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Pushing the Limits
From USA Today Bestselling Author comes a new contemporary student/teacher romance standalone...
He’s my art professor.
I’m his student.
With an electric connection and undeniable chemistry, I know it won’t be long until one of us cracks.
When the opportunity arises to pose naked for the entire art class, I can’t help the thrill of knowing he’ll be watching me.
While they all look past me with their eyes narrowed and concentrated, drawing only the lines and angles of my body, he sees right through me down to my vulnerability.
He sees more than just the physical aspects—he sees me.
That’s when I see the struggle in his features as he tries to stay in control.
How do we keep our distance when everything seems to be pulling us together?
What feels so right can only go wrong if we keep pushing the limits.
He’s my art professor.
I’m his student.
With an electric connection and undeniable chemistry, I know it won’t be long until one of us cracks.
When the opportunity arises to pose naked for the entire art class, I can’t help the thrill of knowing he’ll be watching me.
While they all look past me with their eyes narrowed and concentrated, drawing only the lines and angles of my body, he sees right through me down to my vulnerability.
He sees more than just the physical aspects—he sees me.
That’s when I see the struggle in his features as he tries to stay in control.
How do we keep our distance when everything seems to be pulling us together?
What feels so right can only go wrong if we keep pushing the limits.
566 pages, ebook
First published September 16, 2015
716 people are currently reading
5119 people want to read
About the author
Brooke Cumberland
25 books2,561 followersBrooke Cumberland is a USA Today Bestselling author who wears many hats on any given day. She co-wrote under the USA Today Bestselling duo, Kennedy Fox for six years before going back to solo writing. She lives in the frozen tundra of Packer Nation with her husband, wild teenager, and four dogs. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, watching ASMR and reading vlogs on YouTube, or binge-watching a TV show she's most likely behind on. Brooke's addicted to iced coffee, leggings, and naps. She found her passion for telling stories during winter break one year in grad school—and she hasn’t stopped since.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 573 reviews
February 22, 2016
Scorching hot yet heartbreaking teacher-student romance where two souls, lost and broken by loss, help each other put their shattered lives back together through their understanding of art and undeniable chemistry.
Morgan Hampton left his hometown five years ago, moving to a different state to escape the heartbreak the two people he trusted the most caused him. Now that he’s back not even the remorse weight he’s been carrying in the past months is enough to damp his excitement over having to opportunity to meet and teach the student behind the most captivating art portfolio he’s ever seen. But he never expected her to be a sexy, confident woman who’s even more alluring than her paintings. How long can he keep from Pushing the Limits between them?
Aspen has been living with survivor’s guilt and anxiety attacks for the past six years. The fact that her parents blame her for her sister’s tragic death has not helped. The only thing that has is the way she loses herself while painting and the high impenetrable walls she’s built around her heart. But her new teacher sees past them, he sees right to her soul and it makes keeping him at arms’ length impossible. Not even their forbidden student-teacher relationship is enough to keep them apart when everything else pulls them together.
Right from the very beginning I knew this story would be much more than an illicit affair between a teacher and her student. The prologue is heartbreaking and drew me into an emotional story I didn’t want to put down.
The contrast between young Aspen and present day Aspen is astounding and it’s obvious how much her family tragedy affected her. I really liked her happy, flirty, self-assured exterior, but I felt so much for the girl who broke down at the seemingly inconsequential triggers.
I was happy to see how much Morgan understood her almost without knowing her. Even though they’re both suffering from loss, Morgan was much more open about his burdens and his attraction to Aspen looking for any and every excuse to get closer to her, both emotionally and physically which made and incredibly sultry build up.
Once the lines were crossed, Aspen and Morgan burned up the pages with their incredible chemistry, deep connection and oh so very dirty mouths. But the road to healing and happiness has its bumps which need to be overcome together with love and trust. The former they had in spades, the latter came a more slowly.
I really enjoyed and felt every part of this story from the moving prologue to the fun, flirty push and pull between Aspen and Morgan, their steamy encounters, the bond they formed which helped them mend their past heartaches to the incredible secondary characters that enriched the story.
Pushing the Limits is standalone contemporary romance by Brooke Cumberland. Told from both points of view with a happy ending. No cliffhangers. No cheating.
Author’s pinterest board -> https://www.pinterest.com/bcumberland...
Amazon US -> http://amzn.to/1L4Ixkw (currently on sale 02/21/2016)
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
Morgan Hampton left his hometown five years ago, moving to a different state to escape the heartbreak the two people he trusted the most caused him. Now that he’s back not even the remorse weight he’s been carrying in the past months is enough to damp his excitement over having to opportunity to meet and teach the student behind the most captivating art portfolio he’s ever seen. But he never expected her to be a sexy, confident woman who’s even more alluring than her paintings. How long can he keep from Pushing the Limits between them?
Aspen has been living with survivor’s guilt and anxiety attacks for the past six years. The fact that her parents blame her for her sister’s tragic death has not helped. The only thing that has is the way she loses herself while painting and the high impenetrable walls she’s built around her heart. But her new teacher sees past them, he sees right to her soul and it makes keeping him at arms’ length impossible. Not even their forbidden student-teacher relationship is enough to keep them apart when everything else pulls them together.
Right from the very beginning I knew this story would be much more than an illicit affair between a teacher and her student. The prologue is heartbreaking and drew me into an emotional story I didn’t want to put down.
The contrast between young Aspen and present day Aspen is astounding and it’s obvious how much her family tragedy affected her. I really liked her happy, flirty, self-assured exterior, but I felt so much for the girl who broke down at the seemingly inconsequential triggers.
I was happy to see how much Morgan understood her almost without knowing her. Even though they’re both suffering from loss, Morgan was much more open about his burdens and his attraction to Aspen looking for any and every excuse to get closer to her, both emotionally and physically which made and incredibly sultry build up.
Once the lines were crossed, Aspen and Morgan burned up the pages with their incredible chemistry, deep connection and oh so very dirty mouths. But the road to healing and happiness has its bumps which need to be overcome together with love and trust. The former they had in spades, the latter came a more slowly.
I really enjoyed and felt every part of this story from the moving prologue to the fun, flirty push and pull between Aspen and Morgan, their steamy encounters, the bond they formed which helped them mend their past heartaches to the incredible secondary characters that enriched the story.
Pushing the Limits is standalone contemporary romance by Brooke Cumberland. Told from both points of view with a happy ending. No cliffhangers. No cheating.
Author’s pinterest board -> https://www.pinterest.com/bcumberland...
Amazon US -> http://amzn.to/1L4Ixkw (currently on sale 02/21/2016)
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
June 22, 2017
This book was so much more than a teacher/student forbidden romance. Morgan and Aspen have both lost a sibling and they are both struggling with the guilt they feel. They find something in each other that helps them start to heal. They shouldn't be together because Morgan is Aspen's art professor. He can't lose his job and she can't lose her scholarship so they really should stay away from each other but the attraction is too hard to fight. I really enjoyed this story and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a forbidden romance.
did-not-finish
June 9, 2016I have nothing to say about this one, aside from that I thought it was boring.
DNF at 40%
DNF at 40%
August 6, 2016
***2.5 Stars***
It was OK.
It was OK.
September 11, 2015
I was very excited to read this book. I love passionate and forbidden romances and this one was very emotional.
Aspen loves art. She also uses it to hide her pain. After loosing her twin sister, Ariel, she has been drowning in her grief. Her life changes when she meets her new art professor.
Morgan knows all about loss and betrayal. For a while he has been living his life for others, specifically, his niece. When he sees Aspen's art, he is intrigued even before he meets her.
These two people are drawn together from the first glance. They complete each other. Morgan really sees Aspen's pain and she sees something in him that she cannot explain.
But their relationship is forbidden. The attraction inevitable. Will they ever be together?
I really loved Morgan. He was my favourite. His kindness and understanding towards Aspen was magnificent to watch.
I loved the story and even though I admit that some of the forbidden edge I expected was missing from the book, I think it was a good romance without much drama. From the blurb I expected something a bit darker and more intricate but I liked the character development.
Good job.
3.75 to 4 stars from me.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Aspen loves art. She also uses it to hide her pain. After loosing her twin sister, Ariel, she has been drowning in her grief. Her life changes when she meets her new art professor.
Morgan knows all about loss and betrayal. For a while he has been living his life for others, specifically, his niece. When he sees Aspen's art, he is intrigued even before he meets her.
These two people are drawn together from the first glance. They complete each other. Morgan really sees Aspen's pain and she sees something in him that she cannot explain.
But their relationship is forbidden. The attraction inevitable. Will they ever be together?
I really loved Morgan. He was my favourite. His kindness and understanding towards Aspen was magnificent to watch.
I loved the story and even though I admit that some of the forbidden edge I expected was missing from the book, I think it was a good romance without much drama. From the blurb I expected something a bit darker and more intricate but I liked the character development.
Good job.
3.75 to 4 stars from me.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2016
Pushing the limits is right!
***May contain light spoilers****
This whole book was obviously about playing with boundaries. It was kinda annoying at first...I mean, you're a teacher, behave yourself Sir!!! The fact that he was having all these perverted thoughts about a student from day one, to me, showed a lack of respect for his profession. Commenting on her wearing f*ck me heels to class, really? I wouldn't be surprised if she wasn't the first student he was inappropriate with, although they try to convince you otherwise.
Morgan came off sexy, no doubt, but also a bit Pervy and Aspen was just trampy. I get trying to make a character, especially a woman, seem sexually liberated but this seemed a little 'trying too hard'. She is wearing these inappropriate outfits and stilettos to class, only to stand for hours and paint. As a woman who wears heels, I'm not buying this! She lack self respect, in my opinion, and when they actually started to have sex, I was just annoyed at what seemed to be a power struggle. Just aggressive yelling at each other, one trying to out do the other. After the first sex scene, I was pretty much over them. This couple lacked a connection, other than physical and that might be fine for some but for me, not so much!
The writing was great and the story had potential, I will say that. I much preferred B. Cherry's Loving Mr. Daniels, or C. Hoover Slammed, to this one. A lot of the ladies love these angsty, erotic novels, I'm just not one of them. I prefer to be romanaced first!
What I did adore about this book was Morgans relationship with his niece Natalia. It was sweet and humanized him for me. He always knew exactly how to fix her problems, would listen to her and he did put her before everything else in his life. I also like Aspen's friends, they were funny and added a bit of humor. I don't know why Ellie seemed to be the only one to pick up on their—Aspen and Professor Hampton's—little flirtatious relationship, they were so freaking obvious. It seemed like he just creepily stared at her all during class and she blushed the entire time.
Then there's Aspens parents.
So Aspen was convinced that her mother felt a certain way about her, I just didn't see it. The story wasn't developed enough to convince me. Aspen just came off unfair and melodramatic, very melodramatic, when it came to her mom. Aside from her mother initially blaming Aspen for her sisters death, which I think was more her grief than anything, she wasn't so bad. And there was actually no resolution to that situation.
Then there's some parts that are just flipping ridiculous! I won't say because it would seriously ruin part of the book but I just want you guy's to know that towards the end, I had a few WTF moments. Somethings were added strictly for shock value, nothing more. Just completely absurd and asinine! But overall, it was good enough for me to finish and I would still recommend it for those I know like books like this. It's just not a fav of mine.
***May contain light spoilers****
This whole book was obviously about playing with boundaries. It was kinda annoying at first...I mean, you're a teacher, behave yourself Sir!!! The fact that he was having all these perverted thoughts about a student from day one, to me, showed a lack of respect for his profession. Commenting on her wearing f*ck me heels to class, really? I wouldn't be surprised if she wasn't the first student he was inappropriate with, although they try to convince you otherwise.
Morgan came off sexy, no doubt, but also a bit Pervy and Aspen was just trampy. I get trying to make a character, especially a woman, seem sexually liberated but this seemed a little 'trying too hard'. She is wearing these inappropriate outfits and stilettos to class, only to stand for hours and paint. As a woman who wears heels, I'm not buying this! She lack self respect, in my opinion, and when they actually started to have sex, I was just annoyed at what seemed to be a power struggle. Just aggressive yelling at each other, one trying to out do the other. After the first sex scene, I was pretty much over them. This couple lacked a connection, other than physical and that might be fine for some but for me, not so much!
The writing was great and the story had potential, I will say that. I much preferred B. Cherry's Loving Mr. Daniels, or C. Hoover Slammed, to this one. A lot of the ladies love these angsty, erotic novels, I'm just not one of them. I prefer to be romanaced first!
What I did adore about this book was Morgans relationship with his niece Natalia. It was sweet and humanized him for me. He always knew exactly how to fix her problems, would listen to her and he did put her before everything else in his life. I also like Aspen's friends, they were funny and added a bit of humor. I don't know why Ellie seemed to be the only one to pick up on their—Aspen and Professor Hampton's—little flirtatious relationship, they were so freaking obvious. It seemed like he just creepily stared at her all during class and she blushed the entire time.
Then there's Aspens parents.
So Aspen was convinced that her mother felt a certain way about her, I just didn't see it. The story wasn't developed enough to convince me. Aspen just came off unfair and melodramatic, very melodramatic, when it came to her mom. Aside from her mother initially blaming Aspen for her sisters death, which I think was more her grief than anything, she wasn't so bad. And there was actually no resolution to that situation.
Then there's some parts that are just flipping ridiculous! I won't say because it would seriously ruin part of the book but I just want you guy's to know that towards the end, I had a few WTF moments. Somethings were added strictly for shock value, nothing more. Just completely absurd and asinine! But overall, it was good enough for me to finish and I would still recommend it for those I know like books like this. It's just not a fav of mine.
September 12, 2015
This is honestly the BEST student/teacher book I have ever read. Who doesn’t love a hot and steamy forbidden love affair but this book is so much more than that. I was literally sucked in from the very first page of the prologue. Just by reading the prologue I knew this book was going to be full of emotions but I had no idea just how many emotions I would actually feel while reading. One minute I was happy and smiling and the next I was literally in tears and wanting to crawl into my kindle to cuddle with these characters while they grieved. This book is told through both Morgan and Aspen’s POVs and is a heartbreakingly beautiful story from start to finish.
Aspen is struggling every single day. One minute she is on top of the world painting, getting through her classes and working a job she loves. The next minute she is sitting on the floor having a complete panic attack trying to hold her life together without suffering more than she already has. Everyone thinks Aspen has it together because on the outside she is fun loving and full of life. But on the inside she is suffering and living in her own tragedy day after day. Aspen has a balance in her life. She doesn’t commit to anyone and she copes with everything by getting lost in her art. From the first moment she meets Morgan, she knows he is different and might possibly be more than she was looking for.
Morgan has just recently moved back to California. He hasn’t been back in over 5 years. On the outside Morgan has everything going for him but on the inside he is a complete mess. He has also suffered and is holding back a lot of his feelings. But he knows he has no choice but to make the best of the situation and hold his head up high and keep moving. He is actually captivated by Aspen before he ever meets her. Looking at her artwork, he knows she is special but when he sees her in person his world is turned upside down. Morgan is one of the most caring and compassionate men I have read about in a long time. He has his own problems but is there for Aspen every step of the way.
It’s so hard to put this book into words because there are so many things that happen that I can’t talk about. I hate spoilers in books and this is a book that everyone should read from start to finish without knowing any major parts. The raw emotion that both characters went through was enough to rip my heart out. But to see them heal together put every single piece back together. This book is an emotional roller coaster ride to hell and back. It’s not like Morgan and Aspen both haven’t suffered enough so just when everything
might be looking up… BOOM something else happens to bring them right back down. I loved this book from start to finish. Brooke did an amazing job with breaking my heart just to put every piece back together more than once throughout the book. Don’t miss out on this amazing story you will be sad you missed it because it will rock your world in every way.
Aspen is struggling every single day. One minute she is on top of the world painting, getting through her classes and working a job she loves. The next minute she is sitting on the floor having a complete panic attack trying to hold her life together without suffering more than she already has. Everyone thinks Aspen has it together because on the outside she is fun loving and full of life. But on the inside she is suffering and living in her own tragedy day after day. Aspen has a balance in her life. She doesn’t commit to anyone and she copes with everything by getting lost in her art. From the first moment she meets Morgan, she knows he is different and might possibly be more than she was looking for.
Morgan has just recently moved back to California. He hasn’t been back in over 5 years. On the outside Morgan has everything going for him but on the inside he is a complete mess. He has also suffered and is holding back a lot of his feelings. But he knows he has no choice but to make the best of the situation and hold his head up high and keep moving. He is actually captivated by Aspen before he ever meets her. Looking at her artwork, he knows she is special but when he sees her in person his world is turned upside down. Morgan is one of the most caring and compassionate men I have read about in a long time. He has his own problems but is there for Aspen every step of the way.
It’s so hard to put this book into words because there are so many things that happen that I can’t talk about. I hate spoilers in books and this is a book that everyone should read from start to finish without knowing any major parts. The raw emotion that both characters went through was enough to rip my heart out. But to see them heal together put every single piece back together. This book is an emotional roller coaster ride to hell and back. It’s not like Morgan and Aspen both haven’t suffered enough so just when everything
might be looking up… BOOM something else happens to bring them right back down. I loved this book from start to finish. Brooke did an amazing job with breaking my heart just to put every piece back together more than once throughout the book. Don’t miss out on this amazing story you will be sad you missed it because it will rock your world in every way.
September 17, 2015
IT'S ONLY A MATTER OF TIME... #mUSEDbyMorgan
Pushing The Limits takes over your heart as it takes you on a journey where the roads have been paved in love, acceptance, healing, and last but not least, forgiveness.
