What do you think?
Rate this book
Eluded
Lives intersect only to be changed indefinitely...
Lauren
This isn't your typical girl meets boy.
There isn't a glass slipper or Prince Charming.
I've lived it and now it will be told.
Welcome to my personal hell...
Derrick
I once saved lives and now... I so easily end them.
Women are drawn to me like a moth to the flame, and like the moth not all of them continue on. Some are broken, others are damaged, and a few never make it out... but it's their decision to live. Only they often don't know that until it's too late.
F*ck the rules, I create my own in a world where I have nothing left to lose. Living is a game, and I'm the reigning champion by being stronger and smarter than my prey.
This is your warning. If you radiate vulnerability... Well, you could be my next victim. Don't try to hide. I'm not easily eluded.
Abbot
It started with me and now it will end with me.
Some people call me an uncontrollable killing monster. I f*cking laugh at the mention of the word.
Monsters have no control.
I've got plenty.
I don't kill without reason. I don't kill the innocent.
I hunt the ones that deserve it, the real monsters, the ones without regret or a soul.
Lauren
This isn't your typical girl meets boy.
There isn't a glass slipper or Prince Charming.
I've lived it and now it will be told.
Welcome to my personal hell...
Derrick
I once saved lives and now... I so easily end them.
Women are drawn to me like a moth to the flame, and like the moth not all of them continue on. Some are broken, others are damaged, and a few never make it out... but it's their decision to live. Only they often don't know that until it's too late.
F*ck the rules, I create my own in a world where I have nothing left to lose. Living is a game, and I'm the reigning champion by being stronger and smarter than my prey.
This is your warning. If you radiate vulnerability... Well, you could be my next victim. Don't try to hide. I'm not easily eluded.
Abbot
It started with me and now it will end with me.
Some people call me an uncontrollable killing monster. I f*cking laugh at the mention of the word.
Monsters have no control.
I've got plenty.
I don't kill without reason. I don't kill the innocent.
I hunt the ones that deserve it, the real monsters, the ones without regret or a soul.
ebook
First published July 26, 2014
25 people are currently reading
1974 people want to read
About the author
Lyra Parish
22 books2,342 followersLyra Parish is a hopeless romantic obsessed with writing spicy Hallmark-like romances. When she isn’t immersed in fictional worlds, you can find her pretending to be a Vanlifer with her hubby. Lyra loves coffee, the great outdoors, authentic people, and living her best life.
To learn more, please subscribe to Lyra's newsletter: https://bit.ly/lyraparishnewsletter
To learn more, please subscribe to Lyra's newsletter: https://bit.ly/lyraparishnewsletter
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
August 2, 2014
When I read a book, I’m looking for a certain feeling, a certain set of emotions. I want to get lost in the story - I want the words to consume me, the characters to devour me. When I finished reading Eluded, I had all of those feelings plus more. This book reached inside and grabbed hold of my heart, squeezing it and not letting go. Dark reads have a way of doing that to you - they twist up your insides, your emotions, they open you up to a new world of possibilities. Eluded was no exception - it will well surpass your expectations and satisfy your dark desires. Its just that damn good.
“An eye for an eye, a finger for a finger, or blood for blood. What-the-fuck-ever.” This is the motto that Abbott lives by. He is the leader of the Gang of London, the king of the underworld. He keeps the streets clean from monsters and delivers swift punishment to those that cross him or threaten the city he’s vowed to protect. He is London’s dark vigilante, the savior they didn’t know they needed. While he views himself as a cold-blooded killer - that couldn’t be farther from the truth, and we learn that explicitly throughout the book. As a boy, 15 years earlier - he was the only witness to his sister’s brutal kidnapping. An event that has haunted him since that day. The guilt eats at him and fuels his anger - its this event that changed the course of his life and had him rising up to fight to rid London of the sex trafficking ring that is slowly growing bigger by the minute.
Lauren. A young and beautiful American, she finds herself in London following her fiance around the world on the hope of true love. She is restless and unsettled. Henry is not her forever, he doesn’t give her that excitement that she craves, he doesn’t understand her need for something more. The longer she is with him, the less and less she is able to deny that he is not what she wants. He is not her true love. Exploring the city in hopes of finding something that awakens her, she has a chance run-in with a stranger. A stranger that intrigues her. The connection is instant, a current of electricity flowing between them. Fearing for her safety, Abbott keeps close watch on her, or at least that’s what he tells himself. He too feels the connection - she has something he wants. She brings out feelings in him he didn’t know existed. A stunning betrayal has Lauren on the run, and just when it looks as though she and Abbott may get the chance to explore their feelings - the unthinkable happens. She is taken.
Derrick. An insatiable, blood thirsty, sadistic monster. He takes women for his own sick pleasure, uses them until they cease to please him, and callously discards them as though they are no more than yesterday’s trash. Capturing Lauren thrilled him. She was alluring and innocent. She drew him to her like a moth to a flame, used his ego against him and secured her own survival by committing inconceivable acts. All in the name of freedom. He viewed her as his perfect partner, one he wanted to possess, to own, to break to his will. Women to Derrick were expendable toys, but Lauren was different - his need to have her consumed him.
Abbott raises hell in London fighting to rescue Lauren. No resource is left untouched, no lead left unfollowed. But the longer Lauren is with Derrick, the farther she falls into her own game. Will the price of her cunning game of eluding Derrick be her soul? The clock is ticking…
This is a book that didn’t stop. Even after I read the last word, I was flicking my Kindle hoping for more. Lyra Parish spins a dark web of deceit, dark pleasurable desire and in the middle of it all - hope. In a word - fan-fucking-tastic.
This isn’t a fight between good and evil, its a battle of wills, a battle of evil and dark. Who will be the last ones standing?
You know what to do to find out…
✰ 4 Deliciously Wicked Stars ✰
xo Cassia
deliciouslywickedbooks.com
“An eye for an eye, a finger for a finger, or blood for blood. What-the-fuck-ever.” This is the motto that Abbott lives by. He is the leader of the Gang of London, the king of the underworld. He keeps the streets clean from monsters and delivers swift punishment to those that cross him or threaten the city he’s vowed to protect. He is London’s dark vigilante, the savior they didn’t know they needed. While he views himself as a cold-blooded killer - that couldn’t be farther from the truth, and we learn that explicitly throughout the book. As a boy, 15 years earlier - he was the only witness to his sister’s brutal kidnapping. An event that has haunted him since that day. The guilt eats at him and fuels his anger - its this event that changed the course of his life and had him rising up to fight to rid London of the sex trafficking ring that is slowly growing bigger by the minute.
Lauren. A young and beautiful American, she finds herself in London following her fiance around the world on the hope of true love. She is restless and unsettled. Henry is not her forever, he doesn’t give her that excitement that she craves, he doesn’t understand her need for something more. The longer she is with him, the less and less she is able to deny that he is not what she wants. He is not her true love. Exploring the city in hopes of finding something that awakens her, she has a chance run-in with a stranger. A stranger that intrigues her. The connection is instant, a current of electricity flowing between them. Fearing for her safety, Abbott keeps close watch on her, or at least that’s what he tells himself. He too feels the connection - she has something he wants. She brings out feelings in him he didn’t know existed. A stunning betrayal has Lauren on the run, and just when it looks as though she and Abbott may get the chance to explore their feelings - the unthinkable happens. She is taken.
Derrick. An insatiable, blood thirsty, sadistic monster. He takes women for his own sick pleasure, uses them until they cease to please him, and callously discards them as though they are no more than yesterday’s trash. Capturing Lauren thrilled him. She was alluring and innocent. She drew him to her like a moth to a flame, used his ego against him and secured her own survival by committing inconceivable acts. All in the name of freedom. He viewed her as his perfect partner, one he wanted to possess, to own, to break to his will. Women to Derrick were expendable toys, but Lauren was different - his need to have her consumed him.
Abbott raises hell in London fighting to rescue Lauren. No resource is left untouched, no lead left unfollowed. But the longer Lauren is with Derrick, the farther she falls into her own game. Will the price of her cunning game of eluding Derrick be her soul? The clock is ticking…
This is a book that didn’t stop. Even after I read the last word, I was flicking my Kindle hoping for more. Lyra Parish spins a dark web of deceit, dark pleasurable desire and in the middle of it all - hope. In a word - fan-fucking-tastic.
This isn’t a fight between good and evil, its a battle of wills, a battle of evil and dark. Who will be the last ones standing?
You know what to do to find out…
✰ 4 Deliciously Wicked Stars ✰
xo Cassia
deliciouslywickedbooks.com
Want to read
July 26, 2014☆ I received an ARC from LBTS PR in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!! ☆
How SERIOUSLY DELICIOUS is this guy or what?!
This isn't your typical girl meets boy.
There isn't a glass slipper or Prince Charming.
I've lived it and now it will be told.
Welcome to my personal hell...
*
I once saved lives and now... I so easily end them.
Women are drawn to me like a moth to the flame, and like the moth not all of them continue on. Some are broken, others are damaged, and a few never make it out... but it's their decision. Only they often don't know that until it's too late.
Fuck the rules, I create my own in a world where I have nothing left to lose. Living is a game, and I'm the reigning champion by being stronger and smarter than my prey.
This is your warning. If you radiate vulnerability... Well, you could be my next victim. Don't try to hide. I'm not easily eluded.
