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Swept Away #1
Illusion
Illusion is the book readers are calling a roller coaster ride of emotions. It's achingly sexy, steaming hot, full of romance and has suspense that will keep you guessing until the last page.Indie sensation and New York Times bestselling author of the Ex Games series and the Private Club series, J.S. Cooper introduces the Swept Away series--three new, dark and sexy romances about a woman marooned on a desert island with a mysterious stranger--but is he friend or foe?The day started like every other day...Bianca finds herself kidnapped and locked up in a van with a strange man. Ten hours later, they're dumped on a deserted island. Bianca has no idea what's going on and her attraction to this stranger is the only thing keeping her fear at bay.Jakob wants only to figure out why they've been left on the island and how they can get off. But as the days go by, he can't ignore his growing fascination with Bianca.In order to survive, Bianca and Jakob must figure out how they're connected, but as they grow closer, secrets are revealed that may destroy everything they thought they knew about each other.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 11, 2014
159 people are currently reading
4699 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 320 reviews
November 7, 2014
1 star!
I’m not familiar with this author’s work so I had no idea what to expect but judging from the blurb I had hoped it would be good. While the premise itself is an intriguing one, the execution fell below ground zero for me and for most of the book I was so frustrated I made mad cow sounds because of the idiotic heroine and the plot that seemed to run in circles. As for the ending, I can’t say I didn’t see it coming, but it finally made the book much more interesting. The only positive thing I have to say is that the suspense and desire to know the mastermind behind the hero & heroine’s kidnapping is what made this story a page-turner; all the other parts I had to force myself to finish.
The heroine Bianca is convinced her mother’s death wasn’t just an accident and armed with papers her late father left her, seeks out answers that lead her all the way to the elusive owner of one of the most powerful business corporations in the country. But before she can confront him, she gets kidnapped and taken to a remote island with another guy, the hero Jakob. Not knowing who he is, where they are, and why they’re there, Bianca reluctantly teams up with Jakob to get off the island and find the mastermind behind their kidnapping, all the while being ridiculously attracted to him.
Like I said before, this book was a real page turner because the suspense was solid. Other than that, however, everything else fell flat…starting with the awful heroine and her best friend. Literally every other page I could pick on something they did or say that drove me bonkers, whether it was Bianca’s terrible survival skills, her completely unnecessary spouting of random & useless movie facts, or both of their stupid commentary.
Now for the hero. I think he could almost be the saving grace of this book, except he has terrible taste in women. And by women I mean Bianca.
If she really is his match in everything, then good luck and good fortune to them both.
As for the plot, it was pretty obvious what Jakob’s role was in the whole kidnapping scheme. If the blatant clues dropped in the story don’t give it away, then the blurb for this book does (see his last name).
I will rarely rate books 1 star even if it was terrible to the point I wanted to DNF multiple times but my rationale is if the writing was solid I can give 2 stars. Sadly, not even the writing in this book is worth giving it a shot. The quotes I pulled for my graphics are the best of the crop and even that is a little amateur. I’m a reader who fully utilizes the highlight function on my iPad and normally I’d be highlighting quotes – funny, breathtaking, beautiful quotes – from left to right but in this book, I had more quotes that annoyed the crap out of me than ones that stirred any positive emotion. Maybe for longtime fans of this author, this book will be a smashing hit but for likeminded readers, perhaps it is best to skip this one, or at least until the second one releases since this first one ends on a massive cliffhanger.
Illusion is book 1 in the Swept Away series and not a standalone. There is giant cliffy at the end and the story will continue on in book 2 Disillusioned.
ARC provided by Gallery Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not familiar with this author’s work so I had no idea what to expect but judging from the blurb I had hoped it would be good. While the premise itself is an intriguing one, the execution fell below ground zero for me and for most of the book I was so frustrated I made mad cow sounds because of the idiotic heroine and the plot that seemed to run in circles. As for the ending, I can’t say I didn’t see it coming, but it finally made the book much more interesting. The only positive thing I have to say is that the suspense and desire to know the mastermind behind the hero & heroine’s kidnapping is what made this story a page-turner; all the other parts I had to force myself to finish.
The heroine Bianca is convinced her mother’s death wasn’t just an accident and armed with papers her late father left her, seeks out answers that lead her all the way to the elusive owner of one of the most powerful business corporations in the country. But before she can confront him, she gets kidnapped and taken to a remote island with another guy, the hero Jakob. Not knowing who he is, where they are, and why they’re there, Bianca reluctantly teams up with Jakob to get off the island and find the mastermind behind their kidnapping, all the while being ridiculously attracted to him.
Like I said before, this book was a real page turner because the suspense was solid. Other than that, however, everything else fell flat…starting with the awful heroine and her best friend. Literally every other page I could pick on something they did or say that drove me bonkers, whether it was Bianca’s terrible survival skills, her completely unnecessary spouting of random & useless movie facts, or both of their stupid commentary.
Now for the hero. I think he could almost be the saving grace of this book, except he has terrible taste in women. And by women I mean Bianca.
If she really is his match in everything, then good luck and good fortune to them both.
As for the plot, it was pretty obvious what Jakob’s role was in the whole kidnapping scheme. If the blatant clues dropped in the story don’t give it away, then the blurb for this book does (see his last name).
I will rarely rate books 1 star even if it was terrible to the point I wanted to DNF multiple times but my rationale is if the writing was solid I can give 2 stars. Sadly, not even the writing in this book is worth giving it a shot. The quotes I pulled for my graphics are the best of the crop and even that is a little amateur. I’m a reader who fully utilizes the highlight function on my iPad and normally I’d be highlighting quotes – funny, breathtaking, beautiful quotes – from left to right but in this book, I had more quotes that annoyed the crap out of me than ones that stirred any positive emotion. Maybe for longtime fans of this author, this book will be a smashing hit but for likeminded readers, perhaps it is best to skip this one, or at least until the second one releases since this first one ends on a massive cliffhanger.
Illusion is book 1 in the Swept Away series and not a standalone. There is giant cliffy at the end and the story will continue on in book 2 Disillusioned.
ARC provided by Gallery Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 10, 2014
3 Stars
I am seriously not even sure where to start with this one. Like the book, my review will probably be all over the place.
I was completely torn about my rating because this book had me so frustrated and annoyed that I wanted to DNF, but then I couldn’t quit reading it because I wanted to see what would happen. What’s worse then that, I feel like I need to read the sequel. So I decided on a three star review. This book is frustrating, but in the same respect there is something about it that keeps you engaged. Would I recommend this book to others…probably not.
Bianca London is left alone after both her parents die. Her mother died years prior in a car accident, and it isn’t until her father’s last days does she learn it may not have been an accident.
Once her father passes away Bianca begins investigating, aka drawing attention to herself. These actions lead to her being kidnapped, and placed on a deserted island with Jakob.
No this is for real. This is just the start of the unbelievable, and it really wasn’t the worst. The fact that Bianca missed tons of clues and hints, was as frustrating as her hot and cold behavior.
The most annoying part would come in Bianca’s sharing of useless movie facts. I am not sure the relevance to these facts, other than to drive me and Jakob crazy. Now Jakob isn't innocence, he quoted famous lines and passed them off as his own. So between our movie facts and famous quotes, there was a quite a bit of superfluous narrative.
The story continues and the couple get to know each other, sort of, and things do get hot. I am not sure how a character can be so naive, but it isn’t a trait I enjoy in a character so I am currently Team Jakob. So as I read the sequel I will be hoping for a positive outcome for him.
Like I said, I am not sure how to rate a book a book that had me frustrated/cringing, but wanting to read the sequel. So I am going go split it in half, read it at your own risk. I seriously hope you enjoy it more than I did.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
I am seriously not even sure where to start with this one. Like the book, my review will probably be all over the place.
I was completely torn about my rating because this book had me so frustrated and annoyed that I wanted to DNF, but then I couldn’t quit reading it because I wanted to see what would happen. What’s worse then that, I feel like I need to read the sequel. So I decided on a three star review. This book is frustrating, but in the same respect there is something about it that keeps you engaged. Would I recommend this book to others…probably not.
Bianca London is left alone after both her parents die. Her mother died years prior in a car accident, and it isn’t until her father’s last days does she learn it may not have been an accident.
Once her father passes away Bianca begins investigating, aka drawing attention to herself. These actions lead to her being kidnapped, and placed on a deserted island with Jakob.
No this is for real. This is just the start of the unbelievable, and it really wasn’t the worst. The fact that Bianca missed tons of clues and hints, was as frustrating as her hot and cold behavior.
The most annoying part would come in Bianca’s sharing of useless movie facts. I am not sure the relevance to these facts, other than to drive me and Jakob crazy. Now Jakob isn't innocence, he quoted famous lines and passed them off as his own. So between our movie facts and famous quotes, there was a quite a bit of superfluous narrative.
The story continues and the couple get to know each other, sort of, and things do get hot. I am not sure how a character can be so naive, but it isn’t a trait I enjoy in a character so I am currently Team Jakob. So as I read the sequel I will be hoping for a positive outcome for him.
Like I said, I am not sure how to rate a book a book that had me frustrated/cringing, but wanting to read the sequel. So I am going go split it in half, read it at your own risk. I seriously hope you enjoy it more than I did.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2014
5 Kidnapped Stars
So I haven't read any JS Cooper since her Forever Love Series... and holy heck her writing has improved like a champ!!! This story starts off with an eerie bang!
(quote not exact)I saw an older man staring at me from above a newspaper and when I stared at his coffee cup I noticed it wasn't even from this coffee shop
My fathers phone number flashed on the screen of my cell phone. My dead fathers phone number
Our Main character is convinced her mother wasn't killed in an accidental auto accident, her father left her a bunch of clues she cant decipher yet, she feels like she is being stalked, the homeless lady directly across from her bedroom window has fresh highlights and a cartier watch, cops magically showed up at her house and says her land line called 911 and then the cop hands her a blank business card and her dead fathers cell phone calls her and tells her not to let in strangers. With Bianca feeling like she is going crazy she decides she is going to tell her best friend what is going on because Bianca believes her ex boyfriends company (her dad worked for) has something to do with everything. But when Bianca gets to the club and drinks the wine she blacks out and winds up in a moving vehicle with a stranger.
Our MC is kidnapped and taken to an island with oddly the man (Jakob) she sat next to in the coffee shop. A new stranger (Steve) has arrived on the island and our MCs fake a relationship to throw the stranger off.
and my god is it delicious
You look soo sexy... I want to push down on all fours and take you from behind. Ill pull your hair as I enter you, and you'll scream out my name ... come on. lets get some sleep Talk about confused blue ovaries!
Oh sweet baby jesus
I don't know who to trust in this mystery!this book ends on such a CLIFFY!!! Next book not til Spring 2015!!! NOOO
This book seriously fucks with your mind.. you have no idea who is right who is wrong who is lying who is the bad guy!! The sneak peak to book 2 makes me need the book SOOOOOOOOO BAD!!!! ahhhhhh
god I loved this book
November 11, 2014
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
Amazon Buy Link (Pre-Order) ------->>> Illusion (Swept Away)
~~ 5 "I don't know what to think" Stars ~~
So how would you feel and what would you do if what you believed to be the truth was then brought up to question?
What and who would you trust if you were suddenly kidnapped and stranded on an island with a complete stranger?
I don't really know how to write a review for this book because everything that I want to say would definitely spoil this story. So what I have decided to do is just to write my review based on what I was feeling while reading this book.
I'll start by forewarning you that this book is the first book in a three book series and can NOT be read as a standalone. This one ends on a slight cliffhanger, but more of a where is the story going from here?? We do get some answers at the end of this book…..sort of!!! This is the first book I have read by J.S. Cooper and it won't be my last. She has an excellent writing style, that completely sucked me into this story and the characters. The storyline line moved along at a perfect speed. She for surely knows how to keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat. I have to say that I was constantly trying to figure things out as I was reading this story, and I'm happy to say that I figured out one key thing but I still don't know how it plays into this storyline. I am so excited to see what happens in the next two books and where this story is going.
In this book we meet Jakob and Bianca. They are two strangers who are kidnapped together and sent to a deserted island to survive. Bianca knows that what she has been researching is probably the reason she was kidnapped but she doesn't know why Jakob was taken. So over the course of the story Jakob and Bianca have to figure out how they are connected. I will say the author does a great job letting you feel like you figured things out and throwing another wrench into the mix and then you don't know what to think. I liked Bianca's character, even though I thought she was a little too trusting and at times naive, I still thought she was a strong heroine. As for Jakob…..he is a Hero that you are going to want to meet for yourself. I can't even do his character justice. I hated him at times and loved him at others….I am still trying to figure out if he truly is trustworthy. I guess I'll have to wait and see how the story plays out.
We also meet Rosie (Bianca's BFF) and Steve (random person also on island) all I have to say about these two is that I don't trust either of them as far as I can throw them. Something just doesn't sit right with me when it comes to them.
I have to say this book was exactly what I have been looking for lately. I wanted a book that would suck me in, keep me guessing, but still have that great love story with some steam too ;) This book was exactly that. So if you love a Romantic suspense book….then you don't want to miss this one!!!
This book is 100% Book B!tch approved!!!!
Follow Us at :: Book Bitches Blog | Facebook | Twitter
Amazon Buy Link (Pre-Order) ------->>> Illusion (Swept Away)
~~ 5 "I don't know what to think" Stars ~~
So how would you feel and what would you do if what you believed to be the truth was then brought up to question?
What and who would you trust if you were suddenly kidnapped and stranded on an island with a complete stranger?
I don't really know how to write a review for this book because everything that I want to say would definitely spoil this story. So what I have decided to do is just to write my review based on what I was feeling while reading this book.
I'll start by forewarning you that this book is the first book in a three book series and can NOT be read as a standalone. This one ends on a slight cliffhanger, but more of a where is the story going from here?? We do get some answers at the end of this book…..sort of!!! This is the first book I have read by J.S. Cooper and it won't be my last. She has an excellent writing style, that completely sucked me into this story and the characters. The storyline line moved along at a perfect speed. She for surely knows how to keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat. I have to say that I was constantly trying to figure things out as I was reading this story, and I'm happy to say that I figured out one key thing but I still don't know how it plays into this storyline. I am so excited to see what happens in the next two books and where this story is going.
In this book we meet Jakob and Bianca. They are two strangers who are kidnapped together and sent to a deserted island to survive. Bianca knows that what she has been researching is probably the reason she was kidnapped but she doesn't know why Jakob was taken. So over the course of the story Jakob and Bianca have to figure out how they are connected. I will say the author does a great job letting you feel like you figured things out and throwing another wrench into the mix and then you don't know what to think. I liked Bianca's character, even though I thought she was a little too trusting and at times naive, I still thought she was a strong heroine. As for Jakob…..he is a Hero that you are going to want to meet for yourself. I can't even do his character justice. I hated him at times and loved him at others….I am still trying to figure out if he truly is trustworthy. I guess I'll have to wait and see how the story plays out.
We also meet Rosie (Bianca's BFF) and Steve (random person also on island) all I have to say about these two is that I don't trust either of them as far as I can throw them. Something just doesn't sit right with me when it comes to them.
I have to say this book was exactly what I have been looking for lately. I wanted a book that would suck me in, keep me guessing, but still have that great love story with some steam too ;) This book was exactly that. So if you love a Romantic suspense book….then you don't want to miss this one!!!
This book is 100% Book B!tch approved!!!!
Follow Us at :: Book Bitches Blog | Facebook | Twitter
October 23, 2014
This book was much more than you could asked for. Bianca and Jakob capture you from the very beginning. This book is full of suspense, twist and turns. At some points you don't know if your up, down, left or right. This book was written with great details. I was so disappointed when I reached the last page. I wanted the story to continue. I can't wait for book 2 I will be counting down the days!
Arc review must read!!!
Arc review must read!!!
October 31, 2014
All I can say is this is a phenomenal book I could not put it down. It has everything I mean
deception
mysterious
hot guy
hot girl
comedy
you name it and this book has it all. J.S cooper this is my favorite book you have written. I love all your books but this blew me away.
Bionca is a 25 year old girl pretty much alone in this world. She has been trying to uncover some strange things going on in her life. And by chance she meets this man who is just so unbelievably hot. But she is busy so she can't take time to really enjoy him. But wishes she had so move forward and things are really still strange stuff she can't explain. Let's just say she gets kidnapped and finds herself on a deserted island. Only she is not alone at all and they are both so thrown at why they were taken. But they both have secrets of there own.
Let's talk about Jakob yes I am calling dibs he is mine all mine. He really is a great guy and he tries to get Bionca to open up. As time goes on she does start to trust him and he does her. But things are not always as they seem.
I am so blown away by this book it kept me on the edge completely I would feel like yes I knew it or no way. This author is going to do all sorts of things to your mind reading this but so good. Thanks for letting me review netgally.
deception
mysterious
hot guy
hot girl
comedy
you name it and this book has it all. J.S cooper this is my favorite book you have written. I love all your books but this blew me away.
Bionca is a 25 year old girl pretty much alone in this world. She has been trying to uncover some strange things going on in her life. And by chance she meets this man who is just so unbelievably hot. But she is busy so she can't take time to really enjoy him. But wishes she had so move forward and things are really still strange stuff she can't explain. Let's just say she gets kidnapped and finds herself on a deserted island. Only she is not alone at all and they are both so thrown at why they were taken. But they both have secrets of there own.
Let's talk about Jakob yes I am calling dibs he is mine all mine. He really is a great guy and he tries to get Bionca to open up. As time goes on she does start to trust him and he does her. But things are not always as they seem.
I am so blown away by this book it kept me on the edge completely I would feel like yes I knew it or no way. This author is going to do all sorts of things to your mind reading this but so good. Thanks for letting me review netgally.
January 14, 2015
Oh my goodie goodie gum drop. After reading a few good books I have been searching for something that grabs me and wont let me go. Well I got it here with Illusion.
Bianca knows something things she shouldn't. A chance meeting at a coffee shop, threatening notes, and a night out with a friend all ensures Bianca ends up kidnapped and put on a tropical island. However she's not alone. the man she met at the coffee shop is there with her too.
Why would someone kidnap them both? They try to figure it out and it leads to a place you really wouldn't expect. I have to say it's so good and pulling you think you know which way it's going but then a spin gets thrown in. Jakob is such a different character. You know he's had not always the perfect life, but he gets what he wants. He turns hot and cold, and you just want to know what exactly is going on with him.
You get some answers but enough questions are left unanswered you are craving more when the book finishes...did i mention it has a cliff hanger? But I so can't wait for the next one!
Bianca knows something things she shouldn't. A chance meeting at a coffee shop, threatening notes, and a night out with a friend all ensures Bianca ends up kidnapped and put on a tropical island. However she's not alone. the man she met at the coffee shop is there with her too.
Why would someone kidnap them both? They try to figure it out and it leads to a place you really wouldn't expect. I have to say it's so good and pulling you think you know which way it's going but then a spin gets thrown in. Jakob is such a different character. You know he's had not always the perfect life, but he gets what he wants. He turns hot and cold, and you just want to know what exactly is going on with him.
You get some answers but enough questions are left unanswered you are craving more when the book finishes...did i mention it has a cliff hanger? But I so can't wait for the next one!
Want to read
May 25, 2014 WOW. This sounds REALLY good!!!! I can't wait!
A dark and sexy romance about a woman marooned on a desert island with a mysterious stranger—but is he friend or foe?
The day started like every other day...
Bianca London finds herself kidnapped and locked up in a van with a strange man. Ten hours later, they’re dumped on a deserted island. Bianca has no idea what’s going on and her attraction to this stranger is the only thing keeping her fear at bay.
Jakob Bradley wants only to figure out why they’ve been left on the island and how they can get off. But as the days go by, he can’t ignore his growing fascination with Bianca.
In order to survive, Bianca and Jakob must figure out how they’re connected, but as they grow closer, secrets are revealed that may destroy everything they thought they knew about each other.
A dark and sexy romance about a woman marooned on a desert island with a mysterious stranger—but is he friend or foe?
The day started like every other day...
Bianca London finds herself kidnapped and locked up in a van with a strange man. Ten hours later, they’re dumped on a deserted island. Bianca has no idea what’s going on and her attraction to this stranger is the only thing keeping her fear at bay.
Jakob Bradley wants only to figure out why they’ve been left on the island and how they can get off. But as the days go by, he can’t ignore his growing fascination with Bianca.
In order to survive, Bianca and Jakob must figure out how they’re connected, but as they grow closer, secrets are revealed that may destroy everything they thought they knew about each other.
November 19, 2015
Caffeinated Aspects:
The thriller aspect of Illusions was an interesting premise. We go into the tale COLD, only knowing that Bianca is investigating something about her father. Bianca is kidnapped, along with Jackob Bradley a stranger she met only earlier that day. Mysterious notes and a stranger only added to the suspense. (Confession: I accidentally read the novel Charade numbered 1.5 in this series first and it let me know a lot of what was going on. So I am not at all sure if readers will be intrigued or confused with the mystery angle, since my view has been tainted)
Seeing these two strangers work together as they try to decide whether to trust each other created an interested dynamic. I enjoyed trying to piece things together. I did figure things out early but not everyone's intentions are clear. A mysterious stranger created doubt making me unsure.
There is a romance or perhaps physical attractions which led to heated scenes. All against the backdrop of a tropical island. I think it made sense in that emotions were high and we tend to cling to others in times of stress.
Twists and a reveal made for an interesting climatic ending, setting the stage for the next novel in the series. As I said, I read Charade first, so I was able to deduce some things, but the motive is still unclear leaving readers with a lot of questions and a major cliffhanger. It will be necessary to read these books in order.
Decaffeinated Aspects:
I did not like the characters. To be fair, I did not like Bianca after reading the novella Charade, but decided maybe reading it out-of-order was unfair to her. Sadly, my opinions did not change. She is a bit of a tease. I love strong heroines, and Bianca just felt indecisive to me. Jackob was mysterious, but all the sexual innuendos and alpha male personality annoyed me. The most interesting character was the stranger but he had very little page time.
