Twisted

Twisted #1

by Christa Simpson

Can a man and woman be just friends? After having graduated from law school with honours, Edwin Santora, Abigail’s occasional ex and handsome housemate, could get a job anywhere he wanted. Of all the places to land, why does he take a position with her small firm? As if sharing a house with her irresistible ex wasn't bad enough, it quickly becomes the least of her concerns. When Edwin's macho arrogance begins to seriously affect her dating life, Abigail starts to reconsider their friendship. Not that Edwin believes a man and woman can be just friends anyway. With Edwin's swoon-worthy stunts and fierce persistence, Abigail finds herself catching feelings. When Edwin makes a friendly proposal, no-strings-attached, Abigail can't resist. After some sexy role playing, she finds herself dangerously in love and wrapped back up in Edwin’s powerful grip. Little does he know, she has been keeping a treacherous little secret and has set out to see if he is up for the challenge. When Abigail selfishly risks their relationship to get what she wants, will their friendship pass the test? Or will they give in to the mysterious forces trying to drive them apart?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, New Adult, Amazon, Adult, Contemporary, Friends To Lovers

312 pages, Paperback

First published February 26, 2013

About the author

Bestselling Author of contemporary romances with a twist and erotic thrillers. She is a small town Canadian girl living in Southern Ontario with her husband and two beautiful daughters.

Known for her breezy, entertaining writing style, Christa writes captivating alpha men. Her stories are loaded with passion, suspense and sarcasm. She's an all or nothing kind of girl who is determined to prove you can do anything you set your mind to.

Author of the Bestselling Twisted Trilogy, Twisted Desire, the Destiny Series, Tough Luck, Playing House, and The Black Widow.

Please visit her website for more information about Christa and her books! www.christasimpson.com

Reviews

[Danielle Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This was an emotional roller coaster. I went from 'SQUEE!' to 'Oh no she di'int' to crying to 'WTF's wrong with you jackwads?' to 'awwwww ....' then my heart clenched in my chest, squeezing ever tighter until I felt like I might die.

Then it ended.

Umm..... is book II out yet?????

Christa has a FAB New Adult story here, filled to the brim - actually, overflowing with angst, sexual tension, awesome sex, and a whole whack of bitch-fights.

I.
Love.
Twisted.

Need more now, please!

[Ionia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly, I wish there were half stars available, because I would give this book four and a half stars. I was actually surprised by how enjoyable this book turned out to be. There are so many romance novels on the market with sexy hunks on the cover and I generally try to avoid most of them, for fear that the contents won't have any depth. This book does actually give you many good reasons to keep reading.

Christa Simpson has designed characters that work with each other well. Nothing is simple and the relationships are not only complicated, but filled with the type of sexual tension that you want to see in an adult romance. You aren't sure from the beginning why Abigail feels the way she does, and exploring her relationship with Edwin and his competition makes for an interesting plot that keeps the reader moving forward.

I thought the secondary relationships were handled very well, the friendship between Abby and Aliah was believable and made the characters seem more realistic and the story more grounded. I love it when you get involved in a book and feel like you have known the characters forever. The hate/hate relationship between Maddie and the other women in the book made for interesting dialogue and some tension that I wasn't expecting, making it that much more interesting.

The sex scenes were handled very well and none of them were quite as over the top as I would have expected by the cover. Christa Simpson has a way of alluding to what is happening without having to give the reader every single detail of the act itself, which I appreciated, not particularly being a fan of explicit sex scenes. Some of the scenes seemed a little difficult to believe, but they were fun and made me smile in the end.

There is a bit of a paranormal something going on in this novel, that I am thinking will be explored more in the following books. It was a good start to making the rest of the series even more compelling, and added a bit of an unexpected twist to the book.

Now for the part I didn't love so much. There really is no end to this book. While I do understand that this is a series and all of the loose ends could not be tied up, I did feel the ending was abrupt. It sort of dropped off mid-conversation and I wasn't really expecting that. I would have liked to have seen the book end with hope for the future of the characters you grow to love over this story, rather than the unexpected end it had.

Overall, this is a book that I would feel comfortable recommending to other readers. This author clearly has a good imagination and a talent for her chosen craft. If you like books where there is tension, romance, steam, great character building and more than one book to look forward to, you might give "Twisted" a chance. I enjoyed it very much.

[Christina Montminy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really great book for a 1st time author. I read a lot of books & this book is as good as any I've read from long time published authors. The characters of Edwin & Abby are very easy to like & Ally I love her she's a great support character & as always you need someone not to like & she has that too. I also like that when the book started that we know where it is taking place right off the bat, we don't have to guess where the story is taking place. The characters developed fast so that the we don't have to wait long for the story to set up. I can't wait to read #2 & 3, the ending of #1 has hading me asking when are they coming out so I can get my fix of Abby.

[Tanya Vought · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Christa Simpson’s 1st novel and she nails it! She creates a friendship between two exes to “friends with benefits”. She captivates us with her ability to make us swoon over the leading man, wish we were the so called “Friends with benefits” girl, humor, girlfriend banter, intrigue and more!

The two leading characters (Abby and Edwin) have a past and even live together. Edwin wants more than friendship and can’t stand seeing the woman he still loves dating other men and intrigues her with the idea of “friends with benefits” to get things started again with them.

But what happens when things go well (very well and love exchanged again) but one person won’t compromise on something even when then person you are with is really your soul mate???

I enjoyed the sexual tension, passion, swooning and fabulous love that is shown/shared in this book! Despite the love of the book there was anger and frustration felt and wanting to know answers to questions… and cannot wait until the next book to see where Christa takes us with these two friends/lovers!!

There is an element of mystery in this book as well and I am intrigued and interested in seeing where Christa will take us with that also in the next book/books since there will be 2 more in this series!

I have to say that I loved Edwin! He says lots of wonderful things to Abby… here is an example and he is so right. :) That is her personality to a T and despite it all he loves her!!
He says, “I love everything about you Abby, even that you’re often stubborn, usually sarcastic and always demanding” I just loved him and know you will too!

Anyone who loves romance, intrigue, humor and mystery will love this book!!! You won’t be disappointed that you read/bought it. ;)

Oh and it is only .99 cents right now!!

http://www.amazon.com/Twisted-The-Tri...


**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and am so thankful that I had the opportunity to do so! I look forward with much anticipation for the next 2 books in this awesome series! **

[Gabbie Duran · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this story in preparation for an ARC of the sequel Twist and Turn, and let me tell you, I wasn't prepared to fall in love with the characters. There were times when I wanted to strangle the characters for their actions, but I guess that makes for a really well written book. All I have to say is, be prepared to be drawn into the story and keep wanting to know what will happen next.

[Nicole Colville · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I hadn't read a m/f book in a while when I picked this one up. I really liked the characters Christa has created. It was full of ups and downs and will they won't they moments. I was able to buy the second book almost straight after this one, which I also enjoyed. Thank you for such a good series.

[Kathy Sheehan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Looking forward to the next book to see what happens with Abigail and Edwin.

[♠ Becka & Cerys ♠ | Spitfire Reviews · Rating 2 out of 5]

this book gets 2 stars simply for a few decent, sweet scenes...Most of the book made me want to punch myself in the face repeatedly in the hopes that I would end up unconscious on the floor and the book would vaporize. No such luck.

Maddie is a complete fucking bitch, she pisses me off. Aliah is a selfish mouthy bitch. Hunter makes me fucking sick, I honestly HATED his character. Spencer sort of makes me mad, you leave her but then whine and cry about her not wanting you back?
Jay and Tanner - Just no. I dont even have words.
And last but not least, the lead female... Whiney, selfish, spineless little woman. I hated her, simply hated.
The only character of the book I could get anywhere near a remote liking what so ever to was Edwin (minus the stupid name - "oh hello there you sexy looking greek-god-like hunk of hotness....what is your name?"...."Edwin." *cue all attractive women within a 10ft radius running like the fires of hell are burning their skinny asses*) I thought he was reasonable, a bit of a push over and not alpha enough for my personal taste but he was sweet and it was apparent he cared.

The sex was hot-ish, it didnt do much for me as I didnt feel a whole lot of chemistry between the characters. It may have been the writing style, it just didnt do it for me.

Final complaint.... What a shocking ending. Not yay cliffhanger must read the next book right now type shocking....More "oh, well I saw that coming but I didnt expect that to be the end of the scene" it was very abrupt and a little rushed... Hopefully book 2 will appeal more to my tastes.

For more reviews please check out My Blog

[Alex Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twisted Delivers Sexy, Sassy, Sarcastic Romance

If you’re a reader of new adult contemporary romance, and you’re looking for a New Favorite Author, then look no further than Christa Simpson and her Twisted Trilogy!

In Twisted, the first book of the trilogy, Simpson delivers on her promise of a sexy, sassy, sarcastic romance. Her strong characters, especially the hot, dreamy Edwin Santora and sexy, sultry Abigail Jenkins, have an irresistible chemistry full of angst and sexual tension that leaves readers yearning to find out what happens next.

Simpson has a light, breezy, entertaining style of writing that is easy to read. She skillfully weaves intervals of sassy, carefree banter between the characters, with periods of high emotional drama and sexual tension. If that wasn’t enough, she teases us with the occasional taste of the paranormal. The result is a story that makes it nearly impossible to put Twisted down.

My only disappointment with Twisted was that it ended, leaving me wanting to find out what happens next with Abby and Edwin. Fortunately, it’s sequel Twist and Turn, the second book in the Twisted Trilogy, is already loaded into my eBook reader to satisfy my cravings for more.

[Douglas McLeod · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had heard about how popular the Contemporary Adult genre has been getting lately with the popularity of the "50 Shades of Grey" series, but I thought the whole kink aspect of it might be too much. Regardless, I decided to stick my toe into the pool by picking up this book. Now, I'm warming up to the notion.

Christa Simpson's book was an entertaining read filled with mounds of steamy passion. I was intrigued by the dynamic between Edwin and Abigail. They had all the earmarks of a couple who could last forever. I'll admit, I was disappointed with how it turned out in the end. However, since this is the first of a trilogy, I'm looking forward to the rest of the series. I highly recommend "Twisted" for those interested in the genre.

[Jodi Sardina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great book to start off a series! The author goes into great detail letting you discover every aspect of the main characters and their relationships with each other, and the secondary characters. What I love about this book was that it was an exceptional break from reality, while still being realistic. IThe story doesn't seem so far fetched that you couldn't expect to find that it actually happened to someone you know. While we read to escape from our own reality, it is still refreshing to read something that you could actually see happening to yourself, or another. Not all of us have sexy vampires waiting for us at the front door!
I cannot wait to read the next book and see where it leads Edwin and Abby!

[Sophie Koufes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in this amazing series. This book is about a young woman named Abigail and her occasional ex and handsome housemate Edwin. Can a man and woman be "just friends". "Oh My God" I love this book. The storyline is captivating and I was hooked right from the beginning. The character's are hot, sexy and very entertaining that you will fall in love with them. There is drama, intrigue, action and lots of attention to detail which makes it a easy read. This novel is sexy, steamy, romantic, funny, and with a paranormal twist. There is a cliffhanger although it is very much worth the wait. I am very excited to read the next book in this amazing series. I highly recommend reading this book as you will not be disappointed. I was given a free copy in exchange for a honest review.

[KellyJo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ok, so i wanted to punch Abby. Really, her biological clock ticking at 24?? Then she is seeing her dead 6 year twin sister and then you hear nothing of it again?? If I was Edwin I would keep my distance. Poor guy...say goodbye and be done with her!!! I was irritated the whole time reading this book. And to see it is a series...OMG dont think i will read the 2nd one. Especially with the ending that it left you

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. The relationship between Abigail and Edwin is rocky, hot, sexy, complicated....I could go on and on! Abigail is a strong minded woman who knows what she wants....but will Edwin be able to deliver? There is a bit of a cliffhanger, but not to worry....it's a trilogy, so you WILL be able to find out what happens! Great debut novel! :)

[Glenna Maynard · Rating 5 out of 5]

um yeah wow that's how I feel at the moment, I loved this book! Christa Simpson toyed with my paper heart during the course of this story and I loved every moment if it. The plot the characters hell everything was executed wonderfully. I am sitting here with my mouth open with the ending!!! I can not wait to read the next book, I need more of Eddie, Hunter, Tanner in my life. Sexy men!

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, it took me a cpl of chapters to get into but then couldn't put it down. there was quite a bit going on, not only with main characters Abby and Eddie, but with Maddie, Hunter and Aliaha. Can't wait to read the next book x

[Melissa Crump · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book hooked me immediately! I couldn't put it down. It was filled with lots of characters that you fall in love with from the get-go. The story is an awesome story and I felt like I was right there in the story. LOVED IT!!!!

[Tara Simpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book very much, Edwin and Abigail have great chemistry I look forward to reading the next book

[Laura · Rating 1 out of 5]

Drags on. Temper tantrum love story if that's what u want to call it? Maybe the next book will be smoother? Don't understand and the dead twin story not revealed? Head case chick

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

love the characters. i love edwin but abby is getting on my freaking nerves ugh !!!!!! but love the book.

[Shelley Matlack kinder · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book it has its ups and downs but I can't wait for book 2.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book!!!! The cliff hanger at the end just about killed! Can't wait to read the 2nd book in this series!!! :)

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twisted is a hot, sexy, sassy read. Wonderful characters and plot. A great beginning for a trilogy. Love the cover. Looking forward to reading the next one.

[Lovetoread47 · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ok so I almost did not finish this book. There were a few times when I was reading a chapter and just wanted to shut it down and read another book. Other than a few grammatical and spelling errors, the characters were immature and indecisive. There is the living arrangement between the main female character Abigail (Abby) and her ex, Edwin (Eddie). Now this my opinion - I do not think that is healthy at all; especially, if there are still strong feelings. There will never be closure. As predicted, she and Edwin foray into a sexual relationship and they end up falling in love again for each other. I do give Ms. Simpson kudos for including a brief history of Abby and Edwin. Then, there is Spencer, the cop, who seems to still be pining for her and she was not sure of the reason why she and he broke up. Also, there is Tanner, the beach boy god, who she practically gawked, flirted, sent all sorts of innuendos and body language to indicate that she was interested. It was irritating because when they had checked in for their beach cabana reservations she was about to bodily harm the check in receptionist for openly flirting and drooling over Edwin. Ms. Simpson made Abby seem like she was all that from her men to the way she dressed and looked. Moving on to her friends, Madison (Maddie) and Aliah (Aly) who are just as immature and indecisive. Both were fighting over the same man, Hunter. There was some shoving, pushing, name calling and back stabbing that was so immature, high school and unattractive. These are grown arse women. Move on. I thought they did move on when Maddie hooked up with Jay; Aliah hung out with Tanner. Nope, they both still had and wanted their claws on Hunter. Then, there were Abby's halllucinations about her dead twin sister. That just came out of the blue when Abby got lost on the beach trail. Honestly, I thought that was intentional on Eddie's part. When he told her that he would be back and left her, it seemed his intentions were suspicious and nefarous. Anyway, there was a brief history on the twin sister's death, Abby seeing a therapist and taking her meds. There is also the mention of another sister, Aubrey, who is younger and alive. Get this, Abby and Aubrey live not far from each other and Abby claims that Aubrey is always there for her. If that was the case, why is she just mentioned and why was she not invited to their beach getaway? Despite the characters and the roller coaster of emotions, added in characters, confusing storylines and plots, I did reluctantly finish reading the book. The book has a pregnancy, a break up due to wanting a baby and marriage, break up sex, double dating and still co-habitating with the ex who was not an ex and is now an ex. See what I mean. I may be reluctant to continue reading the next books in the series; however, I would like to see if all the characters have their happily ever afters. Until the next review....

[Cheryl K · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am honestly on the fence regarding my opinion of this book. I loved some parts of the story while others made me so angry I wanted to yell at the stupidity and immaturity of the characters. I am invested enough to know I will continue reading the series. Book one has left me with many questions for not only for the main characters (Edwin & Abby) but the supporting characters (Aliah, Maddie & Hunter) and their storylines.
Edwin and Abby have known each other since they were four years old. This on-again, off-again couple share a long and complicated past. Sharing a house makes dating others difficult during their off-again phase; while on-again, I love Abby and Edwin as a couple.
I found Abby’s character to be sabotaging, she is immature, demanding and selfish. She encourages too much drama in her life and has unrealistic, immovable expectations for others. Some of her childish antics frustrated me as a reader but there is no denying how happy Edwin makes her, that is when she quiets her inner voice.
I adored Edwin’s character. He was kind but strong, he is romantic but not cheesy, he is smart and oh so sexy. He knows what he wants and is more than happy to try different approaches to get it.
I look forward to starting book 2 to see how the story unfolds.

[Roger · Rating 3 out of 5]

My first read from author Christa Simpson. A romance that seem to want to be more. I liked it okay, but it seems to be a bit disjointed

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 4 out of 5]

My drama craving heart loved this book. It's a lot like reading a season of one of the best daytime dramas. There's laughter and tears. Truth, lies, and secrets abound. By the time the end comes around I was half in love with Edwin myself and I wanted to take Abigail and shake her asking "what's wrong with you?" And that's a heck of a cliff that we're left hanging from. I think I'm going to one-click book two now. I can't wait to see what happens next.

[Pamela Mitchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic beginning to a new series with complex characters and a riveting plot that kept me entertained, intrigued and glued to the book from beginning to end. I enjoyed the dynamic between Abigail and Edwin and look forward to book two I the Twisted Trilogy.

[Books_is_my_middle_name]

DNF@ 21%. I've got nothing against new adult books, I've read some awesome ones. But this came across more YA than NA and not in a good way.

[RJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read. I could not put it down. This book grabs you from the beginning and you are hooked. I highly recommend.