Meli Mel's Book Reviews

♥ ♥ ♥ 4.25 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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“Three years ago, curious little Erika Fane wanted to play with the boys, so we indulged her, and she betrayed us. There was no way we'd forget.

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What. A. Book!! How do I even review a book like this one? Like seriously! This book was crazy good. I would say it was more of a thriller with an intense and twisted story line than actually dark, though. I started off reading this book not knowing what to expect and I think this the perfect way to get into this one. You should definitely just dive into this book without reading any reviews because I think you will get a better experience from it.

Rika Fane is tired of feeling trapped and controlled. She wants to get the reins back of her life, so she has decided to go away to college and live on her own. She just needs to breathe and be herself, something she has done since that one night years ago with Michael.

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"Such a good girl...
Say it, Rika."
"I'm a good girl," she panted, her voice shaky.
"And I'm going to fuck you up."

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Rika has known Michael Crist and his family her whole life. Michael has always been scary yet intriguing to her. She is drawn to him even though she knows she should stay away. Still, she falls for him despite him always overlooking and pushing her away. Rika saw something in him, something mysterious that she wanted to uncover. But, that was in the past. After what happened, she wants nothing to do with Michael and his friends, Kai, Will, and Damon. She just wants to be left alone. However, unbeknownst to her, Michael has her exactly where he wants her, in his building. He will get his revenge for what she did to his friends that night. No one gets away with betraying them. They will ruin her.

My feelings were pretty much all over the place with this book. There were some parts that were a bit hard to read through. Some things made me mad, others scared the ever-loving crap out of me. It was fast paced, and the things that happened. No matter what, though, I couldn't seem to put this book down. And when I did, it was all I could think about. I enjoyed the originality of the story. I liked seeing the characters grow. Especially Rika, because when she was younger, she kind of annoyed me a bit. But as she grew, she became stronger. Although, I really wanted her the make them work for her forgiveness. It kind of happened a little too fast for me. Then there was this one scene that I was totally not expecting but really liked. It was hot and sexy, and seemed to come out of no where, but again, I'm not complaining. All it left me with is a deep craving for Kai's book. I freaking hope he gets one and soon. The last part of this book was really good and it had me on the edge of my seat. The ending was good too, and it fit the tone of the story very well.

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'He was everything.
My entire life, I only felt completely alive when he was close, and while I knew nothing would ever be easy with him, I also knew nothing would ever be good without him, either.'

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Overall, this was a book that you will love and hate. Just how I loved and hated Michael at the same time. The events in this book are twisted, kinky, and just plainly effed up which is why it definitely won't be for everyone. Still, I was unable to put it down, I was that engrossed in it. This may be different from anything that Penelope Douglas has ever written, but I think she did a great job with it. If dark and twisted romances are your thing, then I definitely recommend you give this one a read.





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♥ ♥ ♥ 4.25 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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“Do you have any idea what men would do to possess beauty like this?" he asked, shaking his head. "And, here I am, holding it."

Holy lord.

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After a friend of mine suggested I give this a read, I decided to read the blurb. And then I found out what exactly a sex surrogate does and I was like "What the what?". It definitely caught my attention and that is putting it mildly. I was so intrigued that I could not wait to begin.

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“Fuck me," he said, bringing a hand up to the side of my face for a second. "You're perfect just how you are, okay? Don't let anyone try to convince you otherwise." He paused. "Not even yourself."

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Ava is finally seeking the professional help that she needs. She is a young woman that is doing pretty well for herself. She lives with an annoying and very nosy roommate named Jake, and has a career. So, for the most part her life is good. Well except when it comes to her sex life. Ava hasn't gone through a traumatic event or anything like it, yet still she suffers from a disorder where she gets anxiety and can't seem to sexually connect with anyone when is start to get real. She is tired of not being able to feel aroused with a man, let alone come. Now she will have Dr. Chase Hudson to help her out.

Chase is a sex therapist and sex surrogate. His job is to teach Ava how to become comfortable in her own skin in front of any man she chooses. He tries to help her anxiety lessen until it's non existent. As soon as Ava and Chase meet, however, you can feel the attraction between them. With each session they have, where Chase makes Ava finally feel something from just kissing and touching, lines begin to blur for Ava. She starts to develop feeling for Chase, and there are moments that seem like he may feel the same way.

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“This is my spot,” I declared, tapping his chest with my hand.
His other arm went around me, his lips kissing the top of my head. “Yeah, baby, it is,” he agreed.
“Safest place in the world,” I murmured, drifting slowly off to sleep.

