Tonight, my virginity goes to the highest bidder....
This obviously isn’t the fun, romantic first time I’ve always imagined, but it’s the only way to raise the money to save my sister from her abusive ex.
The best I can hope for is that my buyer won’t be a creep. And that he won’t hurt me.
But I’ll confess, by the time the auction is over, this lifelong book nerd is shaking in her high heels and itchy lace corset.
And then I meet him. Sterling.
He’s gorgeous, loaded, and, as I soon come to realize, highly accomplished in the field of delivering multiple Os.
But what did he mean when he said he can’t remember the last time his hands were clean? And why does his sleepy country estate need a man with a gun guarding the entrance?
Most importantly, am I going to be his guest here...or his prisoner?
Sold to Sterling is the first installment in a three-book serial romance. It’s a dark, dirty, boundary-pushing romance that ends in a cliff-hanger.
My tastes and expectations in this genre are higher than most because I have read some really well done revenge/auction/erotica stories with well define plots and characters that peak my interest. I need something more than the usual need for revenge involving an innocent third party and a book filled with sex. There has to be a strong storyline with strong characters to successfully pull this genre off, or it just becomes a "read and repeat" experience. This genre like many has been overwritten, so therefore the story has to have some underlying factors that elevates it above the rest. The story had it's moments but I need a story that is capable of reining me in as a reader for longer than just "moments," if I am going to continue to read the other two remaining books. I'm also not a fan of reads that are too short and consider themselves to be a trilogy when in fact they could be one or two novels.
I read the reviews and expected something other than the "usual revenge erotica plot", but was disappointed to find that it wasn't anything special. The writing was good as far as Trudy's character was concerned but Sterling's character fell short. I initially thought that Trudy's character had more "street smarts" even though she was an older virgin but found her to be slow on the uptake. She goes into this auction blindly assuming that the terms of the auction are one thing when they are not. She doesn't seem to understand what she has agreed to do resulting in her character at times "being a deer in the headlights". There is lots of meaningless sex in this short read and lot's of moaning and groaning that Trudy does throughout the book. Her character quickly succumbs to the number of organisms Sterling provides her and willingly embraces all the dirty little kinks he requires of her.
I have no doubt that some readers will enjoy this read based upon the current reviews but it didn't peak my interest enough to continue with the remaining two novels.
This has the makings for an excellent story! Great characters, great plot, amazing lead in. Can't wait for the next installment in this series. Things are going to get very messy between these two.
3.5 stars I don't normally read dark erotica so I'm not sure what caused me to download this first of three novellas in this series? Probably because it was free or inexpensive and hinted at a lot of sex which I guess is what erotic stories are. The writing itself is pretty darn good. Better than I expected. At least as far as the female lead Trudy (yes, that's her name) goes. The male lead Sterling not so much. I'm sure by the time we get to the third novella Trudy will have turned Sterling around. But right now he's pretty much an asshole who is intent on seducing Trudy, using her for his wicked ways during which he somehow intends to destroy her emotionally and perhaps mentally and then dumping her on her wealthy stepbrother Connor's doorstep. Seems Connor owns a drug company that somehow destroyed Sterling's family and now he's out for revenge. What makes Sterling especially evil is he knows Trudy is a real sweetheart who started a non-profit to help sick children and is only selling her virginity to pay off her pregnant sister Millicent's drug supplier and her stint in and expensive and secure rehab facility. Where IMHO this plot really falls apart is as much as Sterling has taken the time to learn all about Trudy and somehow maneuvered her into this situation (how we're not told) he seems completely unaware that Connor really doesn't care about her or her sister Millicent. All Connor cares about is money and power. Since he knows why Trudy put her virginity up on auction you'd think he would know that if Connor really cared about either of them he would have just offered to pay for Millicent's rehab. So destroying Trudy really isn't going to matter a whole lot to Connor who apparently is just like Sterling, using his wealth to get richer and what it does to others be damned. There's plenty of sexual foreplay in this short story as Sterling gets Trudy off multiple times. But Sterling intends to delay having actual intercourse with Trudy which would then mean she has met her contractual obligation for the money he bid on her and would be free to go. He wants to keep her around so he can fuck with her head. So there's no guarantee that Trudy won't still have her V-card when the next novella is completed.
