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The Breakfast Club #3

Second to None

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Nightclub owner Marcus Feldman never met a man he didn’t love, at least for the night. Although his best friends have all found love, Marcus shuns their advice to commit to one man and settle down. His past has taught him monogamy and marriage is for fools, and Marcus is anything but a fool.

Tyler Reiss’s dream of dancing professionally is unexpectedly cut short and replaced by a different kind of love. He trades in his ballet slippers for go go boots, and spends his nights dancing at the hottest gay club in the city. Flirting with the customers for tips is easy, but resisting the dark and sexy Marcus is becoming harder to do with each passing day.

Unforeseen circumstances bring Marcus and Tyler closer and though they give in to their mutual passion, both still struggle to guard their hearts. When crises threaten, Tyler and Marcus find their strength in each other rather than falling apart. Tyler must choose to either run, or stay and fight for the life he wants, while Marcus realizes that love doesn’t mean losing himself and opens his heart, making him a better man in the end.

248 pages, ebook

First published January 28, 2016

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About the author

Felice Stevens

80 books1,603 followers
Felice Stevens writes romance because what is better than people falling in love? Her favorite part of a romance novel is that first kiss…sigh. She loves creating stories of hopes and dreams and happily ever afters. Her stories are character-driven, rich with the sights, sounds and flavors of New York City and filled with men who are sometimes deeply flawed but always real.

Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.

Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.

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Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].
2,596 reviews25.1k followers
July 2, 2022
Second to None is book three in The Breakfast Club series by Felice Stevens. I think this was my favorite book of these first three! I’m not really sure why, though. Maybe it’s because I’ve gotten to know Marcus some in the first two books and am already attached to him. Or maybe it’s the adorable little four year old girl that has everyone wrapped around her little finger. Regardless, this was a beautiful story!



Marcus Feldman is thirty five years old. He is the third of the three best friends we’ve been getting to know in this series. Marcus owns the very successful night club, Sparks. Marcus does not believe in monogamy. For him anyway. He learned enough growing up that it wasn’t for him. But he has to admit, he’s been feeling a little left out of things when both of his best friends now have partners. He saw how falling in love had changed their lives for the better but he still believed it wasn’t for him, until Tyler walked into his club.



Tyler Reiss is thirty three years old and is a professional ballet dancer. Only, now, with the unexpected responsibility of caring for his four year old niece, Lillie, Tyler is forced to give up his dream of dancing on stage and instead, is dancing on a different kind of stage at Sparks. The money is good which he needs to support little Lillie.



The owner of Sparks, Marcus, has a well known reputation for sleeping his way through the men of New York and Tyler is not interested. Even though he can’t deny his attraction to him. But when something terrible happens, it’s Marcus who steps in to help Tyler and Lillie without a second thought. As these two get to know each other, they discover the man that they each kept hidden. And neither can help but to fall. For Marcus, this is something he never thought would happen to him. But the prospect of life without Tyler is something he can’t accept.



This is such a beautiful story and I adored little Lillie. As I said before, I’ve gotten to know Marcus a little bit in the previous books and was so looking forward to finding out his story. Both of these men came from different back grounds but both had difficult childhoods. They just fit together. They filled in all the empty places in each other’s lives. They became a team whose first priority was taking care of Lillie.

I have enjoyed getting to know Julian, Zach and Marcus so much, and the men they fell in love with. The next book in the series, What Lies Between Us, takes us back to Zach and Sam to see how they are doing. I can’t wait.

For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...

Profile Image for Mirjana **DTR - Down to Read**.
1,425 reviews783 followers
February 2, 2016

***3.999999 Stars***

Maybe the greatest happiness wasn't the rush he'd get from sleeping with a different man each night, but instead it was waking up to the sleepy morning smile of the person you'd been dreaming of.


Right from his introduction I had a feeling that Marcus was going to be my favorite of the bunch....and boy was I right.

Marcus is the wealthy owner of the popular gay nightclub, Sparks. He loves his best friends Julian and Zach, but doesn't share their feelings when it comes to relationships. In his eyes, a relationship should only last as long as it takes you to finish your orgasm. He wants what he wants, when he wants it. He doesn't have any desire to factor anyone else into his life.

Tyler is a new dancer at Sparks. His lifelong dream was to become a professional dancer and make it on Broadway. However, life unexpectedly left him with more responsibilities than he had planned for at this stage in his life. He gave up his dream to do the right thing. Auditions, fighting for roles and touring with a dance company didn't have room in his life anymore.

Marcus is intrigued by Tyler. He's mesmerized by his dancing and his head-scratching denial of Marcus's flirting. Marcus is not used to hearing "no" from men. Tyler wants nothing to do with the wealthy and arrogant club owner. He's seen his type a million times before and he doesn't want anything to do with someone walking around on a power trip.

But when Tyler ends up in a bad situation, Marcus steps in to help the man that's gotten under his skin. Tyler knows he needs the help, but he refuses to owe anyone anything. Survival and desperation sway Tyler's decision and he takes Marcus up on his offer. Can these two men find a way to move past their own prideful issues and insecurities and realize that their preconceived notions of each other were completely off base? Can Tyler and Marcus realize that being in a relationship doesn't make you weak, but rather gives you added strength and support?

Love was the culprit; the enemy of independence and self-reliance.


Since meeting Marcus in the first book and seeing his jaded view of love and relationships, I just knew that I'd love watching this man's transformation. If there's one thing I'm a sucker for in my romance books, it's watching a stubborn and arrogant man evolve, bend and soften at the wonder of love.

Marcus grew up a neglected and lonely child, witnessing the obsessive infatuation of his mother and the cold and selfish betrayal of his father. Marcus's mother didn't have time to be a mother as she was too busy trying to be the perfect wife, while his father didn't have time for his family as he was too busy frolicking with women half his age. Marcus vowed as an adult he would never allow love to make him weak like his mother or become as selfish as his father. He would live life on his terms without having to worry about someone else's feelings. He only took men to bed that were in it for a good time and understood that "one and done" was the way that Marcus rolled.

