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#Forfeit
A gripping, edgy romance laced with sex, drugs, and social media storms.
Getting divorced at 25 sucks. Teaching over-confident rich kids when you're all but homeless sucks. In fact, every single aspect of Daisy Fitzgerald's life is one big fail. Enter hot young chef, Xander. He's a Knight-in-Shining-Cricket-Pads who knocks Daisy off her wedge heels and into his privileged world of it-girls, players and Michelin stars.
High on cocktails & escapism, Daisy agrees to play Forfeit, the ultimate game of dares. A simple kiss dare ignites her feelings for Xander, but the game is called Forfeit for good reason.
Blackmail, betrayal, revenge. Can their relationship go the full three rounds?
Getting divorced at 25 sucks. Teaching over-confident rich kids when you're all but homeless sucks. In fact, every single aspect of Daisy Fitzgerald's life is one big fail. Enter hot young chef, Xander. He's a Knight-in-Shining-Cricket-Pads who knocks Daisy off her wedge heels and into his privileged world of it-girls, players and Michelin stars.
High on cocktails & escapism, Daisy agrees to play Forfeit, the ultimate game of dares. A simple kiss dare ignites her feelings for Xander, but the game is called Forfeit for good reason.
Blackmail, betrayal, revenge. Can their relationship go the full three rounds?
Audible Audio
First published July 31, 2014
46 people are currently reading
710 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Batten
6 books46 followersCaroline lives in the Lake District with her husband, small child and two Kune Kune pigs.
She daydreams of one day owning a pair of Louboutin’s and having somewhere fabulous to wear them. Until then, she’ll be found plodding up a mountain in her trusty hiking boots.
#forfeit is Caroline’s debut novel. Her second novel, Distraction, is due for publication in February 2015.
She daydreams of one day owning a pair of Louboutin’s and having somewhere fabulous to wear them. Until then, she’ll be found plodding up a mountain in her trusty hiking boots.
#forfeit is Caroline’s debut novel. Her second novel, Distraction, is due for publication in February 2015.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
March 21, 2015
True Story - I was a signing in Peterborough UK, I had £5 left and couldn't decide if I should get another book. A friend of mine suggested Forfeit by Caroline Batten, she had brought a copy herself and it was a fiver. So fiver in hand I walk over to Caroline stand and explained the conversation that led me to her table to buy the book. Carloine was lovely and said if I didn't like it she would send me her next book for free !!!
On the way home from the signing traffic was terrible, so I pick up Forfeit and began to read it. I hadn't read a paperback in ages and enjoyed the feel of a 'real' book in my hands. The more I read the more I loved this book and I decided I needed to look after my signed copy, so bought the kindle copy too.
So what did I think of the actually story ? I bloody loved it ! After reading over 300 books this story was original and enthralling - how often do we get to say that ?
Daisy has come back to live in the beauitful Dales after leaving her movie star husband. While watching the local cricket team - well drooling - she meets the very handsome Xander, there is instant chemistry between the pair but what Daisy thinks will be a one night stand develops into something much more.
During a night out Daisy, Xander along with Xanders weathly friends begin a game, a game called Forfeit, a game of dares - pay the stake, Roll the dice, Do the dare ............... The dares are based around the 7 deadly sins forcing its players to push their boundaries. There's so much going on in this book I feel my review won't do it justice. We have the development of Xander and Daisy relationship, how Daisy can't or won't trust Xander because he's too young and too good looking. The involvement of Xanders friends on his relationship with Daisy. This book gave me sever whiplash just when I thought I had it all sussed out there would be another revealation to make my jaw drop, this book is truly like nothing I've read before - British chick lit with an edge
On paper you shouldn't like any of these spoilt, rich, selfish and sometimes arrogant people but Caroline's depth of writing makes you care and love the most unlikeable of characters.
By writing the review and loving this book I've done myself out of a free book but honestly I'm more than happy to buy anything Caroline writes.
On the way home from the signing traffic was terrible, so I pick up Forfeit and began to read it. I hadn't read a paperback in ages and enjoyed the feel of a 'real' book in my hands. The more I read the more I loved this book and I decided I needed to look after my signed copy, so bought the kindle copy too.
So what did I think of the actually story ? I bloody loved it ! After reading over 300 books this story was original and enthralling - how often do we get to say that ?
Daisy has come back to live in the beauitful Dales after leaving her movie star husband. While watching the local cricket team - well drooling - she meets the very handsome Xander, there is instant chemistry between the pair but what Daisy thinks will be a one night stand develops into something much more.
During a night out Daisy, Xander along with Xanders weathly friends begin a game, a game called Forfeit, a game of dares - pay the stake, Roll the dice, Do the dare ............... The dares are based around the 7 deadly sins forcing its players to push their boundaries. There's so much going on in this book I feel my review won't do it justice. We have the development of Xander and Daisy relationship, how Daisy can't or won't trust Xander because he's too young and too good looking. The involvement of Xanders friends on his relationship with Daisy. This book gave me sever whiplash just when I thought I had it all sussed out there would be another revealation to make my jaw drop, this book is truly like nothing I've read before - British chick lit with an edge
On paper you shouldn't like any of these spoilt, rich, selfish and sometimes arrogant people but Caroline's depth of writing makes you care and love the most unlikeable of characters.
By writing the review and loving this book I've done myself out of a free book but honestly I'm more than happy to buy anything Caroline writes.
April 16, 2015
I can't believe I didn't read this book sooner! I also want to un-read it so I can read it again, it's that good! The story is unique and so different to what's out there at the moment, which I loved. It had a bit of everything in equal measure, and there was sex but it didn't take over the story. And the story was good!
I love how the book is written, in real life terms, and you believe every word. This stuff happens! And I'm sure a lot of us can relate to Daisy in a lot of ways. You have every reason to dislike the rich, spoiled kids but you just don't.
There is a lot going on and just when you think everything is sorted something else happens, I had a couple of moments where I didn't see it coming I'll tell you! She also touches on a lot of issues and the outcome is really great. I had to put the book down at one point as I knew what was coming, but I powered on and I'm glad I did! I really couldn't put it down, it had me sucked in from the beginning and you feel everything. There was a lot of up and down emotion and sometimes I felt as though I was on a roller coaster, I didn't know which way was up! But it made for a realistic and heartfelt read.
I'm babbling, I'm not good at words! Buy this book, read this book, you won't be sorry. Hats off to you Caroline, you nailed it.
September 25, 2014
I enjoyed this book. I didn't love it though.
Xander was a perfect knight in shining cricket pads.
Daisy.... well... Daisy just shit me!
One minute she seemed a riot, a laugh and a good time and the next she was depressing and vain and a alcoholic party girl yet looked down on everyone else.
The banter was good, a few funny times and a lot of sexy times.
This book had many twists and turns and that's what I did like about it.
Unfortunately in between the twists and turns and games of forfeit it lulled. I skimmed over a lot of it in the middle as it became quite dull and boring but picked up again.
So all in all if your looking for a book set in English about a bunch of rich kids and a game thats played before the worlds eyes this is it.
March 7, 2015
First posted on Dreaming With Open Eyes
I kindly received #Forfeit in exchange of an honest review by the author.
#Forfeit introduces us to Daisy Fitzgerald. Daisy married head over heals at the age of 22. Now three years later, it's oll over. Daisy runs away to Gosthwaite to leave her past behind and start a new quite life. She wants to concentrate on her new job as a teacher and on designing bags for Mulberry. Visiting a cricket game, Daisy literally bumps into Xander, a Knight-in-Shining-Cricket-Pads. From the first moment they met, there is a electricity and tension between them. Daisy defends herself against her feelings for him, he is just too young and too good looking. Daiy spends more and more time with Xander, so she meets also his friends. Daisy agrees to play Forfeit, the ultimate game of dares. Pay the stakes, roll the dice, do the dare... A simple kiss dare ignites her relationship with Xander, but the game's called Forfeit for good reason. Too soon things start to get out of control. Who can she really trust?
Sadly, this book was a disappointment for me. I was very excited when author Caroline Batten approached me for a review request. The book sounded very interesting, a story with a unique storyline, interesting characters and unexpected things to happen. I was looking forward to get stuck into it. Now I realize, this book was really not worth the excitement. I'm so sad even saying these words, because I do appreciate the effort and what the author tried to accomplish with this book, but it just didn't work for me. I want to love all books and recommend every book I read but you just can't, if you want to give honest reviews. The book had an interesting start. I was intrigued by the characers and the storyline to keep going. In the end, reading this book felt like a chore instead of a pleasure.
I liked Daisy in the beginning but at some point it somehow turned into the opposite direction. She was a fraud - a drug taking, self-centered superclub-frequenting fraud (that's the way she describes herself). The last year has been hard. She use drama as an excuse to drink too much and stop eating. Daisy was utterly, tragical jealous that caused a lot of trouble. Daisy and Xander's relationship is a living hell of a roller coaster ride. The one second they are blissfully happy, in the other they're a disaster. It was his job as a chef. It was killing them. Well, also the number of girls he'd shagged were killing them. And Finn, her ex-husband wasn't helping either. Even though they hurt each other badly, they found their way back! All this drama was too much for me and stopped me from enjoying the book. In this books are too many complex characters. Starting from Xanders friends, a bunch of spoiled, rich adults behaving like kids. I could not sympathize with any of them.The one character I very enjoyed reading about was Clara, Daisys best friend, her ex-partner in crime who has given all of that up to marry Scott and have their first child. She was the one giving Daisy a swift kick up the arse to get things right. I would have loved to read more about her.
#Forfeit's storyline was fast paced and full of action and drama. I liked the twist and turns that Batten added to the story, sometimes they took me by such a suprise and I thought "Did that just really happen?" Battens writing style is very british, engaging and vivd. I am pleased to see that #Forfeit and Carolina Batten has solid fanbase of her book and all I can say is that I wish her all the best for her future and upcoming releases.
I kindly received #Forfeit in exchange of an honest review by the author.
#Forfeit introduces us to Daisy Fitzgerald. Daisy married head over heals at the age of 22. Now three years later, it's oll over. Daisy runs away to Gosthwaite to leave her past behind and start a new quite life. She wants to concentrate on her new job as a teacher and on designing bags for Mulberry. Visiting a cricket game, Daisy literally bumps into Xander, a Knight-in-Shining-Cricket-Pads. From the first moment they met, there is a electricity and tension between them. Daisy defends herself against her feelings for him, he is just too young and too good looking. Daiy spends more and more time with Xander, so she meets also his friends. Daisy agrees to play Forfeit, the ultimate game of dares. Pay the stakes, roll the dice, do the dare... A simple kiss dare ignites her relationship with Xander, but the game's called Forfeit for good reason. Too soon things start to get out of control. Who can she really trust?
Sadly, this book was a disappointment for me. I was very excited when author Caroline Batten approached me for a review request. The book sounded very interesting, a story with a unique storyline, interesting characters and unexpected things to happen. I was looking forward to get stuck into it. Now I realize, this book was really not worth the excitement. I'm so sad even saying these words, because I do appreciate the effort and what the author tried to accomplish with this book, but it just didn't work for me. I want to love all books and recommend every book I read but you just can't, if you want to give honest reviews. The book had an interesting start. I was intrigued by the characers and the storyline to keep going. In the end, reading this book felt like a chore instead of a pleasure.
I liked Daisy in the beginning but at some point it somehow turned into the opposite direction. She was a fraud - a drug taking, self-centered superclub-frequenting fraud (that's the way she describes herself). The last year has been hard. She use drama as an excuse to drink too much and stop eating. Daisy was utterly, tragical jealous that caused a lot of trouble. Daisy and Xander's relationship is a living hell of a roller coaster ride. The one second they are blissfully happy, in the other they're a disaster. It was his job as a chef. It was killing them. Well, also the number of girls he'd shagged were killing them. And Finn, her ex-husband wasn't helping either. Even though they hurt each other badly, they found their way back! All this drama was too much for me and stopped me from enjoying the book. In this books are too many complex characters. Starting from Xanders friends, a bunch of spoiled, rich adults behaving like kids. I could not sympathize with any of them.The one character I very enjoyed reading about was Clara, Daisys best friend, her ex-partner in crime who has given all of that up to marry Scott and have their first child. She was the one giving Daisy a swift kick up the arse to get things right. I would have loved to read more about her.
#Forfeit's storyline was fast paced and full of action and drama. I liked the twist and turns that Batten added to the story, sometimes they took me by such a suprise and I thought "Did that just really happen?" Battens writing style is very british, engaging and vivd. I am pleased to see that #Forfeit and Carolina Batten has solid fanbase of her book and all I can say is that I wish her all the best for her future and upcoming releases.
December 29, 2014
I decided against reading the blurb and the reviews for Forfeit, so I went in not knowing a thing about the book. And I’m glad I did. It’s not very often I am able to know absolutely NOTHING about a character or a book in general due to social media and other blogs, but this was a breath of fresh air.
I love a British book, set in the UK and written but an actual Brit. They feel like a big comfort blanket under which I am able to snuggle down and forget about the world around me however long.
Forfeit was an engaging read with an excellent pace. I have to admit, at first Daisy annoyed me, but then I began to understand her as Batten released information bit by bit. The same with Xander. I thought he was a pretty boy player as well, but throughout the book, he proved us all wrong, and wow, did he ever.
The twists and turns this book took weren’t confusing at all, but neither were they predictable. With each reveal, I was shocked, but not always surprised, and wanted to carry on reading to find out more.
The one thing that did bug me about the book was the way Daisy and Xander constantly always thought the worst of each other. I wanted to grab the pair of them and bang their heads together, and get them to actually SPEAK to each other!
I’ll definitely read more by Caroline Batten.
I love a British book, set in the UK and written but an actual Brit. They feel like a big comfort blanket under which I am able to snuggle down and forget about the world around me however long.
Forfeit was an engaging read with an excellent pace. I have to admit, at first Daisy annoyed me, but then I began to understand her as Batten released information bit by bit. The same with Xander. I thought he was a pretty boy player as well, but throughout the book, he proved us all wrong, and wow, did he ever.
The twists and turns this book took weren’t confusing at all, but neither were they predictable. With each reveal, I was shocked, but not always surprised, and wanted to carry on reading to find out more.
The one thing that did bug me about the book was the way Daisy and Xander constantly always thought the worst of each other. I wanted to grab the pair of them and bang their heads together, and get them to actually SPEAK to each other!
I’ll definitely read more by Caroline Batten.
August 15, 2014
Best book for a while........there are so many twists in the plot that I think the author must be exhausted. Apparently this is her debut book and I will definitely be investing in the next one if it is as jammed packed as this one.
I find the endings of similar books slightly rushed but not this one, the build up kept you gripped and didn't disappoint.
A great holiday read…
I find the endings of similar books slightly rushed but not this one, the build up kept you gripped and didn't disappoint.
A great holiday read…
January 3, 2015
Wow! What a different type of book. Not as messed up as Gone Girl but with just as many plot twists. The reader does need to be aware that there is a lot (A LOT) of alcohol and some drug use through out the story.
September 10, 2016
a long first half but an action packed second half that makes up for it.
October 26, 2014
(Previously Reviewed for 2OG&TB's)
Most definitely worth a read, great book!
Most definitely worth a read, great book!
October 13, 2014
Daisy Fitzgerald is just trying to get through life and make ends meet. She's going through a separation with her hot hollywood movie star husband, soon-to-be ex husband and to top it off, her job sucks. All she wanted to do was to design handbags for Mulberry, not be stuck in a classroom all day teaching snotty, entitled rich kids how to paint. It's safe to say that Daisy is not living the dream. She needs a lot more fun in her life. It seems as if her wish has been answered when Xander, the local heart throb, sweeps her off her feet (literally) and he quickly becomes her Knight-in-Shining-Cricket-Pads. To get over the HMS she plans to get under Xander, little does she know that she'll want to stay there.
During all of the Daisy/Xander shenanigans is another story entwined with the first; the game called Forfeit. Pay the stakes, roll the dice, do the dare. But soon enough, things start to slip out of her control as she slips further and further into a drugs and alcohol induced oblivion. What is she willing to do to win £25,000? Apparently, anything because now the players have no choice. The game is getting dangerous but no one can back out now, no one wants to either. What would you do for that kind of money?
The characters in this book range from pretty normal to certifiably insane. There's Daisy Fitzgerald, the school teacher who wants to be making handbags for Mulberry. To begin with she's getting over her ex-husband, Finn (or the HMS as she refers to him), she's obsessed with her designer shoes and the contents of her fridge could rival a liquor store. Being a movie star's wife has brought her down to a size zero after being bashed by tabloid after stupid tabloid about being 'curvy'. Now she's drinking, smoking and snorting her way through life thinking that she's happy. Throughout the story we get to see her discover things about herself that she was blind to before, courtesy of Xander and her best friend Clara giving her a swift kick up the arse.
Then we get to meet the wonderful Xander. He's confident, well spoken, rich and utterly charming but even the most swoon-worthy guys have their flaws. Like Daisy, in the beginning he's happy with drinking himself silly and smoking whatever he can get his hands on. He used to be a player, one who has left a mountain of broken hearts in his wake and one that has a lot of scorned girls rooting for him to fail when Forfeit takes a turn into the world of social media. He too comes to discover that he wants more from life; Daisy being that something. To have her he must change, forget about other girls and help Daisy trust him not to revert back to his old self.
The rest of the characters we meet are consistently part of the story. There's Clara, Daisy's best friend and ex-partner in crime who has given all of that up to marry the wonderful Scott and have their first child. There's James, Xander's best mate who for some reason despises everything that Daisy is. We meet Marcus and India, both related to James (I think). They take to Daisy much quicker and seem like much nicer people, Daisy has idolised India since forever so just being in the same vicinity as her is ground breaking. We also get to meet Xander's brother, Robbie and his lovely wife Vanessa. Rob is the poster child for turning your life around, he used to be just like Xander; a different girl in his bed every night, but now he's settled down and has three beautiful children with the love of his life. It's not long before Xander decides that's what he wants with Daisy. Oh and there's Daisy and Xander's rescue dog, Birkin. How could I forget that adorable little ball of excitement?!
Out of all the characters I think Marcus became my favourite. He told Daisy exactly what he thought of her and that's how she discovers that he is spot on. He calls her out on her bs and is entirely loyal to Xander even when he's been an idiot. When everyone got their final dare, Marcus's was to do something good (I won't tell you the specifics) and he tries as hard as he can to do the right thing. He's a changed man by the end of the story and I have really liked how his character grew.
Read the full review here: http://cosyingupwithbooks.blogspot.co...
During all of the Daisy/Xander shenanigans is another story entwined with the first; the game called Forfeit. Pay the stakes, roll the dice, do the dare. But soon enough, things start to slip out of her control as she slips further and further into a drugs and alcohol induced oblivion. What is she willing to do to win £25,000? Apparently, anything because now the players have no choice. The game is getting dangerous but no one can back out now, no one wants to either. What would you do for that kind of money?
The characters in this book range from pretty normal to certifiably insane. There's Daisy Fitzgerald, the school teacher who wants to be making handbags for Mulberry. To begin with she's getting over her ex-husband, Finn (or the HMS as she refers to him), she's obsessed with her designer shoes and the contents of her fridge could rival a liquor store. Being a movie star's wife has brought her down to a size zero after being bashed by tabloid after stupid tabloid about being 'curvy'. Now she's drinking, smoking and snorting her way through life thinking that she's happy. Throughout the story we get to see her discover things about herself that she was blind to before, courtesy of Xander and her best friend Clara giving her a swift kick up the arse.
Then we get to meet the wonderful Xander. He's confident, well spoken, rich and utterly charming but even the most swoon-worthy guys have their flaws. Like Daisy, in the beginning he's happy with drinking himself silly and smoking whatever he can get his hands on. He used to be a player, one who has left a mountain of broken hearts in his wake and one that has a lot of scorned girls rooting for him to fail when Forfeit takes a turn into the world of social media. He too comes to discover that he wants more from life; Daisy being that something. To have her he must change, forget about other girls and help Daisy trust him not to revert back to his old self.
The rest of the characters we meet are consistently part of the story. There's Clara, Daisy's best friend and ex-partner in crime who has given all of that up to marry the wonderful Scott and have their first child. There's James, Xander's best mate who for some reason despises everything that Daisy is. We meet Marcus and India, both related to James (I think). They take to Daisy much quicker and seem like much nicer people, Daisy has idolised India since forever so just being in the same vicinity as her is ground breaking. We also get to meet Xander's brother, Robbie and his lovely wife Vanessa. Rob is the poster child for turning your life around, he used to be just like Xander; a different girl in his bed every night, but now he's settled down and has three beautiful children with the love of his life. It's not long before Xander decides that's what he wants with Daisy. Oh and there's Daisy and Xander's rescue dog, Birkin. How could I forget that adorable little ball of excitement?!
Out of all the characters I think Marcus became my favourite. He told Daisy exactly what he thought of her and that's how she discovers that he is spot on. He calls her out on her bs and is entirely loyal to Xander even when he's been an idiot. When everyone got their final dare, Marcus's was to do something good (I won't tell you the specifics) and he tries as hard as he can to do the right thing. He's a changed man by the end of the story and I have really liked how his character grew.
Read the full review here: http://cosyingupwithbooks.blogspot.co...
November 15, 2015
This book was, surprisingly, really good. It would be hard for me to say very much about it without revealing major spoilers, though. Several episodes had me scratching my head; Daisy, for instance, calls Xander a playboy, and halfway through the book he tells her "his side" of the story, so she apologizes, but considering how many girls/women he admitted to sleeping with, it wasn't clear what distinction was being made between his behavior and that of a playboy.
One area that displeased me was that Xander's parents, whom he hates for moving away and being bossy and blah blah blah, have a really, really good reason for distancing themselves from him, and even though he keeps saying, "I'm not the person I used to be," that kind of past is hard to get around.
Another complaint was that after two-thirds of Xander and Daisy's many fall-outs, they make up the exact same way. I'm not saying couples have to talk through every single argument for hours, and in some instances it's perfectly valid, but there were times when it came across as avoidant. Especially on Christmas, it seemed like Daisy was using sex as a means of distracting them from their anger, and that she was being selfish, sticking to her original expectations and not really thinking about his feelings.
That said, I did really enjoy Daisy and Xander's interactions; they seem kind of like people and not just like pretty paper dolls in a romance novel. Xander's friends actually call her out on being a shallow, selfish, judgy drunk; Xander and Clara get her to face her eating disorder; and she stops doing drugs; finally. I have to admit to liking the subplot with Robbie and Vanessa, Xander's brother and sister-in-law, even if it was kind of cliche.
I guess that's all for now; the cat's back, leaning on my left hand.
One area that displeased me was that Xander's parents, whom he hates for moving away and being bossy and blah blah blah, have a really, really good reason for distancing themselves from him, and even though he keeps saying, "I'm not the person I used to be," that kind of past is hard to get around.
Another complaint was that after two-thirds of Xander and Daisy's many fall-outs, they make up the exact same way. I'm not saying couples have to talk through every single argument for hours, and in some instances it's perfectly valid, but there were times when it came across as avoidant. Especially on Christmas, it seemed like Daisy was using sex as a means of distracting them from their anger, and that she was being selfish, sticking to her original expectations and not really thinking about his feelings.
That said, I did really enjoy Daisy and Xander's interactions; they seem kind of like people and not just like pretty paper dolls in a romance novel. Xander's friends actually call her out on being a shallow, selfish, judgy drunk; Xander and Clara get her to face her eating disorder; and she stops doing drugs; finally. I have to admit to liking the subplot with Robbie and Vanessa, Xander's brother and sister-in-law, even if it was kind of cliche.
I guess that's all for now; the cat's back, leaning on my left hand.
October 19, 2014
I loved this book - it was so refreshing and different to anything else I've really read, and early on I thought it had a total Bridget Jone's vibe (a younger Bridget complete with drugs and way more alcohol)...
Okay so Daisy is a little neurotic and over-dramatic, but I thought that was totally relatable - we've all been there... over-analysing everything, doing the total opposite to what we should, running from the guy when we should be running to him... she was a breath of fresh air. Occasionally, I did want to slap her - hard, but I like character's that get you feeling something.
And then there's Knight-in-Shining-Cricket-Pads... Xander... sigh! It was nice for the guy to be doing the chasing and the girl to be doing the running. I loved his character.
Without giving too much away, the storyline is a little outside the box, but I enjoyed escaping with Daisy. Xander, and the gang.
If you want serious and squeaky clean characters then this probably won't be for you... but if you want something a little different and don't mind reading about a bunch of rich twenty-somethings that drink too much and have very loose morals, then pick up this book... now!
A great debut... 4.5 stars :)
Okay so Daisy is a little neurotic and over-dramatic, but I thought that was totally relatable - we've all been there... over-analysing everything, doing the total opposite to what we should, running from the guy when we should be running to him... she was a breath of fresh air. Occasionally, I did want to slap her - hard, but I like character's that get you feeling something.
And then there's Knight-in-Shining-Cricket-Pads... Xander... sigh! It was nice for the guy to be doing the chasing and the girl to be doing the running. I loved his character.
Without giving too much away, the storyline is a little outside the box, but I enjoyed escaping with Daisy. Xander, and the gang.
If you want serious and squeaky clean characters then this probably won't be for you... but if you want something a little different and don't mind reading about a bunch of rich twenty-somethings that drink too much and have very loose morals, then pick up this book... now!
A great debut... 4.5 stars :)
November 14, 2015
'Forfeit' is the first published novel of Caroline Batten, and I am so pleased I have finally read it. It has been a complete pleasure to get caught up in such refreshing and engaging chic lit. Okay, so the characters all seem to be tall, lithe, nauseatingly good looking AND talented; and I do have a problem with the extent of the MC's dependence on illicit substances, seeing as she is a teacher an' all. And, there never seems to be any serious question of poverty rearing its ugly head. But so what? Escapism is not meant to be too realistic.
For all the glitz and glamour of the characters, whom I would be less likely to meet than David Cameron in my local Tesco's, still, this is a story with real heart, verve and confidence. There are endless twists and turns, each handled well, and the story zips along at a great pace, and with really surprising - and yet somehow realistic - twists. All I can say is, Daisy is a really lucky girl.
I hope that this debut marks the start of a long and glittering career for Ms Batten. Thank you, Caroline, for helping to restore my faith that light hearted fiction can be well written, engaging and refreshing.
Fran Macilvey, author, "Trapped: My Life With Cerebral Palsy"
For all the glitz and glamour of the characters, whom I would be less likely to meet than David Cameron in my local Tesco's, still, this is a story with real heart, verve and confidence. There are endless twists and turns, each handled well, and the story zips along at a great pace, and with really surprising - and yet somehow realistic - twists. All I can say is, Daisy is a really lucky girl.
I hope that this debut marks the start of a long and glittering career for Ms Batten. Thank you, Caroline, for helping to restore my faith that light hearted fiction can be well written, engaging and refreshing.
Fran Macilvey, author, "Trapped: My Life With Cerebral Palsy"
September 25, 2015
Great book. Very different than what I was expected. I thought it would be more chick lit and on the lighter, fun side. But, this book was actually very dark. Loved the author's writing style, easy to read dialogue. The characters were great. Daisy the female lead was both upbeat (in her own way), but also very depressed at times. Same with the male lead Xander. He was positive with Daisy and wanted her to do better, but he had his down moments. Supporting characters were a nice mix of good and not so good, although as Marcus said you shouldn't judge without getting to know the person, so read for yourselves! The story revolves a game called "Forfeit" in which the players have to carry out dares to win their betting pot of money. Xander, Daisy and the supporting cast play this wild game of deceit, betrayal and revenge as it says in the blurb. In and around the game, Xander romances Daisy after she gets divorced from B-list actor Finn. Definitely a good read. It would be nice if the author did a spin-off book for James' character, who had his shades of black, white and grey.
Read
April 9, 20151/26/15 - picked this back up.. 4/8/15 - really can't get passed some of the characters. Dammit, and I really want to know the game!! Someone share please?
UPDATE. So on a 5 hr flight today, I honestly thought about this book & wondered about the game. Dammit. You know that's when an author got you, because annoying "Kardashian's" aside, I want to know how the game plays out. I will probably read this here and there, but for now, I guess I can't say I didn't like it, since I want to go back!
To be fair, I didn't finish this book. I got up to Chapter 5, 13%, and decided to stop. The game had my curiosity, but not worth the drug/drinking, rich, spoiled 20 something year old characters. Not that I'm offended by drinking or drug use, but it seemed too Kardashian for me, and I don't watch that, so I don't want to read about the likes of them either! Unless someone tells me, that the story is awesome, and the rich spoiled characters are just the vessel, I may go back to finish, but for now, no thank you.
UPDATE. So on a 5 hr flight today, I honestly thought about this book & wondered about the game. Dammit. You know that's when an author got you, because annoying "Kardashian's" aside, I want to know how the game plays out. I will probably read this here and there, but for now, I guess I can't say I didn't like it, since I want to go back!
To be fair, I didn't finish this book. I got up to Chapter 5, 13%, and decided to stop. The game had my curiosity, but not worth the drug/drinking, rich, spoiled 20 something year old characters. Not that I'm offended by drinking or drug use, but it seemed too Kardashian for me, and I don't watch that, so I don't want to read about the likes of them either! Unless someone tells me, that the story is awesome, and the rich spoiled characters are just the vessel, I may go back to finish, but for now, no thank you.
October 14, 2014
I WANT A KNIGHT IN SHINING CRICKET PADS!!!!
This story was no were near what I expected....
Daisy is a twenty something newly divorced girl.
who has moved to God knows where to..well drown herself in alcohol and smoke like a chimney.
Only a ball gets thrown in to the drowning of sorrows plan and the hand that chucked it is the sexy oh so romantic Xander.
OH MY GOSH I loved Xand he is so sweet, a true hopeless romantic a slightly drunk high on weed romantic.
Then a twist is thrown in to the mix.
In the shape of a game. FORFEIT....
I loved reading the game the twists and turns was great, I won't comment on what the game is about that is a must read if your own.
Caroline this read was refreshing, LOL funny and so different than anything else I have read!
The writing was great, I loved Daisy and Xander I would love to read more of this group of friends!!
What would you do for a large pot of cash.. Dare or Forfeit????
This story was no were near what I expected....
Daisy is a twenty something newly divorced girl.
who has moved to God knows where to..well drown herself in alcohol and smoke like a chimney.
Only a ball gets thrown in to the drowning of sorrows plan and the hand that chucked it is the sexy oh so romantic Xander.
OH MY GOSH I loved Xand he is so sweet, a true hopeless romantic a slightly drunk high on weed romantic.
Then a twist is thrown in to the mix.
In the shape of a game. FORFEIT....
I loved reading the game the twists and turns was great, I won't comment on what the game is about that is a must read if your own.
Caroline this read was refreshing, LOL funny and so different than anything else I have read!
The writing was great, I loved Daisy and Xander I would love to read more of this group of friends!!
What would you do for a large pot of cash.. Dare or Forfeit????
July 1, 2015
I'm lost for words. I thoroughly enjoyed this modern romance with a cheeky edge to it. Some parts were slow and then others were so good you would literally leave the kids waiting for tea. Caroline has written a contempory chick lit with teeth. the book has a total mind **** fuck of a story line and your constantly thinking of who dunnit and changing your mind page by page.
The characters were interesting and i wanted to throttle daisy in most chapters she was quite self absorbed but thoroughly entertaining and kind.
Xander was just too good to be true and why the hell doesn't she just go with it ?
James well he is a complex character and I'm constantly wondering WTF.
marcus, robbie and scott are adorable .
but these characters amaze me with their rich lifestyle and drug taking habits, and the game ? i mean just wtf.
It really is a look at how the other half live. I'm new to caroline's work but already my purchased another of her books.
The characters were interesting and i wanted to throttle daisy in most chapters she was quite self absorbed but thoroughly entertaining and kind.
Xander was just too good to be true and why the hell doesn't she just go with it ?
James well he is a complex character and I'm constantly wondering WTF.
marcus, robbie and scott are adorable .
but these characters amaze me with their rich lifestyle and drug taking habits, and the game ? i mean just wtf.
It really is a look at how the other half live. I'm new to caroline's work but already my purchased another of her books.
February 21, 2017
#Forfeit
I first encountered #Forfeit on Wattpad and eagerly pounced on each new chapter as it became available.
The author, Caroline Batten then completely rewrote, edited, buffed and polished #Forfeit and finally the book was ready for publication. The characters have remained the same but the plot has changed with many twists and turns adding spice and drama to the tale. Although I frequently lost sympathy with Daisy, her constant intake of alcohol and drugs not to mention weeping, I still enjoyed the read and can thoroughly recommend #Forfeit. So be prepared to laugh, gasp with horror, probably even shed a tear or two, you won't want to stop reading.
I first encountered #Forfeit on Wattpad and eagerly pounced on each new chapter as it became available.
The author, Caroline Batten then completely rewrote, edited, buffed and polished #Forfeit and finally the book was ready for publication. The characters have remained the same but the plot has changed with many twists and turns adding spice and drama to the tale. Although I frequently lost sympathy with Daisy, her constant intake of alcohol and drugs not to mention weeping, I still enjoyed the read and can thoroughly recommend #Forfeit. So be prepared to laugh, gasp with horror, probably even shed a tear or two, you won't want to stop reading.
February 3, 2015
This was a bit of a shock to be honest but I did enjoy it. The group of fast living friends with intertwined life's . I liked the story but spent the whole book waiting for the next time bomb to go off and what destruction would become of it. I loved the suspense and secrecy of it all never knowing until the end how it all comes together. Is there more ?? I'm off to see because I'd really like to know ether the before or after stories ....
November 29, 2015
I had no idea what to expect from this book. I happened to stumble across the blurb and thought 'hell yeah, my kind of book', but I couldn't have guessed the twists and turns if I'd tried. Every time I thought I had it all sussed I was proved wrong, right to the very end. Loved the characters, all of them, and enjoyed watching them grow. This is an author I will most definitely be following from now on. WOW
January 7, 2015
Mixed reaction to this book - I enjoyed the game, and the character development, but I did find it hard to warm to these spoilt rich kids. Is it actually possible for someone to drink and drug that much and retain the level-headed practicality, warmth and intelligence that Daisy shows most of the time?
September 21, 2014
3 !/2 stars.
I enjoyed #Forfeit. Xander was extremely hot and the perfect night in shining armor. I loved the banter they shared, laughed out loud at so many parts. Moved a little slow in parts, but otherwise a good story.
I enjoyed #Forfeit. Xander was extremely hot and the perfect night in shining armor. I loved the banter they shared, laughed out loud at so many parts. Moved a little slow in parts, but otherwise a good story.
December 23, 2015
A really enjoyable read. Well, dramatic and crazy and, a lot of the times I worried, way too "Made in Chelsea" (cause I can't stand that show, or "people") but it was great entertainment, with a lot of twists. If it's a girlie book you're looking for, I do recommend with confidence.
November 23, 2014
This is a brilliantly well written story with a fantastic array of characters. This will not be my last Caroline Batten book!
December 9, 2014
honestly loved it. its witty, funny and romantic. I was sucked in immediately. The author has a way of making you more than curious about how the story will play out
December 27, 2014
Lots of twists and turns so there are some surprises
January 5, 2015
Must Read!
Never read anything like this book, it kept my reading way into the wee hours of the morning. Everyone should read this awesome book!
Never read anything like this book, it kept my reading way into the wee hours of the morning. Everyone should read this awesome book!
April 1, 2015
We are proud to announce that #FORFEIT by Caroline Batten is a B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree. This tells a reader that this book is well worth their time and money!
October 11, 2015
And the award for the best twists goes to...
This amazing book. Holy moly this was intense and I loved every minute of it !!
This amazing book. Holy moly this was intense and I loved every minute of it !!
November 22, 2015
Bloody Good Book
I love Batten's flawed characters. I could have done without the drugs, but the drama kept me glued to the pages. Nicely done.
I love Batten's flawed characters. I could have done without the drugs, but the drama kept me glued to the pages. Nicely done.
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