What do you think?
Rate this book
Beautiful Burn
I've broken him, bent him, and burned him, and each fevered moment was worth every ounce of pain.
Auburn Lawrence has loved her English teacher, Reed West, since she was sixteen. Through brainstorming stories, reading classic literature, and plenty of fiery banter, they've forged a bond that neither of them expected.
Propelled by a chance encounter after her graduation, they discover just how deep their connection runs, but love requires more than chemistry to flourish. They spend three electrifying summer months discovering each other under a veil of forbidden passion and desperate lust before they learn that the unattainable is often destined to remain exactly that.
By the time temperatures dip and snowflakes fly, their relationship will face a deep freeze that threatens to snap the bond they thought they shared, shattering their lives one secret at a time.
Intended for mature audiences.
Beautiful Burn is a 50,000 word, standalone novel.
Auburn Lawrence has loved her English teacher, Reed West, since she was sixteen. Through brainstorming stories, reading classic literature, and plenty of fiery banter, they've forged a bond that neither of them expected.
Propelled by a chance encounter after her graduation, they discover just how deep their connection runs, but love requires more than chemistry to flourish. They spend three electrifying summer months discovering each other under a veil of forbidden passion and desperate lust before they learn that the unattainable is often destined to remain exactly that.
By the time temperatures dip and snowflakes fly, their relationship will face a deep freeze that threatens to snap the bond they thought they shared, shattering their lives one secret at a time.
Intended for mature audiences.
Beautiful Burn is a 50,000 word, standalone novel.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2015
41 people are currently reading
3980 people want to read
About the author
Adriane Leigh
58 books2,738 followersis a USA Today bestselling author of multiple novels and novellas. With appearances in publications such as Vogue Magazine and The Montreal Gazette, the award-winning author, in addition to writing, founded RARE: Romance Author & Reader Events, a community of internationally-renowned book conventions that draw thousands of readers and #1 bestselling authors to events around the world each year.
She hosts a podcast, The Rebel Artist, and her books are translated into French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese.
She lives on Lake Michigan with her family.
She hosts a podcast, The Rebel Artist, and her books are translated into French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese.
She lives on Lake Michigan with her family.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 252 reviews
Read
August 15, 2017
Beautiful Burn (stand-alone). High school teacher Reed West’s unpredictable story starting with the summer his former student comes back to town!
Beautiful Burn (stand-alone) is more a life story than a romance. Please be aware it does not have a traditional HEA. Some might call it a happy ending…. I’d say the best ending possible under the circumstances.
This is high school English teacher Reed West, Mr. West’s story in every sense, and even more so as story progresses. At first glance it might come across as a teacher-student romance, but there really isn’t that much of a conflict.
Beautiful Burn starts off with Reed West arriving at his summer writing class to meet his students. Three years after graduating high school student Auburn Lawrence is back in town for the summer. They formed a special bond while he was her teacher, much to do with their shared love for writing, but also had a secret crush which was never acted on. Seeing each other again old feelings re-surface with promise of more.
Reed is separated now, but not yet divorced. Story goes on to follow Reed and Auburn in their budding romance for those summer months and beyond. But Reed has a difficult ex-wife, fears of gossip in his small town and concerns with the perception of a teacher-student relationship even though technically Auburn is no longer his student.
They have much to overcome and will have to dig deep. Their connection is undeniable and the bond they form special. But once Reed opens up more their relationship shifts on many levels yet nothing could have prepared them for unpredictability of life and the mitigating blessings one might find,
Due to him holding back I was never able to connect fully with Reed West, Mr. West. Seven words to describe Reed: Secretive, reflective, private, closed-off, noble, meek and a procrastinator.
Seven words to describe Auburn Lawrence: Flirty, easy-going, loving, smart, focused, forward-thinking and loyal.
Beautiful Burn, as mentioned, does not have a traditional HEA and anyone who knows me know I need my HEA. Since my overall rating would be colored too much by need for a different ending I have elected not to rate story. For most of story if felt like it could be a 4 star...
Beautiful Burn is a wonderfully told tale of love, life, lust, risks, set-backs, secrets, but mostly it’s about finding the beautiful in the little things and hope and strength in the darkest of hours. I say read it if/when you are in the mood to feel!
BETA copy provided to me by author Adriane Leigh, in exchange for an honest review.
Read
September 21, 2017
Adirane Leigh is such a talented author. I’ve loved all the books of hers I’ve read. I can’t tell you how excited I was to read a taboo student/teacher romance. I’ve been on pins and needles to get this one in my hands. This book... it was not what I expected. Not at all. And I have no clue after several days how I feel about the book or the ending. Honestly, I don’t feel like this is one of those books that would be fair for me to rate. And it’s not because I hated the book or the story, it’s just that my thoughts and emotions are all over the place, I would feel like any number I could give would be much too low in some areas, and too high in others. There were things I really loved about this book, and other things that just didn’t work for me personally.
I feel like this is a book that many readers will love. Other people, it might not won’t work for. I think it’s one that you’ll have to read for yourself and decide.
It’s a book that’s been on my mind for days, I think that says something. I commend Adriane for going there. For writing something that I’m sure was insanely difficult to write. I absolutely love her writing and will pick up any of her future works.
did-not-finish
January 18, 2015DNF @ 21%
This was what I was NOT expecting at all. I'm not even sure if I'm shocked that this read stumped me in more ways than one or how I called it quits this early.
This is my first read from this author and I went in with close to zero expectations, so to say that I'm disappointed with this is not even close to what I'm really feeling right now. The blurb and the forbidden student-teacher trope sold me but in the first 20% itself, I already made a mental list of how this read absolutely didn't work for me.
- It felt like the story was birthed out of nowhere. More precisely, a rushed birth. The beginning didn't feel like a beginning; it felt like there should've been a prologue book before this one. It started with Reed (the teacher) meeting his student, Auburn again in his class. They apparently had a history before this as a student-teacher but it was not explained on. I felt like I was being thrown into a story without a proper background story.
- Being told from the guy's POV, all I got from the get-go was him lusting her and how he couldn't stop thinking about his student, Auburn. Again, why? No explanation from the past & all I can deduce so far is his infatuation for his student for no solid reason. What's so great about her? I simply can't tell at all.
- By the end of Chapter 3, I totally lost my shit with this read. And why you ask? READ AT YOUR RISK!
At this mark, I cussed out loud at how unbelievable this read was already without passing through 20% and added on with my profusely eye-rolling, I was ready to call it off.
But I told myself I wasn't a quitter....not yet.
So I read another half of a chapter and next thing I know, .
Cue yet another cuss out loud from me, I officially called it quits.
The writing style was choppy and the relationship felt superficial, there just wasn't enough depth to the story for me. Also it didn't feel anything like a forbidden romance, just more like a whole lot of lust that sparked out from nowhere.
I don't usually rate a DNF read but just from 20% alone, I would have given it 2 stars. And after a good reading buddy who spoiled me with the apparently shocking ending, all I can say is thank lawd I'm stopping now or I will be slapping a 1 star rating.
Sorry ladies, perhaps this is a case of personal preference but with only having almost an hour a day of reading for me these days, I definitely have to cut my losses early. However, please don't let it deter you from trying this one :)
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This was what I was NOT expecting at all. I'm not even sure if I'm shocked that this read stumped me in more ways than one or how I called it quits this early.
This is my first read from this author and I went in with close to zero expectations, so to say that I'm disappointed with this is not even close to what I'm really feeling right now. The blurb and the forbidden student-teacher trope sold me but in the first 20% itself, I already made a mental list of how this read absolutely didn't work for me.
