Good and bad. Right and wrong.Life would be easy if things were always that simple.That’s never been the case for Henri Boudreaux.Son of a criminal. Ex-boyfriend to a Priest.Henri’s made a career out of getting in trouble and avoiding the law.So when he winds up in bed with it, he knows that things are about to get…complicated.But what’s life without taking a few risks?And what’s a risk without … few risks?
And what’s a risk without the threat of being caught?
No one’s ever accused Henri of being good man.
And Officer Craig Bailey is about to find out just how bad he can be.
more
*4,5 stars*
I’ve just come to love these characters when reading this series and was looking forward to finally read the story of Henri and I can’t wait to read the next one in this series!
Henri has been through a lot the past few years and doesn’t really do relationships. There’s a lot going on in his life but takes it one step at a time. When he first meets Bailey, there’s this instant attraction between them and the chemistry is palpable. Although there’s something holding Henri back, he can’t seem to stay away from Bailey even though there’s every reason to. Will both give in to their desires or walk away?…
4.5*
Well hello there Henri. I must confess you weren’t at all who/what I was imagining, but I’m not even mad about it! I loved your vulnerability and the softer side of you we got to see in this story. You are such a contradiction- all dark and broody and pierced on one hand, on the other this unguarded, hopeful, slightly broken man. I’m not going to say anything more about you, though- I want people to discover all the facets of the man that is Henri Boudreaux themselves!
Henri’s story was so much more than expected- in really the best ways. It was so touching, and much more emotional and heartfelt than previous interactions with the man would have led us to believe. I loved getting a look into Henri’s past, to see what made him into the man he is today. And I really loved seeing him so unsure of himself when it came to Bailey. I thought these two were great together, even as opposite as they are. This is a definite slow-burn/slow-build when it comes to a relationship between Henri and Bailey- there’s some avoidance and back and forth, from both of them. But when things come together, the pay-off is definitely worth it!
I’m really looking forward to Bailey’s book, as there’s a lot left to be discovered and revealed.
Henri is book 5 in the Confessions series by Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine. I think I may have found my dream men. These guys undo me. I want to get to know them instantly and completely. Their story consumed me and fascinated me. My every thought never strayed from them much. They demand your undivided attention, and by George, they got it!! I never wanted to be anywhere else but learning every little habit and idiosyncrasy the possessed. The way the evolved together was captivating, and the sparks that flew from their attraction was palpable. Both characters have this intensity that is stunning and so brutally masculine, it becomes an obsession reading about them.
It was a pleasure to read their story, and I can’t wait for more of this series and these characters. 5 stars
This book can be read as book 5 in Ella Frank’s Confessions series, but it completely stands alone and can be easily enjoyed by itself.
Henri is the story of Joel Priest’s secretive friend from his past. Readers have had glimpses of Henri throughout the Confessions series, but we really did not get a good look… not until now.
Readers also get an in depth introduction to Officer Craig Bailey; Henri’s love interest in this installment. The irony here though is that While Henri has a dark, sordid and possibly illegal background, Bailey is a good guy and comes from a long line of police officers. He himself is a police officer.
In typical Ella Frank style, this book is a super quick read…it will capture your interest and you won’t be able to put it down. And it’s sexy and steamy.
I devoured this book!
Well worth the wait of finding out who Henri & Bailey are.
Instant attraction, lust, Tons of blushing, finding oneself while learning about each other.
Henri stole my breathe away at how sensitive he really is even though his exterior gives off a totally different vibe.
Bailey is one sexy cop who Henri brings out a side to him you will never see coming. He is also such a oft and sweet man.
Their chemistry when together is
As they say, NEVER judge a person by their exterior.
Go grab this book & get ready for one heck of a ride!
5 popped
Ever since I met Priest’s ex, Henri Boudreaux, I’ve wanted to know more about him…about his past…about his love/hate relationship with Joel…about the demons and scars he hides behind his stoic and cocky demeanor.
Leave it to Robbie, the Princess, to bring Priest’s past into their present, but I guess without the little busybody, Officer Craig Bailey and Henri would never have crossed paths and that would have been a damn shame because these two together are damn hawt. And despite the fact that these two appear to be on opposite sides of the law, when it’s just the two of them, there’s no right or wrong, no good or bad; it’s about the rush they get from exploring each other’s body and the feelings that grow between them because as much as they shouldn’t work…shouldn’t have a connection, they do and while Henri’s still holding pieces of his past behind his controlled facade, Bailey wants it all, and I sure as hell hope that Henri finds a way to give it to him.
As heroes, I loved both Henri and Bailey. They’re an interesting pair and not just because Bailey’s a cop and Henri’s been known to break the law or at least skirt past it. But what’s been made clear throughout Henri’s confession is that his past with Priest and the reasons they went their separate ways actually led Henri on a different path – one that few know about and it will be interesting to see what happens when Henri’s entire backstory is revealed.
I do have to say that I struggled a bit with the emphasis on Henri’s feelings for Priest. Don’t get me wrong, I understand that they’ve knowns one another since they were young and that there seems to be some hero worship when it comes to how Henri looks at Joel, and I also get that the flashbacks were important to establish the why and how they seemingly went in opposite directions, but the way it was presented felt a little like Henri would never get over Priest, making me wonder if he can ever really have a solid relationship with Bailey.
That being said, I love Henri and Bailey together, and while there are definitely obstacles headed their way, they’ve built a pretty solid connection, which I hope will remain in place even after all of their confessions are made.
4.5 Poison Apples
Confessions: Henri is the fifth book in Ella Frank’s sexy, emotional, and addictive Confessions series. You don’t have to read the first four books in the series to fall in love with Henri but I do highly recommend it. It’s where we were first introduced to Henri and Officer Bailey. Two men on the opposite sides of the law.
Henri has landed in Chicago a few months ago and decided to stay. He didn’t really have a plan which was how his life went for most of his life but Chicago pulled him in. And maybe, just maybe it could be the sexy cop he ran into at the one place he didn’t want to be. He walked away then but he wasn’t about to walk away now. Bailey was the first man that sparked his interest in a very long time. He knew it wasn’t smart. He knew he should take that walk again but one night just wasn’t enough. Will it be worth the risk?
He didn’t know but he was going to find out.
Bailey wasn’t like this. He wanted dates. To be wooed. Not a one night stand with a stranger but this stranger was a 6 foot mystery that he wanted to climb. To devour. He knew it wouldn’t end well but he needed to let go and just feel. Is risking his heart worth it? After one night he already felt too attached.
Damn!! These guys are hawt! They are also new to all of this so it’s sweet too. I love how they have totally different personalities, backgrounds, and style but they fit. I can’t wait for the next book! I need to know what is going to happen next.
Quotes:
“Talking seems to be the politest thing I can do with you in a bar.”
Blue took a long swallow of his drink and then licked along his lower lip, and Henri’s eyes followed that slick path. “And who asked you to be polite?”
“I can’t decide if I’m happy or not that you texted me back. I was kind of looking forward to coming up with a reason for you to use your handcuffs.”
“So, what time does your shift start tonight, officer?”
Bailey reached for one of the fried mozzarella sticks they’d ordered and dunked it in the marinara sauce. “Why? Trying to decide between what hours you need to behave yourself?”
4.5 Confessions: Henri was oh so good! It was filled with mystery, surprise, humor, and lots of steam. The storyline keeps you wanting more and therefore it’s hard to put down. Henri is a mysterious, stubborn bad boy. We get to know more about him as the book goes on, but I’m sure there’s still even more to him. He acts like this tough guy all the time and puts up a front, but there’s a soft side, vulnerable side under all that and I can’t wait to see more of it. Bailey is great. He’s a hardworking, sweet, and shy guy who opens up more throughout the book. He’s got a heart of gold and believes in Henri and that he’s a good guy at heart. The two have their share of differences, but they also have a few similarities and that works perfectly for them. They’re such a great couple who have this insanely strong connection, both in and out of the bedroom. I can’t wait for Bailey’s book and everything that’s going to go down!
Ever since I met Henri in the other Confession books I’ve been dying for his story. DYING. He did not disappoint. I loved everything about him. So hot.
We get some of our favorite characters making some appearances in this one. I was so happy with that. I know the series is progressing, but seeing some of them felt like home. There is so much smoking hot chemistry between Henri and Bailey. It actually kinda surprised me just how much.
There is so much more to this book besides the relationship between Henri and Bailey. It added a whole lot more to this already amazing book. If you can get past staring at the cover of this (HOT AS HELL) drop dead gorgeous guy, then you will see just how deep Henri’s story is.
If you haven’t started the Confessions series yet, I don’t know what you are waiting for. Ella is a compelling story teller. She handles gay romance with so much talent and skill, she’s the gold standard for me. Please check her out!
Henri is the fifth book in the Confessions series by the fabulous and talented Ella Frank. Ella is one of my go to authors. I just love the way she uses words and creates characters you never stop thinking about. Some of my all-time-favorite characters are Ella’s! I’ve been very intrigued by Henri since we first met him. Yes, he’s sexy, but I just knew there was more to him than his look and man, was I right! I instantly fell in love with him. The swagger, the hair, dear God, the piercings! But he suffering inside. His past with Joel not fully forgotten and his insecurities about his worth are still alive and well. Then he meets Bailey. A sexy man who he felt an instant attraction to. Sparks. Lightning. Then he was gone. Only to show up again a few weeks later. What are the chances? Henri isn’t about to let him go a second time. Henri isn’t exactly on the right side of the law and Bailey is a cop. This should be fun! I could feel their attraction through the pages and I had to stop and fan myself a few times. I also cried and smiled a lot. I loved how Henri brought out a side of Bailey that he didn’t even know he had. And Bailey gave Henri something to actually stay for. A chance at happiness and love? This story is so fantastic! I’m not so patiently waiting for Bailey!
I can’t believe how quickly I devoured this book! Henri and Bailey are so freaking scorching hot together. Whew! Henri has always intrigued me and getting inside his head was as fascinating as I hoped for. Bailey is the perfect, true blue guy. Committed, loyal and a calming influence. I really am excited to see where this mix matched couple go. Because there’s no denying the crazy attraction that’s making it difficult to stay apart. Just leave it to Priest to somehow having a hand in bringing these two into each other’s world.
This was a bit of a slow burn for me. I throughly enjoyed it but I did go in thinking I’m not that fussed about Henri. I’m happy to say I loved him by the end. He’s an interesting character with many layers and we slowly peel them away the further you get into the story. We get a good insight into his past throughout the story which for me filled in a few holes from his appearances in the previous stories. I loved his history with Priest and their scene together was a real eye opener into the dynamics of their past and present relationship.
I did absolutely adore Bailey. He stole the show for me. He’s a hot cop with a heart of gold and a real sense of right and wrong. He’s the perfect person to soothe Henri while getting the confidence he himself needed to blossom. They have very intense chemistry which I think will only get stronger as their connection grows.
I liked how the story ended and I think Baileys book is going to really step up a gear. I think Baileys loyalties will be tested in all sorts of ways and it’s gonna be a fun ride to witness.
The scenes with Priest, Julian and Robbie are an added bonus. Just enough to keep the series fans happy without overshadowing the story. I’m excited for the next book.
Henri Boudreau is a luscious piece of a Frenchman with smoldering looks and an
Appreciation for hot unadulterated sex ….
A bad boy with a conscience ….
Bailey is a cop who has a body to die for who could be the recipient of the sex that Henri offers !
Bailey is not a bad boy …
. But can Henri get under his skin or to be true can he get on top of Bailey’s skin and into places that he dreams of..!
Henri has a harrowing past always on the wrong side of the law , his family , well ! No more to be mentioned …..
Bailey and Henri make a connection a burning connection , they sizzle together !
My kindle nearly burnt out ! But that is Ella’s writing hot as hell extremely explicit and descriptive , written so well that you always feel connected to her men..
The feelings from these men towards each other is beautiful , they didn’t know they could feel that drawn, added with the superb humor in this book so much more than five stars …
4.5 stars
Heat Level: 4
Ella’s done it again! Intrigue, steam, and heart and that is only the start!!!
Henri stole my heart! I’ve loved the Confessions Series so far and I found Henri so much more mysterious, genuine and compassionate than I expected. I felt for Henri throughout the story and my heart broke for him, his past and his unrequited love for Priest. Even though Henri doesn’t come up much in the previous Confessions books I do feel you need to read the previous books to fully understand Henri’s history and his connections to Priest, Julien, and Robbie.
Henri’s background is just as sad, dangerous and messy as Preist’s and my heart broke for Henri, his missed opportunities and the life he was dealt. He was forced into a life he didn’t want or understand at such a young age. He lived in fear and when his best and only friend disappeared he had no choice but to ‘toughen up’ and carry on. He always loved Preist/Joel and having Ella write that side of Henri and his love and care for the boy he knew and the only man he loved was a wonderful but saddening thing to read. Most of the story seemed to focus on Henri’s past and his connection to Priest. I kind of wish Priest knew the extent of Henri’s love and all that he’d wanted to do for him just so Henri could have that clarity and be able to move on.
I loved the connection between Henri and Bailey and really enjoyed how Bailey challenged Henri and made him want more than he did before. I found their connection healing and really look forward to more in Bailey’s book. I hope Bailey continues to be as level headed, strong, and fair person that Henri will need as the truth comes to light and I feel they are well-matched and will help heal each other and find what they didn’t even know they were looking for.
Their connection is off the charts and while the book mainly focused on Henri’s past and their lust-filled connections, I feel there is so much more depth to be discovered. I can’t wait to see where Ella will take us next and can’t wait for more of Henri and Bailey! The cop and the bad boy with the good heart, a well-made match that’ll set the pages on fire and make you fall for the bad boy and his cop with humor and heart! I loved it!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com
When I first “met” Henri in earlier Confessions, I saw the hardarse…the tough guy…the “do what I gotta do” guy. We know he’d do anything for Priest…but what we don’t see is really HIS side of the story. Henri’s story brings us full circle from his childhood with Priest to current day when Priest gets a second Happily Ever After. We see the boy he was, the man he’s become and the man he would like to be. My heart melted with every thought Henri had, with every feeling he tried to push aside. Ella brings us what I believe is a beautiful story of pain and possible redemption. There is so much more to both Henri and Bailey. Although Bailey may not have the demons that Henri has, he has his own issues with relationships and his personal needs. Can a man with a seriously dangerous past and a cop find a forever together? I completely enjoyed this steamy as heck read and want more, more, more.
Ella Frank has the ability to keep her readers engaged with the most likeable characters book after book. Henri and Bailey are no exception.
An unlikely match, Henri’s the hot, leather wearing, pierced ex of Priest’s, and Bailey’s the shy, gorgeous cop. Henri doesn’t do relationships but Bailey’s a relationship kind of guy.
When undeniable feelings develop between the two, Henri begins to change his mind about relationships but worries about his checkered past and what that might mean for his cop.
Robbie and Priest make appearances along with the Popped Cherry and Exquisite establishments but no Mason sighting. *Sigh*
As expected, the book is very well written and edited perfectly. This is not a stand alone. Looking forward to the conclusion.
4.5 stars
We are back in Chicago for Priest’s ex, Henri’s story…
Henri Boudreaux has always been considered a bad bet. His dad is a criminal, he used to be a criminal, and even though he is trying to do more right than wrong these days, you cannot take that edge away. He is the dark, mysterious, bad boy, but he also yearns for companionship and someone to accept him. He comes off as confident and jaded, but also has some inner vulnerability and self-worth issues. His past has marked him and left him with guilt, nightmares, and emotional scars. And he has already watched the only man who truly understands him and who he truly loved get married…not once, but twice. And that just adds to his loneliness.
Officer Craig Bailey is a good man and a good cop. He is coolheaded, positive, reserved, but also sexy and charismatic. He is a relationship versus one-night stand kind of guy, but a walk on the wild side might be just what he needs to let go.
When these two meet, sparks fly. But there are some starts and stops until they are able to explore their explosive chemistry. But what should have been a one-and-done, is hard to forget. They are under each other’s skin. Henry’s always been to one to run away, but maybe Bailey is the one who will make him want to stay. But pushing for anything more can be a challenge due to Henry’s past and secrets, and Bailey’s sense of honor.
Bailey’s family and best friend, Xander, and Henri’s ex Priest (along with his husbands Julien and Robbie) bring more depth and drama to the story. I love this Confessions world and spending more time with all of the characters.
This book is so full of sexual tension and passion. It’s about risk and reward, and vulnerability and the need to build trust. I love both of the main characters and despite their differences, they really seem like a dynamic match. There is still more to learn about these guys and definitely for them to share with each other. There is a dangerous edge to it due to the crime storylines in the background. This does not end on a huge cliffhanger, but does show the conflict they will have to overcome. I cannot wait to read more about them in the next book, Confessions: Bailey.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Ella Frank has done it again!
Confessions: Henry is definitely worthy of 5 stars!
You will know Henry from the previous books in the Confessions series and now we have his story!
Henry and Bailey are opposite in every way but that won’t stop the reaction they have towards one another. They both feel it and can’t get enough.
Henry has never had it easy, doesn’t think he deserves much and is fighting against his demons which are so heavily integrated into his horrible past. When he meets Bailey, a man that is his complete opposite he is immediately drawn to him but knows he should stay away. The problem is, he can’t seem to forget about him.
Bailey is drawn to and mesmerized by Henry, the bad boy from his piercings to his clothes. When he figures he will never see him again after the one night that never happened, fate throws them back into each others paths and now they have a chance to see where this relationship will go. But what will happen when the secrets that Henry is still keeping come out? You will have to wait and see when their story continues in Confessions: Bailey!