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Hardcore #2
Hardcore: Volume Two
** Part two of a three part serial **
The choice is steep: Stay on the ledge and steal Van's painting or take the leap and sacrifice her sister. It's another decision in a long line that she's had to make in her life, and though it's easy to make, it's impossible to execute.
Jade won't let Cory go until she gets what she wants, but the price for Cory is high. It's never been hard to steal, to lie, but Van changed all the rules. It was the last thing she wanted to do to him. But as much as that choice is agony, there's really only one to make.
Betrayal and pain. Love and loss. Decisions and consequences. The edge Cory walks is razor sharp and sky high, but she can't look down. Not until she makes it to the other side.
The choice is steep: Stay on the ledge and steal Van's painting or take the leap and sacrifice her sister. It's another decision in a long line that she's had to make in her life, and though it's easy to make, it's impossible to execute.
Jade won't let Cory go until she gets what she wants, but the price for Cory is high. It's never been hard to steal, to lie, but Van changed all the rules. It was the last thing she wanted to do to him. But as much as that choice is agony, there's really only one to make.
Betrayal and pain. Love and loss. Decisions and consequences. The edge Cory walks is razor sharp and sky high, but she can't look down. Not until she makes it to the other side.
Unknown Binding
First published February 24, 2015
9 people are currently reading
540 people want to read
About the author
Staci Hart
60 books6,215 followersI was the kid who stayed inside to read.
As a four-eyed nerd with a bad perm, I was no one’s dodgeball pick, but I had a lot of friends. Frodo and Bilbo, for instance. Kristy, Stacey, Claudia and the gang (iykyk). Once, in the third grade, I wrote a teen murder mystery inspired by Christopher Pike. On solving my mystery in twelve pages, I decided I was a terrible writer and should never, ever do that again.
Fortunately, I didn’t take my own advice.
I write romance for that feeling you get at the end, like you’re standing on top of a mountain with a backpack full of hundred dollar bills. I write romcoms because is there anything better than banter and grand gestures? I write because I love to create and I love words. I love books, and I love stretching my imagination. I love love, and if you do too, bring your coffee and have a seat. I think we’re gonna be friends.
Stay connected!
Instagram: http://instagram.com/quirkybird
Facebook: http://facebook.com/stacihartnovels
Reader Group: http://facebook.com/groups/stacihart
As a four-eyed nerd with a bad perm, I was no one’s dodgeball pick, but I had a lot of friends. Frodo and Bilbo, for instance. Kristy, Stacey, Claudia and the gang (iykyk). Once, in the third grade, I wrote a teen murder mystery inspired by Christopher Pike. On solving my mystery in twelve pages, I decided I was a terrible writer and should never, ever do that again.
Fortunately, I didn’t take my own advice.
I write romance for that feeling you get at the end, like you’re standing on top of a mountain with a backpack full of hundred dollar bills. I write romcoms because is there anything better than banter and grand gestures? I write because I love to create and I love words. I love books, and I love stretching my imagination. I love love, and if you do too, bring your coffee and have a seat. I think we’re gonna be friends.
Stay connected!
Instagram: http://instagram.com/quirkybird
Facebook: http://facebook.com/stacihartnovels
Reader Group: http://facebook.com/groups/stacihart
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
August 10, 2016
★★★ 3 Stars ★★★
Possible spoilers, it you haven't read book 1.
Following on from, Hardcore 1, Cory has been beaten and threatened by Jade who is blackmailing her to steal Van's Rothko painting. With her sisters safety at stake, Cory is adamant that she will never be lucky enough to get her happy ever after with Van and plans to break up with him before the heist takes place.
Heartbroken, she turns to Erin for comfort and this is what bothered me about this book, I needed more Van and I didn't want Cory to seek physical comfort from someone else because she was hurting over him.
Still, now that they have a plan to put things right and she wants to come clean to Van, I am very eager to see how the final part of this series ends.
ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
"You have to trust the people who love you, Cory. That’s part of what love is. And if your honesty pushes someone away, then they didn’t love you in the first place."
Possible spoilers, it you haven't read book 1.
Following on from, Hardcore 1, Cory has been beaten and threatened by Jade who is blackmailing her to steal Van's Rothko painting. With her sisters safety at stake, Cory is adamant that she will never be lucky enough to get her happy ever after with Van and plans to break up with him before the heist takes place.
Heartbroken, she turns to Erin for comfort and this is what bothered me about this book, I needed more Van and I didn't want Cory to seek physical comfort from someone else because she was hurting over him.
Still, now that they have a plan to put things right and she wants to come clean to Van, I am very eager to see how the final part of this series ends.
ARC gratefully received from the author in exchange for an honest review
February 24, 2015
**3.5 "Happy Dance" Stars**
This series just keeps getting better....fast paced and steamy...I'm dying for book 3!!!
***ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review***
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
This series just keeps getting better....fast paced and steamy...I'm dying for book 3!!!
***ARC received from author in exchange for an honest review***
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
October 7, 2015
When Jade pushes Cory to either steal from the one man that gives her hope - that makes her feel like there is more out there for her, she has to make a choice. A choice that isn't really a choice at all, not when Jade ensures that she has Cory's full attention. But walking away from Van isn't easy. Breaking his trust is even harder.
Part two packed quite the punch. I hated Jade and felt so horribly torn, wanting Cory to come clean and let Van fix everything but not wanting her to take the risk of Jade making good on her threats. This short read was filled with action and sexy times! Van was this perfect, laid back guy that was intense, but still so down to earth.
And of course, part three could not wait - who needs sleep anyways, right?
Part two packed quite the punch. I hated Jade and felt so horribly torn, wanting Cory to come clean and let Van fix everything but not wanting her to take the risk of Jade making good on her threats. This short read was filled with action and sexy times! Van was this perfect, laid back guy that was intense, but still so down to earth.
And of course, part three could not wait - who needs sleep anyways, right?
March 20, 2015
Hardcore Series by Staci Hart
Hardcore Volume 1 ~ 4.5 stars!!
Hardcore Volume 2 ~ 4 stars!!
Hardcore Volume 3 ~ 4 stars!!
From the moment I started reading Volume 1 I fell in love with this series and once you start reading you really begin to understand just how damn perfect the covers are. I have never come across a book about Parkour or base running as it is known and the way the author describes the activity was absolutely breath taking. I felt the thrill of the run and with the added vivid descriptions and imagery your heart couldn’t help but thump, thump, thump.
By day Cory is a bike messenger, but this is more as a smoke screen because by night she is part of a team of thieves who target electrical stores. These thieves are like no other, they have their MO down a pat and by using Parkour as a means of escape are virtually undetectable and cannot be followed.
Cory was a beautiful character inside and out despite her nocturnal activities. Cory had been running all her life, never feeling loved or fitting in at home, just merely surviving until she was old enough to get out. She always felt like a mistake and her parents made sure she knew it. Cory had nothing to live for until her sister was born and then she became everything. Determined not to let her sister live the life that she had Cory does what she does so that her sister can have the life she didn’t. Cory pays for everything for her sister including her education, hence the activities that she currently finds herself doing.
One night while running from their latest heist the crew are all being chased by another gang of Parkours, Cory is really good but the guy on her tail is even better. He eventually runs her down thoroughly impressed by how far and for how long she managed to evade him. With the adrenaline running high these two have one hell of a “on top of a building scene,” seriously hot!! But one time will never be enough and once their paths cross again, neither will be able to look back.
Van Collins is a professional photographer and has used his love of Parkour to get some out of this world shots that have elevated him to super stardom, insanely rich, he cannot believe that he has found the perfect woman. Someone that gets him, someone that loves Parkour as much as he does, someone that is just as good at it too and someone that he shares some intense chemistry with.
Knowing the company that Cory keeps you know that the fact he is insanely rich is going to cause problems and when Cory is blackmailed to betray him, huge choices and sacrifices are made.
I loved the plot of this story, all the characters had their place and reason for being and all played a massive part in this tale. As I said above the way the Parkour is described has you salivating and if I wasn’t my age or build it is something I wouldn’t mind trying…well actually being afraid of heights probably not, but if I didn’t have a fear of heights this is something I would definitely want to do. Seeing a city from a totally different angle than anyone else, the peace and quiet, the burn of the chase, the adrenaline rush all these factors so vividly described that I lived this series.
The romance side between Cory and Van had me swooning, neither character had really opened themselves up to love before and you could really feel their chemistry. From that first scene, you knew what they shared was powerful and I couldn’t help but champion these two along. Just a note Cory was bi before she met Van and there is one small F/F scene in the first book.
You certainly find out who your friends are the hard way and this is no different for Cory, I loved the way that the good ones stuck together and helped each other out when times got bad. This is a book about friendships and family, betrayal, forgiveness, second chances and living life to the max. This book is also about love, how when you find “the one” you know and will do anything and everything to make it happen even if your heart rules over your head.
This was my first Staci Hart read and it certainly won’t be last. Cannot wait to read what else this author has written. If this serial is anything to go by, I am in for a treat.
www.theromancecover.com
Hardcore Volume 1 ~ 4.5 stars!!
Hardcore Volume 2 ~ 4 stars!!
