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Private #1
Private Message
Tess has never had sex. Believe it or not, she’s never had a decent kiss.
The aspiring Seattle painter and photographer is still recovering from the trauma of being beaten and nearly raped at a rock show nearly three years before. So she keeps life simple: she goes to school, goes to work in a coffee shop, goes home, goes on living.
But then Ben’s naked body crashes—almost literally—through Tess’s wall against the world.
Ben is doing his dad’s art-teacher girlfriend a favor when he agrees to pose nude for her drawing class. But what he draws is the interest of the irresistible punk-looking girl—and it’s interest he reciprocates, with interest.
Their sexual chemistry is too much to resist. But it’s when they have their clothes on that their heat quickly slips on ice. Ben’s womanizing history is one thing, but it’s history of another kind—related to that fateful night at the rock show—that threatens to tear the young lovers apart forever.
The aspiring Seattle painter and photographer is still recovering from the trauma of being beaten and nearly raped at a rock show nearly three years before. So she keeps life simple: she goes to school, goes to work in a coffee shop, goes home, goes on living.
But then Ben’s naked body crashes—almost literally—through Tess’s wall against the world.
Ben is doing his dad’s art-teacher girlfriend a favor when he agrees to pose nude for her drawing class. But what he draws is the interest of the irresistible punk-looking girl—and it’s interest he reciprocates, with interest.
Their sexual chemistry is too much to resist. But it’s when they have their clothes on that their heat quickly slips on ice. Ben’s womanizing history is one thing, but it’s history of another kind—related to that fateful night at the rock show—that threatens to tear the young lovers apart forever.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2013
29 people are currently reading
2122 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Torella
8 books328 followersHi! I am Danielle live in Western New York with my husband and two sons. I never knew I had a dream to become a writer until I started becoming obsessed with reading in the last few years. The obsession began with Twilight and then matured to Fifty Shades. While used to reading mainstream best sellers, found a new love for indie authors.
I love to do paintings related to the books I read and eventually turning into Pushy Girl Paintings and now do work for other indie writers and readers.
My first book idea started from a dream I had one night and became obsessed with the story and started writing. Now having arguments with the people in my head and loving every moment of it, even when they take control of the story.
I love to do paintings related to the books I read and eventually turning into Pushy Girl Paintings and now do work for other indie writers and readers.
My first book idea started from a dream I had one night and became obsessed with the story and started writing. Now having arguments with the people in my head and loving every moment of it, even when they take control of the story.
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November 27, 2020
Book – Private Message (Private #1)
Author – Danielle Torella
Publication Date – May 27, 2013
Type – Part of Series (Cliffhanger)
Genre – Romance
Rating – 3 out of 5 Stars
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Review
I received a copy of this book since I am reviewing the 2nd book in this series and I do have to say – I loved the synopsis and story line of the book but the “guts”…..ahhh – I just liked.
It could have been that there was part of the book and what our heroine did and thought really irked me. She put so much emphasis on a stranger just dropping her off at the hospital instead of staying with her to make sure she was not alone. Now…..HELLO??? Seriously? Like he just didn’t beat the shit out of the guy who was trying to rape you….search you out under a mosh pit to carry you to safety and then drive you to the hospital to make sure you were in good hands before he left? I would fucking be kissing his feet for being such a hero!! Where were all the other people at the concert while this was happening? Did anyone else step forward to try and help you? I didn’t think so….so go take your whiny ass….be a tree and leaf!
So….*whew…..OK….let me get back to my review…..Like I said – I liked the book – I loved the storyline…it was pretty ingenious having a bar where “texting” for hook-ups is the norm. I do have to give props to the author for this being her debut book and like many other authors who get comfortable after a bit with writing….that leaves me with “waiting in anticipation” to read her next book in the series.
Re-Cap
Tess is an art student who keeps mainly to herself….One night after being late to art class and only getting a back view shot of the naked male model, she decides to unwind with a drink….she ends up at a bar that seems pretty strange. Everyone is on their cell phones texting it up. In bounces Erin (literally) to explain the situation to Tess and they become friends instantly….two opposites attract. Erin explains the rules and especially about a mysterious womanizer who always sits in the back corner and NEVER EVER private messages….but it doesn’t stop him from leaving with a different woman each night.
Tess is mesmerized by him “Big Ben” (yeah conceited much?) and to her surprise when she gets home that night….low and behold…..there is a private message on her phone from the bar account….and who do you think it is? I’m not going to insult your intelligence and answer that question.
Cause here’s the next one…..the next time Tess goes to her art class and gets there early in order to get a front seat for the naked male model….who do you think this raven haired beauty is? Yup….you guessed it again!
Well, now that fate has taken a hand in Tess and Ben’s love life….sparks will fly (oh did I mention that Tess is a virgin?) Also, Tess has been in love with her "Book Boyfriends" and never a "real" guy.
Wrap Up
Parts are predictable and parts made me slam my head into the wall…but overall it was a cute and likable story. Again, I want to stress that this is a debut novel ----- I am anticipating to see how this author matured in her writing.
Author – Danielle Torella
Publication Date – May 27, 2013
Type – Part of Series (Cliffhanger)
Genre – Romance
Rating – 3 out of 5 Stars
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Review
I received a copy of this book since I am reviewing the 2nd book in this series and I do have to say – I loved the synopsis and story line of the book but the “guts”…..ahhh – I just liked.
It could have been that there was part of the book and what our heroine did and thought really irked me. She put so much emphasis on a stranger just dropping her off at the hospital instead of staying with her to make sure she was not alone. Now…..HELLO??? Seriously? Like he just didn’t beat the shit out of the guy who was trying to rape you….search you out under a mosh pit to carry you to safety and then drive you to the hospital to make sure you were in good hands before he left? I would fucking be kissing his feet for being such a hero!! Where were all the other people at the concert while this was happening? Did anyone else step forward to try and help you? I didn’t think so….so go take your whiny ass….be a tree and leaf!
So….*whew…..OK….let me get back to my review…..Like I said – I liked the book – I loved the storyline…it was pretty ingenious having a bar where “texting” for hook-ups is the norm. I do have to give props to the author for this being her debut book and like many other authors who get comfortable after a bit with writing….that leaves me with “waiting in anticipation” to read her next book in the series.
Re-Cap
Tess is an art student who keeps mainly to herself….One night after being late to art class and only getting a back view shot of the naked male model, she decides to unwind with a drink….she ends up at a bar that seems pretty strange. Everyone is on their cell phones texting it up. In bounces Erin (literally) to explain the situation to Tess and they become friends instantly….two opposites attract. Erin explains the rules and especially about a mysterious womanizer who always sits in the back corner and NEVER EVER private messages….but it doesn’t stop him from leaving with a different woman each night.
Tess is mesmerized by him “Big Ben” (yeah conceited much?) and to her surprise when she gets home that night….low and behold…..there is a private message on her phone from the bar account….and who do you think it is? I’m not going to insult your intelligence and answer that question.
Cause here’s the next one…..the next time Tess goes to her art class and gets there early in order to get a front seat for the naked male model….who do you think this raven haired beauty is? Yup….you guessed it again!
Well, now that fate has taken a hand in Tess and Ben’s love life….sparks will fly (oh did I mention that Tess is a virgin?) Also, Tess has been in love with her "Book Boyfriends" and never a "real" guy.
Wrap Up
Parts are predictable and parts made me slam my head into the wall…but overall it was a cute and likable story. Again, I want to stress that this is a debut novel ----- I am anticipating to see how this author matured in her writing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2016
This book had a lot of potential, and I had been eager to read it for that reason alone. This was a new story in the world of romance books and seemed like it would not be like the number of cookie cutter plots I have read recently. I will be honest though, it was painful to read. There are a significant number of grammatical errors including missing words, incomplete thoughts, and a random use of punctuation which all distract from the story.
Although I think the general idea behind this story is unique, as it is written, the book felt both rushed and forced. I felt like there could have been a lot more character development. The way the characters are haphazardly put together made me inclined to not care what happened to them, and by the end of the book, I was just reading to get to the end.
Tess sounds like the type of young, sheltered girl that is not quite sure how the world or a relationship works. The fighting between her and Ben was random and made me think she was quite emotional and moody.
The multiple points of view in the book started off okay, but they did not follow the same format throughout the book and made things somewhat confusing. There were times where the view changed and it was not indicated to the reader.
Overall, if I were to make a few recommendations to this author, they would be to go back and really proof the story, take some time to develop the characters, and consider the flow of the book while asking yourself if it makes sense to someone off the street picking the book up for the first time. Although it seems that the author has spent a fair amount of time on the characters in her own mind, there was a lack transfer of that information to the book. I constantly forgot where Ben was from, I have no idea what Tess looks like above the neck (Although I am able to describe no fewer than 3 different pairs of her panties). If the author were to read this book out loud, I can promise they would catch 80% of the errors, and correcting those would improve this book immensely.
Although I think the general idea behind this story is unique, as it is written, the book felt both rushed and forced. I felt like there could have been a lot more character development. The way the characters are haphazardly put together made me inclined to not care what happened to them, and by the end of the book, I was just reading to get to the end.
Tess sounds like the type of young, sheltered girl that is not quite sure how the world or a relationship works. The fighting between her and Ben was random and made me think she was quite emotional and moody.
The multiple points of view in the book started off okay, but they did not follow the same format throughout the book and made things somewhat confusing. There were times where the view changed and it was not indicated to the reader.
Overall, if I were to make a few recommendations to this author, they would be to go back and really proof the story, take some time to develop the characters, and consider the flow of the book while asking yourself if it makes sense to someone off the street picking the book up for the first time. Although it seems that the author has spent a fair amount of time on the characters in her own mind, there was a lack transfer of that information to the book. I constantly forgot where Ben was from, I have no idea what Tess looks like above the neck (Although I am able to describe no fewer than 3 different pairs of her panties). If the author were to read this book out loud, I can promise they would catch 80% of the errors, and correcting those would improve this book immensely.
June 6, 2013
A beautiful tale of fate. This was a great story. It's the definition. Of fate working its magic. Two broken people who saved each other. There chance meeting at a bar led to a beautiful ending.
Ben- you started a broken soul who had no clue of the love you possessed . Trying to find yourself you found a true love. Tess- you beautiful broken soul what you went thru was just so sad. You opened your heart to a man that fate brought to you again and again I'm glad you found it in your heart to answer fate.
This story is really beautiful I love how they meet and meet and oh meet again lol. Fate has away of being in your face till you answer the call. Ben saves Tess 3 years before they meet and because he had no clue who he was he walks away without a name. Then again he's drawn to a girl at a chat room bar (Chatz brilliant idea.) but yet again leaves with out a name. Tess is constantly late for class and only sees the back of a beautiful man. She's sees a beautiful man at a bar but isn't assertive enough to take that chance. Well don't worry fate steps right back in and she comes face to naked body of her beautiful stranger . They start a beautiful love affair until her past comes right back in her face. Ben once again saves her and never intends to let her go again. It was meant to be fate always wins.
I really loved this story a truly captivating love story I read in one sitting.
Ben- you started a broken soul who had no clue of the love you possessed . Trying to find yourself you found a true love. Tess- you beautiful broken soul what you went thru was just so sad. You opened your heart to a man that fate brought to you again and again I'm glad you found it in your heart to answer fate.
This story is really beautiful I love how they meet and meet and oh meet again lol. Fate has away of being in your face till you answer the call. Ben saves Tess 3 years before they meet and because he had no clue who he was he walks away without a name. Then again he's drawn to a girl at a chat room bar (Chatz brilliant idea.) but yet again leaves with out a name. Tess is constantly late for class and only sees the back of a beautiful man. She's sees a beautiful man at a bar but isn't assertive enough to take that chance. Well don't worry fate steps right back in and she comes face to naked body of her beautiful stranger . They start a beautiful love affair until her past comes right back in her face. Ben once again saves her and never intends to let her go again. It was meant to be fate always wins.
I really loved this story a truly captivating love story I read in one sitting.
May 28, 2013
PRIVATE MESSAGE by Danielle Torella
Publication Date: May 31, 2013
Reviewed by: Reading In Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 5 Stars
REVIEW:
I absolutely loved this book! I requested the book to read and review after spotting the hot cover on Facebook this morning and I sat down to read it not really knowing what to expect because this is the author’s first book. I was blown away! Private Message has a unique plot, great characters, and it is a great love story. Once I picked it up I could not put it down. I loved the characters in this book! Ben, sigh! I just loved him from his winks, to his smirks, to his sexy tats. Danielle Torella gives the reader both Ben and Tess’s story told from each of their prospectives, and this really made me feel connected to the characters. I love a good romance story, and this is an incredible romance story. Ben and Tess had instant chemistry and attraction that simmered and heated the pages. I don’t often find a book I really connect with like this one. You know that special feeling you get when you read an incredible book, and it leaves you excited, giddy, and happy when you’re done reading it? This is one of those books! It had everything I look for in a great story. I highly recommend this book and I can’t wait for it to be released so the rest of you can read it!
*Review copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Publication Date: May 31, 2013
Reviewed by: Reading In Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 5 Stars
REVIEW:
I absolutely loved this book! I requested the book to read and review after spotting the hot cover on Facebook this morning and I sat down to read it not really knowing what to expect because this is the author’s first book. I was blown away! Private Message has a unique plot, great characters, and it is a great love story. Once I picked it up I could not put it down. I loved the characters in this book! Ben, sigh! I just loved him from his winks, to his smirks, to his sexy tats. Danielle Torella gives the reader both Ben and Tess’s story told from each of their prospectives, and this really made me feel connected to the characters. I love a good romance story, and this is an incredible romance story. Ben and Tess had instant chemistry and attraction that simmered and heated the pages. I don’t often find a book I really connect with like this one. You know that special feeling you get when you read an incredible book, and it leaves you excited, giddy, and happy when you’re done reading it? This is one of those books! It had everything I look for in a great story. I highly recommend this book and I can’t wait for it to be released so the rest of you can read it!
*Review copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2013
I don't know why but I just couldn't get into this book. I found myself skimming through some of it. The story itself was unique don't get me wrong. Something a little different is always good. It just didn't grab me like I hoped it would. The twists and turns in the story just weren't that exciting . I was waiting for that shock and awe moment or the "OMG" climax moment but it feel flat for me. I'm an avid romance reader so like everyone I've read a lot of pretty sexy guys. Guys that made me wanna lick my kindle! But Ben just didn't do it for me. Physically he sounds yummy but as far as having any hot sizzling sex appeal...he just didn't have it. I guess my bar is set too high so maybe it's just me. I don't know. I will give the author credit being that it is her first novel. Some authors knock it out of the park w/ for their first time but others fall flat. I wouldn't say this book was a complete failure it's just missing that "wow" factor for me and some serious sex appeal. As for Tess, she was kinda boring for me. I didn't find her that interesting or entertaining at all.
If this author were to write another novel, I would read it don't get me wrong. She can only get better with time and more practice.
If this author were to write another novel, I would read it don't get me wrong. She can only get better with time and more practice.
July 20, 2013
Ummmm, why does this have so many good reviews? Did we read the same book? Wow, so I usually leave my one star ratings for books I HATE... Like Bloodrose. (Still working on my anger over that book) I did not have hatred for this book. I do HATE that I paid for this though! But I can't rate it 2 stars because it was not "OK." Not in my opinion. In fact I wanted to stop reading several times, but I refused to stop because I freaking PAID for this!
I seriously thought this was written by a teenager, until I got to the end and read About The Author. I don't think I should be to hard on her because I have never written a book. It's impressive to finish a whole book. You have my kudos and congratulations. BUT, just because you finish a book, doesn't mean the work is done. I would hope that my friends and family would be honest with me and let me know that some editing and tweaking needed to be done before I tried to sell the story and have PRINTED copies made! In one part of the book, I read the same paragraph twice! I'm assuming the author just meant to move it, but instead of cutting and pasting, she copied and pasted... and nobody caught that before she published it?! That kind of stuff irritates me.
With that said, I can usually look past editing issues if it is a good story... but it wasn't! Both of the main characters were immature and inconsistent. I thought they made decisions with little to no motive. Also, just because the author says something is true, does not make it true for the character if they consistently do the opposite. For example there is a part in the book where Tess says:
I trust Erin, which is a major thing for me.
And yet Tess meets Erin and calls her her BFF after one night of talking, and AFTER Erin shows Ben where Tess lives without her permission. Same with Ben, she says she doesn't trust easily, and yet she gave herself to Ben, the womanizer, with very little coaxing.
I also couldn't stand the cockiness that both of these characters had. They both thought very highly of themselves with comments like:
"Right now, I am looking pretty bada** in his eyes."
"...because, well, let's face it, even I know I'm f***ing sexy,"
Those are just two out of many examples from both of the characters. It was annoying. So basically I am just ripping on this book, I'll stop. I'm not going to bother to talk about what the story is about because I just wouldn't recommend it to anyone. I didn't like it at all but what makes me the most angry is that, again, I paid money for this!
I will say this though, I liked the cover. The cover is pretty hott! Love the tattoos. It is a major reason I bought it. :/
Oh yeah, and a very frequent mistake that drove me up the wall was "Oh common." That doesn't make any sense. It's "Oh come on." How did no one catch that?
May 28, 2013
First of i would like to THANK Danielle for the ARC copy of Private Message !! Second i will try to do my review so it gives the book justice and try not to give away to many spoilers !!
Private Message is not your typical romance. Its Not for the faint of heart but its a AMAZING read about two lost people finding love in a not so typical way !! **** SPOILERS ****
Tess is a 22 year old Coffee Barista,Painter,and Photographer who is also a Virgin who had never really been kissed ! Tess was nearley raped and badly beaten at a rock concert 3 years ago that's why she lives the life she dose, School, Work, Home, repeat. On Day in art class there assignment was to sketch a naked male. When Tess seen the man she was in awwww. She had a feeling that she has never felt before !!
Ben is a 25 year old womanizer who who works for a Music Magazine he dose not sleep with the same girl twice... When Ben and Tess end up at the same club something happens that neither of them are expecting... Ben feels something he hasen't felt in along time !
Tess has walls built around her heart so high she wont let them fall.
Ben has been burnt in the past and wont let himself love for the fear of being burnt again. Tess comes into his life like a ray of sunshine and turns the grey skys blue ! Can Two people thats been wroned make one another right again? Can a person with no past love someone with a past? Most of all can to people fall in love when the cards are stacked against the from the very begining??
Private Message is a AMAZING book filled with lust & love and more Twists than a Roller Coaster !! Danielle went above and beyond to pull you in from the very begining and making you want more after the End !!!
Private Message is not your typical romance. Its Not for the faint of heart but its a AMAZING read about two lost people finding love in a not so typical way !! **** SPOILERS ****
Tess is a 22 year old Coffee Barista,Painter,and Photographer who is also a Virgin who had never really been kissed ! Tess was nearley raped and badly beaten at a rock concert 3 years ago that's why she lives the life she dose, School, Work, Home, repeat. On Day in art class there assignment was to sketch a naked male. When Tess seen the man she was in awwww. She had a feeling that she has never felt before !!
Ben is a 25 year old womanizer who who works for a Music Magazine he dose not sleep with the same girl twice... When Ben and Tess end up at the same club something happens that neither of them are expecting... Ben feels something he hasen't felt in along time !
Tess has walls built around her heart so high she wont let them fall.
Ben has been burnt in the past and wont let himself love for the fear of being burnt again. Tess comes into his life like a ray of sunshine and turns the grey skys blue ! Can Two people thats been wroned make one another right again? Can a person with no past love someone with a past? Most of all can to people fall in love when the cards are stacked against the from the very begining??
Private Message is a AMAZING book filled with lust & love and more Twists than a Roller Coaster !! Danielle went above and beyond to pull you in from the very begining and making you want more after the End !!!
May 31, 2013
I have just completed it... I have never really wrote that many book reviews but this one deserves one!! Goodreads doesn't offer enough stars for this one 5 just doesn't seem like enough!! I related to this book maybe it's bc I see Danielle Torella's post on IG and FB and of course SMIBookclub! You brought out things I'm used to seeing or talking about!! And I have this love for Adam Levine so when you put him in there I was completely in love lol!! I love music also so I really enjoyed that they were both so into music because I use it as a way to calm myself as well!!! Ok I loved the whole book if I sat here and wrote everything I enjoyed I might as well just say "hey chapters 1-25 I like that shit" hahaha!! Any ways I really recommend it... It has a different feel than any other books I have read lately!!! Yay for Ben and Tess the characters really came alive to me and that's what I look for in books!!! Congrats on your first book love it was amazing I hope you write another...... Oh and it has inspired me to actually try my own dreams out you are an idol for me shows that all you have to do is try!!! :) thank you so much for writing this book!!!
June 1, 2013
Obsessive easy reading is one of the things I love to find with an author! Words flow, you CONNECT with their characters & you understand everything in the storyline! These are things I love about books, mostly that YOU CAN NOT for the LOVE of GOD put the book down!
Private Message -
Sooooooo 1st of all Danielle Torella IS Amazzzzing!!!
Danielle's 1st book and it's ACTUALLY IN My top books I've read?!?!
How completely CRAZY IS that?
Everything about this book was great, different setting, unique characters, crazy cool bar/chatz scene! Loved It! Right down to the connection of the characters past & PRESENT. Ben and Tess..... Ahhhhh. I love Tess' crazy punky style, personality & charm. Big_Ben..... I mean HOT, Sexy, Panty-Dropper Doesn't even start to cover him...Annndddd Together They're SWOON-Worthy for sure! I love them!
I DEFINTLEY Recommend PRIVATE MESSAGE!!! Aaaaannnnndddddd CAN'T Wait for more to come from Danielle Torella, because this is ONLY the beginning for this PUSHY GIRL!
Private Message -
Sooooooo 1st of all Danielle Torella IS Amazzzzing!!!
Danielle's 1st book and it's ACTUALLY IN My top books I've read?!?!
How completely CRAZY IS that?
Everything about this book was great, different setting, unique characters, crazy cool bar/chatz scene! Loved It! Right down to the connection of the characters past & PRESENT. Ben and Tess..... Ahhhhh. I love Tess' crazy punky style, personality & charm. Big_Ben..... I mean HOT, Sexy, Panty-Dropper Doesn't even start to cover him...Annndddd Together They're SWOON-Worthy for sure! I love them!
I DEFINTLEY Recommend PRIVATE MESSAGE!!! Aaaaannnnndddddd CAN'T Wait for more to come from Danielle Torella, because this is ONLY the beginning for this PUSHY GIRL!
May 31, 2013
The cover is steaming hot which dragged me in to wanting to read this book.. Quick hot steamy unique read..The only thing I wished for was that it was longer..*Sighs* Loved Ben, like come on he sounds hot!! But Tess yeah she was kind of hard to picture..But overall a really good read..
May 31, 2013
This book started out great and then went off the rails the last 25%. The story line took a turn that was so out there that it wasn't even plausible. Too bad, it was a solid 4 for me then down to a 2.5 or 3.
June 9, 2013
Would have given it 5 stars, but damn the grammar!!!! PROOF. YO. SHIT!!!!
January 3, 2015
*ARC Given to Blog for Honest Review*
3 “Punky” Kisses
The concept for this book intrigued me. Plus the title did too, there is a lot of promise with just the title alone. I went into it with an open mind to see where the characters would take me…and I have to say it surprised me a little.
Tess Martin is quirky…spunky (as well as punky lol)…she’s a tiny little thing, super cute…she’s different and unique. She’s also scared…damaged from her past. She’s got school and work to keep her busy, and then of course her hobbies. She’s good with her life and then her life gets a little shake up…okay so he’s not ‘little’ :-P
‘You mess with my wine, caffeine, paint, music, or my camera you better prepare to feel my wrath.’
Ben Mitchell…mmmm…he’s British. Do I need to say anything else? Nope! :-) But I will. He’s tall, dark, handsome…and British ;-) Yes, I did have to mention that again. There is a draw back…he’s a man whore. He’s got his damaged past too…which is the result of his ‘man whore-ness’…it’s easier to ignore and desensitize, than to deal with it. I don’t blame him, but I just know he’s better than that.
‘But I don't want a one-nighter with this girl. No, I want much, much more, and that scares the crap out of me.'
The way they meet is cute…they way they reconnect is cuter…I felt the pull, their draw, their attraction. But it was quick. It wasn’t insta-love, but things developed very quickly, which did surprise me. I have to think that if I felt it as much with what was written, I can only imagine how much more powerful it could have been if it had be delved into deeper - expanded on and developed more. The book is in both Tess and Ben’s POV’s…mainly Tess but I did like seeing Ben’s POV, especially at the end when we get to see a particular part of his past that obviously can only be told from his POV. I liked being in both of their heads, they make me smile, Tess’s inner thoughts are actually quite hilarious.
‘“Ben, why are you here? And would you stop apologizing?”
He lets out a throaty moan. Oh my… “I want you. I want you so bad, it actually hurts. I am physically aching for you.” His eyes are slits and he’s leaning in closer to me.’
So…here’s what surprised me: I’m kind of at a loss for words because…I liked this book…the characters were great, story was good, it was an enjoyable read…but it didn’t blow me away like I was hoping. So I’m surprised because when I say I’m at a loss for words, I really am. That’s not me saying it was a bad book – but like I said I’m at a loss because I don’t know what else to say besides, it was good and I enjoyed it. That doesn’t happen to me very often.
‘He brings his right hand up to my cheek and then his left. “Do you understand that?” I nod. “Good, because I am going to kiss you now, then I am going to stop, because I want to make damn sure you want me to do it again. There’s no rush with us.” I don’t say a word.’
There were some things that didn’t work for me, things that broke the flow and made me pause for a moment. For example, from what I read…I do not believe this book was edited. I can forgive some editing mistakes, I’m no ‘master of the editing world’ by far…but if there are enough things to distract me from enjoying the story, then that’s too much for me. And once again, I did feel the ‘pull’ between Ben and Tess, but it happened very quickly and within a matter of days Tess went from being perfectly okay with being a virgin to ready to loose it with Ben…practically overnight and ‘just because’. I mean maybe I misunderstood her character but this seemed a little odd. There were also a few other minor things here and there…like calling a girl she had just met and hung out with two times her new best friend – not really sure how that happened. And it was a little convenient that not only did she stumble into the bar that Ben normally frequented, but he was also the nude model in her art class as well as being tied to a traumatic event for her. That’s a lot of coincidences to happen and get hit upside the head with all in the span of a few weeks. I also felt the ending was a little rushed and weird. It was kind of an HEA, but it was awkward. I guess I’m not sure what I was expecting at the end but I went with it.
“What makes you think I want to be your girlfriend?”
‘He leans in close to my ear, brushing his lips against my cheek and says, “Because what you and I have is the most important thing to me and I will not let you slip through my fingers, that and you’re not the ‘fuck ‘em and leave ‘em’ kind of girl.”’
Regardless…I’ve been left with more positive feelings then bad ones and I kind of hate that I had some problems with it because without the issues I had had with the book, it would have been a terrific/fantastic/amazing read. There was that emotion and connection between the two characters that I love so much in books, but unfortunately I needed more. This wasn’t a perfect book, but it was a cute, sweet read that I did enjoy.
3 “Punky” Kisses
The concept for this book intrigued me. Plus the title did too, there is a lot of promise with just the title alone. I went into it with an open mind to see where the characters would take me…and I have to say it surprised me a little.
Tess Martin is quirky…spunky (as well as punky lol)…she’s a tiny little thing, super cute…she’s different and unique. She’s also scared…damaged from her past. She’s got school and work to keep her busy, and then of course her hobbies. She’s good with her life and then her life gets a little shake up…okay so he’s not ‘little’ :-P
‘You mess with my wine, caffeine, paint, music, or my camera you better prepare to feel my wrath.’
Ben Mitchell…mmmm…he’s British. Do I need to say anything else? Nope! :-) But I will. He’s tall, dark, handsome…and British ;-) Yes, I did have to mention that again. There is a draw back…he’s a man whore. He’s got his damaged past too…which is the result of his ‘man whore-ness’…it’s easier to ignore and desensitize, than to deal with it. I don’t blame him, but I just know he’s better than that.
‘But I don't want a one-nighter with this girl. No, I want much, much more, and that scares the crap out of me.'
The way they meet is cute…they way they reconnect is cuter…I felt the pull, their draw, their attraction. But it was quick. It wasn’t insta-love, but things developed very quickly, which did surprise me. I have to think that if I felt it as much with what was written, I can only imagine how much more powerful it could have been if it had be delved into deeper - expanded on and developed more. The book is in both Tess and Ben’s POV’s…mainly Tess but I did like seeing Ben’s POV, especially at the end when we get to see a particular part of his past that obviously can only be told from his POV. I liked being in both of their heads, they make me smile, Tess’s inner thoughts are actually quite hilarious.
‘“Ben, why are you here? And would you stop apologizing?”
He lets out a throaty moan. Oh my… “I want you. I want you so bad, it actually hurts. I am physically aching for you.” His eyes are slits and he’s leaning in closer to me.’
So…here’s what surprised me: I’m kind of at a loss for words because…I liked this book…the characters were great, story was good, it was an enjoyable read…but it didn’t blow me away like I was hoping. So I’m surprised because when I say I’m at a loss for words, I really am. That’s not me saying it was a bad book – but like I said I’m at a loss because I don’t know what else to say besides, it was good and I enjoyed it. That doesn’t happen to me very often.
‘He brings his right hand up to my cheek and then his left. “Do you understand that?” I nod. “Good, because I am going to kiss you now, then I am going to stop, because I want to make damn sure you want me to do it again. There’s no rush with us.” I don’t say a word.’
There were some things that didn’t work for me, things that broke the flow and made me pause for a moment. For example, from what I read…I do not believe this book was edited. I can forgive some editing mistakes, I’m no ‘master of the editing world’ by far…but if there are enough things to distract me from enjoying the story, then that’s too much for me. And once again, I did feel the ‘pull’ between Ben and Tess, but it happened very quickly and within a matter of days Tess went from being perfectly okay with being a virgin to ready to loose it with Ben…practically overnight and ‘just because’. I mean maybe I misunderstood her character but this seemed a little odd. There were also a few other minor things here and there…like calling a girl she had just met and hung out with two times her new best friend – not really sure how that happened. And it was a little convenient that not only did she stumble into the bar that Ben normally frequented, but he was also the nude model in her art class as well as being tied to a traumatic event for her. That’s a lot of coincidences to happen and get hit upside the head with all in the span of a few weeks. I also felt the ending was a little rushed and weird. It was kind of an HEA, but it was awkward. I guess I’m not sure what I was expecting at the end but I went with it.
“What makes you think I want to be your girlfriend?”
‘He leans in close to my ear, brushing his lips against my cheek and says, “Because what you and I have is the most important thing to me and I will not let you slip through my fingers, that and you’re not the ‘fuck ‘em and leave ‘em’ kind of girl.”’
Regardless…I’ve been left with more positive feelings then bad ones and I kind of hate that I had some problems with it because without the issues I had had with the book, it would have been a terrific/fantastic/amazing read. There was that emotion and connection between the two characters that I love so much in books, but unfortunately I needed more. This wasn’t a perfect book, but it was a cute, sweet read that I did enjoy.
June 26, 2013
Buddy read with Funzee Souisa
I was informed by Funzee that some friends are crazy about this book, collect money to buy the paperback. Well, it's lucky for me, I have the e-book instead.
Why did I say lucky? 30% of this book is great, but I was kinda disappointed in a half.
Before reading this, I read "FADING" by E.K. Blair, which I gave 5 sparkling stars.
This book is about sexual assault , as well.
They met at a chat room, reminds me of one dating site where everybody chat, and having a sexual transaction. I was not really 'into' this Ben, for his so called "reputation" with women.
The author tried to make Ben a hero, a faithful man after he met this Tess girl.
He's kind of man who dumped a girl after seeing a fresh new one, like when the night he saw Tess.
I think he lied to Tess twice about all those girls he's about to hooked up, every time he's about to leave with those girls and saw Tess, he said, he's about to dump a girl in the front door. C'mon!
That was a lie Ben!
You just didn't want to lose her, but couldn't seem to hold your libido over some slutty girl and got a hard on all the time!
This was supposed to be a good story if the author built this Ben's character from the beginning, I think it was okay that he's only bad at first, than to show us all he's some asshole in the middle of the story, when he's already have a commitment!
That was somehow annoying.
It was like an anti-climax in the middle...so..
It was a just so-so story for me, not what I expected from the beginning... It's just not my thing, sorry.
I was informed by Funzee that some friends are crazy about this book, collect money to buy the paperback. Well, it's lucky for me, I have the e-book instead.
Why did I say lucky? 30% of this book is great, but I was kinda disappointed in a half.
Before reading this, I read "FADING" by E.K. Blair, which I gave 5 sparkling stars.
This book is about sexual assault , as well.
They met at a chat room, reminds me of one dating site where everybody chat, and having a sexual transaction. I was not really 'into' this Ben, for his so called "reputation" with women.
The author tried to make Ben a hero, a faithful man after he met this Tess girl.
He's kind of man who dumped a girl after seeing a fresh new one, like when the night he saw Tess.
I think he lied to Tess twice about all those girls he's about to hooked up, every time he's about to leave with those girls and saw Tess, he said, he's about to dump a girl in the front door. C'mon!
That was a lie Ben!
You just didn't want to lose her, but couldn't seem to hold your libido over some slutty girl and got a hard on all the time!
This was supposed to be a good story if the author built this Ben's character from the beginning, I think it was okay that he's only bad at first, than to show us all he's some asshole in the middle of the story, when he's already have a commitment!
That was somehow annoying.
It was like an anti-climax in the middle...so..
It was a just so-so story for me, not what I expected from the beginning... It's just not my thing, sorry.
August 25, 2013
I really liked this story. It was short but not too much drama.
Tess & Ben have been connected longer than they both realize. Once they meet each other again they both have had experiences in their lives with trust. They speak very openly to each other about the issues and try to reassure each other that trust will come in time little by little.
Three years ago Tess was almost raped while attending a rock concert. Normally her big brother James would accompany her as her protector but he was unavailable. That night in a crowded rock concert a guy nearly got what he wanted. Thankfully, someone stopped him and she was taken to the ER an attended to.
Since her experience she always attends her concerts with James. She does not date. She mostly goes to art class, works at the cafe, reads her books & stays in her little apartment and paints. That is the life of Tess.
Ben's mother passed away when he was 10 years old. His father got a job in the U.S. as a doctor and Ben, Jack (father) and little sister Caroline moved from London to the U.S. Ben changed from the bad boy in London to a pretty good boy in the U.S. Ben made a great friend Dan & even was engaged at one time. When the engagement went horribly wrong and Dan had moved away Ben started just whoring around. All the woman want to get with him. But he only does it once.
I love the 2 main characters and the way they begin to trust each other.
Tess & Ben have been connected longer than they both realize. Once they meet each other again they both have had experiences in their lives with trust. They speak very openly to each other about the issues and try to reassure each other that trust will come in time little by little.
Three years ago Tess was almost raped while attending a rock concert. Normally her big brother James would accompany her as her protector but he was unavailable. That night in a crowded rock concert a guy nearly got what he wanted. Thankfully, someone stopped him and she was taken to the ER an attended to.
Since her experience she always attends her concerts with James. She does not date. She mostly goes to art class, works at the cafe, reads her books & stays in her little apartment and paints. That is the life of Tess.
Ben's mother passed away when he was 10 years old. His father got a job in the U.S. as a doctor and Ben, Jack (father) and little sister Caroline moved from London to the U.S. Ben changed from the bad boy in London to a pretty good boy in the U.S. Ben made a great friend Dan & even was engaged at one time. When the engagement went horribly wrong and Dan had moved away Ben started just whoring around. All the woman want to get with him. But he only does it once.
I love the 2 main characters and the way they begin to trust each other.
May 29, 2013
The cover of this book is absolutely hot!! I loved the story and the characters are very likable. The steam factor here is scorching but that's not all there is to this book. It's really funny, I was laughing out Loud a lot!! The only draw backs for me where the editing errors and there where times the flow of the story felt like it was off or disjointed. Also I wish this could have been a longer book, there was enough of a good story here to go into the characters more so we could know them better and have even more great twists. I have to say this book got better and better as it went on and I really liked the twist at the end. I will defiantly read more books from this author, I think this was a great debut for her.
May 31, 2013
Start of the novel was cool, I was getting into it but by the end, it made me think, what a waste of a novel.
March 7, 2021
...mom always said if I didn't have anything nice to say than I shouldn't say anything at all...
June 30, 2013
I have struggled with writing this review. I think the plot is great, I know the idea is used a bunch, but for romantics who like to read about a tattooed bad boy falling for the overlooked girl that is `different', it is never tiring. There are some good parts, and some sweet scenes, but there are too many inconsistencies, and things that I didn't like, for me to rate this higher.
I won't go into all the things that bothered me, just the few that clinched my rating. I don't get how Tess can be recovering after 3 years from an attack and attempted rape, go on about how she struggles, yet she just jumps right in to inviting people into her home and opening up to them. Yes, people can have instant connections with another person, I just didn't feel it with Tess, Erin and Ben. Then, the idea that someone is attacked, the police question the attacker and there is a witness, but Tess has no idea who it was, is so ridiculous. Even more so than Ben screwing his way through the greater northwest, yet he doesn't keep condoms in his home. Where does he keep them? Or did he never use them before Tess? At the rate everyone talks about him going, he needed them. For him, it would be economical to buy them in bulk, and the bulk boxes aren't going to look all that great strapped to the back of a Ducati.
I'm not an author; lord knows the only way I could even get a one-star review is because you have to choose at least a one to write the review. But I don't understand how beta readers and editors can read a book, give insight and needed corrections, and still there are as many issues as I found. I hate when people rate a book low, then go on and on about editing issues, but this book had half a page and multiple sentences that were just repeated or didn't fit the scene. It needs edited again, and if I was the author, I would be looking for the person who `edited' it the first time to pay for it to be edited again. The editing is not being used in my rating for the book; I just felt the need to give my opinion.
I won't go into all the things that bothered me, just the few that clinched my rating. I don't get how Tess can be recovering after 3 years from an attack and attempted rape, go on about how she struggles, yet she just jumps right in to inviting people into her home and opening up to them. Yes, people can have instant connections with another person, I just didn't feel it with Tess, Erin and Ben. Then, the idea that someone is attacked, the police question the attacker and there is a witness, but Tess has no idea who it was, is so ridiculous. Even more so than Ben screwing his way through the greater northwest, yet he doesn't keep condoms in his home. Where does he keep them? Or did he never use them before Tess? At the rate everyone talks about him going, he needed them. For him, it would be economical to buy them in bulk, and the bulk boxes aren't going to look all that great strapped to the back of a Ducati.
I'm not an author; lord knows the only way I could even get a one-star review is because you have to choose at least a one to write the review. But I don't understand how beta readers and editors can read a book, give insight and needed corrections, and still there are as many issues as I found. I hate when people rate a book low, then go on and on about editing issues, but this book had half a page and multiple sentences that were just repeated or didn't fit the scene. It needs edited again, and if I was the author, I would be looking for the person who `edited' it the first time to pay for it to be edited again. The editing is not being used in my rating for the book; I just felt the need to give my opinion.
June 26, 2013
The truth is…
I have no intention to read this book this now …
But, one of my friend asking about this book last night.
She told me that her friends recommended this book to her and said that “It’s good”.
So, I go to Goodreads to seek some information about this book and ended with curiosity.
Then I told Lelyana - my buddy read - about this book, and we both decided to have “One Night Stand” with this book, Lol…
If Freddy Mercury's said “Too much love will kill you” , in my case, it became “Too much curiosity will “kill” you” !
If you need a fun light quick reading, this one is what you need…
It’s light…quick…but fun ?
I don’t think so…
I have “good expectation” about this book.
Drop dead gorgeous player with tattoo…
Virgin heroine…
Sexual assault issue…
Abuse…
Tortured hero/heroine…
Hmm…sound yummy and promising…
Me likey…
First half book is very “interesting”, “entertaining”, “fun”, make me giggling at some part, feels like watching sitcom. “Love” it !
BUT…the others half of this book reaaaaally make me bored.
I dunno why, but I feel the story not “strong” enough , the conflict too “typical” , lil bit annoyed with both Ben and Tess, I didn’t get what I expected before…
At some part I feel like “dejavu” with E.K. Blair’s “Fading”.
I know the author want to make Ben’s character as “hero”, but I don’t get it…
Half end of the book is like anti climax for me…
Even the twist in the end didn’t impress me much…
Sorry, that's didn't impress me MUCH !
Overall, the book is just "so-so" for me.
Sorry...
June 19, 2013
Review of Private Message by Danielle Torella
Book provided by author for honest review.
(No spoilers!)
I have to start off with WOW. I love that this book wasn’t a cookie cutter of what so many other authors are doing these days. Yes, there was romance, sex, rockstars, drama, and all sorts of other things you see in the New Adult/contemporary romance genres, but this book stands apart in that the lives of the characters aren’t picture perfect. We don’t meet millionaire Rock Gods, okay, well we do, but they aren’t really part of the story… just some yummy icing on top of the cake. There are REAL people with REAL lives and REAL jobs in this book, I mean it wouldn’t be worth reading if it weren’t a little out there as far as reality goes (who wants to read about real life anyway) Danielle found the balance between REAL people and those fictional characters we all roll our eyes and think “yeah, right” while we read.
Tess, she isn’t famous, she isn’t rich, she is a struggling student that slings coffee for a living. She has had some hard knocks in life and those knocks shaped who she is… real right? She is someone that I would instantly want to be friends with, maybe even stalk a little if she tried to fight it. I have a little bit of a girl crush on her punky ass. ;)
Okay, better move along before I start spoilering the place up… mancake anyone? Don’t mind if I do. Big Ben… yes, you heard me whores Big Ben is sex on wheels. Since my BBF list is so beyond too long… I am putting Ben on my alternate list. So, just as soon as one of the others disappoints me Ben is up to bat baby! Seriously though, you will totally love him and when he becomes the hero- again- you will understand why. Again, moving along before I spoil… it’s just too tempting!
This book is on my MUST read it list for anyone who is in the mood for a lil smexy a total 4.5 stars from this book whore!
Review by Mommy’s a Book (W)hore.
Book provided by author for honest review.
(No spoilers!)
I have to start off with WOW. I love that this book wasn’t a cookie cutter of what so many other authors are doing these days. Yes, there was romance, sex, rockstars, drama, and all sorts of other things you see in the New Adult/contemporary romance genres, but this book stands apart in that the lives of the characters aren’t picture perfect. We don’t meet millionaire Rock Gods, okay, well we do, but they aren’t really part of the story… just some yummy icing on top of the cake. There are REAL people with REAL lives and REAL jobs in this book, I mean it wouldn’t be worth reading if it weren’t a little out there as far as reality goes (who wants to read about real life anyway) Danielle found the balance between REAL people and those fictional characters we all roll our eyes and think “yeah, right” while we read.
Tess, she isn’t famous, she isn’t rich, she is a struggling student that slings coffee for a living. She has had some hard knocks in life and those knocks shaped who she is… real right? She is someone that I would instantly want to be friends with, maybe even stalk a little if she tried to fight it. I have a little bit of a girl crush on her punky ass. ;)
Okay, better move along before I start spoilering the place up… mancake anyone? Don’t mind if I do. Big Ben… yes, you heard me whores Big Ben is sex on wheels. Since my BBF list is so beyond too long… I am putting Ben on my alternate list. So, just as soon as one of the others disappoints me Ben is up to bat baby! Seriously though, you will totally love him and when he becomes the hero- again- you will understand why. Again, moving along before I spoil… it’s just too tempting!
This book is on my MUST read it list for anyone who is in the mood for a lil smexy a total 4.5 stars from this book whore!
Review by Mommy’s a Book (W)hore.
June 18, 2013
Oh where do I start? I absolutely positively LOVED Private Message! It was a brilliant idea. I mean a bar where you literally go in, log-on, and chat with others for a hook-up….Um, count me in! I was all over Chatz and totally feel like the author and I should open Chatz (hint, hint) tehehehehe! I think for a debut novel Danielle Torella did an awesome job. I was sucked into the story line from the synopsis alone. I knew this book was up my alley and boy oh boy Danielle did not disappoint! I was absolutely enthralled with Big_Ben and Punky_Painter – I literally stayed up till 2 am reading this baby on a work night. Yes, you know I liked it, right?
Oh Ben *swoon* or better known as Big_Ben – do I even need to tell you why they call him Big_Ben? Hmm, that’s right let your mind wander ladies! I loved that man =) He oozed sex on a stick and was basically a bit of a man-whore and very well known at Chatz just ask SlipperyWhenWet_69. Ben wasn’t planning on Punky_Painter aka Tess though and something sparked between them and it was total HOTNESS! Whew the scenes in this book will make a girl fan herself.
Tess – I felt for this girl! She went through a horrific incident that left her broken, scared, and scarred. I wanted to read through my ereader and give her a hug! I cannot imagine going through what she went through. I loved the courage she displayed throughout the book and how she entrusted Ben with her secrets. However, when Ben finds out her secret what will he do? You will have to read Private Message to find out.
I cannot wait to read more by Danielle Torella! If Private Message is any indication what her future work entails I am in for a wild ride with a solid storyline and meaningful characters that grip you and pull you deep into their fantasy world. Happy Reading! xoxo
*I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review*
Oh Ben *swoon* or better known as Big_Ben – do I even need to tell you why they call him Big_Ben? Hmm, that’s right let your mind wander ladies! I loved that man =) He oozed sex on a stick and was basically a bit of a man-whore and very well known at Chatz just ask SlipperyWhenWet_69. Ben wasn’t planning on Punky_Painter aka Tess though and something sparked between them and it was total HOTNESS! Whew the scenes in this book will make a girl fan herself.
Tess – I felt for this girl! She went through a horrific incident that left her broken, scared, and scarred. I wanted to read through my ereader and give her a hug! I cannot imagine going through what she went through. I loved the courage she displayed throughout the book and how she entrusted Ben with her secrets. However, when Ben finds out her secret what will he do? You will have to read Private Message to find out.
I cannot wait to read more by Danielle Torella! If Private Message is any indication what her future work entails I am in for a wild ride with a solid storyline and meaningful characters that grip you and pull you deep into their fantasy world. Happy Reading! xoxo
*I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review*
June 4, 2013
Well, I just could not finish this book. It wasn't for me. What particularly threw me off was the hero's total infatuation with himself. I mean, I'm all for knowing the obvious - a hawwwt looking man is most likely going to know he's hawwwt (ie all the women he sleeps with). However, I did not like being in this guys head and repeatedly reading about how hot he knew he was.
Second, I hated the way the author had the heroine described both by the heroine herself and the hero. I mean, no words where used other than how short she was and how she was wearing chucks, skinny jeans and glasses. What's wrong with that? There is a way for a heroine to think of herself as not pretty, but the author ususally builds the aspect that she is or what her positive qualities are around her enough that has the reader knowing that although average, the people around her know differently, thus making the reader "see" her how she really is.
Again, I didn't finish it, so maybe it got better....but this book just wasn't for me. I didn't even like the other girl Erin who was the new friend of the heroine. The concept of a hook up bar where people chat on their phones in the bar and then leave together for sex also was kind of weird and didn't go for me either.
But hey, did you see the cover....DAYUUM, Hotness all the way..."sad face" for the book not following the lead of the cover for me.
Second, I hated the way the author had the heroine described both by the heroine herself and the hero. I mean, no words where used other than how short she was and how she was wearing chucks, skinny jeans and glasses. What's wrong with that? There is a way for a heroine to think of herself as not pretty, but the author ususally builds the aspect that she is or what her positive qualities are around her enough that has the reader knowing that although average, the people around her know differently, thus making the reader "see" her how she really is.
Again, I didn't finish it, so maybe it got better....but this book just wasn't for me. I didn't even like the other girl Erin who was the new friend of the heroine. The concept of a hook up bar where people chat on their phones in the bar and then leave together for sex also was kind of weird and didn't go for me either.
But hey, did you see the cover....DAYUUM, Hotness all the way..."sad face" for the book not following the lead of the cover for me.
May 29, 2013
Saw the cover I knew I had to read it hellooo!! Look at all those damn tats! Tess that girl is funny, "God I hope it's someone remotely attractive after last week's lesson of trees. Like seriously, trees?" Ben I guess isn't the type of guy you say no to so when Tess does it, it's funny, "wow, she said no? No one has ever turned me down." First time for everything buddy-boy. Ben is a cocky thing as well, "I guess I'll just sit pretty 'til you finish your drawing. And I want to thank you for doing me justice in my boys' department." Oh Ben knows how to put a girl in her place, "you don't get it. I want to take you out. I want to show you my place. I want to make love to you, NOT eff you. You are more than just a eff or any one-night stand." Ben he is, I just love him, there's no ifs, ands, or buts about it, "don't hide from me, baby. I want to hear you. I want to know that I am the one pleasing you. The first one." Ben is so protective, "if you EVER say anything like that again to or about my GIRLFRIEND, I will be sure that everyone will know what you did to Dan and what kind of dirty bag you are. Do you understand me, Jackie?"
May 28, 2013
I seriously LOVED this book. Tess and Ben are amazing characters that I fell in love with instantly. I am typically a picky person when it comes to my characters, but they just hit the spot.
Tess is definitely the relatable female character that I have been in desperate need of lately. I love that she expresses herself and doesn't keep her feelings in her inner monologue. For those of you who have read Thoughtless you know what I mean.
Ben is the tall, dark, & sexy male character we all love. Of course automatic plus in my book, but his character is more than just a pretty face and sexy body. He is protective, passionate, caring, and has a slightly troubled past.
Both characters have trust issues and I can't blame them. That for me made them more real and again another plus. My unexpected favorite character was Erin. I wasn't so sure about her personality when she was first introduced, but she quickly became my favorite. This book had the right amount of drama and angst for me, as well as a twist that I wasn't expecting.
Tess is definitely the relatable female character that I have been in desperate need of lately. I love that she expresses herself and doesn't keep her feelings in her inner monologue. For those of you who have read Thoughtless you know what I mean.
Ben is the tall, dark, & sexy male character we all love. Of course automatic plus in my book, but his character is more than just a pretty face and sexy body. He is protective, passionate, caring, and has a slightly troubled past.
Both characters have trust issues and I can't blame them. That for me made them more real and again another plus. My unexpected favorite character was Erin. I wasn't so sure about her personality when she was first introduced, but she quickly became my favorite. This book had the right amount of drama and angst for me, as well as a twist that I wasn't expecting.
May 31, 2013
Stayed up to 2 am finishing Private Message. How do I begin to tell all of you how much I enjoyed this book and keep it spoiler free? ugh...I'll keep it simple if I can. I loved it. With my busy life sometimes I tend to read really fast and that's how I began this book, finally I said, slow the heck down and start over. So happy I did. I immediately got into the story with Tess. Here's this young and talented girl that is hiding behind a hidden pain with walls all around her. She begins to come to life a bit when she meets fun new friend, Erin. Then when Ben Mitchell makes his presence known, this book just exploded for me. I was laughing out loud as I read and really fell in love with how easy the chemistry was between Ben & Tess. Then our author bamboozles us with Bam!! I'm not telling you what it is, but I was freaking out with many emotions and clung on to every word as I finished it. I actually was sad when I was done with it. Amazing job Danielle Torella, I am so proud of you. What a great way to debut into the writing world:) xoxo
June 18, 2013
3.5 stars for me
Tess, after getting all flustered by a nude model at school needs a drink and stops at the first bar she sees. Chatz is this bar where people login with their phone in a chat room and they chat across the bar picking people up. I need to know, do places like this exist? What a unique concept this bar is. Its extremely forward but it added a fun element to this story.
Tess gets a private message from Big Ben who never private messages anyone. She doesn't respond at first. Ben and Tess are both playful and hot with each other. I enjoyed watching this quick love happen. There were plenty of sexy as hell lines from Ben to Tess.
I did feel like the story wrapped up a little too neatly and I would have liked to see the Dave situation handled with a little more care. It felt a bit rushed. I also thought that it could have been edited a bit more. Overall this was a quick fun read with a nice amount of steam and if you just want something hot and quick this is a nice read to get that with.
Tess, after getting all flustered by a nude model at school needs a drink and stops at the first bar she sees. Chatz is this bar where people login with their phone in a chat room and they chat across the bar picking people up. I need to know, do places like this exist? What a unique concept this bar is. Its extremely forward but it added a fun element to this story.
Tess gets a private message from Big Ben who never private messages anyone. She doesn't respond at first. Ben and Tess are both playful and hot with each other. I enjoyed watching this quick love happen. There were plenty of sexy as hell lines from Ben to Tess.
I did feel like the story wrapped up a little too neatly and I would have liked to see the Dave situation handled with a little more care. It felt a bit rushed. I also thought that it could have been edited a bit more. Overall this was a quick fun read with a nice amount of steam and if you just want something hot and quick this is a nice read to get that with.
May 31, 2013
I had the good fortune of being a beta-reader for Danielle for her very first draft and I fell in love with the idea way back then. The concept is original and I actually wish it had been used even more than it was. I would have been keen to see more of Chatz and the characters there. Maybe we could see more in a spin-off? Hint hint?
Tess is extremely likeable because she is every girl. She could easily be your best friend and you instantly warm to her. I did. The lateness, the art, the music. And Ben, ah. He's perfect isn't he? Sex on legs and with a heart of gold. And did I mention he has a motorbike?!
Danielle is already such a talented person and with this debut novel to add to her list I can only imagine great things for her.
Please note, the lack of fifth star is purely down to grammatical errors, etc, in the story. I've marked any author down for not proof-reading any less than a million times lol.
Tess is extremely likeable because she is every girl. She could easily be your best friend and you instantly warm to her. I did. The lateness, the art, the music. And Ben, ah. He's perfect isn't he? Sex on legs and with a heart of gold. And did I mention he has a motorbike?!
Danielle is already such a talented person and with this debut novel to add to her list I can only imagine great things for her.
Please note, the lack of fifth star is purely down to grammatical errors, etc, in the story. I've marked any author down for not proof-reading any less than a million times lol.
January 29, 2014
Omg really!!!! Let's just say I really enjoyed this story, Like a lot not just a little a lot!!! It was hott, sad, moody and right to the point. It was rather enjoyable. I really liked the attitude of the main character Tess, she was outgoing, quite and was just trying to be herself. She expressed her self rather well in fact I wish I have read more stories where the females are strong and can express themselves the way Tess does. Ok let's just say that in my mind Ben is Jaw dropping HOTT!! lol like really HOTT. I loved how he finally opened up about himself to someone and not afraid to go after what he really wants. I really loved that he can show his emotions when needed. He was the all around great guy!!
This story was a 2 person POV and it was really great I got to see what happens in someone else's eyes every few chapters in stead of just Tess and it made the story shine more. :)
***I received this story for free in exchange for an honest review***
This story was a 2 person POV and it was really great I got to see what happens in someone else's eyes every few chapters in stead of just Tess and it made the story shine more. :)
***I received this story for free in exchange for an honest review***
May 29, 2013
I read it in one sitting. Great story about Ben and Tess. Tess is still a virgin due to being attacked and almost raped at a concert. They meet in a bar called chatz (which btw I think is a fab idea for a bar) where you log in and message people socially and hook up with them. Tess doesn't know it's that type of bar but meets her new BFF Erin who explains the bar concept. Ben aka Big_Ben private messages her which he never does and then they end up together. Not sure about the time frames with BFF and making out session with Ben was really fast seen as she was still a virgin and there were a few spelling errors but I loved it. Lots of depth to the characters and Ben's dad and his dads girlfriend twists were really good. Great story and can't wait for more from this author. Highly recommend 5*
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