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Wicked Lovers #11

Falling in Deeper

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A tragic past threatens to destroy a passionate future in this dangerously sexy new novel from the New York Times bestselling author of Wicked for You.

After a violent tragedy nearly destroyed her, Lily Taylor ran away, changed her name, and started over. When her deadly nemesis resurfaces to eliminate his loose end, she turns to the last man she should trust—a stranger with a history of violence and an intoxicating sexuality she can’t refuse�

Though strong-armed into locating Lily to help put away a drug lord, ex-con Stone Sutter isn’t anyone’s snitch. When he finds the terrified beauty, he vows to keep her safe—but he isn’t sure he has the strength to shield her from his own desires.

As an unquenchable fire sparks between them, Lily’s tormentor stalks ever closer, and she must overcome her darkest fear to survive. Can she trust the bond she and Stone have formed as they’re falling in deeper?

330 pages, Paperback

First published July 5, 2016

197 people are currently reading
2861 people want to read

About the author

Shayla Black

169books9,955followers
Shayla Black is theNew York TimesandUSA Todaybestselling author of more than 100 contemporary, erotic, paranormal, and historical romances. Her books have sold millions of copies and been published in a dozen languages.

As an only child, Shayla occupied herself by daydreaming, much to the chagrin of her teachers. In college, she found her love for reading and started pursuing a publishing career. Though she graduated with a degree in Marketing/Advertising and embarked on a stint in corporate America, her heart was with her stories and characters, so she left her pantyhose and power suits behind.

Shayla currently lives in North Texas with her wonderfully supportive husband, her daughter, and two spoiled tabbies. Inher “free� time, she enjoys reality TV, gaming, and listening to aneclectic blend of music.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
Profile Image for Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾.
2,256 reviews13.5k followers
July 6, 2016
4 STARS

Why are you so patient with me?"
"Because you're worth it."


Swoon.
I just knew I'd end up falling hard for Stone Sutter, and I was definitely not wrong. He's definitely going up there with my top favorite heroes of the series (though admittedly Logan Edgington is still my #1). But I digress...

It's hard to believe that this is now book 11 in the series and it's still just as good if not getting better with each book. Stone, definitely caught my attention in . There's just something about this ex-con that piqued my interest and I knew that his book was going to be a good one. When I realized that his heroine will be none other than "Sweet Pea" aka Lily Taylor, I knew it was going to be even better than I thought. And again, I was not wrong.

Lily has a long standing history with Axel, but now that Axel is engaged to the woman he loves, she finds herself with a Dom she so desperately needs. But Lily is also hiding a devastating past. Going under a false name and running for her life, she doesn't think anyone at Dominion is on to her, but she's wrong. The men know who she is, and they know the danger she's running from. Stone has been intrigued by the shy beauty from the very moment he saw her, and he's not above using her dire situation to get closer to her and to protect her at the same time.
I don't want you any way except willing, panting, and begging."

This book packs quite an emotional punch compared to the last few in the series. Lily has been through so much devastation in her young life it's a wonder how she's even functional. She's been through so much, but there's still this inner core of strength beneath. She's a survivor, not a victim and that certainly comes out more and more as the story progresses. This is not a woman that blinks and is suddenly healed by the magic penis like you'd find in so many others. Her issues are deep rooted and take a while to work through. But man oh man did I love the way that Sutter works though them.
You might have a hundred ways to fool yourself, but I don't bother with that shit. I know better. You're it for me, and what we just did in that bed together proved it. I'm smitten. Gone. And I can't stand that you don't trust me.

I adored Stone. Simply adored him. He's not perfect but the way he pursues Lily gave me too many swoons to count. He was this perfect balance of sweet yet edgy. Everything that came out of the man's mouth was pure perfection.
You just got out of prison. I'm not worth you risking your freedom."
"You are to me. I would move mountains to give you happiness and peace."

The story itself was definitely an enticing one. There's a bit of everything intrigue, suspense, a little action and certainly a whole lot of steam. It wouldn't be a Wicked Lovers book if there wasn't. But it was so much more than that too. It's a deeply emotional love story about healing and moving on. It's about finding your own strength and fighting back. It has that signature sexiness that I've come to except from a Shayla Black book, but it was more than just a sexy romance. The ending was a bit a bit predictable but I enjoyed it nonetheless.

This series is a long running guilty pleasure of mine that I hope never ends. I can't wait for the next installment.

ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review

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Profile Image for XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy.
1,530 reviews495 followers
July 3, 2016
I always wondered what the deal was with Sweet Pea as she cameoed in other stories, especially in Axel's telling. She was under the protection and care of Axel when he fell in love with another woman. Lily has gone through some traumatic events that have shaped who she is as we get to know her. She is very slow to trust and needs the structure and care that a dominant provides. She is hiding from her past but unfortunately, nothing can stay hidden forever. Stone enters her life as he is forced to seek her cooperation in an investigation. He has always been intrigued by the shy beauty and uses the opportunity to his advantage. As their story begins to unravel, the trust they have begun to form is put to the test. The plot is very interesting with good twists. The author does a good job of addressing some sensitive topics such as rape and abuse as well as physical/emotional needs and the separation or fusion of the two. With Stone, Lily gets to experience for the first time what it is to be loved, wanted, and needed for herself. Her awakening in that aspect is beautiful to behold. The story is written well when it comes to the love/emotion scenes but also when there is action and a hint of suspense as the tale unravels. I have read most of the series and found this to be a great addition. I am eagerly looking forward to the next tale. It seems a bit of a seed was planted with Cutter/One-Mile and I want to see what that grows to be. Safety: No OW/OM/Sharing. Neither are Vs. There is rape/abuse.

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jacqueline's Reads.
2,986 reviews1,522 followers
July 5, 2016
4 Running Away Stars

Falling in Deeper is a standalone and is part of the Wicked Lovers series. This is Lily and Stone’s story.

I have to say, Falling in Deeper is probably one of the darkest books in the series. I haven’t read the entire series, but I’m working on it.

Falling in Deeper has all the elements of a good book, with a damsel in distress, secondary characters from the previous books and a broody Hero. It will put a smile on your face. Lily is on the run. She changed her name and doesn’t want to deal with her tragic past. And let me tell you, it’s REALLY tragic. This poor girl has endured so much and because of that she’s kind of messed up.

Stone isn’t your cookie cutter man. He’s an ex-con and has a past. He knows he isn’t good enough for Lily but that’s not going to stop him from protecting her and helping her with her mega issues. I really liked Stone. He’s so over bearing, bossy and really in your face. I love that he pushes Lily and it makes the chemistry between Stone and Lily much more intense.

“Protecting you is my first and only priority�


Lily can’t be with a man fully, because of her past, she has inner scars and it’s something she wants to overcome badly. She has trained with Axel, who is from the previous book. Stone knows Lily can submit, but he wants her to submit to him fully. These scenes were off the charts hot. Stone works with Lily in opening old wounds and pushing her submissive side. It’s really sweet too.

The book gets a bit darker when Lily talks about her past and I keep on telling myself, this is all

fiction because it’s so sad and I didn’t want to get sad. Shayla Black really knows how to play with your emotions.

Overall, if you love the series, you will not be disappointed with Falling in Deeper.

An ARC was provided



Profile Image for Anna's Herding Cats.
1,274 reviews315 followers
July 11, 2016


Reviewed for .
Amazon:

Yum! Sexy and suspenseful! Falling in Deeper was mouthwatering romance that hit all the good spots. Sexy hero, resilient heroine, luscious and emotional sex scenes, a little danger, and some surprises along the way, too. Gah! Yeah, it was a fun ride!

The quick of it is that Stone, well, he messed up a while back and landed himself in prison and he's been given that out. If he can convince a reluctant on-the-run witness to testify against a politician with a dark past they'll wipe his record clean. He just has to keep Lily safe from those that are after her and win her trust. If he has to learn to be a Dom and get real close to her to do so? He. Is. In. This girl doesn't for him completely.


I really loved both Stone and Lily. Stone has a slightly shady past but has turned his life around and is trying to be a better man. He's sexy, solid, all alpha male but has an incredibly gentle touch, too. And Lily. The girl is a survivor. Her past truly fucked her up but she never gave up fighting to survive. I loved that about her. She's damaged and slow to trust and just made me ache for her. I really liked them together. Things move very quickly and the L-word was used a little fast for my liking but it actually worked out okay.

