First, hate. Then, want. But in the end? Heartbreak.My celebrity life was supposed to be easy, and this movie was the biggest break of my career. But from the moment Officer Levi Fox gave me a speeding ticket on my way into town, he’s been nothing but a thorn in my side.Dominant. Cocky. Callous. Midnight blue eyes, a bad attitude, and muscles for days, he’s exactly the kind of man I should avoid. he’s exactly the kind of man I should avoid.
But as the Cold, Montana Police Department’s official movie liaison, he’s taken up a permanent place in my life that I can’t shake.
We fight. A lot.
Then, we kiss—and my carefully crafted hate toward him no longer feels so much like hate.
I’m falling
falling
falling.
But how often do alpha-jerks cushion the landing?
Note: Levi and Ivy’s story will continue in Book Two—Cold.
more
5 Star Review of Stone (Stone Cold Fox Trilogy #1) by Max Monroe
Where do I start? What a totally different book from what we have come to expect from Max Monroe. This was so far from what I was expecting and I absolutely loved it. Fair warning it ends on a bit of a cliff hanger, but thankfully book 2 will be released in April and book 3 in May so not too long a wait.
The story within the story was heartbreaking and I will say I was on the edge of my seat whilst reading.
There was suspense, intrigue and romance woven throughout the book.
Levi is the cop who has been given the job of police liaison with the movie company who is in Cold, Montana to film a movie based on Grace, Levi’s ex partner. Ivy is playing Grace and wants to immerse herself in what Grace’s life was about.
I really like Levi and Ivy although to say Levi acts like a jackass towards Ivy is a bit of an under statement. However their mutual attraction for each other ignites, sparks fly.
There are secrets that Levi does not want uncovered and he is determined to ensure they remain that way.
This was one of those books that I didn’t want to end, I read it virtually in one sitting as I was riveted to how the story would pan out.
This is a must read and I cannot wait to read the next book in the trilogy.
Max Monroe brought us something completely different with Stone, but they do not disappoint. Levi is not your typical swoony fella we normally get from this writing duo. He is broody, dark and to be honest, a bastard. Just when he started growing on me, he did something to change my opinion of him. Ivy on the other hand was so damn endearing. From the get go Levi treated her like dirt, because she was a constant reminder of his past. Their tug of war and battle of wills was tense and made my heart race on more than one occasion. The ending was freaking so intense and heartbreaking. I ran through the gamut of emotions. I can’t wait to see what happens in book 2.
We all love the comedy that Max Monroe normally give us, but I can’t stress enough how amazing this story is. It is a must read!
Holy crap… I need a moment…
Sometimes you read a romance novel, and while you may enjoy it, it’s out of your mind as soon as you pick up the next one- just like a piece of cotton candy. Sweet, yummy goodness- but then poof! It’s gone.
Not so here. Not by a long shot. Do yourself a favor and just Read. This. Book!
Stone is the first book in the continuing trilogy of Stone Cold Fox, and I simply could not turn the pages fast enough.
Ivy Stone is Hollywood’s sweetheart and a rising star. She has been cast into her latest role and is headed towards location in the small town of Cold, Montana. Her lead foot has her going far too fast, which leads to flashing red lights appearing in her rear view mirror. Officer Levi Fox of the Cold, Montana Police Department appears at Ivy’s window and instantly- he becomes that hero that you love to hate, and hate to love.
Levi is clearly a broken and struggling man. I had moments where I wanted to burst into the story and just shake him! While I understood how being appointed as the film’s official police liaison would be difficult for him, I still had moments where he made me want to give up on him. Then he would allow just enough vulnerability to peek through to make me want to love him again.
Ivy was a terrific heroine- she had such fire and strength. I loved how she always stood up to Levi and never let him get away with anything. With every scene, I grew to admire her more.
But that ending… Ahhh! Noooo! So cruel to end things right there! I felt things building, and even though I knew what was going to happen, I could NOT stop reading. I am immediately diving into Cold, because finding out what happens next is simply A MUST.
Seriously- do yourselves a favor and read this. You won’t regret it.
I’ve always felt that if an author has the ability to diversify his/her writing style, trope, genre, etc., still embodying what s/he is known for but also enticing old/new readers with a new perspective, a new storyline and/or a new layer of writing that illustrates other aspects of his/her writing prowess that that was a true measure of an incredible writer, and with Max Monroe’s newest release, STONE, they’ve wholeheartedly proven my assessment, allowing readers to see a whole different side to the comedic duo – a more dramatic side, and it’s one that I can’t get enough of, especially with where they left readers at the end of book one in Ivy Stone and Levi Fox’s story.
I enjoyed everything about Cold, Montana: its townspeople, its history, and the small town togetherness, and while that may seem a bit odd given the fact that the setting is where a serial killer took the lives of several young women, the way that Max Monroe tells the story of those tragic events, providing real-life insights as well as an outlet for the story to be told in typical Hollywood fashion makes it extremely intriguing.
But there’s definitely one member of Cold, Montana, who wants nothing to do with the Cold-Hearted Killer film, partly because Levi Fox’s past is completely wrapped up in what happened six years ago, and while he may somewhat understand why Grace Murphy’s family wants her story to be told, he still hasn’t worked through everything that occurred back then, and while it’s clear who killed Grace and why, there are details that Levi doesn’t want revealed…ones view people are privy to, and what he especially doesn’t want is to feel any kind of connection to the ‘entitled actress’ chosen to play Grace in the movie, even if he’s drawn to Ivy Stone and feels things for her he refuses to acknowledge.
Ivy Stone is not the woman Levi thinks or perhaps needs her to be, which is why after their less than stellar introduction to each other, it’s clear that the way they affect one another is both nerve wracking and unexplainable; their outward actions towards each other, especially on Levi’s end, are volatile and problematic, even if there’s something below the surface that proves just how much neither of them dislike the other regardless of what they say and how they act.
It’s the fact that Ivy and Levi affect one another so much that makes Levi act out because he’s spent the past six years going through the motions, doing everything he can to feel numb because he still hasn’t figured out how to let go of Grace and the events that ended her life.
But that’s where Max Monroe makes things even more intriguing – there are truths about Levi’s relationship with Grace that no one knows about and while the producers of the film take some poetic license when it comes to the events that happened in Cold, Montana, they are more insightful than they know, which complicates Levi’s life because as the police’s official movie liaison, he has no choice but to sit by and watch his life played out on film, reliving the darker moments of his life and forcing him to confront, not only the reality of his feelings for Grace but the real effect Ivy has on him, and while he’s done everything he can to sabotage any connection between him and Ivy, by the time book one ends, it’s clear that Levi needs to reevaluate what he wants and what needs from himself, from the Cold community, and from the beautiful redhead he can’t seem to forget.
I’m so glad that Max Monroe ventured into new book territory. The whole storyline is well thought out and it’s laid out in a way that takes readers through the complicated and layered lives of the main characters as well as providing their honest perspectives despite how they outwardly represent their feelings for one another. The secondary characters also play pivotal roles in not only Levi and Ivy’s ‘non-relationship’ but in offering an outsider’s look into the tragedy as well as a different outlook on the movie and what it will do, not only for their town but also for Grace’s memory.
I definitely NEED book two, Cold, ASAP because with what transpires at the end of STONE, it’s not only the Montana weather that needs to be unthawed!
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Ruthie –
This is the first in a trilogy, and we are warned that the story continues in the next book – but wow, that was an intense moment to end on!
I found the story to be made in many layers, which meant that we knew certain elements, which might then have an effect on other things which were playing out – it was intense in many ways. That was true in no small part thanks to Levi having to deal with a fictionalised version of his reality. He also had to deal with the intrusion and unpleasantness of a film crew, and one producer in particular being an ass. The way that Ivy and Levi settle their arguments was totally adorable and dripping with chemistry. So, there was a really good mix of film making, revealing of truths (of which I am sure there are many more), and a budding yet unwanted romance.
There is a fabulous twist in this story, which comes about in a really organic way, and which is signalled, but you kind of read hoping that it won’t happen! In fact, I had to stop reading, walk away, get another coffee, and then come back and deal with the fallout. Very clever, and sets up book two perfectly!
I hope I have book two on my Kindle very soon!
Mary Jo –
This is not your typical Max Monroe read but once again, they have outdone themselves. They are well known for their comedy and romance, but this book takes it to a whole new level. Levi’s angst is so real that you want to reach out and hold him and tell him it’s all going to be okay.
The small town of Cold, Montana is about to be inundated with lots of people to make a film about the grisly killings that stained the fabric of this small town less than a decade ago. Levi Fox worked those murders, along with his partner Grace Murphy, and now he has to relive his worst nightmare with the whole world watching. Again.
Ivy Stone has been hired to play the role of Grace Murphy. She’s read the script, articles about the murders, and truly wants to understand Grace and the steps she took to bring down a serial killer. As she comes into town, she meets Officer Fox when he stops her for speeding. Officer Fox takes an instant dislike to her and she doesn’t understand why until she realizes that he was on the police force as the same time as Grace.
As their dislike of each other grows, so does something else. Neither Levi or Ivy can stop thinking about each other, but as much as Ivy wants to get to know Levi, Levi wants to remain isolated.
When Levi begins to realize that Ivy doesn’t scare easily – and cares too much – he wonders what would happen if he let himself feel. However, being who he is and knowing he causes more pain than anything else, it doesn’t surprise him when he tries and fails to do right by Ivy.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
Reviewers on the Wicked Reads Review Team were provided a free copy of Stone (Stone Cold Fox Trilogy #1) by Max Monroe to read and review for this tour.
This series is so many things. It’s a stray from the usual laugh-out-loud humor that Max Monroe stimulates us with. This story is mystery, intrigue, shock, heartbreak, and tickles your obsession about morbid curiosity. Stone, Cold, Fox was ultimately the opposite of what I was expecting, that it intensified the reading experience. I became a part of this story. I became so invested in these characters that it is so hard to let them go. Since this is about murder, mystery, loss, and love, I don’t want to give anything away. However, if you enjoy getting into an intriguing novel that embraces the intensity of its characters, read this immediately.
I loved how different this series seems to be for these two authors.
When Hollywood’s favorite starlet is cast into the female roll of a victim murdered by a serial killer, she wanted to make sure that her story was told in away to help people see the real Grace.
Levi, is not happy with the story being told. It’s not just Grace’s story, it’s his story too.
He prefers to stay numb to the tragedy, but when Ivy shows up, that all goes out the window. She has started to make him feel things he doesn’t want to feel. Not just for his past, but for the woman who is awakening feelings he never thought he’d feel again for another woman.
The only problem is, he had so much anger and hostility towards the situation that he talked it out on her.
I look forward to the next book in this series.
NO SPOILERS!
OH. MY. GOSH! Stone was freaking AMAZING, and I absolutely loved it! Max Monroe excels at writing romantic comedy, but I loved that they took a different approach with this romantic suspense series. Max Monroe always keeps me happy and entertained no matter what I’m reading from them, and the storyline and characters in Stone captivated me from beginning to end. Max Monroe truly outdid themselves with this sexy, angsty, and emotional start to the Stone Cold Fox trilogy, and I’m dying to read the next installment, Cold!
The storyline was fantastic. I was immediately drawn into the plot and was hooked from start to finish. The concept of the story was unique and intriguing, and I absolutely loved everything. I also enjoyed the enemies-to-lovers aspect of the hero and heroine’s relationship, and I can’t wait to see how everything progresses in the rest of the trilogy!
The characters were phenomenal, and more than I ever could’ve hoped for. Levi Fox and Ivy Stone were amazing, and I fell head over heels in love with them and their story. Levi and Ivy had their moments, but despite some of their flaws, I loved their personalities and red-hot chemistry together, and I enjoyed how most of their relationship progressed throughout. I loved reading the book from both Levi and Ivy’s point of view, and most of their banter and interactions with each other. There were definitely some trying and hot and cold moments between them, but overall I loved everything about Stone. I also fell in love with the town and people of Cold, Montana. Max Monroe did an outstanding job setting the scene in this idyllic and mysterious small town, and I can’t wait to discover more as the trilogy progresses in Cold and Fox. I knew Stone was going to end in a cliffhanger since it’s book one in the trilogy, but Max Monroe left me dying for book two!
Stone was a sexy, angsty, emotional, and riveting introduction to the Stone Cold Fox trilogy, and I would HIGHLY recommend it! Max Monroe blew my mind with the first part of Levi and Ivy’s story, and I’m so excited to dive in to the rest in Cold and Fox!
4 out of 5 stars
I am a HUGE Max Monroe fan — seriously, huge! I was so excited to see a surprise release from them!! Stone, the first book in the Stone Cold Fox trilogy set an impressive stage for the trilogy and I can’t wait to read more.
Ivy Stone comes into Cold, Montana to film a movie about a murder spree that rocked the small town. Levi Fox is a police officer assigned to act as a liason for the film. He is also very personally invested in the story having lived through all of it himself. Their encounters are always rough – full of anger and hatred which really is just their response to the deeper feelings they are developing for each other.
I enjoyed the story and the flow was great. Having both points of view helped the story feel more cohesive. I just can’t wait to get the next book so I know what’s happening!!!
Holy Fucking Shit. I WAS BLOWN AWAY WITH THIS BOOK. 10 Bitchy Angsty Stars….
Max Monroe has done it yet again… When authors have the capacity of having you hooked from start to end, in one setting that fucking speaks volumes.
This was a surprise book yes but Fuck me what a pleasant surprise. This book was a breath of fresh air.
This book has so much Goodness in it…
Levi our Damaged Hero will have you wanting to Bitch slap him and two seconds later want to hug him.
This man can test the patience of a saint. I loved him and hated him. Emotions were through the roof. And the games he played made you wanna through your Kindle and at the same time you couldn’t stop reading. You won’t be able to turn the page fast enough.
My heart really breaks for Ivy and all the stunts Levi pulls. I honestly feel as much as she is meant for him he at this moment doesn’t deserve such a beautifu, Kind and caring woman. I hope that Ivy gives him a run for his money.
This Book is in fucking fire. I love loved it so much and I need the next Book more than I need air.
Enjoy this brilliant book ladies. And Try hard not to fall in love with this Buthead Alpha hotty. Levi is gonna give me Ulcers….
I’m loving the different feel of this book. I wasn’t really sure what to expect from one of my favorite duos. But let me tell you, Levi and Ivy need to work out their differences, in the bedroom. Naked style. I just love me a good hate to love story. It gets my blood pumping and it makes me root for the characters even more. Sexual chemistry between these two is all over the place!
The push and pull between Levi and Ivy was killing me. Levi is all cold one minute, then super hot the next. I was getting some serious whiplash from him. Ivy is one heck of a woman. She’s trying to prepare for a role in the movie that is being filmed in his little town and Levi wants nothing to do with it. He hates that he has to relive what happened that shocked the town 6 years ago, and he’s taking it out on Ivy. The hate is strong with this one. I thought it ended perfectly because I definitely want more of these two and I can’t wait to see what comes next!
DNF 40% Seriously?? There are 3 books??? Can’t even imagine where this story can go to fill 3 books. I could care less about any of these characters.
Max Monroe you pulled out every fluffing emotion in Stone. I cannot believe you left me with such a heartbreaking cliffhanger. Now I have the angst of waiting. A huge fan of Max Monroe’s books this one is totally different than the others and totally worth the read. Levi, you broke my heart.
I have to be honest. I read Banking the Billionaire and thought, “eh, it was so so.” This book is SO much more my speed and wow, I didn’t know they could write a book like this. It’s angsty!!! There is a big time “I don’t like you, but man am I insanely attracted to you” connection between Levi and Ivy. The pacing is spot on. I’m telling you, I liked it, A LOT! Can’t wait to read Cold!
Stone by Max Monroe is the first book in The Stone Cold Fox Trilogy. It is very different than the Billionaire Bad Boys Series. This books proves that the author is able to successfully write different types of books. I love the new direction and journey that Stone took reader on!
Ivy is complex and has a dark edge to her. She is definitely a multi layered character. Levi also is multi dimensional and he is self destructive. He has his reasons and he seems lost in them, almost to the point of no return.
I can’t wait to see how the story unfolds. I am very excited to read Cold, Book Two in the trilogy.
I hate cliffhangers, either put it all in one and charge a little more, or don’t publish it, until complete.
Fan-freakin’-tabulous! I’ve been a fan of Max Monroe since Tapping the Billionaire and I gotta say, I love this new book. The chemistry between Levi and Ivy, the setting, the plot and goodness the feels. All. Of. The. Feels. The character development was spot-on, the emotions you felt as the characters themselves felt was awesome; the push-and-pull between ivy and Levi in incredible, sometimes frustrating. This type of story isn’t what Max Monroe is known for, but the fact that they hit this out of the park with a darker, edgier story just shows the versatility of this dynamic duo and I cannot wait until the second book drops next month!
Great story but this is a real trilogy. You’re going to have to be prepared to wait until the next book, and I imagine book 3 too. But I loved Levi and Ivy. Their chemistry is explosive and their fights magnificent. Keep reading.
This is NOT a rom com, I repeat, this is NOT a rom com. I feel like I have to put that out there, because that’s what I LOVE Max Monroe for. HOWEVER, this book is just as, if not more, amazing as all that come before it.
I’m not going to spoil anything, I can’t, because this is book 1 of three, but what I will say, is the angst in this book is off the charts. My stomach is in knots with this story, and I can’t believe they are torturing me and I have to actually WAIT until April 22nd for Cold.
Favourite quote from the book:
I just had to face the facts. Levi Fox, it seemed, was a gentleman. He just had no interest in being one with me.
This is not your typical Max Monroe RomCom (oh Thatch! – he had to make it into this review SOMEHOW!). This is the start of a 3-book series and ends on a cliffhanger. So know that going in. And second, this is more romantic suspense-ish. There’s romance (even though they both don’t want it and deny it) but there’s also the underlying story of why Ivy is in town, which is where the suspense comes in.
Levi is beautifully broken and majorly hurting. You can see into him and how the whole scenario that brings Ivy to town hurts him and you want to fix him and smack him around for being such a douche.
There is so much I loved about this book but I can’t tell you because then it spoils it for you and I won’t do that! Just know books 2 and 3 come out fairly quickly so we aren’t DYING to know about Levi and Ivy.