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Prestian #1
Degrees of Innocence
A possessive billionaire. An innocent mafia princess. When secrets emerge will our new-found love survive?
On the surface, I’m a successful CEO with friends in high places. But in the shadowy underworld, my connections to the largest crime family in the world are what make me truly powerful.
I’m used to getting everything I set my sights on, so nothing will stop me from getting the woman I crave—even if she’s too pure for this evil world.
Katarina is focused on her thriving career, with no time for a romance, even one that ignites her darkest desires. But I’m determined to make my beauty change her mind, especially when I discover who she really is.
Reconnecting with her father, boss of the Ruthless East Coast syndicate and personal friend of mine, plunges her into a brutal world of ostentatious wealth, danger, and crime family vendettas.
My innocent mafia princess will need to accept me for the domineering man I am, someone who must be in control at all times. Because it will take everything in my power to keep her protected from the savage dangers of the underworld.
But will any chance at love between us survive when she learns the real secret of my past?
Degrees of Innocence is the riveting first book in the Cruel Deceptions collection by Via Mari. It is a deliciously dark, opposites attract, boss and employee, billionaire mafia romance. You will love this collection where the passion is fiery, loyalty is fierce, and the stakes are high. This story is full of suspenseful twists and turns, leaving you on the edge of your seat one moment and fanning yourself the next. Each novel builds on the next. It is most enjoyable read from beginning to end with a guaranteed HEA in the final book, Degrees of Power .
On the surface, I’m a successful CEO with friends in high places. But in the shadowy underworld, my connections to the largest crime family in the world are what make me truly powerful.
I’m used to getting everything I set my sights on, so nothing will stop me from getting the woman I crave—even if she’s too pure for this evil world.
Katarina is focused on her thriving career, with no time for a romance, even one that ignites her darkest desires. But I’m determined to make my beauty change her mind, especially when I discover who she really is.
Reconnecting with her father, boss of the Ruthless East Coast syndicate and personal friend of mine, plunges her into a brutal world of ostentatious wealth, danger, and crime family vendettas.
My innocent mafia princess will need to accept me for the domineering man I am, someone who must be in control at all times. Because it will take everything in my power to keep her protected from the savage dangers of the underworld.
But will any chance at love between us survive when she learns the real secret of my past?
Degrees of Innocence is the riveting first book in the Cruel Deceptions collection by Via Mari. It is a deliciously dark, opposites attract, boss and employee, billionaire mafia romance. You will love this collection where the passion is fiery, loyalty is fierce, and the stakes are high. This story is full of suspenseful twists and turns, leaving you on the edge of your seat one moment and fanning yourself the next. Each novel builds on the next. It is most enjoyable read from beginning to end with a guaranteed HEA in the final book, Degrees of Power .
238 pages, ebook
First published December 20, 2016
559 people are currently reading
496 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
December 12, 2017
This was such a good book! Yes, the erotica is quite prevalent and very hot and heavy, but there is so much else going on in this book! The romance of them hitting it off, the danger that seems to keep following her, her trying to pull of her job presentation without a hitch. She is also quite unsure of the relationship and herself when she finds out just who he really is.
The suspense angle was my favorite part of the book. I know, that was unexpected, wasn't it? Well, the erotica was good, but I can't say it hasn't been done before. The addition to what else is going on makes this book so much better. What is going on? Why? Who is doing it? This was such an unexpected and delightful addition to the book that I did not expect.
The book is very well written -- the characters aren't really anything new, but the story itself was quite good and more than made up for it. I cannot wait to read more!
The suspense angle was my favorite part of the book. I know, that was unexpected, wasn't it? Well, the erotica was good, but I can't say it hasn't been done before. The addition to what else is going on makes this book so much better. What is going on? Why? Who is doing it? This was such an unexpected and delightful addition to the book that I did not expect.
The book is very well written -- the characters aren't really anything new, but the story itself was quite good and more than made up for it. I cannot wait to read more!
May 5, 2017
This charming novel tells the tale of Katarina Meilers, a smart professional design consultant who is emotionally scarred by her mother’s past. She finds herself in mad and relentless love with Chase Prestian, one of the wealthiest and most powerful men in the world. The story grows gradually with journey of sexual exploration and leads to a world of ostentatious wealth and danger for Katarina. I would have to say that Via is a wonderful writer that draws her readers in to the story so that you can not wait to find out what is going to happen next. I would recommend this book to anyone looking to find an enjoyable read.
