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Quidell Brothers #1

Thomas's Muse

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Four years ago, for a brief moment in time, Sammie Singleton became the muse of an artist she didn't know. The moment vanished, and now Sammie spends her nights with a different man.

Her life is black and white. But she needs food for her soul to feel alive. She needs color. She needs art.

Everything changes the moment she meets Thomas Quidell. Brilliant and talented, Sammie quickly realizes Tom is her artist—and the man she's been fantasizing about all these years.

Tom offers her more than a lifeline. He opens her eyes to a new life. Vibrant, loving, fulfilling. But is she strong enough to take a chance?

118 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 28, 2013

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About the author

Kris Austen Radcliffe

57 books162 followers

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5 stars
36 (29%)
4 stars
38 (30%)
3 stars
40 (32%)
2 stars
7 (5%)
1 star
3 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Jonel.
1,717 reviews311 followers
January 22, 2018
Radcliffe jumps right into the story, immersing you in the main character’s aura and her life right from the very first sentence. Switching perspectives between the two main characters really gives you an insight into the entirety of this story. Radcliffe switches in such a way that it is easy for the reader to keep up while maintaining a hint of mystery. This story is extremely raw and real. There is also a sense of urgency in the here and now sparked by the fact that this novel spends its entirety firmly locked in the present tense.

This author also doesn’t just describe her scenes, but rather uses colours and textures and senses to allow her audience to feel and see them. As a reader, you don’t feel like a member of the audience, but rather a participant who is actively engaged in this story. This isn’t simply a story, but a work of art, weaving the old with the new in a manner unlike any other.

The female lead in this tale has such a vivid imagination that you can’t help but love her. The way that she lets it run wild just heightens the experience. Seeing as part of the story is written from her perspective you get a really good sense of who she is, rather than who she pretends to be for the outside world. Her journey of self-discovery and self-worth is out there for all of us to see, even if those around her don’t. The male lead is equally well developed, although with a different sense about him. Radcliffe’s style of writing switches right along with the switch in perspectives, differentiating between the personalities of the two main characters.

I also found the supporting cast quite captivating. There are a couple that I can’t wait to get to know better, even if they are quite well put together in this novel. At the same time, there are other supporting characters that I can’t help but hate. They are completely developed as individuals, but as shady ones who don’t deserve the time of day. It adds a balance and sense of realism to this novel.

Overall, this was a brilliant tale, written with the same care and intensity as Radcliffe’s other works. This one may just be my favourite yet, and I can’t wait for more.

Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Katie.
625 reviews166 followers
November 12, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

Even though this is the first book in this series, I actually read it after having read Daniel's Fire(#2). I am very glad I read them in this order.

You got a little glimpse of this couple in the second book but didn't learn very much about them. Reading that book left me intrigued about the characters. I liked that I could then go read their story (even though their relationship started before the events began in book 2). I'm not sure if I would have enjoyed reading this book as much if I had read it as the first book in the series compared to reading it second. Personally, I would advise someone who wants to read this series to begin with Daniel's Fire and then read this book.

Just like Daniel's Fire, this was a very easy book to read. I read the whole thing in one sitting, once I started the book I just kept on reading. I am now looking forward to reading about the third Quidell brother.
Profile Image for Mary.
69 reviews1 follower
August 19, 2014
Potential but...

Potential but...

I actually downloaded this book by accident. I was going through my books to pick the next one and gave this a try. I couldn't tell if it was a romance or just explicit sex. It had potential to be a good book with both romance and sex, instead it was kind of silly and childish.
Sammie is hot mess. She comes across as a strong woman who loves sex one minute and a meek whiney doormat the next.
Thomas is ok, not a very developed character. These two get together with about 80% of the story left. I kept wondering was Rick going to return, some get hit by a car, abducted by aliens?? No, it just a gibberish of I love you and hot turned on the characters are. Nothing for pages. Sammie supposedly has low self esteem. She says things to make us think it, we just never see it other than her words. There is no conflict, no story really. I won't bother with the other brothers, especially since reading a snippet about Dan his story sounded even worse. Don't bother, even if these books are free.
Profile Image for D.
761 reviews
December 5, 2016
This was a quick novella. Although this is the first book in the Quidell Brothers, I actually read it second and loved that I did. I think it fit really well as a #2 book. Especially given it's a novella. The Quidell brothers are definitely book boyfriend worthy and I enjoy how they are all very different from each other.
While I understand that this was a quick and dirty read, I missed some of the romance that I think the characters found themselves in. Yes this was an insta-love story but if done well can be completely believable. Thomas and Samantha's story was a tad rushed but the chemistry between the two of them was definitely there so the insta-love was not the issue. I would have liked to read more of their connection outside of the physical because it was a big part of their connection.
Overall, this was a good instalment for the Quidell Brothers' series. I think the rest of the series would be worth my time to read.
D 3/5
Profile Image for Nickole.
1,535 reviews9 followers
November 6, 2015
wow!!! what a read! supreme hawtness between Tom and Sammie! lots of chemistry, mystery, and fantasy!
Profile Image for Fatmata Sankoh.
1,322 reviews4 followers
October 6, 2018
I don’t know what to say about this read as I wasn’t feeling it at all. The start with Tom and his nephew Bart got me thinking I was in with a good one but then it just went down hill from there. This book was a free download so it pains me to say all this negative stuff but I didn’t get it. There was no connection for me. I know I am reading a fiction but this was way too much. The only bits I loved was Bart with his uncle Tom and that is a shame.
Profile Image for Cynthia.
3,201 reviews102 followers
July 15, 2018
Really Good

This was a great story about a nice guy, Tom, who helped his brother out after he got divorced & him finishing college. He took care of his nephew while he painted. Now he is working a 9-5 job and runs into his college crush. Sammie is not happy with her boyfriend but she is not a cheater and becomes his friend.
Profile Image for Lorraine Anton.
2,982 reviews11 followers
July 18, 2018
Great

Tom and Sammie. Tom made her realize what her life was really like.
He is a painter.
They work together.
They met before.
He proves that she is worth it.
Her ex is a Scum bag.
They are super Hot together. Sex is Hot.
The romance in this book is great.

Profile Image for Krystal.
213 reviews
August 21, 2018
Artfully sexy

Although this is an instant love, it is pretty good. I like that Tom is respectful of Sammie & that they have a past story. It’s a wonderful, artful & sexy story that ends just on a high note.
Profile Image for Dawn Ireland.
Author 97 books71 followers
January 15, 2019
Great story

I was really taken with the authors style of storytelling. I would have given the book 5 stars, but there was one rushed area that should have been developed a little bit better.
267 reviews
June 7, 2017
Wonderful book. Romance at its best. All dreams come true if you believe. Highly recommended read
Profile Image for Melanie.
1,151 reviews3 followers
April 3, 2018
Great start to this series. Love it. Had to read till I was finished
Profile Image for Ciayrra The Scorpion Flower.
318 reviews4 followers
May 7, 2018
This book has some romance, it’s heartwarming. Overall I love how Thomas treats Samantha. He’s very caring and loving.
Profile Image for Kristine.
83 reviews13 followers
June 24, 2015
A beautiful light erotic romance rated at FIVE STARS for completely captivating the reader from start to finish.

Schwartz Synopsis
Samantha’s life is lacking something, and she is not entirely sure what. Until she runs into Thomas that is. As they slowly begin to get to know each other, their histories begin to entwine. Passion runs high but so do their fears. Can they battle their demons to find happiness? Or are they doomed to let their fears rule their lives?

I just met a good guy, a smart, sexy guy, and a gentleman. I live with someone. I sleep in the same bed with another man. And I’m flirting like some horny high schooler? It’s not the first time my libido has gotten me in trouble.

Schwartz Thoughts
I absolutely loved this story. It captured my attention right away and was written so well that it kept me flipping through the pages to reach the end. Such a captivating read.

I always enjoy novels that can play through my emotions. It shows a great writer. This book did not disappoint in that category. It had me laughing, worried, cringing, and satisfied. The romantic build-up is amazing. I really enjoyed the characters, they were developed perfectly and it was very interesting watching Sammie and Tom interact with one another. The small amount of suspense added in just keeps the reader’s attention. Which I found awesome.

I really do not have anything negative to say about this read. It was realistic, and fascinating. A real page-turner! Well done Radcliffe.

Damn it, I think. Why does he have to be so perfect? And then I stop thinking. My impulses take over.

Recommendation
Who wouldn’t I recommend this book to? It is such a great read. Perfect for anyone looking for a romance novel. This book is labeled as an erotic romance, but the intimate scenes are written so well that even if you prefer pure romance novels you would still enjoy this novel. Of course, if you are looking for erotic romance then you would also enjoy this novel. Try it, it will not disappoint.

Profile Image for Author & Reader Con ..
5 reviews58 followers
November 27, 2013
Kris Austen Radcliffe gave me a peek through the looking glass of what it would be like to live with a male model. Sadly but truly she imploded my dreams of having my own man candy, now I don’t really want one LOL. I can so see a male model behaving like Rick did and I would probably start lopping things off of him but hey that is just me.
Enter Thomas, OMG I am in love with him! He is hot and has a great body but mostly he is thoughtful and a gentleman in every way. He is so great with his nephew Bart and hey, handsome cat (Kris knows who I speak of) loves him too. Once you read the book, you will find out about the great smoldering love affair that has been steaming under the surface and they didn’t even realize it! I love that about this novel.
Sammie is a bit messed up or broken however you view it. She is living with Rick but neither of them are in love, it is more of a convenience and easy hot sweaty sex thing than anything else. Rick treats Sammie like he can control her and dictate their sexual experiences, it is ALL about him. Sammie just doesn’t believe there is anything out there for her and doesn’t want to be alone and so she stays.
I won’t breakout to much of the story because then I would ruin it for you. But believe me; Kris Austen Radcliffe is broken into a new contemporary romance series with a great first book.
Yes each chapter switches perspective, but they are “Labeled”… pay attention and you will love it. I love see the situation for each person’s point of view. Thomas’s thoughts made my grin like an idiot through the entirety of the book
I adore Bart the little nephew, he is sweet and amazing. He won my heart.
Profile Image for Jasmyn.
1,605 reviews19 followers
January 16, 2014
Sammie and Thomas have a connection that goes back years - they just don't realize it yet. Sammie is involved in a relationship that just isn't good for her - he is cold, distant, and lacks the essential colors in life that Sammie craves. Thomas is just what she is looking for - caring, intelligent, and sexy. Thomas is one of the better men I've read about in a romance. He wants to help Sammie find what she is looking for in life, and he hopes it might be him. Sammie is a little damaged emotionally and doesn't think she is good enough for anyone, but Thomas knows otherwise. When her relationship blows up (in a bad way) he is there for her. He's such a sweet and amazing guy.

There were a few problems I had with the storyline. Thomas mentions several times that he wants to take it slow, but she is living with him quite soon after they meet. Yes, they are sleeping in different beds at first, but that is not what I consider taking it slow. Their relationship also kicks off before she ends her current one - who is a complete ass, but you should still end one before starting another. If this little thing had been changed, this would have gotten 4 stars instead of 3. The action in this book is incredible. The intimate scenes are very detailed and hot - so expect to get a little flustered.

The story is filled with art and color. Because of this, many of the scenes are very descriptive and vivid, they are full of life. It was great to be able to imagine things in such clarity because of the writing. This series has a very strong start and at the end there is a small glimpse of who might be starring in book two.
Profile Image for Lissette.
Author 27 books104 followers
January 17, 2014
Sammie Singleton's life is so routine. She's tired of doing the same thing every day. Tired of coming home to a man who doesn't seem to really appreciate her. She desires something better. Something that will make her feel more alive. It's the only way she'll be able to make sense of the sanity that remains.

Immersing herself in her job, Sammie's life soon takes a different turn. She comes across Thomas, a man who resembles the one she sees every day in her vivid fantasies. Part of her can't believe that she's found him. He's everything she could ever wants in man, and stirs her senses in every way possible. Could it be that she's finally found the one thing she's been looking for?

Allowing herself to hope, Sammie dive head-first into an unexpected relationship with Thomas himself. For her, it doesn't matter that she belongs to someone else. Her heart has found it's calling, and she'll do everything to keep what she's now found. Determined to change her very existence, she does her best to undo the ties that bind her to someone else. It's the only way she'll be able to keep the happiness that's just out of her grasp.

A bittersweet love story, Thomas' Muse is one that will definitely tug at your heartstrings. We meet two star-crossed lovers, intent on bridging the distance between them. I think Kris has started a series that will definitely incite the reader's senses, and make them yearn for more of these lovely characters. I look forward to what comes next for the Quidell Brothers.
Profile Image for Roxanne Kade.
Author 2 books68 followers
January 23, 2014
This was a fantastic short read that was chock-full of everything that makes a perfect romance story. It had plenty of passion, sensual and sexy loves scenes that will make you melt, sweet romance and friendship, and the importance of self-worth and self-acceptance.

Although Sammie and Tom’s romance ignited into a steamy affair within a short period of time, it was fuelled by a longing that was four years in the making; so the instant attraction was more believable, especially after they both realized they shared a moment years before.

But, romance aside, I loved the message this story held. Sammie had objectified herself for so many years. She’d allowed herself to be used and abused because she believed it was what she deserved. She believed she was happy because that was who she was. It was only when Tom opened her eyes and lifted the mask she wore that Sammie was able to see the difference. It was only then that she discovered she was worth so much more than she was giving, and deserved so much more than she was given. She was finally able to accept herself.

A true gem.
Profile Image for Bonnie Rediske- .
311 reviews9 followers
April 22, 2014
I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sammie Singleton is a girl caught in a relationship where she feels that something is missing. She has moments of fantasy in order to survive. Thomas Quidell is a man that has been helping his brother after the brother suffered a broken heart. He is also just surviving, as it is pretty hard to have a relationship when he is around his nephew all the time.
What I really enjoyed about this book was the "one that got away" theme of it all. It is not often that there is a moment that both parties really reflect on as a missed opportunity. I loved how the relationship played out in this book and the idea of second chances. The book had some great steamy moments, some frustrating ones, and some that were very hard on the heart.
I had a difficult time with the excess inner dialogue of Thomas. He sure is a Chatty Cathy. I wondered why the inner dialogue just did not seem balanced between Sammie and Tom. I feel like this book might have been better if it was a short vs full length and some of that excess deleted. I give this book four fangs as it was enjoyable, just did not leave me breathless.
Profile Image for EndlessReading.
519 reviews34 followers
April 26, 2014
Firstly I would like to thank the author for kindly providing me with a copy of this book to read and review.

This will be my first time her work, and I found myself wanting more.

This was a short read for me, but it wasn't dull for a moment.

Switching perspectives between the two main characters is always a bonus, I love it when author's right in alternate POV's, gives us the reader a better understanding...

This book is hot, hot, hot.

Thomas is an artist and unbeknown to him the day he meets Sammie, he's only gone and found his muse again, these two likeable characters had met four years previous.

They had denied their feelings and attraction to one another then, but can they keep dodging fate?

Sammie is stuck in a rut of a relationship, looking for a form of a loop hole where she can leave Rick's sorry excuse of a boyfriend and when she bumps (and I mean literally) into Tom, her world take a turn for the better.