Expected publication: July 21st 2014
How SERIOUSLY DELICIOUS is this guy or what?!
This isn't your typical girl meets boy.
There isn't a glass slipper or Prince Charming.
I've lived it and now it will be told.
Welcome to my personal hell...
*
I once saved lives and now... I so easily end them.
Women are drawn to me like a moth to the flame, and like the moth not all of them continue on. Some are broken, others are damaged, and a few never make it out... but it's their decision. Only they often don't know that until it's too late.
Fuck the rules, I create my own in a world where I have nothing left to lose. Living is a game, and I'm the reigning champion by being stronger and smarter than my prey.
This is your warning. If you radiate vulnerability... Well, you could be my next victim. Don't try to hide. I'm not easily eluded.
Expected publication: July 21st 2014
August 27, 2014
3.5 Stars!
Review to come.
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
December 3, 2014
How can a book start out with SO MUCH PROMISE, and then end on the note that it did?
I just don't get it. The 1st half of this book was very interesting. It had great set up for the characters, what was going on in their worlds as individuals, but it also had a great underlying tone. One that left the impression that this book is not only going to take you through the rabbit hole, but it's going to show you some new things as well.
But sadly it doesn't. By the the time you get to the half way mark, you realize this. You realize that all the dark, dangerous, but undeniable pull of all the depravity that's happening, never really has a point to it. And never really goes anywhere. It's just there to be there. So once you get in the second half of the story, everything turns into these simple, easily worked out solutions, in spite of all that you've witnessed occurring up to this point.
The fact that Lauren's POV/inner monologue begins to dominate when things appear to be coming to a close, was a bad thing. Cos what she says & does for the most part, are not only irritating & TSTL moves, but her whole perspective seems to take on a very "Simpleton" type of tone. It doesn't represent at all, what a young woman in her situation and all the things she has endured thus far, would really do, think or feel. IMO. So this is what turned me off to Lauren eventually.
Then we have our "Dark Anti-Hero" Abbot, who let's face it, is crazy. But you do have an extreme amount of sympathy for him as you're getting to know him, until his POV all but disappears. And by the very end of the book he seems nothing more than a cookie cutter poor substitute, compared to any other Kick-A** anti hero you've read before.
Finally there is our really crazy, deranged "Bad Boy" Derrick. Who I will admit, during the 1st half of this book scared the crap out of me. Had me wanting to know why he is the way he is and WTH could have happened to such a beautiful man, & turned him into the monster before me. I actually had more sympathy & pull for him, than I did Abbot. But sadly as his motives/actions/purpose began to be revealed, alongside such a lackluster attempt at the execution of the happenings surrounding all these characters & the characters themselves, I lost complete interest and was very disappointed with how it all played out and why. It was just a big blob of pointless to me. Even the things that were revealed that was supposed to cause an "OMG! NO!" reaction, still left me like this...
So, no I didn't like this book at all. And even though the 1st half had me going crazy & riveted, the 2nd half completely ruined it to the point where I couldn't give this one more than one star.
No, I would not recommend this read.
I just don't get it. The 1st half of this book was very interesting. It had great set up for the characters, what was going on in their worlds as individuals, but it also had a great underlying tone. One that left the impression that this book is not only going to take you through the rabbit hole, but it's going to show you some new things as well.
But sadly it doesn't. By the the time you get to the half way mark, you realize this. You realize that all the dark, dangerous, but undeniable pull of all the depravity that's happening, never really has a point to it. And never really goes anywhere. It's just there to be there. So once you get in the second half of the story, everything turns into these simple, easily worked out solutions, in spite of all that you've witnessed occurring up to this point.
The fact that Lauren's POV/inner monologue begins to dominate when things appear to be coming to a close, was a bad thing. Cos what she says & does for the most part, are not only irritating & TSTL moves, but her whole perspective seems to take on a very "Simpleton" type of tone. It doesn't represent at all, what a young woman in her situation and all the things she has endured thus far, would really do, think or feel. IMO. So this is what turned me off to Lauren eventually.
Then we have our "Dark Anti-Hero" Abbot, who let's face it, is crazy. But you do have an extreme amount of sympathy for him as you're getting to know him, until his POV all but disappears. And by the very end of the book he seems nothing more than a cookie cutter poor substitute, compared to any other Kick-A** anti hero you've read before.
Finally there is our really crazy, deranged "Bad Boy" Derrick. Who I will admit, during the 1st half of this book scared the crap out of me. Had me wanting to know why he is the way he is and WTH could have happened to such a beautiful man, & turned him into the monster before me. I actually had more sympathy & pull for him, than I did Abbot. But sadly as his motives/actions/purpose began to be revealed, alongside such a lackluster attempt at the execution of the happenings surrounding all these characters & the characters themselves, I lost complete interest and was very disappointed with how it all played out and why. It was just a big blob of pointless to me. Even the things that were revealed that was supposed to cause an "OMG! NO!" reaction, still left me like this...
So, no I didn't like this book at all. And even though the 1st half had me going crazy & riveted, the 2nd half completely ruined it to the point where I couldn't give this one more than one star.
No, I would not recommend this read.
January 17, 2015
Loved this book..wonderful writing..what does Eluded mean?
well I looked it up to make sure I knew what it was referring to our story.
e·lude (ĭ-lo͞od′) tr.v. e·lud·ed, e·lud·ing, e·ludes.
1. To evade or escape from, as by daring, cleverness, or skill:
The suspect eluded the police.
Our main hero, Abbot does Elude the law, love and some of his enemies.
but one enemy comes back to haunt him and make his life a living hell
Derrick Black.
Soon Abbot meets Lauren, little does he know that Derrick will fancy her
as well.
This is their story of revenge, lawlessness, murder, mayhem and righting
the underworld of London. Abducting ladies right off the street, enslaving
them, some live some do not..rape and torture.
My heart is right there with a 12 year old Abbot, his rage and helplessness,seeing
his sister being kidnapped. This rage and anger motivate Abbot, and he has never
loved or opened his heart to feel fear, much less Love.
He is ruthless, he's a killer. AND you will love him!
Abbot wants to do the right thing..he might actually want to become a good guy.
Let's cheer him on..Abbot won't Elude Love for long!! ♥ ♥
This is my kind of book..Thank you for writing this..am excited to read more of your books.
well I looked it up to make sure I knew what it was referring to our story.
e·lude (ĭ-lo͞od′) tr.v. e·lud·ed, e·lud·ing, e·ludes.
1. To evade or escape from, as by daring, cleverness, or skill:
The suspect eluded the police.
Our main hero, Abbot does Elude the law, love and some of his enemies.
but one enemy comes back to haunt him and make his life a living hell
Derrick Black.
Soon Abbot meets Lauren, little does he know that Derrick will fancy her
as well.
This is their story of revenge, lawlessness, murder, mayhem and righting
the underworld of London. Abducting ladies right off the street, enslaving
them, some live some do not..rape and torture.
My heart is right there with a 12 year old Abbot, his rage and helplessness,seeing
his sister being kidnapped. This rage and anger motivate Abbot, and he has never
loved or opened his heart to feel fear, much less Love.
He is ruthless, he's a killer. AND you will love him!
Abbot wants to do the right thing..he might actually want to become a good guy.
Let's cheer him on..Abbot won't Elude Love for long!! ♥ ♥
This is my kind of book..Thank you for writing this..am excited to read more of your books.
September 17, 2014
WOOOW! JUST WOOOW!
This book was crazy,disturbed and twisted on so many levels that I thought my mind would explode!
First,if you are easy ofended and can't stand violence please skip this book.
Believe me,this one ain't gonna work for you!
But for me...woooho,it was refreshing!
It was nice change from all those limunades that I've read in last few months.
This is not hearts and roses kind of book.
It's dark,painful,disturbed rolercoaster of feelings.
In some chapters I wanted to slap hero and heroine with their book,and in the another I enjoyed every word!
Hero was driving me mad almost entire book.
He suposed to be most powerfull man in London and he let his woman kidnapped by that asshole Derrick and raped,and beaten,and humiliated...
You son of a motherles goat!!!
You were screwing around while she was tortured!!!
And heroine was equally stupid too.
You'll se how stupid...
This book was crazy,disturbed and twisted on so many levels that I thought my mind would explode!
First,if you are easy ofended and can't stand violence please skip this book.
Believe me,this one ain't gonna work for you!
But for me...woooho,it was refreshing!
It was nice change from all those limunades that I've read in last few months.
This is not hearts and roses kind of book.
It's dark,painful,disturbed rolercoaster of feelings.
In some chapters I wanted to slap hero and heroine with their book,and in the another I enjoyed every word!
Hero was driving me mad almost entire book.
He suposed to be most powerfull man in London and he let his woman kidnapped by that asshole Derrick and raped,and beaten,and humiliated...
You son of a motherles goat!!!
You were screwing around while she was tortured!!!
And heroine was equally stupid too.
You'll se how stupid...
Read
July 22, 2014I won't rate this book yet because I've beta-read it and the book will undergo some changes.
Can't wait to read this dark romance book!!
Can't wait to read this dark romance book!!
August 4, 2016
Hero is some kind of Batman (minus the mask)and he knows Shakespeare.
"At that moment, a group of men were holding a meeting with hopes of taking over my city."
"Drug lords, gangsters, murders, and rapists had planned to take over my city? No fucking way. London was already claimed."
Then we have Laurenen who is engaged but not really happy.:
"I constantly hid my feelings to not hurt his.
What the fuck was I doing here?
Maybe I was having a pre-midlife crisis. Do most twenty-five-year-olds experience that?
I constantly asked myself if I was in love, but I could never answer the question.
I did love Henry, and I truly cared about him."
So many options, don't know what to choose..
Conclusion
May 20, 2015
Im not sure how to voice how I feel about this one. I didnt hate it, but I didnt love it. I can't say it's even memorable. What I do know is that darker reads are becoming more popular, but not everyone is cut out to write a darker read. And this is one of those times. But Im left feeling just kind of meh--
July 19, 2014
I finished reading this last night. And oh boy you are in for a right treat!
Full review to follow after release date.
Full review to follow after release date.
July 28, 2014
Dark Romances can be very hit and miss for me personally. Lyra Parish however DOES NOT DISAPPOINT. Eluded is a standalone novel that follows Lauren and Abbot in a dual perspective narrative. Eluded embeds a screeching bewilderment of pure emotion and incandescent raw despairing wickedness. In a narrative steaming intertwining the darkness of the world; it was one book I just couldn’t put down. I’m not one to read dark romances all to often but I love Lyra’s raw passion and work so of course I dove in head first willing myself into the darkness of blackest romances.
“I search for adventure. I love control. When I find trouble, I make it my bitch.” Eluded by Lyra Parish
Eluded isn’t your average romance, its not roses and hearts. It’s hard-hitting; with subjects of sexual abuse and violence covered within the layers of within the narrative. The dark conceded world is deep-rooted within the narrative of Eluded and rings truth to pain unseen by many in life. I loved and worshiped Lyra’s deep amendment into the narrative as Lauren and Abbot struggle and bewitch their own hearts to survival. Eluded is very much the darkness of the world subsiding in the act of survival. It’s dark. Its connections within are hate-filled with rivalry and angst. It was pure perfection of the blackest and rawest bared down form.
5 STARS!
P.S LOVE SHAKESPEARE!
“I search for adventure. I love control. When I find trouble, I make it my bitch.” Eluded by Lyra Parish
Eluded isn’t your average romance, its not roses and hearts. It’s hard-hitting; with subjects of sexual abuse and violence covered within the layers of within the narrative. The dark conceded world is deep-rooted within the narrative of Eluded and rings truth to pain unseen by many in life. I loved and worshiped Lyra’s deep amendment into the narrative as Lauren and Abbot struggle and bewitch their own hearts to survival. Eluded is very much the darkness of the world subsiding in the act of survival. It’s dark. Its connections within are hate-filled with rivalry and angst. It was pure perfection of the blackest and rawest bared down form.
5 STARS!
P.S LOVE SHAKESPEARE!
August 31, 2014
This book was so much more than I expected! Once I started this, I could not put it down. This is not your typical romance. This is not a woman meeting her prince-charming type of story. This is very dark and twisted and not intended for those who have weaker hearts.
Abbot is a man who lives his life taking out the vicious, evil people in London. His main focus is on the ones who kidnap, rape, sell, and even kill innocent women. This stemming from his youth when his sister was kidnapped while they were out and he was powerless to stop them. He has no issue with killing men and making them pay for the terror and horrific crimes they commit.
Lauren is in London with her fiancé for his job. It is apparent in the beginning of the book she is not happy with him. She has perfected the art of making life appear happy and carefree, while inside she is dying a little more each day.
A chance encounter turns both their worlds upside-down. They're drawn to each other, a feeling neither one can deny. When Abbot finds out Lauren has been marked, he wants to grab her first and make sure they don't have a chance to get her. Only by the time he realizes the mark, they've already made their move and she is gone.
There is so much more I want to say about this book but I refuse to give any spoilers. The twists and turns leave you desperate to keep reading, wanting to know what will happen next. How will she survive? Will Abbot find her in time? This is a must read!!
Abbot is a man who lives his life taking out the vicious, evil people in London. His main focus is on the ones who kidnap, rape, sell, and even kill innocent women. This stemming from his youth when his sister was kidnapped while they were out and he was powerless to stop them. He has no issue with killing men and making them pay for the terror and horrific crimes they commit.
Lauren is in London with her fiancé for his job. It is apparent in the beginning of the book she is not happy with him. She has perfected the art of making life appear happy and carefree, while inside she is dying a little more each day.
A chance encounter turns both their worlds upside-down. They're drawn to each other, a feeling neither one can deny. When Abbot finds out Lauren has been marked, he wants to grab her first and make sure they don't have a chance to get her. Only by the time he realizes the mark, they've already made their move and she is gone.
There is so much more I want to say about this book but I refuse to give any spoilers. The twists and turns leave you desperate to keep reading, wanting to know what will happen next. How will she survive? Will Abbot find her in time? This is a must read!!
August 20, 2014
4.5 sexual and violent stars...great read!
the good:
-All of the main characters are amazing. Lauren is resilient and always maintained her sense of self in her mind- even during the kidnapping. Abbot is a sexy 'hero' type man that I will be dreaming about tonight. Derrick is deliciously evil. Loved his character the most! He was evil through and through and definitely made an amazing bad guy.
-I do like how the author did not pay much attention to describing their surroundings which made the reader focus more on the dark story unfolding.
-the sex in the book was pretty good. book porn baby!!
-I know I have stated it already- but I LOVED Lauren's character. A strong and selfless female character; what could be better than that?!
the not so good:
-I felt the 'love story' was a bit rushed...not gonna lie. POSSIBLE SPOILER-: They meet. a day later she's taken. and BOOM- she thinks of him during sex and wants him. not too convincing!
would definitely recommend this book to all of my GR friends!
the good:
-All of the main characters are amazing. Lauren is resilient and always maintained her sense of self in her mind- even during the kidnapping. Abbot is a sexy 'hero' type man that I will be dreaming about tonight. Derrick is deliciously evil. Loved his character the most! He was evil through and through and definitely made an amazing bad guy.
-I do like how the author did not pay much attention to describing their surroundings which made the reader focus more on the dark story unfolding.
-the sex in the book was pretty good. book porn baby!!
-I know I have stated it already- but I LOVED Lauren's character. A strong and selfless female character; what could be better than that?!
the not so good:
-I felt the 'love story' was a bit rushed...not gonna lie. POSSIBLE SPOILER-: They meet. a day later she's taken. and BOOM- she thinks of him during sex and wants him. not too convincing!
would definitely recommend this book to all of my GR friends!
July 29, 2014
Advance Readers Copy (ARC) provided for my blog by the lovely author Lyra Parish via blog tour.
Thanks, Lyra I can't wait to meet my newest book boyfriend
Rating: 5 Steaming Hot Stars
Cover: 10
Plot: 10
Heroine: 7
Hero: 9
Ending:
Series:
Lyra Parish did it again. Anything she writes is pure gold. She could do no wrong. I have nothing bad to say about this book because I loved it from the very first page. This book is a page turner. I read it in 3 hours. I could hardly put it down even though I had to work the next day.
Let me tell you the sex scenes in this novel is H-O-T. very detailed. I loved the characters. I felt very connected too all of them even the secondary ones. This is not your typical romance novel. It's dark, edgy with twisted hero's.
But all you wanted was to have them get a happy ending. I highly recommend everyone to pick this up. I promise you will fall in love with it and Lyra Parish.
Thanks, Lyra I can't wait to meet my newest book boyfriend
Rating: 5 Steaming Hot Stars
Cover: 10
Plot: 10
Heroine: 7
Hero: 9
Ending:
Series:
Lyra Parish did it again. Anything she writes is pure gold. She could do no wrong. I have nothing bad to say about this book because I loved it from the very first page. This book is a page turner. I read it in 3 hours. I could hardly put it down even though I had to work the next day.
Let me tell you the sex scenes in this novel is H-O-T. very detailed. I loved the characters. I felt very connected too all of them even the secondary ones. This is not your typical romance novel. It's dark, edgy with twisted hero's.
But all you wanted was to have them get a happy ending. I highly recommend everyone to pick this up. I promise you will fall in love with it and Lyra Parish.
November 2, 2014
Un banned
This was an amazing book. I am glad that it was unbanned and put back in the readers hands for us to decide. I could not put this book down and need there to be a second book soon, so I know what happens with the other important characters.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves a dark read. You won't be disappointed. Excellent writing indeed.
This was an amazing book. I am glad that it was unbanned and put back in the readers hands for us to decide. I could not put this book down and need there to be a second book soon, so I know what happens with the other important characters.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves a dark read. You won't be disappointed. Excellent writing indeed.
August 8, 2014
Well...it was dark..maybe even too dark for my taste. But I really liked this book, it was different and in a good way.
July 29, 2014
Beta read this book while Lyra wrote it. That may sound awesome to some of you, and it really fucking is, but my sanity is tested during the writing process while I'm screaming in agony for the wait of the next chapter. So yeah, I received this story in bits in pieces by Lyra for my honest opinion while she laughed maniacally.
Lyra is one of the few authors who elicits a response from me of this magnitude: HOLY...MOTHER...FUCKING...SHIT...BALLS!
I find it nerve wracking to write a review about Lyra's books. How do you write a review to do such a story justice?!?! I can't, but here it goes anyway.
Eluded is the story of Abbot, the King of the streets of London. If you've read the Weakness series he may seem familiar. He's a friend of Finnley's that makes an appearance. Although he has been in that series for a short period of time, you DO NOT have to read that series to understand this book. Should you?! FUCK YES YOU SHOULD! But only because the Weakness series is flipping amazing and you do not want to miss out on Finnley or Luketon. #finnlukesandwich
Anywho back to Abbot. He runs all along side his Motley Crew. The man is scared of nothing.
When I find trouble, I make it my bitch.
One fucked up crazy experience leads him to making decision after decision that guides his life into being what it is.
Everyone tries to blame my life choices on my parents' guidance, but the result of my actions are by choice. My mum and dad loved and supported me. They told me I could be anything I wanted when I grew up until I became what I am today--a cold-earted killer. No one expected that one.
Some may think him scary, and he definitely is and can be, but a lot see him for what he really is--a person who deals out justice and doesn't tolerate people doing wrong against one another, especially against women and children. The cautious looks that cover their faces when he is around is smart. They may fear him, but they deeply respect him and know that he will take care of business on the streets.
His streets are becoming an issue right now. Someone is moving in on his city and running drugs and kidnapping women off of the streets. That shit don't fly in Abbot's city. They are intent on finding out who is doing this and protecting as many women as possible, even if it means killing the bastards.
Enter Lauren, who is staying in London with her fiancee Henry for his job. The poor girl is beyond being content with her relationship and has realized how much she has disappeared as a person being with Henry.
I closed my eyes and twisted the ring in circles on my finger as the panic attack built. I hated that burst of adrenaline that coursed through my veins when I felt trapped. It was almost suffocating. I counted to ten and it slowly vanished. When I slipped the ring from my finger, the invisible chains loosened. A person shouldn't feel that way if it was meant to be. It wasn't normal....I feel like a square being pushed through a circle mold. I knew that if my edges were ground to nothing then smoothed, I could be a circle. But I would always be a square at heart.
The two bump into each other and by the way she looks he knows that she fits the description of the other women who were being taken. They spend one afternoon together and he is drawn to her. They share a passion for the written word. Abbot being the very observant man he is knows how different she is, broken almost, and can feel the call within himself to save her from whatever it is that has killed her inside. Because of that they have this connection and he reaches out to her.
"When I need to clear my head, I come up here and look over the city. I think of all the people in London and what they are doing at this exact moment. I am able to find myself when I feel completely insignificant. Odd, I know, but it's comforting to know that a billion insignificant creatures make up something so beautiful and together we are able to experience life, life right now, together."
He calls his men to watch her, but they aren't quick enough and she is taken. Abbot looses his shit on the hunt for her, as past memories flood him. He is drawn to her and doesn't understand why. But if he has any chance at all of a future he knows she has to be alive and in it. Although he is drawn to her that doesn't keep him from playing. Cause let's face it, real men like that don't fall madly in love at first sight. He might want her, but he's gonna get his elsewhere until he finds her.
The waitress strutted her ass as she walked towards me with that devious smile that said she would rock my world over and over again if I'd let her. Her tits burst out of the top of her dress and I wanted to take her in the back and fuck her senseless.
Abbot doesn't realize that part of his past is getting ready to come back to bite him in the ass. Crazyass Derrick is moving in on his territory and has quite the eye for Lauren as well. Lauren has made friends with her cell mate, and it's a good thing or she would probably end up dead really fast. They make a pact to stick by one another and bring down their captor together, especially since he has taken a liking to them both. But when Derrick learns that Lauren knows who Abbot is, he sends her out as weapon so to speak to get even, but Lauren can't and won't let someone get hurt because of her so she sacrifices herself.
What happens next makes my head spin and I'm sure yours will too. This spin off story to the Weakness series is leaps and bounds different. Lyra took it in a totally different direction than even I expected. This story isn't a dark romance like the others you have read. It's not a romance driven story. It's a plot driven story that keeps you on your toes every step of the way. The things these characters have to endure are dark, sickening, and at times you think like Lauren. You enjoyed it here and there and it makes you sick to your stomach. You pray that Abbot is able to get to her in time and that some kind of happiness will happen for them because they both have endured way too much to not have something good.
I fucking loved this story. I couldn't get enough. Abbott can whisper sonnets in my ear all damn day long! Loved loved loved his character, he is like this amazing, faceted smokey quartz. And Lauren, I loved her character too. Both have this streak of love for humanity that runs so deep they would be willing to do anything to help someone. That alone speaks a thousands words about both of them.
Here I am rambling. I can't say enough good things about this story, obviously. Read this book! It's OMG fucking good. Lyra, once again you rocked it girl.
You never cease to amaze me at all. <3 Keep them coming <3
Lyra is one of the few authors who elicits a response from me of this magnitude: HOLY...MOTHER...FUCKING...SHIT...BALLS!
I find it nerve wracking to write a review about Lyra's books. How do you write a review to do such a story justice?!?! I can't, but here it goes anyway.
Eluded is the story of Abbot, the King of the streets of London. If you've read the Weakness series he may seem familiar. He's a friend of Finnley's that makes an appearance. Although he has been in that series for a short period of time, you DO NOT have to read that series to understand this book. Should you?! FUCK YES YOU SHOULD! But only because the Weakness series is flipping amazing and you do not want to miss out on Finnley or Luketon. #finnlukesandwich
Anywho back to Abbot. He runs all along side his Motley Crew. The man is scared of nothing.
When I find trouble, I make it my bitch.
One fucked up crazy experience leads him to making decision after decision that guides his life into being what it is.
Everyone tries to blame my life choices on my parents' guidance, but the result of my actions are by choice. My mum and dad loved and supported me. They told me I could be anything I wanted when I grew up until I became what I am today--a cold-earted killer. No one expected that one.
Some may think him scary, and he definitely is and can be, but a lot see him for what he really is--a person who deals out justice and doesn't tolerate people doing wrong against one another, especially against women and children. The cautious looks that cover their faces when he is around is smart. They may fear him, but they deeply respect him and know that he will take care of business on the streets.
His streets are becoming an issue right now. Someone is moving in on his city and running drugs and kidnapping women off of the streets. That shit don't fly in Abbot's city. They are intent on finding out who is doing this and protecting as many women as possible, even if it means killing the bastards.
Enter Lauren, who is staying in London with her fiancee Henry for his job. The poor girl is beyond being content with her relationship and has realized how much she has disappeared as a person being with Henry.
I closed my eyes and twisted the ring in circles on my finger as the panic attack built. I hated that burst of adrenaline that coursed through my veins when I felt trapped. It was almost suffocating. I counted to ten and it slowly vanished. When I slipped the ring from my finger, the invisible chains loosened. A person shouldn't feel that way if it was meant to be. It wasn't normal....I feel like a square being pushed through a circle mold. I knew that if my edges were ground to nothing then smoothed, I could be a circle. But I would always be a square at heart.
The two bump into each other and by the way she looks he knows that she fits the description of the other women who were being taken. They spend one afternoon together and he is drawn to her. They share a passion for the written word. Abbot being the very observant man he is knows how different she is, broken almost, and can feel the call within himself to save her from whatever it is that has killed her inside. Because of that they have this connection and he reaches out to her.
"When I need to clear my head, I come up here and look over the city. I think of all the people in London and what they are doing at this exact moment. I am able to find myself when I feel completely insignificant. Odd, I know, but it's comforting to know that a billion insignificant creatures make up something so beautiful and together we are able to experience life, life right now, together."
He calls his men to watch her, but they aren't quick enough and she is taken. Abbot looses his shit on the hunt for her, as past memories flood him. He is drawn to her and doesn't understand why. But if he has any chance at all of a future he knows she has to be alive and in it. Although he is drawn to her that doesn't keep him from playing. Cause let's face it, real men like that don't fall madly in love at first sight. He might want her, but he's gonna get his elsewhere until he finds her.
The waitress strutted her ass as she walked towards me with that devious smile that said she would rock my world over and over again if I'd let her. Her tits burst out of the top of her dress and I wanted to take her in the back and fuck her senseless.
Abbot doesn't realize that part of his past is getting ready to come back to bite him in the ass. Crazyass Derrick is moving in on his territory and has quite the eye for Lauren as well. Lauren has made friends with her cell mate, and it's a good thing or she would probably end up dead really fast. They make a pact to stick by one another and bring down their captor together, especially since he has taken a liking to them both. But when Derrick learns that Lauren knows who Abbot is, he sends her out as weapon so to speak to get even, but Lauren can't and won't let someone get hurt because of her so she sacrifices herself.
What happens next makes my head spin and I'm sure yours will too. This spin off story to the Weakness series is leaps and bounds different. Lyra took it in a totally different direction than even I expected. This story isn't a dark romance like the others you have read. It's not a romance driven story. It's a plot driven story that keeps you on your toes every step of the way. The things these characters have to endure are dark, sickening, and at times you think like Lauren. You enjoyed it here and there and it makes you sick to your stomach. You pray that Abbot is able to get to her in time and that some kind of happiness will happen for them because they both have endured way too much to not have something good.
I fucking loved this story. I couldn't get enough. Abbott can whisper sonnets in my ear all damn day long! Loved loved loved his character, he is like this amazing, faceted smokey quartz. And Lauren, I loved her character too. Both have this streak of love for humanity that runs so deep they would be willing to do anything to help someone. That alone speaks a thousands words about both of them.
Here I am rambling. I can't say enough good things about this story, obviously. Read this book! It's OMG fucking good. Lyra, once again you rocked it girl.
You never cease to amaze me at all. <3 Keep them coming <3
October 2, 2014
***Received an ARC copy of Eluded by the author, Lyra Parish, in exchange for an honest review***
This isn't your typical girl meets boy.
There isn't a glass slipper or Prince Charming.
I've lived it and now it will be told.
Welcome to my personal hell...
Eluded is very different than Lyra’s other books. This one is a lot darker than her weakness series and deals with more sensitive issues. Eluded can be read as a standalone but I HIGHLY recommend reading Lyra’s weakness series first. Abbot is introduced in Weak Without Him (Weakness #2) and some of the timelines over lap. I believe by reading WWH first and reading about Abbot from someone else’s perspective, it made my reading experience of Eluded more enjoyable.
As a young boy Abbott had to witness the kidnapping of his own sister without being able to save her. The guilt and angry that haunts him has turned him into the man he is today. Fifteen years later Abbot is now the leader of the gang of London. He is not your typical gang leader working to keep the streets of London clean and safe rather than cause the dangers most gangs do. He is the vigilante of London doing whatever is necessary to keep the people of London safe and because of the things he has done, without remorse, to those who intend to bring his city harm he sees himself as a cold blooded killer. He has no issues with who he is and with the increasing number of women being kidnapped and forced into sex slavery he will do everything and anything he has to stop this from happening even if he has to paint the streets of London red with blood.
“An eye for an eye, a finger for a finger, or blood for blood. What-the-fuck-ever.”
Lauren has followed her fiancé, Henry, from the U.S. to London because of his job. Lately she has been having second thoughts about Henry and the life they are living. But she pushes her feeling to the back of her mind reasoning that it’s because she is in a new country pretty much all alone his her fiancé works all the time. While out on an errand trying to clear her mind she has a run in with a captivating stranger who makes her heart pound and dream about things that she shouldn’t be with her fiancé waiting at home for her, but a early trip home from running errands causes Lauren to learn that her “perfect” fiancé is actually far from it and committing the ultimate betrayal so when her sexy stranger finds her again she is willing to give into the crazy chemistry she feels between them.
Abbot can’t deny the instant connection he feels to the American beauty and because she fits the description of the type of women being kidnapped he knows he has do whatever it takes to keep this from happening, even if it means kidnapping her himself.
“I would break her down and build her back up the way I wanted.”
But before he is able to follow through with his plan, Lauren is taken by the very men he was trying to save her from. Now he is really ready to raise hell to get back the women who has sparked a flame in him that he hasn’t felt in a very long time. He is willing to do anything, even if it means losing what little bit of his soul he has left.
Confused and scared out of her mind Lauren doesn’t know what is happening to her and takes comfort in her cell mate, Sophie. Sophie teaches Lauren how to survive the hands of Derrick the sadistic monster running the operation. Captivated by the innocent new girl who “appreciates” what he does for her makes him want to posses and own her along with her cell mate who has been the only women he has been unable to break, but even though they are both now “his” that doesn’t stop him from doing everything he can to break them.
This book was intense and fast past. Lyra writes a captivating story that leaves us guessing until the very end. I just wish the ending had a little more. I would have really like to see a final confrontation between Henry and Lauren about what he did to her and I want to know what is going on with Sophie. Some big things were revealed about her, but I felt like there was so much more to know.
After a long and heart breaking struggle I’m glad Abbot and Lauren were able to find their HEA.
“There is nothing more beautiful than getting lost in the right now with you. You’re safe now, Lauren. You’re safe with me.”
“As we confessed our feeling to one another, I knew at that moment, she did exactly what I intended to do to her. Lauren broke me down and built me back the way she wanted, and as long as she’d have me, I’d be hers. Forever.”
This isn't your typical girl meets boy.
There isn't a glass slipper or Prince Charming.
I've lived it and now it will be told.
Welcome to my personal hell...
Eluded is very different than Lyra’s other books. This one is a lot darker than her weakness series and deals with more sensitive issues. Eluded can be read as a standalone but I HIGHLY recommend reading Lyra’s weakness series first. Abbot is introduced in Weak Without Him (Weakness #2) and some of the timelines over lap. I believe by reading WWH first and reading about Abbot from someone else’s perspective, it made my reading experience of Eluded more enjoyable.
As a young boy Abbott had to witness the kidnapping of his own sister without being able to save her. The guilt and angry that haunts him has turned him into the man he is today. Fifteen years later Abbot is now the leader of the gang of London. He is not your typical gang leader working to keep the streets of London clean and safe rather than cause the dangers most gangs do. He is the vigilante of London doing whatever is necessary to keep the people of London safe and because of the things he has done, without remorse, to those who intend to bring his city harm he sees himself as a cold blooded killer. He has no issues with who he is and with the increasing number of women being kidnapped and forced into sex slavery he will do everything and anything he has to stop this from happening even if he has to paint the streets of London red with blood.
“An eye for an eye, a finger for a finger, or blood for blood. What-the-fuck-ever.”
Lauren has followed her fiancé, Henry, from the U.S. to London because of his job. Lately she has been having second thoughts about Henry and the life they are living. But she pushes her feeling to the back of her mind reasoning that it’s because she is in a new country pretty much all alone his her fiancé works all the time. While out on an errand trying to clear her mind she has a run in with a captivating stranger who makes her heart pound and dream about things that she shouldn’t be with her fiancé waiting at home for her, but a early trip home from running errands causes Lauren to learn that her “perfect” fiancé is actually far from it and committing the ultimate betrayal so when her sexy stranger finds her again she is willing to give into the crazy chemistry she feels between them.
Abbot can’t deny the instant connection he feels to the American beauty and because she fits the description of the type of women being kidnapped he knows he has do whatever it takes to keep this from happening, even if it means kidnapping her himself.
“I would break her down and build her back up the way I wanted.”
But before he is able to follow through with his plan, Lauren is taken by the very men he was trying to save her from. Now he is really ready to raise hell to get back the women who has sparked a flame in him that he hasn’t felt in a very long time. He is willing to do anything, even if it means losing what little bit of his soul he has left.
Confused and scared out of her mind Lauren doesn’t know what is happening to her and takes comfort in her cell mate, Sophie. Sophie teaches Lauren how to survive the hands of Derrick the sadistic monster running the operation. Captivated by the innocent new girl who “appreciates” what he does for her makes him want to posses and own her along with her cell mate who has been the only women he has been unable to break, but even though they are both now “his” that doesn’t stop him from doing everything he can to break them.
This book was intense and fast past. Lyra writes a captivating story that leaves us guessing until the very end. I just wish the ending had a little more. I would have really like to see a final confrontation between Henry and Lauren about what he did to her and I want to know what is going on with Sophie. Some big things were revealed about her, but I felt like there was so much more to know.
After a long and heart breaking struggle I’m glad Abbot and Lauren were able to find their HEA.
“There is nothing more beautiful than getting lost in the right now with you. You’re safe now, Lauren. You’re safe with me.”
“As we confessed our feeling to one another, I knew at that moment, she did exactly what I intended to do to her. Lauren broke me down and built me back the way she wanted, and as long as she’d have me, I’d be hers. Forever.”
September 13, 2014
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
Rating: 4.5
Lyra this is for you:
WOW! I totally had a great time reading this book! While reading Eluded, it was so hard to not be captivated from page one. It seriously felt like I was watching a movie instead of reading a book; I just couldn't look away. The action packed scenes totally kept my eyes glued to my iPad and the romantic scenes left me swooning. As Eluded deals with sex trafficking, it is definitely not a light read, so please take this into account before reading. Though scenes are graphic and some violent, I feel like it added to the realism of the book as things like this happen in real life to women around the world. Besides all this, Eluded also brings you characters you will fall for, especially certain someones .. ahhemm.. ABBOT <3 <3
"Freedom no longer existed for me. Death seemed like the only escape." -Lauren
It was hard not to sympathize with Lauren. The poor girl goes through so much. First she is betrayed by someone who she once thought would be her forever. And then when she's this close to going back home after being in a foreign place where she knows no one and actually meets someone she might like … BAM … life throws something at her again. Only this time, the wounds will be much more damaging and haunting. Through this ordeal we see her struggle to comprehend the situation she's in, experience loss, and accept that in order to survive she may just need to do things she never that she would do.
"Anyone who mistreated women in my fucking city was asking for a death wish, delivered on a silver platter by me." -Abbot
After a tragic experience and losing someone he cared about deeply, he becomes somewhat of a protector of his city. His methods are not very well liked, especially by the police, but they are very effective at taking out criminals so most leave him alone and turn the other way. As his work is dangerous, he doesn't let himself get close to anyone. The last thing he wants is for innocent people to be turned into prey at the hands of his enemies. It all changes once he meets and gets to know Lauren. His revenge driven mission, turns into something else entirely.
Overall, Eluded is such a great read; it's a thrill ride I would recommend to all romantic suspense book lovers!
Other Favorite Quotes:
"I wasn't one of those people who got off from murdering people, but to know that I could take something as precious as a human life with my bare hands made feel powerful in a sense. Invincibility didnt exist, but not feeling fear made killing easy, which in return made me dangerous." -Abbot
"He was like a black hole, strange and mysterious, with a gravitational force so intense that it sucked me right in." -Lauren
Rating: 4.5
Lyra this is for you:
WOW! I totally had a great time reading this book! While reading Eluded, it was so hard to not be captivated from page one. It seriously felt like I was watching a movie instead of reading a book; I just couldn't look away. The action packed scenes totally kept my eyes glued to my iPad and the romantic scenes left me swooning. As Eluded deals with sex trafficking, it is definitely not a light read, so please take this into account before reading. Though scenes are graphic and some violent, I feel like it added to the realism of the book as things like this happen in real life to women around the world. Besides all this, Eluded also brings you characters you will fall for, especially certain someones .. ahhemm.. ABBOT <3 <3
"Freedom no longer existed for me. Death seemed like the only escape." -Lauren
It was hard not to sympathize with Lauren. The poor girl goes through so much. First she is betrayed by someone who she once thought would be her forever. And then when she's this close to going back home after being in a foreign place where she knows no one and actually meets someone she might like … BAM … life throws something at her again. Only this time, the wounds will be much more damaging and haunting. Through this ordeal we see her struggle to comprehend the situation she's in, experience loss, and accept that in order to survive she may just need to do things she never that she would do.
"Anyone who mistreated women in my fucking city was asking for a death wish, delivered on a silver platter by me." -Abbot
After a tragic experience and losing someone he cared about deeply, he becomes somewhat of a protector of his city. His methods are not very well liked, especially by the police, but they are very effective at taking out criminals so most leave him alone and turn the other way. As his work is dangerous, he doesn't let himself get close to anyone. The last thing he wants is for innocent people to be turned into prey at the hands of his enemies. It all changes once he meets and gets to know Lauren. His revenge driven mission, turns into something else entirely.
Overall, Eluded is such a great read; it's a thrill ride I would recommend to all romantic suspense book lovers!
Other Favorite Quotes:
"I wasn't one of those people who got off from murdering people, but to know that I could take something as precious as a human life with my bare hands made feel powerful in a sense. Invincibility didnt exist, but not feeling fear made killing easy, which in return made me dangerous." -Abbot
"He was like a black hole, strange and mysterious, with a gravitational force so intense that it sucked me right in." -Lauren
November 15, 2014
So….oh where to start. It’s difficult for me to actually write what I want to write in this review because I don’t want to be a spoiler moiler!!
Ok, Lauren and Abbot meet and set off a chain of events of hate and revenge. Derrick kidnaps Lauren. She’s not the first girl he’s kidnapped and from what I understand, he kidnapped her in particular as some kind of revenge towards Abbot.
Abbot ran around London trying to find Lauren like Batman ran around Gotham city, keeping the innocent safe and clearing the streets of the bad people spoiling his city. Abbot was an anti-hero. He was a murderous bastard, but that’s ok because he only killed those who deserved to be killed.
Both Derrick and Abbot claimed to be monsters. They both classed themselves as evil fuckers that you don’t dare cross. But then Derrick was so dim, that he believed the insta-love Lauren showed him. She was playing the game to keep herself alive but Derrick bought into her lies. Meanwhile Abbot had a “thing” for Lauren after only meeting her a couple of times and decided he would be her saviour and at the same time ridding his streets of Derrick.
To me, there were plot holes. And this is where it gets tricky for me to review without giving anything away so I’ll try and keep it cryptic so if you haven’t read it, you won’t know what I’m on about, but if you have then you should say ah yes I can see where Rob doesn’t get it!!
From what I can gather, Abbot’s hate for Derrick stems from his girlfriend. But I don’t get why Derrick did what he did to her. I get that afterwards, why Derrick and Abbot hated each other but the original hate is what I don’t get! And to me, either I have missed a clue, or the author missed the mark.
I don’t think there was much background information about Derrick to say why he was the way he was. Abbot yes, I could see how he wanted to be some kind of superhero after what he witnessed 15 years earlier.
Lauren….well she was your typical damsel in distress that you come across in lots of books. Just escaped from a loveless relationship and falls in lust with a guy, Abbot, whom she’s met for a few minutes, whose touch and stare melts her underwear. I didn’t feel enough for her to feel her pain or to worry about her safety or even really care about her to be honest.
When I started reading this, I was impressed with the language the author used to describe events. She didn’t over-fluff the book and it did move along quite smoothly, with a very seamless POV change. But I think this book could have been so much better if it was darker. It wasn’t as dark as it could have been, it was more sunset than midnight.
This is the first book I’ve read by Lyra Parish and her writing style is easy to read and I think she had the basics of a good story here but because of the confusion over the hatred between Derrick and Abbot I had, I lost my way in this book.
Ok, Lauren and Abbot meet and set off a chain of events of hate and revenge. Derrick kidnaps Lauren. She’s not the first girl he’s kidnapped and from what I understand, he kidnapped her in particular as some kind of revenge towards Abbot.
Abbot ran around London trying to find Lauren like Batman ran around Gotham city, keeping the innocent safe and clearing the streets of the bad people spoiling his city. Abbot was an anti-hero. He was a murderous bastard, but that’s ok because he only killed those who deserved to be killed.
Both Derrick and Abbot claimed to be monsters. They both classed themselves as evil fuckers that you don’t dare cross. But then Derrick was so dim, that he believed the insta-love Lauren showed him. She was playing the game to keep herself alive but Derrick bought into her lies. Meanwhile Abbot had a “thing” for Lauren after only meeting her a couple of times and decided he would be her saviour and at the same time ridding his streets of Derrick.
To me, there were plot holes. And this is where it gets tricky for me to review without giving anything away so I’ll try and keep it cryptic so if you haven’t read it, you won’t know what I’m on about, but if you have then you should say ah yes I can see where Rob doesn’t get it!!
From what I can gather, Abbot’s hate for Derrick stems from his girlfriend. But I don’t get why Derrick did what he did to her. I get that afterwards, why Derrick and Abbot hated each other but the original hate is what I don’t get! And to me, either I have missed a clue, or the author missed the mark.
I don’t think there was much background information about Derrick to say why he was the way he was. Abbot yes, I could see how he wanted to be some kind of superhero after what he witnessed 15 years earlier.
Lauren….well she was your typical damsel in distress that you come across in lots of books. Just escaped from a loveless relationship and falls in lust with a guy, Abbot, whom she’s met for a few minutes, whose touch and stare melts her underwear. I didn’t feel enough for her to feel her pain or to worry about her safety or even really care about her to be honest.
When I started reading this, I was impressed with the language the author used to describe events. She didn’t over-fluff the book and it did move along quite smoothly, with a very seamless POV change. But I think this book could have been so much better if it was darker. It wasn’t as dark as it could have been, it was more sunset than midnight.
This is the first book I’ve read by Lyra Parish and her writing style is easy to read and I think she had the basics of a good story here but because of the confusion over the hatred between Derrick and Abbot I had, I lost my way in this book.
July 31, 2014
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Stop. Heed the warning. Digest it. Proceed at your own risk.
Because this is not your ordinary romantic tale. This is not princess-meeting-her-prince-charming type of story. So not intended for those who have weaker hearts.
Lauren had a nice life, it wasn’t perfect, but it was nice and comfortable. Until, she found her fiancé sleeping with his partner, and she was taken away and held hostage. Her nightmare began. But she stood there, holding on to a mere shred, not allowing herself to give up. She meets another girl, who have suffered way more than she did, far more longer, and was constantly tormented, he was always trying to break her – but this girl was strong too. And she was the one who helped her get through the nightmare day by day. What they didn’t know is that Sophia has more to her than just a mere prisoner.
Abbot was a bad, bad man. But has a purpose. Ever since his sister was taken away from him when he was twelve, and he has decided he will never be afraid anymore. He became the leader of the gang of London – they take women before they were even taken away. But instead of imprisoning them, they would send them free. They kill without conscience, but they only victimize the bad guys. They only kill the monsters, and never the innocent. But can the end justify the means?
Compare to Derrick, Abbot is a saint.
Am I ever ready to meet Derrick? I wished I never said that. I wished I never did.
Derrick – you would hate him, you would despise him, every cell in his body. He is evil personified. He can kill without conscience. Take women, use them, and then take their lives without second thought. He can give you nightmares, can cause you unwanted pleasure amidst the pain, and the threats that can give your body the chills (out of fear). He was out for revenge, and he’s got Abbot’s most important cards.
Eluded is DARK. Riveting. Thrilling. Captivating.
It was a journey in a dark, scary tunnel, and I was waiting to finally see the light in the end, if all the fear, if all these suffering will come to an end. Will I ever get to have a happy ending – this question lingered in my mind, until I finally get to read that part. I loved the twist, never saw that one coming, even the connection, and indeed, there is that rainbow after the storm.
Maybe what makes this book pretty special to me is because this is not my ordinary read, and yet I couldn’t help but get hooked in this extraordinary book written by one talented author!
•Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.•
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Stop. Heed the warning. Digest it. Proceed at your own risk.
Because this is not your ordinary romantic tale. This is not princess-meeting-her-prince-charming type of story. So not intended for those who have weaker hearts.
Lauren had a nice life, it wasn’t perfect, but it was nice and comfortable. Until, she found her fiancé sleeping with his partner, and she was taken away and held hostage. Her nightmare began. But she stood there, holding on to a mere shred, not allowing herself to give up. She meets another girl, who have suffered way more than she did, far more longer, and was constantly tormented, he was always trying to break her – but this girl was strong too. And she was the one who helped her get through the nightmare day by day. What they didn’t know is that Sophia has more to her than just a mere prisoner.
Abbot was a bad, bad man. But has a purpose. Ever since his sister was taken away from him when he was twelve, and he has decided he will never be afraid anymore. He became the leader of the gang of London – they take women before they were even taken away. But instead of imprisoning them, they would send them free. They kill without conscience, but they only victimize the bad guys. They only kill the monsters, and never the innocent. But can the end justify the means?
Compare to Derrick, Abbot is a saint.
Am I ever ready to meet Derrick? I wished I never said that. I wished I never did.
Derrick – you would hate him, you would despise him, every cell in his body. He is evil personified. He can kill without conscience. Take women, use them, and then take their lives without second thought. He can give you nightmares, can cause you unwanted pleasure amidst the pain, and the threats that can give your body the chills (out of fear). He was out for revenge, and he’s got Abbot’s most important cards.
Eluded is DARK. Riveting. Thrilling. Captivating.
It was a journey in a dark, scary tunnel, and I was waiting to finally see the light in the end, if all the fear, if all these suffering will come to an end. Will I ever get to have a happy ending – this question lingered in my mind, until I finally get to read that part. I loved the twist, never saw that one coming, even the connection, and indeed, there is that rainbow after the storm.
Maybe what makes this book pretty special to me is because this is not my ordinary read, and yet I couldn’t help but get hooked in this extraordinary book written by one talented author!
•Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.•
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
November 11, 2014
Here I am having a hard time deciding how I feel about ELUDED. ELUDED is well written and flows well, but I just didn't really connect or empathize very much with the characters. I can't quite put my finger on what was missing for me in this story. I am just going to chalk it up to the fact that not every story is for every reader.
Lauren falls victim to Abbot, a psychotic sex trafficker. Lauren is a young American who has come to London to be with her fiance. After being devastated by her fiance Lauren's world is irrevocably changed. Lauren is abducted and shoved into a world of nightmares and becomes witness and victim to an evil that is every woman's worst nightmare.
Abbot is a psychopath who has a driving need to take over the underworld of London while extracting his warped sense of revenge on Derrick. Abbot has created a ring of sex slave trafficking right under the nose of the man he once worked for and has now vowed to destroy him. Abbot is a completely unredeemable and sadistic character who very much needs to be stopped.
Derrick is a man that once believed justice could be achieved through legal means. After losing his sister to an abduction Derrick knew that he was meant to serve and protect the city that he loves, but quickly decides that the means to keeping London safe is more often than not found outside conventional laws. For Derrick justice isn't meted out in a courtroom but often in the back alleys, basements, and warehouses of places most people never venture into. Vigilante justice and his own sense of right and wrong is what drives Derrick. He's the Dark Knight of London instead of Gotham. However, unlike Batman Derrick doesn't leave his foes alive to face the legal system.
So why did I not eat this story up? I just don't know. All of the elements are there. A detailed story with a good plot and fully fleshed out characters are all there in ELUDED. There are many reviews from people who absolutely loved this book and I am definitely in the minority on this one. I actually think that I may try to reread this one again after a bit of time has passed and see if I have a different reaction.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
Lauren falls victim to Abbot, a psychotic sex trafficker. Lauren is a young American who has come to London to be with her fiance. After being devastated by her fiance Lauren's world is irrevocably changed. Lauren is abducted and shoved into a world of nightmares and becomes witness and victim to an evil that is every woman's worst nightmare.
Abbot is a psychopath who has a driving need to take over the underworld of London while extracting his warped sense of revenge on Derrick. Abbot has created a ring of sex slave trafficking right under the nose of the man he once worked for and has now vowed to destroy him. Abbot is a completely unredeemable and sadistic character who very much needs to be stopped.
Derrick is a man that once believed justice could be achieved through legal means. After losing his sister to an abduction Derrick knew that he was meant to serve and protect the city that he loves, but quickly decides that the means to keeping London safe is more often than not found outside conventional laws. For Derrick justice isn't meted out in a courtroom but often in the back alleys, basements, and warehouses of places most people never venture into. Vigilante justice and his own sense of right and wrong is what drives Derrick. He's the Dark Knight of London instead of Gotham. However, unlike Batman Derrick doesn't leave his foes alive to face the legal system.
So why did I not eat this story up? I just don't know. All of the elements are there. A detailed story with a good plot and fully fleshed out characters are all there in ELUDED. There are many reviews from people who absolutely loved this book and I am definitely in the minority on this one. I actually think that I may try to reread this one again after a bit of time has passed and see if I have a different reaction.
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
April 16, 2016
Wow! Ok, this is DARK FYI if you do not like DARK reads this book is NOT for you! I however, don’t mind a good dark read.
***WARNING RAPE SCENES AND PHYSICAL AND MENTAL ABUSE*******
With that here is my review of Eluded:
Laureen, she is a strong women! I mean the stuff she goes through in this book from the beginning to the end, wow. I love her strength and will to survive no matter what. I took that away from this story, strength to LIVE. It doesn’t start off dark, but it definitely gets there at a steady pace. Lauren moved to London with her fiance, she isn't the same either. She misses home, she misses her family and friends. Then, one day she walks in on her fiance and her world implodes. With that she has reason to run back home. Planning her return home from the hotel she was staying she felt “safe”. She walked to local stores and a few times bumped into a man named Abbot, (ok, so I may have a slight crush here) he seems so nice and she misses having someone to talk too. After bumping into him a few times, they talk. One night while in her room, all hell breaks loose and she is kidnapped. The darkness begins here. Not giving details, but it’s dark and the only light at the end of her tunnel will be Abbot. The twists and turns, the sadness, the loneliness, the hurt and humiliation and need to survive all comes rushing in. Talk about gripping your tablet too tight, holy crap! WOW!!
I feel weird saying I loved this, but I did. (shrugs my shoulders) no apologies, I don’t love the violence but I love the story of love, of survival of friendships that form. There is more to this than the darkness, there is also the light. So yes, I loved it and I recommend it to anyone who can stand some of the darkness that comes before the light sometimes. (only in books of course) I really want to learn more about Abbot, his sister and what really happened to her. I hope the author gives more of that.
***WARNING RAPE SCENES AND PHYSICAL AND MENTAL ABUSE*******
With that here is my review of Eluded:
Laureen, she is a strong women! I mean the stuff she goes through in this book from the beginning to the end, wow. I love her strength and will to survive no matter what. I took that away from this story, strength to LIVE. It doesn’t start off dark, but it definitely gets there at a steady pace. Lauren moved to London with her fiance, she isn't the same either. She misses home, she misses her family and friends. Then, one day she walks in on her fiance and her world implodes. With that she has reason to run back home. Planning her return home from the hotel she was staying she felt “safe”. She walked to local stores and a few times bumped into a man named Abbot, (ok, so I may have a slight crush here) he seems so nice and she misses having someone to talk too. After bumping into him a few times, they talk. One night while in her room, all hell breaks loose and she is kidnapped. The darkness begins here. Not giving details, but it’s dark and the only light at the end of her tunnel will be Abbot. The twists and turns, the sadness, the loneliness, the hurt and humiliation and need to survive all comes rushing in. Talk about gripping your tablet too tight, holy crap! WOW!!
I feel weird saying I loved this, but I did. (shrugs my shoulders) no apologies, I don’t love the violence but I love the story of love, of survival of friendships that form. There is more to this than the darkness, there is also the light. So yes, I loved it and I recommend it to anyone who can stand some of the darkness that comes before the light sometimes. (only in books of course) I really want to learn more about Abbot, his sister and what really happened to her. I hope the author gives more of that.
August 5, 2014
Thanks Author for ARC
These book was darker than the other books she has written.
Abbot is really, really dark character that something bad happen to him when little
he turns into these gang leader that helps to keep clean the streets of London. He Is The KING.
Lauren discovers her fiancé was cheating on her for a while. She then meets Abbot, and something clicks on him that he knows he has to keep her safe.
Derrick was the villain just a crazy F*****g Monster. He did Horrible things to Lauren and
He had these hated towards Abbot, he just wanted to destroy him.
Im not going to lie at first I thought these was going to be a love/ hate triangle but thank god it wasn't. im not going to tell the whole story but just let you know... You are in for a Rollercoaster.
its Dark but in the end Enjoyable.
Thanks againg To author for ARC
Here is the link to Buy it my link text
P.S Are we going to get a book for Sophie?
These book was darker than the other books she has written.
Abbot is really, really dark character that something bad happen to him when little
he turns into these gang leader that helps to keep clean the streets of London. He Is The KING.
Lauren discovers her fiancé was cheating on her for a while. She then meets Abbot, and something clicks on him that he knows he has to keep her safe.
Derrick was the villain just a crazy F*****g Monster. He did Horrible things to Lauren and
He had these hated towards Abbot, he just wanted to destroy him.
Im not going to lie at first I thought these was going to be a love/ hate triangle but thank god it wasn't. im not going to tell the whole story but just let you know... You are in for a Rollercoaster.
its Dark but in the end Enjoyable.
Thanks againg To author for ARC
Here is the link to Buy it my link text
P.S Are we going to get a book for Sophie?
July 29, 2014
Actual Rating 3.5 Stars
When I read the blurb I knew this book was right up my alley. I love dark romances so I was really excited to find out more.
It was an interesting book, I finished reading it in one go. Though at first I was iffy with the character's voices (POVs shifts from Lauren to Abbot) especially Abbot's. When he was describing himself he was like; I am this and I am that, I wasn't thrilled about it but hey that's just me.
The characters were interesting. The story was quite strong but the writing lacks impact. When you think about it, with the story and what the character was going through as in disturbing, horrible, miserable things. It should have been gut wrenching. I should be sobbing with what was happening to Lauren and with the other girls but it seems things were only happening in passing. There was no emotional impact.
Aside from that what I would improve is the characterization. It would be cool since the story was set in London and most of the characters were British if the characters sounded and felt British. There was no mention of British accents, slang or colloquialisms. I'm not expecting Harry Potter British, British but it would help, it would give the book more credibility and make it more believable.
Anyways, I'm not sure if this is a stand alone novel but I feel like there is a potential for this book to be a series.
August 2, 2014
♥♥♥♥♥♥♡♡♡♡♡♡This book deserves every star I gave it.♡♡♡♡♡♥♥♥♥♥
I absolutely love Lyra and the work she puts out, and let me tell you she nailed it with this one wow just wow, it was freaking amazing.
You start the book meeting Abbot a troubled young boy that loses his sister to a kidnapping, this totally changes Abbots view on life and moulds him into the man he is today a ruthless calculated killer (But in a hot damn sexy way) lol he only kills people who desrve it and he never kills women or children. The streets of London are his and No one will take them.
Lauren is an American who came to England with her fiance and you can tell from the beginning of the book she isnt happy, she is a timid person pleaser never really doing what she wants, I love the way she changes throughout the book and her charachter takes on a whole new persona.
Abbot and Lauren meet from a chance encounter and then they keep bumping into each other, you can tell straight away that there is chemistry between the two.
This is a must read book, it will take you to places you never dreamed you would end up and suprised at the outcome of certain situations.
My heart was in my mouth a few times.
Like I say definitely a must read I cant wait to buy the paperback, here's to many more awesome books put out by Lyra.
I absolutely love Lyra and the work she puts out, and let me tell you she nailed it with this one wow just wow, it was freaking amazing.
You start the book meeting Abbot a troubled young boy that loses his sister to a kidnapping, this totally changes Abbots view on life and moulds him into the man he is today a ruthless calculated killer (But in a hot damn sexy way) lol he only kills people who desrve it and he never kills women or children. The streets of London are his and No one will take them.
Lauren is an American who came to England with her fiance and you can tell from the beginning of the book she isnt happy, she is a timid person pleaser never really doing what she wants, I love the way she changes throughout the book and her charachter takes on a whole new persona.
Abbot and Lauren meet from a chance encounter and then they keep bumping into each other, you can tell straight away that there is chemistry between the two.
This is a must read book, it will take you to places you never dreamed you would end up and suprised at the outcome of certain situations.
My heart was in my mouth a few times.
Like I say definitely a must read I cant wait to buy the paperback, here's to many more awesome books put out by Lyra.
July 5, 2015
Ooooooooh >:( era iniziato così bene, maledizione! Abbot, leader della Gang di Londra, era così promettente, sempre con il coltello sottomano e pronto a squarciare gole a tutto spiano >.< ed era interessante anche l'attrazione con Lauren. Ma poi... puff, è sparito tutto perché Lauren è stata sequestrata. Ora, all'inizio era intrigante il rapporto malato con Derrik e ne poteva nascere veramente qualcosa di epico, secondo me, ma il fatto che praticamente tutto il libro verta sul disgusto di lei per lui... :/ be', allora Abbot doveva tornare in scena prima, cavolo, così da avere qualcosa di più... palpitante, diciamo. Si poteva giocare mooolto meglio su questo triangolo perverso. La base c'era tutta ▬ anche se, probabilmente, è più interessante Derrik che Abbot, visto i sentimentalismi che mi vomita sul finale così mieloso da farmi venire una carie -_- ma come, un romanzo tostissimo, con fiumi di sangue da tutte le parti, e i due piccioncini mi finiscono come i protagonisti di una favola, con il E vissero per sempre felici e contenti?! Oh mio Dio -_- Ah, le due stelle sono tutte per i fiumi di sangue, se non si fosse capito, e per le citazioni di Shakespeare.
August 21, 2014
Holy mother of books! This is one of those books that you can't get over. The kind of book that has you shaking. My emotions are so scattered right now I can barely write a review. Many times I wait hours to right a review, but I couldn't wait to get my emotions out on this one.
I won't giveaway any plot point on this, because I strongly believe you should read this book. Be warned though, it is not for the faint of heart. If you enjoy a dark read and a plot that throws you twist and turns, you will love this book. POVs change often. You get the main characters and they flow smoothly. I like Lauren's character. I was incredibly awed at her strength. My heart truly broke for Sophie. Abbot... That man, as dark as he is, is my new book boyfriend. Derrick, well, he is the perfect modern day villain. The man all women fear.
Beautifully written. I seriously could not put this book down. The ending was possibly the most emotional part of the entire story for me. I was so invested in these characters that I had a hard time coming back to the here and now. Wonderfully written. I am sure this book will stay with me for a while.
I won't giveaway any plot point on this, because I strongly believe you should read this book. Be warned though, it is not for the faint of heart. If you enjoy a dark read and a plot that throws you twist and turns, you will love this book. POVs change often. You get the main characters and they flow smoothly. I like Lauren's character. I was incredibly awed at her strength. My heart truly broke for Sophie. Abbot... That man, as dark as he is, is my new book boyfriend. Derrick, well, he is the perfect modern day villain. The man all women fear.
Beautifully written. I seriously could not put this book down. The ending was possibly the most emotional part of the entire story for me. I was so invested in these characters that I had a hard time coming back to the here and now. Wonderfully written. I am sure this book will stay with me for a while.
January 12, 2015
This book was really different. It wasn't what I was expecting. It was a lot darker than I thought. I wasn't expecting it, but then again I couldn't put the book down because I had to know what happened to Lauren.
Lauren is in London with her fiancé. He is starting a new project and will be there for a year and wanted Lauren to come with him. Lauren is not sure why she came with him. She isn't sure he is the right man for her. She finally thinks it's time to stand up for herself when she is devastated. Then the unthinkable happens and she is kidnapped. What happens to her?
Abbot is an avenger. He is out to save woman like his sister. He feels guilty and will stop at nothing to keep bad guys off the street. Though people think of him as a monster, but is he really? Will he realize that he can't save everyone? Or will he continue to try?
This book is not for the faint of heart. This book deals with some tough subject matter, but it is something that does happen. It is a must read book! I cannot wait for more books by Lyra!!
Lauren is in London with her fiancé. He is starting a new project and will be there for a year and wanted Lauren to come with him. Lauren is not sure why she came with him. She isn't sure he is the right man for her. She finally thinks it's time to stand up for herself when she is devastated. Then the unthinkable happens and she is kidnapped. What happens to her?
Abbot is an avenger. He is out to save woman like his sister. He feels guilty and will stop at nothing to keep bad guys off the street. Though people think of him as a monster, but is he really? Will he realize that he can't save everyone? Or will he continue to try?
This book is not for the faint of heart. This book deals with some tough subject matter, but it is something that does happen. It is a must read book! I cannot wait for more books by Lyra!!
August 5, 2014
Lyra nailed it once again. A big time.
Absolutely spectacular. Eluded is a powerful read.
If you are looking for a light and sugar sweet story‚ Eluded is definitely not that. It´s intense‚ suspenseful‚ complex‚ gritty‚ dark but not that much‚ angst-ridden‚ dramatic. And it doesn´t make apologies.
Abbot and Lauren story is razor-sharp and raw and hooks you really fast. It involves some very heavy and emotional topics.
I love the idea of the plot and the flow it has. The characters were very well crafted and flawed. And I think that Lyra succeeded in delivering the story completely. For me‚ it was truly excellent.
Get this book, but make sure you have time because once you start it you will not want to put it down!
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>Complimentary copy provided in exchange for an honest review<<<
Absolutely spectacular. Eluded is a powerful read.
If you are looking for a light and sugar sweet story‚ Eluded is definitely not that. It´s intense‚ suspenseful‚ complex‚ gritty‚ dark but not that much‚ angst-ridden‚ dramatic. And it doesn´t make apologies.
Abbot and Lauren story is razor-sharp and raw and hooks you really fast. It involves some very heavy and emotional topics.
I love the idea of the plot and the flow it has. The characters were very well crafted and flawed. And I think that Lyra succeeded in delivering the story completely. For me‚ it was truly excellent.
Get this book, but make sure you have time because once you start it you will not want to put it down!
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>Complimentary copy provided in exchange for an honest review<<<
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews