This box set of The Strand Brothers Series includes books 1-3, plus the epilogue novella.
***WARNING***
These are dark erotic romantic thrillers which could trigger some people.
Please read with caution.
Due to violence, language, & sexual content, this series is recommended
for a mature audience of 18+.
● Synopsis for each book in the Series ●
Branded book 1
Some choices are simple, some are hard, and some leave a brand.
One unforgettable night at a masquerade changes it all.
Mogul Nik Strand is all too familiar with the curve balls life likes to throw. Believing his soul can never be restored, he covers his pain and heartbreak with money. The more the better—as his heart is nothing but ice.
Aimee Taylor makes a decision that will haunt her forever. Unfortunately life doesn’t come with a do over; therefore, she makes the best out of what she has.
An unforeseen circumstance brings these two together again, even though, neither can explain how or why the other seems so familiar. As love tries to heal this wounded couple, a common adversary seeks to destroy.
Bound book 2
When submission, love, and something far too terrifying bind.
How far will you go for someone you love? Which lines are you willing to cross? Who will you turn to when the ones that should be there for you aren't?
Lacey Kincaid is in search of her drug addicted, twin sister, Keeley. But every time she locates her, Keeley moves on. Now Keeley has disappeared without a trace and it's up to Lacey to find her before it's too late.
Even (pronounced Evan) a.k.a. E Strand is the youngest of three and by far the most dangerous. No, he isn't a badass like his oldest brother, Nik. Nor is he the most handsome like his brother, Alex. His danger lies in his personal preferences in the bedroom. Many know him as the Master and it is a title he deserves. Owner of numerous sex clubs as well as instructor of BDSM Even is fulfilled, until the night a dancer at one of his clubs catches his eye. She's innocent. Beautiful. Off limits. Yet he wants her for his own.
It doesn't take long for E to realize the woman he desires to dominate needs his help. As their journey to find Keeley runs into one dead-end after another, passion ignites between these two. But is it enough to bind them together forever? Or, will the bond between sisters keep the lovers apart? Can they free Keeley from the clutches of a madman in time? And if they do, will happily ever after be in their future?
Broken book 3
Learning to find strength in brokenness…
Fashion designer Sofie Fields may seem to have a perfect life from the outside. The wounds she carries are the emotional kind, and since she refuses to get close to anyone, they remain. She once knew a great love, but a sequence of events forced her into a choice she thinks is unsurvivable. A loveless marriage leaves her empty, damaged. The only light is the step-daughter she clings to and adores. After her divorce, Sofie is certain the love from her past is lost forever. A deathbed confession changes it all.
Alex Strand is a successful attorney and the middle child who is in one way or another helping out his brothers, Nik and Even. All the Strand brothers are known for their Viking-like stature along with good looks, but Alex is by far the one who turns the most heads. His movie star appearance coupled with laid back charm is beyond appealing, yet if one cares to look deeper they will see it’s a façade. Alex hides secrets well until the skeletons he’s kept begin to break out, one by one.
The game to catch a madman continues. Alex is desperately in search of evidence necessary to bring down Senator Caleb Reynolds once and for all. What he doesn’t foresee is how his past and present will collide with enough force to shake his foundation.
Hearts need to be mended.
Time is running out.
Obstacles are placed.
Do Alex and Sofie have what it takes to overcome?
Bliss Epilogue Novella
Obstacles must be overcome to find blissfully ever after.
Lacey Kincaid is more than ready to be Mrs. Even Strand. Of course things never come easy. She finds herself facing one final challenge.
E Strand is fighting a hellacious battle to be the husband, the Master Lacey deserves. Can he conquer in time to say his vows? Will E and Lacey find their bliss?