May 5, 2017
Via Mari a master storyteller bring alive to the reader the story of Degrees of Innocence. The main characters are well developed, the story is beautifully written, slow and involving. There were few emotional scenes, that grabs your attention and encourages you to take a deeper breath. All in all, really enjoy reading it. Feel the frisson of excitement as you read this love novel by a talented story-teller. Via Mari has become one of my favorite authors. Each installment shows improvement in the author’s ability to develop characters that you’ll come to love. Rated this a 5 star rating. Well written.
December 9, 2017
Katarina (Kate) Meilers, not only is she intelligent but has a sense of innocence that will captivate Chase Prestian.
This book has so much passion and has you intrigued with each page you flip or swipe.
Christian Grey has nothing on Chase Prestian. This new Billionare will have you melting and drooling from the moment you meet him.
I was extremely impressed with Via Mari work and I can't wait to continue reading this series. If you like hot, sexy, gorgeous, dominating, Billionaires then this book and series is for you.
I voluntarily review an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
This book has so much passion and has you intrigued with each page you flip or swipe.
Christian Grey has nothing on Chase Prestian. This new Billionare will have you melting and drooling from the moment you meet him.
I was extremely impressed with Via Mari work and I can't wait to continue reading this series. If you like hot, sexy, gorgeous, dominating, Billionaires then this book and series is for you.
I voluntarily review an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
September 30, 2017
There is so much I want to say about this book, but I was never into spoilers. So I will try to tell you how amazing this book is without going into too much detail. Yes, the novel has a fifty shade feeling. It would probably attract the fans of 50 fades and This Man. Nevertheless, it has its own essence and I ask you to give it a chance and let it be the one to enchant you. Don't focus on similarities with other series, let yourself be charmed by the amazing characters and world Via created.
I must confess I have a weak spot for alpha males. There is something so sexy about a confident, bossy and overprotective guy. It is so primal, exciting and totally captivating. That is, perhaps, the only way I can describe Chase Prestian. The guy exudes power and sexuality, but there is something so much deeper inside him that will just be unleashed by the right lady. Enters here our heroine, Katarina. She is a normal girl but has so much to offer as a professional and as a person. As you can imagine, she is facing this reluctance to jump into the life of Chase. They have a chemistry that won't be denied and she has this submissive attitude with a hint of spicy rebellion. They fit perfectly in that aspect. Nevertheless, she has a past that left her with a scar. Also, she is not used to the attention the billionaire is giving him. Any girl would be charmed but cautious.
Nevertheless, I was touched by the way the author developed our main leads and pushed them forward in such a believable and enticing way. I won't go into details because it would be a shame you were prepared for everything this author has to give. Just give it a try and let yourself fall in love with Chase and Katarina, like I did.
Fair warning, there is some bondage included in this relationship! If that isn't your cup of tea then this may not be the book for you. Nevertheless, don't think this book is just about hot scenes. It has a wonderful plot that deserves to be read and shared with the world.
I must confess I have a weak spot for alpha males. There is something so sexy about a confident, bossy and overprotective guy. It is so primal, exciting and totally captivating. That is, perhaps, the only way I can describe Chase Prestian. The guy exudes power and sexuality, but there is something so much deeper inside him that will just be unleashed by the right lady. Enters here our heroine, Katarina. She is a normal girl but has so much to offer as a professional and as a person. As you can imagine, she is facing this reluctance to jump into the life of Chase. They have a chemistry that won't be denied and she has this submissive attitude with a hint of spicy rebellion. They fit perfectly in that aspect. Nevertheless, she has a past that left her with a scar. Also, she is not used to the attention the billionaire is giving him. Any girl would be charmed but cautious.
Nevertheless, I was touched by the way the author developed our main leads and pushed them forward in such a believable and enticing way. I won't go into details because it would be a shame you were prepared for everything this author has to give. Just give it a try and let yourself fall in love with Chase and Katarina, like I did.
Fair warning, there is some bondage included in this relationship! If that isn't your cup of tea then this may not be the book for you. Nevertheless, don't think this book is just about hot scenes. It has a wonderful plot that deserves to be read and shared with the world.
