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The Affair #1-8
The Affair by Beth Kery
NEVER BEFORE PUBLISHEDTHE COMPLETE NOVEL Available for the first time as a complete novel—the serial from the New York Times bestselling author that explores the dynamics of power and sex between two people who set the rules of desire…only to shatter them. When unconventional hospice nurse Emma Shore secured a new position at the Breakers, the sprawling mansion of enigmatic and dangerously handsome racecar billionaire Michael Montand, she had no idea how soon she’d be drawn into his darker sexual games—or that it would be her own fantasies that would hold her captive. Michael knew he shouldn’t have engaged such an innocent woman to share in his desires. But strong sexual appetites and selfishness run in his blood. From Michael’s luxurious lakeside home to the sun-drenched, sensual shores of the French Riviera, Emma submits again and again to his intoxicating power. But she knows there is only one way to protect her heart. The affair will continue, but under her Only she can end it, and when it’s over, they will part and never speak again of the things they dared to do behind locked doors.
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First published September 1, 2015
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About the author
Beth Kery
188 books2,699 followersBeth Kery is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of over thirty novels, novellas and serials. She writes contemporary romances as well as erotic contemporary romances, her hallmarks being emotional intensity, leap-off-the-page realistic characters and steamy sexual tension.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
February 6, 2017
Ok, confession: this was my first smut read. Suggested by a GR friend, I was particularly curious because SO many GR folks are into smut and MM and I was told that this one was better written than 50 Shades of I-Can't-Write-for-Shit so I gave it a shot.
Emma's sister Amanda sleeps with Colin, Emma's boyfriend. Big deal. Emma is a caretaker and taking care of Cristina when she accidentally witnesses a hardcore bdsm scene with a mystery man and a certain Astrid. I didn't really go for that bit too much, a bit too violent. Anyway, turns out the mystery man is Vanni, a rich playboy into racing cars and the rest of the steamy sex is between him and Emma. It goes from loving sex to light sm with some other alternatives. It remains consensual and does not go over the violence line (in my mind anyway) that Vanni had crossed with Astrid.
The story itself happens in Chicago and Nice/Monaco - each of them have some family tragedies in their past and their initial agreement of an eight week affair blossoms into something else.
The writing is ok - there is intrigue and dialogs are realistic. I noticed that it seems to be taboo to talk about arousal when reviewing smut. That seems a bit contradictory to me with respect to the genre. I will say that maybe 40-50% of the scenes were arousing (and perhaps could enhance one's imagination) but I guess it just isn't my genre. But then, and female readers correct me if I am wrong, but I think this erotica is aimed at a female audience more than male ones.
Now, I have been told that there are weirder variations on smut including aliens and shape-shifters. Should I explore any deeper, I would probably go in that direction out of curiosity.
Emma's sister Amanda sleeps with Colin, Emma's boyfriend. Big deal. Emma is a caretaker and taking care of Cristina when she accidentally witnesses a hardcore bdsm scene with a mystery man and a certain Astrid. I didn't really go for that bit too much, a bit too violent. Anyway, turns out the mystery man is Vanni, a rich playboy into racing cars and the rest of the steamy sex is between him and Emma. It goes from loving sex to light sm with some other alternatives. It remains consensual and does not go over the violence line (in my mind anyway) that Vanni had crossed with Astrid.
The story itself happens in Chicago and Nice/Monaco - each of them have some family tragedies in their past and their initial agreement of an eight week affair blossoms into something else.
The writing is ok - there is intrigue and dialogs are realistic. I noticed that it seems to be taboo to talk about arousal when reviewing smut. That seems a bit contradictory to me with respect to the genre. I will say that maybe 40-50% of the scenes were arousing (and perhaps could enhance one's imagination) but I guess it just isn't my genre. But then, and female readers correct me if I am wrong, but I think this erotica is aimed at a female audience more than male ones.
Now, I have been told that there are weirder variations on smut including aliens and shape-shifters. Should I explore any deeper, I would probably go in that direction out of curiosity.
September 3, 2015
4 I couldn’t Get Enough Stars
After reading The Glimmer, I’m a mega fan of Beth Kery. The Affair has been on my radar from sometime, but I never picked it up because of the title. I do not like cheating in books, BUT it’s not what it seems and I promise you, it’s going to be fine.
The Affair, the first time is published in on full length novel, originally it’s was available in 8 segments (each book will be a week in the affair).
Within the first chapter I was instantly drawn to the story. I really like the premise and the mystery element is very attractive. Emma is a hospice nurse and she is hired to take care of Montand’s stepmother. I like how Emma takes care of Montand’s stepmother. She’s a good person, with a good heart and with good intentions. She does not always following instructions, instructions Montand has told her.
Like I said, not everything is as it seems…
There are many questions that go through my mind as I read, like why does Montand refuse to let his stepmother have her curtains open? Why is Emma not allowed to wonder the mansion? Why does Montand have cameras in his step mother’s room? Montand seems very controlling and it makes it all more alluring.
Montand doesn’t believe he’s a good guy, but he desires Emma badly. The steam and chemistry between Montand and Emma is off the charts good. It’s a little kinky but it doesn’t make me uncomfortable, just more interested. There is a touch of bondage play and it just shows the dominate side of Montand. And yes, I was a fan of this (I admit it!).
More questions come to arise, like what is Montand’s past? He seems very tortured and he has his reason for pushing Emma away. I enjoyed the lighter aspects of the book, like when Montand spoils Emma and takes her shopping. It’s a scene I always enjoy when I read these kinds of books (and admit you like it too).
During week three and four the book shifts and it kind of makes the relationship go from light to intense. Without giving too much away, I just like that Emma sees more sides of Montand. Since the book was originally 8 parts, the complete book is pretty lengthy. So you get plenty of steam, tension and character development. It’s an epic story.
The Affair AMAZON
After reading The Glimmer, I’m a mega fan of Beth Kery. The Affair has been on my radar from sometime, but I never picked it up because of the title. I do not like cheating in books, BUT it’s not what it seems and I promise you, it’s going to be fine.
The Affair, the first time is published in on full length novel, originally it’s was available in 8 segments (each book will be a week in the affair).
Within the first chapter I was instantly drawn to the story. I really like the premise and the mystery element is very attractive. Emma is a hospice nurse and she is hired to take care of Montand’s stepmother. I like how Emma takes care of Montand’s stepmother. She’s a good person, with a good heart and with good intentions. She does not always following instructions, instructions Montand has told her.
Like I said, not everything is as it seems…
“The thing of it is, though, I’m still just being selfish. I’m not going to rest until I feel you shake against me”
“It was easy to be swept away by the power of his personality . . . by his intense attractiveness”
There are many questions that go through my mind as I read, like why does Montand refuse to let his stepmother have her curtains open? Why is Emma not allowed to wonder the mansion? Why does Montand have cameras in his step mother’s room? Montand seems very controlling and it makes it all more alluring.
Montand doesn’t believe he’s a good guy, but he desires Emma badly. The steam and chemistry between Montand and Emma is off the charts good. It’s a little kinky but it doesn’t make me uncomfortable, just more interested. There is a touch of bondage play and it just shows the dominate side of Montand. And yes, I was a fan of this (I admit it!).
More questions come to arise, like what is Montand’s past? He seems very tortured and he has his reason for pushing Emma away. I enjoyed the lighter aspects of the book, like when Montand spoils Emma and takes her shopping. It’s a scene I always enjoy when I read these kinds of books (and admit you like it too).
During week three and four the book shifts and it kind of makes the relationship go from light to intense. Without giving too much away, I just like that Emma sees more sides of Montand. Since the book was originally 8 parts, the complete book is pretty lengthy. So you get plenty of steam, tension and character development. It’s an epic story.
The Affair AMAZON
July 23, 2016
Now that's how you do a proper billionaire. Devastatingly handsome, from old money but having made his own fortune, cold, remote yet still a total stallion. Oh and packing a big cock, naturally.
This was originally released in parts so there were lots of mini cliffies along the way, something that made this a pretty gripping read, even though the remote billionaire with mummy issues who's swept off his feet by a caring, naive woman plot isn't particularly new.
He builds cars and has glamorous homes, she's a hospice nurse. They agree to a time limited affair, mainly at her request, so that she doesn't have to watch him getting bored with her, but the more time they spend together, the more loved up they get.
I got the feels reading this, the only thing that didn't really work for me was the half hearted bdsm he was sort of into. I could've done without it, their chemistry worked anyway and he only needed to be his alpha self to make the point I think, the pseudo Dom thing was overkill, not least because of the way the detailed descriptions of the various bits of apparatus bogged down the scenes for me. Trying to picture her all twisted up like a pretzel while he plowed away was a bit of a leap for my imagination.
Apart from that, she made the usual complaints about him buying her stuff before accepting it anyway and there was some fairly low level conflict towards the end, so it had all of the elements I enjoy in a book and expect from my billionaires.
Recommended.
This was originally released in parts so there were lots of mini cliffies along the way, something that made this a pretty gripping read, even though the remote billionaire with mummy issues who's swept off his feet by a caring, naive woman plot isn't particularly new.
He builds cars and has glamorous homes, she's a hospice nurse. They agree to a time limited affair, mainly at her request, so that she doesn't have to watch him getting bored with her, but the more time they spend together, the more loved up they get.
I got the feels reading this, the only thing that didn't really work for me was the half hearted bdsm he was sort of into. I could've done without it, their chemistry worked anyway and he only needed to be his alpha self to make the point I think, the pseudo Dom thing was overkill, not least because of the way the detailed descriptions of the various bits of apparatus bogged down the scenes for me. Trying to picture her all twisted up like a pretzel while he plowed away was a bit of a leap for my imagination.
Apart from that, she made the usual complaints about him buying her stuff before accepting it anyway and there was some fairly low level conflict towards the end, so it had all of the elements I enjoy in a book and expect from my billionaires.
Recommended.
September 1, 2015
WOW! This was so brilliant! One of THE BEST erotic romances I've ever read!
I don't even know where to begin! I am so incredibly IN LOVE with this book! Beth Kery is one of those authors that just pop up out of nowhere with a FABULOUS read. I've only read one other novel by her and it was fantastic as well. I've become addicted to her writing style and every single thing that comes with it. It's a curse and a blessing that I didn't find out about this series until it was all bundled up in one pretty HOT package. It's a curse because, HOLY SHIT, where the fuck have I been, living under a rock I guess. How did I not know about this? The blessing is because, THANK GOD, I would have gone absolutely bonkers if I had to stop for one second in Emma and Michael's story. THE AFFAIR is over 500 pages of delicious and erotic exploration. It's an explosion of lust, sensation, and passion. This book oozes eroticism like no others before it. I'll say it again...ABSOLUTE BRILLIANCE!
OMG! I'm so in love with these characters and their incredible journey they take together. I adored Emma. She is going down as one of my favorite heroines of all time. She is so strong, so complex, and yet, so new to the kind of passion that Michael brings to the table. I love her vulnerability and her courage. But most of all I love how she takes care of Michael. She breaks him down and builds him back up. She shows him his strengths and teaches him about forgiveness and acceptance. Oh, and Michael . I have fallen hard for this character. He is tortured. He is possessive. He is filthy rich and gorgeous. And like Emma, I admire the vulnerability he shows to Emma and Emma alone. He needs to be in control, but when Emma walks into his life, she steals it away, along with his heart. He has been through so much pain and suffering, and to him, Emma is a breath of fresh air in his life. She makes him feel alive and more important she just makes him FEEL. Together these two are explosive!
I felt curiosity and excitement. I felt giddiness and a sense of adventure. I felt happiness, sadness, and so much angst. In the end I felt a profound sense of peace. The entire time I was reading this novel I was FEELING. It was refreshing and so damn perfect. I was utterly captivated by Emma and Michael's grand passion. This is a story I will always remember. These are characters that will forever be in my heart. This is the book you keep on your favorite bookshelf and every once in a while you look over at it and it just makes you smile. That my friends, is what you call an EPIC ROMANCE.
*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
January 18, 2024
Não tenho por hábito ler muito romances eróticos, mas achei este bem fraco. Zero conteúdo, linguagem “barata”.
October 2, 2015
Nothing like a spicy book to curb my appetite
Yummmmm
So...I'm perusing through the bookstore one day, not searching for anything in particular but just looking for something new to read. I shuffled up and down the aisles growing frustrated because nothing is standing out to me. (yes, I'm a cover shopper - if I like the cover, I'll read the back. Don't judge me, it's the graphic designer in me, she's superficial - not me - I swear!) Anyhoosie, as I reach my limit of disappointment, someone puts down this book which immediately catches my eye. I pick it up, read the back...SOLD.
This book flipped between the POVs of the two main characters. Emma The hospice nurse who has been placed to work privately to care for Christina - a former fashionista that married into the Montand family - which happens to be filthy rich - in her last days. The second POV was Micheal Montand aka Vanni "Step son" of Christina that hired Emma to care for her - did I mention he's filthy rich? Yeah, he took over his late father's company that manufactures luxury race cars. Spends his weekends in the south of France, has multiple luxury properties, no big deal.
I liked being in both their heads throughout the story, I always find it fascinating to see through the eyes of other characters -especially in tense situations. I was led to believe by the title and the information provided on the back that this story involves two cheaters. Not the case.
Vanni doesn't do relationships and Emma just got out of one. Therefore, since they can't turn off the high levels of sexual tension between them they decide to allow themselves five weeks together to fully gorge themselves in each other, then walk away like it never happened. Of course that doesn't happen
This story was hellfire hot, there's lots of sex, lots of troubled emotions, more sex, and even more troubled emotions...get it? I didn't mind however because Vanni was described as this model-esque man with dark features, aquamarine eyes, a smile that could cripple you alongside a fiery glare that could seduce you. Naturally, the man that comes into my mind was David Gandy. Mmmmm....Davvvvviiiiiidd Gaaaaannnnddyyy.
I was craving for something hot and got it. The story line was good, you got to see into Vanni's dark past which explains why he's the tortured soul he is. The writing was descriptive, but it was just a little too long. Apart from that, I would more than likely read the other instalments since this is the complete novel to a series of books.
I'll just finish off this review with more David Gandy gifs because....why not.
Yummmmm
So...I'm perusing through the bookstore one day, not searching for anything in particular but just looking for something new to read. I shuffled up and down the aisles growing frustrated because nothing is standing out to me. (yes, I'm a cover shopper - if I like the cover, I'll read the back. Don't judge me, it's the graphic designer in me, she's superficial - not me - I swear!) Anyhoosie, as I reach my limit of disappointment, someone puts down this book which immediately catches my eye. I pick it up, read the back...SOLD.
This book flipped between the POVs of the two main characters. Emma The hospice nurse who has been placed to work privately to care for Christina - a former fashionista that married into the Montand family - which happens to be filthy rich - in her last days. The second POV was Micheal Montand aka Vanni "Step son" of Christina that hired Emma to care for her - did I mention he's filthy rich? Yeah, he took over his late father's company that manufactures luxury race cars. Spends his weekends in the south of France, has multiple luxury properties, no big deal.
I liked being in both their heads throughout the story, I always find it fascinating to see through the eyes of other characters -especially in tense situations. I was led to believe by the title and the information provided on the back that this story involves two cheaters. Not the case.
Vanni doesn't do relationships and Emma just got out of one. Therefore, since they can't turn off the high levels of sexual tension between them they decide to allow themselves five weeks together to fully gorge themselves in each other, then walk away like it never happened. Of course that doesn't happen
This story was hellfire hot, there's lots of sex, lots of troubled emotions, more sex, and even more troubled emotions...get it? I didn't mind however because Vanni was described as this model-esque man with dark features, aquamarine eyes, a smile that could cripple you alongside a fiery glare that could seduce you. Naturally, the man that comes into my mind was David Gandy. Mmmmm....Davvvvviiiiiidd Gaaaaannnnddyyy.
I was craving for something hot and got it. The story line was good, you got to see into Vanni's dark past which explains why he's the tortured soul he is. The writing was descriptive, but it was just a little too long. Apart from that, I would more than likely read the other instalments since this is the complete novel to a series of books.
I'll just finish off this review with more David Gandy gifs because....why not.
October 8, 2015
The Affair was originally released in 8 shorter installments but has recently been compiled into one full-length novel. This is a stand-alone story and not part or larger series or anything. To be totally honest, if I had read only the first installment, I probably wouldn’t have bothered to read the remaining 7. This novel is obviously inspired by the 50 Shades of Grey phenomenon (which, full disclosure, I detested and only read the first one.)
Emma Shore is a young hospice nurse who is hired to attend to the mysterious and wealthy Catherine during her final days. Catherine lives in her stepson’s beautiful beach-front mansion but appears to have a tumultuous relationship with him. He never comes to visit her and communicates with the nursing staff only through his housekeeper.
Michael Montand is a young, brilliant, mysterious billionaire with a tragic past. He has no love lost for Catherine and is somewhat annoyed by the inconvenience her illness is placing on his privacy. He hires full-term nurses for her but orders that they stay on Catherine’s floor only and not venture into other parts of his house. Of course, this order is broken by Emma when a combination of dirty linens and a broken washing machine lead her to search for a laundry room. She inadvertently witnesses Michael in a sexual encounter and, later on, he catches sight of her leaving that section of the house. Each is fascinated by the other.
What I liked: Emma didn’t annoy me nearly as much as Anastasia Steele did and I felt like she had an interesting back-story. The writing wasn’t all that bad (I just didn’t enjoy the story that was being told.)
What I didn’t like: This was basically a retelling of 50 Shades of Grey with slightly more likable characters. A naïve, beautiful young woman – check; a wealthy, mysterious, handsome billionaire with a tragic past and a controlling nature – check; a relationship contract – check; sexual encounters that include elements of BDSM – check (although, to be honest, it was very minor and consisted mostly of Emma’s hands being tied and her bottom being spanked.)
Final Verdict: I feel like the author read 50 Shades of Grey, was as annoyed by the characters as I was, and tried to write Anastasia as more sophisticated and likeable and Christian a less of a jerk. However, the writing itself wasn’t bad and I would try something else by this author if it were not this same type of story.
- Jessica
Emma Shore is a young hospice nurse who is hired to attend to the mysterious and wealthy Catherine during her final days. Catherine lives in her stepson’s beautiful beach-front mansion but appears to have a tumultuous relationship with him. He never comes to visit her and communicates with the nursing staff only through his housekeeper.
Michael Montand is a young, brilliant, mysterious billionaire with a tragic past. He has no love lost for Catherine and is somewhat annoyed by the inconvenience her illness is placing on his privacy. He hires full-term nurses for her but orders that they stay on Catherine’s floor only and not venture into other parts of his house. Of course, this order is broken by Emma when a combination of dirty linens and a broken washing machine lead her to search for a laundry room. She inadvertently witnesses Michael in a sexual encounter and, later on, he catches sight of her leaving that section of the house. Each is fascinated by the other.
What I liked: Emma didn’t annoy me nearly as much as Anastasia Steele did and I felt like she had an interesting back-story. The writing wasn’t all that bad (I just didn’t enjoy the story that was being told.)
What I didn’t like: This was basically a retelling of 50 Shades of Grey with slightly more likable characters. A naïve, beautiful young woman – check; a wealthy, mysterious, handsome billionaire with a tragic past and a controlling nature – check; a relationship contract – check; sexual encounters that include elements of BDSM – check (although, to be honest, it was very minor and consisted mostly of Emma’s hands being tied and her bottom being spanked.)
Final Verdict: I feel like the author read 50 Shades of Grey, was as annoyed by the characters as I was, and tried to write Anastasia as more sophisticated and likeable and Christian a less of a jerk. However, the writing itself wasn’t bad and I would try something else by this author if it were not this same type of story.
- Jessica
June 19, 2017
First time reading a Beth Kery novel. In some way, her style of writing reminds me of Sylvia Day.
Just like Day, Kery is able to create a nice balance between plot and steam.
There are plenty of steam for those who like 'em hot, but there also character development which I really appreciate.
Just like Day, Kery is able to create a nice balance between plot and steam.
There are plenty of steam for those who like 'em hot, but there also character development which I really appreciate.
July 21, 2019
This is my first book by Beth Kery. I found it had the wow factor! so thrilling, now I am going to read more of Beth Kery's books.
Billionaire Michael Montand chief executive officer of Automobiles Montand, French car company based in France, that manufactures luxury sports cars and race cars is dangerously handsome. Emma shore has been hired to look after Michael Montand's terminally ill stepmother.
Emma and her boyfriend Colin had been together for two years. But what kind of woman leaves her boyfriend alone night after night with a stunning woman like her sister Amanda. As Emma comes home from looking after Cristina at the sprawling mansion she walks in and finds her boyfriend Colin and her sister Amanda on the couch, side by side and sees Colin kissing Amanda. Of course it only happened that one time with Colin. Emma should have called things off with Colin a long time ago.
Emma agrees to have an eight week no-strings attached affair with the dashing handsome Michael Montand. After all Emma is only human! Emma and Montand have eight weeks of explosive very sexual encounters together in many locations in Lake Michigan and in the sun-drenched French Riviera, the playground for the rich and famous in Cannes. The sensual scenes are fulfilling your every fantasy.
As Montand's stepmother Cristina dies dark, shocking secrets are discovered.
A hot, mind-blowing story with fabulous beautiful characters. I just loved every page! I thought Berth Kery had a brilliant idea for a story with Emma agreeing to an eight week sexual affair with a race car billionaire. I highly recommend to readers that like reading a story with lots of sexual jaw-dropping scenes.
July 16, 2015
This was an entertaining read, if a little heavy on the melodrama. But WAIT, Wendy, you know it's about a billionaire and an everyday girl, right? Yeah, yeah, it's a popular trope but it can still be done well.
Anyway, this felt very much like one of those classic serial Harlequin romances, except with a lot more explicit sex. European, cultured guy, the "innocent," exotic, isolated setting, and so on, sometimes combined with some of the less sophisticated descriptions of emotions and scenarios as well. I never really felt a zing of emotional attraction between these two, but the the sex scenes are pretty good. Except--and this is strange since a lot of it hinges upon this--the BDSM scenes didn't seem that compelling/convincing to me? The most titillating of these takes place right in the very beginning , and the rest of the dom/sub scenes just didn't play as well to me later on.
But hey, this one seems pretty popular when it was originally published as a serial, so if you're curious, give it a go. Different...strokes and all that. ;)
An advance copy was provided by the publisher for this review.
Anyway, this felt very much like one of those classic serial Harlequin romances, except with a lot more explicit sex. European, cultured guy, the "innocent," exotic, isolated setting, and so on, sometimes combined with some of the less sophisticated descriptions of emotions and scenarios as well. I never really felt a zing of emotional attraction between these two, but the the sex scenes are pretty good. Except--and this is strange since a lot of it hinges upon this--the BDSM scenes didn't seem that compelling/convincing to me? The most titillating of these takes place right in the very beginning , and the rest of the dom/sub scenes just didn't play as well to me later on.
But hey, this one seems pretty popular when it was originally published as a serial, so if you're curious, give it a go. Different...strokes and all that. ;)
An advance copy was provided by the publisher for this review.
December 7, 2015
This book was 500 pages of amazing! I loved this book, both Vanni and Emma we're amazing. There was as not any if the normal foolish woman run because of another female and vice versa. It was an great story of how a loved grew beyond both of their understanding. And man this book was HOT!!!!! YUMMULICIOUS! THIS is a must read folks. The best Beth Kery book I've read. Normally her books rate a 3 star, but this one was awesome!
March 18, 2020
This book was way too long and it honestly could have been cut by 200 pages. There were sooo many filler scenes and characters had no depth at all. Everyone was super one dimensional and even the tortured hero with all his baggage was very predictable. It sounds like i hated the book, but it was honestly very entertaining. It helped me pass the afternoon.
I will say, the heroine is a saint. I would have never forgiven Amanda and I'm glad the author addressed the heroine's reluctance to forgive her in a realistic manner.
For the safety gang:
I will say, the heroine is a saint. I would have never forgiven Amanda and I'm glad the author addressed the heroine's reluctance to forgive her in a realistic manner.
For the safety gang:
July 13, 2020
Sexo, mais sexo e mais sexo acho que nunca li um livro com tannntas cenas de sexo, estava a ver que a historia nunca mais acabava . mas lá o consegui acabar
dnf-lost-interest
November 14, 2017At 40%
Descriptions are way to long and it's inta-love, I was getting bored.
Descriptions are way to long and it's inta-love, I was getting bored.
September 9, 2015
Spotlight & Review: The Affair by Beth Kery http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-30f
Publication Date: September 1, 2015
Genre: Contemporary Romance/ Erotica
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 5 Stars
Seriously hot romance! I love erotic romances with stong alpha males and Montand is one of the ultimate alphas. He's a powerful billionaire who is use to getting anything he wants and Emma is a nurse that draws his interest and fascinates him. This story was fast paced and kept me up all night reading. I couldn't put it down. This was a well written romance filled with mystery, suspense and scorching hot romance. Beth Kery described the characters and delivered their story in such a way that made me feel their emotions and experience their story along with them. I originally read The Affair when it was an eight part serial and I read all eight parts back to back. I think it works better as a full length novel and I'm really happy it's now available in paperback and eBook as one complete novel. I really hope Beth Kery will be writing about another character in this book. I think Montand's cousin deserves his own story. Go grab a copy of The Affair and devour it!
Publication Date: September 1, 2015
Genre: Contemporary Romance/ Erotica
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 5 Stars
Seriously hot romance! I love erotic romances with stong alpha males and Montand is one of the ultimate alphas. He's a powerful billionaire who is use to getting anything he wants and Emma is a nurse that draws his interest and fascinates him. This story was fast paced and kept me up all night reading. I couldn't put it down. This was a well written romance filled with mystery, suspense and scorching hot romance. Beth Kery described the characters and delivered their story in such a way that made me feel their emotions and experience their story along with them. I originally read The Affair when it was an eight part serial and I read all eight parts back to back. I think it works better as a full length novel and I'm really happy it's now available in paperback and eBook as one complete novel. I really hope Beth Kery will be writing about another character in this book. I think Montand's cousin deserves his own story. Go grab a copy of The Affair and devour it!
*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.
Buy Links:
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October 5, 2015
Wow! This was one highly erotic and dramatic book. It was my first book by this author. The way it was constructed was very different and intriguing to me. The story or Michael "Vanni" and Emma's relationship extended over eight weeks.
Emma is just such a great character. She's a twenty three year old woman who works as a hospice nurse. She lives with her younger sister Amanda and has been with her boyfriend for two years. Emma is very down to earth. She enjoys her job and takes it very seriously. Although she takes care of dying people, she doesn't she them as being just that. She treats them with respect and is very good to empathize with her patients. Basically Emma has a big and good heart. She really tries to see the good in people.
Michael "Vanni" Montand is thirty years old. He's the CEO and owner of a French car company. Vanni has experienced a lot of loss in his life. That's the reason why he's resigned to his sadness. Doesn't let people inside his closed up walls. He's somber and controlled. Especially when it comes to his work/company and when he's having sex. When he meets Emma and they agree to having an affair, is when Vanni slowly starts to change and open up. It's very difficult for him but he tries and it takes time.
Emma and Vanni's affair or sexual relationship is very intense. He's very experienced whereas Emma isn't. But Emma is very open to try new things, but that's also since she's very attractive to Vanni. Thanks to him Emma rediscovers her own body and needs and isn't afraid to voice it.
I really enjoyed the way the author wrote Emma and Vanni's sex scenes. It wasn't just smutty sex. It was so well written in a deeply erotic way. I could feel the built up from the beginning of a scene and it stretched through out in a slow sexy and arousing pace.
That pace worked mostly in those scenes but overall I thought the pace was too slow. Also I needed a little more action in the sense of drama. Overall it was a good and very erotic love story.
3 BadAssAndHighlyEroticStars
September 23, 2015
This was a good overall story, though I'm really glad I didn't read it as a serial. I like the idea of the haunted hero being "reborn" with the heroine. I always like the stories where the hero is rich, but the heroine really wants nothing to do with his money. I mean sure, she'll go on trips with him, but even when she thought she wasn't going to France, she told him to return everything he'd bought her for the trip. And it's a common story plot, but the idea of the hero who thinks he *can't* love actually realizing that's what it is... always fun to watch that realization. Considering their immediate attraction, I'm not sure why either of them thought five weeks would do it. I get why the deadline was there, but it was clear to everyone, including themselves, that five weeks wasn't really going to work. I knew Mrs. Shaw wouldn't win, but I wondered how it was going to play out. I was pleased with where everything ended up. It was another solid story from Beth Kery.
October 8, 2015
The first time in ever my tongue is stuck. Words left me, how gorgeous this book was.
Beth Kery is taking us into the world of a beautiful tortured man who lost everyone that mattered to him and the ability to feel for another human being.
In this point of his life entering his life a beautiful, enigmatic, sensual, incredible, sweet, understanding, Forgiving young woman. and all things changes..
Bath Kery is the only author that her BDSM books calling for me. This because she's a marvelous author who gave us all much more than just erotic story. Every word, landscape, food, music, clothes, emotions, thoughts, touches, Anxiety, every one of this things and more were delivered the best way for the reader to feel the story. Not just reading it. It's keeping you captivated.
It was an honor to read such a good story.
Beth Kery is taking us into the world of a beautiful tortured man who lost everyone that mattered to him and the ability to feel for another human being.
In this point of his life entering his life a beautiful, enigmatic, sensual, incredible, sweet, understanding, Forgiving young woman. and all things changes..
Bath Kery is the only author that her BDSM books calling for me. This because she's a marvelous author who gave us all much more than just erotic story. Every word, landscape, food, music, clothes, emotions, thoughts, touches, Anxiety, every one of this things and more were delivered the best way for the reader to feel the story. Not just reading it. It's keeping you captivated.
It was an honor to read such a good story.
January 11, 2018
I really enjoyed it. I found the premise interesting since the romance was woven around past tragedy and drama. That is so unique...lol. It was well constructed. It was well written. The characters were developed and the layers were peeled back a little at a time. It was a solid good story. I had to get to the end, i needed to find the closure I needed. I liked this book.
September 6, 2015
Wow... Incredible story. I could not put it down. I was so fixated and drawn to the characters and everything going on in Vanni's life. Emma was such a beautiful person. Loved loved loved. Definitely an all time favorite!
March 7, 2016
Sexy. Sexy. Sexy. I love Beth Kery. My only gripe with her novels--and it's a quibble--is that back-door play does NOTHING for me. But let me repeat: I LOVE BETH KERY.
August 31, 2023
"It's all down to you, mon petit ange. You've pulled me into the world of the living, and now that I'm here, I'll never let you go,"
Beth Kery is turning into my favorite author and I've only read two of her books, but they were two remarkable books. She has an amazing gift for writing about passion and emotion. I constantly felt every sentiment as if they were my own.
I loved learning little bits about Emma and Vanni (Michael) and what makes them who they are. Every bit of their lives and the side characters were so well thought out. "Maybe you're such an expert on death because you're afraid to live," They are so good together, the chemistry is staggering. How could she not fall in love with sweet, brooding, demon-filled Vanni? And he with strong, caring, bright Emma? "'What have you done to my gloomy Vanni?' 'She's beat him into the shadows, where he belongs,'"
As much as he talks of himself as being selfish and heartless, Vanni is so sweet and deep. I first thought this would be a Fifty Shades of Grey rewrite, there is a comment about him losing his virginity to his step-mom's socialite friend, but not even close. He is so much softer and more human than Christian Grey is ever portrayed. Vanni ignores his urges to touch her and be with her to allow her to experience life and new things.
The only complaints I have, is there are some repetitive phrases, as if she forgot she already made that reference a couple of paragraphs or pages back. Emma is a super smart and caring character, but without spoiling anything, makes the stupidest decisions in my opinion for the main conflict. "'Perhaps he deserves to know the truth.' 'No,' Emma said forcefully," What do you mean he doesn't deserve to know the truth? Of course, he does.
All in all, an astounding book, crippling passion, excellent emotion, and strong character development. I could write on and on about how strongly I feel about Kery's writing skills, but you just have to read her. I will continue to watch for Beth Kery books to see if they all hold up to The Affair and Behind the Curtain, and I will definitely read about Emma and Vanni again.
"I love you ... I never thought I'd tell another person that. I thought I knew what that word meant. But I've never known this."
Beth Kery is turning into my favorite author and I've only read two of her books, but they were two remarkable books. She has an amazing gift for writing about passion and emotion. I constantly felt every sentiment as if they were my own.
I loved learning little bits about Emma and Vanni (Michael) and what makes them who they are. Every bit of their lives and the side characters were so well thought out. "Maybe you're such an expert on death because you're afraid to live," They are so good together, the chemistry is staggering. How could she not fall in love with sweet, brooding, demon-filled Vanni? And he with strong, caring, bright Emma? "'What have you done to my gloomy Vanni?' 'She's beat him into the shadows, where he belongs,'"
As much as he talks of himself as being selfish and heartless, Vanni is so sweet and deep. I first thought this would be a Fifty Shades of Grey rewrite, there is a comment about him losing his virginity to his step-mom's socialite friend, but not even close. He is so much softer and more human than Christian Grey is ever portrayed. Vanni ignores his urges to touch her and be with her to allow her to experience life and new things.
The only complaints I have, is there are some repetitive phrases, as if she forgot she already made that reference a couple of paragraphs or pages back. Emma is a super smart and caring character, but without spoiling anything, makes the stupidest decisions in my opinion for the main conflict. "'Perhaps he deserves to know the truth.' 'No,' Emma said forcefully," What do you mean he doesn't deserve to know the truth? Of course, he does.
All in all, an astounding book, crippling passion, excellent emotion, and strong character development. I could write on and on about how strongly I feel about Kery's writing skills, but you just have to read her. I will continue to watch for Beth Kery books to see if they all hold up to The Affair and Behind the Curtain, and I will definitely read about Emma and Vanni again.
"I love you ... I never thought I'd tell another person that. I thought I knew what that word meant. But I've never known this."
March 12, 2024
(DNF) No Plot. Just Smut.
Normally I am super okay with just Smut, but even the conversations they were having I was just not digging it.
I was excepting more with the Hospice Situation and especially the Cheating situation. But nope! Just kinda turned into nothing.
You know during the passing of Michael’s Step mother she brought up some information that caught Emma’s attention. During the situationship between Emma and Michael she always determined to figure out what they were talking about.
I did see people mention the common ideas with Author Sylvia Day, and I definitely agree. I do feel that Sylvia Day has more plot to her books and it isn’t just Smut.
Here’s the thing…. The smut wasn’t bad actually! It was pretty good! My only complaint? Some of the descriptive words and saying were just horribly Cringey. I had to put the book down because my brain would not stop repeating some of the words.
I didn’t want to read in enough to figure what happened with Michael’s past life. I didn’t feel energy to read more about his business. There’s just so much more that could have been done with this book vs just mid Smut.
Normally I am super okay with just Smut, but even the conversations they were having I was just not digging it.
I was excepting more with the Hospice Situation and especially the Cheating situation. But nope! Just kinda turned into nothing.
You know during the passing of Michael’s Step mother she brought up some information that caught Emma’s attention. During the situationship between Emma and Michael she always determined to figure out what they were talking about.
I did see people mention the common ideas with Author Sylvia Day, and I definitely agree. I do feel that Sylvia Day has more plot to her books and it isn’t just Smut.
Here’s the thing…. The smut wasn’t bad actually! It was pretty good! My only complaint? Some of the descriptive words and saying were just horribly Cringey. I had to put the book down because my brain would not stop repeating some of the words.
I didn’t want to read in enough to figure what happened with Michael’s past life. I didn’t feel energy to read more about his business. There’s just so much more that could have been done with this book vs just mid Smut.
February 15, 2023
I once again fell into a novella trap but this one is so well done I didn’t realize it until I came to review.
Typically novellas that are put together like this lack flow and seem rushed to me. If anything, I was coming here to complain that it was too long is some places but it makes so much sense now that I know it’s EIGHT friggin’ books.
My thought process was something like “THIS DIDN’T NEED TO BE 500….oh.”
This actually moves this from a 4 to a 4.5 for me.
The umph that a lot of romance novels are missing can be found in spades between the lines of these pages. It was simple but endearing and mushy in all the right places.Book version of a chick-flick….but with kink.
I liked how the spice was done as well - it was kinky but sensual. A lot of the books with this subject matter focus a lot on the lust. This focused on the love and patience our MMC has in teaching something so mmmh. It separates itself from other books with similar plots with this detail alone.
And of course we have a little bit of Jerry Springesque drama involved. Very minor, nothing overwhelming but it made everything more interesting. Emma is a better sister than me, I know THAT for sure.
Typically novellas that are put together like this lack flow and seem rushed to me. If anything, I was coming here to complain that it was too long is some places but it makes so much sense now that I know it’s EIGHT friggin’ books.
My thought process was something like “THIS DIDN’T NEED TO BE 500….oh.”
This actually moves this from a 4 to a 4.5 for me.
The umph that a lot of romance novels are missing can be found in spades between the lines of these pages. It was simple but endearing and mushy in all the right places.Book version of a chick-flick….but with kink.
I liked how the spice was done as well - it was kinky but sensual. A lot of the books with this subject matter focus a lot on the lust. This focused on the love and patience our MMC has in teaching something so mmmh. It separates itself from other books with similar plots with this detail alone.
And of course we have a little bit of Jerry Springesque drama involved. Very minor, nothing overwhelming but it made everything more interesting. Emma is a better sister than me, I know THAT for sure.
February 27, 2019
Review is being written...
May 21, 2023
Very good plot very spicy!
February 12, 2025
Currently reading this. Started it last night before bed and I read 2 more chapters than I told myself I would bc I couldn’t put it down. Will update when finished. Giving 3 stars bc I’m not too far into it yet
June 29, 2016
This book is the perfect beach read. I just wish I had a relaxing day at the beach in order to do just that. Instead, work and life disrupted me enough that these 500 pages took me a week to finish.
I loved how Vanni and Emma played off of each other. She's the hospice nurse with an innocent and kind heart. He's the brooding millionaire with the weight of the world on his shoulders.
While she cares for one of his ailing relatives, he becomes quite captivated by her. once the two strike up a conversation, all bets are off, and they want more time together. The only problem... Vanni doesn't do anything long-term.
Emma enforces a time limit on their affair, but as the weeks pass, they both find their limit and end hard to stick by. After a blissful time together, will they walk away, or break down the walls that hold them back?
I'm a sucker for a book with a tortured soul as my main man, and Vanni Montand was no exception. Emma had a purity and sweetness about her that made him better when he was in her presence. I knew they'd have obstacles to overcome, but when you find yourself on the coast of France in a rustic estate right at the water's edge, there's little to object to or overthink.
I loved how Vanni and Emma played off of each other. She's the hospice nurse with an innocent and kind heart. He's the brooding millionaire with the weight of the world on his shoulders.
While she cares for one of his ailing relatives, he becomes quite captivated by her. once the two strike up a conversation, all bets are off, and they want more time together. The only problem... Vanni doesn't do anything long-term.
Emma enforces a time limit on their affair, but as the weeks pass, they both find their limit and end hard to stick by. After a blissful time together, will they walk away, or break down the walls that hold them back?
I'm a sucker for a book with a tortured soul as my main man, and Vanni Montand was no exception. Emma had a purity and sweetness about her that made him better when he was in her presence. I knew they'd have obstacles to overcome, but when you find yourself on the coast of France in a rustic estate right at the water's edge, there's little to object to or overthink.
February 3, 2016
Couldn't put it down!
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time that I just couldn't put down! I thought from the title it was about a cheating affair, but it was the complete opposite. Beth' s writing was so enjoyable I'm sad that I waited so long to read it or any of her books. Again this was a great story with a HEA!!!!!!
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time that I just couldn't put down! I thought from the title it was about a cheating affair, but it was the complete opposite. Beth' s writing was so enjoyable I'm sad that I waited so long to read it or any of her books. Again this was a great story with a HEA!!!!!!
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