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The Serafina: Sin City #1
First Surrender
A new edition of ISBN 9780989776608 can be found here
He’s dangerous, sexy, and everything she wants…
Sierra hit it off with Hayden from the moment they met. The dangerously sexy, tattooed ex-SEAL is one of the best friends she’s ever had—and the main star in her wildest fantasies. But he doesn’t see her that way. And she’d die of embarrassment if he found out she was still a virgin.
And he’s about to make his claim…
Hayden’s struggled to keep his attraction to the beautiful, dark haired casino chef a secret. He’s not good enough for her. But when an attacker targets Sierra, Hayden’s protective instincts go into overdrive. With the attraction between them burning out of control, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her and convince her they’re meant to be together.
He’s dangerous, sexy, and everything she wants…
Sierra hit it off with Hayden from the moment they met. The dangerously sexy, tattooed ex-SEAL is one of the best friends she’s ever had—and the main star in her wildest fantasies. But he doesn’t see her that way. And she’d die of embarrassment if he found out she was still a virgin.
And he’s about to make his claim…
Hayden’s struggled to keep his attraction to the beautiful, dark haired casino chef a secret. He’s not good enough for her. But when an attacker targets Sierra, Hayden’s protective instincts go into overdrive. With the attraction between them burning out of control, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her and convince her they’re meant to be together.
70 pages, ebook
First published September 16, 2013
164 people are currently reading
2714 people want to read
About the author
Katie Reus
164 books3,243 followersKatie Reus® is the USA Today bestselling author of the Endgame trilogy, the MacArthur Family series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom's stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it. However, she didn't always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews
April 1, 2019
I don't want to offend anyone, but it was a long time I genuinely laughed while reading a book. So good! 👍
Was he a SEAL, a security chef or a OB-GYN?
Coz the man was so skilled! After he fingered her for a 1st time, he came to the conclusion, that she was a virgin, coz she was very tight. Bravo!
It's a common knowledge non-virgins (even worse the moms) are not tight anymore. Booh!
I even won't bother to discuss the fact, that our 22 yo inexperienced virgin had an orgasm while losing her tightness! Cool!
What is the 1st thing a woman does after her 1st time?.. She calls her gynecologist to make an appointment for a birth control prescription. Okay...
Why didn't she ask the hero?! I thought it was his speciality too.
He went commando, coz he knew he would come home to her... Hmm, the whole day at work commando in order to come *pun intended* homein to her?!
Or did he loose his undies before heading home (shy and inconspicuous under the table)?
Suspense? There was a suspense? Yada yada and she didn't even need to testify 😏
Up to the 2nd book! Soooo glad I bought the whole series! 🙄
Was he a SEAL, a security chef or a OB-GYN?
Coz the man was so skilled! After he fingered her for a 1st time, he came to the conclusion, that she was a virgin, coz she was very tight. Bravo!
It's a common knowledge non-virgins (even worse the moms) are not tight anymore. Booh!
I even won't bother to discuss the fact, that our 22 yo inexperienced virgin had an orgasm while losing her tightness! Cool!
What is the 1st thing a woman does after her 1st time?.. She calls her gynecologist to make an appointment for a birth control prescription. Okay...
Why didn't she ask the hero?! I thought it was his speciality too.
He went commando, coz he knew he would come home to her... Hmm, the whole day at work commando in order to come *pun intended* home
Or did he loose his undies before heading home (shy and inconspicuous under the table)?
Suspense? There was a suspense? Yada yada and she didn't even need to testify 😏
Up to the 2nd book! Soooo glad I bought the whole series! 🙄
December 19, 2019
First Surrender by Katie Reus
The 1st in the Serafina Sin City series.
Hot and steamy romance. Short and thrilling and spicy.
Hayden has been in love with Sienna since she started at the casino as Chef. He hasn’t gone beyond the friendships level afraid of scaring her off.
Sierra has been enamored with the ex-SEAL since she met him wishing that their friendship would evolve into some of her favorite risqué fantasies.
When Sierra is attacked, Hayden goes into protector mode and immediately lets her know she means more to him than just a friend.
I listened to the audiobook Narrated by Ryan Hudson. His tone was well modulated and easy to listen to but didn’t have much difference between the male and female point of view. Enjoyable and surprisingly not embarrassing during the explicit sex scenes.
Kudos to the author for the realism of the inactive female reaction.
The 1st in the Serafina Sin City series.
Hot and steamy romance. Short and thrilling and spicy.
Hayden has been in love with Sienna since she started at the casino as Chef. He hasn’t gone beyond the friendships level afraid of scaring her off.
Sierra has been enamored with the ex-SEAL since she met him wishing that their friendship would evolve into some of her favorite risqué fantasies.
When Sierra is attacked, Hayden goes into protector mode and immediately lets her know she means more to him than just a friend.
