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The Claiming of Callan

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Recommended for mature audiences only.

My name is Logan Black... I’ve always known I was different, that something dark and twisted lurked just below the surface of my skin. Waiting, for her... Five years of passion and pleasure so intense, we begin and end together. Until one dark and rainy night, my life is forever changed... A heartbeat, a breath, or the blink of an eye, that’s how quickly your perfect life could cease to exist. In a few short weeks, everyone I love is slipping through my fingers... Now, how can I possibly choose between the woman who owns my heart, and a family that needs me? Walking away is the most difficult thing I’ve ever done. I’ve convinced myself she’s better off without me, but the monster inside ache’s for her... Callan will always be the light to my darkness. A year has passed by and I still crave her touch, her body tangled with mine. Until, one phone call changes everything. Now it’s time to claim what’s always been mine. The Claiming of Callan is a passionate and compelling novel—a riveting story of love, heartache and one man’s struggle to live without regrets about decisions he cannot change.

326 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 20, 2014

9 people are currently reading
632 people want to read

About the author

Connie Lafortune

14 books531 followers
Connie Lafortune is a rebel, coffee addict and incurable romantic. She pens steamy contemporary romance about enemies-to-lovers, second chances, and broken heroes with plenty of angst. If she's not in her office writing her next novel, you can bet she's curled up in a comfy chair with her nose buried in a book. On the hunt for her next book boyfriend!

Upcoming Release:

Beneath the Bloodline

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Ravenna Young.
Author 19 books66 followers
November 25, 2016
It's 4am and I just binge-read this entire book. I couldn't stop and now I am wanting more. Full review to be continued...need sleep
Continued:
I don't know what I was thinking when I started this book at 10 o'clock at night...but once I started it, I couldn't put it down. Zero regrets, though. This is the second book that I have read by Lafortune and I am still very much in awe. This lady can write, but it's not the perfection in her story, the suspense, or the toe-curling sex--it's the relationships she builds, expertly, between her complicated but realistic characters.

I find dual point of view difficult to read in most cases, especially because most authors make the male character sound too much like a woman, not in this case; Lafortune conveys Logan's personality skillfully and with plenty of tongue-in-cheek humor.

The undying devotion that Logan has for Callan, and vise versa, blends with the perfect amount of personal torment, on both their parts, but Logan's character is the strongest, the most passionate. There were some interesting and totally unexpected twists to this story, and Lafortune weaves them into the storyline in such a way that had me forgetting that I am just the reader.

I truly got lost in this beautifully emotional story of true love in a world where at times it doesn't seem possible. My heart ached for both Logan and Callan and I thoroughly enjoyed losing myself in their story.

I only have one more book of Lafortunes to read...I hope she can type fast :)
Profile Image for Angela.
Author 87 books236 followers
Read
June 10, 2018
A will they won’t they romance that keeps the reader guessing to the end- steamy and secretive with some surprising twists. Logan is a possessive Alpha male that just can't seem to come to terms with his own feelings and desires causing him to run from his feelings and the love of his life again and again.
Profile Image for Harper Alexander.
Author 28 books11 followers
March 25, 2017
The Claiming of Callan is an emotional, angsty coming-of-age love story that had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. I was immediately caught up in Lo and Callan’s relationship, all of their complicated feelings and motives tugging on my heartstrings. The whole ‘first love’ thing is a really nostalgic topic, and the author did a great job capturing that and making it this powerful thing that a lot of people will relate to.

As we get into the story I was drawn along by the subtle allusions to things that really make the reader want to find out what they’re about (Lo’s secret ‘darkness’, hints of possible stalker-esque vibes from a certain other character, etc), and I was touched by the deep emotional subjects and issues that made me extra invested in the characters – always a must in character-driven stories.

I have to say there were twists I absolutely did not expect, which left me NEEDING to know what happened later in the story. No way I could have put it down after the first big twist, even if the other aspects hadn’t drawn me in. So kudos to the author for all her many ‘hooks’!

