Swagger and Sass: a Lost Kings MC Novella

Good short story about Rooster and Shelby. Can’t wait to read more about them.

A Heart Melting Explosion of Southern Fried Sparks… “Swagger and Sass”, while newly released in this independent format, is technically the nineteenth installment and fifth novella from Autumn Jones Lake’s Lost Kings MC series (LOKI), (hence the 14.5 series volume designation). It is a quick literary diversion that focuses on downstate brother, Logan “Rooster” Randell, and Shelby, a hardworking, shy yet sassy, spitfire southern girl with a voice of an angel.

Rooster we’ve been growing love for, for several books now. Shelby however, while previously referenced, was never formally introduced, until this moment. One. Spectacular. Literary. Moment.

Here, using the backdrop of the Texas road trip outlined at the end of “Zero Apologies”, we continue down Lake’s path of brotherly bonding between upstate, downstate, and several of the outside clubs LOKI interacts with. We are finally afforded an opportunity to really see Rooster, the confident bordering on arrogant, yet quietly contemplative and observant downstate vice president, beyond his patch and position as VP. Allowing us to more fully absorb the man behind the cocky facade. A man who, as it turns out, is surprisingly sweet, gentle even when he wants to be. And when confronted with damsel in distress Shelby, well, let me just say sparks are the coolest thing flying around their scorching, panty melting, almost primal electric attraction.

I have to admit, I was honestly thunderstruck by this one. Mainly because I initially found them to be an unexpected, almost crazy pairing, the big, bad New York guy and the sweet, shy Texas gal. But it works! They’re both saucy and independent. They both know themselves and what they want out of life. It’s a story that is surprisingly warm in tone. A sweet almost tender story, despite the mind-blowing, explosive chemistry between them.

It’s a soul churning, emotionally demanding tale of two souls subconsciously seeking their other half. Souls silently crying out for love, and the complete companionship Rooster and Shelby consciously are unwilling to admit they both need and crave. And while it initially appears their meeting is pure chance. You walk away from this novella wondering aloud about fate. As the universe is obviously conspiring to put these two together, melding two souls into one despite their individual fight against any prospect of a forever-ever-after. And holy hell did I love every, single, word!

I dare say, Rooster and Shelby have become my new favorite LOKI couple. This installment ended way to soon! And I don’t think I can make it until July for the rest of their journey!! I’m addicted to this couple and was once again reminded of the phenomenon that is Autumn Jones Lake.

This was such a fun, sweet and spicy read. I really enjoyed the glimpse inside Rooster’s head and think he may be my new favorite but LOKI, but to be fair this happens with all the guys.

Rooster and Shelby are a couple that shouldn’t work on paper but it’s all fireworks when they get together. They had great chemistry and loved seeing these two characters be able to relax and have fun with each other. These two meet each other exactly when they needed each other. Both had big changes in their world and both carry their own burdens. Shelby was the Ray of sunshine in Rooster’s dark and complicated world and Rooster was the muse and boost of confidence Shelby needed to make her dreams a reality.

This novella is a great glimpse into the possibility of Rooster and Shelby and can’t wait to see what the future holds for them.

****author provided a review copy****

Love Rooster! Every time I think I have a favorite you add another hot Loki guy! Can’t wait to see where their story goes!

Shelby’s a sassy waitress from Texas who finds her self in an unlikely predicament where she makes a splash…literally.

Rooster, the Vice President of the Lost Kings Downstate Charter, is on a trip with his brothers in San Antonio. While strolling along the Riverwalk he sees a beautiful blonde in distress and springs into action.

Rooster’s no knight in shining armour, he’s a biker in tats and leather, and Shelby’s utterly drawn to him and his charm. Their attraction is explosive and after a few days they are quickly catching feelings for each other.

Rooster is aware that Shelby’s already “ruling his Roost” without her even realizing it. And unfortunately they live two separate lives across the country. Shelby’s gearing up to travel for her new up and coming career. And Rooster will be heading back to Downstate New York.

Where will their hearts lead them? Will they try to make something work for the long term or will they leave each other in the past as just a memory of a weekend fling?

Shelby an aspiring singer working two jobs to support herself finds herself drowning in the filthy canal until a handsome roguish biker rescues her. There is an instant attraction that neither dreamt possible.
“This man who’s making my insides melt with need by simply holding my hand.”
“His kiss does more than light a spark of desire. No, I’m a raging inferno of need in two seconds flat.”
Rooster saves his damsel in distress and finds more than he bargained for. Having made fun of the monogamous ways of the northern LOKI chapter he is suddenly (and shocking even to him), finding himself doing his own version of cave man theatrics to keep Shelby all to himself.
“Emotions I’m not familiar with roar inside me. What I said was true. I don’t want to break her heart. But she just might be the first woman in a long time who’s had the power to break mine.”
What do you do when you find the one that could be “the one”, but you live different lives in different states? These two are smoking hot together in wit, sass, and steam!! However, they both know it can’t last. Rooster’s life is in New York and Shelby is about to go on tour. Instead they soak up every moment they can together until their time is up.
I loved this steamy and sweet novella that left me begging for more!! Do they meet up in New York?? Will they try to make a relationship work?? As always, I can count on AJL to give us well written characters with details that make them come alive with intriguing and entertaining personalities. Awesomely entertaining story!! I can’t wait to hear more about Rooster and Shelby in The Rhythm of the Road releasing mid 2020!

***ARC Reader Review***

Swagger and Sass is another awesome story from the mind of Autumn Jones Lake. Badass biker from New York meets a sweet Texas girl and sparks fly.

Who knew Shelby’s white knight would wear leather and ride a Harley? Sadly, they live on opposite sides of the US. And to make matters worse Shelby is getting ready for her first country music tour while Rooster plans to head back New York with his MC.

Is what they feel for each other real?

Is it even possible that Rooster and Shelby can make this long distance thing work?

Or is what they have just a few days (and nights) of fun?

This is just the beginning of Shelby and Rooster’s story. A Happy for now ending. I am so looking forward to their full story, Rhythm of the Road, which is set to be released in summer 2020.

I always recommend you read Autumn’s other books in the Lost Kings MC series to get the full story. They are awesome as well. It will help with context and the understanding of who is who in the LOKI MC world. Happy Reading 🙂

I need more!!!! I love Rooster and Shelby!! The MC VP and a coming up country music performer! This little novella has all the stars and I can’t wait to read more!!

Love the main characters. Opposites attract!

Yes great lead in to the series