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Love Land #2
Wonderland
I know an Ace when I see one. And this woman, my Ace of Hearts, is the one play I can’t resist. She’s slick, counting cards and running game in my casino. But no one steals from me without consequence.
Ace may think she’s getting away with it, but I watch her every move. I run the dark side of Vegas, and soon enough I’ll show her just how long my reach truly is. I’m not the only one who wants this sweet little con, but I’m the only one who’ll ever have her.
My Ace of Hearts belongs only to me, whether she knows it or not.
Ace may think she’s getting away with it, but I watch her every move. I run the dark side of Vegas, and soon enough I’ll show her just how long my reach truly is. I’m not the only one who wants this sweet little con, but I’m the only one who’ll ever have her.
My Ace of Hearts belongs only to me, whether she knows it or not.
116 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2024
313 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
April 2, 2024
2.5 ⭐
I can't help but compare them, but the first book is way better. I feel a disconnect here, and the timeline of this story is way too short. I know this is a novella, and it's expected to be fast-paced with insta-love, but I didn't feel any chemistry between the MCs. It appears to me that the guy was only lust-driven, but he said he felt different with her. And yet his inner thoughts always come back to how horny he is or the things he wants to do with her. Idk, I never felt any emotional aspect, just pure carnal urges. 🤷♀️
Also, this is one of my go-to safe authors. So having no clarity as to whether this is a dual virgin or not is making me testy for some reason. Because most of her MCs usually are, and I really looooove that about her stories. But this one is so vague, though I know that the h was, nothing was given about the H, and the way he spoke or acted, he really seemed experienced, and that idea was more than enough to piss me off. Then again, this is a me problem, and other readers might be fine with it. 🤷♀️
Anyway, this was not for me. I also disliked that there's no background info given to the MCs. I don't even know their age, only that he looks a decade older than her. 🤧 I never imagined that the time would come when I wouldn't enjoy an LD book.
Hope other readers might find this more up their alley.
Book info:
- Novella
- Stalking
- Insta-love
- OWD (H's childhood friend caused some drama)
- HEA (married)
I can't help but compare them, but the first book is way better. I feel a disconnect here, and the timeline of this story is way too short. I know this is a novella, and it's expected to be fast-paced with insta-love, but I didn't feel any chemistry between the MCs. It appears to me that the guy was only lust-driven, but he said he felt different with her. And yet his inner thoughts always come back to how horny he is or the things he wants to do with her. Idk, I never felt any emotional aspect, just pure carnal urges. 🤷♀️
Also, this is one of my go-to safe authors. So having no clarity as to whether this is a dual virgin or not is making me testy for some reason. Because most of her MCs usually are, and I really looooove that about her stories. But this one is so vague, though I know that the h was, nothing was given about the H, and the way he spoke or acted, he really seemed experienced, and that idea was more than enough to piss me off. Then again, this is a me problem, and other readers might be fine with it. 🤷♀️
Anyway, this was not for me. I also disliked that there's no background info given to the MCs. I don't even know their age, only that he looks a decade older than her. 🤧 I never imagined that the time would come when I wouldn't enjoy an LD book.
Hope other readers might find this more up their alley.
Book info:
- Novella
- Stalking
- Insta-love
- OWD (H's childhood friend caused some drama)
- HEA (married)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2024
Safe
No cheating
No OM
Unwanted OW drama (Nikkie is a childhood neighbor that has a crush on Bowen but he never liked her back, nothing ever happened between them. She was more of a step sister to him and she warded off women which was convenient for him).
virgin h
No history at all on H, but I want to say if he isn't a virgin (never said it outright), he is close, let's call it virgin adjacent.
No separation
No gross condom use
HEA
I enjoyed this story, but not as much as "Neverland" (a fantastic DV). I did enjoy how Bowen is so OTT alpha and infatuated with his Ace (Elsa). He is a hero that get what he wants and is feared by people, he is imposing, and as soon as he sees Elsa, he is on the hunt. I personally love an OTT man that picks up his woman caveman style and ties her to him forever, before she even realises what is happening, it shows to me how deep his feelings are for her, and I love an alpha, take_no_prisoners king! Ace Melody's sister, the heroine from "Neverland", and hiding in witness protection program with her sister and their father. She is flighty, smart, and knows how to count cards to cheat at games in the Casino. She does it to help out with bills so it doesn't fall on the shoulders of her dad and sister. She is not greedy with her little counting cards thievery, but enough to help out her family financially. Bowen (owner of the Casino in Vegas) sees her and is instantly in love and lust for her, he is determined to make her his, and he does pulling out all the tricks, stalking, getting info, cloning her phone, digging into her past, he wants all of her and he has no issue going all out to do it. He is intense, persuasive, and unyielding, which I love and swoon over! He had a difficult past where he had to steal food as a child to feed himself and his mom, so he grew up to become this frightening, violent man that will not tolerate people taking what is his...except when it has to do with Ace. She took his heart, and his money from his Casino, but he was happy to give it to her, in exchange, he wants all of her. That is the gist of the story.
This is a cat and mouse story, with sexy scenes, a determined hero with a villainous streak, and a flighty heroine. There is a little miscommunication in the third act but it is resolved. It is a short novella that was quick to read with very little angst, and quick to digest. I recommend it but I enjoyed the first book more, because it's a definite DV. Bo (Bowen) does tell her, "I don't have women.", in the same breath he says,
“I won’t deny that I’m an asshole, but I don’t need to force myself on a woman.”
Even though this suggests that women come to him eagerly, to me, he is saying that if he had a woman, she would be willing, but chooses repeatedly not to because yes women want him, but it is very concrete that he doesn't want them, it is repeated many times that he doesn't want the attention of women, never has had an interest in them, and these feelings for Ace are new to him. Here is why I pretend or want to believe this is a DV (all the clues scream that is could be one!),
quote 1,
“I don’t drag women across my casino floor. Hell, I don’t think I’ve ever touched one.”
“Really?” I’m shocked by his words. Never in a million years would I have guessed that.
“Told you, Ace. You’re different.”
My eyes lit up when I read that! Could SHE be HIS one and only? *fingers crossed hoping* After all, HE is HER one and only. She has never even been kissed before him!
When I read it, I thought to myself, don't overthink it, he never touched a woman, so she is his first and that is how I read it the second time (yes, I read it twice!). My enjoyment of the story, making it a dual virgins romance, especially with all the context clues, made it so much more enjoyable. Still this vague uncertainty is what I wish wasn't there.
Quote 2 (this is where the unwanted OW makes our heroine jealous and she brings it up to the H),
“Just so you know, if you’re trying to get into my pants, maybe don’t bring me to where your ex-girlfriend works.”
“She was never my girlfriend. I don’t have girlfriends.” I roll my eyes.
“Fuck buddies.”
“Never fucked her.”.....(I wish he said, 'I never fucked anyone' instead.) *sigh*
Quote 3, (H's inner monologue on the unwanted OW)
"I hadn’t thought about her when I decided to come to the diner. Nikkie has always lived in this neighborhood. Her mother and mine were tight at one time. It was why I let her get away with as much as I did. Her games haven’t bothered me before. But now that I have something to lose, I won’t tolerate her nonsense. Nikkie has daggers for nails. In the past, it has fared well for me. She kept a lot of the girls away that I didn’t want to be bothered by. It worked—or it used to. To me, she’d always been like an annoying stepsister I had to put up with."
So Nikkie kept women away from Bowen, and it was convenient because he did not care to be with a woman, BUT he was never interested in her and nothing ever happened between them, and now that he wants his woman Ace, Nikkie is a hindrance and her presence is getting him angry. THIS is how you write OW drama, the OW has to be unwanted by the hero, and it has to be a woman he has never been with nor ever been interested in, actually, her crush on him was a good buffer to keep women away since she and other women never interested him.
He says he wants Ace to be her one and only, and I wish he said that she would be his one and only too. I am pretending that he is, all the context clues point to that, but it would be so nice if the hero tells the woman he loves, knowing he is her first and only, that she gets that same satisfaction of knowing without a shadow of a doubt, that he never had a woman before her and she is his first and only. His inner monologue when they are about to have sex is how it's her first time, and I wish he said "our first time". It would have made this book for me a 5 star if it were a definite DV, but just because there is that bit of doubt not knowing for sure nagging me, it is a 4/4.5 stars for me. Two more clues make me think it is a DV (I am really hoping over here), and it is when he first thrusts into her that instinct takes over. I loved that, because it was not experience but instinct, and when they wake up and cuddle, she says that he spent two days learning her body, so to me, when I reread this story, I will reread it with the two of them being each others first and last. It's how I chose to read it the second time (and in future). We do get this bit of a scene which I do love, it's when they cum together,
quote,
Ace (Elsa)“I want it. I want all of you.”
And that’s exactly what I give her. Every single bit of me, body and soul."
I will leave it at that! I enjoyed these two, I love how he loves her, with such passion, ferocity and intensity.
I recommend it, I enjoyed it, but I loved the first book more because it was definitely, without a doubt a dual virgin love story. I hope Lucy Darling writes DV romances in future, I really like her, and I loved "Neverland" (which I recommend and have reread and will reread again and again).I strongly recommend reading "Neverland" before "Wonderland" anyways because Easton and Melody's story is mentioned in the book, there is a whole chapter of Ace talking to her sister Melody about Easton. You need to know the full story before reading "Wonderland' in order to fully understand and have no questions that will certainly pop up if you haven't read it. Besides,Melody and Easton's story is so romantic!
I think I will be rereading this book in future. I am hope we get Noah's story, I am intrigued by him. Of course I am crossing fingers and toes that it will be a definite one true love/first and last/dual virgins story! *crossing fingers and toes!*
Happy reading!
No cheating
No OM
Unwanted OW drama (Nikkie is a childhood neighbor that has a crush on Bowen but he never liked her back, nothing ever happened between them. She was more of a step sister to him and she warded off women which was convenient for him).
virgin h
No history at all on H, but I want to say if he isn't a virgin (never said it outright), he is close, let's call it virgin adjacent.
No separation
No gross condom use
HEA
I enjoyed this story, but not as much as "Neverland" (a fantastic DV). I did enjoy how Bowen is so OTT alpha and infatuated with his Ace (Elsa). He is a hero that get what he wants and is feared by people, he is imposing, and as soon as he sees Elsa, he is on the hunt. I personally love an OTT man that picks up his woman caveman style and ties her to him forever, before she even realises what is happening, it shows to me how deep his feelings are for her, and I love an alpha, take_no_prisoners king! Ace Melody's sister, the heroine from "Neverland", and hiding in witness protection program with her sister and their father. She is flighty, smart, and knows how to count cards to cheat at games in the Casino. She does it to help out with bills so it doesn't fall on the shoulders of her dad and sister. She is not greedy with her little counting cards thievery, but enough to help out her family financially. Bowen (owner of the Casino in Vegas) sees her and is instantly in love and lust for her, he is determined to make her his, and he does pulling out all the tricks, stalking, getting info, cloning her phone, digging into her past, he wants all of her and he has no issue going all out to do it. He is intense, persuasive, and unyielding, which I love and swoon over! He had a difficult past where he had to steal food as a child to feed himself and his mom, so he grew up to become this frightening, violent man that will not tolerate people taking what is his...except when it has to do with Ace. She took his heart, and his money from his Casino, but he was happy to give it to her, in exchange, he wants all of her. That is the gist of the story.
This is a cat and mouse story, with sexy scenes, a determined hero with a villainous streak, and a flighty heroine. There is a little miscommunication in the third act but it is resolved. It is a short novella that was quick to read with very little angst, and quick to digest. I recommend it but I enjoyed the first book more, because it's a definite DV. Bo (Bowen) does tell her, "I don't have women.", in the same breath he says,
“I won’t deny that I’m an asshole, but I don’t need to force myself on a woman.”
Even though this suggests that women come to him eagerly, to me, he is saying that if he had a woman, she would be willing, but chooses repeatedly not to because yes women want him, but it is very concrete that he doesn't want them, it is repeated many times that he doesn't want the attention of women, never has had an interest in them, and these feelings for Ace are new to him. Here is why I pretend or want to believe this is a DV (all the clues scream that is could be one!),
quote 1,
“I don’t drag women across my casino floor. Hell, I don’t think I’ve ever touched one.”
“Really?” I’m shocked by his words. Never in a million years would I have guessed that.
“Told you, Ace. You’re different.”
My eyes lit up when I read that! Could SHE be HIS one and only? *fingers crossed hoping* After all, HE is HER one and only. She has never even been kissed before him!
When I read it, I thought to myself, don't overthink it, he never touched a woman, so she is his first and that is how I read it the second time (yes, I read it twice!). My enjoyment of the story, making it a dual virgins romance, especially with all the context clues, made it so much more enjoyable. Still this vague uncertainty is what I wish wasn't there.
Quote 2 (this is where the unwanted OW makes our heroine jealous and she brings it up to the H),
“Just so you know, if you’re trying to get into my pants, maybe don’t bring me to where your ex-girlfriend works.”
“She was never my girlfriend. I don’t have girlfriends.” I roll my eyes.
“Fuck buddies.”
“Never fucked her.”.....(I wish he said, 'I never fucked anyone' instead.) *sigh*
Quote 3, (H's inner monologue on the unwanted OW)
"I hadn’t thought about her when I decided to come to the diner. Nikkie has always lived in this neighborhood. Her mother and mine were tight at one time. It was why I let her get away with as much as I did. Her games haven’t bothered me before. But now that I have something to lose, I won’t tolerate her nonsense. Nikkie has daggers for nails. In the past, it has fared well for me. She kept a lot of the girls away that I didn’t want to be bothered by. It worked—or it used to. To me, she’d always been like an annoying stepsister I had to put up with."
So Nikkie kept women away from Bowen, and it was convenient because he did not care to be with a woman, BUT he was never interested in her and nothing ever happened between them, and now that he wants his woman Ace, Nikkie is a hindrance and her presence is getting him angry. THIS is how you write OW drama, the OW has to be unwanted by the hero, and it has to be a woman he has never been with nor ever been interested in, actually, her crush on him was a good buffer to keep women away since she and other women never interested him.
He says he wants Ace to be her one and only, and I wish he said that she would be his one and only too. I am pretending that he is, all the context clues point to that, but it would be so nice if the hero tells the woman he loves, knowing he is her first and only, that she gets that same satisfaction of knowing without a shadow of a doubt, that he never had a woman before her and she is his first and only. His inner monologue when they are about to have sex is how it's her first time, and I wish he said "our first time". It would have made this book for me a 5 star if it were a definite DV, but just because there is that bit of doubt not knowing for sure nagging me, it is a 4/4.5 stars for me. Two more clues make me think it is a DV (I am really hoping over here), and it is when he first thrusts into her that instinct takes over. I loved that, because it was not experience but instinct, and when they wake up and cuddle, she says that he spent two days learning her body, so to me, when I reread this story, I will reread it with the two of them being each others first and last. It's how I chose to read it the second time (and in future). We do get this bit of a scene which I do love, it's when they cum together,
quote,
Ace (Elsa)“I want it. I want all of you.”
And that’s exactly what I give her. Every single bit of me, body and soul."
I will leave it at that! I enjoyed these two, I love how he loves her, with such passion, ferocity and intensity.
I recommend it, I enjoyed it, but I loved the first book more because it was definitely, without a doubt a dual virgin love story. I hope Lucy Darling writes DV romances in future, I really like her, and I loved "Neverland" (which I recommend and have reread and will reread again and again).I strongly recommend reading "Neverland" before "Wonderland" anyways because Easton and Melody's story is mentioned in the book, there is a whole chapter of Ace talking to her sister Melody about Easton. You need to know the full story before reading "Wonderland' in order to fully understand and have no questions that will certainly pop up if you haven't read it. Besides,Melody and Easton's story is so romantic!
I think I will be rereading this book in future. I am hope we get Noah's story, I am intrigued by him. Of course I am crossing fingers and toes that it will be a definite one true love/first and last/dual virgins story! *crossing fingers and toes!*
Happy reading!
April 9, 2024
I had high hopes for this book after Never land (book 1), but this one was a little flat for me 😬 like ma boobs 😂😂
I love when there's a Cinderella aspect to romance books and this one definitely had it in the beginning! He sees her in his casino counting cards all sneaky deeky like and it drives him crazy that he doesn't know who she is 😍 so he has her followed 😈😈
After they meet though, there was nothing really there to keep me interested 😭🤷🤷 there was some ow drama with his friend who is a girl and not a girlfriend but Lucy darling always handles this well and has Rowan shut that shit down quickly.
But things arent really explained well. I know this is a novella but there's no ages or much description or anything to make it different from her (and all the other authors out there) other books 🤔.
Definitely read Neverland first though! That helps explain this book a lot more!
Dang, I wish I can write a better review but I read another book quickly after this and forget a lot of what happened because I so old 😂😂 and this book is a bit forgettable 😐😐😐😂😂😂😂😂🙄👀
I love when there's a Cinderella aspect to romance books and this one definitely had it in the beginning! He sees her in his casino counting cards all sneaky deeky like and it drives him crazy that he doesn't know who she is 😍 so he has her followed 😈😈
After they meet though, there was nothing really there to keep me interested 😭🤷🤷 there was some ow drama with his friend who is a girl and not a girlfriend but Lucy darling always handles this well and has Rowan shut that shit down quickly.
But things arent really explained well. I know this is a novella but there's no ages or much description or anything to make it different from her (and all the other authors out there) other books 🤔.
Definitely read Neverland first though! That helps explain this book a lot more!
Dang, I wish I can write a better review but I read another book quickly after this and forget a lot of what happened because I so old 😂😂 and this book is a bit forgettable 😐😐😐😂😂😂😂😂🙄👀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2024
Safe
No cheating
No OM
Unwanted OW drama (Nikkie is a childhood neighbor that has a crush on Bowen but he never liked her back, nothing ever happened between them. She was more of a step sister to him and she warded off women which was convenient for him).
virgin h
No history at all on H, but I want to say if he isn't a virgin (never said it outright), he is close, let's call it virgin adjacent.
No separation
No gross condom use
HEA
I enjoyed this story, but not as much as "Neverland" (a fantastic DV). I did enjoy how Bowen is so OTT alpha and infatuated with his Ace (Elsa). He is a hero that get what he wants and is feared by people, he is imposing, and as soon as he sees Elsa, he is on the hunt. I personally love an OTT man that picks up his woman caveman style and ties her to him forever, before she even realises what is happening, it shows to me how deep his feelings are for her, and I love an alpha, take_no_prisoners king! Ace is Melody's sister, the heroine from "Neverland", and hiding in witness protection program with her sister and their father. She is flighty, smart, and knows how to count cards to cheat at games in the Casino. She does it to help out with bills so it doesn't fall on the shoulders of her dad and sister. She is not greedy with her little counting cards thievery, but enough to help out her family financially. Bowen (owner of the Casino in Vegas) sees her and is instantly in love and lust for her, he is determined to make her his, and he does pulling out all the tricks, stalking, getting info, cloning her phone, digging into her past, he wants all of her and he has no issue going all out to do it. He is intense, persuasive, and unyielding, which I love and swoon over! He had a difficult past where he had to steal food as a child to feed himself and his mom, so he grew up to become this frightening, violent man that will not tolerate people taking what is his...except when it has to do with Ace. She took his heart, and his money from his Casino, but he was happy to give it to her, in exchange, he wants all of her. That is the gist of the story.
This is a cat and mouse story, with sexy scenes, a determined hero with a villainous streak, and a flighty heroine. There is a little miscommunication in the third act but it is resolved. It is a short novella that was quick to read with very little angst, and quick to digest. I recommend it but I enjoyed the first book more, because it's a definite DV. Bo (Bowen) does tell her, "I don't have women.", in the same breath he says,
“I won’t deny that I’m an asshole, but I don’t need to force myself on a woman.”
Even though this suggests that women come to him eagerly, to me, he is saying that if he had a woman, she would be willing, but chooses repeatedly not to because yes women want him, but it is very concrete that he doesn't want them, it is repeated many times that he doesn't want the attention of women, never has had an interest in them, and these feelings for Ace are new to him. Here is why I pretend or want to believe this is a DV (all the clues scream that is could be one!),
quote 1,
“I don’t drag women across my casino floor. Hell, I don’t think I’ve ever touched one.”
“Really?” I’m shocked by his words. Never in a million years would I have guessed that.
“Told you, Ace. You’re different.”
My eyes lit up when I read that! Could SHE be HIS one and only? *fingers crossed hoping* After all, HE is HER one and only. She has never even been kissed before him!
When I read it, I thought to myself, don't overthink it, he never touched a woman, so she is his first and that is how I read it the second time (yes, I read it twice!). My enjoyment of the story, making it a dual virgins romance, especially with all the context clues, made it so much more enjoyable. Still this vague uncertainty is what I wish wasn't there.
Quote 2 (this is where the unwanted OW makes our heroine jealous and she brings it up to the H),
“Just so you know, if you’re trying to get into my pants, maybe don’t bring me to where your ex-girlfriend works.”
“She was never my girlfriend. I don’t have girlfriends.” I roll my eyes.
“Fuck buddies.”
“Never fucked her.”.....(I wish he said, 'I never fucked anyone' instead.) *sigh*
Quote 3, (H's inner monologue on the unwanted OW)
"I hadn’t thought about her when I decided to come to the diner. Nikkie has always lived in this neighborhood. Her mother and mine were tight at one time. It was why I let her get away with as much as I did. Her games haven’t bothered me before. But now that I have something to lose, I won’t tolerate her nonsense. Nikkie has daggers for nails. In the past, it has fared well for me. She kept a lot of the girls away that I didn’t want to be bothered by. It worked—or it used to. To me, she’d always been like an annoying stepsister I had to put up with."
So Nikkie kept women away from Bowen, and it was convenient because he did not care to be with a woman, BUT he was never interested in her and nothing ever happened between them, and now that he wants his woman Ace, Nikkie is a hindrance and her presence is getting him angry. THIS is how you write OW drama, the OW has to be unwanted by the hero, and it has to be a woman he has never been with nor ever been interested in, actually, her crush on him was a good buffer to keep women away since she and other women never interested him.
He says he wants Ace to be her one and only, and I wish he said that she would be his one and only too. I am pretending that he is, all the context clues point to that, but it would be so nice if the hero tells the woman he loves, knowing he is her first and only, that she gets that same satisfaction of knowing without a shadow of a doubt, that he never had a woman before her and she is his first and only. His inner monologue when they are about to have sex is how it's her first time, and I wish he said "our first time". It would have made this book for me a 5 star if it were a definite DV, but just because there is that bit of doubt not knowing for sure nagging me, it is a 4/4.5 stars for me. Two more clues make me think it is a DV (I am really hoping over here), and it is when he first thrusts into her that instinct takes over. I loved that, because it was not experience but instinct, and when they wake up and cuddle, she says that he spent two days learning her body, so to me, when I reread this story, I will reread it with the two of them being each others first and last. It's how I chose to read it the second time (and in future). We do get this bit of a scene which I do love, it's when they cum together,
quote,
Ace (Elsa)“I want it. I want all of you.”
And that’s exactly what I give her. Every single bit of me, body and soul."
I will leave it at that! I enjoyed these two, I love how he loves her, with such passion, ferocity and intensity.
I recommend it, I enjoyed it, but I loved the first book more because it was definitely, without a doubt a dual virgin love story. I hope Lucy Darling writes DV romances in future, I really like her, and I loved "Neverland" (which I recommend and have reread and will reread again and again).I strongly recommend reading "Neverland" before "Wonderland" anyways because Easton and Melody's story is mentioned in the book, there is a whole chapter of Ace talking to her sister Melody about Easton. You need to know the full story before reading "Wonderland' in order to fully understand and have no questions that will certainly pop up if you haven't read it. Besides,Melody and Easton's story is so romantic!
I think I will be rereading this book in future. I am hope we get Noah's story, I am intrigued by him. Of course I am crossing fingers and toes that it will be a definite one true love/first and last/dual virgins story! *crossing fingers and toes!*
Happy reading!
No cheating
No OM
Unwanted OW drama (Nikkie is a childhood neighbor that has a crush on Bowen but he never liked her back, nothing ever happened between them. She was more of a step sister to him and she warded off women which was convenient for him).
virgin h
No history at all on H, but I want to say if he isn't a virgin (never said it outright), he is close, let's call it virgin adjacent.
No separation
No gross condom use
HEA
I enjoyed this story, but not as much as "Neverland" (a fantastic DV). I did enjoy how Bowen is so OTT alpha and infatuated with his Ace (Elsa). He is a hero that get what he wants and is feared by people, he is imposing, and as soon as he sees Elsa, he is on the hunt. I personally love an OTT man that picks up his woman caveman style and ties her to him forever, before she even realises what is happening, it shows to me how deep his feelings are for her, and I love an alpha, take_no_prisoners king! Ace is Melody's sister, the heroine from "Neverland", and hiding in witness protection program with her sister and their father. She is flighty, smart, and knows how to count cards to cheat at games in the Casino. She does it to help out with bills so it doesn't fall on the shoulders of her dad and sister. She is not greedy with her little counting cards thievery, but enough to help out her family financially. Bowen (owner of the Casino in Vegas) sees her and is instantly in love and lust for her, he is determined to make her his, and he does pulling out all the tricks, stalking, getting info, cloning her phone, digging into her past, he wants all of her and he has no issue going all out to do it. He is intense, persuasive, and unyielding, which I love and swoon over! He had a difficult past where he had to steal food as a child to feed himself and his mom, so he grew up to become this frightening, violent man that will not tolerate people taking what is his...except when it has to do with Ace. She took his heart, and his money from his Casino, but he was happy to give it to her, in exchange, he wants all of her. That is the gist of the story.
This is a cat and mouse story, with sexy scenes, a determined hero with a villainous streak, and a flighty heroine. There is a little miscommunication in the third act but it is resolved. It is a short novella that was quick to read with very little angst, and quick to digest. I recommend it but I enjoyed the first book more, because it's a definite DV. Bo (Bowen) does tell her, "I don't have women.", in the same breath he says,
“I won’t deny that I’m an asshole, but I don’t need to force myself on a woman.”
Even though this suggests that women come to him eagerly, to me, he is saying that if he had a woman, she would be willing, but chooses repeatedly not to because yes women want him, but it is very concrete that he doesn't want them, it is repeated many times that he doesn't want the attention of women, never has had an interest in them, and these feelings for Ace are new to him. Here is why I pretend or want to believe this is a DV (all the clues scream that is could be one!),
quote 1,
“I don’t drag women across my casino floor. Hell, I don’t think I’ve ever touched one.”
“Really?” I’m shocked by his words. Never in a million years would I have guessed that.
“Told you, Ace. You’re different.”
My eyes lit up when I read that! Could SHE be HIS one and only? *fingers crossed hoping* After all, HE is HER one and only. She has never even been kissed before him!
When I read it, I thought to myself, don't overthink it, he never touched a woman, so she is his first and that is how I read it the second time (yes, I read it twice!). My enjoyment of the story, making it a dual virgins romance, especially with all the context clues, made it so much more enjoyable. Still this vague uncertainty is what I wish wasn't there.
Quote 2 (this is where the unwanted OW makes our heroine jealous and she brings it up to the H),
“Just so you know, if you’re trying to get into my pants, maybe don’t bring me to where your ex-girlfriend works.”
“She was never my girlfriend. I don’t have girlfriends.” I roll my eyes.
“Fuck buddies.”
“Never fucked her.”.....(I wish he said, 'I never fucked anyone' instead.) *sigh*
Quote 3, (H's inner monologue on the unwanted OW)
"I hadn’t thought about her when I decided to come to the diner. Nikkie has always lived in this neighborhood. Her mother and mine were tight at one time. It was why I let her get away with as much as I did. Her games haven’t bothered me before. But now that I have something to lose, I won’t tolerate her nonsense. Nikkie has daggers for nails. In the past, it has fared well for me. She kept a lot of the girls away that I didn’t want to be bothered by. It worked—or it used to. To me, she’d always been like an annoying stepsister I had to put up with."
So Nikkie kept women away from Bowen, and it was convenient because he did not care to be with a woman, BUT he was never interested in her and nothing ever happened between them, and now that he wants his woman Ace, Nikkie is a hindrance and her presence is getting him angry. THIS is how you write OW drama, the OW has to be unwanted by the hero, and it has to be a woman he has never been with nor ever been interested in, actually, her crush on him was a good buffer to keep women away since she and other women never interested him.
He says he wants Ace to be her one and only, and I wish he said that she would be his one and only too. I am pretending that he is, all the context clues point to that, but it would be so nice if the hero tells the woman he loves, knowing he is her first and only, that she gets that same satisfaction of knowing without a shadow of a doubt, that he never had a woman before her and she is his first and only. His inner monologue when they are about to have sex is how it's her first time, and I wish he said "our first time". It would have made this book for me a 5 star if it were a definite DV, but just because there is that bit of doubt not knowing for sure nagging me, it is a 4/4.5 stars for me. Two more clues make me think it is a DV (I am really hoping over here), and it is when he first thrusts into her that instinct takes over. I loved that, because it was not experience but instinct, and when they wake up and cuddle, she says that he spent two days learning her body, so to me, when I reread this story, I will reread it with the two of them being each others first and last. It's how I chose to read it the second time (and in future). We do get this bit of a scene which I do love, it's when they cum together,
quote,
Ace (Elsa)“I want it. I want all of you.”
And that’s exactly what I give her. Every single bit of me, body and soul."
I will leave it at that! I enjoyed these two, I love how he loves her, with such passion, ferocity and intensity.
I recommend it, I enjoyed it, but I loved the first book more because it was definitely, without a doubt a dual virgin love story. I hope Lucy Darling writes DV romances in future, I really like her, and I loved "Neverland" (which I recommend and have reread and will reread again and again).I strongly recommend reading "Neverland" before "Wonderland" anyways because Easton and Melody's story is mentioned in the book, there is a whole chapter of Ace talking to her sister Melody about Easton. You need to know the full story before reading "Wonderland' in order to fully understand and have no questions that will certainly pop up if you haven't read it. Besides,Melody and Easton's story is so romantic!
I think I will be rereading this book in future. I am hope we get Noah's story, I am intrigued by him. Of course I am crossing fingers and toes that it will be a definite one true love/first and last/dual virgins story! *crossing fingers and toes!*
Happy reading!
March 22, 2024
It's always thrilling when the smart damsel in distress finds her villain in shining armor. This novella is the perfect example. The cute girl is using her talents to do something naughty. The problem is that the big bad boss is onto her and has devious and naughty plans of his own for her.
Of course, all the excitement comes from those interactions when she finds him irresistible and knows nothing about his dark side, so he lures her into his manly trap to keep her forever :-D
I enjoyed this story because it's exciting and lovely at the same time. I liked the setting at the casino and how relentless he is in protecting his little criminal. He's besotted! He's also dominant and very possessive.
The story deals with trust and family as well. I enjoyed the little twist when her problems explode and he goes berserk to save her. A lot of fun. Did I mention it's hot? It is. I love the cover, by the way. Couple!
Of course, all the excitement comes from those interactions when she finds him irresistible and knows nothing about his dark side, so he lures her into his manly trap to keep her forever :-D
I enjoyed this story because it's exciting and lovely at the same time. I liked the setting at the casino and how relentless he is in protecting his little criminal. He's besotted! He's also dominant and very possessive.
The story deals with trust and family as well. I enjoyed the little twist when her problems explode and he goes berserk to save her. A lot of fun. Did I mention it's hot? It is. I love the cover, by the way. Couple!
March 31, 2024
Great story but not as good as Neverland♥️
July 13, 2025
3.5🌟
Would have loved a clarification if the hero is a virgin or not.
Otherwise, so good. OTT H, virigin heroine and stalking.
But book one was much better.
Very small unwanted owd from his childhood friend who wants him, he have never had interest in her, but he says that she has scared away a lot of women for him, something that has been convenient for him, but he puts an end to her drama right away.
Would have loved a clarification if the hero is a virgin or not.
Otherwise, so good. OTT H, virigin heroine and stalking.
But book one was much better.
Very small unwanted owd from his childhood friend who wants him, he have never had interest in her, but he says that she has scared away a lot of women for him, something that has been convenient for him, but he puts an end to her drama right away.
April 5, 2024
O sea, yo sé cómo son estos libros pero aún así me los leo. Super exagerados y los hombres aquí qué ??????? 🤨
March 30, 2024
Lucy Darling is a go to for me, a quick read, but what she manages to get into a story packs a punch.
Instantly you are drawn to the storyline, the characters and the intensity of the attraction.
Relatable female leads, they are quirky, sweet and likeable.
No cheating, minimal drama and a heat factor that delivers.
It’s a yes from me.
Instantly you are drawn to the storyline, the characters and the intensity of the attraction.
Relatable female leads, they are quirky, sweet and likeable.
No cheating, minimal drama and a heat factor that delivers.
It’s a yes from me.
July 3, 2024
This was so cute! I actually liked this one more than Neverland, which is her sister's story.
April 10, 2024
So fun
Love these short, smexy reads by Lucy Darling! The heros are always alphas with a marshmallow center for their women. Highly recommend
Love these short, smexy reads by Lucy Darling! The heros are always alphas with a marshmallow center for their women. Highly recommend
April 9, 2024
s h e l v e s :
age gap
alpha
cinderella
instalove
men in suits
moves her in
obsessed stalker behavior
ott
possessive
princess treatment pampering
protective
rich hero
sits her in his lap
take care of you
virgin
wife her up
k i n k s :
bondage
breeding
dry humping
no condom
praise
spanking
e n d e a r m e n t s :
♥︎ my little ace
e n d i n g :
HEA + babies
🔥
age gap
alpha
cinderella
instalove
men in suits
moves her in
obsessed stalker behavior
ott
possessive
princess treatment pampering
protective
rich hero
sits her in his lap
take care of you
virgin
wife her up
k i n k s :
bondage
breeding
dry humping
no condom
praise
spanking
e n d e a r m e n t s :
♥︎ my little ace
e n d i n g :
HEA + babies
🔥
April 11, 2024
great follow up to Neverland
Lucy Darling is one of my favorite Authors. This is the follow up to her book Neverland.
Ace aka Elsa is the younger sister living under the Wistic witness protection program.
She loves to count cards and is actually very good at it. She catches the eye and attention of Casino owner Bowen Knight.
What follows is intense love connection, some pretty hot steamy scenes and some drama surrounding her father.
This was an enjoyable,entertaining book, so glad we got to see Elsa’s story.
Highly recommend
Lucy Darling is one of my favorite Authors. This is the follow up to her book Neverland.
Ace aka Elsa is the younger sister living under the Wistic witness protection program.
She loves to count cards and is actually very good at it. She catches the eye and attention of Casino owner Bowen Knight.
What follows is intense love connection, some pretty hot steamy scenes and some drama surrounding her father.
This was an enjoyable,entertaining book, so glad we got to see Elsa’s story.
Highly recommend
December 14, 2024
I really liked this story of obsession and love. It was entertaining and enjoyable. Bowen (Bo) was over the top obsessed with Elsa (Ace) as soon as he saw her. Ace was supposed to be keeping a low profile but instead she was out catching the attention of a (formerly?!?) dangerous man. Bo was a bit of a stalker all in the name of making sure he knew how to find her. He was awesome and made me smile several times. Ace had good intentions but it’s good that she ran into Bo. I loved their happily ever after. I recommend reading this book.
April 1, 2024
I love the insta-love trope and this book was superb. Bowen fell in love with Elsa just seeing her on his security monitors. Elsa, Ace, was trying to help the family by using her unique set of skills. Unbeknownst to her, she set off a whole chain reaction of events. Every one of which Bo stepped in and saved her. I loved that Bo simply protected Elsa, allowing her to spread her wings. And a little sneak of Melody and Easton didn’t hurt.
April 4, 2024
I absolutely loved Neverland and didn’t think Elsa’s love story would top her sister’s, but boy was I wrong. Bo and Elsa’s story had me giggling and kicking my feet. Bo being a rich and powerful man and a protective possessive hero did it for me. I was OBSESSED with how much Bo was obsessed with Elsa and how he only had eyes for her. Ugh, this book just made me want to manifest a Bo in my life too! 😭
April 4, 2024
Bowen & Elsa
Wonderland is a highly anticipated book, finally knowing the story of Elsa and Bowen. Elsa was supposed to keep a low profile to keep her identity secret, but on a visit to one of the many casinos she was going to play at, she met Bowen and he knew he couldn’t let her go. With all the complications they have, they get to be together and have their HEA.
Wonderland is a highly anticipated book, finally knowing the story of Elsa and Bowen. Elsa was supposed to keep a low profile to keep her identity secret, but on a visit to one of the many casinos she was going to play at, she met Bowen and he knew he couldn’t let her go. With all the complications they have, they get to be together and have their HEA.
April 7, 2024
Good Read!!
I like that Bowen knew all along what Ace/Elsa was up too. I like that he would do anything to protect her and the found their happily ever after in each other. I would have liked more background on the woman in the diner and Bowen relationship towards each other. Other than that good writing. Another five star read for me.
I like that Bowen knew all along what Ace/Elsa was up too. I like that he would do anything to protect her and the found their happily ever after in each other. I would have liked more background on the woman in the diner and Bowen relationship towards each other. Other than that good writing. Another five star read for me.
July 1, 2024
Better than the first book, but that was a low bar.
I found this duet through the second book and decided to read them in order. I wasn’t impressed with the first book and this one wasn’t much better. Both had interesting plot ideas that fell flat due to angsty quips and lack of world building. I liked this couple better and the writing was a smidge more tolerable.
I found this duet through the second book and decided to read them in order. I wasn’t impressed with the first book and this one wasn’t much better. Both had interesting plot ideas that fell flat due to angsty quips and lack of world building. I liked this couple better and the writing was a smidge more tolerable.
July 1, 2024
Bowen and Elsa
Possessive man finds his little thief and makes her his wife. Their story is cute and steamy. They really feel a connection from the very beginning. It's cute to see them develop more feelings when they spend time together. It's got spice, action and a little bit of drama.
Possessive man finds his little thief and makes her his wife. Their story is cute and steamy. They really feel a connection from the very beginning. It's cute to see them develop more feelings when they spend time together. It's got spice, action and a little bit of drama.
October 1, 2024
This wasn’t one my favorites by this author. Usually eat her stories up like potato chips but I don’t know, I was just kind of bored through this one. I can’t say it was bad, maybe I just wasn’t in the right mood.
Totally safe in all aspects. She’s a V, no word on his past exploits but I don’t think he was a V.
Totally safe in all aspects. She’s a V, no word on his past exploits but I don’t think he was a V.
April 6, 2024
loved this story
Ace/Elsa has been counting cards at Bowen Knights casino and Bo has been watching. More than watching, he looks forward to seeing her. He has to have her. Can he catch his Ace and keep her. Loved this story, fast paced, well written, steamy and hot. Great read.
Ace/Elsa has been counting cards at Bowen Knights casino and Bo has been watching. More than watching, he looks forward to seeing her. He has to have her. Can he catch his Ace and keep her. Loved this story, fast paced, well written, steamy and hot. Great read.
April 7, 2024
this book was an ace.
This was a good addition to the series. I liked the characters and their connections and how he was attentive and sweet with her. I only wish it had another epilogue
This was a good addition to the series. I liked the characters and their connections and how he was attentive and sweet with her. I only wish it had another epilogue
April 25, 2024
No idea
I have no idea why I really liked this fast book. Even though it was short and moved quickly, the story line, the characters, it just worked together really well. I say read this book. Shirley
I have no idea why I really liked this fast book. Even though it was short and moved quickly, the story line, the characters, it just worked together really well. I say read this book. Shirley
April 30, 2024
Amazing
I was dying to know if Elsa would get her own HEA. Elsa loved reading about bad boys and she got her very own bad boy with benefits… No spoilers here, this is a must read!!!
I was dying to know if Elsa would get her own HEA. Elsa loved reading about bad boys and she got her very own bad boy with benefits… No spoilers here, this is a must read!!!
October 11, 2024
Perfect!
Short, sweet, and with a little side of sass! Ace and Bo are that cute ying and yang couple that you can't help but love! It would be awesome if Reggie got his own story too!
Short, sweet, and with a little side of sass! Ace and Bo are that cute ying and yang couple that you can't help but love! It would be awesome if Reggie got his own story too!
April 1, 2024
in love!
I couldn’t wait for the next Lucy darling book!
This one definitely did not disappoint! Ace and Bo are made for each other. Looking forward to the next one
I couldn’t wait for the next Lucy darling book!
This one definitely did not disappoint! Ace and Bo are made for each other. Looking forward to the next one
April 3, 2024
Bowen and Elsa just belong together! Such a wonderful and beautiful love story! Soo soo good! I absolutly loved it! 😍❤️🔥🥰
April 11, 2024
Great read
I loved Ace! What a spitfire! Bo was hilarious! Keeping ahead of her was a job itself! And Ms. Darling knocks another one out the park!
I loved Ace! What a spitfire! Bo was hilarious! Keeping ahead of her was a job itself! And Ms. Darling knocks another one out the park!
April 13, 2024
“Now that I know she exists, there is no other option for me but for her to be mine in every way so she can never escape me.”
-Bowen Knight, from Wonderland by Lucy Darling
-Bowen Knight, from Wonderland by Lucy Darling
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