The first time she saw him, she knew she was in trouble. Alexis Taft fills her days and nights working to pay off her mother's medical debts and put her sister through college. She doesn't have time for fun or men. Her life is predictable if boring, that is until she meets Jack. Then life is anything but predictable.
The first time he saw her, he knew he wanted to make her his. Handsome, wealthy, powerful, Jackson Cole could have any woman he wants and often does, that is until he sets his sights on Alexis. With her unsurpassed beauty, he was hooked with just one look from her amber eyes.
Unfortunately, Alexis is the one woman who doesn't fall easily for his charms, and Jack has to do something he's never had to do before. Pursue a woman. However, Jack always gets what he wants, and Alexis soon discovers, she is no exception.
But there's someone else that wants Jack. Someone that would stop at nothing to have him. Someone that wants Alexis out of the way.
And Jack and Alexis have to stop them or lose all chance at happiness. ***This is a full length steamy contemporary romance with no cliffhanger. It is part of a series, but each book is a stand alone centering on new main characters. Due to sex and language, it is recommended for persons over 18.*** HEA
Sarah Curtis is a writer of all things romance. She loves nothing more than a sexy alpha male who falls hard for their heroine, almost always in spite of themselves!
A life-long resident of Southern California, Sarah shares her writing den with her childhood sweetheart and very own alpha male. When she’s not writing or dreaming up plotlines you can find her wrangling her plethora of very spoiled felines—she currently has five, yes you read that correctly, furry companions. Sarah is a reader before anything else, and her TBR mountain is higher than Everest. She’s also addicted to watching cooking competitions, especially involving baking! Of her own admission, she rarely cooks, but she’s up for the occasional birthday cake for her children as long as it involves the opening of a box.
If you like romance in all its forms along with some healthy debates with a side of games and puzzles then head over to her Facebook group, Sarah Curtis's Alpha Overload, for fun chats and to discover your next BBF. https://www.facebook.com/groups/20646...
Alluring is book one in the Alluring series by Sarah Curtis. Sarah is a new to me author and I am blown away. I loved this book!
Alexis Taft is a receptionist at a Mercedes-Benz dealership by day and a cocktail waitress at night at Allure, a hotel and casino on the Las Vegas Strip. She needs every penny she earns to pay off her mother’s medical bills and to pay the college tuition for her little sister. Alexis was fifteen when her mother got sick. She spent years taking care of her and working to keep a roof over their heads. Now, with her mother gone, she was left with the bills. Alexis doesn’t date, she never has had time and as a result, at now twenty-three, she was a virgin with virtually no experience with men.
Jackson Cole is the owner of Allure. Jackson had a privileged upbringing with great parents. He works hard and has no interest in relationships. He enjoys a woman for one night only and they are aware of this before they spend any time with him. So no one could be more shocked than Jack himself at his reaction the first time he saw Alexis. He was having a beer in the bar in his hotel and he couldn’t take his eyes off her. And it angered him when he saw other men reacting the same way. He needed to get this woman out of his system but the problem was that she wasn’t the least bit interested in him. Night after night he was compelled to visit the bar and just watch her. Night after night she seemingly wanted nothing to do with him.
It was a grand-opening party for Allure’s new nightclub, Pulled and Alexis’s best friend Steph and convinced her that she needs a night out. Once again circumstances put Jack and Alexis together. Finally Jack is able to convince her to have dinner with him. This was finally Jack’s chance to find a way to convince this woman to let him into her life.
“This woman was doing something to him. He wasn’t sure what, yet. But he did know he wanted to be the one to protect her, always.”
“He might be unsure about the emotions tugging at his heart, but he knew one thing for certain, Alexis Rose Taft was now his.”
And so begins Alexis and Jack’s journey! Jack knows from the start that she’s the one. He’s never wanted a woman like he wants her. But Alexis is filled with uncertainty. She can’t understand why this man is the least bit interested in her. He’s everything and she believes herself to be plain and boring. She tries to keep her heart out of it because she’s convinced that there will be an expiration date to this. That Jack will soon tire of her and want to move on. But try as she might, the heart wants what it wants, and it seems to want Jack Cole.
“He was like a drug, and she couldn’t walk away. Didn’t want to walk away.”
As the feelings deepen between these two, there is someone out there that doesn’t want them together. That wants Alexis out of the picture. It seems that whoever this person is, they will stop at nothing to accomplish this.
I swear, I fell in love with Jack in this book. He was so obsessed with her. His jealousy and possessiveness confounded him. He’d never experienced these emotions before. And let me tell you, this man had ALL the words. The things he said!! I have to admit that there was one time when I didn’t like something he asked Alexis to do when he was angry but she willingly did it. I just felt like he was going too far. But there was no doubt that he loved this woman with all that he was and would do anything for her.
“You are it for me, Alexis. Do you understand what I’m saying? There is only you. There will only ever be you.”
There is no way I can put all the quotes I highlighted in this review. Just know that Jack will make you swoon. The sexy times are steamy hot! And the suspense was an unexpected surprise. This book had every one of my boxes checked and I loved it like crazy. The next book in the series is called Engaging. It is Jack’s close friend, Gage’s story. I can’t wait to read it.
“You are the breath I need to breathe. I live for you, Alexis. Without you, I am nothing.”
★★★ 3.5 Stars★★★-So this review was actually a bit difficult for me to pen down. Since this book,well technically,had everything but nothing at all.