Growing up in a home where he was nothing but an afterthought, an unwanted child, he'd make certain that as an adult he'd always be his own first priority.


Marcus's entire childhood had been spent attempting to please people who honestly didn't care; he could've stood on his head and recited the alphabet backward without any notice from his father and an indifferent shrug from his mother. That apathy had shaped him into the man he'd become. Ruthless, cold and self-indulgent.


Marcus kept that part of himself completely closed off....even from his best friends. He didn't want or need anyone's pity or sympathy. Until Tyler. Something about Tyler's resolve and pride reached out to Marcus. Tyler was selfless, yet stubborn. Giving and determined. Loving, yet distrustful. And Marcus loved the challenge of breaking down the man's walls....what he didn't know was he'd be demolishing his own as well.

Marcus sensed an iron gate clanging shut, locking Tyler away well behind unbreachable bars. Marcus knew all about those iron gates. He lived in a fucking compound.


They both hid from the world in different ways: Marcus with his flash and sarcastic wit, trading sex for companionship, while Tyler pushed people away, allowing mistrust and false pride to control his life, refusing genuine offers of friendship and goodwill.


In Felice Stevens' sweet and sexy way, these men found common ground. Little by little they opened up to each other and found a greater sense of self....and a well of strength to draw from. They discovered that trust, love and a true partnership makes you feel like you can conquer the world and face any obstacle in your way...it does not make you weak, needy or fully dependent on someone else. It makes you a team.

Now, I have to be honest and say that there were two reasons why I couldn't rate this one higher (which pains me because I really, really liked this book - - it's up there as one of my Felice Stevens favorites).

(1) A big part of Tyler's character is the fact that he's a dancer, yet I didn't have much connection to that part of him. This part of his character development fell flat for me. I needed more to fully understand how much dance played a part in his life. What did he go through? How far did he make it before life happened? At times it felt like a throwaway trait....almost like....hmmm, I'll make Tyler a dancer, that'll be fun....instead of really developing this part of the storyline and his true passion for the art. Just merely saying that a man moves well or has fluid grace doesn't automatically make him Baryshnikov.

(2) The beginning stages of Marcus and Tyler truly getting to know each other and slowly changing their opinions of each other happens off page. We're given a few breezy sentences describing their long talks over dinner and nights spent getting to know each other but we don't see any of that. With how much friction was between them in the beginning, the transition was too quick for me. Going from heated debates and confrontations to dinners, movies and talks over wine within a chapter left me feeling unsatisfied. I wanted to see more of the transition.

But even with these issues, I still loved the story. I truly enjoyed watching these two stubborn guys fall in love and create a family. Hands down my favorite in the series.

"From the moment I met you, you turned me upside down and made me change the way I looked at the world and at myself. You showed me I could love other people without losing who I was. You were my change, the best part of me. You turned ME into a WE."
Profile Image for Amanda.
1,388 reviews328 followers
January 26, 2016
Reading a Felice Steven's book is like having my favorite mug of hot chocolate. You just knew you gonna have the sweetness and the warmth.

We have met Marcus since Beyond the Surface. He is the manwhore among the trio and totally allergic towards love and fluff. Now that both his best friends Julian and Zach all settled down with their respective partners, they keep pestering him to grow up and settle down.

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Tyler dreamed of being a broadway dancer, but life threw him a curveball and he ended up being a dancer at Marcus nightclub in order to earn enough of tips to care for his 4 year old niece, Lillie. He heard enough of his boss wild lifestyle that he automatically put up a strong barricade from all his flirtatious attempt.

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Never one to beg for scraps, Marcus is more than willing to put Tyler into the back burner and get on with someone else instead. But when Tyler was injured at his work place, Marcus surprised himself by getting all involved and protective for the man who aren't even interested in him.

Love, relationship and a little girl? We get to see how Marcus's life turned upside down before his own eyes, simply because of Tyler. For a man who once shunned love, Marcus is doing damn fine embracing his uncertain future.

I kept waiting for the moment that Marcus might screw something up. But true to Felice's nature, she is never one to torture her readers with unnecessary angst. So I appreciate the fact that we get to see Marcus growth as a responsible man without all the bullshit of hiding himself. I'm so proud of you, man.

Julian and Zach of course was having a good laugh at his expense. 'Never say never, my friend'.
Profile Image for Wendys Wycked Words.
1,581 reviews3,898 followers
March 27, 2016
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This was an oke read for me, but I wasn't wowed by it.

I've only read book 1 of this series and seeing as this is book 3, this one can be read as a stand alone. Book 1 is also were I was first introduced to Marcus and he seemed like an interesting character to me.

Marcus is the owner of a nightclub. He liked to enjoy life. He has the money and he has plenty of men. He's not looking for a relationship and seeing his two best friends being all lovy dovy with their partners makes him want to puke a little. His friends try to get him to see things differently...saying he would be happier if he found the one...Marcus doesn't believe in "the one", his parents fucked him up pretty bad. He wasn't however prepared for Tyler to storm into his life and blow all his believes away.

Tyler is working as a go-go dancer in a nightclub. His dreams of being a professional ballet dancer were pushed aside when he became the caregiver of his little 4 year old niece. Now all that's important is making enough money to provide for her. He knows all about Marcus and his ways and eventhough he is physically attracted to the man, he doesn't want to be a notch on this guys bed. So he tries to stay clear and pushes Marcus away. But when something horrible happens....Marcus is the only one willing to help him out.

Now, like I said this was an oke read, but for some reason I just couldn't feel a connection with the characters, between the characters and the storyline.

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I actually liked Marcus and the little kid, but the rest of the characters did nothing for me...well that's a lie. They pissed me off. Zach and Julian just kept trying to convince Marcus that he should look for something more, I got so tired of them pushing Marcus. The man is an adult, let him make his own damn decisions about what he wants. Also Tyler...I really didn't like him. He made up his mind about Marcus, before he even met the guy. He also kept whining about not wanting to be a kept man and that Marcus should stop spening money on him, but all the while Marcus was taking care him, when no one else would have. Maybe he should have been a little bit more gratefull instead of being a whiny bitch. I just couldn't get over, how he reacted in the beginning of the book and to me, he didn't change all that much. He just kept getting on my nerves...

