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The Challenge Series Box Set
One girl. Five men. A deserted paradise island. What would you do?
From award-winning author Lily Harlem, the complete box set of the hugely popular contemporary reverse harem series THE CHALLENGE. (For mature readers only!)
CASTAWAYS - Book #1
Olivia Bailey is up for The Challenge. Why the heck wouldn't she be? With mariner qualifications piled high, engineering experience to rival someone twice her age, she's ready to take on the mighty Pacific Ocean and win.
But what about her fellow crew? Five guys, four nationalities. A billionaire's heir who likes to take charge in every aspect of life, an outback expert with a heart-stopping smile, a Spanish chef with mouthwatering moves and sexy twins who reveal themselves slowly, until it matters, then they act fast.
An adventure was what Olivia wanted, it's certainly what she gets. Because things at sea happen in a heartbeat, friendships grow, tempers heat and desire flares. But what about when it all upends? When the unexpected happens? Will they pull together, or will fear drag the crew of Temptress apart?
WITHIN THIS BOXED SET...
#1 Castaways
#2 Tearaways
#3 Runaways
#4 Stowaways
#5 Breakaways
*This boxed set is cheaper than purchasing THE CHALLENGE novels alone*
From award-winning author Lily Harlem, the complete box set of the hugely popular contemporary reverse harem series THE CHALLENGE. (For mature readers only!)
CASTAWAYS - Book #1
Olivia Bailey is up for The Challenge. Why the heck wouldn't she be? With mariner qualifications piled high, engineering experience to rival someone twice her age, she's ready to take on the mighty Pacific Ocean and win.
But what about her fellow crew? Five guys, four nationalities. A billionaire's heir who likes to take charge in every aspect of life, an outback expert with a heart-stopping smile, a Spanish chef with mouthwatering moves and sexy twins who reveal themselves slowly, until it matters, then they act fast.
An adventure was what Olivia wanted, it's certainly what she gets. Because things at sea happen in a heartbeat, friendships grow, tempers heat and desire flares. But what about when it all upends? When the unexpected happens? Will they pull together, or will fear drag the crew of Temptress apart?
WITHIN THIS BOXED SET...
#1 Castaways
#2 Tearaways
#3 Runaways
#4 Stowaways
#5 Breakaways
*This boxed set is cheaper than purchasing THE CHALLENGE novels alone*
1217 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2018
234 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Lily Harlem
241 books683 followersLily Harlem is an award-winning, USA Today & Amazon Bestselling Author of sexy romances.
She lives in the UK and writes for several publishing houses including HarperCollins, Dragonblade Publishing, Evernight and Stormy Night Publications. She also features in numerous UK and US anthologies, some of which all proceeds go to charity.
Her books are a mixture of full length novels and short stories, some are one offs, some are sequels or part of a series. What they all have in common are colourful characters travelling on everyone’s favourite journey — falling in love. Oh, and the bedroom door is always left wide open so you get to experience every kink and gasp!
Sign up to Lily's newsletter to get a FREE ebook of your choice. Details on her website.
She lives in the UK and writes for several publishing houses including HarperCollins, Dragonblade Publishing, Evernight and Stormy Night Publications. She also features in numerous UK and US anthologies, some of which all proceeds go to charity.
Her books are a mixture of full length novels and short stories, some are one offs, some are sequels or part of a series. What they all have in common are colourful characters travelling on everyone’s favourite journey — falling in love. Oh, and the bedroom door is always left wide open so you get to experience every kink and gasp!
Sign up to Lily's newsletter to get a FREE ebook of your choice. Details on her website.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 7, 2019
Had it’s good parts
All in all a pretty good story. Parts of it dragged and seemed irrelevant to the story line. But characters are good. Story line ok.
All in all a pretty good story. Parts of it dragged and seemed irrelevant to the story line. But characters are good. Story line ok.
