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Shameless
Librarian's note: This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN : B00MR4SM3O.
Girls like me don’t get happy endings.
I know what I am. At worst a cliché, at best a cautionary tale. I put an international border between me and my past, only to wind up working in a low-end titty bar. Even my excuse is as lame as it gets: I’m paying for college, getting my art degree from Montreal’s most prestigious school. Although some days it becomes confusing: am I just a student who moonlights as a stripper, or a stripper who masquerades as a student?
But the inevitable happens and my two lives collide. And now there’s one other person who knows both the quiet, antisocial Hannah and the sensual, shameless Alicia. One person who keeps my secret.
He’s beautiful, he’s sophisticated. He comes from the other side of life, the one where I’m not wanted or accepted. But he calls me la petite Américaine, and his hot, hot hands on my skin promise me things I long ago gave up on.
The problem? He teaches my Classic Photography class.
This is a standalone novel, no series, no cliffhanger.
Girls like me don’t get happy endings.
I know what I am. At worst a cliché, at best a cautionary tale. I put an international border between me and my past, only to wind up working in a low-end titty bar. Even my excuse is as lame as it gets: I’m paying for college, getting my art degree from Montreal’s most prestigious school. Although some days it becomes confusing: am I just a student who moonlights as a stripper, or a stripper who masquerades as a student?
But the inevitable happens and my two lives collide. And now there’s one other person who knows both the quiet, antisocial Hannah and the sensual, shameless Alicia. One person who keeps my secret.
He’s beautiful, he’s sophisticated. He comes from the other side of life, the one where I’m not wanted or accepted. But he calls me la petite Américaine, and his hot, hot hands on my skin promise me things I long ago gave up on.
The problem? He teaches my Classic Photography class.
This is a standalone novel, no series, no cliffhanger.
227 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2014
9 people are currently reading
631 people want to read
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August 2, 2014
Title: Shameless
Series: Standalone
Author: Nina Lemay
Release Date: August 18, 2014
Rating: 3.5 stars
Cliffhanger:. No
HEA:
When I decided to give Shameless a go, I was hesitant and not sure if I would find it right up my alley. Reading stripper books is risky. It’s just so very easy to mess them up badly, that I tend to be careful and usually don’t even read them. Yet, something in the blurb drew me in and I thought ‘okay, I will do this!’
Now, after finishing, I must say that I had definitely enjoyed it, I just had some minor troubles with the plot – that’s why the 3.5 star rating. Maybe Shameless wasn’t exactly the book I had fallen in love with, but it was definitely a good read that pulled me out of my reading funk, which means something to me.
Told from Hannah’s point of view, Nina Lemay’s novel grabbed my attention from the beginning. This story is about a girl who thinks of herself as of the biggest cliché ever; oh another one college student paying of her education by doing lap dances and showing her boobs. Nothing out of ordinary, nothing worth talking about.
“I’m ready to embody the cliché of the stripper-paying-for-her-education.”
But with crazy pink hair, tattoos and small breasts Hannah is not exactly your typical stripper; she certainly doesn’t look like one.
One night, just before new school years begins, Hannah is paid to dance for a guy with knuckle tattoos; Libre Choix they say. The man didn’t look very comfortable with her writhing right on his lap. And next she knows, the guy is her photography teacher.
Emmanuel is older, sophisticated artist; what’s more he’s totally forbidden – not only did he was Hannah’s client (whom she never dates) but he’s also her teacher.
Quickly, they find themselves in situations that set them on fire. Despite the danger of being find out, Emmanuel and Hannah start steamy relationship, that changes with passing time.
“We may it now, but we’ll both regret it. We didn’t start out as equals. It didn’t start well, and it’s not going to end well”.
I find writing 3 and 3.5 star reviews the hardest; it’s not easy to show that I really liked the book despite the issues that made me lower my rating.
Mostly, I had trouble with growing to like Hannah’s way of thinking. She certainly wasn’t bad character, just naïve and annoying at times. I wished she would have been a little bit more mature and stopped hiding. There were situations where I was one step from rolling my eyes at her or telling her to grow some balls.
Emmanuel was nice.. and I think that’s my biggest problem with him. He was only nice, nothing more. And I anticipated more complicated and complex character.
Shameless is one of those books in between. Nina Lemay’s novel was good read, I was absorbed by the story and had fun, but it just wasn’t something that would make my heart skip a beat. Yet it was steamy enough to satisfy, perfectly angsty and while both characters seemed a tad bit melodramatic, I can wholeheartedly recommend this to all of you who enjoy forbidden romance stories.
*ARC kindly provided by author, Nina Lemay, in exchange for honest review *
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December 29, 2014
*This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.*
3.5 STARS
I’ve been struggling with how to rate this, on one hand I liked it, it was an okay book, but then again it was nothing special, it didn’t leave me feeling anything in particular.
The story follows Hannah, who’s an American art student in Canada. In her free time, she works as a stripper to pay for school. She also meets Emmanuel, who turns out to be her Photography professor. That’s what the blurb says, but to me, this was a story about Hannah and the problems she has with herself and her identity. I mean, I liked her in the beginning I really did, but oh boy, did she then start to annoy me. That’s my main problem with this book – I couldn’t connect with the protagonist at all. She ran away from home, but as we all know you can’t run away from yourself. She starts working as a stripper, when she obviously has issues with that. Throughout the novel, I felt like that was a big part of who she was, like she labeled herself as such. I think the author should have made her more likeable, so we could actually see what Emmanuel saw in her, why did he like her?
Furthermore, the taboo relationship, which didn’t really feel taboo, even though the age difference is perfect 11 years. That is mostly because I felt the obstacles to their relationship came from within; not from Emmanuel being her teacher, but from Hannah and her inability to let someone in and to trust. She had issues with herself, which I felt she didn’t fully resolve by end of the novel.
Moreover, I could compare this with other teacher/student romances I’d read, but I won’t be doing that. Generally, such books can divided into 2 categories: romantic ones, where MCs are actually in love and end up together, and the abusive ones, where it’s mainly about lust and those don’t end up so well. And Shameless falls into the first category.
In conclusion, this is a 3-star read for me, it was simply okay, nothing particularly memorable about it; although I really liked the writing style and I think the author has potential and I’ll be definitely reading Nina Lemay again.
3.5 STARS
I’ve been struggling with how to rate this, on one hand I liked it, it was an okay book, but then again it was nothing special, it didn’t leave me feeling anything in particular.
The story follows Hannah, who’s an American art student in Canada. In her free time, she works as a stripper to pay for school. She also meets Emmanuel, who turns out to be her Photography professor. That’s what the blurb says, but to me, this was a story about Hannah and the problems she has with herself and her identity. I mean, I liked her in the beginning I really did, but oh boy, did she then start to annoy me. That’s my main problem with this book – I couldn’t connect with the protagonist at all. She ran away from home, but as we all know you can’t run away from yourself. She starts working as a stripper, when she obviously has issues with that. Throughout the novel, I felt like that was a big part of who she was, like she labeled herself as such. I think the author should have made her more likeable, so we could actually see what Emmanuel saw in her, why did he like her?
Furthermore, the taboo relationship, which didn’t really feel taboo, even though the age difference is perfect 11 years. That is mostly because I felt the obstacles to their relationship came from within; not from Emmanuel being her teacher, but from Hannah and her inability to let someone in and to trust. She had issues with herself, which I felt she didn’t fully resolve by end of the novel.
Moreover, I could compare this with other teacher/student romances I’d read, but I won’t be doing that. Generally, such books can divided into 2 categories: romantic ones, where MCs are actually in love and end up together, and the abusive ones, where it’s mainly about lust and those don’t end up so well. And Shameless falls into the first category.
In conclusion, this is a 3-star read for me, it was simply okay, nothing particularly memorable about it; although I really liked the writing style and I think the author has potential and I’ll be definitely reading Nina Lemay again.
December 5, 2015
3 Stars!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Tittle: Shameless
Series: Stand-alone
Author: Nina Lemay
Release Date: August 18th 2014
Rating: 3 Stars
Cliffhanger: No
Writing Style: First Person, Female POV
HEA:
MY REVIEW
Hannah is a normal art school student at noon but she is Alicia the stripper at night. She works as a stripper for living after she ran away and leave her past and moved from the US to Canada. Everything seems so normal at first, she goes to school without anyone notices she has another 'identity' until she met him. Emmanuel who apparently is her Classic Photography teacher. Emmanuel knows her secret, but he still wants her. Can he keep that secret? And can they be together?
I'm a fan of forbidden love, teacher-student-romance story actually. But my reactions when I was reading this book:
The first 67%: it's so boring!
After 67%: Finally! It's getting interesting!!
84%: What the fuck?! This story is so ridiculous!!
88%: I'm going to DNF it!!
90%: Oh well, it's getting better again now. I'll finish it till the end then!
To be honest I'm not a big fan of stripper and I have negative image of strippers. But in this case, the first time I met Hannah, I didn't have that negative image of her. I know why she decided to be a stripper, and I found that she's a very hardworking, kickass heroine.
But then she becomes so annoying..
I know she has her own secret past, but she becomes so selfish and negative-thinking person and doesn't want to open up herself to anyone, including Emmanuel. She always has assumptions that anyone always thinks the worst of her.
Emmanuel in the other hand, he always tries his best to reassure her that she deserves good things to happen to her and tries to figure out what kind of person she is actually by himself, but she still doesn't want to let people come to her life.
Emmanuel is a sweet hero. Even though he was also like a child too somethimes.
The relationship between them is so superficial, in my opinion. I feel like they don't have a deep connection between them. I don't even know why Emmanuel finds Hannah attractive. Because the first time they met wasn't a very good encounter. They met in the stripper club where Hannah dancing in his lap, topless. And the next day they meet again in school just to find out the fact that she's actually his student. And boom! They suddenly become so inseparable.
Ok I'm not going to make this review as a rant. I know everything has its good and bad side, so lemme show you that.
What I dislike
1. Ridiculous story line
Hannah always keeps her identity as a stripper as a secret. She doesn't want anyone in her school to find out what she is doing for living. She has different persona when she's at school and at work. Everything seems safe, none knows her secret except Emmanuel. Then suddenly her secret is revealed by someone who is so unexpected! And by unexpected I mean it doesn't make sense! AT ALL! The one who broke that secret is
It's just... WHAT THE FUCK?!!!
I thought
2. Immature hero and heroine
Hannah and Emmanuel are both adult, but they act like a junior high students sometimes. Hannah is being so annoying because of her insecurities of her self. But even though Emmanuel tries to be the wise one, he still being so selfish too. It makes they both arguing THE SAME SHIT over and over again..
3. So many French words and terms of art I don't understand
I don't understand French AT ALL. So I need to copy-past those French words to Google translate back and forth so that I can understand what they are talking about.
And since Hannah is studying art, they are many terms of art that I don't understand at all. Like the Art History etc... So I skipped it when they're talking about art. LOL
4. Lack of steamy scenes
I can't say the sex scenes are hot at all. Because in the beginning they were so eager like they're going to rip each other clothes then suddenly they both came already... It could have been more hot and sexy if the author described it well. So it's just like watching censored movie to me.
What I like
1. The cover!
People say "don't judge the book just by its cover", but in reality before I decide I'm going to read some book or not, the first thing I see is the cover. Not the tittle nor the synopsis but the cover! LOL.
And this book? This book has a really beautiful cover!! I rate it 9/10!
2. Gives me new knowledge
I didn't know that there's some place in Canada where all people in there is speaking French! LOL. But thanks to this book, now my knowledge is improved
3.No cliffhanger
I'm a big fan of non-cliffhanger book. I'm glad this book is one of them!
4. All problems are well resolved
Even though the ending is not really a HEA, but all the problems are resolved
Although maybe this book didn't really work for me, I hope it does for anyone else.
*ARC is generously provided by the author for a very honest review written above*
ABOUT THE BOOK
Tittle: Shameless
Series: Stand-alone
Author: Nina Lemay
Release Date: August 18th 2014
Rating: 3 Stars
Cliffhanger: No
Writing Style: First Person, Female POV
HEA:
MY REVIEW
Hannah is a normal art school student at noon but she is Alicia the stripper at night. She works as a stripper for living after she ran away and leave her past and moved from the US to Canada. Everything seems so normal at first, she goes to school without anyone notices she has another 'identity' until she met him. Emmanuel who apparently is her Classic Photography teacher. Emmanuel knows her secret, but he still wants her. Can he keep that secret? And can they be together?
I'm a fan of forbidden love, teacher-student-romance story actually. But my reactions when I was reading this book:
The first 67%: it's so boring!
After 67%: Finally! It's getting interesting!!
84%: What the fuck?! This story is so ridiculous!!
88%: I'm going to DNF it!!
90%: Oh well, it's getting better again now. I'll finish it till the end then!
To be honest I'm not a big fan of stripper and I have negative image of strippers. But in this case, the first time I met Hannah, I didn't have that negative image of her. I know why she decided to be a stripper, and I found that she's a very hardworking, kickass heroine.
But then she becomes so annoying..
I know she has her own secret past, but she becomes so selfish and negative-thinking person and doesn't want to open up herself to anyone, including Emmanuel. She always has assumptions that anyone always thinks the worst of her.
Emmanuel in the other hand, he always tries his best to reassure her that she deserves good things to happen to her and tries to figure out what kind of person she is actually by himself, but she still doesn't want to let people come to her life.
"I ask you something perfectly normal, about your friends or your hometown, and you look like you're about to have a panic attack. You won't tell me why and won't even tell me what not to ask so that I don't stumble over the same thing again after fifteen minutes later."
Emmanuel is a sweet hero. Even though he was also like a child too somethimes.
The relationship between them is so superficial, in my opinion. I feel like they don't have a deep connection between them. I don't even know why Emmanuel finds Hannah attractive. Because the first time they met wasn't a very good encounter. They met in the stripper club where Hannah dancing in his lap, topless. And the next day they meet again in school just to find out the fact that she's actually his student. And boom! They suddenly become so inseparable.
Ok I'm not going to make this review as a rant. I know everything has its good and bad side, so lemme show you that.
What I dislike1. Ridiculous story line
Hannah always keeps her identity as a stripper as a secret. She doesn't want anyone in her school to find out what she is doing for living. She has different persona when she's at school and at work. Everything seems safe, none knows her secret except Emmanuel. Then suddenly her secret is revealed by someone who is so unexpected! And by unexpected I mean it doesn't make sense! AT ALL! The one who broke that secret is
It's just... WHAT THE FUCK?!!!
I thought
2. Immature hero and heroine
Hannah and Emmanuel are both adult, but they act like a junior high students sometimes. Hannah is being so annoying because of her insecurities of her self. But even though Emmanuel tries to be the wise one, he still being so selfish too. It makes they both arguing THE SAME SHIT over and over again..
3. So many French words and terms of art I don't understand
I don't understand French AT ALL. So I need to copy-past those French words to Google translate back and forth so that I can understand what they are talking about.
And since Hannah is studying art, they are many terms of art that I don't understand at all. Like the Art History etc... So I skipped it when they're talking about art. LOL
4. Lack of steamy scenes
I can't say the sex scenes are hot at all. Because in the beginning they were so eager like they're going to rip each other clothes then suddenly they both came already... It could have been more hot and sexy if the author described it well. So it's just like watching censored movie to me.
What I like1. The cover!
People say "don't judge the book just by its cover", but in reality before I decide I'm going to read some book or not, the first thing I see is the cover. Not the tittle nor the synopsis but the cover! LOL.
And this book? This book has a really beautiful cover!! I rate it 9/10!
2. Gives me new knowledge
I didn't know that there's some place in Canada where all people in there is speaking French! LOL. But thanks to this book, now my knowledge is improved
3.No cliffhanger
I'm a big fan of non-cliffhanger book. I'm glad this book is one of them!
4. All problems are well resolved
Even though the ending is not really a HEA, but all the problems are resolved
Although maybe this book didn't really work for me, I hope it does for anyone else.
*ARC is generously provided by the author for a very honest review written above*
August 1, 2014
**Shameless generously provided by the author in exchange for honest review.**
3 Stars
I’d like to start off by saying I think the cover for Shameless is amazing. It caught my interest immediately and after reading the blurb I jumped at the chance to read the forbidden love story between Hannah and Emmanuel. This New Adult Contemporary romance is well written with an interesting, forbidden-love plot full of angst, vulnerability, and emotion.
Shameless provided an enjoyable read for me. The writing proved to be a great asset though when I was thinking about the characters, neither of which wowed me. I didn’t feel connected to either of them and was waiting for a big moment where I really feel something towards either. However the delicacy in which they’re relationship was developed felt honest and real.
Hannah, forgetting all the stereotypes about strippers, is a naïve woman looking to pay her way through school in order to forge a new life. I respected the strength in her decisions, her ability to be confident enough in herself even when she wasn’t innately feeling it. At times her naivety got to be too much and I found myself skimming but more often than not I was okay with the character. Just not blow away or overly connected. Emmanuel’s character juxtaposed with her proved to be more worldly and experienced. His demeanor was sweet and tender with her allowing the relationship to progress in a very honest way. He wasn’t the solver of Hannah’s issues, which I liked because I found strength in her independence in her need to change herself for herself – Emmanuel was just the catalyst toward the end goal.
It’s a sweet love story that I definitely enjoyed. All the elements of a forbidden but grand love were there. I just never really felt into the characters enough to be fully invested. I seek a connection with main characters or at least their story. But if you like new adult and especially if you like the idea of a forbidden romance, try Shameless. The writing will draw you in and leave you satisfied you read it. I didn’t not like it, I just didn’t love it.
July 30, 2014
All right, here goes:
First, thanks to the author who graciously provided me with the review copy after I approached her. Normally I don’t do stuff like this, but when I saw the blurb, I couldn’t resist!
SHAMELESS didn’t disappoint.
Five gorgeous, emotional, beautifully written stars! And for five stars, five reasons why I adored this book.
One: Hannah.
I’ve rarely encountered a character like her. It’s hard to write stripper characters without falling into generalizations and clichés. (Not that Hannah was flawless in that regard. A couple of things made me go tsk-tsk.
But besides that, she was written in a nuanced, detailed way that made her seem real. Her vulnerability and insecurity was endearing--she is, after all, very young, and still has that small-town-girl naivete about her, no matter how hard she tries to hide it behind her tattoos and wild hair. I found the fact that she had to adopt a persona to be able to strip (because she didn’t think of herself as sexy or attractive) very moving. Hannah tries to own her job, to be proud of it, but in many ways she was unprepared for it. When she encountered the dangers and the drawbacks, it was painfully apparent: she just couldn’t deal.
But don’t worry. She got better by the end.
I thought it was realistic that she had sexual hangups stemming I HATE hate hate it when a NA heroine who’s been sexually traumatized is suddenly writhing and panting the moment the love interest lays a… finger on her. (What did you think I was going to say?) Hannah and Emmanuel’s relationship was dealt with in a realistic and incredibly touching way. I loved that.
Which brings me to…
Two: Emmanuel.
Emmanuel is Hannah’s photography teacher. He’s older, he’s an artist, and he has his own wild youth behind him (more on that later). Unknowingly, Hannah gives him a dance the day before classes start, only to run into him in the classroom the next morning.
Yikes.
And Emmanuel, let me tell you, is a gentleman.
*swoon*
I was afraid of where the story might veer after that first incident. If he had aggressively pursued her, that would have been creepy and stalkery and bordering on blackmail if he threatened to out her. Seriously, that would have been DNF/wallbanger material (and not the sexy kind!).
(Yes, I know the whole alpha-asshole-who-doesn’t-understand-consent thing is a turn-on to some people, but honestly, I think it would have done a HUGE disservice to an otherwise gritty, realistic book. The way Hannah’s character was written and developed, I NEVER would have bought her falling for a stalkery abusive former-customer.)
But while he does pursue her, he’s as aware as she is of how weird and awkward the whole situation is.
And he’s a gentleman about it the whole way.
*swoons again*
Of course, he’s not perfect. His darker side does surface—at the worst possible moment, and it nearly leads to disaster.
Three: The Stripping
I LOVED the depiction of stripping in this book. I’ve been looking forever for a book about stripping (or any other sex work, really) that doesn’t trivialize or sensationalize it. And the way it was described in SHAMELESS was realistic, not painted as a hip-hop video or an evil, horrible, soul-crushing thing that will destroy you. And let’s just say I loved how it turned out in the end and leave it at that.
Four: The Resolution
I’m going to try and keep this spoiler-free. But I loved how in the end, Hannah solved her own problems and didn’t need her love interest to sweep in and save her. She overcame her issues by herself and came out on top, learned to own it and to not care what people think. The fact that she got her happy ending (haha!) was just a bonus.
Five: The writing
This book is beautifully written and full of quotables. (And yes, there really is a Margaret Atwood poem about stripping—I looked it up!) What else is there to say? I think I already said everything above, so I’ll just add that the cover is absolutely to die for. I love the look on her face, it suits her and even suits the title. Yes, you can take off your clothes for strangers and still be a shy, reserved and private person.
FIVE PINK-HAIRED, TATTOOED, STRIPPER STARS.
First, thanks to the author who graciously provided me with the review copy after I approached her. Normally I don’t do stuff like this, but when I saw the blurb, I couldn’t resist!
SHAMELESS didn’t disappoint.
Five gorgeous, emotional, beautifully written stars! And for five stars, five reasons why I adored this book.
One: Hannah.
Stripping was logical for me. One fall day last year I just bought some cheap high heels and a bra-and-panties set from the discount rack at the lingerie outlet and showed up at my first club. I didn’t get coerced into it, there was no moral dilemma, no lying awake at night being tormented by my downfall. It was, in a way, unavoidable.
I’ve rarely encountered a character like her. It’s hard to write stripper characters without falling into generalizations and clichés. (Not that Hannah was flawless in that regard. A couple of things made me go tsk-tsk.
But besides that, she was written in a nuanced, detailed way that made her seem real. Her vulnerability and insecurity was endearing--she is, after all, very young, and still has that small-town-girl naivete about her, no matter how hard she tries to hide it behind her tattoos and wild hair. I found the fact that she had to adopt a persona to be able to strip (because she didn’t think of herself as sexy or attractive) very moving. Hannah tries to own her job, to be proud of it, but in many ways she was unprepared for it. When she encountered the dangers and the drawbacks, it was painfully apparent: she just couldn’t deal.
But don’t worry. She got better by the end.
I’m supposed to lose myself, to sink into it, to become unaware of anything but what we’re doing—isn’t that how it happens in all the smutty books? I shed everything like a tired old skin, all my past experiences and hangups and insecurities and doubts, and become one hot puddle of pleasure. Being turned on is supposed to wipe my brain till there’s nothing but the burning, insatiable desire.
I thought it was realistic that she had sexual hangups stemming I HATE hate hate it when a NA heroine who’s been sexually traumatized is suddenly writhing and panting the moment the love interest lays a… finger on her. (What did you think I was going to say?) Hannah and Emmanuel’s relationship was dealt with in a realistic and incredibly touching way. I loved that.
Which brings me to…
Two: Emmanuel.
Emmanuel is Hannah’s photography teacher. He’s older, he’s an artist, and he has his own wild youth behind him (more on that later). Unknowingly, Hannah gives him a dance the day before classes start, only to run into him in the classroom the next morning.
Yikes.
And Emmanuel, let me tell you, is a gentleman.
*swoon*
“And maybe everything you told me about yourself was fake, and you didn’t let the real you slip through even once—I have no trouble believing that, even though I really don’t want to. Just because I enjoyed the persona doesn’t mean I have any claims on the person underneath.”
I was afraid of where the story might veer after that first incident. If he had aggressively pursued her, that would have been creepy and stalkery and bordering on blackmail if he threatened to out her. Seriously, that would have been DNF/wallbanger material (and not the sexy kind!).
(Yes, I know the whole alpha-asshole-who-doesn’t-understand-consent thing is a turn-on to some people, but honestly, I think it would have done a HUGE disservice to an otherwise gritty, realistic book. The way Hannah’s character was written and developed, I NEVER would have bought her falling for a stalkery abusive former-customer.)
But while he does pursue her, he’s as aware as she is of how weird and awkward the whole situation is.
And he’s a gentleman about it the whole way.
*swoons again*
He kisses me. Our lips don’t meet smooth and choreographed like in movies. The stubble on his cheek grazes the corner of my mouth, leaving behind a burning trail, and then his lips cover mine. Nothing hesitant about them. Assertive, self-assured like I thought his kiss would be, the promise of those strong hands and broad shoulders and arrogant posture made real. But he’s anything but arrogant. He gently nips on my lower lip and his hands caress my neck, my jaw, cup my face. He’s holding me like I’m something fragile and precious. I see the long shadow his eyelashes cast over his cheekbone, the dots of stubble, the slight creases in the corners of his eyes as his eyebrows furrow in concentration.
I’m afraid to close my eyes.
Of course, he’s not perfect. His darker side does surface—at the worst possible moment, and it nearly leads to disaster.
Three: The Stripping
I LOVED the depiction of stripping in this book. I’ve been looking forever for a book about stripping (or any other sex work, really) that doesn’t trivialize or sensationalize it. And the way it was described in SHAMELESS was realistic, not painted as a hip-hop video or an evil, horrible, soul-crushing thing that will destroy you. And let’s just say I loved how it turned out in the end and leave it at that.
One thing that nobody tells you about stripping is that it’s boring as hell. It’s not this glamorous endless party like in music videos, but it’s also not the slimy, grimy, drug-soaked cesspool of lost souls like in movies. It’s somewhere in the grey in-between, where the only thing that keeps you from falling asleep on your feet is the vinyl strap of your sandal cutting into your baby toe. Where you tilt your head up, showing your neck sensuously to hide a yawn that overtook you mid-lap dance.
Four: The Resolution
I’m going to try and keep this spoiler-free. But I loved how in the end, Hannah solved her own problems and didn’t need her love interest to sweep in and save her. She overcame her issues by herself and came out on top, learned to own it and to not care what people think. The fact that she got her happy ending (haha!) was just a bonus.
Five: The writing
This book is beautifully written and full of quotables. (And yes, there really is a Margaret Atwood poem about stripping—I looked it up!) What else is there to say? I think I already said everything above, so I’ll just add that the cover is absolutely to die for. I love the look on her face, it suits her and even suits the title. Yes, you can take off your clothes for strangers and still be a shy, reserved and private person.
FIVE PINK-HAIRED, TATTOOED, STRIPPER STARS.
August 7, 2014
I may or may not have sold my body and soul for an ARC of this novel.
Either wayyyyy I did get an ARC yay!!!
STRIPPER LOVE. <3
My Review:
I don't even know where to start with this book. I just… I just have no words. It was so good. SO GOOD.
I'm seriously in awe of Nina Lemay right now. She captured me and pulled me in from the very first page. Like literally grabbed my heart and jerked it right into the pages. Kahleesi style!
Hannah is such an intriguing character. She is so damaged, hurt, broken by her past. I just couldn't help but want her to find the happiness she really deserved.
And then Emmanuel…where do I even begin with him? He is so perfect and good, but bad at the same time. He is her teacher, but he just can't seem to stay away from her. He wants to be the good guy and make the right choices, but Hannah is too much of a temptation. Oh, and he's EFFING hot and dreamy. SIghhhhhhhhh.
And the sexual tension, the romance. It is just FREAKING awesome. (Though this is not an erotic romance--so keep that in mind. Also keep in mind that I don't usually read romance that isn't erotic, so it really says something about this book, for me to enjoy it as much as I did. It was still very sexy and VERY good. Like SO FUCKING good.)
Nina's writing is very honest and open. It's raw. She doesn't spin a fairytale with her poetic words, but something true. A story that could be real. That could happen to an insecure girl, a broken girl with imperfections.
I just loved this book so much (can you tell? hehe).
I'm a huge fan of damaged characters and Lemay did not disappoint. I would give this book 100 more stars if I could.
Either wayyyyy I did get an ARC yay!!!
STRIPPER LOVE. <3
My Review:
I don't even know where to start with this book. I just… I just have no words. It was so good. SO GOOD.
I'm seriously in awe of Nina Lemay right now. She captured me and pulled me in from the very first page. Like literally grabbed my heart and jerked it right into the pages. Kahleesi style!
Hannah is such an intriguing character. She is so damaged, hurt, broken by her past. I just couldn't help but want her to find the happiness she really deserved.
And then Emmanuel…where do I even begin with him? He is so perfect and good, but bad at the same time. He is her teacher, but he just can't seem to stay away from her. He wants to be the good guy and make the right choices, but Hannah is too much of a temptation. Oh, and he's EFFING hot and dreamy. SIghhhhhhhhh.
And the sexual tension, the romance. It is just FREAKING awesome. (Though this is not an erotic romance--so keep that in mind. Also keep in mind that I don't usually read romance that isn't erotic, so it really says something about this book, for me to enjoy it as much as I did. It was still very sexy and VERY good. Like SO FUCKING good.)
Nina's writing is very honest and open. It's raw. She doesn't spin a fairytale with her poetic words, but something true. A story that could be real. That could happen to an insecure girl, a broken girl with imperfections.
I just loved this book so much (can you tell? hehe).
I'm a huge fan of damaged characters and Lemay did not disappoint. I would give this book 100 more stars if I could.
September 28, 2016
Esta fue una lectura... interesante.
No estoy muy segura de que me gustara. Hannah es un personaje peculiar, demasiado lleno de prejuicios, malas decisiones y actitud de mierda. Aunque una que otra vez terminaron gustándome sus decisiones la mayor parte del tiempo queria golpearla.
Enmanuel no se... nunca termino de gustarme. Esta es la primera vez desde que comencé a devorar libros como si fueran chocolates que consigo una pareja con cero química. Es horrible, la relación se siente demasiado forzada.
El final es un asco. Y la autora me debe demasiadas cosas sobre Hannah, más de doscientas páginas y este es un personaje que continua siendo un misterio.
No estoy muy segura de que me gustara. Hannah es un personaje peculiar, demasiado lleno de prejuicios, malas decisiones y actitud de mierda. Aunque una que otra vez terminaron gustándome sus decisiones la mayor parte del tiempo queria golpearla.
Enmanuel no se... nunca termino de gustarme. Esta es la primera vez desde que comencé a devorar libros como si fueran chocolates que consigo una pareja con cero química. Es horrible, la relación se siente demasiado forzada.
El final es un asco. Y la autora me debe demasiadas cosas sobre Hannah, más de doscientas páginas y este es un personaje que continua siendo un misterio.
August 14, 2014
4,5 stars, rounded up.
Shameless is a book that defied my expectations. In the best possible way.
What I expected:
What I got:
Hannah is not how you'd imagine a main character who's a stripper. She's not confident, she doesn't even think she's sexy, and she's not an exhibitionist by any means. She's actually very self-conscious, borderline shy. And as the story progresses you start to understand why and it's so sad. :( Especially the first time she and Emmanuel have sex... it's just...
Needless to say, by 45%, I was rooting for them like you have no idea. And when things got ugly for her (as I knew was going to happen...) I just wanted her to get her HEA after all, no matter what. And no spoilers but when I got to 83%... I was this close to tears and I said to myself, if someone doesn't set this right within the remaining 17%, I'll be really, really pissed off at the author.
It's a very powerful, emotional book that grabs you and doesn't let go. I wasn't sure in the beginning, but I'm glad I took the challenge.
Shameless is a book that defied my expectations. In the best possible way.
What I expected:
What I got:
Hannah is not how you'd imagine a main character who's a stripper. She's not confident, she doesn't even think she's sexy, and she's not an exhibitionist by any means. She's actually very self-conscious, borderline shy. And as the story progresses you start to understand why and it's so sad. :( Especially the first time she and Emmanuel have sex... it's just...
Needless to say, by 45%, I was rooting for them like you have no idea. And when things got ugly for her (as I knew was going to happen...) I just wanted her to get her HEA after all, no matter what. And no spoilers but when I got to 83%... I was this close to tears and I said to myself, if someone doesn't set this right within the remaining 17%, I'll be really, really pissed off at the author.
It's a very powerful, emotional book that grabs you and doesn't let go. I wasn't sure in the beginning, but I'm glad I took the challenge.
July 19, 2016
Este libro nos cuenta la historia de Hanna/Alicia.
Hanna es ella como estudiante universitaria y Alicia es su "seudónimo" para trabajar en un club de strippers
Alicia conoce por x razón a cierto hombre en el club donde trabaja. Y tienen una "conexión". Al dia despues de ese resulta que dicho hombre es su profesor.
Bien, todo esto es obviamente "cliche" incluso la autora lo dice en su sinopsis.
Se supone que Hanna esta emocionalmente jodida algo asi como un personaje de los libros de Tarryn Fisher jaja
Y en cierto sentido, si. Hanna esta jodida. Pero su forma de estarlo es algo ridicula y a la vez no lo es. Es decir en ciertos momentos lo es y en otros no...
Emmanuel, el no me gusto nada. Es plano. Su personalidad es simplemente la de un joven de 15 años que no tiene aun sus pantalones de hombre puestos. Y eso me molesta porque Emmanuel tiene 32 AÑOS...
Lo que si me gusto de este libro es en cierta escena en la que Hanna ya cae al fondo de su vida. Sin trabajo, sin dinero, sin casa y sin amor. Ella toca un punto crítico en su vida.
Y no se si lo escucharon alguna vez pero
" Aveces tienes que tocar el fondo, para volver subir"
Hanna toca fondo. Y su forma de subir es lo que me gusto. La " escena " de la que hablo. Es sobre unos fotos de ella y su vida como stripper, acompañados de un audio en una expocición de arte.
Mis dos puntos a este libro son básicamente por esa escena.
En conlusión: Es un libro para pasar el rato, pero no esperes un gran romance, grandes dialogos o gran historia. Y a cambio te demuestra que el mundo esta lleno de prejuicios demasiado crueles.
" La gente ve y oye y cree lo que quiere, lo que se adecúa a su forma de ver el mundo, porque todo lo demás podria erizar sus plumas y hacer que cuestionen cosas que siempre han dado por verdades universales"
Hanna es ella como estudiante universitaria y Alicia es su "seudónimo" para trabajar en un club de strippers
Alicia conoce por x razón a cierto hombre en el club donde trabaja. Y tienen una "conexión". Al dia despues de ese resulta que dicho hombre es su profesor.
Bien, todo esto es obviamente "cliche" incluso la autora lo dice en su sinopsis.
Se supone que Hanna esta emocionalmente jodida algo asi como un personaje de los libros de Tarryn Fisher jaja
Y en cierto sentido, si. Hanna esta jodida. Pero su forma de estarlo es algo ridicula y a la vez no lo es. Es decir en ciertos momentos lo es y en otros no...
Emmanuel, el no me gusto nada. Es plano. Su personalidad es simplemente la de un joven de 15 años que no tiene aun sus pantalones de hombre puestos. Y eso me molesta porque Emmanuel tiene 32 AÑOS...
Lo que si me gusto de este libro es en cierta escena en la que Hanna ya cae al fondo de su vida. Sin trabajo, sin dinero, sin casa y sin amor. Ella toca un punto crítico en su vida.
Y no se si lo escucharon alguna vez pero
" Aveces tienes que tocar el fondo, para volver subir"
Hanna toca fondo. Y su forma de subir es lo que me gusto. La " escena " de la que hablo. Es sobre unos fotos de ella y su vida como stripper, acompañados de un audio en una expocición de arte.
Mis dos puntos a este libro son básicamente por esa escena.
En conlusión: Es un libro para pasar el rato, pero no esperes un gran romance, grandes dialogos o gran historia. Y a cambio te demuestra que el mundo esta lleno de prejuicios demasiado crueles.
" La gente ve y oye y cree lo que quiere, lo que se adecúa a su forma de ver el mundo, porque todo lo demás podria erizar sus plumas y hacer que cuestionen cosas que siempre han dado por verdades universales"
August 5, 2014
Received this book for honest review
I don't even know where to start. Usually if someone tells the story about a young adult stripping to support herself I am instantly grossed out. No slut shaming I think i just have a hard time imaginign myself doing it.I loved the love story wrapped up in the dirty bits, and the confusion between being stripper/college student. Its very real - you want to hold your breath to see if she gets the happy ending she deserves. Nina, you are a gift! This story sucked me in, i found myself trying to put myself in each characeters position. And thats what makes the boko work, when the reader imagines what life would be like as one of the characters.
I refuse to tell more plot because I dont want to be that reviewer that gives you the good bits.
4/5 STARS
Thanks Nina, I look forward to reading more from you!
I don't even know where to start. Usually if someone tells the story about a young adult stripping to support herself I am instantly grossed out. No slut shaming I think i just have a hard time imaginign myself doing it.I loved the love story wrapped up in the dirty bits, and the confusion between being stripper/college student. Its very real - you want to hold your breath to see if she gets the happy ending she deserves. Nina, you are a gift! This story sucked me in, i found myself trying to put myself in each characeters position. And thats what makes the boko work, when the reader imagines what life would be like as one of the characters.
I refuse to tell more plot because I dont want to be that reviewer that gives you the good bits.
4/5 STARS
Thanks Nina, I look forward to reading more from you!
August 20, 2014
WOW! Who would of thought a novel featuring a stripper would really be so good. I loved it! It was a masterpiece in it's own way that kept me scrolling the pages. Totally enjoyable and the open ending of the novel was so great because anything could happen, the sky is the limit. This novel was just so profound to me, I cannot even express it correctly!
August 28, 2014
This is a book that will make you feel ashamed of assuming a lot of things about people.
Shameless is one book that I'll never forget, I'm sure of it.
First off, it tackles two things.
1. forbidden relationships
2. stripping
That's a double KO if you ask me. The author is so brave as to put these two into one book. Another thing that is amazing about this is that this book doesn't hold back. It goes down until the very last dirty detail. I like this book because it's feisty, revealing and shameless (for the lack of other term)...very much so. Even though it does down to the harsh parts of reality, this book creates a smooth transition. It's classy and tasteful. The author definitely used art in here. The descriptions of things here like photographs, paintings and other literary works are so intricate, I feel like I can totally see what they're seeing.
THE CHARACTERS AND THE STORY
Hannah is... in trouble. Yes, I believe that for the entirety of the book, she's teetering on the edge of trouble. Her job is one and the other is the hot photography professor that she's hopelessly attracted to. I like her because she stands up for what she wants. Never backs down. Really, never. Stubborn 'til the end. It has advantages and disadvantages, but whatever... I like it when it comes to her. She wants to live her life without depending on somebody. She doesn't even want to have a loan for her studies. I think she just had a series of unlucky things. I cried for her near the end because really, a strong girl still needs a rest.You can imagine all her frustrations, fears, insecurities etc all bottled up. I just wanted to give her a break from everything that has been happening.
Emmanuel attracts trouble. Yes, this is what I believe in. With his line of job, you'd think that he has led a straight path. Unfortunately, his back story only says one thing... he's attracted to girls with damsel problems. Well, not exactly your convenient damsels, but the darker damsels. I'm trying not to give out spoilers and I'm finding it hard. hmpf. Anyway, his character is actually pretty easy to figure out. He's the knight-wanna-be. I think from the moment he met Hannah, he wanted to save her. I think that unconsciously, he has formed a plan for him and Hannah. I also think that he really does like Hannah. He's willing to do everything for her. It's very nice and also kind of weird, because again... he's the professor, granted they didn't actually meet that way.
The love part to me is not exactly the focus of the story, so Emmanuel's character was not so strongly described in the entirety of the book (not as strongly as Hannah). Emmanuel is just the typical good guy who becomes attracted to a girl whom he shouldn't have feelings for.
The start of their relationship is pretty messy as you may already have assumed. They argued lots. The middle is swoon worthy and quite good and um.. they still argued a lot. haha! The end part is very PROMISING. It's kind of open ended and I was waiting for more. I wish there's a novella for this so that I can see what happens to them after a year or two. :)
WHAT LEAST LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK
Their back stories. They hid it from each other so fiercely and when they finally say it... it's anticlimactic. That's how it felt like to me instead.
WHAT ONE CAN PICK UP FROM THIS BOOK:
Don't judge. Social standards suck. We always ask why people don't just get on with their own lives, but it still keeps one happening because this is what social standards tell us.
They are still human beings. When you say one bad thing to a person whom you think has an odd job, or a job wherein you think they already are thick faced, remember that they still have hearts, they can still feel and no matter how they act, they can still be hurt by words. It's true that if you don't have anything good to say, just shut up.
Our jobs don't define us. Enough said.
Love really is mysterious. The most unlikely people fall in love with each other everyday, it's not just in books.
Never use your position to belittle, bully or blackmail people. That's just wrong and truly punishable.
Careful with the social media. I think I don't have to elaborate on this anymore.
Don't look down on yourself. It's good to love yourself because that's the first step in gaining the love of everybody else.
All in all.. I definitely recommend this to those people who'd like to try out a different kind of love story. A more realistic one and one that will surely make you re-learn things that you probably already know. :)
5 lovely stars!!!
Oh did I mention? THE COVER SIMPLY ROCKS!!!!
Shameless is one book that I'll never forget, I'm sure of it.
First off, it tackles two things.
1. forbidden relationships
2. stripping
That's a double KO if you ask me. The author is so brave as to put these two into one book. Another thing that is amazing about this is that this book doesn't hold back. It goes down until the very last dirty detail. I like this book because it's feisty, revealing and shameless (for the lack of other term)...very much so. Even though it does down to the harsh parts of reality, this book creates a smooth transition. It's classy and tasteful. The author definitely used art in here. The descriptions of things here like photographs, paintings and other literary works are so intricate, I feel like I can totally see what they're seeing.
THE CHARACTERS AND THE STORY
Hannah is... in trouble. Yes, I believe that for the entirety of the book, she's teetering on the edge of trouble. Her job is one and the other is the hot photography professor that she's hopelessly attracted to. I like her because she stands up for what she wants. Never backs down. Really, never. Stubborn 'til the end. It has advantages and disadvantages, but whatever... I like it when it comes to her. She wants to live her life without depending on somebody. She doesn't even want to have a loan for her studies. I think she just had a series of unlucky things. I cried for her near the end because really, a strong girl still needs a rest.You can imagine all her frustrations, fears, insecurities etc all bottled up. I just wanted to give her a break from everything that has been happening.
Emmanuel attracts trouble. Yes, this is what I believe in. With his line of job, you'd think that he has led a straight path. Unfortunately, his back story only says one thing... he's attracted to girls with damsel problems. Well, not exactly your convenient damsels, but the darker damsels. I'm trying not to give out spoilers and I'm finding it hard. hmpf. Anyway, his character is actually pretty easy to figure out. He's the knight-wanna-be. I think from the moment he met Hannah, he wanted to save her. I think that unconsciously, he has formed a plan for him and Hannah. I also think that he really does like Hannah. He's willing to do everything for her. It's very nice and also kind of weird, because again... he's the professor, granted they didn't actually meet that way.
The love part to me is not exactly the focus of the story, so Emmanuel's character was not so strongly described in the entirety of the book (not as strongly as Hannah). Emmanuel is just the typical good guy who becomes attracted to a girl whom he shouldn't have feelings for.
The start of their relationship is pretty messy as you may already have assumed. They argued lots. The middle is swoon worthy and quite good and um.. they still argued a lot. haha! The end part is very PROMISING. It's kind of open ended and I was waiting for more. I wish there's a novella for this so that I can see what happens to them after a year or two. :)
WHAT LEAST LIKED ABOUT THIS BOOK
Their back stories. They hid it from each other so fiercely and when they finally say it... it's anticlimactic. That's how it felt like to me instead.
WHAT ONE CAN PICK UP FROM THIS BOOK:
Don't judge. Social standards suck. We always ask why people don't just get on with their own lives, but it still keeps one happening because this is what social standards tell us.
They are still human beings. When you say one bad thing to a person whom you think has an odd job, or a job wherein you think they already are thick faced, remember that they still have hearts, they can still feel and no matter how they act, they can still be hurt by words. It's true that if you don't have anything good to say, just shut up.
Our jobs don't define us. Enough said.
Love really is mysterious. The most unlikely people fall in love with each other everyday, it's not just in books.
Never use your position to belittle, bully or blackmail people. That's just wrong and truly punishable.
Careful with the social media. I think I don't have to elaborate on this anymore.
Don't look down on yourself. It's good to love yourself because that's the first step in gaining the love of everybody else.
All in all.. I definitely recommend this to those people who'd like to try out a different kind of love story. A more realistic one and one that will surely make you re-learn things that you probably already know. :)
5 lovely stars!!!
Oh did I mention? THE COVER SIMPLY ROCKS!!!!
August 24, 2014
If there are two things I love when it comes to book themes, they would be strippers and student/teacher relationships. And Nina Lemay made my every fantasy come true when she decided to write a book about a stripper in a student/teacher relationship There is something about the taboo that makes it so enticing and addicting but it is also a topic that does not incite a lot of creativity in authors. Fortunately, Lemay had no problem in terms of creativity and uniqueness of her plot. And I will admit, I shamelessly devoured this book in a matter of hours and even asked for seconds.
Hannah's cynicism and confidence felt like a welcome home hug from my two best friends. I have a deep infatuation for heroines who can tell people off and have a very deep and intellectual mind. Although most would think that those characteristics are actually Alicia's (Hannah's stripper alter-ego) and not Hannah's, I beg to differ. The two have identical voices and I believe that Hannah just needs to discover that all that spunk and snark actually belongs to her. I really enjoyed being in Hannah's mind, the way she sees things gave the world a dimmer light but also managed to tilt it sideways, her mind was different, intriguing and very enthralling. I just could not stop reading! (Hannah actually reminds me of Maise from Leah Raeder's Unteachable, I can't decide if they would make great friends or be enemies because their personalities would clash.) I also really liked how vulnerable Hannah was at times but still manages to straighten her back, keep her chin up and snap her fingers in Z-formation. Her growth as a protagonist and as a person progressed and showed as the book went on and I found myself looking up to her as she matured but still stayed true to herself. Hannah and Emmanuel's relationship was also a factor in her character growth.
I am still trying to decide if I love Emmanuel or if I am going to friendzone him. I loved him and Hannah together but there were times I felt as if for every step they took forward, they had to take three back. Their lack of trust in each other was their undoing. While their "love" was very passionate, it lacked the emotional connection between the two. There were also times when I felt as if Emmanuel was way harsh towards Hannah about her occupation. I mean, dude, give her a break! But what really struck me the most about Emmanuel was his backstory. When Hannah and Emmanuel's layers were being pulled back and their secrets exposed, I realized how much both of them let their pasts affect their future and because of this, their capacity to trust each other diminished. I was very impressed with the way Lemay piece things back together.
This may come as a surprise but what really amazed me about Shameless wasn't the romance between the two characters, it was the portrayal of women in this book. How women are actually condemned in society and are constantly victimized and preyed on because no matter how much we fight for women's rights, the stigma in society will take a looong time to destroy. The craziness and suffering that Hannah went through absolutely broke my heart but her bravery and determination made me want to hug her. Putting herself out like that? Amazing. I also have a newfound respect for strippers, really.
There were only a few characters that were mentioned in this book but Lemay managed to give them all a role. I never expected some people to turn out the way they did but as I read on, their roles started to make sense. Also, I super adored Marys, one of Hannah's coworkers. Haha!
Shameless is not just about a stripper in a student/teacher relationship, you may think that at first but as you read on, you'll see what I mean. Shameless is about self-discovery and finding that fight in you to defend yourself no matter how bleak the situation may be. This book was raw, powerful and spoke volumes, it transcended the very boundaries that society had set and freed itself. Reading Shameless was a beautiful experience and I definitely look forward to reading more of Nina Lemay's books.
Rating: 4/5
Official blog post: http://the-soul-sisters.blogspot.com/...
Hannah's cynicism and confidence felt like a welcome home hug from my two best friends. I have a deep infatuation for heroines who can tell people off and have a very deep and intellectual mind. Although most would think that those characteristics are actually Alicia's (Hannah's stripper alter-ego) and not Hannah's, I beg to differ. The two have identical voices and I believe that Hannah just needs to discover that all that spunk and snark actually belongs to her. I really enjoyed being in Hannah's mind, the way she sees things gave the world a dimmer light but also managed to tilt it sideways, her mind was different, intriguing and very enthralling. I just could not stop reading! (Hannah actually reminds me of Maise from Leah Raeder's Unteachable, I can't decide if they would make great friends or be enemies because their personalities would clash.) I also really liked how vulnerable Hannah was at times but still manages to straighten her back, keep her chin up and snap her fingers in Z-formation. Her growth as a protagonist and as a person progressed and showed as the book went on and I found myself looking up to her as she matured but still stayed true to herself. Hannah and Emmanuel's relationship was also a factor in her character growth.
I am still trying to decide if I love Emmanuel or if I am going to friendzone him. I loved him and Hannah together but there were times I felt as if for every step they took forward, they had to take three back. Their lack of trust in each other was their undoing. While their "love" was very passionate, it lacked the emotional connection between the two. There were also times when I felt as if Emmanuel was way harsh towards Hannah about her occupation. I mean, dude, give her a break! But what really struck me the most about Emmanuel was his backstory. When Hannah and Emmanuel's layers were being pulled back and their secrets exposed, I realized how much both of them let their pasts affect their future and because of this, their capacity to trust each other diminished. I was very impressed with the way Lemay piece things back together.
This may come as a surprise but what really amazed me about Shameless wasn't the romance between the two characters, it was the portrayal of women in this book. How women are actually condemned in society and are constantly victimized and preyed on because no matter how much we fight for women's rights, the stigma in society will take a looong time to destroy. The craziness and suffering that Hannah went through absolutely broke my heart but her bravery and determination made me want to hug her. Putting herself out like that? Amazing. I also have a newfound respect for strippers, really.
There were only a few characters that were mentioned in this book but Lemay managed to give them all a role. I never expected some people to turn out the way they did but as I read on, their roles started to make sense. Also, I super adored Marys, one of Hannah's coworkers. Haha!
Shameless is not just about a stripper in a student/teacher relationship, you may think that at first but as you read on, you'll see what I mean. Shameless is about self-discovery and finding that fight in you to defend yourself no matter how bleak the situation may be. This book was raw, powerful and spoke volumes, it transcended the very boundaries that society had set and freed itself. Reading Shameless was a beautiful experience and I definitely look forward to reading more of Nina Lemay's books.
Rating: 4/5
Official blog post: http://the-soul-sisters.blogspot.com/...
dnf
August 6, 2014Istyria book blog ~ B's world of enchanted books
DNF at 49%
I'm sorry, I'm just not feeling it. I don't like the main character and I can't connect to her or the story. Could just be me though because others seem to enjoy it just fine. I may try again some time when I'm more in the mood for this. But for now, it's a DNF.
March 2, 2016
I'm reading this book and she puts herself down too much I had to step away from the book hopefully I'll continue it later.
June 27, 2017
Sabia que me iba a gustar desde que leí la sinopsis, pero se me ha hecho un poco duro a veces. Aunque la historia de amor es preciosa y me viene muy bien la trama dado al próximo libro que quiero escribir, creo que me ha enseñado un par de cosas así que cuatro estrellas le viene de perlas.
March 28, 2017
Giving this one 4 stars because of Emmanuel, he made me had a feeling of home, I don't know why but I liked it.
Also I kind of didn't like Hannah and thennn I realized that I'm like her in some aspects so this might mean that I wouldn't stand myself maybe.
But it was good overall.
Also I kind of didn't like Hannah and thennn I realized that I'm like her in some aspects so this might mean that I wouldn't stand myself maybe.
But it was good overall.
September 19, 2014
Hannah flees her suffocatingly boring Minnesota home town to study art in a prestigious English speaking university in Montreal. With a barbed wire firmly set around her small frame because of a mistake that branded her the wrong way back home, she shuns everyone out and when finances become an issue, she becomes a cliché. She starts stripping to pay for college. She becomes Alicia. Most patrons at the club are your average gross, bald, middle aged guys who, on the one hand want to grope her (not allowed) but on the other want to mend her. Soon, the sensitive skin she has on display becomes thick, and life goes on. But one guy—young and hot—seems to neither want to grope nor mend her. It hurts when it shouldn’t, and she tries to shrug it off, until she sees him again. As the teacher of her Classic Photography class. Where she wears Converse, large sweaters and not a speck of make up. And what’s worse? The hot guy---no, teacher---might not have wanted Alicia, but he sure wants Hannah. A lot. That’s when lots of stuff hit the fan.
This NA really blew me away! The depiction of life in strip clubs was raw and evocative, but it avoided all the clichés we’re fed up seeing in films. The writer paints a vivid but not necessarily ugly picture of the girls. Sure, some of them end in the gutter, but some do not. And Hannah is determined not to. Although the obstacles that are thrown her way are overwhelmingly difficult to surpass, she finds the inner strength she didn’t know she had to fight back. I won’t give you the outcome, but this is one book I wouldn’t mind not having a traditional HEA. It was so good to read a fully fleshed-out character who stands her ground unwaveringly even if it means she’ll lose it all.
The male character, Emmanuel, is sweet and the perfect material to become a book boyfriend, but he was a weak link in the story. I’m not entirely sure I was rooting for him in the end. But I loved the way he treated Hannah (or ‘Annah as he is French) and the trips they took around Montreal and Quebec City were truly beautiful. I also loved the setting. Original, rich and … very Canadian :)
The writing is fantastic! One of the best NA I’ve read this year. Gritty and raw but with deep empathy and an ability to delve deep into the main characters’ psyche.
If you enjoy New Adult romances that are not buttery sweet, and feel you want to take a ride on the wild side, Shameless is what you should try.
I was offered a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
This NA really blew me away! The depiction of life in strip clubs was raw and evocative, but it avoided all the clichés we’re fed up seeing in films. The writer paints a vivid but not necessarily ugly picture of the girls. Sure, some of them end in the gutter, but some do not. And Hannah is determined not to. Although the obstacles that are thrown her way are overwhelmingly difficult to surpass, she finds the inner strength she didn’t know she had to fight back. I won’t give you the outcome, but this is one book I wouldn’t mind not having a traditional HEA. It was so good to read a fully fleshed-out character who stands her ground unwaveringly even if it means she’ll lose it all.
The male character, Emmanuel, is sweet and the perfect material to become a book boyfriend, but he was a weak link in the story. I’m not entirely sure I was rooting for him in the end. But I loved the way he treated Hannah (or ‘Annah as he is French) and the trips they took around Montreal and Quebec City were truly beautiful. I also loved the setting. Original, rich and … very Canadian :)
The writing is fantastic! One of the best NA I’ve read this year. Gritty and raw but with deep empathy and an ability to delve deep into the main characters’ psyche.
If you enjoy New Adult romances that are not buttery sweet, and feel you want to take a ride on the wild side, Shameless is what you should try.
I was offered a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
August 26, 2014
*Note: I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review*
The way this book was written was very captivating. The words worked well together to describe an interesting, forbidden-love story. We want what we can't have and how much are we willing to risk not only to have what we want but to believe we deserve it? I was truly sucked into this story full of angst, scared of vulnerability and spilling over with emotion.
This book makes the reader think about the labels we place on each other, the quick judgments we assume, and the shaming of others' choices we do on a daily basis. How often do we call names, assume the worst, or make snap judgments without truly knowing all the information. Do we ever walk a mile in someone's shoes these days before making up our minds about that person?
Hannah is a strong, independent woman who takes care of herself and doesn't want anyone's help. She fights hard against the generalizations and stereotype assumptions made about strippers. At heart, she's still that small town girl and still somewhat naive.
I loved the way Emmanuel was portrayed in this book. This character is a true gentleman. His losing battle to stay away from Hannah is endearing - He knows his job is at risk but aches to be with her. He wants a true relationship too. He wined and dined her even if being out in public could have put them even more at risk.
I would have liked more background about Hannah's past. While it's hinted at and eluded to, by the end of the book, it's still very vague what she had to endure that makes her feel and live as she does in the book.
The ending of the book was as strong as Hannah's character. She proved she could do what she needed to do for her to be strong and resilient and happy, and she didn't need some man to fix it for her. She finally was willing to own her story and the choices she made in life.
I had a really hard time putting the book down. I wanted to know where the story was going and how it would end. I wanted Hannah to get her happy ending, whichever version of that ending that was right for her. I can't say that I ever thought I would be reading a book where the main character is a stripper, but I'm glad that I read this story. I thank the author for providing me with a copy to read and would recommend this book to anyone who might be intrigued by anything I've described in this review.
The way this book was written was very captivating. The words worked well together to describe an interesting, forbidden-love story. We want what we can't have and how much are we willing to risk not only to have what we want but to believe we deserve it? I was truly sucked into this story full of angst, scared of vulnerability and spilling over with emotion.
This book makes the reader think about the labels we place on each other, the quick judgments we assume, and the shaming of others' choices we do on a daily basis. How often do we call names, assume the worst, or make snap judgments without truly knowing all the information. Do we ever walk a mile in someone's shoes these days before making up our minds about that person?
Hannah is a strong, independent woman who takes care of herself and doesn't want anyone's help. She fights hard against the generalizations and stereotype assumptions made about strippers. At heart, she's still that small town girl and still somewhat naive.
I loved the way Emmanuel was portrayed in this book. This character is a true gentleman. His losing battle to stay away from Hannah is endearing - He knows his job is at risk but aches to be with her. He wants a true relationship too. He wined and dined her even if being out in public could have put them even more at risk.
I would have liked more background about Hannah's past. While it's hinted at and eluded to, by the end of the book, it's still very vague what she had to endure that makes her feel and live as she does in the book.
The ending of the book was as strong as Hannah's character. She proved she could do what she needed to do for her to be strong and resilient and happy, and she didn't need some man to fix it for her. She finally was willing to own her story and the choices she made in life.
I had a really hard time putting the book down. I wanted to know where the story was going and how it would end. I wanted Hannah to get her happy ending, whichever version of that ending that was right for her. I can't say that I ever thought I would be reading a book where the main character is a stripper, but I'm glad that I read this story. I thank the author for providing me with a copy to read and would recommend this book to anyone who might be intrigued by anything I've described in this review.
December 24, 2015
Check out my review of Shameless by Nina Lemay at Books Equal Awesomeness!
**I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review.**
When I first heard about this book, I was really excited to read it because its cover was gorgeous to me and because it was from the point of view of a stripper, and I thought that the book seemed really unique. And it was! Before now, I don't think I've ever read a book like this!
The characters of the book were amazing and really well developed! The main character, Hannah wasn't one of those predictable narrators that make the whole book so boring. In the beginning of the book Hannah was really suspicious of guys and she basically thought that all guys had evil intentions behind their actions. That made me become REALLY curious about why she like that. She had to make a lot of decisions in this book, and I was really impressed by her at certain points of the book. Her teacher and love interest, Emmanuel, is also unpredictable and he's so…sweet… :) And Emmanuel and Hannah together? They are awesome! I feel like they are almost perfect for each other! He understands how she feels when no one else does, and is he really stands up for her when no one else does. Throughout the book, I saw a lot of character development. Hannah learned to accept who she was and not to let what other people thought about her to affect her. Emmanuel learned that he could trust Hannah because she wasn't like a stereotypical stripper.
There was a lot of romance in this book and there were some scenes between Hannah and Emmanuel that I found so sweet.
This book had a lot of dark thoughts and intentions. It was a bit unsettling at first and it made me a bit uncomfortable, but after I got used to it, I really got to enjoy the book. One problem I had with this book was that I was really curious about Hannah's past, but the only thing that was mentioned about her past throughout the book was Hannah's mother and there was just a little mention of something else from her past in the end, but it wasn't really detailed. Other than that, I really enjoyed the book and I would recommend it to people.
**I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review.**
When I first heard about this book, I was really excited to read it because its cover was gorgeous to me and because it was from the point of view of a stripper, and I thought that the book seemed really unique. And it was! Before now, I don't think I've ever read a book like this!
The characters of the book were amazing and really well developed! The main character, Hannah wasn't one of those predictable narrators that make the whole book so boring. In the beginning of the book Hannah was really suspicious of guys and she basically thought that all guys had evil intentions behind their actions. That made me become REALLY curious about why she like that. She had to make a lot of decisions in this book, and I was really impressed by her at certain points of the book. Her teacher and love interest, Emmanuel, is also unpredictable and he's so…sweet… :) And Emmanuel and Hannah together? They are awesome! I feel like they are almost perfect for each other! He understands how she feels when no one else does, and is he really stands up for her when no one else does. Throughout the book, I saw a lot of character development. Hannah learned to accept who she was and not to let what other people thought about her to affect her. Emmanuel learned that he could trust Hannah because she wasn't like a stereotypical stripper.
There was a lot of romance in this book and there were some scenes between Hannah and Emmanuel that I found so sweet.
This book had a lot of dark thoughts and intentions. It was a bit unsettling at first and it made me a bit uncomfortable, but after I got used to it, I really got to enjoy the book. One problem I had with this book was that I was really curious about Hannah's past, but the only thing that was mentioned about her past throughout the book was Hannah's mother and there was just a little mention of something else from her past in the end, but it wasn't really detailed. Other than that, I really enjoyed the book and I would recommend it to people.
September 30, 2014
Favorite Quotes:
“He reaches out, slowly, carefully, as if afraid to scare away a butterfly that alighted on his sleeve, and takes my hand.”
“Female friendship remains a strange and baffling thing to me. I’m thinking I might give up on the idea altogether.”
“I want to say me too. I want to tell him about all the empty hours and the mental tricks to think about something else. I want to tell him about what I saw in those photos I gave him and ask if that really was the way he saw me. But I was never very good with forming feelings into words. Maybe that’s why I always relied on shapes and colors.”
My Review:
This book is emotionally tense, tightly wound, and well written. I liked it, yet it annoyed me - although I am not a big fan of angst. The tale is written in first person and the main character, Hannah, was difficult for me to like, despite however much I wanted to. Hannah is a bit odd and has a somewhat toxic personality, and has become quite adept at keeping most people at bay. The author teased me with interesting yet tiny details about her characters, really just feeding me breadcrumbs… but she succeeds in stringing me along and never really revealing the meatier entrée of the backstory. I am greedy, I want the full meal. I want to know that deep dark secret that would ruin everything if it were exposed. She wouldn’t tell hers, he wouldn’t tell his, they danced around each other with uncomfortable awkwardness when attempting to open up to their issues, although they were obviously good together and had fantastic steamy sex. Add in the constraints of a forbidden relationship of teacher/student. He finally tells his history, but she never really fessed up to the totality of her dark traumatic secret. It was like having an itch you can’t reach, I find it rather maddening. Finally during the final pages, we get a little taste of her prior events, but it is just a glimmer, so I finished still feeling a bit itchy.
“He reaches out, slowly, carefully, as if afraid to scare away a butterfly that alighted on his sleeve, and takes my hand.”
“Female friendship remains a strange and baffling thing to me. I’m thinking I might give up on the idea altogether.”
“I want to say me too. I want to tell him about all the empty hours and the mental tricks to think about something else. I want to tell him about what I saw in those photos I gave him and ask if that really was the way he saw me. But I was never very good with forming feelings into words. Maybe that’s why I always relied on shapes and colors.”
My Review:
This book is emotionally tense, tightly wound, and well written. I liked it, yet it annoyed me - although I am not a big fan of angst. The tale is written in first person and the main character, Hannah, was difficult for me to like, despite however much I wanted to. Hannah is a bit odd and has a somewhat toxic personality, and has become quite adept at keeping most people at bay. The author teased me with interesting yet tiny details about her characters, really just feeding me breadcrumbs… but she succeeds in stringing me along and never really revealing the meatier entrée of the backstory. I am greedy, I want the full meal. I want to know that deep dark secret that would ruin everything if it were exposed. She wouldn’t tell hers, he wouldn’t tell his, they danced around each other with uncomfortable awkwardness when attempting to open up to their issues, although they were obviously good together and had fantastic steamy sex. Add in the constraints of a forbidden relationship of teacher/student. He finally tells his history, but she never really fessed up to the totality of her dark traumatic secret. It was like having an itch you can’t reach, I find it rather maddening. Finally during the final pages, we get a little taste of her prior events, but it is just a glimmer, so I finished still feeling a bit itchy.
October 14, 2014
Title: Shameless
Series: Standalone - No cliffhanger
Author: Nina Lemay
Release Date: 18th August 2014
Rating: 3.5 stars
I received a copy of this novel to review for Romance of Daydreams Book Blog.
From the start, I must say that it was the cover of this novel that grabbed my attention. The designer of this cover deserves 5 stars alone - I just adored all the elements that made up this cover - just gorgeous!
This is the story of a American girl, who ran from her home town to Canada to escape her past. Once in Canada, she attends a prestigious art school and strips to pay her way. One night while she is at work, she is introduced to a man - who unfortunately turns out to be a teacher in a new subject.
I was a little disappointed in this book, it took me such a long time to get into it - there was just no emotional connection for me with the characters. There was plenty of possibilities - but I just didn't feel it.
However, once I hit the 50% mark, I have to be honest and state that I did find myself more engaged in the story. And somehow the characters seemed to jump from the page to me better. Maybe it was as they became more deeply involved in each other, and the intrigue surrounding them started to get interesting.
I would advise everyone interested in these kinds of stories to definitely attempt this one - it does have promise. The whole secret, illicit affair with the older teacher, secret histories and backstabbing class mates - it does grab you once pass the half way mark.
Series: Standalone - No cliffhanger
Author: Nina Lemay
Release Date: 18th August 2014
Rating: 3.5 stars
I received a copy of this novel to review for Romance of Daydreams Book Blog.
From the start, I must say that it was the cover of this novel that grabbed my attention. The designer of this cover deserves 5 stars alone - I just adored all the elements that made up this cover - just gorgeous!
This is the story of a American girl, who ran from her home town to Canada to escape her past. Once in Canada, she attends a prestigious art school and strips to pay her way. One night while she is at work, she is introduced to a man - who unfortunately turns out to be a teacher in a new subject.
I was a little disappointed in this book, it took me such a long time to get into it - there was just no emotional connection for me with the characters. There was plenty of possibilities - but I just didn't feel it.
However, once I hit the 50% mark, I have to be honest and state that I did find myself more engaged in the story. And somehow the characters seemed to jump from the page to me better. Maybe it was as they became more deeply involved in each other, and the intrigue surrounding them started to get interesting.
I would advise everyone interested in these kinds of stories to definitely attempt this one - it does have promise. The whole secret, illicit affair with the older teacher, secret histories and backstabbing class mates - it does grab you once pass the half way mark.
June 18, 2016
Hasta estas 2 estrellas me salen un poco difícil.
Fue un libro que lo más quería era terminarlo. Todo en el era un tanto cuanto previsible, nada realmente me sorprendió, pero de igual modo no me gusta dejar un libro sin terminar.
Creó que la autora hizo una personaje principal que hacia con que el libro se hiciera más y más pesado, porque por la mayor parte del libro Hannah es un tanto cuanto insuportable. La verdad no entiendo lo que Emmanuel vio en ella. Y no es por su profesión porque ya leí algunos otros libros que las personajes tenían la misma profesión y eso me impidió de entenderlas, conectarme con ellas o de que me gustaran. Ya con Hannah no fue así.
Buena parte del libro es Hannah piensando mal de los otros y se portanto de forma incomprensible. En serio, habia veces que no lograba entender nada del porque de sus motivaciones por detrás de su forma de actuar. Igual creó que sus motivaciones tras seren reveladas son tan débiles, me esperaba algo mucho más fuerte.
Los personajes de forma geral eran total contraditórios, hablaban una cosa y al secundo ya hacían todo al revés de lo habían dicho. Y que solo fuera un POV no ayudó mucho con la narración porque había veces que seria muy bueno saber lo que pasaba por la miente de Emmanuel y eso habría dado más dinámica a la historia.
Creó que lo que me hace no dar solo una estrella es que para el final del libro fue un poco más interesante. Sin embargo el libro parece que se termina faltando páginas. La resolución de la historia es muy abruta y deja muy a desear.
Fue un libro que lo más quería era terminarlo. Todo en el era un tanto cuanto previsible, nada realmente me sorprendió, pero de igual modo no me gusta dejar un libro sin terminar.
Creó que la autora hizo una personaje principal que hacia con que el libro se hiciera más y más pesado, porque por la mayor parte del libro Hannah es un tanto cuanto insuportable. La verdad no entiendo lo que Emmanuel vio en ella. Y no es por su profesión porque ya leí algunos otros libros que las personajes tenían la misma profesión y eso me impidió de entenderlas, conectarme con ellas o de que me gustaran. Ya con Hannah no fue así.
Buena parte del libro es Hannah piensando mal de los otros y se portanto de forma incomprensible. En serio, habia veces que no lograba entender nada del porque de sus motivaciones por detrás de su forma de actuar. Igual creó que sus motivaciones tras seren reveladas son tan débiles, me esperaba algo mucho más fuerte.
Los personajes de forma geral eran total contraditórios, hablaban una cosa y al secundo ya hacían todo al revés de lo habían dicho. Y que solo fuera un POV no ayudó mucho con la narración porque había veces que seria muy bueno saber lo que pasaba por la miente de Emmanuel y eso habría dado más dinámica a la historia.
Creó que lo que me hace no dar solo una estrella es que para el final del libro fue un poco más interesante. Sin embargo el libro parece que se termina faltando páginas. La resolución de la historia es muy abruta y deja muy a desear.
February 3, 2017
2017 Around the Year in 52 books #45 A book with a one-word title
Si bien el argumento de la historia es un cliché enorme, como nos recuerdan la autora y la protagonista varias veces, esta historia logró entretenerme y conmoverme.Nos muestra todo desde un punto de vista medio particular. Finalmente, hace una denuncia social sobre todo este tema.
La confesión hizo que me decida en darle esta nota. Me conmovió un montón y hasta me dio de pensar.
Nunca me dices lo que estas pensando, lo que quieres o te hace enojar. Me dejas intentar y descifrar todo. Siento que estoy en un constante navegar por un campo de minas contigo, tratando de encontrar la manera de evitar golpear uno de tus puntos sensibles. Y no se si lo he hecho hasta que es demasiado tarde y estas atacándome.
Si bien el argumento de la historia es un cliché enorme, como nos recuerdan la autora y la protagonista varias veces, esta historia logró entretenerme y conmoverme.Nos muestra todo desde un punto de vista medio particular. Finalmente, hace una denuncia social sobre todo este tema.
La confesión hizo que me decida en darle esta nota. Me conmovió un montón y hasta me dio de pensar.
Enseñas las tetas y la vagina a todo el mundo por uno de veinte, ¿Que esperas? ¿Crees que a la policía le importará que en realidad alguien gaste dinero en ti?
July 9, 2015
I have been reading romance novels since I was 16. Professor romances are my favorite. This book had so much potential. I adore Professor … forbidden romance novels.
But this had me wanting to flip through… I literally fast forwarded until near the end of the book to get It over with. Then felt bad for wasting my $4.99! If you love emotional romances… hot with passion and forbidden mystery… this is NOT your book. SPOILER: This book is about a girl literally spending the entire book treating a wonderful guy like crap … the guy, who clearly has no backbone, puts up with it and follows her around like a puppy. The entire book is spent with her not wanting to say what happened to make her such a horrible b*tch with issues… then she finally says it at the end and I was looking at the book like THAT’S IT???? That is what caused you to be so issue consumed? Children have been through horrible horrible abuse in their lives and this chick had none of that. If you want to feel like slitting your wrists then read it… but if you want to leave with a feel good attitude… and happy about a happy ending DON’T read this. That’s the only warning I can give!
But this had me wanting to flip through… I literally fast forwarded until near the end of the book to get It over with. Then felt bad for wasting my $4.99! If you love emotional romances… hot with passion and forbidden mystery… this is NOT your book. SPOILER: This book is about a girl literally spending the entire book treating a wonderful guy like crap … the guy, who clearly has no backbone, puts up with it and follows her around like a puppy. The entire book is spent with her not wanting to say what happened to make her such a horrible b*tch with issues… then she finally says it at the end and I was looking at the book like THAT’S IT???? That is what caused you to be so issue consumed? Children have been through horrible horrible abuse in their lives and this chick had none of that. If you want to feel like slitting your wrists then read it… but if you want to leave with a feel good attitude… and happy about a happy ending DON’T read this. That’s the only warning I can give!
August 19, 2014
Shameless calls itself "a new adult romance" and it certainly is! Get ready to read a book that is "real" and not some "foo foo" romance novel about a damsel in distress being picked up by a man on horseback. I very much enjoyed the sense of "real" that I got from reading this book -- you will get REAL dialogue, REAL characters and REAL interactions that happen among people when it comes to sex, drugs, partying, romance... I love books that not only use dialogue and descriptions to develop their characters, but the inward thoughts of the characters. You will see this in Shameless -- and not to compare it to the classic Mrs. Dalloway or anything, but that technique WAS state of the art at sometime and it is still cherished in skilled writing. If you are into romance novels and you've Fifty Shades of Gray been there, done that, check out Shameless and you will NOT be disappointed! I truly loved it!
August 19, 2014
I have never read anything by this author before, but the cover and blurb immediately drew me in. I am so glad that I went with that feeling. It was a wonderful book, about a girl that is trying to make it on her own. You have to do, what you have to do. Hannah takes on a job that will pay her bills and help her through school. She never expected to one day be dancing for a guy and the next, find him teaching her Photography class. What happens when her two worlds collide? She ends up falling...and hard. The interactions between the Professor and student are well written and their chemistry...well, let's just say you might need a cold shower. I thoroughly enjoyed it and it is one of the books on the top of my list. A definite recommended read.
September 2, 2014
Great read for romance fans!
I love to read good, interesting romance novels and “Shameless” is definitely one of them. This is an interesting story with great main character in the foreground – young student girl Hannah, who finds herself in an unenviable situation with secrets, double life and passionate forbidden love with her professor.
The story has compelling plot, surprises, twists and turns, it is also well written, very entertaining and what is most important, it really draws you into it really fast.
Definitely a great read for all romance fans!
I love to read good, interesting romance novels and “Shameless” is definitely one of them. This is an interesting story with great main character in the foreground – young student girl Hannah, who finds herself in an unenviable situation with secrets, double life and passionate forbidden love with her professor.
The story has compelling plot, surprises, twists and turns, it is also well written, very entertaining and what is most important, it really draws you into it really fast.
Definitely a great read for all romance fans!
August 19, 2014
This book was really good...had way more substance to it than just some girl working a stripper pole...first book for me by this author and I like her writing style...Hannah was talented and resilient...Emmanuel was understanding and smitten with Hannah...this book displays redemption, forgiveness of oneself, acceptance of oneself etc...I would definitely recommend!!
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October 8, 2014I am not sure how to rate this book. I couldnt get into for real and I kept picking it up and setting it down. I am going to hold off giving it a rating until I can process my thoughts more.
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