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The Game Maker #1.1
The Professional: Part 1
He makes the rules . . .
Mafiya enforcer Aleksandr "The Siberian" Sevastyan’s loyalty to his boss is unwavering, until he meets the boss’s long-lost daughter, a curvy, tantalizing redhead who haunts his mind and heats his blood like no other. Ordered to protect her, Sevastyan will do anything to possess her as well—on his own wicked terms.
Rules are made to be broken . . .
PhD student Natalie Porter had barely recovered from her first sight of the breathtakingly gorgeous Sevastyan before the professional hit man whisks her away to Russia, thrusting her into a world of extreme wealth and wanton pleasures. With every day she spends under his protection, she falls deeper under his masterful spell.
Are you ready to play?
Yet all is not as it seems. To remove Natalie from an enemy’s reach, Sevastyan spirits her into hiding. From an opulent palace in Russia to the decadent playgrounds of the mega-wealthy in Paris, the two lovers will discover that even their darkest—and most forbidden—fantasies can come true…
Mafiya enforcer Aleksandr "The Siberian" Sevastyan’s loyalty to his boss is unwavering, until he meets the boss’s long-lost daughter, a curvy, tantalizing redhead who haunts his mind and heats his blood like no other. Ordered to protect her, Sevastyan will do anything to possess her as well—on his own wicked terms.
Rules are made to be broken . . .
PhD student Natalie Porter had barely recovered from her first sight of the breathtakingly gorgeous Sevastyan before the professional hit man whisks her away to Russia, thrusting her into a world of extreme wealth and wanton pleasures. With every day she spends under his protection, she falls deeper under his masterful spell.
Are you ready to play?
Yet all is not as it seems. To remove Natalie from an enemy’s reach, Sevastyan spirits her into hiding. From an opulent palace in Russia to the decadent playgrounds of the mega-wealthy in Paris, the two lovers will discover that even their darkest—and most forbidden—fantasies can come true…
120 pages, ebook
First published December 16, 2013
115 people are currently reading
5470 people want to read
About the author
Kresley Cole
67 books27.5k followersKresley Cole is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the electrifying Immortals After Dark paranormal series, the young adult Arcana Chronicles series, the erotic Gamemakers series, and five award-winning historical romances.
A master’s grad and former athlete, she has traveled over much of the world and draws from those experiences to create her memorable characters and settings.
Her IAD books have been translated into 23 foreign languages, garnered three RITA awards, a RWA Hall of Fame induction, and consistently appear on the bestseller lists, in the U.S. and abroad.
Cole lives in Florida with her family. Learn more about Kresley at: www.kresleycole.com & www.thearcanachronicles.com
A master’s grad and former athlete, she has traveled over much of the world and draws from those experiences to create her memorable characters and settings.
Her IAD books have been translated into 23 foreign languages, garnered three RITA awards, a RWA Hall of Fame induction, and consistently appear on the bestseller lists, in the U.S. and abroad.
Cole lives in Florida with her family. Learn more about Kresley at: www.kresleycole.com & www.thearcanachronicles.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 733 reviews
September 3, 2016
DNF at 48% but I skimmed to the end. Warning: tons of sarcasm because I can’t help myself. Read at your own risk. Not giving out spoiler alerts because I’m past caring.
So this was my first Kresley Cole book...and it was a bust. I mean, I saw that the blurb had tagged it as “erotica series” but wow, I sure underestimated the amount of ‘erotica’ in the story. Let me be honest here. I didn’t pop open this book because of the erotica label. I did it for the advertised suspense on the blurb, for the whole bodyguard routine, and the forbidden relationship since he’s the protector and she’s mob-daddy’s daughter. Too bad the plot part didn’t deliver, and I was left with a book riddled with a FSoG-like seduction.
BUT because the blurb labeled this entire series as ‘erotica,’ I won’t critique it on the lack of a suspenseful plot.
Natalya/Natalie is a smartie, or so she claims.
“I had an uncanny knack for sizing up males – I was a regular ‘manalyst.’ My secret? I always went negative, and the guys, well they always accommodated.”
Apparently she’s qualified to pass judgment on guys from just a glance. Impressive.
“From left to right then? Inveterate gambler, habitual drunk, and – how should I put this? – the third is illequipped.”
Oh really. How do you know?
Anyways, I just thought that was eerie. But wait!! Her mad skills don’t work on our hero! Surprise, surprise.
And this is where I knew I wouldn’t like this book. Insta-lust time!! I despise insta-anything. Insta-love, insta-lust, you name it, and this book had insta-lust that annoyed the crap out of me. Just a page ago, she’s a cold fish and now that she’s seen Hottie McHottie, she needs to fan herself and is constantly flustered.
Yeah. NO.
I admit, his Russian accent got to me, and is probably the only thing I liked about him. Other than that, he’s the worst excuse for a bodyguard. His very first conversation with Natalie he acts like a degrading bastard, and from then on out, addresses her as ‘pet.’ Ummm. Where did that come from? Plus when he breaks into her apartment and demands her to leave with him in 5 minutes, it’s totally plausible for a seasoned, professional hit man to let her wear only a bathrobe, and then proceed to haul her over his shoulder, letting her screech her lungs out, and continues to walk down the street like nothing happened. Totally what professional hit men do.
Can you feel my sarcasm?
And ugh, I don’t even want to go into their first ‘erotic’ scene because it was a FAIL. Just know that when it’s all said and done he goes:
“That shouldn’t have happened.”
Wonderful. The ‘I regret it’ scene. Plus when he finds out she’s a 24 year old virgin, he goes bonkers. Can he be anymore of a pussy? Go in for the temporary pleasure and grow some 'morals' afterward? Mighty convenient for you.
And so that is where I stopped. If the book got better in the second half, kudos to the author and great for readers. If not, sucks donkey balls.
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Please note that all quotes are from an advanced copy and may be subject to change in the final edition.
So this was my first Kresley Cole book...and it was a bust. I mean, I saw that the blurb had tagged it as “erotica series” but wow, I sure underestimated the amount of ‘erotica’ in the story. Let me be honest here. I didn’t pop open this book because of the erotica label. I did it for the advertised suspense on the blurb, for the whole bodyguard routine, and the forbidden relationship since he’s the protector and she’s mob-daddy’s daughter. Too bad the plot part didn’t deliver, and I was left with a book riddled with a FSoG-like seduction.
BUT because the blurb labeled this entire series as ‘erotica,’ I won’t critique it on the lack of a suspenseful plot.
Natalya/Natalie is a smartie, or so she claims.
“I had an uncanny knack for sizing up males – I was a regular ‘manalyst.’ My secret? I always went negative, and the guys, well they always accommodated.”
Apparently she’s qualified to pass judgment on guys from just a glance. Impressive.
“From left to right then? Inveterate gambler, habitual drunk, and – how should I put this? – the third is illequipped.”
Oh really. How do you know?
Anyways, I just thought that was eerie. But wait!! Her mad skills don’t work on our hero! Surprise, surprise.
And this is where I knew I wouldn’t like this book. Insta-lust time!! I despise insta-anything. Insta-love, insta-lust, you name it, and this book had insta-lust that annoyed the crap out of me. Just a page ago, she’s a cold fish and now that she’s seen Hottie McHottie, she needs to fan herself and is constantly flustered.
Yeah. NO.
I admit, his Russian accent got to me, and is probably the only thing I liked about him. Other than that, he’s the worst excuse for a bodyguard. His very first conversation with Natalie he acts like a degrading bastard, and from then on out, addresses her as ‘pet.’ Ummm. Where did that come from? Plus when he breaks into her apartment and demands her to leave with him in 5 minutes, it’s totally plausible for a seasoned, professional hit man to let her wear only a bathrobe, and then proceed to haul her over his shoulder, letting her screech her lungs out, and continues to walk down the street like nothing happened. Totally what professional hit men do.
Can you feel my sarcasm?
And ugh, I don’t even want to go into their first ‘erotic’ scene because it was a FAIL. Just know that when it’s all said and done he goes:
“That shouldn’t have happened.”
Wonderful. The ‘I regret it’ scene. Plus when he finds out she’s a 24 year old virgin, he goes bonkers. Can he be anymore of a pussy? Go in for the temporary pleasure and grow some 'morals' afterward? Mighty convenient for you.