Hardcore Volume 3 ~ 4 stars!!
“Don’t run from me. Run with me.”
From the moment I started reading Volume 1 I fell in love with this series and once you start reading you really begin to understand just how damn perfect the covers are. I have never come across a book about Parkour or base running as it is known and the way the author describes the activity was absolutely breath taking. I felt the thrill of the run and with the added vivid descriptions and imagery your heart couldn’t help but thump, thump, thump.
By day Cory is a bike messenger, but this is more as a smoke screen because by night she is part of a team of thieves who target electrical stores. These thieves are like no other, they have their MO down a pat and by using Parkour as a means of escape are virtually undetectable and cannot be followed.
Cory was a beautiful character inside and out despite her nocturnal activities. Cory had been running all her life, never feeling loved or fitting in at home, just merely surviving until she was old enough to get out. She always felt like a mistake and her parents made sure she knew it. Cory had nothing to live for until her sister was born and then she became everything. Determined not to let her sister live the life that she had Cory does what she does so that her sister can have the life she didn’t. Cory pays for everything for her sister including her education, hence the activities that she currently finds herself doing.
“What are you running from? My answer: Everything.”
One night while running from their latest heist the crew are all being chased by another gang of Parkours, Cory is really good but the guy on her tail is even better. He eventually runs her down thoroughly impressed by how far and for how long she managed to evade him. With the adrenaline running high these two have one hell of a “on top of a building scene,” seriously hot!! But one time will never be enough and once their paths cross again, neither will be able to look back.
“His body was a silhouette against the lights of the buildings that stretched up around us. He was a god or a superhero, something out of a myth or legend, too good to be true. Too good to be mine.”
Van Collins is a professional photographer and has used his love of Parkour to get some out of this world shots that have elevated him to super stardom, insanely rich, he cannot believe that he has found the perfect woman. Someone that gets him, someone that loves Parkour as much as he does, someone that is just as good at it too and someone that he shares some intense chemistry with.
Knowing the company that Cory keeps you know that the fact he is insanely rich is going to cause problems and when Cory is blackmailed to betray him, huge choices and sacrifices are made.
“You don’t know anything, Van. If you did, you’d never want me. That’s the honest truth.”
I loved the plot of this story, all the characters had their place and reason for being and all played a massive part in this tale. As I said above the way the Parkour is described has you salivating and if I wasn’t my age or build it is something I wouldn’t mind trying…well actually being afraid of heights probably not, but if I didn’t have a fear of heights this is something I would definitely want to do. Seeing a city from a totally different angle than anyone else, the peace and quiet, the burn of the chase, the adrenaline rush all these factors so vividly described that I lived this series.
The romance side between Cory and Van had me swooning, neither character had really opened themselves up to love before and you could really feel their chemistry. From that first scene, you knew what they shared was powerful and I couldn’t help but champion these two along. Just a note Cory was bi before she met Van and there is one small F/F scene in the first book.
“…how I feel about you, how you feel about yourself. I wanted you to fill that space on my wall. In my heart. In my life.”
You certainly find out who your friends are the hard way and this is no different for Cory, I loved the way that the good ones stuck together and helped each other out when times got bad. This is a book about friendships and family, betrayal, forgiveness, second chances and living life to the max. This book is also about love, how when you find “the one” you know and will do anything and everything to make it happen even if your heart rules over your head.
You’re good, Cory. Even when you’re bad.”
This was my first Staci Hart read and it certainly won’t be last. Cannot wait to read what else this author has written. If this serial is anything to go by, I am in for a treat.
www.theromancecover.com
February 24, 2015
If I thought Volume 1 was awesome, Volume 2 was STELLAR! Will she? Won't she? What will Cory decide??? HARDCORE is just that, hardcore. Tough decisions, anticipation, and intense emotion. I felt it all in this volume.
The choice was made before she even decided what to do. The problem now is that the lines aren't so simple anymore. Cory feels a deeper connection to Van and her conscious is tearing her apart. I really felt like I saw Cory make some significant growth in this volume. She's at an in between and it's time for her to sink to Jade's level of low or become the person she is in her heart. Van does that to her. He's a good man and I think he helps her see that she's worth more. Am I analyzing this too much? Maybe, but that's what I saw and that's why I found myself even deeper submerged into this tale.
On to the goods. Van. The sexy times were still pretty darn sexy, but there was an even stronger connection this time. There was much more emotion, because, well obviously...their feelings for each other are growing. Van wants more. He wants all of her. And really, she wants to give it to him, but she's just not sure how at this point. Then, the ultimate decision needs to be made.
I found myself flipping through this one. I think I read it even faster than I did the first one. You know when you keep tapping the last page and it just stops? IT WON'T MOVE! Yeah, I think that was the first time in a while I actually yelled out loud "NO!". I think you get the idea, I kinda love this story and I'm absolutely dying to see how it all turns out. Go get this series. You won't regret it!
Quote:
"You said we were made of the same metal, but we're not. You're gold, and I'm brass. Just let me go. There's nothing lost here, Van. You and I are nothing."-Loc 315
"You have to trust the people who love you, Cory. That's part of what love is. And if your honesty pushes someone away, then they didn't love you in the first place."-Loc 511
I looked back one last time, taking in every detail, the slope of his shoulders, the silhouette of his body against the trail of color in the sky, and then I vaulted the ledge, leaving him behind.-Loc 590
The choice was made before she even decided what to do. The problem now is that the lines aren't so simple anymore. Cory feels a deeper connection to Van and her conscious is tearing her apart. I really felt like I saw Cory make some significant growth in this volume. She's at an in between and it's time for her to sink to Jade's level of low or become the person she is in her heart. Van does that to her. He's a good man and I think he helps her see that she's worth more. Am I analyzing this too much? Maybe, but that's what I saw and that's why I found myself even deeper submerged into this tale.
On to the goods. Van. The sexy times were still pretty darn sexy, but there was an even stronger connection this time. There was much more emotion, because, well obviously...their feelings for each other are growing. Van wants more. He wants all of her. And really, she wants to give it to him, but she's just not sure how at this point. Then, the ultimate decision needs to be made.
I found myself flipping through this one. I think I read it even faster than I did the first one. You know when you keep tapping the last page and it just stops? IT WON'T MOVE! Yeah, I think that was the first time in a while I actually yelled out loud "NO!". I think you get the idea, I kinda love this story and I'm absolutely dying to see how it all turns out. Go get this series. You won't regret it!
Quote:
"You said we were made of the same metal, but we're not. You're gold, and I'm brass. Just let me go. There's nothing lost here, Van. You and I are nothing."-Loc 315
"You have to trust the people who love you, Cory. That's part of what love is. And if your honesty pushes someone away, then they didn't love you in the first place."-Loc 511
I looked back one last time, taking in every detail, the slope of his shoulders, the silhouette of his body against the trail of color in the sky, and then I vaulted the ledge, leaving him behind.-Loc 590
February 25, 2015
While Vol. 1 did the job to fuck with my mind, Vol. 2 has without a doubt fucked with my heart. UGH, the feels! I was left a sobbing mess after reading this one and my nerves were completely shot.
Once again Staci Hart does an amazing job. This story picks up exactly where Vol. 1 ended. Some secrets are revealed, loyalties tested as we watch not only one but two people's hearts shatter.
All I can do now is sit back and twiddle my thumbs as I wait for the ultimate moment of truth that will be revealed to us in what I expect to be an epic conclusion in this mini series; Vol. 3.
Staci, you're fucking brilliant woman! Ugh I hate you but yet I love you <3.
"I was a reflection of myself. The cold blues. The heavy red, pooled like blood at the bottom. Hot and cold. Good and bad. Love and pain."
* ARC kindly provided for an honest review. *
February 24, 2015
My heart! It is racing from the steaminess. Racing from the action. Racing because I NEED VOLUME THREE RIGHT NOW! This series is so fast and intriguing, I love everything about it. There is not a page that I was not entertained in one way...or another. It kept my undivided attention from the first page to the last in one sitting.
"Everything was wrong and right, f--ked up and perfect, all at the same time."
My heart ached for Cory AND Van. Their desire for each other came on extremely fast in Hardcore: Volume One. This time, Cory is forced to step away and..well...you have to read it! There is so much passion, hatred, adventure and lust.
"...I would survive. I just didn't know if I wanted to anymore."
"No matter how bad things got, at least there was always chocolate."
No greater truth was ever spoken. ~ Krissy, 5 ( Van-tastic ) stars
"Everything was wrong and right, f--ked up and perfect, all at the same time."
My heart ached for Cory AND Van. Their desire for each other came on extremely fast in Hardcore: Volume One. This time, Cory is forced to step away and..well...you have to read it! There is so much passion, hatred, adventure and lust.
"...I would survive. I just didn't know if I wanted to anymore."
"No matter how bad things got, at least there was always chocolate."
No greater truth was ever spoken. ~ Krissy, 5 ( Van-tastic ) stars
February 24, 2015
Where do I begin when my heart is all over the place? My palms are sweaty, my eyes are teary and I feel like I have been swept into an alternative world where I am only allowed to feel. Staci Hart took my breath away, painted my heart in hues of red as she made tears run down my cheeks. I don't know how she did it, but she surpassed Hardcore Vol.1 without a backwards glance.