Aspen, I want to start with her because this book does the same. From page one we are inside her head, so emotionally deep that her emotions are more than just words. They are the small gasps of air, literally the beat in your heart.
Morgan, he is open and raw from the moment his thoughts are exposed. He's real, owns his part in the burdens that he carries and oh boy, does he carry some burdens. Not only his either.
When these two meet their connection is instant, their chemistry intensely rooted in every touch. They are drawn to one another, and the universe takes that as a signal to get them alone at every chance, making each private moment magnetic.
The buildup to those explosive encounters was well worth the wait!! Professor Hampton is definitely a good boy with a dirty mind and a mouth even filthier. But he isn't the only one, steaming up those pages; Aspen gives just as good, meeting Morgan tic for tact.
Brooke Cumberland has ruined my heart with her characters and storylines. Even the secondary character development is just as strong as the h/H, which leads me to wanting a book for Ellie and Natalia one day!!
To sum this up, Morgan Hampton has claimed a piece of my heart right along with Drew Finlay and Alexander Lancaster!! Brooke, I love your whore mind!! With each book your writing is more full on, taking me on a rollercoaster ride of feels. I mean seriously, could you slow down on the awesomeness? ;)
Final Thoughts: It's official, she has romanced my pants off, I swear I don't even know why I wear them anymore!!
Pushing The Limits takes over your heart as it takes you on a journey where the roads have been paved in love, acceptance, healing, and last but not least, forgiveness.
Aspen, I want to start with her because this book does the same. From page one we are inside her head, so emotionally deep that her emotions are more than just words. They are the small gasps of air, literally the beat in your heart.
Morgan, he is open and raw from the moment his thoughts are exposed. He's real, owns his part in the burdens that he carries and oh boy, does he carry some burdens. Not only his either.
When these two meet their connection is instant, their chemistry intensely rooted in every touch. They are drawn to one another, and the universe takes that as a signal to get them alone at every chance, making each private moment magnetic.
The buildup to those explosive encounters was well worth the wait!! Professor Hampton is definitely a good boy with a dirty mind and a mouth even filthier. But he isn't the only one, steaming up those pages; Aspen gives just as good, meeting Morgan tic for tact.
Brooke Cumberland has ruined my heart with her characters and storylines. Even the secondary character development is just as strong as the h/H, which leads me to wanting a book for Ellie and Natalia one day!!
To sum this up, Morgan Hampton has claimed a piece of my heart right along with Drew Finlay and Alexander Lancaster!! Brooke, I love your whore mind!! With each book your writing is more full on, taking me on a rollercoaster ride of feels. I mean seriously, could you slow down on the awesomeness? ;)
Final Thoughts: It's official, she has romanced my pants off, I swear I don't even know why I wear them anymore!!
June 17, 2018
3.5 Pushing the Limits Stars
So I knew going in that it’s a New Adult which for me = dramalama. And I was totally cool with that aspect of the story.
Student & Professor
It was a little, ok a lot predictable but I did enjoy most of this story. I was all in with Aspen her heart break her emotions, I really felt for her character but I love that she was trying even though she felt like she was putting on a front. She was but she was slowly healing and I love that part of the story so much.
Morgan was who I didn't connect well. I wanted to see him grow like Aspen does. I give the man mad props for taking on an 11 year old.
But I kind of feel like he needed to see more than just Aspen, I understand when you’re in a new relationship they are all you see but how does he not see his co-worker be a lurking weirdo. I wanted to see him heal, and I don’t know I thought he would have been more mature being as he is older.
I liked that story, I just didn't love it. This was a new author for me. I think I would check out more of her books maybe not New Adult though.
Lia Langola did a great job, I enjoyed how she brought Aspens emotions out.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
So I knew going in that it’s a New Adult which for me = dramalama. And I was totally cool with that aspect of the story.
Student & Professor
It was a little, ok a lot predictable but I did enjoy most of this story. I was all in with Aspen her heart break her emotions, I really felt for her character but I love that she was trying even though she felt like she was putting on a front. She was but she was slowly healing and I love that part of the story so much.
Morgan was who I didn't connect well. I wanted to see him grow like Aspen does. I give the man mad props for taking on an 11 year old.
But I kind of feel like he needed to see more than just Aspen, I understand when you’re in a new relationship they are all you see but how does he not see his co-worker be a lurking weirdo. I wanted to see him heal, and I don’t know I thought he would have been more mature being as he is older.
I liked that story, I just didn't love it. This was a new author for me. I think I would check out more of her books maybe not New Adult though.
Lia Langola did a great job, I enjoyed how she brought Aspens emotions out.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
March 30, 2016
If you want read about a hot teacher and his sexy student relationship you definitely need to read Pushing the Limits! Morgan Hampton is a gorgous teacher sexy as hell. He loves art so when one of his art students catches his eye with her talent. He can't resist to get to know her better! Aspen Evans his a smart talented art student who enjoys sleeping around doesn't do serious. She has troubled past. When she meets get new art teacher she thinks he is sexy! But keeps tillering herself she never cross that line. Her scholarship and his career would be on the line. This book was smoking hot. It's dirty you definitely fall hard for it! Amazing job Brooke! Can't wait for Breaking the limits!!!!
July 27, 2017
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was a good read about one of my favorite subjects - teacher/student taboo romance. I thought it was done well, and It wasn't (what often is in this type of book) where the connection is mainly sexual. I felt an emotional connection between the h and H, so I feel like that was a nice aspect to make it above "just ok".
Storyline: This is Aspen and Morgan's story. They meet when Aspen attends his advanced art class that he teaches at her university. The sparks fly right away, but they don't cross the line for a long time because Morgan needs the job to support his niece and Aspen is at school on a scholarship and needs recommendations for grad school. Both of them are dealing with the loss of a sibling, so they connect through that and through their art. They have some deep feelings by the time it turns physical. Through some drama with coworkers, exes, and family, the couple find their HEA.
POV: This alternated between Aspen and Morgan's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. There were some slow parts that I found myself skimming, but I didn't think there was instalove in this one.
H rating: 4 stars. Morgan. Other than thinking his name was too feminine, I liked him...especially his interactions with his niece.
h rating: 3 stars. Aspen. She was ok.
Sadness level: Low. No tears shed for this one.
Heat level: Moderate/high. It was definitely steamy once they get together, and it wasn't a overload of sex scenes too...just right IMO.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM:
Cheating:
Possible Triggers:
Closure: This had enough closure that I'd call it a HEA ending, but I still would've liked a little more closure.
Overall Opinion: This was a good read about one of my favorite subjects - teacher/student taboo romance. I thought it was done well, and It wasn't (what often is in this type of book) where the connection is mainly sexual. I felt an emotional connection between the h and H, so I feel like that was a nice aspect to make it above "just ok".
Storyline: This is Aspen and Morgan's story. They meet when Aspen attends his advanced art class that he teaches at her university. The sparks fly right away, but they don't cross the line for a long time because Morgan needs the job to support his niece and Aspen is at school on a scholarship and needs recommendations for grad school. Both of them are dealing with the loss of a sibling, so they connect through that and through their art. They have some deep feelings by the time it turns physical. Through some drama with coworkers, exes, and family, the couple find their HEA.
POV: This alternated between Aspen and Morgan's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Ok. There were some slow parts that I found myself skimming, but I didn't think there was instalove in this one.
H rating: 4 stars. Morgan. Other than thinking his name was too feminine, I liked him...especially his interactions with his niece.
h rating: 3 stars. Aspen. She was ok.
Sadness level: Low. No tears shed for this one.
Heat level: Moderate/high. It was definitely steamy once they get together, and it wasn't a overload of sex scenes too...just right IMO.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM:
Cheating:
Possible Triggers:
Closure: This had enough closure that I'd call it a HEA ending, but I still would've liked a little more closure.
July 8, 2023
3.5 stars! Pushing the Limits is a forbidden, age gap (he’s 8 years older), angsty romance between a college student and an art professor! This one was pretty emotional as well, which I wasn’t expecting but enjoyed how that added to the character’s bonding.
Morgan is an art professor who recently became the guardian for his 11-year old niece Natalia after the death of his brother. He had complicated thoughts and mixed feelings about his brother before he passed and is still dealing with that. He also hasn’t been able to create art for quite some time but feels immediately inspired with his new student, Aspen.
I loved how Aspen and Morgan first meet, she’s in his class with her friend and on the first day they assume he’s a student as well and kind of hit on him before he goes up front to start the class and they realize he’s the professor. 😅 Aspen and Morgan end up bonding over both losing people they loved (his brother more recently and her twin sister 6 years ago). Aspen does have anxiety and deals with that throughout the story, I also liked how much art means to her and how she creates through the loss of her sister. It never really felt like the relationship was that taboo, which I kind of wanted that feeling 😅 but it was enjoyable regardless and that’s a me thing! Aspen and Morgan just really connect and easily fall into a relationship together which was sweet to see!
Thank you so much to Forever and Always PR for an audio ALC, all thoughts in this review are my own!
CW: anxiety, panic attacks on page
Morgan is an art professor who recently became the guardian for his 11-year old niece Natalia after the death of his brother. He had complicated thoughts and mixed feelings about his brother before he passed and is still dealing with that. He also hasn’t been able to create art for quite some time but feels immediately inspired with his new student, Aspen.
I loved how Aspen and Morgan first meet, she’s in his class with her friend and on the first day they assume he’s a student as well and kind of hit on him before he goes up front to start the class and they realize he’s the professor. 😅 Aspen and Morgan end up bonding over both losing people they loved (his brother more recently and her twin sister 6 years ago). Aspen does have anxiety and deals with that throughout the story, I also liked how much art means to her and how she creates through the loss of her sister. It never really felt like the relationship was that taboo, which I kind of wanted that feeling 😅 but it was enjoyable regardless and that’s a me thing! Aspen and Morgan just really connect and easily fall into a relationship together which was sweet to see!
Thank you so much to Forever and Always PR for an audio ALC, all thoughts in this review are my own!
CW: anxiety, panic attacks on page
September 19, 2015
The beautiful and brilliant book, Pushing the Limits, is a racy and risqué roller coaster of a romance that steals and shatters your heart, heats up your body, and swallows your soul. This story is freeing, forbidden, and freaking fabulous. You’ll want attack this romantic read relentlessly and eat it up like dark, decadent, and delicious chocolate cake---a little sinful but oh so sensational and achingly addictive.
Whirling your feelings around like a spinning merry-go-round, Pushing the Limits has everything a book lover wants in a romantic hit of a read: hot alpha male and strong heroine who are a bit broken; angst mixed with a bit of darkness; and a storyline penned with perfection that grabs you from the first page and grips your head, heart, and lady parts until the very end. Pushing the Limits pushes the feels: Giddy like a schoolgirl with your first crush, hopeless and filled with angst like there is no tomorrow, hurt like the loss of a favorite pet, happy like at a favorite vacation spot, and hopeful like Cinderella where dreams come true.
Beautiful blonde, blue-eyed, and curvy Aspen Evans has suffered from a traumatic past where painting is her pain medication, and lady player is her name and game as she closed off her heart years ago with a huge ‘no entry’ sign. Imagine her shock when Professor Panty-Melting Hot enters her college art course.
“I try to sneak glances at Professor Hampton, but he isn’t making it easy. He catches me every time I look up to see if he’s looking at me. Every time he turns his head toward me, my traitorous body shivers in return. Professor Hampton is looking at me like he wants to do more than just look at me.”
Morgan Hampton does not look like a teacher at all with his brown and perfectly tousled hair, gorgeous green eyes, and a tall and hot chiseled body more cut out for the gym than the classroom. For the first time, he is attracted and deeply connected to one of his students. Aspen is forbidden. Off limits.
“I never should’ve sat down next to her, but once I saw her, I couldn’t help myself. I make sure to look around at all the students so I don’t get caught staring at her.”
Holy hot, heated, and heavy student-teacher temptation that makes me want to go back to college and get a big hall pass to crush on the yummy professor! The chemistry between the Professor and Aspen burns like fire, and is electric and enthralling. A dangerous temptation.
“I can’t deny the chemistry between us. I know he feels it too, but that doesn’t mean anything. He’s my professor, it’d risk everything.
What Aspen and Morgan have is not just an attraction or physical connection. It’s a bond deeper than looks or chemistry. With windows straight into each other’s souls, Morgan and Aspen truly ‘see’ each other. The darkness and the light. The pleasure and the pain. The love and the hate. The only chance perhaps for healing is one together.
“I don’t know what it is, but being around Professor Hampton brings out emotions in me I haven’t ever felt before. One minute my heart is beating so hard, I think it’ll beat right out of my chest, and the next I’m practically hyperventilating in front of him gasping for air.
A teacher and student who both enjoy art. A teacher and student that can’t seem to stay away from each other in or outside of the classroom. A teacher and student that hardly know anything about each other, but the attraction is so intense, keeps pulling them together. A teacher and student that cannot become more than a teacher and student.”
Aspen loses herself in her paintings, a mask for her painful past and panic attacks that continue to haunt her. Morgan sees her. Feels her pain as it were his pain too because he’s been dealt a similar blow or tragedy that punches straight to the gut. Morgan is the first person to bring Aspen’s buried emotions to the surface. He sees through her mask. Both are beautiful but broken like a mosaic with pieces---only made whole by each other.
Two kindred souls with off-the-charts chemistry and connection have to be joined by fate. Though like the Garden of Eden, a student-teacher relationship is forbidden.
“Aspen Evans could very be the woman to bring me back to life or the woman to destroy me.”
A beautiful and broken romance, Pushing the Limits is a bit dark, oh-so-delicious, and definitely daring. This sensational and sexy story pushes the limits endlessly---taking a risk, ditching the past with its hold like a prison, exploring a possible relationship and love that is forbidden but oh-so-fine, daring to dream for a better tomorrow, and becoming complete again.
5 terrific, tempting and tantalizing stars
Whirling your feelings around like a spinning merry-go-round, Pushing the Limits has everything a book lover wants in a romantic hit of a read: hot alpha male and strong heroine who are a bit broken; angst mixed with a bit of darkness; and a storyline penned with perfection that grabs you from the first page and grips your head, heart, and lady parts until the very end. Pushing the Limits pushes the feels: Giddy like a schoolgirl with your first crush, hopeless and filled with angst like there is no tomorrow, hurt like the loss of a favorite pet, happy like at a favorite vacation spot, and hopeful like Cinderella where dreams come true.
Beautiful blonde, blue-eyed, and curvy Aspen Evans has suffered from a traumatic past where painting is her pain medication, and lady player is her name and game as she closed off her heart years ago with a huge ‘no entry’ sign. Imagine her shock when Professor Panty-Melting Hot enters her college art course.
“I try to sneak glances at Professor Hampton, but he isn’t making it easy. He catches me every time I look up to see if he’s looking at me. Every time he turns his head toward me, my traitorous body shivers in return. Professor Hampton is looking at me like he wants to do more than just look at me.”
Morgan Hampton does not look like a teacher at all with his brown and perfectly tousled hair, gorgeous green eyes, and a tall and hot chiseled body more cut out for the gym than the classroom. For the first time, he is attracted and deeply connected to one of his students. Aspen is forbidden. Off limits.
“I never should’ve sat down next to her, but once I saw her, I couldn’t help myself. I make sure to look around at all the students so I don’t get caught staring at her.”
Holy hot, heated, and heavy student-teacher temptation that makes me want to go back to college and get a big hall pass to crush on the yummy professor! The chemistry between the Professor and Aspen burns like fire, and is electric and enthralling. A dangerous temptation.
“I can’t deny the chemistry between us. I know he feels it too, but that doesn’t mean anything. He’s my professor, it’d risk everything.
What Aspen and Morgan have is not just an attraction or physical connection. It’s a bond deeper than looks or chemistry. With windows straight into each other’s souls, Morgan and Aspen truly ‘see’ each other. The darkness and the light. The pleasure and the pain. The love and the hate. The only chance perhaps for healing is one together.
“I don’t know what it is, but being around Professor Hampton brings out emotions in me I haven’t ever felt before. One minute my heart is beating so hard, I think it’ll beat right out of my chest, and the next I’m practically hyperventilating in front of him gasping for air.
A teacher and student who both enjoy art. A teacher and student that can’t seem to stay away from each other in or outside of the classroom. A teacher and student that hardly know anything about each other, but the attraction is so intense, keeps pulling them together. A teacher and student that cannot become more than a teacher and student.”
Aspen loses herself in her paintings, a mask for her painful past and panic attacks that continue to haunt her. Morgan sees her. Feels her pain as it were his pain too because he’s been dealt a similar blow or tragedy that punches straight to the gut. Morgan is the first person to bring Aspen’s buried emotions to the surface. He sees through her mask. Both are beautiful but broken like a mosaic with pieces---only made whole by each other.
Two kindred souls with off-the-charts chemistry and connection have to be joined by fate. Though like the Garden of Eden, a student-teacher relationship is forbidden.
“Aspen Evans could very be the woman to bring me back to life or the woman to destroy me.”
A beautiful and broken romance, Pushing the Limits is a bit dark, oh-so-delicious, and definitely daring. This sensational and sexy story pushes the limits endlessly---taking a risk, ditching the past with its hold like a prison, exploring a possible relationship and love that is forbidden but oh-so-fine, daring to dream for a better tomorrow, and becoming complete again.
5 terrific, tempting and tantalizing stars
September 24, 2015
Good... but I read better ones... with this concept.
