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Surrender
I was his.
To touch.
Anywhere.
Any time he wanted.
To touch.
Anywhere.
Any time he wanted.
Abby is ready to agree to anything to stop her brother from going to prison, but Kameron Maldondo, the owner of MalTech Corporation, is asking for the unexpected. Enthralled by his commanding brilliance, she agrees to be his assistant, at his beck and call for whatever he needs--whenever and however he wants. What that means is for him to decide and for her to submit to. Frightened yet fascinated by what he promises, Abby becomes a willing captive to his caress, undone by his peerless touch, a quivering submission to an aching need for complete carnal surrender. . .
336 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
29 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Tawny Taylor
118 books443 followersNothing exciting happens in Tawny Taylor's life, unless you count giving the cat a flea dip--a cat can make some fascinating sounds when immersed chin-deep in insecticide--or chasing after a houseful of upchucking kids during flu season. She doesn't travel the world or employ a staff of personal servants. She's not even built like a runway model. She's just your run-of-the-mill, pleasantly plump Detroit suburban mom and wife.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
May 10, 2014
This book may have been about passion and SURRENDER, but I wanted to run. Run for the hills and never look back. I might have done it, too, but I felt a compelling need to finish this tale. Maybe so I could write this review, expunge this novel from my brain, and pretend that my life is filled with rainbows and pixie sticks. Or maybe I have a slightly sadistic nature when it comes to my reading material.
I like candy, and therefore I like candy books. I had hoped to add this book to my pastel collection. This novel, however, left a taste so sour in my mouth that I swallowed a bottle of Listerine, and yet the last hint of sourness still lingers between my teeth or under my tongue or maybe it’s at the back of my throat. Any way you slice it, though, it’s a battle that I lost, and come to think of it, I probably was never really in this fight to begin with.
Let’s start with the good. The sex. There was plenty of it to saturate my male fantasies, and still leave me with a few bated breaths for the next rip-roaring horizontal tango. And now I’m done with the good. So, in that regard, this book probably fits right in with Karen’s monster porn series. Only there were no monsters, unless you count acting like teenagers well beyond your teenage years in the monster category. Yeah, it scared the shit out of me, too.
I didn’t just dislike Abby and Kameron, although I’d rather not delve into another four-letter word just yet, so we’ll skip on by that particular calamity. The dialogue made me cringe in fear and cower in the corner. Both of these mishaps affected the sex, but we’re still in a plus on the BDSM factor. Call me a generous soul.
But then we get to the plot. Which was a bit all over the place. Had this book intensified its focus, we might have been able to add another plus here or there. But, yeah, we’ve got another minus in this particular realm. The rest of the characters proved to be mostly idiots and miscreants, and the supposed pretzel twist was a bit too easy to unravel. The story loop skipped ahead a few frames as I turned the pages, similar to a movie reel that someone had hacked away at with a pair of scissors. Possibly one of the “teenagers” from this novel.
The loves me-hates me-loves me dance grew mold way too quickly, and I had to clamp down on whatever ridiculous notions were about to pop into my brain. So, yeah, I made it to the end, but I’m not particularly happy about it.
I received this book for free through NetGalley.
Cross-posted at Robert's Reads
I like candy, and therefore I like candy books. I had hoped to add this book to my pastel collection. This novel, however, left a taste so sour in my mouth that I swallowed a bottle of Listerine, and yet the last hint of sourness still lingers between my teeth or under my tongue or maybe it’s at the back of my throat. Any way you slice it, though, it’s a battle that I lost, and come to think of it, I probably was never really in this fight to begin with.
Let’s start with the good. The sex. There was plenty of it to saturate my male fantasies, and still leave me with a few bated breaths for the next rip-roaring horizontal tango. And now I’m done with the good. So, in that regard, this book probably fits right in with Karen’s monster porn series. Only there were no monsters, unless you count acting like teenagers well beyond your teenage years in the monster category. Yeah, it scared the shit out of me, too.
I didn’t just dislike Abby and Kameron, although I’d rather not delve into another four-letter word just yet, so we’ll skip on by that particular calamity. The dialogue made me cringe in fear and cower in the corner. Both of these mishaps affected the sex, but we’re still in a plus on the BDSM factor. Call me a generous soul.
But then we get to the plot. Which was a bit all over the place. Had this book intensified its focus, we might have been able to add another plus here or there. But, yeah, we’ve got another minus in this particular realm. The rest of the characters proved to be mostly idiots and miscreants, and the supposed pretzel twist was a bit too easy to unravel. The story loop skipped ahead a few frames as I turned the pages, similar to a movie reel that someone had hacked away at with a pair of scissors. Possibly one of the “teenagers” from this novel.
The loves me-hates me-loves me dance grew mold way too quickly, and I had to clamp down on whatever ridiculous notions were about to pop into my brain. So, yeah, I made it to the end, but I’m not particularly happy about it.
I received this book for free through NetGalley.
Cross-posted at Robert's Reads
April 27, 2014
Title: Surrender
Author:Tawny Taylor
Publisher/Year: Kensington Publishing 5/27/14
Length: 336 Pages
Overview
Abby is ready to agree to anything to stop her brother from going to prison, but Kameron Maldondo, the owner of MalTech Corporation, is asking for the unexpected. Enthralled by his commanding brilliance, she agrees to be his assistant, at his beck and call for whatever he needs--whenever and however he wants. What that means is for him to decide and for her to submit to. Frightened yet fascinated by what he promises, Abby becomes a willing captive to his caress, undone by his peerless touch, a quivering submission to an aching need for complete carnal surrender. . .
My Thoughts
When i took a peek on Goodreads, i saw that most people weren't overly thrilled with this book, and that made me a bit weary. the good thing is that i don't usually care much about what other people think of a book, and decided to read this one anyway. I think that i was pleasantly surprised with depth of the story that we got.
The summary gives you a sense that she would really just be Kam's assistant/sex slave and sub, but that's not really where things even get going to. While that's how their relationship begins, mind you Abby really would do anything to protect her brother, that's not where things evolve to because we learn that Kam really is much more human than the first few chapters lead us to believe.
This story takes us on a journey of these 2 trying to figure out what they mean to each other, all the while - Abby is trying to find out who really stole the 'things' that Kam and MalTech think that her brother took. While her brother claims innocence, and Abby believes him, his past is too tainted for anyone else to believe it, and if he didn't do it, there was a really good set up.
The other great thing is that this story takes a nice dark twist about 2/3 of the way through - what you don't expect to happen does, and that means that there's going to be someone on the run, and the folks that get called on things aren't the ones that were initially set up in the story.
I don't think that i've read anything by this author before, although there's plenty that i've discovered that i can now, and i have to say that we get a nice mix of bondage play and romance to make a story good. Without the fact that we know Kam is very into tying people up, he's still really sensual and knows how to make a scene steamy. I'm happy to say that i don't agree with most of the reviews that i read saying that this story wasn't good. maybe a bit predictable, but still good nonetheless.
Author:Tawny Taylor
Publisher/Year: Kensington Publishing 5/27/14
Length: 336 Pages
Overview
Abby is ready to agree to anything to stop her brother from going to prison, but Kameron Maldondo, the owner of MalTech Corporation, is asking for the unexpected. Enthralled by his commanding brilliance, she agrees to be his assistant, at his beck and call for whatever he needs--whenever and however he wants. What that means is for him to decide and for her to submit to. Frightened yet fascinated by what he promises, Abby becomes a willing captive to his caress, undone by his peerless touch, a quivering submission to an aching need for complete carnal surrender. . .
My Thoughts
When i took a peek on Goodreads, i saw that most people weren't overly thrilled with this book, and that made me a bit weary. the good thing is that i don't usually care much about what other people think of a book, and decided to read this one anyway. I think that i was pleasantly surprised with depth of the story that we got.
