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Bridgette & Troy's Story

Some secrets can destroy…

Bridgette Schaefer has been through more in her twenty-two years of life than most people survive in a lifetime. Finally, she can see the light at the end of the tunnel and control is within her grasp. With a fresh start ahead, there’s nothing but blank pages to be filled. Unfortunately, a lie by omission quickly weaves itself into a dangerous web of half-truths. As she battles between right and wrong, she discovers that sometimes there is only defeat when it comes to matters of desire.

While others can set you free…

Troy Sorano has one rule – no lies. Yet he’s spent years hiding behind a well-placed mask, forced to hide who he yearns to be. On the outside he’s confident, fun, and sexy-as-sin, but there’s so much more hidden within. When fate intervenes, he can’t help but wonder if Bridgette could be the one to accept him for who he is. As he struggles through his fear of rejection, he discovers he’s not the only one hiding the truth.

Can Bridgette and Troy find what is essential for their happiness before it’s too late?

334 pages, Paperback

First published April 16, 2014

25 people are currently reading
650 people want to read

About the author

L.K. Collins

32 books907 followers
LK Collins is the naughty alter ego for the nternational bestselling author. If you are looking for a scorching read with chemistry so intense it jumps off the pages, then an LK novel is for you. From stand-alones to series, her stories will have you blushing and panting, ready to reread them the moment you’ve finished. The heroes are alpha, demanding, filthy-talking men that will do anything for their girl…or to get them.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
Profile Image for Shayna.
1,812 reviews615 followers
April 18, 2014
L.K. Collins is BURNING UP THE PAGES in Essentialism. It’s sexy, witty, and suspenseful. While reading this story, you can tell that Ms. Collins put her heart and humor into this novel. The writing is very strong, and it flows flawlessly. The Life. Destiny. Fate novels are quality reads that will have you craving your very own love story. These stories keep getting better and better. First we had Fatalism, where I was immediately sucked in to the emotional rollercoaster, that we call Alexa and Vincent’s world. Passionate and intense, it just had me wanting more! Next up was Determinism, Cara and Abel’s story. If it was even possible, Ms. Collins created a story with even more heart, emotion, and heat. That brings us to the gem of a book I have in front of me now, Essentialism, Bridgette and Troy’s story. Here, we have a story about the struggles of relationships when one is forced to not be themselves; a story about growth and accepting who you are, and finding that one person in this world who will love you for you. It is beautiful, it is hella’ sexy, and it contains so much passion, you will not know what to do with yourself.

Bridgette Schaefer just moved into the neighborhood. She is trying to start her life, and job hunting is a top priority for her. Trying to get a hold of her ass of a boyfriend is another priority she can’t seem to shake. Meanwhile, her friendship with the gorgeous, sweet, attending firefighter is growing strong with every text message, every hug, and every sweet kiss on the cheek. Bridgette is so torn between her loyalty and the potential of something that could be really great and really special.

Troy Sorano, this man is SO sexy and SO charming. He has a heart of gold, and he takes care of the people he loves. Troy also has a domineering side, with a fascination with ropes. This is the side of Troy that I think is just down right delicious. He wanted Bridgette the moment he saw her, stealing glances and hugs along the way. When he discovers that she was withholding a certain relationship, he starts to remember his past, and immediately wants to cut all ties with Bridgette, not knowing the depth of feelings he has towards her.

Just when things were going great, an enemy is holding a grudge that could turn deadly. Unexpected circumstances test Bridgette and Troy’s love for one another. Is their love strong enough to conquer all? Will they have to change who they are in order to be together?

I am just blown away that this is L.K. Collin’s third book! The woman can write like she has been in the game for years and years, matching the works of some well-known authors. And as far as writing sex scenes…Ms. Collins is at the top of her game with that aspect. Some scenes in Essentialism were some of the hottest scenes that I have read in a while. I was like a giddy school girl reading these parts over and over again. Without a doubt, I highly recommend this book and this entire series. It has everything I like in an erotic romance. The steam factor is off the charts. The emotion factor will keep you laughing and crying the whole way through. The suspense factor is as gripping as you can get. Cheers to another hit Ms. Collins, and may you bring us many more!

*Gifted copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*

Read more of my reviews at Shayna Renee's Spicy Reads
Profile Image for Bethany.
189 reviews28 followers
May 5, 2014
5+ I can't even. excruciatingly amazing. Review soon.

