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Taken
***USAToday HEA Recommended Read*** ***Top 10 Multicultural/Interracial*** ***Top 10 Historical Romance*** The playboy... Khalid Francois Duïs is a man who isn't afraid to take what he wants. And what he wants is Olivia Bryant. His best friend's sister, she was supposed to be off limits. Instead, Olivia quickly becomes a fever in his blood he simply can't shake, and Khalid will do whatever it takes to have her. The independent woman... Olivia Bryant vows to never marry, instead choosing to focus on her career. But a clandestine encounter with Khalid threatens her resolve. Though her mind says no, her body screams yes. Her only option is to reject the arrogant playboy who believes a woman's place is in his bed. When Olivia rejects Khalid's advances, he takes matters in his own hands and whisks her away to placate his obsession. From the tempestuous passion of their first encounter, across stormy seas, to a beautiful oasis in Africa, Olivia becomes his prisoner and a slave to Khalid’s all-consuming seduction.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2014
34 people are currently reading
452 people want to read
About the author
Koko Brown
21 books306 followersKoko Brown is the pseudonym for a quintessential erotic romance junkie who once read over 200 Zebra Club novels the summer before her senior year in high school.
Koko’s writing career began at the tender age of nine when she self-published and distributed a newspaper to her fellow classmates. Unfortunately, her grade school school principal didn’t appreciate the competition and put her out of business after one best-selling issue.
Undaunted, Koko continued to write and read everything she could get her hands on. She honed her writing skills as a staff writer on her college’s newspaper, writing obituaries for the local newspaper, and teaching English to high school students.
One day while daydreaming in bed, Koko came up with the idea for her first erotic manuscript. Taking a hiatus from teaching, she had enough time on her hands to flesh out the story in two short weeks. A week later, she cleaned it up, then sent it to Ellora’s Cave during the Christmas holiday. By January she heard from one of their editors and by March (and many revisions) she signed a contract for her vampire novel Charmed.
Calling the east coast of Florida home, this multipublished author of interracial erotic romance loves to travel, shop in thrift stores, ride motorcycles, renovate houses, and volunteering.
Koko’s writing career began at the tender age of nine when she self-published and distributed a newspaper to her fellow classmates. Unfortunately, her grade school school principal didn’t appreciate the competition and put her out of business after one best-selling issue.
Undaunted, Koko continued to write and read everything she could get her hands on. She honed her writing skills as a staff writer on her college’s newspaper, writing obituaries for the local newspaper, and teaching English to high school students.
One day while daydreaming in bed, Koko came up with the idea for her first erotic manuscript. Taking a hiatus from teaching, she had enough time on her hands to flesh out the story in two short weeks. A week later, she cleaned it up, then sent it to Ellora’s Cave during the Christmas holiday. By January she heard from one of their editors and by March (and many revisions) she signed a contract for her vampire novel Charmed.
Calling the east coast of Florida home, this multipublished author of interracial erotic romance loves to travel, shop in thrift stores, ride motorcycles, renovate houses, and volunteering.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
April 13, 2017
I reached that moment in a story, when you realize these people are so annoying and don't care what happens to them. DNF
October 29, 2014
I didn't hate this book, but I definitely thought I would like it more than I did. Review to come...
Full Review
I want to start off by saying that the cover of Taken is one of my favorite covers of the year. It is striking in the intensity of the model's stare and clearly it's not a cover that has launched a thousand previous books.This guy just seems to stare through you (even though he's a bit heavy on the smudgy eyeliner) and dares you to pass up on the opportunity to read his story inside. With that cover and a fair idea of what the book was about, I was pretty certain I was in for a fantastic few hours of reading. I mean, this had all of the makings of a book that I should have loved. A story set in the early 1900s. African-American siblings who were not destitute, but educated and successful. A heroine who's a nurse in 1908 and a foreign hero, arrogant and unwilling to take no for an answer. Strong and plucky, our heroine is someone who would keep our hero on his toes and make him work for her affections. Add in a journey to Africa and rich, descriptive writing - well, just gimme a comfy spot, a glass of wine and don't interrupt me I'm reading. Sigh. Unfortunately, Taken didn't earn the five star rating that I would like to give it. There were some parts that just didn't work for me. These problems aren't so bad that I hated the book or that I wouldn't recommend it, but they were annoying, eye-rolling and "yeah right!" inducing nonetheless.
An Idea of What It's About
Khalid Francois Duïs is a wealthy man who is in New York preparing to race in the Vanderbilt Cup. He's been invited to the home of his former roommate from Yale, Dr. Harry Bryant, whom he hasn't seen in years. Khalid is a chauvinist but in all fairness his beliefs are more than likely cultural, and again it is 1908. Unbeknownst to him, as he's spewing his views on women and the only purpose he believes they serve, Harry's sister Olivia overhears him. The two have never met, but the comments flowing out of his mouth are enough to make her instantly dislike him. Unfortunately, her body and hormones seem to be at odds with her brain and her reactions show that she likes him quite a bit. In fact, she can barely think properly once she actually lays eyes on the man. Khalid is also highly attracted to Olivia, almost mesmerized by her. He instantly knows that he wants to get her in his bed, despite her being his friend's sister. Unfortunately, he is rejected after sharing an intimate moment and making her an offer. Ego trampled he decides to take matters into his own hands. Despite his friendship with Harry, Khalid kidnaps Olivia so that he can have her until he's tired of her. A test of wills ensues, but emotions and acceptance eventually change both of their outlooks. But when doubt raises its ugly head decisions that greatly affect them both are made.
The Good
The book opens to Khalid playing a game of Russian roulette. He is empty, devoid of hope and the will to live. This is conveyed so eloquently that it immediately sucked me right in. What had happened to put him in such a state? What kind of seedy place was this? What a great way to start off a book! Later in the story, the author's description of the establishment where he is trying to end his life is vivid, as is the reactions of his two brothers. Their disgust and horror over the place and Khalild's actions are just wonderful. Khalid's downward spiral isn't something that he simply shook off either. I would have loved a bit more about his recovery, but I understand the size of the book only allowed so much of that. Still, I'm glad he wasn't a superman unfazed by the destructive path that he'd taken.
Another great feature of this story is the travel aspect and the obvious research that went into it. I also really liked Harry and Khalid's friendship. They bonded while in college where they were both outsiders in a predominately white, and I imagine prejudiced, university. Although they hadn't kept in touch, the affection was there.
The Bad
Okay, I didn't like Olivia's character. Her behavior was contradictory and she just didn't seem believable to me. To go into much detail would be to give too much away, but lets just say that Khalid must be working with some pretty powerful pheromones, cause Miss Olivia could barely control herself. One dinner near this man and girlfriend was exploring herself and ready to let him do a little exploration too! If you take into consideration that Olivia lived in 1908 then it really wasn't proper behavior (read the book and you'll get where I'm coming from here). I get the author wanted Olivia to be a modern woman, but I felt her modern behavior should have been consistent with the time period. She was too modern at times if that makes sense.
Khalid and Olivia in love? I guess I couldn't see it or understand how it happened. They eventually start sexing it up, and you know from the start that they have some seriously lustful feelings towards one another, but it felt like she just sort of succumbs. Once Olivia succumbs to his magnetism and both of their lust, he manages to miraculously shut off the chauvinism gene and he does a few considerate things. This in turn leads to a case of Stockholm Syndrome. Khalid on the other hand is just obsessed with her, yet it didn't come off as love. Maybe if there had been some great adventure after the kidnapping that made them really see each other and eventually fall in love, but nope - didn't happen that way.
My Final Thoughts:
Despite my complaints Taken isn't a terrible book. There are some very strong scenes that grab you and it is wonderfully researched. Perhaps I just expected too much of Taken because it didn't meet my expectations or hopes for it. I wish it felt more historical and that there had been an honest romance and a grand adventure. This won't be a problem for many, I'm sure, but it was a problem for me. Overall I didn't put the book down and I don't feel that it was a waste of my time. Despite not meeting its potential, I do recommend reading it for the imagery alone and for a few hours of light escape. Taken gets a 3 out of 5 rating from me.
For more reviews visit Romance Between the Covers
Full Review
I want to start off by saying that the cover of Taken is one of my favorite covers of the year. It is striking in the intensity of the model's stare and clearly it's not a cover that has launched a thousand previous books.This guy just seems to stare through you (even though he's a bit heavy on the smudgy eyeliner) and dares you to pass up on the opportunity to read his story inside. With that cover and a fair idea of what the book was about, I was pretty certain I was in for a fantastic few hours of reading. I mean, this had all of the makings of a book that I should have loved. A story set in the early 1900s. African-American siblings who were not destitute, but educated and successful. A heroine who's a nurse in 1908 and a foreign hero, arrogant and unwilling to take no for an answer. Strong and plucky, our heroine is someone who would keep our hero on his toes and make him work for her affections. Add in a journey to Africa and rich, descriptive writing - well, just gimme a comfy spot, a glass of wine and don't interrupt me I'm reading. Sigh. Unfortunately, Taken didn't earn the five star rating that I would like to give it. There were some parts that just didn't work for me. These problems aren't so bad that I hated the book or that I wouldn't recommend it, but they were annoying, eye-rolling and "yeah right!" inducing nonetheless.
An Idea of What It's About
Khalid Francois Duïs is a wealthy man who is in New York preparing to race in the Vanderbilt Cup. He's been invited to the home of his former roommate from Yale, Dr. Harry Bryant, whom he hasn't seen in years. Khalid is a chauvinist but in all fairness his beliefs are more than likely cultural, and again it is 1908. Unbeknownst to him, as he's spewing his views on women and the only purpose he believes they serve, Harry's sister Olivia overhears him. The two have never met, but the comments flowing out of his mouth are enough to make her instantly dislike him. Unfortunately, her body and hormones seem to be at odds with her brain and her reactions show that she likes him quite a bit. In fact, she can barely think properly once she actually lays eyes on the man. Khalid is also highly attracted to Olivia, almost mesmerized by her. He instantly knows that he wants to get her in his bed, despite her being his friend's sister. Unfortunately, he is rejected after sharing an intimate moment and making her an offer. Ego trampled he decides to take matters into his own hands. Despite his friendship with Harry, Khalid kidnaps Olivia so that he can have her until he's tired of her. A test of wills ensues, but emotions and acceptance eventually change both of their outlooks. But when doubt raises its ugly head decisions that greatly affect them both are made.
The Good
The book opens to Khalid playing a game of Russian roulette. He is empty, devoid of hope and the will to live. This is conveyed so eloquently that it immediately sucked me right in. What had happened to put him in such a state? What kind of seedy place was this? What a great way to start off a book! Later in the story, the author's description of the establishment where he is trying to end his life is vivid, as is the reactions of his two brothers. Their disgust and horror over the place and Khalild's actions are just wonderful. Khalid's downward spiral isn't something that he simply shook off either. I would have loved a bit more about his recovery, but I understand the size of the book only allowed so much of that. Still, I'm glad he wasn't a superman unfazed by the destructive path that he'd taken.
Another great feature of this story is the travel aspect and the obvious research that went into it. I also really liked Harry and Khalid's friendship. They bonded while in college where they were both outsiders in a predominately white, and I imagine prejudiced, university. Although they hadn't kept in touch, the affection was there.
The Bad
Okay, I didn't like Olivia's character. Her behavior was contradictory and she just didn't seem believable to me. To go into much detail would be to give too much away, but lets just say that Khalid must be working with some pretty powerful pheromones, cause Miss Olivia could barely control herself. One dinner near this man and girlfriend was exploring herself and ready to let him do a little exploration too! If you take into consideration that Olivia lived in 1908 then it really wasn't proper behavior (read the book and you'll get where I'm coming from here). I get the author wanted Olivia to be a modern woman, but I felt her modern behavior should have been consistent with the time period. She was too modern at times if that makes sense.
Khalid and Olivia in love? I guess I couldn't see it or understand how it happened. They eventually start sexing it up, and you know from the start that they have some seriously lustful feelings towards one another, but it felt like she just sort of succumbs. Once Olivia succumbs to his magnetism and both of their lust, he manages to miraculously shut off the chauvinism gene and he does a few considerate things. This in turn leads to a case of Stockholm Syndrome. Khalid on the other hand is just obsessed with her, yet it didn't come off as love. Maybe if there had been some great adventure after the kidnapping that made them really see each other and eventually fall in love, but nope - didn't happen that way.
My Final Thoughts:
Despite my complaints Taken isn't a terrible book. There are some very strong scenes that grab you and it is wonderfully researched. Perhaps I just expected too much of Taken because it didn't meet my expectations or hopes for it. I wish it felt more historical and that there had been an honest romance and a grand adventure. This won't be a problem for many, I'm sure, but it was a problem for me. Overall I didn't put the book down and I don't feel that it was a waste of my time. Despite not meeting its potential, I do recommend reading it for the imagery alone and for a few hours of light escape. Taken gets a 3 out of 5 rating from me.
For more reviews visit Romance Between the Covers
July 7, 2014
Olivia Bryant's an independant young lady just graduating from college with a plan. She doesn't see a marriage and family in her immedate future. She looking to accomplished some goals first. Working along side her brother Harry she set out to do just that. Only Olivia's plans halted by the one thing she vowed she didn't want and has avoided.
With one look at pair of green eyes have not only locked down her body,but Olivia's brain is no longer functioning correctly. Powerless to an unknown need forming in her bones, it's set to take over her soul. Leaving her completely breathless and running.
Khalid Francois Duis is a wealthy self-confidant, insensitive man with very healthy lusty appetite for the opposite sex, with a long list of escapades. One look at Oliva he thinks he's ready to add to that beded-list. Foreign-minded to american women ways, he's shocked and excited by Olivia's bite. Determined to have her at any cost. Khalid set's out to do the unthinkable, not realizing that what comes around goes around. It's also a long way down for Khalid, when he steps into the unknown...Love.
Taken by Koko Brown is my indroduction to her writing. The first three chapters didn't grab me and left me thinking WTH, but I kept right on. In the end I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of substance.
To me Taken is definatley worth the read. I was given a free copy for my Honest Review
With one look at pair of green eyes have not only locked down her body,but Olivia's brain is no longer functioning correctly. Powerless to an unknown need forming in her bones, it's set to take over her soul. Leaving her completely breathless and running.
