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When I first met Willem, he swept me off my feet. I was pursued. Adored.
But over time, I began to give in to all of Will’s desires and demands and lost sight of who I was. Whenever I felt like I could finally break free… he would find a way to reel me back in.
That’s how I ended up here, in Aruba. With a fiancé who’s never around and a lonely, solitary existence filled with cooking meals and keeping house.
Meeting Casper was a pleasant surprise. With his brilliant green eyes, tanned skin, and brooding demeanor, I find myself irresistibly drawn into his orbit again and again. Without even trying, he makes me feel seen for the first time in years.
Maybe it’s the way he corrects my stance on the kite board. Maybe it’s the side glances he thinks I don’t catch. But the more time I spend with him, the more closed-off he becomes – and the more I want to break through his tough exterior.
When Will and I’s relationship takes a turn for the worse, Casper helps me escape my prison. But I never expected the secrets that would be exposed… or the danger that’s about to come for us both.
In over my head, I quickly realize that at least one more time, I will have to submit to someone else’s control.
But over time, I began to give in to all of Will’s desires and demands and lost sight of who I was. Whenever I felt like I could finally break free… he would find a way to reel me back in.
That’s how I ended up here, in Aruba. With a fiancé who’s never around and a lonely, solitary existence filled with cooking meals and keeping house.
Meeting Casper was a pleasant surprise. With his brilliant green eyes, tanned skin, and brooding demeanor, I find myself irresistibly drawn into his orbit again and again. Without even trying, he makes me feel seen for the first time in years.
Maybe it’s the way he corrects my stance on the kite board. Maybe it’s the side glances he thinks I don’t catch. But the more time I spend with him, the more closed-off he becomes – and the more I want to break through his tough exterior.
When Will and I’s relationship takes a turn for the worse, Casper helps me escape my prison. But I never expected the secrets that would be exposed… or the danger that’s about to come for us both.
In over my head, I quickly realize that at least one more time, I will have to submit to someone else’s control.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 24, 2023
13 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
Jillian D. Wray
16 books121 followersJillian lives in North Carolina with her incredibly supportive husband and three awesome stepkids. After over ten years in the healthcare industry, it was time to pursue a new passion. An avid reader her whole life, she sat down one night and let the words begin to flow. Four hours and ten thousand words later, a love of writing was discovered.
She writes spicy, bingeable reads that encourage self-discovery and come with all the angst and excitement of a new relationship.
When she isn’t reading or writing, you can either find her in her vegetable garden, at CrossFit™, or on a plane headed toward her next adventure.
She writes spicy, bingeable reads that encourage self-discovery and come with all the angst and excitement of a new relationship.
When she isn’t reading or writing, you can either find her in her vegetable garden, at CrossFit™, or on a plane headed toward her next adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 26, 2023
Submit by Jillian D. Wray
Review
5⭐️
Wow, just wow. This book had me in a chokehold from the very beginning. Elizabeth is a woman who has been orphaned since she was a young child. Who grew up all alone. She goes away to college and meets Willem, who she becomes very smitten with immediately and almost immediately moves in with him. She allows him to take control, to make the money while she stays home and searches for the perfect job.
But, their relationship very quickly becomes strained, and despite the dynamic of their relationship, Elizabeth or Libby as she wants to go by, she agrees to marry Will and follow him to Aruba for his new job. Will has always been a workaholic, who never put forth the effort to be "present" in their relationship, and the quality time quickly dwindles to Libby eating dinners alone and hobbies enjoyed solo. Will promises a change, that Aruba will be a breath of fresh air.
Quickly after leaving everything behind. Libby realizes that those promises will fall on deaf ears. Will was present and made commitments that he couldn't keep past the first week. He soon becomes wrapped up in work once again, leaving Libby to her own devices. She had made plans for her and Will to go kite surfing, and she still goes despite Will backing out at the last minute.
This is where Libby encounters the green eyes of Casper, who quickly entrances her and puts her under his spell. Casper comes from a secret background as well, and will do anything to keep his past in a vault.
Casper and Libby quickly learn that Will also has many secrets and is a danger to them all. Can Casper and Libby keep out of Will's crosshairs before too much damage can be done?
This is a great start to multiple books, I cannot wait to see where this goes!
Review
5⭐️
Wow, just wow. This book had me in a chokehold from the very beginning. Elizabeth is a woman who has been orphaned since she was a young child. Who grew up all alone. She goes away to college and meets Willem, who she becomes very smitten with immediately and almost immediately moves in with him. She allows him to take control, to make the money while she stays home and searches for the perfect job.
But, their relationship very quickly becomes strained, and despite the dynamic of their relationship, Elizabeth or Libby as she wants to go by, she agrees to marry Will and follow him to Aruba for his new job. Will has always been a workaholic, who never put forth the effort to be "present" in their relationship, and the quality time quickly dwindles to Libby eating dinners alone and hobbies enjoyed solo. Will promises a change, that Aruba will be a breath of fresh air.
Quickly after leaving everything behind. Libby realizes that those promises will fall on deaf ears. Will was present and made commitments that he couldn't keep past the first week. He soon becomes wrapped up in work once again, leaving Libby to her own devices. She had made plans for her and Will to go kite surfing, and she still goes despite Will backing out at the last minute.
This is where Libby encounters the green eyes of Casper, who quickly entrances her and puts her under his spell. Casper comes from a secret background as well, and will do anything to keep his past in a vault.
Casper and Libby quickly learn that Will also has many secrets and is a danger to them all. Can Casper and Libby keep out of Will's crosshairs before too much damage can be done?
This is a great start to multiple books, I cannot wait to see where this goes!
September 6, 2023
The premise for Submit is something that I think a lot of readers could relate to. It’s the start of a relationship and you’re smitten. Things seem to be going exactly where you’d envisioned they would, and no one has ever cared for you this way, so you coast on the oxytocin high because it just feels so good.. You submit your control in certain aspects, expecting that your partner will do the same. There’s meant to be a give and take.
But how much of the person we first meet remains in the person we end up with? What happens when that give and take isn’t balanced?
This is kind of what Elizabeth experienced when she first met Willem in college. Having been orphaned at a young age and growing up alone, the way that Will cared for her was something that she’d never experienced but had been so long craving that it would have been hard for her not to be swept away in it. She allows him total control, staying at home while he works and makes the money for their shared life.
Alas, it’s not long before their dynamic changes, and Will has less and less time for her, gone more and more often for work. Despite all this, when Willem proposes and invites his new wife to be to move with him to Aruba for an employment opportunity, Elizabeth is hopeful that this will be just the shock that their relationship needs to get back on track.
Much to her dismay, just one week into their new lives in this foreign place, Willem is falling back into old patterns and sparing less and less attention for her. Again. In an attempt to garner some of that much craved attention, she even schedules activities for them to do as a pair, but of course Will backs out last minute. Left to her own devices, Elizabeth- now calling herself Libby- decides to go anyway.
This is where she meets Casper— mysterious, broody and green-eyed with a secret past, who makes her heart beat faster at their first meeting than her fiancé ever has. She knows from the jump she won’t be able to stay away from Casper, no matter what happens with Willem. What she doesn’t realize is just how dangerous a situation she’s unknowingly been mixed up in all along. And in order to wriggle her way out of it, she’ll have to once again submit control. To Casper.
This is an action packed series starter with a little something for many audiences, which provides readers with a lot of information that I think will be a really great set up for future books.
I would call this kind of a slow burn romantic suspense with some mystery elements tossed in. Though it starts out a bit on the slower side- I DID say slow burn— Stick it out. Things get GOING, and the action will have you at the edge of your seat, biting your nails and shaking your leg in anticipation.
I look forward to the rest of this series!
But how much of the person we first meet remains in the person we end up with? What happens when that give and take isn’t balanced?
This is kind of what Elizabeth experienced when she first met Willem in college. Having been orphaned at a young age and growing up alone, the way that Will cared for her was something that she’d never experienced but had been so long craving that it would have been hard for her not to be swept away in it. She allows him total control, staying at home while he works and makes the money for their shared life.
Alas, it’s not long before their dynamic changes, and Will has less and less time for her, gone more and more often for work. Despite all this, when Willem proposes and invites his new wife to be to move with him to Aruba for an employment opportunity, Elizabeth is hopeful that this will be just the shock that their relationship needs to get back on track.
Much to her dismay, just one week into their new lives in this foreign place, Willem is falling back into old patterns and sparing less and less attention for her. Again. In an attempt to garner some of that much craved attention, she even schedules activities for them to do as a pair, but of course Will backs out last minute. Left to her own devices, Elizabeth- now calling herself Libby- decides to go anyway.
This is where she meets Casper— mysterious, broody and green-eyed with a secret past, who makes her heart beat faster at their first meeting than her fiancé ever has. She knows from the jump she won’t be able to stay away from Casper, no matter what happens with Willem. What she doesn’t realize is just how dangerous a situation she’s unknowingly been mixed up in all along. And in order to wriggle her way out of it, she’ll have to once again submit control. To Casper.
This is an action packed series starter with a little something for many audiences, which provides readers with a lot of information that I think will be a really great set up for future books.
I would call this kind of a slow burn romantic suspense with some mystery elements tossed in. Though it starts out a bit on the slower side- I DID say slow burn— Stick it out. Things get GOING, and the action will have you at the edge of your seat, biting your nails and shaking your leg in anticipation.
I look forward to the rest of this series!
July 13, 2023
At first I was like what is going on with this story until I reached the end and realized that it is the first part of the series, which made a lot more sense to me. It's building up to the next two parts, which I am now wanting to know how it ends. Which is good right?
It's a good read, a bit slow with getting things going and when they finally happened they were good. Definitely a slow burn, instant attraction to the LI Casper. At times it felt a little repetitive with Libby's inner thoughts and what she was going through with her relationship with her 'boyfriend' Will.
Not to give too much of the story away, I wanted more background to Libby's and Will's relationships as to why she keeps giving him a chance and not just certain words or a look that makes her see the guy she first met and why he turned out the way he did. In the end I just wanted a little bit more.
It's a good read, a bit slow with getting things going and when they finally happened they were good. Definitely a slow burn, instant attraction to the LI Casper. At times it felt a little repetitive with Libby's inner thoughts and what she was going through with her relationship with her 'boyfriend' Will.
Not to give too much of the story away, I wanted more background to Libby's and Will's relationships as to why she keeps giving him a chance and not just certain words or a look that makes her see the guy she first met and why he turned out the way he did. In the end I just wanted a little bit more.
September 8, 2023
I received Submit in return for an honest review as part of the tour hosted by R&R Book Tours.
In the beginning everything was perfect but her workaholic fiancee is never around forcing Libby to spend a lot of her time alone. When the opportunity presents itself they up and move to Aruba which starts a new adventure but she ends up being alone. When she decides to take up kite surfing she meets a man who changes everything. As secrets are uncovered she learns that things aren't always as they appear.
I like Libby she's just a sweetheart she stuck it out for so long trying to make it work with Will but eventually she accepted the fact that it wasn't going to work. I love Casper he's such a great character to complement Libby and just what she needs too. They have this steamy sweet chemistry that just works and is sizzling. I wasn't a fan of Will but what can you expect he's not the right guy.
I ended up reading Submit over the course of two days it would have been quicker but real life seemed to get in the way but I kept picking it up every chance I could. I really like that the story took place in Aruba which brings a whole new world of the cartel's and with the dark Dutch elements I found the concept fascinating. I love a darker steamy romance and Submit has a perfect mix of both with a sprinkling a action
This is my first book by the author and I'm hooked on her writing style just flows it's easy to get swept up into the story. Submit has great characters and a captivating story that captures the heart as well as the imagination. I truly enjoyed every moment of the book it kept me on the edge of my seat till the very end. I can't wait to continue Libby and Caspers story as it continues in the next book.
In the beginning everything was perfect but her workaholic fiancee is never around forcing Libby to spend a lot of her time alone. When the opportunity presents itself they up and move to Aruba which starts a new adventure but she ends up being alone. When she decides to take up kite surfing she meets a man who changes everything. As secrets are uncovered she learns that things aren't always as they appear.
I like Libby she's just a sweetheart she stuck it out for so long trying to make it work with Will but eventually she accepted the fact that it wasn't going to work. I love Casper he's such a great character to complement Libby and just what she needs too. They have this steamy sweet chemistry that just works and is sizzling. I wasn't a fan of Will but what can you expect he's not the right guy.
I ended up reading Submit over the course of two days it would have been quicker but real life seemed to get in the way but I kept picking it up every chance I could. I really like that the story took place in Aruba which brings a whole new world of the cartel's and with the dark Dutch elements I found the concept fascinating. I love a darker steamy romance and Submit has a perfect mix of both with a sprinkling a action
This is my first book by the author and I'm hooked on her writing style just flows it's easy to get swept up into the story. Submit has great characters and a captivating story that captures the heart as well as the imagination. I truly enjoyed every moment of the book it kept me on the edge of my seat till the very end. I can't wait to continue Libby and Caspers story as it continues in the next book.
July 24, 2023
Losing her parents at a young age and having no relatives Libby is then put into an orphanage where she’s always been alone something she hates. Despite this Libby finds her way and even attends a great college getting her degree in Marketing where she meets Will. Will is a few years older than her but she’s smitten and willing to have him take the lead in their relationship. Along the way she realizes that Will is not the same man she falls in love with and after half a year in a bad relationship he proposes and she accepts hoping it will better their relationship. Little does she know getting engaged, moving out of the states to Aruba doesn’t change Will’s interest in bettering their relationship. Despite this she is finally feeling like herself again and she loves this new her and who helps her bring that out of her? None other than Casper; the broody, hot, sexy, closed off, much older man and her kite surfing instructor. She shouldn’t be feeling a pull towards him but she can’t stop the attraction, the lust, and the need to be around him which is something she’s never felt for anyone not even her fiancé. Finding herself leads her to getting close to Casper and the more time she spends with him the more she realizes that Will isn’t the man for her and their relationship should’ve been over a long time ago. What she doesn’t expect is to be told by Casper that her fiancé isn’t the man she thought he was, he’s far more dangerous and ruthless. In order to be free of Will she needs to submit to yet another man to take care of her while seeking that freedom. Will Casper save her in time? Or will her fiancé Will stop her by any means necessary even if it means hurting her? This book was a little slow to start and I hated the way she lost herself in Will for so long but he really brainwashed her into thinking that she needed him and he was doing right by her. She was so lost even years after the death of her parents an Will used that to his advantage. However, it did pick up and got real interesting real fast. As soon as she started to hang out with Casper she was much more outspoken, badass, and fiery. The tension between Casper and Libby was so intense and strong that when they finally gave into each other it was hot 🥵 can’t wait to read what comes next!
Thank you to Grey’s Promo and Jillian for the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this one ❤️
Thank you to Grey’s Promo and Jillian for the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this one ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2023
I don't even know where to start. This is by far the best book I have read this year! Don't let the title scare you as it is NOT a BDSM. Jillian is a new author so please give her some love and read this book because it is everything! This was so good that I thought I was reading an actual movie screenplay......this book definitely should be a movie! So many genres: romance, mystery, suspense and action all in one! I started reading this day one and could not put it down. Tropes are: grumpy/sunshine, alpha hero, age gap but this is not your typical romance book.
Elizabeth (Libby) was an orphan at a young age and learned that "nothing lasts forever" the hard way. She ends up being in a long-term relationship with Wes and they have to move to Aruba for his job. She meets a kitesurfing instructor named "Casper" and learns that everyone she knows is not who they seem.
I really relate to Libby, especially in chapter 1, because I understand her feelings and felt what she felt because I went through the same thing. My favorite quote is "love that taught me that nothing last forever, and if you don't get too invested, then you can't be too disappointed."
This story takes you on an epic suspense where Libby finally learns who she is and what she wants in life, with the help of new friends and romance. This is book one in a three part series and is told in single POV. I just can't get over this book; how good it was and and how I can't wait to see what happens next. I highly recommend this!
Elizabeth (Libby) was an orphan at a young age and learned that "nothing lasts forever" the hard way. She ends up being in a long-term relationship with Wes and they have to move to Aruba for his job. She meets a kitesurfing instructor named "Casper" and learns that everyone she knows is not who they seem.
I really relate to Libby, especially in chapter 1, because I understand her feelings and felt what she felt because I went through the same thing. My favorite quote is "love that taught me that nothing last forever, and if you don't get too invested, then you can't be too disappointed."
This story takes you on an epic suspense where Libby finally learns who she is and what she wants in life, with the help of new friends and romance. This is book one in a three part series and is told in single POV. I just can't get over this book; how good it was and and how I can't wait to see what happens next. I highly recommend this!
July 25, 2023
Oh my God! I love this book. I will be reading Defy and Rein asap because I need to know what's going to happen with Libby.
I love a strong female lead, and Libby does not disappoint, Beatrice is also a super awesome badass woman, and I love how she takes Libby under her wing.
I love how Libby goes from a meek and lost woman to a woman who knows what she wants and can handle her own. The character development was really good, but also super believable, which can be difficult with such a big change.
Willem can kick rocks because he's terrible, but also I want to know more about him
All I picture of Casper/Dominic is Jason Momoa, and I am obsessed with his character. He is so sexy and manly, but also so caring and kind under it all. I loved how he empowered Libby to be a strong, independent woman.
Anytime I had to put this book down, I was thinking about it. Then it got to the point that I actually couldn't put it down.
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for
- adventure
- age gap
- organized crime
- spice
- strong FMC
- sexy MMC
- "touch her and die"
Very exciting book that left me wanting... needing more
I love a strong female lead, and Libby does not disappoint, Beatrice is also a super awesome badass woman, and I love how she takes Libby under her wing.
I love how Libby goes from a meek and lost woman to a woman who knows what she wants and can handle her own. The character development was really good, but also super believable, which can be difficult with such a big change.
Willem can kick rocks because he's terrible, but also I want to know more about him
All I picture of Casper/Dominic is Jason Momoa, and I am obsessed with his character. He is so sexy and manly, but also so caring and kind under it all. I loved how he empowered Libby to be a strong, independent woman.
Anytime I had to put this book down, I was thinking about it. Then it got to the point that I actually couldn't put it down.
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for
- adventure
- age gap
- organized crime
- spice
- strong FMC
- sexy MMC
- "touch her and die"
Very exciting book that left me wanting... needing more
July 27, 2023
Wow! Wow! Hold on, guys. I am catching my breath here. Wow! The adrenaline rush in me is still going on. I just finished reading this book. All the gasps, too stunt to speak, and unbelievable moments. It still contains me.
This is my first time reading @jillian_wray_author book. To be honest I am a bit skeptical with all this mafia and dark romance genre in one book because not everyone can carry this. The messaging and the storyline for this kind of book play an important role so that the audience doesn’t either DNF or skip most of the pages. But Jillian, this is a good one. Of course, there will be room for improvement but I believe this consider good for keeping me stay and become of one page-turner book for me.
👉 age gap
👉 mafia love
👉 dark romance
👉 grumpy trainer & sunshine innocent girl
I love all these elements together in one book & I cannot wait for book number 2. I want to know what happens to Dominic & Libby. How sinister are the parents and what Luis wants from Libby? Who is Libby actually? Did her passed away parents actually someone who runs a dark business on the side? It’s getting interesting.
Certainly 4.5/5 from me.
This is my first time reading @jillian_wray_author book. To be honest I am a bit skeptical with all this mafia and dark romance genre in one book because not everyone can carry this. The messaging and the storyline for this kind of book play an important role so that the audience doesn’t either DNF or skip most of the pages. But Jillian, this is a good one. Of course, there will be room for improvement but I believe this consider good for keeping me stay and become of one page-turner book for me.
👉 age gap
👉 mafia love
👉 dark romance
👉 grumpy trainer & sunshine innocent girl
I love all these elements together in one book & I cannot wait for book number 2. I want to know what happens to Dominic & Libby. How sinister are the parents and what Luis wants from Libby? Who is Libby actually? Did her passed away parents actually someone who runs a dark business on the side? It’s getting interesting.
Certainly 4.5/5 from me.
July 16, 2023
3⭐️ First off I would like to thank Jillian D. Wray and Grey’s Promo for the opportunity to read this arc.
Ngl at first it started off a little slow but ig I can’t really complain since it’s sort of a slow burn😭 But nonetheless as soon as I really got into reading this I couldn’t stop. Now this is the first book in a trilogy so I understand why we don’t dive into the plot right away. And now that I’m done with it I want to read the other two rn!!! I personally love me a mysterious and grumpy mmc and that’s exactly who Casper is. Just like Libby I feel in love with him at first sight😭 Libby our classic heroine in danger but as the story goes on she starts to stand up for herself and want to face these battles head on, and I love that for her! And can we talk about Bea for a second. Like omg I LOVE BEA!!! She’s so welcoming and encouraging to not only Casper but Libby as well. I just wanna give her a hug and I just know she would give the best hugs🥹🫶🏾
Ngl at first it started off a little slow but ig I can’t really complain since it’s sort of a slow burn😭 But nonetheless as soon as I really got into reading this I couldn’t stop. Now this is the first book in a trilogy so I understand why we don’t dive into the plot right away. And now that I’m done with it I want to read the other two rn!!! I personally love me a mysterious and grumpy mmc and that’s exactly who Casper is. Just like Libby I feel in love with him at first sight😭 Libby our classic heroine in danger but as the story goes on she starts to stand up for herself and want to face these battles head on, and I love that for her! And can we talk about Bea for a second. Like omg I LOVE BEA!!! She’s so welcoming and encouraging to not only Casper but Libby as well. I just wanna give her a hug and I just know she would give the best hugs🥹🫶🏾
July 24, 2023
4/5 stars
2/5 spice
This was a great first book in the series!
Casper and Libby had an instant blazing connection. Libby was living her life not for herself but for her fiancee. He would subtly control her through mind games, and she lost herself. When her fiancee got a new job and relocated to Aruba, Libby was hoping for a fresh start with her fiancee, but she got the opposite.
When Libby met Casper, she tried really hard not to gawk at him. He made her feel more than she ever felt for her fiancee with just one interaction. He was this mysterious, broody, hot guy, and he just made her melt whenever they were in the same room together.
Once Libby decided to leave her fiancee is when all of his secrets came to light. The life she knew was all a lie, and when it came down to it, her fiancee never cared about her. Casper helped her escape him, but the troubles followed. She was in deeper than she thought, and she had no clue why... there are plenty of secrets she doesn't even know about, and now her and Casper have to enter into an even more dangerous situation.
The chemistry between these two was ferocious! Casper had been living a life where no one knew his true self, and when he met Libby, he couldn't help by confiding in her and tell her about his past. She knew from their first meeting that she wouldn't be able to stay away no matter how dangerous the situation was. This is one of those instances of "when ya know, ya know." These two were destined to meet, yet their future hangs in the balance.
2/5 spice
This was a great first book in the series!
Casper and Libby had an instant blazing connection. Libby was living her life not for herself but for her fiancee. He would subtly control her through mind games, and she lost herself. When her fiancee got a new job and relocated to Aruba, Libby was hoping for a fresh start with her fiancee, but she got the opposite.
When Libby met Casper, she tried really hard not to gawk at him. He made her feel more than she ever felt for her fiancee with just one interaction. He was this mysterious, broody, hot guy, and he just made her melt whenever they were in the same room together.
Once Libby decided to leave her fiancee is when all of his secrets came to light. The life she knew was all a lie, and when it came down to it, her fiancee never cared about her. Casper helped her escape him, but the troubles followed. She was in deeper than she thought, and she had no clue why... there are plenty of secrets she doesn't even know about, and now her and Casper have to enter into an even more dangerous situation.
The chemistry between these two was ferocious! Casper had been living a life where no one knew his true self, and when he met Libby, he couldn't help by confiding in her and tell her about his past. She knew from their first meeting that she wouldn't be able to stay away no matter how dangerous the situation was. This is one of those instances of "when ya know, ya know." These two were destined to meet, yet their future hangs in the balance.
July 23, 2023
Submit by Jillian D. Wray is the First book in the Nothing Last Forever Series. This is the story of Elizabeth 'Libby; who was an orphan who over came a lot. Libby meets Willem who she ends up getting into a relationship with him. Libby starts to doubt their relationship but she feels with their engagement and the move to Aruba for his work will change things. But, it seems to be the same then she happens to meet Casper who set emotions back into. This book does ends setting us up for the next installment.
July 13, 2023
This was my first book by this author. I found her writing style to be easy to slip into which was great because I typically struggle starting a book by a new author.
This book unfolds like a movie…there are funny moments, suspenseful moments & spicy moments. This is book 1 in what will be a series of 3 books, I’ve gathered, so this one ends off in somewhat of a cliffhanger. It’s my understanding that the books will be released super close to each other so I definitely appreciate that! I cannot wait to continue with the series!
Thank you to the author & Grey’s Promo for allowing me the opportunity to read this as an ARC 🩷
This book unfolds like a movie…there are funny moments, suspenseful moments & spicy moments. This is book 1 in what will be a series of 3 books, I’ve gathered, so this one ends off in somewhat of a cliffhanger. It’s my understanding that the books will be released super close to each other so I definitely appreciate that! I cannot wait to continue with the series!
Thank you to the author & Grey’s Promo for allowing me the opportunity to read this as an ARC 🩷
September 4, 2023
This tense, slow burn romantic thriller had me by the very first page!!! There's a lot of scene setting and character building as Submit is the first in a trilogy - but I was never once bored trying to figure out these secretive characters. Willem is such a turd and while I wanted to throw up every time he was on page, he was a fun character to hate lol.
The romance is suuuuper slow burn but holy crap is it worth it!!! I am dying to read book two - and am thrilled to see that it's available on Kindle Unlimited!!!
The romance is suuuuper slow burn but holy crap is it worth it!!! I am dying to read book two - and am thrilled to see that it's available on Kindle Unlimited!!!
July 24, 2023
Thank you Grey's Promotions for the arc!
This book was fun!! This is my first book by Jillian, and I definitely want to pick up more after this one!! Her writing style is beautiful, and it really helps you fall right into the story quickly.
This book really had something for everyone. Romance, mystery, suspense... I loved it all!!
I can't wait to read the other books in this series.
This book was fun!! This is my first book by Jillian, and I definitely want to pick up more after this one!! Her writing style is beautiful, and it really helps you fall right into the story quickly.
This book really had something for everyone. Romance, mystery, suspense... I loved it all!!
I can't wait to read the other books in this series.
September 4, 2023
The way I devoured this book! An emotional roller coaster for sure and the ending.. I wouldn’t call it a cliff hanger but it definitely leaves a lot of unanswered questions and I’ll be reading the next book ASAP
October 13, 2023
Submit is a mafia-like romantic suspense novel with a sexy age gap, broody possessive alpha. It's the first book in the Nothing Lasts Forever trilogy. There is a kind of fated mates/star-crossed lovers vibe but not in a paranormal sense. The chemistry between Libby and Cas is so damn tension riddled that you could cut it with your teeth. I loved these two and watching them give into their desires. The spice is tasteful, limited and delicious.
I loved the build up of the romance, the slow leak of reveals and the suspense! There is a secret about Libby that we are yet to know and I'm itching to know why different mafia lords are out to have her.
If this intoxicating gem sounds like your kind of series hit that TBR add.
I loved the build up of the romance, the slow leak of reveals and the suspense! There is a secret about Libby that we are yet to know and I'm itching to know why different mafia lords are out to have her.
If this intoxicating gem sounds like your kind of series hit that TBR add.
July 24, 2023
This book was sooooo good. It left me wanting more. It was slow to start but the slow burn kept you wanting more right up until the end.
August 27, 2023
Since this was my first mafia love I was a bit nervous about it but it was such a good story! Libby made a super relatable character and her growth was fun to read. This had so much packed into it, steamy romance, new friendships, self searching, suspense, and mystery... It could literally be a movie. A solid 4.5 stars from me!
August 28, 2023
From the moment I picked this one up I couldn't stop reading! The romantic suspense was hot and there were so many twists and turns that kept me on my toes in the best way. I felt like I was curled up watching a sexy Netflix movie where you can feel the sexual tension between these stupidly good looking people. But the beauty of the book (that Netflix could never give you) is that when they do, it's spicy and worth the wait 🔥 Meanwhile, as we started uncovering the sinister undertones lurking behind Libby's fiancé, the thrill delivered! As we head into book two there are so many new questions that I'm dying to get answered, and I cannot wait to continue this series!
August 7, 2023
This is my first book by this author and wow 😍 I loved this book and finished it in about a day and a 1/2. Her writing style is just absolutely amazing and will hook you from the start.
The whole time I pictured Casper’s character as Nacho from 365 Days. I can’t wait to read more of her books and find out what happens in the next book.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Forbidden love
Emotional scars
Secret identity
The whole time I pictured Casper’s character as Nacho from 365 Days. I can’t wait to read more of her books and find out what happens in the next book.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Forbidden love
Emotional scars
Secret identity
July 26, 2023
Omg, this book was so good, and Jillian knocked it out of the park with this story. If you are unable to sit and binge this book, I promise you will be thinking about it the whole time. This book started out a little slow, but it picked up and never let up. It's intriguing, unique, and so easy to get caught up in. I honestly wish they would make this into a movie.
September 4, 2023
“𝐈 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧’𝐭 𝐬𝐮𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐫 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞. 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫.”
Oh my God! 😍 I'm absolutely obsessed with this book! 📚 Defy and Rein is next on my reading list because I can't wait to find out what's in store for Libby. 💕🔥 This story has such a strong female lead, and Libby is truly inspiring. 😊 Beatrice, the badass woman, is just incredible, and I love how she befriends Libby. 👭
From meek to mighty 💪🌟 Watching Libby's incredible transformation was truly inspiring. She showed us that it's never too late to find our inner strength and go after what we truly deserve.
🔥 Willem may be terrible, but I can't help but be intrigued to learn more about him. And let's talk about Casper, he's the epitome of sexy and manly, yet his caring and kind nature is what truly captivates my heart. 💖 Libby's transformation into a strong and independent woman is empowering! 💪👩🦰 I definitely recommend this book!
Oh my God! 😍 I'm absolutely obsessed with this book! 📚 Defy and Rein is next on my reading list because I can't wait to find out what's in store for Libby. 💕🔥 This story has such a strong female lead, and Libby is truly inspiring. 😊 Beatrice, the badass woman, is just incredible, and I love how she befriends Libby. 👭
From meek to mighty 💪🌟 Watching Libby's incredible transformation was truly inspiring. She showed us that it's never too late to find our inner strength and go after what we truly deserve.
🔥 Willem may be terrible, but I can't help but be intrigued to learn more about him. And let's talk about Casper, he's the epitome of sexy and manly, yet his caring and kind nature is what truly captivates my heart. 💖 Libby's transformation into a strong and independent woman is empowering! 💪👩🦰 I definitely recommend this book!
July 25, 2023
Holy Smokes Jillian. This mafia-ish romance book captivated me. I wasn't expecting to devour this book like I did. Libby is the perfect FMC and I love her Aruba Libby mouth, she's stubborn, determined and fearless. And let's not forget Casper....ughhh can he be real please!
After losing her parents at a young age Libby was closed off. It's hard to get hurt if you don't let anyone in, right? But one day, Willem comes along and chips away at her barrier. She slowly lets him in and next thing she knows she's in a full-on relationship with the guy almost 3 years later. He just got this huge job promotion that will uproot their lives to Aruba. So not only does she agree but when he proposes, she panicked and said yes. Hoping that this will be a fresh start for them, she goes with determination. If only his promise lasted.
Will ends up bailing and leaving Libby alone for work, time and time again. So, she takes up a new hobby and makes some friends. She loves being athletic and doing different sports, so why not sign up for kite surfing. But when she meets her instructor, she loses all self-control. He's drop dead gorgeous with the most beautiful emerald eyes, she's ever seen. Only he's closed off and harsh. He's not in the mood to make friends or care about anyone. He hasn't even been with someone is 18 years!!!! But there's just something about Libby that changes him completely.
This novel was captivating and explosive. I loved the friendship between Cas and Libby that turned into fireworks. There was obvious chemistry between them, but he had morals, and she was "engaged". And when her entire life imploded, he was there keeping her safe. Will wasn't who she thought he was, he's so much worse. All the lies, betrayal and backstabbing were twisted. She loved him once, but if he ever laid a finger on Casper then he would be no more.
Thank you, Jillian D. Wray and Grey's Promotions, for an ARC copy of Submit. I loved every second of this book and I can't wait to see what happens next with our surfing couple. All the truth is out except for one very important detail. Why and What do they need with Libby? How is the orphan from NH the key to everything?
After losing her parents at a young age Libby was closed off. It's hard to get hurt if you don't let anyone in, right? But one day, Willem comes along and chips away at her barrier. She slowly lets him in and next thing she knows she's in a full-on relationship with the guy almost 3 years later. He just got this huge job promotion that will uproot their lives to Aruba. So not only does she agree but when he proposes, she panicked and said yes. Hoping that this will be a fresh start for them, she goes with determination. If only his promise lasted.
Will ends up bailing and leaving Libby alone for work, time and time again. So, she takes up a new hobby and makes some friends. She loves being athletic and doing different sports, so why not sign up for kite surfing. But when she meets her instructor, she loses all self-control. He's drop dead gorgeous with the most beautiful emerald eyes, she's ever seen. Only he's closed off and harsh. He's not in the mood to make friends or care about anyone. He hasn't even been with someone is 18 years!!!! But there's just something about Libby that changes him completely.
This novel was captivating and explosive. I loved the friendship between Cas and Libby that turned into fireworks. There was obvious chemistry between them, but he had morals, and she was "engaged". And when her entire life imploded, he was there keeping her safe. Will wasn't who she thought he was, he's so much worse. All the lies, betrayal and backstabbing were twisted. She loved him once, but if he ever laid a finger on Casper then he would be no more.
Thank you, Jillian D. Wray and Grey's Promotions, for an ARC copy of Submit. I loved every second of this book and I can't wait to see what happens next with our surfing couple. All the truth is out except for one very important detail. Why and What do they need with Libby? How is the orphan from NH the key to everything?
July 24, 2023
A tangled web has been woven
Oh, what a tangled web of deceit, suspense, mystery, betrayal, and desire Jillian has woven with SUBMIT, book #1 in the Nothing Lasts Forever trilogy. While it began slowly, the buildup to the cliffhanger was the complete opposite, tenson and action running riot.
Orphaned at an early age, Elizabeth 'Libby' Baker has come to learn, in the hardest of ways, that nothing lasts forever. Libby is in a long-term relationship with Willen 'Will' Van den Tweel but has noticed that lately things are not the same, Will has changed. He is transferred to Aruba for work, and Libby hopes that this will be a fresh start for both, unfortunately things remain the same, in fact they get worse. Libby meets Casper, a kitesurfing instructor, immediately the chemistry between them is insanely hot, but Casper is rude, standoffish, it appears as though he doesn't want anything to do with Libby. She can't resist this dark, mysterious man, he's gotten under her skin, why? The heat between them was explosive, yet acting on it would be disastrous, it would change everything Libby thought she knew about herself and her life with Will.
Once the story hits its stride, it becomes fast paced, non-stop action, with plenty of sexual tension and spiciness to make it unputdownable. Being the first book in a trilogy there is the required world building, character building, and so many questions to be answered. Just who is Elizabeth Baker? Whay is she so important? Who is Casper? Why does he keep so many secrets? As the tenson built, so did my heart rate. I cannot wait to read the next book, DEFY, for more of the suspense, intrigue, action, and romance that this story brings.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FOUR STARS
Oh, what a tangled web of deceit, suspense, mystery, betrayal, and desire Jillian has woven with SUBMIT, book #1 in the Nothing Lasts Forever trilogy. While it began slowly, the buildup to the cliffhanger was the complete opposite, tenson and action running riot.
Orphaned at an early age, Elizabeth 'Libby' Baker has come to learn, in the hardest of ways, that nothing lasts forever. Libby is in a long-term relationship with Willen 'Will' Van den Tweel but has noticed that lately things are not the same, Will has changed. He is transferred to Aruba for work, and Libby hopes that this will be a fresh start for both, unfortunately things remain the same, in fact they get worse. Libby meets Casper, a kitesurfing instructor, immediately the chemistry between them is insanely hot, but Casper is rude, standoffish, it appears as though he doesn't want anything to do with Libby. She can't resist this dark, mysterious man, he's gotten under her skin, why? The heat between them was explosive, yet acting on it would be disastrous, it would change everything Libby thought she knew about herself and her life with Will.
Once the story hits its stride, it becomes fast paced, non-stop action, with plenty of sexual tension and spiciness to make it unputdownable. Being the first book in a trilogy there is the required world building, character building, and so many questions to be answered. Just who is Elizabeth Baker? Whay is she so important? Who is Casper? Why does he keep so many secrets? As the tenson built, so did my heart rate. I cannot wait to read the next book, DEFY, for more of the suspense, intrigue, action, and romance that this story brings.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FOUR STARS
July 21, 2023
Am I rating my own book? You better believe it! I had so much fun writing this story that I had to give it five stars - obvi. Who would publish something they thought was "meh"??
This whole series is meant to be a bingeable, quick read. It's a slow burn so people often feel that it starts slowly. You most likely won't learn any life-changing lessons while reading this series - although themes of love, loyalty, friendship, family, self-respect, and other biggies do make an appearance - but I hope the series transports you to a different place for a while. My hope is that you get lost in their world and feel what they feel and enjoy the escape!
Anyway, I have ZERO education in creative writing. Everything I know about writing, I learned from reading books in the same genre. Because of that, publishing an entire series felt like such a HUGE win.
I spent 8 months of my life with Cas and Libby and I just adore them, but even to me - as the author - they were kind of closed off. They don't trust easily and at times, even I had a hard time communicating with them.
Submit is Libby's story. Told solely from her perspective. It's her life we follow, her emotions we see, her struggles we feel. The next book is from Casper's POV. The story progresses and the location changes, and Book 2 (Defy) is told solely from his POV. There, we meet Cas's demons and get a look in his mind. Book 3 (Reign) is dual POV and the story progresses again with more characters coming into Cas and Libby's lives.
Overall, it was a helluva ride and I hope others enjoy it as much as I did, even after reading each one about fifty times!
This whole series is meant to be a bingeable, quick read. It's a slow burn so people often feel that it starts slowly. You most likely won't learn any life-changing lessons while reading this series - although themes of love, loyalty, friendship, family, self-respect, and other biggies do make an appearance - but I hope the series transports you to a different place for a while. My hope is that you get lost in their world and feel what they feel and enjoy the escape!
Anyway, I have ZERO education in creative writing. Everything I know about writing, I learned from reading books in the same genre. Because of that, publishing an entire series felt like such a HUGE win.
I spent 8 months of my life with Cas and Libby and I just adore them, but even to me - as the author - they were kind of closed off. They don't trust easily and at times, even I had a hard time communicating with them.
Submit is Libby's story. Told solely from her perspective. It's her life we follow, her emotions we see, her struggles we feel. The next book is from Casper's POV. The story progresses and the location changes, and Book 2 (Defy) is told solely from his POV. There, we meet Cas's demons and get a look in his mind. Book 3 (Reign) is dual POV and the story progresses again with more characters coming into Cas and Libby's lives.
Overall, it was a helluva ride and I hope others enjoy it as much as I did, even after reading each one about fifty times!
July 17, 2023
✨📖REVIEW📖✨
Submit by Jillian D. Wray
Pub. date July 24/23
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5
🌶️🌶️ 🌶️ 3/5
WHAT I THOUGHT:
I found this book a little slow to kick off, but I enjoyed the plot and the relationships between the characters.
I think one of the things Wray did best in this book was describing the setting. I really felt like I was there and it aded to the story.
The plot was a little slow, but kept me interested because I wanted answers to the all of the questions that were being brought forth in the beginning of the book.
This is the first in a series with a cliffhanger at the end, so you won't get all of the answers in this book. I'm looking forward to reading book two!
SIMILAR READS:
YOU'LL LIKE THIS IF YOU LIKE:
💕 He's on the run
💕 Small town/community
💕 High suspense
💕 Beautiful setting (Aruba)
💕 Mysterious MMC
💕 New in town FMC
ARC generously provided by in exchange for an honest review.
Submit by Jillian D. Wray
Pub. date July 24/23
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5
🌶️🌶️ 🌶️ 3/5
WHAT I THOUGHT:
I found this book a little slow to kick off, but I enjoyed the plot and the relationships between the characters.
I think one of the things Wray did best in this book was describing the setting. I really felt like I was there and it aded to the story.
The plot was a little slow, but kept me interested because I wanted answers to the all of the questions that were being brought forth in the beginning of the book.
This is the first in a series with a cliffhanger at the end, so you won't get all of the answers in this book. I'm looking forward to reading book two!
SIMILAR READS:
YOU'LL LIKE THIS IF YOU LIKE:
💕 He's on the run
💕 Small town/community
💕 High suspense
💕 Beautiful setting (Aruba)
💕 Mysterious MMC
💕 New in town FMC
ARC generously provided by in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2023
This is the first part of a trilogy. Elizabeth, Libby grew up in an orphanage after she was orphaned at a very young age. She was always alone, yet she she manages to go to college and get her degree. Libby's background has left a lot holes in her knowledge of real life so wehn she meets Will, she falls very quickly for him and almost as quickly moves in with him. Life with Will doesn't live up to what Libby expects, even after they move to Aruba and Will promising her this move means things will change.
The move to Aruba in some ways turns out well for Libby, she starts to find herself. Libby and Will were meant to learn kite surfing together, but Will lets her down so Libby goes ahead without in. Her instructor Casper turns out to be the person who helps Libby find herself. As libby gets closer to Casper, she realises that Will isnt the man for her. But she also starts to find out who Will really is, as secrets and lies unfold. Libby knows that now both she and Casper are in grave danger, can she submit to Casper and survive?
Submit is journey of discovery for Libby and slow burn romance with some suspense and intrigue. I'm looking forward to seeing how this story unfolds in the next 2 books.
The move to Aruba in some ways turns out well for Libby, she starts to find herself. Libby and Will were meant to learn kite surfing together, but Will lets her down so Libby goes ahead without in. Her instructor Casper turns out to be the person who helps Libby find herself. As libby gets closer to Casper, she realises that Will isnt the man for her. But she also starts to find out who Will really is, as secrets and lies unfold. Libby knows that now both she and Casper are in grave danger, can she submit to Casper and survive?
Submit is journey of discovery for Libby and slow burn romance with some suspense and intrigue. I'm looking forward to seeing how this story unfolds in the next 2 books.
September 4, 2023
🖤𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚌 𝚂𝚞𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚗𝚜𝚎/ 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
💕𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️//𝟻
𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖:
Thank you so much to @jillian_wray_author and @rrbooktours for the opportunity to read and review this book!
This book was so good! Submit is Book 1 in the Nothing Lasts Forever trilogy and follows the story of our FMC, Libby🖤 She is in a relationship with Willem, but after he gets promoted and they moved to Aruba, he leaves her alone time and again for work. She then meets Casper (and his emerald green eyes🥹), her kite surfing instructor, and there is an immediate connection. When it’s revealed that Willem is not who Libby thought he was, Casper is there to comfort her and keep her safe.
This book definitely has something for everyone! Romance, suspense, mystery… I was pulled in from the start and devoured it.
I loved Libby - she was so easy to connect with and I absolutely loved the chemistry and slow burn romance she shared with Casper! The action definitely picked up towards the second half of the book and I literally could not put it down. I needed to know what happened once everyone’s secrets started unraveling! There were betrayals and lies and twists and turns and just a roller coaster of emotions!
I will for sure be reading the rest of this series because I need to know what happens next!
💕🖤💕🖤💕
💕𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️//𝟻
𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖:
Thank you so much to @jillian_wray_author and @rrbooktours for the opportunity to read and review this book!
This book was so good! Submit is Book 1 in the Nothing Lasts Forever trilogy and follows the story of our FMC, Libby🖤 She is in a relationship with Willem, but after he gets promoted and they moved to Aruba, he leaves her alone time and again for work. She then meets Casper (and his emerald green eyes🥹), her kite surfing instructor, and there is an immediate connection. When it’s revealed that Willem is not who Libby thought he was, Casper is there to comfort her and keep her safe.
This book definitely has something for everyone! Romance, suspense, mystery… I was pulled in from the start and devoured it.
I loved Libby - she was so easy to connect with and I absolutely loved the chemistry and slow burn romance she shared with Casper! The action definitely picked up towards the second half of the book and I literally could not put it down. I needed to know what happened once everyone’s secrets started unraveling! There were betrayals and lies and twists and turns and just a roller coaster of emotions!
I will for sure be reading the rest of this series because I need to know what happens next!
💕🖤💕🖤💕
July 24, 2023
3.5 stars
Talk about a way to kick off a series! While I wish I had known that Submit was the first of an ongoing saga for Libby I can honestly say that I'm not even that upset about it. There was just so much happening that it couldn't all be contained into one book.
I liked Libby. She was finding herself again in her new surroundings. Also finding out some harsh truths that had her asking questions she should've already known the answers to. But you don't know what you don't know so....It didn't hurt that the one giving her some semblance of safety was the dark and mysterious (and seriously sexy) Casper.
There was no denying the instant sparks between Libby and Casper. And waiting for them to act on it was such a torturous low burn. But man was it worth the wait. But Casper kept everything close to the chest. He had to, his life depended on it. And when it caught up to him, all bets were off.
Talk about intense. I felt like I was holding my breath the final third of the book to see how it would all pan out. And holy crap was it fiery and explosive. I can't wait to see what Jillian D Wray has in store for Libby and Casper next.
Talk about a way to kick off a series! While I wish I had known that Submit was the first of an ongoing saga for Libby I can honestly say that I'm not even that upset about it. There was just so much happening that it couldn't all be contained into one book.
I liked Libby. She was finding herself again in her new surroundings. Also finding out some harsh truths that had her asking questions she should've already known the answers to. But you don't know what you don't know so....It didn't hurt that the one giving her some semblance of safety was the dark and mysterious (and seriously sexy) Casper.
There was no denying the instant sparks between Libby and Casper. And waiting for them to act on it was such a torturous low burn. But man was it worth the wait. But Casper kept everything close to the chest. He had to, his life depended on it. And when it caught up to him, all bets were off.
Talk about intense. I felt like I was holding my breath the final third of the book to see how it would all pan out. And holy crap was it fiery and explosive. I can't wait to see what Jillian D Wray has in store for Libby and Casper next.
July 24, 2023
Submit was a story that started a little slow for me, but once it hit its stride, I couldn't turn the pages quickly enough. Our heroine Libby hasn't had the best life as she ended up orphaned at a young age, and her journey from then on really gave her some understandable abandonment issues. She meets Will in college, and was definitely okay with him taking over her life because she felt safe with him at first. Their relationship took on a toxic element as he knew how to manipulate her perfectly so I couldn't stand him to be honest. She ends up moving to Aruba with her now fiance Will, and life wasn't getting any better but then she met Casper, her kitesurfing instructor. He's good for her but he's very closed off himself so I was getting suspicious of him as well, but the heart wants what the heart wants. Turns out Casper knows some things, and he's doing his best to warn her off her fiance, Will, but will said fiance let her go at the end of the day?! Yeah, there are twists coming in hot at this point which is where I got so excited because I'm all about suspense at the end of the day. I'm super excited to read what is coming next so I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
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