I listened to the audiobook Narrated by Ryan Hudson. His tone was well modulated and easy to listen to but didn’t have much difference between the male and female point of view. Enjoyable and surprisingly not embarrassing during the explicit sex scenes.
Kudos to the author for the realism of the inactive female reaction.
May 1, 2016
Sweet and hot novella. Hayden wanted Sierra the minute he saw her a year ago and Sierra felt the same way. Neither wanted to make a move, afraid they'd scare the other off and lose the friendship they developed. Circumstances force Hayden to finally make his move. This would have definitely been a 5 star read if it was longer.
Safety Gang:
Safety Gang:
March 12, 2019
Heroine was weak and a bit pathetic to be honest. But kudos for the hero who was faithful to her for a year. If only authors would write more faithful heroes now. I got the sense that he was a bit of a whore before he met the heroine. Also the heroine was a virgin. 🙄
“Because I don’t want anyone else but you. I’d rather use my own hand and imagine bending you over my desk while I masturbate than actually fuck anyone else.”
“Because I don’t want anyone else but you. I’d rather use my own hand and imagine bending you over my desk while I masturbate than actually fuck anyone else.”
May 14, 2020
I’ve never read anything by this author before and maybe because this was published back in 2013 but it seems to me as if at that time she was a new author. The writing is a bit green or amateurish not sure how to really describe it.
It is a super short read (maybe just a couple hours) with action & smut, a decent combo but it just wasn’t as good as I had hoped it would be.
It is a super short read (maybe just a couple hours) with action & smut, a decent combo but it just wasn’t as good as I had hoped it would be.
October 3, 2013
This was a quickie novella, and I mean a quickie; it took me around an hour to read it. That's not to say I didn't enjoy it.
I'm a sucker for the friends to lover romances. So when I read the blurb to this book, I knew I had to read it.
Sierra has been lusting after Hayden since the moment they met. Working together at the same hotel has allowed them to form a very close friendship. But Sierra has never been able to get rid of her attraction to the man. And really, who can blame her? He's a sexy, tattooed ex Navy SEAL.
Hayden has had feelings for Sierra for that long as well, but he's afraid to make a move because he doesn't think he's good enough for her.
So of course when a bad guy is thrown in to the mix, and Sierra gets attacked, Hayden's protective instincts kick in and he refuses to leave her side.
While somewhat predictable, the story was entertaining. The sex scenes were steamy, and the relationship that builds between them was fun to read. Even though the story was short, I was still was able to get a feel for both the characters.
The bad guy...well...that wasn't too big of a mystery. I had figured it out from pretty much the very beginning. But that didn't take away from the story for me. The primary focus was the relationship between Hayden and Sierra.
A fun and sexy novella with a hot as sin hero and an endearing heroine. This was a great start to a series that I will definitely be keeping an eye out for.
ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit: Dirty Girl Romance Book Blog
I'm a sucker for the friends to lover romances. So when I read the blurb to this book, I knew I had to read it.
Sierra has been lusting after Hayden since the moment they met. Working together at the same hotel has allowed them to form a very close friendship. But Sierra has never been able to get rid of her attraction to the man. And really, who can blame her? He's a sexy, tattooed ex Navy SEAL.
Hayden has had feelings for Sierra for that long as well, but he's afraid to make a move because he doesn't think he's good enough for her.
So of course when a bad guy is thrown in to the mix, and Sierra gets attacked, Hayden's protective instincts kick in and he refuses to leave her side.
While somewhat predictable, the story was entertaining. The sex scenes were steamy, and the relationship that builds between them was fun to read. Even though the story was short, I was still was able to get a feel for both the characters.
The bad guy...well...that wasn't too big of a mystery. I had figured it out from pretty much the very beginning. But that didn't take away from the story for me. The primary focus was the relationship between Hayden and Sierra.
A fun and sexy novella with a hot as sin hero and an endearing heroine. This was a great start to a series that I will definitely be keeping an eye out for.
ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit: Dirty Girl Romance Book Blog
October 4, 2018
4 Sexy Alpha Loving Stars!!!
This is my first Katie Reus book, and I'm looking forward to reading many more of her books!!! This was a great start to the Sin City series and now I'm anxious to read the rest of the books in series.
Hayden is a 32 yr old ex Navy Seal who is now head of security at a Las Vegas Hotel, Sierra is a 22 yr head chef at one the popular restaurants within the hotel. Hayden is also Sierra's best friend but she's in love with Hayden and longs to be more than just his friend, unbeknownst to her Hayden's feelings are mutual.
When Sierra is threatened and attacked by a stalker Hayden seizes the opportunity to stake his claim and to keep her safe at the same time.
This was a novella (only about 70 pages) so things didn't drag out and her stalker issue was dealt with swiftly, I wish the storyline would have gone on a bit longer but things between Hayden & Sierra and her stalker resolved rather quickly...the potential was there for a more in depth storyline.
