What do you think?
Rate this book
Surviving Raine #1-2
Surviving the Storm
The complete story of Sebastian Stark and Raine Gayle all in one! Available only on Amazon!
Surviving Raine Summary:
As the captain of a schooner catering to the elite on the Caribbean Seas, Sebastian Stark does his best to avoid any human encounters. Interacting with people isn’t his thing, and he prefers the company of a bottle of vodka, a shot glass, and maybe a whore. There’s no doubt he’s hiding from a checkered past, but he does well keeping everything to himself…
…until the night his schooner capsizes, and he’s stuck on a life raft with one of the passengers.
Raine’s young, she’s cute, and Bastian would probably be into her if he wasn’t suffering from alcohol withdrawal. As the days pass, DTs, starvation, and dehydration become the norm. Even the most closed person starts to open up when he thinks he’s going to die, but when she realizes their traumatic pasts are connected, it’s no longer the elements that have Bastian concerned.
He has no idea how he’s going to Survive Raine.
Bastian’s Storm – Summary
Sebastian Stark just isn’t cut out for normal life with a girlfriend in the hot and humid city of Miami. All in all, he’d rather be back on the island where it was just the two of them, and he could keep everything in balance. The bar down the street tempts him daily, but he’s determined to remain strong. Adjusting to normal life is difficult, but Bastian is doing his best to keep himself together and the nightmares away. Raine’s happy, and that’s what matters to him the most.
But not all nightmares can be driven away.
When Bastian’s former mentor comes into the picture and presents him with an ultimatum, Bastian slips into old habits. Though he wants to shield Raine from the truth, the shady circumstances of his past form into a hurricane he can’t control. In an effort to protect her, Bastian has no choice but to throw himself back into his old job – death match tournaments – just one last time.
Dropped into the arctic wilderness with weapons loaded, Bastian has to compete against representatives from major crime lords all over the states. He’s studied his competition, he knows their weaknesses, and he’s ready to battle for the woman he loves. There’s only one opponent in the mix that causes him any concern. In order to guarantee Raine’s safety, Bastian will be pitted against the key hit man for Chicago’s largest mob family – a guy who’s known as one hell of a shot.
A guy named Evan Arden.
Surviving Raine Summary:
As the captain of a schooner catering to the elite on the Caribbean Seas, Sebastian Stark does his best to avoid any human encounters. Interacting with people isn’t his thing, and he prefers the company of a bottle of vodka, a shot glass, and maybe a whore. There’s no doubt he’s hiding from a checkered past, but he does well keeping everything to himself…
…until the night his schooner capsizes, and he’s stuck on a life raft with one of the passengers.
Raine’s young, she’s cute, and Bastian would probably be into her if he wasn’t suffering from alcohol withdrawal. As the days pass, DTs, starvation, and dehydration become the norm. Even the most closed person starts to open up when he thinks he’s going to die, but when she realizes their traumatic pasts are connected, it’s no longer the elements that have Bastian concerned.
He has no idea how he’s going to Survive Raine.
Bastian’s Storm – Summary
Sebastian Stark just isn’t cut out for normal life with a girlfriend in the hot and humid city of Miami. All in all, he’d rather be back on the island where it was just the two of them, and he could keep everything in balance. The bar down the street tempts him daily, but he’s determined to remain strong. Adjusting to normal life is difficult, but Bastian is doing his best to keep himself together and the nightmares away. Raine’s happy, and that’s what matters to him the most.
But not all nightmares can be driven away.
When Bastian’s former mentor comes into the picture and presents him with an ultimatum, Bastian slips into old habits. Though he wants to shield Raine from the truth, the shady circumstances of his past form into a hurricane he can’t control. In an effort to protect her, Bastian has no choice but to throw himself back into his old job – death match tournaments – just one last time.
Dropped into the arctic wilderness with weapons loaded, Bastian has to compete against representatives from major crime lords all over the states. He’s studied his competition, he knows their weaknesses, and he’s ready to battle for the woman he loves. There’s only one opponent in the mix that causes him any concern. In order to guarantee Raine’s safety, Bastian will be pitted against the key hit man for Chicago’s largest mob family – a guy who’s known as one hell of a shot.
A guy named Evan Arden.
858 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 10, 2014
102 people are currently reading
384 people want to read
About the author
Shay Savage
46 books3,801 followersShay Savage is an independent author from Cincinnati, Ohio, where she lives with her family and a variety of household pets. She is an accomplished public speaker and holds the rank of Distinguished Toastmaster from Toastmasters International. Her hobbies include off-roading in her big, yellow Jeep, science fiction in all forms, and soccer. Savage holds a degree in psychology, and she brings a lot of that knowledge into the characters within her stories.
From the author: “It’s my job to make you FEEL. That doesn’t always mean you’ll feel good, but I want my readers to be connected enough to my characters to care.”
Savage’s books many books span a wide variety of topics and sub-genres with deeply flawed characters. From cavemen to addicts to hitmen, you’ll find yourself falling for these seemingly irredeemable characters!
From the author: “It’s my job to make you FEEL. That doesn’t always mean you’ll feel good, but I want my readers to be connected enough to my characters to care.”
Savage’s books many books span a wide variety of topics and sub-genres with deeply flawed characters. From cavemen to addicts to hitmen, you’ll find yourself falling for these seemingly irredeemable characters!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 30, 2015
I loved this a LOT.
Bastian and Raine are such amazing characters. It's written from Bastians pov and the author is pretty damn good at writing from the male pov!
Reasons I loved this book so much:
* stranded on an island trope
* broken and flawed characters
* character development!
* BASTIAAAAAN
5 stars for book one and 4 stars for book two. So overall still 4.5 stars or something ♥
Bastian and Raine are such amazing characters. It's written from Bastians pov and the author is pretty damn good at writing from the male pov!