Khalid Francois Duis is a wealthy self-confidant, insensitive man with very healthy lusty appetite for the opposite sex, with a long list of escapades. One look at Oliva he thinks he's ready to add to that beded-list. Foreign-minded to american women ways, he's shocked and excited by Olivia's bite. Determined to have her at any cost. Khalid set's out to do the unthinkable, not realizing that what comes around goes around. It's also a long way down for Khalid, when he steps into the unknown...Love.
Taken by Koko Brown is my indroduction to her writing. The first three chapters didn't grab me and left me thinking WTH, but I kept right on. In the end I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of substance.
To me Taken is definatley worth the read. I was given a free copy for my Honest Review
September 6, 2016
Cannot wait until July 7th!
June 28, 2014
3.5 Stolen Stars
Copy Provided by Author for Honest Review
I’m not really sure how I feel about Taken. I guess I thought I would like it more than I did. Khalid really is a man stuck in his ways. One look at Olivia and he has to have her, even with the obvious scorn and sexual tension she shoots his way. I did appreciate the slow buildup into a relationship, I just wish both these characters weren’t so thickheaded and knew how to communicate better.
A strong willed American woman and a privileged foreigner always spells trouble. In this case trouble doesn’t come close. Khalid whisks Olivia away from everything she knows including her brother/closest friend and her beloved job as a nurse. Obviously she is unhappy about the turn of events especially when she learns of her captors identity. Olivia wants nothing more than to escape Khalid and his island paradise in Africa and return back home. It’s up to Khalid to win her over, but as a man who does not woo but rather gets what he wants from a woman and moves on has a lot to learn about Olivia.
Again I hated how thickheaded these characters were. One minute you think everything is going well until the lingering doubts presented by another turns life upside down. I admired Olivia’s personal voice since even though she was hard-pressed to admit her attraction to Khalid himself she never once tried to lie to herself about her true feelings, which basically consisted of her wanting to rip off his tunic with her teeth. I also felt that Khalid was not as strong and determined as I once thought. After everything he goes through and his perseverance to obtain Olivia, I was disappointed in his decision and the forthcoming downfall he takes.
Overall this was a common story with an interesting twist. We’ve all read the common capture story mixed with Stockholm Syndrome but I didn’t get that feeling here. Khalid and Olivia have chemistry from the first moment their eyes meet. Though Khalid literally kidnaps Olivia she’s not mistreated in any dark ways. The setting made for some interesting details and the change of scenery made the book stand out. Even though I periodically disliked the characters I read the book in one sitting and was pleased in the end. If the blurb catches your attention, I highly suggest you take a chance to be Taken.
Copy Provided by Author for Honest Review
I’m not really sure how I feel about Taken. I guess I thought I would like it more than I did. Khalid really is a man stuck in his ways. One look at Olivia and he has to have her, even with the obvious scorn and sexual tension she shoots his way. I did appreciate the slow buildup into a relationship, I just wish both these characters weren’t so thickheaded and knew how to communicate better.
A strong willed American woman and a privileged foreigner always spells trouble. In this case trouble doesn’t come close. Khalid whisks Olivia away from everything she knows including her brother/closest friend and her beloved job as a nurse. Obviously she is unhappy about the turn of events especially when she learns of her captors identity. Olivia wants nothing more than to escape Khalid and his island paradise in Africa and return back home. It’s up to Khalid to win her over, but as a man who does not woo but rather gets what he wants from a woman and moves on has a lot to learn about Olivia.
Again I hated how thickheaded these characters were. One minute you think everything is going well until the lingering doubts presented by another turns life upside down. I admired Olivia’s personal voice since even though she was hard-pressed to admit her attraction to Khalid himself she never once tried to lie to herself about her true feelings, which basically consisted of her wanting to rip off his tunic with her teeth. I also felt that Khalid was not as strong and determined as I once thought. After everything he goes through and his perseverance to obtain Olivia, I was disappointed in his decision and the forthcoming downfall he takes.
Overall this was a common story with an interesting twist. We’ve all read the common capture story mixed with Stockholm Syndrome but I didn’t get that feeling here. Khalid and Olivia have chemistry from the first moment their eyes meet. Though Khalid literally kidnaps Olivia she’s not mistreated in any dark ways. The setting made for some interesting details and the change of scenery made the book stand out. Even though I periodically disliked the characters I read the book in one sitting and was pleased in the end. If the blurb catches your attention, I highly suggest you take a chance to be Taken.
July 11, 2014
I am not going to lie here when I started this book I was apprehensive. I was also uneasy about it. Especially when the kidnapping and imprisonment occurs. That just rubbed me wrong and got my hackles up. I was close to putting the book down and calling it a day because of how uneasy I was about that concept. I mean this supposed gorgeous man kidnaps his best friends sister so she can be his plaything because he can't get her out of his mind and when he hears she is going to visit a man after she turns him down he snaps and does that. That had me on guard. But I didn't I said put your big girl panties on girl and power through it and I am glad I did. That's not to say there weren't still parts that were unsettling because there were but the story and the tale that was weaved within these aspects was wonderful to see.
Olivia was a strong willed stubborn woman who had a mind of her own. She fought Khalid each step and garnered his respect as well. She went from hating to loathing to loving and this was disturbing to her because he was holding her captive. She loved when he showed her respect and was thoughtful with his gifts. When he saw her as more than someone to be in his bed but a individual. But she was afraid he didn't love her. His cousin Malik helped with this thought. Malik who was trying to get revenge for what happened to his love in the war. Malik who took away Khalid's reason and had him go down into the abyss that his family never thought they could get him out of. and it was a abyss of darkness. The opiate dens and not caring was the worst.
Khalid started wanting Olivia the moment he saw her and when she turned him down it made him want her more. What sealed her fate was the mentioning of Nathaniel. This had Khalid snap and suddenly she was in Africa. Trying everything he knew that worked in the past to seduce a woman left him wanton for she rejected him at every pass. Suddenly Khalid decided to listen and become something Olivia didn't expect. He began to see her as a person and not a object. As this occurred he garnered respect and love for her. Khalid got to where he didn't want to live without her. There were some disturbing moments like the condom that was like Olivia said unsanitary but I guess in that area of the world that was the best you could buy. The moments where they objectified themselves were not to great for me as well but the romantic moments and quiet tender interludes were wonderful.
When Olivia left with Malik's help she crushed Khalid and when I first began this book I would have cheered this on but when it came to that area and we saw a change in Khalid I felt horrible for him. He lost a part of himself that day and went into a downward spiral. His family had to help him pick up the pieces when he hit rock bottom. As he clawed back to being human again his love for Olivia never died.
He saw her again and more secrets were revealed. But more than that their love outshone everything and everyone.
A story of love that grows from hatred. Of learning to respect woman and not objectify them and of unconditional love that you will be amazed at how far these two come and how far you will grow from hating Khalid to rooting for him.
October 10, 2014
I'm a bit torn on this one. The basic plot was solid, but there were times where this historical romance felt very much like a contemporary story. The dialogue, references to a cold shower, and editing hiccups all kept giving me little jolts that would take me out of the referenced time period. I have a hard time believing that a woman of Olivia's stature in the early 1900's would have allowed Khalid the access to her body that he had on the very first night of them meeting. Olivia is a young, freshly educated, middle class black woman living under the protection and care of her older brother and it was hard for me to swallow that initial scene. Maybe if she had been married before and had sexual experience before meeting Khalid it would have been a bit more believable. I have no problem with lust at first sight and instant attraction, especially in a contemporary romance. However, immediate physical contact is a bit harder to accept in a historical romance, especially when it goes as far as this scene did. Yes, I realize that this is fiction therefore pure fantasy, but it just didn't feel "right" to me.
The characters of Olivia and Khalid were well developed and played well off of each other, but there was always the feeling of the story not fitting in with the era in which it was set. I can't quite articulate what was so off for me, there were several little things that added up to the overall disconnect. If this had been set now, or even in the 1950's the story would probably have felt better for me. This was not a complete miss for me it just wasn't a home run either. Koko Brown is undoubtedly a talented writer and I will be reading more from her down the line.
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
The characters of Olivia and Khalid were well developed and played well off of each other, but there was always the feeling of the story not fitting in with the era in which it was set. I can't quite articulate what was so off for me, there were several little things that added up to the overall disconnect. If this had been set now, or even in the 1950's the story would probably have felt better for me. This was not a complete miss for me it just wasn't a home run either. Koko Brown is undoubtedly a talented writer and I will be reading more from her down the line.
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
December 27, 2015
Merde....
is the only French word people seemed to know in this book. Since it is my favorite French word, I'll give Ms. Koko a pass. This story is pretty much full of jerks and none of the characters are truly likable, but they aren't awful either. Kahlid is a sexy jerk and Olivia is strong yet wishy-washy. The constant back and forth started working my nerves and I lost interest. But there is something to the story, and I love alternative universe historical romance. I'd say read with caution and know there's a modern twist. If that's not your thing then stay away.
is the only French word people seemed to know in this book. Since it is my favorite French word, I'll give Ms. Koko a pass. This story is pretty much full of jerks and none of the characters are truly likable, but they aren't awful either. Kahlid is a sexy jerk and Olivia is strong yet wishy-washy. The constant back and forth started working my nerves and I lost interest. But there is something to the story, and I love alternative universe historical romance. I'd say read with caution and know there's a modern twist. If that's not your thing then stay away.
July 12, 2014
Genre: Erotic historical (I guess)
Setting: NYC and Sahara desert, early 1900s
About a 2.5, okay but nothing special and I got bored halfway thru. Probably the 7100th The Sheik knock-off I have read.
Setting: NYC and Sahara desert, early 1900s
About a 2.5, okay but nothing special and I got bored halfway thru. Probably the 7100th The Sheik knock-off I have read.
July 6, 2014
I was given an ARC of this book for an honest review. I will first off say that I love abduction stories, add a sheikh/bedouin and I'm already there salivating. Can I just say that this book starts off with a punch that I wasn't expecting. I mean can you say, Deer Hunter?!
I immediately felt the sparks from this couple from the moment they laid eyes on each other, even when Olivia 'doth protest too much'.
And yes, I liked Khalid more than Olivia. He was arrogant, stubborn, and s pig-headed chauvinist.
But that's what makes him sexy. His character comes full circle and its funny to see how he gets turned on every time Olivia talks 'medical'. And yet he's very human at the same time which we see from his downfall after he loses her.
Ms. Brown does a great job of world building. Of course, not too surprised she captivated with her 1930s post-prohibition setting in Jezebel. Here she captures the exotic locales with equal affect. From NYC to the coast of Africa and even an opium den in Paris where underground Russian Roulette games were held in secrecy I felt swept away.
Yes, this was very much an erotic novel but there was a good story interlaced in there to keep me riding along. Taken is a ride with some twists I wasn't expecting.
All in all a great read with a touch of bodice ripper thrown in but none of that consensual rape stuff.
I immediately felt the sparks from this couple from the moment they laid eyes on each other, even when Olivia 'doth protest too much'.
And yes, I liked Khalid more than Olivia. He was arrogant, stubborn, and s pig-headed chauvinist.
But that's what makes him sexy. His character comes full circle and its funny to see how he gets turned on every time Olivia talks 'medical'. And yet he's very human at the same time which we see from his downfall after he loses her.
Ms. Brown does a great job of world building. Of course, not too surprised she captivated with her 1930s post-prohibition setting in Jezebel. Here she captures the exotic locales with equal affect. From NYC to the coast of Africa and even an opium den in Paris where underground Russian Roulette games were held in secrecy I felt swept away.
Yes, this was very much an erotic novel but there was a good story interlaced in there to keep me riding along. Taken is a ride with some twists I wasn't expecting.
All in all a great read with a touch of bodice ripper thrown in but none of that consensual rape stuff.
August 4, 2014
Khalid and Olivia meet for the very first time and they have an immediate attraction to each other. While Olivia being a women of principle tries to fight the attraction and Khalid being a person who is used to having women fall at his feet at his mere presence, can't understands the rejection from Olivia. Khalid not used to "NO" especially from the persons of the opposite sex, throws all caution to the winds to have what he wants.
I enjoy the versatility of the different cultures and ethnic backgrounds. It added a spice to my normal reading. Was a little hesitant at the spin the kidnapping would be, but Koko Brown produced a home runner. The intimate scenes was GREAT a bonus! Looking forward to more about this circle of friends and family. Great read, check it out!
I enjoy the versatility of the different cultures and ethnic backgrounds. It added a spice to my normal reading. Was a little hesitant at the spin the kidnapping would be, but Koko Brown produced a home runner. The intimate scenes was GREAT a bonus! Looking forward to more about this circle of friends and family. Great read, check it out!
July 9, 2014
This was my first book by Koko Brown and I must admit it was a 6 star for me it was well written awesome characters, Strong female lead...I will be reading more book written by Mrs. Brown!!!
December 19, 2014
2.5 stars
**Received book in exchange for an honest review**
I had seen the cover art for "Taken" around social media for a little bit and was intrigued. I couldn't tell if it were a male or female, and the Arab garb definitely piqued my interest. I tell you, I was hungry for a new story. A new world.
*sigh*
"Taken" has a promising start, but quickly becomes a series of disjointed narrations focusing mostly on Olivia Bryant, a newly-minted college graduate with a degree in nursing whose sole goal is to work alongside her physician brother, and her battle with Stockholm Syndrome.
There's no real markers to identify "Taken" as a historical romance except for the tag in the opening chapter. Now, I'm a history buff, so I picked up right away that this was set in the late 1800s or early 1900s. The language used in the narration and the way Olivia is treated were tell-tale signs of this being a story of days gone by.
It is obvious that Ms. Brown did her research...almost too well.
There were some points where it was a brief history lesson, which pulled me away from the story and didn't add to the scene. I found the narration teetered back and forth, particularly early in the book with being more contemporary than appropriate and a bit more formal than necessary. The dialogue also swayed from one end of the spectrum to another. These are well-educated people of means in 1908. Their speech went from common and contemporary to stuffy and formal from one exchange to the next.
Almost immediately, Olivia is pleasuring herself, or at least contemplating it. Even after finishing the book, I still don't quite know what to make of Olivia. When her brother's best friend from college shows up, despite overhearing his chauvinistic talk, Olivia allows him to more or less have his way with her after proposing marriage almost upon meeting her. Now, I get that cultures handle affairs of the heart differently, but insta-love is hard to buy, even in this scenario. It was completely obvious that this was coming, because Olivia had just gruffly rejected a potential beau at her graduation. Naturally, she'd fall for the next guy who would of course be more garish than the last.
Unfortunately, "Taken" is filled with stock characters whom I never truly invested in. What I did enjoy was the setting. I felt the voyage and the desert nomads were done well. The supporting cast added richly to the storyline.
Some stories are character driven and others are plot driven. "Taken" is very much plot driven. Anyone could be slid into these scenarios. There's not a lot that makes Olivia and Khalid unique. I wasn't rooting for their happy ever after; I wasn't cheering for them either way. Although, their time in the desert was more intimate and engaging, that was only true when they were by themselves or with other people. Together, they were just one sexual encounter after another.
During said encounters, there was no real diversity in the word choice or actions. Sure, there are only so many ways to make love and describe it...maybe some of the many, many, many times they were aroused and eventually followed through could have faded to black or handled more tenderly than 'mushroom heads' and 'wetness'.
I preferred Olivia when she wasn't anywhere near Khalid. She was proficient in her skill, although still one-dimensional. The way the supporting cast responded to her made her likeable. The way the supporting cast interacted with Khalid made him more appealing as well. But when the two came together, it was a flat note.
Malik, Khalid's cousin, fashions a way for Olivia to escape, but she's torn up because she's in love, or in really, really deep lust with Khalid after being held hostage by him for three months. And Khalid is way past being in love. They end up playing house, and it's kinda-sorta believable...if I cared about them.
After Olivia escapes, Khalid falls into a depressive drug binge and miraculously recovers in a matter of weeks. The last third of the book went extremely fast, glossing over their time apart and ultimate reunion. Romance has certain tropes, and "Taken" is filled with them. In the end, everything wraps up tidy and all is forgiven, and they live happily ever after.
I wished there was more to love than "Taken's" setting.
**Received book in exchange for an honest review**
I had seen the cover art for "Taken" around social media for a little bit and was intrigued. I couldn't tell if it were a male or female, and the Arab garb definitely piqued my interest. I tell you, I was hungry for a new story. A new world.
*sigh*
"Taken" has a promising start, but quickly becomes a series of disjointed narrations focusing mostly on Olivia Bryant, a newly-minted college graduate with a degree in nursing whose sole goal is to work alongside her physician brother, and her battle with Stockholm Syndrome.
There's no real markers to identify "Taken" as a historical romance except for the tag in the opening chapter. Now, I'm a history buff, so I picked up right away that this was set in the late 1800s or early 1900s. The language used in the narration and the way Olivia is treated were tell-tale signs of this being a story of days gone by.
It is obvious that Ms. Brown did her research...almost too well.
There were some points where it was a brief history lesson, which pulled me away from the story and didn't add to the scene. I found the narration teetered back and forth, particularly early in the book with being more contemporary than appropriate and a bit more formal than necessary. The dialogue also swayed from one end of the spectrum to another. These are well-educated people of means in 1908. Their speech went from common and contemporary to stuffy and formal from one exchange to the next.
Almost immediately, Olivia is pleasuring herself, or at least contemplating it. Even after finishing the book, I still don't quite know what to make of Olivia. When her brother's best friend from college shows up, despite overhearing his chauvinistic talk, Olivia allows him to more or less have his way with her after proposing marriage almost upon meeting her. Now, I get that cultures handle affairs of the heart differently, but insta-love is hard to buy, even in this scenario. It was completely obvious that this was coming, because Olivia had just gruffly rejected a potential beau at her graduation. Naturally, she'd fall for the next guy who would of course be more garish than the last.
Unfortunately, "Taken" is filled with stock characters whom I never truly invested in. What I did enjoy was the setting. I felt the voyage and the desert nomads were done well. The supporting cast added richly to the storyline.
Some stories are character driven and others are plot driven. "Taken" is very much plot driven. Anyone could be slid into these scenarios. There's not a lot that makes Olivia and Khalid unique. I wasn't rooting for their happy ever after; I wasn't cheering for them either way. Although, their time in the desert was more intimate and engaging, that was only true when they were by themselves or with other people. Together, they were just one sexual encounter after another.
During said encounters, there was no real diversity in the word choice or actions. Sure, there are only so many ways to make love and describe it...maybe some of the many, many, many times they were aroused and eventually followed through could have faded to black or handled more tenderly than 'mushroom heads' and 'wetness'.
I preferred Olivia when she wasn't anywhere near Khalid. She was proficient in her skill, although still one-dimensional. The way the supporting cast responded to her made her likeable. The way the supporting cast interacted with Khalid made him more appealing as well. But when the two came together, it was a flat note.
Malik, Khalid's cousin, fashions a way for Olivia to escape, but she's torn up because she's in love, or in really, really deep lust with Khalid after being held hostage by him for three months. And Khalid is way past being in love. They end up playing house, and it's kinda-sorta believable...if I cared about them.
After Olivia escapes, Khalid falls into a depressive drug binge and miraculously recovers in a matter of weeks. The last third of the book went extremely fast, glossing over their time apart and ultimate reunion. Romance has certain tropes, and "Taken" is filled with them. In the end, everything wraps up tidy and all is forgiven, and they live happily ever after.
I wished there was more to love than "Taken's" setting.
August 2, 2014
What an amazing story by Author Koko Brown.
One of the things I have learned from reading books by such amazing authors is the ability to tell a story with such detail and emotion. So up uh so you find yourself becoming a part of the actual story. That is a true testament of an excellent story teller.
This story is set in the early 1900's which I found to be quite interesting.
Khalid Francois Duis is a Worley young man with a lot of money, a dual heritage and a penchant for getting what he wants and whatever he wants. He has two brothers, both parents are still alive nut have been separated for years. Khalid was educated on American soil at Yale University, his best friend from college is Dr. Harry Bryant they were roommates.
Olivia Bryant the younger sister to Harry and a nurse, she works side by side at her brother's medical practice. Harry raised Olivia after losing both parents, the mother through childbirth and the father from tuberculosis. These two are very close, so when Harry invited Khalid over for dinner (which in the past Khalid would promise to come over but then not show it) he didn't endear himself to Olivia, in fact she couldn't stand him lol!! When Khalid finally does make it over there and Olivia comes face to face with him a world of emotions erupts between the two so much so that Khalid becomes so obsessed with Olivia, he takes it upon himself and has her kidnapped and taken to Africa where his mother is from. A continent away and from there a battle ensues between two people from different cultures and different races.
What starts out as an almost psychotic obsession turns into two people growing to learn about one another, through misunderstandings, laughter, obsessions, fights, battle of wills into eventually an unspoken love not uttered by the other. As with anything comes missteps, rejection, grief, loneliness, acceptance and understanding. As things begin to turn around between Khalid and Olivia, someone comes in with a plan of their own and sets into motion a series of steps that ends with a separation of being pulled continents apart once again.
Thus a very painful and ugly downward spiral takes place for both Olivia and Khalid
Can these two find their way back to one another? Can common ground be met? What secrets will be revealed? Can there be forgiveness on both ends?
We also get to meet Khalid's brothers Aksim and Izil and their father Francois. I am wondering if author Koko Brown will write a story about the younger brother Izil and will the father be reunited back with their mother?
Wonderful story and I highly encourage you to read it because you won't be disappointed.
Well Until My Next Review Ciao Bellas!
One of the things I have learned from reading books by such amazing authors is the ability to tell a story with such detail and emotion. So up uh so you find yourself becoming a part of the actual story. That is a true testament of an excellent story teller.
This story is set in the early 1900's which I found to be quite interesting.
Khalid Francois Duis is a Worley young man with a lot of money, a dual heritage and a penchant for getting what he wants and whatever he wants. He has two brothers, both parents are still alive nut have been separated for years. Khalid was educated on American soil at Yale University, his best friend from college is Dr. Harry Bryant they were roommates.
Olivia Bryant the younger sister to Harry and a nurse, she works side by side at her brother's medical practice. Harry raised Olivia after losing both parents, the mother through childbirth and the father from tuberculosis. These two are very close, so when Harry invited Khalid over for dinner (which in the past Khalid would promise to come over but then not show it) he didn't endear himself to Olivia, in fact she couldn't stand him lol!! When Khalid finally does make it over there and Olivia comes face to face with him a world of emotions erupts between the two so much so that Khalid becomes so obsessed with Olivia, he takes it upon himself and has her kidnapped and taken to Africa where his mother is from. A continent away and from there a battle ensues between two people from different cultures and different races.
What starts out as an almost psychotic obsession turns into two people growing to learn about one another, through misunderstandings, laughter, obsessions, fights, battle of wills into eventually an unspoken love not uttered by the other. As with anything comes missteps, rejection, grief, loneliness, acceptance and understanding. As things begin to turn around between Khalid and Olivia, someone comes in with a plan of their own and sets into motion a series of steps that ends with a separation of being pulled continents apart once again.
Thus a very painful and ugly downward spiral takes place for both Olivia and Khalid
Can these two find their way back to one another? Can common ground be met? What secrets will be revealed? Can there be forgiveness on both ends?
We also get to meet Khalid's brothers Aksim and Izil and their father Francois. I am wondering if author Koko Brown will write a story about the younger brother Izil and will the father be reunited back with their mother?
Wonderful story and I highly encourage you to read it because you won't be disappointed.
Well Until My Next Review Ciao Bellas!
August 24, 2014
The synopsis of the story had me hooked. The H was incredibly possessive and obsessive of the h. The h was the character I did not like. At first she is angry about being kidnapped but she quickly makes a nympho; giving the H her virginity as if it was nothing and never thinks about it again. I didn't understand how she could be so happy sleeping with the H nonstop without a care about her old life including her brother. Then all of sudden after months of throwing caution to the wind when the H gifts her with a place to practice medicine she becomes upset about her situation. The H is raised in London but his tribe didn't have anyone who knows anything about medicine. That didn't make any sense. All of a sudden the h is in demand bc no one knows how to take care of sickness or injury. I loved that we got a glimpse of the H in the beginning being suicidal from losing the h and then going back and seeing how he got like that. I wish more authors would make their heroes suffer without the h. Too many times we see the h who is heartbroken and can't move on after losing the H. I mostly enjoyed everything until the H meets the h again. This is when the story fell apart and became a HP book. Instead of continuing his obsession for the h, he attends her engagement and is about to leave when he discovers that the h had his baby. Yeah, the secret baby story line. Once the H realizes he has a kid, he wants to be in the child's life. It was no longer about being with the h but the baby. I don't like these story lines bc it makes the relationship boil down to the H wanting to be with the h bc of the baby. The H was ready to let the h go until he discovered his child. I wished the H continued to be consumed by his obsession with the h but gain later he is ready to leave them both. I didn't like the way the h treated Nathan. She seemed to not care about anyone but herself. She was a selfish brat who got away with too much bc her brother spoiled her. Anyway, I'm still glad I read this story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2014
Book gifted from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Cover :- 4 stars
Sex/steaminess :- 4 stars
Story line :- 2 stars
Characters :- 2 stars
Overall rating :- 3 stars
Personal rating :- 3 stars
Book Pairing:- M/F
Did it give me a book hangover :- No
Is this a review book or personal read :- Review read
Why I chose this book?
I got the chance to join the blog tour
What I liked about this book.
* Some of the scenes were good.
* The writing was good.
What I didn't like about this book.
* I found the story hard to read, disagreeing with a lot of what was there.
* I couldn't connect to the characters at all.
Would I read more from this author?
Yes
Would I recommend this book?
Not really, I guess some people will like but no-one I really know.
Cover :- 4 stars
Sex/steaminess :- 4 stars
Story line :- 2 stars
Characters :- 2 stars
Overall rating :- 3 stars
Personal rating :- 3 stars
Book Pairing:- M/F
Did it give me a book hangover :- No
Is this a review book or personal read :- Review read
Why I chose this book?
I got the chance to join the blog tour
What I liked about this book.
* Some of the scenes were good.
* The writing was good.
What I didn't like about this book.
* I found the story hard to read, disagreeing with a lot of what was there.
* I couldn't connect to the characters at all.
Would I read more from this author?
Yes
Would I recommend this book?
Not really, I guess some people will like but no-one I really know.
August 9, 2015
Excellent Book! After visiting many middle eastern countries, I was happy to see the Author's description were on point. I loved the romantic chemistry between the main characters and the arrogance of the male was strangely enjoyable. Kept me turning the pages and engaged.
July 1, 2014
I had a bit of trouble here to be honest. Not for me
skimmed
April 14, 2015Like a poor man's "Captive Bride." I'd rather read Johanna Lindsey's.
July 28, 2022
He took her and then they took each other!
Khalid and Olivia had an encounter the first time they met which saw Khalid proposing marriage to Olivia that she refused. Olivia feeling out of her depth with Khalid as a guest in her and her brother's home decided to take off to visit a friend. Enroute she was waylaid by Khalid's manservant who took her away to the desert of Africa. It took a while but Olivia knowing she was in love with Khalid, became his lover and he then fell in love with her. The jealousy and revenge of a family member who lost the love of his life during a tribal war lied to Olivia to get her to leave Khalid, then lied to Khalid too basking in the fact he had taken revenge on Khalid's for what happened in a war caused by another family member. Fast forward eight months, a dark trip into self destruction by Khalid, a child by Olivia he knew nothing about, an almost marriage to a man she did not love by Olivia to being jailed by her brother to finally allowing Khalid and Olivia to be able to share a life together with their children. This story was riveting, insightful into that ethnic group's culture to a really satisfying ending.
Khalid and Olivia had an encounter the first time they met which saw Khalid proposing marriage to Olivia that she refused. Olivia feeling out of her depth with Khalid as a guest in her and her brother's home decided to take off to visit a friend. Enroute she was waylaid by Khalid's manservant who took her away to the desert of Africa. It took a while but Olivia knowing she was in love with Khalid, became his lover and he then fell in love with her. The jealousy and revenge of a family member who lost the love of his life during a tribal war lied to Olivia to get her to leave Khalid, then lied to Khalid too basking in the fact he had taken revenge on Khalid's for what happened in a war caused by another family member. Fast forward eight months, a dark trip into self destruction by Khalid, a child by Olivia he knew nothing about, an almost marriage to a man she did not love by Olivia to being jailed by her brother to finally allowing Khalid and Olivia to be able to share a life together with their children. This story was riveting, insightful into that ethnic group's culture to a really satisfying ending.
September 9, 2020
Desert Adventure
Enjoyed Khalid and Olivia, their relationship was very stormy. They definitely had cultural differences. I had never heard of the Tuareg Tribe, so I Goggled them. Fascinating people which explained why Khalid felt he was entitled to "take" Olivia. People believed in the rhythm method in the 1900's, so I suspected she was pregnant when she left Khalid. Once again lack of communication caused two people unnecessary pain. He was too prideful and she was too stubborn. Of course, being held captive in the desert by a TDH man with green eyes who can't keep his hands off you is a dream come true. Loved the epilog with HEA and two children.
Enjoyed Khalid and Olivia, their relationship was very stormy. They definitely had cultural differences. I had never heard of the Tuareg Tribe, so I Goggled them. Fascinating people which explained why Khalid felt he was entitled to "take" Olivia. People believed in the rhythm method in the 1900's, so I suspected she was pregnant when she left Khalid. Once again lack of communication caused two people unnecessary pain. He was too prideful and she was too stubborn. Of course, being held captive in the desert by a TDH man with green eyes who can't keep his hands off you is a dream come true. Loved the epilog with HEA and two children.
April 1, 2018
2.5 stars. I didn't hate this book, but it also really didn't grab me either. I honestly kept forgetting this was supposed to be a historical romance novel, since it seemed far too modern to me. Other than the intro, stating the year, nothing about this screamed that this book took place in a bygone era. It seemed like it could have taken place yesterday. Neither of the main characters made much of an impression on me either.
July 17, 2018
Awesome read!
Couldn't put it down, it was hot. It was a book I would read again and again. Two thumbs up!
Couldn't put it down, it was hot. It was a book I would read again and again. Two thumbs up!
August 19, 2020
i liked it! would really love the brothers books now!!!
December 23, 2020
This books was one of my guilty pleasures. I think I enjoyed it a little too much.
July 22, 2022
captivating story
This story is scorching hot! Wasn’t sure what direction it was going in after the kidnapping but it kept your attention. You keep reading until the end.
This story is scorching hot! Wasn’t sure what direction it was going in after the kidnapping but it kept your attention. You keep reading until the end.
May 2, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
Taken is the first book that I have ever read by Koko Brown, and I had absolutely no idea what to expect with this one. I was drawn in from the blurb because this one sounded so unique and completely different from anything I have read before. It definitely was unlike any other book I have read, and I honestly am not quite sure what to think after having finished. On one hand I liked parts of the story, and yet I am still having a tough time with the relationship between the hero and heroine because of how everything happened. This one will not be for everyone, but I think that if you are looking for something different it is definitely worth a shot.
When Khalid Francois Duis meets his former college roommate's little sister, he is immediately drawn to her. He is used to having any woman he wants for however long he wants her. But Olivia Bryant is the first to tell him no. He refuses to give up though and continues to pursue her. When Khalid and Olivia share a passionate moment, he asks her to marry him. She turns him down and immediately plans a trip out of town to avoid him. But Khalid refuses to let her go and his obsession with her is enough that he kidnaps her to keep her with him. Khalid takes Olivia to Africa to become his and be a slave to his every desire. Khalid sets out to seduce her and make her see that he can give her the world. But will it be enough to convince Olivia to stay with him? Or will Olivia continue to search for a way to escape and return to her life before Khalid?
I both liked and disliked Khalid. He went about everything the wrong way, and he was completely obsessed with Olivia. But yet, she also had the exact same feelings as he did and she didn't fight him too hard on anything. I just didn't really know what to think, because while Khalid and Olivia shouldn't have worked they did. He was always thinking of her and trying to provide nice things for her. He treated her well and even came to admire everything about her that at first he couldn't stand. He really got to see her as a person and not just a woman who told him no. Olivia confused me as well because she kept turning him down and denying her feelings and yet she was upset that he didn't declare his love or include her in his picture of the future. These two really just needed to speak to one another and I wanted to smack them both at times. They had a ton of chemistry though and when they weren't fighting things between them they worked really well together.
I wasn't aware at first that this book was set in the early 1900s, so that was a bit of shock for me. But I thought that the author did a good job of bringing that to life and making it real. I did think that certain words or phrases weren't always accurate though, and seemed to be a bit too modern. But then other times things were spot on. I found it a bit strange and a bit distracting from the story. I would have to stop and think about whether that should have been said or done back in that time period. Overall, this one was an interesting and different read and I can honestly say I have never read anything like it before. I am still thinking about it and that tells me a lot right there. I think that this one is worth the shot if you are looking for something out of the ordinary with a twist on romance. This one had a pretty predictable outcome and wasn't anything new there, but the story itself was what made this one unique. I will definitely look for more from Koko Brown in the future.
**ARC Provided by Good Choice Reading**
Taken is the first book that I have ever read by Koko Brown, and I had absolutely no idea what to expect with this one. I was drawn in from the blurb because this one sounded so unique and completely different from anything I have read before. It definitely was unlike any other book I have read, and I honestly am not quite sure what to think after having finished. On one hand I liked parts of the story, and yet I am still having a tough time with the relationship between the hero and heroine because of how everything happened. This one will not be for everyone, but I think that if you are looking for something different it is definitely worth a shot.
When Khalid Francois Duis meets his former college roommate's little sister, he is immediately drawn to her. He is used to having any woman he wants for however long he wants her. But Olivia Bryant is the first to tell him no. He refuses to give up though and continues to pursue her. When Khalid and Olivia share a passionate moment, he asks her to marry him. She turns him down and immediately plans a trip out of town to avoid him. But Khalid refuses to let her go and his obsession with her is enough that he kidnaps her to keep her with him. Khalid takes Olivia to Africa to become his and be a slave to his every desire. Khalid sets out to seduce her and make her see that he can give her the world. But will it be enough to convince Olivia to stay with him? Or will Olivia continue to search for a way to escape and return to her life before Khalid?
I both liked and disliked Khalid. He went about everything the wrong way, and he was completely obsessed with Olivia. But yet, she also had the exact same feelings as he did and she didn't fight him too hard on anything. I just didn't really know what to think, because while Khalid and Olivia shouldn't have worked they did. He was always thinking of her and trying to provide nice things for her. He treated her well and even came to admire everything about her that at first he couldn't stand. He really got to see her as a person and not just a woman who told him no. Olivia confused me as well because she kept turning him down and denying her feelings and yet she was upset that he didn't declare his love or include her in his picture of the future. These two really just needed to speak to one another and I wanted to smack them both at times. They had a ton of chemistry though and when they weren't fighting things between them they worked really well together.
I wasn't aware at first that this book was set in the early 1900s, so that was a bit of shock for me. But I thought that the author did a good job of bringing that to life and making it real. I did think that certain words or phrases weren't always accurate though, and seemed to be a bit too modern. But then other times things were spot on. I found it a bit strange and a bit distracting from the story. I would have to stop and think about whether that should have been said or done back in that time period. Overall, this one was an interesting and different read and I can honestly say I have never read anything like it before. I am still thinking about it and that tells me a lot right there. I think that this one is worth the shot if you are looking for something out of the ordinary with a twist on romance. This one had a pretty predictable outcome and wasn't anything new there, but the story itself was what made this one unique. I will definitely look for more from Koko Brown in the future.
**ARC Provided by Good Choice Reading**
August 2, 2014
As with any story, the plot, setting, and characters are the backbone; without a specific synergy between these facets, a potentially phenomenal story could spiral out of control quickly. If even one of those facets is missing or under developed, the story suffers, leaving the reader to wonder just what happened.
This is the case with Taken.
I was thoroughly intrigued by the premise of Taken, so much so that initially, I started with a sort of simmering excitement, believing that I would be thrust into a visceral, romantic adventure. I was ready to invest in Olivia and Khalid, ready to take that journey toward love with them but then… they met each other. And despite the passionate embers that smoldered between them, the more they interacted with each other, the more I began to question if I cared enough about following them on their path. Olivia begins the story as a strong willed, educated, self- aware woman, determined to break the mold. The moment she meets Khalid, a self-proclaimed cad who delights loving and leaving women when they get too clingy, all of that determination and strength seems to dissipate. I take issue with using sex as a tool to debase and weaken a character. The sex, although titillating enough, was profuse, often eclipsing the growth of the story; there was no forward momentum because scene after scene was nothing more than Khalid ravaging Olivia or Olivia darting between loving Khalid and despising him or her self-depreciating thoughts. Olivia was marginalized, defined only by her rising libido rather than her logic, intelligence, and character. Her indecisiveness was cumbersome and distractive and her willingness to fall into Khalid’s arms even after knowing that he merely wanted to possess her was somewhat annoying. Khalid was equally one dimensional; his chauvinistic ideals and singular obsession was disturbing and although he was described as “beautiful” and “handsome” I found that I wasn’t the least bit interested in him- that is until he took a downward spiral and was humbled. By then, I’d lost interest in Olivia and Khalid as a couple. It isn’t until they part ways that the story begins to find its depth with Khalid fighting to resurface from the brink of destruction and Olivia moving on with her life. By then, however, it’s too little too late.
That isn’t to say that this story is lacking everywhere else. Ms. Brown did a phenomenal job in describing the different locales that I did feel as if I were there in the heat of the desert or in the thick of city life. She did, however, stumble a bit on capturing the flavor of the period. The prose and the dialogue, although generally free of errors, flitted between contemporary and the past so much that I never felt like it was an authentic experience.
Taken was a decent read and intriguing enough for me to consider reading more of Ms. Brown’s work in the future. I just wished that the characters were developed past the insatiable passion and given more depth.
September 20, 2014
What happens when obsession becomes too much? Khalid is mesmerized by Olivia the sister of his college roommate, Harry, as soon as he lays eyes on her. Olivia feels the same, but denies it. On the first day they meet the two share a passionate moment and Khalid even goes as far as proposing to Olivia yet she rejects him and decides to take a short trip when Khalid ends up staying at her house. Khalid doesn't like that so he has her kidnapped, I know drastic much, and brought to Africa where his mothers tribe live as nomads in the Sahara desert. Olivia tries her hardest to resist Khalid, but he brings her gifts and charms his way through her defenses. The tension between the two finally breaks when Khalid makes a deal with Olivia allowing her to help with a birth if she gives him one night and she agrees. Afterwards, Khalid realizes one night isn't enough and he wants more. The two grow closer and begin to understand each other but how they were brought together still hangs in the shadows. Using this reason and Khalid's playboy history, Malik, Khalid's cousin, convinces Olivia to take a ship that's heading to America. Upon discovering Olivia's absence, Khalid is devastated and his life heads in a tailspin filled with alcohol, drugs, and Russian roulette. Meanwhile, Olivia is back in New York with her brother who insists on knowing who her kidnapper was and knowing it would hurt him to know it was his friend, Olivia decides to keep that information to herself. Khalid does make a recovery with the help of his family and moves on with his life, racing for his families company. One such race took place in New York where he runs into Harry receiving news of Olivia's engagement party which he decides to attend. Olivia and Khalid meet at the party where drama ensues and tensions get high. Harry deduces that Khalid kidnapped Olivia, Khalid finds out he has a daughter named Karin, and Olivia admits to herself she doesn't love her fiancé and is still in love with Khalid. Through a break-up, an arrest, and much a needed conversation, Olivia and Khalid admit their love for each other, get married, and have their happily ever after. A good ending all an all, well except for Olivia's poor pitiful fiancé. >_<
July 8, 2014
I received an ARC of Taken for an honest review.
Let me say, from the first time I saw Miss Brown’s cover, I was intrigued. The eyes of her hero captivated me.
I am a lover of romance novels, specifically historical romance novels, and yes, even the “tacky” bodice ripper novels. As a teen, I was enthralled by the worlds created by Johanna Lindsey, Iris Johansen and Susan Johnson. So, opening up Taken was a treat for me.
Things I loved: the book’s setting – it’s clear Miss Brown conducted extensive research to give readers an authentic feel regarding Khalid’s culture; the book is error free and the childhood nostalgia her words rekindled kept me turning the pages.
Things that gave me a pause: the formality of speech – I am aware this is a historical novel but sometimes the conversations between the hero and heroine felt stiff and in need of contraction usage every now and again; the use of modern terms/phrases made the book feel contemporary which created a bit of time inconsistency and the sameness (feelings, words used, etc.) in the various sex scenes which at times I felt could have worked better with the fade-to-black technique.
Additionally, while this is Miss Brown’s book and she has the right to write her characters as she pleases, as a reader the journey the hero embarks upon after an emotional story arc did not resonate with me. In my opinion, the hero’s action (nearing the end) did not match to hero I met at the beginning.
Overall, this book was enjoyable and I read it in one sitting. I like Miss Brown’s attention to detail, writing style and her creative plot lines—all three will make it easy for me to recommend and support any of this author’s future ventures.
Let me say, from the first time I saw Miss Brown’s cover, I was intrigued. The eyes of her hero captivated me.
I am a lover of romance novels, specifically historical romance novels, and yes, even the “tacky” bodice ripper novels. As a teen, I was enthralled by the worlds created by Johanna Lindsey, Iris Johansen and Susan Johnson. So, opening up Taken was a treat for me.
Things I loved: the book’s setting – it’s clear Miss Brown conducted extensive research to give readers an authentic feel regarding Khalid’s culture; the book is error free and the childhood nostalgia her words rekindled kept me turning the pages.
Things that gave me a pause: the formality of speech – I am aware this is a historical novel but sometimes the conversations between the hero and heroine felt stiff and in need of contraction usage every now and again; the use of modern terms/phrases made the book feel contemporary which created a bit of time inconsistency and the sameness (feelings, words used, etc.) in the various sex scenes which at times I felt could have worked better with the fade-to-black technique.
Additionally, while this is Miss Brown’s book and she has the right to write her characters as she pleases, as a reader the journey the hero embarks upon after an emotional story arc did not resonate with me. In my opinion, the hero’s action (nearing the end) did not match to hero I met at the beginning.
Overall, this book was enjoyable and I read it in one sitting. I like Miss Brown’s attention to detail, writing style and her creative plot lines—all three will make it easy for me to recommend and support any of this author’s future ventures.
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