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Crown Jewels
My mother thought I chose a college across the country for the excellent cinematic arts program, but that wasn’t true. I moved to California for one reason. Being a Kessler didn’t mean shit here.
Here I was just another face in the crowd. The only person who had any idea about who I was, was my best friend Mitch. And, I couldn’t stop obsessing over his baby sister, Emma.
I logged onto her cam show every night. I followed her when she went for coffee in the morning, and I stood at the end of her bed at night and watched her sleep. When the opportunity came for me to take more, I couldn't help myself, even if there would be dire consequences.
Because if my parents didn't kill me for the adult film career I started, then when Mitch found out what I did to his sister, he sure as fuck would.
Given how I grew up some would say my career choice was a tad cliche, but I had to pay for college somehow. And it was lucrative. Besides, my brother had a gambling problem and someone had to keep up with his debts. But I didn't mind.
Mitch and I didn't have anyone else. Just each other. Well, there was his best friend. Mind you, I never asked for that friendship. And I sure as hell didn't think I wanted it.
Vahn Kessler was a self righteous asshole. The last thing I ever thought he would do, was save me. But he did, and in more ways than one.
Just when I was starting to see some good in him, Vahn informed me of what he wanted. And it wasn't my friendship.
He wanted everything, whether I agreed or not.
So much for being my brother's best friend.
Here I was just another face in the crowd. The only person who had any idea about who I was, was my best friend Mitch. And, I couldn’t stop obsessing over his baby sister, Emma.
I logged onto her cam show every night. I followed her when she went for coffee in the morning, and I stood at the end of her bed at night and watched her sleep. When the opportunity came for me to take more, I couldn't help myself, even if there would be dire consequences.
Because if my parents didn't kill me for the adult film career I started, then when Mitch found out what I did to his sister, he sure as fuck would.
Given how I grew up some would say my career choice was a tad cliche, but I had to pay for college somehow. And it was lucrative. Besides, my brother had a gambling problem and someone had to keep up with his debts. But I didn't mind.
Mitch and I didn't have anyone else. Just each other. Well, there was his best friend. Mind you, I never asked for that friendship. And I sure as hell didn't think I wanted it.
Vahn Kessler was a self righteous asshole. The last thing I ever thought he would do, was save me. But he did, and in more ways than one.
Just when I was starting to see some good in him, Vahn informed me of what he wanted. And it wasn't my friendship.
He wanted everything, whether I agreed or not.
So much for being my brother's best friend.
160 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
May 20, 2025
I will be patiently waiting for the next book. I NEED more. I feel like this was the perfect intro into these characters and their world. We got to know them, see how they are with each other, how obsessed Vahn is and how sweet Emma is.
This was a great addition to the Behind The Lens series. The holiday Emma (the author) chose to do was really cool and different which I really liked. This was a fast paced book that had me hooked from the start.
Really want to check out the other books by this author considering this is a second gen book. Now I'm really curious about the previous books!! And I really REALLY need more of Vahn and Emma. I need to see how their relationship is gonna develop and what's gonna happen when all the secrets are exposed.
This was a great addition to the Behind The Lens series. The holiday Emma (the author) chose to do was really cool and different which I really liked. This was a fast paced book that had me hooked from the start.
Really want to check out the other books by this author considering this is a second gen book. Now I'm really curious about the previous books!! And I really REALLY need more of Vahn and Emma. I need to see how their relationship is gonna develop and what's gonna happen when all the secrets are exposed.
May 14, 2025
Although this is from the Behind The Lens series, it's also a chance to get the first look at the next gen of The Order Of Ravens And Wolves series and Vahn Kessler did not disappoint... He is most definitely his father's son - arrogant, rude, hot and knows what he wants.
Emma has had it rough and is the definition of a people pleaser which is actually quite sad!
However there is one person she won't bow down too - Vahn!!
Really enjoyed the push and pull and the banter. I'm excited for what's to come ...
4.5
Emma has had it rough and is the definition of a people pleaser which is actually quite sad!
However there is one person she won't bow down too - Vahn!!
Really enjoyed the push and pull and the banter. I'm excited for what's to come ...
4.5
May 18, 2025
"𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧'𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮..."
This was so good! It’s a short story, that definitely makes me wanting more. I absolutely loved Vahn. He was hilarious, very unhinged at times…but also sweet also at times, and very protective!
Emma was great too! This book is spicy, there’s a lot of tension between these two and lots of banter. I really enjoyed it and will be reading more from this author.
This was so good! It’s a short story, that definitely makes me wanting more. I absolutely loved Vahn. He was hilarious, very unhinged at times…but also sweet also at times, and very protective!
Emma was great too! This book is spicy, there’s a lot of tension between these two and lots of banter. I really enjoyed it and will be reading more from this author.
May 27, 2025
150/160 pages were just pure sexual tension!!! I truly was not expecting the ending. But also, why did this story end on such a big cliffhanger??? The other stories in this series all seem to have closure but this one. I definitely want to read more about Vahn & Emma. What happens with Mitch? What happens after the calendar photoshoot? So many unanswered questions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2025
Crown Jewels, book 5 of the Behind The Lens series, by T. L. Hodel @tarahodel is a new author for me.
I really enjoyed this high-spice book about Vahn & Emma! Tropes: Contemporary, MF, Cam Worker, Porn Worker, Virgin FMC, No Cheating But On Page Sex With Others Before They Got Together, No 3rd Act Break Up & HFN!
I really enjoyed this high-spice book about Vahn & Emma! Tropes: Contemporary, MF, Cam Worker, Porn Worker, Virgin FMC, No Cheating But On Page Sex With Others Before They Got Together, No 3rd Act Break Up & HFN!
May 20, 2025
4/5⭐️
2/5🌶️
While I really enjoyed the story I was disappointed it just ended. I’m not sure if the author is planning to continue their story but I definitely need more. I would have loved to see more building of their relationship and such. But the base of the story is really good.
2/5🌶️
While I really enjoyed the story I was disappointed it just ended. I’m not sure if the author is planning to continue their story but I definitely need more. I would have loved to see more building of their relationship and such. But the base of the story is really good.
May 21, 2025
So this book ends on a cliffhanger and I need to know what happens with Emma & Vahn, Mitch, and with Vahn dad! But other than that the storyline was good and I liked the plot. The brother bugged me but Emma & Vahn are definitely end game
May 21, 2025
I LOVED THIS STORY! As a next generation snippet from the Order of Ravens and Wolves series but also part of the Behind the Lens shared world series, it was a treat all around. Loved this quick glimpse into Vahn's life. He was possessive and protective and everything you want in that bad-guy-who's-got-a-really-big-heart-for-his-woman kind of character. I loved Emma and her insecurities and inexperience despite her job. But she also had a backbone from her past and for her brother. The banter between Emma and Vahn was amazing! It ended kinda quickly but I'm hoping the author will expand the story some time in the future!
May 20, 2025
I don't have words for how this story went because holy crap was it fantastic! All I can say is a need more Vahn and Emma ASAP!!!
T.L. Hodel is a new to me author and some of the story that is discussed in this book play off of previous books but you do not need to read them to understand what is going on in this one (although you can 100% bet that I will be going back asap and reading everything!)
Vahn is your typical college kid- going to class by day, getting all the ladies at night, and oh yeah, he's moonlighting as poor, making adult films in his spare time, and obsessing over his friend's sister, who he happens to live with.
Emma is just trying to stay afloat. Having been a foster kid with a crappy childhood, and Mithh as her only family left, she would do anything to make people happy, which is why she is camming on the side to help pay off her brother's gambling debts all while trying to get her college degree and somehow not fall for the jerk, Vahn Kessler, who is living with them and seems to be the only person she is not out to try to please. Is it so hard for her to get her fairy tale ending, you know the one where the guy is obsessed with her?
I loved Emma and Vahn right from the beginning. The tension, the push and pull between them, the barbs they throw at each other. Everything really set you up to know that when they finally gave into temptation, it was going to be epic. And epic it was. I was pleasantly surprised that they didn't give into temptation during their calendar shoot but was glad after reading it because I think it made it move believable. Vahn has such a massive secret (and now a massive mission to try to make sure his father accepts Emma as his) that it was nice to see that he didn't give in and take what he wanted to right there in the studio. I think that tension from the studio that boiled over into their apartment was perfect.
I for one can't wait to see what comes next, because I can't be left hanging like this. All of Vahn's secrets have to come out, and I need to see how Emma handles them all. Plus, I need to know if Mitch will survive. I will be waiting on pins and needles to see what happens next!
T.L. Hodel is a new to me author and some of the story that is discussed in this book play off of previous books but you do not need to read them to understand what is going on in this one (although you can 100% bet that I will be going back asap and reading everything!)
Vahn is your typical college kid- going to class by day, getting all the ladies at night, and oh yeah, he's moonlighting as poor, making adult films in his spare time, and obsessing over his friend's sister, who he happens to live with.
Emma is just trying to stay afloat. Having been a foster kid with a crappy childhood, and Mithh as her only family left, she would do anything to make people happy, which is why she is camming on the side to help pay off her brother's gambling debts all while trying to get her college degree and somehow not fall for the jerk, Vahn Kessler, who is living with them and seems to be the only person she is not out to try to please. Is it so hard for her to get her fairy tale ending, you know the one where the guy is obsessed with her?
I loved Emma and Vahn right from the beginning. The tension, the push and pull between them, the barbs they throw at each other. Everything really set you up to know that when they finally gave into temptation, it was going to be epic. And epic it was. I was pleasantly surprised that they didn't give into temptation during their calendar shoot but was glad after reading it because I think it made it move believable. Vahn has such a massive secret (and now a massive mission to try to make sure his father accepts Emma as his) that it was nice to see that he didn't give in and take what he wanted to right there in the studio. I think that tension from the studio that boiled over into their apartment was perfect.
I for one can't wait to see what comes next, because I can't be left hanging like this. All of Vahn's secrets have to come out, and I need to see how Emma handles them all. Plus, I need to know if Mitch will survive. I will be waiting on pins and needles to see what happens next!
May 20, 2025
This book was fun to see the next generation in action, and Vahn Kessler is very much like his father in his stalkery ways lol.
Vahn has the cocky arrogant attitude that comes with being a Kessler but decides to lie a bit about his past and slum it with his gambling addicted best friend and his younger sister as he goes through his college years. He has a secret he is keeping from his family and friends, but soon it will all change when he decides to stake a claim on the naïve and innocent Emma. With both Vahn & Emma working for Behind the Lens productions gives Vahn access to his forbidden little obsession as he watches Emma's cam show, none the wiser. Vahn has his own videos that he stars in, which gives him the ability to not feel like the next heir to the throne that his father, Micah Kessler, wants. As he keeps more secrets, he finds himself straddling the line of obligations to his family and his craving to take sweet Emma into his chaotic, messy world of the Order of the Ravens & Wolves. You can expect all the crazy unhinged moments, OTT J/P MMC, manipulation, secrets & lies, dark themes, naïve/innocent FMC, spice, and an HFN ending.
If you loved the OG's from The Order of the Ravens and Wolves series, you will definitely want to grab this quick read that lets you into the world of the next generation starring Zahn Kessler. Be ready for all the chaos these characters like to bring. It's a quick, dirty, fun read that you will definitely want more of by the end!!
Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Vahn has the cocky arrogant attitude that comes with being a Kessler but decides to lie a bit about his past and slum it with his gambling addicted best friend and his younger sister as he goes through his college years. He has a secret he is keeping from his family and friends, but soon it will all change when he decides to stake a claim on the naïve and innocent Emma. With both Vahn & Emma working for Behind the Lens productions gives Vahn access to his forbidden little obsession as he watches Emma's cam show, none the wiser. Vahn has his own videos that he stars in, which gives him the ability to not feel like the next heir to the throne that his father, Micah Kessler, wants. As he keeps more secrets, he finds himself straddling the line of obligations to his family and his craving to take sweet Emma into his chaotic, messy world of the Order of the Ravens & Wolves. You can expect all the crazy unhinged moments, OTT J/P MMC, manipulation, secrets & lies, dark themes, naïve/innocent FMC, spice, and an HFN ending.
If you loved the OG's from The Order of the Ravens and Wolves series, you will definitely want to grab this quick read that lets you into the world of the next generation starring Zahn Kessler. Be ready for all the chaos these characters like to bring. It's a quick, dirty, fun read that you will definitely want more of by the end!!
Overall: 5/☆☆☆☆☆
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
May 10, 2025
A first time read for me from this author and it was certainly "different" to what I usually read.
A little dark, some spice, a little bit of porn thrown in and lots of secrets......
Vahn comes from a rich family (A secret to the siblings, Emma and MItch, with who he lives with, whilst at Uni)....
I am still determining if he is Mafia, but to become the heir and "king of Kings", I suppose it is! maybe...
The story line was a bit vague at times but still I had to know if the guy got the girl.......
Still a virgin, Emma did some dubious things to earn money to pay her Uni fees and help prop up her brothers gambling habit. Forever in debt she is asked to be in the Calendar where she "worked".
Having not had to present herself in person at the "office" she felt she needed a sidekick for her little "Skit". SO she asked the only person she truly trusted, Vahn, even though he acted like he hated his best friends little sister....see where this is going......
Of course he says yes to helping her, and as he has watched, stalked, salivated and longed from afar, he finally gets his girl....cos he decides he isn't letting go! Typical Mafia, yes?!
BUT does he get to keep his girl. Finishing on a soft cliff hanger with a HFN I am hoping there is a book 2 to answer all the questions going through my head right now!
A resounding 4 stars from me!
A little dark, some spice, a little bit of porn thrown in and lots of secrets......
Vahn comes from a rich family (A secret to the siblings, Emma and MItch, with who he lives with, whilst at Uni)....
I am still determining if he is Mafia, but to become the heir and "king of Kings", I suppose it is! maybe...
The story line was a bit vague at times but still I had to know if the guy got the girl.......
Still a virgin, Emma did some dubious things to earn money to pay her Uni fees and help prop up her brothers gambling habit. Forever in debt she is asked to be in the Calendar where she "worked".
Having not had to present herself in person at the "office" she felt she needed a sidekick for her little "Skit". SO she asked the only person she truly trusted, Vahn, even though he acted like he hated his best friends little sister....see where this is going......
Of course he says yes to helping her, and as he has watched, stalked, salivated and longed from afar, he finally gets his girl....cos he decides he isn't letting go! Typical Mafia, yes?!
BUT does he get to keep his girl. Finishing on a soft cliff hanger with a HFN I am hoping there is a book 2 to answer all the questions going through my head right now!
A resounding 4 stars from me!
May 20, 2025
Crown Jewel is the fifth installment in the Behind The Lens shared world. The books can be read as standalone or in any order without any confusion. This is a very tame Brother's Best Friend , Mafia Romance with a small amount of spice and violence.
One of my favorite things about reading a shared world series is discovering new to me authors. Crown Jewels is the first T L Holdel Book I have read. I loved the introduction we got to two amazing characters that both work for Behind The Lens. Vahn and Emma could not be any more different and yet still be in the same industry. Vahn with his overconfidence and experience, both in the bedroom and life. Emma's pure innocence in everything. Mix the two together and the potential for a fabulous opposites attract, forbidden romance is undeniable. I say introduction and potential because I felt this read more like a trailer for a book, than an actual story. It did a fabulous job as a teaser to an upcoming book, the tidbits we were fed had me hungry for more. I need the answers to the many scenarios left open ended. I need to know what becomes of Vahn and Emma.
Overall I felt this was an enjoyable preview of something to come. It is well written with excellent character and plot development. It is very mild in the spice arena, and there was even less suspense than spice.
One of my favorite things about reading a shared world series is discovering new to me authors. Crown Jewels is the first T L Holdel Book I have read. I loved the introduction we got to two amazing characters that both work for Behind The Lens. Vahn and Emma could not be any more different and yet still be in the same industry. Vahn with his overconfidence and experience, both in the bedroom and life. Emma's pure innocence in everything. Mix the two together and the potential for a fabulous opposites attract, forbidden romance is undeniable. I say introduction and potential because I felt this read more like a trailer for a book, than an actual story. It did a fabulous job as a teaser to an upcoming book, the tidbits we were fed had me hungry for more. I need the answers to the many scenarios left open ended. I need to know what becomes of Vahn and Emma.
Overall I felt this was an enjoyable preview of something to come. It is well written with excellent character and plot development. It is very mild in the spice arena, and there was even less suspense than spice.
May 24, 2025
Great story - One BIG complaint
I really did enjoy this story and read it in one sitting. I’m hoping this is a prequel to a “next gen” series for Order of Ravens and Wolves because it definitely has a cliff-hanger vibe to the ending.
My one big complaint is that in the digital version, IN THE VERY FIRST SENTENCE, an entire clause is missing!!! How can an editor have missed that? See the direct copy-and-paste below:
“Typically, there were two reasons people chose to move to L.A., , and for their dreams of fame, that more than likely wouldn’t come true.”
Is the missing clause crucial to the story? Probably not. But, it definitely doesn’t set the tone the author probably hoped for when she crafted that opening line. Hopefully, that mistake can get resolved. I won’t go off on my tangent about misuse of pronouns (subjective vs objective) because it seems writers and editors these days just don’t care. Okay, maybe I just did. But, this author is not alone in that arena. Sigh.
Editing aside, I enjoyed this book and the characters, and like I said earlier, I hope we get more of them!
I really did enjoy this story and read it in one sitting. I’m hoping this is a prequel to a “next gen” series for Order of Ravens and Wolves because it definitely has a cliff-hanger vibe to the ending.
My one big complaint is that in the digital version, IN THE VERY FIRST SENTENCE, an entire clause is missing!!! How can an editor have missed that? See the direct copy-and-paste below:
“Typically, there were two reasons people chose to move to L.A., , and for their dreams of fame, that more than likely wouldn’t come true.”
Is the missing clause crucial to the story? Probably not. But, it definitely doesn’t set the tone the author probably hoped for when she crafted that opening line. Hopefully, that mistake can get resolved. I won’t go off on my tangent about misuse of pronouns (subjective vs objective) because it seems writers and editors these days just don’t care. Okay, maybe I just did. But, this author is not alone in that arena. Sigh.
Editing aside, I enjoyed this book and the characters, and like I said earlier, I hope we get more of them!
May 16, 2025
I have read several books by T.L. Hodel, and she never fails to deliver — and Crown Jewels is no exception. This one pulled me in from the very first page. The chemistry between Vahn and Emma absolutely sizzles, and the push-and-pull dynamic kept me hooked the whole way through. Vahn is exactly the kind of broody, possessive antihero I love, and Emma’s quiet strength and resilience made me root for her from the start. Their banter, tension, and emotional connection were perfectly balanced with just the right amount of spice and mystery.
Although this book is part of the Behind the Lens series, it also hints at deeper connections to The Order of Ravens and Wolves world, which I really enjoyed as a fan of both. Yes, it ends on a happy-for-now with plenty of open threads, but that just means I’ll be first in line for the next installment. If you like your romance a little dark, a lot steamy, and filled with secrets, this book is for you. Another win from T.L. Hodel!
Although this book is part of the Behind the Lens series, it also hints at deeper connections to The Order of Ravens and Wolves world, which I really enjoyed as a fan of both. Yes, it ends on a happy-for-now with plenty of open threads, but that just means I’ll be first in line for the next installment. If you like your romance a little dark, a lot steamy, and filled with secrets, this book is for you. Another win from T.L. Hodel!
May 20, 2025
This is the first book of T.L.'s that I have ever read, and I loved it.
Vahn and Emma were right up my alley. I am so in love with the cam girl/cam boy scenario and may have to find a rabbit hole to go down.
Emma is a virgin, and Vahn is her brother's best friend. Vahn is hiding everything about who he is except for his name. Emma is a cam girl working for the same company that Vahn does, Behind the Lens. She was invited to do a photo shoot for a calendar and video. After days of sexual tension with Vahn after he shoved his fingers into her pants and then left her on edge, she asked for his help for this video.
This book was funny at times, but also so fast-paced and ended on a cliffhanger to move into the second book. It was insta-love for him, though he was in denial, and there was skepticism and denial from her.
I rather enjoyed it. Some parts didn't make sense to me, and I probably won't read the second book when it comes out, but that's not to say the book wasn't good.
Vahn and Emma were right up my alley. I am so in love with the cam girl/cam boy scenario and may have to find a rabbit hole to go down.
Emma is a virgin, and Vahn is her brother's best friend. Vahn is hiding everything about who he is except for his name. Emma is a cam girl working for the same company that Vahn does, Behind the Lens. She was invited to do a photo shoot for a calendar and video. After days of sexual tension with Vahn after he shoved his fingers into her pants and then left her on edge, she asked for his help for this video.
This book was funny at times, but also so fast-paced and ended on a cliffhanger to move into the second book. It was insta-love for him, though he was in denial, and there was skepticism and denial from her.
I rather enjoyed it. Some parts didn't make sense to me, and I probably won't read the second book when it comes out, but that's not to say the book wasn't good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2025
This book is part of the Behind the Lens series. I believe there will be a total of 12 books in this series once it is completed. This is a collaborative effort from 12 amazing authors. I have never read a T.L. Hodel book prior to this but I will definitely be looking into them now!
This book was so good!! It was slightly dark, slightly depraved and I loved reading every minute of it! Vahn is an unhinged, and possessive alphahole. He is obsessive and knows she is too good for him. Emma is his opposite in every way. Emma is a sweetheart and tries to make everyone happy.
It floored me when this book came to an end! I wanted more of this story but I guess I’ll have to wait until there is a second book for Vahn and Emma!
Thank you, T.L. Hodel for such a wonderful book! The machinations of Vahn had me in a tizzy! I am so looking forward to seeing how he works through the landmines left behind…
This book was so good!! It was slightly dark, slightly depraved and I loved reading every minute of it! Vahn is an unhinged, and possessive alphahole. He is obsessive and knows she is too good for him. Emma is his opposite in every way. Emma is a sweetheart and tries to make everyone happy.
It floored me when this book came to an end! I wanted more of this story but I guess I’ll have to wait until there is a second book for Vahn and Emma!
Thank you, T.L. Hodel for such a wonderful book! The machinations of Vahn had me in a tizzy! I am so looking forward to seeing how he works through the landmines left behind…
May 16, 2025
Format: 📱 eBook 📱 (ARC)
Check CWs before reading
This was a fun one to read! I really enjoyed the established love/hate relationship between Vahn and Emma, and how through the pages they worked around it and got together. Throw that in with the mafia vibes, and my interest was piqued.
It's a quick read - the shortest in the series so far - but gives you just enough to want to keep reading, waiting for the plot twist you just know is coming, even if you don't pick exactly what it'll be.
There's great banter and back-and-forth goodness between these two, and the tension is definitely there. I enjoyed that Vahn is also in the adult industry, albeit in a different way to Emma, even though they work for the same company.
Do be aware it does end on a bit of an abrupt cliffhanger (don't worry, it's a HFN ending), and you bet I'll be waiting for the next book. It's my first read from the author, but definitely interested in reading more.
Thank you to the author and the Behind the Lens shared world team for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
Check CWs before reading
This was a fun one to read! I really enjoyed the established love/hate relationship between Vahn and Emma, and how through the pages they worked around it and got together. Throw that in with the mafia vibes, and my interest was piqued.
It's a quick read - the shortest in the series so far - but gives you just enough to want to keep reading, waiting for the plot twist you just know is coming, even if you don't pick exactly what it'll be.
There's great banter and back-and-forth goodness between these two, and the tension is definitely there. I enjoyed that Vahn is also in the adult industry, albeit in a different way to Emma, even though they work for the same company.
Do be aware it does end on a bit of an abrupt cliffhanger (don't worry, it's a HFN ending), and you bet I'll be waiting for the next book. It's my first read from the author, but definitely interested in reading more.
Thank you to the author and the Behind the Lens shared world team for the eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
May 19, 2025
Amazing!!!!!
We are back with book 5 in the Behind The Lens series. This is Crown Jewels by T.L. Hodel and it was ah-mazing. It's addicting from the first page, I couldn't put it down until I was finished! The story, plot line, and characters are fantastic. While it can be read as a standalone, you do get to see glimpses and mentions of previous characters that hold this series together.
I love Emma. She is there for her brother, helping him out as she is all he has. What she didn't expect was her brothers best friend.
Vahn was intense. He wanted what he wanted and didn't care who was in the way. He is fierce and loyal, and very much she is mine dont touch her vibes.
These two are great together. I loved the built-up tension and angst. The betrayal and secrets. It all comes together beautifully.
We are back with book 5 in the Behind The Lens series. This is Crown Jewels by T.L. Hodel and it was ah-mazing. It's addicting from the first page, I couldn't put it down until I was finished! The story, plot line, and characters are fantastic. While it can be read as a standalone, you do get to see glimpses and mentions of previous characters that hold this series together.
I love Emma. She is there for her brother, helping him out as she is all he has. What she didn't expect was her brothers best friend.
Vahn was intense. He wanted what he wanted and didn't care who was in the way. He is fierce and loyal, and very much she is mine dont touch her vibes.
These two are great together. I loved the built-up tension and angst. The betrayal and secrets. It all comes together beautifully.
May 19, 2025
His obsession with the virgin
Emma is a people pleaser who realizes she doesn't even know who the real her is anymore.
Vahn is hiding from his place in life and in hiding he found his obsession in the form of his best friend's little sister. He has obligations back home so he refuses to act on his feeling.
When Emma is invited to be May in the calendar shoot she realizes she is going to need a costar and Vahn is the only one she can trust that position too.
This book is a lot of sexual tension leading up to the good stuff. But it is worth the wait because they are fire together.
All of the stories in the Behind The Lens series have been really good. This one had a lot more background than the actual stuff at Behind the Lense but that didn't take away from it at all.
Emma is a people pleaser who realizes she doesn't even know who the real her is anymore.
Vahn is hiding from his place in life and in hiding he found his obsession in the form of his best friend's little sister. He has obligations back home so he refuses to act on his feeling.
When Emma is invited to be May in the calendar shoot she realizes she is going to need a costar and Vahn is the only one she can trust that position too.
This book is a lot of sexual tension leading up to the good stuff. But it is worth the wait because they are fire together.
All of the stories in the Behind The Lens series have been really good. This one had a lot more background than the actual stuff at Behind the Lense but that didn't take away from it at all.
May 20, 2025
May Madness Over Emma
TL Hodel has outdone herself with her new release, “Crown Jewels”. The exciting May addition to ‘Behind the Lens’ also marks a thrilling beginning for the next generation of Hodel’s Mafia romance saga, ‘The Order of Ravens and Wolves’. Excited for more captivating bully romances featuring Verity, Asher & Archer, Trina, Junior, and Colton!
In “Crown Jewels,” we meet Vahn, the enigmatic Mafia prince who has traded in his familiar duties for college life. His obsession with Emma, a sweet, naive history major, beautifully explores the tension of being drawn to the forbidden, his best friend’s little sister. Their chemistry sizzles, leaving readers yearning for more as we land on a happy-for-now. Hoping for more of this steamy couple in future installments of the next-gen TORW!
TL Hodel has outdone herself with her new release, “Crown Jewels”. The exciting May addition to ‘Behind the Lens’ also marks a thrilling beginning for the next generation of Hodel’s Mafia romance saga, ‘The Order of Ravens and Wolves’. Excited for more captivating bully romances featuring Verity, Asher & Archer, Trina, Junior, and Colton!
In “Crown Jewels,” we meet Vahn, the enigmatic Mafia prince who has traded in his familiar duties for college life. His obsession with Emma, a sweet, naive history major, beautifully explores the tension of being drawn to the forbidden, his best friend’s little sister. Their chemistry sizzles, leaving readers yearning for more as we land on a happy-for-now. Hoping for more of this steamy couple in future installments of the next-gen TORW!
May 13, 2025
Crown Jewels is book five in the Behind the Lens Series.
This was an intense story between Vahn and Emma. Vahn is hiding the secret about who he really is and trying not to act on his possessive feelings toward Emma. He is obsessive when it comes to her but he doesn't think he can have her, so he doesn't get too close. He is smug and pushes her away by being vulgar and rude to her. But he does this because he wants something he cannot have.
I feel we will have more to this story, as I feel it ended more on a happy for now, instead of a HEA. We need to see what is going on with Emma's brother as well as see if they can overcome any obstacles his father might put in their path. It was a hot and intense ride.
This was an intense story between Vahn and Emma. Vahn is hiding the secret about who he really is and trying not to act on his possessive feelings toward Emma. He is obsessive when it comes to her but he doesn't think he can have her, so he doesn't get too close. He is smug and pushes her away by being vulgar and rude to her. But he does this because he wants something he cannot have.
I feel we will have more to this story, as I feel it ended more on a happy for now, instead of a HEA. We need to see what is going on with Emma's brother as well as see if they can overcome any obstacles his father might put in their path. It was a hot and intense ride.
May 17, 2025
This is the 5th book in this behind the lens series. They are all by different authors but they all have one thing in common the main characters are cam people. Some are guys and some are girls. In this case there is both. Vahn was the MMC and he actually met Emma at college. She literally ran into him. He treated her like she was nothing. She told him he didn’t need to be rude and she picked up her stuff and left. He didn’t think he would see her again but he was so wrong. He ended up meeting her brother Mitch that day and they were fast friends and moved in to his and Emma’s place. Vahn liked her but with his family it was easier to keep her at arms length but he couldn’t do it anymore and he told her how he felt. Great book
June 2, 2025
I feel a little crazy reading all the positive reviews on this but I nearly DNF'ed it (only kept going because it was so short I thought maybe it would be worth it to finish - it was not.) Reading the other reviews, I think maybe the issue is that I didn't realize this was a second generation series and I hadn't read the previous books in this series (because it said it could be a standalone.) As a standalone, I frankly hated it. The FMC was somehow a SW and also painfully innocent and naive and the FMC was mean to her and hot and cold, but... not in a fun way. And then they go from hating each other to "in love" in like 4 pages. I've definitely been so invested in a character's family/larger series to ignore issues with a single book, so maybe that's what's happening, but if you are like me and not already invested in these people, avoid this book.
For the record, I've ready other things by the author and enjoyed them, so I think it was just this book for me. There were also some major editing/proofreading issues throughout, including the very first paragraph. I know it happens, but it was fairly egregious.
For the record, I've ready other things by the author and enjoyed them, so I think it was just this book for me. There were also some major editing/proofreading issues throughout, including the very first paragraph. I know it happens, but it was fairly egregious.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2025
Emma, young naive cam girl, has not had an easy life. Living with her older gambling addict brother Micah and his best friend, hot, adult film star, king a$$ Vahn, hasn’t been easy but it works. Vahn is an antagonistic jerk most of the time but she can’t figure out if she hates him or wants him.
Vahn is obsessed with Emma and doesn’t know what to do - he is on a short leash and time is running out. Can he make her his? What will happen when Emma finds out all his secrets? Is the king of kings going to accept what Vahn wants? You’re going to have to read this one and the next to find out. Can’t wait!
Vahn is obsessed with Emma and doesn’t know what to do - he is on a short leash and time is running out. Can he make her his? What will happen when Emma finds out all his secrets? Is the king of kings going to accept what Vahn wants? You’re going to have to read this one and the next to find out. Can’t wait!
May 18, 2025
This is the first book I have read from T.L. Hodel. Crown Jewels is book five of The Behind the Lens multi-author series. I didn't want to put the book down at all. My attention was kept from page one to the end. Anger for her brother's behavior. Relief when Vahn came to the rescue, I figured he would. Then ugh when the book ends on a cliffhanger. I can't wait for the next installment to arrive.
Emma had a rough life growing up and isn't sure who she really is. Vahn had a privileged life with strings attached. He was instalove with Emma even when he acted like he hated her. Emma was attracted to him, but thought he hated her.
Emma had a rough life growing up and isn't sure who she really is. Vahn had a privileged life with strings attached. He was instalove with Emma even when he acted like he hated her. Emma was attracted to him, but thought he hated her.
May 19, 2025
TWO CAMS FOR THE PRICE OF ONE!
Another Behind the Lens installment leads us to celebrate Victoria Day as our FMC, Emma is a history major who is naïve and innocent and a people pleaser, kind of works for the cam industry! Our MMC, Vahn has a history and secrets of his own and it's only a matter of time and circumstances before these two collide in a scene to cause even the most chaste to blush. I enjoyed the writing and the story, even if it went to quickly. The characters are interesting and have a chemistry that simmers behind the banter. The ending obviously will lead to more stories from T.L. Hodel in an already established created world.
Another Behind the Lens installment leads us to celebrate Victoria Day as our FMC, Emma is a history major who is naïve and innocent and a people pleaser, kind of works for the cam industry! Our MMC, Vahn has a history and secrets of his own and it's only a matter of time and circumstances before these two collide in a scene to cause even the most chaste to blush. I enjoyed the writing and the story, even if it went to quickly. The characters are interesting and have a chemistry that simmers behind the banter. The ending obviously will lead to more stories from T.L. Hodel in an already established created world.
May 19, 2025
The tension between Emma and Vahn was absolutely phenomenal! Vahn had an eff it moment, and it was *chef's kiss* plus Emma's "show me" moment.
These two are my favorite story of the Behind the Lens collection so far!
While things did happen (kind of), this was definitely a slow burn. I was here for every single page of it. Emma and Vahn started off as more of the secondary storyline, while Emma busting her butt to protect and care for her brother took the lead.
After an inexcusable event occurs, the switch on the story flips.
I laughed so many times in this book. Absolutely loved it! I need more!
These two are my favorite story of the Behind the Lens collection so far!
While things did happen (kind of), this was definitely a slow burn. I was here for every single page of it. Emma and Vahn started off as more of the secondary storyline, while Emma busting her butt to protect and care for her brother took the lead.
After an inexcusable event occurs, the switch on the story flips.
I laughed so many times in this book. Absolutely loved it! I need more!
May 20, 2025
The Knight and The Virgin
This is the fifth book released in the Behind the Lens shared world. I feel like the author already had this story in mind and then sho horned it into the Behind the Lens world. There definitely wasn’t as much focus on the camming as previous books in the shared world. I still really enjoyed it though. I love a good mafia man/virgin girl storyline and this does not disappoint. There is deception, secrets, touch her and die vibes and spice. This ends on a cliffhanger which further supports my theory that this author was going to write this story with or without this shared world. Hopefully the next book doesn’t take too long to come out.
This is the fifth book released in the Behind the Lens shared world. I feel like the author already had this story in mind and then sho horned it into the Behind the Lens world. There definitely wasn’t as much focus on the camming as previous books in the shared world. I still really enjoyed it though. I love a good mafia man/virgin girl storyline and this does not disappoint. There is deception, secrets, touch her and die vibes and spice. This ends on a cliffhanger which further supports my theory that this author was going to write this story with or without this shared world. Hopefully the next book doesn’t take too long to come out.
May 20, 2025
I’m really looking forward to the next part of this book! I can’t decide if Vahn is the perfect match for Emma or if I just want him to take a hike! I’m so curious about the whole secret society angle. Will Vahn get what he wants, or is Emma going to run for the hills?
This short read is fantastic! I love the blend of that over-the-top male confidence along with Emma’s sweet and innocent energy. It’s awesome that Emma is a cam girl but still has that lack of experience with men—talk about adding some interesting layers to her character! Those contrasting sides of her personality make the story all the more fun to dive into!
This short read is fantastic! I love the blend of that over-the-top male confidence along with Emma’s sweet and innocent energy. It’s awesome that Emma is a cam girl but still has that lack of experience with men—talk about adding some interesting layers to her character! Those contrasting sides of her personality make the story all the more fun to dive into!
May 21, 2025
Enemies? to Lovers, Brother’s best friends
Here we are, the May shoot. Emma is given the opportunity to be one of the calendar models.
She’s been taking care of everyone else’s feelings her whole life, especially her brother who has a horrible habit. Enter the brother’s best friend, the jerk that is nothing but rude to her. Till everything changes.
Secrets, lies, and so much more. This ends in a sort of cliffhanger way.
I loved the storyline concept and the characters. Story wasn’t too long, didn’t drag, and had the right amount of spice. I look forward to where it goes in the future which I am guessing the author will do in a future book in this world.
Here we are, the May shoot. Emma is given the opportunity to be one of the calendar models.
She’s been taking care of everyone else’s feelings her whole life, especially her brother who has a horrible habit. Enter the brother’s best friend, the jerk that is nothing but rude to her. Till everything changes.
Secrets, lies, and so much more. This ends in a sort of cliffhanger way.
I loved the storyline concept and the characters. Story wasn’t too long, didn’t drag, and had the right amount of spice. I look forward to where it goes in the future which I am guessing the author will do in a future book in this world.
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