Sorry to whoever wrote the scripts for the fairytales I grew up watching in movies as a kid, but, bro, you got it all wrong.
Fabulous floor-length gowns and fairy godmothers don't appear out of nowhere, promising to fix your problems when you're at your lowest, crying on a bench in a torn dress. Random animals have never cleaned anything I've ever owned, and though I would bend over backward to have a pet dragon that breathes fire, the best I can hope for is a small-bearded dragon...and they can't fly.
Knights in shining armor can be real, but they don't just appear out of nowhere, either. They don't ride in on a white horse, reaching a gloved hand down, so they can whisk you away into the sunset. They drive up on Harleys, hand you a helmet, and f--k your world up in the best way possible.
Too bad I had to go through a certified villain before I learned this...before I finally woke up to reality.
Wake is the first book in this gripping motorcycle-club romance trilogy but can also be listened to as a stand-alone. This series will grab fans of strong female lead characters and contemporary fantasy and take them on an exhilarating and romantic ride they don't want to miss!
This audiobook has some dark themes including abuse, drug references, foul language, violence, sexual situations, and content that could be triggering for some people. It is only intended for listeners aged 18 and above.
Cilla Raven is an indie author that lives in North Carolina with her husband, five children, and a big fluffy Great Pyrenees named Luna. She’s an obsessive reader that cusses too much and has too much attitude to take seriously from her four foot eleven frame.
She constantly has stories running through her mind from the depths of her own complicated, funny, sometimes dark, and scary subconscious that eat at her until she has no choice but to write them down. She falls for all of her characters; even the “bad” ones, knowing that they probably didn’t start out that way. So is life or whatever.
Cilla has a pants-off after 10 p.m. mentality, loves music and dancing in her underwear, dirty humor, playing video games, funny animal videos (probably more than is necessary), and good food to name a few of the many things that excite her.
Hopefully, this lets you get to know her a little better, but if you still have questions, don’t be shy! Send her an email or hit her up on Facebook and Twitter. She’d love to hear from you!
Until the middle of the book I liked it so much. But after that I don't know what happened...it became totally flat ,like balloon flat! I swear I heard the air going 💨💨💨
This is the first contemporary romance by Cilla Raven. And I loved it! I need more! Kaliyah is going through something that many people have been through and has some tough decisions to make. One line that made me love Kaliyah is “Everyone decides where to draw their own lines”. Truer words have never been spoken before. As Kaliyah states, she doesn’t judge people for where they draw their lines and she doesn’t want to be judged for where she drew hers. She shows an inner strength that I don’t think she realized she had. But once she made up her mind, she went with it. Making the decisions she had to make when she had no one in her corner took guts. She is extremely relatable as a character and though she has flaws, she admits them and recognizes them. Declan is just the perfect mix of alpha, sweet, and hot! Who doesn’t love a rough biker that has a heart of gold? You can tell the depth of his feelings as a person in the first chapter he is introduced. The way he interacts with others and especially Kaliyah is exactly what I wanted and needed in this book. He has his own hell he is going through and still has the capacity to care for others and put their needs before his own. He is protective without being overbearing and that can be a hard balance to find. Trust me, you want to see what happens when their worlds collide, and their problems come full force for them. This is what I would say is a mid-burn in the steam department. It has steam and the scenes are HOT! Well worth waiting for! There are some trigger warnings for this book so please keep them in mind when reading it. If you can handle those then it is definitely worth the read!
I need a Declan in my life! Declan is sweet and tender and is wonderful for Kali. When life turns upside down on Kaliyah, she decides to go on what would have been her honeymoon to Topsail Island. Unbeknownst to her, a hurricane is on the way both literally and figuratively. I love the relationship between Kali and Declan and how he encourages her to go for her dreams. Even when life gets insane for both of them, they come out stronger together. This is not your typical MC novel and I love that about it. I can't wait to see what happens next in this series.
This was much more than I expected to get out of a book dealing with motorcycle clubs. If MC books aren't your thing, you still should have no issue with this book as it isn't the main focus of everything happening. Even the main male character, Declan, is the complete opposite of what you would expect of someone who was in an MC. He's humble, kind hearted, and friendly to everyone around him, even if they throw frozen tv dinners at him. Kaliyah is one female character who is easy to admire. She's stronger than she thinks and took an incredibly brave step towards making a better life for herself, learning her worth, and knowing where to draw the line in regards to what she expects in a relationship. Both Declan and Kaliyah are heartbroken for different reasons and have trouble opening up to something new, but when you put these two together, they are just perfect. There's no judgement, just acceptance and support, giving each other strength where it is needed. And no worries. This book isn't just an all sappy, lovey dovey boy meets girl type of situation. There is plenty of action and problems that the two come across to stir things up a bit. Danger comes at them in multiple forms, but it is great to see them team up to get through everything together, protecting each other yet not being over controlling when the situations become dire. It's great to see a couple like this in an MC related book. This is one I'm definitely going to come back to.
I had a hard time with this book, the beginning was good but after the first couple chapters the book was so boring that I started skipping paragraphs. I kept trying but it just didn’t hold my interest at all and if you’ve ever read my reviews that has only happens a couple times for me.
This story, my first from this author, was a highly enjoyable read. There were bits that I felt were a little internal-dialogue-heavy, especially with Kaliyah, but I loved both her & Declan.
And Nash!! He's young, but I'm hopeful his story is in the works for the series! He goes thru some stuff in life, and doesn't let it dim his smile or heart.
Speaking of heart, Declan!! He's also been thru the wringer, & his heart has been bruised by his losses. He doesn't close himself off, tho. He's open with his community, his chosen family, and Kaliyah when she becomes his new neighbor.
This story has action, some mystery, humor, just the right amount of steam, and a whole lotta heart. I'm looking forward to more of the series!!
The MC romance you expected to read, isn't what your get. The MC is NOT a major part of the current storyline, it is more of a past and then a future. Also, the way H doesn't take the ex of the h seriously, is a bit ridiculous. The ex had shown just how crazy he is and the H focuses more on the side MC.
Not a book I'll read more than once. The characters did not do it for me and especially how they do not take the threats from the ex seriously. The author tried too hard to make a believable MC romance for me.
But it’s sure worth livin’ even if you never find your Prince Charming. I was so proud of Kali for standing up for herself, and Declan...my, my, my...what a man. Together, their broken pieces make them perfect for each other. 💔 ❤️
H/h: Declan and Kaliyah POV: 1st person dual Genre: MC romance Heat level: boiling Standalone?: Y but part of series Cliffhanger?: Not really HEA/HFN: Y Triggers: Domestic Violence and abuse (not by Hero), language, violence, explicit steamy scenes, off page killing of animals Tropes: Alpha Male, Escaping and Abusive Relationship, Forced Proximity
I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next one in the series! First, the setting was beautiful and the author has obviously been there and loved it. It makes a great backdrop to the story. Second, the heroine is likable and easy to connect with. There was an interesting bit about people having certain limits/lines that, when crossed, they react and how different people have different limits. I liked that, and although my limits are different than the heroine’s, I could empathize with her and understand that sometimes lines get crossed without realizing it. The Hero was all kinds of hot and he was caring in the way he treated people (like Kaliyah and Nash). There were good secondary characters as well. Plus there were sea turtles, and for that alone the book should get extra stars because SEA TURTLES! I found this book to be entertaining and well written and I would definitely recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
First of all, I love all of Cilla’s works. This one is no different... I loved the book even if the very last sentence in the book is one dread in books (just not my cup of tea) however, I think it was perfect for where the book started, went and then as the eventual ending. I think it was a nicely timed ending leaving multiple alleys of anticipation open.
Secondly, I loved the world in this book, the characters and the story line. I felt it was pretty smooth and read quickly. There was a small slow down within the middle of the book HOWEVER I think this section was needed for the character development and growth along with the relationship development/growth. I think it added to the story in world building rather than the action of this book. Which made me love the story and it’s characters more.
Third I’m a sucker for MC’s... there I said it, always have been and always will be. I love the resolution that came to be for Declan, I also feel this left a lot of potential for books to come.
Overall the story line was smooth, with plenty of suspense, action of all types and amazing characters! The ending was sweet but still left room for potential loose ends in the future.
Wake is a contemporary romance with MC. When Kaliyah discovers her fiancé Cam is cheating on her, the day before their wedding, instead of allowing him to continue to treat her so terribly, she leaves him at the alter she sets off on her honeymoon to Topsail, arriving just in time for a hurricane to hit. Totally unprepared she is rescued by Declan, who owns the surf shop next door. Dec is the opposite of Cam in every way and sparks soon fly but Declan has his own problems, he’s been running and hiding from past for too long and it’s about to catch-up with him.
I loved everything about this book, there’s action, mystery, romance and lots of heat. The plot builds nicely and it has a lovely HEA. I think it’s going to be a series so I’m excited to see more from Topsail.
Trigger warning if you need them include physical and mental abuse, violence, guns, arson, attempted rape and psycho ex bfs.
This has a few different genres that were blended seamlessly. There’s the biker with a past, the abusive relationship and the love instalove. Each one has its own story line that weaves together to make the entire story come full circle and blend together in a way that is really well done. This is my first from this author I would definitely read more. It has a small town feel but isn’t overly mushy or super sweet. There is abuse in this book but it’s not overwhelmingly graphic. I am sure it could be triggering to some but it’s not as in depth as many books that I have read. The narrator is also new to me. She did a good job. I didn’t feel the need to speed up her reading a little. Sometimes I feel like narrators purposely talk slow to lengthen the book. This one was a perfect speed. Her character’s voices had their own inflections and she portrayed emotion well.
FMC: 4 Love interest: 5. (M/F) World building: 4 Pace of Story: 4
So let me start this off by saying that this was not the same old MC read. It was original and put together very well. Kaliyah was very believably real in this story. Her reacions to thing and what she said made sense the whole time and really balanced well with the Dec.
Dec is sexy As F! I want him in real life! 😭
I really enjoyed reading this book and I was not able to put it down. I think this author is only getting better at her craft and Wake truly shows how she shines. (Plus the cover is GORGEOUS!)
Omg this was brilliant, short sweet and full of action from the onset.
Kaliyah what a woman, survivor and feisty as hell
Cam sorry I can't write what I truly think about this unsavoury character not anything nice anyway lol
Declan oh my heart broke into pieces for this beautiful man, he made me feel all warm and loved it was weird.
I loved the whirlwind that this book was there was moments of screaming and moments of going awwww , I'm hoping to see more books like this as this was truly amazing
I can't even put it into words how I felt about this book, it was simply amazing. Both MC have a abit of a dark and troubled past but they are both perfect for each other. It is so heartwarming to see Kayliah finally be able to be happy and with a man who treats her like the queen she is. Dec is now one of my all time favourite male characters ever. If you haven't read this you should! And you should also check out Cilla Ravens other books aswell while you are at it!
This was a cute 1st contemporary book by Cilia Raven. The FMC is in a situation that many women find themselves in; in a controlling relationship with someone who wasn’t that way in the beginning. I can really relate to her in the fact that I up and left with what I could pack on an airplane, and moved halfway across country. The chemistry between her and Declan was amazing. I really enjoyed reading this book.
I absolutely loved this book. It's like Cilla put all the dreams a girl with a past abusive relationship (and who still have hope in finding love) in this romance. It's sweet and full of hope and personal growth and love. I wish every person who suffered in a abusive situation could have that much courage and could find happiness like Kali did (even if he themselves). A cute book.
I got an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. An honest one.
I have absolutely LUCKING FOVED everything I have read by this amazing author since I read Initiate, BHTB #1. I have to say each book has only gotten better and better! She started out in my #2 favorite genre Paranormal RH and has now gone and BLOWN MY MUCKING FIND by going to my #1 favorite genre MC and absolutely Rucking Fockin it with this AMAZING STORY!! I sincerely can’t wait to read what happens next in this series....
Never read this author before and seriously could not put this book down. Some much happens in this book from a hurricane, a fire and a crazy ex-fiancé. What more could you ask for? Well you had to ask so we throw in an ousted MC President and you have more trouble than would can ask for! How will Declan keep everyone he loves safe in the face of all these problems.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Enjoyed this one. Listened to it on audible while at work. Great story line. Loved the characters. The narrator did a good job. This is an MC romance. Main character leaves her fiancé. Ends up falling in love with the town she’s in. Meets a guy. You know where it’s goes from here. The guy was an MC. Now you just have to hope your ex doesn’t track you down. Because if he dies there will be hell to pay.
Im not to sure where to start because this book is absolutely amazing! Cilla keeps you on your toes the whole time wanting more and trying to figure out what will happen next up until the end! This book is at my #1 favorite book of all time! Action, love, family, badass characters, romance... heck this book has it all so what's not to love! A definite must read!
Kali and Declan are both running away from the demons in their lives. They face a hurricane, stalker, fire, and gangs in only a few weeks! This book is a nonstop wild ride that I did not want to put down. It is absolutely my favorite so far of this authors work. If you enjoy romantic happily ever afters along with the loyalty of a motorcycle club and best friends, then you will love this.
This story will captivate you and keep you reading until the very end. It moves along at a speed which makes for a very comfortable read. The characters are interesting and you want to know more about them. You cannot help but fall in love with them and you want to see them succeed no matter what. This is a story that must be read no matter what and needs to be on your TBR list.
The book starts out as a typical broken h leaving an unhealthy relationship. However, the growth in the h through the book was great to see. Loved the depth of the main characters and that this was not a typical MC romance. Overall, the main story between the H and FMC was very sweet. This book does has triggers but in my opinion was not a dark romance.
Let me just start off by saying I love this author! I have not read anything by them I did not like. Her ability to make me feel what her characters are feeling is so impressive! This book specifically makes me need to have a Roxy best friend and a Declan for myself! But Nash man... phew! I can't wait to read the next one!!
I loved this book, it's a great contemporary romance and MC novel. Declan is hiding out from his old MC and Kalyiah is hiding away from her almost husband the dirty cheating Cam. I was hooked from the first chapter and couldnt put the book down, I have the bags under my eyes to prove it! Thoroughly enjoyed it.
*trigger warning* Kaliyah has a horrible, but all too familiar, relationship with her fiance ... when she finally takes action and escapes to the beach she always wanted to return to, things definitely weren't smooth sailing ... however when she meets Declan things start to change, and it's not all baby sea turtles in the sand
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Wow I'm reeling. Such a fantastic book. Kept me entertained and enthralled throughout. A well written story that was beyond what I expected. Pov's from both fmc and mmc. That ending was surprising. I cannot wait to read the next book, hoping there is a next book.
Great contemporary m/f debut from this Author...the full well rounded character depth is amazing...the story is painted so vividly I can see everything play out in my minds eye perfectly... well done!