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Dark Grove Plantation #1
Awakened
When Holly’s boyfriend Brad finds her stash of BDSM erotica, she is surprised that he doesn’t react with disgust. In fact, she is downright shocked when he offers to take her to Dark Grove Plantation, an exclusive, opulent BDSM club. Despite her niggling fears, Holly desires to indulge in her fantasies, and she agrees to go with him. Only Brad isn’t what she thinks, and he reveals his true nature when they get to the club.
Holly begins thinking that the evening has been a bust, so she is delighted to encounter Holden, a dark and mysterious Dom who captivates her instantly. She is thrilled that he wants to introduce her to the club and to the wonders of BDSM.
But Brad isn’t too pleased when he finds out that Holly is with another man. Will she fulfill her submissive fantasies with Holden or will Brad ruin everything? Find out in Awakened, the first short story in the new Dark Grove Plantation series!
Approx. 10,000 Words
Warning: This story contains graphic scenes of a sexual nature involving BDSM.
Holly begins thinking that the evening has been a bust, so she is delighted to encounter Holden, a dark and mysterious Dom who captivates her instantly. She is thrilled that he wants to introduce her to the club and to the wonders of BDSM.
But Brad isn’t too pleased when he finds out that Holly is with another man. Will she fulfill her submissive fantasies with Holden or will Brad ruin everything? Find out in Awakened, the first short story in the new Dark Grove Plantation series!
Approx. 10,000 Words
Warning: This story contains graphic scenes of a sexual nature involving BDSM.
36 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
219 people are currently reading
467 people want to read
About the author
Julia Sykes
138 books2,024 followersJulia Sykes is a USA Today bestselling author of edgy, emotional romance. When she's not writing, she's usually reading.
Other than reading, her obsessions include iced coffee, unicorns, charcuterie, aged Manchego cheese (or any cheese, really), and fancy dresses.
An American expat, Julia now lives in her adopted, beloved home of York, England. Most days, you can find her wandering the cobbled streets and daydreaming about her next novel.
Other than reading, her obsessions include iced coffee, unicorns, charcuterie, aged Manchego cheese (or any cheese, really), and fancy dresses.
An American expat, Julia now lives in her adopted, beloved home of York, England. Most days, you can find her wandering the cobbled streets and daydreaming about her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
July 22, 2017
Earlier this year I read Dark Lessons by Julia Sykes and was instantly left wanting to read more of her work. I went ahead and brought her Impossible series, the entire notion intriguing me. Another series, her Dark Grove Plantation series, also grabbed my attention. I looked everywhere for Awakened, Taken, and Broken, but I could not find them. I found out they were being extensively re-written and re-titled, and I instantly put them on my to-read list. Holden is the first of these re-written and re-titled books.
In all honesty, I’m not usually a big lover of stories of this length. I have a serious love-hate relationship with short stories. That being said, I really enjoyed this one. I had a couple of problems with this, but for the most part it was a wonderful read.
I’ll begin with the good.
The characters were great. Quickly we fall in love with both of them, and the chemistry between them was wonderful. Told from alternating points of view, we get to see inside the minds of both the characters. They’re two very different characters, but they go so well together.
The romance was swoony worthy. It was steamy, exactly as you hope for from a Julia Sykes read. As I said, the characters have real chemistry, and this always helps with ensuring the steamy scenes are great. Not to mention, Julia Sykes simply seems to know how to write the hot stuff.
The storyline was interesting. It’s a very simple tale, but it is done so well. There’s nothing overly complex, meaning you’re pulled straight into the story, and your attention is held throughout. For such a short story, there is a lot to be found in this one. Plus, it leaves you curious about the stories that are to come in the future books.
Then the things that left me feeling somewhat unsure.
It’s a case of instalove. I’m not a fan of this, and cannot help but roll my eyes at the speed of the story. Everything took place within a matter of days. For me, that is not enough time for emotions to develop. Those who enjoy instalove will like this element of the story, but those who are not fans will be less than pleased.
The final chapter could have been more powerful. I enjoyed the way the story came together, I enjoy the events, yet the ending seemed to come about far too quickly. There was the potential for lots of emotions, but it didn’t quite hit the high notes it could have.
Overall, I enjoyed this one. I’ll certainly be reading the next Dark Grove Plantation story – I already have Brandon sitting on my Kindle – as this series promises to be a lot of fun. Well worth the read for anyone looking for a quick steamy read.
In all honesty, I’m not usually a big lover of stories of this length. I have a serious love-hate relationship with short stories. That being said, I really enjoyed this one. I had a couple of problems with this, but for the most part it was a wonderful read.
I’ll begin with the good.
The characters were great. Quickly we fall in love with both of them, and the chemistry between them was wonderful. Told from alternating points of view, we get to see inside the minds of both the characters. They’re two very different characters, but they go so well together.
The romance was swoony worthy. It was steamy, exactly as you hope for from a Julia Sykes read. As I said, the characters have real chemistry, and this always helps with ensuring the steamy scenes are great. Not to mention, Julia Sykes simply seems to know how to write the hot stuff.
The storyline was interesting. It’s a very simple tale, but it is done so well. There’s nothing overly complex, meaning you’re pulled straight into the story, and your attention is held throughout. For such a short story, there is a lot to be found in this one. Plus, it leaves you curious about the stories that are to come in the future books.
Then the things that left me feeling somewhat unsure.
It’s a case of instalove. I’m not a fan of this, and cannot help but roll my eyes at the speed of the story. Everything took place within a matter of days. For me, that is not enough time for emotions to develop. Those who enjoy instalove will like this element of the story, but those who are not fans will be less than pleased.
The final chapter could have been more powerful. I enjoyed the way the story came together, I enjoy the events, yet the ending seemed to come about far too quickly. There was the potential for lots of emotions, but it didn’t quite hit the high notes it could have.
Overall, I enjoyed this one. I’ll certainly be reading the next Dark Grove Plantation story – I already have Brandon sitting on my Kindle – as this series promises to be a lot of fun. Well worth the read for anyone looking for a quick steamy read.
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February 23, 2021💝 FREE on Amazon today (4/22/2018)!💝
Blurb:
One look at the gorgeous, curvy brunette standing alone at BDSM club Dark Grove Plantation, and I know she’s mine. She thinks that her desires are twisted and wrong, but I intend to show her how good my harsher methods of seduction can feel. It’s in my nature to dominate, to claim. I have every intention of claiming Holly, body and soul. And if her bastard ex tries to come back for her, he’ll find out just how harsh I can be when someone threatens what’s mine.
Note: An earlier version of this story was released under the title Awakened. It has been extensively re-written as Holden.
Blurb:
One look at the gorgeous, curvy brunette standing alone at BDSM club Dark Grove Plantation, and I know she’s mine. She thinks that her desires are twisted and wrong, but I intend to show her how good my harsher methods of seduction can feel. It’s in my nature to dominate, to claim. I have every intention of claiming Holly, body and soul. And if her bastard ex tries to come back for her, he’ll find out just how harsh I can be when someone threatens what’s mine.
Note: An earlier version of this story was released under the title Awakened. It has been extensively re-written as Holden.
September 11, 2018
Ahhhhh...the rarity of a novella that actually has a bit of a story. Quick, a little smutty, a nice lil break from the heavy stuff!!
July 4, 2017
4.5 stars. I love, love Julia Sykes books, they are so damn delicious....this was no exception. These 2 right from the start, so much hot as hell chemistry. Holden is so bold and she's so sweet, it really is the perfect combination.
Holly wants to go to a BDSM club with her then boyfriend of a few months, to explore that side of her. Her boyfriend doesn't understand it or handle it well, so he breaks up with her there. His loss is Holden's gain and he doesn't waste time.
These two have a delicious night at her house, then has a sweet date night. They are just so in sync and smitten with each other. It was nice to hear that this was not the norm for Holden, which we learn from 2 of the supporting characters, Gwen & Ella....those 2 were awesome and I hope they both get their own books.
Naturally the ex-boyfriend tries to cause some trouble, but since Holden is a cop....he shuts that shit down pretty quick.
Overall this was a great, short read with delicious chemistry and insta-love.....loved this book.
Holly wants to go to a BDSM club with her then boyfriend of a few months, to explore that side of her. Her boyfriend doesn't understand it or handle it well, so he breaks up with her there. His loss is Holden's gain and he doesn't waste time.
These two have a delicious night at her house, then has a sweet date night. They are just so in sync and smitten with each other. It was nice to hear that this was not the norm for Holden, which we learn from 2 of the supporting characters, Gwen & Ella....those 2 were awesome and I hope they both get their own books.
Naturally the ex-boyfriend tries to cause some trouble, but since Holden is a cop....he shuts that shit down pretty quick.
Overall this was a great, short read with delicious chemistry and insta-love.....loved this book.
June 29, 2017
This is a short quick read with a lot of sexual tension and insta-love.
Holly has expressed her desires to experience being dominated sexually to her boyfriend, Brad. So the next date they go to the Dark Grove Plantation, a private BDSM club. They arrive and gain admittance and are in awe of what they observe once inside. After introductions are made and a misunderstanding, Brad becomes angry demanding Holly leave with him and she refuses to go. Brad then tells her, "We're done" and walks off.
Holly goes to the bar and orders a drink, senses someone behind her, when she hears, a question. She turns and sees a man that she clearly understands he's Dominant. He tells her his name is Holden and she tells him her name is Holly. Holden recognizes her as a submissive and an innocent of being a submissive
Holden has been looking for a submissive has been unsuccessful in finding one, until now.
This is a very quick story of two people who want to fulfill a need for each other and in doing so they find love.
Holly has expressed her desires to experience being dominated sexually to her boyfriend, Brad. So the next date they go to the Dark Grove Plantation, a private BDSM club. They arrive and gain admittance and are in awe of what they observe once inside. After introductions are made and a misunderstanding, Brad becomes angry demanding Holly leave with him and she refuses to go. Brad then tells her, "We're done" and walks off.
Holly goes to the bar and orders a drink, senses someone behind her, when she hears, a question. She turns and sees a man that she clearly understands he's Dominant. He tells her his name is Holden and she tells him her name is Holly. Holden recognizes her as a submissive and an innocent of being a submissive
Holden has been looking for a submissive has been unsuccessful in finding one, until now.
This is a very quick story of two people who want to fulfill a need for each other and in doing so they find love.
September 17, 2018
Quick sexy read!!
Of course this is so short that you can't really have a lot of character building in it but it comes across well and was a good quick read!
Of course this is so short that you can't really have a lot of character building in it but it comes across well and was a good quick read!
June 29, 2017
Insta-love BDSM style!
Holden is a short and sexy love story. Julia Sykes does not hold back on the heat.
Holly initially attends the Dark Grove Plantation BDSM club with her boyfriend Brad until he has a few too many drinks and dumps her. This opens up an opportunity for Holden to swoop in and take charge of Holly's submission. However there's one lingering issue, Brad and his bruised ego don't go away quietly.
I loved this quick, sexy insta-love story. 5 Stars
Holden is a short and sexy love story. Julia Sykes does not hold back on the heat.
Holly initially attends the Dark Grove Plantation BDSM club with her boyfriend Brad until he has a few too many drinks and dumps her. This opens up an opportunity for Holden to swoop in and take charge of Holly's submission. However there's one lingering issue, Brad and his bruised ego don't go away quietly.
I loved this quick, sexy insta-love story. 5 Stars
June 30, 2017
Holden by Julia Sykes was a sexy read. Holly and Holden had instant chemistry, but because the story was too short it was unbelievable. She went from dating her boyfriend for months, to breaking up with him in the club and making out with a DOM 5 minutes later and bringing him home.
I usually love books by Julia but this one didn't do it for me. The Sex scene were hot but the rest of the book was a little lacking.
I usually love books by Julia but this one didn't do it for me. The Sex scene were hot but the rest of the book was a little lacking.
January 29, 2022
Holly & Holben
Loved, loved, loved this book. Holden and Holly were awesome, Holly's ex even gave me chills he was a real creeper. Couldn't put it down, i really enjoyed reading this book.
Loved, loved, loved this book. Holden and Holly were awesome, Holly's ex even gave me chills he was a real creeper. Couldn't put it down, i really enjoyed reading this book.
September 1, 2017
This was a short but very entertaining novella and it opened the door for future books about the supporting characters. Holly has been working her ass off studying to be a veterinarian and working at a coffee shop. She always had dark fantasies but she kept them to herself and only read about them. Her boyfriend, Brad found her e-reader and she was surprised when he wasn't horrified by her desire. He once again surprises her when he suggests they go to Dark Grove Plantation, which is a BDSM club. When they arrive at the club Holly is shocked when Brad acts like a misogynistic asshole and she sees his true nature. They break up and she heads to the bar to watch everyone in the club because she's curious. Holden notices Holly standing there all by herself and he recognizes her innocence. The two of them have instant chemistry and he shows her how amazing it is to submit herself to him.
July 2, 2017
I received this ARC in exchange for and honest review
Well talk about a hot and steamy insta-love. Just what I have been looking for! Julia Sykes is another newbie for me and once again I was not disappointed. Holden is a re-release from a different version written by this author, but if the original was half as good as this then you are not missing out on anything. If you did happen to read the original version be sure to check this one out!!!
The steamy novella is the first in a series focused on the Dark Grove Plantation. The Dark Grove Plantation is an exclusive BDSM Club that not just anyone is able to get into. Holly believes when her boyfriend suggest that they take a visit there he is finally ready to dominate her in the bedroom they way she has always desired, but what should have been a night of passion turned into a night of nothing but pain. That was until she met Holden. Once Holden set eyes on Holly he knew that she would be his and he was going to do anything he to make sure that happened. In or outside of the Dark Grove Plantation Holden desires to take care of Holly, the only question remaining is will she let him.
Sykes does not disappoint with this novella. She gives us the domineering alpha male of our dreams and creates his perfect submissive in Holly's character. Her sex scenes are for the record books, but she is always able to create an interesting story and background for both characters that tugs at the heart-strings. Even with its ups and down Holden and Holly get the Happily Ever after they both desire.
I for one am waiting very impatiently for the next installment in this series. This hot and steamy insta-love with a BDSM premise is one for the record books.
Well talk about a hot and steamy insta-love. Just what I have been looking for! Julia Sykes is another newbie for me and once again I was not disappointed. Holden is a re-release from a different version written by this author, but if the original was half as good as this then you are not missing out on anything. If you did happen to read the original version be sure to check this one out!!!
The steamy novella is the first in a series focused on the Dark Grove Plantation. The Dark Grove Plantation is an exclusive BDSM Club that not just anyone is able to get into. Holly believes when her boyfriend suggest that they take a visit there he is finally ready to dominate her in the bedroom they way she has always desired, but what should have been a night of passion turned into a night of nothing but pain. That was until she met Holden. Once Holden set eyes on Holly he knew that she would be his and he was going to do anything he to make sure that happened. In or outside of the Dark Grove Plantation Holden desires to take care of Holly, the only question remaining is will she let him.
Sykes does not disappoint with this novella. She gives us the domineering alpha male of our dreams and creates his perfect submissive in Holly's character. Her sex scenes are for the record books, but she is always able to create an interesting story and background for both characters that tugs at the heart-strings. Even with its ups and down Holden and Holly get the Happily Ever after they both desire.
I for one am waiting very impatiently for the next installment in this series. This hot and steamy insta-love with a BDSM premise is one for the record books.
June 29, 2017
I'v read a few of Julia Sykes books and I know I'll be reading more especially if it involves characters from the Dark Grove Plantation . Love BDSM reads and when they done write I just in love with the story , from the first page I was hooked didn't know how it was going to go was so happy with the way it turned out . Holly is a new sub she's looking for the right man to dominate her and when she meets this sexy Holden he is just the dom shes looking for . The sex is HOT and STEAMY you will not be disappointed one click right away people . Can't wait to read the next one
copy provided for honest review
****************************************
hero = 10 heroine = 10 secondary characters = 10
Chemistry = 10 steam = 9 romance = 6 humor = 4
darkness level = 5 enjoyment = 10 angst = 3
action = 3 story line = 10 mystery = 3
character development = 10 pacing = 10 Plot = 9
cover = 10 stars = 5 author = 8
would I recommend this book = yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
copy provided for honest review
****************************************
hero = 10 heroine = 10 secondary characters = 10
Chemistry = 10 steam = 9 romance = 6 humor = 4
darkness level = 5 enjoyment = 10 angst = 3
action = 3 story line = 10 mystery = 3
character development = 10 pacing = 10 Plot = 9
cover = 10 stars = 5 author = 8
would I recommend this book = yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
June 28, 2017
Holly has been brought up to be a proper Southern lady but lately she has been reading books about BDSM and really wants to see what it is about. Her boyfriend Brad invites her to go to the Dark Grove Plantation BDSM club. But will they both interpret BDSM the same way?
Holden spots Holly and knows instantly that she is who he has been waiting for. But will he get a chance to let her know?
As tensions mount between Holly and Brad will Holden come to Holly's rescue? Will Brad be able to let Holly go?
This was a quick read and full of hot tension and sex!
I liked that Holly was naive to a certain degree and honestly torn about how she felt about going into a BDSM club. She was excited and nervous at the same time but soon realized how differently she and Brad viewed it.
Holden was somewhat of a savior for Holly and then he also became her teacher. Their time together was definitely hot!! I was glad that he was there for Holly when she needed it the most!
Brad definitely got what he deserved in the end!
Holden spots Holly and knows instantly that she is who he has been waiting for. But will he get a chance to let her know?
As tensions mount between Holly and Brad will Holden come to Holly's rescue? Will Brad be able to let Holly go?
This was a quick read and full of hot tension and sex!
I liked that Holly was naive to a certain degree and honestly torn about how she felt about going into a BDSM club. She was excited and nervous at the same time but soon realized how differently she and Brad viewed it.
Holden was somewhat of a savior for Holly and then he also became her teacher. Their time together was definitely hot!! I was glad that he was there for Holly when she needed it the most!
Brad definitely got what he deserved in the end!
June 30, 2017
I’m a bit on the fence with this one. I really wanted to love it and I normally love the complex alpha heroes that Ms. Sykes writes and this one definitely was 100% alpha. Holly was sweet and innocent, but unfortunately, she seemed to make a questionable decision when she left the club and let Holden not only take her home, but also come inside to finish what they started at the club. A guy she just met and who she barely knows his name. It was definitely a short and steamy read and it was a good insta-love story, but I wanted them to be a bit more developed. Don’t get me wrong - it is a great story and you shouldn’t miss it! Just be in the mood for a quick and slightly over-the-top insta-love story when you do.
Hero 4 stars / Heroine 4 stars / Steam 5 stars / Plot 3 stars / Overall 4 Stars
Keys: Dual POV, MF, BDSM, Quick read, Insta-love
#MSBB - I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Hero 4 stars / Heroine 4 stars / Steam 5 stars / Plot 3 stars / Overall 4 Stars
Keys: Dual POV, MF, BDSM, Quick read, Insta-love
#MSBB - I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
July 2, 2017
Holden - Dark Grove Plantation by Julia Sykes
****4 1/2 Sizzling Stars
Holly has always held deep feelings towards the kinkier side of sex but her boyfriend Brett is the epitome of the perfect, regular kind of missionary boyfriend. After Brett uncovers Holly's proclivities, they embark on a visit to Dark Grove BDSM club but it doesn't go according to plan and Holly is introduced to a Dom, Holden.
Immediate sparks fly between them but her relationship with Brett quickly unravels as Brett's jealousy turns him into a man that Holly doesn't want to be with.
A fast and sexy read, not overly into the kink but some serious heat between the characters. Moments of humour but more of passion and explosive sexual encounters, sure to heat up your kindle.
I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the next in the series.
****4 1/2 Sizzling Stars
Holly has always held deep feelings towards the kinkier side of sex but her boyfriend Brett is the epitome of the perfect, regular kind of missionary boyfriend. After Brett uncovers Holly's proclivities, they embark on a visit to Dark Grove BDSM club but it doesn't go according to plan and Holly is introduced to a Dom, Holden.
Immediate sparks fly between them but her relationship with Brett quickly unravels as Brett's jealousy turns him into a man that Holly doesn't want to be with.
A fast and sexy read, not overly into the kink but some serious heat between the characters. Moments of humour but more of passion and explosive sexual encounters, sure to heat up your kindle.
I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the next in the series.
June 29, 2017
Holden: Dark Grove Plantation 1 by Julia Sykes
### 5 Hashtags ###
OOooooh Holden and Holly ! I want more so much more, I didn't realise this was a short book, but even so it was seriously steaming hot. I connected really well with the characters and loved their journey. I would have liked much much more from their story and even more from the Dark Grove Plantation BDSM club.
I'm now eagerly awaiting Ella and Brandon's story!
June 30, 2017
4.5 STARS
Holden, the first story in the Dark Grove Plantation Series and I absolutely loved just about everything in this story. The only thing is that it was just too short and over in a blink of an eye!
This was a fun, fast paced and quick read. The story line is well-built, sweet, filled with sizzling scenes, suspense and great and likeable characters.
The connection and chemistry between Holden and Holly was there from the moment they meet. Unlike Brad (Holly's boyfriend), Holden is possessive, intense, protective and very caring of Holly.
This is a very enjoyable insta-love BDSM read and I would love to tell you more, but you'll have to one click it to find out what happens.
I absolutely love it and can't wait for the next installment!!
Holden, the first story in the Dark Grove Plantation Series and I absolutely loved just about everything in this story. The only thing is that it was just too short and over in a blink of an eye!
This was a fun, fast paced and quick read. The story line is well-built, sweet, filled with sizzling scenes, suspense and great and likeable characters.
The connection and chemistry between Holden and Holly was there from the moment they meet. Unlike Brad (Holly's boyfriend), Holden is possessive, intense, protective and very caring of Holly.
This is a very enjoyable insta-love BDSM read and I would love to tell you more, but you'll have to one click it to find out what happens.
I absolutely love it and can't wait for the next installment!!
July 4, 2017
Holden is something little different from Julia Sykes and I like it. It is a short, quick story and you can read it in one sitting. It is a first book in Dark Grow Plantation series (or at least I hope there will be more).
It's still BDSM story with a hot alfa Dom and his sexy sweet Sub, because Julia Sykes is queen of BDSM stories, but this one is not dark like most of her other books are. So if you are looking for something not dark, but still kinky and naughty, you have to check this out. But be aware it's hot and steamy, it might burn your hands!!!! You will love Holden.
I would really like more stories like this from Julia, but I love her dark side as well. Either way, you can't go wrong when you get Julia Sykes book. I highly recommend it.
Grab your copy and enjoy!
It's still BDSM story with a hot alfa Dom and his sexy sweet Sub, because Julia Sykes is queen of BDSM stories, but this one is not dark like most of her other books are. So if you are looking for something not dark, but still kinky and naughty, you have to check this out. But be aware it's hot and steamy, it might burn your hands!!!! You will love Holden.
I would really like more stories like this from Julia, but I love her dark side as well. Either way, you can't go wrong when you get Julia Sykes book. I highly recommend it.
Grab your copy and enjoy!
June 29, 2017
A hot little BDSM read from Julia Sykes!
The sexual tension was off the charts with this one, insta lust and insta love.
Holly has always had some pretty raunchy fantasies but doesn't think anything will come of them till her boyfriend stumbles upon them one day and 'tries' to be what she wants when it all seems to go down hill.
Holden was dark and smoldering, looking for a sub for quiet a few years that when he see's Holly he knows she is for him.
She's got the submissive attitude but she's also not a complete doormat and has a little sass which he loves.
I really liked this one and I'm looking forward to the next!
❤💋
The sexual tension was off the charts with this one, insta lust and insta love.
Holly has always had some pretty raunchy fantasies but doesn't think anything will come of them till her boyfriend stumbles upon them one day and 'tries' to be what she wants when it all seems to go down hill.
Holden was dark and smoldering, looking for a sub for quiet a few years that when he see's Holly he knows she is for him.
She's got the submissive attitude but she's also not a complete doormat and has a little sass which he loves.
I really liked this one and I'm looking forward to the next!
❤💋
April 29, 2021
Holly always knew she was different. In finding erotic romance novels, she discovered she was looking for a Dom. Her boyfriend, Brad takes her to Dark Grove Plantation, a BDSM club, but then proceeds to bully, abuse and break up with her there. She then meets Holden, a Dom who is patient with her. They immediately feel a spark and attraction to each other. I wish there had been more to this book. There seems like there should be a lot more to Holly and Holden's story. More scenes, more trust issues not just blind trust, I wanted the collaring ceremony, but even more a true proposal and wedding. I wanted the whole HEA!!!
July 2, 2017
4.5 stars
This is the first story of the Dark Grove Plantation Series and it is a quick, steamy read that you do not want to put down. The chemistry between Holden and Holly is off the charts from the first time they lay eyes on one another across the bar….Holden is the quintessential alpha male who has an intense need to protect Holly from her verbally abusive boyfriend. If you are looking for your next book, then look no further than this one; you’ll be glad you did!
I volunteered to read an arc for a review.
This is the first story of the Dark Grove Plantation Series and it is a quick, steamy read that you do not want to put down. The chemistry between Holden and Holly is off the charts from the first time they lay eyes on one another across the bar….Holden is the quintessential alpha male who has an intense need to protect Holly from her verbally abusive boyfriend. If you are looking for your next book, then look no further than this one; you’ll be glad you did!
I volunteered to read an arc for a review.
July 3, 2017
This book is about a young woman named Holly who goes to a BDSM club with her boyfriend and leaves with a sexy stranger.
This book was short and sweet and sexy as hell. Holly knows what she wants and it isn't her asshole boyfriend. When his temper gets out of hand a handsome stranger named Holden shows up to her rescue. Holden knows what he wants and he wants Holly. He protects her then he seduces her and she's more than ready to be seduced. This story was hot! I'd love to read more books in this series.
This book was short and sweet and sexy as hell. Holly knows what she wants and it isn't her asshole boyfriend. When his temper gets out of hand a handsome stranger named Holden shows up to her rescue. Holden knows what he wants and he wants Holly. He protects her then he seduces her and she's more than ready to be seduced. This story was hot! I'd love to read more books in this series.
July 6, 2017
*There are no spoilers in my review.*
I have been waiting for a re-release of this series for a while now. The original set of stories were the only of this author's books I had not read.
"Holden" is a short and sweet story about a couple who meets and falls in love quickly, yet realistically. Something that could definitely happen on a weekend.
This is a fast-paced BDSM romance that can easily be read in an hour and a half. I'm looking forward to the next in the Dark Grove Plantation rewritten stories.
I have been waiting for a re-release of this series for a while now. The original set of stories were the only of this author's books I had not read.
"Holden" is a short and sweet story about a couple who meets and falls in love quickly, yet realistically. Something that could definitely happen on a weekend.
This is a fast-paced BDSM romance that can easily be read in an hour and a half. I'm looking forward to the next in the Dark Grove Plantation rewritten stories.
June 29, 2017
Holden is a very short story I read it in less than a couple of hours. I wasn’t really keeping an eye on time. You gotta love instalove because it is short, HOT & SEXY.
If you love BDSM and are between books and need something short & HOT then this is the book for you. I have loved other books by Julia Sykes so I knew I wanted to read this one.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I give Holden 4 stars.
If you love BDSM and are between books and need something short & HOT then this is the book for you. I have loved other books by Julia Sykes so I knew I wanted to read this one.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I give Holden 4 stars.
July 1, 2017
Julia Sykes has been a favorite author of mine and she does not disappoint with Holden, the first book in the Dark Grove series. It's a short, sexy, insta-love story that leaves you begging for more. I was able to connect with Holly on a personal level and know many have had that same inner turmoil. Holden just radiates that protective, dominating side and helps Holly discover herself and explore her desires. I can't wait to check out the next book in this series.
July 5, 2017
Julia Sykes delivers...
Another awesome BDSM story by Julia Sykes. I've been hooked on her books since the Impossible Series. The dominant men in her books are drool worthy and always have a very hidden side to them that makes each and every one of them vulnerable. Holden is not any different. Even though he is dominant and protective he has a softer side to him. In Holly he finds the missing piece he's been searching for and he is determined to hold on.
Another awesome BDSM story by Julia Sykes. I've been hooked on her books since the Impossible Series. The dominant men in her books are drool worthy and always have a very hidden side to them that makes each and every one of them vulnerable. Holden is not any different. Even though he is dominant and protective he has a softer side to him. In Holly he finds the missing piece he's been searching for and he is determined to hold on.
July 5, 2017
If you are a fan of Julia Sykes get ready for some insta-love hotness! Shorter than her Impossible series yet, just as full of uber protective Alpha male Dom and amazing chemistry. Her book Holden is the first novella in her Dark Grove Plantation series. Holly is a newbie sub and enters Holden's world, looking to explore the dark enticing life of BDSM. Holly and Holden are an amazing instant couple, with plenty of heat between them!
July 7, 2017
I loved this short, hot story. So much heat was packed into 6 chapters. Holden is a strong dominant looking for his perfect sub. Newbie Holly didn't know what to expect but she definitely didn't expect Holden. Their chemistry was explosive!! They both get exactly what they have been wanting in a loving, protective, caring, trusting, kinky, fiery D/s relationship. I love their relationship!! I want more!!!!
June 12, 2021
This story will leave you wanting to get to know more of the members of the Dark Grove Plantation. When Holly and her boyfriend go there, things do not turn out as she anticipated. It becomes clear very early that he has no idea of what it means to be a dominant. Not only does Holden come to her rescue, but there is a clear attraction between him and Holly that cannot be denied. My only complaint would be that I wanted more of Holly and Holden.
January 10, 2023
This is one of my faves that I read over and over again. I love the instant attraction, the protectiveness and the way he takes care of her. Holden is a perfect alpha with all the right words and Holly is a strong h that knows what she wants. I like that this was mild kink with consent, mainly bondage and dominance/sub with respect for and from both. I've read all three in this series and Holden is my fave.
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