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Endangered Hearts #1
Endangered Hearts
Emilia Ward is being watched.
And it isn’t just by her mother’s creep of a boyfriend or one of her many employers. Instead, she is certain it something else—someone else. However, in a life with college classes and alcoholic mother to look after, Emilia doesn’t have time to explore her suspicions. She would much rather think about her new job at Iram Manor, and more importantly—its mysterious and alluring owner.
After a lifetime of isolation and trapped in a disfigured body Kasper Zafar thought he knew pain. Confining himself to his work as an architect and the love of his music, he never expects the beautiful Emilia Ward to enter his life. Young and naive, his new housekeeper does not flinch at the sight of him, and is even so bold as to call him her friend.
Determined to teach her in all worldly things, the opposites grow closer and the role of student and teacher interchange. Yet Emilia’s life outside the manor is not a happy one, and when Kasper’s attempt to watch over her fails, both will discover than love may be the most painful thing of all.
And it isn’t just by her mother’s creep of a boyfriend or one of her many employers. Instead, she is certain it something else—someone else. However, in a life with college classes and alcoholic mother to look after, Emilia doesn’t have time to explore her suspicions. She would much rather think about her new job at Iram Manor, and more importantly—its mysterious and alluring owner.
After a lifetime of isolation and trapped in a disfigured body Kasper Zafar thought he knew pain. Confining himself to his work as an architect and the love of his music, he never expects the beautiful Emilia Ward to enter his life. Young and naive, his new housekeeper does not flinch at the sight of him, and is even so bold as to call him her friend.
Determined to teach her in all worldly things, the opposites grow closer and the role of student and teacher interchange. Yet Emilia’s life outside the manor is not a happy one, and when Kasper’s attempt to watch over her fails, both will discover than love may be the most painful thing of all.
279 pages, ebook
First published February 20, 2014
21 people are currently reading
1191 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
March 1, 2014
It was really nice to read a romance with an interracial couple that wasn't based completely on insta-love. I also loved how this romance wasn't all fluff (although there was lots of that too) and had a good combination of darker themes like voyeurism and dysfunctional families.
I'd recommend this one for lovers of C.J. Roberts and Sylvia Day.
I'd recommend this one for lovers of C.J. Roberts and Sylvia Day.
March 18, 2014
A modern day beauty and the beast, Endangered Hearts is a sexy little read with loveable characters and a classic Gothic setting. I recommend it for anyone who likes a good new adult/erotica crossover or lovers of angsty romances.
November 13, 2015
Reviewed @ Confessions From Romaholics
Review copy kindly provided by publisher in exchange for a honest review
Endangered Hearts is the first book in a trilogy and is a modern retelling of the story Beauty and the Beast. I couldn’t put my finger on this book when I first started thinking it was déjà vu as I went along trying to figure when I read the book before but when I finally got to meeting Kasper. I knew I was in for a treat.
The story does follow the Beauty and Beast fairy tale well with a modern and updated tone for this story. Our heroine Emelia, isn’t a book loving woman. She a smart but naive woman who is studying pre veterinarian living with her alcoholic mother and her loser of a boyfriend trying to keep their family above water.
Every spare moment is spent spending working as a tutor and cleaner and she wants the job of the mysterious man who has scared off every cleaner working his house unaware of the pain and self loathing.
Our beast so to speak Kasper Zaher is a man who is gifted but scared. Drugging himself to forget and, he uses his staff to run a tight ship expecting his cleaners to be the same. He knows that he is ugly so to speak because of what happened to him and is expecting everyone to treat him that way. Never expecting a woman like Emilia to worm her way into his life and heart and not be frightened by him or his behaviour.
However will Emilia survive as she becoming infatuated with a man that she knows nothing about and the same vise verse which can only lead to trouble….
I want to say this book is Trouble with a capital T because this book stays to true to the fairy tale and there further books in the series but I won’t as it only adds to the magic of this book. If there was anything wrong with this book ,we never discover the reason for Kasper disfigurement and the flow between the POV of views is a bit murky. It need headings so we could see as otherwise this is a beautiful book.
There isn’t a lot of romance in this book but I was hooked regardless about the tension and the banter as this is only the first part of their story and I love the first book in the series. The series seems well planned as Kasper and Emilia both need to grow as individuals before they become a couple. This book does end on a happy note never the less but you want more in the end. I’m definitely hooked and by the end I wanted more and will definitely be reading the others later today!
4.5 couples
For more of my reviews, visit Confessions From Romaholics.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
Review copy kindly provided by publisher in exchange for a honest review
Endangered Hearts is the first book in a trilogy and is a modern retelling of the story Beauty and the Beast. I couldn’t put my finger on this book when I first started thinking it was déjà vu as I went along trying to figure when I read the book before but when I finally got to meeting Kasper. I knew I was in for a treat.
The story does follow the Beauty and Beast fairy tale well with a modern and updated tone for this story. Our heroine Emelia, isn’t a book loving woman. She a smart but naive woman who is studying pre veterinarian living with her alcoholic mother and her loser of a boyfriend trying to keep their family above water.
Every spare moment is spent spending working as a tutor and cleaner and she wants the job of the mysterious man who has scared off every cleaner working his house unaware of the pain and self loathing.
Our beast so to speak Kasper Zaher is a man who is gifted but scared. Drugging himself to forget and, he uses his staff to run a tight ship expecting his cleaners to be the same. He knows that he is ugly so to speak because of what happened to him and is expecting everyone to treat him that way. Never expecting a woman like Emilia to worm her way into his life and heart and not be frightened by him or his behaviour.
However will Emilia survive as she becoming infatuated with a man that she knows nothing about and the same vise verse which can only lead to trouble….
I want to say this book is Trouble with a capital T because this book stays to true to the fairy tale and there further books in the series but I won’t as it only adds to the magic of this book. If there was anything wrong with this book ,we never discover the reason for Kasper disfigurement and the flow between the POV of views is a bit murky. It need headings so we could see as otherwise this is a beautiful book.
There isn’t a lot of romance in this book but I was hooked regardless about the tension and the banter as this is only the first part of their story and I love the first book in the series. The series seems well planned as Kasper and Emilia both need to grow as individuals before they become a couple. This book does end on a happy note never the less but you want more in the end. I’m definitely hooked and by the end I wanted more and will definitely be reading the others later today!
4.5 couples
For more of my reviews, visit Confessions From Romaholics.And drop by the blog's Facebook page
dnf
January 16, 2015This could have been great, a modern day Beauty and the Beast re-telling, since I love re-tellings so much and Beauty and the Beast is my favorite fairy tale ever, but I did not like this book at all. I couldn't relate to the characters, they were terribly obnoxious and irritating, although I'm not exactly sure why because I can't pin point particularly.
I can't explain further because I only got to 44% of the book, only that it just wasn't my cup of tea.
I can't explain further because I only got to 44% of the book, only that it just wasn't my cup of tea.
February 28, 2014
This read featured a really hot employer/employee relationship that I really got into! Kasper and Emilia's relationship was a little messed up, but I liked how romantic it stayed while being so dark. Definitely buying a paperback copy for my shelf. :)
May 16, 2014
A wonderful beauty and the beast/phantom of the opera crossover with just the right amount of sexual tension. I already bought the next book in the series and can't wait to get it started.
August 18, 2014
It's a sweet and elegant blend of several stories I love. The pretty woman who changes the life of a scarred man as in Beauty and the Beast. The highly talented but slightly mad man who hides behind a mask as in Phantom of the Opera. The witty conversation between a clever, undeterred woman and a moody, aloof man as in Jane Eyre.
Those are aspects I really enjoyed in this novel, as well as the sometimes haunting quality of the writing style.
Of course, it's not absent of a negative side, at least to me. At the start, it dragged a little too long. It seemed that it was slow-paced and quite descriptive to make it a big uneventful. However, I persevered and found myself liking this romantic journey into the lives of two damaged, lonely souls so in need of love.
Emilia cleans houses for a living. She's studying to become a veterinarian and juggling a delicate situation at home. She's independent, strong and has a sunny disposition. Maybe enough to stand up to the owner of an eerie manor. There is a clash between Kasper's dramatic personality and Emilia's resigned but not easily disturbed attitude. Can they heal each other's wounds or is it too late to change anything?
It's not only a romance. It's actually an encounter of two people who are desperately isolated in their unique ways. Through neglect and lack of affection, they both develop an independence fraught with sadness. Little by little, they come closer to each other. I found it endearing how they become curious about the other so Emilia googles her new employer while the angry man has her investigated. Their lives have been difficult and that reflects on how little they think they deserve to be loved, cherished, respected. All this is very well portrayed in the writing.
I really liked how unusual their falling in love is. He fights it, she never recoils. Their dialogues, their banters, are truly warm and funny. Even though the ending is far from what I expected, there is some kind of poetic liberation in it that actually matches the essence of their personalities and the innate quality of what love really means.
A FAVOURITE QUOTE
Emilia disliked compliments. They gave her imaginary standards to hold herself up to in the future and irrational fears of disappointing those who had given them.
CHEEKY CATEGORY
It's sensual but subtle. Nothing graphic.
First reviewed on Literaria sede-literaria.blogspot.com.
Those are aspects I really enjoyed in this novel, as well as the sometimes haunting quality of the writing style.
Of course, it's not absent of a negative side, at least to me. At the start, it dragged a little too long. It seemed that it was slow-paced and quite descriptive to make it a big uneventful. However, I persevered and found myself liking this romantic journey into the lives of two damaged, lonely souls so in need of love.
Emilia cleans houses for a living. She's studying to become a veterinarian and juggling a delicate situation at home. She's independent, strong and has a sunny disposition. Maybe enough to stand up to the owner of an eerie manor. There is a clash between Kasper's dramatic personality and Emilia's resigned but not easily disturbed attitude. Can they heal each other's wounds or is it too late to change anything?
It's not only a romance. It's actually an encounter of two people who are desperately isolated in their unique ways. Through neglect and lack of affection, they both develop an independence fraught with sadness. Little by little, they come closer to each other. I found it endearing how they become curious about the other so Emilia googles her new employer while the angry man has her investigated. Their lives have been difficult and that reflects on how little they think they deserve to be loved, cherished, respected. All this is very well portrayed in the writing.
I really liked how unusual their falling in love is. He fights it, she never recoils. Their dialogues, their banters, are truly warm and funny. Even though the ending is far from what I expected, there is some kind of poetic liberation in it that actually matches the essence of their personalities and the innate quality of what love really means.
A FAVOURITE QUOTE
Emilia disliked compliments. They gave her imaginary standards to hold herself up to in the future and irrational fears of disappointing those who had given them.
CHEEKY CATEGORY
It's sensual but subtle. Nothing graphic.
First reviewed on Literaria sede-literaria.blogspot.com.
February 19, 2015
I was very conflicted about this book. It's a bad sign if I have to distract myself halfway through a book to prevent myself from getting too worked up, and sadly I had to do that several times through this book. The premise is very nice, the beginning of the book was great, but... I felt that the last half of the book was not necessarily rushed, but lacking in detail, or emotional development, or something.
And then on top of it all, the book ends in a cliffhanger. Do they get together? Do they not? Who knows?
And then on top of it all, the book ends in a cliffhanger. Do they get together? Do they not? Who knows?
October 1, 2016
I absolutely loved Amanda Lance's novels Wanted and Convicted, but this one let me down a little. It is a story based on the fairy tale Beauty and the Beast. Beauty, named Emilia in this book, was a very naïve college student, hired as a housecleaner, who went to work for a horribly disfigured "Beast" who owned a large, castle like mansion in Massachusetts. The "Beast's" purpose in life seemed to be to make everyone around him as miserable as he was. I think we all know the story.
What didn't work for me was Emilia being so naïve, so innocent, and yes, dare I say, immature, that when the relationship developed I truly didn't think she was ready for it. And, lo and behold, she wasn't . I didn't feel the deep love, understanding and commitment between Emilia and Kasper that was needed to make this fairy tale work.
I applaud Ms. Lance for taking this story on and I look forward to her future novels, especially Charlie's POV.
What didn't work for me was Emilia being so naïve, so innocent, and yes, dare I say, immature, that when the relationship developed I truly didn't think she was ready for it. And, lo and behold, she wasn't . I didn't feel the deep love, understanding and commitment between Emilia and Kasper that was needed to make this fairy tale work.
I applaud Ms. Lance for taking this story on and I look forward to her future novels, especially Charlie's POV.
March 11, 2014
Okay I have to say that I love the story of beauty and the beast. The modern versions of this story get better and better with each telling and Amanda Lance does this story justice.
Can you imagine being scarred and disfigured to the point of not being able to go out? Can you imagine spending your life locked up in a house because you don't want to go out? Well welcome to Kasper's world. He knows he is ugly and he knows people can be cruel so he stays in his house and lives his life. He is the elusive millionaire that everyone would love to see but he keeps to himself and makes sure no one sees him by wearing a mask and gloves. Kas lives in this mansion and needs a housekeeper so he hires Emilia who is a college student.
At first Emilia is not sure what to make of Kas because he wears a mask and gloves. So she stays quiet but as time goes on she befriends him and he slowly opens up to her. Emilia begins to show Kas that he can have a life outside of his house if he just lets himself open up and have fun. All work and no play is boring. Soon Emilia and Kasper are doing things together and the two realize they have a great chemistry together. But can Kas insecurities ruin it for them? Or will he let love in?
Can you imagine being scarred and disfigured to the point of not being able to go out? Can you imagine spending your life locked up in a house because you don't want to go out? Well welcome to Kasper's world. He knows he is ugly and he knows people can be cruel so he stays in his house and lives his life. He is the elusive millionaire that everyone would love to see but he keeps to himself and makes sure no one sees him by wearing a mask and gloves. Kas lives in this mansion and needs a housekeeper so he hires Emilia who is a college student.
At first Emilia is not sure what to make of Kas because he wears a mask and gloves. So she stays quiet but as time goes on she befriends him and he slowly opens up to her. Emilia begins to show Kas that he can have a life outside of his house if he just lets himself open up and have fun. All work and no play is boring. Soon Emilia and Kasper are doing things together and the two realize they have a great chemistry together. But can Kas insecurities ruin it for them? Or will he let love in?
February 21, 2014
Once I read the excerpt, I was extremely thrilled to read an ARC copy of Endangered Hearts…between the drama, tears, and romance I was hooked. Endangered Hearts starts out as a contemporary beauty and the beast story (hot girl + damaged guy=love story) But as the story progressed Kasper and Emilia’s relationship went above and beyond the formula. I ended up liking them both as individuals and as a couple and rooted for them on every page.
Overall, a great spin on an old classic. I wish it had been longer, but it is the first in a series so I guess I just have to be patient for the next one.
Side note: This was a great cross between new adult and erotica, but if you’re looking for a “squeaky clean” read this isn’t for you.
Overall, a great spin on an old classic. I wish it had been longer, but it is the first in a series so I guess I just have to be patient for the next one.
Side note: This was a great cross between new adult and erotica, but if you’re looking for a “squeaky clean” read this isn’t for you.
February 25, 2014
This was a hot little read with great characters and lots of sweet moments. I'm already looking forward to more in the series.
Want to read
February 23, 2014This does sound interesting but I hope it is written a whole lot better than this blurb. All of the typos worry me.
March 7, 2014
This was the best book I have read in a while. I couldn't put it down even when I tried. It's the first book I have read where the people were not perfect based on looks. I love it.
February 17, 2018
I struggled to get through this. Didn't like Kasper at all. And how can a chandelier on a floor where hardly anybody apart from the cleaninglady ever comes need that much cleaning
August 22, 2015
***THIS REVIEW HAS SPOILERS***
I liked this book right off the bat. The writing style was great, I loved the characters, and the romance was sweet- if a bit angsty at times.
I loved the slow progression from friends to lovers that Kasper and Emilia had. I loved that Emilia legitimately thought he was beautiful under that mask- the mask being some strange rich people quirk of his and when she realized it wasn't, that his face was truly fucked up. She didn't brush it off. She honestly was shocked by it and ran. A completely logical reaction. But one that was followed by a rather mature one: she went back to apologize. Not for his face or for what happened to him but for invading his space and misusing his trust. I liked that.
Emilia was a mature, if young and inexperienced, woman which I was happy for. I didn't think an immature person would have appealed to a character like Kasper and their interactions together were realistic and sweet (if, like i said before, a bt angsty sometimes).
Kasper was your typical wounded hero but not only is he REALLY NOT PRETTY AT ALL, he never was, if my understanding is correct. It's always good to take a break from the prettier than god heroes and Kasper is a great example why. He may have been surly and had a bit of a temper but he honestly wanted to be close to someone to give and gain affection, he just didn't trust that anyone would WANT him. He'd probably never had someone want to hold him or tell him they cared. So his attitude and misgivings in trusting Emilia's affections weren't crass or rude like most "wounded hero" archetypes but understandable and justified.
The side characters were great. They each had their own personalities and motives, they each felt like a real person. They weren't merely stick figures in the background but characters in a story that gave depth to it.
The only thing that brought me from giving this the 5 stars i wanted to give it was some of the actions of the hero. He's a bit of a stalker and for that, it just, no. Sorry. I don't support that in any shape or form. I can understand a background check but going so far as to follow them home and do things for them like scrap ice off their windshield is freaky. I loved Kasper but I think he went to far in that (even if it did contribute to saving the heroine towards the end).
I liked this book right off the bat. The writing style was great, I loved the characters, and the romance was sweet- if a bit angsty at times.
I loved the slow progression from friends to lovers that Kasper and Emilia had. I loved that Emilia legitimately thought he was beautiful under that mask- the mask being some strange rich people quirk of his and when she realized it wasn't, that his face was truly fucked up. She didn't brush it off. She honestly was shocked by it and ran. A completely logical reaction. But one that was followed by a rather mature one: she went back to apologize. Not for his face or for what happened to him but for invading his space and misusing his trust. I liked that.
Emilia was a mature, if young and inexperienced, woman which I was happy for. I didn't think an immature person would have appealed to a character like Kasper and their interactions together were realistic and sweet (if, like i said before, a bt angsty sometimes).
Kasper was your typical wounded hero but not only is he REALLY NOT PRETTY AT ALL, he never was, if my understanding is correct. It's always good to take a break from the prettier than god heroes and Kasper is a great example why. He may have been surly and had a bit of a temper but he honestly wanted to be close to someone to give and gain affection, he just didn't trust that anyone would WANT him. He'd probably never had someone want to hold him or tell him they cared. So his attitude and misgivings in trusting Emilia's affections weren't crass or rude like most "wounded hero" archetypes but understandable and justified.
The side characters were great. They each had their own personalities and motives, they each felt like a real person. They weren't merely stick figures in the background but characters in a story that gave depth to it.
The only thing that brought me from giving this the 5 stars i wanted to give it was some of the actions of the hero. He's a bit of a stalker and for that, it just, no. Sorry. I don't support that in any shape or form. I can understand a background check but going so far as to follow them home and do things for them like scrap ice off their windshield is freaky. I loved Kasper but I think he went to far in that (even if it did contribute to saving the heroine towards the end).
November 19, 2014
My thoughts on “Endangered Hearts” by Amanda Lance.
I was excited to receive an ARC for this title. I love fairy tale retellings and this beauty-and-the-beast-like-story sounded right up my alley. And although I have read many fairy tale retellings, this is the first beauty and the beast retelling I’ve read. So when its turn came up on my TBR pile I snuggled into my pink fluffy pillow (after risking life and limb fighting the cat for it) with a cup of peppermint tea and got reading.
The story itself was very well thought out. I could feel the pain and self-loathing of Kasper and the sweet, almost naivety of Emilia. There were some really poignant moments between the two would be lovers. And I liked that, for once, not everyone was supermodel gorgeous. Kasper was, to put it bluntly, ugly. And he knew it. But, as anyone who’s read the fairy tale knows, Emilia grows to know and love him despite his physical appearance. I did have an issue with how fast the two became infatuated with each other, especially Emilia. Kasper did nothing remotely friendly, yet she found herself “daydreaming” about him, and, even a little more melodramatic, daydreaming that he was daydreaming about her. Which, of course, he was.
Ms. Lance’s writing is crisp and clean. She is very proper in her use of language. And, although this isn’t how I write, I adjusted to her style quickly. She was able to explain places and people vividly, with enough detail that I was able to draw a picture in my head, but it didn’t read as though she was giving me a “laundry” list of features.
There were some transition issues for me. I had trouble keeping up with whose POV it was. The author could have done a better job of making that clear. Also, pacing, specifically at the beginning, was slow. But neither really hindered the enjoyment of the story.
Overall, I liked the book, but I didn’t love it. It’s the first in a series. I’m not sure if I’ll go back for seconds. Do I recommend it? Yes. It isn’t a “Bad” book by any means. My review is completely subjective. If you like fairy tale retellings, I would encourage you to give Endangered Hearts a try.
I was excited to receive an ARC for this title. I love fairy tale retellings and this beauty-and-the-beast-like-story sounded right up my alley. And although I have read many fairy tale retellings, this is the first beauty and the beast retelling I’ve read. So when its turn came up on my TBR pile I snuggled into my pink fluffy pillow (after risking life and limb fighting the cat for it) with a cup of peppermint tea and got reading.
The story itself was very well thought out. I could feel the pain and self-loathing of Kasper and the sweet, almost naivety of Emilia. There were some really poignant moments between the two would be lovers. And I liked that, for once, not everyone was supermodel gorgeous. Kasper was, to put it bluntly, ugly. And he knew it. But, as anyone who’s read the fairy tale knows, Emilia grows to know and love him despite his physical appearance. I did have an issue with how fast the two became infatuated with each other, especially Emilia. Kasper did nothing remotely friendly, yet she found herself “daydreaming” about him, and, even a little more melodramatic, daydreaming that he was daydreaming about her. Which, of course, he was.
Ms. Lance’s writing is crisp and clean. She is very proper in her use of language. And, although this isn’t how I write, I adjusted to her style quickly. She was able to explain places and people vividly, with enough detail that I was able to draw a picture in my head, but it didn’t read as though she was giving me a “laundry” list of features.
There were some transition issues for me. I had trouble keeping up with whose POV it was. The author could have done a better job of making that clear. Also, pacing, specifically at the beginning, was slow. But neither really hindered the enjoyment of the story.
Overall, I liked the book, but I didn’t love it. It’s the first in a series. I’m not sure if I’ll go back for seconds. Do I recommend it? Yes. It isn’t a “Bad” book by any means. My review is completely subjective. If you like fairy tale retellings, I would encourage you to give Endangered Hearts a try.
August 8, 2014
I really enjoyed Wanted and Conviction by Amanda Lance, so I was looking forward to trying another book/series from her. Endangered Hearts was enjoyable, but a bit of a mixed review for me.
What worked for me:
* It's got the Beauty and the Beast theme, and I'm totally okay with that. I love a good retelling and am always curious what spin an author is going to put on it, so I was excited to read about Emilia and Kasper.
* Emilia and Kasper are characters I really enjoyed getting to know. Kasper is particularly enigmatic and I wanted to know his story. And he's got a good one. Emilia had her own special circumstances, and I found her perspective interesting.
* There were some twists in there that I didn't expect and I liked that the story, though predictable in some ways, still gave me surprises.
* I had a hard time putting this book down and read through it quickly. It kept me fully engaged and I couldn't wait to see what would happen next.
But not so much:
* The writing was choppy in parts and some of the transitions were confusing. I found myself looking back through the pages wondering if I'd missed something.
* I needed more insight into their relationship and their connection. I felt like something was missing.
* The cover is deceptive. Here we have a very sexy cover, yet the sex scenes here are very fade-to-black or referenced to. Outside of kissing scenes, their physical relationship is mostly referred to. Which is fine, except when the cover is very sexual, I think readers looking for more will be disappointed.
* The ending left me wanting with a bit of a cliffhanger. Now there is more to come with their story, but some of the actions in the end were odd and questionable.
Overall, I enjoyed Endangered Hearts, but it didn't quite capture me as I had hoped it would. I would still like to continue the series and see where things for Kasper and Emilia go next, it's just not at the top of my reading list.
What worked for me:
* It's got the Beauty and the Beast theme, and I'm totally okay with that. I love a good retelling and am always curious what spin an author is going to put on it, so I was excited to read about Emilia and Kasper.
* Emilia and Kasper are characters I really enjoyed getting to know. Kasper is particularly enigmatic and I wanted to know his story. And he's got a good one. Emilia had her own special circumstances, and I found her perspective interesting.
* There were some twists in there that I didn't expect and I liked that the story, though predictable in some ways, still gave me surprises.
* I had a hard time putting this book down and read through it quickly. It kept me fully engaged and I couldn't wait to see what would happen next.
But not so much:
* The writing was choppy in parts and some of the transitions were confusing. I found myself looking back through the pages wondering if I'd missed something.
* I needed more insight into their relationship and their connection. I felt like something was missing.
* The cover is deceptive. Here we have a very sexy cover, yet the sex scenes here are very fade-to-black or referenced to. Outside of kissing scenes, their physical relationship is mostly referred to. Which is fine, except when the cover is very sexual, I think readers looking for more will be disappointed.
* The ending left me wanting with a bit of a cliffhanger. Now there is more to come with their story, but some of the actions in the end were odd and questionable.
Overall, I enjoyed Endangered Hearts, but it didn't quite capture me as I had hoped it would. I would still like to continue the series and see where things for Kasper and Emilia go next, it's just not at the top of my reading list.
August 27, 2016
I received an ARC of Endangered Hearts in return for an honest review.
Hmmmm this was a read that was tipping the scales both ways for me. I liked it and yet I wasn't so keen on it. This one is going to be hard to review.
I get where Amanda was going with the premise of Kasper and his 'looks'. I actually quite liked him even with his Napoleonic ways. I didn't know whether his personality was like it was because he was Persian or whether he really did talk like he was historical royalty. For instance he often referred to Emilia as 'foolish girl'. Actually the more I think of it, it's got a very classic english vernacular as though this book wants to be alongside the likes of the classics like Jane Eyre and Charlotte Bronte.
I liked Emilia but also didn't like her, she sometimes seemed very juvenile but on the other hand had such a nice personality and was very forgiving of people and their traits. Which also opened up another side of her as coming across as a bit of a doormat, it was great when she started saying no and sticking up for herself.
Between Kasper and Emilia I wasn't fully invested in their connection, I was almost there but not quite. One minute she seemed to be saying no to him and that it couldn't go any further and the next minute they are naked together, hmmmmmm.
That ending as well, I won't put a spoiler on it but has it been left that this can be explored more or is it left to our imaginations as to what they do next?
All in all compared to Amanda's other books this falls a little short and doesn't feel a knockout read. But even with all my little niggles I can hand on heart say I could not put this book down until I had finished it, I had to get to the end and the outcome of them. So go into this with different eyes and don't expect it to read for instance like Wanted because it won't but if you want a variation on the theme Beauty and the Beast then you should enjoy this book. It's not a cracker but it surely is engaging.
Hmmmm this was a read that was tipping the scales both ways for me. I liked it and yet I wasn't so keen on it. This one is going to be hard to review.
I get where Amanda was going with the premise of Kasper and his 'looks'. I actually quite liked him even with his Napoleonic ways. I didn't know whether his personality was like it was because he was Persian or whether he really did talk like he was historical royalty. For instance he often referred to Emilia as 'foolish girl'. Actually the more I think of it, it's got a very classic english vernacular as though this book wants to be alongside the likes of the classics like Jane Eyre and Charlotte Bronte.
I liked Emilia but also didn't like her, she sometimes seemed very juvenile but on the other hand had such a nice personality and was very forgiving of people and their traits. Which also opened up another side of her as coming across as a bit of a doormat, it was great when she started saying no and sticking up for herself.
Between Kasper and Emilia I wasn't fully invested in their connection, I was almost there but not quite. One minute she seemed to be saying no to him and that it couldn't go any further and the next minute they are naked together, hmmmmmm.
That ending as well, I won't put a spoiler on it but has it been left that this can be explored more or is it left to our imaginations as to what they do next?
All in all compared to Amanda's other books this falls a little short and doesn't feel a knockout read. But even with all my little niggles I can hand on heart say I could not put this book down until I had finished it, I had to get to the end and the outcome of them. So go into this with different eyes and don't expect it to read for instance like Wanted because it won't but if you want a variation on the theme Beauty and the Beast then you should enjoy this book. It's not a cracker but it surely is engaging.
October 7, 2014
This story is all over the place. It goes from one point in time into another.
A lot of stereotypes are thrown into the story about Americans and wealthy people.
Not sure I read the same book as these other people because I did not feel like the story was well written or that it even flowed. I did not even connect it to Beauty and the Beast. It was so out there that I had nothing to compare it to.
Kasper keeps his face covered and wears gloves on his hands. Kasper watches Emilia clean his house. Kasper is rude to Emilia yet she smiles and goes about her business. They are an odd pair.
Emilia is curious about his health and his personal life. She snoops inside the library as she cleans trying to find out who Kasper is. Emilia thinks you can tell a lot about a person by what they spend there money on.
Both are making prejudgements about the other by looking up information about the other instead of asking the person face to face. Conversation is not something that occurs very often for Kasper and Emilia. Kasper tends to watch Emilia and only approaches her when he is upset with something she is doing. When Kasper speaks to Emilia he is very forward and judgmental. He lacks tact and etiquette. During the days Emilia is at home she takes care of her mother. Emilia goes to school and studies at night. Then two days a week she cleans the manor. Emilia is used to taking care of other people. She is studying to be a vet.
It was a valiant attempt at a story about a man with health issues so severe he hides behind a mask feeling sorry for himself and a young woman who sacrifices her ability to succeed in life to take care of her mother. Two sad and lonely people find each other in friendship. It was a weird story. Skimmed through most of it. Only enjoys cents when the manor was occupied only by Kasper when everyone was on vacation.
A lot of stereotypes are thrown into the story about Americans and wealthy people.
Not sure I read the same book as these other people because I did not feel like the story was well written or that it even flowed. I did not even connect it to Beauty and the Beast. It was so out there that I had nothing to compare it to.
Kasper keeps his face covered and wears gloves on his hands. Kasper watches Emilia clean his house. Kasper is rude to Emilia yet she smiles and goes about her business. They are an odd pair.
Emilia is curious about his health and his personal life. She snoops inside the library as she cleans trying to find out who Kasper is. Emilia thinks you can tell a lot about a person by what they spend there money on.
Both are making prejudgements about the other by looking up information about the other instead of asking the person face to face. Conversation is not something that occurs very often for Kasper and Emilia. Kasper tends to watch Emilia and only approaches her when he is upset with something she is doing. When Kasper speaks to Emilia he is very forward and judgmental. He lacks tact and etiquette. During the days Emilia is at home she takes care of her mother. Emilia goes to school and studies at night. Then two days a week she cleans the manor. Emilia is used to taking care of other people. She is studying to be a vet.
It was a valiant attempt at a story about a man with health issues so severe he hides behind a mask feeling sorry for himself and a young woman who sacrifices her ability to succeed in life to take care of her mother. Two sad and lonely people find each other in friendship. It was a weird story. Skimmed through most of it. Only enjoys cents when the manor was occupied only by Kasper when everyone was on vacation.
September 11, 2016
Emilia Ward is being watched.
And it isn’t just by her mother’s creep of a boyfriend or one of her many employers. Instead, she is certain it something else—someone else. However, in a life with college classes and alcoholic mother to look after, Emilia doesn’t have time to explore her suspicions. She would much rather think about her new job at Iram Manor, and more importantly—its mysterious and alluring owner.
After a lifetime of isolation and trapped in a disfigured body Kasper Zafar thought he knew pain. Confining himself to his work as an architect and the love of his music, he never expects the beautiful Emilia Ward to enter his life. Young and naive, his new housekeeper does not flinch at the sight of him, and is even so bold as to call him her friend.
Determined to teach her in all worldly things, the opposites grow closer and the role of student and teacher and interchange. Yet Emilia’s life outside the manor is not a happy one, and when Kasper’s attempt to watch over her fails, both will discover than love may be the most painful thing of all.
Loved this book. It's full of everything you need to keep a story interesting. I fell in love with the characters & the story line...it kept you turning the pages to learn more..I wanted to know what was gonna happen next. The only thing is it left me wondering what happened with some of the characters...Hopefully there's another book coming.
And it isn’t just by her mother’s creep of a boyfriend or one of her many employers. Instead, she is certain it something else—someone else. However, in a life with college classes and alcoholic mother to look after, Emilia doesn’t have time to explore her suspicions. She would much rather think about her new job at Iram Manor, and more importantly—its mysterious and alluring owner.
After a lifetime of isolation and trapped in a disfigured body Kasper Zafar thought he knew pain. Confining himself to his work as an architect and the love of his music, he never expects the beautiful Emilia Ward to enter his life. Young and naive, his new housekeeper does not flinch at the sight of him, and is even so bold as to call him her friend.
Determined to teach her in all worldly things, the opposites grow closer and the role of student and teacher and interchange. Yet Emilia’s life outside the manor is not a happy one, and when Kasper’s attempt to watch over her fails, both will discover than love may be the most painful thing of all.
Loved this book. It's full of everything you need to keep a story interesting. I fell in love with the characters & the story line...it kept you turning the pages to learn more..I wanted to know what was gonna happen next. The only thing is it left me wondering what happened with some of the characters...Hopefully there's another book coming.
December 25, 2014
"A face is just a face."
I was confused on which era and time the story was set in. The compositions of words were like from the 1800’s but at times it was from the 20th century. When she’s in the manor and when she’s in her Mom’s house, it’s like she’s in two completely different words, both figuratively and literally speaking.
Emilia is like Belle from Beauty and the Beast. She has a heart of gold. She is sweet and kind but knows how to stand by what she believes in. Emilia loved things that weren’t well loved by others. She’s a sucker for damaged and flawed animals and also people.
While Kasper, has a bit of a stalkerish behavior. He was a bit creepy and perverse. Although I couldn’t blame him, with his past and experiences, maybe it’s the only way he knows how. His story wasn’t much elaborated and him not sharing everything suits his character. At least, the questions about his appearance were answered.
Their relationship wasn’t insta-love, at least I think it wasn’t. Though, I felt it was rushed. Their relationship didn’t grab as the way I hoped. The attraction was there but I didn’t feel much spark. But I guess if I were Kasper and for the first time, someone looked at you like a normal person and not flinches, you couldn’t help but love that person.
Over all, it was a nice read. Endangered Hearts is a peculiar and yet delightful retelling of Beauty and the Beast.
I was confused on which era and time the story was set in. The compositions of words were like from the 1800’s but at times it was from the 20th century. When she’s in the manor and when she’s in her Mom’s house, it’s like she’s in two completely different words, both figuratively and literally speaking.
Emilia is like Belle from Beauty and the Beast. She has a heart of gold. She is sweet and kind but knows how to stand by what she believes in. Emilia loved things that weren’t well loved by others. She’s a sucker for damaged and flawed animals and also people.
While Kasper, has a bit of a stalkerish behavior. He was a bit creepy and perverse. Although I couldn’t blame him, with his past and experiences, maybe it’s the only way he knows how. His story wasn’t much elaborated and him not sharing everything suits his character. At least, the questions about his appearance were answered.
Their relationship wasn’t insta-love, at least I think it wasn’t. Though, I felt it was rushed. Their relationship didn’t grab as the way I hoped. The attraction was there but I didn’t feel much spark. But I guess if I were Kasper and for the first time, someone looked at you like a normal person and not flinches, you couldn’t help but love that person.
Over all, it was a nice read. Endangered Hearts is a peculiar and yet delightful retelling of Beauty and the Beast.
March 20, 2014
5 sweet and romantics stars
I loved Endangered Hearts from the begining to the very last page and I'm so glad to have given this book a shot.
This story was so well written as it was sweet and sexy, we were presented with a employer/employee story kind of mix with the classic beauty and the beast classic tale, add to that an interracial romance and all the misunderstandings that you can possibly come across by this and a touch of dark lurking in theirs past in here and it was so well paced and elegantly done that everything fall into its right place that it felt really fresh and captivating as well. A really lovely story that I couldn't put down for so long until I had it finished, got me feeling thoughout the entire book that I was really reading a unique story and is now part of my favorite book list.
I would really recommend Emilia and Kasper's story to everyone who enjoys a good romance story with a bit of angst so keep this in mind because this has a sequel and despite this book has no cliffhanger per se you will want to read the next book as this story has not come yet to a full circle by the end.
This copy was given to me in exchange of an honest review as a part of a blog tour.
I loved Endangered Hearts from the begining to the very last page and I'm so glad to have given this book a shot.
This story was so well written as it was sweet and sexy, we were presented with a employer/employee story kind of mix with the classic beauty and the beast classic tale, add to that an interracial romance and all the misunderstandings that you can possibly come across by this and a touch of dark lurking in theirs past in here and it was so well paced and elegantly done that everything fall into its right place that it felt really fresh and captivating as well. A really lovely story that I couldn't put down for so long until I had it finished, got me feeling thoughout the entire book that I was really reading a unique story and is now part of my favorite book list.
I would really recommend Emilia and Kasper's story to everyone who enjoys a good romance story with a bit of angst so keep this in mind because this has a sequel and despite this book has no cliffhanger per se you will want to read the next book as this story has not come yet to a full circle by the end.
This copy was given to me in exchange of an honest review as a part of a blog tour.
November 10, 2014
Check out the full review here...
This was an interesting and romantic read about two people looking past first impressions and finding love. This wasn’t an insta-love book. It was more of an intsa-curiosity kinda thing. I just made that up but it is totally true. These two people accepted the worst out of one another and instead got to learn about who they are on the inside and fell in love that way. Emilia went into this job expecting the owner to be cruel and he was, but she was able to handle him and get to know the actual person underneath the mask. Kasper did it in a more creepy way. He watched her. He followed her home, watched her from cameras while she was in his home, and hired a private investigator to watch her. At first he was looking for a reason to believe she was a thief until his obsession turned into wanting to get to know he
This was an interesting and romantic read about two people looking past first impressions and finding love. This wasn’t an insta-love book. It was more of an intsa-curiosity kinda thing. I just made that up but it is totally true. These two people accepted the worst out of one another and instead got to learn about who they are on the inside and fell in love that way. Emilia went into this job expecting the owner to be cruel and he was, but she was able to handle him and get to know the actual person underneath the mask. Kasper did it in a more creepy way. He watched her. He followed her home, watched her from cameras while she was in his home, and hired a private investigator to watch her. At first he was looking for a reason to believe she was a thief until his obsession turned into wanting to get to know he
August 31, 2014
VERY UNIQUE STORY
Emeilia is a student with an alcoholic mother that does housekeeping work to pay the bills. The agency that she works for sends her to work for Kasper, who is notoriously difficult. The maids that work for him always leave crying because of the verbal abuse. But Amelia is made of sterner stuff. Kasper becomes obsessed with Amelia, following her around, and watching her over surveillance cameras without her knowing. Over time the form a relationship.
This book is unique because Kasper isn't beautiful, or even really a nice person. He is deformed and wears a mask. He doesn't know how to relate to people. He even, at times, seems childish. So it was interesting to see how their relationship developed.
The book was confusing at times. POVs changed without warning, and it could be hard to keep up. And though it was implied the characters may have had sex, it wasn't described AT ALL :( And I didn't like how it ended, since nothing was resolved, and we still don't know anything about Kasper's past
Emeilia is a student with an alcoholic mother that does housekeeping work to pay the bills. The agency that she works for sends her to work for Kasper, who is notoriously difficult. The maids that work for him always leave crying because of the verbal abuse. But Amelia is made of sterner stuff. Kasper becomes obsessed with Amelia, following her around, and watching her over surveillance cameras without her knowing. Over time the form a relationship.
This book is unique because Kasper isn't beautiful, or even really a nice person. He is deformed and wears a mask. He doesn't know how to relate to people. He even, at times, seems childish. So it was interesting to see how their relationship developed.
The book was confusing at times. POVs changed without warning, and it could be hard to keep up. And though it was implied the characters may have had sex, it wasn't described AT ALL :( And I didn't like how it ended, since nothing was resolved, and we still don't know anything about Kasper's past
September 24, 2014
Book provided in exchange for honest review.
I went into this with no clue what this story was going to be about, but within the first couple of chapters I quickly figured out that this is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast, but with added elements of a couple of classic, dark gothic-type romance stories (Jane Eyre and Phantom of the Opera).
I was tickled by Kaspar's reaction to Emilia; he's absolutely baffled that she's not put off by his appearance (well, not overly much, until he removes the mask) and confused as to when they start to become friends, so it was easy to see how his feelings developed for her, but I found it hard to understand what it was about Kaspar that drew Emilia to him in the first place. Physical appearance aside, he was just an all-around jackhole.
This is, by far, one of the most unconvential romance stories I've read, but I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series to see how this will all play out.
I went into this with no clue what this story was going to be about, but within the first couple of chapters I quickly figured out that this is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast, but with added elements of a couple of classic, dark gothic-type romance stories (Jane Eyre and Phantom of the Opera).
I was tickled by Kaspar's reaction to Emilia; he's absolutely baffled that she's not put off by his appearance (well, not overly much, until he removes the mask) and confused as to when they start to become friends, so it was easy to see how his feelings developed for her, but I found it hard to understand what it was about Kaspar that drew Emilia to him in the first place. Physical appearance aside, he was just an all-around jackhole.
This is, by far, one of the most unconvential romance stories I've read, but I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series to see how this will all play out.
January 2, 2015
This is a great book. It has a beauty and the beast quality to it, But totally wonderful in its own way. Amanda Lance Has a way with Painting a story were you feel like you are a part of the story. She makes you feel what the characters are feeling. When they cry you cry when their angry you are. And just like other books of hers I have read, You feel emotionally tie to the book to the bitter end. So much so before I even wrote this review I had to get book two, I had to know what was going to happen next. Kasper our hero if the story, May have started out as an ass, but man you do so love him along with Emilia as they fall in love. Unfortunately Kasper thinks she is better off without him. And he couldn’t be more wrong they need each other to survive now if they can just figure that out, they may get their happily ever after they both deserve.
I am off to read book two, well that’s a fib I started it last night. But I had to stop as not to spoil the next book for you.
I am off to read book two, well that’s a fib I started it last night. But I had to stop as not to spoil the next book for you.
March 26, 2014
I loved the whole fact that Emilia , was not the type of girl to just look for appearances . How she made Kasper , feel secure and wanted made me feel so in awe of her character , how lovely she was .
I also thought it had a nice plot overall the whole falling for he's maid was predictable but nice.
Kasper the male lead was quite something , I felt so sad for him , Ofcourse he had a horrible attitude it was only natural since nobody had ever shown him kindness . He was totally lovable thought!! ;)
Highlights from the book....
"No miss ward you are the only foolish girl in my life"
"I am a very hungry man he said releasing her face from he's hands I am dying from my starvation "
" he fled to her and fell in his knees barely coherent as he pleaded before her "
" I adore you Emilia ward let me worship you and I will be your dog, your slave ... Anything you want .
I also thought it had a nice plot overall the whole falling for he's maid was predictable but nice.
Kasper the male lead was quite something , I felt so sad for him , Ofcourse he had a horrible attitude it was only natural since nobody had ever shown him kindness . He was totally lovable thought!! ;)
Highlights from the book....
"No miss ward you are the only foolish girl in my life"
"I am a very hungry man he said releasing her face from he's hands I am dying from my starvation "
" he fled to her and fell in his knees barely coherent as he pleaded before her "
" I adore you Emilia ward let me worship you and I will be your dog, your slave ... Anything you want .
March 18, 2014
EMILIA WARD IS PUTTING HER WAY THREW COLLEGE BY WORKING FOR GREEN AND CLEAN HOUSEKEEPING. AFTER ALL OTHERS REFUSED, SHE IS ASIGNED TO CLEAN THE IRAM MANOR, OWNED BY KASPER ZAFAR. KASPER HAS SELF CONFINED HIMSELF TO THE THIRD FLOOR TO AVOID HER BUT IS IMMEDIATELY ADDICTED TO HER PRESENCE AND QUICK TONGUE. FREQUENTLY CALLING HER A “FOOLISH GIRL” BUT BEHIND HER BACK CALLING HER “HIS LITTLE PEACH”. YOU’RE IMMEDIATELY DRAWN IN BY THE MYSTORY THAT SAROUNDS KASPER ZAFAR. HE IS VERY HARSH AS TIMES BUT DOES SHOW HIS TENDER, PATIENT AND ROMANTIC SIDES TO HER, WHILE DRIVING HIS ATTORNEY AND ASSISTANT CRAZY WITH THE SUDDEN CHANGES THEY ARE SEEING. ENDANGERED HEARTS IS WELL WRITTEN, KEEPING YOUR ATTEND ALL THE WAY THREW THE STORY IS CAPTIVATING AND THE ALTERNATING POV IS GREAT.
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