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A lot of people seem to love this book, so please don't let my opinion stop you from reading this one. It could be a big old case of "it's me and not the book". I'm going to give this book 3 stars, because I actually liked Marcus and the little kid was sweet. The steam wasn't bad either ;)
Profile Image for Carol.
2,912 reviews113 followers
August 2, 2023
I loved this book and the characters. Of course, I have loved almost all of Felice Stevens books:) It can also be read as a standalone. We learn right off that...

"Love is inescapable, indefinable, and sometimes ill-advised. It takes you by the throat and shakes you until your brain rattles, yet just as gently, cradles you in its arms."
So begins the story of Marcus and Tyler. Marcus owns a nightclub...Tyler is its newest dancer. Sparks ignite between them right away... but not all of them are the "good " kind. Marcus is determined to not ever get involved with ANYONE EVER AGAIN and certainly NOT one of his dancers. So why is he is so drawn to Tyler? Tyler felt that draw but was determined to NEVER be just another notch on Marcus’s or any other man's, bedpost, so he fights to resists him at every turn. Tyler is struggling to accept that dancing in this or any club is his new reality. He was professionally trained but he makes more money there in a night than he would in a month elsewhere...plus, he needs every cent of that money since his sister disappeared after leaving him her 5-year-old daughter. So, with bigger responsibilities to focus on he won’t/can't allow Marcus to be a distraction.

"When everyone in your life has always failed you, it made it almost impossible to believe a person would give you their heart, expecting nothing but to be loved in return."
Marcus can’t understand why Tyler keeps ignoring him and turning him down. They have undeniable chemistry, yet he continually gives him a cold shoulder and becomes angrier with every flirt that Marcus makes. Neither Tyler or Marcus's friends can believe that Marcus seriously likes Tyler, so they decide to offer him some help and advice. Ahhh... "The best laid plans of mice and men"! ...but...

"When you live with someone and love them, they creep into your blood and soul, leaving irrevocable imprints on your heart."
Marcus eventually learns that it's more Tyler’s added responsibility that's the problem and not so much Marcus himself. Unforeseen circumstances do finally allow Tyler to see the real Marcus with all his vulnerabilities There are so many highs and lows for Marcus and Tyler throughout the book, but they learn to lean on each other and support each other any way they can... plus Marcus finds that his heart also held tightly by a little girl that has had more than enough heartbreak in her young life. An awesome book and series.
Profile Image for Lelyana's Reviews.
3,292 reviews388 followers
November 5, 2017
~ 5 amazing dancing stars ! ~



"Love was inescapable, indefinable, and sometimes ill-advised. It took you by the throat and shook you until your brain rattled, yet just as gently, cradled you in its loving arms."


Loved this book so hard ! Loved Marcus and Tyler even more!
And they're become my new favorite couple along with my Micah and Josh.
Another winner from Felice Stevens !

Once upon a time, I was stumble to a new book from a new author in MM. Book called Rescued . It was a good book and after that, I stalked the author's every new book. None of her book I haven't read. I read all of Felice's stories, because I loved all of her MCs.
Some people might now know her, yet. But I believe I have a good taste in books, so, it's your lost if you haven't read Felice's books.
(I'm trying not to sound like an ass-licker here, but seriously, if Felice keeping up with her writing style I love, I'll follow her everywhere). Enough.
Now about the book.

Right from the start with Julian and Nick's book, I was already half in love with that slutty Marcus. Hell, I never like a slutty heroes before, but Marcus dug my curiosity and I keep wondering who can tame him in the future.
Funny how faith drive us. We're looking everywhere to our soulmates, and never realised that he's right there close to us. Like Marcus when he found Tyler, a new dancer in his new club.
But Tyler is not an easy target, he's not even Marcus's one night only type.
First encounter was a fist (yeah, seemed like Marcus has a thing with a little jab on his jaw). Tyler got him right there.
"“You may be my boss and pay me , but that’s as far as it goes. I don’t have to like you, or put up with your crap like everyone else here does.”

Curiosity kill a cat. Nah, not for Marcus, he's determined like that. He wanted Tyler and he MUST have Tyler. But what's Tyler told him?
"“I don’t need your help, and no, we won’t get to know each other better. You’re my boss, and you pay me to work for you. That doesn’t include fucking me.”"

Ouch !

Marcus never wanted to fall in love. He didn't need it. As a child, he's lack of that. And he became a bitter man.
"“I didn’t want trips to places that weren’t for children or toys that were too expensive to play with. I wanted parents who wanted me.”"

"He didn’t know how to love anyone, not like his friends loved their partners. He’d seen Julian give himself to Nick and Zach to Sam so completely, and it scared the shit out of him to lose that control, to put someone else first."

And it's so hard for him to admit that he wanted Tyler. He didn't understand why.
"“Why are you here?”
“I have no fucking clue, but I have to find out.”
“Find out what?”
“I don’t know.”“Why you let other men touch and kiss you, but me you push away.” “Why it matters to me.”"

I'm glad Tyler didn't give up too soon for Marcus's undeniable charm, Marcus had to work hard for that, including prolonged his three months bet of celibacy to eight long months of no sex.
But it pays, because Tyler wanted him as much as he wanted Tyler. And Tyler make sure that 'everybody' knows about that!
>
"“I’m going to make certain that when you leave here tonight, there will be no doubt in anyone’s mind who you belong with from now on.”

As long as I know, there's only two dances that I found erotic AF. One, from my latest Lori Witt's book, and this one. Tyler is one hell of a hot dancer!

And there are also my other guys from the other series, my Micah and Josh !
Not just as cameo, they're helping Tyler and Marcus solved some of their life problems as well ! <3
And I I love how a man of no relationship, no need family like Marcus, falls head over heels over a little girl named Lillie. Aww !
Seriously, I don't care about Marcus's past hurts with his parents, as long as Tyler can make him whole.
"“I don’t want to leave because I need you.” He pressed a clumsy kiss to the corner of Marcus’s mouth. “I love you.” Marcus stilled and held Tyler a bit closer. “Do you know that’s the first time anyone’s ever said that to me?”"

IMHO, Felice is getting better and better with her writing. And I haven't let down even once.
Loved all the boys, and I'm sure there are many more to come . Bring it on Felice !

~ ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Lelyana from Reading Addict Mom's Blog

Buy link http://amzn.to/1S7CfDg
Profile Image for d..
54 reviews
July 12, 2018
I’m honestly surprised this book has such a high rating... when will people understand that no means no and repeatedly forcing yourself into someone’s space & making decisions for another person without their permission (and, in fact, with their direct objection) is not cool or acceptable at all!!!
Profile Image for Aisha (seetheworldwithbooks).
458 reviews91 followers
November 19, 2016
Need almost a week to finish this #wipe sweat. Not this book's fault though, but mine. Since i wanted to read light story but instead i picked it and ended up with some drama -__-
Not bad but not my favorite either. But still, iam going to check other Felice's other books xx
Profile Image for Mathilda Grace.
Author 92 books49 followers
November 1, 2017
Der letzte Band um drei Freunde ist ein würdiger Abschluss für diese Trilogie, denn auch Marcus hat eine tolle Geschichte bekommen.

Dabei ist er nun wahrlich kein Sympathieträger. Durch seine ständige Schauspielerei und das Verleugnen von sich selbst, macht er es nicht gerade einfach, ihn zu mögen. Er kann sich wunderbar selbst belügen und das bekommt auch Tyler schmerzhaft zu spüren, der für solche Spielerchen nun wahrlich keinen Nerv hat, denn er muss Geld verdienen, um sich und seine kleine Nichte durchzubringen. Und auch wenn er Marcus anziehend findet, will er sich nicht mit einem Gigolo einlassen, dem es nur um die nächste Kerbe im Bettpfosten geht.

Beide haben ihre Vorurteile dem anderen gegenüber und das ist nicht verwunderlich, da auch Tyler alles versucht, um eine Maske aufrecht zu erhalten.

Gott sei Dank hat Marcus Freunde, die ihn wieder und wieder in Tylers Richtung stoßen und ihm vor allem Denkanstöße geben, die er dringend braucht, um hinter Tylers Fassade zu blicken und vor allem, um zu erkennen, dass er kurz davor steht, den größten Fehler seines Lebens zu machen.

Eine tolle Geschichte, die von mir volle Punkzahl und eine dicke Leseempfehlung erhält.
Profile Image for Debra.
2,113 reviews258 followers
January 28, 2016
Review originally posted at Sinfully.

Marcus is the last single man in his group of friends and is happy to stay that way. He’s been there supporting them throughout their ups and downs and now he feels them trying to push him to change his ways and find someone just like they have. Deep down Marcus is sad and lonely, but he won’t admit to himself and certainly won’t concede that his friends are right.

Horrible parenting doesn’t come close to describing Marcus’ upbringing. Marcus’ cold, homophobic father is an awful, self-centered man and his mother is living in a fantasy world that revolves around making his cheating father happy, something she has pushed Marcus aside to do for his entire life. The fact that even his own parents never loved or wanted him has cemented the idea that no one else will put him first, so he’s got to do it for himself. He is happy to have his pick of a never ending supply of willing men approach him each night at his club. Giving all of himself to one person so completely, putting them before himself, like both Julian and Zach had done with Nick and Sam, is not something Marcus ever plans to do.

Tyler is a new dancer at Sparks and isn’t going to play Marcus’ games. He knows the man’s reputation and has always made it a point, to the detriment of his dreams, not to trade sex for advancement of his career. Although he’s heard about Marcus being very good to his staff and friends, Tyler can’t see beyond the cavalier manwhore. Not that he has any career aspirations left at the moment, doing what his responsibilities require him to do and working for tips as a go-go dancer. Tyler’s had a tough time of things and the last thing Tyler wants is to be anyone’s charity case or Marcus’ latest conquest. Unfortunately for Tyler, Marcus seems to enjoy the challenge he presents and Marcus isn’t going to let him go so easily, even when it turns out that getting close to Tyler comes with more than Marcus ever bargained for.

Surprisingly, it took me a while to warm up to Tyler. He did not make a good first impression and I was actually thinking he was lucky Marcus didn’t fire him on more than one occasion. Whether that was due to Marcus knowing that he comes on strong, Tyler being beautiful and talented or just Marcus being a good guy underneath the lecherous playboy exterior, he puts up with a lot from Tyler as a new employee. They have great chemistry from the get-go, both when they are butting heads and during the slow build to their relationship. Things really heat up though when the relationship gets physical and it turns out the Tyler also has a bossy, toppy side to him.

There isn’t just the two men fighting their attraction to each other, they are also fighting the ingrained voices in their heads that tell them that they are not worthy or that love, in general is a bad idea. It takes a while but Tyler manages to unearth a vulnerable side of Marcus that even his closest friends haven’t seen and Marcus manages to get Tyler to lean on him for support. There were a few times where I did think these two spent too much time in their heads, but overall I thought they were a great couple, with Tyler really giving Marcus a run for his money. When Marcus finally falls it’s a beautiful thing to see.

Marcus and Tyler face quite a few bumps in the road from outside sources, but it doesn’t get too angsty or dramatic and the situations only served to bring the two men closer to understanding each other. Of course the rest of the men from the series are there to support, irritate and advise them, while a few other of Felice Stevens’ beloved characters lend a hand as well. This is a fine ending to the series, but as fans of the author know, it’s probably not the last we will be seeing of any of these men!

description
Profile Image for Denise - Shh Mom's Reading®.
958 reviews396 followers
January 28, 2016
Second to None http://amzn.to/1nyDwXb is easy read standalone though it may be more fun witnessing Marcus fall hard if you have been seen him throughout the series.
And lines like this will mean so much more:
“One day you’ll meet someone who’ll set your world spinning, and you won’t know how to stop it.”

Second to None is the story of nightclub owner Marcus Feldman and Tyler Reiss a man who has recently become an employee at Marcus’ club Sparks.
The reason why Tyler is shaking his ass at Sparks, will touch your heart. You will understand why he gave up his dream for a paycheck, well for tips, lots of tips, thrown at him, pushed down his shorts.

Tyler and Marcus have engaging banter from the moment they meet.
“You can’t take over my life, Marcus; you don’t own me.” “Trust me, when I do own you, you’re going to know it.”

The plot of this one brings new characters to love. Lillie brought so much to this story… yes I know a female in a gay romance no it’s not menage trust me it works!

Tyler doesn’t put up with Marcus’ crap and I love that.. as they two grow closer I loved them together even more
“I don’t belong there. Those are your friends, the people you’re closest with.” “I had my dick inside you twice last night, Tyler. How much closer could we get?”
…………………“Come on; you have to help me out here. They’re all coupled up, and the last thing I want is to listen to them be all disgustingly loving and happy.”
An amused glint lit Taylor’s eyes. “And you hate that, huh?” “Bet that sweet ass of yours I do.”

As this story develops the plot layers with characters from Ms Stevens prior books. I adored the use of Micah from Memories of the Heart http://amzn.to/1KFJs5A (if you haven’t read this one I highly recommend it). Ms Stevens weaves in his doctor and his family to create added depth to this story.

The story of how Marcus and Tyler become a family warmed my heart; it was hot, emotional and had me knowing these men were better off for having found each other.

Ms Stevens thank you so much for this wonderful series, I loved witnessing these men fall in love and grow their families!
Profile Image for Sali .
1,321 reviews8 followers
March 7, 2019
Dnf 22% I wanted to read this book for a while. Single dad/care taker is a trope I enjoy.
But, I hate Marcus. Workplace harassment exist and should be acknowledged as it is. Marcus, the boss touch his employee, Tyler, against his will, enter the changing room without, at least, knocking because he's the boss, kiss his employee during work time because he's feeling like it, while said employee doesn't know, show up a his place because again he feels like it.. It's sexual harassment in the works place. There is a power imbalance.
It's disgusting that's it's written as sweet or romantic.
I can get behind books with this setting, I have read and loved them but, at least, it was acknowledge, the boss/employee situation.. Here, some of Marcus's friend, said so, Marcus finally realized that yeah, it's not okey and go to his employee appartement without being invite. Why don't you corner him, huh?!? Marcus is abusive whether he realise it or not.
Profile Image for Marianne Boutet.
1,635 reviews6 followers
August 3, 2019
Extra points given to Lillie, for being the lovely little girl who gave the big guys something special to bond over.
Profile Image for Jaime.
1,734 reviews307 followers
January 27, 2016
"Love, Marcus decided, seeing Tyler pressed between two men as he danced, was for the weak. Lucky for him, he was strong and focused."

This is Marcus' book, finally we get to see inside the head of the infamous playboy of our three friends who make up The Breakfast Club! I have been waiting for this story because I knew that when Marcus met his match the boy was going to fall hard! Try as he might, it happened before he even realized what happened. Felice Stevens created the perfect counterpart to Marcus, Tyler - he is strong willed, not afraid to do anything to survive, compassionate, and he is not about to be some rich guys next trick! Tyler is working at Marcus' club as a male go-go dancer to strum up business and while he flirts with the customers it's the owner of the club who has him in his sights! From almost the first day, Tyler has Marcus wrapped around his finger. Once Marcus starts developing feelings (even if he doesn't recognize them) he goes into total Papa bear mode wanting to protect and care for Tyler.
“You can’t take over my life, Marcus; you don’t own me.” “Trust me, when I do own you, you’re going to know it.” You see, Tyler has some secrets of his own and he is very protective of these secrets. Marcus soon finds out that Tyler isn't such an easy man to persuade to see things his way.

Meanwhile, life goes on all around Marcus and his friends can't believe what they are witnessing. Could the Marcus Feldman be falling in love? Would he admit it, if asked? Probably not..so Julian gently nudges him to recognize his feelings.
“One day you’ll meet someone who’ll set your world spinning, and you won’t know how to stop it.” When Julian tells Marcus this, and not for the first time, Marcus blows him off stating that he won't ever fall in love and his world is just fine how it is. Tyler on the other hand doesn't want to be someone's one night stand he has too much riding on the line and he refuses to be that guy. When Tyler reveals his secrets to Marcus, it surprises both Marcus and Tyler that Marcus doesn't run...this may be what starts to soften Tyler's heart toward Marcus. That and the insane sexual tension developing between them.

I loved this book, the back and forth between Marcus and Tyler and the underlying chemistry before they actually hooked up was amazing, then add in the between the sheets chemistry and we have an explosive book!! Felice Stevens definitely ended this series with a huge bang and now I will have a book hangover and miss my Breakfast Club men!! I have faith though that Felice will find a way to sprinkle them in the backdrop of an upcoming book just as we got to see characters from other books in this one - all I can hope for is that the next book comes soon!!

5+ Stars to Second to None and 5 stars to the entire series!! A highly recommended read!!




*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
and Gay Book Reviews
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Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,385 reviews202 followers
October 7, 2018


Marcus didn't believe in love or relationships. He didn't need them or want them. After all, why bother with a relationship with someone who wouldn't put him first, the way his parents had his whole life? He was the manwhore in his circle of friends, and it had always served him well. Until it didn't. Until a gorgeous dancer at his club brought Marcus to his knees. All his arrogance and cockiness had not prepared him for the feelings he'd develop for Tyler and an adorable little girl.



Tyler had big dreams - dreams that involved dancing professionally on Broadway. But when his young niece, Lillie, is placed in his care when his sister disappears, Tyler did what family does, and sacrificed his dream for his niece. Dancing at Marcus' club is just a way for him to make big tips, the tips he needs to care for Lillie. Tyler's supremely proud, and stubborn, and doesn't like to ask for, or accept, help, but when Marcus offers, Tyler knows he needs to accept for his niece's sake. Accepting more might be off the table, though. Can these two closed off men allow themselves to fall in love, but not just fall, allow themselves to trust and rely on each other?



This is the second MM romance of Felice Stevens' that I've read, and I like it almost as much as the first one I read, James—Uncontrollable. I loved seeing Marcus open himself up to love and Tyler open himself up to accepting help. Their chemistry is smokin' hot and Lillie is one adorable little girl. She's a little too adult for her actual age, but she's a great addition to the male dominated cast of characters. I haven't read any of the other stories in this series, but it was easy to see that the friends in Marcus' circle are tight. I can't wait to go back and read their stories, too.



Considering how much I've enjoyed both the stories of Felice Stevens' that I've inhaled, I have decided I'm a fan for life, and am looking forward to a lot more from her.



ARC via Booksprout for an honest review.

Full review posted on Live Through Books Blog.
Profile Image for Siobhan.
4,678 reviews588 followers
June 1, 2019
Second to None is the third book in The Breakfast Club series, and Felice Stevens once again had me hooked. Although I had some issues with this book, for the most part I enjoyed it. Thus, even though it’s not quite a full four-star rating, I rounded up my rating with this one.

I’m going to be honest and say I had mixed feelings towards Marcus prior to starting this book. I was curious about his story, but I did not much care for him as a character. He provided some humour in the two prior books, but humour is not enough to have me loving a character. Nevertheless, the pesky curiosity remained.

Did Marcus win me over in Second to None? Mostly, yes. I came to like him a lot more, but I never came to love him in the way I loved the characters in the prior books. I had too many issues with his behaviour early in the book to completely love him, but he grew on me throughout. In fact, Tyler was the character I favoured in this story. It was Tyler’s story I wanted more of, I wanted to see how the details of his life came together.

There is no doubt Second to None is an addictive story, containing the usual Felice Stevens elements, it’s just one that requires you to accept more of the unbelievable than you usually would with a Felice Stevens read. Namely, the behaviour of a four-year-old. I have never met a four-year-old that acted the way the one in this story did, especially with what had happened. If you’re able to overlook that, though, the story is addictive.

Overall, Second to None was a great addition to the series. It’s not my favourite The Breakfast Club read, but it was a story that has me hooked and willing to read the short stories that follow.
Profile Image for Lisa Cullinan.
571 reviews27 followers
March 10, 2016
Five Lillie-bugs for Marcus & Tyler

I couldn't wait for Marcus's story seeing as he's the man-slut of the bunch. Yet, I always felt that there was more to him than just his lascivious reputation.
After watching his two best friends find love and happiness, and as much as he was happy for them, Marcus vowed that he'd never let that happen to him; monogamy and relationships? No way. Since he was the owner of Sparks, one of NYC's hottest clubs, he had no problem finding the next warm body waiting to indulge him.
As much as Marcus exuded arrogance, confidence, and overbearance, he found himself floundering in unchartered waters as he tried to pursue Tyler, the clubs newest dancer. Tyler, on the other hand, who'd been dealt a most unfortunate hand, watched his dreams of professionally dancing come to an abrupt halt. The last thing he needed or wanted, was Marcus — maybe ...

What Marcus hadn't counted on was that everything in his perfect world would never be the same again — Tyler and his little four year old niece, Lillie, had ruined everything for him. How dare they'd made him see that life wasn't all about him, that it was ok to wear sparkly nail polish and buy dolls, to put trust in someone else and not have them let you down, to make you feel that you are worthy of love and that you matter.

“I don’t want to leave because I need you.” He pressed a clumsy kiss to the corner of Marcus’s mouth. “I love you.” Marcus stilled and held Tyler a bit closer. “Do you know that’s the first time anyone’s ever said that to me?” The joking tone had vanished.

Right there, I wanted to die. Learning Marcus's story explained everything. Coming to terms with his painful past was almost as profound as watching him turn from a "me" to a "we" with so much desire to embrace "their" future.

Tyler and Marcus were made for each other. They both were so deserving of a HEA. I love how the rest of the breakfast club are involved in each other's lives and only want the best for one another. Felice Stevens knocked this one right outta center field. Her writing is always filled with so much passion, characters that are sexy and lovable, impeccable grammar, and fabulous attention to detail — all of which made this a five, Lillie-bug star, read for me.
Profile Image for Sadonna.
2,639 reviews46 followers
February 17, 2016
I really liked this one. Marcus and blindsided by Tyler - lust at first sight. But then he gets to know him a little more and he wants to protect him. Whaaaaa? Where is that selfish, self-indulgent, live in the moment Marcus??? Hahaha. Tyler is guarded and tired. He's taken on way more responsibility than the thought he'd have to, but he can't do anything else.

These two proud, guarded men somehow manage to break through each other's barriers - much to the amusement of Marcus's friends :) It's certainly not all easy sailing but it's nice to watch the cracks in the facade and then see the true Marcus come out to play.

Very enjoyable and satisfying read.
Profile Image for Shannon.
2,163 reviews40 followers
August 7, 2016
I was so excited to finally read Marcus' story. And I loved it! Tyler was just the kind of guy Marcus needed and the beginning of their relationship was all kinds of fun. Watching Marcus get close to Lillie made me a very happy camper. She was just the sweetest. I love that all the other couples played such a huge part of this book because I've missed them a bit. Weird, I know. These 2 really had to work for their relationship and I loved taking the journey with them.
Profile Image for Len Evans Jr.
1,473 reviews219 followers
February 9, 2017
Wow... with what I knew about Marcus from the previous books I knew that his own story would be a wild ride and I was not disappointed. I knew that for Marcus to find love it would take an exceptional man; but who knew a little girl would help melt his heart as well. This story is full of passion, heartache and most of all LOVE!
Profile Image for Elithanathile.
1,862 reviews
August 19, 2017
Once again, just okay for me :-/!! This is NOT a negative rating, I just didn't like it enough to, well, LIKE it :-/!!
Profile Image for Pati.
869 reviews
April 25, 2016
This is another of those books that is difficult for me to rate and review. On one hand I want to give it a 2 star rating due to many reasons that I will get to in a minute. However, I feel compelled to give it 3 stars because of my love for Marcus, Tyler, Zach, Julian, Sam and Nick.