This is a story full of so many emotions, so much anxiety, angst, agony and pain that I wondered how she was able to fit it all in less than 80 pages. It didn't feel like a short story, I felt like I was getting so much more than what she physically gave us because she broke me down mentally and emotionally.
"I saw everything in his eyes that could have been, everything I would lose as he set me down, held me close. And for that moment, we existed in our own universe, caught in our own gravity."
Van, you still screw like a porn star even heart broken... and I love you more for loving her when she ripped not only your heart out but hers too. You are a sweetie, and I love your sensitive side just as much as I love your possessive side when you lose control.
"We came together with a cry, lungs frozen, hearts broken."
Cor, hun ugh I don't know how I feel towards you. I felt all your pain, every emotion as my own. I would be lying if I sat here and said I didn't cry because I did. Not once, but twice. At the same time I wanted to grab you and shake the shit out of you. Slap you around a couple of times to get you to see that you do deserve love and happiness, and that you are good enough. Other times I wanted to sit on a couch and eat ice cream with you while we watch romantic comedies to lighten the mood. Experiencing this journey with you has definitely been a roller coaster ride!
"Maybe it was that I’d finally opened that forgotten window to my heart and let in an emotional avalanche. Maybe it was the fact that he was the closest thing to perfect that I’d ever known, or that he made me want to be more than I was. Or maybe it was the realization that in another life, we might have had a chance to be together, a chance we wouldn’t have in this one."
I am excited to see where the final installment to this emotionally altering love story will take us. Before I go, might I add that Staci Hart will make you question your sexuality when it comes f/f because BOOM.BAM.POW, she delivers!
Now to eat ice cream in hopes of the yummy coldness relieving the physical ache I have in my heart.
"It was a reflection of myself. The cold blues. The heavy red, pooled like blood at the bottom. Hot and cold. Good and bad. Love and pain."
This is a story full of so many emotions, so much anxiety, angst, agony and pain that I wondered how she was able to fit it all in less than 80 pages. It didn't feel like a short story, I felt like I was getting so much more than what she physically gave us because she broke me down mentally and emotionally.
"I saw everything in his eyes that could have been, everything I would lose as he set me down, held me close. And for that moment, we existed in our own universe, caught in our own gravity."
Van, you still screw like a porn star even heart broken... and I love you more for loving her when she ripped not only your heart out but hers too. You are a sweetie, and I love your sensitive side just as much as I love your possessive side when you lose control.
"We came together with a cry, lungs frozen, hearts broken."
Cor, hun ugh I don't know how I feel towards you. I felt all your pain, every emotion as my own. I would be lying if I sat here and said I didn't cry because I did. Not once, but twice. At the same time I wanted to grab you and shake the shit out of you. Slap you around a couple of times to get you to see that you do deserve love and happiness, and that you are good enough. Other times I wanted to sit on a couch and eat ice cream with you while we watch romantic comedies to lighten the mood. Experiencing this journey with you has definitely been a roller coaster ride!
"Maybe it was that I’d finally opened that forgotten window to my heart and let in an emotional avalanche. Maybe it was the fact that he was the closest thing to perfect that I’d ever known, or that he made me want to be more than I was. Or maybe it was the realization that in another life, we might have had a chance to be together, a chance we wouldn’t have in this one."
I am excited to see where the final installment to this emotionally altering love story will take us. Before I go, might I add that Staci Hart will make you question your sexuality when it comes f/f because BOOM.BAM.POW, she delivers!
Now to eat ice cream in hopes of the yummy coldness relieving the physical ache I have in my heart.
"It was a reflection of myself. The cold blues. The heavy red, pooled like blood at the bottom. Hot and cold. Good and bad. Love and pain."
February 25, 2015
Shel: I deliberately avoiding reading Volume 2 of this series for a while. Why? Because I knew, just knew, it would be impossible to put down and I'd immediately want to read Volume 3. I was right. I want Volume 3 now.
Court: I agree. I can't wait for the final installment, because this series is so rockin' I devoured it. We devoured it. Hear me clearly: devoured. It is so good. There's action, and angst, and sex. The parkour aspect is still just as present and fun.
Shel: I have no idea how in the hell Staci Hart is going to be able to end this in one final volume because I'm nowhere near ready for this story to end, but I have every confidence that she'll do something amazing. Court: I keep trying to figure out where things will go...but I can't! And that is good. And bad. Because I am so nervous for how things ended. I mean, Holy crap you guys. HOLY CRAP! Things ended after an intense many pages, but they were awesomely intense. Awesomely isn't a word is it. Crap.
Shel: In volume 2 of this series, poor Cory has to make a choice between two craptastic options and really? we all know she's going to choose her sister. What I wasn't prepared for is what happened next. Court: Damn. I know. I wasn't either. I love Cory's character still so much, because she is so loyal. She weighs all options, but she also doesn't like to be pushed around. She's in a corner. How will she get out!!!
Shel: I loved what Staci Hart plotted for Cory. I also loved that Morgan, Erin, and Cher were TEAM CORY. I felt awful for Van and I loved how Jill was exactly the kind of sister I wanted her to be. And Jade? Well, I have a feeling she's not quite finished with this story yet...but what a fucking bitch. Court: I do love the girls she lives with. Except for Jade. You're right. That fucking bitch needs pushed off a building when they're jumping around doing what they do. I love Van and Jill, because they're the perfect goodness to all of Cory's self imposed badness.
Shel: This novella series has been fun. It's something fresh and unexpected and I am now trying to carve out time to go back and read all of Staci Hart's other works...her stories are engrossing and make the entire world disappear when I start them; I cannot read what she writes next. Court: Yes! What did I just say to you earlier..."I'm so glad you found this author." So, everyone. Check out Staci Hart. Her writing is wonderful, her characters are engaging, and I too canot wait to read the rest of what she's got....because we do love, love, love what she's got!
Court: I agree. I can't wait for the final installment, because this series is so rockin' I devoured it. We devoured it. Hear me clearly: devoured. It is so good. There's action, and angst, and sex. The parkour aspect is still just as present and fun.
Shel: I have no idea how in the hell Staci Hart is going to be able to end this in one final volume because I'm nowhere near ready for this story to end, but I have every confidence that she'll do something amazing. Court: I keep trying to figure out where things will go...but I can't! And that is good. And bad. Because I am so nervous for how things ended. I mean, Holy crap you guys. HOLY CRAP! Things ended after an intense many pages, but they were awesomely intense. Awesomely isn't a word is it. Crap.
Shel: In volume 2 of this series, poor Cory has to make a choice between two craptastic options and really? we all know she's going to choose her sister. What I wasn't prepared for is what happened next. Court: Damn. I know. I wasn't either. I love Cory's character still so much, because she is so loyal. She weighs all options, but she also doesn't like to be pushed around. She's in a corner. How will she get out!!!
Shel: I loved what Staci Hart plotted for Cory. I also loved that Morgan, Erin, and Cher were TEAM CORY. I felt awful for Van and I loved how Jill was exactly the kind of sister I wanted her to be. And Jade? Well, I have a feeling she's not quite finished with this story yet...but what a fucking bitch. Court: I do love the girls she lives with. Except for Jade. You're right. That fucking bitch needs pushed off a building when they're jumping around doing what they do. I love Van and Jill, because they're the perfect goodness to all of Cory's self imposed badness.
Shel: This novella series has been fun. It's something fresh and unexpected and I am now trying to carve out time to go back and read all of Staci Hart's other works...her stories are engrossing and make the entire world disappear when I start them; I cannot read what she writes next. Court: Yes! What did I just say to you earlier..."I'm so glad you found this author." So, everyone. Check out Staci Hart. Her writing is wonderful, her characters are engaging, and I too canot wait to read the rest of what she's got....because we do love, love, love what she's got!
February 24, 2015
"You’re making the choice for him because you’re scared, and that’s not fair to either of you.”
When this part begins Jade has done the unthinkable and threatened Cory’s sister if she doesn’t co-operate in robbing Van. So of course Cory does the only thing she has done her entire life and put her needs and desires aside so that her little sister can have the life she never did. Cory is sad and depressed, for the first time in a long time she felt a real connection to another person, someone she thought really understood her and in order to do what needs to be done she must lie and betray him.
“His fingers touched my chin, lifting it as he brought his lips to mine in a way that healed and broke me all at once.”
For fear of giving too much away, with this being a serial and short that is a concern of mine, I will not dwell on the plot too much. The highlight of this book is the fact that it is a fast paced and urban story in a time when so many romances are not. For me this story feels unique and fresh and unlike any book I have read before.
“Everything was wrong and right, fucked up and perfect, all at the same time.”
Cory is a take charge heroine who won’t put up with people who have wronged her. Van is hip and cool and doesn’t flaunt his wealth. He doesn’t care how different the worlds he and Cory come from are only that he finally found someone who gets him. Cory has built up so many walls around herself and basically only lives to provide for her sister that it is near impossible for her to really let him in.
“We were over, and I would never be the same again.”
I do want to mention that while this serial is very sexy it is not overwhelming to the story as I find many serials are. The balance between lust and drama is just the right mix to make a story that I can’t put down. There is a F/F scene in this installment as well and while this does not bother me I do understand it is not everyone’s cup of tea so I want to mention it.
“People don’t change. They’re only revealed.”
Overall, I think Staci is doing a great job of weaving a tale that I am excited to see to completion. Anyone who is a fan of sexy, fast paced stories with exciting and twisting plots will enjoy this series.
~miranda
When this part begins Jade has done the unthinkable and threatened Cory’s sister if she doesn’t co-operate in robbing Van. So of course Cory does the only thing she has done her entire life and put her needs and desires aside so that her little sister can have the life she never did. Cory is sad and depressed, for the first time in a long time she felt a real connection to another person, someone she thought really understood her and in order to do what needs to be done she must lie and betray him.
“His fingers touched my chin, lifting it as he brought his lips to mine in a way that healed and broke me all at once.”
For fear of giving too much away, with this being a serial and short that is a concern of mine, I will not dwell on the plot too much. The highlight of this book is the fact that it is a fast paced and urban story in a time when so many romances are not. For me this story feels unique and fresh and unlike any book I have read before.
“Everything was wrong and right, fucked up and perfect, all at the same time.”
Cory is a take charge heroine who won’t put up with people who have wronged her. Van is hip and cool and doesn’t flaunt his wealth. He doesn’t care how different the worlds he and Cory come from are only that he finally found someone who gets him. Cory has built up so many walls around herself and basically only lives to provide for her sister that it is near impossible for her to really let him in.
“We were over, and I would never be the same again.”
I do want to mention that while this serial is very sexy it is not overwhelming to the story as I find many serials are. The balance between lust and drama is just the right mix to make a story that I can’t put down. There is a F/F scene in this installment as well and while this does not bother me I do understand it is not everyone’s cup of tea so I want to mention it.
“People don’t change. They’re only revealed.”
Overall, I think Staci is doing a great job of weaving a tale that I am excited to see to completion. Anyone who is a fan of sexy, fast paced stories with exciting and twisting plots will enjoy this series.
~miranda
February 24, 2015
“Everything was wrong and right, fucked up and perfect, all at the same time.”
This quote perfectly sums up Cory James’ circumstances in volume 2 of Staci Hart’s serial, Hardcore.
In Volume 1, Cory was able to keep her two worlds separate – as a thief, she does what she needs to do to support her sister, but her sister’s life is never tainted with her methods of assistance. But now that Jade has pulled Cory’s two worlds together by threatening her sister’s life and her new relationship with Van – a man with similar interests and someone she sees herself giving her heart to – Cory has to risk everything to protect her sister when the first thing that means is betraying Van and ending something that she wanted so much to have just for herself.
The biggest aspect at play in Volume 2 is the idea of loyalty. Cory’s allegiance is first and foremost to her sister, but she also has a bond with her group of thieving friends as well as to the man she barely knows but who sets her heart on fire. There’s a conflict of interest in where her loyalty lies because she can’t remain devoted to all of them – they are in direct opposition to each other with what Jade is blackmailing her into doing, so Cory has to make a choice and hope that she can live with the repercussions of her actions.
Staci Hart does a great job of showing readers Cory’s emotional upheaval as she figures out what the best course of action is; it’s a struggle to give up the one thing that she has ever really wanted for herself but she doesn’t see a way out and that’s destroying her.
The idea of someone choosing to do the wrong things for all the right reasons absolutely applies to Cory’s situation, and with where Volume 2 ends, it will be interesting to see the fallout from Cory’s decisions in the conclusion to her story.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
This quote perfectly sums up Cory James’ circumstances in volume 2 of Staci Hart’s serial, Hardcore.
In Volume 1, Cory was able to keep her two worlds separate – as a thief, she does what she needs to do to support her sister, but her sister’s life is never tainted with her methods of assistance. But now that Jade has pulled Cory’s two worlds together by threatening her sister’s life and her new relationship with Van – a man with similar interests and someone she sees herself giving her heart to – Cory has to risk everything to protect her sister when the first thing that means is betraying Van and ending something that she wanted so much to have just for herself.
The biggest aspect at play in Volume 2 is the idea of loyalty. Cory’s allegiance is first and foremost to her sister, but she also has a bond with her group of thieving friends as well as to the man she barely knows but who sets her heart on fire. There’s a conflict of interest in where her loyalty lies because she can’t remain devoted to all of them – they are in direct opposition to each other with what Jade is blackmailing her into doing, so Cory has to make a choice and hope that she can live with the repercussions of her actions.
Staci Hart does a great job of showing readers Cory’s emotional upheaval as she figures out what the best course of action is; it’s a struggle to give up the one thing that she has ever really wanted for herself but she doesn’t see a way out and that’s destroying her.
The idea of someone choosing to do the wrong things for all the right reasons absolutely applies to Cory’s situation, and with where Volume 2 ends, it will be interesting to see the fallout from Cory’s decisions in the conclusion to her story.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
March 6, 2015
Review for Hardcore Volume Two by Staci Hart
par·kour
pärˈko͝or/
noun
noun: parkour; noun: parcour; plural noun: parcours
1 the activity or sport of moving rapidly through an area, typically in an urban environment, negotiating obstacles by running, jumping, and climbing.
I normally wouldn’t start my reviews with a vocabulary lesson, but I think the definition perfectly describes this book and for those people who don’t know what parkour is … well now you do.
I LOVED book one of this serial. I was so disappointed when I got to the end and basically begged for an ARC of volume two because waiting is not a strong suit of mine. I still firmly believe that Hardcore is a stand-out among the type of erotic serials that are out there right now. It’s a hybrid story of sorts; sports, crime, and erotic romance all perfectly meshed together to make one unforgettable storyline.
A lot of reviewers will rehash the plot and characters, but because this is a novella I don’t want to give you even those small spoilers. What I will tell you is the character development is spot on, I instantly connected with Cory. She’s one of those that you can’t help but root for even as you want shake her a little. Van was the same way for me… instant connection and the fire between him and Cory was off the charts from the first moment they met.
Hardcore Volume Two falls in line with the fast pace that was started in Volume One, and just like with the first I didn’t put this one down until I got to the end and once I got there I immediately wanted Volume Three. Absolute FIVE star read for Staci Hart’s Hardcore serial, an intense journey into the world of parkour, crime, and lust … or love?
Review by the Miranda at Mommy’s a Book Whore.
par·kour
pärˈko͝or/
noun
noun: parkour; noun: parcour; plural noun: parcours
1 the activity or sport of moving rapidly through an area, typically in an urban environment, negotiating obstacles by running, jumping, and climbing.
I normally wouldn’t start my reviews with a vocabulary lesson, but I think the definition perfectly describes this book and for those people who don’t know what parkour is … well now you do.
I LOVED book one of this serial. I was so disappointed when I got to the end and basically begged for an ARC of volume two because waiting is not a strong suit of mine. I still firmly believe that Hardcore is a stand-out among the type of erotic serials that are out there right now. It’s a hybrid story of sorts; sports, crime, and erotic romance all perfectly meshed together to make one unforgettable storyline.
A lot of reviewers will rehash the plot and characters, but because this is a novella I don’t want to give you even those small spoilers. What I will tell you is the character development is spot on, I instantly connected with Cory. She’s one of those that you can’t help but root for even as you want shake her a little. Van was the same way for me… instant connection and the fire between him and Cory was off the charts from the first moment they met.
Hardcore Volume Two falls in line with the fast pace that was started in Volume One, and just like with the first I didn’t put this one down until I got to the end and once I got there I immediately wanted Volume Three. Absolute FIVE star read for Staci Hart’s Hardcore serial, an intense journey into the world of parkour, crime, and lust … or love?
Review by the Miranda at Mommy’s a Book Whore.
April 11, 2015
Last night, I ended up reading both Volume Two and Volume Three of Hardcore, so because I'm going to have trouble separating my review of the last 2/3rds of the series, I'm just going to do one combined review and post it under both Volume Two and Volume Three. Because of that, this may contain minor spoilers for Volume Two, so just keep that in mind.
After finishing Volume One, I wrote a pretty much rave review of it, and gave it four stars. I was so excited to get to the next two parts, and they were almost as good as I was anticipating. Now that I've read all three volumes, I would definitely say that the first one was my favorite, and then I'd probably give the second part a 3.5, with the third part getting 3 stars.
My biggest problem with this series is that I just could not connect with the relationship between Cory and Van. They weren't actually together that much throughout the story, and instead spent most of the time pining away for each other and reminiscing about the few short moments they'd had. Their instant connection was unbelievable and unrealistic in my opinion. I couldn't understand why they just couldn't forget each other and move on...what about their initial time spent together was so unbelievable that they would go through so much so that they could be boyfriend and girlfriend.
Even their sex, to me, was only so-so. I really liked the ice cream scene, but all of the others were instantly forgettable.
I think that I also had a problem understanding Cory and Van because I was totally shipping Cory and Erin the whole time. They were so freaking cute together! I didn't really get their whole "friends with benefits" relationship, because it seemed like they were clearly so much more. I mean, for God's sake, the two slept in the same bed together every night, even when they weren't having sex, and Erin cleans up Cory's puke and wakes her up every two hours after she gets a concussion. I mean, for crying out loud, if that's not LOVE, than I don't know what is.
So, yeah, this series was kind of a disappointment in that way. I'm still kind of pissed that Cory and Erin never realized how in denial they were about their feelings for each other. I would have loved the fuck out of that story.
Another thing that did kind of bother me about this series was how there were multiple characters who were revealed to be completely irredeemable. It's a book pet peeve of mine when characters are 100% evil and no further depth or understanding of them is ever revealed by the author. I just have a hard time wrapping my brain around those kinds of characters, because I really do believe that most of those kinds of people in real life have more to themselves than that. There's two sides to every story, and in Hardcore we really only get the one.
But, regardless, the Hardcore series was still pretty awesome. The romance aspect of it was really only a small part of the story, with much of the time being focused instead on the complicated relationship between the girls, their thieving and how it affected the characters, and the close bond between Cory and her sister.
Like I said in my review of Volume One, I LOVED how parkour was a huge part of this story. Hart wrote those scenes so well, and that aspect never went downhill as the series went on.
Overall, Hardcore was just a really exciting, entertaining, fast-paced read that I very much enjoyed reading. I would definitely read other books by this author in the future, and I'm so glad that I decided to pick these little volumes up.
After finishing Volume One, I wrote a pretty much rave review of it, and gave it four stars. I was so excited to get to the next two parts, and they were almost as good as I was anticipating. Now that I've read all three volumes, I would definitely say that the first one was my favorite, and then I'd probably give the second part a 3.5, with the third part getting 3 stars.
My biggest problem with this series is that I just could not connect with the relationship between Cory and Van. They weren't actually together that much throughout the story, and instead spent most of the time pining away for each other and reminiscing about the few short moments they'd had. Their instant connection was unbelievable and unrealistic in my opinion. I couldn't understand why they just couldn't forget each other and move on...what about their initial time spent together was so unbelievable that they would go through so much so that they could be boyfriend and girlfriend.
Even their sex, to me, was only so-so. I really liked the ice cream scene, but all of the others were instantly forgettable.
I think that I also had a problem understanding Cory and Van because I was totally shipping Cory and Erin the whole time. They were so freaking cute together! I didn't really get their whole "friends with benefits" relationship, because it seemed like they were clearly so much more. I mean, for God's sake, the two slept in the same bed together every night, even when they weren't having sex, and Erin cleans up Cory's puke and wakes her up every two hours after she gets a concussion. I mean, for crying out loud, if that's not LOVE, than I don't know what is.
So, yeah, this series was kind of a disappointment in that way. I'm still kind of pissed that Cory and Erin never realized how in denial they were about their feelings for each other. I would have loved the fuck out of that story.
Another thing that did kind of bother me about this series was how there were multiple characters who were revealed to be completely irredeemable. It's a book pet peeve of mine when characters are 100% evil and no further depth or understanding of them is ever revealed by the author. I just have a hard time wrapping my brain around those kinds of characters, because I really do believe that most of those kinds of people in real life have more to themselves than that. There's two sides to every story, and in Hardcore we really only get the one.
But, regardless, the Hardcore series was still pretty awesome. The romance aspect of it was really only a small part of the story, with much of the time being focused instead on the complicated relationship between the girls, their thieving and how it affected the characters, and the close bond between Cory and her sister.
Like I said in my review of Volume One, I LOVED how parkour was a huge part of this story. Hart wrote those scenes so well, and that aspect never went downhill as the series went on.
Overall, Hardcore was just a really exciting, entertaining, fast-paced read that I very much enjoyed reading. I would definitely read other books by this author in the future, and I'm so glad that I decided to pick these little volumes up.
March 1, 2015
4.75 Stars!
If you skim reviews: If you like a story about redemption, solid writing, and solid banter, then give this a shot. Be warned, it is an intense emotional rollercoaster picking up right where Hardcore Volume One Hardcore 1 left off. Lots of ISH is going on, but it's a fast paced read!
*****J’adore/Nous Adorons: World-changing, we could not put it down even if we dared to try. And, we might just read it again. We would recommend it to anyone.
I have TONS of love for Staci's writing. First off, that was so incredibly heart breaking. For Real. It wasn't like I didn't already see it happening, but damn! rip my heart out.
1. Characters: "Do we care?". HECK YES, WE CARE! Cory is just doing what she can to save her sister and deal with shattering her own heart. I mean for real. Jade is a flipping psycho. Van is just... He's just basically perfect.. I just want to pick him up and keep his manliness in my pocket.
Development. Because we have read Hardcore Volume One Hardcore 1 We are are basically losing our minds. I feel like everything that Van and Cory are feeling. #SOMANYFEELS We get to further see how Cory views herself as well as how she is forced to play the hand dealt to her by Jade.
Fuck that bitch, but really.
Relationships between characters. Staci really knows how to show character dynamics. It was cool to see the relationships between Erin & Cory because it's so unique. It's very much the "friends with benefits, no strings attached, but best friends" scenario. It blows when: AFTER . Jill & Cory: Jill is basically Cory's motivation for everything in life. She is the ultimate big sister...basically stepping into that maternal role. The love she has for her is stunning and beautiful. Cory & Van: Two people have never been so better matched. She is so independent and scared of emotions and he just makes it easy for her to begin to fall for him. It's nice that this story isn't one where they are already pledging their undying love for each other, but it's clearly something that could head that way. Cory & Jade:
Fuck Jade.
2. Plot: "World-building" I could easily visualize everything.
"Did it hold our interest?" Yes. There was no skimming for me. Each thing I read from her is better and better. #thatroofscenethough I swear my heart was in my throat and my stomach was in my toes. "Mine." Seriously, Van just blew my mind. VOLUME THREE, WHERE ARE YOU?!.
3. Plausibility: Can we suspend our sense of reality while we read these and still have it make sense? Yeah, of course. Everything is set up really well in Volume One that you can see everything clearly.
4.Pure entertainment value. HC2 will keep you on your toes. It will make you laugh and make you cry. Now all I want is to read Volume 3. Most satisfying cliffhanger. Ever.
Also: Fuck Jade.
Also: I want my happy ending, damn it. Volume 3, please!
If you skim reviews: If you like a story about redemption, solid writing, and solid banter, then give this a shot. Be warned, it is an intense emotional rollercoaster picking up right where Hardcore Volume One Hardcore 1 left off. Lots of ISH is going on, but it's a fast paced read!
*****J’adore/Nous Adorons: World-changing, we could not put it down even if we dared to try. And, we might just read it again. We would recommend it to anyone.
I have TONS of love for Staci's writing. First off, that was so incredibly heart breaking. For Real. It wasn't like I didn't already see it happening, but damn! rip my heart out.
1. Characters: "Do we care?". HECK YES, WE CARE! Cory is just doing what she can to save her sister and deal with shattering her own heart. I mean for real. Jade is a flipping psycho. Van is just... He's just basically perfect.. I just want to pick him up and keep his manliness in my pocket.
Development. Because we have read Hardcore Volume One Hardcore 1 We are are basically losing our minds. I feel like everything that Van and Cory are feeling. #SOMANYFEELS We get to further see how Cory views herself as well as how she is forced to play the hand dealt to her by Jade.
Relationships between characters. Staci really knows how to show character dynamics. It was cool to see the relationships between Erin & Cory because it's so unique. It's very much the "friends with benefits, no strings attached, but best friends" scenario. It blows when: AFTER . Jill & Cory: Jill is basically Cory's motivation for everything in life. She is the ultimate big sister...basically stepping into that maternal role. The love she has for her is stunning and beautiful. Cory & Van: Two people have never been so better matched. She is so independent and scared of emotions and he just makes it easy for her to begin to fall for him. It's nice that this story isn't one where they are already pledging their undying love for each other, but it's clearly something that could head that way. Cory & Jade:
2. Plot: "World-building" I could easily visualize everything.
"Did it hold our interest?" Yes. There was no skimming for me. Each thing I read from her is better and better. #thatroofscenethough I swear my heart was in my throat and my stomach was in my toes. "Mine." Seriously, Van just blew my mind. VOLUME THREE, WHERE ARE YOU?!.
3. Plausibility: Can we suspend our sense of reality while we read these and still have it make sense? Yeah, of course. Everything is set up really well in Volume One that you can see everything clearly.
4.Pure entertainment value. HC2 will keep you on your toes. It will make you laugh and make you cry. Now all I want is to read Volume 3. Most satisfying cliffhanger. Ever.
Also:
Also: I want my happy ending, damn it. Volume 3, please!
March 25, 2015
SNS Rating: 4.5
~~~~~~~~~~Zarah's ★★★★½ Review~~~~~~~~~~
I loved volume 1 and Volume 2 did not disappoint. This story broke me a few times. Another fast paced novel that I didn't want to end and the whole story oozes emotion and tension - I love how Staci writes, totally drawing you in so you feel absolutely everything - Such depth to both the story and the characters! Totally love it.
As a continuation we are back with Cory and Van and Cory stuck in a battle with herself and the blossoming romance with Van and giving in to Jade and Jace (I hate that pair! hate hate hate) while also trying to do the right thing for her sister and struggling to open up the Van. Her relationship with Erin and their mutual comfort in each other comes up gain in this story, if only she could be that free with Van and feel that with him. But i have faith - I cant wait to see how this all ends and cant rave enough about this series.
Be prepared though - it is another cliff hanger
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
The excitement continues! It was such a loving, sweet scene when Van tries to gently convince Corey to explain as to why she was backing away from their relationship. The mystery and the surprising twists keeps the reader hanging on. The interaction between Cory and Van makes one sigh. The most exciting scene was the final heist. Ms. Hart did an excellent job in describing the details. Had me on the edge of my seat, holding my breathe. Must see the next installment!! I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. Five Stars.
~~~~~~~~~~Sharlene's ★★★★✯ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Hardcore Volume 2 is just as good as Volume 1. And just like I thought, I cannot wait for the third installment to finish this story.
Van and Cory's story continues in this installment and once again are trying to figure out what to do with themselves. They are still super hot for one another but Cory just won't let Van all the way in. The characters and dialogue are well developed. I really love Cory but at times want to shake her for being so stubborn and scared. Just do it - tell him! Jade and Jace once again are as vile and evil as they were in the first installment. The story moves along quickly. I had this one read within a couple of hours. Even if it was longer, the way the author tells the story would have kept me interested. I just couldn't wait to see what happened next and to see if the good guys win and the bad guys get caught.
If you want to see if this happens, then go one-click this installment. Keep in mind that you will need to get the first one as well. This is not a stand alone, does not have an HEA (yet) and does have a huge cliffhanger (again).
~~~~~~~~~~Zarah's ★★★★½ Review~~~~~~~~~~
I loved volume 1 and Volume 2 did not disappoint. This story broke me a few times. Another fast paced novel that I didn't want to end and the whole story oozes emotion and tension - I love how Staci writes, totally drawing you in so you feel absolutely everything - Such depth to both the story and the characters! Totally love it.
As a continuation we are back with Cory and Van and Cory stuck in a battle with herself and the blossoming romance with Van and giving in to Jade and Jace (I hate that pair! hate hate hate) while also trying to do the right thing for her sister and struggling to open up the Van. Her relationship with Erin and their mutual comfort in each other comes up gain in this story, if only she could be that free with Van and feel that with him. But i have faith - I cant wait to see how this all ends and cant rave enough about this series.
Be prepared though - it is another cliff hanger
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
The excitement continues! It was such a loving, sweet scene when Van tries to gently convince Corey to explain as to why she was backing away from their relationship. The mystery and the surprising twists keeps the reader hanging on. The interaction between Cory and Van makes one sigh. The most exciting scene was the final heist. Ms. Hart did an excellent job in describing the details. Had me on the edge of my seat, holding my breathe. Must see the next installment!! I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. Five Stars.
~~~~~~~~~~Sharlene's ★★★★✯ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Hardcore Volume 2 is just as good as Volume 1. And just like I thought, I cannot wait for the third installment to finish this story.
Van and Cory's story continues in this installment and once again are trying to figure out what to do with themselves. They are still super hot for one another but Cory just won't let Van all the way in. The characters and dialogue are well developed. I really love Cory but at times want to shake her for being so stubborn and scared. Just do it - tell him! Jade and Jace once again are as vile and evil as they were in the first installment. The story moves along quickly. I had this one read within a couple of hours. Even if it was longer, the way the author tells the story would have kept me interested. I just couldn't wait to see what happened next and to see if the good guys win and the bad guys get caught.
If you want to see if this happens, then go one-click this installment. Keep in mind that you will need to get the first one as well. This is not a stand alone, does not have an HEA (yet) and does have a huge cliffhanger (again).
February 20, 2015
My Review:
Once again I jump into the erotic world of parkour and secrets. Hardcore Vol 2 start with Cory waking up from the cold ground after being beaten by Jade. Knowing that I am not a fan of Erotica this book just has a fantastic story, I don’t mind the sex in this book, it’s done very well and the world build is great. I love her descriptions of parkour not having done it myself but seeing people do it on TV and YouTube I found her descriptions spot on.
A lot of stuff happens in this book and it sets it up nice for the next book. I LOVE this story however I have such a problem with Cory, she has so many issues and I think her negativity is understandable but it gets on my nerves. Jade is just a BITCH, Staci can write an amazing bad girl, one that I wanted to find myself and punch in the face. She brought out an anger in me that I wanted to scream and can’t wait to see if she falls off her high horse. Van is just super sweet and a total set up for disappointment, I feel bad for him, guys like that deserve so much better.
Even with my minor issue still with Cory, I am really enjoying this series for someone that doesn’t read Erotica, I think Staci has done an amazing job in getting me to want to try them some more however she has set the bar kind of high. I am really looking forward to Volume 3 and finding out what will become of Cory and Van.
This review was originally posted on Because reading is better than real life
Once again I jump into the erotic world of parkour and secrets. Hardcore Vol 2 start with Cory waking up from the cold ground after being beaten by Jade. Knowing that I am not a fan of Erotica this book just has a fantastic story, I don’t mind the sex in this book, it’s done very well and the world build is great. I love her descriptions of parkour not having done it myself but seeing people do it on TV and YouTube I found her descriptions spot on.
A lot of stuff happens in this book and it sets it up nice for the next book. I LOVE this story however I have such a problem with Cory, she has so many issues and I think her negativity is understandable but it gets on my nerves. Jade is just a BITCH, Staci can write an amazing bad girl, one that I wanted to find myself and punch in the face. She brought out an anger in me that I wanted to scream and can’t wait to see if she falls off her high horse. Van is just super sweet and a total set up for disappointment, I feel bad for him, guys like that deserve so much better.
Even with my minor issue still with Cory, I am really enjoying this series for someone that doesn’t read Erotica, I think Staci has done an amazing job in getting me to want to try them some more however she has set the bar kind of high. I am really looking forward to Volume 3 and finding out what will become of Cory and Van.
[divider]
Thank you so much for stopping by to check out my review
Hope you have a great day and Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Because reading is better than real life
March 6, 2015
5 Stars|Amazon|Goodreads
Fantastic. I am ADDICTED to this series. Addicted. I need more. I can't express how fantastic Staci's writing is. It is eloquent and descriptive, allowing you to easily immerse yourself and get lost in the story.
We jump right back into this story I was ready tow watch Jade get knocked down a few notches. Sadly, Cory is a better person than I. She does what she needs to do for her family. That doesn't mean it doesn't hurt like heck to have to make that decision. The last thing Cory wants to do is hurt Can, but she has't any other choice.
This novel is full to the brim with excitement and passion. It is also filled with surprises and revelations. You don't want to miss this. Get your fix of Van and watch as things in their world are turned upside down. I don't want to write too much because this volume really does knock your socks off. Don't miss it!
Synopsis:
** Part two of a three part serial **
The choice is steep: Stay on the ledge and steal Van's painting or take the leap and sacrifice her sister. It's another decision in a long line that she's had to make in her life, and though it's easy to make, it's impossible to execute.
Jade won't let Cory go until she gets what she wants, but the price for Cory is high. It's never been hard to steal, to lie, but Van changed all the rules. It was the last thing she wanted to do to him. But as much as that choice is agony, there's really only one to make.
Betrayal and pain. Love and loss. Decisions and consequences. The edge Cory walks is razor sharp and sky high, but she can't look down. Not until she makes it to the other side.
February 15, 2015
I got this for my honest review
Hardcore Volume 2 took off and had me turning pages from the beginning. It starts out with Cory waking up on the floor of the flat and after that she has a lot of big decisions to make. Which are actually easy for her to make because its always protect Jill.. Who happens to be in Jade’s crosshairs unless Cory does this next job.
I picked this book up one night when I had every intention of going to bed early but of course with all the emotional drama that unfolds and the paging turing action I couldn’t put it down. When the job goes down and things got screwed up I was angry at Jade and Jace for putting Cory in that situation. I love that all the other girls come together with Cory and help her try to right the wrong that she had committed even if it was dangerous. And of course I liked that Cory and Jill are getting to know each other better and Jill seems to be very understanding and excepting of Cory and I love this quote from Jill “You have to trust the people who love you, Cory. That’s part of what love is. And if your honesty pushes someone away, then they didn’t love you in the first place.”
I really enjoyed all the characters in this book. Even the other girls which get mentioned here and there are great and have me wondering why they are doing this, and of course there is Erin she’s pretty much Cory’s rock. Always there for her emotionally, physically and just seems to get her.
Can Cory let her walls down and let people in? , will Jade and Jace really let Cory off the hook? Can Cory let Van go and betray him? Will Van just let Cory go?
The emotions and action captures you and keeps the pages turning. Never a dull moment! Of course another cliffhanger ending! If you liked Vol 1 it just keeps getting better! I’m looking forward to the next installment.
Hardcore Volume 2 took off and had me turning pages from the beginning. It starts out with Cory waking up on the floor of the flat and after that she has a lot of big decisions to make. Which are actually easy for her to make because its always protect Jill.. Who happens to be in Jade’s crosshairs unless Cory does this next job.
I picked this book up one night when I had every intention of going to bed early but of course with all the emotional drama that unfolds and the paging turing action I couldn’t put it down. When the job goes down and things got screwed up I was angry at Jade and Jace for putting Cory in that situation. I love that all the other girls come together with Cory and help her try to right the wrong that she had committed even if it was dangerous. And of course I liked that Cory and Jill are getting to know each other better and Jill seems to be very understanding and excepting of Cory and I love this quote from Jill “You have to trust the people who love you, Cory. That’s part of what love is. And if your honesty pushes someone away, then they didn’t love you in the first place.”
I really enjoyed all the characters in this book. Even the other girls which get mentioned here and there are great and have me wondering why they are doing this, and of course there is Erin she’s pretty much Cory’s rock. Always there for her emotionally, physically and just seems to get her.
Can Cory let her walls down and let people in? , will Jade and Jace really let Cory off the hook? Can Cory let Van go and betray him? Will Van just let Cory go?
The emotions and action captures you and keeps the pages turning. Never a dull moment! Of course another cliffhanger ending! If you liked Vol 1 it just keeps getting better! I’m looking forward to the next installment.
March 1, 2015
Another heart pounding installment of Hardcore. I read it in one quick sitting and was then upset because I don't have part three waiting for me.
The stakes are high for Cory, does she do what Jade wants and ruin her heart or does she defy her and possibly ruin her life? I wanted to be mad at Cory for not taking the leap of faith and trust in herself more but I couldn't because given the choice I don't know what I would do. She is left with an impossible choice and does what she thinks is best regardless of what anyone else says.
Cory needs to betray Van and steal his painting to save her sister, but saying good-bye is not as easy as she thought it would be. Through a bunch of twists and turns and steam and running and betrayal and adrenaline rushes we come to the end of this installment WAY too quickly.
I am dying to know what is going to happen...will everything work out or will everything come crashing down. Some times when you walk the line, you fall.
"Everything was wrong and right, fucked up and perfect, all at the same time."
~Jess
The stakes are high for Cory, does she do what Jade wants and ruin her heart or does she defy her and possibly ruin her life? I wanted to be mad at Cory for not taking the leap of faith and trust in herself more but I couldn't because given the choice I don't know what I would do. She is left with an impossible choice and does what she thinks is best regardless of what anyone else says.
Cory needs to betray Van and steal his painting to save her sister, but saying good-bye is not as easy as she thought it would be. Through a bunch of twists and turns and steam and running and betrayal and adrenaline rushes we come to the end of this installment WAY too quickly.
I am dying to know what is going to happen...will everything work out or will everything come crashing down. Some times when you walk the line, you fall.
"Everything was wrong and right, fucked up and perfect, all at the same time."
~Jess
February 25, 2015
✯✯4 Wild Stars!!✯✯
Man oh man! This book was just as crazy, fast paced and hot as the first part was. Being this book was only about 80 pages I'm not going to give too much away because that would not be fair to you.
We pick up exactly where Hardcore: Volume One left off. Cory and Jade are not seeing eye to eye. Jade wants Cory to steal Van's painting that's worth more money then any of them can ever imagine. For the first time in Cory's life she feels something for someone and doesn't want to do that to Van. Jade threatens the only thing that matters to Cory. Jill, Cory's younger sister. Now, Cory has to choice.
Jade doesn't make it easy for Cory either. She plans on being there the whole time so Cory doesn't screw it up. Cory does the only thing she knows how to do. Breaks it off with Van. Van doesn't make it easy for Cory. At all!!
Just when you think you know whats going to happen. Think again. I kid you not when this book ended I screamed! I can not believe she stopped it there. I was so mad. Staci is a evil genius! Hahaha. She takes on this high flying, hot & sexy, what's next ride. Then, just likes that ends it! You will def like this book.
Man oh man! This book was just as crazy, fast paced and hot as the first part was. Being this book was only about 80 pages I'm not going to give too much away because that would not be fair to you.
We pick up exactly where Hardcore: Volume One left off. Cory and Jade are not seeing eye to eye. Jade wants Cory to steal Van's painting that's worth more money then any of them can ever imagine. For the first time in Cory's life she feels something for someone and doesn't want to do that to Van. Jade threatens the only thing that matters to Cory. Jill, Cory's younger sister. Now, Cory has to choice.
Jade doesn't make it easy for Cory either. She plans on being there the whole time so Cory doesn't screw it up. Cory does the only thing she knows how to do. Breaks it off with Van. Van doesn't make it easy for Cory. At all!!
Just when you think you know whats going to happen. Think again. I kid you not when this book ended I screamed! I can not believe she stopped it there. I was so mad. Staci is a evil genius! Hahaha. She takes on this high flying, hot & sexy, what's next ride. Then, just likes that ends it! You will def like this book.
February 24, 2015
Allow me to sum up my feelings about this installment in two simple sentences: Evil authors are evil. -and- Thanks for making me all emotional, you fiend.
Yep, Staci Hart is batting 2 for 2 thus far as Cory's life unravels in the most heartbreaking of ways. For the record, while I still want to kick Jade in the lady parts (that chick is crazy in a way that sends chills down the spine) at least her time as leader of their merry band looks to be falling apart after what she's done to Cory. I'm evil laughing over that right this minute. SERVES YOU RIGHT, CRAZY! Serves.You.Right.
Cory's situation is bleak. From where's she's standing, she has no options. She won't risk her sister and she truly believes Jade will follow through on her threat if Cory backs out. But her heart is breaking over what she has to do to Van and... IT'S HARD TO READ.
I have some seriously mad love for this story. Mad, MAD love. I want to see how it works out, but I FEAR the repercussions of what Cory was forced into. Book three is probably going to gut me. I'm shoring up my defenses now so I don't end up a weeping, miserable mess.
Thanks for making me all emotional, you fiend.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Yep, Staci Hart is batting 2 for 2 thus far as Cory's life unravels in the most heartbreaking of ways. For the record, while I still want to kick Jade in the lady parts (that chick is crazy in a way that sends chills down the spine) at least her time as leader of their merry band looks to be falling apart after what she's done to Cory. I'm evil laughing over that right this minute. SERVES YOU RIGHT, CRAZY! Serves.You.Right.
Cory's situation is bleak. From where's she's standing, she has no options. She won't risk her sister and she truly believes Jade will follow through on her threat if Cory backs out. But her heart is breaking over what she has to do to Van and... IT'S HARD TO READ.
I have some seriously mad love for this story. Mad, MAD love. I want to see how it works out, but I FEAR the repercussions of what Cory was forced into. Book three is probably going to gut me. I'm shoring up my defenses now so I don't end up a weeping, miserable mess.
Thanks for making me all emotional, you fiend.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
February 24, 2015
ARC provided by author.
Hardcore Volume 2 picks up right where the first left us hanging, desperately wanting to know what happened next. And what happens next in Vol 2 is heartbreaking. Cory really has no choice when it comes to Jade's plan to steal from Van. She must do what Jade wants in order to keep her sister safe, even though every fiber of her being is against it. Her inner turmoil with this steal caused my heart to ache. Cory had finally found something real with Van but there was no way things could continue when she realized she must betray him. I loved the support Cory received from her roommates over the whole ordeal and what they were willing to risk for her. It makes me want to know them all more.
This volume of Hardcore was just as fast-paced and action packed as the first. There was never a dull moment and I was glued to the twist and turns of this story, finishing it in no time. Staci Hart knows how to craft a story together that is intense, emotional, and just plain good. I am so anxious for the next and last installment of this serial to see how things play out for Cory.
Hardcore Volume 2 picks up right where the first left us hanging, desperately wanting to know what happened next. And what happens next in Vol 2 is heartbreaking. Cory really has no choice when it comes to Jade's plan to steal from Van. She must do what Jade wants in order to keep her sister safe, even though every fiber of her being is against it. Her inner turmoil with this steal caused my heart to ache. Cory had finally found something real with Van but there was no way things could continue when she realized she must betray him. I loved the support Cory received from her roommates over the whole ordeal and what they were willing to risk for her. It makes me want to know them all more.
This volume of Hardcore was just as fast-paced and action packed as the first. There was never a dull moment and I was glued to the twist and turns of this story, finishing it in no time. Staci Hart knows how to craft a story together that is intense, emotional, and just plain good. I am so anxious for the next and last installment of this serial to see how things play out for Cory.
May 26, 2015
GAH! Volume One leaves us wondering, and Volume Two breaks our hearts.
Cory has a choice, one that despite the decision being obvious, still isn't the easiest to make.
Van captured her heart, making her feel more than she ever thought possible. And now because of a certain set of evil, money-hungry twins, she must betray him.
"I looked down at the street far below, where people went on with their lives in the cabs and on crowded walkways, in the buildings all around me as I wished for another life."
When the choice is made, two hearts are crushed and some super hot, extremely emotional breakup sex is had.
"I don't want to let you go."
And when a deal is done but doesn't go as planned, an opportunity arises for redemption. Cory will take it, no matter the cost.
"I didn't want to run anymore. I wanted to tell him the truth. I wanted to own what happened. ... I would never let him go. I'd regret what I'd done for the rest of my life."
I can't wait for the conclusion to this sexy, fast-paced serial!
Cory has a choice, one that despite the decision being obvious, still isn't the easiest to make.
Van captured her heart, making her feel more than she ever thought possible. And now because of a certain set of evil, money-hungry twins, she must betray him.
"I looked down at the street far below, where people went on with their lives in the cabs and on crowded walkways, in the buildings all around me as I wished for another life."
When the choice is made, two hearts are crushed and some super hot, extremely emotional breakup sex is had.
"I don't want to let you go."
And when a deal is done but doesn't go as planned, an opportunity arises for redemption. Cory will take it, no matter the cost.
"I didn't want to run anymore. I wanted to tell him the truth. I wanted to own what happened. ... I would never let him go. I'd regret what I'd done for the rest of my life."
I can't wait for the conclusion to this sexy, fast-paced serial!
February 23, 2015
What will Cory do when the choices are: Steal Van's painting or sacrifice her sister.
Jade isn't going to let Cory not help with this job. Jade sees $$ and she doesn't trust that Cory wouldn't double cross her so she feels Cory must be involved in stealing Van's painting. When Cory says no way I am not doing this, Jade threatens Jill's life. Since Van has entered the picture, things are changing and Cory is finding it impossible to lie and steal when it use to be second nature. This is the last thing she wans but she must do what she must do.
This one is just as good as the first book. But the story twists and turns. There are so many things going on and I was glued to my ereader screen, wanting more and more of this story. I was hoping for an HEA for Cory and I'll still have to wait and see what happens in volume three. This one ends in a cliff hanger and now I wait for book three on baited breath to see how this ends for Cory and her friends. I am crossing my fingers for the HEA that I am hoping happens. To be continued...
Jade isn't going to let Cory not help with this job. Jade sees $$ and she doesn't trust that Cory wouldn't double cross her so she feels Cory must be involved in stealing Van's painting. When Cory says no way I am not doing this, Jade threatens Jill's life. Since Van has entered the picture, things are changing and Cory is finding it impossible to lie and steal when it use to be second nature. This is the last thing she wans but she must do what she must do.
This one is just as good as the first book. But the story twists and turns. There are so many things going on and I was glued to my ereader screen, wanting more and more of this story. I was hoping for an HEA for Cory and I'll still have to wait and see what happens in volume three. This one ends in a cliff hanger and now I wait for book three on baited breath to see how this ends for Cory and her friends. I am crossing my fingers for the HEA that I am hoping happens. To be continued...
February 25, 2015
Read for ByoB
Another heart pounding installment of Hardcore. I read it in one quick sitting and was then upset because I don't have part three waiting for me.
The stakes are high for Cory, does she do what Jade wants and ruin her heart or does she defy her and possibly ruin her life? I wanted to be mad at Cory for not taking the leap of faith and trust in herself more but I couldn't because given the choice I don't know what I would do. She is left with an impossible choice and does what she thinks is best regardless of what anyone else says.
Cory needs to betray Van and steal his painting to save her sister, but saying good-bye is not as easy as she thought it would be. Through a bunch of twists and turns and steam and running and betrayal and adrenaline rushes we come to the end of this installment WAY too quickly.
I am dying to know what is going to happen...will everything work out or will everything come crashing down. Some times when you walk the line, you fall.
"Everything was wrong and right, fucked up and perfect, all at the same time."
Another heart pounding installment of Hardcore. I read it in one quick sitting and was then upset because I don't have part three waiting for me.
The stakes are high for Cory, does she do what Jade wants and ruin her heart or does she defy her and possibly ruin her life? I wanted to be mad at Cory for not taking the leap of faith and trust in herself more but I couldn't because given the choice I don't know what I would do. She is left with an impossible choice and does what she thinks is best regardless of what anyone else says.
Cory needs to betray Van and steal his painting to save her sister, but saying good-bye is not as easy as she thought it would be. Through a bunch of twists and turns and steam and running and betrayal and adrenaline rushes we come to the end of this installment WAY too quickly.
I am dying to know what is going to happen...will everything work out or will everything come crashing down. Some times when you walk the line, you fall.
"Everything was wrong and right, fucked up and perfect, all at the same time."
March 10, 2015
What an amazing second book in this series!
We pick up where we left off in book one. Now Cory is faced with breaking Van's trust in her or losing her sister. Although Van has come to mean a lot to Cory, the threat to her sister is her focus. Van, for his part, tries to understand Cory and the reasoning behind her leaving but since Cory doesn't want to really talk about it, there isn't much he can do other than to let her walk away.
After their breakup, Cory must follow through with stealing from Van even though it makes her sick. But after all is said and done, Cory vows to make things right with Van.
I am loving this series! Staci has a knack for telling a story with meaning and depth. Cory and Van are complex individuals but are completely suited for each other. The journey we are taking with Cory is brilliantly written and I can't wait to see how it will all turn out. I am defiantly rooting for Cory and, fingers crossed, a happily ever after.
We pick up where we left off in book one. Now Cory is faced with breaking Van's trust in her or losing her sister. Although Van has come to mean a lot to Cory, the threat to her sister is her focus. Van, for his part, tries to understand Cory and the reasoning behind her leaving but since Cory doesn't want to really talk about it, there isn't much he can do other than to let her walk away.
After their breakup, Cory must follow through with stealing from Van even though it makes her sick. But after all is said and done, Cory vows to make things right with Van.
I am loving this series! Staci has a knack for telling a story with meaning and depth. Cory and Van are complex individuals but are completely suited for each other. The journey we are taking with Cory is brilliantly written and I can't wait to see how it will all turn out. I am defiantly rooting for Cory and, fingers crossed, a happily ever after.
February 24, 2015
I'm a mess. A puddle of pain and anguish, hate, and longing.
My heart has been tossed to the ground, thoroughly stomped and shredded. Aching for a clean, safe resolution for Cory and Jill. Pining, crying, and dying for Van. I'm left wondering how there could possibly be a HEA.
So... I sit in the dark, broken. Waiting, wanting. Cory has crawled under my skin. Her suffering is mine. Her need is mine. I physically ache thinking of what comes next. How Cory could possibly explain her desperation. How Van could accept what has happened. How they could ever- maybe never be together again.
Hold on tight, guys. The ride just got bumpier- and a lot darker.
In what was already an emotionally charged story, Staci has crafted another gritty, gut wrenching episode sure to leave you lying bleeding and hanging by a thread, and anxiously waiting for more.
My heart has been tossed to the ground, thoroughly stomped and shredded. Aching for a clean, safe resolution for Cory and Jill. Pining, crying, and dying for Van. I'm left wondering how there could possibly be a HEA.
So... I sit in the dark, broken. Waiting, wanting. Cory has crawled under my skin. Her suffering is mine. Her need is mine. I physically ache thinking of what comes next. How Cory could possibly explain her desperation. How Van could accept what has happened. How they could ever- maybe never be together again.
Hold on tight, guys. The ride just got bumpier- and a lot darker.
In what was already an emotionally charged story, Staci has crafted another gritty, gut wrenching episode sure to leave you lying bleeding and hanging by a thread, and anxiously waiting for more.
February 28, 2015
Once I got my hands on Vol. 2, I could not put it down! You will understand if you have read Vol. 1…if you haven’t read it, please do not continue reading this review….I am warning you now………..VAN! OMGeee!… does that guy have my whole heart!!!!!
He wants Cory so bad, and seems like he will do anything to make her stay! I have not had a book crush on a guy like this in a long time!
I’ve also have not hated a character so much in my life either…Yes, Jade I am looking at you!!!!! Boy, do I wish Staci would write me into her book, so that I could kick Jade’s a**!!!!!!!
I cried so much reading this book, I seriously don’t know how Cory and Van will get through this. My heart wants a HEA, but I don’t even know if that is in the cards for them. This is where my hopeless romantic comes in! *le sigh*
He wants Cory so bad, and seems like he will do anything to make her stay! I have not had a book crush on a guy like this in a long time!
I’ve also have not hated a character so much in my life either…Yes, Jade I am looking at you!!!!! Boy, do I wish Staci would write me into her book, so that I could kick Jade’s a**!!!!!!!
I cried so much reading this book, I seriously don’t know how Cory and Van will get through this. My heart wants a HEA, but I don’t even know if that is in the cards for them. This is where my hopeless romantic comes in! *le sigh*
February 24, 2015
This story is really starting to get interesting. As Cory prepares to completely betray Van, she finds herself breaking down, being forced to give up the one person she finally let see a part of her. But before you start wondering why she would do something like this - well, she isn't really given much of a choice.
Her battle against Jade really comes to a head and everything really hits the fan. But Cory isn't one to just roll over and take it - instead she comes up with a very dangerous plan to try and make things right. Now she just needs to pull it off. I have a feeling Volume three is going to be one hell of an adventure.
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
Her battle against Jade really comes to a head and everything really hits the fan. But Cory isn't one to just roll over and take it - instead she comes up with a very dangerous plan to try and make things right. Now she just needs to pull it off. I have a feeling Volume three is going to be one hell of an adventure.
*This book was received in exchange for an honest review*
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