B07HJYTRMD
4.31
3,020,990
Dec 07, 2018
Dec 07, 2018
really liked it
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: My oldest daughter has been on a CoHo kick and this is the book that she claims has been her favorite so far. I’ll admit tha 3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: My oldest daughter has been on a CoHo kick and this is the book that she claims has been her favorite so far. I’ll admit that I started this a while ago and didn’t get into it and just left it for later. I think it was after I read The Girl in the Mist and experienced how much that was a flop and after seeing some (vague now that I think back on it) similarities, I really wasn’t feeling like going through that again. But! My daughter kept encouraging me to try this again and I’m happy I did. I kept texting her my predictions, and I was right about two of them in the end. It was still interesting to get through and I just needed to push past that 30% mark to really get into it. Like usual, I hated the ending…but I’ve come to expect that from this author. I also felt like the relationship was a second story to the other features of the story — which is fine! It just made it feel like the connection was too insta for my liking once it did happen. Overall, I liked this but didn’t love it like my daughter did.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lowen’s story. She is in a bad place after taking care of and losing her mother for a year and she gets an offer she can’t refuse to be a ghostwriter for a famous author that was in a car accident and in an almost comatose state. When she gets to the author’s home and starts going through her stuff, she finds an autobiographical manuscript that reveals some interesting things that she can’t help but read while also falling in love with the author’s husband. There are some big reveals, some sexy times, and some big shocks that leave her with a HFN ending.
**I’m putting this spoiler tag because I’d recommend that readers go in blind like I did, but still want to provide the rest of my review for those that need the spoilers (like I sometimes do too)** (view spoiler)[
Point Of View (POV): This was told in Lowen’s POV (with sections of Verity’s manuscript in her voice)
Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I thought it took a while to get interesting. I never skimmed though.
Instalove: No, but an instant connection.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Jeremy. I liked how he took care of others, but I still feel confused if that was his true character.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Lowen. I liked her for the most part. I did want her to communicate a little better.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes (view spoiler)[The H is married to OW (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ Descriptive scenes through the h reading the H’s wife’s writings (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: Yes (view spoiler)[The H is married to OW when with the h (hide spoiler)]
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[Loss of loved one (on page) (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This ends in an ambiguous way that is up for interpretation. Not as much closure as I would’ve liked, and what I would call a HFN ending.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers
(view spoiler)[
- Does have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does Not have the h or H pushing away
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse by mc
- Does Not have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: My oldest daughter has been on a CoHo kick and this is the book that she claims has been her favorite so far. I’ll admit tha 3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: My oldest daughter has been on a CoHo kick and this is the book that she claims has been her favorite so far. I’ll admit that I started this a while ago and didn’t get into it and just left it for later. I think it was after I read The Girl in the Mist and experienced how much that was a flop and after seeing some (vague now that I think back on it) similarities, I really wasn’t feeling like going through that again. But! My daughter kept encouraging me to try this again and I’m happy I did. I kept texting her my predictions, and I was right about two of them in the end. It was still interesting to get through and I just needed to push past that 30% mark to really get into it. Like usual, I hated the ending…but I’ve come to expect that from this author. I also felt like the relationship was a second story to the other features of the story — which is fine! It just made it feel like the connection was too insta for my liking once it did happen. Overall, I liked this but didn’t love it like my daughter did.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Lowen’s story. She is in a bad place after taking care of and losing her mother for a year and she gets an offer she can’t refuse to be a ghostwriter for a famous author that was in a car accident and in an almost comatose state. When she gets to the author’s home and starts going through her stuff, she finds an autobiographical manuscript that reveals some interesting things that she can’t help but read while also falling in love with the author’s husband. There are some big reveals, some sexy times, and some big shocks that leave her with a HFN ending.
**I’m putting this spoiler tag because I’d recommend that readers go in blind like I did, but still want to provide the rest of my review for those that need the spoilers (like I sometimes do too)** (view spoiler)[
Point Of View (POV): This was told in Lowen’s POV (with sections of Verity’s manuscript in her voice)
Overall Pace of Story: Alright. I thought it took a while to get interesting. I never skimmed though.
Instalove: No, but an instant connection.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Jeremy. I liked how he took care of others, but I still feel confused if that was his true character.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Lowen. I liked her for the most part. I did want her to communicate a little better.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes (view spoiler)[The H is married to OW (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ Descriptive scenes through the h reading the H’s wife’s writings (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: Yes (view spoiler)[The H is married to OW when with the h (hide spoiler)]
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[Loss of loved one (on page) (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This ends in an ambiguous way that is up for interpretation. Not as much closure as I would’ve liked, and what I would call a HFN ending.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers
(view spoiler)[
- Does have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does Not have the h or H pushing away
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse by mc
- Does Not have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
0
1
Jul 03, 2022
Jul 03, 2022
Jan 17, 2019
Kindle Edition
B07B3H1J1Y
4.31
8,644
Feb 25, 2018
Feb 25, 2018
really liked it
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was enjoyable, but it's not one of my favorites in the series. I liked all three of the mcs and I enjoyed their connec 3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was enjoyable, but it's not one of my favorites in the series. I liked all three of the mcs and I enjoyed their connection to each other -- but I think with the amazing stories that came before it, there was a lot to live up to. I think that it still was a good book and this author remains as one of my all-time favorites.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Sia, Cowboy and Hush's story. Sia is the VP's sister and is hidden away on her ranch from the man that was part of the Mexican cartel and had held her captive. Word got out that that man is looking for her, and Cowboy and Hush get assigned to be with her on the ranch to keep her safe. The more time they spend together, the stronger the connection they feel towards one another is. There is some major baggage that they have to work though, some sexy times, and some suspenseful moments...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Sia, Cowboy and Hush's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, they all take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 4.5 stars. Cowboy. I really liked him. I appreciated how he cared for Sia and Hush, and how he was the light to their darkness.
H rating: 4 stars. Hush. I liked him. My heart broke for all that he went through.
h rating: 4 stars. Sia. I liked her. I appreciated how strong she was regardless of what all had happened to her.
Sadness level: Low, I didn't need any tissues but others said they did.
Push/Pull: Yes (view spoiler)[One of the Hs push away because of emotional baggage. The other H and the h are the main pursuers of the relationship. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. (view spoiler)[MFM threesome, anal sex, and doubled penetration. The MM do not do anything sexual to each other (hide spoiler)]
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[The man that the h was with last held her captive and comes around again. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Not really. Once they get together they stay together.
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[ Violence/human trafficking/murder/KKK/extreme racism (on page), mc with epilepsy, and witnessing parents murder (through memories). (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had alright closure, but I wanted to have more. I would call this a HFN ending. I would've liked a little more concrete commitment for the characters, or at least a farther glimpse into their future. Maybe we'll see more of them in the next book/s 🤷🏻♀️
Safety: This one is probably either Safe with exception or Not Safe for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does have one of the Hs pushing away
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse by mcs
- Does Not have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: This was enjoyable, but it's not one of my favorites in the series. I liked all three of the mcs and I enjoyed their connec 3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was enjoyable, but it's not one of my favorites in the series. I liked all three of the mcs and I enjoyed their connection to each other -- but I think with the amazing stories that came before it, there was a lot to live up to. I think that it still was a good book and this author remains as one of my all-time favorites.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Sia, Cowboy and Hush's story. Sia is the VP's sister and is hidden away on her ranch from the man that was part of the Mexican cartel and had held her captive. Word got out that that man is looking for her, and Cowboy and Hush get assigned to be with her on the ranch to keep her safe. The more time they spend together, the stronger the connection they feel towards one another is. There is some major baggage that they have to work though, some sexy times, and some suspenseful moments...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Sia, Cowboy and Hush's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, they all take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 4.5 stars. Cowboy. I really liked him. I appreciated how he cared for Sia and Hush, and how he was the light to their darkness.
H rating: 4 stars. Hush. I liked him. My heart broke for all that he went through.
h rating: 4 stars. Sia. I liked her. I appreciated how strong she was regardless of what all had happened to her.
Sadness level: Low, I didn't need any tissues but others said they did.
Push/Pull: Yes (view spoiler)[One of the Hs push away because of emotional baggage. The other H and the h are the main pursuers of the relationship. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. (view spoiler)[MFM threesome, anal sex, and doubled penetration. The MM do not do anything sexual to each other (hide spoiler)]
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[The man that the h was with last held her captive and comes around again. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Not really. Once they get together they stay together.
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[ Violence/human trafficking/murder/KKK/extreme racism (on page), mc with epilepsy, and witnessing parents murder (through memories). (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had alright closure, but I wanted to have more. I would call this a HFN ending. I would've liked a little more concrete commitment for the characters, or at least a farther glimpse into their future. Maybe we'll see more of them in the next book/s 🤷🏻♀️
Safety: This one is probably either Safe with exception or Not Safe for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does have one of the Hs pushing away
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse by mcs
- Does Not have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
Mar 05, 2018
Mar 05, 2018
Feb 20, 2018
Kindle Edition
4.21
3,666
Oct 14, 2017
Oct 17, 2017
really liked it
4 Stars
**PLEASE NOTE: This was a hard one to rate without the use of spoiler tags. ALL of these spoiler tags are holding SIGNIFICANT SPOILERS and PLE 4 Stars
**PLEASE NOTE: This was a hard one to rate without the use of spoiler tags. ALL of these spoiler tags are holding SIGNIFICANT SPOILERS and PLEASE don't click on them unless you are okay with certain things being SPOILED**
Overall Opinion: I read this super fast because it had me sucked in from the beginning! I was intrigued by all three characters, and I liked them all for different reasons. If you have a problem with hate-to-love-you type relationships, this probably isn't the books for you. If you like that sort of thing (like I do) then you should definitely check this out! Cyber bullying is such a hot topic right now, and since I have 4 kiddos I know that the reality of cyber bullying is very scary. I thought that the author put forth a unique story that she executed well. Is it full of unicorns and ranbows? No. Does it address hard topics and have the H abuse the h emotionally at times? Yes. But it also felt real and it made me root for these two to get their HEA and super happy when they got it.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I'm going to keep this vague if hopes of not ruining it. This is Courtney and Rome's story. Courtney finds herself in a bad position with Rome's twin sister, Raven, but she cannot fight the intrigue she feels towards both the siblings. After a tragic event, Courtney's life is forever changed and she becomes a target of Rome's hate. Rome struggles with his feelings for Courtney, but he finds himself unable to leave her alone. There are some sad moments, some hot sexy times, and some big secrets revealed...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Courtney and Rome's POV (and one section in Raven's POV).
Overall Pace of Story: Good. The ending felt a little too abrupt for my liking, but otherwise I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, they've known each other for years.
H rating: 4 stars. Rome. I liked him. He was a grade-A jerk to the h but I also understood why he was and felt for him. I feel like I probably wasn't supposed to lile him as much as I did...but what can I say, I like the flawed heroes 🤷🏻♀️
h rating: 3.5 stars. Courtney. I felt bad for her circumstances, but I also wanted her to be stronger at times (especially with Whitney).
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes (view spoiler)[ The H pushes the h away by being cruel to her. The h also pushes away at one point. I would say that the H is the main pursuer of the relationship. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. Some erotic asphyxiation and rough sex.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: No (view spoiler)[ They both claim to be clean, but they do not use protection. I don't remember any mention of the H's previous practices. The h is not on birth control (view spoiler)[and this results in an unexpected pregnancy (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[There is an OM that makes a scenario to seem like the h was cheating on the H and it causes drama. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes, but not in the usual ways (view spoiler)[ The h is raped when an OM forces his co€k in her mouth and the H walks in on it. There isn't also a scene where the h masturbates with the H's sister over a messaging app. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes (view spoiler)[They are separated for about 4 months, but there was no mention or suggestion of other partners during this time. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[Bullying/cyberbullying/catfishing (on page), rape by coercion/rape/assault/murder/suicide (on page), domestic violence (on page), statutory rape (off page - through recollections in journal), the h felt sexual attraction and love towards the H's twin sister (on page), depression/cutting (on page), and unexpected pregnancy (on page). (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had pretty good closure with what I would call a HEA (view spoiler)[married with babies (hide spoiler)]. The ending still felt a little abrupt to me though.
How I got it: I paid the $3.99 on amazon for it.
Safety: This one is probably either Safe with exception or Not Safe for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does have both the H and h pushing away
- Does have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
**PLEASE NOTE: This was a hard one to rate without the use of spoiler tags. ALL of these spoiler tags are holding SIGNIFICANT SPOILERS and PLE 4 Stars
**PLEASE NOTE: This was a hard one to rate without the use of spoiler tags. ALL of these spoiler tags are holding SIGNIFICANT SPOILERS and PLEASE don't click on them unless you are okay with certain things being SPOILED**
Overall Opinion: I read this super fast because it had me sucked in from the beginning! I was intrigued by all three characters, and I liked them all for different reasons. If you have a problem with hate-to-love-you type relationships, this probably isn't the books for you. If you like that sort of thing (like I do) then you should definitely check this out! Cyber bullying is such a hot topic right now, and since I have 4 kiddos I know that the reality of cyber bullying is very scary. I thought that the author put forth a unique story that she executed well. Is it full of unicorns and ranbows? No. Does it address hard topics and have the H abuse the h emotionally at times? Yes. But it also felt real and it made me root for these two to get their HEA and super happy when they got it.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I'm going to keep this vague if hopes of not ruining it. This is Courtney and Rome's story. Courtney finds herself in a bad position with Rome's twin sister, Raven, but she cannot fight the intrigue she feels towards both the siblings. After a tragic event, Courtney's life is forever changed and she becomes a target of Rome's hate. Rome struggles with his feelings for Courtney, but he finds himself unable to leave her alone. There are some sad moments, some hot sexy times, and some big secrets revealed...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Courtney and Rome's POV (and one section in Raven's POV).
Overall Pace of Story: Good. The ending felt a little too abrupt for my liking, but otherwise I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, they've known each other for years.
H rating: 4 stars. Rome. I liked him. He was a grade-A jerk to the h but I also understood why he was and felt for him. I feel like I probably wasn't supposed to lile him as much as I did...but what can I say, I like the flawed heroes 🤷🏻♀️
h rating: 3.5 stars. Courtney. I felt bad for her circumstances, but I also wanted her to be stronger at times (especially with Whitney).
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes (view spoiler)[ The H pushes the h away by being cruel to her. The h also pushes away at one point. I would say that the H is the main pursuer of the relationship. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. Some erotic asphyxiation and rough sex.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: No (view spoiler)[ They both claim to be clean, but they do not use protection. I don't remember any mention of the H's previous practices. The h is not on birth control (view spoiler)[and this results in an unexpected pregnancy (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[There is an OM that makes a scenario to seem like the h was cheating on the H and it causes drama. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes, but not in the usual ways (view spoiler)[ The h is raped when an OM forces his co€k in her mouth and the H walks in on it. There isn't also a scene where the h masturbates with the H's sister over a messaging app. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes (view spoiler)[They are separated for about 4 months, but there was no mention or suggestion of other partners during this time. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[Bullying/cyberbullying/catfishing (on page), rape by coercion/rape/assault/murder/suicide (on page), domestic violence (on page), statutory rape (off page - through recollections in journal), the h felt sexual attraction and love towards the H's twin sister (on page), depression/cutting (on page), and unexpected pregnancy (on page). (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had pretty good closure with what I would call a HEA (view spoiler)[married with babies (hide spoiler)]. The ending still felt a little abrupt to me though.
How I got it: I paid the $3.99 on amazon for it.
Safety: This one is probably either Safe with exception or Not Safe for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does have both the H and h pushing away
- Does have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
Oct 31, 2017
Oct 31, 2017
Oct 30, 2017
4.23
20,755
Sep 15, 2013
Jan 02, 2016
liked it
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I think I did it again 🤦🏻♀️ I had my expectations up way too high for this! I remember being so intruiged by this couple in 3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I think I did it again 🤦🏻♀️ I had my expectations up way too high for this! I remember being so intruiged by this couple in the King series, and that along with all the raving reviews -- I was convinced that this would be a winner for me. Don't get me wrong -- I didn't hate it or anything, but I also didn't love it. I thought it was just ok. I teared up a few times, but I was expecting this mega angstfest that had me feeling the feels like crazy...and that just didn't happen. I also didn't like the instalove feeling I got. I wanted more development of feelings going on, because I honestly didn't feel the connection enough to believe the jump into "love". I also would've liked to experience some more happy times with them! I would still call it a HEA, but I am frustrated that we went through so much trauma and dark times with the two and got just a few happy times and a meh ending for it! There is a novella, Dark Needs, out that might give us a little more of that, but I'm not all that eager to jump into it tbh 🤷🏻♀️
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Abby and Jake's story. Abby has had a horrible string of bad luck when her grandma dies, she finds out that she might have to enter foster care again, and that their house is in the process of being foreclosed. She meets Jake when she is sleeping in her grandma's truck at his dad's junkyard. They are both intruiged by each other, but have a lot of other things going on. After bumping into one another a few more times, Abby ends up moving in with Jake. Jake takes his time with Abby since they both have messed up pasts, and they fall in love. There are some past demons that are revealed, some traumatic events, a separation, and a few sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This was told mainly in Abby's POV with the prologue and epilogue in Jake's. I think it would've contributed a lot to have his pov more often, so we could understand his thoughts and motives better.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. The ending felt a little abrupt, but I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: Kind of. I felt like the feelings came out of nowhere tbh. The H claims that it was love at first sight later on in the story.
H rating: 4 stars. Jake. I liked him. I liked how he was protective and patient he was with the h.
h rating: 4 stars. Abby. I liked her. I appreciated her strength and how she fought for herself.
Sadness level: Moderate. I teared up a bit, but I never needed any tissues.
Push/Pull: Yes (view spoiler)[The H pushes away at one point, but I would also say that he is the main pursuer of the relationship. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not that many scenes and not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes (view spoiler)[ Mentions of condoms being used, but I don't remember any mention of std statuses or previous practices for the H (the h was a virgin). There is mention that the OM did not use any protection when he raped the h. (hide spoiler)]
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[ There is an OM that is interested in the h and causes a good bit of drama for the couple. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Kind of (view spoiler)[There is a scene at the beginning where the h overhears the H getting a bj from OW. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes (view spoiler)[They are separated for ~4 years, but there was no mention or suggestion of other partners during this time. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes! (view spoiler)[ Child abuse and molestation (off page - but through graphic mentions/memories), homelessness (on page), loss of a parental figure/sibling (on and off page), alcoholic parent (on page), drug addicted parent (off page - through mentions), suicide of parent (off page - through graphic mentions), rape/assault (on page), unexpected pregnancy (on page), violence/murder (off page - through graphic mention), the h was a virgin, and ~5 year age difference between the H and h. (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had ok closure and what I would reluctantly call a HEA ending. There is a novella out that might give us a little more closure, but I'm not sure. I would've liked more time with them in this book experiencing their HEA, but we get a short epilogue instead (view spoiler)[They are married (hide spoiler)].
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers.
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with the H and OW
- Does have the H pushing the h away
- Does have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: I think I did it again 🤦🏻♀️ I had my expectations up way too high for this! I remember being so intruiged by this couple in 3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I think I did it again 🤦🏻♀️ I had my expectations up way too high for this! I remember being so intruiged by this couple in the King series, and that along with all the raving reviews -- I was convinced that this would be a winner for me. Don't get me wrong -- I didn't hate it or anything, but I also didn't love it. I thought it was just ok. I teared up a few times, but I was expecting this mega angstfest that had me feeling the feels like crazy...and that just didn't happen. I also didn't like the instalove feeling I got. I wanted more development of feelings going on, because I honestly didn't feel the connection enough to believe the jump into "love". I also would've liked to experience some more happy times with them! I would still call it a HEA, but I am frustrated that we went through so much trauma and dark times with the two and got just a few happy times and a meh ending for it! There is a novella, Dark Needs, out that might give us a little more of that, but I'm not all that eager to jump into it tbh 🤷🏻♀️
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Abby and Jake's story. Abby has had a horrible string of bad luck when her grandma dies, she finds out that she might have to enter foster care again, and that their house is in the process of being foreclosed. She meets Jake when she is sleeping in her grandma's truck at his dad's junkyard. They are both intruiged by each other, but have a lot of other things going on. After bumping into one another a few more times, Abby ends up moving in with Jake. Jake takes his time with Abby since they both have messed up pasts, and they fall in love. There are some past demons that are revealed, some traumatic events, a separation, and a few sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This was told mainly in Abby's POV with the prologue and epilogue in Jake's. I think it would've contributed a lot to have his pov more often, so we could understand his thoughts and motives better.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. The ending felt a little abrupt, but I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: Kind of. I felt like the feelings came out of nowhere tbh. The H claims that it was love at first sight later on in the story.
H rating: 4 stars. Jake. I liked him. I liked how he was protective and patient he was with the h.
h rating: 4 stars. Abby. I liked her. I appreciated her strength and how she fought for herself.
Sadness level: Moderate. I teared up a bit, but I never needed any tissues.
Push/Pull: Yes (view spoiler)[The H pushes away at one point, but I would also say that he is the main pursuer of the relationship. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not that many scenes and not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes (view spoiler)[ Mentions of condoms being used, but I don't remember any mention of std statuses or previous practices for the H (the h was a virgin). There is mention that the OM did not use any protection when he raped the h. (hide spoiler)]
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[ There is an OM that is interested in the h and causes a good bit of drama for the couple. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Kind of (view spoiler)[There is a scene at the beginning where the h overhears the H getting a bj from OW. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes (view spoiler)[They are separated for ~4 years, but there was no mention or suggestion of other partners during this time. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes! (view spoiler)[ Child abuse and molestation (off page - but through graphic mentions/memories), homelessness (on page), loss of a parental figure/sibling (on and off page), alcoholic parent (on page), drug addicted parent (off page - through mentions), suicide of parent (off page - through graphic mentions), rape/assault (on page), unexpected pregnancy (on page), violence/murder (off page - through graphic mention), the h was a virgin, and ~5 year age difference between the H and h. (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had ok closure and what I would reluctantly call a HEA ending. There is a novella out that might give us a little more closure, but I'm not sure. I would've liked more time with them in this book experiencing their HEA, but we get a short epilogue instead (view spoiler)[They are married (hide spoiler)].
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers.
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with the H and OW
- Does have the H pushing the h away
- Does have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
Aug 06, 2017
Aug 06, 2017
Aug 06, 2017
Kindle Edition
B01LYSRKUV
4.39
5,001
Nov 28, 2016
Nov 28, 2016
really liked it
4 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was a good ending to the duet. I appreciated how the story kept me sucked in and there was never a dull moment. Would I 4 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was a good ending to the duet. I appreciated how the story kept me sucked in and there was never a dull moment. Would I have liked more time with the h and H actually together? Yes. But that's just not the type of story this is. I would recommend this duet to anyone that likes the darker and more graphic romance books, because I think this was well done 👍🏻
Brief Summary of the Storyline: Again, I'll keep this vague in hopes of not ruining it. This is Jade's story. She is still trying to save her sister while dealing with the psychopath, Benny's, obsession with her. There is a lot of violence, a few sexy and sweet times, some big reveals...and she gets a HEA.
POV: This alternated between the h and H's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, they've already developed feelings by the time this book starts.
H rating: 4 stars. He was an awesome support system for the h, and I appreciated how much he cared for her.
h rating: 4 stars. Jade. I appreciated how she was strong, but also allowed herself to fall apart when needed and supported by the H.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[ The OM is still obsessed with the h. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ The h is with OM in a few descriptive scenes. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: Not IMO (view spoiler)[ The h was raped while taken captive while still with the H, but I wouldn't call that cheating. (hide spoiler)]
Separation: Yes (view spoiler)[They are separated shortly, and the h was with OM during this time against her will. There was no mention or suggestion that the H was with anyone else during this time. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[Extreme graphic violence/kidnapping/assault/rape/murder (on page), and (view spoiler)[unexpected pregnancy (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had a jump ahead epilogue and a HEA ending imo (view spoiler)[There is a scene at the very end that implies that the bad guy is still alive which reminded me strongly of This is Love, Baby. I never read past the first 2 books in that series and just accepted the HEA that was painted there before the big shock, so I think I'll follow my own lead there and do the same with this one 😉 (hide spoiler)].
How I got it: I got it with my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with the h and OM
- Does Not have the h or H pushing away
- Does have a short separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does have a HEA ending (see above) (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: This was a good ending to the duet. I appreciated how the story kept me sucked in and there was never a dull moment. Would I 4 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was a good ending to the duet. I appreciated how the story kept me sucked in and there was never a dull moment. Would I have liked more time with the h and H actually together? Yes. But that's just not the type of story this is. I would recommend this duet to anyone that likes the darker and more graphic romance books, because I think this was well done 👍🏻
Brief Summary of the Storyline: Again, I'll keep this vague in hopes of not ruining it. This is Jade's story. She is still trying to save her sister while dealing with the psychopath, Benny's, obsession with her. There is a lot of violence, a few sexy and sweet times, some big reveals...and she gets a HEA.
POV: This alternated between the h and H's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, they've already developed feelings by the time this book starts.
H rating: 4 stars. He was an awesome support system for the h, and I appreciated how much he cared for her.
h rating: 4 stars. Jade. I appreciated how she was strong, but also allowed herself to fall apart when needed and supported by the H.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[ The OM is still obsessed with the h. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ The h is with OM in a few descriptive scenes. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: Not IMO (view spoiler)[ The h was raped while taken captive while still with the H, but I wouldn't call that cheating. (hide spoiler)]
Separation: Yes (view spoiler)[They are separated shortly, and the h was with OM during this time against her will. There was no mention or suggestion that the H was with anyone else during this time. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[Extreme graphic violence/kidnapping/assault/rape/murder (on page), and (view spoiler)[unexpected pregnancy (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had a jump ahead epilogue and a HEA ending imo (view spoiler)[There is a scene at the very end that implies that the bad guy is still alive which reminded me strongly of This is Love, Baby. I never read past the first 2 books in that series and just accepted the HEA that was painted there before the big shock, so I think I'll follow my own lead there and do the same with this one 😉 (hide spoiler)].
How I got it: I got it with my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with the h and OM
- Does Not have the h or H pushing away
- Does have a short separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does have a HEA ending (see above) (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
Jun 23, 2017
Jun 23, 2017
Jun 23, 2017
Kindle Edition
unknown
4.20
918
unknown
Jan 30, 2017
really liked it
4 Stars
Overall Opinion: This had a familiar feel to it, as it has some similarities to the The Opportunist series IMO. Which isn’t necessarily a bad 4 Stars
Overall Opinion: This had a familiar feel to it, as it has some similarities to the The Opportunist series IMO. Which isn’t necessarily a bad thing! I was super into that series and really enjoyed it when I read it a while ago. I’m not huge on revenge type stories, but for some reason this sucked me in. It’s definitely not safe for the safety gang gals out there, and it definitely has the h doing some crazy and drastic things to get her true love back!! I’m enjoying it for now and I just hope that the next book, The Evolution of Ivy: Antidote, ends the duet with a bang!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I will keep this vague in hopes of not ruining it. This is mainly Ivy/Emily’s story. When younger, Ivy gets befriended by and falls in love with Brooks. Circumstances caused them to separate and when he returns she is no longer the same girl. He moves on and they are never the same. Ivy never forgot that love, and years later she makes some drastic changes and inserts herself into Brooks’s life. There is some conniving revenge going on, some sexy times, some big drama...and we get a cliffy.
POV: This alternated between Emily (mainly) and Brooks’s POV. There is one section in the H’s fiancé, Eliza’s, POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. There were a few times I skimmed, but I just wanted to get to the good stuff!
Instalove: No, but there are hints at “soulmate” type connection that comes back.
H rating: 3 stars. Brooks. I liked him ok, but I also was disappointed in him and his ability to turn a blind eye a lot.
h rating: 3.5 stars. Ivy/Emily. Man! She was kinda coo coo for Cocoa Puffs! I kinda liked that about her too though 😉
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes (view spoiler)[ The H pushes away when the h is disfigured when they are younger. He also pushes away when he is fighting his attractions and feelings for her while engaged to OW. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Ok. There are some ok scenes -- but there aren’t any scenes with the h and H together.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[ The H is engaged to OW. This same OW tormented the h when younger, and she is seeking revenge and to win back the H. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ There are a few descriptive scenes with the h and OM, and there is also a few scenes with the H and OW. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: Yes (view spoiler)[The H develops feelings and is strongly attracted to the h while engaged to OW. They do kiss while he is still with OW. The OW also cheated on the H (hide spoiler)]
Separation: No. The h and H aren’t “together” for the timeframe in this book.
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[ Assault/disfigurement/poverty (off page - through memories), cheating (on and off page), and abortion (side character-on page). (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had ok closure for a cliffhanger. You definitely need to read the next book in the duet to get full closure for the couple.
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers
(view spoiler)[
- Does have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scenes with the h and OM and H and OW.
- Does have the H pushing the h away
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse by mcs
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does Not have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: This had a familiar feel to it, as it has some similarities to the The Opportunist series IMO. Which isn’t necessarily a bad 4 Stars
Overall Opinion: This had a familiar feel to it, as it has some similarities to the The Opportunist series IMO. Which isn’t necessarily a bad thing! I was super into that series and really enjoyed it when I read it a while ago. I’m not huge on revenge type stories, but for some reason this sucked me in. It’s definitely not safe for the safety gang gals out there, and it definitely has the h doing some crazy and drastic things to get her true love back!! I’m enjoying it for now and I just hope that the next book, The Evolution of Ivy: Antidote, ends the duet with a bang!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I will keep this vague in hopes of not ruining it. This is mainly Ivy/Emily’s story. When younger, Ivy gets befriended by and falls in love with Brooks. Circumstances caused them to separate and when he returns she is no longer the same girl. He moves on and they are never the same. Ivy never forgot that love, and years later she makes some drastic changes and inserts herself into Brooks’s life. There is some conniving revenge going on, some sexy times, some big drama...and we get a cliffy.
POV: This alternated between Emily (mainly) and Brooks’s POV. There is one section in the H’s fiancé, Eliza’s, POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. There were a few times I skimmed, but I just wanted to get to the good stuff!
Instalove: No, but there are hints at “soulmate” type connection that comes back.
H rating: 3 stars. Brooks. I liked him ok, but I also was disappointed in him and his ability to turn a blind eye a lot.
h rating: 3.5 stars. Ivy/Emily. Man! She was kinda coo coo for Cocoa Puffs! I kinda liked that about her too though 😉
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes (view spoiler)[ The H pushes away when the h is disfigured when they are younger. He also pushes away when he is fighting his attractions and feelings for her while engaged to OW. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Ok. There are some ok scenes -- but there aren’t any scenes with the h and H together.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[ The H is engaged to OW. This same OW tormented the h when younger, and she is seeking revenge and to win back the H. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ There are a few descriptive scenes with the h and OM, and there is also a few scenes with the H and OW. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: Yes (view spoiler)[The H develops feelings and is strongly attracted to the h while engaged to OW. They do kiss while he is still with OW. The OW also cheated on the H (hide spoiler)]
Separation: No. The h and H aren’t “together” for the timeframe in this book.
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[ Assault/disfigurement/poverty (off page - through memories), cheating (on and off page), and abortion (side character-on page). (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had ok closure for a cliffhanger. You definitely need to read the next book in the duet to get full closure for the couple.
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers
(view spoiler)[
- Does have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scenes with the h and OM and H and OW.
- Does have the H pushing the h away
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse by mcs
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does Not have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
Oct 14, 2017
Oct 14, 2017
Feb 04, 2017
ebook
B01J0GGS8M
4.32
6,579
Sep 26, 2016
Sep 26, 2016
really liked it
4 Stars
Overall Opinion: I went into this after being inspired by a GR friend doing the same thing to try to get myself out of a book funk. I'm hopin 4 Stars
Overall Opinion: I went into this after being inspired by a GR friend doing the same thing to try to get myself out of a book funk. I'm hoping it will, as I am anxious to continue on this freaky journey to find out what happens! It's definitely not for the faint of heart, because it definitely has graphic violence and some pretty sick stuff. The romance takes a backseat to the suspense, which I normally hate -- but I'm so sucked into finding out how it'll end that I don't even care tbh! On to the next and hopefully I'll find out why everyone went from this book to loving Benny in the next...because as of now I can't think of any reason as to why someone would...🤔
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I'm going to keep this vague because I don't want to ruin it. This is Jade's story. She was abducted along with her sister, Macy, when they were young girls. Jade ends up escaping after 4 years with the psycho, Benny, who had an obsession with making her and her sister his little dolls. The story starts after she has become a police detective and is obsessed with finding her sister. Benny decides that enough is enough and he wants his "dirty little doll" back, and he starts leaving her clues as to how to find him. Jade works with her partner to try to solve cases and get closer to Benny, but he always seems to be one step ahead...
POV: This was mainly told in Jade's POV (with a few other POVs close to the end)
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of, but it's an extreme situation that I would understand if feelings develop quicker.
H rating: 4 stars. I appreciate how strong and protective he is of Jade and how he is supportive of her needs.
h rating: 4 stars. Jade. Man, oh man! I feel for her! She's had a rough time of it, but I admire her strength through it all.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull:Yes (view spoiler)[ The h does push away at one point to try to protect the H. They both pursue the relationship at times. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes, but not in the typical way (view spoiler)[ An OM shows up and causes a little drama for the h. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ There are graphic scenes with the h and two other men (completely separate scenes). (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: Not between mcs (view spoiler)[ The h was cheated on by OM (hide spoiler)]
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes! (view spoiler)[Extremely graphic violence/murder/rape/assault/kidnapping (on page - mostly through graphic memories), and loss of loved ones (on page). (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This ends on a cliffy! No closure yet -- but the next book, Pretty Lost Dolls, is already out.
How I got it: I got it with my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating by mcs
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with the h and 2 OM
- Does Not have the h pushing the H away
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: I went into this after being inspired by a GR friend doing the same thing to try to get myself out of a book funk. I'm hopin 4 Stars
Overall Opinion: I went into this after being inspired by a GR friend doing the same thing to try to get myself out of a book funk. I'm hoping it will, as I am anxious to continue on this freaky journey to find out what happens! It's definitely not for the faint of heart, because it definitely has graphic violence and some pretty sick stuff. The romance takes a backseat to the suspense, which I normally hate -- but I'm so sucked into finding out how it'll end that I don't even care tbh! On to the next and hopefully I'll find out why everyone went from this book to loving Benny in the next...because as of now I can't think of any reason as to why someone would...🤔
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I'm going to keep this vague because I don't want to ruin it. This is Jade's story. She was abducted along with her sister, Macy, when they were young girls. Jade ends up escaping after 4 years with the psycho, Benny, who had an obsession with making her and her sister his little dolls. The story starts after she has become a police detective and is obsessed with finding her sister. Benny decides that enough is enough and he wants his "dirty little doll" back, and he starts leaving her clues as to how to find him. Jade works with her partner to try to solve cases and get closer to Benny, but he always seems to be one step ahead...
POV: This was mainly told in Jade's POV (with a few other POVs close to the end)
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of, but it's an extreme situation that I would understand if feelings develop quicker.
H rating: 4 stars. I appreciate how strong and protective he is of Jade and how he is supportive of her needs.
h rating: 4 stars. Jade. Man, oh man! I feel for her! She's had a rough time of it, but I admire her strength through it all.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull:Yes (view spoiler)[ The h does push away at one point to try to protect the H. They both pursue the relationship at times. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes, but not in the typical way (view spoiler)[ An OM shows up and causes a little drama for the h. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ There are graphic scenes with the h and two other men (completely separate scenes). (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: Not between mcs (view spoiler)[ The h was cheated on by OM (hide spoiler)]
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes! (view spoiler)[Extremely graphic violence/murder/rape/assault/kidnapping (on page - mostly through graphic memories), and loss of loved ones (on page). (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This ends on a cliffy! No closure yet -- but the next book, Pretty Lost Dolls, is already out.
How I got it: I got it with my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one is probably Not Safe for most safety gang readers
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating by mcs
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with the h and 2 OM
- Does Not have the h pushing the H away
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
Jun 22, 2017
Jun 23, 2017
Sep 26, 2016
Kindle Edition
3.98
13,108
Aug 30, 2016
Aug 30, 2016
liked it
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: Well, I honestly am struggling on how to rate this one. Many other readers are loving this book, including some of my GR fri 3 Stars
Overall Opinion: Well, I honestly am struggling on how to rate this one. Many other readers are loving this book, including some of my GR friends, but I didn't love it. This is definitely NOT for my safety gals! I don't mind an "unsafe" book from time to time, so that wasn't my issue. I had some major issues with the pacing (see below section), the constant push/pull from the H, wanting the h to be stronger at the end, and there was an overall lack of some good grovel by the H. It kind of lost me at the last push from the H, because both characters did things that I didn't feel were redeemed in the end. I was, however, satisfied with the ending for once! But, I felt like there was a lot of wasted time between the h and H that was unnecessary and maybe put in just for the sake of having some angst. It did keep me intruiged, and I did enjoy it at times...so I'm going with a middle of the road rating @ 3 stars.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I can't really break this down without ruining it, but I'd say that this is more Alejandro's story than Lexi's. We meet Alejandro as a young teen when his father is starting to have him learn the ways of his criminal empire. We see how his loved ones struggle with how he is changing, and he has some traumatic events happen that just further him into becoming the cruel, unfeeling man that he is later in life. We meet Lexi, who is many years younger than him, and they have an instant connection. Through many years, they keep on meeting and cannot deny that connection. There are some violent and sad moments, some hot sexy times, and some major angst going on...will they get a HEA?
POV: This alternated between Lexi and Alejandro's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. This was one of my biggest issues with the book. I feel like it is realistic in that relationships as complex as these ones do not happen over a few months, so I did appreciate that aspect. I think I was just bothered by the constant time jumps! This relationship between the h and H is told over what has to be 20 years! It took them way too long to get their shit together IMO. I just felt like it was a waste tbh. It took me a while to get into this book too. I wouldn't say it was slow, but the first section (it's broken down into 4) was about the H as a young man getting into the life and his relationship with his first love. While it was nice to have this insight, I felt like it just went on too long and I was ready to meet the h (which we don't until part 2). I skimmed a little in that first section, but no other times.
Instalove: No. They take years to develop stronger feelings (but they do have a instant strong connection).
H rating: 3 stars. Alejandro. Hmmm....what to say about him?! He was hot. He was cruel and scary. He was lonely and damaged. He was a pretty complex character...
h rating: 3.5 stars. Lexi. I liked her attitude and how she gave sass to the H. She was a very strong character for the most part. I did want her to be stronger and make him grovel some more (especially towards the end) at times.
Sadness level: Low/moderate. I teared up a few times, but I never needed any tissues.
Push/Pull: Yes! (view spoiler)[ The H is constantly hot and cold. He pulls the h in and then pushes her away. This goes on up until the very end! They both pursue the relationship at times. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Moderate. They have some hot chemistry and scenes, but not so much that it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes. Condoms are mentioned. The H had only gone without with his first love and the h, and I don't remember any mention of her practices with the OM.
OW/OM drama: Yes, but not in the usual way (view spoiler)[The whole 1st section is the H with OW as a young man (his first and only love other than the h). She breaks his heart. The h is almost engaged to OM during one of their separations (view spoiler)[but he dies in car accident (hide spoiler)]. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ There are more than a couple scenes with H and OW. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: Not technically (view spoiler)[They are recently separated (after being together for ~3 years straight), but the h walks in on him getting a bj by OW (view spoiler)[that we later find out he did to push her away (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]
Separation:Yes (view spoiler)[Many separations. It is implied that the h only had relations with one other man (during their 10 year separation), but I was under the impression that the H had other partners during all their separations. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[Violence/killing, rape, loss of a parent, suicide, drug use by side character, child molestation, prostitution (side character), virgin h and manwhore H, and large age gap between h and H (20ish years?). (hide spoiler)]
Closure: The events leading up to the ending are a little shocking, so I'm going to put this with a spoiler tag... (view spoiler)[There was a great epilogue and HEA ending (hide spoiler)]
How I got it: I paid the $2.99 on Amazon.
Safety: I'd call this Not Safe for most of the safety gals.