A good story, and I'll be sure to read more of the Quidell brothers....
Profile Image for Nicole.
537 reviews
June 15, 2016
This was a nice introduction to Kris Austen Radcliffes Quidell brothers series.

We follow Thomas Quidell and his love interest Samantha as they discover, or rather re-discover, each other and grow together as they overcome some personal issues.

There was no major drama or plot twist to this story. It's more of a self discovery, change of attitude kind of story.

I liked the fact that circumstances brought these two characters together long after they first had a moment that even though it didn't amount to anything then, or even seem significant, but played a huge role in their relationship afterwards.

It's a cute story of two people that need to work out their individual issues and grow as individuals before they realise how good they are together and deserve more out of life then what they were getting.

Great intro and can't wait to meet the other Quidell's.

I was gifted a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Johanna Sawyer.
3,479 reviews42 followers
September 3, 2016
Thanks for a free book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This read was really easy to get though, and a nice idea. I felt though that this book could have been fleshed out a little better, and I think Rick deserved more than such a short scene. The characters were built up to that climax and I was a bit deflated when that was all. If your in for a quick read though, this book may be for you. Overall entertainment was lowered by the climax to three stars.
PS....I'm not sure why I'm adding this but for the first chapter I thought this was a M/M book. It's not. I guess Sammie's sex didn't really stand out until she tottered on her three inch heels. Of course once it became clear it was a girl I laughed my ass off. I really don't know why I'm adding this, maybe someone else will understand.
Profile Image for Josette Reuel.
Author 111 books381 followers
October 14, 2014
There are times when you just need a sexy short read to lift your spirits and Thomas's Muse is one such story. I really enjoyed this "short novel" as Kris calls it. The characters caught my attention and held my interest. This is an Erotic Romance, so you will find lots of hot and intimate interactions.

As an artist that had to cave to the pressures of real life, I could totally relate to Thomas.

The series has two more books released for each of Thomas's brothers and I just found out that each brother's story will continue in a second book for each of them. Thanks Kris for sharing these awesome brother's with us.
Profile Image for Rhonda Farrell.
74 reviews22 followers
January 28, 2014
Good romance! A racy, sexy fun book to spend a few hours with. The story of Samantha and Thomas develops nicely and to see their fantasy life turn into reality as they each escape from a life that they are not totally happy with. I loved how Samantha's fantasy lover from the past shows up again in her life. Can they finally become more than something dreams are made of? To read both views "from the heart " as the story unfolds and the relationships progress makes this a unique enjoyable plot.
Profile Image for Ruthie Taylor.
3,724 reviews39 followers
March 30, 2014
A never forgotten sighting four years ago gives rise to an unexpected but much desired romance. This story is well written and flows seamlessly between the two main characters' thoughts and feelings. It is a lovely read, and I shall be looking out for Dan's story with great interest.

Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Kami.
Author 2 books74 followers
December 1, 2013
Samantha and Thomas are both unhappy with their lives. Thomas is an artist. They meet but then they discover that they have met before. This book is hot, hot, hot. Very racy and steamy but really romantic too. The pacing and writing is really good. I liked both characters. A very enjoyable, sexy read. 5 stars.
Profile Image for Frances Shellings.
169 reviews
April 27, 2016
Hot hot hot!!!! This story had me holding my breath with each page turn! Can on glance stay with you? Can one glance fuel your soul? And what if one day you meet again? Turn the page and begin Thomas's Muse you won't regret it! Can't wait to read the next book!
Profile Image for Cheryl Viner.
154 reviews1 follower
January 29, 2017
I liked the story. I was like a fairy tale of old. A handsome prince rescuing a damsel in distress scenario set in modern times. It was a bit unrealistic though, no woman with an abusive past would just go from one man to another.
Profile Image for Kristy Odom.
1,567 reviews40 followers
August 14, 2015
Loved it!

I absolutely loved this entire series of books. I laughed and cried with each one! Truly found another author I absolutely have to read! You will not be disappointed!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews