What do you think?
Rate this book
The Billionaire's Paradigm #1-7
The Billionaire's Paradigm: His Absolute Purpose
From USA Today Bestselling Author Cerys du Lys ~
Trapped in a library during a blizzard, Elise finds herself forced into isolation with Lucent Storme, the untoward magnate who's rumored to have more than a few forbidden desires and darker passions. Both appalled and allured by his sordid sophistication, struggling to come to terms with what she knows and what she feels, she finds herself drawn to this man who seems both powerful and fractured all at once. Lucent's secrets and dominant obsessions may be more than Elise can handle, though, and her gentle curiosity is just as likely to cause her pain and heartbreak as it is to bring her happiness...
(A Cerys du Lys contemporary romance novel)
When Elise Tanner finds herself trapped in a library with Lucent Storme during a record-breaking blizzard, she panics. He might not know her, but she knows more than enough about him. Besides being the newly appointed Director of Public Relations for Landseer Enterprises and an influential business magnate, there are rumors that he has a taste for the darker side of sexuality.
He seems fake, false, excessively demanding, too self-important by far, and... with over six feet of snow expected and the streets completely unmanageable, there's absolutely no way for her to escape him.
He's so predatory and dominant, yet beneath his rakish and enigmatic exterior, she senses there's more to this mysterious and isolated man. He's charming and intelligent (though reserved and terse), begrudgingly handsome, and surprisingly thoughtful. Unintentionally, Elise finds herself drawn to Lucent in a way that defies logic.
Unfortunately the snow may be the least of her worries. One disaster begets another and not everything is as it seems with the man who holds a sole singular obsession above all others. Will Elise's curiosity be her undoing? Is she unwittingly playing right into Lucent's hand; his dark desires and commanding personality? Or can she discover His Absolute Purpose, the reason he hides himself behind a facade of formality, and gain a deeper, more emotional and intimate connection with the compelling Director of Public Relations?
The snow may have brought them together, but it can't keep them together forever. What happens when the ice begins to melt?
Powerful, sensual, and commanding. This poignant story of love, attraction, and temptation will bind you, entwine you, and thrill you until the very end.
Trapped in a library during a blizzard, Elise finds herself forced into isolation with Lucent Storme, the untoward magnate who's rumored to have more than a few forbidden desires and darker passions. Both appalled and allured by his sordid sophistication, struggling to come to terms with what she knows and what she feels, she finds herself drawn to this man who seems both powerful and fractured all at once. Lucent's secrets and dominant obsessions may be more than Elise can handle, though, and her gentle curiosity is just as likely to cause her pain and heartbreak as it is to bring her happiness...
(A Cerys du Lys contemporary romance novel)
When Elise Tanner finds herself trapped in a library with Lucent Storme during a record-breaking blizzard, she panics. He might not know her, but she knows more than enough about him. Besides being the newly appointed Director of Public Relations for Landseer Enterprises and an influential business magnate, there are rumors that he has a taste for the darker side of sexuality.
He seems fake, false, excessively demanding, too self-important by far, and... with over six feet of snow expected and the streets completely unmanageable, there's absolutely no way for her to escape him.
He's so predatory and dominant, yet beneath his rakish and enigmatic exterior, she senses there's more to this mysterious and isolated man. He's charming and intelligent (though reserved and terse), begrudgingly handsome, and surprisingly thoughtful. Unintentionally, Elise finds herself drawn to Lucent in a way that defies logic.
Unfortunately the snow may be the least of her worries. One disaster begets another and not everything is as it seems with the man who holds a sole singular obsession above all others. Will Elise's curiosity be her undoing? Is she unwittingly playing right into Lucent's hand; his dark desires and commanding personality? Or can she discover His Absolute Purpose, the reason he hides himself behind a facade of formality, and gain a deeper, more emotional and intimate connection with the compelling Director of Public Relations?
The snow may have brought them together, but it can't keep them together forever. What happens when the ice begins to melt?
Powerful, sensual, and commanding. This poignant story of love, attraction, and temptation will bind you, entwine you, and thrill you until the very end.
640 pages, Paperback
First published January 3, 2014
49 people are currently reading
482 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Read
January 12, 2014DNF at 23%
I don't even know how to do this...
I will not rate this book, because how is obvious, I don't finished it.
Maybe I should have tried a bit more, maybe I should have waited at least at 50% of the book, but it wasn't working for me.
I don't want to be mean or anything, I know there's some really hard work behind all this, and I respect the author, so I'll try to explain without disrespect someone.
Here is my reasons:
I was introduced to Mrs. Tanner or Elise, as you prefer. For me, Elise's mind was one of the most confusing minds I ever read about.
I tried to put me in her shoes, I tried to think what I would do in her situation, I tried to imagine to have some dominant as Lucent in front of me... i tried many things, believe me...
I'm really struggling with this, because I wish this had been different,and I even liked Lucent. Really, the guy had some problems... but when he opened his mouth... WOW!! He was HOT!
But unfortunately, Elise not.
I deleted and re- write this "review" a hundred times trying to not put many of my emotions here, otherwise this would be mean, and i don't want it.
I guess all I need to say is that I try connect with the characters, i always try to love them, and even if i can not do that, i try to understand their behavior, but Elise was too much for me.
***
ARC kindly provided via NetGalley
I don't even know how to do this...
I will not rate this book, because how is obvious, I don't finished it.
Maybe I should have tried a bit more, maybe I should have waited at least at 50% of the book, but it wasn't working for me.
I don't want to be mean or anything, I know there's some really hard work behind all this, and I respect the author, so I'll try to explain without disrespect someone.
Here is my reasons:
I was introduced to Mrs. Tanner or Elise, as you prefer. For me, Elise's mind was one of the most confusing minds I ever read about.
I tried to put me in her shoes, I tried to think what I would do in her situation, I tried to imagine to have some dominant as Lucent in front of me... i tried many things, believe me...
I'm really struggling with this, because I wish this had been different,and I even liked Lucent. Really, the guy had some problems... but when he opened his mouth... WOW!! He was HOT!
But unfortunately, Elise not.
I deleted and re- write this "review" a hundred times trying to not put many of my emotions here, otherwise this would be mean, and i don't want it.
I guess all I need to say is that I try connect with the characters, i always try to love them, and even if i can not do that, i try to understand their behavior, but Elise was too much for me.
***
ARC kindly provided via NetGalley
flounced
August 26, 2016DNF at 18%
After skimming through the reviews on this I've come to the conclusion that I must not have read the same book as most of the other readers. The breaking point for me was when the heroine, Elise, sat in the bathroom stall reading a BDSM contract she stole out of Lucent's jacket pocket, making additions to it for herself and signing it. SHE HAD JUST MET THE MAN! Elise went from not liking him (and she didn't even know him when she made that judgement) to crying cause he said he wouldn't do her on the library floor within hours of meeting him. As for Lucent, I didn't care for him too much either. He was too formal and stiff. I felt like this was too similar to Fifty Shades and unfortunately I didn't like that all that much.
After skimming through the reviews on this I've come to the conclusion that I must not have read the same book as most of the other readers. The breaking point for me was when the heroine, Elise, sat in the bathroom stall reading a BDSM contract she stole out of Lucent's jacket pocket, making additions to it for herself and signing it. SHE HAD JUST MET THE MAN! Elise went from not liking him (and she didn't even know him when she made that judgement) to crying cause he said he wouldn't do her on the library floor within hours of meeting him. As for Lucent, I didn't care for him too much either. He was too formal and stiff. I felt like this was too similar to Fifty Shades and unfortunately I didn't like that all that much.
January 7, 2014
I received this book free from the author for a fair and honest review.
I love when a series comes together. I loved each book as it came out individually, but there is something about not having to wait for the next book to come out, or ending one and putting it down to start the next. This is a story about a rather intense billionaire, Lucent, and a college girl, Elise, who is ready to graduate and hopefully do what she loves: write. She works part time at a library and this is where their story starts. They are snowed in together when a winter storm hits shutting down the city. Of course things happen and she finds out things about Lucent that surprise her and endure him to her and vise versa. There is stalking, BDSM, guilt, fun, and sex. If you have an active imagination and like to put yourself into a book and immerse yourself in a role, then this is a great book for you. Go along and let yourself dream. I want to be Elise, and I want Lucent! I hope there is a continuation of Elise and Lucent in the future.
I love when a series comes together. I loved each book as it came out individually, but there is something about not having to wait for the next book to come out, or ending one and putting it down to start the next. This is a story about a rather intense billionaire, Lucent, and a college girl, Elise, who is ready to graduate and hopefully do what she loves: write. She works part time at a library and this is where their story starts. They are snowed in together when a winter storm hits shutting down the city. Of course things happen and she finds out things about Lucent that surprise her and endure him to her and vise versa. There is stalking, BDSM, guilt, fun, and sex. If you have an active imagination and like to put yourself into a book and immerse yourself in a role, then this is a great book for you. Go along and let yourself dream. I want to be Elise, and I want Lucent! I hope there is a continuation of Elise and Lucent in the future.
January 13, 2014
Elise loves the Library, she would rather spend her time hanging out at the Library instead of heading home in the midst of a massive blizzard. Lucent works nearby and wanders in during the storm when he sees the lights on. From here a journey begins for both of them … Lucent is intrigued by Elise but doesn't think he can have a traditional relationship, Elise is crushing on Lucent and doesn't feel worthy of him. As secrets are revealed and passions shared we find deep emotions are exposed for both characters. The chemistry and sex between Elise and Lucent is electrifying. Can Lucent see past his dominant tendencies and find his own version of dom/sub relationship with Elise? Is training her really a problem? Can Elise convince Lucent she is ready to be a submissive?
I hope we get to explore more of Elise and Lucent's story. The Billionaire's Ultimatum encompasses 7 days so everything that happens is really on a fast time table but yet Cerys du Lys gives you a lot of depth and detail to the characters in this time frame. I would love to explore what happens next for them!
I hope we get to explore more of Elise and Lucent's story. The Billionaire's Ultimatum encompasses 7 days so everything that happens is really on a fast time table but yet Cerys du Lys gives you a lot of depth and detail to the characters in this time frame. I would love to explore what happens next for them!
January 8, 2014
I was given a free copy of this book for an honest review of this novel. I really enjoyed this story!! It's a bit long in the beginning but once you hit the middle of the book the story is fantastic! I LOVED this story! It had soooooo many different factors to it, it just kept me guessing! I loved Lucent. LOVED HIM! He's very deep and I love how his feelings evolve through out the book and his dominating tendencies mild to fit http://www.amazon.com/Hap-pay-Redneck... and Elise's relationship. Great book!!!
January 12, 2014
Oh wow another beautiful story about oppersite a attracting in unusual ways and how fast love hits when you find that someone special just for you. I recommend this book for those who love books like 50 shades only difference is this is sweeter
April 22, 2019
Picked this up by accident. Would give it no stars if I could. Abysmal, lengthy, poorly written tosh. The characters go nowhere and the sex is about as erotic as a wet fish. The heroine is so childish and her behaviour is utterly unbelievable. Read the first 3 chapters and gave up, simply couldn’t finish it. There is some well written erotica out there - this is not one of them!
January 30, 2014
I was given this book for a fair and honest review from the author.
When I rate a book depending on the type of book I look at many things. Humor, do I get annoyed, does it make me smile or laugh, is there a story, do I want to slap someone, is there passion, love, caring and is there a love hate relationship to name a few. Then I rate it as follows....
I enjoyed this book, there was a story with the sex, I find BDSM interesting doesn't mean I want to try it but I did read into it and have found a one or two books of this type very good. What is most important to me in this type of book is the story, without a story you don't have a book you just have naughty sex which to me is boring. I found this book not only to have a story but to be humorous, cute and funny at time (which is important to me), I did smile and I laugh a few times. I did find Elise annoying but in a nice way, at times I wanted to slap her. I found Lucent a very strong demanding man who was unsure of a few things. Do we all not know what we want but find at times what we thought we wanted wasn't it? I think Lucent found this and thus finding his perfect mate. The passion was there and it was cute how Elise brought the playful side out of Lucent. Eye rolling, sticking out your tongue is playful. I felt she gave him what he needed and let him find the fun side of life.
I found the wax and oil interesting and wonder it this is true, slapping as the write wrote is as cute. Yes there are mean, cruel people out there that over step the BDSM thing and the write shows this and shows how it should be.
As far as repeating things as some have stated, I look at myself and others around me. In real life do we not do these same things. We think and we repeat, we think and we repeat. So I found most of this story believable and fitting in with today's world on how people deal with life, our thoughts and feelings. I understand how Elise wanted to learn about BDSM from Lucent and not wanting to read or look into it, she trusted him to teach her what she wanted to know. I feel that a lot of people might do the same things. In trusting him with her question she was showing him that she would turn to him always and not doubt thus giving him what he needed to be the man he wanted to be. He has trust issues, really he has a lot of issues he must over come.
Thus I found this book very enjoyable, I did feel it was a little to long and felt some thing could be cut out but I am not the writer and I felt the writer did a great job of story telling. So I rated this book a 5 since it hit on the points I find that are IMPORTANT TO ME in a book as I am sure you do.
I am not one to give away must of anything in a book, there our many surprises and you think well I be damn..lol
When I rate a book depending on the type of book I look at many things. Humor, do I get annoyed, does it make me smile or laugh, is there a story, do I want to slap someone, is there passion, love, caring and is there a love hate relationship to name a few. Then I rate it as follows....
I enjoyed this book, there was a story with the sex, I find BDSM interesting doesn't mean I want to try it but I did read into it and have found a one or two books of this type very good. What is most important to me in this type of book is the story, without a story you don't have a book you just have naughty sex which to me is boring. I found this book not only to have a story but to be humorous, cute and funny at time (which is important to me), I did smile and I laugh a few times. I did find Elise annoying but in a nice way, at times I wanted to slap her. I found Lucent a very strong demanding man who was unsure of a few things. Do we all not know what we want but find at times what we thought we wanted wasn't it? I think Lucent found this and thus finding his perfect mate. The passion was there and it was cute how Elise brought the playful side out of Lucent. Eye rolling, sticking out your tongue is playful. I felt she gave him what he needed and let him find the fun side of life.
I found the wax and oil interesting and wonder it this is true, slapping as the write wrote is as cute. Yes there are mean, cruel people out there that over step the BDSM thing and the write shows this and shows how it should be.
As far as repeating things as some have stated, I look at myself and others around me. In real life do we not do these same things. We think and we repeat, we think and we repeat. So I found most of this story believable and fitting in with today's world on how people deal with life, our thoughts and feelings. I understand how Elise wanted to learn about BDSM from Lucent and not wanting to read or look into it, she trusted him to teach her what she wanted to know. I feel that a lot of people might do the same things. In trusting him with her question she was showing him that she would turn to him always and not doubt thus giving him what he needed to be the man he wanted to be. He has trust issues, really he has a lot of issues he must over come.
Thus I found this book very enjoyable, I did feel it was a little to long and felt some thing could be cut out but I am not the writer and I felt the writer did a great job of story telling. So I rated this book a 5 since it hit on the points I find that are IMPORTANT TO ME in a book as I am sure you do.
I am not one to give away must of anything in a book, there our many surprises and you think well I be damn..lol
January 16, 2014
*Review can also be found at Jackie's Book World :)*
Cerys du Lys did a good job with this book. The overall plot attracted me to the book, and it didn't disappoint. The characters are well thought out and the fact that just about everything happens in one setting definitely worked. Trapped in a library during a blizzard, Elise finds herself inside with non other than, Lucent Strome, Director of Public Relations for Landseer Enterprises. With his obsessive yet charming personality, Lucent is not afraid to get what he wants and spending time with a naive/curious Elise, is tempting to him.
As the pair start to get to know each other, they find themselves revealing their darkest secrets. Their chemistry is spontaneous and fast. Elise has a curious personality and that's what starts the story. She wants to get to know Lucent and his past. But what she doesn't know is that behind Lucent's dominant and commanding persona hides a secret that might just tear them apart. One of the many things that I liked about the story is the romantic scenes between Lucent and Elise, when they're just themselves. Lucent is a character that has an overwhelming personality, but when he is not commanding, that's when he is caring and likable. On the other hand, Elise's character could have been developed a little bit more. She is definitely curious on a lot of different topics in the story, and that's what leads her into trouble. Overall, the story was good and I recommend it for those of you that are interested in reading a more mature/adult book.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Cerys du Lys did a good job with this book. The overall plot attracted me to the book, and it didn't disappoint. The characters are well thought out and the fact that just about everything happens in one setting definitely worked. Trapped in a library during a blizzard, Elise finds herself inside with non other than, Lucent Strome, Director of Public Relations for Landseer Enterprises. With his obsessive yet charming personality, Lucent is not afraid to get what he wants and spending time with a naive/curious Elise, is tempting to him.
As the pair start to get to know each other, they find themselves revealing their darkest secrets. Their chemistry is spontaneous and fast. Elise has a curious personality and that's what starts the story. She wants to get to know Lucent and his past. But what she doesn't know is that behind Lucent's dominant and commanding persona hides a secret that might just tear them apart. One of the many things that I liked about the story is the romantic scenes between Lucent and Elise, when they're just themselves. Lucent is a character that has an overwhelming personality, but when he is not commanding, that's when he is caring and likable. On the other hand, Elise's character could have been developed a little bit more. She is definitely curious on a lot of different topics in the story, and that's what leads her into trouble. Overall, the story was good and I recommend it for those of you that are interested in reading a more mature/adult book.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
January 15, 2014
Elise Tanner is nearly 24 years old and works weekdays after her college courses at the public Library in Silver Lake, Colorado. She is going to college for her MFA in creative writing specializing in fiction. Elise is a bit of a recluse. She shy's away from the typical college parting groups. Elise is a smart headstrong woman with a good since of humor.
