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Rebound #1

Complications

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After the end of a six-year relationship with an emotionally abusive boyfriend, Olivia Ward wants nothing more than to forget her deceitful ex and rebuild her demolished self-confidence. But when Alex Matlock, a devilishly handsome man with piercing hazel eyes and a beautiful smile, enters her cupcake shop just weeks after her break-up, Olivia knows he's the only one that can break down the walls surrounding her heart.

91 pages, ebook

First published November 1, 2013

23 people are currently reading
601 people want to read

About the author

E. Winters

16 books194 followers

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5 stars
126 (27%)
4 stars
184 (40%)
3 stars
111 (24%)
2 stars
26 (5%)
1 star
12 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Anja.
565 reviews103 followers
August 11, 2016
★★★★4 STARS



Mmmmmmm.. that was so YUMMY


Here's your recipe for a perfect read

№ 1
The heroine has just broken up with her douchebag boyfriend


№ 2
She meets the perfect guy to be her rebound


» and last but not least «

№ 3
Some hot hot hot S.E.X.


The ending was a bit cliffy. That's why I'm going to dive straight into the next book!

Profile Image for Momoftwins02.
148 reviews6 followers
November 11, 2013
I was really, REALLY enjoying this book UNTIL ... it ended! I guess I didn't realize when I got the book (for free) it was one of those "mini" books that only gives you a little taste of the story and then you have to wait and wait and wait to get the next book(s). So, FAIR WARNING, if you hate this as much as I do, wait until a couple more books come out! So frustrating!

OK, having said that, I really did enjoy this book. I truly loved the relationship developing between Olivia and Alex. Olivia has a POS ex-boyfriend who treated her like crap and then, enter Alex. Alex is a smokin' hot, sexy, rich, successful man who see's Olivia in her cup cake shop and can't get her out of his mind. Thank goodness he has the sense to go back to the shop and ask her out because GIRLLLLLLL the alpha-male Alex comes out and your Kindle will melt! HOLLY HOTNESS!!!!! Seriously, when I realized the book ended I wanted to chuck my Kindle ACROSS THE ROOM!! It just wasn't nice at all! Lol!

So, I will sit rather IMpatiently and wait until December for book 2 to come out because the way this book ended was NOT acceptable in my humble opinion!!! Alex HAS TO fix this! Don't let me down Emilia Winters!!!!!!
Profile Image for Jennifer Hines.
Author 5 books80 followers
December 19, 2013
First of all I have to say I felt like this book drops you off right where the middle should have been. The story seemed incomplete and not in a cliffhanger ending sort of way.

Besides that, this was a very good book. I absolutely LOVE how Olivia is a size 12 and curvy. You don’t see many woman like that in books and it was wonderful! She’s recovering from a six year relationship with a man who verbally abused her, took her for granted, and who cheated on her for over a year. Let’s just say she has some self-esteem issues.

Alex on the other hand has plenty of self-esteem. He’s very cocky and arrogant when it comes to getting what he wants, and what he wants is Olivia and all of her sexy curves. But there’s something in his past that keeps him distant when it comes to anything besides the sex. Guess I’ll have to read book two, Distractions, to find out a little more about him and to see if and/or how their relationship continues.

My Favorite Moment: There is just something extremely sexy about a man with the sleeves of his dress shirt rolled up as he’s hand washing dishes.

My Favorite Quote: “The man should seriously be illegal because she couldn’t remember the last time her panties had been this wet.”
Profile Image for Lydiane.
158 reviews16 followers
February 15, 2021
Note:
I gave this one a try after I found that “Emilia Winters” is another pen name for Zoey Draven (“Captive of the Horde King!”). Apparently Emilia writes contemporary (erotic) romance and Zoey writes sci-fi (erotic), good to know.

Tropes:
Instalust, shy heroine, slightly tortured hero, rebound relationship

Overall opinion:
I could tell that this book was one of Ms Winters/Draven’s earliest works, and it showed. This reads like an erotica published by Ellora’s Cave (remember that??? Pepperidge Farm remembers). Since this is the first of the three—which, when combined, is actually a freaking one full-length novel!—I tried to read it with an open mind. I ended up liking it, but I got bored and is now debating if I should pick up the second and third books.

Main characters:
Alex and Olivia, both appeared in the first chapter.

Alex:
Alexander “Alex” Matlock. 30 years old. “Director of Sales” at a tech company. He could be an intriguing hero, but he felt two-dimensional to me. Guess her sci-fi romance heroes had ruined me for her contemporary heroes.

Olivia:
Olivia Ward. Undetermined age (think I forgot or missed this detail, IDK). A small bakery owner. Her whole shticks remind me of none other than KA’s Tess from her “Wild Man” book. She also reminded me of Eve from “Kraving Khiva”, to be honest. Nothing new.

Opening:
A bit meh, a little funny (I liked Beth, Alex’s cousin. I wanted to know whose engagement they were talking about, perhaps I’ll find out if I continue reading.)

Ending:


Steam check:
Descriptive sex scenes (duh), kind of hot, though felt formulaic.
Profile Image for Chery.
173 reviews2 followers
May 2, 2023
Ok so this is my second time reading this book as I read it years ago when it first came out and since book three hadn't been released I left it in my tbr. The book must of impressed me as here I am reading it 10 years later but somehow older I'm not impressed. I gave it 4 stars because well 10 years ago it had me wanting more. Now, I wouldn't have moved on to book 2.
Profile Image for Sharon Van Hooser Thompson.
138 reviews2 followers
February 17, 2024
Complications - Olivia, bakery owner and Alice and Sarah, are her two employees. Miles, a six year boyfriend just broke up with Olivia. Lillian, is her cashier, Alex walks into her bakery and Olivia falls for him. Beth, a cousin to Alex. Loved this book too!
Profile Image for DemetraP.
5,920 reviews
November 2, 2020
This was a very short book, around 100 pages. I liked it, but it felt like a money grab. The book should have been much longer.
Profile Image for RK Poe.
Author 1 book1 follower
June 27, 2014
When I read anything, I look at it as both a reader and a writer. It can sometimes be hard to enjoy a book when you are noticing mistakes (like spelling, grammar, and obvious telling where showing would be better). And this book was no different when it came to that. But it was still a really good read (until the end).

I loved the characters. Olivia (who is not plus sized by today's standards - size 12 is just large) is a character that so many woman can connect to. She doesn't fit into the neat mold that her ex (Miles) believed she should. So he ripped her self-esteem to shreds, then dumps her after a six year relationship.

Enter Alex. A man that, in Olivia's mind, is too good to be true. He's gorgeous (and Winters does a great job and painting the picture), successful and could have any woman he wants. And he wants Olivia.

Throughout the story, Olivia flip flops between being insecure (wondering why he wants her) and enjoying the fact that he does. Then it's over. Her insecurity causes her to overreact and his "issues" causes him not to act until it's too late.

The story is great up to this point. Then it just stops. Suddenly you read the words "End Of Book One". Decisions and actions are just brought to an abrupt halt with no visible conclusion.

This book could potentially be a five star. But the fact that it's not a stand alone piece (the end to this story is in another book), makes it a 3 star. Will I read the next book? Of course. I've developed a bond with the characters and want to see what happens next. But it's so disappointing to know I have to buy a separate book to read the next chapter of this book
Profile Image for Colantha Amo.
27 reviews1 follower
January 5, 2014
As a reader of all kinds of romances, this Complications was a fun quick hot read. I chose to read this as I was curious to see what kind of complications could a hero and heroine get into? And from the sexual play, my complications were to chose when to jump my fiancé after reading this as it was so hot!

The beginning was a bit slow to start but the second part was intriguing to read the passion between the couple. What I would have liked was more conflict as the couple struggled with their past but know it is hard to show it in a short novella.

But as a reader, I love to be squirming when the hero and heroine struggle to get together. I found that the characters were a bit easy to get to know and they just automatically were attracted to each other. While it is hard with a novella, I like to feel their lives and it was limited so it was disappointing to see the ending needed to be read in another book.

The last few chapters definitely made me want me to continue with the second book as the conflict works well to keep the couple away.

I would suggest those that love to have more sexy writing than plot, they check out this novel if they want a contemporary romance or choose this for a yummy erotica read!
Profile Image for Isa Jones (Jo&Isalovebooks Blog).
411 reviews89 followers
January 14, 2014
***I received this book in exchange of an honest review***

As soon as I started reading Complications, I knew I was in trouble, it had a great story behind it, the characters were incredibly well matched and their interaction is cleverly written giving the readers that continuos sense of curiosity.
Alex and Olivia have both been burnt in the past by previous relationships, although we don't get to read too much about Alex in this book, the author has hinted it through the chapters, but as soon as these two meet they can't find that immediate attraction, however what starts as a rebound soon becomes more for Liv, and while she is prepared to open her heart and move forward, Alex on the other hand fights with his emotions and closes up on her with devastating results.
So we are left at the end of this book screaming (well I definitely did), frustrated to find out what happens next, and although I can't fault the author for giving me an amazing read, I did give it 5 stars, I am upset to not have the conclusion in sight, the second book is out now but will this be a trilogy? and if so are we going to left waiting long for that much anticipated finale??
Profile Image for Angie ~aka Reading Machine~.
3,746 reviews134 followers
July 19, 2014
Olivia "Livy" Ward is Cupcake Shop Owner that recently ended her six year relationship leaving her feeling wary and gunshy of men. All that changes when devilishly handsome man enters her shop. Just by his voice alone stirrings of longing surround Olivia in ways that Miles never did. Alex Matlock enters the local cupcake shop with his cousin Beth is blown away by lovely woman behind the counter. Alex hasn't ever known anyone so open and genuine he's taken aback. Alex makes Olivia an offer to be her rebound lover not sure if she'll take him up on it. Olivia is surprised that she's actually taken Alex up on his offer. Can Olivia move past her bad breakup? Can Alex forget Olivia? Can Olivia admit her attraction to Alex? Your answers await you in Complications.

Olivia reminds me of myself after a particularly bad breakup. I know my self-confidence took a nosedive and felt unattractive too. Alex is swoon worthy male with sensual voice and eyes that rivet you in place. The author did an awesome job with the writing and characters. I definitely want to finish this series sometime in the future.
Profile Image for Ruby Madden.
Author 35 books70 followers
February 24, 2014
* light spoilers *

Emilia writes with the wisdom of someone older than her years. There were some stellar one-liners that I highlighted, the kind that make me smile.

A plus-size (although in my world, a size 12 is a great 'normal' size, IMHO), cupcake shop owner, I found Olivia to be simple and sweet but not naive. Olivia is recently licking her wounds from a break-up. Her last LTR ended badly and her ex was semi-abusive. I was sympathetic to that vulnerable place, after separation, where a woman just doesn't feel desirable. How hard it is for her to believe another man might find her attractive.

I like that Olivia took the leap to jump in bed with smoking hot Alex. Alex made it clear from the get-go that he was attracted to her and wanted to be her 'rebound' guy. Thankfully, she took him up on it and discovered a new level to carnal pleasure and intimacy.

I'm looking forward to continuing the series...
Profile Image for Cindy Wells.
Author 1 book6 followers
August 13, 2014
Tasty as Olivia's cupcakes

More like 4.5 stars

A quick read with well-developed characters, a good plot, some steamy moments, and a pretty steady pace. I enjoyed the writer's easy voice in the story and the many delightful descriptions. One of my favorite quotes:

“Olivia heard his voice before she saw him. It was deep and rough. She felt it slide down her body, like the burn of a good whiskey.”

Ooo, can't you just feel that? Awesome!

By the end of the story, I was cursing at my computer screen because of the cliffhanger. (LOL, I did that in my own book...isn't it fun to get that reaction out people?) I want to find out why he reacted that way when his buddy showed up! And I felt so bad for Olivia. I just want her to be happy. I hope this man turns out to be a good choice for her.

A friend on Facebook recommended this book, and I'm so glad I read it. I look forward to more books by Ms. Winters. Thanks for the free read!

Cindy B. Wells
Profile Image for Emily.
5,893 reviews552 followers
April 18, 2016
After being dumped by her boyfriend of six years, Olivia Ward is feeling lost. She works her little cupcake bakery but is still reeling from the hurt and trying to figure out what is next in her life. Alex Matlock was hanging out with his cousin when he entered the bakery, seeing Olivia he knows he wants her in his bed. Olivia though is not falling over herself to get in his bed like most women. When she agrees to a no strings attached affair, Alex can't seem to get enough of her. Alex sees the hurt that surrounds her and he is determined to break down all of her walls, but when Olivia questions what they are he is about to lose her for good.

This is a cliffhanger series. I had not realized it when picking it up, although if I had read the details enough would have seen it. I thought overall good story, chemistry is hot between the two characters. Olivia gets some of her sass back which was wonderful to see her growth. Will probably check out the next book.
Profile Image for Jenna.
20 reviews23 followers
November 12, 2013
I received this book through a LibraryThing giveaway. I often find myself avoiding novellas because they always seem so rushed. I was pleasantly surprised by this one. I felt like the story flowed really well and I didn't feel like it was rushed at all. It was a quick read with likable characters and some steamy love scenes. I love the beauty Alex sees in Olivia. Her insecurities are well warranted considering her previous relationship. Nobody likes cliffhangers but it looks like the next installment will be out soon enough, so I'm okay with waiting. I will definitely continue with this series.
Profile Image for Tanya Santiago.
119 reviews1 follower
May 5, 2017
This was such a good story!! I would have to agree with the others, it was good until it ended. The story was mature and the characters were very likeable and real. It was such a relief to read a story where there is no ridiculously rich guy going for the unexpecting young poor girl. Both characters were head strong and successful in what they do. The average person can really relate to these characters.

I am anxious to read the next installment. Many thanks to the author Emilia Winters for providing me a copy of this story for an honest review. It was a great story and I cannot wait to read the next one!

For more reviews, please visit:

http://phillybookblog.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Leanne Crabtree.
Author 12 books79 followers
May 31, 2015
I liked this short tale.

The connection between our two main characters from early on caught my attention and I even liked their bedroom scenes which seemed to lean more towards the erotica end of things, and that isn't my favourite thing, though I must admit that after the first few scenes I got a bit fed up of the dirty-talk and just skimmed the rest of them.

As for the romance aspect I liked how it was light and easy to read. I just wish we'd had some sort of explanation for why he acted like he did, though since it's in three parts I'm sure it'll come to light in the next book.

I would be interested in continuing the series at some point.
Profile Image for Amy Plank.
375 reviews6 followers
June 25, 2015
Great story with very likable characters. Olivia is coming off of a six year relationship with a guy who put her down and cheated on her. She isn't looking for anything, just working hard at her cupcake store. She is a relatable person, not size zero, extremely beautiful, just an average pretty lady. In walks Alex, he works for a tech company, and is HOT. He ends up asking her out, and she has trouble understanding why he would want to be with her. They both have their own issues to deal with, but you're hopeful that they will make it work. Their is a cliffhanger and it's told from both characters point of view.
Profile Image for Jill.
25 reviews5 followers
November 13, 2013
Usually after reading a novella, I am left feeling rushed, let down, and wanting so much more character development. Emilia Winters did a wonderful job with this story. I was left wanting more, but in a very good way. There isn't a lot of time that passes in the story, and I think that works really well for this novella. Olivia and Alex are both very likable, but they aren't perfect. Their romance is fast-paced and catches like wildfire. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book of the series!
2 reviews1 follower
January 10, 2014
I really liked this book, it's fun, sweet, hot and easy reading, you can easily identify with the characters, it's always nice to read about a gorgeous succesful male character that doesn't seem unreachable, and i really loved olivia being curvy and a size 12 that gives it a sence of reality to me, but i did feel like the story was somehow incomplete. I'm looking forward to the second book, hope it fills the missing parts for me.
Profile Image for Melissa.
1,227 reviews12 followers
January 22, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was a very well written book. The characters were relatable, so much so you found yourself smiling at their banter. The only complaint....is that it ended and is continued! I was so engrossed in the book that I read it through in one sitting without a break. Love the authors style and look forward to more from the author.
Profile Image for Karen.
385 reviews1 follower
November 9, 2013
I received this today via LibraryThing and promptly read it, without even pausing to refill my coffee. Likable characters, great sex, interesting story-line. Only thing keeping this a 5 star rating is having to wait to learn what happens! :) I want more!
Profile Image for Kimberly Anderson .
9 reviews1 follower
January 9, 2014
This book was AWSOME, could not put it down. This book really hit home with me being a curvy girl growing up and being in the same type of relationships as Olivia and Miles'. I hated to are it end can't wait to read the second
Profile Image for Trish.
145 reviews
March 24, 2014
I found this book by a suggestion by one of the bloggers I follow and it was free;) A good book and quick read. The way that Alex and Olivia meet is cute and the banter between them just adds to the story. What started out as something simple just got a little complicated.
Profile Image for CharmaineW .
2,111 reviews11 followers
May 13, 2014
Oh my goodness. Any man that good looking and hot is a sin. Phew Alex makes you weak at the knees. Just a dream BUT what is he hiding.
Olivia is just a lovely down to earth Curvy real woman. Such chemistry.
77 reviews
May 31, 2015
Everyone's dream

A man who accepting of someone as they are --- physically and just relaxed and relaxing. If only we could all just let go of our hang-ups and move forward. However emotions do come into play. May Olivia and Alex grow through their challenges.
54 reviews1 follower
March 8, 2016
This is the second series that I have read by this author. I am becoming a fan of her but I must say some of the things in the story were easy to guess because they were kind of similar to the other series I read. This still was a nice passion filled love story and I can't wait for Book II.
Profile Image for Barbara.
190 reviews33 followers
November 7, 2013
I love love love.. I only have one regret..that I have to wait for the next book to come out & then the last..but loved it..loads of questions needs to be answered..Love love loved it...
Profile Image for Cierra.
18 reviews
February 9, 2014
Really liked this book, but it stops right in the middle of the story.

Thankfully the second one is out so I can start that one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews

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