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Continental Affair #2

Continental Beginnings

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Alternate cover image for ASIN B00DY91L70

Warning: Written for mature and open-minded individuals. Contains detailed graphic sexual encounters, including bondage and discipline.

Written from Mr. Pettifor's POV.

From the first day Mr. Pettifor laid eyes on Bella Darcy, he knew he couldn't deny himself the indulgence of being with her. Against his better judgement, he hired her, knowing full well he would pay the price with her constant presence. Little did the alpha male know that before him stood a woman who yearned for his touch, his control and his training.

By day, Mr. Pettifor was a hard working businessman and a force to be reckoned with. At night, he was a talented and skilled instructor at a domestic disclipline training center and an austere alpha male whom women bowed at his feet.

At a crossroads in her life, Bella had started a new career path, hoping to one day go to medical school. When she applied as the personal assistant to the inscrutable Mr. Pettifor, she never thought it would lead to anything more than an interview.

This is the story of Mr. Pettifor, a man who took for granted the love and adoration given to him until it was taken away, and how he fell in love with the woman he trained to be everything he ever wanted. This is the tale of the shy and fearful Ms. Darcy and how she flourished under his command, never knowing of his secret life, never asking questions, and yet, somehow finding her true courageous self in the process.

This is the story of how their relationship began.

55 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 14, 2013

10 people are currently reading
435 people want to read

About the author

Ella Dominguez

133 books1,576 followers
bizcardTYPEWRITER

Ella is a self-proclaimed lover, dreamer, and wanderer who is unequivocally obsessed with ukuleles and unicorns. She is a respiratory therapist by day and a writer by night. While she refuses to be confined by genre labels, she believes her talent best lies in writing passion-filled, ethnically diverse, suspenseful novels. More of an avid reader than an author, she is committed to writing the stories that the characters in her head tell her to.

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5 stars
154 (29%)
4 stars
202 (38%)
3 stars
124 (23%)
2 stars
40 (7%)
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10 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
Profile Image for Pam.
1,093 reviews1,071 followers
September 14, 2013
3 stars
"Just like clay, I’m able to sculpt her into the perfect instrument for my pleasure."



Continental Beginnings takes place before up to where Continental Breakfast ended. It is told from Xander’s POV; how Bella came to him and the months and years that pass living the life of their “working” relationship. Xander refuses to believe his feelings for Bella, but with the way Bella beautifully submits to his every whim and desire, he begins to wonder what he ever did to gain such a loyal woman, never making demands, content to just please him.

This was another super short read, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with this one, although this provided me some background on the two, I was hoping for a bit more, I guess we will have to wait and see what the next one brings, but I probably will wait until the entire series is done before I continue on. Good enough read to pass the time though, and it definitely leaves a lasting impression, Xander and Bella’s work relationship was truly unique.
Profile Image for Amber Rose.
321 reviews840 followers
July 12, 2013
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Ella does it again... She is amazing. I WANT no I NEED more of these books. I hate that they are short stories. I turn my kindle thinking "this can't be all" but it is. Which is sad. Cause these two characters have more to say.

If you have not read Continental Breakfast than you need to do so. Continental breakfast is the first book and is in Bella's POV. It's also a short story.

Continental Beginnings is the second book. And is in Mr. Pettifor POV. But not from where the last story takes off. The story begins on Bella's interview. That's all I am going to say. Within a few pages it turns into breathing heavily to panting like a fucking dog. Uh.. It was so fucking HOT .

As you can tell this is a must read for sure!!! So, read it and be prepared to get wet!! :)

I received and ARC for exchanged for an honest review.
Profile Image for Robin (Bridge Four).
1,949 reviews1,660 followers
January 14, 2014
These are definitely 18+ short stories.

I enjoyed the Continental Breakfast so much I decided to spend a little more time with these characters. Continental Beginnings is Dom Lite and a fun quick read. Told solely from Mr. Pettifor perspective this tackles the interview in which they met and how the work relationship progressed. It covers only the time before Continental Breakfast and the three months that he was missing during it.

I very much liked getting the male perspective on this story as well and why he was so reluctant to just express himself. It wasn’t a necessary read but since I liked the characters and it was also short I gave it a try. I still liked Continental Breakfast better but reading about some of the other escapades of Ms Darcy and Mr Pettifor was fun, sensual and erotic. Very enjoyable if you liked the first short story.
Profile Image for Amy.
1,030 reviews100 followers
September 8, 2013
5 SEXY STARS!! This is the second installment in the Continental Affair series! This time we get the story from Mr. Pettifor’s POV and it is delicious!!! From Bella’s initial interview, he is completely drawn to her and her submissive nature. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow and progress from his point of view, so we can understand his past, his feelings, and why he treats her the way he does. I can’t wait for book #3!!

ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for AD.
73 reviews18 followers
July 11, 2013
I had the honor of beta reading Continental Beginnings...(Thank You Ella!) and I was thrilled (being that I loved the first novella) at having the opportunity to read more about Xander and Bella!
I loved that it is Xander's POV. You learn so much more about his character and his inner monologue was not what I expected him to be thinking but I thoroughly enjoyed it! I now adore him and all his alpha male ways even more than I did in Continental Breakfast.

And if you are wondering yes, yes it is very
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I can't wait to read Continental Life! :D

K, That's All
Profile Image for Didi.
865 reviews283 followers
July 18, 2013
So short! yet so GOOD!!! I want, need, crave MORE!!! The 2nd instalment in this delish series is in Mr. Pettifor's POV and that man is on f-i-r-e!! This series is hot and sweet all at the same time.
And despite it's length--56ish pages--it really packs a punch!

I really wish we got more because I always get the sense that there is more to say, more to experience and more to love. I don't find the characters one dimensional or flaky, I actually find them intriguing and want to know what makes them tick. And the sexy times are explosive! not overdone and drawn out but just perfect, always making you want more.

This is honestly one hell of a gem that is hot, hot, hot!!!!! Can't wait for the third!!
Profile Image for .Lili. .
1,275 reviews276 followers
Want to read
July 16, 2013
EARLY RELEASE!!!

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Profile Image for Eliza.
661 reviews847 followers
July 14, 2013
This was my first outing as a Beta Reader (Thanks again Ella!) and I couldn't have asked for a better piece to start with.
This isn't my first rodeo reading something by Ella Dominguez, I love her work and unique take on a subject matter.
The subject in question.. Mr Pettifor, The CEO, The Boss, The Man, The Lover... The man is just too Hot!
Told from his POV, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed reading something from a solely male perspective.
I loved the chemistry and developement of the relationship between himself and Bella and very much look forward to Continental Life
By the by, I'll forever have a secret smile on my face when I hear someone order the Continental.
Profile Image for Beth.
Author 4 books132 followers
July 24, 2013
Well...

After reading Continental Breakfast, I found through Goodreads that there had recently been a second novella released from our beloved Xander's POV. Of course I snapped it up at the earliest possibility because who wouldn't want to get into the mind of a rich and horny CEO?

Anyway, this was brilliant. I loved reading from the other side, and I loved to see the relationship between the two characters grow. As I have said in my review of Continental Breakfast, I could easily read a full length book on these two.

Recommend this as a short, steamy read inbetween some angsty books! Get some alpha CEO into your blood! :)
Profile Image for Diana.
186 reviews17 followers
July 13, 2013
Mr. Pettifor's POV, I really really was happily surprised to get inside his head. I wasn't disappointed either, nope I was drawn in! He was definitely one of those characters that I couldn't figure out. In Continental Breakfast (Continental Affair, #1, I found him to be so uptight and a jerk, so getting into his head was a treat. I can't wait for the 3 book, hopefully we will get a little of both Bella and Xander pov! These novella are turning into quite a fun, steam little series!
Profile Image for Nicole.
1,839 reviews38 followers
April 28, 2014
Another quick, entertaining story about Ms. Darcy and Mr. Pettifor, told from Mr. Pettifor's view of how Ms. Darcy came to work for his company. I just wish we could learn more about his first marriage.
Profile Image for Laylaw.
323 reviews5 followers
July 15, 2013

5+++++++++ AMAZING STARS!!! (I received this ARC for my honest review- THANK YOU ELLA) Continental Beginnings is the prequel to Continental Breakfast where we get to learn how Mr. Pettifor met Ms. Darcy and how their relationship began. I loved that this was all in Mr. Pettifor's POV, because in Continental Breakfast he came off as a little cold. However we find out why Mr. Pettifor behaves the way he does and we get his inner thoughts on Ms. Darcy. I just love the sweet things he says to Bella but sadly they are all in his head, but we get to see why he wanted their relationship this particular way because he was burned in the past.

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This book starts off with the Mr. Pettifor searching for a new assist and we get to see that how he conducts Bella's interview is different than any other interview he has done. Ms. Darcy immediately fits his needs and goes above and beyond Mr. Pettifor's expectations. Ms. Darcy easily fits into a submissive role to Mr. Pettifor's dominate one. We also find out that Mr. Pettifor is a teacher of sorts at a submissive training school and we find that Mr. Pettifor starts to lose his normal knack for the student body because he has issues focusing with Ms. Darcy on the brain.

As the story progresses we see more of Ms. Darcy and Mr. Pettifor's interactions over their two year span together and how well, they fit together and we get the pieces to the puzzle of what Mr. Pettifor was really thinking when Ms. Darcy finally resigned. The book ends with Mr. Pettifor finding Ms. Darcy on the park bench and we finally have both parts to their story ending in the same place. Oh how I wish this book was longer!! I wish it was 500 pages because I swear these two need lots of page time. They complement each other perfectly and they need more time to completely let themselves open up about their true feelings. Awesome read, I cannot wait for more..... Just like Mr. Pettifor, I am HUNGRY.
Profile Image for Mary.
106 reviews
July 15, 2013
I received an Advanced Reader's Copy in exchange for a unbiased review. Well, as the title states: I. LOVED. IT!!!

We meet Bella and Mr. Pettifor after their relationship has been evolving for 2 years and Bella makes the painful decision to leave her employment and Mr. Pettifor.

"Continental Beginnings" takes us back to the very beginning, when Mr. Pettifor is interviewing for his vacant Personal Assistant position. He meets Bella who is unsophisticated, inexperienced but so eager to please. And, ultimately, Mr. Pettifor meets his match.

Ella Dominguez writes a story that is lighthearted, yet poignant at the same time. Mr. Pettifor has the best intentions of NOT falling for Bella, but we see him sinking as the novella evolves. Mr. Pettifor is a true alpha, from his Instructor role at the school to his Executive position and, certainly, where Bella is concerned. He can be arrogant and cold, but a word or a look can instantly stir Bella (and me, the reader)up. He is sexy and dominant and provocative and the relationship he shares with Bella is oh, so, hot.

I loved watching the character development of both Bella and Mr. Pettifor and love that they were able to find their way to each other.

"Continental Beginnings" answered questions I did not realize I had based on the first novella and reading the story from Mr. Pettifor's perspective was wildly entertaining.

My hat is off to Ella for a fun, sexy wonderful read. I think I have to go back and re-read them both. I am looking forward to "Continental Life". I am sure it will be another winner.
Profile Image for Ava.
1,028 reviews23 followers
October 13, 2013
Huh?!?!? The ending sent me sad.... I said "oh the end" but I knew what happened because when I started this one, I left it may be after 20% just to refresh my memory so I went back to the first one " continental breakfast".
So with the book, I was so surprised. it was the beginning and in his POV. Who knew!! ( that was on my mind from the beginning to the end)
with the " who knew" those solved the mysteries about Mr Pettifor. While in the 1st book, I only get to know their story not the whole but thank to this one I got so much more!
so much more about the insight!
But near the end, I was pouting a bit with disappointment because I didn't to read about first book. my wish was soon reward and was so well written.
yep I felt not really in love with him but he is closed to it.
how strong he became how cold he became and stayed like that when all he wanted was to be able to show to her his true self. And she was right.
I remembered something I said about the first book, it seemed to be lacking of background story but I didn't feel the need of one because I felt so much already. and in this one it felt a lot more.
so the author totally surprised me. those book were short read but not short in emotions.
And well I also asking myself when will he truly show himself because he's a dom and instructor. so gonna wait for book 3!
Profile Image for Tina.
285 reviews38 followers
October 14, 2013
4.5 Stars!

WONDERFUL...For a short. I'll admit, my rating is biased because I'm a fan of this series. But if all you're looking for is a short and not a full length novel, this one is a good one to read. There's a lot of time lapses, but it is just the same story in a different POV so it's understandable that only certain scenes get picked out. Like the first book, I really wish that this one was longer as it definitely would've made a fantastic full length, but I'll take what I can get.

It's interesting reading in Xander's POV. His struggle with his feelings for Bella are a lot more evident than from her POV. The way he reacts to it contrasts greatly with the persona we're presented in Bella's eyes, but don't worry ladies, he's still a dom in the bed. ;)

Overall, I really enjoyed the short. I recommend the book for those who enjoyed the first one and encourage those who haven't read it yet to start the series. If you're looking for a short story with a bit of romance, a lot of sex, and some dom/sub action, this one is for you!
Profile Image for Heather in FL.
2,063 reviews
July 30, 2013
This story starts out before Continental Breakfast and is Xander's point of view of how he met and became so enamored of Bella. I'm not quite sure I understood how the training center really fit the story, other than to show that (a) he has dominant tendencies (which we already knew really) and (b) we learn that he loses interest in the physical aspects of that "job" due to his relationship with Bella.

