Blossom is the last book in Helen Hardt's Black Rose trilogy and the only thing I can say is WOW! Although I read the first book in this series, I somehow missed reading the second novel, but you can be sure I'll be backtracking to read it after this unputdownable, 5-star read.

First off, a warning: Blossom is an sexually graphic, erotic, BDSM romance, and if any of those adjectives are an issue for you, you should probably read something else. However, if you love a well-written, seriously hot, and deep look into the BDSM lifestyle, and both its good points and bad ones, I suggest starting at the beginning of this series, and giving it a try.

This novel centers around Mary, aka Blossom, a natural submissive who was introduced to the BDSM lifestyle while at college--the Dom being one of the older professors at the college, and it ended badly when Mary wanted forever, and her Dom just wanted sex. When she finally got over him, or at least thought she did, she then had a bad experience with a Dom at the Black Rose Underground club when a Dom she was scening with didn't honor her safe word--which left her deeply traumatized and wondering about whether or not she ever wanted to get involved with a Dom again.

When Mary's BFF, Brenda, finally convinces her to at least meet for a drink at The Black Rose, it's there she spots the hero, a new member of the club, Ronan, a gorgeous, shirtless Dom, who's wearing a kilt--is there anything sexier? The two are immediately and totally attracted to one another, but Mary is very tentative, and Ronan seems willing to take the time to get to know her and take things slowly.

Ronan is the kind of literary hero you can easily fall in love with. Although he's not looking for a long-term relationship having left a 5-year one behind in Scotland, he's intrigued by Mary and wants to help her, get to know her, and get her over her fear of getting back into the lifestyle. To say that he sweeps Mary (and this reader) off her feet is putting it mildly, but what impressed me most was how well Ms. Hardt developed each of these two characters, and how careful she was about portraying their slowly building relationship, and Mary and Ronan coming to terms with their feelings and their hopes for the future.

Yes, there are pitfalls along the way, all handled with care and consideration, but in conclusion, this was one really excellent read and I'm happy to recommend it.

I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions stated are my own.

What a great way to end the Black Rose Underground series! Blossom is a member of the club who had a traumatic experience and is questioning whether or not this lifestyle agrees with her anymore. Cue Ronan, a gorgeous Scot, and Blossom is rethinking everything. Ronan wants to help her feel comfortable again. Sparks fly. Ronan is endearing, thoughtful and find himself wanting more then a physical relationship. Blossom becomes smitten and we see both of their feelings grow. Ronan is a true hero and swoon worthy. Blossom is every girl who is a little bit broken and looking to find herself. I really loved the series and I’m so glad I read it. This can be read as a standalone but I would recommend reading the first two before diving into this one as characters from previous books are revisited.

Oh my gosh. I love the fact that we circled back to Mary in this final episode of the series. She has not been herself after a scene with Jack and she has shut herself up with unresolved feelings like something truly is missing from her life. In walks Ronan a Scottish hunk and her whole life changes in a matter of a week.. This is the best way to end this series. I love both of them so much..

BDSM is a little out of my depth, but I’m always fascinated by the books about them as there really is a whole world to it with all of its rules and codes. I wasn’t expecting to read about New Orleans, my home, for a good chunk of this book and was immensely pleased about that. Also I totally envisioned Ronan as Jamie Fraser so the references were pretty spot on and funny 😂 in the blurb, when I read about a Scotsman who got her attention, I was just immediately like SIGN ME UP 😂 overall, I enjoyed this read! It is also an installment in the Black Rose Underground series, but can be read as standalone!

Thank you to the author and Entangled for the early copy!

This one focuses on the girl we've seen in both stories so far, but now it's her turn to shine. Blossom, or Mary, is finding her way in the world and deciding if the sub life is really where she wants to be anymore. Of course, she meets the most thoroughly dominant man she's ever seen in the midst of her indecision, making everything harder to decide.

As Mary and Ronan navigate their desires in and out of the bedroom, they both begin to realize that they may mean far more to one another than they ever thought possible.
This one was more emotional than Blush and Bloom, but still very steamy!

This book was gifted to me as an E-Arc by Entangled publishing and Netgalley

DNF- I was really excited to start this book and loved the premise but, found it missed the mark with me. I found I didn't really connect with any of the characters, some of the spicy scenes were a bit to cringey for my liking and overall I didnt feel the need to continue with this book. This was my first time reading anything by Helen Hardt and I am definitely willing to give her another try eventually, maybe by starting this series from the beginning?

This story was absolutely amazing! I’ve been so excited to read this book after reading the second one. I’m sad it’s coming to an end but I think Helen did an amazing job writing the series.

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for a review. Thank you Entangled publishing for helping amazing authors like Helen. And last of all, thank you Helen for creating a amazing series.

Not my cup of tea. A very ridiculous and pointless book with immature characters and a random ending. I will not be reading any more books by this author.

ANOTHER HIT BY HELEN HARDT! The first two books in the Black Rose series were PHENOMENAL! I didn't think it could get any better. Let's just say this book captured my Jamie Fraser fantasies very well. Thank you Helen Hardt and team for gifting me this book early. Thanks as well to Entangled Publishing. Truly enjoyable experience that others should read as well.

Blossom is the final book in the series and Helen Hardt Returns to The ultra-luxe Black Rose Underground Club and sets the stage for passion, trust, and the complexities of love.

Our main character is Mary Sandusky, who once reveled in her role as the seasoned submissive Blossom. However, a scene gone awry shatters her confidence, leading her to contemplate leaving the club forever. That is until she encounters Ronan O'Connor, a hot Scot with an irresistible allure.

Ronan is a commanding Dom with a reluctance to form connections beyond the club. Yet, he finds himself drawn to Mary. Their chemistry is palpable, and as Ronan endeavors to make her his own, the story takes twists and turns that challenge the boundaries of pleasure and submission.

As fans of Helen can expect, the characters are richly developed, and their vulnerabilities add depth to the story. Mary's internal conflict and Ronan's struggle with forming emotional connections outside the club create a tension that kept me turning the pages not wanting to put down this book. Her portrayal of the BDSM lifestyle is both respectful and authentic. The intimate scenes are well-written, showcasing the connection between the characters.

While "Blossom" can be read as a standalone novel, it also ties up the loose ends of the Black Rose series with finesse. Hardt expertly navigates the challenges faced by her characters, offering resolution and satisfaction to fans like me who have read the series from the beginning.

I thoroughly enjoyed the 3rd Book in the Black Rose series! his series has me in a chokehold. Every single book surpasses the previous. This world that she has created is true to life and the characters are amazing. I really enjoyed Mary and Ronan's story. The spice in this book is so good and this has to be the most descriptive one yet but that just made the book even better in my opinion. I also was surprised by the slight paranormal aspect but that elevated the story honestly. Once again our queen Helen Hardt has delivered an amazing read.
Thank you NetGalley & Helen Hardt for an arc in exchange for an honest review!

This book, WOW! I am surprised with how much I loved Mary and Ronan’s journey! I am happy to see Mary find her place and figure out her figure! Mary has been a background figure of this series but she’s an integral part in what the world of BDSM world is and means. As she tries to figure out her path she encounters a man who changes everything!

Ronan really surprised me because there were times that I will not lie, I wasn’t sure if I liked him. As I got to know him and see his struggles I understood him more and I couldn’t picture a better man to provide Mary with her path and what she needs!

Both Mary and Ronan have a lot to figure out and a lot to overcome but seeing them find someone to share it with just warmed my heart! The steamy scenes in this book were so hot and I loved every word!

Wow! Another great story in the Black Rose series!! Mary and Ronan are so sexy hot!

Thank you Helen for another amazing story!!

Blossom by Helen Hardt
3/5⭐️
3/5 🌶️
_____________________________________
I really, really wanted to enjoy this book but think it just wasn’t my cup of tea. There was definitely some initial promise in the very beginning but as the meeting/relationship between the two MC’s began to grow, you couldn’t feel the chemistry or spark.
Some of it towards the end seemed a little rushed.
I did enjoy how Voodoo was discussed in the book and the correct way a relationship between any dominant and submissive should be.

This book was a good quick read if you’re into BDSM romances. I found the fast paced romance between Mary and Ronan to be absolutely captivating. I loved how despite the fast pace between them meeting and falling in love, they still managed to grow as people. Although I was definitely not expecting there to be a gunshot involved in this story, but it added the needed drama and revelation scene to make it even better. I will say that I wish we’d gotten more Dom Sub scenes between Ronan and Mary, but I am definitely happy with the level of spice that was in the scenes we did get. I never wanted it to end. The world building and character development were top notch and I would highly recommend reading this book.

A steamy BDSM insta-love romance that is light on the BDSM and heavy on the romance, makes this 3rd book in the series the perfect wrap up on the trilogy of Black Rose Underground Club members series. I think the series could easily continue as there are so many more characters that could be brought to the forefront to be the main characters, but as I understand it at this time, this is just a trilogy. This book could be read as a stand alone, but characters from the previous books are mentioned so I do feel that you may be missing out on foundational information by skipping the previous books. These books are more short stories/novellas than full fledged stories, but they are well plotted to give you a satisfactory beginning, middle and end. Just note that if you don't like heavy spice in your reading then you have inadvertently picked up the wrong book. If you find spice quite delicious read away and enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!!!

✨ARC Review✨
📖: Blossom
🖋️: Helen Hardt
🗓️: 1/23/24
⭐️: 5 of 5
🌶️: 5 of 5
💬: “Besides, mo leannan no one’s going to be looking at me if you’re by my side.”

Tropes, Topics & Themes:
✨Dom/Sub
✨VooDoo
✨Leather club
✨New Orleans
✨Ghosts

After a scene goes wrong. Mary takes a break from club life in search of what she wants.

With her friends starting to settle down around her. She starts to feel out of place and wonders if she will ever have what they have.

Will Mary walk away from Black Rose? Or will it take someone special for her to find herself again?

Ronan recently moved from Scotland for a fresh start, for business, and looking to find a new sub after he ended his long-term relationship.

Mary and Ronan notice each other the second he steps foot into Black Rose. Still unsure if she’s ready to start doing scenes again and being a sub.

Ronan is willing to take the steps to help build her confidence back while trying to get her to be his new sub.

As they get to know each other. Mary finds herself wanting more than a dom/sub relationship. While Ronan has never wanted anything more.

“I don’t normally share my submissive, Mary, but I’ve known this ghost for a long time.”

The ghost scene!! I loved it and could learn some tricks from Ronan. I was so happy when Phantom was mentioned in this book.🔥

“I see my grandson’s future. I believe it lies with you, Mary.”

Sometimes everyone needs a little push to believe in the magic. I loved this book. It’s my favorite in the series and I will continue to be on the lookout for new books by Helen.

Thank you, Helen Hardt, Entangled Publishing and Netgalley for the EARC! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared on my Instagram @Alexandriavwilliams_ shortly.

Every part of the book is something you will definitely love to read. The Jean-Pierre is real a ghost isn't he? That scene was hot and sexy. The last book in the series was written beautifuly Helen.

I particularly enjoy the part when Yvette says " Sometimes it takes a while. Sometimes not so much. Love can’t be defined". The feelings blossomed and become stronger along the way. This is really a captivating story. What a nice read.

5/5⭐️
3.75/5🌶

Blossom which is Book 3 in the Black Rose Series by Helen Hardt has been a captivating read for me.

We've met Mary aka Blossom before in the series and I've never been happier to see a side character get their own book.
Mary is very experienced in the BDSM lifestyle, so much so she even teaches an introductory submissive class. She loves the lifestyle and is comfortable in the Club. However a scene that went bad has changed something in her. She's not ready to do another scene and she's not sure she ever will be until she figures out what it is that's missing from her life.

Ronan O’Connor’s is a dominant through and through. He's well versed in the Lifestyle and any submissive or any woman for that matter would fall at this gorgeous Scottish Gods feet.
He's new to Black Rose and the city. When he goes to the club and sees Mary he has an instant attraction to her. He sees the woman and is immediately interested.
When the two strike a conversation and she tells him she's not looking for a scene he didn't seem put off by it at all. He senses that something has set her in a different mindset and that she isn't ready for a scene but he's determined to help her find what it is she's searching for.
Mary might be wanting More that just scenes and random partners now while Ronan is open and up front about not looking for more than a compatible submissive in every way but nothing more beyond scenes.

Sometimes what you think you want isn't what your searching for. Sometimes the things you need and truly crave are entwined with the very things you're not really looking for.

Helen has taken my heart and ran away with it when she wrote Blossom. She makes me feel like I'm right there in the mix of things and I got lost in Ronan and Mary's world.

Blossom is my favorite of this series by far and I simply can't stop thinking of this book that's living rent free in my mind.

5 gorgeous Blossoming 🌸 Stars!

Thank you NetGalley and the Publishers for letting me read this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. Blossom by Helen Hardt was a beautiful sizzling romance book. This novel was hot, steamy, lots of tension along with some hear wrenching moments. I really enjoyed how the author wrote such a great emotional and powerful story. The two main characters Mary and Ronan had great scenes along with chemistry. Their love story was truly beautiful