Thanks to NetGalley, Entangled Publishing, and the author for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review!

Honestly, this book was so cringe on several levels. The MMC just prances around New York in a cheap Phantom of the Opera costume and somehow is still so incredibly charming and able to pick up women to take to a BDSM sex club. He’s also adamant that he never remove his goofy mask or reveal even his first name to Frankie, the FMC. Frankie was fine as a character until she starts catching feelings for Phantom and before even reaching the climax they had third act-like breakups that Frankie framed as world ending but were solved within pages. Also, I do not enjoy insta-love as a trope and Bloom definitely featured it. If you want to read a book that has smut and don’t really care if the plot has a point or that the characters and their relationships are cringe, this is a perfect pick. I wish there was more substance to Bloom, unfortunately this book just wasn’t for me.

Awesome as always! I will continue to read everything this author ever writes! Always my next favorite!

3.5 Stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bloom is part of a series about an underground club and its steamy activities. I did recognize a few of the characters' names from other books but this can easily be read as a standalone story.

This is a story of two lonely people randomly meeting and discovering themselves and each other together. It’s a story of trust. It’s a story of exploration and discovery. One of the things that this author does very well is write the hot and steamy scenes that envelop you in the story. With a BDSM intrigue theme running through this book, it is easy to get sucked into Bloom

I have to admit, this is also one of the first stories where I had a hard time with the connection between the main characters. I missed some of the sizzle and spark that usually burst from the pages. Frankie did some things that I disliked and seemed somewhat shallow.

Overall, the story is great and super engaging, but I did not get that hard-core connection between the main characters that are usually there. I needed more.

Once again, another inferno read from Helen Hardt that sweeps you into a world of pleasure, pain, love, acceptance, and forgiveness.

What will happen when a masked man reveals a world that leaves Frankie Thomas finally feeling satisfied and complete?

If you love literature, secrets, love, loss, pain, trust, and a whole lot of yum, go read this story, While it is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I can't wait to read the next installment!

I DNF'd this book. I wasn't a big fan of the first in the series, but I thought I'd give it another go around. I'm not sure I even made it 50 pages. It's difficult to care about the characters when they're unlikable. Also, the body shaming is offensive. Mandy can eat whatever she wants, but Frankie can't? This series is so problematic with toxic masculinity, poor understanding of NYC, and unrealistic scenarios.

If you're in the mood for a book that effortlessly combines spice, a strong, resilient female protagonist, and a captivating love interest, then "Bloom" by Helen Hardt is an absolute must-read. With its engaging plot and enthralling characters, this novel keeps you hooked from start to finish.

The story revolves around Frankie, the sister of Mandy, the main character from the first installment of this series, “Blush.” Although Frankie was initially supposed to marry a man named Penn, who remains on the periphery of the narrative, the story begins when Mandy and Jackson announce their engagement during a family dinner on Frankie's would-be wedding night. Despite her lack of feelings for Penn, Frankie finds herself in need of an escape from her family and the happy couple. Enter a chance encounter at a bar with a mysterious man donning a mask and cape, and Frankie's life takes an unexpected turn, forever altering her path.


The Black Rose Underground club, a prominent setting in the book and series, serves as a backdrop for exploration and self-discovery. It delves into the world of BDSM, providing a rich and intricate context for Frankie's personal and sensual awakening. Helen Hardt skillfully weaves in BDSM references and acts throughout the story, delivering a passionate and intimate tale that adds an extra layer of spice to the narrative.

One of the standout aspects of "Bloom" is the author's ability to create multifaceted characters. As a journalist at a women's magazine, Frankie brings a refreshing and relatable perspective to the story, adding depth to her character and enhancing the overall narrative. Frankie's strength and determination make her a compelling lead, while her love interest adds an element of mystery and allure that keeps readers captivated. The complexities of their relationship provide a rich emotional landscape, making their connection all the more enticing and unforgettable.

In conclusion, "Bloom" by Helen Hardt is a highly recommended book that flawlessly combines passion, intrigue, and a strong female lead. "Bloom" can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, but it seamlessly intertwines with the series. With its enthralling storyline, complex characters, and tantalizing exploration of BDSM, this novel will leave you eagerly turning the pages. Whether you're new to the series or a dedicated fan, "Bloom" is sure to satisfy your cravings for an unforgettable reading experience.

I received a copy of this title from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Sexy, fun and chock full of genuine emotion, Bloom is so much more than an erotic romance. It’s a journey into another world and a glimpse into fantasy fulfillment.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

“If she has me quoting Fitzgerald and then brings out the Gatsby in me, I definitely need to get to know her
better.”

Unexpectedly sweet. I think this is the best way I could ever describe this book. After reading Blush, I had certain expectation for the second book in the Black Rose series (they are standalones so you can read them separately but to avoid spoilers for book one, I would suggest you to read them in order). It met those expectations and more !!!! Frankie has just left her long term almost husband boyfriend because she found out he has been cheating on her for years. Now that her sister is close to marrying the love of her life, it’s time to find herself somewhere else. Little does she know that while sitting in a bar she is gonna meet a very handsome but mysterious and brooding man with a mask, who goes around calling himself the Phantom and he will be ready to give her exactly what she needs!!!
In a romantic suspense with darkness and sweetness and control and love, this story will take you away from reality and teach you what it means to submit to someone else willingly and what are the different shades of sexual life. It was a book that alongside the main dark romance plot, we’ll let you through Frankie’s life as a journalist, writing a piece about bdsm and what it means for both parts. It was also an educational book of sorts. But most importantly is a book that teaches you to respect boundaries when they are made so … oh and the spicy scenes were definitely there and more than thrilling!!!! Definitely check this one out!!!!

“Tonight, I'm your Phantom, and you are my beautiful angel of music."

This book is amazing when it comes to consent and helps portray good research and feedback on the BDSM lifestyle. Just from reading her book I feel like I got more information about something that I didn’t know much about. This book isn’t just informative but the author makes you go down a rabbit hole and makes you want to know more.

After reading the first book I immediately had to read this book. I found the characters to be easily loveable and the plot was amazing. I’ve already recommended this series along with some of her other books. It’s also safe to say that from now on I will also be picking up more of her books in the future.

Thank you netgalley and Helen Hardt for this ARC! I’m giving it 3 stars.

Book 2 of the black rose serie, i think you need to read book 1 Before this one, what i not did btw!

Following her sisters engagement, Francesca meets this mystery man, Phantom and their connection is instant but he does not want a romantic relationship and she just found out her fiancé cheated on her. I felt there wasn’t much of a storyline or at times it felt repetitive and being an erotica genre, it was just okay. I needed more from this book but overall it was a good quick read!

I like the cover of this book!

Bloom by Helen Hardt is such a wonderful read. The book got a little heart fluttering sweet romance, hot steamy BDSM love making scenes, a little bit of angst and suspense, tears from heart broken, a great supporting characters and a beautiful epilogue.

Frankie are able to forget her cheating ex after been introduced to Phantom. At a BDSM club, Phantom explored her uncharted desire as long as his identity are hidden.

This book got everything I'll ever wanted, the sweetness in romance, the hot steamy scenes and the heart wrenching sad moment which make me wet my pillow from all the tears. I'll definitely be reading more from Helen Hardt and I'm looking forward to read the next story.

this book was it for me. very drawn to it and wanted to read more of it. Didn't get the first book in the series, but now i will read more.

Bloom by H. Hardt is book two in the Black Rose Series. Every book can easily be read as stand-alone. For best reading experience I recommend to read the books in order.
The previous book is Blush, Mandy and Jackson's story.
But back to Bloom.
Frankie is Mandy's sister. And she always choses the wrong like, aka no luck with relationships. That's about to change when she runs into Phantom.
He's a rather mystery. A man with strict rules, no past, lets call it nomen est omen.
An intriguing read, complex, with twists and turns that had me guessing til the last page, 4,5 stars.

This second book in the Black Rose series was another hit!! Each book gets better then the last. Frankie and her mystery man Phantom just burn up the pages and the sheets. Phantom wants to keep his identity on the low and for the right reasons but how can he really get to know Frankie who is recovering from a broken engagement if she doesn't know who he really is?!! They have an interesting meet cute and the story unravels from there. I cold not put this book down I devoured it in one day! I won't lie initially I did not like Frankie and how she treated her sister Mandy but she grew on me. I also wanted more background on Phantom's life and upbringing. Overall the book was amazing and once again Helen Hardt knocked it out the park.

**Thank you NetGalley, Entangled Publishing and Helen Hardt for an ARC in exchange for an honest review**

3⭐️. it was a cute and spicy book about a bdsm club. i couldn’t immerse myself in the book but this is just not the type of books i read. it had really cute moments though. thank you netgalley for this book

Bloom by Helen Hardt is book 2 of the Black Rose series. First, I will read anything this author writes. She is fantastic! This book is about Frankie, little sister to Mandy who we met in the first book, and Phantom aka Hunter. Frankie is going through it and winds up at the Black Rose bar and meets the Phantom. Her curiosity gets the best of her and she falls into the world of BDSM. The Phantom who wishes to remain private catches feelings for Frankie. I really like the dynamic with these 2 characters and the steam and chemistry is definitely there. However, I felt the story was rushed. I wanted to know more but I feel it just all of a sudden ended. I do look forward to see where this series will go and I have enjoyed it so far.

This book is HOT. Franke was supposed to get married to Penn on the day her sister announced she was engaged. Everyone had forgotten Penn had broken up with her. She's upset and goes to a bar for a drink. A stranger sits beside her in a mask and calls himself Phantom. She agrees to see him again and he refuses to take the mask off It takes awhile for him to tell her why. She starts to realize why when he takes her blindfolded to a club where they practice BDSM. She is shocked but not repulsed. She is repulsed when she sees her ex-fiance there though. Their relationship is a little rocky until she sees him without the mask and he starts to tell her his reasons. They start to care for each other when a scandal breaks out regarding him and she tries to help but makes it worse. He breaks it off with her until he finally gets his head on straight and realize he does not be without her. A good story

I got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review

Thank you netgalley and Helen Hardt for this ARC! I’m giving it 3.5 stars. Following her sisters engagement, Francesca meets this mystery man, Phantom and their connection is instant but he does not want a romantic relationship and she just found out her fiancé cheated on her. I felt there wasn’t much of a storyline or at times it felt repetitive and being an erotica genre, it was just okay. I needed more from this book but overall it was a good quick read!

I love this book! I wish I could have a Phantom of my own! The way they get to know each other and the increased trust that develops so he's confident enough to share his life story with her is just a beautiful thing to read! The spice was on point and I could not really put this book down! I can't wait for Blossom!

Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

"Bloom" is a book that left me feeling dissatisfied and underwhelmed. Despite its promise as an erotic genre novel, it falls short in several aspects, leading to a lackluster reading experience.

One of the primary reasons for my disappointment was the protagonist, Frankie. Throughout the story, I found her to be a highly unlikable character. Her constant selfishness and often irritating behavior made it difficult to connect with her on any level. Frankie's actions left me frustrated and questioning her choices, which hindered my overall enjoyment of the book.

Additionally, considering the book's supposed genre, the sex scenes were surprisingly dull and uninspiring. Instead of eliciting any sense of passion or excitement, they felt flat and, at times, even tedious. The lack of depth and creativity in these scenes made it challenging to become fully engaged in the supposed eroticism of the story.

However, one redeeming quality of "Bloom" is its quick and light read. After slogging through lengthy sagas with intricate plots, this book provides a much-needed break. It offers a swift pace and easy-to-follow storyline, allowing readers to unwind and relax without the burden of complex narratives.

In conclusion, "Bloom" failed to meet my expectations on various fronts. Nevertheless, if you're seeking a swift and undemanding read to take a breather from dense and convoluted sagas, this book may serve that purpose.