Writing a good book is never a one person job, authors need decent editors to help shed light on all of the little inconsistencies that keep a story from being great.

Once again I am forced to say in a review that I know that Ms. Stevens has the capability to touch my heart. However, despite the many issues that normally would have me bawling like a baby..... childhood neglect, childhood poverty, deaths of family members.... I remained not only completely dry eyed but irritated at the editor for not pointing out those tweaks that were needed to make the issues believable and to make the characters well round three dimensional characters.

Sadly, Lily remained a two dimensional, plotted out, character.... She certainly did not act like a real 4 year old. Especially one who'd been abandoned! Despite all of the points from that diagram being covered none of it touched my emotions.

For example: A young child who's been abandoned is going to be freaked out when her only parental figure doesn't return from work and is then brought by her babysitter to someone else's home! Yet the next morning when the men return from the hospital (Uncle all bruised up) we're only told that she runs up to him crying and asks one question, which isn't really answered, no hugs given, no reassurances given, then brushed aside back into the shadows.

*sigh*sigh*sigh*SMH* No, no,no!

If you're going to have a child be a good part of a book then you actually need to make them real!! They don't just play quietly in their room like that! Too unbelievably unreal!

Furthermore many things just get left after being told minimal information....

The old lady, neighbor/babysitter who supposedly cared for Lily & Tyler. She just disappears to Florida?! Really?!

A decent editor should have pointed out that even a short conversation with the woman before she left that morning and maybe a phone call or two later in the story would have taken her from being a plotted out device to a believable human being.

.... No explanation on how someone who grew up in abject poverty somehow was a professionally trained dancer.

.... No mention of what ever happened to Tyler & Amber's mom. Is the woman alive? Dead? Abducted by aliens?

.....what about the groceries they ordered? Never mentioned again.

.... And making sure that we know the meds make Tyler sleep (pass out is how it looked to me) yet Marcus dismisses the babysitter and goes off to work leaving a 4 year old alone with him?!

.....And anyone would be thirsty after sleeping all day!! Yet upon finally waking up Tyler declines even a drink of water?

....and daycare? How? Not only do good ones have waiting lists but we were already told earlier about that pesky little problem of legality.... *sigh*

... and the mysterious new babysitter that we never actually see. *sigh* Who found her and how? Who hired her?

.... the mention of bullying and the preschools ridiculous, bigoted attitude? Give me a break, the two victims of the bullying are the children of a doctor and a lawyer!Never any mention of them even being aware of the situation. Yet, this also was just mentioned as an obvious plot device.

.... a couple of timeline issues....

One that makes it sound as though Tyler's only had her weeks instead of the two years that we've been told!

....Brunch+15 minutes+one hour= late afternoon, getting dark? Hmmmm.... These are certainly some short days. Maybe an alternate planet where the day isn't 24 hours?

....and finally he's 33 and he tells the judge he's been in NY for 5 years. Rally?! I honestly had assumed that he was born and raised in NY. But even if not I would've expected since professional dancing was his dream that he'd have gone to the Big Apple before he was 28 years old.

These are just some of the specific examples of why I feel that Ms. Steven's editors failed her and ultimately failed us, the readers who spend our hard earned money on these books.

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Marcia.
480 reviews5 followers
January 28, 2016
Second to None is the final book in the Breakfast Club series and it features Marcus Feldman and Tyler Reiss. I have to say that I am sad to see this series end. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know these guys. They have taken me on a fantastic ride, one I have enjoyed immensely. If you have read the prior books in the series, which you most definitely should, then you know that Marcus is the gorgeous, sexy, playboy, alpha male, night club owner, who does not believe in love at all, even though he has watched his two best friends fall in love with the loves of their lives. However, unbeknownst to the reader as well as Marcus' friends, Marcus has his reasons for not believing in love, and those reasons will strike your heart in its deepest places. And yet, this is where Tyler enters the picture. Tyler, a beautiful, "bendy" dancer, who works at Marcus' club, brings just the challenge to Marcus' life that he has been missing and turns his world on its head. Tyler is not who Marcus thinks he is and Marcus is definitely not the person who Tyler believes him to be. However, my money is on Marcus, always, because once Marcus sets his mind to getting something that he wants...he always wins!!!

I have to say that I absolutely loved Second to None, and that it is by far, the best of the Breakfast Club series. Not only is Marcus' story extremely touching and emotional, but so is Tyler's. I was absolutely amazed by all of the trials and tribulations that these two men had gone through, but yet, they still came out on top, not completely whole, but hey, that is what his other half is for. And Marcus is definitely Tyler's other half, just like Tyler is Marcus'. They brought out the best in each other. Although I must admit to wanting to shake Tyler a bit...ok...a whole lot...because he was one of the most stubborn men I have ever come across, and I thought Marcus was stubborn!! Umm...no, Tyler wins hands down. He just would not let his way of seeing Marcus or his outlook on things go, even when it was being shown to him that what he thought or believed was not correct, especially when it came to Marcus.

Felice Stevens has definitely given her readers yet another story that will touch their hearts and have them wishing for more. So, yes, I highly recommend this absolutely beautiful story of love that develops over time and without either party being aware of the fact that they are falling head over heels. Oh, and yeah, the guys, Nick, Julian, Zach and Sam, are all back, and there also is the introduction of one of the sweetest little persons ever to set foot on the pages of a book. Go grab your copy as soon as this one releases, because you won't regret it. Bravo, Felice Stevens on another job well done.

ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.



Profile Image for Chris Kottner-Kirschner.
1,067 reviews14 followers
January 29, 2016
Marcus Feldman ist erfolgreich, vermögend, sieht gut aus. Und er führt ein einsames, leeres Leben. Eine Handvoll Freunde wie Julian und Zach sind ihm wichtig, für seine Angestellten trägt er Sorge. Doch mit seinen Eltern verbindet ihn nichts. Beziehungen geht er aus dem Weg und tiefere Gefühle verbietet er sich selbst. Während seines Zölibats (verlorene Wette), trifft er auf Tyler. Dieser ist ein neuer Tänzer in Marcus' Club und einfach nur faszinierend.

