Craving (Steel Brothers Saga Book 1)

Craving (Book 1, Steel Brothers) by Helen Hardt My emotions got me all over the place. My heart ached for Talon (both the young boy and the adult version of him). He's been through hell and back...and he's still walking through it on the daily basis. The physical pain might not be there anymore, but he is scarred for life and it was deeply etched into his soul. It was horrifying. He let all his demons consumed him...took over him, because it's the only thing he knew. He was determined to live within those raised walls, letting nobody in. Then... there was Jade. Although I greatly sympathize for what she's been through...it's not so easy to take all the pain, humiliation and God knows what else accompany it, of being left alone at the altar on your wedding day! But I think she is a strong, willed woman and she is just right for Talon. Love the strong pull they have for each other. They're like magnets! This is book 1 of the Steel brothers. My first book from Helen Hardt and although it ended in a cliffhanger, I enjoyed it and looking forward to read the second book. There is so much mystery unfolded and yet to discover in the next 2 books and I'm just glad they're all waiting on my Kindle now. This book is becoming more and more interesting and it's a hard-to-put-down kind of read. Then there's the new, interesting characters slowly taking part towards the end of the book that sure will play some major role on the next book...It's not just the hot sex between the characters, but the way the author plotted the story... it was consuming! This is way better than what I've expected. So I'm giving this a 5 stars and starting book 2 right away!

WOAH. I didn’t expect to love this book as much as I did. After all, it does end in the dreaded cliffhanger that many readers are opposed to. And in all honesty, I wasn’t sure what to expect because I haven’t read any of the authors previous books. However, this one totally ignited a flame inside me and tore me to SHREDS. It’s emotional (there are hints of sexual abuse), it’s angsty, and it downright pulls at every inch of your heart. It didn’t matter to me that it ended in a cliffy because it was that good. Plus, it helps that book two is not available! Anyway, I would certainly recommend this one. It’s pretty heartbreaking when you take in the whole story but I am hoping that once the story is finished (in book 3) that we will find that just because someone is broken doesn’t mean they can’t be fixed. I am totally crossing my fingers for Talon because I fell head over heels in love with him… So, this book is about a broken man and a woman that would do anything to fix him. The problem though is that Talon (the stories hero) doesn’t want someone to fix him. He is seemingly content to stay on his own and live his existence in solitude. This is what his initial reaction is anyway. But for some reason, he can’t seem to stay away from Jade… Jade is Talon’s sisters best friend. And after being left at the alter by her (now) ex fiancé, she needs and escape and going to friends small town home seems like the best option for her. When she first meets Talon she knows she is in for trouble. This man is the quiet and brooding kind, and getting close to him is difficult at best. But the two have a lot of chemistry even though they both deny it, at first… Both Jade and Talon will quickly steal reader’s hearts. The connection, the angst, and the overall vulnerability of the characters is quite beautiful. But buried secrets and harsh realities that test this couple will leave readers gripping the edge of their books and hoping and praying for a miracle for these two. So, if you love a book that will take you on a tough journey with the characters than I strongly suggest picking this one up. Right when I was finished I bought book 2 and book 3 will be out in September (I can’t wait). With all this being said, I will seriously be looking into more of the authors work.

Jade Roberts is at her best friend, Marj's, ranch in Colorado to start over. She may have been stood up at the altar during her wedding, but she isn't going to let that define her when she has a new career to embark upon. And when she meets Marj's brother, Talon, he immediately sets on her on edge and vice versa. Talon is a closed book in every way. He doesn't do pleasantries, love or anything that allows people to get close to him. He's got a past that haunts him and keeps him awake at night and finds it safer for everyone around him if he keeps his distance. Yet Jade can't resist in getting to know him, even as a friend, and Talon is powerless to hold back his desire. I really liked Jade right from the beginning. She's a down-to-earth heroine who has experienced some humbling and humiliating experiences, but hasn't let it drag her though the mud completely. She is very open, caring and giving, but she's not a pushover either. Talon, on the other hand, is a bit of an enigma. While this story has plenty of steam and heat with alternating POVs, there were times where it just didn't feel very natural in terms of connecting with the characters, particularly Talon. Not that Talon isn't likable, because it's obvious that he's broken on the inside and that elicits quite a bit of empathy, but his shifts in mood and personality were hard to keep up with because it lacked a seamless transition at times. Aside from Talon and Jade's relationship yet, the buildup of Talon's past and the background mystery really intrigued me to want to find out more. Plus, I am curious to see where Talon is headed next in terms of character development because I do foresee him turning a corner in a crucial way. And as for Jade, I admire her strength and hope she holds onto it for whatever new obstacles come her in her direction.

I haven't read a book like this in a while. I craved this story needing to know the details of Talon's past. The passion between Jade and Talon is so beautiful. There are so many strings undone right now I need to wrap everything up. Jade is a complete character who knows Talon is screwed up but still loves him. She wants to help him see through his past but I don't know if he ever will. His past is such a mystery and I'm dying to know what happened. We get little teaser bites but not the complete story and then the dangling candy at the end... come on... how could you leave us that way. I just want to devour the next story. I want more details. The book flowed well keeping my interest. Always a surprise in every chapter, things happened I didn't expect and I was kept on my toes throughout the story. I couldn't put it down. I need the next book. I crave the next story. Marjorie and Jade need to investigate more. I need to know the truth. They need to read more in the boxes... What a great story from this author. I look forward to the next book. Amazing!

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) Romance novels are known for their exciting plots, intriguing characters, and intense feelings. Helen Hardt's "Craving," the first book in the "Steel Brothers Saga," is an examination of the complexity of love and a tale of passionate attraction and lingering secrets. The sensual tension and genuine emotion of "Craving" are immediately captivating. Readers are immersed in Talon Steel and Jade Roberts' difficult journey thanks to the characters' sizzling chemistry. When Hardt strikes the right balance between smoldering intensity and raw emotion, she creates a compelling book that readers can't put down. Rich family estate and well kept secrets of the Steel family provide a fascinating setting for the story. The tension and growth in the story come from Talon's unwillingness to talk about his troubles and his shadowy history. Yet Jade, the protagonist, is a likable and strong-willed character who, in the face of her overwhelming connection to Talon, slowly reveals her own flaws. The scenes painted by Hardt's language are as sensual as they are emotionally explosive. The author goes deep into their psyches, letting readers in on their personal battles and deepest ambitions. The narrative pace is just right, allowing for both passionate and reflective scenes that help the reader feel more connected to the protagonists. The characters' chemistry and depth of feeling are undeniably strong points, but the film isn't quite ideal. The story occasionally falls into the trap of cliches typical of romantic novels. While the sensuality is a big part of the book's appeal, some readers may feel like it takes too much of a front seat at times. Even though the relationship between Talon and Jade is what propels the plot forward, there are interesting supporting characters as well. Layers of intrigue, hinted at by the dynamics of the Steel family and their web of links, will hopefully be revealed over the course of the series. But "Craving" concentrates mostly on the main romance, leaving open the possibility of additional examination in the sequels. "Craving" fits comfortably within the parameters of the modern romance genre. The novel celebrates the genre's themes of love, sacrifice, and self-improvement. While there are certainly more original ways to tell a story, "Craving" should appeal to anyone looking for a heartfelt love story. Overall, "Craving (Steel Brothers Saga)" is a passionate and heartfelt romance novel that successfully immerses readers in the turbulent love tale of Talon and Jade. The novel lives up to its billing as a page-turner thanks to its intriguing plot, vivid writing, and intriguing family dynamics. Those who enjoy a passionate and emotionally powerful love tale will find "Craving" to be a satisfying beginning to a series that promises more secrets and wants to be disclosed, despite its occasional predictability and focus on sensuality.

After being left at the altar Jade comes to stay at her best friend’s ranch and soon she and Talon her best friend’s brother start seeing each other. Talon had a horrible childhood that left him traumatized and won’t let anyone in. One night after having dinner with Talon something happens that Talon tells Jade that she has to leave the ranch and he doesn’t want to see her again.

Jade Roberts (25, attorney, law) had got dumped at the altar by Colin Morse. Grand Junction, CO. Talon John Steel (35, brother, former USMC, Iraq) came to pick Jade up. Angela Marjorie “Marj” Steel (25, sister, Jade’s BFF, agriculture/journalism), Jonah Bradford Steel (38, brother), & were glad to see her. Roger (mutt) was to. The Steel family were in the ranch/wine business & billionaires. Steel vineyards. Jade went to see how the wine operations worked. She met Ryan Steel (32, brother), & Marion. He gave her a job. Colin came to see Jade. Talon had beaten him up. Grand Junction, CO., Heritage Medical Group office # 524. Talon agreed to see Dr. Melanie Carmichael (psychologist). Officer Steve Dugan (Snow Creek PD) had a warrant for Talon’s arrest. People v Talon Steel. Jade would represent Talon. Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader. I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one. A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written western romance book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great erotic western romance movie, or better yet a paid-per-view mini TV series. To be continued. A very easy rating of 5 stars. Thank you for the free author; Waterhouse Press, LLC. 1 edition; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)