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating (technically, but see above "cheating" spoiler)
- Does have more than 1 descriptive sex scene with H and OW
- Does have the H pushing the h away
- Does have many separations between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts IMO (see "sadness" section above)
- Does have a HEA ending. (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: Well, I honestly am struggling on how to rate this one. Many other readers are loving this book, including some of my GR fri 3 Stars
Overall Opinion: Well, I honestly am struggling on how to rate this one. Many other readers are loving this book, including some of my GR friends, but I didn't love it. This is definitely NOT for my safety gals! I don't mind an "unsafe" book from time to time, so that wasn't my issue. I had some major issues with the pacing (see below section), the constant push/pull from the H, wanting the h to be stronger at the end, and there was an overall lack of some good grovel by the H. It kind of lost me at the last push from the H, because both characters did things that I didn't feel were redeemed in the end. I was, however, satisfied with the ending for once! But, I felt like there was a lot of wasted time between the h and H that was unnecessary and maybe put in just for the sake of having some angst. It did keep me intruiged, and I did enjoy it at times...so I'm going with a middle of the road rating @ 3 stars.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I can't really break this down without ruining it, but I'd say that this is more Alejandro's story than Lexi's. We meet Alejandro as a young teen when his father is starting to have him learn the ways of his criminal empire. We see how his loved ones struggle with how he is changing, and he has some traumatic events happen that just further him into becoming the cruel, unfeeling man that he is later in life. We meet Lexi, who is many years younger than him, and they have an instant connection. Through many years, they keep on meeting and cannot deny that connection. There are some violent and sad moments, some hot sexy times, and some major angst going on...will they get a HEA?
POV: This alternated between Lexi and Alejandro's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. This was one of my biggest issues with the book. I feel like it is realistic in that relationships as complex as these ones do not happen over a few months, so I did appreciate that aspect. I think I was just bothered by the constant time jumps! This relationship between the h and H is told over what has to be 20 years! It took them way too long to get their shit together IMO. I just felt like it was a waste tbh. It took me a while to get into this book too. I wouldn't say it was slow, but the first section (it's broken down into 4) was about the H as a young man getting into the life and his relationship with his first love. While it was nice to have this insight, I felt like it just went on too long and I was ready to meet the h (which we don't until part 2). I skimmed a little in that first section, but no other times.
Instalove: No. They take years to develop stronger feelings (but they do have a instant strong connection).
H rating: 3 stars. Alejandro. Hmmm....what to say about him?! He was hot. He was cruel and scary. He was lonely and damaged. He was a pretty complex character...
h rating: 3.5 stars. Lexi. I liked her attitude and how she gave sass to the H. She was a very strong character for the most part. I did want her to be stronger and make him grovel some more (especially towards the end) at times.
Sadness level: Low/moderate. I teared up a few times, but I never needed any tissues.
Push/Pull: Yes! (view spoiler)[ The H is constantly hot and cold. He pulls the h in and then pushes her away. This goes on up until the very end! They both pursue the relationship at times. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Moderate. They have some hot chemistry and scenes, but not so much that it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes. Condoms are mentioned. The H had only gone without with his first love and the h, and I don't remember any mention of her practices with the OM.
OW/OM drama: Yes, but not in the usual way (view spoiler)[The whole 1st section is the H with OW as a young man (his first and only love other than the h). She breaks his heart. The h is almost engaged to OM during one of their separations (view spoiler)[but he dies in car accident (hide spoiler)]. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ There are more than a couple scenes with H and OW. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: Not technically (view spoiler)[They are recently separated (after being together for ~3 years straight), but the h walks in on him getting a bj by OW (view spoiler)[that we later find out he did to push her away (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]
Separation:Yes (view spoiler)[Many separations. It is implied that the h only had relations with one other man (during their 10 year separation), but I was under the impression that the H had other partners during all their separations. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[Violence/killing, rape, loss of a parent, suicide, drug use by side character, child molestation, prostitution (side character), virgin h and manwhore H, and large age gap between h and H (20ish years?). (hide spoiler)]
Closure: The events leading up to the ending are a little shocking, so I'm going to put this with a spoiler tag... (view spoiler)[There was a great epilogue and HEA ending (hide spoiler)]
How I got it: I paid the $2.99 on Amazon.
Safety: I'd call this Not Safe for most of the safety gals.
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating (technically, but see above "cheating" spoiler)
- Does have more than 1 descriptive sex scene with H and OW
- Does have the H pushing the h away
- Does have many separations between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts IMO (see "sadness" section above)
- Does have a HEA ending. (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
Sep 02, 2016
Sep 03, 2016
Aug 25, 2016
ebook
4.33
14,322
Jul 10, 2016
Jul 12, 2016
really liked it
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: I was worried that I would build up my expectations of this one a little too high and then be disappointed, so I put off r 3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: I was worried that I would build up my expectations of this one a little too high and then be disappointed, so I put off reading it for a while. Obviously I didn't last long though ;). I wouldn't say I was disappointed, but I also wasn't overly impressed either. I love this author and how she can create such diverse characters. She often takes characters that we don't care for and makes us sympathize and root for them in the end. So when I heard Rider's story was coming out, I knew it was right up her alley. I think my biggest complaint was that there was so much suspense and other things going on (which is completely understandable considering what they were all dealing with) and not enough romance. I felt like it was a little too instalove for me. While their interactions were sweet and touching at first, I just wanted more to understand their deep connection.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I'm going to keep this really brief because I don't want to ruin it...This is Harmony and Rider's story. They meet when they are both held captive at the cult commune. They form a bond through talking through their cell doors and eventually fall in love...and get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Harmony and Rider's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of. They connected instantly, but I felt like maybe it was their situation that propelled the process. I wanted to experience more of the development of feelings between them to make it more believable.
H rating: 4 stars. Rider. Poor Rider. I started to feel bad for him in Flame's story, because he was so brainwashed and alone -- so I'm not all that shocked that I felt for him in this one and ended up liking his character.
h rating: 4 stars. Harmony. I really liked her strength. She was in a terrible situation her whole life, but she never lost her spirit which is admirable.
Sadness level: Moderate. There are a few times that I choked up, but I never cried. I bet a lot of readers would though, because both of these characters go through some horrible things.
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Moderate/low. Not many scenes, and I felt like they were more to further their emotional connection rather than the physical act (or to be sexy).
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: No. No mentions of condoms, birth control or std status. The H was a virgin, and the h only had non-consensual sex.
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ There is a flashback of the h's that includes a rape scene with an OM. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[Violence, murder, rape, child molestation, child pornography, abuse, and captivity. (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had decent closure with what I would call a HFN ending. I feel like we will get some more of this couple in the next book, Damnable Grace, and hopefully some more closure for them.
How I got it: I paid the $3.99 on Amazon.
Safety: I'd say that this is probably Safe with exception for most readers.
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with h and OM in a flashback rape scene
- Does Not have the H or h pushing away
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does Not have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: I was worried that I would build up my expectations of this one a little too high and then be disappointed, so I put off r 3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: I was worried that I would build up my expectations of this one a little too high and then be disappointed, so I put off reading it for a while. Obviously I didn't last long though ;). I wouldn't say I was disappointed, but I also wasn't overly impressed either. I love this author and how she can create such diverse characters. She often takes characters that we don't care for and makes us sympathize and root for them in the end. So when I heard Rider's story was coming out, I knew it was right up her alley. I think my biggest complaint was that there was so much suspense and other things going on (which is completely understandable considering what they were all dealing with) and not enough romance. I felt like it was a little too instalove for me. While their interactions were sweet and touching at first, I just wanted more to understand their deep connection.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I'm going to keep this really brief because I don't want to ruin it...This is Harmony and Rider's story. They meet when they are both held captive at the cult commune. They form a bond through talking through their cell doors and eventually fall in love...and get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Harmony and Rider's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of. They connected instantly, but I felt like maybe it was their situation that propelled the process. I wanted to experience more of the development of feelings between them to make it more believable.
H rating: 4 stars. Rider. Poor Rider. I started to feel bad for him in Flame's story, because he was so brainwashed and alone -- so I'm not all that shocked that I felt for him in this one and ended up liking his character.
h rating: 4 stars. Harmony. I really liked her strength. She was in a terrible situation her whole life, but she never lost her spirit which is admirable.
Sadness level: Moderate. There are a few times that I choked up, but I never cried. I bet a lot of readers would though, because both of these characters go through some horrible things.
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Moderate/low. Not many scenes, and I felt like they were more to further their emotional connection rather than the physical act (or to be sexy).
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: No. No mentions of condoms, birth control or std status. The H was a virgin, and the h only had non-consensual sex.
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ There is a flashback of the h's that includes a rape scene with an OM. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes (view spoiler)[Violence, murder, rape, child molestation, child pornography, abuse, and captivity. (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had decent closure with what I would call a HFN ending. I feel like we will get some more of this couple in the next book, Damnable Grace, and hopefully some more closure for them.
How I got it: I paid the $3.99 on Amazon.
Safety: I'd say that this is probably Safe with exception for most readers.
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with h and OM in a flashback rape scene
- Does Not have the H or h pushing away
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does Not have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
Jul 20, 2016
Jul 20, 2016
Jul 10, 2016
unknown
3.45
117
2016
May 2016
DNF @ 72%
I couldn't continue. I found myself skimming more than actually reading, so I think that's a sure sign to call it quits. I'll break it down DNF @ 72%
I couldn't continue. I found myself skimming more than actually reading, so I think that's a sure sign to call it quits. I'll break it down with spoilers...
(view spoiler)[
The Good
Unique Take on the Captive Theme
At least I've never read a book that had this type of approach. It is based on a male mc, Callum, that comes home to visit his father after ~3 years (I think) to find out that his father has taken a sex slave, Leila. They both lost his mother 5 years prior, so he figures that his father has just lost his mind because of his grief -- especially because his father calls the h "Emmy" which was his nickname for the mom. I've read captivity book where there is the H that is in with the bad men, but ends up helping the h in the end -- but this is different because the H is an outsider to what has been going on (for at least 2 years). So, the fact that it was a different take on the whole captivity scene was good.
The Bad
Unbelievable Instalove
I know a lot of people are all about instalove, but I am usually not a fan. I can deal with mcs moving quickly as long as I understand why they have developed stronger feelings (or at least get to experience it). I couldn't deal with this. They don't say the "I love yous", but they are acting as though they are in love almost immediately. They only have a few interactions, and they never have anything happen that would make me believe the strong feelings are justified. With the h, the only thing I could think of was that I could attribute it to the fact that she's been held captive and is craving any kind of positive attention to the point that it is a kind of Stockholm syndrome by projecting it to the H instead of her captor. The H?!? I have no idea! Maybe it was just insta-super-strong-attraction-and-must-save-her going on, but I just didn't get it. He reacted to her as if he had strong feelings, and he didn't know her or have anything really to back it up IMO!
The H
Along with the instalove, he had weird interactions with side characters. He didn't seem like the sharpest tool in the shed. During a sex party of his dad's that he crashes, he notices that his uncle (who happens to be the chief of police) was visibly cringing and averting his eyes when the slaves were "performing" a sex act with each other for the crowd. Hello?!? Use that to your advantage! Talk to him, and feel him out! He might be an ally and help you save the girl!! There's also some interactions with a friend and a guy that helps him get the tracker off the h that I found myself rolling my eyes over. In every scene he has a beer or some other type of alcoholic beverage. Don't get me wrong -- I like to have some drinks on occasion, but what is that all about? Pretty much every scene?!?
The "Chemistry"
Or the lack of chemistry would be better worded. I didn't feel any connection to either characters, and I didn't feel their connection to each other either. I didn't necessarily like either one either.
The Ugly
The "Intimacy" and Rape
There were some cringe-worthy moments where the h was pretty desperate for the H to be intimate with her. I understand wanting physical affection, but getting all hot and bothered by him right after getting raped or abused in front a group of nasty men? Not so much. In my mind it was actually making the severity of her abuse not a big deal, and I thought that was rather insulting to victims of sex crimes. Don't get me wrong -- I've read captivity books where the h and H have sex. That's not my issue. My issue is that she was so desperate for it and all the H would say when he turned her down was "you'll think of him" then she would get pissy and hurt (and he wouldn't really further explain his reasoning). She is supposed to have been held captive for over 2 years and had been abused since her 2nd week there!! Someone that had gone through that trauma would have some type of reaction other than just being horny and wanting to jump all over a good looking man. Maybe I'm wrong...but I personally found the whole thing kind of offensive. Just FYI -- rape went on in detail up until I threw in my towel. I also figure that any man would have issues with a woman that had been intimate (even forced) with his own father. Right?!? I get wanting to save her, but he even saw his father raping her. Maybe I'm being super insensitive, but how can that not affect his attraction?
(hide spoiler)]
That's the just of my issues. Got it all off my chest and moving on to the next...
Oh! I'd say it is not safe ladies ;)
...more
I couldn't continue. I found myself skimming more than actually reading, so I think that's a sure sign to call it quits. I'll break it down DNF @ 72%
I couldn't continue. I found myself skimming more than actually reading, so I think that's a sure sign to call it quits. I'll break it down with spoilers...
(view spoiler)[
The Good
Unique Take on the Captive Theme
At least I've never read a book that had this type of approach. It is based on a male mc, Callum, that comes home to visit his father after ~3 years (I think) to find out that his father has taken a sex slave, Leila. They both lost his mother 5 years prior, so he figures that his father has just lost his mind because of his grief -- especially because his father calls the h "Emmy" which was his nickname for the mom. I've read captivity book where there is the H that is in with the bad men, but ends up helping the h in the end -- but this is different because the H is an outsider to what has been going on (for at least 2 years). So, the fact that it was a different take on the whole captivity scene was good.
The Bad
Unbelievable Instalove
I know a lot of people are all about instalove, but I am usually not a fan. I can deal with mcs moving quickly as long as I understand why they have developed stronger feelings (or at least get to experience it). I couldn't deal with this. They don't say the "I love yous", but they are acting as though they are in love almost immediately. They only have a few interactions, and they never have anything happen that would make me believe the strong feelings are justified. With the h, the only thing I could think of was that I could attribute it to the fact that she's been held captive and is craving any kind of positive attention to the point that it is a kind of Stockholm syndrome by projecting it to the H instead of her captor. The H?!? I have no idea! Maybe it was just insta-super-strong-attraction-and-must-save-her going on, but I just didn't get it. He reacted to her as if he had strong feelings, and he didn't know her or have anything really to back it up IMO!
The H
Along with the instalove, he had weird interactions with side characters. He didn't seem like the sharpest tool in the shed. During a sex party of his dad's that he crashes, he notices that his uncle (who happens to be the chief of police) was visibly cringing and averting his eyes when the slaves were "performing" a sex act with each other for the crowd. Hello?!? Use that to your advantage! Talk to him, and feel him out! He might be an ally and help you save the girl!! There's also some interactions with a friend and a guy that helps him get the tracker off the h that I found myself rolling my eyes over. In every scene he has a beer or some other type of alcoholic beverage. Don't get me wrong -- I like to have some drinks on occasion, but what is that all about? Pretty much every scene?!?
The "Chemistry"
Or the lack of chemistry would be better worded. I didn't feel any connection to either characters, and I didn't feel their connection to each other either. I didn't necessarily like either one either.
The Ugly
The "Intimacy" and Rape
There were some cringe-worthy moments where the h was pretty desperate for the H to be intimate with her. I understand wanting physical affection, but getting all hot and bothered by him right after getting raped or abused in front a group of nasty men? Not so much. In my mind it was actually making the severity of her abuse not a big deal, and I thought that was rather insulting to victims of sex crimes. Don't get me wrong -- I've read captivity books where the h and H have sex. That's not my issue. My issue is that she was so desperate for it and all the H would say when he turned her down was "you'll think of him" then she would get pissy and hurt (and he wouldn't really further explain his reasoning). She is supposed to have been held captive for over 2 years and had been abused since her 2nd week there!! Someone that had gone through that trauma would have some type of reaction other than just being horny and wanting to jump all over a good looking man. Maybe I'm wrong...but I personally found the whole thing kind of offensive. Just FYI -- rape went on in detail up until I threw in my towel. I also figure that any man would have issues with a woman that had been intimate (even forced) with his own father. Right?!? I get wanting to save her, but he even saw his father raping her. Maybe I'm being super insensitive, but how can that not affect his attraction?
(hide spoiler)]
That's the just of my issues. Got it all off my chest and moving on to the next...
Oh! I'd say it is not safe ladies ;)
...more
Notes are private!
1
May 18, 2016
May 19, 2016
May 15, 2016
4.08
4,870
Mar 29, 2016
Mar 29, 2016
really liked it
4 stars
Oh damn! I don't want to ruin it!!! The whole book was "wtf" after "wtf"! There is no way I can break it down in my usual review format, becau 4 stars
Oh damn! I don't want to ruin it!!! The whole book was "wtf" after "wtf"! There is no way I can break it down in my usual review format, because it would just give too much away. This'll have to do...
- Is this safe? Probably not
- Was there violence, gore, and rape again? Yes
- Did I enjoy it? Yes. I actually liked it for all the dark drama and sweetness in-between.
- Was there a happy ending? For the most part, yes. I know! Super vague! There is just no way that I can feel ok ruining it for readers.
If you really want to know, pm me and I'll break it down for you...but I'm happy I went in blind, because it wasn't at all what I expected the second book to be (in a good way). Sorry guys ;)
...more
Oh damn! I don't want to ruin it!!! The whole book was "wtf" after "wtf"! There is no way I can break it down in my usual review format, becau 4 stars
Oh damn! I don't want to ruin it!!! The whole book was "wtf" after "wtf"! There is no way I can break it down in my usual review format, because it would just give too much away. This'll have to do...
- Is this safe? Probably not
- Was there violence, gore, and rape again? Yes
- Did I enjoy it? Yes. I actually liked it for all the dark drama and sweetness in-between.
- Was there a happy ending? For the most part, yes. I know! Super vague! There is just no way that I can feel ok ruining it for readers.
If you really want to know, pm me and I'll break it down for you...but I'm happy I went in blind, because it wasn't at all what I expected the second book to be (in a good way). Sorry guys ;)
...more
Notes are private!
1
Apr 25, 2016
Apr 26, 2016
Apr 25, 2016
ebook
153331294X
9781533312945
153331294X
4.06
1,894
May 18, 2016
May 18, 2016
really liked it
3.75 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was an emotional read about the not so easy parts about love. When you truly love someone, you have to love their fa 3.75 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was an emotional read about the not so easy parts about love. When you truly love someone, you have to love their faults along with them. This is a really good example of the internal struggles a parent of a child with autism has to deal with, and for her to fall for a man that is struggling win his PTSD from being a POW and in combat situations was just downright tragic at times. But the saying "you don't choose who you love" rings true for this couple. I felt like it was an accurate portrayal at how hard love can be at times, and that it is not all unicorns and rainbows. I hate giving it a .75, but it wasn't quite 4 stars for me and it was better than 3.5. I think what mainly ruined it for me and made my rating so low was the ending (see below pace section).
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ellie and Jake story. They meet when Ellie crashes her car into a tree while checking him out in her rear view mirror. They keep on bumping into each other, and are both instantly drawn to one another. Eventually, the coincidences become planned events and they fall in love. There are some big obstacles that they have to get through to get their HEA -- but they do it!
POV: This alternated between Ellie and Jake POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I was happy with the epilogue, but I really dislike how a lot of authors are having the big conflict resolved in the last chapter before the epilogue! I want some time with them as a successful couple!! It just feels way too abrupt for my liking. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No. I felt like there was sufficient time to develop significant feelings.
H rating: 4 stars. Jake. He was so damaged and had been through so much that it was easy to give him a free pass with his push/pull behavior. At times I wanted to shake him though! I was happy with how he turned himself around and worked to be a better man for the h.
h rating: 4 stars. Ellie. I liked her, and mainly her inner strength. As a mother of a child on the autism spectrum, I related to her and understood where she was coming from in a lot of her inner dialogue. It makes me think that the author really did her research, or is a parent of a child on the spectrum as well.
Sadness level: Moderate. I needed some tissues on this one!
Push/Pull: Yes (view spoiler)[We get a good bit of pushing away from the H at first, and then after a tragic event the h starts to push away the H. I'd say that they both pursued at times, but the H was more of the pursuer. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Moderate. The scenes were more about the intimacy and furthering their connection rather than to just be sexy IMO.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: No. Condoms are not used. There is mention in inner dialogue that the H is clean -- but they never have a discussion about std status, birth control, or past practices that I remember. There is one scene where the H tells the h that they should use a condom, but she stops him and says she just wants to feel him.
OW/OM drama: Yes(view spoiler)[ The h is technically married and on the run from an abusive husband. He shows up and causes some drama. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes(view spoiler)[ The h decides that she needs to focus on her son (along with some other things), and pushes the H away. He pursues her and gets her back. No mention of other partners during separation. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes(view spoiler)[ Military combat/POW PTSD, autism, suicide/suicide attempts, alcoholism, loss of a side character, and domestic abuse (brief mention of attempted rape). (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had a cute jump ahead epilogue with a HEA ending. (See above pace section about abrupt ending)
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: Safe with exception
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does have the H pushing the h away, and then the h pushing him away
- Does have a ~2 month separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse between h and H, but to the h by her ex
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does have a HEA ending. (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: This was an emotional read about the not so easy parts about love. When you truly love someone, you have to love their fa 3.75 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was an emotional read about the not so easy parts about love. When you truly love someone, you have to love their faults along with them. This is a really good example of the internal struggles a parent of a child with autism has to deal with, and for her to fall for a man that is struggling win his PTSD from being a POW and in combat situations was just downright tragic at times. But the saying "you don't choose who you love" rings true for this couple. I felt like it was an accurate portrayal at how hard love can be at times, and that it is not all unicorns and rainbows. I hate giving it a .75, but it wasn't quite 4 stars for me and it was better than 3.5. I think what mainly ruined it for me and made my rating so low was the ending (see below pace section).
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ellie and Jake story. They meet when Ellie crashes her car into a tree while checking him out in her rear view mirror. They keep on bumping into each other, and are both instantly drawn to one another. Eventually, the coincidences become planned events and they fall in love. There are some big obstacles that they have to get through to get their HEA -- but they do it!
POV: This alternated between Ellie and Jake POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I was happy with the epilogue, but I really dislike how a lot of authors are having the big conflict resolved in the last chapter before the epilogue! I want some time with them as a successful couple!! It just feels way too abrupt for my liking. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No. I felt like there was sufficient time to develop significant feelings.
H rating: 4 stars. Jake. He was so damaged and had been through so much that it was easy to give him a free pass with his push/pull behavior. At times I wanted to shake him though! I was happy with how he turned himself around and worked to be a better man for the h.
h rating: 4 stars. Ellie. I liked her, and mainly her inner strength. As a mother of a child on the autism spectrum, I related to her and understood where she was coming from in a lot of her inner dialogue. It makes me think that the author really did her research, or is a parent of a child on the spectrum as well.
Sadness level: Moderate. I needed some tissues on this one!
Push/Pull: Yes (view spoiler)[We get a good bit of pushing away from the H at first, and then after a tragic event the h starts to push away the H. I'd say that they both pursued at times, but the H was more of the pursuer. (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Moderate. The scenes were more about the intimacy and furthering their connection rather than to just be sexy IMO.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: No. Condoms are not used. There is mention in inner dialogue that the H is clean -- but they never have a discussion about std status, birth control, or past practices that I remember. There is one scene where the H tells the h that they should use a condom, but she stops him and says she just wants to feel him.
OW/OM drama: Yes(view spoiler)[ The h is technically married and on the run from an abusive husband. He shows up and causes some drama. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes(view spoiler)[ The h decides that she needs to focus on her son (along with some other things), and pushes the H away. He pursues her and gets her back. No mention of other partners during separation. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes(view spoiler)[ Military combat/POW PTSD, autism, suicide/suicide attempts, alcoholism, loss of a side character, and domestic abuse (brief mention of attempted rape). (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had a cute jump ahead epilogue with a HEA ending. (See above pace section about abrupt ending)
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: Safe with exception
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does have the H pushing the h away, and then the h pushing him away
- Does have a ~2 month separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse between h and H, but to the h by her ex
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does have a HEA ending. (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
May 19, 2016
May 19, 2016
Apr 18, 2016
Paperback
1530784166
9781530784165
1530784166
3.97
32,046
Apr 03, 2016
Apr 06, 2016
really liked it
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was an enjoyable darker forbidden romance. I haven't read a bdsm type book in a while, and I thought this author did i 3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was an enjoyable darker forbidden romance. I haven't read a bdsm type book in a while, and I thought this author did it well. The teacher/student aspect was sexy, and I know that lots of readers will have issues with the age difference (h is 17 and H is 27) but I didn't. The h had some majorly unfortunate circumstances, and was more mature than the usual 17 year old IMO. I never felt that he was a predator on a young girl, because of the age difference -- but I did feel bad for the h when he started ogling her and treating her like other men do right away. I also had some issues with some of the drama in the book. It just felt like too many issues at times! (view spoiler)[ The whole baby daddy drama with the ex was out of nowhere, and I really thought it wasn't necessary with all the rest that was going on. The h didn't even make the H work for her forgiveness for not telling her, and it was over really quickly with little drama after finding out it wasn't his baby. So...why did we need that?!? It actually made me dislike the h some! I get it, he has major sexual powers -- but stick up for yourself and demand honesty!! (hide spoiler)] These are the main reasons for my lower rating.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ivory and Emeric's story. Ivory is 17 and starting her senior year at a prestigious school of the arts. She is severely poor, and sticks out among the rich kids. She has learned ways to support her drug using mom and brother, as well as herself while going to school. She has also dealt with the unfortunate side of being an attractive girl. Emeric's is her new mentor, and he is instantly drawn to her. They start to toe the line of impropriety right away, and of course eventually cross it. There is some drama with family, some issues with the school and other students, some OW drama, some sexy bdsm times, and they fall in love...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Ivory and Emeric's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No. Instalust? Yes.
H rating: 4 stars. Emeric. He was a sexy, mysterious man. I sometimes didn't like how he failed to communicate with the h, and would just take control of the situation (but I guess that was supposed to be part of his dominant persona)
h rating: 3.5 stars. Ivory. I felt really bad for her circumstances. She had so much against her! I just wish that she sometimes made the H work a little harder for her, and wasn't under the golden peen trance ;)
Sadness level: Low/moderate. I never needed any tissues, but it does cover some heavy themes.
Push/Pull: Yes (view spoiler)[ The H pushes the h away after kissing her, because he can go to jail since he is her teacher. He ends up giving up his fight and majorly pursuing her (even moving her in his house). (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Moderate/high. This had a lot of sexual tension, and once they actually become intimate there are a lot of scenes. They have hot chemistry and scenes.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes and no. They are tested and use birth control after results get back. The H never mentions past practices, but I think it's implied that it's similar to what he did with the h. The h says that the men that raped her didn't always use protection.
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[ There is an ex of the H that he claims to love (but hate) at the beginning. She shows up after they are together, and claims to be pregnant with his baby (view spoiler)[ it's not his (hide spoiler)]. There is another sub OW that shows up at the H's house when the h is there, and the h gets jealous. The H is jealous/enraged about the boys at the school that had been with the h. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ In the beginning, we experience the h being raped by her brother's friend. The h is with a boy from school a few times that pays her to do his homework and also forces her to have sex (by circumstance not physical force). There is a scene with the H and OW at the school that he has her masturbate in front of him, but it was to record and blackmail her since she saw him with the h. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: No (view spoiler)[ Once they are together, neither of them have other partners. (hide spoiler)]
Separation: Yes (view spoiler)[ There is a ~5 week separation after they kissed for the first time. The H thought about getting with OW, but doesn't go through with it (and hadn't been with anyone since he met the h). The h is with OM during the separation due to her needing money. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes(view spoiler)[ Domestic violence (h by her brother), rape (h by several different OM), protitution due to circumstance (h and several boys from school), BDSM (D/s dynamics, spanking with hand and belt, choking with oral, asphyxiation, bondage, and slight humiliation), 10 year age difference (h is 17 and H is 27), severe poverty, drug use by other characters, and teacher/student scenario. (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This actually had a decent jump ahead epilogue with a HEA ending!
How I got it: I paid the $3.99 for it on amazon.
Safety: Probably Not Safe for most
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does have a few descriptive sex scenes with h and OM
- Does have the H pushing the h away
- Does have a ~5 week separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse (domestic and sexual)
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: This was an enjoyable darker forbidden romance. I haven't read a bdsm type book in a while, and I thought this author did i 3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was an enjoyable darker forbidden romance. I haven't read a bdsm type book in a while, and I thought this author did it well. The teacher/student aspect was sexy, and I know that lots of readers will have issues with the age difference (h is 17 and H is 27) but I didn't. The h had some majorly unfortunate circumstances, and was more mature than the usual 17 year old IMO. I never felt that he was a predator on a young girl, because of the age difference -- but I did feel bad for the h when he started ogling her and treating her like other men do right away. I also had some issues with some of the drama in the book. It just felt like too many issues at times! (view spoiler)[ The whole baby daddy drama with the ex was out of nowhere, and I really thought it wasn't necessary with all the rest that was going on. The h didn't even make the H work for her forgiveness for not telling her, and it was over really quickly with little drama after finding out it wasn't his baby. So...why did we need that?!? It actually made me dislike the h some! I get it, he has major sexual powers -- but stick up for yourself and demand honesty!! (hide spoiler)] These are the main reasons for my lower rating.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ivory and Emeric's story. Ivory is 17 and starting her senior year at a prestigious school of the arts. She is severely poor, and sticks out among the rich kids. She has learned ways to support her drug using mom and brother, as well as herself while going to school. She has also dealt with the unfortunate side of being an attractive girl. Emeric's is her new mentor, and he is instantly drawn to her. They start to toe the line of impropriety right away, and of course eventually cross it. There is some drama with family, some issues with the school and other students, some OW drama, some sexy bdsm times, and they fall in love...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Ivory and Emeric's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No. Instalust? Yes.
H rating: 4 stars. Emeric. He was a sexy, mysterious man. I sometimes didn't like how he failed to communicate with the h, and would just take control of the situation (but I guess that was supposed to be part of his dominant persona)
h rating: 3.5 stars. Ivory. I felt really bad for her circumstances. She had so much against her! I just wish that she sometimes made the H work a little harder for her, and wasn't under the golden peen trance ;)
Sadness level: Low/moderate. I never needed any tissues, but it does cover some heavy themes.
Push/Pull: Yes (view spoiler)[ The H pushes the h away after kissing her, because he can go to jail since he is her teacher. He ends up giving up his fight and majorly pursuing her (even moving her in his house). (hide spoiler)]
Heat level: Moderate/high. This had a lot of sexual tension, and once they actually become intimate there are a lot of scenes. They have hot chemistry and scenes.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes and no. They are tested and use birth control after results get back. The H never mentions past practices, but I think it's implied that it's similar to what he did with the h. The h says that the men that raped her didn't always use protection.
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[ There is an ex of the H that he claims to love (but hate) at the beginning. She shows up after they are together, and claims to be pregnant with his baby (view spoiler)[ it's not his (hide spoiler)]. There is another sub OW that shows up at the H's house when the h is there, and the h gets jealous. The H is jealous/enraged about the boys at the school that had been with the h. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ In the beginning, we experience the h being raped by her brother's friend. The h is with a boy from school a few times that pays her to do his homework and also forces her to have sex (by circumstance not physical force). There is a scene with the H and OW at the school that he has her masturbate in front of him, but it was to record and blackmail her since she saw him with the h. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: No (view spoiler)[ Once they are together, neither of them have other partners. (hide spoiler)]
Separation: Yes (view spoiler)[ There is a ~5 week separation after they kissed for the first time. The H thought about getting with OW, but doesn't go through with it (and hadn't been with anyone since he met the h). The h is with OM during the separation due to her needing money. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes(view spoiler)[ Domestic violence (h by her brother), rape (h by several different OM), protitution due to circumstance (h and several boys from school), BDSM (D/s dynamics, spanking with hand and belt, choking with oral, asphyxiation, bondage, and slight humiliation), 10 year age difference (h is 17 and H is 27), severe poverty, drug use by other characters, and teacher/student scenario. (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This actually had a decent jump ahead epilogue with a HEA ending!
How I got it: I paid the $3.99 for it on amazon.
Safety: Probably Not Safe for most
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does have a few descriptive sex scenes with h and OM
- Does have the H pushing the h away
- Does have a ~5 week separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse (domestic and sexual)
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does have a HEA ending (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
Jun 04, 2016
Jun 04, 2016
Apr 12, 2016
Paperback
B00ZGEWUWQ
4.33
33,466
Aug 13, 2015
Aug 16, 2015
liked it
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I think I was expecting a lot more out of this, but it was just ok. It still had some twists and turns, and I read it fast b 3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I think I was expecting a lot more out of this, but it was just ok. It still had some twists and turns, and I read it fast because I was engaged and into it. There was just something missing for me. I think it was because the h and H spend a lot of the book apart, and I liked their interactions from the first book (even though the H wasn't always the greatest). It would've been nice to have some happy times after all the dust settled before the epilogue-- after all the heavy stuff I needed the lightness of it. I will be reading Bear's book, Lawless, but I think I'll have a break in between...
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Do/Ray and King's story. It takes off right where King ended. We get Doe/Ray with her old family before the memory loss, and having to try to fit back into her old life. It doesn't work so easily, but she has some memories coming back slowly. There is some major criminal drama that King is dealing with, some family issues for Doe, some sexy times, and a sweet epilogue...and they get their HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Doe/Ray and King's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. I never skimmed and it flowed well, but I needed more happiness after all of the heavy in the end before the epilogue.
Instalove: No, feelings of love were already there from book 1.
H rating: 4 stars. I liked him better in this one. He handled stuff in a brutal and not "good guy" way, but it was his way. I really like how he expressed his love for his daughter.
h rating: 3 stars. Doe/Ray. She was just ok in this for me. I felt like she had a lot going on, but she became a little whiny (even though I need to stop being mean to hs and give her some slack because she was going through a lot).
Sadness level: Low. No tissues needed for me.
Heat level: Moderate. Not as many scenes, but still good chemistry.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: No. Still no condom use, std stats talk, or birth control.
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[ h has OM that is the father of her child that claims to still love her that she cannot remember, and she has to deal with his feelings when she has returned back "home" (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM:No
Cheating: No, but... (view spoiler)[h kisses and marries (a marriage of convenience) OM after thinking the H is dead, but she is upfront with OM that she doesn't feel romantic towards him and still loves H (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Mild compared to first book(view spoiler)[h is attacked physically (pretty brutally too), male side character gets brutally raped with details, and h gets pregnant by H (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had ok closure with a HEA ending, but I wanted more of their happy times before the ending.
How I got it: I paid the $3.99 on Amazon.
Safety: Not Safe (mainly because the first of the series is definitely not safe and you'd have to read that one first)
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does have the H pushing the h away to protect her
- Does have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse in the form of an attack and side character getting sexually assaulted in detail
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does have a HEA ending. (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: I think I was expecting a lot more out of this, but it was just ok. It still had some twists and turns, and I read it fast b 3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I think I was expecting a lot more out of this, but it was just ok. It still had some twists and turns, and I read it fast because I was engaged and into it. There was just something missing for me. I think it was because the h and H spend a lot of the book apart, and I liked their interactions from the first book (even though the H wasn't always the greatest). It would've been nice to have some happy times after all the dust settled before the epilogue-- after all the heavy stuff I needed the lightness of it. I will be reading Bear's book, Lawless, but I think I'll have a break in between...
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Do/Ray and King's story. It takes off right where King ended. We get Doe/Ray with her old family before the memory loss, and having to try to fit back into her old life. It doesn't work so easily, but she has some memories coming back slowly. There is some major criminal drama that King is dealing with, some family issues for Doe, some sexy times, and a sweet epilogue...and they get their HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Doe/Ray and King's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. I never skimmed and it flowed well, but I needed more happiness after all of the heavy in the end before the epilogue.
Instalove: No, feelings of love were already there from book 1.
H rating: 4 stars. I liked him better in this one. He handled stuff in a brutal and not "good guy" way, but it was his way. I really like how he expressed his love for his daughter.
h rating: 3 stars. Doe/Ray. She was just ok in this for me. I felt like she had a lot going on, but she became a little whiny (even though I need to stop being mean to hs and give her some slack because she was going through a lot).
Sadness level: Low. No tissues needed for me.
Heat level: Moderate. Not as many scenes, but still good chemistry.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: No. Still no condom use, std stats talk, or birth control.
OW/OM drama: Yes (view spoiler)[ h has OM that is the father of her child that claims to still love her that she cannot remember, and she has to deal with his feelings when she has returned back "home" (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM:No
Cheating: No, but... (view spoiler)[h kisses and marries (a marriage of convenience) OM after thinking the H is dead, but she is upfront with OM that she doesn't feel romantic towards him and still loves H (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Mild compared to first book(view spoiler)[h is attacked physically (pretty brutally too), male side character gets brutally raped with details, and h gets pregnant by H (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had ok closure with a HEA ending, but I wanted more of their happy times before the ending.
How I got it: I paid the $3.99 on Amazon.
Safety: Not Safe (mainly because the first of the series is definitely not safe and you'd have to read that one first)
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does have the H pushing the h away to protect her
- Does have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse in the form of an attack and side character getting sexually assaulted in detail
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does have a HEA ending. (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
Mar 16, 2016
Mar 16, 2016
Mar 17, 2016
Kindle Edition
B01BHGW19I
4.09
7,229
Feb 29, 2016
Feb 29, 2016
really liked it
4 Stars
Overall Opinion: I was hooked into this one pretty much right away. It wasn't full of unicorn and rainbows for sure, but I appreciated that f 4 Stars
Overall Opinion: I was hooked into this one pretty much right away. It wasn't full of unicorn and rainbows for sure, but I appreciated that fact. While its not like I get off on the gruesome scenes, I get frustrated when books about captivity are kind of fluffy because it makes it unrealistic for me. I loved the H! I want him to get better so bad, and I was just waiting to find out the reason as to why he is the way he is -- and once I did, my heart broke for the younger version of him for what he went through! I'm anxious to start the next book, This is Love, Baby, which thankfully is already out ;)
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I can't go into too many details without ruining it, but I'll try. This is Baylee, Greg, and War's story. This book is broken it in 2 parts. Part one is about Baylee being kidnapped by Greg and trained for being sold into sex slavery. He "trains" her by raping and abusing her, but he is also obsessed with her and has been for some time. The second part of the book is after Baylee h has been sold off to War. She realizes instantly that War is not going to hurt her, but that he suffers from a mental disorder that has made him crave a companion. They become friends, and eventually fall in love.
POV: This alternated between Baylee, War and Gabe's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. It flowed well, and I never skimmed.
Instalove: No, but feelings progress kind of quickly.
H rating: 5 stars. War. I loved him. He was so damaged and he really suffered from his disorders, and I couldn't help but care for him and his love for the h.
h rating: 4 stars. Baylee. I liked how she remained strong through it all, and how she ended up really caring for the H.
Sadness level: Low. This deals with super heavy subjects, but I never needed any tissues.
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Moderate. The scenes with Gabe were pretty gruesome (so I can't say they're hot), and the scenes with the H were more about the intimacy IMO.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Not really. The h supposedly had a birth control shot, but no condoms or std status were mentioned. No past practices mentioned either.
OW/OM drama: I guess...(view spoiler)[ The kidnapper claims to love the h, and tells her that he'll come back for her because he is obsessed with her (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ We get an oral scene with the h and her boyfriend, and then a 2 week period with the psycho Gabe taking her virginity (and everything else) descriptively (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: No(view spoiler)[I guess one can say that the h cheated on her boyfriend -- but she was kidnapped and forced into her circumstance...so I think I'll give her a pass (hide spoiler)]
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes(view spoiler)[ Kidnapping, sexual assault and rape, physical abuse, sex trade, suicide, 10 year (I think) age difference between the h and H, and mental disorders. (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This ends on a cliffhanger, but the second book is out already...so on to the next!
How I got it: It was part of my scribed subscription.
Safety: Not safe
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating between h and H
- Does have descriptive sex scenes with h and 2 different OM
- Does Not have the H pushing the h away, but only because of his disorder
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does Not have a HEA ending because there is a second book (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: I was hooked into this one pretty much right away. It wasn't full of unicorn and rainbows for sure, but I appreciated that f 4 Stars
Overall Opinion: I was hooked into this one pretty much right away. It wasn't full of unicorn and rainbows for sure, but I appreciated that fact. While its not like I get off on the gruesome scenes, I get frustrated when books about captivity are kind of fluffy because it makes it unrealistic for me. I loved the H! I want him to get better so bad, and I was just waiting to find out the reason as to why he is the way he is -- and once I did, my heart broke for the younger version of him for what he went through! I'm anxious to start the next book, This is Love, Baby, which thankfully is already out ;)
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I can't go into too many details without ruining it, but I'll try. This is Baylee, Greg, and War's story. This book is broken it in 2 parts. Part one is about Baylee being kidnapped by Greg and trained for being sold into sex slavery. He "trains" her by raping and abusing her, but he is also obsessed with her and has been for some time. The second part of the book is after Baylee h has been sold off to War. She realizes instantly that War is not going to hurt her, but that he suffers from a mental disorder that has made him crave a companion. They become friends, and eventually fall in love.
POV: This alternated between Baylee, War and Gabe's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. It flowed well, and I never skimmed.
Instalove: No, but feelings progress kind of quickly.
H rating: 5 stars. War. I loved him. He was so damaged and he really suffered from his disorders, and I couldn't help but care for him and his love for the h.
h rating: 4 stars. Baylee. I liked how she remained strong through it all, and how she ended up really caring for the H.
Sadness level: Low. This deals with super heavy subjects, but I never needed any tissues.
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Moderate. The scenes with Gabe were pretty gruesome (so I can't say they're hot), and the scenes with the H were more about the intimacy IMO.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Not really. The h supposedly had a birth control shot, but no condoms or std status were mentioned. No past practices mentioned either.
OW/OM drama: I guess...(view spoiler)[ The kidnapper claims to love the h, and tells her that he'll come back for her because he is obsessed with her (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes (view spoiler)[ We get an oral scene with the h and her boyfriend, and then a 2 week period with the psycho Gabe taking her virginity (and everything else) descriptively (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: No(view spoiler)[I guess one can say that the h cheated on her boyfriend -- but she was kidnapped and forced into her circumstance...so I think I'll give her a pass (hide spoiler)]
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes(view spoiler)[ Kidnapping, sexual assault and rape, physical abuse, sex trade, suicide, 10 year (I think) age difference between the h and H, and mental disorders. (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This ends on a cliffhanger, but the second book is out already...so on to the next!
How I got it: It was part of my scribed subscription.
Safety: Not safe
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating between h and H
- Does have descriptive sex scenes with h and 2 different OM
- Does Not have the H pushing the h away, but only because of his disorder
- Does Not have a separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does Not have a HEA ending because there is a second book (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
Apr 24, 2016
Apr 25, 2016
Feb 26, 2016
Kindle Edition
4.40
17,436
Feb 23, 2016
Feb 23, 2016
really liked it
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: I felt like this was a good end of their story. Honestly, I do think the author could've made this into just one book inste 3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: I felt like this was a good end of their story. Honestly, I do think the author could've made this into just one book instead of adding some unnecessary drama in to stretch it out into two. I was rooting for the couple to get their HEA ending, but I felt like the whole (view spoiler)[ Mom and rat thing with the mc (hide spoiler)] was a little OTT. I am excited for the possibility of another spinoff book/series (view spoiler)[ about Preppy?!? (hide spoiler)] maybe...please pretty please ;)
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I can't really say much that will not ruin it, so I'll keep this really brief. This takes off right where the first book left off, and the couple is separated. They reunite, but they have a lot of family and mc drama they have to deal with. They do eventually get a HEA in the end.
POV: This alternated between Thia and Bear's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, but they already were in love at the beginning of this one.
H rating: 4 stars. Bear. I did like him better in this one, as he was ALL about the h!
h rating: 4 stars. Thia. I still appreciated her tough attitude!
Sadness level: Low/moderate. I didn't personally cry, but it does have some sad scenes.
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Moderate. They have some good chemistry and scenes.
Descriptive sex: Yes.
Safe sex: No. The H has openly said that he wants to get her pregnant.
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes(view spoiler)[There is a flashback of a descriptive scene with the H and a OW. (view spoiler)[The only reason I can even venture to guess as to why we needed this scene (because I really don't see any other reason as to why it was necessary) is to give us some background for a Preppy book...maybe? Please! (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: No
Separation:Yes (view spoiler)[ They are separated for about 6 months at the beginning. No mention of other partners during separation. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes(view spoiler)[Violence and killing. (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had a cute jump ahead epilogue that gave us a HEA ending, but there were still some unanswered questions. I just have to say that the last bomb that was dropped before the epilogue = awe-some!!!
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: Not Safe
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with OW and H
- Does Not have the H or h pushing away
- Does have a ~6 month separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does have a HEA ending. (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: I felt like this was a good end of their story. Honestly, I do think the author could've made this into just one book inste 3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: I felt like this was a good end of their story. Honestly, I do think the author could've made this into just one book instead of adding some unnecessary drama in to stretch it out into two. I was rooting for the couple to get their HEA ending, but I felt like the whole (view spoiler)[ Mom and rat thing with the mc (hide spoiler)] was a little OTT. I am excited for the possibility of another spinoff book/series (view spoiler)[ about Preppy?!? (hide spoiler)] maybe...please pretty please ;)
Brief Summary of the Storyline: I can't really say much that will not ruin it, so I'll keep this really brief. This takes off right where the first book left off, and the couple is separated. They reunite, but they have a lot of family and mc drama they have to deal with. They do eventually get a HEA in the end.
POV: This alternated between Thia and Bear's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, but they already were in love at the beginning of this one.
H rating: 4 stars. Bear. I did like him better in this one, as he was ALL about the h!
h rating: 4 stars. Thia. I still appreciated her tough attitude!
Sadness level: Low/moderate. I didn't personally cry, but it does have some sad scenes.
Push/Pull: No
Heat level: Moderate. They have some good chemistry and scenes.
Descriptive sex: Yes.
Safe sex: No. The H has openly said that he wants to get her pregnant.
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: Yes(view spoiler)[There is a flashback of a descriptive scene with the H and a OW. (view spoiler)[The only reason I can even venture to guess as to why we needed this scene (because I really don't see any other reason as to why it was necessary) is to give us some background for a Preppy book...maybe? Please! (hide spoiler)] (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: No
Separation:Yes (view spoiler)[ They are separated for about 6 months at the beginning. No mention of other partners during separation. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Yes(view spoiler)[Violence and killing. (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had a cute jump ahead epilogue that gave us a HEA ending, but there were still some unanswered questions. I just have to say that the last bomb that was dropped before the epilogue = awe-some!!!
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: Not Safe
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does have a descriptive sex scene with OW and H
- Does Not have the H or h pushing away
- Does have a ~6 month separation between the h and H
- Does have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does have a HEA ending. (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
May 05, 2016
May 06, 2016
Feb 23, 2016
Kindle Edition
4.12
8,180
Feb 15, 2016
Feb 15, 2016
liked it
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was an ok read. I found it really predictable, but it was a pretty light and sexy read. I had annoyances with both the h 3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was an ok read. I found it really predictable, but it was a pretty light and sexy read. I had annoyances with both the h and H, but nothing major to where I feel the need to rant....overall it was just ok.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Brynne and Fenton's story. Brynn is convinced the world is against her. She caught her boyfriend of 2 years cheating on her (1 year ago), her brother is a doctor that is MIA in Zimbabwe, she had to take time off school, and now she lost her phone that is full of memories. Fenton finds it in the produce section of a grocery store, and is instantly drawn to her picture. He asks her on a date when he returns the phone, but their date is cut short and he ends up proposing that she accompany him on a long weekend business trip. She goes and they start a physical relationship that turns into more. There are some sexy times, some funny moments, some major family drama...but they get their HFN ending.
POV: This was told mainly in Brynne's (with a few sections told in Fenton's) POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and it flowed well.
Instalove: Yes. They had developed pretty strong feelings over a long weekend together.
H rating: 3 stars. Fenton. He was hot, but too secretive at times.
h rating: 2 stars. Brynne. She was funny at times, but I had major issues with her "woe is me/the world is against me" attitude at times.
Sadness level: Low. No tissues needed.
Heat level: Moderate/high. They had some hot chemistry and sexy times. There was a good bit, and it almost got to the point that it was the only thing they had for a connection IMO.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes and no. Brief mention of h using birth control shot, but no mention of condom use or std status between them (that I remember).
OW/OM drama: Mild(view spoiler)[ The h's ex lures her to dinner on the false pretense that he has info about her brother, but really is just trying to get her back. Mild drama though. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: No. Both are all about the other once they meet.
Cheating: No(view spoiler)[The h was cheated on by her ex, and there are mentions as to how that went down. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Mild (view spoiler)[H was previous non-commitment guy (no major details other than he never had feeling for anybody else or a real relationship), family member being MIA (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had ok closure and maybe a lead into another book, but not enough closure for me. I would call it a HFN ending.
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: Safe with exception
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does have the h pushing the H away after he messes up
- Does have a short separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does Not have a HEA ending. (hide spoiler)] ...more
Overall Opinion: This was an ok read. I found it really predictable, but it was a pretty light and sexy read. I had annoyances with both the h 3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was an ok read. I found it really predictable, but it was a pretty light and sexy read. I had annoyances with both the h and H, but nothing major to where I feel the need to rant....overall it was just ok.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Brynne and Fenton's story. Brynn is convinced the world is against her. She caught her boyfriend of 2 years cheating on her (1 year ago), her brother is a doctor that is MIA in Zimbabwe, she had to take time off school, and now she lost her phone that is full of memories. Fenton finds it in the produce section of a grocery store, and is instantly drawn to her picture. He asks her on a date when he returns the phone, but their date is cut short and he ends up proposing that she accompany him on a long weekend business trip. She goes and they start a physical relationship that turns into more. There are some sexy times, some funny moments, some major family drama...but they get their HFN ending.
POV: This was told mainly in Brynne's (with a few sections told in Fenton's) POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and it flowed well.
Instalove: Yes. They had developed pretty strong feelings over a long weekend together.
H rating: 3 stars. Fenton. He was hot, but too secretive at times.
h rating: 2 stars. Brynne. She was funny at times, but I had major issues with her "woe is me/the world is against me" attitude at times.
Sadness level: Low. No tissues needed.
Heat level: Moderate/high. They had some hot chemistry and sexy times. There was a good bit, and it almost got to the point that it was the only thing they had for a connection IMO.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes and no. Brief mention of h using birth control shot, but no mention of condom use or std status between them (that I remember).
OW/OM drama: Mild(view spoiler)[ The h's ex lures her to dinner on the false pretense that he has info about her brother, but really is just trying to get her back. Mild drama though. (hide spoiler)]
Sex scene with OW or OM: No. Both are all about the other once they meet.
Cheating: No(view spoiler)[The h was cheated on by her ex, and there are mentions as to how that went down. (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: Mild (view spoiler)[H was previous non-commitment guy (no major details other than he never had feeling for anybody else or a real relationship), family member being MIA (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had ok closure and maybe a lead into another book, but not enough closure for me. I would call it a HFN ending.
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: Safe with exception
(view spoiler)[
- Does Not have cheating
- Does Not have a descriptive sex scene with OW/OM
- Does have the h pushing the H away after he messes up
- Does have a short separation between the h and H
- Does Not have abuse
- Does Not have OTT sad parts
- Does Not have a HEA ending. (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
1
Feb 25, 2016
Feb 26, 2016
Feb 02, 2016
Paperback
3.70
4,082
Apr 10, 2016
Apr 10, 2016
liked it
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I really don’t know what to think about this tbh. I was looking through Stylo Fantome’s books looking for a stand-alone after 3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I really don’t know what to think about this tbh. I was looking through Stylo Fantome’s books looking for a stand-alone after reading the Kane trilogy. This was crazy! I briefly read some reviews but didn’t go into too many details because I decided to go in blind and I’m glad I did. It made me uncomfortable. It was super dark and messed up. I wouldn’t say I was really routing for these two or anything, but I felt their connection to each other, I felt as though they were meant to be, and I stayed engaged — I think that says a lot for the author! But just a warning: if you don’t like dark books with f-ed up sociopathic characters and/or graphic violence — this is NOT for you! ...I’m honestly not sure how to rate (because saying I liked it feels wrong ...more
Overall Opinion: I really don’t know what to think about this tbh. I was looking through Stylo Fantome’s books looking for a stand-alone after 3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I really don’t know what to think about this tbh. I was looking through Stylo Fantome’s books looking for a stand-alone after reading the Kane trilogy. This was crazy! I briefly read some reviews but didn’t go into too many details because I decided to go in blind and I’m glad I did. It made me uncomfortable. It was super dark and messed up. I wouldn’t say I was really routing for these two or anything, but I felt their connection to each other, I felt as though they were meant to be, and I stayed engaged — I think that says a lot for the author! But just a warning: if you don’t like dark books with f-ed up sociopathic characters and/or graphic violence — this is NOT for you! ...I’m honestly not sure how to rate (because saying I liked it feels wrong ...more
Notes are private!
1
Oct 27, 2020
Oct 27, 2020
Jan 24, 2016
Kindle Edition
B0173TFTJM
3.91
998
unknown
Dec 16, 2015
it was ok
2 Stars
Overall Opinion: FYI readers -- this ends on a cliffhanger of sorts and doesn't give the reader closure on their story. I didn't realize this 2 Stars
Overall Opinion: FYI readers -- this ends on a cliffhanger of sorts and doesn't give the reader closure on their story. I didn't realize this and got rather frustrated when I got there, so for those like me -- beware ;). Also, for those of my "safety" gals, you should pass on this too. I had lots of troubles with this one, and didn't feel connected to the characters all that much. While I did feel bad for both of their circumstances, I didn't feel that need to root for them as I sometimes do in these types of stories. I didn't necessarily find this to be a romantic story hardly at all. I thought it was nice for these 2 extremely damaged characters to find comfort in each other, but romance it was not IMO. See below spoilers for more info...
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Aylee and Maddox's story. They have known eachother from school, and Aylee has always been fascinated by the cold bad boy. Both of them are severely damaged. They keep on running into eachother, and Aylee finally asks him to pose for a painting for her. They start an odd banter that eventually turns into more. There is some sex, some major violence, and some friend drama...but they get to their HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Aylee and Maddox's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. It flowed well to where I read it fast and didn't skim, but then it ended abruptly with an unexpected cliffhanger of sorts (view spoiler)[they get on a bus to run away together (hide spoiler)].
Instalove: Yes and no. I would say that the h had some strong feelings for the H right away. For the H it takes a while, but then it seemed to come out of nowhere.
H rating: 2 stars. Maddox. He was so damaged. He wasn't really all that likeable IMO, and I didn't find his sudden strong feeling for the h believable.
h rating: 3 stars. Aylee. I felt really bad for her situation, but I also felt like she was too eager for the H's attention.
Sadness level: Low/moderate. This covers some majorly heavy themes, but I personally didn't need any tissues.
Heat level: Moderate. Ok steam factor, but I personally was turned off by experiencing some of his other interactions.
Descriptive sex: Yes.
Safe sex: Yes and no. One instance a condom is mentioned (and it is mentioned with his OW), but another it is not.
OW/OM drama: No.
Sex scene with OW or OM: (view spoiler)[ Yes. The h walks in on the H having sex with 2 women for his porn site, and then we get some description of 2 other threesomes with one where he is thinking about the h -- yuck! (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: (view spoiler)[Yes and no. The H has sex with other women after interacting with the h, but they weren't "together" (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: (view spoiler)[ A lot -- Violence, domestic abuse, child abuse, rape, drugs, murder (hide spoiler)]
Closure: Super abrupt ending with their story still being open. I was frustrated, because I had no idea that there was another book! I'd say it was a HFN ending at most.
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription. ...more
Overall Opinion: FYI readers -- this ends on a cliffhanger of sorts and doesn't give the reader closure on their story. I didn't realize this 2 Stars
Overall Opinion: FYI readers -- this ends on a cliffhanger of sorts and doesn't give the reader closure on their story. I didn't realize this and got rather frustrated when I got there, so for those like me -- beware ;). Also, for those of my "safety" gals, you should pass on this too. I had lots of troubles with this one, and didn't feel connected to the characters all that much. While I did feel bad for both of their circumstances, I didn't feel that need to root for them as I sometimes do in these types of stories. I didn't necessarily find this to be a romantic story hardly at all. I thought it was nice for these 2 extremely damaged characters to find comfort in each other, but romance it was not IMO. See below spoilers for more info...
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Aylee and Maddox's story. They have known eachother from school, and Aylee has always been fascinated by the cold bad boy. Both of them are severely damaged. They keep on running into eachother, and Aylee finally asks him to pose for a painting for her. They start an odd banter that eventually turns into more. There is some sex, some major violence, and some friend drama...but they get to their HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Aylee and Maddox's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. It flowed well to where I read it fast and didn't skim, but then it ended abruptly with an unexpected cliffhanger of sorts (view spoiler)[they get on a bus to run away together (hide spoiler)].
Instalove: Yes and no. I would say that the h had some strong feelings for the H right away. For the H it takes a while, but then it seemed to come out of nowhere.
H rating: 2 stars. Maddox. He was so damaged. He wasn't really all that likeable IMO, and I didn't find his sudden strong feeling for the h believable.
h rating: 3 stars. Aylee. I felt really bad for her situation, but I also felt like she was too eager for the H's attention.
Sadness level: Low/moderate. This covers some majorly heavy themes, but I personally didn't need any tissues.
Heat level: Moderate. Ok steam factor, but I personally was turned off by experiencing some of his other interactions.
Descriptive sex: Yes.
Safe sex: Yes and no. One instance a condom is mentioned (and it is mentioned with his OW), but another it is not.
OW/OM drama: No.
Sex scene with OW or OM: (view spoiler)[ Yes. The h walks in on the H having sex with 2 women for his porn site, and then we get some description of 2 other threesomes with one where he is thinking about the h -- yuck! (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: (view spoiler)[Yes and no. The H has sex with other women after interacting with the h, but they weren't "together" (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: (view spoiler)[ A lot -- Violence, domestic abuse, child abuse, rape, drugs, murder (hide spoiler)]
Closure: Super abrupt ending with their story still being open. I was frustrated, because I had no idea that there was another book! I'd say it was a HFN ending at most.
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription. ...more
Notes are private!
1
Dec 28, 2015
Dec 29, 2015
Dec 22, 2015
Kindle Edition
1519651856
9781519651853
1519651856
4.14
18,790
Mar 23, 2022
Dec 10, 2015
liked it
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This is a hard one for me to rate. I liked it, but I had some issues too. I don't think I can fully explain those issues wit 3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This is a hard one for me to rate. I liked it, but I had some issues too. I don't think I can fully explain those issues without spoilers, so here are some doozies:
(view spoiler)[
- The H's pregnant fiancé was raped and murdered, and the H murdered the three men that did it to her (but it was deemed self-defense). So needless to say, the H was messed up. I think it's really hard for an author to do the dead partner theme well. I'm not necessarily feeling like this was a total fail, but I wasn't really satisfied. I think it was because I felt like the h was second best. Yes, the H fell in love with her. Yes, he showed that as well as said it to her by the end. But -- I couldn't get rid of that nagging feeling of her being his second choice. I typically like this theme, but I had some issues with that feeling (which I think can be common in these stories). It might've also been that the H and the dead woman's brother said that she reminded them of the dead woman. I think it works better IMO if the h/H is so obviously different from the dead partner but they fell in love anyways (instead of the possibility of having a replica).
- The H takes off in a freak out when the h tells him she loves him. I hate it when the freak out like this, especially when they are supposed to be in love too. I get that he had a traumatic and sad past with the last woman he loved, but to leave for 6 MONTHS?!? Granted a lot of that was because he was thrown in jail for a fight, bit still. For being a tough manly man -- grow some balls and deal with your feelings!
- I'm going to add another spoiler tag because this is a big twist at the end that some might not want to know about... (view spoiler)[The H was tricked to sign his parental rights away from his daughter when he thought they were just papers for his fiancé and child's death. So the daughter is alive, and living in foster care. The H's uncle is a cop and was a rookie on the H's case, and he was deeply moved by the H's situation. He had been keeping track of the little girl (~2 year old), and making sure she has been safe. He never mentioned it to the H because he thought it would be too painful and that he had chosen to sign away his rights, but he tells the h and she adopts the girl while the H is gone on his freak out. Ok so I'm not totally heartless, and I liked the idea of the girl being alive...but I also had some issues with it. It felt too easy -- like it was thrown in as the solution to "fix" the H and all his fucked-upness. The girl started calling the h "mommy" almost right away, and that kind of bothered me. I just felt like it was yet another reason she was a replica for the dead fiancé. This happened at the end of the book (another reason I felt like it was put in as a "solution"), so when the H came back and the h/H both started to refer to the three of them being a "family" I wasn't convinced. He came back, apologized, cried over his daughter, and then they were a family?!? Way too easy for me...maybe I am heartless ;) (hide spoiler)]
(hide spoiler)]
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Avalon and Royal's story. They meet at a party at Royal's house, but don't have that much of an interaction. They meet again when Royal is visiting his half-brother who happens to be Avalon's boyfriend. She has been having issues with her relationship with her boyfriend and ends up leaving with Royal. Royal is a damaged Hero, and Avalon is intrigued by him. They spend a good bit of time together, and even though they are wildly attracted to eachother they don't cross the line until she talks with her boyfriend. There is some ex drama, some sexy times, some major personal demons to deal with...and then the couple get their HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Avalon and Royal's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good - I didn't skim, and it flowed well.
Instalove: No. Instalust for sure, but love takes a while to develop.
H rating: 3 stars. Royal. I liked him fine, but there were some issues I couldn't get past.
h rating: 4 stars. Avalon. I liked her. She was sassy, and I think what I appreciated the most from her was that she wasn't judgmental with anyone she met.
Sadness level: Moderate/low. I personally didn't need tissues, but it does cover some heavy themes that might make one need them.
Heat level: Moderate. A good amount of scenes. Rough and dirty talking sex.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes and no. Condoms were being used, and then they stop without talking about the h being on birth control or STD status.
OW/OM drama: Yes. The h is dating the H's half-brother when they meet. She does break-up with him, but there is some drama with him.
Sex scene with OW or OM: (view spoiler)[Yes. We experience the H getting a bj from OW. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: (view spoiler)[Not technically. The H gets a bj from OW and "drowns himself in whiskey and pussy" (2 different instances) after meeting our h, but this was before they get together (and she's still officially with his half-brother) (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: (view spoiler)[Violence - murder, mentions of rape (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had a HFN ending. While the epilogue was sweet, I really wanted more with maybe some big commitments from our couple.
How I got it: I paid the introductory price of $.99 on Amazon. ...more
Overall Opinion: This is a hard one for me to rate. I liked it, but I had some issues too. I don't think I can fully explain those issues wit 3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This is a hard one for me to rate. I liked it, but I had some issues too. I don't think I can fully explain those issues without spoilers, so here are some doozies:
(view spoiler)[
- The H's pregnant fiancé was raped and murdered, and the H murdered the three men that did it to her (but it was deemed self-defense). So needless to say, the H was messed up. I think it's really hard for an author to do the dead partner theme well. I'm not necessarily feeling like this was a total fail, but I wasn't really satisfied. I think it was because I felt like the h was second best. Yes, the H fell in love with her. Yes, he showed that as well as said it to her by the end. But -- I couldn't get rid of that nagging feeling of her being his second choice. I typically like this theme, but I had some issues with that feeling (which I think can be common in these stories). It might've also been that the H and the dead woman's brother said that she reminded them of the dead woman. I think it works better IMO if the h/H is so obviously different from the dead partner but they fell in love anyways (instead of the possibility of having a replica).
- The H takes off in a freak out when the h tells him she loves him. I hate it when the freak out like this, especially when they are supposed to be in love too. I get that he had a traumatic and sad past with the last woman he loved, but to leave for 6 MONTHS?!? Granted a lot of that was because he was thrown in jail for a fight, bit still. For being a tough manly man -- grow some balls and deal with your feelings!
- I'm going to add another spoiler tag because this is a big twist at the end that some might not want to know about... (view spoiler)[The H was tricked to sign his parental rights away from his daughter when he thought they were just papers for his fiancé and child's death. So the daughter is alive, and living in foster care. The H's uncle is a cop and was a rookie on the H's case, and he was deeply moved by the H's situation. He had been keeping track of the little girl (~2 year old), and making sure she has been safe. He never mentioned it to the H because he thought it would be too painful and that he had chosen to sign away his rights, but he tells the h and she adopts the girl while the H is gone on his freak out. Ok so I'm not totally heartless, and I liked the idea of the girl being alive...but I also had some issues with it. It felt too easy -- like it was thrown in as the solution to "fix" the H and all his fucked-upness. The girl started calling the h "mommy" almost right away, and that kind of bothered me. I just felt like it was yet another reason she was a replica for the dead fiancé. This happened at the end of the book (another reason I felt like it was put in as a "solution"), so when the H came back and the h/H both started to refer to the three of them being a "family" I wasn't convinced. He came back, apologized, cried over his daughter, and then they were a family?!? Way too easy for me...maybe I am heartless ;) (hide spoiler)]
(hide spoiler)]
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Avalon and Royal's story. They meet at a party at Royal's house, but don't have that much of an interaction. They meet again when Royal is visiting his half-brother who happens to be Avalon's boyfriend. She has been having issues with her relationship with her boyfriend and ends up leaving with Royal. Royal is a damaged Hero, and Avalon is intrigued by him. They spend a good bit of time together, and even though they are wildly attracted to eachother they don't cross the line until she talks with her boyfriend. There is some ex drama, some sexy times, some major personal demons to deal with...and then the couple get their HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Avalon and Royal's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good - I didn't skim, and it flowed well.
Instalove: No. Instalust for sure, but love takes a while to develop.
H rating: 3 stars. Royal. I liked him fine, but there were some issues I couldn't get past.
h rating: 4 stars. Avalon. I liked her. She was sassy, and I think what I appreciated the most from her was that she wasn't judgmental with anyone she met.
Sadness level: Moderate/low. I personally didn't need tissues, but it does cover some heavy themes that might make one need them.
Heat level: Moderate. A good amount of scenes. Rough and dirty talking sex.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes and no. Condoms were being used, and then they stop without talking about the h being on birth control or STD status.
OW/OM drama: Yes. The h is dating the H's half-brother when they meet. She does break-up with him, but there is some drama with him.
Sex scene with OW or OM: (view spoiler)[Yes. We experience the H getting a bj from OW. (hide spoiler)]
Cheating: (view spoiler)[Not technically. The H gets a bj from OW and "drowns himself in whiskey and pussy" (2 different instances) after meeting our h, but this was before they get together (and she's still officially with his half-brother) (hide spoiler)]
Possible Triggers: (view spoiler)[Violence - murder, mentions of rape (hide spoiler)]
Closure: This had a HFN ending. While the epilogue was sweet, I really wanted more with maybe some big commitments from our couple.
How I got it: I paid the introductory price of $.99 on Amazon. ...more
Notes are private!
1
Dec 17, 2015
Dec 18, 2015
Dec 14, 2015
Paperback
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