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From Love to Loathe Series #1
Heels of Love
When Cricket Hooper moves to Seattle she only has a couple of goals—find a job and an apartment near her friend Chelle, and basically to live a quiet, normal life. However, it isn't long before life becomes far from normal.
When a mysterious man helps get her car out of the mud after she makes a wrong turn, she finds herself in his thrall. He wines and dines her, quite literally, and before Cricket can stop it, things are steamy and serious…very serious.
Cricket is thrown aback when Jyme turns out to be more than a simple fisherman, but then she isn't telling all of her story either.
When a mysterious man helps get her car out of the mud after she makes a wrong turn, she finds herself in his thrall. He wines and dines her, quite literally, and before Cricket can stop it, things are steamy and serious…very serious.
Cricket is thrown aback when Jyme turns out to be more than a simple fisherman, but then she isn't telling all of her story either.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 26, 2013
16 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Phoenix Rayne
33 books122 followers"I'm one of those freaky people that actually reads books." -Jason Momoa
Phoenix Rayne is the alter ego of a small town girl in Arkansas. She’s an avid reader and enjoys hanging out with her closest girlfriends and dressing up for dinner parties. She released her first book in November of 2013 and has been ecstatic with the incredible backup of her work.
Phoenix Rayne is the author of the “From The From Love to Loathe” series. The first installment of the Contemporary Romance Series is “Heels of Love”, the second is “The Enclave of Jyme”, the third is “Wounded Love”. She also has “Cupid’s Desire”, “The Marriage That Didn’t Stay in Vegas”, “All Torn Apart”, “Your Secret’s Safe with Me” series.
www.phoenixrayne.com
FB @phoenixrayne
Twitter @hellophoenixx
Snapchat Phoenix Rayne
Instagram PhoenixRayne
Pinterest @thephoenixrayne
Goodreads PhoenixRayne
Phoenix Rayne is the alter ego of a small town girl in Arkansas. She’s an avid reader and enjoys hanging out with her closest girlfriends and dressing up for dinner parties. She released her first book in November of 2013 and has been ecstatic with the incredible backup of her work.
Phoenix Rayne is the author of the “From The From Love to Loathe” series. The first installment of the Contemporary Romance Series is “Heels of Love”, the second is “The Enclave of Jyme”, the third is “Wounded Love”. She also has “Cupid’s Desire”, “The Marriage That Didn’t Stay in Vegas”, “All Torn Apart”, “Your Secret’s Safe with Me” series.
www.phoenixrayne.com
FB @phoenixrayne
Twitter @hellophoenixx
Snapchat Phoenix Rayne
Instagram PhoenixRayne
Pinterest @thephoenixrayne
Goodreads PhoenixRayne
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
September 17, 2013
Thank You to Phoenix Rayne for trusting me with a review of her book! Heels of Love was an interesting read! Cricket is wanting to start her life a new near her bestie! After a sight seeing trip goes completely wrong, she ends up meeting the man of her dreams! Jyme is not like any man she's met before. Her goal is to not get attached, but Jyme jumps in head first and pulls Cricket with him! They have twists and turns along the way, but everyone gets to their happily ever after on their own terms right?!
Overall, I really liked this book. It's a story about overcoming your fears, and protecting those you love by ANY means necessary! There's a lot going on; love, sex, heartbreak, and crime. You will have to keep up because the story does go pretty fast! Cricket's character is independent and she has a lot of sass and style. She's fresh off a broken engagement, as well as a past she's running from. She wants to be settled in her life for once and for all. I connected with her and felt her struggle as she's trying to figure out if she should give Jyme a chance. Jyme's character is dominant! From their first meeting, I knew he would not disappoint in the alpha male role! He's tall, muscular and sexy. His presence cannot be ignored. He comes from a poor family and he's determined to take care of his family!
Cricket and Jyme go through the typical dating habits, they spend a lot of time with each other, have some steamy "fun", but skip the getting to know you part. They only dish on past information when trouble arises! Here's where it gets a little crazy, Jyme's profession as a fisherman is questioned when Cricket has a health scare, and all hell breaks loose! Cricket decides they should cool it. Jyme totally flips out! I have never been afraid that a lead character would hurt his love interest, but I was scared Jyme would turn into a crazy ass stalker! I was a little nervous on where the story would go. I was so thrown off by his behavior! When they reconcile, I'm thrown off by Cricket's reaction to him! I struggled with her forgiving him, but then it all makes sense in the end! Cricket's behavior is a little confusing as well, she wants her space, but is happy playing house with Jyme! At this point it's almost the end of the book, and all hell breaks loose once again! This time, Cricket and Jyme's love is put to the ultimate test, which results in a heartbreaking decision, and a startling revelation about Cricket's past! The ending left me winded, confused, upset, and sad. There will be a book 2 and I plan on seeing what the future holds for Jyme and Cricket!
Overall, I really liked this book. It's a story about overcoming your fears, and protecting those you love by ANY means necessary! There's a lot going on; love, sex, heartbreak, and crime. You will have to keep up because the story does go pretty fast! Cricket's character is independent and she has a lot of sass and style. She's fresh off a broken engagement, as well as a past she's running from. She wants to be settled in her life for once and for all. I connected with her and felt her struggle as she's trying to figure out if she should give Jyme a chance. Jyme's character is dominant! From their first meeting, I knew he would not disappoint in the alpha male role! He's tall, muscular and sexy. His presence cannot be ignored. He comes from a poor family and he's determined to take care of his family!
Cricket and Jyme go through the typical dating habits, they spend a lot of time with each other, have some steamy "fun", but skip the getting to know you part. They only dish on past information when trouble arises! Here's where it gets a little crazy, Jyme's profession as a fisherman is questioned when Cricket has a health scare, and all hell breaks loose! Cricket decides they should cool it. Jyme totally flips out! I have never been afraid that a lead character would hurt his love interest, but I was scared Jyme would turn into a crazy ass stalker! I was a little nervous on where the story would go. I was so thrown off by his behavior! When they reconcile, I'm thrown off by Cricket's reaction to him! I struggled with her forgiving him, but then it all makes sense in the end! Cricket's behavior is a little confusing as well, she wants her space, but is happy playing house with Jyme! At this point it's almost the end of the book, and all hell breaks loose once again! This time, Cricket and Jyme's love is put to the ultimate test, which results in a heartbreaking decision, and a startling revelation about Cricket's past! The ending left me winded, confused, upset, and sad. There will be a book 2 and I plan on seeing what the future holds for Jyme and Cricket!
February 13, 2015
It's when I read books like this that I'm so delighted that I signed up for blog tours. This is an author & a book I've not heard of until I signed up.
I totally loved this book. We are introduced to Cricket just after she flees from a broken engagement. She doesn't believe in love.. It's an easier way of not getting hurt. That is until she meets the alpha male called Jyme. He needs to break down walls with her but he doesn't know of her past. The storyline to this is brilliant. I certainly couldn't predict the twists that the author threw at me.
I read this book in one sitting. It pulled on all my emotions. The ending had me wanting to throw my kindle. Roll on the next book in this series.
I highly recommend this debut novel.
Received in return for an honest review.
I totally loved this book. We are introduced to Cricket just after she flees from a broken engagement. She doesn't believe in love.. It's an easier way of not getting hurt. That is until she meets the alpha male called Jyme. He needs to break down walls with her but he doesn't know of her past. The storyline to this is brilliant. I certainly couldn't predict the twists that the author threw at me.
I read this book in one sitting. It pulled on all my emotions. The ending had me wanting to throw my kindle. Roll on the next book in this series.
I highly recommend this debut novel.
Received in return for an honest review.
September 12, 2013
If you are hungry for a gripping love story, this will fill you up. Cricket and Jyme's love story will have you clutching at the sheets. This book had me sweating and leaning to the edge of my seat. A MUST SECOND READ!!!!!!
March 22, 2014
The book is really fast paced and has a lot of twist and turns and a major revelation about Cricket's past that you won't see coming. The book is maybe just a little bit too fast paced and things happen so fast it's hard to digest one thing before we were off on another major drama.
On the positive side, Cricket has a wonderful down to earth personality and is comfortable in her own skin, and downright hilarious, especially in the first quarter of the book. There were some other rather funny moments in regards to Jyme's "package" that will have either drooling or cringing.
As for the secondary characters, I loved Cricket's friends, did not really care for Jyme's family, although his mother sort of redeemed herself. We will have wait for the second book to find out the resolution for the way things ended in this first installment. There is a bit of a cliffhanger at the end so be prepared for that, and take heart the second book is on it's way!
I think I will settle on a C+/B- on this one mainly due to the rushed feeling I had reading the book and the personality of Jyme bordered on abuse and it made me feel uncomfortable and I don't know if we should trust men that are that intense. However, I am going to keep an open mind and see what happens in the next book before I decide if I want to continue with the series.
On the positive side, Cricket has a wonderful down to earth personality and is comfortable in her own skin, and downright hilarious, especially in the first quarter of the book. There were some other rather funny moments in regards to Jyme's "package" that will have either drooling or cringing.
As for the secondary characters, I loved Cricket's friends, did not really care for Jyme's family, although his mother sort of redeemed herself. We will have wait for the second book to find out the resolution for the way things ended in this first installment. There is a bit of a cliffhanger at the end so be prepared for that, and take heart the second book is on it's way!
I think I will settle on a C+/B- on this one mainly due to the rushed feeling I had reading the book and the personality of Jyme bordered on abuse and it made me feel uncomfortable and I don't know if we should trust men that are that intense. However, I am going to keep an open mind and see what happens in the next book before I decide if I want to continue with the series.
October 12, 2013
An Amazing Debut Book - Fantastic read
Cricket moves to be near her friend Chelle. She's trying to get away from her old life and start new. After taking a wrong turn while driving she get knocks down a mail box and gets the car stuck in the mud up a beaten path. A man come to help get her out, after he gets the car out the mud, she drives off as she panic's thinking he could be a killer or something. She heads to the nearest ranger station and explains to them. They know the guy, it's Lil Samson Jyme- a native American, he's no killer.
Later on Jyme gets her number from the ranger station and calls but she hangs up on him so he calls the next day. They eventually meet up and take things from there. She's not looking for a relationship and has started a new job. He's a gentleman. But the attraction is strong.
Can they both over come the past, and the obstacles that are in their way? They are both hiding secrets and it could threaten everything they are trying to build.
OK girls, this is a MUST read. This book is an amazing Debut book by Phoenix Rayne. It needs to go to the top of your "TBR" list. This is a book featuring a real size woman, at the beginning I laughed so hard at some of the comments Cricket makes about herself, as it was something I would say.
I loved this book, like seriously loved it. It was amazing. I read it in one go. I loved everything about this book. You guys know I don't do spoilers and this one is no different. I cant say too much without giving this book away. All I will say is wow. This had me on the edge of my seat. Phoenix Rayne is an Author to watch out for. I loved Cricket I don't think we've heard all of her story and Jyme really never seen that coming. I loved his mum Mrs JJ.
When it got to the end of the book I gasped very loud. I cant wait for book 2. This one pulls at your emotions.
Cricket moves to be near her friend Chelle. She's trying to get away from her old life and start new. After taking a wrong turn while driving she get knocks down a mail box and gets the car stuck in the mud up a beaten path. A man come to help get her out, after he gets the car out the mud, she drives off as she panic's thinking he could be a killer or something. She heads to the nearest ranger station and explains to them. They know the guy, it's Lil Samson Jyme- a native American, he's no killer.
Later on Jyme gets her number from the ranger station and calls but she hangs up on him so he calls the next day. They eventually meet up and take things from there. She's not looking for a relationship and has started a new job. He's a gentleman. But the attraction is strong.
Can they both over come the past, and the obstacles that are in their way? They are both hiding secrets and it could threaten everything they are trying to build.
OK girls, this is a MUST read. This book is an amazing Debut book by Phoenix Rayne. It needs to go to the top of your "TBR" list. This is a book featuring a real size woman, at the beginning I laughed so hard at some of the comments Cricket makes about herself, as it was something I would say.
I loved this book, like seriously loved it. It was amazing. I read it in one go. I loved everything about this book. You guys know I don't do spoilers and this one is no different. I cant say too much without giving this book away. All I will say is wow. This had me on the edge of my seat. Phoenix Rayne is an Author to watch out for. I loved Cricket I don't think we've heard all of her story and Jyme really never seen that coming. I loved his mum Mrs JJ.
When it got to the end of the book I gasped very loud. I cant wait for book 2. This one pulls at your emotions.
March 27, 2014
I received an advance copy if this book!!! I love the story of Cricket and Jyme!!! It's not the average love story and that's what I love!!! Phoenix is awesome!!!!
September 13, 2013
Very fun.
October 29, 2013
I received a PDF copy of Heels of Love for an honest review.
After Cricket called off the third and final engagement her friend Chelle calls her while she was just driving around trying to decide what she was going to do. She had been trying for a while to get Cricket to move out to the Pacific Northwest. Cricket listen to her talk and finally decided she was coming to live with her. Chelle tells her not to worry about finding a job she’ll have one lined up for her when she got here. So with that Cricket was on her was to the PNW to try and start her live over again and maybe get a fresh start in a new area. The girls hang out for the first day talking and catching up on how each other had been doing. Chelle said she needed to go to bed early because she had to go to work in the morning. Cricket decided to go to bed as well and in the morning she would figure out something to do since she was going to be home alone. She decides to that since she is in the area where her favorite book were written by Ms. Meyers she was going to go visit the area and find some beaches along the way. She didn’t think the water would be cold so she just walked along the cold beach and decided it was time to head home. She stops at station to get some gas and when she goes into the station the man at the counter ask if she was a tourist. Cricket replies yes and no seeing how I just moved to the Pacific Northwest but this my first time in this area. He asked about the areas Cricket hand been and her told her about a beautiful beach about 20 mile up from where they were and it would be a really nice drive. Cricket go for the drive and the scenery was beautiful like the guy had said the beach up there was beyond works for it beauty. Then all the sudden out of nowhere the sky goes gray and it starts raining. So Cricket head back to the rental car and gets inside wet and can’t find the wipers and hits the button to open the top and then finally find the wiper button. It slows up a little so she made her way back down to where she came and somehow she ends up on a Native American Reservations about she almost got hit trying to get out from where she was. Then somehow she got stuck in the mud and could get her can out. This is when she meets the Mud God as she calls him Jyme. Between him and a few of his friend they get her car out of the mud.
Jyme and Cricket end up dating later and everything was going great with them until a misunderstanding at one of her job sites where she was scared by some biker guys. She doesn’t know it but the one guys on the bike is her boyfriend Jyme and this is when it all falls apart. While she was driving home he calls her and is freaking out because he is not she how to tell her what was going on, but the other thing that worried him was Cricket had the tag info for his bike and he didn’t want her to find out from the cops it was him. While she was driving she was getting very upset and she felt the panic attack start she pulled over and thank goodness two girls were there and got an ambulance there to help her. While in the hospital she learns that Jyme was one of the biker as was some of his friends that she had met.
Cricket stops seeing Jyme and she loses weight and it doesn’t look good on here and she goes out one night with the girls and that didn’t go to well either because the girls were upset because Jyme us lost without Cricket. When she left she got into a cab and Jyme slide into the other side and he the changes but she didn’t want him around so at the next light he got out.
I am stopping here with my review. There is tons of more action between Cricket, Jyme and the rest of them in the story. If you haven’t read Heels of Love yet pick it up. I can’t wait for book 2.
After Cricket called off the third and final engagement her friend Chelle calls her while she was just driving around trying to decide what she was going to do. She had been trying for a while to get Cricket to move out to the Pacific Northwest. Cricket listen to her talk and finally decided she was coming to live with her. Chelle tells her not to worry about finding a job she’ll have one lined up for her when she got here. So with that Cricket was on her was to the PNW to try and start her live over again and maybe get a fresh start in a new area. The girls hang out for the first day talking and catching up on how each other had been doing. Chelle said she needed to go to bed early because she had to go to work in the morning. Cricket decided to go to bed as well and in the morning she would figure out something to do since she was going to be home alone. She decides to that since she is in the area where her favorite book were written by Ms. Meyers she was going to go visit the area and find some beaches along the way. She didn’t think the water would be cold so she just walked along the cold beach and decided it was time to head home. She stops at station to get some gas and when she goes into the station the man at the counter ask if she was a tourist. Cricket replies yes and no seeing how I just moved to the Pacific Northwest but this my first time in this area. He asked about the areas Cricket hand been and her told her about a beautiful beach about 20 mile up from where they were and it would be a really nice drive. Cricket go for the drive and the scenery was beautiful like the guy had said the beach up there was beyond works for it beauty. Then all the sudden out of nowhere the sky goes gray and it starts raining. So Cricket head back to the rental car and gets inside wet and can’t find the wipers and hits the button to open the top and then finally find the wiper button. It slows up a little so she made her way back down to where she came and somehow she ends up on a Native American Reservations about she almost got hit trying to get out from where she was. Then somehow she got stuck in the mud and could get her can out. This is when she meets the Mud God as she calls him Jyme. Between him and a few of his friend they get her car out of the mud.
Jyme and Cricket end up dating later and everything was going great with them until a misunderstanding at one of her job sites where she was scared by some biker guys. She doesn’t know it but the one guys on the bike is her boyfriend Jyme and this is when it all falls apart. While she was driving home he calls her and is freaking out because he is not she how to tell her what was going on, but the other thing that worried him was Cricket had the tag info for his bike and he didn’t want her to find out from the cops it was him. While she was driving she was getting very upset and she felt the panic attack start she pulled over and thank goodness two girls were there and got an ambulance there to help her. While in the hospital she learns that Jyme was one of the biker as was some of his friends that she had met.
Cricket stops seeing Jyme and she loses weight and it doesn’t look good on here and she goes out one night with the girls and that didn’t go to well either because the girls were upset because Jyme us lost without Cricket. When she left she got into a cab and Jyme slide into the other side and he the changes but she didn’t want him around so at the next light he got out.
I am stopping here with my review. There is tons of more action between Cricket, Jyme and the rest of them in the story. If you haven’t read Heels of Love yet pick it up. I can’t wait for book 2.
March 23, 2017
It’s not often that I don’t finish a book but it’s been a week and I haven’t even made it half way through so I am admitting defeat here. I could not get into Heels of Love. There were several things that kept me from finishing this book.
First off the point of view. I just couldn’t get into it. I love books told from a 1st-person perspective, but in this case I find her thoughts to be more puzzling and scatter-ish. I kept thinking I was missing something. Maybe if the story was told in a 3rd person perspective as more of an observation POV it would have worked better for me. Second, why, why, why would any woman get and stay in an abusive relationship with an overbearing dude who gave her panic attacks? I won’t go into further details as to not spoil the book for anyone else but frankly, I just can’t stick with a story if the heroine can’t see that for herself. Finally, the pacing of the story. From chapter one, I struggled with the pacing it felt weird and discombobulated. It had no flow that I was able to follow. I knew by the time I hit the end of chapter two it was going to be a struggle for me. Normally, I can find the rhythm easily and if not I just go with the flow but not this time.
I’m sure others will enjoy this story, I however did not.
I received this book from Stephanie's Book Reports in exchange for my honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars – 1.5
First off the point of view. I just couldn’t get into it. I love books told from a 1st-person perspective, but in this case I find her thoughts to be more puzzling and scatter-ish. I kept thinking I was missing something. Maybe if the story was told in a 3rd person perspective as more of an observation POV it would have worked better for me. Second, why, why, why would any woman get and stay in an abusive relationship with an overbearing dude who gave her panic attacks? I won’t go into further details as to not spoil the book for anyone else but frankly, I just can’t stick with a story if the heroine can’t see that for herself. Finally, the pacing of the story. From chapter one, I struggled with the pacing it felt weird and discombobulated. It had no flow that I was able to follow. I knew by the time I hit the end of chapter two it was going to be a struggle for me. Normally, I can find the rhythm easily and if not I just go with the flow but not this time.
I’m sure others will enjoy this story, I however did not.
I received this book from Stephanie's Book Reports in exchange for my honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.
Stars – 1.5
December 8, 2015
So short and sweet.. I loved this book.. actually enjoyed it quite a bit.
Things I liked:
Jyme- I would call him a sensitive alpha.. sounds odd yes but if you decide to read about him I think you would understand. He almost got that Alpha part removed but I can see it come out something fierce and I am hoping to read more of that in this next book. When I first heard Jyme's description I thought Jason Momoa.. perfect fit in my mind.
Cricket- Hmm I will say I am warming up to her character, and because we only got so much of her back story (until the end we find out a lot more) it was a little odd to have this grown woman with these issues and sometimes she would act a little like someone in their 20's with all the running but as the book progresses I slowly started to understand why she has some of the "issues" (Keeping it spoiler free) and things start to click into place.
Oh and cricket is not a size 2! Hot damn you have no clue how sick I get of reading about endless flat stomach, no stretch marks, perfect body characters. She is a damn 18 and LOVING it!
Things I dislike:
Referring to a penis as a anaconda.. Yea cute at first but after a while is like.. just call is a penis, dick, cock etc etc etc. and A vagina a juice box... I will never book at juice pouches the same.
So all in all enjoyed the book, and off to read part too.
Signing off.. "My anaconda don't want none unless you got buns hun"
Things I liked:
Jyme- I would call him a sensitive alpha.. sounds odd yes but if you decide to read about him I think you would understand. He almost got that Alpha part removed but I can see it come out something fierce and I am hoping to read more of that in this next book. When I first heard Jyme's description I thought Jason Momoa.. perfect fit in my mind.
Cricket- Hmm I will say I am warming up to her character, and because we only got so much of her back story (until the end we find out a lot more) it was a little odd to have this grown woman with these issues and sometimes she would act a little like someone in their 20's with all the running but as the book progresses I slowly started to understand why she has some of the "issues" (Keeping it spoiler free) and things start to click into place.
Oh and cricket is not a size 2! Hot damn you have no clue how sick I get of reading about endless flat stomach, no stretch marks, perfect body characters. She is a damn 18 and LOVING it!
Things I dislike:
Referring to a penis as a anaconda.. Yea cute at first but after a while is like.. just call is a penis, dick, cock etc etc etc. and A vagina a juice box... I will never book at juice pouches the same.
So all in all enjoyed the book, and off to read part too.
Signing off.. "My anaconda don't want none unless you got buns hun"
November 10, 2013
Heels of Love by Phoenix Rayne
Review by: Kayla
Synopsis: When Cricket Hooper moves to Seattle she only has a couple of goals find a job and an apartment near her friend Chelle, and basically to live a quiet, normal life. However, it isn't long before life becomes far from normal. When a mysterious man helps get her car out of the mud after she makes a wrong turn, she finds herself in his thrall. He wines and dines her, quite literally, and before Cricket can stop it, things are steamy and serious very serious.
Cricket is thrown aback when Jyme turns out to be more than a simple fisherman, but then she isn't telling all of her story either.
Review: I was given a copy of Heels of Love by Ashley’s Reading bliss for an honest review. I thought this book was very well written and it was fast paced and a great read. I loved the story and the way it flowed. I loved that it was based in Seattle. Isn’t a normal life what everyone wants? I don’t think that anyone can live a normal life and Cricket wants a quiet, normal life but she can’t seem to get it. There is some steamy romance, and the hardships of love in this book. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars!
Review by: Kayla
Synopsis: When Cricket Hooper moves to Seattle she only has a couple of goals find a job and an apartment near her friend Chelle, and basically to live a quiet, normal life. However, it isn't long before life becomes far from normal. When a mysterious man helps get her car out of the mud after she makes a wrong turn, she finds herself in his thrall. He wines and dines her, quite literally, and before Cricket can stop it, things are steamy and serious very serious.
Cricket is thrown aback when Jyme turns out to be more than a simple fisherman, but then she isn't telling all of her story either.
Review: I was given a copy of Heels of Love by Ashley’s Reading bliss for an honest review. I thought this book was very well written and it was fast paced and a great read. I loved the story and the way it flowed. I loved that it was based in Seattle. Isn’t a normal life what everyone wants? I don’t think that anyone can live a normal life and Cricket wants a quiet, normal life but she can’t seem to get it. There is some steamy romance, and the hardships of love in this book. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars!
July 14, 2014
Heels of Love was a great, fast paced read.
I loved the character of Cricket. I felt she had a lot of things that she kept hidden inside. She was a girl who so badly wanted to let people in, yet feared people's reaction if they were to find out who she really was.
I fell hard for Jyme. He's sexy, tall and dark. YUMMY. I thought Jyme was a sweet mysterious mix. He made me smile, laugh, cry, and sometimes just got me mad.
When the two start their journey together, it's one that will consume you.
This story takes you places you'll never expect, which was part of the reason why I liked it so much.
Heels of Love is a book you won't be able to put down. I read it in one sitting, not moving from where I was until I read the very last word.
Heels of Love definitely leaves you with unanswered questions, but I was very happy to see that Phoenix Rayne wrote Wounded Love, the second book in the trilogy.
Overall, Heels of Love was a great 4 star read for me.
I can't wait to get my hands on Wounded Love, and get the rest of Cricket and Jyme's story!
March 15, 2015
**3.5 Stilettos** In being honest, I had a little trouble getting into this book at first. It was very well written but I just had some trouble wrapping my head around the story in the beginning. When the story kicks into high gear, oh my does it get going. Though I was a little confused by some aspects of the story, overall I thought it was a good read. The character of Cricket was a little too immature for my taste but she I attributed that to some of the things that she endured within the story. I know allot of other reviews have portrayed Jyme controlling and abusive, however I don’t completely agree with that assessment. Controlling yes, however some of the things that he did within the book were no worse than some things that I have read in other books. Overall, I really liked the premise of the story and see so much potential for growth in the main characters. I am definitely interested in seeing what happens in the next book.
October 21, 2013
I admit it: I'm an eclectic reader and I enjoy a good romance once in a while. Some days, I just need a little brain candy. Unfortunately, Heels of Love did not qualify as a good romance. Phoenix Rayne created semi-likable characters who jump into lust and love unbelievably quickly. To make matters worse, I wanted to smack Cricket, the female protagonist, upside the head for not realizing she'd jumped into an abusive relationship with an overbearing dude who gave her panic attacks. Not a good thing, no matter how sexy and well-hung he was. The final straw for me, however, was that the book desperately needed a good copy editor. It was rife with poor writing, misspellings, and grammatical errors. Ugh. I won't be looking up the sequel.
December 4, 2013
I really like this story. In the beginning of the book Cricket has just broken off her third and final engagement and moved to the Pacific Northwest, where her friend Chelle lives. In her first day of sight seeing she gets lost and stuck in mud on a Native American Reservation. There she meets Jyme. Cricket and Jyme end up in a relationship.
Both Cricket and Jyme are great characters. They both have a little bit of mystery to them. We still don't get Cricket's whole story of her past. Jyme says he has told Cricket everything about himself but I think he still has some secrets.
Last 1/4 of the book took a turn I didn't except. The ending is very emotionally and it leaves you wanting more. I can't wait for the second book to come out.
Both Cricket and Jyme are great characters. They both have a little bit of mystery to them. We still don't get Cricket's whole story of her past. Jyme says he has told Cricket everything about himself but I think he still has some secrets.
Last 1/4 of the book took a turn I didn't except. The ending is very emotionally and it leaves you wanting more. I can't wait for the second book to come out.
September 6, 2016
*I Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
All I can say is WOW!!! Cricket I love her! The book was a real page turner and a fast read. I couldn't help but fall for the way Jyme in how he tried to keep Cricket safe. Cricket always ran from her past and that is how she ended up with Chelle her best friend. She met Jyme one day when she was out driving to enjoy the scenery before she got settled in her new job and life. Twists and turns not knowing what was going to happen next. I can't wait to read more and hope there is more of Cricket,Jyme and the rest of the crew.
All I can say is WOW!!! Cricket I love her! The book was a real page turner and a fast read. I couldn't help but fall for the way Jyme in how he tried to keep Cricket safe. Cricket always ran from her past and that is how she ended up with Chelle her best friend. She met Jyme one day when she was out driving to enjoy the scenery before she got settled in her new job and life. Twists and turns not knowing what was going to happen next. I can't wait to read more and hope there is more of Cricket,Jyme and the rest of the crew.
September 26, 2013
This was a great read~ I enjoyed every word of the book. The interaction between the characters Cricket and Jyme was off the chain and intense; great chemistry. The plot in on point and the story flows very well. I give this 5 stars plus some because it was simply amazing. I look forward to reading more from this author. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book and you should add it to your collection as soon as possible. Great work Phoenix Rayne, true talent!!!!
October 14, 2013
This story has a host of characters and gives each of them meaning as they are tied into the storyline. Cricket’s journey isn’t a fairy tale filled with just gripping romance and some of pit falls and hardships of love and life… This is a book full of fast paced drama, steamy romance heighted emotions and so much more.. It’s a page turner; one you won’t want to put down. I really enjoyed the book. Can't wait for others from this author.
May 15, 2014
I enjoyed this story. This is a hard-core love/hate story. The characters are strong. Cricket is a strong woman and Jyme a strong man. To see these two characters fall in love and clash with the way they show/express that love is interesting. They spend a good part of the book having bad timing with each other.
Warning this book is very spicy! It has very adult scenes but is a good story in between those scenes.
This is the 1st book in a series. I think the series is really interesting.
Warning this book is very spicy! It has very adult scenes but is a good story in between those scenes.
This is the 1st book in a series. I think the series is really interesting.
September 17, 2014
**I received a PDF copy of Heels of Love by the author for an honest review.**
The first few chapters, I just couldn't get into it. It all felt way too rushed. But half way through...I just had to finish. I wanted to slap the shit outta' Cricket at times. Jyme...OMG. Total alpha male and a bit of a controling dick! HA. But damn, he's just HOT. Can't wait to see what happens next in book two!!
The first few chapters, I just couldn't get into it. It all felt way too rushed. But half way through...I just had to finish. I wanted to slap the shit outta' Cricket at times. Jyme...OMG. Total alpha male and a bit of a controling dick! HA. But damn, he's just HOT. Can't wait to see what happens next in book two!!
October 14, 2013
Excellent book! I thoroughly enjoyed this love story. Very well written. It also gave the reader a glimpse of the Native American culture and their beliefs. You don't normally see this culture touched on within the urban fiction genre and I liked that she incorporated them. I can't wait for the follow-up novel.
December 12, 2013
I was given this book by author for honest review. Cricket, a Southerner, needs to get away from her life so moves to Seattle to be near her best friend. Jyme , a Native American, grew up doing what needed to be done to take care of his family. The explosions when they met had me giggling. Character descriptions are image worthy to the extreme and I can’t wait for book 2 after that ending.
October 18, 2013
I loved this book. I finished it four hours after buying it for my kindle. I wasn't going to sleep until I finished this book. I even cried at the end. I really hope Jyme will go and save Cricket. I am ready for part two to come out.
September 8, 2016
I finished it in 2 days...Excellent read!
July 22, 2019
She's do anything for her "Mud God"
Eugenia "Cricket" Hooper never thought she could open up her heart to anyone until she was rescued by Jamison "Jyme" Samson from a mud hole after a rain on the Reservation. He became a little obsessed with her I believe because of the prediction that his grandmother told him. Cricket, ever so guarded, was used to running to keep from opening up her heart to anyone. She had secrets that she was not going to share with anyone. But little did she know that Jyme was hiding things too. Just when things seem to be working out for the better for the couple, Cricket had to reach back into her old lifestyle to save the love of her life and his friends. She would sacrifice everything for her Mud God, and she did. But I have a feeling that Jyme will not let her go, no matter what. When he loves, he loves hard and completely. It will be interesting to see how this story turns out. I have a feeling it will be a little dark from here. All she has now are her memories and her ring.
Eugenia "Cricket" Hooper never thought she could open up her heart to anyone until she was rescued by Jamison "Jyme" Samson from a mud hole after a rain on the Reservation. He became a little obsessed with her I believe because of the prediction that his grandmother told him. Cricket, ever so guarded, was used to running to keep from opening up her heart to anyone. She had secrets that she was not going to share with anyone. But little did she know that Jyme was hiding things too. Just when things seem to be working out for the better for the couple, Cricket had to reach back into her old lifestyle to save the love of her life and his friends. She would sacrifice everything for her Mud God, and she did. But I have a feeling that Jyme will not let her go, no matter what. When he loves, he loves hard and completely. It will be interesting to see how this story turns out. I have a feeling it will be a little dark from here. All she has now are her memories and her ring.
July 29, 2020
Heels of Love is the first part of the saga of Cricket and Jyme. They are both mysterious characters both with a history and clearly different expectations out of life. It was an interesting read, despite having to sieve through the numerous errors. My issue was really in how Jyme was depicted and his intensity. There were a number of red flags which reflected levels of toxicity in their relationship. I know a lot books have alpha males, and many women like these characters. I was just concerned that none of the real issues that initially separated this couple were tackled - there wasn't really any growth in their characters. All the issues were dismissed with time and because they wanted to be together and that is really an unhealthy message to send to reviewers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2021
3.5 Stars
April 28, 2014
Eugenia (Cricket) Hooper has just left her third fiancé at the altar. She has never lived in the Pacific Northwest before so when her best friend offers her a place to stay and a job she can’t refuse. Cricket is used to running and relocating, she doesn’t stay in one place for very long. Cricket has a past she’d rather forget. Once she arrives in Seattle she wants to get to know her new home and decides to take a drive. A sudden storm blinds her and she becomes lost and stuck in the mud on private property. She has seen one too many horror movies so when she sees a tall, dark, handsome man she assumes the worst, her life is over!
Jamison (Jyme) Samson has only been with one woman in all his life and she tore his heart out and smashed it to bits last year. He’s built like an Adonis but he has inherited the family trait and Elle just couldn’t handle it and now no other woman on the reservation will look at him. Grandma assures him there is someone out there for him, after all his grandfather and father both found women who could get past the family trait. She knows that his love will come from a far off land and will be everything he needs. But Jyme too has secrets; will he be able to trust a woman again? Can he let her know about his life, will his mother ever accept a stranger?
To be honest, I had a hard time getting into this book in the beginning. Despite that fact I couldn’t put the book down. The plot intrigued me, what where these two hiding? Would Cricket be able to get past the family trait, how many women could? This story had so many twists and turns and by the end I sat there thinking “I did not see that coming!” and the ending had me crying “NOOOOO”. I also love that the main character is a confidant size 18 woman. So many women are not twigs and finding a book that portrays the large size well is a real treat. Phoenix Rayne defiantly has a gift for unusual plots and I see her doing very well. This book is not your typical love story and I recommend it to those who love romance. I give Heels of Love 4 stars.
Jamison (Jyme) Samson has only been with one woman in all his life and she tore his heart out and smashed it to bits last year. He’s built like an Adonis but he has inherited the family trait and Elle just couldn’t handle it and now no other woman on the reservation will look at him. Grandma assures him there is someone out there for him, after all his grandfather and father both found women who could get past the family trait. She knows that his love will come from a far off land and will be everything he needs. But Jyme too has secrets; will he be able to trust a woman again? Can he let her know about his life, will his mother ever accept a stranger?
To be honest, I had a hard time getting into this book in the beginning. Despite that fact I couldn’t put the book down. The plot intrigued me, what where these two hiding? Would Cricket be able to get past the family trait, how many women could? This story had so many twists and turns and by the end I sat there thinking “I did not see that coming!” and the ending had me crying “NOOOOO”. I also love that the main character is a confidant size 18 woman. So many women are not twigs and finding a book that portrays the large size well is a real treat. Phoenix Rayne defiantly has a gift for unusual plots and I see her doing very well. This book is not your typical love story and I recommend it to those who love romance. I give Heels of Love 4 stars.
February 8, 2014
This book is definitely a page turner and will keep you guessing about what will happen next. There were some pretty hot scenes in this book. There were parts that I loved and there were things that I did not care for at times.
Cricket does not fall in love. She does not allow herself to. When she goes to live near Chelle she is not expecting to find love. That all starts to change when she meets Jyme. She has no chance. Their first meeting did not go so well, but he finds ways to make it up to her. What woman would not fall for a man like Jyme.
Then Cricket starts to see a different side to Jyme and when the panic attacks start she starts to wonder is she is on the right path with him. Then she finds out that Jyme is more than he says he is. She has not told him her past but her past is not putting him in possible danger. A certain incident makes her put their relationship in perspective and she ends things which leads to a pretty intense hospital scene.
Jyme does not give up though and Cricket decides to give him another chance but things start to get scary for Cricket due to things that Jyme has going on. His enemies feel she makes the perfect target to mess with to get to him.
I gave this book 5 stars and would definitely recommend reading it... There are some pretty intense scenes. Some steamy scenes, some funny and some that make you want to smack someone. Lol. It really is a book that keeps your interest because you always want to know what happens next. Once Cricket meets Jyme there is never a dull moment. I am looking forward to reading book two. This is one of those books that once I started reading it I didn’t want to put it down.
~Samantha
Cricket does not fall in love. She does not allow herself to. When she goes to live near Chelle she is not expecting to find love. That all starts to change when she meets Jyme. She has no chance. Their first meeting did not go so well, but he finds ways to make it up to her. What woman would not fall for a man like Jyme.
Then Cricket starts to see a different side to Jyme and when the panic attacks start she starts to wonder is she is on the right path with him. Then she finds out that Jyme is more than he says he is. She has not told him her past but her past is not putting him in possible danger. A certain incident makes her put their relationship in perspective and she ends things which leads to a pretty intense hospital scene.
Jyme does not give up though and Cricket decides to give him another chance but things start to get scary for Cricket due to things that Jyme has going on. His enemies feel she makes the perfect target to mess with to get to him.
I gave this book 5 stars and would definitely recommend reading it... There are some pretty intense scenes. Some steamy scenes, some funny and some that make you want to smack someone. Lol. It really is a book that keeps your interest because you always want to know what happens next. Once Cricket meets Jyme there is never a dull moment. I am looking forward to reading book two. This is one of those books that once I started reading it I didn’t want to put it down.
~Samantha
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