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Dare #1-3

Dare Series Collection

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Are you ready to swim with the sharks?

I DARE YOU
What do you do when the devil has you in his sights?
You show him that you can play his game.
Austin Lowes is new to town. She's running from a mom who hates her to her dad who cares nothing about her. Only a few months and she will be free, or at least, that's what she hopes ... until she meets him.
Cole Reynolds is the devil disguised as a man. He wants her fear, he wants her blood, and he wants her soul.
Just a little game, he says, I dare you.
Will Austin survive him, or will she lose herself and the game?
Secrets are revealed and justice will be served, but at what cost?
Who survives and who doesn't?

I PROMISE YOU
It was supposed to be a game.
I Dare You.
We bought her in 'cause I wanted to play with her.
Destroy her.
But plans change and she got caught in the cross fire.
Then I did something far worse. I fell in love with her, but she doesn't know I still have secrets.
Ones that could rip us all apart.
We're sharks.
Raised to hunt and kill.
We take what we want without asking.
We've never needed permission before, so I'm not about to start now.
You think you know everything, but we're about to do what we do best and prove you wrong- I Promise You!

IF YOU DARE
The game was over. The dares were getting old, and the secrets were piling up faster than the bodies.
But someone had other plans. They wanted to play a new game.
Becky Holt was the love of his life until he found out what she was hiding. Now he wants to seek his revenge in the most daring way.
Deke Biggs has always been a shark. He's not afraid to kill, and he's about to become her worst nightmare.
But there's a new player, and she plans on taking everything, no matter what the cost.
Try to beat him- If You Dare!
Who will win and who will lose?

Due to mature content and themes this series is recommended for readers aged eighteen and over. The Dare Series Collection has over 400K words and includes exclusive bonus content.

911 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 11, 2020

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About the author

Shantel Tessier

64 books18k followers
Shantel is a USA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author. She lives in Oklahoma with her high school sweetheart, who is a wonderful, supportive husband and their two daughters. She loves to spend time cuddled up on the couch with a good book. Although she has a passion to write, her family is most important to her.

Email her at: Shanteltessierassistant@gmail.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 232 reviews
Profile Image for Meredith Wilson.
383 reviews39 followers
December 11, 2020
I Dare You Review

Holy. Freaking. Hell! I don't even know where to start. This book was absolutely riveting! It was intense and suspenseful and gripping. It was full of twists and turns that you won't see coming. Get ready to lose a day because you won't be able to put this book down. Austin and Cole were amazing together! The chemistry and push & pull between them was fiery hot. Their story was completely addicting and I just could not get enough.

When Austin Lowes moves to town, she finds herself surrounded by a group of dangerous men. They live life on the edge and she is immediately drawn into their web of daring and deadly games. As the secrets and lies are uncovered and revealed, lines become blurred and Austin and Cole grow closer. His need for blood and vengeance is strong, but will his love for her prevail?

Readers, you need this book in your life! There's mystery and heat and Cole will absolutely dominate your racing heart. This is a dangerously delicious dark romance, which you will not want to miss. So please do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of this masterpiece.

I Promise You Review

Oh. My. Gawd! This book was absolutely fantastic! It's not real often that I finish a book in one day, but I Promise You was like kindle crack and I just could not put it down. This one starts off with a bang, picking up right where I Dare You left off. And yes, you will need to read that one first. Otherwise you will be lost, wondering what the hell is going on in this crazy shark world.

I Promise You was pure dark romance goodness! It's dark, edgy, intense and suspenseful. And just when you think you have things figured out, the author throws out a curve ball. The twists and turns are plentiful, starting from the very beginning. It's told from three point of views; Cole, Deke and Bennett. You get a glimpse as to what goes on in their heads and the secrets that they have locked away. I absolutely loved the whole GWS crew and watching as the story further unfolded. Secrets are revealed. Lies and truths are uncovered. Relationships and friendships are tested. Who will be left standing at the end?

I PROMISE YOU, you do not want to miss out on this one! These delicious GWS's are just as dark and deadly as before. You will be taken for one hell of an insane ride. I could not turn the pages fast enough as I devoured each and every word. If you don't mind being put through the ringer, then be sure and snatch this one up. It is fan-f*cking-tastic! ♥

If You Dare Review

OH. MY. GAWD! I wish I could give this series ALL. OF. THE. STARS! If You Dare is intense, gripping, sexy and absolutely AMAZING! I simply can not get enough of these sharks, their drama and the games that they play. I didn't think it was possible, but this story was even better than the last. It was angsty and suspenseful with twists and turns around every corner. It will definitely sink its claws into you, hooking you from the very first page.

If You Dare is a fantastic read that more than checked off all the marks for me. It was brilliantly crafted with a perfectly executed plot and well developed characters. This dangerously dark and delicious tale will have your heart racing while keeping you on the edge of your seat. You will be left shocked and surprised as secrets are revealed and lies are uncovered. Readers, you need this book (and series) in your life! Please do yourself a favor, and one-click when this baby goes live. It is an exciting ride that I can promise you won't want to miss.

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Profile Image for Keri Loves Books.
1,243 reviews192 followers
December 11, 2020
Intense heat, shocking twists and edge of your seat suspense that will leave you addicted to their depravity. It’s dark and sexy. This series is so many things and I loved them all! I could not get enough. I have read this before, but it was even better the second time around as I binged all the way through and fell in love with this series all over again.

I DARE YOU

This story is such a roller coaster ride and I loved every minute! Love, deceit, suspense and forever. I was totally consumed from the first page to the last.

Cole is complex. You will love him and love to hate him. He’s broody and weighed down with his own pain. Cole wants revenge. They will pay in blood. He has an ultimate plan and he just found the perfect pawn.

Austin stumbled upon something she never should have seen. Now she’s become their target and a pawn. She’s new in town. Her father took her in to finish her senior year after her junkie mother decided she was done parenting. She has no idea what she’s walked into, but she’s not backing down from anyone.

Cole and his friends, aka The Sharks, always have a motive. They run the town because wealth opens doors and keeps them trouble free. Challenging one another with dares is what they do. Nothing is off-limits. Austin is about to be dragged into their mayhem.

