DNF at 38%. From the beginning I had a hard time understanding why the heroine kept everything to herself, not sharing what her stepfather was doing to her the second she got a chance. Sure when she was younger I understood her fear, but as soon as she got serious with Hunter she should have let it be known. To let him go down for arson was crazy, threats or not, especially considering his occupation.

Then she comes back, gets captured by Hunter, knows her son is in danger and doesn't say a word about anything. TSTL. Don't even get me started on the sex scenes. Geez.

As for Hunter, I get he was angry but he crossed more than a few lines when he caught up with her. He was passed asshole territory and went straight to abusive douchenozzle.

I tried to finish it, but at the hospital scene when he flops back and forth on her so many times, I was over it. Especially when the parentage of Josh came into question. Ugh. I was just done at that point.

When I read the synapsis of this story, I knew I was going to have to read it. It drew me in from the beginning and it was intense and heart breaking all at the same time.
Lucinda was trying to say goodbye to Hunter but it was hard to do when he was in prison, a place she had a hand in putting him. He was so angry that he fell into her trap and being used by her and her step-father. And she couldn't tell him she was running and probably wouldn't see him even again.
Three years later, Hunter is out of prison and trying to make his life better. When he hears that Lulu is back in town trying to see her mother before she dies. He has to get to her to find out why she sent him to prison with her lies. When he gets her. he only wants the truth and her step-father. Then he will let her go. That is until he learns the truth and the secret she has been hiding for three years. Now all he wants to do is protect her and help her forget the past.
Lulu can't resist Hunter, it has always been that way. But she knows she can't stay with him. Her step-father is still looking for her. She has to see her mother and leave as soon as she can.
Can Lulu leave town before she loser her heart to Hunter? Can Hunter get passed his anger and keep Lulu safe and protected?
This story will break your heart from what happened to Hunter and Lulu and what they have to go through. But in the end it will be worth it because this story is worth every tear and heartbreak you will feel and the HEA in the end.
This is a first for me from this author and I can't wait for more from her, especially from this series.
**Copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest review**

Wow, I absolutely loved this book! It had a little darker taste to it, which I really liked, as well as one of the best alpha heroes I’ve read in a while. The beginning is pretty iffy because Hunter is angry over the fact that Lulu framed him for arson and he had to spend three years in prison. However, I never once felt like he crossed a line. This author did an amazing job of coloring this story with a tint of blackness without going overboard. That made the second part that much sweeter. Once Hunter’s eyes are open he is all over claiming what is his. It was quite delicious!

This was fast paced with some incredible secondary characters that I absolutely cannot wait to read more of. Josh, her two year old, was written perfectly. (I know some readers have trouble with how children are portrayed.) Lulu did make a couple of questionable, okay TSTL, moments but I understood her thought process and accepted her decisions. There is definitely some triggers in this so be forewarned going in if you are sensitive to such things.

Altogether, this is definitely a book I would recommend to anyone who likes things a little darker as well as a hero that is protective and possessive. You will not go wrong choosing this one.

ARC provided for an honest review

Dual POV
Some OW drama but the H takes care of it – he doesn’t even see another woman after reuniting with his h.
Safety – both H/h have been with someone else at least once during their separation
Triggers - [Rape and abuse (hide spoiler)]

I have been a fan of Sherilee Gray for a longggg time! Her novels are so damn sexy and the perfect combination of an amazing storyline, a HOT alpha male and a sassy heroine that brings him to his knees. I FLOVED Shattered King so hard!! I seriously CAN'T WAIT for the next book.

When Hunter King was sent away to prison for three years for a crime he did not commit he wanted revenge. When the confession and reason for his imprisonment was at the hands of his girlfriend, Lucinda "Lulu" Pierce and her evil and corrupt stepfather, it was the final nail in the coffin. He was out for revenge and needed answers! But what happens when he figures out the truth and realizes the story is more dangerous and complicated than he ever thought. Will Lulu and Hunter be able to come together and find the real villain?

I absolutely loved this story! It was dark at times and so so sexy. I loved it!! Hunter was so intense, protective, possessive but so heartfelt about his feelings for Lulu. I could not get enough of this amazing couple. I can't wait for Ruby and Neco. Good Lord I NEED it now! Bravo! 4.5 stars!! ~Ratula

I would like to thank NetGalley and SMP Swerve for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review.

This is the second book I have read from this author and one of the things that sticks out most for me is her ability to write and convey the intensity of the relationship between the main characters. It's not something you see too often and an aspect I love to read in my books.

Another aspect I have was impressed with is her ability to not have me wanting to rush past the first part of the book when Hunter thought Lulu betrayed him. I'm all about getting to the part where the couple work together not against each other. When the author had me just as enthralled with this part, I consider that a win. It actually showed me just how much these two cared for each other and made the truth come out even sweeter.

The story was fast paced, had great side characters that will eventually get their own standalone books and great chemistry. The story is on the darker side with reference to rape and violence. ARC provided by NetGalley

3.75 stars

I either end up loving or hating sexy contemporary second-chance romance stories starring alpha males, where one of the main characters starts off hating the other. This types of plots with some suspense thrown into it has been done pretty often. So finding a book with these characteristics and it holding my attention isn't that easy. I was glad that Shattered King was able to do that. The characters weren't cliche and I found Lulu to be refreshing. The choices she made were very difficult, but I understood why she made them. Hunter's anger and need for vengeance was understandable, because of his love for Lulu. Thinking the love of your life has betrayed you must break your heart and turn you into someone who doesn't trust easily.

The author took her time for them to work through everything. In a lot of books things are rushed and it makes it harder for readers to connect with the characters. However Sherilee did a great job in showcasing the love they still had for each other. Even when Hunter wanted to hate Lulu, there were moments that his love was evident. I loved Hunter's interaction with Lulu's son Josh. Hunter is very responsible, protective and possessive. The sex scenes between Lulu and Hunter were HOT! I could've done with one or two less of them, because I skipped a few of them to get back to the story. I also really loved that the author showed them in a setting when the danger was over. Lulu has to make a difficult decision and I enjoyed how the author handled that. Those little things set this book apart from the others in this genre. I am looking forward to the next book in the series, and I really hope that all the side characters will get their own book.

This is the first book in a new series, and at times it was a fast paced full of emotion, passion and tension. At other times in the story it was missing something. Hunter King is getting out of prison for a crime he did not commit and wants to get back at the two people he feels put him away. One the woman he was and still is in love with Lulu. It is her step father that is the reason that he went away and the reason that she did not testify saying he did not do the crime. When he finally finds her and realizes after a few days that she is really running from her step- father. His brother, and the other guys that he works with decide that she is not part of the problem. Finding out more as he goes along he discovers that she has a child and he looks a lot like Hunter. Now they must not only figure out their relationship but also find her step father who is still wanting them both dead. An interesting story, with some good characters. I did like Ruby their sectary. Overall not a bad book.

Sherilee is one of my favorite authors and I totally enjoyed this book. It was gritty, fast paced, full of secrets, great chemistry, love, passion and so much more. I loved both main characters and their connection was so real. Read this book you won't regret it!

Talk about angst…it is there in spades. I have not read this author before and really had no idea what to expect. I was very pleasantly surprised. I love angst, second chances, alpha males, intrigue, suspense and you have it all in this book. High emotions were involved and I could not put it down. I thought the characters were well written and believable. Not everything works out perfectly right away. I am definitely looking forward to stories about the other guys. Fantastic read.

Shattered King is a fast-paced romantic thriller and I just breathe in every word. The story is well written and I love the dynamics and passion of both Hunter and Lulu’s characters. I would definitely recommend this book!

When I first started reading this one I wasn't sure I was going to like it. Hunter was so angry and his treatment of Lulu made me cringe. Amazingly though these two had an actual conversation and listened to each other. What came out of that was a clearer understanding of exactly what happened in the past and explained why Lulu did what she did which in turn calmed Hunter's anger opening up possibilities for the future. I loved the way the author handled this! I really enjoyed these characters as well as the secondary characters in the story. I'm am looking forward to Neco and Ruby's story!!

Don't miss this one! I highly recommend it.

I’m a sucker for a dark story line, and Sherilee Gray’s Shattered King had all the elements that make it a catnip story: second chance love, incarcerated hero, revenge, passion. The blurb is simply too delicious to pass up. This is the first book in Gray’s Lawless Kings series, and it shot from a cannon straight into the stratosphere. Ms. Gray is an author to watch.

Hunter King dreams of retribution, even if it comes at the cost of kidnapping the woman he used to love. The woman responsible for putting him behind bars. He just wants to find out the truth and then it’s over. Lulu never expected her first meeting with Hunter King to turn sideways…or to end up with her as Hunter's prisoner. Then there's how much she still wants him despite his blazing animosity for her. But they both have secrets and demons to fight.

First off, this story is intense. The seething nature of Hunter has been building for three years, and as you can imagine, it led to some serious hate (rough) f&c$ing that was out of this world! Oh, my god. I don’t think I breathed through the first quarter of this book. Hunter’s everything I like in an alpha. A little rough, a lot possessive, with a sexual charisma that leaves Lulu panting. Their past sits heavily in the background. It’s this silent mass that builds and builds until it explodes.

I enjoyed Lulu as well. Girl has a lot of past to work through, and when Hunter comes at her so intimately, so unerringly? She’s caught up (quite literally) in a web that’s strong as all get out. But she’s remarkably resilient, and I just really enjoyed seeing her combat and challenge Hunter so well. Sparks, people. They are blazing hot together, and if you like dirty sex—lots of it and often—then you’d definitely enjoy this book!

That said, there were some parts that were just downright frustrating. Hunter helps run a security/investigative/recover agency company (among other things) with four other guys. I expected these guys to know what was up and act accordingly. A few times I had to put down the book and say, Really? You don’t know better? Lulu also seems to go back and forth a lot, but all things considered, I could understand it.

I simply can’t wait to read the other books in this series. Hunter’s other brothers—both biological and not—have an alpha quality and a vibe of mystery that has me wanting more. So, if you want strong characters with a protective/possessive hero who can get down and dirty, then you’re definitely going to find it here.

4 stars!

Hunter King has spent the last three years stewing over being sent to prison for a crime he didn't commit and the person who was responsible for putting him there is the same person who claimed to love him. But apparently she lied about that, just like his alibi, so now the only thing left to do is find out why, and then rid her from his life permanently. He devises a plan to kidnap her, and lure the information from her, but one look at her, and the anger he carries towards her starts to subside. He soon learns things didn't happen quite the way he thought, and that she has been on the run since he was put in prison to keep herself and her secrets safe. But now that he has brought her out of hiding, it's caught the eye of the man that has been hunting for her and he wants her back...now Hunter must put aside his anger to keep her safe!

Lulu has been walking around the last three years riddled with guilt, she had to do something she isn't so proud of, but it was the only way to keep Hunter safe from her step-father. Soon after seeing him go to prison she fled town and went into hiding to keep herself and her unborn child safe from her step-father and his goons. But when she hears that her mother's health is failing she knows she'll never be able to forgive herself if she doesn't sneak home to see her before she passes, so she devises the perfect plan to sneak into town undetected. But after a quick visit at the hospital someone is waiting for her and wants answers... answers that she is not prepared to give!

This gritty, dark, and provocative read pulled me in from the first sentence and had me instantly obsessed... I could not put it down!! Ms. Gray really outdid herself with this one, the story line had moments that were dark and intense, moments that were touching and sweet, and moments that were downright naughty... it was a very well rounded read!! After meeting all these new characters I am left really excited about getting back to them and sinking my teeth into their stories, can't wait to see what is in store for all of them next! If you like your reads rich with suspense, super naughty and a little on the dark side then I highly suggest your consider diving into this one, you will not be disappointed!!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this title.

ARC given by publisher/netgalley in exchange for honest review.

This was one of those rare books that I actually read in less than twenty four hours since I first read the first page. It gripped me from the very beginning. And every time I was forced to put it down, I found myself wanting to pick it right back up.

The characters, right off the bat, have that chemistry that is undeniable. Their hate towards each other at first is what makes you want to keep turning the pages as fast as you can. Their backstory is rough and hard, but how they overcome it makes all the hurt you watch them go through completely worth it. Even when it hit on a possible trigger. (There is mention of rape and past abuse, and a close call).

The second I reached the last page, I instantly wished I had the next book. This was an excellent start to the series, and most definitely recommend it to other readers. If you like non stop action, angst and drama, then you'll want to give this one a chance.

Hunter spent 3 years in prison for something he didn't do and he plans on getting even with the person who sent him there. Lulu was raised by a horrible stepfather and had no choice but to do what she did. Now she can only hope that Hunter will forgive her and they can have a second chance at love. Great sexy read!

3.5 stars. I was looking for something mindless and to take my mind off life around me. This was just the ticket. It was steamy, dirty, a little on the repetitive side, I mean how many ways can you say the same thing...A LOT apparently.

So, if you've read my reviews before, you know I have a love/hate relationship with second chance romances, and how they make me feel. This one was a doozy! What if the man you still loved hated your guts for what was done to him? It was a little darker and more angsty than I usually prefer, but I really liked it.

Hunter King just got out of prison after more than 3 years for a crime he didn't commit. He knows who set him up. He's always known that. Now, he needs to know why. Why the woman he loved beyond life, who he was sure loved him, could have turned on him so completely. He runs a security/PI business with his brother and some close friends, that they opened before he went to jail. He is back at work, but he's plotting his revenge. He had a very rough life growing up, and he tried to make the best life he could for himself, and for Lulu, who he thought would be with him forever. Now it's time to get the truth.

Lulu is a hot mess. She's been on the run for 3 years. Ever since she lied to the police about Hunter's alibi, and basically helped to pin arson on him. He doesn't know that she only did it to save his life. Her stepfather is a monster, and she knew he was telling the truth when he threatened to kill Hunter if she didn't go along with the plan. She loves Hunter still, more than ever, but she knows there is no way to be with him now. Not with what he thinks she did. She lied, and betrayed him, and there's no taking that back. Even if he knew the truth. And, to keep her precious son safe, she can never tell him the truth. She doesn't plan to ever see him again. But, her mom is dying, and she must see her before she's gone. She has no idea what's waiting for her when she pulls back into town.

Hunter and Lulu's chemistry was scorching. The sex was steamy, and happened quite often. Even when Hunter thought the worst of her and hated her, he still wanted her, which was making him crazy. They really were it for each other, and I loved that. However, the first couple times they're together again, once he kidnaps her, it was a little rough to read. He was basically hateful to her, and they have, what was from his POV, hate sex. But, she still loves him, which is why she can't turn him away. It was painful to watch. Additionally, there are a couple of brutal attempted rape scenes on the heroine (by the bad guy), and that was very hard to get through. I'm not a person who has any reading triggers, but I'm sure that, for some people, this will be impossible to read. I, myself, was glad I had read a previous review that warned of this happening ahead of time.

The second chance aspect here was a very unique one, and I loved that. It was unlike any other story I've read, in that way. I really enjoyed them getting to know each other again, once the truth comes out about the past. Also, seeing Hunter with little Josh was heartwarming, for sure. I loved their dynamic, and how they were it for each other from the start in the past, and how quickly that becomes true again. I really liked their communication, once they really started trusting each other again.

There were a few things I wasn't a huge fan of in this story. Many of them centered around Lulu, and some of her poor decisions. She often seemed to act without thinking, and it really got on my nerves. I know she was quite traumatized from her past, and some of the things she does make more sense looking at them through that lens, but still. I had a hard time understanding her sometimes. Hunter as well, let his past color some of his decisions, when he should have known something else was going on. It was frustrating for me.

There was so much darkness in this book, but love and family (blood, and who you choose) brought light to the shadows. I really loved the main character's arcs here, and how they both grew as characters, separately, and as a couple. The side characters were very interesting too, and I'm excited to see more stories in this world, with the guys (and girl) Hunter works with. I definitely recommend this story for anyone who likes their romantic suspense a little on the darker side.

Hunter has just been released from 3 years in prison for a crime he was framed for by the woman he loved. He is determined to get vengeance by doing whatever he can to hurt Lulu and her stepfather because he knows they both took him down. Problem is that once he sees Lulu again, all those feelings come rushing back and, try though he might, he cannot continue to hate her because there's something else going on here that he has to figure out. Lulu will never forgive herself for allowing her stepfather to blackmail her into lying about Hunter so he ended up losing all that time in jail. Time they could have spent together raising the son he never knew about. This is a very powerful story about how things aren't always as they seem, forgiving the people you love is imperative and, realizing that the truth will always set you free is a vitally important life lesson.

Shattered King is exactly what readers have come to expect from Sherilee Gray; action-packed, intense, loaded with suspense and passionately real.

A plot that starts out with vengeance against a previous lover quickly changes to a second chance at the opportunity lost for a HEA. Lulu and Hunter are dynamic, and their relationship is definitely not sunshine and roses. But once misunderstandings and the reasons for what Hunter believed to be betrayal are revealed, the passion and depth of their love is undeniable.

Another great start to what’s sure to be an exceptional series!