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Luminara #1
Lussuria
Librarian's note: This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN: B00GWOXKPA.
An emotional erotic heart-wrenching story of lust, love and light.
File U for upside down. Lexi Robertson's carefully constructed life is about to be turned upside down.
Recently hired as Club di Energia's physiotherapist, the stunning yet insecure twenty-six year old finally thinks she has a handle on her physically and mentally damaging past. The only way Lexi can cope is by compartmentalizing her feelings with a unique, internal filing system. To maintain order, Lexi has a firm set of boundaries in place, and she never lets anyone too close.
File N for not happening. Lexi has no intention of giving in to the charming Lucca Caruso when he comes into her clinic for an emergency physiotherapy session. Despite his painstakingly handsome face and Italian that renders her speechless, Lexi is able to resist.
A Tuscany vacation with her best friend is just what Lexi needs to stop worrying about life and start enjoying it. A cooking course at a villa near the Chianti hills, just outside of Florence, will take her mind off a certain set of mesmerising azure blue eyes.
File F for fate. Lexi never expected to see the Italian god again, but they're staying at the same villa.
For someone that purposely refuses to feel, Lexi finds herself on a journey of self-discovery, helplessly folding, melting, and crumbling under the temptation of her heart's desire.
An emotional, erotic, heart-wrenching story of lust, love, and light.
Lexi struggles to confide in Lucca, slowly learning how to love and trust. Lucca is a gentle, patient lover with a heart of gold, but his need for Lexi is insatiable. He's the man we all want and can't get enough of.
Through the passion of lust and the sweetness of love, Lexi spreads her wings towards the light … until her past comes back to haunt her.
A hot and sexy story of survival, acceptance, learning to trust, and believing. One woman's destiny to find her light, and the one man who can take here there.
Welcome to the Luminara series.
Please note. Lussuria was first published in November 2013. SJ Molloy has worked on a developmental edit and republished the book. This is version two, with two extra chapters, bonus scenes and flashbacks.
An emotional erotic heart-wrenching story of lust, love and light.
File U for upside down. Lexi Robertson's carefully constructed life is about to be turned upside down.
Recently hired as Club di Energia's physiotherapist, the stunning yet insecure twenty-six year old finally thinks she has a handle on her physically and mentally damaging past. The only way Lexi can cope is by compartmentalizing her feelings with a unique, internal filing system. To maintain order, Lexi has a firm set of boundaries in place, and she never lets anyone too close.
File N for not happening. Lexi has no intention of giving in to the charming Lucca Caruso when he comes into her clinic for an emergency physiotherapy session. Despite his painstakingly handsome face and Italian that renders her speechless, Lexi is able to resist.
A Tuscany vacation with her best friend is just what Lexi needs to stop worrying about life and start enjoying it. A cooking course at a villa near the Chianti hills, just outside of Florence, will take her mind off a certain set of mesmerising azure blue eyes.
File F for fate. Lexi never expected to see the Italian god again, but they're staying at the same villa.
For someone that purposely refuses to feel, Lexi finds herself on a journey of self-discovery, helplessly folding, melting, and crumbling under the temptation of her heart's desire.
An emotional, erotic, heart-wrenching story of lust, love, and light.
Lexi struggles to confide in Lucca, slowly learning how to love and trust. Lucca is a gentle, patient lover with a heart of gold, but his need for Lexi is insatiable. He's the man we all want and can't get enough of.
Through the passion of lust and the sweetness of love, Lexi spreads her wings towards the light … until her past comes back to haunt her.
A hot and sexy story of survival, acceptance, learning to trust, and believing. One woman's destiny to find her light, and the one man who can take here there.
Welcome to the Luminara series.
Please note. Lussuria was first published in November 2013. SJ Molloy has worked on a developmental edit and republished the book. This is version two, with two extra chapters, bonus scenes and flashbacks.
469 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2013
112 people are currently reading
993 people want to read
About the author
S.J. Molloy
10 books309 followersSJ Molloy, British Author of ‘The Luminara Series’ was born in Edinburgh, Scotland. She currently resides in Scotland with her husband, two daughters, and loving gun dog who is utterly spoiled. Along with writing and publishing romance fiction, SJ is completing her MLitt Creative Writing, Crime Writing and Forensic Investigation postgrad at Dundee University, Scotland.
SJ loves well-developed, multi-layered stories with moral complexities in various genre's. SJ will be splitting her time between writing and publishing crime fiction; namely: Tartan Noir, Mystery Suspense, and Psychological Thrillers along with various genre's of romance fiction, script writing, blog posts, and freelance creative writing.
When she's not writing, reading, studying, enjoying family time or walking her dog, SJ loves all things practical and creative. Dancing, music, cooking, travelling, good food and wine are her favourite past times along with laughter, lots and lots of laughter.
SJ loves well-developed, multi-layered stories with moral complexities in various genre's. SJ will be splitting her time between writing and publishing crime fiction; namely: Tartan Noir, Mystery Suspense, and Psychological Thrillers along with various genre's of romance fiction, script writing, blog posts, and freelance creative writing.
When she's not writing, reading, studying, enjoying family time or walking her dog, SJ loves all things practical and creative. Dancing, music, cooking, travelling, good food and wine are her favourite past times along with laughter, lots and lots of laughter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
June 16, 2017
***** 3.5 Stars *****
Lexi is a very insecure woman due to her painful past. With a history involving abuse, it is no wonder why Lexi avoids physical contact with strangers. However, she is able to overcome her fear when her patients are in pain. Her skills in physiotherapy is the reason why Lucca walked into her office for back pain.
