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Strobe

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Strobe, simply put, is a voyeur’s playground. A place where people can heighten their sexual awareness, play with fire, and combust all under the same roof. It’s a place where people come together and a place that can push people apart.

Sloane Renard knows sex.

She knows what the textbooks tell her. She doesn’t know her world is about to be torn upside down by one man. A man who will push her limits and force her to see herself in a new light.

Lennox Coymns knows sex.

He knows how to push the boundaries outside of the bedroom. He doesn't know that one woman is about to make him question everything he thought he knew. A woman who will see past the man he is and into the man he could be.

As Lennox teaches Sloane about the world of voyeurism, she learns more than how to let herself be free with sex; she learns how to be confident and sexy- the kind of woman Lennox desires.

But can sex and love keep themselves separated, or will these two fall under the dark spell that is the hypnotizing lights of Strobe?

139 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 28, 2014

2 people are currently reading
90 people want to read

About the author

Holly Stephens

4 books166 followers
People have often told me that I live in a fantasy world. Little did they know, I was building an empire of stories in my head to one day share.

I'm a mother first, a wife second, and a writer third. I'm so thankful to have been given this chance to get my stories out of my head and onto paper.

When I'm not writing, I sell plumbing (no I'm not kidding) and read romances that leave my heart a flutter. I know a ridiculous amount of pop culture information and can quote certain movies word for word. Music drives me to write and to also sing off key.

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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Profile Image for Books & Vodka Sodas.
1,108 reviews129 followers
April 14, 2014
This story started out a slight struggle for me. Mostly because the beginning of this book was very jarring and very quick for me. I'm not to sure if the author was trying to follow RWA rules for romance but it was like this:

Bam- girl meets boy

Bam- Boy says he likes sex in public

Bam- Girl says ew but I'll try it

BAM- they start the adventure.

I have to be honest, I nearly stopped at this point. This literally all happened in one afternoon. I was torn and thrown off.

However, the author did great and started to slow the story down for us. The progression of the Sloane was very natural for me and I genuinely liked her as a character and lead female in the story because she was very real. She had a venerability that I could relate to as a reader and I found myself totally involved on this journey she was taking with Lennox. Now Lennox was a fantastic Alpha male!

He was on top, he was in charge, he was dominant without being bossy, and boy oh boy did he have my kind of kink going on.

As a whole this story is about voyeurism. The author did a fabulous job is introducing this world to the readers and helping them to understand this seemingly unconventional 'kink' if you will. Most people do value intimacy as something sacred and special. Something not to be shared. Yet, the story opens you up and explains to perfectly how NOT wrong it is to need this story of thing in your intimacy.

I grew right along with the characters. I cried and felt like my world crumbled right along with Sloane. That is important to me that I like the characters in the book. I also like how clever the situations where, and how Lennox gave his commands of her. It was hot, sexy, and romantic all the way to nearly the end, and that is when the story went mucky for me again.

If I am being honest, the beginning and ending were the failing points of the story. It wasn't enough for me to lower my rating anymore because I so appreciated the authors spin on voyeurism, and how she spells it out for the reader. I wish this book had a stronger ending. I wanted something more epic and forbidden from them when they finally got down at Strobe but it left me a slight bit flat. Yet, like I said, the middle meat of the story totally makes up for this.

*I received a FREE copy of this book via The Book Enthusiast Promotions in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Karen Harper.
383 reviews
April 12, 2014
How do you write a review about a book that starts with the words “Sex by any other name is still sex. Or so they say?”. I wondered what I was in for. Why was the book called Strobe? Well, I can tell you that I received an answer for all my questions.
Yes, there was sex in this book, but this isn’t what the book is all about. Sure, the author explores the world of voyeurism through her characters, but, in my opinion, this book is more about testing boundaries, letting go of social norms and ultimately, finding your other half, the person who completes you, not just sexually but as a whole person. THAT is what I came away with after finishing Strobe.
Although this book is essentially about Sloane and Lennox, there were also a supporting cast of characters that kept me entertained and some even annoyed me. The setting of this book was also entertaining because I have never visited New Orleans. Another feature of the book was the chapter headings. I normally don’t take note of them, but these ones caught my attention and each one gave me an insight into what was going to happen next in the book. I think the only thing that annoyed me is that I would have liked this book to be longer.
I gave Strobe 4 and a half stars out of 5, but if I have to round off the number I think it deserves a 5.
Written by Karen from Confessions of a Bookaholic

Profile Image for Jennie.
76 reviews7 followers
April 22, 2014
I had the awesome opportunity to read this book and give my honest opinion on it. I think my exact words to Holly was 'you kicked that books ass and made it your bitch' Do I wish the book was longer..yes. .but isn't that we think of all the great books we read..your always wanting more and yelling at the percentage left on your Kindle because you don't want to leave their world. This book for me had the perfect amount of hot steamy sex, LOL moments, and the perfect characters to pull you in and fall in love with them. All I can say is BRAVO Holly Stephens and I'm on the edge of my seat waiting for your next book!!
Profile Image for Lisa.
370 reviews8 followers
April 29, 2014
Great job Holly!! 4.5 stars. Only downfall was it was too short. Can't wait to read your next book!
Profile Image for Michelle Schroer.
231 reviews2 followers
April 15, 2014
If your mind was set and made up
regarding certain intimate displays, what
would it take to change how you thought?
Would there be anything?
You say no now...wait until you read
STROBE!!
5 Super ***** from this Sassy blogger!!!

This is a full-length novel and has an HEA. There is no cheating.

NOTE: I am not a fan of spoilers...my reviews are vague and have only small parts of the book included. This book has a warning with the synopsis - recommended for ages 18+.

This hot tamale was fantastic! I do mean scorching and I do mean fantastic! I even got out the thesaurus to try to find another word that really says how amazing this book is and well...there isn't one that fits! I'm super excited that we hear from both the Heroine AND the Hero! I just really dig a book that lets me inside the mind of a man!! How amazing would that be to hear what he's thinking and feeling?! The premise of the book is also a bit different from any other in the same genre! I thought it was genius! To use a female college 'student' - and a slightly older male who 'teaches' her to push her own limits. Student and teacher - but not in the traditional sense. Loved it!

Sloane Renard is a very intelligent woman. She's graduated already with honors in Psychology and wanted to broaden her horizon with a little human sexuality course. Little did she know just how those horizons of hers would broaden! She's not a prude, in my opinion, but she does have clear limits and opinions on sex. It was almost strange how candid she was with the topic of sex. She doesn't seem to have any trouble debating about it in class. When the professor has a long-time friend, Lennox come in to help regarding the subject of voyeurism, Sloane is immediately affected. Affected by him! She feels as if she's on display for him and I could almost feel it too! It was palpable, almost a tangible emotion. It seems to go right along with the voyeur theme. I began to have this premonition or tried to see ahead in my mind's eye about what would happen with them, what would bring them together, and how would Sloane react to this very handsome man doing more than just looking at her from across a crowded room? Sloane had strong opinions of what a healthy sexual relationship should look like. She didn't see a need to broadcast it to everyone. But even before talking with Lennox - she is curious why others are interested in that lifestyle. I think that he makes her even more intrigued. It was easy to see that Sloane wasn't the type of girl to be interested in talking with him. So I found it very interesting that she did.

"She was curious. Not because the voyeuristic lifestyle appealed to her, but because she wanted to know why the lifestyle appealed to him."

I feel, in every book I read, there is that pivotal moment for a certain character or relationship. But in this book - there were many! The moment after one of their first conversations is pivotal. Would she give him a chance to show her what he thinks she's missing? I honestly thought there would be more build up - but in hindsight, I'm really appreciative that there wasn't. Another hinging moment happens as each of them are in the moment and Sloane runs - Lennox has never had a woman run from him before. Why is she running? Is she afraid of him, the situation, or her feelings? Here's a man who doesn't fall in love. He gets what he needs and on to the next. Lennox is never in the same spot for very long. But...why is this different? What makes Sloane different to him? I could go on and on but I don't want to give too much away! All of these moments made for a more honest and raw relationship between them. They were practically strangers yet they also seem to act as if they've none each other for years. Generally, insta-love makes me crazy! And although this wasn't necessarily insta-love, it was similar - but it only made what happens between them more endearing! I found myself absorbed in the banter between them. And to read the inner monologue of each character - what they were thinking - was fresh and exciting!

"...this was different. This was intimate. This made things seem real. He didn't have time for real relationships. He had time for himself, end of story."

Sloane finds herself confused and it made me really think, 'could someone really not know what they like or want?' But looking back, that's not really what I should have been asking myself. For instance, you may not know you like pickles until you try them out first. You have to put your own fears of the unknown aside if you really want to experience life. It was drawn in more and more as the book progressed. Watching their relationship evolve, watching Sloan evolve, watching the way Sloane's own evolution changed something in Lennox. At first he's suave and confident. Knows exactly what he wants and calculating on just how to go about getting it. In the beginning, Sloane is careful and guarded. Prim and proper, however not one to back down in defending her beliefs. I know that there are many character descriptions that may seem the same as others you've read. You'd be right. But what you wouldn't be right about is how some of those same descriptions take Sloane and Lennox on a totally different journey! Even though I thought I knew what was coming next - one of them would end up surprising me! That's the tell-tale sign of an author that can really write our socks off! Leading us all down one road with the end in sight - a quick right or left-hand turn to the unknown! I felt so involved and entranced in the story. It was one I couldn't put down and finished in one sitting! It was one that kept me on my toes. It ebbed and flowed with superb symmetry! I strongly urge you to read this book! It will be one you won't soon forget!

Thank you Holly Stephens!! For one HOT HEA!!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
191 reviews8 followers
April 14, 2014
Sloan Renard is your classic bookworm. She thinks she knows all about sex from what her text books have told her, but she quickly learns otherwise when she begins her class on human sexuality. This class was supposed to help Sloan grow her knowledge of others sexual practices through her textbook. Little did she know that she would meet a certain man (Lennox Coymns) that had the ability to show Sloan a different way to view sex and how voyeurism can be perceived in many different ways. “For some it’s seen as an act of eroticism. For others it’s taboo. Sloan saw voyeurism as the latter.” He wanted to open Sloan’s eyes to what she could have it she wanted it.
Lennox is a man who knows what he likes in sex and women. He lives his life on his terms and likes to help others have a safe place to explore their own fetishes. Lennox has no idea what he is getting himself into when he comes to Dr. Breaud’s class (aka. Nate) to help with educating the students on a topic that he is quiet familiar with, the act of voyeurism. Lennox had no idea that he would become utterly speechless when he spotted Sloan in the classroom. But once he saw her he knew he had to help her see a new world, through him and his new club that is opening in New Orleans.
The magical journey of discover that Lennox takes Sloan on is an amazingly, erotic, unbelievable ride. Sloan is apprehensive about their agreement, but does her best to follow through with her promise to trust Lennox. For him to have a chance to show her what she can experience when she let’s herself toss the books to the side and really experience this with him.
The characters in the book are amazing. I enjoyed hearing what Sloan had to say about some of her classmates (Carly and Clayton). I had to laugh when Clayton is bold in class and asks for help in finding the clubs and girls that would want to participate. It was quite humorous to watch as Lennox shut Carly down when she was very blatantly making a pass at him.
This book is a very erotically charged teacher to student relationship. During Sloan’s discovery she finds a new sense of self-worth and confidence that she never knew she had. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Strobe. The connection that Lennox and Sloan develop throughout the book is undeniable, but can they keep it just about sex?
Profile Image for Sarah.
362 reviews3 followers
April 29, 2014
Sloane Renard is a bookworm and brainiac. She’s worked very hard to continue her education and now has to take a class on sexuality as an elective for her psychology degree. Almost everything she knows about sex comes from her textbooks, she hasn’t had much experience as her focus has been finished her degree. She has only had mediocre sex as a quick way to scratch an itch.

As a promoter of underground sex clubs, Lennox Coymns has had women in many different cities. He is kind of a fly by night playboy, only with a woman long enough to open the club and then move on to his next adventure. When he lands in New Orleans, his friend and former professor invites him to speak to his class about voyeurism. There, he feels instant attraction to the sexy librarian appeal of Sloane. Within hours he’s taking her to his club so she can learn more. Within a few more hours she has agreed to try his lifestyle just while he’s in town.

This one left me with a bit of mixed feelings. The story itself is great and the sex is hot. It’s postured to be about voyeurism but it felt to be more of the exhibitionist side. It’s more about the act than watching. I know its picky semantics and really it is two sides of the same coin, but that’s how I see it. The characters are pretty fun, yet not overly layered. There’s enough back story to develop the plot. My issue really comes with the timeline. I don’t get how someone so inexperienced is expected to be fully open and willing to perform kink within a matter of one evening. The initial super quick tempo threw me, but then it relaxed and felt more convincing.

Lennox is a great alpha male who not only rocks his socks at having sexual relations in front of others, but also has a strong dominant streak. Sloane goes through quite a transformation herself. She comes into her own and is more confident and open. I think the author did a great job of using a kink not as often written about. She does a fantastic job of showing the journey of both main characters. I look forward to future titles to see what other kinks she will bring to the forefront.

Rating: 3.5 Stars
Profile Image for She Hearts Books.
2,113 reviews74 followers
April 14, 2014
Sloane is a college student studying psychology and her latest class is on voyeurism. While she knows what books say about it, she doesn't really understand the attraction of watching or letting others watch while in intimate moments. She believes those moments should be private behind closed doors.

While sitting in class one day a gorgeous man walks in to talk to her professor and they can't take their eyes off of each other. There's definitely some chemistry happening there. Lennox is introduced to the class as a bit of a voyeurism expert who will be lecturing and providing feedback. Sloane and Lennox briefly banter in class as he answers a few questions and he is intrigued by her.

He ends up trailing her to the elevator afterwards wanting to talk more with her and change her mind. Once Lennox hears more about her opinion on voyeurism, he asks for the opportunity to open her mind to the possibilities and push her limits. What happens during their time together surprises them both.

I love the chemistry between Lennox and Sloane. From the time they lay eyes on each other in the classroom, they are drawn to one another. Their sexy moments are scorching hot especially the moments at the pool and Mardi Gras. Lennox has some serious dirty talking skills. Don't even get me started on the dirty dancing at Strobe! Whew!

I love that Sloane challenges him just as much as he does her. I think although he hoped he would change her mind about his "kink," I wonder if he believed that she would run when she came face to face with it. It ended up being a surprise in who actually did the running and what caused it to happen. And that soul baring "trust me" moment...holy swoon! I heart Lennox!

I can't wait to read what Holly writes next!
She totally rocked it with this one!

I give Strobe 5 hearts!
Profile Image for Anny hernandez.
1,181 reviews13 followers
April 18, 2014
I was provide a copy of the book by the Author for an honest review.

Oh Wow just finish reading this book, and I love it, love the characters and love how the book turn out to be, and let me just say that it made me see sex from a different view, just love the book, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.

The story begging with Sloane she is taking a class sex education, she knows what the textbooks say, now she is seating down listening to her professor talking about the life of voyeur’s, she Is thinking why would anyone want to have sex in front of other people, while they on the subject, the handsome sexy Lennox walks in, as soon as Lennox say hello to his friend the professor, he staring straight at Sloane, right their one of the student ask him a question, once he answer it he is interested at what Sloane have to say, once the class is over he follow Sloane out and invite her for coffee, once they are in the coffee shop he tell her about the new club in town Strobe, he make a proposition with her, he wants to show her his life style, that's when she knows that her world is about to be turn up side down.

I really love reading this book, I love the way this two characters are with each other, Author Holly Stephens THANK YOU for introducing me to this amazing characters and this awesome book love it.
Profile Image for Jennifer's  Reading.
170 reviews22 followers
April 14, 2014
"Voyeurism can be perceived in several different ways. For some it's seen as an act of eroticism. For others it's taboo."

This is a hot read about voyeurism. Well, not just voyeurism, but sex and not being tied down to what society thinks sex should be. These two main characters have all kinds of chemistry bouncing off each other. In fact, when Sloane first sees Lennox, she almost drops. When he first sees her, he wants her, immediately. Lennox begins to challenge what she thinks of sex and how she views it.

"And what if he enjoyed showing you off to his friend? What if he wanted others to see the beauty in the way he makes your body writhe? What if he wanted the world to hear just how hard you scream when he makes your orgasm?"

This begins the challenge between these two people. Will Sloane change her mind and open up to Lennox? Will he convince her to give him, and voyeurism a chance? Will these two work it all out together?

"Voyeurism is about both sexual partners more so than it is about the ones watching. You are the show, the main event. They are the spectators. You control what happens. You are the one that gives them something to remember and think about days to come."

If you like a little kink, go out and grab this book!! The only downside, I wish it was longer.
Profile Image for Kara.
763 reviews30 followers
November 24, 2014
Review posted at: http://bookcrushbookreviews.com/2014/...

Rating: 3.5 stars

This is hot, quick release...I mean read. Sloane's learning all things voyeurism from Lennox. He takes her on a sexually explorative journey to being more open-minded about what people enjoy in their sexual encounters. Holly had me hooked from her first sentence. The story moved along quickly and I definitely was left wanting more of their story. I felt chapters could've been expanding where many parts could have been given more detail and expanded upon. I enjoyed Holly's writing style and the dialogue was fluid and smooth. The adventures Lennox takes Sloane on we're rewarding in their own ways, but watching her grow was beautiful in building her confidence. I wanted more details of Lennox and Sloane's back story but this could again relate to me just wanting more of them as I enjoyed being part of their journey. Sloane and Lennox's banter had me grinning and the riskiness of their adventures had me squirming. I'd be pleased if we were to see more of Sloane and Lennox in the future. Give this a try and find your next crush!
Profile Image for Philomena Callan Cheekypee.
3,992 reviews430 followers
May 20, 2015
It's times like this I thank the lucky stars that I sign up for blog tours. I don't think I'd have picked this up to read and that would have been a big loss to me as this was a brilliantly written book.

This is a really hot and erotic teacher student story. I found myself trying to read this book as quick as I could as I was so glued to it.

I've got to say this book isn't just about sex. The storyline is brilliant and I loved the other characters as well.

I hang my head in shame while admitting this is the first book I've read by this author. That will definitely have to change as this book was brilliant.

Received in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Dakota Storm.
Author 3 books38 followers
April 18, 2014
Great characters, Lennox is hot as hell, kinky and oh so sexy in bed and out...Sloan is somewhat a nerd, but she's beautiful and just waiting for Mr right. Lennox teaches Sloan to cut loose and experience life and she loves this side of herself. She feels sexy and confident now and Lennox can't resist her pull. Lennox was a free spirited move from women to women around the world until Sloan, he's confused by his desire for her. Love their time together, love Lennox wanting more and feeling so much for her and Sloan him. Very sexy and hot as hell. If your into a little kink or a lot this book is sexy and its for you. 4 stars review by Nanee upallnightreadallday.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Ashley Garland.
56 reviews2 followers
July 2, 2014
Holly did an outstanding job with the characters. Sloane was such a like able character that was easy to relate to. especially being uneducated when it comes to all of the different sexual worlds. You could feel what she was feeling. The nervousness as she went down an uncomfortable path for her. It also showed you that sometimes you need to step out of your element and try new things. Holly did such a great job. I haven't read anything by her prior to this but I will be reading more of her books for sure now.

Read for Summers Book Blog
Profile Image for Kaci .
323 reviews8 followers
May 1, 2014
Great read!!!

I loved the journey both main characters took learning not just each other, but more importantly about themselves. This is the first I've read from this author, but I'm going to be on the look out for more. The storyline kept me interested, and the characters are realistic. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Donna Porter.
1,034 reviews9 followers
April 28, 2014
this book is not for everyone. the story was good, but its not my type of book. I was curious that's why I bought it. I had never heard of this type of club and I wanted to see what it was. I'm not curious anymore
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