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Thanks to Rachel on TikTok and Instagram (fitteacherrachel), I’ve had the Madison Kate series by Tate James on my TBR for months. After reading Tangled Up, I dove into the Tate James series headfirst. In one sitting, or really one night laying in bed, I read the entire first book. The next two nights were the same. I didn’t sleep. Instead, I read an entire book.
This series pulled me in so fast, and I paused reading the fourth book for a couple of weeks while I was in the moving process. But really, I just didn’t want the series to end. I don’t think I’ve felt this sad about finishing a series since reading the final Harry Potter book. And that, if nothing else, should tell you something about how much I enjoyed this series.
However, the Madison Kate series is not for you if… different things are not for you. Dad, Grandma, other family members – this is your sign to stop reading. Pretend you never saw this post, and don’t start searching the title online. I repeat – stop reading. You’ve been warned!
The Series (the basics)
The Madison Kate series is a reverse harem story with major alpha males and a lot of enemies to lovers vibes.
If you have no idea what a reverse harem (RH) is, it’s the exact opposite of a harem (no shit). In this case, there is one female protagonist, Kate, and multiple men that she is involved with. Instead of her having to choose between her love interests, she remains in relationships with each man. All of the men are aware of each other’s relationships with the female. In regards to the spicy scenes, there is traditional male/female scenes as well as other combinations.
I have never read anything like this, even in my extensive dives into the fan fiction world. So, I didn’t have anything to compare this series to, and I’m so glad for that. If you are interested in reading a super spicy book with 4 strong characters, the Madison Kate series is a great place to start. Just be aware when you start.
Hate by Tate James
In this post, we’re going to talk specifically about the first two books in the 4-book series, Hate and Liar. There will a post soon that covers the other two books, Fake and Kate.
The beginning of the first book throws you into the action immediately. Even the ‘slow’ parts are chock full of drama and spice. Steele, Kody, and Archer are the ultimate bad boys. They’re alpha males in every sense of the word. You know you should fear them, that you shouldn’t want to be around them. But… hot damn. I’ve always been a sucker for the mafia romance stories. Now, I’ve suddenly developed a thing for biker gang stories too. The fact that the trio are the “good guys” makes them even more appealing.
When I began the first book, I immediately felt a connection to Kody, especially during the Riot Night scenes. Because of how Steele was introduced during Riot Night, I initially didn’t think he would be as prominent in the story. Archer is just… Archer. There’s no better way to describe him. Even though he’s not the ‘best’ in the first book, there’s just something about him that pulls you in.
Looking back on the beginning of the series, the first book seems so ‘far away’ from the rest of the series. So much happens so quickly. While I enjoyed reading Hate, (again, I read it in one night) the series only gets better from there. It becomes more intense, more lust-filled, more spice, and more dark.
Liar by Tate James
spoilers for book 1 ahead!
After the intense ending of Hate, Liar picks up two weeks later. Kody, Steele, and Archer are waiting for Madison Kate’s release from the hospital. Archer lost his debut UFC fight. But not because of MK slipping steroids in his drinks. He was distracted after she woke up screaming in fear of him.
Book 2 of the series is even more addicting than the first. Archer is still an ass, except for a little bit at the end. Which of course happens and then he goes back to being an ass. But honestly, it makes the overall plot of the series better. Just trust me on that on. But, things with Madison Kate, Kody, and Steele heat up. I mean… holy shit. If you know, you know.
Liar is filled with even more incidents involving her stalker and her potential killer. But my favorite part of this book was the development in her relationships with the guys. You can’t help but fall for them. And yet, they are still hiding things from Madison Kate. Even knowing this, and them being very clear with her that they are not telling her something, you still want them. In more ways than one. 😉
The final scene of the book left me with my mouth hanging open. In the course of 2 books you go from being terrified of Zan D’Ath to trusting him more than any of the other characters. I didn’t see that one coming. But, I also love this odd protective thing he’s got going on with Madison Kate. It’s… cute? It sounds so weird to say. If you’re still debating reading the series, just do it. Each book gets better and better. I can’t wait to read the spin-offs and other books written by Tate James now that I’ve read this entire series.
So, do you think you’ll read the Madison Kate series? If you do, or if you already have, leave your thoughts in the comments below!
This sounds like such a good series. I mean, if you got through the first book in a day, it must be good. I love a story where you just can’t put the book down xx
Hannah | https://luxuryblush.co.uk/
I’m obsessed! I’ve already reread it! If you’re into RH or similar types of books, I highly recommend it!