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Toxic Desire #1
Inflame
Nic
If it isn’t a cardinal rule to never fall for your brother’s fiancée’s best friend, it should be.
This was supposed to be easy. We just needed to plan a memorable Vegas trip for the joint bachelor and bachelorette parties. I mean, really, what could go wrong? Well, basically everything.
From the tight little outfits to the unbridled excitement over the smallest things, I was captivated by Claire Nettles. The problem is, she is a “forever” type of girl, when all I can offer is a “for now.”
Claire
Anything of value in this life takes hard work.
I just never expected planning a wedding with my bestie’s future brother-in-law, Nic Hoffman, would be this challenging. And by challenging, I really mean utterly horrible. He’s the worst. Egotistical. Unapologetic. And ridiculously attractive…
The problem is, I’m taken. And no matter how hard I try to keep our interactions platonic, Nic blurs the lines and inflames a passion in me to strive for something— someone —better.
Can we set aside our differences and join forces for a common goal, or will our toxic desire cause the entire effort to blow up in our faces?
This book is intended for mature audiences and consists of the two-part Toxic Desire duet that should be read in order.
If it isn’t a cardinal rule to never fall for your brother’s fiancée’s best friend, it should be.
This was supposed to be easy. We just needed to plan a memorable Vegas trip for the joint bachelor and bachelorette parties. I mean, really, what could go wrong? Well, basically everything.
From the tight little outfits to the unbridled excitement over the smallest things, I was captivated by Claire Nettles. The problem is, she is a “forever” type of girl, when all I can offer is a “for now.”
Claire
Anything of value in this life takes hard work.
I just never expected planning a wedding with my bestie’s future brother-in-law, Nic Hoffman, would be this challenging. And by challenging, I really mean utterly horrible. He’s the worst. Egotistical. Unapologetic. And ridiculously attractive…
The problem is, I’m taken. And no matter how hard I try to keep our interactions platonic, Nic blurs the lines and inflames a passion in me to strive for something— someone —better.
Can we set aside our differences and join forces for a common goal, or will our toxic desire cause the entire effort to blow up in our faces?
This book is intended for mature audiences and consists of the two-part Toxic Desire duet that should be read in order.
524 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2023
619 people are currently reading
1240 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Dawson
7 books230 followersVictoria is the author of fiery heroines and possessive heroes. She thrives on writing stories that transcend the minds of readers, allowing them to get lost in the journey to love—and all the drama that entails. Prior to delving heart first into the romance writing world, she taught middle and high school students mathematics for ten years.
Victoria Dawson is a unique combination of hopeful realist and hopeless romantic. She is an iced coffee connoisseur, a reality TV enthusiast, and a habitual wearer of stretchy pants. If she is not chasing after her three active children, she is often found scouring social media for her next book boyfriend fix.
Having grown up in an itty bitty town in Pennsylvania, Victoria is a little bit country. She currently resides in Maryland with her family.
Victoria Dawson is a unique combination of hopeful realist and hopeless romantic. She is an iced coffee connoisseur, a reality TV enthusiast, and a habitual wearer of stretchy pants. If she is not chasing after her three active children, she is often found scouring social media for her next book boyfriend fix.
Having grown up in an itty bitty town in Pennsylvania, Victoria is a little bit country. She currently resides in Maryland with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
July 20, 2023
This is my first novel by Victoria Dawson, but I didn’t have any trouble finding my way into the “realm.” While I enjoyed the story, I found the writing to be overly-descriptive with random character quirks/follies added in at the oddest times. In a sense, the reader really gets to know the characters, but it was also extremely long and I found myself skipping paragraphs of information just to get to the point.
While I personally wasn’t a fan of either character, I don’t feel that means Dawson is a poor writer. I just personally didn’t connect with a health-obsessed vegan FMC who does cleanses, still manages to have curves, and can beat the shit out of a grown man. Nic, the typical alpha hole, was more relatable in that sense. I also didn’t love the way/specific scene in which Nic highlighted that Ethan was garbage, but again, that is personal preference and has nothing to do with Dawson’s writing. I do wonder if other readers will have trouble connecting with the characters, as this will affect further book readership.
Overall I want to thank the author for an ARC of Inflame. I will likely go back and read Angie’s story at a later date because she seems more relatable. Plus Graham isn’t an emotionally-stunted twat waffle like his brother. 😉
While I personally wasn’t a fan of either character, I don’t feel that means Dawson is a poor writer. I just personally didn’t connect with a health-obsessed vegan FMC who does cleanses, still manages to have curves, and can beat the shit out of a grown man. Nic, the typical alpha hole, was more relatable in that sense. I also didn’t love the way/specific scene in which Nic highlighted that Ethan was garbage, but again, that is personal preference and has nothing to do with Dawson’s writing. I do wonder if other readers will have trouble connecting with the characters, as this will affect further book readership.
Overall I want to thank the author for an ARC of Inflame. I will likely go back and read Angie’s story at a later date because she seems more relatable. Plus Graham isn’t an emotionally-stunted twat waffle like his brother. 😉
July 20, 2023
5 STARS AND FIRST IN A SERIES??Nic was attempting to get Claire to see the truth about Ethan. Which unfortunately like most girls (including me) until we are ready, we won’t see the truth. However, Claire and Nic’s chemistry? So adorable. Add in two supportive side characters? I want to know more about Graham and Angie!
I received this ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily, all thoughts/opinions above are my own.
I received this ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily, all thoughts/opinions above are my own.
August 4, 2023
This book had me hooked from the first chapter! Claire is a burst of happy energy and Nic is grumpy man candy. I really enjoyed the banter and the journey this book took me on. Watching Claire deal with her personal issues and finally finding her fire towards the end of the book was so nice!
I will say that diets, things about food, and working out are mentioned a lot so that could be potential triggers for some.
With that being said recommend and can't wait for book two!
I will say that diets, things about food, and working out are mentioned a lot so that could be potential triggers for some.
With that being said recommend and can't wait for book two!
January 17, 2025
I enjoyed reading this book. It was the first book I read by Victoria Dawson, but it certainly won't be the last.
This book follows the events of the previous trilogy, Entice, but even though I haven't read it, I was able to understand the whole story and all the characters. Still, I'm going to read the trilogy because I wanted to know more about everyone's past, especially Angie and Graham's story.
The book started a bit slow and it took a while to get into the story, but once you are in you don't want to get out, I absolutely loved Nic and his way of doing things, even if a bit questionable, I still like it and it's what gives the story that "je ne sais quoi" feeling.
Like I said, I love the books and the story of the characters so much that I will definitely read Victoria's other books.
This book follows the events of the previous trilogy, Entice, but even though I haven't read it, I was able to understand the whole story and all the characters. Still, I'm going to read the trilogy because I wanted to know more about everyone's past, especially Angie and Graham's story.
The book started a bit slow and it took a while to get into the story, but once you are in you don't want to get out, I absolutely loved Nic and his way of doing things, even if a bit questionable, I still like it and it's what gives the story that "je ne sais quoi" feeling.
Like I said, I love the books and the story of the characters so much that I will definitely read Victoria's other books.
December 31, 2023
I am not going to waste my time reading this disgusting piece of trash. When Nic arranged to watch Ethan f#%king Claire as payment for a bet ... I was DONE. 🤬🤬🤬
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2023
3.5 Stars!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was fun and entertaining for the entirety of the story. I had a couple of issues with the writing but that is a personal preference issue for me.
In the beginning, it advises you to read Angie and Graham’s story to fully understand the world and character development. I did not read the Entice Trilogy but was able to catch on right away and understand the side characters well. Also, these side characters were amazing! I am so glad they were part of this book as they brought a lot of humor and structure to the story.
Nic and Claire are two very strong characters. They are also two infuriating people that can at times make you want to throw your kindle at the wall (no kindles were hurt in the reading of this story). I appreciated that Claire was a plant based eater as I also am, and it’s the first book I’ve read with a character that was vegan.
Overall this story was a fun, spicy read. I would recommend this book to someone who is looking for a book where they might have a love/hate relationship with the two main characters.
~I received this book as an Arc for an honest review~
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was fun and entertaining for the entirety of the story. I had a couple of issues with the writing but that is a personal preference issue for me.
In the beginning, it advises you to read Angie and Graham’s story to fully understand the world and character development. I did not read the Entice Trilogy but was able to catch on right away and understand the side characters well. Also, these side characters were amazing! I am so glad they were part of this book as they brought a lot of humor and structure to the story.
Nic and Claire are two very strong characters. They are also two infuriating people that can at times make you want to throw your kindle at the wall (no kindles were hurt in the reading of this story). I appreciated that Claire was a plant based eater as I also am, and it’s the first book I’ve read with a character that was vegan.
Overall this story was a fun, spicy read. I would recommend this book to someone who is looking for a book where they might have a love/hate relationship with the two main characters.
~I received this book as an Arc for an honest review~
July 25, 2023
4.5 stars!!
ugh I am so happy to be back into this world! I loved the Entice series, and the overall character/world building is so well written that it just pulls you in. Inflame picks up after the events of the Entice series, but now we are seeing everything from Claire and Nic's povs, but also getting updates on both Graham and Angie!
rated 4.5 because I did find it slow to start and didn't really get sucked into the story until I was a decent way into the book, but once I was hooked I couldn't put it down!
I definitely would recommend reading the Entice series first as the characters are all really introduced there, and some of the events discussed in this book are introduced in the Entice series.
I cannot wait for book 2, Implode, to release so I can dive back into this world and find out all that happens!
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I received this as an ARC and am giving my honest review, all opinions/thoughts are my own :)
ugh I am so happy to be back into this world! I loved the Entice series, and the overall character/world building is so well written that it just pulls you in. Inflame picks up after the events of the Entice series, but now we are seeing everything from Claire and Nic's povs, but also getting updates on both Graham and Angie!
rated 4.5 because I did find it slow to start and didn't really get sucked into the story until I was a decent way into the book, but once I was hooked I couldn't put it down!
I definitely would recommend reading the Entice series first as the characters are all really introduced there, and some of the events discussed in this book are introduced in the Entice series.
I cannot wait for book 2, Implode, to release so I can dive back into this world and find out all that happens!
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.
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I received this as an ARC and am giving my honest review, all opinions/thoughts are my own :)
July 20, 2023
I had the absolute pleasure of reading the ARC and to say I was in love would be an understatement.
I was couldn’t put the book down obsessed - want to read at red lights obsessed. I devoured it in less than 24 hours.
The character development was amazing and I truly felt like I knew all of them. The chemistry between Nic and a Claire was insane right out of the gate and when they finally acted on it, it was incredible. 🥵
Nic is the typical grumpy alpha-male that thinks he can’t do more than casual and Claire is full of sunshine.
I absolutely HATED Claire’s ex, Ethan. He was absolutely awful - and even though Nic’s ways of showing Claire just how awful Ethan was, was super questionable - it did need to be done.
I had a feeling this book would end on a bit of a cliffhanger and I’m so sad. I can’t wait to read the next book!!
I was couldn’t put the book down obsessed - want to read at red lights obsessed. I devoured it in less than 24 hours.
The character development was amazing and I truly felt like I knew all of them. The chemistry between Nic and a Claire was insane right out of the gate and when they finally acted on it, it was incredible. 🥵
Nic is the typical grumpy alpha-male that thinks he can’t do more than casual and Claire is full of sunshine.
I absolutely HATED Claire’s ex, Ethan. He was absolutely awful - and even though Nic’s ways of showing Claire just how awful Ethan was, was super questionable - it did need to be done.
I had a feeling this book would end on a bit of a cliffhanger and I’m so sad. I can’t wait to read the next book!!
July 31, 2023
⚠️TW: emotional and physical abuse⚠️
i’m not going to lie, the first half of this book was difficult for me to read.. not because it was badly written or anything like that, but because of the abuse ethan showed to claire. as someone who has been in an emotionally and physically abusive relationship, reading about these interactions was pretty hard for me. on one hand, it brought me back to that time in my life, and on the other hand it really opened my eyes seeing it from an outside perspective. how someone who is being treated so badly can stand being with that person for so long is mind boggling, but at one point in my life, i understood.
BUT, the whole book is not purely about ethan and claire. luckily she comes to her senses and breaks up with ethan. then, she finds herself with nic hoffman. another toxic (but not abusive), yet extremely irresistible guy. who also happens to be her best friends soon to be brother-in-law.
despite the first half of this book being difficult for me to digest, i literally GOBBLED this book up. holy cow. even without reading the entice series (which takes place before the toxic desire series) it was pretty easy to fit myself into their world without any confusion. i felt so connected with this book and claire and i think that’s why i enjoyed it so much. it was so nice to see her find her self worth throughout this story.
read if you like:
- grumpy x sunshine
- forced proximity
- SPICE
this was my first victoria dawson book and let me just say, i will be going and reading all of her other books now. and so should you. i can not wait for implode because i neeeed to know what happens between nic and claire next!!
i’m not going to lie, the first half of this book was difficult for me to read.. not because it was badly written or anything like that, but because of the abuse ethan showed to claire. as someone who has been in an emotionally and physically abusive relationship, reading about these interactions was pretty hard for me. on one hand, it brought me back to that time in my life, and on the other hand it really opened my eyes seeing it from an outside perspective. how someone who is being treated so badly can stand being with that person for so long is mind boggling, but at one point in my life, i understood.
BUT, the whole book is not purely about ethan and claire. luckily she comes to her senses and breaks up with ethan. then, she finds herself with nic hoffman. another toxic (but not abusive), yet extremely irresistible guy. who also happens to be her best friends soon to be brother-in-law.
despite the first half of this book being difficult for me to digest, i literally GOBBLED this book up. holy cow. even without reading the entice series (which takes place before the toxic desire series) it was pretty easy to fit myself into their world without any confusion. i felt so connected with this book and claire and i think that’s why i enjoyed it so much. it was so nice to see her find her self worth throughout this story.
read if you like:
- grumpy x sunshine
- forced proximity
- SPICE
this was my first victoria dawson book and let me just say, i will be going and reading all of her other books now. and so should you. i can not wait for implode because i neeeed to know what happens between nic and claire next!!
July 24, 2023
Her best friend is getting married to the love of her life and Claire is on the edges of a relationship with a narcissist she doesn’t even realize she shouldn’t be in. A bachelorette/bachelor trip to Vegas has her and the groom to be’s brother stirring in a mutual attraction that neither of them thinks they want. Nic Hoffman is her former boss at the escort service she met her current boyfriend thru. They have nothing in common yet are drawn to each other. Will the flame between them ignite into something more? Or is Claire destined to be alone?
I received this book as an ARC and loved every second of it. I had previously read Victoria’s Entice series and am so glad Claire’s story needed to be told. I wanted to punch Ethan and shake Nic. I cannot wait for the next book! Thank you, Victoria, for allowing me the honor of reading this ARC!
I received this book as an ARC and loved every second of it. I had previously read Victoria’s Entice series and am so glad Claire’s story needed to be told. I wanted to punch Ethan and shake Nic. I cannot wait for the next book! Thank you, Victoria, for allowing me the honor of reading this ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2023
I absolutely love this book!
Claire is a very relatable character and shows how messy things can be in everyday life.
Nic.. he is a handsome dark man that I was hooked on from the beginning.
The grumpy sunshine melts my heart every time. But.. loved the slowish burn and the forced proximity coupled with the battle of wills.
This author is a new author for me but I have to say I want to read everything she has!
You feel the tension and the want between the characters. Feeling the emotions between them makes this all the more amazing.
Victoria fantastic job ma’am! I am eagerly awaiting the next book!
Claire is a very relatable character and shows how messy things can be in everyday life.
Nic.. he is a handsome dark man that I was hooked on from the beginning.
The grumpy sunshine melts my heart every time. But.. loved the slowish burn and the forced proximity coupled with the battle of wills.
This author is a new author for me but I have to say I want to read everything she has!
You feel the tension and the want between the characters. Feeling the emotions between them makes this all the more amazing.
Victoria fantastic job ma’am! I am eagerly awaiting the next book!
July 25, 2023
I read this as an ARC book after reading the Entice series, which I loved. I was happy that Claire got her own story, the tie ins of characters from the first series, and overall, I would give this a solid 3.75 stars. I felt like the first half was essentially just Nic obsessing over how attractive Claire is and how his past has made him unable to commit. The last few chapters of the book picked up and were really good though, and left me antsy to read the next book in the series and complete Claire’s story.
July 26, 2023
First time reading a book by the author, and I must say, as good as it was, I’m very annoyed that I didn’t realize it is the first book in a series. Like what?? HOW am I expected to wait for the next one to come out??? I was so wrapped up in the story and didn’t want it to end. Can’t wait for the next one(s) to come out!
August 30, 2023
I for one had been waiting for Nic and Clair’s story and this book had everything even the cliff hanger that I knew she would leave me with. I can’t wait for the next book. It is a definite must read but you definitely should read the entice series first.
August 14, 2023
I loved the Entise series with Angie and Gram. They where such a cute couple with an insane story and powerful love. I was excited to see Claire and Nic featured in this one. I loved Claire's carefree attitude and her wild side that lead to some insane moments with Angie. Unfortunately 😫 my girl was a shell of her former self because of her annoying [ex]boyfriend Ethan. It was interesting to see her inner struggles with him and her childhood.
Her and Nics chemistry can be seen from a mile away. Nic although he goes out of his way to push her buttons, he knows that she's a spitball of fire and loves that about her. He cares for her and about her in the cutest ways. She tends to come back to herself when they are around which made me so happy.
Nic is guarded though, which makes things frustrating AF! 😑
I'm excited for book 2 to see how they bounce back and for them to have some real conversations and healing after what happened in book 1.
Her and Nics chemistry can be seen from a mile away. Nic although he goes out of his way to push her buttons, he knows that she's a spitball of fire and loves that about her. He cares for her and about her in the cutest ways. She tends to come back to herself when they are around which made me so happy.
Nic is guarded though, which makes things frustrating AF! 😑
I'm excited for book 2 to see how they bounce back and for them to have some real conversations and healing after what happened in book 1.
July 22, 2023
I have been waiting patiently for this book. Grumpy/sunshine is one of my favorite tropes and Inflame did not disappoint. Nic is my favorite and I loved what we saw of him in the Entice series. I was happy to see the character development of Claire in this book and I’m hoping to see more of it on Nic in the next book. I feel like Inflame has been a set up for what comes next and now I can’t wait to see how things unfold.
This was my first ARC read and now I’m hooked.
This was my first ARC read and now I’m hooked.
July 20, 2023
ARC reader
Victoria didn’t disappoint with this book! I was excited to see Claires side of the story and to see Nic’s character develop more! They have major chemistry and I kept waiting for them to act on it, and when they did it did not disappoint!
I’m kind of upset with Nic in the end as I was hoping Claire would be able to pull him out of his self doubt but of course he sabotaged it.
Now I’m impatiently waiting for the second book to come out to see if Nic and fix this mess he had made.
Another note —- I think we can all agree that we hate Ethan and his character. I am glad he finally got what he deserved from Claire in the end!
Victoria didn’t disappoint with this book! I was excited to see Claires side of the story and to see Nic’s character develop more! They have major chemistry and I kept waiting for them to act on it, and when they did it did not disappoint!
I’m kind of upset with Nic in the end as I was hoping Claire would be able to pull him out of his self doubt but of course he sabotaged it.
Now I’m impatiently waiting for the second book to come out to see if Nic and fix this mess he had made.
Another note —- I think we can all agree that we hate Ethan and his character. I am glad he finally got what he deserved from Claire in the end!
August 4, 2023
Thank you so much Victoria for allowing me to arc read this book! (Even though you kinda ripped out my heart at the end but it’s fine) Hooked from page one! The banter was on point. The tension though👀 yeah that was HOT. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book! Also, if anyone is sensitive to a lot of talk about fitness and nutrition just know there is a lot of that in this book as well as an abusive ex. Head that warning and go read when it’s out!
July 28, 2023
Oh my gosh! I could not put this down! I finished it in less than 48 hours 🤣 I was cracking up over the witty banter between Claire and Nic and the sexual tension was killings me! When the spice hit, it hit hard 🥵 There’s just enough “law breaking” and mystery around the men to keep things intriguing, and I related to Claire in more ways than I care to admit. The ending is HORRIBLE though! And I mean that on the best way possible🤣 I’m dying to know what happens next and will definitely explode from the wait until book two comes out! Hurry hurry hurry and get your hands on this book!
August 2, 2023
*I might change this after completely reading the book.*
Sick sick utter sick. Totally sick tbrh. It started off so well, until it felt more like a tour book and I was just getting done with it for the heck of it. I had to finish it somehow and knew it was kind of bearable. But there is a limit to everything and using a girl to such limits that Nic and Ethan did just made this book so bad for me that I couldn't resist stopping midway to write this down. You DON'T use your girl to teach her a lesson she doesn't even know she is doing wrong. Sure, Claire has an idea that she and Ethan don't work well together, Nic also can see this, THEN WHY TF WOULD NIC DROP SO LOW TO A LEVEL THAT I JUST HATE EVEN HIS GODDAMN NAME!!!! He is just another Ethan, an abusive one. A mental torture, abuser.
Ethan loses a game and challenges Nic to play another in their room. The rules for if Nic loses is that Ethan gets Nic's car, and if Nic wins? He gets to see Ethan have s*x with Claire. And Ethan, along with Nic, are such disgusting pigs that they even go ahead with it. Claire, who is already a broke girl, going through SO MUCH at once, she tries to mend relations with Ethan not knowing that Ethan is actually the lying one in the relationship. She dresses up in provocative clothes FOR ETHAN, and while she is in the act, (She doesn't even know that Nic is hiding in the corner, watching her give head to Ethan), she catches Ethan looking back. THAT'S when she sees Nic and gets to know about their arrangement.
Her clouded brain makes her do it (snap tf out and walk away). Anyways, she agrees and Ethan gets on top of her and they literally do the deed WHILE NIC WATCHES! Is Nic blind? Sure buddy, you want to teach her a lesson for how Ethan is not meant for her, but there are ways, goddamn. There are so many ways to point it out to a person, not make them feel like a useless se* doll used by males for whenever they want and to be discarded for whenever they like. Ethan is sick, bro, it is understood, but COULDN'T NIC JUST STOP IT, GET UP AND LEAVE WHEN HE COULD SEE CLAIRE LOSING THE LAST BIT OF SHREDS OF HERSELF? COULDN'T HE SEE THAT INSTEAD OF HE TEACHING HER A LESSON, HE IS LITERALLY STRIPPING HER OFF HER DIGNITY, TURNING HER INTO A SHELL OF HER OWN? THIS BASTA*D STAYS THERE AND WATCHES HER, IMAGINING HOW SHE WOULD FEEL INSIDE HIM! I MEAN, GODDDDD!!!! SHE IS LITERALLY BEING USED THERE FOR BOTH MEN WHILE THEY ARE GLADLY LETTING IT HAPPEN.
Only after Ethan has ejaculated and Claire loudly says that its hurting her is when Nic bloody genius gets up to stop but Claire pushes Ethan off before, blood coming out of her due to the physical pain. And instead of Nic rushing to apologize? He fuckin* leaves the apartment and goes to the bar to drink. CLAIRE DESERVES SO SO SO MUCH BETTER. EVEN BETTER THAN NIC AND ETHAN, BECAUSE NIC HOFFMAN? He is just another Ethan Maxwell. Both sick. Both disgusting. Both revolting males. Pathetic.
Sick sick utter sick. Totally sick tbrh. It started off so well, until it felt more like a tour book and I was just getting done with it for the heck of it. I had to finish it somehow and knew it was kind of bearable. But there is a limit to everything and using a girl to such limits that Nic and Ethan did just made this book so bad for me that I couldn't resist stopping midway to write this down. You DON'T use your girl to teach her a lesson she doesn't even know she is doing wrong. Sure, Claire has an idea that she and Ethan don't work well together, Nic also can see this, THEN WHY TF WOULD NIC DROP SO LOW TO A LEVEL THAT I JUST HATE EVEN HIS GODDAMN NAME!!!! He is just another Ethan, an abusive one. A mental torture, abuser.
Ethan loses a game and challenges Nic to play another in their room. The rules for if Nic loses is that Ethan gets Nic's car, and if Nic wins? He gets to see Ethan have s*x with Claire. And Ethan, along with Nic, are such disgusting pigs that they even go ahead with it. Claire, who is already a broke girl, going through SO MUCH at once, she tries to mend relations with Ethan not knowing that Ethan is actually the lying one in the relationship. She dresses up in provocative clothes FOR ETHAN, and while she is in the act, (She doesn't even know that Nic is hiding in the corner, watching her give head to Ethan), she catches Ethan looking back. THAT'S when she sees Nic and gets to know about their arrangement.
Her clouded brain makes her do it (snap tf out and walk away). Anyways, she agrees and Ethan gets on top of her and they literally do the deed WHILE NIC WATCHES! Is Nic blind? Sure buddy, you want to teach her a lesson for how Ethan is not meant for her, but there are ways, goddamn. There are so many ways to point it out to a person, not make them feel like a useless se* doll used by males for whenever they want and to be discarded for whenever they like. Ethan is sick, bro, it is understood, but COULDN'T NIC JUST STOP IT, GET UP AND LEAVE WHEN HE COULD SEE CLAIRE LOSING THE LAST BIT OF SHREDS OF HERSELF? COULDN'T HE SEE THAT INSTEAD OF HE TEACHING HER A LESSON, HE IS LITERALLY STRIPPING HER OFF HER DIGNITY, TURNING HER INTO A SHELL OF HER OWN? THIS BASTA*D STAYS THERE AND WATCHES HER, IMAGINING HOW SHE WOULD FEEL INSIDE HIM! I MEAN, GODDDDD!!!! SHE IS LITERALLY BEING USED THERE FOR BOTH MEN WHILE THEY ARE GLADLY LETTING IT HAPPEN.
Only after Ethan has ejaculated and Claire loudly says that its hurting her is when Nic bloody genius gets up to stop but Claire pushes Ethan off before, blood coming out of her due to the physical pain. And instead of Nic rushing to apologize? He fuckin* leaves the apartment and goes to the bar to drink. CLAIRE DESERVES SO SO SO MUCH BETTER. EVEN BETTER THAN NIC AND ETHAN, BECAUSE NIC HOFFMAN? He is just another Ethan Maxwell. Both sick. Both disgusting. Both revolting males. Pathetic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2023
2.5/5⭐️
1.5/5🌶
*ARC Review*
I'm honored to have received an ARC from the author. This is my first book by this author, and while I was very excited to read it based on the premise, this one fell a little flat for me.
This is spin off series, however I was quite confused for the first 40% having not read the original series I felt like I was missing a ton of information especially in relation to our main characters and their previous interactions. The story starts with our mmc and fmc planning a bachelor/bachelorette party together. And somehow, by the second chapter, our mmc was fully obsessed with the fmc without any buildup or reason. I just couldn't feel any sort of connection between them.
The writing was incredibly wordy and felt more like telling instead of showing. I just needed more to understand the characters and their feelings/reasonings better.
I found the mmc to be quite lacking. The author kept trying to build him into this man whore bad boy type who has dark interests, but never fulfills that hype. Even the sex scenes were lackluster especially after building up his dark tastes that the fmc wouldn't be able to handle but ended up as generic sex scenes.
The fmc tried very hard to fulfill the "not your typical girl" trope, but it just came off immature and led to multiple personality changes every few chapters.
Once I made it to that 70% mark, I felt like the book finally found its footing and so did the writing style. The author's intended storyline shined through at this point, finally becoming what it tried to be in the beginning. And I was able to enjoy finishing the book.
There is both physical and emotional abuse that happens to the fmc in the book, which may be a little difficult to read, so please check the trigger warnings first. There is one scene that takes place roughly halfway into the book that disgusted me and made it difficult to continue wanting to finish the story. It did nothing to further the story or the supposed growing connection of the mcs. It felt incredibly out of character for both and was overall not needed.
This story does end on a cliffhanger. I do plan to read the second book just to see how the story plays out. But I'm hoping the next one will be more consistent from beginning to end and stick to the intended storyline. I am excited to see how the author's writing progresses in the next one as I felt like this embodied a debut novel writing level compared to a 4th book level. Overall, I wished I had enjoyed this more than I did.
1.5/5🌶
*ARC Review*
I'm honored to have received an ARC from the author. This is my first book by this author, and while I was very excited to read it based on the premise, this one fell a little flat for me.
This is spin off series, however I was quite confused for the first 40% having not read the original series I felt like I was missing a ton of information especially in relation to our main characters and their previous interactions. The story starts with our mmc and fmc planning a bachelor/bachelorette party together. And somehow, by the second chapter, our mmc was fully obsessed with the fmc without any buildup or reason. I just couldn't feel any sort of connection between them.
The writing was incredibly wordy and felt more like telling instead of showing. I just needed more to understand the characters and their feelings/reasonings better.
I found the mmc to be quite lacking. The author kept trying to build him into this man whore bad boy type who has dark interests, but never fulfills that hype. Even the sex scenes were lackluster especially after building up his dark tastes that the fmc wouldn't be able to handle but ended up as generic sex scenes.
The fmc tried very hard to fulfill the "not your typical girl" trope, but it just came off immature and led to multiple personality changes every few chapters.
Once I made it to that 70% mark, I felt like the book finally found its footing and so did the writing style. The author's intended storyline shined through at this point, finally becoming what it tried to be in the beginning. And I was able to enjoy finishing the book.
There is both physical and emotional abuse that happens to the fmc in the book, which may be a little difficult to read, so please check the trigger warnings first. There is one scene that takes place roughly halfway into the book that disgusted me and made it difficult to continue wanting to finish the story. It did nothing to further the story or the supposed growing connection of the mcs. It felt incredibly out of character for both and was overall not needed.
This story does end on a cliffhanger. I do plan to read the second book just to see how the story plays out. But I'm hoping the next one will be more consistent from beginning to end and stick to the intended storyline. I am excited to see how the author's writing progresses in the next one as I felt like this embodied a debut novel writing level compared to a 4th book level. Overall, I wished I had enjoyed this more than I did.
July 24, 2023
Rating: ★★★★☆
"Inflame" by Victoria Dawson, the first book in the Toxic Desire series, is a captivating and intoxicating romance that ignites a blaze of emotions from start to finish. Published by Paper Heart Publishing on April 15, 2023, this book delivers a thrilling slow-burn love story filled with passion and undeniable chemistry.
As an ARC reader for this book, I was fortunate to be accepted, and I personally rate "Inflame" 4/5 stars for its engrossing plot and well-crafted characters. From the very beginning, the narrative draws readers into the seemingly simple task of planning a Vegas trip for a joint bachelor and bachelorette party. However, as the story unfolds, complications arise when Nic and Claire find themselves unexpectedly entangled in a tumultuous whirlwind of emotions.
Victoria Dawson's writing skillfully weaves the inner turmoil and burgeoning desire between Nic and Claire, creating a slow-burn romance that builds anticipation and depth in their connection. Their emotional journey is beautifully portrayed, leaving readers captivated by the intensity of their feelings for each other.
The characters are well-developed and relatable, each possessing their unique charm and complexity. Nic's ego and unapologetic nature contrast intriguingly with Claire's driven and taken persona, setting the stage for a thrilling emotional dynamic.
Throughout the story, "Inflame" keeps readers on their toes, wondering if Nic and Claire can set aside their differences and find common ground. As the plot unfolds, the toxic desire between them could either lead to a passionate partnership or cause catastrophic consequences.
The publisher, Paper Heart Publishing, deserves praise for introducing a promising start to the Toxic Desire series. With its enthralling romance and well-crafted characters, "Inflame" leaves readers eager to explore the next installment in this intoxicating series.
In conclusion, "Inflame" by Victoria Dawson delivers a gripping romance filled with passion, emotion, and undeniable chemistry. The slow-burn love story, skillful writing, and captivating character arcs make this book a must-read for mature audiences. I am eagerly looking forward to adding "Inflame" to my paperback collection and embarking on the next adventure in this enthralling series.
"Inflame" by Victoria Dawson, the first book in the Toxic Desire series, is a captivating and intoxicating romance that ignites a blaze of emotions from start to finish. Published by Paper Heart Publishing on April 15, 2023, this book delivers a thrilling slow-burn love story filled with passion and undeniable chemistry.
As an ARC reader for this book, I was fortunate to be accepted, and I personally rate "Inflame" 4/5 stars for its engrossing plot and well-crafted characters. From the very beginning, the narrative draws readers into the seemingly simple task of planning a Vegas trip for a joint bachelor and bachelorette party. However, as the story unfolds, complications arise when Nic and Claire find themselves unexpectedly entangled in a tumultuous whirlwind of emotions.
Victoria Dawson's writing skillfully weaves the inner turmoil and burgeoning desire between Nic and Claire, creating a slow-burn romance that builds anticipation and depth in their connection. Their emotional journey is beautifully portrayed, leaving readers captivated by the intensity of their feelings for each other.
The characters are well-developed and relatable, each possessing their unique charm and complexity. Nic's ego and unapologetic nature contrast intriguingly with Claire's driven and taken persona, setting the stage for a thrilling emotional dynamic.
Throughout the story, "Inflame" keeps readers on their toes, wondering if Nic and Claire can set aside their differences and find common ground. As the plot unfolds, the toxic desire between them could either lead to a passionate partnership or cause catastrophic consequences.
The publisher, Paper Heart Publishing, deserves praise for introducing a promising start to the Toxic Desire series. With its enthralling romance and well-crafted characters, "Inflame" leaves readers eager to explore the next installment in this intoxicating series.
In conclusion, "Inflame" by Victoria Dawson delivers a gripping romance filled with passion, emotion, and undeniable chemistry. The slow-burn love story, skillful writing, and captivating character arcs make this book a must-read for mature audiences. I am eagerly looking forward to adding "Inflame" to my paperback collection and embarking on the next adventure in this enthralling series.
August 20, 2023
Addicting Read!
Inflame is a suspenseful romance that's full of twists and turns. As a reader you'll find yourself in emotional battles with the MMC Nic- you'll love and desire him then be overcome with repulsion and distaste only to flip the page and crave more of him. It's easy to feel the psychological impact he has on the MFC, Claire.
Having previously read the Entice series I was so eager to dive into Inflame the day it was released. I'm a HUGE fan of the writing and the story of Entice, and it was an easy 5⭐ rating for me. I found myself struggling to have the same captivating feelings with Nic and Claire's story, much like in the way a movie sequel never lives up to the hype of the first movie. My high level of anticipation for another read by Victoria Dawson may have played a role in setting the book up to not meet specific expectations, yet it is still a 3.75 ⭐ for me. Overall, Inflame is a page turner with emotional, suspenseful twists and turns and I already have Implode pre-ordered!
Pros:
•The foreshadowing is amazing! I was constantly anticipating what would happen next, without predicting the storyline.
•The characters are flawed humans and this story shows how good-people can make very poor choices, and those bad decisions come with consequences.
•Dawson pulls all the emotions from me!
•Excellent world building!
Cons:
•While I love all the witty banter amongst the characters, I felt some of the support dialogue was a little calculated and didn't always feel very organic.
•The very strong, individual personalities of Graham and Nic, Angie and Claire, as we previously knew them, kind of blended together in this book and didn't seem as unique to their own characters.
• {spoiler} I struggled with the drastic change of Ethan's personality from Entice to Inflame. While we were thoroughly "told" how it happened, it was harder to get a strong understanding of the progression of Claire's abuse in the same way we were "shown" Angie's progression of addiction in Spark of Obsession. I think part of this is because as readers, we didn't have the chance to fall in love Ethan as we have with other main characters.
Inflame is a suspenseful romance that's full of twists and turns. As a reader you'll find yourself in emotional battles with the MMC Nic- you'll love and desire him then be overcome with repulsion and distaste only to flip the page and crave more of him. It's easy to feel the psychological impact he has on the MFC, Claire.
Having previously read the Entice series I was so eager to dive into Inflame the day it was released. I'm a HUGE fan of the writing and the story of Entice, and it was an easy 5⭐ rating for me. I found myself struggling to have the same captivating feelings with Nic and Claire's story, much like in the way a movie sequel never lives up to the hype of the first movie. My high level of anticipation for another read by Victoria Dawson may have played a role in setting the book up to not meet specific expectations, yet it is still a 3.75 ⭐ for me. Overall, Inflame is a page turner with emotional, suspenseful twists and turns and I already have Implode pre-ordered!
Pros:
•The foreshadowing is amazing! I was constantly anticipating what would happen next, without predicting the storyline.
•The characters are flawed humans and this story shows how good-people can make very poor choices, and those bad decisions come with consequences.
•Dawson pulls all the emotions from me!
•Excellent world building!
Cons:
•While I love all the witty banter amongst the characters, I felt some of the support dialogue was a little calculated and didn't always feel very organic.
•The very strong, individual personalities of Graham and Nic, Angie and Claire, as we previously knew them, kind of blended together in this book and didn't seem as unique to their own characters.
• {spoiler} I struggled with the drastic change of Ethan's personality from Entice to Inflame. While we were thoroughly "told" how it happened, it was harder to get a strong understanding of the progression of Claire's abuse in the same way we were "shown" Angie's progression of addiction in Spark of Obsession. I think part of this is because as readers, we didn't have the chance to fall in love Ethan as we have with other main characters.
August 15, 2023
ARC review.
I first read her “Entice” series when the author commented on a book group post I made looking for books that will bring me pain - and she DELIVERED. Definitely recommend reading that series before this one.
Blurb;
Nic
If it isn’t a cardinal rule to never fall for your brother’s fiancée’s best friend, it should be.
This was supposed to be easy. We just needed to plan a memorable Vegas trip for the joint bachelor and bachelorette parties. I mean, really, what could go wrong? Well, basically everything.
From the tight little outfits to the unbridled excitement over the smallest things, I was captivated by Claire Nettles. The problem is, she is a “forever” type of girl, when all I can offer is a “for now.”
Claire
Anything of value in this life takes hard work.
I just never expected planning a wedding with my bestie’s future brother-in-law, Nic Hoffman, would be this challenging. And by challenging, I really mean utterly horrible. He’s the worst. Egotistical. Unapologetic. And ridiculously attractive…
The problem is, I’m taken. And no matter how hard I try to keep our interactions platonic, Nic blurs the lines and inflames a passion in me to strive for something—someone—better.
Can we set aside our differences and join forces for a common goal, or will our toxic desire cause the entire effort to blow up in our faces?
This book was SO good. After getting to know the main characters in her previous series, I loved getting to live through them in their own book. It gives you all the grump/sunshine, enemies to lovers vibes that I was craving! They have a push and pull dynamic and this story was definitely not your run of the mill predicable love story. It has so many twists and turns that keep you turning pages til the end. I stayed up til 1am nights in a row bit being able to put it down. It hurt so good. The book does end on a cliff hanger and I am DYING for book two. Easily one of my new favorite authors, her writing style is unique and the storylines addicting. 5/5 stars!!
I first read her “Entice” series when the author commented on a book group post I made looking for books that will bring me pain - and she DELIVERED. Definitely recommend reading that series before this one.
Blurb;
Nic
If it isn’t a cardinal rule to never fall for your brother’s fiancée’s best friend, it should be.
This was supposed to be easy. We just needed to plan a memorable Vegas trip for the joint bachelor and bachelorette parties. I mean, really, what could go wrong? Well, basically everything.
From the tight little outfits to the unbridled excitement over the smallest things, I was captivated by Claire Nettles. The problem is, she is a “forever” type of girl, when all I can offer is a “for now.”
Claire
Anything of value in this life takes hard work.
I just never expected planning a wedding with my bestie’s future brother-in-law, Nic Hoffman, would be this challenging. And by challenging, I really mean utterly horrible. He’s the worst. Egotistical. Unapologetic. And ridiculously attractive…
The problem is, I’m taken. And no matter how hard I try to keep our interactions platonic, Nic blurs the lines and inflames a passion in me to strive for something—someone—better.
Can we set aside our differences and join forces for a common goal, or will our toxic desire cause the entire effort to blow up in our faces?
This book was SO good. After getting to know the main characters in her previous series, I loved getting to live through them in their own book. It gives you all the grump/sunshine, enemies to lovers vibes that I was craving! They have a push and pull dynamic and this story was definitely not your run of the mill predicable love story. It has so many twists and turns that keep you turning pages til the end. I stayed up til 1am nights in a row bit being able to put it down. It hurt so good. The book does end on a cliff hanger and I am DYING for book two. Easily one of my new favorite authors, her writing style is unique and the storylines addicting. 5/5 stars!!
July 31, 2023
I really enjoyed Inflame. I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Inflame is the first book I’ve read by Victoria Dawson. The Entice series comes first. Although I got through the book easily without having read the previous series, I do think it is best to start with Entice because it probably explains some of the background of the characters in Inflame. That being said, I was not lost reading Inflame having not yet read Entice.
Inflame follows the story of Nic and Claire. Claire’s best friend is marrying Nic’s brother and they are paired together to throw a Vegas joint bachelor & bachelorette party. The problem is, Nic gets on Claire’s last nerve. Until the trip. Tension builds, Nic and Claire become close in more ways than one, and the plot heats up. Claire is torn between staying with her current boyfriend, Ethan, or giving into her attraction to Nic. Meanwhile Nic is still hurting from a previous relationship and desperately tries to keep from getting attached to Claire.
Victoria Dawson did an excellent job with character building. One of my gripes about romance novels is when the characters are attracted sexually to each other but then fall in love without any real examples of why the other person is perfect for them besides really steamy sex. Inflame doesn’t have that problem. Even though Claire is my opposite, I found her character very likable. Nic I went back and forth on, but overall I can see why Claire falls for him.
The first few pages weren’t my favorite in terms of style and editing, but within two chapters I was hooked and couldn’t put the book down. This book does end on a cliffhanger so be prepared to read the following book when it’s released!
Inflame follows the story of Nic and Claire. Claire’s best friend is marrying Nic’s brother and they are paired together to throw a Vegas joint bachelor & bachelorette party. The problem is, Nic gets on Claire’s last nerve. Until the trip. Tension builds, Nic and Claire become close in more ways than one, and the plot heats up. Claire is torn between staying with her current boyfriend, Ethan, or giving into her attraction to Nic. Meanwhile Nic is still hurting from a previous relationship and desperately tries to keep from getting attached to Claire.
Victoria Dawson did an excellent job with character building. One of my gripes about romance novels is when the characters are attracted sexually to each other but then fall in love without any real examples of why the other person is perfect for them besides really steamy sex. Inflame doesn’t have that problem. Even though Claire is my opposite, I found her character very likable. Nic I went back and forth on, but overall I can see why Claire falls for him.
The first few pages weren’t my favorite in terms of style and editing, but within two chapters I was hooked and couldn’t put the book down. This book does end on a cliffhanger so be prepared to read the following book when it’s released!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2023
Inflame (Toxic Desire #1) by Victoria Dawson publishing August 15th 2023
Picking up right up following the end of the Entice Series we now follow the story of Claire and Nic, the best friend and the brother of our previous main protagonists. It is recommended that you read Entice first to understand some of the wider context behind some of the characters actions.
I have been on Victoria’s ARC team since her debut and have watched her development as an author. This books deals with some series situations / circumstances so please (PLEASE 🙏) check the TW before you start.
There were moments in this book that made me giggle - I love the friendship and support that Angie and Claire have with / for one another. They are each others ride or die regardless of the men in their lives.
And then there were a lot of the time I wanted to launch my kindle across the room.
I found myself in a love / hate relationship with the characters - mainly Nic. I so wanted to love him especially because of his sweet moments but his self sabotage particularly at the lead up to the cliffhanger made me want to throttle him!
My heart broke for Claire and the situation that she’s in so I understand why her behaviour and decisions are what they are but at times I did find her infuriating.
Now please don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed reading this book. It gave me the grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, overprotective alpha male vibes with the spice you’d expect from a Victoria Dawson book while tackling some heavy topics woven into the story.
I now need the final instalment Implode publishing September 21st 2023 to see how it all ends and maybe Nic can redeem himself in my eyes (and more importantly Claire’s!!)
Picking up right up following the end of the Entice Series we now follow the story of Claire and Nic, the best friend and the brother of our previous main protagonists. It is recommended that you read Entice first to understand some of the wider context behind some of the characters actions.
I have been on Victoria’s ARC team since her debut and have watched her development as an author. This books deals with some series situations / circumstances so please (PLEASE 🙏) check the TW before you start.
There were moments in this book that made me giggle - I love the friendship and support that Angie and Claire have with / for one another. They are each others ride or die regardless of the men in their lives.
And then there were a lot of the time I wanted to launch my kindle across the room.
I found myself in a love / hate relationship with the characters - mainly Nic. I so wanted to love him especially because of his sweet moments but his self sabotage particularly at the lead up to the cliffhanger made me want to throttle him!
My heart broke for Claire and the situation that she’s in so I understand why her behaviour and decisions are what they are but at times I did find her infuriating.
Now please don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed reading this book. It gave me the grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, overprotective alpha male vibes with the spice you’d expect from a Victoria Dawson book while tackling some heavy topics woven into the story.
I now need the final instalment Implode publishing September 21st 2023 to see how it all ends and maybe Nic can redeem himself in my eyes (and more importantly Claire’s!!)
August 10, 2023
Ball of Sunshine ☀️
Grumpy Man Candy 🍭
This book was amazing. You're thrown into the crazy, emotional world of Claire. She is bubbly , sweet, amazing and ofc WILD. A magnet for trouble even on the days she isn’t trying. Claire has a rough life filled with emotional and some physical abuse thanks to her jerk of a boyfriend.
Here comes Nic who is always grumpy. I’m convinced he was scolding the world with his eyes. He is very reserved and keep mostly to himself and the small group of trusted people. He is also overprotective of his small circle. Nic is like the knight in shining armor even if he don't want to see it.
Two people from opposite worlds collide. Both complimenting one another. He can tame this ball of wildness. And she can turn the grumpy man into a buzzing bee fill with smiles and laughter.
Watch these two wrecked individuals find each other.
As this being the first book in their journey. Tag along in the playful banter between the two. The way they both rile each other up and even complimenting one another.
This is a slow burn but I can promise you it's really nice and enjoyable. I had a lot of squealing, kicking and screaming moments with these two. The first part is a little hard to digest due to the emotional abuse. Then when you see how Nic takes care of her you. It's really a wrap from there Sksks. Which cause her to fall for him and hard too. Nic I love him but mannnn you also just want to wack him at the same time.
Overall it was a nice read very thrilling and had me on the edge. The cliffhanger is silently killing me. So waiting for book 2
Tropes: Best friend and brother
Lovers to enemies to lovers
Slow burn
A*hole boyfriend
Grumpy meet sunshine
Grumpy Man Candy 🍭
This book was amazing. You're thrown into the crazy, emotional world of Claire. She is bubbly , sweet, amazing and ofc WILD. A magnet for trouble even on the days she isn’t trying. Claire has a rough life filled with emotional and some physical abuse thanks to her jerk of a boyfriend.
Here comes Nic who is always grumpy. I’m convinced he was scolding the world with his eyes. He is very reserved and keep mostly to himself and the small group of trusted people. He is also overprotective of his small circle. Nic is like the knight in shining armor even if he don't want to see it.
Two people from opposite worlds collide. Both complimenting one another. He can tame this ball of wildness. And she can turn the grumpy man into a buzzing bee fill with smiles and laughter.
Watch these two wrecked individuals find each other.
As this being the first book in their journey. Tag along in the playful banter between the two. The way they both rile each other up and even complimenting one another.
This is a slow burn but I can promise you it's really nice and enjoyable. I had a lot of squealing, kicking and screaming moments with these two. The first part is a little hard to digest due to the emotional abuse. Then when you see how Nic takes care of her you. It's really a wrap from there Sksks. Which cause her to fall for him and hard too. Nic I love him but mannnn you also just want to wack him at the same time.
Overall it was a nice read very thrilling and had me on the edge. The cliffhanger is silently killing me. So waiting for book 2
Tropes: Best friend and brother
Lovers to enemies to lovers
Slow burn
A*hole boyfriend
Grumpy meet sunshine
August 17, 2023
Inflame, book one of the Toxic Desire duet by Victoria Dawson, aptly describes the fiery intensity that sizzles between Nic and Claire. Believe me, this author is not kidding about the “Toxic” reference to desire with these two. There were several times I wanted to “Gibbs slap” them both as they seem bent on making bad decisions. There was one scene that I absolutely could not believe Nic let play out.
However, it was ultimately Claire’s decision to participate. That for me is what the crux of this story is about. Decisions, both good and bad and how life is filled with situations and choices that lead us to make them. How the pain of the past can alter your future when your dead set on becoming vulnerable again. When you want something so badly you begin to lose who you are in the process, because you twist yourself inside out thinking you need to change to attain it.
There are several highly emotional scenes and I do caution readers to heed the authors trigger warnings. Especially if emotional/physical abuse upsets you. I’ll admit, even being 35-40 years out from my own experience, it took me back. Having said that, I can validate the author’s portrayal of Ethan’s treatment of Claire.
On a lighter note, you will also be entertained by some great banter, as well as, moments that will make you swoon and sigh. I can just see Nic’s eyes roll every time he talks to Tyler. Overall, I have hope that Nic and Claire will get their heads out of their backsides and give me that coveted HEA in Implode coming in September. If not, Ms. Dawson and I will be having words. (kidding...maybe)
I received an E-ARC from the author, and this is my honest review.
However, it was ultimately Claire’s decision to participate. That for me is what the crux of this story is about. Decisions, both good and bad and how life is filled with situations and choices that lead us to make them. How the pain of the past can alter your future when your dead set on becoming vulnerable again. When you want something so badly you begin to lose who you are in the process, because you twist yourself inside out thinking you need to change to attain it.
There are several highly emotional scenes and I do caution readers to heed the authors trigger warnings. Especially if emotional/physical abuse upsets you. I’ll admit, even being 35-40 years out from my own experience, it took me back. Having said that, I can validate the author’s portrayal of Ethan’s treatment of Claire.
On a lighter note, you will also be entertained by some great banter, as well as, moments that will make you swoon and sigh. I can just see Nic’s eyes roll every time he talks to Tyler. Overall, I have hope that Nic and Claire will get their heads out of their backsides and give me that coveted HEA in Implode coming in September. If not, Ms. Dawson and I will be having words. (kidding...maybe)
I received an E-ARC from the author, and this is my honest review.
August 10, 2023
This is my first read by Victoria Dawson. I do plan to go back and read her Entice series as it was recommended to further understand some of the characters, relationships, and happenings in Inflame. Plus I really enjoyed the book and have a good feeling I’ll like the previous series (Angie and Graham’s story).
Nick’s brother is about to marry Claire’s best friend. They’ve known each other but never really got along or spent a lot of time together. And now they’re both asked to work together to plan Graham and Angie’s bachelor/bachelorette weekend trip to Vegas. Nic is a dark, grumpy, never going to love again type of guy. His main focus is his family and is work. But he has a hard time resisting Claire’s sex appeal and her spunky attitude.
This is also a BIG trip for Claire. She’s hoping to pull off the perfect weekend for her deserving best friend as well as rekindle her relationship with her boyfriend Ethan, regardless of how manipulative and abuse he is. You really can feel for the girl. Once you learn about her past and see how loving and vulnerable she is, you can’t help but really hope she kicks the guy the the curb.
Nic and Claire’s relationship starts out a little rough but as the trip begins their desire for each other only grows stronger. Time and time again Nic shows to Claire how much she’s worth and how she should truly be treated. I really liked their dynamic together. A real grumpy meets sunshine story.
Inflame does end on a cliffhanger. I can’t wait to read Implode (book 2).
Nick’s brother is about to marry Claire’s best friend. They’ve known each other but never really got along or spent a lot of time together. And now they’re both asked to work together to plan Graham and Angie’s bachelor/bachelorette weekend trip to Vegas. Nic is a dark, grumpy, never going to love again type of guy. His main focus is his family and is work. But he has a hard time resisting Claire’s sex appeal and her spunky attitude.
This is also a BIG trip for Claire. She’s hoping to pull off the perfect weekend for her deserving best friend as well as rekindle her relationship with her boyfriend Ethan, regardless of how manipulative and abuse he is. You really can feel for the girl. Once you learn about her past and see how loving and vulnerable she is, you can’t help but really hope she kicks the guy the the curb.
Nic and Claire’s relationship starts out a little rough but as the trip begins their desire for each other only grows stronger. Time and time again Nic shows to Claire how much she’s worth and how she should truly be treated. I really liked their dynamic together. A real grumpy meets sunshine story.
Inflame does end on a cliffhanger. I can’t wait to read Implode (book 2).
August 24, 2025
An ode to cheaters
Where to start, where to start? The series is aptly named, Toxic Desire, because it certainly is that. And my comment about cheating? - the FMC, Claire, is the product of her mom cheating. That leads to a loveless childhood, and all the adult problems that comes with it. Make no mistake, Claire is wildly immature and irresponsible. And her search for love and acceptance reads like every bad true life dissection of a life gone wrong.
Nic, the MMC, his fiance cheated on him, so now his thing is, he only 🍆's women in relationships, causing them to cheat. His form of revenge on the woman who 🔩 him over.
All of this said, the underlying story is interesting. It is an enemies to lovers /grumpy /mostly sunny story. The cheating is a constant theme, mostly in the form of Nic's internal dialog.
The writing itself is technically fine with good editing. It flows well and is an easy read.
Will I continue with Book 2? I'm not sure. Both main characters are really broken. When you read their story, you can see why they both are the way they are, but the character grief needed to overcome it, I'm not sure the author can deliver. I'll probably skim the first few chapters of book 2 to see which way the wind is blowing.
Just know your triggers, and if yours are cheating, mental and physical abuse, parental neglect, and self sabotage, you may want to hold off.
Where to start, where to start? The series is aptly named, Toxic Desire, because it certainly is that. And my comment about cheating? - the FMC, Claire, is the product of her mom cheating. That leads to a loveless childhood, and all the adult problems that comes with it. Make no mistake, Claire is wildly immature and irresponsible. And her search for love and acceptance reads like every bad true life dissection of a life gone wrong.
Nic, the MMC, his fiance cheated on him, so now his thing is, he only 🍆's women in relationships, causing them to cheat. His form of revenge on the woman who 🔩 him over.
All of this said, the underlying story is interesting. It is an enemies to lovers /grumpy /mostly sunny story. The cheating is a constant theme, mostly in the form of Nic's internal dialog.
The writing itself is technically fine with good editing. It flows well and is an easy read.
Will I continue with Book 2? I'm not sure. Both main characters are really broken. When you read their story, you can see why they both are the way they are, but the character grief needed to overcome it, I'm not sure the author can deliver. I'll probably skim the first few chapters of book 2 to see which way the wind is blowing.
Just know your triggers, and if yours are cheating, mental and physical abuse, parental neglect, and self sabotage, you may want to hold off.
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