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Phoenix
In a small town in Cornwall, a fighter and a schoolteacher meet.
Dangerous. Bad News. Killer. This is what Phoenix sees when he looks in the mirror.
Shy. Timid. Afraid. This is what Eve sees in her own reflection.
But when Eve looks at Phoenix she sees a strong, handsome, sensual man. And when Phoenix looks at Eve he sees a beautiful, untouchable, heavenly creature. Together they will help each other to escape the labels they have lived with for so long.
Will the ghosts of their pasts return to hinder their happiness?
Or will true love lead to freedom?
Phoenix is a story of two lonely souls trying to find solace in one another’s hearts.
**Suitable for readers 18 years and over.**
Dangerous. Bad News. Killer. This is what Phoenix sees when he looks in the mirror.
Shy. Timid. Afraid. This is what Eve sees in her own reflection.
But when Eve looks at Phoenix she sees a strong, handsome, sensual man. And when Phoenix looks at Eve he sees a beautiful, untouchable, heavenly creature. Together they will help each other to escape the labels they have lived with for so long.
Will the ghosts of their pasts return to hinder their happiness?
Or will true love lead to freedom?
Phoenix is a story of two lonely souls trying to find solace in one another’s hearts.
**Suitable for readers 18 years and over.**
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2013
27 people are currently reading
2314 people want to read
About the author
Raine Anthony
1 book115 followersRaine Anthony is the pen name of a British-born freelance writer. She is in her late twenties and has a number of successfully published novels under her belt. She likes pictures of birds. She is an avid reader with a love of laughter, a hatred of high heels and an indifference to a lot of things in between. Her romance novel, Phoenix, was written many years ago and almost forgotten. This year she decided to give it life again by publishing it. She hopes that readers will enjoy the tale.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
September 26, 2013
A phoenix is a mythical bird that is a fire spirit with a colorful plumage and a tail of gold and scarlet. It has a 500 to 1000 year life-cycle, near the end of which it builds itself a nest of twigs that then ignites; both nest and bird burn fiercely and are reduced to ashes, from which a new, young phoenix or phoenix egg arises, reborn anew to live again. The new phoenix is destined to live as long as its old self. It is said that the bird's cry is that of a beautiful song.
Dangerous. Bad News. Killer. This is what Phoenix sees when he looks in the mirror.
Where do I sigh up??? I want one!
That was my what I said after I'd read the blurb for Phoenix. My reaction after reading the prologue, went something like this:
Fucking beautiful words!!!
Phoenix is a man who has been through and experienced the worst side of humanity. His feelings have never mattered, his life was full of pain, everyday a fight for survival. Betrayed by the one person who was supposed to care for him. His life is grim and full of darkness, until the night the image of a rose brings him salvation.
Eve is a quite timid soul, not because she wishes to be this way but because of an upbringing that lacked the love and care that parents should give. Her piano teacher is the one woman who saved her from living a depressing and drab existence without hope.
When Eve and Phoenix meet sparks fly but not in the way you might think! When they finally accept their feelings and begin a tentative relationship, they begin to heal each other in the only way two broken souls can.
But when a hurdle in the form of petty town gossips and secrets from their pasts rears its ugly head, it seems as if their burgeoning love won't make it.
Phoenix proves himself by being there for Eve when she needs him most and Eve proves herself worthy of his love when she accepts Phoenix for who he is flaws and all.
Final Thoughts
I really enjoyed reading this book, it was written in a beautiful prose which appealed to me. The book moved at a steady and believable pace, so I didn't feel like any parts were drawn out or perhaps there was too little detail. One thing that did surprise me was the steaminess! I mean I got pretty hot and bothered while reading this book!
Why 4 and not 5 stars? One thing. I would have loved an alternating POV, frankly I've become spoiled, I love being inside the male leads head! Otherwise, this was a great read!
Broody hero - Check
Broken heroine - Check
Heartwarming Love story - Triple check!!!
ARC recieved courtesy of author Raine Anthony in return for an honest review
Dangerous. Bad News. Killer. This is what Phoenix sees when he looks in the mirror.
Where do I sigh up??? I want one!
That was my what I said after I'd read the blurb for Phoenix. My reaction after reading the prologue, went something like this:
Fucking beautiful words!!!
Phoenix is a man who has been through and experienced the worst side of humanity. His feelings have never mattered, his life was full of pain, everyday a fight for survival. Betrayed by the one person who was supposed to care for him. His life is grim and full of darkness, until the night the image of a rose brings him salvation.
Eve is a quite timid soul, not because she wishes to be this way but because of an upbringing that lacked the love and care that parents should give. Her piano teacher is the one woman who saved her from living a depressing and drab existence without hope.
When Eve and Phoenix meet sparks fly but not in the way you might think! When they finally accept their feelings and begin a tentative relationship, they begin to heal each other in the only way two broken souls can.
But when a hurdle in the form of petty town gossips and secrets from their pasts rears its ugly head, it seems as if their burgeoning love won't make it.
Phoenix proves himself by being there for Eve when she needs him most and Eve proves herself worthy of his love when she accepts Phoenix for who he is flaws and all.
Final Thoughts
I really enjoyed reading this book, it was written in a beautiful prose which appealed to me. The book moved at a steady and believable pace, so I didn't feel like any parts were drawn out or perhaps there was too little detail. One thing that did surprise me was the steaminess! I mean I got pretty hot and bothered while reading this book!
Why 4 and not 5 stars? One thing. I would have loved an alternating POV, frankly I've become spoiled, I love being inside the male leads head! Otherwise, this was a great read!
Broody hero - Check
Broken heroine - Check
Heartwarming Love story - Triple check!!!
ARC recieved courtesy of author Raine Anthony in return for an honest review
May 7, 2014
4 Running Stars!
Eve is running away from her past, and ends up in a little town as a teacher.
She immediately meets her new neighbor, Phoenix, and he is mysterious as he is attractive.
Things between them start to heat ands neither of them is looking for love, but somehow love ends up finding them.
But when their pasts and their secrets start to surface, when small town life gets too nosy and something starts to go after Eve, thy have to decide how strong their new found love really is.
Rating: 4 Stars.
Storyline: A sweet romance, low on angst and easy to read. A sweet and engaging story with some unexpected twists but also with some lose ends that lacked some devlopment.
Writing Style: First person, female POV. Well written and engaging.
Character Development: Eve was a little too naive and too innocent for my taste, but I liked her. Phoenix was pretty good and easy to like. There were almost no relevant supportive characters and that was something that was missed on the story.
Steam: Some hot moments
HEA:
Eve is running away from her past, and ends up in a little town as a teacher.
She immediately meets her new neighbor, Phoenix, and he is mysterious as he is attractive.
Things between them start to heat ands neither of them is looking for love, but somehow love ends up finding them.
But when their pasts and their secrets start to surface, when small town life gets too nosy and something starts to go after Eve, thy have to decide how strong their new found love really is.
Rating: 4 Stars.
Storyline: A sweet romance, low on angst and easy to read. A sweet and engaging story with some unexpected twists but also with some lose ends that lacked some devlopment.
Writing Style: First person, female POV. Well written and engaging.
Character Development: Eve was a little too naive and too innocent for my taste, but I liked her. Phoenix was pretty good and easy to like. There were almost no relevant supportive characters and that was something that was missed on the story.
Steam: Some hot moments
HEA:
October 8, 2016
Reread October 2016
This has to be one of my all time favorite books. It is so beautifully written. It's like it's a combination Old World style of writing mixed with New World references. These two characters are made for each other....they HEAL each other.
I really wish I knew what happened to the author. All her social media stops after the release of this book. Raine Anthony is a pen name so I have no idea if something happened to the author or not. I would love to read more of her work.
Original review November 2015
I absolutely, unequivocally loved this book. There's not much for me to say beyond that except I've never read a book where two people deserved each other more or deserved a happy ever after. Their love for each other was a balm on my soul. The way they heal each other and believed in each other was definitely beyond measure. I have all kinds of gooey, happy feelings now.
This has to be one of my all time favorite books. It is so beautifully written. It's like it's a combination Old World style of writing mixed with New World references. These two characters are made for each other....they HEAL each other.
I really wish I knew what happened to the author. All her social media stops after the release of this book. Raine Anthony is a pen name so I have no idea if something happened to the author or not. I would love to read more of her work.
Original review November 2015
I absolutely, unequivocally loved this book. There's not much for me to say beyond that except I've never read a book where two people deserved each other more or deserved a happy ever after. Their love for each other was a balm on my soul. The way they heal each other and believed in each other was definitely beyond measure. I have all kinds of gooey, happy feelings now.
September 5, 2014
Cover: 8/10
Plot: New lives.
Writing style: 9/10
Heroine: 8/10
Hero: 9/10
Humour: 1/10
Jealousy: 2/10
Hotness: 8/10
Action: 3/10
Romance: 8/10
Ending: 9/10
Extra book Details: Stand alone. HEA.
Overall: Sweet.
Blurb: Eve's only friend is a old woman with a love of history and the piano, when she dies, she leaves her fortune to Eve (Eve describes their relationship like Matilda and Miss Honey, she is also very much the odd one out in her large family). Taking it as an opportunity to escape her horrid family, she moves to Cornwall and into a cottage, in a town which harbours beauty, country, middle class life, some nosy residents and a beautiful mysterious neighbour.
Eve: Sweet and innocent without being naïve, she is a very good person and also very romantic at heart, she also loves music, history and poetry. Upon moving in, we see her feel positive in her decisions and eagerness to start anew, little things can bring back anxiety; she's bad with crowds and strangers, closed spaces and confrontation.
Phoenix: Tall, dark and handsome. He's a trained fighter, weighed down with guilt and lack of self-worth. His life through his teens has been violent, and he's been made to go through a lot of horrid experiences unwillingly. He's lived in Cornwall for 10 years now, he's antisocial and has kept himself away from the neighbours and residents of the town until Eve comes along with her offer of friendship. He's very disciplined when it comes to his feelings. Eve is unlike the women he's used to, she brings light to his day and he allows himself to let her in despite his nervousness when it comes to sexual urges, being touched and self-control.
Eve and Phoenix have a lot in common, both; struggle with social situations, are trying to escape the violence and mistreatment in their pasts, chose a quiet place to live to get on with their lives, appreciate beauty, are very sweet. At the beginning they enter a very timid and tentative relationship, both very wary of each other, but very much connected.
I loved the lead characters, so kind and genuine. It also got very steamy, Eve and Phoenix became insatiable, which is probably understandable with their sexual history. And oh yeah, cos it's a British angsty contemporary romance, got to see the term 'absolutely shitfaced' lol. Would have liked to see dual POV's, would have made the book a little darker with Phoenix's inner-monologue.
Plot: New lives.
Writing style: 9/10
Heroine: 8/10
Hero: 9/10
Humour: 1/10
Jealousy: 2/10
Hotness: 8/10
Action: 3/10
Romance: 8/10
Ending: 9/10
Extra book Details: Stand alone. HEA.
Overall: Sweet.
Blurb: Eve's only friend is a old woman with a love of history and the piano, when she dies, she leaves her fortune to Eve (Eve describes their relationship like Matilda and Miss Honey, she is also very much the odd one out in her large family). Taking it as an opportunity to escape her horrid family, she moves to Cornwall and into a cottage, in a town which harbours beauty, country, middle class life, some nosy residents and a beautiful mysterious neighbour.
Eve: Sweet and innocent without being naïve, she is a very good person and also very romantic at heart, she also loves music, history and poetry. Upon moving in, we see her feel positive in her decisions and eagerness to start anew, little things can bring back anxiety; she's bad with crowds and strangers, closed spaces and confrontation.
Phoenix: Tall, dark and handsome. He's a trained fighter, weighed down with guilt and lack of self-worth. His life through his teens has been violent, and he's been made to go through a lot of horrid experiences unwillingly. He's lived in Cornwall for 10 years now, he's antisocial and has kept himself away from the neighbours and residents of the town until Eve comes along with her offer of friendship. He's very disciplined when it comes to his feelings. Eve is unlike the women he's used to, she brings light to his day and he allows himself to let her in despite his nervousness when it comes to sexual urges, being touched and self-control.
Eve and Phoenix have a lot in common, both; struggle with social situations, are trying to escape the violence and mistreatment in their pasts, chose a quiet place to live to get on with their lives, appreciate beauty, are very sweet. At the beginning they enter a very timid and tentative relationship, both very wary of each other, but very much connected.
I loved the lead characters, so kind and genuine. It also got very steamy, Eve and Phoenix became insatiable, which is probably understandable with their sexual history. And oh yeah, cos it's a British angsty contemporary romance, got to see the term 'absolutely shitfaced' lol. Would have liked to see dual POV's, would have made the book a little darker with Phoenix's inner-monologue.
October 9, 2013
This book had me utterly captivated and enthralled from start to finish. I am so in love with this story, I can't even put it into words. It's a story of two human spirits, tattered and seemingly broken beyond repair.
But through each other they see a mirror into each other's souls. And they are the catalyst for each other's beautiful metamorphosis.
Through each other they find peace, comfort, and a spectacular love.
This is the story of two people who had been abused, mistreated, and living in their own personal prisons.
Phoenix was sold by his family into a brutal human trafficking ring where he is forced to fight to the death for other's entertainment and profit.
There was once a time when I did not know the horror of death, when I did not wield it with my bare hands like the grim reaper's assassin. The person I once was is gone. Now I am a prisoner who experiences nothing but what he is forced to do by a devil in plain clothes.
Eve comes from a toxic family who mistreated, neglected, bullied, and abused her physically and emotionally. Her sadistic brother would torment and beat her every chance he got. She grew up with no friends and absolutely no protection from her parents who knowingly allowed her abuse to continue her entire life.
The one person who truly cared about her was an elderly woman who taught her there are good, genuine people out there, who are not out to hurt you. She taught her to play the piano, gave her unconditional love, and a safe haven from her home life. When she passed away, she left her her fortune and finally a sliver of hope for Eve, so she might live a happier life. She moves far away from her tormenter and builds a new life as a teacher in a small town. But the effects of a lifetime of hurt and humiliation follow her. She has anxiety, panic attacks, and is uncomfortable being around most people. Her brother's abuse has caused her to be shy and she has little self confidence or happiness. She's merely surviving.
Inside, I am nine years old and afraid of the world. Inside, I feel like I am so much bigger than on the outside. The landscape of my pain has so many more places in which to fester than the small circumference of my skin. I want to be separated from my family by more than just miles. I want it to be as though I was never even part of them to begin with.
Phoenix is reclusive, brooding, and pretty intimidating. Eve is timid, shy, and apologetic. There couldn't be two more different people. But underneath that, their pasts link them and they see the common thread of hurt hiding below the surface. They are both immediately attracted to each other, but wary.
He sucks in a deep breath and takes a step towards me. "Do you know, you haven't even told me your name yet," he says, reaching forward and tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. His touch is comfort I didn't even know I needed. All too soon it's gone. I want him to touch me again.
My breath quickens. "Eve. My name is Eve."
"Are you trying to tempt me, Eve?"
"No," I whisper throatily. "I just want to be friends."
"I don't do friends."
Eve and Phoenix are going to have to have to navigate through lots of obstacles in order to make a relationship work. Their hurtful pasts, jealous and vindictive townspeople, and
Eve's horrible family are just a few of things they have to contend with. But they quickly form a bond that is unbreakable and they become each other's champions.
"You are too good." Pausing, he looks up into the clear sky for a moment. "Too good for the likes of me."
"Look at me, Phoenix." He does. "I've known bad people, and you're not one of them. Whatever went on in your past, I know it wasn't your fault. I see you. I can feel your light."
"Are you forgiving me for my sins, darling?"
"As far as I'm concerned, there's nothing to forgive."
These two create some of the most passionately erotic scenes I have read. Their beautiful connection really jumps off the pages and grabs a hold of you. The piano scene in particular was smoking hot. He asks her to play the piano for him...and oh Lord....DAMN. HOT.
A minute goes by and I open my eyes. Phoenix has moved from the sofa and is kneeling by me, enraptured by my playing. His eyes are trained on the movement of my fingers. His hand rests softly on my knee. I don't stop.
Then I feel his work roughened palm slide up my bare leg from his position below me. Slowly and softly, he pushes my dress up so that it is around my hips. I hesitate and my hands fumble on the keys. I close my eyes again and take a deep breath.
"Please, don't stop playing, Eve," comes Phoenix's raspy plea. "No matter what I do, don't stop."
I play.
He spreads my thighs further apart and crawls beneath the piano so that he is between them.
I absolutely loved this couple. I adored seeing Eve's confidence and strength grow. And I loved seeing his self worth and hope blossom because of Eve.
I am metamorphosing right now, with Phoenix. He is luring me to open up, to let someone in other than Harriet who is gone. His presence in my life is turning me into someone new. I am shedding my old skin for him.
I couldn't love Phoenix more. He is tormented by a cruel past, and is hardened and rough. But from the beginning, he treats Eve as if she is the most fragile, precious, and beautiful creature. He is one of the most fiercely protective Heroes I've read and I melted at how he is determined to slay any dragon who dares to hurt her. To him, she is "his rose". The rose is what he symbolizes as hope. He even makes her a couple of things that have roses carved into them that was so incredibly sweet.(He's a furniture maker)
"Sometimes I lie awake at night thinking of how he has hurt you and I feel like I'm going insane. I need to punish him. I need to make him feel what you felt."
"Eve," he growls, his hand moving up my leg and caressing the back of my knee. "You don't need to know. Let me protect you. I NEED to protect you from them. I always thought my years of fighting were meaningless. A simple case of bad luck in a bad world. Now I am coming to believe that I was being made into the man who would defend you. I want to give you the gift of my protection. Take it."
This book was a Wow book.
Love, love, LOVED it.
The more you sink into the story, the more you will fall in love with these two damaged people and their beautiful story. I little warning though...the ending is wrench your heart. It left me teary eyed with a big, sappy grin on my face. The only downfall I see is there is sure to be a book hangover on my horizon.
But that's not an awful problem to have.
September 22, 2013
"Unfortunately books always have better endings than real life."
I was drawn to this book after reading just the blurb. So one can only imagine my extreme joy when I was given an ARC of this. There is only one word that seems fit to describe this book and thats touching. Its a quiet story. I feel as if the author didn't try to beat readers over the head with drama or fighting or back and forth antics from the hero and heroine. Eve and Phoenix's relationship felt quite natural, like two people coming together who were just meant to be. They truly brought out the best in each other, and have become one of my favorite fictional couples.
"Sometimes you have learned the role of victim so well that it is no longer a role, it has become an intrinsic, unchangeable part of you."
At the beginning of the book we meet shy, quiet Eve who is starting a new job as a high school teacher. After losing a close friend, Eve is ready for a fresh start. She is also running from a painful past that involves her family. Eve has been warned about her antisocial neighbor who keeps to himself and doesn't interact personally with anyone in the town. Even though many people in town have tried to befriend him, Phoenix keeps to himself and quietly runs his carpenter business. When he meets Eve all of this changes, he is drawn to her as she is to him. Like Eve, Phoenix has secrets of a painful past that he doesn't share with anyone. At first, he is hesitant to share details of his life with Eve, because he doesn't want to change her image of him. When he eventually lets Eve in he feels something he has never before felt in his life: love.
"When I said you weren't ready for all of me, it was a lie. Because the truth is that I am not ready for all of you."
Eve and Phoenix's relationship continues to blossom as they get to know each other, and grow closer together. Phoenix feels unworthy of Eve, but when a threat from Eve's past reappears in her life he does everything in his power to shield and protect her. Together, these two helped pull each other out from a lonely, dull existence. They heal other and bring out the best in each other. This probably made me enjoy this book as much as did. Love can be all about the romance butterflies and stars in the sky, but its also about finding the person that touches that place deep inside of you that no one has before. This is what Phoenix and Eve found in each other.
"I have found the other half of my soul in this man and I am never, ever letting him go."
Rating: 4 Heartfelt Stars
ARC received from author Raine Anthony in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2016
"If the soul is left in darkness, sins will be committed. The guilty one is not he who committed the sin, but the one who causes the darkness."
WOW such a beautiful story !! It was a one of these quiet stories that slowly sneaking up on you and touch your heart.
There was no drama and no Angst. And there was no need. The story focused on the beautiful love story between two broken people with a broken past who found Home in each other and were healed together.
Phoenix was a beautiful soul.
He went through a lot in his life and his story pinched my heart. He thought he was low, inferior, and not worth anything. Eve showed him how beautiful he really is inside.
And Eve .. she was so strong! She thought she was weak, but to me she was a fighter. I really liked being in her head.
I really enjoyed this book. Towards the end I was sad - I didn't want it to end! I was very impressed that this is the author's first book and I definitely will be watching out for her books.
WOW such a beautiful story !! It was a one of these quiet stories that slowly sneaking up on you and touch your heart.
There was no drama and no Angst. And there was no need. The story focused on the beautiful love story between two broken people with a broken past who found Home in each other and were healed together.
Phoenix was a beautiful soul.
He went through a lot in his life and his story pinched my heart. He thought he was low, inferior, and not worth anything. Eve showed him how beautiful he really is inside.
And Eve .. she was so strong! She thought she was weak, but to me she was a fighter. I really liked being in her head.
I really enjoyed this book. Towards the end I was sad - I didn't want it to end! I was very impressed that this is the author's first book and I definitely will be watching out for her books.
May 4, 2017
**3.5 stars**
You know those times when you reach the end of a book, close it (or hit home on your Kindle) and know exactly how you feel when you finish? Yeah, well, this isn't one of those times. I find myself in a pickle. There were parts I really liked and others that left me wanting more and feeling disappointed.
This story had TONS of potential. The blurb had me hooked and the prologue reeled me in.
I never fully felt connected to either Eve or Phoenix. They both had dark pasts that should have tugged at the heartstrings, but with the dialogue being a bit disjointed and so matter-of-fact when they shared their stories with each other, I couldn't feel anything for what they'd gone through. I'm not sure if this had something to do with the fact that the story was told in first-person from Eve's point of view, or the choppy flow, but it just wasn't there.
I think this book would have benefited greatly from periodic chapters in Phoenix's point of view. The prologue and epilogue (which were the only parts from his POV) felt better constructed and had more depth than the whole book combined.
I will say that the things that came out of Phoenix's mouth were.....HOT! The man sure can steam up a page!
Overall, it was sweet watching the relationship and love blossom between introverted Eve and broody Phoenix as they let go of their pasts and tried to find happiness and peace within each other. With a bit of editing and crafting, this story would have easily been a 4 star read.
You know those times when you reach the end of a book, close it (or hit home on your Kindle) and know exactly how you feel when you finish? Yeah, well, this isn't one of those times. I find myself in a pickle. There were parts I really liked and others that left me wanting more and feeling disappointed.
This story had TONS of potential. The blurb had me hooked and the prologue reeled me in.
I never fully felt connected to either Eve or Phoenix. They both had dark pasts that should have tugged at the heartstrings, but with the dialogue being a bit disjointed and so matter-of-fact when they shared their stories with each other, I couldn't feel anything for what they'd gone through. I'm not sure if this had something to do with the fact that the story was told in first-person from Eve's point of view, or the choppy flow, but it just wasn't there.
I think this book would have benefited greatly from periodic chapters in Phoenix's point of view. The prologue and epilogue (which were the only parts from his POV) felt better constructed and had more depth than the whole book combined.
I will say that the things that came out of Phoenix's mouth were.....HOT! The man sure can steam up a page!
Overall, it was sweet watching the relationship and love blossom between introverted Eve and broody Phoenix as they let go of their pasts and tried to find happiness and peace within each other. With a bit of editing and crafting, this story would have easily been a 4 star read.
June 13, 2015
Two lonely souls trying to find solace in one another's hearts...
Phoenix was a beautiful, captivating and sweet romantic story that rendered me speechless and made butterflies flutter in my stomach. I'm utterly at loss for words to say and any coherent thought fled my mind the second I read this. I think my whole being just melted into a puddle on the ground along with my brain and heart in it.
The characters were wonderful, I loved the flow of the story and the build up between Phoenix and Eve made me smile like a hopeless romantic teenager watching her first chick flick. I felt the deep and intense connection between these two—both sexually and romantically. Phoenix and Eve are so perfect together that seeing them as a couple almost brought treacherous tears to my eyes. In fact, I find their story somewhat reminiscent of Mia Sheridan's Archer's Voice, and I love both books just as equally.
Really enjoyed this. I can't believe it took me a damn year to read this one, I just happen to realize that this has been sitting in my library for months and I'm going to have my own arse kicked for not paying this wonderful book the attention it needed. Though I would have given this 5 stars if we had a glimpse of Phoenix and Eve's future lives together. That said, I'm still happy with how things ended. The poem Eve made for Phoenix was the icing on top of the cake and it just melted my heart and mind altogether. I hope Ms. Raine Anthony continue to write touching stories like this one.
4 stars for a beautiful romance.
Phoenix was a beautiful, captivating and sweet romantic story that rendered me speechless and made butterflies flutter in my stomach. I'm utterly at loss for words to say and any coherent thought fled my mind the second I read this. I think my whole being just melted into a puddle on the ground along with my brain and heart in it.
The characters were wonderful, I loved the flow of the story and the build up between Phoenix and Eve made me smile like a hopeless romantic teenager watching her first chick flick. I felt the deep and intense connection between these two—both sexually and romantically. Phoenix and Eve are so perfect together that seeing them as a couple almost brought treacherous tears to my eyes. In fact, I find their story somewhat reminiscent of Mia Sheridan's Archer's Voice, and I love both books just as equally.
Really enjoyed this. I can't believe it took me a damn year to read this one, I just happen to realize that this has been sitting in my library for months and I'm going to have my own arse kicked for not paying this wonderful book the attention it needed. Though I would have given this 5 stars if we had a glimpse of Phoenix and Eve's future lives together. That said, I'm still happy with how things ended. The poem Eve made for Phoenix was the icing on top of the cake and it just melted my heart and mind altogether. I hope Ms. Raine Anthony continue to write touching stories like this one.
4 stars for a beautiful romance.
September 13, 2013
Ok this is probably the only time you will ever see me write the following – I WISH THIS STORY HAD ENDED IN A CLIFFHANGER, so there is the opportunity for more books! I loved Phoenix and Eve, and I so want to read more of their story.
Raine Anthony has developed in Phoenix Smith a character whose back-story may actually be more interesting than the story that has been told, and that’s saying something because I really, really liked the book, but I want MORE. I want to know about Phoenix’s life prior to settling in Cornwall, and if you choose to read this book you will understand just how much of a story this guy could possibly have. Yes, it may be dark, disturbing and a little uncomfortable to read, but because I loved Phoenix Smith so much, I want to know everything I can about him.
Phoenix - “are you trying to tempt me Eve?”
Eve - “No” I whisper throatily “I just want to be friends”.
Phoenix – “I don’t do friends”
Eve is a pretty interesting character as well, she has had a pretty horrific start to life and by moving to Cornwall, hopes to leave it all behind and start afresh. She is pretty inexperienced about the world and men as a whole, due to her upbringing, and only having Harriet an older lady as a friend. I liked that she pushed herself to step out of her comfort zone, by taking steps to do things that she normally wouldn’t have the courage to do.
I loved that Eve used music, namely playing the piano and poetry to express herself, the latter which ultimately leads her to Phoenix, and although it doesn’t initially go well, I think being almost the complete opposites is what ultimately makes them such a strong unit together. Phoenix has no fear, Eve constantly battles against being afraid. He isn’t scared to stand up for himself and those he believes in, whilst Eve ultimately tries to stay under the radar. Although her confidence grows throughout the book, and I had to laugh a couple of times when she stood up for herself with the neighborhood b!tches!!
This is a book that I think most people will either love or hate, for me it is definitely love. I liked the writing style, it is very anglicized (which may not work for others), and being British, I loved that Phoenix used the term “darling” frequently. I would say Raine’s writing style is a little like Trisha Ashley in that the story is written around a very British village, with normal occurrences being fetes and Sunday lunches, but it has the added spice of some very well written sex scenes, and a little romantic suspense thrown in for good measure.
Phoenix - “I want to, Eve. I want to. Just not…..” he pauses and trails off, then finishes, “you’re not ready for all of me.”
I have to say I also liked that they didn’t immediately jump in the sack together (although the sexual tension, and what they do instead is pretty hot), this is ultimately due to issues that they are both dealing with (again this is why I want more of Phoenix’s back-story), but when they did take the step Yeeeha is all I can say!
I am so grateful to Raine for allowing me read an advance copy of this book, as thanks I am happy to provide the above honest review. All I can say is this is a story that should have been released a long time ago; however I am glad it is being released now. I just hope at some point we get some more of Phoenix Smith at some point in the future.
Raine Anthony has developed in Phoenix Smith a character whose back-story may actually be more interesting than the story that has been told, and that’s saying something because I really, really liked the book, but I want MORE. I want to know about Phoenix’s life prior to settling in Cornwall, and if you choose to read this book you will understand just how much of a story this guy could possibly have. Yes, it may be dark, disturbing and a little uncomfortable to read, but because I loved Phoenix Smith so much, I want to know everything I can about him.
Phoenix - “are you trying to tempt me Eve?”
Eve - “No” I whisper throatily “I just want to be friends”.
Phoenix – “I don’t do friends”
Eve is a pretty interesting character as well, she has had a pretty horrific start to life and by moving to Cornwall, hopes to leave it all behind and start afresh. She is pretty inexperienced about the world and men as a whole, due to her upbringing, and only having Harriet an older lady as a friend. I liked that she pushed herself to step out of her comfort zone, by taking steps to do things that she normally wouldn’t have the courage to do.
I loved that Eve used music, namely playing the piano and poetry to express herself, the latter which ultimately leads her to Phoenix, and although it doesn’t initially go well, I think being almost the complete opposites is what ultimately makes them such a strong unit together. Phoenix has no fear, Eve constantly battles against being afraid. He isn’t scared to stand up for himself and those he believes in, whilst Eve ultimately tries to stay under the radar. Although her confidence grows throughout the book, and I had to laugh a couple of times when she stood up for herself with the neighborhood b!tches!!
This is a book that I think most people will either love or hate, for me it is definitely love. I liked the writing style, it is very anglicized (which may not work for others), and being British, I loved that Phoenix used the term “darling” frequently. I would say Raine’s writing style is a little like Trisha Ashley in that the story is written around a very British village, with normal occurrences being fetes and Sunday lunches, but it has the added spice of some very well written sex scenes, and a little romantic suspense thrown in for good measure.
Phoenix - “I want to, Eve. I want to. Just not…..” he pauses and trails off, then finishes, “you’re not ready for all of me.”
I have to say I also liked that they didn’t immediately jump in the sack together (although the sexual tension, and what they do instead is pretty hot), this is ultimately due to issues that they are both dealing with (again this is why I want more of Phoenix’s back-story), but when they did take the step Yeeeha is all I can say!
I am so grateful to Raine for allowing me read an advance copy of this book, as thanks I am happy to provide the above honest review. All I can say is this is a story that should have been released a long time ago; however I am glad it is being released now. I just hope at some point we get some more of Phoenix Smith at some point in the future.
May 3, 2017
I've seen a few reviewers do this, so I'm going to be a copy-cat on this occasion for the purpose of this review.
Steam: 4.5. So hot! That piano scene! Wow!
Drama: Light OW, no angst.
Safety: Very. H (8 years celibate), h (1 ex lover)
Plot: 3. Both suffer from disturbing violent pasts which they are escaping. Most of the book was them getting to know one another. The ending was slightly anti-climactic and not as thrilling as it could have been.
Hero: 4. He's enamoured, honed & self aware, with a violent edge. And he doesn't do that really annoying thing where he withholds information whilst the heroine yaps on about the hardships of her life. He confided in her too slowly but surely.
Heroine: 2. She's very breathy/ flimsy type - becomes more confident.
Antagonist: Heroine's brother.
Dynamic/Chemistry: A little stiff and formal at points of conversation but it matches their solitary attitudes and British ways.
HEA: HFN definitely implied HEA.
Would I read more books from this author? Definitely if they are this calibre and moderately safe.
Steam: 4.5. So hot! That piano scene! Wow!
Drama: Light OW, no angst.
Safety: Very. H (8 years celibate), h (1 ex lover)
Plot: 3. Both suffer from disturbing violent pasts which they are escaping. Most of the book was them getting to know one another. The ending was slightly anti-climactic and not as thrilling as it could have been.
Hero: 4. He's enamoured, honed & self aware, with a violent edge. And he doesn't do that really annoying thing where he withholds information whilst the heroine yaps on about the hardships of her life. He confided in her too slowly but surely.
Heroine: 2. She's very breathy/ flimsy type - becomes more confident.
Antagonist: Heroine's brother.
Dynamic/Chemistry: A little stiff and formal at points of conversation but it matches their solitary attitudes and British ways.
HEA: HFN definitely implied HEA.
Would I read more books from this author? Definitely if they are this calibre and moderately safe.
February 9, 2017
4.5 Stars.
Loved this book!!! Loved the story. Loved that the story took place in a small town in Britain.
The author wrote in the back of the book in her acknowledgements how she wrote this some time ago, but just now decided to release it. SO GLAD SHE DID.
I love the cover and I think it is a perfect description of the book, of Phoenix. This is how I picture Phoenix .
Eve has finally escaped years of abuse from her home. She comes to live in this small town where she hopes she will find peace and quiet working as a school teacher. One day she comes across her neighbor, Phoenix. She friends him one day and I love how it all developed. Phoenix feels he is not good. He has done some awful things in his past; things that he feels are unforgivable. My heart ached for him and you sensed the abuse he received all those years ago by the way he acts and reacts to things.
Phoenix is quiet and keeps to himself, but I love how protective he is of Eve. I did not want this story to end. I love the way Phoenix handled situations. I love how he handled Eve. These were two people who were destined to find each other and to heal each other.
I could not put it down especially when danger was coming back and Eve with her big heart. I was holding my breath.
"I will never tire of this," he vows.
I highly recommend.
Loved this book!!! Loved the story. Loved that the story took place in a small town in Britain.
The author wrote in the back of the book in her acknowledgements how she wrote this some time ago, but just now decided to release it. SO GLAD SHE DID.
I love the cover and I think it is a perfect description of the book, of Phoenix. This is how I picture Phoenix .
Eve has finally escaped years of abuse from her home. She comes to live in this small town where she hopes she will find peace and quiet working as a school teacher. One day she comes across her neighbor, Phoenix. She friends him one day and I love how it all developed. Phoenix feels he is not good. He has done some awful things in his past; things that he feels are unforgivable. My heart ached for him and you sensed the abuse he received all those years ago by the way he acts and reacts to things.
Phoenix is quiet and keeps to himself, but I love how protective he is of Eve. I did not want this story to end. I love the way Phoenix handled situations. I love how he handled Eve. These were two people who were destined to find each other and to heal each other.
I could not put it down especially when danger was coming back and Eve with her big heart. I was holding my breath.
"I will never tire of this," he vows.
I highly recommend.
May 20, 2015
I really loved this! Pheonix and Eve were great together and I got that deep emotional connection I look forward to in romance books. I absolutely loved that Pheonix was a celibate of 8 years!! Eve being so unexperienced didn't even bother me after learning that.
This one of those books where the hero is scary and gruff and keeps everyone at a distance but doesn't stand a chance when it comes to his heroine. I absolutely love those types of heros!
Four stars because I wanted more! The ending is more of a HFN. They didn't talk about the future much and it saddens me to not know if they got married or had any kids. I would've LOVED seeing that part of their life as well.
Thanks Maayan for recommending this book! :)
This one of those books where the hero is scary and gruff and keeps everyone at a distance but doesn't stand a chance when it comes to his heroine. I absolutely love those types of heros!
Four stars because I wanted more! The ending is more of a HFN. They didn't talk about the future much and it saddens me to not know if they got married or had any kids. I would've LOVED seeing that part of their life as well.
Thanks Maayan for recommending this book! :)
August 31, 2016
3.5-stars
What I like:
~likable characters
~no melodrama
~great small town setting in England
Just okay:
The dialogue did not stir my emotions. An in-depth look in their damaged background could have been explored more in the storyline.
If you want an almost stress-free and steamy read, this book is a good pick.
#insta-love # short-length novel
What I like:
~likable characters
~no melodrama
~great small town setting in England
Just okay:
The dialogue did not stir my emotions. An in-depth look in their damaged background could have been explored more in the storyline.
If you want an almost stress-free and steamy read, this book is a good pick.
#insta-love # short-length novel
May 20, 2015
In a small town in Cornwall, a fighter and a schoolteacher meet.
Unfortunately, books always have better endings than life. How true that really is and well this book left me reeling after I read it.
In the Prologue we meet a guy and how and what he feels in his life and that his life changing moment was a rose that led him away from that life.
Eve has moved from Wales to Cornwall to get away from her abusive family and after her best friend dies she feels it is time for a change. Eve teaches History at an all boys private school. She buys the cottage next to Phoenix. I loved how this book was set in England.
phoenix is a mythical bird of great beauty fabled to live 500 or 600 years in the Arabian wilderness, to burn itself on a funeral pyre, and to rise from its ashes in the freshness of youth and live through another cycle of years: often an emblem of immortality or of reborn idealism or hope.
Phoenix who is a fighter has met extraordinary pain in is short life. Eve is timid and it is like they are different sides of the same coin. This book left me reeling as I mentioned. I actually don't really have any words to describe the book so read the book. On a last note there was a beautiful poem mentioned in this book.
Phoenix Anastos
Man who has my heart
There were flames
And then there were embers
Our darkness is now gone
The ashes float into the air
And a new day unfolds
You are the mighty bird
That carried me to freedom
Your wings covered me
And drove away the fear
Your strength seeped into me
And pushed out my weakness
My timidity touched you
And made you open up
My shyness whispered to you
And showed you how to love
The cracks inside our differences Made us,
two unfinished pieces, a whole
Such a beautiful book.
Unfortunately, books always have better endings than life. How true that really is and well this book left me reeling after I read it.
In the Prologue we meet a guy and how and what he feels in his life and that his life changing moment was a rose that led him away from that life.
Eve has moved from Wales to Cornwall to get away from her abusive family and after her best friend dies she feels it is time for a change. Eve teaches History at an all boys private school. She buys the cottage next to Phoenix. I loved how this book was set in England.
phoenix is a mythical bird of great beauty fabled to live 500 or 600 years in the Arabian wilderness, to burn itself on a funeral pyre, and to rise from its ashes in the freshness of youth and live through another cycle of years: often an emblem of immortality or of reborn idealism or hope.
Phoenix who is a fighter has met extraordinary pain in is short life. Eve is timid and it is like they are different sides of the same coin. This book left me reeling as I mentioned. I actually don't really have any words to describe the book so read the book. On a last note there was a beautiful poem mentioned in this book.
Phoenix Anastos
Man who has my heart
There were flames
And then there were embers
Our darkness is now gone
The ashes float into the air
And a new day unfolds
You are the mighty bird
That carried me to freedom
Your wings covered me
And drove away the fear
Your strength seeped into me
And pushed out my weakness
My timidity touched you
And made you open up
My shyness whispered to you
And showed you how to love
The cracks inside our differences Made us,
two unfinished pieces, a whole
Such a beautiful book.
December 12, 2015
Everything was colorless , his soul was on the verge of dying .... & than he saw this red rose ... it ignited his dying soul,it made him strong enough to escape ... and after that he was simply living ,until she came and made him alive ....
I love new adult reads and this is an example of New Adult at beautiful story , and how people should stand up against abuse ....
The writing and the story is simply beautiful , I love how two people are drawn together , and the comfort level between them is amazing , like they were just made for each other , and everything just fits into perfectly....
The feeling I felt reading this was the same I feel while sitting on balcony and the cool breeze blowing ... it was soothing and i was wrapped in the cocoon of calmness.
If you want a quick, new adult read filled with lots of love,passion , and no triangle , this is a book I highly recommend.
October 23, 2013
This story was so so sweet. I melted into a puddle 100 times.
Phoenix & Eve
Eve moved into a house outside the town where she got a teaching job. She just wanted to be invisible.
She got an interesting neighbour, though. But he doesn't seem to like people much, especially women.
When I first started reading, I got the impression he was gonna be one of those silent, broody types who will fight his feelings half the book and then finally crack. You know how it goes.
But no. My God he surprised me :)
I totally swooned over this greek god!!!
They are perfect for each other and I'm so happy for them <3
Phoenix & Eve
Eve moved into a house outside the town where she got a teaching job. She just wanted to be invisible.
She got an interesting neighbour, though. But he doesn't seem to like people much, especially women.
When I first started reading, I got the impression he was gonna be one of those silent, broody types who will fight his feelings half the book and then finally crack. You know how it goes.
But no. My God he surprised me :)
I totally swooned over this greek god!!!
They are perfect for each other and I'm so happy for them <3
January 4, 2015
4.5
I think I'm going to have to go with 4.5 stars on this one! I just love these kinds of stories with sort of quiet, damaged characters that find solace in each other without a bunch of overblown angst. There's drama but it doesn't go to that stupid place-totally NOT over the top and things are resolved without everyone having freaking meltdowns. Oh, and the hero and heroine actually TALK about stuff and resolve it together...what a concept! I liked Eve, she didn't annoy me at all really, and I loved Phoenix. Perfect blend of damaged, dangerous, sweet and able to beat the crap outta someone if need be. And the steam was quite good, too! Only thing I'm bummed about is that the author doesn't seem to have any other books at all. Here's hoping she writes something else-I'd definitely give it a try.
I think I'm going to have to go with 4.5 stars on this one! I just love these kinds of stories with sort of quiet, damaged characters that find solace in each other without a bunch of overblown angst. There's drama but it doesn't go to that stupid place-totally NOT over the top and things are resolved without everyone having freaking meltdowns. Oh, and the hero and heroine actually TALK about stuff and resolve it together...what a concept! I liked Eve, she didn't annoy me at all really, and I loved Phoenix. Perfect blend of damaged, dangerous, sweet and able to beat the crap outta someone if need be. And the steam was quite good, too! Only thing I'm bummed about is that the author doesn't seem to have any other books at all. Here's hoping she writes something else-I'd definitely give it a try.
November 21, 2015
4.5 stars! Wow such a beautiful story. I absolutely love this. Two broken souls finding peace and love in each other. Phoenix and Eve were strong individuals and I love them. This read gave me so many emotions(good,sad,bad,happy,gooey)inside I want to embrace for a long time! things I thought that I wouldn't like actually didn't bother much and I understood. This would of definitely been a five star for me if it had been more of an HEA. It was more of HFN but there is no doubt thier love for each other. I just wanted more way more:) definitely one of my favorites and one I'll remember.
safety gang safe
I would really love another book about them!
safety gang safe
I would really love another book about them!
August 8, 2020
A sweet heroine and an alpha hero.
January 27, 2015
Theirs was a love story. An incredible love story. Two people trying to erase past violence from their lives. One a fighter, and the other a schoolteacher. When they first meet, it’s not without conflict. Eve trying to be friendly, just moving into a quaint small town, drops off a mere little poem in Phoenix’s mailbox. He’s none too happy about it either. So, Eve is disappointed and sad. She now keeps her distance from him, which is not such an easy task since he is her neighbor. Over time they do get to know each other, become friends, and eventually lovers. But, it’s the loyal, tender, passionate love they share that really entrances the reader. Their love was so beautiful. The author writes about two lonely people who really need each other. She really captures the true essence of their passion and loyalty to one another. Through all the destruction and heartache that these two people have endured, it’s a wonder that they’ve turned out so respectable. There is some drama to the story – a run-in with a hateful brother, some jealous and nasty women who reside in the town, and a somewhat annoying co-worker. But, this novel is mainly about Eve and Phoenix together. They are a genuine couple. The whole starry-eyed lovesick desire is going on between them. And, when they’re together the passion is sweet and sensual. HOT! FIERY! EXPLOSIVE! Whew! (fanning myself)...That tub sure got a lot of action! And, I don’t just mean for bathing either...wink wink!!!
OMG!!! Phoenix, Phoenix Phoenix...love that name!!! Now he was some compelling hero!!!
Phoenix was all male. A fighter. An emotional being. A protector. He was charming and caring. And, he couldn’t get enough of Eve. She grounded him. Lessened his quick-tempered decision to react so fiercely to intense altercations. She understood him, and to his shock, she was not afraid of him. Now Eve, she was somewhat timid and shy. Afraid to fight for herself. Constantly shielding herself against harsh situations. Towards the end of the story, though, the author does write her with more of a backbone. One not scared to voice an opinion and stand up for herself and what she believed in.
I flew through this book in no time. The love story was captivating. The characters were engaging. And, the ending was perfection! If you’re looking for a feel-good romance, then this is not one that you should pass up! 4.5 ROMANTIC STARS
Pheonix Anastos
Man who has my heart
There were flames
And then there were embers
Our darkness is now gone
The ashes float into the air
And a new day unfolds
You are the mighty bird
That carried me to freedom
Your wings covered me
And drove away the fear
Your strength seeped into me
And pushed out my weakness
My timidity touched you
And made you open up
My shyness whispered to you
And showed you how to love
The cracks inside our differences
Made us, two unfinished pieces, a whole.
*Eve’s poem to Phoenix*
(Epilogue)
OMG!!! Phoenix, Phoenix Phoenix...love that name!!! Now he was some compelling hero!!!
Phoenix was all male. A fighter. An emotional being. A protector. He was charming and caring. And, he couldn’t get enough of Eve. She grounded him. Lessened his quick-tempered decision to react so fiercely to intense altercations. She understood him, and to his shock, she was not afraid of him. Now Eve, she was somewhat timid and shy. Afraid to fight for herself. Constantly shielding herself against harsh situations. Towards the end of the story, though, the author does write her with more of a backbone. One not scared to voice an opinion and stand up for herself and what she believed in.
I flew through this book in no time. The love story was captivating. The characters were engaging. And, the ending was perfection! If you’re looking for a feel-good romance, then this is not one that you should pass up! 4.5 ROMANTIC STARS
Pheonix Anastos
Man who has my heart
There were flames
And then there were embers
Our darkness is now gone
The ashes float into the air
And a new day unfolds
You are the mighty bird
That carried me to freedom
Your wings covered me
And drove away the fear
Your strength seeped into me
And pushed out my weakness
My timidity touched you
And made you open up
My shyness whispered to you
And showed you how to love
The cracks inside our differences
Made us, two unfinished pieces, a whole.
*Eve’s poem to Phoenix*
(Epilogue)
January 20, 2014
4.75 Stars for this Amazingly Beautiful Love Story
"Because I deserve no sorries, I deserve nothing and the fact that I have found you is more than I should be given."
I will never be able convey how much I loved this book in this review. It was such a sensual book and it just felt so beautiful as I read it. Phoenix is our main character who is broken and searching for an internal peace within himself to let go of his past. Eve is his love interest, his shy and timid lover who is his rose, his reason for breathing, his passion and and the one person who allowed him to rise from the fire and become the man he always wanted to be.
He's like a hero from an ancient tale, so very fitting that he should be named after a myth.
As I read this book, I never felt like I was beat over the head with angst or mistrust. Phoenix and Eve knew from the start they were destined for each other and that their love would transcend all of their flaws. My nook pages are all highlighted up, the words on the pages made my heart melt and swoon....their lovemaking was hot and sexy and very erotic in the simplest form.
it doesn't matter where I am, so long as I am with him my heart will always beat faster.
Phoenix was such an amazing book, I recommend it to everyone who wants to find love amongst the ashes.
If the soul is left in darkness, sins will be committed. The guilty one is not who committed the sin, but the one who causes the darkness, " I whisper tenderly. (from Les Miserables)
"Because I deserve no sorries, I deserve nothing and the fact that I have found you is more than I should be given."
I will never be able convey how much I loved this book in this review. It was such a sensual book and it just felt so beautiful as I read it. Phoenix is our main character who is broken and searching for an internal peace within himself to let go of his past. Eve is his love interest, his shy and timid lover who is his rose, his reason for breathing, his passion and and the one person who allowed him to rise from the fire and become the man he always wanted to be.
He's like a hero from an ancient tale, so very fitting that he should be named after a myth.
As I read this book, I never felt like I was beat over the head with angst or mistrust. Phoenix and Eve knew from the start they were destined for each other and that their love would transcend all of their flaws. My nook pages are all highlighted up, the words on the pages made my heart melt and swoon....their lovemaking was hot and sexy and very erotic in the simplest form.
it doesn't matter where I am, so long as I am with him my heart will always beat faster.
Phoenix was such an amazing book, I recommend it to everyone who wants to find love amongst the ashes.
If the soul is left in darkness, sins will be committed. The guilty one is not who committed the sin, but the one who causes the darkness, " I whisper tenderly. (from Les Miserables)
October 17, 2013
What a beautiful, sweet, make me melt romance. Thank you Christie, I loved it!! This is one of those books classified as NA that shouldn’t be. It doesn’t fit that mold. This was a beautiful romance about two broken people finding each other and healing themselves and each other. No crazy drama between them or ridiculous angst. They communicated and were honest with each other and open even when it was difficult for them to be. It was beautiful to read. I seriously smiled through most of it, it made me feel beautiful inside. What broke these two people was not pleasant but the author didn’t go over the top with it, it was there, it shaped these people into who they were now but the focus was so much more on the healing and them falling in love. Great job on this Raine Anthony, you managed to write enough pain but not kill us with it. I really just loved it. Beautiful. Read.
November 10, 2013
3 1/2 stars (rounded down to 3 stars because I had a hard time "feeling" the story - Ms. Anthony's writing could have used the benefits of a good editor to make Phoenix and Eve's dialogues more natural)
October 14, 2013
Phoenix...... Phoenix....... Phoenix..... Lord how I love a broken soul!
I have to say that this book totally blew me away for several reasons. First the cover drew me in because it is so telling and it is the crux of the story. The cover model looks broken like he has the weight of the world on his shoulders and guess what folks yes he does. Boy I love me some phoenix because he has a past like everyone else but his past is dark and dreary and full of secrets. The one person that was supposed to love and care for him did not so what is a guy to do but lock up his heart and keep it safe. But when he meets Eve all bets are off because Eve sparks something in him he has not felt ever.
Eve is a sweet quiet girl who lives her life quietly going day to day. After Eve loses a close friend she feels lost. She is running from her past and when she moves to a new apartment she is told by her neighbors not to talk to her other neighbor because he is quiet and keeps to himself. But Eve sees Phoenix and she sees something different in him so she befriends him and this is the beginning of a love story that really captured my heart.
Eva and Phoenix soon find themselves talking to each other and soon become friends. As they get to know each other better they fall in love and it is a love that will be tested because Phoenix and Eve are both running from a past and secrets will come back to haunt them. Can they overcome the past and move on to a future that is filled will love and promises of forever? You have to read it to find out!
I have to say that this book totally blew me away for several reasons. First the cover drew me in because it is so telling and it is the crux of the story. The cover model looks broken like he has the weight of the world on his shoulders and guess what folks yes he does. Boy I love me some phoenix because he has a past like everyone else but his past is dark and dreary and full of secrets. The one person that was supposed to love and care for him did not so what is a guy to do but lock up his heart and keep it safe. But when he meets Eve all bets are off because Eve sparks something in him he has not felt ever.
Eve is a sweet quiet girl who lives her life quietly going day to day. After Eve loses a close friend she feels lost. She is running from her past and when she moves to a new apartment she is told by her neighbors not to talk to her other neighbor because he is quiet and keeps to himself. But Eve sees Phoenix and she sees something different in him so she befriends him and this is the beginning of a love story that really captured my heart.
Eva and Phoenix soon find themselves talking to each other and soon become friends. As they get to know each other better they fall in love and it is a love that will be tested because Phoenix and Eve are both running from a past and secrets will come back to haunt them. Can they overcome the past and move on to a future that is filled will love and promises of forever? You have to read it to find out!
October 17, 2013
I'm rating this 4- 4.5 stars. Great beginning, slowed at about the 40-50%. I really love British contemporary Romance lately. There was not a lot of British slang to get through-which I usually don't mind anyway. The story got going at about 50% or so.
Eve is meek and mild, due to her past family life. She moves on, has a career (a teacher). Phoenix is her neighbor.I won't go through the whole plot, since the author provides detail of Eve's daily life & Eve & Phoenix's relationship. Someone said no angst, just a great love story- but Eve & Phoenix each had their difficulties to get through, especially Eve. I wish that there was a little more detail about Phoenix "Pre Eve". I hate to spoil it, so I won't (there's not many big secrets anyway). By the way--the guy on the book cover does not look "my Phoenix" - hair is too short & needs more muscles & he should look a little older. We don't have to clone a cover, just get a guy that looks like Phoenix.
Good job Raine. Keep writing- I'll read it.
Eve is meek and mild, due to her past family life. She moves on, has a career (a teacher). Phoenix is her neighbor.I won't go through the whole plot, since the author provides detail of Eve's daily life & Eve & Phoenix's relationship. Someone said no angst, just a great love story- but Eve & Phoenix each had their difficulties to get through, especially Eve. I wish that there was a little more detail about Phoenix "Pre Eve". I hate to spoil it, so I won't (there's not many big secrets anyway). By the way--the guy on the book cover does not look "my Phoenix" - hair is too short & needs more muscles & he should look a little older. We don't have to clone a cover, just get a guy that looks like Phoenix.
Good job Raine. Keep writing- I'll read it.
February 6, 2017
How I wished that the heroine, Eve, and the hero, Phoenix, spend more time telling me their back stories rather than having sex. Don’t get me wrong, I like my romance book hot and steamy as much as the girl next door, but if it happens every time the hero and the heroine are together at any where they are, even when they aren’t together they always thinking about it and replay things they do before, while I still don’t get enough of their back story, those sex scenes are just too much for me.
I also wish that Eve less moaning. She basically moans every time she’s with Phoenix, even when he doesn’t touch her. I found it’s funny it made me cringe because she moans too many times.
And as someone who says that she has problem talking with stranger, she doesn’t seem have problem to me. Yes, she has a bit problem at the beginning of the story but then everything seems fine, especially whenever Phoenix around.
It’s good that I didn’t have much problem to connect with them. And I still enjoy a few moments. But as my first Raine Anthony book, it didn’t satisfy me much.
I also wish that Eve less moaning. She basically moans every time she’s with Phoenix, even when he doesn’t touch her. I found it’s funny it made me cringe because she moans too many times.
And as someone who says that she has problem talking with stranger, she doesn’t seem have problem to me. Yes, she has a bit problem at the beginning of the story but then everything seems fine, especially whenever Phoenix around.
It’s good that I didn’t have much problem to connect with them. And I still enjoy a few moments. But as my first Raine Anthony book, it didn’t satisfy me much.
January 23, 2016
this was a quick read with a somewhat dreamy, sweet quality to it.
meet eve, a 24 year old school teacher who is a bit shy and awkward as a result of growing up in lets face it, a pretty shit family household. she's moved to a small village for a new job and fresh start. once there her goal is to try to be more out going or as she says 'like other young people'. we then meet pheonix, the tall, dark and quietly mysterious neighbour. cue swoony feels for our eve.
90% of the book is told from eve's pov with the epilogue told from phoenix's pov. this proved to me that the author could do male pov very well so i only wish the whole book had have been told from both characters equally.
overall a nice and easy little escape, glad i picked it up.
meet eve, a 24 year old school teacher who is a bit shy and awkward as a result of growing up in lets face it, a pretty shit family household. she's moved to a small village for a new job and fresh start. once there her goal is to try to be more out going or as she says 'like other young people'. we then meet pheonix, the tall, dark and quietly mysterious neighbour. cue swoony feels for our eve.
90% of the book is told from eve's pov with the epilogue told from phoenix's pov. this proved to me that the author could do male pov very well so i only wish the whole book had have been told from both characters equally.
overall a nice and easy little escape, glad i picked it up.
June 9, 2016
Wow, just wow!! This story really touched me. Two people so broken that make each other whole again. God what each of these characters went through individually to get to this point was pretty horrific. It was amazing that they could even find the strength to open up. I truly believe they were able to look at each other and see the other half of their soul. I wish the epilogue would have been further into the future but there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that their love lasted forever. On a side note I was so glad to see Max got what was coming to him. This will be a definite reread for me.
October 11, 2013
Cover: 7/10
Writing style: 7/10
Heroine: 4/10
Hero: 4/10
Chemistry: 3/10
Humour: 0/10
Jealousy: 3/10
Hotness: 5/10
Romance: 4/10
Ending: 5/10
Extra book Details: Stand-alone. Epilogue. HEA.
Writing style: 7/10
Heroine: 4/10
Hero: 4/10
Chemistry: 3/10
Humour: 0/10
Jealousy: 3/10
Hotness: 5/10
Romance: 4/10
Ending: 5/10
Extra book Details: Stand-alone. Epilogue. HEA.
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