The summary gives you a sense that she would really just be Kam's assistant/sex slave and sub, but that's not really where things even get going to. While that's how their relationship begins, mind you Abby really would do anything to protect her brother, that's not where things evolve to because we learn that Kam really is much more human than the first few chapters lead us to believe.
This story takes us on a journey of these 2 trying to figure out what they mean to each other, all the while - Abby is trying to find out who really stole the 'things' that Kam and MalTech think that her brother took. While her brother claims innocence, and Abby believes him, his past is too tainted for anyone else to believe it, and if he didn't do it, there was a really good set up.
The other great thing is that this story takes a nice dark twist about 2/3 of the way through - what you don't expect to happen does, and that means that there's going to be someone on the run, and the folks that get called on things aren't the ones that were initially set up in the story.
I don't think that i've read anything by this author before, although there's plenty that i've discovered that i can now, and i have to say that we get a nice mix of bondage play and romance to make a story good. Without the fact that we know Kam is very into tying people up, he's still really sensual and knows how to make a scene steamy. I'm happy to say that i don't agree with most of the reviews that i read saying that this story wasn't good. maybe a bit predictable, but still good nonetheless.
April 12, 2014
DNF At 50%
*All quotes in blockquotes are taken from the ARC galley and are subjected to change*
This review isn't going to make sense. It's not going to flow smoothly or be polite. Why? Because Surrender made me angrier than I've been in a long time.
Of course, you know about Fifty Shades of Grey. Now take Christian Grey, make him ten times worse, and you have Surrender.
I'm not sure why I requested this, since I knew it was probably going to be bad. Maybe it was some twisted sense of wanting to be wrong?
I wasn't. At all. The only good thing that came out of reading this book was the fact that I am now even more convinced that I am always and will always be right.
Kameron, the "love interest", says things like,
Tell me that isn't creepy. I dare you.
Abby isn't better. Only a few pages later, she says things like,
and
Not the normal response that you might think she's thinking, such as, "Oh my god, he was going to kiss me. This is horrible. I should really run away. Maybe make sure to prevent his ability from making children? Yes."
But no. This was a, "Ohmygod, he was going to kiss me. I'm so excited!" sort of thing.
And my reaction was just:
Unless you have some sadistic desire to stick this book into your friend's pile, you're best bet to stay sane is to stay away from this book.
*All quotes in blockquotes are taken from the ARC galley and are subjected to change*
This review isn't going to make sense. It's not going to flow smoothly or be polite. Why? Because Surrender made me angrier than I've been in a long time.
Of course, you know about Fifty Shades of Grey. Now take Christian Grey, make him ten times worse, and you have Surrender.
I'm not sure why I requested this, since I knew it was probably going to be bad. Maybe it was some twisted sense of wanting to be wrong?
I wasn't. At all. The only good thing that came out of reading this book was the fact that I am now even more convinced that I am always and will always be right.
Kameron, the "love interest", says things like,
"It's a good game. A fund one. You'll like it. You'll see. Before you know it, I won't have to threaten you. You'll want to do what I ask."
Tell me that isn't creepy. I dare you.
Abby isn't better. Only a few pages later, she says things like,
"Ohmygod, he was going to kiss me."
and
I missed him. I missed him a lot."
Not the normal response that you might think she's thinking, such as, "Oh my god, he was going to kiss me. This is horrible. I should really run away. Maybe make sure to prevent his ability from making children? Yes."
But no. This was a, "Ohmygod, he was going to kiss me. I'm so excited!" sort of thing.
And my reaction was just:
Unless you have some sadistic desire to stick this book into your friend's pile, you're best bet to stay sane is to stay away from this book.
June 12, 2014
4.5 Sizzling Stars
Favorite Quotes:
“Time crawled slower than a sleeping turtle.”
“When we were… making love… all I could think about was having you, taking you.” Something flashing in his eyes. “Keeping you.”
My Review:
Hot. Steamy. Well written. Swoon – I am new to Tawny Taylor but will be watching for more of her work. This story gripped me from the beginning and maintained the heat and suspense throughout. The writing was evocative, sensual, and emotional. I had a hard time putting my kindle down when I needed to stop to eat, sleep, or answer my husband - after his 3rd attempt at getting my attention. The near ending was a bit out of sync for the characters, but the result was exactly what I was hoping for. Sigh, now I just need to find me a rich handsome man to work for.
Favorite Quotes:
“Time crawled slower than a sleeping turtle.”
“When we were… making love… all I could think about was having you, taking you.” Something flashing in his eyes. “Keeping you.”
My Review:
Hot. Steamy. Well written. Swoon – I am new to Tawny Taylor but will be watching for more of her work. This story gripped me from the beginning and maintained the heat and suspense throughout. The writing was evocative, sensual, and emotional. I had a hard time putting my kindle down when I needed to stop to eat, sleep, or answer my husband - after his 3rd attempt at getting my attention. The near ending was a bit out of sync for the characters, but the result was exactly what I was hoping for. Sigh, now I just need to find me a rich handsome man to work for.
May 31, 2014
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Aphrodisia!
Warning: This book is an erotica and contains explicit sex scenes. It features light BDSM and dubious consent. Be advised this review might also contain some explicit material.
On the whole this book was okay. It wasn’t great and it wasn’t terrible but it wasn’t the best erotica I’ve ever read. Honestly, on the sizzle scale it barely hit a simmer.
Read the rest of this review at Written Among the Stars
Warning: This book is an erotica and contains explicit sex scenes. It features light BDSM and dubious consent. Be advised this review might also contain some explicit material.
On the whole this book was okay. It wasn’t great and it wasn’t terrible but it wasn’t the best erotica I’ve ever read. Honestly, on the sizzle scale it barely hit a simmer.
Read the rest of this review at Written Among the Stars
April 11, 2014
I received this ARC from a publisher on Net Galley.
Both Abby and her brother Joss work at MalTech, living paycheck to paycheck until Joss is terminated for allegedly stealing from the company. In search of clearing her brother's name and keeping her own job, Abby takes a meeting with MalTech's CEO, Kameron Maldonado. Enthralled by Abby, Kameron promotes her to be his executive assistant and promises not to press charges against Joss under one steamy condition. As Abby and Kameron's relationship begins to evolve sexually and emotionally, they're tested by secrets, mysterious occurrences, and the theft allegations brought against her brother.
I enjoyed this story quite a bit. Abby and Kameron's connection definitely tugged at my heart strings. I liked Abby. She was endearing. A little naive but not so much that I found her annoying. Kameron's need to take care of her was what connected me to him. The characters In this story were well developed and well thought out.
Sometimes I found Kameron's voice surprisingly weak. There were times when he wasn't abrupt or powerful that I thought he was softening to Abby and I liked it but then there were moments when I found the weak voice unnecessary and uncharacteristic to whom his character seemed to be. In my head, his voice almost matched Abby's at times. Their dialogue seemed to match and I'd forget who was speaking.
The sex scenes were hot. I normally find myself bored after so many but I read and enjoyed them all. They weren't overly monotonous. There was a decent variety without being too extreme.
The plot was great, there were lots of twists that kept me on my toes. It was definitely a page turner. I think the story was well written. It could've been too complex for a romance but everything was still simple enough that none of the feeling and sexiness was lost amongst the mystery and chaos.
Both Abby and her brother Joss work at MalTech, living paycheck to paycheck until Joss is terminated for allegedly stealing from the company. In search of clearing her brother's name and keeping her own job, Abby takes a meeting with MalTech's CEO, Kameron Maldonado. Enthralled by Abby, Kameron promotes her to be his executive assistant and promises not to press charges against Joss under one steamy condition. As Abby and Kameron's relationship begins to evolve sexually and emotionally, they're tested by secrets, mysterious occurrences, and the theft allegations brought against her brother.
