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Johnson Family Rules #1
Zander
It’s hard to get what you don’t ask for
Noah’s world turned on its head when he discovered his new boss was the gorgeous Daddy Dom he saw at DASH. He knows he should talk to him, but how can he do that when he ends up hurting himself any time Deputy Daddy is near?
As the chief deputy, Zander knows he needs to keep things professional with the newest deputy. That becomes harder each time Noah gets hurt. All he wants to do is swoop in and make things better. Maybe if he can find the mysterious guy with the intricate tattoo from DASH, he’ll be able to stop obsessing over the newest deputy.
An accident has Zander’s personal and professional lives colliding as he discovers the man with the tattoo is none other than Noah. Now that he knows Noah’s secret, the overprotective Daddy isn’t going away until he’s sure Noah is okay.
A little communication goes a long way, but after a misunderstanding and a lot of embarrassment, will the two ever be able to talk? If they can’t, one of them is going to need a new job. If they can, Daddy and boy might just discover that they are exactly what the other has been looking for.
Zander is the first book in the Johnson Family Rules series. When the Johnson family is around, there’s no telling what might happen. They are a family who loves fiercely and wants everyone to have their happily ever after. Zander and Noah are bound to be inundated with nosy people, embarrassing moments, and a unconditional support while they find their way as Daddy and boy.
Noah’s world turned on its head when he discovered his new boss was the gorgeous Daddy Dom he saw at DASH. He knows he should talk to him, but how can he do that when he ends up hurting himself any time Deputy Daddy is near?
As the chief deputy, Zander knows he needs to keep things professional with the newest deputy. That becomes harder each time Noah gets hurt. All he wants to do is swoop in and make things better. Maybe if he can find the mysterious guy with the intricate tattoo from DASH, he’ll be able to stop obsessing over the newest deputy.
An accident has Zander’s personal and professional lives colliding as he discovers the man with the tattoo is none other than Noah. Now that he knows Noah’s secret, the overprotective Daddy isn’t going away until he’s sure Noah is okay.
A little communication goes a long way, but after a misunderstanding and a lot of embarrassment, will the two ever be able to talk? If they can’t, one of them is going to need a new job. If they can, Daddy and boy might just discover that they are exactly what the other has been looking for.
Zander is the first book in the Johnson Family Rules series. When the Johnson family is around, there’s no telling what might happen. They are a family who loves fiercely and wants everyone to have their happily ever after. Zander and Noah are bound to be inundated with nosy people, embarrassing moments, and a unconditional support while they find their way as Daddy and boy.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
March 24, 2021
I absolutely LOVED the first half. I thought it was hilarious when Noah turned into a total clutz when Zander was around. And since Noah kept getting himself hurt because of that there was hurt/comfort all around.
But then the second half happened.
I'm a big daddy kink fan, but unfortunately I'm no longer a BDSM fan. Now I totally get that daddy kink falls under BDSM so I guess I have myself to blame for not liking this more.
But I hate contracts, limits, kneeling, and BDSM clubs. I like daddy kink because it mostly focusses on the caring aspect and not necessarily the more traditional side of BDSM.
So that’s why I disliked the second half. Because we suddenly had Zander coming up with a contract, and Noah kneeling at his feet. And doing a scene at a BDSM club is not really my thing. Except when it’s age play, then I can totally handle it.
This is not the book’s fault, but my own, since it’s obvious from the beginning that Zander’s parents own a BDSM club, and his entire family is into BDSM. But I guess I just hoped it would be more caring and nurturing and not so BDSM-y….
But then the second half happened.
I'm a big daddy kink fan, but unfortunately I'm no longer a BDSM fan. Now I totally get that daddy kink falls under BDSM so I guess I have myself to blame for not liking this more.
But I hate contracts, limits, kneeling, and BDSM clubs. I like daddy kink because it mostly focusses on the caring aspect and not necessarily the more traditional side of BDSM.
So that’s why I disliked the second half. Because we suddenly had Zander coming up with a contract, and Noah kneeling at his feet. And doing a scene at a BDSM club is not really my thing. Except when it’s age play, then I can totally handle it.
This is not the book’s fault, but my own, since it’s obvious from the beginning that Zander’s parents own a BDSM club, and his entire family is into BDSM. But I guess I just hoped it would be more caring and nurturing and not so BDSM-y….
October 13, 2023
Cute, sweet and kinky. Exactly what I'm used to from Carly Marie...and you can add a slow-burn also. Sometimes I really like a slow burn story, but sometimes I really hate the waiting for the characters to get their act together.... This time it almost morphed in the hate category, because I wanted these two guys to realize that they were made for each other and get all the unexplained misunderstanding out of the way. Noah was so cute, but oh so awkward every time he came anywhere near Zander. To make matters worse...Zander was his boss. Zander is the Chief of Police and Noah is the new patrol officer. It was funny, but exactly right...at least for this romance. I waited quite a while but finally saw the crush turn into love. Zander was so good in every way... and a "Daddy" in every sense of the word. He watched out not only for Noah, but also for one of his brothers who was a "little" but didn't have a "Daddy" yet. The brother is a firefighter, and his book is coming up. Can't wait! The family and their friends were really sweet together. Almost all of them work at the club...even Grandma! I can't remember the last time I read a Daddy/Boy kink without age-play being involved. I almost forgot how those work. I really enjoyed this book and the entire, wonderful, warm. lovable Johnson family and all their friends.
January 6, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyable. I really enjoyed meeting Zander’s family, but I had to knock off a star for the “new series” info dump about the potential MC for the remaining books. That sort of took time away from the budding relationship with the current MC. Probably just a “me” thing. 🤷🏽♀️
April 10, 2022
3-3.5 stars
I think that this book was good, but I wanted more of their everyday life. The beginning of the book was great, but then the incident happened with Noah and time slowed to a crawl and their relationship happened over a week… which sometimes felt like it worked and others it didn’t.
But overall I enjoyed this book Bolton Hill did a good job narrating and I wished Larsons book was on audio… he was my favorite side character, you really felt for him.
I think that this book was good, but I wanted more of their everyday life. The beginning of the book was great, but then the incident happened with Noah and time slowed to a crawl and their relationship happened over a week… which sometimes felt like it worked and others it didn’t.
But overall I enjoyed this book Bolton Hill did a good job narrating and I wished Larsons book was on audio… he was my favorite side character, you really felt for him.
March 18, 2024
Nah, not for me.
For a book that has its opening scene in a kink club and has bdsm and daddy kink, it felt like a weird choice by the author to wait until 50% into the book for the characters to get off together, and 75% until they had full-on sex.
Noah being the clumsiest person in the history of the world got real old real fast. And Zander's entire family (including parents and granma) always hanging out together at his parents' bdsm club, talking verrrrrry openly about all things sex, and having no problem doing scenes while family members were around was just strange.
For a book that has its opening scene in a kink club and has bdsm and daddy kink, it felt like a weird choice by the author to wait until 50% into the book for the characters to get off together, and 75% until they had full-on sex.
Noah being the clumsiest person in the history of the world got real old real fast. And Zander's entire family (including parents and granma) always hanging out together at his parents' bdsm club, talking verrrrrry openly about all things sex, and having no problem doing scenes while family members were around was just strange.
April 12, 2021
3.5 for the first in this series - lots of characters coming !
December 17, 2022
I couldn't put this book down. I loved Zander and Noah's story.
These two start off on the wrong foot. Although neither one knows that they are. I found myself laughing at these two throughout the majority of the book.
I got my first glimpse of Zander in the At Home series. I'm so glad he got his own book. His family is a hoot and I can't wait to read more about them.
I will say that I wish there was an order to read these since all of these characters seem to cross over in all the series. At the end of this book, I see that Larsen is in the Undisclosed series but yet he's one of Zander's brothers. I'm the type of reader where I need to make sure I'm reading them in order because the characters make more sense that way, regardless if they are "stand-alone" or not. These all seem interconnected.
Either way, I was pleasantly surprised again. I'm not big on the daddy kink, but for some reason, I don't mind it in these books.
These two start off on the wrong foot. Although neither one knows that they are. I found myself laughing at these two throughout the majority of the book.
I got my first glimpse of Zander in the At Home series. I'm so glad he got his own book. His family is a hoot and I can't wait to read more about them.
I will say that I wish there was an order to read these since all of these characters seem to cross over in all the series. At the end of this book, I see that Larsen is in the Undisclosed series but yet he's one of Zander's brothers. I'm the type of reader where I need to make sure I'm reading them in order because the characters make more sense that way, regardless if they are "stand-alone" or not. These all seem interconnected.
Either way, I was pleasantly surprised again. I'm not big on the daddy kink, but for some reason, I don't mind it in these books.
April 5, 2022
Soo ima give. This a nawl boo.
So for the Narrator Bolton Hill... I did like him I found his voice really relaxing actually ..
Until he said the word Daddy...
I just felt really uncomfortable for some reason with the Daddy dynamics in this book. There is a difference TO ME between having a Daddy kink bc...I mean HELLO older dudes, Sexy bears are hot!! And bedroom play.
But I only find it sexy in a sexual manner. Once that "Daddy kink" starts to get into MC' real life I kinda get turned off on the book itself which happens in this book.!!
FYI I like the Cover. And I have put some Carly Marie books on my wishlist on Audible!! So I'll be listening to another book sooner or later 🥰🥰
So for the Narrator Bolton Hill... I did like him I found his voice really relaxing actually ..
Until he said the word Daddy...
I just felt really uncomfortable for some reason with the Daddy dynamics in this book. There is a difference TO ME between having a Daddy kink bc...I mean HELLO older dudes, Sexy bears are hot!! And bedroom play.
But I only find it sexy in a sexual manner. Once that "Daddy kink" starts to get into MC' real life I kinda get turned off on the book itself which happens in this book.!!
FYI I like the Cover. And I have put some Carly Marie books on my wishlist on Audible!! So I'll be listening to another book sooner or later 🥰🥰
February 7, 2023
Audiobook Review
I have read every single book by Carly Marie and now I'm working my way through the audio.
I will be the first one to admit that Carly's books kind of need to be read in sort of order just so you know who everyone is. I would love a family/book list of who is who and what book you should read first.
Anyways, in here we have Zander, a Daddy Dom of the stern variety not the diaper kind and Noah, a young sub who is looking for his dream Daddy.