Reasons I loved this book so much:
* stranded on an island trope
* broken and flawed characters
* character development!
* BASTIAAAAAN
5 stars for book one and 4 stars for book two. So overall still 4.5 stars or something ♥
December 29, 2018
This combines both books, which need to be read together anyway. The first book surrounds the H & h meeting and being cast adrift in a storm. The H is ultra-MacGuyver with a dark past. The h is a bit more timid, but has an internal strength that perseveres. At first he is a dick, and she is an angel. Later, as he comes to care for her, she becomes a bit more passive. In the second book, they are rescued and the H is trapped by the modern world - he hates people, and with good reason (from bad history). Here, the adventure revs up, and the romance tones down. The anxious parts are very well done - on par with any good thriller. To me it felt like she went along with everything a little too easily, though she really had little choice (gun to her head). The resolve was well handled, but I wish .
One big plus, it was written solely from the guy's perspective, which kept it focused, and the internal dialog was often "I know I'm being a dick, but..."
The sex scenes were more "oh my God that's fantastic" than clinical or imaginative, with one aspect oddly missing (for the most part?).
Overall, I liked the story a lot, but there were enough little annoyances to keep it below 5 starts.
One big plus, it was written solely from the guy's perspective, which kept it focused, and the internal dialog was often "I know I'm being a dick, but..."
The sex scenes were more "oh my God that's fantastic" than clinical or imaginative, with one aspect oddly missing (for the most part?).
Overall, I liked the story a lot, but there were enough little annoyances to keep it below 5 starts.
January 13, 2021
Freaking awesome
Oh my this is my first day savage book and wowwww I'm completely blown away!!! Omg bastian!!!! I felt it all!! His pain his love everything! Wow I'm just completely lost for words right now! 1 million stars!
Oh my this is my first day savage book and wowwww I'm completely blown away!!! Omg bastian!!!! I felt it all!! His pain his love everything! Wow I'm just completely lost for words right now! 1 million stars!
March 23, 2019
SPELLBINDING!!! SHAY SAVAGE AT HER BEST!!!
Title: Surviving the Storm
Series: Surviving Raine
Author: Shay Savage
Designation: Box Set, Complete Surviving Raine Series, Full-Length(Approx 800 pages), Standalone, No Cliffhanger #contemporary #romance #crimefiction #action #adventure #suspense #shipwrecked
My Rating: Five Sexy, Spellbinding Star*****
Before I go any further, I'd like to preface my review by stating that Surviving the Storm is the complete compilation of both books in the Surviving Raine Series and includes Book 1: Surviving Raine and Book 2: Bastian's Storm. Though Surviving Raine is a spinoff of the Evan Arden Series and takes place in an overlapping world with the same timeline, it is NOT necessary to read the earlier Evan Arden Series prior to this collection. Surviving the Storm can be read as a standalone, but having said that, I highly recommend reading them both! I've already read the Evan Arden Series and truly liked it, a lot! But oh my, I loved, loved, loved Surviving the Storm! There were so many things I enjoyed about this series. It included everything I expect in a great book - imaginative story arc, skillful plot progression, beautifully written narrative, snappy dialogue, nonstop danger, pulse-pounding action, high-octane adventure, nail-biting suspense, poignant drama, nefarious villains, tug-at-your-heartstrings angst, soul-stirring romance, fiery passion and, of course, steamy sex, but my favorite component, by far, was the engaging, well-developed cast of characters. I fell in love with both protagonists: emotionally damaged owner and captain of the schooner Oblation, Sebastian Stark, and beautiful passenger Raine Gayle, a guileless young woman still grieving the loss of her murdered police officer father. Sebastian, aka Bastian, Stark was rude, crude, obnoxious, unfeeling, arrogant, sullen, non-communicative, cocky, and a raging alcoholic with no redeeming qualities at all -until he rescued his beautiful passenger, Raine Gayle, from certain death when they shipwrecked on a small island after his schooner capsized during a tsunami following an under ocean earthquake. And he even managed to save them while drunk! lol... Bastian's character was fascinating, complex, coldhearted, mysterious, and full of contradictions, and I hated him. But this is where Shay Savage truly shines. Savage writes the most complicated, unlikable, unrelatable, and unapologetically bad-to-the-bone antiheroes I ever encountered and, as the story progresses, skillfully transforms them into heroes you love and want to save. It's almost magical. And heroine Raine Gayle was an absolute delight. I remember reading one of the reviews before purchasing this collection that claimed Raine was nothing more than a weak, emotional punching bag. I almost didn't purchase this book because of it, but I learned a long time ago, one man's trash is another man's treasure. I'd already read several of Savage's series, so I ignored the critical review, listened to my instincts, made my purchase, and dove in. Best decision ever! That reviewer's claim was total hogwash! Raine may have been gentle, kind, and small in stature, but she was a powerhouse, with an inner light and strength that could move mountains. And Bastian Stark was a mountain of a man, large in stature, unyielding, unstoppable, unconquerable, unredeemable, and without feeling or emotion, but when he met sweet Raine, he found the missing piece of his heart and soul. *sigh* What followed between these two unlikely lovers was nothing short of spellbinding! But their love for each other may not be enough to save them. Bastian Stark was a gruff, growly, dirty talkin', extremely possessive alpha hero who would give up everything, including alcohol, and do absolutely anything to protect his beloved Raine, even if it meant returning to his organized crime affiliations to participate in another organized crime deathmatch tournament, something he vowed never to do again. But eliminating anything or anyone posing a threat to their newfound happiness might not be enough. He may have to pay the ultimate price - his life!
Did I like this story? I think you already know the answer but just to be clear, no I didn't like it; I LOVED it! Would I recommend it? You bet, and I am but only for adult readers. This story does contain profanity, explicit sex, and graphic violence. Will I read this author again? Abso-freak-lutely! And finally, was I entertained? Completely! I giggled, snickered, snorted, snuffled, sniffled, sobbed, ranted, raged, and fumed in anger but by the end, I LOVED Bastian Stark and was happy, satisfied, and well entertained. Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!
