**Intended for Mature Audiences Only (18+)** Elyssa Hart has tried to forget that frightful night during her freshman year of college. Since then it's been hard to let anyone close, which is why she only has one friend near and dear to her heart. Forsaking all others, she lives a silent, lonely existence. That was until she jumped into the next chapter of her life; Sales Executive at the prestigious Salerno Health, Inc.
The moment she met the always calm and collected Alexander James, her life was set on a new path. One moment she's slowly falling in love and the next she's plummeting painfully to the ground with the realization that you don't marry your dirty little secret; you keep her in the closet. That was, until she found out she was not his only kept secret.
Will the enigma of Mr. James be more than Elyssa can handle? Or will she choose him, like she promised she always would.
Ann currently lives in Las Vegas with her beautiful family. She's been actively writing now for several years between working full time. When she's not at work, school, or spending time with her family...she's completely absorbed in a book!
Boy meets girl, they feel an instant connection, boy turns out to be girl's boss, YOU THINK YOU KNOW WHAT WILL HAPPEN but man was this book so unpredictable!
Our Mr James is HOT, I was a goner the moment the dimples were mentioned...
The connection between the two was believable, the author managed to convey the sexual chemistry greatly.
I was annoyed with Elyssa and Alex's jealousy issues and immaturity, hope to see much needed character growth in the second book, oh yeah there is a second book. Every time he would get jealous or she would act insecure, I wanted to scream!!
When they finally did the deed, IT WAS HOT, Especially the one in the dance club, YUP PUBLIC SEX!
The moment Alex's secret was revealed, I was completely shocked as it was something I never expected!
AS FOR MY FEELINGS FOR ARIANNA, WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!!! EWWWW EWWWW EWWWW!
Looking forward to reading more about Alex and Elyssa and sharing their journey towards the HEA....
“I can't be held responsible for what I do, when my mind doesn't comprehend my heart's desire.”
Chosen Heart is definitely intriguing and sweeping of feet romance story, that every romance junkie will eat up. This is a pure entertaiment and sexy, loveable read. Before beginning I was a little bit sceptic, because I thought Chosen Heart plot has nothing fresh in it and there wouldn’t be anything I could be surprised by. I’m really glad I was wrong, though. I had a great time, while reading Stewart and Nash’s book and some revelations definitely astonished me. And, well when something can purplex me, then I can honestly say book is well thought and great written. Especially when the usual plot with work affair has few wonderful twists and turns that can make it refreshing.
I really liked how Alexander was created. Sexy buisnessman in suit and tie, with yummy alpha male streak, still yet, amazingly caring and tortured, enigmatic man. Something in him makes ladies be moths to his flame, and I wasn’t an exception. I fell for his smirk and cocky attidute in instant.
I also found Elyssa likeable and realistic character. She wasn’t whiney or annoying, which made reading Chosen Hearts pleasurable experience.
Together they were so smokin’ hot that I devoured every steamy scene, while grinning like an idiot and the perv I am.
This is a really entertaining read for all the ladies that are likely to get hooked on some sexy, dominant man and adore to read about passionate love that isn’t only rainbows, fluffy bunnies and unicorns.
Hmmmm.....well that was interesting. Not to mention a bit frustrating and a bit f*cked up.
Clearly this is probably another case of "it's not you, it's me"....but this one really didn't work for me. So much just didn't add up or make sense and I don't know if it's because there is more plot to be revealed or what?!?!
So Chosen Heart is the story of Elyssa and Alex. Elyssa's parents died in a plane crash when she was 10 and she was raised by her sister Rachel who I believe is 10 years older. The story takes place in Vegas and starts with Elyssa getting a new job at Salerno Health--family friend Arianna is the CEO.
Elyssa and Alex first see each other at a gas station and are instantly attracted to each other....they can't look away from each other....sparks are flying. They don't talk and Elyssa is left wondering if she will ever see him again.
Well
Of course she will....they're going to be working together. So now we have a little office romance brewing. But due to strict no fraternization policies, Elyssa has to remain Alex's dirty little secret.
Frankly, these two were somewhat toxic. To me, they both acted so immature--especially for being mid-twenties (h) and early thirties (H). The jealousy....oh my LAWD! It was so over-the-top and not warranted.
Alex really freaked the f*ck out about Cole--Elyssa's BFF. I mean, damn killer...
IDK, I just didn't get the whole jealousy thing on both of their parts. So as if the jealousy thing wasn't enough, these two are both keeping all kinds of secrets. Just when things start to work out for Alex and Elyssa, more secrets are revealed.
Alex's secret....
He was a ??? Really?? And ??? And she's been him??? I've got to be honest....I was NOT expecting that! At all! And I don't really know what to think. I mean I knew something was up between them but that???
Arianna...
I don't understand your compulsion to "save" Elyssa. And protect her....this is the part of the story or the connection that I think I am missing. Or maybe it hasn't been revealed?? IDK! I'm so confused. Why would Elyssa even belive her? Or listen to her? And what the hell did she do to Rachel??? Is that connected???
The book most definitely ended on a cliffhanger. Everything is up in the air. And now it looks like we may have a love triangle with the addition of in the mix.
And the epilogue?!?! Sweet Baby Jesus that was f*cked up! Now Arianna is blackmailing ???
What's your motive Arianna????
I'd be lying if I said a small part of me didn't want to know what the hell is going on. I just wish I liked the main characters a little more. I guess it depends on how long I have to wait for the sequel as to whether or not I will read it.
I will say the sex was pretty HOT! That's always a plus in my book!!!["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>
I have a love hate relationship with this book.... I love the story and everything, I am freaking hating the characters but they are so perfect together it works.
Elyssa was on her way to her first day on a new job at Salerno Hearth, inc when she had to stop for gas... she saw this hot gorgeous man she's definitely definitely attracted to big time. But lo and behold, said hot alpha is her VP James Alexander.
Elyssa couldn't keep from drooling and fantasizing over James and James seems to give her mixed signal, likes her and ignores her. But attraction wins over and hence starts their secret relationship. And let me tell you, together, they are hot!
Elyssa and James insecurities, their jealousies are omg over the top!!!! Gah!!!! Elyssa so naive and insecure.... James sooo alpha male and jealous.... it's frustrating! Add to that, James is so darn mysterious too but when his secret is revealed, I was shocked!
And what Arianna plays on this story is ugh, she's an evil witch and just ewwwwww definitely!!!
Normally, I hate cliffys, but with this, I say thank God cause I need to breathe... hope they work on their insecurities on the next book and I definitely hope for a happy ending.
I really wanted to like this book. I did not feel a connection with the characters or where the story was going. This story simply did not work for me. The writing on the other hand was great.
Will come back to it one day and hopefully be able to feel something.
Copy provided by author for exchanged for an honest review.
The prologue of Chosen Heart dragged me into this story immediately. It was beautifully descriptive and set me on a mission to uncover exactly what it was that led to the events of that day.
Secrets, non-disclosures, a clandestine relationship, office gossip, hidden pasts, baggage aplenty, miscommunication, frustration, trust issues and an attraction that sizzles off the pages. This was Chosen Heart and I was sucked in completely.
“Being with you makes me forget everything and I guess that’s what scares me.”
We first meet Elyssa and Alex when they first exchange heated glances at a petrol station. Their paths once again cross and the mutual attraction between the two is electric. No denying that!
Elyssa and Alex both carry a lot of baggage; both have secrets from their pasts which they would prefer stay hidden. For these two, breaking down the walls, communicating, trusting and opening to one another is foreign concept and on both sides the trust issues are major and destructive.
“Fuck,” he breathes. “I never want to be without you again. Never again…promise me?”
For a couple with such intense attraction and feelings, keeping their relationship a secret in the workplace is extremely difficult. The jealousy, the possessiveness, the want…..it’s all bubbling below the surface, just waiting to escape. But hidden it must stay to ensure they adhere to the company’s strict non fraternisation code. Easier said than done right?
“She’s mine. You put your hands on her again and I’ll fucking break them.”
I revelled in the slow dance between these two. The anticipation was played out in an excruciatingly slow manner to allow us to savour every minute as we learn the issues that have plagued both Elyssa and Alex. But even when their pasts are brought to light, dealing and moving on will prove difficult. There is much standing in the way of their happiness and working their way through it isn’t easy and every moment is exposed slowly to capture every heartbreaking moment.
‘I’d die a thousand deaths for him to continue to look at me this way.”
I thought I had most things worked out but I have to say, I surprised at some. Mr Alexander James. What this man does to a suit! Whoa! Where to start with this guy! The enigmatic, demanding, stubborn, impatient, possessive Mr James was divine! He was certainly intense and he did keep me on my toes. Geez, could this man spin his emotions on a penny!
‘I know he’s acutely aware of how attractive he is. You can tell in his posture, the way he leaves his jacket partially unbuttoned revealing just enough of his slim waits and tight ass, his smug smirk. He has to know what he does to me.’
For everything Elyssa had been dealt in her life she is still quite naïve and nowhere near as worldly as Alexander James. This man is completely career driven and nothing gets in his way. Meeting Elyssa, the feisty no nonsense girl who defies all women before her completely blindsides him and letting her in could mean opening up old wounds.
I did find a few parts of the story dragged towards the end, some scenes were a little repetitive and I did feel it could have been condensed down some. There were a few misspelt words /typos here and there but these in no detracted from my overall enjoyment of Chosen Heart.
Chosen Heart is a great debut from these two authors. They provided me with a story that kept me engaged, entertained and yes….very frustrated at times and you can guarantee I’ll be picking up Shattered Hearts when it is released. This does end with a cliffy of sorts. It wasn't a huge one for me and I'm quite happy to wait for book two, but I will be onto it as soon as it's released. Whilst the theme is certainly similar to a lot of books out there, the story and the characters felt original and I can’t wait for more.
I love this book! It's not normally the kind of book that I read, but I got sucked in by the twists and turns of this torrid romance. The writing is very well done. Almost done and I know I'll be left with wanting more! Thank god it's going to be a series!
I found this book very much at random. Another blog posted how amazing it was, and I thought I'd give it a try. Very glad I did. This book pretty much took over my life until I finished it (which was a little over a day).
Elyssa Hart is emotionally closed off from everyone except her sister. She lost both her parents, and one night of bad judgment in college scarred her enough to only keep one friend - the loyal and very annoyingly frustrating ex boyfriend Cole. She starts a new job as a sales executive. and like everyone else, she notices the very hot and oddly young for a Senior VP, Alexander James.
This part of the story may be a little familiar, but what affected me most was how you felt a real connection between Alex and Elyssa. Alex is still hiding something, as is Elyssa, but they open up and really let each other in. The Alex he showed Alyssa was very different than the moody executive he chose to show others. Still demanding and possessive like your typical alpha, but burned and scared like a child. You can't help but love Alex, even through his jealous mood swings. I really liked Elyssa too, but I grew frustrated at her for not sending an obviously pining-for-her Cole away long ago. Cole made me uneasy - his love for Elyssa obviously a ticking time bomb that will cost her later on.
Then something happens that you kind of see coming but really not at all, turning everything upside down. You really have no idea what will happen at this point because the game has completely changed for everyone involved. It doesn't end on a cliffhanger, but nothing is resolved. It will leave you as a reader like me, anxiously awaiting book #2, Shattered Heart.
Alex is an intense person but he's also protective, "she's mine. You put your hands on her again and I'll effing break them." Elyssa has issues and she's also intense but it seems her and Alex are arguing more while they're in a relationship, "what did you do? Besides practically ignoring me all day, you then felt it was okay to insult me during the entire meeting. And to top it all off, now you're making accusations about me and Joseph!" She's a spitfire and what's on her mind comes out of her mouth, "talk? Are you effing kidding me? I've been trying to talk to you for four days! Any one of those days would have been the time to talk. You chose to blow me off, ignore me, and treat me like another notch on your belt." I mean seriously Alex and Elyssa's relationship is messed up it's like if he can't have her no one can, "she doesn't need your company. Prescott! My Sales Executive is fine exactly where she is." I'm ready for the next book.
If you like strong, tell it like it is, fully capable women...Elyssa Hart is your girl. If you like intense, hot, domineering men...Alexander James is your guy.
A romance with unexpected turns and a love left with no choices.
Okay, I need to decompress. SO much just went down..
First of all, I freaking love Alex, and Elyssa.. *Swoon* I know some are comparing this to the Crossfire series, I beg to differ.. At least these characters aren't nut cases (no offense to all the crossfire fanatics).. Their poor relationship could not catch a break. I couldn't read this book fast enough. I LOVED how this book didn't follow any of the typical story lines.. There was always angst, yet sweet moments wrapped in between... But that ending K.I.L.L.E.D me.. I know there is a second book, so I'm okay (as much as I can be) that they didn't get their HEA .. But I just pray I can make it through the next book.. Clearly Arianna is Elyssa's mom.. Although she is a nut case (certifiable).. Ugh I just want Elyssa and Alex to have little green eyed babies and live happily ever after. Can't Cole and Oliver just vanish?! (too much?) All I'm saying is Elyssa better step up to the plate in the next book and start fighting for HER HEART! If Alex was my man I would not be rolling over and playing dead :p
This book definitely had it all: romance, angst, steam, unique story line, good character development.. and lots of PLOTTING.. And the sweetest endearment ever "My hart".. *sigh*
Chosen Heart is a love story between a new sales executive and the Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Salerno Health. Elyssa and Alex saw each other at a gas station the day Elyssa started at Salerno Health. She was instantly attracted to him and kept thinking about him on her way to work. She thought she would never see him again....that is until he stepped onto the elevator at her new work. Neither one can deny the spark they feel for each other and they soon begin to date. But their dark pasts catch up with them. Can they forgive themselves and each other for the things they have done. Or were they doomed from the start?
I really enjoyed reading this book! I definitely lost sleep because I couldn't wait to find out what their secret's were and if they would end up together! I absolutely love the main characters! It is so adorable how Alex is with his Nana! He is just so sweet! The supporting characters were also very well written so you can't help but not like Cole or Arianna (at least in the end).
I would definitely recommend this book and I can't wait to read the sequel!
Chosen Heart is a realistic love story with drama and twists at each turn. Elyssa Hart, a down to earth woman with her own history to deal with, now has much more than she bargained for with her love interest, and influential man, Alexander James. What Alex wants he absolutely always gets, and what he wants is Ely. And the way he goes about it, is domineering and hot. This is a story of practical love, a love that doesn't feel fictional. I felt as if I knew the characters personally, as if Ely was me or my best friend, and her feeling were honest; they read true. Alex's passion for his family, work and love made you want to know more about where his life has lead him and how the outcomes have shaped his life. Chosen Heart is a romance that has you wanting this beautiful relationship to evolve and makes you feel like love does exists in this powerful way. Chosen Heart is a dramatic, sometimes action packed, love story that I did not want to stop reading.
Is anyone else dying to read the next book?! I couldn't put it down. It was very heart felt and with all the different twist and turns this book is not what you would expect at all in the end. Especially the decision Elyssa has to make. I cant wait to see how the next one is going to pan out. Keep the books coming Ladies!!!!
The story begins with Elyssa getting a new job at Salerno Health, on her way to her first day at the job she see's a man who she thinks is the most gorgeous man she has ever seen. But she has to leave to get to work, but still can't get him out of her head.
Getting to her new job and waiting at the elevators Elyssa looks up and see's none other than the gorgeous man from the gas station. Her new boss, VP, Alexander James. Instantly she feels the spark again and tells herself to calm down she only just met him.
Alex and Elyssa start to spend time together and mysteriously Alex is always there to save the day for Elyssa. But Elyssa is very confused by Alex, at times he is caring and possessive of her and other times he is cold and distant.
"One moment he's looking at me as if I'm prety, and the next he's ordering me around like his servant." - Elyssa
Alex and Elyssa decide to start seeing each other and see where this path will take them. But they have to keep it a secret because they work together. But they are both very insecure in the relationship, being that they have to keep it a secret neither of them can claim the other in a public setting so they are forced to sit back and watch other people flirt with them and are not able to do anything about it. Which drives Alex crazy!!!
"I don't want you seeing him tonight."
"You can't control me, Alex. You can't intimidate me one moment, kiss me the next and then make demands." - Alex & Elyssa
Elyssa and Alex's relationship goes from one extreme to the next, it's non stop drama and jealousy issues. But through all that they fall in love and start opening up to each other.
Big secrets are revealed and situations where both Alex and Elyssa are hurt get forgiven. But every time they take one step forward in their relationship outside forces drag them back to struggling to trust each other and hurting each other with not knowing how to cope with their insecurities.
"What do you want to do, Elyssa? You want to hit me? Fucking hit me! get it over with so I can finally talk to you." - Alex
Through all the drama they always find their way back to each other, being without the other isn't living and isn't an option for them. They need each other too much.
Then! BAM! Alex's secret is out and WOW gotta say I didn't see it coming, well I knew half of it but the how and why is OMG! Elyssa is devastated.
"You know before this... I would have stayed with you forever." - Elyssa
Yes there is a cliffhanger, book 2 is out March 3rd 2014.
Now on being 4 stars and not 5, First reason - the over the top jealousy and this is coming from someone who LOVES jealously and possessive alpha men but almost every page was some sort of jealousy from Elyssa and Alex and the rest of the world seemed to want them as well.
Second, ARGH!!! Elyssa! most frustrating heroine EVER! Her actions regarding the jealousy issues were just the most frustrating thing in the world I wanted to seriously punch something when she would sit at the table with another man have him hold her hand when she knew how crazy Alex got over another man just talking to her let alone sitting there holding her hand, oh and going to lunch with another guy while the man you love is in so much pain I mean, does she love Alex at all!!! Elyssa's character was either very naive or just stupid! I'm going with stupid cos she always worked it out in her head that if Alex did that to her it would hurt her but she still went ahead and freaking did it! Argh! I seriously hate her stupidity! Frustrating heroine is a huge pet peeve of mine so that is why I'm so cranky, I loved the story and the twists but the heroine's actions to some situations ruined it for me.
What I liked... Alpha male Alex! Loved him! The story never bored me, it kept me interested and I was always eager to turn the page and see what was going to happen. I liked the twists and Elyssa's sister Rachael. I loved when Alex and Elyssa were doing well those moments were beautiful and how much they love each other is what made the story for me.
Will I read book 2? Yes I probably will, I've seen the synopsis and I can see the direction it's going to go in and that will probably seriously make me break my kindle this time lol!!!
Tracey already did a review of Chosen Heart but she said I would really enjoy it and wanted me to read it. I have to say this book had me talking to my Kindle. The back and forth between Alex and Elyssa was making me crazy! I thought they were amazing together but the obstacles that kept getting in their way were infuriating. I so badly wanted Elyssa to stand up to Arianna and tell her what she had with Alex was worth losing everything for. I also wanted Elyssa to tell Alex the truth and stop breaking his heart over and over. The man clearly saw her as his entire world. Unfortunately, his past was too riddled with doubt and his man-whorish ways for her to easily accept it.
Sometimes you need to risk it all and throw caution to the wind. It seemed every time the two of them got started they were then knocked back down a peg or two. Just as a bought of angst was resolved; the authors built the walls back up and sent me on another ride. If only Elyssa was able to gain some self-confidence, grow a backbone and fight for what she knows is hers.
I can already tell the next book in the series, Shattered Heart, will be a page turner. Not only does the title suggest the story is headed towards major angst, the epilogue showed Arianna is plotting away again. I would like to give that sugar momma a piece of my mind!
Although frustrating (in a good way), this book is worth the read. Authors Ann Stewart and Stephanie Nash have gained a new fan. Hurry up and go get it!! You won’t be bored with this one.
How good it is to read a book so well written that you drown yourself in every page? How sweet it is to read a book that makes you forget about the time and place? How wondrous it is to reed a book that makes you feel like you are right there together with the characters whatching every scene? This is what I am feeling right now at 40% at 4am. So sorry I need to go to bed... This book is so well written it hurts. The story is interesting, but nothing extraordinary. The thing is the way Ann gets to tell a story that keeps you attached to every word and makes you relate deeply with the characters.
Dear Ann,
you can write what whatever the hell you wish and I will read because you have a gift woman!
Well, I've invested the last 3 nights to this and every minute has been worth it. I was trying to second guess throughout and was surprised on most things, not totally predictable which I loved. I love that Ely and Alex are as feisty as each other, both are strong characters, but I don't know if this time away is gonna resolve anything?? The epilogue has left me incensed, she's such a manipulative bitch, I need to know why Rachel hates her, what else has she done?? I only hope book 2 Shattered Heart answers all, I can't wait, I need it now!!!! Very highly recommended, lovers of This Man Trilogy will love this too
The plot was dynamic and kept me thoroughly engaged! Although I wish the female characters were more clearly described, the rest of the book, and the males in it, were full of detail. By the time I reached chapter 4, I found myself eagerly "turning pages" (on my kindle) trying to see what was going to happen between Elyssa and Mr. James. I am anticipating the next book in the series, and wish the authors would write faster!! The suspense is killing me!
Starts off as a simple love story about two people who shouldn't be together, but with her naivety and his jealousy, it works. They both don't know how to be in a relationship, but the chemistry and love they have for each other is too much to give up.
So at first I thought, 'Oh, okay, another insta-lust erotica', but after reading a few more chapters I realized, this one was a little better than others. I love how the author explains the hero's feelings here, it's like I don't need to read his pov because he verbalizes it well to the heroine. Not that all guys are like that, but I love it here. This book ends in a cliffhanger... I know... it's sad, but what can we do? JUST WAIT.
Anyway, I also like how the heroine expresses her "what's the best thing to do" to the hero, 'cos if she just broke up with him in a cliche manner and said bad and irritating things(which I really hate to some books) then I'd really snap! but thankfully, she did what she needed to do but not in a hurtful way, and not ending it in a bad way. Space is space. They both need it. Can't wait for book 2! Hoping for a steamier and sexier scenes!
And I definitely hate this Arianna! I wonder what her problem is! I just hope she'll not ruin the H/h relationship in a cliche way, and that goes to the main characters too.
Fantastic read!!! Couldn't put it down.. chapter after chapter it kept me up late at night! I couldnt put it down until I was finished. Now I cant wait to see what else is going to happen. Elyssa is a great character.. but.. I am more interested in seeing what happened to Alex before, where is he going now, is he going to stay at Salerno, is he going to keep up with Ariana, what is going to happen to Nana!!!?? I cant wait until the next one comes out! I will make sure to add it to my must reads!!
Wow oh wow!! This book has been absolutely fantastic, it's had me utterly gripped throughout. Alex is so feisty and a serious alpha male, Ely can too be a feisty little madam with her jealous moments, the characters are all so well described so you visualise each and every one of them so well. I've stopped breathing at some point's, and cried when emotions were so high. I need book two now!! What will happen next?? Please dear God let them have their happy ever after!! Is it possible with so many hurdles? Ann Stewart and Stephanie Nash I have loved every second :-)) so recommended....
I really enjoyed reading this story. I enjoyed the story behind the main characters and how their story was developed throughout the story. I couldn't stop reading and now I am ready for the next book. I really wish the authors lots of success with their future writings and I am already a fan!!!!
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. The tension between Elyssa and Alex is dramatic, but believable. If I were in Elyssa's shoes, I would have acted the same. She needs to protect her heart, I get that, but at what cost. Can't wait for the next one.