This book is fantastic. With so much chemistry between these characters it’s off the charts hot hot hot. A brilliant performance from both narrators helps with the whole experience. I highly recommend this book.
Sold to Sterling is the first book in the Sold to Sterling series by Everly Stone. I have read all of this author’s work and loved all of her series’. They are fast-paced, dominating, addictive, and hot AF.
Trudy needs money to help her sister so she decides to auction off her virginity. She is nervous about the man who will buy her but it’s a sacrifice she is willing to make. She is twenty-five and a smart woman and independent woman and knows it’s only one night. It may be painful but maybe, just maybe there will also be pleasure. He could make her weak in the knees like her mystery man from months ago…
Sterling has his reasons for buying her. She is beautiful and sexy AF but there is more to it. She believes she will only be with him for one night but she is wrong. So very wrong. She is now his and he will make this the longest foreplay of their lives. It will be torture on both of them but it will all be worth it in the end.
This is just the first installment to their story. It’s not a flowers and butterflies type of love story. It’s darker. It’s full of heat, twists, and finding yourself.
Quotes:
I will touch her, seduce her, use her, break her, destroy her, even though she’s done nothing wrong.
“Next time I’m going to make you scream. I’m going to make you scream and beg and come so hard you won’t be certain you’ll survive it, princess. I’m going to take you to places you had no idea existed.”
I’m eager. Ready. Desperate for more of his kisses, his touch, and yes, even his control.
The thing about having a plan is that it's really, really important to be flexible. Why? Because even the best laid plans are bound to go a little bit sideways with no warning. Case in point, Trudy Potter. She has a plan, one that involves selling off a most precious part of herself in order to take care of her sister. And it's a good plan, until that sideways thing. Enter Sterling. He also has a plan, and Trudy's plan plays right into his. Except that I have a feeling that his plan is going to need some adjusting, too. Like I said, flexibility...
All of this to say that SOLD TO STERLING, the first book in a trilogy by author Everly Stone, is the beginning of what promises to be one heck of a ride, for Trudy, for Sterling, and for us readers. Sexy, unpredictable, and with plenty of anticipated twists, turns, and those sideways plans, Trudy's and Sterling's story has me hooked.
People say that cliffhangers aren't their thing, but I say bring them on, because they just add to the anticipation. With two more installments to go, I'm more than ready for all the things that Everly's got up her sleeve. As a note, if you get the chance, give the audio for this story a listen, because narrators Lili Valente and C.J. Mission bring it to life in the very best way. Whichever way you do it, just do it. You won't be sorry. ❤️
“Love doesn’t stop when the going gets tough; it digs in and fights harder. Love does what needs to be done. No matter what the cost.”
Sold to Sterling is a thrilling and steamy start to a new trilogy. Trudy Potter is willing to sell her virginity to the highest bidder in order to help her sister get the help that she needs. When she’s sold to a handsome billionaire who unbeknownst to her is set on revenge to her family, Trudy is drawn into a dark and dangerous game where she is the unwitting pawn.
Trudy is naïve and full of heart. She will sacrifice anything for her family. Sterling is unfeeling and cold, but even though he’s seeking revenge, he’s drawn to the softness in Trudy.
The audio is narrated by Lili Valente and C.J. Mission. I loved listening to their personification of the characters and how they brought the story to life.
Full of delicious heat and intriguing drama, this story lays the foundation for what promises to be a thrilling ride. I can’t wait to find out what happens next for Trudy and Sterling.
“And I can’t remember the last time they were clean.” 🖤 Review: Sold to Sterling by Everly Stone. First book in the Sold To Sterling trilogy. 🖤 I promised myself that I’d slow down on reading trilogies or duets this year, but it only took reading the blurb and I totally sold to this book. It’s dark, has suspense, super steamy and that cliffhanger left me wanting so much more.
In order to save her sister from her abusive ex and pay her rehab, Trudy Potter will do anything, including selling her virginity in an auction to the highest bidder. She thinks that it will be a quick deal, one night tops. But the winner has other plans for her.
Sterling is seeking revenge against Connor, Trudy’s stepbrother, and destroy him. When he finds Trudy, he knows that she is the way to achieve that. Sterling will do despicable things to her and will break her, and I can’t wait to see everything. If the first book is any indication, with all the super hot and dirty mouth he has, this trilogy is one to read. It seems deliciously dark!
Sold to Sterling is book 1 of the newest hot and steamy series from Everly Stone, and I simply couldn't put it down as is always the case with her stories.
Truly has been put in a position that leaves her with no other option than to sell her virginity in hopes of saving her sister and her unborn child. But when she discovers that the man who has purchased that right is the mysterious and intriguing man who gave her the most unexpected moment of pleasure she has ever experienced, Truly is intrigued and confused by what he makes her feel. Though Sterling is at times captivated by Truly as well, he refuses to let that deter him from the unspoken revenge he seeks. Despite knowing that it will leave her broken, he refuses to let anything keep him from vengeance he must have.
Sold to Sterling is intriguing and completely captivating and will leave you longing for book 2, and the continuation of this intensely erotic and suspenseful romance.
Sold to Sterling was a quick read but not lacking in any way. It was hot, steamy, intriguing, and mysterious. I couldn't put it down and wanted more. Trudy is desperate. She needs to help her sister and her unborn child. How can she get enough cash and quickly? Sell her virginity. She knows that she can sell her body to the highest bidder. Sterling has had his eye on Trudy longer than she ever knew. Their quick little encounter at the MOMA was just a small taste of what he has in store for her. So when the opportunity presented itself, Sterling was ready and very willing to purchase Trudy. What a surprise when she discovered the man that bought her was the same man that she walked away from. What a crazy and wild ride Trudy is in store once she agreed to her arrangement with Sterling. Sterling has his reasons for wanting Trudy, but will those reasons be the same in two weeks? I can not wait to see what will come of Trudy and Sterling in Serving Sterling.
Whew, hot is more the word! Selling yourself to the highest bidder? Seems like a definitely un-modern thing to do but Trudy found herself desperate. And Sterling, surprisingly, was the only thing she recognized at all in the whole situation…
I sympathized with both characters in different ways. Trudy was selfless and devoted to her family and I am firmly in her corner, hoping she gets what she needs without paying too high a price. Her humour and directness were refreshing and a direct contrast to Sterling’s character. His motivation was crystal clear but walked on the darker side for sure.
Cliffhangers, I love them and don't at the same time. This was the first in a three-part serial and I am chomping at the bit for the next installment.
Trudy needs to raise money quick to help her sister. So, she decides to sell her virginity to the highest bidder in an auction. To her surprise, the winner of the auction is handsome, and not at all creepy as she feared. Sterling has many talents, and he proves her body is one of them. But Sterling is hiding something, and Trudy can’t figure out what it is.
I enjoyed this intro to Sterling and Trudy. There’s a bit of an explanation of Sterling’s intent, but I won’t spoil it. Trudy intrigues Sterling. She’s nothing like other women he’s been involved with. She’s smart, inquisitive, and seemingly submissive. The chemistry between them is quite strong, and that gives Sterling pause. But he can’t let that thwart his plans. I can’t wait to see how this series continues.
C. J. Mission and Lili Valente do a great job with the narration.
Sold to Sterling held me captive! I love to read some dark romance stories and this one hit the spot. Trudy has a good heart - but she needs to do something and fast to help her sister. There lies why she is sold to Sterling.
Trudy has a lot of inner strength. There were parts of the story that my heart went out to her. Sterling comes off as a huge jerk. But I get that feeling - underneath all that gruff - he will crack. We will find the real Sterling that closed himself up.
Sold to Sterling is a teaser of what is to come! The ending is a cliffhanger, but I love them! It makes anticipation for the next book even sweeter! I love to feel that crave. Bring on Book 2!
This is a short, steamy novella in a dark romance trilogy by a trusted author that specializes in dark romance. Trudy and Sterling's adventure is just beginning, and I can't wait to see how it ends. What started based on deception and revenge is sure to end with a happily-ever-after EVENTUALLY, but there are so many twists and turns along the way.
This ends on cliffhanger, to be continued in the next installment, Serving Sterling, and then concluded in Saving Sterling.
The audio, narrated by CJ Mission and Lili Valente, really brings the story to life. Lili really captures Trudy's innocence and uncertainty in this book. CJ has already shown us that Sterling has a bigger heart than the thinks he has. I can't wait to hear more.
This was my first experience with an audiobook and I have to say it was an adjustment. Figuring out what activities I could do while listening so I wasn't rewinding parts every 5 minutes. This was very spicy... 4 out of 5 for me. I thought it was good though! I really feel for Trudy and what she's doing for her sister. I think she's going to end up loving everything to come. There's more to Sterling than it seems. There has to be more of why he's so shelled off and has this tough exterior. I'm already reading the second book, Serving Sterling and I'm excited to see what happens next.
A dirty billionaire delight that ends on a cliffhanger that has me anxiously awaiting the next one.
Trudy is selling her virginity to help pay for her sister’s rehab and escape from an abusive ex. She goes through a prestigious agency. Her virginity is won by a man named Sterling. He’s secretive of his identity because he has a secret that Trudy doesn’t know about.
This trilogy starts off super hot and I can’t wait to see where it goes from here. Trudy is struggling to care for her sister and does what she needs to do. It’s her body, her choice. I can’t wait to find out Sterling’s secret. It’s a great plot twist to the story and adds something extra special to the plot.
I love the warning in the description of this book! It's a description that instantly makes me want to read it! LOL
Trudy, sadly has been put in between a rock and a hard place. She's found a way to help her sister by selling her virginity to the highest bidder....what could go wrong, right!? What she doesn't realize is that there was on one bidder and he has an ulterior motive for the bid.....revenge.
This story is a great beginning for this series and I look forward to reading the next installment!
Sold to Sterling was a great introduction to this series. With it ending off on a cliffhanger with only both characters Intentions and plans, it is going to set up a great story once the angst, secrets, and plans are revealed.
While I am not sure if these two characters will have a HEA, I think it'll be interesting to watch Sterling fall for Trudy if/when it happens! I cannot wait for the next book in the series!
Another steamy hit from Everly Stone! I love a good auction trope. And even though I should probably hate Sterling, I can’t. Because he’s just so hot! A flawed bad boy, who I suspect will win me over fully. And I adore Trudy for being awkward and fierce at the same time. Be warned that this is a serial so be sure to have the full series on standby as it does end in a cliffhanger. And you will want more.
Although this type of story isn't quite as much my jam as it used to be - Everly Stone sets up an interesting premise. One that is sure to turn on Mr. Sterling before the end is realized.
This is a serial, so this just really sets up the story between Trudy and Sterling.
This one tantalizes and is sure to only get hotter!
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
Wow, I can’t help but feel that this dark and twisted story will get more interesting as it goes along. I must say that Trudy and Sterling characters do have away of pulling you into their lives as the story progresses. I do love that Trudy is sharp and has a good head to pick up on her surroundings. I must say that revenge Sterling has for her Step-brother is very interesting. I can’t wait to see how this love affair continues.
I am narrator motivated, so I selected this story based on Everly Stone and the narrators. I really enjoyed this dark romantic suspense with a twist of mystery and a few things I never saw coming. Great anti-hero with layered complexity and depth and a heroine who is no fading violet for sure! CJ Mission and Lili did an excellent job narrating these complicated characters and situations. Enjoyed all 3 books and finished in one day!
I didn't realize this book was a novella before I started reading it. It was a good introduction to the story and characters and I'm very intrigued to learn more about Sterling. Currently reading book 2 (Serving Sterling) and I feel like this series could have been flushed out into either 3 longer books or 1 full length novel. It's still good, but after just "re-reading" (listened to the audiobook) the Indebted Series by Pepper Winters I wish there was more detail in this series.