● For a limited time ONLY, this set is on sale for $3.99 and
will return to its full price by October 17, 2015. #Free on Kindle Unlimited
Boxset Amazon Link:
Branded Excerpt 18+
I focused on breathing and tried to keep my heart rate under control. There was no point in showing up soaked with sweat while I panted like I’d just run a marathon. I gave myself a mental pep talk: You can do this, Aimee. No worries. Everything’s going to work out fine. If I could only believe it was true. I considered praying but then thought that wasn’t such a great idea. Yes, I was only applying for an escort position; however, I knew God was fully aware of just how tempting the offer was to take it a step further. Right, nix on the praying. When the door to the limo opened, I was pulled from my musing. I stepped out onto a red carpet. Luckily, I was no one of significance or with anyone important; hence, the focus was on others that arrived at the same time. Thank goodness.
I was gathered swiftly into the throng and rushed inside. While I took in my surroundings along with all the marvelous attire, a waiter passed by with a silver tray of champagne flutes. I grabbed one and took a sip. In a matter of moments, I was swept onto the dance floor where one gentleman after another danced with me. I eventually needed a break and excused myself to the nearest powder room.
Upon my return, I did my best to observe—all to no avail. A deep voice whispered in my ear. “May I have this dance?”
A chill of awareness instantly shot up and down my spine. I swallowed the lump in my throat and fought the urge to lean into whoever he was. “Yes,” I huskily replied. What the hell is the matter with me? Never have I had such a reaction to a man. He stepped around me. Once I was in his arms, we began to waltz around the dance floor. He was extremely tall, and his broad shoulders stretched the fabric of his tux deliciously. I ran my tongue over my bottom lip. He didn’t miss the motion. Due to the full mask he wore, I couldn’t get a good look at his face. But I could see his eyes, which were a brilliant light blue. They reminded me of a glacier: sharp, intense, and very observant. There really wasn’t anything else visible on him. I did notice his hair appeared to be blond, maybe a shade or so lighter than mine, and long enough that he could tie it back with a black leather thong. Everything about the man screamed danger, so, of course, I was drawn to him like a moth to a flame. Confidence radiated off of him in waves. I was immediately reminded of how you could tell a man made love by the way he danced. Although I was not delusional, this man would not make love. No. He would fuck. The thought made me wet. All of a sudden, I became aware of several things at once: He inexorably danced me into the shadows while Michael Bublé sang, “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.” The actual performer was there live, and, honestly, I couldn’t imagine a better song for how I felt at that moment. The next thing I knew, he had pulled me through a door I never noticed before.
I looked up at him and inquired, “Where are you taking me?”
His lips curved up slightly as he replied, “Somewhere quiet.”
Oh, my word. I had let a complete stranger drag me away from everyone and everything. And damn, if the idea didn’t excite me more. You would think I’d be a bit more concerned about my safety. For all I knew, this guy was an axe murderer. Yet, for some reason, I completely trusted him. I knew he would never hurt me physically. Although I was quite sure, the man had left more than one broken heart in his wake.
We slipped into a small library/office. The room was dimly lit; thus, I reached over to turn on a lamp sitting on a side table.
“Don’t,” he murmured.
I really wanted to know how his voice truly sounded. So far, the few words he had spoken were all whispered; therefore, I couldn’t hear it clearly. I did catch a slight rasp with a hint of some kind of accent but nothing discernable. Gah! The man became more frustrating by the moment. I heard the door lock, and then he was in front of me. He caressed up and down my sides, nibbling along my neck. I leaned to the side to give him better access, all the while I made little mewling noises.
He suckled the tender spot just below my earlobe. “Tell me to stop if I’ve misread the attraction between us,” he demanded.
No way in hell I was doing that. The electricity was arcing between our bodies with a mind of its own. Instead, I begged for more. “Please.”
I felt his smile along my throat. “Right answer,” he groaned.
Review of Branded
Review by: Jennifer
(4 stars)
So, this was a bit of a mystery/fighter/billionaire/erotic story. This story had a whole bunch of sides to it. We start with Aimee, 5 years earlier who attends a masquerade. She is swept up by a mystery man and when they part ways, he assures her, he will find her again.
Fast forward 5 years, Aimee's life has taken a drastic change. She is now involved with a man that.... isn't good for her, and she is looking for a way out. Enter Nic, who comes in to save the day, so to speak.
Nic isn't looking for love, or even a relationship, but he knows he has to help Aimee with her situation so he offers her marriage; one in name only.
What happens when you realize you have to let go of the past and live for the present? Both Nic and Aimee push and run in opposite directions, will they ever run towards each other?
I found this story to have a whole lot going on. It had drama, hot steamy times, and some laughs. I plan on reading book 2 to see how the little bit of unsolved stuff gets resolved. I give this 4 stars.
Branded (Strand Brothers Series, book 1)
#Free on Kindle Unlimited
Bound Excerpt 18+
My eyes lit on the dancer that was mine as she moved her scantily clad ass to the Pussycat Dolls’ “Buttons.” I would do more than loosen her up. That was for damn sure. Fuck me. They were doing that chair scene and I immediately knew we would be replaying it in my playroom. My dick flinched at the thought. Down boy, let her finish the set. I adjusted the fly on my jeans. I’d had to change out of my ruined Armani, so I was beyond uncomfortable in the unforgiving denim.
I strode towards the hallway off the stage, pacing like a caged lion as I watched her move. God, she was fantastic. What I could teach her to do with those assets was making me even harder. As if that were possible. The dance had finally come to an end, and one by one the girls passed me. Stella winked on her way by, promise in her sexy sway. She had always been a flirt. I liked her and her boyfriend, one of the bartenders, Gary. She should’ve known me well enough by now that I didn’t mess around with another man’s woman. Plus, I wasn’t into threesomes. I inclined my head when she peeked back over her shoulder at me, acknowledging her flirtations would need to be discussed sooner rather than later.
All of a sudden the hairs on my body stood at attention—joining my erection—as the current of awareness slid over me. Sweet baby Jesus, what this woman did to me should’ve scared me shitless; instead, it made me want her more. I slowly turned just in time to place my body in direct contact with hers. My eyes closed at the intensity. Fire swirled in my gut as electricity sang in my veins. In a swift movement, I locked her in my arms and trapped her against the wall. Whoa, she was tall. With those four-inch CFMPs on, we were eye to eye. Such possibilities we had with that advantage. I leaned in, stroking her jaw with my teeth, as I lightly bit my way to her rosy, full bottom lip. She gasped at my forwardness when I sucked said lip into my mouth. Just what I need to make my entrance. I claimed her mouth with all the pent-up desire I had in me. Holy hell, she was as sweet as I had imagined. After a few minutes, I pulled back for air and clasped her hand, “My office,” I demanded, “Now.” At least one of my fantasies was being met tonight. Because I already knew, I wasn’t letting her go any time soon.
Please note: This book should not be read as a standalone due to the subplot tie in with Branded (Strand Brothers Series, book 1).
Review of Bound
Review by: Jennifer
(3.5 stars)
Ok so I didn't like this book as much as the first book. Not that it was a bad read, it had everything; death, BDSM, a killer, lost siblings, kidnappings, hot sexy time....the list can go on. Maybe that was my issue, that there was so much going on. Following on from book one, and seriously you need to read book one before this!! The "bad guy" is still on the loose and still kidnapping women. Aimee is still under guard as she is still in danger. The brothers are all still trying to solve problem.
Even, or E (yes the spelling is different, but it was only needed one time in reference not 5) is looking after his sister-in-law Aimee while Nic is away on business. Owning a club and being a Master, he is used to getting what he wants, and needs. One night he spots Lacey and from that point on that's all he can think about.
Lacey is looking for her sister, and she will do anything, even strip, to find answers. She feels E staring at her and from there the two fight their attraction two fold. She has no clue what BDSM is and E is willing to teach her, after a while that is.
What happens when they get in too deep in the search? What happens when Lacey is too scared to trust E with her heart? Will she find her sister? Will the "bad guy" be stopped?
Well you have to read to find out. I will say I did enjoy the sexy time scenes to a point. I did enjoy getting to see Aimee and Nic in this story as well. I just felt there was a bit too much going on, and quiet frankly it was a bit over the top for me; but that's why its a story. It took me too long to read this book as I found it a bit boring, I don't know why, I just did. I'm hoping for more from book three. I have to read it as I have already told my bestie xyz is going to happen in book three I bet you. But this one just fell flat, this is all just IMO. I give it 3.5 stars.
Bound (Strand Brothers Series, book 2)
#Free on Kindle Unlimited
Broken Excerpt 18+
I stood up in front of him, close enough that my breasts rubbed against his hard torso. Instantly, I was aroused and damn thankful I wasn’t a man. If I had been, an impressive erection would’ve given me away. The thought brought my eyes to Alex’s fly where sure enough a hard-on greeted me. Licking my bottom lip, I closed my eyes tightly and replied, “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”
On a growl Alex’s mouth was on mine, demanding I surrender to his entrance. Like hell I would. My palms came up between us as I placed them on his chest, fighting the undeniable awareness zinging through my fingertips. I shoved him back with all my might. He stumbled, yet recovered quickly. Through labored breath he inquired, “What do you want from me, Sofie?”
My chin jutted out with resolve. “Not one damn thing,” I affirmed, pushing past him towards the exit.
He was hot on my heels. “Don’t—”
I halted and rounded on him. “Don’t what, Mr. Strand?” His eyes widened, though I couldn’t tell if it was from ire or excitement. Wait! Had my challenge turned him on? “I don’t need you,” I nearly screamed.
He shot me a sly grin. “I beg to differ, Ms. Fields.”
I took a step backwards; there was no denying what I saw in his hooded gaze. Desire. Oh shit! I turned abruptly to make a quick escape but wasn’t fast enough. Damn his love for Muay Thai. He had me pinned to the wall in the hallway with my arms held firmly in his grasp. He leaned down and began a tortuous trek from my ear to the corner of my mouth, nibbling along my lips. “This is going to happen, kjære. I know it. You know it.” He paused and tenderly kissed me. The kind of kiss that messes with a woman, staking the claim: You. Are. Mine. Dammit all to hell…it was beyond unfair. I comprehended, and he did too—I was his. Always had been. Instead of deepening our kiss, he eased back and laced his fingers with mine. “Before we do anything else. Before our lives grow more chaotic. Before either one of us talks the other out of this, we are going to make love,” he declared with a sexy set to his jaw that caused me to soak my panties. God…damn man had a way of irritating the hell out of me while setting me ablaze. Self-preservation flew right out the window as I confirmed, “Yes.”
Please note: This book should not be read as a standalone due to the subplot tie in with Branded (Strand Brothers Series, book 1) and Bound (Strand Brothers Series, book 2).
Review of Broken
Review by: Jennifer
(3.5 stars)
Ok so at this point you should be aware that you must read books one and two before even attempting to read this one. The returning characters and plot are all following the same story arc throughout!
That said, this follows on the same line as far as major drama, kidnapping, BDSM, killing, abuse.... the list kind of goes on. It was like the author had all these thoughts going through her head for a story line and whereas other authors pick just one, she picked them all. I will say that my prediction from book 2 was right.
So this is Alex's story, and it is a second chance one. Alex and Sofie had a summer a long time ago, when they were young and went their different ways, but there was a good reason. This had the normal pull and push of lovers that are trying to deny who they want. Very AWESOME sexy time scenes, that is one thing I can say about the author, she knows her way around a bed, closet, office, .... they are all pretty much the same in the end LOL. You will get thrown some twists and turns that you didn't see coming. Like made me cry not see coming.
All in all it was an ok read, can those women just not stay put!! There is soo much I want to say but can't. So if a dark read, with lots of sexy time is something that appeals to you, try this series out. I give it 3.5 stars.
Broken (Strand Brothers Series, book 3)
#Free on Kindle Unlimited
Warning: This book is not a thriller. It is, however, one HOT read which contains a lot of sex, including BDSM, and graphic language. It is recommended for an 18+ audience.
Bliss Excerpt 18+
Aimee snapped her fingers in front of my face. “You in there?”
I blinked several times, bringing myself back to the adult toys-r-us party. “Sorry.”
Renée reiterated, “It’s all about the mindset. Own your sexuality and his.”