- It felt like the story was birthed out of nowhere. More precisely, a rushed birth. The beginning didn't feel like a beginning; it felt like there should've been a prologue book before this one. It started with Reed (the teacher) meeting his student, Auburn again in his class. They apparently had a history before this as a student-teacher but it was not explained on. I felt like I was being thrown into a story without a proper background story.
- Being told from the guy's POV, all I got from the get-go was him lusting her and how he couldn't stop thinking about his student, Auburn. Again, why? No explanation from the past & all I can deduce so far is his infatuation for his student for no solid reason. What's so great about her? I simply can't tell at all.
- By the end of Chapter 3, I totally lost my shit with this read. And why you ask? READ AT YOUR RISK!
At this mark, I cussed out loud at how unbelievable this read was already without passing through 20% and added on with my profusely eye-rolling, I was ready to call it off.
But I told myself I wasn't a quitter....not yet.
So I read another half of a chapter and next thing I know, .
Cue yet another cuss out loud from me, I officially called it quits.
The writing style was choppy and the relationship felt superficial, there just wasn't enough depth to the story for me. Also it didn't feel anything like a forbidden romance, just more like a whole lot of lust that sparked out from nowhere.
I don't usually rate a DNF read but just from 20% alone, I would have given it 2 stars. And after a good reading buddy who spoiled me with the apparently shocking ending, all I can say is thank lawd I'm stopping now or I will be slapping a 1 star rating.
Sorry ladies, perhaps this is a case of personal preference but with only having almost an hour a day of reading for me these days, I definitely have to cut my losses early. However, please don't let it deter you from trying this one :)
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 14, 2015
☆ I received an ARC via LBTS PR in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ☆
3.5-75 stars!!
Beautiful Burn was an alright read. You read it from Reed’s, “the teacher,” POV and you see their relationship unfold from their very first meeting from there on out.
Their romance isn’t your typical one, yet it isn’t one without its obstacles. You see, aside from the obvious hindrances that come with a student-teacher love match, you have Reed’s estranged wife in the background and man is she both delusional and a train wreck waiting to happen!
So, where does that leave Reed and Auburn?
In one hot fugly mess.
I mean, plot devices aside, their chemistry was one that was a push and pull of good and bad. While they give each other a sense of place and stability amongst their demons, they also give off a sense of uncertainty and bewilderment.
So, my over all thoughts regarding the characters and their story?
So once again, I will state, this was an “alright” read. I liked it but I also felt that some of what took place was a little forced or typical from the other taboo romances that I’ve read within this genre. Then again, who am I to berate what's meant to be, right?
I did find highlights of tenderness, heartache, and intrigue that kept me reading from start to finish. But as a whole, it was a mixture of mostly good with some clichéd nuances.
All in all, a book I would recommend to lovers of Adriane Leigh and those who dig reads that go against the grain of salt!!
#Great job, Ariane!!
3.5-75 stars!!
Beautiful Burn was an alright read. You read it from Reed’s, “the teacher,” POV and you see their relationship unfold from their very first meeting from there on out.
Their romance isn’t your typical one, yet it isn’t one without its obstacles. You see, aside from the obvious hindrances that come with a student-teacher love match, you have Reed’s estranged wife in the background and man is she both delusional and a train wreck waiting to happen!
So, where does that leave Reed and Auburn?
In one hot fugly mess.
I mean, plot devices aside, their chemistry was one that was a push and pull of good and bad. While they give each other a sense of place and stability amongst their demons, they also give off a sense of uncertainty and bewilderment.
So, my over all thoughts regarding the characters and their story?
So once again, I will state, this was an “alright” read. I liked it but I also felt that some of what took place was a little forced or typical from the other taboo romances that I’ve read within this genre. Then again, who am I to berate what's meant to be, right?
I did find highlights of tenderness, heartache, and intrigue that kept me reading from start to finish. But as a whole, it was a mixture of mostly good with some clichéd nuances.
All in all, a book I would recommend to lovers of Adriane Leigh and those who dig reads that go against the grain of salt!!
#Great job, Ariane!!
January 15, 2015
Unfortunately this book was not for me. As I know I will end up ranting my head off if I write a long review, I will keep this one short and sweet. While I read this book, it was very obvious the entire book was rushed. There were inconsistent characterizations, the transitions were choppy, and the flow of the story was bumpy all around. The ending of the book...what was the point of that ending again? One of the most sudden twists I've ever read that could've been completely omitted from the story, then again if it was, there'd be nothing exciting about the story left.
Maybe it's another case of 'it's not you, it's me' so don't let my negative opinion sway you from checking this one out if you're interested.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Maybe it's another case of 'it's not you, it's me' so don't let my negative opinion sway you from checking this one out if you're interested.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2015
✩★✩★ Now FREE in Kindle Unlimited! ✩★✩★
Beautiful Burn is live!!!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1svAp3d
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1E85VWu
Amazon AU: http://bit.ly/1C8x50b
iBooks: http://bit.ly/1wh2eHO
Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/14ykJAZ
Beautiful Burn is live!!!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1svAp3d
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1E85VWu
Amazon AU: http://bit.ly/1C8x50b
iBooks: http://bit.ly/1wh2eHO
Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/14ykJAZ
Want to read
January 18, 2015This one was not for me, so I stopping and not rating it. I was under the impression it was a different type of book and do not feel it is fair to rate this book as I didn't finish it.
I didn't enjoy the part I did read as following the story was difficult.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Student/Teacher romance...
love these stories!!
I didn't enjoy the part I did read as following the story was difficult.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Student/Teacher romance...
love these stories!!
January 23, 2015
3.5 "I Can't Get Enough Of You" Stars!
(Gifted by author)
Reed West is now a 28 yr. old gorgeous high school English teacher living in a small town in Michigan called Sutton's Bay. His life has been complicated lately, but things get even more confusing for him when he enters his classroom for a summer writing course he's teaching & sees a student of his from three years ago he's never been able to forget. Auburn Lawrence was his student his first year of teaching. They had a strong connection from the moment they met, & could talk for hours. They developed a close friendship, and even though they had insane chemistry, they never crossed the line or were inappropriate.
-"Imagine wanting something so badly, you're consumed with yearning, seeing something every single day, knowing you can never do more than look."
-If Auburn was in the room, my body had a burning desire to touch, feel, connect.
-The earth had slammed to a halt when our eyes connected.
-It felt like my heart galloped at triple speed when she laughed. It felt like the soul-shattering awareness that comes when your soul connects with it's match.
That pull they always felt toward each other was still strong as ever. Now that Auburn was in college, Reed felt maybe she wasn't as forbidden to him. Auburn also felt maybe it was finally their time to be together. They flirt, and that quickly progresses to more. They both are desperate to have each other, and start secretly sneaking around to be together.
-Didn't know if I'd ever see you again.
-Coming back this summer, having you suddenly thrown back in my life.
-"It feels like our timing is finally right."
-Seeing you again ignited the feelings in my soul, right or wrong.
Things aren't easy for Reed & Auburn, & they have a tough time staying together. Their feelings continue to grow, & even though they have a bit of an age difference they still have a lot in common & enjoy the same things. I had a lot of mixed feelings about this couple. I thought Reed was yummy & was rooting for them to be together, but at times I had trouble feeling their connection, & then at other times I felt their love for each other. I think the book wasn't really what I was expecting, but I'm still a huge fan of this author!
-I came alive when I was with her. She made me feel, and for so long I'd forgotten what feeling felt like.
-Given the right place and the right time, Auburn and I, I fully believed, were destined to happen.
(Gifted by author)
Reed West is now a 28 yr. old gorgeous high school English teacher living in a small town in Michigan called Sutton's Bay. His life has been complicated lately, but things get even more confusing for him when he enters his classroom for a summer writing course he's teaching & sees a student of his from three years ago he's never been able to forget. Auburn Lawrence was his student his first year of teaching. They had a strong connection from the moment they met, & could talk for hours. They developed a close friendship, and even though they had insane chemistry, they never crossed the line or were inappropriate.
-"Imagine wanting something so badly, you're consumed with yearning, seeing something every single day, knowing you can never do more than look."
-If Auburn was in the room, my body had a burning desire to touch, feel, connect.
-The earth had slammed to a halt when our eyes connected.
-It felt like my heart galloped at triple speed when she laughed. It felt like the soul-shattering awareness that comes when your soul connects with it's match.
That pull they always felt toward each other was still strong as ever. Now that Auburn was in college, Reed felt maybe she wasn't as forbidden to him. Auburn also felt maybe it was finally their time to be together. They flirt, and that quickly progresses to more. They both are desperate to have each other, and start secretly sneaking around to be together.
-Didn't know if I'd ever see you again.
-Coming back this summer, having you suddenly thrown back in my life.
-"It feels like our timing is finally right."
-Seeing you again ignited the feelings in my soul, right or wrong.
Things aren't easy for Reed & Auburn, & they have a tough time staying together. Their feelings continue to grow, & even though they have a bit of an age difference they still have a lot in common & enjoy the same things. I had a lot of mixed feelings about this couple. I thought Reed was yummy & was rooting for them to be together, but at times I had trouble feeling their connection, & then at other times I felt their love for each other. I think the book wasn't really what I was expecting, but I'm still a huge fan of this author!
-I came alive when I was with her. She made me feel, and for so long I'd forgotten what feeling felt like.
-Given the right place and the right time, Auburn and I, I fully believed, were destined to happen.
January 23, 2015
***CAUTION: Spoilerish review ahead***
♥♥♥ 2.5 STARS ♥♥♥
How to start this one? I really do hate writing bad reviews and don't really feel like having a rant. So, to begin I will say that I was super excited to read this book.
When I read the blurb, I was eager to dive in since I am one of those people who highly enjoy student-teacher romance books, because I'm a perv like that. However, I did not expect to not get that student-teacher romance that I was hoping for. That story had already happened before this book began. So, what we have here, is two characters named Auburn and Reed, who rekindle their relationship years after their affair ended. So there was no tension or excitement of being found out because Reed is no longer Auburn's teacher.
I would have enjoyed this story regardless of that, but the whole story seemed very rushed to me. Time passed by quickly and the flow of the book was slightly disjointed. I needed more of a connection between the characters. Because their story began before this book began, I was unable to see their relationship develop or watch the characters develop. I had problems with the main character Reed, I didn't know how to feel about him, and it didn't help that he came off as a bit of a stalker at times. Auburn was an okay character. As the book progressed, though, Auburn seemed to change a bit kind of out of no where. Near the end there was a twist in the book that I didn't see coming and didn't even know why it was put in this story. The ending had a bit of an unconventional HEA, but I actually did like it because it somehow worked with what happened in the ending.
This book had so much potential, unfortunately it was not for me and that really saddens me. It could be that it was just me who didn't enjoy it because I know there are others who have. So who knows, you might enjoy this one more than I did if you give it a try.
~ARC gifted to Kris & Vik Book Therapy Cafe in exchange for an honest review.~
♥♥♥ 2.5 STARS ♥♥♥
How to start this one? I really do hate writing bad reviews and don't really feel like having a rant. So, to begin I will say that I was super excited to read this book.
When I read the blurb, I was eager to dive in since I am one of those people who highly enjoy student-teacher romance books, because I'm a perv like that. However, I did not expect to not get that student-teacher romance that I was hoping for. That story had already happened before this book began. So, what we have here, is two characters named Auburn and Reed, who rekindle their relationship years after their affair ended. So there was no tension or excitement of being found out because Reed is no longer Auburn's teacher.
I would have enjoyed this story regardless of that, but the whole story seemed very rushed to me. Time passed by quickly and the flow of the book was slightly disjointed. I needed more of a connection between the characters. Because their story began before this book began, I was unable to see their relationship develop or watch the characters develop. I had problems with the main character Reed, I didn't know how to feel about him, and it didn't help that he came off as a bit of a stalker at times. Auburn was an okay character. As the book progressed, though, Auburn seemed to change a bit kind of out of no where. Near the end there was a twist in the book that I didn't see coming and didn't even know why it was put in this story. The ending had a bit of an unconventional HEA, but I actually did like it because it somehow worked with what happened in the ending.
This book had so much potential, unfortunately it was not for me and that really saddens me. It could be that it was just me who didn't enjoy it because I know there are others who have. So who knows, you might enjoy this one more than I did if you give it a try.
~ARC gifted to Kris & Vik Book Therapy Cafe in exchange for an honest review.~
January 14, 2015
WHOA. I don't know what to say. I don't know how to even feel. This was HEART WRENCHING. I UGLY CRIED! There are so many feeeellllssss! So many! If you are a lover of angst, of pure, raw, unequivocal emotion then you will LOVE this book like I did. It hurts. It makes you feel as though you are BLEEDING from the inside out, but there is a beautiful message behind it. Wow... I don't know, I really enjoyed it. It broke me and I won't forget it anytime soon.
January 16, 2015
I've read some great teacher/student stories, but this wasn't one of them...
I have adored Adriane's books previously..her Morning series rated a 5 star for me.
Fundamentally, it's about the connection, the flow of the story, the word play..this just didn't work for me. Hope it does for you.. :-/
I have adored Adriane's books previously..her Morning series rated a 5 star for me.
Fundamentally, it's about the connection, the flow of the story, the word play..this just didn't work for me. Hope it does for you.. :-/
January 15, 2015
4 stars
This book was so unexpected. It was hot and sexy at times, and then emotional and heartbreaking the next. I absolutely believed in the couple's relationship and was so glad to read about their journey. My one complaint is that I would have liked it to be longer! Some of the parts were rushed, and I would have liked them to be fleshed out a bit more. But other than that, such a good read.
This book was so unexpected. It was hot and sexy at times, and then emotional and heartbreaking the next. I absolutely believed in the couple's relationship and was so glad to read about their journey. My one complaint is that I would have liked it to be longer! Some of the parts were rushed, and I would have liked them to be fleshed out a bit more. But other than that, such a good read.
Want to read
January 14, 2015Got this, just finished a student/teacher .... but this sounds real good and I'm a sucker for these kinda books :)
Want to read
January 10, 2015Teacher-student romance? Ah, I'm so weak.
Plus the blurb sounds so poetic and that cover is amazing!!
Plus the blurb sounds so poetic and that cover is amazing!!
January 19, 2015
Review: Surj Harvey
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHopelessR...
TSU: https://www.tsu.co/HopelessRomantics
Blog: http://thehopelessromanticsbookblog.b...
