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Lifeless #2
My Beautiful
It has been eight months since Scarlett Moore last saw Kade Evans. After being left hurt and confused she tried to forget about him, but he wasn’t easy to forget. She found herself thinking about him often. Even her best friend Jules did her best to get him off her mind by pushing her toward Bryce, the one person Scarlett was not sure she wanted to be involved with. When a new job opportunity is offered to her and Jules, they jump on it. The idea of starting over again and forgetting the past is enticing to Scarlett even if it moves her to Los Angeles, the same place Kade lives.
Kade Evans’ life revolved around his band, alcohol, drugs, and women…until he met Scarlett. She is the light to his darkness, his beautiful; the one that makes him see what the future might hold. That is, until his past came barreling back into his life, ruining everything. Hurting her was the last thing he wanted to do, but he did what he had to do to protect her. His plan is to find a way out of his new life before he tries to win her heart back. But life has a plan of its own and unexpectedly, Scarlett walks back into his life.
When they meet again, the fire she thought burned out is reignited and the plans he made are rearranged.
Just when things start to fall into place, they all seem to fall apart and the one person they think they can trust turns out to be the one to hurt them the most.
Kade Evans’ life revolved around his band, alcohol, drugs, and women…until he met Scarlett. She is the light to his darkness, his beautiful; the one that makes him see what the future might hold. That is, until his past came barreling back into his life, ruining everything. Hurting her was the last thing he wanted to do, but he did what he had to do to protect her. His plan is to find a way out of his new life before he tries to win her heart back. But life has a plan of its own and unexpectedly, Scarlett walks back into his life.
When they meet again, the fire she thought burned out is reignited and the plans he made are rearranged.
Just when things start to fall into place, they all seem to fall apart and the one person they think they can trust turns out to be the one to hurt them the most.
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 16, 2013
16 people are currently reading
1038 people want to read
About the author
J.M. LaRocca
10 books477 followersI've had a passion for reading and writing for as long as I can remember. It has always been an escape for one reason or another. Now, I'm taking that passion and turning it into a book. My debut book Lifeless will be released late summer 2013. I can't wait for you to read this story that has been brewing in my head for over a year. :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
November 25, 2013
4.5 What's In A Name? Stars
This is the sequel to Lifeless. Do not read this review or the book until you have read Lifeless. I'm not kidding.
Potato..Patato. Tomato...Tomato. A rose by any other name and all that jazz. What's in a name? Would I be a different person if I was named something other than Beth. Pretty standard baby boomer name. Right up there with Linda, Debbie and Cindy. The characters in this book change names like most people change underwear. Try to keep up.
...don't call me Nick. My name is Kade....I'll call you as I please. You name is Nick and that's what I'll call you.
When we last left Scarlett she was being kissed by her step-brother Bryce in a WTF Ending to end all WTF Endings. That's just the beginning of this wild ride.
Kade is a rocker who is taking a sabbatical to work on his new career as a mobster. Yep, you got that right. Mobster. A reluctant mobster. He has moved to California breaking Scarlett's heart.
Scarlett's job takes her to Cali also. She tries to avoid Kade, but you know that's not going to happen. Where would be the fun in that? Scarlett and Kade collide again in a spectacular explosion of Oh Baby and Hell Yeah.
I need you. I've never needed anything more.
But the reasons they split in the first place are still there. The dangers. The mob. The secrets. The name changes. The kissing step-brothers. Now add in guns and money and our sweet couple is in deep do-do.
The hurt, pain, what ifs and could bes didn't exist in that moment.
Well they matter a lot in the light of day. There lots that matter. Like kidnappings, extortion, skanky women, manipulative uncles and sexy Aussies. And the names? Well, lets just say Kade is not the only one with a second set of monogrammed towels. There are several characters that are not who you thought they were. Not in name or character. Reader beware. But definitely be a reader.
This is the sequel to Lifeless. Do not read this review or the book until you have read Lifeless. I'm not kidding.
Potato..Patato. Tomato...Tomato. A rose by any other name and all that jazz. What's in a name? Would I be a different person if I was named something other than Beth. Pretty standard baby boomer name. Right up there with Linda, Debbie and Cindy. The characters in this book change names like most people change underwear. Try to keep up.
...don't call me Nick. My name is Kade....I'll call you as I please. You name is Nick and that's what I'll call you.
When we last left Scarlett she was being kissed by her step-brother Bryce in a WTF Ending to end all WTF Endings. That's just the beginning of this wild ride.
Kade is a rocker who is taking a sabbatical to work on his new career as a mobster. Yep, you got that right. Mobster. A reluctant mobster. He has moved to California breaking Scarlett's heart.
Scarlett's job takes her to Cali also. She tries to avoid Kade, but you know that's not going to happen. Where would be the fun in that? Scarlett and Kade collide again in a spectacular explosion of Oh Baby and Hell Yeah.
I need you. I've never needed anything more.
But the reasons they split in the first place are still there. The dangers. The mob. The secrets. The name changes. The kissing step-brothers. Now add in guns and money and our sweet couple is in deep do-do.
The hurt, pain, what ifs and could bes didn't exist in that moment.
Well they matter a lot in the light of day. There lots that matter. Like kidnappings, extortion, skanky women, manipulative uncles and sexy Aussies. And the names? Well, lets just say Kade is not the only one with a second set of monogrammed towels. There are several characters that are not who you thought they were. Not in name or character. Reader beware. But definitely be a reader.
April 21, 2014
2 stars
Umm...
I'm sad to say this was not what I expected. The direction this book took was weird, and I just didn't connect to the characters. The reunion was rushed, and I just wasn't satisfied. I was so excited for this book that maybe I built it up to something it couldn't be. So unfortunately it didn't work for me.
I still love the first in this series, but this wasn't for me.
Umm...
I'm sad to say this was not what I expected. The direction this book took was weird, and I just didn't connect to the characters. The reunion was rushed, and I just wasn't satisfied. I was so excited for this book that maybe I built it up to something it couldn't be. So unfortunately it didn't work for me.
I still love the first in this series, but this wasn't for me.
August 3, 2015
******★★★★4 STARS*******
"You made me want to be a better person,
and I am because of you.
You've made me feel things I hadn't felt in so long,
and I love you so much for it.
All of it scared the hell out of me,
but now I know....
......You're MY BEAUTIFUL".
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
It's live!!! ;D
January 9, 2014
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
Rating: 4.5 Stars
If the first book had been intense, sexual and filled with mystery – the second book? Hold on into your e-readers, as J.M. La Rocca takes us in for one wild ride into the dangerous world of Kade Evans.
KADE EVANS, what have you gotten yourself into?!
The first book ended with me wondering what in the world Kade Evans has been hiding. His world had previously revolve around his band, alcohol, drugs and women until Scarlett. He was everything to her, and he hated to see her go. But to save her from his past and from the danger that surrounds him, he must break her heart first. He promised himself that after he settled everything, he would win her back once again. He went on hiatus and focused on what needs to be done. He didn’t like it, but he needed to do it if he wanted to put his past aside and move on with his life. But his plans had a sudden turn when Scarlett strutted back into his life, more beautiful than ever.
EIGHT MONTHS, it has been eight long excruciating months since Scarlett saw Kade. After his betrayal, she had tried to move on and forget about him. It had been quite a task. Her thoughts often went into his direction. It didn’t even help when her best friend Jules tries to push her towards Bryce. Then a new opportunity came in, when she was transferred to LA. It would give her a new beginning. She can start over once again. But one evening, she bumped into the last person she expected to see, Kade Evans.
I loved this more than I loved the first book – because it is jam-packed with action and suspense, and of course, gets you all hot and bothered with all the steamy scenes – indeed, make-up sex is still the best there is. It’s good to see the old characters back here – especially Jules who seemed to have a problem of her own but it didn’t made her less a friend to Scarlett. She was still supportive of her.
I was relentlessly on the edge of my seat – suffering from one twist to another, unable to put down my e-reader of the fear I might miss something out. I didn’t know who the real enemy is, or whom to trust. Unforeseen friends, betrayals, and reunion – just as when I thought I got it figured out, I found myself in constant awe.
★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
January 9, 2014
I have to say this series blew me away! My Beautiful is the second book in the lifeless series. This is a series you need to read in order and let me tell you the first book ends with a cliffhanger! By now some know how much I hate cliff hangers :)! Thank GOODNESS I had the second one and could jump right in. You will devour this story. I read both of these books in 2 days!!! That says alot because I have a full time job and 2 young kiddos so needless to say I neglected them for a while!! I couldn't put them down! The first book was Lifeless and you meet Scarlett and Kade and go through there journey.
You have Scarlett a girl who was raised by a mother who was an alcholic and drug abuser. Her father left her when she was just a child and she hated him for it because he left there family for another woman. All she has in this world is her best friend Jules and her job. In the first book you see how Scarlett thought she was in love with Trey who she dated for about 5 month's. She was all wrong about him, he was married and having a baby and she found out by a text message that she saw on his phone when they were on vacation together. She was devistated and it took about 4 month's for her friend to finally get her out of the house again and thats when she met Kade, she didn't know who he was at the time but she soon found out that he was a big rock star and one dance with her and she was lost in him and he walked away and she thought she would never see him again. Little did she know that Kade knew exactly who she was and would see her again very soon.
Kade, OH KADE! He is the total epitomy of sex on a stick! He is a rock star with a alcohol and drug problem he is a liability in this new movie he is filming and needs insurance and every where he goes turns him down, but he finds a company that will insure him. While researching they have pics of the agents on there website and he is instantly drawn to Scarlett. He can't believe when he goes to the club the night before the big meeting he see's her there and he can't keep his eyes off her and has to dance with her.
In the first book Lifeless you see Kade and Scarlett learn about eachother and fight the want that is pulling them together. Kade has a very shady past that will break him and Scarlett apart -and his name really isn't Kade either, the first book has some steamy hot scenes and it ends with a huge cliffhanger of Kade walking away from his present life to deal with his shady past to save Scarlett.
This book my beautiful, wow it throws you some major twists and turns. Scarlett is heartbroken and scared for her life because of Kade. She also learns more about her fathers life and why he left her and she has a new step brother Bryce to deal with now too, he was in the first book for a short period of time but is one of the main characters in the second book. I don't want to give any spoilers but hell Kades past really creeps up and destroys everything they have but does everything work out in the end? Who is Kade involved with that he has to put his career on hold? Will his band members stick around and wait for him to deal with this part of his life? Will Scarlett ever forgive him for walking away? You really need to read both of these books there is so much I could keep typing about because it truely is a great story! But Im going to end with saying this isn't your typical love story but it is worth it in the end to see what happens believe me! 5 big stars from me!
You have Scarlett a girl who was raised by a mother who was an alcholic and drug abuser. Her father left her when she was just a child and she hated him for it because he left there family for another woman. All she has in this world is her best friend Jules and her job. In the first book you see how Scarlett thought she was in love with Trey who she dated for about 5 month's. She was all wrong about him, he was married and having a baby and she found out by a text message that she saw on his phone when they were on vacation together. She was devistated and it took about 4 month's for her friend to finally get her out of the house again and thats when she met Kade, she didn't know who he was at the time but she soon found out that he was a big rock star and one dance with her and she was lost in him and he walked away and she thought she would never see him again. Little did she know that Kade knew exactly who she was and would see her again very soon.