And so that is where I stopped. If the book got better in the second half, kudos to the author and great for readers. If not, sucks donkey balls.
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Please note that all quotes are from an advanced copy and may be subject to change in the final edition.
December 16, 2013
Wow. I really had no idea how Kresley Cole would go from her Immortals After Dark series to some contemporary/erotic/suspense/romance. And let me tell you, I was fairly blown away. I knew I'd like the hero, but I ended up really, REALLY liking him. And still two more installments to get to know him better! Le sigh...
MY SYNOPSIS:
The story starts out as a typical young innocent miss meets big ole bruiser bad boy. But this is only surface level in this somewhat unconventional story. Natalie is an ordinary American girl, raised by her adoptive parents in the Midwest and is now using the reliable work ethics that her farmgirl upbringing taught her in order to work three jobs and finish up her degree. When her attempts to track down her Russian birth parents ends up at a dead end, she resolves to try again later.
Only...it seems her inquiries did not go unnoticed, and Aleksandr "The Siberian" Sevastyan shows up searching for her.
Before she knows it, she is whisked away to a world of opulence and utter indulgence, but her small town roots hold her fast. And while Natalie is fascinated with Sevastyan and she KNOWS he desires her as well, their lives can't seem to mesh. Sevastyan is an enforcer in the Russian mafia, he's huge and tattooed and everyone seems to fear him. Except for Natalie. His passions are intense and verge on scary, but no one has ever excited her nearly so much as he has.
MY THOUGHTS:
I'm giggling like a teenager right now, because I am BEYOND READY for the next installment. I can't wait to get more of Sevasyan, the sexy beast of a man. He loves to be bossy in the bedroom, but he has some gentle in his soul and let me tell you, he is exactly the kind of book boyfriend I can fall in love with.
Natalie is quite the likeable heroine. She's a bit bowled over by the raw sexuality that Sevastyan exudes, and she quickly discovers her own desires once she comes into close contact with her new Russian obsession. (Let's not kid ourselves, the girl wants Sevastyan badly). She's along for this crazy ride, finding out a lot more about herself than she bargained for.
** This is part one of what I believe will be a three part series. I wouldn't lump it with the serial novels though. The starting price is only $1.99 for 150 pages so if the next two follow suit, it'll be somewhere around six bucks for 450 pages. That's a good deal from this author. And yes...this has a cliffhanger! Y'all know how I hate those cliffies but each installment is only a month away, so again it skirts the issues I have with both serials and cliffhangers. I'm okay with both aspect in this case.
Anyone who loves an alpha. loves a gamma, anyone ready for a different spin on erotic romance; who craves some danger along with some tenderness...read this book! This is a book about a couple not meant for each other except in their hearts. It's about the Russian mafia and opulence that few get to experience. It's a complete escape that makes me want to jump inside the pages and live it up! Five big stars from me!!!!!!!!
ARC provided by publisher for review
MY SYNOPSIS:
The story starts out as a typical young innocent miss meets big ole bruiser bad boy. But this is only surface level in this somewhat unconventional story. Natalie is an ordinary American girl, raised by her adoptive parents in the Midwest and is now using the reliable work ethics that her farmgirl upbringing taught her in order to work three jobs and finish up her degree. When her attempts to track down her Russian birth parents ends up at a dead end, she resolves to try again later.
Only...it seems her inquiries did not go unnoticed, and Aleksandr "The Siberian" Sevastyan shows up searching for her.
Before she knows it, she is whisked away to a world of opulence and utter indulgence, but her small town roots hold her fast. And while Natalie is fascinated with Sevastyan and she KNOWS he desires her as well, their lives can't seem to mesh. Sevastyan is an enforcer in the Russian mafia, he's huge and tattooed and everyone seems to fear him. Except for Natalie. His passions are intense and verge on scary, but no one has ever excited her nearly so much as he has. MY THOUGHTS:
I'm giggling like a teenager right now, because I am BEYOND READY for the next installment. I can't wait to get more of Sevasyan, the sexy beast of a man. He loves to be bossy in the bedroom, but he has some gentle in his soul and let me tell you, he is exactly the kind of book boyfriend I can fall in love with.
Natalie is quite the likeable heroine. She's a bit bowled over by the raw sexuality that Sevastyan exudes, and she quickly discovers her own desires once she comes into close contact with her new Russian obsession. (Let's not kid ourselves, the girl wants Sevastyan badly). She's along for this crazy ride, finding out a lot more about herself than she bargained for.
** This is part one of what I believe will be a three part series. I wouldn't lump it with the serial novels though. The starting price is only $1.99 for 150 pages so if the next two follow suit, it'll be somewhere around six bucks for 450 pages. That's a good deal from this author. And yes...this has a cliffhanger! Y'all know how I hate those cliffies but each installment is only a month away, so again it skirts the issues I have with both serials and cliffhangers. I'm okay with both aspect in this case.
Anyone who loves an alpha. loves a gamma, anyone ready for a different spin on erotic romance; who craves some danger along with some tenderness...read this book! This is a book about a couple not meant for each other except in their hearts. It's about the Russian mafia and opulence that few get to experience. It's a complete escape that makes me want to jump inside the pages and live it up! Five big stars from me!!!!!!!!
ARC provided by publisher for review
January 7, 2014
3.5 stars. Sometimes you just gotta embrace the cheese. 99% of the time, I prefer to do my embracing with paranormal or historical romances. I rarely let cringe-worthy moments or sketchy behavior slide when it comes to contemporaries. After all, contemporaries aren't supposed to be fake in a silly way. They're supposed to be at least somewhat relatable when it comes to life as we know it. In a PNR, if a wolf-man wants to mark his territory all over a helpless woman, whatever - it's a fantasy world. In a contemporary, when an asshole male wants to go super-possessive in the world that WE live in, it can seem extreme to the point of being uncomfortable.
Despite my normal hesitations, I found myself going along with the mood set in The Professional. I do have some sort of guilt over feeding my fascination with a man who was, essentially, a stalker. So, yes, the man was stalking - but he was hired to do so (and he wasn't actually considering his "job" foreplay like many other romance heroes would, no matter how much he lusted after his target). But from where I was sitting, he wasn't the major problem. Instead, it was the woman, who was completely clueless by not asking near enough questions about why she was being "kidnapped." ATTENTION CLUELESS WOMAN : YOU JUST FOUND OUT THAT YOUR DAD IS A MAFIA BIGWIG. THE GUY YOU WANT TO HOOK UP WITH IS A KILLER. GIVE YOURSELF A MOMENT TO FREAK OUT AND HESITATE BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH MORE CAUTION.
But I have a thing for Russian bodyguard types, and Sevastyn made me want to know more about him. Even when he was doing the typical ahole alpha thing, I felt like there was more to him than just being this cardboard male who wanted to be in control. Even the little grain of difference helped me warm to this man.
Some of my happy boxes were ticked with the sexual tension. I sort of hope that the hinting toward BDSM in future books isn't going to end up imitating other trending series. I'd much prefer the relationship to emerge into something where both people find exactly what they're looking for in the bedroom, instead of watching a woman who can't think for herself get pushed into changing who she is.
Back to the cheese. I've read Kresley Cole before, so the lingo was expected. I could see where it would be a stumbling block for others who aren't used to reading over-the-top paranormals (bad sexual lingo is pretty much the standard for more erotic leaning pnr, unfortunately). Does this mean that I want to read about someone "spurting ropes of cum" or his "stiff rod pillaging her core?" Not particularly.
Cons :
Female lead who is a virgin but acts like a cat in heat for reasons unexplained (and shows a strange lack of fear over dangerous situations). It frustrates me when I like a story or the male lead, but don't really like the female lead, or find a couple to be unequally matched.
Lots-o-cheese when it comes to sex terminology. But again, I'm used to it with the author. It's just too bad she didn't leave the ridiculousness behind in her PNR.
Pros :
I have a thing for kidnap fantasy books. I know, I'm weird. But I just like it. Don't ask me to explain.
I have a thing for the hot, protective, Russian bodyguard types. If you don't have this fetish, you might not care. But my fetish trumps the majority of the cringe-worthy moments, enough so that I will HAVE to read the next book.
I enjoyed the read and it was just what I was in the mood for. I think I flew through it, smiling every time one of my pleasure boxes was ticked.
And then there's this :
Or there's the random interactions which amused me :
Hah.
This book provided from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All quotes taken from the pre-published copy and may be altered or omitted from the final copy.
Despite my normal hesitations, I found myself going along with the mood set in The Professional. I do have some sort of guilt over feeding my fascination with a man who was, essentially, a stalker. So, yes, the man was stalking - but he was hired to do so (and he wasn't actually considering his "job" foreplay like many other romance heroes would, no matter how much he lusted after his target). But from where I was sitting, he wasn't the major problem. Instead, it was the woman, who was completely clueless by not asking near enough questions about why she was being "kidnapped." ATTENTION CLUELESS WOMAN : YOU JUST FOUND OUT THAT YOUR DAD IS A MAFIA BIGWIG. THE GUY YOU WANT TO HOOK UP WITH IS A KILLER. GIVE YOURSELF A MOMENT TO FREAK OUT AND HESITATE BEFORE PROCEEDING WITH MORE CAUTION.
But I have a thing for Russian bodyguard types, and Sevastyn made me want to know more about him. Even when he was doing the typical ahole alpha thing, I felt like there was more to him than just being this cardboard male who wanted to be in control. Even the little grain of difference helped me warm to this man.
Some of my happy boxes were ticked with the sexual tension. I sort of hope that the hinting toward BDSM in future books isn't going to end up imitating other trending series. I'd much prefer the relationship to emerge into something where both people find exactly what they're looking for in the bedroom, instead of watching a woman who can't think for herself get pushed into changing who she is.
Back to the cheese. I've read Kresley Cole before, so the lingo was expected. I could see where it would be a stumbling block for others who aren't used to reading over-the-top paranormals (bad sexual lingo is pretty much the standard for more erotic leaning pnr, unfortunately). Does this mean that I want to read about someone "spurting ropes of cum" or his "stiff rod pillaging her core?" Not particularly.
Cons :
Female lead who is a virgin but acts like a cat in heat for reasons unexplained (and shows a strange lack of fear over dangerous situations). It frustrates me when I like a story or the male lead, but don't really like the female lead, or find a couple to be unequally matched.
Lots-o-cheese when it comes to sex terminology. But again, I'm used to it with the author. It's just too bad she didn't leave the ridiculousness behind in her PNR.
Pros :
I have a thing for kidnap fantasy books. I know, I'm weird. But I just like it. Don't ask me to explain.
I have a thing for the hot, protective, Russian bodyguard types. If you don't have this fetish, you might not care. But my fetish trumps the majority of the cringe-worthy moments, enough so that I will HAVE to read the next book.
I enjoyed the read and it was just what I was in the mood for. I think I flew through it, smiling every time one of my pleasure boxes was ticked.
And then there's this :
"Sdavaisya." Surrender.
Or there's the random interactions which amused me :
When my lips met his zipper and I moaned for more, he repeated, "Fuck you."
Hah.
This book provided from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All quotes taken from the pre-published copy and may be altered or omitted from the final copy.
December 15, 2013
**3.5 stars**
I was pretty excited when I saw that Kresley Cole, one of my favorite humorous paranormal authors, was starting a contemporary erotic romance series. I think fans of erotic romance will be pleased as hell by this story. It is all "bad boy meets virgin with a kinky side" and, honestly, it is pretty well done.
My favorite parts of this story were the funny one-liners. I swear, I laughed out loud at times. I think Kresley Cole can be incredibly witty if she wants to be. I wish there was a bit more of that, a bit more of the funny banter. Instead, it grew a little too "I take myself seriously" for my tastes.
My feelings on the sexy-times were a little mixed. I, for one, don't really like masturbation scenes, so I could have bypassed those. Also, I hate when girls breasts "swell" when they are aroused (am I the only one not blessed with magical boobs that change size when I'm turned on??). Even with my few issues, the intimate moments in this book were, in general, really hot, and left me wanting more.
I will certainly continue with this series because I think it has tons of potential. I'm excited to see how it all plays out.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I was pretty excited when I saw that Kresley Cole, one of my favorite humorous paranormal authors, was starting a contemporary erotic romance series. I think fans of erotic romance will be pleased as hell by this story. It is all "bad boy meets virgin with a kinky side" and, honestly, it is pretty well done.
My favorite parts of this story were the funny one-liners. I swear, I laughed out loud at times. I think Kresley Cole can be incredibly witty if she wants to be. I wish there was a bit more of that, a bit more of the funny banter. Instead, it grew a little too "I take myself seriously" for my tastes.
My feelings on the sexy-times were a little mixed. I, for one, don't really like masturbation scenes, so I could have bypassed those. Also, I hate when girls breasts "swell" when they are aroused (am I the only one not blessed with magical boobs that change size when I'm turned on??). Even with my few issues, the intimate moments in this book were, in general, really hot, and left me wanting more.
I will certainly continue with this series because I think it has tons of potential. I'm excited to see how it all plays out.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Want to read
December 25, 2013According to author:
My publisher and I are releasing an erotic e-serial this winter called The Professional—1st in the Game Maker Series—about a former prize-fighter turned mafia enforcer whose obsession for the boss’s long-lost daughter will take them to the darkest limits of their desires
Umm YES PLEASE! Sign me up for that!
And it's set to be released on my birthday! YEY! Happy friggin birthday to me!
**ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
My publisher and I are releasing an erotic e-serial this winter called The Professional—1st in the Game Maker Series—about a former prize-fighter turned mafia enforcer whose obsession for the boss’s long-lost daughter will take them to the darkest limits of their desires
Umm YES PLEASE! Sign me up for that!
And it's set to be released on my birthday! YEY! Happy friggin birthday to me!
**ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
August 12, 2016
OMG!! ♡♥♡♥♡♥ I loooveee this boook sooo much!
Sevastyan
As I noted additional details-scarred knuckles, tattoos on his fingers,he had a roman nose that had likely been broken and a razor-thin scar that sliced down across both lips.A fighter?
He is officially one of my favorite heroes, there was just something very raw and grabbing about him.
He rested his hand on the wall above my head, surrounding me with his heat. “When a woman singles me out”—he leaned down to murmur at my ear—“it’s because she wants to get fucked. She looks at the scars and tattoos and knows she’ll get fucked hard.
Natalie is a beautiful likeable heroine.
I\m just kidding(can you blame me,jealousy is a bitch)!
uhmmm...okey, so this is Natalie
This is me at the end of part one...
I realized then i have to wait for a part two...thanx very much Kresley Cole
again - just kidding, but i hate waiting for good stuff....
Sevastyan
As I noted additional details-scarred knuckles, tattoos on his fingers,he had a roman nose that had likely been broken and a razor-thin scar that sliced down across both lips.A fighter?
He is officially one of my favorite heroes, there was just something very raw and grabbing about him.
He rested his hand on the wall above my head, surrounding me with his heat. “When a woman singles me out”—he leaned down to murmur at my ear—“it’s because she wants to get fucked. She looks at the scars and tattoos and knows she’ll get fucked hard.
Natalie is a beautiful likeable heroine.
I\m just kidding(can you blame me,jealousy is a bitch)!
uhmmm...okey, so this is Natalie
This is me at the end of part one...
I realized then i have to wait for a part two...thanx very much Kresley Cole
again - just kidding, but i hate waiting for good stuff....
January 19, 2014
Start with a Russian mafia enforcer, throw in a needy virgin, add some insta-lust and a touch of BDSM and there ya go.
Likes:
• I do like the story line and I'm intrigued to see where it goes.
• The sex scenes are pretty hot especially with I want you but I shouldn't but I can't stay away.
• I liked the Russian language and how it added to the story.
• For the most part - Natalie's Dad, Pavel, even though I think there's something more going on.
Dislikes:
• The CHEESE factor - there's some really bad lines but I think my favorite is the "heavy ropes"! (gag!)
• Natalie started off okay but then she turned into this horn dog around Sevastyan.
• Sevastyan - geez, make up your mind man!
• Filip - gave me major creep factor vibes right from the start.
• Installment books...this is my first one and I wouldn't have read it except it is Kresley Cole. I'm not sure I would read another unless they came out as quickly as these did.
Overall:
I had heard there was a huge cheese factor with these books (and there was) but since it was Kresley Cole, and one of my favorite authors, I wanted to give it a try. One good thing was that I couldn't stop thinking about the story while I was reading something else. Off to read Part 2!
Favorite quotes:
♥ “I can't help it that this is the Bermuda Triangle-she pointed at her crotch-when guys venture there, they tend to stay."
I tapped my chin. "Oh, I thought you called it that because it's sucked in lots of seamen.”
♥ "Insight: if a guy I had sex with ever carved a notch into his bedpost, I’d tell him to carve one into mine too—and then to go make me a fucking sammich.”
Likes:
• I do like the story line and I'm intrigued to see where it goes.
• The sex scenes are pretty hot especially with I want you but I shouldn't but I can't stay away.
• I liked the Russian language and how it added to the story.
• For the most part - Natalie's Dad, Pavel, even though I think there's something more going on.
Dislikes:
• The CHEESE factor - there's some really bad lines but I think my favorite is the "heavy ropes"! (gag!)
• Natalie started off okay but then she turned into this horn dog around Sevastyan.
• Sevastyan - geez, make up your mind man!
• Filip - gave me major creep factor vibes right from the start.
• Installment books...this is my first one and I wouldn't have read it except it is Kresley Cole. I'm not sure I would read another unless they came out as quickly as these did.
Overall:
I had heard there was a huge cheese factor with these books (and there was) but since it was Kresley Cole, and one of my favorite authors, I wanted to give it a try. One good thing was that I couldn't stop thinking about the story while I was reading something else. Off to read Part 2!
Favorite quotes:
♥ “I can't help it that this is the Bermuda Triangle-she pointed at her crotch-when guys venture there, they tend to stay."
I tapped my chin. "Oh, I thought you called it that because it's sucked in lots of seamen.”
♥ "Insight: if a guy I had sex with ever carved a notch into his bedpost, I’d tell him to carve one into mine too—and then to go make me a fucking sammich.”
October 14, 2014
4 stars
Natalya has been looking for her birth parents for quite some time now; little does she know that she put herself in danger just by searching. Sent to protect and watch over her Sevastyan is left wanting, what he found is more than what he expected and his reaction to her is unacceptable. Forced to flee her home she is taken for safety to her father a very powerful influential man who has a lot of enemies that wish to bring him down. Natalya doesn’t go without a fight, but in the end is left with no choice but to trust the man she just met and
Each time Sevastyan attempts to scare her away, he ends up bringing them closer to the forbidden. He isn’t supposed to want her, she deserves so much better than a ”bruiser boxer, the feared enforcer, the professional hit man”. Natalya is adapting to her new life in Russia, a life she never dreamed she would have, with a father eager for his daughter to get to know him while making sure she has everything at her disposal. Sevastyan and Natalya try to keep their distance from each other, questioning this power that is between them. You can only deny yourself so much before you have no other choice but to give in.
The Professional is the first in a three part series, a quick satisfying read that leaves you wanting more. Do I regret reading it now and not waiting? No, but am I jonesing for more, Hell Yes! Sevastyan was a tortured hero, wanting to do the right thing, but scarred by his past. Natalya went for what she wanted, she was strong and funny tempting the Siberian like no other. I can’t wait for more!
“Understand me, girl, I will eliminate any threat to you, pitilessly.”
Natalya has been looking for her birth parents for quite some time now; little does she know that she put herself in danger just by searching. Sent to protect and watch over her Sevastyan is left wanting, what he found is more than what he expected and his reaction to her is unacceptable. Forced to flee her home she is taken for safety to her father a very powerful influential man who has a lot of enemies that wish to bring him down. Natalya doesn’t go without a fight, but in the end is left with no choice but to trust the man she just met and
“If you run from me again, I will catch you. It’s what I do.” He locked his gaze on mine. “And then I’ll spread you facedown over my knees and whip your plump ass until you know better.”
Each time Sevastyan attempts to scare her away, he ends up bringing them closer to the forbidden. He isn’t supposed to want her, she deserves so much better than a ”bruiser boxer, the feared enforcer, the professional hit man”. Natalya is adapting to her new life in Russia, a life she never dreamed she would have, with a father eager for his daughter to get to know him while making sure she has everything at her disposal. Sevastyan and Natalya try to keep their distance from each other, questioning this power that is between them. You can only deny yourself so much before you have no other choice but to give in.
“It made you happy, to be used by me?”
Perhaps not so promising. I raised my brows with amusement. “I orgasmed three times; you did once. Who’s using whom, Siberian?”
The Professional is the first in a three part series, a quick satisfying read that leaves you wanting more. Do I regret reading it now and not waiting? No, but am I jonesing for more, Hell Yes! Sevastyan was a tortured hero, wanting to do the right thing, but scarred by his past. Natalya went for what she wanted, she was strong and funny tempting the Siberian like no other. I can’t wait for more!
January 11, 2014
Well damn. I did not expect to like that as much as I did. That was such a good read that I actually forgot it was three part series. I mean talk about a rude awakening when the book ended! I'll give a legitimate review later. All I have to say currently, Is I'm loving this novel and quite annoyed ( in a good way) that I can't devour it all tonight!
KRESLEY IS DOING AN EROTICAAAAAAAA! you all know my life is reallllllly reallllly complete right now!
like this is literally me at my screen
KRESLEY IS DOING AN EROTICAAAAAAAA! you all know my life is reallllllly reallllly complete right now!
like this is literally me at my screen
March 30, 2018
Um...very steamy. I must check out more of Kresley Cole’s books her writing very entertaining. I read The Master a while back and remember liking it a lot. Surely, her fantasy books are worth checking out.
May 7, 2025
This is STEAAAAAMY
So, this is only the first part of the book (up to 38% of the actual book, or chapters 1-17).
I’ll write a more thorough review on the entire book when I’m done.
So, this is only the first part of the book (up to 38% of the actual book, or chapters 1-17).
I’ll write a more thorough review on the entire book when I’m done.
December 22, 2013
Noooooooooo....why did it have to end right there!!!! Thank God I only have to wait 2 weeks for the next book!!!! I've had this book on my list for a couple of weeks and after reading Duchess Nicole's review I had to read it NOW!!
I loved Savastyan and Natalie. Savastyan is not your typical Hero he's very much an Anti-Hero except where Natalie is concerned...not that he turns into a cuddly kitten, because he doesn't. He is dominating, cold, loyal, honorable, and ruthless...but in a gentle way with her...Well mostly gentle. Natalie is a powerhouse Heroine who knows what she wants and isn't afraid to go for it and she most definitely wants Savastyan and is ruthless in her pursuit of him!! But his respect for her father has him trying to do the right thing by avoiding Natalie.
Looking forward to more, I'm anxious to see how Natalie's relationship with Savastyan, and her biological father developes. I love the bond she is forming with her father after searching for him for six years, she finally has him and he is doting on her and seems to have fallen instantly in love with the daughter he never new existed.
Savastyan
Natalie
I loved Savastyan and Natalie. Savastyan is not your typical Hero he's very much an Anti-Hero except where Natalie is concerned...not that he turns into a cuddly kitten, because he doesn't. He is dominating, cold, loyal, honorable, and ruthless...but in a gentle way with her...Well mostly gentle. Natalie is a powerhouse Heroine who knows what she wants and isn't afraid to go for it and she most definitely wants Savastyan and is ruthless in her pursuit of him!! But his respect for her father has him trying to do the right thing by avoiding Natalie.
Looking forward to more, I'm anxious to see how Natalie's relationship with Savastyan, and her biological father developes. I love the bond she is forming with her father after searching for him for six years, she finally has him and he is doting on her and seems to have fallen instantly in love with the daughter he never new existed.
Savastyan
Natalie
December 22, 2013
*** 4.5 STARS! ***
I really need to read more Kresley Cole! This was fantastic! Russian mafia meets erotic hotness: Yes, please!
This, although short at about 120 pages or so, packed a punch.
I was reeled in from the first page. It was fast paced and promises to be an exceptionally addictive series. I've already pre-ordered books 2 and 3 and can't wait for their release.
I really liked Natalie. She went after what she wanted and is proving to be a fearless heroine. And Sevastyan?? I love an alpha that finally loses the control he's always held dear! He was suffering, holding himself in check and restraining against what he desires most: Natalie.
But one can only deny themselves for so long right? And right when we were getting what we wanted between Nat and Sev, the book ends! WHAT??!!!
January 6th can't come sooner! Loved it!
I really need to read more Kresley Cole! This was fantastic! Russian mafia meets erotic hotness: Yes, please!
This, although short at about 120 pages or so, packed a punch.
I was reeled in from the first page. It was fast paced and promises to be an exceptionally addictive series. I've already pre-ordered books 2 and 3 and can't wait for their release.
I really liked Natalie. She went after what she wanted and is proving to be a fearless heroine. And Sevastyan?? I love an alpha that finally loses the control he's always held dear! He was suffering, holding himself in check and restraining against what he desires most: Natalie.
But one can only deny themselves for so long right? And right when we were getting what we wanted between Nat and Sev, the book ends! WHAT??!!!
January 6th can't come sooner! Loved it!
July 3, 2017
“If you run, I will catch you. It’s what I do.”
- Aleksandr Sevastyan "The Siberian"
* * *
“Actions speak louder than words, Siberian.”
- Natalie Marie Porter
- Aleksandr Sevastyan "The Siberian"
* * *
“Actions speak louder than words, Siberian.”
- Natalie Marie Porter
November 28, 2013
**This is a review for an adult book (Fair warning YA Readers!)
I went in to The Professional with high expectations. I really enjoyed Cole’s Immortals After Dark series and love her YA Arcana Chronicles books. This was actually my first experience with a Cole story that didn’t have a supernatural element and I found the plot a little harder to believe because there wasn’t that aura of mystical surrounding it.
Natalie, the main character, has been searching for her biological parents for 6 years. She thinks she has hit another dead end and had her money stolen when Alexei Sevastyan (pronounced like Russian Sebastian) walks in to the bar she is at. After a whirlwind night Natalie is on a plane to Russia to meet her billionaire mafia father.
The romance in this book took a turn for the 50 Shades of Grey early on. Natalie is a virgin and Sevastyan warns Natalie that his passion for her is dark, deep, and his tastes aren’t something she will enjoy. The scenes between them were hot and Cole definitely added her signature steam to everything but I kind of felt like I had read this plot before.
Despite the feeling of familiarity Cole makes the story her own and I liked Natalie, she is smart and college educated. I even reluctantly liked Sevastyan despite his hot-cold-hot again feelings toward Natalie.
Overall, I enjoyed the first installment in The Professional serial. I’m interested to see what happens between Natalie and Sevastyan during the rest of the serial, and I want to know more about Natalie’s father and his business. This is definitely worth $1.99 and if you are a fan of Cole’s other works you will not be disappointed by The Professional.
Thanks Pocket Books and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advanced readers copy of this title
I went in to The Professional with high expectations. I really enjoyed Cole’s Immortals After Dark series and love her YA Arcana Chronicles books. This was actually my first experience with a Cole story that didn’t have a supernatural element and I found the plot a little harder to believe because there wasn’t that aura of mystical surrounding it.
Natalie, the main character, has been searching for her biological parents for 6 years. She thinks she has hit another dead end and had her money stolen when Alexei Sevastyan (pronounced like Russian Sebastian) walks in to the bar she is at. After a whirlwind night Natalie is on a plane to Russia to meet her billionaire mafia father.
The romance in this book took a turn for the 50 Shades of Grey early on. Natalie is a virgin and Sevastyan warns Natalie that his passion for her is dark, deep, and his tastes aren’t something she will enjoy. The scenes between them were hot and Cole definitely added her signature steam to everything but I kind of felt like I had read this plot before.
Despite the feeling of familiarity Cole makes the story her own and I liked Natalie, she is smart and college educated. I even reluctantly liked Sevastyan despite his hot-cold-hot again feelings toward Natalie.
Overall, I enjoyed the first installment in The Professional serial. I’m interested to see what happens between Natalie and Sevastyan during the rest of the serial, and I want to know more about Natalie’s father and his business. This is definitely worth $1.99 and if you are a fan of Cole’s other works you will not be disappointed by The Professional.
Thanks Pocket Books and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advanced readers copy of this title
February 26, 2014
Yay…me….beyond excited…………..Kresley Cole has a new book!!!!!!!
The characters are totally unrelatable….Natalie, works three jobs….talk about superwoman!!!!! A virgin still waiting to be deflowered by the “right” guy….who she INSTANTANIOUSLY knows is Sevastian, the bodyguard, who is totally devoted to her father!!!!!
The two “ignite” immediately….but he’s a man of honor!!!! He does not want to deflower his boss’s daughter because it just ain’t right!!!!!! He has an iron control beyond belief!!! And Natalie, for someone so virginal, sure shows some creative skills that just come “naturally” to her…forget experience….it’s been simmering in her and she’s now ready to “boil” over!!!
The characters ….not one of them….did it for me. I found nothing likeable about them…..I was laughing my head off when Natalie arrives at her father’s PALACE…yes, he has a palace and soon his long lost daughter is given all the rich life gifts……diamond-crusted Smartphone, sports car, designer clothes and Natalie is a born natural to this life…soon she’s doing vodka shots with her father and his “team” and her new found cousin..….jeez….it was like watching that reality show about the new rich in London!!!!!!!!!!!! Money and nothing else!!
Such silly dialogue…pets and nyets………..really!!!
Well, I’ll just go back to KC’s fabulous IAD series………….
And after a few pages….I’m like….
Before I continue, please let me clarify that these are my opinions – I know loads of readers have loved this book, but I guess it does it for someone and not for everyone….for me, it was
The plot is so ridiculous and silly that it’s beyond OTT. Natalie places messages on social media sites looking for her lost Russian father and voila!!! Soon she’s met up with some gorgeous Russian bodyguard, who has been sent to America to fetch her and take her to unknown father, who just happens to be one of the “good” Russian Mafiosos!!!!!!!
oh okay…there are some of those still living in Russia….after all, her father does everything criminal but not drugs and prostitutes………that makes it okay, doesn’t it??????
“Your father is part of the Bratva, the brotherhood. It’s like a criminal aristocracy. He’s vor v zakone, the head of our organization, answering to no one.”
The blatant pride in Sevastyan’s tone made my queasiness increase. “So I’m a freaking mafiya princess, then? That’s the real reason I’m in danger, isn’t it?”
The characters are totally unrelatable….Natalie, works three jobs….talk about superwoman!!!!! A virgin still waiting to be deflowered by the “right” guy….who she INSTANTANIOUSLY knows is Sevastian, the bodyguard, who is totally devoted to her father!!!!!
The two “ignite” immediately….but he’s a man of honor!!!! He does not want to deflower his boss’s daughter because it just ain’t right!!!!!! He has an iron control beyond belief!!! And Natalie, for someone so virginal, sure shows some creative skills that just come “naturally” to her…forget experience….it’s been simmering in her and she’s now ready to “boil” over!!!
I imagined him with cool, statuesque beauties from the north, felt like a runt in comparison. That feeling was short-lived—because he moved his attention to my breasts.
Cupping them from the bottom, he nearly circled them with his big hands. Avoiding my nipples, he kneaded with a practiced touch that was just this side of rough. But I loved it, arching to him.
Again and again, he palmed me, plumping the mounds until the rest of my body begged for contact—which he seemed determined to withhold.
“What are you doing to me?”
“Sexually torturing you.” He tightened his grip on my breasts.
The sex was not erotic or sensual…..
“Chut’.” Slightly. “I’ve been replaying how I saw you in the bath, stroking yourself with these fingers.” He peeled my right hand from the cover—which I’d been clutching like a roller-coaster safety bar—then pressed my fingertips against his face. “I only wish you’d finished yourself in front of me.”The writing was so silly……I mean……Natalie phones her best friend, who is just as idiotic as her,
Steam hissed, floating through the air. It surrounded us, caressing my face. “If we stay h-here, something might happen.” Something sinful.
Like the two of us stripping down to nothing, so we could lick droplets from each other’s skin.
Jess answered on the fourth ring, snapping with impatience: “Having my box eaten right now; this better be good—”from the private jet winging her and
” Sevastyan crossed to stand in front of me. The soft light caressed his hard features. They were almost too masculine. His rugged jaw was wide, the
bridge of his aquiline nose slightly askew, giving him a roguish look. But on the whole, he was devastatingly attractive, with that dangerous aura about him”. to meet her father.
The characters ….not one of them….did it for me. I found nothing likeable about them…..I was laughing my head off when Natalie arrives at her father’s PALACE…yes, he has a palace and soon his long lost daughter is given all the rich life gifts……diamond-crusted Smartphone, sports car, designer clothes and Natalie is a born natural to this life…soon she’s doing vodka shots with her father and his “team” and her new found cousin..….jeez….it was like watching that reality show about the new rich in London!!!!!!!!!!!! Money and nothing else!!
Such silly dialogue…pets and nyets………..really!!!
“You must trust me, pet,” he said as he reached forward to gently grasp my chin.
At his touch, that dizzying heat filled me once more. It was just the liquor at work, I assured myself, or exhaustion catching up with me. Or my unsuccessful bath time.
“Pet . . .” Now every time he called me that it reminded me of his words:collar and keep you. He reached for my jacket, his gaze gone molten. “There’s one thing you should know.”
I just had this image running in my head
I’m too scared to read book #2…what if I
Well, I’ll just go back to KC’s fabulous IAD series………….
January 5, 2015
Natalie has been looking for her birth parents for the last six years, juggling three jobs with her PhD classes to fund it. However, she never expected her search to have such life changing consequences and ones that involve Alexei Sevastyan “The Siberian”. Sevastyan is the first man who has ever really excited her, but completely off limits but once she gets a taste of him, all she can think of is having more.
This is an actual text I sent to the other girls at Under the Covers whilst I was reading this book: “I am DYING here, someone either get me some icy water or a vibrator”. Note to self: Never read any more of this series when at work. Other (and more important) note to self: If a hot Russian comes to kidnap you. Don’t. Resist.
From the first meeting between Natalie and Sevastyan the book crackled with sensuality, the couple had some serious sexual tension, which when it broke had me drooling and sending the above text to the girls, only for it all to build up all over again, leaving me in a slobbering mess. Kresley Cole really knows how to write her sex scenes and with the added element of control and BDSM it just made everything that much hotter.
If I hadn’t known this was written by Kresley Cole, her characters would have given her away, especially Natalie, she is reminiscent of the Valkyries in her Immortals After Dark series, clever, smart ass and teeny bit crazy. I loved her. As for Sevastyan, he was as dangerous as any of her vampires and oozed just as much dark sensuality, he has quite easily entered the ranks of my book boyfriends.
The only thing I hated? That it ended, I was desperately trying to turn the last page hoping there would be more, alas there wasn’t and I am now waiting eagerly (and impatiently) for the next installment.
*ARC provided by publisher
July 10, 2015
For the nth time after reading this I keep asking myself why am I only learning about this series now? Seriously, I don't think I've ever read a book with a Russian Mafia hero hotter than Aleksandr Sevastyan. *fans self* I need to read more Kresley Cole books. For a minute there I forgot how panty-dropping hot her books can be. I wasn't prepared for this one at all. On to the next!
February 15, 2015
4.5 Hot Russian stars!!!
I’m fairly new to Kresley Cole as an author, but I love her paranormal writing, so I was very keen to try something contemporary. Smart, feisty girl meets dark and mysterious Russian badass – I was hooked from that alone (I love anything Russian!). But the book surprised me with its depth, and the wonderful story that develops alongside the intense UST and dirty, hot-as-hell almost-romance (it’s building, but not quite there yet).
Part 1 of the story introduces us to 24 year old Natalie - a hard working girl studying for her PhD and working three jobs in order to support herself and fund the search for her birth parents. While out partying with her friends, she is drawn to a huge, rugged beast of a man who quickly shoots down her advances, only to turn up at her house claiming to work for her biological father. Introducing himself as Aleksandr ‘The Siberian’ Sevastyan, he immediately whisks Natalie away to Russia, where her father is some sort of billionaire Mafia boss and is apparently desperate to meet her.
That’s the set up to the story, but the major focus is the ‘thing’ that is developing between Natalie and Sevastyan, and oh holy God, the chemistry between them is crazy! From the first glance, Natalie wants him like she’s never wanted anybody else, and Sevastyan’s intensity is absolutely shiver-inducing! All clenching muscles and dark and broody eye fuckery, he makes it clear that he’s not the one for Natalie – he likes it rough, and he likes to be in control. Add to that, he is the head enforcer for her father, a man who he respects like no other, and he won’t disrespect the man he loves as a father by doing the things he wants to do to his daughter.
I love Natalie! She’s smart, sarcastic and sassy as hell. She’s in an extreme situation, and acts appropriately, but she eventually throws herself into the adventure, desperate to see where she came from and eager to experience as much as she can – including living in luxury in a former tsar’s palace, getting to know her adoring father, and getting his incredibly sexy enforcer into bed. I love the way she handles Sevastyan, and her inner monologue is hilarious!
Natalie’s shameless flirting is a fantastic contrast to Sevastyan’s domineering badassery. I love the banter between these two. Laden with suggestion, it builds the intensity between them brilliantly. And as much as Sevastyan may try to resist her, things do happen. No actual sex yet, but definitely enough to have my kindle steaming!
I listened to this as an audiobook, and let me tell you – NOTHING is hotter than dirty talk in a Russian accent. OMG! The things that Sevastyan says, and the explicitness of their scenes together push this book firmly into the realms of erotica, but there is depth to the story as well, and I’m looking forward to watching their relationship develop as the mafia plot unfolds over the next two instalments. I’m going straight on to part 2!
I loved it – 4.5 stars.
I’m fairly new to Kresley Cole as an author, but I love her paranormal writing, so I was very keen to try something contemporary. Smart, feisty girl meets dark and mysterious Russian badass – I was hooked from that alone (I love anything Russian!). But the book surprised me with its depth, and the wonderful story that develops alongside the intense UST and dirty, hot-as-hell almost-romance (it’s building, but not quite there yet).
Part 1 of the story introduces us to 24 year old Natalie - a hard working girl studying for her PhD and working three jobs in order to support herself and fund the search for her birth parents. While out partying with her friends, she is drawn to a huge, rugged beast of a man who quickly shoots down her advances, only to turn up at her house claiming to work for her biological father. Introducing himself as Aleksandr ‘The Siberian’ Sevastyan, he immediately whisks Natalie away to Russia, where her father is some sort of billionaire Mafia boss and is apparently desperate to meet her.
That’s the set up to the story, but the major focus is the ‘thing’ that is developing between Natalie and Sevastyan, and oh holy God, the chemistry between them is crazy! From the first glance, Natalie wants him like she’s never wanted anybody else, and Sevastyan’s intensity is absolutely shiver-inducing! All clenching muscles and dark and broody eye fuckery, he makes it clear that he’s not the one for Natalie – he likes it rough, and he likes to be in control. Add to that, he is the head enforcer for her father, a man who he respects like no other, and he won’t disrespect the man he loves as a father by doing the things he wants to do to his daughter.
“You think I'd stop with a kiss?”
“You assume I'd want you to?”
I love Natalie! She’s smart, sarcastic and sassy as hell. She’s in an extreme situation, and acts appropriately, but she eventually throws herself into the adventure, desperate to see where she came from and eager to experience as much as she can – including living in luxury in a former tsar’s palace, getting to know her adoring father, and getting his incredibly sexy enforcer into bed. I love the way she handles Sevastyan, and her inner monologue is hilarious!
Was it too much to ask for an attractive, dominant guy with sexual skill, one who wasn’t a minute-to-win-it two-pump chump?
Natalie’s shameless flirting is a fantastic contrast to Sevastyan’s domineering badassery. I love the banter between these two. Laden with suggestion, it builds the intensity between them brilliantly. And as much as Sevastyan may try to resist her, things do happen. No actual sex yet, but definitely enough to have my kindle steaming!
“When a woman singles me out”— he leaned down to murmur at my ear—“it’s because she wants to get fucked. She looks at the scars and tattoos and knows she’ll get fucked hard.”
I gasped, melting for him.
“Is that what you wanted of me, Natalya?”
I listened to this as an audiobook, and let me tell you – NOTHING is hotter than dirty talk in a Russian accent. OMG! The things that Sevastyan says, and the explicitness of their scenes together push this book firmly into the realms of erotica, but there is depth to the story as well, and I’m looking forward to watching their relationship develop as the mafia plot unfolds over the next two instalments. I’m going straight on to part 2!
I loved it – 4.5 stars.
February 5, 2014
This is part one of a three part series from Kresley Cole, that is about a woman who sets out to find her biological parents and ends up finding out that she is the daughter of a Russian Mafiya Lord. Aleksandr Sevastyan is a Mafiya enforcer who works for Natalie's father, and is extremely loyal to him as well. He comes to collect Natalie and bring her back to Russia to meet her father for the first time. She becomes thrown into a world that seems almost like a fairytale. Her father lives in a mansion, and showers Natalie with a ton of gifts; from clothes to jewelry. As Natalie gets to know her father; she becomes more and more attracted to Sevastyn. He is extremely hot and cold with her though. They had an intimate encounter on the plane ride over to Russia; but Sevastyn feels guilty for laying his hands on his boss's daughter and insists that he will not do it again. Unfortunately, it isn't as easy as it seems though, and living inside of Sevastyn is a darkness that makes him want to possess Natalie and never let her go.
I enjoyed this one for the most part. I did find that at times it was a bit boring; but it had Kresley Cole's trademark sense of humor thrown into the story that is made it hard not to enjoy. Whether it was Natalie having what was called an "internal manalyzer", or her friends stating that Sevastyan "Probably gets more ass than a toilet seat;" I was laughing out loud more than once! In a round about way the story reminded me a bit of a Cinderella type scenario. Mainly because it seems that Natalie goes from living a penny pinching kind of life to being pampered in Russia.
This first installment seems like more of an introduction of the characters and their situations. Of course it ends on a cliffie, and it makes me glad I waited to read the series until the other two books were out. I am not quite sure why authors feel they have to write these "serial" stories all of the time now. I would have preferred to read this one in all of the same book. I will continue to the next one; especially with how the first book ended...or I should say...cut off! I am left with a few questions about Sevastyan, as well as I can't wait until this couple gives in to their explosive attraction. The few scenes where they were somewhat intimate, were sizzling; so I am anxious for them to "do the deed!!!" Natatlie is a virgin, and Sevastyan has a major dark side; so needless to say it should prove interesting! All in all, not Ms Cole's best; but I think she is a brilliant writer with an awesome sense of humor so I enjoyed it anyway!
I enjoyed this one for the most part. I did find that at times it was a bit boring; but it had Kresley Cole's trademark sense of humor thrown into the story that is made it hard not to enjoy. Whether it was Natalie having what was called an "internal manalyzer", or her friends stating that Sevastyan "Probably gets more ass than a toilet seat;" I was laughing out loud more than once! In a round about way the story reminded me a bit of a Cinderella type scenario. Mainly because it seems that Natalie goes from living a penny pinching kind of life to being pampered in Russia.
This first installment seems like more of an introduction of the characters and their situations. Of course it ends on a cliffie, and it makes me glad I waited to read the series until the other two books were out. I am not quite sure why authors feel they have to write these "serial" stories all of the time now. I would have preferred to read this one in all of the same book. I will continue to the next one; especially with how the first book ended...or I should say...cut off! I am left with a few questions about Sevastyan, as well as I can't wait until this couple gives in to their explosive attraction. The few scenes where they were somewhat intimate, were sizzling; so I am anxious for them to "do the deed!!!" Natatlie is a virgin, and Sevastyan has a major dark side; so needless to say it should prove interesting! All in all, not Ms Cole's best; but I think she is a brilliant writer with an awesome sense of humor so I enjoyed it anyway!
June 29, 2016
4 Diddling the da stars
Natalie Porter has been studying and working hard, especially since the loss of her adoptive father. She’s done quite a lot of investigating into who her real parents could be, and found her investigations taking her to Russia.
What she didn’t expect was to be whisked away by a Russian Mafiya’s right hand man, adoringly known as The Siberian.
Aleksandr Sevastyan is indebted to his boss, Pavel Kovalev, and on hearing he has a daughter, he entrusts the job of returning her to him to his adopted “son”. Having invaded her privacy, Sevastyan finds himself dark and deeply attracted to the feisty redhead, but tries his utmost to distance himself from the unknown feelings he has.
As Natalie understands the rules surrounding her Father’s world, she struggles to tamper down her lust for this enigmatic, broody, alluring enforcer. Unravelling his life experience only fuels her desire, but there will be consequences for this stainless temptress.
I'm liking this authors voice, so I'm going to dive into part 2, given the cliffy.
Natalie Porter has been studying and working hard, especially since the loss of her adoptive father. She’s done quite a lot of investigating into who her real parents could be, and found her investigations taking her to Russia.
What she didn’t expect was to be whisked away by a Russian Mafiya’s right hand man, adoringly known as The Siberian.
Aleksandr Sevastyan is indebted to his boss, Pavel Kovalev, and on hearing he has a daughter, he entrusts the job of returning her to him to his adopted “son”. Having invaded her privacy, Sevastyan finds himself dark and deeply attracted to the feisty redhead, but tries his utmost to distance himself from the unknown feelings he has.
As Natalie understands the rules surrounding her Father’s world, she struggles to tamper down her lust for this enigmatic, broody, alluring enforcer. Unravelling his life experience only fuels her desire, but there will be consequences for this stainless temptress.
I'm liking this authors voice, so I'm going to dive into part 2, given the cliffy.
”Understand me, girl, I will eliminate any threat to you, pitilessly.”
March 3, 2015
I read this as a serial story- chopped up and divvied out like misers with gold? Because that's what you are you wretched publishers/marketers. (I'm blaming them because I refuse to believe KC could be so cruel. I mean really, to borrow a phrase- Whiskey. Tango. Foxtrot.)
It's hard enough waiting for stories that are good from authors you love, you do this to us? You've made yourselves to be bigger cock-teases than the writers of "How I met your mother" and it's just wrong to play with fangirl hearts-and wallets- like this. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong.
As you can see, I do not approve.
That said- the first part? This is good. Seriously hot. Natalie is a heroine I can get on board with, despite her virgin status. (not that there's anything wrong with that. Of course not.) But Sevastyan? Yes, please.
The last two parts? Def did not deliver. Which was a disappointment. Im so glad to see the next installment in the series is out in its entirety. Because this serialization junk? Does not work for this author.
It's hard enough waiting for stories that are good from authors you love, you do this to us? You've made yourselves to be bigger cock-teases than the writers of "How I met your mother" and it's just wrong to play with fangirl hearts-and wallets- like this. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong.
As you can see, I do not approve.
That said- the first part? This is good. Seriously hot. Natalie is a heroine I can get on board with, despite her virgin status. (not that there's anything wrong with that. Of course not.) But Sevastyan? Yes, please.
The last two parts? Def did not deliver. Which was a disappointment. Im so glad to see the next installment in the series is out in its entirety. Because this serialization junk? Does not work for this author.
July 14, 2022
Ooh !! It’s gonna end like that ??! Okay I’m downloading part two because I gots to know if he gonna put that thang thang down !?!
Happy reading everyone!!
Happy reading everyone!!
December 6, 2013
Well, scorch my Kindle! The Professional: Part 1 by Kesley Cole has it all, and I mean ALL! There is the teasing, the humor, the darkness, the brooding, the hot, HOT, HOT erotic moments and two amazing characters, his darkness to her lightness! Grab a fan, the smelling salts, and keep the BP cuff on hand, this is going to have you panting for more! BEST CARDIO EVER!
Without a paranormal in sight, Kresley Cole has done it again, created heat, chemistry and an intriguing plot that has me begging for more or at least a trip to Russia!
I received an ARC edition in exchange for my honest review from Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books - Pocket Star.
Series: The Game Maker, Book 1
Publisher: Pocket Star
Publication Date: December 16, 2013
Genre: Erotica
Number of Pages: 120
Learn More at: Kresley Cole's Website
Find this book on: Barnes & Noble | Amazon
Without a paranormal in sight, Kresley Cole has done it again, created heat, chemistry and an intriguing plot that has me begging for more or at least a trip to Russia!
I received an ARC edition in exchange for my honest review from Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books - Pocket Star.
Series: The Game Maker, Book 1
Publisher: Pocket Star
Publication Date: December 16, 2013
Genre: Erotica
Number of Pages: 120
Learn More at: Kresley Cole's Website
Find this book on: Barnes & Noble | Amazon
September 6, 2016
I will say right away that I hate the serial form. I think it is a a way to eek out more profit and I don't enjoy the wait. Even with writing as good as this is, I remain not a fan. When all the parts have been published, I will want to read them all together and this means I will have to open one part after another to do that. It is easier for me just to wait until the whole book is out and buy the united copy.
This said--I am excited about Cole's venture into Erotic Contemporary Romance and her ability to make tired tropes (Russian mobster and Dom) sing. There isn't a cheesy cliffhanger here (just a nice resting place with anticipation) and that makes the form more tolerable.
Cole's writing is scorching hot and the two leads are wonderful. In the hero, Cole gives me the uber hot Russian tattooed Mafia Dom I never knew I needed so bad. The heroine is smart and snarky per usual for Cole and I adore her. The found father is great as is the real dilemma that the characters face.
The secondary characters aren't as well done--her bff is well frat house and not really endearing so far and the romantic rival/possible villian is a little flat.
However, the story so far is very good and if you are reading this for the erotica...well damn. The sexy times burn down the house and best yet they are character driven so they feel right too.
I hope Cole makes a series of this featuring the other gentlemen around the table.
So, yeah. I recommend this one despite my hate and disdain of the serial.
I was given this book for my honest review. So, there you have it.
This said--I am excited about Cole's venture into Erotic Contemporary Romance and her ability to make tired tropes (Russian mobster and Dom) sing. There isn't a cheesy cliffhanger here (just a nice resting place with anticipation) and that makes the form more tolerable.
Cole's writing is scorching hot and the two leads are wonderful. In the hero, Cole gives me the uber hot Russian tattooed Mafia Dom I never knew I needed so bad. The heroine is smart and snarky per usual for Cole and I adore her. The found father is great as is the real dilemma that the characters face.
The secondary characters aren't as well done--her bff is well frat house and not really endearing so far and the romantic rival/possible villian is a little flat.
However, the story so far is very good and if you are reading this for the erotica...well damn. The sexy times burn down the house and best yet they are character driven so they feel right too.
I hope Cole makes a series of this featuring the other gentlemen around the table.
So, yeah. I recommend this one despite my hate and disdain of the serial.
I was given this book for my honest review. So, there you have it.
June 14, 2020
Non quello che mi aspettavo dalla trama.
Questo genere di libri dovrebbe creare una certa tensione che è mancata totalmente.
Questo genere di libri dovrebbe creare una certa tensione che è mancata totalmente.
December 21, 2013
Update!
5+ Hot Hot Hot Stars!
Part 2 6th of January,part 3 20th of January. That is called torture Mrs Cole!!
This was a great read but short. Want more,waaaaaay more. An American girl searches for her birth parents and gets more than she bargained for. It's very much insta-lust, which oddly enough I didn't mind one bit in this book. Chemistry off the charts and one seriously dominant alpha male. This book will knock your socks off. Cannot wait for the rest. The ending isn't like an ending of a book, feels more like the end of a chapter and I can't say it's cliffhanger because you know more or less where it's heading between them but you can't read the details yet(for the specific end chapter of Part 1 that is, not the overall plot).
A must-read! Would prefer to wait until I have all Parts but I can't!
-----------------------------
Oh my God! Cannot wait!!!!!
Update!
Excerpt for The Professional!!!!!!!!!!!
http://kresleycole.com/gamemakerprivate/
Share with a friend to unlock it! Already read it and all I can say is:
and
5+ Hot Hot Hot Stars!
Part 2 6th of January,part 3 20th of January. That is called torture Mrs Cole!!
This was a great read but short. Want more,waaaaaay more. An American girl searches for her birth parents and gets more than she bargained for. It's very much insta-lust, which oddly enough I didn't mind one bit in this book. Chemistry off the charts and one seriously dominant alpha male. This book will knock your socks off. Cannot wait for the rest. The ending isn't like an ending of a book, feels more like the end of a chapter and I can't say it's cliffhanger because you know more or less where it's heading between them but you can't read the details yet(for the specific end chapter of Part 1 that is, not the overall plot).
A must-read! Would prefer to wait until I have all Parts but I can't!
-----------------------------
Oh my God! Cannot wait!!!!!
Update!
Excerpt for The Professional!!!!!!!!!!!
http://kresleycole.com/gamemakerprivate/
Share with a friend to unlock it! Already read it and all I can say is:
and
December 18, 2013
So, it looks like the general consensus on this book is sort of “meh”, but I really quite enjoyed it. It probably has something to do with my obsession for all things Russian. There’s just something somewhat mysterious, dark, cold and hard about Russia. Random Note: I visited back in 1989 when it was still the USSR and can also attest to the fact that there’s some good eye candy there…mainly the soldiers with those trench coats and tall black leather boots….but I digress into fantasy land. Back to the review. I actually really liked the heroine in this one-strange, I know. Where she could have come off a bumbling idiot, I found her amusing as hell. Her inner monologue had me laughing quite a bit and she just seemed like a fun gal I wouldn’t mind hanging out with…oh, and getting drunk with Our hero, Sevastyan, was hot and pretty damn sexy with those little glimpses at a softer side. The sexy was good but I wouldn’t mind a little more in the next one. I am sort of wondering, though, if the hinted at dom/sub thing is going to develop more in the next two books? I’m not a huge fan of the whole “obedience” thing, so if it goes there in a hardcore way, I may end up turned off. Guess I’ll have to wait and see…. I was originally very happy to see that the next two books are due out as soon as January, but now that I’m done even January seems like a long wait. With that cliffhanger, I want to see what happens next right NOW!
August 2, 2015
I listened to the Audible version of this story and the narration was good. For whatever reason, the first book in this series was broken into 3 parts, with this being the first of those. So, as you'd expect, this partial book left me hungry for more and with a lot of unanswered questions.
This book begins with Natalie, a college student working her booty off to finance a private investigator to track down her birth parents. Low and behold, an enigmatic and dangerously sexy Russian shows up and claims to be working for her father. Natalie is immediately drawn to him. Sparks fly and a whole lot of sexual tension results.
According to Sebastian, Natalie's father is a billionaire and a mob boss. Fiercely loyal to her father, Sebastian fights his attraction to Natalie. Of course, it wouldn't be much of a story if he didn't slip-up a few times. ;)
Being the over-bearing Alpha that he is, he strong-arms Natalie into leaving her home in U.S. and heading to Russia. Natalie settles in with surprising ease, but the sexual tension between her and Sebastian carries on. Of course, this is ongoing, as this completes only 1/3 of book 1 in the series.
Overall, I'm enjoying this series. The dialogue is witty and entertaining. I like the characters and am curious to learn more about them. I'll be starting the second part of book one right away.
This book begins with Natalie, a college student working her booty off to finance a private investigator to track down her birth parents. Low and behold, an enigmatic and dangerously sexy Russian shows up and claims to be working for her father. Natalie is immediately drawn to him. Sparks fly and a whole lot of sexual tension results.
According to Sebastian, Natalie's father is a billionaire and a mob boss. Fiercely loyal to her father, Sebastian fights his attraction to Natalie. Of course, it wouldn't be much of a story if he didn't slip-up a few times. ;)
Being the over-bearing Alpha that he is, he strong-arms Natalie into leaving her home in U.S. and heading to Russia. Natalie settles in with surprising ease, but the sexual tension between her and Sebastian carries on. Of course, this is ongoing, as this completes only 1/3 of book 1 in the series.
Overall, I'm enjoying this series. The dialogue is witty and entertaining. I like the characters and am curious to learn more about them. I'll be starting the second part of book one right away.
November 26, 2025
The Professional: Part 1 is pure erotic brilliance. Cole will blow your socks off with this high-stakes, Russian Mafia meets US-raised farm girl erotic novella. Cole catapults sexual chemistry to an entirely new level, Sevastyan and Natalie beat Grey any day. The Professional is a stunningly vivid, fast-paced, panty-melting must-read.
I received this ARC copy of The Professional: Part 1 from Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books - Pocket Star in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication on December 16, 2013.
I received this ARC copy of The Professional: Part 1 from Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books - Pocket Star in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication on December 16, 2013.
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