucker for secret romances. I love the angst that comes with the 'any moment these two could be caught' scenario and boy did they get caught....can you say...AWKWARD!

I had to unfortunately drop a star because even though I loved the hell out of this story line and the characters, I felt the need for more of Lia's background. I wanted more of the real feelings instead of the woe is me. I felt like her situation was sugar-coated over. This is a traumatic moment she went through and I wanted to feel more of that pain and vulnerability coming from her.

Overall, I loved the hell out of this novel and I can't wait to get my hands on Gavin's story!

After reading Reckless Hearts, I was already intrigued by Max and happy to figure out what was up with him and Lia, the little sister of Max's best friend--and therefore off limits. Their long simmering love for each other sets the stage for a ton of great romantic tension that sizzles once the pair starts to figure things out. But then they a long road of complications to navigate before they can wind up in the same destination. This is a really sweet romance with a lot of steam, and I couldn't put it down.

Marines do it better and I think it's the first time I've read one and I loved it. Loving a girl that he knows he can't have is testing him and hasn't stopped for years. Falling for Lia on that fateful night, he loves her personality, pink hair and tatts. He saw the girl she changed from this shy girl to this take no crap woman. He was a great combination of protectiveness and loyal, Evan though sometimes he had good intentions it sometimes was a bit messy. But the bond that these two had and the push and pull is something I loved. They complemented each other in the ways and had to get to know each other again in a different light.

Final Rating: 4/5 Stars