Kade, OH KADE! He is the total epitomy of sex on a stick! He is a rock star with a alcohol and drug problem he is a liability in this new movie he is filming and needs insurance and every where he goes turns him down, but he finds a company that will insure him. While researching they have pics of the agents on there website and he is instantly drawn to Scarlett. He can't believe when he goes to the club the night before the big meeting he see's her there and he can't keep his eyes off her and has to dance with her.
In the first book Lifeless you see Kade and Scarlett learn about eachother and fight the want that is pulling them together. Kade has a very shady past that will break him and Scarlett apart -and his name really isn't Kade either, the first book has some steamy hot scenes and it ends with a huge cliffhanger of Kade walking away from his present life to deal with his shady past to save Scarlett.
This book my beautiful, wow it throws you some major twists and turns. Scarlett is heartbroken and scared for her life because of Kade. She also learns more about her fathers life and why he left her and she has a new step brother Bryce to deal with now too, he was in the first book for a short period of time but is one of the main characters in the second book. I don't want to give any spoilers but hell Kades past really creeps up and destroys everything they have but does everything work out in the end? Who is Kade involved with that he has to put his career on hold? Will his band members stick around and wait for him to deal with this part of his life? Will Scarlett ever forgive him for walking away? You really need to read both of these books there is so much I could keep typing about because it truely is a great story! But Im going to end with saying this isn't your typical love story but it is worth it in the end to see what happens believe me! 5 big stars from me!
January 6, 2014
This story has romance, a rock star, suspense, and a twist.
I have a problem sometimes when the heroine has BFFs that they listen to every word. I wish the heroine; Scarlett would not talk to her BFF, Jules, about everything in her life. Also, she would think about what Jules would think/say in a situation instead of thinking for herself. It was a little too much at time.
There were some parts of the book that could have been executed better. Some of the scenes I felt were forced between Kade and Scarlett. I think it was the verbiage that felt out of place and awkward. However, the last 10% of the book was very well written. The cliffy was the type I love so it made me want to read the second book in the series.
A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I have a problem sometimes when the heroine has BFFs that they listen to every word. I wish the heroine; Scarlett would not talk to her BFF, Jules, about everything in her life. Also, she would think about what Jules would think/say in a situation instead of thinking for herself. It was a little too much at time.
There were some parts of the book that could have been executed better. Some of the scenes I felt were forced between Kade and Scarlett. I think it was the verbiage that felt out of place and awkward. However, the last 10% of the book was very well written. The cliffy was the type I love so it made me want to read the second book in the series.
A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2014
I feel like everyone in this book was dumb(no common sense) except the bad guys (paul and frank) and even in the end they were a bunch of mushy goobers.
*shrugs* you win some, you lose some.
*shrugs* you win some, you lose some.
July 21, 2014
3.5 Beautiful Stars
January 11, 2014
4 1/2 Stars
When My Beautiful first begins 8 months has passed since the ending of Lifeless where Scarlett was left broken hearted not really knowing the real Kade. After being pushed aside by a man she was falling fast for she packs up and moves to California with her best friend to help run a new office her company is opening in Los Angeles. It turns out that it’s a small world and Scarlett’s path and new adventure will bring her front and center to Kade; the man who not only stole her heart but in the same breath broke it into a million pieces.
I loved this book because not only did it give me the smut and naughty stuff that I crave so much in the novels I read it also gave me angst. Danger and suspense hid around every corner. Not everyone is who they seem to be. J.M. will take you on a roller coaster ride with this one. It’s like a real life game of Clue of who did it, with what, to whom, and why. All your questions and some that you may not have even thought about will be answered by the time you finish this book.
Kade is still sexy and dirty talking Kade but I think in My Beautiful we get to see a much softer side of him. You get to know the real man underneath the hard exterior, the man that will stop at nothing to protect Scarlett from any harm coming her way. Part of him is broken because the two things that he held closest to his heart he had to step away from and he will fight tooth and nail to get those things back into his life, he is just hoping that it doesn’t cost him his life. Born into his family name he has to overcome obstacles’ in order to continue the life that he chose for himself a long time ago. Where betrayal, lies, and murder lay all around him Kade is in the fight of his and he knows he can only trust certain people, but the question is does he trust the right ones?
Scarlett aches for Kade, something has been missing since the day he stomped on her heart and she wants it back. After finding out secrets that have been kept from her she knows she should keep her distance and not get mixed up with Kade and his past but something within herself calls him to her. Even with all the danger lurking around her she still wants him and she herself too is willing to fight for what she wants. Being in the crossfire can be dangerous and Scarlett finds out just how dangerous love can be.
While reading I always try and think ahead and figure out the story before it actually happens instead of letting the story take me there – I guess my mind moves too fast. So after I finished Lifeless I knew what would happen in My Beautiful.
Around 40% into My Beautiful I was like “No shit – I got it”.
And then around 50% I was like "Oh shit – maybe I don’t have it.”
So here I am reading My Beautiful going through the twists and turns just knowing that I got it now. I know exactly who everyone is and who they say they are. The ending is wrapping up nicely for me because hey I am a smart girl so I just go it. I do, I know the ending, I know the ending…Well than Jennifer kind of sort of……
Because NOPE once again I was so very wrong.
The love between Kade and Scarlett is powerful during My Beautiful and he truly will stop at everything to protect her even putting up with her half brother Bryce that we met in Lifeless. Bryce and Kade are working towards two goals together. One is to protect Scarlett from being harmed any means necessary and 2 getting back their normal lives away from all the craziness that is Kade’s family.
Kade is a lover but has a badass side that he brings out when needed. The storyline is fantastic. I am reading and reading, devouring and devouring and thinking and thinking (you know I try and play the story out before it’s over). Well around 75%ish in the light bulb dings in my head and I just knew it. I knew this was going to happen. I knew that was going to happen and I just know who is involved and about 80% ish in I picture J.M. doing this….
Because again I was wrong! Which than made me go a little something like this.
What…………………………..Do how………………………….Why………………….Oh no……………………….Wait what the fuck just happened?
And left me looking like…..
But with longer hair and not so manly looking.
Let me tell you guys – I was shocked by the ending. The whole story from the beginning of Lifeless to the end of My Beautiful leads you to the end to the end of the game of Clue of why, what, and who. There is great naughty stuff, great true love story, awesome suspense, and the full on shock value that you receive at towards the end. J.M did an outstanding job wrapping up Kade and Scarlett’s story. So if you come real close I will tell exactly what you need to know about My Beautiful…..shhhhhhhhhhhh – come here……….closer………..closer………..closer
Okay the girl has spoken – you have to read and find out for yourself!
When My Beautiful first begins 8 months has passed since the ending of Lifeless where Scarlett was left broken hearted not really knowing the real Kade. After being pushed aside by a man she was falling fast for she packs up and moves to California with her best friend to help run a new office her company is opening in Los Angeles. It turns out that it’s a small world and Scarlett’s path and new adventure will bring her front and center to Kade; the man who not only stole her heart but in the same breath broke it into a million pieces.
I loved this book because not only did it give me the smut and naughty stuff that I crave so much in the novels I read it also gave me angst. Danger and suspense hid around every corner. Not everyone is who they seem to be. J.M. will take you on a roller coaster ride with this one. It’s like a real life game of Clue of who did it, with what, to whom, and why. All your questions and some that you may not have even thought about will be answered by the time you finish this book.
Kade is still sexy and dirty talking Kade but I think in My Beautiful we get to see a much softer side of him. You get to know the real man underneath the hard exterior, the man that will stop at nothing to protect Scarlett from any harm coming her way. Part of him is broken because the two things that he held closest to his heart he had to step away from and he will fight tooth and nail to get those things back into his life, he is just hoping that it doesn’t cost him his life. Born into his family name he has to overcome obstacles’ in order to continue the life that he chose for himself a long time ago. Where betrayal, lies, and murder lay all around him Kade is in the fight of his and he knows he can only trust certain people, but the question is does he trust the right ones?
Scarlett aches for Kade, something has been missing since the day he stomped on her heart and she wants it back. After finding out secrets that have been kept from her she knows she should keep her distance and not get mixed up with Kade and his past but something within herself calls him to her. Even with all the danger lurking around her she still wants him and she herself too is willing to fight for what she wants. Being in the crossfire can be dangerous and Scarlett finds out just how dangerous love can be.
While reading I always try and think ahead and figure out the story before it actually happens instead of letting the story take me there – I guess my mind moves too fast. So after I finished Lifeless I knew what would happen in My Beautiful.
Around 40% into My Beautiful I was like “No shit – I got it”.
And then around 50% I was like "Oh shit – maybe I don’t have it.”
So here I am reading My Beautiful going through the twists and turns just knowing that I got it now. I know exactly who everyone is and who they say they are. The ending is wrapping up nicely for me because hey I am a smart girl so I just go it. I do, I know the ending, I know the ending…Well than Jennifer kind of sort of……
Because NOPE once again I was so very wrong.
The love between Kade and Scarlett is powerful during My Beautiful and he truly will stop at everything to protect her even putting up with her half brother Bryce that we met in Lifeless. Bryce and Kade are working towards two goals together. One is to protect Scarlett from being harmed any means necessary and 2 getting back their normal lives away from all the craziness that is Kade’s family.
Kade is a lover but has a badass side that he brings out when needed. The storyline is fantastic. I am reading and reading, devouring and devouring and thinking and thinking (you know I try and play the story out before it’s over). Well around 75%ish in the light bulb dings in my head and I just knew it. I knew this was going to happen. I knew that was going to happen and I just know who is involved and about 80% ish in I picture J.M. doing this….
Because again I was wrong! Which than made me go a little something like this.
What…………………………..Do how………………………….Why………………….Oh no……………………….Wait what the fuck just happened?
And left me looking like…..
But with longer hair and not so manly looking.
Let me tell you guys – I was shocked by the ending. The whole story from the beginning of Lifeless to the end of My Beautiful leads you to the end to the end of the game of Clue of why, what, and who. There is great naughty stuff, great true love story, awesome suspense, and the full on shock value that you receive at towards the end. J.M did an outstanding job wrapping up Kade and Scarlett’s story. So if you come real close I will tell exactly what you need to know about My Beautiful…..shhhhhhhhhhhh – come here……….closer………..closer………..closer
Okay the girl has spoken – you have to read and find out for yourself!
January 9, 2014
3.5 Stars of Twists Turns Revelations & Steam
The ending to JM La Rocca’s book 1, Lifeless, had me gripping my kindle till my knuckles were white. Part of me wanted to punch Kade Evans in the face but then Scarlett’s step-brother, Bryce, had me wanting to slap him. The only thing I was certain about was I that I wanted to hug Scarlett. Now don’t get me wrong no matter how infuriated I was with Kade, he is still sexy, dirty mouthed, rocking body and rock star Kade Evans so of course I was excited to get my hands on him. But damn if I wasn’t left scratching my head with my jaw open; Kade or should I call him Nick DiCosola? Kade’s mobster of an uncle, Frank, enters back into his life, he reluctantly ends his relationship with Scarlett out of best interest for her own safety. Needless to say both characters are left with heartache and neither having a say how their relationship should go.
My Beautiful picks up eight months following the ending of Lifeless. Scarlett remains heart broken by the departure of Kade and Kade’s life is plagued by the presence of his uncle, who demands his nephew learn the family business. Soon fate brings these two broken hearts back together. When Scarlett’s bestie, Jules is promoted to office manager of the new agency location in Los Angeles, she adds in Scarlett as part of the package deal. The friendship between these two still is a treat to read. Jules is my favorite secondary character and would love to see her get her own spin-off series Jules spunky, feisty, and blunt. She helps bring Scarlett out of her funk while also acting as a protector and not so-good match maker lol
Not too long after, Scarlett and Jules move to LA, Scarlett and Kade happen to attend the same club. And speakers weren’t the only thing thumping wildly, the sparks are still there and both hearts are overwhelmed at how much each other still cares for the other. I respected how maturely Scarlett handles the run-in. She didn’t run out of the club or hide in the bathroom, she dug deep and owned her confidence while inside she was aching. Yet, so much for avoiding him, Kade had other plans. The following day Kade pays a visit to Scarlett’s apartment in hopes of gaining some sort of closure/offering his apologizes for pain he has caused her.
”I did what I thought was best. I didn’t want to see you get hurt because of me, so I’m the one that had to hurt you in the end. I don’t even know if that makes sense. I want you to know that I’ve missed you ever single day. That connection we had when we first met, it hasn’t gone way.”
The reunion between these characters was a tad predictable and unrealistic; however, because I am a cheerleader for this couple I did not mind it!
What I had trouble comprehending was what the heck Bryce, or Kevin whoever the hell he is, was up too? Since the ending of Lifeless, I have been suspicious of him. Then again JM La Rocca does an amazing job messing with your mind. You know the saying, No one or nothing is as it seems? Perfect notion for this story. Just when you thought you had one part of the puzzle put together, JM throws you for another loop.
The journey you go on with this couple is more than just sorting out their relationship status, the outside forces that intervene are thrillingly suspenseful—Crime, mob wars, drugs, kidnapping, beatings, freaking chill inducing crazy psychopath Paul, FBI, etc—so much is unraveled, so much erupts that JM will keep you flipping through the pages to see if your predictions are right. Oh and don’t worry she also packs the steam. Whew my kindle screen fogged up a couple times whenever sex and Kade Evans were involved. Damn that man and his mouth, his hands, his body all will get your attention peaked as well as your hormones.
I saw tremendous growth from Kade and Scarlett as a couple, more communication, more thoughtfulness and stronger emotions. However, I didn’t see as much individual character growth as I would have liked. Kade falters back and forth between showing backbone and not towards his uncle. Scarlett forgave/jumped back into Kade’s arm and trust too easily without hesitant she went head first back with him; I would of liked to see more questions for him from her.
JM La Rocca does a great job wrapping the story up. She connects all the dots and you get all the answers you are seeking. She does leave it open to where more story could progress but at the same time you are left feeling satisfied with all the characters’ fates. Overall this series was pretty good but for me book 1 was more attention keeping and flowed better than this one. Nevertheless, these are only the first two works by JM who I will most definitely be on the lookout for more books in the future!
”She’s my angle in this darkness
No matter how hard they pull.
One touch of her body, and I know
Ooh, she’s my beautiful.
**Received ARC copy in exchange for honest review**
The ending to JM La Rocca’s book 1, Lifeless, had me gripping my kindle till my knuckles were white. Part of me wanted to punch Kade Evans in the face but then Scarlett’s step-brother, Bryce, had me wanting to slap him. The only thing I was certain about was I that I wanted to hug Scarlett. Now don’t get me wrong no matter how infuriated I was with Kade, he is still sexy, dirty mouthed, rocking body and rock star Kade Evans so of course I was excited to get my hands on him. But damn if I wasn’t left scratching my head with my jaw open; Kade or should I call him Nick DiCosola? Kade’s mobster of an uncle, Frank, enters back into his life, he reluctantly ends his relationship with Scarlett out of best interest for her own safety. Needless to say both characters are left with heartache and neither having a say how their relationship should go.
My Beautiful picks up eight months following the ending of Lifeless. Scarlett remains heart broken by the departure of Kade and Kade’s life is plagued by the presence of his uncle, who demands his nephew learn the family business. Soon fate brings these two broken hearts back together. When Scarlett’s bestie, Jules is promoted to office manager of the new agency location in Los Angeles, she adds in Scarlett as part of the package deal. The friendship between these two still is a treat to read. Jules is my favorite secondary character and would love to see her get her own spin-off series Jules spunky, feisty, and blunt. She helps bring Scarlett out of her funk while also acting as a protector and not so-good match maker lol
Not too long after, Scarlett and Jules move to LA, Scarlett and Kade happen to attend the same club. And speakers weren’t the only thing thumping wildly, the sparks are still there and both hearts are overwhelmed at how much each other still cares for the other. I respected how maturely Scarlett handles the run-in. She didn’t run out of the club or hide in the bathroom, she dug deep and owned her confidence while inside she was aching. Yet, so much for avoiding him, Kade had other plans. The following day Kade pays a visit to Scarlett’s apartment in hopes of gaining some sort of closure/offering his apologizes for pain he has caused her.
”I did what I thought was best. I didn’t want to see you get hurt because of me, so I’m the one that had to hurt you in the end. I don’t even know if that makes sense. I want you to know that I’ve missed you ever single day. That connection we had when we first met, it hasn’t gone way.”
The reunion between these characters was a tad predictable and unrealistic; however, because I am a cheerleader for this couple I did not mind it!
What I had trouble comprehending was what the heck Bryce, or Kevin whoever the hell he is, was up too? Since the ending of Lifeless, I have been suspicious of him. Then again JM La Rocca does an amazing job messing with your mind. You know the saying, No one or nothing is as it seems? Perfect notion for this story. Just when you thought you had one part of the puzzle put together, JM throws you for another loop.
The journey you go on with this couple is more than just sorting out their relationship status, the outside forces that intervene are thrillingly suspenseful—Crime, mob wars, drugs, kidnapping, beatings, freaking chill inducing crazy psychopath Paul, FBI, etc—so much is unraveled, so much erupts that JM will keep you flipping through the pages to see if your predictions are right. Oh and don’t worry she also packs the steam. Whew my kindle screen fogged up a couple times whenever sex and Kade Evans were involved. Damn that man and his mouth, his hands, his body all will get your attention peaked as well as your hormones.
I saw tremendous growth from Kade and Scarlett as a couple, more communication, more thoughtfulness and stronger emotions. However, I didn’t see as much individual character growth as I would have liked. Kade falters back and forth between showing backbone and not towards his uncle. Scarlett forgave/jumped back into Kade’s arm and trust too easily without hesitant she went head first back with him; I would of liked to see more questions for him from her.
JM La Rocca does a great job wrapping the story up. She connects all the dots and you get all the answers you are seeking. She does leave it open to where more story could progress but at the same time you are left feeling satisfied with all the characters’ fates. Overall this series was pretty good but for me book 1 was more attention keeping and flowed better than this one. Nevertheless, these are only the first two works by JM who I will most definitely be on the lookout for more books in the future!
”She’s my angle in this darkness
No matter how hard they pull.
One touch of her body, and I know
Ooh, she’s my beautiful.
**Received ARC copy in exchange for honest review**
December 17, 2013
*Arc given in exchange for an honest review*
This is the follow up to Lifeless; it should not be read as a standalone. In order to understand the events in My Beautiful, you need to read Lifeless first.
My Beautiful starts eight months after the end of Lifeless; both Kade and Scarlett are simply going through the motions of life since their break up. Kade is back in California, reluctantly becoming part of the "family business," which has put his music career on hold. Scarlett is still in Atlanta trying to get over her broken heart, but then, Scarlett's best friend, Jules, gets a promotion, and soon, they are both moving to California, where Scarlett does her best to avoid anything Kade related.
When fate stops in, Scarlett and Kade have no choice but to confront their break up and the bitter feelings left behind. Kade left Scarlett because he wanted to protect her from the "gangster life" that he found himself immersed in, but little did he know that by Bryce (Kevin) telling Scarlett who he was working for and what his plans were, she was never out of the watchful eye of Kade's uncle. Kade soon realized that there really wasn't any need for his separation from Scarlett as long as they were careful.
"I told myself I was doing the right thing letting you walk out that night. I didn't want you anywhere near this shit storm that is my life now...I've thought about you every day since I left, and now that you're here...I can't let you go."
Kade and Scarlett's magnetic connection never went away and like all encounters before, their reunion is downright scorching, but not much has changed since Kade left Scarlett the first time, so their desire to "try" to make their relationship work doesn't come without hardships. All too soon, it seems to Scarlett that Kade is shutting her out again, and then Scarlett witnesses Kade in a compromising position, and once again, she is destroyed by her love of this man who always seems to be out of her reach.
What is interesting about My Beautiful is that the book is more about the growth of Kade and Scarlett individually. Most of the book, Kade is entrenched in his family affairs and has to stay away from Scarlett. As he dives deeper into understanding daily operations and participating in acts that he never thought he would be a part of, Kade anticipates putting an end to his connection with crime, but it is easier said than done. Scarlett is stressed out and depressed for most of the book, but she also gains a bit of a backbone and works to stand her ground and make her feelings known. Lifeless focuses on the growth of Scarlett and Kade's love affair while My Beautiful focuses on the events that must happen to allow them their happy ending.
After reading My Beautiful, my gut reaction was that the book needed more romance; I felt there was too much written about Kade's immersion into crime and his disconnect from Scarlett and his band; the romantic in me wanted an instantaneous reunion. As I thought more about Kade and Scarlett's relationship and why Kade had to give her up at the end of the first book, it made complete sense to have it written this way. Kade would have never felt "free" from his uncle's world unless he was able to take his uncle down or at least let his feelings be known that he wanted no part in the world of crime, and while the twist at the end was a bit predictable, it was also a necessity because it allowed the extra disconnect that both Scarlett and Kade needed to be together without any outside interference.
"'You made me want to be a better person, and I am because of you. You've made me feel things I hadn't felt in so long'...'You're my beautiful.'"
Overall, I definitely recommend this series. The first book is full of steamy scenes and a bit of mystery while the second book deals with intense drama/conflict and a bit of romance - the perfect 1-2 punch for a series. Bring on Jules' story!
4 poison apples! (From The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
This is the follow up to Lifeless; it should not be read as a standalone. In order to understand the events in My Beautiful, you need to read Lifeless first.
My Beautiful starts eight months after the end of Lifeless; both Kade and Scarlett are simply going through the motions of life since their break up. Kade is back in California, reluctantly becoming part of the "family business," which has put his music career on hold. Scarlett is still in Atlanta trying to get over her broken heart, but then, Scarlett's best friend, Jules, gets a promotion, and soon, they are both moving to California, where Scarlett does her best to avoid anything Kade related.
When fate stops in, Scarlett and Kade have no choice but to confront their break up and the bitter feelings left behind. Kade left Scarlett because he wanted to protect her from the "gangster life" that he found himself immersed in, but little did he know that by Bryce (Kevin) telling Scarlett who he was working for and what his plans were, she was never out of the watchful eye of Kade's uncle. Kade soon realized that there really wasn't any need for his separation from Scarlett as long as they were careful.
"I told myself I was doing the right thing letting you walk out that night. I didn't want you anywhere near this shit storm that is my life now...I've thought about you every day since I left, and now that you're here...I can't let you go."
Kade and Scarlett's magnetic connection never went away and like all encounters before, their reunion is downright scorching, but not much has changed since Kade left Scarlett the first time, so their desire to "try" to make their relationship work doesn't come without hardships. All too soon, it seems to Scarlett that Kade is shutting her out again, and then Scarlett witnesses Kade in a compromising position, and once again, she is destroyed by her love of this man who always seems to be out of her reach.
What is interesting about My Beautiful is that the book is more about the growth of Kade and Scarlett individually. Most of the book, Kade is entrenched in his family affairs and has to stay away from Scarlett. As he dives deeper into understanding daily operations and participating in acts that he never thought he would be a part of, Kade anticipates putting an end to his connection with crime, but it is easier said than done. Scarlett is stressed out and depressed for most of the book, but she also gains a bit of a backbone and works to stand her ground and make her feelings known. Lifeless focuses on the growth of Scarlett and Kade's love affair while My Beautiful focuses on the events that must happen to allow them their happy ending.
After reading My Beautiful, my gut reaction was that the book needed more romance; I felt there was too much written about Kade's immersion into crime and his disconnect from Scarlett and his band; the romantic in me wanted an instantaneous reunion. As I thought more about Kade and Scarlett's relationship and why Kade had to give her up at the end of the first book, it made complete sense to have it written this way. Kade would have never felt "free" from his uncle's world unless he was able to take his uncle down or at least let his feelings be known that he wanted no part in the world of crime, and while the twist at the end was a bit predictable, it was also a necessity because it allowed the extra disconnect that both Scarlett and Kade needed to be together without any outside interference.
"'You made me want to be a better person, and I am because of you. You've made me feel things I hadn't felt in so long'...'You're my beautiful.'"
Overall, I definitely recommend this series. The first book is full of steamy scenes and a bit of mystery while the second book deals with intense drama/conflict and a bit of romance - the perfect 1-2 punch for a series. Bring on Jules' story!
4 poison apples! (From The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
December 28, 2013
**JUST BOOKED received an ARC for a Honest Review**
“…YOU'VE MADE ME FEEL THINGS I HADN'T FELT IN SO LONG'...'YOU'RE MY BEAUTIFUL.”
My Beautiful is the second novel in the Lifeless series and to understand the history of the characters, please read J.M. LaRocca’s first novel in the series, Lifeless, the novel will not disappoint you. In Lifeless, J.M. LaRocca has taken her love of reading and writing to debut her first Contemporary Romance novel. Please do not let the title deviate from the true romance shaping between Scarlett “Letti” Moore and Kade Evans. Lifeless is a beautiful sexy romance novel capturing your interest and sends you on a roller coaster with many sudden dips and turns, so intense that you will be unable to put the book down. Scarlett is quiet, smart, shy, and beautiful girl whom just graduated from the University of South Alabama. Scarlett moves to Atlanta for a new beginning and lands her a job with Entertainment Atlanta as an Account Agent with her best friend, Jules. In Atlanta, she meets Kade Evans the lead singer of Perfectly Damaged the HOT SEXY and WOMANIZER. However, the women are not his only vice, there are also the drugs, alcohol, and a past with secrets too. Yet, he feels as if Scarlett is his angel to all his darkness and their chemistry too strong to keep them apart. Regardless of their own barriers, Scarlett and Kade find a connection they cannot deny or explain but only feel. Lifeless does end with a huge cliffhanger, but do not fret because My Beautiful starts immediately where Lifeless ends continuing with the romance roller coaster between Scarlett and Kade.
In My Beautiful, eighth months have now passed since Kade was force into many changes causing him to end his relationships with Scarlett and his band. Scarlett does not know why Kade has left her though, because Kade holds the secret to his other life to protect her from the “family.” Unfortunately, the eight months have been horrible, because Kade and Scarlett cannot mend their broken hearts.
"I told myself I was doing the right thing letting you walk out that night. I didn't want you anywhere near this shit storm that is my life now...I've thought about you every day since I left, and now that you're here...I can't let you go." – Kade
Meanwhile, Scarlett and Jules receive promotions in their positions sending them to California to open another office for the agency. Kade has also moved back to California to wrap-up his recording with the band, Perfectly Damaged, because his uncle wants him to devote his time to be an understudy in the “family business,” so he could take his rightful position. The band also notices how much Kade misses Scarlett, because Kade records the song he wrote for Scarlett when they were in Atlanta.
“The night I first saw her
My world stood still.
Mesmerized by her beauty
She was dressed to kill.
I should turn away
And never look back
‘Cause she’s full of light
And I’m nothing but black.
She’s my angel in this darkness
No matter how hard they pull.
One look in her eyes, and I know
Ooh, she’s my beautiful…” - Kade
What Scarlett and Kade never expected was how fate was going to toy with them by making them cross paths again, but this time Kade is going to fight with everything he has and everyone to keep Scarlett at his side. He wants Scarlett to know how much he loves her, but he is uncertain if she can forgive him for leaving her and breaking her heart.
"'You made me want to be a better person, and I am because of you. You've made me feel things I hadn't felt in so long'...'You're my beautiful.'" - Kade
Author J.M. LaRocca’s has done an AMAZING job writing a RAW LOVE STORY that will capture your attention immediately and find yourself unable to put the book down. You will also experience a roller coaster of emotions from feeling SCARED, SAD, SUSPENSEFUL, SHOCKED, TRAGEDY, and TENDERNESS.
I rate J.M. LaRocca’s novel in the Lifeless series, My Beautiful – 5 AMAZING STARS!
“…YOU'VE MADE ME FEEL THINGS I HADN'T FELT IN SO LONG'...'YOU'RE MY BEAUTIFUL.”
My Beautiful is the second novel in the Lifeless series and to understand the history of the characters, please read J.M. LaRocca’s first novel in the series, Lifeless, the novel will not disappoint you. In Lifeless, J.M. LaRocca has taken her love of reading and writing to debut her first Contemporary Romance novel. Please do not let the title deviate from the true romance shaping between Scarlett “Letti” Moore and Kade Evans. Lifeless is a beautiful sexy romance novel capturing your interest and sends you on a roller coaster with many sudden dips and turns, so intense that you will be unable to put the book down. Scarlett is quiet, smart, shy, and beautiful girl whom just graduated from the University of South Alabama. Scarlett moves to Atlanta for a new beginning and lands her a job with Entertainment Atlanta as an Account Agent with her best friend, Jules. In Atlanta, she meets Kade Evans the lead singer of Perfectly Damaged the HOT SEXY and WOMANIZER. However, the women are not his only vice, there are also the drugs, alcohol, and a past with secrets too. Yet, he feels as if Scarlett is his angel to all his darkness and their chemistry too strong to keep them apart. Regardless of their own barriers, Scarlett and Kade find a connection they cannot deny or explain but only feel. Lifeless does end with a huge cliffhanger, but do not fret because My Beautiful starts immediately where Lifeless ends continuing with the romance roller coaster between Scarlett and Kade.
In My Beautiful, eighth months have now passed since Kade was force into many changes causing him to end his relationships with Scarlett and his band. Scarlett does not know why Kade has left her though, because Kade holds the secret to his other life to protect her from the “family.” Unfortunately, the eight months have been horrible, because Kade and Scarlett cannot mend their broken hearts.
"I told myself I was doing the right thing letting you walk out that night. I didn't want you anywhere near this shit storm that is my life now...I've thought about you every day since I left, and now that you're here...I can't let you go." – Kade
Meanwhile, Scarlett and Jules receive promotions in their positions sending them to California to open another office for the agency. Kade has also moved back to California to wrap-up his recording with the band, Perfectly Damaged, because his uncle wants him to devote his time to be an understudy in the “family business,” so he could take his rightful position. The band also notices how much Kade misses Scarlett, because Kade records the song he wrote for Scarlett when they were in Atlanta.
“The night I first saw her
My world stood still.
Mesmerized by her beauty
She was dressed to kill.
I should turn away
And never look back
‘Cause she’s full of light
And I’m nothing but black.
She’s my angel in this darkness
No matter how hard they pull.
One look in her eyes, and I know
Ooh, she’s my beautiful…” - Kade
What Scarlett and Kade never expected was how fate was going to toy with them by making them cross paths again, but this time Kade is going to fight with everything he has and everyone to keep Scarlett at his side. He wants Scarlett to know how much he loves her, but he is uncertain if she can forgive him for leaving her and breaking her heart.
"'You made me want to be a better person, and I am because of you. You've made me feel things I hadn't felt in so long'...'You're my beautiful.'" - Kade
Author J.M. LaRocca’s has done an AMAZING job writing a RAW LOVE STORY that will capture your attention immediately and find yourself unable to put the book down. You will also experience a roller coaster of emotions from feeling SCARED, SAD, SUSPENSEFUL, SHOCKED, TRAGEDY, and TENDERNESS.
I rate J.M. LaRocca’s novel in the Lifeless series, My Beautiful – 5 AMAZING STARS!
January 10, 2014
Holy smokes!! My Beautiful was everything I was expecting and more. My Beautiful is the second book in the Lifeless series by J.M. La Rocca and it picks up eight months after Lifeless ends. If you haven't read Lifeless I highly recommend reading that one first. You can find it on Goodreads here. I read Lifeless and My Beautiful back to back. I could not put either book down. I had family visiting while I was reading My Beautiful and I found myself sneak reading because I HAD to know what was going to happen.
Kade Evans is a sexy as sin bad boy rockstar (we all know how much I LOVE bad boy rockstars) with a past that he thought would never catch up to him. We found out in Lifeless that it had in fact caught up with him and now he had no choice but to deal with it. His uncle is a big time mob boss and wanted Kade to learn the business. Kade had no choice because he has seen first hand what happens when you don't do as your Uncle Frank tell you to. Kade hates doing his uncle's dirty work but he is only doing it until he can figure out how to get out. I love Kade. I love everything about him. He grew up so much in this book and watching him evolve was amazing.
Scarlett Moore works for an entertainment insurance agency in Atlanta with her best friend Jules. She had a crappy childhood with a mother (if you can actually call her that) that made her life hell and a non-existent father. At the beginning of My Beautiful we find out that Scarlett and Jules are getting transferred to L.A. to open a new branch. Scarlett was a lovable character. I instantly connected with her.
I could not read this book fast enough because I was dying to know what was going to happen between Scarlett and Kade. There were things that were left unfinished in Lifeless and I could not wait to see them resolved. I needed answers and boy did I get them. This book GUTTED me. It shattered my heart and consumed all of my feelings. I felt everything that Kade and Scarlett both felt. I saw both sides and in return it doubled my heartache. It was like I was in the book, standing next to them witnessing first hand everything that was going on. I felt the love that they both had and understood why things had to be the way they were. At times I felt like the reunion was a little rushed but part of me was okay with that because I had to know where their relationship was going.
We met Bryce in book one and let me just say that when we offically met him my jaw hit the floor. I had to pick it back up and put it in place because I did not see what was coming. I liked Bryce, he was a good guy and a good friend to Scarlett. In My Beautiful I liked him but oh my goodness he SHOCKED me. I was completely blindsided by what transpired in this book.
I can't forget about the other characters in this book; Jules and Sam. Jules really matured in this book and her relationship with Brent grew into what I hoped it would, a real relationship. Jules is the type of friend that everyone wants; she is understanding yet puts you in your place when you need it. Sam, oh Sam. He gets hired by Jules to work in the new office that she opened. Sam is hot and he has an Australian accent, what more could you want? He is also sweet and funny, to me he is the complete package.
There is so much more I wish I could say about this book but I can't because it will give too much away. I highly recommend reading both books in this series. They will keep you glued to your kindle. I could not read fast enough with either book. Bravo J.M. I love when a book keeps my attention and puts me on the edge of my seat at the same time.
Kade Evans is a sexy as sin bad boy rockstar (we all know how much I LOVE bad boy rockstars) with a past that he thought would never catch up to him. We found out in Lifeless that it had in fact caught up with him and now he had no choice but to deal with it. His uncle is a big time mob boss and wanted Kade to learn the business. Kade had no choice because he has seen first hand what happens when you don't do as your Uncle Frank tell you to. Kade hates doing his uncle's dirty work but he is only doing it until he can figure out how to get out. I love Kade. I love everything about him. He grew up so much in this book and watching him evolve was amazing.
Scarlett Moore works for an entertainment insurance agency in Atlanta with her best friend Jules. She had a crappy childhood with a mother (if you can actually call her that) that made her life hell and a non-existent father. At the beginning of My Beautiful we find out that Scarlett and Jules are getting transferred to L.A. to open a new branch. Scarlett was a lovable character. I instantly connected with her.
I could not read this book fast enough because I was dying to know what was going to happen between Scarlett and Kade. There were things that were left unfinished in Lifeless and I could not wait to see them resolved. I needed answers and boy did I get them. This book GUTTED me. It shattered my heart and consumed all of my feelings. I felt everything that Kade and Scarlett both felt. I saw both sides and in return it doubled my heartache. It was like I was in the book, standing next to them witnessing first hand everything that was going on. I felt the love that they both had and understood why things had to be the way they were. At times I felt like the reunion was a little rushed but part of me was okay with that because I had to know where their relationship was going.
We met Bryce in book one and let me just say that when we offically met him my jaw hit the floor. I had to pick it back up and put it in place because I did not see what was coming. I liked Bryce, he was a good guy and a good friend to Scarlett. In My Beautiful I liked him but oh my goodness he SHOCKED me. I was completely blindsided by what transpired in this book.
I can't forget about the other characters in this book; Jules and Sam. Jules really matured in this book and her relationship with Brent grew into what I hoped it would, a real relationship. Jules is the type of friend that everyone wants; she is understanding yet puts you in your place when you need it. Sam, oh Sam. He gets hired by Jules to work in the new office that she opened. Sam is hot and he has an Australian accent, what more could you want? He is also sweet and funny, to me he is the complete package.
There is so much more I wish I could say about this book but I can't because it will give too much away. I highly recommend reading both books in this series. They will keep you glued to your kindle. I could not read fast enough with either book. Bravo J.M. I love when a book keeps my attention and puts me on the edge of my seat at the same time.
September 10, 2016
There was just something about her; her smile, the way she laughed, walked, danced. I wanted to be near her. I had plenty of women pawing for my attention, but I was getting tired of the same ‘ole shit. I wanted something real. She was my real. – Kade
Kade had Scarlett right where he wanted her. In his heart and in his bed but he had to break her heart to keep her safe. Safe from a life that he was born into and thought that was in the distant past. A life that could get both of them killed. My Beautiful starts off eight months after Lifeless ended.
Kade also had to walk away from his life in the limelight of fame and his band and Scarlett. There was no way he would be able to do both and keep everyone alive. Kade’s Uncle Frank is a mob boss. A mob boss that will not take no for an answer when he said that Kade had to come work for him.
When Jules and Scarlett are offered a chance to lead the opening of a new branch of the company that they work in LA, they jump at the new beginning. But that means that she will be closer to Kade. On Scarlet’s birthday, her and Jules head over to Club X, the nightclub Jules’ boyfriend owns and that is where they see each other again.
I thought it was funny how, in life, you could go from lust to love, from hurt to pissed, and then acceptance. I accepted what happened. I was still pissed off about it. It hurt to look at him because it brought up the memories, which then reminded me why I loved him to begin with. And then to be near him…that brought back the craving of lust. The nights of passion we shared. The chemistry that just didn’t seem to go away when we were around each other. It was a confliction of emotions…. – Scarlett
Kade is desperately trying to find a way out from under Franks control. But after seeing Scarlett at the club, he could not stay away from her. When Bryce, Scarlett’s step brother offers Kade a way out he jumps at the opportunity and Scarlett’s waiting arms.
“I told myself I was doing the right thing letting you walk out that night. I didn’t want you anywhere near this shit storm that is my life now. You saw it with your own eyes, Scarlett. I told myself that as soon I got out, I’d try to get you back. I shouldn’t want you with everything going on, but it’s not all about wanting you, Scarlett. I need you. I’ve never needed anything more. I’ve thought about you every day since I left, and now that you’re here…I can’t let you go.” – Kade
Ok, SWOON!! This book is a rollercoaster ride with triple loops! It has so many twists and turns and I couldn’t put it down until I was done at 3:30am! I just kept saying ‘OK just one more chapter, one more chapter!’ I was so surprised by the storyline and the sex is oh so hot!
She was my drug. I was addicted and a little hit wouldn’t be enough. I wanted all of her. I wanted to be all for her. Everything she needed. – Kade
Kade had Scarlett right where he wanted her. In his heart and in his bed but he had to break her heart to keep her safe. Safe from a life that he was born into and thought that was in the distant past. A life that could get both of them killed. My Beautiful starts off eight months after Lifeless ended.
Kade also had to walk away from his life in the limelight of fame and his band and Scarlett. There was no way he would be able to do both and keep everyone alive. Kade’s Uncle Frank is a mob boss. A mob boss that will not take no for an answer when he said that Kade had to come work for him.
When Jules and Scarlett are offered a chance to lead the opening of a new branch of the company that they work in LA, they jump at the new beginning. But that means that she will be closer to Kade. On Scarlet’s birthday, her and Jules head over to Club X, the nightclub Jules’ boyfriend owns and that is where they see each other again.
I thought it was funny how, in life, you could go from lust to love, from hurt to pissed, and then acceptance. I accepted what happened. I was still pissed off about it. It hurt to look at him because it brought up the memories, which then reminded me why I loved him to begin with. And then to be near him…that brought back the craving of lust. The nights of passion we shared. The chemistry that just didn’t seem to go away when we were around each other. It was a confliction of emotions…. – Scarlett
Kade is desperately trying to find a way out from under Franks control. But after seeing Scarlett at the club, he could not stay away from her. When Bryce, Scarlett’s step brother offers Kade a way out he jumps at the opportunity and Scarlett’s waiting arms.
“I told myself I was doing the right thing letting you walk out that night. I didn’t want you anywhere near this shit storm that is my life now. You saw it with your own eyes, Scarlett. I told myself that as soon I got out, I’d try to get you back. I shouldn’t want you with everything going on, but it’s not all about wanting you, Scarlett. I need you. I’ve never needed anything more. I’ve thought about you every day since I left, and now that you’re here…I can’t let you go.” – Kade
Ok, SWOON!! This book is a rollercoaster ride with triple loops! It has so many twists and turns and I couldn’t put it down until I was done at 3:30am! I just kept saying ‘OK just one more chapter, one more chapter!’ I was so surprised by the storyline and the sex is oh so hot!
She was my drug. I was addicted and a little hit wouldn’t be enough. I wanted all of her. I wanted to be all for her. Everything she needed. – Kade
January 25, 2014
A really fun, light, fast-paced read—especially if you don’t mind suspending reality for the duration of the story.
Kade and Scarlett have been broken up for 8 months while Kade tries to figure a way out of working for his mob boss uncle. And even though Scarlett experienced the mobsters firsthand and saw a gun being wielded her way, it never seems to occur to her that Kade broke up with her to protect her. Which maybe I’m an eternal optimist or just plain conceited, but I tend to be the type that will take the tiniest indication of interest as my ex’s regret over their decision to break my heart. Not that my way is healthy or anything, I was just surprised to find out not everyone does that. So in this case where it seemed obvious, I was surprised by Scarlett’s oblivion.
Also, I found it rather convenient that every coffee shop, club, or restaurant she frequented always had her running into Kade or one of his friends. Really? I admit I haven’t been to LA, but uh, that doesn’t happen where I live. Just saying.
Most devastatingly unrealistic in my opinion, was the mob stuff itself. First of all, Bryce’s undercover mission was the worst kept secret on the planet. If we had to trust in FBI agents like Bryce to keep our country safe, we’d be in serious trouble because at the slightest nudge, he sang like a canary. And by confiding in Scarlett, he might as well have posted a billboard because she told her friends like it was high school gossip. I was constantly worried about possible rats that the mobsters had working undercover while Scarlett and her co-workers waxed on about her supposedly secret romance with Kade. I seemed to be the only one concerned about keeping it under wraps. Secondly, the big climax was all based on an assumption that I found to be absolute nonsense.
MY BEAUTIFUL was fun and enjoyable and the writing was smooth and well-executed. If I hadn’t had so many issues with believability, this story would have had a much higher rating from me.
**Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.
**Reviewed by preppea on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews.
Kade and Scarlett have been broken up for 8 months while Kade tries to figure a way out of working for his mob boss uncle. And even though Scarlett experienced the mobsters firsthand and saw a gun being wielded her way, it never seems to occur to her that Kade broke up with her to protect her. Which maybe I’m an eternal optimist or just plain conceited, but I tend to be the type that will take the tiniest indication of interest as my ex’s regret over their decision to break my heart. Not that my way is healthy or anything, I was just surprised to find out not everyone does that. So in this case where it seemed obvious, I was surprised by Scarlett’s oblivion.
Also, I found it rather convenient that every coffee shop, club, or restaurant she frequented always had her running into Kade or one of his friends. Really? I admit I haven’t been to LA, but uh, that doesn’t happen where I live. Just saying.
Most devastatingly unrealistic in my opinion, was the mob stuff itself. First of all, Bryce’s undercover mission was the worst kept secret on the planet. If we had to trust in FBI agents like Bryce to keep our country safe, we’d be in serious trouble because at the slightest nudge, he sang like a canary. And by confiding in Scarlett, he might as well have posted a billboard because she told her friends like it was high school gossip. I was constantly worried about possible rats that the mobsters had working undercover while Scarlett and her co-workers waxed on about her supposedly secret romance with Kade. I seemed to be the only one concerned about keeping it under wraps. Secondly, the big climax was all based on an assumption that I found to be absolute nonsense.
MY BEAUTIFUL was fun and enjoyable and the writing was smooth and well-executed. If I hadn’t had so many issues with believability, this story would have had a much higher rating from me.
**Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.
**Reviewed by preppea on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews.
December 3, 2013
Looking for an action filled novel with an epic romance? Then you outta read My Beautiful by J.M. La Rocca. This novel had my eyes glued to my Kindle for hours straight. I am generally not a fan of action books/books with the mob in them. But Ms. La Rocca's characters and plot are perfectly written and woven together that I couldn't help but enjoy.
My Beautiful is the second novel in the Lifeless series. If you haven't read the first book yet, go back and read it. Personally as someone who read Lifeless beforehand, I don't think one can really enjoy the second book as much if he or she didn't read the first.
The story continues where it left off. It's been eight months since Kade's uncle forced him into a life he didn't want--- a life as a gangster. In order to protect her, Kade had to end his relationship with Scarlett. And since then, it's been hell for him... and her.
Although they have been apart for eight months, it's evident that Kade and Scarlett still yearn for each other. Fate suddenly brings them back together. Yes, Kade wants to protect her still. But this time around, he definitely knows that he can’t live without her. And he is willing to put up a fight to keep her both safe and by his side.
I will say that this is one of the few action romances that I actually like. Most of the time, I find action stories with romance to be too cliched. A damsel in distress is definitely of not my liking. I'm glad to say that this novel didn’t feel cliched at all but was rather very entertaining. I will admit though, some parts were predictable. For instance, the twist towards the end of the book… I knew that was going to happen.
The chemistry between Kade and Scarlett is like a ticking bomb. Insanely intense and passionately deep. I felt the love that these two people had for each other. The reunion between these two--- HOT!
People who have read this book may think it's weird. But I loved reading the parts where Kade is learning the ropes of the family business. For example, Kade goes out to threaten people for money. I don't think that's good. But just knowing how Kade’s a bad boy on the outside but softy on the inside--- totally made him more sexy to me. Being something you are not in order to find a way to be with someone you love--- That’s hot!
Overall, I definitely recommend this novel. J.M. wrote an amazing book! If you're looking for something entertaining to indulge in, definitely bump this book up on your TBR list.
My Beautiful is the second novel in the Lifeless series. If you haven't read the first book yet, go back and read it. Personally as someone who read Lifeless beforehand, I don't think one can really enjoy the second book as much if he or she didn't read the first.
The story continues where it left off. It's been eight months since Kade's uncle forced him into a life he didn't want--- a life as a gangster. In order to protect her, Kade had to end his relationship with Scarlett. And since then, it's been hell for him... and her.
Although they have been apart for eight months, it's evident that Kade and Scarlett still yearn for each other. Fate suddenly brings them back together. Yes, Kade wants to protect her still. But this time around, he definitely knows that he can’t live without her. And he is willing to put up a fight to keep her both safe and by his side.
I will say that this is one of the few action romances that I actually like. Most of the time, I find action stories with romance to be too cliched. A damsel in distress is definitely of not my liking. I'm glad to say that this novel didn’t feel cliched at all but was rather very entertaining. I will admit though, some parts were predictable. For instance, the twist towards the end of the book… I knew that was going to happen.
The chemistry between Kade and Scarlett is like a ticking bomb. Insanely intense and passionately deep. I felt the love that these two people had for each other. The reunion between these two--- HOT!
People who have read this book may think it's weird. But I loved reading the parts where Kade is learning the ropes of the family business. For example, Kade goes out to threaten people for money. I don't think that's good. But just knowing how Kade’s a bad boy on the outside but softy on the inside--- totally made him more sexy to me. Being something you are not in order to find a way to be with someone you love--- That’s hot!
Overall, I definitely recommend this novel. J.M. wrote an amazing book! If you're looking for something entertaining to indulge in, definitely bump this book up on your TBR list.
January 12, 2014
Well if that wasn't one hell of a ride! Jeez it was like a roller coaster, it kept me on the edge of my seat!.. So I tend to listen to music when I write my reviews and depending on my mood I sing with the songs..( a little past time fun for me ;) but this story has my mind boggled! We were left off with Scarlett not seeing Kade for eight months, Scarlett moves to L.A. with her best Jules for a job offer. What happens when Scarlett is spotted by the boys of the band and Kade finds out that she is in L.A.? A whole lotta crap! I loved how the connection between these two was not lost at all no matter how hard they tried. Kade sees Scarlett in a club one night this is his reaction..."IT HAD BEEN SO LONG SINCE I HAD SEEN HER ; I COULDN'T HELP GIVING HER A ONCE OVER. SHE LOOKED SO GOOD IN THOSE SHORT SHORTS SHE WAS WEARING, MAKING HER LEGS LOOK FUCKING EDIBLE. I COULD FEEL MY COCK GETTING STIFF AS I REMEMBERED WHAT IT WAS LIKE TO BE IN BETWEEN THEM. MY EYES TRAVELED UP TO HER FACE SHE WALKED CLOSER. SHE WAS SMILING AND LOOKED LIKE A FUCKING ANGEL." Yup homeboy still had it bad! well her reaction was almost the same.. just angry... but understandable when he had a skank on his lap. I loved these characters the chemistry was unbelievably crazy hot! It made me sad in some parts it was like these two couldn't catch a break, it was one thing after another! Let me tell you something even though the had their troubles .. they were never short on the HOT SEX!! Omg this right here is what made this HOT rocker/mobster make me melt! "I'M GOING TO MAKE YOU COME SO MANY TIMES THAT YOU WILL BEG FOR ME TO STOP, AND WHEN YOU BEG ME TO STOP, I'M GOING TO MAKE YOU COME AGAIN. THEN I'M GOING TO FUCK YOU WITH ME TONGUE, I'M GOING TO TASTE ALL OF YOU AND LICK UP EVERY LAST DROP. THEN. I'M GOING TO MAKE LOVE TO YOU SCARLETT." HOLY SHITTTTTTTTT!!!!!!!!!! I just got all hot and bothered just by writing that quote and reading it again! OMG WOMAN I was gonna spontaneously combust just from that line right there!!!! That Shlitz was hot as hell!!! I loved the book and I am hoping that we might be able read some more about these beautiful people? Or maybe even a story for Brent and Jules??? PLEASE PLEASE PRETTY PLEASE!!!! I Love you J.M.! I give this sexy man 5 stars! ~Chris
February 3, 2014
Wow! What a great conclusion to Kade and Scarlett's story! After the way Lifeless left me wanting more, I couldn't wait to dive into My Beautiful to see what was next for Kade and Scarlett. I put Kade on my naughty list after he broke Scarlett's heart, but he was doing what he thought was best, since his past came back with a vengance! Kade is a good guy, in My Beautiful, he left his asshat alter ego in Lifeless and thank goodness! He tried to act all bad, but Scarlett breaks right through that bad boy exterior! He's cut out all the B.S. that was holding him down, and wants Scarlett back and he lets her control the pace! That's right, bow down boy!!! Scarlett of course is putty in Kade's hands, I wish she would have made him work a little harder to win her back, but respected the fact that she didn't want to play games, she just wants her man back! It may be seen as weak, since she didn't put up a fight, in her mind she's ready to move on, but her heart isn't, and the heart wants, what the heart wants! Hell, if a man wrote a song confessing his love for me, I would take him back too! (don't judge) I also enjoyed the fact that the book is told from both POV's. Loved hearing from Kade especially since he's got all this baggage he's carrying. It was nice reading about what was going on in his mind, you really see how much he loves Scarlett and how he'll do anything to keep her safe.
This book is not short on drama, in the mist of Kade and Scarlett's happy reunion, there is the matter of Kade's "family" situation that he has to work through that could once again risk he and Scarlett's relationship.
Packed with action, betrayal, a few surprises, and of course some steamy fun, I loved My Beautiful!
As a side note, I really liked Scarlett's friend Jules. She has a mouth that will make a sailor blush (twatwaffle) and wonder if there will be a spin off with her and her boo Brent?!
This book is not short on drama, in the mist of Kade and Scarlett's happy reunion, there is the matter of Kade's "family" situation that he has to work through that could once again risk he and Scarlett's relationship.
Packed with action, betrayal, a few surprises, and of course some steamy fun, I loved My Beautiful!
As a side note, I really liked Scarlett's friend Jules. She has a mouth that will make a sailor blush (twatwaffle) and wonder if there will be a spin off with her and her boo Brent?!
January 8, 2014
(ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review)
My Beautiful is the conclusion (I think) to Scarlett and Kade’s story. The book is explosive and full of twists that you couldn’t predict.
In My Beautiful Kade gets his own voice and it works really well with the plot and giving you a more rounded view of what was going on. With book #1 we only saw Scarlett’s POV and due to the circumstances surrounding their relationship and the subsequent end of, it was hard to connect with Kade. You were kinda routing for Scarlett to dump him and move on, this all changes in My Beautiful.
My Beautiful picks up 8 months after Lifeless finishes and sees Scarlett moving to LA for work. Knowing that Kade is living in LA she is not looking forward to bumping in to him as he still consumes her thoughts.
Kade was forced by ‘the family’ to move back to LA and put his life on hold so he could be initiated into their lifestyle. For the sake of protecting Scarlett he goes. He’s not prepared to see her when he finds out she is now living in his town 8 months after he broke her heart.
The author has done a good job of keeping you guessing in the book, little clues are carefully laid throughout the plot and it was engaging to be putting the pieces together alongside the characters. For the most part the book flowed quite well and there was enough going on to keep it interesting and viable. However, I’m not sure I’m happy with the fact that everything came to a head all at the same time. There was a lot of information being thrown at you as the author raced to complete the story. It was still an enjoyable read; I just think it needed to be staggered slightly so the reader isn’t as overwhelmed. Other than that book #2 kicked some serious suspense filled butt. It was everything I was looking for in a book designed to keep me on edge and I struggled to put it down.
Looking forward to seeing more from J.M LaRocca. 4* Review.
My Beautiful is the conclusion (I think) to Scarlett and Kade’s story. The book is explosive and full of twists that you couldn’t predict.
In My Beautiful Kade gets his own voice and it works really well with the plot and giving you a more rounded view of what was going on. With book #1 we only saw Scarlett’s POV and due to the circumstances surrounding their relationship and the subsequent end of, it was hard to connect with Kade. You were kinda routing for Scarlett to dump him and move on, this all changes in My Beautiful.
My Beautiful picks up 8 months after Lifeless finishes and sees Scarlett moving to LA for work. Knowing that Kade is living in LA she is not looking forward to bumping in to him as he still consumes her thoughts.
Kade was forced by ‘the family’ to move back to LA and put his life on hold so he could be initiated into their lifestyle. For the sake of protecting Scarlett he goes. He’s not prepared to see her when he finds out she is now living in his town 8 months after he broke her heart.
The author has done a good job of keeping you guessing in the book, little clues are carefully laid throughout the plot and it was engaging to be putting the pieces together alongside the characters. For the most part the book flowed quite well and there was enough going on to keep it interesting and viable. However, I’m not sure I’m happy with the fact that everything came to a head all at the same time. There was a lot of information being thrown at you as the author raced to complete the story. It was still an enjoyable read; I just think it needed to be staggered slightly so the reader isn’t as overwhelmed. Other than that book #2 kicked some serious suspense filled butt. It was everything I was looking for in a book designed to keep me on edge and I struggled to put it down.
Looking forward to seeing more from J.M LaRocca. 4* Review.
December 21, 2013
Great story. Kade was sucked into a life he didn't want tombe in, and had to leave the band and Scarlett. He loved both and tried to tell the guys as little as possible, and he avoided Scarlett. That is u til she moved to LA and he saw her at Club X one night. Sam the fella Scarlett and Jules works with is great, wonderful guy and true friend. He is there to protect Scarlett, help her, and do what she needs, which was at the time, make Kade jealous. .... mission accomplished with sexy dancing at ghe club.
Kade goes to Scarlett's, get into a fight with Bryce and Bryce tells him he is undercover and trying to take Frank down for two years, and needs Kade's help to get it done. Kade stays with Scarlett and they get back together, wild passion and sex happens for hours! Kade gets closer to Frank, but then there is a twist. Bryce is working for Vic Trapani, took money from him to deliver dirt on Frank because he wants to wipe out the other Mob boss in tow and the family. Frank is too smart, saw it coming, didn't trust Bryce and that is why he sucked Frank back in. Bryce kidnaps Scarlett and she is held at Vic's house, safe but still captive.
Frank makes a decision to surprise Vic and family with surprise attack, and Kade is there to save Scarlett. All is going well then Bryce has Scarlett, a fight with Kade, then Bryce grabs a gun and was going to shoot Kade, but Frank was there and saved him by shooting Bryce. Phew!
They save Scarlett, but she wants to avoid Kade, then he starts sending flowers telling her things she doesn't know about her, winning her heart again, and they get back together.
Kade goes to Scarlett's, get into a fight with Bryce and Bryce tells him he is undercover and trying to take Frank down for two years, and needs Kade's help to get it done. Kade stays with Scarlett and they get back together, wild passion and sex happens for hours! Kade gets closer to Frank, but then there is a twist. Bryce is working for Vic Trapani, took money from him to deliver dirt on Frank because he wants to wipe out the other Mob boss in tow and the family. Frank is too smart, saw it coming, didn't trust Bryce and that is why he sucked Frank back in. Bryce kidnaps Scarlett and she is held at Vic's house, safe but still captive.
Frank makes a decision to surprise Vic and family with surprise attack, and Kade is there to save Scarlett. All is going well then Bryce has Scarlett, a fight with Kade, then Bryce grabs a gun and was going to shoot Kade, but Frank was there and saved him by shooting Bryce. Phew!
They save Scarlett, but she wants to avoid Kade, then he starts sending flowers telling her things she doesn't know about her, winning her heart again, and they get back together.
December 23, 2013
NOTE: You must read Lifeless before My Beautiful
My Beautiful picks up exactly where Lifeless left off then jumps ahead a few months. All of the important folks from Lifeless are part of this story as well, including Jules, Brent, Bryce and Kade. Scarlett has tried to move on from Kade’s betrayal, but she is still gutted trying to figure out why she is never enough for someone to be able to love her. Bryce throws her for a loop when he makes it clear to her that, if and when she is ready to move on, he is waiting for her on the other side. And then Kade sends her a gift after months of no contact, leaving Scarlett to wonder just what the heck is going on. When Jules presents her with an opportunity for a change of scenery, she is only too happy to take it.
In the meantime, we are taken along for the ride with Kade as he is sucked into a world he wants no part of and tries to figure out how he can get out once and for all to get back to the life and people he loves. I liked the alternating POVs between Scarlett and Kade to see and understand what each is thinking, and there is a substantial amount of time devoted to Kade in this second installment. There is action, there is suspense, and there is definitely a lot of heat when these two finally meet up again- oh and throw in a plot twist along the way to round things out.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. We are left with a nice resolution to Scarlett and Kade’s story and it seems that all the loose ends were cleanly wrapped up. I am looking forward to seeing what J.M. LaRocca brings our way next!
Many thanks to Ms. LaRocca for providing an ARC in return for an honest review.
My Beautiful picks up exactly where Lifeless left off then jumps ahead a few months. All of the important folks from Lifeless are part of this story as well, including Jules, Brent, Bryce and Kade. Scarlett has tried to move on from Kade’s betrayal, but she is still gutted trying to figure out why she is never enough for someone to be able to love her. Bryce throws her for a loop when he makes it clear to her that, if and when she is ready to move on, he is waiting for her on the other side. And then Kade sends her a gift after months of no contact, leaving Scarlett to wonder just what the heck is going on. When Jules presents her with an opportunity for a change of scenery, she is only too happy to take it.
In the meantime, we are taken along for the ride with Kade as he is sucked into a world he wants no part of and tries to figure out how he can get out once and for all to get back to the life and people he loves. I liked the alternating POVs between Scarlett and Kade to see and understand what each is thinking, and there is a substantial amount of time devoted to Kade in this second installment. There is action, there is suspense, and there is definitely a lot of heat when these two finally meet up again- oh and throw in a plot twist along the way to round things out.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. We are left with a nice resolution to Scarlett and Kade’s story and it seems that all the loose ends were cleanly wrapped up. I am looking forward to seeing what J.M. LaRocca brings our way next!
Many thanks to Ms. LaRocca for providing an ARC in return for an honest review.
November 26, 2013
My Beautiful by J.M. LaRocca
4.5 Stars
This is the follow up to Lifeless (I would say make sure you have red that so you are not lost!) and it starts 8 months after Kade makes his exit back to LA, leaving Scarlett heartbroken. As it turns out Jules gets a huge promotion to start another office up and wants to take Scarlett with her so they can still live and work together. Scarlett accepts and the duo are off to begin their new lives in…LA! She gets settled into her job, meets some new friends and things start to look up for her…until she runs into Kade’s bandmates.
At this point Kade is a hot mess. He has submerged himself into the “family” business hoping to find a way to bring his uncle down. If he can just figure out a way to get evidence he has high hopes to get Scarlett back. Only his uncle is not making it easy for him and Kade is getting frustrated but pushes forward doing things he would never think of doing. Of course his band gives him the heads up that Scarlett is now living in the same city as him and he realizes he cant be without her.
As you can guess their reunion is HOT! But Kade is still in deep with his family corruption and deceit and lies start to come out. He decides yet again its not safe for Scarlett to be around him so he backs off from her. Or does he? People are not who they seem and there are some intense moments. Just when you think these two will have a happy ending there is another twist and more drama! However, I must say that I liked the ending and how things played out and would love to see Jules and Brent get their own book, I have a feeling Brent’s line of business would make a great story.
4.5 Stars
This is the follow up to Lifeless (I would say make sure you have red that so you are not lost!) and it starts 8 months after Kade makes his exit back to LA, leaving Scarlett heartbroken. As it turns out Jules gets a huge promotion to start another office up and wants to take Scarlett with her so they can still live and work together. Scarlett accepts and the duo are off to begin their new lives in…LA! She gets settled into her job, meets some new friends and things start to look up for her…until she runs into Kade’s bandmates.
At this point Kade is a hot mess. He has submerged himself into the “family” business hoping to find a way to bring his uncle down. If he can just figure out a way to get evidence he has high hopes to get Scarlett back. Only his uncle is not making it easy for him and Kade is getting frustrated but pushes forward doing things he would never think of doing. Of course his band gives him the heads up that Scarlett is now living in the same city as him and he realizes he cant be without her.
As you can guess their reunion is HOT! But Kade is still in deep with his family corruption and deceit and lies start to come out. He decides yet again its not safe for Scarlett to be around him so he backs off from her. Or does he? People are not who they seem and there are some intense moments. Just when you think these two will have a happy ending there is another twist and more drama! However, I must say that I liked the ending and how things played out and would love to see Jules and Brent get their own book, I have a feeling Brent’s line of business would make a great story.
January 10, 2014
Read more reviews at A Lust For Reading I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Book one, Lifeless, ended with a cliffhanger and this books picks up eight months later. Kade and Scarlett have not seen each other since that lat night in Atlanta 8 month ago. During that time, Scarlett has tried to pick up the pieces of her shattered heart and move on with her life. Meanwhile, Kade has been pretending to be interested in his uncle's mob empire in hopes of finding a way out. When their paths cross again, will he be able to push Scarlett away once more?
Finally Kade and Scarlett are thrown back together and I was glued to my Kindle to see how this would play out. What I really enjoyed about in My Beautiful is that the "misunderstanding" between them is not long and drawn out or overfilled with angst. No, they got to the point and move forward and that was refreshing. The mob aspect adds a layer of suspense and I found myself genuinely intrigued by what would happen next. There is a pretty big twist in here somewhere and it totally caught me off guard. Usually I can somewhat see it coming, but not this time. It left me proud of some characters and incredibly disappointed in others but it all fit perfectly into this story. I would have liked to see a bigger glimpse into their future in the epilogue, but I found this to be a very satisfying conclusion to Kade's and Scarlett's story.
Important note: This is not a stand alone novel and book one, Lifeless, should be read first.
Book one, Lifeless, ended with a cliffhanger and this books picks up eight months later. Kade and Scarlett have not seen each other since that lat night in Atlanta 8 month ago. During that time, Scarlett has tried to pick up the pieces of her shattered heart and move on with her life. Meanwhile, Kade has been pretending to be interested in his uncle's mob empire in hopes of finding a way out. When their paths cross again, will he be able to push Scarlett away once more?
Finally Kade and Scarlett are thrown back together and I was glued to my Kindle to see how this would play out. What I really enjoyed about in My Beautiful is that the "misunderstanding" between them is not long and drawn out or overfilled with angst. No, they got to the point and move forward and that was refreshing. The mob aspect adds a layer of suspense and I found myself genuinely intrigued by what would happen next. There is a pretty big twist in here somewhere and it totally caught me off guard. Usually I can somewhat see it coming, but not this time. It left me proud of some characters and incredibly disappointed in others but it all fit perfectly into this story. I would have liked to see a bigger glimpse into their future in the epilogue, but I found this to be a very satisfying conclusion to Kade's and Scarlett's story.
Important note: This is not a stand alone novel and book one, Lifeless, should be read first.
March 4, 2014
Reviewed By Laura
OMFG! At last the much awaited sequel to Lifeless, which means, more Kade and more Bryce! After the almighty cliff-hanger at the end of Lifeless which saw Scarlett kissing Bryce, I couldn’t wait for My Beautiful and I wasn’t disappointed in the slightest.
Scarlett and Kade have been separated for 8 months now and neither of them are happy. Scarlett also has to fight her small but growing feelings for her step brother Bryce after the kiss at the end of Lifeless. Bryce promised Kade he would look out for Scarlett when their split.
Kade, at the end of Lifeless, broke Scarlett’s heart to protect her from the “family”. Kade’s uncle, a criminal hard man who shows no mercy to anyone, has Kade right where he wants him and to protect Scarlett, Kade must follow in his uncle’s footsteps and prove to his Uncle he can be part of the “Family”.
After Scarlett takes up a new job in LA, she bumps into Kade again and all the old feelings between them come back to the surface. They decide to try again after realising they have both been miserable apart but in order to keep Scarlett safe, they must keep their relationship a secret.
Will Scarlett & Kade live happily ever after or will something or even someone set out to ruin what they have to get their own way?
This book is a very very worthy 5 stars and if you haven’t read the first one I strongly recommend you do to fully appreciate the roller-coaster of a ride that Jennifer La Rocca has in store for you!
OMFG! At last the much awaited sequel to Lifeless, which means, more Kade and more Bryce! After the almighty cliff-hanger at the end of Lifeless which saw Scarlett kissing Bryce, I couldn’t wait for My Beautiful and I wasn’t disappointed in the slightest.
Scarlett and Kade have been separated for 8 months now and neither of them are happy. Scarlett also has to fight her small but growing feelings for her step brother Bryce after the kiss at the end of Lifeless. Bryce promised Kade he would look out for Scarlett when their split.
Kade, at the end of Lifeless, broke Scarlett’s heart to protect her from the “family”. Kade’s uncle, a criminal hard man who shows no mercy to anyone, has Kade right where he wants him and to protect Scarlett, Kade must follow in his uncle’s footsteps and prove to his Uncle he can be part of the “Family”.
After Scarlett takes up a new job in LA, she bumps into Kade again and all the old feelings between them come back to the surface. They decide to try again after realising they have both been miserable apart but in order to keep Scarlett safe, they must keep their relationship a secret.
Will Scarlett & Kade live happily ever after or will something or even someone set out to ruin what they have to get their own way?
This book is a very very worthy 5 stars and if you haven’t read the first one I strongly recommend you do to fully appreciate the roller-coaster of a ride that Jennifer La Rocca has in store for you!
January 6, 2014
OMFG! At last the much awaited sequel to Lifeless, which means, more Kade and more Bryce! After the almighty cliff-hanger at the end of Lifeless which saw Scarlett kissing Bryce, I couldn’t wait for My Beautiful and I wasn’t disappointed in the slightest.
Scarlett and Kade have been separated for 8 months now and neither of them are happy. Scarlett also has to fight her small but growing feelings for her step brother Bryce after the kiss at the end of Lifeless. Bryce promised Kade he would look out for Scarlett when their split.
Kade, at the end of Lifeless, broke Scarlett’s heart to protect her from the "family". Kade’s uncle, a criminal hard man who shows no mercy to anyone, has Kade right where he wants him and to protect Scarlett, Kade must follow in his uncle's footsteps and prove to his Uncle he can be part of the "Family".
After Scarlett takes up a new job in LA, she bumps into Kade again and all the old feelings between them come back to the surface. They decide to try again after realising they have both been miserable apart but in order to keep Scarlett safe, they must keep their relationship a secret.
Will Scarlett & Kade live happily ever after or will something or even someone set out to ruin what they have to get their own way?
This book is a very very worthy 5 stars and if you haven’t read the first one I strongly recommend you do to fully appreciate the roller-coaster of a ride that Jennifer La Rocca has in store for you!
Scarlett and Kade have been separated for 8 months now and neither of them are happy. Scarlett also has to fight her small but growing feelings for her step brother Bryce after the kiss at the end of Lifeless. Bryce promised Kade he would look out for Scarlett when their split.
Kade, at the end of Lifeless, broke Scarlett’s heart to protect her from the "family". Kade’s uncle, a criminal hard man who shows no mercy to anyone, has Kade right where he wants him and to protect Scarlett, Kade must follow in his uncle's footsteps and prove to his Uncle he can be part of the "Family".
After Scarlett takes up a new job in LA, she bumps into Kade again and all the old feelings between them come back to the surface. They decide to try again after realising they have both been miserable apart but in order to keep Scarlett safe, they must keep their relationship a secret.
Will Scarlett & Kade live happily ever after or will something or even someone set out to ruin what they have to get their own way?
This book is a very very worthy 5 stars and if you haven’t read the first one I strongly recommend you do to fully appreciate the roller-coaster of a ride that Jennifer La Rocca has in store for you!
August 11, 2016
I received and ARC for an honest review, and honestly I really liked it.
Stop. If you haven't read Lifeless (book 1) please do or you will be hopelessly lost for the first couple of chapters like I was.
My Beautiful started off strong, right into the story and never stopped. I got a quick feel for the characters and their chemistry. I was a little behind the eight ball not having had read book 1 but I didn't let that stop me. JM Larocca writes a beautiful character with lots of personality and story line was good too. It was nice to read a story where the focal point wasn't the hot n steamy sex...it was the suspense. Would Kade and Scarlett get back together, would Scarlett start dating Bryce? Could Jules or Brent be working on the side with Frank? or the Trapani's??? Once I got the feel for the characters and the story dynamics, I really didn't want to put the book down until I knew for sure if I could be right. So I read and reead...forsaking facebook, dinner, dishes and laundry! Even though I read book 2 first, I've already gotten book 1, Lifeless now sitting on my kindle. I'm going to go back, read Lifeless and then My Beautiful all in a weekend so I can reap the full benefits of JM Larocca's talent. I really enjoyed Kade's POV, but then I'm a sucker for the guys POV anyhow. The dual POV's in My Beautiful were beautifully done and didn't get too repetitive. Can't wait to sit down and bask in a Kade laden weekend from beginning to end.
Stop. If you haven't read Lifeless (book 1) please do or you will be hopelessly lost for the first couple of chapters like I was.
My Beautiful started off strong, right into the story and never stopped. I got a quick feel for the characters and their chemistry. I was a little behind the eight ball not having had read book 1 but I didn't let that stop me. JM Larocca writes a beautiful character with lots of personality and story line was good too. It was nice to read a story where the focal point wasn't the hot n steamy sex...it was the suspense. Would Kade and Scarlett get back together, would Scarlett start dating Bryce? Could Jules or Brent be working on the side with Frank? or the Trapani's??? Once I got the feel for the characters and the story dynamics, I really didn't want to put the book down until I knew for sure if I could be right. So I read and reead...forsaking facebook, dinner, dishes and laundry! Even though I read book 2 first, I've already gotten book 1, Lifeless now sitting on my kindle. I'm going to go back, read Lifeless and then My Beautiful all in a weekend so I can reap the full benefits of JM Larocca's talent. I really enjoyed Kade's POV, but then I'm a sucker for the guys POV anyhow. The dual POV's in My Beautiful were beautifully done and didn't get too repetitive. Can't wait to sit down and bask in a Kade laden weekend from beginning to end.
January 16, 2014
My Beautiful is the follow-up book to Lifeless. It picks up where Lifeless left off so you will have to be sure to read it first.
We are now eight months later since Kade and Scarlett ended their relationship. Kade is struggling to work through his personal demons that caused their breakup but no matter what he does, he can’t seem to get Scarlett out of his mind and his heart.
Scarlett has been heartbroken but yet ready to start a new life. When she relocates to California, the last thing she wants to do is to run into Kade. But, no matter what she does she can’t get him out of her heart. I mean, hot rock star, who couldn’t?
I won’t reveal a lot of this story because there is so much that can be spoiled if I do. I loved to see how hurt they both were and what Kade was willing to do to get her back. The plot does thicken when she is put in danger and it terrifies him to know he may lose the love of his life.
“You’ve changed me in ways I didn’t think possible. You balance me and make me want to be a better person. I can’t imagine you not being in my life.” – Kade
There are a lot of twists and turns, some of which I least expected which made for a great story. To see what Kade had to do to try and work his way back to her was heroic and left me head over heels for him. Like I said, I can’t reveal a lot because there are curveballs thrown in that make it a great read and I felt myself drawn in and captivated by their story.
December 21, 2013
Review posted at: http://bookcrushbookreviews.com/2013/...
Rating: 4 stars
This is the angst-driven sequel to Lifeless. The prologue picks up right where Lifeless ended so we don't miss a beat of Kade & Scarlett's story. All of my unanswered questions from Lifeless were answered in My Beautiful, but they didn't come easy. Kade and his Uncle Frank's lifestyle kept me on the edge of my seat as I learned firsthand that you can't trust anyone in this game. I found my heart racing from the fear, my face grimacing due to frustration, and my mouth grinning at the sexy-parts. It's the perfect mix in a story for me. I found myself wanting more information about Kade's parents regarding what happened and why Kade owes it to his family, so these details were left open-ended for me. The hidden agendas kept my brain thinking of what could possible happen next. Scarlett's job in this installment seemed less of a focus and I definitely missed getting the emotional details of Kade's song writing and music career. When those parts are referenced, I was definitely swooning and longing to hear what he was writing. If you enjoy a love story with some sexy hot scenes mixed with some angst-filled action/suspense this is your type of read! Give it a try!!
Rating: 4 stars
This is the angst-driven sequel to Lifeless. The prologue picks up right where Lifeless ended so we don't miss a beat of Kade & Scarlett's story. All of my unanswered questions from Lifeless were answered in My Beautiful, but they didn't come easy. Kade and his Uncle Frank's lifestyle kept me on the edge of my seat as I learned firsthand that you can't trust anyone in this game. I found my heart racing from the fear, my face grimacing due to frustration, and my mouth grinning at the sexy-parts. It's the perfect mix in a story for me. I found myself wanting more information about Kade's parents regarding what happened and why Kade owes it to his family, so these details were left open-ended for me. The hidden agendas kept my brain thinking of what could possible happen next. Scarlett's job in this installment seemed less of a focus and I definitely missed getting the emotional details of Kade's song writing and music career. When those parts are referenced, I was definitely swooning and longing to hear what he was writing. If you enjoy a love story with some sexy hot scenes mixed with some angst-filled action/suspense this is your type of read! Give it a try!!
September 10, 2016
Our Rating 4 Stars
Kade walked away from the woman he loved to protect her from the family he despises. He feared for her safety even though the time away from her left him empty and lost.
~This Review May Contain Spoilers~
Scarlett lost Kade but she never stopped loving him. The last vision she had broke her heart. He was snuggled up with a slut from her office. He walked away from her and left her heart shattered into pieces.
After Eight months Jules and Scarlett are transferred to LA to lead the new office that has been opened.
Scarlett now finds herself in the same city as the man that broke her but yet the only one that can fix her. Her heart is still completely in his hands. To her surprise Kade is still in love with her and never stopped. She finds the truth behind the entire charade...
Sparks fly and it all heats up between Scarlett and Kade once they find themselves alone...
Who can she trust and who should she fear is the question.
She finds in the end the one person she thought she could turn to and trust...is the last person she ever expected to be the enemy.
In the end you get our HEA but surely not without a lot of drama and some scary mob actions from Kade's family. They force him to be someone he is not but in the end will he be as bad as they are or will he be the man Scarlett needs him to be?
Kade walked away from the woman he loved to protect her from the family he despises. He feared for her safety even though the time away from her left him empty and lost.
~This Review May Contain Spoilers~
Scarlett lost Kade but she never stopped loving him. The last vision she had broke her heart. He was snuggled up with a slut from her office. He walked away from her and left her heart shattered into pieces.
After Eight months Jules and Scarlett are transferred to LA to lead the new office that has been opened.
Scarlett now finds herself in the same city as the man that broke her but yet the only one that can fix her. Her heart is still completely in his hands. To her surprise Kade is still in love with her and never stopped. She finds the truth behind the entire charade...
Sparks fly and it all heats up between Scarlett and Kade once they find themselves alone...
Who can she trust and who should she fear is the question.
She finds in the end the one person she thought she could turn to and trust...is the last person she ever expected to be the enemy.
In the end you get our HEA but surely not without a lot of drama and some scary mob actions from Kade's family. They force him to be someone he is not but in the end will he be as bad as they are or will he be the man Scarlett needs him to be?
January 8, 2014
4.5 Stars
I love when I read a sequel and enjoy it even more than the first book! And I LOVED My Beautiful!
This book has all of the things I look for in a book-exciting plot- Mafia-FBI- who is the bad guy? Forbidden/difficult love story. Passion and hot steamy bits. Alpha male that adores the heroine. Heroine that is smart, confident and sweet. Fantastic friends. Drama, angst and WTH moments. Check x 7.
This is a powerful thriller with some incredible twists thrown in. Scarlett and Kade are reunited early in this book- and I am so glad. Brett creeped me out- didn’t trust him at all. Even when Scarlett sees or is told difficult things about Kade she tries to talk herself down from the over reaction ledge! They are wonderful together. Having this book written in dual POV really works.
Kade- morally conflicted Alpha-yuuuum! He is so over the moon for Scarlett and continues to try and protect her, but is still trusting the wrong people.
When this story all comes together- HOLY S^&%! While I may have suspected the plot twist when it came around I loved it. This is a well-written, fast paced story that will keep you guessing. And waiting to read more from this talented author!
I love when I read a sequel and enjoy it even more than the first book! And I LOVED My Beautiful!
This book has all of the things I look for in a book-exciting plot- Mafia-FBI- who is the bad guy? Forbidden/difficult love story. Passion and hot steamy bits. Alpha male that adores the heroine. Heroine that is smart, confident and sweet. Fantastic friends. Drama, angst and WTH moments. Check x 7.
This is a powerful thriller with some incredible twists thrown in. Scarlett and Kade are reunited early in this book- and I am so glad. Brett creeped me out- didn’t trust him at all. Even when Scarlett sees or is told difficult things about Kade she tries to talk herself down from the over reaction ledge! They are wonderful together. Having this book written in dual POV really works.
Kade- morally conflicted Alpha-yuuuum! He is so over the moon for Scarlett and continues to try and protect her, but is still trusting the wrong people.
When this story all comes together- HOLY S^&%! While I may have suspected the plot twist when it came around I loved it. This is a well-written, fast paced story that will keep you guessing. And waiting to read more from this talented author!
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