| Title | : | Release Me (Stark Trilogy, #1) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 0345544110 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9780345544117 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 345 |
| Publication | : | First published January 1, 2013 |
He was the one man I couldn’t avoid. And the one man I couldn’t resist.
Damien Stark could have his way with any woman. He was sexy, confident, and commanding: Anything he wanted, he got. And what he wanted was me.
Our attraction was unmistakable, almost beyond control, but as much as I ached to be his, I feared the pressures of his demands. Submitting to Damien meant I had to bare the darkest truth about my past—and risk breaking us apart.
But Damien was haunted, too. And as our passion came to obsess us both, his secrets threatened to destroy him—and us—forever.
Release Me is an erotic romance intended for mature audiences.
Release Me (Stark Trilogy, #1) Reviews
-
So, there's a new sexy billionaire in town,
And his name is,
Damien Stark...
"He's tall and so handsome that the word is almost an insult. He is Jason and Hercules and Perseus - a figure so strong and beautiful and heroic that the blood of the gods must flow through him, because how else could a being so fine exist in this world?"
- Okay, enough with the cheesy descriptions; let's just say he's a former well trained, athletic tennis player who now owns an entire empire of several businesses (including hotels, clubs and restaurants etc.), he's HOT, powerful, extremely rich and has a bit of a control freak problem... You know the type, right??
He's the type of guy that ALWAYS gets what he wants...
And what he wants now is no one other than the lovely Miss Nikki Fairchild,
When they first meet there's an immediate attraction between them and they both know it, so I thought: Oh this is going to be one of those stories, you know -
Right???
Turns out, Nikki has some dark secrets in her past and she's not quite ready for Damien to find out all the ugly scars she's been hiding...
So there's a lot of touching and teasing...
And Damien saying:"I'm going to fuck you, Nikki. Pleasure? We're going to blow the roof off pleasure. I'm going to make you beg for it. I'm going to claim you. I'm going to tease you. I'm going to torment you. And you're going to come for me like you've never come in your life."
But still, Nikki isn't prepared to let her world be turned upside down by this powerful, domineering man.
And then, he makes her an offer you'd think she can't refuse..."Take a chance, Nikki... Let me show you how far I can take you."
-- What will she do??? Can she thrust this man and his overpowering words??? Or will she be let down by her expectations in life once again...
Well now, that is for you to find out...
***
If you're looking for a HOT read with an interesting storyline, I'd definitely advise you to read Release Me!!! I know it gets compared to FSoG and the Crossfire Series a lot, but I actually found it to be quite different from those series. Release Me is not just another knock-off, there's actually much more to the story than just the "sexy rich guy that tries to seduce some sweet, innocent girl and gets away with it".
The characters each have a very strong and fascinating personality and the writing style of J. Kenner gives this story its own unique vibe. There were a few inconsistencies in the storyline here and there, but they didn't really bother me that much after all. As for the sex scenes; well, they were VERY hot and a little bit kinky but there really wasn't that much BDSM involved as you might think, based on the genre it's categorized under. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this story and I was also very relieved that there weren't any terrible cliffhangers at the end of this first part...
Definitely looking forward to the rest of the Stark Trilogy!!! And to more Damien of course... ;)
-
"He’s like an iceberg, Texas. The deep parts are well hidden and what you do see is hard and a little bit cold."
What to say about this book... Read this quote, you'll know enough :DHis mouth is at my ear, his voice so carnal, so full of lust, it makes my clit throb. “I’m going to f*ck you, Nikki. Pleasure? We’re going to blow the roof off pleasure. I’m going to make you beg for it. I’m going to claim you. I’m going to tease you. I’m going to torment you. And you’re going to come for me like you’ve never come in your life.”
Well enough to say that I really liked the book :D I see these comparisons with 50 Shades, but I guess I'm lucky because I haven't read those books and have nothing like them to compare this to.
Here are just my jumbled thoughts on the book...
THE STORY is pretty simple, not much of it, this book is mostly about the characters. So, Nikki is at a party, something like an art exibition, with a goal of finding a business partner for her new boss. Of course, the most desirable man for that position is Damien Stark, a gazillionaire, ex-tennis player and a successful businessman. The moment they see each other sparks fly all around, there is an attraction that Nikki wants to avoid, but Damien doesn't :D
Aaaaaaaand here comes the real story: Damien wants to have a painting done for his house, and he wants Nikki to be the model. He offers her one million dollars for one week while the painting is being done, and in that time he will completely own her. Sexually. I'm OK with that, as long as it doesn't spread to her personal life, dictating who she sees and what she does :D So anyway, she accepts even though she'd never done a kinky thing in her life, and doesn't date anymore, but I guess Damien's attraction is enormous :D Or maybe it's something else that's enormous... Hmm :D
MY THOUGHTS ON THE STORY - well there is a thing that really bothered me. She doesn't date very much (bad experiences), isn't into kink, but jumps right into the ownership without knowing Damian at all. I think it was the second or third day that they agreed on this. I mean... Seriously? I don't know if I'd accept a deal like that, but damn, I'd sure have to know the guy VERY much if I'd accept to be his sex slave for a week, and of course I'd educate myself a bit on what that would entail, which she basically knows nothing about. Ugh.
That done, I have one more thing that I really REALLY didn't like and found it freaky as all hell!!!
Don't read this if you plan to read the book, it's a big spoiler
Don't like that fact at all.
BDSM IN THE BOOK AND ALL THINGS KINKY - Damien really doesn't seem like a Dom to me. At all. There are some hot sexy scenes here and I could tell he likes to dominate and order around, but the overall feeling is that they just did some kinky things cause they liked it. I didn't get the feeling that Nikki was a sub, nope. She liked being tied up, I get that, and Damien is basically a God in bed, so yeah. She likes the kinky :D And some spanking :D But BDSM? Nope. Not here. At least I just didn't get that feeling at all. But it's fine by me, I like reading about kinky sex, and it was pretty hot here :D
THE WRITING - I am not a big fan of present tense writing (at all), but it didn't bother me much here. The style of writing was very good, even though... I hate to say it but some things were just over the top for me. Some of the descriptions... especially of Damien :D I don't know. I get that he's supposed to be the hottest and the most amazing man ever to live on the face of the Earth, but still...
DAMIEN STARK - I wouldn't like this book half as much if I didn't have Tony Stark from Iron Man in my head. I just love him. Totally. And utterly. And it's like the hero in this book really was written based on Tony. Except for the beard :D But he had a beard in my head so it's OK :DDD
Anyway, here's something you need to know about Damien. He's a billionaire. Barely thirty and an ex-tennis champion. He had a dark history that isn't really revealed in this book, but I sense it's pretty bad. He acts like he's forty instead of thirty, but hey, even the heroine noticed that he acts more mature for his age. So OK well done here, even though I like my heroes a bit older :D
He doesn't talk like a tennis player. I don't know how tennis players really talk, but I'd say they talk like normal people. He's a billionaire business man now, but he wasn't until a few years ago. I get that he has to be good with his words, but I think the author should have invented something else in his past instead of tennis. Just my opinion :D
Moving on... The man likes to dominate in the bedroom. He likes to have kinky sex, and he's damn hot! So yeah, I loved him even with all the inconsistencies :D
NIKKI FAIRCHILD - She's had a horrible childhood, much like Damien, and they're something like kindred souls. They both have masks and don't let anyone see them vulnerable.
So, something you need to know about Nikki... She used to hurt herself. Cut herself to be precise. She's had a lot of traumas back then and it was a way for her to cope. I get that. I thought maybe she was into pain, you know, if it makes her focused on reality or something, but no. So like I said, she isn't into BDSM nor did I see that she's submissive. She likes the kinky sex she has with Damien, and I understand her, poor woman, of course she would :D
She's not very understanding as a character and in almost every tricky situation she manages to form a totally wrong conclusion and fight with whoever she thinks did something wrong. Mostly Damien :D Poor guy :D
One more thing, and I couldn't stop laughing at this one :DDD
Don't read it if you plan to read the book, it's a big spoiler!
Another thing to show that's she's more on the stupid side, is the fact that she accepted to be owned sexually by a guy she met two days ago. No comment on that one.
MY OVERALL FEELINGS ABOUT THE BOOK - 3.5 stars but I'll round it to 4.
Even with all these things I mentioned, I really enjoyed the book :D I didn't get on my nerves, but I just had to say the stuff I noticed about it, so they aren't really THAT bad because the book is really good. Stark is yummy, love the guy, Nikki is OK even though I can't say I connected to her at all. I read somewhere that this book has a cliffhanger. It doesn't. Just so you know, don't feel apprehensive if that's what worries you. Everything isn't settled because there will be two more books, but it's a really nice happy end :) Hope you'll give it a shot :)
*ARC courtesy of Bantam via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review*
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DNF. I made it 25% in, but nothing about this story was grabbing me.
It is clearly trying to be a knock-off of the Fifty Shades and Crossfire series, and it was NOT working for me.
Damian is a bazillionaire hottie with an obsession for the sexy 24 y/o Texas college graduate Nikki; an obsession that apparently goes back many years. They only met briefly once 6 years ago, then again at a swanky party in LA California. They immediately start circling and sniffing each other like dogs in heat, spewing pithy and cliche comments at each and exchanging heated glares from across the room. We get a few glimpses into their past, and you can see the groundwork being set up that tells us both Damian and Nikki have dark and damaged pasts. And they are both jealous types, the claws are already coming out.
She provokes him to a jealous streak by talking/walking with her BFF (who happens to be a hot guy). Nikki over thinks every bit of every word said between them (this is excruciatingly told in first person), then after a bunch of hot/cold "I want you" and "I don't want you!" pithy comments, they confess how turned on they are for each other and start making out.
But wait... that would be too straight forward. Remember, this is a Fifty Shades knock-off. So Damian wants Nikki to call him 'sir' and take commands from him. He loves the fact that she wore painful shoes, cause it means she can handle some pain. Nikki's inner dialogue reminded me so much of the Fifty series, with a lot of "Oh, my!" "Gasp!" and so forth.
So this is where I exit stage left. I can't read anymore of this. The dialogue was cheesy and the plot border-lined on absurd. I wasn't feeling any chemistry between the H/h, their attraction felt contrived. I didn't like Fifty Shades but I love the Crossfire series, so I gave it a chance. Didn't work for me.
ARC copy provided by the publisher through Netgalley -
★★★★ 1/2! Stark Trilogy, book 1 (3.5). A debut by J. Kenner. The coming-together of two lost souls as multi-billionaire & kinky lover Damien Stark sets out on a relentless seduction of Southern belle Nikki Fairchild!
“Because I can. Because I want you. Because I don’t want to court my way up to our first fuck. And because I don’t want to play games.”
The Stark Trilogy is the whirlwind romance between former youth tennis-pro and self-made multi-billionaire Damien Stark and recent College graduate and former beauty queen Nikki Fairchild. On the outside they are both strikingly beautiful, but on the inside they are two broken, flawed and tortured souls. This is their story of secrets, painful pasts, revenge, lust, control and surrendering it all for love!
Book 1:
Release Me
Book 2:
Claim Me
Book 3:
Complete Me
Book 3.5:
Take Me
Release Me (book 1) opens up with Southern belle Nichole Fairchild, Nikki attending a fundraiser with her new boss. Also in attendance and the “target” for her boss’ new business venture is elusive billionaire entrepreneur and master-of-his-universe, Damien Stark. We quickly learn that Damien and Nikki have a past with Nikki, who has recently graduated with two degrees, having attended College on Scholarship from Stark’s foundation.
Their attraction is intense and undeniable, but Nikki resists. Damien, not easily deterred propositions her to pose nude for a painting for his new Malibu mansion. Follow them as Damien sets out not only to seduce her, but to possess her. Their story is plagued by secrets and villains, but also flecked with sinfully kinky moments and a chance at happiness as two lost souls learn to trust.
“I’m smart enough to know that you feel it, too. This isn’t just heat, it’s a goddamned conflagration. Not chemistry, but nuclear fission.”
Damien Stark is a combination of swoon-worthy good looks and larger-than life personality; he’s enigmatic, elusive; intense, kinky, in-control; broken, flawed; ruthless and unyielding, yet when it comes to Nikki he allows himself to be more vulnerable and human. Six words to describe Damien: Captivating, intense, ruthless, enigmatic, commanding and unforgettable.
“…the guy owns half the known universe. I hardly think he’d be all warm and fuzzy. More like dark and dangerous.”
I both connected with Nikki Fairchild and found her annoying, but no matter what I think of her she is who Damien wants! Six words to describe Nikki: Smart, vulnerable, broken, resilient, conflicted and determined.
“…Damien Stark is like crack to me. Seductive and very, very addictive.”
Release Me moves along at a comfortable pace with some shockers towards ending, but no cliff-hanger. Instead story leads us right to, book 2,
Claim Me for the continuation of their story.
Interesting plot! Compelling and captivating characters! Sizzling sex scenes! Great job Ms. Kenner! I am highly recommending!“Maybe this man does have secrets and skeletons. But right now, I’m seeing his heart. And I like what I see.”
***
Hero rating: 5 stars
Heroine rating: 3.5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4 stars
Storyline concept rating: 4 stars
Storytelling skills rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: N/A
Book editing rating (5 = no edits spotted): 5 stars
************************************************
Overall rating: 4.5 stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Maybe later.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
-
'You’re mine,' he says.
'I know,' I reply, and I mean it completely.
This is another one of those books that will inevitably be compared to Fifty Shades and the Crossfire books which is really going to deter as many readers as it attracts but, in my opinion at least, this is a really good one, even if it is very similar. If you like a darkly brooding, domineering hero, a feisty yet troubled heroine and a kinky, sexy romance, you’re going to want to check this one out. This is deeply sensual and the story packs an emotional punch that I really hadn’t expected.
Our tortured bazillionaire is Damien Stark, a former professional tennis player who has invested his very successful career winnings into industry and made a not-so-small fortune. The object of his obsessive desire is Nikki Fairchild, a former pageant queen and science graduate from Texas who is now trying to make her way in Los Angeles. They meet at a party and their mutual attraction is instant and raw and primal.
Damien is edgy, dangerous and intense, has odd eyes full of dark promise and is like a raven-haired God and Nikki is instantly mesmerised by his self-assured presence. He is, of course, proprietary, demanding and attempts to micro-manage Nikki’s life. She rails against him, fights her desire and their path is and was always going to be a tortured one.
They’ve both had difficult childhoods being forced into things they didn’t really want to be involved in because of their talents by overly ambitious parents. They both have some skeletons in their closets which cast lengthy shadows over their lives today. Nikki eventually opens up and bares her soul to Damien, confessing everything that has hurt her but Damien is much more of a closed book, keeping everything close to his chest.
They share some pretty intensely sensual scenes and these are fabulously written with an anticipation that builds and certainly hits all the right buttons. It’s steamy and only slightly kinky – BDSM-lite at the most with just some light bondage and toys involved but it’s very, very sexy.
There's no real cliffhanger here but much is left unresolved and I feel sure that there will be sequels and there's a host of interesting secondary characters to flesh out the story, some nice and some really unpleasant.
So, if you enjoyed Fifty Shades, the Crossfire Books, Raine Miller’s Blackstone books you’re definitely going to enjoy this one. It's compelling, engaging and I was thoroughly engrossed. This is an early review; the official release date is January 1st 2013 and I can’t think of a better way to start a new year than to download this book and curl up with it.
4 stars steamy romance
ARC courtesy of Random House via NetGalley
For more reviews, please visit
Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews -
Yes, with DAMIEN STARK!!!! I know he’s yours Nikki….but
I really liked this book. I know a lot of readers have commented on it being a lot like FSOG (which I have read and loved……
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...) and Bared to You (which I haven’t read but it’s on my TBR list).
I suppose there are a few similarities between this book and FSOG – the controlling and sexy billionaire who becomes obsessed with gorgeous and damaged woman, etc…but the one big difference is the writing. So much better written. The writing style just makes the story flow so well. Also there’s more to the story than rich man gets poor woman!!!!!!Then there are the characters, which I found much more real and endearing.
Let’s talk about Damien Stark. In the beginning, I had a few doubts about him. The way he manipulated and “stalked” Nikki was a bit off-putting. But then, I began to see that beneath all that was a man, filled with dark secrets and controlling issues, but still retaining a sense of caring. Under that façade is a man with a heart. He can destroy his enemies but he does help and give to those he cares about.
Nikki hides a lot behind the “face” she shows the world. She’s damaged in a lot of ways, both psychologically and physically. What I liked about her was the strength she displayed in dealing with her problems. She’s smart and sassy. Although I wanted to slap her back each time she slapped Damien’s face….what the hell girl!!!!!
It's true...I so loved and enjoyed reading about Damien’s world of ultimate luxury…fabulous homes all over the place, private jets, butlers, beautiful cars……..I could get used to that kind of life!!!!!!!!!!
There are some interesting secondary characters and I would love to know more about Jenna and Ollie….perhaps their story sometime soon!!!!
The sex scenes were very well-written with more sexy kinky bondage rather than heavy BDSM (which I am not a great fan of).
I loved the chemistry between Damien & Nikki. Their story is filled with passion and sensuality. But what I loved the most was that it was a love story about two people who fall in love and help each other with facing their demons and dealing with them together.
I can’t wait for more…….
-
THIS REVIEW WAS POSTED AT ANGIE'S DREAMY READS
**WARNING THIS REVIEW CONTAINS TONS OF SWOONTASTIC SWOONING!! READ AT YOUR OWN RISK ;) **
5 SCORCHING DAMIEN STARK STARS
Calling all Fifty Shades Of Grey fans!!! This.Is.It. YESSSSSSSSSSS...You heard me!!!! A series that’s similar to Fifty but NOT an exact replica. Hallefreakinlujah! This is the book I have been seeking out since I first read the Fifty series. I didn't want to read something exactly the same but craved something alike. This book has a life of it’s own and in my opinion was fanfreakintastic and almost beat out the Fifty series (I said ALMOST...lol)!! Damien was EXACTLY what this girl needed! I wanted something sizzling and I GOT IT. I wanted something where the guy swept the girl off her feet and I GOT IT. I wanted something where it was love/lust at first sight and I GOT IT. I wanted a sexy steamy romance with characters that have some issues and I GOT IT. Is there a ton of plot in this?? NO but that being said what there is I LOVED!!
LOVED, LOVED, LOVED
Ok, ok....I know at this point you’re thinking SHUT UP Angie and review the darn book! BUT I am giddy with excitement. Seriously... O.M.G Damien Stark is delicious, dreamy and decadent, smoking hot and vulnerably sweet, strong and commanding, dominant and gentle and the list NEVER ends. This girl is on full on L.O.V.E mode.
[image error] -
I’m so thrilled to share this unique book with you! A story, plus Damien’s letters & journal entries, along with interviews of him, Nikki, and more! Don’t miss it!
(Link to the print edition coming sooooon!)
books2read.com/DamienInterview
Reminder: an extra Nikki & Damien scene is in the Release day book! (And in every print edition — retailer print links coming soon!). So if you’re getting the ebook, grab it today!
***
It's #StarkOnSaturday! And 3 days to INTERVIEW WITH THE BILLIONAIRE and more Damien!!!!
!!
PreOrder the digital version for Bonus Content! (Bonus scene will be included in the print edition - retailer links coming soon!)
Find Vendors Here!
“You’ve already given me everything I could ever want. Right now, I just want to enjoy what’s mine.”
She grinned. “That would be pretty much everything across many acres. Not to mention huge chunks of Los Angeles. And the world for that matter.”
“You’re thinking far too big. The only possession I intend to enjoy right now is the one in this room with me.”
Her eyes widened as she looked around the room. “The bed? The furniture? Or perhaps the light fixtures?”
“You.”
She eased to the bed and sat at the foot. “Mr. Stark, are you suggesting that I’m your possession? That you own me?”
“I’m not suggesting at all. I’m stating it outright.”
“Well, I don’t know about that. Do you have a bill of sale? Some sort of contract? After all, transfer of title is a highly regulated transaction. You should be able to provide proof of ownership.”
He patted himself down, then aimed a frown at her as he took a step closer. “I seem to have misplaced the documents. I wonder if I could provide you some other proof?”
He moved closer still so that she had to lean back and tilt her head up to look at him. “And what kind of proof would that be?” she asked.
“Familiarity with my property, for starters. An intimate knowledge. How this lovely trinket I own feels.”
***
Only 6 more days to Interview With the Billionaire!
Be sure to PREORDER your digital copy!
****An extra Nikki & Damien steamy scene will be in the digital preorder/release day release! (And in every print edition!)***
***
Interview with the Billionaire
-
“Possess. Have. Hold. Enjoy. Control. Dominate. Pick your verb Ms Fairchild. I intend to explore so very many of them.”
4.5 Steamy Stars!
Meet Damien Stark
“He’s ... intense.” Hot. Sexy. Surprising. Disturbing.
and Nikki Fairchild
n
Nikki is fresh out of collage and ready for a clean slate. She moves from Texas to LA to live with her best friend, Jamie. New city. New job. New start.
She is at a party looking to hook a potential investor for her boss. Damien Stark is that potential investor.
Damien is a retired tennis pro, and a young, successful business man. Damien and Nikki met briefly a few years ago at a pageant. Nikki remembers Damien very well (you can’t forget a man like Damien Stark). She thinks there is no way he remembers her... but she is very wrong. Damien is intrigued by Nikki. He remembers her very well. He is a man who knows what he wants, and he wants her.
Nikki wants Damien too, but she is afraid. She has scars (figuratively and literally). After being turned down, Damien offers Nikki a lot of money for an ‘art proposition’. She can’t refuse, and she doesn’t want to. They have a spark. A definite connections... but they both have dark and damaged pasts and secrets of their own.
Wow... Nikki and Damien have chemistry. There are some hot and steamy sex scenes, with some light bdsm.
“I’m going to fuck you, Nikki. Pleasure? We’re going to blow the roof off pleasure. I’m going to make you beg for it. I’m going to claim you. I’m going to tease you. I’m going to torment you. And you’re going to come for me like you’ve never come in your life.”
“Maybe you’re not as smart as you think you are, Mr. Stark.”
“Nonsense. I’m fucking brilliant. Or haven’t you heard?”
Damien is possessive. He is rich. He is sexy. He is young and successful. I really loved this guy! He is the best kind of alpha male. He loved Nikki, scars and all, you could tell how much by his words and actions.
“Everyone breaks a little sometimes. That doesn't make you weak. It makes you wounded. And I will always be there to help you heal.”
Nikki is smart, strong, ambitious and feisty. She has issues and she can be insecure, but she has a back bone. She is trying to get through her issues and is fighting her demons.
I heard from the beginning that this book is comparable to FSOG and Bared to you. It does have similarities, but it’s not a copy cat story, which was nice.
Enjoyable read, loved both of the main characters! The ending was not a mega cliff hanger, but still left you wanting more! Can’t wait to see Nikki and Damien’s relationship progress and find out more about their pasts! -
BOOK #5 IS COMING OUT IN 2 DAYS!
In need of a fresh start, Nikki Fairchild moves from Texas to Los Angeles to live with her best friend and honor her degrees in electrical engineering and computer science. And just four days after arriving at the city of angels, she is asked by her boss to attend a party to get Damien Stark’s attention. What her boss doesn’t know is that they go way back to when they met at one of her pageants.
“You’re staring,” I finally say.
“You’re beautiful.”
Damien Stark is a retired tennis pro with a successful business in the tech world. But that is just what the world knows about him because guess what? There’s so much more to that man.
“Because Damien Stark is like crack to me. Seductive and very, very addictive.”
He remembers Nikki. How could he forget the only woman he ever wanted? But when he tries to seduce her, she plays hard to get, so proposing her a deal seems to be the only option. And that deal would be a nude of her plus a week with her in exchange for a million dollars. But, trust me on this, that’s not all they will be getting out of this deal.
“Never, baby. Between us, the sun is never going down.”
Full review available at
Under the Pages.
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4.5+ Passionate Star-k-s
Passion: any powerful or compelling emotion or feeling, as love or hate, amorous feeling or desire; love; ardor, strong sexual desire; lust.
“Do you know what passion is?” I blink, confused. “Most people think it only means desire. Arousal. Wild abandon. But that’s not all. The word derives from the Latin. It means suffering. Submission. Pain and pleasure, Nikki. Passion.”
A fascinating story about smoldering attraction, skeletons in the closet, painful memories, toxic realtionships, masks we put on for the public and red-hot sex on fire.
“Possess. Have. Hold. Enjoy. Control. Dominate.”
Nikki Fairchild and Damien Stark are two accomplished individuals. Polished, perfect and beautiful.
But that's what the others see. The facade, they put on for the public.
Beautiful people are everywhere, and we are alike in our plastic-ness. Me, the people, even the mannequins in the windows. We’re all hiding behind our masks, strutting our stuff, pretending to be perfectly perfect.
Nikki is a former pageant queen. Controlled and abused by her mother, shattered by her sister's suicide, unable to properly handle emotions and deeply scarred on the inside and the outside. A computer genius, a strong and determined woman.
...then the crowd parts and I see the man in profile. Goose bumps rise on my arms, but I’m not cold. In fact, I’m suddenly very, very warm. He’s tall and so handsome that the word is almost an insult. But it’s more than that. It’s not his looks, it’s his presence. He commands the room simply by being in it...
Damien is a former champion tennis player. A child prodigy, a genius and billionaire mogul. Misused by his father and coach, probably abused, orphaned. He is as expected, a control freak, powerful, confident, protective but not smothering, hot and sexy.
These two people make sense together, they want and they need each other. And yeap just to draws deeper and entice us there is also a nude portrait and a million dollars... *sigh*
“I am smart, Nikki,” he says. “I’m smart enough to know that you feel it, too. This isn’t just heat, it’s a goddamned conflagration. Not chemistry, but nuclear fission.”
“Why?” I whisper. “Why does everything fall away when I’m with you?” “Because there’s nothing else,” he answers. “Nothing but you and me.”
There is no running away scared, no let's leave this wound fester, nothing untold. They lay bare in front of each other, vulnerable and equals.
“Everyone breaks a little sometimes. That doesn’t make you weak. It makes you wounded. And I will always be there to help you heal.”
They "belong" and thank God this isn't one of this isn't one of I-leave-you-hanging-hold-your-breath-for-6-months-until-the-next novels. Yeap, there are threads dangling and stories to be told, but we are settled. And satisfied. And curious.
Nikki and Damien they deserve their own haven their own.... sunset.
“Look outside,” Damien whispers. “What do you see?” “It’s sunset,” I say playfully as I look over my shoulder to once again meet his eyes. He presses his mouth to my ear, and there’s nothing playful in his tone. “Never, baby. Between us, the sun is never going down.” “No,” I whisper, feeling safe and satisfied. “Never.”
REALLY EXCITED TO READ THE NEXT!!!!
P.S: Authors, editors, publishers, (I don't know who is responsible for the marketing, probably the publisher) stop comparing your books to Fifty Shades or Crossfire, you don't do them justice. You underestimate them and you make us cautious. This book is fantastic and exciting and sensual on its own, no need for comparisons. -
Damien Stark is just one of those dark, quiet types. He’s like an iceberg, Texas. The deep parts are well hidden and what you do see is hard and a little bit cold.”
Well what can I tell you about my thoughts on this book...
seems to be an adequate description.
I didn't love it. I didn't hate it. To be honest, I'm having a hard time remembering anything about it and I just finished reading it.
I never really connected with the story, or the characters. I suppose you can say it was a case of 'been there, read that'.
There was Nikki:
Nikki is a former Texas beauty queen, currently working for a company that is looking for Damien Stark's investment. Thankfully she wasn't an excessively naive virgin, but she still gave me an eye roll or 12 through the book.
Then there's Nikki's mother:
I think that about covers that...
And then we have Damien Stark
I have to admit that Damien peaked my interest. The few crumbs that we were given about his past is the only thing that intrigue me enough to continue with this series.
As for my thoughts?
Nikki and Damien's penchant for referring to one another as Mr.Stark and Ms.Fairchild
The story?
That was about it. There were bits and pieces here and there that didn't have to do with how much Damien wanted Nikki, or how hot Nikki was for Damien, but they kind of got lost in the process for me.
Damien's "kinkiness"?
I ask you, why is it that whenever a few spankings, control, and light bondage is involved, all of a sudden the hero is kinky? Maybe I've been desensitized to this sort of thing by reading the Lexi Blakes, Cherise Sinclairs, and Shayla Blacks? I don't know
I mean Damien was very hot, and I did enjoy his character a lot. So he likes to be called Sir during sex. OK. But I wouldn't really go so far as to call him a Dom. At least not to me. Guess I'll have to see what happens in the next two books.
The Sex
MEH. This happens very rarely to me, but I found myself skipping through not only a lot of the book, but the sex scenes as well. I know! Shocking right? This is me we're talking about here! I love me my smutty smut. And here I find myself thinking
Now before you start grabbing your pitchforks and torches, I'll say that it was not due to lack of hotness. The steam was definitely there. It's just that I never really connected to this book, so I had a hard time being interested in the sexy part of it either.
Truthfully, I was neither here nor there while reading it. I have no opinion on it one way or another. I can't say it was bad, but then I can't say it was great either.
My brain while reading Release Me?
There was a very interesting set up for the next book, and I'm curious to see how it plays out. I'll reserve my judgement of this series until I read book 2 and 3. So fingers crossed.
So that will be all for this girl's ramblings here. I'm off to read Claim Me.
And I thank you!
For more reviews visit:
Dirty Girl Romance Book Blog -
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BOYS AND GIRLS, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, I WOULD LIKE YOU ALL TO MEET THE MAN OF THE HOUR - MR. DAMIEN STARK:
He’s tall and so handsome that the word is almost an insult. But it’s more than that. It’s not his looks, it’s his presence. He is Jason and Hercules and Perseus—a figure so strong and beautiful and heroic that the blood of the gods must flow through him, because how else could a being so fine exist in this world? His face consists of hard lines and angles that seem sculpted by light and shadows, making him appear both classically gorgeous and undeniably unique. His dark hair absorbs the light as completely as a raven’s wing, but it is not nearly as smooth. Instead, it looks wind-tossed, as if he’s spent the day at sea.
Damien Stark was a famous tennis player who's most likely friends with Christian Grey, Gideon Cross, Braden Carmichael, James Cavendish, Jesse Ward - A genius, sexy, hot, possessive, control-freak young billionaire. A type of guy who gets exactly what and who he wants.
And as of the moment, he has his eyes set on Ms. Nikki Fairchild
They met at a party and from the moment they laid their eyes on each other, an intense connection has been made.
But of course, not everyone is perfect. And for Nikki, as much as she wants to let go and just forget about everything, she just can't. She has some dark secrets of her own that she's not yet ready to tell (or show) to Damian yet. But being the possessive and dominant guy that he is, he try his best to persuade Nikki into giving in. And for some moments, she does....
“I’m going to fuck you, Nikki. Pleasure? We’re going to blow the roof off pleasure. I’m going to make you beg for it. I’m going to claim you. I’m going to tease you. I’m going to torment you. And you’re going to come for me like you’ve never come in your life.”
Since Nikki is determined to keep all her secrets to herself, Damian can simply not accept it. He cannot give up on Nikki just like that. He is willing to do almost anything and everything just to own her... So he makes her an offer that she cannot refuse. . Nikki, despite her uncertainty, agreed to Damian's offer.
Then their story begins....
“Do you know what passion is? Most people think it only means desire. Arousal. Wild abandon. But that’s not all. The word derives from the Latin. It means suffering. Submission. Pain and pleasure, Nikki. Passion. Do you trust me?”
Nikki is not just the only one tortured and tainted in this story, but Damien also has a past that is haunting himself. What would that be? That's for everyone to find out.“Why? Why does everything fall away when I’m with you?”
“Because there’s nothing else, Nothing but you and me.”
So, I understand that everyone has been comparing this book to FSOG and the likes, but seriously? Just because the guy is a kinky dominant billionaire doesn't mean the story is the same. Hell, if it is, then almost 90% of the books we are currently reading isn't exactly original. It ain't fair.
Anyway, I personally love the story. I enjoyed reading it. The characters are very likable and Damian always makes me smile every time he tries to sweep Nikki off her feet, or persuade her into accepting his proposition. I also love his dirty, dirty mouth. It does has some kind of BDSM scenes in it, but nothing too hardcore or dark. Basically it's all just for pleasure. The scenes are hot and sexy as fvck. Some might be a bit too fast but the others... oh the others, I think I needed a cold shower or a bucket of ice after them.
Overall, I do recommend this to people who are into those tortured billionaires. Yes, if you are a fan of the series I mentioned before, then help yourself. Read the book, I highly recommend it. If not, then skip it and read something else that's going to suit your taste.
P.S.
This is a trilogy. The next 2 books are coming soon and I CANNOT WAIT!!! -
Here we go again. Another romance book about a gorgeous billionaire businessman (who knew that there were so many of them?) and his lady love. Meet Damien Stark, a former tennis star and now rich entrepreneur. Damien is handsome, beautiful, magnificent – insert adjectives here. In fact, he is so stunning that the first third of the book is dedicated to waxing poetic about Damien’s good looks. I get it! He’s rich and powerful and gorgeous. Can we get on with the story, please?
I did like Damien’s love interest Nikki Fairchild. It was refreshing to see a character that was well educated with degrees in both electrical engineering and computer science. A former child beauty pageant participant, Nikki was a straight A student and earned a scholarship from Damien’s Fellowship committee. Nikki also knew that her looks were the reason she was hired as an assistant to the owner of a technology company. I liked that Nikki had plans for her future and those plans involved launching her own company.
OK, so why the 2 star rating? I kept getting that “déjà-lu” feeling when I read this book. Sure, the sexy scenes were hot and the characters had chemistry together. BUT – I feel like I’ve already read this book before which is a shame because it really is well written. I kind of wish it had been written before the hoopla that surrounds that other trilogy.
The book felt formulaic: Obscenely rich billionaire (are there any other kinds?) meets young college graduate, playful emails are exchanged, some hot and steamy moments ensue, a little kink is thrown in for good measure, a bad guy stalks the happy couple, there is a misunderstanding that causes a temporary breakup, they get back together, even more steamier sex scenes, and a happily ever after.
Basically, if you loved the Fifty Shades trilogy and are looking for something similar, then Release Me is a book you will most likely enjoy. If you are looking for a nice, well written romance with a touch of kink and didn’t mind Fifty Shades, you may also like this book. Personally, I am looking for something fresh and new.
Thank you to NetGalley, Edelweiss and Random House for a review copy of this book.
Review posted on
Badass Book Reviews. -
"For fans of Fifty Shades of Grey and Bared to You comes an erotic, emotionally charged romance between a powerful man who’s never heard “no” and a fiery woman who says “yes” on her own terms." Blah… blah… blah…. So tired of the comparison to FSoG and BtY as the hook to entice readers to pick up a book. I do get it, just sick of it. Like this book is going to win an award for THE NEXT IT BOOK!
Okay, so I requested an ARC of this book and was thrilled that my request was granted… I of course have read all of the above-mentioned books as well as many, many, many more in the same vain. I like a hot rich alpha male and hot sex and an angsty storyline; it’s like the trifecta of erotic romance for me. This book did not break my winning streak and I was pleasantly surprised at how connected I felt to the H/h. The author has a smart writing style and I appreciate how she gave her characters the right amount of intelligence, wit, confidence, and insecurities as well as troubled past to make me believe and feel for them.
I especially enjoyed Damien; the former tennis sensation, broken childhood, science smart, entrepreneur turned bazillionaire with dark hair and mixed matched eyes (tennis injury) one amber the other dark. He was dominant yet allowed himself to be submissive with Nikki. He laughed, he cared, he was not over the top cray cray… he felt real, human and I wanted him as much as Nikki did.
Nikki impressed me as well. She had a very effed up childhood with a horribly controlling mean Mother that resulted in Nikki doing painful things to herself. Nikki is smart and you will find out how Nikki and Damien came to know of one another through this common bond (kindred spirits) and how all of this ties into the storyline.
The secondary characters were fun and interesting and I am sure we will get to know more about them as I believe this is going to be a three book series (of course) and I am interested in discovering more behind the mystery;
The sex scenes were typical of this genre; some role-playing, a few toys, phone sex, call me sir stuff “Possess. Have. Hold. Enjoy. Control. Dominate. Pick your verb, Ms. Fairchild. I intend to explore so very many of them.”-Damien
The sex was a slow yet enticing build and there was not full penetration until well into the book and by the end we get “I want to belong to you, I want to belong completely” -Nikki.
All in all I do believe there is enough “meat” to this storyline that will have readers devouring this book and anxiously awaiting the next installment.
To the author,
J. Kenner… I love wine, dark chocolate and books, too!
*ARC courtesy of Random House via NetGalley -
Oh god what can I say about Damien???He is many things; sexy, smart, confident and irresistible. He is one man that can get whatever he wants, whether charming his way there or using the many resources he has at his disposal. Few can resist him and now he's spotted the perfect woman and is determined to have her!!!I like him from the first time I saw him..
I love Damien and Nikki together. She softens the hard edges of his heart just enough for you to really feel the depth of his feelings for her.
Their banter is hilarious.
Their personalities really do compliment each other and allow the reader to feel like you are a part of the beginning of a beautiful relationship that is slowly blossoming..
I give this book only 4 stars because I dint like a lot the sex scenes.. :/
My Damien and Nikki
-
hmmm
fuck me, if I remember this book?! LOL
no, seriously, i thought I have already read it BUT surprise, surprise, i haven't, obvs *smirks*
yeah, i'm gonna re-review this...or whatever, I'm rectifying my mistake by reading it, for real!
A passionate, mildly kinky, sexual relationship between the billionare/ex-pro athleete Damien Stark and Nikki Fairchild, an ex-beauty pageant queen/science tech savvy will transcend into a web of hidden secrets of each other's pasts, while they slowly give into each other peeling layer by layer...but how much can one person take and tap her way out of the dark, while these layers are being peeled off...
BUT considering the story line, I actually enjoyed it a lot...and I really don't see too much of a resemblance to the FSOG other than the light bdsm factor but not even that should be considered at this point.
In fact, unlike the FSOG, this story is solid, characters better portrayed, more deeply fabricated *smirks* and actually better written than the famous mentioned trilogy.
But that s just my humble opinion😉 -
5 smutastic stars!
Yes. This is another story about an impossibly gorgeous bazillionare who becomes obsessed with a mysterious & more than slightly broken young woman. Yes. There are countless books out there focusing on the same or a similar theme. What makes this one different? What makes this one stand out among the countless other books attempting to jump on the Fifty Shades of Grey & Bared to You bandwagon? It's very simple. The writing.
J Kenner is a good author. I mean, really good. Her writing style captured my attention immediately, and while I initially thought this book was a bit slow to get into, once I did...whoa boy, there was no way I was going to stop reading until the end.
Nikki is not your everyday heroine. She has similarities to Eva from
Bared to You. But Nikki's demons are more about anxiety and lack of control over her own life. Her character felt very real to me, and I could totally understand her insecurities. And because of that I wasn't constantly yelling at her in my head about holding herself back from Damien for so long. Because the reasons that she did...made sense.
Damien Stark....oh Lordy, where do I begin?
At first I thought he was an asshat. A sexy asshat, but an asshat nonetheless. But I quickly warmed up to his demanding & possessive demeanor. Yes some of his behavior bordered on stalkerish, but damn if i wasn't able to overlook the bad in order to see all the good qualities simmering underneath the hard surface. He truly cared about Nikki. Right from the beginning. And the way he helped her fight her demons was so sweet and beautiful that I dare anyone to read this book and not feel your heart melt for him at some point.
Now...let's get down to business.
The sex?!
Off. The. Charts.
Once again, J Kenner is a damn good author. She writes some amazingly hot sex scenes. Even when the 2 main characters aren't even in the same location. I'm a big fan of dirty talk in books, and seriously? Damien has to be one of my all time favorites in that department.
"Dinner is just the beginning. I want to touch you," he says, his voice low and commanding. "I want to run my hands over every inch of you. I want you wet for me. I want to finish what we started, Ms Fairchild. I want to make you come."
"Pleasure? We're going to blow the roof off pleasure. I'm going to make you beg for it. I'm going to claim you. I'm going to tease you. I'm going to torment you. And you're going to come for me like you've never come in your life."
*eyes glaze over*
Um...uh...what? Where was I?! *cough*
Annnnnyway... this book may sound like a lot of others out there. But, this one as well as another one of my recent favorites
The Pleasures of Winter, stand out among a sea of wanna-be FSOG clones. One of the main differences happen to be that both blow that little book out of the water. They are both far more well written, the characters are much more real and endearing and yes...even the sex is hotter. ;)
So, give this one (and TPOW) a try and strap yourselves in for one hell of an erotic roller coaster ride!
Read more reviews at my boog:
http://ravingbookaddict.blogspot.com/ -
My Nikki and Damien:
"Damien Stark is just one of those dark, quiet types. He’s like an iceberg, Texas. The deep parts are well hidden and what you do see is hard and a little bit cold.”
Damien Stark is rich, famous, good-looking, successful and full of secrets. He is also a little bit rude, straightforward, unbelievably charismatic and always gets what he wants. Only thing he misses in his life is honesty from people around him. They always tell him what he wants to hear, not what they really think. But there is one woman, Miss Nikki Fairchild. Ambitious, beautiful, smart and energetic. And Mr. Stark cannot help himself but be intrigued by her...
“He’s … intense.” Hot. Sexy. Surprising. Disturbing. No, it’s not Stark that’s disturbing—it’s my reaction to him."
But Nikki has her own secrets. Very dark ones which she doesn't want to revisit. After moving to LA and starting new job, she plans to start new period in her life as well. With huge ideas about starting her own business, all she needs is initial capital. And than a proposition comes by Mr. Damien Stark himself. If Nikki wants to be with Damien, she will have no other choice than open up to him. But is she ready?
I really liked the fact that event though Nikki was extremely affected by Damien, she stayed true to herself and didn't submit easily (I like when hero has to fight for girl in a book). Moreover, finally I found heroine who is able to accept gifts without winning and always talk about problems instead of ignoring them. It was really refreshing. And Damien? He was hot and cold. Fire and ice. One second he was sweet and passionate, and next second he was completely distant and shut off. But I liked him. He is exactly that kind of male character that you have to be mesmerized by. And he could be very cheaky too :)“But I promise to keep you fully tethered to me. No sailing into space.” His grin turns wicked. “Not unless it’s me who’s sending you there.”
The beginning of this book was not so exciting for me. And I could not really believe their immediate attraction or how obssessed were Damien and Nikki with each other right from the very beginning. But even though this story has its flows, they never bothered me much and I enjoyed reading it. I'm very curious what is going to happen with characters, what secrets they will reveal next time and what problems they will have to face. I will definitely continue in this series! And I'm very thankful for ending without a cliffhanger. I was affraid of one, but fortunatelly author decided not to torture her readers. Highly recommended for all adult romance readers!
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG -
I tried to like this book. I do not have a memorable feeling with Miss Kenner's book. When I read many good reviews on Release Me, I thought I give it another chance.
I am sorely disappointed. The plot is very similar to FSOG. Release Me lacks of originality. The main character Damien is more like secondary character in the story. He only hovering in the background.
The development from 1 plot/ scene to another, is lacking. I feel confuse following the story development. The chemistry between Damien and Nikki is also cold and forced. Where is that vulnerable connection?
I wish Miss Kenner can have her own originality in Release Me. Brings forward Damien as the main character.
Overall, I do not enjoy this book.
2 stars -
Actual Rating: 1 star.
It's not really that I didn't like this book, is that I wasn't impressed at all. I have read this same story so many times already that I couldn't help but to get distracted. As a result, I missed some parts of the book, but really, it was not as if I was interested enough in the story to go back and reread what I had missed, besides, the storyline has such a basic and predictable structure that I knew I wouldn't miss anything major anyway.
P.S.: Big deja-vú on the "Fifty Shades of Gray" and "Crossfire" series.
Originality is NOT a word that defines this book. -
Review posted at
SoManyBooksSoLittleTime -
Zzzzzzzzz…. Zzzzzzzzz…. Snooze alert!
I’m sorry; I just could not get into this book. At about 50% in, I was still waiting for something exciting to happen and had to force myself to hurry up and finish it. I thought it was lacking in emotional depth, resulting in a failure to really connect as a reader with the characters. Everything seemed so superficial and contrived to me – I didn’t feel as if they were actually communicating AT ALL and that was one of the main reasons the story just didn’t work for me.
RELEASE ME definitely had potential, but ultimately failed to deliver the goods in the end.
✳✳ Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.
______________________________________________________________________
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Oh thank God! I really didn't think I had it in me to read another erotic romance revolving around a heroine who is a meek and virginal little twit!
Luckily for me this author has managed to stay away from that over played stereo type! But I have to admit I almost didn't read this book purely based on the fact that the back cover says that it is aimed at fans of FSOG and Bared to You.
Don't get me wrong I liked both books (Bared to You more then Fifty Shades) but I am so sick of all the copy cat books jumping on the gravy train! Some of them have admittedly been good but others have been SO VERY BAD! And I have reached the point where I am almost not bothered to give these books a try. But I am glad I changed my mind about this one!
And to be honest this book wasn't all that similar. The story centers around Damien Stark a sexy and enigmatic former tennis champion turned wealthy business man. And Nikki Fairchild a former child/teen beauty pageant Queen. Both have deep seated issues with control and trust stemming from some serious childhood trauma. I watch Toddlers and Tiaras so I KNOW! Lol :)
Yes Damien is an Alpha Male, dominant,controlling and a little kinky. IMHO that is awesome! But what is truly refreshing about this book is Nikki. Despite her very real issues, she genuinely stands up for her self and seems like a mature and relativity rational person. I actually found her relatable and did not want to bitch slap her once!
This book is definitely worth a read! -
4.5 stars. This book was hot!! I loved it. Although it reminded me of FSOG it was still an awesome read. One I would recommend to all readers.
-
He's Mine, Ladies!
I have read this book two or three times over the past several years and I still love it! Damien Stark is my book boyfriend for life. I may try newer models but I always come back to him.
Don't worry. It's an open relationship. 😘
Damien and Nikki Fairchild come with a TON of baggage - seriously, it's a crap ton! - that starts to come to light from the beginning. Together, in spite of all of their past and present hurts, they sizzle and shine."I don't do public sex." [Damien] nips my ear. "I do everything else, though," he whispers.
🔥❤️🔥🔥
I think my favorite supporting character is Evelyn. I totally want to be like her when I grow up! She's fierce, whimsical, protective, eccentric, and doesn't give a shit what anyone says. Oh, and she's happy to be a cougar. You get 'em, girl!
This time, I changed things up and borrowed the audio book from my local library. I must say, Sofia Willingham sounds EXACTLY as I've imagined Nikki all of these years. She does a good job with Damien but it's not as I expected him to sound.
Story: 5 stars
Narration: 4 stars
UPDATED 6/2023:
I am happily listening to this again. *sigh* I need to make sure the library makes good use of their license, right? 😘
And yes, Damien still has my heart and everything else tied up. Yum! ⚡️💘🎗🪢📸🗝🔗🛏🧯🔥🫠❤️🔥🩷
Story: 5 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Listening Speed: 1.75x -
“Possess. Have. Hold. Enjoy. Control. Dominate. Pick your verb, Ms. Fairchild. I intend to explore so very many of them.”
Nikki Fairchild has just moved to California to start a new life. She recently graduated from graduate school and is trying to get her foot in the door for her business ventures. But, in order to get started, she decides to take a job as an assistant for experience and to learn the business side, so she is successful when she does decide to go off on her own.
On her first assignment at a cocktail party/art exhibit, where she attends with her boss, she meets billionaire, ex tennis player, Damien Stark. However, this isn't the first time these two have met. In Nikki's old life, where her mother controlled her every move, she used to compete in beauty pageants. At one of these pageants, Damien was a judge and Nikki briefly met him. Upon seeing Damien again, Nikki felt the spark she felt the first time she saw him. But Nikki isn't sure he remembers her.
When he asks her stay behind instead of leaving with her boss, with the excuse that he needs help picking out a painting, Nikki suddenly finds herself making out with the billionaire. Thinking that there is something between them, as they walk out to his limo, he puts her in his car, and sends her on her way...by herself. Confused, and a little embarrassed by her actions, Nikki finally decides that she is glad their encounter doesn't go any further, since she may have to work with him in the future.
But that is definitely not the last encounter between Nikki and Damien. With a lot of persistence and relentless pursuing from Damien, Nikki finds herself in a whirlwind, erotic romance with the very sexy billionaire.
Nikki is a very intelligent and driven woman. After losing her sister, and escaping her mother's control, she's determined to make it on her own. So when Damien proposes a very extravagant offer to Nikki, she couldn't say no. But this offer means she will have to divulge a secret to Damien that she is ashamed of. A secret that could either make or break this relationship before it even begins.
Damien is a controlling, ruthless businessman who always gets what he wants. And what he wants is Nikki. However, he has met his match in Nikki. She doesn't just roll over for the billionaire. But Damien is not easily scared away. He knows how to wine and dine this woman that he strongly desires to possess. And the little surprises and notes were very convincing. Damien had me at the massage! Oh, but Damien also has his own secrets. Secrets that have Nikki doubting her relationship with Damien. As she uncovers the truth, will she trust Damien and stay with him?
I'm going to go straight to the elephant in the room. Yes, this story has been done before. I haven't read 50 Shades, but I have read the first two books in the Crossfire series. And yes, this book is a tad similar to the Crossfire series....the controlling, stalking, dominate, billionaire with secrets who is determined to have the submissive woman with secrets of her own. But the more I think about it, the more I see the differences. Damien is possessive but he isn't over-the-top possessive. Nikki definitely has some issues that stem from her childhood, but she's no wilting flower so she doesn't shy away from telling Damien exactly what she wants or doesn't want. There are secrets but most of them are divulged in the story. Not all of them, but most of them. Damien didn't exactly come clean with all his secrets. But if he told them all, then there wouldn't be any mystery left to try and figure out who Damien Stark is.
The story is passionate and sensual. Damien and Nikki definitely have intense chemistry. The sex scenes were on fire. The BDSM isn't extreme but the bondage scenes were hot and steamy, which makes me think the author has only given us just a taste of what's to come with this couple.
I really did like this story, even though the story did lull in some places. The ending isn't exactly a cliffhanger but it does leave some questions unanswered for the next book. Will I continue with this series? Yes, I will. Release Me has some great qualities about it that are different enough to give the rest of the story and the characters a chance.
Rating: B-
Heat: HOT
-- A
Romantic Book Affairs Review
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This book theme is my guilty pleasure. I'll never get tired of the bazillionaire who gets everything he wants so easily except the one girl. And the girl wants him but she fights it. It just never gets boring for me and this was no exception.
Nikki is a little different...she's no virgin and she has some problems of her own. She's also quite smart and wanting to start her own company.
Damien knows what he wants and he goes after it. I've been spoiled by getting books with dual POV's and I would have loved his. But it does keep things a little mysterious.
The one thing I really loved about this book was the examples of him being a bazillionaire. He doesn't have to wait for things...he wants to send her flowers? Boom...they're there when she gets home. She tells him she would love a digital camera as they're on the way to lunch and guess what show's up at lunch? It's...magical!! I mean heck, if you're gonna write about a bazillionaire, ya gotta have all the perks!
Nikki is quite persistent that she doesn't want anything to do with Damien even though there is this amazing sexual chemistry (of course...I mean that's a given). Damien decides that he will offer her ONE MILLION DOLLARS to pose for a nude portrait because naturally, he won't have to go through all the bother of taking her clothes off...he can just look at her with heated desire and she can feel the lust in the air. How can a girl refuse? Hence steam factor x10!
And there is definitely some drama...the bazillionaire's gotta have a few business people he's screwed over as well as the requisite dozen or so girl friends. There's the loyal best friends of Nikki...one for the relationship and one against. And what I really loved about this one is the mother from hell...it makes for all kinds of great story lines!
So, is it as great as Fifty Shades or Crossfire series? No, there's a few issues...some things seem a bit forced as if the author is trying too hard. Not to mention she's thrown everything in there but the kitchen sink. And while there's a lot of sex and a bit of crudeness, there's not a lot of romance. Heck, he didn't even give her a nickname! What's up with that? ;)
The story actually doesn't end on a cliffhanger which I found a bit shocking since there are several more books in the series. That doesn't mean that things are left unfinished, it just means you won't be an emotional wreck until you read the next one!
Favorite quotes:
♥ "You're nice, then you're ice."
♥ "Did you know you glow?"
♥ “It’s hard to be so close to something so precious and know you don’t yet possess it.”
♥ "I grin flirtatiously. “That was nice,” I say. “Can we do it again?”
“Nice?” he repeats. I can tell he’s trying to sound offended, but the crinkling around his eyes gives away his mirth. “That wasn’t just nice. That was rocket ship to the moon. That was fucking amazing. Guinness World Records quality. Hell, that fuck was a thousand times better than those shoes you were wearing the night we met.”
♥ "There's something to be said for traditional."
♥ “Never, baby. Between us, the sun is never going down.”
♥ “Everyone breaks a little sometimes. That doesn’t make you weak. It makes you wounded. And I will always be there to help you heal.”