I'm a huge fan of Adriane Leigh's work.. whether it be her new adult books or the erotic fiction she writes, she's an automatic one click for me. However, it kills me to say that "Beautiful Burn" left me really conflicted. In fact if I could sum up in one phrase my thoughts on Auburn and Reed's story, I would say I wanted more.... so much more... more pages, more words, more feels, more emotions, more of Auburn's POV ... and the list goes on. That's not to say this was a bad book, not at all. I mean the premise of the story line was brilliant .. who does't like a forbidden teacher/ student romance right? And with a synopsis like that, it was difficult not to be drawn in. Plus, Adriane Leigh knows how to write a bloody good sex scene and this book was filled with all kinds of toe curling hotness. Reed and Auburn really did like to go at it and in the best possible way. Add to that, a filthy mouth and I was in book sex heaven. Plus, that ending... I did manage to work out something wasn't quite right from the clues littered amongst the chapters but that.. nope, never in a million years. Holy crap... a gutsy move if ever I saw one.
So what didn't work quite so well for me? OK, this was a really quick read (as in less than three hours from start to finish) and I personally feel that the book would have really benefited from being longer. In fact, parts of the story unravelled so quickly that I had to re-read just to make sure I completely got what was happening. I needed more meat on the bone, more depth to the plot and the characters. There were scenes I wanted to savour, to drown in but blink and the story had moved on. I really wanted to connect to the characters, get to know them on a personal level, get an understanding of how they felt, the emotions coursing through them as certain scenes unfolded but for me, that connection lacked because of how quickly everything evolved. I wanted nervous anticipation... you know where your heart beats so hard, you think it might jump out of your chest, where you're sat on the edge of your seat because you have no idea what's going to happen next... I needed that but more often than not, it never came which left me gutted.
As much as Reed and Auburn's journey wasn't as straight forward one, I was't sure that it should have been as forbidden as it was. After all, Auburn was 21 and at a different college. She was only attending a summer writing class which had people of all ages present. This wasn't a literal teacher/ student romance... not the way I saw it anyway which meant I didn't always buy into the whole secrecy thing. I also didn't like the way Reed kept going on about his job if they got caught... what about Auburn's reputation? I wanted him to put her first and protect her more, after all, this was the women who had made such a massive impact on his life.
These points are definitely a personal thing because having spoken to friends who read "Beautiful Burn," they absolutely loved it. I honestly cannot wait to see what Adriane Leigh brings out next because as much as this didn't work massively well for me, I know whatever this author has up her sleeve for her next release will more than likely blow my mind.
I rated "Beautiful burn" ❤️❤️❤️.5
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHopelessR...
TSU: https://www.tsu.co/HopelessRomantics
Blog: http://thehopelessromanticsbookblog.b...
I'm a huge fan of Adriane Leigh's work.. whether it be her new adult books or the erotic fiction she writes, she's an automatic one click for me. However, it kills me to say that "Beautiful Burn" left me really conflicted. In fact if I could sum up in one phrase my thoughts on Auburn and Reed's story, I would say I wanted more.... so much more... more pages, more words, more feels, more emotions, more of Auburn's POV ... and the list goes on. That's not to say this was a bad book, not at all. I mean the premise of the story line was brilliant .. who does't like a forbidden teacher/ student romance right? And with a synopsis like that, it was difficult not to be drawn in. Plus, Adriane Leigh knows how to write a bloody good sex scene and this book was filled with all kinds of toe curling hotness. Reed and Auburn really did like to go at it and in the best possible way. Add to that, a filthy mouth and I was in book sex heaven. Plus, that ending... I did manage to work out something wasn't quite right from the clues littered amongst the chapters but that.. nope, never in a million years. Holy crap... a gutsy move if ever I saw one.
I've learned that love lies. I've learned that love breaks us. I've learned that love is a beautiful burn in a quiet corner of the heart that won't be ignored.
So what didn't work quite so well for me? OK, this was a really quick read (as in less than three hours from start to finish) and I personally feel that the book would have really benefited from being longer. In fact, parts of the story unravelled so quickly that I had to re-read just to make sure I completely got what was happening. I needed more meat on the bone, more depth to the plot and the characters. There were scenes I wanted to savour, to drown in but blink and the story had moved on. I really wanted to connect to the characters, get to know them on a personal level, get an understanding of how they felt, the emotions coursing through them as certain scenes unfolded but for me, that connection lacked because of how quickly everything evolved. I wanted nervous anticipation... you know where your heart beats so hard, you think it might jump out of your chest, where you're sat on the edge of your seat because you have no idea what's going to happen next... I needed that but more often than not, it never came which left me gutted.
She was forbidden and dangerous- we were playing with fire and would no doubt get burned, but I couldn't bring myself to leave.
As much as Reed and Auburn's journey wasn't as straight forward one, I was't sure that it should have been as forbidden as it was. After all, Auburn was 21 and at a different college. She was only attending a summer writing class which had people of all ages present. This wasn't a literal teacher/ student romance... not the way I saw it anyway which meant I didn't always buy into the whole secrecy thing. I also didn't like the way Reed kept going on about his job if they got caught... what about Auburn's reputation? I wanted him to put her first and protect her more, after all, this was the women who had made such a massive impact on his life.
And even in those moments, when I felt at complete peace, there was a sense of impending doom. the balloon would surely pop and I was terrified of the aftermath. I only hoped these moments with her would make the risk worth the reward.
These points are definitely a personal thing because having spoken to friends who read "Beautiful Burn," they absolutely loved it. I honestly cannot wait to see what Adriane Leigh brings out next because as much as this didn't work massively well for me, I know whatever this author has up her sleeve for her next release will more than likely blow my mind.
I rated "Beautiful burn" ❤️❤️❤️.5
Read
March 11, 2015DNF @ 30%
The characters weren't consistent, the transitions between scenes were choppy and confusing, and the story isn't enough to keep me invested. Don't let me put you off to this, as a few of my friends are loving it, it's just not for me.
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
The characters weren't consistent, the transitions between scenes were choppy and confusing, and the story isn't enough to keep me invested. Don't let me put you off to this, as a few of my friends are loving it, it's just not for me.
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
January 20, 2015
Advance Readers Copy (ARC) provided by the lovely author Adriane Leigh for an honest review via blog tour
Before Review:
I'm so excited for this book that blurb and cover are to die for. I hope it's as good as it is in my mind.
Title: Beautiful burn
Author: Adriane Leigh
Genre: Student-Teacher Romance
Age Group: New Adult
Pages: 260
Date Read: Jan 16th, 2015
Date Release: Jan 16th, 2015
Overall Rating: 1 Star
Review:
I'm so disappointed that I never got into this book. I've stopped at 60% I couldn't go any farther than that. The book was slow, no rising action what so ever. I'm not sure if this book even has a climax.
I love reading student-teacher romance novels, but this one wasn't as good as the ones I've read before. I felt like it was rushed, and I did not feel the connection between the characters and I nor the connection between the characters themselves.
I felt if the author wrote this book in dual point of view it would have been a lot better. Reading in Reed's point of view were kind of boring. I felt the need to know what Auburn was thinking. Also this is my second book I've read by Adriane Leigh and I don't know if I'll read any more books. I love the idea of the novel's but the writing was very lacking.
Before Review:
I'm so excited for this book that blurb and cover are to die for. I hope it's as good as it is in my mind.
Title: Beautiful burn
Author: Adriane Leigh
Genre: Student-Teacher Romance
Age Group: New Adult
Pages: 260
Date Read: Jan 16th, 2015
Date Release: Jan 16th, 2015
Overall Rating: 1 Star
Review:
I'm so disappointed that I never got into this book. I've stopped at 60% I couldn't go any farther than that. The book was slow, no rising action what so ever. I'm not sure if this book even has a climax.
I love reading student-teacher romance novels, but this one wasn't as good as the ones I've read before. I felt like it was rushed, and I did not feel the connection between the characters and I nor the connection between the characters themselves.
I felt if the author wrote this book in dual point of view it would have been a lot better. Reading in Reed's point of view were kind of boring. I felt the need to know what Auburn was thinking. Also this is my second book I've read by Adriane Leigh and I don't know if I'll read any more books. I love the idea of the novel's but the writing was very lacking.
January 2, 2016
Credo che dovrebbero fare un monumento a Regina Wamba di Mae I Design and Photography, perché ancora una volta la sua bravura mi ha portato ad acquistare questo piccolo gioiellino di Adriane Leigh. E' stata la mia prima esperienza con questa autrice, e ammetto di essere rimasta molto colpita :D
Questo è stato il mio secondo appuntamento con l'argomento "relazione proibita tra studente e insegnante" ▬ il primo è stato la trilogia di Sylvain Reynard, che non sono riuscita nemmeno a finire, per quanto era pesante lo stile ▬ e sapevo, leggendo i vari teaser, che non mi avrebbe deluso.
«Voglio essere certo che tu stia scopando me, non l'insegnante su cui fantastichi mentre ti masturbi da quando avevi sedici anni.»
Ehm ehmmm!
Ladies, lasciate che vi presenti il Professor Reed West ▬ Mr. West per le ragazze cattive :P Quest'uomo porta con sé una carica sessuale che non lascia indifferenti, credetemi! A ogni pagina ti ritrovi ansimante come un cane con la lingua di fuori, solo che le vampate non sono dovute alla temperatura eheheheheheheh
Era proibita e pericolosa. Stavamo giocando col fuoco e senza dubbio ci saremmo scottati. Ma non riuscivo a impormi di andarmene.
Oh yes, girls, avete capito bene! L'intera storia è dal POV di Reed, ed è mooolto bello *-* Le scene di sesso sono così sensuali, come un vestito di pizzo vedo-non vedo, da farti arricciare le dita dei piedi e mugolare insieme a Auburn, la peccaminosa protagonista :3
La grandezza del suo cuore mi lasciò senza fiato. La portata della sua empatia mi lasciò incantato. La profondità del suo amore mi lasciò terrorizzato.
Ma io non vado mai alla ricerca di romanzi rose e fiori, voi lo sapete bene.
Ciò che cerco, ciò che voglio è il dolore.
E questo libro conferma di esserne ricolmo fin dal prologo.
Ho imparato che l'amore mente.
Solo che io non l'ho visto arrivare.
Ho abbassato la guardia e mi sono goduta la passione di Reed West, del tutto ignara di ciò che mi attendeva. Avrei dovuto tenere gli occhi aperti, invece sono stata accecata dall'amore tra Reed e Auburn.
Non potevo sapere in alcun modo che quello sarebbe stato il primo passo nella nostra caduta.
Non ho avuto modo di prepararmi ed è stato come uno schiaffo improvviso.
Duro.
Reale.
Guarda in faccia la realtà.
La ragione per cui non ho dato una valutazione piena è stato l'aver percepito gli ultimi struggenti capitoli un po' freddi. Distanti. Ma poi, con l'epilogo dal POV di Auburn, credo di aver intuito una cosa. Penso che questa potrebbe essere una storia vera. Non mi sognerei mai di domandarlo all'autrice, mi vergogno troppo, ma se così fosse non riesco neanche a immaginare quanto deve essere stato difficile scrivere le ultime pagine.
In conclusione, un romanzo che sicuramente non dimenticherò e che mi ha lasciato qualcosa che devo ancora scoprire ♥
Ho imparato che l'amore è una bellissima bruciatura in un angolo tranquillo del cuore che non può essere ignorata.
____________________________________________
✤ Leggi la recensione sul blog
✤ Blog
Read
March 16, 2015
Copy gifted by author for honest review.
***DNF @ 43%***
This is really awkward for me because I don't think I've ever NOT finished a book. Usually I can push through to the "good parts" but I just couldn't get there with this book. I really wanted to, but couldn't. Really, I wanted to DNF at 23% but convinced myself to keep pushing, but that only lasted to 43%. First of all, the book needs to be edited. I found so many mistakes just in the 43% I read. Secondly, I could not get on board with the forbidden teacher/student aspect. I get that they were, indeed teacher(professor)/student, but for goodness sakes, they were both adults and this was at college level. The absolute taboo of the situation didn't resonate with me. Thirdly, the characters. This book is told from the male's(Reed's) POV. I couldn't connect with him at all. Some of his sayings("look of a woman wet", "she could shit on me for the rest of my life and I'd be the happiest man alive"---the last one was said at 15% into the book),did not do anything for me.He seemed to change from chapter to chapter. One chapter, he absolutely would not consider doing anything with Auburn(lead female) and the next, he was all over her. He was too wishy, washy and I found him to be wimpy. The first 25% of the book went something like this between the two: flirt a little bit.......we shouldn't do this.....flirt some more.....what will people think of us? we shouldn't do this.....flirt some more...........and then BAM! Insta Love. Iwould have loved to get some of their back story like when Auburn was in high school and Reed was her teacher. Maybe then I would have felt more for them??? Not sure. After I DNF'd, I read some reviews and found this book With all of that being said, do not let my review discourage you from trying this book. It simply wasn't for me. I will be giving Adriane's other books a try and I appreciate the gift of the book.
***DNF @ 43%***
This is really awkward for me because I don't think I've ever NOT finished a book. Usually I can push through to the "good parts" but I just couldn't get there with this book. I really wanted to, but couldn't. Really, I wanted to DNF at 23% but convinced myself to keep pushing, but that only lasted to 43%. First of all, the book needs to be edited. I found so many mistakes just in the 43% I read. Secondly, I could not get on board with the forbidden teacher/student aspect. I get that they were, indeed teacher(professor)/student, but for goodness sakes, they were both adults and this was at college level. The absolute taboo of the situation didn't resonate with me. Thirdly, the characters. This book is told from the male's(Reed's) POV. I couldn't connect with him at all. Some of his sayings("look of a woman wet", "she could shit on me for the rest of my life and I'd be the happiest man alive"---the last one was said at 15% into the book),did not do anything for me.He seemed to change from chapter to chapter. One chapter, he absolutely would not consider doing anything with Auburn(lead female) and the next, he was all over her. He was too wishy, washy and I found him to be wimpy. The first 25% of the book went something like this between the two: flirt a little bit.......we shouldn't do this.....flirt some more.....what will people think of us? we shouldn't do this.....flirt some more...........and then BAM! Insta Love. Iwould have loved to get some of their back story like when Auburn was in high school and Reed was her teacher. Maybe then I would have felt more for them??? Not sure. After I DNF'd, I read some reviews and found this book With all of that being said, do not let my review discourage you from trying this book. It simply wasn't for me. I will be giving Adriane's other books a try and I appreciate the gift of the book.
January 16, 2015
This is going to be awkward. I rarely rate anything this low. Seriously.
First things first. I'm far from the grammar police, but please, for love of all that is Holy, if you're going to charge me money for a book, use it to hire an editor or at the very least find some betas to help you out. I was so close to a dnf because the errors had me stumbling while reading every few pages. No lie, one paragraph during the drive in scene reads like he may possibly have two penil. Oh yeah. That happened. He sheaths himself and two sentences later, is sheathing himself again. I had to back up and read it again. That's what I mean by stumbling while I was reading. I'm stopping to process what I just read vs what I *think* I was supposed to have read.
Secondly, the characters traits seemed to change with the chapters. I would get a feel for the characters and then the next chapter felt like I was reading about someone totally different. I never felt connected to them. Ever.
Finally, that ending couldn't have been more rushed if you tried. I didn't get teary eyed. I didn't feel connected. I was actually rolling my eyes by that point.
I appreciate where the story was going. I just never connected with any of it. It just didn't do it for me.
First things first. I'm far from the grammar police, but please, for love of all that is Holy, if you're going to charge me money for a book, use it to hire an editor or at the very least find some betas to help you out. I was so close to a dnf because the errors had me stumbling while reading every few pages. No lie, one paragraph during the drive in scene reads like he may possibly have two penil. Oh yeah. That happened. He sheaths himself and two sentences later, is sheathing himself again. I had to back up and read it again. That's what I mean by stumbling while I was reading. I'm stopping to process what I just read vs what I *think* I was supposed to have read.
Secondly, the characters traits seemed to change with the chapters. I would get a feel for the characters and then the next chapter felt like I was reading about someone totally different. I never felt connected to them. Ever.
Finally, that ending couldn't have been more rushed if you tried. I didn't get teary eyed. I didn't feel connected. I was actually rolling my eyes by that point.
I appreciate where the story was going. I just never connected with any of it. It just didn't do it for me.
January 8, 2015
I still can't describe it yet, too soon, my heart just hurts but it was a beautiful pain
I did get an advance gift of the eBook from Adriane Leigh in exchange for my thoughts - a beta read - but no guarentee was ever made of a good rating.
I did get an advance gift of the eBook from Adriane Leigh in exchange for my thoughts - a beta read - but no guarentee was ever made of a good rating.
Want to read
November 18, 2014Ooooh, this looks good!
November 13, 2021
Not sure what happened but my review/rating has disappeared from GR. Not sure if the author has reported my reviews to either goodreads and or a librarian . Full disclosure, we used to be friends and I was a beta reader for this author. This was one of her worst books to date and I told her that at the time...
Reviews are for READERS NOT the author
Reviews are for READERS NOT the author
February 2, 2015
4 PRECIOUS-MOMENTS STARS!
Something I love about reading romance stories is that they can really surprise you in very unexpected ways. Like when you think the story is going one way and the feel is that nothing too remarkable is going to happen but then out of nowhere something huge does happen and you're like 'WHAT?!' That's exactly how this book made me feel and I'm glad because by the end I was able to appreciate how some moments in the story were more precious than I ever thought... This is a student-teacher romance so it's a forbidden romance but it's also a second chance at true love.
“It felt like my heart galloped at triple speed when she laughed. It felt like the soul- shattering awareness that comes when your soul connects with it's match.”
This is the story of Reed West, a twenty-eight years old high school English teacher who's trying to rebuild his life after recently getting separated from his estranged wife. The reality of his failed marriage is taking a big toll on him yet when he thinks there's no hope for better, life reconnects him with a former student with whom he had a unique and unforgettable connection. However, this time around Auburn Lawrence is no longer a teenager, she's now a beautiful woman and Reed can't stop thinking about her even when he shouldn't because yet again, she's his student in his English writing course for the summer. But passion was passion and their connection was too strong to be ignored no matter the risks, so Reed and Auburn engage into an affair that brings them pleasure, hope, and an escape from reality.
“My entire body craved her. I craved her intellect, her sex, her smile, her laugh, her eyes- I craved everything about her.”
This book is told in Reed's POV and I thought it was refreshing to hear just his voice in my head as he narrated the excitement, fears, and hope in the story. Interestingly, for a male I found his character very emotional driven because even though he lived in constant conflict over what he so much wanted but couldn't have, he followed his heart regardless as much as he could. It felt to me like Auburn truly made his life real and meaningful but it wasn't exactly clear why until the end. Well, when I got to understand it all it was a beautiful and bitter sweet realization.
“Whatever the future held, that smile made everything worth it.”
I enjoyed Beautiful Burn, it was a seductive read with a touching message about fighting for second chances, following your heart, and not taking for granted the precious moments in life. I think it portrayed a beautiful and realistic story that most readers would enjoy when they see that a romance doesn't always has to be perfect to make you feel the love. I suggest keeping tissues handy! ;)
“I burn for you, Auburn. You’re my beautiful burn.”
Purchase: Amazon US * Amazon UK
Visit my blog for more reviews, book news, and giveaways! Blog * Facebook * Twitter
Happy reading! ;)
Something I love about reading romance stories is that they can really surprise you in very unexpected ways. Like when you think the story is going one way and the feel is that nothing too remarkable is going to happen but then out of nowhere something huge does happen and you're like 'WHAT?!' That's exactly how this book made me feel and I'm glad because by the end I was able to appreciate how some moments in the story were more precious than I ever thought... This is a student-teacher romance so it's a forbidden romance but it's also a second chance at true love.
“It felt like my heart galloped at triple speed when she laughed. It felt like the soul- shattering awareness that comes when your soul connects with it's match.”
This is the story of Reed West, a twenty-eight years old high school English teacher who's trying to rebuild his life after recently getting separated from his estranged wife. The reality of his failed marriage is taking a big toll on him yet when he thinks there's no hope for better, life reconnects him with a former student with whom he had a unique and unforgettable connection. However, this time around Auburn Lawrence is no longer a teenager, she's now a beautiful woman and Reed can't stop thinking about her even when he shouldn't because yet again, she's his student in his English writing course for the summer. But passion was passion and their connection was too strong to be ignored no matter the risks, so Reed and Auburn engage into an affair that brings them pleasure, hope, and an escape from reality.
“My entire body craved her. I craved her intellect, her sex, her smile, her laugh, her eyes- I craved everything about her.”
This book is told in Reed's POV and I thought it was refreshing to hear just his voice in my head as he narrated the excitement, fears, and hope in the story. Interestingly, for a male I found his character very emotional driven because even though he lived in constant conflict over what he so much wanted but couldn't have, he followed his heart regardless as much as he could. It felt to me like Auburn truly made his life real and meaningful but it wasn't exactly clear why until the end. Well, when I got to understand it all it was a beautiful and bitter sweet realization.
“Whatever the future held, that smile made everything worth it.”
I enjoyed Beautiful Burn, it was a seductive read with a touching message about fighting for second chances, following your heart, and not taking for granted the precious moments in life. I think it portrayed a beautiful and realistic story that most readers would enjoy when they see that a romance doesn't always has to be perfect to make you feel the love. I suggest keeping tissues handy! ;)
“I burn for you, Auburn. You’re my beautiful burn.”
Purchase: Amazon US * Amazon UK
Visit my blog for more reviews, book news, and giveaways! Blog * Facebook * Twitter
Happy reading! ;)
January 16, 2015
I'll start off by saying this isn't like the typical student / teacher romances I read, but I didn't find that a bad thing.
In fact, I took the difference as a refreshing positive change and went into this with great expectations, which in my opinion were hit.
What I read was beautiful. I enjoyed the story and hearing from a male point of view. And I found Reed to be a strong and leading voice which helped me piece together the appeal from Auburn's side. He's hot. He's smart. He's... Everything.
But... He's Auburn's former teacher.
No matter the gap in time since her school days, it's still a raw and forbidden relationship they are sharing. And that's part of the thrill with these types of books. The sneaking around and devious plots make it all worth it.
But nobody talk to me about the end. We'll leave that as 'I read it and that was enough'. I don't want to talk about it. End of. Adriane, how could you play me like that at the end?! I was not and I am still not happy with it. But the risk was a big move and it paid off. It made the story for me.
So yeah, short of it is... Read this if you are after a different student / teacher romance that doesn't follow the typical plot.
In fact, I took the difference as a refreshing positive change and went into this with great expectations, which in my opinion were hit.
What I read was beautiful. I enjoyed the story and hearing from a male point of view. And I found Reed to be a strong and leading voice which helped me piece together the appeal from Auburn's side. He's hot. He's smart. He's... Everything.
But... He's Auburn's former teacher.
No matter the gap in time since her school days, it's still a raw and forbidden relationship they are sharing. And that's part of the thrill with these types of books. The sneaking around and devious plots make it all worth it.
But nobody talk to me about the end. We'll leave that as 'I read it and that was enough'. I don't want to talk about it. End of. Adriane, how could you play me like that at the end?! I was not and I am still not happy with it. But the risk was a big move and it paid off. It made the story for me.
So yeah, short of it is... Read this if you are after a different student / teacher romance that doesn't follow the typical plot.
Read
January 20, 2015DNF @ 38% so I'm not rating it.
It's not really what I expected with all of the build up prior to release. I LOVED the first two chapters, but after that it didn't really capture me like I wanted. I'm not really feeling the attraction between the two. It feels a bit one-sided and almost stalker-ish. I know that's not how it's supposed to be, but that's the vibe I was getting -- it was a bit awkward. Maybe if I read further it would have changed, but guess I'll never know...
I always say a story isn't necessarily about plot for me, it's about how it can make me FEEL. Mr. West tells Auburn: "...story isn't about place. It's not about the climax or the resolution; it's about the emotion that connects all of us." I wish the book followed Mr. West's advice, but sadly it didn't (at least for me.)
I'm really disappointed this wasn't for me because student/teacher stories are my lifeline. Can't love 'em all. Oh well, on to the next one....
It's not really what I expected with all of the build up prior to release. I LOVED the first two chapters, but after that it didn't really capture me like I wanted. I'm not really feeling the attraction between the two. It feels a bit one-sided and almost stalker-ish. I know that's not how it's supposed to be, but that's the vibe I was getting -- it was a bit awkward. Maybe if I read further it would have changed, but guess I'll never know...
I always say a story isn't necessarily about plot for me, it's about how it can make me FEEL. Mr. West tells Auburn: "...story isn't about place. It's not about the climax or the resolution; it's about the emotion that connects all of us." I wish the book followed Mr. West's advice, but sadly it didn't (at least for me.)
I'm really disappointed this wasn't for me because student/teacher stories are my lifeline. Can't love 'em all. Oh well, on to the next one....
January 15, 2015
2.5 stars.
January 22, 2015
I have read a couple of AL s series & she has created two of the sexiest BBFs out there (Tristan & Lane) – I came across this book because of a post on my friends wall – first thing caught my eye STUDENT/TEACHER romance – SOLD. After I read the blurb – I stalked and one clicked. First off it is told in the Males LCs (Reed West) POV, very refreshing and when done well, hits it out of the ball park for me (done extremely well) I liked that this story starts off at a point where these two have and established history – it is not the first spark of that lust/love – no, it is few years later where that fire has quelled but has not quite been extinguished. The moment these two lay eyes on each other that all too familiar burn ignites. Auburn Lawrence is our heroine, she is not the shy virginal giggly school girl, she is a confident, intelligent independent young woman, taking a summer writing class given by than none other than her favorite High School English teacher Mr. West. What I liked is that while they both felt this undeniable pull/attraction/chemistry for each other while they were teacher/student, but they never acknowledged it or crossed any lines. Flash forward three years later, Auburn is in college and Mr. West separated from his quasi psycho wife. It is quite evident that these two are connected in some great cosmic way and fight as they may against – the cosmos has other plans for these two. Their story unfolds, duty and obligations, small town judgments , are some of the obstacles impeding our young lovers from finally reaching that pinnacle – having a relationship out of the shadows. My heart broke for Auburn ever understanding, ever willing to sit and wait until Reed sorted his life out. Will he won’t he, I wanted to SCREAM at REED – dump that stupid selfish bitch already and ride off into the sunset with Auburn. But as we know life does not work that way – and here my friends is where the story really turns and WOW can I tell you I was not quite expecting THIS. My heart, my poor little heart broke for a bevy of reasons, I sobbed blubbered, all that stuff.. I don’t want to say too much more so as not to give it away. But it worked – the rest of the story and its conclusion – were absolutely beautiful – I loved every minute.
Merged review:
heartbreakingly beautiful
I have read a couple of AL s series & she has created two of the sexiest BBFs out there (Tristan & Lane) - I came across this book because of a post on my friends wall - first thing caught my eye STUDENT/TEACHER romance - SOLD. After I read the blurb - I stalked and one clicked. First off it is told in the Males LCs (Reed West) POV, very refreshing and when done well, hits it out of the ball park for me (done extremely well) I liked that this story starts off at a point where these two have and established history - it is not the first spark of that lust/love - no, it is few years later where that fire has quelled but not quite completely been extinguished. The moment these two lay eyes on each other that all too familiar burn ignites. Auburn Lawrence is our heroine, she is not the shy virginal giggly school girl, she is a confident, intelligent independent young woman, taking a summer writing class given by than none other than her favorite High School English teacher Mr. West. What I liked is that while they both felt this undeniable pull/attraction/chemistry for each other while they were teacher/student, but they never acknowledged it or crossed any lines. Flash forward three years later, Auburn is in college and Mr. West separated from his quasi psycho wife. It is quite evident that these two are connected in some great cosmic way and fight as they may against - the cosmos has other plans for these two. Their story unfolds, duty and obligations, small town judgments , are some of the obstacles impeding our young lovers from finally reaching that pinnacle - having a relationship out of the shadows. My heart broke for Auburn ever understanding, ever willing to sit and wait until Reed sorted his life out. Will he won't he, I wanted to SCREAM at REED - dump that stupid selfish bitch already and ride off into the sunset with Auburn. But as we know life does not work that way - and here my friends is where the story really turns and WOW can I tell you I was not quite expecting THIS. My heart, my poor little heart broke for a bevy of reasons. But it was well worth the heartbreaking burn!!!
Merged review:
heartbreakingly beautiful
I have read a couple of AL s series & she has created two of the sexiest BBFs out there (Tristan & Lane) - I came across this book because of a post on my friends wall - first thing caught my eye STUDENT/TEACHER romance - SOLD. After I read the blurb - I stalked and one clicked. First off it is told in the Males LCs (Reed West) POV, very refreshing and when done well, hits it out of the ball park for me (done extremely well) I liked that this story starts off at a point where these two have and established history - it is not the first spark of that lust/love - no, it is few years later where that fire has quelled but not quite completely been extinguished. The moment these two lay eyes on each other that all too familiar burn ignites. Auburn Lawrence is our heroine, she is not the shy virginal giggly school girl, she is a confident, intelligent independent young woman, taking a summer writing class given by than none other than her favorite High School English teacher Mr. West. What I liked is that while they both felt this undeniable pull/attraction/chemistry for each other while they were teacher/student, but they never acknowledged it or crossed any lines. Flash forward three years later, Auburn is in college and Mr. West separated from his quasi psycho wife. It is quite evident that these two are connected in some great cosmic way and fight as they may against - the cosmos has other plans for these two. Their story unfolds, duty and obligations, small town judgments , are some of the obstacles impeding our young lovers from finally reaching that pinnacle - having a relationship out of the shadows. My heart broke for Auburn ever understanding, ever willing to sit and wait until Reed sorted his life out. Will he won't he, I wanted to SCREAM at REED - dump that stupid selfish bitch already and ride off into the sunset with Auburn. But as we know life does not work that way - and here my friends is where the story really turns and WOW can I tell you I was not quite expecting THIS. My heart, my poor little heart broke for a bevy of reasons. But it was well worth the heartbreaking burn!!!
February 1, 2015
“Love is a beautiful burn in a quiet corner of the heart that won’t be ignored.”
Regardless of age, the forbidden nature of the relationship, or the emotional trauma that could come from entering into a love affair with a former student, Reed West can no longer deny the chemistry and pull between him and Auburn Lawrence when she returns to their small hometown on college summer vacation. They burn for each other and regardless of the fact that Reed knows that he’s playing with fire, the connection they share is something he desperately wants to experience, and he’s willing to risk everything to feel Auburn’s love despite the complications that arise due to his past and an aspect of his life that he hasn’t shared with anyone.
What follows is a secret liaison between two people who can’t stay away from each other, and as Reed and Auburn’s love grows and the flame continues to burn, readers experience the highs and lows of their forbidden love and what it could end up costing them both.
I’ve read a lot of Adriane Leigh’s book, and I truly enjoy her storytelling and characters, but Reed and Auburn’s story didn’t quite hit the mark for me. Don’t get me wrong…I liked Beautiful Burn, and I caught glimpses of who Reed and Auburn were supposed to be, both together and individually, but I didn’t feel like their relationship or their characters were fully developed or understood. I wanted to know some of their back story in order to understand where their bond first was established and what it meant to both of them back then to prompt it to start so quickly years later.
There’s so much potential in Beautiful Burn to be expanded on, and I guess that is what I was looking for. I wanted to truly understand the motives, actions, and choices that altered Reed and Auburn so significantly, but I didn’t feel like I got them. The book was a short read, so just as I was starting to get involved in their relationship, the story was over and I was left conflicted.
I do like that it was written through Reed’s point of view because it truly is his story. Auburn goes through it with him, but there really is much more at stake for him than her, even more than Auburn or readers truly understand until the end.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Regardless of age, the forbidden nature of the relationship, or the emotional trauma that could come from entering into a love affair with a former student, Reed West can no longer deny the chemistry and pull between him and Auburn Lawrence when she returns to their small hometown on college summer vacation. They burn for each other and regardless of the fact that Reed knows that he’s playing with fire, the connection they share is something he desperately wants to experience, and he’s willing to risk everything to feel Auburn’s love despite the complications that arise due to his past and an aspect of his life that he hasn’t shared with anyone.
What follows is a secret liaison between two people who can’t stay away from each other, and as Reed and Auburn’s love grows and the flame continues to burn, readers experience the highs and lows of their forbidden love and what it could end up costing them both.
I’ve read a lot of Adriane Leigh’s book, and I truly enjoy her storytelling and characters, but Reed and Auburn’s story didn’t quite hit the mark for me. Don’t get me wrong…I liked Beautiful Burn, and I caught glimpses of who Reed and Auburn were supposed to be, both together and individually, but I didn’t feel like their relationship or their characters were fully developed or understood. I wanted to know some of their back story in order to understand where their bond first was established and what it meant to both of them back then to prompt it to start so quickly years later.
There’s so much potential in Beautiful Burn to be expanded on, and I guess that is what I was looking for. I wanted to truly understand the motives, actions, and choices that altered Reed and Auburn so significantly, but I didn’t feel like I got them. The book was a short read, so just as I was starting to get involved in their relationship, the story was over and I was left conflicted.
I do like that it was written through Reed’s point of view because it truly is his story. Auburn goes through it with him, but there really is much more at stake for him than her, even more than Auburn or readers truly understand until the end.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
February 2, 2015
This book. OMG THIS BOOK!!!!
First off, Adriane Leigh. You are brilliant. EFFEN BRILLIANT!! Your thoughts. Your writing. I think I love you. Your mind. You little mind fucker you!!!! This book instantly became one of my favorites of all time!!! I will tell everyone with a heartbeat to READ THIS BOOK!!!
Ok. This will be a short review, because, well. Spoilers. And reasons. I will not rob you of that shock and awe factor. I want everyone to feel what I felt when you get to that part. And you will understand. It literally sucked the air right out of my lungs. What I can talk about is the hotness in this book. And holy fucking hotness!!!! You write sex and dirty talk like no other!! Mr. West or Reed is a high school English teacher. And Auburn WAS his high school student some years ago. During high school they formed a special friendship. NOT THAT KIND PEOPLE!! Mr. West isn’t a creepo!! But Auburn enrolls in his summer college course. All grown up. Their connection is still there. It’s like picking up where they left off. But this time around with all hot, sexy, dirty things!! I lost count on how many fake emoji cigarettes I smoked. But man, they were needed. This book will melt the panties right off you. So, like Auburn, you should probably just not wear any! Reed is the sexiest, so romantic, sweetest, dirtiest talker out there. And Auburn. I just love her! So caring, carefree, sexy, fun. They are absolutely perfect. Except… he’s still married. CALM DOWN! He’s separated!! Completely done. Again. MR. WEST IS NOT A CREEPO OR A CHEATER!! Auburn puts up with this and is understanding. Until…well, you will just have to read to find out cause I don’t do spoilers. And I just can’t go on after this part.
There are certain things in this book THAT I NEVER SAW COMING!! And I absolutely love those kind that just sucker punches you. This is my first Adriane Leigh book and she’s my new favorite person!! Go now and 1-click this bitch!!!!
First off, Adriane Leigh. You are brilliant. EFFEN BRILLIANT!! Your thoughts. Your writing. I think I love you. Your mind. You little mind fucker you!!!! This book instantly became one of my favorites of all time!!! I will tell everyone with a heartbeat to READ THIS BOOK!!!
Ok. This will be a short review, because, well. Spoilers. And reasons. I will not rob you of that shock and awe factor. I want everyone to feel what I felt when you get to that part. And you will understand. It literally sucked the air right out of my lungs. What I can talk about is the hotness in this book. And holy fucking hotness!!!! You write sex and dirty talk like no other!! Mr. West or Reed is a high school English teacher. And Auburn WAS his high school student some years ago. During high school they formed a special friendship. NOT THAT KIND PEOPLE!! Mr. West isn’t a creepo!! But Auburn enrolls in his summer college course. All grown up. Their connection is still there. It’s like picking up where they left off. But this time around with all hot, sexy, dirty things!! I lost count on how many fake emoji cigarettes I smoked. But man, they were needed. This book will melt the panties right off you. So, like Auburn, you should probably just not wear any! Reed is the sexiest, so romantic, sweetest, dirtiest talker out there. And Auburn. I just love her! So caring, carefree, sexy, fun. They are absolutely perfect. Except… he’s still married. CALM DOWN! He’s separated!! Completely done. Again. MR. WEST IS NOT A CREEPO OR A CHEATER!! Auburn puts up with this and is understanding. Until…well, you will just have to read to find out cause I don’t do spoilers. And I just can’t go on after this part.
There are certain things in this book THAT I NEVER SAW COMING!! And I absolutely love those kind that just sucker punches you. This is my first Adriane Leigh book and she’s my new favorite person!! Go now and 1-click this bitch!!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 252 reviews