Essentialism – LK Collins
5+

I can’t even deal. Every book this woman writes just gets better and better. The ‘ Life. Destiny. Fate.’ Series is just simply astonishing. I’m just so lost for words. First of all I want to say that this book deserves more than 5 hearts from me. A-D-O-R-E-D Bridgette and Troy’s story. While this is the 3rd installment in the series, it CAN be read as a standalone as well. However – I don’t recommend this because then you’ll be missing out of Alexa & Vincent, and Cara & Abel. Two stories that you absolutely DON’T want to miss out on.

I know my limits, and what I can handle. You’re a drug I’ve never had and my body has been craving you.


LK Collins just can’t disappoint me. I swear. I know that I will always be a super fangirl for her, because of her way with words (and that she’s a complete darling!). Now I don’t want to give away too much of the story, because seriously… you need to read this. Hands down, without a doubt one of the best books I have EVER read. This book is so intense and emotional you’ll be sure to devour it just as I had.

Essentialism pretty much picks up with the introductions of Bridgette and Troy. Now Bridgette is Alexa’s sister. Alexa is the main character of Fatalism, who is with Vincent. Vincent has a younger brother named Abel, who is in an intoxicating relationship with Cara, Alexa’s best friend. Cara and Abel share their story with Determinism. Now that you’re all caught up with the relationship statuses I can tell you that Bridgette and Troy are phenomenal. Troy just so happens to be a firefighter, who works with Abel. We all know about firefighters in books. There is something about a man with a hot body, tattoos, and dark secrets who is absolutely delicious that will make you drool and then some.

He is essential to my sanity, my well-being, and everything that matters. He is a part of me, has been from the day I met him.


Bridgette and Troy have an undeniable connection. The chemistry that flows between the two is unfathomable. Trying not to give in to the electric touches and lustful glares is hard, especially when you still have a boyfriend. I loved how sincere Bridgette was, along with her strength and sassy attitude. Troy, well seriously… just saying his name is enough. He is THE ultimate perfection in a firefighters form. Yes, I say that with a heavy heart since I claimed Vincent as my favorite love of the series. I still stand by how much I love Vincent, but LK makes it incredibly hard for me to focus when she just keeps on bringing the sexy.


“You promise you’ll always be my sun?
“I promise. You can trust me. Always, Okay? I’ll never let you down.”


Essentialism intertwines both Fatalism and Determinism beautifully. The surprises and the tie-in from both couples in each book are so fantastic. You find out certain things that further the stories of all the couples which will leave you bewildered! Essentialism is an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you speechless and boggle your mind. With angsty moments and lustful sexual scenes of pure bliss this book will leave you completely sated. I Highly recommend this series and greatly encourage you to read all of the stories. LK is a brilliant writer who is meant to go far in the industry and I will GLADLY continue to be one of her dedicated loyal fans!
Profile Image for Letty  (Cover to Cover Book Blog Reviewer).
650 reviews1 follower
April 17, 2014
This is the third book in the Life.Destiny.Fate series and it tells the story of Bridgette and Troy.

Bridgette(Bridge) is Alexa’s little sister and now Cara’s roommate. Troy is a firefighter working with Abel. Both Troy and Bridge are fun, loving, and caring people. She’s beautiful and he’s one HOT specimen of a man. Because of their relationships with the other characters, Troy and Bridgette meet and form a friendship. They start off with texts, but the attraction is instant and explosive. They find that they can’t hold off much longer and really want to get together.

Bridge has a little secret, though; she has a boyfriend… a douche by the name of David, who turns out to be a possessive lunatic. Troy hates lies, although he’s keeping a secret of his own. When he finds out about the boyfriend, things don’t sit well with Troy and a little “break-up” between them takes place. By this time, Bridge has broken up with David and things don’t end well with him. Can Bridgette convince Troy of her feelings for him and will he agree to explore a relationship with her? Will revealing his secret scare her away?

There were so many emotions while I was reading this book. The whole gang from the previous books makes an appearance and there are some funny moments. We have love, anger, laughs, tears, and some very HOT sex. Troy and Bridge are so passionate and explosive together and their sex scenes can burn down the place, no matter where you are.

This story was just as good and exciting to read as the others, although they can each be read as a standalone. LK’s writing keeps getting better with each novel and I am definitely waiting for her other stories.
Profile Image for Miranda Whore.
937 reviews86 followers
April 19, 2014
Essentialism by LK Collins is the third in her Life. Destiny. Fate series and in my opinion the best to date. Each book just gets better and better. I wondered how she would manage to write a male character that could compete with Abel in Determinism... well, Troy definitely gives him a run for his money. I really LOVED Troy. What's more, I love Bridgette. She is one of those characters that you get to watch grow and develop as the story goes on, that kind of character development can be a huge challenge for authors sometimes, but LK nailed it.

The storyline of Essentialism will suck you in and you will quickly be rooting for our boy Troy. Bridgette has a boyfriend that doesn't appreciate her, being on the prepuce of her new life she's stuck with a tough decision... work things out or set herself free.

Troy, well, he isn't all that he appears. The man is charming, sweet, and respectful. Three very hard characteristics to find in a man these days... he has a secret or two, but who doesn't? Will Bridgette be the one to accept him for who he is or will she turn away like all the other women of his past?

And when danger surrounds Bridgette, will Troy be able to save her or will secrets destroy everything?

Everything about this book is just amazing. I loved it from the first paragraph and was sad to come to the end. I give this book FIVE STARS for an amazingly told storyline and the smut level is FIVE burning pairs of panties. If you like a great story with your smut, you'll love this book! A Mommy's a Book Whore MUST READ.

Review by the Head Whore at Mommy's a Book Whore.
Profile Image for Lindsey Melia.
384 reviews10 followers
April 23, 2014
Damn LK! Girl you know how to write some steamy books! Literally I think and one point my kindle was steamy up with all the 'Going on's' in this book! Just when I think I can't love another one of your couples more then the first two you prove me wrong. I MAY say this every time so DO NOt judge cause Its your won fault! BUT I think Troy and Bridge are my Favorite so far! *Runs and Hides* GAH yes I say that ALOT but you will understand when you guys read this because it was AMAZING!

As we know the story is about Bridge and Troy. Right from the get go, and I mean the firsst few pages of this book you will be HOOKED! I wanted to find LK and hurt her when I read them first few pages LOL. Bridge as you know if you read the first two books is Alexa's baby sister. WHO in the second book was coming into it to live with Cara. Alexa who Is now living with Vincent.

Now Troy is Abel friend. He is a fireman with Able......*Sigh* Let the drooling commence! And right from the start from when he see's Bridge he wants her. SO Cara may step in and help him......BUT Bridge has something going on that Troy doesn't know about. AND secrets never so anyone any good when only trying to get a relationship of the ground. So of course it has to bite her in the ass. And I'm pretty sure the only one she wants ass biting her is Troy ;)

There story is so HOT! And the Angst is all the way threw this bad boy! AND can I just say from reading this book I can see who's next in the series and I flipping LOVE him already!

LK's writing never lets me down,so I would mark this as a MUST ONE CLICK for sure! And if you haven't yet after reading this review,then what are you waiting for??????
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
April 12, 2014
I fell in love with Troy instantly, "I slap his chest and he releases me placing his hand over the place I hit. "Did you really just hit me? You've got some anger issues, girl." I think it's cute that Troy is consumed with Bridgette, "dammit, Bridgette, I'm gonna need far more than an hour with you. You might as well pencil me in for a full day and I don't even know if that's enough." He tends to speak his mind, "you heard me. My co**'s been hard for weeks; I need to be able to take my time." I mean Troy literally just blurts out what's on his mind:
"Are you on birth control?
Whoa, excuse me? Way to start off a conversation. "Uh...yeah. Why?"
"I don't want us to use protection. I haven't slept with anyone for almost four months, so I promise I'm clean."
He sometimes asks the dumbest questions, "Troy removes his boxers so he's now completely naked and I lean up to get a better look at him. "You wanna see my co**, Bridge?" No Troy the girl just wants to look at your legs. I love how bold Bridgette gets when she's with Troy and I fund it amusing it dumbfounds him, "I'll get you whatever you want, baby." She smacks my a** and walks off. I'm a bit chocked at what she just did. No one has ever spanked me before. I run my hands over my fave. I guess I shouldn't be surprised. there's a lot that she does that shocks me." I really do love this series, and I can't wait to see whose on the docket to be next.
Profile Image for Tevydara Song.
49 reviews3 followers
April 6, 2014
I was given this book by the author for my honest review......

Where oh where should I start about Essentialism.... I love this series i love all the characters too but this book is HOT!! I think it need to find me a Troy!

Bridgette is Alexis little sister. She moved into the condo w Cara. Bridgette has a boyfriend but she also has a secret, she is soooo attracted to Troy. Who is a firefighter and a friend of Abel's . He came into the picture when he helped Bridge move into the condo. It was like electric site on attraction. She was already having issues w her bf, David but to her, she thought her n Troy were just friends so no harm. But keeping secrets always leaves to bad things.
Secrets..... Troy seems to have one too. But he's scared it will ruin things and he doesn't want to lose her.
Love the sex scenes and the attractions these two have for one another.
They whole gang makes appearances too of course. Great read. Stayed up all night cause I had to know.
Moral of the story. Don't lie. Always be honest w another. I know sometimes you are just trying to help n timing is always wrong but knowing it ahead of time can sometimes lighten the blow and something's wouldn't happen(bad things)

Read read read!!!
Profile Image for Karrie Mellott Puskas.
672 reviews6 followers
April 6, 2014
Troy and Bridgette = HOT COUPLE! Troy and Bridgette have ties thanks to Vincent, Alexa, Abel and Cara. Troy another hot firefighter and Bridgette who's Cara's newly moved in roommate. Troy and Bridgette form a friendship over texting all thanks to Cara giving him her cell number. Bridgette recently moved to the area who has a boyfriend David, who's a major douche, tries to keep Troy arms length away only as a friend. Things happens between David and Bridgette and she breaks it off with him. Wanting to explore a relationship with Troy. When Troy realizes she has/had a boyfriend it doesn't sit to well. Thanks to Vincent and Alexa they tell Bridgette not to give up hope. So Bridgette is persistent. Troy finally sees the light and when he does FIREWORKS!!!! This couple is hot and explosive! Just when I didn't know LK could write anything hotter than the last book she completely blows my mind! Then there's a whole OMG what happened! This book was hard to put down! It's a must read! You won't be disappointed!!!
Profile Image for Becca.
2,003 reviews27 followers
April 14, 2014
Troy does not disappoint! Hot, Steamy, Amazingly Sexy - Bridget and Troy Sizzle.

Alexa's little sister Bridget is moving in with Cara and meets the delicious Troy. Bridget definitely feels the sizzle between the two of them. The only problem is that she kinda has a boyfriend. A boyfriend who is becoming excessively possessive and becoming more and more distant. So what harm will it be to start a friendship with Troy...but as things escalate between her boyfriend and her, she break it off with him and comes clean with Troy...who is not happy with her little secret.

This book is full of fireworks and if you are a fan of super sexy banter, you are going to love Essentialism. I absolutely love this series and LK has another hit on her hands. 4.5 Stars.
Profile Image for Hooked On Books.
1,887 reviews65 followers
April 14, 2014
I must start this review off saying this book kept me reading late into the night. I knew from page one that I was going to be hooked. I really do not understand how L.K Collins managed to write a book that can grab you from the first page and just suck you into the book. This book had everything I need in a book to make me happy. There was love, suspense (creepy ex) and tons of hot wild sex. This books is part of a series which I have not yet read the others in this series but I found no issue with that. It was very easy to read as a stand alone. I would suggest if you love the kind of books that make you want to pull an all niter because you just can't but it down. You need to go get this book.
Profile Image for Keri.
561 reviews17 followers
September 18, 2015
Bridgette & Troy's story is my favorite!!! I still love my hottie Abel but I love their story. I would die and go to heaven if I had a man as wonderful as Troy(no offense to my hubby). I found it so sweet that he thought his secret in the bedroom made him different in any way. He had his reason for it though. Troy is suck a caring and loving human being. He is a very devoted man and treats Bridgette like she's his prized possession. He was definitely taught well by his Mama on how to treat a lady(not so much in the bedroom but many of us ladies out there prefer that). Give me a Troy any day. A Man on the streets but a freak in the sheets!!!!!
Profile Image for Kym.
874 reviews9 followers
May 1, 2014
Well L.K, you've done it again. Loved this book. Troy & Bridgette were a fantastic couple. Holy hell this book was hot. Could not put this book down. This is one of my favourite series. Each book gets better & better. I really love how the other characters are back in this book too! I'm a huge fan of L.K's writing & can not wait to read more from you. This is a must read series for me. Well done love your books........
Profile Image for Mary.
354 reviews16 followers
April 8, 2014
Holy hotness! Troy and Bridgette! Its a great story with some scary stuff and a beautiful love story with some kink....win win win! <3
Profile Image for Tricia Santos.
336 reviews36 followers
May 9, 2014
**ARC provided by author in exchange for honest review**

I’m 95% sure that each book that LK Collins writes is better than the last. And I’m just gonna get this out of the way now, but Troy is MINE. He is seriously my book boyfriend end of the moment. I need him to become real life so he can tie me up and have his way with me. No… but really. I adore this series and LK’s writing. And I am definitely going to try to sell you on this book based on Troy alone. And, of course, there is no Troy without his other half, Bridgette.

“I…I won’t be able to stop. Trust me, I know my limits and what I can handle. You’re a drug I’ve never had and my body has been craving you. I need to take my time with you to satisfy us both. I’m not going to get you off in my car like some prick, especially not the first time. You’ll come in my bed, under my control, when I say you can. Understand?”

So, Bridgette is Alexa’s sister and Cara’s new roommate. And Troy is Abel’s fellow firefighter. Yes, I said firefighter *drools*. And although this book is basically the third in the series, they are all standalones. This is my favorite one. Bridgette isn’t happy with her current relationship. She finds herself getting closer and closer to Troy while sort of dating David. She denies her growing feelings for Troy, but their attraction is just too strong to deny. I seriously adored how they went from friends to lovers. Yes, the transition was a bit fast, but when you know, you know right? And how could you not fall for Troy? But, David doesn’t take their breakup well and it kind of adds suspense to the story line. Another bonus is that it brings out the sexy, protective side of Troy. I never trusted David—he gave me the creeps and I was definitely rooting for Troy from the very beginning.

“I never imagined I would find someone like her, someone who completes me and accepts every little fucked up piece of me. She’s given me the greatest gift in the world. I know that with her by my side I can survive anything. She is the most essential part of my world and I’m finally seeing the truth in how essential I am to hers. Life may not always be an easy road, but together we can overcome anything.”

The first half of the story is told in Bridgette’s POV and we get a nice setup of how they fall for each other. I really, really loved Bridgette. She never once made me roll my eyes in anger or irritation. These days, t’s surprisingly hard to find a heroine that doesn’t piss me off. I loved how much she cared for her family, and how strong she was. I would have loved to know more about her tattoos, but I felt like she was the perfect mix of Alexa and Cara. I really liked how she wholeheartedly accepted Troy once she admitted to herself that she was definitely in lust with him. And, even though I didn’t think it was possible, we saw her grow and mature even more by the end of the book.

“This is how our life’s gonna be. This is our life, and every day is what we make of it. I know each day is a gift and you better believe I’m going to make the most of every day I get with Bridge.”

Now we can get to the part where I claim Troy as much as I can without peeing on him to mark my territory. As I previously stated, Troy is a firefighter. And we get to see him in action (in more ways than one) in Essentialism. He’s actually super sweet and adorable. In the beginning, I felt like he had that little boy or Southern charm to him. But, then…we get to see Troy in his element. And he transitions from cute boy to sexy man really quick. He’s into kink and bonding, not dom/sub stuff, but just the right amount to turn a girl on *fans myself*. Don’t get me wrong, we still see the sweet side of Troy when it comes to Bridgette, but wow I love him in the bedroom. With rope. I loveddd how romantic he was and how he loved so passionately and fiercely. He can say the sweetest things and then turn around and say the dirtiest, hottest things. I definitely just need a Troy in my life.

“That’s one of the best things about the sun; it always comes back.”
“That’s true, it does. I promise I’ll always be your sun.”
“And I’ll be yours.”

Like the other two books, LK Collins has a way of transporting me to another world through her way with words. But, unlike the other two, I found myself falling in love with Bridgette, in love with Troy, and just in love with their love. The way LK portrays love in her books makes me seriously believe that there is such a thing and that I can find it one day. It’s amazing. Her characters are real, adorable, sexy, and so loveable. I just did not want this book to end. I want more Troy and Bridgette. Their chemistry is dynamite. The sex scenes were scorching hot and thank god there were plenty of them. I loved their banter, the way they loved each other, the way they teased each other, and the way they basically worshipped each other. I can’t help but love a couple who jumps through life’s hurdles together and love so fiercely. I can’t wait for the next installment in this series, but I doubt he can match my love for Troy.

“You have become my best friend and my reason for happiness. I know this might seem fast, but I love you. I can’t let another day go by without speaking the words to you. You have such a special place inside of my heart and it consumes all of me. You are what I have searched for my entire life.”

See full review here http://www.romanceaddictbookblog.com/...
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,889 reviews160 followers
May 6, 2014
Essential – “absolutely necessary; extremely important”

But what’s imperative to some, may not be that crucial to others. To Troy Sorano, absolute honesty is crucial in any personal relationship he has, and when Bridgette Schaefer lies by omission, their relationship is over before it even really begins…or is it? What if Troy realizes that perhaps Bridgette is the most essential thing he needs to live life the way he’s always wanted to – both in an out of the bedroom?

Essentialism is the third book in the Life.Destiny.Fate series, and just like the first two books in the series, Troy and Bridgette’s story delivers the steam and then some. Their relationship may have a bit of a bumpy start, but at the heart of the story is two people who really haven’t been able to be their true selves with anyone they’ve been with finally finding the one person who sees them and all that they are at their core and willingly accepts them; in fact, revels in and applauds their ability to show them their soul.

Added in to the dynamics of Troy and Bridgette’s storyline is a bit of suspense and a whole lot of humor and snarky wit, which only adds to the story’s enjoyment. Readers are also able to catch up with Vincent and Alexa as well as Abel and Cara and see where their lives are headed; this is one of the reasons I enjoy series so much. I always wonder what’s happening in the previous couples’ lives and as the storylines move on to other main characters but still keep the previous ones in the mix, it makes for a much more enjoyable read.

One thing I love about LK’s characters is that she allows them to be flawed and provides them opportunities for growth as the story progresses. Bridgette has flaws and insecurities just like any woman would have, and LK doesn’t sugar coat them or paint them unrealistically. Bridgette takes responsibility for her actions when she messes up and acknowledges that it’s her own fault when she almost misses out on the best thing to ever happen to her, which is both refreshing and realistic. Troy is definitely an alpha male who protects what’s his, and by attempting to dormant his sexual tastes and desires, he’s not allowing who he really is to come through. Yes, he’s caring and compassionate as well as giving and empathetic, but that’s only one side of his personality, so finding Bridgette allows Troy to be whole, which is what he needs to feel alive.

Essentialism is a hot and dirty read that will have readers fanning themselves on numerous occasions. It shows how truly freeing it can be when someone accepts you for who you are – proclivities and all. So one-click today and be ready for one helluva kinky and sexy ride;)

A copy of the text was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

4 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Profile Image for Books&Dreams.
575 reviews
May 11, 2014
 photo bookwormsreviewicon.jpg

I gave this book 5 stars.
This is book 3 in LK Collins series but you can read this as a standalone.


This is Bridge and Troy's story.
Bridgette has a boyfriend a very mean and nasty boyfriend, who is controlling and not at all what she needs. She starts to see this once she meets Troy a man who treats her like she is a queen. But she keeps her relationship with her boyfriend a secret. She isn't happy and after time she feels more drawn to Troy and less to her boyfriend.

Troy only dislikes one thing lies. And well Bridgette is lying to him even if is only by not speaking what is going on in her life when he is not around. Once she makes her choice and gets rid of the one she is not happy with will it be too late?


Let me say one thing if you don't like HOT sex scenes then don't read this .. !! You have been warned this book was on fire!! I thought at one point i would melt into a big mushy puddle!!! It is not very often that an author can write an great story and have great sex scenes that go together well!!!
I really loved this couple they made me feel all warm and beautiful inside lol. The story kept me stuck to the pages and I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. It really helps that Troy is a hot fireman too!!! <3 LK keeps getting better and better in this series. I cannot wait to read what she has coming up next.
Profile Image for Sarah.
503 reviews
April 23, 2014
I loved Troy and Bridgette's story!! Again another HOT installment from LK that doesn't disappoint!!

Bridgette is Alexa's sister, who we have met in the previous two books and Troy works with Abel as a Firefighter!! Need i say more?! lol Bridgette has a boyfriend, David, at the time of meeting troy but has moved away from him after finishing school and things have changed between them a lot!

Troy and Bridgette clearly have chemistry from the moment they meet and don't take long in til they give in to it! they really are a great couple together, completely in sync with each other and have some very HOT scenes!! Troy enjoys a bit of the BDSM lifestyle, just light stuff and is worried that Bridgette won't, but hey once you meet Troy you really couldn't say no to him!!lol

David causes a few problems for them but eventually everything works out OK, Troy is there for Bridgette completely, such a lovely, sweet, protective man who is a 'Demon' in the bedroom!! Likewise Bridgette is there for him too and together they really are great!

Loved reading about them and about all the others we have met previously as well, Alexa, Vince, Cara and Abel. This is a great series, I have loved every book so far and can't wait for the next!!

Highly recommend this series, LK is brilliant!
Profile Image for Hailey.
564 reviews6 followers
April 23, 2014
Wow well were do I begin with this? I din't really see a story or redeemable plotline with this one - it was more like wake up have sex, go to work, have luch, get sucked off, go home and to bed, have sex. It was sex, sex, sex and no really story. I think the actually story about the stalker ex-boyfriend and what not took up like 10% of the book if that and the rest was about sex and tying each other up and blow jobs and whatever!!! It was every other page since the got together and sad to say sex every other page does not a good book make.

Bridgette - she was bloody annoying, a bit flaky as well. You never knew what mood or state of mind she'd be in from one sentence to the next.

Troy - I didn't like him, found him a bit crude in some of the things he said. I think when he said it, it was supposed to make all hot and stuff but sadly it didn't, at least to me. I found him quite ugh!

Together I didn't like them as a couple. I never felt the love, it just felt like a prolonged hookup. Never got the warm fuzzy feeling in my tummy when they said nice things to each other, maybe it had to do with the fact that everytime they were in the same room toether they were ripping each other's clothes off!
Profile Image for Adrean.
55 reviews41 followers
April 8, 2014
I received a copy of Essentialism from LK in return for an honest review.

5 FLAMING HOT STARS

LK surprises me every single time. Just when I thought it couldn't get better. It did, and it does everything time.

Bridgette is Cara's newly roommate, she is also Alexa's sister. I love how their circle is all connected.
Cara builds a friendship with Troy, who helped her move and I must say he is SEXY and a firefighter. Their friendship definitely has chemistry but, Bridgette has a douche bag boyfriend who is up to no good.

Troy is all about trust, no lying, and always telling the truth but when he finds out Bridgette's secret will it be too late? What about his secrets? Will they destroy Bridgette?

She does the right thing and ends things with her boyfriend and see where things go with Troy. Troy seriously has the biggest heart. EVER. He is so caring and passionate I think everyone needs a Troy in their life.

His expression is carnal and ambiguous as we stare at one another, like two wild animals about to take each other down

Whooooo!!! Love It!!!!<3
Thanks LK for such a beautiful story.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
710 reviews10 followers
April 21, 2014
This book is 4.5 flaming hot stars. These books just keep getting better and better.

Troy is a sexy fireman who works with and is friends with Abel from book 2. He is smoldering hot and is looking for an honest lover with similar romantic "notions" as himself. He hopes he has found this in Bridgette. Troy is a bit on the kinky side and is a possessive and protective lover.

Bridgette is Alexa's sister from book 1 and Cara's room mate from book 2. She has just dissolved a relationship with a not so loving boyfriend and has been dreaming of a relationship with Troy...literally. Her dreams finally come true after a little drama and then this smoldering hot relationship ignites. Troy keeps her safe and makes her happy. Bridgette finds his world more than intriguing. I love this couple.

This book has all the essentials. We have the crazy ex, the fun loving friends, family drama and of course the sizzling sex. Each of these books has a beginning and an end but also we revisit couples from the previous books and see into their future as well.

Well done L.K. Collins and keep writing. I am intrigued to learn more about Lincoln.
Profile Image for Angela Rose.
38 reviews2 followers
April 25, 2014
I love how these stories are all intertwined. Amazing job! And can I just say, I think Troy is the hottest one so far!!!
Profile Image for Dany.
536 reviews6 followers
April 12, 2016
Somewhat better than the first 2
179 reviews3 followers
October 31, 2017
Page turner

Loved this book I think Troy was my Favorite male character in this seires Bridget hurt him when she didn't tell him about her boyfriend but he eventually forgave her and their love story began with the twists in this book were amazing I highly recommend this book
Profile Image for Kelly Fountain.
908 reviews2 followers
April 7, 2018
Troy and Bridgette set us on fire in this story. The heat and passion that these two make send sparks all over the place. Honesty is extremely important to both of them and when they each find out the secrets that the other holds, passion may not be enough to save them.
Profile Image for ✰  BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰.
3,031 reviews12 followers
May 7, 2014
ARC received for an honest review

Essentialism is the third book in the Life.Destiny.Love series by LK Collins, and could be read as a stand alone, however I read books 1 - 3 back to back to get the whole story (Book 1 Fatalism; Book 2 Determinism).

Bridgette and Troy first meet when he helps her move house. There is that instant spark between the two of them, that can't help but ignite into something more.

Troy is FINE!! Sexy firefighter, who seems to have bit of a hero complex - not that that is a bad thing, but can get him into trouble!

Bridgette is just starting out in her life and career. When she meets Troy, things definitely start to change for the better. Things start out truly platonic ~~ texting, innocent (or is it) flirting. But both realise things are never going to stay in the "friend zone" and things progress to the next level

But secrets and lies (or lies by omission) tear them apart. They both have things in their past that are still causing troubles to this day.

Add to the mix a psycho ex hell bent on keeping their partner, and we are taken on one hell of a ride.

Can their feelings and attraction to each other be enough to get them their HEA?

Uh uh, for that you are going to have to read for yourself.

I really did love Bridge and Troy, both together and apart. They are both smart mouthed, funny, sexy. Love their text messaging, and when they do get together.. HOT HOT HOT!!! I mean tie me up, tie me down, burn up the sheets smokin hot!!

I love that we get more of the characters from the first two book, Vincent and Alexa, Abel and Cara. This is such a tight knit group of family and friends and their lives interweave so much that it would not have felt right if we didn't get more of them.

Probably the only thing that annoyed me about this book. Too much sex. I know, you are shocked, right? I love a steamy, sexy book as much as the next person, but I felt that in the case of Essentialism, it was a little bit too much. I felt like I was coming down with a case of "proximity honeymoon cystitis" and poor Bridgette would have been constantly walking bow legged!! But this could just be me!

I have thoroughly enjoyed the Life. Destiny. Love series so far, and can't wait to get into the next couple of books!

description Smokin Hot Book Blog Email
Profile Image for Nic Spears.
592 reviews41 followers
June 3, 2014
** Review for BareNakedWords **

“Life may not always be an easy road, but together we can overcome anything.” ~ Troy

LK Collins captured my attention and had me completely hooked in this book before I even finished reading the prologue. I just knew it was going to be an amazing read, and hell I wasn’t wrong.

Between the storyline, the characters and the overall writing style LK Collins really has produced a phenomenal book; and although part of a series, Essentialism can be read as a standalone.

Bridgette is starting a new life, in a new city and hopefully will be starting a new career. It’s while moving in to her new condo that she meets Troy, a friend of her brother in law who is helping her to move in. The connection they feel towards each other is instantaneous but neither of them acts on it...at first

Troy, well....He is sex on legs. Absolutely gorgeous, charming, sexy, oooh and he’s a fire-fighter. Now that just makes him even hotter, I mean who wouldn’t want a man in uniform??

Bridgette and Troy become really great friends to begin with and the feelings they have for each other becomes clearer the more time they talk to and spend time each other. But things aren’t that simple for Bridge.

“God I need to figure out what the hell I’m doing. My feelings for Troy are growing and I can’t stop them. It’s like they are on a roller coaster and the bar’s locked; there’s no getting off the ride for me now. Even if I wanted to, I couldn’t.”

But, keeping a big secret and lying (albeit by omission) to Troy tears them apart before they’ve really begun.

Throw in a crazy ass ex who refuses to let things go and hell bent on getting their ‘love’ back, and we’re in for one hell of a rollercoaster ride.

Can they get passed the lies that have been told and look to a future of happiness together?

“I promise I’ll always be your sun.”
“And I’ll be yours.”

I can’t find any faults when reading this book. I absolutely loved it. Troy and Bridgette were a perfect match for each other and I found myself laughing along with their banter. Their love was real and you could feel it through the pages; it enveloped you. And when they were together....Holy shit. Get the ice or cold shower ready, because fuck me it’s HOT, HOT, HOT!!!

I loved the way LK wrote this book. It is written as a duel POV however, instead of alternating between the male and female for every chapter, LK writes the first half in Bridgette’s POV and then switches to Troy’s for the second half. It’s the first time I’ve read a book with a POV like this. It was brilliant and flawless.

I am looking forward to future books by this author and I’m going to go back and read the first two books in this series.

Thank you Ms.Collins for this truly amazing read.
Profile Image for Itsy Bitsy Book Bits.
699 reviews50 followers
February 8, 2016
ESSENTIALISM is the third book in the Life, Destiny, Fate Series by L. K. Collins. This book can be read as a standalone, but please don't. Each book is built perfectly on each other and the characters are strong and memorable. L. K. Collins has created a wonderful, engaging series. ESSENTIALISM continues with the story of Bridgette, Alexa's sister, and Troy, a firefighter that works with Abel. And, as always, L. K. includes the characters from the previous books in this series. Each one of these books just gets better and better.

This is Bridgette and Troy's love story.

Bridgette, Alexa's sister, is now Cara’s roommate. Bridgette is embarking on a new life and seeking a job opportunity. Finding a job is first on her list. She is sweet, loving, and vulnerable, and Bridgette has a secret!! She has a worthless boyfriend that she is trying to get rid of, but in the meantime she meets the gorgeous firefighter Troy.

Troy is super-hot, sexy, chivalrous, charming and completely loyal. He will always take care of those that are special to him and truth is the only thing he expects in return.

When Troy and Bridgette meet, the sparks immediately fly. They are perfect for each other. They start out with a close friendship, but they both know that there is so much more between them and wonder if this could be the one great love for them. The passion between them is so emotional, hot, and sexy.

When Troy finds out the secret Bridgette has been hiding, he immediately wants to break things off with her, but he can't get her out of his head or heart. His past comes back to haunt him and he has to deal with it so he can move forward. Unforeseen circumstances start to threaten the bond they have formed and they have to struggle to maintain their relationship.

Troy and Bridgette have a steamy, hot romance, but will secrets tear them apart? Will they be able to work through the problems that threaten their fairy tale ending?

I can't wait to see what is in store for us in SKEPTICISM, the fourth book in the Life, Destiny, Fate series.
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