September 11, 2017
Degrees of Innocence (A Prestian Seris Book 1) By Via Mari is WOW! This story has a little bit of everything in it. You will find mystery, action, suspense, humor and of course hot, steamy romance. This is one of the best series I have read this year so far! I love the authors writing style and her attention to detail is awesome! She has created a story that will pull you in from the first word until the very last. You will fall in love with these characters. They are connectable and true to life. The twists and turns that they take you on will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat one minute and the next needing ice water to cool off. They will take you on a roller coaster ride of various emotions that you do not want to miss. This is the story of Kate and Chase. Kate is a woman who knows what she wants and how to get it. She is strong, independent, and just a very lovable character. Chase is gorgeous and as you will find out controling. He is strong but yet has a softer side when it comes to her. He just makes the best book boyfriend! When these two meet by a chance situation, they have an instant connection. Their attraction is off the charts. I don't want to say to much as it will give away things you need to find out yourself. I highly recommend this book, I know you will want to see what happens to Kate and Chase. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
December 11, 2017
Temperatures rising
Reading a new author is always exciting for me because I get to read New stories New intrigues and New character's to fall in love with.
A friend introduced me to Via Mari and suggested I would love to read this book, she wasn't wrong ...I loved it.
At first, I wasn't sure that I would like for it started in first person, and I'm not really into reading books in that format. But, the character's Chase and Katarina pulled me in as each scene unfolded I had my temperature rising, simmering to full blown boiling.
Even as the plot of the attempts on Katarina was getting tO where I was wondering who was doing it, Via had me by not giving any clues as some other authors do she really had me couldn't believe who was finally. .you'll have to read it to see who..
Ás to Chase and Katarina their relationship is starting at a too fast ...needing to trust period so now I need to start reading their next part...
Via Mari's Degrees of Innocence is exactly what it says there are different levels or degrees in the innocence that any person can have and still be able to be innocent of anything.
You will love this book and as I am getting and reading the next and next....
Reading a new author is always exciting for me because I get to read New stories New intrigues and New character's to fall in love with.
A friend introduced me to Via Mari and suggested I would love to read this book, she wasn't wrong ...I loved it.
At first, I wasn't sure that I would like for it started in first person, and I'm not really into reading books in that format. But, the character's Chase and Katarina pulled me in as each scene unfolded I had my temperature rising, simmering to full blown boiling.
Even as the plot of the attempts on Katarina was getting tO where I was wondering who was doing it, Via had me by not giving any clues as some other authors do she really had me couldn't believe who was finally. .you'll have to read it to see who..
Ás to Chase and Katarina their relationship is starting at a too fast ...needing to trust period so now I need to start reading their next part...
Via Mari's Degrees of Innocence is exactly what it says there are different levels or degrees in the innocence that any person can have and still be able to be innocent of anything.
You will love this book and as I am getting and reading the next and next....
November 16, 2017
This is my first book with this author. I have not done reviews before but I felt compelled to do one after reading this book. At first I was hesitant to take a risk on a series dealing a sexual BDSM relationship, due to my previous frustration with the “ Fifty Shades of Grey” series misrepresentation of the BDSM relationships and community. However, I took the plunge, in hopes I would not be disappointed again! Let me tell you I was happily surprised. Via Mari does an amazing job at representing a BDSM relationship in a true and loving fashion through a multitude of erotic scenes. The character of Kate and Chase are easy to gravitate to their lives and the complexity I trusting and being vulnerable in a relationship. We watch the cat and mouse game play out through emailing/texting , that leads to frustrating and annoyance, but suddenly turns into a means for pleasurable foreplay. The twist in plot are unique and draw you deeper in to Kate and Chase life. My only regret it that I don't already have the second book in my hands.
November 14, 2017
Just finished books 1 & 2 and had to go back for 3 and 4. I need to know what happens! These were some awesome books and kept me on the edge of my seat needing more words!
The chemistry between Chase and Kate is off the charts and everyone around them can feel it. On a work trip they meet as Kate is performing CPR and Chase takes over for her. They have been inseparable ever since. Someone is trying to kill Kate and now everyone is scrambling to find out why. (No spoilers here)
You really have to read the series to know more cause i'm not giving anything away. But, WOW the twists and turns are a great read!
Thank you Via Mari for words well written!
The chemistry between Chase and Kate is off the charts and everyone around them can feel it. On a work trip they meet as Kate is performing CPR and Chase takes over for her. They have been inseparable ever since. Someone is trying to kill Kate and now everyone is scrambling to find out why. (No spoilers here)
You really have to read the series to know more cause i'm not giving anything away. But, WOW the twists and turns are a great read!
Thank you Via Mari for words well written!
December 3, 2017
I am sitting here kicking myself for waiting so long to start this book. This was my first book by this author and OMG I am in love, I cannot wait to start book two. I could not put this book down, THIS IS A MUST READ EVERYONE.... I loved Kates character, She's a strong independent woman. Chase was really intense, but in a none arrogant way. I loved the plot of this book! This book is an emotional rollercoaster, that I promise you will not want to get off.
September 22, 2023
I loved this book. I'd definitely read this again. If you love sexy alpha males then this book is for you. Chase is to "die" for. He's definitely book boyfriend worthy. This is my first book I've read by Via Mari and I wasn't disappointed so neither will you. I'd highly recommend this book. The characters are easy to fall in love with. Very beautifully written.
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December 29, 2025💝💝 FREE on Amazon today (1/21/2018)! 💝💝
December 10, 2017
Wonderfully written book with a very intriguing storyline that will have you turning page after page to see what happens next. The bedroom scenes were well scripted, thoughtout and brought to fruition in such a way that if a normal (vanilla) person would be considering delving into the BDSM lifestyle, or trying some aspects of it that this would be the way for a novice to approach the lifestyle. Chase is quite inept in delivering satisfaction without rushing Katarina into more than she can handle or want to explore.
Now, the storyline it self was well executed in that it brought the two lead characters together, kept the identy of Chase away from Katie long enough for her to get to know him as a person. Although the reader will figure out who he is quite quickly, it is still interesting to see how she handles his relevation. The drama in the story is written as a mystery as to how is doing this, what is the tie and why is it happening? You may figure out the who, but it is the why that will catch you off guard and surprise you when it is revealed. This was a true treat for the reader as it kept you guessing until you found out the truth. Of course there are other "secrets" to be revealed, but I'm sure that one of the major ones will come to light in the next book.
The characters were brilliantly written. In FSOGesq style, you have the overbearing, rich, handsome alpha male. However Chase is not as controlling as that other rich guy, as he does relinquish some of his plans and listens to Katarina's ideas, wants and needs as far as her career, privacy and protection. (Well for the most part, but he is a bit more conceding in this area). Katarina has a couple of issues when it comes to having a relationship with someone she works with, but with Chase being more or less her boss, she struggles with her relationship with him and the fear of what people will say about her being with Chase. She has every right to be concerned as the word spreads about them and the tabloids being who they are, begin to hit below the belt. But it is the employees of the company she works for that bring her to the edge, just when everything else is coming to a head. I had a little problem with her in this area, considering she is such a strong, intellegent, confident and competent woman. She is able to stand up to Chase regarding her privacy and safety as well as her career, but she would not be able to stand up to the gossipers??? But then, I could see that even in this day and age that women are still put out there as more sexual beings than capable of holding their own the in the business world, so I could see where the wagging tongues would shake her confidence and treaten her reputation. I was very happy to see that she wasn't too stubborn in that she actually talked to Chase and they discussed things, and events that were occuring and that she wasn't so hardheaded that she needlessly put herself in danger and became the helpless female in the story, waiting for the alpha male to come running to her rescue throughout the book. She allowed him to take the steps necessary to protect her without too very much of a fight...lol.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I look forward to reading the next in the series. I highly recommend this book!
Now, the storyline it self was well executed in that it brought the two lead characters together, kept the identy of Chase away from Katie long enough for her to get to know him as a person. Although the reader will figure out who he is quite quickly, it is still interesting to see how she handles his relevation. The drama in the story is written as a mystery as to how is doing this, what is the tie and why is it happening? You may figure out the who, but it is the why that will catch you off guard and surprise you when it is revealed. This was a true treat for the reader as it kept you guessing until you found out the truth. Of course there are other "secrets" to be revealed, but I'm sure that one of the major ones will come to light in the next book.
The characters were brilliantly written. In FSOGesq style, you have the overbearing, rich, handsome alpha male. However Chase is not as controlling as that other rich guy, as he does relinquish some of his plans and listens to Katarina's ideas, wants and needs as far as her career, privacy and protection. (Well for the most part, but he is a bit more conceding in this area). Katarina has a couple of issues when it comes to having a relationship with someone she works with, but with Chase being more or less her boss, she struggles with her relationship with him and the fear of what people will say about her being with Chase. She has every right to be concerned as the word spreads about them and the tabloids being who they are, begin to hit below the belt. But it is the employees of the company she works for that bring her to the edge, just when everything else is coming to a head. I had a little problem with her in this area, considering she is such a strong, intellegent, confident and competent woman. She is able to stand up to Chase regarding her privacy and safety as well as her career, but she would not be able to stand up to the gossipers??? But then, I could see that even in this day and age that women are still put out there as more sexual beings than capable of holding their own the in the business world, so I could see where the wagging tongues would shake her confidence and treaten her reputation. I was very happy to see that she wasn't too stubborn in that she actually talked to Chase and they discussed things, and events that were occuring and that she wasn't so hardheaded that she needlessly put herself in danger and became the helpless female in the story, waiting for the alpha male to come running to her rescue throughout the book. She allowed him to take the steps necessary to protect her without too very much of a fight...lol.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I look forward to reading the next in the series. I highly recommend this book!
December 15, 2017
Screw Christian Grey! I'll take Chase Prestian anyday! I don't know how I haven't heard of Via Mari before but she's definitely on my radar now. A new author for me today but now a new favorite. She sucked me in to this story like you wouldn't believe. I literally couldn't put the book down. I was so enthralled. The storytelling was amazing and flowed so well.
I loved the characters. Katarina is so fierce and innocent. I really love how passionate she is about her job. And Chase... I fell for him hard along with Kate. He's charming, controlling, overtly protective and so sensual. They really steamed up the pages.
I seriously have to read the next book now! There was a lot of sexiness, suspense, and emotions in this book. I can't wait to see what the rest of the series holds!
I loved the characters. Katarina is so fierce and innocent. I really love how passionate she is about her job. And Chase... I fell for him hard along with Kate. He's charming, controlling, overtly protective and so sensual. They really steamed up the pages.
I seriously have to read the next book now! There was a lot of sexiness, suspense, and emotions in this book. I can't wait to see what the rest of the series holds!
September 28, 2018
Degrees of Innocence (A Prestian Series Book 1) By Via Mari a good book! It is a story with a little mystery and suspense, action and danger and humor, with a lot of hot and steamy romance. Via’s attention to detail and her writing style find it to be an easy read one that pulls at you and makes you fall in love with the characters. He is an alpha but she puts him through his paces with her sassiness. The twists and turns you don’t expect and the suspense adds that little bit more of excitement. I was so engrossed on the story that I wasn’t sure how I found myself on the edge of my seat. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
August 28, 2017
I loved, loved, loved, did I say loved Chase and Kat. They each have their own hang ups, for him he wanted her to get to know him before she found out about his money, for her she has a problem when she finds out he's her new boss.
I loved had Kat has a spark and likes to push Chase's boundaries. I found myself laughing in places when she gave chase hassle for going all alpha on her and she stood her ground.
This story was a real page turner with a lot of plot twists and has me hooked, I cannot wait to read the rest of the series.
I loved had Kat has a spark and likes to push Chase's boundaries. I found myself laughing in places when she gave chase hassle for going all alpha on her and she stood her ground.
This story was a real page turner with a lot of plot twists and has me hooked, I cannot wait to read the rest of the series.
September 18, 2017
This is the 1st book in this series. I have never read any of this authors book. And I can say I loved this book. Chase decides he wants Katetana and because of his lifestyle, he is one of the richest men in the world he gets what he wants. Katerana goes head first into money, rich people and yes in sexual issues that she knows nothing about. She has to decide if she can be with Chase he is what I call an alpha male and into ... I'll say strange sexual needs. Can they do it ? Get the book and then you will know. I highly recommend this book.
October 21, 2017
That book was so-so... Good!
I loved Kate character. She was Strong independent women. At the beginning, I was praying that she won't be whining all the Time. I was surprisingly glad about Her way of being.
Chase... eh... He was so intense but he was not too arrogant in it. Really masculine character.
Everything Begin on Aruba with Kate doing CPR. Suddenly a Man appears and continues doing CPR. And why is he being around Kate? And who is he? Really good relationship building to me.
I need to read book 2.
I loved Kate character. She was Strong independent women. At the beginning, I was praying that she won't be whining all the Time. I was surprisingly glad about Her way of being.
Chase... eh... He was so intense but he was not too arrogant in it. Really masculine character.
Everything Begin on Aruba with Kate doing CPR. Suddenly a Man appears and continues doing CPR. And why is he being around Kate? And who is he? Really good relationship building to me.
I need to read book 2.
December 15, 2017
You ever pick up a book with certain expectations...and have them just shattered? I picked up Degrees of innocence with the promise that it would be just as good as Fifty Shades of Grey. But it takes FSOG and destroys it. This book takes you on a journey of sexual awakening and corporate intrigue.
The story of Katarina and Chase will take you on an ever deepening adventure that will have you spinning to read more.
This is the first book in the series and I can't wait to get my hands on more.
The story of Katarina and Chase will take you on an ever deepening adventure that will have you spinning to read more.
This is the first book in the series and I can't wait to get my hands on more.
December 15, 2017
You ever pick up a book with certain expectations...and have them just shattered? I picked up Degrees of innocence with the promise that it would be just as good as Fifty Shades of Grey. But it takes FSOG and destroys it. This book takes you on a journey of sexual awakening and corporate intrigue.
The story of Katarina and Chase will take you on an ever deepening adventure that will have you spinning to read more.
This is the first book in the series and I can't wait to get my hands on more.
The story of Katarina and Chase will take you on an ever deepening adventure that will have you spinning to read more.
This is the first book in the series and I can't wait to get my hands on more.
June 30, 2017
Great introduction to the Prestian world
This has been one of the better books I have read in a while. I loved the author's use of descriptive words to really immerse you in the world and make you truly draw a picture of what is going on. I love the communication between the two characters. To be in the type of relationship they are in requires a lot of communication. I also like that the book didn't really end with a cliffhanger.
This has been one of the better books I have read in a while. I loved the author's use of descriptive words to really immerse you in the world and make you truly draw a picture of what is going on. I love the communication between the two characters. To be in the type of relationship they are in requires a lot of communication. I also like that the book didn't really end with a cliffhanger.
November 16, 2017
This books was rather refreshing, after not really reading much lately I found my self reading via mari book degree of innocence.
I feel in love with they way the book draws you completely in with it opening chapter, what more can I say I love Chase he is one hot guy
I am looking forward to reading the next book to this one as I want to know more on Chase and Katie relationship together
I feel in love with they way the book draws you completely in with it opening chapter, what more can I say I love Chase he is one hot guy
I am looking forward to reading the next book to this one as I want to know more on Chase and Katie relationship together
May 7, 2017
I read all her books. Excellent read. Love the heroine and hero and the plot. Reminds me of the books for author E. L. James. I am not good at given details as I will give spoilers lol. I really recommend all authors’ books.
May 11, 2017
This book has everything from erotic romance to emotional rollercoaster. Loved it and I highly recommend.
May 14, 2017
Erotic romance with a twist. Highly recommended.
December 2, 2017
Wow
Love passion and suspension all while on the beach in Aruba. From the first chapter till the last it held my attention
Love passion and suspension all while on the beach in Aruba. From the first chapter till the last it held my attention
December 27, 2017
This is an amazing story. Kate and Chase are characters I won't soon forget. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
December 27, 2017
This is an amazing story. Kate and Chase are characters I won't soon forget. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
June 27, 2017
3.5 stars
I read the reviews for this series and have to admit I was skeptical since they mostly appeared to be reviews by friends or family or what have you. But the premise was intriguing so I thought I'd try it anyway. So here's my review....
Caution there will be minor spoilers!
It has the flavor of 50 shades to be sure, has many elements - helicopter ride, bondage, ex-best friend that is a guy that was in love with her and she didn't know, billionaire, naive heroine. She's not a virgin but is extremely inexperienced.
The writing is very formal, not quite veering into prose. Little slang is used throughout the story, big words but not where I would think a thesaurus was used, just someone that has a large vocabulary. It was as though the characters were all aristocrats, even the internal monologue were formally written. Also, sometimes the story was overly descriptive i.e. the food, but other times speedy.
The sex was plentiful and descriptive, however, due to the writing, was not very erotic. The characters spent much of the time conversing about what they did and what they liked before and after sex so it almost felt like they were in a sex therapy session.
Our heroine was mostly level headed to the point where it was not very believable. Our hero wanted her in a secure apartment building for her safety but she didn't want him spending 17mil on an apartment so agreed to move in with him instead. This was approximately 1 week after meeting. She put up minimal fuss, but quickly agreed to all his demands because she understood the need for security. That is up until the end when she gets truly ticked off (and unreasonable imho) and stomps out in a huff, leaving behind all security measures and then... well the (nearly) worse happens.
Now, for me, one of the aspects that nearly ruined the story were the many nearly sermon like almost rants about government and healthcare. When it comes to reading romance I like to avoid talk of religion, government and the such. Please, I just want to enjoy boy meets girl, boy and girl fall in love. Don't spoon feed me your personal beliefs.
I wouldn't call this instalove necessarily but it was definitely insta jump in with both feet before testing the waters.
I am going to read the next in the series now so I would say it's worth the read so far.
I read the reviews for this series and have to admit I was skeptical since they mostly appeared to be reviews by friends or family or what have you. But the premise was intriguing so I thought I'd try it anyway. So here's my review....
Caution there will be minor spoilers!
It has the flavor of 50 shades to be sure, has many elements - helicopter ride, bondage, ex-best friend that is a guy that was in love with her and she didn't know, billionaire, naive heroine. She's not a virgin but is extremely inexperienced.
The writing is very formal, not quite veering into prose. Little slang is used throughout the story, big words but not where I would think a thesaurus was used, just someone that has a large vocabulary. It was as though the characters were all aristocrats, even the internal monologue were formally written. Also, sometimes the story was overly descriptive i.e. the food, but other times speedy.
The sex was plentiful and descriptive, however, due to the writing, was not very erotic. The characters spent much of the time conversing about what they did and what they liked before and after sex so it almost felt like they were in a sex therapy session.
Our heroine was mostly level headed to the point where it was not very believable. Our hero wanted her in a secure apartment building for her safety but she didn't want him spending 17mil on an apartment so agreed to move in with him instead. This was approximately 1 week after meeting. She put up minimal fuss, but quickly agreed to all his demands because she understood the need for security. That is up until the end when she gets truly ticked off (and unreasonable imho) and stomps out in a huff, leaving behind all security measures and then... well the (nearly) worse happens.
Now, for me, one of the aspects that nearly ruined the story were the many nearly sermon like almost rants about government and healthcare. When it comes to reading romance I like to avoid talk of religion, government and the such. Please, I just want to enjoy boy meets girl, boy and girl fall in love. Don't spoon feed me your personal beliefs.
I wouldn't call this instalove necessarily but it was definitely insta jump in with both feet before testing the waters.
I am going to read the next in the series now so I would say it's worth the read so far.
September 28, 2018
Via Mari was a completely new author to me when I first picked up Degrees of Innocence. I was drawn in by the gorgeous captivating cover and didn’t even need to read the blurb to know I had to find out what was written on the pages within. I was not disappointed one bit that I had scooped this up! Bonus, is that more of the series is already available to pick up so I will be bingeing on the series right after I finish this.
Degrees of Innocence is the kick off to the steamy Prestian Series. When I say steamy, I mean steamy, so make sure that is your thing, and that you are all good with some kinky stuff too. Think Fifty-Shades of Grey. Wait though, don’t jump too much to comparisons because this has its twists too. That will lie in the suspense layers of the story. None of which was predictable and kept me on the edge of my seat.
Katarina, or Kate but really I love Katarina, is such a girl next door. She has it all together internally and smarts wise. When it comes to love and social I think she has some major growing to do. Hence the Degrees of Innocence. She has the naiveté that needs to be broken and the sexy billionaire Chase Prestian is just the man to do it. There is just a few small hitches…
I can’t wait to find out what will happen next in book two, Degrees of Acceptance! Happy Reading!
Degrees of Innocence is the kick off to the steamy Prestian Series. When I say steamy, I mean steamy, so make sure that is your thing, and that you are all good with some kinky stuff too. Think Fifty-Shades of Grey. Wait though, don’t jump too much to comparisons because this has its twists too. That will lie in the suspense layers of the story. None of which was predictable and kept me on the edge of my seat.
Katarina, or Kate but really I love Katarina, is such a girl next door. She has it all together internally and smarts wise. When it comes to love and social I think she has some major growing to do. Hence the Degrees of Innocence. She has the naiveté that needs to be broken and the sexy billionaire Chase Prestian is just the man to do it. There is just a few small hitches…
I can’t wait to find out what will happen next in book two, Degrees of Acceptance! Happy Reading!
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