| Title | : | Say My Name (Stark International Trilogy, #1) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 1101889306 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9781101889305 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Audiobook |
| Number of Pages | : | 14 |
| Publication | : | First published April 7, 2015 |
| Awards | : | RITA Award by Romance Writers of America Erotic Romance (2016) |
New York Times bestselling author J. Kenner kicks off a smoking hot, emotionally compelling new trilogy that returns to the world of her beloved Stark novels: Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me. Say My Name features Jackson Steele, a strong-willed man who goes after what he wants, and Sylvia Brooks, a disciplined woman who’s hard to get—and exactly who Jackson needs.
I never let anyone get too close—but he’s the only man who’s ever made me feel alive.
Meeting Jackson Steele was a shock to my senses. Confident and commanding, he could take charge of any room . . . or any woman. And Jackson wanted me. The mere sight of him took my breath away, and his touch made me break all my rules.
Our bond was immediate, our passion untamed. I wanted to surrender completely to his kiss, but I couldn’t risk his knowing the truth about my past. Yet Jackson carried secrets too, and in our desire we found our escape, pushing our boundaries as far as they could go.
Learning to trust is never easy. In my mind, I knew I should run. But in my heart, I never felt a fire this strong—and it could either save me or scorch me forever.
Say My Name is intended for mature audiences.
Say My Name (Stark International Trilogy, #1) Reviews
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Title: Say My Name
Series: Stark International #1
Author: J. Kenner
Release date: April 7, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Cliffhanger: Yes
HEA
Having been a fan of J. Kenner's Stark trilogy, I was intrigued to see what she's imagined for this new couple and what their erotic exploration would entail. I'm a big fan of this author's way with words-her eloquence and crisply flowing pace always keep me completely fixed on her characters. I had almost forgotten the sophistication and intelligence in her layered plots. Not only was I hooked for the duration of the book, but I'm strongly committed to a full three book series-and that's saying a lot these days. Unlike other erotic books out there overstuffed with sex, J Kenner has managed to create erotica fueled with a strongly plotted story base. There's no danger of a thin plot stretched to the breaking point for the sole purpose of increasing sales. I'm more than willing to see what's in store next.
Jackson is a rising star in the field of architecture. His confidence, sculpted good looks, and success are magnetic to the opposite sex. He mingles with the hollywood crowd and the elite in business, and it seems just about everyone wants a piece of him. But no one is more desperate than Sylvia Brooks. She is equal parts eager and panic-stricken at the thought of coming face to face with this man again. They shared a brief, powerfully consuming weekend that shook her so deeply, she ran and regretted it ever since. She never wanted to give the promise of him up, but her past was eating away at her, and the dominance in Jackson's sexuality made her believe her fear of the loss of control would eventually ruin them.
Now he's her only chance to save the project that could be the turning point for her career. If he refuses to step in, the entire plan will have to be deserted. But can she set her pride and fear aside and face his anger and wrath?
Time and distance haven't lessened the desire any more than hurt and anger have. I want his touch. I want his hands. I want everything he has to offer.
Give me a story that has even a morsel of revenge in it, and I'm pretty well ready to devour the book at first glance. Our hero sees the opportunity to enact some retribution and he isn't the type to hesitate over something he wants. He's still holding onto a lot of resentment over Sylvia's flight from him years ago, and now it's time to not only take what he wants from her body, but make sure she's so addicted to him that her heart is left raw and bleeding when he turns the tables on her.
"What is it you want? I gasp, as spirals of pleasure seem to burst around me.
"You," he says. "At my mercy."
Seem cold hearted? Yes, I'd have to agree with that. Jackson isn't the most lovable person at first. Sylvia on the other hand appeared to be haunted, and floundering in her struggle to deal with the appalling situation she was forced into as a young girl. She never recovered and never had any guidance in dealing with all the pain that built up ever since. The only thing that keeps her grounded is the stability of feeling in control of all aspects of her life-most especially her sexuality. Jackson leaves her feeling anything but grounded.
"My rules, remember? And right now, I own you," he says as his fingers dance over my skin, highlighted by the sensual tones of his voice. "You're mine to pleasure. To take. To fuck. And right now I want you to experience nothing but the feeling of me touching you," he adds as my body clenches with need in response to this new seduction.
So when she's given the choice to save the project but surrender herself, it tears her apart. She has a feeling that even if it would be a relief to seek the release he offers, he may just end up destroying her in the end.
The path that these two embark on is charged with angst and bristling with intensity and heat. He pushes her boundaries to the limit and back again. I wasn't sure what to think about everything based on his unclear intentions at first, I'll admit. But it doesn't take too long for him to discover what's behind all of her fears. At this point, I completely fell into the the story and luxuriated in the frenzy.
The erotic elements were completely on point-as always, this author masterfully builds the intensity and power through some richly descriptive scenes. I appreciated that it wasn't just straight BDSM, I'm not exactly clamoring to this type of erotica anymore. It's more about trust and finding freedom in submission.
I'm looking forward to continuing on with the next book. Though there isn't really a difficult cliffy at the end, you're left with a revelation that makes you reevaluate everything and leaves more questions to be answered. If you liked J. Kenner's Stark series, you'll most likely enjoy these and you'll even get to visit those characters again, as they are secondary characters and connected to these MCs.
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"A reminder that circumstances and the world can be controlled, no matter how futile and lost some moments might feel.”
Say My Name is the first book in the Stark International Trilogy. It is a crossover series from The Stark Trilogy. In Say My Name, J. Kenner wows readers again with a mix of intrigue, passion, romance, and suspense.
Sylvia is Damien Stark's assistant and is working hard to make a name for herself in Real Estate. She finally has the opportunity to take her career to the next level when all of a sudden the architect on her first big project abandons ship. In order to save the project, she must enlist help from Jackson Steele a well known architect. The only problem is that Sylvia and Jackson have a history.
"I’d ended it because I had to. Because the only way I could survive was to destroy everything. Because the only way I could breathe was to push him away."-Sylvia
Sylvia must find a way to convince Jackson to accept the project or she risks loosing everything. Jackson has moved on from Sylvia and at first he isn't willing to give her the time of day.
“No,” he says, holding up a finger to silence me. “Do you remember before? Before you tore it all apart. Do you remember the way it felt when I touched you?”-Jackson
Of course, Jackson doesn't realize that Sylvia didn't want to leave Jackson but she had to leave him.
"I remember every laugh, every touch, every breath. I remember every word of every conversation, the taste of every meal. But I also remember when the panic set in. When I started to drown, and no matter how hard I fought to keep afloat I kept getting pulled down into the swirling waters of cold fear and harsh memories."-Sylvia
Sylvia manages to convince Jackson to consider taking the project. He concedes but under one condition.
"You want me on the project, I want you in my bed."-Jackson
Sylvia is terrified to let Jackson in but her drive to succeed outweighs her fears.
“Look at me, Sylvia. Because I’m not going to say this again. I told you once that I’m a man who goes after what he wants, and I want you in my bed. I want to feel you naked and hot beneath me. I want to hear you cry out when you come, and I want to know that I am the man who took you there.”-Jackson
Jackson is a passionate hero. He manages to exude professionalism all while using his power to seduce women into doing whatever he wants in his bed. As soon as he sets his sights on getting Sylvia back, he will not stop. The only question is what is he going to do with her once he haves her again?
Sylvia is such a likable heroine. She is kin to the girl next door but with a fast forward professional attitude and a great deal of sass. She is fiercely loyal to her friends and passionate about following Jackson's blooming career.
Both Jackson and Sylvia have dark secrets. Will they be able to overcome the mistakes of their past in order to have a future together?
Overall, I would say I thoroughly enjoyed Say My Name. J. Kenner's writing style is fluid and chalked full of steamy sex scenes. She has the unique capability of clearly defining the setting of each moment or scene. I felt like I was with Sylvia and Jackson every step of the way. The tempo of the story is steady and not rushed. I felt that there was enough foreshadowing throughout the story which made it quite easy for me to figure out many of the secrets early on. However, the tension remained throughout. I couldn't wait to find out how the secrets would unfold. In true Kenner style, the book is full of angst and a flair of BDSM. Although I enjoy a little of both, the draw for me in this read was the central characters themselves. I truly felt the connection between these two. I would have liked to have been witness to more of their initial relationship however, I didn't have any difficulty jumping ahead to the present point in time. I highly recommend this read to anyone who enjoys a modern romance with a lot of steam. Fans of the Stark Trilogy should definitely read this. It was an extra delight to see Damien and Nikki happy and in love. Now on to the next book. Jackson is calling!
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3.5 Sensuality and Sin. Power and seduction. stars
"Make me feel more. Make me feel everything.”
Sylvia Brooks has to turn to the one man she vowed to never see again, after leaving him with a unforgivable promise, she hopes and prays that her body, mind and heart has forgotten the effects of Jackson Steele.
Jackson Steele, can either shut the door in her face and never look back or finally take what he knew from the very start as his. Sylvia is exactly the woman he wants and needs under him and he will have her again. Time and distance haven’t lessened the desire any more than hurt and anger have. But lust rides them hard, and soon they must come face-to-face with the truths of their past and hope it doesn't leave them burned...“I want to take you to the edge and back, I want to watch you lose control, I want to make you come, And, princess...I want to make you scream.”
Say My Name is an enticing erotic read of a second chance at love and life. An unconventional deal wrapped up in secrets. Trust doesn't come easy, especially when demons are constantly haunting your mind. But when fear and isolation proves to not help, sometimes you need a dark knight to slay your demons on kiss at a time.
While Say My Name focuses on their past and their new beginning, there is more to there is more to their story as the plot continues on. Now that they have found their second chance, is it strong enough to withstand the incoming storm.
Recommended to my friends who love a good second chance romance, mix dominant males, and twists and turns...
Copy kindly provided by Random House Publishing Group, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
***Quotes above are taken from the version of the book I received and may differ from published edition.
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When I saw that J Kenner was writing a spin-off from her Stark Trilogy, I did an inner happy dance! I loved all things Damien Stark with his lovely Nikki. What could be better? Well, how about Jackson Steele and Damien's personal assistant, Sylvia Brooks?
Damien has acquired an island he'd like to develop into a high-end family/couples resort. Sylvia is first in line for the chance to project manage the development. But when the architect suddenly pulls out of the deal, she's left scrambling to find a replacement before the investors catch wind of the fallout. Who better than Jackson Steele? Unfortunately, five years ago, they had a passionate few day love-affair ending with her walking away...with her making Jackson PROMISE to not come back for her. Jackson kept that promise but both have harbored long term pain and feelings (good and bad) since the departure.
When Jackson refuses to speak or even meet Sylvia for a meeting to discuss the potential contract for the island development, Sylvia ups her game. She will get his okay on the deal even if it means agreeing to go back with him...something she knows is NOT in her best interest emotionally. But, physically, he's an itch she craves to scratch...
"Look at me Sylvia. Because I'm not going to say this again. I told you once that I'm a man who goes after what he wants, and I want you in my bed. I want to feel you naked and hot beneath me. I want to hear you cry out when you come, and it want to know that I am the man who took you there."
Jackson and Sylvia struggle with trust. Jackson doesn't know why she forced him to walk away after there three days of sexual bliss. What starts out as a scheme for him to lure her back into his clutches for him give her a taste of her own medicine, quickly becomes fuzzy. Revenge turns to lust...passion...and empathy for a woman clearly fighting her own demons. How did he not see this before?
Sylvia wears the scars, her armour on her skin. With every emotional scar comes a new tattoo. Each has meaning, each she draws strength from to fight the nightmares...the demon that stalks her sleep. When Jackson witnesses her nightmares, he's determined to find out why she runs. What's she running from? He wants to be her savior...her protector. Will she let him in?
I'm thankful Sylvia chose to open up to Jackson early on and not play mind games with him. Her scars run deep and she chose to trust him versus making him play the guessing game. Only confiding in her best friend, Jackson knows just how to extricate the fears that lurk within her psyche. She wants control. She needs it. But she also needs trust and to let him take the reigns for her...giving her faith in him and in their relationship.
Say My Name packed a pretty hot sexual punch. We're gifted with a dominate hero and a scarred but fairly tough heroine. The book ends in a fairly happy for now place but there's definitely questions out there that need to be answered. Damien Stark and Jackson Steele have history. Damien isn't convinced Jackson doesn't have something corrupt up his sleeve where this island development is concerned. Is his fear warranted? Does Jackson have ulterior motives? Will Sylvia fight the good fight and stay with Jackson when all her inner voices tell her to flee? I guess we'll find out...
Advanced readers copy received by Random House Bantam Dell Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED :))
Say my name has officially brought me back together with J. Kenner! And I'm very happy about it
Say my name was kind of a last book chance for me. Her Stark Trilogy was one of the first books I've read in Belgium and I absolutely adore Damien and Nikki together. After that she published her Most Wanted series that I ended not liking at all.
With Say my name, I was a little anxious but I couldn't let it go. I had to see for myself if J.Kenner was still able to write something that keep me on edge, keep me wanting for more, keep me interested enough... and damn yes she did and brilliantly if I can add ^^
If you have followed my different update, you already know how much I fell in love with Jackson Steele and I can assure you, you won't stay indifferent. This guy is without a doubt book boyfriend material. If you read about Damien Stark, Jackson Steele will make you melt!
If you haven't read the Stark Trilogy, IMO I strongly recommend to read it first. You won't be lost but you will connect more with the universe in which Sylvia and Jackson evolved. And you will also have a wider view on the different interactions happening in the book.
"Write your own history, Sylvia. And when you do, make yourself the hero"
One day, Sylvia Brooks comes to see his boss, Damien Stark about a potential interesting buy of an island in the prospect to build a huge resort.
Damien put her in charge and from this moment, Sylvia see this as her baby. When an architect drops the project all of a sudden, Sylvie has one name to replace him: Jackson Steele.
But see, there's a slightly small problem, she made Jackson promise that not matter what happen they won't have any contact.
Yes Sylvia and Jackson have an history together. For a brief moment, 5 years ago, they were together and in a moment of panic, Sylvia asked him to let her go and never look back.
Now that she needs him more than anything, she has to find a way to approach him and to convince him to join the project.
She also knows that she is taking a huge risk. The reasons why she left are still there and if he accepts her proposition she will have to be with him and spend a lot of time with him. To be honest, she might not be ready for it.
From there, J.Kenner did a fantastic job to put all the different characters in place in the story. She gives us the necessary elements to get us interested and enough for us, readers, to already have questions in our mind.
Sylvia seems like a woman in control but when she only but think of Jackson all seems to slip away. We also quickly understand that something horrible occurred in her past and that it still affects her life tremendously. All her actions and thought are guided by those events. What happened with Jackson is also a result of it.
I had some trouble to connect with her. I didn't understand why she seems so attracted to Jackson and why she left without second though. But once again, J.Kenner leads us slowly to understand her better.
Before going any further, it's time for you to meet Jackson Steele
Are you hot? Do these make you a little turned on? Because it's certainly does it for me! And it's only a small quote where there are a lot of them in the book.
Mr Steele is a mysterious guy who never forgot the one girl that made his heart beat more than any other. When he sees Sylvia again, he is lead by revenge but at the same time he wants her bad.
Jackson was a contradiction itself. He was angry at her but h was also terribly attracted by her.
He wanted to hurt her a little but he also watches her like his own shadow.
Jackson is mostly hurt; he is also certainly lost and jealous. He spoke directly to my heart because he is everything I love from my favorite male character; he is a dirty talker, alpha male, demanding and he is also very protective, caring and a true gentlemen.
Once Sylvia let her guard down a little, he is more a gentlemen than ever
"Did I want your submission? Did I want you naked and willing beneath me? Hell yes. I still do. But that's not the whole of it. I want to make you feel. To make you laugh. I want to see that fire that burns in you. I want you to look at me the way you did five years ago. And Sylvia? I want you to stay.
In some ways, Say my name reminded me of Release me. They were similarities such as the relation between Sylvia and her best friend but truthfully that didn't bother me se much. I still enjoyed a lot of this new story J.Kenner offered us.
Both MC are endearing. Each comes from a place where they both hurt. With Say my name we barely scratch the surface of who is Jackson Steele
"I'm not the man you think I am"
BR with Alice ♥
Alice's review
~ARC provided by publisher for an honest review~
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4 stars!
She did it again! J. Kenner just delivered another man to swoon over!
I really really liked the Stark trilogy, I loved Damien and Nikki's story. When I learned that J. Kenner was writing another series related to the stark trilogy, I knew I had to read it.
I was a bit worried that I wouldn't enjoy it as It's been a while since I read a series in this genre, but let me just say that I wasn't disappointed AT ALL!
Sylvia works for Damien Stark and one of their most promising project is the creation of a resort on the Santa Cortez Island. She's the project manager for the Resort and she feels responsible about this project as she was the one who brought it to Damien Stark's attention. But when the designed architect pulls out of it, they're in trouble. She has two days to find another architect to help them, or they will lose all the investors and the project will be shut down. But she has worked hard for it, this project is her baby and she is going to fight for it.
Jackson Steele is one of the most famous and qualified architects in the world . He is definitely who she needs at the moment, but they have an history and he's the last person she'd like to ask for help, but at the same time she can't wait to meet him again..
This story started off in a really good way. The beginning was really hot, and there wasn't a moment of this story that I didn't enjoy!
Five years before, Jackson and Sylvia spent two amazing days together, but she was afraid of what she felt for him and begged him to leave her alone and he did as she requested.
Sylvia is both a strong and fragile woman, she has had a very tortuous past and she tries so hard not to rely on anyone, she just wants to count on herself.
She doesn't want to surrender to Jackson, she knows that this time she won't be able to walk away. That's why she tries hard to fight his feelings for him..
Jackson is a man who likes control and this scares Sylvia. She has to be the one in charge in a relationship.
We got to know different sides of Jackson: he's sweet, hot, possessive, jealous, caring, broody, commanding.
He wants to find out why Sylvia left him 5 years ago, why she gave up on the chemistry they had, their strong connection, the possibility of a great relationship between them.
You could feel from the very first moment the chemistry between the two of them.
I'm glad that Sylvia opened up to Jackson, letting him know more about her and the reasons why she behaved like that . We got to know her more and understand her behavior.
A lot happened and many secrets were revealed in this one, that's why I can't wait for the next 2 installments!
If you haven't read the Stark trilogy and you plan on doing it, I wouldn't recommend to start with this series, as there are many spoilers.
If you don't plan on reading it, you can start with this series and you won't feel lost, but I'd recommend to give the Stark trilogy a try!
BR with Stéphanie!
Stéphanie's review!!
Arc kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. -
**Series Crossover**
Because I hate it when I start a crossover series and can’t for the life of me remember who the character is based on the name alone.... Sylvia Brooks is Damien Stark’s assistant that we meet in the prior series.
Sylvia wanted to move up from her role as Damien’s assistant and had the perfect chance. The Island resort. Her project. Her baby. Something she wanted at all costs. But she soon learns the price of getting what she wants when a man from her past is thrust back into her life and ends up being exactly what she needs the most, in more than just one way.
Jackson Steele has made a name for himself as an architect, his buildings are famous, and his ability is celebrated by the masses and is exactly what Stark needs in order to create the perfect resort. But Jackson isn’t willing to say yes to Damien or his assistant, Sylvia just yet. He wants more than just the project. He wants what was taken from him five years ago and he’s not willing to walk away this time.
As J. Kenner slowly reveals the story in Say My Name, a few things are clear. Jackson Steele is a man who likes his control and one that doesn’t give up easily. As for Sylvia, her past has dictated her future and until she truly learns to trust, control is something that she just can’t give up. But when she is face to face with the one man that she let in, she can’t deny that it isn’t just about the project when it comes to Jackson... it’s about the desire and the attraction. A man that has her willing to push herself.
But with the need for control also comes the need to trust and there are plenty of things that make Jackson appear to be less than trust worthy. The way the author sprinkles in the little clues along the way has you wondering the who-what-whys of the whole story. You can’t help yourself but doubt everyone’s intentions but still hold on to faith that our hero isn’t about to let us down.
I really enjoyed this story and love that although it had some similarities to the Stark Trilogy, Jackson and Sylvia really stood on their own. With these characters getting their own trilogy, I was worried about that dreaded “cliffy” end but felt like we were left at a place that won’t devastate the readers, which I greatly appreciated.
I am a fan of the writing style of Ms. Kenner. I loved the prior books in both her romance series and this one is shaping up to be no different. I look forward to seeing where she takes these two characters and just how things will play out as more truths are revealed. I also loved seeing a little glimpse of Damian and Nikki again, which is always a good thing.
For those fans who like The Crossfire and FSOG series, J. Kenner is an author you need to read!
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3 - "You think you're the one in control? Think again..." Stars.
There is no doubt that Julie Kenner can write damaged, brooding, controlling alpha males with a certain something that makes the women they desire fall hook, hand-cuff and blind-fold for them, women that usually come with their own set of monogrammed baggage themselves, and for the most part these are themes and tropes that I enjoy, but having read all of the books in the Stark and the Most Wanted series, I have to say that nothing really stood out in Say My Name as new or different from any of the previous books or characters that the author has given us.
This isn't a negative review, but I do expect more from this author if I am being completely honest. Everything about this book, just called de-ja-vu to me, I don't know maybe me reading tastes have changed since the Stark days, but Jackson Steele didn't really have anything about him that made him memorable or distinctive to me, he actually says to Sylvia in the book, that 'Stark leaves a long shadow,' and unfortunately he definitely seemed to be firmly in it.
"I want you to remember everything you gave up."
If you are a first time reader of this authors books I have no doubt you will be sucked into the slightly twisted and dark relationship that Jackson and Sylvia have, who could guess that two days spent together in Atlanta, five years previously would have such a deep and profound effect on them both separately and as a couple going forward.
Bought back together by desperation on Sylvia's part, and kept together by Jackson's demands things are wobbly at best, the threads start to unravel again as the book progresses, when secrets and lies start to be exposed on both sides. The connection between the two of them for some of the book was tenuous for me, and Jackson cane across as a bit of a hardhearted tool at points, but there are also parts where he shows Sylvia great understanding and passion as well, but they never really felt 'comfortable' together for a lot of the time. There is a lot going on in this though, motivations for a lot of things haven't been fully shared as yet, which I am sure will keep readers entertained in the following books.
I want desperately to be in his arms again, and I am absolutely terrified of the collision.
This is the first book in the authors new Stark International Trilogy and as such this couple have a lot more to come. This isn't the end of their story, but luckily it doesn't finish on a massive cliffy, some secrets have been revealed, as you would expect there are a lot more to come and not all the players have dealt their hands yet...
"I'm the man who'll fight your demons."
Although not blown away I would still recommend this book, it was still enjoyable and I wholly expect to be in the minority with my feelings. There is no doubt that the author has a special way of writing her leads, as well as putting a plot together with lots of things going on in it, while giving her readers extremely well developed characters and back stories. It was good too see some more of Damien and Nikki as well, seeing that Sylvia works for him (and I feel there is potentially another connection in the works as well) I expect that they will both feature in the rest of the series.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, it was me pleasure to provide the above honest review. -
3.5-4 stars
Say My Name is another hit from the talented J. Kenner. She manages to reel readers in with her wonderful writing and keep them captured with her fulfilling plots and steamy encounters.
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J. KENNER - SAY MY NAME
• Book #1 in the new Stark International Trilogy
• Release Date: 7 April 2015
• Book #2
On My Knees will be out 23 June 2015
• Book #3
Under My Skin will be out 25 August 2015
You haven't read any of the Stark Books yet?? o.O
It's not really neccessary - (but why wouldn't you want to read all those amaaaaazing books? ☺) - but you should read
Play My Game before starting with this book - because we're being introduced to Jackson in Damien & Nikki's Valentine's Novella ☺
"I want him. I want everything that we have shared and will share. I want the world, and with Jackson I do not think that is too much to ask."
We already met Damien Stark's personal assistant Sylvia in the previous books and we also met Jackson for a second in the last Stark Novella: PLAY MY GAME.... Jackson is the rising star of the architecural world, and Damien wanted him for his Bahamian couples-island-resort-thing. But Jackson declined - he didn't want to work in Damien's shadow. (and there might also be a couple of other tiny little reasons for not wanting to be anywhere near Damien☺ but we won't find out about those until much later ☺)
Recently, Sylvia got very lucky finding an article about an island that might be for sale - an island not far from LA - Santa Cortez - in the California Channel Islands.
But finding it and getting Damien on board and buying it and getting all the permits is only the beginning - their famous architect dropped out and now they need a new one, or Sylvia's first solo-project will die.
Enter: Jackson Steele.
Mega-Hot Architectural-Super-Star.
...and he's no stranger to our Sylvia.
Five years ago they've been happy together for a short, but very intense time...but Sylvia screwed up and destroyed everything...her fears of whatever happened to her in her youth made her leave him....
And now he's back in LA for work and she has to swallow all her pride and attraction and literally beg him to work with her....
And Jackson might even be interested in the job - but he wants more than that - more than Sylvia might be able to give.....
Plus - there are still way too many secrets between them...
What will happen to Sylvia & Jackson?
Will there be a HEA?
Will everybody die at the end?
Or will there be a horrible Cliffhanger?
I'M NOT TELLING YOU THAT OF COURSE... ☺
l don't want to spoil anything ☺
OK - no real Cliffy - but there's still a lot to overcome - lots of secrets and whatnots ☺
___________________________
JACKSON STEELE!!!!!!
I loooved Jackson!
And Sylvia too of course - only I don't really love her name - a Sylvia for me, is a 65-year-old, white-haired librarian ☺
I loved the story.
And I loooved that we got to see Damien & Nikki again ☺
There was sooo much sexiness in that book - even before the real sex even started - Jackson just talking sexy was sooo effing hot ☺
We also get to hear a bit about what happened five years ago - how they met in Atlanta...
I loved the first line that Jackson ever said to Sylvia:
"Let me guess. You've seen one panda, you've seen them all."
They could've been so perfect for each other...but Sylvia's past stopped her from giving them a real chance for a perfect future :/ So now the reader hopes that she can finally get over whatever happened and give the poor guy another chance... or else I'll take him!!!!☺
SAY MY NAME was a really sexy and moving romance. You will sooo want your own Jackson Steele after reading it ☺
Now please hurry with book #2 - I NEEEEED to know what will happen next with Jackson & Sylvia!!!!
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Putting this one on hold. I could not connect. I felt like I was forcing myself to continue. With so many other books out there I want to read, I had to stop. Too much business detail in the beginning.
Not sure why Jackson Steele, the hero, wants to be with the heroine so much. She has something tragic that happened to her, but it is given in bits and pieces and after awhile I did not care. Her BFF, Cass, also annoyed me. I hate pushy BFFs. Cass is asking the heroine if the last time she had sex was Atlanta and heroine does not answer. Note to Cass: Random sex with strangers does not mean that the person is over another person. I just hate BFFs that feel that random sex with strangers heals all wounds.
The story did not flow for me. The info is given in bits and pieces to make me want to anticipate the answer, but if I don't feel this connection that the characters are "fighting"...I don't care in the end. -
ARC received for review
Amazing spin-off from Damien and Nikki. I haven't read the Stark Trilogy, but still want to go back and read them.
Jackson was seriously hot and amazing. He didn't mince words and wow, what a secret. Sylvia's past is horrible, but she needs to find a better way of dealing with it than tattoos. I'm pretty sure I've figured out who the information leaker is, but I guess I will have to wait and see if I'm right. There is a HEA, but not enough of one...I guess that's why there's two more books -
I can not wait for you to meet Jackson Steele! I thought that, while I love the other men Julie has given us, there is NO ONE who can compete with Damien Stark. Jackson Steele proved me wrong!
Sylvia, Jackson and the gang grabbed me and held on tight. This is a great story with strong characters. The pain is palpable. The romance, scortching hot. Go One Click this gem today!!!!
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*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review* -
This was freaking awesome! Intense, erotic, full of drama and passion. I think this is J. Kenner's best work to date.
I was immediately pulled in, everything was super intriguing. The story is laid out well with great development. So many things are learned but at just the right time so there is this fantastic "what's going to happen next" build that makes it a page turner. There are lots of different layers and things going on, it was great.
Sylvia Brooks and Jackson Steele are fantastic characters and I loved learning about how they met and the history they shared. So much passion between the two! They each have so many secrets and it was just captivating watching them all unfold and come together. Sylvia is a great character, strong but has her demons. I really like her determination. Jackson, this man is commanding and powerful. He’s pretty much sex on a stick! He has secrets as well and I loved everything I did learn but I still have a lot of questions.
Hot doesn't cover the sexy times in this book. Erotic, passionate, add in some kink, and the pull between these two is off the charts. They have this intense chemistry that pretty much makes their sexy times go through the roof!
Loved all the other characters that were introduced. It was great getting to see Nikki and Damien again, I really enjoyed seeing a new side of Damien. Love how their characters have been integrated into this so even though I know them from their series, they seem fresh.
This book was full of twists and turns and drama. There was one thing I did not see coming, which was awesome! I loved the twist. I still have a TON of questions. I must know all the things! I do have some ideas and theories and I cannot wait to find out of I'm on target. This book does have closure but it's definitely cliffhanger-ish. I need book two, On My Knees ASAP. I cannot wait for more.
This was absolutely excellent! I cannot say enough good things. J. Kenner knocked it out of the park with this one. 5-off-the-charts-hot-stars!
Complimentary copy received for honest review. -
Originally posted on
The Book Nympho
I had such an uneven reading experience with the Stark Trilogy and was reluctant to try this spinoff. In the end, curiosity got the better of me and I waded in, this time using the audio format.
First, the main characters had minor roles in the Stark Trilogy. Sylvia Brooks is Damien's assistant and is now heading up a real estate development project she pitched, the Santa Cortez Resort. The project is in jeopardy because their high profile architect has quit to explore his Zen side in Tibet. Sylvia knows that that Jackson Steele, their first choice, is the best person to take over but he's already turned them done once and...she's got a not-so-great history with the man.
Despite the over abundance of angst and sex, this is a pretty good story. Sylvia has a rotten past and Jackson is just one surprise after another. Their new relationship is hot but plagued with issues, ergo the angst. One nice surprise was the depth given to some of the secondary characters who become integral to both Sylvia and Jackson. And, yes, Damien and Nikki appear as well so for those needing more of them, you've got them.
Abby Craden's narration is a strong performance, despite her tendency to overdramatize at times (but, I think it's the writing). She really is Sylvia and I'm always going to hear her voice whenever I think of the character. And, she does a pretty good job with the male characters, too.
The trilogy has one story arc with lots of subplots to keep things interesting. While it doesn't end with a cliffhanger, there are quite a few open issues. Just enough to hook me into jumping right into the next book. *sigh* I really hadn't planned on this....
(I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review) -
oh, bugger...
so, this is s story of "second chance" rekindling of Damien Stark's amazing assistant Sylvia Brooks and a hotshot architect Jackson Steele, with whom she had a romance 5 years ago when she got freaked by the loss of inner control and told him to leave. Which he did.
And now, 5 years later, she still loves him, of course BUT know she also needs him for the project she's a head of...and well, she needs to bite her pride, shove her inner fear and make an offer Jackson can't refuse.
And of course, he makes a deal with her."What is it you want?"
"You. I want you to remember everything you gave up.
and well, it started as a revenge plan but it went wrong...cause of course there are still vivid feels in both of them and now they have re-surficed.I want you, Sylvia. As intensely as I wanted you in Atlanta. And the moment I saw you in the theater, I knew that I was willing to make any deal I had to in order to get you close.
BUT
there are secrets, there's a horrid nightmare that has happen to Sylvia when she was 14 that made her a control freak, especially on an emotional levelI can't be the girl who surrenders. Who gives in. I have to hold on tight to control, because it is the only protection I have.
well, Jackson won't give up either and one of them will fall sooner than later...
ah, I loved Damien and Nikki, but I only liked segments of Sylvia and Jackson's story...what can i say, it all kinda felt like a fadeing copy of the original Star Trilogy. *shrugs*
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I LOVED this book! Damien has, and always will be my #1 BBF, but HELLO Jackson Steele!!!! I could not put this book down and didn't want it to end. I love that we got to see a different side to Damien, and LOVED meeting Jackson. SO happy that there are two more books to this series. I NEED more Jackson! Can't wait to see where Julie takes these characters.
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Say My Name (Stark International Trilogy, #1) by J Kenner
4.5 stars!!
“But there is the man and there is the architect. I – I can’t be with the man. But I desperately need the architect.”
For fans of J Kenner and especially her Stark Trilogy then you are all going to love this new series. Although this does have the “Stark” brand it is not essential that you have read the Stark Trilogy, this series can be read as a standalone although I would highly recommend reading them anyways because Damien is seriously HOT and you will also have a better understanding of the secondary characters in this book. Damien and Nikki do make an appearance, so it is a totally WIN WIN situation, you have super yummy Damien and now tall, dark, brooding and enigmatic Jackson Steele.
Roll back five years and Jackson Steele shares two days with Sylvia Brooks, the connection they have is irrefutable, it is one of the most intense two days of both their lives, we are talking soul mate connection, a forever connection, but it seems the thoughts of forever are one sided...Sylvia begs Jackson to walk away and asks him to never look back, even though it kills him to do so.
“Oh, baby. They can’t hurt me. Don’t you know that you’re the only one who’s ever managed to tear me to shreds.”
In the present Sylvia Brooks now works for Damien Stark on the property investment side and Sylvia is trying to prove that she can handle more than the mundane day to day stuff that she is currently doing. She gets her big break with a project for which she is project manager but it all goes south as the architect pulls out at the last minute. With the investment backers getting the jitters and on the verge of calling time on the whole project it is up to Sylvia to get another architect on board and it has to be someone high profile and renowned to allay the worries of the board. There is only one contender and luckily his latest project has hit the wall and he is available...
Jackson Steele is the current “it” architect, people are clamouring for his services and he is always in the spotlight, his work breaks boundaries and his style is in a world of its own. He has made no secret of his disinterest to ever work with Damien Stark, citing “work ethics” as his irreconcilable differences so Sylvia knows that she is going to have to beg to get him on board and hope that their past may be able to persuade him to have the Stark contract in their future. But with a past such as theirs can it be overcome? Jackson seems the type to hold a grudge and for the woman that he has not stopped thinking about for the past five years, this grudge is huge.
“I’m the man who’ll fight your demons...”
I have to say I loved Jackson Steele, he is dominant, he is alpha, he is kinky, he talks dirty, he is the epitome of perfect, he knows what he wants and he knows how to get it and will even resort to emotional black mail. What I loved about his story is that he wasn’t afraid to open up and say just how hurt he was when Sylvia begged him to walk away, it had a huge impact on him, he couldn’t understand it, he never knew why all he knew was that it was the hardest thing he had ever done and now he wanted answers.
“I want you ready for me. Wild for me. Not because I demand it, but because you want it. Not because I’m taking, but because you’re giving.”
Sylvia always came across as the silent proficient type as Damien’s PA but we soon learn that she has another side...as they say the quiet ones are always the worst. I have to admit if it wasn’t for their past I would have felt uncomfortable with the way that Sylvia goes about getting Jackson on board, but deep down I knew that there was an ulterior motive. She missed Jackson as much as he missed her, their chemistry was electric and it hadn’t diminished in their time apart. Sometimes miscommunication or lack of any communication is one of my pet peeves and while I could understand Sylvia for some I was begging her to open up at times.
“...and what is history but a memory...”
They say all is fair in love and war, now the battle has begun and I cannot wait to see where this going. Some of the revelations in this book took me by surprise and with an intriguing plot anyways I can honestly say I am all in. I cannot wait for book 2 On My Knees which is set for publication in June.
www.theromancecover.com -
4.5 "Empowering Via Trust" Stars for the Story and Narration! Lovers of hot, controlling, powerful Doms rejoice, there is a new spin-off to the Stark Trilogy, and Jackson Steele is shaping up to be as alphalicious as Damien Stark. In addition, to the hot, erotic action, there is also an element of suspense to this read, culminating in a groundbreaking twist that ensures that we will be getting plenty more of Damien too in future books in this series.
That said, this series does stand on its own. So if you haven't yet had the pleasure of reading The Stark Trilogy (or haven't finished it), you can still enjoy Say My Name. However, please note that in order to get the Jackson's and Sylvia's full story, you will need to commit to reading the entire Stark International Trilogy. Two more future books are planned. The next one, On My Knees, is currently planned to be a June release.
For those of you who have read or listened to the Stark Trilogy, Sylvia Brooks is Damien Stark's assistant, and his wife's friend. Due to an unfortunate past, Sylvia has lived a very disciplined life. Preferring to control the world in her own ways in order to stave off the demons of old. Unfortunately, this has rendered Sylvia generally incapable of having a true relationship or even falling for a man . . . all except for the one man that she walked away from five years ago when her feelings for him, after a very intense affair, threatened to cause her to lose all of her hard earned control.
Today, Sylvia's main focus is on career advancement. In that regard, she has found the perfect project for Damien (an island that they can build into a family friendly resort). Damien, in turn, is so happy with this find that he gives Sylvia the career opportunity of a lifetime by allowing her to manage the project. When the world famous architect that they have recruited falls through though, the project's future is jeopardized. There is only one other architect, whose signing on to the project, could potentially convince the investors not to pull out. Unfortunately for Sylvia, it also happens to be the one man that Sylvia walked away from all those many years ago, Jackson Steele.
When Jackson conditions his aid on an ultimatum, Sylvia is forced to confront her demons. The one thing that is clear though is that their chemistry is explosive, but can a HEA possibly be in the cards when both Sylvia and Jackson are concealing dangerous secrets?
I was fortunate enough to get to experience this story in both e-book and audiobook format. I loved both reading and listening to this title as the fabulously sexy narration by Abby Craden greatly helped me form the total image of Jackson and Sylvia. Once I had that image in mind, I could easily hear her voice enacting the passion, suspense and anguish of this well written erotic romance in the passages that I read.
My favorite part of Ms. Craden's narration is Jackson. Her husky voice easily makes him sound like a real male voice, a feat that sometimes is not completely accomplished by female narrators. Moreover, she accurately infuses his depiction with an authoritative, alpha, sexy nature which is true to his personality as written by J. Kenner.
Ms. Craden also performs an equally convincing Sylvia. Varying her pitch for Sylvia's dialogue to a slightly higher pitch, so that she is easily distinguishable from Jackson. I also enjoyed the breathless quality that Ms. Craden lends Sylvia in the numerous bedroom scenes. Perhaps my only observation is that as part of this effect, at times, the dialogue was delivered in a somewhat slow fashion. While this had the desired effect of heightening the feel of the erotic scenes, it also prolonged the listen somewhat.
All in all, I highly enjoyed Say My Name. Both the writing and the narration kept me engaged and wanting more. Moreover, I definitely got the feeling that there are more secrets to come and that Sylvia's and Jackson's relationship still has plenty of room to continue to evolve; thereby making this a series that I definitely want to follow to its conclusion.
Source: Review copy provided in exchange for an honest review. -
J. Kenner does a wonderful job of weaving a tale of mystery and hot crazy suspense around the cat and mouse chase of Mr. Jackson Steele and Sylvia Brooks. Sylvia chases her demons in order to learn to trust herself and her love for Jackson. This is a great story. It will have you on the edge of your seat, gripping your e-reader, laughing and crying. I loved it!
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DNF 62%
I JUST DON'T CARE!!! -
Sylvia Brooks has worked for Damien Stark as his executive assistant for years. Now, she has her shot at making her dreams come true; she’s been named the project manager for The Resort at Cortez, a Stark Vacation Property. She’s bound and determined to make sure the project is finished on time and on budget, but the project has hit a bit of a speedbump. The prime architect has abruptly quit and Sylvia is under the gun to find a replacement.
Enter Jackson Steele. Jackson is every bit the masculine, dominant man. He goes after what or who he wants tenaciously—and he’s set his sights on Sylvia. His participation in the Cortez project hinges on Sylvia. But can Sylvia risk her dreams by becoming entangled in Jackson’s web? Is she willing to give up a little bit of her controlled life to trust Jackson with her secrets? And will Jackson trust Sylvia with his own?
Phew, Say My Name is a scorcher… Sylvia and Jackson are so freaking hot together, my kindle was smoking. Add in the intrigue of their back history along with the Cortez project, and you have a book you can’t put down. This is a great start to a Stark trilogy spinoff. Can’t wait to read what happens next!
Note: This is book one in the Stark International trilogy and ends in cliffhanger. ~ Missy, 4.5 stars -
Audio Version - 2.75
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Hey everybody! Have you heard the news? I've got an all-new sexy, emotional trilogy starting in September!
Get ready to meet Devlin Saint in My Fallen Saint.
My Fallen Saint
Did you miss out on the first Goodreads Giveaway? Never fear! For the next few days, there's another giveaway going on! Just click the link above to go read about the book and enter!
Deeply emotional and wildly sexy, with all the drama and damaged characters that will keep you turning pages!
Be sure to add it to your Goodreads lists!!
I'm so excited by the early reviews:
“J. Kenner knows how to deliver a tortured alpha that everyone will fall for hard. Saint is exactly the sinner I want in my bed.” Laurelin Paige, NYT bestselling author
"I went into this story thinking that J. Kenner could not create a better place than Stark World. … But boy was I wrong. From the very first interaction with Devlin the reader becomes instantly aware of the character's power and grace. With a plot that kept on changing and an awesome connection between Ellie and Devlin, J. Kenner has once again proved her writing skills with masterful story telling."--The Overflowing Bookcase
"I'm an avid J. Kenner fan ever since Damien Stark but now, Devlin Saint is my new religion." - Goodreads reviewer
***Bloggers, you can request a review copy from NetGalley here:
http://netgal.ly/yypYIf
And just for fun, here’s a sexy snippet from the book!
He bends closer, lowering his head so that his lips are by my ear. “I know you, Ellie. I know exactly what it means.”
I swallow, grateful he can’t see my eyes. “You don’t know me at all. And considering the circumstances, I think it’s safe to say I really don’t know you.”
He twists us around, the quick motion making me gasp as my back lands hard against the side of a car.
“Don’t I? You really think I don’t know you? I know you want the rush. The danger. But sweetheart, you don’t have a clue about danger. That guy you picked up? There’s no risk there. None at all. But me?” His words are like a knife edge, and he’s slicing me to the bone. “Me, I could destroy you.”
“Too late for that.” I practically spit the words. “You broke me a long time ago.”
He pulls back, and for a moment I think I’ve won. He’s going to let me walk away, smug in my Pyrrhic victory. But then our eyes meet, and in the next moment, his mouth crushes mine as he releases his hold on my wrists.
I have the idle thought that I should slap him again, just for show. But I don’t. Instead, I bury my fingers in his hair, pulling it free from the loose tie at the base of his neck so that it falls over my hands. I pull him closer as our mouths war with each other, tongues sparring and teeth clashing as if all either of us wants is to be consumed by the fire that now rages inside me.
This was what I’d needed tonight. And though some voice in my head tells me to run—to escape this surreal nightmare—I stay rooted to the spot. Craving heat. A connection. Anything to burn away that raw, hungry need inside me.
With my other hand I cup his ass even as he roughly shoves his hand into my jeans, still conveniently unzipped. I’m incredibly wet, and I break our kiss to suck in air as he thrusts three fingers inside me, and I grind against his hand, so lost in sensation that my only cogent thought is more.
“Dangerous enough for you?” His words are low and sensual but edged with fire. “You don’t even know what danger is, Ellie. Forget getting caught. You play with me, and you really will get burned. And this skin,” he adds as his other hand caresses the swell of my breast, “is far too beautiful to scorch.”
I whimper, trying to process his words. Telling myself that I should stop this. That this is a very bad decision, and I shouldn’t want him.
Except I do want this, and my brain is far too lust-hazed to make any distinction between the man and the sensations he’s rousing in my body.
And so I do the only thing I can do—I surrender.
***Find retailers and add it to your lists here:
My Fallen Saint
I hope you enjoy!
XXOO
JK -
*ARC given for honest review*
Wow. Just wow! That's my first thought after finishing this book. I loved Damien and Nikki and didn't think I could love anyone as much as them. Well, I was definitely WRONG! I loooooved Jackson and Sylvia. I enjoyed how Damien and Nikki overlapped in this book as well. They haven't been forgotten but they aren't the forefront of this book either. I enjoyed the combustible chemistry between Jackson and Sylvia and the sweetness too. The way J Kenner writes pulls you into their world and you feel like a part of it. There is so much happening in this book and the ending isn't a cliffhanger but it definitely has you yearning for more!! *round of applause* GREAT book and I cannot wait for On My Knees! -
DNF at page 86 of 254...the underlying issue is too much for me. Abuse is just too painful for me and if eluded to, I can get through the book but in this case the abuse and abuser live in her soul and breathe with her every breath...just cannot go there...sorry Ms Kenner...great writing and deep characters...likely an additional factor in my DNF.
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SAY MY NAME is the first book in the stark international trilogy- a spin-off from the Stark series. Damien Stark's assistant Sylvia Brooks is the heroine of the story, and Jackson Steele is the hero. A very hot Alpha male :). J Kenner has pulled me in again. Her writing style is amazing and makes you want to keep reading, even when it's very late at night. I so can't wait for book 2, and see what is in store for Jackson and Sylvia :)
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SAY MY NAME is the kind of contemporary romance that I love to find. Well developed main characters along with a clear and organized storyline without lots of dangling secondary stories that only serve to clutter what should be the main focus of the book. While reading SAY MY NAME I definitely encountered moments that were high on the seriously erotic scale and that is in no way a bad thing! Kenner is great at bringing a believable story with well written and descriptive sexiness that did not feel contrived to simply push the envelope. The erotic scenes actually fit very well into the building of the story. Sylvia is determined to push her career forward while burying her secrets and pain as deeply as possilbe. When she is offered the opportunity to oversee a project that can change her career she is determined to see that it is a success. However a huge hurdle is placed in the way of getting her first big project for Stark Industries off of the ground and Sylvia has to make a very uncomfortable decision. Sylvia needs to reach into her past and ask for help from the one person that will turn her world upside down but could also save her project; Jackson Steele.
Jackson is a well respected an renowned architect who also happens to be a part of her past that Sylvia had hoped to never revisit. Jackson is the man that she asked to turn away from her five years ago with the hopes of saving herself what she felt would only lead to further emotional harm. Now that she needs Jackson to help save her project she knows that convincing him won't be easy and will come at a high emotional price. What Jackson demands of Sylvia in exchange for helping is steep but it's a price that she is reluctantly willing to pay.
SAY MY NAME has plenty of drama, secrets, sexiness, and intensity that kept the story moving. There is a cliffhanger at the end but it felt like a good place to end without making the reader quiver with anxiety because of the ending. SAY MY NAME is a well written contemporary romance and a great beginning to a series that I will definitely continue reading.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/ -
"Oh, baby. They can't hurt me. Don't you know that you're the only one who's ever managed to tear me to shreds?"
Oh boy, this one got to me. My emotions were all over the place.
I was so beyond excited to get my email from Netgalley saying Random House graciously provided me with a copy of Say My Name, that I almost flew straight out of the office to go home and read it when there were still four hours left of work!
Seriously, I think I almost sprouted wings.
After falling in love with the Release Me trilogy, I've been itching for more from J. Kenner. Say My Name did NOT disappoint. As in, the only reason I ever put the book down was because I was crying to hard to read through my tears.
The chemistry between these two was sensational. A great balance of hot and sweet.
Sylvia and Jackson both have their demons, and there's still plenty to come. While I'm not a fan of her name, Sylvia was an interesting heroine to read and cheer for. She had her weak moments, but they ended up endearing her to me.
I would definitely recommend this book to fellow romance lovers, and I'm already itching for the next book despite this one not being published yet. ...That's a sad thought. I might cry again. -
This is the first book about Jackson and Sylvia.
I want him. I want everything that we have shared and will share. I want the world, and with Jackson I do not think that is too much to ask.
It’s been five years since Sylvia and Jackson met in Atlanta. After spending two unforgettable days together she asked him to walk away and never look back. No explanation, just a plea to forget about her.
I’d ended it because I had to. Because the only way I could survive was to destroy everything. Because the only way I could breathe was to push him away.
Five years later things are going to get interesting. Slyvia wants him, but doesn't really want anything to happen. Jackson still cares and wants her. What was supposed to be a simple job recruitment, is about to get a little hot and dirty.
“And what is history but a memory, and usually a false one at that? What’s that saying? That history is written by the victor? Write your own history, Sylvia. And when you do, make yourself the hero.”
As usual another fantastic read from one of my favorite authors and her series is awesome. Can't wait to read next one.