Lucca falls in love with her instantly. And he always gets what he wants. Fate had then meeting again in Tuscany. While Lexi was there on vacation, Lucca was there for business and family. He notices Lexi's insecurities and is very patient with her. He is the perfect gentleman, and he also spoils her with riches.
The relationship between them moves very fast. I really enjoyed the story and erotic moments. I also enjoyed the supporting characters in the story. They have a lot of personality and seemed more realistic. My only issue was the overly fluffy dialogue.
Lexi is a very insecure woman due to her painful past. With a history involving abuse, it is no wonder why Lexi avoids physical contact with strangers. However, she is able to overcome her fear when her patients are in pain. Her skills in physiotherapy is the reason why Lucca walked into her office for back pain.
Lucca falls in love with her instantly. And he always gets what he wants. Fate had then meeting again in Tuscany. While Lexi was there on vacation, Lucca was there for business and family. He notices Lexi's insecurities and is very patient with her. He is the perfect gentleman, and he also spoils her with riches.
The relationship between them moves very fast. I really enjoyed the story and erotic moments. I also enjoyed the supporting characters in the story. They have a lot of personality and seemed more realistic. My only issue was the overly fluffy dialogue.
November 29, 2013
Big thanks to S.J. for an ARC copy for review.
What a great debut novel from S.J. This story definitely had me hooked from beginning to end. It has everything from sensual and steaming romance, painful pasts, heartache, and healing. This is about Lucca and Lexi trying to recover from their haunted pasts and manage to find happiness and true love with each other.
The main heroine, Lexi is a smart, savvy, and independent young woman, yet the sadness and despair within her is weighing her down. The hero of the story is Lucca, who is dashingly handsome, caring, and devoted, but underneath he is vulnerable and scarred. It was heart wrenching to know how much they were suffering with their buried secrets. But, fate works it's magic and brings these two souls together. The connection between Lexi and Lucca both emotionally and physically was undeniably perfect. The love they had for each other was very heartfelt. And Lucca really has a way with words..
"God, I loved it. That feeling of you, of us together... Lexi, I have never loved anyone as much" ~ Lucca to Lexi
The ending left off in a good place, but the epilogue has me worried that something from the past isn't necessarily left behind. It makes me really anxious for a sequel.
Review also posted at: http://jesstimetoread.blogspot.com
What a great debut novel from S.J. This story definitely had me hooked from beginning to end. It has everything from sensual and steaming romance, painful pasts, heartache, and healing. This is about Lucca and Lexi trying to recover from their haunted pasts and manage to find happiness and true love with each other.
The main heroine, Lexi is a smart, savvy, and independent young woman, yet the sadness and despair within her is weighing her down. The hero of the story is Lucca, who is dashingly handsome, caring, and devoted, but underneath he is vulnerable and scarred. It was heart wrenching to know how much they were suffering with their buried secrets. But, fate works it's magic and brings these two souls together. The connection between Lexi and Lucca both emotionally and physically was undeniably perfect. The love they had for each other was very heartfelt. And Lucca really has a way with words..
"God, I loved it. That feeling of you, of us together... Lexi, I have never loved anyone as much" ~ Lucca to Lexi
The ending left off in a good place, but the epilogue has me worried that something from the past isn't necessarily left behind. It makes me really anxious for a sequel.
Review also posted at: http://jesstimetoread.blogspot.com
November 27, 2013
Lussuria (Luminara #1) by: SJ Molloy
Review By: Julia Sal-Rod
*I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. *
Rate 4 out of 5
I would recommend this book to all my reader friends.
No Spoilers included!
**I really liked this book!
If you like romance and sex well then this book is for you. So naturally it was a book after my own heart! The epilogue was a little confusing and the beginning of the story was a little slow but then I got hooked. I couldn’t put the book down past Chapter 3!!! We are talking about steamy, sexy and very real chemistry between two very attractive people! I loved that the author made them REAL, with real problems, real emotions and real solutions. Lexi and Lucca are great characters that had me rooting for them from the start! I cant wait to read the next installment of the Luminara Series!
Five things I loved about Lexi:
1: I loved her that she doesn’t know how beautiful she is.
2: I loved that she is a brunette (as am I!)
3: I loved that she is caring, selfless and loyal.
4: I would definitely want to be friends with her!
5: After finding lust and love she finds that she is “Something Special”!!
Five things I loved about Lucca:
1: He knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to claim it!
2: He is determined.
3: His azure blue eyes (dreamy)!
4: He is selfless and loving.
5: He isn’t afraid of PDA and showing his love for his “Something Special”.
Review By: Julia Sal-Rod
*I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. *
Rate 4 out of 5
I would recommend this book to all my reader friends.
No Spoilers included!
**I really liked this book!
If you like romance and sex well then this book is for you. So naturally it was a book after my own heart! The epilogue was a little confusing and the beginning of the story was a little slow but then I got hooked. I couldn’t put the book down past Chapter 3!!! We are talking about steamy, sexy and very real chemistry between two very attractive people! I loved that the author made them REAL, with real problems, real emotions and real solutions. Lexi and Lucca are great characters that had me rooting for them from the start! I cant wait to read the next installment of the Luminara Series!
Five things I loved about Lexi:
1: I loved her that she doesn’t know how beautiful she is.
2: I loved that she is a brunette (as am I!)
3: I loved that she is caring, selfless and loyal.
4: I would definitely want to be friends with her!
5: After finding lust and love she finds that she is “Something Special”!!
Five things I loved about Lucca:
1: He knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to claim it!
2: He is determined.
3: His azure blue eyes (dreamy)!
4: He is selfless and loving.
5: He isn’t afraid of PDA and showing his love for his “Something Special”.
June 3, 2014
This is the debt novel by S.J Molloy and I loved it.
The story is about Lexi and Lucca. Lexi is a strong woman who has a past that keeps haunting her in nightmare and she finds it hard to trust anyone new. Lucca is a brilliantly strong male lead, I loved him and he is moving high up on my book boyfriend list. Fate has a way of bringing Lexi and Lucca together. There is an instance connection and chemistry between Lexi and Lucca. I loved Lucca and how it was so patient and protective of Lexi.
The author does a great job of expressing the emotions of Lexi and Lucca. I could really feel all the emotions expressed by Lexi and Lucca. The story felt incredible like real life. I liked how you got little snippets of Lexi’s past throughout and at times it was very heart wrenching. There is also plenty of steamy and sexy scenes. All the secondary characters were also great and I felt you really got to know them well in book.
The book is very well written and flows really well. Once I started the book I was hooked and did’nt want to but it down. This book is part of a series but it ends in a good place and I am so glad I have book 2 to go straight on to. Thank you so much S.J Molley for providing me with the review copy of this.
Overall a great emotional, sexy romance story. I can’t wait to read more about Lexi and Lucca in book 2.
*I received a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
The story is about Lexi and Lucca. Lexi is a strong woman who has a past that keeps haunting her in nightmare and she finds it hard to trust anyone new. Lucca is a brilliantly strong male lead, I loved him and he is moving high up on my book boyfriend list. Fate has a way of bringing Lexi and Lucca together. There is an instance connection and chemistry between Lexi and Lucca. I loved Lucca and how it was so patient and protective of Lexi.
The author does a great job of expressing the emotions of Lexi and Lucca. I could really feel all the emotions expressed by Lexi and Lucca. The story felt incredible like real life. I liked how you got little snippets of Lexi’s past throughout and at times it was very heart wrenching. There is also plenty of steamy and sexy scenes. All the secondary characters were also great and I felt you really got to know them well in book.
The book is very well written and flows really well. Once I started the book I was hooked and did’nt want to but it down. This book is part of a series but it ends in a good place and I am so glad I have book 2 to go straight on to. Thank you so much S.J Molley for providing me with the review copy of this.
Overall a great emotional, sexy romance story. I can’t wait to read more about Lexi and Lucca in book 2.
*I received a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
November 27, 2013
Amazing book you feel every emotion lexi and lucca feel I was hooked with lussuria from 7 percent into the book could not put it down of you have not bought it and its on your to read list I would definitely buy it you would not been disappointed cant wait till February 2014 for the next one #lustlovelight #lexi #lucca :-)
May 22, 2021
Book Review: Lussuria; The Luminara Series, Book 1
Author: SJ Molloy
Four Stars
This book has many triggers. If you have any history or suffer from domestic violence including molestation, rape, abuse etc I would recommend you not read this series.
With that being said, Alexis has met her Italian God and she is being spoiled and loved deeply.
Lucca and Alexis are a match unlike any other. Despite her history and inability to trust, Alexis finds herself drawn to Lucca and really hates being away from him.
SJ Molloy is a good writer. You will find yourself not being able to put this book down and you will just keep reading and reading. There are very descriptive sexual activities that happen VERY frequently. I honestly do no think I have ever read a book that has had this much sex in it.
This is a lengthy read but it is worth it.
KLH
Author: SJ Molloy
Four Stars
This book has many triggers. If you have any history or suffer from domestic violence including molestation, rape, abuse etc I would recommend you not read this series.
With that being said, Alexis has met her Italian God and she is being spoiled and loved deeply.
Lucca and Alexis are a match unlike any other. Despite her history and inability to trust, Alexis finds herself drawn to Lucca and really hates being away from him.
SJ Molloy is a good writer. You will find yourself not being able to put this book down and you will just keep reading and reading. There are very descriptive sexual activities that happen VERY frequently. I honestly do no think I have ever read a book that has had this much sex in it.
This is a lengthy read but it is worth it.
KLH
Want to read
April 20, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/20/2021)! 🎁
April 21, 2014
WOW this is one erotic compassionate story of desire and love
Lexi Robertson is young, who is anxious and haunted by painful memories from her dark past. She lives her life by her rules and has a lot of boundaries; she never gets close to anyone.
Mr Caruso has the most spellbinding blue eyes and a very very big heart. He is also an Italian sex god. ( I just found a new BBF).
Lexi and Lucca cross paths and he ignites something in Lexi she never expected, but Lexi doesn’t think she will see him again. That is until fate intrudes.
Lexi and her friend decide to take a 2 week break to a Villa in Val D'Orcia, in Florence, but Lexi is about to get a very big shock which will start her of on a discovery of her heart’s desire.
Can she find the light from her dark life can Mr Caruso help her get through?
WOW BLOODY WOW what a brilliant story not only is there love there is also a sexy Italian god put into the mix enough to melt your knickers. I’M in LOVEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE.
This book takes you on an emotional journey of what a life can be after such an upsetting childhood.
I loved this book I never fore sore what Lexi’s dark past would be and I was shocked. It takes a lot to shock me.
The Author goes into lots of details and I loved it she makes you feel like you’re there.
100* STARS FOR THIS BOOK
Its released on the 26th November and I would certainly recommend it.
Well done SJ MOLLEY thank you so much for allowing me a sneak peak at this book before release I have really enjoyed it
Linda xxx
SECOND TIME ROUND REVIEW
I reviewed this book last year on its release day, but SJ Molloy has re-edited this book and omg its cazzo incredibile ( in English it says fucking amazing). I was in awe and couldn’t put it down.
Lexi Robertson is young; she is anxious and haunted by painful memories from her dark past. She lives her life by her rules and her rules alone she also has a lot of boundaries; she never gets close to anyone and no feelings to life she just exists. Even with her grandparents, brother and a very close friend Lexi still struggles with the darkness of her life.
Mr Lucca Caruso has the most spellbinding azure blue eyes and a molto grande cuore (very big heart) and a grande cazzo (look it up). He is also an Italian sex god. ( I just found a new BBF).
Lexi and Lucca cross paths and he is intrigued in the belle donne (beautiful women) she is mesmerised by his eyes. Again they cross paths and Lucca is taken with her instantly but Lexi doesn’t remember him.
Lexi and her friend decide to take a 3 week break in Tuscany on an Italian cooking course, but Lexi is about to get a very big shock. How will she react when yet again she comes face to face with Lucca. What are the chances of meeting this man again a million miles from home. Is he stalking her?
Lexi is about to scoprire la vita (discovery life) and what it really means to actually live a life not just exist
Can she find the light from her dark life can Lucca bring some light in to Lexi’s dark life?
Can he make her feel again?
Cazzo Incredibile I loved this book even though I have read it before it’s even better with the changes that have been made. God who cannot enjoy this book it has an Italian sex god in it and plenty of Italian SESSO (look it up) hee hee
100* STARS FOR THIS BOOK
Again thank you SJ for allowing me to read this book again before its release I’m so excited for the 2nd one in the series. I had to have a few cold showers hee hee
Lexi Robertson is young, who is anxious and haunted by painful memories from her dark past. She lives her life by her rules and has a lot of boundaries; she never gets close to anyone.
Mr Caruso has the most spellbinding blue eyes and a very very big heart. He is also an Italian sex god. ( I just found a new BBF).
Lexi and Lucca cross paths and he ignites something in Lexi she never expected, but Lexi doesn’t think she will see him again. That is until fate intrudes.
Lexi and her friend decide to take a 2 week break to a Villa in Val D'Orcia, in Florence, but Lexi is about to get a very big shock which will start her of on a discovery of her heart’s desire.
Can she find the light from her dark life can Mr Caruso help her get through?
WOW BLOODY WOW what a brilliant story not only is there love there is also a sexy Italian god put into the mix enough to melt your knickers. I’M in LOVEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE.
This book takes you on an emotional journey of what a life can be after such an upsetting childhood.
I loved this book I never fore sore what Lexi’s dark past would be and I was shocked. It takes a lot to shock me.
The Author goes into lots of details and I loved it she makes you feel like you’re there.
100* STARS FOR THIS BOOK
Its released on the 26th November and I would certainly recommend it.
Well done SJ MOLLEY thank you so much for allowing me a sneak peak at this book before release I have really enjoyed it
Linda xxx
SECOND TIME ROUND REVIEW
I reviewed this book last year on its release day, but SJ Molloy has re-edited this book and omg its cazzo incredibile ( in English it says fucking amazing). I was in awe and couldn’t put it down.
Lexi Robertson is young; she is anxious and haunted by painful memories from her dark past. She lives her life by her rules and her rules alone she also has a lot of boundaries; she never gets close to anyone and no feelings to life she just exists. Even with her grandparents, brother and a very close friend Lexi still struggles with the darkness of her life.
Mr Lucca Caruso has the most spellbinding azure blue eyes and a molto grande cuore (very big heart) and a grande cazzo (look it up). He is also an Italian sex god. ( I just found a new BBF).
Lexi and Lucca cross paths and he is intrigued in the belle donne (beautiful women) she is mesmerised by his eyes. Again they cross paths and Lucca is taken with her instantly but Lexi doesn’t remember him.
Lexi and her friend decide to take a 3 week break in Tuscany on an Italian cooking course, but Lexi is about to get a very big shock. How will she react when yet again she comes face to face with Lucca. What are the chances of meeting this man again a million miles from home. Is he stalking her?
Lexi is about to scoprire la vita (discovery life) and what it really means to actually live a life not just exist
Can she find the light from her dark life can Lucca bring some light in to Lexi’s dark life?
Can he make her feel again?
Cazzo Incredibile I loved this book even though I have read it before it’s even better with the changes that have been made. God who cannot enjoy this book it has an Italian sex god in it and plenty of Italian SESSO (look it up) hee hee
100* STARS FOR THIS BOOK
Again thank you SJ for allowing me to read this book again before its release I’m so excited for the 2nd one in the series. I had to have a few cold showers hee hee
December 5, 2013
Coming from a horrible past, Alexis has spent many years learning to live again. She has a few select friends that she lets in. She is always guarded and careful not to let many close to her. And she guards her body, she knows if anyone sees the scars left behind they will never be able to love her. Her past left her feeling like a shell of a person, not the beautiful woman she really is.
But everything begins to change when she opens up her new clinic. An amazing Italian God walks in before the clinic is open and needs someone to look at his back. Though Alexis tries to have him come back when the clinic is open, he is persistent. She finally agrees to provide the initial consultation for him but insists he return in a week to meet with her partner for a follow-up. But the second she starts to examine him and she is forced to touch his skin, something inside her changes. There is something about him… But she is going on vacation and a man in her life is not what she needs. She knows that he will run the second he sees any glimmer of her past.
When she and her best friend arrive at their vacation destination, she sees him and panics. She never told him where she was going… and why is he there? It was almost too much for her to handle.
This book captured me instantly. I wanted to know what was so horrible in her past that she was afraid to even look at this guy, she was afraid to feel any real emotions for him… This book is a beautiful story about letting go of the past and learning to open your heart and learning that not everyone is a bad person. Everyone has demons in their past, but it is learning to accept and deal with them that is the hardest part in creating a future.
I fell in love with this book. My heart broke for both Alexis and for Lucca. But had such sad tales. But the way they recovered from them left me with a smile and a warm feeling in my heart. I wanted to reach out and hug Alexis so many time while reading this book. You want to talk about a hard life… the next time I think something has gone terribly wrong in my own little world, I will not complain, the things this she endured were just heart-wrenching. Lucca dealt with dark past it seems a little better, but it was still so sad all the same.
When I started reading this, I was afraid I was going to have a hard time with it, not because of the subject matter, but more because of the locations in the book. But as was reading, I was drawn more and more into the scenery in my mind and I fell in love with the places and the people I pictured. With that said, I think for S.J. Molloy to paint such vivid pictures in her book with words is an amazing talent.
I know I talked a lot about the tragedies that these two characters have had to deal with from their past, but the passion between the two of them is just amazing. One look, one touch and it send the hot right over the edge. I loved the chemistry between the two of them!
I am looking forward to reading more in this series by S.J. Molloy! It was amazing!
**I received a complimentary copy of Lussuria in exchange for an honest review
But everything begins to change when she opens up her new clinic. An amazing Italian God walks in before the clinic is open and needs someone to look at his back. Though Alexis tries to have him come back when the clinic is open, he is persistent. She finally agrees to provide the initial consultation for him but insists he return in a week to meet with her partner for a follow-up. But the second she starts to examine him and she is forced to touch his skin, something inside her changes. There is something about him… But she is going on vacation and a man in her life is not what she needs. She knows that he will run the second he sees any glimmer of her past.
When she and her best friend arrive at their vacation destination, she sees him and panics. She never told him where she was going… and why is he there? It was almost too much for her to handle.
This book captured me instantly. I wanted to know what was so horrible in her past that she was afraid to even look at this guy, she was afraid to feel any real emotions for him… This book is a beautiful story about letting go of the past and learning to open your heart and learning that not everyone is a bad person. Everyone has demons in their past, but it is learning to accept and deal with them that is the hardest part in creating a future.
I fell in love with this book. My heart broke for both Alexis and for Lucca. But had such sad tales. But the way they recovered from them left me with a smile and a warm feeling in my heart. I wanted to reach out and hug Alexis so many time while reading this book. You want to talk about a hard life… the next time I think something has gone terribly wrong in my own little world, I will not complain, the things this she endured were just heart-wrenching. Lucca dealt with dark past it seems a little better, but it was still so sad all the same.
When I started reading this, I was afraid I was going to have a hard time with it, not because of the subject matter, but more because of the locations in the book. But as was reading, I was drawn more and more into the scenery in my mind and I fell in love with the places and the people I pictured. With that said, I think for S.J. Molloy to paint such vivid pictures in her book with words is an amazing talent.
I know I talked a lot about the tragedies that these two characters have had to deal with from their past, but the passion between the two of them is just amazing. One look, one touch and it send the hot right over the edge. I loved the chemistry between the two of them!
I am looking forward to reading more in this series by S.J. Molloy! It was amazing!
**I received a complimentary copy of Lussuria in exchange for an honest review
September 7, 2016
Lexi is a Woman who doesnt give out her trust easily and to to many people in fact, they have to be within her inner circle of friends and only a few of them are Males. Lexi didnt have the best upbringing and still to this day has horrible vivid nightmares of her past. Lexi never thought she would see herself with any man but then Lucca walked into her office and what he wants her goes for, and he has his eyes set on Lexi and is willing to do whatever it takes to get her to be his. Both Lexi and Lucca have demons of their paths and Lexi will have to see if she has what it takes to let Lucca into her life and let herself trust another man.
What I enjoyed most about Lussuria is watching a Woman who is so closed off when it comes to people she doesnt know, she is great at her job and that is helping others including Men but it ends with her being in Control of everything, But with Lucca things are different with him and she seems to have this Comfort with him that she has never had with any one else in her entire life. Lucca is so Patient and willing to wait her out for her to be comfortable sharing her past with him, but at times he isnt going to like what has happened but will be there for her.
This is an Amazing S.J. Molloy novel. The first of many I plan to read of hers. This story has a lot of hurt and anguish from Lexi's past, demons she still faces to this day, A man who walks into her life and doesnt give up no matter how much he gets pushed away, Lexi for the first time in her life is feeling for a man but afraid at every turn that once he knows her true past will walk away, a story of a Man and Woman for the first time feeling for each other like they have never felt for anyone else, a Holiday Romance with a love story and happy ending. If you like stories like this, then Lussuria is a must!!
What I enjoyed most about Lussuria is watching a Woman who is so closed off when it comes to people she doesnt know, she is great at her job and that is helping others including Men but it ends with her being in Control of everything, But with Lucca things are different with him and she seems to have this Comfort with him that she has never had with any one else in her entire life. Lucca is so Patient and willing to wait her out for her to be comfortable sharing her past with him, but at times he isnt going to like what has happened but will be there for her.
This is an Amazing S.J. Molloy novel. The first of many I plan to read of hers. This story has a lot of hurt and anguish from Lexi's past, demons she still faces to this day, A man who walks into her life and doesnt give up no matter how much he gets pushed away, Lexi for the first time in her life is feeling for a man but afraid at every turn that once he knows her true past will walk away, a story of a Man and Woman for the first time feeling for each other like they have never felt for anyone else, a Holiday Romance with a love story and happy ending. If you like stories like this, then Lussuria is a must!!
September 12, 2014
I was lucky to get this book and be able to read it as an ARC. Having never heard of this author but reading the blurb which interested me I wondered what I would find. New authors sometimes scare me, I know they rely on getting good reviews, and I know, in myself, I have to be honest.
I opened this book to start reading, by the time I got to the 10th page I knew I was hooked, by the time I got to 37% I was so engrossed it the story that I lost all track of time.
I emailed SJ Molloy to tell her. She says she gets nervous when her book went out 'out there' in the hands of other peoples, I understand that a lot having read alongside Indie authors for a while now. Putting that aside I cannot allow it to sway me from the actual book and story telling though.
My email told her I LOVED it, I really did love this book.
The flashbacks that Lexi got even in moments of tenderness what heart wrenching. The dialogue was great in the book, kept me really entertained between the girls before she left for a trip. Very entertaining characters, very real life like people. Lexi has a lot to contend with from her past, awful things. And every now and again throughout the book we took a glance of some of her sufferings when being brought up and about her mother and brother. It was glimpses that made me continue to read, always wondering when the full story would be revealed.
If I had any downfall in this book, it was to say that Lucca is just a little too perfect.
The book leaves you with a cliff hanger. It goes slightly into the next read, so now, I am hanging on the edge of my seat wondering ......what next!!!! I really NEED the next book.
SJ, if you are reading this, I NEED IT!!!
I opened this book to start reading, by the time I got to the 10th page I knew I was hooked, by the time I got to 37% I was so engrossed it the story that I lost all track of time.
I emailed SJ Molloy to tell her. She says she gets nervous when her book went out 'out there' in the hands of other peoples, I understand that a lot having read alongside Indie authors for a while now. Putting that aside I cannot allow it to sway me from the actual book and story telling though.
My email told her I LOVED it, I really did love this book.
The flashbacks that Lexi got even in moments of tenderness what heart wrenching. The dialogue was great in the book, kept me really entertained between the girls before she left for a trip. Very entertaining characters, very real life like people. Lexi has a lot to contend with from her past, awful things. And every now and again throughout the book we took a glance of some of her sufferings when being brought up and about her mother and brother. It was glimpses that made me continue to read, always wondering when the full story would be revealed.
If I had any downfall in this book, it was to say that Lucca is just a little too perfect.
The book leaves you with a cliff hanger. It goes slightly into the next read, so now, I am hanging on the edge of my seat wondering ......what next!!!! I really NEED the next book.
SJ, if you are reading this, I NEED IT!!!
January 14, 2014
I received a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This story takes us on the journey of a survivor: Alexis Evangeline Robertson had a very dark and troubled past. Quite gruesome at times. This first book in the series is all about Alexis and how she's going on this culinary course in Italy with her best friend. It's funny because she ends up not only treating one of her patients, but also having the opportunity of running into him in Italy. He's the delectable Lucca Caruso. He's got his own issues that he needs to take care of.
This first book gives us a bit of background information to give the reader a sort of understanding about the main character's attitudes and personalities. The end leaves us with a super ominous third party look at what's to come with the next book(s).
Overall, it was a good first attempt at a novel let alone a Series. I did have a few qualms about this book. At times, I found Alexis's reactions to events around her to be a bit too dramatic. Not only that but I also found the book to drag a bit. I was able to get through it but it took a lot for me to really finish it. There's a good chance that had it not been an ARC book that I would have made this a DNF book. So with those comments I'm giving this 3.5 STARS out of 5 STARS. This book is going to be very suspenseful with the next books to come.e
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Read by Taryn Lee on December 28, 2013
Reviewed by Taryn Lee on January 8, 2013
http://facebook.com/tarynleesblog
This story takes us on the journey of a survivor: Alexis Evangeline Robertson had a very dark and troubled past. Quite gruesome at times. This first book in the series is all about Alexis and how she's going on this culinary course in Italy with her best friend. It's funny because she ends up not only treating one of her patients, but also having the opportunity of running into him in Italy. He's the delectable Lucca Caruso. He's got his own issues that he needs to take care of.
This first book gives us a bit of background information to give the reader a sort of understanding about the main character's attitudes and personalities. The end leaves us with a super ominous third party look at what's to come with the next book(s).
Overall, it was a good first attempt at a novel let alone a Series. I did have a few qualms about this book. At times, I found Alexis's reactions to events around her to be a bit too dramatic. Not only that but I also found the book to drag a bit. I was able to get through it but it took a lot for me to really finish it. There's a good chance that had it not been an ARC book that I would have made this a DNF book. So with those comments I'm giving this 3.5 STARS out of 5 STARS. This book is going to be very suspenseful with the next books to come.e
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Read by Taryn Lee on December 28, 2013
Reviewed by Taryn Lee on January 8, 2013
http://facebook.com/tarynleesblog
March 10, 2016
This is the first book that I have read by SJ Molloy, and I have to say that I have loved Lussuria. If I could give this book 10 stars, then I would. Lexi and Lucca have crossed paths before in their therapists office. They were bothe mesmerized by one another but Lexi was shy and reserved from her abuse as a child.
A couple of years later when Lexi opens her clinic in a gym, she gets her first client before they officially open...Lucca stops by with a soar back and asks for her help. She was mesmerized with him again, but neither of them knew where they had seen each other before. Pedi brushed Lucca off and set off on holiday with her friend to Italy.
Their first night there they go down for dinner and to Lwxi's horror there stands Lucca. She runs out panicking thinking he is stalking her...it turns out the resort they are stating in belongs to his grand parents.
Lexi and Lucca get to know one another in Italy. For the first time in her life she shuts out the abuse and lets another man touch her. The love and passion that they share is beautiful. They both have a past but Lucca does everything to get Lexi to relax.
They have many ups and downs, but before they return to Scotland, Lucca asks Lexi to marry him...of course she says yes.
The end of this books leaves us thinking that Lexi's past is going to come back and haunt her. I look forward to starting book 2 now.
A couple of years later when Lexi opens her clinic in a gym, she gets her first client before they officially open...Lucca stops by with a soar back and asks for her help. She was mesmerized with him again, but neither of them knew where they had seen each other before. Pedi brushed Lucca off and set off on holiday with her friend to Italy.
Their first night there they go down for dinner and to Lwxi's horror there stands Lucca. She runs out panicking thinking he is stalking her...it turns out the resort they are stating in belongs to his grand parents.
Lexi and Lucca get to know one another in Italy. For the first time in her life she shuts out the abuse and lets another man touch her. The love and passion that they share is beautiful. They both have a past but Lucca does everything to get Lexi to relax.
They have many ups and downs, but before they return to Scotland, Lucca asks Lexi to marry him...of course she says yes.
The end of this books leaves us thinking that Lexi's past is going to come back and haunt her. I look forward to starting book 2 now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2014
***I received this complimentary book by the author for an honest review***
Oh my heart breaks for Lexi! Growing up with a horrible past but living and moving on.Lucca Caruso such a hottie... Italian AND Scottish?! I just squealed for thinking about how his accent is. Me oh my what beautiful characters you wrote about. You must start This first book of the Luminaria series! I waited for ever to read and I am so lucky and glad I am part of this tour! I am excited to see how Lexi progresses in L'amore, book 2 in the series! YOU must start This book ASAP ! 5 stars!~Chris
Oh my heart breaks for Lexi! Growing up with a horrible past but living and moving on.Lucca Caruso such a hottie... Italian AND Scottish?! I just squealed for thinking about how his accent is. Me oh my what beautiful characters you wrote about. You must start This first book of the Luminaria series! I waited for ever to read and I am so lucky and glad I am part of this tour! I am excited to see how Lexi progresses in L'amore, book 2 in the series! YOU must start This book ASAP ! 5 stars!~Chris
September 5, 2016
This is the first book I have read of SJ Molloy and WOW was is fantastic! A love story so powerful and intense I could not put it down.
The story of Lexi who has a traumatic past and believes she cannot trust and have a loving relationship with a partner. Lucca, sexy hot Italian millionaire who tries to set out to help her trust and love.
It is beautifully written, descriptive and full of emotion.
Cannot wait to read the rest of the series. Thank you.
The story of Lexi who has a traumatic past and believes she cannot trust and have a loving relationship with a partner. Lucca, sexy hot Italian millionaire who tries to set out to help her trust and love.
It is beautifully written, descriptive and full of emotion.
Cannot wait to read the rest of the series. Thank you.
December 26, 2013
This book is a must read from me to you! I experienced every emotion in this book from complete frustration, suspense, arousal and ugly crying. SJ did an excellent job with reseach and her descriptions, had me feeling like I was there in that moment. I absolutely can't wait for the next book and thank you, dolcezza, for the experience!
June 3, 2017
3.7
The story is off the charts for a series intro - great writing - strong theme
Emotional - Gritty - Suspenseful - Everything I like in a strong story
This does end on a cliffhanger and is part of a series that follows both our H and h
I received a free copy of this book and chose to leave a voluntary review
The story is off the charts for a series intro - great writing - strong theme
Emotional - Gritty - Suspenseful - Everything I like in a strong story
This does end on a cliffhanger and is part of a series that follows both our H and h
I received a free copy of this book and chose to leave a voluntary review
February 14, 2015
I read this book in a day. Loved it what a mesmerising story of a torturted soul learning how to trust and love so completely. I can't wait to get stuck into book 2
January 31, 2016
Great emotional story. Fab journey of self-discovery for Lexi with the help of a sexy Italian.
December 27, 2017
So this is my first experience of SJ Molloy and wow is she an amazing wordsmith! This story is so in-depth, descriptive and the characters are so flawed that they can't help but seem so real. SJ Molloy has worked to capture her readers in such a sensory world of the five senses that at times you feel as if you are an actual player in the story.
Alexa (Lexa) is a fragile shell of a woman who is battling her childhood demons the best way she knows how. This leaves her fearful and distrusting of many except her core few and this has her in such a state of confusion that things aren't always as they seem!
Don't get me wrong, there is light along with the dark in this book and although some may find it slightly off putting with what SJ has her characters experiencing, she has managed to deal with this is quite a sensitive way that despite all the hurt, pain and despair, there is light at the end of the tunnel for both Lexa and Lucca in the relationship they form. Luca himself is far from perfect and his own pain is also evident throughout this interesting story! The sex scenes between these two are also scorching so be ware....may not be for public consumption!!!
This book certainly sets the scene for what I am sure is going to be much more of a bumpy ride. I loved all of the characters SJ introduced us too and many provided the light needed while the intensity of Lexa and Luca began to take hold. Luca's family are so welcoming and open, you fall in love with them instantly. Lexa's friend Hazel provides the security for her but also, the light hearted and at times extremely funny relief required in the book, while her brother Cameron is the support always there but I feel may yet have more to reveal himself!
This is a beautiful tale around some very dark and bleak past events.....it seems SJ has set us the grounding we may need as future books take us on a journey through some much more dramatic and darker times ahead!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reading Copy of this book.
Alexa (Lexa) is a fragile shell of a woman who is battling her childhood demons the best way she knows how. This leaves her fearful and distrusting of many except her core few and this has her in such a state of confusion that things aren't always as they seem!
Don't get me wrong, there is light along with the dark in this book and although some may find it slightly off putting with what SJ has her characters experiencing, she has managed to deal with this is quite a sensitive way that despite all the hurt, pain and despair, there is light at the end of the tunnel for both Lexa and Lucca in the relationship they form. Luca himself is far from perfect and his own pain is also evident throughout this interesting story! The sex scenes between these two are also scorching so be ware....may not be for public consumption!!!
This book certainly sets the scene for what I am sure is going to be much more of a bumpy ride. I loved all of the characters SJ introduced us too and many provided the light needed while the intensity of Lexa and Luca began to take hold. Luca's family are so welcoming and open, you fall in love with them instantly. Lexa's friend Hazel provides the security for her but also, the light hearted and at times extremely funny relief required in the book, while her brother Cameron is the support always there but I feel may yet have more to reveal himself!
This is a beautiful tale around some very dark and bleak past events.....it seems SJ has set us the grounding we may need as future books take us on a journey through some much more dramatic and darker times ahead!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reading Copy of this book.
June 15, 2017
My Review of Lussuria (Luminara #1)
by S.J. Molloy
My Rating 4 Stars
New Author for me and a new series, makes this gal happy!
Lexi, is a very strong and vulnerable heroine and she has a tragic past which makes it difficult for her trust and move on. Lexi’s story is one of raw emotion, that grabs you and takes you on a journey. Lucca, sexy alpha hot Italian millionaire who always gets what he wants. (don’t they all) Will Lucca help Lexi get through her past and learn to love again and trust that it’s real? This was a great read, very well written and it works at grabbing your heartstrings along with a fan for all the sexy that is wrapped up within these pages. This book did take me a couple of chapters before I honestly couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait to delve into the next installment of the Luminara Series!!
** I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of his book in exchange for an honest review from Author & Debra @Buoni Amici Press**
by S.J. Molloy
My Rating 4 Stars
New Author for me and a new series, makes this gal happy!
Lexi, is a very strong and vulnerable heroine and she has a tragic past which makes it difficult for her trust and move on. Lexi’s story is one of raw emotion, that grabs you and takes you on a journey. Lucca, sexy alpha hot Italian millionaire who always gets what he wants. (don’t they all) Will Lucca help Lexi get through her past and learn to love again and trust that it’s real? This was a great read, very well written and it works at grabbing your heartstrings along with a fan for all the sexy that is wrapped up within these pages. This book did take me a couple of chapters before I honestly couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait to delve into the next installment of the Luminara Series!!
** I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of his book in exchange for an honest review from Author & Debra @Buoni Amici Press**
June 30, 2021
Lexi came from a very different and abusive background and had trust issues along with anxiety attacks. Lucca had issues from his past also. But when Lucca first met Lexi he knew that they were meant to be together, he just had to convince her of that fact. As Lucca showed his persistence, their interesting romance began as demons from their pasts were confronted and family and friends became involved as well as all the emotional trauma that Lexi and her family went through was brought to light and Lucca’s loss also, the strain was tremendous at times but the bond that Lexi and Lucca were making was strong. Can’t wait for the next read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2017
This was a good story with a thought-out and developed plot with character backgrounds. There were plenty of ups and downs and sex scenes to keep the reader engaged. I found some of the scenes over-the-top, but, since this is fiction, a little embellishment should be expected.
I will continue the series to get the final ending. Hopefully more info from the past is divulged as the story progresses.
I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I will continue the series to get the final ending. Hopefully more info from the past is divulged as the story progresses.
I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2017
This story goes through a full range of emotions. Everything from gut-wrenching to erotic, it has it all. Lexi's story begins in despair and has ended in the light in this book. She is a very strong young woman. It has just taken her a long time to find herself. Lucca is an Italian god, with the heart of gold. He has had to fight his own demons in the past and is better for it. Can they survive in the light? I voluntarily reviewed this ARC.
April 28, 2021
I enjoyed this novel by S.J. Molloy. The novel really touched onto some dark and intense topics. The subject of abuse and how recovering from it can be intense and take time. The story of Lucca and Lexi proves that out of darkness light can come. Lexi’s journey to discovering love was intense and full of many twists and turns. S.J. Molloy writes with passion, and I don’t think that her stories are for the faint of heart. It is an interesting read and I look forward to continuing the journey in future installments.
April 28, 2021
This is the first book I read from this author and let me tell you that I loved it! Such a good book with great characters that keeps you obsessed with every page since the first one. The ending of this book.. come on! I just didn´t expect it! Can´t wait to read other books from this great writer! Amazing job! a must-read! A fantastic book that has it all! I happily endorse this story to any and all who are looking for a mystery enjoyable read and a completely different experience than anyone could imagine on their own. ¡Great book!
May 20, 2021
An interesting story starts this story off with a bang. The world is very imaginative. The characters are engaging as was the storyline. I enjoyed reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2018
Lussuria was recommended to me by a friend and I found it an enjoyable read. It does have sensitive material that may be a trigger for some people. The h has been through a lot of trauma and she is clearly still on a journey of healing. Lexi meets Lucca who rides in trying to be her knight in shining armor. The couple has passion and love that leaps off the pages. This book does contain a heavier amount of sex but I didn’t think it detracted from the plot. I’m looking forward to reading the sequel to get some more of my questions answered. It does move a bit slower, however, it does help to show how much time is passing during the courting and this book. I recommend this book to fans of romance with some steam and drama.
May 13, 2021
Oh my goodness. This book has it all. Definitely want to be gentle if you are a person with triggers, otherwise it was so well worth the read.
August 4, 2018
Intense. Emotional. Draining. It had a darkness to it that came from Lexi's past. I was equal parts frustrated and equal parts couldn't put this book down. I wanted these to get their HEA but knew they had to come out of the darkness together. I loved witnessing Lexi come out of her shell and find herself and her confidence. This was an incredible read.
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