| Title | : | Dirty English (English, #1) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | 272 |
| Publication | : | First published October 10, 2015 |
A girl with rules.
One night of unbridled passion.
There are three things you need to know about Elizabeth Bennett: she’s smart as a whip, always in control, and lives by a set of carefully crafted rules. She’s learned the hard way that people you love the most always hurt you in the end.
But then she meets Declan Blay, the new neighbor at her apartment complex.
A tattooed British street fighter, he’s the campus bad boy she’s supposed to avoid, but when he saves her from a frat party gone bad, all her rules about sex and love fly out the window.
She gives him one night of unbridled passion, but he longs for more.
With only a cardboard-thin wall separating their bedrooms, he dreams of possessing the vulnerable girl next door forever.
One night. Two damaged hearts. The passion of a lifetime.
*A modern love story inspired by Pride and Prejudice*
Dirty English (English, #1) Reviews
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3 Stars
*spoilers*
I read three very mediocre books yesterday while being a lazy fatass and not even pretending to put on real clothes and leave the house, and this was one of them.
It wasn't a BAD book, per se; in fact, there was AMPLE chemistry between our two main leads, Elizabeth and Delcan, which is more important to me than a completely solid plot half the time.
That said, as you can see, I still only gave this three stars. I think my main problem here was that I just didn't love Elizabeth and the lack of communication she displayed with...well, with pretty much everyone.
She acted so tough and strong in so many facets, but when it came time to open her mouth and just SAY SOMETHING sometimes, she couldn't seem to get it done and it annoyed me to no end.
She didn't tell her mother and Karl to pound sand when they kept going at their blackmail scheme...
She didn't tell Declan who Colby was after he witnesses him harassing her...
And worst, she didn't just be a good friend to Blake and BE HONEST with him and tell him she didn't return his feelings when he came to her exposing his soul....
Instead, she kind of strung him along, which I thought was a really shitty way to act.
On top of that, there was just too much going on here. The whole college scene, them being neighbors, the ex-girlfriend drama, the drama with Declan's dad, the drama with Elizabeth's mom, Declan's gym, and the whole underground fighting scene - which is apparently a MUST in colleges everywhere now *eye roll* and this book just had its fingers in too many pies. -
4.5***Unicorn ~ Stars
Genre:NA Romance
Type:Standalone
POV:First Person – Dual
“Love is a knife that cuts out your heart by piece; feeding it to the boy you love.”Elizabeth
Elizabeth Bennett had her heart broken and body shattered by the one she gave her love to, the boy she trusted with all her heart. She was young an innocent; she came from a low income home and without money and resources when her high school boyfriend; the rich kid son the Major of their City took advantage of her while he had drugged her after their prom night. She bow to never fall again she closed the key to her heart and became a cold bitch who would just take one night stands to prove he had no power over her body. Being from a trailer home she had no name and anyone to believe her story so she moved on at least she thought she did. Elizabeth earned a full scholarship to college because she was very intelligent and had dreams and moved to her new life.
Declan Blay; a British, Intense and beautiful twenty-one year old with his silver-gray eyes and stunning physic he was basically sex on a stick. Every woman wanted him, however his last relationship his heart was hurt he found his girlfriend with another guy and he wasn’t ready to give his heart again anytime soon. He focuses on college, his goals he purchased a gym and he was fighting underground ring to earn money to remodel his new gym and open it up for business. Declan has a twin brother Dax that I loved as well. Dax was the funny, flirty kind of guy it kind of reminded me of Logan from Fallen Crest I wish he gets his book haha. Declan settles into his new apartment and finds his next door beautiful smoking hot neighbor moving in the same day as him.
Later on Declan officially meets Elizabeth at a frat party; he never thought he would see her there his new neighbor. Elizabeth has no clue he is the boy next door but they instantly have a magnetic attraction. I loved their intensity of their first meet. She knows he is bad news, he knows she is not for him. He knows somehow she had been hurt and she didn’t do relationships and he wanted if he ever dated again he wanted a relationship not a one night stand but he knew she was broken and wouldn’t open up. Therefore; he tried really hard to stay away from her and denied her request yes, she openly told him to have the one night stand she is used to but there was something about him that scared her not intimated like he will hurt her but scared that she will defiantly fall for this beautiful man for good and she didn’t want to go there either.
They couldn’t hide from each other for too long she was hot he was hot and the chemistry was just undeniable to everyone around them. Declan and Elizabeth ended up hooking up and boy was it butterflies and fireworks?! Yes it was but it was much more, it was EPIC. I was fanning over it; he was so strong and so amazing. They had struggles to overcome because of his ex and her fear of falling in love and there was Colby who comes back to try to make her life difficult as if he hadn’t hurt her already on prom night. Dirty English is a beautiful story about giving love a second chance, about taking a chance at love again when you think you can’t trust because your heart and body had literally been broken and shattered once. It was packed with action, passion, romance and I was hooked from the beginning that I read it in one setting. To all my YA romance lovers you much read this book it was an enjoyable read. This author has never disappointed me. 
“Loving Declan was like the rain storms I loved to dance in. Crazy and unpredictable, sometimes turbulent, sometimes gentle…I wanted him anyway.” Elizabeth
"ARC Kindly provided via author blog tour, in exchange for an honest review."
Book Order Series: STANDALONE
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ALERT: DIRTY ENGLISH just hit #8 on the WALL STREET JOURNAL!
Steamy Stand alone New Adult Romance
*a modern love story inspired by Pride and Prejudice*
**********************************************************
Exclusive Excerpt
“You think you want me?” he said tightly. “You can’t handle me, Elizabeth. I can see it in your eyes. You’re scared of something, maybe not me, but something.”
My eyes went to his black eye.
He let out a harsh laugh. “Ah, that’s what you’re afraid of. You want the real truth? You told me tonight you didn’t like violence, but I’m an arsehole who uses his fists. That’s who I am.”
I didn’t believe that. I sensed a good guy in him. “What do you mean?”
His gaze was intense, dark and low, his face struggling as he fought to find the right words. “I’m in a fight club for money. I show up at warehouses and fight other blokes. Sometimes I beat them so bad they need medical attention. A few times, I’ve been beat to unconsciousness. I’m everything you need to stay away from.”
I inhaled, anger and lust and excitement all riding me. Anger that he was pushing me away, lust for the alpha male in him, and God help me, the fighting thing repelled me and excited me at the same time. “I don’t want to stay away from you. I want you to f*ck me and stop making excuses for why you can’t.”
My words seemed to snap his taut restraint.
He pulled me back in his arms, his lips fusing with mine unerringly. His tongue plundered me in a sensual way my body had craved for years. I wrapped my arms around his neck, my anger morphing into all-out desire as he turned us and pressed me against the wall.
Yes, yes, this is what I craved.
A passion to remind me that I was real, not just some sad excuse of a girl who chose to exist on scraps of love.
Before I knew it, he’d shoved my robe off, his hands sculpting my shoulders, massaging them as he ravaged my mouth. I reveled in the warmth of his hand on my neck as his mouth skated down, kissing the hollows of my throat, sucking on my collarbone.
“Like this?” he asked, his voice dark and gravelly. “You want me to take you up against this wall?”
“Yes,” I moaned. Gone. Past caring as long as he kept his hands on me.
Out of control, my brain whispered, but I beat back the dark warnings as his warm hand found my breast and squeezed, his fingers rolling my nipple between his thumb and forefinger.
I gasped in pleasure and arched my back to get closer to his body, ignoring the fear that pricked at the surface.
The rules girl in my head stamped her foot and yelled at me.
But even if I wanted to stop right now, I couldn’t. My tongue tangled wildly with his, my hands pulled at his hair, spurring him on, his hand palming my breast and then tugging. Sharp sensations of need went straight to my core.
“Is this what you want? Something quick where we just take what we want and forget each other the next day?”
No. Not that. Not like the way he said it, like it was something dirty.
“Yes, like that,” I whispered against his shoulder, my mouth on his skin, tasting him as my teeth bit down. -
"He'd done way more than just please. A giant stick of dynamite has just gone off inside me."
Ilsa Madden-Mills has always been on my list of authors that I adore and love. When I first read her debut book, Very Bad Things, I was instantly addicted to all her books. There was no ifs, ands or buts about it, Ilsa has reminded me as to why I enjoy and love reading the New Adult genre. Personally, I think she has the magic touch when it comes to this genre because I have always found myself spellbinded and bewitched with all her stories. There is never a dull moment in her books because all her stories have always been so raw, captivating, emotionally gripping, sexy, and breathtakingly beautiful. And in her newest release, Dirty English, Ilsa truly has outdone herself with this book and I personally think this is my favorite book that she has written so far.
"Loving Declan was like the rain storms I loved to dance in. Crazy and unpredictable, sometimes turbulent, sometimes gentile."
The Brits are coming!!!!!! And I might just say I am loving this British Invasion of Declan and Dax Blay!!!!! Ilsa Madden-Mills if you are reading this review, can I just say how I much I freaking love you for writing this fab book. Dirty English was more than your typical romance of hot tattoo British bad boy meeting a young American lady and falling in love. This book was so much more than an ordinary college romance. Dirty English spoke volumes of love, forgiveness, second chances, redemption, hope, and new beginnings.
"I'm the guy who's going to take you up against this wall. I'm going to bury my cock in you and own your body and you're going to love it. But I'm not going to hurt you. Ever."
I have always been a Jane Austen fan and Pride and Prejudice has always been one of my favorite literary classics. As a romantic at heart, I have always wanted my version of Mr. Darcy. And in Dirty English, Ilsa has put a modern twist to a beloved literary classic. Well if I thought Mr. Darcy was a man to swoon for, then ladies Ilsa will have your knickers in a twist when she introduces us to Declan Blay. What's not to love about Declan Blay...he's hot, single, smart, sensitive, loves literary classics, and he's BRITISH!!!!!!! Oh yeah, he also has a hot twin brother named Dax. That's right TWO BRITISH MEN!!!!! So let the swooning begin!!!! And oh yeah, Declan's leading lady is named Elizabeth Bennett. Jane Austen gave her readers Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy and now Ilsa Madden-Mills has given us Elizabeth Bennett and Declan Blay.
"She was my queen and I wanted to be her king. I wanted to sit at the throne of her body and love her forever, but it wasn't just sex, although that had been over the fucking moon. No, with us it was about two broken people who looked deep into the eyes of the other person and just-meshed. Call it fate or destiny or just plain old karma, but whatever it was, the moment I watched her dance in the rain, my heart had known, only it had taken my head a while to catch up."
Right off the opening pages, I was emotionally hooked with Dirty English. Ilsa consumed me with such strong emotions for Elizabeth Bennett for what had happened to her in her senior year of high school. My heart ached and broke for her. Elizabeth learned the hard way that sometimes the people whom you thought you loved could have the power to destroy and break you. So fast forward to two years later, Elizabeth learned that the only way that she could control her life is to not let anyone have the power to destroy her emotionally, physically, and sexually. Elizabeth doesn't have many friends but she has two best friends that she allowed into her heart. Shelly and Blake are all aware of what had happened to Elizabeth and hopes that their friend can finally move on. And the first step in living life, they forced Elizabeth to attend her first college frat party where she meets not one hot Brit but two.
"And no matter what came our way, I was in this for real. If he wanted to use his fists, I'd stand in his corner and kiss him before he put his gloves on."
When Declan Blay first laid his eyes on Elizabeth Bennett, it was game over for him. He felt the instant connection to her. Her brokenness spoke to him and there was nothing he wanted to do but help heal and piece back the shattered pieces of her heart. Declan Blay did not see a broken woman but a woman who held his heart hostage. He saw a beautiful woman inside and out, who just needed to fight through her emotional demons. Declan and Elizabeth's relationship stole my heart. It gripped me emotionally on how Declan was able to heal Elizabeth's heart. I love a book that can make you FEEL. And let me just say, Dirty English was brimming with such passion, intensity, raw emotions, tangible bonds, and a palpable love story that will leave you yearning and swooning for more Declan Blay. Can a scarred fighter heal a broken woman? There is only one way to find out... go read Dirty English and I promise you that you will not regret it.
The writing and story-telling in Dirty English was well executed. Elizabeth's brokenness gripped my heart. I wanted to hug her and cheer her on as she learned to move on with her life. I have always been drawn to books with strong heroines and Ilsa Madden-Mills did an amazing job showcasing and highlighting a strong heroine, who has gone through hell and back. Elizabeth Bennett reminded readers that there is always hope, second chances, and new beginnings. Declan Blay may have been the fighter but Elizabeth was the true fighter in every sense of the word. She survived her demons. They say love hides behind every corner, and for Elizabeth Bennett love was literally next door. Dirty English was a great reminder that one should not be looking for someone who will solve all one's problems...but looking for someone who won't let you face them alone. So if you are looking for a book that will have you chanting THE BRITS ARE COMING!!!!! then I highly recommend you to read Dirty English.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages:
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Ilsa Madden-Mills -
Are you a NA romance fan?
Me:
Do you start drooling if the main male character is a fighter?
Me:
Do your panties get wet if he has a British accent? :P
Me:
If all your answers to these questions are YES then this is definitely the book you.
I was over the moon when I got an arc and I really loved this book even if there where some things I didn't enjoy.
Sometimes I had the feeling that the roles where reversed. She wanted just a quick fuck and he wanted something more...when usually it's the other way around....and that I loved :D
It was refreshing to mix things around and read something new but also I felt at times he turned into a little pansy and she was bitchy...and that annoyed me a bit...just a bit...
Sooooo...do I recommend this novel?
Curious?
If you're answer is also YES then you can get your Dirty English copy
HERE.
Enjoy!
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review* -
This very well may be my favorite Ilsa Madden- Mills book. In fact, this is
probablyone of my top five reads of 2015. I am completely and utterly obsessed with this book. Dirty English exceeded my expectations. It was everything I needed. It was funny. It was definitely sexy. But mostly, it hit me in the feels. HARD. I honestly can't think of too many books where you see honest and active character growth as well as stunning relationship growth.
FIVE "Dancing in the Rain" STARS!
I was told this book was Pride and Prejudice inspired as the heroine's name is, in fact, Elizabeth Bennett. It was done beautifully. The clues are there if you look closely, but Madden-Mills does a stunning job of taking old characters we love and making it all new again. Don't let the idea of some Jane Austen fangirling deter you. It's there if you're looking for the similarities, but it isn't overpowering as it often can be. It's fresh and different.
Declan is one of the best heroes that I have read about in a long time. He's real. He's smart. He's sweet. He's strong. He's the Mr. Darcy we've all fallen in love with by the end of Austen's tale. Except, it doesn't take me until the end to fall in love with Declan. I'm his from chapter two. With lines like:"Your scars are beautiful. It means you survived. It means you're here with me." ... "It's my favorite part of you."
#BRBCRYINGALLTHETEARS
Elizabeth is our tortured and damaged heroine. My heart broke for her a thousand times over. She is truly a survivor and heroine, by all counts. She's my saucy lady, and I love it."When it comes to you, Declan. I'm never afraid. Why don't you come inside and show me?"
Are you fanning yourself? Because I am!
Honestly, do yourself a favor. Pick up Dirty English. It's truly a love story that I won't be forgetting any time soon.
*ARC Received in Exchange for HONEST Review* -
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4,5 STARS
"Your scars are beautiful. It means you survived. It means you're here with me." ... "It's my favorite part of you."
From the moment I started reading this book, I was drown to the story!I loved it so much,everything is so well written!I loved the main characters and the story is captivating. It's sexy,intense and funny!This is my first book from Ilsa, I loved the writing and the message that comes out of the story!
Something bad has happened in the past to Elizabeth and now she has rules in her life.She only has one night stands with no further communication, until she meet the sexy British fighter, Deeclan!He has dreams, and they aren't the dreams his father has for him.He also cares for his twin brother and looks after him. As a fighter his dream is to open his own gym.He has just come out a bad relationship and he doesn't want anything until he meets Elizabeth..Both develop feelings but they afraid to show them and they are scared..Can these two find love to each other?
I loved Declan and his British accent!He is a hot fighter but apart from this he is smart,sweet and protective!He cares a lot for Elizabeth and he is here whenever she needs him!I couldn't stop myself from falling in love with him immediately!Elizabeth is one of my favorite heroines!I didn't know what I have done if I was her!She is strong, and she is truly a survivor!What she goes through isn't easy!The chemistry is off the charts!They are passionate,intense and there is tension between them!
“ He knew every nerve ending that would send me over the edge, and I strained closer, wanting more of him, my hands now gripping his broad shoulders just to keep standing.”
If you are looking for a hot British with a beautiful heart who will make you fall in love,then you should definitely read Dirty English!!
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
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"He was the one with the potential to break me into a million pieces."-Elizabeth
Dirty English is a FIGHTING ROMANCE lovers dream! With a tattooed fighting bad boy and a broken heroine, this is one read you won't want to miss!
Elizabeth Bennett is an intelligent hard working college student striving to overcome her upbringing. Straight out of the trailer park, she has managed to secure a scholarship at a prestigious university. Other than her two best friends, she avoids relationships like the plague. Facing the demons of her past, she has distracted herself with meaningless sex. Driven by order and meticulous planning, Elizabeth is just going through the motions of life. As she unpacks her life in her new apartment, she discovers that her new neighbor is tall, dark, and "super sexy"!
Declan Blay is a British transplant and works hard at the university and as a fighter in an underground fighting ring. His twin brother is his best friend and although they are opposite, their friendship is endearing and their support for one another is unwavering. Declan settles into his new apartment and notices his sexy and sweet neighbor Elizabeth.
"There was a connection between us, and I'm not stupid, I know it wasn't love at first sight-maybe lust-but he was definitely the hottest guy I'd been this close to in two years."-Elizabeth
When Elizabeth ventures out to a Fraternity party, she meets Declan. Although the attraction is immediate, Declan doesn't view Elizabeth as an "easy lay"! Elizabeth does everything in her power to get her "bad boy" neighbor between the sheets. Declan is weighed down by his ex girlfriend and fears that he will only hurt Elizabeth. Elizabeth is battling the connection she feels with Declan when her past slams into her like a tsunami. Can Declan and Elizabeth find a way to overcome their pasts and find a future together?
"I don't want to stay away from you. I want you to fuck me and stop making excuses for why you can't."-Declan
Dirty English is a pleasant blend of action, passion, romance, and just enough "college drama" to keep the read engaging the entire time! Told in dual POV, both Declan and Elizabeth were intriguing characters with a great deal of depth. The plot is very similar to other NA Fighter Reads and yet, if that is a combination that you enjoy than you will be pleased with this read! Beware, you may have to enlist a great deal of patience as these two waver between "to be together" or "not to be together". However in the end, it was well worth the wait!
Overall, I recommend Dirty English to anyone who enjoys a great NA Fighter Romance! I thoroughly enjoyed this read and will certainly be on the lookout from more from this author!
~ ARC graciously provided via publisher for BLOG TOUR!~
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★★★ 3.5 Stars ★★★
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This was my first book from author Ilsa Madden-Mills and have to say I thought it was pretty good. Being English, I was instantly drawn to this book, the cover is gorgeous and to be honest, I wanted to run my critical eye over it to see if she could pull off the English slang - a lot of non-British authors try really hard and quite often I am left disappointed. Well, Declan was no Hugh Grant (thank the Lord!), he was a normal every day guy from London. Or as I would say, a proper geezer and all round decent bloke.
Declan Blay is one of two, he is a twin, yes that's right - there are two of these sexy mangods!"They were double trouble, sex on two sticks."
Having grown up in England with their mum in a small house, their life was ripped apart when they were ten, when she died of cancer. They were taken to the US to live with their dad, an ambassador. He is about to graduate college, but instead of being a lawyer like his dad wants him to be, he is determined to open his own gym and become a UFC fighter. Currently he is engaging in underground fights, all is not what it seems, because in his spare time he likes to read the classics, and is a huge fan of Pride and Prejudice. Obviously a romantic at heart.
Elizabeth Bennett isn't looking for her Mr. Darcy, she was left broken after her high school prom night went severely down the drain, and only hooks up with men that she knows don't have the power to hurt her. She is most definitely not about to jump in with both feet with the notorious ladies man who has decided to woo her.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read, a slight bit of drama that always seems to be present in these college reads and an annoying ex that I wanted to slap. I didn't quite connect with Elizabeth as much as I'd hoped, she had good reason to want to push Declan away, but sometimes I thought she was cutting off her nose to spite her face a bit too much. Declan though, I defy you to fall in love with him. He was swoon-worthy, and had a way with words to rival any classic novel."I wanted her in my skin
I wanted her in my soul
And I wanted in hers"
I was left pondering if a twenty one year old that had lived in the US for the last 11 years would still be talking like a Brit, but still, the slang was spot on and he really did come across as a fellow Londoner to me. Kudos to Isla Madden-Mills. If you are looking for an easy read, nothing too taxing then go for it.
Highly recommend for NA lovers. Oh and come on love, there has to be a book for twin brother Dax. He was an enigma I'd like to unravel.
Dirty English is a standalone NA romance, told in dual POV.
ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
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"Love?
Love cuts out your heart piece by piece, feeding it to the boy you love."
First of all, this is a college romance, which I adore so no surprise I loved this one as well. It definitely started strong, with such an epilogue, you can't help but expect well paced story. And it was. Written in such manner that I couldn't put it down and turn pages fast enough to see what will happen next.
We have Elizabeth Bennett, who went through something tragic in the past and doesn't believe in love anymore, she only cares for hook ups. And we have Declan, hot hunk of a man, bulky underground fighter who wants something more than just a one night stand. Go figure! But wait, wait, Declan is not only hot... nope, he also likes poetry and literature, is ambitious, protective and sweet and has English accent...*le sigh*. What is more, he isn't the only one, because Declan has a twin brother Dax, that I really would like to hear more about in the future.
But back to the point, the moment MCs meet, sparks fly but since they want different things form relationships, they start this push and pull. And let me tell you, they were adorably annoying with their back and forth. The anticipation and sexual chemistry between them was strong and once they finally nailed it... damn it was hot!"Loving Declan was like the rain storms I loved to dance in. Crazy and unpredictable, sometimes turbulent, sometimes gentle. I didn’t know if I was going to be struck by lightning, but one thing was for sure, I wanted him anyway. Fighting and all. Somehow we’d make it all work.."
Overall, it was entertaining, fast reading, with funny characters, some drama with crazy exes and steamy sex as a bonus.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
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Title: Dirty English
Series: Standalone (with the possibility for a continuing series with supporting characters)
Author: Ilsa Madden-Mills
Release date: October 12, 2015
Cliffhanger: No
HEA
I had two reasons for wanting to read this book.
1: That masterpiece of a cover.
2: This book is being called a "modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice", or "inspired by Pride and Prejudice". Now, I don't know if anyone realizes...but I'm kind of a fan of P&P. HUGE fan.
Exhibit A (My profile pic):
Soooo...Let's just say when I saw the connection, I rushed like a mad woman to find myself an arc. As this was my first book by this author and I wasn't sure what to expect, but with the promise of the synopsis I was willing to risk disappointment. As you can see by my rating, it was a success by anyone's standards. What I was really missing here was it's comparison to P&P. Yes, it played a part in the book, but I wouldn't go so far as to say that the stories were comparable enough to call it a "retelling". I was really hoping for more corresponding in the actual structure of the two stories, but that's okay.
The prologue starts you off as an introduction to Elizabeth's past and gives you an understanding why she's distrustful and wary of getting close to people. I think this was necessary to be empathetic with her behavior and why she's hesitant to get close to anyone. Right away, I was drawn into the story and wanted to know more.
A horrific betrayal occurred to her in high school by a boy she trusted. It forever changed her outlook on love, and who she was as a person. Her method of self-preservation was avoiding relationships and casual sex to feel like she was in control. But now that she' s a junior, her roommate pushes her to go to a party with her (this is so very NA cliche). Her very first college party brings her face-to-face with two very exceptional male specimens. Hot. British. Twins. Need I say more? I loved this aspect of the story, the unique characters gave a fresh twist to a rather common NA plot.
Declan was one of the high points of the book for me. He was everything you'd want in a NA hero.
He was an underground fighter, so he had a bit of a rebel side to him. But he was also the kind of guy who could appreciate Jane Austen and wasn't afraid to admit to it. That sensitive side to him made him even more appealing.
I found myself leaning over further, arching my neck to see more of him. Something about a big dude that read Pride and Prejudice made me breathless.
After a very clumsy attempt to get in Declan's pants misfired, they begin a tentative friendship with poorly concealed attraction of both of their parts. They both have their reasons for holding back. He sees her fragility that she tries to hide, and she's worried he may be able to get past her barriers. I enjoyed their getting to know one another phase. It had it's sweet moments and a nice amount of underlying emotion between the two. When her past comes back to cause trouble, Declan steps up and teaches her confidence through some self-defense techniques. And before long, their attraction can't be refused anymore.
I wanted sex on a mat in an un-air-conditioned gym with a hot as hell British guy pounding into me, no matter the consequences. Fuck my silly sex rules. I wanted him.
Both Declan and Elizabeth had parents who caused them heartache and pain. I really felt for Declan after learning about the loss of his mother and his father's cruelty. And Elizabeth's mother is just plain evil. She had no rights to the title of mother in my opinion. I really wanted to claw her eyes out.
Elizabeth's pushing away was very persistent. I understand why she behaved that way, but after a certain point it got to be very frustrating. Despite that, I thought this was a different take on your average New Adult book. It had nicely plotted characters, and potential for intriguing follow up books about Declan's twin and Elizabeth's best friends. I'm hooked and ready to read more about the rest of the group of friends in the future.
The writing was well done and I'm no expert, but the two British boys seemed to really come off the pages as natural. Their slang and speech were consistent and appeared realistic-to this American girl. I would recommend this book to New Adult fans who are looking for a new series to follow.
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4 "Dragonfly" stars
Something about a big dude that read Pride and Prejudice made me breathless.
The modern love story of inspiried by Pride and Prejudice!
This a story about a broken girl and a big sexy fighter !
The book took me by surprise because I didn't expect the depth of this book. I like how the problem were handled, there were some issues with the behavior of the heroine but when you know her story you begin to understand why she is like she is.“Love is a knife that cuts out your heart piece by piece, feeding it to the boy you love.”
Elizabeth Bennet is s girl who was taken advantaged of. Her heart was broken and she doesn't believe in man anymore. She doesn't let that boy stole her sense of sexuallity though. Now she uses sex as a distraction, only one-night stands and that's it.
Declan Blay is one of two, he is a twin, yes that's right - there are two of these sexy Birith men *freaking sighhhh* . His life was shattered when his mom died from cancer and he is forced to live with his father. Now he a fighter with a dream of have his own gym, to be in UFC and just end a relationship with a girl he thought he love. I loved his relationship with his brother. He was to protective of him and everyone his loves. He was honorable man fighting for his dream, wanting find his home again.
He is a man who love reading classic literarute and is smart as hell. He didn't look out for a girl until he met Elizabeth . He was enchanted the first time she walked through the door but the things didn't go the way he expected. He didn't want just a fling with Elizabeth . He was something in her, he wanted to know more but she shut him off everytime."I wanted her in my skin
I wanted her in my soul
And I wanted in hers"
But despite everything their chemisty was too strong. They were attracted, they lust for each other too much and when it finally happened.. LET ME TELL YOU THAT THIS BRITISH KNOWS HIS WAY IN BED! It was WOW WOW for me!
“I wanted sex on a mat in an un-air-conditioned gym with a hot as hell British guy pounding into me, no matter the consequences. Fuck my silly sex rules. I wanted him.„
He like his girls strong and the sex hard. He was alpha yet gentle. He did it rough and then sweet. He wanted to make her feel safe, to make her feel good and to see that their relationship it's not just about sex.
The both have scars , they both have pride and prejudices. But despite everything they couldn't deny that their feelings were strong for each other. It's like fate brouth them together. They were like magntes, souls that understand each other.
I really liked this book! It was emotional , with so much depth. It felt realistic to me. The humour was very good, there is actions, drama, passion and romance. The heroine may be a little bithy at times but with reasonable reasons. The hero is a man who more likely will win your heart. There are a lot of fights between the MCs but in the end everything fall into place. I loved the developing of the characters. They grew during their stuggles, they saw that there are things worth fighting for. They understood that they need to listen to their hearts because there is the truth.“Loving Declan was like the rain storms I loved to dance in. Crazy and unpredictable.„
Now I am on a hunt for a british twins! I want Dex or Declan, or both ASAP!!!
I CAN'T WAIT FOR DEX'S BOOOOOOOOOOOK!!!! -
4 Dirty English, Yes Please Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free-Blimey, It's Free!!!!
I just finished my first taste of Ilsa Madden-Mills writing (Fake Fiancee) and totally loved it. I immediately came to this book to continue my enjoyment of her style. I was not disappointed at all. This author has a specific voice and it carries all the way through. It draws you into this story laced with serious moments and I was.
We have this set up in college; past pain and trauma for both main characters and how each of them handles their experiences. Both think they have their way and it is working...yet, only for one of them is it true.
We are privy to what has caused Elizabeth Bennett to be the way she is... closed off and just existing. She thinks she has set up the necessary rules to guide her life and they work...In actuality, they have locked her down... have caused her to miss out of who she really wants to be.. and it is the meeting of Declan Blay, her new neighbor, which causes her to finally confront her demons.
Declan has his own pain and with determination, the support of his twin Dex and the memories of his beloved mum... he knows who he is and what his goals are. He already experienced a messed up relationship...a plastic girl with a cheater's heart...He will not let that happen again.
It is hard for Declan... as he has his late mum's outlook on life... taught to him by her reading of Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice as his bedtime story... He is a man who understands romance and love... and deep down wants it. He may be a jock; fighting underground meets and putting together his own MMA gym with the goal to be a UFC Fighter.... but he also is an English Lit major and can hold his literary own with the best of them.
And one of the best is Elizabeth Bennett... yes, that is her real name and she loves Austin. All of the Austin books blunted out the ugly of her home life... a mother who didn't have a clue how to be there for her child...especially during the worst time in the young girl's life.
Being from the wrong side of the tracks and receiving a scholarship to the best but snooty high school, put a target on Elizabeth's back.... and the in-crowd decided to toy with her...Enter the "big man on campus" pursuing her...making her feel special for the first time... and relentless in telling her he "loved her". Prom night came and before Elizabeth knew what was happening... the ugly reality of betrayal and evil showed its face.
Never again was Elizabeth to allow herself to feel that way... no hearts and flowers, no sonnets for her. Oh, she would own her body... take her pleasure ... but there were rules to making it work and she never strayed from them.
These two hurt souls find each other....and their story is complicated... yet actually not...There is a deep connection from the start which scares the hell out of both of them...but then Declan sees what it is first.... and wants more than anything Elizabeth is willing to give or see...
We are there through it all...with all of the other characters, too... There's a loving and fun twin, Dex...who is much more than he lets on, Elizabeth's two friends who supported her through everything and want her to come back to the happy, artistic girl she use to be...and then there are others who cause the necessary angst for any NA story to work.
All of this comes together... and with the English slang and yummy sexy times between Elizabeth and Declan... All I can say is.... it was an excellent read. Ilsa Madden-Mills, I have become a hardcore fan.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
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4 Dirty Stars.
With a bad past behind her, Elizabeth Bennet has trouble trusting guys. She’s definitely not looking for her Mr. Darcy, but she finds Declan in the way.
With a bad past himself, Declan’s dream is to open his own gym and until then he fights in underground challenges until get enough money for it. He was also not looking for love, but all that meets when his path crosses with Elizabeth’s. But for a man who’s used to fight, can he fight her demons away and make her realize they could be really good together?
This was a sweet and sexy reading that I will honestly say - I was not expecting liking it so much. There are moments where I feel like I can’t read anything new or exciting inside the NA genre, and however, every time I think that there’s one book that steals my heart and make me shut my mouth. This was one of them. Despite some small annoyances, this book left me completely hooked from the beginning, with a smile on my face for the most and my stomach in knots for others. IF you’re looking for a sweet and sexy NA book (and all the drama that involves) with a swoon worthy hero, this is definitely the book for you.
Rating: 4 Stars.
Characters Development: Declan was amazing. I dare you not to fall in love with him. Sweet, honest and very clear about what he wanted I loved him from the first page. Even in the moments I just wanted to beat some sense into him. Elizabeth was nice, but not even close as easier to like as Declan. Yes, I did understand some of her actions considering her past, but still, there were a lot of frustrating moments. I really hope Dax gets his own book, he definitely deserves his own story.
Steam: Hot.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA: -
this was worse than beautiful disaster
literally the same premise except the main character in this one is sexually assaulted before she finds her one true love. and the love interest in this is british.
words can't describe how bad this was. from the dick van dyke in mary poppins slang for the british guy, the girl who is in love with classic literature AND makes her own metal jewelry, to the street fighting... it was just. bad.
and i powered through it thinking i might be rewarded with some decent sex scenes. but to me, plunging your finger in to someone while you're declaring your undying love is just... not sexy. call me old fashioned, but i want a different kind of declaration.
i was also extremely annoyed at the lack of precaution these two college students were taking. "hey i know we're practically strangers but let's fuck raw and hope you don't get pregnant." give me a freaking break. i was hoping it was gonna be some sort of foreshadowing and she would be punished for her stupidity with a surprise child. but unfortunately that never happens.
uh yeah that's all i'm gonna say. this was cheesy, the plot was poor, the characters were my least favorite. and i don't think i want to pick up any other books by this author unfortunately. good riddance and goodnight. -
Pues sintiéndolo mucho, sólo puedo valorar ésta historia con 3 estrellitas, porque por la sinopsis esperaba otra cosa.
Al final me ha parecido una historia new adult más, y no he visto gran cosa diferente. Esperaba algo más del tema de la lucha y se ha quedado en algo muy pasajero.
Tengo que decir que el estilo de la autora me gusta, es sencillo y se lee muy bien y rápido. -
Get it here:
Amazon US *
Amazon UK
Audio re-read 10/27/18
3 'Mr. Darcy Turned Dirty' Stars
Elizabeth Bennett isn't looking for true love and despite her love of Pride and Prejudice she is far from being a romantic. After being betrayed in one of the most horrendous ways by her high school boyfriend she swears off dating and only does one night stands all through college. But then she meets Declan Blay and her one night stand rule may no longer be in play.
Declan is the British bad boy of campus and underground fighter. His world came to a screeching halt when he and his twin brother were ten and their mother died, leaving them in the care of their father who didn't seem to care. He grew up taking care of his brother and playing the fatherly role, but still left time for him to get his playboy reputation on campus. Behind that reputation, though, is a man who reads classic literature and is an admitted romantic. Now he just needs to convince Elizabeth to give him a chance to be more than one of her famous one nighters.
This book had it all. The bad boy fighter, the sweet college romance, the scarred characters, and the sexy as hell parts. It all came together really well and I liked how there were so many different things happening at one time and it wasn't too much where it was annoying or unbelievable.
Declan was a great character that was sexy and smart and a true romantic, which is something you don't always see in books. I really liked how he was so protective over his brother, and how family was important to him. He worked hard for the things he wanted, like to open his own gym, and he didn't like to take hand outs or let other people pay his way, which was really admirable .
Elizabeth, on the other hand, I had a hard time connecting to. I can't really pin point what it was about her that I didn't like but just her overall character wasn't doing it for me. Near the end she was starting to get on my nerves because she couldn't make up her mind about what she wanted from Declan. It was actually making me confused about their relationship since she kept waffling back and forth of what she wanted from him. One moment she wanted him and the next she was pushing him away and didn't want to see him again - yet could still get jealous???
The ending really lowered my rating when everything came together too fast to finish the story. It was suddenly over and I was honestly confused and thinking I had missed something at first. The last ten percent, or so, solved all of the problems in the blink of an eye and it didn't really make much sense. And left me with a few unanswered questions and just things that I wanted explained a little more clearly.
It didn't affect my rating of the book at all, but I didn't really see the connection between Dirty English and Pride and Prejudice. One of the things that drew me to this book was that so many people were comparing it to P&P but I didn't see it that much. The book was mentioned and brought up and a lot and hello, Elizabeth Bennett was the heroine, but that was pretty much it.
Overall, this was a interesting and well written story that I enjoyed. I did have a few problems with it but I still enjoyed reading it and I'm glad I gave it a chance. I woud recommend this book to anyone who likes a smexy NA book and a hot British bad boy. -
Plot- 3.5/5
Hero- 6/5
Heroine-3/5
Well....Elizabeth is a Prick tease and selfish, I don't mind a girl having one night stands, but leading on and then hanging people is selfish.
She really needs to sit down for 1 minute and listen to what people had to say.
And STOP RUNNING.
And most importantly she was telling all the wrong people to go off.
Like her mom needs a big fuck you bitch on her face instead of Declan.
Otherwise, I don't dislike her but she did not make it to my loved heroine's list as well.
The main concept of this book is exactly like Dear Ava and the world building wasn’t the best and the way the book ended it looked like the author was in a rush 🙄 like she was about to surpass her deadline so she called it a day and wrapped things up just like that.
Declan....
l love his name
Now that it is out the way did I mention I love as in love love his name?
I Didn't?
Okay then let me tell you I love his name and all of him even more 😘😍
He is such a sweetheart 🥺 he is so precious 🥺🥺, as in you would want to give him back rub and head massage and kiss him goodnight and keep his nutritious dinner ready before he comes home from work every night.💘
Underneath his steel solid exterior, he is a softie cuddly teddy 🥺❤️ He deserves to be treated like a King, because he is a King. Period.
He actually is the main reason why I picked this book, I really wanted to read about MMA fighter / street fighter.
Someone who is intense and will break a man if it comes to his girl's security and protection. And guess what? I got that from him.
Of course Dax and Declan duo is Golden ❤️
And Shelley, we all deserve a friend like her ❤️
So yeah it was not the best read but not bad either.
Hence a 3/5 stars for British bad boy #TeamDeclan -
**༻Complimentary Copy༺** Provided by the author "Ilsa Madden-Mills" in exchange for an honest review..Thank you!!
TITLE: Dirty English
AUTHOR: Ilsa Madden-Mills
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
RELEASE DATE: October 12th, 2015
MY RATING: 5 STARS
**༻This is my first time reading something by this author༺**
Raw, emotionally gritty, it packs a hell of a punch right from the very first page..I LOVED this for the simple fact that I've read shitloads of fighter books and this just ticks every box and more, it's not your run of the mill fighter book, Declan isn't a thug just screwing his way through life and Elizabeth maybe broken due to trust issues but under all her layers she hasn't made life dictate who she is, she's tough, sassy and speaks her mind..Declan is also a surprise he is an educated, sexy, alpha male who knows what he wants in life and fights for it with a passion..
Tick for the HOT cover
Tick for it being one of my favourite genres
Tick for having a HOT English fighter who *whispers* happens to be a twin (Dax & Declan)
Tick for the complete uniqueness of the storyline
PAST
The trailer trash girl and the son of a senator..
Celebrating Prom Night with her boyfriend, being crowned Prom Queen and King, freely drinking and getting intoxicated, Colby passes her a little white pill..
Then blackness..
She wakes up the next morning in a hotel room, prom dress in ruins, tattered underwear, beaten, bruised, and bloody..
Red marks. Bruises. Scratches. Teeth marks.
Don’t be telling lies about what happened here. No one would believe you anyway as drunk as you were. Still are. I’m sure there’re photos and videos from the prom to prove it.
Whose going to believe her?
TWO YEARS LATER
Twenty year old Elizabeth is now starting her junior year and moving into her new apartment..
A girl with rules.
Over the past year, I'd made it into a game with strict rules. Pick an average guy who wasn't popular, rich, or too good looking, make sure he wasn't taken. Make sure he didn't drink or do drugs. Make sure he wasn't an escapee from the local insane asylum. Have sex. Never speak to him again. End of story.
I only had one neighbor on my left.
In my head I'd pictured my neighbor as more the Harry Potter type, a geek, with black rimmed glasses and a shy smile..
Wrong Wrong Wrong
A frat party, a banter between brothers on who can claim the first kiss from Elizabeth.
If you really want to make me feel better, maybe you’d like to erase Dax’s kiss from my memory with one of your own?
When it came to Elizabeth's rules Declan pretty much just smashed them out..
She fit the mould for the kind of girls I'd seen in my self defence classes. Scared. Vulnerable, Hiding behind her pain.
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☆ I received an ARC via TRSOR PR in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ☆
“The moment that dragonfly landed on you, I knew you were going to rock my world.”
Ladies!!
'The British are coming! The British are coming!'
Two to be exact. Twins. *YESSSSS!! Fist pumps in the air!! I lay claim on both!! I'm greedy like that!! Muahahaha!!*
Dirty English was much more than a NA themed, college love story. Yes, I had romance. But it was mainly about the trials of life, second chances, redemption, persevering through your darkest of times; and, succumbing yourself to taking risks and leaps of faith.
Elizabeth Bennett *yep, the character is really named that*,
has been through the worst pinnacles of love. Left shattered and broken, after the boy she loved leaves her bloody and her heart in tatters, she vows to never love again and to live her life by a new set of rules in insurance that she will never be the one reeling and in pieces.
“Love is a knife that cuts out your heart piece by piece, feeding to the boy you love. Broken in more ways than one, I vowed to never love again.”
Now fast forward two years later, Elizabeth is a changed woman-- only partaking in emotionless and meaningless one night relationships with men. She sees them as vessel of gaining back power and control of what she once lost and was taken from her… that is, until, she meets Declan Blay.
Declan Blay “Ring name: Dirty English” / Older twin bro of Jax Blay
is a half-Brit/American *swoon*, tatted, illegal street fighter who attends the same college university as Elizabeth. A nefarious ladies man and notorious bad boy, commandeering the gorgeous blonde with the skittish personality, is the last of his agenda, after just gotten out of a disastrous relationship with his now ex gf and trying to start up his own gym from the ground up.
But with a haunted look in that masked pain and guarded exterior, Elizabeth piques an interest in Declan, and soon her realizes that they are not so different. Her suffrage and vulnerability strikes an accord close to home with him, and propels him to want to desire more with her, protect her at all essential costs, and a craving for her to want him too.
“Maybe it was more. Deeper. I sensed a kindred spirit with her, a loner who ached to find someone to love for real. Like me.”
I have to say, gosh darn it! This book was over before I knew it, and in a bittersweet way! I wanted it to last forever, and yet, I was sooo content with how it was executed.
I came, I soared, I conquered. Damn, this was an amazing read with a swoonworthy alpha male!!
Dirty English, covers grief, anger, despair and two individuals from different worlds learning to heal and let go of their pasts.
For persons like Emma, who have experienced an event so traumatizing to them like that, it was about trust, reclaiming power and control and ultimately yourself, and opening yourself to life’s unpredictability and to love.
“Loving Declan was like the rain storms I loved to dance in. Crazy and unpredictable."
For Declan, it was finding someone, or something (in this case, someone) to live for. Declan, in a sense, was a lost soul, much like Elizabeth who needed purpose and calming of his own personal sh*% storm. That purpose soon becomes wooing and rebuilding the fair Elizabeth and discovering his own self pillage in the world.
“Was it because she was so wrong for me that I wanted her even more? Yeah. Fuck. Elizabeth Bennett has her pretty little claws in me, and Gold help me, I wanted her to dig them in deeper.”
I really loved how both find a lot of common ground in each other and their love for the English classic, Pride and Prejudice. It was just so fitting that Elizabeth shared the name as Jane Austen’s character as sometimes she and Elizabeth are very strong, intelligent, but mistakenly pre-grudges Declan with a novice that because of his ruggish exterior and underground participation in the fighting ring, that he is bad news and off limits. That of course, like Elizabeth with Darcy, is in fact, a state of prejudice with Declan until she is later proven otherwise and changes her mind about him in the end. Declan, like Darcy, is extremely intelligent, forthright, and hails from wealth (on his father’s side, despite not ever using it to his advantage), a trusty trust fund, and is very miscalculated by Elizabeth by his looks and background.
I believe that Elizabeth and Declan, her Darcy, compliment and counteract each other such endearing and dynamic parallels, that it felt like a fusion of old and new between them and the two main protagonists from Austen’s timeless classic, while also delving into unchartered territory apart from P&P.
They were passionate, they were virtuous, and they were imperfectly perfect for one another.
I absolutely encourage anyone to pick up this read, and am now, seriously hoping and praying for a second novel, as I would LOVE novel. And perhaps, would like to know if there’s anything in the cards for Elizabeth’s besties, Blake and Shelley, and their own love quests for love.
"Nothing matters without you. My past, my rules. It all seems unimportant now."
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4.5 "Dirty Sexy English stars!"
Wow....
That was my first read by Ilsa and I LOVED it!
Declan & Elizabeth's ❤ characters captured my heart, their emotional story of passion combined with fierce determination, and both are dealing with troubled pasts, yet somehow they find each other along the way....;)
Declan & Elizabeth are so HOT together the sex scenes written so well I thought my Kindle was going to melt....(fans self)
Intense raw passion and mind blowing!
I'm looking forward to reading
More books by Ilsa hopefully Declan's yummy brother Dax will get a book! ;) -
4 Unicorn Stars
I simply love MMA fighter books and this one did almost nothing to alter my adoration. I was looking for something different, so I took a chance and started this lovely book. And, I absolutely love this cover!!
Dirty English wasn't over dramatic or boring. I devoured this story, the characters were so relatable it made the reading just fly by. I enjoyed a lot of side characters, as well.
Elizabeth's life has been damaged in the past by a boy who promised her that he would give her everything she wanted, as men in love always do. Soon she saw his worst side, she realized the voidness of his declarations of love and she felt his betrayal both physically and emotionally. Now, she is a hard working college student who avoids any kind of commitment with men in fear of falling once again into the abyss of shame and pain.
Declan is a British underground MMA fighter who can’t seem to tear himself away from Elizabeth. He's magnetically drawn to her...needing to touch her and spend any available moment in her presence. He is strong, damn sexy and an absolute sweety especially to the girl that has caught his eye, Elizabeth. Elizabeth is both vulnerable and strong. The chemistry between the two is powerful and comes across perfectly in this book. Will she let him in her heart? Will Declan be able to make her see that he loves her with his entire soul and that he would do almost anything to make her happy?
This book was very entertaining. However, I'd like more MMA fighting scenes, and I also feel like there are still a few unanswered questions about some side characters, as for example her two best friends and Declan's father. Plus, it was a cute but sometimes cheesy book, with a predictable plot.
Overall, this book is completely smooth-worthy with a great ending. If the book didn’t have those few issues, as previously mentioned, this would have been 5 stars. All in all, a very enjoyable read!
Review copy provided in exchange for an honest review. -
Sometimes I read interesting one-star reviews and take a look at the book and I can make an educated guess that the book is a brain-fart. At that moment, the book masochist in me, takes over the reins and I find myself reading the said book. That's how I came to read this one. And of course the cover didn't help either! It is the most scientific curiosity cough arousing book cover I've ever seen. I mean look at it! Don't you want to observe those muscle groups, the velocity of their movement, energy systems involved. *I was going to use a few of the sciency-words I remember from high school, but I took another look at the specimen we were examining, and forgot ... umm.. something.*
The name is alluring also! Dirty English! With that cover to gaze at, while pondering the name, you may think that we have this delicious hunk, dirty talking in his shudder-inducing accented voice. You'll be way off the mark though. This reminds me, I was going to review the book itself, not the cover. I forgot most of it already, and before I forget this part ,trigger warning; it starts with a rape scene and it manages to feel horrifyingly real without explicit telling.
I picture the author writing this book; about to have her period, eating pints of ice-cream in the candle light, sappiest song ever at the background, thinking about the sappiest and mostest romantic movie she has just watched and the glimpse she saw of a boxing match before turning of the TV to get some more kleenex. As most womenfolk find themselves at this position once or twice or every other month, we learn to not to do shit that affects our lives in a big way, while going trough these phases. Unfortunately this author didn't get the memo.
Romance trope after romance trope. In collage peepsqueak style. -
bad
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An audio review
***3.5 Stars***
I've been listening to audio books a lot more lately and it has been very, very interesting. When I went shopping looking for a new purchase I came across the cover for Dirty English. To say I was a little distracted is a HUGE understatement. I may have even been so distracted that I didn't read the blurb. I mean, I'd seen a lot of friends who had read and loved it, why not just jump in and take the plunge? Well, you can imagine my surprise (and my smacking my forehead in frustration) when I realised I'd picked up an NA, College romance. Ok, Sassy, suck it up buttercup and give it a go...SO I DID!!
The introduction certainly caught my attention and I was sucked into Elizabeth Bennett's world....hold up, haven't I been here before? No, wrong Elizabeth Bennett (cheesy, I know, but I couldn't help myself). This Elizabeth survived a horrible experience that has left her scarred and troubled. She has somewhat put herself back together, but she will never again be the same girl she was before Prom night. Now, that she is in college, she is determined to get her degree and make a life for herself. She has a loser mum who she knows she can't depend on, so any success and future will be all up to her. For awhile things go smoothly and she manages to keep her nose to the grind and keep her relationships strictly to the one night only kind...until she meets Dirty English.
Dirty English is the name that Declan Bray has become known as in the fighting ring. Declan has his nose to the grind too. His dream is to open a gym for fighters and he is definitely on track to have it become a reality. He studies hard and works out hard. To help finance his gym he does some underground fighting. It's dangerous but it is also something Declan loves to do. When Elizabeth Bennett walks into his life, he knows that things are about to change.
This journey is not an easy one. They push and pull each other (as college relationships are wont to do) finding that the attraction is turning to something a lot deeper than either of them expected. Friends are there to have their backs when the ex's (for both of them) invade their lives. Unfortunately, both of them have bad ones...who maybe even have a screw loose...or two...or three. Family get involved and we see how dysfunctional both their lives have been up till now.
Now, in regards to the audio... besides the cover, I picked this one because it has a male narrator and his voice was really appealing in the sample. So, the male narrator does Declan's chapters and there is also a female narrator who does Elizabeth's chapters. I thought it would be cool with a male narrator, but I'm not fully convinced, to be honest. I think the female narrator does a better job dropping her voice for the male characters than the male narrator doing a higher pitched female voice. Just my opinion, though.
Overall, I enjoyed Dirty English. I'm not a huge fan of NA so a 3.5 stars mean that it was pretty damn good. Will I go back and read/listen to more from this author? Maybe, if she does an adult contemporary.
To buy Dirty English from Amazon -
http://amzn.to/2atG2Hg
I’m an Aussie chick who loves to read and review romance, drink coffee, be a Style Setter and stalk David Gandy. To see more of my reviews, fashion, food and pervathons -
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This was a good read, the sex was hot and "Dirty English" better known as Declan Blay was even hotter! He had all of my boxes ticked off...from his tattooes, his muscles, and his intense personality. He is a British street fighter to boot, and when he gives his heart to someone it is forever.
The heroine; Elizabeth Bennett is more protective of her heart, and considering a very traumatic experience she went through it is no doubt that she would be like that. Even though she is extremely vulnerable, she tends to come across as totally in control of herself and everyone around her. Deep inside though, is a young woman who craves to be loved but will not take the chance to do it.
This couple meet at a college frat party, where Elizabeth is on edge as it is. She ends up propositioning the hot British dude, and to her embarrassment..he turns her down. He's not looking for a one night stand, he wants more. So the battle begins, and the push and pull scenario takes place between these two. Did I like it? Some of it yes, and some of it I started to become irritated with the heroine. A pet peeve of mine is when a character wants the other so bad, and reels them in; only to push them away again. So. Not. Cool. BUT, when these two do take the plunge, it was impossible not to become absorbed in their intense passion for one another. I LOVED that so much, and I just wanted all of the story to be about them!!! Of course, it isn't to be that way and there is some angst that is thrown in..mainly from some very bad exes on both sides. Then there is the fact that Elizabeth doesn't like that Declan fights for money. Will these two be able to look beyond their fears and become united?? You have to read to find out!
All in all, it was a great read. The book lost a star because it ended at 75%. I DO NOT like when that happens in any book that I read. I feel cheated. I kept checking to see if there was something wrong with my Kindle!! It is really too bad that it ended that way, especially because I did feel that some of the problem scenarios in the book were fixed just a bit too fast. Considering there could have be 25% more, those problems I feel..could have been looked at more closely.
Other than that, it was an enjoyable read and I don't regret spending my time on it. Only one demand I have now....I want to see a HEA for Dax....Who is he??? Why, he is Declan's twin brother!!! Oh YEAH!!! LOL -
Actually really enjoyed this.
I've read this a while ago but forgot to write a proper review.The story is very interesting and I really connected with both main characters.I see that some readers found Elizabeth annoying but I actually liked her a lot.And I liked Declan a lot,of course.The chemistry between them is amazing and I love how she found that box of classic novels outside his apartment-she totally didn't expect him to look and behave the way he does,haha!So,yeah,I definitely enjoyed reading this book-it's a very fun but also a very serious read.Would recommend to all NA romance lovers. -
Pues me ha gustado muuuucho.
Es un retelling bastante original de "Orgullo y Prejuicio" en estos tiempos modernos, con una trama bien hilada, con muy buen ritmo y con unos personajes que adoras desde el minuto uno. Me quedo con muchas ganas de leer la historia de Dax. -
Poignant opener that's excellently written, author slacks half way through, it becomes a bit tedious, and the HEA just kinda gallops in out of nowhere to call it a day.
So, the poignant opener.... The author leaves out the play by play details of the actual event, but yet writes the wake of devastation with so much poignancy that readers can't help but feel the character's utter pain and betrayal.
I'm immediately struck by the way the author takes a trite sentiment and makes it utterly her own. For example, love and feelings often make us blind to truths.... The author writes:"Clarity happens to all of us when our hearts jump ship, and mine was no different."
Confusion, Though...
Her BFF berates her on her love life:"But no...all you do is study and work at the bookstore. You probably have more colors of highlighters than you have dating prospects. Not to mention you go to the library so much people think you work there."
Yet, in actuality she has a "reputation" around campus for being notorious with her one night stands.
So, it's confusing that her friend treats her like she's a nun in need of nuts while she has a rep of being the equivalent of the pump and dump frat boy.
Characters
While reading about a character lost in the tragedy of past can be well done, it often leads to a character that becomes insufferably irritating and the woe becomes too much. So, I was thrilled to see that this mc is strong as nails. Guarded? Yes, EXTREMELY! Surviving vs living? Yes, CERTAINLY! But, she's not a woe is me girl that sinks into a corner. Respect that."He was not the last person to touch me. My body was my own. So was my heart , and I planned to keep it that way."
The male MC I just never really got... From his initial hot to cold, I want you to I will break you with my rough sex, I don't love my ex to I tolerate her hanging on me, etc. I never got a true feel for who he was outside of a fighter that loves his mum and didn't get along w his dad. I was also irritated that he automatically gets pissy and ignores her after she explains her plight and why she's afraid to give her heart to him. Meh~
The Plot
So the poignant start comes back to haunt the Mc. Good enough, but damn the resolve and half-ass sub plot of stalking and blackmail just... Well, was half-assed. It wasn't developed enough and was resolved suddenly and too easily.
The love triangles X2 were also much ado with an easy out. There's a ribbons and bows tie up for one, and the other is just kinda left to dangle and disappear like a puff of smoke.
The romantic plot, my lack of male mc enthusiasm aside, was much better done. If you're looking for heavy angst followed by heavy sap, then this book is right up your alley. It was just okay for me, but, again, that's mainly because I just wasn't into the guy:/
I liked the "Pride and Prejudice" background theme. Tied in well.
The HEA just kinda oozed sap. It also just seemed to breeze into the story out of place and off kilter. The angst and tension levels were so high for so much of the book. Then, the characters finally express their feelings and cement their status, and almost immediately the subplots are tied up and these two are acting like they're getting married the next day. It felt weird, awkward, rushed, and out of sync. The pacing went from Sunday drive to NASCAR in just a few short pages.
Final Say
It's not horrible, especially if you like tons of angst that eventually gets a balm of sap. The author has so much writing talent, especially in phrasing, but a lot of the story itself just didn't work or felt off the beat... Like climax moments passed and you'd think wtf, and then some big moment would happen in the middle of a lull to leave you a bit aghast. Ehh.. Basically, I felt like the author was singing and I was marching to a completely different beat:/ 2 1/2 stars.
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; )
Hot British twins (Declan & Dax), a ninja turtle (Donatello), a girl named Elizabeth Bennett, and Pride and Prejudice inspired, what's not to like?
Loved it!!