Okay, let's be honest, a lot of us romance readers are into these books for the blissful escape the stories provide. Sometimes a hot, sizzling, gloriously detailed sex scene is what we want. I think that was my biggest drawback. I love a good romp in the sheets but I actually found myself thinking, "Wow, another one." Y'all I'm totally okay with the leads not being able to stop touching each other 10 pages in, its fiction for heaven's sake. Beyond that the story was intriguing. Talon's story really did pull me in. Maybe because I'm a survivor and found myself remembering things I went through at 35 with years of therapy under my belt, but one reviewer was surprised by some of Talon's actions. I've learned through my own experiences that each survivor has their own way of coping and surviving especially if they've never gotten therapy. And I can't think of a less likely candidate for therapy than an 18/20 yr old boy strung out with confusion and fear, who then joins the Marines. Talon's behavior is typical for male survivors. Maybe I should say it's not surprising. Anyhoo, Jade is the one I have a hard time with. Mostly because very few 25 yr old women would tolerate Talon's behavior. Other than that, I found the story intriguing enough to make me late for work because I had such a hard time putting my kindle down. Here's my real gripe, I got this first book because I have Kindle Unlimited and it was free. What really frustrated the hell put of me was that I now have to buy books 2 and 3 to see how the story ends. Trust me, you have to reel in the reader with more than one book if you're going to require them to buy the others. I seriously may not bother at this point because I'm two or three books behind in other series and do not need to purchase those to see what my favorite characters are doing. And they are newer than books 1-3 of this series.

These books drag for too long. At roughly 4.99 a book and there's 21 of them it's ridiculous. Plus it really isn't worth it. Talon Steel, he is supposed to be complex and mysterious yet hes a walking creepy contradiction. He wants to have sex to deal with his "craving" for her. But ends up going back again and again. Jade is as dumb as a bag of rocks. She's not upset about being left at the alter, then not upset when her ex forcibly kissed her. When Talon is arrested it isn't even mentioned, them it completely dissapears in the next book. We can forget poor Marjorie, jade came to live and spend time with her but we've barely seen her, she's always sleeping. The author loves to repeat things especially that Talon has his walls up, I get that he suffered an appalling trauma but doesn't give him a pass for being a grade A tw*t that talks about how many women he's had. I mean, come on, damaged and troubled we get. But he only is nice to jade when he wants to have sex with her. This plot line has more holes than swizz cheese. This "author" lacks descriptive skills, they're on a whole frikken ranch with orchards, wine distillery and cattle ranch yet 80% of the book takes place in a kitchen, bedroom or the shower or Talons head. None of which the author could be bothered to describe... the cheap cliff hangars are cliché and rather irritating when it feels like the only way the author knows how to finish a chapter. Don't waste your money buying this book, or the other 21 in this drug out saga.

This is the first book I have read by Helen Hardt and it will not be my last. I was hooked from the first page and couldn't put it down. It does end in a cliffhanger but luckily book 2 is already out lol

WOW – HOT, HOT HOT!!! An extremely rugged and hot alpha male who’s damaged from his past and a strong willed, sweet female willingly ready to be his and help him to heal. If you enjoy very passionate love affairs and a deep story that’s addictive, then please grab a copy of Craving by Helen Hardt. *****5 STARS! This is the first book I have read by Helen Hardt and oh my- what a fantastic start! I absolutely adored this book and the love story it told. Please note that this is the first book in the Steel Brother Saga Series and this first book does end without a full explanation. I loved the story so much though, that I will most certainly be downloading the second right after I post this review. We are introduced to Jade our female lead, who after being stood up at the alter by her fiance decides for a change of life and moves to stay with her friend on her family ranch. Our male lead Talon, one of the brothers of Jades friend, is ten years older, extremely hot and somewhat dominant and very broken from a horrific experience that occurred when he was a child. Flashbacks of the event are shown throughout the book and whilst we get the ‘jist’ of what happened, it’s not yet fully explained in this first book. The chemistry between the two was clear from the start and the passionate sex scenes- well, what can I say? I loved them. Jade is very caring and patient and as much as Talon was a closed book emotion wise towards her, she never gave up on him and tried to understand him and I loved her for that. Talon, despite his flaws really seemed to care for Jade and had to battle many mental demons to continue his relationship with her. The thing I loved about this book was how deep the story runs. It wasn’t all about the relationship between the two main characters, there is plenty of other things going on too. The sub-characters were also well written and I am hoping to find out more about them throughout the rest of the series. I would recommend this book to any who likes the following: A broken, hot Alpha Male who you want to help A realistic love story Passionate love scenes Cliffhanger-ish ending Series Romances

Great start

wanting something thats easy to devoir ... pick this one you will not be disappointed