I actually thought I’d be giving this book 5 stars, but ran into a couple snags. The smallest of these was some redundant phrasing (‘he crushed his mouth to mine’, etc), which isn’t a huge deal given there are only so many ways to describe a passionate kiss and when there are a million passionate kisses, it’s bound to happen. But it was a little too repetitive for my taste. That being said, what I really couldn’t ignore were the other typos and punctuation errors, the main issue seeming to be with using apostrophes where not needed (“As their parent’s we will be there…”, “watching out for the one’s I love”, etc), which happened more and more as the book went on until I lost count, in addition to a couple comma and period mistakes. I also saw a few wrong word usages (they’re/their, your/you’re, don’t/doesn’t, and things like ‘bombard’ instead of ‘bombarded’. I don’t want to pick it apart – just want to demonstrate why I had to dock a star. If it’s only a few little typos, I usually overlook it completely, but there were just a couple dozen too many in this case.

Overall, a compelling read with characters you come to care about. At one point this story had me in tears, and that’s not something that’s happened in awhile. I don’t want to give any spoilers about the ending, but let’s just say my opinion of the book could have swayed either direction based on how it ended, and the verdict is this positive review.
Profile Image for Lucretia.
Author 86 books115 followers
April 3, 2018
Oh. My. Gosh. That was intense, and awesome, and powerful. I do so love a broken alpha. Logan is absolutely my kind of hero. The man’s love for Callan is deep and consuming. Even though he feels unworthy of her, he can’t fight the need in his soul to have her. There is a really complex character evolution with him as the story progresses that just makes me love him more. It isn’t an easy coming together and there are some heartbreaking parts as well as some of the hottest sex I’ve read in a long, long while. The chemistry and steam is off the charts and it’s only made more powerful by the beautiful love that backs it.

The sub-plots that wrap around and pull them apart are rich and well-developed. The entire story moves at a steady pace, with a wonderful attention to detail. The characterization though is really impressive. I even felt a strong connection with secondary characters, parents, and one who I didn’t think I would like but as his role changed so did my opinion of him.

This is my second book by this author and I can confidently say anything by her is going to be fantastic. Get. This. Now.
Profile Image for A.D. Herrick.
Author 22 books75 followers
February 24, 2017
Oh My Gosh, Amazing!!

I seriously ugly cried. This book is freaking phenomenal. It grabs you by the heartstrings and never lets you go.

I swear I wanted to love and beat Logan a million times over as he pushed Callen away and then pulled her back to him, but he is definitely my new book boyfriend.
The story is a beautifully crafted masterpiece that is constantly evolving, leaving you begging for more and ensuring that you are fully satisfied!!

This story has the perfect amount of sweet and naughty blend that satisfies both the sweet romantic at heart and the naughty girl hiding underneath!!

Once again Connie Lafortune has created a story full of panty melting men that leave you fanning yourself and begging for more.

Please tell me you are going to do something with Liam. I just want to cuddle him up in my arms and make him see things my way!! ;-) But all the same, he deserves a happily ever after!

Profile Image for Dani Stowe.
Author 23 books56 followers
June 2, 2018
This is a sweet and steamy romance taking you on a journey that begins with young people torn apart by unfortunate events and misconceptions. Steamy scenes pave the way towards revelations of the past bringing to light the reasoning behind the couples separation as well as former family misconceptions. A well-written story that is reminiscent of true life and love.
Profile Image for A.D. Herrick.
Author 22 books75 followers
February 24, 2017
Oh my gosh! Amazing!!

I seriously ugly cried!!! This book is freaking phenomenal! !! It grabs you by the heart strings and never let's go!

I swear I wanted to love and beat Logan a million times over but he is definitely my new book boyfriend! !

the story is beautifully crafted and constantly evolving leaving you begging for more and fully satisfied! !