But I found his point of view very interesting, how he was trying so hard to hold himself back from Bella. How she was so submissive that most times she felt like his reactions to her were her failings (shame on you, Xander!). How crazy her submissiveness drove Xander. How insensitive he could be, lol. I didn't like where it ended though, lol. I suppose where it ended gives me something to look forward to in the last one, which I definitely look forward to. Xander and Bella may have an unconventional relationship, but it's sweet.
Profile Image for Lariza.
368 reviews75 followers
July 19, 2013
Wow this was such a great read!! I love Mr. Pettifor!!!! I liked the first book, but this installment was oh so good!! Mr. Pettifor needs a new PA and when he interviews Bella Darcy he knows she's it!! Their interaction is scorching, hot!! Ms. Darcy's submissive nature very much appeals to Xander and he intends to make her his. Seeing the progression of their relationship from his POV was refreshing and showed Xander's emotions and fears which he kept bottled up. Bella was a danger to his resolve as he fought daily against his deep feelings for her!!! I loved Mr. Pettifor's dominant side- his need to possess Bella in every way!!! I highly recommend this series and cannot wait to read more of Mr. Pettifor and Ms. Darcy. A big thanks to Ella for giving me the opportunity to read this book - you rock and I look forward to reading more of your work.
Profile Image for Nastassia Leslie.
6 reviews11 followers
July 25, 2013
First of all, I wanna thank Ella for sending me an advanced reader's copy of Continental Beginnings. I have always been a fan of her and all of her books.

Must I say, I fell in love with Mr. Pettifor and Ms. Darcy. Bella slowly grew into a woman, who is not her, but someone better. Their love story isn't the ordinary where they immediately fall in love with each other. They had to encounter different obstacles before realising that they can't live without each other.

I love how the book is balanced out. It's not too heavy for the heart, but it stirs your emotions, both for Miss Darcy and Mr. Pettifor. Continental Beginnings also makes you want to read all of Ella's other books!!!
Profile Image for Rosemary Rey.
Author 12 books215 followers
December 13, 2014
It was helpful to learn of Mr. Pettifor's point of view and how he came to select Bella as his administrative assistant. I was relieved to read he didn't use all his admins in the way he conducted his life with Bella. I loved knowing Bella was the only woman he wanted to be with. I'm a stickler for monogamy, and he was definitely a one-woman-man. It was interesting to read the way he subtly created his ideal woman, and how receptive Bella was to his "guidance". I could sense the longing, but not sure I was able to see the love--yet. I was eager to read the next book and was happy to have purchased the bundle.
Profile Image for Yve.
1,114 reviews
July 17, 2013
Hot, steamy, sexy read. If you've read Continental Breakfast, then you know that Xander Pettifor has peculiar breakfast needs. In Continental Beginnings you learn how his needs developed and why he thought that Bella was definitely the right girl for the job as his personal assistant. I loved that Beginnings was in Mr. Pettifor's POV; you get to see why he always seemed so cold and stand-offish in Continental Breakfast. I'm certainly looking forward to seeing how Xander & Bella's relationship developed in Continental Life.
Profile Image for Adriane (◉‿◉) .
172 reviews
July 16, 2013
This book is written from Mr. Pettifor's POV. if you want to know him better you should read this book,it would enlighten you on what he feels in the time Bella leaves him; Why didn't he said I love you to, when Bella confessed her love to him.; You will get to know on why he doesn't want to show his emotions towards Bella. In this book you will still get to love and like Mr. Pettifors the oh-so-generous-lover, surely this book won't disappoint you it will leave you reeling and wanting more of their story as lovers.

P.S. The sexy scenes are still HOT as ever ;)
Profile Image for J.
3,104 reviews50 followers
July 28, 2013
Really a 4.5 star

I love these smutty, naughty little books (also Continenal Breakfast which should be read first, but doesn't have to be). There is something so neat and pristine about Mr. Pettifor and Bella even when they are really doing the dirtiest things and she seems such a prim and proper lady until she bends over the table. These are delightful books that I have really enjoyed. There is a #3 book coming (soon, I hope).
Profile Image for Alison Roeder.
130 reviews15 followers
September 15, 2013
I absolutely loved this from Xanders POV. He is such a dick for neglecting his woman.
But, his love is pure. I had so much fun with this series. I love playing the naughty secretary lol.
I cannot wait to read more or the future of these two lovers. Ella has done it again, and gave us a couple who believe love prevails over all.

Congratulations Ella. It was wonderful.
Profile Image for Kimberly.
684 reviews35 followers
September 3, 2016
I thought it couldn't get better, and what does Ella Dominguez do? She writes another book with Xander's pov! I loved every minute of this book. Xander (that's Mr. Pettifor to you) is just yummy. That is all I could think of while I was reading it, he is just yummy! Love his wit and humor, he was a joy to read about!
337 reviews2 followers
July 10, 2014
This is a book written in Xander's POV and does he have lots to say!!!

As usual, Ella brightens up each page with her no-holds barred writing skills. Clean, fresh and honestly written, no added filler or fluff, just straight to the point, straight down to the nitty gritty and trust me, Ella Dominguez writes nitty gritty better than most!!

Can't wait for part 3!!
Profile Image for Traviesa.
447 reviews
September 7, 2013
I loved it. Well I LOVE this book as a whole because it was from Mr. Pettifor's POV. I absolutely love how we got to read it from his POV. Read his thoughts and feelings and get more background info on why he is the way he is. Just freakin' AWESOME!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews

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