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Of Love #1

Translation of Love

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Ellie Brooks has spent the past two years of her life building barriers around herself that are guaranteed to keep people out and her demons in. She doesn't want to get close to anyone for fear of being hurt again. When she meets Latin superstar Victor Garza, she is shocked at how quickly he is able to penetrate her armor. She doesn't want to let him in but can't deny the chemistry they have. He has the potential to heal her wounds and open her heart but she isn't sure she can let him.

Will love be enough to keep them together or will Ellie's past prove to be too much for the pair to overcome?

298 pages, Paperback

First published April 15, 2013

45 people are currently reading
2789 people want to read

About the author

Alice Tribue

17 books703 followers
Alice Tribue is a bestselling author of contemporary romance novels. She is currently living in New Jersey with her two children and spends as much of her free time as she can by the beach. She enjoys reading, writing, and an unhealthy addiction to coffee.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews
Profile Image for Trixie.
95 reviews
April 17, 2013
This is my review for Translation of Love. I was lucky enough to get a copy of this book in advance for an honest review. I started this book on April 2, 2013 and finished on April 4, 2013. I give the book 4.5****
This book is a realistic romance, with a twist in the middle and a happy ending. It is about a girl who has been wounded, built walls and the man who is patient enough to break them down.

Elizabeth (Elle, Ellie) meets Victor (a Latin superstar) in a bookstore one night by chance. She has no idea of his fame. They meet again, later that same night and Victor claims it to be fate. He persuades Elle to sit with him and have a drink. This begins their love affair.
Elle’s previous relationship left her broken. She has not dated or put herself out there for over two years; working hard to change who she really is to protect her heart. Victor begins to chip away at the “security” she worked so hard for. After the second date, she starts to realize this.
I’ve become a master at hiding my true reactions but tonight, just for this one moment, Victor somehow gets that piece of me too.Ellie

Victor is a superstar throughout Latin America and Europe. He too is leery about relationships, having been previously burned. Elle is an innocent; she has no idea of his fame. Victor is hesitant to reveal himself, dodging questions and enjoying his anonymity. Elle eventually finds out.
“I’m sorry. Can you just try for one second to see it from my side? How it must feel to never know if the person you’re seeing is with you for you or for your fame? Can you imagine how refreshing it was for me to be with you, knowing that I didn’t have to worry about it for once?”Victor

Victor is so very patient and strong. He knows what he wants and that is Ellie. He is willing to break down the walls; climb over the walls and go around the walls to get to her. He understands that she has been hurt and even though she is unwilling to talk about it, Victor senses he needs to go slow. Slow emotionally and physically. Emotionally ~ the first half of the book is Victor trying to show Ellie that she can trust him. Physically ~ it is foreplay. Sexy. Hot. Smokin’. Foreplay. I am far from a prude and I like my books to have heat, but, I have to say that it is refreshing to find a book where the relationship takes on a more realistic approach to the sex. When Ellie and Victor finally fall into bed for actual sex, it is “love-making” in the truest sense. She knows that there will be no turning back after. She is giving herself to him and he is making it clear that he will not let her go once she does this.
“Look at me, Love.” I open my eyes and I know that he is serious. If I let him make love to me, I’m agreeing to be his. “I will not let you go that easily. I know what I want, and It’s you. If you let me do this, you’re mine. Do. You. Understand?”Victor

Without giving away anymore of this book (I have so many highlighted sections I could share) I have to say I truly enjoyed it. Step by step you see the reality of a relationship form. It has highs and lows and all kinds of good stuff in-between. Alice, the author, in my opinion, did a fabulous job of allowing me, through her words, to bond with the characters. I felt as though I was invested after the first chapter. Congratulations Alice on a successful first book. I can’t wait till the next one. Maybe it will be about Alex and Jordan? Hint….

One last quote from Translation of Love …
Whatever happens, I’ll be alright. I’m a lot stronger now than I was a few years ago. I’m smarter, braver and not so f**king naïve. I can allow myself to be his and still hold onto the essence of who I am as a person. I don’t have to change for him and I don’t think Victor would want me to. He likes me for me, I’m sure of it.Ellie
Profile Image for ✦ Ellen’s Reviews ✦.
1,768 reviews361 followers
April 28, 2013
4 stars! Translation of Love is beautiful, sweet, romantic story with a healthy dose of steamy sex scenes. Ellie is very emotionally closed off when she has a chance encounter with Victor, who is a Latin superstar. She does not recognize him because he goes relatively unnoticed in the U.S. despite his superstar status in other parts of the world.

Ellie is scared to open herself to Victor at first, and the author does a great job of describing their unfolding relationship. Because Victor is a world-famous and very successful singer, there are lots of people who conspire to keep Victor and Ellie apart so there are lots of plot twists. Ellie has also several very traumatic events in her past that have scarred her emotionally and led her to be tremendously insecure. She is ready to run at the first bump in the road, but Victor fights for their relationship as he also pushes Ellie to let herself love and be loved.

Translation of Love is a very sexy and sweet romance with a very hot alpha named Victor! There is also a very satisfying ending that will leave you very fulfilled. All in all, a very satisfying and enjoyable read. Translation of LoveAlice Montalvo-Tribue
Profile Image for Wendy.
249 reviews38 followers
April 27, 2013
Author provided ARC for honest review



I'm not sure where to go with this.

VICTOR GARZA anyone?!?! Lol. Yeah, he's hot!

Elizabeth meets Victor by accident on two different occasions and Victor is determined to take her out before he goes back to New York. He's in New Jersey for work, that also is a traveling job. What Elizabeth doesn't know, is what he does for said work and Victor hesitates to tell her. When she finds out what he does for a living will it destroy what they've made of their relationship?

Okay, let me just say that the no-sex/sex scenes in this book were scorchers! I was fanning myself a few times just from the tension. The way that Victor talks to her is....Wow...just wow!

I was a little concerned with how fast the relationship developed for him, but once it hits a certain point in the book I got it. I really tried to not pull in Ellie's past, and it helped.

I think there are so many things that this couple faced and conquered throughout the book that there was almost a point throughout that it became too much. I was ready for them to get their HEA and it just didn't happen. However, I will say that when it comes, it's perfect!

I definitely enjoyed this book enough to recommend it to others.

My cast:

Victor



Elizabeth

254 reviews391 followers
July 14, 2013

What do you get when you have,

One super hot Latino singer Super Star,

One wounded girl who shuts herself off from everyone,

One crazy Ex,

wait...

They both have a crazy Ex,

Oh and lets not forget

his awful crazy Mother??


You get all those crazy things, but instead of being cliche & unrealistic you get a romance that is relatable and leaves you wanting more.


~"I think if you pay attention, you'll notice signs everywhere. The universe is always trying to tell you something."~


Ellie Brooks is broken, emotionally damaged.
With her need for self-preservation, she has constructed a coat of armour so strong that she believes will never be penetrated.
Due to a horrible previous relationship Ellie has kept herself pretty closed off.
Deciding that love isn't worth the trouble she guards her heart carefully.

~“In the silence of the night, there is nothing left to do but to give in to the pain, the emptiness that comes from knowing that the idea of what you once thought was love was nothing more than an optical illusion.”~


One day Ellie runs into Victor, Literally runs into him twice in one night.
Believing that fate has bought them together,Victor, convinces Ellie that they need to get to know each other better.



Their connection is instant but with her past Ellie believes that letting anyone else in will only spell more trouble.

~“For me, nothing is scarier than hope because I know that when the thing that you hope for is lost, it leaves a surplus of new emotions, none of which are good.”~

Oh My Victor.
He is not your typical musician, No bad boy with shady pasts, no skanky women hanging off him.
Victor is so patient with Ellie. He is perceptive of her feelings and how to work around her insecurities
He knows what he wants and that is Ellie.
Slowly he breaks down her walls and Ellie lets him in.

~“Look at me, Love.” I open my eyes and I know that he is serious. If I let him make love to me, I’m agreeing to be his. “I will not let you go that easily. I know what I want, and It’s you. If you let me do this, you’re mine. Do. You. Understand?” ~


They have many obstacles, mainly one crazy mum...
But Victor, is always a constant. Of course Ellie does try to push him away, but Victor is not prepared to let her go.
Victor is so sweet and real, I really connected with him. He didn't seem unrealistic at all and I loved him.
You can see, feel his love for Ellie.


Ellie's past held her back so much that her actions did seem fitting for her age.
When she would try to run, I kept thinking, NO! Stop and think about this, look around you and take a minute to see.
Fear has a way of holding us back, and this was when Victor was just so patient and loving with her.

~To be beautiful, I'd have to love what's inside as well as out and up until very recently, I haven't been sure if I liked any of it.~

In the past 2 years she had just been existing, going through the emotions but not really living her life.
As she heals she can see her self worth. Move on from her pain and leave it behind and only embrace the love between her and Victor.

~“This is what it feels like when two people really share love. There are no false hopes and promises, no anger or resentment, it’s just pure love.”~

The sex, lets talk about the sex.
HOT HOT HOT HOT HOT HOT!!!
Not too little, not too much. JUST RIGHT.

Victor is a little mixture of sweet, sexy and a touch of Alpha.
Oh goodness he was just perfect.
Taking it slow in the start, just giving us a little taste.
Then BAM! oh hello, yes please….

~"Are you mine?"
I bite my lower lip, look him in the eye and nod my head.
"Show me you're mine, Love."
"How?"
"Give me what's mine. Open your legs for me Babe." The last piece of self- control I have slips away and I do what I'm told because in the moment there is nothing that I want more.
He lets out a growl, releases my hand and grabs my legs to position them around his waist as he slowly slides inside of me, filling me completely. ~



I loved the Epilogue, love me a epilogue…
I hope that we continue to see a bit of their life in the next books.
Great debut novel for Alice Montalvo-Tribue, I can't wait for Jordan and Alex's story next.

++4 STARS++

Buy it.
Read it.
Love it.

Thank you to the author for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.


This review is also posted at Fab, Fun & Tantalizing Reads

Profile Image for Kayla.
458 reviews164 followers
October 14, 2014
4 stars! Make sure to stop by My Book Muse on 4/29 for the Translation of Love Blog Tour!

***ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review***
I close my eyes, committing the moment to memory. The moment where he managed to turn the darkest part of me to light.”

Elizabeth, or Ellie Brooks, is a 30-something IT specialist who lives her life in her own protective shell. Ellie, had not only her heart, but her spirit broken by a former lover, and in turn has erected the strongest walls to protect her. She is determined to never give that part of herself away again.

It isn't until fate would have her bumping into Victor Garza, Latin superstar and delicious man-candy, that Ellie starts to feel something she has buried deep within her.

Victor


15091_10151576841882859_1032525401_n

 
I think if you pay attention, you'll notice signs everywhere. The universe is always trying to tell you something."

and despite Ellie's initial response to run, Victor starts charming his way into Ellie's life, and the walls that Ellie erected around her heart start to crumble.
He is pulling me further in, making himself my center of gravity.”

Victor is incredibly sensual and even Ellie, who avoids relationships and romantic entanglements , finds it hard to keep him at bay.

TOL

 

But there are a ton of obstacles in their way: Victor's career, Ellie's self-preservation, and a few people that would stop at nothing to see them two apart.

I LOVE Victor. He was unlike any other musician I have read about. Most of them are bad boys with seedy pasts and a penchant for slutty women. Alice went against the grain and Victor is no womanizer. Thank the gods, there are good guy musicians out there! He is incredible patient with Ellie and I loved how perceptive he was of her feelings and how to work around her resistance.

Ellie, well Ellie is kind of a hot mess. She is independent and successful at a job she hates, but she is so incredibly sad. It isn't until Victor comes in and colors her world, that Ellie finally starts living. He is the strength to her weakness.

Translation of Love was steamy, romantic, and very entertaining. I had a hard time connecting to Ellie at first, but she grew into her character and I really enjoyed where she ended up. And Victor, well Victor is sexy, sweet, and not hard to love.

tol2
4 stars!
Profile Image for Twinsie Talk Angie J.
1,809 reviews
April 18, 2013
check out this review and others at
www.twinsietalk.blogspot.com
www.facebook.com/twinsietalk
@twinsietalk

I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

Uhm I must first start this by saubing I am in love with Victor!! Like mad, crazy, stalkery love...yes I know he is fictional but I can hope and dream to bump into him at a Barnes and Noble right???

Ok sooo review time. I have to say I adored this book. I loved how Victor and Elizabeth/Elle/ Ellie met. She wanted to get a book for her niece. She is standing in a line and finds out it is for some singers autograph. She leaves said line and gets into the story but makes a quick trip to the ladies room. When she leaves she literally runs into a hot guy going into the men's, He asks if she is getting an autograph and she says " i have no clue who the guy is and no going to a party" and runs away. She cant get the run in out of her head. She wonders if he was interested in her? Oh well. She leaves adn who runs into her leaving the book store? Yep the bathroom hottie. So they have a drink and set a date. Now the next day he texts her for directions and she freaks...a single girl should never give some mass murdered her home address. (I was cracking up because i so thought that a time or two when I was dating.) She offers to meet him at the hotel and he responds " I have GPS and i am not some murderer!" I loved how Victor could always read Ellie's thoughts and could always calm her because she is honestly her own worst enemy. Well they have an amazing time and the next morning Ellie finds out WHO this hottie is.....and being her own worst enemy she shuts down. Victor does convince her to try with him. They do proceed to date and have an amazing connection. They have to deal with her and her trauma (which was very heart breaking when she tells Victor EVERYTHING that she has gone through), his SUPER AWESOME beeotch of a mother/manager who thinks Ellie is a gold digger, Victor's SUPER beeotch of a ex-girlfriend (however when Ellie and her have it out in a restaurant I was rolling with laughter at what Ellie tells her......). This book has its fair share of drama and it also has a love of heart warming moments between Victor and Ellie as he tears down her protective walls.

I loved how persistent Victor is. He can read Ellie like noone else can. He knows she is a nervous woman and wonders why. He falls in love with her at the bathroom in my opinion. He is sooo happy to meet someone who is into HIM and not the Rockstar he is in life. Victor is so patient with Ellie when it comes to being intimate and emotional. He only thinks in terms and "them" and a "future" with her. I found his alpha male role so amazingly sweet.

Ellie is such a mess and when she FINALLY confesses all the trauma she has gone through I feel for her. She sees her self as not worthy of him and can't understand why this hot guy who can have anyone he wants wants HER!!! She has an amazing support system in her dad, brother and best friend Jordan but she doesn't think she is worthy. Sigh.......

I have no clue who the next book in the series will be about but I have my hopes and dreams....I hope it is Jordan and a certain brother of Victors???????/ maybe ? hopefully?????

Profile Image for Kendall {Book Crazy}.
1,483 reviews
April 16, 2013
When I saw a Facebook status on Alice's page saying that she still had three ARCs of Translation of Love left and that she was looking for reviewers that would like to review them I quickly put my name in! I was really happy when I got picked! Translation of Love was a beautiful book about coming to terms with everything that has happened in your life, being able to move on and about being able to love again! I really enjoyed it! The plot was very interesting! It had a superstar in it but what I liked about this book is that it wasn't crazy like some other books about singers that I have read! Victor wanted a quiet life and his music career had sort of taken a little break so that he could really figure out what he wanted to do with his life! I really enjoyed Ellie's backstory as well! The two main characters were a bit broken but together they were able to help each other learn to love again! I loved that they taught each other to love again! It was the most beautiful aspect to the book! I also loved that the author put in scenes that I wasn't expecting to make the book more interesting and she also added twists to the story as well! The characters were written amazingly! Ellie was the main character and at times I felt it a little hard to connect with her! I think that this was because of her backstory and what we discover she has been through in her life! She had been through a lot and I found her to be a little closed off but in a way I can completely understand why she feels like that! I was able to connect with Ellie for most of the book though! I loved that Victor was able to make Ellie come out of the shell that she had put herself in and he made her able to come to terms with her past! Victor was hot! I loved his backstory and his determination to prove to Ellie that he was perfect for him! I also loved that he stood up to his family to protect Ellie and to show how he deeply he really felt for her! The only thing that annoyed me about Ellie and Victor was that they kept referring to each other as Love or Baby! This sort of annoyed me as they did it quite a lot throughout the book and I did find it a bit distracting! The rest of the characters in this book were amazing as well! I am looking forward to seeing where the next book in this series goes and I know that I will definitely read it! I also love the cover! As soon as I saw it I knew I wanted to read the story behind it! The title of the book also makes so much more sense to you after you have read the book! Big thank you to Alice for an ARC of Translation of Love!
Profile Image for W. Ferraro.
Author 11 books481 followers
April 2, 2013
I was given the unbelievable honor of receiving Translation of Love ACR. For a debut novel, it was incredible! Plain and simple! Alice Montalvo-Tribue has reached a precedence that many writers take years and many books to accomplish; she was able to engage the reader within only a few pages. Immediately, I wanted to know what was going to happen. I wanted to find out what was the reason the heroine, Elle, felt she needed to protect herself from love. Moreover, the man candy in this book, all I can say is, yummy, yum, yum. The book flowed quickly but did not leave gaps. You knew exactly what was occurring and when the bedroom scenes, or wherever for that matter, occurred you wanted to just melt right into the words on the page. Kudos to Mrs. Tribue for achieving a wonderful success for her introduction to the writing world.
Profile Image for Lynn.
645 reviews3 followers
May 18, 2013
I should have known this was going to be a hard one for me when Victor started calling her Love on their first date. First of all I shudder every time I hear a male character call his object of affection Love. It's very Edward Cullen, I didn't like when he did it, I don't like when other characters do it in any of the books I read, that's my hang up though.

Secondly Elle seriously got on my nerves. Maybe it's the fact that the last couple of books I've read had some pretty strong kick ass heroines and Elle was far from it. Her constant panic attacks over small things is really what did it for me. She kept wondering when the other shoe was going to drop and the saying oh well and then freaking out again. It was too much for me, I wanted to like it but I just couldn't, and giving it a high rating for the HOT steamy sex scenes is not my style.
Profile Image for Christina Lyn.
543 reviews
June 3, 2013
This story hook me the moment I laid my eyes on this book. I feel overwhelming in the way that their story is so real and I can almost taste their happy ending. But then again their past still withholds them back for their bright future together. I fell in love with Victor for his determination. He proves that he is far more different from the last boyfriend Ellie had.

Victor is a kind of boyfriend that who will take your breath away is just one look. He's kindness and love for Ellie shows how this young man is worthy for her.

You did an amazing job Alice for creating such a lovely story of Victor and Ellie.
Profile Image for Marcie.
149 reviews35 followers
May 1, 2013
4 stars


I loved this book. I loved Victor he NEVER EVER gave up on her even though she tried to run on numerous occasions he never let her.It was a sweet sometimes steamy read. I read it in an afternoon so it was a quick read for me.So if you are in for an uncomplicated sweet loving read thi9s is for you.
Profile Image for Sarah's Book Blog.
227 reviews927 followers
June 2, 2013

Spoiler Free Review of Translation of Love by Alice Montalvo-Tribue

Giveaway on Bottom of Review

4.5-5 STARS!

"Nothing that you say to me, nothing that he did to you will ever make me love you any less.  I want all of you, the beauty, the silliness, the kindness and I'll even take the sadness, and the pain.  I'll take it all because it's a part of you"

Translation of Love was such a beautiful read.  It was romantic and sweet but it also has some seriously hot, sexy, steamy scenes.  The characters are so likable and REAL.  A lot of times you end up saying to yourself "yea, OK, cause that would happen", in this story...you relate with them, understand how they must feel, you know them.

The reason I can;'t give Translation of Love a full 5 out of 5 is because of the beginning.  Things were a bit too much explained (if that makes sense). I kinda felt like if the whole book was like that, I wouldn't like it. That changed...QUICK.  Alice sucked me in, and I fell in love so all in all I will give it a full 5 star rating.

"So many people want the hearts and flowers, the expensive dinners and pricey gifts, but at the end of the day what do any of those things mean when you're not comfortable with each other?"
Elle is your typical girl with serious trust issues thanks to a lot of men out their that treat their woman like crap.  She's built walls to protect herself, to keep from getting hurt again.  I really like Elle, she is believable. Yes, at times I wanted to slap her and say "Seriously girl, let loose" but I get it, men can do some serious damage to us girls.  I really felt like I could relate to Elle. Someone I would love to spend my spare time with and get to know...she's awesome.

Victor Garza, oooooh Victor, the Latin superstar.  I love him. He is sweet, romantic, understanding, caring, protective and HOT...HOT!!  Yes, that does sound like it could be a very fictitious guy but he just can't feel that way...you cant. Being a superstar has mad it hard for him to be himself around anyone. Most people only like him because of his fame and fortune....enter Elle..."Victor Who?"

"...the kind of guy who will do whatever it takes to make sure that you feel safe.  The kind of guy who will calm your fears and hold your hand through the hard stuff."

They have such a connection that you can't feel anything but love for these two as a couple.  Elle has issues but Victor is the only guy that can deal with them, help her heal.  These twos journey as a new "item" has some serious bumps in the roads. They can't catch a freaking break.  Normally its the guy or the girl that has things happen but damn...they both have things thrown at them that would make anyone run away screaming.

I love how the author was able to make these two characters from two different worlds connect.  Everything worked, there wasn't any drama that makes you want to throw your kindle (or any device) across the room saying OH COME ON.

Another thing that I loved about this was I actually know where it was based.  I go to Jersery shore in the summer with family and love it there....AND I live in NY so when they talk about where they live...I get one of those "HEY, I know what its like" moments

I highly recommend this book.  It's a good, sit down and relax book. The epilogue alone was holy crap.  It was probably one of the best ones I have ever read. There is a HEA and you won't be left with any questions.

Right now Translation of Love is only $0.99 on Amazon-->Click Here

Add it to your Goodreads TBR list-->Click Here

I also have a little teaser from Book 2 from the Blog Tour too. Desperation of Love (Alex & Jordan's Story) Click Here for Book 2 Teaser
Here is my Casting:



Elle-Beautiful and Natural





Victor Garza- HOT LATIN SUPERSTAR

This guy made me think of his as well


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Profile Image for Rude Girl Book Blog.
165 reviews172 followers
April 25, 2013
You know that feeling when you are about to do something and yet you are not sure if you up for the task??? Well that is how I feel about writing this review.

Alice Montalvo-Tribue is a freshman author although her writing was that of a seasoned veteran. The character and scenes are perfectly developed and you can truly feel each emotion the characters were experiencing.

Ellie Brooks is a thirty-something IT specialist living a simple life and protecting her heart at all cost. She has an inspiring family that loves her deeply. Ellie’s close friendship to Jordan is what most of us strive for in our own friendships.

Victor Garza is the ultra hot Latin superstar that craves his privacy and is ready to give it all up and settle down. Not only does he know his way around a stage but he knows all the right buttons to push on a woman (mine included!).

The attraction between Ellie and Victor was immediate. Ellie agrees to a couple of casual dates but is determined to keep this relationship short and sweet. Victor takes his time with Ellie and peels back all her walls layer by layer. Their relationship is so endearing and yet it is defiantly not lacking in the steamy department!

Few of my favorite quotes:

“He is pulling me further in, making himself my center of gravity.”

“I let the demons of my past destroy my wonderful present. I want to take it all back, wish it away, close my eyes and wake up back in Victor’s bed, in his arms.”

“This is what it feels like when two people really share love. There are no false hopes and promises, no anger or resentment, it’s just pure love.”

“I close my eyes, committing the moment to memory. The moment where he managed to turn the darkest part of me to light.”

This is a great read. One that will have you smiling and crying! Did I stay up way to late reading. YOU BET! I think you will too. Yes I loved this book and I would highly recommend it!

Alice is currently working on Desperation of Love (Of Love #2) check out the teaser on Alice's Blog. I am super excited and can’t wait to get it in my hot little hands!
Profile Image for Debra Presley.
Author 7 books906 followers
October 4, 2014
5–bitches bitches everywhere–stars

OMG!!! I loved this book sooooooooo much! I want to jump in the book and grab Victor for myself! He is just…sigh…perfect!

We meet Ellie Brooks when she is basically at her lowest. She isn’t living life but instead hiding from it. She has cut herself off from everyone but her family and best friend Jordan–and even those relationships are limited to only what she wants them to see. That all changes on a chance encounter when she meets Victor. Victor is a Latin singer who is huge–however Ellie has no idea who he is.

The attraction is immediate but Ellie continues to fight it but Victor won’t take no for an answer and fights for what he feels can be something extraordinary. Will Ellie’s past push him away? Will her insecurities can in their way? Will the past come back to hurt their relationship?

Oh wait, and then there are the bitches! You gotta love having a few bitches in a book. They will infuriate you. I know I had a few moments where if I could I would’ve reached in and slapped a bitch.

Once you start this book you will not want to put it down. I was addicted from the beginning and lost a few hours of sleep because I kept saying “one more chapter” and I just couldn’t stop. You will ride a Victor high and you won’t be able to stop thinking of him or this story for days after and that plus the chemistry and steaminess is why I gave Translation of Love 5 stars!

I can’t recommend this book enough! Go get and go love Victor!!
Profile Image for Angela.
325 reviews26 followers
April 14, 2013
Elizabeth "Elle" Brooks has closed herself off to love and relationships. She had a bad relationship experience and decided that love wasn't worth the trouble. But that all changes when she meets sexy, Latin heart throb Victor Garza. As much as she tries to resist him, can he break through her wall and convince her that not all guys are bad?

NOTE: THIS BOOK CONTAINS PRETTY EXPLICIT SEX SCENES, NOT 50 SHADES OF GREY SCENES, BUT NOT FOR PRUDES.

I really liked this book. I'm not much into romance or relationship books but this one was good. It hooked me in with the writing and the relationship dynamic between Elle & Victor. There isn't anything new or groundbreaking with the story, however Alice can weave the story in a way that makes it feel new. I found myself smiling while reading it and saying to Elle when she wasn't listening to reason "WTF are you doing?" I think that speaks volumes to the authors writing capability, when I'm doing that to a book! (This book will be available to the public in e-book format on April 25, 2013. However, hard copies of the book are available on Amazon.)
Profile Image for Anna.
5 reviews7 followers
May 4, 2013
I loved this book! I read it in one afternoon because I could not put it down. It was so refreshing, for a couple of reasons. One, I have been reading too many stories with "Alpha Males" and Victor was like a breath of fresh air. He was more similar to a guy you would find in real life. Playful, affectionate, warm and open. Yet he still let Ellie know that she was his and that he wanted her above anything/anyone else, but he did this in a healthy way. And two, both of them were in their early 30's, instead of being 19,20,21, etc. Also, the sex was hot and steamy but a little more romantic. It was kinda nice to get a break from spanking and dominating and tying up, lol. Don't get me wrong, I love those books, too. But this story was just more....loving. I also really related to Ellie because unfortunately, I have not dated for almost three years myself. My heart was broken and I have chosen to keep myself closed off for awhile. This book gave me hope that maybe my own Victor Garza will come walking into my life someday! READ THIS BOOK! You will fall head over heels! I really hope Alice writes some more about their life together!
Profile Image for Jennifer G..
438 reviews29 followers
September 23, 2013
Loved this book!!!!

Loved the patience and determination Victor had with Ellie, there love for each other was so pure!!

The mom on the other hand was such a bit*%, and Ellie was more of a woman than I think I would have been, lol

Loved all the characters!!! Really great book, a must read!!!

One of my many favorite lines:
"I want all of you, the beauty, the silliness, the kindness, and I'll even take the sadness, and the pain. I'll take it all because its a part of you."

WOW!! What an awesome guy, who couldn't fall in love with him, he's caring, loving, forgiving, hot, sexy, packed, easy to love, and a millionaire!!!! LOL


I will also be looking out for books by Alice Montalvo-Tribue!!!!
Profile Image for Beth.
771 reviews123 followers
April 28, 2013


Hot Latin Lover meets emotional shut down, scared woman. Victor is sweet, patient, and romantic. He realizes Elle is not ready for the kind of relationship he is wants. Elle goes between being ready to start having a life again and running from the possibility. There are many bumps in the road for Elle...the biggest being Victor's mother. Yes...his mother is a total B. Elle sometimes fights for her man and sometimes shuts down. When she fights, it is greatness.

Great romantic read. Love the end. No cliffhanger! Yeah!
Profile Image for Janey.
1,319 reviews
April 23, 2013
Enjoyed this story of Elle & Victor, and their journey towards a HEA.

Elle was a dating recluse due to a hidden bad relationship, and she bumped into Victor Garza (twice)..a latin singing sensation.

It followed their relationship finding Elle cagey and suspect, whilst Victor was loving, understanding and extremely patient!

A few hiccups along the way, but a nice romance...and Victor being the perfick boyfriend was a definite draw!
Profile Image for Lauren ♥ Inked in Chapters.
478 reviews39 followers
April 18, 2013
3.5 stars

You can read this and other reviews at madisonsays.com

“In the silence of the night, there is nothing left to do but to give in to the pain, the emptiness that comes from knowing that the idea of what you once thought was love was nothing more than an optical illusion.”

In Alice Montalvo-Tribue’s debut novel Translation of Love, we meet Ellie Brooks. Ellie has been hurt in the past. We’re not just talking about a little heartbreak here; we’re talking about full on destroyed. After surviving a devastating relationship/breakup, Ellie has vowed to never let love into her life again. She’s built walls so thick, it’s her hope that they’ll never come down.

Everything changes one fateful night when she bumps into a ridiculously gorgeous man while shopping at a local bookstore. Victor Garza is drool worthy! Too bad Ellie refuses to drool. She doesn’t have room in her life for love or relationships. They’re just too much of a risk. But fate has other plans for these two strangers.

“I had trained myself to believe that I could have a fulfilling life without any emotional involvement. Now, I’m not so sure if that’s true.”

As Ellie and Victor grow closer they face obstacles that most couples never even have to consider. You see, Victor is a rather famous Latin singer. While ex-lovers, crazy momagers (mom/manger) and paparazzi are tough to swallow, Ellie herself may just prove to be the couple’s biggest hurdle.

“For me, nothing is scarier than hope because I know that when the thing that you hope for is lost, it leaves a surplus of new emotions, none of which are good.”

What can I say about Ellie? Prior to meeting Victor it’s like she’s not even living at all. She just sort of exists. She goes through the emotions but refuses to really live her life. Then in waltzes Victor Garza and everything changes. He chips away at her hardened heart and brings her back to life. As the relationship progresses, Ellie grows more and more cautious. She’s waiting for the other shoe to drop. Waiting for Victor to prove he’s some kind of scum bag. Lucky for Ellie, Victor is one patient man.

I liked the fact that Victor is a Latin singer. I didn’t think I would at first. I thought it would be a corny detail, but it actually made the story more interesting. Because Victor is a Latin singer, he’s afforded more privacy. Not every person in the U.S. is a Latin music fan. Hell, if you asked me to name a Latin singer that hasn’t crossed over into mainstream music I’d come up with a complete blank. It was refreshing to read about a musician that is not being mobbed by horny women or crazed fans the entire book.

As I read Translation of Love, I was reminded of books I’d previously read. While the storyline is interesting and will keep you engaged, it closely echoes other books of this genre. I would have liked it to be a little more original. There is no shortage of drama, that’s for sure. It’s definitely not a boring read!
Profile Image for Mary Tatar.
643 reviews62 followers
May 1, 2013
This book rocked my socks off. I loved absolutely everything about Translation Of Love. I think I might just start listening to Latin music now. I have fallen in love with Victor Garza. He is the perfect man. But seriously I felt like I found a diamond in the rough with this book. It really was a sweet and beautiful love story.

Ellie literally runs into Victor in a bookstore. She is instantly attracted to him, but thinks she will never see this man again. Then a few hours later she runs into him again, well actually he accidently knocks her down. She has no idea who he is, a Latin superstar. Then he asks her out and well the rest is pretty much history. The man is hard to resist. Even with Ellie's closed off heart towards men, she can't even say no to him. When she finds out that he is Victor Garza Latin superstar she is shocked. She just can't believe it. Who is this perfect man and where did he come from? He opens her up and gives her the love she deserves. Now he is still a superstar and with everything that goes along with his success, it is very straining on their relationship at times. So the big question is will their love be enough to open her up and heal her past?
Obviously I am a huge Victor Garza fan. He is such a gentlemen, and so respectful of Ellie. I also believe he is the most patient and understanding man that I have ever read about. What can I say about Ellie she is haunted by her past and while moving forward with Victor we learn this girl is one tough cookie. I loved her character she was so strong yet fragile at the same time. Victor really is meant for her. The moment they laid eyes on each other there was no turning back. This was it for them. Everything else just doesn't matter. They are truly a force to be reckoned with.
I am putting this one in my top ten list for favorite book so far this year. This was such a refreshing read. One that had me grinning from ear to ear. You may ask does this wonderful man have a brother? Well he certainly does have a brother his name is Alex and I'm pretty sure he close to perfection as well. We will learn more about him later. That means there will be another book. The best feeling is when you read a book and realize there is more to come. I am so excited to read more from Alice. She had me at the first page, heck she had me at the beautiful cover. This is one of my must read recommendations of the year. So go check it out you won't be disappointed.

Profile Image for Sugar and Spice Book Reviews.
462 reviews172 followers
April 29, 2013
I really did not know what to expect going into this story but WOW TOL is a beautiful, well written, romantic story that sucked me right in and I devoured this book in one sitting. Hmmmmm....maybe because of VICTOR GARZA a very sweet, hot, alpha male who steams up the pages with Ellie in this story! 4 stars.

Ellie first meets Victor at his book signing where she is there to pick up a book for her niece. She has no clue who Victor is and she is not looking for love, but can not deny the sparks that are flying between her and this stranger. Victor just happens to be a Latin Superstar and finds it refreshing that Ellie doesn't recognize him and isn't like the typical money hungry women after him and after a second chance encounter in one day Victor believes that it is fate and takes a chance and asks Ellie out.

Ellie has kept herself pretty closed off due to a horrible previous relationship so she guards her heart carefully. It's wonderful to watch Victor wear down Ellie's walls and see their romance blossom. They face many bumps in the road, from people conspiring to keep them apart to Ellie's insecurities but the big question they have to face is if their relationship is worth fighting for? Can Victor get Ellie to trust him and not run as each of these obstacles get in their way?

Translation of Love is such a sweet romance story and I love how I felt like at the end that I wasn't left hanging, I was happy where Ellie and Victor's relationship was, no cliffhanger! Great debut novel for Alice Montalvo-Tribue and I look forward to reading book #2 in this series about Jordan and Alex.
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
May 15, 2013
I love how Elizabeth (Ellie) doesn't realize who she's really talking to and acts as if it doesn't bother her (which it doesn't as she doesn't know it's Victor she's talking to haha) "no, no, I mean I'm sure he's great and all, there are like a thousand girls in line looking like they are waiting to see the crowned prince but I don't know much about Latin music so I'm kind of at a loss." Victor I loved right off, "I'm not. I think it must be a sign, don't you? Fate maybe? I mean what are the odds of running into a beautiful woman twice in one night?" Victor is so thoughtful, "look, I'm only here for a few days and I just wanna spend as much time with you as I can. I thought you could spend the night then we could go get some breakfast in the morning and spend the day together. I promised you that we would take things slow and I meant it." Sweet, sweet boy. Victor does things to me, "don't get scared, just hold onto the sheets. This is gonna be good, baby." I mean he really does things to me, "come on, Baby. In the last few days, I've seen it all, and in case you haven't noticed, I like it all." Ellie, that girl is a spitfire and she has no problems taking claim on her man, "I'm no on'es replacement. I'm the upgrade. You'll do well to remember that. I don't know who the hell you think you are but I will rip you to shreds if you get in my face or come near Victor again."
Profile Image for Book Addict Mumma.
170 reviews29 followers
April 26, 2013

Everybody wants their lives to be perfect, the perfect marriage, the perfect house, job, ect. Reality bites because we all know that life is anything but perfect.
After breaking up with her fiancé Elle closes herself off from any idea of a relationship.
Enter Victor, he's smart sexy,sweet and will do anything to keep Elle from closing him out.
He pursues Elle after they crash into each other,not once but twice, he claims it as fate, she doesn't want to believe that. Elle doesn't recognise Victor and he finds that refreshing, but she is a bit peeved when she discovers who he is. Can their relationship blossom and thrive through the trials that life throws at them?
The story is a romantic one with everything I love in a romance novel.
There is no doubt in my mind, you will LOVE this book. The characters are well developed, the story is woven carefully with elements of real life. You'll find humor, irony, tears, and passion, with a plot and characters that are easy to relate to. I didn't want it to end!
Profile Image for U91.
382 reviews4 followers
April 30, 2013
That's why I've decided to give myself over to him completely, not just pieces of me, the pieces I let him see while hiding the dark parts away. I've decided that in order to love and be loved fully, I have to give him everything


I loved reading this book.
Usually I'm skeptical about the whole, singer-and-normal-girl-they-fall-in-love kinda story.... but this one was different, and had me hooked from the very first page! :) Something which I was not expecting

I liked Ellie a lot.. And although at first, I didn't understand why she was so reluctant to let Victor in her heart... by the end of the book, I fully understood.. and loved her even more for being a strong woman! :)

Victor was such a sweetheart.. and his patience with Ellie was just amazing..
All the secondary characters were great too.. even Victor's evil mother!!

This was a fast-paced romance, with some dark moments... but over all it was quite light-hearted.. and the epilogue wraps things up quite nicely :)

I can't wait for the next book in the series.. :D
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