I enjoyed this story quite a bit. Abby and Kameron's connection definitely tugged at my heart strings. I liked Abby. She was endearing. A little naive but not so much that I found her annoying. Kameron's need to take care of her was what connected me to him. The characters In this story were well developed and well thought out.
Sometimes I found Kameron's voice surprisingly weak. There were times when he wasn't abrupt or powerful that I thought he was softening to Abby and I liked it but then there were moments when I found the weak voice unnecessary and uncharacteristic to whom his character seemed to be. In my head, his voice almost matched Abby's at times. Their dialogue seemed to match and I'd forget who was speaking.
The sex scenes were hot. I normally find myself bored after so many but I read and enjoyed them all. They weren't overly monotonous. There was a decent variety without being too extreme.
The plot was great, there were lots of twists that kept me on my toes. It was definitely a page turner. I think the story was well written. It could've been too complex for a romance but everything was still simple enough that none of the feeling and sexiness was lost amongst the mystery and chaos.
December 18, 2016
Just…no.
Abby Barnes will do anything to protect her little brother, even if it means she walks straight into the lions den and stretches her neck. When the owner of MalTech Corporation, Kameron Maldondo, offers Abby a promotion to be his assistant, the catch is that he can touch her "whenever, however, and wherever" he wants. And he does, in every way possible.
So let me get this straight. Girlfriend goes to the owner of the company to beg that he not turn her addict brother into the police for THEFT. Owner then starts making out and groping her, proposes she allow him "The liberty to touch you whenever, however, and wherever I want" and she's like, "oh, well this big daddy is super sexy, and I do need this job and lots of money….sooooooo." And this was all by page 10! By the end of chapter 2, he was drawing up a contract for her to be his submissive. Look, I've read 50 Shades and rate it up there with the worst of the worst. This book was an immediate regurgitation of what people found erotic about that one…blatantly so. By page 7, I was rolling my eyes. By 30, I was skimming quickly and by 70, I was ready to cry knowing my entire day would be wasted on this crap.
I received this as part of Risqué Reads new monthly subscription box, which arrived in a plain white box (read:no outward show of the dirrrrrty reads inside for your mailman to blush over). It was my first time I've received this, and it was super cute! The books were wrapped in sweet pink tissue paper, and there was an adorable little cupcake soap by Trascentuals (www.trascentuals.com) that smelled like vanilla and berries and love. The books weren't anything current (though 2014 isn't TOO bad), which was a little disappointing, however the choices themselves were erotic and written by well known erotic romance authors.
Abby Barnes will do anything to protect her little brother, even if it means she walks straight into the lions den and stretches her neck. When the owner of MalTech Corporation, Kameron Maldondo, offers Abby a promotion to be his assistant, the catch is that he can touch her "whenever, however, and wherever" he wants. And he does, in every way possible.
So let me get this straight. Girlfriend goes to the owner of the company to beg that he not turn her addict brother into the police for THEFT. Owner then starts making out and groping her, proposes she allow him "The liberty to touch you whenever, however, and wherever I want" and she's like, "oh, well this big daddy is super sexy, and I do need this job and lots of money….sooooooo." And this was all by page 10! By the end of chapter 2, he was drawing up a contract for her to be his submissive. Look, I've read 50 Shades and rate it up there with the worst of the worst. This book was an immediate regurgitation of what people found erotic about that one…blatantly so. By page 7, I was rolling my eyes. By 30, I was skimming quickly and by 70, I was ready to cry knowing my entire day would be wasted on this crap.
I received this as part of Risqué Reads new monthly subscription box, which arrived in a plain white box (read:no outward show of the dirrrrrty reads inside for your mailman to blush over). It was my first time I've received this, and it was super cute! The books were wrapped in sweet pink tissue paper, and there was an adorable little cupcake soap by Trascentuals (www.trascentuals.com) that smelled like vanilla and berries and love. The books weren't anything current (though 2014 isn't TOO bad), which was a little disappointing, however the choices themselves were erotic and written by well known erotic romance authors.
April 26, 2014
Night Owl Review
****4 1/2 starts****
Original Review Published here: http://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Rev...
Abby wants to keep her job and keep her brother out of prison. Therefore, she agrees to be Kameron Maldondo’s assistant and do whatever he wants whenever. The longer that Abby spends with Kameron the more she falls for him. However, she tries to protect her brother at all costs.
Kameron Maldondo is the owner of MalTech Corporation. He is too smart for his own good. The longer he has Abby around him the more he looks into her claims of her brother’s innocence. Kameron investigates to the point that he will do whatever is necessary to protect Abby.
The chemistry between Kameron and Abby is blistering. I loved that no matter what he trusted her claims that she had nothing to do with the stolen money. The sex scenes were scorching. They make a great pair, and it was easy to see right from the start that Kameron was trying to protect Abby.
Surrender by Tawny Taylor drops you in the middle of a story and I spent a good part of beginning trying to figure out who everyone was and what the problem was. I loved how realistic the story was. I can actually see this happening in real life. The main and secondary characters were interesting and engaging. Overall, this was one story that sticks with you long after you finish reading it.
*** The only problem I had with the story was how it ended. Without going into too much detail and giving away the ending, I was not fond that a conversation between Abby and her brother didn’t take place in the end. I needed to know why things went the way they did. ***
****4 1/2 starts****
Original Review Published here: http://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Rev...
Abby wants to keep her job and keep her brother out of prison. Therefore, she agrees to be Kameron Maldondo’s assistant and do whatever he wants whenever. The longer that Abby spends with Kameron the more she falls for him. However, she tries to protect her brother at all costs.
Kameron Maldondo is the owner of MalTech Corporation. He is too smart for his own good. The longer he has Abby around him the more he looks into her claims of her brother’s innocence. Kameron investigates to the point that he will do whatever is necessary to protect Abby.
The chemistry between Kameron and Abby is blistering. I loved that no matter what he trusted her claims that she had nothing to do with the stolen money. The sex scenes were scorching. They make a great pair, and it was easy to see right from the start that Kameron was trying to protect Abby.
Surrender by Tawny Taylor drops you in the middle of a story and I spent a good part of beginning trying to figure out who everyone was and what the problem was. I loved how realistic the story was. I can actually see this happening in real life. The main and secondary characters were interesting and engaging. Overall, this was one story that sticks with you long after you finish reading it.
*** The only problem I had with the story was how it ended. Without going into too much detail and giving away the ending, I was not fond that a conversation between Abby and her brother didn’t take place in the end. I needed to know why things went the way they did. ***
May 27, 2014
Abigail is a sweet self sacrificing individual. She's devoted her life to protecting her brother, trying to keep him out of trouble and bailing him out when he doesn't listen. Because of his most recent bout with trouble at work, Abigail is faced with a proposition to be personal assistant to Kameron Maldonado, the CEO and owner of MalTech Corporation. To avoid having charges against her brother she accepts the job and hopes that she can remain detached from the desire she instantly feels for Kameron.
Kameron saw Abigail and knew he had to come up with a way to have her near. Her brother's trouble gave him the perfect opportunity to feed his desires. Neither of them had an idea how this arrangement would affect them but they will never be the same.
I loved the chemistry between Kam and Abby. Their desire for each was instant and their connection undeniable. I could tell Kam tried hard to maintain this rough exterior facade but could see he was immediately open to Abby. Their intimate moments were very HOT and STEAMY from the start. The only BDSM aspect of this story is that Kam wants to maintain constant control as Dominant and wants Abby to be his sub. The suspenseful plot in this story was captivating. I couldn't put my eReader down as I was so involved in the story. There were plot twists to keep you going it was difficult to guess the "who done it" factor; which was a PLUS for me. I can usually tell you who the guilty party is from the beginning.
