Living with my older brother’s best friend wasn’t even my worst idea lately.
Keeping it a secret from my brother was on the list too. Oh, and actually falling (literally) for Blaze Hellman—when every frown clearly said to stay away—was most definitely at the top of the list.
I was kind of a genius normally. I’d managed to graduate early and was about to open my own veterinary clinic in my home town of Hell. I clearly had my life together.
Until Blaze came back to town, moving slower than a sloth on crutches, more wounded emotionally than physically. We ended up bonding over stray dogs, exes from hell, and oddly enough, shared grief.
But helping him get his life back together could cost me my heart…and destroy his friendship with my brother. Will the heat between us create a situation that breaks all the bro codes?
Bro Code Hell is a steamy, romantic comedy between a wounded hero and his best friend’s little sister, complete with rescue dogs, annoying brothers, and a naked meet-cute. This romance ends with a hot, sticky sweet happily ever after.
Marika is a USA Today bestselling author writing steamy RomComs to make your heart explode and bring a smile to your face. She lives by the beach and posts a delightful number of hot lifeguard pictures.
Did you read and love Grumpy as Hell? Then you need this book! Were you intrigued by Blaze Hellman and couldn’t wait for his story? Then you really must read this book!!
Grumpy Blaze and chatty Annie are so freakin’ adorable. Together they made me smile, made me laugh, and made me want to give them big hugs all the time. This best friend’s little sister story was everything I wanted and needed.
Even though Blaze & Annie have known each other since they were younger, the way they “run into each other” after all those years is hilarious. I could picture it easily and I found myself laughing out loud so many times. These two were destined to be together from the start. …or at least from the bathroom run-in.
It’s also a grumpy/sunshine (which is a favorite of mine) and it was fun and cute and utterly delightful. Not only was there humor, it was also filled with heartwarming moments that pulled at the heartstrings.
The love Blaze had for Annie, it was powerful, I could feel it. The amazement he felt when he was near her, when he looked at her, when he thought about her made him even more lovable.
As opposite as they were, they couldn’t have been more perfect for each other. I loved the way she brought out the smiles in him. He didn’t want to smile and laugh, but with Annie and her incessant rambling, it couldn’t be helped. He secretly loved her talkativeness, craved it, looked forward to it, wanted more of it. Her love and acceptance and kindness helped him heal, more than his physical therapy.
I can always count on Marika Ray to give me a well-written story with characters who are easy to love and quick to make me swoon. Looking for a feel-good story with never-ending smiles? Read this book.
This book is A-MAZ-ING!!! I never know what to expect from Marika Ray , except that it will be exceptional! Each book is better than the last and I don't know if I ever could choose a favorite book or series, they are all so good....
Brother's Best Friend is my favorite! There is always a little sense of tabooness and then there is the angst that you feel thinking about how the brother is going to take everything! How much will he flip out? How bad will it be for his best friend? Well, that was precisely what made this book so good! Annie and Blaze were 🔥... the sexual tension they had from the very beginning was fantastic! This was a book that I struggled to put down. And there were some very funny "laugh out loud" moments! Definitely one y'all will want to pick up!
Oh my heart! I was thrilled to see a new story from one of my favorite fictional small towns. This best friend's sister romance did not disappoint! Blaze and Annie made a perfect couple balancing each other. Add to it the humor throughout and you have a story you will happily reread! I received an early copy of this work in exchange for my thoughts.
This was mostly enjoyable, but also pretty forgettable. I won’t go into the good stuff (well written, likeable characters, great chemistry), but a few things always irk me:
1) Blaze sees his ex and his description of her was off-putting and unnecessary. I don’t need to know his ex has lips men imagine wrapped around their dicks. It doesn’t fit in a romance!! Every description of her was about her beauty…enough already. 2) Sorry, but stupid names take me out of the story. Blaze? THAT’S his name? Can we just pick some normal names in romance books ffs. I’d love to know how many babies are born each year and are named Blaze. 3) Her brother’s reaction was a bit much. Two grown ups in their 20s/30s should be able to have a relationship without her brother yelling about him “taking advantage of her”. She’s not a baby. 4) I always find it hard to give books in a series 5 stars because I find too much time is put into developing secondary characters and storylines that take away from the romance (basically the entire second epilogue is setting up Callan’e story).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Once again, Marika Ray has knocked it out of the park and then some with her new release, Bro Code Hell. This is the second book in the Hellman Brothers series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. However, the Hellman brothers are all pretty amazing, so why miss out on the series? Each book is like returning home and catching up with old friends and family. This is Blaze Hellman's story.
Blaze left home in Auburn Hill years ago, and was living out in Los Angeles until an accident forces him to come home and get some help with his recovery. Living back home with his mom was driving him crazy, so he takes up the offer to stay with his best friend, Ben. Little did he know, but Ben would be going out of town for work, and Blaze would have an unexpected roommate in his absence.
Normally I would give a lengthy description of the story, but this one was just so good that I'm worried about accidentally giving away spoilers. The last thing I would want to do is ruin this amazing book for anyone! With that being said, this is a truly wonderful story! First of all, the characters are simply awesome in so many ways. Blaze is a troubled soul that needs healing, and not just from his injuries. Annie is a strong female lead, and has a heart of gold. She is always trying to make other people happy, and often puts her own needs on the back burner. That all changes when she spends time with Blaze. Sounds interesting, right? It would be if the "bro code" did not get in the way.
Marika Ray is a genius at character development and giving the reader characters that you cannot help but to fall in love with. Blaze is quiet and brooding where Annie is a chatterbox and outgoing. To say opposites attract is an understatement. Blaze and Annie have known each other forever, but to Blaze, Annie was always his best friend's little sister...and completely off limits. With chemistry that is off the charts and a friendship that is blossoming into so much more, will they continue to honor the bro code, or give in to what they are both finding impossible to resist?
In closing, I have to admit that Bro Code Hell had me in tears of laughter at some parts of the story! The way Blaze and Annie meet up for the first time is absolutely priceless...and hilarious! Of course, the laughter does not end with that scene...leave it to Marika Ray to invent some interesting and visual encounters. In addition to writing a heartwarming story with lovable characters, Marika is a master at injecting humor into her stories at exactly the right moment! Overall, this is a beautifully written story, and following the journey of Blaze and Annie was pure joy! I highly recommend reading this book...you will not regret it! If you have not read the first book in the series, Grumpy as Hell, I highly recommend that one, too! I will be patiently waiting for the third book in the series!
I received an ARC of Bro Code Hell from the author. My views are entirely my own, and are in no way influenced by anyone else.
Blaze is the second Hellman brother. When he returns home to Auburn Hill broken more than just in body, he finds himself unexpectedly living with his best friend’s sister. That would be ok if he hadn’t just noticed that Annie was no longer a kid. No, she was all woman, and he could not stop wanting to do more than notice. Their story can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. It is written in first person from an alternating dual POV. Blaze is grumpy and gruff, and I adored how Annie could make him smile and laugh. The heat between them, as well as their friendship, was undeniable. I loved his protective nature toward Annie, but also loved his support of her dreams. Annie is a mile-a-minute whirlwind who literally knocks Blaze over. I adore her confidence and her recognition of her own worthiness. Each character has an internal journey to complete. There is plenty of heat, some laugh out loud moments, and a beautiful happily ever after moment or two. I loved reading more about the Hellman family. The banter between the brothers and the exasperation of their mother is on point. I also really enjoyed Blaze and Ben’s friendship. There are a few swoony pet moments readers will not want to miss along the way. This was a wonderful addition to the series and a book I did not want to put down. The second epilogue creates the perfect set up for the next book in the series. I have to admit that I am really looking forward to the triplets finding their forever loves. I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
Everything Marika Ray writes is filled with romance, humor and an eccentric cast of characters, and we are always guaranteed a happy ending. All of the Hellman brothers are hunky and full of swagger and I couldn't wait to see what kind of woman could tame Blaze’s troubled soul.
Blaze and Annie are childhood friends whose friendship became more when they ended up living in her brother’s house while he was away on business. They kept busy trying to ignore their feelings until an adorable rescue dog named Tate brought them even closer together. Blaze’s love for Tate led him to consider starting a dog training business which Annie was completely on board with. Even though he was glad to be home, he still felt like he was floundering in a sea of self pity about his life. He was sick of rehab, he didn’t have a job and he regretted being estranged from his brothers who he hoped he could get to trust him again. His biggest dilemma was how he felt about Annie and if he even had a chance with her. Would Blaze defy the bro code he had with her brother Ben to pursue Annie, and did she even want him?
Annie most certainly did want Blaze and he was even sexier than she remembered. She wants to take care of him and put a smile back on his handsome face. Annie realized that she couldn’t help who she fell in love with and her brother would just have to deal with it. Annie’s heart melted when Blaze rescued Tate and she knew at that moment that their love was meant to be.
Blaze is kind of going through that ‘long, dark time of the soul’ and even though his family are trying to keep his spirits up, they don’t know the whole story and aren’t exactly succeeding. Maybe spending time with his best friend will help put everything in perspective. Annie needs a new place to stay. ASAP! Geriatric bedroom games are not what she wants interrupting her sleeping (or waking) hours. That could be easily fixed: her brother has a spare room that’s not being used. When the pair find themselves under the same roof, will Annie be able to resist her old crush on Blaze or will Blaze finally realize that the little girl he considered an honorary sister is all grown up and “brotherly” is the last thing he’s feeling? This book had all the swoony angst and tension that I expect from a best friend’s sibling/sibling’s best friend romance. But, it also goes to some places that I wasn’t expecting, making it deeper and more emotionally fraught. It still has all the snark and sass that characterize this author’s work, so don’t fear; you’ll still be doubled over with laughter witnessing the shenanigans of the residents of Auburn Hill. Also, the hint at the end of what may be coming next has left me absolutely panting in anticipation to get my hands on yet another Hellman brother. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
Another sexy, down-to-earth (in a crazy Auburn Hill way) romance.
Blaze and Annie's story was a pleasure to read. His grumpy, messed up past and difficult physical recovery, and her sunshiny outlook as she conquered her dreams (while escaping her grandmother's noisy love life... LOL) kept me swiping pages.
I loved the way Annie was able to draw Blaze out of his funk, and thought it totally adorable how well he could not only read her, but encourage her and tell her how worthy she was in life. The complication with Annie's brother Ben being Blaze's best friend added a nice amount of tension to the storyline... although I did want to whack Ben across the head at one point. 🙊
Oh yes, and Tate, Sugar and Spice were wonderful doggy characters... who can forget them? 🥰
As usual, I enjoyed going back to Auburn Hill aka Hell for another round of crazy-town times with the Hellman brothers and all those lovable characters. There were several cameos in this book with people I've loved in Ms Ray's previous Hell series, and the usual town staples (Penny! 😂).
It amazes me how Marika Ray is now on her third series surrounding the town of Auburn Hill...aka...Hell! Bro Code Hell is the second book in the Hellman Brothers series and it is just as good as all her others.
Blaze and Annie were so freaking adorable....they could not be any more different than they are. Thank heavens Annie is a talker b/c Blaze is a quiet one. I love how protective he is when it comes to Annie....even before they entered into a relationship....his protectiveness was on the brother/sister level. The fact that both of them were will to stand up to Ben shows how strong their feelings really are for each other.
Of course just like all the other Hell books there are so many loveable side characters. So many laughs are to be had when reading Marika's books. She is always my go-to when a romcom is needed! I am super excited to see what kind of shenanigans the triplets get into in the next books
The chemistry between Annie & Blaze was on point! There was no denying these two were inevitable. Marika definitely knows how to grab that tension and get it on the pages. I was happy to return to Auburn Hill (aka Hell) and get to know another Hellman brother, especially the mysterious Blaze.
The story may be predictable (best friend's little sister) but that's part of what makes it enjoyable. You know you'll get the happy ending, it's just what it takes to get there that changes. For me, the places they were in their lives and the past they came from completed the story in it's own unique way. [you won't get any spoilers from me!]
Just know, there is low angst and an eccentric cast of side characters. This story stands alone, but it's likely pull you into this crazy town called Hell and you'll want to read the other series, too. :)
Wow! Blaze and Annie are a whirlwind of fire, heat, sweetness, loss and obligation. I flicked through the pages fully immersed with need to read their story. It's funny as you'd expect from Marika Ray, and this has to be one of my favourite book openings of all time...injured naked guy in the shower and suspected intruder alert! The whole scene is hilarious as they realise neither is what they expected. Both just needed a place to stay, not knowing the other was going to be there. Those two hit you with the hotness straight away with awkward want. If you haven't been introduced to the town of Hell (Auburn Hill) then get started and catch up so you can read this...all are amazing books! Bring on Callan's story next!
Bro Code Hell is Marika Ray at her finest because I’m not sure that I’ve ever read a couple more perfect for each other than Blaze and Annie! Brother’s best friend and grumpy/sunshine, there is just something about them together that made me swoon. It didn’t hurt that the tension between them was palpable from the second they see each other!
With all the funniness that I’ve come to love from the Hellman brothers and the entire town of Hell (officially Auburn Hill), and just a small amount of angst as both Blaze and Annie come to terms with things from their past, this book gave me all the happy feels. I felt so proud of them both by the end and can’t wait for the next brother’s book!
We are back in Auburn Hill or Hell with Blaze Hellman's story. The Hellman brothers are quickly becoming one of my favorite set of brothers to read about. They are fun, loving boys that love to tease each other. Blaze Hellman is a man that is trying to find his way after an accident at work that has forced him to move back home. And Annie, is his best friend's little sister that ends up turning his world upside down in the best of ways. To watch these two dance around each other until they realized they were the best things for each other was just delightful. And to see Annie realize that she is worth it in the end and stand up for herself was so inspiring. I can't wait to go back to this special town to read about the rest of the Hellman brothers!
Wow! Blaze with his grumpiness and Annie with her happy sunshine just melted my heart and sent my hormones into overdrive! I’m so happy Blaze found a new awesomely fulfilling job and Annie got her clinic up and going. I wish I was better at articulating how this book made me feel. I was laughing, blushing, getting teary eyed, and fanning myself. I can’t wait to read more about the Hellman brothers and everyone in Hell!
~I was given this book and made no commitments to leave my opinions, favorable or otherwise~
This is another totally wonderful Hellman Brothers romance. I loved that this book could grab my attention and let my mind take a much-needed break from the real world. A delightful and charming blend of humor, heart, drama, emotion and heat flows smoothly across the pages. This book reads easily and once you are lured into this quirky world and meet its unique characters you'll never want to leave. Blaze and Annie were completely irresistible. Their chemistry was undeniable, and they made a very sweet and spicy couple that you just had to cheer on. This is my independent, impartial review.
Blaze and Annie are so opposite they should not even live in the same town and then they end up in the same house with no one to supervise them. Of course it’s going to be a great story. The story is going to make you laugh hysterically and cringe a little bit at the same time. It’s simultaneously hilarious and embarrassing and I’m thoroughly enjoying every second of it.
Grumpy vs sunshiny is my catnip and I’m having a blast reading this. I’m in love with every handsome Hellman brother and can’t wait for the next one.
An adorable “meet cute”, lots of fun banter between the Hellman brothers, Annie’s sunshine, Blaze’s grumpiness, sizzling chemistry, a fun grandmom, dogs, a protective brother and best friend, and some questions that need to be answered. What more could you ask for in a good story?
You’ll laugh, swoon and be rooting for both Annie and Blaze.
Marika Ray never fails to deliver and she did it once again.
I read this book in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down. Thanks Marika for the bags under my eyes! It was well worth them!
I loved this fun read with unforgettable characters I feel like I know, a great small town vibe, and a fantastic story about Blaze Hellman who returns to Auburn Hill aka Hell after being injured as a stunt double and his best friend's sister, Annie. Marika Ray never disappoints whatsoever and has given us another must-read in her Hellman Brothers series. If you enjoy well written romantic comedy, don't miss Bro. Code Hell. I received an advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
This had a little bit of everything: brother's best friend, close proximity, grumpy/sunshine, maybe a little forbidden-ness. You add all that up with the community of Auburn Hills and you get a crazy, fun book with a heavy side of romance. I loved that Annie was the sunshine to Blaze's moodiness. I loved the two meddling ladies who always managed to catch the two in some precarious positions. I loved that the two also had a love of animals which lead Blaze to a new love. I also love the small town feel when you know they have your back even if they are the ones spreading the gossip.
I would give this a solid 4 1/2 stars. I love these books set in Hell. They're fun, always woth laughs, but still woth a good story and characters and sexy times. It's always nice to see favorite characters pop in and out from other books. I've been enjoying grumpy/sunshine a lot lately, so this was perfect for that. I'm also looking forward to the next book which is looking like friends to lovers, which is my all time favorite
Blaze is mine mine mine (see what I did there as an ode to seagulls). Anyways. Even though he’s a grumpy and a man of few words, this made me love Blaze so much and I could not wait for his story. While I laughed and sighed at their craziness, I also felt and understood their pain and worries. Such a deep character to come alive and prosper with a insightful vet and the love of some incredible dogs. Big fan of this one and I can’t wait for everyone to get their hands on it.
Annie sweet and Blazes grumpiness were the perfect match. I loved how she pulled him slowly out of his shell. Tate was a great addition to the scenes with the two of them. Loved the big gesture at the end something you can count on in. Loved the use of Tate since he helped bring them together. Interested to see what’s next maybe Callan and Cricket? No shortage of characters in Auburn Hill and this one did not disappoint.
Blaze and Annie’s stories are one of best of this of Hell. Blaze is so lovable, but feels so broken and unworthy of love. Annie is hilarious and relatable. The break the Bro Code, and start a relationship, which is hot and steamy and what he needs to heal. They want to tell her brother but thinks it’s best to wait till he’s home. Things don’t always work as planned, and Ben finding out, is to much for their relationship to survive. But they can’t keep fighting what they feel.
Marika Ray has made me fall in love with another fictional couple! Bro Code Hell is book two of the Hellman series. We get to go back to Auburn Hill and we meet Blaze and Annie. Blaze is grumpy, but Annie can make him smile. They try to ignore their feelings due to Annie being his best friend's sister, but it doesn't work. They are hot, funny and perfect for each other. After you read this book read the bonuses.
Annie and Blaze are hot as Hell!! Lol I loved this story. Blaze shot the bro code all to hell by falling and sleeping with his best friends sister. Poor Ben, the way he finds out. Annie is a riot, a complete opposite of grumpy Blaze. A must read in this series and cannot wait to read what happens to the next Hellman Brother.
Loved Annie and Blaze so much they were on fire! I love a best friends sister romance and this was spectacular! Annie and Blaze were just perfect for each other. This was such a fun read and if you are needing minimal drama then this is the book for you! I also loved the dynamics between the brothers and I am so excited to see what is in store for them! Ps. I really hope Ben gets a book!
I didn't know Marika could write a hero I loved more than Ace Hellman, or any of the other boys from Auburn Hill, but I have just been proven wrong! Blaze Hellman just utterly and absolutely stole my heart and fulfilled all of my wildest closet romantic dreams! And I saw so much of myself in Annie, reading her was such a total joy! These two will set your heart ablaze! See y'all on another page!
Marika Ray never disappoints us, especially when we get to go to Hell. The characters are always thrilling and just plain fun. And always leaves me anxiously waiting for the next book in the Series. Romantic page turner - yes please.
I received a copy of this from the author in exchange for fair and honest review.