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Bloodlines #1
Tug of War
Impulsive, YES. Irresponsible, SURE. Necessary, PROBABLY. Going to end badly, most likely. Does any of that matter to me, no. I decided that I can't please everyone so this week my only goal is to please me. I’m a selfish cow but I can’t seem to help it. I’m Clara Lord. I own Bloodline’s Tattoo Parlor, have a filthy mouth, no filter and a really strong objection to bossy idiots, pet names and wealthy men.
You will hate me, love me or love to hate me but either way it doesn’t matter. Everything I touch turns to crap and it’s all my fault. See, I lived through hell. Then I escaped hell and carefully spent the next eight years crafting a perfect little life until Domini Napoli screwed it all up. Now nothings right. Everything’s wrong and all my secrets are coming out.
Obviously I have to fix it, my life, the problem is I don’t really trust anyone and I don’t know how. Dominic baffles me. Sawyer adores me. Amanda and Marg try to keep me in line and I live for Allie. This whole things a cluster F***. I want them both in different ways but I have Alliecat to protect in the mix. I keep thinking the only way out of this is to take Allie and run...again. Leave both men behind and go back to Allie and Clara take on the world...is thirty three too old to do that now? It didn’t seem so bad at twenty four but to have to do all that work again... crap.
You will hate me, love me or love to hate me but either way it doesn’t matter. Everything I touch turns to crap and it’s all my fault. See, I lived through hell. Then I escaped hell and carefully spent the next eight years crafting a perfect little life until Domini Napoli screwed it all up. Now nothings right. Everything’s wrong and all my secrets are coming out.
Obviously I have to fix it, my life, the problem is I don’t really trust anyone and I don’t know how. Dominic baffles me. Sawyer adores me. Amanda and Marg try to keep me in line and I live for Allie. This whole things a cluster F***. I want them both in different ways but I have Alliecat to protect in the mix. I keep thinking the only way out of this is to take Allie and run...again. Leave both men behind and go back to Allie and Clara take on the world...is thirty three too old to do that now? It didn’t seem so bad at twenty four but to have to do all that work again... crap.
ebook
First published January 1, 2013
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About the author
K. Larsen
45 books1,080 followersI am an avid reader, coffee drinker, and chocolate eater who loves writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
October 26, 2013
2.75 Stars
I really tried to like this book but by the end I was...
This book is on the short side, it is 149 pages on my Nook and is a love triangle. The back and forth bothered me much more than Clara the main character's behavior did. She is definitely a hard main character to like. I’m pretty sarcastic myself, so that side of Clara didn’t bother me as much as her selfish behavior and rotten attitude.
"I decided that I can’t please everyone so this week my only goal is to please me. I’m a selfish cow but I can’t seem to help it.”
Clara, mother of 8 year old Allie lives with Sawyer. They have been in a relationship for 5 years. They also co-own a tattoo parlor. Sawyer is “Dad” to Allie and he is completely in love with Clara. Clara either lost interest somewhere along the way or just can’t commit to Sawyer. They are a family but see other people due to Clara’s lack of commitment.
”What is wrong with me? I have everything I’ve ever wanted right here and I can’t commit.”
While on the town in Boston with her girls, Clara attracts the attention of Dominic Napoli a billionaire. Dominic stops at nothing to win Clara's heart, even though, she is rude and crass at every turn. (Clara’s past has left her hating the rich and powerful due an abusive relationship.)
”I’m not a cheap lay, Clara. I don’t want one night I want all of them.”
I felt the author missed her mark with Dominic. He was more on the stalker/creepy side for me.
There is one scene that made absolutely no sense to me…
Overall, the story left me annoyed and irritated.
Somewhere along the way, I completely stopped liking Dominic and hoped he would disappear. I wish Sawyer all the best because he was a great guy through and through!
I really tried to like this book but by the end I was...
This book is on the short side, it is 149 pages on my Nook and is a love triangle. The back and forth bothered me much more than Clara the main character's behavior did. She is definitely a hard main character to like. I’m pretty sarcastic myself, so that side of Clara didn’t bother me as much as her selfish behavior and rotten attitude.
"I decided that I can’t please everyone so this week my only goal is to please me. I’m a selfish cow but I can’t seem to help it.”
Clara, mother of 8 year old Allie lives with Sawyer. They have been in a relationship for 5 years. They also co-own a tattoo parlor. Sawyer is “Dad” to Allie and he is completely in love with Clara. Clara either lost interest somewhere along the way or just can’t commit to Sawyer. They are a family but see other people due to Clara’s lack of commitment.
”What is wrong with me? I have everything I’ve ever wanted right here and I can’t commit.”
While on the town in Boston with her girls, Clara attracts the attention of Dominic Napoli a billionaire. Dominic stops at nothing to win Clara's heart, even though, she is rude and crass at every turn. (Clara’s past has left her hating the rich and powerful due an abusive relationship.)
”I’m not a cheap lay, Clara. I don’t want one night I want all of them.”
I felt the author missed her mark with Dominic. He was more on the stalker/creepy side for me.
There is one scene that made absolutely no sense to me…
Overall, the story left me annoyed and irritated.
Somewhere along the way, I completely stopped liking Dominic and hoped he would disappear. I wish Sawyer all the best because he was a great guy through and through!
August 6, 2014
3.5 stars
Clara
Dominic
Dominic is everything Clara hates and more, he represents a world she turned her back on long ago, a world she ran away and hid from. Why can't he just leave her alone, her life is easy, safe and content; successful in business, a happy little girl and Sawyer, her best friend who she can scratch her itch with.
Dominic is a rich and powerful man, never backing down from something he wants, and he wants Clara, not just for the night but for all the nights. She drew him in like a moth to a flame and he can't help but admire her strength and her no bull-shit attitude. He knows he affects her as much as she does him, he just has to bring the walls down enough for her to realize it too. She says that there is nothing going on between Sawyer and her, but she is just in denial, not wanting to believe her little safe world is about to be rocked, as intentions are made it's up to her to decide.
Tug of War is just that, a war of hearts; taking a risk or keeping things safe. There is more at stake than the hearts, her daughter's safety, while Sawyer has done an amazing job of keeping her safe, Dominic proves to be just as protective. These two men were both amazing in their own right and you honestly can't feel for Sawyer, but they were never an item and he never pushed her for more. Dominic pushed all her limits and finally woke her out of her routine. Sometimes you have to appreciate a man who doesn't just let you be but someone who will fight with you.
An interesting tale, with unexpected twists and turns, but heed the warning, Clara is definitely not for everyone; you will either hate her or love her. I chose to stay neutral, I wouldn't say I hated her nor can I say I loved her, she was a mom who thought she was doing what was right in a selfish way. I was expecting a hard ass, but to me she came across as a completely selfish and a little lonely, her attitude she uses as a guard to keep people away, to keep her little bubble safe. This is a stand alone read, with an honest to god alpha that wants and expects more than what she is offering and helps her open her eyes to the possibilities out there.
“I don't want one night, I want all of them.”
Clara
I’m Clara Lord. I own Bloodline’s Tattoo Parlor, have a filthy mouth , no filter, and a really strong objection to bossy idiots, pet names, and wealthy men. You will hate me, love me, or love to hate me, but either way, it doesn’t matter. Everything I touch turns to crap and it’s all my fault.
Dominic
Dominic Napoli is an ass and hot and infuriating and sexy and I think I want him.
Dominic is everything Clara hates and more, he represents a world she turned her back on long ago, a world she ran away and hid from. Why can't he just leave her alone, her life is easy, safe and content; successful in business, a happy little girl and Sawyer, her best friend who she can scratch her itch with.
I’ve been happily playing house with him for the last three years. We have an understanding and we both love each other deeply... we're just not, you know, in love
Dominic is a rich and powerful man, never backing down from something he wants, and he wants Clara, not just for the night but for all the nights. She drew him in like a moth to a flame and he can't help but admire her strength and her no bull-shit attitude. He knows he affects her as much as she does him, he just has to bring the walls down enough for her to realize it too. She says that there is nothing going on between Sawyer and her, but she is just in denial, not wanting to believe her little safe world is about to be rocked, as intentions are made it's up to her to decide.
How am I supposed to choose between these men? Sawyer is my family and I do love him but Dominic consumes my heart in ways Sawyer can't and I don’t know why yet. I need them both but I don't know how to stop this tug of war in my heart.
Tug of War is just that, a war of hearts; taking a risk or keeping things safe. There is more at stake than the hearts, her daughter's safety, while Sawyer has done an amazing job of keeping her safe, Dominic proves to be just as protective. These two men were both amazing in their own right and you honestly can't feel for Sawyer, but they were never an item and he never pushed her for more. Dominic pushed all her limits and finally woke her out of her routine. Sometimes you have to appreciate a man who doesn't just let you be but someone who will fight with you.
An interesting tale, with unexpected twists and turns, but heed the warning, Clara is definitely not for everyone; you will either hate her or love her. I chose to stay neutral, I wouldn't say I hated her nor can I say I loved her, she was a mom who thought she was doing what was right in a selfish way. I was expecting a hard ass, but to me she came across as a completely selfish and a little lonely, her attitude she uses as a guard to keep people away, to keep her little bubble safe. This is a stand alone read, with an honest to god alpha that wants and expects more than what she is offering and helps her open her eyes to the possibilities out there.