“Isn’t it about the power exchange?”
A wicked grin slid along her lips. “Hell yeah.”
Aimee’s eyes were lit with fire as she declared, “Make him. Whether it’s a Dom/sub or straight vanilla, power must change hands. We can’t both be in control at the same time.”
Sofie added, “Someone must lead and someone must follow for any relationship to work. You already lead him at times. I’ve seen it.”
“I do?”
“Damn girl, where have you been?” Aimee had an incredulous look as she continued, “That man fucking adores you.”
“I love him so much. I don’t want to let him down, y’know what I mean?”
Sofie smiled, “Not possible. News flash, he loves you too.”
Why I was so worried suddenly about E’s feelings disturbed me more than I wanted to admit. Could lack of sex be causing it? If so, was he struggling with all of this negative crap too? Time to remedy that. I really did respect his wishes to wait until our wedding night to have intercourse again. Part of me felt beyond honored that he wanted to. Fine line to walk, helping him stick to his vow while testing his virility. Geez, what was I thinking? Your soon to be husband needs to know he’s still a man. Right. Operation Domme-the-daylights-out-of-Even was now in full swing.
*****
Fully expecting to see Nik and Alex when I walked into the penthouse, surprise hit me at seeing E asleep on the couch. God he was beautiful. Not easy on the eyes handsome but light your lady parts on fire attractive. A heart-hammering kind of gorgeous, he really was sex on a stick. The fact he was a loyal, good, honest man added to his appeal. In case anyone ever thought he was tame, the tribal dragon tattoo would make them think twice along with his commanding presence. Never could there be a doubt he was in full control. His deep moan instigated my gaze to perform a full scan of his body, making sure he wasn’t in any pain. He was pushing himself too hard, but there’d be no reasoning with his stubborn ass. I turned to leave him in peace when he moaned my name. Easing closer, I didn’t miss the erection that greeted me.
“I’m right here, E,” I reassured, watching his reactions.
A low groan was followed by his hand stroking his straining length. Still completely lost in what appeared to be his erotic dream, he commanded, “Touch me, Lacey.”
Who was I to deny the man I loved? Besides, he needed to know that part of him worked. The doctor had assured us that the nerve damage would eventually heal. No time like the present to test it. Plus there was the yearning to have him in my mouth. The absolute necessity of ensuring he didn’t break his vow sat front and center in my mind as I placed my fingers over his. Intention to let him lead was there until I recalled Sofie’s office. He was asleep, so if it were an epic fail only I would know. Moving my fingers to his muscled thighs I directed, “My show. You’re going to do as I say, E.”
His penis grew harder and longer as his hand stilled. From the waistband of his gym shorts, his head broke free. I licked my lips at the sight and forced my gaze up to his tightly closed eyes. He was fighting for control. “Take off your shorts.” His brows furrowed at my order. “Do it. Now.”
Please note: This book should not be read as a standalone due to the subplot tie in with Branded (Strand Brothers Series, book 1), Bound (Strand Brothers Series, book 2) and Broken (Strand Brothers Series, book 3).
Review of Bliss
Review by: Jennifer
(4 stars)
So this was pretty much, the what happened after all the crap of book 3 went down. How was everyone healing both physically and emotionally. We got to hear from everybody not just E & Lacey.
E was hurt in book three, and is still dealing with the healing part. Lacey is preparing for their wedding. Alex, Sofie & Ari seem to be doing great. And Nic and Aimee.... well they still have their own little issues. I have a feeling we are in for a new story with Keeley and Tar, or at least I believe their should be one; talk about some issues there.
For the most part, it was a nice little check in with some very, very, hot steamy scenes.
I give this a 4.
Bliss (Strand Brothers Series, Epilogue Novella)
#Free on Kindle Unlimited
About Lora Ann
Lora is a Missouri native who relocated to California as a teen. She spent several years as an international flight attendant for a major airline, before taking on her greatest job ever, a stay-at-home mom. Now she resides in Kentucky with her family, and has taken on her newest adventure, writing.
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