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The Kingdom #1
Holding Aces
Tired of running, Arianna Fraser decides it's time to head home--to those she loves most. Finally putting the pieces of her life back together, she finds herself in the luxurious Kingdom in Vegas, meeting the wealthy and irresistible, Denham King.
And Denham King is everything she wants--and shouldn't have. Adding vibrancy and color to her grey and dismal world, Arianna cannot resist the passion and pull she has for him. When her past comes back with a vengeance, threatening the new life she created, Denham and Arianna must trust each other to fight for what they want before it's too late. Will the kingdom come crumbling down before they have a chance to get their "happily ever after?”
Holding Aces is part one of a two part Adult Contemporary Romance series that contains mature sexual content and language and is not intended for readers under the age of 18. Please note: This is not a dark romance.
And Denham King is everything she wants--and shouldn't have. Adding vibrancy and color to her grey and dismal world, Arianna cannot resist the passion and pull she has for him. When her past comes back with a vengeance, threatening the new life she created, Denham and Arianna must trust each other to fight for what they want before it's too late. Will the kingdom come crumbling down before they have a chance to get their "happily ever after?”
Holding Aces is part one of a two part Adult Contemporary Romance series that contains mature sexual content and language and is not intended for readers under the age of 18. Please note: This is not a dark romance.
Unknown Binding
First published May 27, 2014
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June 17, 2014
Title: Holding Aces
Series: The Kingdom #1
Author: Nikki Groom
Release Date: May, 2014
Rating: 3.5 stars
Cliffhanger:. Yes
HEA:
With very interesting premise, gorgeous cover and promise of fast paced steamy romance, Holding Aces seemed to be ideal read just for me. I was very thrilled to crack this story open and meet the main characters. I really wanted to be blew away by it and I kept all of my fingers crossed till the end.
Holding Aces is debut novel by Nikki Groom, yet the writing was really mature and easy to follow. The plot had more than few surprising twists and turns and I was biting my nails through some of the situations. Unfortunately there were few things that didn’t sit well with me. Still, though the story had amazing potential, and maybe it was used only in about 70% but overall I liked this novel and will read more.
The Kingdom series is about Arianna. She’s a young woman on the run from her terrible past and a monster who had turned her life in hell, and her husband who turned out to be just as abusive as her first. Now, she’s hiding in high-class hotel called The Kingdom, where she meets Denham King.
Denham is powerful man and the owner of the hotel she decided to stay. What’s more, this man wants her… badly. While both of them enjoy their steamy romance, Arianna lives with fear what tomorrow will bring.
Firstly, Denham and Arianna together? Fucking HOT! Sparks flew everywhere. They just lighted up my panties on fire. On the other hand, I felt like the connection between them was too quick and rushed. I wanted a little bit more of romance built up; besides, I have found it weird and very unrealistic, that the main character would jump straight into another relationship after just ending her marriage to complete asshole and still hiding from the monster in her past. I also rolled my eyes quite a few times, when I read how cheesy and unoriginal some of the conversation Arianna and Denham have had.
My other issue was the big cliffhanger ending…I really wanted to punch someone close to me for making me feel so frustrated.
While some things worked pretty great, others not so much, still though I had fun. I found Holding Aces interesting and quite captivating read. There was angst and dirty love, lots of troubles and sexy times, so it felt good to read. I won’t lie, I expected a tiny bit more. I had higher expectations, that weren’t meet in every way, but Holding Aces was definitely worth reading! I’m not regretting reaching for it and I can’t wait for more by this author.
* Review Copy provided by the author in exchange for a honest review *
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July 28, 2014
ARC generously provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 just call me Trouble, Stars.
Ari hasn't had the best luck when it comes to choosing men. Already hiding from one man that nearly broke her, Ari finds herself facing the same demons as before - this one just doesn't know who she really is. This time she's not going to wait around to hear the apologies, fleeing the life that was suppose to be her escape leads her down a completely unexpected path. Vegas was supposed to be the place she would escape to, to deal with her life - to straighten out the mess, so she could return to the girl that she used to be, the one that she gave up. But then she meets him.
Denham has a busy life, running the Luxurious Hotel & Casino, The Kingdom but time stands still the moment that a beautiful and broken women crashes into him. He can see the life that lingers just beneath the surface, the one that is buried under all the hurt and for reasons he can't explain or deny, he wants to set that beauty free.
Denham's fierce need to protect and care for Ari should cause her red flags, but she knows she can trust this man. Although her feelings may scare her, the is no doubt that she is safe with him. But Ari's past is complicated and it's not just as easy as wanting to start over or moving on, especially when the past isn't quite ready to let you go.
I found myself at the start of this wanting to reach into the book and shake Ari just a bit. Then I immediately felt guilty, this girl has not had an easy life. But I had trouble really feeling overly distraught or bad for her, it took just a bit of time to warm up to her. But eventually that came when she met Denham and a bit of boldness escaped her. The battle for her to want to be happy and move on with her life, yet still face the past left me seeing her as a bit too timid at times, but after allowing Denham in just a bit more, she became less timid and stood a bit taller - that was a major plus for me. I don't mind broken heroines, but it is very difficult for me at times to balance the feelings of compassion and annoyance when it comes to them. Ari kind of fell in the middle overall for me.
Denham was a little unexpected. With the lifestyle and the career I was expecting the typical playboy that finally finds a girl that holds his attention for more than a few seconds, but I got something completely different. No doubt that Mr. King has played the field, but there was something so caring and sweet about him, that it just felt like he was to his bones a decent guy. It's rare to find that kind of Hero in the number of contemporary romances out there. Although a broken boy can make me weak in the knees and an outright asshole can cause my panties to drop, sweet worked just perfectly this time for me as well. A complete white knight complex going on in that beautiful head of his.
Although this story has a lot to do with the kind of past that Ari had, I loved that the focus did not stay on that part of the story. The connection between these two and their journey was in the forefront of the story, which ensured that the story itself didn't stall on the issues of the past. Nikki gives delivers a great debut novel that kept a good pace and caught my attention enough to make me want to know what happens next.
3.5 just call me Trouble, Stars.
Ari hasn't had the best luck when it comes to choosing men. Already hiding from one man that nearly broke her, Ari finds herself facing the same demons as before - this one just doesn't know who she really is. This time she's not going to wait around to hear the apologies, fleeing the life that was suppose to be her escape leads her down a completely unexpected path. Vegas was supposed to be the place she would escape to, to deal with her life - to straighten out the mess, so she could return to the girl that she used to be, the one that she gave up. But then she meets him.
Denham has a busy life, running the Luxurious Hotel & Casino, The Kingdom but time stands still the moment that a beautiful and broken women crashes into him. He can see the life that lingers just beneath the surface, the one that is buried under all the hurt and for reasons he can't explain or deny, he wants to set that beauty free.
Denham's fierce need to protect and care for Ari should cause her red flags, but she knows she can trust this man. Although her feelings may scare her, the is no doubt that she is safe with him. But Ari's past is complicated and it's not just as easy as wanting to start over or moving on, especially when the past isn't quite ready to let you go.
I found myself at the start of this wanting to reach into the book and shake Ari just a bit. Then I immediately felt guilty, this girl has not had an easy life. But I had trouble really feeling overly distraught or bad for her, it took just a bit of time to warm up to her. But eventually that came when she met Denham and a bit of boldness escaped her. The battle for her to want to be happy and move on with her life, yet still face the past left me seeing her as a bit too timid at times, but after allowing Denham in just a bit more, she became less timid and stood a bit taller - that was a major plus for me. I don't mind broken heroines, but it is very difficult for me at times to balance the feelings of compassion and annoyance when it comes to them. Ari kind of fell in the middle overall for me.
Denham was a little unexpected. With the lifestyle and the career I was expecting the typical playboy that finally finds a girl that holds his attention for more than a few seconds, but I got something completely different. No doubt that Mr. King has played the field, but there was something so caring and sweet about him, that it just felt like he was to his bones a decent guy. It's rare to find that kind of Hero in the number of contemporary romances out there. Although a broken boy can make me weak in the knees and an outright asshole can cause my panties to drop, sweet worked just perfectly this time for me as well. A complete white knight complex going on in that beautiful head of his.
Although this story has a lot to do with the kind of past that Ari had, I loved that the focus did not stay on that part of the story. The connection between these two and their journey was in the forefront of the story, which ensured that the story itself didn't stall on the issues of the past. Nikki gives delivers a great debut novel that kept a good pace and caught my attention enough to make me want to know what happens next.
May 22, 2014
**ARC provided for an honest review**
Title: Holding Aces
Series:The Kingdom #1
Author: Nikki Groom
Release Date: May 29, 2014
Rating:3 stars
Cliffhanger:Yes
HEA:
Holding Aces is the first book in Nikki Groom's Kingdom series. This is also her debut novel and for her first shot out, I think she did a great job. The writing was there. The story was presented in a way that captured my interest and kept me reading at a steady pace until the end. So why only three stars? My personal preferences. There were a couple things that bothered me but I'll get to that in a bit.
Arianna (Natalie) is a woman trying to escape a life of abuse. First from her fiance who put her in the hospital, and then another man who she married with a false name while on the run. Her husband she's just run from in the middle of the night after he hit her for the first time. Somehow, she subconsciously gravitated toward another abusive situation which really does happen in real life. For whatever reason, she's somehow found another guy that's no good for her and she's decided that's her cue to hit the road. I liked that at the first sign of abuse she made up her mind that she wasn't going to be a victim and took action to get safe. She was beaten but not broken. She was a fighter and a survivor.
Arianna escapes to Vegas. She wants to reconnect with her old life. The life she lost when she ran from her fiance. She left behind her best friend and her mother who she's had no contact with for years and now she's ready to take back control and see her loved ones again. Her best friend connects her with a place to stay. Her boyfriend's brother's hotel. It's an elegant, high end place with a casino and shops called The Kingdom. And who's king of this castle? Denham King, entrepeneur, and one sexy and powerful guy with a protective side. They bump into each other and right away he starts showing up wherever she is and tempting her to stray from her plan for solitary time to get her life on track again. The absolute last thing she wants is to get involved with man. She's homeless, jobless, and has no clue where to go from here.
In the few encounters we have had, Denham King sends my mind into a spin, but he also makes me feel alive in my soul, and I'm not sure I've ever felt that before. The mix of emotions is not productive to finding the solutions to my current problems.
But Denham is a take charge kind of guy and isn't taking her weak protests at his help at face value. The bruise on her cheek and the emptiness in her eyes makes him want to right everything wrong in her world.
She consistently pushes him away-she's a screwed up mess and he seems like a good guy. She doesn't want to bring her problems on his doorstep but this gorgeous girl's got a hold of him and affects him like no one else. She's worth the risk and he's not going to change his mind.
"I'm not lucky. I'm trouble," I whisper. he gently grips my chin between his thumb and forefinger and tilts my head so I'm looking up at him. "Well, in that case, I like your kind of trouble."
Denham treats her like a princess. A penthouse suite next to his to keep her safe, a spa day and makeover, clothing, a job doing something she loves, bringing her loved ones to see her, he just wants her happy and protected. Not only that, but he stirs a passion in her that she's never felt. He's like a whirlwind whipping through her life and she's feeling stunned and unwillingly pulled into his world. Very quickly, she sees she just can't stay away from him.
This is where my issues lie. Personally, I thought that after all she's been through, with two different abusive men, she jumped right into another relationship in a matter of days with a guy that she doesn't know a lot about. Yes, he seems perfect but then, so did the other guys at first. How is she so trusting? I needed to see her trust built over more time. It made me feel like she was too reckless and impulsive. In fact, HE was the one trying to make her slow down and not sleep together to make sure she knew what she was doing. This didn't work for me.
Once they did give in to their urges, the natural chemistry made for some enjoyably steamy moments. Denham is a guy that knows what he wants, knows what he likes, and knows how to give her everything she needs. Totally in control and commanding everything she had.
I needed more build up of their intense feelings and rush into romance, especially because of her history of abusive relationships. Although I did still enjoy much of the book. After the horrible cliffhanger at the end, I suggest waiting for book 2 for those of you who like to avoid them. It was a big one and I was less than happy with that considering there's no information out on the next book. Despite my issues, I will still be reading the conclusion.
♫I'll be the Queen of your heart, Dear
You'll be the King of my love
I'll deal through that whole deck to find you
And You'll wait for my time to come.
I tossed off my cardhouse costumery
I slipped on my sweet cotton dress
You're king of our house here my darling
No turn of a cardhand can wreck.
You're king of my big sunny smile now
You're king of my red rosy cheeks
I'm queen of this cradle that rocks here
No joker can steal me away.“♫
~King of my Love/Jonatha Brooke
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Title: Holding Aces
Series:The Kingdom #1
Author: Nikki Groom
Release Date: May 29, 2014
Rating:3 stars
Cliffhanger:Yes
HEA:
Holding Aces is the first book in Nikki Groom's Kingdom series. This is also her debut novel and for her first shot out, I think she did a great job. The writing was there. The story was presented in a way that captured my interest and kept me reading at a steady pace until the end. So why only three stars? My personal preferences. There were a couple things that bothered me but I'll get to that in a bit.