Title: Surviving the Storm
Series: Surviving Raine
Author: Shay Savage
Designation: Box Set, Complete Surviving Raine Series, Full-Length(Approx 800 pages), Standalone, No Cliffhanger #contemporary #romance #crimefiction #action #adventure #suspense #shipwrecked
My Rating: Five Sexy, Spellbinding Star*****
Before I go any further, I'd like to preface my review by stating that Surviving the Storm is the complete compilation of both books in the Surviving Raine Series and includes Book 1: Surviving Raine and Book 2: Bastian's Storm. Though Surviving Raine is a spinoff of the Evan Arden Series and takes place in an overlapping world with the same timeline, it is NOT necessary to read the earlier Evan Arden Series prior to this collection. Surviving the Storm can be read as a standalone, but having said that, I highly recommend reading them both! I've already read the Evan Arden Series and truly liked it, a lot! But oh my, I loved, loved, loved Surviving the Storm! There were so many things I enjoyed about this series. It included everything I expect in a great book - imaginative story arc, skillful plot progression, beautifully written narrative, snappy dialogue, nonstop danger, pulse-pounding action, high-octane adventure, nail-biting suspense, poignant drama, nefarious villains, tug-at-your-heartstrings angst, soul-stirring romance, fiery passion and, of course, steamy sex, but my favorite component, by far, was the engaging, well-developed cast of characters. I fell in love with both protagonists: emotionally damaged owner and captain of the schooner Oblation, Sebastian Stark, and beautiful passenger Raine Gayle, a guileless young woman still grieving the loss of her murdered police officer father. Sebastian, aka Bastian, Stark was rude, crude, obnoxious, unfeeling, arrogant, sullen, non-communicative, cocky, and a raging alcoholic with no redeeming qualities at all -until he rescued his beautiful passenger, Raine Gayle, from certain death when they shipwrecked on a small island after his schooner capsized during a tsunami following an under ocean earthquake. And he even managed to save them while drunk! lol... Bastian's character was fascinating, complex, coldhearted, mysterious, and full of contradictions, and I hated him. But this is where Shay Savage truly shines. Savage writes the most complicated, unlikable, unrelatable, and unapologetically bad-to-the-bone antiheroes I ever encountered and, as the story progresses, skillfully transforms them into heroes you love and want to save. It's almost magical. And heroine Raine Gayle was an absolute delight. I remember reading one of the reviews before purchasing this collection that claimed Raine was nothing more than a weak, emotional punching bag. I almost didn't purchase this book because of it, but I learned a long time ago, one man's trash is another man's treasure. I'd already read several of Savage's series, so I ignored the critical review, listened to my instincts, made my purchase, and dove in. Best decision ever! That reviewer's claim was total hogwash! Raine may have been gentle, kind, and small in stature, but she was a powerhouse, with an inner light and strength that could move mountains. And Bastian Stark was a mountain of a man, large in stature, unyielding, unstoppable, unconquerable, unredeemable, and without feeling or emotion, but when he met sweet Raine, he found the missing piece of his heart and soul. *sigh* What followed between these two unlikely lovers was nothing short of spellbinding! But their love for each other may not be enough to save them. Bastian Stark was a gruff, growly, dirty talkin', extremely possessive alpha hero who would give up everything, including alcohol, and do absolutely anything to protect his beloved Raine, even if it meant returning to his organized crime affiliations to participate in another organized crime deathmatch tournament, something he vowed never to do again. But eliminating anything or anyone posing a threat to their newfound happiness might not be enough. He may have to pay the ultimate price - his life!
Did I like this story? I think you already know the answer but just to be clear, no I didn't like it; I LOVED it! Would I recommend it? You bet, and I am but only for adult readers. This story does contain profanity, explicit sex, and graphic violence. Will I read this author again? Abso-freak-lutely! And finally, was I entertained? Completely! I giggled, snickered, snorted, snuffled, sniffled, sobbed, ranted, raged, and fumed in anger but by the end, I LOVED Bastian Stark and was happy, satisfied, and well entertained. Fabulous entertainment and an awesome read!
November 2, 2016
This is the surviving Raine and Bastian's storm duo set. It was absolutely phenomenal. Fantastic really, there aren't enough words.
Its one of the most diverse stories and best books I've ever read. Shay takes you from HATING Sebastian Stark, to LOVING him in such a swift and flawless manner, your incapable of resisting. It's jam packed with crime, and action but still manages to remain a love story. Definitely not a book for children.
Its one of the most diverse stories and best books I've ever read. Shay takes you from HATING Sebastian Stark, to LOVING him in such a swift and flawless manner, your incapable of resisting. It's jam packed with crime, and action but still manages to remain a love story. Definitely not a book for children.
February 9, 2018
Both read separately in the last couple of years - do yourself a favour and read this duo!! Gritty and confronting. you'll be on the island with Bastian and Raine in the first book and in the mountains with Bastian and Evan in the second.
December 31, 2024
From the very first chapter, "Surviving Raine" captivated me and didn't let go. I found myself utterly absorbed in the story, the characters, and the palpable tension. It's rare to encounter a book that leaves such a lasting impression, and this one did just that—I DID NOT WANT IT TO END!
Listening to the audiobook was an experience in itself. Sean Crisden's narration is pure artistry—top tier, chef's kiss. I've never been so eager to purchase an audiobook after listening to just a sample. His voice brought the characters to life, added depth to their emotions, and made the intense love story even more vivid. Crisden truly delivered a performance that made the book unforgettable.
This is the epitome of the enemies-to-lovers trope done right. This isn't the fluffy romance that floods the market; it's raw, real, and rife with emotion. I loved, loved this book for its authenticity and depth. The dynamic between the characters was electric, their development was well-paced, and the evolution of their relationship felt both inevitable and incredibly satisfying.
This book isn't just a story—it's an experience. It's a rollercoaster of emotions that will leave you breathless, and I can't recommend it enough. If you're looking for a love story that will grip you from start to finish, do yourself a favor and dive into "Surviving Raine."
Listening to the audiobook was an experience in itself. Sean Crisden's narration is pure artistry—top tier, chef's kiss. I've never been so eager to purchase an audiobook after listening to just a sample. His voice brought the characters to life, added depth to their emotions, and made the intense love story even more vivid. Crisden truly delivered a performance that made the book unforgettable.
This is the epitome of the enemies-to-lovers trope done right. This isn't the fluffy romance that floods the market; it's raw, real, and rife with emotion. I loved, loved this book for its authenticity and depth. The dynamic between the characters was electric, their development was well-paced, and the evolution of their relationship felt both inevitable and incredibly satisfying.
This book isn't just a story—it's an experience. It's a rollercoaster of emotions that will leave you breathless, and I can't recommend it enough. If you're looking for a love story that will grip you from start to finish, do yourself a favor and dive into "Surviving Raine."
December 3, 2023
5⭐️ I loved it. Heard parallel the audio ♥️ there were some hot scenes in it and spoken by the narrator? Holy mother… 🔥
besides this, I loved the POV of Bastian. He is a real asshole- not a wannabe college frat boy wannabe gangster- he is ruthless. And he is oh so insecure and thinks of him as worthless, that is why he pushes all the ppl away. Raine was the absolutely right person for him. She is so patient with him, so understanding. Being myself an asshole at time, I couldn’t handle such a man 😀 on the other hand he was caring, cute, possessive and protective. His character felt not made up. I could so relay to his feeling coming back to civilization. I am not social myself and love to being on my own. 🤷🏻♀️
I am looking forward to part 2, knowing Bastian is going to have a difficult time to adjust and there are coming other problems….
besides this, I loved the POV of Bastian. He is a real asshole- not a wannabe college frat boy wannabe gangster- he is ruthless. And he is oh so insecure and thinks of him as worthless, that is why he pushes all the ppl away. Raine was the absolutely right person for him. She is so patient with him, so understanding. Being myself an asshole at time, I couldn’t handle such a man 😀 on the other hand he was caring, cute, possessive and protective. His character felt not made up. I could so relay to his feeling coming back to civilization. I am not social myself and love to being on my own. 🤷🏻♀️
I am looking forward to part 2, knowing Bastian is going to have a difficult time to adjust and there are coming other problems….
February 24, 2021
This is a collection of 2 books and I finished the first book back in 2020 and started the second book but never finished it. I did enjoy the first book since it was a survival romance and the second book was the effects of what happened to the main characters after they survived a boat being sunk and stuck on an island. I don't plan on finishing the second book since I'm satisfied with how the first ended.
May 30, 2017
Simply beautiful
I love this author's writing and her male leading characters. They all have issues they struggle with but deep down they are beautiful personalities, broken but nevertheless beautiful. The story is told by Sebastian a former alcoholic who struggles with his demons and finds Reine who becomes his pillar and reason to change his life. It is a beautiful story I thoroughly enjoyed and felt deeply immersed in while I was reading it. And even when you finish the book you still think about it and its heroes. In this story Evan Arden has been introduced as Sebastian's opponent and I can't wait to read his story next. The author definitely knows how to create a captivating story with lots of emotions and complex characters. I love the fact that the stories are told from only the male hero point of view although in the beginning it felt as if the story was incomplete, but it makes sense once you get use to this author style of writing.
Definitely 5 stars from me would recommend without hesitation to every good- story lover.
I love this author's writing and her male leading characters. They all have issues they struggle with but deep down they are beautiful personalities, broken but nevertheless beautiful. The story is told by Sebastian a former alcoholic who struggles with his demons and finds Reine who becomes his pillar and reason to change his life. It is a beautiful story I thoroughly enjoyed and felt deeply immersed in while I was reading it. And even when you finish the book you still think about it and its heroes. In this story Evan Arden has been introduced as Sebastian's opponent and I can't wait to read his story next. The author definitely knows how to create a captivating story with lots of emotions and complex characters. I love the fact that the stories are told from only the male hero point of view although in the beginning it felt as if the story was incomplete, but it makes sense once you get use to this author style of writing.
Definitely 5 stars from me would recommend without hesitation to every good- story lover.
September 23, 2017
Damaged goods man child (Bastian) meets emotional punching bag (Raine), repetitive sex scenes occur. I skimmed, I avoided my Kindle for days rather than continue reading, then I finally decided to give up to my intense relief. The beginning in the raft was more interesting than the rest, so I give 2 stars for a strong opening. DNF at 62%, after the jackhole treated R's friends like absolute garbage then came home and whined like a baby, trying to excuse his bad behavior with the events of the past, as always. Does he ever grow as a person? I'll never know. Couldn't take any more of the manipulative, emotionally stunted, violent bastard.
That said, thank you to Shay Savage for making the books available on Kindle Unlimited. They weren't a good fit for my reading tastes, but you never know till you try. I'm always thankful to writers for giving me the opportunity to take a chance on something new on KU.
That said, thank you to Shay Savage for making the books available on Kindle Unlimited. They weren't a good fit for my reading tastes, but you never know till you try. I'm always thankful to writers for giving me the opportunity to take a chance on something new on KU.
April 16, 2016
Amazing as always. I believe Shay Savage must be the best contemporary author out there right now. Her books pull me in like no others.
June 4, 2019
MY ALL TIME FAVORITE BOOKS!!!! I REPEAT: ALL TIME FAVORITES!!!!!! HMGAHHHHH I FUCKING LOVE BASTIAN AND I FUCKING LOVE MY RAINE!!!!😭😭❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
January 12, 2015
Review to come.
February 13, 2023
While this is a duology, the books absolutely stand on their own—though they do need to be read in order for best results.
Surviving Raine
“How the fuck was I going to survive with this annoying, smoking hot bitch that I simultaneously wanted to fuck and kill?”
Sebastian lives on, and owns, his ship—The Oblation. He mainly takes her out on pleasure cruises with small groups. And he drinks. Excessively.
Raine is nine years younger. She’s in the process of finding herself again after her father’s untimely passing.
We learn more and more about Bastian—he’s emotionally wrecked; abandoned as a toddler, kicked out of group homes, street life, and…fighting life.
The delirium tremens is severe and scary.
As their time stranded extends, we get really deep into both characters’ damage.
Bastian is super insecure. He drinks incessantly to sleep, and to avoid the nightmares from his horrific past. Bastian has some seriously bad-ass survival skills. And he’s smart as hell. Who knew?!?
The Jillian revelation is devastating.
Landon is a piece of human garbage. Bastian needed a father figure and a mentor—not some glorified pimp.
The writer does not overemphasize Raine’s youth or lack of experience. She’s (gratefully) treated as the young but mature adult woman that she is.
Their bickering is hilarious.
The breakthrough of emotional honesty is so powerful and yet simultaneously believable. Wild and bold choice to have the sole POV here be male—it’s genuine and it’s captivating. This author writes a straight man incredibly authentically.
The burn in this book works well. It jives that Bastian admits to himself that he honestly doesn’t know why he saved Raine in the first place. He’s not some heroic god of a man all of a sudden. He’s still intensely flawed, and this doesn’t change just because he found love. He’s still abrasive. He’s still an asshole. He doesn’t just magically get healed; a lifetime of feeling inadequate doesn’t just go away.
“You saved me in another way. You gave me something…no, someone…to live for. There was no reason for my existence before you. We’re definitely even.”
Bastian’s Storm
“Looking at her was like gazing into the eyes of an angel—a guardian angel—one who was sent from heaven just to save my sorry soul.”
Sebastian and Raine live together in a condo on Miami Beach. Raine is back in school at the University of Miami. Bastian is…not doing a lot with his life. He’s struggling. He’s jealous. He feels like he’s sharing too much of Raine; to him, he’s terrified it’s Jillian all over again.
The writing is incredibly genuine. This author doesn’t just nail “damaged straight man,” she knocks it out of the park. She renders Bastian’s battles and flaws palpable. Bastian will always be rough and difficult and abrasive—and lovable.
Two semi-minor quibbles. Landon is way too young. Not even 40? This does not jive with the “father figure” vibe. It’s also totally out of character for Raine to let Lindsay not just bring the wine into their home, but open it up and drink it in Bastian’s presence. This isn’t organic to her character—especially not the Raine from book one.
Otherwise, Raine is girlfriend of the year. She’s smart, she’s mature, and she holds Bastian accountable. It’s great that in plenty of ways, Raine is much more of the adult in their relationship—despite their age difference.
It’s fascinating to view Bastian vis-à-vis the Stockholm Syndrome with Landon. It’s a compelling narrative choice; we rarely see men through this lens. In this novel, Landon absolutely proves himself to be a giant piece of human garbage. But Landon has always underestimated Bastian, and that’s his mistake.
The fighting brings up a lot of uncomfortable issues. The fighters (with the exception of Bastian and Evan) are oblivious to the fact that they are prostitutes. With the glee they display in their violence, it’s profoundly disturbing. Morality aside, the choreography of the action is stellar.
The tension in the Canadian portion of the story, and specifically the avalanche segment, is heart-attack-inducing.
The reunion with Alex is realistic. Bastian isn’t going to immediately transform into a flowery, overly-affectionate man.
Amazing ending. Full gamut of emotions. The writer succeeds in making this book, in many ways, even more raw and riveting than the first installment. It’s beyond impressive. These two have that epic love that everyone strives for.
“She deserved more, and I wasn’t going to deny her. I could never let her go, but I could change myself. I could be what she needed most.”
**Huge thank-you to Rain for this recommendation!!!
Surviving Raine
“How the fuck was I going to survive with this annoying, smoking hot bitch that I simultaneously wanted to fuck and kill?”
Sebastian lives on, and owns, his ship—The Oblation. He mainly takes her out on pleasure cruises with small groups. And he drinks. Excessively.
Raine is nine years younger. She’s in the process of finding herself again after her father’s untimely passing.
We learn more and more about Bastian—he’s emotionally wrecked; abandoned as a toddler, kicked out of group homes, street life, and…fighting life.
The delirium tremens is severe and scary.
As their time stranded extends, we get really deep into both characters’ damage.
Bastian is super insecure. He drinks incessantly to sleep, and to avoid the nightmares from his horrific past. Bastian has some seriously bad-ass survival skills. And he’s smart as hell. Who knew?!?
The Jillian revelation is devastating.
Landon is a piece of human garbage. Bastian needed a father figure and a mentor—not some glorified pimp.
The writer does not overemphasize Raine’s youth or lack of experience. She’s (gratefully) treated as the young but mature adult woman that she is.
Their bickering is hilarious.
The breakthrough of emotional honesty is so powerful and yet simultaneously believable. Wild and bold choice to have the sole POV here be male—it’s genuine and it’s captivating. This author writes a straight man incredibly authentically.
The burn in this book works well. It jives that Bastian admits to himself that he honestly doesn’t know why he saved Raine in the first place. He’s not some heroic god of a man all of a sudden. He’s still intensely flawed, and this doesn’t change just because he found love. He’s still abrasive. He’s still an asshole. He doesn’t just magically get healed; a lifetime of feeling inadequate doesn’t just go away.
“You saved me in another way. You gave me something…no, someone…to live for. There was no reason for my existence before you. We’re definitely even.”
Bastian’s Storm
“Looking at her was like gazing into the eyes of an angel—a guardian angel—one who was sent from heaven just to save my sorry soul.”
Sebastian and Raine live together in a condo on Miami Beach. Raine is back in school at the University of Miami. Bastian is…not doing a lot with his life. He’s struggling. He’s jealous. He feels like he’s sharing too much of Raine; to him, he’s terrified it’s Jillian all over again.
The writing is incredibly genuine. This author doesn’t just nail “damaged straight man,” she knocks it out of the park. She renders Bastian’s battles and flaws palpable. Bastian will always be rough and difficult and abrasive—and lovable.
Two semi-minor quibbles. Landon is way too young. Not even 40? This does not jive with the “father figure” vibe. It’s also totally out of character for Raine to let Lindsay not just bring the wine into their home, but open it up and drink it in Bastian’s presence. This isn’t organic to her character—especially not the Raine from book one.
Otherwise, Raine is girlfriend of the year. She’s smart, she’s mature, and she holds Bastian accountable. It’s great that in plenty of ways, Raine is much more of the adult in their relationship—despite their age difference.
It’s fascinating to view Bastian vis-à-vis the Stockholm Syndrome with Landon. It’s a compelling narrative choice; we rarely see men through this lens. In this novel, Landon absolutely proves himself to be a giant piece of human garbage. But Landon has always underestimated Bastian, and that’s his mistake.
The fighting brings up a lot of uncomfortable issues. The fighters (with the exception of Bastian and Evan) are oblivious to the fact that they are prostitutes. With the glee they display in their violence, it’s profoundly disturbing. Morality aside, the choreography of the action is stellar.
The tension in the Canadian portion of the story, and specifically the avalanche segment, is heart-attack-inducing.
The reunion with Alex is realistic. Bastian isn’t going to immediately transform into a flowery, overly-affectionate man.
Amazing ending. Full gamut of emotions. The writer succeeds in making this book, in many ways, even more raw and riveting than the first installment. It’s beyond impressive. These two have that epic love that everyone strives for.
“She deserved more, and I wasn’t going to deny her. I could never let her go, but I could change myself. I could be what she needed most.”
**Huge thank-you to Rain for this recommendation!!!
August 8, 2019
This story was absolutely incredible!! Raine and Bastien are such an awesome couple and I could not get enough of them! How they met, their earliest connection, and the way the duet ended up was absolute perfection. Shay did an especially OUTSTANDING job at describing the scenario of the two adrift. She certainly did her research! As I was reading the reviews before purchasing the duet a reader made the comment that she had to skim through some of the sex scenes, as there had just been too many! I thought to myself, “Too much sex!! There is no possible way!” And I was right!! There were NOT too many for my taste, but just keep in mind there are plenty! This is a book that I will read over and over! I loved everything about it and especially the characters. They were so perfect together and Bastien’s devotion to Raine was beyond envying. This one is a keeper.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2022
Two books in one. This is definitely not the normal sort of book I would read, more into historical romance.
He is an ex-fighter/killer that once belonged to the Mob. She was the daughter of a cop who had been tortured and killed by the Mob. To avoid his past and identity he ended up as the captain of a schooner catering to the elite on the Caribbean Seas, she ended up on this schooner as a passenger. When the ship capsizes they end up on a raft together. It's now a battle to survive especially for him, an alcoholic and heavy smoker. Eventually they end up on a small island and all their skills are needed to survive. Love blossoms and she helps him with her calming ways. Once rescued they now have a new fight on their hands and he needs to make sure he wins so they can have a real life together.
He is an ex-fighter/killer that once belonged to the Mob. She was the daughter of a cop who had been tortured and killed by the Mob. To avoid his past and identity he ended up as the captain of a schooner catering to the elite on the Caribbean Seas, she ended up on this schooner as a passenger. When the ship capsizes they end up on a raft together. It's now a battle to survive especially for him, an alcoholic and heavy smoker. Eventually they end up on a small island and all their skills are needed to survive. Love blossoms and she helps him with her calming ways. Once rescued they now have a new fight on their hands and he needs to make sure he wins so they can have a real life together.
February 14, 2020
Unbelievable
This book was just amazing. From beginning to end. I just couldn't put it down. Sebastian had so many demons that Raine chased away and she loved him for all his faults
This book was just amazing. From beginning to end. I just couldn't put it down. Sebastian had so many demons that Raine chased away and she loved him for all his faults
August 5, 2020
Well worth the price
This is like ten books in one... I’m s amazed I got through it. What an absolutely fantastic story. Bastien and Raine meet under less than perfect circumstances but such a good story. Five stars loved it!
This is like ten books in one... I’m s amazed I got through it. What an absolutely fantastic story. Bastien and Raine meet under less than perfect circumstances but such a good story. Five stars loved it!
October 9, 2021
Slow burn. H was too clingy & whiny with h as well as very impulsive & emotionally immature. H did grow up more by book2 but not enough. Meh pacing & romance. H was about as obsessed with his ex-GF who he forgave multiple times for cheating on him and still wanted to marry her and she her bareback to get her preggo at her request.
May 9, 2017
4.5 Stars
I'm really glad that the author combined these two books into one edition because this story is definitely best read as one whole story.
I'm really glad that the author combined these two books into one edition because this story is definitely best read as one whole story.
June 11, 2019
Soooooo good
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2020
It’s not everyday you get the H’s POV all the way through a romance novel!
May 8, 2025
read this years ago and remembered enjoying it reread again i liked the male pov / i was stressed
August 26, 2016
I love this book, and I love Sebastian Stark.
I continue to love every book I read from Shay Savage.
Bastian is technically not a good guy. I love how damaged he is yet what a wonderful man he is under all of that.
He is seriously f'd up and seriously someone I would want on my team no matter what the situation. He is a survivor.
Shay comes up with some of the best characters I have ever read. This book has Evan Arden and Sebastian Stark. I think I died and went to readers' heaven. I mean what is it about a guy who straddles the line between 'wanting to be better' and 'past gone bad' that fires up my insides? Yes they have issues obviously.
If I were ever in a life or death situation, I would want them on my side. This time they are put up against each other. Gasp! But I love both men. This cannot be!
Surviving Raine is Bastian's series so I'm gonna focus on him. Poor guy—Can he still be thought of in that manner after all he has done? I say yes.—So, poor guy just cannot catch a break. He wants to feel normal, to be away from all the bullshit, to have his girl...Really he just wants to go back to the island, where he felt peace, where outside life didn't invade his relationship, where Raine only needed him. He really does love that girl. When a tough killer speaks of someone the way he does of her, it touches me more.
I had a whole range of emotions while reading this book, and I welcomed every moment of it.
I appreciate how the men have real grit. I also relish how everything is realistic as it can be. Nothing is over romanticized in this series. The good, bad, ugly, pretty, dirty and clean are all given voice. Of course I'm talking about the living, the surviving, the fighting, etc, but I also am talking about the kid. Usually they overly cute a kid, but it makes the exchange feel unnatural. The kid in this book acts just like real kids do so I liked that.
Basically, I liked every word, and you should read the book. It's one of my top reads for the year.
FULL REVIEW CAN BE FOUND AT http://fangirlmomentsandmytwocents.bl...
I continue to love every book I read from Shay Savage.
I guess she can't write a bad book after all. ;)
Bastian is technically not a good guy. I love how damaged he is yet what a wonderful man he is under all of that.
"No matter what actual words come out of my mouth—every time I think of you, every time I touch you, and every time I speak to you—I am making love to you."
He is seriously f'd up and seriously someone I would want on my team no matter what the situation. He is a survivor.
Shay comes up with some of the best characters I have ever read. This book has Evan Arden and Sebastian Stark. I think I died and went to readers' heaven. I mean what is it about a guy who straddles the line between 'wanting to be better' and 'past gone bad' that fires up my insides? Yes they have issues obviously.
Sometimes it just boiled inside of me.
The fucking anger.
"I don't know that I can control those...those urges. There's a need inside of me to lash out. It's so fucking deep, and I can't explain it; I just know it's there. As far back as I can remember, it's always been there."
If I were ever in a life or death situation, I would want them on my side. This time they are put up against each other. Gasp! But I love both men. This cannot be!
Surviving Raine is Bastian's series so I'm gonna focus on him. Poor guy—Can he still be thought of in that manner after all he has done? I say yes.—So, poor guy just cannot catch a break. He wants to feel normal, to be away from all the bullshit, to have his girl...Really he just wants to go back to the island, where he felt peace, where outside life didn't invade his relationship, where Raine only needed him. He really does love that girl. When a tough killer speaks of someone the way he does of her, it touches me more.
With this angle, we could look right into each other's eyes, and I could feel her inside of me as much as I could feel myself inside of her.
I had a whole range of emotions while reading this book, and I welcomed every moment of it.
I appreciate how the men have real grit. I also relish how everything is realistic as it can be. Nothing is over romanticized in this series. The good, bad, ugly, pretty, dirty and clean are all given voice. Of course I'm talking about the living, the surviving, the fighting, etc, but I also am talking about the kid. Usually they overly cute a kid, but it makes the exchange feel unnatural. The kid in this book acts just like real kids do so I liked that.
Basically, I liked every word, and you should read the book. It's one of my top reads for the year.
FULL REVIEW CAN BE FOUND AT http://fangirlmomentsandmytwocents.bl...
March 8, 2015
Ok read
Surviving Raine: 3 stars
Plot: A
This book had a great plot. Bastian and Raine are stuck on a lifeboat after the ship they were traveling on sunk. Bastian is going through alcohol dt, and has a really horrible past. Additionally, his past is connected to Raine's in a tragic way. This plot was really something different and really good.
Characters: C
Bastian is a real a**hole. I'm not thrilled with his behavior in the beginning of the book...drinking and sleeping with prostitutes. During the first part of the book he is constantly drunk, chain smoking, calling Riane names like b*tch and c*nt. This does not endear me to him. Later in the book he is so possessive, but unsure, a hit vulnerable...though still mean, surly, and at times hurtful. I don't quite understand why Raine loved him so much, but she did. She was constantly showing and telling him. Wasn't quick to walk away when he got mean. But was patient and soothing. His behavior was extremely offputting, and kind of made me upset with a lot of the story.
Heat: B
There were two hot scenes that stood out. They were really descriptive and sexy. The rest were just ok.
Bastian's Storm: 3 starts
Plot: B
The plot was pretty good. I did wonder how Bastian and Raine would adjust to normal life. And Bastian did...poorly. It was interesting to watch him struggle. Also, the last tournament was really the highlight of the book for me. How everything played out. All lines and questions were cleared up..except why Raine's father was at the club where he got killed. It was implied that it was a setup, but that line was never explored. Also, what happened to Arden was a question, but I know he has his own book.
Characters: C
Raine is still a mystery to me. Why she puts up with Bastian and his moodiness. I would've liked her POV during some of these scenes. Bastian was better durinr this book, but still had jerkish behavior.
Heat: C-
Nothing special about these scenes. Not very hot.
Pretty good follow up.
Overall, a decent couple of stories. Though, I had a hard time in some parts because I didn't like Bastian's behavior.
Surviving Raine: 3 stars
Plot: A
This book had a great plot. Bastian and Raine are stuck on a lifeboat after the ship they were traveling on sunk. Bastian is going through alcohol dt, and has a really horrible past. Additionally, his past is connected to Raine's in a tragic way. This plot was really something different and really good.
Characters: C
Bastian is a real a**hole. I'm not thrilled with his behavior in the beginning of the book...drinking and sleeping with prostitutes. During the first part of the book he is constantly drunk, chain smoking, calling Riane names like b*tch and c*nt. This does not endear me to him. Later in the book he is so possessive, but unsure, a hit vulnerable...though still mean, surly, and at times hurtful. I don't quite understand why Raine loved him so much, but she did. She was constantly showing and telling him. Wasn't quick to walk away when he got mean. But was patient and soothing. His behavior was extremely offputting, and kind of made me upset with a lot of the story.
Heat: B
There were two hot scenes that stood out. They were really descriptive and sexy. The rest were just ok.
Bastian's Storm: 3 starts
Plot: B
The plot was pretty good. I did wonder how Bastian and Raine would adjust to normal life. And Bastian did...poorly. It was interesting to watch him struggle. Also, the last tournament was really the highlight of the book for me. How everything played out. All lines and questions were cleared up..except why Raine's father was at the club where he got killed. It was implied that it was a setup, but that line was never explored. Also, what happened to Arden was a question, but I know he has his own book.
Characters: C
Raine is still a mystery to me. Why she puts up with Bastian and his moodiness. I would've liked her POV during some of these scenes. Bastian was better durinr this book, but still had jerkish behavior.
Heat: C-
Nothing special about these scenes. Not very hot.
Pretty good follow up.
Overall, a decent couple of stories. Though, I had a hard time in some parts because I didn't like Bastian's behavior.
September 13, 2015
This was a HOT and interesting read. Perhaps a bit too hot. The sex scenes were blazing but after scene 135 I felt a bit wrung out and actually started skipping them. The book could have done with more plot and humor but eh...let's get on with this review.
Sebastian Stark is an alcoholic ship captain with a messed up life and an even more messed up past. He finds himself shipwrecked with one of his passengers, Raine.
Raine is also no stranger to tragedy. Her best friend convinced her to go on a cruise to temporarily escape life and come back ready to pick up the pieces. While stuck together in a -very well written and realistic- survival situation they end up sharing their pasts and of course falling in love.
The story was told from Sebastian's perspective which I really appreciated. He was so unapologetically male but was equal parts a macho man and an emotionally vulnerable victim of his past. You couldn't help but love him.
Raine on the other hand was more two dimensional than a sheet of paper. She seemed to exist to vindicate Sebastian with kind words and hot sex.
Together they tackle the perils of the wilderness, battle their demons and find a way to forge on into the future. I liked it but it's not in danger of becoming one of my favorites. Three solid stars.
Sebastian Stark is an alcoholic ship captain with a messed up life and an even more messed up past. He finds himself shipwrecked with one of his passengers, Raine.
Raine is also no stranger to tragedy. Her best friend convinced her to go on a cruise to temporarily escape life and come back ready to pick up the pieces. While stuck together in a -very well written and realistic- survival situation they end up sharing their pasts and of course falling in love.
The story was told from Sebastian's perspective which I really appreciated. He was so unapologetically male but was equal parts a macho man and an emotionally vulnerable victim of his past. You couldn't help but love him.
Raine on the other hand was more two dimensional than a sheet of paper. She seemed to exist to vindicate Sebastian with kind words and hot sex.
Together they tackle the perils of the wilderness, battle their demons and find a way to forge on into the future. I liked it but it's not in danger of becoming one of my favorites. Three solid stars.
November 26, 2016
Definitely not as good as the Evan Arden series. I am skimming a lot just so I get the story down and can go back to Isolated and understand that one.
One major issue is Savage's misuse of quotations when starting a new paragraph. I keep thinking it is switching to a new character, and it is the same characte speaking. So that is quit frustrating. But if you do not know how to read within quotes, it will not bother you.
I am also a bit annoyed with Bastian's character. I know all his back story should endear me to him, but his tales of sexual exploits is overdone and actually turning him off to me. I highly doubt Raine wants to hear about the 6 women he had sex with in one night. Or the number of times a day he and Jillian had sex. The crudeness is not my issue, nor is his womanizing. It is just overstated too much as a means to explain his character and I think it could be done better. Not to mention Raine's character seems painfully shy when it comes to sex and I would think all his talk of other women would turn her away from him, not draw her closer to him. So it may fit into his character, but not into the two characters' relationship.
One major issue is Savage's misuse of quotations when starting a new paragraph. I keep thinking it is switching to a new character, and it is the same characte speaking. So that is quit frustrating. But if you do not know how to read within quotes, it will not bother you.
I am also a bit annoyed with Bastian's character. I know all his back story should endear me to him, but his tales of sexual exploits is overdone and actually turning him off to me. I highly doubt Raine wants to hear about the 6 women he had sex with in one night. Or the number of times a day he and Jillian had sex. The crudeness is not my issue, nor is his womanizing. It is just overstated too much as a means to explain his character and I think it could be done better. Not to mention Raine's character seems painfully shy when it comes to sex and I would think all his talk of other women would turn her away from him, not draw her closer to him. So it may fit into his character, but not into the two characters' relationship.
June 1, 2015
I just LOVED Bastian and Raine. Yes, Bastian is quite the bastard in this book but reading this story from his POV gives it such power and understanding what he is truly going through. I felt the passion he had in being there for Raine even the struggle he had with accepting his fate on numerous occasions. Raine is a force to be reckoned with although she isn't as forceful about the impact she has on Bastian is felt from how she can be seen through his eyes. I know that I'll be thinking about their story over time and will possibly read this book again when I want to escape to "paradise".
February 3, 2016
It took me a long time to finish this book. I just wasn't interested in reading it. I couldn't care less about the characters. The boy (already forgot his name) was so damn whiny, irritating, selfish.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews