Yearning Devotion

Yearning Series #1

by Rachael Orman

Gwen has lived a hard life. She has endured many situations that would have broken a weaker person. But she has found love in her life and it keeps her from completely losing it when things get rough. That is, until one day a man enters her life that changes everything.

Will this man help Gwen become a stronger woman or will he completely destroy her?


**This is an erotic book with F/F, F/F/M, M/F situations and not intended for people under 18**

Genres: Erotica, Menage, Romance, Dark, Erotic Romance, Adult

293 pages, ebook

First published July 28, 2013

About the author

Happily married mother of two darling, trying, beautiful, horribly energetic little girls, an adorable German Shephard pup who makes her get off her butt and at least go for a walk around the block, and a fat, old, lazy chihuahua.

When she isn't spending all her time writing dirty, sexy, naughty erotic romances, she is narrating audiobooks and helping run a LBGT blog.

Rachael loves to push herself to write new things so her books vary from heterosexual romances to gay/lesbian romances to menage romances... She couldn't imagine writing outside of the romance genre since that's what life is all about.. Love, sex, happiness.

She is a full supporter of the LBGT community and equality for all.

Please connect with her as she loves to know that people appreciate the time and energy she puts into each story.
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/WriterRachae...

Facebook Street Team: https://www.facebook.com/groups/31993...

Facebook Audiobook Narrator Page: https://www.facebook.com/ChloeColeNar...

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RachaelOrman

Sign Up for Rachael’s Newsletter and get TWO F-R-E-E Stories.

In Flight – an Erotic Short Story (MFM) – An adventurous overworked Summer takes on a pair of sexy older twins.
AND
Her Ride – a full length novel (MF) – A former female Marine, Ryan, is getting out of the service. While trying to find herself again, she lands at her older brother’s house, which also happens to be where her childhood crush and the motorcycle club her brother runs hangs out.

Head over here to get your free starter library! http://rachaelormanauthor.wix.com/rac...

Reviews

[Jessica's Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

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Yearning Devotion took me my total surprise. I will be honest; I was a little hesitant to read a romance novel involving f/f and f/f/m situations. I was happily surprised that Yearning Devotion had an actual story to it and not just hot sex scenes written for shock value more than entertainment like many erotic novels are, but the scenes are still SUPER SEXY & H-O-T!! Wowzers!


I was right away hooked with the storyline and the characters. Gwen is a 27 year-old fashion designer student who rides the subway to work/school every day when she spots “Mr. Green Eyes”, Cole a business man who Gwen finds very intriguing. This is a first for Gwen who was held captive for five years as a teenager by two men who raped and beat her repeatedly until she ran away. Gwen is completely turned off by men and even has a girlfriend, McKayla who the two have a very loving but sexy relationship. Cole is a first for her and she is interested but scared at the same time by Cole.

Cole & Gwen have a flirtatious relationship and soon a sexual relationship with one hot steamy scene involving Gwen, Cole, AND McKayla. Gwen who has her guard up with men learns Cole is hiding something and her trust is lost in him. Gwen and Cole’s relationship is like a rollercoaster ride with highs & lows over a year’s time. They have a real connection that isn’t just sex, Cole really cares for Gwen and at times he doesn’t even want to have sex with her, he wants to get to know Gwen as well.



Yearning Devotion was a really great mix of sex & story. Even the f/f scenes were written well and though steamy it was also part of the story and there is reasoning behind Gwen & McKayla being together & trusting one another. They are both broken women who have been hurt by men their entire lives. They have a real loving relationship. I will be curious to see how Gwen can maintain a relationship with McKayla & Cole… it should be interesting!

The book is on the shorter side but I did not feel like I was cheated out of a story, it was the perfect length and every detail was given. The story was very well developed and more emotional then what I had been anticipating. The book does end on a cliff hanger with Gwen’s past coming back to her. I really want the next book in the series, like NOW! Yearning Devotion totally surprised me, I recommend the book to those who enjoy erotic romance novels but are also looking for a story not just sex.

I give Yearning Devotion 3.5 Stars

Book provided by the author in return for an honest review.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given the opportunity to read just this past week. I won't say too much as to prevent the spoil of any surprises of the book, and there are the perfect number of!
I can complain only of one single thing - "THE END." A part of me wanting to cry turning the page, seeing those words. I fell in love with each of the main characters for different reasons each. There is so much meaning, and for me personally - I found even some inspiration in the ways the characters, Gwen especially, lives her life. There is the absolute perfect amount of each emotion; the way each plays out is just perfect. Love and happiness, but not a cheap fairy tale. Violence, and sexual content, but not to disgust or turn down. I very anxiously await the release, of not only Yearning Devotions -- but also each upcoming book from this lovely author.
If you don't have this on your list to read, I highly recommend doing so, and cannot wait for the release and to share the story and thoughts with others!

[Tee loves Kyle Jacobson · Rating 5 out of 5]

FAN-FREAKING-TASTIC! OMG this is one series I will re-read over and over again because I was so captured by the writing and the characters and the strength of the main character Gwen. I read a lot of erotica and I have to say that I absolutely love the fact that the author went there with F/F and F/M/F. To me this shows she has balls of steel and I was not disappointed in the least bit when I started reading this book and could not put it down until the end. Then the end left me screaming at my kindle because I need the next book like PRONTO!

Gwen has had a rough life. She grew up with no parents and living in foster care and then living on her own where she had to do whatever she had to do to survive. She ended up being abused and used as a sex slave. She finally gets the strength to fight back her captor and when she runs she decides she will start a new life. As she struggles with homelessness and starvation she eventually meets McKayla and together they take care of each other.

Gwen has her secrets and her past will not define her because she decides she will move on and have a happy life. So she goes to college and she works and she hangs with McKayla. Then her life takes a change for the better when she meets Cole. Lord Cole is all shades of gorgeous and he has captured her heart but she is scared to let him in because of her past. But Cole is determined to break down the walls she has up and together they find happiness.

But happiness is short lived because one her captors she fled from has found her and he is going after her with a vengeance. With her past coming back to haunt her can she,Cole and McKayla be safe and stay together? Man what a nail biting story that had me on the edge of my seat! I need book two like ASAP!

[Gina Buffo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my God!!!! To be honest I starting reading this book with no expections. I had no idea what the story was about. I started reading at 12:30am. Thinking I would read a few pages before I went to bed. Boy was I wrong 5 1/2 hours the book was down and was up until 6 am. After that I needed about an hour to "cool off". The characters story line and background captivated me. I could not put it down for anything. I fell in love with them, felt compassion for what they went through. I can't remember a time when I was so enthralled with a book! I didn't even read those "best seller" books as fast as I did this one. Only disappointment was -the end- I didn't want it to be over! I cannot wait until the next one comes out to find out what happens next! This woman Gwen is a remarkable character, who has over come amazing hurdles! And the "adult" content was amazing! ! I would def recommend having someone close by to help relieve some built up "personal tension" otherwise I would def recommend a cool down period. I can not rave enough about how much i loved this book!

[Anna-marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this for Round Table Book Reviews

I admit I wasn’t a 100% sure of this book when I started reading it, but once I had got into the actual story, I really liked it.

The main character Gwen, has been through hell, and is finally turning her life around. She is with someone and they love each other & support each other completely. They understand what each other have been through.
Then Gwen meets a man who could change her life.
This is a rather good story, & very easy to get into. It is an Erotic book, so I wasn’t expecting some of the sex scenes, but it was very hot & sexual.
The characters are very easy to like, and you can’t help wishing the best for them. The all work really great together.
There is humour & great sadness in this story, my heart really went out to Gwen, but she is a strong lady.
The exciting twist, although not unexpected considering, had my heart in my throat.
I am looking forward to reading the next instalment now.

[Hazel *Craves the Angst Reviews* · Rating 1 out of 5]

I received this eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.

This one just wasn't for me. It was a nice, steamy story with interesting characters but I couldn't get past the editing errors, the troublesome dialogue or the disjointed flow of the plot itself. I think with a lot more editing and a little more attention paid to the details, this could be a much better read but as it stand now, its just not for me.

Thank you to the author for allowing the the opportunity to read and review.

[Chelsea Camaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my hotness!!!! This is an erotic read with depth. The past that both Gwen and McKayla go through and come out supporting each other is heart wrenching. I love the unconditional love and bond between these two. And Cole, oh, hello mister hotness. Great read and I can't wait for more.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky to receive and ARC for an honest review. This will contain spoilers...

Holy shit... That is what comes to mind when I think about this phenomenal book that I just finished! I laughed, I cried, and I got really turned on! This book is amazing and I loved it from the first sentence to the very last.

It starts with blood. Lots of blood. She was about to be attacked and her attacker had thought she had grown complacent, he left keys and his pocket knife on the kitchen counter. She hid the knife in her shorts and when he attacked her and slammed her face into a wall and broke her nose, she slid the knife out of the shorts and stabbed the guy in the neck and slid as hard as she could to his other ear. She dropped the knife, grabbed his keys and RAN!

10 Years Later...

We meet Gwen Black. Who takes the subway into the city with music in her ears. Music is her lifeline. She got her GED and was in her first semester in Fashion Design. While people watching on the subway she finds "Mr. Green Eyes".

As she made it to her stop, she gets off the subway and as she is walking and not paying attention, she trips over her own two feet. Before she hits the ground, she feels big hands on her arms and she was pulled up against a really hard chest. As her rescuer asks if she is ok, she turns to see who the deep voice belongs to and looks right at "Green Eyes". She gets a little lost in those amazing eyes of his. Then she realizes that she he spoke and she snaps out of her trance. He introduces himself as Cole Cressley. As she gained her confidence, she winked and gave him a smile thanking him and never giving her name.

The next morning, she sees him on the subway again, they talk for a but, she still never gave him her name. Later that day, on her way home, she ran into him again. Finally telling him her name, they start talking again, this time it kind of hits close to home for Gwen and she gets a little upset. Cole seeing that she was upset wouldn't let her go with out at least calming her down and invites to take her for some coffee. They sit and talk more getting to know each other with out really getting to know each other. As she realized she was there a while, she says she needs to leave and he kisses her good bye.

Gwen has an internal freak out and runs to a cab and leaves without saying anything. As soon as she is in the cab, she pulls out her phone and calls her girlfriend McKayla. As she reaches McKaylas apartment, she goes inside and McKayla knows just what she needs. McKayla helps her relax by giving her an amazing orgasm in the shower. After the shower, they talk about Gwen's day.

Gwen tells McKayla about the kiss and realizes she has liked it. Which scares her cause she didn't think she could ever have feelings for a man and she doesn't know what to do with it. The next morning Gwen is on the subway again and drawing a new design in her sketchbook. Cole comes and sits close and they talk, he asks about her drawings and she shows him one that she isn't to embarrassed to show people. He thinks that they are fabulous.

After the subway, she heads to class then to her job, where we learn she works for Finest Companions which is a high end escort service. Gwen doesn't enjoy sex with a man cause after being held in captivity for 5yrs, she thinks its just something else you do. Her clients pay a little more for her services. She has a date with a 50+yr old man who takes her to a black tie party. Once they get there, She learns the party is hosted by Cole in his apartment. He doesn't know the reason she is there.

After Gwen makes it home from the party, she can't seem to get Cole out of her head, she changes out of her fancy gown and into a really tight dress and heads back to his apartment. Once there, she knocks and he doesn't answer. As she realizes she is being foolish, she goes to get on the elevator and doesn't realize he opened the door. As he says something to her and she turns around. He asks why she is there and she doesn't really know why and says that. She looks him over and realizes his chest is bare and he is only wearing basketball shorts. HOT!!! He invites her in and makes her left over food. After feeding her, he takes her to bed and they have great sex. Afterwards they are so tired, she decides to stay the night.

Waking up to a crash the next morning, she hears a woman screech... asking Cole who this woman is, the lady says she is his wife. Gwen is taken by surprise, she looks to Cole who is looking at her lap. She slaps him hard and grabs her dress and leave. Completely heart broken, she goes to McKaylas and looses it. Cries in her cheerios. Completely devastated. She ends up depressed and drinking a lot.

She realizes after a while she needs to fully open up to McKayla and tells her all about being held from the time she was 12 to the time she was 17 and raped, beaten, and starved repeatedly. She miscarried 3 babies and the final straw that made her get up her resolve and kill one of the bastards that where holding her was the fact that she was pregnant with her 4th baby. So she escaped and became homeless. The fact that she was so malnourished, she lost baby number four.

After fully opening up, she felt so much better that she decided it was time to quit at the Escort agency and get her life back on track. She remembers she was given a card for a top design company in the city. So she calls and found out if she quits school and takes the job, she will learn a lot more and it is only contracted for a year and after that year if she wants to leave she is welcome to stay on as an assistant or she can start her own line and they will help her with that.

After a year goes by, she is at fashion week about to show off her new line, she gets nervous. McKayla who is now a model, helps her calm down. As her show went great, she goes out to bow and sees familiar green eyes in the audience. After pulling it together, she finishes out the show. While at dinner to celebrate, McKayla takes Gwen out to celebrate the success. At dinner, McKayla sees Cole and tries to warn Gwen but he is already in pursuit. Coming up to the table, Gwen wouldn't let him explain and walks past him.

Over the next few days, she keeps seeing him everywhere. Finally, as she is leaving the bathroom at the gym, she runs into another guy. He tried hitting on her and after she kindly tried to say no thanks, he wouldn't let up. Before she knew it, he was up against a wall and the man holding him there was Cole. Cole explained he needed to talk to her Gwen, but she didn't want to hear it.

Gwen got offers for jobs by a few companies after the success of her show. Even the company she worked at as an assistant. She showed up for her appointment and found out that the lady who was to interview her was out sick so that woman's boss was going to do the interview. As she is escorted back, she enters a huge office and waits for the interviewer to turn around. It turns out to be Cole. He is the CEO and Owner for MHKR. She sees the look in his eyes, he has a flat look and he is sooo cold towards her like he never met her before.

As the interview progresses, it doesn't get any better. As she realizes she is fed up with his attitude she gets her composure about her and decides to grab her portfolio and leave. As she is about to get to the door, she feels arms wrap around her and she freezes. He explains that he doesn't know if he can work with her and not touch her. After he explains the situation with his now ex wife and where he has been for the last year, she realizes cant resist him anymore and they have hot passionate sex against the wall of windows.

He tells her he is picking her up for dinner that night and she was going to explain everything to him so there were no secrets between them. At dinner that night she told him all about her past. He accepts her cause he realized that he fell in love with her a long time ago. That night he stays at her apartment with her and McKayla.

The next day he goes to work and Gwen gets a call about the job she interviewed with Cole and was offered a position with his company. She happily accepts. After that call she gets another really chilling call from the brother of the man she killed 10yrs prior. He threatened her. As a few days go by she hasn't heard anything more and assuming he moved on she never tells Cole about the call.

To celebrate her new job, Cole took her out to dinner. As they pulled up to the restaurant, she gets outta the car and freezes instantly. Cole realizes the problem and looks up, in front of them stands a man from Gwens past. Cole asks if she knows him. All she can say is....

"YES".

This book was phenomenal. I really can't wait for book 2... all I can say is Chapter 9 is worth reading this book alone!!!! That is one hot and steamy chapter!!!! I hope y'all enjoy this book as much as I did!!!

[Rebecca Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I LOVE a good book! I could sit around reading all day long if real life didn't get in the way. I am also VERY easily distracted! This rings true with every time I pick up a book. If the first couple of chapters don't pull me in, I'll likely throw it aside (well, virtually speaking, since I usually read books on my phone). I don't care if it's my favorite person in the world who wrote it, I will not rave about something I don't personally adore.
Luckily for me, I fell in LOVE with YD as soon as I started reading it!

As you can tell by the back of the book, the leading characters are a woman (Gwen), a man (Cole)... and another woman (McKayla). Gwen is the main character, and we are taken through her journey. She had a very large part of her life be absolutely horrid, yet comes out of it and takes to heart things she's learned during her ordeal(s). We aren't given the full information until many chapters into the book, and I think that helped the shock factor the first time around, and the ability to feel even more connected to her the second time around. It's not often I feel the need to read a book twice in a short time period, but with this book I did. The second time around I think I fell even MORE in love with the characters (if that's even possible!).

The characters in the book are ones that I felt quickly connected to. We've all had things happen to us, and we all can feel empathy for those who have as well. I loved that I was able to feel connected to more than just the main character. As the story progresses through my opinion on each character went all over the place. I learned to not assume that one character is really a certain way, because when more is revealed that assumption proved to be the one I shouldn't have made. I went through such a rainbow of emotions while reading, that I couldn't put it down wanting to know "what next?!?!" I didn't expect some of the twists and turns and I was constantly kept at the edge of my seat (Well, maybe bed, because I tend to do most of my reading while the rugrats sleep since it's so difficult to focus on anything when they're awake.)

I am not, by any means, against erotica books; however I also don't consider them my first choice when it comes to reading material. I'm all for a good love story IF (and only "if") it's not sappy. I don't do sappy, cheesy love stories. You will NOT find Fabio with his crazy mane of hair on any of the books I like to read. As for the erotica side, there have been a few I've really liked in my time, but majority I've read focus too much on the "sex" and not enough on there being an actual amazing story line with it. Rachael Orman has done an AMAZING job with finding a happy medium - while keeping the erotic side erotic (using it to enhance the story line, not just be the whole focus of the novel) and including the "awww" love factor without overly doing it, while still somehow writing a book with a strong plot and story line that kept me glued. The sex scenes are extremely hot and steamy, but if you're not into those you can very easily skip over the sex scenes and still have a fabulous story to follow without really missing a beat. Without the sex scenes, the book is still a wonderfully good read, however I say read them and enjoy them. ;) I know it's triple digits here, but *phew* everything gets even hotter when reading through those parts of the book!

I had many questions when I was reading through the first time, and although many were answered, there are still more waiting to be answered - which also leaves room for subsequent novel(s) to continue to keep my interest. There's so much more growth and development that these characters can go through, and so much more I look forward to learning about them! I didn't know if I should love or hate that YD left me with my jaw on the floor when I read those two words "THE END". I wanted to scream! "NO! NO! I'M NOT READY FOR THIS TO END! WHAT NEXT? WHAT HAPPENS?" but I knew it'd do me no good to wake up the rugrats and have no resolution to my frustration, so I picked my jaw up off the floor and will just have to wait (im)patiently for the second installment!

I HIGHLY recommend getting this novel! I didn't include a lot of the info on the actual story, because I personally can't stand when reviews have spoilers, and I don't want to ruin it for you. It's worth the read, for sure!

[Verna Loves Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was definitely different than any other book I’ve read. It’s one of those books that you just don’t know if people are going to love or hate. But I have to say that I really enjoyed it. The prologue is what gets you. It leaves your heart pounding and you want to keep reading just so you know more of what is happening.

Gwen is a very strong and courageous woman. Not many women could have survived what she went through and still be trying to make her life better. She has so many walls up except for when it comes to McKayla. McKayla is a sweet and caring girl. She is a wonderful friend to Gwen and they have both been through a lot of pain. So they help one another to heal and end up in love. You definitely don’t choose who you fall in love with, so I was just happy that they found each other and could help one another through the turmoil that they both endured. My heart broke a lot for both girls because of what happened to them.

“Trust me, I’m the worst about expressing what I feel with the right words. I always seem to screw it up, but I want to try for you. I want to try to be a better person than I have been in the past because I want you to be proud to say that you are with me. I want to be worthy of everything you have to give. I know that I’m not but I want to try.” (Gwen to Cole)

Then comes along the most wonderful man, Cole. He is sweet and gentle with Gwen. He breaks all of her walls and she is intrigued by him. She develops feelings for him. Along with his gentleness he is one of the most passionate men ever. That is until you find out that he is married. I seriously never wanted to smack a man so hard when it got to this part of the book. I was so mad at him

“I’ve wanted to do that all night.” He said looking deeply into her eyes. A smile in his eyes. “I still remember the first time I kissed you just like that, you know. I had no idea how much you would come to mean to me back then but I knew that you were someone special that I had to get to know better. You are so beautiful even through all the horrors life has thrown at you. Not just your face and body, although those are amazing, but your soul. You are still so caring and loving after everything and everyone was so hard on you. You really are a little miracle.” (Cole)

I was so glad when things finally started to fall together for the girls. Gwen deserved good things and when they started happening I couldn’t have been happier for her. She sure did have a lot of drama going on; it was never a dull moment. A year passes and things fall in place that is until she runs into Cole again. I was beyond relieved to find out that everything that happened was such a big misunderstanding because I couldn’t help but love him.

“Even without this. I really do like the idea that I will get to see you every day even though you bring out a different side of me that I’m not used to dealing with. You make me a different man. I’ve never cared to make someone happy. I’ve never felt this squeezing in my chest when I think I’ve upset someone like I get with you. When you smile at me or because of something I’ve done, it makes my entire day better.” (Cole)

“I said nothing about moving on. I think you are the ultimate challenge. You are the challenge of a life time. I don’t think I’ve ever met a woman like you. You are incredibly headstrong, stubborn and hard to understand while being more beautiful, passionate, intelligent and tender than any woman I have ever met. Trust me, I have met many women and you are the only one that has ever captured me from the first moment you tripped over your won feet.” (Cole)

The ending just threw me for a loop; I was left shocked and just staring at the screen because there wasn’t any more to read. I can’t wait for the second book so I can find out what happens. The beginning and the ending will both leave you wanting more.

*Arc received by author for an honest review

[Bethany · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

I’m not sure how I feel about this novel. I’m kind of on the fence. I liked it, but I did find it rather unbelievable. Don’t get me wrong, if there is people out there like this – more power to them. I just can’t understand the rational thinking behind the relationship. Again, don’t get me wrong. I did like this book, I thought it was rather intense and the sexual scenes were NOT lacking. I mean I’m all for f/f romance novels, to me they’re hot as hell. Women know women, and to me that is a turn on. I definitely give Rachel credit in the erotic moments in this novel, even though some events just weren’t at all realistic for me.

The storyline was definitely intense and maybe just a little over the top at times, a few things didn’t sit well with me about this story at times, either. The prologue tells you about the main character Gwen’s past in detail. When I started chapter 1, I was confused. Even though it said 10 years later, I felt as if it were a completely different story. I remained confused until the second half of the book, when Gwen’s past comes back to haunt her. I kept expecting it, and almost felt disappointed when it didn’t happen. At times the story jumped around a bit, which also confused me.

The aspect of meeting someone by chance and having a connection with them has always intrigued me. I could only wish to be one of those people, one day! When Gwen met Cole she was completely entranced by his green eyes, and didn’t understand the attraction to him, being that she has sworn off men due to her violent past… which didn’t make any sense to me considering her occupation. I felt it was a huge contradiction. I did however love her relationship with her girlfriend McKayla. McKayla as a support character was endearing and easier to relate to.

I really feel as if the author could have intertwined the past with the present for an easier transition. I feel like I’m being a bit harsh here, and I apologize if anyone feels that way. I’m not into bashing authors or novels. I pride myself on an honest review, and will not stray from how I feel about this book. I DID like this book. I liked the storyline, I thought the sexual scenes were intense and well written. I would still recommend this book to someone who’s looking for a decent erotica. I think I may just be too much of a realist to believe some of the situations that happened. Or… maybe I’m just a jealous person who doesn’t share well with others. Honestly, I’d love to be more like McKayla.

Yearning Devotion was definitely a sexy read. I liked the relationship between the two women, and the trust that they had for each other. I liked how they met, and how relatable that part of the story was. The book is on the shorter side, but you’re not cheated out of a story. The attention to detail was wonderful at times, but lacking at other moments. While this book did give me some serious feels, it was mostly about the angst and tensions. I want the next book in the series, because I need to know what is going to happen… Cliff hangers kill me. I love them but I hate them. This novel definitely surprised me, in several different ways. Not all good, not all bad. All in all… this was a good story, I’m not sad that I read it. I would recommend this to the right person, but if you’re an avid reader, you can go either way with some of the situations – like I did.

[Roses Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

To call Gwen’s life difficult would be an understatement. Abandoned by her parents, she’s alone in the world. At the age of 12 she was kidnapped by two brothers and held for five years and endured rapes, beatings, starvation, and heartache in the worst way possible. Her escape came after a brutal beating in which she was able to grab a knife and kill one of the brothers.

That was ten years ago. Gwen has in a lot of ways been able to move on with her life. Having met McKayla in a rape survivors meeting, she’s been able to heal for the most part. But a large part of her is still living in the past having left her unable to be with a man in a relationship. Mckayla has become her rock and vice versa. Mckayla is a stripper and Gwen is an escort. It allows them both to find some healing and move on with their lives.

Gwen’s ultimate dream is to be a fashion designer. She picked up a pencil one day and started drawing and before she knew it she fell in love with making beautiful gowns and started attending designer school. It’s on the subway people watching while she’s drawing that she sees a gorgeous man with green eyes. They share the same schedule every morning getting off on different stops. One day when Gwen gets off at his stop and trips almost falling to the pavement they actually meet official for the first time. His name, Cole Cressley. Cole is always dressed to impress and sure and confident in himself. So confident that he breaks through Gwen’s walls to the point that she falls into his bed not once but twice. The second time ends with her staying the whole night.

Cole in the short amount of time that he’s known Gwen has changed her. He’s made her see what it’s like for a man to take you with pure love in his eyes, at least that’s what she assumes it was until she wakes up the next day and finds his wife ready to kill them both. Devastated and with nowhere to go, she runs back to Mckayla and once again Mckayla is forced to pick up the pieces of her broken heart and fix the pain caused by yet another man.

It’s not until more than a year later when they see one another again. But what happens when they do? Has she really moved on from the hurt he caused? Whatever became of the other brother that kidnapped her?

With this story, you must keep an open mind. There’s a lot going on here, f/f, f/f/m, and f/m. If you’re not into that, then this is not the book for you because there are a lot of f/f scenes that go on in this book. If you don’t mind that, this is a wonderful story full of pain and heartbreak and a woman’s courage to move on from such a horrible time in her life. My only issue is if there will be another book? The ending of this story led me to believe their might be another or even two books in this series, but the end of the book just had a ‘The End’ and that was it. I would love to know and I’m sure other readers would as well, if there will be another book because for me the story just kind of ended with me scratching my head. It was fast paced and had an interesting storyline.. Overall this was a great story full of love, passion, and pain, 4 stars.

***ARC provided by author in exchange for a honest review***

[Dawn Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has one of the most unique plots that I have read in a long time. I really enjoyed Yearning Devotion because it is a book unlike anything that I have ever read. It tells the story of Gwen, a bisexual, up and coming fashion designer who has such a horrible past that it affects her every day of her life. One day she meets a green eyed handsome stranger on the subway and is immediately intrigued but cautious. There is an instant chemistry between Gwen and Cole, but Cole is hiding a secret that could threaten to doom the pair before they even get started. Through all the up and downs of her life, Gwen has been able to depend on McKayla, a fellow survivor and her lover. Can Cole and McKayla help Gwen survive her past or is it ready to doom them all?

Wow! When is the last time that you heard a story like that? I was immediately intrigued by Gwen and her subway musings. When she and Cole meet- it is electric. Both are intrigued, but Gwen chooses to err on the side of caution. Cole, in the meantime is relentless. He wants Gwen and has no qualms in admitting it. Gwen’s best friend and lover McKayla is there through it all for Gwen. Their bond is such that McKayla encourages Gwen to pursue her need for Cole. Kudos to the author for writing such strong women who stand up for themselves and are not defined by their mistakes or their career choices. Cole is sexy and sarcastic. He is also flawed, charming and charismatic.

I loved these characters. They were not perfect but real individuals. Each were unique and hid secrets that shaped their lives. It was fascinating to see the dynamics between the trio as their relationship evolved and grew. These were very well rounded characters that you cared about and rooted for.

The storyline absolutely blew my mind. Individual, unique, sexy, angsty, tempestuous, fascinating. The writing keeps you intrigued from beginning to end. And the end- you want to talk about screwing with your mind. The ending leaves you with a huge cliff hanger that opens the door to all kind of possibilities. I am very curious to see where the sequel leads and to watch as the relationship dynamic unfolds even further between Gwen, Cole and McKayla.

I quite enjoyed this book. It was a pretty quick read due to the fact that it kept my attention and I found it very difficult to put down. Overall, I would give it a 4 out of 5 stars.

[Jessy (Jessy's Book Club) · Rating 3 out of 5]

And now for something different…

I’ve never read f-f erotica. I love my growly dominant men too much to read a book without one. But I always want to try something new so I got Yearning Devotion.

This is the story of Gwen Black. Gwen has lived a hard life. Abducted, raped and abused, she’s learnt first hand of human cruelty. An experience that left her incapable of trusting men. She’s in a relationship with McKayla. A girl she met at the lowest point of her life – both having gone through similar circumstances. They’ve come a long way from the abused girls they were and they are still very much in love with each other. Gwen takes the subway every day to school and she’s noticed a man she calls Mr. Green Eyes. A mishap brings her face to face with him, Cole Cressler. This encounter is the beginning of their story.

Again, I wasn’t sure how much I’d enjoy f-f erotica. Turns out I’m not it’s biggest fan. I realized I was looking forward to the scenes between Gwen and Cole the most. Not that the ones with McKayla weren’t hot, they just didn’t leave me hot and bothered :) That being said. I quite enjoyed this story. Be warned that it is dark – we get to know all the terrible things that happened to Gwen during her abduction.

I took that well enough because I’ve read darker books but what bothered me was the editing problems. First of all it was written in the omniscient point of view which has never been a favorite. I did like that we got to know what everyone was thinking and feeling but that back and fourth between characters did not allow me to connect with any of them as much as I wanted to. That aside, the book is in need of a bit more editing. Some spelling mistakes, grammatical errors topped off by stilted conversation. I have to admit that at 60% I was still contemplating abandoning the book but a few things made me read on.

One, Mckayla is not bisexual so I kept wondering how their relationship would work. Sharing Gwen with Cole can’t be easy and I kept wondering when it would become too much. I’m definitely cheering for Cole, which of course emphasizes the point that f-f erotica is just not for me. Other than that, somebody from Gwen’s past comes back which leaves us with a massive cliffhanger.

I’m somewhat curious about the sequel…

3 stars.

I'd like to thank the author for providing this copy for my review.

For more reviews go to http://jessysbookclub.wordpress.com/ anc check out https://www.facebook.com/JessysBookClub

[Tbird London · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was NOTHING that I expected. Gwen’s past was so heart breaking, I was instantly drawn to her wanting her to find her way in life and succeed. To have no family, been a victim of kidnap, torture, rape, abuse and then to find the only way to deal with it was to be a prostitute while trying to go to school and make a better life, she amazed me.

Cole, who is the kind of man it would be easy to fall in love with, had to battle against some terrible assumptions made about him, but I still wished he would have fought harder in the beginning to set the record straight. You gotta love a man who has no clue about her past but knows there is some deep trauma going and knows how to make her feel loved and special. Now I haven’t even mentioned how after a year he was still determined to find her and explain those assumptions were wrong.

McKayla is Gwen’s bestfriend/girlfriend. Yes I separated those two relationships because they are sexually involved, yet also best friends. McKayla had a past of her own that she was trying to over come and she was a huge support for Gwen. What I loved about this character was how much she loves Gwen and wants her happy, even if that means allowing Cole to become part of their relationship.

See why this book blew me away? Not what I was expecting to see a love triangle, where two of them were in love with ONE woman and that one woman who never knew what love was is able to find and show love equally to both.

Now we know every great book has to have a twist, maybe a cliffhanger, well this book doesn’t disappoint. The way Gwen escaped her kidnappers was bloody and messy and one of them has found her in her new life. This was one of those books where you read and read and absorb every word, gasping and cringing and feeling the heart rate pick up and just as you go to turn the page you find the dreaded words THE END. So I think as readers and fans of this book we need to bug this author to death till we find out if she escapes her kidnapper again, will Cole save her, will McKayla be safe?

This book is addictive, I read it in one day because I just couldn’t put it down. The sex scenes are hot, but the plot and intensity is HUGE………I am not sure how your read this and not get sucked into the story and cry when you hear what Gwen has overcome and pray that she finds a new life with Cole and McKayla.

[Our Fictional Boyfriends · Rating 4 out of 5]

***A big thanks Rachael Orman for providing me with a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review***

4 Stars

Yearning Devotion is absolutely a good read. The key to reading this book was to Keep open mind, since most erotica books I have read do not include F/F or F/F/M relationships. My interest was caught by the blurb and the intriguing prologue.

Yearning Devotion begins by introducing Gwen giving us a glimpse of all the pain she has endured. Life has been rough to her but she keeps going showing how strong and determined she is to succeed. This perseverance and ability to cope has a lot to do with the love and support Gwen’s girlfriend McKayla provides. The two met 10 years ago, about a month after Gwen escaped her captors. Their lives seemed to be going according to plan until the day Gwen meets Cole Cressley. Gwen doesn’t trust men but finds herself immediately captivated by Cole.

Little by little Cole proves to Gwen that not all men are bad and without even realizing it she lets him into her life and heart. Just when Gwen thought that her life couldn’t get any better, it all comes crumbling down, leaving McKayla to pick up all the broken pieces of her broken heart.

By the end of the book I was enthralled with the twisted love story. We are left with a CLIFFHANGER, as an unexpected person from Gwen’s past comes into the picture.

Overall this book was short and an emotional rollercoaster. I want to know; no I need to know how the relationship between Cole and Gwen will develop and if McKayla will continue to be part of the relationship. I am anxiously awaiting the next book in this series.

For all those who are still skeptical due to the content of this book, do not over think it. The sex scenes play the minority part in this book. The love that Cole and Gwen have will keep you wanting more.

[Monique Machuca-Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! … A-M-A-Z-I-N-G … WOW!

Yearning Devotion is an erotic romance that takes place ten years back when Gwen Black was finally able to escape her abductors after living in captivity for five of being abuse and raped.

She is now a 27 years old young woman with beautiful big brown eyes, long slightly wavy dark brown hair, thick eyebrows, pale pink lips, 5’7, and slightly curvy. She had obtained her GED and is now a student studying Fashion Design and working part-time as a High End Escort Service for Finest Companions.

While taking her daily commute on the subway to work and school, she meets ‘Green Eyes’, Cole Cressley, a very 32 years old HOT man, clean shaven, dark brown hair, 6’5 muscular fit body, and of course BEAUTIFUL GREEN EYES!

Of course, the triangle of love would not be complete without, McKayla Harrison, girlfriend and best friend that is right, okay, uh huh, yes, you got it, girl friend and best friend. McKayla was just as beautiful as Gwen with a tight size 4 body, six pack of abs, with long blonde hair, always watched her diet, and worked out every single day, plus she also works as a stripper for an exclusive club called Queen of Hearts. McKayla and Gwen had a special bond that could not be denied because they both found comfort in each other while fighting similar demons from their past.

Whom will Gwen decide to keep in life, Cole or McKayla or will they all decide to share their love with Gwen in a unique relationship just for them? Will Cole and/or McKayla find Gwen’s demons to be too much for them to handle through the relationship? Yearning Devotion is an EROTIC LOVE TRIANGLE STORY that will capture your attention immediately and will be unable to put the book down. While reading, you will find yourself on an INTENSE emotional roller coaster experiencing many emotions. Yearning Devotion is Rachael Orman’s first novel in her series, so do not be disappointed when you discover the book ends with huge cliffhanger. Rachael will not have us to waiting too long to find out what happens with Gwen, Cole, and McKayla, because she is currently writing the conclusion to Yearning Devotion, Yearning Absolution.

I rate Rachael Orman’s first novel in her series, Yearning Devotion - 5 AMAZING STARS!

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*

First, a disclaimer: this book has some very emotional themes; domestic violence, rape, abortion & adultery (in a fashion). If these subjects are a trigger for you, it is probably best to move on. It also ends in a cliffhanger that is a central part of the story, so if you are not one to want to wait for resolution, it would be best to wait until the next installment, Yearning Absolution (release date TBD) is released.

For her first book, Ms. Orman takes on a lot. In addition to the rape and abuse angle, we get a look at the relationship between Gwen, our heroine, and McKayla, her girlfriend. We also see a burgeoning relationship between Gwen and Cole, the handsome stranger she meets on a train. It would be easy to assume that the author is setting this up for a love triangle, however the characters are mature and recognize that each partner brings something very vital to their relationship with Gwen, and understand what she needs in order to heal from her abusive past.

Yearning Devotion is not just a sweet love story of overcoming adversity. This book is HOT. No kidding, make your lady parts (or man parts) tingle, HOT. The sex scenes, of which there are plenty, are well written, but not over the top. If you are offended by m/f/f menage or f/f, this book is not for you! We see both sides of Gwen’s relationship with each of her partners; the sweet and tender and the hot and passionate.

The storyline is original, it is certainly not formulaic like a lot of romance/erotic is becoming. Ms. Orman has crafted characters that you will become emotionally invested in, and allows them to grow individually as well as within their relationships. Gwen is a survivor and does not use her past as an excuse for her current shortcomings.

The one major complaint I have is how quickly the book ended. Just as we're coming to a major plot development, the book is over. It was a bit of a disappointment to get so involved and then, bam! We wait. Even just a glimpse of the next book would have left me sated.

I would give Yearning Devotion 3 ½ stars, but I will round up to four, simply for the originality (and heat!). I am eager to see what Ms. Orman will offer us next.

[Brittany *** A Beautiful Book Obsession** · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars!!

This book was one that you either hated or you loved it! At first, I thought I was going to hate it. It was not at all what I had been expecting. The more I read the more I was pulled in though. The characters really got to me and by the end of the book I couldn’t even decide if I liked this book. I waited a day before even trying to write this review to gather my thoughts. In the end I somehow grew to love this book. It’s a very twisted book and sad even. We see a character go through a lot of hurt and pain in her life to finally find happiness but at the end of the book her world is shaken up completely.

Yearning Devotion is the first book to ever make me really have to think about how I felt after reading it. There are a lot of things in the book that I found a bit odd I guess you could say, but yet gave me a perspective that some things are not always perfect in life and that means books as well.

We meet Gwen who has been through her fair share of hurt in her life. She has had McKayla in her life for 10 years and without her she probably wouldn’t be where she was. Her life seems to be going pretty well until suddenly Cole walks into it and shakes everything up. Gwen hates men and doesn’t trust them at all but Cole shows her that she can enjoy a man, trust a man, and even go as far as loving one.

It’s a twisted love triangle and things seem to be going good by the end of the book until an unexpected person comes back into Gwen’s life and really makes everything spin out of control and that it where we are left with this book. Must say, I am not a fan of cliffhangers but it does guarantee that book number two will be read by me. I have to find out what will happen with Gwen and her past, as well as will she ever pick one lover.
Overall, this was by far a very interesting story. It had lots of up’s and downs, right along with so many unexpected twists. I advise that if you read this story to have an open mind, and wait a day before jumping into the conclusion if you liked it or not. In the end I’ve come to the conclusion that I loved this book!!

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

More please!!
Stars: 4 ½ <3

"You've finished it already??" - My boyfriends exact words when I finished this beaut just 2 days after getting my hands on it. And for those 2 days I was absorbed, enthralled and hot.... Did I mention this book is HOT!!! As in take 50 shades and triple it hot. That doesn’t even begin cover my feelings for this book! But I don’t want you to focus on that (Yet), I want you to focus on this amazing and beautiful story that Rachael Orman has written. It takes a special kind of author to write something that is not only one of the hottest things I have EVER read, but also fill it with such depth and compassion.

In this book we follow Gwen on her heart breaking journey to love and acceptance of her past. Haunted by a kidnapping, Gwen spent years getting over the torture and abuse she received whilst held captive. Finding love wasn’t something she’d ever planned to do, but was an unexpected and pleasant surprise in the form of Mckayla. Her best friend, lover and saviour. Throughout this book Mckayla saves Gwen from her inner demons over and over and over again. She’s a saint and personally I love her as a character. I genuinely felt like she brought this book to life. You can see in this little world they have created, there’s no room for a man…Any further addition to their carefully, but barely held together life is going to end in disaster, and disaster comes in the tall dark and handsome shape of Cole. After their first meeting you’re left bewildered trying to work out exactly how this sexy man, is ever going to fit into their equation.

I can assure every one of you that you’ll be hooked after the first chapter. It’s that simple. The only question I have is why Rachael…Why? That just wasn’t fair (You know what I mean!!). I’ll be waiting impatiently for part two of this amazing series!

[Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cathy’s 4.5 Star Thoughts
REVIEWED FOR ROUND TABLE BOOK REVIEWS

Yearning Devotion by Rachael Orman is a visceral, intense read. Let me get the fine print out of the way before I tell you how much I enjoyed getting to know Gwen and Kayla. Yearning Devotion is an explicit tale with graphic violence and intense sex scenes. The sex includes ménage (f/f/m) and f/f. So, if any of that bothers you, don’t read it. For the rest of you meet Gwen, a young woman that has been through more in her short life than most everyone. Orphaned/homeless and kidnapped by two brothers, she endures unspeakable brutality and treatment. The scenes that describe her ordeal are hard to read. Yet they are not overly gruesome either.
Gwen is a survivor, she not only escapes her captivity, she struggles to make a normal life for herself. She meets Kayla at a rape recovery meeting. The two become friends. Kayla is everything you could ask for loving, supportive, open minded and positive. The two become lovers, hence the f/f scenes.
The story centers around Gwen and her efforts to lead a normal life. She meets Cole on the subway platform when she trips. Where they go with the relationship and the misunderstanding that drive them apart and together make this story riveting.
I didn’t give it five stars because there were a few places where the author told us instead of showing it. During those few pages, less than a chapter, I remembered I was reading a story. The rest of the time, the story swept me away. It was nerve wracking and hot. Lots of ups and downs! Also be warned…there is a bit of a cliffhanger at the end. It was so frustrating I sat up and growled! So, now I have another book on my “needs to be read as soon as it is published list!”

[Tatia · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Reviewed for Round Table Book Reviews**
As I'm sitting here, trying to write this review, I'm coming up blank. This was not what I expected, so I'm at a loss for words. This isn't my typical style of read, but I enjoyed it. I'm all for some Fifty Shades and Bared to You, but this was nothing like it. This story was HOT!

In the beginning we meet Gwen. She's endured some absolutely horrible things in her life. Things that I wouldn't wish upon my worst enemy. But she's able to survive and stay grounded thanks to her amazing girlfriend, McKayla, who also has a troubled past. They have the love and support that many can wish for. Then enters Cole. He completely twists Gwen's world upside down. She doesn't know what to think. Thanks to her past, she's not one to let men get close to her. There is just something about Cole that draws her in and has her feeling things she didn't know were possible. Soon, she realizes that her one rule that she set for herself has been broken. How does she move on and will she ever be able to trust another man again?

I'm really hoping that there will soon be a second book. There are so many unanswered questions that I need answers to. If you enjoy reading F/F and F/F/M, this is the story for you.

[Athena Freya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Given for an honest review for the Blog Tour

It is an absolutely amazing book...

This is so much more than a lovestory or a triangle..Actually,this is so much more than any other book I've read in a long time..

It is a very sad story but it speaks from the heart..I could describe it as emotional but even that pales in comparison with the truth..
It's so amazing that I have no other words to describe it..The depth of the characters and the unfortunate reality that comes with the story will hit you in the gut..I was dumbstruck all day,after I finished the book..
The emotions are displayed in such a way that you can feel them right to your bone..I felt the despair,the hurt,the anguish,the fear and the love coming from the pages right to my heart..There is no other way to describe it...

Even if it's just fiction,I really feel honoured to have read about Gwen..This book may be fiction but unfortunately it's been reality for other people..And I admire all of them for having survived such horror..
I can't wait to read the next book about Qwen...and I really hope that "being"(sorry but I cannot call him a person) follows his brother...{You'll know what I mean,after you read the book}

[J.F. Castillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yearning Devotion was a great read. While there were quite a few steamy scenes in this novel, the story line was intriguing enough to hold its own. Gwen is a woman who has suffered through some horrifying events. She's found comfort with her girlfriend McKayla (who happens to be my favorite character in this book) who has suffered through similar tragedies. Then one day, Gwen meets a man named Cole. What results is not your typical love triangle. But not everything is all hearts and flowers in this story and there is a darker aspect that begins to take shape.

Yearning Devotion is well written and draws you into the story. My feelings toward the characters went up and down with each of their actions which I think speaks volumes as to the author's ability to draw you in and create dynamic characters. Fair warning, this sexy number with a dark twist will leave you with your jaw on the floor and anxiously awaiting the sequel.

[For the Love of Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me say first, I hate books that leave you hanging, I like a heads up if this is a part one in a series....BUT I have to say I absolutely loved this book. This book had ugly... rape, but also had lovely... sweet hot sex. If you don't like sex with same sex partners this is not the book for you but if you are open then you will enjoy this book. You go on a journey as this sweet young abused girl becomes a smart woman in every sense of the word. You will enjoy the journey as she becomes one with herself. The loving with the woman on woman and woman on man will have you wishing you had that type of loving available. This book will grip you and keep you turning the pages wondering what will come next, never quit figuring out as she twists and turns you into a great story. Now wondering when the rest of the story will be coming out. Hopefully I will be able to read that soon... Full disclosure, I was given this book free for a true review. ~Karn (guest reviewer)

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, wow, wow!!! So I need a little time to recover from all of that HOT HOT sex!!! I think my husband would give this book a solid 5 stars (he didn't actually read it...but that's all I'm going to say). Sex aside, this was a really great book! The author did an amazing job with all of the characters...Gwen, McKayla and Cole are all really great characters. There was a great mix of sex, drama, romance, and some more really great sex :)

I was really pleasantly surprised with this book. It kept me interested from the beginning to the very end. There was a really great storyline that kept me wondering what was going to happen next. There was never a boring moment. There was a pretty mean cliffhanger in this book...so Rachel, please please please let the second book come out very soon!!! I can not wait to read more!!!

[J.A. Melville · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first started Yearning Devotion I admit I wasn't sure about it as it's so different to anything else I've read. It's not your typical hearts and flowers romance, that's for sure but as I read on, I got completely sucked in by the storyline. I had to admire Gwen for her strength and she took me on quite the roller coaster ride of emotions in this book and Cole, yes please, I'll have him.
This book finished on a cliff hanger to end all cliff hangers and now I'm going to have to sit twisting my hands together and grinding my teeth as I wait for the next book in the series.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book and even suffered a couple of book hangers to read it, but it was well worth it. I highly recommend this book. Rachael's done a brilliant job and it's hot as hell too.

[Savanna · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was so so so good!!! I found myself shocked more times than I ever thought I could be shocked lol. It kept me on my toes the whole time. And I ugly cried a few times. I can honestly say that when I was finished I definitely wanted more and I can't wait til I get the next book. Oh and I have to say that it was so freaking HOT!! Loved it!!!

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

my review in a few days

[Carol***BeautyandtheBeastlyBooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars -Review to come