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The Sinclair Brothers #1
Mad Love by Abedi, Colet (2014) Paperback
23-year-old aspiring artist Sophie Walker can think of no better place than the exotic paradise of the Maldives to escape the wrath of her controlling parents, the monotony of her boring legal work and her passionless boyfriend. With her two best friends along for the ride and to help her find herself again, Sophie is not prepared for the enigmatic Clayton Sinclair. Clayton comes from another world of privilege that seems like a fantasy to Sophie. Can this man introduce her to the passion & seduction she never realized she was desperately searching for? Sophie quickly becomes ensnared in Clayton's seductive web until a shocking treachery makes her question her judgment and actions...
Paperback
First published March 10, 2014
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About the author
Colet Abedi
19 books363 followersColet Abedi is an Iranian-American, best-selling author, television and film producer. She was born in Virginia and currently lives in Los Angeles. When she's not writing she's either off on an adventure in a far-off land or planning her next getaway. She writes contemporary romance and young adult.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 304 reviews
September 19, 2015
4.5 stars!
I signed up for this Mad Love on a whim. I had not heard of this book, but damn that cover called out to me…and I must say I am soooo glad it did because I absolutely loved Mad Love by Colet Abedi. I was swept away to the Maldives and read this book cover to cover in one sitting.
Mad Love is Sophie’s story….she has given up the life that was expected of her for a life that she wants for herself. As she and her two best friends jet off to the beautiful Maldives, Sophie begins to be able to breathe and start calculating what her next move in life will be. Little does she know that a gorgeous, uber wealthy Brit is going to sweep her off her feet….physically and mentally. And let me tell you Clayton Sinclair is simply amazing. A bit controlling, but hey if we are all honest with ourselves, it is one of the things that attracts us to these amazing male characters.
I was totally in love with Ms. Abedi’s storytelling. I felt like she wrote very honest and true to life characters that one could really identify with. It is scary to make life altering decisions and Sophie’s plight was one most of us pondered at her age. What in the hell do we want to do with our life? During the times that Sophie kind of frustrated me, remembering that she is a young twenty something year old woman that honestly would get jealous, would be nervous about sexual experiences, would question Clayton’s feelings for her only made her more real to me. Erik and Orie, Sophie’s best friends were amazingly funny and supportive and the kind of guys you want to have your back. I was totally cracking up during a lot of their scenes and rooting for them to get through to Sophie as she was vacillating between her feelings for Clayton. We should all have friends like Erik and Orie.
If you are the type of reader who is drawn to fashion or the finer things in life, Mad Love will totally satisfy your needs. I could totally envision the yachts and the clothes and hotel and the villas. The scenery was beautiful and one that was described in a way that was very visual to me. I wasn’t left guessing at what was happening in this book or where things were taking place because they were written with such amazing descriptions. As a reader, I totally love when the author can transcend me from my home in Georgia and put me right in the middle of the book and Ms. Abedi really excelled at this in her writing.
In a world of books about billionaires and their lady loves, Mad Love stands head and shoulders above the crowd. As far as the heat, Colet Abedi proves that she can bring it and bring it in a way that will scorch your ereader. I have a new book boyfriend in Clayton, and one I might not want to share. I recommend that you read this book, because I promise you, you will be swept away by Clayton and Sophie just as I was. Although there is a huge plot cliffhanger and I am dying for book 2, their love story is one that won’t disappoint you. Trust me. 4.5 Mad Loving Stars!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1zhSqTL
I received this ARC from InkSlinger PR for an honest review!
I signed up for this Mad Love on a whim. I had not heard of this book, but damn that cover called out to me…and I must say I am soooo glad it did because I absolutely loved Mad Love by Colet Abedi. I was swept away to the Maldives and read this book cover to cover in one sitting.
Mad Love is Sophie’s story….she has given up the life that was expected of her for a life that she wants for herself. As she and her two best friends jet off to the beautiful Maldives, Sophie begins to be able to breathe and start calculating what her next move in life will be. Little does she know that a gorgeous, uber wealthy Brit is going to sweep her off her feet….physically and mentally. And let me tell you Clayton Sinclair is simply amazing. A bit controlling, but hey if we are all honest with ourselves, it is one of the things that attracts us to these amazing male characters.
I was totally in love with Ms. Abedi’s storytelling. I felt like she wrote very honest and true to life characters that one could really identify with. It is scary to make life altering decisions and Sophie’s plight was one most of us pondered at her age. What in the hell do we want to do with our life? During the times that Sophie kind of frustrated me, remembering that she is a young twenty something year old woman that honestly would get jealous, would be nervous about sexual experiences, would question Clayton’s feelings for her only made her more real to me. Erik and Orie, Sophie’s best friends were amazingly funny and supportive and the kind of guys you want to have your back. I was totally cracking up during a lot of their scenes and rooting for them to get through to Sophie as she was vacillating between her feelings for Clayton. We should all have friends like Erik and Orie.
If you are the type of reader who is drawn to fashion or the finer things in life, Mad Love will totally satisfy your needs. I could totally envision the yachts and the clothes and hotel and the villas. The scenery was beautiful and one that was described in a way that was very visual to me. I wasn’t left guessing at what was happening in this book or where things were taking place because they were written with such amazing descriptions. As a reader, I totally love when the author can transcend me from my home in Georgia and put me right in the middle of the book and Ms. Abedi really excelled at this in her writing.
In a world of books about billionaires and their lady loves, Mad Love stands head and shoulders above the crowd. As far as the heat, Colet Abedi proves that she can bring it and bring it in a way that will scorch your ereader. I have a new book boyfriend in Clayton, and one I might not want to share. I recommend that you read this book, because I promise you, you will be swept away by Clayton and Sophie just as I was. Although there is a huge plot cliffhanger and I am dying for book 2, their love story is one that won’t disappoint you. Trust me. 4.5 Mad Loving Stars!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1zhSqTL
I received this ARC from InkSlinger PR for an honest review!
July 22, 2019
I picked this one up as a light read, then couldn't put it down. Now I need to know what happens next...
Clayton Sinclair is a narcissistic control freak, but totally addictive.
Clayton Sinclair is a narcissistic control freak, but totally addictive.
March 14, 2014
"When I was growing up my parents always told me never to talk to strangers, and here I am, about to sleep with one."
Call me a glutton for punishment, but despite numerous flaws, tropes, and myriad other things that should have turned me off of this story, I ended up really loving it! It's full of angst and drama, so please don't attempt it if you're not prepared for that. I was apparently in the mood because Sophia and Clayton's love story was thoroughly entertaining, and quite frankly...
I want more!
I'm so wishy washy because seriously, the last book I read that was this angsty bugged the hell out of me but somehow, this story was put together in such a way that it brought me back to my younger years, when something like this would have been the beginning and end of my entire universe.
~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`
SHORT SYNOPSIS: Sophie and her two best (gay) friends are on a spontaneous trip to the Maldives. Why? Because not only did Sophia just quit law school, where she was expected to follow her father's footsteps, but she also broke up with her lifelong friend and recent fiancee. She turned her world upside down and now she needs to forget. So she breaks her own bank and splurges on a relaxing trip to the exotic locale.
Upon arriving at their destination, a marvelous hunk of man meat (Sorry, can't help it. Clayton's just man meat.) her eyeballs clash and hold with the mysterious, enigmatic, and rich as hell English/American playboy Clayton Sinclair. And he makes no apologies for making his interest known.
Clayton proceeds to bully his way into Sophie's life, throwing his money and influence around to put her exactly where he wants her. It is quickly apparent where these two stand with each other...Clayton is powerful and filthy rich, overly confident, and used to getting what he wants. Sophie is well off but far from rich, in a vulnerable position emotionally, a naive little virgin who is quickly overwhelmed and under extreme lust for the charismatic, sexy bully. How could she not be, when romance and sex are in the air...and on the beach?
Combining their lives may prove more than they can handle, however. When even Clayton begins to feel like he's in over his head with the lovely and innocent Sophia, it begs the question: will this Mad Love survive the real world?
~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`
MY THOUGHTS:
Like I said, I shouldn't have liked this so much, but I did. I dug it. I dug the crap out of it. It was a complete and utter fantasy, escapism to the max...sexy and fast, rich and slightly unbelievable...soap opera worthy, but it's the kind that makes you want to keep watching.
I think what makes this story work for me is how likeable the author makes everyone. Sophie's not used to taking a hard stance about anything, really. She's been coddled and overprotected for her entire life, so it's as if she's taking these baby steps and is sort of wobbly with it all. Her innocence is a little endearing, if improbable for age 23.
Sophie's best friend, Erik and his boyfriend Orie...I LOVED THEM! They are my favorite part of the book. Not overtly rainbow pride...this didn't read like a plea for equality...they were just there, and they are gay, and they are so lovable, and so in love with each other, that I couldn't help but fall for them. They support her no matter what, they give it to her straight, they give Clayton a fair shot, and they made me crack up like crazy.
"Do you want to know what sacred is? Sacred is buying this bitch tampons at two a.m., because she's bleeding like a double homicide crime scene and can't make it to the pharmacy. Sacred is waxing her armpits and bikini line so she wouldn't look like a beast at the high school graduation beach party! Sacred is driving her ass to Jerry the Fairy's and waiting down the street, in a goddamn rose bush, with thorns in my ass, by the way, just so she wouldn't be alone when she dumped him..."
Clayton Sinclair...yeesh, what a hot mess of a man...richer than any man has a right to be, he's got so much power and charm, it's ridiculous. Just shameful. And he wants Sophie. It's every woman's dream. He's also got a bit of a dark side. His possessiveness and bossiness was waaaaaaay over the top. I'm talking eye-roll inducing stuff here.
<"No, you can't have shots tonight."
and
"Go change your dress right now."
and
"I'm not mad. I'm livid. Prepare for a punishment of spankings and doom, followed by the c#ck of your dreams when I make you beg for forgiveness!!!"
You get the idea....Over The Top. But still hot. **wink**
I keep picturing William Levy as Clayton...suave, sexy, and he knows it!
And Clayton shows a vulnerable side, but without the ever present tortured hero thing. This author actually makes him personable without any huge secrets and shady dealings! He's a nice guy under all that money and class. It just took falling for this little innocent bombshell to bring out the bewilderment in him. And it was really sweet. He's just a little freaked about these feelings he's got suddenly.
"I've never felt this miserable before. I just want you to know that. I want you to know that you're responsible for this feeling of discomfort I have. I'm not used to it. And honestly, I hate it."
~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`~`*`
Poor Clayton. And poor Sophie. Like a said...massive cliffhanger but I'm crossing my fingers that the next book is right around the corner. I'm snatching it up ASAP.
** Recommended for lovers of Fifty Shades type of books, the New Adult genre, loads of angst, and pushy, possessive alphas.
Review copy provided by Bird Street Books via Net Galley
September 12, 2015
Maldives. Artist heroine. Enigmatic hero. Sounds like a premise of an interesting romantic story. Or so I thought.
Instead it was: Maldives. Virgin heroine. Possessive billionaire hero.
Now, I don't know about anyone else, but I am definitely over that kind of romance. As far as I'm concerned, one was more than enough.
There are two reasons I finished this book: 1. I downloaded it from NetGalley, so I kind of felt obligated to read it to the end, and 2. the writing style of the author was something I liked in this book. I kept thinking that it would've been nice that this was a romantic comedy, because it would've worked great for me. But, no. Unfortunately, it was another virgin/billionaire book.
I'm aware I keep using the word virgin for the heroine. Believe me, I am aware. It's due to the fact that a lot of the story focuses on the fact that she is a virgin, and later on how she no longer is. And at one point that just started getting on my nerves. From the way she and everyone else talked about her, I felt like "virgin" was her whole identity. It would become a topic in every conversation she had, including her inner monologues.
Then the hero appeared to help with her "condition". Of course, as soon as they lay eyes on each other, they feel instant attraction. The hero, Clayton, being a wealthy businessman, is used to getting everything he wants, and he wants Sophie (that's the heroine), and whether she likes it or not, he's going to get her.
Personally, I did not find one single thing I liked about Clayton. He was arrogant, possessive, ill-tempered, rude, and just outright creepy. Using sex to get Sophie to say or do whatever he wants, and those mood swings are something that raised a lot of red flags for me. More than once I had the urge to scream to Sophie:
But in the end, the things I found disturbing, Sophie thought of as sweet, and proof that he likes her. Oh, that reminds me: throughout the book this was Sophie:
Oh, yes, our little innocent Sophie was very insecure in her "relationship" with Clayton, which led to a few ridiculous arguments that really could have been avoided by simply using their mouths for talking.
You know who did a lot of talking? Sophie's mind. Honestly, that thing never shuts up. It was fun at first, but after a while, it just became too much. I believe that is one of reasons I dislike Clayton - I never actually got to know him. He would say something, and then Sophie would start her inner monodrama, so that everything about him got lost in the process of Sophie's analyzing his every word.
One thing I liked, besides the setting, was Erik and Orie, Sophie's best friend and his boyfriend. Except for a few lapses, they provided the much needed voices of reason. Every time Sophie would start to lose it, they had a way of setting her straight and talking some sense into her, but quite honestly, the woman is faster than a bullet when it comes to jumping to conclusions. That ending was just blah. Way to create a cliffhanger.
Lastly, even though it doesn't say in the blurb, this is not a standalone novel. I don't know how many books will there be in the series (I'm assuming three); I only know that there will be book two. This is something I would have preferred to know at the beginning.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
Instead it was: Maldives. Virgin heroine. Possessive billionaire hero.
Now, I don't know about anyone else, but I am definitely over that kind of romance. As far as I'm concerned, one was more than enough.
There are two reasons I finished this book: 1. I downloaded it from NetGalley, so I kind of felt obligated to read it to the end, and 2. the writing style of the author was something I liked in this book. I kept thinking that it would've been nice that this was a romantic comedy, because it would've worked great for me. But, no. Unfortunately, it was another virgin/billionaire book.
I'm aware I keep using the word virgin for the heroine. Believe me, I am aware. It's due to the fact that a lot of the story focuses on the fact that she is a virgin, and later on how she no longer is. And at one point that just started getting on my nerves. From the way she and everyone else talked about her, I felt like "virgin" was her whole identity. It would become a topic in every conversation she had, including her inner monologues.
Then the hero appeared to help with her "condition". Of course, as soon as they lay eyes on each other, they feel instant attraction. The hero, Clayton, being a wealthy businessman, is used to getting everything he wants, and he wants Sophie (that's the heroine), and whether she likes it or not, he's going to get her.
Personally, I did not find one single thing I liked about Clayton. He was arrogant, possessive, ill-tempered, rude, and just outright creepy. Using sex to get Sophie to say or do whatever he wants, and those mood swings are something that raised a lot of red flags for me. More than once I had the urge to scream to Sophie:
But in the end, the things I found disturbing, Sophie thought of as sweet, and proof that he likes her. Oh, that reminds me: throughout the book this was Sophie:
Oh, yes, our little innocent Sophie was very insecure in her "relationship" with Clayton, which led to a few ridiculous arguments that really could have been avoided by simply using their mouths for talking.
You know who did a lot of talking? Sophie's mind. Honestly, that thing never shuts up. It was fun at first, but after a while, it just became too much. I believe that is one of reasons I dislike Clayton - I never actually got to know him. He would say something, and then Sophie would start her inner monodrama, so that everything about him got lost in the process of Sophie's analyzing his every word.
One thing I liked, besides the setting, was Erik and Orie, Sophie's best friend and his boyfriend. Except for a few lapses, they provided the much needed voices of reason. Every time Sophie would start to lose it, they had a way of setting her straight and talking some sense into her, but quite honestly, the woman is faster than a bullet when it comes to jumping to conclusions. That ending was just blah. Way to create a cliffhanger.
Lastly, even though it doesn't say in the blurb, this is not a standalone novel. I don't know how many books will there be in the series (I'm assuming three); I only know that there will be book two. This is something I would have preferred to know at the beginning.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
March 15, 2017
“It’s the world I come from, baby. We get what we want and we don’t take no for an answer.”
I finished it!! I.FINISHED.IT!!! Holy shit, I'm proud of myself! I mean, it was insta-love, which I hate, but to be honest, Clayton Astor Sinclair made it all (okay not all) worth it. He was awesome. Sexy. Controlling. Dominant. Possessive. Sexy on two legs. And if it weren't for that damn insta-love/insta-soul connection the book had going, then I think I would have really liked the book.
“You know what they say about wolves?”
“What’s that?” I ask softly.
“That they mate for life.”
Sophie Walker though, was REALLY annoying at times. So naive, and whiny, insecure; she's constantly doubting herself (and others). Had really lost self-esteem, but she had her good moments. When alcohol got into her system, she got some balls and she was sassy when she was pissed. She was alright.
When I was growing up my parents always told me never to talk to strangers, and here I am, about to sleep with one.
The side-characters were AWESOME! Erik and Orie was bloody fantastic! The bestest best friends you can ever have. They supported Sophie through it all, specially Erik. They had her back always and I just adored them!!
"I've never felt this miserable before. I just want you to know that. I want you to know that you're responsible for this feeling of discomfort I have. I'm not used to it. And honestly, I hate it."
I don't know if I'll read next one. I want to know what will happen between Clayton and Sophie considering the book left in a bloody damn cliffhanger -.-' So typical; here I go suffering through a whole book only to get a cliffhanger for an end. I think I deserve a nice end after putting me through another insta-love book........Just sayin'.
Rate: 2.5/3 *CLAYTON SAVED THE DAY* stars.
July 25, 2016
This review might seem harsh... but I found this book really rather disgusting. I kept waiting for the "love interest" aka tortured sociopath who essentially rapes Sophie, bc "she wants it" and "it's what's coming to her" because she acted or dressed in a certain way. I was uncomfortable reading it, and am having a hard time writing a review for it. I thought the premise was intriguing, and the initial set up was good, but the way the story line played out... the wolf was an appropriate nickname for Clayton. Ferocious, taking what he wanted, at whatever cost. Controlling, obsessive. Definitely would not recommend this book. It wasn't hot, it wasn't sexy. Had a lot of promise, but left me feeling gross at the end of it.
January 20, 2020
This is a very good/promising start to the series. Clayton is almost perfect in what I'm looking for in a dominant hero. He's very controlling. I happen to love controlling if it's done right. When I don't love it is when it turns into parental controlling.
There were maybe 2 or 3 times when that happened. They were very small things so nothing to turn me away from Clayton but the fact that they were small things also made me want to tell the guy to chill.
Sophie is a harder to like character for me. Her innocence was too much of a focus in this first book and she had some pretty immature moments. Now saying that, I didn't hate her, but I didn't love her either.
His friends were a nightmare. I don't know why he hangs out with them. I didn't like them. Her friends were much better. I liked that they are part of the story.
Clayton really is the reason to read and keep reading this series. This end on a cliffhanger and if what happened was true, then I would be done, but we all know there is always another side to the story. Based off Clayton's possessiveness, I know this will get worked out.
There were maybe 2 or 3 times when that happened. They were very small things so nothing to turn me away from Clayton but the fact that they were small things also made me want to tell the guy to chill.
Sophie is a harder to like character for me. Her innocence was too much of a focus in this first book and she had some pretty immature moments. Now saying that, I didn't hate her, but I didn't love her either.
His friends were a nightmare. I don't know why he hangs out with them. I didn't like them. Her friends were much better. I liked that they are part of the story.
Clayton really is the reason to read and keep reading this series. This end on a cliffhanger and if what happened was true, then I would be done, but we all know there is always another side to the story. Based off Clayton's possessiveness, I know this will get worked out.
September 8, 2021
Как же я люблю такие «высокоинтеллектуальные» книги с совсем «нешаблонными» героями и «увлекательным» сюжетом.
Я, конечно, бывало, читала всякие NA и «дарки» в разы хуже этой истории, но и эту книгу мне особо похвалить не за что.
Перед нами героиня-девственница (что крайне важно для сюжета, и автор напоминает нам об этом практически в каждом предложении), которой уже двадцать три года, и она уверенна, что умрет старой девой, а также невероятно сексуальный герой-миллиардер с поведением ревнивого неандертальца и абьюзера (мечта любой девушки, во всяком случае, читательниц подобных романов). Что может быть банальнее?
Эти два человека встречаются и начинается просто описание секса (ну, с одной – самой главной - проблемой девушки парень ей помог) и ревностных истерик. Драма-драма. Сюжет-сюжет. Безумно увлекательно.
Софи всю книгу просто ноет о том, как она неуверенна в себе и всего боится. О Клейтоне мы не знаем совершенно ничего, кроме того, что он миллиардер и на десяток лет старше Софи, а также невероятно сексуален и имеет просто омерзительный характер с жуткими перепадами настроения, что почему-то Софи кажется милым. Автор не описывает нам героя от слова «совсем». Когда Клейтон начинает говорить о себе, Софи словно отключается и начинает думать лишь о том, насколько она недостойна такого богатого и успешного мужчины. Поэтому все, что мы знаем, - это нытье Софи (что под конец уже откровенно раздражает).
Ну и написано все это таким языком… Конечно, мысли героини не совсем из серии «Когда я его увидела, у меня затвердели соски и начало пульсировать между ног», но довольно похожи. Миллион: «Я никогда ни кому не чувствовала ничего подобного» и «Что со мной не так?» Просто бесконечное количество.
А от Клейтона мы получаем только грубость, хамство и ревность, а также собственнические фразы типа: «Я не делюсь» (по отношению к девушке, даже имени которой он еще не знает) и «Не забывай, кому ты принадлежишь».
Книга, конечно, довольно старая, и сейчас такое реже в подобных историях встретишь… Но, похоже, читательницам (и героине) по-прежнему нравится такой отвратительный стиль собственнического отношения мужчины к женщине.
В общем, довольно примитивная порнушка для озабоченных домохозяек и подростков.
Итоговая оценка: 4/10
Я, конечно, бывало, читала всякие NA и «дарки» в разы хуже этой истории, но и эту книгу мне особо похвалить не за что.
Перед нами героиня-девственница (что крайне важно для сюжета, и автор напоминает нам об этом практически в каждом предложении), которой уже двадцать три года, и она уверенна, что умрет старой девой, а также невероятно сексуальный герой-миллиардер с поведением ревнивого неандертальца и абьюзера (мечта любой девушки, во всяком случае, читательниц подобных романов). Что может быть банальнее?
Эти два человека встречаются и начинается просто описание секса (ну, с одной – самой главной - проблемой девушки парень ей помог) и ревностных истерик. Драма-драма. Сюжет-сюжет. Безумно увлекательно.
Софи всю книгу просто ноет о том, как она неуверенна в себе и всего боится. О Клейтоне мы не знаем совершенно ничего, кроме того, что он миллиардер и на десяток лет старше Софи, а также невероятно сексуален и имеет просто омерзительный характер с жуткими перепадами настроения, что почему-то Софи кажется милым. Автор не описывает нам героя от слова «совсем». Когда Клейтон начинает говорить о себе, Софи словно отключается и начинает думать лишь о том, насколько она недостойна такого богатого и успешного мужчины. Поэтому все, что мы знаем, - это нытье Софи (что под конец уже откровенно раздражает).
Ну и написано все это таким языком… Конечно, мысли героини не совсем из серии «Когда я его увидела, у меня затвердели соски и начало пульсировать между ног», но довольно похожи. Миллион: «Я никогда ни кому не чувствовала ничего подобного» и «Что со мной не так?» Просто бесконечное количество.
А от Клейтона мы получаем только грубость, хамство и ревность, а также собственнические фразы типа: «Я не делюсь» (по отношению к девушке, даже имени которой он еще не знает) и «Не забывай, кому ты принадлежишь».
Книга, конечно, довольно старая, и сейчас такое реже в подобных историях встретишь… Но, похоже, читательницам (и героине) по-прежнему нравится такой отвратительный стиль собственнического отношения мужчины к женщине.
В общем, довольно примитивная порнушка для озабоченных домохозяек и подростков.
Итоговая оценка: 4/10
October 5, 2015
The story of Sophie and Clayton...I don't even know where to start...what to say...
I am devastated that the book ends in such a terrible cliff-hanger. I NEVER give a 5 star review to a book that has one, but I can't make myself give Mad Love less than 5 stars. It was just that good. I would also like to say that the book was superbly edited. That seems to be a rare find these days.
I just could not put this book down. I spent an entire Saturday afternoon finishing it - knowing that I had SO many projects that were being neglected. It didn't matter. I HAD to finish this book.
Clayton Sinclair is an enigma that you never really understand throughout the book. Sophie Walker is an over protected virginal heroine who falls head over heels in love with him. How could she not? He is gorgeous, rich and an alpha-male deluxe. What else could a girl want? The problem seems to be that there are a lot of other women that want him, too - and he evidently has a pretty sordid past. In the end, it destroys their relationship. The secondary characters are so much fun. Erik, her gay best friend, and his love, Orie are with Sophie throughout her ordeal, and you just can't help but fall in love with them and wish you could be best friends with them, too.
I HIGHLY recommend this book, though you may want to wait until the second book is published to start reading it. My Kindle almost met the wall when it ended.
ARC provided by NetGALLEY and the publisher for an honest review.
I am devastated that the book ends in such a terrible cliff-hanger. I NEVER give a 5 star review to a book that has one, but I can't make myself give Mad Love less than 5 stars. It was just that good. I would also like to say that the book was superbly edited. That seems to be a rare find these days.
I just could not put this book down. I spent an entire Saturday afternoon finishing it - knowing that I had SO many projects that were being neglected. It didn't matter. I HAD to finish this book.
Clayton Sinclair is an enigma that you never really understand throughout the book. Sophie Walker is an over protected virginal heroine who falls head over heels in love with him. How could she not? He is gorgeous, rich and an alpha-male deluxe. What else could a girl want? The problem seems to be that there are a lot of other women that want him, too - and he evidently has a pretty sordid past. In the end, it destroys their relationship. The secondary characters are so much fun. Erik, her gay best friend, and his love, Orie are with Sophie throughout her ordeal, and you just can't help but fall in love with them and wish you could be best friends with them, too.
I HIGHLY recommend this book, though you may want to wait until the second book is published to start reading it. My Kindle almost met the wall when it ended.
ARC provided by NetGALLEY and the publisher for an honest review.
January 20, 2014
There's a new name in hot alphas ladies and it is Clayton Sinclair!! I honestly devoured this book in less than a day! Now, I really really wish I would have known going into this that it is a trilogy and there is no HEA in this book, it's in reality far from that. That being said it is absolutely worth the read! Sophie, is a 23 yr old who changes her major, drops her comfortable boy friend and up a nd goes to the Maldives for a finding her self trip with the help of her best friend and his boyfriend Erik and Orie(who I both absolutely loved!!) did I mention that Sophie is a virgin? In saunters Clayton and let me tell you....wow! Talk about yummy. Clayton is a 34 yr old, mega money British stud who sweeps Sophie off her feet and into his end for some steamy hot love. There are friends of Clayton Eduard, and Elizabeth who I adored and Jon and Jane who I felt less love for, either way there are plenty of dramatic moments...and I mean plenty. Lots of hot sex and romance and then a heart wrenching, please don't let the second book take long to be written ending! If you like the Christian Grey & Damien Starks of the literary world then Clayton and this book are for you!
*Arc courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a honest review*
*Arc courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a honest review*
August 4, 2015
2.5 stars...or 3 stars
Full review to come
Oh hello Cliffhanger, how nice of you to pop out of nowhere...
First off, I was under the impression that this was a standalone. I wouldn't have read this if I knew it was going to be made into a series. Why? 1) I need to cut down on my series, 2) There is no set timeline or hint as to when we will see a book 2, for all we know it might not happen. ugh. I had a hard time connecting with the characters, which made me feel like I was more so forcing myself to finish this book.
Full review to come
Oh hello Cliffhanger, how nice of you to pop out of nowhere...
First off, I was under the impression that this was a standalone. I wouldn't have read this if I knew it was going to be made into a series. Why? 1) I need to cut down on my series, 2) There is no set timeline or hint as to when we will see a book 2, for all we know it might not happen. ugh. I had a hard time connecting with the characters, which made me feel like I was more so forcing myself to finish this book.
February 1, 2021
This series is the whole “young innocent girl ensnares the older dominant playboy”, ala This Man. It should really be a home run for me?? 🤷🏼♀️😍😍😍
What I liked:
- the h is a 23 yr old innocent - she starts out pretty relatable. She’s been sheltered by over protective parents and she in the process of spreading her wings when the books begins
- the H is a 36 - he’s a fabulously rich and bossy bulldozer of a manhoooaar - smexx on a stick and the cocky assholio knows it. 🔥
- the H is very j/p right from the start - protective, possessive, jealous. We get loads of j/p scenes. He even throws a fit about her clothes 😍
- OW/OM drama - if you are like me and live for this kind of drama you are in luck! 😂
.
What I didn’t like:
- the h kept pushing the H away. And while I don’t just want her to lay down and spread her legs as soon as he smiles at her, at some point the hot and cold becomes annoying #stahp She is 23 but acts very juvenile.
- the H kept threatening stuff. He’d be super aggressive... “I always get what I want!” but then he’d back off at the last second. I’m all... “ooooh, this is getting goooood” and then ...... *womp-womp*
- the H would act like he was gonna make her do something, like the bulldozer we were made to think he’d be, but then 🙄 “give her space” 🙄 *sigh* 🥱 So, respectful. 🙄😂 He talks about “rules” but he never tells her what they are or mentions them again. 😕
- the OW/OM drama wasn’t trashy enough for me. 🤷🏼♀️ Yes. I said that. 😬 The OW wasn’t evil enough. I didn’t like that the H just says, “she doesn’t matter” and that’s the end of the drama. I don’t know, again, it felt like the author wanted to go there, but pulled back at the last second instead of letting ‘er rip. 😕
- because the author never went full out on any of the tropes, the angst just never really was. I could tell she was *trying* to build angst, but when you soften everything that adds drama, the angst is just a little wimper. And wimpers are only fun during smexxy times. Everyone knows that. 🙄🤷🏼♀️😂
- this series was just too dang long. I skimmed nearly the entire 2nd book, looking for the h and H to interact. This could easily have been condensed into 1 book of moderate length.
Bottom Line? This is my favorite trope. I finished all 3 books in 2 days. I will likely check out other books to see if she ever *commits*. So, for that reason, it gets ⭐️⭐️⭐️ It’s not gonna change your life, but overall it’s a decent j/p read.
⚠️For the Safety Squad⚠️
- no cheating
- no sharing
- no long separations
- no one sleeps with anyone else
- OW/OM drama - but there really isn’t any doubt who loves whom...
What I liked:
- the h is a 23 yr old innocent - she starts out pretty relatable. She’s been sheltered by over protective parents and she in the process of spreading her wings when the books begins
- the H is a 36 - he’s a fabulously rich and bossy bulldozer of a manhoooaar - smexx on a stick and the cocky assholio knows it. 🔥
- the H is very j/p right from the start - protective, possessive, jealous. We get loads of j/p scenes. He even throws a fit about her clothes 😍
- OW/OM drama - if you are like me and live for this kind of drama you are in luck! 😂
.
What I didn’t like:
- the h kept pushing the H away. And while I don’t just want her to lay down and spread her legs as soon as he smiles at her, at some point the hot and cold becomes annoying #stahp She is 23 but acts very juvenile.
- the H kept threatening stuff. He’d be super aggressive... “I always get what I want!” but then he’d back off at the last second. I’m all... “ooooh, this is getting goooood” and then ...... *womp-womp*
- the H would act like he was gonna make her do something, like the bulldozer we were made to think he’d be, but then 🙄 “give her space” 🙄 *sigh* 🥱 So, respectful. 🙄😂 He talks about “rules” but he never tells her what they are or mentions them again. 😕
- the OW/OM drama wasn’t trashy enough for me. 🤷🏼♀️ Yes. I said that. 😬 The OW wasn’t evil enough. I didn’t like that the H just says, “she doesn’t matter” and that’s the end of the drama. I don’t know, again, it felt like the author wanted to go there, but pulled back at the last second instead of letting ‘er rip. 😕
- because the author never went full out on any of the tropes, the angst just never really was. I could tell she was *trying* to build angst, but when you soften everything that adds drama, the angst is just a little wimper. And wimpers are only fun during smexxy times. Everyone knows that. 🙄🤷🏼♀️😂
- this series was just too dang long. I skimmed nearly the entire 2nd book, looking for the h and H to interact. This could easily have been condensed into 1 book of moderate length.
Bottom Line? This is my favorite trope. I finished all 3 books in 2 days. I will likely check out other books to see if she ever *commits*. So, for that reason, it gets ⭐️⭐️⭐️ It’s not gonna change your life, but overall it’s a decent j/p read.
⚠️For the Safety Squad⚠️
- no cheating
- no sharing
- no long separations
- no one sleeps with anyone else
- OW/OM drama - but there really isn’t any doubt who loves whom...
March 13, 2015
I picked this up on Valentines Day thinking it was going to be a cute romantic read. Boy was I wrong.
To sum it up Sophie needs a change, she has just broken up with her boyfriend, if I recall correctly she's quit her job at a law firm and in order to get away from her ever demanding parents and their persistent questions about the future has booked an island getaway for her and her two best friends.
Of course once they arrive Sophie finds herself face to face with the worlds most attractive man alive. (Who just happens to be an a-hole but we'll get to that later.)
I liked the beginning, her best friends were hilarious and I loved their banter, I loved the island description and yes at first I did like Clayton.
Until, and please stop here if you plan of picking up this book, you realized he was nothing but a manipulating, controlling, egotistical, masochistic, dick.
And what makes it even worse is Sophie allows him to treat her like a piece of meat.
He has known her all of 36 hours before he is telling her what to do, how to do it and what to wear while doing.
At one point in the book she comes out of the bathroom wearing a dress he doesn't deem 'appropriate' and after she refuses to change (the only time in the book she stands up for herself) he spends the rest of the night pouting like a small child. Don't even get me started on what happened after they arrived home.
It was disgusting (and not entirely consensual).
The only ONLY reason I finished this book was to see if by some weird, twisted turn of events the author- I mean Sophie- came to her senses and dumped this guy.
But of course even when she does break up with him it isn't because he treated her poorly or controlled every little thing she did, no it was all over a misunderstanding, and *spoiler alert* it ends in a cliff hanger so there's still hope for them to get back together!
Gag me with a spoon!
Needless to say this book was anything but a cute and romantic read and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
Until next time,
Ginger
December 10, 2014
Colet Abedi was new to me and with my review schedule being quite busy, I almost passed on this. I'm so glad I didn't.
Sophie Walker and her best friends Erik and Obie are off to the Maldives where Sophie hopes to find some kind of message that quitting law school and dumping her long time boyfriend was the right thing to do. Her trip there may have had a rocky start, but things start to look up for her (and Erik and Obie) when she meets Clayton Sinclair.
I connected with Sophie immediately. The poor girl spent a lot of time in her head second guessing every decision she made and some of the decisions made for her. You could tell she was frustrated with her inability to let go and knew she wanted to change and become someone who enjoyed life. Getting a glimpse at her home life, you knew a lot of her problems hinged on her somewhat high strung parents and their need to dictate what was acceptable for her and what wasn't. I could see why she was drawn to Clayton, because he made her forgot about the what ifs and focus on right now...something she'd never been able to do.
If there was one thing I didn't like about Sophie, it was how she didn't let Clayton explain what she saw in the tabloids while at the airport. I could understand her being upset and hurt by what she saw, but she never gave the man (who she said she loved) the chance to explain what she saw. From the preview into book 2, I saw that decision was coming back to bite her in the ass, but I would have hoped Sophie would have thought more of herself and Clayton to talk to him before she threw the baby out with the bathwater.
This was a fun, sexy and easy read. I was desperate for something to lose myself in and this was just what I needed. I know anxiously wait MAD LOVE 2, because I really do need to know what happens when Clayton and Sophie meet again.
Sophie Walker and her best friends Erik and Obie are off to the Maldives where Sophie hopes to find some kind of message that quitting law school and dumping her long time boyfriend was the right thing to do. Her trip there may have had a rocky start, but things start to look up for her (and Erik and Obie) when she meets Clayton Sinclair.
I connected with Sophie immediately. The poor girl spent a lot of time in her head second guessing every decision she made and some of the decisions made for her. You could tell she was frustrated with her inability to let go and knew she wanted to change and become someone who enjoyed life. Getting a glimpse at her home life, you knew a lot of her problems hinged on her somewhat high strung parents and their need to dictate what was acceptable for her and what wasn't. I could see why she was drawn to Clayton, because he made her forgot about the what ifs and focus on right now...something she'd never been able to do.
If there was one thing I didn't like about Sophie, it was how she didn't let Clayton explain what she saw in the tabloids while at the airport. I could understand her being upset and hurt by what she saw, but she never gave the man (who she said she loved) the chance to explain what she saw. From the preview into book 2, I saw that decision was coming back to bite her in the ass, but I would have hoped Sophie would have thought more of herself and Clayton to talk to him before she threw the baby out with the bathwater.
This was a fun, sexy and easy read. I was desperate for something to lose myself in and this was just what I needed. I know anxiously wait MAD LOVE 2, because I really do need to know what happens when Clayton and Sophie meet again.
April 29, 2014
There's something about a romance novel where I just can't get into the lead male character that drives me insane. Because eventually it gets to the point where I come to hating the male lead so much that it completely detracts from the entire story.
And that's exactly what happened with me and Mad Love.
Instead of falling in love with Clayton, I just couldn't get past his manipulativeness and assumed entitlement to anything and everything that his heart desired. Namely Sophie. The way that he acted towards her made her seem like more of an object rather than a person. His possessiveness was not nearly attractive. To be honest, Clayton himself wasn't even attractive.
Which all in all made up a rather unattractive novel.
The plot was more of an un-plot. There wasn't really a lot to it. I didn't really know what it was. Didn't really see it's point either.
And that rather crappy cliffy at the end.
Not impressed.
But I liked Erik and Orie.
And that's about it.
So a star to each of them and we'll call it day.
And that's exactly what happened with me and Mad Love.
Instead of falling in love with Clayton, I just couldn't get past his manipulativeness and assumed entitlement to anything and everything that his heart desired. Namely Sophie. The way that he acted towards her made her seem like more of an object rather than a person. His possessiveness was not nearly attractive. To be honest, Clayton himself wasn't even attractive.
Which all in all made up a rather unattractive novel.
The plot was more of an un-plot. There wasn't really a lot to it. I didn't really know what it was. Didn't really see it's point either.
And that rather crappy cliffy at the end.
Not impressed.
But I liked Erik and Orie.
And that's about it.
So a star to each of them and we'll call it day.
February 22, 2014
Received by NetGalley for an honest review
Ok I really enjoyed this. It's kind of weird how possessive Clayton is from the very beginning. But really he's so HOT that you really don't care. It's such a fantasy being on a beautiful island where you meet the most beautiful man you've ever seen and it's basically love at first sight. The romance is off the charts! I loved the side characters so much I can't wait to read more!!! This book ends with a cliffy but I think it's worth reading now. ;)
Ok I really enjoyed this. It's kind of weird how possessive Clayton is from the very beginning. But really he's so HOT that you really don't care. It's such a fantasy being on a beautiful island where you meet the most beautiful man you've ever seen and it's basically love at first sight. The romance is off the charts! I loved the side characters so much I can't wait to read more!!! This book ends with a cliffy but I think it's worth reading now. ;)
September 11, 2016
*I received a copy via Netgalley in exchange of honest review*
Mad Love.... Mad Story...or drove me Mad Love
I tried. I would have liked the book if the story had been handled differently. What was the problem you may ask? My answer: The main characters.
Sophie Walker is a 23-year-old woman that turned her life upside down. She decided to change and do what she really loves, against her parents’ wishes… good for her. She then goes on vacation to the Maldives… to that famous hotel with the water Huts/bungalows in order to find herself, and forget about her “failures”. She is not alone though, her best friend Erik and his partner Orie go with her. As soon as Sophie arrives, she sees a gorgeous guy and INSTA-LOVE! With sexy English dude Clayton.. *huge eye roll*
You see, insta-love sometimes works for me, there are stories where it is handled in such a way you feel the connection between characters believable; you get to see them together for a few days, even a week and then things progress from there. This book did not do it for me for several reasons and I will try to explain thoroughly.
First of all, Sophie’s personality. Yep, I did not like her; she was weak, annoying, immature, unrealistically naïve; needed too much reassurance therefore insecure as hell and, to top all that she was a virgin. I don’t mean to say that being a virgin at 23 is bad, I know a lot of women like that, even older and they are perfectly fine, works for me, it’s OK. The bad part here is the way it is handled. The first half of the book is centered on EVERYONE saying something about it: her friends, the masseuse/healer, Clayton; she gets embarrassed about it and acts like a freaking teenager around it. I got tired of everyone saying Oh! your innocence, you’re innocent, etc… yadda yadda *yawns*.
Then, the second half of the book centers around her giving up the V-card (which was actually pretty awesome BTW), at least the scene and the way it happens is very romantic, any girl would want her first time like that, I’m sure. But, there is always a big but…. After all that, she kept doubting herself, doubting Clayton; her insecurities obscured her good judgment to a moronic point. And to top it all, the book ends with a cliffhanger in the most ridiculously clichéd way EVER! My everlasting complaint.. Why authors keep giving us IDIOTS for heroines, have they never heard the phrase “ask before you judge”, “don’t jump to conclusions without hearing the facts”, “there is always two sides to a story”. NO, you get the idiot who assumes the worse and does something stupid, idiotic and completely unreal.
Second issue: Clayton a broody, possessive, cryptic, hot and freaking rich character. Falls for Sophie by just looking at her and wants her immediately. He pursues her for a little over 24hrs until she obviously caves. He finds out she is a virgin right from the start and that made me feel uncomfortable. Why? Because after he find out, the I want you behavior felt kind of predatory, stalker-ish and creepy; like I want to deflower the girl and no one will stop me, not even her…. Even if I am 11 years older. He didn’t give away much about himself, his personality was off the charts, I just couldn’t love him…
And then there was this scene, totally unnecessary, totally ridiculous.. I just didn’t fit so soon in the story…exes drama…. *pulls hair* I am not going there aghhh.
The ONLY redeemable quality of this book is the friendship. Erick and Olie are sweethearts and I loved how they cared for Sophie, especially Erick.. I loved their backstory and fell for them instantly. Just near the end, they should have been the voice of reason but hey failed me… it was like WTF?
Anyway, the book has good ratings overall and lots people liked it. It was not my cup of tea, It just felt forced and with an urgency to write about what all others are writing about the rich possessive dude, and the innocent twenty-something…
Mad Love.... Mad Story...or drove me Mad Love
I tried. I would have liked the book if the story had been handled differently. What was the problem you may ask? My answer: The main characters.
Sophie Walker is a 23-year-old woman that turned her life upside down. She decided to change and do what she really loves, against her parents’ wishes… good for her. She then goes on vacation to the Maldives… to that famous hotel with the water Huts/bungalows in order to find herself, and forget about her “failures”. She is not alone though, her best friend Erik and his partner Orie go with her. As soon as Sophie arrives, she sees a gorgeous guy and INSTA-LOVE! With sexy English dude Clayton.. *huge eye roll*
You see, insta-love sometimes works for me, there are stories where it is handled in such a way you feel the connection between characters believable; you get to see them together for a few days, even a week and then things progress from there. This book did not do it for me for several reasons and I will try to explain thoroughly.
First of all, Sophie’s personality. Yep, I did not like her; she was weak, annoying, immature, unrealistically naïve; needed too much reassurance therefore insecure as hell and, to top all that she was a virgin. I don’t mean to say that being a virgin at 23 is bad, I know a lot of women like that, even older and they are perfectly fine, works for me, it’s OK. The bad part here is the way it is handled. The first half of the book is centered on EVERYONE saying something about it: her friends, the masseuse/healer, Clayton; she gets embarrassed about it and acts like a freaking teenager around it. I got tired of everyone saying Oh! your innocence, you’re innocent, etc… yadda yadda *yawns*.
Then, the second half of the book centers around her giving up the V-card (which was actually pretty awesome BTW), at least the scene and the way it happens is very romantic, any girl would want her first time like that, I’m sure. But, there is always a big but…. After all that, she kept doubting herself, doubting Clayton; her insecurities obscured her good judgment to a moronic point. And to top it all, the book ends with a cliffhanger in the most ridiculously clichéd way EVER! My everlasting complaint.. Why authors keep giving us IDIOTS for heroines, have they never heard the phrase “ask before you judge”, “don’t jump to conclusions without hearing the facts”, “there is always two sides to a story”. NO, you get the idiot who assumes the worse and does something stupid, idiotic and completely unreal.
Second issue: Clayton a broody, possessive, cryptic, hot and freaking rich character. Falls for Sophie by just looking at her and wants her immediately. He pursues her for a little over 24hrs until she obviously caves. He finds out she is a virgin right from the start and that made me feel uncomfortable. Why? Because after he find out, the I want you behavior felt kind of predatory, stalker-ish and creepy; like I want to deflower the girl and no one will stop me, not even her…. Even if I am 11 years older. He didn’t give away much about himself, his personality was off the charts, I just couldn’t love him…
And then there was this scene, totally unnecessary, totally ridiculous.. I just didn’t fit so soon in the story…exes drama…. *pulls hair* I am not going there aghhh.
The ONLY redeemable quality of this book is the friendship. Erick and Olie are sweethearts and I loved how they cared for Sophie, especially Erick.. I loved their backstory and fell for them instantly. Just near the end, they should have been the voice of reason but hey failed me… it was like WTF?
Anyway, the book has good ratings overall and lots people liked it. It was not my cup of tea, It just felt forced and with an urgency to write about what all others are writing about the rich possessive dude, and the innocent twenty-something…
March 17, 2014
Rich Alpha male meets virgin in paradise. Sounds cliche, right? Well yeah it does, BUT I loved this story!
Sophie is a sheltered 23 year old who is beautiful, intelligent and a loyal friend. She has an aire of innocence about her that is intriguing. She struggles with fears of taking chances and facing her phobias. But I love how self assured she is about finding her way through her love of art. The spiritual side of this story was a wonderful addition. Finding peace within herself and nature and her relationship with the crystal healer is intriguing. I have a good friend who is very into the energies of crystals...I might need to learn more now!
Clayton is an absurdly rich, smoking hot alpha male in his early 30s. His nickname is the "wolf" because he devours all of the women who fall victim to his charms and find themselves as his prey. He immediately takes notice of Sophie and begins to draw her closer to him (literally). He takes the role of alpha male to the extreme. Jealousy and possessiveness are mild words to describe him. This is where a lot of readers seem to cross the line over to loving Clayton and hating him with a passion...
I am right in the middle. Call me crazy, but I am a sucker for alpha males who know what they want and have all consuming passion about what they have. Clayton may go WAYYYYYY overboard in the alpha male department, but we get glimpses into his life that reveal a little bit of why he might have become who he is.
Sophie + Clayton....yep. Enough said lol. But seriously, there is an intense attraction and explosive sexual chemistry between them. But there is also an emotional connection between them. Clayton helps Sophie face her fears and seems to truly care for her.
The secondary characters rocked. Her best friend Erik and his boyfriend Orie are so much fun and add humor and fun to the book. I would love to have friends like them! Clayton's friends kinda drive me crazy. But there is more to their story I am sure.
The ending. Yep. It sucks. A major cliffhanger that will leave you stalking the author's page for when the next book will release. Sigh......
* I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review (thanks!!!) *
Sophie is a sheltered 23 year old who is beautiful, intelligent and a loyal friend. She has an aire of innocence about her that is intriguing. She struggles with fears of taking chances and facing her phobias. But I love how self assured she is about finding her way through her love of art. The spiritual side of this story was a wonderful addition. Finding peace within herself and nature and her relationship with the crystal healer is intriguing. I have a good friend who is very into the energies of crystals...I might need to learn more now!
Clayton is an absurdly rich, smoking hot alpha male in his early 30s. His nickname is the "wolf" because he devours all of the women who fall victim to his charms and find themselves as his prey. He immediately takes notice of Sophie and begins to draw her closer to him (literally). He takes the role of alpha male to the extreme. Jealousy and possessiveness are mild words to describe him. This is where a lot of readers seem to cross the line over to loving Clayton and hating him with a passion...
I am right in the middle. Call me crazy, but I am a sucker for alpha males who know what they want and have all consuming passion about what they have. Clayton may go WAYYYYYY overboard in the alpha male department, but we get glimpses into his life that reveal a little bit of why he might have become who he is.
Sophie + Clayton....yep. Enough said lol. But seriously, there is an intense attraction and explosive sexual chemistry between them. But there is also an emotional connection between them. Clayton helps Sophie face her fears and seems to truly care for her.
The secondary characters rocked. Her best friend Erik and his boyfriend Orie are so much fun and add humor and fun to the book. I would love to have friends like them! Clayton's friends kinda drive me crazy. But there is more to their story I am sure.
The ending. Yep. It sucks. A major cliffhanger that will leave you stalking the author's page for when the next book will release. Sigh......
* I received an ARC of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review (thanks!!!) *
December 13, 2014
I'm warning you that this book isn't for everyone because there's one thing I'm sure of and it is the curse of instalove. Mad Love has an awful instalove, but the fact that the author has such a cute-sy writing style, it became so much bearable for me. Mad Love is one of those stories that judges love as something more physical than intimate. I felt that it pushed more on the sex side than what it could have been emotionally. But I have no idea how the author made it work, even with all that crap going on, I found sense in the book and didn't at the same time.
I had so much fun reading the book because of the author, she is perfect for romantic comedy and I thought Mad Love was going to one of them, but according to my research and goodreads, this is not a COMEDY. Mad Love doesn't need a label because you'll find out eventually what are the REAL genres for this book and it is not SERIOUS. Mad Love is another fluffy tale about a virgin who just wants to get away from it all. Now, that we're at the topic of virginity, I think we should discuss.
The author had fervently put a a lot of effort in her leading character's virginity. Was it that bad being a virgin? HAHAHAHA Can you tell now why I liked the book? It's just hilarious! For the first few chapters, it was all "I'm a virgin and it sucks. I think I have cobwebs in there somewhere." I'm laughing right now, please make it stop.
In all honesty, I loved the not-so-seriousness in this story, it was a super light read. I would have changed a few things, but I don't think it would match the writing style of Colet Abedi. I truly enjoyed her writing, a lot of people are going to enjoy this because of its fluffiness but a lot of people will hate the instalove. Fair warning, but all in all it was a likeable read.
Want to read
June 22, 2018💝FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (6/22/2018)!💝
Blurb:
23-year-old aspiring artist Sophie Walker can think of no better place than the exotic paradise of the Maldives Islands to escape the wrath of her controlling parents, the monotony of her boring legal work and her passionless boyfriend. With her two best friends along for the ride and to help her find herself again, Sophie is not prepared for the enigmatic Clayton Sinclair. Clayton comes from another world of privilege that seems like a fantasy to Sophie. Can this man introduce her to the passion & seduction she never realized she was desperately searching for? Sophie quickly becomes ensnared in Clayton's seductive web until a shocking treachery makes her question her judgment and actions...
Blurb:
23-year-old aspiring artist Sophie Walker can think of no better place than the exotic paradise of the Maldives Islands to escape the wrath of her controlling parents, the monotony of her boring legal work and her passionless boyfriend. With her two best friends along for the ride and to help her find herself again, Sophie is not prepared for the enigmatic Clayton Sinclair. Clayton comes from another world of privilege that seems like a fantasy to Sophie. Can this man introduce her to the passion & seduction she never realized she was desperately searching for? Sophie quickly becomes ensnared in Clayton's seductive web until a shocking treachery makes her question her judgment and actions...
April 1, 2018
My only excuse for buying it, is that it was free. My only excuse for finishing this cliffhanger, is that it was a train wreck and I couldn't look away. The H is supposed to be super rich, titled, yet he only speaks words of 3 syllables. The h is so exaggerated e.g. spoiled, ungrateful, and quite, quite stupid. All the players in the story are caricatures, completely unlikable and the story relies on ridiculous tropes. I feel as if I lost IQ points reading this. The real shame is that this author is obviously talented, so I hope she writes another book about real people, real situations next time.
January 1, 2015
I totally dig the setting of the story. I was just surprised that the ending is not really an ending because I thought this was a stand alone read. Hopefully, we'll get a preview for the continuation of the story.
*ARC kindly provided by Bird Street Books thru Netgalley.*
*ARC kindly provided by Bird Street Books thru Netgalley.*
July 1, 2021
the guy was so suffocating just let the girl breathe
January 10, 2022
So good. I can’t wait to read more of Sophie and Clayton. 🔥❤️
December 10, 2014
Check out more of my reviews on my blog http://gemmareadstoomuchforittomenorm...
Mad Love is the first book I have read by this author, I can assure you it won’t be the last!!! I was lucky enough to be gifted a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review so here goes....
The name of my blog is Gemma Reads Too Much For It To Be Normal Book Blog so as you can imagine I read a lot of books lol. I’m incredibly lucky that a good 90% of the books I read are gifts from the author, publisher or promotions company. Not all of the books I review are good, some are terrible but on occasion I find an incredible book from an incredible author and it reaffirms why I do this!!!
I LOVED this book, I loved it because it made me smile, it made me laugh out loud and simply because I didn’t want it to end!!!
For any of you out there that have read the ‘This Man’ trilogy from Jodi Ellen Malpas I’m sure you will agree that Jesse is such an asshole that you instantly fall in love with him!!!
Well Clayton just knocked Jesse off my topspot for my favourite Asshole lol!!!
I have fallen totally and completely in love with Clayton, he’s the perfect jerk. He’s domineering, rude, controlling, jealous and over bearing but it’s all the best possible way. In any other character these obnoxious characteristics would be a nightmare. We would class him as a control freak stalker and be urging Sophie to take out a restraining order and run as fast as she could in the other direction!!!
Somehow Colet Abedi has managed to make him sexy and sweet and all those horrible things are now endearing and thoughtful and wonderful!!!!
I’m jealous of Sophie because I would love a man to be so obsessed with me that he was insanely jealous and be so possessive he wanted to claim me as his. This is all daft I’m happily married and if my husband tried any of Clayton’s tricks with me I’d probably laugh at him lol. But I still felt that catch in my chest whilst I read this that said wouldn’t it be wonderful if he wanted me with that intensity!!
OMG when he told her she was his and made he tell him I swooned, I mean I literally felt my knees go weak!!!!
But aside from the heart warming, adorable romance this book is also bloody funny!!! Sophie is hilarious and Erik had me in stitches. Their banter was brilliant and really made me believe that they had a long standing friendship, that meant you can forgo the filter and just be brutally honest.
And Christ the SEX!!! Hot damn its properly sexy, Clayton sex’s Sophie up in every way I was in a permanent state of flush lol!!!
I can’t believe how this book ended seriously OMG!!! (Yes I have used OMG twice in the review (rolls eyes) I’m ashamed of me too!!) And the sneak peak for book two just sent me over the edge!!!
I NEED book two like NOW!!! And I’m in full blow stalker mode; I’ve tweeted Colet Abedi and emailed the promo company. I will track a copy of book two down even if I have to beg for it!!!
Colet if you read this review I’m begging can I have a copy of book #2 to review pretty, pretty, pretty please!!!
This is a brilliant book, its romantic and sexy and funny, I couldn’t put it down and I was gutted when it ended 5 Stars from me.
Mad Love is the first book I have read by this author, I can assure you it won’t be the last!!! I was lucky enough to be gifted a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review so here goes....
The name of my blog is Gemma Reads Too Much For It To Be Normal Book Blog so as you can imagine I read a lot of books lol. I’m incredibly lucky that a good 90% of the books I read are gifts from the author, publisher or promotions company. Not all of the books I review are good, some are terrible but on occasion I find an incredible book from an incredible author and it reaffirms why I do this!!!
I LOVED this book, I loved it because it made me smile, it made me laugh out loud and simply because I didn’t want it to end!!!
For any of you out there that have read the ‘This Man’ trilogy from Jodi Ellen Malpas I’m sure you will agree that Jesse is such an asshole that you instantly fall in love with him!!!
Well Clayton just knocked Jesse off my topspot for my favourite Asshole lol!!!
I have fallen totally and completely in love with Clayton, he’s the perfect jerk. He’s domineering, rude, controlling, jealous and over bearing but it’s all the best possible way. In any other character these obnoxious characteristics would be a nightmare. We would class him as a control freak stalker and be urging Sophie to take out a restraining order and run as fast as she could in the other direction!!!
Somehow Colet Abedi has managed to make him sexy and sweet and all those horrible things are now endearing and thoughtful and wonderful!!!!
I’m jealous of Sophie because I would love a man to be so obsessed with me that he was insanely jealous and be so possessive he wanted to claim me as his. This is all daft I’m happily married and if my husband tried any of Clayton’s tricks with me I’d probably laugh at him lol. But I still felt that catch in my chest whilst I read this that said wouldn’t it be wonderful if he wanted me with that intensity!!
OMG when he told her she was his and made he tell him I swooned, I mean I literally felt my knees go weak!!!!
But aside from the heart warming, adorable romance this book is also bloody funny!!! Sophie is hilarious and Erik had me in stitches. Their banter was brilliant and really made me believe that they had a long standing friendship, that meant you can forgo the filter and just be brutally honest.
And Christ the SEX!!! Hot damn its properly sexy, Clayton sex’s Sophie up in every way I was in a permanent state of flush lol!!!
I can’t believe how this book ended seriously OMG!!! (Yes I have used OMG twice in the review (rolls eyes) I’m ashamed of me too!!) And the sneak peak for book two just sent me over the edge!!!
I NEED book two like NOW!!! And I’m in full blow stalker mode; I’ve tweeted Colet Abedi and emailed the promo company. I will track a copy of book two down even if I have to beg for it!!!
Colet if you read this review I’m begging can I have a copy of book #2 to review pretty, pretty, pretty please!!!
This is a brilliant book, its romantic and sexy and funny, I couldn’t put it down and I was gutted when it ended 5 Stars from me.
April 9, 2015
** THIS BOOK WAS PROVIDED TO ME BY THE PUBLISHER FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
This was an average read for me. Not bad, but not amazing. It definitely had it's strong points, but also a few weaker points. While I appreciate a good dominant male character, I found myself a little more than frustrated with Clayton, as well as Sophie.
Mad Love is about a young woman, Sophie, and her attempt to get from under her parents' thumbs and live her own life. She breaks up with her boyfriend (that was parental-approved) and takes a trip with her best friend and his boyfriend to get away and discover herself. While on that journey, she meets the charming, cocky, attractive Clayton Sinclair.
Most, if not all of this, was predictable from the beginning, which isn't a bad thing at all. There were really great moments throughout this book and in particular, on the part of Erik and Obie. I loved them! Abedi did a great job with those characters.
She did a decent job with Sophie too. I really liked how intelligent she was, mainly due to her law background. But she knew how to stand up for herself - for the most part. She was so insecure though. I mean, really insecure. It got annoying. Not saying that it wasn't realistic, but that's not my thing. Especially if it remains throughout the entirety of the book.
Clayton Sinclair, he's a good guy. That is obvious. But he's too dominant for me. Too controlling. And Sophie is the perfect person for a guy like him, which is why I thought they worked well together -- personality wise. There were moments in the book where I just felt he was being a little too secretive, thus feeding into the already insecure Sophie. It was maddening!
I did enjoy how their relationship came together in the end. They were an adorable couple working through their feelings for one another, but the ending? Screwed me up! There is another book coming, so I know there will be some sort of resolution, but for now? With the ending I was given? I need to know what happens!
It sounds like I didn't like the book. That's not true. I will say it was an average read. Don't expect any huge revelations or life-changing happenings in this book. They're not there. But you can expect a decent story with characters that are real and honest. In the end, isn't that all you can ask for?
This was an average read for me. Not bad, but not amazing. It definitely had it's strong points, but also a few weaker points. While I appreciate a good dominant male character, I found myself a little more than frustrated with Clayton, as well as Sophie.
Mad Love is about a young woman, Sophie, and her attempt to get from under her parents' thumbs and live her own life. She breaks up with her boyfriend (that was parental-approved) and takes a trip with her best friend and his boyfriend to get away and discover herself. While on that journey, she meets the charming, cocky, attractive Clayton Sinclair.
Most, if not all of this, was predictable from the beginning, which isn't a bad thing at all. There were really great moments throughout this book and in particular, on the part of Erik and Obie. I loved them! Abedi did a great job with those characters.
She did a decent job with Sophie too. I really liked how intelligent she was, mainly due to her law background. But she knew how to stand up for herself - for the most part. She was so insecure though. I mean, really insecure. It got annoying. Not saying that it wasn't realistic, but that's not my thing. Especially if it remains throughout the entirety of the book.
Clayton Sinclair, he's a good guy. That is obvious. But he's too dominant for me. Too controlling. And Sophie is the perfect person for a guy like him, which is why I thought they worked well together -- personality wise. There were moments in the book where I just felt he was being a little too secretive, thus feeding into the already insecure Sophie. It was maddening!
I did enjoy how their relationship came together in the end. They were an adorable couple working through their feelings for one another, but the ending? Screwed me up! There is another book coming, so I know there will be some sort of resolution, but for now? With the ending I was given? I need to know what happens!
It sounds like I didn't like the book. That's not true. I will say it was an average read. Don't expect any huge revelations or life-changing happenings in this book. They're not there. But you can expect a decent story with characters that are real and honest. In the end, isn't that all you can ask for?
December 12, 2014
** TARA'S REVIEW **
3 Private Island Stars
Sophie Walker needs an escape from her controlling parents and sets on a mission to find herself in the Maldives. With her gay best friends in tow, she sets out to find herself in beauty of a tropical island. When she meets Clayton Sinclair, she bites off more then she can chew.
~~~~~~~~~~
Let me start this review by saying there is a major cliffhanger. Had I known I may have passed on this as the release date for the next part is not yet revealed, although at the end Chapter One of the sequel is provided.
I loved the thought concept behind this book, a virgin on a tropical island meets a hot rich alpha male, but the delivery of the storyline just did not fully work for me. I found it to be very rushed and the natural progression of their interlude seemed a little forced. I felt that the main female character was not comfortable with where things were leading until the very end. And the main male character was too possessive right from the start. There were aspects of the story that were unbelievable and I had a hard time moving past.
At the same time there were a lot of parts of the book that I loved. The description of the sex scenes were pretty steamy and I really felt the passion in their kisses. Once things heated up for these two, the writing really picked up.
"His tongue. Inside me. Deep. Licking. Sucking. I think I'm going to explode from the sheer ecstasy."
This was a pretty quick read and for the most part kept me engaged throughout. The abrupt ending and cliffhanger however really left me with a sour taste in my mouth. This was originally released in March of 2014, and there has yet to be a release date of the next book shared which kinda stinks because I would have loved to see how this story played out in the end.
**A gifted copy was received by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review**
3 Private Island Stars
Sophie Walker needs an escape from her controlling parents and sets on a mission to find herself in the Maldives. With her gay best friends in tow, she sets out to find herself in beauty of a tropical island. When she meets Clayton Sinclair, she bites off more then she can chew.
~~~~~~~~~~
Let me start this review by saying there is a major cliffhanger. Had I known I may have passed on this as the release date for the next part is not yet revealed, although at the end Chapter One of the sequel is provided.
I loved the thought concept behind this book, a virgin on a tropical island meets a hot rich alpha male, but the delivery of the storyline just did not fully work for me. I found it to be very rushed and the natural progression of their interlude seemed a little forced. I felt that the main female character was not comfortable with where things were leading until the very end. And the main male character was too possessive right from the start. There were aspects of the story that were unbelievable and I had a hard time moving past.
At the same time there were a lot of parts of the book that I loved. The description of the sex scenes were pretty steamy and I really felt the passion in their kisses. Once things heated up for these two, the writing really picked up.
"His tongue. Inside me. Deep. Licking. Sucking. I think I'm going to explode from the sheer ecstasy."
This was a pretty quick read and for the most part kept me engaged throughout. The abrupt ending and cliffhanger however really left me with a sour taste in my mouth. This was originally released in March of 2014, and there has yet to be a release date of the next book shared which kinda stinks because I would have loved to see how this story played out in the end.
**A gifted copy was received by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review**
May 23, 2015
When you feel like your life is caving in, what do you do? 23 year old Sophie Walker decides to take a trip to the Maldives Islands with her best friend and his boyfriend. Sophie is an aspiring artist, much to her parents dismay, and breaks off her relationship to the "perfect" choice in her parents eyes. She wants more, a passionate lover to make her feel cherished and desired, and to finally breathe in her life. What our virginal Sophie doesn't expect is sin itself bulldozing into her life. Clayton Sinclair is sin embodied from his looks, his British accent and his demanding nature. He's worked hard to get to where he is and enjoys spending his money any way he sees fit. What Clayton isn't fond of is the word no. He always gets what he wants and he's set his sights on Sophie. Their attraction is undeniable, but will Clayton's secrets come to ruin what seems like a beautiful relationship?
I loved the book, the first one in this new series by Abedi. Sophie always tried to give into what others want at the cost of losing her own desires and finally stands up for what she wants. She doesn't want a passionless boyfriend or to be a lawyer and join her father's firm. Her escape to the Maldives Islands is the way to find herself and she finds the sensual devil Clayton Sinclair. Clayton is a complex character, a bit controlling with a good heart. He protects what he claims as his and is moody and secretive enough to keep you guessing. The character dynamic was interesting, the plot leaves you with a lot of emotions because the book is a cliffhanger, and the writing is great! I'd recommend this, but only if you don't mind waiting to know what happens next as the second book has not been released.
I loved the book, the first one in this new series by Abedi. Sophie always tried to give into what others want at the cost of losing her own desires and finally stands up for what she wants. She doesn't want a passionless boyfriend or to be a lawyer and join her father's firm. Her escape to the Maldives Islands is the way to find herself and she finds the sensual devil Clayton Sinclair. Clayton is a complex character, a bit controlling with a good heart. He protects what he claims as his and is moody and secretive enough to keep you guessing. The character dynamic was interesting, the plot leaves you with a lot of emotions because the book is a cliffhanger, and the writing is great! I'd recommend this, but only if you don't mind waiting to know what happens next as the second book has not been released.
January 31, 2014
I understand that this is no HEA and I find it kind of frustrating in the fact that authors are doing this. It is not really the HEA , but the fact that really just break up a book into three pieces. I know some people like this in books they read the suspense and all, but I find it not in the authors or publishers best interest that the next book is not available to read. Now, having said that...I wonder if they realize that by waiting to release the next in the series that we readers decide or we forget to get the release of the new book when it comes out.
...well ok enough of that....
I did enjoy this read and I liked the banter between Erik and Orie. The self esteem issues with Sphie were okay because we all know that women have issues and have all thought those things at one time or another. no matter how beautiful the woman may be. Now, the fact that she cuts Clayton off completely when things happen is a part that I did not like. I felt like there should have been some pull towards each other to have their sides be told and let the chips fall where they may so to speak. You have all that chemistry then poof gone! Not worth the effort to continue the pull even during a fallout or misunderstanding as I have a feeling this will be, seems off to me. I am sure it will continue in the next book, but would have liked to have seen it here. Three and a half stars is my vote....enjoyed it none the less and will wait to see how this story plays out.
I received this ARC from the author via Net Galley For my honest review. Thanks Net Galley!
...well ok enough of that....
I did enjoy this read and I liked the banter between Erik and Orie. The self esteem issues with Sphie were okay because we all know that women have issues and have all thought those things at one time or another. no matter how beautiful the woman may be. Now, the fact that she cuts Clayton off completely when things happen is a part that I did not like. I felt like there should have been some pull towards each other to have their sides be told and let the chips fall where they may so to speak. You have all that chemistry then poof gone! Not worth the effort to continue the pull even during a fallout or misunderstanding as I have a feeling this will be, seems off to me. I am sure it will continue in the next book, but would have liked to have seen it here. Three and a half stars is my vote....enjoyed it none the less and will wait to see how this story plays out.
I received this ARC from the author via Net Galley For my honest review. Thanks Net Galley!
March 5, 2014
Wow!!! I honestly enjoyed this book to max..Sophie is a 23 year old girl who embarks on a dream journey along with her two gay best friends, (who were the funniest people on the planet. Orie and Erick really made this book special) with the sole intention of finding herself. Breaking up with her only boyfriend, still a virgin she sets off. Once in Male, she sees Clayton and he sees her. Its lust at first sight. Clayton is a dream. He is extremely rich, handsome to no description and possesive to just the right point. He is perfect. Once the romance begins Sophie finds out things about him that she doesn't like but is willing to put up with. She tries to have a back bone, but that's to no avail,,LOL.. This book made me want to take a vacation to Maldive Island, I just need my two gay best friends,,LOL..The only thing I didn't like about this first book, was the ending. Even though there will be another book, the first book ends as if Clayton is not going to go after Sophie, after proclaiming how munch he needed her in his life. The fact that he didn't clarify the magazine cover to Sohpie was horrible. So what if she didn't want to pick up his phone calls, he could have texted her, sent her an email something, I mean I thought he didn't take no for answer, but then at the end he does?! What was that about. I'm dying to know what will happen between them and I really hope they end up together and he goes after her. I truly enjoyed this love story and was somewhat sad to see it end the way it did. It is a total cliffhanger. Can't wait for the next book.
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