While there is heat in Illusion, I did not feel the chemistry, despite all the ogling the characters were doing. I need to feel the connection, and sadly it all fell flat for me. Worse it felt awkward and crass.
Copy provided by publisher This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
The thriller aspect of Illusions was an interesting premise. We go into the tale COLD, only knowing that Bianca is investigating something about her father. Bianca is kidnapped, along with Jackob Bradley a stranger she met only earlier that day. Mysterious notes and a stranger only added to the suspense. (Confession: I accidentally read the novel Charade numbered 1.5 in this series first and it let me know a lot of what was going on. So I am not at all sure if readers will be intrigued or confused with the mystery angle, since my view has been tainted)
Seeing these two strangers work together as they try to decide whether to trust each other created an interested dynamic. I enjoyed trying to piece things together. I did figure things out early but not everyone's intentions are clear. A mysterious stranger created doubt making me unsure.
There is a romance or perhaps physical attractions which led to heated scenes. All against the backdrop of a tropical island. I think it made sense in that emotions were high and we tend to cling to others in times of stress.
Twists and a reveal made for an interesting climatic ending, setting the stage for the next novel in the series. As I said, I read Charade first, so I was able to deduce some things, but the motive is still unclear leaving readers with a lot of questions and a major cliffhanger. It will be necessary to read these books in order.
Decaffeinated Aspects:
I did not like the characters. To be fair, I did not like Bianca after reading the novella Charade, but decided maybe reading it out-of-order was unfair to her. Sadly, my opinions did not change. She is a bit of a tease. I love strong heroines, and Bianca just felt indecisive to me. Jackob was mysterious, but all the sexual innuendos and alpha male personality annoyed me. The most interesting character was the stranger but he had very little page time.
While there is heat in Illusion, I did not feel the chemistry, despite all the ogling the characters were doing. I need to feel the connection, and sadly it all fell flat for me. Worse it felt awkward and crass.
Copy provided by publisher This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
February 6, 2016
Suspenseful And Mysterious
Bianca begins looking into the possible murder of her mother years earlier, when she finds a letter that her recently deceased father left for her. The letter hints at foul play by one of the wealthiest corporations in the world, a company that her father once worked for. The more digging Bianca does, the more her life appears to be in jeopardy. She wants to get to the bottom of things, but her persistence may cost her dearly.
When Bianca wakes up tied to a stranger in a moving vehicle, she discovers that her fears have come to fruition. She's been kidnapped. She doesn't know where she is or why she's been taken.
Before long, she finds herself stranded on a remote island with the other kidnapped stranger, Jakob. Handsome and charming, she's hesitant to trust him but unable to resist the attraction she feels toward him at the same time.
Over the course of this book, Bianca and Jakob grow increasingly intimate. Eventually, Bianca comes to trust him, despite the deceptions that continue to come to light. Jakob knows more than he's letting on.
Another man turns up on the island, claiming that he woke up on the island after falling asleep at his resort. Immediately, things start getting more strained. It is clear that Steve is trying to drive a wedge between Bianca and Jakob. Bianca doesn't trust the new-comer, despite his claims to want to help her.Things get more tense and eventually come to a head.
At the end of this first book in the series, I was left feeling like I knew virtually nothing. I still didn't know who Bianca could trust, whether or not Jakob was sincere, or what the truth of Bianca's mother's death was. Everything seems uncertain.
I enjoyed this suspenseful book and will continue the series. I did start skimming at times because the island sex with Bianca and Jakob did get to be a bit much at times. I also felt like Jakob and Bianca were all over the map. Jakob seemed bipolar with his drastic mood swings, while Bianca seemed schizoid with her inexplicable and sporadic distrustful freak-outs.
I'm hoping that the second book will provide more answers, particularly concerning Jakob's role in all of this. It is clear that he isn't who he claims to be. With this book's cliffhanger ending, I'm dying to see exactly what happens next.
Bianca begins looking into the possible murder of her mother years earlier, when she finds a letter that her recently deceased father left for her. The letter hints at foul play by one of the wealthiest corporations in the world, a company that her father once worked for. The more digging Bianca does, the more her life appears to be in jeopardy. She wants to get to the bottom of things, but her persistence may cost her dearly.
When Bianca wakes up tied to a stranger in a moving vehicle, she discovers that her fears have come to fruition. She's been kidnapped. She doesn't know where she is or why she's been taken.
Before long, she finds herself stranded on a remote island with the other kidnapped stranger, Jakob. Handsome and charming, she's hesitant to trust him but unable to resist the attraction she feels toward him at the same time.
Over the course of this book, Bianca and Jakob grow increasingly intimate. Eventually, Bianca comes to trust him, despite the deceptions that continue to come to light. Jakob knows more than he's letting on.
Another man turns up on the island, claiming that he woke up on the island after falling asleep at his resort. Immediately, things start getting more strained. It is clear that Steve is trying to drive a wedge between Bianca and Jakob. Bianca doesn't trust the new-comer, despite his claims to want to help her.Things get more tense and eventually come to a head.
At the end of this first book in the series, I was left feeling like I knew virtually nothing. I still didn't know who Bianca could trust, whether or not Jakob was sincere, or what the truth of Bianca's mother's death was. Everything seems uncertain.
I enjoyed this suspenseful book and will continue the series. I did start skimming at times because the island sex with Bianca and Jakob did get to be a bit much at times. I also felt like Jakob and Bianca were all over the map. Jakob seemed bipolar with his drastic mood swings, while Bianca seemed schizoid with her inexplicable and sporadic distrustful freak-outs.
I'm hoping that the second book will provide more answers, particularly concerning Jakob's role in all of this. It is clear that he isn't who he claims to be. With this book's cliffhanger ending, I'm dying to see exactly what happens next.
Want to read
January 3, 2015
November 10, 2014
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
1 star
Ugh. What can I say? I almost quit reading this several times. At about 40%, I decided to jump ahead to 78% (Chapter 10) and continue to read. Turned out to be a good decision because I don't think I missed anything at all. The same conversation was happening at 78% that was happening at 40%.
There were several reasons why I struggled with this novel. There were several inconsistencies in the story line. One major one involved describing Jakob as having "dark brown hair, that's almost black" and then later in the same chapter, Bianca "looked at his golden hair". I was already struggling with a few smaller inconsistencies, but this set me right over the edge. From that point on, it was really hard to read.
Then, there are the straight up unbelievable plot points. Kidnapped and drugged in a busy New York bar. Killing a wild boar with bare hands (havena ye watched Outlander, aye?) Don't get me started on the working cell phone on the island... Puh-lease.
The novel is based around Bianca trying to unravel the circumstances around her mother's death and her father's involvement with his former company. In a normal mystery, the reader would learn new things as the research progresses or the protagonist talks to people related to the case. In this situation, Bianca is kidnapped to a desert island and we, the reader, slowly learn about the circumstances as Bianca retells them in her head. She knows all the details, there is nothing major learned while she is on the island--yet the reader has to endure her ruminations bit by bit in order to drag the story out and I presume, create some tension. Sorry, but the only tension created was my struggling not to throw my Kindle.
1 star
Ugh. What can I say? I almost quit reading this several times. At about 40%, I decided to jump ahead to 78% (Chapter 10) and continue to read. Turned out to be a good decision because I don't think I missed anything at all. The same conversation was happening at 78% that was happening at 40%.
There were several reasons why I struggled with this novel. There were several inconsistencies in the story line. One major one involved describing Jakob as having "dark brown hair, that's almost black" and then later in the same chapter, Bianca "looked at his golden hair". I was already struggling with a few smaller inconsistencies, but this set me right over the edge. From that point on, it was really hard to read.
Then, there are the straight up unbelievable plot points. Kidnapped and drugged in a busy New York bar. Killing a wild boar with bare hands (havena ye watched Outlander, aye?) Don't get me started on the working cell phone on the island... Puh-lease.
The novel is based around Bianca trying to unravel the circumstances around her mother's death and her father's involvement with his former company. In a normal mystery, the reader would learn new things as the research progresses or the protagonist talks to people related to the case. In this situation, Bianca is kidnapped to a desert island and we, the reader, slowly learn about the circumstances as Bianca retells them in her head. She knows all the details, there is nothing major learned while she is on the island--yet the reader has to endure her ruminations bit by bit in order to drag the story out and I presume, create some tension. Sorry, but the only tension created was my struggling not to throw my Kindle.
dnf
November 12, 2014Made it to page 100 barely. The characters were so one dimensional. The heroine grated on my last nerve. The story had potential but sadly I wasn't interested enough to continue. I did go to the end just to satisfy my curiosity to find out who was behind it all. It ends in a cliff. This would have been my first book to read by this author...I'm sad it didn't work out.
November 24, 2015
Illusion by J.S. Cooper is a 2015 Gallery Books publication. I was provided a copy of this an XOXpert, the official street team of XOXO After Dark.
In the interest of full disclosure, I read the novella “Charade” first which is out of order. So, going in, I had a little bit of back story working in my favor. Still, I had no idea what to expect when I started this series. What compelled me to give it a try was the suggestion the story was dark and that had my curiosity peaked.
When Bianca's father passes away, she is left with a mystery to solve which involves her mother's untimely death years ago in a car accident. In order to find the answers she needs, she must attempt to infiltrate Bradley Inc. and get close to Mattias Bradley. But, once she starts poking around, it becomes quite clear someone aims to shut her down.
When Bianca is kidnapped alongside a guy she ran into previously, named Jakob, and they wind up stranded on a deserted island, the guessing game begins in earnest. Who is Jakob, really? Was he in the wrong place at the wrong time? Does he have anything to do with Bradley Inc? Can Bianca trust him or should she be afraid of him?
I am often chided for reading books out of order, but in this case it was a big help in understanding how Bianca got to this point in the first place. I don't know if I would have been able to pick up on the nuances in this book if hadn't read “Charade” first.
Even though I did have a little inside information, this book was still a train wreck. The plot is outrageously ridiculous, but it's the writing and unintentionally funny dialogue that made the book so bad.
Also, be aware there is a HUGE cliffhanger! I do have the third book, but I'm on the fence about continuing on with the series. It depends on whether or not I really want to see the train wreck.
1.5 stars
October 9, 2014
This is one of J.S. Cooper's best stories! Before Bianca' s father passed away he wrote Bianca a letter stating that her mother's death might not have been an accident! When Bianca starts looking into her mother's death, she has someone start following her and starts receiving mysterious phone calls! The next thing she knows, she is locked in a trunk of a car and she is not alone! She is drugged and when she comes to, she is on a deserted island with a man, Jakob who she had a brief encounter with at a coffee shop prior to being stranded on the island. They end up finding a shack and in the shack is two letters. One is addressed to Bianca and the other is addressed to Jakob! As they are trying to figure out why this has happened, a romance starts to develop between Bianca and Jakob. But things are not what they seem! J.S. Cooper takes you through so many twists and turns and the end of the story will make your mouth drop open!
January 30, 2015
I wasn't able to finish this book and after reading the first chapter I gave up...
I haven't read such a bad written book in a log time so I'm happy I gave up and saved my time...so 2 stars was the best I could do...
...and rewrite the whole book :P
Later edit...
So...because of Charade I tried and succeeded to finish this novel but...
The writing was still bad and for two people to live on a deserted island for that amount of time there where many inconsistencies in the story...to many...
But I least I got my answers...and that's what matters :P
I haven't read such a bad written book in a log time so I'm happy I gave up and saved my time...so 2 stars was the best I could do...
...and rewrite the whole book :P
Later edit...
So...because of Charade I tried and succeeded to finish this novel but...
The writing was still bad and for two people to live on a deserted island for that amount of time there where many inconsistencies in the story...to many...
But I least I got my answers...and that's what matters :P
did-not-finish
November 5, 2014DNF @ 11%. No. I just can't do it. I have too many books waiting to be read to be rolling my eyes already over this girl.
November 11, 2014
My Review:
There are four words to describe why I gave this book such a low rating...
Too.Stupid.To.Live.
That's the heroine in this book to a "T". I don't think I've ever disliked a heroine in a book as much as I disliked Bianca. Seriously, her character drove me crazy. She's trapped on a deserted island with Jakob. She catches him over and over behaving bizarrely, lying to her, and just acting completely bat-shit crazy. But then he touches her and she looks at his perfect body and swoons because the guy is sexy. What?!?! Seriously, wtf?
I just didn't get that or get her character. I don't care what kind of sexual chemistry you have with a guy, if you can't trust him, you have nothing and he proved over and over and over again that she couldn't trust him. Seriously, over and over again. And the fact of the matter is...he didn't even like her. He told her at least 20 times that she was after men only for their money. He really hates her...and is messing with her the entire time.
And I kept reading. *sigh* That's on me. I shouldn't have. I should have DNF'ed the book. But I just kept hoping that the author would give me something. Something that would save this book. Something that proved to me that Jakob wasn't an insane psycho and Bianca wasn't a naive bimbo. But nope, it never came. In fact, by the end I was just more convinced that I wasted my time with this book.
And that makes me sad because the premise was good, intriguing, and suspenseful. But there was too much back and forth of the characters motivations for me to like either one of them. Bianca on one page telling Jakob she trusts him with her life and then 3 pages later he shuts his eyes to listen to the sound of water and suddenly she doesn't trust him again?!? Believe me there was plenty that Jakob was doing to make her not trust him, but that? That was not one of them. It's like the characters were completely bi-polar and it happened over and over again with both characters.
I know there are authors out there that different readers just don't connect with. Sadly, I think that J.S. Cooper is one of those for me because there are so many amazing reviews for this book. But I personally just don't see the appeal.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
There are four words to describe why I gave this book such a low rating...
Too.Stupid.To.Live.
That's the heroine in this book to a "T". I don't think I've ever disliked a heroine in a book as much as I disliked Bianca. Seriously, her character drove me crazy. She's trapped on a deserted island with Jakob. She catches him over and over behaving bizarrely, lying to her, and just acting completely bat-shit crazy. But then he touches her and she looks at his perfect body and swoons because the guy is sexy. What?!?! Seriously, wtf?
I just didn't get that or get her character. I don't care what kind of sexual chemistry you have with a guy, if you can't trust him, you have nothing and he proved over and over and over again that she couldn't trust him. Seriously, over and over again. And the fact of the matter is...he didn't even like her. He told her at least 20 times that she was after men only for their money. He really hates her...and is messing with her the entire time.
And I kept reading. *sigh* That's on me. I shouldn't have. I should have DNF'ed the book. But I just kept hoping that the author would give me something. Something that would save this book. Something that proved to me that Jakob wasn't an insane psycho and Bianca wasn't a naive bimbo. But nope, it never came. In fact, by the end I was just more convinced that I wasted my time with this book.
And that makes me sad because the premise was good, intriguing, and suspenseful. But there was too much back and forth of the characters motivations for me to like either one of them. Bianca on one page telling Jakob she trusts him with her life and then 3 pages later he shuts his eyes to listen to the sound of water and suddenly she doesn't trust him again?!? Believe me there was plenty that Jakob was doing to make her not trust him, but that? That was not one of them. It's like the characters were completely bi-polar and it happened over and over again with both characters.
I know there are authors out there that different readers just don't connect with. Sadly, I think that J.S. Cooper is one of those for me because there are so many amazing reviews for this book. But I personally just don't see the appeal.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
dnf
March 28, 2015I attempted to listen to this as an audiobook but DNF’d around 15%.
Bianca is investigating her mother’s death which may not have been an accident like she originally thought. She suspects that her investigations may uncover some sort of cover up, and fears that she is being followed. And just when things start to get creepy she gets kidnapped and dumped on a deserted island with a hot stranger.
I couldn’t read any further after:
- After her kidnapping, Bianca, wakes up tied to a strange man in the trunk of a car, and starts to get aroused when she feels his erection poking her in the stomach.
- Bianca and the stranger (now known as Jakob) are then drugged by bad guys only to wake up some time later having been left tied together on a beach and start bantering about how sexy blindfolds and rope can be when used in the bedroom.
I’m sorry, but shouldn’t they be terrified by their hideous ordeal? Or at least wait until they are untied from each other, or shared some sort of personal conversation before they start bantering and talking about bedroom preferences?
A lot of people seem to really like this book but sadly, I don’t like these characters, or even care who kidnapped them or why, or what may or may not have happened to her mother.
Bianca is investigating her mother’s death which may not have been an accident like she originally thought. She suspects that her investigations may uncover some sort of cover up, and fears that she is being followed. And just when things start to get creepy she gets kidnapped and dumped on a deserted island with a hot stranger.
I couldn’t read any further after:
- After her kidnapping, Bianca, wakes up tied to a strange man in the trunk of a car, and starts to get aroused when she feels his erection poking her in the stomach.
- Bianca and the stranger (now known as Jakob) are then drugged by bad guys only to wake up some time later having been left tied together on a beach and start bantering about how sexy blindfolds and rope can be when used in the bedroom.
I’m sorry, but shouldn’t they be terrified by their hideous ordeal? Or at least wait until they are untied from each other, or shared some sort of personal conversation before they start bantering and talking about bedroom preferences?
A lot of people seem to really like this book but sadly, I don’t like these characters, or even care who kidnapped them or why, or what may or may not have happened to her mother.
November 9, 2014
This book was so mysterious! I was hooked from the beginning and could not put this down. There is so much mystery and suspense - I didn't know who to trust and what to believe. Bianca and Jakob are both trapped on an island together with no idea of how they got there, what their connection is, why they are there and how to get off the island. This book had me questioning everything. The suspense and mystery was really exciting. I can't wait for the next book in this series to hopefully get some answers. What a fantastic start to this series!
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
November 10, 2014
This is one of those book where the synopsis sounds really good, but when you actually start reading it, it really falls flat. The writing for me didn't flow, which made it feel very choppy and hard to keep up with. It was super vague and very confusing. Jakob was "Whats going on?" one minute to a total dick the next. Bianca was just to dimwitted to even want to like. and then throw in Steve out of no where, WTF? When it came down to it, I got about 70% into the book and still didn't want to finish it.
December 29, 2014
There was so much wrong with this book...But seeing as this is the second book that I have read from this author and not cared for, I think this may be just one of those authors whose writing style doesn't jive with me personally. Though I enjoyed the last two chapters of the book, the rest was very hard for me to keep focused on and I never connected with the characters.
November 13, 2014
il·lu·sion
iˈlo͞oZHən/
a thing that is or is likely to be wrongly perceived or interpreted by the senses.
a deceptive appearance or impression.
a false idea or belief
Before I start my review for Illusion by J.S. Cooper, you need to know the meaning of the title. To say it is aptly named is an understatement because the entire time you are reading this book your perception is probably wrong.
Illusion is a mystery/suspense novel. This is not a genre that I am really familiar with. I tend to read only romance, so diving into this book was a new experience for me. I really liked how the entire book I kept thinking that I knew what was happening or was trying to guess what was happening and as much as I think I am a sleuth, J.S. Cooper totally proved me wrong.
Illusion is Bianca’s story….it is her quest to find the truth about the death of her mother from a bedside confession from her dead father. As she is trying to figure out what really happened, she is kidnapped and stranded on an island with a sexy man named Jakob. As both are thrust into surviving on a desolate island, they are trying to figure out how exactly they connect and why they were both kidnapped.
Through questioning each other, Bianca and Jakob begin to put pieces of this kidnapping together, yet they don’t always know when to trust each other. Bianca tends to run her mouth and give away more than she should and Jakob is extremely tight lipped. Even as clues are found, they still don’t want to put all their faith into each other….especially when a newcomer is found on the island.
Jakob and Bianca have chemistry. It is felt pretty immediate. J.S. Cooper can write some steamy, steamy beach scenes. I loved how even with everything going on they had a natural attraction to each other…but will it last when more secrets are revealed?
Illusion sucks you in from the beginning. I was dying to know all along what the tie is between these two and I too wanted the answers to the questions that were plaguing Bianca. I really loved Jakob’s character….he was most definitely swoonworthy and Bianca, who is a movie critic, gave some awesome movie snippets that I truly enjoyed. There is a bit of repetition in the book with Bianca’s thoughts that I would have liked to seen edited out, but Illusion definitely captured my attention and with the cliffhanger, I am eagerly looking forward to book two. I hope you enjoy being on the island as much as I did!
I received this ARC from the publisher for an honest review.
iˈlo͞oZHən/
a thing that is or is likely to be wrongly perceived or interpreted by the senses.
a deceptive appearance or impression.
a false idea or belief
Before I start my review for Illusion by J.S. Cooper, you need to know the meaning of the title. To say it is aptly named is an understatement because the entire time you are reading this book your perception is probably wrong.
Illusion is a mystery/suspense novel. This is not a genre that I am really familiar with. I tend to read only romance, so diving into this book was a new experience for me. I really liked how the entire book I kept thinking that I knew what was happening or was trying to guess what was happening and as much as I think I am a sleuth, J.S. Cooper totally proved me wrong.
Illusion is Bianca’s story….it is her quest to find the truth about the death of her mother from a bedside confession from her dead father. As she is trying to figure out what really happened, she is kidnapped and stranded on an island with a sexy man named Jakob. As both are thrust into surviving on a desolate island, they are trying to figure out how exactly they connect and why they were both kidnapped.
Through questioning each other, Bianca and Jakob begin to put pieces of this kidnapping together, yet they don’t always know when to trust each other. Bianca tends to run her mouth and give away more than she should and Jakob is extremely tight lipped. Even as clues are found, they still don’t want to put all their faith into each other….especially when a newcomer is found on the island.
Jakob and Bianca have chemistry. It is felt pretty immediate. J.S. Cooper can write some steamy, steamy beach scenes. I loved how even with everything going on they had a natural attraction to each other…but will it last when more secrets are revealed?
Illusion sucks you in from the beginning. I was dying to know all along what the tie is between these two and I too wanted the answers to the questions that were plaguing Bianca. I really loved Jakob’s character….he was most definitely swoonworthy and Bianca, who is a movie critic, gave some awesome movie snippets that I truly enjoyed. There is a bit of repetition in the book with Bianca’s thoughts that I would have liked to seen edited out, but Illusion definitely captured my attention and with the cliffhanger, I am eagerly looking forward to book two. I hope you enjoy being on the island as much as I did!
I received this ARC from the publisher for an honest review.
November 10, 2014
4 Mind-Bending Stars!
This book was.... totally different than anything I have ever read. I knew I would be stepping out of the box reading this because it's not my typical read. This book was twisted full of mystery, steam, twists, turns, suspense, heart stopping moments, and had me gripping the edge of my seat wanting to see what was going to happen next. With that said, I did enjoy this book (though I didn't realize it would end on a cliffhanger until I was almost done) and I looked forward to seeing what this author has in store for us next.
Kidnapped. Stranded on a deserted island. Questions.
This is Bianca and Jakob's story. Jakob and Bianca find themselves stuck on an island with no where to go. They don't know each other or how they got there. Questions are at every turn. Who can you trust? Can they trust each other? How did they get there? What is their connection? How can they get off the island? Is their an escape?
Wow. I can't give away any more of this book but just know you are in for one hell of a ride and one hell of a wait for the next book which is due out next Spring. This book had me questioning everything I thought I knew. I mean I didn't and don't really know who to trust. This book was thrilling and I can't wait for the next installment for ANSWERS!
I recommend this book!
Review Post---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2014...
This book was.... totally different than anything I have ever read. I knew I would be stepping out of the box reading this because it's not my typical read. This book was twisted full of mystery, steam, twists, turns, suspense, heart stopping moments, and had me gripping the edge of my seat wanting to see what was going to happen next. With that said, I did enjoy this book (though I didn't realize it would end on a cliffhanger until I was almost done) and I looked forward to seeing what this author has in store for us next.
Kidnapped. Stranded on a deserted island. Questions.
This is Bianca and Jakob's story. Jakob and Bianca find themselves stuck on an island with no where to go. They don't know each other or how they got there. Questions are at every turn. Who can you trust? Can they trust each other? How did they get there? What is their connection? How can they get off the island? Is their an escape?
Wow. I can't give away any more of this book but just know you are in for one hell of a ride and one hell of a wait for the next book which is due out next Spring. This book had me questioning everything I thought I knew. I mean I didn't and don't really know who to trust. This book was thrilling and I can't wait for the next installment for ANSWERS!
I recommend this book!
Review Post---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2014...
October 9, 2014
Illusion by JS Cooper was absolutely amazing! This is one hot and sexy romantic read with dark undertones.
Imagine finding yourself tied up in an enclosed space with a stranger. You're kidnapped and wake up on a deserted island. That's exactly what happened to Bianca London she awakes on the beach tied to Jacob Bradley, the extremely sexy and wealthy man who was kidnapped with her.
Bianca has been looking into her mother's death from many years ago. She had been receiving strange messages and visitors prior to being kidnapped. Bianca just wants to know who took her and what the connection to Jacob is.
Jacob and Bianca have intense sexual chemistry, and the more time they spend together the stronger it is. Bianca just isn't sure if she can trust Jacob.
While on the island, a new stranger shows up out of the blue and the danger and suspense increases. The stranger has Bianca questioning everything she think she knows, and she doesn't know who she can trust.
Will they be saved and discover the truth or will the truth destroy them?
The end of this book will shock you. Just when you think you know what's going to happen, BAM, JS Cooper keeps you guessing.
This is way more than a five star read for me.
Imagine finding yourself tied up in an enclosed space with a stranger. You're kidnapped and wake up on a deserted island. That's exactly what happened to Bianca London she awakes on the beach tied to Jacob Bradley, the extremely sexy and wealthy man who was kidnapped with her.
Bianca has been looking into her mother's death from many years ago. She had been receiving strange messages and visitors prior to being kidnapped. Bianca just wants to know who took her and what the connection to Jacob is.
Jacob and Bianca have intense sexual chemistry, and the more time they spend together the stronger it is. Bianca just isn't sure if she can trust Jacob.
While on the island, a new stranger shows up out of the blue and the danger and suspense increases. The stranger has Bianca questioning everything she think she knows, and she doesn't know who she can trust.
Will they be saved and discover the truth or will the truth destroy them?
The end of this book will shock you. Just when you think you know what's going to happen, BAM, JS Cooper keeps you guessing.
This is way more than a five star read for me.
May 21, 2016
This is absolutely the worst book that I have ever read. I'm angry that it was even published.
The writing is atrocious and I'm convinced they just published the first draft. The story had potential but it was all about the ridiculous 'romance' between Jakob and Bianca.
Hardly anything actually happens when they are on the island and it's completely unrealistic and predictable. The characters are two-dimensional and have the most ridiculous conversations to the point that I wondered if they actually just had the mental capacity of five year olds.
All they do is talk about how much they wish they knew what was going on & wish they could get off of the island while doing very little to actually do so. All Bianca thinks about is how hot Jakob is and how much she wants to trust him but can't. Then she trusts him anyway.... then she doesn't anymore... and repeat...
One minute they are being all serious and the next Jakob is grabbing hold of Bianca's boobs and this continues until you're somehow at the end of the book.
The fact that this is published is an insult to skilled authors everywhere.
The writing is atrocious and I'm convinced they just published the first draft. The story had potential but it was all about the ridiculous 'romance' between Jakob and Bianca.
Hardly anything actually happens when they are on the island and it's completely unrealistic and predictable. The characters are two-dimensional and have the most ridiculous conversations to the point that I wondered if they actually just had the mental capacity of five year olds.
All they do is talk about how much they wish they knew what was going on & wish they could get off of the island while doing very little to actually do so. All Bianca thinks about is how hot Jakob is and how much she wants to trust him but can't. Then she trusts him anyway.... then she doesn't anymore... and repeat...
One minute they are being all serious and the next Jakob is grabbing hold of Bianca's boobs and this continues until you're somehow at the end of the book.
The fact that this is published is an insult to skilled authors everywhere.
November 11, 2014
IMAGINE WAKING UP....TRAPPED IN THE TRUNK OF A CAR....AND THEN DISCOVERING YOUR NOT ALONE. THEN BEING LEFT ON AN ISLAND WITH A STRANGER. BIANCA HAD BEEN RECIEVING MYSTERIOUS CALLS AND WASNT SURE WHAT WAS GOING ON BEFORE BEING KIDNAPPED. NOW SHE'S ON THE ISLAND WITH JAKOB....VERY SEXY JAKOB AND NO CLUE THE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE TWO OR WHY ALL THIS IS HAPPENING. WATCHING AS THESE TWO HAVE TO LEARN HOW TO DEAL WITH EACHOTHER AND THEIR TIME TOGETHER ON THE ISLAND AND DEAL WITH THE LINGERING HEAT AND LUST.
THIS BY FAR IS THE BEST FROM JS COOPER.....IT HAS MYSTERY ANGST DRAMA ROMANCE SEXUAL TENSION AND IS GOING TO BE ANOTHER AMAZING SERIES. ANOTHER HIT!!!!
THIS BY FAR IS THE BEST FROM JS COOPER.....IT HAS MYSTERY ANGST DRAMA ROMANCE SEXUAL TENSION AND IS GOING TO BE ANOTHER AMAZING SERIES. ANOTHER HIT!!!!
May 3, 2015
100 golden stars!!!
Because that's what this book and series freaking deserves!!! And JHC...... I think i just found my TOP 1 favorite book of the year, maybe of the decade!!
I'm utterly speechless right now and my breathing has gone through the roof. Honetsly, WTH was that?? I feel like a wrecking ball hit me right on my head and knocked my senses out cold!
And from where should i start? From the characters or the utter madness that this story is? Because this is the only suitable description for that story that comes to mind: Utter Freaking Madness !!!
But i will give it a try because it really deserves it....
Illusion is the first book on Swept Away series and tells us the first part of Jakob and Bianca's story. A very awesomely twisted love story i have to say!
Jakob Bradley is the CEO of Bradley Inc. and Bianca London is the daughter of one of the founders of this company. After her father's death, she received some papers that had to do with this company and its possible association with her mother's death and so she starts digging. Jakob gets wind of her research and starts worrying that what she could possibly find may mean the end of Bradley Inc.
So, he's drawing a plan where they get kidnapped and left off in a deserted island of the Caribbean. His purpose is to make her trust him so he can be able to find out what she knows.
And that's how their story begins! But not how all this complicated situation did. And Jakob's plan seems to have a more complicated background to it than just learning what Bianca knows.
In this book, there is not even one of the characters that isn't captivating and can make you have a seizure and heart-attack at the same time in a matter of nanoseconds. From the lead characters to the very smallest ones, the intensity that they radiate is astounding and completely breathtaking.
As for the plot, just F***ING GENIUS!!! The way J.S. Cooper develops it has you all the time on your toes and in the very very very edge of your seat. And that's not even accurate! Every single time that you think that you have a situation figured out, then she comes and burns everything that you thought to the ground. Seriously, after a time, i didn't know who should i trust, who was telling the truth, what was part of the plan and what not, what had actually happened and in general, i was in a constant battle of emotions! AND I LOVED IT!!
This series can't be compared with anything that you have read so far because it's just a whole new crazy level of fictional literature. The mystery in it is in epic levels and what makes you feel is out of this world.....
WARNING: The recovery after you read it, it's not an easy case but definitely, one that worths it!!
Because that's what this book and series freaking deserves!!! And JHC...... I think i just found my TOP 1 favorite book of the year, maybe of the decade!!
I'm utterly speechless right now and my breathing has gone through the roof. Honetsly, WTH was that?? I feel like a wrecking ball hit me right on my head and knocked my senses out cold!
And from where should i start? From the characters or the utter madness that this story is? Because this is the only suitable description for that story that comes to mind: Utter Freaking Madness !!!
But i will give it a try because it really deserves it....
Illusion is the first book on Swept Away series and tells us the first part of Jakob and Bianca's story. A very awesomely twisted love story i have to say!
Jakob Bradley is the CEO of Bradley Inc. and Bianca London is the daughter of one of the founders of this company. After her father's death, she received some papers that had to do with this company and its possible association with her mother's death and so she starts digging. Jakob gets wind of her research and starts worrying that what she could possibly find may mean the end of Bradley Inc.
So, he's drawing a plan where they get kidnapped and left off in a deserted island of the Caribbean. His purpose is to make her trust him so he can be able to find out what she knows.
And that's how their story begins! But not how all this complicated situation did. And Jakob's plan seems to have a more complicated background to it than just learning what Bianca knows.
In this book, there is not even one of the characters that isn't captivating and can make you have a seizure and heart-attack at the same time in a matter of nanoseconds. From the lead characters to the very smallest ones, the intensity that they radiate is astounding and completely breathtaking.
As for the plot, just F***ING GENIUS!!! The way J.S. Cooper develops it has you all the time on your toes and in the very very very edge of your seat. And that's not even accurate! Every single time that you think that you have a situation figured out, then she comes and burns everything that you thought to the ground. Seriously, after a time, i didn't know who should i trust, who was telling the truth, what was part of the plan and what not, what had actually happened and in general, i was in a constant battle of emotions! AND I LOVED IT!!
This series can't be compared with anything that you have read so far because it's just a whole new crazy level of fictional literature. The mystery in it is in epic levels and what makes you feel is out of this world.....
WARNING: The recovery after you read it, it's not an easy case but definitely, one that worths it!!
October 19, 2014
I was seriously excited when I heard about this book months ago that it was one of my most anticipated reads for November! I mean, kidnapped, desert island, hot guy? Sign me up! I've also read a few other books about people being stuck on a desert island and really enjoyed them, so I was excited to see if I was going to enjoy this book as much! After reading Illusion, I wouldn't say that it's my top favourite book that I've read about people being stuck on a desert island, but it was really good! This is also the first book I've read from this author, and it's fair to say that I'll definitely be checking out her other books because I really enjoyed this book! I've been meaning to read some of this author's books for ages, but I just haven't gotten to them on my Kindle yet lol! The plot of this book was amazing! It was full of secrets and suspense! I will admit though that that the background of the plot was different to what I was expecting it to be! I was kinda expecting it be quite black and white, but there was a lot to it! It also developed really nicely and there were quite a few hot scenes in the plot too! The characters were amazing, but I did have a few problems with them! Bianca was the main character and she was pretty stubborn in this book! She was in a dangerous situation and she didn't know why, so I could understand why she was a bit stubborn, but she was excessively stubborn! She was also quite self-obsessed at times! I did start to like her more as the book progressed though, and she definitely became a stronger character by the end of the book! I was also able to connect more with her after I heard her story and realised that all she really wanted was answers! She wanted to know who really caused her mum's death and what surrounded her dad's business downfall! Jakob was the love interest of Bianca and he was seriously hot! I just adored Jakob! He took control of the situation he and Bianca were placed in and he was very protective of Bianca too! I wasn't sure if Jakob had any motives in this book at the start or whether it was a wrong-place-wrong-time situation as to how he was kidnapped and placed on the island with Bianca! It was almost like I didn't completely trust him until like 80 maybe 90 per cent through the book, but then it sort of backfired lol! Jakob kinda surprised me with his secret in this book, even though I sort of suspected it when I got about half way through the book! I can't wait to read the next book in this series! I know that it's going to continue Bianca and Jakob's story and I can't wait to see what's going happen next! The ending of this book was also pretty insane, but as I said, I sort of suspected it in a way! It's going to completely change the next book though! The cover for this book suits it perfectly! I love how well it does! The models also make a good Bianca and Jakob! Big thank you to J.S. Cooper for an ARC of Illusion and for having me on the Blog Tour!
October 9, 2014
This is an amazing story by the ever talented J.S. Cooper. Bianca has a dead line for her upcoming movie review, when a handsome man sits at her table at the coffee shop. She is attracted to him, but also distracted by a man watching her. So she rudely and abruptly leaves. She is desperately trying to find out about her father's past business and the death of her mother. Then one night she is drugged and kidnapped and wakes up in the back of a car with a man. Many hours later they find themselves on a deserted island. In this process she realizes the man with her is none other than the man from the coffee shop, his name Jakob. Bianca must find out why they have been kidnapped together or is it because he sat with her. She knows that the business family from her father's past would stop at nothing to keep her from finding evidence of what is rightfully hers. Jakob is gorgeous, mysterious and strong, but her mind won't let her fully trust him, yet her body wants him like she has wanted no other. Jakob is keeping his secrets as well, but finds he is as attracted to her and different than he expected. Yet, they must figure out what connects the 2 of them to be here together. When another man mysteriously shows up on the island, more questions and built up trusts come into question. Will they survive their stay on this island and ever get home? Is there more than just the waves in the ocean that are an Illusion? This book had me spellbound from beginning to end. The amazingly talented J.S. Cooper humbles me with her imagination. The intrigue, surprises, adventure and sexual innuendo will leave you wanting more. As with all J.S. Cooper books you will not want to put down the book until you reach the end. Enjoy!
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