Looking forward to Jay's (Hayden's brother) book Sensual Surrender next!!!
This is my first Katie Reus book, and I'm looking forward to reading many more of her books!!! This was a great start to the Sin City series and now I'm anxious to read the rest of the books in series.
Hayden is a 32 yr old ex Navy Seal who is now head of security at a Las Vegas Hotel, Sierra is a 22 yr head chef at one the popular restaurants within the hotel. Hayden is also Sierra's best friend but she's in love with Hayden and longs to be more than just his friend, unbeknownst to her Hayden's feelings are mutual.
When Sierra is threatened and attacked by a stalker Hayden seizes the opportunity to stake his claim and to keep her safe at the same time.
This was a novella (only about 70 pages) so things didn't drag out and her stalker issue was dealt with swiftly, I wish the storyline would have gone on a bit longer but things between Hayden & Sierra and her stalker resolved rather quickly...the potential was there for a more in depth storyline.
Looking forward to Jay's (Hayden's brother) book Sensual Surrender next!!!
November 20, 2022
Narrator Review: Ryan Hudson
Distinguishable between characters: 5 Stars
Impersonating opposite sex: 5 Stars
Accents: N/A
Any critiques: None
Overall enjoyment of Performance: 5 Stars
Recommend audible version: Yes
Borrowed on Audible Romance Package
Story Review: 3.5 Stars
Based at the Serafina Casino...head chef, Sierra and security and ex-seal, Hayden are best friends. Both are secretly attracted to each other. It takes an attack on Sierra for Hayden to stop being a gentlemen and claiming her.
For such a short story, a lot happens in this book. Hayden must keep Sierra safe while they hunt down who tried to attack her in the parking lot of the casino. It's another well written shorty by one of my favorite authors.
Distinguishable between characters: 5 Stars
Impersonating opposite sex: 5 Stars
Accents: N/A
Any critiques: None
Overall enjoyment of Performance: 5 Stars
Recommend audible version: Yes
Borrowed on Audible Romance Package
Story Review: 3.5 Stars
Based at the Serafina Casino...head chef, Sierra and security and ex-seal, Hayden are best friends. Both are secretly attracted to each other. It takes an attack on Sierra for Hayden to stop being a gentlemen and claiming her.
For such a short story, a lot happens in this book. Hayden must keep Sierra safe while they hunt down who tried to attack her in the parking lot of the casino. It's another well written shorty by one of my favorite authors.
July 29, 2016
2.5 fast stars
First Surrender for me was a quick predictable read. It was a fast paced book, that covered too much in such a short period of time. A friends to lovers book that I had no time to form any real opinion on the characters or the book. It wasn’t a bad book, nor was it a great book either; for me it was just okay. People wonder why I read shorties, I think you never really can judge a book by its cover, length or popularity, plus it gives me an idea for the author’s writing style. The following books in the series are said to be longer than this, with different characters, so I will be checking them out later on.
First Surrender for me was a quick predictable read. It was a fast paced book, that covered too much in such a short period of time. A friends to lovers book that I had no time to form any real opinion on the characters or the book. It wasn’t a bad book, nor was it a great book either; for me it was just okay. People wonder why I read shorties, I think you never really can judge a book by its cover, length or popularity, plus it gives me an idea for the author’s writing style. The following books in the series are said to be longer than this, with different characters, so I will be checking them out later on.
June 16, 2016
Reviewed for: Where the Night Kind Roam
First Surrender by Katie Reus is the first book I have read of hers that is a contemporary. I have read her paranormal and really enjoyed it but I wasn’t sure what to expect from her contemporary, but whatever I was expecting it was not this… What I got was hot hot hot!!! So sizzling I think my Kindle may have caught on fire! Hayden, oh my wow! Talk about sexy, and protective, and total hotness. Covered with full sleeve tattoos, ex-military, tall and gorgeous and would even kill for his woman. I thought it super cute that he had such a crush on Sierra for such a long time and even had a weekly standing “date” with her as friends just so he could be near her. You would have thought a man who oozed so much self-confidence would have made a move but he had a fear of rejection just like everyone else. Man if this dude really existed I’d be super jealous of Sierra, because I’d want him for myself!
Sierra, is a bit on the shy side, a guess a culinary genius because she’s the executive chef at a casino at the age of 22 if I remember correctly. Now this I found a bit hard to swallow, I guess knowing some chefs I know how competitive it is and being obtaining that position that young.. hmmm.. But anyway roll with it I guess. Add to that, she’s super gorgeous and still a virgin.. ehh.. again I just rolled with it. I guess the worldy guy with the young innocent virgin is still going strong. It’s not my favorite but since Hayden is Hayden, I can overlook it. Despite the young innocent virgin thing Sierra was actually pretty likeable. She’s super sweet but holds up well under pressure and violence and she can stand up to Hayden’s sheer will. That takes some kahones.
The story itself is actually pretty short. I really wish it had been a full length story because I think these two deserved a full length, but you gotta make do with what you’ve got. As previously mentioned Hayden has been hesitant to make a move on Sierra even though he’s been in love with her for close to a year. There is even a pool to see when he will finally break down and ask her out which I found pretty funny! Its not until she is threatened that he realizes nothing is going to get in the way of him and Sierra any longer and he directs all of that alphaness into protecting her. The who’s after sweetheart Sierra plotline keeps things moving along when these two aren’t scorching up the sheets of Hayden’s bed, or his floor, or the kitchen… There was a nice bit of action in the bedroom and out of it. The story flew on by and before I was ready it was over. : ( This story did make me want to go back and read the series that this book is a spinoff from as well as look forward to the future books in this series. I enjoyed it way more then I was expecting too! So go forth and read it!
First Surrender by Katie Reus is the first book I have read of hers that is a contemporary. I have read her paranormal and really enjoyed it but I wasn’t sure what to expect from her contemporary, but whatever I was expecting it was not this… What I got was hot hot hot!!! So sizzling I think my Kindle may have caught on fire! Hayden, oh my wow! Talk about sexy, and protective, and total hotness. Covered with full sleeve tattoos, ex-military, tall and gorgeous and would even kill for his woman. I thought it super cute that he had such a crush on Sierra for such a long time and even had a weekly standing “date” with her as friends just so he could be near her. You would have thought a man who oozed so much self-confidence would have made a move but he had a fear of rejection just like everyone else. Man if this dude really existed I’d be super jealous of Sierra, because I’d want him for myself!
Sierra, is a bit on the shy side, a guess a culinary genius because she’s the executive chef at a casino at the age of 22 if I remember correctly. Now this I found a bit hard to swallow, I guess knowing some chefs I know how competitive it is and being obtaining that position that young.. hmmm.. But anyway roll with it I guess. Add to that, she’s super gorgeous and still a virgin.. ehh.. again I just rolled with it. I guess the worldy guy with the young innocent virgin is still going strong. It’s not my favorite but since Hayden is Hayden, I can overlook it. Despite the young innocent virgin thing Sierra was actually pretty likeable. She’s super sweet but holds up well under pressure and violence and she can stand up to Hayden’s sheer will. That takes some kahones.
The story itself is actually pretty short. I really wish it had been a full length story because I think these two deserved a full length, but you gotta make do with what you’ve got. As previously mentioned Hayden has been hesitant to make a move on Sierra even though he’s been in love with her for close to a year. There is even a pool to see when he will finally break down and ask her out which I found pretty funny! Its not until she is threatened that he realizes nothing is going to get in the way of him and Sierra any longer and he directs all of that alphaness into protecting her. The who’s after sweetheart Sierra plotline keeps things moving along when these two aren’t scorching up the sheets of Hayden’s bed, or his floor, or the kitchen… There was a nice bit of action in the bedroom and out of it. The story flew on by and before I was ready it was over. : ( This story did make me want to go back and read the series that this book is a spinoff from as well as look forward to the future books in this series. I enjoyed it way more then I was expecting too! So go forth and read it!
October 23, 2014
Nice intro to this series.
This is my virgin read of this author, and I was quite impressed with her writing.
For a novella, the characters were well developed, and the story was good.
I finished the story feeling satisfied that I read a 'complete' story.
I will definitely continue with this series.
Want to read
March 7, 2014FREE today on Amazon US (3/7/2014).
http://www.amazon.com/First-Surrender...
http://www.amazon.com/First-Surrender...
March 30, 2014
...A short but very hot, friends to lovers story, especially loved alpha-Hayden. Rawr!
August 11, 2013
I’ve gotten used to the Katie Reus books having a little less spice to them compared to her Savannah Stuart books. First Surrender is HOT! Hayden is absurdly HOT. I must say I was just a bit jealous of Sierra getting all of that man's attention. Let me assure you he was very attentive.
Sierra and Hayden have been hanging out as friends for what Hayden sees as far too long. He wants more from Sierra than just her friendship. Sierra has the same thoughts, but due to some minor insecurities she believes that Hayden would never want more from her than the platonic relationship they currently have. She’s a smart gal and is willing to take what she can get from him. When Sierra is attacked everything that is alpha and possessive about Hayden kicks in and he steps up to protect what is his.
By the time it is all said and done Sierra will have no doubts about how he feels about her.
Fans of Katie’s Red Stone Security series will be immedaitely notice the setting and a past couple. The Serafina: Sin City series takes place in Vegas at Wyatt Christiansen’s casino. Readers will remember him and Iris from their book Breaking Her Rules.
Sierra and Hayden have been hanging out as friends for what Hayden sees as far too long. He wants more from Sierra than just her friendship. Sierra has the same thoughts, but due to some minor insecurities she believes that Hayden would never want more from her than the platonic relationship they currently have. She’s a smart gal and is willing to take what she can get from him. When Sierra is attacked everything that is alpha and possessive about Hayden kicks in and he steps up to protect what is his.
By the time it is all said and done Sierra will have no doubts about how he feels about her.
Fans of Katie’s Red Stone Security series will be immedaitely notice the setting and a past couple. The Serafina: Sin City series takes place in Vegas at Wyatt Christiansen’s casino. Readers will remember him and Iris from their book Breaking Her Rules.
November 7, 2014
First Surrender is a 70 page romantic suspense novella that kicks off the Serafina Series by author Katie Reus. The Serafina series is a spin-off series of the Red Stone books and I'm guessing will follow a similiar formula as that series. I was happy to pick this one up for free today since I had it listed on my TBR list but then realized First Surrender is also included in an anthology I already owned, Wicked Firsts. Definitely a case of too many books, not enough time.
Sierra and Hayden have been good friends for over a year but finally admit their feelings for each other after Sierra is attacked. The romance was short, sweet, and had a couple shots of sexy. Even though there wasn't alot to work due to the shorter size of the novella, it was an enjoyable quick read. I wish I could have gotten to know the characters a bit more, Hayden in particular, but all in all a good introduction to the series. 3.25 STARS.
Sierra and Hayden have been good friends for over a year but finally admit their feelings for each other after Sierra is attacked. The romance was short, sweet, and had a couple shots of sexy. Even though there wasn't alot to work due to the shorter size of the novella, it was an enjoyable quick read. I wish I could have gotten to know the characters a bit more, Hayden in particular, but all in all a good introduction to the series. 3.25 STARS.
July 24, 2016
That was about as ordinary and generic as you can get and I yawned all the way through it. Hero, ex-SEAL, tats, gruff, heart of gold; heroine, virgin, delicate petal, beautiful but doesn't know it (big sigh) because she has a gorgeous but nasty sister; both of them not knowing the other fancies the other, everyone knows they like each other except them, stalker, hero shoots stalker and nothing happens coz of course you can just go around shooting people and everyone is glad he's dead like it happens every day of the week, nothing exciting here, they weren't excited by a co-worker dying, and neither was I, although I roused myself momentarily to be mildly surprised no-one cared.
Okay, just a short story, I really like short stories, but that was just cliche generic and didn't entice me to read anything further in this series after it if they're going to be as cliche as this, just what I've read 1,000 times before.
Okay, just a short story, I really like short stories, but that was just cliche generic and didn't entice me to read anything further in this series after it if they're going to be as cliche as this, just what I've read 1,000 times before.
October 4, 2013
I guess I already read this as part of an anthology... And I loved it then, if I re-read it, I'm sure I would love it now... :D
This story literally takes off with a bang. Both Hayden and Sierra have been in love with the other for ages, and when there's an attempt to kidnap/kill Sierra, Hayden wakes up and claims her for himself. I knew who the bad guy was from the moment he was introduced, making this story a little predictable. But true to the anthology title - Wicked - the characters have amazing chemistry in the bedroom.
I received this book as an e-galley from Katie Reus via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
This story literally takes off with a bang. Both Hayden and Sierra have been in love with the other for ages, and when there's an attempt to kidnap/kill Sierra, Hayden wakes up and claims her for himself. I knew who the bad guy was from the moment he was introduced, making this story a little predictable. But true to the anthology title - Wicked - the characters have amazing chemistry in the bedroom.
I received this book as an e-galley from Katie Reus via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
March 5, 2014
Sierra is about to meet her friend and secret crush when plans change unexpectedly and on her way to her car, she´s assaulted.
Hayden can´t belive it, not just that Sierra took off without him on their sort of date night, but that she was ambushed in the parking garage. Lucky for him, he´s got the connections to search for the guy, and the knowledge to keep her safe mean while.
Now he´s getting his chance to keep her by his side and tell her how he feels..
Great, quick read with smutty fluff, action and suspense. The start of a new series, and one I´m continuing asap =)
Hayden can´t belive it, not just that Sierra took off without him on their sort of date night, but that she was ambushed in the parking garage. Lucky for him, he´s got the connections to search for the guy, and the knowledge to keep her safe mean while.
Now he´s getting his chance to keep her by his side and tell her how he feels..
Great, quick read with smutty fluff, action and suspense. The start of a new series, and one I´m continuing asap =)
July 27, 2018
This was so good! This hero is the best example of how Katie Reus writes the most loyal heroes.
Please give me more like this.
Please give me more like this.
August 2, 2025
The series (and the book) can be read as stand-alone but the owner of the Serafina hotel and the woman who owns him have their own book in Breaking Her Rules (Red Stone Security, #6) and I would recommend reading that book first because it gives an insight to a lot of things that happen in the series.
While the book is not the best book ever written, it was entertaining and I liked how the romance between our main characters developed as well as the suspense part of the story because the author kinda planted some hints about what was going on. Hayden is book boyfriend material and Sierra is a good leading lady. To be frank, all the ladies in this series are the bomb. The problem are (surprise surprise) the men. Still, I would recommend the book and the whole series. Not book four though because the MMC is getting on my nerves
While the book is not the best book ever written, it was entertaining and I liked how the romance between our main characters developed as well as the suspense part of the story because the author kinda planted some hints about what was going on. Hayden is book boyfriend material and Sierra is a good leading lady. To be frank, all the ladies in this series are the bomb. The problem are (surprise surprise) the men. Still, I would recommend the book and the whole series. Not book four though because the MMC is getting on my nerves
September 9, 2016
AudioBook Review
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 4 Story 4
The first book in the Serafina, Sin City series is a wonderful novella and one of the better introductions to an author’s work that I have experienced. My first option to review a Katie Reus title starts in a Las Vegas casino and features characters that are familiar (I am told) from her Red Stone Security Series.
Sierra is the head chef at the casino’s restaurant, and over the past year she and Hayden have formed a great friendship, although both have a closer relationship in mind. When she is attacked leaving work one night Hayden feels the need to step in and take care of her. Security is ramping up, and the questions about the ‘who’ and ‘why’ are on everyone’s mind.
Hayden didn’t want Sierra to be alone, so he brought her home with him. While his intentions were leaning to seduction, his absorbed claiming of her, the comfort he feels with her, and the desire to share thoughts, feelings and his past with her have him confused. Always attracted to her, he was more than a bit broken when he retired from his military service, and she was the only one to call him on his bad behavior. Unknown to him, she was also fantasizing about him, and wanting to get closer, the only thing stopping her was her own issues with self-esteem. Growing up she was in the shadow of her older sister, always feeling chubby and less, and still believed that men would want her sister, not her, for romance.
While there are a couple of steamy scenes, the more heartwarming moments are the honest communication and Hayden’s willingness to try to answer questions that are not easy, and his obvious desire to claim her for his very own.
Narration is provided by Ryan Hudson, and he manages to balance soft moments with the harsher responses or action scenes without over-acting or overly emphatic expletives, tone changes or voice manipulation to indicate the different characters. It’s the perfect tone and presentation for a story told predominantly in Hayden’s point of view, and feels natural.
My first Katie Reus book, and it will not be my last – she may even convert me from my lack of interest in ex-military stories, a trope that has never really stirred me to read.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title via AudioBook Jukebox for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 4 Story 4
The first book in the Serafina, Sin City series is a wonderful novella and one of the better introductions to an author’s work that I have experienced. My first option to review a Katie Reus title starts in a Las Vegas casino and features characters that are familiar (I am told) from her Red Stone Security Series.
Sierra is the head chef at the casino’s restaurant, and over the past year she and Hayden have formed a great friendship, although both have a closer relationship in mind. When she is attacked leaving work one night Hayden feels the need to step in and take care of her. Security is ramping up, and the questions about the ‘who’ and ‘why’ are on everyone’s mind.
Hayden didn’t want Sierra to be alone, so he brought her home with him. While his intentions were leaning to seduction, his absorbed claiming of her, the comfort he feels with her, and the desire to share thoughts, feelings and his past with her have him confused. Always attracted to her, he was more than a bit broken when he retired from his military service, and she was the only one to call him on his bad behavior. Unknown to him, she was also fantasizing about him, and wanting to get closer, the only thing stopping her was her own issues with self-esteem. Growing up she was in the shadow of her older sister, always feeling chubby and less, and still believed that men would want her sister, not her, for romance.
While there are a couple of steamy scenes, the more heartwarming moments are the honest communication and Hayden’s willingness to try to answer questions that are not easy, and his obvious desire to claim her for his very own.
Narration is provided by Ryan Hudson, and he manages to balance soft moments with the harsher responses or action scenes without over-acting or overly emphatic expletives, tone changes or voice manipulation to indicate the different characters. It’s the perfect tone and presentation for a story told predominantly in Hayden’s point of view, and feels natural.
My first Katie Reus book, and it will not be my last – she may even convert me from my lack of interest in ex-military stories, a trope that has never really stirred me to read.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title via AudioBook Jukebox for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
August 17, 2013
Synopsis:
He’s dangerous, sexy, and everything she wants…
Sierra hit it off with Hayden from the moment they met. The dangerously sexy, tattooed ex-SEAL is one of the best friends she’s ever had—and the main star in her wildest fantasies. But he doesn’t see her that way. And she’d die of embarrassment if he found out she was still a virgin.
And he’s about to make his claim…
Hayden’s struggled to keep his attraction to the beautiful, dark haired casino chef a secret. He’s not good enough for her. But when an attacker targets Sierra, Hayden’s protective instincts go into overdrive. With the attraction between them burning out of control, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her and convince her they’re meant to be together.
Length: novella
My Thoughts:
First Surrender was a predictable, yet smooth and easy read.
Katie Reus has delivered another satisfying romantic suspense with First Surrender. Fans of the Red Stone Security series will love this or if you're a Katie Reus fan in general. Katie did not fail to write an exciting plot with lively characters. Like any Katie Reus stories readers are served a handful of sexiness to get their blood pumping and a dash of suspense to keep readers turning the pages.
First Surrender is a great start to an exciting & brand new series by Katie Reus. I can't wait to see what awaits us with the The Serafina: Sin City series. Anyone looking for a quick romantic fix or simply looking to get lost in a sexy story, I'd recommend you pick up First Surrender.
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
He’s dangerous, sexy, and everything she wants…
Sierra hit it off with Hayden from the moment they met. The dangerously sexy, tattooed ex-SEAL is one of the best friends she’s ever had—and the main star in her wildest fantasies. But he doesn’t see her that way. And she’d die of embarrassment if he found out she was still a virgin.
And he’s about to make his claim…
Hayden’s struggled to keep his attraction to the beautiful, dark haired casino chef a secret. He’s not good enough for her. But when an attacker targets Sierra, Hayden’s protective instincts go into overdrive. With the attraction between them burning out of control, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her and convince her they’re meant to be together.
Length: novella
My Thoughts:
First Surrender was a predictable, yet smooth and easy read.
Katie Reus has delivered another satisfying romantic suspense with First Surrender. Fans of the Red Stone Security series will love this or if you're a Katie Reus fan in general. Katie did not fail to write an exciting plot with lively characters. Like any Katie Reus stories readers are served a handful of sexiness to get their blood pumping and a dash of suspense to keep readers turning the pages.
First Surrender is a great start to an exciting & brand new series by Katie Reus. I can't wait to see what awaits us with the The Serafina: Sin City series. Anyone looking for a quick romantic fix or simply looking to get lost in a sexy story, I'd recommend you pick up First Surrender.
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2013
First Surrender by Katie Reus is the kick off novella to a new series titled The Serafina: Sin City series. It includes a couple of characters from Katie's Red Stone Security series. In First Surrender we meet Hayden, second in command for security at The Serafina hotel owned by Wyatt Christensen where his wife, Iris is head of security. We also meet Sierra, head chef at the restaurant in the hotel. Hayden and Sierra have been friends for a long time, but it takes an attack on Sierra to push them both over the line of friendship into lovers.
First Surrender is sweet and passionate and a very, very quick read. Hayden really cares for Sierra and his protective instincts kick in after he learns Sierra is attacked. I thought that was sweet, especially since they kept their relationship pretty platonic with not touching, hugging. However, I was then surprised at how crude he could be in some of the language he used when describing what he wanted to do to her intimately. I was just taken back by it I guess since he knew she was so innocent and wanted to treat her well. Perhaps it was because the story just wasn't long enough to develop the characters or the plot as much as I would have wanted. I knew going it that it was a novella, so I wasn't completely surprised. I did like what little I learned about Hayden and Sierra in general and sure hope to see them in future books in the series.
If you like short, quick stories and are not too worried about connecting too deeply with the story or the characters, I recommend First Surrender. If you plan to read Katie's new series, this is the novella that sets that up and is a recommended read.
First Surrender is sweet and passionate and a very, very quick read. Hayden really cares for Sierra and his protective instincts kick in after he learns Sierra is attacked. I thought that was sweet, especially since they kept their relationship pretty platonic with not touching, hugging. However, I was then surprised at how crude he could be in some of the language he used when describing what he wanted to do to her intimately. I was just taken back by it I guess since he knew she was so innocent and wanted to treat her well. Perhaps it was because the story just wasn't long enough to develop the characters or the plot as much as I would have wanted. I knew going it that it was a novella, so I wasn't completely surprised. I did like what little I learned about Hayden and Sierra in general and sure hope to see them in future books in the series.
If you like short, quick stories and are not too worried about connecting too deeply with the story or the characters, I recommend First Surrender. If you plan to read Katie's new series, this is the novella that sets that up and is a recommended read.
August 25, 2013
I loved that this novella starts off immediately with the action. I read it in one sitting because I just had to know the ending. Although I was able to identify the villain pretty quickly, it in no way took from the story. This in my opinion was the love affair between Hayden and Sierra.
I am not a fan of the dreaded "virgin" heroine unless it is in a historical. However, I loved the fact that Katie Reus did not make this the primary focus of the story. The reader finds out at the right time and it is not overly stated by the author. Thank You!!
You should read this book if for no other reason than for the sexy alpha ex-Navy Seal Hayden. You fall for him the minute he appears on the pages. I can understand why Sierra fell for him. I am so looking forward to the next installment.
I am not a fan of the dreaded "virgin" heroine unless it is in a historical. However, I loved the fact that Katie Reus did not make this the primary focus of the story. The reader finds out at the right time and it is not overly stated by the author. Thank You!!
You should read this book if for no other reason than for the sexy alpha ex-Navy Seal Hayden. You fall for him the minute he appears on the pages. I can understand why Sierra fell for him. I am so looking forward to the next installment.
August 16, 2013
A Great new spin off series.
I believe this will be another great series by Katie.
I enjoyed the humor and possessiveness in Hayden. Sierra played right into that humor. They were just friends. Both wanting more from each other but did not know how the other one felt. When a threat comes along it makes both of them face their feelings for each other.
Thanks for another great story. I will be looking forward to the next one.
I believe this will be another great series by Katie.
I enjoyed the humor and possessiveness in Hayden. Sierra played right into that humor. They were just friends. Both wanting more from each other but did not know how the other one felt. When a threat comes along it makes both of them face their feelings for each other.
Thanks for another great story. I will be looking forward to the next one.
August 19, 2013
This was FAN-FREAKIN-BLOODY-EFFIN-AMAZINGLY-TASTIC!!!! Everything that I have come to associate with Katie and her writing; majorly hot and sexy with an UBER-ALPHA male... *PHWOAR* This story is a spin off, of Katie's Red Stone Security series (which I bloody LOVED as well!) and is the start of a new series; The Serafina: Sin City , and all I can say is PLEASE, KATIE, CAN I HAVE SOME MORE 
August 24, 2013
4 stars – Contemporary Romance/Romantic Suspense Novella
This was one of my favorite stories in the Wicked Firsts compilation.
This was one of my favorite stories in the Wicked Firsts compilation.
August 13, 2016
This was hot! I love friends to lovers stories, and it didn't hurt that Hayden was an ex Navy SEAL! With a hint of mystery and a whole lot of scorching hot sex, this is a series I will definitely be keeping up with!
August 25, 2018
A fun and sexy start to Katie’s Serafina: Sin City series!
First Surrender by Katie Reus is the first smoldering novella in her Serafina: Sin City series set in Las Vegas. It’s a friends-to-lovers tale featuring ex-Navy-SEAL Hayden, who is now the sexy-as-sin, tattooed head of security at the hotel, and Sierra, head chef at one of the Serafina’s popular restaurants. They are besties who harbor secret lustful feelings for each other – but neither will make a move as it may ruin what they have. But, when Sierra is attacked by a stalker, alpha-to-the-core Hayden seizes the opportunity to kill two birds with one stone – to stake his claim and to keep her safe.
Following please find a few of my favorite lines from First Surrender:
“When he’d seen her standing at the stove. . . . that familiar wave of possessiveness and love had welled up in him. He felt it every time he saw her. It was jarring, foreign and…perfect.
---
“The only thing I want to hear out of your mouth is 'faster', 'slower' or 'f*** me harder, Hayden'.”
---
“I fell like all I've done is keep you naked the last week."
"And that's a bad thing?”
I can’t get enough of Katie’s books and First Surrender is no exception. The story may be short, but the characters are well-developed. Their relationship is low angst and thoroughly entertaining. It is seventy pages of sure-fire, delicious combustion - the perfect book to pick up for a quickie before bed. Next up is Hayden's brother’s story in Sensual Surrender!
First Surrender by Katie Reus is the first smoldering novella in her Serafina: Sin City series set in Las Vegas. It’s a friends-to-lovers tale featuring ex-Navy-SEAL Hayden, who is now the sexy-as-sin, tattooed head of security at the hotel, and Sierra, head chef at one of the Serafina’s popular restaurants. They are besties who harbor secret lustful feelings for each other – but neither will make a move as it may ruin what they have. But, when Sierra is attacked by a stalker, alpha-to-the-core Hayden seizes the opportunity to kill two birds with one stone – to stake his claim and to keep her safe.
Following please find a few of my favorite lines from First Surrender:
“When he’d seen her standing at the stove. . . . that familiar wave of possessiveness and love had welled up in him. He felt it every time he saw her. It was jarring, foreign and…perfect.
---
“The only thing I want to hear out of your mouth is 'faster', 'slower' or 'f*** me harder, Hayden'.”
---
“I fell like all I've done is keep you naked the last week."
"And that's a bad thing?”
I can’t get enough of Katie’s books and First Surrender is no exception. The story may be short, but the characters are well-developed. Their relationship is low angst and thoroughly entertaining. It is seventy pages of sure-fire, delicious combustion - the perfect book to pick up for a quickie before bed. Next up is Hayden's brother’s story in Sensual Surrender!
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