November 3, 2019
3.5 stars
July 2, 2015
TUG OF WAR was sexy and hilarious. I totally loved author, K. Larsen’s writing style. Throughout the entire book, I was gasping for breath – one minute it was from the insanely hot chemistry the characters shared and the next minute it was from my outrageous fits of laughter. It was excellent entertainment and I didn’t want it to end!
Clara is a total cougar . . .
TUG OF WAR is a wonderfully funny story of not 1, but 2 “Prince Charmings” and 1 damaged damsel. Although I loved Clara’s sassy spunk, there were times I totally wanted to strangle her. She was an incredibly selfish heroine at times and there were moments I was surprised I even liked her, but we eventually learn what fuels the fiery wall she has built around her heart. It is obvious that both men love her and she loves them, but which one will eventually tear down her defenses?
Don’t cheat yourself; snatch this little gem up when it is released on October 25, 2013. Trust me, you will love every minute of it!
✳✳ Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.
✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews
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Clara is a total cougar . . .
❝Cougars? Seriously, since when does thirty-two put you in cougar territory?” I chortle.Ok, so maybe not quite a cougar, but she’s hot and sassy and totally comfortable with her sexuality. What she’s not comfortable with is commitment, but she has her reasons and those reasons remain a mystery for the majority of the book. In fact, I thought I was going to have to have a sparring session with the author because the end was getting dangerously close and there were still a lot of unanswered questions. THANK GOD the loose ends were wrapped up and there was not cliffhanger at the end - I was *mostly* happy with the outcome and that was only because I wanted her to end up with BOTH men!
“When the boys hitting on you are a decade or more younger than you. That’s when.❞
TUG OF WAR is a wonderfully funny story of not 1, but 2 “Prince Charmings” and 1 damaged damsel. Although I loved Clara’s sassy spunk, there were times I totally wanted to strangle her. She was an incredibly selfish heroine at times and there were moments I was surprised I even liked her, but we eventually learn what fuels the fiery wall she has built around her heart. It is obvious that both men love her and she loves them, but which one will eventually tear down her defenses?
❝I let you run away but my heart won’t oblige me. You haunt the world inside me,” he whispers. “I covet your attention Clara and I'm willing to invade your life, because eventually you will yield to me. ❞Here's MY cast:
Don’t cheat yourself; snatch this little gem up when it is released on October 25, 2013. Trust me, you will love every minute of it!
✳✳ Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.
✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews
___________________________________________________
If you like this type of book, you might enjoy one of these groups. Check us out!
Menage Readers
Erotic Enchants
Bookie Nookie's Erotic Lending Group
Want to read
March 10, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/25/2019)! 🎁
June 4, 2017
ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review for SMI Bookclub.
I will be the first to admit that I wasn’t sure that to think coming into this book. I read the blurb, and while it intrigued me, I wasn’t hooked. Whew…..was I ever wrong! Imagine this. You are just sitting there, moseying along, minding your own business, then WHAM! Total book punch. Take all your expectations and throw them right out the window. Grab your preconceived notions and prepare to be rocked. This book had depth, ridiculous amounts of swoon, slightly screwed yet stable friendships, and an eight year old you will want to adopt. This was my first book from this author, to say I was blown away is a severe understatement.
Why does this man smell so delicious and why does he make my blood boil?
If ever a book so fully encompassed its’ title, this would be it. Tug of War is the story of Clara and Sawyer, Clara and Sawyer and Allie, Clara and Allie, and Clara and Dom. Sound confusing? You will find yourself switching teams, screaming at Clara, wanting to hug her, hell, wanting to hug them all. There is so much back story into these characters, but it really needs to be read in succession to do it justice.
“I want more than just your body and I’m willing to wait until you’ll give it.”
Dom. Oh Dom <3 He comes off as cocky, arrogant, and self assured. But underneath those layers is just a man who wants to love this woman. This strong, yet fragile and broken infuriating woman. For a man who has it all, he just wants what money cannot buy: love. To the business world be may seem calm and collected, but factor Clara into the equation and he becomes completely unhinged! Not in an abusive way, just in a crazy alpha male in love way. You know, the best way.
“I’m not a cheap lay Clara. I don’t want one night, I want all of them.”
Words just simply flow out of this man’s mouth, that were you not there to witness, you would never expect it. I won’t lie and say that he is perfect, in fact, he is far from it! There are things that happen towards the end that I am not happy with. Not on a storyline level, but the character himself. Were I to come face to face with him, you know, if he were real, I would slap him. Then jump his bones. Then slap him again. That’s just how I roll. But he would deserve it, and he would know why. Through all the passion, love, and friendship in this book, one of the main themes is miscommunication. Ugh….. Assumptions, insecurity, fear, and distrust all rule emotions in this book. It is portrayed so deliciously and real that you will find yourself simultaneously furiously turning the page and at the same time not wanting it to be over. This is how well K. Larsen weaves this tale. You don’t know whether you are coming or going, you just know you don’t want to stop!
“Trust me, when I woke up today, I had plans to be awesome, but…shit happens.”
I highly recommend this book and it is a definite 5 star read for me!
I will be the first to admit that I wasn’t sure that to think coming into this book. I read the blurb, and while it intrigued me, I wasn’t hooked. Whew…..was I ever wrong! Imagine this. You are just sitting there, moseying along, minding your own business, then WHAM! Total book punch. Take all your expectations and throw them right out the window. Grab your preconceived notions and prepare to be rocked. This book had depth, ridiculous amounts of swoon, slightly screwed yet stable friendships, and an eight year old you will want to adopt. This was my first book from this author, to say I was blown away is a severe understatement.
Why does this man smell so delicious and why does he make my blood boil?
If ever a book so fully encompassed its’ title, this would be it. Tug of War is the story of Clara and Sawyer, Clara and Sawyer and Allie, Clara and Allie, and Clara and Dom. Sound confusing? You will find yourself switching teams, screaming at Clara, wanting to hug her, hell, wanting to hug them all. There is so much back story into these characters, but it really needs to be read in succession to do it justice.
“I want more than just your body and I’m willing to wait until you’ll give it.”
Dom. Oh Dom <3 He comes off as cocky, arrogant, and self assured. But underneath those layers is just a man who wants to love this woman. This strong, yet fragile and broken infuriating woman. For a man who has it all, he just wants what money cannot buy: love. To the business world be may seem calm and collected, but factor Clara into the equation and he becomes completely unhinged! Not in an abusive way, just in a crazy alpha male in love way. You know, the best way.
“I’m not a cheap lay Clara. I don’t want one night, I want all of them.”
Words just simply flow out of this man’s mouth, that were you not there to witness, you would never expect it. I won’t lie and say that he is perfect, in fact, he is far from it! There are things that happen towards the end that I am not happy with. Not on a storyline level, but the character himself. Were I to come face to face with him, you know, if he were real, I would slap him. Then jump his bones. Then slap him again. That’s just how I roll. But he would deserve it, and he would know why. Through all the passion, love, and friendship in this book, one of the main themes is miscommunication. Ugh….. Assumptions, insecurity, fear, and distrust all rule emotions in this book. It is portrayed so deliciously and real that you will find yourself simultaneously furiously turning the page and at the same time not wanting it to be over. This is how well K. Larsen weaves this tale. You don’t know whether you are coming or going, you just know you don’t want to stop!
“Trust me, when I woke up today, I had plans to be awesome, but…shit happens.”
I highly recommend this book and it is a definite 5 star read for me!
November 14, 2013
4/5 hearts
***I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review***
Honesty is the best policy right? or so I have been told repeatedly growing up so I am going to be completely and totally honest.
Starting out I have never read any of the authors work. I chat with her on twitter and she's funny and she calls me a hoe and I am ok with that. Of course she had asked me to read her other books and like me I said suuure but then blog tours and life got in the way and I just couldn't.
So I get an email from her and by far one of the funniest asking me to PLEASE read her new book coming out soon. I feel bad cuz I really love her so I said ok send it now and I will and I did and OMG!!!
WTF! I am still in I don't even know maybe shock
elation
happiness
anger
sadness
Too many damn feels!
I read devoured this book in one day! Like I was so sucked in it was surreal. But its real and the characters, ok well the main character felt real. Right from the jump I was feeling her. I love a strong, broken, kind hearted, single mom bitch of a woman protagonist and Clara is all of that and much more. Her story has drama and depth, secrets and lies. There were times that she infuriated me, times that she had me laughing and times I just wanted to hug her. Her story as a single mom and why she is made me love her.
She owns a tattoo parlor Bloodlines with her BFF, roommate and sometimes lover Sawyer. He is a great guy and not the father of Allie (her kid) but, he is Allie has ever known and her adores both of them. Tattooed, tall, rides a bike, great guy who loves her kid and her unconditionally, knows how to fuck and fucks her hard and rough.
is it hot in here?