April 15, 2016
~~4 HEARTS~~
September 24, 2015
I'm not going to write a full review on this book but wanted to toss a few things out there. I genuinely liked this book, I just don't have time to review it. I liked the characters, they were complex, and I actually liked the plot. It's far more in-depth then the synopsis leads you to believe. I've also never read a student/teacher novel until this one and was pleasantly surprised. It kept me on my toes, and I'll admit I turned into a sobbing mess at one point in the book. I would def recommend it as something different to read.
February 14, 2016
This book follows anxiety ridden Aspen who is struggling to deal with her twin sisters' death. It was years ago, but ever since that fatal day she has been haunted with the memories of her sister. She left home to attend a college halfway across the country because of her overbearing Mother, who blames Aspen for the death of her sister; she never lets her have a moment of rest. But, she's studying her favourite subject at college now and she couldn't be happier. Introduce Morgan and her life gets turned upside down and shaken around a few times. There's immediate chemistry and obstacles to overcome... But can they overcome those large obstacle sot be able to live a happy life?
This book is... Neither here nor there, if I'm honest.
It had its good points and its bad points, and honestly there was an equal amount of both! There were times whereby I flicked through chapters extremely quickly due to the repetitive nature of them, and then chapters whereby I was completely hooked and my heart was pounding. I can't make my mind up about whether or not I like this book; so I'm staying in the middle.
Aspen was mostly frustrating... Unfortunately, the author really did overplay the anxiety attacks that Aspen had - but they weren't written articulately. They were written pathetically; as if they were just heavy breathing and then it was over a few lines later - they're not the most realistic moments of the book, but unfortunately they happen so often that you can't really escape them or forget about them. There's at least one in every other chapter (at the very least), and it gets frustrating after the first few - particularly when there's the same formula for each and every one: she starts heavy breathing, she runs away, crouches to the floor, breathes even heavier, Morgan comes along, they talk a bit, he holds her hand/shoulder and then suddenly she's better. It isn't realistic, to me, and I couldn't even imagine her panicking - it just seemed like she was having a moment of nervousness. I don't think Brooke Cumberland had quite grasped how anxiety attack works in the real world - but that definitely wasn't it.
Morgan was more enjoyable - he isn't a "f*ck boy", he isn't sleazy, he's trustworthy, gentlemanly and he looks after his niece - he's everything I dream of in a main male character, and I absolutely loved his character! I found myself taking more interest in his chapters because it seemed as if he had more depth, as if his story had more depth to it - he's a funnier character, a more complex character, a better considered character and he's not someone that I could get enough of (which, halfway through the book, I really wanted Aspen to disappear and just be able to read about Morgan). I love Morgan, he's one of my ultimate favourite male characters and that's definitely a plus point for this book - it makes this book go from a one star novel to a three star. I love his character and I can't help but imagine my favourite male celebs playing his part... Yeees.
I loved Morgan, I didn't care very much for Aspen and I found that the whole "sleep with everyone" aspect of it was frustrating. I understand that it's in a college setting, but I doubt that it was necessary for so much "sex talk" to be going on all of the time. It really took away from the story and felt like it was just a way to get more pages filled... But, alas, I understand that people may enjoy it (I don't enjoy it any novel), so it's a personal preference thing!
I did really love Morgan's character and adored just how much he added to the novel; I feel like the novel wouldn't have had many good points about it at all if it wasn't for Morgan. His interactions with his niece were heart melting, his talks with his Aunt were even more so, how gorgeously sweet he was... How talented he was was brilliant and I loved reading about his inner turmoils. I honestly felt as if I was reading about a struggling character, but not one that became whiny and annoying because of it - he overcame it, and I truly loved every moment of reading about his character and I truly wish I could read a novella of his backstory! Or even how he is a few years later.
This review has been mostly negative, I admit, but there were some positives about the book! Morgan being one, the plot twists/turns, the story itself... The only thing that knocks it down for me by a massive chunk was how frustrating Aspen and her friends really were. But, I liked it regardless and would recommend it to anyone who likes the taboo type of story; it's certainly an interesting read and I'm glad to have read it!
This book is... Neither here nor there, if I'm honest.
It had its good points and its bad points, and honestly there was an equal amount of both! There were times whereby I flicked through chapters extremely quickly due to the repetitive nature of them, and then chapters whereby I was completely hooked and my heart was pounding. I can't make my mind up about whether or not I like this book; so I'm staying in the middle.
Aspen was mostly frustrating... Unfortunately, the author really did overplay the anxiety attacks that Aspen had - but they weren't written articulately. They were written pathetically; as if they were just heavy breathing and then it was over a few lines later - they're not the most realistic moments of the book, but unfortunately they happen so often that you can't really escape them or forget about them. There's at least one in every other chapter (at the very least), and it gets frustrating after the first few - particularly when there's the same formula for each and every one: she starts heavy breathing, she runs away, crouches to the floor, breathes even heavier, Morgan comes along, they talk a bit, he holds her hand/shoulder and then suddenly she's better. It isn't realistic, to me, and I couldn't even imagine her panicking - it just seemed like she was having a moment of nervousness. I don't think Brooke Cumberland had quite grasped how anxiety attack works in the real world - but that definitely wasn't it.
Morgan was more enjoyable - he isn't a "f*ck boy", he isn't sleazy, he's trustworthy, gentlemanly and he looks after his niece - he's everything I dream of in a main male character, and I absolutely loved his character! I found myself taking more interest in his chapters because it seemed as if he had more depth, as if his story had more depth to it - he's a funnier character, a more complex character, a better considered character and he's not someone that I could get enough of (which, halfway through the book, I really wanted Aspen to disappear and just be able to read about Morgan). I love Morgan, he's one of my ultimate favourite male characters and that's definitely a plus point for this book - it makes this book go from a one star novel to a three star. I love his character and I can't help but imagine my favourite male celebs playing his part... Yeees.
I loved Morgan, I didn't care very much for Aspen and I found that the whole "sleep with everyone" aspect of it was frustrating. I understand that it's in a college setting, but I doubt that it was necessary for so much "sex talk" to be going on all of the time. It really took away from the story and felt like it was just a way to get more pages filled... But, alas, I understand that people may enjoy it (I don't enjoy it any novel), so it's a personal preference thing!
I did really love Morgan's character and adored just how much he added to the novel; I feel like the novel wouldn't have had many good points about it at all if it wasn't for Morgan. His interactions with his niece were heart melting, his talks with his Aunt were even more so, how gorgeously sweet he was... How talented he was was brilliant and I loved reading about his inner turmoils. I honestly felt as if I was reading about a struggling character, but not one that became whiny and annoying because of it - he overcame it, and I truly loved every moment of reading about his character and I truly wish I could read a novella of his backstory! Or even how he is a few years later.
This review has been mostly negative, I admit, but there were some positives about the book! Morgan being one, the plot twists/turns, the story itself... The only thing that knocks it down for me by a massive chunk was how frustrating Aspen and her friends really were. But, I liked it regardless and would recommend it to anyone who likes the taboo type of story; it's certainly an interesting read and I'm glad to have read it!
September 19, 2015
Pushing the Limits is one of Brooke Cumberland's best works yet! Brooke has a way of writing a story that pulls at your heart strings and makes you feel everything that the characters are going through, and Pushing the Limits definitely gave me the feels!
Aspen has been dealing with a lot over the past six years with the loss of her sister. She's still grieving the loss, and doesn't allow any emotional connections with anyone. She never expected Morgan, her hot and sexy art professor to knock down all the walls she's built up, and she definitely didn't expect to let him. Morgan and Aspen both have dealt with a lot of bad over the past 5-6 years and are both dealing with everything in their own way. Both know they shouldn't be together, but the chemistry and attraction between them is too much to resist.
Aspen holds her grief and her demons inside, but on the outside presents a happy girl who has everything in order. I was immediately drawn to her character after the prologue and really wanted things to work out for her. She's definitely head strong and very closed off, but I loved seeing her open up more throughout the book and to start letting people in. She is definitely an amazingly written character and I loved her!
Morgan is amazing... I mean a definite swoonworthy, fall in love with book boyfriend. My heart broke for him when we found out what he'd been through, but for him to come back and do the right thing by his family was amazing. He's still dealing with past hurts and trying to move on, but it's not so easy for him to do so. As much as he helps Aspen, she helps him as well in moving forward and learning to let go. The way he's there for Aspen at the time she most needs him.. wow. He knows he shouldn't entertain the idea of being with Aspen, both of them have so much to lose, but when the chemistry is as strong as it is, there is no stopping what happened with these two.
I love student teacher romances, and Pushing the Limits is the best that I've read. Both of these characters stories pulled at my heartstrings and made me feel the pain both of them have gone through. I loved how they both, without fully knowing it, helped heal the pains of the past. I loved how this story was told in both Aspen and Morgan's points of view. You could see the conflicting feelings they had at times, as well as slowly watch them fall in love with one another without even fully realizing it.
This book has a bit of drama, but nothing crazy. I loved watching these two characters heal, and fall in love and follow their dreams. Aspen and Morgan are perfect for one another, and the ending.. I LOVED IT! It was the perfect end to an amazing book. I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a steamy student teacher romance!
Aspen has been dealing with a lot over the past six years with the loss of her sister. She's still grieving the loss, and doesn't allow any emotional connections with anyone. She never expected Morgan, her hot and sexy art professor to knock down all the walls she's built up, and she definitely didn't expect to let him. Morgan and Aspen both have dealt with a lot of bad over the past 5-6 years and are both dealing with everything in their own way. Both know they shouldn't be together, but the chemistry and attraction between them is too much to resist.
Aspen holds her grief and her demons inside, but on the outside presents a happy girl who has everything in order. I was immediately drawn to her character after the prologue and really wanted things to work out for her. She's definitely head strong and very closed off, but I loved seeing her open up more throughout the book and to start letting people in. She is definitely an amazingly written character and I loved her!
Morgan is amazing... I mean a definite swoonworthy, fall in love with book boyfriend. My heart broke for him when we found out what he'd been through, but for him to come back and do the right thing by his family was amazing. He's still dealing with past hurts and trying to move on, but it's not so easy for him to do so. As much as he helps Aspen, she helps him as well in moving forward and learning to let go. The way he's there for Aspen at the time she most needs him.. wow. He knows he shouldn't entertain the idea of being with Aspen, both of them have so much to lose, but when the chemistry is as strong as it is, there is no stopping what happened with these two.
I love student teacher romances, and Pushing the Limits is the best that I've read. Both of these characters stories pulled at my heartstrings and made me feel the pain both of them have gone through. I loved how they both, without fully knowing it, helped heal the pains of the past. I loved how this story was told in both Aspen and Morgan's points of view. You could see the conflicting feelings they had at times, as well as slowly watch them fall in love with one another without even fully realizing it.
This book has a bit of drama, but nothing crazy. I loved watching these two characters heal, and fall in love and follow their dreams. Aspen and Morgan are perfect for one another, and the ending.. I LOVED IT! It was the perfect end to an amazing book. I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a steamy student teacher romance!
September 17, 2015
5 Stars!
Bloody brilliant. I have been on pins and needles waiting for this book to release and finally that day has arrived! YIPEE! When the author started giving us teasers, I knew it was for me. I knew it would be hot, sexy, and totally scandalous. And this book right here is one everyone should read in 2015. Top book of the year goes to this amazing author and the brilliance she penned on the page that became Pushing the Limits. I love taboo romance. I love forbidden romances. I love a romance that pushes my boundaries and tests my limits because it makes me feel alive and free.
This book rocked. It was sexy, sweet, intense, edgy, passionate, steamy, naughty, and should come with a wet panty warning because.... whoa mama! I wasn't sure if this book could be original with all the student teacher romances out there but she totally nailed it. She gave us an unique storyline that grabs you from the emotional prologue until the very end with an amazingly sweet epilogue. This book made me laugh, smile, cry, swoon, and most importantly fall hopelessly in love. This beautiful love story had all of that and had a beautiful ending with a set up for the next book!
This is Aspen and Morgan's story. Their story is deep and intense from the very beginning. From the first time they meet (which a total meet cute in my opinion), they have a connection.. a spark that is undeniable. They see each other as a temptation that is too good to pass up but they have too. Why you ask? Well that is super tricky and totally complicated in the worst ways.... because Aspen is a college student and Morgan is the new teacher of her art class. Queue the drama.
As these two connect through their love of art and tragedy they have experienced, they build a bond that becomes unbreakable. But the temptation can only be resisted for so long until one or both give in. Then what happens? Obstacles and consequences follow along their path to happiness. Can they find love, healing and forgiveness with each other? Is it possible for these two after its all said and done? Get ready for an epic love story that will be with you long after the pages quit turning.
I highly recommend this book.
Review Post---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2015...
Bloody brilliant. I have been on pins and needles waiting for this book to release and finally that day has arrived! YIPEE! When the author started giving us teasers, I knew it was for me. I knew it would be hot, sexy, and totally scandalous. And this book right here is one everyone should read in 2015. Top book of the year goes to this amazing author and the brilliance she penned on the page that became Pushing the Limits. I love taboo romance. I love forbidden romances. I love a romance that pushes my boundaries and tests my limits because it makes me feel alive and free.
This book rocked. It was sexy, sweet, intense, edgy, passionate, steamy, naughty, and should come with a wet panty warning because.... whoa mama! I wasn't sure if this book could be original with all the student teacher romances out there but she totally nailed it. She gave us an unique storyline that grabs you from the emotional prologue until the very end with an amazingly sweet epilogue. This book made me laugh, smile, cry, swoon, and most importantly fall hopelessly in love. This beautiful love story had all of that and had a beautiful ending with a set up for the next book!
This is Aspen and Morgan's story. Their story is deep and intense from the very beginning. From the first time they meet (which a total meet cute in my opinion), they have a connection.. a spark that is undeniable. They see each other as a temptation that is too good to pass up but they have too. Why you ask? Well that is super tricky and totally complicated in the worst ways.... because Aspen is a college student and Morgan is the new teacher of her art class. Queue the drama.
As these two connect through their love of art and tragedy they have experienced, they build a bond that becomes unbreakable. But the temptation can only be resisted for so long until one or both give in. Then what happens? Obstacles and consequences follow along their path to happiness. Can they find love, healing and forgiveness with each other? Is it possible for these two after its all said and done? Get ready for an epic love story that will be with you long after the pages quit turning.
I highly recommend this book.
Review Post---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2015...
September 17, 2015
5 HOT Stars!!!!!
I read this book in just about one sitting yesterday. I only put it down once to eat supper, lol, and then dove straight back in. This story had all the feels for me!!!! The relationship between Morgan and Aspen, OMG, was electric and I mean from their first meeting. Oh and can I just say that the first meeting between them was utterly fantastic, I loved it:) Their attraction to one another was immediate, I mean, hell, sparks were flying out of my Kindle left and right. What I truly loved more than anything was the very sensual slow build between them, it was erotic, hot, and emotional for the both of them!
I was fanning myself during the build-up and when the physical part of their relationship started, oh my, I mean I was tingly right down to my toes. You ever have that feeling of giddiness, like you just want to scream out because you are barely able to contain your excitement, well, that was me!!!!!! Right now I am still on a high from this story and its so hard to truly express what I am feeling except for pure joy. This story was so much more than sexual, it was beautiful, moving, touching and truly emotional deep down for both Morgan and Aspen and I loved these 2 hard throughout!!!! I love when I read a great story where I love both the H and h equally. This story had the perfect balance of all the emotions that I love to experience throughout my reading and I just can't say enough how much I loved it:)
I love this author and her writing, her stories just suck you in from the moment GO!!!!!! Congrats Brooke Cumberland, as usual, your literary magic has blown me away once again......FANTASTIC JOB!!!!!!!!!!
I read this book in just about one sitting yesterday. I only put it down once to eat supper, lol, and then dove straight back in. This story had all the feels for me!!!! The relationship between Morgan and Aspen, OMG, was electric and I mean from their first meeting. Oh and can I just say that the first meeting between them was utterly fantastic, I loved it:) Their attraction to one another was immediate, I mean, hell, sparks were flying out of my Kindle left and right. What I truly loved more than anything was the very sensual slow build between them, it was erotic, hot, and emotional for the both of them!
I was fanning myself during the build-up and when the physical part of their relationship started, oh my, I mean I was tingly right down to my toes. You ever have that feeling of giddiness, like you just want to scream out because you are barely able to contain your excitement, well, that was me!!!!!! Right now I am still on a high from this story and its so hard to truly express what I am feeling except for pure joy. This story was so much more than sexual, it was beautiful, moving, touching and truly emotional deep down for both Morgan and Aspen and I loved these 2 hard throughout!!!! I love when I read a great story where I love both the H and h equally. This story had the perfect balance of all the emotions that I love to experience throughout my reading and I just can't say enough how much I loved it:)
I love this author and her writing, her stories just suck you in from the moment GO!!!!!! Congrats Brooke Cumberland, as usual, your literary magic has blown me away once again......FANTASTIC JOB!!!!!!!!!!
September 26, 2015
Ah, adorei!!!! O conflito é meio fraco, mas o livro é ótimo, feel good! Essa Brooke Cumberland é mana dextruidorãn mexmo.
September 22, 2015
Hot teacher/student relationship
This book was a hot read filled with sexual tension between teacher and student. Things get heated as she turns into muse/lover. Loved this book can't wait for Kendall's story.
This book was a hot read filled with sexual tension between teacher and student. Things get heated as she turns into muse/lover. Loved this book can't wait for Kendall's story.
February 10, 2016
This was so good, but at the same time, a little tiring...
Worth reading and not giving up!
Worth reading and not giving up!
October 25, 2024
Star Rating: 4/5 ⭐
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 4/5 🎧
What to Expect:
- Professor/Student
- Age Gap
- Single Parent/Guardian
- Secret Relationship
- Forbidden Romance
- Past Trauma
- Hurt/Comfort
Pushing the Limits is a story about the steamy, forbidden relationship that develops between a college art teacher, Morgan, and his student, Aspen. Both of them have lost siblings, and they find comfort and understanding in each other as they deal with their grief. The book does a great job mixing intense emotional moments with some really steamy scenes, making their forbidden romance feel real, raw, and even relatable. Although they risked a lot by being together, they couldn't ignore the magnetic pull between them. I loved Morgan and Aspen and how their love of visual arts connected them. Their story definitely pulled on my heartstrings. I enjoyed the growth of each character and how they were able to help heal each other.
Narration:
Vivienne LaRue and Ryan Stone performed the audiobook in dual-style narration. This was my first experience with these narrators, and I really enjoyed their dedication to fully embodying each character. The narration enhances the storytelling, with Vivienne and Ryan perfectly capturing the complexities of the characters' relationship. This story of love, loss, and healing is a must-listen, especially for fans of forbidden romance.
Thanks to Brooke Cumberland for the gifted audiobook. Opinions expressed are my own.
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 4/5 🎧
What to Expect:
- Professor/Student
- Age Gap
- Single Parent/Guardian
- Secret Relationship
- Forbidden Romance
- Past Trauma
- Hurt/Comfort
Pushing the Limits is a story about the steamy, forbidden relationship that develops between a college art teacher, Morgan, and his student, Aspen. Both of them have lost siblings, and they find comfort and understanding in each other as they deal with their grief. The book does a great job mixing intense emotional moments with some really steamy scenes, making their forbidden romance feel real, raw, and even relatable. Although they risked a lot by being together, they couldn't ignore the magnetic pull between them. I loved Morgan and Aspen and how their love of visual arts connected them. Their story definitely pulled on my heartstrings. I enjoyed the growth of each character and how they were able to help heal each other.
Narration:
Vivienne LaRue and Ryan Stone performed the audiobook in dual-style narration. This was my first experience with these narrators, and I really enjoyed their dedication to fully embodying each character. The narration enhances the storytelling, with Vivienne and Ryan perfectly capturing the complexities of the characters' relationship. This story of love, loss, and healing is a must-listen, especially for fans of forbidden romance.
Thanks to Brooke Cumberland for the gifted audiobook. Opinions expressed are my own.
July 19, 2023
I want to start with saying that Brooke wrote this “ in 2015 after dealing with a lot mental health issues and feeling very lost. Morgan & Aspen’s story isn’t a fluffy romance, it deals with a lot of grief, loss, and anxiety.” - @brookewritesromance
This is exactly what this book gives. I know everyone can deal with Anxiety differently but the way this was brought to life really hit home for me.
Aspen is a Art college student who deals with grief, guilt and anxiety that resulted from his twin sisters death. Morgan is her professor. He deals with guilt, anger and bitterness towards his brother who betrayed him and then died while they had a broken relationship. Both Morgan and Aspen have gone through deep trauma and both deal with it very differently. Them meeting, leads to the healing they needed.
The deeper story about Aspen and her painting, why she paints and how that’s helped her and how that ties Morgan into her life is truly beautiful. This is a must read but I would highly recommend the audio to get the full effect of this story brought to life.
So many times, I had to pause to take in what I had just heard and many times I stopped dead in my tracks because the description of what a 14 year old (Aspens sister) can feel and the battles they can face, just knocked me out of my bubble. This can get very heavy to listen to/read at times but the romance was so perfect for this that it brought it all together. I never knew this was something I needed to hear.
The narration was great. The narrators Ryan Stone and @snemethparker they did such an amazing job at bringing the story to life and made me feel very connected. The voices matched what I’d had in mind and that’s always a plus!
𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘈𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘊𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
This is exactly what this book gives. I know everyone can deal with Anxiety differently but the way this was brought to life really hit home for me.
Aspen is a Art college student who deals with grief, guilt and anxiety that resulted from his twin sisters death. Morgan is her professor. He deals with guilt, anger and bitterness towards his brother who betrayed him and then died while they had a broken relationship. Both Morgan and Aspen have gone through deep trauma and both deal with it very differently. Them meeting, leads to the healing they needed.
The deeper story about Aspen and her painting, why she paints and how that’s helped her and how that ties Morgan into her life is truly beautiful. This is a must read but I would highly recommend the audio to get the full effect of this story brought to life.
So many times, I had to pause to take in what I had just heard and many times I stopped dead in my tracks because the description of what a 14 year old (Aspens sister) can feel and the battles they can face, just knocked me out of my bubble. This can get very heavy to listen to/read at times but the romance was so perfect for this that it brought it all together. I never knew this was something I needed to hear.
The narration was great. The narrators Ryan Stone and @snemethparker they did such an amazing job at bringing the story to life and made me feel very connected. The voices matched what I’d had in mind and that’s always a plus!
𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘈𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘊𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
November 20, 2021
I'm totally going through a teacher student binge right now
And I loved these two they connected over something so pure and beautiful shared pain and grief 😔
And I loved these two they connected over something so pure and beautiful shared pain and grief 😔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2015
They say nothing is hotter than a forbidden romance. I totally agree. But never forget that there's always gut wrenching pain that always follows in these kinds of relationships. And before you read this, I'll go ahead, repeat it and put it out there. This book is seriously scorching hot. Morgan and Aspen both have their own dirty, naughty streaks in them. Although it's not all about that. It's also about abruptly losing someone very close to you, someone you love too much, and how you manage to cope with that loss. How you end up grieving in your own way, yet time wouldn't allow them to heal. The struggle to find your way back to happiness and just finding that hope, letting you know everything will eventually get better.
Aspen Evans has lost half of her soul the day her twin sister died. She not only lost her best friend, but she also witnessed it happen on the day they should've been merrily celebrating—their birthday. She couldn't stand staying home after this happened so right when she graduated from high school, she chose a college farthest from home. Having parents who hate you and blame you for your sister's death didn't help Aspen either. She found her therapy in art and she became really good at it. She was able to pour out all her pent up emotions without vocalizing them at all. It worked perfectly for her, but she still couldn't move on, knowing she was right there when her sister died. She still blames herself even after so many years. She felt more lost and alone than ever.
Morgan Hampton has been living the perfect life anybody could dream of—he had a woman he loved all too much and came home to, a successful career, a supportive family. But one day, he got home just to have the people closest to him rip his heart from his chest. He was heartbroken and couldn't stand living around them without remembering everything he saw so he moved as far away from home as he could. Six months after, which wasn't really long enough for him to be able to heal, he receives a call that turns his world upside down. Guilt, pain and anger eats him up and he had no choice but to go back home. Settling back down, he finds a job as an art teacher at the college where Aspen studies advanced art. Ever since his world was ripped from under his feet, he stopped doing what he loved—painting. Instead, he started devoted his time teaching.
The way Aspen and Morgan met was sizzling with tension and you can almost feel the crackling in the air around you. The moment their eyes landed on each other, you wouldn't be able to ignore the chemistry lingering. The stolen stares, the subtle touches. It was all building up to this exploded they both knew would eventually happen. It was seriously just a matter of time before it went off. I loved how Morgan pursued her—how he found all these ways just to get closer to her. Staying back after class, watching her paint, visiting the gallery where she works at each chance he gets. I also loved how he was always there for her. How they both started trusting and opening up to each other about the pain of their past, talking about how much it hurt losing someone they love dearly. How they walked each other through the hardest times when they didn't even realize they needed someone to hold on to the most. How they eventually allowed themselves to accept, be vulnerable and be exposed to heartbreak again. My heart melted to a puddle when they both found their happiness in each other.
The story may not have blown to smithereens like I thought it would've, but the emotions that will rush through you will definitely not go unnoticed. I was constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop, to be honest. It was like waiting for the bomb to explode. Oh, but the one that exploded in the end was not one I was expecting. It was way different from the one I thought it would be. And no, it wasn't something bad. At all. Needless to say, I think I needed a change in panties more when I got to that part, because HOT DAMN PROFESSOR HAMPTON. And one heck of a kudos to you, Aspen!
If you're a big fan of forbidden romances, especially the student/teacher types, you most definitely want to read this one. And don't forget to have some spare undies ready by your side when you start this. Because I tell you, you will need them. I think I ruined mine before I was even halfway through. Don't say I didn't remind you.
**reviewing for Babbling Chatter Reads // RentasticReads**
Aspen Evans has lost half of her soul the day her twin sister died. She not only lost her best friend, but she also witnessed it happen on the day they should've been merrily celebrating—their birthday. She couldn't stand staying home after this happened so right when she graduated from high school, she chose a college farthest from home. Having parents who hate you and blame you for your sister's death didn't help Aspen either. She found her therapy in art and she became really good at it. She was able to pour out all her pent up emotions without vocalizing them at all. It worked perfectly for her, but she still couldn't move on, knowing she was right there when her sister died. She still blames herself even after so many years. She felt more lost and alone than ever.
Morgan Hampton has been living the perfect life anybody could dream of—he had a woman he loved all too much and came home to, a successful career, a supportive family. But one day, he got home just to have the people closest to him rip his heart from his chest. He was heartbroken and couldn't stand living around them without remembering everything he saw so he moved as far away from home as he could. Six months after, which wasn't really long enough for him to be able to heal, he receives a call that turns his world upside down. Guilt, pain and anger eats him up and he had no choice but to go back home. Settling back down, he finds a job as an art teacher at the college where Aspen studies advanced art. Ever since his world was ripped from under his feet, he stopped doing what he loved—painting. Instead, he started devoted his time teaching.
The way Aspen and Morgan met was sizzling with tension and you can almost feel the crackling in the air around you. The moment their eyes landed on each other, you wouldn't be able to ignore the chemistry lingering. The stolen stares, the subtle touches. It was all building up to this exploded they both knew would eventually happen. It was seriously just a matter of time before it went off. I loved how Morgan pursued her—how he found all these ways just to get closer to her. Staying back after class, watching her paint, visiting the gallery where she works at each chance he gets. I also loved how he was always there for her. How they both started trusting and opening up to each other about the pain of their past, talking about how much it hurt losing someone they love dearly. How they walked each other through the hardest times when they didn't even realize they needed someone to hold on to the most. How they eventually allowed themselves to accept, be vulnerable and be exposed to heartbreak again. My heart melted to a puddle when they both found their happiness in each other.
The story may not have blown to smithereens like I thought it would've, but the emotions that will rush through you will definitely not go unnoticed. I was constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop, to be honest. It was like waiting for the bomb to explode. Oh, but the one that exploded in the end was not one I was expecting. It was way different from the one I thought it would be. And no, it wasn't something bad. At all. Needless to say, I think I needed a change in panties more when I got to that part, because HOT DAMN PROFESSOR HAMPTON. And one heck of a kudos to you, Aspen!
If you're a big fan of forbidden romances, especially the student/teacher types, you most definitely want to read this one. And don't forget to have some spare undies ready by your side when you start this. Because I tell you, you will need them. I think I ruined mine before I was even halfway through. Don't say I didn't remind you.
**reviewing for Babbling Chatter Reads // RentasticReads**
September 16, 2015
A dreamy, passionate, emotional love story! A heart-wrenching unforgettable forbidden romance that warmed my heart and satisfied every romantic bone in my body! Loved it! Devoured It! Wanted more of it! Ms. Cumberland certainly has a flair for intense chemistry, passionate love scenes, and emotionally driven romances. This book will make you want to experience college all over again, and maybe, just maybe, give that hot professor that you've been lusting after, a second OR third glance.
I wasn't expecting the strong emotional pull I experienced with these characters, but their stories, their past, their loss pulled at my heart and punched me in the gut, leaving me with tissues all over my bed and goosebumps all over my body. I was sucked in by the end of the prologue. I was incredibly intrigued and my heart already felt heavy. This set a pretty emotional tone for the rest of the story. Two people with deep scars from their past come together to try to forget their demons for a little while. They didn't know that this forbidden affair would end up healing their hearts and chasing away those demons that haunt them on a daily basis. They both know loss. They both know pain. Together they share this loss and pain and make each other lighter but more whole than they have ever been before.
OMG! I absolutely LOVED Aspen and Morgan's chemistry. It was so passionate and intense and HOT! The SPARK was there right away. Even knowing that being together could ruin their future, it didn't seem to matter when it came down to it. That connection they shared was just too damn powerful. Sure they were careful, but in the end it was worth the risk.
I've been jonesing for this book for forever. Brooke Cumberland always brings the feels to a romance and adding this forbidden edge just took it over the top for me. I LOVE me some forbidden romance. It is so wrong that it's RIGHT, you know what I mean? I can never get enough. All together this book HIT THE SPOT! I needed something like this. I needed this type of escape. Romance readers, if you haven't experienced the awesomeness that is Brooke Cumberland, do yourself a favor and BUY this book! You will get hooked on her writing style and her character development. You fall in love with her characters and you will crave more once the last page has turned.
*Gifted copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
I wasn't expecting the strong emotional pull I experienced with these characters, but their stories, their past, their loss pulled at my heart and punched me in the gut, leaving me with tissues all over my bed and goosebumps all over my body. I was sucked in by the end of the prologue. I was incredibly intrigued and my heart already felt heavy. This set a pretty emotional tone for the rest of the story. Two people with deep scars from their past come together to try to forget their demons for a little while. They didn't know that this forbidden affair would end up healing their hearts and chasing away those demons that haunt them on a daily basis. They both know loss. They both know pain. Together they share this loss and pain and make each other lighter but more whole than they have ever been before.
OMG! I absolutely LOVED Aspen and Morgan's chemistry. It was so passionate and intense and HOT! The SPARK was there right away. Even knowing that being together could ruin their future, it didn't seem to matter when it came down to it. That connection they shared was just too damn powerful. Sure they were careful, but in the end it was worth the risk.
I've been jonesing for this book for forever. Brooke Cumberland always brings the feels to a romance and adding this forbidden edge just took it over the top for me. I LOVE me some forbidden romance. It is so wrong that it's RIGHT, you know what I mean? I can never get enough. All together this book HIT THE SPOT! I needed something like this. I needed this type of escape. Romance readers, if you haven't experienced the awesomeness that is Brooke Cumberland, do yourself a favor and BUY this book! You will get hooked on her writing style and her character development. You fall in love with her characters and you will crave more once the last page has turned.
*Gifted copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
September 16, 2015
I know for some people that the forbidden romance books, especially teacher/student is overly done in romance. But I challenge you, if you are one of those people, to read this book.
Pushing the Limits goes beyond the forbidden romance and delves into deeper matters. It’s about two people struggling with how to move forward without feeling any guilt. It’s about giving yourself the ability to trust someone and not tear your fragile world apart.
“Opening your heart only gives people the permission to break it. And once it breaks, it bleeds.”
Aspen looks all put together on the outside. By looking at her and being around her, you wouldn’t guess what goes on behind closed doors.
Morgan returns home, reluctantly. He carries a guilt on his shoulders that is larger than life. He too may appear put together, but when he is alone to his thoughts, he has an extremely hard time coping and moving on.
Aspen turned to art at an early age to handle her emotions. Art is her outlet – it’s how she’s been able to continue on with life and not let it swallow her completely whole. However, she truly has not moved past anything.
Morgan has always enjoyed art – it’s why he teaches it. But he lost his desire and want to paint or draw anything. When he comes across Morgan’s portfolio, he feels an instant connection to her through her paintings and drawings.
“Opening yourself up to be vulnerable, showing your flaws and insecurities. It’s terrifying.”
I am getting goosebumps just thinking about this story. I love how Brooke built this strong relationship. You could feel every bit of grief, hatred, guilt, hurt, love, empathy, hope that was portrayed throughout the book.
This is not your typical student/teacher romance. It will grip your heart in a completely different way. Yes, it has that forbidden edge to it, but it probes into so much more, which I personally feel gives this story more appeal.
Art is very abstract and each portrait will affect and translate differently to each person. Brooke does a wonderful job of combining art into this wonderful love story. She portrays Aspen’s insecurities and how she feels beautifully in her art. Even though we can’t see it, Brooke does one hell of a job creating those portraits in our minds.
Fantastic job Brooke!! I look forward to reading more from you!
April 21, 2016
I promised myself that I would stop reading badly written books and that I wouldn't waste my time on them anymore. So not finishing Pushing the Limits is me not wasting my time any longer. I can't believe I read 400 pages of this badly written and terrible story. It's just that there's nothing worth reading and I should have stopped reading after the first few chapters but I thought maybe it will get better... well it didn't. Now I regret having spent a few hours of my life reading about those stupid characters and stupid story lines, or simply put this terribly written cliche s***. it's not worth reading - I can't even tell you why exactly. it's just everything about this is cheapand bad. so I won't finish it and instead just leave the last hundred pages open to imagination which I'm sure will be way better than the real thing.
I just realized that the author is actually a best-selling author and I'm just wondering how is that possible? okay maybe not... but only because we all know that a lot of bad writers end up on top of those bestseller lists.. Which just shows that it doesn't actually take a lot of talent to get on there. but maybe that's just my opinion based on this book - considering that nearly everyone else gave this a 4/5* rating...
I just realized that the author is actually a best-selling author and I'm just wondering how is that possible? okay maybe not... but only because we all know that a lot of bad writers end up on top of those bestseller lists.. Which just shows that it doesn't actually take a lot of talent to get on there. but maybe that's just my opinion based on this book - considering that nearly everyone else gave this a 4/5* rating...
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