And the sexy. Lordy yeah. These two had some sexy happening. There's that instantaneous spark that just crackles and pulls you in to this sensual whirlwind between them. The things Lily had been through in the past gave her some bad hangups when it came to sex and some of the scenes really just hit hard. They're emotional and intense and watching her overcome everything was something. And totally had me falling for Stone.

The suspense was working for me too as these two try to outrun her past. Got my hands sweating now and again and caught me by surprise as well which is always interesting. Gotta say I was pretty okay with some people being killed in this one. I really was. Whew! There may have been a cut your nose off to spite your face moment or two with the heroine but those were fairly minor moments of complaint when it came to the suspense side.

All in all, Shalya Black rocks some sexy suspense. Falling In Deeper was one of those reads that'll heat you up, get your pulse pounding, and leave you begging for more. The alpha males in this series are just...that...good.


~~updates~~

4/11-- Cant' wait...can't wait...can't wait!


Profile Image for Jess.
1,067 reviews157 followers
July 22, 2016
I'm done with this series. The heroine was immature and made stupid decisions, and I wanted to toss my kindle on the floor.

I can't remember the last book in this series that I really enjoyed, time to move on.
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews487 followers
July 5, 2016
Running away and changing her name after witnessing a violent act, Lily Taylor’s found a home with her Club Dominion family. Not one to trust easily, Lily doesn’t get close to anyone—ever. But when Lily’s found by her nemesis—the person she’s been running from—the last person she should turn to is Stone Sutter. But there’s just something about Stone that Lily can’t stay away from—something big. Something like comfort and hope.

Stone Sutter knows he should be keeping Lily at arm’s length. But he can’t, especially when her safety is at stake. Stone will stop at nothing to keep Lily safe from the drug lord she’s been hiding from. But can he convince Lily to help put the drug lord away for good—can he convince Lily that he’s for real and not in it just to save himself?

God, I love this Wicked Lovers series. I love how Ms. Black immerses her readers into her character’s world. I felt as if I was sitting at the bar at Club Dominion watching as all the action transpired—and holy moly, is there A LOT to watch at Club Dominion.

I loved the dynamic between Lily and Stone, too; how Stone insinuated himself as her protector and Dom. Loved how the rest of the Doms also viewed themselves as Lily’s protectors—and how Stone had to prove his “worthiness� to them as well! LOL.

And let’s talk about the sexy times—the patience and support Stone provided to Lily so she could and would trust him. Swoony. Sexy. Hot. *Sigh* The next book in this series just can’t come fast enough. ~ Missy, 5 stars
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews862 followers
July 5, 2016
Kimber and Shadow's reviews posted at


I have been reading and enjoying The Wicked Lover’s series by Shayla Black going back several years. As with all book series, you have ones that hit the mark and really resonate with you and Falling In Deeper is one of those books for me. It’s now up there with my favorites in this series. I loved everything about this enthralling, sexy story from start to finish. It kept me guessing and I was surprised on more than one occasion which is something I’m looking to happen when reading Romantic Suspense.

We’ve met and gotten to know a little about Sweet Pea (Lily) in a few of the previous books and I’m glad to finally have all the details of what’s been going on with her and the awful incidents where she ended up hiding out at Dominion the last few years. Lily has been especially secretive regarding her past, however the time has come for her to step up and face her painful past head on, or risk others being hurt by the same person who did unspeakable things to her. Thing is, she’s really gun-shy and doesn’t trust very easily and although she’s being protected at Dominion, she’s never been able to fully open up about exactly what happened to her seven years previous. That’s where the sexy Stone Sutter comes in. Since first meeting Lily months prior to this story taking place, there was something about her that drew him in. He never forgot about or gave up on seeing her again. He did need her help but he also wanted to get to know her on a different level. In order to do that, he was going to have to break down some of her walls. Lucky for him some of the fellas at Dominion (BDSM club) taught him a few techniques that might help him earn her trust.