Once again Connie Lafortune has created a story full of panty melting men that leave you fanning yourself and begging for more!!
Profile Image for Catherine Bibby (Rochelle's Reviews).
947 reviews35 followers
August 16, 2015
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I was really impressed. The story was well written in dual point of view which is my favorite writing style. I immediately fell in love with Logan, what is there not to like? He is a commanding, tattooed, muscular, bad boy that is willing to sacrifice anything for his family and has a heart that only beats for Callan. My heart broke every time Logan said that he didn't deserve Callan because he had a monster inside. I took an immediate liking to the sweet, caring, and loving Callan. She is everything that Logan needs to calm the trouble brewing inside of him along with enticing the monster inside of him to come out play. She is the perfect mate for Logan and it shines throughout the story.

Now let's get to the juicy part, no pun intended. The sexual tension was off the charts and reading about Logan and Callan's sexcapades left me needing a cold shower yet anticipating their next go round. I love to read about characters who have been friends that exploded into so much more. Connie knows how to write with a combination of sweet, romantic and downright naughty. I highly recommend if you are looking for a heartfelt, steamy love story that will have you reluctant to leave Logan and Callan's world.

Profile Image for J. Saman.
Author 56 books4,133 followers
January 25, 2017
This book is really not what I expected. It ended up being a whole lot more actually. Lafortune spins a story of such sweetness and love that I found myself unable to put my kindle down. I loved this book. I loved Callan and Logan. I loved their emotional and occasionally heartbreaking journey.

We meet Callan and Logan after they breakup. Logan's father is dead and as a result, Logan and his family moved away from California (and Callan) back to New York so they could be closer to other family. It's one year later and neither Callan nor Logan have been able to move on. Their love is just as strong as it's always been.

Callan ends up taking a position in New York to be closer to Logan and their new journey starts from there. As typical with a Connie Lafortune book there are tons of twists and turns and unexpected moments that I really can't say a whole lot else without giving anything away. But these characters had me by the heart and didn't let go until the last page. Such a good read!
Profile Image for Joel Crofoot.
Author 24 books116 followers
January 11, 2017
After tragic event creates circumstances that separate them, Callan and Logan manage to reunite with all the steam of young love. Unfortunately the aftermath of their reunion sets into motion the makings the makings of a love story rife with twists, turns, and passion! The reader experiences the love story in the present as it is happening and in memory reels that explain the development and add a layer of insight and depth to the characters. The inner monologue helps the reader to attach to the characters so you are pulled along through the story as if you are in it too. Once again Connie Lafortune has written a work of art that will pull on your heart strings, twist them around, then arrange them into a better position.
Profile Image for Brenda Hairston.
210 reviews2 followers
May 26, 2015
Sweet realistic hot.

This is one the kind of love stories,even at 55years old, I still believe in. I want that hot man drooling for men. A really good read.
Profile Image for Nikki Landis.
Author 139 books2,106 followers
May 15, 2018


Serious. Book. Hangover.

I can't believe I'm done reading this book! No, I just didn't want Logan and Callan's story to be over. I've literally breathed nothing but work and this book for the last twenty-four hours. This is one novel I'll return to often and thrilled to add to my collection.

Logan - omg. I absolutely love a tortured soul and nice guy mix, a clash of male dominant alpha and sweet sexy protector, a sexy tattooed dark man with brooding eyes and drips sensual virility. He's practically sex on a stick but he's also got the dangerous dark vibe that I just love and crave. He's the perfect dark alpha and hero - I think I totally fell in love with him . . . like repeatedly.

Callan - sweet, smart, and completely devoted to her man. I loved her strong personality and that she wasn't afraid to go after what she wants. Great female lead.

Ms. Lafortune writes like no one else. Her unique approach draws you in to the story and before you know it you're in so deep that reality is nothing but her story and characters. Everything flows perfectly and hours slip by before you realize the world around you. She's beautifully descriptive, her characters real, believable, intense, and loving. I love how she grows each part of the plot and takes you on a magical ride that induces tears, laughter, joy, sorrow, and repeatedly tugs on your heartstrings. And the sex scenes - wow! For me it's perfection.

What can I say? I've been CLAIMED. This is easily one of, if not the best, read of the year for me. Much the same way Bound by Steel will forever remain in my heart and is still in my top all-time favorite books. The Claiming of Callan is a MUST READ.

I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this HOT sexy emotional POWERFUL story! 5 mindblowing stars from me!!

Characters: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Word Building: 5/5
Story Flow: 5/5

Picky Bitches OVERALL SCORE: 5/5
Profile Image for Amy Proebstel.
Author 55 books125 followers
September 1, 2018
The Soul-Mate’s Journey

This story does a good job explaining the aftermath from the head of the family committing suicide. The chain of events from this seemingly selfish act are the backbone of the story. Logan’s life is turned upside down when he blames his father for taking his life, he has to step up and be the head of the family. This decision takes him across the country, far away from Callan, the woman he has loved since he was fifteen. Time and distance do nothing to quench their love for one another as demonstrated by the lengths the two will go through to find one another again.

There are a couple of good twists to the story which help to diffuse the tension, while adding new tension of their own. There are also numerous, steamy sex scenes in which Logan uses sex to help him through his struggles with his inner anger. This coming-of-age romance hits all the right notes for a good weekend read.
355 reviews4 followers
August 21, 2018
This book has a good start, then just keeps getting better. It draws you in then keeps hold of you. You easily get to know the main characters. I love the way this author tells the story from different points of view. It works really well and it is clear which character you are with. There are a few nice surprises in it and the element of mystery makes you want to keep reading. The way the flashbacks are written is good.
I am not a romantic and don’t read many romance novels, but this author makes them addictive.
This is the second book I have read by this author and I look forward to reading many more.
Profile Image for Jessica Jesinghaus.
Author 10 books185 followers
March 10, 2017
Check out this review, and many more, on my blog https://jessjesinghaus.wordpress.com

4 out of 5 stars

Do you ever read a book and think, "If I'd only read this before...?" I certainly was asking myself this question as I read The Claiming of Callan.

This is my second foray into a world created by Connie (the first being Bound by Steel.... if you haven't read Steel, do so! *After* you read this one LOL). I think I would've enjoyed The Claiming of Callan so much more if I wasn't anticipating a Lafortune Lurch (those of you who have read Bound by Steel will know what I'm talking about). This is a really enjoyable read, don't get me wrong, but I kept waiting for the shocking plot twist (aka the Lurch) that was going to leave me reeling. This just isn't that kind of story. So first: If only I'd read this book before Bound by Steel.

If you're looking for sexy times, this book is chock-full of them. The main characters are twenty one and they go after each other like bunnies. Sexy bunnies. Oh, to be so sexually carefree again... to not worry about the little one interrupting or the teenager upstairs hearing you... but I digress, sort of. If I were closer to my twenties than my forties I might have related to these characters a little bit more. So second: If only I'd read this book before I became a responsible (wet blanket?) adult.

As it was, I wanted to reach through the pages and throttle Logan Black. He's one of those (young) men who think it's better to just squash your feelings down and ignore your problems. The way he treated Callan made me angry. And she was always right there ready and eager to forgive him. While I understand these two really do love one another, I wanted to see Logan have to work just a little harder for forgiveness. Too realistic of me? Maybe.

All in all, The Claiming of Callan was an enjoyable read. There was tension, conflict, a little mystery, and a HEA. What more could you want?

**I recieved a free copy of this book from the author which I then chose to voluntarily review**
Profile Image for Rebecca Woolley.
36 reviews
May 29, 2017
You will not want the story to end

I love reading this author's books and once again this was an exceptional storyline that had you hooked from chapter one. You will not be disappointed reading this book
Profile Image for Paula.
113 reviews1 follower
March 3, 2018
Great read

I could not put the book down! I read it in less than 24 hours regardless of the work I had to do. It was that good.
Profile Image for My Secret Book Spot.
662 reviews23 followers
March 24, 2021
Wow!

I absolutely love everything about Logan and Avery! First love that lasts a lifetime, best friends AND lovers, and dang at the steam! Excellent character development and world building, I truly hope Gavin gets a story!!
Pippa, My Secret Book Spot
Profile Image for Janine.
311 reviews1 follower
April 5, 2018
Although this was written second, I read it last. I enjoyed the both Because of You and Bound by Steel more than this one. It is still a good story, but IMHO the other two are better. It was fairly well edited. The thing that bothered me most was the use of "woman" instead of "women". It was missed several times, which shouldn't make it to publishing as It is such an easy thing to catch.

Logan and Callan meet when they are 15 and Logan's family moves in next door. They fall in love and spend the next 5 years together. Tragedy visits Logan's family, and they move across the country to New York. Of course, this is heartbreaking for the couple. After a year, in which it is inferred that they graduate college, Callan applies for a job with a company near Logan's new hometown. Through coincidence, Callan is at the bar where Logan happens to work. They end up spending a day reconnecting and then Callan flies back to California. Two months later, they are communicating, but Logan thinks Callan is still in California. She is not. Thus begins the journey towards the future they have always dreamed of.

Some of the references to things they did together seemed a little odd. Sometimes it seemed that they had more of a childhood together than possible. It seemed odd that Callan would have been to Saratoga Springs at all. I think one reference to her travelling out with Logan was supposed to cover that, but it really was just odd. Maybe she went along when he visited relatives? I don't know. Also, the whole situation around Logan's father was odd. It is never explained what was so bad that led to his decision.

Overall, this was a good story of true love triumphing over time and distance. Logan is left as the man in the family, so he steps up to the plate to help his mother and siblings. Callan refuses to let go, so she sets out to find a way to be closer. Their path is bumpy, but isn't that the way of true love?
Profile Image for Fallon Farmer.
Author 1 book14 followers
December 19, 2014
The Claiming Of Callan. I must say that this was a very interesting book and I was definitely hooked from page one. I don't like to spoil on my reviews so I am going to review this amazing book to the best of my ability without spoiling anything. First off I loved this book. A book of love that was separated, love that was true and strong. A love between two people that could last forever even a year without one seeing the other. Callan and Logan are two characters that have a lot to go through. They have to grow and understand why things aren't always what they want sometimes you might have to sacrifice everything for something that happens out of no where. They must truly find themselves and make tough choices.
This book had me on an emotional roller coaster.I could see and feel what the characters were feeling. As if it were all happening right in front of me. I was on the edge of my seat all night. I finished this book at 2:08 am I started about maybe 9:00 pm that night. I did not stop reading til I was finished. I couldn't put it down for a moment. I needed to know what was going to happen next. There is a mystery in this story line actually more than one and I love it. This story line is great. I do have to say though that this book is for mature readers only. It has sexual content. That part of the book was well written as well. It showed how they both must understand their selves each other and to grow.
I loved this book and I would read it again and more books from this author. I give it a 5 star rating because it was truly an amazing read. The characters, the story line, all of it was great. I recommend this book for people to read.
Profile Image for Erin Munz.
Author 1 book5 followers
January 2, 2015
After thoroughly enjoying Connie Lafortune's debut novel, "Because of You," I was excited to start reading "The Claiming of Callan."

Like her first book, "The Claiming of Callan" is full of emotion and is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. Lafortune has a way of creating characters that are very real and easy for the reader to connect with. In this book, that's the case with Callan and Logan. Little details like them having nicknames for each other is something that helps the reader really relate to these characters. (Although, I will say I felt like I got to know more about Logan and what made him tick than I did about Callan.)

Without giving away too much of the plot, I liked how the story unfolded: Two people who are still very much in love with one another find their way back together. There were some twists and turns in the story that I didn't see coming, which made me enjoy the book all that much more.

Fans of the romance genre should make sure to put this on their to-read list.

(This book is definitely intended for mature audiences and is a much steamier read than "Because of You.")
Profile Image for Rachel Stefano.
7 reviews52 followers
December 8, 2014
If you're looking for a steamy romance read that's equal parts provocative and emotive, The Claiming of Callan hits the nail on the head perfectly. I liked how the start of the book gave us a strong chance to get to know Logan, his family life, and his predicament before bringing in Callan, a talented artist and irresistible companion. Their bond becomes obvious (like when she visits him after a motorcycle accident) but faces real tests as the secrets of the book are revealed. I don't want to give away too much about what happens but with a wedding in the works things take some surprising turns. You'll do a double take.
Author 8 books7 followers
February 18, 2015
There's a ton of dramatic tension in the book, which starts with the two main characters having broken up several months prior due to a tragedy. They're clearly meant for one another and pulled to one another, and when Callan comes back to the area, sparks fly all over again. I actually thought the story was going in a different direction at the beginning, with Callan's new boss being a sort of actually-evil Christian Grey character, but the story goes in an unexpected way when things get more complex. I don't want to spoil plot points I really enjoyed by saying more, but the romance is sweet and the sex is smexy. I enjoyed the read and will look for other books by this author!
Author 71 books7 followers
October 19, 2015
I love this book! The two main characters complement each other so perfectly and just when you think you know what's going to happen the author surprises you. It is very well written and the sex scenes are incredibly intense, just like the relationship. The characters take you from joy to heartbreak and back again and you never stop wanting them to be happy. I'm not going to give anything away, you'll have to buy the book and read it yourself! But I enjoyed it very much and would totally recommend it! Excellent!
Profile Image for Lance Morcan.
Author 37 books624 followers
October 25, 2014

Passionate, compelling…and recommended for mature audiences!

In ‘The Claiming of Callan’, the author has produced a tale to rival the quality of her impressive debut novel ‘Because of You’. Passionate and ardent, its sexual intensity makes for compelling reading.

Whether you like your novels hot and steamy, impassioned and romantic, or just simply high quality, Connie Lafortune’s latest work is a must-read for lovers of the genre.
Profile Image for Linda.
949 reviews
August 12, 2016
First, I want to say that I LOVED the first 20% of this book. But, unfortunately, things went downhill from there. In a nutshell, there was way too much drama and some major character inconsistencies. I felt like I was reading a different book halfway through. I admit that I skimmed the last 30%- by then I had lost interest.

I hate giving bad reviews, and I mean no disrespect to the author, but this story just did not work for me.
8 reviews
October 25, 2015
I love discovering new authors and Connie Lafortune is no exception! The Claiming of Callan was phenomenal and I very strongly recommend it. The love story is amazing, and I experienced just about every emotion and feeling as I read the book. You truly can feel the characters’ pain and love, as though you know them intimately and are part of the story. In short, tt’s one of those books I wished never ended. A simply wonderful, well-written must-read story!
Profile Image for Jo.
1,491 reviews12 followers
November 27, 2015
Have I mentioned how much I enjoy having a blog? No? Well I do. And the reason for that, is that I have found some great books by new to me authors, just like this one.

This book was a really seductive read. Characters who were well rounded and likeable; good pacing and real chemistry. And the story line really grabbed my attention.

If you like your romance to be frustrating, sexy and delicious, but with an edge, this one is for you.

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Ronesa Aveela.
Author 53 books90 followers
July 10, 2015
"The Claiming of Callan" is another book by the author with steamy sex. Her characters pull you in. Get ready for an emotional roller coaster with this book. You'll cry with the characters, yell at them for not seeing what you see, and gasp at the many twists that would rival any popular soap opera. If you've read and loved "Because of You," you'll be sure to enjoy this book as well.
Profile Image for Dorothea Lynne.
Author 3 books15 followers
January 11, 2019
I highly recommend you read this well written, modern day, steamy romance! The author gives us a complex story with compelling characters, Logan and Callan. I enjoyed following Logan on his complicated evolution. A wonderful sexy romance but also so much more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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