Lucent Storme is a 29 year old rich, handsome, businessman. He has a way with words and always dresses in expensive business suits. Lucent likes to be in control of all things. He is a dominating man with a very big heart. Only he thinks himself as a bad guy. There was a terrible accident when he was younger that he can't seem to forgive himself for so he pushes people away afraid of hurting them.
Fate intervenes and throw's these two together(or so we think it was fate)when a record breaking snow storm of 78 inches hit's the town. They're trapped alone together in the Library.
Elise knows of Lucent she has read rumors about his dominating ways and instantly dislikes him. After spending some time alone with him she starts to like him and has a physical attraction to him. Elise is very curious about his lifestyle. She wants him to show her how it would be if she was submissive to him. They end up spending a couple of erotic days together.
When the snow clears, " the honeymoon," so to speak is over and Elise will have to fight for what she wants.
That is only the beginning.
This was a good story a really long but good read.
Lucent Storme is a 29 year old rich, handsome, businessman. He has a way with words and always dresses in expensive business suits. Lucent likes to be in control of all things. He is a dominating man with a very big heart. Only he thinks himself as a bad guy. There was a terrible accident when he was younger that he can't seem to forgive himself for so he pushes people away afraid of hurting them.
Fate intervenes and throw's these two together(or so we think it was fate)when a record breaking snow storm of 78 inches hit's the town. They're trapped alone together in the Library.
Elise knows of Lucent she has read rumors about his dominating ways and instantly dislikes him. After spending some time alone with him she starts to like him and has a physical attraction to him. Elise is very curious about his lifestyle. She wants him to show her how it would be if she was submissive to him. They end up spending a couple of erotic days together.
When the snow clears, " the honeymoon," so to speak is over and Elise will have to fight for what she wants.
That is only the beginning.
This was a good story a really long but good read.
April 2, 2014
I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review, so here it is. I really enjoyed this book and the only thing that got to me was Elise and her overactive mind. She was always second guessing everything and I wanted to reach in the story and shake her and say "OK, just make up you mind and stop over-thinking things".
Now what I really enjoyed was the story line. Elise works at the library after her college classes and on this day a snow storm was headed her way. She stays because she feels that she should and the library is her safe place. When a man shows up and they get trapped in the library, she realizes the man is billionaire Lucent Storme, gorgeous, sexy and into BDSM things. She questions him to learn what makes him tick and what he likes about BDSM. She is disturbed that anyone could like that lifestyle. They have vending machines and drinks and the power is still on, so they have heat. The time they spend in the library is exciting for Elise and she wants to learn all she can about Lucent. After they are free from the library, Lucent thinks they should go their separate ways but Elise wants more. She will try to make him jealous and that will put herself in danger later on. This story has an intriguing and sometimes fun story line. So if you want something a little different, then you should read this one. It is a little long but I think it is worth the time to read.
Now what I really enjoyed was the story line. Elise works at the library after her college classes and on this day a snow storm was headed her way. She stays because she feels that she should and the library is her safe place. When a man shows up and they get trapped in the library, she realizes the man is billionaire Lucent Storme, gorgeous, sexy and into BDSM things. She questions him to learn what makes him tick and what he likes about BDSM. She is disturbed that anyone could like that lifestyle. They have vending machines and drinks and the power is still on, so they have heat. The time they spend in the library is exciting for Elise and she wants to learn all she can about Lucent. After they are free from the library, Lucent thinks they should go their separate ways but Elise wants more. She will try to make him jealous and that will put herself in danger later on. This story has an intriguing and sometimes fun story line. So if you want something a little different, then you should read this one. It is a little long but I think it is worth the time to read.
January 9, 2014
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. Let me start this out by saying I am a fan of this author and have liked many of her books in fact the last book of hers I read was given one of the highest reviews I give a 5 star rating. With that being said I wanted to kill the female main character in this book. I could not stand the fact that she is a creative writing student but yet can not seem to do any research. And the fact that she keeps asking Lucent if everything he is doing is his BDSM thing, please make it stop. I though if she really wants to know what it is do some reading she is a librarian as well so it is not like the research material is not at her fingertips. Lucent on the other hand comes across as a very cautious Dom and I really liked that. It showed that he cares about his submissive and is ensuring that their safety comes first. Elise bugs me though through 3/4 of this book. She seems winney, selfish, and way to clingy. You can tell that she is a natural submissive but she needs to be trained how to talk to the Dom not allowed to get away with everything. The story-line for the book is good there are a few grammatical errors in the book but not that cause problems. Over all it is a good book but I am not sure it is one that I can recommend without a bit of caution be forewarned about the female lead she may be a natural submissive but she can't seem to act like it when it really counts.
January 17, 2014
I was fortunate to get a free copy as an ARC, so I decided to check the sale price for the Kindle addition on Amazon and was very surprised to see it was only 99 cents. The reason I'm so surprised by this is because this is a beefy book! 600 some pages!
I really liked this book, It was the type of book that draws you in and forces you to sneak a few pages off your kindle app while waiting in line at the grocery store or while your children are at basketball practice. It was very easy to be swept away by the characters fun banter and the writing in general.
I love the back and forth between the 2 main characters. Lucent is such a smart man and his wording of general phrases makes him sound like some Oxford educated philosopher, but at the same time...I was waiting to hear he had high functioning aspergers or something else that would help explain his thought process, and his intensity. He was so torn between his desire/obsession for Elise and the feeling that he wasn't worthy of her because of his desires/obsession.
Elise gets 2 thumbs up for looking past Lucent's quarks and seeing the person he is beneath it all. He is a real prize, Lucent.
I recommend this book wholeheartedly. Great characters, great writing.
I really liked this book, It was the type of book that draws you in and forces you to sneak a few pages off your kindle app while waiting in line at the grocery store or while your children are at basketball practice. It was very easy to be swept away by the characters fun banter and the writing in general.
I love the back and forth between the 2 main characters. Lucent is such a smart man and his wording of general phrases makes him sound like some Oxford educated philosopher, but at the same time...I was waiting to hear he had high functioning aspergers or something else that would help explain his thought process, and his intensity. He was so torn between his desire/obsession for Elise and the feeling that he wasn't worthy of her because of his desires/obsession.
Elise gets 2 thumbs up for looking past Lucent's quarks and seeing the person he is beneath it all. He is a real prize, Lucent.
I recommend this book wholeheartedly. Great characters, great writing.
January 17, 2014
Lucent's presence demands attention, "then let's pretend I've asked for every book and you're going to show them to me," he said. "Except skip the part about the books and give me a tour." Sometimes he has to clear things up with Elise, "I'm rather positive I said we couldn't have sex on the rug in the library. I never said we couldn't flirt with one another." Elise I loved her that girl was just so sweet and innocent, "oh." I frowned. Fitted condoms, really? "Can we use one later?" She's a little spitfire when it comes to sex as well, "I was naked, and Lucent was naked and it was morning and I'd heard about this, but apparently men in the morning are quite agreeable to sex. I shuffled down his body and lowered myself to his generally agreeable areas, hope to test this theory myself." And Elise likes to make sure Lucent's answers are thorough, "it works like any other condom, Miss Tanner. You unwrap it, unroll it around the object of your affections, and presumably satisfaction comes soon after." He also gets all hot and bothered in the bedroom I loved it, "I'm going to eff you," he said. "I'm going to eff you so hard, Miss Tanner, that my desk is going to rattle and shake and I honestly couldn't care less if anyone heard us now. What do you say to that?"
January 20, 2014
ARC supplied by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review
My first experience of this author and it was a good one!
I was a little concerned at first that the book, based on the "blurb", was just another written to a tried and popular formula, controlling millionaire with a very controlling and dominate nature and ghosts from his past still haunting him and a shy college girl who would rather work at the library than go out partying - see where I coming from on this?
Having said that this book was just so much! The story, for me at least, flowed well and had some rather unexpected twists and turns along the way. It is definitely an adult read, due to the very hot sex scenes but also because of other, much darker, things. These include (without trying to give too much of a spoiler) kidnap, non-consensual bondage and gagging, attempted rape and TPE (total power exchange) which some readers may find very uncomfortable reading about. But if you like your reading on the edgier side I would highly recommend it especially based on the current selling price and length of the book.
I hope to read more of this author's work in the future :)
My first experience of this author and it was a good one!
I was a little concerned at first that the book, based on the "blurb", was just another written to a tried and popular formula, controlling millionaire with a very controlling and dominate nature and ghosts from his past still haunting him and a shy college girl who would rather work at the library than go out partying - see where I coming from on this?
Having said that this book was just so much! The story, for me at least, flowed well and had some rather unexpected twists and turns along the way. It is definitely an adult read, due to the very hot sex scenes but also because of other, much darker, things. These include (without trying to give too much of a spoiler) kidnap, non-consensual bondage and gagging, attempted rape and TPE (total power exchange) which some readers may find very uncomfortable reading about. But if you like your reading on the edgier side I would highly recommend it especially based on the current selling price and length of the book.
I hope to read more of this author's work in the future :)
April 12, 2014
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Sexy billionaire and a sweet college girl trapped together during a blizzard, though highly unlikely in real life, it was a great story. I will have to say that the characters did use some very fancy large words that most people wouldn’t know the meaning.
Sex scenes: oh yeah, and they were good
Characters: I connected with Elise easily and Lucent after awhile
Religious: No
More than one book in a series: There is another one in the works but you can read this and be satisfied with the ending.
Would I read more from this author: Yes!!
Genre: Contemporary Romance.
Sexy billionaire and a sweet college girl trapped together during a blizzard, though highly unlikely in real life, it was a great story. I will have to say that the characters did use some very fancy large words that most people wouldn’t know the meaning.
Sex scenes: oh yeah, and they were good
Characters: I connected with Elise easily and Lucent after awhile
Religious: No
More than one book in a series: There is another one in the works but you can read this and be satisfied with the ending.
Would I read more from this author: Yes!!
Genre: Contemporary Romance.
January 13, 2014
A movie MUST be made from this book.
It was FANTASTIC! Elise is beyond adorable. I wish she existed so that we could be friends.
Lucent is absolutely perfect...tortured yet sensitive; the kind of guy who knows when to hold the door for his lady in public and then when to pull her hair in the bedroom, if you know what I mean ;)
The plot started and ended as being nothing short of fascinating. Cerys kept adding elements to the plot that made me feel that I MUST read more! The suspense towards the end was so GRIPPING, and I am trying SO hard to NOT spoil anything, so I shall say nothing else.
Oh, and did I mention the HOT love scenes?!
I just bought Cerys' new book, The Monster Within, and I will be starting that immediately!
It was FANTASTIC! Elise is beyond adorable. I wish she existed so that we could be friends.
Lucent is absolutely perfect...tortured yet sensitive; the kind of guy who knows when to hold the door for his lady in public and then when to pull her hair in the bedroom, if you know what I mean ;)
The plot started and ended as being nothing short of fascinating. Cerys kept adding elements to the plot that made me feel that I MUST read more! The suspense towards the end was so GRIPPING, and I am trying SO hard to NOT spoil anything, so I shall say nothing else.
Oh, and did I mention the HOT love scenes?!
I just bought Cerys' new book, The Monster Within, and I will be starting that immediately!
January 14, 2014
The Billionaire's Paradigm: His Absolute Purpose (The Billionaire's Paradigm, #1-7), by Cerys du Lys, was provided to me for an honest review.
I liked the premise of the novel with the protagonists meeting for the first time in the library and stranded there for a couple of days during a snowstorm. The male protagonist was intense, formal and meticulous in behavior while the female lead was curious and impulsive, and their personalities complemented one another. The story and relationship development was poignant and compelling to read. The romance, trials and tribulations, and the steaminess factor made for an enjoyable reading experience.
I liked the premise of the novel with the protagonists meeting for the first time in the library and stranded there for a couple of days during a snowstorm. The male protagonist was intense, formal and meticulous in behavior while the female lead was curious and impulsive, and their personalities complemented one another. The story and relationship development was poignant and compelling to read. The romance, trials and tribulations, and the steaminess factor made for an enjoyable reading experience.
May 12, 2014
I received it in exchange of an honest review! Well written, funny, sexy and witty i really enjoyed this book!!! A little slow at the beginning the richness of the writing makes you enjoy the pace and connect with the characters!! The sexy romances nowadays are too speedy like a "wham-bam thank you mam" kind of thing, although this story is pretty fast itself, in time (only a few weeks) the characters, their relation and the quality of the writing makes you think it's longer! Hot and steamy Elise and Lucent can give you quit a few butterflies!!! This book will please any fan of a slow cooked fsog!!!! I am waiting for more!!!
April 22, 2014
This was an awesome book and a must read. I read The Billionaire'Ultimatum first and have also started reading the continuum's for each book. Cerys du Lys is a great author who I've really connected with in regards to the books. They are not over the top BDSM which is a nice change and has more of a romantic side than most of the Erotica genre novels I read. I cannot wait for the next installment of the continuum's to see where the story leads.
February 24, 2014
Wow! I was hooked from the beginning.
Be prepared for some smoking HOT scenes! *this book is definitely an adult read*
I loved the banter between the two main characters.
Fast paced & hard to put down!
Be prepared for some smoking HOT scenes! *this book is definitely an adult read*
I loved the banter between the two main characters.
Fast paced & hard to put down!
October 16, 2014
I loved, loved, loved this book. I've been up late the past 2 nights not being able to put it down.
June 27, 2019
This book was a little surprising. Content makes this a questionable read for many readers. I will say the writing was magnificent and vocabulary superior.
March 17, 2014
Originally posted on www.yareads.com, reviewed by Nichole.
Not appropriate for readers under 18 years of age
The Billionaire’s Paradigm: His Absolute Purpose left me with mixed feelings. First, it was hot and a pretty smoky read, BUT it was also offensive and a little ridiculous at times. It reminded me a lot of Fifty Shades of Greys. I remember HATING Fifty Shades…so I feel like this one is going to be a big hit once it really starts to get noticed. Fifty Shades fans are going to devour this one, as they are very, very similar in tastes.
My biggest problem with this book was the main character, Elise. OMG, just like Anna from Fifty Shades, I HATED HER. HATED. Omg. She was just awful. First of all, she was pretty much portrayed as a little girl throughout the whole book. The author never really came out and said that, but she was very childish. There would be scenes of her nodding her head super fast when she got excited, whining, begging, pulling out her lip like a little kid. I had to skim a lot through this book because when I was reading from Elise’s perspective, I constantly heard a naggy, whiny voice in my head. That really made the book unattractive in several spots. I was also really annoyed that she couldn’t make up her damn mind. Either like what Lucent is into or step back from it. She was constantly flip flopping all around. One minute she liked something and was all about it. The next minute she just couldn’t get into it, and Oh, Lucent! I just don’t think we can do this anymore! Omg. I read that so many goddamn times. Just make up your mind. She was a very unattractive character to read about.
As for Lucent….I liked him at first. Then, he started to get rather annoying. Lucent’s character is portrayed as a very proper character. That being said, he said a lot of words that I had to look up the definition to. Do you know how distracting it is to do that? I was constantly having to stop what I was doing and have my Kindle app tell me what the word meant. I’m honestly surprised I finished the book with how often I had to do that. I also found Lucent to be a little…no…a LOT..disturbing. There’s nothing wrong with the lifestyle that was being portrayed in this book…but Lucent was weird. And a stalker. and a bit abusive in the mind, even though the author went all out to try and detail that Lucent wasn’t abusive. You know..honestly…I thought their whole relationship was a little abusive. There wasn’t really anything physically abusive going on in their relationship, but I was very concerned about both of their mental states.
Another HUGE problem that I had with this book is that it was so drawn out. There was no reason for this book to be over 600 pages. I felt that it was more the author trying to shove it 150 sex scenes throughout it. I also didn’t understand why they were stuck in the library until 50% of the book. SERIOUSLY? I know the plot says that they’re stuck in the library together…but seriously? Don’t draw it out until 50% of the way through the book. That’s way overboard. When they finally left the library…things didn’t get much better. Actually…..that’s when I started to dislike Lucent. I’m sorry, but I just can’t get on board with stalking. I don’t care if he had good intentions…it’s creepy. And my hatred for Elise went even deeper when she just accepted everything that Lucent had done to her before he even met her. Creepy. Again…I was VERY concerned about the mental capacities of both of the main character.
The plot was okay, but nothing that really blew my mind. I kind of felt that I had already been there and done that in previous books. It seemed more like the author was trying to create porn for adults, rather than creating an actual story. Don’t get me wrong, there WAS a story, but it poorly executed on several fronts. Again, it was also WAY too drawn out. I like my adult books every now and then, but I like them to be a bit more solid.
I’m not really sure why this book is listed as a New Adult book. I THINK it’s because Elise is a college student. I’m warning all of you right now that this is NOT a New Adult book. You can’t just label a book NA because one of the main characters is in college. No…this is a straight up erotica book, and I’m really not sure why it isn’t listed that way on Goodreads.
There is a plot twist at the end of the book that really turned me off. Anyone with triggers should definitely avoid it. It really focuses more on the abusive side of those types of relationships. I really didn’t think that it was necessary for the book. Honestly, I thought that it really took away from it. It was also pretty cheesy…
Fans of Fifty Shades of Grey are probably going to adore this book. They are very similar but with different plots. That being said, it’s not surprising that I disliked it. I hated Fifty Shades, and I didn’t care for this one. It’s just a preference thing. It’s not my cup of tea. I can see WHY people are going to love it…..but I don’t.
Not appropriate for readers under 18 years of age
The Billionaire’s Paradigm: His Absolute Purpose left me with mixed feelings. First, it was hot and a pretty smoky read, BUT it was also offensive and a little ridiculous at times. It reminded me a lot of Fifty Shades of Greys. I remember HATING Fifty Shades…so I feel like this one is going to be a big hit once it really starts to get noticed. Fifty Shades fans are going to devour this one, as they are very, very similar in tastes.
My biggest problem with this book was the main character, Elise. OMG, just like Anna from Fifty Shades, I HATED HER. HATED. Omg. She was just awful. First of all, she was pretty much portrayed as a little girl throughout the whole book. The author never really came out and said that, but she was very childish. There would be scenes of her nodding her head super fast when she got excited, whining, begging, pulling out her lip like a little kid. I had to skim a lot through this book because when I was reading from Elise’s perspective, I constantly heard a naggy, whiny voice in my head. That really made the book unattractive in several spots. I was also really annoyed that she couldn’t make up her damn mind. Either like what Lucent is into or step back from it. She was constantly flip flopping all around. One minute she liked something and was all about it. The next minute she just couldn’t get into it, and Oh, Lucent! I just don’t think we can do this anymore! Omg. I read that so many goddamn times. Just make up your mind. She was a very unattractive character to read about.
As for Lucent….I liked him at first. Then, he started to get rather annoying. Lucent’s character is portrayed as a very proper character. That being said, he said a lot of words that I had to look up the definition to. Do you know how distracting it is to do that? I was constantly having to stop what I was doing and have my Kindle app tell me what the word meant. I’m honestly surprised I finished the book with how often I had to do that. I also found Lucent to be a little…no…a LOT..disturbing. There’s nothing wrong with the lifestyle that was being portrayed in this book…but Lucent was weird. And a stalker. and a bit abusive in the mind, even though the author went all out to try and detail that Lucent wasn’t abusive. You know..honestly…I thought their whole relationship was a little abusive. There wasn’t really anything physically abusive going on in their relationship, but I was very concerned about both of their mental states.
Another HUGE problem that I had with this book is that it was so drawn out. There was no reason for this book to be over 600 pages. I felt that it was more the author trying to shove it 150 sex scenes throughout it. I also didn’t understand why they were stuck in the library until 50% of the book. SERIOUSLY? I know the plot says that they’re stuck in the library together…but seriously? Don’t draw it out until 50% of the way through the book. That’s way overboard. When they finally left the library…things didn’t get much better. Actually…..that’s when I started to dislike Lucent. I’m sorry, but I just can’t get on board with stalking. I don’t care if he had good intentions…it’s creepy. And my hatred for Elise went even deeper when she just accepted everything that Lucent had done to her before he even met her. Creepy. Again…I was VERY concerned about the mental capacities of both of the main character.
The plot was okay, but nothing that really blew my mind. I kind of felt that I had already been there and done that in previous books. It seemed more like the author was trying to create porn for adults, rather than creating an actual story. Don’t get me wrong, there WAS a story, but it poorly executed on several fronts. Again, it was also WAY too drawn out. I like my adult books every now and then, but I like them to be a bit more solid.
I’m not really sure why this book is listed as a New Adult book. I THINK it’s because Elise is a college student. I’m warning all of you right now that this is NOT a New Adult book. You can’t just label a book NA because one of the main characters is in college. No…this is a straight up erotica book, and I’m really not sure why it isn’t listed that way on Goodreads.
There is a plot twist at the end of the book that really turned me off. Anyone with triggers should definitely avoid it. It really focuses more on the abusive side of those types of relationships. I really didn’t think that it was necessary for the book. Honestly, I thought that it really took away from it. It was also pretty cheesy…
Fans of Fifty Shades of Grey are probably going to adore this book. They are very similar but with different plots. That being said, it’s not surprising that I disliked it. I hated Fifty Shades, and I didn’t care for this one. It’s just a preference thing. It’s not my cup of tea. I can see WHY people are going to love it…..but I don’t.
January 23, 2014
*I was provided with a free ebook copy for an honest review*
This book started out entertainingly enough, but quickly spiraled to a point where I had no respect for either of the main characters. Their actions are contradictory and unbelievable. Both characters are startlingly immature and not very intelligent, despite the authors constant statements to the contrary.
As the book went on, it only got worse. I came to not only not respect the characters but actually deeply dislike them as well. Elise makes countless idiotic moves endangering herself and her roommate and does nothing to help herself. Lucent jumps in to save her every time and seems to think her actions are almost endearing instead of stupid-dangerous.
As far as the writing goes, at times, it flows very well. At other times, it jumps from reality to fantasy and it makes the story difficult to follow. The language is confusing and ranges from laughable to completely nonsensical. Elise speaks at once like a 14 year old girl and an English school marm. It truly hurt my head.
The story line itself does have merit. I did want to know how it ended. There were a few plot lines that really didn't fit and the book would be better without them, especially some of the wilder settings and secret rooms. I did enjoy one very well written scene that involved lilacs, but I will not spoil it here.
Overall, I wanted it to be better. It wasn't.
This book started out entertainingly enough, but quickly spiraled to a point where I had no respect for either of the main characters. Their actions are contradictory and unbelievable. Both characters are startlingly immature and not very intelligent, despite the authors constant statements to the contrary.
As the book went on, it only got worse. I came to not only not respect the characters but actually deeply dislike them as well. Elise makes countless idiotic moves endangering herself and her roommate and does nothing to help herself. Lucent jumps in to save her every time and seems to think her actions are almost endearing instead of stupid-dangerous.
As far as the writing goes, at times, it flows very well. At other times, it jumps from reality to fantasy and it makes the story difficult to follow. The language is confusing and ranges from laughable to completely nonsensical. Elise speaks at once like a 14 year old girl and an English school marm. It truly hurt my head.
The story line itself does have merit. I did want to know how it ended. There were a few plot lines that really didn't fit and the book would be better without them, especially some of the wilder settings and secret rooms. I did enjoy one very well written scene that involved lilacs, but I will not spoil it here.
Overall, I wanted it to be better. It wasn't.
February 17, 2014
After reading the blurb of a couple getting stuck in a library during a snow storm, I expected a romantic adventure. They did have an adventure but it was not romantic.
I didn't think the story line was very well laid out and found it confusing. It seemed that this book was about sex - a lot of it. I can't say that I liked or didn't like the characters. I felt that somewhere the author just couldn't bring the characters to life. Elise was very childish even with all the sex she had. She was constantly sticking out her tongue or pouting. At her age, that was nuts.
So Elise was pretty excited about being stuck in the library with wealthy Lucent Storme but that didn't explain why she had to masturbate within hours of meeting him. It was an inappropriate time and place for that as well as just not helping the story line. And Lucent wanting to make them even by masturbating in front of her was also not necessary for the story. Elise's character was contradictory. She was suppose to be innocent but actually she wasn't innocent sexually or in her thoughts.
Lucent was OK but sometimes didn't make sense. Like when he didn't mind masturbating in front of Elise but wouldn't have sex until after their third date.
There were lots of words I didn't know the meaning of and couldn't guess at them from the story.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't think the story line was very well laid out and found it confusing. It seemed that this book was about sex - a lot of it. I can't say that I liked or didn't like the characters. I felt that somewhere the author just couldn't bring the characters to life. Elise was very childish even with all the sex she had. She was constantly sticking out her tongue or pouting. At her age, that was nuts.
So Elise was pretty excited about being stuck in the library with wealthy Lucent Storme but that didn't explain why she had to masturbate within hours of meeting him. It was an inappropriate time and place for that as well as just not helping the story line. And Lucent wanting to make them even by masturbating in front of her was also not necessary for the story. Elise's character was contradictory. She was suppose to be innocent but actually she wasn't innocent sexually or in her thoughts.
Lucent was OK but sometimes didn't make sense. Like when he didn't mind masturbating in front of Elise but wouldn't have sex until after their third date.
There were lots of words I didn't know the meaning of and couldn't guess at them from the story.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2014
Ok, I was thinking that this book went on forever. But as I am researching this book was broken up into seven parts. I think reading them that way would be better and have readers hooked more on this story than giving them everything in this book all at once. I have to admit it was a little overwhelming to read and it seemed like it took forever to get thought. Toward the end I was thinking “when is this story going to end?” and saw myself drifting a little.
The story itself is good. I was hooked in the beginning and it continued throughout this saga. However, I would highly suggest reading the novella’s as to the whole story at once. I do think I would have fallen harder for this series if I would have had it in little doses.
The characters are great and develop nicely as the story progresses. The pace is fast and plot changes so much it is hard to lose interest.
Overall, a good read.
This review is also posted here
The story itself is good. I was hooked in the beginning and it continued throughout this saga. However, I would highly suggest reading the novella’s as to the whole story at once. I do think I would have fallen harder for this series if I would have had it in little doses.
The characters are great and develop nicely as the story progresses. The pace is fast and plot changes so much it is hard to lose interest.
Overall, a good read.
This review is also posted here
December 20, 2014
See more of my reviews on my blog Thoughts At One In The Morning.
My Thoughts:
This one intrigued me too much to pass up, despite my inkling that it may not be up my alley. And while it wasn't quite up my alley, and I had moments of not liking it, I couldn't stop reading!
Elise was the stereotypical girl of the genre, complete with impulsive behavior and random crying. And Lucent was obsessed with Elise to the point of practically stalking her. Despite these major character annoyances, I just kept reading because I wanted to see where everything ended up, to see where THEY ended up.
It had a little bit of steam, and I was intrigued by that. I think that's what kept me going, waiting for them to get together. I cringed a bit at errors/other issues, but the fact that I kept reading has given it the three star rating.
My Review: Pretty Good
My Thoughts:
This one intrigued me too much to pass up, despite my inkling that it may not be up my alley. And while it wasn't quite up my alley, and I had moments of not liking it, I couldn't stop reading!
Elise was the stereotypical girl of the genre, complete with impulsive behavior and random crying. And Lucent was obsessed with Elise to the point of practically stalking her. Despite these major character annoyances, I just kept reading because I wanted to see where everything ended up, to see where THEY ended up.
It had a little bit of steam, and I was intrigued by that. I think that's what kept me going, waiting for them to get together. I cringed a bit at errors/other issues, but the fact that I kept reading has given it the three star rating.
My Review: Pretty Good
September 10, 2016
This ARC was provided to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have to admit that I wasn't really into this series. Though I did like both Elise and Lucent and thought that they were amazing together I thought it still dragged and lacked some spark.
The book came across a little different and weird but had a whole lot of steam factor that definitely helped to make up for the weirdness. I was confused by some of the scenes such as when she stole the BDSM contract and signed it. I mean she just met him. Maybe its just me but I was quite confused by this and it kind of turned me off about the couple. Overall it was a good story I'm just not sure if it was quite my cup of tea.
I have to admit that I wasn't really into this series. Though I did like both Elise and Lucent and thought that they were amazing together I thought it still dragged and lacked some spark.
The book came across a little different and weird but had a whole lot of steam factor that definitely helped to make up for the weirdness. I was confused by some of the scenes such as when she stole the BDSM contract and signed it. I mean she just met him. Maybe its just me but I was quite confused by this and it kind of turned me off about the couple. Overall it was a good story I'm just not sure if it was quite my cup of tea.
April 8, 2015
I have read and thoroughly enjoyed all of this series to date. I have begun Asher & Jessika's story simultaneously.
BTW I read all you notes at the end of each book and enjoy them also. These books with Lucent & Elise are so consuming and draw a reader in, I will hate when the series finally reaches its ultimate conclusion. I don't want to let go of them. As the creator if these characters you have them with you always because you knew them first.
Thank you for sharing them with us so beautifully.
Sincerely,
Beverly
BTW I read all you notes at the end of each book and enjoy them also. These books with Lucent & Elise are so consuming and draw a reader in, I will hate when the series finally reaches its ultimate conclusion. I don't want to let go of them. As the creator if these characters you have them with you always because you knew them first.
Thank you for sharing them with us so beautifully.
Sincerely,
Beverly
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews