I received an arc from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.

Blossom was struggling with herself after her last encounter and was scared to be in a scene again. Along comes Ronan, the great Scot, and he is captivated by Blossom. Would Blossom be able to get over her fears and be with Ronan?

As they learn about each other Blossom starts to trust again but danger is right around the corner for both of them. Can they heal for a life forever together?
3.5 stars

If there’s one thing, this author knows how to do it is write a story that is steamy yet delivers a solid plot that is both intriguing and in-depth.

This book is about the BDSM scene, but it’s actually heavier on the romance side than the actual action of BDSM. The author dives into the topic of falling for your dom/sub and trying to work through that as a lifelong commitment.

One thing that Hardt also does well is create amazing characters and with Ronan, the main male character, she definitely has a winner. This guy is everything and he’s not afraid to show his feelings. Mary is strong, healing from past hurts, and trying to work through her feelings.

These two characters together are explosive and I really enjoy the fact that the plot is about the characters and their love for each other rather than the BDSM scene and figuring out the romance after the fact.

While there was a bit of repetition in conversation in the first portion of the book, these two characters shine. The plot is exciting, the steam is hot and heavy, and the connection between them is the bomb. The ending is so awesome too!

Definitely a wonderful, feel-good read with plenty of heat and interest you will devour!

A thrilling story featuring the Black Rose Underground Club. Lots of spicy scenes featuring Mary and Ronan. Will Mary take Ronan's offer? Really enjoyed the book.

This was technically book 3 in the Black Rose series, but each one can be read as a standalone. This is the first book I have read in the series and I didn't feel like I had missed any world-building or character development. "Blossom" explores the fine line between desire and control while taking place in the Black Rose Underground Club. Mary Sandusky is a seasoned submissive who is struggling with a scene that has gone awry, which makes her begin to question herself. Ronan O'Connor is a charismatic Highlander who throws Mary's world even more in chaos. The chemistry between them is definitely hot. I loved reading about how their relationship develops over the course of the book . The author's ability to delve into the complexities of submission and dominance adds depth to the narrative. The characters were engaging and the author did a wonderful job of exploring the complex emotions that were elicited in the book.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in exchange for my honest review.

Blossom was equally as good as the others in this series. I love how this book showed a different side to the world of BDSM and how the characters built a genuine connection not solely based on their shared kinks. I love the cultural aspect tied into the book and the characters were so easy to love.

A Hot and Steamy BDSM romance that is bound to keep you hooked from the beginning. This is the 3rd book in the Black Rose Trilogy which are all stand alone. Blossom is a seasoned submissive who is starting to second guess herself until she meets an Expert Dom Ronan O’Connor who flips her world upside down.

Helen Hardt has outdone herself again with this book. I feel as though every book gets better and I’m just hooked even faster every time I read.

“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”

I really tried to read this book. There is nothing wrong with the book. It just isn't for me at this time.

Mary (Blossom) has loved to come to Black Rose, but can’t seem to want to come any longer. As I read the words, I felt Blossom’s hesitation to be back and when Ronon walks in the door, dressed in a kilt, it seemed her world tumbled around. As I read the pages, I felt Mary’s attraction to Ronon, yet uncertain that this is the lifestyle for her. As they began their world wind courtship, I could feel her torn between what is safe and what makes her heart happy. Truly an excellent book by a favorite author.

I got to enjoy a ARC of Blossom by Hardt. It was a quick read and just as steamy as the previous titles in the Black Rose series. I really liked the history of New Orleans brought into the mix. Making it a mysterious but fun city to enjoy and Voodoo a religion to be explored, not feared. I found that rather refreshing instead of falling into the obvious fear and witch crafty element.
I'm not sure about the MMC's kilt. It felt a little forced and phony, but that's just me. I think that he could've been sexy without adding that element. But I suppose that made him stand out from the crowd? Spice level was decently high, but not out of hand. If you enjoyed the first couple of stories, then this one will definitely hit the right spot. Check the trigger warnings in case you have issue with any of the "play" involved. Not something I enjoy IRL, but this was a quick enjoyable light read.

Another great book to add to this series.
Helen Hardt really knows how to write a riveting book with all the feels.

Sometimes what you thought you wanted isn't actually what you need! The conclusion of Helen Hardt's 'Black Rose' series is charming and meaningful, and by the end, you will be on the edge of your seat.

I have loved reading every book in this series and Blossom was another gem. The BDSM lifestyle is seen from a different perspective in Mary and Ronan's story. Mary is submissive in all aspects of her life, but when a scene goes wrong it has her questioning her life. She is puzzled at why the scene had such an effect on her because she has forgiven the Dom she was with and it has happened before. Why is she now wondering if this lifestyle is enough for her?

Ronan is a handsome Highlander. His Scottish roots and muscular features have everyone stopping in their tracks. And when he makes his first trip to Black Rose Underground, everyone is gawking (understandably). He is a dominant through and through and when he lays his eyes on Mary (known as Blossom in the club) he is enamored. Ronan is always honest about his intentions and has never wanted more but Mary has him craving just that.

Their romance is an instant-love and whirlwind. They share some meaningful chats, have undeniable chemistry, and its even adorable when they spend time with his Mémé on a trip to New Orleans. Although it's been a short time since they met, every moment they spent together is precious. And Mary is not only getting her groove back in the bedroom but she is finally starting to realize that a future with Ronan is what she wants.

This was a beautiful story about finding yourself and realizing that you deserve to be happy. I rooted so hard for Mary and Ronan. I think the final chapters were great at keeping a reader on the edge of their seat at least that's what it did for me. Sad to see this series come to an end, but I can't wait for the next book from one of my all time favorite authors, Helen Hardt!

I liked this novel a lot, having read many of Helen Hardt's books before. I have not read the two prior to this novel, but this book was well written - as all of Helen's books are. This was predominantly romance, light on the BDSM. Which in series like this - I feel is necessary for like a breather. This novel/series reminds me a lot of the series by Sara Cate, but good nonetheless. While I do feel this is okay as a stand-alone, it would likely benefit all readers to read the prior two novels to have a better grasp of the characters that are mentioned throughout this novel. This focused on a female, which was nice as many times that man is the lead of these types of series. The scenes were hottt, as usual - Helen can't write a bad spice scene! 4 stars, but only because it did feel a tad repetitive. :)

In a world where your desires are available and the rules are simple one woman will discover that her past does not define her.

When Mary aka Blossom finally faces her past will she be able to give herself to Ronan, the handsome Scotsman who recently arrived to town?

If you love your romance with an inferno heat, writing that pulls you in with characters that are exciting, layered, and full of spark you won't want to miss this.

While this is part of a series it can be read as a standalone.

This is the third, and last book, in this series, and I have to say that I am glad about that. While this book offered a little more storyline (the whole New Orleans scene and the event in the coffee shop), much of it was just a repeat of Hardt's other books. Her stories focus on the BDSM scene, where the sub ultimately falls in love with the dom, and vice versa. This is very repetitive of all her stories that I have read so far and I am honestly looking for a new plot from her. 3.5 stars for this one, but only because of the New Orleans/coffee house things.

Another WOW from Helen Hardt. Each book in the series keeps getting better and better. Thank you NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I could not put this novel down. The relationship between Ronan and Mary is so special it takes your breath away. It grew quickly but deeply. Their attraction was something so on point it mad you swoon. All I can say is READ THIS BOOK.

I don't know how you got inside my heart, but I do know that I don't want you to leave

Hands down Blossom in the Black Rose series is my favorite. Black Rose Underground was a safe place for Mary to let go and explore her sexual desires. But when a scene goes terribly wrong, it makes her rethink if she should leave the way of life altogether. But when Ronan O'Connor walks into the club, Mary instantly feels a flash of hope and possibilities.

Ronan exudes dominance and control when he walks into a room. Mary catches his eye like no other woman has. She makes him see a future with her which is so out of character and not his norm. It was engrossing to see them both navigate what they both are feeling for each other.

Publication date: January 23,
2024

Blossom is the 3rd and final instalment of the Black Rose series by Helen Hardt. I have absolutely loved this series so far. It’s my first introduction to the author and first dark romance series I have read.

Blossom focuses on Mary, a character we have seen in the background of the first two books. Mary loves the underground club life. Fulfilling her sexual needs without the emotional attachment of a relationship.

After an encounter gone wrong, Mary is having a tough time getting back to the club and starts to question everything she thought she wanted. One night when she returns to the club after weeks away she meets Ronan O’Connor a gloriously large and beautiful Scotsman new to the club.

Mary and Ronan connect at first sight. Mary isn’t ready for club play yet so they meet outside the club to get to know each other better. Something neither of them have done - they typically leave the club underground and don’t mix reality with play time.

After a short time getting to know each other, Mary and Ronan realize that although they have never wanted it with anyone else, they want to be more to each other than club friends. Is marriage, family and forever love in Mary’s future? Is Ronan the man she’s been waiting for?

I enjoyed this book but didn’t quite connect with the characters as much as the first two. I’m also not a huge fan of insta love, I’m much more into character and relationship development than this book offered. This is a 3 star for me but still highly recommend the series of you’re into dark bdsm romance!

Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

#NetGalley #helenhardt #blossom

✨🔮🌞🌕🍄🌕🌞🔮✨
ARC Review

Blossom - Helen Hardt

5/5⭐️
5/5🌶️

✨✨✨✨✨✨
Wow this one is seriously such a good one from start to finish! I loved every detail and especially mémé! I need to walk into the Black Rose Underground Club just for one day please! Blossom is such a great FMC and the growth was just so good! I was routing for her so hard! Ronan is the man we all want to run into! Ronan is the sexy kilt wearing, serious businessman and an extremely great Dominant! When Blossom and Ronan do things a bit differently at first and may not see it with their own eyes at first. Fate truly brought them together for a reason! I forever will love Ronan and Blossom’s story!

📚📚📚
If you like to read:
~ Underground sex/ leather club
~ Dominant
~ Submissive
~ New Orleans
~ VooDoo
~ Coffee Shops
~ Character Growth
… You should definitely check this out

📚📚📚

✨Do you have any pets? What are their names?

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

#books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok #arc

Helen Hardt has done it again! After reading Blush and Bloom, I’m back to Black Rose Underground for another round of exquisite BDSM vibes! I was very excited to read Blossom and I was hooked from the beginning until the end. The book focuses on Mary, who, after a traumatic event, has sworn off BDSM scenes, and Ronan, who, with his understanding but still domineering ways, helps Mary surpass her trauma. This is an emotional ride but it’s still an insta-love kind of thing which threw me off a bit at the beginning since both leads swore to never fall in love (again for Mary) which hasn’t been my favorite trope. Helen Hardt has a way of capturing my attention with her writing and the way she describes what they’re doing and how they’re feeling like we’re in the same room with the characters experiencing it with our own eyes. I did feel that the ending was a bit rushed and that the life-threatening situation at the end was a bit predictable in a way that they professed their love for each other and then The End, but it was still a wonderful read. I really enjoyed reading this series and can’t wait for more of Helen Hardt!

Thank you to Entangled Publishing for this ARC! A couple of quick notes.
1) I have not read the other two books in this series. This book was able to be read as a standalone and I didn’t feel like I missed out on anything by not reading the other ones. I’m sure I would have gotten to know some other characters, but it didn’t affect the story for me.
2) I’m not usually into dominate/submissive stories. To me, the romance and love story was the focal point more so than it being dom/sub which I appreciated.

With all that being said, I really enjoyed this book and am invested in Mary’s and Ronan's relationship. Like I mentioned, I love that the romance was the focal point of the story. I love that they could be vulnerable with each other and that you could really feel that they cared for one another. I like when books have duel point of views because you really get to know the characters and what they are feeling.

The only thing that kind of took me out of it, was the dramatics surrounding them expressing their love for each other. I wish that moment was more simple and not as intense as it was, but it didn’t ruin the story for me.