Everything Because the plot line can be basically shelved under almost anything. -It's a billionaire romance read ✔ -It's got a lot of sexy (SEXY)times *wink wink*✔ -An innocent heroine that has never..umm been introduced to the art form called 'Love' ✔ -Kick-ass best friends✔ -Posseive Exs✔ -Stalkers...✔ And so on.
Nothing Because for almost the whole of 70 % of the book,I had to tolerate the heroine go on and on about her insecurities every 5 minutes between pages. "OMG! HE'S SOOOO RICH ! AND SO HANDSOME !! WHY IS HE WITH ME!? I'm like NOBODY ! I'm Nothing !!!*Gah* ! He's soooo handsome !! "
Past about 80%,she kind of toned down on all her insecurities when all was going well in LA-LA land.And just when I was starting to warm up to her,the climax came around and she ran and pulled a Bella like in the end of Twilight by willingly running to the stalker trying to murder her as if she has some super secret ninja skills that she was hiding as a surprise twist instead of telling her SECURITY DETAIL that her BILLIONAIRE BOYFRIEND Hired to PROTECT HER 24/7 that someone was threatening her.
Inspite of that,I still stayed,finished and enjoyed most of the book because the hero,damn,was amazingly sweet and so was the secondary characters.I was in the right mood for a good dose of insta love which the story delivered,so rating wise I guess that kind of helped.
Defiantly thinking about giving this series another go,in fact aldready got Book 2 standing by as I write,because in-spite of all my complaints,I was quite comfortable with the author's style of writing and the pace of the plot. So I guess,we'll see.
Wow! Jackson Cole is the perfect, swooniest, alpha hero I’ve read in like, forever!
Alexis is just trying to get through her days as she works two jobs to cover the cost of living after years of caring for a sick mother and helping to raise her sister. When Jack makes a move, she’s immediately drawn to him but knows he just wants one night, and that’s not her thing. At all.
Jack is pulled toward Alexis from the first moment he lays eyes on her. His desire becomes almost obsessive. Jack is accustomed to getting anything he puts his mind to but Alexis is making him work extra hard at getting her. And his mind is definitely set on having her. But as he continues to pursue the seemingly unattainable woman, he quickly realizes that he wants more than one night.
Together this couple ignited the pages of my Kindle! They were perfect for each other. Alexis has a few trust issues which were completely understandable due to Jack’s past. That past ensures there is a good bit of other woman drama here. However, Jack is all about Alexis and that never once changes. I loved watching Alexis grow to accept that what she had with him was the real thing. And I absolutely adored watching Jack fall and fall hard.
This is one of those reads that just checks all your boxes for what you want in a low angst, high steam romance with a likable heroine and most importantly the perfect possessive/protective and jealous hero. There are just no words for how incredible this couple are.
This is this author’s debut book but has recently reworked it with spit and shine. I freaking loved it so hard! Hand raised to heaven, I vow this book is the perfect feel good read!
Dual POV – Have I mentioned how much I loved Jack and having his POV…Sigh. ♥ Safe Triggers
I read Alluring a few months ago and decided to read it again. I loved this book the first time and loved it even more the second time! Every minute of it! I finished reading it in one sitting.
I love love love Jack! He has to be one of the sexiest men out there! The story mainly revolved around Alexis and Jackson's love story with a bit of suspense, action and drama. The perfect combination that fit my reading preferences. The chemistry and passion between the MC was steamy hot and you could feel through the story every single touch, lick and kiss between them. And I loved how they handled one another.
"You are the breath I need to breathe. I live for you, Alexis. Without you, I am nothing."
Sarah Curtis did great and she captured my attention from the first page till the end.
I fully recommend this book and can’t wait to read Mase’s story (book 3 in the Alluring Series).
I made some belated teasers today that I wanted to share with everyone, and while here, I seriously contemplated taking away the rating I gave this book back when I first published it. It feels funny that I rated my own book, which is why I never rated Engaging. I thought long and hard about this, and you know what? I really love this book, I love Jack, and I'm really proud of myself for finally having the courage to do something I've always dreamed of doing. So I'm leaving the stars. I'm giving myself 5 stars, not the book (and now I'm a blubbering mess). Hope you enjoy the teasers.
This is the first book I have read from this author, I think it is a debut. Remarkable! Yes it follows a formula: hot, rich alpha hero (yes he was a bit of a man-ho) falls head over heals for virginal hard working poor beautiful heroine. But almost every book is a formula. What matters is how you deliver. And boy she delivered!
There is lust, romance, drama, action and love. It was a happy and easy read (low angst) but there was certainly a lot going on. We got a full progression of their story and a fulfilling HEA. I do not see how you cannot love Jackson and even Alexis. I have a harder time liking heroines, but I found her pretty solid. Not stupid, whiny or vapid. Even though an OW from the past tries to make trouble, there are no OW/OM issues between them. Certainly no cheating!
I also appreciate that this author stayed away from cheesy popular, yet bad, plot devices. Like needless absences from miscommunication, OW constantly in the heroine's face, cheating or near misses.
Why not 5 stars? I felt like there was almost a bit too much in the story. At one point the plot took off in an unexpected direction and I felt it was a little disconnected. So it slowed the story for me. This was minor, but kept me from rating a 5 star.
However, the unltimate compliment from me is that even though I read this free from KU, I bought it so I could re read whenever I wanted. I also liked the book well enough that I am going to read her second book in the series Engaging even though I generally stay away from second chance stories. I have faith that this author will produce something more worthy than most!
This has been a frustrating read for me so there may be a teeny, tiny bit of ranting going on in this review...for that I apologize.
On the one hand, I loved Jack. He was the best hero. IMO, he did everything right. Yes, he was a manwhore. He had many, many ONS's. He never hit the same woman twice. But as soon as he saw Alexis, that was it for him. She was the ONE. To me, he did and said everything right. He showed Alexis, in every way, that she was special. I don't think he purposely did anything to hurt her. I know there were a few instances were she encountered OW he had slept with and she would feel insecure due to something she overheard. But Jack would straighten it out immediately and several times, either in his thoughts or his words, he would say he wished he had lived differently. I can totally understand that. I'm sure there are things most of us have done that we wish we could change. He continually tried to show her she was it and there would never be another. Either you trust someone or you don't.
On the other hand was Alexis. I spent probably 75% of this book ready to strangle her. She got on my nerves so bad. She could never seem to understand why Jack would choose her when he could have his pick of any woman. She didn't know why she was special to him. Did she even listen to what he said or pay attention to what he did?? She was constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop. She just KNEW he was going to break her heart. At 75-80% she is STILL feeling this way. GET OVER IT ALREADY!! Even her friend Steph pointed out to her that yes, he'd been through the woman, but none had ever held his attention. Even, "normal, everyday" people run the risk of losing someone they love to someone else. I just couldn't deal with the continued self doubt and not believing in the relationship. I didn't like her much at all. I did like that she made him chase in the beginning..that she didn't immediately fall down at his feet. But that dragged on a little too long with her inner monologue.
When I read a romance, I want both parties in for the long haul. Alexis would not let Jack talk about the future because she didn't believe in one. How could they have a relationship if she didn't believe it would last??
Okay, so I'll stop with the Alexis hating...sorry about. I was a little over it all by the time we actually got to the whole stalker situation and it came to a head. I have to say, as someone who usually figures these things out pretty quickly (my family hates to watch anything suspense wise with me because I can always figure out the bad guy), I was left second guessing myself. The author did a pretty good job of throwing little things in there to keep you questioning.
I'll probably read the other two books in this series at some point but not right now. I hear the heroines have the same issues...I'm sure I'd need a new iPad if I try to read them right now.
***5 Stars for Jack, 2 very, very disappointed in you Alexis stars. So I'll settle at 3
Jack is not used to being turned down and that is precisely what Alexis Taft does. Jack doesn't do relationships, he is a one and done type of guy but now he is considering it with Alexis. As Jack tries to understand the bewildering woman he finds he only wants one result, Alexis as his.
Alexis works two jobs to pay for his deceased mother's medical expenses and puts her sister through college. Alexis is more than willing to sacrifice having a personal life to do what is right, but meeting Jack has her wishing for a little bit more. Jack lets her know from the minute he decides they are going to have a relationship. She knows Jack is a player and Alexis is struggling to understand what he sees in her. When Alexis begins to get threats, Jack vows to protect her and hope they can figure out who is behind it before it is too late.
Loved, loved, loved this one. They are opposites but they fit so perfectly together. Jack is direct and pure alpha male where Alexis is concerned. Can't wait to read more from this author.
23 yr old virgin waitress meets 30 yr old hotel magnate.
This was recommended in the Possessive Hero thread but the writing was too amateurish for my taste. I was bored out of my mind. Rating doesnt even reflect that the book seriously needed editing.
This is one of those fluff reads that provides a warm and fuzzy blanket for snuggly coziness, but, with it, comes a shitload of lint that keeps getting in your eyeballs.
Writing
Why use 10 words for what could be said in five? Why? Seriously, why???
Why tell me every single step of every action & thought like I'm a beginner reader? Why?
We all have our writing quirks (mine is ...) That said, I'm not a professional writer charging money for my "...." The author uses (____) a lot! *Just saying* I think it might've been an issue of the author not being confident in her grammar vs taking liberties in excess?!?
Why reiterate the same sentiment within the same thought?
"Very annoyed looking look."
"She was hot, thirsty, and in desperate need of some water."
Why tell me what EVERY single character looks like & is wearing with each and every new scene?
"Hair" was used 86 times, and that's not counting the extra use of "-haired," "hairs," etc used.
"Eyes" was used 207 times. Every single character, no matter how small a role, got a hair and eye description.
Plot Overkill & Panhandles Too Many Cliches
Playboy meets sweet sexy waitress. He wants her; one night only. Virginal waitress ain't interested. Playboy realizes this isn't lust, but rather the one. Insert lots of wooing by him. Insert lots of running and denying by her.
She's plain & feels there's no way someone as good looking and rich as Jack would "keep her."
^ Okay, fine, but...
Every male this chick comes into contact is going GooGoo for her CocoPuffs plain self. And she has never noticed this... Still doesn't? Nativity only goes so far for so long. Overkill!
The same thing with Jack. Women are pouring out of the cracks here to torment the female MC and throw themselves at his penis. Overkill!
Anyway, it's 50% before they're on the same page. By then, I've honestly grown somewhat bored. We've moved on, for the most part, from the angsty denials to a stalker.
The stalker bit...
• stalker leaves notes and pics with her head x'd out. • stalker trashes his car. •stalker tries to run her over. •stalker locks her in a sauna. •simplistic plan to lure stalker out. •stalker calls and she takes off alone and w/ no phone.
OTT , slow, & cliche just isn't a good combo for me.
Good Plot Points
• Thank you for the reprieve from the standard lack of communication angst. These characters are very upfront and honest with each other. No pointless miscommunications.
• He instantly knows she's the one and doesn't bother with OW from that book point forward.
• I like the wooing part and that he hasn't ever "dated" women before.
• MCs are fairly secure in their relationship by 50%, and not the usual uncertainty holding till 90% or so.
• Good epilogue providing a secure HEA.
Plot Holes
Erica has new sugar daddy she's marrying ... So wtf is she arguing over a waitress job?
No one heard a FING helicopter land in the yard?
Gumdrop
She's sugary sweet and innocent, but damn she annoyed the hell out of me with the woe angst & self-conscious mental monologues.
Jack The Sugar Alpha
Eh, you know that guy with swag, but that's also way to cheesy for the most part? That's Jack.
I like a tender touch to my swoon Alpha male, but Jack can get a lil too sugary sap for me. OTT.
He's mannered and composed, but takes no shit. He's cheesy with her, but a little dirty boy, too. Rich, but doesn't act superior or holier than thou. Possessive, jealous, demanding, commanding, but also respectful. A lil sweet give and fierce demand works for him overall.
The problem really is the cheese level of what he says, how he says it. Not my favorite character by far, but he's okay. It's alpha PG-13.
Heat Level
Low~
Initial scenes are okay; nothing special, but okay. I would not call this "steamy." It's basic vanilla, sugary stuff that's more HBO than Hustler. It does get boring being the same type of scene on repeat.
Overall
I think that readers that like safe & easy reads with insta-love, no question loyalty between MC's, no cheating, nothing hardcore, and like romance more sugar than spice will really enjoy this one. <<< probably a upper 3-4-5 star for yall.
I prefer more spice to my romance and more substance and originality to the other plot elements.
So, I'll give it 2 stars, which is my 'it's mildly okay' despite not hitting the right flavors on my buds rating:)
“That wasn’t a line” “That wasn’t a line” Still not a line... ... ok :) maaaybe those were/are lines, but Jack's weren't ;)
Overall Rating → 5 “That Wasn’t a Line” STARS Price is Right? → Love Triangle? → Cheating? → Angst Level: High, Medium, Low → Heat/Language Level: Rated G, PG, PG-13, R, NC-17 → HEA → Page Turner? → yes Would I recommend? → YES! YES! YES! Would I re-read? → YES! This is an excellent recovery read! You know, after you finish a book that either tor your heart out or didn’t meet your expectations. Would I read more from this author? → YES! Already on my way to Engaging
So Jackson Cole (AKA Jack) he’s a manwhore…
Jack: “You’re so exceedingly beautiful, I can’t seem to keep my eyes off you. Say you’ll come home with me, so I can watch you all night.” Alexis: “I’m sorry, but I don’t go home with strange men.” (Good girl Alexs!) Jack: “Well, that’s a shame because that’s the only thing I do”
Make that WAS a manwhore ;)
In walks Alexis… … who turns him into a one-woman man!
Unfortunately, the rest of the female population is not DOWN with this change in Jack, and one woman specifically puts up a fight. Like I said it’s a HEA, so enjoy the ride!
4.5 ⭐️ I added a 1/2 Star on this reread because Jack deserves it lol. Every book I’ve read by this author I’ve loved but I have to say that Jack is definitely still one of my favorite heroes. He’s the type I love. When he meets the h, no OW will do and he goes after her relentlessly. And Alexis is a sweet heroine just trying to get by. She has some insecurities in the beginning but once she believes in him, she holds nothing back either. This has a good cast of secondary characters as well.
The inconsistencies killed me but damn! I want a Jack! Figure all I have to do is be, drop dead gorgeous, not realize it, work two jobs with no sleep, have a flat stomach without working out or skipping rich food . . . sounds about right. xD
No seriously, jokes aside it was a very warm read. Sends you right into la-la land with a smile and heavy swoony sighs.
Overall Opinion: I was frustrated about a few things that others might not have issues with. First, the h kept on pushing the H away and trying to keep emotional distance from him. She was insecure because he was a good-looking rich man, but it became old. He never did anything to make it seem like she was not on equal ground, and he had to constantly give speeches about how wonderful, beautiful, sweet, etc. she was. She became one of those people that seemed to put herself down in order to hear everyone say "no! You are awesome!" in response. Second, I had issues with the unnecessary drama. . And last, I always have issues with instalove. I need to experience the development of feelings for the characters in order to connect to the story. It felt like I was told about their connection in this one, and didn't really feel it. The H became obsessed after one meeting with her, and while I got agrivated with her "why me" questions I also understood it. He was a notorious playboy that never spent more than one night with a woman, but after one brief interaction he was a changed man. Again-- I have read books that this type of thing has worked, but I didn't feel it in this one. Overall, the book just wasn't for me.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Alexis and Jack's story. They meet when Alexis is working as a waitress in the "high rollers section" of a casino. She doesn't know that Jack is the owner of the casino at the time that he offers her a ONS, and she declines his offer. He continues to pursue her (even though he is a known playboy that only does ONSs, and she is a virgin that wants more than that), and eventually she gives in and they start a relationship. Things move quickly and they become inseparable, and fall in love. There is some stalker drama, some sexy times, some mushy moments...but the couple get their HEA.
POV: This alternated between focusing on Alexis and Jack in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. The story felt over at about half-way mark, and then it had some drama added that just felt unnecessary to me.
Instalove: Yes. They moved extremely quickly to where it was a little off putting for me, because I like to experience more development in the feelings department -- especially because I felt like I didn't feel their connection but was told about their connection instead.
H rating: 3 stars. Jack. He was possessive and jealous, but I didn't think it was in a bad way (if that makes sense). Otherwise, he was just ok.
h rating: 2 stars. Alexis. She was my main issue with the story. She pushed the H away for majority of the story because of her own insecurities, and for me it became rather old and frustrating.
Sadness level: Low. No tissues needed.
Heat level: Moderate. There is a good bit of sex scenes that are hot at times and meh others.
Descriptive sex: Yes.
Safe sex: No condoms used, but they do have a std talk and the h is on birth control.
OW/OM drama: Yes, in a few instances. They are at a party when the h hears a previous ONS of the H talk about him, and she has to deal with drama from this OW and her claiming to take the H home with her. Then there is another situation that causes majority of the drama in the story...
Sex scene with OW or OM:
Cheating:
Possible Triggers:
Closure: This had a good amount of closure with a jump ahead epilogue that gives us a glimpse into the couple's HEA ending.
How I got it: This was part of my kindle unlimited subscription..
Umm....nawww.......the author is lying! He was NOT a manwhore!!! I don't beileve sarah!!!!
I READ THIS BOOK FOR CHEMISTRY , WHICH WAS OFF-THE CHARTS!!!!!!!!!!!
#1ALEXON💖
NOW BEFORE YOU SAY THAT THIS IS "VIRGIN h + MANHO H PAIRING I WON'T READ IT." TAKE A LOOK BELOW. KINDLY READ THE WHOLE REVIEW.
✅Manho H + Virgin h is acceptable ONLY WHEN-
1.)He's COMPLETELY UTTERLY OBSESSED WITH h, like....so obsessed that he does crazy things for her. 2.)He has AT LEAST a first with h. Like-> No-condoms, taking out on a date, cooking for her, sleeping in the same bed, buying things for her, paying all her debts, following her around like a love-sick puppy. 3.)He starts picking baby names, as SOON as he sees her for the first time. 4.)NEVER let's OM breath in her direction. 5.)The h makes the H work hard to get into her knickers.
🖤JACKSON COLE-
🖤ALEXIS TAFT-
😍😍😍MY KINDA BOOOOOOKKKKKK😍😍😍😍
💎OBSESSED H?Check!!! h WHO IS BEAUTIFUL WITHOUT BEING CLULESS?Check!!!
THE HERO WAS GROVELLED , HE WAS........WAS HE REALLY A MANHO? I CANT FOR A SECOND BELIEVE THAT!!!!!!
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ ✅RANDOM THOUGHTS(They'll change ur outlook towards the H)-
🔫The H was a manwhore, but.........did not feel like one.
🤍Somethings that you shud know about MR.COLE is-
🔫Despite his manwhorish reputation, he was COMPLETELY DIFFERENT with h.
🔫He NEVER slept with anyone, after he had sex with them.
🔫He NEVER took any of his conquests to his home. He just fucked them in the club, because his home was his personal sanctuary
🔫He NEVER dated. No dinner or anything.
🔫Never stayed the night.
🔫Never said 'I love you' to anyone.
🔫Never took a girl to meet his parents.
🔫Never MADE love , only fucked.
🔫Never fucked the same girl twice.
🔫Never was possessive/jealous with anyone.
🔫Never bothered with the girl's feelings or anything.
🔫Never payed attention to any other girl after he had sex.
🔫Condoms were a MUST.
🟦🟦HOW WAS HE DIFFERENT WITH ALEXIS?
💖After the first meeting with Alexis, he became-
💖He DID want to fuck her like all his other conquests, BUT, Alexis was NOT an easy lay.
💖Nope.
💖She Made the H work for it.
💖Jack fell in love with her at first site.
💖He decided that THIS was a relationship he wanted to have till he turned grey and old.
💖He DID NOT have sex with her for at least 50 pages.
💎He did laundary with her.(A first for him)
💎Went Grocery shopping with her.(Also a first)
💎Slept with her in HIS own bed several times, WITHOUT having sex.(Also a first for him)
💎Cooked for her several times.(Also a first)
💎Payed all her mom's and sister's debts without telling her..(Also a first)
💎Was ALWAYS around her, never let her out of his sight(Also a first for him).
💎If she scrapped a knee, he mended to her wounds.(Also a first)
💎Bought expensive things for her.(Also a first).
💎Took her on dates(Also a first)
💎Took her to his parent's home(Also a first).
💎Sent her flowers EVERY single day to her office.(Also a first).
💎Was POSSESSIVE and JEALOUS like a stalker. (Also a first).
🔥OBSESSED. OBSESSED. OBSESSSSSSSSEDDDDDDD with h.
💎Beat EVERYTHING that even looked at Alexis wrongly.
💎Regretted that he wasn't a virgin.
💎NEVERRR used condoms with Alexis.
💎You can say that he's a caveman/neanderthal who wanted to just make babies with her.
💎Every 5th page of book, he tells her how fucking beautiful she is.
💎After reading a few pages, you'll feel like that they are a married couple, an not dating.
💎Because he was like a husband.
💎Told her AGAIN AND AGAIIIIIIN that he couldnt live w/o her, and that he regretted that he met her so late in life, and not sooner.
💎Repeatedly apologised to her for being a manho. 😕🤔
💎NEVERRRRR looked at ANY OW after meeting her.
💎The Jackson described in the blurb is hoax i think.
💎NEVERRRR got manho vibes from him.
💜💜💜💜Alexis babe-
💓Girl is my favourite you know?
💝She made the H WOOOOOORRRRRRK for her.
💝I know she was hella insecure, pushed literally SO DAMN much that i wanted to shake her and put some sense into her.
💝But, i kind of understand that its hard for a girl who works 3 jobs just to pay debts and bills , and who lives alone, its difficult to trust men, and SPECIALLY a former manho!!!!
💝And i understand that her insecurity is justifiable since she is just a waitress and he is a celebrity/billionaire.
💝She had a spine, this one.
💝In the starting she is intimidated by the people who work for Jackson and the friend's of Jackson who are top celebrities , but i loved how she adapted to her environment, and no more let bitchy OW try to push her around. I loved how she argued back and sneered back at Sabrina.
💝I loved how caring she was.
💝I loved how she understood Jackson ,and was SO DAMN generous.
💝She grew out of her ego very much later in the book after they both confessed their love. She actually hated that he helped her financially, cause she wasnt a charity case/gold-digger.
💝But, yeah after a thorough talk with Jackson , and expressing her insecurities, she relaxed and let him help her.
🖤THE BAD-
💛 Uhhh.......this book became unrealistic after page 400
💛I mean........why would Sabrina kidnap Alexis, knowing that Jackson would DEFINITELY come with guns blazing and with the whole SWAT team?
💛And even if she DID kidnap her, shouldnt she have been more discreet?
💛Maybe she wasnt because , well she was a lot on psychotic side.
💛And shouldnt Jackson be jailed because he killed Sabrina? I mean yeah,okay, she was the bad gal here, but STILL.......... he SHOT her, and kill on sight is a punishable offense. How did he get away with it?
💛Any........ok, what the hell, why did the private investigator checked EVERYONE'S background who were related to Alexis and Jackson but missed to check Sabrina's? That utterly dosen't make any sense.
💛How come through the WHOLE book, the bodyguards are following Alexis , LITERALLY EVERYWHERE, but when she gets the threatining call from sabrina to come to Stephanie's apartment, and Alexis rushed out of the penthouse, why werent the bodyguards standing there?
💛Why did the security not follow her? Did they magically disappear?
🟥🟥🟥SPOILERS🟥🟥🟥
✅30yr/23yr
✅ Manho/Virgin.
✅OM drama- Yes. The h whenever goes for a girls night, duded try to creep on her. Jackson goes all Hulk on the dudes. A dude drugged her once, H saved her. Nothing happened.
✅OW drama- Basically this book is about OW drama. A former one-night stand Sabrina, whom Jackson had only fucked ONCE, became obsessed with him, he NEVER liked her. Never bothered with her. She started sending threating notes to Alexis and Jackson's penthouse(which we come to know in the end, it's basically a mystery throughout the book about who is sending the notes?) Since she usually hangs around in Jackson's club , she touched him once or twice when he was with Alexis, but he stepped back and sneered at her. Once she kissed him AT ALEXON'S engagement party. The H became furious. The h became furious. Alexis sneered at her. 😘 Sabrina died in the end.
✅LOT'S of insecurity from h's side.
✅No-cheating. ✅No-triggers.
No sex scenes with OP.
❤OBSESSED H. Strong h.
💓Sex scenes were not as hot as i expected. Foreplay was AMAZING!!!!
💓No-condoms.
💝HEA.
😍😍😍😍Epilogue-Married with h delivering a bay in the epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
A besotted H who courts the heroine with fantastic, old fashioned romantic charm but manages to get down and dirty when the need arises. Jackson Cole is the reason I loved this book so much. He's the man whore who stops manwhoring when he meets the lovely heroine Alexis. It's insta-lust that rockets into insta-love and Jackson is stunned by the force of the feelings in his heart. He's the stereotypical billionaire who has a penthouse apartment in his Las Vegas resort/casino, where Alexis works as a night shift cocktail waitress. Prior to meeting Alexis, the H had kept another suite in the resort that was used only for his assignations with his current sex partner. Jackson never had actual relationships with these women; he engaged in one time flings ( only the "lucky" bimbo would get the chance for a repeat visit to the hook up suite ). The author only mentions this former habit of his because Jackson becomes completely faithful to Alexis from the time he first sees her.
Alexis works 2 jobs to pay off her late mother's medical bills and to help put her younger sister through college. She doesn't have time ( literally ) for a relationship but Jackson starts to chase after her and doesn't allow her to get away. He also saves her when a rapist puts a date rape drug in her drink. Jackson was so chivalrous and sweet. He took her up to his penthouse apartment ( not the nasty hook up suite ) where he calls a doctor who takes a blood sample. He also makes sure that the wannabe rapist is arrested by the police. The story is very romantic because the H is the one who does all the pursuing and he does a lot of wonderful things for Alexis, to prove how much she means to him. He also never tries to bully her into sex, but waits until she is ready. There is a lot of intrigue too: after Alexis becomes his official girlfriend and moves into his penthouse to live, she starts being stalked and threatened by one of his ex one night stand bimbos. The threats start off as little things like notes but then it soon escalates to the point where the authorities have to be called and Jackson also hires his own investigator. It was difficult to pinpoint the identity of the deranged stalker bitch since there were quite a few candidates for the post.
The stalker bitch eventually uses Alexis' best friend as leverage and manages to capture the heroine. By this time in the story, Alexis is already pregnant and engaged to marry Jackson. The H does everything in his power to find his missing girlfriend and is lucky to locate Alexis before the deranged bimbo can hurt her. This is a very romantic story. I enjoyed reading how Jackson courted Alexis and how he asked her to marry him. He had to work very hard to prove that his manwhoring days were behind him. Alexis never gave in easily because she didn't want to be another statistic from the hook up suite. Jackson, however, was always patient ( in an alpha manly sorta way, of course ) and he never looked at another woman. This is what probably triggered the deranged bitch's jealousy. Jackson was a perfect H who did everything in his power for the woman he loved and the best part was that his parents also loved Alexis. This was a sugary sweet romance novel, with a lot of sexy times and a huge dollop of added intrigue.
In this story we have an innocent hardworking girl who meets the manwhore extraordinaire who hit a girl once and forgets her. Nice right? So we have them trying to make it together but in come his baggage because a rich guy like him has got to have hanger-on. Bitch after bitch come up to her to tell her how awesome he is in bed and how she is just some piece of temporary ass. Nice right? But he loves her so she has to overlook all that to be with him. However, when she is almost kill by car, trapped in sauna and then it's a gun. I am starting to think that he is just an ass for thinking that he could get away with his lifestyle without it effecting hers. He needs to be a man and do some damage control here. He would be wise to either: 1- Move man! 2- Run forest run! 3- Get the hell out of Dodge! Whatever, but he needs to rethink the way he runs his life cause the crazies that have been on his junk are too many in this current location. Man, I am so glad that she had her baby but she did not get out of the hospital yet!? (Dum dum dum cue dramatic music here) So maybe some other crazy bitch will come and steal his baby? You never know here with these two. Another thing, was it just me or did it seem like everyone they met wanted to be with her or him? Also, no one saw anything, really? I loved the drama don't get me wrong here. Drama I live for, but not far fetched impossible bullcrap! Come on no one in his hotel saw anything and she was never seen on any camera with her stalker behaviour. How does he or his company stay in business being this incompetent. Good story but can't give it a 5. It was a sweet first love story and that I did enjoy. They are both each first true love. She was a virgin but he was a complete manwhore. When he sees her that's it however he is completely faithful. No cheating. Please note: he always used condoms in the past except with her because she is on the pill.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Fun, easy read about a OTT alpha, super possessive rich guy and a sweet girl just trying to make it as best she can. There's a stalker involved that I guessed as soon as the stalking started, insta-love, even a virgin h, but I still liked the book and it took care of my alpha craving. Lots of characters I want to know more about so I will definitely be reading more from this author.
"You are the breath I need to breathe. I live for you, Alexis. Without you, I am nothing."
Jack was a man of "one-night stands." But when he set his eyes on a stunningly beautiful cocktail waitress, he was bewitched and knew he had to have her. But Alexis wasn't the kind of woman who would go home with a man she just met, especially someone who was as handsome as Jack. No matter the attraction, she wouldn't give in easily. Despite keeping him at arm's length, Alexis couldn't help but be drawn to his irresistible charms, and Jack couldn't seem to stop himself from wanting her. One thing was for certain: Alexis Rose Taft was his, and he would do anything to keep it that way.
But as their relationship progresses, an unknown threat becomes a danger to Alexis. And Jack knew he had to do something soon before that "someone" would ruin them both.
This was surprisingly an entertaining read, perfect for those who love sweet romantic heroes who are very possessive and protective of their ladies. The characters were very likable too, well except for the obsessive "villain" who was a dangerous threat to Jack and Alexis' relationship. I love that there was character development between the H & h and the sex scenes were passionate and hot. The plot was a bit cliche though, but I enjoyed this book still. 3.5 generously rounded up to 4 stars.
I got this out of the blue and was very pleasantly surprised. I really did fall in love with Jack just like Alexis.
Jack was the type of hero you could love. Rich but not arrogant. Powerful without throwing it around. Alpha with a wonderful sweetness. He also was the type to show to show and prove. He made the story for me. Not saying I didn't like the heroine. She was good as well but I really fell for the hero.
The heroine Alexis was a hardworking woman with a lot of responsibility on her shoulders. She knew she wanted a forever after kind of love and doesn't think Jack can be that but he sets out to prove her wrong.
I think it was well done without too much unnecessary drama that can subtract from a story instead of add to it.
Originally I rated this book 4.5 stars. But I am now upgrading it to 5 stars as I constantly re-read this book and Jack is one of my all time favorite heroes.
Really good read. I enjoyed it more than I thought it would. I especially liked that the hero was 100% devoted and never waived in his feelings at all towards the heroine. Looking forward to more by this author.
This one was headed for a 3.5 stars until the h has a TSTL moment near the end, so I had to drop the half star. Super possesive, jealous, bossy alpha male turns reformed man ho and falls head over heals insta love for virgin. Needs a bit of editing but overall a cute story.
Ahh, yes. Mr. Hotness~relentless Jackson that I'd love to devour or hand myself over on a silver platter to... yeah. I was actually surprised that this had the twist it did. Enjoyed very much!
I really enjoyed this story about a young lady named Alexis and a very sexy billionaire called Jack. I loved the character development for both Alexis and Jack. Alexis has had a tough few years. Her Mum had died, she had medical bills to pay off and a sister to put through college. Alexis didn't have the time or money for a man. Jack had a rule of having sex with a woman once and never a repeat performance...until he met Alexis.
This story made me laugh. Jack came out with some of the corniest lines, but Alexis called him out on them every time. I was a little frustrated on behalf of Alexis having to be confronted regularly with Jack's previous hook ups. There was a mystery stalker that I guessed from the beginning. Some great side characters were introduced and I would love to read some stories for them.
Plenty of sexy times with lots of playfulness between the main characters. I loved Jack's single minded devotion to Alexis. Jack was a bossy, boss, boss, but luckily Alexis learnt to love him despite it.
This story read like a fairytale with a prince to sweep the maiden off her feet and carry her to his penthouse...well it is a modern fairytale.
I loved this story. I did remove a star because there were a couple of spelling and grammar mistakes and it was a touch predictable. It was a delightful read and I was very impressed by this author's debut novel.
Ok jack is pretty much the perfect man... :) I really enjoyed this! I did feel like it dragged from time to time and wished for a little more suspense throughout and definitely at the ending, but the romance and hotness made up for that! Both characters stayed true to one another and devoted to each other the entire time, which I appreciated.
Having read and loved This Thing of Ours. I went looking for Nico’s book but I got distracted by this (happens to me a lot). I was immediately hooked and loving it.
Jackson Cole is fabulous and it’s obvious that this author writes a brilliant romance hero. He’s sexy as sin and honest. I loved the way he explained everything, promised never to cheat or lie and he paid attention, always knowing when something was bothering her.
He was brilliant...
"...yes, I've had my fair share of women, I won't deny that, but not one of them caught my eye the way you have. And because I've had so many women, I should know when the right one comes along, and sweetheart, you are the right one. Only a fool would let the right one get away, so I am holding on tight because, sweetheart, I am no fool. "You say you don't trust me, that's okay, I'll get you there. But in the meantime, know this, I will be holding tight, I will be pushing hard, and I will not be letting go. I know you will dig your ground, push me back, and fight for escape, but in the end, you will not win. And I know this 'cause I never lose."/i>
Alexis was a different matter. I liked her initially but all the self doubt got on my last nerve. Yes it must be difficult knowing there’s so many gorgeous women out there from Jacks past. Yes he’s a handsome billionaire but she knows from the get go everything was different with her. She’s the only woman to sleep in his bed, to visit his penthouse. And he constantly lets her know how much he wants, needs and adores her. This insecurity and disbelief that Jack is with her was even harder to swallow when every time she goes anywhere men are falling over themselves for her. It was annoying. But Jackson was so amazing that I continued to enjoy the book.
My only problem in the first half was Alexis but Jackson more than made up for her.
The story and the pacing was fairly good in the first half. The second half was a different matter completely. For me it should have tied up loose ends and finished before the unnecessary drama. This drama led Alexis to a huge TSTL moment. And while we knew it was coming but it was still hard to take.
2.5 Stars This is the type of book I would’ve LOVED a decade ago when I was into the besotted billionaire trope. I’ve seen it compared to 50 Shades, but other than Jackson being super rich, possessive, and obsessed with his “not like other girls” virgin h, Alexis… it’s not really similar. Jack has zero emotional baggage, no sad backstory, no trauma, there’s no kinky fuckery, or Mrs. Robinson’s. Honestly, it’s pretty cheesy.
I picked it up because I saw it on an OW drama post, and it does deliver several OW situations, but most are over quickly, and the stalker subplot didn’t add much.
The blurb sets it up, Alexis is working when she meets Jack… who happens to be Jackson Cole the billionaire owner of the hotel/casino she works at. He's instantly smitten and decides he's all in.
The good… ✔️ Jack is swoony and uber devoted. Readers that love romance and book boyfriends should be pleased. ✔️ OW drama that only strengthens the couple. ✔️ Mature relationship with communication and no misunderstanding or ASSumptions.
The not-so good… ❌ There’s no drama or angst. It’s low on feels. ❌ The stalker situation that takes up much of the second half is glaringly obvious. It made ZERO sense that they wouldn’t consider the person it ends up being. ❌ It’s CHEESY.
He took hold of her hand and brought it to his chest. "Do you feel that?" "Your heart?" At his nod, she replied, "Yes." "It's beating just for you. From the first moment I saw you, it was yours.
"You are the breath I need to breathe. I live for you, Alexis. Without you, I am nothing."
Bottom Line- It was ok. I was bored much of the first 30%, but it picked up…some. You really need to be in the mood for fluff… or safe OW drama.
Was this a perfect book??.No .. but here are the reasons for my 5 stars. Its been a while since I could get lost in a book where I truly felt like it was a romance.. a love story where the hero isn't fighting his feelings or calling it temporary. No Jackson Cole was the perfect hero. I adored him from start to finish. The fact that there were no drawn out drama and misunderstandings just made it refreshing. Yes it had some cliche moments.. virgin heroine.. playboy hero. But what made it work was he regretted his past. he cherished his present and he fell hard and didn't try to land softly. Sarah.. I'll read anything you write if you continue giving me loyal no other women once he sees the one.. thats simple Sizzling pure romance.
Notes for Safe zone : No cheating but references to past history and exes.. but only small references. He doesn't touch anyone from the monent he meets the heroine. Although some crazy exes try to touch him. It only causes funny scenarios.
I bought this book based off a rec from one of my favorite authors and I'm glad I did! I like a strong Alpha male character and you get that with this book. I also really like how Alexis didn't fall all over herself with Jackson. He had to work to get her attention and he didn't take no for an answer. I will be checking out more of Sarah Curtis's books!