Gabe Austin is tormented by demons from his past. Blaming himself for his part in a tragic accident and abandoned by his father when he needed him most, he uses his charm, good looks and ripped physique to find temporary solace in an abundance of one night stands. Dominating, distant, unwilling to commit, sex becomes his outlet for his pain.
Until he sees her. One glance was all it took to turn his world upside down, to make him want to possess her completely. Gabe just knew that she was the girl to heal his shattered heart, she was his destiny.
Destined is a standalone humorous erotic romance prequel novella, told from Gabe Austin's point of view, to whet the appetite for Amazon #1 bestselling author C.J. Fallowfield's "The Austin Series."
CJ writes novels in two different genres under different pen names. She has a myriad of titles under her belt, and is proud to be both an independent, and traditionally published, author.
CJ lives in the beautiful English countryside with her significant other, her mum, and three much loved pets, Mr. Pumpkin, feline of mass destruction, Truffle, the troublesome tabby, and Waffle, the boisterous sproodle.
She likes to use many of her own life experiences and countries she’s visited in her novels, and it also helps that she’s a total clutz and walking disaster to draw on for her humour.
As C.J. Fallowfield, she writes sexy, sassy and emotive romance novels that will leave you hot under the collar one moment, have you crying with laughter the next, before she rips your heart out and then slowly rebuilds your faith in a happy ever after.
C.J. is an Amazon #1 UK and international bestselling author of contemporary humorous erotic romance novels and released her debut back in January 2014. Charlotte Fallowfield
As Charlotte Fallowfield, she writes romantic comedy novels that are heartwarming and hilarious with strong female friendships and sweet romance.
Charlotte released Until We Collide, her debut romantic comedy novel, in February 2016. It became an Amazon UK, and international, #1 bestselling contemporary romance, romantic comedy, and humorous novel.
Destined, an Amazon freebie, is the prequel novella to The Austin series. Story follows Gabriel Austin, Gabe from childhood, when tragedy strikes, through adolescence, including his first sexual encounter with an older woman and realizing he is well-endowed.
To cope, in the aftermath of the tragedy, Gabe doesn’t allow himself to get attached to women. He discovers that sex is an outlet for him. But that is until one day, a 19-year old Gabe spots a mysterious dark-haired beauty who will likely rock his world…
It’s hard to rate a novella and add to that that the hero is a child/adolescence. Destined allows a glimpse into Gabe’s dirty mind and his sexual explorations. It’s my prediction, given his obsession with his cock and fucking, that The Austin series will be a smexxxxy read!
*** Hero rating: 3.5 stars Sex scenes rating: 4 stars Sex scenes frequency: 4 stars Plot rating: 3.5 stars Storytelling rating: 4 stars Story ending rating: N/A Book editing rating (5 = no edits spotted): 4.5 stars ************************************************ Overall rating: 3.75 stars
Would I re-read this story: Probably not. Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
In this novella, we follow Gabe and see him growing up. We discover him first as a child at the time of the tragic death of his mother for which he holds himself responsible; then teenager when he has his first sexual relationship with a girl older than him and finally at 19 when he meets a brunette who made him feel new emotions.
It’s is a prequel to the Austin series and gives a good overview of CJ Fallowfield’s writing talents. If you want a short erotic story, it is what you need. Knowing that this will make you want to read the entire series :)
Dans cette novella, nous suivons Gabe et le voyons grandir. Nous le découvrons d’abord enfant, au moment du tragique décès de sa mère dont il se tient pour responsable ; puis adolescent quand il a sa première relation sexuelle avec une jeune fille plus âgée que lui et enfin à 19 ans quand il rencontre une brunette qui lui fait ressentir des émotions nouvelles.
C’est est un préquel à la série Austin et donne un bon aperçu des talents d’auteur de C.J. Fallowfield. Si vous souhaitez une courte histoire érotique, c’est ce qu’il vous faut. Sachant que cela donne quand même envie de lire la série en entier :)
If your up to date with The Austin series you will be aware the author touches upon Gabe's past throughout the series, but doesn't go into full detail. In this book however, we get the full insight to Gabe's life as a child, growing up and the emotional effects that build up from that tragic day.
Reading the story from a child perspective is emotional. You learn of the guilt that Gabe feels from what happened that day, and continues to carry.
The burden that he carries over the years only builds, due to refusing to allow himself to share what happened that day with anyone. He blames himself, and believes even his father would hold him responsible for the events that developed.
Unable to offload, the guilt leaves him a raging body of pent up anger that can only be vented through using his fists, and then the introduction to sex helps him to forget. Allowing him the escapism that he so desperately craves.
We watch Gabe grow, using his good looks and athletic physique to charm the woman with no hidden intentions but to use them for sex.
This is the life Gabe Austin lives. No feelings, no complications. But all that changes the night of his 19th birthday. The night his eyes scout the bar, and they lock with Mia's gaze.
A short read but doesn't disappoint. And if your not aware of The Austin series, this book should draw you in, leaving you wanting more.
I follow the authors blog at http://www.cjfallowfield.co.uk and was as giddy as a school girl when I read there was going to be a prequel and Gabe Austin as the protagonist. Oh how I longed for a peak into his life. Don't get me wrong; I love the other books (thus why I follow the authors blog); but Gabe holds my heart. I was yearning for more insight into Gabes past life. The addition to his relationship with Chelsea really made me understand him more. Although, this book really makes me feel bad for Julie. I feel more connected to Gabe now and it will only make reading the rest of the books (when they are released) that much more exciting. Mrs. Fallowfield did not disappoint there are plenty of steamy sexy scenes in this novella. Which lets be frank, that's what we are all looking for in erotic books. I was not expecting to get a peek into Doug's life and was pleasantly surprised at the addition to this information as well. I will warn you if you read the prequel first you will immediately download the rest of the series-be warned. It's worth it though. Her character developments and descriptions are exquisite. Gabe & Mias journey is a roller coaster that's worth every word you read and emotion you experience.
Destined is a look into Gabriel’s tormenting past and the events that lead up to him becoming the man he is today. It was beyond nice to see the depth of his emotions towards Mia. She did not play a major role but she was clearly his muse/ life line/ the being of his affection. Mia made Gabe feel things he never thought possible. Another wonderful aspect I saw was his relationship with his father. In the first book there is barely a mention but in Destined it goes way deeper. There is a portion of the novella that Gabe resents his father but I understood his pain (the fathers) losing the love of your life is like losing a part of yourself. That is something that cannot be easy for anyone.
UN-PUT-A-DOWN-A-BLE Seriously all other books pale in comparison to the amazingness that is The Austin Series! Yummy yummy yum yum!! Fallowfield has thrown on her gloves and is ready to kick boooty with this one! I cannot recommend this enough y’all!! A must read! ASAP! DO IT!
My Rating 4.5 Christmas, Stairs, Baby, Jam, Hate, New House, Boarding School, Fights, Chelsea, Thirteen, Uni, Swim Team, Canvas, Bar, Nurse, First Sight, Love filled Stars! READ THIS SERIES NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I really enjoyed the writing style and they way I got to see glimpses into the past and present of Gabe. His childhood broke my heart. I did expect it to make him treat women with a little more respect but it did the opposite. I have a very low tolerance for certain issues in romance novels. So some of the actions really bothered me. I hope he turns out to be a good guy but right now ..I don't trust him at all. I did enjoy the interactions between Mia and Gabe once they connected..they seem to have a very strong attraction and also seem to have an entertaining banter. I am not sure of Mia yet ..but will try to give the next book a go to see how I feel about the couple then. I also think that Chelsea should go to jail. Simple as that.
It only took this short novella to fall in love with Gabe, and the rest of the Austin Series just reaffirmed that feeling over and over again. So many emotions generated from so few pages - heartbreak and compassion and lust and hope. You just want to jump into the book and rescue him, take care of him, and then let him take care of you ;) This book is a must-read for fans of the Austin Series.
However, if you haven't read the Austin Series yet, I personally would recommend saving this one until you've at least finished book 1 (New Leaves, No Strings), and maybe even until you've finished book 4, 5, or 6. While it's great to get a glimpse at Gabe's history and what's going through his head, I think you'll appreciate the series even more if you save this book until later. Once read, it can't be unread, and I think you'll have a different experience reading the series without having Gabe's full story. And then, when you reread the series (and trust me, you'll want to reread the series!), you can read Destined as a prequel and fully appreciate the implications of what's revealed as you go through the series again.
Think dirty, hot, sex and no filter and that is what you get with this C.J. Fallowfield novella.
This book will have you reeling and wanting more with the filthy things that are written on the pages and the dirty bathroom sex will leave your mouth wide open but secretly wanting more. Fallowfield has a way with words and a talent unlike no other to write the things that we most desire and make erotically sensuous and provocative.
Gabe is the bad boy that our mothers warn us about, a fathers worst nightmare and every girls wet dream. He will leave you wanting more and desperate for another peek. Fallowfield is amazingly talented with her creativity and sexual exploitation with her latest novel and definitely is a must read for anyone who is looking a short erotic tale.
With this being a Novella of the Austin Series, I know this series will be added to my To-Be-Read bookshelf and a hidden treasure that I will be reading in the midst of the day … while everyone is unsuspecting.
** This is the prequel to book 1 in the series, it will be from Gabriel’s POV**
I received book 1 as an ARC from the author but I was hearing wonderful things about this series so I wanted to start with this prequel to get his POV.
This is the 1st story from this author that I have read. After reading this novella, I couldn’t wait to read book 1 to see what will happen.
I am finding more authors write from a man’s POV and I love that. This just gives us a taste about Gabe (Gabriel) Austin. Gabe is a 19 yr old college student living in England. He has had to grow up fast and basically on his own.
The characters are very strong and loveable. Gabe is British, arrogant, protective, domineering and controlling.
**** This is going to be a must read series****
***Must add to your To Be Read (TBR ) list of books. This is a prequel to 6 books in this series. I can’t wait to start book 1.
I received and ARC in exchange for an honest review of Destined, the prequel to the Austin Series. The was a nice short read, 50 odd pages, so I managed it in about an hour and a half. Having read books 1 - 4 already, I LOVED this. It was a great insight into the mind of Gabe and one of the chapters broke my heart and had me sobbing. CJ has really managed to show another side to Gabe, making it all the clearer why he is so controlling and possessive when it comes to the love of his life, Mia. It was also great to see how he and Doug became best friends. Whilst darker than the actual series, it's so full of emotion and back story, yet CJ still managed to squeeze in some hot scenes, as usual :-) This is a perfect filler for those waiting for the next release, or for a newcomer to give them a taster of what's in store if they pick up New Leaves, No Strings.
Destined was Gabe Austin's point of view of his first time seeing Mia Page and what he endured during his early life. This was a short look into Gabe's life and it will put all of his strong feeling he has for Mia at first site into prospective.
I have to say I did cry but is was a good cry because this story is so powerful and strong that you learn his true feelings and why he feels the way he does. You also see an In site into Doug and Lexi, which I have to say Lexi is a riot !! She is a smart mouth ball of fire that is the BEST friend anyone would be lucky to have. Hope to see more of maybe them getting together too !
Ok onto book 2 because I can't wait any longer !! Way to go CJ !!
This is my first read from this author and I am absolutely enthralled! Within minutes it went from HOT to heartbreaking! I love the clever timeline and really feel like I've had the chance to get to know Gabe and I love this poor, handsome soul! My heart broke for him as a child, so at this point, I'm not sure he can do anything I can't forgive him for! I love being inside his head for the first time he lays eyes on Mia... It is so beautiful and breathtaking and I can't wait for more! My only minor complaint is in the overuse of commas to create long run on sentences... I makes it a bit hard to read and should be edited. Otherwise, this story is addictive and fresh. I'm so thrilled I've found the series and can't wait to devour it!
I love this whole series, but to be able to see more into gabe's life and to see where and how it all started with Kia was just awesome it makes me want to reread the whole series. Gabe had a wonderful childhood with his mother, right up til the tragic accident, then his life started missing wanted things, love, encouragement, a sense of family. Gabe loses his virginity at an early age and realises he loves sex, it feels a void. Then one night at a bar , he sees her the woman he is going to marry mia. He's never felt nothing like it before and the fact its not going to be easy makes it that more fun. To see how it all started awesome love it like I loved the whole series. 5 star and would recommend without a doubt.
It was Ok. Destined is not a retelling of New Leaves, No Strings even though it is in Gabe's POV. Its moreso his background of how he became the Gabe we know through Mia's eyes. Its a very short story that I kinda wish was a little longer. I like how we got a glimpse into his past and what happened to his mom but I wanted to read more about his interactions with Mia during my favorite scenes in book 1. People that know me or for those that read my reviews, I love reading from a male's POV but Gabe's POV fell a little flat to me. Mia's was much more interesting and held my attention longer. Regardless, I will still continue on with this series especially since I already bought book 3.
An authors summary of Destined (The Austin Series Prequel)
So many readers seemed to have taken Gabe Austin to their hearts, that I wanted to give them some background and insight into how he became the man that they knew from The Austin Series.
And who better to tell you than Gabe himself?
The aim was to chart key events in his life that shaped him, gave him his domineering tendencies of possession and control. To show how he'd shielded his own heart, but those defences were completely shattered the first time he saw Mia.
I hope that by reading this novella, you will see that Gabe's intentions are honest and pure and that Mia is undoubtedly the love of his life.
Gabe doesn't do relationships. He does one night stands. He doesn't want to get attached to anyone because of his past. Until she walks into the room and changes everything for him. When Gabe and Mia lock eyes he has to find out who she is and have her in his life. Mia brings out the best in Gabe and breaks down the walls he built around his heart.
I loved reading Gabe's point of view in how they met and learning about the past that is hinted at in the rest of the Austin Series. The moment that changed everything for him broke my heart for that little boy who lost so much and took that guilt upon himself.
Destined by C.J. Fallowfield is a prequel novella to The Austin Series. It is a brief story of Gabe Austin from his perspective from the tragedy that befalls his family at the age of eight and through the pivotal moments throughout his life until he meets Mia.
Very hot and steamy - well paced for such a short story and definitely leaves you more than intrigued to learn more about these people.
♥ This was a fantastic read, it was nice to read about Gabe's background and the reasons for his insecurities. It is a short read, but that's what a prequels all about.
Reading this made me love Gabe even more, thank you C. J for writing this, so now we have some more understanding.♥
Wowzers!!! This is one hot, quick read prequel to the series!
I love the way the story of Gabe is structured, following him through his life from his devastation at age 8, through his troublesome early teens and on into his early adulthood.
We really get to see what shapes this man. My heart breaks for the young boy whose world is shattered. My heart was then pretty quickly disgusted with itself for finding that toilet scene a little too enjoyable!!! And then quickly I fell in love with him.
Lucky for me, I've got the box set, so off I go to acquaint myself with young Mr Austin and his quest to find true love.
Love Gabe!!! I love getting more of him, and getting his thoughts was great. Knowing more about his childhood and knowing his thoughts when he first sees Mia really help to understand him that much better. To see how he felt so intensely and instantly was just WOW. I also loved that it gave more insight to his feeling Mia versus Julie. All I can say is Gabe never disappoints.
If you have read any of this series – You HAVE to read this!! If you haven’t read the series – What are you waiting for GET IT NOW!!
This was such a good prequel. I read it after reading the first four books in the series, but equally good for someone wondering if they should, emotional and hot. CJ's full series also has humour in it, but this was more serious. It was a short, 60 page, introduction to the Austin Series shown through the eyes of our hero Gabe. It was so nice to get more of his backstory, even though it made me cry. I can really feel his struggles with his concerns for Mia now I've read this. I want more Gabe!!!
**Complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review**
Destined, the prequel of the Austin series, is amazing. I love this book! This is Gabriel’s POV, his story when he’s young and became the man who he turned to be. In this book, I got to love Gabriel more! I soon understand this man. Deep inside him is an interesting and loving man that made me fall in love more to this character!
I really enjoyed the book. I usually don't read novellas, but it was free and I wanted to read this before I started the first book in the series.
I got a back story for Gabe and what lead him to be the way he is and who the is woman that captures his heart so he can mend and put his heart back together to be able to feel again.
I actually enjoyed getting inside Gabe's head and learning more about his character and why he feels the need to be so controlling and possessive around Mia. Gabe really needs to see a counselor about his unresolved guilt about his mom and baby bother/sister. I definitely look forward to reading the remaining books in the series.