| Title | : | Strength Courage (The Night Horde SoCal, #1) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | 328 |
| Publication | : | First published January 31, 2015 |
The Night Horde SoCal is the new charter of the Night Horde MC, one that rose up from the ashes of a violent war with a drug cartel. The Horde’s outlaw days ended with that war.
Muse, like many of his SoCal brothers, was a member of an MC that was destroyed in that fight. A former Nomad enforcer, he’s struggled to be settled in a straight life. But Southern California is his home, his family is now Horde, and he has responsibilities. So he keeps his head down and does his best to take care of his family and responsibilities.
Sidonie has recently moved to Madrone, the town where the Night Horde SoCal has set up its base, to begin her job as a social worker for San Bernardino County. It’s work she feels a sense of mission to do.
Muse and Sid meet under stressful circumstances, on opposite sides of a dilemma. When Muse tries to bring her to his side, a fire catches between them.
As their feelings for each other deepen, the work of the SoCal charter becomes dangerous again. But the club isn’t the only potential danger for Sid. Her own work carries risk, too.
Muse needs to keep her safe. Sid needs to stand on her own. They won’t have a future together until they find the place where those needs merge and make them stronger.
Strength & Courage is the first book in the Night Horde SoCal series. Though this series, and thus its backstory, spins off from the Signal Bend Series, and though key characters from that series appear here, this focus is on the SoCal charter. If you haven’t been to Signal Bend yet, you won’t be lost in Madrone.
Note: explicit sex & violence.
Strength Courage (The Night Horde SoCal, #1) Reviews
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3.5 stars. Review posted February 5, 2015
His response had been so simple. Unvarnished and exactly right. What she needed. She believed him. But all she could do in response was cry.
Cliff sat up and whined, and Muse changed seats, scooting right up next to her so he could pull her into his arms. She turned into his chest and cried, right there in the restaurant, surrounded by fellow diners.
Yeah…that sexy swagger…
Habits of a lifetime didn't die hard. They didn't die at all.
My new job and real life in general are kicking my ass. Therefore my review will be short and, hopefully, to the point.
I've read Susan Fanetti's Pagano Family series--which was more miss than hit--and it's safe to say that she should stick to her guns. Meaning, I really prefer her biker stories. Even though I've had some minor issues, Strength & Courage is a promising beginning to her new Night Horde series and I'm looking forward to reading Demon's story Shadow & Soul.
"What the fuck is your problem?! Don't ever go for a man that way unless you mean fucking business and know you can get it done! It's a good way to get yourself killed."
"You didn't kiss me. You claimed me. Might as well have stamped 'MINE' on my ass."
Why he found that funny just then, he had no idea, but he did, and he grinned. "That comes later, hon. We barely know each other."
Surprisingly, I really liked the heroine who, despite her justified fears, came off as pretty feisty and courageous. And, to my delight, she gave Muse some serious sass. On the other hand, we have Muse whose character settled on a rather "sweet" side and somehow negated the expected badass biker personality. Despite my nagging, I liked them as a couple and, of course, their dialogue. The sex was all right. However, I would appreciate it tremendously if authors could be way more original when it comes to bedroom talk. I wouldn't call "Oh, fuck, fuck. I'm gonna come. Oh, oh, fuck me. Oh fuck me!" stellar dirty talk. If anything, it's pretty much eye-roll inducing and a bore. Not being a particular lover of endearments, the constant use of hon kind of irked me. But I get it, Muse was really sweet on Sid.
"I can handle myself."
"In a different skirt, I believe you. In this, pulling that shit, all you'd do is start a brawl."
"No. I don't want you to fix this for me. I don't need that. If you're not just a fuck, then I need your respect. That's what I need."
(…)
"You have my respect. And you're not just a fuck to me, so I hope it's the same for you. (…)"
Compared to her Signal Bend series, this first book in the Night Horde series had a "tamer" and "lighter" feel to it which left me yearning for more grit--something edgier, maybe? Frankly, I don't know how to put my finger on it. I mean grit doesn't necessarily equal violence because there was, especially towards the end of the story. Still, something was missing. That Sid in Fanetti's Signal Bend series. That might be another reason why the final 20% didn't cut it for me and left me kind of disappointed. In addition, I was somehow underwhelmed by the ending. Those are the reasons why I couldn't upgrade to four stars.
Overall though it's a well-written and engaging story, sprinkled with some great moments, especially a very emotional and beautiful scene at 51%. The author captured that pain and the beauty of Muse's genuine and unvarnished reaction in a way that didn't need grand words. Show don't tell…that moment spoke volumes without uttering too many words. You should actually read this book just for that single crucial moment.
And this…
…made me heart bleed. *wipes eyes*
Recommended read. -
Live➜
http://amzn.to/1BG6HJI
Strength & Courage is a new kind of Night Horde. They’re on the up-and-up in their little community of Southern California. They own and run a custom bike shop and also do some security work. This SoCal branch is much larger than the main branch in Missouri.
Muse is the quiet brother amongst his fellow club members. He's a good man who has seen and done some bad things.
Sidonie is fresh on the job and wanting to make a difference for those who have no voice.
Paths are crossed when one of the Horde members has some issues that lands his child in the Department of Children and Family Services. Sidonie is the caseworker who is forced to look beyond the exterior to see the interior of these men who grace her workplace.
Through some crazy nighttime circumstances Muse ends up at Sid’s house where after the initial shock of the crisis has been averted these two hit it off. While things progress between the two of them Sid starts to question her involvement with this club. Her upbringing and lifestyle is the extreme opposite of everything the club has to offer.
One of the many things Ms. Fanetti does well with her female characters is she makes them strong. Her women are never damsels in distress but instead they portray strength and courage. The Fanetti Women are flawed women who are stable in their own personal selves. They are tough and at the same time supportive. I love that when I read her books I know I won’t be rolling my eyes at the leading ladies in the story.
Ms. Fanetti is like a best kept secret… she writes these fantastic books and publishes them about every six weeks without a bunch of fanfare. You won’t see any blog tours or major announcements about the books. But like a true subculture all of us, Ms. Fanetti fans, JUST KNOW when this stuff will be released. If you haven’t taken time to read any of her work please do. She has three series, as of right now: 2 mc’s and 1 Italian-American family. Start with any of her series and discover what the rest of already know- Ms. Fanetti’s writing is brilliant. The way she creates a family feeling, be it in a mc or one who has ties to the mafia, you’ll find yourself drawn into their world. All that to say- READ THIS BOOK. :)
Meet the men of Night Horde of SoCal Motorcycle Club(& their women):
Hoosier: President.
♥Bibi♥: Mama to the Horde family
~~~~~~~~~
Bart: (30ish years old) Vice President
♥Riley♥: movie star.
~~~~~~~~~
Connor: SAA. Hoosier's son.
~~~~~~~~~
Lakota: Secretary & Treasurer.
~~~~~~~~~
Sherlock: Intelligence Officer.
~~~~~~~~~
Muse: (43 years old) patch. Somewhat of a mentor to Demon
~~~~~~~~~
Demon: patch. Hotheaded. Loose cannon but loyal.
~~~~~~~~~
Diaz:patch.
♥Ingrid♥: model
~~~~~~~~~
Ronin: (50 years old) patch.
~~~~~~~~~
Trick:patch.
~~~~~~~~~
P.B.:patch.
~~~~~~~~~
J.R.:patch. Only black member of of the Horde.
SERIES:
Continuing story where secondary characters from the first book become the main focus in subsequent books.
Book 1 - Muse | Book 2 - Demon (expected release date March 15, 2015)
To find out if there will be more books in the series click
here.
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June 2020 - another read. Muse and Sid are an interesting couple and what happens with the SoCal charter kicks off a series of events that change their lives forever.
Re-read of the series - August 2017: With a fond appreciation of the SoCal charter and reading this book directly after finishing Signal Bend series I have new insight into the SoCal world that I had previously forgotten. Strength & Courage brings about major change to this MC charter while rocking the worlds of both main characters. My original review sums up exactly how I feel about this book. I'm excited to live in SoCal for a little while and undertake this series once again.
5+ "Love Me. Trust Me." Stars
Another beautiful, poignant Fanetti romance. I trust in this author's voice, her brilliant prose to deliver a story I'll always remember. She once again hasn't let me down.
Strength & Courage marks the start of a new Susan Fanetti journey. Delving back into the land of MC’s readers get a bird’s eye view into the life of SoCal Night Horde headed by Hoosier and Bart whom we met in Signal Bend although bear in mind it not necessary to read the Signal Bend series first (even though you should want to read it first). It’s a passage back into the darkest recesses of Fanetti’s writing style where you know danger lurks around every corner. Strength & Courage marks a return to the haunting, evocative, consuming romances only this author can pen.
Strength & Courage is something altogether unfamiliar that evolves into something entirely familiar; an analogy quite fitting to the Night Horde SoCal chapter itself. Here bonds are formed, friendships and loyalty tested, family understood, and a way of life re-evaluated for better or worse.
The first couple we meet in SoCal are Muse and Sidonie; two seemingly different people who meet in a time of duress for one of the Horde brothers. As always with a Fanetti H/h match the two meet, are mutually attracted, and without a clear understanding of why they fall into a beautifully dangerous web of honesty and vulnerability directly juxtaposed to the stereotypes of who they should actually be. It’s a real man and a real woman in a perfectly imperfect relationship exemplified in the most honest, romantic way. Muse and Sid get each other on a fundamental level without all the subterfuge of not admitting true feelings.
There’s questions and bumps along the way as with any romance but the strength within each of these characters and the belief in each other never waivers. Susan Fanetti always delivers an alpha man ready to go to battle for their love. What she also always NEVER FAILS at delivering is an incredibly strong female. A female with a solid, no-nonsense moral code, one who believes in right and wrong even when there are grey areas and one who stands up not only for herself but for what she believes and knows to be right. These are most admirable characters even when posed with undesirable situations. The courage it takes to be an equal partner in their relationship and to show the world they’re together and believe in each other is unmatched in this story.
Muse and Sid meld together in solidarity much like the SoCal charter itself. Strengthening ties and uniting their families as one as well as breaking the mold of what Sid's preconceived notions of family have always been. The need to protect each other and their loved ones; to be equal in the protection. The story conveys the basic building blocks of a solid romance expertly laid out for the reader in this story of an outlaw biker and his upstanding woman. It’s the open, easy way a Horde man, a Fanetti man, loves a woman completely with his all his soul.
There’s a lot of set up for the rest of Night Horde SoCal journey in this title and I cannot wait for the next wave of emotions Susan Fanetti brings to the table. New characters are introduced and plots thickened while some points come full circle from where they started in Missouri. It’s going to be one hell of an adventure.
Strength & Courage is romance at its finest. Muse & Sid characters with whom you’ll fall in love. It’s romance hidden in layers of darkness shrouded by shadows. It’s beautiful, consuming, and claiming in such a way that ONLY Susan Fanetti with her balanced, fluid, mature, and exquisite writing can produce.
Strength & Courage is PURE LOVE even in the ugliest of times. Strength & Courage is the dawning of a new day for the Night Horde SoCal and I for one am buckled in ready to enjoy the latest journey from this gifted author.
Favorite Quotes:
“There was fight in this girl. It seemed she was smart enough to have fear, and strong enough to stand up despite it.”
“That was weird. Wonderfully so. She’d never met somebody so comfortable with himself – really comfortable, not that faux ‘don’t-give-a-fuck’ attitude some guys had that was really extreme self-consciousness disguised.”
**Strength & Courage generously provided in exchange for an honest review.** -
5 Coming Home Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free
As I have mentioned, there is a certain comfort for me in reading Susan Fanetti books. Like other authors I gravitate to, with Fanetti, there is a fit...I can equate it to finding that clothing manufacturer or designer...who fits your body type, style and just feels right when you put it on. When reading these type of authors, I know when I sit down and start...a feeling of "it just fits" comes over me and I will settle in. This read was no different... I started in the evening and didn't finish until the early morning hours of the next day.
Now Ms. Fanetti writes excellent blurbs... she has set the scene and gave just enough back story for both Signal Bend veterans and rookies to know what they were starting; a new offshoot of the Horde...out of the ashes from the epic events from the past. This takes place in Southern California in an area which is close enough to Los Angeles but far enough away to allow the club its space from metropolitan eyes. It is in a community which is diverse in ethnicity as well as economics. There are middle class neighborhoods, all tended to...striving to show how hard the landowners care about what they have achieved...minutes away from the discarded, throwaways...Where tumbledown buildings and dirt roads lead to meth, crack and violence. All communities across these United States have some element of this...yet the description of this type in California is one I happen to know and the telling of it is absolute.
With all of Ms.Fanetti's writing she gives us layered stories within the story. In this, we have the relationship arc of Muse, a nomad turned settled Horde and Sid, a social worker wanting to make a difference in the world. These two first meet under very difficult circumstances and then literally collide again hours later. The imprint for both, like fledglings birds first learning about their families, has been made but not recognized. It is their third meeting when they actually connect. The way they communicate with each other is telling... both Muse and Sid do not believe on subterfuge...they are not game players so what they say to each other is staggeringly real....from the very beginning and throughout the book it stays that way.
By doing this, we are clear in all of the reasons behind every action. This is a gift because this love story is a way for Fanetti to explain why a strong, educated, seemingly self assured woman would be opened to a committed relationship with an outlaw biker. Through Sid, we are taken down the rabbit hole of want...caring and finally love for a man who is there for her in every way, yet lives a life, which at first glance, is opposed to what her work stands for... She is technically "Government, Rules, Regulations" and his is Anti all of that.
But things are not always how they seem with these characters... because where Sid should be fragile, she is mighty and fierce. Where Muse is massive, strong and takes no prisoners, with Sid he is different. He can be raw and sexual or gentle and caring. He shows his softer side and reveals more than he ever has; with Sid he is home.
Each of these characters tap into the core of each other... revealing their needs; sexually and emotionally. Each have to make changes to fit into each others lives... they need to understand the importance of what makes the other person tick...and it is a journey worth taking.
Surrounding this arc of Muse and Sid is the SoCal Horde's story. This is part of the draw of Fanetti's writing. She sucks you into more than just romance... she brings you into the world of these people and you become attached...she imprints on you... and you on them. The club politics matter and each of the members play a role. You care about the "old ladies" of the club and listen with Sid to their wisdom of loving.
The Club's success becomes important to you; the politics and dangerous decisions have you concerned for everyone's well being and if you are a veteran Signal Bend reader than seeing past friends be involved and make an appearance brings it all together for you. The pace may seem slower and uneventful...do not be lulled into assuming this is all there is...because this SoCal Horde chapter's roots are planted in a different soil...their roots are bloody.
So, much takes place during this read; we see the SoCal Horde at a crossroads. We learn of the hierarchy and who the players are and we get a peek of where they may be headed. We meet a man and a woman who both have the strength and courage to forge a relationship built on truth and communication between them... to be in the moment and shield nothing emotionally...and be each others equal in loving.
More is coming...more club worries; more romance and love...and isn't that how it should be... I only hope I will have the Strength and Courage to stay the course... because I feel it in my bones... what may have seemed subtle to some... will be coming at us full blast very soon.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
There are a few Authors I blindly one click... no reading of the blurb... friends' reviews or even research. Ms. Fanetti has become one of these delights through my discovery of her Signal Bend series.
I experienced emotions and introspection about issues and personal decisions...she presented so much in her writing...I wasn't an observer...I was a participant.
From what I know the focus of this book is one character from Signal Hill and takes him to his next stage in his life. That is all I know at this moment... and it is enough... for now... as I have strapped on my Big Girl Panties, have my liquid fortification and enough pillows in my chair so my ass won't suffer when I start this one sitting read.
I just have to clear the decks and then settle in....hopefully it won't take too long.
I have bought this book and whatever I say will be my honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
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Sidonie a social worker, who comes into contact with the Night Horde, when she becomes a case worker for Demon's 2 year old son. Demon and Muse are both members of the SoCal chapter. When a desperate Demon tries to plea his case to Sid, and things escalate, Muse steps in to calm everyone down. Muse and Sid's relationship heats up quickly and is low on drama. Sid is feisty and independent, so she and Muse but-heads a few times. But, Muse is understanding and level-headed, giving Sid what she needs.
“We all need to be rescued sometimes, hon. You rescued me. I just returned the favor.”
While Strength & Courage was light on the grittiness, it was emotional and and engaging. And as always the writing was superb, Susan is an excellent story-teller. I am really looking forward to continuing this series. -
OK, maybe I have definitely burned my bridges with this author... I read all the Signal Bend books and loved the first five. No, I did not like THAT book, you know the one. And the last one was only OK. I was sort of disillusioned with this author. But I have seen some good reviews for this one and was in the mood for a "Biker" book.
I didn't particularly care for either of the main characters. I didn't really like her parents.
Couldn't really warm to most of the club members. I can't even muster up some enthusiasm to find a hot guy to post on here.
Will I read the next one? Not sure ... Anyhow, there are plenty of Fanetti fans out there who will keep reading her books. -
4 "You're enough" Stars!
Strength & Courage, book one in The Night Horde SoCal series, features Muse, an ex Nomad biker. He's now staying local for the Horde MC due to family commitments. The Night Horde chapter had several cameo appearances within the Signal Bend series so when I saw the news Ms. Fanetti was releasing a series devoted to just these guys, I was beyond ecstatic. More Bart and Riley too!
Sidonie is a new grad social worker for the Department of Children and Family Services when she meets Muse. She's assigned to the case of a fellow biker's son and makes the difficult decision to put the child in foster care. Muse is immediately thrown in between the two of them as a mediator. He's trying to get his friend custody of Tucker but his attraction to Sid seems to be at the forefront of his mind.
Where to start...it's no secret that her Signal Bend series is bar-none, my favorite MC series. Ms. Fanetti has the ability to capture the lifestyle full of gritty outlaws but still include that sense of loyalty...of family amongst the members. This is carried through in this series with flying colors!
Another HUGE bonus that appears throughout every MC book she writes is her tough-as-nails heroines. No weak, or TSTL heroines in her books and I love that! In fact, Sid is a woman after my own heart- she doesn't hesitate to throw out the F-bomb or call out someone when she needs to speak her mind. She is an all-around complete badass! I LOVED her. She's a professional but has the potty mouth from hell. She's attracted to this biker but isn't quick to jump into a permanent relationship with someone who's clearly got a history of violence and crime. She's realistic... But are her feelings for Muse enough to outweigh the bad that surrounds him? Who's the true Muse- the outlaw with a rap sheet, or the sweet caring brother, MC member, friend, and lover?
This installment was a bit less gritty than most of the Signal Bend books. I think I understand it though...this is our meet and greet with The Night Horde. Ms Fanetti is flawless in introducing each MC member and building their stories one book at a time. Each character has a book but they all revolve around the central Club scene. I'm seriously looking forward to each character having their stories told. Especially Demon. I sense huge angst with his book.
Although you don't have to read Signal Bend to read this series, I'd strongly advise readers to. That series was epic and it gives the background to this Club. Looking forward to all the awesomeness that is Ms Fanetti and her Night Horde badasses!
Ride on!
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5+++ Stars!
Understated, emotional brilliance!
This book, much like all of
Susan Fanetti's books left me completely emotionally spent. I have had a hard time moving on from it ... My mind keeps wandering back to relive the beauty of Sidonie and Muse.
The story is a slow build. Sid and Muse meet under unusual and stressful circumstances, but that doesn't stop the attraction. And even though their chemistry is off the charts, it's the deep emotional connection that takes time and makes this story so very wonderful.
Just like the title, both main characters are incredibly strong and courageous. Muse is a quiet, self assured strength. Where as, Sidonie is an independant strength of survival. Together they are a compliment ... A whole."I'm not trying to take you're strength away from you. I'm trying to add mine to it. That's what love is, right? That's what family is."
Even though this book is character driven, there are plenty of nerve wracking and panty melting scenes. At one point, the action was so intense that I was literally reading from between my fingers ... I wanted so badly to cover my eyes ... Talk about anxiety!
And of course, I cried. Yes, Susan Fanetti really knows how to turn me into a giant puddle of goo."I love you enough. I love you enough. I love you enough."
I cannot give enough praise to this book ... If you haven't read SF's Signal Bend series yet, that's OK (I mean, you're crazy & missing out on one of the absolute best series ever written) this book can be read as stand alone. But, I HIGHLY recommend you discover the magnificence of her work!
♥♥♥
May I suggest you read:
Move the Sun
Behold the Stars
Into the Storm
Alone on Earth
In Dark Woods
All the Sky
Show the Fire
Leave a Trail -
5++ "I love you enough" STARS
I discovered Susan Fanetti less than a year ago through the rave reviews from
TeriLyn and
Irene and dove right into the Signal Bend series. Once I met Isaac and Lilli, there was no turning back for me. Ms. Fanetti is one of my top five favourite authors. I struggle to describe what her writing, characters and stories do to me…ACK, writing is my profession (I write speeches, articles, press releases, etc.,) so you'd think this would be easy yet, here I am speechless to bring to life her brilliance.
So, I’m borrowing the words of another…I took a quote from a book that I love to help explain the depth of spirit, bond and emotion that Ms. Fanetti’s books evoke in me.
“Every book…has a soul. The soul of the person who wrote it and of those who read it and lived and dreamed with it. Every time a book changes hands, every time someone runs his eyes down its pages, its spirit grows and strengthens.” – Carlos Ruiz Zafón,
The Shadow of the Wind
This story was deeply moving, fierce and brilliant!!
For me, the characters are always so special, real and original. They're rich with personality, layers of light and dark, right and wrong and strong in conviction, in force, in love, in most ways imaginable. This author knows how to create kickass heroines; strong, smart, resilient women who leave their mark. Sidonie Tuladhar is no different. While she may be slight and look fragile, this girl is full of fire and fight.
“I don’t want to be without you.” “Then stay.”
“Love me. Trust me. Trust what you know of me. That’s who I am.”
And then there is Muse, once a Nomad and now a soldier in the SoCal Night Horde. This man is caring and gentle yet fierce and demanding. He's comfortable with who he is and doesn't bullshit. In fact, most of Ms. Fanetti's men are contradictions but then again, in RL, isn’t that what most men are? I mean that in the best way possible.
My favourite part/quote:
“Muse?”
“Yeah, hon?”
“I’m falling here. Please don’t be an asshole.” His heart stilled, then restarted with a thump.
“You think I would be?”
“I don’t know. Please don’t be. Be honest and don’t play me. Respect me. That’s all I need.”
“That’s the only way I know how to be."
Absolute PERFECTION!!
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3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I'm a little torn on how to rate this one tbh. I struggled a lot with this h. I liked the H, so I think that made me struggle even more with the h and think he deserved better than her. I also wasn't feeling the club drama and skimmed some. The h found herself in some majorly messed up situations and it definitely doesn't make me want to be a social worker 😳 I feel like I disliked the h so much that I couldn't connect with anything else. It has some hot scenes though and they had the chemistry...but, sadly, otherwise I didn't feel like it had much else. I'm going with middle of the road "just okay" 3 Stars.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Sid and Muse's story. On Sid's first day in her job as a social worker, she ends up taking one of Muse's mc brother's sons away from his druggie mother and into custody. Muse is there to keep his brother under control in the emotional time, and they end up starting a hot fling. The more time they spend together and the more they get to know one another, they start to develop stronger feelings. There is some work and mc drama, some got sexy times, and some family drama too...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between focusing mainly on Sid and Muse in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Alright. There were some parts that felt slow because they dealt with mc drama and I did skim some but not too much.
Instalove: Yes in term of time spent together, but it didn't feel like instalove because they had a lot going on that sped things up.
H rating: 4 stars. Muse. I liked him. He was patient, sexy, and sweet.
h rating: 2 stars. Sid. I really struggled with her. I felt for her past trauma, but I didn't like how she was so quick to anger and being a B to the H.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Not in the typical sense
Sex scene with OW or OM: Not consentual
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had alright closure but with what I would call a HFN ending .
Safety: This one is probably Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences -
**** 4 ~You Are My Strength~ Stars
I can't seem to be able to stay away from a Susan Fanetti book and this one was a wonderful beginning to a new series. Strength & Courage, made me very excited for what's to come for the members of The Night Horde, SoCal.
So here we are again, more of The Night Horde and I loved it. True to her style Susan Fanetti brings us a very unique couple that seem like complete opposites but the attraction will take them on a sweet yet bumpy road of romance, passion and loyalty.
Sid is a social worker, she comes from a good family and had a great childhood but she's always wanted to help those families less fortunate than her. On her first day on the job she had to remove a baby from a home when she found the mother high on heroine, and as it turns out the father is a member of The Night Horde MC.
Muse is a very quiet and pensive guy and ever since he patched up with The Night Horde SoCal, he's been very supportive of his friend Demon because the guy has a terrible temper and is usually unable to control himself. When Muse meets Sid, the case worker for Demon's son he's very attracted to her exotic looks.
One night, Demon has the disaster idea to show up at Sid's house to try to convince her to help him gain custody of his son over the junky mother because he doesn't want his child to end up in the system but when Muse finds out about this horrible idea he's there to the rescue. Sid is afraid of the biker guys outside of her door but she's not the kind of girl to ever show fear, so she confronts them head on but what started as a very conflictive night will end with a very passionate encounter with the sexy Muse.
Muse and Sid know there's something strong between them and that it's more than just great sex but her job and family would never allow for her to have a relationship with a man like Muse and he simply doesn't do love, ever! What happens when Sid's strength and Muse's courage collide and help build the bridge between these two characters who had found true love?
Nothing else more for me to say other than I loved, loved , loved this book and I'm every excited to read every single novel in this series... -
LOVED!!! Loved the h, she is a strong woman and not a pushover. I loved the H as well and his sensitive side was a welcomed change. Can't wait to read about Demon.
On a side note, forgot all about the FBI agent Vegas from the Signal Bend series, would love to know if Fanetti is going somewhere with the storyline.
Re-read 7/2020. The club characters were more of a mystery. Author doesn't portray them as tight as the Signal Bend club. There were hints to H being a loner and quiet character but didnt get that impression. -
"Alone, I’m neither strong nor brave, but with those who love me, and whom I love, I am both."
Two words....
She's back!!!!!
I have been anticipating this book from the moment that I closed the book on the Signal Bend series. Never have a read an author's work that I was so captivated by. While reading Fanetti, I find myself slowing down, re reading the text, and doing anything I can to prolong the ride! Strength and Courage did not bring anything less than perfection to the table.
Muse is a brother of the Night Horde So Cal. He has lived a rough life and spends his days protecting his brother and taking care of his sick sister. His whole life changes when his path crosses with Sid.
Sid is a new social worker and becomes intertwined with the club when she takes a young boy away from his druggie mother. Little did Sid know that the boy was loved deeply by his Motorcycle driving papa! Demon (the boys dad and Muse's best friend) doesn't take too kindly to not being allowed to be with his son.
Demon takes it upon himself to drop in on Sid in the middle of the night. He is packing and ready to fight. Muse arrives on the scene. Although tensions are high, Muse is able to diffuse the situation and he does his best to smooth things over. Not only does Muse smooth things over but he also heats things up!
Things with Sid and Muse heat up quickly and believe me when I say it is delicious! One of the best elements of Ms. Fanetti's work is that she just doesn't waste any time. The story takes off right away and it develops into a beautiful story. Like an onion, the layers just keep peeling away to reveal more depth and heart.
Sid and Muse couldn't be more different. To say they come from different sides of the track would be the understatement of the year. Sid is strong willed and not afraid to be who she wants to be!
She has been through some trauma that has made her the woman she has become. She struggles to let go and let Muse love her and protect her.
"She liked to have a boyfriend, of sorts. But mostly what she wanted was a companion. Someone to go to dinner with, someone to see movies with, someone to have sex with. She didn’t think she’d ever want to live with another person, combine her life with his. How could two people live one life unless one person was in charge?"
Muse is no stranger to loss and heartbreak. It is Sid that breaks through and is able to breathe life back into his lungs!
“We all need to be rescued sometimes, hon. You rescued me. I just returned the favor.”
I just loved being back with these dynamic characters. Strong women and the men that love them. There is always high action and the promise of even more to come. We see a glimpses of Bart and Riley (sigh) and the brothers are just as enticing as the men of Signal Bend. Not only was the story of Sid and Muse another great one but the action of the club going toe to toe with the cartel keeps the suspense factor high!
Can I truly ever love another series the way that I loved Signal Bend? Only time will tell. However, if there is a possibility that it could happen...then Susan Fanetti would surely be the one to make it so. Bravo Ms. Fanetti! I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!
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Well, this wasn't as good as I hoped it would be...
I loved her Signal Bend series (yes, yes, I even liked that book), though the last one was a bit of a disappointment. Still, said I'd try again, I like her writing.
And guess what...?
This book was only... ok.
It wasn't bad, it was actually good (better than a lot of MC books out there), but it wasn't what I wanted it to be. I dunno if my expectations were too high, but I'll blame the author, she got me hooked on great MC books!
I'll try the next book too, I liked Demon (think the only character that I'm really interested in). Really hope I'll get that exciting, amazing story I'm waiting for! -
FIVE FLAMING ***I LOVE YOU ENOUGH*** STARS!!!
119 ratings and 39 reviews .... so far. Seriously, people, WTF??? Please read this book! This author's writing is so understated... I just hope that this is just the "growing pains" phase for her and her books.
I have to admit that I am a stalker of Susan Fanetti from day one, right after I've read Move The Sun, her very first book of the Signal Bend series, precisely one year ago (seriously, I just checked the date - Feb 2nd, 2014!) I remember how I excitedly wrote Susan an email asking her where has she been my whole life... She graciously responded that at that moment, she was writing her 5th book....
I read her every single book since then. Signal Bend series, Pagano Family series. Some of them I liked more, some less, but all of them were five stars for me. Susan Fanetti is always delivering a package of genuine and raw emotions to her readers, and I always trust her. Trust to hurt my feelings, to wrench my heart. Trust to show some romance in the circumstances where there would be no hope that any romantic feelings could possibly survive.. Her wicked brilliant muse can be unapologetically ruthless and bloodthirsty, that's her hallmark, and my friends know that I became literally sick after a certain book of the Signal Bend. Because I invested so much emotional pain in my reading. And to me, that's the highest praise - because she got me, she made me feel all those raw and complex emotions.
This new book seemed to be much lighter to me. But, as usual, there is enough drama and tragedy.
We meet the new characters, we also meet the old ones... One name - NOLAN - and we all (I think) - immediately think of HOVAC... And pause... And breathe in and out...
Bart and Riley, Show, Hoosier and Bibi. We remember them all from the Signal Bend series.
This book however is concentrated on the love story of two absolutely new characters - Muse and Sid.
Darren Musinski and Sidonie Tuladhar. The outlaw biker from the MC Night Horde SoCal located in Madrone and the social worker from The Central Office of the Department of Children and Family Services for San Bernardino County. He is almost 43, she is 32. They are people from the totally different worlds. And their worlds collide (literally!) and change them and their lives.
They are meeting under the conflicting circumstances, and Sid is very guarded and hesitant, she was burned by life before. They both don't do relationships. But I can see how Muse, straightforward as he is and the powerhouse of a man, slowly conquers the heart of the exotic beauty, who grew up in the life of wealth, with the dentist father of the Nepal origin and the French-Canadian lawyer mother, but who decided to change it in order to help fixing lives of the underprivileged children. Boy was she unprepared for this roller-coaster life...
It was beautiful to see how they both were falling for each other. Hard. How Sid was embracing a totally foreign for her life of the biker's old lady and adjusting into the world of the outlaw motorcycle club whose moral is more honest and real then the "legit", but corruptive world of Harrys and Marks...
“Say my name.”
Her mind blanked utterly. And then she remembered. “Uh—Darren.”
He shook his head. “Say my name.”
Oh. She smiled. “Muse.”
“Good girl.”
“...he dropped his forehead to hers. “I don’t want to be without you.”
She kissed his nose. “Then stay.”
“I love you. I can’t handle you getting hurt, too.” “There’s only so much control we can have, Muse. The rest is just…hope.”
“I LOVE YOU ENOUGH for anything. I’m better with you. I’m stronger. No matter what.” She leaned in and brushed her fingers over his new ink. “You’re mine. Now get naked. I want to fuck your brains out.”
Māyā Garchu
P.S.: Susan Fanetti! Thank you so much for incorporating the theme of Wuthering Heights into the plot!
And for HeathCLIFF and Tucker. My heart was melting every time they appeared in the story. AND I JUST CANNOT WAIT FOR DEMON AND FAITH'S STORY!!!! ONE MORE MONTH!!!
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Well, this sat on my Kindle waaaaaay to long. Great H/h combo. Awesome storyline and best of all a visit from the Signal Bend crew :D
I am moving on to book 2! -
While I really liked the Pagano series, I'm so glad to have this author back writing similar books like we read in the Signal Bend series. I looked for similarities between Muse/Sid and Issac/Lilly but there were none. You don't have to read the Signal Bend series to read this book but for those of you who have, Bart is the only carry over. Show, Nolan and Double A make a guest appearance. To put it simply, how can you not love a man who loves his BFF (Cliff the dog) so much? Nothing more sexy to me than a man who's not afraid to show his love for his dog. But even more so, how can you not love a man who takes care of his disabled sister? Not going there because I'm sure I'll tear up again. Muse is so patient with Sid as she struggles to find herself and fight through the dark sides of her previous life. I do believe the stories will evolve into something darker as the club moves back into the illegal activities with the cartel. I'm anxiously looking forward to Demon's story. Again, Susan Fanetti has captured my heart with all these new characters and a story that feels so real.
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5 "I Love You Enough" Stars
Oh how it was good to hang with the Horde again. I think Muse is one of my favorite Horde men. I really enjoyed this book, it was just the right amount of emotion and action. -
Fanetti always delivers. The unexpected. Sadly ...Real, in reading, has become the unexpected. No caricatures. No writing by numbers. Real, raw, always a pleasure. The alpha male doesn't adhere to the rules of the book alpha male. The strong woman is in fact a strong woman, but not perfect. faults and all. Families are messy and varied, with the chosen family, rather than blood ,being the one that nurtures .No one tries to fix anyone. No one is fixed. Just happier for finding each other.
can't wait for the next glimpse. -
Another great read by Susan Fanetti. There are characters from the Signal Bend series,it helps the story progress. While it is the beginning of this series and it is setting up for more books to come, there were some places that were a bit slow. Showdown, Badger and Nolan, it was nice to see them play a part in the story.
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What an amazing start to a brand new series! This might not be Signal Bend but these guys come as a close second. And I just know that with each book I read, I'll be just as invested and in love with these men as I was with the Missouri clan.
Sid is not an easy heroine to love but I think the only reason she rubbed me the wrong way in the beginning was because she reminded me of myself too much. She's such a strong woman but at times she was too stubborn. But even then, I could understand her need for control in her life.
Muse was a lot different then I thought he'd be but in a way it worked out better that way. He doesn't talk much and he doesn't seem to have many ties in SoCal except for Demon, his sister and his dog but for some reason he feels at home with Sid. Things happen quickly between the two and without either really knowing or saying it out loud, feelings changed and they went from strangers to more.
Outside the romance storyline, the stuff going on with the club is not my favorite part of the book. I'm worried this will be a repeat of the last series and I'm not sure I'm down to read heart break like that all over again with new people. I'm curious but also very weary for what could possibly be in store for these men but despite any reservations I may have, I know without a doubt I'll be sticking with this series to the end. -
Another guilty pleasure read and one that had me wrapped up in it from beginning to end. Both Muse and Sid have issues to work through and they make for an interesting back story. Having read the Signal Bend series, hearing Bart, Nolan and Show's names come up added a layer of familiarity to the story that you usually don't get with the first book in a series.
Knowing that Deme's book is next is fitting. Reading the teaser for this book on the Freak Circle's blog sold me. I'll be pre-ordering Shadow and Soul ( the Night Horde SoCal #2) -
Strength & Courage (The Night Horde SoCal #1) by Susan Fanetti is written with passion, honesty, and just the way the author wants it. It’s for those reasons that I enjoy Susan’s MC stories so much; it’s not often that an author writing in a popular genre doesn't succumb to the general pressure of the marketplace and just churn out cookie cutter books that follow trendy patterns. Susan’s MC books are unique, gritty, dark, dangerous, romantic, solidly written and have strong female leads.
The following may contain spoilers
I felt the book was well written, and a nice introduction to a new series.
One of my favorite quotes:
I want to take care of each other. I don’t want to be your property, Muse. I want what we have to be ours, not yours.”
Fanetti, Susan (2015-01-31). Strength & Courage (The Night Horde SoCal Book 1) (Kindle Locations 4680-4681). . Kindle Edition. -
Susan Fanetti has quickly become one of my go to authors. Her books are so fantastic, each book better than the next. I was excited to read Strength & Courage, the first book in the Night Horde SoCal series. I absolutely loved her Signal Bend series.
This book did not disappoint. Ms. Fanetti was able to introduce me to a character that at first glance, I wasn't sure that I liked (Sid) and then she made me understand her, relate to her, and ultimately fall in love with her. I enjoyed getting to know a whole new cast of characters. And for me, there is a scene in this book that is one of the most beautiful declarations of love that I've ever read. -
I have no compunction believing that Susan Fanetti is in the top of the crop when it comes to the biker romance genre.
This one said "Night Horde SoCal" and I didn't blink about it being connected to Signal Bend or cringe at the social worker-bad boy biker hook up.
Why?
Because I trusted that this author would make good. I counted on the characters giving off the Fanetti-esque notions of finding themselves, dealing with unexpected attraction and looming danger with loyalty and stubbornness, and speaking their minds and hearts no matter how soft or hard.
The two of focus here are Sidonie(Sid) and Muse. To get to the point, I thought Muse was a typical biker guy who was good with the life until he was better if that life included Sid. His personality quirks were unique enough, but not overly standout.
While I saw Muse as a biker boy who was a great distraction that would make an even greater "ole" man(he grew quickly on me), Sidonie was a heroine that really brought her own woes. She did several things that made her seem simultaneously reckless and contradictory. The reckless side could be forgiven as far as it led her to the biker boy hook-up, because what woman wouldn't want a hot slice of f***ing that that kind of man would bring? The contradictory side is that she is presented as a woman who has experienced enough to know caution and self preservation, so for the life of me, her stubbornness and decision-making in a couple of parts were really annoying.
Yet, Sid did nothing too untoward to make me dislike her. In fact she only had to exhibit that she had enough badass in her to keep me on her side. But with that all said and done, I really, really liked reading about Muse and Sid.
Fanetti has a way of weaving an atmosphere where the reader may feel like a fly on the wall and at once, an integral part of the group of characters in the story. Don't ask me how, but I felt like I was there when the club of men met and decided the club's fate. I was "feeling" certain people when discord arose, and whew!...really, I was infused when Sid and Muse set off fireworks for the first time.
Two things were mentioned and/or worked into the story. One rankled me and one had me reeling. The one that rankled me was the reference to the mother chapter Night Horde as . I was SO not seeing that comparison, especially since this book seemed to be more on the filler-transition side, introducing SoCal charter; therefore, it didn't have too much action or many highly pivotal scenes.
The thing that had me reeling involved a certain and very loved character from Signal Bend. I'll let you guess, whether you've followed the previous series or not.
In all, this can be put down as another good read from Fanetti.
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3.75-4.0 RATING- I was excited to read Strength & Courage. I'm a huge Fanetti fan and Signal Bend is one of my all time favorite series (even though my was broken more than once). So my expectations were definitely high before starting this new series.
Overall, I thought it was a good start. Susan Fanetti is an awesome writer so writing quality never comes into play. For me, she nails it every time. What did fall short was the general story line. I didn't like the heroine that much. She was difficult and just made everything much harder than it needed to be. I also thought there was a lack of chemistry between the two characters that was surprising. Fanetti usually has this power to bring characters to life and make you believe in their romance, even against the harsh backdrop of a criminal MC. I just didn't really feel it here. Don't get me wrong. The characters had sex and there was some dirty talk and all that stuff. But I didn't feel it, like really feel it, until maybe 70%. That being said, I'm really excited to see what comes next in this new series. It seems like the potential is there for things to get more dangerous, more grizzly, more violent. I'm not sure I can take it!! But... I'm in for the long haul-bring it on!
Note: At the time this review was posted, this book was available to borrow through Amazon's Kindle Unlimited program.
To see other books available to borrow through Kindle Unlimited or SCRIBD, check out the Subscription Addiction group
https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/... -
I really enjoyed this book! Susan has an uncanny ability of making you feel raw and so in tuned with her characters. I thought that Sid was kick ass! She was such a strong h. And please don't forget about Muse. That man is sex on a stick!! I love that he's older and still is in shape and fucks like stallion! I also loved that we had some scenes with Nolan!! I hope he gets a book in this series I would really loved that. There was also some action in this one. Drug cartels and crooked Casino bosses looks like the Horde is going to see some serious action. I am very looking forward to Demon's book!
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![Michelle [Helen Geek]](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1448463806i/5557851._CR0,13,200,200_.jpg)
05/12/2015 -- 3.5 Stars
I enjoyed this. The first by Fanetti that I've finished. I'll read more in this series. I enjoy a meandering story with good characters. This was exactly that. Pleasantly surprised.
I was Happy Reading this one. On to the next one. You probably will be too.
Note: Scribd available on date read. Loved Scribd! -
I'm to glad to start a new series with Susan Fanetti, and what's better than a spin off from my favorite Signal Bend series.
Muse is the kind of hero who mind his own business. Although I don't felt like he is a quiet man like the story wanted to portray him to be. He was pretty communicative and not too alpha. As the heroine had a things against possessive alpha males.
Sidonie is the social worker that responsible for Demon's toddler son. As Demon is a member of the Night Horde MC, this bring Sid into contact with the MC indirectly.
I think Muse and Sid relationship was pretty straight forward without much drama. Well, except for Sid hang up with her independence. She is the kind of heroine that refuse to rely on others and wanted to prove her awesomeness by doing everything by herself.
We learned previously that Night Horde MC is the one that engage with Hollywood, they were pretty clean now. Muse is not really happy with the current situation because they were earning less, which means he is facing some tough times especially he had to care for his bedridden sister. When there is a chance that they will get involve in a drug run, Muse was all over it. But of course, things are never that simply.
Why oh why, did I always felt that the MC always fighting a losing battle? It seems like they were the one who always got bullied and people dying. I just had a bad feeling with all that is going on between them and the cartel. And this new mysterious woman who lead a cartel? Holy hell. I kinda hoping she might turn out to be a heroine in the series. But I can't seems to find any of the male character here suitable.
By the way, I was shocked when I read the spoiler from
Leave a Trail, the final book of Signal Bend series. Since I haven't read that book yet, I was a bit baffled by what I learnt. -
So I tried reading
and well I couldn't connect with the characters for some reason. Anyhoo.... I was in a book slump for about 3 days I started books and I just couldn't get in to them at all. This was offered as KU book and I wouldn't have read it but am I glad that I did. There is a very strong plot to the book and the characters are really good as well.
I will continue with this series for sure.