The secrets run deep. So many players out for their own agenda. Revenge will be sought and it will be ruthless. All the while Austin will do her best to survive Cole because regardless of what he does to her, their chemistry is smokin’ hot! He never wanted her, but too bad his heart had other plans.

This story was twisted and told without remorse. Cole’s love was brutal and cruel at times, yet his feelings ran deep. Austin was a warrior. Cole met his match with the girl that never backed down. I was totally invested in their need for revenge and the truth. This story was complex and the author brought all the components together beautifully to give us the perfect ending to this dark romance. I cannot wait for more!!!

——————

I PROMISE YOU

The secrets you uncover will leave you shocked! Their story isn’t over. Everyone is hiding something.

Book two picks up with a flash back. The author will take us back to the beginning. You’ll get Cole, Deke and Bennett’s point of view. You will find out so many answers to questions that plagued you and secrets you didn’t even know existed.

Twists and turns galore. This story will keep you spinning. Even with so many secrets uncovered, their is more story to be told. No one does anything without a motive and some we have yet to uncover. However, the author left us open for more.

I was totally sucked into their world. It’s complex and dark. This recaps quite a bit of book one, but with Cole’s perspective and insight from Deke and Bennett. Their disclosures will leave you wanting more.

A thrilling suspense that will keep you at the edge until the last page. It’s definitely not over.

——————

IF YOU DARE

Fighting To Survive
The plot thickens and all the twists and turns will keep you spinning! I never knew what was next. Secrets abound. Everyone lies. The players get played. Payback is coming.

Cole and Deke take friendship and loyalty to a whole other level. Nothing is out-of-bounds, no risk too great. When either calls, the other comes running. They are bound as brothers. Their connection runs deep. Everyone who hurts their loved ones will pay dearly.

Becky went off the rails. She was twisted and her own hatred for her sister was eating her alive. She couldn’t stop plotting and scheming to hurt her. Her need for vengeance would seal her own fate. It’s time for her to pay for all her sins.

Through it all there was darkness and love. Deke was darkness. She was love. She embraced his need for revenge. She welcomed all of him. Together they found a family worthy of their devotion.

This is no fairytale. He is no prince. It’s dark and will keep you questioning everything. There was so much deception you were just waiting for the next bomb to drop. Accept the crazy because once Deke loves, it’s all-consuming. Buckle up...it’s a crazy ride.

——————

Short Story - Silence
A fun and sexy holiday read as Cole and Austin channel the Halloween holiday spirit at an old asylum. Old habits die hard as Cole’s possessive tendencies and Austin’s thirst for revenge take over. Lesson learned, never mess with the GSWs.

——————

Bonus Content

My favorite couples are living their HEA’s but Cole has a bad feeling that it’s not going to last. He’s just waiting for the proverbial shoe to drop and steal their happiness. With everything that has happened, they both struggle with losing what they finally have. Their love is dark and without limits. I will never get enough of this series.
1,646 reviews71 followers
December 16, 2020
An awesome series!!! You won’t want to put this book series down! I’ve read all the books and they’re sublime! Amazing job!!!
Profile Image for  Linathebookaddict  .
1,448 reviews389 followers
December 19, 2020
Holy goodness!!
This series is absolutely brilliant. Bully romance at its best.
Mystery, adventure, danger, scorching chemistry and passion.
Cole and Austin were exploding together. The author created an amazing set of characters, filled to the brim with heat and emotion.
The writing is off the charts captivating and you won't be able to put your Kindle down.
If you are looking for a new addiction to sink your teeth into, then look no further.
I recommend it. Don't miss out.
Profile Image for Abstract ♥ Books.
1,203 reviews1,654 followers
December 12, 2020
mind-blowing
                             4


this one just blew my mind!!!! I mean, what does it say about me , that i fell in love with a heroine because of her extra talent of disposing off bodies!!!😂😂😂😂

RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

"it doesn't. Just making small talk."
"I prefer when I thought you were trying to kill me over small talk ", she snaps.
I smile. Yeah,there's something about Austin Lowes that I like. A lot


When I first saw this series, let me mention, i was not to keen to read it because it didn't seem like the type of book i would enjoy. But then i read a few reviews and finally picked it up and let me tell you, I was up for the whole night reading the full series!!!!!! well that was unexpected!!
None of you should hesitate to pick up this book because let me assure you that, this one will suck you right in and you wont regret it!!!
suitable for all bully,dark romance lovers with a complete kick-ass heroine!!



         
Profile Image for The Romantic Rush Blog.
1,914 reviews883 followers
December 11, 2020
Shantel has given us SUCH a treat- all three books in the series PLUS a delicious novella featuring our two couples. And for a great price?! What more can a girl ask for!

I LOVE THIS SERIES- and while I love everything Shantel writes, I think it will always be my favorite. I can not get enough- so it was fun to revisit the world that made me fall in love with Shantel’s writing. The Dare You series characters are incomparable- they are twisted, dark, radically imperfect, and depraved. The sharks are the kind of men that terrify you as much as they turn you on- dark masterpieces you can’t escape, and you don't want to. They are unethical, lawless, violent, and ruthless- but they also love each other and their women HARD. After they’re done playing with them, of course. And that is what this series is all about- that love-hate game. Twisted men toying with seemingly unassuming women. But then they find themselves with opponents they never expected-strong willed women who fight back harder, women who can take their crap, and women that they set out to consume but ultimately end up being consumed by them. I may need my head examined because these alpha psychoes are like candy to me- Cole and Deke are so deliciously dark and dreamy.


This series is Shantel’s best writing- my all time favorite of hers and of all series ever. Shantel wrote the playbook on enemies to lovers/dark bully drama with this series. The toxic and explosive chemistry, the redemption, the gritty emotion, the flawed characters- it is addictive. Pain, secrets, twists at every turn- the plot mirrors the characters’ chemistry- tumultuous, violent, and totally consuming. These characters will break you- and they’ll like doing it- but then they’ll heal you with their unique brand of crazy, manic love.

The bonus content was NOT AT ALL what I was expecting- I don’t even want to say anything to not spoil, but Shantel left me with my jaw on the floor completely. HOLY SMOKES. Just read it- that’s all I can say! Thank you, Shantel, for reminding me yet again why I love you and why I love this series!