Tawny Taylor brings us a Sexy romance with a great storyline. I give this 4 stars on the Naughty scale.
Kameron saw Abigail and knew he had to come up with a way to have her near. Her brother's trouble gave him the perfect opportunity to feed his desires. Neither of them had an idea how this arrangement would affect them but they will never be the same.
I loved the chemistry between Kam and Abby. Their desire for each was instant and their connection undeniable. I could tell Kam tried hard to maintain this rough exterior facade but could see he was immediately open to Abby. Their intimate moments were very HOT and STEAMY from the start. The only BDSM aspect of this story is that Kam wants to maintain constant control as Dominant and wants Abby to be his sub. The suspenseful plot in this story was captivating. I couldn't put my eReader down as I was so involved in the story. There were plot twists to keep you going it was difficult to guess the "who done it" factor; which was a PLUS for me. I can usually tell you who the guilty party is from the beginning.
Tawny Taylor brings us a Sexy romance with a great storyline. I give this 4 stars on the Naughty scale.
July 9, 2014
¤I recieved this ARC in exchange for an honest review.¤
Ah, well? if 50 shades of Grey and Crossfire had a book-baby, this is what it would be like.
First of all, this book had some formatting issues, but I'm hoping that those will be corrected in the final version...
Surrender is part masturbatory/romance day-dream, part poorly written crime/suspense novel.
The author tried to portray two wounded souls, but they weren't all that beliveable. Still, it's okay to indulge in that whole insta-billionaire-love on occasion, I guess. Which mean I secretly enjoyed some of Abigail's "pampering";-)
Kam, however was a poorly written character: I have a hard time believing any man would go to the lengths he did to protect Abigail, just because he lusted after her. (This was a man willing to blackmail her, after all!) Even worse: You know, for once I'd love to read about a bdsm loving billionaire who doesn't have "issues" - it's not a mental disease, you know.
And the villain: Could have worked, but reallly didn't. Said person was just a cardboard character, really. Overall, not a book I regret having read, but ultimately; very forgettable.
2.5 ★
Ah, well? if 50 shades of Grey and Crossfire had a book-baby, this is what it would be like.
First of all, this book had some formatting issues, but I'm hoping that those will be corrected in the final version...
Surrender is part masturbatory/romance day-dream, part poorly written crime/suspense novel.
The author tried to portray two wounded souls, but they weren't all that beliveable. Still, it's okay to indulge in that whole insta-billionaire-love on occasion, I guess. Which mean I secretly enjoyed some of Abigail's "pampering";-)
Kam, however was a poorly written character: I have a hard time believing any man would go to the lengths he did to protect Abigail, just because he lusted after her. (This was a man willing to blackmail her, after all!) Even worse: You know, for once I'd love to read about a bdsm loving billionaire who doesn't have "issues" - it's not a mental disease, you know.
And the villain: Could have worked, but reallly didn't. Said person was just a cardboard character, really. Overall, not a book I regret having read, but ultimately; very forgettable.
2.5 ★
May 1, 2014
I received an ARC from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Surrender has a little bit of everything, it is a light-BDSM themed suspenseful erotic romance. Abby agrees to do anything for her employer, Kameron, in order to save her brother from jail for a crime he allegedly committed. Of course that anything ends up with some really hot scenes!
To be honest, for me, this book received a four star rating because of the beginning. The setup between the characters happened so fast, I didn't believe the chemistry between Abby and Kam at first. The relationship between them seemed forced and lacking, other than the actual sexual acts, which were scorching hot.
The last half was the redeeming grace of the book. I loved the twists and turns, many were shocking, and I kept changing my mind about how it was going to end. I also felt the relationship between Abby and Kam was more believable toward the end, and I was rooting for them to work.
All in all, I'd recommend this book if you enjoy more than one genre in a book, because it certainly mashed a few together. It was an intriguing and interesting read that took off towards the end.
Surrender has a little bit of everything, it is a light-BDSM themed suspenseful erotic romance. Abby agrees to do anything for her employer, Kameron, in order to save her brother from jail for a crime he allegedly committed. Of course that anything ends up with some really hot scenes!
To be honest, for me, this book received a four star rating because of the beginning. The setup between the characters happened so fast, I didn't believe the chemistry between Abby and Kam at first. The relationship between them seemed forced and lacking, other than the actual sexual acts, which were scorching hot.
The last half was the redeeming grace of the book. I loved the twists and turns, many were shocking, and I kept changing my mind about how it was going to end. I also felt the relationship between Abby and Kam was more believable toward the end, and I was rooting for them to work.
All in all, I'd recommend this book if you enjoy more than one genre in a book, because it certainly mashed a few together. It was an intriguing and interesting read that took off towards the end.
July 31, 2015
This book was okay, it didn't keep me on the edge of my seat or want to not put it down. Abigail is being played by one person who she's always protected & also by a new person in her life. At first she takes on her new job to keep her brother out of jail but after a few weeks with her new boss & his dominance she realizes that it's not all about her brother any more. Kameron is the owner & ceo of a major company & has seen Abby in the halls & wondered who she was until the day she shows up begging to do anything to keep her job & keep her brother out of jail after supposedly stealing something from work & selling it. Believing her brother innocent Abby agrees to Kam's demands & finds herself in a new position not only at work but in her personal life as well. When things change for the worse Abby & Kam are forced to run & Kam's true feelings come to light. The only surprise in the book was who was actually involved in the theft. But in the end I did enjoy the book & think that it might be something my friends might like to read.
June 26, 2014
I laughed cried and was so hottt by this book this book has so many twist and turns when you think what's going to happen nope you are wrong it throws you off balance I and I loved every minute of it. Kam is sexy as a god boss who is about to fire and call the cops on Joss that's Abigail brother who she protects with every fiber of her being. The chemistry between these so is so freaking hot he wants her so much he blackmails her where he can do what he wants with her anytime and where to protect her brother. So he makes her his assistance her office is in a room in his office where she is where he wants her. The things these two go through is crazy and because of that it's so freaking good. A MUST READ if you want hott seems and a roller coaster this is your book. LOVED IT I can't say it enough. I wish there was a chapter where it tells you what happens after the ending but that's minor the book isn't any less good because it doesn't have it no it's still good as hell.
May 18, 2014
Abby's brother is always getting into trouble and she is constantly bailing him out of it. This time isn't any different. Well...it actually is pretty different with Kam involved. Abby and her brother work for Kam. Joss has stolen from the company and she wants to keep him from going to jail so she meets with Kam. Hot Dom...I mean Mr Bossy Pants...I mean Kam decides that she can work as his assistant and play as his submissive in exchange for not calling the cops. The kicker is that Joss doesn't have the sticky fingers that everyone thinks he does which means Abby and Kam have to sleuth out who is actually stealing from the company and try not to get killed in the process. Oh yeah...and have some seriously scorching hot tie me up lover moments in the midst of all that.
I give Surrender 4 hearts!
I give Surrender 4 hearts!
August 7, 2014
NOW THAT IS WHAT I AM TALKING ABOUT!! I think I found a new favorite author. This was an emotional roller coaster. The emotion and who dunnit was a nice change for me. I would think I figured it out...then Nada!! The writing was very good and kept you engaged the whole read. The build up and description of each scene was insanely good!! It was crazy good and have decided that this will not be my last read from this author. The characters were strong. Only one small issue for me. I would have liked to have some internal dialog from Mr. Maldonado. My only complaint. Just would have liked to know what he was thinking!! Can you blame me???
I received this ARC from the author via Net Galley for my honest review. Thank You, Net Galley!
I received this ARC from the author via Net Galley for my honest review. Thank You, Net Galley!
April 16, 2014
**Received and ARC for this review from Net Galley.**
I enjoyed this read. The suspense was good and there was a twist I didn't see coming. I wished the characters had been a little better developed but it didn't stop the story from being enjoyable.
I enjoyed Abigail, her battle to save her brother and sacrifice herself without being a total martyr was good. She did stand up for herself and didn't wander around and "woe is me" herself.
Kameron is your typical Alpha. I wish I was able to find out more about him but I did like his character in the end.
This is the first time I've read anything by this author and I think there's good potential there. All in all 3.5/4 stars for me.
I enjoyed this read. The suspense was good and there was a twist I didn't see coming. I wished the characters had been a little better developed but it didn't stop the story from being enjoyable.
I enjoyed Abigail, her battle to save her brother and sacrifice herself without being a total martyr was good. She did stand up for herself and didn't wander around and "woe is me" herself.
Kameron is your typical Alpha. I wish I was able to find out more about him but I did like his character in the end.
This is the first time I've read anything by this author and I think there's good potential there. All in all 3.5/4 stars for me.
August 21, 2014
So this book was a surprise! I was expecting the boss/employee forbidden romance that started as an agreement to keep Joss from going to jail....this book was so much more then that. There were so many different turns this book took, between Kam and Abigail, then with Joss and the mystery of who was stealing from the company. I was sucked into this book right away. I couldn't put it down. This was the first book I have read from this author but will be looking to read others.
Received this book from NetGalley for honest review.
Received this book from NetGalley for honest review.
April 16, 2014
I think my main issue with this book is that the book was trying to feature a BDSM romance, then just a romance, then lets throw a mystery in and then back to BDSM. There were just too many plots going on to ever really focus on. Don't get me wrong I love a good romantic suspense novel but this just wasn't it. I thought from the cover blurb that it would be a good read but it just didn't work for me. I won't say I hated it but I'm not really sure why I finished it other than to find out who was the culprit.
June 5, 2018
This starts off putting Kameron in a really bad light as he blackmails her into becoming his assistant whom he can touch anywhere, any when he likes in order to keep her brother out of jail. He definitely becomes more likeable and the sparks between these two are hot. I still felt some disjointedness in the story. Some actions didn't make sense and reactions to actions caused me to paus and reread or go back to try and figure it out... without any luck. So mixeds reviews.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2018
Not a bad read. It has some slow moments in the book.
February 27, 2021
DNF at about 50%. It's sooooooo booooooorrrrrrrring...
September 8, 2016
Reviewed for Evie at www.Evie-Knight.com
Review copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley
This is a crazy book! In some ways, I totally loved it - the Sexy Time was super hot and plentiful. But there were more than a couple of times that I hated it and the characters and what was going on. I'm going to have to figure this out so read on if you'd like to come with me while I do that.
Let's start easy... the heroine, Abby. She was so-so. I didn't love her but I didn't always hate her. Abby has a former addict for a brother. He's trying to get his life back in order but he still screws up and Abby has to take care of him. That's what's happening when the book starts. Her brother has been fired from the place they both work under suspicion of having stolen something. I love how loyal Abby is to her brother. Even when he doesn't really deserve it. But that's also one of the things that I hated about her. She just keeps going back, over and over again, trying to help him out. It was like she never learned her lesson. I guess you're not supposed to give up on family but I felt that here, it was a little too overboard. Throughout the rest of the book, she had a few Too Stupid To Live moments but it wasn't constant. She was certainly flawed, which I don't mind but there was just too much to not like about her for me to really connect with and root for her.
The hero, Kam, was pretty good. He starts of the book as something of a creepy, pervy guy. I mean, he's Abby's boss and he essentially forces her to start working as his personal assistant because if she doesn't, he's going to go to the police to file charges about the theft. Guh-ross! But the thing is, I never really hated him for that! I got pissed when Abby would waffle back and forth in her mind about how awful he was for making her do this and not caring since he was so hot and all. But I never held it against him! I have no idea why. Also, I think he was supposed to be a Dom but he only shows it every once in a while. In most BDSM-type books, you get a sense that a Dom is a Dom because it manifests itself outside of the bedroom, as well as inside. Sure, Kam is a powerful, rich, successful business man and he got that way because he has those Dom characteristics but its never really highlighted. I guess I just felt a teensy bit confused because I expected him to be a Dom all the time, not just in the bedroom a couple of times.
This IS an erotic romance so there is plenty of Sexy Time. And wow, this author has a way with words! Yikes, it was super hot and I loved it! Kam and Abby were great together and it was nice to have them together when things are going well for them. It felt like maybe this was described as if this was going to be a BDSM heavy novel but it definitely was not. I think it had light BDSM with a little tying up but nothing too crazy. My main complaint with Surrender was that there was SO much going on in this book. There was, of course, the romance. There was the issue of the theft and if Abby's brother did it or not. Then, when we find out that he didn't, it became a mystery to figure out who did it. There was a bit of action thrown in when Kam and Abby were on the run (including disguises...I'm serious). Then there was the mystery of who was drugging them (really? two different people being drugged, in the same book?). Lastly, we slowly find out about Abby's childhood. It sounded awful because her dad was an awful drunk but then there were times when she talked about her dad and she didn't sound like she hated him. It was a whole lot of story and some of it didn't match up for me.
I think I would recommend this to readers who would like to dip their toe into the BDSM water, since it wasn't too crazy or heavy. It helps that Abby is conflicted about her feelings on being dominated because I think that might echo the feelings of some readers. I definitely think this is a well written book but I just didn't fall head-over-heels in love with the characters. This isn't my favorite book but I'll definitely be checking out some of her other titles!
Review copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley
This is a crazy book! In some ways, I totally loved it - the Sexy Time was super hot and plentiful. But there were more than a couple of times that I hated it and the characters and what was going on. I'm going to have to figure this out so read on if you'd like to come with me while I do that.
Let's start easy... the heroine, Abby. She was so-so. I didn't love her but I didn't always hate her. Abby has a former addict for a brother. He's trying to get his life back in order but he still screws up and Abby has to take care of him. That's what's happening when the book starts. Her brother has been fired from the place they both work under suspicion of having stolen something. I love how loyal Abby is to her brother. Even when he doesn't really deserve it. But that's also one of the things that I hated about her. She just keeps going back, over and over again, trying to help him out. It was like she never learned her lesson. I guess you're not supposed to give up on family but I felt that here, it was a little too overboard. Throughout the rest of the book, she had a few Too Stupid To Live moments but it wasn't constant. She was certainly flawed, which I don't mind but there was just too much to not like about her for me to really connect with and root for her.
The hero, Kam, was pretty good. He starts of the book as something of a creepy, pervy guy. I mean, he's Abby's boss and he essentially forces her to start working as his personal assistant because if she doesn't, he's going to go to the police to file charges about the theft. Guh-ross! But the thing is, I never really hated him for that! I got pissed when Abby would waffle back and forth in her mind about how awful he was for making her do this and not caring since he was so hot and all. But I never held it against him! I have no idea why. Also, I think he was supposed to be a Dom but he only shows it every once in a while. In most BDSM-type books, you get a sense that a Dom is a Dom because it manifests itself outside of the bedroom, as well as inside. Sure, Kam is a powerful, rich, successful business man and he got that way because he has those Dom characteristics but its never really highlighted. I guess I just felt a teensy bit confused because I expected him to be a Dom all the time, not just in the bedroom a couple of times.
This IS an erotic romance so there is plenty of Sexy Time. And wow, this author has a way with words! Yikes, it was super hot and I loved it! Kam and Abby were great together and it was nice to have them together when things are going well for them. It felt like maybe this was described as if this was going to be a BDSM heavy novel but it definitely was not. I think it had light BDSM with a little tying up but nothing too crazy. My main complaint with Surrender was that there was SO much going on in this book. There was, of course, the romance. There was the issue of the theft and if Abby's brother did it or not. Then, when we find out that he didn't, it became a mystery to figure out who did it. There was a bit of action thrown in when Kam and Abby were on the run (including disguises...I'm serious). Then there was the mystery of who was drugging them (really? two different people being drugged, in the same book?). Lastly, we slowly find out about Abby's childhood. It sounded awful because her dad was an awful drunk but then there were times when she talked about her dad and she didn't sound like she hated him. It was a whole lot of story and some of it didn't match up for me.
I think I would recommend this to readers who would like to dip their toe into the BDSM water, since it wasn't too crazy or heavy. It helps that Abby is conflicted about her feelings on being dominated because I think that might echo the feelings of some readers. I definitely think this is a well written book but I just didn't fall head-over-heels in love with the characters. This isn't my favorite book but I'll definitely be checking out some of her other titles!
October 29, 2014
Almost is the word that comes to mind when I think of Surrender by Tawny Taylor. I was initially turned off by the initial interactions of Abigail Barnes, an employee of MalTech owned by none other than Kameron Madonado. In an attempt to spare her brother, Abigail schedules a meeting with Kameron to plead for her brother's freedom after he has been accused of stealing something from the MalTech Corporation. In her valiant effort Abigail, or Abby, finds herself in a VERY compromising position and accepts an offer to work directly "under" Kameron as his personal assistant. Kameron is playing all kinds of offending Title IX games with her mind and her body and at this point Abby just appears weak and plain ole every day stupid.
At this point of the book, I politely sat my reader down, and had to really think about how I should proceed. I mean I had other books to read and I was definitely overworked. However, the book fairies were in this novel's favor, so I pressed on and was pleasantly surprised by the turn of events that transformed Kameron from a douche bag to "Mr. How you doin'". And as Kameron's character shifted so did Abby's, making her a willing participant in her own life who actually demonstrated that she had and started utilizing her common sense.
From this point in the story, I was reading and loving every word as the story took on a completely new direction. The plot really did thicken and a suspenseful story began to unfold that involved blackmail, revenge, espionage, and failed attempts at brainwashing. When I say this part of the story was good, I mean it was REALLY good and then it happened. Another shift occurs and disappointed cannot even express how I felt. The storyline dropped me from the highest peak of the Appalachian Mountain chain to a random street corner in New Orleans. It was almost as if there was an afterthought of erotica and a random BDSM scene was tacked on to the end of the story with a playroom and everything.
I digress. Surrender was definitely not a bad read. It was almost an incredible novel. I mean there was steaminess between Kameron and Abby. These two definitely had some chemistry, once the coercion stopped on Kameron's part. The storyline was definitely interesting in a way that you rarely see a leading Alpha man. And he definitely experience some of the things in this story that I hadn't read until now. However, I could have managed with a different beginning and a very different ending. Nevertheless, if you can manage to make it past the first three chapters, I would recommend that you jog on over and read Surrender, by Tawny Taylor.
A complimentary copy was given on behalf of Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews, please visit my blog at www.runandreadthat.com. Also, follow me on twitter @runandreadthat
At this point of the book, I politely sat my reader down, and had to really think about how I should proceed. I mean I had other books to read and I was definitely overworked. However, the book fairies were in this novel's favor, so I pressed on and was pleasantly surprised by the turn of events that transformed Kameron from a douche bag to "Mr. How you doin'". And as Kameron's character shifted so did Abby's, making her a willing participant in her own life who actually demonstrated that she had and started utilizing her common sense.
From this point in the story, I was reading and loving every word as the story took on a completely new direction. The plot really did thicken and a suspenseful story began to unfold that involved blackmail, revenge, espionage, and failed attempts at brainwashing. When I say this part of the story was good, I mean it was REALLY good and then it happened. Another shift occurs and disappointed cannot even express how I felt. The storyline dropped me from the highest peak of the Appalachian Mountain chain to a random street corner in New Orleans. It was almost as if there was an afterthought of erotica and a random BDSM scene was tacked on to the end of the story with a playroom and everything.
I digress. Surrender was definitely not a bad read. It was almost an incredible novel. I mean there was steaminess between Kameron and Abby. These two definitely had some chemistry, once the coercion stopped on Kameron's part. The storyline was definitely interesting in a way that you rarely see a leading Alpha man. And he definitely experience some of the things in this story that I hadn't read until now. However, I could have managed with a different beginning and a very different ending. Nevertheless, if you can manage to make it past the first three chapters, I would recommend that you jog on over and read Surrender, by Tawny Taylor.
A complimentary copy was given on behalf of Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews, please visit my blog at www.runandreadthat.com. Also, follow me on twitter @runandreadthat
July 23, 2016
ARC by NetGalley
BDSM, contemporary, erotic romance, romantic mystery
Summary
"Surrender" portraits the story of Abby, a girl that has never had an easy life. Her brother, once again, was involved in a messy situation and she had to go rescue him. To save her brother, Abby made a pact-with-the-devil sort of deal with her boss. While Abby and Kameron, her boss, enters a journey of self-discovery, several secrets starts to surface and soon they are not sure anymore whom to trust and whom to surrender. Will there be a future for them? Or they were doom from the beginning?
cover
I would have stop by this book in a bookstore. Looking at it, I would have guessed this woman was a submissive.
I think this is a nice cover, with hidden meaning. It's classy!
Overall impressions
This was a slow-paced read for me. It had too many sub-plots, that ended up confusing the main plot a bit.
The story had several twists and it did keep me guessing.
I like the way the BDSM was introduce at the beginning of the book, I just wished it had became the main focus of the story.
The book presented a good flow of intensity level, and the climax of the story at the end was interesting.
The characters were a bit murky for me. The female had a few too many TSTL moments and the male were a not-so-sure Dom, which is not my favorite kind of Dominant.
Because of that I was unnable to connect with them, even though I sort of understood them at the end.
The heat originated in this book was really good. Even though the scenes were not particularly original, its description was spot-on, which generated the perfect amount of heat in the book.
The originality of the story was good, but it suffered form the lack of focus of the plot.
Opinion
This book is a bit different than most BDSM stories, because it brought along a big mistery to be solved, while the couple tried a new BDSM-relationship.
Part of the life situations presented were very believable, but some were in shaky ground.
The book mystery gripped me from time to time and made me want to keep reading, but I finish the book wishing for more of the naughty-office-scenes.
I think this book is an ok read for a light-BDSM readers.
Rating
cover: 4 stars
characters: 3 stars
plot: 2 stars
heat: 5 stars
freshness: 3 stars
My overall ratings: 3 star
BDSM, contemporary, erotic romance, romantic mystery
Summary
"Surrender" portraits the story of Abby, a girl that has never had an easy life. Her brother, once again, was involved in a messy situation and she had to go rescue him. To save her brother, Abby made a pact-with-the-devil sort of deal with her boss. While Abby and Kameron, her boss, enters a journey of self-discovery, several secrets starts to surface and soon they are not sure anymore whom to trust and whom to surrender. Will there be a future for them? Or they were doom from the beginning?
cover
I would have stop by this book in a bookstore. Looking at it, I would have guessed this woman was a submissive.
I think this is a nice cover, with hidden meaning. It's classy!
Overall impressions
This was a slow-paced read for me. It had too many sub-plots, that ended up confusing the main plot a bit.
The story had several twists and it did keep me guessing.
I like the way the BDSM was introduce at the beginning of the book, I just wished it had became the main focus of the story.
The book presented a good flow of intensity level, and the climax of the story at the end was interesting.
