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Exquisite Betrayal
A male Romance Author… a convention in Vegas… a female book blogger… a goal to lose her virginity… what happens when you mix all the above?
Fallon McKinley is headed to Vegas for the Wicked Wenches Romance Con and losing her virginity is only one of her goals. The other is to meet her favorite author of romance novels, R.T. Sinclair. What she doesn’t realize is that the sexy green-eyed god she rams into at the airport is the real R.T. When they keep running into each other, she’s shocked, but excited, because the attraction is irresistible.
Ryland Thomas Sinclair doesn’t want anyone to know his true identity. He’s the author that all women love, but everyone thinks he’s a female. He hides his persona behind the public face of his twin sister, keeping his own a secret. But after meeting the lovely Fallon, his intentions to avoid a relationship come to a screeching halt. She’s put an unwanted kink into his perfectly laid out plans. His unusual reaction surprises him because after a heart-shredding breakup a few years ago, he’s managed to avoid women at all costs.
Resisting Fallon becomes more difficult than he imagines. Soon things are spiraling out of control, until a major miscommunication has Fallon walking out of his home and his life. Will Ryland Thomas succeed in losing the woman he loves? Or can he win her back?
Fallon McKinley is headed to Vegas for the Wicked Wenches Romance Con and losing her virginity is only one of her goals. The other is to meet her favorite author of romance novels, R.T. Sinclair. What she doesn’t realize is that the sexy green-eyed god she rams into at the airport is the real R.T. When they keep running into each other, she’s shocked, but excited, because the attraction is irresistible.
Ryland Thomas Sinclair doesn’t want anyone to know his true identity. He’s the author that all women love, but everyone thinks he’s a female. He hides his persona behind the public face of his twin sister, keeping his own a secret. But after meeting the lovely Fallon, his intentions to avoid a relationship come to a screeching halt. She’s put an unwanted kink into his perfectly laid out plans. His unusual reaction surprises him because after a heart-shredding breakup a few years ago, he’s managed to avoid women at all costs.
Resisting Fallon becomes more difficult than he imagines. Soon things are spiraling out of control, until a major miscommunication has Fallon walking out of his home and his life. Will Ryland Thomas succeed in losing the woman he loves? Or can he win her back?
387 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 4, 2013
33 people are currently reading
1247 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Hargrove
76 books2,460 followersOne day, on her way home from work as a sales manager, USA Today bestselling author, A. M. Hargrove, realized her life was on fast forward and if she didn't do something soon, it would be too late to write that work of fiction she had been dreaming of her whole life. So she made a quick decision to quit her job and reinvented herself as a Naughty and Nice Romance Author.
Reader, Writer, #WalterThePuppy Owner, Dark Chocolate Lover, Ice Cream Worshipper, Vodka Aficionado, Coffee Drinker, she believes coffee and ice cream should be added as part of the USDA food groups.
Connect with Annie here
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Reader, Writer, #WalterThePuppy Owner, Dark Chocolate Lover, Ice Cream Worshipper, Vodka Aficionado, Coffee Drinker, she believes coffee and ice cream should be added as part of the USDA food groups.
Connect with Annie here
Newsletter: http://amhargrove.com/mailing-list/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/amhargroveauthor
Instagram: http://www.instagram/amhargroveauthor
Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/amhargrove
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/a-m-h...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
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May 8, 2023I don't get why they all even his sister called him Ryland Thomas all the time, it was weird. Full name not Ry or Ryland, got on my nerves.
He, the hero, if you can call him that is a major jerk, I get he's messed up after his ex but he's not the first person to be cheated on and the heroine hasn't exactly had or having a great life either but he is such a jerk so many times and the last one, the obvious one, the one we are all waiting for as it obviously coming he is so bad it's impossible to come back from that.
If you love someone where is you trust, at least allowing them to talk to you, explain themselves, if Ryland can treat her this way it doesn't say much for their relationship in the future.
I wouldn't read this again, it's well written but the hero is unlikeable even if he does the redeem thing at the end. He hurts her so much I am not sure it is redeemable, his actions are pretty bad.
He, the hero, if you can call him that is a major jerk, I get he's messed up after his ex but he's not the first person to be cheated on and the heroine hasn't exactly had or having a great life either but he is such a jerk so many times and the last one, the obvious one, the one we are all waiting for as it obviously coming he is so bad it's impossible to come back from that.
If you love someone where is you trust, at least allowing them to talk to you, explain themselves, if Ryland can treat her this way it doesn't say much for their relationship in the future.
I wouldn't read this again, it's well written but the hero is unlikeable even if he does the redeem thing at the end. He hurts her so much I am not sure it is redeemable, his actions are pretty bad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2014
DNF- pg. 104
When I first read the blurb for this one, I was immediately intrigued- a book blogger falling in love with a romance author, who she doesn’t KNOW is actually her favorite? Add in the setting of Las Vegas and this was sure to be a crazy adventure! Unfortunately, this one just didn’t work out for me. While the premise was interesting enough, I found problems with the execution, as well as the characters.
Separately, I liked Fallon and Ryland Thomas. Fallon was a lot of fun, though definitely klutzy. She keeps running into Ryland Thomas and every time some mishap happens that had me both cracking up and feeling mortified for her.
Ryland Thomas was a nice enough guy, I suppose. He is attracted to Fallon but once he finds out she is a book blogger there to see her favorite author R.T. Sinclair (who is really him!) he immediately puts the brakes on and acts like a total jerk. I hated how he would draw her in and you would feel all this sexual chemistry and then he would act completely aloof towards her. However, it is their encounter in his hotel that really pissed me off. The way he treats Fallon after finding out about her virginity status is appalling and I would have delivered a swift kick to the balls and walked away without looking back! Unfortunately, Fallon falls prey to more unfortunate circumstances and ends up having to rely on Ryland Thomas for help.
I just felt their relationship was too back and forth. They would end up getting intimate with one another and then boom they’re back to fighting with each other. I just wasn’t drawn in by their chemistry and felt frustrated most of the time.
I liked Hargrove’s writing style as it felt more personal and realistic of how people would talk, but it just wasn’t what I was used to and I felt that hindered me a little bit.
There are a lot of really great reviews for this one, so I am definitely in the minority, but this one just didn’t end up going in the direction I thought it would and really had trouble reconciling the character’s behavior.
*Received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
When I first read the blurb for this one, I was immediately intrigued- a book blogger falling in love with a romance author, who she doesn’t KNOW is actually her favorite? Add in the setting of Las Vegas and this was sure to be a crazy adventure! Unfortunately, this one just didn’t work out for me. While the premise was interesting enough, I found problems with the execution, as well as the characters.
Separately, I liked Fallon and Ryland Thomas. Fallon was a lot of fun, though definitely klutzy. She keeps running into Ryland Thomas and every time some mishap happens that had me both cracking up and feeling mortified for her.
Ryland Thomas was a nice enough guy, I suppose. He is attracted to Fallon but once he finds out she is a book blogger there to see her favorite author R.T. Sinclair (who is really him!) he immediately puts the brakes on and acts like a total jerk. I hated how he would draw her in and you would feel all this sexual chemistry and then he would act completely aloof towards her. However, it is their encounter in his hotel that really pissed me off. The way he treats Fallon after finding out about her virginity status is appalling and I would have delivered a swift kick to the balls and walked away without looking back! Unfortunately, Fallon falls prey to more unfortunate circumstances and ends up having to rely on Ryland Thomas for help.
I just felt their relationship was too back and forth. They would end up getting intimate with one another and then boom they’re back to fighting with each other. I just wasn’t drawn in by their chemistry and felt frustrated most of the time.
I liked Hargrove’s writing style as it felt more personal and realistic of how people would talk, but it just wasn’t what I was used to and I felt that hindered me a little bit.
There are a lot of really great reviews for this one, so I am definitely in the minority, but this one just didn’t end up going in the direction I thought it would and really had trouble reconciling the character’s behavior.
*Received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
January 15, 2014
2.5 Unfinished stars. Sorry guys, I just couldn't finish it. I swear, I tried to like it!! I really did!! But I just didn't connect with the story or characters at all and even more so the story dragged. I think it should have ended half way in since I couldn't see a whole lot of plot and realism within it going on at all.
And so, with a regretful heart...
December 16, 2013
Absolutely AWESOME!!!
I gotta say, the first chapter in this book is amazeballs!! I was dying laughing and it hooked me instantly. I just knew I was going to love it.
I mean, a blogger convention in Vegas?? Oh yeah, it is going to be EPIC!!
Then add a one of those bloggers being a virgin?? OH YEAH...beyond PHENOMENAL!!!
But, it is not all about the convention and the heroines virginity.....A.M. Hargrove provided a great storyline with intriguing twists and shockers that kept me glued to those pages all the way through.
I was laughing, screaming, swooning, fanning myself, and cringing from so many awesome moments found in this novel. Exquisite Betrayal donned some awesome quotes, fabulous scenes and a relationship that rocks you to your core.
I hated seeing it end and its definitely...One of my favorite reads of the year...
I gotta say, the first chapter in this book is amazeballs!! I was dying laughing and it hooked me instantly. I just knew I was going to love it.
I mean, a blogger convention in Vegas?? Oh yeah, it is going to be EPIC!!
Then add a one of those bloggers being a virgin?? OH YEAH...beyond PHENOMENAL!!!
But, it is not all about the convention and the heroines virginity.....A.M. Hargrove provided a great storyline with intriguing twists and shockers that kept me glued to those pages all the way through.
I was laughing, screaming, swooning, fanning myself, and cringing from so many awesome moments found in this novel. Exquisite Betrayal donned some awesome quotes, fabulous scenes and a relationship that rocks you to your core.
I hated seeing it end and its definitely...One of my favorite reads of the year...
December 21, 2013
Quick review:
Cover: Hot
Rating: NC-17
Steaminess: Super Hot
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: what a romance
Characters: Well Done
Plot: Love, sex and betrayal
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? N/A
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Ryland
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
Although this book has a similar feel to another popular book, I actually read this one before the other book in question was published. So it’s a twist of fate that they have a similar hook. However, these book share different in story. So check this one out.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
Cover: Hot
Rating: NC-17
Steaminess: Super Hot
Thumbs Up: 5
Overall: what a romance
Characters: Well Done
Plot: Love, sex and betrayal
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? N/A
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Ryland
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
Although this book has a similar feel to another popular book, I actually read this one before the other book in question was published. So it’s a twist of fate that they have a similar hook. However, these book share different in story. So check this one out.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://mybookboyfriend.blogspot.com/2...
May 9, 2023
Save me from spineless ‘betrayed’ heroes and judgemental sisters that fear abandonment yet think nothing of reciprocating and vilifying without verifying the source. They casted her as the villain, faced with overwhelming incriminating evidence, she was tarred and feathered in the court of public opinion.
It took longer to convince him (by default) to listen to an explanation than it took him to abandon her.
Excerpt:::
“Don’t you dare touch me! Of all the women in this city, you had to pick that slut?”
“Whoa, slow it down there.”
“No, you slow it down.” Suddenly, my hurt is pushed in the back seat and a ferocious anger is now at the wheel. Anger because he wouldn’t even give me the chance to explain what happened, anger at Critics Abound for taking advantage of a hard-working and honest employee.
“Yeah, you heard me. You slow it down, Ryland Thomas. Let’s talk betrayal. You don’t give me the courtesy of three lousy minutes of your precious time to explain what happened? After everything we’ve been through? All the things you said to me? How much I meant to you? Well, you can go to hell.
“In my world, when someone means that much to someone else, we give each other the benefit of the doubt. Did you honestly think I could betray you?
“He’s just standing there, staring at me like I’m an alien. “You’re so goddamn stupid. And the worst part of it all is that barely a month goes by and you invite that cheater-slut-whore into your home. You disgust me.”
The letter she wrote which he couldn’t bother to read:
“Dear Ryland Thomas,
I’m writing this as a last resort. I don’t know or understand why you wouldn’t speak to me, take my calls or texts. With the love we both have (had) for each other, I would’ve thought I was worth at least a few minutes of your time. I know it all looked bad, but I swear to you on the love I have for my dad, that I didn’t do it. I would never have done anything so deceitful. That secret would’ve gone to my grave with me and I never, ever told a soul.
I guess I wasn’t careful, though, and my boss’s boss became greedy enough to hire a private investigator that planted a recording device on me. And the rest, as they say, is history. I resigned immediately when I found out and I’m suing “Critics Abound and Ruth. Everything I win will go to you and Tilly. In fact, you can have everything of mine, including my inheritance from my dad. It has no meaning for me without you in my life anyway.
I’m returning all your precious gifts. They are rightfully yours so they should be returned to you. I’m also paying you back for bailing me out of debt. Thank you for being so kind to me when I needed it the most.
Strangely enough, my dad left a sizable trust for me, which my mom never told me about. So don’t worry about my financial state. I’ll be fine (not that you’d worry about me anymore, but I thought you should know). I know you’re suing me, and honestly, I hope you win. In fact, just name the price of your damages, and I’ll save you your attorney’s fee and simply write you a check.
The last thing in here is the real article I wrote on you… the one I thought was being published. I thought maybe you could find it in your heart to at least to read it. I know it’s too late for us”.
She’s financially struggled for years, neglected and chastised by her mother that she is unloveable.
Her father left her a substantial trust fund amounting to millions and out of sheer pettiness and jealousy her mother witnessed her struggle and rather than overcome her jealousy and make her daughter’s life easier. She withholds all knowledge associated to the trust.
I like the quote incorporated into this story represented as pearls of wisdom from her father:
“We’re all human, and as humans, we all make mistakes. Some are horrible ones, but they’re mistakes nonetheless. Forgive, Fallon. It will make you a better person.”
How does one evaluate if someone is truly remorseful and regrets their actions?
It took longer to convince him (by default) to listen to an explanation than it took him to abandon her.
Excerpt:::
“Don’t you dare touch me! Of all the women in this city, you had to pick that slut?”
“Whoa, slow it down there.”
“No, you slow it down.” Suddenly, my hurt is pushed in the back seat and a ferocious anger is now at the wheel. Anger because he wouldn’t even give me the chance to explain what happened, anger at Critics Abound for taking advantage of a hard-working and honest employee.
“Yeah, you heard me. You slow it down, Ryland Thomas. Let’s talk betrayal. You don’t give me the courtesy of three lousy minutes of your precious time to explain what happened? After everything we’ve been through? All the things you said to me? How much I meant to you? Well, you can go to hell.
“In my world, when someone means that much to someone else, we give each other the benefit of the doubt. Did you honestly think I could betray you?
“He’s just standing there, staring at me like I’m an alien. “You’re so goddamn stupid. And the worst part of it all is that barely a month goes by and you invite that cheater-slut-whore into your home. You disgust me.”
The letter she wrote which he couldn’t bother to read:
“Dear Ryland Thomas,
I’m writing this as a last resort. I don’t know or understand why you wouldn’t speak to me, take my calls or texts. With the love we both have (had) for each other, I would’ve thought I was worth at least a few minutes of your time. I know it all looked bad, but I swear to you on the love I have for my dad, that I didn’t do it. I would never have done anything so deceitful. That secret would’ve gone to my grave with me and I never, ever told a soul.
I guess I wasn’t careful, though, and my boss’s boss became greedy enough to hire a private investigator that planted a recording device on me. And the rest, as they say, is history. I resigned immediately when I found out and I’m suing “Critics Abound and Ruth. Everything I win will go to you and Tilly. In fact, you can have everything of mine, including my inheritance from my dad. It has no meaning for me without you in my life anyway.
I’m returning all your precious gifts. They are rightfully yours so they should be returned to you. I’m also paying you back for bailing me out of debt. Thank you for being so kind to me when I needed it the most.
Strangely enough, my dad left a sizable trust for me, which my mom never told me about. So don’t worry about my financial state. I’ll be fine (not that you’d worry about me anymore, but I thought you should know). I know you’re suing me, and honestly, I hope you win. In fact, just name the price of your damages, and I’ll save you your attorney’s fee and simply write you a check.
The last thing in here is the real article I wrote on you… the one I thought was being published. I thought maybe you could find it in your heart to at least to read it. I know it’s too late for us”.
She’s financially struggled for years, neglected and chastised by her mother that she is unloveable.
Her father left her a substantial trust fund amounting to millions and out of sheer pettiness and jealousy her mother witnessed her struggle and rather than overcome her jealousy and make her daughter’s life easier. She withholds all knowledge associated to the trust.
I like the quote incorporated into this story represented as pearls of wisdom from her father:
“We’re all human, and as humans, we all make mistakes. Some are horrible ones, but they’re mistakes nonetheless. Forgive, Fallon. It will make you a better person.”
How does one evaluate if someone is truly remorseful and regrets their actions?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2013
Loved this story...loved the characters, loved the storyline...just loved it. I mean, how absolutely great is this storyline? An author and a blogger falling in love? I haven't seen this story done before and glad that someone finally took the ball and ran with it. Letting us bloggers having a little bit of time in the spotlight.
In fact, I love that Hargrove used a few of us bloggers in her story. (It’s one of those cases of the last names have been changed to hide the real identity of those involved kind of things.) But I thought it was an absolute genius idea to add us. Especially me. (Ha!) And in no way does that play apart in my rating this book 5 big ol' stars. That is all due to that wonderful storyline. I am just glad I play a sensible role in this one. The other book I was in had me as a drunken groupie. Ah, such is the life of a book blogger. But seriously love the relationship between everyone in the story. Bloggers and readers alike form certain bonds and it is like a family. If not stronger.
Now Ryland was my most favorite part of the story. He is one of those good guys...the ones that was raised right and knows how to treat a lady. So glad to see his fame as an author didn't leave him cocky and all turd like. I think it is refreshing to see a good guy in a book every now and then. And Hargrove wrote him to perfection. Sure he has issues...who doesn't? He is still one of my most favorite guys of 2013. Ab-so-lutely.
There was a one-two sucker punch nearing the end that had me literally gasping. My heart was in pieces for Fallon and I am sure you will be the same way when you get to it. How dare some people! How freakin’ dare them. I was coming unglued and needed Fallon to get her justice.
I can't wait until everyone gets a chance to read this one. Hargrove keeps getting better and better with her stories and I cannot wait for more of her stuff. I started this book late in the evening and did not put it down until nearly 1 am. I had to finish it before I fell asleep or I would have been up all night tossing and turning wondering what happened to them. Would they find their way back to each other? Yes, it was a must I finished the book before I went to sleep. So what are you waiting for? Go get it and prepare yourself for some fun times and epic romance!
In fact, I love that Hargrove used a few of us bloggers in her story. (It’s one of those cases of the last names have been changed to hide the real identity of those involved kind of things.) But I thought it was an absolute genius idea to add us. Especially me. (Ha!) And in no way does that play apart in my rating this book 5 big ol' stars. That is all due to that wonderful storyline. I am just glad I play a sensible role in this one. The other book I was in had me as a drunken groupie. Ah, such is the life of a book blogger. But seriously love the relationship between everyone in the story. Bloggers and readers alike form certain bonds and it is like a family. If not stronger.
Now Ryland was my most favorite part of the story. He is one of those good guys...the ones that was raised right and knows how to treat a lady. So glad to see his fame as an author didn't leave him cocky and all turd like. I think it is refreshing to see a good guy in a book every now and then. And Hargrove wrote him to perfection. Sure he has issues...who doesn't? He is still one of my most favorite guys of 2013. Ab-so-lutely.
There was a one-two sucker punch nearing the end that had me literally gasping. My heart was in pieces for Fallon and I am sure you will be the same way when you get to it. How dare some people! How freakin’ dare them. I was coming unglued and needed Fallon to get her justice.
I can't wait until everyone gets a chance to read this one. Hargrove keeps getting better and better with her stories and I cannot wait for more of her stuff. I started this book late in the evening and did not put it down until nearly 1 am. I had to finish it before I fell asleep or I would have been up all night tossing and turning wondering what happened to them. Would they find their way back to each other? Yes, it was a must I finished the book before I went to sleep. So what are you waiting for? Go get it and prepare yourself for some fun times and epic romance!
December 17, 2013
Ryland Thomas Sinclair works as a romance author but because he is guy he uses a different name, R. T. Sinclair and his twin sister as a stand in. He is a hot and sexy man who avoids all relationships until he meets Fallon. Ryland can be pig headed a lot of the time in the book and for the most part he does it out of the goodness of his heart but when something comes out that should not he blames Fallon without even hearing her side.
Fallon McKinley is a strong woman who has kept going as things don’t go her way. Fallon is upset that her wealthy mother won’t help her ever, not with school or anything else. Fallon takes a trip she really can’t afford to meet her favorite author, R. T. Sinclair. Fallon falls for Ryland as they keep meeting each other all over Vegas.
The chemistry between Fallon and Ryland is blistering hot. I liked that they did not fall in love at first sight and that they tried to fight the attraction. The sex scenes were hot and spicy. I loved that they left a bit to the imagination and was not very descriptive. The biggest issue was Fallon and Ryland is communication, when big issues rise they don’t talk just assume.
My biggest grip is with Fallon. I get the part that we would like out parents to pay for our collage but in defense of her mother on this point (mostly because that came across as the biggest issue Fallon had with her mother) our parents are not required to pay for our collage and if they do that should be appreciated not expected. Just because her mother has money does not mean she is required to spend it on what Fallon wants because it’s not Fallon’s money. Now I am not saying that Fallon’s mother is a saint because she if far from it and I agree with Fallon’s decision at the end with her mother and how to handle her.
I found this story to be well written. The main and secondary characters were interesting and realistic. While this is not part of a series I would love to see a sequel with Ryland’s sister Tilly as the main character. Overall this was a great book. One I can see myself re-reading in the future.
Fallon McKinley is a strong woman who has kept going as things don’t go her way. Fallon is upset that her wealthy mother won’t help her ever, not with school or anything else. Fallon takes a trip she really can’t afford to meet her favorite author, R. T. Sinclair. Fallon falls for Ryland as they keep meeting each other all over Vegas.
The chemistry between Fallon and Ryland is blistering hot. I liked that they did not fall in love at first sight and that they tried to fight the attraction. The sex scenes were hot and spicy. I loved that they left a bit to the imagination and was not very descriptive. The biggest issue was Fallon and Ryland is communication, when big issues rise they don’t talk just assume.
My biggest grip is with Fallon. I get the part that we would like out parents to pay for our collage but in defense of her mother on this point (mostly because that came across as the biggest issue Fallon had with her mother) our parents are not required to pay for our collage and if they do that should be appreciated not expected. Just because her mother has money does not mean she is required to spend it on what Fallon wants because it’s not Fallon’s money. Now I am not saying that Fallon’s mother is a saint because she if far from it and I agree with Fallon’s decision at the end with her mother and how to handle her.
I found this story to be well written. The main and secondary characters were interesting and realistic. While this is not part of a series I would love to see a sequel with Ryland’s sister Tilly as the main character. Overall this was a great book. One I can see myself re-reading in the future.
March 4, 2014
This is the first book I've read by this author and sadly I believe it's going to be my last. The entire time I was reading this I kept thinking, she must be twelve and he really was no better. Her outbursts were crazy and I found myself rolling my eyes and putting my iPad down before forcing myself to continue. I gave this one a chance reading almost 60% into the book and it just didn't get any better for me. I'm regretting the .$99 spent here. :-/
Read
January 1, 2018More later but . . . this book has potential. It has a good premise but it just winds off in weird directions and it's not well edited and this is the most co-dependent dysfunctional relationship I have ever read.
November 25, 2013
Love it! Hargrove never disappoints!!!
December 30, 2013
I don't even
know where to start with this review -
So I'll start with saying that the way that
Fallon first met/ran into Ryland Thomas was classic - it made me laugh, and
think - man, something like that would so happen to me! And, of course she would run into him again -
this time with a little more sparks flying.
One thing leads to another and they end up in his hotel room - and
then....
Let me just
say - I don't think there has been another book where I wanted to reach in to the
book and grab a guy - this being Ryland Thomas - and back slap him a couple of
times. Yeah, I know he was hurt from a
previous relationship, but OMG - he just totally freaked on Fallon more than
once - and my heart just broke for her.
- understatement from R.T.But in all
of this - Fallon was amazing. This girl
had a rotten mother to say the least - and she struggled in life, just making
it day to day - but she had spunk and never gave up. She kept moving forward, even with all the
smack downs she got - and the thing that made me most proud is that she didn't
go after Ryland Thomas. She stood her
ground and let him come to her.
But their
story continues as she learns the truth about who he is, and who his twin
sister really is - she keeps their secret and their relationship grows and
develops. But, when the truth comes out
to the public about Ryland Thomas - there are misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and
betrayals.
This book
had me crazy at times, wishing Fallon and Ryland Thomas would work things out -
and then other times, thinking she can do so much better! I have to say there were definitely redeeming
moments for Ryland Thomas, as he finally grew up in regards to his relationship
with Fallon. This book will definitely
have your emotions all over the place - I'd like to know what you think of
Ryland Thomas!
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December 29, 2013
The best thing about this book is that I learned a new word: "stupidassery". And if it means what I think it means, then this book was just full of it! The other good thing about this book is that it's over. Other than that, there's not much more good I can say about it.
I'm still new to this book review/book blogger thing, so I feel really bad about giving poor reviews, especially when the book is by an author who has probably poured their heart and soul into writing it, and even more especially when I've been given the book for free to review for a blog tour. That being said, I do feel obligated to give my honest opinion wherever possible, and hopefully those involved, be it authors, fans, publicists or publishers, will realize that this is all my review is, one person's honest opinion.
Everything about this book was either over-the-top ridiculous or over-the-top cheesy. These descriptions may sound like the same thing, but they are not. I'll give you some examples:
Fallon slams into Ryland Thomas at the airport in Vegas and falls to her hands and knees with her ass stuck up in the air. When she recovers and stands up, she finds that her boob is hanging out of her top - RIDICULOUS!
Ryland Thomas gets tattoos with Fallon's name written into them, when they're NOT EVEN TOGETHER!!! - CHEESY!
One of Fallon's blogger friends picks her up at the airport wearing a HOT DOG COSTUME - RIDICULOUS!
Ryland Thomas is always saying things like, "Every time I kiss you, Fallon, I feel like I'm handing you a piece of my heart." - CHEESY!
Fallon's mom is sooooo jealous, spiteful, and mean that it's RIDICULOUS!
You get it, right? So that covers the writing and characters to some degree, but what about the plot? Well, it goes a little something like this:
Girl and boy meet by slamming into each other. There is immediate insta-lust between the two.
Girl and boy have sex. There is a misunderstanding and feelings are hurt.
Girl and boy make up and have sex.
There is a misunderstanding, feelings are hurt, and they break up.
Girl and boy make up and have sex.
Repeat ad nauseum.
I'm serious, I had to take a break and read some other books because the whole thing was getting so tedious. I'm not sure why, but, like a good little book blogger, I did go back and finish the book off. Things did not get better, and instead dragged on until the predictable conclusion.
If you think you would enjoy a story like this, then by all means, be my guest and read away. However, I think I'm going to step away from blog tours for a while, and only read what I really want to read.
I'm still new to this book review/book blogger thing, so I feel really bad about giving poor reviews, especially when the book is by an author who has probably poured their heart and soul into writing it, and even more especially when I've been given the book for free to review for a blog tour. That being said, I do feel obligated to give my honest opinion wherever possible, and hopefully those involved, be it authors, fans, publicists or publishers, will realize that this is all my review is, one person's honest opinion.
Everything about this book was either over-the-top ridiculous or over-the-top cheesy. These descriptions may sound like the same thing, but they are not. I'll give you some examples:
Fallon slams into Ryland Thomas at the airport in Vegas and falls to her hands and knees with her ass stuck up in the air. When she recovers and stands up, she finds that her boob is hanging out of her top - RIDICULOUS!
Ryland Thomas gets tattoos with Fallon's name written into them, when they're NOT EVEN TOGETHER!!! - CHEESY!
One of Fallon's blogger friends picks her up at the airport wearing a HOT DOG COSTUME - RIDICULOUS!
Ryland Thomas is always saying things like, "Every time I kiss you, Fallon, I feel like I'm handing you a piece of my heart." - CHEESY!
Fallon's mom is sooooo jealous, spiteful, and mean that it's RIDICULOUS!
You get it, right? So that covers the writing and characters to some degree, but what about the plot? Well, it goes a little something like this:
Girl and boy meet by slamming into each other. There is immediate insta-lust between the two.
Girl and boy have sex. There is a misunderstanding and feelings are hurt.
Girl and boy make up and have sex.
There is a misunderstanding, feelings are hurt, and they break up.
Girl and boy make up and have sex.
Repeat ad nauseum.
I'm serious, I had to take a break and read some other books because the whole thing was getting so tedious. I'm not sure why, but, like a good little book blogger, I did go back and finish the book off. Things did not get better, and instead dragged on until the predictable conclusion.
If you think you would enjoy a story like this, then by all means, be my guest and read away. However, I think I'm going to step away from blog tours for a while, and only read what I really want to read.
January 6, 2014
Well holy shit Anne!!! You had me on a roller coaster ride of emotions with this book!! Loved every bit of it.
And I must say that every woman needs a Ryland Thomas – OH MY FUCKING GAWD!!!
“Where there were two hearts, there is now only one; yours and mine together.”
Fallon and Ryland Thomas definitely are in for the ride of their lives in this book.
Fallon is a blog writer trying to find a job in the real world. She’s got a mountain of student debt & feels like she’ll never get her dream job. Ryland Thomas is a writer of romance novels but his fans & readers don’t know it. They think he’s his sister.
Fallon & Ryland Thomas literally run into each other at the Wicked Wenches Convention in Las Vegas. And that’s where the whirlwind of their friendship/relationship takes off.
“Little Fallon, you’re a dangerously sexy woman. I could do all sorts of dirty things to you right here.”
These two go through so much shit, I don’t know how either didn’t go crazy. Or do they??? The plot is very well thought out & delivered extremely well. I love the quirkiness in the characters. They are all very relatable and it’s extremely easy to get attached to them immediately.
“Endless with you Ryland Thomas.”
Anne – superb job on Exquisite Betrayal. You had me sucked in immediately & trapped in this story. I can’t wait to see what you bring us next.
***VISIT WWW.LOVENBOOOKS. COM FOR MORE REVIEWS***
And I must say that every woman needs a Ryland Thomas – OH MY FUCKING GAWD!!!
“Where there were two hearts, there is now only one; yours and mine together.”
Fallon and Ryland Thomas definitely are in for the ride of their lives in this book.
Fallon is a blog writer trying to find a job in the real world. She’s got a mountain of student debt & feels like she’ll never get her dream job. Ryland Thomas is a writer of romance novels but his fans & readers don’t know it. They think he’s his sister.
Fallon & Ryland Thomas literally run into each other at the Wicked Wenches Convention in Las Vegas. And that’s where the whirlwind of their friendship/relationship takes off.
“Little Fallon, you’re a dangerously sexy woman. I could do all sorts of dirty things to you right here.”
These two go through so much shit, I don’t know how either didn’t go crazy. Or do they??? The plot is very well thought out & delivered extremely well. I love the quirkiness in the characters. They are all very relatable and it’s extremely easy to get attached to them immediately.
“Endless with you Ryland Thomas.”
Anne – superb job on Exquisite Betrayal. You had me sucked in immediately & trapped in this story. I can’t wait to see what you bring us next.
***VISIT WWW.LOVENBOOOKS. COM FOR MORE REVIEWS***
September 9, 2016
First, a love story between an author and a blogger-AWESOME!
And not just because I am a blogger...who may or may not have mad girl crushes on many of the authors I follow…and MAY have asked some of them to marry me…but I digress.
Fallon is hilarious- the inner monologue running through her head had me dying. As soon as she lands in Las Vegas the fun begins. An aside- I love how she met her co-bloggers, very similar to how I met Janette! Both of us loving on books and their authors. Books rock.
Fallon keeps running into RT- everywhere. In the meantime she and her blogger girls meet Tilly –RT’s sister and the keeper of his biggest secret. One that comes back to blow up in everyone’s face.
RT is a little bit broken. He had his heart crushed by an ex and his best pal, and hasn’t really gotten over it. Then he bumps into Fallon and the sparks fly- plus a nipple…
The attraction is there for both of them. But life seems to get in the way. Then secrets and lies are revealed. And the secret that I thought would be the worst isn't.
I love how AMH makes both of the main characters work for this love. Even if they are meant to be together they both have to do some growing up and healing on their own. This was a funny and tender love story. With a good amount of wit and snark thrown in. Loved it.
And not just because I am a blogger...who may or may not have mad girl crushes on many of the authors I follow…and MAY have asked some of them to marry me…but I digress.
Fallon is hilarious- the inner monologue running through her head had me dying. As soon as she lands in Las Vegas the fun begins. An aside- I love how she met her co-bloggers, very similar to how I met Janette! Both of us loving on books and their authors. Books rock.
Fallon keeps running into RT- everywhere. In the meantime she and her blogger girls meet Tilly –RT’s sister and the keeper of his biggest secret. One that comes back to blow up in everyone’s face.
RT is a little bit broken. He had his heart crushed by an ex and his best pal, and hasn’t really gotten over it. Then he bumps into Fallon and the sparks fly- plus a nipple…
The attraction is there for both of them. But life seems to get in the way. Then secrets and lies are revealed. And the secret that I thought would be the worst isn't.
I love how AMH makes both of the main characters work for this love. Even if they are meant to be together they both have to do some growing up and healing on their own. This was a funny and tender love story. With a good amount of wit and snark thrown in. Loved it.
December 25, 2013
I loved Ryland the moment we got inside his head, "whoever that gorgeous girl is that rammed into me, I'd like to get to know her. No, scratch that. There's no liking about it. It's more like need." Oh Fallon you're as klutzy as me, "I am mortified because he did, after all, see my a** and nipple. Oh s***, the gorgeous piece of humanity has seen my nipple!" Sometimes, Ryland is a tad my naive:
"Fallon, don't be embarrassed about starting your period."
My breath rushes between my thinned lips. "It's not my period, Ryland. It was my effing virginity."
And you do not want a pi**ed off Fallon, I mean Ryland was kind of an idiot for leaving her in that position so I'm not feeling sorry for him at all, "right. So you pull out and leave me alone, in the shower. Yeah, that was romantic all right." But that's okay because Fallon affects Ryland all the time, "Fallon. Christ, I can't even tickle you without getting stiff." And once again Ryland effs up where Fallon is concerned, "you ignored me in front of her. You acted like I was your afterthought, just a casual someone you happened upon, and it killed me. It's still killing me. Do you want her, Ryland Thomas?" I loved this book!
"Fallon, don't be embarrassed about starting your period."
My breath rushes between my thinned lips. "It's not my period, Ryland. It was my effing virginity."
And you do not want a pi**ed off Fallon, I mean Ryland was kind of an idiot for leaving her in that position so I'm not feeling sorry for him at all, "right. So you pull out and leave me alone, in the shower. Yeah, that was romantic all right." But that's okay because Fallon affects Ryland all the time, "Fallon. Christ, I can't even tickle you without getting stiff." And once again Ryland effs up where Fallon is concerned, "you ignored me in front of her. You acted like I was your afterthought, just a casual someone you happened upon, and it killed me. It's still killing me. Do you want her, Ryland Thomas?" I loved this book!
April 7, 2016
They keep running into one another. It must be fate, or at least the first encounter was. Fallon and Ryland are both in Vegas for the Wicked Wenches Romance Con. Fallon is there for her blog and to meet with her blogger friends and to lose her virginity. Ryland is there posing as a "reporter" for the event when he actually happens to be famous author R.T. Sinclair who also happens to be Fallon's most favorite author. No one knows that R.T. Sinclair is male they all believe that the books are written by a woman and Rayland's sister actually poses as R.T. Sinclair so they can keep believing that.
In the short amount of time in Vegas the two have multiple run-ins and an undeniable attraction to one another, but Ryland isn't interested in a relationship, he has been burned before. Though Fallon is hard for him to resist and when he finally does give in he screws it up. That's pretty much a theme in this book. As soon as they get close he goes and screws it up. You have to read it to see if he finally gets it right.
It's a little frustrating with all the missed communications but all in all I really enjoyed this book. It was, at times, hilarious, sweet, and steamy. I loved the characters and the storyline!
In the short amount of time in Vegas the two have multiple run-ins and an undeniable attraction to one another, but Ryland isn't interested in a relationship, he has been burned before. Though Fallon is hard for him to resist and when he finally does give in he screws it up. That's pretty much a theme in this book. As soon as they get close he goes and screws it up. You have to read it to see if he finally gets it right.
It's a little frustrating with all the missed communications but all in all I really enjoyed this book. It was, at times, hilarious, sweet, and steamy. I loved the characters and the storyline!
dnf
January 21, 2014Well darn. DNF. I was really losing interest, and then I looked through some other reviews that didn't like it and they all had similar complaints, so I figured it wouldn't be getting any better for me. I wasn't really a fan of the writing style in this one....I can't even pinpoint what was wrong, but honestly? I thought this was a debut novel....turns out I was wrong. So I guess it's a style thing. And I just didn't really care for the character's all that much. And damn, after the whole virginity mess and then the yelling in the car ride back to Lake Tahoe? Yeah, I guess I'm dibs out. The good news?? Try the free sample of this one -- I knew within the first few pages that I wasn't big on the style, but thought it would change. So if you're not finding any problems, then yay for you b/c this one might work for you!! If not, then you're in the same boat as me....they can't all be winners right?
August 9, 2016
Would have been so cool if it was properly written.
Read
December 18, 2013 I'm putting this one aside. I just am not feeling it at all with the characters.
March 28, 2014
12/29/13
Okay, so I'm probably going to close 2013 with this outstanding book - amazing, heartfelt, romantic, hilarious and just so magnificent! Every woman should have their own "Ryland Thomas".... And, every woman should be their own "Fallon"!!! Can't wait to read the next A.M. Hargrove novel!!!!!
"We are only bound by our own limitations"....
3/28/14
***POSSIBLE SPOILERS PRESENT WITHIN REVIEW***
Loved, loved, loved this book! Its two main characters are funny and seductive, but most of all so likeable. The author pulls the reader in from the first few pages as a young woman down on her luck with a mediocre job, student loans up the ying-yang, and a love life that is for the most part pathetically boring and nonexistent tries to pick up the pieces of her life. On the way to a writer’s conference in Las Vegas to meet her favorite author, R.T. Sinclair, with her four blogging buddies, Fallon McKinley is hilariously knocked to the floor while collecting her luggage. She is such a mess with her clothes astrewn, her ass up in the air, and the embarrassing perdicament just furthers to complicate her life by unveiling her boob for everyone standing around to oogle. She lifts her eyes from this humiliating circumstance, and what does she see but intense and mesmerizing eyes staring back with enough cause for her to lose all sense of existence. The gaze staring back at her had the most tantalizing green eyes imagineable. And, they belonged to the most beautiful man she’s ever laid eyes on. With his dark blonde hair, sexy smirk, and lucious body, the guy was over-flowing with testosterone. And, when he spoke to ask if she was okay, that panty-melting British accent was, oh, so heart-stopping. But, that’s a fleeting moment because when her blogging pals appear, “Mr. Hottie” has disappeared in the crowded airport. No biggie, though, because this is a chance for Fallon to have fun and forget her troubles. Troubles that also include her unfortunate association with the “mom from hell.” Fallon and her mother have never gotten along. Her parents divorced when she was a young, and she always lived with her dad since then. But, when her dad unexpectantly died in an accident, and she was left all alone, she had no choice but to go live with her mother and her dweeb-of-a-husband. Let’s just say that her living experience with her mom has always been strained and stiffling. Airless – so suffocatingly cold and unfeeling. It was nothing like the loving and nurturing relationship that she had with her father. But, Fallon accepted it and tried to not deal with her mom unless she absolutely had to. So, being here with her friends is now a time to cut loose and, yes, meet her all-time favorite author. And, that’s exactly what she intends on doing until she one again spies “Mr. Hottie” at a bar where her and her group of friends are partying on the town. He’s just so delicious looking, and when he asks her to dance while she’s staring into those green emerald pools, how can she possibly say no. Ryland Thomas Sinclair is keeping a huge wopper of a secret, and if it gets out, that could be the end of his explosive career. He writes novels. And, not just any novels. But women’s romance novels. And, he’s good at it! Excellent, in fact! Fallon, just adores his novels. She’s read every single solitary one. But, she has no idea who he actually is, and he has no near future intention of ever telling her either. With the help of Ryland Thomas’ sister, Tilly, he has kept his true identity concealed. Tilly has always toured with him for book signings and conferences so that his secret stays intact. He was always worried that his audience of women readers wouldn’t take him seriously and, therefore, limit his chances of becoming an established author. Hence the need for keeping his true identity a secret. Unfortunately, though, when Ryland Thomas lets down his guard and pursues a relationship with Fallon, the idea of finally letting in another individual with his unsuspecting secret could prove to be most disastrous.
Awesome find! This is my first A.M. Hargrove novel, and believe you me, it won’t be my last. Ms. Hargrove takes a most insecure young woman and makes her most vulnerable while working on her strength and confidence of love. In the beginning of the novel, Fallon just seemed weak and insecure, but by the end, she was strong and positive while liking herself so much more. She had the courage to stand up for herself even though the circumstances surrounding a misconception of the truth had potential to destroy her quest for happiness.
Ryland Thomas’ character was smoldering with sex appeal, but he also had a vulnerable side. His experience with women was limited after a relationship gone bad had a long-lasting ability to enable him to trust another woman again. He was basically unable to let a woman see his unprotected tender side that overflowed with feeling and intensity. He guarded his heart more thoroughly against emotions that were not so obviously visible. He was a romantic male that thought with his heart and was loyal, honest, and protective to the ones he loved and adored. He made some pretty lousy assumptions regarding Fallon, however, which cost him dearly, but he always was willing to admit to and accept his mistakes. He consistently tried to correct his errors and make things right. Who wouldn’t love a gorgeous guy who set a down-on-her-luck woman’s heart on fire while trying like hell to be the one person she trusts to believe in her when her life was such a mess? I loved this couple together and was rooting for them to find their way back to each other.
Ms. Hargrove created a fantastic cast of supporting characters as well that were fun and evenly matched to the main characters’ qualities. This was an entertaining and romantic read that boasted of a closeness and inseparable relationship that claimed a sound bond of undeniable intimacy and loving connection satiated with energy and fascination. This was a thrilling and refreshing novel that I would highly recommend to fellow readers. One not to be overlooked!
“Two lives, one heart, one love, endlessly” ~ Fallon & Ryland Thomas
Okay, so I'm probably going to close 2013 with this outstanding book - amazing, heartfelt, romantic, hilarious and just so magnificent! Every woman should have their own "Ryland Thomas".... And, every woman should be their own "Fallon"!!! Can't wait to read the next A.M. Hargrove novel!!!!!
"We are only bound by our own limitations"....
3/28/14
***POSSIBLE SPOILERS PRESENT WITHIN REVIEW***
Loved, loved, loved this book! Its two main characters are funny and seductive, but most of all so likeable. The author pulls the reader in from the first few pages as a young woman down on her luck with a mediocre job, student loans up the ying-yang, and a love life that is for the most part pathetically boring and nonexistent tries to pick up the pieces of her life. On the way to a writer’s conference in Las Vegas to meet her favorite author, R.T. Sinclair, with her four blogging buddies, Fallon McKinley is hilariously knocked to the floor while collecting her luggage. She is such a mess with her clothes astrewn, her ass up in the air, and the embarrassing perdicament just furthers to complicate her life by unveiling her boob for everyone standing around to oogle. She lifts her eyes from this humiliating circumstance, and what does she see but intense and mesmerizing eyes staring back with enough cause for her to lose all sense of existence. The gaze staring back at her had the most tantalizing green eyes imagineable. And, they belonged to the most beautiful man she’s ever laid eyes on. With his dark blonde hair, sexy smirk, and lucious body, the guy was over-flowing with testosterone. And, when he spoke to ask if she was okay, that panty-melting British accent was, oh, so heart-stopping. But, that’s a fleeting moment because when her blogging pals appear, “Mr. Hottie” has disappeared in the crowded airport. No biggie, though, because this is a chance for Fallon to have fun and forget her troubles. Troubles that also include her unfortunate association with the “mom from hell.” Fallon and her mother have never gotten along. Her parents divorced when she was a young, and she always lived with her dad since then. But, when her dad unexpectantly died in an accident, and she was left all alone, she had no choice but to go live with her mother and her dweeb-of-a-husband. Let’s just say that her living experience with her mom has always been strained and stiffling. Airless – so suffocatingly cold and unfeeling. It was nothing like the loving and nurturing relationship that she had with her father. But, Fallon accepted it and tried to not deal with her mom unless she absolutely had to. So, being here with her friends is now a time to cut loose and, yes, meet her all-time favorite author. And, that’s exactly what she intends on doing until she one again spies “Mr. Hottie” at a bar where her and her group of friends are partying on the town. He’s just so delicious looking, and when he asks her to dance while she’s staring into those green emerald pools, how can she possibly say no. Ryland Thomas Sinclair is keeping a huge wopper of a secret, and if it gets out, that could be the end of his explosive career. He writes novels. And, not just any novels. But women’s romance novels. And, he’s good at it! Excellent, in fact! Fallon, just adores his novels. She’s read every single solitary one. But, she has no idea who he actually is, and he has no near future intention of ever telling her either. With the help of Ryland Thomas’ sister, Tilly, he has kept his true identity concealed. Tilly has always toured with him for book signings and conferences so that his secret stays intact. He was always worried that his audience of women readers wouldn’t take him seriously and, therefore, limit his chances of becoming an established author. Hence the need for keeping his true identity a secret. Unfortunately, though, when Ryland Thomas lets down his guard and pursues a relationship with Fallon, the idea of finally letting in another individual with his unsuspecting secret could prove to be most disastrous.
Awesome find! This is my first A.M. Hargrove novel, and believe you me, it won’t be my last. Ms. Hargrove takes a most insecure young woman and makes her most vulnerable while working on her strength and confidence of love. In the beginning of the novel, Fallon just seemed weak and insecure, but by the end, she was strong and positive while liking herself so much more. She had the courage to stand up for herself even though the circumstances surrounding a misconception of the truth had potential to destroy her quest for happiness.
Ryland Thomas’ character was smoldering with sex appeal, but he also had a vulnerable side. His experience with women was limited after a relationship gone bad had a long-lasting ability to enable him to trust another woman again. He was basically unable to let a woman see his unprotected tender side that overflowed with feeling and intensity. He guarded his heart more thoroughly against emotions that were not so obviously visible. He was a romantic male that thought with his heart and was loyal, honest, and protective to the ones he loved and adored. He made some pretty lousy assumptions regarding Fallon, however, which cost him dearly, but he always was willing to admit to and accept his mistakes. He consistently tried to correct his errors and make things right. Who wouldn’t love a gorgeous guy who set a down-on-her-luck woman’s heart on fire while trying like hell to be the one person she trusts to believe in her when her life was such a mess? I loved this couple together and was rooting for them to find their way back to each other.
Ms. Hargrove created a fantastic cast of supporting characters as well that were fun and evenly matched to the main characters’ qualities. This was an entertaining and romantic read that boasted of a closeness and inseparable relationship that claimed a sound bond of undeniable intimacy and loving connection satiated with energy and fascination. This was a thrilling and refreshing novel that I would highly recommend to fellow readers. One not to be overlooked!
“Two lives, one heart, one love, endlessly” ~ Fallon & Ryland Thomas
January 7, 2025
I actually really enjoyed this book. It was well written, engaging, the plot flowed really well and the characters were relatable. I would have liked a bit better explanation for why he kept himself a secret. I thought he had severe anxiety and that was why the sister filled in for him, but other than an initial hint of anxiety, that wasn’t really the way his character acted. For the rest of the story it seemed like he kept it a secret because he was male author.
The scene in the car where they argue initially was also weird to me and didn’t fit the situation. Again, if he had severe social anxiety and the pressure of taking her V was somehow too much for him, then maybe it would have made more sense.
Despite that, it was a good book and I liked that the FMC was practical and her reactions were straightforward and direct. She didn’t give in to him until she was ready and he had “fixed” the things he had done and there was no BBS (which I can’t stand).
The scene in the car where they argue initially was also weird to me and didn’t fit the situation. Again, if he had severe social anxiety and the pressure of taking her V was somehow too much for him, then maybe it would have made more sense.
Despite that, it was a good book and I liked that the FMC was practical and her reactions were straightforward and direct. She didn’t give in to him until she was ready and he had “fixed” the things he had done and there was no BBS (which I can’t stand).
December 27, 2019
I so wanted to like this book, but I couldn't even finish it sadly. I love the cover, I love the summary, but dear God, the characters were just terrible.
R. T. Is insecure and awkward, which you wouldn't think considering he's a romance author.
And Fallon is just a mess. Always stumbling, falling, tripping. I mean I get that some people ate like that, but it was over the top for her.
So I'm truly bummed, but I just couldn't continue this train wreck of a book. I'm sure other readers will enjoy it though!
R. T. Is insecure and awkward, which you wouldn't think considering he's a romance author.
And Fallon is just a mess. Always stumbling, falling, tripping. I mean I get that some people ate like that, but it was over the top for her.
So I'm truly bummed, but I just couldn't continue this train wreck of a book. I'm sure other readers will enjoy it though!
May 2, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
This book immediately drew me in with the blurb. It is definitely one of the most unique books that I have read, and I love that it was so different from what else is out there. As much as I loved the idea of this book though, I did have some problems with it. I really wanted to love it, and unfortunately I just wasn't able to. I will admit that I did enjoy parts of it though, and that is what kept me reading until the end.
Fallon is a book blogger and reviewer. She is headed to Vegas for a book convention and to finally meet up with her blogger friends. While leaving the airport, she runs into a really hot guy. They have an instant attraction, but they go their separate ways. Later on though they run into each other a few more times. Fallon thinks that the hot mystery guy Ryland is a freelance writer. However, he is really her favorite romance author R.T. Sinclair. Ryland Thomas knows that he needs to protect his identity from being found out. If his female fans found out that a man was behind the books, he believes that they wouldn't support him. So his sister Tilly helps him by making the public appearances for him. But the more times that Ryland and Fallon run into each other and the closer she gets to his sister Tilly, the more he knows he needs to open up to her. Fallon and Ryland are both no stranger to loss, and have suffered in the past. They both have issues keeping them from having successful relationships, but their connection makes them both realize that what they have is more than either of them have ever felt before. But in order to have a future together, they will have to move on from their pasts. Just as it appears that things are finally coming together, a major miscommunication occurs and wrecks all the progress that they have made. Can they lay everything on the table and learn to trust each other, or will they continue to let their insecurities ruin any chance of a life together?
I liked Ryland Thomas. I really wanted to love him, but he just kept acting completely stupid. There were so many times that he would seem to figure everything out, and then he would go and screw up even worse than before! I just don't understand why his character never seemed to really get with the program. I understand that he had been hurt really badly, but for the strength of the feelings he claimed to have for Fallon it just didn't make sense the things he did. I really wanted him to grow up and take a risk, but at the first sign of trouble he just shut down and ran. The fact that he never gave her a chance to explain anything was really what I didn't care for the most. He was thoughtful when it came to her though, and I liked how he was always looking out for her and trying to take care of her. I just wish that he would have also put more trust into her and the connection that they were forming. I liked Fallon for the most part. I did think that she was a bit of a doormat though. She let her mom treat her completely awful and continued to just take it. She also let Ryland get away with way more that most women would. I understand mistakes and allowing someone to have more chances. But it really seemed like she would make a big deal of how hurt she was and how she couldn't go through everything again only to almost instantly forgive him. I just didn't understand how she could allow everything to just immediately be smoothed over with almost no consequences and very little apology. Fallon and Ryland did have a lot of chemistry together. I think that they were hot together and definitely were able to generate a lot of steam.
My main problem with this book though was the pacing. I felt like this story moved extremely slowly and tended to drag quite a bit. I found myself getting bored easily at parts, and wanting to skip ahead. I kept thinking that I had to be getting close to the end, only to look down and realize that I still had half the book to go. Things just got too tedious and repetitive, and I kept waiting for Ryland to finally stop screwing up only for it to happen again. I also thought that there were a lot of things that happened that were either completely cheesy or flat out ridiculous. I will be the first to admit that sometimes a bit of cheese is a good thing...I am a girl after all. Sometimes you just want to soak up the romance and love and completely immerse yourself in a relationship like that. But this one was a bit too over the top and took it to a whole different level. I thought that this book had a really promising premise and I think that it could have been one of my favorites. The execution though just didn't live up to what I had thought it was going to, and unfortunately I thought that this one just fell flat on delivering. I think that there are plenty of romance readers out there that will find this one to be a really enjoyable read, and there is an HEA. If you like your romance to be a bit cheesy and over the top, I recommend that you give this one a try. For me personally, this one just wasn't what I had been hoping for and as much as I really wanted to love this book I wasn't able to.
**ARC provided Inkslinger PR**
This book immediately drew me in with the blurb. It is definitely one of the most unique books that I have read, and I love that it was so different from what else is out there. As much as I loved the idea of this book though, I did have some problems with it. I really wanted to love it, and unfortunately I just wasn't able to. I will admit that I did enjoy parts of it though, and that is what kept me reading until the end.
Fallon is a book blogger and reviewer. She is headed to Vegas for a book convention and to finally meet up with her blogger friends. While leaving the airport, she runs into a really hot guy. They have an instant attraction, but they go their separate ways. Later on though they run into each other a few more times. Fallon thinks that the hot mystery guy Ryland is a freelance writer. However, he is really her favorite romance author R.T. Sinclair. Ryland Thomas knows that he needs to protect his identity from being found out. If his female fans found out that a man was behind the books, he believes that they wouldn't support him. So his sister Tilly helps him by making the public appearances for him. But the more times that Ryland and Fallon run into each other and the closer she gets to his sister Tilly, the more he knows he needs to open up to her. Fallon and Ryland are both no stranger to loss, and have suffered in the past. They both have issues keeping them from having successful relationships, but their connection makes them both realize that what they have is more than either of them have ever felt before. But in order to have a future together, they will have to move on from their pasts. Just as it appears that things are finally coming together, a major miscommunication occurs and wrecks all the progress that they have made. Can they lay everything on the table and learn to trust each other, or will they continue to let their insecurities ruin any chance of a life together?
I liked Ryland Thomas. I really wanted to love him, but he just kept acting completely stupid. There were so many times that he would seem to figure everything out, and then he would go and screw up even worse than before! I just don't understand why his character never seemed to really get with the program. I understand that he had been hurt really badly, but for the strength of the feelings he claimed to have for Fallon it just didn't make sense the things he did. I really wanted him to grow up and take a risk, but at the first sign of trouble he just shut down and ran. The fact that he never gave her a chance to explain anything was really what I didn't care for the most. He was thoughtful when it came to her though, and I liked how he was always looking out for her and trying to take care of her. I just wish that he would have also put more trust into her and the connection that they were forming. I liked Fallon for the most part. I did think that she was a bit of a doormat though. She let her mom treat her completely awful and continued to just take it. She also let Ryland get away with way more that most women would. I understand mistakes and allowing someone to have more chances. But it really seemed like she would make a big deal of how hurt she was and how she couldn't go through everything again only to almost instantly forgive him. I just didn't understand how she could allow everything to just immediately be smoothed over with almost no consequences and very little apology. Fallon and Ryland did have a lot of chemistry together. I think that they were hot together and definitely were able to generate a lot of steam.
My main problem with this book though was the pacing. I felt like this story moved extremely slowly and tended to drag quite a bit. I found myself getting bored easily at parts, and wanting to skip ahead. I kept thinking that I had to be getting close to the end, only to look down and realize that I still had half the book to go. Things just got too tedious and repetitive, and I kept waiting for Ryland to finally stop screwing up only for it to happen again. I also thought that there were a lot of things that happened that were either completely cheesy or flat out ridiculous. I will be the first to admit that sometimes a bit of cheese is a good thing...I am a girl after all. Sometimes you just want to soak up the romance and love and completely immerse yourself in a relationship like that. But this one was a bit too over the top and took it to a whole different level. I thought that this book had a really promising premise and I think that it could have been one of my favorites. The execution though just didn't live up to what I had thought it was going to, and unfortunately I thought that this one just fell flat on delivering. I think that there are plenty of romance readers out there that will find this one to be a really enjoyable read, and there is an HEA. If you like your romance to be a bit cheesy and over the top, I recommend that you give this one a try. For me personally, this one just wasn't what I had been hoping for and as much as I really wanted to love this book I wasn't able to.
**ARC provided Inkslinger PR**
November 27, 2023
Reading this gave me equisite pain.
Cue Rhyland Thomas for 777777 times.
Cue Rhyland Thomas for 777777 times.
August 25, 2024
It was a good story and good read.
January 2, 2014
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Ryland Thomas isa male Romance Author – a best-selling MALE Romance Author. Can it get any more interesting than that? Ah yes, the female character is a BOOK BLOGGER – a virgin book blogger who comes to a convention in Vegas not just to meet her favorite author but to pop her cherry as well.
Fallon McKinley has a lot on her plate – her student loans, mountainous debts, and her virginity. Going to Vegas and joining the Wicked Wenches Romance Con would crush out one of her problems. That would be the latter part. She wanted to meet her favorite romance author, R.T. Sinclair. But she keeps running into a green-eyed demi-god with a sexy English accent. The attraction was clear, it made her a little giddy, a little excited – she still didn’t know that this man, is her favorite romance author.
Hiding behind his twin sister who poses as R.T. Sinclair, Ryland Thomas wanted to keep his anonymity to the world. After all, how many male romance authors are there? Every female in the world loves him, but what they didn’t know that behind his swoon-worthy romantic novels is a broken person whose heart is still shattered from a betrayal by his loved-one. Meeting Fallon, all his inhibitions of diving into a relationship was suddenly nowhere to be found. She’s irresistible, and despite the walls he puts up in between them – she had managed to climb and crumble every single one of them. Before he knows it, she had his heart in her hands.
Everything was just going smoothly, they were having the grand time of their lives, until an EXQUISITE BETRAYAL, or should I say, a major miscommunication broke them apart.
I wonder, how many times did he need to f**ck up until she stops to forgive him? Both of them had suffered enough from the past – him from his parents sudden death at a young age, and the heartbreak caused by his former girlfriend and Fallon from her father’s death and her mother’s insensitivity. Despite the fact that the latter might border being a push-over, I still like her. She has a big heart that is ready to forgive. She might have big problems with regards to money matters, but she did welcome help without being a leech. I was wondering what in the world is wrong with her mother? How can she just watch her suffer and blame her for everything? Argh. After her father died, she had no one.
I had an inclination of what will happen, but I wonder HOW it will come about. How their perfect relationship will crumble into pieces…
Someone had caused them trouble, it was intentional, unprofessional and I hated not just this person, but Ryland Thomas as well. How dare he claim that he loved her so much when he can’t even spend a single minute hearing her out? It may have took her a couple of days, but Fallon, stood up – stronger than ever. She fought with everything that she had to clear her name, and explain to Ryland her side. But Ryland broke her heart once more when she caught him waiting for someone other than her…
It will take a whole lot of groveling, crawling and whining before she forgives him. Thank goodness for that. She might have a big heart, but she finally got herself some pride.
My first A.M. Hargrove novel, and I have enjoyed it. I loved Fallon, her wits, her heart, and what made me loved her more is how her character had evolved in this novel. I can’t get the Ryland’s accent out of my head – he might be sexy as hell, and can write the most romantic stories, but I wonder how can he manage to do that and still do stupid things? Nevertheless, despite his previous shortcomings, he redeemed himself big-time. Exquisite Betrayal will leave you in-love, breathless, and squirming in bed with all those hot, steamy, sexy scenes.
★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Ryland Thomas is
Fallon McKinley has a lot on her plate – her student loans, mountainous debts, and her virginity. Going to Vegas and joining the Wicked Wenches Romance Con would crush out one of her problems. That would be the latter part. She wanted to meet her favorite romance author, R.T. Sinclair. But she keeps running into a green-eyed demi-god with a sexy English accent. The attraction was clear, it made her a little giddy, a little excited – she still didn’t know that this man, is her favorite romance author.
Hiding behind his twin sister who poses as R.T. Sinclair, Ryland Thomas wanted to keep his anonymity to the world. After all, how many male romance authors are there? Every female in the world loves him, but what they didn’t know that behind his swoon-worthy romantic novels is a broken person whose heart is still shattered from a betrayal by his loved-one. Meeting Fallon, all his inhibitions of diving into a relationship was suddenly nowhere to be found. She’s irresistible, and despite the walls he puts up in between them – she had managed to climb and crumble every single one of them. Before he knows it, she had his heart in her hands.
Everything was just going smoothly, they were having the grand time of their lives, until an EXQUISITE BETRAYAL, or should I say, a major miscommunication broke them apart.
I wonder, how many times did he need to f**ck up until she stops to forgive him? Both of them had suffered enough from the past – him from his parents sudden death at a young age, and the heartbreak caused by his former girlfriend and Fallon from her father’s death and her mother’s insensitivity. Despite the fact that the latter might border being a push-over, I still like her. She has a big heart that is ready to forgive. She might have big problems with regards to money matters, but she did welcome help without being a leech. I was wondering what in the world is wrong with her mother? How can she just watch her suffer and blame her for everything? Argh. After her father died, she had no one.
I had an inclination of what will happen, but I wonder HOW it will come about. How their perfect relationship will crumble into pieces…
Someone had caused them trouble, it was intentional, unprofessional and I hated not just this person, but Ryland Thomas as well. How dare he claim that he loved her so much when he can’t even spend a single minute hearing her out? It may have took her a couple of days, but Fallon, stood up – stronger than ever. She fought with everything that she had to clear her name, and explain to Ryland her side. But Ryland broke her heart once more when she caught him waiting for someone other than her…
You owe Fallon the starts, the moon and every fucking thing in this goddamn universe.
It will take a whole lot of groveling, crawling and whining before she forgives him. Thank goodness for that. She might have a big heart, but she finally got herself some pride.
My first A.M. Hargrove novel, and I have enjoyed it. I loved Fallon, her wits, her heart, and what made me loved her more is how her character had evolved in this novel. I can’t get the Ryland’s accent out of my head – he might be sexy as hell, and can write the most romantic stories, but I wonder how can he manage to do that and still do stupid things? Nevertheless, despite his previous shortcomings, he redeemed himself big-time. Exquisite Betrayal will leave you in-love, breathless, and squirming in bed with all those hot, steamy, sexy scenes.
★ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.★
December 20, 2013
http://ripeforreader.blogspot.com/201...
My rating: 3.5 of 5⭐️
Excited for her weekend away in Las Vegas, Fallon McKinley has a few goals in mind. First off, to finally hang out with her online friends and fellow bloggers, to meet her favorite romance author, R.T. Sinclair and lastly to lose her virginity. But she is barely off the plane or she ends up on her ass with her boob hanging out of her shirt being ogled by the most glorious set of green eyes she has ever seen on a man equally as scrumptious. How embarrassing! Only to bump into the same guy twice more under no less mortifying conditions.
Being a male romance writer is not usually the greatest for sales, which is why, Ryland Thomas Sinclair asked his twin sister years ago to attend these public appearances for him. Nobody but the two of them and his agent are aware of R.T. SInclair's true identity. Which is part of the reason why, even though he thinks she is the most adorable and gorgeous creature, he tries to create distance between himself and the clumsy but cute blogger. But her draw is just too much for him to resist.
Betrayal is something that Ryland is very sensitive to, having been at the receiving end of it, and he has avoided the possibility by simply not becoming involved. Being with Fallon, however, feels like it could be more than just a pastime and the thought of it sends him running in the other direction, leaving Fallon pretty devastated. She has her own history of mistreatment by the opposite sex, leaving her with insecurities and Ryland is adding on to it. Especially when he doesn't just run once........
Ryland will have to do some serious grovelling will he ever have a chance with Fallon again....
*****
Interesting trope with a good dose of humour!!!
A fun story line with an interesting twist at the end that actually added overall value to the story.
The book started off fairly good, with a strong sense of a comedic romance. The characters were somewhat over the top and without a lot of depth, but it fit in the overall style. The first 30% of the book is quick-witted and steeped in humour, with a loose and free style of writing.
Then some drama was added to the story and suddenly I needed to look at Fallon and R.T. in a more serious light, and that is where I ran into a bit of trouble.......the tone of the story had changed a bit on me, and it didn't fit with the characters I had in front of me. Some of the more serious components were repeated a few times as if to make sure we are aware of their importance, just like some of the dialogue between R.T. and Fallon was at times a bit repetitive. All this occurred through the middle section of the book, which dragged a bit.
Towards the last third of the book, the story entered it's most interesting phase, where intrigue was added, causing some major damage to both protagonists and triggered another breakdown of communication. This was the section of the story where I have to admit I was most engaged and even blinked a tear or two.
EXQUISITE BETRAYAL was by no means a challenging read, so an easy one to throw in your bag or suitcase and read wherever, whenever......
✨A unique, witty and at times touching read!✨
**ARC provided in return for an honest review.**
My rating: 3.5 of 5⭐️
Excited for her weekend away in Las Vegas, Fallon McKinley has a few goals in mind. First off, to finally hang out with her online friends and fellow bloggers, to meet her favorite romance author, R.T. Sinclair and lastly to lose her virginity. But she is barely off the plane or she ends up on her ass with her boob hanging out of her shirt being ogled by the most glorious set of green eyes she has ever seen on a man equally as scrumptious. How embarrassing! Only to bump into the same guy twice more under no less mortifying conditions.
Being a male romance writer is not usually the greatest for sales, which is why, Ryland Thomas Sinclair asked his twin sister years ago to attend these public appearances for him. Nobody but the two of them and his agent are aware of R.T. SInclair's true identity. Which is part of the reason why, even though he thinks she is the most adorable and gorgeous creature, he tries to create distance between himself and the clumsy but cute blogger. But her draw is just too much for him to resist.
Betrayal is something that Ryland is very sensitive to, having been at the receiving end of it, and he has avoided the possibility by simply not becoming involved. Being with Fallon, however, feels like it could be more than just a pastime and the thought of it sends him running in the other direction, leaving Fallon pretty devastated. She has her own history of mistreatment by the opposite sex, leaving her with insecurities and Ryland is adding on to it. Especially when he doesn't just run once........
Ryland will have to do some serious grovelling will he ever have a chance with Fallon again....
*****
Interesting trope with a good dose of humour!!!
A fun story line with an interesting twist at the end that actually added overall value to the story.
The book started off fairly good, with a strong sense of a comedic romance. The characters were somewhat over the top and without a lot of depth, but it fit in the overall style. The first 30% of the book is quick-witted and steeped in humour, with a loose and free style of writing.
Then some drama was added to the story and suddenly I needed to look at Fallon and R.T. in a more serious light, and that is where I ran into a bit of trouble.......the tone of the story had changed a bit on me, and it didn't fit with the characters I had in front of me. Some of the more serious components were repeated a few times as if to make sure we are aware of their importance, just like some of the dialogue between R.T. and Fallon was at times a bit repetitive. All this occurred through the middle section of the book, which dragged a bit.
Towards the last third of the book, the story entered it's most interesting phase, where intrigue was added, causing some major damage to both protagonists and triggered another breakdown of communication. This was the section of the story where I have to admit I was most engaged and even blinked a tear or two.
EXQUISITE BETRAYAL was by no means a challenging read, so an easy one to throw in your bag or suitcase and read wherever, whenever......
✨A unique, witty and at times touching read!✨
**ARC provided in return for an honest review.**
December 21, 2013
I was desperate to read this book once I found out about it! I've never read a book that focuses on a blogger and an author, so I was looking forward to seeing what the author did with it! This was also the first book by this author that I has read, so I was looking forward to seeing how I found it! I enjoyed this book, but there was something about it that made me not love it, love it! It was a good book and all that, but I just found it a bit slow! It started off really well for me and I loved getting to know the characters and form a bond with them, but then it sort of started to lead up to a big secret being found out and then once it did, the plot changed a lot! The plot was interesting though and I do have to say that I liked what the author did with the author/blogger relationship! It was pretty, damn hot if I'm honest! I did think that there were quite a few secrets in the plot which fueled the plot and plus, I loved the idea of the main female character being a blogger and going to a book convention! I thought that was so cool and the main character reacted in the same way I hope I do when I go to my first book convention next year lol! The characters were awesome! Fallon was the main female character and she was so funny! I loved how witty and sarcastic she was, even when she didn't mean to be! She had a really soft side to her as well and she kept going when things got rough! I sort of admired that about her! She also didn't have the best relationship with her mother, so my heart went out to her for that! I loved her relationship with her blogger friends though! It reminded me so much of my relationship with my blogger friends! Ryland Thomas was the main male character and his name really annoyed me! He wanted people to call him by his full name instead of just shortening it to Ryland, but I definitely would have shortened it if I ever had a conversation with him! His name's a mouthful, so I'm going to refer to him as Ryland lol! Ryland wasn't as hot as I was expecting him to be too be honest! I was expecting to be swooning at him, but I found that I liked him, but that sometimes he was a bit controlling! I loved this relationship and the way he was with Fallon though! I also understood why he wanted to keep his author identity a secret and my heart did go out to him when his big secret was revealed! I also loved how he covered up his author identity as events! It was a such a great idea! I enjoyed this book being written from both Fallon and Ryland's point of views, as it added a lot more to the story and I loved getting to see their relationship develop through both of their eyes! I can completely understand why this book is a standalone as everything was resolved and the main characters relationship was ended beautifully! The ending was a little quick in my opinion though! Especially the epilogue! I felt that it summed the story up in a way, but I was expecting it to show Fallon and Ryland's relationship so many years down the line! I really wanted to know if they had any children lol! The cover for this book is what first attracted me to it! It's so pretty and hot! I love the colouring as well! Big thank you to A.M. Hargrove for an ARC of Exquisite Betrayal and to InkSlinger PR for having me on the Blog Tour!
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