June 16, 2018
Read this series when it came out as a bundle and I actually did not finish all the books. I won’t attribute the DNF to the author but to my own personal preference. So I am giving this 3 stars despite not finishing the series.
There were extremely few grammatical errors which is a big plus. I liked the effort for diversity in the harem. My big issue is with the Spanish in the books....because it was done in italics I had a hard time determining if the author had written “Si” or “Sí”. Looks like a small issue, however that í is the difference between the character saying “yes” or “if” lol.
Now, as to why I DNF.....Its honestly because I felt there was no actual relationship building. It had a lot of potential. However, instead of spending the effort into creating this modern day harem relationship, the author literally had all the guys agree to share the girl, but WE don’t see them come to this conclusion, and this happens within the first few chapters of the first book. There are no struggles, no real issues that lead to the guys coming to this consensus. For a contemporary RH, this was just not even remotely believable.
I loved the idea of the groups adventures, but it could all have used more concentration on the dynamic of the group, the individuals, and them growing together. So needless to say, by book 3 I was pretty much done. There really didn’t seem to be anything worth continuing for since it had all basically been the same since chapter 1 of book 1.
I do want to say that this will in no way keep me from checking out a different book from this author. While I don’t think RH was her forte, I’m willing to see if something more conventional is.
There were extremely few grammatical errors which is a big plus. I liked the effort for diversity in the harem. My big issue is with the Spanish in the books....because it was done in italics I had a hard time determining if the author had written “Si” or “Sí”. Looks like a small issue, however that í is the difference between the character saying “yes” or “if” lol.
Now, as to why I DNF.....Its honestly because I felt there was no actual relationship building. It had a lot of potential. However, instead of spending the effort into creating this modern day harem relationship, the author literally had all the guys agree to share the girl, but WE don’t see them come to this conclusion, and this happens within the first few chapters of the first book. There are no struggles, no real issues that lead to the guys coming to this consensus. For a contemporary RH, this was just not even remotely believable.
I loved the idea of the groups adventures, but it could all have used more concentration on the dynamic of the group, the individuals, and them growing together. So needless to say, by book 3 I was pretty much done. There really didn’t seem to be anything worth continuing for since it had all basically been the same since chapter 1 of book 1.
I do want to say that this will in no way keep me from checking out a different book from this author. While I don’t think RH was her forte, I’m willing to see if something more conventional is.
September 18, 2019
Loved reading The Challenge series box set by Lily Harlem.
I have read a few RH books and this one was the best so far. Lily has done a wonderful job of bringing in a whole lot of adventure and romance into the story.
Olivia and her five Alphas were a treat to get lost in. It takes them from the Pacific to the island they were stranded on, a little bit of drama at sea and on the island with a few more heart stopping incidents would have made it even more exciting. I would have liked to read a bit more about how each one of them Raul, Harry, Evan, Mason and Lucas fell in love with Olivia.
The cross-country ride on the motorbikes was trilling to read. The time on the berry farm and meeting Anya gave a good twist to the story line.
From LA to Africa to Australia was quite a journey which kept me engrossed and I could not put the book down. I liked the way Olivia built her relationship with each of her men. And how even the men bonded with each other. The love they shared was so unique.
Even though this was a RH book it was different. It turned out to be a nice adventurous romantic story. The personality of each character was portrayed beautifully. By the time the story came to an end it was like I knew each one of them personally.
I would love to learn how they break the news of their arrangement to their individual parents, clearing the confusion between the in-laws. And would also like to read some more about the twins. Can't wait to read Book 6 in the series.
I have read a few RH books and this one was the best so far. Lily has done a wonderful job of bringing in a whole lot of adventure and romance into the story.
Olivia and her five Alphas were a treat to get lost in. It takes them from the Pacific to the island they were stranded on, a little bit of drama at sea and on the island with a few more heart stopping incidents would have made it even more exciting. I would have liked to read a bit more about how each one of them Raul, Harry, Evan, Mason and Lucas fell in love with Olivia.
The cross-country ride on the motorbikes was trilling to read. The time on the berry farm and meeting Anya gave a good twist to the story line.
From LA to Africa to Australia was quite a journey which kept me engrossed and I could not put the book down. I liked the way Olivia built her relationship with each of her men. And how even the men bonded with each other. The love they shared was so unique.
Even though this was a RH book it was different. It turned out to be a nice adventurous romantic story. The personality of each character was portrayed beautifully. By the time the story came to an end it was like I knew each one of them personally.
I would love to learn how they break the news of their arrangement to their individual parents, clearing the confusion between the in-laws. And would also like to read some more about the twins. Can't wait to read Book 6 in the series.
May 26, 2018
I enjoy reading RH stories if they are done well. And I am happy to report that this series had everything a good RH should haven
For me it is important that there is time to form a relationship not just between each guy and the female lead, but also between the guys themselves. Each characters bring something special and unique to the group. in this series Olivia has a different relationship and bond with each guys and the relationships evolved in a natural rhythm. There was no rush.
And i enjoyed the actual stores themselves and loved that they took part all over the world in different circumstances. , it is fast paced, full of action, funny and sexy moment. What more can you ask for.?
December 16, 2019
Absolutely Fantastic!
You must read this KU boxed set. I loved it, and you will, too. Our main character Olivia has joined The Challenge. And what a challenge her life will become as she falls deeper in love with not just one guy but five!
I read these books straight through, no stopping, no supplemental books. The course of these six lives together become an epic adventure that travels the globe and faces one difficulty after another. But what really endeared them to me, besides the inventive sexy , hot sex, was the family dynamic they developed along the way. True love built amongst everyone in the group.
Lovely story. Now, I am going to read the sequel from the guys perspectives! Ya hoo!
You must read this KU boxed set. I loved it, and you will, too. Our main character Olivia has joined The Challenge. And what a challenge her life will become as she falls deeper in love with not just one guy but five!
I read these books straight through, no stopping, no supplemental books. The course of these six lives together become an epic adventure that travels the globe and faces one difficulty after another. But what really endeared them to me, besides the inventive sexy , hot sex, was the family dynamic they developed along the way. True love built amongst everyone in the group.
Lovely story. Now, I am going to read the sequel from the guys perspectives! Ya hoo!
January 20, 2021
How to handle a harem - for women!
Oh, I’m in binge-reader heaven! I’ve taken a 3-day mini staycation to read Lily Harlem’s box set, The Challenge. Five fabulous and sexy novels tell the remarkable story of Olivia, the sailing aficionado and talented engineer/mechanic, who wins a spot on a sailing challenge team. She sets out, radiating prickly feminist energy; five novels, six lovers, one breakup, three more charity challenges, three orphans, and one home-birth later... HEA is hard-won and there are no guarantees, but Olivia, her husbands, and their children are home, settled, and solidly together. I laughed, cried, cheered, and darn near melted all the way through. FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC!!!
Oh, I’m in binge-reader heaven! I’ve taken a 3-day mini staycation to read Lily Harlem’s box set, The Challenge. Five fabulous and sexy novels tell the remarkable story of Olivia, the sailing aficionado and talented engineer/mechanic, who wins a spot on a sailing challenge team. She sets out, radiating prickly feminist energy; five novels, six lovers, one breakup, three more charity challenges, three orphans, and one home-birth later... HEA is hard-won and there are no guarantees, but Olivia, her husbands, and their children are home, settled, and solidly together. I laughed, cried, cheered, and darn near melted all the way through. FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC!!!
February 20, 2019
Couldn't put it down!
I am so happy that I got the box set, once I started reading I couldn't stop, literally! I loved reading such a strong no nonsense FMC and loved the dynamic of the group. I wish they had been stranded on the island a bit longer and faced a bit more drama, but that is only cause I loved seeing how they worked together as a unit to overcome everything. I hope if/when book 6 comes out we get to see the guys explaining things to their families and some sort of gathering to celebrate the kids birth.
I am so happy that I got the box set, once I started reading I couldn't stop, literally! I loved reading such a strong no nonsense FMC and loved the dynamic of the group. I wish they had been stranded on the island a bit longer and faced a bit more drama, but that is only cause I loved seeing how they worked together as a unit to overcome everything. I hope if/when book 6 comes out we get to see the guys explaining things to their families and some sort of gathering to celebrate the kids birth.
September 3, 2018
This Series is awesome
Where do I start with this review? OMG can you say HOT? I read every book in 2 days, I hated putting them down just to go get a drink! Holy hell, 5 hot guys and 1 sexy as hell girl and the hottest sex scenes I could imagine. This Series had me laughing, rolling my eyes, panting and whimpering and wiggling in my chair. I don't do spoilers so I suggest anyone who sees this review heed my words,this is hotter than hot and I want more please!
Where do I start with this review? OMG can you say HOT? I read every book in 2 days, I hated putting them down just to go get a drink! Holy hell, 5 hot guys and 1 sexy as hell girl and the hottest sex scenes I could imagine. This Series had me laughing, rolling my eyes, panting and whimpering and wiggling in my chair. I don't do spoilers so I suggest anyone who sees this review heed my words,this is hotter than hot and I want more please!
September 21, 2021
Warm fuzzies mixed with hot men
This was a feel good story with tons of romance and steamy bedroom scenes. It wasn't over the top crazy with stalkers and kidnappers and such that books with billionaires often have. It was much more down to earth. There was a pretty good balance between sweet romanticism and hot sex. It is the perfect book for anyone wanting a lighthearted, feel good, romantic reverse harem.
This was a feel good story with tons of romance and steamy bedroom scenes. It wasn't over the top crazy with stalkers and kidnappers and such that books with billionaires often have. It was much more down to earth. There was a pretty good balance between sweet romanticism and hot sex. It is the perfect book for anyone wanting a lighthearted, feel good, romantic reverse harem.
October 16, 2021
Enamored with all these characters!
One thousand pages wasn't enough once you've fallen in love with Olivia and her crew of sexy men!! They're all so different from each other, but bonded together by love and commitment. Olivia is such a lucky lady! Her harem would do anything for her and to her for her pleasure!
Lily Harlem is one of my favorite authors. I'm on to read The Boys!!
One thousand pages wasn't enough once you've fallen in love with Olivia and her crew of sexy men!! They're all so different from each other, but bonded together by love and commitment. Olivia is such a lucky lady! Her harem would do anything for her and to her for her pleasure!
Lily Harlem is one of my favorite authors. I'm on to read The Boys!!
April 27, 2019
Loved this series
Hot scenes with sexy hunks but also an amazing story lines. Would love to see the sixth book and read it all from the men's point of view
Also would love to catch up with the fly in the mix Paul as well as the mother's in laws
Would highly recommend a brilliant read
Thank you Lily
Hot scenes with sexy hunks but also an amazing story lines. Would love to see the sixth book and read it all from the men's point of view
Also would love to catch up with the fly in the mix Paul as well as the mother's in laws
Would highly recommend a brilliant read
Thank you Lily
May 4, 2018
Loved this series
Liked all the characters the realistic qualities to much of the book without killong the fantasy. An unconventional relationship told in a believably unconventional way.
Liked all the characters the realistic qualities to much of the book without killong the fantasy. An unconventional relationship told in a believably unconventional way.
May 9, 2018
Love these books! Did not want to put any of them down. Olivia and her men have so many adventures. Lily did a spectacular job writing a reverse harem. You can see each personality and the individual relationships they have. I'm excited to read more of her work.
September 19, 2018
Great Adventures
I absolutely love this story. The adventures are great and it ended on a high note. Great writing. Well worth a read and the authors good morning post on Facebook are my favorite start of each day!!
I absolutely love this story. The adventures are great and it ended on a high note. Great writing. Well worth a read and the authors good morning post on Facebook are my favorite start of each day!!
July 22, 2020
Quick fun contemporary RH
There are many facets to the story that make it fun to read. The characters are well relayed and their dynamics are good. The overall story arcs only really work because one character is a well loved son of a Billionaire. Still a fun read
There are many facets to the story that make it fun to read. The characters are well relayed and their dynamics are good. The overall story arcs only really work because one character is a well loved son of a Billionaire. Still a fun read
May 11, 2023
An epic tale
I loved the series of books. What an adventure. It was so well written that I was able to join the adventure and watch them work their way to the wonderful mixed family that they now have. A wonderful story.
I loved the series of books. What an adventure. It was so well written that I was able to join the adventure and watch them work their way to the wonderful mixed family that they now have. A wonderful story.
June 27, 2018
Intense Fun
From La to Africa to Oz this book sends you on an emotional and erotic roller coaster on every page. The character development is consistent and realistic.
From La to Africa to Oz this book sends you on an emotional and erotic roller coaster on every page. The character development is consistent and realistic.
January 31, 2019
Great read
Couldn't put this book down! Love the relationship between Olivia and the guys. Want to find out more about the twins and see what Olivia tell her parents.
Couldn't put this book down! Love the relationship between Olivia and the guys. Want to find out more about the twins and see what Olivia tell her parents.
dnf
February 19, 2021It felt like there was cheating in the third book, stopped reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2022
Love love love
I could not put the series down. So many wonderful twists and turns. I would love to punch Paul in his face myself though.
I could not put the series down. So many wonderful twists and turns. I would love to punch Paul in his face myself though.
December 9, 2024
I think she said the word "reckon" 19 times in three pages. DNF, never will either.
March 9, 2022
Holy hotness! This series is awesome! It's one of my favorite series to binge read over and over. This is a contemporary, action-packed, fast-paced, but slow to medium-burn reverse harem romance. It has plenty of exciting, fun, and sexy action. These books are full of adventures as the crew of Temptress travel the world, work together, fall in love, and deal with more than just the original challenge. I thoroughly enjoyed having so many different characters and situations in the story.
I like how all the main characters are imperfect people, but make a great team. Olivia is a smart, hard-working, beautiful main character who has a quick temper. Harry is a billionaire's heir with a Twitter addiction. Evan is a sexy Aussie who hates flying. Raul is a gourmet Spanish chef who hates sharks, and sometimes gets English words confused. Mason is a hot Scot who sometimes has bad timing. His identical twin, Lucas is a sweet, romantic virgin who rarely speaks.
The sexy heat level is different with each guy, too. The love scenes range from sweet kisses, to frenzied passion, to steamy make up sex, to nuclear explosion. There are multiple combinations, a little bit of M/M, and a few kinky scenes, too.
While it has a Happily Ever After ending, there are some loose ends that could easily lead to a sequel. I like that there is some room for my imagination to fill in the blanks. There is also a spin-off, The Boys, which is told from each of the men's perspectives. The stories are all insanely good.
I like how all the main characters are imperfect people, but make a great team. Olivia is a smart, hard-working, beautiful main character who has a quick temper. Harry is a billionaire's heir with a Twitter addiction. Evan is a sexy Aussie who hates flying. Raul is a gourmet Spanish chef who hates sharks, and sometimes gets English words confused. Mason is a hot Scot who sometimes has bad timing. His identical twin, Lucas is a sweet, romantic virgin who rarely speaks.
The sexy heat level is different with each guy, too. The love scenes range from sweet kisses, to frenzied passion, to steamy make up sex, to nuclear explosion. There are multiple combinations, a little bit of M/M, and a few kinky scenes, too.
While it has a Happily Ever After ending, there are some loose ends that could easily lead to a sequel. I like that there is some room for my imagination to fill in the blanks. There is also a spin-off, The Boys, which is told from each of the men's perspectives. The stories are all insanely good.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews