I had a feeling that 2017 in books was going to be epic for me. I've started the year with a lot of good stories and things are getting better and bet I had a feeling that 2017 in books was going to be epic for me. I've started the year with a lot of good stories and things are getting better and better. When I heard that Janet will release Serenity I was super excited and wanted so much to read about her new characters, but also rejoice on the idea of rekindling with the old ones (especially Ian :D, yes, I will always have a soft spot for him).
So, here it goes. Sasha and Matthew are our couple from this book, 2 people that will feel an instant connection, but due to some circumstances, they will give into their feelings after various torturing chapters..
Matthew has 2 kids and lives an unhappy marriage. He knows that his wife has been cheating on him for a couple of years, but not wanting to upset his kids, he doesn't reveal that information to them. He wants a divorce, but of course his wife won't make life easy for him. The perks of being a multimillionaire is that you have everything you need, money, business, luxury cars and expensive trips, but what Matthew didn't have was love and fidelity. Until he meets Tessa's friend, Sasha, a yoga instructor and the kindest woman on the planet.
Sasha was very different from other heroines that I've read about."Serenity" is exactly the adjective that fits her perfectly and praises to Janet for choosing this word to represent both her and our beloved couple. Matthew will become Sasha's friend, will begin to attend her massage sessions and slowly this will grow into something else.
I loved the dynamics of this couple. Matthew needed Sasha in his life badly. After all the years of infidelity and only hard work, he found someone who wanted to take care of him, love him unconditionally and make him feel appreciated. He is exactly like Sasha, he wants only to give, not take. He is selfless and her happiness was his as well. He is a loving father, that will do anything for his kids and this further on will be his weakness. His relationship with his son, Casey, really made me swoon and wanted all the kids to have a father like that :)
I loved Sasha so much. I loved her in connection with Matthew but also in connection with Tessa and Julia, that made various appearances in the book. She was like a breath of fresh air, something different but so great for the book. She was so understanding, so kind and an example of trust. I came to think of her as being unreal, because all this qualities are very hard to find in a woman. She will teach Matthew how to start all over as a new man, living and feeling completely different than before. Of course she will also have her vulnerable moments, but at the end of the day, her love for Matthew will be greater than any insecurity she may have.
The book was exactly what I needed. The perfect mixture of great story and characters, with a plot that kept me intrigued. If I am not mistaken, Janet created her most hated villain. Lindsay was bitchy, gruesome, mean, revengeful, a lousy mother and wife, who cared only about her and her appearance. Being rich meant everything to her and when Matthew finally woke up and filled up for divorce, she was so twisted and sick and did everything in her power to prevent that from happening. I hated her so much and counted the pages until she could be punished as she deserves. The ending was quite satisfying for me and I continue to believe that she deserves MUCH more.
I totally recommend this book because it had a bit of everything. Janet's penmanship is amazing and I liked the way she combined the 3rd person POV with the descriptions and the dialogues, providing every bit of information and details that the reader would want.I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.
I had a feeling that 2017 in books was going to be epic for me. I've started the year with a lot of good stories and things are getting better and better. When I heard that Janet will release Serenity I was super excited and wanted so much to read about her new characters, but also rejoice on the idea of rekindling with the old ones (especially Ian :D, yes, I will always have a soft spot for him).
So, here it goes. Sasha and Matthew are our couple from this book, 2 people that will feel an instant connection, but due to some circumstances, they will give into their feelings after various torturing chapters..
Matthew has 2 kids and lives an unhappy marriage. He knows that his wife has been cheating on him for a couple of years, but not wanting to upset his kids, he doesn't reveal that information to them. He wants a divorce, but of course his wife won't make life easy for him. The perks of being a multimillionaire is that you have everything you need, money, business, luxury cars and expensive trips, but what Matthew didn't have was love and fidelity. Until he meets Tessa's friend, Sasha, a yoga instructor and the kindest woman on the planet.
Sasha was very different from other heroines that I've read about."Serenity" is exactly the adjective that fits her perfectly and praises to Janet for choosing this word to represent both her and our beloved couple. Matthew will become Sasha's friend, will begin to attend her massage sessions and slowly this will grow into something else.
I loved the dynamics of this couple. Matthew needed Sasha in his life badly. After all the years of infidelity and only hard work, he found someone who wanted to take care of him, love him unconditionally and make him feel appreciated. He is exactly like Sasha, he wants only to give, not take. He is selfless and her happiness was his as well. He is a loving father, that will do anything for his kids and this further on will be his weakness. His relationship with his son, Casey, really made me swoon and wanted all the kids to have a father like that :)
I loved Sasha so much. I loved her in connection with Matthew but also in connection with Tessa and Julia, that made various appearances in the book. She was like a breath of fresh air, something different but so great for the book. She was so understanding, so kind and an example of trust. I came to think of her as being unreal, because all this qualities are very hard to find in a woman. She will teach Matthew how to start all over as a new man, living and feeling completely different than before. Of course she will also have her vulnerable moments, but at the end of the day, her love for Matthew will be greater than any insecurity she may have.
The book was exactly what I needed. The perfect mixture of great story and characters, with a plot that kept me intrigued. If I am not mistaken, Janet created her most hated villain. Lindsay was bitchy, gruesome, mean, revengeful, a lousy mother and wife, who cared only about her and her appearance. Being rich meant everything to her and when Matthew finally woke up and filled up for divorce, she was so twisted and sick and did everything in her power to prevent that from happening. I hated her so much and counted the pages until she could be punished as she deserves. The ending was quite satisfying for me and I continue to believe that she deserves MUCH more.
I totally recommend this book because it had a bit of everything. Janet's penmanship is amazing and I liked the way she combined the 3rd person POV with the descriptions and the dialogues, providing every bit of information and details that the reader would want.I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.
Not that I wasn't already in love with Samantha and ADORE her series, but her stand-alones are a surprise for me. They are literally the best medicineNot that I wasn't already in love with Samantha and ADORE her series, but her stand-alones are a surprise for me. They are literally the best medicine for all of your problems and even for reading slumps. I haven't had the best period lately and needed some stories to remind me why I love reading so much. "The Love Plot" reminded me precisely why I love Romance and a good comfort book.
This book has 2 tropes - fake dating and grumpy meets sunshine (or Star Shine). Rafe has had it with his family trying to hook him up with somebody and he needs a fake relationship in order to continue his life without constantly having to address this problem. After meeting Star at his niece's birthday party and seeing her dressed like a Disney princess, he was not very impressed by her, even if Faith kept on arranging for them to meet. When he hears that Star is a professional line sitter, he has this great idea - to help her win some money and transform her into his fake girlfriend. When Star agrees, they begin a very funny relationship, which of course will develop into something more, as they usually do.
Rafe comes from a family of good money and Star was raised by a hippie one. As you can understand, the difference is big and this will be one of their biggest problems, the way the outside world is seeing their relationship. Even if they try not to be affected by it, this will alter Star's perception of her upbringing and independence.
Star Shine is a special feminine character for me and if you ask me as a reader, one of Samantha's best characters. The way Star was portrayed, her light and her mindset are true examples of independence and happiness. Even if she was raised in a very strange way and her perception of love and relationship are seriously altered, Star is really amazing to watch. She has standards, but not money and professional life - she just wants to be happy.
On the other side, Rafe was a male character I seriously wanted in my life, because his upbringing, character, and loyalty were amazing. I don't have anything to write bad about him, because I was bewitched by him and by the way he developed his relationship with Star. He is direct and affectionate, he speaks his mind, and the way he perceives Star is amazing because he accepts her for who she really is, not trying to change her. Did I mention he is a vet? :D
I loved this book because of the vibe and the love story, of the connection between the characters which was not only physical but also spiritually. They connected so well and made me swoon almost non-stop. Their communication was on point, with some problems through the end, but they were such a good combo for me. Intense, sexy and deep, "The Love Plot" is a book about acceptance, not wanting to change your loved one and seeing them for their soul, not their upbringing or family ties. I loved it and recommend it dearly....more
I am totally in love with Samantha's series and this spin-off has the feels and heart of the original series. Although, I can say here style was more I am totally in love with Samantha's series and this spin-off has the feels and heart of the original series. Although, I can say here style was more intense in this book and I really enjoyed it because it went above the other books and created a unique atmosphere.
Walker and Sloane were predictable because you could feel their tension and chemistry from the other books, but their story really impacted me. I expected Walker to be that way, but Sloane surprised me. It is one of Samantha's patterns to go with powerful heroines, but seeing her this way, really impressed me and made me admire her. Single mom, the powerful lady that had to let go of her past and start over - everything in life was hard for her.
The 2 of them start their relationship in a casual way, but develop so strong feelings that you can really feel them from the page of your book. Walker is letting his walls down piece by piece and Sloane is letting somebody into her life and into her daughter's life, which is a very big deal.
Vs the other books, the story was well-paced and balanced. It had tension and it had thriller events throughout all of the story, not just only at the end. I liked this approach and considered it more suitable for my style because it broke a pattern that was getting predictable in the previous books. Now you had no idea what is going on and I like it a lot!!!!!
What can I say? The idea of a spin-off after 5 books in the same universe didn't seem like a good idea at the beginning, but it appears Samantha has ideas and a lot in store for her characters. All the stories are original and well handled and besides that, we get to see all the gang together again, which you will simply adore!!!
I recently read an interview with Penelope in which she told the readers that her writing and creative process are slow, but the result will be worthyI recently read an interview with Penelope in which she told the readers that her writing and creative process are slow, but the result will be worthy. Believe me, she was right:) I've read Corrupt last year and after that book I waited for her next one like air, wondering what will her new story be. Punk 57 is an amazing book with a strong message. I always focused on the book's message, even when the story is not very satisfying for me. But in this case, nothing went wrong, everything was flawless.
Misha and Ryen are our beloved heroes, 2 extremely opposite characters, that are both bad and good for each other. From the age of 11, they were penfriends. Their teachers paired them because they believed they have the same gender, due to the confusion of their names. Soon, they became best friends and continued to write letters to each other for 7 years. The odd element here is that they never talked on the phone or met in person, considering in this way that the magic will disappear and their friendship will be ruined. Until one night when everything will change. Intrigued yet? I really don't want to spoil anything because every detail that I provide will give you a lead on the story and it will be a shame to figure it out because of my enthusiasm for the book.
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There were 2 things that I loved about this book. One has to be the relationship between Misha and Ryen and the way it developed. I really liked the idea of them being penfriends, sharing secrets and intimate things that nobody knew about them. From sweet and loving, they developed not knowing into something much more than friends. They love each other but are not very aware of that from the beginning. When they are not good for each other, they are mean or say things they don't necessary feel and we have another side of their relationship that is not only sweet and butterflies. Misha is very tormented because of a certain lost he suffered and because of this, he is lost, without anybody to help him heal. Ryen is also lost. Lost in her never ending charade of being someone else just for the benefit of blending in and being accepted. I loved their interactions, the good and the bad ones. Both of them were intense, because they are 2 very passionate people when they love and hate someone. The fact that their love developed in this special way, firstly only by letters and after that physically, drawn me more to them and to the complexity of this story. We didn't have instant love, nope, we experienced a slow relationship based on feelings and connection, and after that the physical attraction was there to go full circle on their love story. The fact that they were 2 teenagers with real problems made me so aware of the second reason I loved this books.
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The awareness it raised to prevent kids from being bullied. Somewhere along this book I had the impression of reading "Bully" because it reminded me so much of Jared and Tate. In this book, aside of the constant push and pull that Misha and Ryen had, Penelope described a society were kids had to pretend in order to be accepted. Ryen did is daily, closing her eyes when certain things happen, or not making a stand against unfair things. The way some kids were treated because they were different or because some bullies thought they were different really took a toll on me and made me realize so many things, mostly because sometimes I acted the same. I had sometimes in which I wanted to act differently, or step up and tell exactly how I feel, but something kept me from doing it. Maybe the fear of being rejected, I don't know, but in this book you really open your eyes and realize how real everything is. So many kids are bullied in schools and because of this, a lot are left damaged in their trust and heart.
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I almost cried at certain paragraphs, because life is not fair to all of us and mostly because some consider them above others and things need to stop. I loved Penelope and this element she introduced firstly in Bully and now in Punk 57. If everyone will truly realize and do something about it, maybe there is a chance we will make a better world for all of us. A change can lie in different things, like in a message, a writing on the way, a word or an act. You just have to embrace your way of acting and send the message you want.
To conclude, Punk 57 is not only a love story, its a life lesson for so many of us, opening your eyes and making you aware of the reality that revolves around you. Maybe after reading this book, we will become better persons, or try to help other that may need it.
My relationship with this series has been so weird, I find it very hard to explain to you know that basically, I did not like the 3 books but loved thMy relationship with this series has been so weird, I find it very hard to explain to you know that basically, I did not like the 3 books but loved the 4th. It is odd, but this is my reality and I think Ana should have written one "Twisted Lies".
This book is the last installment of the series and it went down with a bang, because it was terrific, with suspense, dynamics, love, action, and drama. It had everything I needed and it became an addiction for me.
Stella is friends with Ava, Bridget, and Jules and this is her story. She is a fashion influencer, gorgeous, and extremely capable of taking over the world. Her beauty and kindness are her priciest possessions and I liked her from the beginning, even when reading the stories from other characters. She was truly kind, with a heart of gold and something, you think of her as naive, but you are wrong. She is just like that, with a caring heart and that energy is radiant, right through her.
We know Christian used to work with Rhys and that he is now a multimillionaire, having a huge security empire. He is rich and gorgeous and he reminded me a little of Alex because he is unfazed, but his presence is extremely intimidating. He is cold and calculated, but very well-built from the outside. The issue comes from the inside because Christian doesn't believe in love and was not raised in a loving way, for him to see this as a goal. Even so, he is obsessed with Stella and will do anything to maintain her near, harvesting that obsession.
The main plot of the book is fake dating. Why? In order to gain her dream contract, Stella will need to step up her game and gain some followers on her social media account. Having a boyfriend might be a solution, but she needs one with an impact. Coincidentally speaking, Christian also needs a beautiful figure to accompany him to his events, so the agreement was mutual. But, Stella will have no idea what is waiting for her and even though she had a strict rule - no falling in love, both will lose this game.
This book took such a toll on me and I love every minute of it. I loved Stella's kindness, and Christian's intensity and even if there were some aspects that I was not Ok with, the book easily made its' way into my Top 5 Romance of 2022.
I loved Christian and he definitely won me over with his obsession and love for Stella, and even if he is not 100% the good guy in the story, he is swoon-worthy material all the way. From this dialogue, to the way he treated Stella and ending to the manner he does business. He is not your average good guy - NO. He hides things and knows things, but that didn't stop me from falling for him.
I totally recommend this book and as a tip - if you don't like the "Twisted" books 1-3, you can directly skip to this one. You can thank me later. :D
I've been waiting for this book since last year because I love the Adair Series and I needed the final installment. Brodan has been a mystery since daI've been waiting for this book since last year because I love the Adair Series and I needed the final installment. Brodan has been a mystery since day one and his history with Monroe was fascinating for me to discover.
Brodan and Monroe have been friends since they were kids and all the stages of childhood and teenage were lived together are 1. Even if Monroe had a terrible crush on him, the timing was never right and as we knew from all the Adair brothers, the fear of losing someone was deep and strong. Because of this, Brodan didn't want to commit and wanted to keep Monroe as his best friend, only that. Years went by and after a night that was mentioned in mostly all of the books, Brodan and Monroe broke apart in the most heartbreaking way.
Now, the 2 of them need to face their past and try to solve the issues that kept them apart. it will be very complicated because Brodan is extremely bitter and will take a different persona vs de one we are already accustomed to when it comes to him. With Monroe coming back to Ardnoch after 18 years, the family will be in full alert mode, because it is clear that Brodan is affected and things will happen.
Why 4 stars only? First because of Brodan and the way he acted around Monroe. Rude is putting it mildly and I didn't like it at all. I know that there were issues between them, but a man cannot act like that around a woman. Their story is a second-chance romance, but I wanted something more intense and something more revealing. The book acted around the pattern as all of them and after reading all 5, I clearly wanted something new, in another direction or with another twist, than the usual.
The story was beautiful and emotional and I loved Monroe, mostly learning what happen to her and the abuses she went through. It was heartbreaking for a child to live that and even in adulthood, she has challenged and abusive relationships. I found her to be a charming lady and the way she handled Brodan was fair.
In total, the series was finalized in a beautiful way and of course, it could have been better. I particularly liked the epilogue for all the Adair brothers, it reminded me of the "On Dublin Street" series, where Samatha had the same approach.
I’ve been in a BAD reading slump for weeks and weeks and it was awful because I felt I was not going to get out of it. Furthermore, none of the books I’ve been in a BAD reading slump for weeks and weeks and it was awful because I felt I was not going to get out of it. Furthermore, none of the books caught my attention, even if I have stuffed bookshelves.
Things changed when I tried Samantha’s “Adair Family” because it reminded me so much of “On Dublin Street”. Considering it is one of my favorite series up to date, I just had to try it, to see if the vibe was there.
The vibe was certainly there and the series is my current obsession because I just can’t get enough of this family, of all the drama, and all the intensity happening around. Yes, I was attracted by the age gap trope, but at first, it was an innocent thought. Later it started to feel like an addiction and a very good trope to follow, it gave the book that extra spiciness.
So, “Here with me” is the first book in the series and it follows Robyn and Lachlan, a couple who first hated each other. Robyn came to Scotland, on the Ardnoch Estate, to have her father, Mac, back in her life. Their relationship was strained and she wanted to understand if there is any possibility that they can revive their bond and be the family she always wanted. In a nutshell, Mac dedicated his life to being the bodyguard and now chief of Security for Lachlan Adair, a very famous Hollywood actor.
After realizing that the movie industry is not entirely for him, Lachland transformed the family estate into a private club and was determined to make it work. When Robyn arrived there, everything he knew crumbled, because this girl was pushing all the buttons, but in an exasperated way. Robyn hated Lachlan, considered him the main reason her father left, and Lachlan wanted to protect Mac from getting hurt. So – drama, intensity, and a fantastic push and pull which just ERUPTED at a certain point in the story.
I liked Robyn so much because she is truly a badass. She is so feisty, so strong, and determined, that it blew my mind away. Not to mention that she is an ex-cop, so her training is more than awesome. Her past is hunted her and traumatizing memories are always finding a way of coming back, but she tries to move on. But apart from that, she knows when to be vulnerable, when to love and when to be strong. She is determined to find closure with Mac, even if that means both ways – figure things out and be a family again or end this and move back to the US. She is guarded with Lachlan, but up to a certain point and that is when his mask is gone, revealing his true nature.
Lachlan also suffered dearly in life, losing his parents in tragic circumstances. This fear of losing people he loves is in his bones and he is determined not to let anymore near him. Guarding his heart constantly, he always finds a reason to stay away from Robyn, until a point when he gives up. The 2 of them are hot heads and very similar, with fantastic interactions and dialogues. Even if they have an age gap of 13 years, I had noooo problem with that, on the contrary. He has siblings, who will be the main characters in the upcoming volumes – Thane, Arran, Brodan, and Arrochar, the only Adair women in the family. Just wait until you read their stories!!!
The story is very intense and it’s a mix between Romance and some Thriller elements because Lachlan will face some serious threats, putting in danger his business, but also his family. Being an ex-cop, Robyn will help in the investigation and will help Mac and Lachlan to find the person behind it. Things will get creepy and dynamic, with a lot of twists and life-threatening situations which will blend very well with the other aspects of the story. I was the perfect combo!!
I am recommending you this book and the other ones from the series because you cannot be bored here. All the time something happens, even if it’s good or bad. Drama, twist, spicy love stories, friendship, and family, all in a very intense series which I LOVE.
I won't lie and pretend that the show didn't bring me to this book, but whatever the motive, I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT. I read "An offer from a gentlI won't lie and pretend that the show didn't bring me to this book, but whatever the motive, I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT. I read "An offer from a gentleman" coming down from the hype of season 2 on Netflix, so all my enthusiasm was more intense and the story was certainty read in a more passionate way.
Benedict is my favorite Bridgerton and I fell for him almost instantly, because from all the brothers, he is closer to my heart in personality and way of living. He is an artist and this feature is making him more romantic than most. Plus, I think that Benedict has a problem of truly discovering who he is, so this uncertainty made him more down to earth, but also made him question life. Mostly, every brother has a dilemma or a problem, but the way they are facing them is very interesting to me.
We all saw how Anthony was coping with being the first in line and to urgently marry, so I was hoping not every brother had that weight on their shoulders. Benedict is called in a vial way - Number 2, and that alone upset me, because it's not faire at all for a person to be nicknamed like that.
This book was amazing and I've read it sooo fast, because I loved the vibe and the pace and the whole retelling of Cinderella. It was very amazing to read and it made my heart beat a little faster in some scenes, because they were emotional, swoon worthy and a truly representation of the Romance genre.
Sophy is a child made out of marriage between a lord and a maid. For society, that was unthinkable and Sophy was never to be recognize at legitimate. Because this is inspired by Cinderella, a stepmother will be in the picture, together with 2 stepsisters, who will practically transform Sophie into their personal slave after her father passing.
When the Bridgerton will organize a mascaraed ball, Sophie will make a mysterious appearance and will leave a magical impression on Benedict. Between the 2 of them something will arise, but the problem is that Benedict will have no idea who this mysterious lady is. From this point on, our favorite Bridgerton will search for this magnificent lady who stold his heart but never to find her again. His thoughts will remain solely on her and the night they shared a kiss.
I loved Sophie and Benedict together and consider them really worthy of being the leads in this book. Regarding Benedict, I think I rest my case, but Sophie was even more intense and her past was haunting her and never let her to be happy. Her childhood was darken by her stepmother and even if her position needed to be other, Sophie was always kept at the maid/service level, which was extremely not faire for such a lovely lady. She is well educated, funny and smart, but very afraid of letting her heart decide, because her mother did the same mistake and didn't end up well.
The story was amazing, really fast paced and not to mention intense, because the love scenes were mind blowing. I never imagined that people in that period were that passionate or that Julia has such an amazing imagination, but oh boy, they deliver exactly what they were supposed to. The story is portraying the difference between social layers and how people are not allow to love and be together.
The passion is there, the mystery, the funny elements and plus, all the gang is there, interacting and helping each other. The Bridgerton's are a force of nature and together, they can stand up to everything as long as they are united and love each other dearly.
There are books which you read at the perfect time, because otherwise you would have hate them. In my case, I read a lot of Penelope Ward, Vi Keeland There are books which you read at the perfect time, because otherwise you would have hate them. In my case, I read a lot of Penelope Ward, Vi Keeland or the 2 of them together, so in 90% of the cases I know what to expect, because I feel like I know them. When I started “Well Played” I didn’t even read the blurb, because I wanted to dive in blindfold and see how it goes. It was actually a good idea, one that I think I will adapt for other books as well.
“Well Played” was a 5 stars read for me, an addictive love story with various real life aspects which you may face. Presley is a single mon, raising her 7 year old, Alex, the best she possibly can. With a cheating dad, Alex is a very smart and witty boy, with an eye for sports, just like his father. But her story is not with her former lover, but with his brother, Levi. Yap, very complicated this strings were, because in real life, a story like this would cause havoc. When Presley and Levi end up under the same roof of their old family inn, first a war will start – Presley wants to reshape the inn and start a business in this area, but Levi just wants to sell and get on with his amazing sport career. BUT, things will change dramatically when Presley and Levi will begin to connect, Levi will get closer and closer to his nephew and they will begin thinking of perspective and maybe a future together. The only problem is Levi’s brother, Tanner, who will surely be MORE than upset about their relationship, especially because they have a history or rivalry. And when Tanner will want Presley back, all Hell will break loose.
So, that kind of wraps up the non spoiler summary, but I had to introduce you to the storyline. When talking about the characters, I can tell you that I wasn’t a fan of both characters, but in a way, I understood them and wanted for them to make it work. I admired Presley for raising Alex on her own and for trying her best to provide Alex and be a good mom to him. But she was confused and that was the thing I didn’t understand, because she is an adult and she could have certainly fight for the love with Levi. AND Levi was the same – Goood, you are an adult, you love her, so be a man and fight for what you think it’s good for you. I understood the situation, but considering Tanner’s history and what he made Presley go through, he should have make that decision with Presley, not for her.
But despite that, I fell for this drama, for their wrong decisions and for what they went through. I liked the tension, the stolen kisses and moments and I was convinced Levi will get his head from his ass and understand what he want to do. Yes, family is important, but it was not their fault and if in real life this happens, I really think that persons should fight for one another. I wanted them to be different, yes, but I think that because of those faults, I liked them and I was very emphatic and rooted for them to make the best decision.
It was really addictive, the love scenes were amazing and very well written and the drama, even if on some occasions was a little unnecessary, I loved it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I put it on the top of books this duo has ever released and I will certainly recommend it for Romance lovers.
I missed Penelope so much and her new book seemed different, but I couldn't be 100% sure only by reading the plot, I had to read the book entirely.
"TI missed Penelope so much and her new book seemed different, but I couldn't be 100% sure only by reading the plot, I had to read the book entirely.
"The Aristocrat" is not a very complex book, but the message and its essence is so strong, you understand immediately what was Penelope's purpose. You know, a lot of reviews don't work because every time they highlight the plot and not the message. Well, here it's loud and clear what you need to understand - put your duties second and live for yourself and for the person you love, take chances and don't be afraid, because you cannot turn back time and change your mistakes and actions. It's not a clisee or a love song, it's an actual fact which I approve of.
Leo and Felicity defined love at first sight in this book, 2 characters coming from different worlds who had no chance being apart. I loved their open minds and the way they interacted both in funny situations and intense ones. Their sincerity with one another and they passion was very well built and I loved that there were no secrets between them, even if "forbidden" was written all over.
I loved the way the plot was going, I almost cried when realizing how cruel fate can be when the timing is not right but I also understood the power and the effects of waiting too long for a thing you crave for.
This story is about people who learnt to take a chance and got what they wanted or for people who are still waiting for their second chance. This book is a journey and I devoured it in about a day, because I couldn't leave it aside. It's sexy, romantic, funny and heartbreaking, all in a beautiful story with beautiful people. READ IT!!!!!...more
This book was by far the funniest I've read in a while. I previously enjoyed "The Beautiful" series, but this book was nothing like that. Even if it hThis book was by far the funniest I've read in a while. I previously enjoyed "The Beautiful" series, but this book was nothing like that. Even if it had hot moments, it was the perfect read for a vacation or just lying on the beach and not doing anything. Ethan and Olive stole my heart with their personalities and jokes and way of being around each other and I rooted for them very much, considering they were meant to be a long time ago. As a joke, I could see myself in Ethan's obsession for not eating at the hotel's buffet or catching something which might give him a cold or a stomach illness. It was fun, easy to read and captivating, with a slight drama step, but nothing serious to worry about. You will love it!!...more
For me this series was a true surprise, a fantastic read which I will miss. I started these books by thinking I will receive simply a thrilling experiFor me this series was a true surprise, a fantastic read which I will miss. I started these books by thinking I will receive simply a thrilling experience, with police-like cases and detective vibes, but I received so much more. The characters were amazing, both good and bad, their development was visible and I got so attached that the ending really hurt. Audrey and Thomas will ever remain a power couple for me, one that I love dearly and will continue to find iconic for this genre.
In “Capturing the Devil“, the last book in the series was both personal and professional, if you want to put it that way, because it focuses a lot on Audrey and Thomas and their relationship. They put their feelings on second place for so long, that I think they really deserved a break from criminals and just enjoy their love. Their relationship was a twister of emotions, amazing scenes, funny dialogues and WOW moments, which will leave your heart melting for them. In terms of emotions and twists, this is the book to read when you want to feel an evolution in their relationship and see how much they grew up. It’s amazing to see them fully committed and in love.
40 Stalking Jack the Ripper ideas | stalking, audrey rose, stalking jack the ripper On the professional side, there is no room for the wicked and evil will be on their tail. It was more dark than any other book, because the “dark side” will hunt Audrey wherever she goes, affecting her stability and emotions. I can’t spoil much of the plot, but just consider the first book and don’t think we know the truth. Only know things will become full circle and Audrey and Thomas will begin to realize that all loose ends they left in England will come to follow them, searching to finish what the real criminal started. It was creepy, with a lot of explicit scenes, but at the end of the day, this series is not Romance, it’s Thriller.
Audrey was the main focus here. She evolved in such a fine lady, fierce and strong. Her eagerness to be independent will make her follow her heart but also her mind, and she will leave society rules aside in order to gain it. She needs to be seen and to show her capabilities, but also, she needs to be loved, rules be damned. The difference between Audrey Rose from Jack The Ripper and this Audrey Rose is visible and it can be admire in all of her splendor, because she is truly a remarkable character to watch. I was blown away by her courage and strength and amazed by her new perspective.
Thomas was a whole new character in this book, more vulnerable but in the same time more ahead and outspoken, ready to face anything in order to have Audrey. This Thomas was bolder, more passionate and managed to surprise me with this attitude and suggestions, which implied that even at the age of 18, when you want something, you don’t sit and wait, you go and get it for yourself. I liked this discovery and Thomas was really surprising.
Concluding, read the series and focus on this book, a wonderful conclusion to what Audrey and Thomas have been fighting for. Their courage and love will eventually be rewarded, but the journey will take some time. Be patient, the outcome will be satisfying. ...more
I think I already state my case regarding this series. I love it!!!!! I love the characters, the scenario, the plot and all the murders and vibe this I think I already state my case regarding this series. I love it!!!!! I love the characters, the scenario, the plot and all the murders and vibe this books are giving me. I fell in love with the mystery around Jack the Ripper and afterwards I couldn’t stop reading the series because the action was SO good and all the villains were popular and intriguing.
Audrey Rose, her uncle Jonathan and Thomas are traveling to New York in the luxurious RMS Etruria and they believe their journey will be a pleasant one. Apparently, wherever they go trouble follows and when the Moonlight Carnival holds its famous show every night, tragedy strikes. All the murders are copies of the tarot cards, each one a replica hiding clues and more mystery. Audrey and Thomas team up again and will do anything to catch the killer until they arrive at their destination, not willing to risk bringing a murderer on American lands.
This book is more mature than the others, more elaborated and more focused on morbid details. The crimes and descriptions were marvelously done by Kerri, who has an outstanding imagination in this area. Amazing by her side was the way she connected facts with history and made her personal blend, adding characters who caused trouble and confusion in the heart of our main characters. Houdini, Mephistopheles and many others were perfectly drafted and inserted with precision in the plot. I loved the riot, the tension and all the chapters which ended dramatically, only making the reader to be more invested in the story.
thomas cresswell loves you (@cressweIIthomas) | Twitter Audrey Rose was very challenged in this book, having many decisions to make from a professional but also a personal perspective. Again, she wants to make the good thing and protect the people she loves, being ready to do everything in her hands to achieve it. She will be confused, but also free in the heart of the Moonlight Carnival team and this will cost her. No good thing will come when mixing business with pleasure and her heart will suffer when doing this.
Her relationship with Thomas will be tested and what impressed me the most was Thomas willingness to let her go or to let her decide in case she is not interested in him anymore. He has given her the freedom to be herself and to act as she desired. He put her happiness first and he won many points in that matter. Not that he needed extra credits to win my heart over.
This book was second best after Jack The Ripper because it brought extra darkness and more drama into the scene. Also the plot was more intense, more well built and the attention to details was impressive, being very faithful to reality, the circus life and magical world of illusions. Many autopsies were held and I was very happy about it. Great book and more mature, a very fun and entertaining read....more
The second book from the Audrey Rose series came with a surprise - the location of the book is in Romania, my home country. I know that Romania is famThe second book from the Audrey Rose series came with a surprise - the location of the book is in Romania, my home country. I know that Romania is famous for the Dracula legends, although not all of them are true, just a result of folklore and some historical things that were driven out of context and became very commercial for our tourism. Nevertheless, it was fun reading about Bucharest and Brasov and seeing how all the names were mostly Romanian.
After the happenings with Jack The Ripper and the traumatic events which Audrey lived, her father decided to sent her to one of the best forensic schools is Europe. Where? In Romania. Alone? No, with Thomas by her side. So, together they begin another adventure, this time outside of London's comfort and familiarity. Romania is very different from what Audrey imagined, a place driven by traditions and legends, and exactly like in her home country, women don't seem to belong in a forensic school. This thing was the least of Audrey's problems, because soon after entering Romanian territory, she and Thomas witnessed a crime in the Orient Express they travelled, a crime which was linked to Dracula, the body being impaled and having a powerful smell of garlic. From this point on, Audrey and Thomas have to deal with their activity at the Institute and solving a case which seems to pin point the return of Prince Dracula.
Audrey and Thomas were very strong in this story, and not only at the good aspects. Audrey was facing PTSD from what happen to Jack The Ripper and unfortunately, Thomas was not very helpful in that aspect, even if his best intentions were to help her heal. Besides that, Audrey is having a hard time coping with her colleagues, because everybody is looking at her strangely, being a girl. Nobody is seeing her has a very intelligent and potentially brilliant detective and forensic, they only see she is female and judge. The professors are harsh, the kids are cold, but she keeps on fighting to prove them wrong.
Audrey and Thomas fight, but they also have lovely and tender moments, and their status is slowly changing to friends/partners to more than that. Thomas is dealing with his Romanian roots and struggles to find his own identity and in the same time help Audrey solve this twisted case. When other bodies are found dead and drained out of blood, everybody believed Dracula is getting near by the second. New characters will be introduced, family links that are very nice to watch and the plot will be built nicely around them.
Why only 4 stars? Because the book was longer than the actual point of interest. There were many chapters without sense of usage and I think the plot was longer than it meant to be. Furthermore, the case built up to a boiling point, but when the time to unravel everything came, the result was kind of disappointing. I would have imagined something more dramatic, a more worked over finale, considering the many clues and murders that took place and which could be used in other constructive ways. It was unnecessarily long and had some blank and mostly boring moments. :( ...more
I’ve been looking for a good Thriller book with history happenings. After searching my bookshelves I came across this one, a story which from unknown I’ve been looking for a good Thriller book with history happenings. After searching my bookshelves I came across this one, a story which from unknown reasons I’ve been postponing. It was very wrong from my side and I am very happy to have discovered Audrey Rose and Thomas, because my need for an adventure was killing me.
Back in the XIX century, the women role is society was very clear – smile, be beautify and obedient and get a husband as soon as possible. Ballrooms, dresses and tea parties were girls best friends, but not Audrey’s. This girl liked to get her hands dirty, in the realistic way of the word. She is her uncle apprentice and she like autopsies, loves to discover the human body from the inside. Of course, this activity is ultra secret, because no one can imagine a girl as elegant as her can do such a thing. Therefore Audrey escapes at night, far from her brother and dad’s eye and does what she likes most – forensics. I have to admit, I saw myself in Audrey Rose because this was my passion too, as a child and I loved biology and anatomy very much, almost to the point of dreaming to become a doctor.
Returning to Audrey Rose, she will become involve in the quest for Jack The Ripper, a very cruel and vicious murderer who looks after single women and mutilates them. This violent acts will be pursued by the police, but Audrey will lead an investigation of her own, after seeing that maybe things are linked to one another and she can help discovering the killer and seeking justice for the lives he took. With the help of Thomas, the second apprentice of her uncle, they will discover something more than the truth, something very nice and hopefully, forever.
Audrey is very mature for her age, at 17 years old to be passionate about autopsies is a great deal and this maturity will help her unravel the truth about Jack The Ripper. The implications are great and she might be in danger of losing her life, but her intelligence and stubbornness will help her see all clearly. Her passion and somehow naivety are very fun to watch and in combination with Thomas, everything is delightful. Speaking of Thomas, I don’t think I’ve read in the last period about a character such as charming as he is. He is so funny and his lack of modesty is appealing, with intelligent hook-up lines and ironic remarks. He will be by Audrey Rose every step of the way, because he wants to help, to protect and to love her. A very well educated gentlemen, he reminds me of Jane Austen’s heroes and that funny shyness present everywhere. Besides that, he is a very visionary and intuitive young men, putting all the pieces of the puzzle together in no time. They complete each other really well and their chemistry is palpable.
The couple is a delight, a very cute and passionate Holmes and Watson, and even if the call each other by their last name, I know their dynamics will change and they will become closer by each book. I truly recommend it because even if some details might be graphic, the plot is very intelligently built and you get involve in the investigation with Audrey Rose and Thomas. Besides that, this book is a very important part of the feminist movement, because Audrey is the key figure to women finding their voice and not being just a pretty object for men to display. She likes to be equal to men and will take upon a detective job and do it better because she is fearless....more
I've been trying to start this book 3 times now and always put it on hold. Why? No idea... Maybe the beginning was difficult, maybe I was not in the rI've been trying to start this book 3 times now and always put it on hold. Why? No idea... Maybe the beginning was difficult, maybe I was not in the right mood, but God, I deeply regret it. My favorite duo did it again in a very emotional book, a true-life story where reality is always present. The perks of reading Fiction are that you get to live in a perfect world, a comfortable haven you design for yourself. "Hate Notes" is not this way, or at least the second half of the story.
Charlotte Darling and Reed Eastwood are by far a strange couple, but they click in a very odd and good way. They are portrayed in total antithesis, but when taken apart, they are wonderful. Reed is a very successful real estate investor and Charlotte is still trying to find her professional path. When Charlotte finds a post-it inside a wedding dress in a vintage shop, she is amazed by the message and the owner of it. Soooo, she looks for Reed on Google and arranges a meeting with him, saying that she wants to see one of the properties which are for sale. The whole meeting goes extremely wrong, so their first encounter was a disaster. However, things are not over yet and Charlotte and Reed will certainly see each other again soon, but as boss and assistant.
This is the premise of the story and I have to warn you, this is a slow-burn love story, almost extremely slow. The book is split in 2, before and after, and you get to see how they interact, how the friendship and attraction are building, and afterward, how they manage to get their HEA.
Their love story is forbidden, off limits, but this is what makes them unique. Reed is grumpy and exaggerated and broken-hearted, while Charlotte is totally different, a little weird, but happy and optimistic. They are extremely different and you are constantly wondering how they will end up together.
The reason this book shook me so much is a reason I cannot reveal because it will be a massive spoiler. But I am telling you, it is a very heart-warming/broken motive, which will leave you breathless. It will make you dive into different scenarios in real life and question what would you have done in the characters' place. The whole plot shifts from happiness to reality and it will transform the book into something so present, you will feel lost. Personally, I have never imagined that Penelope and Vi would introduce such a plot, but once more, they proved me wrong.
Read "Hate Notes" and give this story a chance to amaze you, just like it did with me. :)
For the first time in a while I have mixed feelings after reading a book. When I feel like I need a relaxing book, I always look for a light plot, to For the first time in a while I have mixed feelings after reading a book. When I feel like I need a relaxing book, I always look for a light plot, to keep me away from things that are not ok for me. Mia Sheridan is always my “shelter author”, because her stories are full of love, compassion and joy, making me believe in a world were love can conquer basically everything. “Once we were starlight” looked like a relaxing book, but it was NOT. I think that up to date, it is one of the most complex and risky from her “repertoire” because you can see how she wanted to raise awareness and involve us in a love story we could follow, but react in the same time because of the happenings. This is a life lesson with capital letters, strictly because of the plot, but even if it’s painful to even imagine being in a scenario like that, the love story of this book was fantastic and I have no words do describe it. Only Mia could break your heart and put it together again like this.
A bed posed on a stage under a dazzling spotlight. An audience of hungry eyes. And him, the other half of my soul, our supple bodies moving as one . . . Sundara: the lush and forbidden oasis in the desert where men travel to watch acts of sexual deviancy, and the only existence seventeen-year-old Karys has ever known. But despite a life where secrets and sin are in high supply, and freedom remains far beyond their reach, Karys and her partner Zakai find safety in each other, their passionate love the light that helps them both survive the darkness.
Karys and Zakai have been living in Sundara all their lives, surrounded by what they called as family, but also curios eyes who attend their show. Being part of this community is no strange to them, but considering their age, everything is wrong an twisted. Minors, brought here without any recollection of their past, the 2 of them were merely entertainers from a full chain or organization which has only one scope: human sex trafficking. But, in this horrible place, Karys and Zakai have each other, and even if many consider they are too young to fall in love, their hearts belong to one another irrevocably. You can say that a trauma brought them together, but wrong – life brought them together and in a way, sheltered them from other who wanted more than they could offer.
Karys was the soft one, the dreamer and the girl who thought love can heal everything. Being a child when brought to Sundara, this was her home and Zakai the other half of her star. Even if we are not witness of their falling in love, we find them stronger than ever, in a place so wrong for their pure hearts. Her thirst for knowledge and her loyalty towards Zakai were impressive and I loved reading things from her POV, because her pure and naïve mind was breaking my heart too. The way she expressed about simple things, objects, extremely familiar to us, but foreign to her, was shattering and that innocence is worth reading and hoping that something good will come for her. Zakai on the other hand, being more mature and more direct in approach, is more aware of his surroundings and tries to find a way to match reality with lies. His love for Karys is as strong as hers and his devotion is limitless, from my POV amazing for a boy that young. Mature, but in the same time innocent, the 2 of them are victims of evil and wicked, of people who exploit them emotionally but also physically in order to gain money.
There are a lot of topics which Mia inserted in the book, beside a wonderful love story. Her connections are always strong and you can always feel the love radiating from the characters, but putting them into this environment changed too much the scenario, leaving the reader without breath. She challenges us to imagine such a plot, to think and live alongside the characters and maybe see what we would do in their spot. The changing of scenario was very confusing for Karys and Zakai and she put an accent on PTSD and the effects it could have on children taken from a world they always knew and brought all of a sudden in an unknown one. We should also focus on the one who rise, make a carrier or find purpose in something which once, made them suffer. The focus on taking a certain path and making mistakes is highly pointed out and I felt so sorry for Karys and Zakai because of their choices and what lead to them. Of course, you would have to read the book, but concentrate more on the moral part of the story.
After that, of course, we are talking about the aspect that started it all, human sex trafficking, which had an effect on all aspects of our characters life and love story. I think that even if Mia brought this subject in the story, she wanted her readers to understand the gravity and importance of making a difference, even if writing a review about the book and outlining the plot with this subject. For example, it made me open Google and search, and what I read devastated me. I will let you a link here, only 1 of the various sources I found. The aspects which shocked me most?
Estimates suggest that, internationally, only about .04% survivors of human trafficking cases are identified, meaning that the vast majority of cases of human trafficking go undetected.
Human trafficking earns global profits of roughly $150 billion a year for traffickers, $99 billion of which comes from commercial sexual exploitation.
So, as you can see, Mia gave Karys and Zakai story a twist, considering the majority of the victims don’t have such luck. I really admired her courage and I think this is what a book should teach you to do. You have a brilliant love story but you also have a message, a strong and documented one which deserves all the focus and chance in the world because it is out there for everybody to read and to talk about. Sundara is not a fantasy place, it is not the Night Court or The Institute in NY, is something real, where real people get hurt and suffer. I would like to say to Mia that her message managed to be loud and clear and please do not feel afraid or discouraged because of this topic, it has hit its mark in a very impressive way and I think that all of her readers will say the same. ...more
I missed so much reviewing one of Sarah’s book, and “A Court of Silver Flames” was out, I found myself in the position of actually having it on my kinI missed so much reviewing one of Sarah’s book, and “A Court of Silver Flames” was out, I found myself in the position of actually having it on my kindle for me to enjoy. It was an excitement like no other and in less than 5 days I finished the story, reading like crazy with every chance I’ve got. When I began the first chapters it really hit me how much I’ve missed all this universe, the characters (Rhys!!!!!!!!!!!), the plot and everything revolving around it. I’ve read “A Court of Frost and Starlight” as the last installment, but let’s be serious, it was just an appetizer, something to keep you breathing until the real deal comes out.
I was never a fan of Nesta, although I like Cassian very much and he intrigued me a lot, wanting to see how his story develops and to get to know him more, at a personal level. My attention was solely on Rhys in the first trilogy, but now, having these 2 as main characters, your focus changes and you pay more attention to them and to all the details. After reading the book, I really think I was right about Nesta, that her exterior was exactly what she managed to sent through, but after certain events and lots of love, people can change if they have the right incentive.
I consider that Nesta was never something different from what she portrait to be, she was straight forward, sometimes cruel, but that was her upbringing and considering everything that happened, she couldn’t turn up in other way. Her association to the Fae world and the change within her was the starting point, but it was a vicious ride, full of false appearances and glimpses of the real her. When Feyre is more than tired about her sister behavior and irrational spending on account of the Night Court, she sends Nesta to train with Cassian at the House of Wind. Of course Nesta was not OK with the decision and made Cassian’s life a living hell, because she was not a warrior, she didn’t fully embrace the Fae life and that was not her focus. She was still traumatized by the war, by her fathers dead and their transformation, so the path she embraced was to just be numb and not feel anything. She fully took upon herself to make everybody hate her, including Cassian and her sisters, as punishment for what she believes she did. This will be the starting point of the story, a story which finds Nesta on full display, showing us how she managed her emotions, her relationship with Feyre and Elain, her love life with Cassian, but most of all, the powers she took from the Cauldron which was burning inside her and more than gladly wanted to rise and destroy. This will be the trigger to the story which finds Nesta in full bloom, using her powers to stop another war from happening.
Nesta and Cassian were very different from Feyre and Rhys. The first pair is mostly driven at the beginning by an atomic chemistry and sexual tension, while the second had chemistry, but not that explosive. There were more lured in by an invisible connection, which bonded them and never let go. Both of them are super, mega, awesome, but I remain faithful to my fist love. ...more
I think we all missed Sarah and her beautiful stories. I was waiting like air to read another story written by her because they are amazing and they oI think we all missed Sarah and her beautiful stories. I was waiting like air to read another story written by her because they are amazing and they offer you a comfort like no other. I love Fantasy and the genre crafted by Sarah is unique, sexy and breathtaking, offering you all the elements you need to have a fantastic read. While waiting for "A Court of Silver Flames" to go live, I took the liberty of choosing "House of Earth and Blood" and loved every minute of it because it was addictive and introduced some sparks in the story which took my breath away.
This book was a challenge for me because of the length and complexity. The starting point was on low energy from my POV, because I had so many elements to get used to. Her universe is HUGE and all the relationships and history and houses and so on are extremely confusing. I needed a time to assimilate everything and put 2 and 2 together. Once you manage to surpass that, you are good to go because the story flows gently and everything makes sense. :)
Bryce Quinlan is our heroine, one full of surprises. She is half human, half fae and her existence is apparently a dull one, without any responsibilities. This is only a façade, because she is so much more than than but she doesn't want to let people into her life and feelings. It's better to be unnoticed than hated and every time in full view. When her best friend Danika si killed by a demon, her life is put on hold and all she knew stops. Without a joy or purpose, she is lost, adrift in guilt and tragedy. She is like a time bomb, waiting to explode any minute now. Things will change when Hunt Athalar, a fallen angel, will enter her life and the 2 of them will have to work together to investigate Danika's murder and all the reasons behind it. The stake is high here - Bryce can continue with her life if this crime is solved and Hunt can let his past behind him and continue his life, free, without the slave mark on this forehead.
Their relationship is a terrible torturing slow burn, because they have this connection but they are desperately trying to fight it. Both have scars which run deep and love is not on the menu for none of them. Bryce cannot surpass Danika's death and the emptiness it let on her soul and Hunt is hunted by his lost love and right, being made into a slave without no will. This mission will solve their problems and they need to stay focused, without any distractions. At the beginning working together was hard, but after that it became something natural and vital for their existence. It was cute seeing them act very normal and comfortable around each other and you could feel the pull between them. They evolved so much and were put in some drastic situations which needed they whole strength and faith.
Bryce was amazing, evolving and shining in all the scenes, a bad ass fae with sooo many surprises and WOW moments. I never had the impression that I know her completely, because she was constantly changing and offering us amazing moments. She can fight, love, be faithful, be a good friend and hate with the same intensity. Hunt had some work to do to keep up the pace but he really tried. He was also a good hero, but he will have to work HARD in the next book to be her equal. He had an excuse, because he left behind a war which took everything from him and he needs to find a way to heal.
Besides the main characters, I loved the secondary ones, they were amazing and involved in so many wonderful scenes which left me full of joy, but also heartbroken. Ruhn, Lehabah or Syrinx were delightful and 100% involved in the plot. They fit there so good and I couldn't imagine the story without them, being important pawns in the action and in Bryce's evolution as well. Even though I read like 1.000 pages, the story was not boring, the characters were amazing and all this universe that Sarah built was thrilling, full or surprises and so much fun to follow. Loved it!!! ❤️❤️❤️
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