These two first meet each other in Zander's family bdsm club. Though Zander does not remember Noah's face, Noah recognized Zander as the hot daddy from the club on his first day at work as a sheriff's deputy, since Zander also works there.
Every time Noah sees Zander, he gets hurt. Culminating in Noah hitting his head on a St Andrew cross and needing to go to the hospital. These two bond and fall in love while Noah recovers.
While Daddy is used here, it is not a little story, in case anyone was worried. There is a little, but it's not one of the mcs.
This was my first time having Bolton Hill narrate a story and he did a good job. My nitpick has to do with the older 40 year old mc sounding so young and the 25 year old mc sounded older.
_____________________________
Twas quite a ride
I loved the first part of this book when poor Noah would hurt himself every time Deputy Daddy came around right up until after the concussion. Something happened with the writing but it didn't stop me from enjoying the rest. I do want to read about the rest of this family.
I have read every single book by Carly Marie and now I'm working my way through the audio.
I will be the first one to admit that Carly's books kind of need to be read in sort of order just so you know who everyone is. I would love a family/book list of who is who and what book you should read first.
Anyways, in here we have Zander, a Daddy Dom of the stern variety not the diaper kind and Noah, a young sub who is looking for his dream Daddy.
These two first meet each other in Zander's family bdsm club. Though Zander does not remember Noah's face, Noah recognized Zander as the hot daddy from the club on his first day at work as a sheriff's deputy, since Zander also works there.
Every time Noah sees Zander, he gets hurt. Culminating in Noah hitting his head on a St Andrew cross and needing to go to the hospital. These two bond and fall in love while Noah recovers.
While Daddy is used here, it is not a little story, in case anyone was worried. There is a little, but it's not one of the mcs.
This was my first time having Bolton Hill narrate a story and he did a good job. My nitpick has to do with the older 40 year old mc sounding so young and the 25 year old mc sounded older.
_____________________________
Twas quite a ride
I loved the first part of this book when poor Noah would hurt himself every time Deputy Daddy came around right up until after the concussion. Something happened with the writing but it didn't stop me from enjoying the rest. I do want to read about the rest of this family.
March 19, 2021
This is another sweet, steamy book from Carly Marie that I enjoyed thoroughly. Zander and Noah are so much fun.. although poor, poor Noah. I wanted to wrap him in bubble wrap (literally) and protect him from everything that was happening to him with his extreme nervousness around Zander after they met. But wow, they are so perfect for each other! Zander is the perfect Daddy dom for a submissive like Noah, though they had a lot of real-world stuff to work out (hello, boss Daddy). I truly enjoyed the development of their relationship and the way they each fit the other’s needs so beautifully. I also laughed a lot while reading this one.. the snark! Love the banter.
The romance is wonderful, but in addition to that... MAN I am so excited for another family from this author! This family is GREAT. Guys, there is potential for some hilarious moments down the road, too.. trust. And Grams! HA. I cannot wait for the next one!
The romance is wonderful, but in addition to that... MAN I am so excited for another family from this author! This family is GREAT. Guys, there is potential for some hilarious moments down the road, too.. trust. And Grams! HA. I cannot wait for the next one!
March 28, 2021
I really enjoyed the first half, but the second half wasn’t as good. I started to browse the story and was even skipping the sex scenes. I guess I was a bit bored...?
I mean, when the MC’s are police officers, at least add a few exciting work scenes.
I mean, when the MC’s are police officers, at least add a few exciting work scenes.
March 15, 2021
Cute, sweet and kinky. Exactly what I'm used to from Carly. And add slow-burn too.
Sometimes I love slow burn stories, sometimes I hate... This time I was in the hate category, because it seems I only read slow burns in the last month, and now I'm sick of it.
But not sick of this story, because I enjoyed despite of it.
Noah was so cute! I loved how awkward he got when Zander was close, it was funny, and exaxtly what I'm looking for in a romance. To see the crush turn into love. And Zander, ahh so good. Daddy all the way. I loved him and his family - can't wait to read more about this crazy family! A BDSM club owned by a family, so good, with the grandma too! Hahaha.
Loved that Colt was there to and helped Zander to take days off to be with his boy. They were really sweet together, Zander and Noah. I can't remember the last time I read a Daddy-kink without age-play, and I almost forgot how those works (LOL), but I really enjoyed reading the book.
Aside from the really, really slow burn, I liked the book. Can't wait for the other books.
Sometimes I love slow burn stories, sometimes I hate... This time I was in the hate category, because it seems I only read slow burns in the last month, and now I'm sick of it.
But not sick of this story, because I enjoyed despite of it.
Noah was so cute! I loved how awkward he got when Zander was close, it was funny, and exaxtly what I'm looking for in a romance. To see the crush turn into love. And Zander, ahh so good. Daddy all the way. I loved him and his family - can't wait to read more about this crazy family! A BDSM club owned by a family, so good, with the grandma too! Hahaha.
Loved that Colt was there to and helped Zander to take days off to be with his boy. They were really sweet together, Zander and Noah. I can't remember the last time I read a Daddy-kink without age-play, and I almost forgot how those works (LOL), but I really enjoyed reading the book.
Aside from the really, really slow burn, I liked the book. Can't wait for the other books.
March 3, 2024
I love a good Daddy story and prefer not age play and that is what I got in this book. Zander is the club with is brother (who is a little) and sees a man in the room, while drawn to him, he does not approach or make contact. Noah, wanting to relax before starting his new job on Monday, goes to the club and sees a Daddy and his boy. Attracted to the daddy, he leaves the room without saying anything.
Next week arrives and low and behold, Noah, new deputy, meets Zander, chief deputy, his boss and the Daddy from the club. He gets nervous and through a series of accidents, he embarrasses himself. At the club to try and forget, one final accident sets this romance on high and this ends up being a super sweet Daddy/boy, without age play.
I loved these characters and the secondary characters so much. This is on my re-read list and I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Next week arrives and low and behold, Noah, new deputy, meets Zander, chief deputy, his boss and the Daddy from the club. He gets nervous and through a series of accidents, he embarrasses himself. At the club to try and forget, one final accident sets this romance on high and this ends up being a super sweet Daddy/boy, without age play.
I loved these characters and the secondary characters so much. This is on my re-read list and I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
March 28, 2022
Sigh
Okay it's not the book. It's me.
While this is the first book in the Johnson Family series, it definitely features characters from the Finding Home series and would be better understood after reading at least some of those books. Otherwise the introduction of characters gets a little chaotic.
Characters:
Zander: Chief Deputy. Dominant who leans towards a Daddy.
Noah: Deputy. Submissive who leans towards a Boy.
There is no age play involved in this book. Noah is not a Little. He likes the rules and structure that Zander gives him while also enjoying the rewards and punishments that come with his submission to Zander.
The plot: Noah spots Zander in a BDSM club and instantly feels attraction towards him. Zander feels that same attraction but neither acts on it. When Noah starts his new job and finds out the sexy Daddy from the club is his new boss he becomes very accident prone. I think a good word to use here would be Twitterpated. When the accident prone Noah finally falls literally head over heels for Zander and ends up with a concussion, Zander takes it upon himself to nurse the poor Boy back to health.
My opinion: I had read a few books from the other series so I had a clue as to some of the many many characters that were introduced, however, it still felt overwhelming and unnecessary to involve so many extra characters. That aside, I felt almost bored with the story. The plot felt weak. Zander basically kidnaps Noah for like two weeks and everyone is like yeah that's fine. And their boss just gives them time off? In this economy?
Bottom line: fluffy. Cute. Reminds me of a show you put on TV just to hear some noise in the background. There's not a lot of substance BUT I did appreciate that the author made the point that subs and Doms do not come in one shape or size. Subs can be larger than their Dom.
Okay it's not the book. It's me.
While this is the first book in the Johnson Family series, it definitely features characters from the Finding Home series and would be better understood after reading at least some of those books. Otherwise the introduction of characters gets a little chaotic.
Characters:
Zander: Chief Deputy. Dominant who leans towards a Daddy.
Noah: Deputy. Submissive who leans towards a Boy.
There is no age play involved in this book. Noah is not a Little. He likes the rules and structure that Zander gives him while also enjoying the rewards and punishments that come with his submission to Zander.
The plot: Noah spots Zander in a BDSM club and instantly feels attraction towards him. Zander feels that same attraction but neither acts on it. When Noah starts his new job and finds out the sexy Daddy from the club is his new boss he becomes very accident prone. I think a good word to use here would be Twitterpated. When the accident prone Noah finally falls literally head over heels for Zander and ends up with a concussion, Zander takes it upon himself to nurse the poor Boy back to health.
My opinion: I had read a few books from the other series so I had a clue as to some of the many many characters that were introduced, however, it still felt overwhelming and unnecessary to involve so many extra characters. That aside, I felt almost bored with the story. The plot felt weak. Zander basically kidnaps Noah for like two weeks and everyone is like yeah that's fine. And their boss just gives them time off? In this economy?
Bottom line: fluffy. Cute. Reminds me of a show you put on TV just to hear some noise in the background. There's not a lot of substance BUT I did appreciate that the author made the point that subs and Doms do not come in one shape or size. Subs can be larger than their Dom.
November 1, 2021
I really like this one and I honestly think it's because I read them out of order. I read Larson's story in the undisclosed series before I read this one and so I kind of already got a glimpse into the Johnson family from that book. I can totally see why people have some complaints about character dumps and just this massive amount of characters that are thrown at you in this book because it's a lot. It wasn't as jarring for me because I knew it was coming based on Larson's book.
I am immensely intrigued by the Johnson family. They are a family of like nine kids and their parents own a BDSM club. Pretty much everyone's kinky and everyone overshares and it is absolutely unfathomable to me to have such an open family. But they're all a little bit wild and they love fiercely and care deeply and I do really enjoy them.
Noah is 100% the star of this book. He is so clutzy around Zander and I found myself cracking up at all of his misadventures. I loved the part where his brain to mouth filter wasn't working and he was just saying everything that he was thinking. The circumstances were not ideal but it was altered in some very funny conversations. I do really like Zander too, but I think Noah kind of carried this book.
This is a daddy/boy kink with impact play. There's no age play for the main characters but there is a secondary character with age play. Noah is gay and Zander is pansexual. Numerous secondary queer characters.
I am immensely intrigued by the Johnson family. They are a family of like nine kids and their parents own a BDSM club. Pretty much everyone's kinky and everyone overshares and it is absolutely unfathomable to me to have such an open family. But they're all a little bit wild and they love fiercely and care deeply and I do really enjoy them.
Noah is 100% the star of this book. He is so clutzy around Zander and I found myself cracking up at all of his misadventures. I loved the part where his brain to mouth filter wasn't working and he was just saying everything that he was thinking. The circumstances were not ideal but it was altered in some very funny conversations. I do really like Zander too, but I think Noah kind of carried this book.
This is a daddy/boy kink with impact play. There's no age play for the main characters but there is a secondary character with age play. Noah is gay and Zander is pansexual. Numerous secondary queer characters.
March 23, 2021
Ok
This one was ok. I liked it to begin with, the get together was cute but the plot line in the middle with the concussion made the rest of the story lazy. It was also way longer than it needed to be. Admittedly, from almost the beginning I cared more about Larson’s eventual story than the MCs which never bodes well when you’d rather read the side character’s story than the one you’re reading. Still there were some great parts of the story and as always the author is a master with her writing.
I don’t care about the MC in the next book but I’ll watch this series for Larson’s book. I just hope I don’t have to wait so long that I hype it in my brain so much that when it’s delivered it’s a disappointment.
The BDSM is there but it’s barely moderate. The sex scenes are ok but won’t get you hot and bothered. This is a Daddy/Boy not Daddy/Little book, don’t let the description or first few pages fool you. While there is a little in this book you get almost no imagery and it’s talked around.
This one was ok. I liked it to begin with, the get together was cute but the plot line in the middle with the concussion made the rest of the story lazy. It was also way longer than it needed to be. Admittedly, from almost the beginning I cared more about Larson’s eventual story than the MCs which never bodes well when you’d rather read the side character’s story than the one you’re reading. Still there were some great parts of the story and as always the author is a master with her writing.
I don’t care about the MC in the next book but I’ll watch this series for Larson’s book. I just hope I don’t have to wait so long that I hype it in my brain so much that when it’s delivered it’s a disappointment.
The BDSM is there but it’s barely moderate. The sex scenes are ok but won’t get you hot and bothered. This is a Daddy/Boy not Daddy/Little book, don’t let the description or first few pages fool you. While there is a little in this book you get almost no imagery and it’s talked around.
April 18, 2021
Carly really knows how to write a brilliant Daddy/boy story and even though this one brings a little more Daddy Dom and a bit of a awkward clutzy boy - it somehow makes it even more sweet!
The dynamics between the characters are simply perfect and I eagerly flipped every page wanting more and more. Zander and Noah are adorable but also flawed and endearing and the circumstances surrounding them are both fun and engaging.
I think you would get a little more depth from the story if you had read her Finding Home series so that you can more simply grasp some of the side character dynamics, but it wouldn't be necessary.
Overall, this is a stunningly sweet story with plenty to enjoy. I'm sure I'll be reading it again soon!
The dynamics between the characters are simply perfect and I eagerly flipped every page wanting more and more. Zander and Noah are adorable but also flawed and endearing and the circumstances surrounding them are both fun and engaging.
I think you would get a little more depth from the story if you had read her Finding Home series so that you can more simply grasp some of the side character dynamics, but it wouldn't be necessary.
Overall, this is a stunningly sweet story with plenty to enjoy. I'm sure I'll be reading it again soon!
November 3, 2021
Underwhelming
*possible spoilers ahead*
I think the author had a real strong plot idea with this especially regarding BDSM. There was real potential there but the story fell flat in a lot of ways and felt rushed. I think if the writer added a bit more, it could have been a good story.
It’s hard to understand everything happening. You have Noah, who is a Little and is strongly attracted to his boss who is Daddy Dom and gets nervous every time he sees Zander. It’s cute at first but then becomes real boring fast.
You get really overwhelmed trying to understand Zander and his family dynamic and how his entire family owns and runs a BDSM club.
I think this could have been a lot better if the author didn’t rush things and put more depth to the characters.
*possible spoilers ahead*
I think the author had a real strong plot idea with this especially regarding BDSM. There was real potential there but the story fell flat in a lot of ways and felt rushed. I think if the writer added a bit more, it could have been a good story.
It’s hard to understand everything happening. You have Noah, who is a Little and is strongly attracted to his boss who is Daddy Dom and gets nervous every time he sees Zander. It’s cute at first but then becomes real boring fast.
You get really overwhelmed trying to understand Zander and his family dynamic and how his entire family owns and runs a BDSM club.
I think this could have been a lot better if the author didn’t rush things and put more depth to the characters.
December 13, 2021
Noah is a new hire deputy and a total klutz whenever he is near the Daddy of his dreams. Problem? That daddy happens to be his new boss. As much as I enjoyed reading Zander and Noah’s story, I am wanting to read Sheriff Colt and Derek’s or even Nathan’s story next. Yes, I’m reading these books out of order. But thoroughly enjoying the kink.
April 21, 2023
Hilarious and sweet all at the same time! Must read, although after I finished it, I found out that there are stories before this story! Especially about Colt and Derek, which I had a feeling that they already existed…
June 20, 2021
3.75 stars
Read
June 22, 2022DNF 20% a case of "it's me, not the book", because I wanted some age play and not just daddy kink. Maybe later.
August 2, 2021
Dazed and confused
This book went from zero to one hundred so fast it was hard to really keep up. I went into this think since it said book 1 of the series I'd be alright, but there are so many side characters and side storys it was hard to keep up with who was who and how they fit in. It left me dazed and confused more then once on who was who when in a group, or over the texts. It wasn't a bad storytelling and the MMC where cute, even if imo Zanders more Dom then Daddy, but honestly I think the author needs to put all the books into a sine series with a definite lead story to start introducing the family and friends so that people like me don't get lost in the side details. Even with the whole book read it left me feeling lost because of all the other side storys and people and although I'm curious to get more from the family knowing I'll have to read 2 or 3 different series to get it all is just annoying and I'll probably not continue on with any of them. I also will not be buying this book as I read it on KU.
This book went from zero to one hundred so fast it was hard to really keep up. I went into this think since it said book 1 of the series I'd be alright, but there are so many side characters and side storys it was hard to keep up with who was who and how they fit in. It left me dazed and confused more then once on who was who when in a group, or over the texts. It wasn't a bad storytelling and the MMC where cute, even if imo Zanders more Dom then Daddy, but honestly I think the author needs to put all the books into a sine series with a definite lead story to start introducing the family and friends so that people like me don't get lost in the side details. Even with the whole book read it left me feeling lost because of all the other side storys and people and although I'm curious to get more from the family knowing I'll have to read 2 or 3 different series to get it all is just annoying and I'll probably not continue on with any of them. I also will not be buying this book as I read it on KU.
April 4, 2021
Zander
By Carly Marie
I absolutely love this book. Zander and Noah are perfect for each other as Daddy and Boy. I love both of their personalities. Noah's self-talks always bring laughs.
The one character I truly felt for was Zander's brother, Larson. I so wanted him to be the focus of the next book, but alas I shall have to wait as Nathan is instead. Unfortunately Nathan was the one character I didn't connect with at all and he kind of irritated me. 😆
When I began to read this I didn't catch that it was the first of an offshoot series. So unfortunately I'll have to wait for each new book as it comes out. However I will mention that for certain characters in the book (such as Colt and Derek) it was clear I was missing out on a lot because I did not know the background history of their relationship. So I might suggest reading that series first.
The angst level is low. It's almost more of a romcom than a romance. The story is told from both Zander and Noah's POV.
By Carly Marie
I absolutely love this book. Zander and Noah are perfect for each other as Daddy and Boy. I love both of their personalities. Noah's self-talks always bring laughs.
The one character I truly felt for was Zander's brother, Larson. I so wanted him to be the focus of the next book, but alas I shall have to wait as Nathan is instead. Unfortunately Nathan was the one character I didn't connect with at all and he kind of irritated me. 😆
When I began to read this I didn't catch that it was the first of an offshoot series. So unfortunately I'll have to wait for each new book as it comes out. However I will mention that for certain characters in the book (such as Colt and Derek) it was clear I was missing out on a lot because I did not know the background history of their relationship. So I might suggest reading that series first.
The angst level is low. It's almost more of a romcom than a romance. The story is told from both Zander and Noah's POV.
April 9, 2021
2.5* At first Noah's clumsiness around Zander was kind of cute and funny but it really dragged out and then he ends up with a concussion at Zander's house and again, the relationship just kind of dragged. It was nice that Noah wasn't a typically cute little twink. Zander's family is a bit weird given they are all involved in running a kink club and know what everyone is into, but I suppose that's the deal here. I really just want Larson's story and have been waiting for that for a long time. If this hadn't been quite so slow I probably would have rated it higher.
March 19, 2021
Zander is a fabulous read. As in, holy crap, I love this Carly Marie story. The first book in the Johnson Family Rules series, I couldn't devour it fast enough.
Zander's family, aka the Johnson family, is awesome and totally not the typical family next door. The family's a large, mixed marriage one who definitely aren't shy about sex. His father and step mother own the BDSM club, his brother is a little, his grandmother the receptionist, and everyone has a story I can't wait to discover.
As for Zander and Noah, well, they first notice one another at the club. But Noah thinks Zander is taken. Next thing they know they are co-workers. Awkward, right? Oh how I adore the clumsiness that follows, as Noah is just so uncomfortable. Simply put, you can see it all play out as if it's a tv comedy where he trips and falls every time he sees Zander.
There's a forced proximity aspect, as an injury results in the men spending time together. Cue the developing feelings and ultimate relationship.
The boss/employee aspect is certainly entertaining, especially as Noah has no idea that others around them are involved in kink. Oh fun!
This is a story with plenty of misunderstandings, but none of them are the annoying ones that are just there to keep them apart. Instead, these misunderstandings tend to add some humor and keeps things interesting.
Zander and Noah are truly fabulous together. Zander is a Daddy and he's wonderful knowing what Noah needs. Their romance is a slow burn, but it's well worth the wait. They are sexually on fire, and Zander is a wonderful Daddy for Noah.
The author explores that there is no one type of submission, domination, little, etc. It wonderfully illustrates that whatever works between consenting adults is fine.
And if you don't enjoy the scenes with Larson, well, simply put, I am sorry. Cause they are beautiful! Simply beautiful! I can't wait for more of Larson.
The writing is amazing, with a perfect flow and a seamless storyline. The world building is everything with this one, and I just can't wait to read more.
Zander is a must read for any fans of Daddy romances or just fantastic romances in general. Carly Marie adds plenty of heart, heat, and humor into this wonderful story. I love the Johnson family and can't wait to get to know the others better.
Zander's family, aka the Johnson family, is awesome and totally not the typical family next door. The family's a large, mixed marriage one who definitely aren't shy about sex. His father and step mother own the BDSM club, his brother is a little, his grandmother the receptionist, and everyone has a story I can't wait to discover.
As for Zander and Noah, well, they first notice one another at the club. But Noah thinks Zander is taken. Next thing they know they are co-workers. Awkward, right? Oh how I adore the clumsiness that follows, as Noah is just so uncomfortable. Simply put, you can see it all play out as if it's a tv comedy where he trips and falls every time he sees Zander.
There's a forced proximity aspect, as an injury results in the men spending time together. Cue the developing feelings and ultimate relationship.
The boss/employee aspect is certainly entertaining, especially as Noah has no idea that others around them are involved in kink. Oh fun!
This is a story with plenty of misunderstandings, but none of them are the annoying ones that are just there to keep them apart. Instead, these misunderstandings tend to add some humor and keeps things interesting.
Zander and Noah are truly fabulous together. Zander is a Daddy and he's wonderful knowing what Noah needs. Their romance is a slow burn, but it's well worth the wait. They are sexually on fire, and Zander is a wonderful Daddy for Noah.
The author explores that there is no one type of submission, domination, little, etc. It wonderfully illustrates that whatever works between consenting adults is fine.
And if you don't enjoy the scenes with Larson, well, simply put, I am sorry. Cause they are beautiful! Simply beautiful! I can't wait for more of Larson.
The writing is amazing, with a perfect flow and a seamless storyline. The world building is everything with this one, and I just can't wait to read more.
Zander is a must read for any fans of Daddy romances or just fantastic romances in general. Carly Marie adds plenty of heart, heat, and humor into this wonderful story. I love the Johnson family and can't wait to get to know the others better.
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November 30, 2021Stopping at 67%.
I'm just not feeling it with these guys. The first half or so was okay, I guess, though more silly than anything else with Noah's clumsiness around Zander. And what eventually got them together? Another of Noah's clumsy moments. I honestly felt zero chemistry between Zander and Noah. I simply could not see them together, no matter how much I read of the book.
After about the 50% mark it started really dragging.
There are a TON of characters introduced. It wasn't too hard to keep up with most of them, but I felt like it was too much about secondary characters (who will - I'm guessing - ultimately have their own stories) than the two main characters in this book. I found myself eager to see Larson (one of Zander's brothers) on-page and not so much Noah or Zander because, to be blunt, they bored me to tears. At least Larson had a sweet personality.
I'm going to go out on a limb and assume this series is a spin-off from another one? I felt like I'd been dropped into a world of characters (Colt, Zander's parents, etc.) and stories that I should've already known about. There's lots of talk about Zander's boss and his country singer husband (or boyfriend? I think it said husband) so I'm guessing their story had been told before. Same with a few of the others.
I don't think I've ever read this author before so if the above is the case, I had no way of knowing. I would've held off on starting the series had something been in the blurb about it having characters from other series - characters that play a big part in this one as secondary characters.
Another thing that absolutely drove me crazy... what's with all the books with !!!!!!!!!!!!! all over the place lately? A few can be overlooked, but almost every single conversation? It's distracting. No way would grown men and women be so !!!!!!EXCITED!!!!!! every time they say something.
I may or may not come back to it another day. Right now I'm just not feeling it. When you find yourself skimming over sex scenes it's time to move on. I want to know Larson's story but only his. Nate seemed too uptight and stuffy. I couldn't warm up to him. Seth seemed fun but not enough for me to be eager to see him find love. The others just confused the hell out of me.
I'm just not feeling it with these guys. The first half or so was okay, I guess, though more silly than anything else with Noah's clumsiness around Zander. And what eventually got them together? Another of Noah's clumsy moments. I honestly felt zero chemistry between Zander and Noah. I simply could not see them together, no matter how much I read of the book.
After about the 50% mark it started really dragging.
There are a TON of characters introduced. It wasn't too hard to keep up with most of them, but I felt like it was too much about secondary characters (who will - I'm guessing - ultimately have their own stories) than the two main characters in this book. I found myself eager to see Larson (one of Zander's brothers) on-page and not so much Noah or Zander because, to be blunt, they bored me to tears. At least Larson had a sweet personality.
I'm going to go out on a limb and assume this series is a spin-off from another one? I felt like I'd been dropped into a world of characters (Colt, Zander's parents, etc.) and stories that I should've already known about. There's lots of talk about Zander's boss and his country singer husband (or boyfriend? I think it said husband) so I'm guessing their story had been told before. Same with a few of the others.
I don't think I've ever read this author before so if the above is the case, I had no way of knowing. I would've held off on starting the series had something been in the blurb about it having characters from other series - characters that play a big part in this one as secondary characters.
Another thing that absolutely drove me crazy... what's with all the books with !!!!!!!!!!!!! all over the place lately? A few can be overlooked, but almost every single conversation? It's distracting. No way would grown men and women be so !!!!!!EXCITED!!!!!! every time they say something.
I may or may not come back to it another day. Right now I'm just not feeling it. When you find yourself skimming over sex scenes it's time to move on. I want to know Larson's story but only his. Nate seemed too uptight and stuffy. I couldn't warm up to him. Seth seemed fun but not enough for me to be eager to see him find love. The others just confused the hell out of me.
March 12, 2021
Zander: Johnson Family Rules Book 1 is the start of a new series by Carly Marie. It is a Daddy/Boy story but the Boy is not a little and it is about Zander and Noah. Zander is a deputy sheriff in the small town of Franklin, Tennessee. His boss is Colt (from her At Home book) and he has an interesting family. His parents own DASH, the local BDSM club, his Gram is the receptionist there, and he has 9 siblings. Since they are a close family they are always into each other’s business. Noah just moved to Franklin for his first job as a deputy and he is also a member of DASH. He sees Zander there one night and is very attracted to him but doesn’t know who he is or that he is going to be working with him. Once he meets him and realizes who he is, all kinds of clumsy things happen to him whenever Zander is around. This all happens because of a misunderstanding that finally comes out later in the book. Noah’s clumsiness culminates in an accident that puts them together for two weeks where they slowly begin their relationship and fall in love. In the background while this is happening are nosy brothers, other family members, and coworker; a dog that won’t leave them alone; and a concerned roommate. I really enjoyed this book. Noah was sweet and Zander was a very caring Daddy. The other characters and their antics really added to the story. I like reading about characters from previous books so finding Colt was in it was a plus. We are introduced to Zander’s brothers and get a little of their back stories so that entices you to read the rest of the upcoming series. (Nathan is next and I can hardly wait!) Ms. Marie is one of my favorite authors and she does not disappoint with this book.
September 18, 2023
Noah's world changed when he realised that the gorgeous Daddy Dom he saw at DASH was his new boss. He knows that they should talk but he just keeps hurting himself every time Zander is near to him. Zander is the chief deputy and he knows he needs to keep things professional with the newest deputy but that is hard when he continuously gets hurt and he just wants to make things better. He needs to find the mysterious little he saw in DASH with the tattoo so he can stop obsessing over Noah. An accident has Zander's personal and professional lives collide when he discovers the man from DASH is Noah. Now the overprotective Daddy isn’t going away until he’s sure Noah is okay. Communication goes a long way and if you don't ask for what you want you are not going to get it. If these two men can communicate, Daddy and Boy might just discover that they are exactly what the other has been looking for.
I enjoyed this story with the two strong men who were different in that one was a Daddy and the other was a boy. I loved the mixups that happened and that they added to the story although I did find the constant accidents by Noah to be a bit much towards the end of that phase of the story. I loved their relationship plus the deep love that they developed for each other and the accepting way that the Johnson family were so friendly and helpful. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with a BDSM-like DDLB story with a DDLB dynamic.
I enjoyed this story with the two strong men who were different in that one was a Daddy and the other was a boy. I loved the mixups that happened and that they added to the story although I did find the constant accidents by Noah to be a bit much towards the end of that phase of the story. I loved their relationship plus the deep love that they developed for each other and the accepting way that the Johnson family were so friendly and helpful. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with a BDSM-like DDLB story with a DDLB dynamic.
April 3, 2021
Story: 4.5 Stars
"Zander" is one of those stories that I finished wearing a smile. Daddy Zander and his boy Noah are so sweet (and steamy) together, their journey gave me all the feels. Some of those feels included wincing at the many times Noah invented new and humiliating ways to accidentally injure himself in Zander's presence early on...and ok, I also laughed at him a few times because the poor man!
I really liked how Zander's large family and MCs from the author's other series were so seamlessly incorporated into the story. The Johnsons are an entertaining and tight-knit bunch, and while there are a lot of them to keep track of, how they're all related is very clearly spelled out. It'll be fun following them along in this new series. I also appreciated the focus on body positivity and how Noah didn't fit the typical mold, much like Zander's brother Larson (I'm pining for Larson's story and HEA!).
This book works as a standalone, but I'd encourage reading the author's Undisclosed and Finding Home series to fully appreciate the many friends and relatives that crossover between them all. Plus, they're great reads. I received an advance reading e-copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily. (Also read in KU.)
"Zander" is one of those stories that I finished wearing a smile. Daddy Zander and his boy Noah are so sweet (and steamy) together, their journey gave me all the feels. Some of those feels included wincing at the many times Noah invented new and humiliating ways to accidentally injure himself in Zander's presence early on...and ok, I also laughed at him a few times because the poor man!
I really liked how Zander's large family and MCs from the author's other series were so seamlessly incorporated into the story. The Johnsons are an entertaining and tight-knit bunch, and while there are a lot of them to keep track of, how they're all related is very clearly spelled out. It'll be fun following them along in this new series. I also appreciated the focus on body positivity and how Noah didn't fit the typical mold, much like Zander's brother Larson (I'm pining for Larson's story and HEA!).
This book works as a standalone, but I'd encourage reading the author's Undisclosed and Finding Home series to fully appreciate the many friends and relatives that crossover between them all. Plus, they're great reads. I received an advance reading e-copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily. (Also read in KU.)
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