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Shamed #3
The Escort
For fans of J. Kenner and Tracy Wolff, Laura Marie Altom’s heart-wrenching new Shamed novel features two broken-hearted lovers who fall for each other—one dangerous, sizzling encounter at a time.
When the woman he loves marries billionaire Liam Stone, Nathan Black swears off dating, constantly being broke, and playing by the rules. His new gig’s not exactly legal, but the cash will help him build a solid future. Then there’s Carol Moore, Liam’s personal assistant. She and Nathan always seem to get paired up at Stone family functions—and always seem to fall into bed together afterward . . . or even during. She’s the perfect rebound. So why does Nathan want more?
After Carol’s dreamy boss gets hitched, crushing any chance of them getting back together, she finds herself hooking up with the bride’s best friend. Nathan is hot, adventurous, and makes her feel even better than chocolate does. But when one of their sexy games reveals the presence of a relentless stalker, Carol discovers that Nathan has a dangerous secret. And before long Carol is forced to choose between her safe old life and the bad boy who makes her feel like the woman she’s meant to be.
When the woman he loves marries billionaire Liam Stone, Nathan Black swears off dating, constantly being broke, and playing by the rules. His new gig’s not exactly legal, but the cash will help him build a solid future. Then there’s Carol Moore, Liam’s personal assistant. She and Nathan always seem to get paired up at Stone family functions—and always seem to fall into bed together afterward . . . or even during. She’s the perfect rebound. So why does Nathan want more?
After Carol’s dreamy boss gets hitched, crushing any chance of them getting back together, she finds herself hooking up with the bride’s best friend. Nathan is hot, adventurous, and makes her feel even better than chocolate does. But when one of their sexy games reveals the presence of a relentless stalker, Carol discovers that Nathan has a dangerous secret. And before long Carol is forced to choose between her safe old life and the bad boy who makes her feel like the woman she’s meant to be.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 11, 2015
17 people are currently reading
293 people want to read
About the author
Laura Marie Altom
164 books241 followersAfter college, Laura Marie Altom did a brief stint as an interior designer before becoming a stay-at- home mom to boy/girl twins. Always an avid romance reader, when she found herself replotting the afternoon soaps, she knew it was time to try her hand at writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
September 8, 2015
I have been really enjoying this series and this book was no exception!
The Escort , though it does keep us updated on Ella and Liam is Nathan and Carol's stories. You should remember carol as Nathan's assistant ad right hand women, but also she has held a torch for Liam for several years. Nathan is Ella's friend , whom made the move with Ella from Arkansas to California , helplessly in love with Ella and waiting for his chance.
The story opens with both of these characters attending the wedding of Ella and Liam and both obviously distressed by it, Nathan can not stand the thought of being at the wedding any longer and seeing Carol just as distressed suggest they both get away, which a suddenly aggressive Carol and a more than willing Nathan take to a very sexy next level .
Both Carol and Nathan have their issues so this is anything but an easy relationship that forms , Nathan is stubborn and very prideful, he has issues about his financial status and being able to treat Car on his dollar to the life she has become accustomed to, none of which matter to Carol, she is just as at home with a pizza and beer s a fancy night out and has no issue with paying , for Carol her issue is that she wants to be loved without the fear of that person leaving her life, everytime she allows herself to love that person leaves and breaks her heart!
Nathan makes a bad choice in looking for quick money and becomes a male escort , which Carol finds out she obviously hates, but Nathan can not simply walk away, the women who owns the service has her goons make it more than obvious that walking away s not an option, one good beating and threats against Carol keep Nathan on line.
Unfortunately that means he is lying on a never ending loop to Carol and the lies create distance and a rift between these two people who have come to love one another .
Their issues are not all on Nathan, Carol has her own that compound everything and though Nathan does lie to Carol it is through his belief that he is keeping her safe from Uma and her goons by doing so!
Can these two recover from the lies? Can Nathan escort he escort service? Will they get an HEA ?
For the answer to this and other questions, you just have to read for yourself!
ARc graciously provided by loveswept via netgalley for an honest review.
The Escort , though it does keep us updated on Ella and Liam is Nathan and Carol's stories. You should remember carol as Nathan's assistant ad right hand women, but also she has held a torch for Liam for several years. Nathan is Ella's friend , whom made the move with Ella from Arkansas to California , helplessly in love with Ella and waiting for his chance.
The story opens with both of these characters attending the wedding of Ella and Liam and both obviously distressed by it, Nathan can not stand the thought of being at the wedding any longer and seeing Carol just as distressed suggest they both get away, which a suddenly aggressive Carol and a more than willing Nathan take to a very sexy next level .
Both Carol and Nathan have their issues so this is anything but an easy relationship that forms , Nathan is stubborn and very prideful, he has issues about his financial status and being able to treat Car on his dollar to the life she has become accustomed to, none of which matter to Carol, she is just as at home with a pizza and beer s a fancy night out and has no issue with paying , for Carol her issue is that she wants to be loved without the fear of that person leaving her life, everytime she allows herself to love that person leaves and breaks her heart!
Nathan makes a bad choice in looking for quick money and becomes a male escort , which Carol finds out she obviously hates, but Nathan can not simply walk away, the women who owns the service has her goons make it more than obvious that walking away s not an option, one good beating and threats against Carol keep Nathan on line.
Unfortunately that means he is lying on a never ending loop to Carol and the lies create distance and a rift between these two people who have come to love one another .
Their issues are not all on Nathan, Carol has her own that compound everything and though Nathan does lie to Carol it is through his belief that he is keeping her safe from Uma and her goons by doing so!
Can these two recover from the lies? Can Nathan escort he escort service? Will they get an HEA ?
For the answer to this and other questions, you just have to read for yourself!
ARc graciously provided by loveswept via netgalley for an honest review.
July 30, 2015
ARC generously provided by Random House Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Even though I haven’t read Books 1&2 it was to easy for my to catch up to the story.
Nathan and Carol find solace in each other after the people they loved got married. They started a casual relationship but it was evolved in something more. Nathan tries to prove himself to Carol, he wants to prove to her that he is worthy of her love even Carol tries to persuade him in any way that she only wants him. He decides to take up on a job as an escort and that’s where things don’t go as he planned.
I really liked this book, it had chemistry, and Nathan was an honest character that wants to prove himself.
I felt that the epilogue was cut off; I would like to have read more about their ending.
Even though I haven’t read Books 1&2 it was to easy for my to catch up to the story.
Nathan and Carol find solace in each other after the people they loved got married. They started a casual relationship but it was evolved in something more. Nathan tries to prove himself to Carol, he wants to prove to her that he is worthy of her love even Carol tries to persuade him in any way that she only wants him. He decides to take up on a job as an escort and that’s where things don’t go as he planned.
I really liked this book, it had chemistry, and Nathan was an honest character that wants to prove himself.
I felt that the epilogue was cut off; I would like to have read more about their ending.
May 19, 2015
Well let me start by saying I absolutely loved book 1 & 2. I was really excited to get my hands on this 3rd installment and it did not disappoint.
I’m so glad we get the full story on Nathan and Carol. The chemistry between the two in the beginning was bitter sweet. As Nathan was hopelessly in love with Ella and Carol with Liam. But they find solace in each other and sparks fly.
What was supposed to be a onetime thing to get through their heartbreak, turns into something more. Something exciting and hopeful. Nathan wants his happily ever after and dives head long to get it. Carol knows happily ever afters are for dreamers not damaged people like herself. She struggles with the feeling of rejection on the inside but portrays an ice queen on the outside. Only Nathan sees right through her façade.
After their one night of heavy passion Nathan does everything he can to be the man worthy of a person like Carol. Only Carol wants the real Nathan, not some fake version who thinks she’s only after a billionaire like Liam.
Ahh the struggle for love and happiness is real people! If you’ve read the first two of this series, you should definitely read the third. It’s great!
I’m so glad we get the full story on Nathan and Carol. The chemistry between the two in the beginning was bitter sweet. As Nathan was hopelessly in love with Ella and Carol with Liam. But they find solace in each other and sparks fly.
What was supposed to be a onetime thing to get through their heartbreak, turns into something more. Something exciting and hopeful. Nathan wants his happily ever after and dives head long to get it. Carol knows happily ever afters are for dreamers not damaged people like herself. She struggles with the feeling of rejection on the inside but portrays an ice queen on the outside. Only Nathan sees right through her façade.
After their one night of heavy passion Nathan does everything he can to be the man worthy of a person like Carol. Only Carol wants the real Nathan, not some fake version who thinks she’s only after a billionaire like Liam.
Ahh the struggle for love and happiness is real people! If you’ve read the first two of this series, you should definitely read the third. It’s great!
July 8, 2015
See more of my reviews on my blog Thoughts At One In The Morning.
My Thoughts:
When Carol and Nathan attend the wedding of Liam and Ella, it's a rough night for both of them. You see, Carol loves Liam and Nathan loves Ella--so seeing the two people they care about more than anything get hitched is devastating. Carol turns to Nathan and suggests that the two of them hook up. He thinks she's joking, but she isn't, so they do. They think it's going to be a one time affair, that they shouldn't do it again, but they end up enjoying each other's company. Unfortunately for Nathan, he isn't in a place to court a lady, so he feels like he needs to step it up when it comes to his career, which leads him to becoming an escort (the kind that literally just escorts ladies to events, nothing else). Carol isn't thrilled about this, even though she knows the details. She doesn't want him to do this forever, but can Nathan get out of it and still keep Carol?
The Escort was a bit of a wild and crazy story. I enjoyed it for the most part--there's a lot of honesty to the story. I liked how Nathan was an average guy and not some big shot who makes hundreds of thousands a year. He was real, which of course, was his downfall at the same time. The story itself was a lot different than I anticipated, but in a good way. There were a lot of ups and downs, and some poor choices, along the way. Plus, there's a twist you don't immediately see coming, but it makes perfect sense when you get there. All in all, a unique story from Laura Marie Altom!
My Rating: Pretty Good
My Thoughts:
When Carol and Nathan attend the wedding of Liam and Ella, it's a rough night for both of them. You see, Carol loves Liam and Nathan loves Ella--so seeing the two people they care about more than anything get hitched is devastating. Carol turns to Nathan and suggests that the two of them hook up. He thinks she's joking, but she isn't, so they do. They think it's going to be a one time affair, that they shouldn't do it again, but they end up enjoying each other's company. Unfortunately for Nathan, he isn't in a place to court a lady, so he feels like he needs to step it up when it comes to his career, which leads him to becoming an escort (the kind that literally just escorts ladies to events, nothing else). Carol isn't thrilled about this, even though she knows the details. She doesn't want him to do this forever, but can Nathan get out of it and still keep Carol?
The Escort was a bit of a wild and crazy story. I enjoyed it for the most part--there's a lot of honesty to the story. I liked how Nathan was an average guy and not some big shot who makes hundreds of thousands a year. He was real, which of course, was his downfall at the same time. The story itself was a lot different than I anticipated, but in a good way. There were a lot of ups and downs, and some poor choices, along the way. Plus, there's a twist you don't immediately see coming, but it makes perfect sense when you get there. All in all, a unique story from Laura Marie Altom!
My Rating: Pretty Good
August 11, 2015
This is a smoking hot romance by Laura Marie Altom. This is the first book in this series that I've had the privilege to read and was pleasantly surprised. This book is more edgy and raw than I've found in some of her other books, but expected with this story line. I will definitely be looking forward to reading the other books in this series that I've missed.
Carol and Nathan turn to each other for comfort when the people that they love the most marry each other. Their relationship may not have started out the normal way, but they can't deny the raw intensity that they feel for one another.
Making their relationship work beyond the physical aspect is going to take work for Carol because opening up doesn't come naturally for her after having every man that she has ever trusted hurt and leave her.
For Nathan it's going to be a struggle also because he lets his pride get in the way and being the man that he is he believes that he has to take care of everyone and everything even if it isn't best for him.
I was given an ARC for an honest review. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
Carol and Nathan turn to each other for comfort when the people that they love the most marry each other. Their relationship may not have started out the normal way, but they can't deny the raw intensity that they feel for one another.
Making their relationship work beyond the physical aspect is going to take work for Carol because opening up doesn't come naturally for her after having every man that she has ever trusted hurt and leave her.
For Nathan it's going to be a struggle also because he lets his pride get in the way and being the man that he is he believes that he has to take care of everyone and everything even if it isn't best for him.
I was given an ARC for an honest review. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
May 8, 2015
So after reading the previous two in this series, I am down with the angst that the author throws in each story. Nathan and Carol were pretty flipping hot together and once Nathan decided being a total jackass wasn't in his best interest I liked him better, but honestly I didn't really like him with to begin with. Now, Carol had a past I wasn't expecting, but that's a good thing mainly. All in all this was a pretty steamy, drama filled read. If you liked Liam and Emma's story then I see you enjoying this as well, but don't expect the same level of amazingness bc in no way is Nathan Liam.
This was a complimentary e-copy provided by the author and publisher in exchange for a honest review.
This was a complimentary e-copy provided by the author and publisher in exchange for a honest review.
March 20, 2017
I hated Nathan in the other two books, and here he's about the same. Dumb as a box of rocks and a "nice guy" who could have the woman he "loves" if only . . .
Ugh. I shouldn't have finished it but I kinda liked the female lead and wanted to know if Nathan faced some consequences. Kinda, but not really, so he sucks all around.
Ugh. I shouldn't have finished it but I kinda liked the female lead and wanted to know if Nathan faced some consequences. Kinda, but not really, so he sucks all around.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
May 10, 2015*ARC generously provided by Random House Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
September 20, 2015
**** 4.5 Stars ****
Lies upon lies end up tearing a wonderful couple apart.
This is the third installment in the Shamed series by Ms. Altom and I couldn’t stop reading once I started. The emotions that I felt while reading this story were too many but one that stood out was love. I knew that they were going to have a long journey before they would get their happily ever after. Nathan was a very proud man that didn’t want anything handed to him and especially asking any favors from Liam. The woman that he loved had just gotten married and the worst part was him finding out at the wedding that she was pregnant. Then we have Carol a woman that was in love with the man that helped her be the person she was now she knows that there is no way Liam will leave Ella. The night of Liam and Ella’s wedding Carol and Nathan have a very HOT encounter and that’s where their story begins.
Nathan knows that there is no way for him to have a woman like Carol he doesn’t have a good paying job. He is working at a grocery store sacking groceries and that when he meets a woman that will change his life forever. He ends up agreeing to make very easy money but there is one thing that he will not do and that is sleep with the women he is to escort.
Carol is the personal assistant to Liam the man that helped her when she was young. She was working at Arby’s and he helped to go to college and they did have an arrangement. Now she has to close that chapter in her life and it seems that the man she is interested in is Liam’s wife’s best friend. Carol can’t stop thinking about him and ends up getting his number and calls him. They have a nice time at his apartment end up drinking cheap wine, pizza and beer but then something happens she want to go somewhere. When he turns her down she ends up drowning her sorrows but later on finds out what he truly meant.
Nathan ends up telling Carol that he is an escort and Carol ends up telling him that it’s a bad idea but he doesn’t listen. He thinks that he is able to pay Uma the money she has invested on him and seek a real job. But that doesn’t pan out when he wants out Uma ends up threatening him and it’s not only that he threatens Carol. Carol has a secret that she never told Liam but she ends up opening herself up to Nathan and he is going to help her. He wants for her to find this person and see if a relationship can develop. Carol and Nathan’s journey is going to be painful, there is going to be sadness, happiness, fear but in the end there will be love.
The Escort was an excellent read. The storyline was interesting and the characters were perfect. I loved seeing Liam and Ella in this story and know that they had a little baby girl. Ms. Altom’s writing is exceptional. The chemistry between these two characters was passionate and sizzling HOT.
I can’t wait for the next story in this series!!
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
Lies upon lies end up tearing a wonderful couple apart.
This is the third installment in the Shamed series by Ms. Altom and I couldn’t stop reading once I started. The emotions that I felt while reading this story were too many but one that stood out was love. I knew that they were going to have a long journey before they would get their happily ever after. Nathan was a very proud man that didn’t want anything handed to him and especially asking any favors from Liam. The woman that he loved had just gotten married and the worst part was him finding out at the wedding that she was pregnant. Then we have Carol a woman that was in love with the man that helped her be the person she was now she knows that there is no way Liam will leave Ella. The night of Liam and Ella’s wedding Carol and Nathan have a very HOT encounter and that’s where their story begins.
Nathan knows that there is no way for him to have a woman like Carol he doesn’t have a good paying job. He is working at a grocery store sacking groceries and that when he meets a woman that will change his life forever. He ends up agreeing to make very easy money but there is one thing that he will not do and that is sleep with the women he is to escort.
Carol is the personal assistant to Liam the man that helped her when she was young. She was working at Arby’s and he helped to go to college and they did have an arrangement. Now she has to close that chapter in her life and it seems that the man she is interested in is Liam’s wife’s best friend. Carol can’t stop thinking about him and ends up getting his number and calls him. They have a nice time at his apartment end up drinking cheap wine, pizza and beer but then something happens she want to go somewhere. When he turns her down she ends up drowning her sorrows but later on finds out what he truly meant.
Nathan ends up telling Carol that he is an escort and Carol ends up telling him that it’s a bad idea but he doesn’t listen. He thinks that he is able to pay Uma the money she has invested on him and seek a real job. But that doesn’t pan out when he wants out Uma ends up threatening him and it’s not only that he threatens Carol. Carol has a secret that she never told Liam but she ends up opening herself up to Nathan and he is going to help her. He wants for her to find this person and see if a relationship can develop. Carol and Nathan’s journey is going to be painful, there is going to be sadness, happiness, fear but in the end there will be love.
The Escort was an excellent read. The storyline was interesting and the characters were perfect. I loved seeing Liam and Ella in this story and know that they had a little baby girl. Ms. Altom’s writing is exceptional. The chemistry between these two characters was passionate and sizzling HOT.
I can’t wait for the next story in this series!!
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
December 28, 2015
Carol was in love with her dreamy boss for years. They had a playful affair but it was never serious for him as it was for her. He broke her heart when he met someone and to make matters worse Carol actually couldn’t hate her. Ella was a sweetheart and soon became the female friend that Carol never had growing up. That doesn’t mean her heart didn’t break a little bit more when she watch the man she thought she loved and the friend she didn’t know she needed declare their love for each other. In an effort to block it all out she proposition Nathan Black the bride’s best friend. Nathan is hurting too he has been in love with the bride since the moment he met her too bad she always thought of him as a brother. When Carol suggests they spend a few stolen moments together in a closed room during the reception to forget the hurt they are feeling, he jumps at the chance. What guy wouldn’t want to be with Carol, she’s beautiful, confident and any man would be lucky to call her his. If Nathan had something offer her he would claim her as his own. He doubts a classy woman like Carol would want to spend the rest of her life with a grocery store stock boy.
I liked this book much more than I thought I would, I had read the other books in the series and enjoyed them. I thought Nathan and Carol as a couple would be interesting and I wasn’t wrong.
Nathan and Carol get together for a hot one night stand during the reception of Liam and Ella from the previous books. They were both pining away for the bride and groom for a while so it only seem logical they would use each other to get over their heart break. Neither of them realized, they were actually perfect for each other. From the moment they look into each other eyes they both knew it was more than just sex. But they each have issues, Carol is not as confident as she pretends to be coming from her underprivileged background and having all the men in her life leave her, she is afraid of commitment thinking she is unlovable. Nathan has self-confidence issues because of his current job status at the local grocery story. He decides in order to make some quick money to take a job as an escort from a shady rich lady he meets at work. The story then evolves and Carol and Nathan eventually end up together and begin a relationship that is somewhat based on lies. I felt for both characters as Nathan tries to hold it all together when he realizes he can’t lose Carol.
I have to say for me this was the best book of the series, I am very glad I read it. I was impressed with how the author developed the characters. I thought they were both flawed and they realized they each loved the other flaws and all.
RECEIVED AN ARC IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
May 19, 2015
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Carol and Nathan hook up at the wedding of the people each of them has been in love with for a long time. Though only intending on a quickie on a pool table, the two find that they're interested in pursuing more with the other. But with Carol's background of men leaving her and Nathan's pride and lack of money presenting them with challenges, it's hard for either of them to commit fully. When Nathan takes a job as an escort, he thinks it'll solve his problems, but as he becomes more attached to Carol, he realizes that the choices he made to take care of her could actually endanger her instead.
Let me say that while this book was fun, it was also a little bit silly. It wasn't a romantic comedy, and much of the content was serious, but overall, it was still silly. Among my favorite silly things:
- A company named Zoogle and the fact that people use Zmail
- A guy signs up with an escort service and right away is given a car, an apartment, a bunch of new clothes and money (if anyone can verify this is truth when it comes to escorts, please let me know)
- The fact that the guy decides he can lie to his girlfriend about still having the job and then somehow miraculously help her do something and go on an assignment in the same weekend without cloning himself
- Celebrity singers showing up at big events, my favorite being John Mayer's hilarious cameo
While there were times I wondered if this novel was actually taking itself seriously, I was also really digging on many aspects of it. I like the role reversal of the heroine being the well off one while the hero initially has no money and a low paying job at a grocery store. I thought the crazy madam was brilliant (though evil), and I enjoyed the angst between the 2 main characters.
As far as annoyances go, Carol wasn't horrible. She had dealt with some stuff in high school (fairly serious stuff) and was trying to deal with her own hang ups about abandonment, while at the same time wanting to take care of Nathan to maintain control. Nathan is sweet, but it drove me nuts that he didn't tell Carol about things that potentially put her life in danger. Also, as hard as he tries, Nathan never comes across as a full alpha male, which I think worked really well for the story.
I didn't get any major heart feels from this book but it had a few good moments, so I'm giving it a 3/5 Romance Factor. The Sex Factor also gets a 4/5. The scenes were steamy, but there was a little bit of shady voyeurism at one point that got kind of squicky.
Overall, this was a fun read. Though I talk about its sillier points, there are some heavy things in this book, like voyeurism, the threatening of loved ones, and adoption, so it's not necessarily a laugh riot, but I think the author did a good job balancing the silly with the serious.
Carol and Nathan hook up at the wedding of the people each of them has been in love with for a long time. Though only intending on a quickie on a pool table, the two find that they're interested in pursuing more with the other. But with Carol's background of men leaving her and Nathan's pride and lack of money presenting them with challenges, it's hard for either of them to commit fully. When Nathan takes a job as an escort, he thinks it'll solve his problems, but as he becomes more attached to Carol, he realizes that the choices he made to take care of her could actually endanger her instead.
Let me say that while this book was fun, it was also a little bit silly. It wasn't a romantic comedy, and much of the content was serious, but overall, it was still silly. Among my favorite silly things:
- A company named Zoogle and the fact that people use Zmail
- A guy signs up with an escort service and right away is given a car, an apartment, a bunch of new clothes and money (if anyone can verify this is truth when it comes to escorts, please let me know)
- The fact that the guy decides he can lie to his girlfriend about still having the job and then somehow miraculously help her do something and go on an assignment in the same weekend without cloning himself
- Celebrity singers showing up at big events, my favorite being John Mayer's hilarious cameo
While there were times I wondered if this novel was actually taking itself seriously, I was also really digging on many aspects of it. I like the role reversal of the heroine being the well off one while the hero initially has no money and a low paying job at a grocery store. I thought the crazy madam was brilliant (though evil), and I enjoyed the angst between the 2 main characters.
As far as annoyances go, Carol wasn't horrible. She had dealt with some stuff in high school (fairly serious stuff) and was trying to deal with her own hang ups about abandonment, while at the same time wanting to take care of Nathan to maintain control. Nathan is sweet, but it drove me nuts that he didn't tell Carol about things that potentially put her life in danger. Also, as hard as he tries, Nathan never comes across as a full alpha male, which I think worked really well for the story.
I didn't get any major heart feels from this book but it had a few good moments, so I'm giving it a 3/5 Romance Factor. The Sex Factor also gets a 4/5. The scenes were steamy, but there was a little bit of shady voyeurism at one point that got kind of squicky.
Overall, this was a fun read. Though I talk about its sillier points, there are some heavy things in this book, like voyeurism, the threatening of loved ones, and adoption, so it's not necessarily a laugh riot, but I think the author did a good job balancing the silly with the serious.
August 3, 2015
Received a copy of title in through TASTY BOOK TOURS exchange for an honest review.
When Carol and Nathan first meet, it's at the wedding of the people they'd both been crushing on -- her, Liam, and him, Ella. Both fancied themselves in love with the other person, but Liam and Ella found love in one another and now Carol and Nathan are dealing with the lingering effects.
Carol is a well-to-do woman. A self-made woman. Liam took a chance on her years ago and she was able to rise from rock bottom.
Nathan had everything, but now finds himself working minimum wage jobs and can't find a way to keep his rent and bills paid, let alone going out for meals.
When they meet at the wedding, sparks fly. When they get together after, both are still incredibly drawn to the other but the biggest problem?
Nathan's pride.
When Carol offers for them to go down the road from his place for dinner, Nathan knows that he can't afford it so he simply says 'no'. Carol, though, takes it as rejection, thinking he doesn't thinks he's good enough for him -- he is, after all, gorgeous.
Nathan finally confesses his money woes but when Carol states she's ok paying for things, Nathan's pride gets in the way again. He will not date her while he's in this predicament, but he'd love to be friends. He has an odd offer lined up, though, so he figures it's only a matter of time until he feels he's good enough for Carol.
Nathan begins working for an escort company -- simply for events, mind you, something that he reiterates to Carol when she raises a brow and is concerned. Nathan now has money coming out of his ears and he flaunts it.
Which is primarily why I disliked him.
It was one thing when Nathan had his pride and was embarrassed to want to be with a wealthier woman but barely scrapping by, but the moment he gets a black card, a fancy car, and money to do whatever he wants with, he flaunts it. Grins like a little boy and waves the card around. Carol was right to be skeptical, but equally, she was right to be annoyed by him.
However, under Carol's self-righteous facade is a woman with secrets and pains -- secrets and pains that eventually she shares with Nathan. When she does, Nathan turns into that protective, loving kind of guy I love to read about.
Knowing that I like this author's writing style, I pushed through, hopeful that I'd get past my distaste for a seemingly immature Nathan. And for the most part, I did. Nathan's pride is a huge obstacle throughout the story, and money (his lack of it) a recurring theme -- a theme that he hides behind to protect Carol. But Carol? Carol doesn't hide, she fights for what she wants.
When Carol and Nathan first meet, it's at the wedding of the people they'd both been crushing on -- her, Liam, and him, Ella. Both fancied themselves in love with the other person, but Liam and Ella found love in one another and now Carol and Nathan are dealing with the lingering effects.
Carol is a well-to-do woman. A self-made woman. Liam took a chance on her years ago and she was able to rise from rock bottom.
Nathan had everything, but now finds himself working minimum wage jobs and can't find a way to keep his rent and bills paid, let alone going out for meals.
When they meet at the wedding, sparks fly. When they get together after, both are still incredibly drawn to the other but the biggest problem?
Nathan's pride.
When Carol offers for them to go down the road from his place for dinner, Nathan knows that he can't afford it so he simply says 'no'. Carol, though, takes it as rejection, thinking he doesn't thinks he's good enough for him -- he is, after all, gorgeous.
Nathan finally confesses his money woes but when Carol states she's ok paying for things, Nathan's pride gets in the way again. He will not date her while he's in this predicament, but he'd love to be friends. He has an odd offer lined up, though, so he figures it's only a matter of time until he feels he's good enough for Carol.
Nathan begins working for an escort company -- simply for events, mind you, something that he reiterates to Carol when she raises a brow and is concerned. Nathan now has money coming out of his ears and he flaunts it.
Which is primarily why I disliked him.
It was one thing when Nathan had his pride and was embarrassed to want to be with a wealthier woman but barely scrapping by, but the moment he gets a black card, a fancy car, and money to do whatever he wants with, he flaunts it. Grins like a little boy and waves the card around. Carol was right to be skeptical, but equally, she was right to be annoyed by him.
However, under Carol's self-righteous facade is a woman with secrets and pains -- secrets and pains that eventually she shares with Nathan. When she does, Nathan turns into that protective, loving kind of guy I love to read about.
Knowing that I like this author's writing style, I pushed through, hopeful that I'd get past my distaste for a seemingly immature Nathan. And for the most part, I did. Nathan's pride is a huge obstacle throughout the story, and money (his lack of it) a recurring theme -- a theme that he hides behind to protect Carol. But Carol? Carol doesn't hide, she fights for what she wants.
August 11, 2015
Really liked this book!!!! Not the book I expected from reading the synopsis, and I mean that in a very good way. The Escort is Nathan and Carol’s book. Nathan has been in love with Ella, and Carol has been in love with Liam, but both have realized it was just a dream as they are witnessing Ella and Liam exchanging vows at the beginning of the book. To drown their pain, they turn to each other for a sexy, passionate tryst during the ceremony. They both mistakenly think it’s a one time thing, but neither one can forget the other. But, many obstacles stand in their way. Carol has a secret she is trying to come to terms with, and her mother isn’t helping. Nathan feels like he has nothing to offer because he works in a grocery store, but his future may be changing. He’s had a proposition to make some money quickly which he thinks can solve all his problems, but is it too good to be true? And, how will Carol react when she finds out?
Again, this book is very different which sets it apart from other books in the same genre…even down to Nathan’s job as an escort. In fact, it was quite intriguing. I thought the characters added to the great storyline. Nathan and Carol are very realistic characters filled with many flaws, and the reader is aware of this from the very beginning. Each makes decisions that left me shaking my head and asking , “WHY?” Nathan, especially, can be very stubborn…at times, it makes things worse for him. Yes, he’s sexy and hot, but I found his sense of humor his most attractive quality. And, Carol, what’s not to admire about her? She came from nothing and worked her way up to a very successful job despite the many obstacles she had to overcome. Each of them suffered pain and loss in their pasts which has affected them now, and there were times my heart broke for both of them. But, together, they made sense and were whole individuals. They were a couple I was rooting for, and I wanted them to have their HEA.
I wasn’t sure what to expect as I read the synopsis on Net Galley, but I knew it sounded intriguing, and boy, I am glad I got the chance to read and review it. Sometimes, in this genre, unfortunately, books are so similar because the market is so saturated. So, writers have to make their books stand out, and I thought Marie Altom did a fantastic job of making The Escort unique and memorable. It is a book I won’t soon forget.
***Copy provided by Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.***
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Books***
Again, this book is very different which sets it apart from other books in the same genre…even down to Nathan’s job as an escort. In fact, it was quite intriguing. I thought the characters added to the great storyline. Nathan and Carol are very realistic characters filled with many flaws, and the reader is aware of this from the very beginning. Each makes decisions that left me shaking my head and asking , “WHY?” Nathan, especially, can be very stubborn…at times, it makes things worse for him. Yes, he’s sexy and hot, but I found his sense of humor his most attractive quality. And, Carol, what’s not to admire about her? She came from nothing and worked her way up to a very successful job despite the many obstacles she had to overcome. Each of them suffered pain and loss in their pasts which has affected them now, and there were times my heart broke for both of them. But, together, they made sense and were whole individuals. They were a couple I was rooting for, and I wanted them to have their HEA.
I wasn’t sure what to expect as I read the synopsis on Net Galley, but I knew it sounded intriguing, and boy, I am glad I got the chance to read and review it. Sometimes, in this genre, unfortunately, books are so similar because the market is so saturated. So, writers have to make their books stand out, and I thought Marie Altom did a fantastic job of making The Escort unique and memorable. It is a book I won’t soon forget.
***Copy provided by Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.***
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Books***
August 11, 2015
My Review:
This was a really tough book for me to rate. While I enjoyed reading it, I can't say that I ever really liked the hero or the heroine in it. They just never seemed like deep enough characters for me to love and I certainly never that much empathy for the mess they got themselves into.
This is the third book in the series and obviously Carol and Nathan connect over what's happened in the two previous books (where the loves of their lives fell in love...with other people). I haven't read those books, but I didn't once feel like I was missing vital information. The author did a good job of little recaps so it was never confusing. And I love that that's the impetus to their original hook-up. Their loves are happy and getting married, so they have wild-monkey-sex at the wedding (obviously in a private place...not in the MIDDLE of the wedding.) And the sex is so hot that they both find themselves wanting more. I loved that part of the story line. I thought it worked really well.
Neither Carol or Nathan had great beginnings in life. Although Carol is doing really, really well for herself now, Nathan hasn't pulled himself out of his humble beginnings yet. The fact that she's doing so much better than him bugs him. He's ashamed of the fact and is trying to pull himself out of being poor, so he makes a bad decision which is the basis for the whole story. For the most part, that worked for me, too. But there was so much emphasis on material "things" throughout the book, even when the characters protested it. All the ostentatiousness was still there in the background...everywhere...the private jets, lavish parties, having the restaurant to themselves. It was too much and so freaking shallow. It's like the hero and heroine didn't learn anything. And you know, they have rich and powerful advantages at their fingertips so it wasn't really necessary to learn anything.
That's why this book gets a three star from me. There wasn't any true character growth that I could believe in, which meant I couldn't believe in their HEA. My prediction is that these two will be divorced in five years and fighting over who gets the Manhattan apartment.
Overall the book provided an escape, but in the end it wasn't quite the satisfactory one I'd hoped for.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
This was a really tough book for me to rate. While I enjoyed reading it, I can't say that I ever really liked the hero or the heroine in it. They just never seemed like deep enough characters for me to love and I certainly never that much empathy for the mess they got themselves into.
This is the third book in the series and obviously Carol and Nathan connect over what's happened in the two previous books (where the loves of their lives fell in love...with other people). I haven't read those books, but I didn't once feel like I was missing vital information. The author did a good job of little recaps so it was never confusing. And I love that that's the impetus to their original hook-up. Their loves are happy and getting married, so they have wild-monkey-sex at the wedding (obviously in a private place...not in the MIDDLE of the wedding.) And the sex is so hot that they both find themselves wanting more. I loved that part of the story line. I thought it worked really well.
Neither Carol or Nathan had great beginnings in life. Although Carol is doing really, really well for herself now, Nathan hasn't pulled himself out of his humble beginnings yet. The fact that she's doing so much better than him bugs him. He's ashamed of the fact and is trying to pull himself out of being poor, so he makes a bad decision which is the basis for the whole story. For the most part, that worked for me, too. But there was so much emphasis on material "things" throughout the book, even when the characters protested it. All the ostentatiousness was still there in the background...everywhere...the private jets, lavish parties, having the restaurant to themselves. It was too much and so freaking shallow. It's like the hero and heroine didn't learn anything. And you know, they have rich and powerful advantages at their fingertips so it wasn't really necessary to learn anything.
That's why this book gets a three star from me. There wasn't any true character growth that I could believe in, which meant I couldn't believe in their HEA. My prediction is that these two will be divorced in five years and fighting over who gets the Manhattan apartment.
Overall the book provided an escape, but in the end it wasn't quite the satisfactory one I'd hoped for.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
March 14, 2016
A great story filled with love, lies, intrigue and suspense. I loved that this story was from both their point of views. There was so much going on in this and a great story was created. This was entertaining with drama, intensity, adventure and a whole lot of sexiness.
Nathan and Carol are miserable, Ella and Liam are getting married today on a beautiful beach at sunset and each of them have been the love of their life. In order to forget about the wedding and this terrible day they slip away together and have meaningless sex.
Nathan leaves immediately after, not wanting to see Ella and Liam after they are married. Nathan is taken by Carol but even though he is gorgeous he has terrible self confidence due to his job of being a shelf stocker at the local grocery store. Barely making enough money to get by week to week with no car and no goal in life. How can he compete with Liam when he is a Billionaire and Carol's boss. He can't even afford to take her out to eat.
Carol is Liam's long time assistant and ex-girlfriend who has secretly been crushing on him since they broke up. She is such a workaholic she has no life outside of work and she definitely thinks Nathan is Hot! As these two come together for more hot sex, the chemistry is amazing. But when Nathan is approached by a customer of the grocery story to be an escort his time with Carol has to take the hit in order for him to learn manners and get sophisticated. Although Carol tries to warn Nathan about his new line of work, Nathan can only see the dollar signs he will be making. When Carol give Nathan an ultimatum about leaving his new line of work he says he will give up for her. But what will Carol due when she finds out he has been lying to her and she is in danger? Will they get their HEA! Will Nathan ever get the job that he wants and needs to help support Carol. You will have to read this to find out. You have got to check out the ending in this story, it will blow you away. Loved this story where it went and how it all came together.
Received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Nathan and Carol are miserable, Ella and Liam are getting married today on a beautiful beach at sunset and each of them have been the love of their life. In order to forget about the wedding and this terrible day they slip away together and have meaningless sex.
Nathan leaves immediately after, not wanting to see Ella and Liam after they are married. Nathan is taken by Carol but even though he is gorgeous he has terrible self confidence due to his job of being a shelf stocker at the local grocery store. Barely making enough money to get by week to week with no car and no goal in life. How can he compete with Liam when he is a Billionaire and Carol's boss. He can't even afford to take her out to eat.
Carol is Liam's long time assistant and ex-girlfriend who has secretly been crushing on him since they broke up. She is such a workaholic she has no life outside of work and she definitely thinks Nathan is Hot! As these two come together for more hot sex, the chemistry is amazing. But when Nathan is approached by a customer of the grocery story to be an escort his time with Carol has to take the hit in order for him to learn manners and get sophisticated. Although Carol tries to warn Nathan about his new line of work, Nathan can only see the dollar signs he will be making. When Carol give Nathan an ultimatum about leaving his new line of work he says he will give up for her. But what will Carol due when she finds out he has been lying to her and she is in danger? Will they get their HEA! Will Nathan ever get the job that he wants and needs to help support Carol. You will have to read this to find out. You have got to check out the ending in this story, it will blow you away. Loved this story where it went and how it all came together.
Received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2015
*ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
This was an okay read for me. I think the writing was done well, but the pacing dragged at times. There were a few times in the story where backstory was a bit much--more information dump than something important to move the plot forward. Also, there were some very repetitive phrases used in both character POVs, so there wasn't a huge different in the character voice. That was a bit of a turn-off for me.
Based off of the synopsis, I was actually expecting more of the escort stuff, but the storyline turned out to be very different than I had thought--especially in regards to the secrets that Carol was harboring. And though there were some discrepancies with Nathan's job/timeline, he was able to be there for Carol, so we got to see the depth of his feelings for her.
I did like the characters and thought they had some good chemistry--I was definitely rooting for them the entire time. But there were some things that seemed like the author forgot to address OR some tries for comic relief that disturbed the scene.
One example was
Another example was
Overall, I would probably read something by this author again. I did find myself wanting to find out what would happen in the end, and the way that the Hero redeemed himself was well done. He finally figured out how to stop letting his pride get in the way and felt satisfied with the good choices he made.
This was an okay read for me. I think the writing was done well, but the pacing dragged at times. There were a few times in the story where backstory was a bit much--more information dump than something important to move the plot forward. Also, there were some very repetitive phrases used in both character POVs, so there wasn't a huge different in the character voice. That was a bit of a turn-off for me.
Based off of the synopsis, I was actually expecting more of the escort stuff, but the storyline turned out to be very different than I had thought--especially in regards to the secrets that Carol was harboring. And though there were some discrepancies with Nathan's job/timeline, he was able to be there for Carol, so we got to see the depth of his feelings for her.
I did like the characters and thought they had some good chemistry--I was definitely rooting for them the entire time. But there were some things that seemed like the author forgot to address OR some tries for comic relief that disturbed the scene.
One example was
Another example was
Overall, I would probably read something by this author again. I did find myself wanting to find out what would happen in the end, and the way that the Hero redeemed himself was well done. He finally figured out how to stop letting his pride get in the way and felt satisfied with the good choices he made.
May 28, 2015
Overall Rating: 3.25 rounded to 3 stars
Nathan: What can I say about Nathan? I liked how he took control in the "bedroom" so to speak, but I didn't like much else. I felt like he was always hiding behind his pride. He seemed like a man-child. I was unsure of himself all the time. I just didn't like him. Also, the guy on the cover, for me did not look like what I pictured Nathan to be, just sayin'.
Carol: I didn't much like Carol either. While she had her shit together, she was also a mess. It was like she was a different person then what we got to know in the previous books for Liam and Ella.
The plot was good. I read the blurb and thought, oh okay, an escort. I thought it was going to be about a billionaire escort who finally settled down. That is not what we got. I was pleasantly surprised at the twist this plot took from the normal male escort plots. It was developed well though the end was a bit quick.
The ending of the book and the epilogue just didn't cut it for me. It felt cut off. I could have done with a second epilogue that told of a couple years later or something to that effect.
The sex scenes were good but lacked detail. I didn't get hot and bothered. I didn't feel the tension that the characters should feel. I didn't have as much insight in to their feelings during the act that I would have preferred.
All in all this book was okay, but nothing more than that for me. But hell, it might be for someone else.
________________________________________
Ratings: 1 (bad) – 5 (great) stars
________________________________________
Hero: 3 stars
Heroine: 4 stars
Character Development: 3 stars
Plot: 4 stars
Sex Scene Frequency: 3 stars
Sex Scene Hotness: 3 stars
Sexual Tension: 3 stars
Story Telling: 3 stars
Story Ending: 3 stars
HEA/Epilogue: 2 stars
Dialogue: 4 stars
Grammar/Punctuation: 4 stars
________________________________________
Overall Rating: 3.25 rounded to 3 stars
Would I recommend this book: Eh, maybe
Would I read future books by this author: Maybe
Nathan: What can I say about Nathan? I liked how he took control in the "bedroom" so to speak, but I didn't like much else. I felt like he was always hiding behind his pride. He seemed like a man-child. I was unsure of himself all the time. I just didn't like him. Also, the guy on the cover, for me did not look like what I pictured Nathan to be, just sayin'.
Carol: I didn't much like Carol either. While she had her shit together, she was also a mess. It was like she was a different person then what we got to know in the previous books for Liam and Ella.
The plot was good. I read the blurb and thought, oh okay, an escort. I thought it was going to be about a billionaire escort who finally settled down. That is not what we got. I was pleasantly surprised at the twist this plot took from the normal male escort plots. It was developed well though the end was a bit quick.
The ending of the book and the epilogue just didn't cut it for me. It felt cut off. I could have done with a second epilogue that told of a couple years later or something to that effect.
The sex scenes were good but lacked detail. I didn't get hot and bothered. I didn't feel the tension that the characters should feel. I didn't have as much insight in to their feelings during the act that I would have preferred.
All in all this book was okay, but nothing more than that for me. But hell, it might be for someone else.
________________________________________
Ratings: 1 (bad) – 5 (great) stars
________________________________________
Hero: 3 stars
Heroine: 4 stars
Character Development: 3 stars
Plot: 4 stars
Sex Scene Frequency: 3 stars
Sex Scene Hotness: 3 stars
Sexual Tension: 3 stars
Story Telling: 3 stars
Story Ending: 3 stars
HEA/Epilogue: 2 stars
Dialogue: 4 stars
Grammar/Punctuation: 4 stars
________________________________________
Overall Rating: 3.25 rounded to 3 stars
Would I recommend this book: Eh, maybe
Would I read future books by this author: Maybe
August 14, 2015
Thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
#3 in the Shamed series. I liked this so much better than the 2nd in the series, mostly because the main male character was pretty much a screw-up, but in a handsome and caring way. This follows Nathan, who we remember as Ella's best friend and roommate from Book #2. We also know that he was in love with Ella but lost her when she and Liam became a hot item. The book starts at Ella and Liam's wedding, and Nathan is feeling sorry for himself until he runs into Carol, Liam's assistant who had harbored a secret love for Liam. They find solace in each other's arms in a very hot opening scene. Somehow these two people, very different, become close and start to build a relationship. Nathan, though, is a stock boy at a local grocery store and wants to be able to offer Carol more. So he gets involved in an escort service that seems too good to be true. Of course it is, and the reader groans as we see him get in over his head with something that's so obviously shady. But because Carol had asked him to quit, he has to keep his association with them secret. In the meantime, Carol is dealing with a secret of her own. They get closer, but their secrets (well, his secret) come between them eventually. The plot ties up neatly and easily at the end, but not without some trauma along the way. But none of this matters because the story moves forward quickly, the characters are enjoyable and a little different, and it's all about the romance. I liked that the characters are approachable and real, rather than the usual billionaire or alpha male that is becoming the norm in this genre. Nathan is an idiot, but a nice one. And Carol is likable, especially when she lets her vulnerabilities show. I particularly liked the format Altom used of going back and forth between the main characters, with alternating chapters told from each other's point of view.
#3 in the Shamed series. I liked this so much better than the 2nd in the series, mostly because the main male character was pretty much a screw-up, but in a handsome and caring way. This follows Nathan, who we remember as Ella's best friend and roommate from Book #2. We also know that he was in love with Ella but lost her when she and Liam became a hot item. The book starts at Ella and Liam's wedding, and Nathan is feeling sorry for himself until he runs into Carol, Liam's assistant who had harbored a secret love for Liam. They find solace in each other's arms in a very hot opening scene. Somehow these two people, very different, become close and start to build a relationship. Nathan, though, is a stock boy at a local grocery store and wants to be able to offer Carol more. So he gets involved in an escort service that seems too good to be true. Of course it is, and the reader groans as we see him get in over his head with something that's so obviously shady. But because Carol had asked him to quit, he has to keep his association with them secret. In the meantime, Carol is dealing with a secret of her own. They get closer, but their secrets (well, his secret) come between them eventually. The plot ties up neatly and easily at the end, but not without some trauma along the way. But none of this matters because the story moves forward quickly, the characters are enjoyable and a little different, and it's all about the romance. I liked that the characters are approachable and real, rather than the usual billionaire or alpha male that is becoming the norm in this genre. Nathan is an idiot, but a nice one. And Carol is likable, especially when she lets her vulnerabilities show. I particularly liked the format Altom used of going back and forth between the main characters, with alternating chapters told from each other's point of view.
September 6, 2015
I was given a free copy of this book by Netgalley in exchange for this honest review. This review is also found on my website.
The Escort was not what I expected, but I’m not complaining. When I read the blurb, I was picturing a sleek, sophisticated hottie working as an escort who would expect his woman to simply go along with things. I imagined a strong man who would seduce our heroine into accepting his lifestyle, until the end, when he decides on his own that he loves her too much to continue subjecting her to it.
But Nathan was a surprise: he was a hottie, sure, but he was not sleek and sophisticated anywhere but on the surface. He took the gig as an escort without fully realizing what he was agreeing to, and he struggled with enormous guilt over what he was doing to Carol. I really enjoyed this unique twist on a story that could have gone the way others before it have gone. Altom tweaked this story into something I’ve never read before, and did it to absolute perfection.
I felt a little confused by the backstory of the relationships between Nathan and Ella and Liam and Carol, but since I didn’t read the first Shamed novels (though I certainly intend to remedy that situation now), it makes sense that I might feel that way. It wasn’t enough to detract from my enjoyment of the story, nor did it make it difficult to follow the story.
The attraction between Nathan and Carol was immediate and hot, and watching their relationship grow, both physically and emotionally, was exciting. Wondering what would happen, if Carol would realize what was going on, if Nathan would find a way out of the mess he was in – it all had me eager to keep reading and disappointed every time I had to put it down to attend to real life.
This was a great book, with characters I enjoyed, settings that were both beautiful and fascinating, and a plot that had me on the edge of my seat waiting to find out what would happen next.
The Escort was not what I expected, but I’m not complaining. When I read the blurb, I was picturing a sleek, sophisticated hottie working as an escort who would expect his woman to simply go along with things. I imagined a strong man who would seduce our heroine into accepting his lifestyle, until the end, when he decides on his own that he loves her too much to continue subjecting her to it.
But Nathan was a surprise: he was a hottie, sure, but he was not sleek and sophisticated anywhere but on the surface. He took the gig as an escort without fully realizing what he was agreeing to, and he struggled with enormous guilt over what he was doing to Carol. I really enjoyed this unique twist on a story that could have gone the way others before it have gone. Altom tweaked this story into something I’ve never read before, and did it to absolute perfection.
I felt a little confused by the backstory of the relationships between Nathan and Ella and Liam and Carol, but since I didn’t read the first Shamed novels (though I certainly intend to remedy that situation now), it makes sense that I might feel that way. It wasn’t enough to detract from my enjoyment of the story, nor did it make it difficult to follow the story.
The attraction between Nathan and Carol was immediate and hot, and watching their relationship grow, both physically and emotionally, was exciting. Wondering what would happen, if Carol would realize what was going on, if Nathan would find a way out of the mess he was in – it all had me eager to keep reading and disappointed every time I had to put it down to attend to real life.
This was a great book, with characters I enjoyed, settings that were both beautiful and fascinating, and a plot that had me on the edge of my seat waiting to find out what would happen next.
August 15, 2015
5 stars for book three in the Shamed series featuring two people we have met previously Nathan and Carol. This book says it can be read as a stand alone but I think I like it best read as part of the series. With one more book to go I really can't wait for the next installment in this steamy romantic series.
Carol Moore is the assistant to billionaire Liam Stone a man she previously dated and envisioned them one day reuniting but her hopes are dashed when he falls in love with and is getting ready to marry someone else all while she still carries a torch for him. Carol is a straitlaced, work-alcoholic that spends more time in the office then she does with friends or loved ones so when she decides to blow off the sunset ceremony to have crazy hot wedding sex with the bride's best friend it really is out of character for her.
Nathan Black loves his best friend Ella so it's really a shame she is on the beach marrying Liam right now. Nathan and Carol have formed a bond of sorts and start to commiserate in their heartache at watching the people they want get married. One thing leads to another and Nathan wants to make himself and Carol feel better, so they ditch the beach and head for a bed. What he didn't expect was to keep falling into bed with her or for real feelings to develop past friendship. Nathan realizes he has absolutely nothing to offer Carol while he works at a grocery store therefore when he is propositioned to become an escort how could he refuse...
Carol and Nathan burn up the sheets in this new adult romance. There is something for everyone here with plenty of mystery and suspense to go right along with all of the sexy times. Carol is a fierce/ level-headed heroine that gives Nathan a run for his money when he realizes she will not tolerate any of his crap. The HEA for these two is hard won but well deserved :)
Carol Moore is the assistant to billionaire Liam Stone a man she previously dated and envisioned them one day reuniting but her hopes are dashed when he falls in love with and is getting ready to marry someone else all while she still carries a torch for him. Carol is a straitlaced, work-alcoholic that spends more time in the office then she does with friends or loved ones so when she decides to blow off the sunset ceremony to have crazy hot wedding sex with the bride's best friend it really is out of character for her.
Nathan Black loves his best friend Ella so it's really a shame she is on the beach marrying Liam right now. Nathan and Carol have formed a bond of sorts and start to commiserate in their heartache at watching the people they want get married. One thing leads to another and Nathan wants to make himself and Carol feel better, so they ditch the beach and head for a bed. What he didn't expect was to keep falling into bed with her or for real feelings to develop past friendship. Nathan realizes he has absolutely nothing to offer Carol while he works at a grocery store therefore when he is propositioned to become an escort how could he refuse...
Carol and Nathan burn up the sheets in this new adult romance. There is something for everyone here with plenty of mystery and suspense to go right along with all of the sexy times. Carol is a fierce/ level-headed heroine that gives Nathan a run for his money when he realizes she will not tolerate any of his crap. The HEA for these two is hard won but well deserved :)
August 27, 2015
*I received an ARC of this book free from NetGalley on behalf of Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept) in exchange for an honest review*
Carol Moore is the personal assistant to Liam Stone. Carol had once loved Liam and thought she would spend the rest of her life with him. At Liam’s wedding to Ella, Carol feels her heart break and finds the next best thing to take her mind off of things. Carol has been in the high society life since meeting Liam. She has money but as they say money does not buy happiness.
Nathan Black swears off dating since Ella is marring Liam. With his heart broken he is completely shocked when Carol walks up to him demanding sex. Nathan has a crappy job, no money until he starts getting leads for a job that will take all of those worries away. Since Carol is used to living a decent life he finds it very difficult to be with her while he is working a job that cannot even pay his bills.
This book picks up where the second book ends. Carol and Nathan think they can find solace in each other since they are both heartbroken over the marriage of Liam and Ella. One night together at the wedding will not be enough for either of them. Carol finds herself thinking of Nathan often and brings it to Ella’s attention who sets the matchmaking in motion.
Nathan is offered a job that is very hard to refuse. Not only will he make a lot of money but he has all the perks in life. Bringing the job up to Carol she knows it is a very bad idea and begs him to find something else. While their love is blossoming his career is taking a drastic turn for the worse. While he wants out his boss will stop at nothing to make sure he stays on as an escort.
When the truth comes out will the relationship survive the secrets and lies?
Carol Moore is the personal assistant to Liam Stone. Carol had once loved Liam and thought she would spend the rest of her life with him. At Liam’s wedding to Ella, Carol feels her heart break and finds the next best thing to take her mind off of things. Carol has been in the high society life since meeting Liam. She has money but as they say money does not buy happiness.
Nathan Black swears off dating since Ella is marring Liam. With his heart broken he is completely shocked when Carol walks up to him demanding sex. Nathan has a crappy job, no money until he starts getting leads for a job that will take all of those worries away. Since Carol is used to living a decent life he finds it very difficult to be with her while he is working a job that cannot even pay his bills.
This book picks up where the second book ends. Carol and Nathan think they can find solace in each other since they are both heartbroken over the marriage of Liam and Ella. One night together at the wedding will not be enough for either of them. Carol finds herself thinking of Nathan often and brings it to Ella’s attention who sets the matchmaking in motion.
Nathan is offered a job that is very hard to refuse. Not only will he make a lot of money but he has all the perks in life. Bringing the job up to Carol she knows it is a very bad idea and begs him to find something else. While their love is blossoming his career is taking a drastic turn for the worse. While he wants out his boss will stop at nothing to make sure he stays on as an escort.
When the truth comes out will the relationship survive the secrets and lies?
August 3, 2015
Nathan Black meets Carol Moore when the love of his life is marrying the love of hers. They have the pain and serious attraction between them, but honestly, what else? As they get to know one another, they are pleasantly surprised at the outcome.
Nathan wanted nothing more than to be with Ella forever. Then she married Liam. Carol understood the pain this caused and swept him away for a hot moment in time. The next time they see each other he is embarrassed to tell her he is too poor to take her to dinner. So he makes some rash decisions and sells his soul to make better money.
Carol just wants someone to finally love her for what she has to bring to the table. Liam helped put her in the right path, but obviously was never mean for her. She starts to feel that she has a chance with Nathan. He is just gone all the time and works all these strange hours. What is a girl to think?
Nathan finds he is truly falling for Carol. Unfortunately, the devil his soul to also knows. Threatened and scared, he continues to lie to Carol for her own safety. Can he convince her they have a chance at a future when they have so many lies between them? Trust becomes a real issue for this couple.
What an amazing book! This story had so much going on I thought about taking notes! I was loving all the characters and the suspense, though. If you enjoyed the first two books in the Shamed series, you will definitely love this one! This book can be read as a standalone read - but why do that if you can enhance it by reading all three? I loved it and found that I cannot wait to see what happens in the next installment.
***This ARC copy was provided by Netgalley.com and its publishers for an honest review only.
Nathan wanted nothing more than to be with Ella forever. Then she married Liam. Carol understood the pain this caused and swept him away for a hot moment in time. The next time they see each other he is embarrassed to tell her he is too poor to take her to dinner. So he makes some rash decisions and sells his soul to make better money.
Carol just wants someone to finally love her for what she has to bring to the table. Liam helped put her in the right path, but obviously was never mean for her. She starts to feel that she has a chance with Nathan. He is just gone all the time and works all these strange hours. What is a girl to think?
Nathan finds he is truly falling for Carol. Unfortunately, the devil his soul to also knows. Threatened and scared, he continues to lie to Carol for her own safety. Can he convince her they have a chance at a future when they have so many lies between them? Trust becomes a real issue for this couple.
What an amazing book! This story had so much going on I thought about taking notes! I was loving all the characters and the suspense, though. If you enjoyed the first two books in the Shamed series, you will definitely love this one! This book can be read as a standalone read - but why do that if you can enhance it by reading all three? I loved it and found that I cannot wait to see what happens in the next installment.
***This ARC copy was provided by Netgalley.com and its publishers for an honest review only.
August 28, 2015
I love Nathan! He held a place in my heart when he was trying to win Ella's heart. He was such a great friend to her and was so sweet. Getting to know him more in his own story was a treat for me.
We know Nathan followed Ella to San Fransisco when she took up Liam's offer and because Nathan left everything behind, he really had no money to get back to his little home town and his family so he stayed in California and continued working as a stocker at one of the local stores.
As his heart broke while watching Ellla and Liam marry, he decided to do what men do. Lose himself in another woman. Lucky for him, Carol was that woman. She has a brief past with Liam and always harbored a sliver of hope that she'd be the one he settled down with when he was ready. But, of course, that's not how it worked out. So Nathan and Carol use each other to get passed those unrequited feelings.
As Carol and Nathan got to know each other, they find that they actually have similar backgrounds. Their lives weren't luxurious nor easy but they both had the hopes of better. Thanks to Liam, Carol had that jumpstart, but Nathan was still trying to find his way and refused help. He was determined to prove he could do it all himself.
Little did they know that the time they would spend together would spark something between them that they weren't looking for or expected. Their only problem?? Nathan's PRIDE. Yup, his pride got in the way every time. He let it drive his decisions that ultimately let to really bad choices and caused more problems for him than solutions.
I have to say, Nathan and Carol's story is my favorite of the series so far. The Escort was much more raw and emotional for me and I loved every heartache it out me through.
We know Nathan followed Ella to San Fransisco when she took up Liam's offer and because Nathan left everything behind, he really had no money to get back to his little home town and his family so he stayed in California and continued working as a stocker at one of the local stores.
As his heart broke while watching Ellla and Liam marry, he decided to do what men do. Lose himself in another woman. Lucky for him, Carol was that woman. She has a brief past with Liam and always harbored a sliver of hope that she'd be the one he settled down with when he was ready. But, of course, that's not how it worked out. So Nathan and Carol use each other to get passed those unrequited feelings.
As Carol and Nathan got to know each other, they find that they actually have similar backgrounds. Their lives weren't luxurious nor easy but they both had the hopes of better. Thanks to Liam, Carol had that jumpstart, but Nathan was still trying to find his way and refused help. He was determined to prove he could do it all himself.
Little did they know that the time they would spend together would spark something between them that they weren't looking for or expected. Their only problem?? Nathan's PRIDE. Yup, his pride got in the way every time. He let it drive his decisions that ultimately let to really bad choices and caused more problems for him than solutions.
I have to say, Nathan and Carol's story is my favorite of the series so far. The Escort was much more raw and emotional for me and I loved every heartache it out me through.
June 30, 2015
ARC provided by netgalley for an honesI missed the first two books in the series so I went in reading this book with no info on Liam and Ella. Nathan was in love with Ella but she married Liam. Carol felt the same way about Liam. So why Liam and Ella are saying there vows Nathan and Carol run off into the house together and have sex. After they are done Nathan leaves. I really didn't understand how it could be rebound sex when from what I was getting that Ella and Nathan were only friends and didn't date so I was confused on the rebound part when Carol and Nathan referred to it that way. Nathan is taking online classes and also works as a grocery stocker. He knows he doesn't have the kind of money like Carol has since she is Liam's personal assistant for the company that him and his friend built from the ground up. Ella comes into the office and Carol ask her for Nathans number. She give him a call and from there Nathans pride comes into play. He wants to be the kind of man who can take care of Carol. So he takes what Uma is offering him. He becomes an escort. Carol didn't like that when she found out but Nathan was only doing it until he could save up some money and found something better Carol wanted him to quit.. Nathan by far was such a sweet guy and he was in way over his head when it came to trying to quit working for Uma. Things go from okay between Nathan and Carol to really bad. Lets just say that bad things happen and poor Nathan knew that what is was doing was going to cause him to lose the woman he loved if he didn't get things fixed. If you want to know what happened you need to read this book. I enjoyed the story. t review.
August 11, 2015
4 Stars!
This author is at it again in the Shamed Series. This book, while part of a series, is a complete standalone (but I will warn you that you will want to go back and read the rest of the series to get the others' stories). This author is definitely talented and I can't wait for more.
This book was good. It kept my attention from the beginning until the very end. It was sexy, sweet, intense, passionate, edgy, and had quite a few twists and turns along the way. This book is NOT your typical romance and will definitely get you thinking outside of the box.
This is Carol and Nathan's story. Carol and Nathan are miserable and broken hearted. The ones they loved or though they loved are now married and blissfully happy. So why not use each other to try and mend their broken hearts? But it is never that easy and definitely about to get complicated.
Carol thought she was in love and now, she knows it wasn't that. Her body comes alive when she is around Nathan but something is off. Nathan is barely making ends meet. He lost the girl he once loved and now he is taking a hard look at his life. They both need to see what's important.
When Nathan takes a job as an escort, it is going to get complicated. He is starting to get feelings for Carol and she for him. But she cannot accept what he does because of the what ifs. And now someone is not happy and causing problems. Can they find who it is and their happy ending?
I recommend this book.
Virtual Tour---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2015...
This author is at it again in the Shamed Series. This book, while part of a series, is a complete standalone (but I will warn you that you will want to go back and read the rest of the series to get the others' stories). This author is definitely talented and I can't wait for more.
This book was good. It kept my attention from the beginning until the very end. It was sexy, sweet, intense, passionate, edgy, and had quite a few twists and turns along the way. This book is NOT your typical romance and will definitely get you thinking outside of the box.
This is Carol and Nathan's story. Carol and Nathan are miserable and broken hearted. The ones they loved or though they loved are now married and blissfully happy. So why not use each other to try and mend their broken hearts? But it is never that easy and definitely about to get complicated.
Carol thought she was in love and now, she knows it wasn't that. Her body comes alive when she is around Nathan but something is off. Nathan is barely making ends meet. He lost the girl he once loved and now he is taking a hard look at his life. They both need to see what's important.
When Nathan takes a job as an escort, it is going to get complicated. He is starting to get feelings for Carol and she for him. But she cannot accept what he does because of the what ifs. And now someone is not happy and causing problems. Can they find who it is and their happy ending?
I recommend this book.
Virtual Tour---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2015...
August 9, 2015
'The Escort' is book 3 of 4 from the 'Shamed' series. This book follows Nathan (who is in love with Ella) and Carol (who has been in love with Liam since their brief relationship many years ago). Nathan and Carol have a tryst during Liam and Ella's wedding to try and alleviate some of the pain they are feeling over the nuptials that are taking place. They soon realize that they like each other and would like to start dating. Nathan has a job as a grocery store stock person and is approached by a customer and asked if he would like to earn big money quickly. Nathan knows he can't treat Carol to the nicer things in life with his current job so he accepts the new job offer as an escort. Nathan loves the idea of earning so much money with such little effort but Carol does not want Nathan working as an escort and begs him to stop, but when he tries to quit his new boss has other ideas and refuses to let him leave her employ. Nathan's life goes from bad to worse when he begins to lie to Carol about having quit his job and the lies continue while putting their relationship in jeapordy. Will their relationship survive the deceit and lies that Nathan has been telling Carol or will it be too much for her to accept?
This is not a storyline that I have read before and was very excited to read this book after having read 'Control' and 'Possess' . Laura Marie Altom did a really great job again of writing this book and you will not be disappointed by her work. Book 4 in this series releases later this year and I can't wait!!,
This is not a storyline that I have read before and was very excited to read this book after having read 'Control' and 'Possess' . Laura Marie Altom did a really great job again of writing this book and you will not be disappointed by her work. Book 4 in this series releases later this year and I can't wait!!,
August 9, 2015
Steamy!
Nathan Black was best friends with Ella and wanted her for his own. Carol Moore worked for and previously dated billionaire Liam Stone and wanted him back. Unfortunately for them, Liam and Ella meet and fall in love. Now as they are miserably watching Ella and Liam exchange wedding vows, Nathan and Carol sneak off to drown their sorrows in each other. It's only meant to be a distraction from their heartbreak, but neither of them can forget the other and eventually hook up again and begin to date.
Nathan feels like he's not good enough for Carol because he is broke and working a dead end job, so when a job offer that's too good to be true comes along, he decides to take it. Being an escort for Uma Rosemont at Guilty Pleasures seems like easy money, and it gives Nathan the perks that he feels he needs to be worthy of dating Carol. Down the road when he decides to quit, things get ugly with Uma. She makes veiled threats of what will happen if he doesn't earn her the money back that she spent buying him a wardrobe, a car, an apartment, training him, etc. He doesn't want to scare Carol and thinks he can handle Uma himself, so he doesn't tell her the truth and continues going on jobs for Uma.
When it all explodes and a crime is committed, will Nathan be taken down in a set up? Will Carol ever be able to forgive him for lying to her about quitting? Will the love they are feeling for each other be enough to get them through the fall out of everything falling apart? Read the book to find out!
Nathan Black was best friends with Ella and wanted her for his own. Carol Moore worked for and previously dated billionaire Liam Stone and wanted him back. Unfortunately for them, Liam and Ella meet and fall in love. Now as they are miserably watching Ella and Liam exchange wedding vows, Nathan and Carol sneak off to drown their sorrows in each other. It's only meant to be a distraction from their heartbreak, but neither of them can forget the other and eventually hook up again and begin to date.
Nathan feels like he's not good enough for Carol because he is broke and working a dead end job, so when a job offer that's too good to be true comes along, he decides to take it. Being an escort for Uma Rosemont at Guilty Pleasures seems like easy money, and it gives Nathan the perks that he feels he needs to be worthy of dating Carol. Down the road when he decides to quit, things get ugly with Uma. She makes veiled threats of what will happen if he doesn't earn her the money back that she spent buying him a wardrobe, a car, an apartment, training him, etc. He doesn't want to scare Carol and thinks he can handle Uma himself, so he doesn't tell her the truth and continues going on jobs for Uma.
When it all explodes and a crime is committed, will Nathan be taken down in a set up? Will Carol ever be able to forgive him for lying to her about quitting? Will the love they are feeling for each other be enough to get them through the fall out of everything falling apart? Read the book to find out!
August 12, 2015
My favorite thing about this book is Nathan. Strangely, he is also my least favorite thing about this book as well. I loved that he was just a normal guy. He's not well-educated, rich and/spoiled. He's had a rough past but he isn't broken; He's not a womanizer or a manwhore. He's just a guy who is trying to make something better of himself without the help of anyone else. It's so refreshing to read about an average Joe for once. However, it's also that drive to be something more than average and his pride that frustrated me so much throughout his story.
I really liked Carol too. At least when she wasn't being naive, gullible and too easily forgiving of Nathan and his behavior and attitude. Too often he turned his faults into blaming Carol for not trusting him enough and I just wanted to shake her and force her to really confront him.
I went back and forth from loving this story to disliking it for these very reasons but I was too invested in seeing Carol and Nathan get their HEA to stop reading. Any concerns I had about the story and characters were far outweighed by how much I wanted to see them end up together.
This is my first read by this author but it won't be my last. I NEED to go back and read Liam and Ella's story now.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I really liked Carol too. At least when she wasn't being naive, gullible and too easily forgiving of Nathan and his behavior and attitude. Too often he turned his faults into blaming Carol for not trusting him enough and I just wanted to shake her and force her to really confront him.
I went back and forth from loving this story to disliking it for these very reasons but I was too invested in seeing Carol and Nathan get their HEA to stop reading. Any concerns I had about the story and characters were far outweighed by how much I wanted to see them end up together.
This is my first read by this author but it won't be my last. I NEED to go back and read Liam and Ella's story now.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
August 12, 2015
Ella and Liam are married. Nathan is absolutely crushed. He’s in love with Ella. On the other side of the wedding reception stands Carol. She’s absolutely crushed. She’s in love with Liam. Nathan and Carol commiserate with each other at the reception and leave to have sex. What hot and steamy it is too! Whew, fanning myself.
Nathan becomes interested in Carol, but Carol is high class and Nathan is a stocker in a grocery store. A customer that’s a regular at the store, hands Nathan a business card and tells him to call her if he wants to make some money. After a while he does call her and she recruits him for her escort service. She teaches him how to be a gentleman. When Nathan tells Carol, she is appalled. She tells him that that is not him, and he shouldn’t get involved with it. Nathan wants the money to take Carol on a date and impress her. Carol says it’s not necessary, she likes him just the way he is. She also doesn’t want to be sharing him with dozens of other women.
Nathan and Carol love each other but are too stubborn to see it. They do have their moments of really hot, steamy, and inventive sex!!! It’s a good read to follow them dancing around each other. With lies, comes heartbreak. But there is a HEA.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
Nathan becomes interested in Carol, but Carol is high class and Nathan is a stocker in a grocery store. A customer that’s a regular at the store, hands Nathan a business card and tells him to call her if he wants to make some money. After a while he does call her and she recruits him for her escort service. She teaches him how to be a gentleman. When Nathan tells Carol, she is appalled. She tells him that that is not him, and he shouldn’t get involved with it. Nathan wants the money to take Carol on a date and impress her. Carol says it’s not necessary, she likes him just the way he is. She also doesn’t want to be sharing him with dozens of other women.
Nathan and Carol love each other but are too stubborn to see it. They do have their moments of really hot, steamy, and inventive sex!!! It’s a good read to follow them dancing around each other. With lies, comes heartbreak. But there is a HEA.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
August 11, 2015
Hooray that Nathan got his own voice!
We first met Nathan while he was working at Walmart with "Julie-Ella".
He always seemed a little lost to me. Convinced himself that he was in love with Ella and tried to steal her heart away from Liam.
Nathan's story begins at Ella and Liam's wedding. Nothing speaks 'friend-zone' louder than watching the girl you think you love pledge herself to another man.
Carol, Liam's assistant and once lover, thinks she's in love with Liam and gets her heart shattered as she watched him pledge to Love Ella for the rest of his life.
There is a bright spot for Nathan and Carol as they share their misery together. (Warning: There is a pool table involved.)
That day brings Nathan and Carol together in a way that neither one expected.
But there are things that Nathan wants. Things that Carol already has. Things that Nathan isn't willing to overlook.
He gets drawn into something that is almost impossible to escape. And as it begins to effect Carol, Nathan's almost obsessive need to keep her safe begins to destroy the best thing he's ever had.
There are secrets and lies aplently that can turn two souls completely against each other.
Question is...Will Carol and Nathan be able to survive it?
We first met Nathan while he was working at Walmart with "Julie-Ella".
He always seemed a little lost to me. Convinced himself that he was in love with Ella and tried to steal her heart away from Liam.
Nathan's story begins at Ella and Liam's wedding. Nothing speaks 'friend-zone' louder than watching the girl you think you love pledge herself to another man.
Carol, Liam's assistant and once lover, thinks she's in love with Liam and gets her heart shattered as she watched him pledge to Love Ella for the rest of his life.
There is a bright spot for Nathan and Carol as they share their misery together. (Warning: There is a pool table involved.)
That day brings Nathan and Carol together in a way that neither one expected.
But there are things that Nathan wants. Things that Carol already has. Things that Nathan isn't willing to overlook.
He gets drawn into something that is almost impossible to escape. And as it begins to effect Carol, Nathan's almost obsessive need to keep her safe begins to destroy the best thing he's ever had.
There are secrets and lies aplently that can turn two souls completely against each other.
Question is...Will Carol and Nathan be able to survive it?
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