Vielleicht auch, weil Tyler Marcus widerstehen kann und sehr spröde auf seine typischen Attitüden reagiert. Zwar findet Tyler seinen Boss sexy, doch Tyler kennt alle Geschichten über den gefühllosen Marcus, der Menschen nur für sein eigenes Wohlbefinden benutzt. Und Tyler hat wirklich andere Probleme als sein nichtexistentes Sexleben. Er kümmert sich um seine kleine Nichte, die von ihrer Mutter einfach bei ihm abgeladen und verlassen wurde.

Als Tyler jedoch Opfer eines Überfalls wird und Hilfe braucht, springt Marcus ein. Tyler muss lernen seinen Stolz zu überwinden und Hilfe auch zuzulassen. Schwierig, aber alternativlos. Zu seiner grenzenlosen Überraschung entdeckt er mit der Zeit einen völlig anderen Marcus, der sich einfach hinter der kalten und emotionslosen Fassade verborgen hat.

Second to None ist nun also der Abschlussband des Breakfastclubs. Bei diesem Buch habe ich meine Erwartungen etwas zurück genommen, da mich der vorletzte Teil (Sam und Zach) nicht ganz überzeugen konnte. Doch bei der Geschichte um Tyler und Marcus hat die Autorin wieder ihr Können ausgespielt. Marcus ist wie man ihn schon aus den ersten Teilen kennt und er ist sehr, sehr überzeugend und glaubwürdig. Mit Tyler bekommt er aber einen Kerl an die Seite gestellt, der es ihm nicht leicht macht. Und Marcus lernt, dass auch ihm Grenzen gesetzt werden.

Tylers Sorge und Liebe für seine kleine Nichte Lillie ist anrührend zu lesen und das spricht absolut für ihn. Sein anfängliches divenhaftes Verhalten kann entschuldigt werden, denn auch Tyler lernt dazu und verändert sich im Lauf der Geschichte. So wie auch Marc, der lernt dass Gefühle keine Schwäche sind. Und dass auch er Glück verdient hat. Das lieblose Verhalten seiner Eltern wird immer wieder thematisiert und so versteht man auch, wieso Marcus eben so geworden ist wie er sich eben zeigt.

Dieser Teil gefiel mir wirklich ausnehmend gut und würde meinen, dass es auch die beste Geschichte dieser Reihe ist. Nett zu lesen ist auch die Bekanntschaft von Marcus mit Micah und Josh aus einem anderen Buch von Felice Stevens. Für Marcus und Tyler gibt es von mir eine uneingeschränkte Leseempfehlung.
Profile Image for Zane Kage.
2,921 reviews28 followers
February 27, 2016
Second to None is the third book in Felice Stevens’ Breakfast Club series. If you’re new to this series, one-click “Beyond the Surface” and “Betting on Forever” to meet Julian and Nick, and Zach and Sam. You’ll LOVE them. And then you’ll be ready… for Marcus.

Playboy Marcus, my Marcus. Yes, unapologetic slut (I do love those) Marcus knocked me off my feet. I knew he had a heart of gold, and I knew, just knew when it was his turn to find love. He would fall hardest of all. And did he ever, meeting his match in Tyler.

A delightful surprise, the dancer gave as good as he got, made Marcus do some dancing of his own. There was no loving and leaving Tyler or his pint-sized secret weapon: his niece. Sweet with adorable little girl moments, Lillie helped Marcus to open up and love.

Marcus and Tyler struggled inwardly and with each other, battling life’s twists and turns.
Facing their fears together, they found themselves and their HEA. Added bonus: more of Marcus’s best friends and former MCs Nick/Julian and Zach/Sam, and a crossover with Micah (I love him; why doesn’t everyone else?) and Josh from the Memories series.

All of Felice’s books are sweet and sexy, but this one was more intense. The sexy scenes were crazy hot, and at the same time, so loving – everything I wanted them to be and then some. I love these two – great characters, wonderful writing, and what a story!

I am a diehard Felice fan. I crave that guaranteed HEA with those GOD-I-GOTTA-HAVE-THEM-SHMOOPY moments. This author is not afraid to have her guys speak their feelings, show their softer side. And these very same oh-so-sweet men will steam the hell out of a room when they rip each other’s clothes off. Especially Marcus and Tyler – the intensity in both the love and sex – Ladies and Gents, this is Felice Stevens at her best.

I am sad for the series’ end (Julian, Zach and Marcus have all found love), though that is eased by the Zach and Sam novella just weeks away. After that? We’ll see what the lovely Ms. Stevens conjures up next. I know neither I nor the Fiercest of Felice’s fans can wait!!!

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Profile Image for Diverse.
1,178 reviews51 followers
January 28, 2016
Each book I read by Felice Stevens is better than the last! So, it’s no wonder why I think Second to None is her best book yet. She has an amazing ability to make you feel her words! Each character clings to your heart like a tattoo! I’ve been waiting for Marcus’s story since book one. The violet eyed playboy had my undivided attention. And, as predicted, he tore me apart. Marcus IS the meaning, “Money can’t buy you everything.” The one thing he NEEDS in his life. The one thing he realizes he wants, cannot be bought. Enter Tyler. Gorgeous, smart, graceful Tyler. From the outside he just looks like another go go dancer. But then he moves and you realize, wow there’s a story there. He’s far too talented to be dancing at Sparks! And there is indeed a story that’s so brilliant. I couldn’t put this book down. Felice’s promise of a happy ending is a guarantee in all her books. But, she won’t make it easy on you! You’ll cry and laugh and fan yourself quite a bit.
I’d love for this book to have gone on forever. I’d love this series, like all her series, to never end! So, I’m not going to say this is the end of The Breakfast Club because I see some characters that Felice could have a lot of fun with and I’m curious.
I do have to say, it was a HUGE treat to see some surprise characters pop up in this book and Felice fans will squee just as I did!
You’ll enjoy this book. You’ll be washed away by the emotion and then, when it’s over, you’ll want to do it all over again.
Bravo, Felice, for yet another magnificent book, for yet another amazing memory.
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