For a book by book review, check out below:


I Dare You:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What an insane introduction to Shantel Tessier- one that started a long term reading relationship. After reading this series, I knew Shantel would be a one click author for me! This series is so gripping, so creative, so addictive. Shantel redefined the bully romance trope with I Dare You- and set my kindle on fire. I Dare You totally blew my mind- and broke my heart and then rebuilt it again. What an epic book hangover!

Forced to relocate to live with her estranged father, Austin has decided to treat this as a temporary purgatory, a pit stop on her way to get away from her horrid parents. Life hasn’t been easy- and the promise of freedom from everything she’s wanted to get away from only a few months away. But, then we meet Cole Reyolds- and Austin gets caught up in a dangerous game with this deliciously devious boy. Austin will never be the same, NOR WILL WE.Because Cole is everything! Cole is the revenge thirsty de facto leader of the Great White Sharks- a group of cunning, merciless rich playboys who entertain themselves by playing the sinister “I Dare You.” He’s surprised that Austin can hold her own in this game with him and his friends- even if she doesn’t quite know the full game she’s playing. An attraction grows, but Cole also wants to destroy her- mmm...yummy bully goodness! These two are so hot and intense- and we have so much mystery and so many twists! What are Cole’s real intentions? Can Austin survive- who can she trust?

Cole is SO addictive- he captivated me from his first word. He’s dark and playful and so clever. And he doesn’t care about anything- or anyone. But he has secrets- he has guilt and pain, and Austin jolts him. And I LOVE Austin- my goodness. She can hold her own with this devious crew- she’s strong and a fighter. She’s broken herself, but she’s so resilient. I loved her spunkiness and her fire. She’s so real- and both of them are so compellingly complex and interesting. And together?! SCORCHING. The intense love/hate goodness just explodes off the page. Carnal, volatile, emotional, and riveting. Add in a delightful batch of secondary characters (I heart Deke) and this just makes for a fantastic story that I want to sink down deep into and never leave. And that ending- WOAH.

This book had me on my toes- suspense, heat, danger, mystery, amazing characters and chemistry. I am obsessed with Cole and obsessed with this series!

I Promise You:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
After that jarring cliffhanger we had in I Dare You, Shantel throws us a bit of a curveball- plot twists, different POVs, and a story I wasn’t quite expecting but certainly enjoyed.

In I Promise You, we spend most of our narration in our Sharks heads- as if I couldn’t love Deke and Cole any more, now I get to get deeper insight into what makes them tick. Shantel interestingly and creatively sidelines Austin so we can really immerse ourselves in Cole’s psyche- which means we do get some much needed answers and, because its the Sharks and its Cole, we get even more drama. But really, Shantel is giving Cole the emotional range and complexity that we knew was there but couldn't quite understand in book one- and it only makes us love him more and more. We discover that all we, and Austin, thought was not quite as it seems- sure, Cole is still a shark in the water, but he’s a shark protecting instead of preying. We get to see him put everything on the line for Austin- show his undying love and devotion- and LORD, that has cemented him as my favorite Shantel heroine of all time. And Deke?! GIMME MORE He’s so fantastic, his loyalty and protectiveness, the way he gives to those he loves.

The book did read more like an alternative POV/companion for much of the story vs. a sequel- we spend a lot of the time reseeing plot aspects through new eyes, which has our plot stagnante while we explore that. But Shantel finished with a bang- and I’m dying for book 3. THis series has everything I love about a dark bully story- and what I’ve come to recognize as the undeniable talent of Shantel Tessier. Addictive story, twists, lies and secrets, manipulation, hot sex, and brutally flawed but also beautifully broken characters that make you crazy and obsessed all at once. DARK, yummy goodness!

If You Dare:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WHAT THE WHAT! I didn’t think Shantel could top our first two books- and while I knew I’d love Deke, I had NO idea he’d rival Cole in my heart. But, Shantel always is taking things to the next level of darkness and twistedness, sexiness, mind-bendingness (yeh, I made up that word), and this story wrecked me in the best possible way. This is dark intrigue, love-hate magic - powered by the brutal and ruthless sharks in the bloody waters- the monsters we love to hate and hate to love.

While this story centers on Deke, this story really ties into the first two in the series (focused on Cole and Austin)- and you really need to read them in order to understand the bigger plot at hand, who these characters are, and the stakes. This story finds our two beloved sharks and newly minted fiance Austin leaving behind the trauma and secrets in Collins, starting a new life in college in Texas. But we quickly learn that the sharks business is never done- revenge, darkness, danger, and mind games. Deke thinks he’s the master of the game- until we meet a whole new player.

I just love this world and the characters that Shantel has living in it- they are twisted, dark, radically imperfect, and depraved. The sharks are the kind of men that terrifying you as much as they turn you on- dark masterpieces you can’t escape. I had a soft spot for Deke, and he ends up being so much more messed up and morally ambiguous than I ever expected. And I need my head examined because it makes me love him even more. He’s bad, he’s crazy, he’s a big naughty antihero- but he also loves hard, he’s protective and loyal- and when those two traits combine, he will burn the world to the ground to protect.

Our love interest was just so unexpected- but she is perfect for him. She’s survived astounding pain- imbuing in her a craving for Deke’s cruelty, and giving her the strength to match him. So many sick and twisted mindgames, delicious erotic diversions, secrets and twists galore, and all the drama.

This series is Shantel’s best writing- my all time favorite of hers and of all series ever. Shantel wrote the playbook on enemies to lovers/dark bully drama with this series. The toxic and explosive chemistry, the redemption, the gritty emotion, the flawed characters- it is addictive. Pain, secrets, twists at every turn- the plot mirrors the characters’ chemistry- tumultuous, violent, and totally consuming. These characters will break you- and they’ll like doing it- but then they’ll heal you with their unique brand of crazy, manic love. I could not love this series more- and Deke has now rivaled Cole for my all time favorite man.
December 3, 2020
Book 1- Cole and Austin. Oh freaking man. What a page turning, mind blowing, all nighter of a storyline!
I don’t even have words, but I figure a few will work here.
Read this. Let Tessier take you on the ride she took me on.
This book took me 100 mph from beginning to finish, and never once hit the brakes!

