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The Story of Samantha Smith #3
Painless
At last! The exciting, steamy, action packed conclusion to the Story of Samantha Smith. Painless follows Samantha through the remainder of her first year in college at sunny San Diego University.
Oh, and what about that hot hunk Christos Manos? When we last left him, his life balanced on the brink of disaster. What is going to happen to him?
You’ll have to read Painless to find out!
Find out what happens to Samantha, Christos, Romeo, Kamiko, Madison, Jake, and everyone else in Painless, the third and final volume of the series!
This book is full of surprises!!
Warning: Once again, the steam factor in Painless is much higher than in Fearless (book 1), but similar to Reckless (book 2).
Oh, and what about that hot hunk Christos Manos? When we last left him, his life balanced on the brink of disaster. What is going to happen to him?
You’ll have to read Painless to find out!
Find out what happens to Samantha, Christos, Romeo, Kamiko, Madison, Jake, and everyone else in Painless, the third and final volume of the series!
This book is full of surprises!!
Warning: Once again, the steam factor in Painless is much higher than in Fearless (book 1), but similar to Reckless (book 2).
502 pages, Unknown Binding
First published January 30, 2014
39 people are currently reading
1998 people want to read
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Devon Hartford
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
August 11, 2016
Ok, I have to say this.. Devon you out did yourself with this book! So with that in mind. you deserve this standing ovation!!!
I honestly think this is the best out of the series! I laughed, cried, and wanted to throw my tablet across the room so many times that I feared it's safety. lol.
I don't know how to review this book without giving any spoilers because there is so much that goes on. This book was the story of Samantha and Christos trying to learn how to have their relationship. How they delt with their problems and how they leaned on each other. Sometimes there was hiccups. But they got back on track. It seems like everyone had it out for these two. They couldn't catch a break for the life of them. The side characters didn't even seem like side characters. Devon gave them so much life you fell in love with them as well. Especially Christos's family. They were a HUGE part of this story. I think that as much as this story was about the relationship, I see a lot of relationships healing. There is a saying that "when everything is falling apart, it is actually falling together" That holds very true with this novel. I cannot recommend this book enough.
My emotions while reading this book..
Romeo:
Sam and Christos
At first I felt like
But then I felt like :)
Samantha's parents, Tiffany, & Hunter
Christos Grandfather and Dad
Steam factor
Ok enough of the pictures. You get the idea. Once again. This book is highly recommended!!
This book was generously given for an honest review. (ARC)
I honestly think this is the best out of the series! I laughed, cried, and wanted to throw my tablet across the room so many times that I feared it's safety. lol.
I don't know how to review this book without giving any spoilers because there is so much that goes on. This book was the story of Samantha and Christos trying to learn how to have their relationship. How they delt with their problems and how they leaned on each other. Sometimes there was hiccups. But they got back on track. It seems like everyone had it out for these two. They couldn't catch a break for the life of them. The side characters didn't even seem like side characters. Devon gave them so much life you fell in love with them as well. Especially Christos's family. They were a HUGE part of this story. I think that as much as this story was about the relationship, I see a lot of relationships healing. There is a saying that "when everything is falling apart, it is actually falling together" That holds very true with this novel. I cannot recommend this book enough.
My emotions while reading this book..
Romeo:
Sam and Christos
At first I felt like
But then I felt like :)
Samantha's parents, Tiffany, & Hunter
Christos Grandfather and Dad
Steam factor
Ok enough of the pictures. You get the idea. Once again. This book is highly recommended!!
This book was generously given for an honest review. (ARC)
August 1, 2015
omg I love this series so much its a shame it had to end but what a way to end I love christos,samantha,kamiko,madison,jake and of course the utterly brilliant Romeo.
It had the happily ever after this couple needed but I really want to see what happens to tiffany,nikolos and spridion.
Well deserves 5* and such a fantastic series of books keep up the good work devon :-)
It had the happily ever after this couple needed but I really want to see what happens to tiffany,nikolos and spridion.
Well deserves 5* and such a fantastic series of books keep up the good work devon :-)
May 15, 2014
It was ok. Not as good as the first two. And the end really didn't give me any satisfaction.
February 1, 2014
I received an ARC for an honest review
So first of all :
It started with a cliffhanger. I've been waiting like an eternity to see wether it's falling or falling apart or flying towards a happy future.
This book has an adapted ( and perfect ) rhythm. Ofourse you want to read it as quickly as you can, to know if Christos goes to jail or not, if he survives his dark mood on the edge of jumping or falling of that balcony. And eventhough the trial scenes are very good in their discription ( I smell some really good preparation/investigation from the writer here ) they read in a blink. It gets you to the edge of your seat, reading on and on and on. Your heart slammering in your chest, nails gone.
As a truly hooked fan of Christos & Sam, I was very happy to read the final court decision really soon in this book. And as always when a story gets to your gut, you want to know more, you don't want the story to end. There is so much more to know and read about these lovers & their friends.
Thankfully you get all of it. Their growing , their pains and laughs, their ups and downs. you get so many answers in this book.
I teared up when Christos talks with his dad Nikolos about art. The phrase : " what's been giving you grief" still does my eyes go watery. I teared up when Romeo showed his true colors. Insert some rainbowcolors, knowing there 's always rain before a rainbow. Yes, this is the side of Romeo I really like.
I teared up during the manos gallery show. Family is united, so much meaning behind it. I teared up when Christos & Sam crossed Nikolos and Spiridon walking down the hill while they hiked up. I teared up 'meeting ' Christos' mom.
But I laughed , snorted way much more. The humour is sometimes subtle - which I adore , sometimes typically Romeo-esque but is was so perfectly dosed, I loved it.
Note I do not use any Exclamation points, there for I speak the truth.
Every single book was so good, but I think this one is the best of the 3 in this series.
Every book in this series has earned my 5 stars. Painless earned 6 out of 5.
So first of all :
It started with a cliffhanger. I've been waiting like an eternity to see wether it's falling or falling apart or flying towards a happy future.
This book has an adapted ( and perfect ) rhythm. Ofourse you want to read it as quickly as you can, to know if Christos goes to jail or not, if he survives his dark mood on the edge of jumping or falling of that balcony. And eventhough the trial scenes are very good in their discription ( I smell some really good preparation/investigation from the writer here ) they read in a blink. It gets you to the edge of your seat, reading on and on and on. Your heart slammering in your chest, nails gone.
As a truly hooked fan of Christos & Sam, I was very happy to read the final court decision really soon in this book. And as always when a story gets to your gut, you want to know more, you don't want the story to end. There is so much more to know and read about these lovers & their friends.
Thankfully you get all of it. Their growing , their pains and laughs, their ups and downs. you get so many answers in this book.
I teared up when Christos talks with his dad Nikolos about art. The phrase : " what's been giving you grief" still does my eyes go watery. I teared up when Romeo showed his true colors. Insert some rainbowcolors, knowing there 's always rain before a rainbow. Yes, this is the side of Romeo I really like.
I teared up during the manos gallery show. Family is united, so much meaning behind it. I teared up when Christos & Sam crossed Nikolos and Spiridon walking down the hill while they hiked up. I teared up 'meeting ' Christos' mom.
But I laughed , snorted way much more. The humour is sometimes subtle - which I adore , sometimes typically Romeo-esque but is was so perfectly dosed, I loved it.
Note I do not use any Exclamation points, there for I speak the truth.
Every single book was so good, but I think this one is the best of the 3 in this series.
Every book in this series has earned my 5 stars. Painless earned 6 out of 5.
February 6, 2014
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Rating: Top Shelf Review by Guest Bartender Hayley
OMG I loved this series! After Fearless and Reckless, this is the third and final book in the series. You see how the characters progress and grow-up throughout this series. This book has Christos dealing with his weaknesses as he comes closer to his court date and goes head to head with Hunter Blakeley. This book has the return of all three Manos men, and what a handsome family they make. I loved Samantha, Christos, Kamiko, Jake, Madison and last, but not least, the fantastic Romeo, all adding their own twist on personalities.
Samantha's art career takes off, but there are bumps along the road.
I'm sad to see the end of this series, but I'm hoping Devon will do solo books for the story of Tiffany, Spiridon and Nikolos, as their background stories would be fantastic.
This series is so worth 5* and I would recommend bourbon, as it's Christos preferred drink of choice.
Rating: Top Shelf Review by Guest Bartender Hayley
OMG I loved this series! After Fearless and Reckless, this is the third and final book in the series. You see how the characters progress and grow-up throughout this series. This book has Christos dealing with his weaknesses as he comes closer to his court date and goes head to head with Hunter Blakeley. This book has the return of all three Manos men, and what a handsome family they make. I loved Samantha, Christos, Kamiko, Jake, Madison and last, but not least, the fantastic Romeo, all adding their own twist on personalities.
Samantha's art career takes off, but there are bumps along the road.
I'm sad to see the end of this series, but I'm hoping Devon will do solo books for the story of Tiffany, Spiridon and Nikolos, as their background stories would be fantastic.
This series is so worth 5* and I would recommend bourbon, as it's Christos preferred drink of choice.
February 8, 2014
After Fearless left me gasping, NOOOO!!! I was scared to read this installment. Yes, I counted down days to get my hands on this, but I was truly afraid of where Devon was taking us. After all the worrying, I was pleasantly surprised and once again amazed where the story took us. There is so much that happens in this book and it is truly difficult to give a review without giving away too much of the story.
Christos seems just too wise for his age at times, yet when it comes to decisions about him, he is still immature and makes poor choices. The wise side of him comes in when he realizes that he is making poor decisions and after some consideration and hard doses of reality decides that his poor decisions are not more important than the life he wants with Samantha. Once Christos realizes that he doesn’t have to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders, he is once again the loving, amazingly hot and talented Manos man we all fell in love with.
I had to keep reminding myself that Samantha is only nineteen years old. On some levels, I would see her as older, but there were so many times in this book when I was just groaning and yelling at my Kindle for her to “GROW UP ALL READY!!” Then I would remind myself that she is only nineteen. She does end up growing up a lot in this installment though. She has made the decision to become an artist and nothing is going to get in her way of that. I admire her determination in this, even when it would be easy to give in to her parents and when she realizes that it just isn’t easy getting funding for an education. If only she had as much determination in her relationship with Christos. She has grown in the relationship area, but it took her a long time to even grasp the concept that she is indeed living with Christos and she fears confrontation with him. She gets there eventually, just as Christos does, and the wait is so amazingly worth it.
Romeo once again had me in stitches. It is a rare occurrence when I actually laugh out loud to what I am reading, but when Romeo meets Tammy…..all bets were off. We see more of Romeo in this story and when his true story comes out, it makes so much more sense why Romeo’s personality is just so….Romeo.
We don’t see near as much Kamiko in this installment, but I like that. She wasn’t really all that relevant to this part of the storyline. It will however be interesting to see if Devon continues her story at another time, especially since she has finally met one of Christo’s friends.
This story introduces the character that will be the lead in the next book by Devon, and by the VERY FEW words she spoke, I am already in love with her. I can’t wait to see where that story goes and if she continues to be so bold in her vocalizations.
My favorite part of this whole story though was the underlying importance of family and making sure you are doing things that make you happy, not doing things that you think will make others happy. Family is so important and after a lot of struggles, the Manos men (all three of them), finally get their priorities in order and get that family in the right place. And as far as being happy, you can work all day long, but unless you are doing what you love and your heart is truly into what you are doing, you’re just not going to be happy. You are going to be left wondering what you are doing and why you are even doing it. This lesson is one that is hard learned by so many characters in this book.
And wait until you get to the end. Yes, I was sad to see the series end, but what a wonderfully beautiful way to end the series and bring closure to these characters we have learned to love.
All in all, it was the perfect ending to this chapter of these character’s lives.
Christos seems just too wise for his age at times, yet when it comes to decisions about him, he is still immature and makes poor choices. The wise side of him comes in when he realizes that he is making poor decisions and after some consideration and hard doses of reality decides that his poor decisions are not more important than the life he wants with Samantha. Once Christos realizes that he doesn’t have to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders, he is once again the loving, amazingly hot and talented Manos man we all fell in love with.
I had to keep reminding myself that Samantha is only nineteen years old. On some levels, I would see her as older, but there were so many times in this book when I was just groaning and yelling at my Kindle for her to “GROW UP ALL READY!!” Then I would remind myself that she is only nineteen. She does end up growing up a lot in this installment though. She has made the decision to become an artist and nothing is going to get in her way of that. I admire her determination in this, even when it would be easy to give in to her parents and when she realizes that it just isn’t easy getting funding for an education. If only she had as much determination in her relationship with Christos. She has grown in the relationship area, but it took her a long time to even grasp the concept that she is indeed living with Christos and she fears confrontation with him. She gets there eventually, just as Christos does, and the wait is so amazingly worth it.
Romeo once again had me in stitches. It is a rare occurrence when I actually laugh out loud to what I am reading, but when Romeo meets Tammy…..all bets were off. We see more of Romeo in this story and when his true story comes out, it makes so much more sense why Romeo’s personality is just so….Romeo.
We don’t see near as much Kamiko in this installment, but I like that. She wasn’t really all that relevant to this part of the storyline. It will however be interesting to see if Devon continues her story at another time, especially since she has finally met one of Christo’s friends.
This story introduces the character that will be the lead in the next book by Devon, and by the VERY FEW words she spoke, I am already in love with her. I can’t wait to see where that story goes and if she continues to be so bold in her vocalizations.
My favorite part of this whole story though was the underlying importance of family and making sure you are doing things that make you happy, not doing things that you think will make others happy. Family is so important and after a lot of struggles, the Manos men (all three of them), finally get their priorities in order and get that family in the right place. And as far as being happy, you can work all day long, but unless you are doing what you love and your heart is truly into what you are doing, you’re just not going to be happy. You are going to be left wondering what you are doing and why you are even doing it. This lesson is one that is hard learned by so many characters in this book.
And wait until you get to the end. Yes, I was sad to see the series end, but what a wonderfully beautiful way to end the series and bring closure to these characters we have learned to love.
All in all, it was the perfect ending to this chapter of these character’s lives.
January 30, 2014
******************MINOR SPOILERS****MINOR SPOILERS*********************
I was DYING for this book to come out after how Book two ended! Like are you kidding me,you end book two like that and then you make us wait MONTHS! That's just Evil Devon! SO as you can Imagine Book three picks back up right were book two ended,literally on that CLIFF hanger <-- get it? LOL.
So as we know Christos ran from Samantha afraid that he wasn't good enough for her after everything her parents had said. Which is SO wrong as they are perfect for each other! But with everything going on between the court date looming and her parents making it obvious that they don't think he's the right person for there girl,he can't take it and ends up at his and Samantha's spot.
Samantha is freaking out looking for him! Thinking he might do something stupid in the heat of the moment. But he doesn't. He's to much to live for with her. And the court date he's gonna rock. He won't let that ass that was shouting at Samantha take him down. He deserved that punch and to be took down a peg or two!
The thing is he never tell Samantha the reason why he is up in court. He just says its because he hit someone. SO she end's up having to work this all out herself! Seriously,why do men make things so complicated? But anyways she happen's to work it out herself! And thank god she does as you's will see for yourself's :)
So that's all there problems solved right? WRONG! The drama in this book still continues! If its not Samantha's horrid parents its that witch Tiffany trying to make her life hell. And boy does Tiffany go all out in this book. She takes her hatred to a WHOLE other level! We knew she wasn't playing with the full deck but this just show's how crazy and evil she can really get. Talk about getting revenge for giving her a mustache :D OH and throw in some drunk Jocks and a whole heap of money troubles and you've got yourself a drama party like no other. Between Samantha's growing college bills and Christos's money depleting everyday with law fee's the two of them are really stuck!
OH and I have to say this book has to be the funniest out of the three. I was literally laughing my ass off and getting some weird looks of people around me. BUT it was so worth it! I own that to Romeo,he takes his funnyness to a whole other level! The stuff he came out with was UNREAL! He's now gonna be my future husband. I don't care if he's Gay and fictional. I need him :D
Her friends are just as great in this one! I love the whole gang and I would LOVE it if they got there own Spin off books. Maybe if I bug the author enough he may just do that..... ;)
Hope everyone likes the book just as much as I did! Devon done a great job,and I for one can't wait to see what else he has up his sleeve :)
I was DYING for this book to come out after how Book two ended! Like are you kidding me,you end book two like that and then you make us wait MONTHS! That's just Evil Devon! SO as you can Imagine Book three picks back up right were book two ended,literally on that CLIFF hanger <-- get it? LOL.
So as we know Christos ran from Samantha afraid that he wasn't good enough for her after everything her parents had said. Which is SO wrong as they are perfect for each other! But with everything going on between the court date looming and her parents making it obvious that they don't think he's the right person for there girl,he can't take it and ends up at his and Samantha's spot.
Samantha is freaking out looking for him! Thinking he might do something stupid in the heat of the moment. But he doesn't. He's to much to live for with her. And the court date he's gonna rock. He won't let that ass that was shouting at Samantha take him down. He deserved that punch and to be took down a peg or two!
The thing is he never tell Samantha the reason why he is up in court. He just says its because he hit someone. SO she end's up having to work this all out herself! Seriously,why do men make things so complicated? But anyways she happen's to work it out herself! And thank god she does as you's will see for yourself's :)
So that's all there problems solved right? WRONG! The drama in this book still continues! If its not Samantha's horrid parents its that witch Tiffany trying to make her life hell. And boy does Tiffany go all out in this book. She takes her hatred to a WHOLE other level! We knew she wasn't playing with the full deck but this just show's how crazy and evil she can really get. Talk about getting revenge for giving her a mustache :D OH and throw in some drunk Jocks and a whole heap of money troubles and you've got yourself a drama party like no other. Between Samantha's growing college bills and Christos's money depleting everyday with law fee's the two of them are really stuck!
OH and I have to say this book has to be the funniest out of the three. I was literally laughing my ass off and getting some weird looks of people around me. BUT it was so worth it! I own that to Romeo,he takes his funnyness to a whole other level! The stuff he came out with was UNREAL! He's now gonna be my future husband. I don't care if he's Gay and fictional. I need him :D
Her friends are just as great in this one! I love the whole gang and I would LOVE it if they got there own Spin off books. Maybe if I bug the author enough he may just do that..... ;)
Hope everyone likes the book just as much as I did! Devon done a great job,and I for one can't wait to see what else he has up his sleeve :)
September 3, 2016
So, Painless is the third in a trilogy about Samantha Smith, budding artist. I'd suggest reading Fearless and Reckless first, to get the whole multi-dimensional technicolour effect.
Samantha Smith is in deep with Christos Manos, tattooed bad-boy artist. He's in deep with the law, and facing a prison sentence for punching a guy whilst defending Samantha. Will she lose him for four years to the prison system, or will he get away with it? You'll have to read it yourself to find out because there are no spoilers here!
Painless is the continuing story of Samantha's first year at university. She shares her highs and lows with the same crowd of sweethearts (Mads and Komiko) and nutjobs (Romeo). The main characters in this book are well written and three-dimensional. They work through their issues with credible choices, considering their respective ages. The cast of supporting characters is rich and well drawn. Sam can always turn to her friends for support and a little light relief.
Christos' vulnerability is shown more in this story. He's not necessarily the happy-go-lucky hottie with the world at his feet, and we see his issues here, warts and all.
Devon Hartford's writing has matured with Painless. It seems to flow better and really sets the scene of college kids in San Diego (I imagine, being neither a college kid or from San Diego). The whole book is an emotional work-out. Laughing one minute, tearing up the next, marvelling at how rotten some people can be (I'm looking at YOU, Samantha's mum!), and felling a little confused at someone's redemption. No spoilers.
Once again, the location is like an extra character in the novel, supplying fantastic coastline, balmy weather and a laid-back vibe.
I heartily recommend this series, with Painless as a suitably satisfying conclusion.
Samantha Smith is in deep with Christos Manos, tattooed bad-boy artist. He's in deep with the law, and facing a prison sentence for punching a guy whilst defending Samantha. Will she lose him for four years to the prison system, or will he get away with it? You'll have to read it yourself to find out because there are no spoilers here!
Painless is the continuing story of Samantha's first year at university. She shares her highs and lows with the same crowd of sweethearts (Mads and Komiko) and nutjobs (Romeo). The main characters in this book are well written and three-dimensional. They work through their issues with credible choices, considering their respective ages. The cast of supporting characters is rich and well drawn. Sam can always turn to her friends for support and a little light relief.
Christos' vulnerability is shown more in this story. He's not necessarily the happy-go-lucky hottie with the world at his feet, and we see his issues here, warts and all.
Devon Hartford's writing has matured with Painless. It seems to flow better and really sets the scene of college kids in San Diego (I imagine, being neither a college kid or from San Diego). The whole book is an emotional work-out. Laughing one minute, tearing up the next, marvelling at how rotten some people can be (I'm looking at YOU, Samantha's mum!), and felling a little confused at someone's redemption. No spoilers.
Once again, the location is like an extra character in the novel, supplying fantastic coastline, balmy weather and a laid-back vibe.
I heartily recommend this series, with Painless as a suitably satisfying conclusion.
February 15, 2014
Devon Hartford I think i'm in love with you. I know I am deeply and pasionately in love with entire series. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You for writing the most amazingly romantic stories I've ever read. The characters were perfect. Your description of them brought them to life on paper. And the way you describe the paintings and drawings was so perfect that I could actually see theM in my mind. I laughed out loud so hard at Romeo and kimiko's antics that I was screamimg crying. Then add in Sam, Christos, Madison, and Jake and it made it that much harder not to pee my pants. And then when you throw in the older generation Spirodon and Nickolos with their sharp wit, well it was absolutely insane. The secondary characters such as Tiffany,
Hunter, Mr.Childers, Russell, and Ms. Bitchinger, Lol, well they were such an integral part of this story. It just made it more complete. As for Sam's parents well if they were mine I would have told them to BITE ME! Lol. The suspence was so intence at times I was crying and didn't even know realise it. The sexual chemistry between Christos and Sam was so hot. I kept picturing the model on the front of your books as Christos and it got even hotter. WOW! give me a minute. WHOOO! The way he always called her agapi mou and the romantic thingS he would say to her was off the charts. and with the description of all the Manos men together well I don't know any woman who wouldn't be having hot flashes. I experienced such a plethora of emotions reading this but all of them were fantastic. This is a seriesr I'll never forget and will definitely be reading again. I extremely recommend this series to everyone. I can't wait to read more about all the others and I hope that we will still get to see more of Sam and Christos in the new books too. Thank You again Devon for a perfect ending to an amazing story. See you on facebook. TTFN.
Hunter, Mr.Childers, Russell, and Ms. Bitchinger, Lol, well they were such an integral part of this story. It just made it more complete. As for Sam's parents well if they were mine I would have told them to BITE ME! Lol. The suspence was so intence at times I was crying and didn't even know realise it. The sexual chemistry between Christos and Sam was so hot. I kept picturing the model on the front of your books as Christos and it got even hotter. WOW! give me a minute. WHOOO! The way he always called her agapi mou and the romantic thingS he would say to her was off the charts. and with the description of all the Manos men together well I don't know any woman who wouldn't be having hot flashes. I experienced such a plethora of emotions reading this but all of them were fantastic. This is a seriesr I'll never forget and will definitely be reading again. I extremely recommend this series to everyone. I can't wait to read more about all the others and I hope that we will still get to see more of Sam and Christos in the new books too. Thank You again Devon for a perfect ending to an amazing story. See you on facebook. TTFN.
February 26, 2014
I had to skim most of this as I just couldn't keep reading!!
The characters are just unbelievable and the dialogue.... Seriously who talks like that, please show me who because it was just ridiculous. I can't quite fathom why every man and his dog is in love with Sam apparently. She is immature, whiny and totally self centred. One second she is so self conscious and the next she thinks every man who talks to her must have a crush on her. A guy starts a conversation with her in class and she automatically assumes he is trying to hit on her.
The other characters are also just totally over the top. As someone who has a gay family member and a lot of gay friends I actually found Romeo's character insulting. It seemed to me like the author thought "ok well he is gay so every other word out of his mouth has to be about dicks, cocks or something to do with anal, oh and he has to hit on every single guy who speaks to him because you know that's what gay people do." I was disgusted that that's what this author seems to think of the gay community, if that's not what he thinks then fine but maybe he should have toned down the character a little bit because that's the impression he gave.
All in all I just kind of wished I hadn't read this. I enjoyed the first book but found myself skimming through some of the second and this final instalment I just thought was terrible.
The characters are just unbelievable and the dialogue.... Seriously who talks like that, please show me who because it was just ridiculous. I can't quite fathom why every man and his dog is in love with Sam apparently. She is immature, whiny and totally self centred. One second she is so self conscious and the next she thinks every man who talks to her must have a crush on her. A guy starts a conversation with her in class and she automatically assumes he is trying to hit on her.
The other characters are also just totally over the top. As someone who has a gay family member and a lot of gay friends I actually found Romeo's character insulting. It seemed to me like the author thought "ok well he is gay so every other word out of his mouth has to be about dicks, cocks or something to do with anal, oh and he has to hit on every single guy who speaks to him because you know that's what gay people do." I was disgusted that that's what this author seems to think of the gay community, if that's not what he thinks then fine but maybe he should have toned down the character a little bit because that's the impression he gave.
All in all I just kind of wished I hadn't read this. I enjoyed the first book but found myself skimming through some of the second and this final instalment I just thought was terrible.
February 4, 2014
Loved, loved, loved this book! I myself grew up in Coastal North County, and thoroughly enjoyed reading about Roberto's and the Belly Up and many other familiar hangouts mentioned in all three books.
But mostly I loved that the story revolved around love & art. I can't tell you how many times I swooned when Cristos was serenading Samantha with his love using his words and his art. My oh my. So many times I would re-read a paragraph and just melt every time. Such beautiful words. My favorite was definitely Cristos love Sonnet to Samantha... whoa. It was amazing!
My husband would look at me weird every time I just burst out laughing because of something Romeo would say. He was a kick in the pants. I just loved him! I loved all the characters.
I love that there will be a spin off with Victory Payne... can't wait!
There is so much more to this book than just the pretty cover. You.Must.Read.This.Book!
But mostly I loved that the story revolved around love & art. I can't tell you how many times I swooned when Cristos was serenading Samantha with his love using his words and his art. My oh my. So many times I would re-read a paragraph and just melt every time. Such beautiful words. My favorite was definitely Cristos love Sonnet to Samantha... whoa. It was amazing!
My husband would look at me weird every time I just burst out laughing because of something Romeo would say. He was a kick in the pants. I just loved him! I loved all the characters.
I love that there will be a spin off with Victory Payne... can't wait!
There is so much more to this book than just the pretty cover. You.Must.Read.This.Book!
February 3, 2014
Oh my goodness... well, where do I start ...
Was completely hooked at Fearless (book 1)
Couldn’t wait for book 2 (Reckless)– read in 2 days (sorry family!!)
and just completed Painless (book 3)....
Totally worth the wait - Devon, you are a genius :-)
Fantastic characters and a brilliant story line. Super-sexy reformed bad boy Christos, super shy and timid Sam. Antha, flamboyant, hysterical Romeo and side-kick Kamiko and best mate Madison … to name but a few - never a dull moment!
Story really tugs at your heart-strings and other parts will make you blush .... am currently scouring the internet for a "grow my own Christos" ... hoping this will be on the shelves in time for Valentines Day where I intend to take him to a local beauty spot …. with a bench :-)
So looking forward to reading much more by this very talented and equally handsome author!
Defo five gold stars from me !
Agapi mou
Was completely hooked at Fearless (book 1)
Couldn’t wait for book 2 (Reckless)– read in 2 days (sorry family!!)
and just completed Painless (book 3)....
Totally worth the wait - Devon, you are a genius :-)
Fantastic characters and a brilliant story line. Super-sexy reformed bad boy Christos, super shy and timid Sam. Antha, flamboyant, hysterical Romeo and side-kick Kamiko and best mate Madison … to name but a few - never a dull moment!
Story really tugs at your heart-strings and other parts will make you blush .... am currently scouring the internet for a "grow my own Christos" ... hoping this will be on the shelves in time for Valentines Day where I intend to take him to a local beauty spot …. with a bench :-)
So looking forward to reading much more by this very talented and equally handsome author!
Defo five gold stars from me !
Agapi mou
February 4, 2014
So....I was so happy when my email dinged with my ARC of this book. For some reason, I didn't know that I was going to get a copy, but I'm super glad that I did. I've read this series from the beginning and have thoroughly enjoyed it. I've loved the characters and hated them. I've wanted to punch them in the face and hug them. When Reckless ended with that major cliffhanger, I was so mad! I totally hate cliffhangers, so I was so happy Painless picked up pretty much where Reckless left off. It was a great ending to a story that was so enjoyable. This book was filled with drama, which only helped produce a fantastic story. I loved the characters and how well they went together. My hope is that maybe there will be a spin-off of this series about the other characters. I definitely recommend that you pick up these books!
February 5, 2014
This series is AMAZING!!!! Devon Hartford really knocked it out of the park for his first published work and romance at that!! I fell in love with the story and all it characters from the very beginning.
With the cliffhanger in Reckless I could not stop thinking about this story, Painless did not disappoint. I cried, I was on the edge of my seat and laughed my ass off many time while reading this book. How could anyone not love the interaction of all the characters? Let's face it everyone needs a little Romeo in their lives. I am very happy with the ending of Christos and Sam's story and look forward to getting a better look at the secondary characters of this series. The possibilities are truly endless.
With the cliffhanger in Reckless I could not stop thinking about this story, Painless did not disappoint. I cried, I was on the edge of my seat and laughed my ass off many time while reading this book. How could anyone not love the interaction of all the characters? Let's face it everyone needs a little Romeo in their lives. I am very happy with the ending of Christos and Sam's story and look forward to getting a better look at the secondary characters of this series. The possibilities are truly endless.
February 1, 2014
I'm not a writer so my review will be short.
You MUST read this & all books in this trilogy, please read in order.
Devon found a way to show that a young man who at first glance seems to be a womanizing, arrogant, a******e. In all actuality a very sweet, loving & completely loyal man.
While reading Painless the range of my emotions was off the charts. I laughed, I cried, I felt anger, but most of all. I felt love. I
My prayer now is that with so many characters with such depth, thst Devon will continue with this story. I don't mind which one he chooses I only ask..... Please always add a little Christos & Samantha. My love of these books is
cray cray.
You MUST read this & all books in this trilogy, please read in order.
Devon found a way to show that a young man who at first glance seems to be a womanizing, arrogant, a******e. In all actuality a very sweet, loving & completely loyal man.
While reading Painless the range of my emotions was off the charts. I laughed, I cried, I felt anger, but most of all. I felt love. I
My prayer now is that with so many characters with such depth, thst Devon will continue with this story. I don't mind which one he chooses I only ask..... Please always add a little Christos & Samantha. My love of these books is
cray cray.
Read
February 1, 2014Wow!!!!
I just finished reading painless and let me tell you I'm am so sad to say goodbye to christos and sam. what an amazing book and series!! the story lined sucked me right in from the beginning and held on tight. I almost had to hide in my bedroom to read because I had that goofy sappy smile while reading and my family was making fun of me. Devon Hartford you are an amazing author and brought all the characters to life and gave them all such different personalities but they all came together with compassion,whit and love and made you feel connected to them all..can't wait for the next book
I just finished reading painless and let me tell you I'm am so sad to say goodbye to christos and sam. what an amazing book and series!! the story lined sucked me right in from the beginning and held on tight. I almost had to hide in my bedroom to read because I had that goofy sappy smile while reading and my family was making fun of me. Devon Hartford you are an amazing author and brought all the characters to life and gave them all such different personalities but they all came together with compassion,whit and love and made you feel connected to them all..can't wait for the next book
January 27, 2014
Thank you Devon for allowing me to be a Beta reader. Once again you did not disappoint. I wish I could give you 6 stars, it was AMAZING!!
Picked it up as with Reckless and Fearless and never put it down until I finished and then I was sad. Very sad that there wasn't another 499 pages.
I had a smile on my face all the way through, even though at times I cried for Agapi mou.
Can't wait for more.
Picked it up as with Reckless and Fearless and never put it down until I finished and then I was sad. Very sad that there wasn't another 499 pages.
I had a smile on my face all the way through, even though at times I cried for Agapi mou.
Can't wait for more.
January 31, 2014
I will admit I wasn't sure what to expect after the way book 2 ended. I was pleasantly surprised by all the twists and turns. There were a lot of twists that I just didn't see coming! I was so distracted by the story I kept having to remind myself I was looking for typos! There were also some new characters introduced that were very intriguing! I can't wait for Victory's story. I thought I would be jonesing for Tiffany's - but just the quick scene with Victory had me hooked!!!!!
February 2, 2014
Wow, an eagerly awaited 3rd book in this series. The story did not cease to keep me gripped. The books were written in a way that made me feel like I personally knew the characters and shared their stress, trauma, anxiety and happiness. There was a bit in the middle when I was wondering where it was going or what was the point, but that soon passed and the end was fantastic. Although I am eagerly awaiting the 4th instalment.
February 7, 2014
Wow just when i thought my knickers ( panties) couldn't get any wetter, i was wrong! First two books were amazing this one was epic, very realistic sex scenes even down to the squishy mess! This book made me roll my eyes, fall in love, get angry, cry, feel sad, feel happy it was one emotional roller coaster one i would happily ride on again and again.
February 7, 2014
So glad to have found and read all 3 books but equally sad to have finished.
A fantastic sexy love story with lots of twists,turns and humour along the way.
The outstanding thing for me is that the author is male! How lovely is that?
Devon thank you so much for my ARC,I await with baited breath for the next instalment from you.
A fantastic sexy love story with lots of twists,turns and humour along the way.
The outstanding thing for me is that the author is male! How lovely is that?
Devon thank you so much for my ARC,I await with baited breath for the next instalment from you.
February 9, 2014
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. This was a really good book. It was a little difficult to start and stop because you wanted to read straight thru. But really enjoyed the interactions throughout this book and how you never really knew which way things were going to go next.
February 8, 2014
I was really excited to read the conclusion of Christos and Sam's story, though I hate to see it end. I laughed. I cried. I fanned myself (quite a bit). As always, Devon doesn't disappoint. Great read.
February 6, 2014
Alright, I already know people are going to hate my review!
Here I go...
This is a hard book to rate for me. For over half the book I was disappointed. At times, part of the story would really move me. Yet these times were so infrequent. There was a lot of filler that was meant to be entertaining but I found irritating. It wasn't until I was 70% into the book before I started enjoying the read. Then the last part of the book blew me away. We finally got substance to the story. Then the ending???? I was in tears.
Random thoughts... Tiffany is a crazy B!tch but in a good way. Romeo was just annoying but loved when his wall dropped. Sam really acted her young 19 years of age for most of the book. What is Brandon' s deal???? The Manos men are the coolest ever!!! I so want to know the model for the book covers for this series... HOT!
To help understand my rating, below are some of my thoughts while reading. Minor spoilers are below!!!!!!!!!!!
At 10%…
Alright I know that I'm only 10% into this book but I'm already disappointed. We are right back to where we spent most of the last book. Secrets when there doesn't have to be!!!
My review at 53%
I'm bored. Yes, Christos is an extremely hot guy but, the story is kind of predictable. You have a general idea for what is going to happen. And I want strong, confident Christos back!!!!!!!!
Update at 57%
OMG, really?? How long did we need to read about a red slash?? Is she really that stupid??
Update at 66%…
Well the book started to become really enjoyable until the corny and immaturity began... Adam and Eve, really?? A pointless section about a pirate???? WTH
At 69%…
Off on another tangent...crotch notches and stupid Viking helmets...
Yes another update so soon...at 71%…
Have to give props when props are due.. loved what I just read. Wonderful memories from the Manos men.
Gotta throw out another prop...82%…homerun with the kio and Dillon!!
Here I go...
This is a hard book to rate for me. For over half the book I was disappointed. At times, part of the story would really move me. Yet these times were so infrequent. There was a lot of filler that was meant to be entertaining but I found irritating. It wasn't until I was 70% into the book before I started enjoying the read. Then the last part of the book blew me away. We finally got substance to the story. Then the ending???? I was in tears.
Random thoughts... Tiffany is a crazy B!tch but in a good way. Romeo was just annoying but loved when his wall dropped. Sam really acted her young 19 years of age for most of the book. What is Brandon' s deal???? The Manos men are the coolest ever!!! I so want to know the model for the book covers for this series... HOT!
To help understand my rating, below are some of my thoughts while reading. Minor spoilers are below!!!!!!!!!!!
At 10%…
Alright I know that I'm only 10% into this book but I'm already disappointed. We are right back to where we spent most of the last book. Secrets when there doesn't have to be!!!
My review at 53%
I'm bored. Yes, Christos is an extremely hot guy but, the story is kind of predictable. You have a general idea for what is going to happen. And I want strong, confident Christos back!!!!!!!!
Update at 57%
OMG, really?? How long did we need to read about a red slash?? Is she really that stupid??
Update at 66%…
Well the book started to become really enjoyable until the corny and immaturity began... Adam and Eve, really?? A pointless section about a pirate???? WTH
At 69%…
Off on another tangent...crotch notches and stupid Viking helmets...
Yes another update so soon...at 71%…
Have to give props when props are due.. loved what I just read. Wonderful memories from the Manos men.
Gotta throw out another prop...82%…homerun with the kio and Dillon!!
April 3, 2014
Copy provided by Author for Honest Review
After the second book I will admit I was hesitant to start this. In fact all the characters were just pissing me off and I saw no hope for them. But the third book was actually a decent wrap-up of the series.
It carried the typical third book ideals and tried to answer as many story-lines as possible. I was glad Adonis was able to overcome his issues and learn to lean more on Sam as she does with him.
I still had issues with the overdone Romeo and the whacky, often ludicrous tangents they would go off on but at least this time he had someone to focus attention on.
I was not surprised to see a different side of Tiffany. Sure she is still #1 bitch of he century but there's always a reason and we finally learn, not that she redeemed herself in my eyes, I still would hit her with my car but it does explain why she hates Sam so much.
The best part of the book was Adonis's family. Both his father and grandfather play huge roles in this story and it was good to see them more active as characters. Love, Love, Loved the portrait story-lines, from Christos and Sam to his father and grandfather.
Overall I was pleased with the wrap-up of this series. I don't know if three books was totally necessary but it works. None were overly draggy or filled with fluff. The art aspect that carried the first book really takes over the plot in this book and it made it so much more visual. Wonderful ending...
After the second book I will admit I was hesitant to start this. In fact all the characters were just pissing me off and I saw no hope for them. But the third book was actually a decent wrap-up of the series.
It carried the typical third book ideals and tried to answer as many story-lines as possible. I was glad Adonis was able to overcome his issues and learn to lean more on Sam as she does with him.
I still had issues with the overdone Romeo and the whacky, often ludicrous tangents they would go off on but at least this time he had someone to focus attention on.
I was not surprised to see a different side of Tiffany. Sure she is still #1 bitch of he century but there's always a reason and we finally learn, not that she redeemed herself in my eyes, I still would hit her with my car but it does explain why she hates Sam so much.
The best part of the book was Adonis's family. Both his father and grandfather play huge roles in this story and it was good to see them more active as characters. Love, Love, Loved the portrait story-lines, from Christos and Sam to his father and grandfather.
Overall I was pleased with the wrap-up of this series. I don't know if three books was totally necessary but it works. None were overly draggy or filled with fluff. The art aspect that carried the first book really takes over the plot in this book and it made it so much more visual. Wonderful ending...
February 18, 2014
Book 2 left me with a cliff hanger that made me want to scream NOOOOO! There is no doubt that Devon is truly creative, and that his heart and sole goes in to his work. WHAT TRILOGY! whooooooooooooo! From the start the book sucks you in, you wont want to put it down from start to finish! There is nothing predictable about this book, other than that you know it is going to be beautifully written!
What I did like about this book (I did not expect) was the input of new characters, 'their friends' this for me made it really interesting,I would love to read a spin off book based on the girl with the guitar!
That had me interested; hooked in!! I would like more please. I love how we got the happy ending for Sam and Christos, a nice clear ending! not with out the array of love, laughter , sadness and anger these books touch on every emotion that is written in the book for each character, and you can easily connect to them, how Devon gets this over is incredible! WOW WHAT A CHANGE OF PERSONALITY FOR TIFFANY! WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT!!! I NEVER SAW THAT ONE COMING!! I was flawed! I never in a million years saw that one coming!
however, I was pleased with the sweet ending and epilogue , i personally like these as they allow the reader put closure to the story and the characters involved, leaving room for new book releases based on their friends ******FINGERS CROSSED******
Thank you Devon for a beautiful, well written trilogy
What I did like about this book (I did not expect) was the input of new characters, 'their friends' this for me made it really interesting,I would love to read a spin off book based on the girl with the guitar!
That had me interested; hooked in!! I would like more please. I love how we got the happy ending for Sam and Christos, a nice clear ending! not with out the array of love, laughter , sadness and anger these books touch on every emotion that is written in the book for each character, and you can easily connect to them, how Devon gets this over is incredible! WOW WHAT A CHANGE OF PERSONALITY FOR TIFFANY! WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT!!! I NEVER SAW THAT ONE COMING!! I was flawed! I never in a million years saw that one coming!
however, I was pleased with the sweet ending and epilogue , i personally like these as they allow the reader put closure to the story and the characters involved, leaving room for new book releases based on their friends ******FINGERS CROSSED******
Thank you Devon for a beautiful, well written trilogy
February 25, 2014
Is it terrible that I when I got about 75% done with this book I put it down more than once just because I did not want it to end, finished it while sitting at the tattoo shop getting some work done, I was so deep into the story that it totally distracted me from the pain. I absolutely love every one of these characters and already miss them. Sam and Christos relationship really grew into something amazing in this book. I was very happy that Devon shared that Sam was able to start to mend her relationship with her parents as they started to view her as an adult and no longer as a child they could control. This book was just as great as the first two and I hope that Devon decides to do a spin off and tell some of the other characters stories.. reading more about Tiffany or Romeo or Kamiko would be great!! I have been highly recommending this series to anyone that will listen to me :)
March 17, 2014
What can I say? Devon has pulled it out the bag! 3 books with a perfect 5 star rating. I love the spin on Justin. GIVE ME THATB STORY... Or I will come to your house :P I appreciate the wrap up on the ending. Samantha ended up being the strong girl I pegged her for in book one. (Knew you had it in you D) Christos is the dream I want to live. The Koi Brandumbs were the best and even Kamieko got her guy. THE PERFECT ONE FOR HER. Which is another story I want!!!! AND I want those right after V. Payne !!!! Bring on the rockers and Let Christos wear SAS out for a bit! Good job Devon Hartford. . . BTW. . . who bought Romeo's wonky kong???? Notice I did not throat punch you in this review ;)
February 3, 2015
this book is amazing!!!! I can't believe how much Sam and Christos went through in such little time but still loved
each other through everything between him being her mentor, to full time painter, models who desperately want a piece of him, one main model who will stop at nothing to put a wedge between Sam and Christos, and his demons from his past that seem to want to destroy him at every turn and he fears there's no way out.. I'm completely excited and hope to read more about the other characters and keep Christos and Sam involved through it all! :) the best series ever!
I wish I had my own sexy bad boy artist!
each other through everything between him being her mentor, to full time painter, models who desperately want a piece of him, one main model who will stop at nothing to put a wedge between Sam and Christos, and his demons from his past that seem to want to destroy him at every turn and he fears there's no way out.. I'm completely excited and hope to read more about the other characters and keep Christos and Sam involved through it all! :) the best series ever!
I wish I had my own sexy bad boy artist!
February 18, 2014
Devon has done it again, he has shown that men can write romance.
Painless picks up where Fearless #2 left off. Will Christos think before he acts, will Samantha be able to continue her Art degree? Christos and Samantha's relationship goes on another wild ride. This is a must read, if you haven't read Painless #1 or Fearless#2 what are you waiting for.
This story will definitely make you laugh, cry and say WHAT?? are you talking about Romeo :).
I can't wait for more reads from Deveon Hartford, has been added to my watch list.
Painless picks up where Fearless #2 left off. Will Christos think before he acts, will Samantha be able to continue her Art degree? Christos and Samantha's relationship goes on another wild ride. This is a must read, if you haven't read Painless #1 or Fearless#2 what are you waiting for.
This story will definitely make you laugh, cry and say WHAT?? are you talking about Romeo :).
I can't wait for more reads from Deveon Hartford, has been added to my watch list.
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