The characters were a bit murky for me. The female had a few too many TSTL moments and the male were a not-so-sure Dom, which is not my favorite kind of Dominant.
Because of that I was unnable to connect with them, even though I sort of understood them at the end.
The heat originated in this book was really good. Even though the scenes were not particularly original, its description was spot-on, which generated the perfect amount of heat in the book.
The originality of the story was good, but it suffered form the lack of focus of the plot.
Opinion
This book is a bit different than most BDSM stories, because it brought along a big mistery to be solved, while the couple tried a new BDSM-relationship.
Part of the life situations presented were very believable, but some were in shaky ground.
The book mystery gripped me from time to time and made me want to keep reading, but I finish the book wishing for more of the naughty-office-scenes.
I think this book is an ok read for a light-BDSM readers.
Rating
cover: 4 stars
characters: 3 stars
plot: 2 stars
heat: 5 stars
freshness: 3 stars
My overall ratings: 3 star
May 31, 2014
Surrender, Tawny Taylor.
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
I really liked the sound of this, sexy and a bit of BDSM....but sadly in practice it was one of those that just didn't work at all for me and I ended up skim reading just to finish.
What was the problem? Well, first off Abby. She was such a doormat, a wimp and I just couldn't take to her. There she was having all these inner reservations, and yet she didn't say a thing. Not One Thing...just let everything happen. Then the boss, Kam, he was simply just weird. Hot, then cold, then hot again, and all for no reason. I'll believe in insta lust, but I have to feel a real sensual attraction and that both have a bit of depth to them to go for insta love but here...well Abby just seemed to lay eyes on the guy and roll over. Thinks “oh no! You can't do that” - Acts: opens legs....
Then there was the plot(s) – they just didn't make sense. We learn that Abby and Kam need to find out who the person who's filed on her brothers phone is; all they have is the letter T, so they go through employee files etc, and then when the person is revealed the name begins with an S? So what was all that T stuff for? Pointless unless I’m missing something obvious. Then there's the involvement ( or more to the point the non involvement) of the police, frankly that was so far fetched as to be off the wall. One moment Abby is on the news as wanted in connection with a serious crime, then someone else is taken in and she's free, never had to answer a question, never even saw a policeman. As she was supposed to be complicit, they'd want to speak to her if only to rule her out . Then the multi billionaire Kam doesn't have a PI contact? Or even know anyone who can recommend one....please. It was all just too far fetched for me, I know its fiction, but even that if its posing as reality needs to have a base in real life. Sadly the hot sex, and there was lots- though the BDSM link was very, very tenuous and barely credible, didn't make up for the rest :( I'm sure Tawny worked hard, I'm sure some readers will love it, but for me its the one I’m happy to let get away :-(
Stars: sorry, I hate doing this but it's just a two. I really didn't enjoy it.
ARC supplied via netgalley
Review from jeannie zelos book reviews
I really liked the sound of this, sexy and a bit of BDSM....but sadly in practice it was one of those that just didn't work at all for me and I ended up skim reading just to finish.
What was the problem? Well, first off Abby. She was such a doormat, a wimp and I just couldn't take to her. There she was having all these inner reservations, and yet she didn't say a thing. Not One Thing...just let everything happen. Then the boss, Kam, he was simply just weird. Hot, then cold, then hot again, and all for no reason. I'll believe in insta lust, but I have to feel a real sensual attraction and that both have a bit of depth to them to go for insta love but here...well Abby just seemed to lay eyes on the guy and roll over. Thinks “oh no! You can't do that” - Acts: opens legs....
Then there was the plot(s) – they just didn't make sense. We learn that Abby and Kam need to find out who the person who's filed on her brothers phone is; all they have is the letter T, so they go through employee files etc, and then when the person is revealed the name begins with an S? So what was all that T stuff for? Pointless unless I’m missing something obvious. Then there's the involvement ( or more to the point the non involvement) of the police, frankly that was so far fetched as to be off the wall. One moment Abby is on the news as wanted in connection with a serious crime, then someone else is taken in and she's free, never had to answer a question, never even saw a policeman. As she was supposed to be complicit, they'd want to speak to her if only to rule her out . Then the multi billionaire Kam doesn't have a PI contact? Or even know anyone who can recommend one....please. It was all just too far fetched for me, I know its fiction, but even that if its posing as reality needs to have a base in real life. Sadly the hot sex, and there was lots- though the BDSM link was very, very tenuous and barely credible, didn't make up for the rest :( I'm sure Tawny worked hard, I'm sure some readers will love it, but for me its the one I’m happy to let get away :-(
Stars: sorry, I hate doing this but it's just a two. I really didn't enjoy it.
ARC supplied via netgalley
July 7, 2014
I received a copy in exchange for a honest review.
What I Liked:
Element of Suspense - I was not expecting this at all. I thought Surrender was just going to be a sexual book with very little substance. I was surprisingly mistaken. I really enjoyed the mystery behind the theft. However, I wish it was fleshed out more. Its almost as if Abby figured out who the bad guy was in her mind and rarely clued us in.
Characters - I loved Abby and Kameron. I thought Abby was a strong female character that was willing to take care of her family. I wished she had cut her brother off years ago. It should have been obvious to her that he would never change and he'd eventually take her down with him. As for Kameron, I liked his transition, although I didn't like how hot/cold he ran with Abby. He should have been able to trust her. It felt as if he was ignoring the fact that she was drugged just like he was.
Sizzle Factor - Love! The chemistry between Abby and Kameron was off the charts. I liked the light BDSM between the couple. I loved the scenes where Kameron pushes Abby to test her limits. The scenes where Kameron is unable to control his emotions were the best. Yum!
What I Didn't Like:
Dialogue - I had a difficult time with some of the dialogue. There were some dialogue between different characters that felt like it had no emotion behind the words. And I'm sorry, but Abby's constant "ohmygod" got very repetitive.
Villain - There was really no clues leading to who the villain was. I felt it could have been much more effective if there were little clues along the way to pointed towards this particular character. And how/why did they work together?
Overall, I enjoyed the book enough that it sucked me in and I couldn't put it down. Could it have been better? Yeah. I felt that if there was more focus on the suspense, it might have been better. As far as the sexual theme of the book, I loved it. Will it be my last book from the author? No, I'm looking forward to trying another one of Tawny's books.
What I Liked:
Element of Suspense - I was not expecting this at all. I thought Surrender was just going to be a sexual book with very little substance. I was surprisingly mistaken. I really enjoyed the mystery behind the theft. However, I wish it was fleshed out more. Its almost as if Abby figured out who the bad guy was in her mind and rarely clued us in.
Characters - I loved Abby and Kameron. I thought Abby was a strong female character that was willing to take care of her family. I wished she had cut her brother off years ago. It should have been obvious to her that he would never change and he'd eventually take her down with him. As for Kameron, I liked his transition, although I didn't like how hot/cold he ran with Abby. He should have been able to trust her. It felt as if he was ignoring the fact that she was drugged just like he was.
Sizzle Factor - Love! The chemistry between Abby and Kameron was off the charts. I liked the light BDSM between the couple. I loved the scenes where Kameron pushes Abby to test her limits. The scenes where Kameron is unable to control his emotions were the best. Yum!
What I Didn't Like:
Dialogue - I had a difficult time with some of the dialogue. There were some dialogue between different characters that felt like it had no emotion behind the words. And I'm sorry, but Abby's constant "ohmygod" got very repetitive.
Villain - There was really no clues leading to who the villain was. I felt it could have been much more effective if there were little clues along the way to pointed towards this particular character. And how/why did they work together?
Overall, I enjoyed the book enough that it sucked me in and I couldn't put it down. Could it have been better? Yeah. I felt that if there was more focus on the suspense, it might have been better. As far as the sexual theme of the book, I loved it. Will it be my last book from the author? No, I'm looking forward to trying another one of Tawny's books.
June 1, 2014
Lily‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
3 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
Abigail Barnes meets the owner of Maltech to plead her brother Joss’ case. Abigail is a survivor and since their father’s death, she’s taken care of her younger brother Joss. But this time, Joss has not only jeopardized his own job at Maltech, but hers as well. As Abby meets with Kameron Maldonado, CEO, she realizes there’s nothing she can do to save her brother’s job. She gets up to leave and stumbles. When Kameron grabs her, electricity sparks. Kameron persuades her to stay on as his assistant; a move up from her position in another department. Thus begins as series of twists and turns that kept me guessing where Kameron and Abby were headed.
While I was initially drawn to the story, I found myself questioning the budding relationship between Kameron and Abby. Then I felt the author rushed to build on the instant attraction between Kam and Abby and threw in some side stories about Joss and others to distract you from who really dunnit.
About halfway through the book, I wasn’t sure if Kam was really the Dom to her Submissive, or if he, or someone else was setting her up to cover up other events. Or, was Kam just a rich billionaire with a dark past who didn’t like to be touched? As I reviewed my notes, I wasn’t sure if I ever really liked Kam throughout the story. In spite of my lack of warm, fuzzy feelings for Kam, I still couldn’t put the book down. I wanted to find out who ultimately screwed whom.
Overall, this was a quick and enjoyable read with a HEA where good conquers evil. I only wished for some deeper character development for Kam and Abby. I would have liked more details from their back stories; why there were so broken and how they each dealt with their issues. This would have helped build a better foundation for the rest of their story.
3 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
Abigail Barnes meets the owner of Maltech to plead her brother Joss’ case. Abigail is a survivor and since their father’s death, she’s taken care of her younger brother Joss. But this time, Joss has not only jeopardized his own job at Maltech, but hers as well. As Abby meets with Kameron Maldonado, CEO, she realizes there’s nothing she can do to save her brother’s job. She gets up to leave and stumbles. When Kameron grabs her, electricity sparks. Kameron persuades her to stay on as his assistant; a move up from her position in another department. Thus begins as series of twists and turns that kept me guessing where Kameron and Abby were headed.
While I was initially drawn to the story, I found myself questioning the budding relationship between Kameron and Abby. Then I felt the author rushed to build on the instant attraction between Kam and Abby and threw in some side stories about Joss and others to distract you from who really dunnit.
About halfway through the book, I wasn’t sure if Kam was really the Dom to her Submissive, or if he, or someone else was setting her up to cover up other events. Or, was Kam just a rich billionaire with a dark past who didn’t like to be touched? As I reviewed my notes, I wasn’t sure if I ever really liked Kam throughout the story. In spite of my lack of warm, fuzzy feelings for Kam, I still couldn’t put the book down. I wanted to find out who ultimately screwed whom.
Overall, this was a quick and enjoyable read with a HEA where good conquers evil. I only wished for some deeper character development for Kam and Abby. I would have liked more details from their back stories; why there were so broken and how they each dealt with their issues. This would have helped build a better foundation for the rest of their story.
April 18, 2014
***I received this ARC from the publisher on Net Gallery***. This story did not work! First of all, there was no introduction to what was to come or even any foreplay or prior interest before they met and then two strangers kiss?!?!? Kam and Abigail's first meeting did not set any scene or connection for me. There is no backdrop for the story. Throughout the book, the plot and interactions did not make sense or flow. One sex scene used something to tie but no mention of being untied and another scene later where she was being untied but no mention that she was even tied? First sex scene no protection was used since Abigail had birth control in place then later a scene using protection? Why the protection? They would have already transmitted something from not using the condom all those times prior. Relationships between Abigail and her belief and trust for her brother, Joss, to change but did not give any indication why. When Kam and Abigail reviewed each other past, It was so abrupt when there were no mentioning or hints of their deep demons. One thing I give the author is her sex scenes were written well if she did not have the errors that did not make sense in the scene and if she had set up the relationships and the plot. The conclusion was written horribly. Just all of a sudden feeling of "ok the end!" The ending of the book did not wrapped up well. I was extremely close to not finishing this story. Was not even sure how to review something that was so disjointed and disorganized. I am giving the one star for the sex scenes that was written well (she did a good job with the description in the scene) with the exception of the misplaced errors. I have seen this author has been around and her books have been publishing for sometime so I cannot understand why. This book did not work and very difficult and a huge struggle for me to finish.
April 18, 2014
Surrender
Tawny Taylor
This story was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review.
Poor Abigail Barnes, her brother is in trouble yet again. It is up to her to bail him out, yet again. But I think this time the price she has to pay may prove more than she is thinking.
Kameron Maldonado is the owner of Maltech, the company at which both Abigail and her brother Joss are employed at when Joss is accussed of unsavoury actions and threatened with arrest.
Abby has a meeting with Kam to plead for Joss. She is willing to do whatever it takes to help her brother. Kam agrees, his demands are simple really.
"I'll only ask you to allow me the liberty to touch you whenever, however, and wherever I want."
He ties her to the office chair and some really hot scenes follow. He seems to be always tying her up and Abby is loving it.
Unfortunately then things go down hill, he gets a conscience and regrets his dominating ways and pushes her away. The general theme of the story changes from Erotica to Mystery/Crime Drama at this point as the two of them race to figure out what and who is behind the espionage at his company.
I think the reader did a great job of creating a thriller story. Unfortunately I don't really like the page turning suspense kind of book. It was hard to me to finish. The characters were greatly fleshed out and the ending was very surprising with many twists along the way. I would rate this story a 3/5. It was well written, just did not appeal to me.
May 4, 2014
Review featured on www.books-n-kisses.cmo
2.75 Hearts This book was just ok for me. I have more complaints with it than I do praise but the story had an underlying interesting story so I am letting the stars fall mostly in the middle.
First the good. The story like I said is a bit interesting and even though I was pretty sure I had the who-dun-it figured out I wasn’t sure (I was right by the way) but knowing I was sure kept me interested. Abby is kind of interesting too even though I would never say she is one of my favorite heroines. She does what she believes is right and stands by it which I can appreciate. Kam is just ok and falls more in the complaint side.
Now the bad. There is not much in the erotica side to this story and what is sexual is the same over and over and not something that is every other erotic novel out there. There was nothing interesting about it. Kam is so far from a Dom that it is laughable. He wouldn’t know what to do with half the items in the dungeon he has. I think the author fell into “a kiss is more intimate than anything else sexually” idea because if I had read the word kiss one more time I might have screamed.
Maybe if this story had been categorized as romantic suspense it would have been better but as it says it is erotica and the synopsis makes you think that this book comes up lacking.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
2.75 Hearts This book was just ok for me. I have more complaints with it than I do praise but the story had an underlying interesting story so I am letting the stars fall mostly in the middle.
First the good. The story like I said is a bit interesting and even though I was pretty sure I had the who-dun-it figured out I wasn’t sure (I was right by the way) but knowing I was sure kept me interested. Abby is kind of interesting too even though I would never say she is one of my favorite heroines. She does what she believes is right and stands by it which I can appreciate. Kam is just ok and falls more in the complaint side.
Now the bad. There is not much in the erotica side to this story and what is sexual is the same over and over and not something that is every other erotic novel out there. There was nothing interesting about it. Kam is so far from a Dom that it is laughable. He wouldn’t know what to do with half the items in the dungeon he has. I think the author fell into “a kiss is more intimate than anything else sexually” idea because if I had read the word kiss one more time I might have screamed.
Maybe if this story had been categorized as romantic suspense it would have been better but as it says it is erotica and the synopsis makes you think that this book comes up lacking.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
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