Book 2- I floved getting more of GWS this time around!
If you didn’t read book 1, then stop what you’re doing and check that one out NOW!
GWS is back, giving us insight not only to Cole, but also Bennet and Deke.
To begin: I need even more Bennet. I have so many questions about so many of his actions, and no answers.
And Deke: gosh, he’s such an indescribable character. His round and round with Becky left me torn though, because she is just so unlikeable. I just can’t with her.

Book 3- Nothing quite like a rollercoaster to get the blood pumping, and I didn’t even have to hit an amusement park. Deke has been the one I was most looking forward to, and his story took me so many places in such a short amount of time, that my head is still spinning.
I’m not gonna be the one to give it away, but I will say this.
If you thought Cole & Austin were something, just wait til Deke gets ahold of you.
#youarentready
#dekeishere
#gws

Bonus- A super quick sneak peek at the gang these days. A little bit more of everyone’s HEA, and I loved sneaking in on them for a little while longer.
Profile Image for Sophie Ruthven.
1,964 reviews139 followers
December 10, 2020
No matter how many times I read this series, I never get bored. And I always seem to find something different that either shocks me or cracks me up.
Reading the boxset as a whole was certainly no different.
The bonus content was (As expected) epic, and loved how the author tied some of her worlds together yet again.
Hopefully the handiness of having all the books in one place helps introduce more readers to the sharks as they deserve to be everyone favourite read.
Look forward to seeing what the author comes up with next...
December 6, 2020
This collection is SUCH a must read!!!!!
It has all THREE books PLUS bonus content at the end that you cannot read anywhere else. And those chapters were EVERYTHING!!! It felt like old times reading Deke, Demi, Austin and Cole. I love them so much! And that ending!!!! OMFG. Just trust me. You need to read this to find out. 5 stars and MORE for these sharks and their women!!!
Profile Image for Tania's Book Blog.
1,639 reviews19 followers
December 11, 2020
Amazing series with a bada$$ heroine!! Austin is nothing like any heroine you’ve read before and Cole is perfect for her!! This series pulls you in from Chapter 1 all the way thru. You’ll be afraid to put it down. And the bonus?! Definitely an awesome read that will leave you wanting even more of these two. It was nice catching up on their lives but as always you want more!! Love it!!!
Profile Image for Lady Lauren Explorer.
820 reviews36 followers
March 11, 2024
3.5!

I definitely didn’t expect the way I was feeling by the end of the series. I took almost 2 years from reading the first book, which I think I gave either four or five stars, but as a collective it kind of dropped for me the plot I mean.

I had to reread the first book and then get my mind back into what was going to happen in the second book, because of the cliffhanger, but even the second book still had me questioning a lot of things, especially dealing with loyalty.

I thought the third book would maybe answer the questions, but they’re so many unanswered questions that stemmed from the second book that was never brought up again.

That’s why I rated it low because these are very obvious questions to the plot and and the third book it’s like the people I have questions about loyalty, completely changed personalities of their loyalty from the second book, if you get what I mean.

Into this day, a person that they had very questionable loyalty for doesn’t know all that they did that made everything happen in the first book, so is that just going to go to their grave no one knowing that they weren’t loyal for a long time and then came back loyal again.

That was been like rolling through my head for the series, and as why I did a pallet cleanser because I just had so many questions and in the third book, there’s still more questions to be answered with plot and our first couples personalities completely change.

I recommend reading this series. Yes, just know that some big questions aren’t going to be answered, but the first book is definitely the best!
Profile Image for Ashley Estep The Art of Reading .
786 reviews37 followers
December 12, 2020
What's better than one book about the Sharks? How about three plus a novella! The Dare Collection gives us all the hotness that is the sharks!

I Dare You is dark, dangerous, delicious and dirty. Austin and Cole are fire! They make the pages burn in such an amazing way. Tessier leaves me turning page after page needing more of them. It doesn't matter that I've read before. The twists and turns, lies and betrayal make me not want to stop.

I Promise You gives us more of Cole and Austin. Just when you thought their story was over Tessier gives us some more. The dark and delicious shark is back and better than ever. Austin and Cole will always be fire. They could burn down a building with the sparks they cause. A shark will always be a shark and Austin will always be Austin. These two fight as hard as they love.

If You Dare
Oh Holy Fuck!! That's what I have to say. Shantel Tessier went above and beyond with Deke's book! And he may now just be my favorite shark! From start to finish If You Dare has you sucked in. And it more than lives up to the anticipation surrounding it.

Deke Biggs doesn't give a F*** about anything, he's cold and doesn't apologize for being that way. He does what he wants and he doesn't hold back. You mess with him he fucks you over a million times worse. The love he had for Becky is gone and now he's left with a black, cold heart looking for revenge.

Deke's love triangle, or love story is absolutely amazing. I loved reading every second of Deke, Becky, and his girl's story. (I am not telling you who his girl is/ spoiler). I've never seen 3 more screwed up people.

Deke's girl is just messed up in the head as he is and hates Becky. So maybe this little love story started for the wrong reasons and even continued for awhile for the wrong reason, but even f'ed up love is still love.

And then there's Becky, I hated her before and I still hate her now! She's a bitch and will always be one, but man did I love reading when she got what she deserved.

This book goes from zero to one hundred on the first page and doesn't stop. There are moments when I was like WTH is happening but couldn't stop reading, and all those moments end up making sense. The twist and turns and the evil shit that happens in this book just speaks right to my black soul.

Bonus Content
Sometimes you don't realize how much you miss characters until you get them back. Cole and Austin once again keep the fire alive. Drunk Austin is sassier than ever and mean. This bonus content was amazing. I'm sure fighting is foreplay for Austin and Cole. And let's not forget about how she sets ups Truth or Dare perfect!


Tessier never disappoints with the lies and betrayal. her mind is a dark wonderful place I wouldn't mind seeing.
Profile Image for heareads (Debbie).
697 reviews57 followers
December 11, 2020
This series is a must read!

Book 1 - This book really sucked me in. It starts with 17 year old Austin moving in with her father, who she doesn’t get on with. One her first night she witnesses a group of guys killing someone, however, she gets caught by two of them, namely Cole, she catches his eye and he decides she will be his, to toy with and blackmail.
Cole is something else, he’s a complete a**hole! And you will hate him, but you will also love him. He’s possessive, evil, calculated but he also has a heart. I loved his relationship with his little sister.
The book follows Cole’s gang, they all dare each other to accomplish tasks that Austin gets involved in. There’s murder, theft, deceit, games, secrets and lies that all tie into a good original story that pulled me in.
——
Book two - We got a future epilogue in book one so we know about the fate of Cole and Austin but this book fills us in with what happened after everything went down.

I did enjoy this read, but there was something missing. It felt like I watching a tv show that was doing a flashback episode. I liked having more insight in what went on and how Cole/Deke handled everything and there are quite a few twists and turns that keeps you guessing.

I liked getting the POV from Deke, he’s definitely troubled and I cannot wait for his book and the continuation of the series especially since we were teased with unanswered questions, still wondering what was going on in the overall story.

Book 3 - I love this series and couldn’t wait to read Deke’s book and wow, he’s more cold and calculated than Cole but with a heart that wants to love.

This book has so much going on in it I could not put it down. The sexual tension, the suspense, the twists and turns, being back with everyone, it was perfect, but Becky! Bitch!

I thought I knew what was going to happened with this book, but no, an unexpected turn early on had me hooked with wonder with what was going to happen.

Like the other books, this is a dark read and there is violence. I loved this story, there was so many parts to it, everyone playing each other and trying to figure out what was going on kept me hooked.

I loved Deke and his woman though. She was just who he needed, someone who also shared his black heart. I loved when she played him to get her revenge.

The book goes back and forth, reminding you of scenes that happened in the first two books while engaging in the current story and I enjoyed the other prospective of it.

This was such a exciting and thrilling series that I could not put this down! A definite must read!

ARC received for an honest opinion

Profile Image for thebookishren.
1,511 reviews118 followers
December 8, 2020



Overall, I give the 𝔻𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕊𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕤 ℂ𝕠𝕝𝕝𝕖𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 4.5 stars. I LOVE it...the darkness, the steaminess, the angst, the characters.

This series collection has all 3 books: I Dare You, I Promise You, and If You Dare along with bonus content!! That bonus content was short but angsty and filled with anger and the chemistry between Cole and Austin I can't get enough of.

My absolute favorite part of this series is the aggressive, angry dynamic between Cole and Austin. Their relationship seems toxic but it's just how they are considering their history. They need that aggressive love between them to expel their inner demons and it. Is. HOT AF. I also love how twisted the series is and who Deke ends up with.

This series is also unique in the way it switches POVs to multiple characters when it's not a RH. It adds a complex depth to the story that is so engaging!

So, if you love dark, angsty, angry, thrilling, and suspenseful romance with layers of sexiness and rough love, then you NEED to read this series.



Profile Image for Ari Reads.
104 reviews4 followers
December 7, 2020
5 OUT OF 5 STARS

ARC KINDLY PROVIDED FOR AN HONEST REVIEW

BOOK 1 - This book was really intense, alot went on, turns and twist, but nothing too dramatic.
I loved Cole, he was dark, broody and hot! His character is really interesting and appealing. What made it better is that the book has a good storyline with amazing side characters. The book ends with a cliffhanger, and I'm excited to see how Shantel continues this, lovely writing by her!

BOOK 2 - This book was a really great follow up to the first one! I appreciated the plot twists incorporated by Shantel Tessier that brought out all the secrets in the open and created some great action. Austin is such a vulnerable yet great character, her struggles made me like her even more cause that made her the strong person she was by the end of the book. A great read!

BOOK 3- omfg! The final was definitely something. Super appealing plot and heartbreaking too. This book had angst, steam and just the right amount of darkness. A perfect read with the most amazing side characters. Shantel Tessier amazingly wrote this series with her full heart. Loved it!
Profile Image for R Rais.
1,409 reviews41 followers
December 4, 2020
Start with " I Dare you" the boys play a game of Dare. Some are harmless, others illegal. Along the time, there's nothing harmless on their Dare. The Dare turn more dangerous and illegal. It's either gonna get them self killed or thrown to jail.

They messed up along the way. Some of them fell in love with the wrong girl. And some of them died at the hands of others.
It's sick game they were going to end. And finish it is exactly what they had to do. Even if that meant killing one of their own. They were sharks and not all sharks can swim with others.

This series is dark, F-ed up, bloody, steamy and disturbing in so many level. And I applause the author for not holding back.
She got solid plot.
She have strong characters.
She's not afraid to go in the dark with the gory details.
Engaging story line that just force you to sit and read till the end with you holding your breath cause it's so intense!

Love this series!
Profile Image for Kelly_Reads_Books.
1,958 reviews147 followers
December 7, 2020
6 crazy, beautiful stars 🌟
I don't know if I'm more in love with Cole or Deke?
They are both ruthless and conniving,  dominant and charismatic, sexy and gritty.
Cole is the alpha male you hate to love and love to hate. He smirks and nods but is always watching and waiting.
Deke has his charms and idiosyncrasies, he smiles when angry and scowls when he's playful or working out a plan.
This series is like a puzzle, you don't know what the full picture is until you put in the last piece.
And that bonus content was like the icing on a cake, sweet and yummy and makes the reader want more!
Profile Image for Megan.
437 reviews11 followers
December 3, 2020
A series filled with jaw dropping chapters bringing every single emotion to surface. Amazing characters, more steam than anticipated and danger. We all love a little danger. These books are bound to be addictive so beware...you'll be obsessing long after you've finished!

Bonus content in this box set too was definitely needed, and very, very intriguing! Shantel is a writer who captures not only your mind but your soul too.
Profile Image for Lyndsey Young.
254 reviews11 followers
December 2, 2020
This series will forever be my favorite bully romance. I love everything about these characters. Everything that they went threw. I was always sitting at the edge of my seat with this series.

And boy oh boy that bonus content. I will never get enough of these characters. Austin and cole will forever be my favorite couple.
Profile Image for The Book Lover.
2,074 reviews32 followers
December 14, 2020
Best book ever!

I thought I loved Cole, but Deke man le sigh! if you're looking for a story full of twists and turns with a side of a bumping ride then this is the one!! I loved it!!

I love these characters and revisiting them was so much fun!!
Profile Image for Rhonda Ziglar.
3,901 reviews39 followers
December 19, 2020
5 PHENOMENAL STARS!! This series is phenomenal and all in one book it doesn't get much better then that. I was on the edge of my seat with this collection....you must read it, so grab it now.
Profile Image for Wendy *cr8zysockbookblock*.
565 reviews190 followers
December 13, 2020

I Dare You! ★ ★★ ★★!
Holy Moly! 🖤This book just took everything you could possibly want in the dark and twisted romance genre. Tossed in a world of rich high-school seniors playing an eff’d up version of “serve up some justice for you” “I Dare You” and call it a game. So this was the “Love story” about Cole and Austin. But there was so much to it and so many characters introduced to us, this author just set us up for many more books to come in this series. HELLS YEAH!! This book was erotic and sinister. It was dark and disturbing. There was angst and sexual tension for days. AND.I.FLOVED.EVERY.SHOCKING.SECOND😵,

This book was suspenseful, you didn’t know what was around the corner in the next chapter. The layers of secrets and betrayal just kept coming out! This book is fantastic. A must read for the lover of all books with a dark and delicious bully romance with a suspense twist and lots of sex and violence and great music references thrown in there. ALL THE STARS for this book ★ ★★ ★★!🦈😱🦈

I Promise You!★ ★★ ★★!

WOW just WOW!! I Promise You! I Promise You gives us a much deeper glance into the mind of Cole Reynolds. I really loved the flashbacks, it gives us more looks into the backstory of what ultimately made the GWS’s the BadA** Bully-Vigilantes that we have come to know and love. We learned some new things too that now leave us with more questions. I’m like “What is happening?” I know that must seem unfathomable to hear me say I love Cole and Deke considering all they have done up to this point, I do though!! 😍 BUT , you have to remember these guys have grown up in a very eff’d up world. Their fathers are shady AF. They have everyone in that daggum town in their back pockets, because those boys in some ways were born to be immersed into that messed up world. They were practically raised knowing how to play these sick and twisted versions of dare and games of how to serve up the best revenge and never be caught! Hell, they probably played some form of them in the backyard as kids when others were playing red rover and playing in sprinklers.. OMG though, grown!! They are all kind of dangerous, dark ,sexy and ALPHA AF.

I loved getting to see the side of Cole when he was admitting how he felt about Austin. I loved just how far he would go to protect her. It was almost...Dare I say, sweet? I guess as sweet as Cole Reynolds is capable of being. I loved the protectiveness Austin had for Cole as well, even after all he’d put her through.

“See, I told you love equals madness. Because she is just as mad as I am. “ Cole

I am really looking forward to Deke’s story, whew knew there WBA’s such a long history with Becky? I’m not so sure how I feel about her right this second. Lots of lies there Becks! I love her sisters one-liner to Deke! 🙌🏻 and with this amazing box set...YOU DON’T HAVE TO WAIT!!🤩

“Never tell someone how you feel twice.
That b*tch heard you the first time.” Demi


I have several things running through my mind, but I’m not telling what I’m thinking. 🤔 This book was great, you get some of Cole’s POV, Deke’s POV, and Bennett’s POV. If you haven’t started on this series start NOW. This series is awesome. It has suspense, violence, angst, sex, secrets, plot twists, lies upon lies. Ready for your head to spin? Five freaking fantastic ★ ★★ ★★!🦈🔥🦈

If You Dare 🦈🔥

What in the Sam Hell kinda, sick, twisted, demented- like "look of a carnie kind of creepy" Sh*t what did I just read?!?! Mind blown! 🤯Gah!! I mean like hung on every single word because I effing LOVED it Y'all! 🙌🏻 IF YOU DARE will give you so much more of an understanding of the things from the past that is mentioned in this book. Also, they happen to kick major booty, and I think everyone should experience reading them. They are THAT.FREAKIN.GOOD!

I absolutely had so many theories swarming in my head about what I just knew was gonna go down. Shantel knocked me for a loop after loop and sent my head spinning so many times during this book I felt like just walked off a ride at the theme park. Well, a dark and scary and twisted theme park. With sketchy looking rides you may or may not survive on.

So to make sure to not give anything away cause #Spoilers Suck. I will keep this pretty short and stick to the facts of what we know. Deke Biggs is a seriously sick and twisted deviant! He is probably the one to win ‘Most likely to be a Psychopath." When you tally all the completely heinous, torturous, murderous, things he has done it’s mind-boggling! Even crazier!! I'm In Love with Deke Biggs. 😍He's the Bad Ass, bad guy, you can't help but fall for. There are methods to his madness and almost always it's to exact his revenge or to protect those he loves. Deke is very loyal to those in his inner circle. Let's not forget he's hot enough to melt your favorite panties with one look. 🔥Sorry ladies, he's mine.
I love, love, love the way Shantel played out this story in regards to the love interests. It was something unexpected but amazing. Deke, is a particular kind of beautifully sick and twisted, deep down he has certain needs, ways he does things. He may not even realize he needs someone to help meet those, an equal per se. Whoever this special gal is, will have to be just as strong and have a little devilish in her too.😈


It cannot possibly see all the remaining GWS’s 🦈 enough. I'm so invested in all their lives. I felt like I needed to see how the rest of the GWS’s stories played out. Shantel Tessier is fascinating in her ability to transport readers into this dark and delicious world. With her vivid descriptions of all the sights, sounds, smells, just everything. She doesn't spare any detail. So for a little while, I enjoyed my little fantasy of getting to be BFF's with these booty-kickin chicks, speeding down the road in the guys' cars Jammin out to their rock music. That's the world Shantel transformed me into.♥️🖤🦈

I was literally on the edge of my seat for 99 % of this book. As much as I thought I had it figured out, I didn’t know Crap! I Love it when the floor gets swept out from under me.
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥- This book was scorching hot! Like a dropped cigarette on a puddle of fresh gasoline. There was lots of flaming hot scenes. They were everything!! 🔥 Definite Panty Chucker Y’all! I wouldn’d dare give the phenomenal book anything less than FIVE FLIPPING STARS.★ ★★ ★★!

Bonus Material ★ ★★ ★★!

The bonus material in this box series is just enough of a taste to bring us back into this world and make us want more. More of Cole and his feisty girl that takes no crap, Austin. Deke Biggs, I will never get enough of it. This bonus is just enough to get me sucked in and ready for more GWS’s and the ladies that bring these men to their knees. I am beyond excited for the things to come. ARE YOU READY? ♥️🖤🦈

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Profile Image for Micheala.
1,002 reviews78 followers
December 11, 2020
ARC received from the author. Voluntarily reviewing and all opinions are objective and my own. I had read each book individually before this, so this is a review of all three books in summary, as well as the bonus content.

I Dare You:

It just pulls you right in from the first line and refuses to let you go. I went through so many feelings while reading, with fear being at the forefront for most of it. Some happiness in there, more fear, sadness and then ending happy.

Austin is literally unwanted by her mother, harassed by her mother’s boyfriend, ignored by the father she is sent to, and tolerated, at first bordering on liked, by her stepmother. So she’s sent to her father only to stumble into a group of boys, with one taking the lead on her demise.

Cole sets out to destroy Austin emotionally. After an accident that he took blame for, he decides how else live life but to make other people suffer, so that’s what he does with Austin. She stumbles into a dark secret, so he has fun with her to ensure that she won’t rat him out.

For the first chunk of the book that is how it goes. The hate between these two are so strong and so hot, my Kobo almost melted. And then we see the big bag Cole melt more and more for her. What I loved most about these two was the slow burn romance. The physical happened much sooner, but it took a long time for either of them to realize their true feelings. Austin knew it sooner I believe, but ignored it, knowing he didn’t want her in return, while Cole fought it every step of the way. Until a certain point. Then they melted my ereader for just being so cute together. I loved their bantering, their romantic moments, and his protective moments. All the moments just fit these two so well.

So on top of this dark YA romance, there is a game of dares, a boy’s club, a twisty plot filled with horrible fathers, jealous stepmothers, bad people, and a jerk of a friend. Let’s not forget to add a nice friendship, a wonderful male secondary character, a cute secondary character romance...oh, and violence, murder, and hot sex. Curious how these all fit together? I hope so, because then it’ll make you read it.

5 stars all the way!

I Promise You:


I was slightly disappointed by this one, mainly because I was under the impression that this was about Deke only. Instead it’s more of a 1.5 book/middle book rather than a second in a series. It takes place after the first one, after the fallout of finding Austin attacked at the end. While the main book jumped to the future, this one gives us Cole’s POV to show what happened when he found her, and after when she was in the hospital dealing with the fallout. We also got to see a lot of the scenes from the first book in his POV; or all the bad things he did to her, we now see what was in his head at the time. So that was a great insight.

At the same time, this one is introducing Deke to us. In the first book, he was just the interesting best friend, but now we get chapters in his perspective (about half the book) and we get to see first-hand what the problems are that he is having; thus hints about the next book. I am very excited for the next book because I really want to see what will happen to the group, and how Deke’s romance will work out for him.

I really enjoyed this one; the insights were great. I just didn’t expect it to be what it was.

If You Dare


I received an ARC from the author.

After the hit of the first two, I knew I’d be in for a wild ride! Deke is life!

The author took me by surprise with this book from the very beginning. After the first two, this one is set up to be about a certain character paired with Deke. In fact, the book starts with him working to get her back. So I was totally surprised when a new player came into the game...and then quickly became player number 1. In fact, ex-player number 1 became villain number 1, and has been for so much of this plot, going back to book 1. This is written in an odd way to avoid as much spoilers as possible.

But I loved it! Because the beginning sets Demi up to be one type of character, but that quickly changes and I just felt for her. The poor girl. More so, I loved how this book played out and appreciate the author for it. In book 1 when it’s designed that there are couples all around, and happily-ever-afters must be in the air. But it doesn’t follow that pretty cut-and-paste path. She builds these characters right from the beginning to have a bigger play. So when we’re assuming this book will be a HEA with them, she surprises readers, throws a twist in the pre-HEAs, and gives it a 180. I love when authors still give me the ending I need, but made it happen through an unexpected and even unconventional way.

I guess this could be considered a love triangle at its loosest, but Deke’s love triangle is unlike any I have read. It’s dark, twisty, and plain ol’ fun.

This book reveals so many answers and background stories that help enforce what occurred through the first book. Again, a sign of good writing. For this large, complex story, it may be told in the POVs of different players, but it’s all focused around the same story that started in book 1. So by the time this one rolled around, the events of book 1 were not simply that; events of the past. They shaped this story, made this story happen, and provided so much background, it’s insane. In fact, I think this one helped make the first book even better by strengthening it.

Overall, I loved this book! I’m taking the “The End For Now” to heart and will just be waiting impatiently until more occurs. I have a suspicion which two characters the next one will be about. It was a fantastic read!
Bonus Content:

I think the bonus content is a great addition in seeing how their lives and marriages progressed. Definitely sets up the future surprise the author mentioned at the end!
610 reviews1 follower
January 8, 2022
I Dare You....To Read This

This was a crazy ride. Cole, Deke, Austin and the gang really DARE YOU to find the answers to all the questions you will have. This series gives you dark themes that won't be too much, the bully themes are crazy, but Austin isn't one to back down and take it. She shows them whose boss, and who is the better shark. Her. Enjoy the ride is the best journey yet. So many twists
Profile Image for Tahlia.
39 reviews4 followers
January 24, 2024
3 stars 🌟🌟🌟 all up!
First book was good! Suspenseful, mysterious, crazy/wild and smutty, just your typical bully romance and I enjoyed it - for Shantel’s earlier work, it was well done!
Second book - felt a little copy and pasted, I got a little bored and the story felt repetitive, going past tense and back to present gave me whiplash. I found it a little hard to keep up.
The ending was great ! Just took me a while to get there.
Profile Image for Renee.
4,188 reviews55 followers
December 16, 2020
Dare

What do you do when the devil has you in his sights? You show him that you can play his game. Austin Lowes is new to town. SHe's running from a mom who hates her to her dad who cares nothing about her. Only a few months and she will be free, or at least that's what she hopes...until she meets him. Cole Reynolds is the devil disguised as a man. He wants her fear, he wants her blood, and he wants her soul. Just a little game he says, I dare you. Will Austin survive him or will she lose herself and the game? Secrets are revealed and justice will be served, but at what cost? Who survives and who doesn't?

This book is dark and gritty and absolutely amazing. These characters are really hard not to fall in love with no matter how messed up they are. Austin has a mom and a dad who are not together and live in different states. Her dad could care less and just sends her mom money which she uses on her boyfriend and drugs and neither really give a crap about her. When she gets to town her curious minds gets the best of her and she sees something that she should never ever see. And this is what leads her into the twisted world of Cole and other guys in the high school. However, theirs is a world that no one would ever want to be in. These guys are the stars of the swim town and basically run the town. None of them have the greatest parents and they are brothers to each other and have a club where they do dares. Now, not by choice Austin is brought into their world. However she is not as naive or stupid as they expect her to be and she gives to Cole just as good as she gets. There are so many twists and turns in this book and I don't want to give anything away. Just pick is up and read it. You will not be able to put it down.

I Promise You

It was suppose to be a game. I Dare You. We brought her in because I wanted top lay with her. Destroy her. But plans change and she got caught in the cross fire. Then I did something far worse. I fell in love with her, but she doesn't know I still have secrets. Ones that could rip us apart.

Holy wow this book is equally as good as I Dare You. I didn't think their could be many more secrets but I was so wrong. This book picks up where I Dare You left off. I know that you read and eleven years in the future epilogue in I Dare You, but this takes off from the point in the book where it ends before the epilogue. Kellan too has been keeping some major secrets that surprised me in I Dare You but you don't have th entire series figured out. This book is so good and I do not want to give anything away. You need to pick them up and read them if you have not read I Dare You. Be thankful that you can jump right into this book and don't have to wait for this book to come out. I loved this book and these characters. This is a must read without a doubt. Especially if you like dark books that keep you guessing at every turn.

If You Dare

The game was over. the dares were getting old, and the secrets were piling up faster than the bodies. But someone had other plans. They wanted to play a new game. Becky Holt was the love of his life until he found out what she was hiding. Now he wants to seek his revenge in the most daring way. Deke Biggs has always been a shark.He's not afraid to kill, and he's about to become her worst nightmare. But there's a new player, and she plans on taking everything, no matter what the cost. Try to beat him-If You Dare!!! Who will win and who will lose.

This is the third book in the Dare Series from Shantel Tessier. You have to have read I Dare You and I Promise You or you are going to be lost. This book is everything we have all been waiting and hoping for. It is dark and dirty and simply amazing. It will have your heart rate kicking up and on the edge of your seat. This is the pay off but also the end. I am sad to see this series end. If you love dark and twisted love stories then you do not want to miss this book or I should say this series since there are three in it. If you are just now starting your lucky you don't have to wait for each book to come out. I will warn you to make sure you have the time because your not going to want to be doing anything else.

There is also bonus content in this collection which is amazing and you do not want to miss.
February 7, 2021
✨ DENISE’S REVIEW ✨

Cunning. Ruthless. Merciless. Unexpected.

This series right here is one of the best I’ve read! I cannot stress that ENOUGH!

It is full of everything you want from a dark and twisted SERIES! Extremely gripping, phenomenally written, and crazy intense! Full of twists and turns that are unexpected, a mesmerizing and all-consuming plot with characters that you won’t forget! I literally didn’t eat, didn’t sleep, and locked myself away in my room until I finished the last word of this book — trust me, you will be the same!

“We are sharks and not all sharks can swim with others.”

Shantel truly blew me away with that mind of hers, and the way she’s able to weave such a captivating, thrilling, and mysterious plot with the craziness twists and turns — BRILLIANT! All of my expectations were thrown out in the water because she exceed them AND more! I want to take a dive in with these boys!!

Need I say more? Pick up this series NOOW!!!!

If you’re into dangerous anti-hero AHOLES, dark, gritty, raw romance and HOT AF, panty dropping scenes with the most sassiest and fierce heroines who are these bad boys’ equals in every single way... YOU NEED THIS SERIES IN YOUR LIFE! Pronto!!!

Thank me later 🥰

Five dark and twisted stars: 💫💫💫💫💫
Profile Image for LianaReads blog.
2,452 reviews218 followers
Read
March 4, 2023
ETA I’ve read them all and got my answers

A new crazy and twisted and complicated read that i absolutely love because of the badass female character and also the powerful GMS team, each one more enigmatic than the others and all the twists and turns that this book has kept my mouth opened till the edgy ending. There are a lot of questions that need answers and hopefully, we will get them in the next books.
Profile Image for Catherine.
273 reviews5 followers
September 16, 2023
Dark, twisted, and full of secrets, revenge, and betrayal. Shantel is amazing at letting you know you are missing information without actually giving it away. All of her characters have secrets. Some of these secrets are more harmful than others. Just when you think you have figured everything out, someone does something you would never expect and completely changes everything. You can not help being sucked into this dark world where no one is safe.

.........

I Dare You

This is Cole and Austin's story. Cole has all the red flags you could want in a dark romance MMC, and Austin is a strong FMC who fights back. Cole and Austin definitely battle each other as they grow closer together, figuring out what the hell is going on in their city and with their families. Cole plays a twisted game of dares with his friends and decides to use Austin. But he underestimated her, and she learns how to play the game quickly. This is a great dark high school bully romance with enemies to lovers vibes.

I Promise You

In I Promise You, you start to get more characters' points of view. Just when I thought I knew where everyone stood from the ending of the first book, I was proven wrong. Austin is healing, and she and Cole start trying to build their life together with Lilly. This book helps transition from Cole and Austin's story to everything going on with Deke.

If You Dare

Deke has learned some secrets that have changed the way he feels about certain people. While he keeps these secrets to himself for a while, they eventually come out. Nothing is as it seems, and everyone is on edge as they get dragged into another game. The GWS have made a lot of enemies over the years, so everyone is a suspect. Deke will do anything to protect those he cares about, but he no longer knows who is his friend is and who is the enemy.
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