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The story itself was unlike anything I had ever read, which is what made it all the more interesting to me. It began a bit on the slow side for me, but soon after things picked up and I really enjoyed it. I loved the connection between them but it did happen a little too fast for me. I also definitely enjoyed the sensuality of their sessions. It was well written--well except for a few typos-- that it never became awkward or uncomfortable. I liked watching Ava grow and become more sexually sure and just overall more confident. Seeing Ava fall for Chase was really great, I just wish she would have said how she felt sooner. But I became quite engrossed in the story that I didn't want to put it down. I also really liked the secondary characters that added a humourous element to the story. Jake, her roommate, was such a jerk at times, but it was great to see him grow as well and become a better friend to Ava. Overall, this was a very enjoyable and unique read. The only thing I can say is I wish it were longer, and that we could have had at least one chapter in Chase's POV to get to know him better. I also would have liked an epilogue or something to see how what the future held for them. But other than that, I was great.



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♥ ♥ ♥ 5 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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“Zaal Kostava, you've stolen my forbidden heart."

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When I read Raze, I loved it. It was dark and crazy, but so good. When I heard there was a second book in the series, I was ecstatic but I was also really scared that this one wouldn't be as good. I am so glad that my worries were for nothing because I actually enjoyed this one a lot more.

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'Talia Tolstaia. My Talia Tolstaia.
I tried to find hate. I tried to despise.
I only found warmth.
It was her warmth. She was mine.
She had cleansed me. Cared for me. Cried for me. She was...for me.'

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Zaal Kostava has been 221 for as long as he can remember. He knows nothing about his past, he only knows that he has to kill for Master. Luka Tolstaia feels like he is indebted to Anri Kostava, because of him he survived. Now Luka will do whatever he can to pay him back and get revenge for him. After finding out that Anri has a brother in the same situation they were in, he will not stop until he saves him too. When Talia wants a bit of an escape from the Bratva life, she heads to their home in the Hamptons. Only for her time away to be disturbed when her brother Luka shows up with a savage man being hauled into their basement. She can't believe that the man is a Kostava, he is from the family her family hates. She needs to stay clear of him. But, every time she sees him through their security cameras, the more she seems to be drawn to him. The heavy drugs he was on are wearing off, and the true man he is begins to resurface. No matter what she tells herself, there is no way she is leaving him alone.





This story was beautiful and captivating. I found myself not being able to stop turning the pages. I absolutely loved Zaal. He made me swoon and melt so damn hard. It was hard to see him struggle with his memories since he seemed to be stuck in a fog after the drugs left his system. He was vulnerable but strong and possessive. He was just so awesome. Talia was a pretty strong heroine as well. She was patient and caring towards Zaal, something that was so novel to him since he has only been hurt by his Master. It was so heart warming to see them grow closer to one another. I could feel the connection between them so strongly that I couldn't get enough. I also really liked how Talia stood up for Zaal, when no one ever had.

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“You are… for me. No other male. Just me. And me… for you. This is my ‘I love you.’ These are my words from my scarred soul. They are not borrowed words, but words from my full heart, and my heart only.”

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This book was so great. It wasn't as dark and raw as Raze, but it wasn't fluffy either. It was a gritty emotional read, but the heaviness was elevated by the heart warming romance between Talia and Zaal. The story line was very interesting and the turns it took made it only so much better. I highly recommend this one. I just can't say enough how much I loved it. The ending has left me craving the next installment. I already have some theories of who that mystery woman could be, so I can't wait. I really hope that the next one will be as good the previous two.



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♥ ♥ ♥ 3 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

Well this was a highly anticipated book for me. I love this series, so when I found out Painter was getting a book, not gonna lie, I was freaking excited.

The book started off in a good way. It started with Painter getting really angry at seeing Melanie with a biker guy. I didn't know what the hell was going on but I knew one thing, Painter was ready to claim his woman. The book then goes back in time to when Painter was in prison. The only way he seemed to survive the time he was there was by reading the letters Melanie wrote to him. But once he is out, he decides that Melanie deserves a better man so he ignores her. Melanie tries to do just that but every time she does Painter ruins it.

Eventually Painter gives into his feelings and wants to try to make something work with Melanie. However his decisions ends up costing him everything. He just hopes Melanie will stay by his side after he screwed up.

The book continues on with time passing into years. We see how the characters change and become a bit more grown up. I really enjoyed the start of this book. I liked the chemistry between Painter and Melanie. Yes, Painter could at times be a jackass but the way he started to fall for her made me melt. I loved that these two started out as friends, then watching that tension between them grow and explode was so awesome. I liked Melanie, but there were also things that slightly annoyed me about her. Still, I didn't mind her and really appreciated the lengths she would go to protect her loved ones. Painter I also liked, but he wasn't without flaws. There were many times I wish he would have just man up already. He did improve in that aspect later on, which I was happy about.

Unfortunately though, I was hoping something would happen that would solidify them as a couple for me. Because if you add up all the time they actually spent together, it wasn't much. So I wanted more of them getting to know each other, or something that would strengthen their connection. I just didn't feel like it happened until the very end, and that left me a bit disappointed because then the book was over. They got together too fast in the beginning and then time was passing by as well. I guess I just wanted more romance between them. The sex was hot and all, but I wanted more scenes where you could see them emotionally connected. The story line involving the Reapers was pretty good though. It definitely made things a lot more interesting. Overall, I did enjoy the book despite it all. I thought it was a good read. I didn't love it like I was hoping but that's okay, it happens. I'm still very much excited to read Gage's book. I seriously cannot wait.



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♥ ♥ ♥ 3.5 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

I'm not going to lie, that cover and that blurb totally got me that I just had to read this one. While in the end I did like the book, I unfortunately did not love it as I had hoped that I would.

Elizabeth is a preschool teacher that comes from a wealthy family. She is quite the introvert and uptight. She dreams of finding the man of her dreams and settling down to start a family. Unfortunately, that hasn't happened for her yet. In the beginning of the book, she goes to a strip club where her friend is having her bachelorette party. Right of the back she lets you know how much she hates being there. She doesn't find anything remotely sexy about scantily clad men grinding around and on women. She can not wait to get out of there. And that right there, was what put me off of Elizabeth. I thought she was too prudish for my taste which is why I just couldn't connect with her.





Then she sees Matt across the room, and she is instantly consumed by lust for him. There is something different and mysterious about him that lures her in. She resists, however, and tries to ignore what she feels. Matt notices her as well, and ends up challenging her to give the club a second try. She is to come to his club Bare Assets twice a week for a whole month so she can watch all the shows from start to finish. Elizabeth doesn't like backing down from a challenge so she agrees. Each moment she is in his club, the attraction between them seems to grow in intensity until they can't hold back. Matt isn't her dream man, but she will allow herself to loosen up a bit and enjoy him. Meanwhile, Matt knows he will never be good enough for someone like Elizabeth, but he too will let himself have her, even if their time is limited.





I'd say this was a good easy read. There wasn't an over abundance of drama, but there were a few scenes. I never really got to connect to Elizabeth, but I was pretty happy with her growth, and how she began to accept herself as she was without always thinking what others would think. Matt I was able to connect more with through his POV. I felt bad for his upbringing and hated how he viewed himself. He was a pretty great guy and had done well for himself considering. He was also really freaking sexy, not point denying it. I had a bit of trouble feeling a real chemistry between these two that was beyond lust, though. When they got together, it was explosive. They were going at it like bunnies. There was just so much sex, and it was hot don't get me wrong, but I wanted more focus on their relationship. It almost seemed like every chapter had to have sex in it which I think is why it sometimes felt like the book was dragging on a bit. I didn't care for any of the secondary characters, well except for Robbie, he was awesome. I hated Elizabeth's friend Melissa the most and I felt like her story line was pretty unnecessary. The last part of the book was definitely a lot better for me. This is where I began to enjoy it. Overall, it was a good read and worth reading to meet Matt and Robbie. They were the best part of the book for me.





Thanks to Sultan for the wonderful Buddy Read.

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♥ ♥ ♥ 4.25 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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“Really see you, the way you saw me. The way I hope you still do. Still will...I really think we've got something amazing. More than amazing...life-changing.”

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Ryleigh Phillips is at her high school reunion. A lot has changed since she was a teenager. Now, she is the owner of a funky ice cream shop that offers many treats with interesting names. Her business has been successful and is doing very well for self except when it comes to love. One thing that hasn't changed is her eclectic taste in decor and fashion. As well as her crush on Cameron Mathis, the ex-high school football star. When she literally bumps into him and cops a feel, she realizes he doesn't even mind. In fact, it seems now that Cameron is very interested in getting to know her. Her dreams are finally coming true, until Cameron's best friend Hunter Morgan comes into the picture.

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“And Ry?”
“Hmm?”
“I'm keeping you.”

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Ryleighs night with Cameron did not go exactly how she fantasized it would. She also never expected to feel a bit of an attraction towards his best friend Hunter. When the current contractor for her creamery ends up falling behind by a lot, Cameron suggests she hire Hunter. She agrees and it ends up being the best decision she ever made. When Cameron goes off to a work trip, Ryleigh concentrates her time with making sure her shop is finished on time. Hunter is making her dream ice cream shop a reality, and with each day they spend together. The closer they become. Now she has no idea what to do. They are both good men and sexy in their own way. How is she suppose to decide which man she wants? How is she suppose to do it without hurting their friendship and their hearts?

First off, I really liked Ryleigh. She was hilarious and lots of fun. I loved how independent she was and how she owned who she was without a care of what other people thought of her. I just loved her! Then there was Cameron who was such a great guy. He was funny, sexy and a gentleman. Hunter was also sexy, cocky and devilish. They were total opposites but the both made her melt. Before I continue on, this wasn't really a love triangle. It may seem that way, but it really wasn't. I really enjoyed the funny banter, and quirks in this book. Not to mention all those really great names for her sundaes, they were the best. I also really loved the sexual tension in it as well. Ryleigh's friends were a hoot, but I will admit they did sound a bit similar, so at times I didn't even know who was who. Still, they were great.

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“Because if there's anything you've taught me, it's that when you love someone, you love all parts of them, and not just the ones they want you to see.”

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I don't want to give the rest of the story away, because it's better to just read it yourself. This story was a sweet and fluffy read with lots of humour. It may have been a tad bit too cheesy at times, but hell if I cared. I still thoroughly enjoyed it. There was also a bit of angst and drama that kept things interesting, it was nothing too crazy so don't worry. This was my first book from Brooke Blaine and it definitely won't be my last. I look forward to reading more romantic comedies from her. I also really liked the writing, and the style it was done in is one I highly enjoyed. Overall, it was an awesome cute read. If you have not checked this author out yet, then you really should.





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♥ ♥ ♥ 3 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

I must be in a funk or something. I am so upset that I didn't love this one as much as everyone else did. I really liked the start of this. Loved the banter between Sam and Levee. I even really liked their sexual chemistry. But, for some reason, I started to slowly lose interest and I have no freaking idea why. I loved Aly Martinez's On The Ropes series, but this one just didn't completely do it for me. I guess I just couldn't connect with the characters or story maybe, even though I did like them. The story was okay, but I just didn't feel it emotionally like I would have liked considering what it was about. I don't know what happened. I liked the book, but I unfortunately did not love it. I hope I will love Henry's book better.


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♥ ♥ ♥ 3 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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“We met in a nightmare, loved in a prayer. We gave everything until both were laid bare.”

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Wasn't a bad read, but it wasn't a great one either, at least to me. The story line itself was pretty unique. I enjoyed it in the beginning and thought it was very interesting, but the middle to near the end just dragged on way too much for me that it was hard to keep interest. I also didn't care for the way he treated her sometimes. But the flashbacks were awesome. I loved those and all those sweet moments were really great.

The steam was really hot, but I did think there was a bit too much of it. I know..."how could there possibly be such a thing?", well there is. It seemed like there were doing too much of that instead of figuring out solutions or finding answers.

The ending itself was pretty good until the freaking cliffhanger happened. I might have to read the next book to find out what exactly it is she found out. I'm really curious about it.




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♥ ♥ ♥ 4 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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“People don't know what they're made of until they're tested.”

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Wow! This book was really something. There was so much drama I didn't know what to expect next. And I honestly have no clue how to even begin to review this because...well...So. Much. Happened. Since there are already an abundance of detailed reviews out there I will keep this one short.

Sam is a teenaged girl who's entire life seems to be turned upside down. Her mother is divorcing her father--a man that coaches the football team at her private school--and now she finds herself being forced to move in with her mother and her mother's new boyfriend--the wealthy father of the notorious bad boys Mason and Logan who go to public school. Which means that Mason and Logan will now be her stepbrothers. This is where drama will ensue and where she ends up lusting after her stepbrother Mason. Yeah, I know that's quite a bit to take in, but that is just the beginning of this book.

I honestly didn't think I would have enjoyed reading something like this, and I'm pretty sure that did because I could not for the life of me put this freaking book down. Samantha was a pretty cool chick, well, until she wasn't. Then she was plainly annoying and so damn frustrating with how she reacted to things and behaved. Then there was Mason. He was so intimidating and so sexy I was helpless to him. I totally fell in love with this guy. Logan, Mason's brother, was also all kinds of awesome and funny. I loved that he spoke his mind freely. Both boys were also quite the rebels and I'm not gonna lie, they were also a bit scary. Still, I couldn't help but like them.

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“In that moment, I realized that he always had that affect on me. The ice façade I reined over myself was plucked away whenever his attention was on me. He reached over and took it away like I was a baby with candy.”

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I very much liked the slow burn between Sam and Mason and how they eventually became so much more. I do wish there would have been a bit more focus on the relationship between so that I could see that relationship grow more. But, like I mentioned before, there was so much freaking drama with the secondary characters and the main ones that it was freaking crazy. The gossip mill, holy freaking gossip mill. Some characters I liked, others I didn't. Some I hated and liked at the same freaking time. There was freaking backstabbing, jealousy, and cattiness. There was drama between Fallen Crest Academy and Fallen Crest High that Sam somehow got involved in. It was just utter craziness but I couldn't stop reading.

Overall, it was a very interesting book to put it mildly. I can definitely see this book as being one you either enjoy or really hate. I know this one won't be for everyone. Mainly because of the many eye rolling and immature moments this book contains, and of course the drama. But I liked it. It kept me captivated until the end. It wasn't perfect and didn't always make sense, partly due to the editing of this book (like seriously someone needs to get on that pronto). But, I think this was a solid 4 stars. I can't wait to get to the crazy experience I'm sure book 2 will be.



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♥ ♥ ♥ 3.75 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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'He couldn't give her what she most wanted, couldn't be the kind of sub she could have by her side at the Ranch, but maybe he could at least give her this. His body was hers to use however she wanted tonight.'

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Sam has never really gotten over Gibson after all this time. She has tried, but the heart wants what it wants. Sam knows Gibson because he trained her on how to be a domme. Sam never expected herself to fall for him during those training sessions. When Gibson found out he quickly put an end to it all. He will never be what Sam craves, a submissive.

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'Her grin was wicked as she raised her arm to wield the belt, her fierce beauty absolute. And he knew he was fucking done.
He agreed to a week.
He may not survive it.
But he'd die with a smile on his face.'

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Time goes by when they finally see each other again. Gibson shows up with mutual friends at the bar Sam works at. He still tried to avoid her despite the need he feels when he is near her. Sam feels the same way. When Sam gets attacked, she is shaken by the event, and runs off for some solitude. Gibson finds out and goes after her. He knows the last thing she needs is to be alone, so he is determined to stay by her side until he is sure she is okay. What ends up happening is an arrangement. He can stay if he will be hers for one week, where he will submit to her.

This was the first book I have read where the dominant in this bdsm relationship is a woman. I wasn't sure how I would feel about it, but I'm glad to say that I really enjoyed it. Sam was a likable character and she did really great for herself despite her horrible upbringing in foster care. I also really liked Gibson and he was a great character despite also having a not so great childhood. However, it did affect him in not wanting to be a submissive. I loved how he cared about Sam and that he would do something that made him uncomfortable and unsure just to make sure she was okay. His feelings for her ran deep and it showed, except for when he was didn't want to accept how he was. I liked the dynamic and the chemistry between them. It was all kinds of hot, and not once did Gibson seem emasculated by being submissive.

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"See how beautifully intense you are in submission. Seeing you like that makes me want to thank the universe that you exist, that there's someone else who gets it. It makes me want to parade you around the Ranch and show you off because of how fucking lucky I'd be to have a man like you."

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This is a novella, so, their story did begin before the book began, but it actually worked. I almost didn't even need to see any scenes of them in the past. Even though it was a short read I was able to connect with them. It was very well developed and you could feel the relationship between them grow. It never felt like I was reading a novella. The sex scenes were definitely hot but not for everyone. There was talk about rape fantasies and such that may make it difficult for some to enjoy. There were some emotional parts in this one so it wasn't all just sex, and a bit of angst that kept things interesting. Overall, I found this to be a really great read.






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♥ ♥ ♥ 4 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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"You’re more than ‘just’ my best friend, and I never want to be ‘just friends’ again.
Sincerely (in love with you)
Carter"

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This story was totally up my alley. I can't believe it took me this long to read it. It was a 'friends to lovers' story, which I am a big fan of. In this one Arizona and Carter have been best friends since fifth, I mean, fourth grade. They didn't really start off on the right foot, in fact they constantly picked on each other. But as they grew up, they became closer, and eventually into friends. They were their through all of their life experiences and not once did they ever see each other more than just friends. But one day, they seem to notice something about each other they never thought of before. And all of a sudden they are feeling an attraction for one another that they don't even dare to act upon. But when the tension becomes too much, they end up not having control and instead give in.

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'I was pretty sure I loved him, and not in the way I loved him before. This was different. This was "I needed to have him every hour of the day," "be around him whenever I could", and "do whatever I could to have him" type of way. From the way he looked at me, I could tell he felt the same.'

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First off, I really enjoyed the connection between these two. I loved their waffle rituals, and funny banter. You could just feel the chemistry between them. I really liked Arizona, just as much as I liked Carter. Except of course , Carter made me melt with his freaking sexiness. The sexual tension between them was crazy good. I loved it! And the steam was just awesome. There was a bit of drama and angst added to the story when Arizona gets a once in a lifetime chance to make her dreams come true in France. That would mean leaving Carter behind and being apart for a very long time. This part completely broke my heart. I was so frustrated with Carter, even though in part I did understand his reasoning. Things got a whole lot interesting as a result.

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"I'm pretty sure it's been you since fourth grade, because now more than ever, I know that I'm supposed to be with you, and you're supposed to be with me. You belong to me, Ari, and you always will..."

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This was one of those books that I just couldn't seem to put down. It was highly enjoyable to me. One thing that I really loved were the letters they shared throughout their lives. But the letters near the end of book where Carter opens up were definitely the best. I liked this book a lot but it wasn't without flaws. One thing that stood out to me the most was how they started looking at each other as not friends. It seemed to happen out of no where and about the same time. Just seemed a bit odd to me and a little too instantaneous. Other than that it was great. Loved the characters and I really liked the ending. It left you with a heartwarming feeling. If you like a good 'friends to lovers' love story, than you should definitely give this one a go.



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♥ ♥ ♥ 3.5 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

Griffin's life has been pretty great since his band the D-bags have made it big. He has a lot of money, a big house, expensive cars, and his beautiful family. There can't be anything he could possibly want...wrong, he wants the spotlight. He is tired that everyone has had their moment to shine except for himself, and he can't take another rejection from his band members when he suggest something that might put him there. If his band won't help, than he will get it himself because he done waiting for his moment.






I have been looking forward to reading this book since I found out about its existence. Griffin definitely got my attention in Kellan and Keira's books by being his cocky and brash self. He was also quite funny because of it. In this book, it seems that no matter what Griffin comes up with to have a little spotlight in the band, Matt, Evan, and Kellan kind of give him the brush off. I was actually feeling quite bad for Griffin at one point because of the constant no's thrown his way. But as the book progressed, he just became such a complete douche that he frustrated me to no end. There was the constant lying to Anna, and the pushing of those that cared about him. Not to mention diving into things head first without talking to Anna or thinking about the risks or consequences. He was so arrogant that he thought there was no way his plan would fail. So, when his entire plan came crumbling down, he was left with nothing and alone.





I was so ready for his selfish ways to end, I was so happy when Griffin started to grow and learn from his mistakes. The second part of this book was so much better for me. The first part, was bit slow and kind of felt dragged on a tad bit. In the second part, I regained interest in what was happening. Seeing that change in Griffin and how far he would go for his family was touching. His redeeming quality was definitely his love for Anna and his baby girls. They made a great team in the end. It was a very long journey for Griffin, and definitely painful, but it was still a rather interesting one. I was very happy that I was able to like Griffin again by the end of this. Anna, was awesome. I seriously loved her for doing what she had to do for her girls. The steam was great, but sometimes it was a little too random. The romance between Griffin and Anna was definitely heart warming. Overall, I thought it was really great read.





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♥ ♥ ♥ 4 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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“I want to ruin you Freda, in the best way possible.”

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Freda is a 25 year old woman that doesn't seem to have a filter when it comes to her mouth, but she is a lovable character nonetheless. You can easily relate with her at times. She has a few insecurities concerning her weight. Then she meets her new neighbour, Nicholas, who's sees her as his perfect woman. To him she is all curves in the right places, with a personality that immediately brightens his day. Freda doesn't understand what is going on when Nicholas, who is highly attractive and fit, begins flirting with her.

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“You colour my world, Freda.”

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Nicholas has had his share of women, but there is something about Freda that just does it for him. So he proposes they have sex and is very disappointed when he is turned down. Freda isn't the one night stand kind of girl, despite her attraction to Nicholas, she just can't do it. They end up becoming flirty friends, and Freda notices something effeminate about him. When he invites her to a bar where he does a show, she agrees. It takes her awhile but she soon realizes it is a gay bar and becomes a bit shocked to see that this is where Nicholas performs in drag as Vivica Blue.

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‘I want him so badly it hurts. But I want all of him. Not just the sex. I want his smiles and his teasing, his smouldering looks. His sad eyes when he thinks nobody’s watching. Most of all I want his heart.’

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These two characters were such a hoot. I really enjoyed them both. I loved Freda's sense of humour and Nicholas was pretty damn sexy, even in women's clothing. Freda ends up being Nicholas' assistant in getting him ready for his performances. Every time they spend time together, the more closer they become. It was so cute seeing them fall for each other. The sexual tension between them was awesome, and quite hot. Thie story itself was so cute and unique. I loved the humour in this book. But it was also quite emotional, that it broke my heart. Despite me enjoying this book, there were some parts that were slow. I also became frustrated with Nicholas at times. Overall, I enjoyed the originality of the story, I don't think I have ever read a book like this. It was funny, steamy, and sweet. It's definitely worth checking out.



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♥ ♥ ♥ 4 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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“Sometimes the hardest part of existing without your loved one was remembering how to breathe.”

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I could not wait to read this book after seeing so many love it. I was hoping to feel the same, but I didn't fully love it as others. I did, however, enjoy it for the most part.

Elizabeth has had a very difficult year, to say the least. She lost her husband and has been trying to figure out how to cope with the grief. It's come to the point where she has to pull herself together for her five year old daughter's sake. So, she decides to go back to the small town where her life crumbled and live in the house she shared with her husband. This where she meets a strange and rude man who is actually her neighbour. His name is Tristan, and no matter what Elizabeth does to make this angry man a friend, he always has to act like a jerk. But, as days go on, it seems the share something in common. They are both struggling with the weight of their grief.

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“Her soul was scarred, and mine was burned.
But when we were together, the hurting hurt a little less. When we were together, the past wasn’t as painful to take in. When we were together, I never for a second felt alone.”

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Tristan has lost his wife and his son, and has not been able to recover since it happened. The only person who seems to understand what he is going through is Elizabeth. He finds he is able to breathe easier and smile for the first time in months with Elizabeth and her daughter Emma in his life. That connection they share quickly turns into a hunger for their past. They want what they lost, and so, they use each other to pretend it was never gone. But soon, it becomes so much more. The attraction grows along with their feelings, to the point where they just want to be with each other and not the ghosts of their past.

The story itself, I felt flowed really well, and the way the relationship developed was at a really good pace. I liked the characters for the most part. Elizabeth I felt tried so hard and didn't want to give up on moving on even if it was painful. I liked that even though she was going through so much that she was able to be selfless and help this man with moving on as well. She was kind with him, and helped him slowly come back to himself. Tristan was such a big jerk at first. But you can see him change slowly throughout the book. They were both broken and they both helped each other try to put all their pieces back together. I loved watching their relationship grow, although the pretend part of their relationship I didn't really care for. It was just too weird to me. Thankfully it didn't last too long.

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“Every second. Every minute. Every hour. Every day.”

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This book wasn't all sadness and tears, although I did feel and do that plenty of times while reading it. I was super happy to have some comic relief with my favourite character of the book, Faye, Elizabeth's best friend. She was blunt, hilarious, and just awesome. She had me laughing out loud many times. The writing was done really well, you could feel everything the characters were feeling. But near the end, I wasn't expecting things to turn so twisty. The first twist definitely got me and made things so much more interesting with a bit of angst. But the next one was so over the top. It was just so dramatic I didn't know if I was still reading the same book. The very end and epilogue however, left me very satisfied. I was very happy with how things concluded for them. Overall, it was a really great read. It wasn't perfect and I didn't completely love it, but there were many moments that were very enjoyable.



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♥ ♥ ♥ 4.5 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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"They say it takes twenty-one days to break a habit. It's been approximately one thousand eight hundred and twenty six since I last held her hand in mine and I'm still waiting for the remains of her to break off of me."

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If you've read Kaleidoscope Hearts, then you are familiar with Mia and Jensen. And if you read Torn Hearts, then you know how everything ended between them. In Paper Hearts, years have gone by since Mia and Jensen were young and in love. Because of a choice Jensen made, things changed dramatically and broke them apart. They have both never really gotten completely over each other, despite many attempts at moving on with other people. A job opportunity brings Mia and Jensen back together in the same city. Not only does Mia now live in New York, like Jensen does, but she is going to work along side him a few times, as well.

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'I let her go, not because I loved her too much to ask her to stay, but because I couldn’t bear to hear her tell me she wouldn’t. Still, every once in a while I wonder. And nothing is more haunting than regret.'

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Jensen regrets leaving Mia behind. There isn't a day that goes by that he doesn't think about her--which is why he is always checking on her through their mutual friends--no matter how painful it is when he finds out she is with someone else. Now that Mia is so close, he is determined to keep her. He will not let go of her without a fight. He just hopes she will forgive him first. Mia knows she still feels deeply for Jensen no matter how much she tries to deny it. She was left with an unbearable broken heart the last time things didn't work out with Jensen, and she just doesn't want to open her heart to that kind of pain again. But, Jensen is persistent, he just hopes that it won't lead her to leaving again.

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"I'd walk on glass if that meant getting to you. I'd swim an ocean, climb a mountain, I'd do anything."

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I can't tell you how awesome these two were. I really loved Jensen, he was super sweet, and romantic. He was just such a great guy, especially when his upbringing was not. And of course he made me swoon with the wonderful things he wrote and said. I totally forgave him for everything, because he totally showed her time and again how much he really loved her. Mia, I really liked as well, but she did frustrate the crap out me. I get why she was holding back, but I honestly didn't know what else Jensen could do in order for her to change her mind. I enjoyed the overall chemistry between them, you could totally feel how close they once were and how them being apart hadn't diminished that connection. I enjoyed the sexual tension and the angst in this one, too.

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"I love you, and there's no negotiating with what I feel in my heart."

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It was really great seeing the characters from the first book in this one, too. There were also some new characters, that also made things so much better. Like the first book, this was very well written, seriously, I love her writing. I freaking loved having Jensen's columns in the book, where we get to see what is going on in his mind when it comes to Mia. It was awesome. This was another beautiful story with heartache and heartwarming moments. There was even a bit of humour that kept things from getting too heavy. The ending was brilliant and definitely left me with a big smile. The epilogue, I just loved. Overall, this was a really great second book in the series. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that there will be more.



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♥ ♥ ♥ 4.5 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

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"Love is beautiful, shattering, moving, haunting. Love is everything."

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Oh, this book! It had me from the start. You know what a sucker I am for a good second chance at romance story, and this one did not disappoint me in the least.


Elle and Oliver have known each other since they were kids. Oliver is best friends with Elle's brother, so they are all pretty close. But one night things change. Oliver notices that Elle has grown up and the attraction between them grows with each night they talk. However Oliver has a plan he must do first before he even thinks about starting a relationship. Elle feels strongly for Oliver no matter how much she tries not to let it show. She knows he doesn't do relationships, especially not with his best friends little sister, but she still hopes he will. Unfortunately it only leads to heart ache when he leaves for medical school where he seems to be moving on with his life. She tries to do the same, any only gets more hurt.

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“We live in a galaxy of our own,” I whisper, kissing his earlobe. I smile when his breath quickens. “Where the storms pass, and the light fades, and everything ceases to exist except for us.”

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Years later, they end up crossing paths again. Oliver is back to finish off his residency. Oliver and Elle may have not had good timing in the past, but Oliver is determined to not let go of her this time. Elle has had so much hurt thrown her way that she is really reluctant to let Oliver back into her life. She doesn't know if she wants to experience any more pain, especially now that her heart is not completely healed. But, with Oliver being very insistent, it really is hard to resist.

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"I always thought you were mine."

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This book was so freaking good. This was my first book from this author and definitely won't be my last. I just loved Elle and Oliver. Elle was passionate about her art, very kind and giving, comfortable in her skin, and quite stubborn. But I just liked her. Oliver, what to say about Oliver except SWOON!! Seriously this guy is so perfect even when he isn't. He was super sexy and so damn sweet, I adored him. I didn't care how many times he frustrated me, he just stole my freaking heart. And then there was the sexual tension and the angst. Both of those things were just the right amount that the story needed. I can't tell you how happy I was that I was able to connect with these two completely. Loved!

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"My mind is yours. My hands are yours. My heart is yours. Everything I have is yours. Everything I am is yours."

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Another thing that I loved about this, was how well written it was. I really appreciated having those chapters in the past where we get to see how things developed between Elle and Oliver. It doesn't always work in every book, but it really flowed so well in this one. I loved watching these two grow, heal, and overcome all the hurt. The ending was perfect. Loved everything about it and left me with a huge grin on my face. Overall, It was a really beautiful and quite an emotional story. I thoroughly enjoyed it and it definitely comes highly recommended from me. I cannot wait to read the next one.



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