They’re the best of friends or the worst of friends. Neither one is letting go.THE FLAMEHere lies Louchana Valentine. She was a homeless, orphaned virgin.I never cared what my gravestone would say until I landed in deep with a powerful gangster. Lucky for me, my best friend happens to be ruthless too. I should feel guilty that he’s forced to turn on the man who’s been a father to him. Except … man who’s been a father to him. Except I’ve always known that Wren’s soul wasn’t as black as he claimed.
He was good.
He was beautiful.
He was mine.
He just didn’t know it yet.
And with Wren keeping me safe, I’ve got time left to rewrite the end of my story. But if he has his way, virgin is already carved in stone.
THE MOTH
I’ve never known anyone as alluring as Lou. Or as frustrating. Since the night she saved my life and stole my wallet for her troubles, I couldn’t stay away.
She became my onus.
My light.
My…anyway.
With nowhere to run, I’m forced to trust someone I never expected. At least with Lou safe in Blackwood Keep–far away from me–I’ll die with my conscience intact. Because she no longer looks at me with friendship in her eyes. Those iridescent blues shine with a different need entirely, and I’ve never been able to deny her.
This second installment in the When Rivals Play series is a continuation of the events that occurred in The Peer and the Puppet. Content suitable for ages 18+.
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A quote from Bebe Reid about this series:
“When Rivals Play is one story told in four parts. Each couple takes a turn telling this story with their own romance woven in. Think of the series as a relay race. Four and Ever (from THE PEER AND THE PUPPET) just passed the baton to Wren and Lou, but the race isn’t over yet.
This means there could be questions raised in book one that I don’t answer until book four even if the book is not about that particular couple. The romances are standalone but the plots are interconnected. This also means each couple is only getting ONE book regardless of what questions I leave unanswered.
Personally, I wouldn’t consider this a standalone. The couple/characters we met in THE PEER AND THE PUPPET are present in this book and as Bebe stated above the plots are interconnected, so to me, that means you can’t read one without the other, otherwise you risk not seeing the bigger picture and/or getting spoilers about previous couples. This book is Wren and Lou’s book (whom we got a glimpse of in TPaTP), but Bebe continues to set up Jamie and Barbie’s book (book 3, THE PUNK AND THE PLAYTHING), as well as developing some of Vaughn and Tyra’s story line, which is book 4 (THE PRINCE AND THE PAWN). AND this book sets up book 3.5, EVERMORE, which is an audiobook novella for Four and Ever, that is set to release May 27, 2019 exclusively through READ ME ROMANCE podcast. SO if you haven’t read THE PEER AND THE PUPPET, none of that would be relevant, but like I said, I wouldn’t consider, nor would I advise you to read these as standalones. Trust me, you want to the FULL picture while reading this series.
“Every day, the film we kept over our friendship became thinner, and I became hungrier. Lou was taunting me, pushing me, and the only part I hated was that it was working.”
This was the epitome of a “friends to lovers” storyline. SO MUCH RESISTANCE!!! I almost had blue balls…you know if that was possible for a girl. LOL. This was my reaction at about 50% *insert JUST DO IT gif*
But I will say with this book, what I found unique (although trying on me at times LOL) was that it was the MALE character that was resisting the most and the FEMALE character that was the persistent one. Lou was a little temptress! Lou knew what she wanted and she was trying her damnedest to get it. Damned the consequences. But secrets were what kept Wren at bay. He knew these secrets would ruin what they had, so he wasn’t giving into the temptations and hurting her further.
The timeline of this book starts out at the same time as THE PEER AND THE PUPPET (remember it’s a relay race) but we’re seeing things from Wren and Lou’s POV and since they were minimally present in THE PEER AND THE PUPPET, it is NO WAY a retelling. Some of the storyline eventually overlaps, but once again, we are getting different characters POV’s so it’s different. I loved this type of story telling. It builds a whole new layer to the story and a different perspective. We get to see the other characters (Ever, Four, Jamie, Barbie, Vaughn, and Tyra) through different eyes and we also got to learn more about their character and plot development build. I really enjoyed the last 45%. Things started to increase in angst and the plot started having twists and turns that I was not anticipating. I am very curious to see how this all pans out for everyone!
By the end, I was very much wrapped up ALL the characters stories, especially the 3 guys and their love interests, from book 1. I am craving more of Jamie’s flattery, Vaughn’s broodiness and Ever’s alpha tendencies. I love all those guys in this series. So now I am even more anxious to listen to EVERMORE in audio now because that epilogue totally set it up. I NEED to know what’s going on between Four and Ever!
4 stars
Goodreads Reviews (complete with gifs): https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45485582-the-moth-and-the-flame
LIVE EARLY!
The Moth And The Flame is book 2 in the When Rivals Play world. It’s highly recommended you read book 1 (The Peer And The Puppet) first!
Another feather in the cap for bestselling author BB Reid. I was surprised with how much ANGST and SEXUAL TENSION she packed in this book! Be sure to have at least 4 spare pair of panties when reading because this book is
I can’t lie, when I first heard Wren and Lou are getting their own book, I was kinda nervous. They only made a cameo in TPATP and I wasn’t sure where Bebe felt they fit in and how she was gonna write them and incorporate them into this world but I should’ve had complete faith in her. She only writes her best and TMATF is the best in this series so far, if you ask me.
Lou is an underage, virgin orphan and Wren has been Exiled. The two together are unconventional and explosive. It was so entertaining to watch them go into a battle of both will and wit. I love the way all the gang is included. Yep, that’s right. We get to see more of Four and Ever (FOUREVER, you guys!), Vaughn, Tyra and even Jamie and Barbie (I can’t wait for their book!).
Such a movie like feel when reading this book. She’s one of those authors that comes up with interesting characters, unique and never read before scenes and sexual tension for the ages!
Perfect for fans of Penelope Douglas, Amo Jones, Leigh Shen or Shantel Tessier.
5 stars hands down, you guys. I’m trying really hard but I just can’t fault a thing. BB Reid strikes again!
*Reviewed by Ali at Fallen For Books
We finally get Lou and Wren’s story and let me tell you it was a great one. B.B. Reid gave us a slow burn of a story that made you laugh, cry, swoon and wanna shake these two till they got it together. I absolutely love Lou, I wanna be her Bff (forget you Wren) and all that entails. I’ll take her smart mouth, sass and all the emotions she tries to keep locked away. Wren, was a caring alpha hero who had no choice but to eventually give in to the inevitable. This book is perfectly titled after these two. There were twists and turns that were unexpected and added layers and depth to an already incredible storyline. I also loved seeing Four, Ever and my favorite Jamie (can’t wait for his story *fingers crossed). In all it’s a YA romance definitely worth a read.
I adore these boys from Blackwood, keep them coming! Every word draws you in and keeps you hanging on until the end, and you never want it to end! Wren & Lou have both been through so much heartache and horror when they meet and become the light in the dark to each other, but also their biggest torment. This book threw some amazing curve balls, some of which I still have many unanswered questions about- I can’t wait to read Jamie’s book, where I hope some of them will be answered! This book was absolutely fantastic, write more words Bebe!!!
Whew, so much drama. That drama had my eye holes glued to the pages, I couldn’t stop reading. In the last book, Four kinda drove me crazy. So glad she didn’t in this one. Lou drove me a little less crazy, she had her bratty and selfish moments, but she was young in the first half of the book. There’s a lot that goes on and I’m digging it. I’ll be over here waiting patiently for the next one. Jamie is next and so far he’s my favorite.
The Moth and The Flame is book 2 in the When Rivals Play series. While this is the love story of Lou and Wren, The Peer and The Puppet must be read first because there is a continuation of events over the course of the series.
Let me start by saying BB Reid SLAYED the whole friends to lovers trope. I don’t think there is a book out there that will come close to the bar she set with The Moth and The Flame. The push and pull, the angst that you could feel in your soul. If that isn’t enough to keep you glued to the pages, the suspense of the underlying plot sure will.
Wren absolutely stole my heart and soul. His desire to protect Lou and his love for her was so fierce. My heart ached at him holding back from more because he thought he wasn’t enough but he couldn’t stay away. He’s every teenage girl (or adult’s 😉 )dream come true. He brings new meaning to protective alpha.
“I’m the moth to your flame, Lou. I’d rather be burned a thousand times than be free of you.”
And Lou, that little devil! I loved her strength and determination to get what she wants. Her actions were at time immature but it fit her character. It got her what she wanted ;). Not gonna lie, if it got me a Wren Harlan banging down my door, I would’ve behaved the same way.
I never thought I could hate and love someone equally, but with Wren Harlan, anything was possible.
The angst level in this one is off the charts. There were times that I wanted to smack Wren and tell him to just give in BUT…it was so worth the wait. Wren and Lou’s chemistry is explosive and I was so happy when it finally happened.
The plot thickens in the world of Exiled and the underlying suspense of that world keeps the story moving a great pace. Family secrets are revealed and more questions arise. The last 30% of the story was pretty intense and action packed. I loved seeing Four, Ever, Jaime, Vaughn and the rest of the gang and I’m anxiously awaiting book 3.
“I’m the moth to your flame, Lou. I’d rather be burned a thousand times than be free of you.”
The Moth and the Flame is suspenseful, funny, heartbreaking and shocking. I could not wait to get my hands on this book!!! I’m usually not a friends to lovers person but damn…this book was amazing. B.B. Reid can flat out write. She takes slow burn sexual tension to a whole new level.
“I never thought I could hate and love someone equally, but with Wren Harlan, anything was possible.”
Lou has scars and doesn’t let anyone around the wall she has created. She is strong, badass, mischievous and I was rooting for her throughout the whole book. Wren….sigh…is troubled, strong, calculating and a protector above all else. Both are stubborn, one more than the other, but the connection they have cannot be denied. I loved this book, there were a few twists that had me surprised and didn’t see coming at all. We got to see more of the old gang which had me giddy beyond belief!! I highly recommend this book and this series!!!
“What’s mine is mine forever.”
~ Read on behalf of Two Darlin Dolls and a Book Review Blog
Wear Your Scars Like A Crown
PHENOMENAL!!! This is a Top Read for 2019! I cannot get enough of this series or these characters! If you fell in love with Fore and Ever, you will completely taken by Wren and Lou.
One fateful snowstorm and their paths crossed. She’s an orphan, he’s a criminal but together they form an unbreakable bond. No sacrifice is too great. Best friends…for life.
The back and forth, the push and pull between Wren and Lou is enough to drive you mad. But you will LOVE IT! Their relationship is complicated. Their love for one another is without limits, well mostly. However, her age and his secrets keep them from being each other’s everything. Lou is not deterred by Wren’s resistance and has no problem doing whatever is necessary to get what she wants. Wren just wants to protect her and he’s willing to sacrifice his own happiness to ensure hers.
This story is beautifully told. I was riveted from the first page. I fell in love with Wren and Lou’s story. The suspense will keep you completely invested. I had no idea what was coming next. The author took us on a crazy ride. You will get your fix of old characters and fall in love with new ones. She will leave you wanting MORE. I WANT IT ALL! There are more secrets to uncover, more story to be told. I will be impatiently waiting!
Wren and Lou’s story was sad, volatile, sweet and chaotic! The pull between these two from their initial encounter to the end of the read was so magnetic and unbreakable. This book had one of the slowest, most agonizing burns but when everything went up in flames, it was worth the wait!
I’ll never get over B.B.’s ability to write some of the most angst filled, cold-hearted, empty and broken heroes in any romance book. You can’t help but love these men, despite their gaping flaws and heartless demeanor. Wren was no exception!
Lou was so strong and stubborn, I loved her character from the get-go! Bull headed and independent, she forged her own way through life from such a young age and wouldn’t allow herself to rely on anyone until she crossed paths with her light eyed savior.
I was on the edge of my seat the entire read, first waiting for these two to hook up already and then for them to hold onto whatever they could to stay together and not ruin everything they’d built over 3 years. Around every corner was more deceit, suspense, betrayal and heart break.
More answers came to light that were left a mystery from book 1 in the series, which I was so thankful for! The appearance of Ever and Four made me squeal with delight. Their continued saga just added to the awesomeness of this dramatic romance read! I can’t wait to see where both of these couples’ stories go in book 3.
***5 Stars***
After finishing The Peer & The Puppet (like right after finishing it) I will admit to a bit of…hesitation over who the MC’s of The Moth & The Flame were going to be (at least according to what I put in my review of TPATP ~ so I can’t deny it) but I was also excited to get my hands on it because of the setup that was already in play and I am now kicking my own arse for even being slightly disappointed over Wren and Lou being the MC’s because I LOVED every second of their story…Ok. Maybe not loved, because there were those frustrating, I really want to ring your neck, moments, but overall, I was hooked and had a very difficult time putting the book down!
Lou. This girl. I adored her. I did. She is fearless and has no problem going after what she wants. Now, there are times where the method she uses aren’t always the best, but she lays it all out there and doesn’t apologize for it. Wren. This man, and he is a man regardless of how many years he’s lived on this earth, is kind of everything. His exterior may show him as cold and indifferent, but underneath is a man who has a good soul and a heart that will do anything for those he calls his own.
As for their besties to lovers journey. The push/pull was real in this one, but even with all the frustration these two put me through, it was definitely an enjoyable one. I loved how Wren did his best to not cross the lines he’d drawn in the sand as much as Lou’s antics at getting those lines erased. What made all of the crazy that is their relationship work for me was that underneath it all ~ and there is a lot underneath it all ~ was that they were friends, good ones, who truly cared about each other. Now, things do come to a head…a few times…and I’ll be honest and say I was more #TeamWren than #TeamLou, but, in the end, I love how things worked out for them.
TMATF was a great read, and just like with TPATP you do have to blur lines and accept the world that they all live in, but with that said, I do enjoy being dropped into this world and getting lost in it for a few hours. As for issues/triggers ~ I thought they were all handled well, especially the age thing. Then there are the twists and turns that happened in this one, I gotta say, I didn’t see those coming, but they definitely made sense and made the connection between the two books that much stronger for me. And of course, there are the supporting cast of characters, It was fun hanging out with Four, Ever, Vaughn, Tyra and Jamie and seeing what crazy they were getting themselves into, and though Vaughn and Tyra are the ones whose relationship I’m really interested in, I can’t say that I’m not excited to see all the chaos Jamie and Barbie will bring in the next book!
~ Copy provided by Social Butterfly PR & voluntarily reviewed ~
BB Reid has nailed the slow burning best friends to lovers romance with The Moth and The Flame. Everything about this book was pure perfection. The characters and the story completely consumed me, Lou and Wren are everything! From his grumpy, protective, secretive alpha male personality to her love of pushing the boundaries (and his patience) and giving no f’s attitude, both Wren and Lou won me over ridiculously fast. Neither of them are perfect but that just made me love them more. The sexual tension between the two of them was unreal. I felt every single bit of their frustration, believe me. There’s no doubt in my mind I was even more invested in their relationship than they were. The push and pull between them, their unbreakable bond, their history and the secrets and betrayal that are all tangled together, all make this book pretty much impossible to put down.
I loved The Peer and the Puppet but The Moth and the Flame has definitely knocked it from the top spot. With each book this series keeps getting better, the characters (old and new) make you love them, flaws and all, and the storyline has me more and more hooked with each page I read.
This book is amazing. It is, without a doubt, one of my top reads of 2019 and one that everyone should read.
The Moth and The Flame by BB Reid has created a storm of powerful, angsty, soul wrecking, gut wrenching and intense emotions in my heart. Lou and Wren kept me wrapped in the story from the first chapter till the last words in epilogue. I didn’t dare to breathe, blink or stop reading in fear of the spell of her words breaking. She delivered the perfect best friends to lovers story in all it’s devastating, captivating and sensational glory.
I have stopped talking about storyline for a while in my reviews and the blurb of the book is pretty detailed. Instead let’s talk about the characters. BB Reid built an empire starting from scratch. So the story was a paniful, agonising and extremely satisfying process. I got drowned in the glorious feelings of the love-friendship-hate between two broken, vulnerable and hurting souls. And trust me I was right there in the pages, in Lou’s room at her foster parents, the busy vibrant streets of New York, the mansions, the Impala, the snow, the sun, the bloodbath, the sex, the tears and every thing. BB Reid dragged me right in middle of the world of secrets, chaos, crime, friendship and love. I was reunited with the characters from The Peer and The Puppet who are very close to my heart. She kept me on my toes craving for the next chapter, next turn, next fall and next break. I couldn’t brace myself from the potent punches she kept on delivering.
Lou is an amazing girl. She is the kind of sassy, smart, loving, haunted , strong, proud, delicate and insane character who made me bow down in front of her powerful presence. And Wren is her other half. Broody, alpha, arrogant, possessive, protective, gorgeous, dangerous, mysterious..I can go on and on about his tempting qualities. I love BB Reid’s asshole alphas and Wren is a new addition to my list of favourite book boyfriends. And when two extraordinary and brilliant characters collide, you can expect fireworks to numb all your senses. The push and pull was driving me crazy! They were so much more than friends or lovers or soulmates . They were co warriors in fight for survival. They were the calm to their chaos; the soothing balm of companionship and sharing; the burning sting of passion, hatred and betrayal. It was a whole world of plesure and pain in their chemistry.
BB Reid has succesfully given me the worst book hangover possible. My mind is reeling from the topsy turvy storyline full of dizzying turns. My head is buzzing from the sweet torture of intense emotions. I am afraid she has ruined me for other books which will last quite a long time. Undoubtedly the best New Adult best friends-to-lovers romance of the year.
Received ARC for Honest Review