It’s really hard to talk about the story without giving anything away, but I will say there are several plot twists and there is a perfect balance of emotion and steamy hot sex. The characters have great chemistry and it was fulfilling to watch them bond and at the same time, heal. Maybe I enjoyed it so much because they spent a great deal of their “getting to know each other� time at Jack’s cabin in the bayou. OOHH at the memories I have of the cabin. There must be something magical about that place. Falling in Deeper not only kept me on the edge of my seat, it reminded me why I fell in love with the Wicked Lovers series in the first place.

Shadow's 4.5 star review
Once Stone Sutter lays eyes on Lily Taylor, known to the inhabitants of the BDSM Club Dominion as Sweat Pea, he knows he has to have her. It doesn't even matter that getting her to testify against Timothy Canton will keep him out of jail.

But Lily has been running for a long time and other than her friendship with Axel, has stood on her own two feet. She's not willing to turn her life and protection over to an ex-con, even though the electricity between them is palpable.

When her car blows up, Lily agrees to hide out in the swamp with Sutton until officials can find and deal the monster of her childhood.

Can Sutton use the time alone with Lily to convince her that they can be more than friends-and how will she handle the betrayal when she finds out why he originally contacted her?

This was one of those rare books where the sex actually got in the way of the story. Sutton uses the attraction between them to build a relationship and works to have Lily open up to him. Almost the entire time in the cabin is spent with the two of them in bed, while the reader waits for the other shoe to drop. Will Canton find Lily before the feds find him, will Axel arrive to interfere with the couple, and is there another bad guy lurking in the wings?

I like Sutton for the most part-he paid a heavy penalty for a juvenile mistake, and he really did care for Lily and wanted the best for her. He needed a slap on the head about honesty, but otherwise was a character to warm to.

Lily herself is brave, loving and has a poor view of herself that Sutton is able to reverse.

Overall, a most enjoyable read with good characters, an intriguing plot (if a bit slow) and lots of hot sex.

Review copy provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Shayna.
1,812 reviews615 followers
July 2, 2016
Shayla Black's brilliance really shines through in FALLING IN DEEPER! Every emotion...every feeling...every touch was palpable. The passion, the intensity, the emotion flew off of every page, reminding us what a WICKED genius Shayla Black really is.

"I can't even tell you how much I think you'll be hurting me." Those dark eyes of his seemed to take her apart without a word. Before she could stop him, he brushed his thumb over her bottom lip.

"I can't even tell you how much I think you're wrong."


What can I say that I haven't already gushed about in other reviews I've done for Shayla Black's work? I know I tell readers all the time that I have favorite series, favorite authors, favorite characters, etc...but, nothing holds more truth to that than the Wicked Lovers Series. Plain and simple, Black's books - her characters, her intense, sexy, and suspenseful storylines, take me to my happy place. Time and time again, I loose myself in this passionate world she creates. Each book bringing us amazing and damaged characters that you just want to root for 'til the very end. Lily and Stone are great examples of this. Their deep connection gives us readers hope from the very beginning. Their passion when they're together makes us blush from head to toe. The dirty talk, the sweet talk, the witty banter...all of it just makes me sigh with such contentment that I never want it to end.

"I will fight for you," he vowed. "I will do everything in my power to keep you."

See what I mean? Stone Sutter is one ex-con that I can get on board with, for sure! Nothing has me rushing to bed super early, like a Shayla Black romance. I fall in love with every word, every chapter, and every book she releases. Shayla Black is one of the greats, and if you haven't read anything written by her, you are missing out on so much epicness! The WICKED LOVERS series is every romance reader's dream come true.



*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for JB's Book Obsession - Jennifer.
465 reviews21 followers
August 7, 2016
A tragic past threatens to destroy a passionate future in this dangerously sexy new novel from the New York Times bestselling author of Wicked for You.

Lily Taylor is running from a man who is set on destroying her. Years ago she witnessed her best friends horribly beaten, raped and killed by a monster. Since then Lily has been on her own trying to stay in the shadows. When she settles in Dallas she meets the men and women of Club Dominion they quickly become her family. But can Lily ever really trust anyone? Will her past catch up with her and threaten to take more of the people she cares about from her life? Should she put her life in the hands of a convicted felon with a violent past?

Stone Sutter is a desperate man, he made a deal with the FBI in order to get an early release from prison. All he has to do is convince a traumatized woman to testify against the man who brutally murdered her best friend right in front of her. Stone figured, seduce the sweet, shy Lily and get her to testify leaving him to walk free. But he didn’t know that behind Lily’s shy demeanor is a spit fire. Her bravery and loyalty to her friends draws him to her in a way no woman ever has. Stone wants Lily and he plans on keeping her.

I really enjoyed this book, I haven’t read all the books in the series but I was still able to follow along with this book without getting lost. The BDSM aspect was well written as I would expect from Shayla Black. The sex scenes where steamy and sexy keeping me glued to the page.

I loved Stone his love for Lily was undeniable and wanted to protect her and keep her safe. It took me a little getting used to Lily, I loved her bravery but sometimes her indecisiveness through me. But by 40% in I began to love her with Stone and realized they were a perfect match.

As Lily and Stone go into hiding alone together their attraction grows. Stone tries to take things slow with Lilly using her submissive tendencies to bring her out of herself. But as he does this he only falls deeper in love with her leaving him with a decision to make to choose love over freedom.
I hadn’t read one of the books from the Wicked Lovers series in a while I stopped at Ours to Love book seven for no particular reason. Reading this book has gotten my blood pumping to go back and read the installments I missed. Ms. Black draws us in this world and unconventional family that is the Club Dominion members and we love reading about them.

RECEIVED AN ARC IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
Profile Image for Jessica.
102 reviews11 followers
July 6, 2016
Breathtaking, passionate, sexy, sinful and suspenseful!

After witnessing a gruesome act of violence Lily changes her identity and runs. She doesn't trust easily and she is very closed off. Getting close to people is not something she never does. However, once she is found by the man that is her personal nightmare, she turns to Stone Sutter. Lily soon finds out that there is something about Stone that she cant stay away from, no matter how much she wants to.

How long can Lily block out the one person that brings you comfort? How long can she deny the feelings of hope that he invokes in her?

Stone is a hero that I just couldn't help but fall in love with. He is mysterious ex-con who is dark around the edges, but he has a heart that is crafted from gold. He was born to be a protector, so he will do anything to keep Lily out of harms way.

Is it possible to keep his distance and save her at the same time? Does he really want to stay away or does he know that Lily has the power to steal his heart?

I loved loved loved the dynamic between Lily and Stone. Not only is Stone Lily's protector he is also her Dom. I also adored that the other Doms at Club Domination considered themselves Lily's protectors and made Stone had to prove that he is worthy of her.

Shayla Black packed this novel with as much emotion and steaminess as possible. I cried for everything that Lily had to endure. All of her pain she faced made the way that Stone treated her sigh worthy. His compassion and kindness towards her gave her a life again.

Ms. Black weaved together an unforgettably passionate story that will touch the hearts of many. To call Falling in Deeper a great story would be an understatement.

*5 Heartfelt Stars*
**ARC provided to Books Need TLC in exchange for an honest review**
Profile Image for Ang -PNR Book Lover Reviews.
1,766 reviews146 followers
May 12, 2016
Falling in Deeper by Shayla Black

Falling in Deeper, is part of the Wicked Lover Series, I was reading these back in my 20’s and I l loved them.

It was seriously a delight to go back to read a Shayla book, who doesn’t love going back to something you used to hire out from the library when eBooks were just a thought!

Falling is about Stone and Lily, I really enjoyed them as a couple and apart. They had brilliant sexy chemistry. Who doesn’t love that right? Shayla has a talent, I loved reading about these two!

Lily is our shy and sweet girl and Stone is a sexy bad boy ex con * hellllo hotness* and together with the secondary characters made perfection!

Amazing, passion and it was low angst drama. Totally #angfriendly
Flawless writing as always, overall fantastic read!

4 Stars, recommend to everyone, can be read as a standalone.

Ang
PNR Book Lover Reviews
Arc, provided by the publishers
Profile Image for Bitchy.
1,009 reviews16 followers
January 2, 2020
DNF.... no, just fuck no! If I cant connect with any of the characters, the story is a waste. And I definitely cant CONNECT with these people.This entire situation is beyond fucked. These men, this little clan and their whole life is just disturbing. Especially how they choose to deal with Lily's situation. Being a submissive and wanting to be owned,like some kind of material things, is sick. Having your owner run your life and make all your choices and decisions is twisted. Sorry not sorry.
Profile Image for Pam Nelson.
3,738 reviews117 followers
October 30, 2020
Sweet Pea yay! I was so glad this was the next character because of the book before I wanted her to find someone who was just right for her. Axel was great but he wasn’t what she needed.
Before I move on from that, I just wanna say the way they portrayed Axel I didn’t like well in this book he wasn’t her boyfriend he was her DOM and he did what he thought she needed.

Now do I think she is better suited for Stone for sure! I liked him from the get go!

Great story great narration.
Profile Image for Barbara Ingram.
533 reviews10 followers
July 15, 2016
Title: Falling in Deeper
Author: Shayla Black
Series: Wicked Lovers #11
Publisher: Berkley
Reviewer: Barb
Release Date: July 5, 2016
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance, Light BDSM, Murder
Page Count: 368
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5

Review:

5 Stone’s Sweet Pea Stars

I have only read 2 of Shayla Black’s books, from The Doms of her Life series, and loved them, so I was intrigued to read Falling in Deeper, although it is book 11 in the series. I was just a little lost in the beginning trying to put together references to events that happened in previous books, but it all came together.

Stone is an ex-con entrusted to persuade the young witness of a horrible crime to testify against a man who is now seeking the office for Governor of California. Lily, or Sweet Pea, has been running for 6 years to escape the horrors of her past, her little angel, Regina Rose, and the evil man who brutally murdered her mother, little brother and her best friend in an attempt to keep her quiet. Lily does not give out her trust easily and it takes quite a lot for Stone to earn it from her. After a close call, near death experience, Stone takes her away to hide in a cabin, where he slowly breaks her walls down. Her sexual experience is very limited, which makes Stone rise to the challenge and boy does he! Lily has never experienced such passion before and can’t get enough of Stone! This is where you will need a fan to cool off!

“And just so you know, the cabin comes with a fully equipped playroom. Have fun.�

“This is how I want you.� His dark, deep voice filled her ear - and her head. “Wet. Eager. You’re aching, aren’t you?� “Yes, Stone.�

As Stone and Lily are cocooned in their lust and love nest, the murderer is upping the stakes in trying to find her. Then her former Dom, Axel, comes into the picture and tears Stone and Lily apart with a misinterpreted reveal that makes her feel so betrayed.

“I’m not a thing or a possession. Or a trophy,� she hurled at them. “I’m a woman with a heart that used to beat.�

So what happens? Does the murderer succeed in eliminating Lily? Who from Lily’s past also wants her dead? Does Stone go back to prison? 1-click this latest Wicked Lovers book to find out the answers, you won’t be disappointed!

ARC provided in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Barb from
Profile Image for Caitlin.
1 review
October 8, 2017
Shayla Black is one of my FAVORITE erotic novelists, especially on the subject of BDSM and Dominants and Submissives. I feel like she really understands the dynamic and writes the scenes in new and creative ways that make me read more of her novels hoping for similar dynamics of characters and scenes of that nature. This book however, was so disappointing to me. I have read all the other Wicked Lovers books and the first couple were by far my favorite. As the texts have progressed, I feel Black has strayed more from the sexual scenes and has tried to branch into more "dynamic and complicated plot". Unfortunately, I don't think this skill is honed in yet and in some of the novels it doesn't translate well. I can usually look past it (as in the previous novel) because the sex and the relationship are so strong and alluring, but this one as a survivor of sexual assault, was unbearable. even though the malicious characters did not succeed- was so wrong when we all know we read her books for the amazing sex and to help us relax!! (Not for dynamic plot and action scenes.......). Overall, I won't be reading this ever again, and I didn't even dog-ear some of the sex scenes to return to later because of the previously mentioned "spoiler" information. I'm hoping the next one is better but I may have to just reread the previous 10 main novels and forgo the future if the sex keeps dwindling and the terrible action scenes increase. (I'm rooting for you Shayla! Go back to the sex parts!)
Profile Image for Alphas Do It Better Book Blog .
3,598 reviews107 followers
July 8, 2016
4 Stars

Lily Taylor, also known as Sweet Pea, has been running for years from her past. She is being hunted by a criminal and the FBI wants her to testify against him. She has tried before and people get hurt. Stone Sutter is a hacker who's been given a "get out of jail free" card. He just has to convince Lily to testify, but it's harder than it looks because Lily doesn't trust easily and has absolutely no reason to trust him. She trusts her former Dom, Axel but that took years to build. Stone realizes he is going to have become more to Lily than Axel or he won't be able to help her. Time spent together with Stone dominating her begins to build her trust and the fact that he is the first man she's really been attracted to helps. When her past catches up with her, she has to decide if she is going to let him help or if she'll keep running.
I was more impressed with this book than I have been with Shayla's recent books. Stone is a good guy even though he's a criminal. He's not the ex-military/mercenary type that uses physicality as his main defense. His Dom style is physical but not overpowering. Lily is a stronger female character, less overly dramatic and childish. She is afraid of her past but it isn't paralyzing her with fear. Stone and Lily are a good combination; both have a mature outlook and it isn't like Stone is having to protect a little girl. My two recommendations for this series are 1. Just because this series has a BDSM club as a setting doesn't mean everyone has to be a Dom or a sub.There are other kinks out there too. 2. Write more adult female characters. It would be nice to have a female character that's not 22. Thirty year olds, hell even 40 year olds need saving too!

Review by Michelle C
Profile Image for Once.
2,344 reviews80 followers
July 18, 2016
The story: This is yet another awesome story by Shayla Black. It was a book I could not put down from start to finish. It's starts with Lily Taylor witnessing something so horribly violent that she high tails it out of town. She ends up getting a completely different identity and tries to stay low key but quickly realizes she's needs some help. That help is from the one and only, sexy ex con, Stone Sutter.

The likes: I LOVE Lily. She has been through so much and witnessed such violence, yet stays strong through it all. I like that there are previous characters make cameos in the book but enough detail is given to be read as a standalone. I do however, recommend reading the entire series. I love how protective Stone is of Lily. Stone is one of the sexiest Doms in a book that I have read to date. I don't typically gravitate towards books with BDSM but I really enjoy Shayla Black's writing. She writes amazing chemistry that seriously makes you need ice and a fan. I felt like I was at the edge of my seat the entire time.

The dislikes: I am not a fan of insta-love and there was a little bit of insta-love in this story that didn't work for me personally. I really didn't have much to complain about with this book. I thought the book was written very well. Shayla always delivers an amazing story and this story was no different

The rating: I rate this book 4 stars because it was such a good book. I loved the amount of intensity and passion that leapt off the pages. I definitely recommend this entire series! I personally like knowing the back stories and what happened previously in the series. However, it not necessary to have read every book to keep up with this book

Profile Image for Renee Entress.
5,509 reviews76 followers
July 11, 2016
4.5 star

I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, pain, suspense, twist & turns, seduction, secrets, lies, betrayal, and heartbreak.

This is Lily and Stone’s story. Lily ran away and was starting over. When her past comes back for her she turns to Stone for help. Little does she know Stone was looking for her but he will he turn her in? Stone is trying to keep Lily at arm’s length but can he? The chemistry between these two is off the charts. Stone will keep Lily safe no matter what. But will he get her help to put away the bad guys? Or will all the danger make her run again? Can she trust anyone to help her? Or is she truly on her own to save herself?

I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.

I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
Profile Image for Kristen Holt.
Author4 books6 followers
October 9, 2016
2.5 stars

It seems I'm in the minority here, but I did not love this book as much as everyone else seemed to.

And really, the only reason I didn't like it was because of Sweet Pea, aka Misty, née Lily.

So, when you find yourself in danger from a sociopathic murderer and rapist, do you keep yourself safe by staying with a group of Doms inside a BDSM club - probably one of the most secure places on he planet? No! You run, of course!

And when you're safe in a swamp with a Dom wannabe, and two real Doms, do you stay put and let them protect you? No! Naturally, you run again!

She put herself in danger - twice, and though obviously too stupid to live, lived to tell the tale.

Also, the instalove - I just wasn't buying it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sophia.
Author5 books391 followers
dnf-set-aside-for-later
May 9, 2017
You guys are going to bean me over the head since these are generally enjoyed books/series, but I read four or five chapters and just couldn't keep going or get into this one. I love romantic suspense and a well-written erotic scene can make me squirm in a good way. This writer has been good for both on occasions with me. I've read a handful of her Wicked Lovers series and enjoyed a few of them.

But, this go around, I kept getting hung up on the overall romance. They were only together a short time and the romance was deep- and they were in a dire circumstance and there were secrets and yet, here we had a deep romance going on. Even though I liked individual scenes and liked the hero a lot, but that over all romance development was a niggling thing for me. So, I'm putting it aside for now. or maybe longer if ever. We'll see.
Profile Image for Susan Liberty.
Author17 books30 followers
June 13, 2021
Falling in Deep by Shayla Black is a beautifully crafted love story.


Lilly Taylor has no shortage of traumatic experiences in her past. Broken emotionally by a drug lord who she thinks is trying to kill her, she goes into survival mode, finding refuge at a BDMS club. Then, Stone Sutter enters her life: Lilly’s savior.


Domineering, bad boy Stone Sutter started out with his own agenda: a get out of jail free card. However, his plan quickly shifts when the love bug bites him.


The author’s characters are exceptionally well developed. The reader is given a clear view of the personalities of Lilly, Stone, Axel, and Jack. The settings are wonderfully executed: the swamp and playroom are described in vivid color. I was pulled in by each scene. The action is heart-pounding. The chemistry between Lilly and Stone is sizzling; their love scenes are intense and hot. Finally, I was taken in by the crazy plot twist. I didn’t see it coming, and then when it happened, it was like an ah-hah moment. Genius! Five stars!
Profile Image for Jules Tai.
91 reviews8 followers
May 20, 2017
Fast-paced thriller
I seem to be going through this series backwards. I did this as an audio as I’m a HUGE fan of anything narrated by Christian Fox! If you’re considering an audio � just do it :)

I loved this book. It was a fast-paced, suspense filled story of Lily who was dealt a bad hand when she was a teenager and has been hiding from her past ever since. Survival is the name of the game, but in doing so she has not moved forward in her life merely existed and survived despite having doms look after her.

Stone is the ex-con who intends to help her move forward. He even trains to be a dom to build trust with her.

Let the adventures begin�
Profile Image for Nella ☾ of Bookland.
1,051 reviews113 followers
July 21, 2021
4.5 stars

As per usual, I flew through this book in one sitting, and boy, it was so much more emotional than I bargained for. My eyes watered a bit, not gonna lie. But also, the insta-love was definitely incredulous and Lily got on my nerves sometimes.
Profile Image for Desirae (Dee).
1,074 reviews59 followers
March 8, 2017
*arc provided by the publisher for an honest review*

if you're a fan of this series, you knew Misty/Sweet Pea must've had a messed up life with how she reacts to people. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that Shayla Black would give her that messed up of a past. She's witnessed and been through things that would give even the strongest male nightmares and heart break.

but yet, when you bring Stone and Lilly/Misty/Sweet Pea together , ulterior motives or not, she blossoms for him. He's the one she's been needing. He was the key to her getting out from under the trap her mind and past had her under. and while they're falling in love and she's healing , her past is out to find her and hot on her tail. but... things just aren't what they seem. Then in comes Axel to ruin, I meant save, the day. only you don't save it Axel, and I wanted to take a paddle to your behind. I found myself getting slightly irritated with these people. Why does everyone meddle in this poor girl's life? Well, I know why. But ...ahem , Axel.... couldn't and didn't even wait to see what she was like with Stone. He just got all conclusion jumpy.

I love how Shayla gives us such strong Doms, and they're so open emotionally with their women. we get to see that soft vulnerable side to them. it's addicting. much like the series they are all from. I'm so surprised with the wrench Shayla threw in on this one, but so glad with how she had Lilly react. no more broken girl for her!
628 reviews2 followers
April 25, 2019
Lily ha perso tutto ciò che amava, perciò scappa in cerca di una nuova vita, pur sapendo che il passato sarà per sempre impresso nel ricordo.
Cosa può accadere quando conosce Stone un Haker al servizio dell' FBI e il passato ritorna? Sarà vendetta o rinascita?
Una trama ben congeniale e personaggi ben impostati, non manca la suspense nella fluidità di scrittura, qualche scena di BDSM ma non scabrosa.
Lo consiglio
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