Losers: Part 1: Losers, Book 1

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Probably more than I should have, but who cares. I did read the short, The Dare, prior to reading, and I agree that it should be read before this book.Though it isn't necessary for the story, if you want the extra fun with no spoilers, it definitely needs to be read first. Glad that I did. The world building in this book is on point. The reader really gets a feel for the town, the division, the anger, the attitude. You can really picture the kind of town it is and it's people. The author does a great job of showing the reader the settings, not telling the reader. The character development was fairly well done. I feel as though Jess and Manson are the most well fleshed out of the characters, but I do admit that may also be a result of having read The Dare first, since these two characters were the majority of that short. Jason, Lucas, and Vincent didn't feel quite as fleshed out, at least initially. Toward the beginning of the story, it was a bit difficult to keep them a part. They each acted very similarly, spoke similarly. However, as the story progressed, they really seemed to become individuals. Jess also experiences, in my opinion, the most character growth throughout the story. She really starts to think for herself, begin to understand herself. That said, there is still good character growth of all of the main characters, such as with Lucas and his feelings. And of course there is also the story itself. A great premise, I think. Fun,…

I’m one of those pain in the butt readers that likes to be contrary and assumes popular books are overhyped. I’m usually correct about this, but not this time. I was happily beyond impressed by Losers:Part 1 by Harley Laroux. The story is so interesting because there are time jumps and they aren’t just in high school. I’m really not into academy/high school/even college set books. No shame on liking them, they just never work for me. Anyways, it was interesting to see the past between Jess and the four guys. I like that she was a bully, but smart enough and aware enough to not be a damsel in distress when her past actions come back to haunt her. It’s rare to find a book with a high level of smũt and an actual plot. Not only did this book have an intriguing and twisting plot, but there was dynamic character development. Lots of fun schminks explored and I enjoyed the scenes, even if they aren’t my preferred type of play. I highly recommend for fans of spicy, schminky, thrilling dark romances. As always please check triggers and tropes before reading the book.

Losers completely pulled me in from the very first page. Harley LaRoux delivers an intensely addictive dark romance filled with emotional depth, explosive chemistry, and unforgettable characters. What surprised me most was how much heart this story had beneath its boundary-pushing spice. The exploration of trauma, healing, and found family added so much depth to the relationships, making this far more than just an erotic romance. Bold, emotional, and beautifully written, this book was an unforgettable experience.

One of my most anticipated releases this year was Losers Part One (& Two) by Harley Laroux. After reading The Dare earlier this year, I needed more of Jess, Manson, Lucas, Jason, and Vincent. All five of these characters became instant favorites of mine, and I needed more of them together. I was so happy when Harley announced she was giving them a full-length novel (two actually in parts) that I was there to click to buy as soon as she posted the preorder buttons. If you have not read The Dare, which introduces all the characters, I highly recommend reading it before you dive into Losers Part One. You’ll miss out on Jessica running into Manson, Lucas, Jason, and Vincent at a Halloween Party. (You don’t want to miss out on reading it. I’ve read it several times. It’s my go-to book whenever I feel like I’m going into a reading slump.) Storyline/My Thoughts: Jessica is back in her hometown after she finishes college. She never thought she would return, but unfortunately, she didn’t land a job that would take her away from her home. She never thought she would run into the four men that changed her life one night a few years ago at a Halloween party. She thought one night would be all she needed until she was tempted by what they could offer her again years later. She shouldn’t want what they gave her at the Halloween party, but she’s intrigued by Manson, Lucas, Jason, and Vincent. Jessica ends up trusting the wrong people, and now she owes a debt to the boys; that debt…

When reading RH everyone says this duet is the end all be all and a must read. It took me awhile to get into it because frankly the FMC was a horrible bully and so obnoxious. As you continue reading you realize there is more to her than what she projects. There is a lot of bouncing of timelines in the chapters. It will go back to their high school years to help you better understand the relate between all the individual characters. So the positives for me is connecting the dots, well plotted out story, character development, multiple POVs, like able MMCs. Now read the trigger warnings before going in. This isn’t a romcom, this isn’t romance, sunshine and butterflies. This is pretty raw and about damaged people finding each other and realizing they are still worthy of love, friendship and still being here on this Earth.