Arianna (Natalie) is a woman trying to escape a life of abuse. First from her fiance who put her in the hospital, and then another man who she married with a false name while on the run. Her husband she's just run from in the middle of the night after he hit her for the first time. Somehow, she subconsciously gravitated toward another abusive situation which really does happen in real life. For whatever reason, she's somehow found another guy that's no good for her and she's decided that's her cue to hit the road. I liked that at the first sign of abuse she made up her mind that she wasn't going to be a victim and took action to get safe. She was beaten but not broken. She was a fighter and a survivor.
Arianna escapes to Vegas. She wants to reconnect with her old life. The life she lost when she ran from her fiance. She left behind her best friend and her mother who she's had no contact with for years and now she's ready to take back control and see her loved ones again. Her best friend connects her with a place to stay. Her boyfriend's brother's hotel. It's an elegant, high end place with a casino and shops called The Kingdom. And who's king of this castle? Denham King, entrepeneur, and one sexy and powerful guy with a protective side. They bump into each other and right away he starts showing up wherever she is and tempting her to stray from her plan for solitary time to get her life on track again. The absolute last thing she wants is to get involved with man. She's homeless, jobless, and has no clue where to go from here.
In the few encounters we have had, Denham King sends my mind into a spin, but he also makes me feel alive in my soul, and I'm not sure I've ever felt that before. The mix of emotions is not productive to finding the solutions to my current problems.
But Denham is a take charge kind of guy and isn't taking her weak protests at his help at face value. The bruise on her cheek and the emptiness in her eyes makes him want to right everything wrong in her world.
She consistently pushes him away-she's a screwed up mess and he seems like a good guy. She doesn't want to bring her problems on his doorstep but this gorgeous girl's got a hold of him and affects him like no one else. She's worth the risk and he's not going to change his mind.
"I'm not lucky. I'm trouble," I whisper. he gently grips my chin between his thumb and forefinger and tilts my head so I'm looking up at him. "Well, in that case, I like your kind of trouble."
Denham treats her like a princess. A penthouse suite next to his to keep her safe, a spa day and makeover, clothing, a job doing something she loves, bringing her loved ones to see her, he just wants her happy and protected. Not only that, but he stirs a passion in her that she's never felt. He's like a whirlwind whipping through her life and she's feeling stunned and unwillingly pulled into his world. Very quickly, she sees she just can't stay away from him.
This is where my issues lie. Personally, I thought that after all she's been through, with two different abusive men, she jumped right into another relationship in a matter of days with a guy that she doesn't know a lot about. Yes, he seems perfect but then, so did the other guys at first. How is she so trusting? I needed to see her trust built over more time. It made me feel like she was too reckless and impulsive. In fact, HE was the one trying to make her slow down and not sleep together to make sure she knew what she was doing. This didn't work for me.
Once they did give in to their urges, the natural chemistry made for some enjoyably steamy moments. Denham is a guy that knows what he wants, knows what he likes, and knows how to give her everything she needs. Totally in control and commanding everything she had.
I needed more build up of their intense feelings and rush into romance, especially because of her history of abusive relationships. Although I did still enjoy much of the book. After the horrible cliffhanger at the end, I suggest waiting for book 2 for those of you who like to avoid them. It was a big one and I was less than happy with that considering there's no information out on the next book. Despite my issues, I will still be reading the conclusion.
♫I'll be the Queen of your heart, Dear
You'll be the King of my love
I'll deal through that whole deck to find you
And You'll wait for my time to come.
I tossed off my cardhouse costumery
I slipped on my sweet cotton dress
You're king of our house here my darling
No turn of a cardhand can wreck.
You're king of my big sunny smile now
You're king of my red rosy cheeks
I'm queen of this cradle that rocks here
No joker can steal me away.“♫
~King of my Love/Jonatha Brooke
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April 13, 2015
Arianna (Ari) seems to always pick the wrong guy. Her history of choosing men usually ends up in domestic violence. Her first fiancé left her in the hospital. After her husband hit her, she decides she's not going to stick around to wait on things to turn worse, so she runs to Las Vegas.
Denham King runs The Kingdom, a luxury casino/hotel. After running into Ari in his hotel, he's just as instantly drawn to her as she is to him. Even though they've just met, Denham sees it as his responsibility to try to protect her. Ari is not so sure that she's ready to start another relationship, but can't seem to stay away form him.
"We have something Ari. I don't know what it is, but there's something."
Denham decides to take things slow with her. Things quickly heat up between these two. Just as things seem to be turning around for Ari in the love department, we are left with a cliffhanger. I have to say that there was a bit of insta love between these two that made it a little hard to connect with them, but I'm dying to find out what's going to happen next? I will be picking up book 2, High Stakes when it comes out in the fall.
*ARC received by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
August 6, 2016
"We have something Ari. I don't know what it is, but there's something. Everything is different with you, and I don't intend to let that go. When I see that sparkle in your eye, and it's coming in my direction, I feel like I'm holding all the aces."
Holding Aces was a lovely read that has its potential to being a substantial duology.
Arianna is a girl running from her past and two abusive and troubled exes: one being her well connected ex boyfriend and the latter being her husband. Both of whom are very bad news and reasons of which she goes on the run and finds herself in hiding at posh hotel, The Kingdom, to start over try to make herself anew.
While there, she bumps into Denham King, the owner of the hotel and brother of her bestie's boyfriend, and the sparks are off the charts!
Only, Arianna isn't so sure about getting involved with this handsome, powerful, overprotective, and oozing with sex mogul. She hadn't exactly had a great history with men after all.
But when Denham makes it clear that he will wait and do whatever it takes to make her his, will she cave and give into something perhaps more? Will old wounds from her past heal? And what of her exes? With them still in the mix, will they threaten everything everything that Arianna has worked so hard to leave behind? Or tear everything apart? Read and you will find out!
My thoughts: Without doubt, I will be staying tuned for part two, the conclusion, of this delectable series!! It was fast, easy, and very steamy!!
I swear, Ms. Groom had me panting from sexual tension and frustration all the way to giddiness and satisfaction for when they FINALLY did 'the deed.' Hallelujah!!
As for setbacks...well, my primary quarries with this story were the "snaggy" pacing at times, the overly cheesy dialogues between Denham and Arianna; and then, the actions of the characters seeming too fairytale like that in books and movies. Add to that, I honestly felt that Denham and Arianna's relationship evolved too fast for my taste. While I did appreciate them waiting for a while before sleeping together, their emotional connection developed too fast my liking. I mean, Arianna comes from abusive previous partners and while I still can see her struggling with this in the story, I don't know, maybe she should have taken her relationship with Denham just a tad bit slower? But maybe that's just me.
As for Denham, I liked him, I did. I just was kind of confused with this insta-love he develops for Arianna. As one of the most eligible and wanted bachelors in Las Vegas, you would think that even with the immense attraction for Arianna that he'd still be cautious and not lay down all of his cards right away for this one girl that he's just met (and that apparently has some major unresolved issues).
"She's the most captivating woman I've ever seen, and yes, thats definitely the fastest reaction I've ever had to anyone. I want more. F#ck me, do I want more. I want my name to roll from her tongue in both a whisper and a scream. I want to light a fire to her wounded eyes."
[Reviewer's note to Denham]: I mean seriously dude, you only just met this girl and you're going all gungho on her..baggage and all... I just hope you knowing what you're doing! It's your life, your business, your reputation, and credibility on the line...Just saying.[/End of Reviewer's Note]
Over all though, a very nice debut and I will definitely be hanging on to see what comes next!! That cliffhanger at the end killed me!! *gah!!*
Great job Nikki!!
*I received an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!*
Holding Aces was a lovely read that has its potential to being a substantial duology.
Arianna is a girl running from her past and two abusive and troubled exes: one being her well connected ex boyfriend and the latter being her husband. Both of whom are very bad news and reasons of which she goes on the run and finds herself in hiding at posh hotel, The Kingdom, to start over try to make herself anew.
While there, she bumps into Denham King, the owner of the hotel and brother of her bestie's boyfriend, and the sparks are off the charts!
Only, Arianna isn't so sure about getting involved with this handsome, powerful, overprotective, and oozing with sex mogul. She hadn't exactly had a great history with men after all.
But when Denham makes it clear that he will wait and do whatever it takes to make her his, will she cave and give into something perhaps more? Will old wounds from her past heal? And what of her exes? With them still in the mix, will they threaten everything everything that Arianna has worked so hard to leave behind? Or tear everything apart? Read and you will find out!
My thoughts: Without doubt, I will be staying tuned for part two, the conclusion, of this delectable series!! It was fast, easy, and very steamy!!
I swear, Ms. Groom had me panting from sexual tension and frustration all the way to giddiness and satisfaction for when they FINALLY did 'the deed.' Hallelujah!!
As for setbacks...well, my primary quarries with this story were the "snaggy" pacing at times, the overly cheesy dialogues between Denham and Arianna; and then, the actions of the characters seeming too fairytale like that in books and movies. Add to that, I honestly felt that Denham and Arianna's relationship evolved too fast for my taste. While I did appreciate them waiting for a while before sleeping together, their emotional connection developed too fast my liking. I mean, Arianna comes from abusive previous partners and while I still can see her struggling with this in the story, I don't know, maybe she should have taken her relationship with Denham just a tad bit slower? But maybe that's just me.
As for Denham, I liked him, I did. I just was kind of confused with this insta-love he develops for Arianna. As one of the most eligible and wanted bachelors in Las Vegas, you would think that even with the immense attraction for Arianna that he'd still be cautious and not lay down all of his cards right away for this one girl that he's just met (and that apparently has some major unresolved issues).
"She's the most captivating woman I've ever seen, and yes, thats definitely the fastest reaction I've ever had to anyone. I want more. F#ck me, do I want more. I want my name to roll from her tongue in both a whisper and a scream. I want to light a fire to her wounded eyes."
[Reviewer's note to Denham]: I mean seriously dude, you only just met this girl and you're going all gungho on her..baggage and all... I just hope you knowing what you're doing! It's your life, your business, your reputation, and credibility on the line...Just saying.[/End of Reviewer's Note]
Over all though, a very nice debut and I will definitely be hanging on to see what comes next!! That cliffhanger at the end killed me!! *gah!!*
Great job Nikki!!
*I received an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!*
July 25, 2014
A girl on the run. An abusive ex and a farce of a marriage left in her wake. High stakes hands, lucky turns at the roulette table, luxurious hotel rooms and one hell of a sexy Casino owner. Welcome to Las Vegas ladies - the city of sin, and for Arianna, hopefully the city where she can leave her horrid past behind her and start anew.
Holding Aces is the debut novel from new author Nikki Groom. Its a fast paced, knock your socks off tale that’s as packed with delicious sexy steaminess as it is with intrigue and mystery. Arianna is a young woman that has found herself unlucky in love more times than she can count. She finally finds the courage to leave her violent fiance, only to catapult herself right into another disastrous, abusive relationship. Only this time, she married him...leaving a husband behind is not as easy as hiding from an ex, they tend to put up a bit more of a fight. Arianna finds that she has no one to turn to, nowhere left to run. Desperate, she reaches out to the family she left behind when she disappeared. Living a life under a false name and in a sham of a marriage has taken its toll. Returning home to the life she abandoned has never sounded better. With the help of her best friend and confidant, Lottie - she finds herself at one of the hottest casino and hotel on the Las Vegas strip. The Kingdom. There she finds safety, security and a chance at a fresh start. Its what she didn’t expect to find - Denham King, that really set this story on fire.
I wake up draped head to toe in Denham King.
Denham King is the owner of The Kingdom, a strong man used to getting his own way. When his world collides with Arianna’s, the outcome is electrifying. Taking in her bruised and battered form awakens his fierce protective side and he immediately wants to know more about her. These two have a connection right off the bat. I enjoyed the way they took the time exploring and getting to know one another - Denham was so patient with her and truly had her best interests at heart. It also didn’t hurt that he’s ridiculously hot and has that splash of alpha in him that I love in male characters.
As Arianna struggles to let her guard down and open her heart again, darkness swirls around them. The threat of her abusive ex, the uncertainty of when her husband would track her down are constantly pressing down on her - stifling any progress she makes in her relationship with Denham. The way these two tiptoe around their true feelings and desires for each other was super frustrating, though understandable given Arianna’s past and her insecurities. I loved her conversations with herself in her head - I thought that was hilarious and definitely made her character unique. I would have liked to have seen more of Arianna re-establishing the relationship with her Mom and Lottie now that she returned, but I’m hopeful that this will happen in future books.
Denham and Arianna definitely spiced things up and earn high marks in the heat-o-meter, the dangerous situations just added to the sexiness of this book - I can’t wait for more. An amazing debut novel from Nikki Groom - girl, you’ve definitely made a fan out of me ;) Actually, I think Denham might have had more to do with it..
The ending was one of the best parts of this book...yes its a cliffhanger - but it was one that I really enjoyed. Will Arianna’s luck change for the better? Or will she find that even holding all the aces doesn’t save you from evil? Grab a copy and find out - I promise that you won’t regret meeting Denham King and stepping into his kingdom.
**4 Deliciously Wicked Stars**
xo Cassia
deliciouslywickedbooks.com
Holding Aces is the debut novel from new author Nikki Groom. Its a fast paced, knock your socks off tale that’s as packed with delicious sexy steaminess as it is with intrigue and mystery. Arianna is a young woman that has found herself unlucky in love more times than she can count. She finally finds the courage to leave her violent fiance, only to catapult herself right into another disastrous, abusive relationship. Only this time, she married him...leaving a husband behind is not as easy as hiding from an ex, they tend to put up a bit more of a fight. Arianna finds that she has no one to turn to, nowhere left to run. Desperate, she reaches out to the family she left behind when she disappeared. Living a life under a false name and in a sham of a marriage has taken its toll. Returning home to the life she abandoned has never sounded better. With the help of her best friend and confidant, Lottie - she finds herself at one of the hottest casino and hotel on the Las Vegas strip. The Kingdom. There she finds safety, security and a chance at a fresh start. Its what she didn’t expect to find - Denham King, that really set this story on fire.
I wake up draped head to toe in Denham King.
Denham King is the owner of The Kingdom, a strong man used to getting his own way. When his world collides with Arianna’s, the outcome is electrifying. Taking in her bruised and battered form awakens his fierce protective side and he immediately wants to know more about her. These two have a connection right off the bat. I enjoyed the way they took the time exploring and getting to know one another - Denham was so patient with her and truly had her best interests at heart. It also didn’t hurt that he’s ridiculously hot and has that splash of alpha in him that I love in male characters.
As Arianna struggles to let her guard down and open her heart again, darkness swirls around them. The threat of her abusive ex, the uncertainty of when her husband would track her down are constantly pressing down on her - stifling any progress she makes in her relationship with Denham. The way these two tiptoe around their true feelings and desires for each other was super frustrating, though understandable given Arianna’s past and her insecurities. I loved her conversations with herself in her head - I thought that was hilarious and definitely made her character unique. I would have liked to have seen more of Arianna re-establishing the relationship with her Mom and Lottie now that she returned, but I’m hopeful that this will happen in future books.
Denham and Arianna definitely spiced things up and earn high marks in the heat-o-meter, the dangerous situations just added to the sexiness of this book - I can’t wait for more. An amazing debut novel from Nikki Groom - girl, you’ve definitely made a fan out of me ;) Actually, I think Denham might have had more to do with it..
The ending was one of the best parts of this book...yes its a cliffhanger - but it was one that I really enjoyed. Will Arianna’s luck change for the better? Or will she find that even holding all the aces doesn’t save you from evil? Grab a copy and find out - I promise that you won’t regret meeting Denham King and stepping into his kingdom.
**4 Deliciously Wicked Stars**
xo Cassia
deliciouslywickedbooks.com
July 25, 2014
~JERZIE’S REVIEW~ **5 Deliciously Wicked Stars**
He’s kryptonite to my intentions. The exception to all my self-imposed rules.”
I stumbled across this book one night, and boy was I glad I one-clicked. I loved the cover, I loved the premise, and I loved the writing! What can I say, Holding Aces hits on all the right places, making this such a fantastic read. Nikki Groom is one talented writer and she had me hooked right from the prologue.
Arianna makes some bad decisions, with picking the wrong men for all the wrong reasons. You really feel for Arianna and her struggles. I felt an instant connection with her character. What she faced with Jonny (and even Aaron), the abuse and how she continued to overcome those demons, was written beautifully.
“So I did the only thing I could do …I ran.”
Running and lying has been what has kept Arianna safe, but when things get even worse for her, she runs to the only person that can help. Her best friend Lottie. The thing is, she left without so much as a goodbye or care for the shit storm she left behind. Arianna doesn’t know what kind of reunion she is in for, but she is willing to try and make it right. Arianna and Lottie have a friendship much like what I have with my girlfriends. Even with a little distance, you can always count on them through thick and thin. I loved Lottie.
Lottie knows the perfect place to hide out. Her boyfriend Spike works at a hotel on the Vegas Strip, which happens to be owned by his brother Denham.
I must say, Denham King is by far, the sexist book boyfriend ever! When Denham comes into Arianna's life, she has no idea how to take him. He is like nothing she has ever known. Denham doesn't want to push Arianna into something she isn't ready for, but the more time spent together the more difficult things become. The sexual tension only intensifies until it chokes them both into surrendering and the walls finally come crashing down. Hot damn!
“He’s unapologetic with his assault, claiming my mouth. Claiming me.”
Can you run from your past forever? What if she found something worth staying for? Does there come a time when fighting for what you want outweighs the risk of the bad?
Then Nikki hits us with a cliffhanger from hell.....grrrr, the wait is killing me. October cannot come soon enough.
This book has a little bit of everything. I feel we have only just touched the surface and can't wait to see what other surprises Nikki has in store for us. Looking forward to High Stakes. The countdown is on.... :)
Jerz
deliciouslywickedbooks.com
He’s kryptonite to my intentions. The exception to all my self-imposed rules.”
I stumbled across this book one night, and boy was I glad I one-clicked. I loved the cover, I loved the premise, and I loved the writing! What can I say, Holding Aces hits on all the right places, making this such a fantastic read. Nikki Groom is one talented writer and she had me hooked right from the prologue.
Arianna makes some bad decisions, with picking the wrong men for all the wrong reasons. You really feel for Arianna and her struggles. I felt an instant connection with her character. What she faced with Jonny (and even Aaron), the abuse and how she continued to overcome those demons, was written beautifully.
“So I did the only thing I could do …I ran.”
Running and lying has been what has kept Arianna safe, but when things get even worse for her, she runs to the only person that can help. Her best friend Lottie. The thing is, she left without so much as a goodbye or care for the shit storm she left behind. Arianna doesn’t know what kind of reunion she is in for, but she is willing to try and make it right. Arianna and Lottie have a friendship much like what I have with my girlfriends. Even with a little distance, you can always count on them through thick and thin. I loved Lottie.
Lottie knows the perfect place to hide out. Her boyfriend Spike works at a hotel on the Vegas Strip, which happens to be owned by his brother Denham.
I must say, Denham King is by far, the sexist book boyfriend ever! When Denham comes into Arianna's life, she has no idea how to take him. He is like nothing she has ever known. Denham doesn't want to push Arianna into something she isn't ready for, but the more time spent together the more difficult things become. The sexual tension only intensifies until it chokes them both into surrendering and the walls finally come crashing down. Hot damn!
“He’s unapologetic with his assault, claiming my mouth. Claiming me.”
Can you run from your past forever? What if she found something worth staying for? Does there come a time when fighting for what you want outweighs the risk of the bad?
Then Nikki hits us with a cliffhanger from hell.....grrrr, the wait is killing me. October cannot come soon enough.
This book has a little bit of everything. I feel we have only just touched the surface and can't wait to see what other surprises Nikki has in store for us. Looking forward to High Stakes. The countdown is on.... :)
Jerz
deliciouslywickedbooks.com
July 9, 2014
Arc generously provided by the author (the first book by one of my oldest gr friends Nikki)
From the first 25% this could have gone anywhere (great start to a book) but perhaps where it did go just wasn't my cup of tea?
I liked the story, I didn't love it - I liked the characters, I didn't love them. I wasn't gripped.
For me it felt like there was quite a bit of padding, it didn't need to be that long and perhaps it wasn't as full a story as I would have liked. It felt a bit jumpy (like the whole her friend and his brother thing was a bit quick for me, as was how instant the whole situation between the main characters, it stopped the reality of the beginning of the book dead.)
On the whole though, a 3 star read IMO is a good read and God knows I have to give her props for having the guts to write it - my dream of doing the same will remain just that!
Thanks very much Nikki for sharing it with me - I'm proud of you : )
PRE-REVIEW:
Very excited that one of my very first gr friends and fellow Brit Nikki has written her first book. Can't wait to dive in...
From the first 25% this could have gone anywhere (great start to a book) but perhaps where it did go just wasn't my cup of tea?
I liked the story, I didn't love it - I liked the characters, I didn't love them. I wasn't gripped.
For me it felt like there was quite a bit of padding, it didn't need to be that long and perhaps it wasn't as full a story as I would have liked. It felt a bit jumpy (like the whole her friend and his brother thing was a bit quick for me, as was how instant the whole situation between the main characters, it stopped the reality of the beginning of the book dead.)
On the whole though, a 3 star read IMO is a good read and God knows I have to give her props for having the guts to write it - my dream of doing the same will remain just that!
Thanks very much Nikki for sharing it with me - I'm proud of you : )
PRE-REVIEW:
Very excited that one of my very first gr friends and fellow Brit Nikki has written her first book. Can't wait to dive in...
May 15, 2014
Oh. My. God. I bloody loved this one. It's as hot as hell, sexy, fun, dramatic and mysterious. Everything you need from a debut novel although I could have done without the cliffhanger. But that just makes me even more anxious to read the next installment which I hope is soon as I definitely need more of Mr King. He is just so...... manly. That's the only way to describe him, he's handsome, protective, fun but also very gentle. The sexual tension throughout this book is extremely erotic, you're almost shouting at your kindle for them to just get it on. Oh but when they do it's so hot even I was in need of a very cold shower. The scenes are very descriptive which can definitely leave you panting and needing your own Mr King. Of course you will see what I mean when you read this book because you will want to. Actually you need to, you won't be disappointed with it in the least. One hell of a debut book and anxiously awaiting the next story from this amazing author.
He leans in so he's just millimetres from my ear and whispers "I'm all or nothing sweetheart, when I do something, I do it with everything I've got."
"I.... " I stutter, the words faltering and sticking in the back of my throat. Then I look at him, his soft eyes with those mesmerising gold flecks, and I muster up all the confidence I own. "I want you to kiss me, Mr King. "
He leans in so he's just millimetres from my ear and whispers "I'm all or nothing sweetheart, when I do something, I do it with everything I've got."
"I.... " I stutter, the words faltering and sticking in the back of my throat. Then I look at him, his soft eyes with those mesmerising gold flecks, and I muster up all the confidence I own. "I want you to kiss me, Mr King. "
July 19, 2014
Oh em actual gee!! I loved everything this book offered and now I'm impatiently awaiting book two!
So we meet Ari a girl in hiding after fleeing from an abusive relationship. She changes her name and tries to start again-cue life to throw more lemons at her! After a short marriage it's time to run again, only this time she runs (literally) straight into the chest of Mr King aka Denham...wise move!! That is one chest I would not mind running in to, yes Denham is that rich, super hot, self assured alpha male we all love.
The story is gripping throughout and has some brilliant side characters that I really hope we get more of in book two, Spike seems hot and more relaxed than his brother Denham, perhaps a little cheekier? Lottie is that best friend we all aspire to be, a straight talking, no bullshit ball of energy (yes I girl crushed slightly) and even Tara (Denham's sister)who we meet for only a few pages drew me in, I loved how sassy she was and the way she took the piss out of Denham endeared me towards her. The love he has for her was sweet and opened up his protective side, the one Ari so desperately needs.
So although I was looking forward to this read I was also a little apprehensive, this is a first novel for the author and I was unsure as to what I'd get. There are a lot of people turning their hand to writing and I worried it would be a mediocre story, written ok but covering the same rich man, troubled girl genre, which I will add is my favourite type of read, but has sometimes been done to death. HOW WRONG WAS I?! I loved it and I feel there was something refreshing about it, for me it's reinvigorated the need for my rich alpha male.
I think book 2 will undoubtedly be even better as the author has so many different ways to go with how holding aces ended I feel this book was merely setting the scene for much more drama.
All in all a brilliant read, wish it could've been longer or book 2 was here now but I know I'll be doing an all nighter to read the conclusion as soon as it is here! :)
So we meet Ari a girl in hiding after fleeing from an abusive relationship. She changes her name and tries to start again-cue life to throw more lemons at her! After a short marriage it's time to run again, only this time she runs (literally) straight into the chest of Mr King aka Denham...wise move!! That is one chest I would not mind running in to, yes Denham is that rich, super hot, self assured alpha male we all love.
The story is gripping throughout and has some brilliant side characters that I really hope we get more of in book two, Spike seems hot and more relaxed than his brother Denham, perhaps a little cheekier? Lottie is that best friend we all aspire to be, a straight talking, no bullshit ball of energy (yes I girl crushed slightly) and even Tara (Denham's sister)who we meet for only a few pages drew me in, I loved how sassy she was and the way she took the piss out of Denham endeared me towards her. The love he has for her was sweet and opened up his protective side, the one Ari so desperately needs.
So although I was looking forward to this read I was also a little apprehensive, this is a first novel for the author and I was unsure as to what I'd get. There are a lot of people turning their hand to writing and I worried it would be a mediocre story, written ok but covering the same rich man, troubled girl genre, which I will add is my favourite type of read, but has sometimes been done to death. HOW WRONG WAS I?! I loved it and I feel there was something refreshing about it, for me it's reinvigorated the need for my rich alpha male.
I think book 2 will undoubtedly be even better as the author has so many different ways to go with how holding aces ended I feel this book was merely setting the scene for much more drama.
All in all a brilliant read, wish it could've been longer or book 2 was here now but I know I'll be doing an all nighter to read the conclusion as soon as it is here! :)
July 27, 2014
4.5 stars
Having just finished One Night: Promised by JEM I needed a strong book to pull me from that story.
I'd had lots of recommendations from friends and as it was already on my kindle I gave it a shot - I'm so glad I did otherwise a damn good book would have slipped me by.
Natalie/ Arianna has been running from a violent relationship for the past 18months, she now believes that she is settled in a marriage with Aaron but when that turns nasty she finds herself running again- this time to Vegas where she reconnects with her best friend and her mother who she hasn't seen in 18 months. Just when Arianna thinks it's time to give up completely on men Denham King enters her world or should I said she bangs into him in a lift !!!! Denham is immediately taken with this beautiful woman and makes it his mission for Arianne to start to believe there could be a happy ever after for her. It's not all plain sailing, (well it wouldn't be ) and this is part one of a two part series so it's going to end on a cliffy ( you have been warned) ! But don't let that put you off meeting Mr King he is sexy sweet and likes to take control ( he can take control of me any day ! ) There are some very sexy scenes
Some that made me blush on public transport !!! I loved both characters even Arianna ( I don't bond well with female leads) she had been through so much but didn't whine or cry constantly, she wants to become stronger and is determined to become that woman and I'm rooting all the way for her. I did sort of call the ending but there was a bit I didn't see coming !!!
Nikki's writing is addictive, making it so hard to put this book down. She made me care for these fictional people so that when I wasn't reading I was thinking about them !! With a cast of great secondary characters, funny scenarios , hot sexy scenes and a little mystery to boot this book has it all
What are you waiting for, 1 click now .
Having just finished One Night: Promised by JEM I needed a strong book to pull me from that story.
I'd had lots of recommendations from friends and as it was already on my kindle I gave it a shot - I'm so glad I did otherwise a damn good book would have slipped me by.
Natalie/ Arianna has been running from a violent relationship for the past 18months, she now believes that she is settled in a marriage with Aaron but when that turns nasty she finds herself running again- this time to Vegas where she reconnects with her best friend and her mother who she hasn't seen in 18 months. Just when Arianna thinks it's time to give up completely on men Denham King enters her world or should I said she bangs into him in a lift !!!! Denham is immediately taken with this beautiful woman and makes it his mission for Arianne to start to believe there could be a happy ever after for her. It's not all plain sailing, (well it wouldn't be ) and this is part one of a two part series so it's going to end on a cliffy ( you have been warned) ! But don't let that put you off meeting Mr King he is sexy sweet and likes to take control ( he can take control of me any day ! ) There are some very sexy scenes
Some that made me blush on public transport !!! I loved both characters even Arianna ( I don't bond well with female leads) she had been through so much but didn't whine or cry constantly, she wants to become stronger and is determined to become that woman and I'm rooting all the way for her. I did sort of call the ending but there was a bit I didn't see coming !!!
Nikki's writing is addictive, making it so hard to put this book down. She made me care for these fictional people so that when I wasn't reading I was thinking about them !! With a cast of great secondary characters, funny scenarios , hot sexy scenes and a little mystery to boot this book has it all
What are you waiting for, 1 click now .
May 30, 2014
I started this book expecting nothing. The heroine was making one mistake after the other with men.
At one point I thought she just looked at the man’s wallet and learned the consequences of her poor decisions later. I began to not sympathy for her, but then I felt guilty for feeling that way. Later, I actually found Ari to be likeable. When she met Denham, I started feeling like I judged her too quickly. She was not so quick to give in to everything he was offering. Denham is kind, sweet, and very protective and OMG I love his name!!
I hoping that things would go slow between Denham and Ari. However, it felt a little to insta for me. I love the hero is all protective and alpha about situations, but I think in this story and Ari’s history, I wanted their feelings to go even slower.
Nonetheless the sexual tension was there. Scenes were steamy and there is a cliffy. How could there not be?!
A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
At one point I thought she just looked at the man’s wallet and learned the consequences of her poor decisions later. I began to not sympathy for her, but then I felt guilty for feeling that way. Later, I actually found Ari to be likeable. When she met Denham, I started feeling like I judged her too quickly. She was not so quick to give in to everything he was offering. Denham is kind, sweet, and very protective and OMG I love his name!!
I hoping that things would go slow between Denham and Ari. However, it felt a little to insta for me. I love the hero is all protective and alpha about situations, but I think in this story and Ari’s history, I wanted their feelings to go even slower.
Nonetheless the sexual tension was there. Scenes were steamy and there is a cliffy. How could there not be?!
A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2014
Highly recommend this read! Well written! If this is an example of what is to come from Nikki in her forthcoming books, we are in for a real treat! I would have liked a little bit more history on Natalie, but am wondering if it will be in the next book & Nikki is using this one to tease us.....
This story will keep you on your toes & oh my you will soon fall in love with Mr. King - HOT!!! You will love the chemistry between Denham & Natalie. Unbelievable chemistry - oh my!
Natalie is running away from her past & runs smack into the handsome Mr. King. The chemistry is immediate. You will have to read the story to see how it plays out, but you will not regret it! A whole lotta hotness!
The cliffhanger will grab you & leave you with a book hangover! Uggh, I cannot wait for the sequel!
This story will keep you on your toes & oh my you will soon fall in love with Mr. King - HOT!!! You will love the chemistry between Denham & Natalie. Unbelievable chemistry - oh my!
Natalie is running away from her past & runs smack into the handsome Mr. King. The chemistry is immediate. You will have to read the story to see how it plays out, but you will not regret it! A whole lotta hotness!
The cliffhanger will grab you & leave you with a book hangover! Uggh, I cannot wait for the sequel!
January 29, 2015
3.5 stars. Not bad for a newbie but the fact he calls her "Stunner" is getting on my nerves a bit! Onto book 2....
May 30, 2014
4-4.5 stars! This was a great debut novel!
*ARC provided to G the Book Diva blog in exchange for an honest review*
ENTER GIVEAWAY BELOW!
"Maybe you've kissed enough frogs and instead of a prince, you've found yourself a King..."
Oh yes, I would love a Denham King for my very own, please! That is such a badass name and he definitely wears it well. I fell hard for the mega rich Las Vegas hotel and casino owner. I can't help feeling like he's up to a little bit of no good but I think his charm and sex appeal might make all of that forgivable.
"Stunner" as Denham likes to call her is running from two bad relationships. Her plan is to spend a week at The Kingdom Hotel and figure out her next move. That is until she and Denham meet for the first time and all plans go out of the door. He is determined to take care of her and treasure her the way she deserves. Could you resist? I know I couldn't!
"You were mine the moment our eyes locked. You know it. I know it." He states between kisses. I know he's right. His golden eyes hit me and have had me addicted ever since.
He's kryptonite to my intentions.
Swoon!
But as expected, you can't run very far from an unresolved past and she just hopes she has the right man behind her this time.
Really great story and I can't wait for the next book!! I am definitely following this series!
Enter the giveaway to win a signed paperback, ebook book copies and a swag pack!
http://www.bookdivaness.com/post/8732...
*ARC provided to G the Book Diva blog in exchange for an honest review*
ENTER GIVEAWAY BELOW!
"Maybe you've kissed enough frogs and instead of a prince, you've found yourself a King..."
Oh yes, I would love a Denham King for my very own, please! That is such a badass name and he definitely wears it well. I fell hard for the mega rich Las Vegas hotel and casino owner. I can't help feeling like he's up to a little bit of no good but I think his charm and sex appeal might make all of that forgivable.
"Stunner" as Denham likes to call her is running from two bad relationships. Her plan is to spend a week at The Kingdom Hotel and figure out her next move. That is until she and Denham meet for the first time and all plans go out of the door. He is determined to take care of her and treasure her the way she deserves. Could you resist? I know I couldn't!
"You were mine the moment our eyes locked. You know it. I know it." He states between kisses. I know he's right. His golden eyes hit me and have had me addicted ever since.
He's kryptonite to my intentions.
Swoon!
But as expected, you can't run very far from an unresolved past and she just hopes she has the right man behind her this time.
Really great story and I can't wait for the next book!! I am definitely following this series!
Enter the giveaway to win a signed paperback, ebook book copies and a swag pack!
http://www.bookdivaness.com/post/8732...
May 19, 2014
4- I want a penthouse suite at The Kingdom Stars! Holding Aces starts off with our heroine on the run, she has been badly beaten and now she is on the run and in hiding. Things are not what they seem and she is keeping herself closed off from others. Fast forward a year and she finds herself in a marriage of convenience in another state, living a double life. She finds herself being a victim again, but this time walks at the first sign of trouble and flees to Las Vegas.
Natalie is done hiding (she wants her life back as Arianna) and wants to slowly get her life back. Her friend Lottie gets her set up at a hotel/casino owned by her boyfriend's brother, The Kingdom. Natalie ends up running into a truly engaging totally entralling man, none other than Denham King (cool name, huh?). Denham owns the Kingdom and seems to be taken back by Natalie. There is a lot of steam and build up between these two and I found myself almost begging for them to "SEAL THE DEAL" but when it all finally does happen, its worth the wait!
There is this constant nervous energy when I read this book, that I couldn't quite but my finger on, but I am sure its in large part because we have a soon to be ex-husband who disappears from the hospital, a stalking ex-fiance who is crazy to the max, and some back story on Denham that isn't adding up? The whole investors issue (Amy), his father's death, etc. so much back story going on that leads me to believe we have some major eye openers coming in book 2, which sadly this one ends with a major cliffy!!
But, it does give you some bonus material of Denham's POV, which I must say- Ms. Nikki Groom- please include Denham's POV in book 2, because I LOVED that bonus material of his POV! I was always wondering, just like Natalie (Arianna), if he was another set up or failure for her. Great enjoyable read and I am dying for book 2!
*This honest review was done in exchange for an ARC from the generous author Nikkie Groom, thank you!*
Natalie is done hiding (she wants her life back as Arianna) and wants to slowly get her life back. Her friend Lottie gets her set up at a hotel/casino owned by her boyfriend's brother, The Kingdom. Natalie ends up running into a truly engaging totally entralling man, none other than Denham King (cool name, huh?). Denham owns the Kingdom and seems to be taken back by Natalie. There is a lot of steam and build up between these two and I found myself almost begging for them to "SEAL THE DEAL" but when it all finally does happen, its worth the wait!
There is this constant nervous energy when I read this book, that I couldn't quite but my finger on, but I am sure its in large part because we have a soon to be ex-husband who disappears from the hospital, a stalking ex-fiance who is crazy to the max, and some back story on Denham that isn't adding up? The whole investors issue (Amy), his father's death, etc. so much back story going on that leads me to believe we have some major eye openers coming in book 2, which sadly this one ends with a major cliffy!!
But, it does give you some bonus material of Denham's POV, which I must say- Ms. Nikki Groom- please include Denham's POV in book 2, because I LOVED that bonus material of his POV! I was always wondering, just like Natalie (Arianna), if he was another set up or failure for her. Great enjoyable read and I am dying for book 2!
*This honest review was done in exchange for an ARC from the generous author Nikkie Groom, thank you!*
June 17, 2014
A fabulous debut! Nikki Groom’s writing is wonderful. It’s beautifully observed and there’s a real affection for her characters – particularly the delectable Denham King. To say I loved Denham is a total understatement! He’s totally swoon-worthy and serious book boyfriend material – a take-control alpha but also a really genuine and sweet guy. He sees the fragility in Arianna and wants to take care of her and protect her – so I totally understand why she falls for him, even in light of her troubled past with men. The chemistry between Ari and Denham is really hot, but there are also some wonderfully playful moments between them. I read most of their scenes together with a huge smile on my face.
The story has action and intrigue and it really had me hooked. There is a cliff hanger but it promises lots of angst and drama for the final installment of this story and I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here!!! Looking forward to reading more from Nikki Groom and waiting not-so-patiently for my next encounter with my newest book boyfriend Denham King.
4.5 (can’t wait for more!!) stars
The story has action and intrigue and it really had me hooked. There is a cliff hanger but it promises lots of angst and drama for the final installment of this story and I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here!!! Looking forward to reading more from Nikki Groom and waiting not-so-patiently for my next encounter with my newest book boyfriend Denham King.
4.5 (can’t wait for more!!) stars
August 13, 2014
3.5 Stars!
Review to come :)
Review to come :)
February 10, 2017
3.5 Stars review in progress
February 24, 2015
3.5 STARS!
Exciting storyline but I felt the way the characters got together was a bit sudden. Didn't quite flow. But I can't wait to find out what happens next!
Exciting storyline but I felt the way the characters got together was a bit sudden. Didn't quite flow. But I can't wait to find out what happens next!
June 6, 2014
Complimentary copy given by the author in exchange for an honest review
As I sit here writing my review of this really good debut novel by Miss Groom, I cannot help but keep thinking about the ending – that, to me, means that I have read a book that gripped me, moved me, yet a book that also, from time to time, made me a tad frustrated. But the latter in no way means that I did not enjoy Arianna’s story, I really did. And Denham made me sigh happily all…the…time. Allow me to apologise for getting a bit ahead of myself here, everyone, and I will start again. *wink*
“Holding Aces” is a story about one woman’s struggle to finding her way back to herself. It is a story about the ugliness of life, and that meeting ones fears and troubles head-on can be extremely hard and frightening. Arianna has not exactly had the best of luck in hers so far – at least when it concerns the opposite sex – but she finally takes charge of it, refusing to become a victim (again) and trying to come to terms with her past. And in doing so also means that she has to learn to move forward in order to become the woman she wants to be.
On her way back to it – both literally and figuratively – she runs into Denham King; he is the hotel owner of “The Kingdom”, a fabulous and luxurious hotel in Las Vegas, where her friend Lottie has booked a room for her, and from the moment they meet, Arianna finds herself intrigued by him. He is, without a doubt, a man who knows his own mind, but he is far from arrogant about his status in society. His honest and genuine demeanor slowly crash down the high walls Arianna has built around her heart, and she comes to realize that not all mean simply take what they want – no, some men know how to ask for it instead. And Denham is a man who falls into the latter category. The question is, though, if Arianna can allow herself to trust her own judgments when she has been so wrong in the past?
In many ways, I found Arianna to be a very genuine character: her thoughts and feelings about her past - especially her fears and doubts about herself – seem very realistic when I think about other abused women and how they perceive themselves. Furthermore, I do like how she finally realizes that in order to move forward, she has to acknowledge her past – burying her head in the sand does not help. Even her doubts about whether or not she should trust Denham with her secrets seem realistic, and I really enjoyed getting to know her, especially when she starts gaining more self-confidence as her relationship with Denham progresses.
As for Denham…well, he is really the perfect match to Arianna: strong, self-assured, and sweet. I like how he is different from other book boyfriends, meaning that he is not such a complicated man. He goes after what he wants, and his patience with Arianna makes him a very believable character. Oh, and let me not forget to add that he is most definitely sexy! We do like that about our heroes, do we not? *wink* The fact that he holds back, that he instinctively knows not to rush Arianna in any way – even when she herself protests about it – makes him, again, feel very realistic, and my romantic heart could not help but swoon over him on more than one occasion.
Although this is the debut novel of Miss Groom, her writing seems to be that of a more experienced author. It is engaging, sassy, and you can really feel that she cares deeply for her characters. Further, she has also created some very likeable secondary characters, such as Lottie and Spike, who both play a very significant part in the book, yet do not take the focus away from Arianna and Denham’s love story. I take my hat off to this author and say: Well done!
The only reason I am not giving “Holding Aces” a higher rating is the fact that I feel that the book is just a bit too short. It may seem inconsequential to other readers – naturally, this is just my personal opinion – but I admit that I like my romances to be longer; I would have liked to see some scenes played out in more detail, and even though I do not mind fast-paced books, I just feel that the story was a bit too rushed at times. Also, despite all the reasons I fell for Denham, I still feel as if I do not know him that well, but I hope that my questions about him will come to light in the future. Having said that, however, I truly enjoyed getting to know Arianna and Denham, and the way this book ends – with a bit of a bang – almost made me tear my hair out, BUT I actually like that the author manages to evoke such strong feelings in me.
All in all, I believe that this really is a very enjoyable read: there is great romance, some funny banter between Arianna and Denham, lots of steam, and I highly recommend that you read it for yourself. Yes, you will be left with a lot of questions, and a bit of a mystery as well, but that only makes me so more curious about the the second installment in The Kingdom Series, which, hopefully, will become available later this year.
As I sit here writing my review of this really good debut novel by Miss Groom, I cannot help but keep thinking about the ending – that, to me, means that I have read a book that gripped me, moved me, yet a book that also, from time to time, made me a tad frustrated. But the latter in no way means that I did not enjoy Arianna’s story, I really did. And Denham made me sigh happily all…the…time. Allow me to apologise for getting a bit ahead of myself here, everyone, and I will start again. *wink*
“Holding Aces” is a story about one woman’s struggle to finding her way back to herself. It is a story about the ugliness of life, and that meeting ones fears and troubles head-on can be extremely hard and frightening. Arianna has not exactly had the best of luck in hers so far – at least when it concerns the opposite sex – but she finally takes charge of it, refusing to become a victim (again) and trying to come to terms with her past. And in doing so also means that she has to learn to move forward in order to become the woman she wants to be.
On her way back to it – both literally and figuratively – she runs into Denham King; he is the hotel owner of “The Kingdom”, a fabulous and luxurious hotel in Las Vegas, where her friend Lottie has booked a room for her, and from the moment they meet, Arianna finds herself intrigued by him. He is, without a doubt, a man who knows his own mind, but he is far from arrogant about his status in society. His honest and genuine demeanor slowly crash down the high walls Arianna has built around her heart, and she comes to realize that not all mean simply take what they want – no, some men know how to ask for it instead. And Denham is a man who falls into the latter category. The question is, though, if Arianna can allow herself to trust her own judgments when she has been so wrong in the past?
In many ways, I found Arianna to be a very genuine character: her thoughts and feelings about her past - especially her fears and doubts about herself – seem very realistic when I think about other abused women and how they perceive themselves. Furthermore, I do like how she finally realizes that in order to move forward, she has to acknowledge her past – burying her head in the sand does not help. Even her doubts about whether or not she should trust Denham with her secrets seem realistic, and I really enjoyed getting to know her, especially when she starts gaining more self-confidence as her relationship with Denham progresses.
As for Denham…well, he is really the perfect match to Arianna: strong, self-assured, and sweet. I like how he is different from other book boyfriends, meaning that he is not such a complicated man. He goes after what he wants, and his patience with Arianna makes him a very believable character. Oh, and let me not forget to add that he is most definitely sexy! We do like that about our heroes, do we not? *wink* The fact that he holds back, that he instinctively knows not to rush Arianna in any way – even when she herself protests about it – makes him, again, feel very realistic, and my romantic heart could not help but swoon over him on more than one occasion.
Although this is the debut novel of Miss Groom, her writing seems to be that of a more experienced author. It is engaging, sassy, and you can really feel that she cares deeply for her characters. Further, she has also created some very likeable secondary characters, such as Lottie and Spike, who both play a very significant part in the book, yet do not take the focus away from Arianna and Denham’s love story. I take my hat off to this author and say: Well done!
The only reason I am not giving “Holding Aces” a higher rating is the fact that I feel that the book is just a bit too short. It may seem inconsequential to other readers – naturally, this is just my personal opinion – but I admit that I like my romances to be longer; I would have liked to see some scenes played out in more detail, and even though I do not mind fast-paced books, I just feel that the story was a bit too rushed at times. Also, despite all the reasons I fell for Denham, I still feel as if I do not know him that well, but I hope that my questions about him will come to light in the future. Having said that, however, I truly enjoyed getting to know Arianna and Denham, and the way this book ends – with a bit of a bang – almost made me tear my hair out, BUT I actually like that the author manages to evoke such strong feelings in me.
All in all, I believe that this really is a very enjoyable read: there is great romance, some funny banter between Arianna and Denham, lots of steam, and I highly recommend that you read it for yourself. Yes, you will be left with a lot of questions, and a bit of a mystery as well, but that only makes me so more curious about the the second installment in The Kingdom Series, which, hopefully, will become available later this year.
May 2, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
Holding Aces by Nikki Groom is not only the first book in The Kingdom series, but it is also her debut novel. I think that this book was a great first novel, and I am excited to see more from her in the future. I did have a few things that could have been a little better, but overall I think this one was a really solid debut. Beware that this is the first book in the series, and there is a cliffhanger. However, the next book is said to be the conclusion to the series so there isn't too much of a wait for things to be resolved. The next book is scheduled to be released sometime this fall.
Ari has had a pretty tough life, and has had horrible luck with men. She left her abusive fiance and started over far away from her home. She hasn't seen or spoken to her mom or best friend Lottie since she left. She met Aaron, and he treated her well, so even though she didn't love him she married him and planned to live a comfortable life with him. But when they get in a fight and he hits her, she knows that she needs to get out immediately. She decides to get back in touch with her mom and best friend, while she can't come home because of her ex-fiance her friend Lottie sets her up with a room in Vegas at her boyfriend's brother's hotel. She ends up meeting Denham King, the sexy owner of the hotel and casino. Things between them are instantly more than either of them have ever felt before, but with Ari's past still out there they have a long way ahead of them before they can see if they have a future together.
I liked Denham. I wasn't really a fan of his name, and for some reason it didn't really seem to fit him for me. That is probably just a personal preference though. He was sexy and sweet, and even though he had alpha tendencies he was really tender with Ari. He was thoughtful and patient, and was always looking out for her. I thought that he was really great for Ari, and he really seemed to want to help her out. He didn't have a problem being open and honest about his feelings, and that was really nice to see. Ari took awhile for me to warm up to. I felt bad for everything that she had been through, and she had been in some really horrible situations. I do feel like she didn't always handle things the best though, and that might have been why it was harder for me to connect with her. I'm not saying she deserved what she had been given by any means, but I do think that some things she could have done differently. She was a survivor though, and I liked that she was a feisty one with Denham. She wasn't afraid to say what was on her mind or turn him down. I also liked that she wasn't out to get whatever she could, and was always telling him when he was doing things that were over the top. I thought that Denham and Ari had a lot of chemistry and they were really smoking hot together!
Overall, this was a really good start to the series. I enjoyed the story and thought that the pacing was well done. I was interested to see where things would go, and this one was easy to get into. I thought that this one was a relatively quick read, because I was into the story. I was glad that this story didn't focus as much on Ari's past and that we really got to see her present and the start of her future. It was nice to know that she had a past and how it affected her, but to not have that drag down the story. I did feel like Denham's feelings developed rather quickly for Ari though, and were a bit more insta-love than I typically like. I understood the attraction, but they haven't really been together long or know each other well, and he is throwing around words like forever and always. I hope that the next book really shows more of the development of a relationship between the two of them, and that we get to see more of an emotional connection form. This one was more about the physical to me, and made their instant feelings seem less real and believable. I am looking forward to seeing what happens next after that cliffhanger, and hope that we won't have to wait too long to get the conclusion to the story. I would recommend giving this one a shot if you like your heroes wealthy and alpha and your heroines a bit broken but strong. This one is worth giving a shot, and I will be interested to read more from Nikki Groom in the future.
**ARC Provided by Love Between the Sheets**
Holding Aces by Nikki Groom is not only the first book in The Kingdom series, but it is also her debut novel. I think that this book was a great first novel, and I am excited to see more from her in the future. I did have a few things that could have been a little better, but overall I think this one was a really solid debut. Beware that this is the first book in the series, and there is a cliffhanger. However, the next book is said to be the conclusion to the series so there isn't too much of a wait for things to be resolved. The next book is scheduled to be released sometime this fall.
Ari has had a pretty tough life, and has had horrible luck with men. She left her abusive fiance and started over far away from her home. She hasn't seen or spoken to her mom or best friend Lottie since she left. She met Aaron, and he treated her well, so even though she didn't love him she married him and planned to live a comfortable life with him. But when they get in a fight and he hits her, she knows that she needs to get out immediately. She decides to get back in touch with her mom and best friend, while she can't come home because of her ex-fiance her friend Lottie sets her up with a room in Vegas at her boyfriend's brother's hotel. She ends up meeting Denham King, the sexy owner of the hotel and casino. Things between them are instantly more than either of them have ever felt before, but with Ari's past still out there they have a long way ahead of them before they can see if they have a future together.
I liked Denham. I wasn't really a fan of his name, and for some reason it didn't really seem to fit him for me. That is probably just a personal preference though. He was sexy and sweet, and even though he had alpha tendencies he was really tender with Ari. He was thoughtful and patient, and was always looking out for her. I thought that he was really great for Ari, and he really seemed to want to help her out. He didn't have a problem being open and honest about his feelings, and that was really nice to see. Ari took awhile for me to warm up to. I felt bad for everything that she had been through, and she had been in some really horrible situations. I do feel like she didn't always handle things the best though, and that might have been why it was harder for me to connect with her. I'm not saying she deserved what she had been given by any means, but I do think that some things she could have done differently. She was a survivor though, and I liked that she was a feisty one with Denham. She wasn't afraid to say what was on her mind or turn him down. I also liked that she wasn't out to get whatever she could, and was always telling him when he was doing things that were over the top. I thought that Denham and Ari had a lot of chemistry and they were really smoking hot together!
Overall, this was a really good start to the series. I enjoyed the story and thought that the pacing was well done. I was interested to see where things would go, and this one was easy to get into. I thought that this one was a relatively quick read, because I was into the story. I was glad that this story didn't focus as much on Ari's past and that we really got to see her present and the start of her future. It was nice to know that she had a past and how it affected her, but to not have that drag down the story. I did feel like Denham's feelings developed rather quickly for Ari though, and were a bit more insta-love than I typically like. I understood the attraction, but they haven't really been together long or know each other well, and he is throwing around words like forever and always. I hope that the next book really shows more of the development of a relationship between the two of them, and that we get to see more of an emotional connection form. This one was more about the physical to me, and made their instant feelings seem less real and believable. I am looking forward to seeing what happens next after that cliffhanger, and hope that we won't have to wait too long to get the conclusion to the story. I would recommend giving this one a shot if you like your heroes wealthy and alpha and your heroines a bit broken but strong. This one is worth giving a shot, and I will be interested to read more from Nikki Groom in the future.
**ARC Provided by Love Between the Sheets**
May 31, 2014
False Name. False Life. False Sense of Security. For the past 18 months, that's how Arianna has lived. As Natalie Jamesson, she thought she could escape her abusive past, and for awhile, she was able to pull it off until her self preservation wins out, and she finds herself running again. Unlike last time, she asks her old best friend, Lottie, for help, and Lottie tells her to head to Las Vegas and go to The Kingdom Hotel and Casino. As Ari hides out in the extravagant hotel, she's able to reconnect with her mom and her best friend, which gives her a small sense of security for the first time in a long time, but there's still a big part of her that worries that while her visible wounds may heal, her internal scars will always keep her second guessing every choice she makes. Ari doesn't know if she'll ever be able to move on from her abusive past; her negative thinking consumes her and prevents her from thinking her life could ever change for the better, but when she meets Denham King, it's going to become his personal mission to heal Ari's mind and her heart no matter how cautious she may be.
Denham King is the owner of The Kingdom Hotel and Casino; he exudes confidence, power, and sex. He wants Ari, but he also knows that he has to handle her with care because he knows about her past. The last thing Ari wants to do is jump into another relationship; she's too broken and needs time to regain some confidence, but that doesn't stop Denham from offering his help, and he doesn't take no for an answer. The attraction between Ari and Denham is definitely there, but no matter what Ari's body wants, she's hesitant to give in, anticipating Denham showing his true colors and not actually being the caring and considerate man he appears to be. Each day that Denham treats her like a princess and takes care of everything she needs, though, her resolve slips and soon, Ari's ready to give into the passion that smolders around them. Will Denham turn out to be just like the past two men in her life, or could he be exactly what she needs to move past her scars and heal?
Overall, I enjoyed Holding Aces. Both Ari and Denham are interesting characters, and the storyline kept me interested. There are a few twists that I would have liked to have seen further developed, but not knowing didn't cause any gaps in the story. I also would have liked to have gotten a bit more back story on Denham, but hopefully, as his and Ari's story continues, readers will gain further insight into how he became the man he did. I struggled with the whole insta relationship because Ari repeatedly said she needed to get herself back on track and take care of healing; I would have liked to have seen their connection slowly develop. She's not even divorced yet and heading into a new relationship with a man she doesn't even know; I didn't feel like it fit Ari's mental state, but maybe the saying "the heart wants what the heart wants" applies to how she feels about Denham, and she was only delaying the inevitable. I'll warn you, this one ends in a cliffhanger, so be ready to impatiently wait to see how it all turns out.
I have to say for a debut text, Nikki Groom's writing is solid. She definitely understands the craft, and as she continues to grow as a writer, the few concerns in Holding Aces will not be a factor in her upcoming stories, and I can't wait to see how her stories and her writing evolve.
A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
3.5/4 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Denham King is the owner of The Kingdom Hotel and Casino; he exudes confidence, power, and sex. He wants Ari, but he also knows that he has to handle her with care because he knows about her past. The last thing Ari wants to do is jump into another relationship; she's too broken and needs time to regain some confidence, but that doesn't stop Denham from offering his help, and he doesn't take no for an answer. The attraction between Ari and Denham is definitely there, but no matter what Ari's body wants, she's hesitant to give in, anticipating Denham showing his true colors and not actually being the caring and considerate man he appears to be. Each day that Denham treats her like a princess and takes care of everything she needs, though, her resolve slips and soon, Ari's ready to give into the passion that smolders around them. Will Denham turn out to be just like the past two men in her life, or could he be exactly what she needs to move past her scars and heal?
Overall, I enjoyed Holding Aces. Both Ari and Denham are interesting characters, and the storyline kept me interested. There are a few twists that I would have liked to have seen further developed, but not knowing didn't cause any gaps in the story. I also would have liked to have gotten a bit more back story on Denham, but hopefully, as his and Ari's story continues, readers will gain further insight into how he became the man he did. I struggled with the whole insta relationship because Ari repeatedly said she needed to get herself back on track and take care of healing; I would have liked to have seen their connection slowly develop. She's not even divorced yet and heading into a new relationship with a man she doesn't even know; I didn't feel like it fit Ari's mental state, but maybe the saying "the heart wants what the heart wants" applies to how she feels about Denham, and she was only delaying the inevitable. I'll warn you, this one ends in a cliffhanger, so be ready to impatiently wait to see how it all turns out.
I have to say for a debut text, Nikki Groom's writing is solid. She definitely understands the craft, and as she continues to grow as a writer, the few concerns in Holding Aces will not be a factor in her upcoming stories, and I can't wait to see how her stories and her writing evolve.
A copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
3.5/4 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
October 30, 2014
After reading the synopsis of this book I was excited to start diving into the world of Arianna and Denham. The author gave us a realistic story of a woman who found herself in a dangerous relationship with Jonny and then again with another man named Aaron. With the fight or flight mentality she was forced to decide what it was going to take to save her life. Not being strong enough to fight against these two strong and wealthy men, she ran. Lucky for her she ran to the Kingdom Hotel in Vegas.
Arianna impressed me as the lead female character that never lost the inner identity even though her outward appearance to the world had been stripped. After Jonny, she ran away, changing her name and location and losing contact to the two people in her life that meant the most, her mother and best friend Lottie. When she found Aaron she tried to put her trust into something that her gut continued to tell her was wrong. It only took one hit this time for her to pick up and leave but this is where my admiration for this strong woman began. Instead of running away and changing her identity again, she ran home. I loved how the author provided the reader with the inner thoughts and insecurities of Arianna while also introducing her to the man that could be her Prince Charming. Unlike other novels where the abused woman falls into the arms of a sexy protector, Arianna demanded her freedom and space to find her own way. She was determined to put the pieces of her life back together again and reconnect with those she loved and she didn’t need Denham to help her do that. Of course he wasn’t on the same page with that plan.
Denham was every woman’s dream come true. Owner of a luxury hotel, sexy and very much the gentleman he had the ability to see past the bruised face and into the soul of a fighter. He never doubted her strength or ability to do this on her own, but he asked her to allow him to help make this journey easier. A protector to the end, he takes every precaution to make sure she is safe from not only the men at the casino and hotel, but from the nightmares that still plague her. So for a lead male character, he is pretty darn awesome, but then the author did something that is rare these days, she wrote a man who could see that sex doesn’t fix everything. Denham encouraged Arianna to take time and not jump into sex just to fill an empty place in her life. Major applause to the author for doing this. So I am sure you can tell by now I am head over heels in love with this couple because they are so realistic, they almost felt like true life friends by the end of the book
.
Holding Aces does end in a dramatic cliff hanger, one that was somewhat predictable BUT still surprised and shocked at how it occurred. I am trying to be patient as I wait for the next part of this story and I will be reviewing it as soon as it is released. This is my first experience with this authors work and I am happy to say I will be following her releases from now on. I admire the way she can make a story intense without using the dramatic twists and turns that aren’t normally found in everyday life. I felt she kept the plot very consistent to reality which helps the reader connect to the characters and be brought into the story. I was unable to put the book down once I started because it had a consistent flow and I needed to know what was going to happen next.
Arianna impressed me as the lead female character that never lost the inner identity even though her outward appearance to the world had been stripped. After Jonny, she ran away, changing her name and location and losing contact to the two people in her life that meant the most, her mother and best friend Lottie. When she found Aaron she tried to put her trust into something that her gut continued to tell her was wrong. It only took one hit this time for her to pick up and leave but this is where my admiration for this strong woman began. Instead of running away and changing her identity again, she ran home. I loved how the author provided the reader with the inner thoughts and insecurities of Arianna while also introducing her to the man that could be her Prince Charming. Unlike other novels where the abused woman falls into the arms of a sexy protector, Arianna demanded her freedom and space to find her own way. She was determined to put the pieces of her life back together again and reconnect with those she loved and she didn’t need Denham to help her do that. Of course he wasn’t on the same page with that plan.
Denham was every woman’s dream come true. Owner of a luxury hotel, sexy and very much the gentleman he had the ability to see past the bruised face and into the soul of a fighter. He never doubted her strength or ability to do this on her own, but he asked her to allow him to help make this journey easier. A protector to the end, he takes every precaution to make sure she is safe from not only the men at the casino and hotel, but from the nightmares that still plague her. So for a lead male character, he is pretty darn awesome, but then the author did something that is rare these days, she wrote a man who could see that sex doesn’t fix everything. Denham encouraged Arianna to take time and not jump into sex just to fill an empty place in her life. Major applause to the author for doing this. So I am sure you can tell by now I am head over heels in love with this couple because they are so realistic, they almost felt like true life friends by the end of the book
.
Holding Aces does end in a dramatic cliff hanger, one that was somewhat predictable BUT still surprised and shocked at how it occurred. I am trying to be patient as I wait for the next part of this story and I will be reviewing it as soon as it is released. This is my first experience with this authors work and I am happy to say I will be following her releases from now on. I admire the way she can make a story intense without using the dramatic twists and turns that aren’t normally found in everyday life. I felt she kept the plot very consistent to reality which helps the reader connect to the characters and be brought into the story. I was unable to put the book down once I started because it had a consistent flow and I needed to know what was going to happen next.
May 29, 2014
Holding Aces was a brilliant read for me, the way it was written was not only captivating but you could feel the emotion in the words, the feelings that Natalie had the fear, the hope and the love, it all came through in this book and I loved every single chapter
This book starts off telling by telling us exactly what Natalie has gone through in her life and in this day and age I feel it will touch a lot of people out there in that they will unfortunately relate to the circumstances here and to me that made this book more real.
This is a dramatic, mysterious and sexy book; it has some very tender moments in here that will melt your heart.
For a debut novel this is to me a 6 star, I can’t fault it, there was everything in here that I had expected right from the beginning and the book kept me sitting and reading, I hated having to stop reading and actually go to sleep and now I want book 2.
Natalie our leading lady, has been put through hell by her ex and feels she can’t let herself trust anyone, while reading about her story and life I found myself crying in sympathy with what she has gone through it was so emotional and raw that it just broke my heart. I longed for her to find love and peace.
You can tell how Natalie see’s life from the beginning when she makes a statement to herself “Happily ever after was never possible” to me this just shows how unhappy and defeated she felt about her life.
There is still a lot of uncertainty with Natalie, her self confidence has been bashed and bruised for years and the self doubts come in but the good thing about Denham is he is different; he gives a damn about her and will never make her do anything she is not ready for.
The way the scenes are described will make you want more and you will, you will keep reading this book and then at the end you will read again, that is what I did, I have read the book twice now as I loved it so much.
Denham King, well what can I say about him, hot as hell, so sexy he should be illegal, he is funny, dramatic and mysterious and a real man, he is also very protective but so kind and gentle, honestly he is everything you want in a man and more. The way Nikki has described him in this book conjures up imagined in my mind and phew they are HOT. In the words of Natalie, Denham King is OFF. THE. CHART. HOT!!!! That sums it up really
There is so much sexual tension between Mr King and Natalie in this book that you feel it, it is very erotic and yes I was shouting at my kindle “Oh my God, get it on already” but when they do, watch out as it is extremely hot and very sexy to read even I was in need of a very cold shower.
A phrase from Mr King that keeps coming back to me is: - "I'm all or nothing sweetheart, when I do something, I do it with everything I've got." – Super hot
And Natalie’s reply is just as hot, wanting even: - "I.... ", I stutter, the words faltering and sticking in the back of my throat. Then I look at him, his soft eyes with those mesmerising gold flecks, and I muster up all the confidence I own. "I want you to kiss me, Mr King. "
This book does have a cliff hanger but it made me want to know more and I would have no doubts in recommending this book to everyone
This book starts off telling by telling us exactly what Natalie has gone through in her life and in this day and age I feel it will touch a lot of people out there in that they will unfortunately relate to the circumstances here and to me that made this book more real.
This is a dramatic, mysterious and sexy book; it has some very tender moments in here that will melt your heart.
For a debut novel this is to me a 6 star, I can’t fault it, there was everything in here that I had expected right from the beginning and the book kept me sitting and reading, I hated having to stop reading and actually go to sleep and now I want book 2.
Natalie our leading lady, has been put through hell by her ex and feels she can’t let herself trust anyone, while reading about her story and life I found myself crying in sympathy with what she has gone through it was so emotional and raw that it just broke my heart. I longed for her to find love and peace.
You can tell how Natalie see’s life from the beginning when she makes a statement to herself “Happily ever after was never possible” to me this just shows how unhappy and defeated she felt about her life.
There is still a lot of uncertainty with Natalie, her self confidence has been bashed and bruised for years and the self doubts come in but the good thing about Denham is he is different; he gives a damn about her and will never make her do anything she is not ready for.
The way the scenes are described will make you want more and you will, you will keep reading this book and then at the end you will read again, that is what I did, I have read the book twice now as I loved it so much.
Denham King, well what can I say about him, hot as hell, so sexy he should be illegal, he is funny, dramatic and mysterious and a real man, he is also very protective but so kind and gentle, honestly he is everything you want in a man and more. The way Nikki has described him in this book conjures up imagined in my mind and phew they are HOT. In the words of Natalie, Denham King is OFF. THE. CHART. HOT!!!! That sums it up really
There is so much sexual tension between Mr King and Natalie in this book that you feel it, it is very erotic and yes I was shouting at my kindle “Oh my God, get it on already” but when they do, watch out as it is extremely hot and very sexy to read even I was in need of a very cold shower.
A phrase from Mr King that keeps coming back to me is: - "I'm all or nothing sweetheart, when I do something, I do it with everything I've got." – Super hot
And Natalie’s reply is just as hot, wanting even: - "I.... ", I stutter, the words faltering and sticking in the back of my throat. Then I look at him, his soft eyes with those mesmerising gold flecks, and I muster up all the confidence I own. "I want you to kiss me, Mr King. "
This book does have a cliff hanger but it made me want to know more and I would have no doubts in recommending this book to everyone
July 30, 2014
Book Review: Holding Aces (The Kingdom, #1) by Nikki Groom
Read and Reviewed for: Perusing Princesses
Website: www.perusingprincesses.com
Blogger: perusingprincesses.blogspot.co.uk
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/perusingprincesses
Twitter: @peruseprincess
A titillating, sexy, guilty pleasure read with great flow and strong, likeable characters. Nikki Groom is one to watch!
Holding Aces is a well thought out, contemporary romance with a dramatic edge. This is the story of Arianna; a woman running scared due to a past of abuse and domestic violence at the hand of her ex-fiance, Jonny.
Leaving her life behind, she adopts a new identity in a new town and a year later meets a kind and hard-working man, only to find that three months after marrying him, a heated argument throws up remnants of a past that she longs to forget.
Going to Vegas to meet up with her best friend from childhood is one step closer to home. Finding out said girlfriend is dating the younger brother of a hotel millionaire mogul is just another reminder that she has stayed away for far too long.
Denham King owns Kingdom hotel/casino on the Vegas strip. He's handsome, rich and a bachelor. The ex proved more trouble than she was worth and so now his main focus is making his hotel the success he always believed it to be. No distractions... just work. Until he bumps into (literally) Arianna. Her vulnerability calls to him, her black bruise on her cheek bone a red flag that makes his hackles rise.
Protective, intense, yet charming his instinct to nurture and protect reigns strong as he takes it upon himself to keep a close eye and lavish attention on his new guest.
For Arianna two failed relationships and one divorce on the cards is not a track record to be proud of, but Mr King is different. He's intimidating but compassionate, headstrong yet kind, a real enigma in a world that so far has proven unrelenting in the relationship department. Mr King is not like the others... And she's not sure to run and hide, or embrace the man who can show her what she was really made for.
Him...
Adrianna' s fight or flight personality was what gave us the damsel in distress, broken heroine type with a backstory none too kind. Denham King on the other hand is the hero. The sexy, dominant, possessive, powerful businessman but whom has a real depth of warmth with a beautiful and compassionate heart, you just can't help but fall in love with him.
To watch Arianna rise from the darkness and hold onto something real... something worth holding onto was a beautiful notion and what I loved most about this story.
Nikki Groom may not have brought something unique to the table, but she has certainly delivered a well written and pleasurable read with a great leading male.
After that Cliffhanger ending, I'm looking forward to the sequel and how the characters progress and grow from here. I hope there to be a little more angst and a lot more steam, because what was great about this first instalment is the nurturing...the tension of that kindling flame that burns to a bright inferno towards the end and I admired that.
Great flow, great characters, great story and setting. Now, we just need to know who has the winning hand?!
4- crowns.
Read and Reviewed for: Perusing Princesses
Website: www.perusingprincesses.com
Blogger: perusingprincesses.blogspot.co.uk
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/perusingprincesses
Twitter: @peruseprincess
A titillating, sexy, guilty pleasure read with great flow and strong, likeable characters. Nikki Groom is one to watch!
Holding Aces is a well thought out, contemporary romance with a dramatic edge. This is the story of Arianna; a woman running scared due to a past of abuse and domestic violence at the hand of her ex-fiance, Jonny.
Leaving her life behind, she adopts a new identity in a new town and a year later meets a kind and hard-working man, only to find that three months after marrying him, a heated argument throws up remnants of a past that she longs to forget.
Going to Vegas to meet up with her best friend from childhood is one step closer to home. Finding out said girlfriend is dating the younger brother of a hotel millionaire mogul is just another reminder that she has stayed away for far too long.
Denham King owns Kingdom hotel/casino on the Vegas strip. He's handsome, rich and a bachelor. The ex proved more trouble than she was worth and so now his main focus is making his hotel the success he always believed it to be. No distractions... just work. Until he bumps into (literally) Arianna. Her vulnerability calls to him, her black bruise on her cheek bone a red flag that makes his hackles rise.
Protective, intense, yet charming his instinct to nurture and protect reigns strong as he takes it upon himself to keep a close eye and lavish attention on his new guest.
For Arianna two failed relationships and one divorce on the cards is not a track record to be proud of, but Mr King is different. He's intimidating but compassionate, headstrong yet kind, a real enigma in a world that so far has proven unrelenting in the relationship department. Mr King is not like the others... And she's not sure to run and hide, or embrace the man who can show her what she was really made for.
Him...
Adrianna' s fight or flight personality was what gave us the damsel in distress, broken heroine type with a backstory none too kind. Denham King on the other hand is the hero. The sexy, dominant, possessive, powerful businessman but whom has a real depth of warmth with a beautiful and compassionate heart, you just can't help but fall in love with him.
To watch Arianna rise from the darkness and hold onto something real... something worth holding onto was a beautiful notion and what I loved most about this story.
Nikki Groom may not have brought something unique to the table, but she has certainly delivered a well written and pleasurable read with a great leading male.
After that Cliffhanger ending, I'm looking forward to the sequel and how the characters progress and grow from here. I hope there to be a little more angst and a lot more steam, because what was great about this first instalment is the nurturing...the tension of that kindling flame that burns to a bright inferno towards the end and I admired that.
Great flow, great characters, great story and setting. Now, we just need to know who has the winning hand?!
4- crowns.
February 6, 2015
Holding Aces was a brilliant read for me, the way it was written was not only captivating but you could feel the emotion in the words, the feelings that Natalie had the fear, the hope and the love, it all came through in this book and I loved every single chapter
This book starts off telling by telling us exactly what Natalie has gone through in her life and in this day and age I feel it will touch a lot of people out there in that they will unfortunately relate to the circumstances here and to me that made this book more real.
This is a dramatic, mysterious and sexy book; it has some very tender moments in here that will melt your heart.
For a debut novel this is to me a 6 star, I can’t fault it, there was everything in here that I had expected right from the beginning and the book kept me sitting and reading, I hated having to stop reading and actually go to sleep and now I want book 2.
Natalie our leading lady, has been put through hell by her ex and feels she can’t let herself trust anyone, while reading about her story and life I found myself crying in sympathy with what she has gone through it was so emotional and raw that it just broke my heart. I longed for her to find love and peace.
You can tell how Natalie see’s life from the beginning when she makes a statement to herself “Happily ever after was never possible” to me this just shows how unhappy and defeated she felt about her life.
There is still a lot of uncertainty with Natalie, her self confidence has been bashed and bruised for years and the self doubts come in but the good thing about Denham is he is different; he gives a damn about her and will never make her do anything she is not ready for.
The way the scenes are described will make you want more and you will, you will keep reading this book and then at the end you will read again, that is what I did, I have read the book twice now as I loved it so much.
Denham King, well what can I say about him, hot as hell, so sexy he should be illegal, he is funny, dramatic and mysterious and a real man, he is also very protective but so kind and gentle, honestly he is everything you want in a man and more. The way Nikki has described him in this book conjures up imagined in my mind and phew they are HOT. In the words of Natalie, Denham King is OFF. THE. CHART. HOT!!!! That sums it up really
There is so much sexual tension between Mr King and Natalie in this book that you feel it, it is very erotic and yes I was shouting at my kindle “Oh my God, get it on already” but when they do, watch out as it is extremely hot and very sexy to read even I was in need of a very cold shower.
A phrase from Mr King that keeps coming back to me is: - "I'm all or nothing sweetheart, when I do something, I do it with everything I've got." – Super hot
And Natalie’s reply is just as hot, wanting even: - "I.... ", I stutter, the words faltering and sticking in the back of my throat. Then I look at him, his soft eyes with those mezmerising gold flecks, and I muster up all the confidence I own. "I want you to kiss me, Mr King. "
This book does have a cliff hanger but it made me want to know more and I would have no doubts in recommending this book to everyone
This book starts off telling by telling us exactly what Natalie has gone through in her life and in this day and age I feel it will touch a lot of people out there in that they will unfortunately relate to the circumstances here and to me that made this book more real.
This is a dramatic, mysterious and sexy book; it has some very tender moments in here that will melt your heart.
For a debut novel this is to me a 6 star, I can’t fault it, there was everything in here that I had expected right from the beginning and the book kept me sitting and reading, I hated having to stop reading and actually go to sleep and now I want book 2.
Natalie our leading lady, has been put through hell by her ex and feels she can’t let herself trust anyone, while reading about her story and life I found myself crying in sympathy with what she has gone through it was so emotional and raw that it just broke my heart. I longed for her to find love and peace.
You can tell how Natalie see’s life from the beginning when she makes a statement to herself “Happily ever after was never possible” to me this just shows how unhappy and defeated she felt about her life.
There is still a lot of uncertainty with Natalie, her self confidence has been bashed and bruised for years and the self doubts come in but the good thing about Denham is he is different; he gives a damn about her and will never make her do anything she is not ready for.
The way the scenes are described will make you want more and you will, you will keep reading this book and then at the end you will read again, that is what I did, I have read the book twice now as I loved it so much.
Denham King, well what can I say about him, hot as hell, so sexy he should be illegal, he is funny, dramatic and mysterious and a real man, he is also very protective but so kind and gentle, honestly he is everything you want in a man and more. The way Nikki has described him in this book conjures up imagined in my mind and phew they are HOT. In the words of Natalie, Denham King is OFF. THE. CHART. HOT!!!! That sums it up really
There is so much sexual tension between Mr King and Natalie in this book that you feel it, it is very erotic and yes I was shouting at my kindle “Oh my God, get it on already” but when they do, watch out as it is extremely hot and very sexy to read even I was in need of a very cold shower.
A phrase from Mr King that keeps coming back to me is: - "I'm all or nothing sweetheart, when I do something, I do it with everything I've got." – Super hot
And Natalie’s reply is just as hot, wanting even: - "I.... ", I stutter, the words faltering and sticking in the back of my throat. Then I look at him, his soft eyes with those mezmerising gold flecks, and I muster up all the confidence I own. "I want you to kiss me, Mr King. "
This book does have a cliff hanger but it made me want to know more and I would have no doubts in recommending this book to everyone
August 25, 2016
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Arianna has fled from one abusive relationship to another. Jonny, back in her small hometown in Nevada, is a respected businessman. When his abuse lands her in the hospital for nearly two weeks she escapes to LA where she assumes a whole new identity (as Natalie) and quickly finds herself married to Aaron, an entertainment executive. She then finds out that the man she married is not who he seemed to be and again finds herself in an abusive situation. So when the opportunity to flee to Vegas and start all over again presents itself, she is all over it. It is there Arianna is able to reconnect not only with her best friend, but also with her mother, whom she hasn’t seen in a year and a half, setting herself up to put her life back together.
Denham King is the owner of the hotel that Arianna is staying at. Her best friend’s boyfriend happens to be the brother of Denham and Denham, being the type of guy he is, takes Arianna in and allows her the use of a penthouse suite at the hotel. Denham is your typical tall, dark, rich, handsome alpha male. He knows from the beginning that Arianna is keeping secrets, it’s just a matter of time before he can break down those walls and find out what they are and get her to trust again.
The heat between Arianna and Denham is sizzling and makes for some major sexual tension. There is a lot of the back and forth angsty issues; self-doubt, ex-lovers, lack of communication, etc. that make it a little hard to connect with the characters. Add into it some stereotypical alpha behavior from Denham and you’ve got a formula that we’ve seen before. The storyline is interesting, but it’s not necessarily one that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Arianna and Denham are both holding on to a lot of secrets and couple that with secrets that Arianna’s husband Aaron has and sometimes you just feel a little left in the dark; like you’re just not being let in on the big secret. I really would have liked to see a little more resolution of some of the issues, but we’ll have to wait until the next book for those.
Holding Aces was a quick read and well written. Unfortunately it just lacked that “wow” factor that would make it stand out from any other book with a similar storyline. The simple fact that Arianna, after two abusive relationships would be so quick to jump into a brand new relationship with a relative stranger was unbelievable, and to be honest, made me not like or respect the character all that much. Yes, Denham seemed to be a much different man that the types Arianna usually goes for, however you would expected a whole lot more caution from someone that had been burned more than once.
The book ends on a pretty major cliffhanger so if they’re not your sort of thing, you may want to wait until the next book in the series, High Stakes, comes out this fall. I’m definitely curious as to how the story is going to play itself out and will likely stick around for the next book. A solid three and a half stars.
Arianna has fled from one abusive relationship to another. Jonny, back in her small hometown in Nevada, is a respected businessman. When his abuse lands her in the hospital for nearly two weeks she escapes to LA where she assumes a whole new identity (as Natalie) and quickly finds herself married to Aaron, an entertainment executive. She then finds out that the man she married is not who he seemed to be and again finds herself in an abusive situation. So when the opportunity to flee to Vegas and start all over again presents itself, she is all over it. It is there Arianna is able to reconnect not only with her best friend, but also with her mother, whom she hasn’t seen in a year and a half, setting herself up to put her life back together.
Denham King is the owner of the hotel that Arianna is staying at. Her best friend’s boyfriend happens to be the brother of Denham and Denham, being the type of guy he is, takes Arianna in and allows her the use of a penthouse suite at the hotel. Denham is your typical tall, dark, rich, handsome alpha male. He knows from the beginning that Arianna is keeping secrets, it’s just a matter of time before he can break down those walls and find out what they are and get her to trust again.
The heat between Arianna and Denham is sizzling and makes for some major sexual tension. There is a lot of the back and forth angsty issues; self-doubt, ex-lovers, lack of communication, etc. that make it a little hard to connect with the characters. Add into it some stereotypical alpha behavior from Denham and you’ve got a formula that we’ve seen before. The storyline is interesting, but it’s not necessarily one that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Arianna and Denham are both holding on to a lot of secrets and couple that with secrets that Arianna’s husband Aaron has and sometimes you just feel a little left in the dark; like you’re just not being let in on the big secret. I really would have liked to see a little more resolution of some of the issues, but we’ll have to wait until the next book for those.
Holding Aces was a quick read and well written. Unfortunately it just lacked that “wow” factor that would make it stand out from any other book with a similar storyline. The simple fact that Arianna, after two abusive relationships would be so quick to jump into a brand new relationship with a relative stranger was unbelievable, and to be honest, made me not like or respect the character all that much. Yes, Denham seemed to be a much different man that the types Arianna usually goes for, however you would expected a whole lot more caution from someone that had been burned more than once.
The book ends on a pretty major cliffhanger so if they’re not your sort of thing, you may want to wait until the next book in the series, High Stakes, comes out this fall. I’m definitely curious as to how the story is going to play itself out and will likely stick around for the next book. A solid three and a half stars.
September 28, 2014
WOW is what I want to say first. Second this was a great read for Nikki's debut book.
You live in the dark for so long that when you step into the light you don't know what to do!!
We meet Natalie who really isn't who she says she is. She is actually running from her past, recently married and is coming into a sticky situation again. Her husband Aaron is a mess and wants to start a family. I think he is dealing with stress from work and takes his aggravation out on Natalie. What happens is every woman's worse nightmare. What does Natalie do? She runs and I hope most woman would too. At least leave for the night let things cool down and then go from there. However Natalie she has been in this place before. Her life hung in the balance. She did what came natural to her RUN!!!
While running she called 2 people from her past. They can't wait to see her again and help her get her old life back.
While waiting to get back on her feet she stays in this hotel, this fancy hotel. While there she meets Denham King OMG total hawtness right there. She doesn't know who he is at frist but she would love to devour him. Yes her feelings are all over the place. She knows she shouldn't be thinking of a stranger like that after fleeing like she did. I mean if you see this hot ass guy who take a look at you and scowls because of a mark on your cheek, and is a total gentlemen you would want to lick him too!!
Denham he know's he has to get to know Natalie. They have this electric connection when they touch. When he touches her it feels like little pin pricks in a good way. He finds out who she REALLY is Arianna and what happens?? She flees again. When this happens her past and her present come crashing together. The last person she wanted to see shows up and she gets so confused as to what is going on. She has feelings for Denham but she doesn't want to open up her heart because every time she does she gets burned, played and beat. Her past is so strong that she doesn't see a future at all. She has lived in the dark that when the light(Denham) is there it takes everything in his power to show her LOVE!!
What I loved was their connection, their innocent feelings for one another. Denham's ability to hold off to take things further with Ari until she is for certain she is ready. They had an easy banter. Well except when Ari would talk herself down in her head.
When they finally were together Denham had said "We fit like you were made for me, just me" um OMG!!! who hasn't had that said to them?
Right when Ari opens up to Denham and her life has taken a turn for the good. She has seen the light and wants to stay in it. All hell comes back with a vengeance. The ending will make you scream, want to throw you kindle and ask " how can she leave it like that?"
I really can't wait for the next book High Stakes which comes out next month Oct 24th.
You live in the dark for so long that when you step into the light you don't know what to do!!
We meet Natalie who really isn't who she says she is. She is actually running from her past, recently married and is coming into a sticky situation again. Her husband Aaron is a mess and wants to start a family. I think he is dealing with stress from work and takes his aggravation out on Natalie. What happens is every woman's worse nightmare. What does Natalie do? She runs and I hope most woman would too. At least leave for the night let things cool down and then go from there. However Natalie she has been in this place before. Her life hung in the balance. She did what came natural to her RUN!!!
While running she called 2 people from her past. They can't wait to see her again and help her get her old life back.
While waiting to get back on her feet she stays in this hotel, this fancy hotel. While there she meets Denham King OMG total hawtness right there. She doesn't know who he is at frist but she would love to devour him. Yes her feelings are all over the place. She knows she shouldn't be thinking of a stranger like that after fleeing like she did. I mean if you see this hot ass guy who take a look at you and scowls because of a mark on your cheek, and is a total gentlemen you would want to lick him too!!
Denham he know's he has to get to know Natalie. They have this electric connection when they touch. When he touches her it feels like little pin pricks in a good way. He finds out who she REALLY is Arianna and what happens?? She flees again. When this happens her past and her present come crashing together. The last person she wanted to see shows up and she gets so confused as to what is going on. She has feelings for Denham but she doesn't want to open up her heart because every time she does she gets burned, played and beat. Her past is so strong that she doesn't see a future at all. She has lived in the dark that when the light(Denham) is there it takes everything in his power to show her LOVE!!
What I loved was their connection, their innocent feelings for one another. Denham's ability to hold off to take things further with Ari until she is for certain she is ready. They had an easy banter. Well except when Ari would talk herself down in her head.
When they finally were together Denham had said "We fit like you were made for me, just me" um OMG!!! who hasn't had that said to them?
Right when Ari opens up to Denham and her life has taken a turn for the good. She has seen the light and wants to stay in it. All hell comes back with a vengeance. The ending will make you scream, want to throw you kindle and ask " how can she leave it like that?"
I really can't wait for the next book High Stakes which comes out next month Oct 24th.
September 30, 2014
I think we (Nicola and Crystal) can both agree that this debut book by Nikki Groom certainly met and exceeded our expectations. It was definitely a page-turner that kept you guessing and on your toes. As far as debut novels go, it’s probably safe to say that Nikki Groom nailed it with this one.
The book begins tragically. A broken relationship and an even more broken woman. Arianna (Ari) was beaten by her fiancé badly enough to be put in the hospital. From there she gathers what strength she has left and runs away. She runs and ends up making a new life for herself as Natalie Jamesson, wife to Aaron. Mind you that Ari is quite good at keep up the charade that is now her life. Until Aaron discovers a secret that she was keeping on a day when he was already under a lot of stress – so he just snaps and leads Natalie down a path that she knows all to well. Except this time, she’s not willing to stick around for the apology or for things to get worse. She packs what she can and just leaves. This is one of the greatest shows of strength we see in Natalie/Ari. She knew this time that she wouldn’t and couldn’t go down that path again, so she just walked away at the first signs of domestic abuse.
Ari travels back towards her old hometown, but reconsiders because she doesn’t want her ex-fiance Jonny to be able to find her. She enlists the help of her old friend Lottie. Part of running away the first time meant that she had cut ties with both her mother and her best friend. It was just better this way so there was no clear path to be found by Jonny. Lottie directs Ari to Las Vegas where her boyfriend’s brother runs a casino and hotel that Ari can stay at for a few days until she gets her bearings.
And in walks the gorgeous Denham King. Man, oh man, what a lovely specimen he is too. He has just the right amount of badass power to sensual lover. He is immediately taken with Ari, but her understandable skittish nature means he has to work extra hard for it. Slowly, but surely, Denham is able to peel back the layers to Ari’s broken heart and she timidly lets him. It takes a while, but they are finally able to embark on a special journey together where he just might be able to heal old wounds for her. Denham is written as a slight enigma in that he is very powerful in his business, but he doesn’t use that to impress Ari. He’s more interested in getting to the parts of her that he can tell she’s carefully constructed a façade around.
And that cliffhanger…well, let’s just say that neither of us can wait for the conclusion. You won’t be sorry if you give this book a shot! A definite winner from a first-time author!
5 Golden Apples
The book begins tragically. A broken relationship and an even more broken woman. Arianna (Ari) was beaten by her fiancé badly enough to be put in the hospital. From there she gathers what strength she has left and runs away. She runs and ends up making a new life for herself as Natalie Jamesson, wife to Aaron. Mind you that Ari is quite good at keep up the charade that is now her life. Until Aaron discovers a secret that she was keeping on a day when he was already under a lot of stress – so he just snaps and leads Natalie down a path that she knows all to well. Except this time, she’s not willing to stick around for the apology or for things to get worse. She packs what she can and just leaves. This is one of the greatest shows of strength we see in Natalie/Ari. She knew this time that she wouldn’t and couldn’t go down that path again, so she just walked away at the first signs of domestic abuse.
Ari travels back towards her old hometown, but reconsiders because she doesn’t want her ex-fiance Jonny to be able to find her. She enlists the help of her old friend Lottie. Part of running away the first time meant that she had cut ties with both her mother and her best friend. It was just better this way so there was no clear path to be found by Jonny. Lottie directs Ari to Las Vegas where her boyfriend’s brother runs a casino and hotel that Ari can stay at for a few days until she gets her bearings.
And in walks the gorgeous Denham King. Man, oh man, what a lovely specimen he is too. He has just the right amount of badass power to sensual lover. He is immediately taken with Ari, but her understandable skittish nature means he has to work extra hard for it. Slowly, but surely, Denham is able to peel back the layers to Ari’s broken heart and she timidly lets him. It takes a while, but they are finally able to embark on a special journey together where he just might be able to heal old wounds for her. Denham is written as a slight enigma in that he is very powerful in his business, but he doesn’t use that to impress Ari. He’s more interested in getting to the parts of her that he can tell she’s carefully constructed a façade around.
And that cliffhanger…well, let’s just say that neither of us can wait for the conclusion. You won’t be sorry if you give this book a shot! A definite winner from a first-time author!
5 Golden Apples
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