Yeah, well you know it wouldn't be much fun if all we had was one guy to read about so enter Dominic. I wanted to not like this guy, when he was first introduced I was like what a jerk. Think alpha male type. You know the kind that know what they want and will do whatever to get it. That is him. Let me tell you there were a few times I was like he is an ass! but he makes up for it. After I began to like him Clara does some shit and OMG.Then the tug of war begins.
She goes between Sawyer and Dominic and FINALLY when I think okay this bitch has it all under control her lies come spilling forth setting in motion a gigantic clusterfuck of craziness. I was like HOLY SHIT WOMAN! of course there was a point I was pissed off at Dominic.
I can not tell you what happens all I can say is that you really need to get this book and read it. Clara may be maddening but I understood her. I have been in some shitty situations so I got where she was coming from. I understood why things she thought she did when she was younger was necessary at the time. I loved that she took responsibility and tried to make things better.
K.Larsen did a wonderful job of slowly exposing Clara's past, making me want to continue reading to find out what happens next. I liked that it wasn't all put out on the table before me. It was set up in courses. This way my palette was ready for the next taste and I could savor it.
I like drama and K. Larsen delivers. In many scenes I didn't know if I wanted to slap Clara, hug her, or shake her and tell her to quit playing around with everyone's lives. Same with Dominic. There were times I wanted to slap the crap out of him but others I wanted to devour him. Sawyer was my saving grace and I was happy with him for the most part. I mean c'mon he is almost too perfect. I loved that he is a great guy and glad he comes to his senses he needed to do that for himself and for Clara to stop being so damn dependent on him. In the end this is a great book about life and choices. Clara's past is a part of her and even though she did certain things to escape it one way or another it will catch up with you. Learning and growing from one's mistakes is hard but, it is up to us to take those lessons and use them for the bettering of ourselves.
***I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review***
Honesty is the best policy right? or so I have been told repeatedly growing up so I am going to be completely and totally honest.
Starting out I have never read any of the authors work. I chat with her on twitter and she's funny and she calls me a hoe and I am ok with that. Of course she had asked me to read her other books and like me I said suuure but then blog tours and life got in the way and I just couldn't.
So I get an email from her and by far one of the funniest asking me to PLEASE read her new book coming out soon. I feel bad cuz I really love her so I said ok send it now and I will and I did and OMG!!!
WTF! I am still in I don't even know maybe shock
elation
happiness
anger
sadness
Too many damn feels!
I read devoured this book in one day! Like I was so sucked in it was surreal. But its real and the characters, ok well the main character felt real. Right from the jump I was feeling her. I love a strong, broken, kind hearted, single mom bitch of a woman protagonist and Clara is all of that and much more. Her story has drama and depth, secrets and lies. There were times that she infuriated me, times that she had me laughing and times I just wanted to hug her. Her story as a single mom and why she is made me love her.
She owns a tattoo parlor Bloodlines with her BFF, roommate and sometimes lover Sawyer. He is a great guy and not the father of Allie (her kid) but, he is Allie has ever known and her adores both of them. Tattooed, tall, rides a bike, great guy who loves her kid and her unconditionally, knows how to fuck and fucks her hard and rough.
is it hot in here?
Yeah, well you know it wouldn't be much fun if all we had was one guy to read about so enter Dominic. I wanted to not like this guy, when he was first introduced I was like what a jerk. Think alpha male type. You know the kind that know what they want and will do whatever to get it. That is him. Let me tell you there were a few times I was like he is an ass! but he makes up for it. After I began to like him Clara does some shit and OMG.Then the tug of war begins.
She goes between Sawyer and Dominic and FINALLY when I think okay this bitch has it all under control her lies come spilling forth setting in motion a gigantic clusterfuck of craziness. I was like HOLY SHIT WOMAN! of course there was a point I was pissed off at Dominic.
I can not tell you what happens all I can say is that you really need to get this book and read it. Clara may be maddening but I understood her. I have been in some shitty situations so I got where she was coming from. I understood why things she thought she did when she was younger was necessary at the time. I loved that she took responsibility and tried to make things better.
K.Larsen did a wonderful job of slowly exposing Clara's past, making me want to continue reading to find out what happens next. I liked that it wasn't all put out on the table before me. It was set up in courses. This way my palette was ready for the next taste and I could savor it.
I like drama and K. Larsen delivers. In many scenes I didn't know if I wanted to slap Clara, hug her, or shake her and tell her to quit playing around with everyone's lives. Same with Dominic. There were times I wanted to slap the crap out of him but others I wanted to devour him. Sawyer was my saving grace and I was happy with him for the most part. I mean c'mon he is almost too perfect. I loved that he is a great guy and glad he comes to his senses he needed to do that for himself and for Clara to stop being so damn dependent on him. In the end this is a great book about life and choices. Clara's past is a part of her and even though she did certain things to escape it one way or another it will catch up with you. Learning and growing from one's mistakes is hard but, it is up to us to take those lessons and use them for the bettering of ourselves.
September 12, 2013
'Everything turns to crap and its all my fault'
Clara Lord is the owner of Bloodlines tattoo parlour. Straight away you meet this crazy lady. You will love her, hate her, want to punch her, shake her and cuddle her.
Dominic Napoli is a relentless suit wearing, real estate mogul and absolutely gorgeous guy, who is intrigued by Clara.
Sawyer is a hot looking bad boy who isn't really bad at all he's 6ft 2 with muscles tattoos and piercings, did I mention he's gorgeous too? Sawyer loves Clara and you see this from the beginning.
These are 3 of the main characters, I don't want to tell you about them all as I don't want to ruin any surprises along the way.
This book is amazing! The characters are so real you read the words and the movie plays in your head. I went through many emotions with the characters, I was never bored and never scanned through any of it. Reading this I expect you think it's a love triangle but its more like an octagon with lots of surprises along the way. There's plenty of smiling , laughing out loud (which my husband finds crazy! ) huffing and sniffling.
So the story jumps right in, there's no waiting until the 4th chapter to know where you are. You learn of Clara's personality straight away and her dislike of Dominic, Clara has pure hatred for wealth and all that comes with it, she is seriously crazy! She calls him a 'Perv' but then drinks the wine he sends over then finds herself drunk outside holding onto a wall, dizziness taking over. Dominic asks if she can stand? Her reply 'of course I can you turd!' Instantly I loved her and her typical funny rantings of 'hoes before bros' and 'I hate him'.
I really can't explain how much I loved this story, everything is perfect in it. The right amount of smiles, laughter, anger, tears, fun and the right amount of sex scenes. I love the characters and have major book hangover right now!
I think you have a forever fan here Katie! 5 stars for sure.
September 13, 2013
I had the absolute pleasure of beta reading Tug of War, and would without doubt, recommend to other people!
I was sucked into and hooked on the crazy live's of Clara, Dom and Sawyer from page one!
Reading Tug of War literally had me all over the place! Going from laughing out loud, to crying, to having butterflies in my tummy, all within a few pages!
Katie's writing is fantastic, and character development spot on!
I went through Tug of War constantly changing my opinion of each of the three main characters, because of their crazy antics, but honestly loved them all by the end of the book!
It's crazy, it's funny, it's emotional and it's super HOT! Definitely worth 5*s!
I was sucked into and hooked on the crazy live's of Clara, Dom and Sawyer from page one!
Reading Tug of War literally had me all over the place! Going from laughing out loud, to crying, to having butterflies in my tummy, all within a few pages!
Katie's writing is fantastic, and character development spot on!
I went through Tug of War constantly changing my opinion of each of the three main characters, because of their crazy antics, but honestly loved them all by the end of the book!
It's crazy, it's funny, it's emotional and it's super HOT! Definitely worth 5*s!
February 6, 2014
**KIM'S REVIEW**
*3.5 Stars*
“You will hate me, love or love to hate me but either way it doesn’t matter. Everything I touch turns to crap and its all my fault.”
Clara has been on the run from her horrible past for years. She’s trying to do what’s best to protect her and her daughter, Allie. She currently owns a tattoo parlor with her best friend, Sawyer, who also happens to live with her. Clara and Sawyer have a friends with benefits type deal. Even though Sawyer wants more but Clara just can’t seem to give it to him.
“How could I not have fallen in love with this man? Something in me must be very, very broken.”
She knows he’s the perfect man but you can’t force yourself to love someone in that way. The heart wants, what the heart wants!
“I never took you for a below-the-belt fighter.”
“I’m not above fighting dirty for what I want.”
Enter real estate mogul, Dominic Napoli. The minute she meets Dom, Clara knows is he is everything her past represents and she tries to push him way.
“Money doesn’t equal happiness Mr. Napoli, It creates a prison that you’re forced to conform to.”
However, their connection to one another is hard to deny. Clara wants to have a one-night stand while Dom has other plans…
“I’m not a cheap lay Clara. I don’t want one night, I want all of them.”
Clara is scared that if she’s seen in public eye with him, the past she has been trying so hard to hide from may find her. So she tries to stay away from him and even goes as far as starting a real relationship with Sawyer.
“Trust me, when I woke up today, I had plans to be awesome, but…shit happens.”
But sometimes temptation is a bitch…
“I’d like to bring you to the edge with my fingers. Then with my tongue and…then…with my cock.”
What will happen when shit gets real and you have no choice but to stop running from your past? When all your secrets are exposed? Who will be the man to stand by her? More importantly, who will be the man she chooses in the end?
“Oh, I do charity work. I volunteer my opinion almost every day!”
I really wanted to love this book but certain scenes fell flat for me. Even around 80% or so it got really intense and then it just sort of fizzled.
In the beginning, some of the things Dom did was a bit creepy and a little “a$$holish” but she didn’t let it bother her. I love alpha males but I’m not sure if he had me completely sold. There were parts where I did love him and others not so much. At one point he gets really mad at her over something and it just didn’t feel right to me. The way he spoke to her was awful and she just let it go thinking it was all of her fault so she deserved it. I honestly felt that she was upfront with him in the beginning saying it was hard to talk about her past. He shouldn’t just expect for her to be up front with everything so quickly. I felt like once they were finally in a relationship it was to fast paced for me.
I adored Sawyer. I really did! But you could tell that even though Clara loved him, she was just using him for comfort and sex. I felt bad for him. L But at one point, something that happens between them felt off to me.
With that being said, you should definitely take a chance on this book. It had me pulled me in from the beginning and I finished it within a couple hours. I also understand a certain someone is getting a book next and I can’t wait to read it!
“I’ve decided that life is all about ass. You’re either coercing it, laughing it off, kicking it, kissing it, busting it or trying to get a piece of it. Unless you’re me, then you just are one.”
I received and ARC in exchange for an honest review.
*3.5 Stars*
“You will hate me, love or love to hate me but either way it doesn’t matter. Everything I touch turns to crap and its all my fault.”
Clara has been on the run from her horrible past for years. She’s trying to do what’s best to protect her and her daughter, Allie. She currently owns a tattoo parlor with her best friend, Sawyer, who also happens to live with her. Clara and Sawyer have a friends with benefits type deal. Even though Sawyer wants more but Clara just can’t seem to give it to him.
“How could I not have fallen in love with this man? Something in me must be very, very broken.”
She knows he’s the perfect man but you can’t force yourself to love someone in that way. The heart wants, what the heart wants!
“I never took you for a below-the-belt fighter.”
“I’m not above fighting dirty for what I want.”
Enter real estate mogul, Dominic Napoli. The minute she meets Dom, Clara knows is he is everything her past represents and she tries to push him way.
“Money doesn’t equal happiness Mr. Napoli, It creates a prison that you’re forced to conform to.”
However, their connection to one another is hard to deny. Clara wants to have a one-night stand while Dom has other plans…
“I’m not a cheap lay Clara. I don’t want one night, I want all of them.”
Clara is scared that if she’s seen in public eye with him, the past she has been trying so hard to hide from may find her. So she tries to stay away from him and even goes as far as starting a real relationship with Sawyer.
“Trust me, when I woke up today, I had plans to be awesome, but…shit happens.”
But sometimes temptation is a bitch…
“I’d like to bring you to the edge with my fingers. Then with my tongue and…then…with my cock.”
What will happen when shit gets real and you have no choice but to stop running from your past? When all your secrets are exposed? Who will be the man to stand by her? More importantly, who will be the man she chooses in the end?
“Oh, I do charity work. I volunteer my opinion almost every day!”
I really wanted to love this book but certain scenes fell flat for me. Even around 80% or so it got really intense and then it just sort of fizzled.
In the beginning, some of the things Dom did was a bit creepy and a little “a$$holish” but she didn’t let it bother her. I love alpha males but I’m not sure if he had me completely sold. There were parts where I did love him and others not so much. At one point he gets really mad at her over something and it just didn’t feel right to me. The way he spoke to her was awful and she just let it go thinking it was all of her fault so she deserved it. I honestly felt that she was upfront with him in the beginning saying it was hard to talk about her past. He shouldn’t just expect for her to be up front with everything so quickly. I felt like once they were finally in a relationship it was to fast paced for me.
I adored Sawyer. I really did! But you could tell that even though Clara loved him, she was just using him for comfort and sex. I felt bad for him. L But at one point, something that happens between them felt off to me.
With that being said, you should definitely take a chance on this book. It had me pulled me in from the beginning and I finished it within a couple hours. I also understand a certain someone is getting a book next and I can’t wait to read it!
“I’ve decided that life is all about ass. You’re either coercing it, laughing it off, kicking it, kissing it, busting it or trying to get a piece of it. Unless you’re me, then you just are one.”
I received and ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2013
Reviewer: Jess (Magic Within the Pages)
For those of you not familiar with my reviews I should let you know I HATE SPOILERS! I won't tell you much about a book because I'm a fan of going into books blind. I'll often avoid reading the blurb or I'll read the blurb, purchase the book, categorise it and then leave it in my library until I can't remember what it's about anymore. It's just way more fun for me that way and I highly recommend it!
Tug of War by K. Larsen is the kind of book that will bring you relief after a long stretch of same old same olds.
Clara Lord is the owner of a tattoo parlour with a beautiful and fulfilling life but a hidden past. When she meets Dominic Napoli on a weekend away with her girlfriends everything is turned upside down and she's made to not only come clean but assess herself and make some serious changes.
When I read the prologue I fell in love with Clara instantly! She seemed a strong character who knew herself and was unapologetic about who she is... but then I nearly got lost at "Everything I touch turns to crap and it's all my fault". My first thought at that was that I may be encountering another character who has so much potential but just ends up whinny and self-doubting. My second thought was that I was walking into another book that hinges around a character who's created a ridiculous misunderstanding that needs to remain unresolved until the end. Is anyone with me? It's just an overused lazy plot ploy if you ask me and oh so frustrating for the reader who's screaming at the character, "Are you truly that stupid! Get a backbone! Own your mistakes! Stand up for yourself!"
I digress. Two minutes into the next chapter and I was HOOKED! It had me up way past my bed time and then reaching for my iPhone (don't ask) as soon as I woke in the morning.
This book was just absolutely delightful! The characters were well developed and realistic. I loved Clara and really wanted to see her do well and Larsen delivered! What a breath of fresh air!
The plot drops were delivered with perfect timing. It was like, "Pow! You thought you knew but you didn't know! Take that!" So well done!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. Overall, an easy read with delightful characters that you want to spend your time with. Just brilliant!
For those of you not familiar with my reviews I should let you know I HATE SPOILERS! I won't tell you much about a book because I'm a fan of going into books blind. I'll often avoid reading the blurb or I'll read the blurb, purchase the book, categorise it and then leave it in my library until I can't remember what it's about anymore. It's just way more fun for me that way and I highly recommend it!
Tug of War by K. Larsen is the kind of book that will bring you relief after a long stretch of same old same olds.
Clara Lord is the owner of a tattoo parlour with a beautiful and fulfilling life but a hidden past. When she meets Dominic Napoli on a weekend away with her girlfriends everything is turned upside down and she's made to not only come clean but assess herself and make some serious changes.
When I read the prologue I fell in love with Clara instantly! She seemed a strong character who knew herself and was unapologetic about who she is... but then I nearly got lost at "Everything I touch turns to crap and it's all my fault". My first thought at that was that I may be encountering another character who has so much potential but just ends up whinny and self-doubting. My second thought was that I was walking into another book that hinges around a character who's created a ridiculous misunderstanding that needs to remain unresolved until the end. Is anyone with me? It's just an overused lazy plot ploy if you ask me and oh so frustrating for the reader who's screaming at the character, "Are you truly that stupid! Get a backbone! Own your mistakes! Stand up for yourself!"
I digress. Two minutes into the next chapter and I was HOOKED! It had me up way past my bed time and then reaching for my iPhone (don't ask) as soon as I woke in the morning.
This book was just absolutely delightful! The characters were well developed and realistic. I loved Clara and really wanted to see her do well and Larsen delivered! What a breath of fresh air!
The plot drops were delivered with perfect timing. It was like, "Pow! You thought you knew but you didn't know! Take that!" So well done!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. Overall, an easy read with delightful characters that you want to spend your time with. Just brilliant!
January 3, 2014
We were given the chance to review this book, didn't know what was thrown at us but once we dive into the book, omg...it was great, just couldn't stop swimming deeper for more. We couldn't reach the shore until the end of the book.
The beginning definitely captures you in and keeps your curious mind going..keeps teasing you as you just want to find out if they get together or not. Feels like the Clara and Dominic are playing mind games with us as well as between them.
Clara is hiding and running away from a big secret that she refuse to share with anyone she doesn't trust in order to protect her little girl and herself. She finally settle down in Virginia, with her dream job, having her own tattoo parlor, life is good as it is for Clara until one weekend with her girls out in Miami. She bumps into Mr hot and rich Dominic Napoli, actually he was the on stalking her, he just finds Clara interesting and intriguing and he's just want her. Until fortunately he's Clara no go type, she's been there once and refuse to go back again and gives Dominic the cold shoulder as she is only there for the weekend. What she doesn't know is Dominic isn't one that gives up easily.
Obviously there is a big unexpected turn towards the end of the story that, will have you screaming what! it was shocking twist! I found the beginning was intense and intriguing but it went really quick towards the end and Dominic's change of behavior was a little unexpected as he helped her out but he listen to Charlie which i thought...what, where did that come from. However, over i did enjoy this story and was grateful i came across it.
Clara live her life protecting and hiding and putting lies after lies to secure everything but we all know the truth as to come out someday and when it does it bite us in the butt.
This story will keep you hooked until the very end, until you find out all the hidden secrets and if Dominic manage change Clare that his kind is not all the same. Has Clara finally found the one she can trust and not live a life full of lies and fear...You will all have to read and find out yourself. It will not disappoint!
The beginning definitely captures you in and keeps your curious mind going..keeps teasing you as you just want to find out if they get together or not. Feels like the Clara and Dominic are playing mind games with us as well as between them.
Clara is hiding and running away from a big secret that she refuse to share with anyone she doesn't trust in order to protect her little girl and herself. She finally settle down in Virginia, with her dream job, having her own tattoo parlor, life is good as it is for Clara until one weekend with her girls out in Miami. She bumps into Mr hot and rich Dominic Napoli, actually he was the on stalking her, he just finds Clara interesting and intriguing and he's just want her. Until fortunately he's Clara no go type, she's been there once and refuse to go back again and gives Dominic the cold shoulder as she is only there for the weekend. What she doesn't know is Dominic isn't one that gives up easily.
Obviously there is a big unexpected turn towards the end of the story that, will have you screaming what! it was shocking twist! I found the beginning was intense and intriguing but it went really quick towards the end and Dominic's change of behavior was a little unexpected as he helped her out but he listen to Charlie which i thought...what, where did that come from. However, over i did enjoy this story and was grateful i came across it.
Clara live her life protecting and hiding and putting lies after lies to secure everything but we all know the truth as to come out someday and when it does it bite us in the butt.
This story will keep you hooked until the very end, until you find out all the hidden secrets and if Dominic manage change Clare that his kind is not all the same. Has Clara finally found the one she can trust and not live a life full of lies and fear...You will all have to read and find out yourself. It will not disappoint!
September 21, 2014
This was a recommended read from Book Bub and so I gave it a shot. I didn't care for it.
The main character, Clara is unlikable. She is so clearly a user that it's hard to ever feel bad for her or root for her. The author tries to sell this by constantly having Clara let us know she is selfish and a bitch but she neglects to give us hints of underlying character traits that would give us some empathy for her. I get that her secrets are supposed to do that but I still never liked Clara.
Dom also doesn't quite come together for me. Clara cuts him flat when they meet really giving no chemistry or connection to work with, however, he just keeps coming on. I didn't feel the give and pull of sexual tension as much as just being left wondering why he is so drawn to her.
I rolled with all of this but every time Clara sleeps with Sawyer I like her less and towards the end when Dom's behavior finally does a 180 I'm left wondering why now when he finally has all he wants. Dom believing anything Charlie has to say just doesn't jive and Sawyer's allusion to something not being right sets us up for not trusting Dom's motives.
This story just didn't come together for me. I think a good editor might have called on some rewrites that would have made for a story we could connect to emotionally.
The main character, Clara is unlikable. She is so clearly a user that it's hard to ever feel bad for her or root for her. The author tries to sell this by constantly having Clara let us know she is selfish and a bitch but she neglects to give us hints of underlying character traits that would give us some empathy for her. I get that her secrets are supposed to do that but I still never liked Clara.
Dom also doesn't quite come together for me. Clara cuts him flat when they meet really giving no chemistry or connection to work with, however, he just keeps coming on. I didn't feel the give and pull of sexual tension as much as just being left wondering why he is so drawn to her.
I rolled with all of this but every time Clara sleeps with Sawyer I like her less and towards the end when Dom's behavior finally does a 180 I'm left wondering why now when he finally has all he wants. Dom believing anything Charlie has to say just doesn't jive and Sawyer's allusion to something not being right sets us up for not trusting Dom's motives.
This story just didn't come together for me. I think a good editor might have called on some rewrites that would have made for a story we could connect to emotionally.
November 3, 2013
It's hard to truly live when you are lying to everyone, including yourself. Clara has to lie to save not only herself but her daughter. Clara thinks she is safe living far away from her old life and doing what she loves. Living with her best friend and business partner. Everything is happy, safe, and routine...until Domini Napoli finds her in one of his clubs. That's when her life flipped and the real game of tug of war begins. This story really pulled at my heart so many times and in so many ways. I understand why Clara did what she did and when you find out what really happened ...WOAH talk about mind blown. Then the reaction of a certain person...this girl was in need of a little anger management!! Tug of War is a fantastic read! I was hooked, I just had to find out what her secrets were, what was going to happen with her and Sawyer? What was going to happen with her and Dom? How was her past going to affect her future? Such a GREAT read!! Without question FIVE STARS!
http://booksbestiesandbooze.blogspot.com
http://booksbestiesandbooze.blogspot.com
November 4, 2013
This book is the easiest 5 stars I've given!! This story is about Clara a lost soul who needs healing and to find who she truly is. She has endured so much hurt and pain she doesn't know if she'll ever recover. She has an amazing daughter and a man that loves her but why is that not enough? In her life she is content but she feels like something is missing. When the hot rich Dom walks in her life wanting to fill that void. Clara doesn't have one but two men who adore her but that's still not enough! This book gave me a crazy ride of emotions I hated Clara but felt her pain loved Sawyer and ached for him. Hated Dom but fell in love with him. This story was wrote to perfection and does not disappoint! One of my favorite reads of the year.... K. Larsen is an amazing writer and can't wait to read more would really like a book for sawyer just saying ;)
~Raquel~
~Raquel~
January 26, 2014
I received a free download of this book from Story Cartel, thank you!
I enjoyed this book. I will admit that at first I thought, "Oh man, another 50 Shades/Bared to You knockoff...ridiculously rich guy pursues 'average' girl for crazy sex...blah blah, been there done that." But since I wanted to follow through with my obligation to review the book in exchange for getting it free, I kept on reading. I was glad I did.
Clara is far from naïve, and I both liked her and disliked her. I liked how she was strong, but disliked how she treated both Sawyer and Dom. (The title is certainly appropriate.)
I thought I had it all figured out who was Allie's biological father, so the twist at the end was a nice surprise.
Overall a great read.
I have read that Sawyer's story is being written, and I will be interested to read it when it comes out.
I enjoyed this book. I will admit that at first I thought, "Oh man, another 50 Shades/Bared to You knockoff...ridiculously rich guy pursues 'average' girl for crazy sex...blah blah, been there done that." But since I wanted to follow through with my obligation to review the book in exchange for getting it free, I kept on reading. I was glad I did.
Clara is far from naïve, and I both liked her and disliked her. I liked how she was strong, but disliked how she treated both Sawyer and Dom. (The title is certainly appropriate.)
I thought I had it all figured out who was Allie's biological father, so the twist at the end was a nice surprise.
Overall a great read.
I have read that Sawyer's story is being written, and I will be interested to read it when it comes out.
Read
January 26, 2015So I love K. Larsen. In the middle of reading this I voxed her and told her I Hated CLARA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hated her. You can tell its a good book when it elicits an emotion from you like that. This book was an awesome quick read and not your run of the mill romance. The main character is real and flawed, which I love. I mean we all do stupid things, so... Then you hear her story and you feel bad for her, then you hope for her.
I got an ARC because K. Larsen is the bomb and did this review because I think others should really read this book. So, do it. It comes out October 25, 2013.
I got an ARC because K. Larsen is the bomb and did this review because I think others should really read this book. So, do it. It comes out October 25, 2013.
May 28, 2014
I was first attracted to this series by a review I saw on a later book in the series. Even though the blurb for this one didn't really "move" me, I thought I would try it.
It moved too slow for my tastes and at times too fast. I didn't hate Clara, I found her childish and annoying. I nearly didn't finish at about 20%, but stuck with it. The book did improve slightly with a twist I didn't anticipate. However, the getting there was at times excruciating. I just couldn't connect with Clara at all. For 32, she acted 18. I could not figure out how any man would be attracted to her let alone two.
It moved too slow for my tastes and at times too fast. I didn't hate Clara, I found her childish and annoying. I nearly didn't finish at about 20%, but stuck with it. The book did improve slightly with a twist I didn't anticipate. However, the getting there was at times excruciating. I just couldn't connect with Clara at all. For 32, she acted 18. I could not figure out how any man would be attracted to her let alone two.
July 21, 2014
Not for me
This just was not a read I enjoyed. The relationship between the hero and heroine felt forced from the beginning. They seemed to be crazy about one another but knew little of each other. The cliche like plot didn't help matters. This will not be a series I will recommend or continue.
This just was not a read I enjoyed. The relationship between the hero and heroine felt forced from the beginning. They seemed to be crazy about one another but knew little of each other. The cliche like plot didn't help matters. This will not be a series I will recommend or continue.
October 28, 2013
Great book. Great characters. Could definitely have been a little longer. Loved the character & plot development, but then seemed rushed at the end.
December 18, 2014
Ciara was a bit maddening, but at least she owned up to her faults.
August 26, 2013
Um...Yup!
Nothin like a rebellious woman to keep me on the edge.
Full review to come.
Nothin like a rebellious woman to keep me on the edge.
Full review to come.
November 1, 2017
Having read a few of K Larsen's books now I know I like the way she writes. Her books tend to draw me in and keep me capitative without trying hard at all. Tug of War was one of her earlier pieces so I knew it would probably be different to The Tutor and I was right, although there is still a dark element there.
Its rare when I have issues with both of the characters in a book and still enjoy the story, but I did have that with Tug of War (Although it would not put me off reading more of the series like I intend). Clara was likeable enough but I didn't like how she used Sawyer all the time. What was worse she consciously did it in the book at times which I felt made it worse. I understood her reasoning, but it made me dislike her. Even at the end after she 'works' through stuff I didn't have a lot of forgiveness for her. Dom is a typical alpha male, I don't have issues with alphas (Let's be honest at least 50% of new adult books have alpha men) but I found in the beginning much like Clara his actions were beyond creepy. In fact I found him so dominating and creepy I couldn't get past how she was attracted to him. As the book went on obviously things changed and even he summed up why he was the way he was, although again I can't justify the initial meeting (What guy undresses a woman, a stranger too completely wile she is drunk and feels that's ok?).
Story wise I liked the pace, liked the dark undertone and the side stories although was a little peeved when the big reveal towards the end hit regarding Allie. Did we really need that? Still, the story worked it had a good ending and as I said it kept me interested. Not my favourite work by K Larsen but I will definitely read more of her books and more of this series.
This book was available on Kindle Unlimited, so a free read if you subscribe - 3.5 stars.
Its rare when I have issues with both of the characters in a book and still enjoy the story, but I did have that with Tug of War (Although it would not put me off reading more of the series like I intend). Clara was likeable enough but I didn't like how she used Sawyer all the time. What was worse she consciously did it in the book at times which I felt made it worse. I understood her reasoning, but it made me dislike her. Even at the end after she 'works' through stuff I didn't have a lot of forgiveness for her. Dom is a typical alpha male, I don't have issues with alphas (Let's be honest at least 50% of new adult books have alpha men) but I found in the beginning much like Clara his actions were beyond creepy. In fact I found him so dominating and creepy I couldn't get past how she was attracted to him. As the book went on obviously things changed and even he summed up why he was the way he was, although again I can't justify the initial meeting (What guy undresses a woman, a stranger too completely wile she is drunk and feels that's ok?).
Story wise I liked the pace, liked the dark undertone and the side stories although was a little peeved when the big reveal towards the end hit regarding Allie. Did we really need that? Still, the story worked it had a good ending and as I said it kept me interested. Not my favourite work by K Larsen but I will definitely read more of her books and more of this series.
This book was available on Kindle Unlimited, so a free read if you subscribe - 3.5 stars.
March 28, 2014
Took me a long time to read this book but I did it. I'm glad I did because I really enjoyed it. My first impressions were how I wanted to slap Clara with a hammer.
"I'm a bitch, I'm a liar and I'm horribly selfish."
You can say that again. This woman was so confused. I did feel bad for her once I learned the truth but it still gave her no right to make the choices that she did when it came to Sawyer and Dom. Oh yes, the Love Triangle. Caught between the man who's been her shelter and safe house and the one who's haunting her desires and dreams. I felt like at times the only brain Clara was using was her damn vagina. She must've been plugged up(pun intended).
Sawyer was her shelter from her horrible past. He's the only person who knew the whole truth except one small detail. Which shocked the shit outta me and disgusted me at the same time. He's her hero, best friend, co-owner of the tattoo parlor they both work in and also the father figure in her daughter's life. Yeah Clara has baggage. Allie has been raised around the tattoo parlor her whole life and is a tough little cookie. She's like a mini Clara. Maybe smarter. Sorry Clara, it took me a while to not wanna kill you. I absolutely hated what went on between Clara and Sawyer. I thought he was too good for her. Although she did make it clear to him she didn't love him that way and he set himself up for the consequences. A true gluten for punishment. I shouldn't say that. He loved her.
"Where do they end, Clara? How many lies are there? Have I ever known you?"
On a night out with her BFFs at a club she meets Creepy McCreeperton, crazy, stalkerish, Rich, Alpha, Dominic Napoli. The first night at this bar Clara is wasted and her friends decide to leave her with Dom. What kind of friends would leave their drunk friend with a complete stranger? Hers did. He takes her back to his hotel, undresses her down to one of his t-shirts and puts her to bed. How thoughtful of this stranger to strip her naked and not even sleep with her. Awkward!! Dom comes out strong which scares the crap outta Clara. The hurtful past and her "I don't commit" sends her running from him. She puts her walls back up and sets her mind that he will never be what she wants. He's not right for her. Only thing Dom always gets what he wants.
"I think about you all the time, Clara. If I could evict you from my head I would have done it a month ago. Why are you so sure you can't be with me?"
Time goes by after the first time they meet and every time after that it sort of how the story goes. Clara unsure of what to do. Wants to try a life with Sawyer but her damn heart and vagina want Dom. My vagina wanted Dom too. I think it's his stalking abilities that did it for me. I know many if you readers love the angst in a love triangle and I think you will enjoy this story. It's very realistic. Oh and then there's also the garbage that needs no spotlight like her waste of space mother and the dynamic duo of scum father and son, Charlie and Daniel. This is my first book by K Larsen and I'm sure I will be reading more of her work. Until next time...Happy Readings❤️
"I'm a bitch, I'm a liar and I'm horribly selfish."
You can say that again. This woman was so confused. I did feel bad for her once I learned the truth but it still gave her no right to make the choices that she did when it came to Sawyer and Dom. Oh yes, the Love Triangle. Caught between the man who's been her shelter and safe house and the one who's haunting her desires and dreams. I felt like at times the only brain Clara was using was her damn vagina. She must've been plugged up(pun intended).
Sawyer was her shelter from her horrible past. He's the only person who knew the whole truth except one small detail. Which shocked the shit outta me and disgusted me at the same time. He's her hero, best friend, co-owner of the tattoo parlor they both work in and also the father figure in her daughter's life. Yeah Clara has baggage. Allie has been raised around the tattoo parlor her whole life and is a tough little cookie. She's like a mini Clara. Maybe smarter. Sorry Clara, it took me a while to not wanna kill you. I absolutely hated what went on between Clara and Sawyer. I thought he was too good for her. Although she did make it clear to him she didn't love him that way and he set himself up for the consequences. A true gluten for punishment. I shouldn't say that. He loved her.
"Where do they end, Clara? How many lies are there? Have I ever known you?"
On a night out with her BFFs at a club she meets Creepy McCreeperton, crazy, stalkerish, Rich, Alpha, Dominic Napoli. The first night at this bar Clara is wasted and her friends decide to leave her with Dom. What kind of friends would leave their drunk friend with a complete stranger? Hers did. He takes her back to his hotel, undresses her down to one of his t-shirts and puts her to bed. How thoughtful of this stranger to strip her naked and not even sleep with her. Awkward!! Dom comes out strong which scares the crap outta Clara. The hurtful past and her "I don't commit" sends her running from him. She puts her walls back up and sets her mind that he will never be what she wants. He's not right for her. Only thing Dom always gets what he wants.
"I think about you all the time, Clara. If I could evict you from my head I would have done it a month ago. Why are you so sure you can't be with me?"
Time goes by after the first time they meet and every time after that it sort of how the story goes. Clara unsure of what to do. Wants to try a life with Sawyer but her damn heart and vagina want Dom. My vagina wanted Dom too. I think it's his stalking abilities that did it for me. I know many if you readers love the angst in a love triangle and I think you will enjoy this story. It's very realistic. Oh and then there's also the garbage that needs no spotlight like her waste of space mother and the dynamic duo of scum father and son, Charlie and Daniel. This is my first book by K Larsen and I'm sure I will be reading more of her work. Until next time...Happy Readings❤️
December 3, 2013
"Tug of War" is an amazing out-of-the-norm story. If you're looking for an innocent girl, and an easy love story, this isn't it. This is real. It's not easy, it's heartbreaking sometimes, and everything falls into place at others. But it keeps you guessing until the very last second.
Lets look at the characters:
Clara, a doesn't take shit from no one, bad ass, opinionated chick, who has an interesting life, and a devastating secret, who I completely adore because in many ways she mirrors myself.
"I’m Clara Lord. I own Bloodline’s Tattoo Parlor, have a filthy mouth, no filter and a really strong objection to bossy idiots, pet names and wealthy men."
(and you my dear are officially my new book-soul-mate)
Then there's Sawyer, my new love, my new book boyfriend, my new favorite guy.. period. Sawyer has so much charisma, cares so deeply about Clara, and has woven himself into a very crucial part of her life.
"He kisses my head and I breathe a sigh of relief as the safety of Sawyer's arms washes over me. He knows all but one of my secrets. Hell, he's really the only person out there that even knows me anymore."
And then.. there's Dominic, the new guy, the rich guy, the guy who won't give up. I should note, that keeping in line with this out-of-the-norm story, that Dominic is an out-of-the-norm rich guy, in the sense that he is way more down to earth than he first comes off.. you'll see.
"The man doesn't give up easily and he sure knows how to keep my interested sparked, I'll give him that."
Now, add in Clara's two best friends, and you get the massive amount of humor involved in "Tug of War".
" 'Cougars? Seriously, since when does thirty-two put you in cougar territory?' I chortle.
'When the boys hitting on you are a decade or more younger than you. Thats when,' she replies."
There's also another very special character, that MAKES this book what it is, but you'll have to read to find out more about her ;)
"Tug of War" kept me on my toes. It had twists I didn't see coming, and the ending is nothing like I have ever read before. Is it a love triangle? Yes, it is at times. Does it end badly?.. Well, don't they all? But does one MAJOR event bring the entirety of this story to its knees. Yes, 1000 times yes.
You will keep guessing until the last page, and even then it's a half bitter sweet/half beautifuly happily-ever-after. I loved EVERY second of this book. I loved how it wasn't like the typical books I read, but it had every element that I want in a story. I adored the characters (AND I'm doing a super-mega-happy dance that Sawyer is getting his own book!!) Not only is the storyline amazing, but the writing is fantastic! I would highly HIGHLY recommend this book, and I can't wait to read more by K. Larsen.
For full review and more reviews please visit: http://illbereading.blogspot.com/2013...
Lets look at the characters:
Clara, a doesn't take shit from no one, bad ass, opinionated chick, who has an interesting life, and a devastating secret, who I completely adore because in many ways she mirrors myself.
"I’m Clara Lord. I own Bloodline’s Tattoo Parlor, have a filthy mouth, no filter and a really strong objection to bossy idiots, pet names and wealthy men."
(and you my dear are officially my new book-soul-mate)
Then there's Sawyer, my new love, my new book boyfriend, my new favorite guy.. period. Sawyer has so much charisma, cares so deeply about Clara, and has woven himself into a very crucial part of her life.
"He kisses my head and I breathe a sigh of relief as the safety of Sawyer's arms washes over me. He knows all but one of my secrets. Hell, he's really the only person out there that even knows me anymore."
And then.. there's Dominic, the new guy, the rich guy, the guy who won't give up. I should note, that keeping in line with this out-of-the-norm story, that Dominic is an out-of-the-norm rich guy, in the sense that he is way more down to earth than he first comes off.. you'll see.
"The man doesn't give up easily and he sure knows how to keep my interested sparked, I'll give him that."
Now, add in Clara's two best friends, and you get the massive amount of humor involved in "Tug of War".
" 'Cougars? Seriously, since when does thirty-two put you in cougar territory?' I chortle.
'When the boys hitting on you are a decade or more younger than you. Thats when,' she replies."
There's also another very special character, that MAKES this book what it is, but you'll have to read to find out more about her ;)
"Tug of War" kept me on my toes. It had twists I didn't see coming, and the ending is nothing like I have ever read before. Is it a love triangle? Yes, it is at times. Does it end badly?.. Well, don't they all? But does one MAJOR event bring the entirety of this story to its knees. Yes, 1000 times yes.
You will keep guessing until the last page, and even then it's a half bitter sweet/half beautifuly happily-ever-after. I loved EVERY second of this book. I loved how it wasn't like the typical books I read, but it had every element that I want in a story. I adored the characters (AND I'm doing a super-mega-happy dance that Sawyer is getting his own book!!) Not only is the storyline amazing, but the writing is fantastic! I would highly HIGHLY recommend this book, and I can't wait to read more by K. Larsen.
For full review and more reviews please visit: http://illbereading.blogspot.com/2013...
April 18, 2014
This is a contemporary-romantic-suspense book, first in the series The Bloodlines. It could be read as a stand alone, but I recommend the second book Objective and I will read the rest of the series when published. This does have some sexual scenes so I would say adults only. This book has so many twists and turns, you never know what will happen next, an exciting read for sure. I was caught up in so many emotions, it captured me from page one. I love stories about women with backbone, ones whom speak their mind, and Clara is one of those women. But Clara hasn't always been the fighter she is now. Her life is based on secrets, maybe? And she isn't who you think she is, maybe? Yes the book keeps you wondering the whole time. I admire her strength, because she has been through hell. And regardless of it all she does have a good heart. I fell in love with the man in her life, and Domini... well, I will take him also. yum.
This is the story about Clara Lord, owner of a tattoo parlor Bloodlines. She is hard core, take no crap and live for herself, kind of woman. She knows she has to make decisions and they are not going to be easy. People are going to get hurt, but she can not help it. Is she selfish, yes at times, but she lives and learns. She describes herself as filthy mouthed, broken filter and has a really strong objection to bossy idiots, pet names and wealthy men. And its true.... or is it?
You can hate her, love her, she really doesn't care either way. She has built up her world to revolve around her secrets and this world is falling apart slowly... all since she met Domini Napoli. The secrets she has held for eight years are slowly coming to surface and she doesn't like it... not one bit.
favorite passages:
"This is turning into a p****** (some might find the author's word choice offending.)match."
"I'm just as surprised as you but I didn't feel the need to pee all over myself to mark my territory."
"I was a god d*** (some might find the author's word choice offending.)ball of tears and blubbered liked an idiot as she tried to peel away from my clinging hands."
"I watch his muscle twitch, like a fool, before screwing my head on straight."
"Oh, I do charity work, I volunteer my opinion almost every day!"
"By the time I get home and load my arms with the twenty or so grocery bags, because like an idiot I refuse to make more than one trip to bring them in."
"PMS," I shrug. "Maybe I"ll slip some Midol in his coffee."
"Sawyer has a sandy vagina. Ignore him."
"Sorry, I really need to start using my filter."
"I never took you for a below-the-belt fighter."
"You haunt the world inside me" he whispers."
"You carry yourself like a lady but have attitude and spunk."
This is the story about Clara Lord, owner of a tattoo parlor Bloodlines. She is hard core, take no crap and live for herself, kind of woman. She knows she has to make decisions and they are not going to be easy. People are going to get hurt, but she can not help it. Is she selfish, yes at times, but she lives and learns. She describes herself as filthy mouthed, broken filter and has a really strong objection to bossy idiots, pet names and wealthy men. And its true.... or is it?
You can hate her, love her, she really doesn't care either way. She has built up her world to revolve around her secrets and this world is falling apart slowly... all since she met Domini Napoli. The secrets she has held for eight years are slowly coming to surface and she doesn't like it... not one bit.
favorite passages:
"This is turning into a p****** (some might find the author's word choice offending.)match."
"I'm just as surprised as you but I didn't feel the need to pee all over myself to mark my territory."
"I was a god d*** (some might find the author's word choice offending.)ball of tears and blubbered liked an idiot as she tried to peel away from my clinging hands."
"I watch his muscle twitch, like a fool, before screwing my head on straight."
"Oh, I do charity work, I volunteer my opinion almost every day!"
"By the time I get home and load my arms with the twenty or so grocery bags, because like an idiot I refuse to make more than one trip to bring them in."
"PMS," I shrug. "Maybe I"ll slip some Midol in his coffee."
"Sawyer has a sandy vagina. Ignore him."
"Sorry, I really need to start using my filter."
"I never took you for a below-the-belt fighter."
"You haunt the world inside me" he whispers."
"You carry yourself like a lady but have attitude and spunk."
January 21, 2015
K.Larsen knows how to write a story that will suck you in from the first few pages... I am not kidding when I tell you, I started this book first thing in the morning and finished before I went to bed. I did not want to put this one down!!!
There were points while reading this book, that I was screaming out loud "NOOO!' or "why?!?!?" And when no one answered me, I knew I had to finish reading is right away. I needed answers to my "noooos" and "whys". Make sure you have plenty of time to read this one. Clear your calendar. Once you start it, you will not want to put it down.
Clara, oh Clara. You will either love her or the her. She is a strong single mother of a sweet little girl. She is fierce, independence and somewhat of a witch. But she is all of these things because of her past. She is running from something or someone who has changed her. Made her who she is now. In my opinion, Clara is somewhat of a mess at times... but she means well in her way. She is afraid of the unknown, she likes things neat and comfortable.
Clara goes way for the weekend to Boston to meet up with girlfriends. While she is at a club, she meets the handsome Dominic. Rich. Handsome. Cocky. Charming Dominic. He tries to hit on Clara, but Clara's claws come out and doesn't want any of his lines. She is not interested in Dom and all that he represents. When Clara and her friends have too much to drink, Dominic swoops in like knight in shinning armor and rescues her.
Clara wakes up the next morning in a strange place and different clothes. A very caring Dom has then care of her. Bet you are thinking this is the start of a beautiful relationship......WRONG!!
Clara and Dom are the two most stubborn and strong willed characters ever!! They will drive you insane (in a good way) with neither or them budging. Time goes by. Weeks and months pass at some points before they see or talk to each other again.
The drama in this book is off the charts. There is never a dull moment! This book has more twists and turns than a soap opera. There is a love triangle, a creepy ex, heartache, paternity issues, abuse, you name it.... and I LOVED it!! K.Larsen mades it work. There is not too many books that the whole combination would work. For me, it worked in this book.
I am looking forward to the rest of the books in this series.
May 24, 2014
This and more reviews at The Book Bar.co
Rating: Well/House
How much do I love this lady lead? Clara is hysterical when you need it and an emotional mess to keep her 'human' and vulnerable. Clara has secrets and wants to keep them that way. She thinks she knows what she wants, but never commits to it.
Clara's life has been on cruise control for the last couple years and avoiding conflict. That is until Dominic, Dom, comes into her life. She tries everything to push him away, his life-style is not for her, but he doesn't deny the fact that there is something between them and pursues her.
Not only does she have a sexy man chasing her, she also has a live-in "friend" who pines for her and stands in as a father figure for her young daughter. Sawyer was honest and raw. It was hard to experience the relationship Clara pretended to have with him.
The climax doesn't come until after the 50% point and this was interesting because everything wrapped up pretty nicely in the end. Tertiary characters come in like a slap to the face; a nice twist to the story-line.
I still have some questions and perhaps they are answered in the next book in the Bloodlines series, Objective, that just came out, March 2014.
Rating: Well/House
How much do I love this lady lead? Clara is hysterical when you need it and an emotional mess to keep her 'human' and vulnerable. Clara has secrets and wants to keep them that way. She thinks she knows what she wants, but never commits to it.
“Trust me, when I woke up today, I had plans to be awesome, but... shit happens,”.... K. Larsen. Tug Of War (Kindle Location 1391).
Clara's life has been on cruise control for the last couple years and avoiding conflict. That is until Dominic, Dom, comes into her life. She tries everything to push him away, his life-style is not for her, but he doesn't deny the fact that there is something between them and pursues her.
I want to slap his pretty face and jump him all at the same time.... Dominic Napoli is an ass and hot and infuriating and sexy and I think I want him. K. Larsen. Tug Of War (Kindle Locations 265-268).
Not only does she have a sexy man chasing her, she also has a live-in "friend" who pines for her and stands in as a father figure for her young daughter. Sawyer was honest and raw. It was hard to experience the relationship Clara pretended to have with him.
“What are we going to do with you?” He chuckles.
“What do you want to do with me?” I purr in his ear. I really have to stop doing this. I’m being careless with a good, decent man but I keep living for today like tomorrow will never come. I’m a horrible, horrible person. K. Larsen. Tug Of War (Kindle Locations 1586-1588).
The climax doesn't come until after the 50% point and this was interesting because everything wrapped up pretty nicely in the end. Tertiary characters come in like a slap to the face; a nice twist to the story-line.
“I... no... this is crazier than a Lifetime movie.” I shake my head at him. K. Larsen. Tug Of War (Kindle Locations 2781-2782).
I still have some questions and perhaps they are answered in the next book in the Bloodlines series, Objective, that just came out, March 2014.
January 30, 2014
Ugh, have you ever read a love-triangle book and just wanted to shake the shit out of the heroine because she's picking the wrong guy? That was this book for me. I wanted to reach through my Kindle, grab Clara by the shoulders and shake her until she couldn't see straight, then I wanted to scream and yell and kick and scream that she's an idiot, a moron. She had everything she could ever want in a man, and she just shoved him to the side like yesterday's trash. Grr!!
True to her word I loved Clara, until I didn't; then I just freaking hated her! Here's what I loved: she's hilarious, unique, confident, witty, strong and good mother. Here's what I hated: she's blind, stupid, naive, dependent, selfish and a liar.
Here's the cliff notes version of Tug of War... Clara has a dirty, gritty, and scary past that she was strong enough to run away from. She took her daughter, Allie, and did everything she could to make sure they were safe. Along the way she meets Sawyer **swoon** and he sweeps her and Allie off their feet. He loves them, protects them, steps in as a father for Allie, he provides for them, and does everything a bad-boy with a rocking bod and good heart should do.
Then, Clara goes and ruins everything when she meets Dominic. Ugh, here's the thing about him... he's arrogant, controlling and snotty. I have no idea what she saw in him, still even two days after finishing the book, I just don't understand. Anyways, I'm ranting... Dominic swoops in and changes everything. He's everything Clara promised herself she would never want again. He's rich, pushy, borderline obsessive and good in bed (about his only redeeming quality).
So there's an HEA but I wasn't really happy with the ending. The book was well written though sometimes a little wordy and repetitive. I laughed out loud a lot, I through my Kindle down more times than I care to count, and I may have even grunted out in frustration. Overall, job well done at making me feel K.Larsen.
So, who do you think she should have picked?
True to her word I loved Clara, until I didn't; then I just freaking hated her! Here's what I loved: she's hilarious, unique, confident, witty, strong and good mother. Here's what I hated: she's blind, stupid, naive, dependent, selfish and a liar.
Here's the cliff notes version of Tug of War... Clara has a dirty, gritty, and scary past that she was strong enough to run away from. She took her daughter, Allie, and did everything she could to make sure they were safe. Along the way she meets Sawyer **swoon** and he sweeps her and Allie off their feet. He loves them, protects them, steps in as a father for Allie, he provides for them, and does everything a bad-boy with a rocking bod and good heart should do.
Then, Clara goes and ruins everything when she meets Dominic. Ugh, here's the thing about him... he's arrogant, controlling and snotty. I have no idea what she saw in him, still even two days after finishing the book, I just don't understand. Anyways, I'm ranting... Dominic swoops in and changes everything. He's everything Clara promised herself she would never want again. He's rich, pushy, borderline obsessive and good in bed (about his only redeeming quality).
So there's an HEA but I wasn't really happy with the ending. The book was well written though sometimes a little wordy and repetitive. I laughed out loud a lot, I through my Kindle down more times than I care to count, and I may have even grunted out in frustration. Overall, job well done at making me feel K.Larsen.
So, who do you think she should have picked?
January 30, 2014
Ugh, have you ever read a love-triangle book and just wanted to shake the shit out of the heroine because she's picking the wrong guy? That was this book for me. I wanted to reach through my Kindle, grab Clara by the shoulders and shake her until she couldn't see straight, then I wanted to scream and yell and kick and scream that she's an idiot, a moron. She had everything she could ever want in a man, and she just shoved him to the side like yesterday's trash. Grr!!
True to her word I loved Clara, until I didn't; then I just freaking hated her! Here's what I loved: she's hilarious, unique, confident, witty, strong and good mother. Here's what I hated: she's blind, stupid, naive, dependent, selfish and a liar.
Here's the cliff notes version of Tug of War... Clara has a dirty, gritty, and scary past that she was strong enough to run away from. She took her daughter, Allie, and did everything she could to make sure they were safe. Along the way she meets Sawyer **swoon** and he sweeps her and Allie off their feet. He loves them, protects them, steps in as a father for Allie, he provides for them, and does everything a bad-boy with a rocking bod and good heart should do.
Then, Clara goes and ruins everything when she meets Dominic. Ugh, here's the thing about him... he's arrogant, controlling and snotty. I have no idea what she saw in him, still even two days after finishing the book, I just don't understand. Anyways, I'm ranting... Dominic swoops in and changes everything. He's everything Clara promised herself she would never want again. He's rich, pushy, borderline obsessive and good in bed (about his only redeeming quality).
So there's an HEA but I wasn't really happy with the ending. The book was well written though sometimes a little wordy and repetitive. I laughed out loud a lot, I through my Kindle down more times than I care to count, and I may have even grunted out in frustration. Overall, job well done at making me feel K.Larsen.
So, who do you think she should have picked?
True to her word I loved Clara, until I didn't; then I just freaking hated her! Here's what I loved: she's hilarious, unique, confident, witty, strong and good mother. Here's what I hated: she's blind, stupid, naive, dependent, selfish and a liar.
Here's the cliff notes version of Tug of War... Clara has a dirty, gritty, and scary past that she was strong enough to run away from. She took her daughter, Allie, and did everything she could to make sure they were safe. Along the way she meets Sawyer **swoon** and he sweeps her and Allie off their feet. He loves them, protects them, steps in as a father for Allie, he provides for them, and does everything a bad-boy with a rocking bod and good heart should do.
Then, Clara goes and ruins everything when she meets Dominic. Ugh, here's the thing about him... he's arrogant, controlling and snotty. I have no idea what she saw in him, still even two days after finishing the book, I just don't understand. Anyways, I'm ranting... Dominic swoops in and changes everything. He's everything Clara promised herself she would never want again. He's rich, pushy, borderline obsessive and good in bed (about his only redeeming quality).
So there's an HEA but I wasn't really happy with the ending. The book was well written though sometimes a little wordy and repetitive. I laughed out loud a lot, I through my Kindle down more times than I care to count, and I may have even grunted out in frustration. Overall, job well done at making me feel K.Larsen.
So, who do you think she should have picked?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews