Librarian's Note: This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN B00Q3480Z4
A quirky, dirty, literary, love story...
KYLIE MORRIS is not normal. She's brilliant, but naive. All she knows is her sheltered life studying the viola. She longs for excitement or happiness, but would settle for a clue as to what she should do with her life. After losing her job with the symphony, Kylie finds herself on an interview at Lust Media-an adult publishing company. Her curiosity is captured not only by the job, but her boss, Benjamin Price.
But after 14 years of hard work, can she quit playing viola to work in porn? And if she stays, even for a little while, can she handle all the kinky demands of her new employer, or will being with Benjamin shatter what little self-esteem she has left?
MILLIONS aren't enough for Benjamin Price. He wants to be a billionaire, and he's all set for expansion, but he has one major problem. It's hard to attract the top talent when you're still growing as a company, and you make pornography.
When his shy, new hire shows promise, Benjamin wonders what it will take to make her stay. He knows how to get women to do what he wants, but will he get snagged in his own trap to ensnare Kylie?
* * *
HOT SEXY ALERT: Not for people who blush at strong language and not for anyone under voting age
This book puts a realistic, quirky twist on the alpha romance, office romance, billionaire erotic romance novel. If you like unusual characters, enjoy romance as well as literary women's fiction, or are in the mood for something different, then this book is for you. Readers looking for a more traditional, BDSM billionaire, first-person novel may find the alternating third-person POV and off-center heroine not to their liking.
Lusted is Book One of a genre-expanding, new adult contemporary romance series, but there is NO CLIFFHANGER. There is a REAL ENDING. There are, however, unresolved questions that will be answered in subsequent books.
This was really good, admittedly im not really in the Know of the BDSM culture but i enjoyed it and loved the chemistry, Kylie and Benjamin had together, plus Kylie's character was really interesting and multi dimensional brilliant read!
Re read
Still stick by my 5 star rating, Kylie seems to really become stronger and more confidant with ben
Well, I read the synopsis for this story and was immediately drawn to it. Needless to say I was excited when my request via Netgalley was accepted!
A violist who enters the porn industry. Sign me up! I've never been so eager to sink my teeth into a R2R.
Did it live up to my expectations? Let's see...
To begin with Kylie was difficult to warm to. She was stuck inside her head quite often and although her personality was quietly quirky it was a little weird. To be honest I found her odd. It was as if she knew there was a part of her deep inside that was hungry and anxious to be found, a side of her that wanted to live life more fully and take charge, but it just couldn't quite surface.
Kylie is an intelligent woman. She was different as a child because she was 'gifted'. She learnt to read at a very young age, was intelligent beyond her years and because of that became anxious and cautious about the world and the people in it.
She was also depressed. That much was obvious. Loosing her job in the orchestra because she just didn't show up to practices.... Living at her parent's house... She lacked a certain vitality and zest.
*insert smile* What better way to inject more passion into your life than working at a porn publication for a handsome, broody, bad tempered prick! Enter Benjamin, CEO of Lust Media.
Kylie's naivety was never far from the surface. She still came across as innocent and a little clueless, but her confidence grew as she settled into her new position within the company and into her relationship with Benjamin.
I think Kylie's nature and personality made her a natural submissive. She was eager to please and content to do that by following Benjamin's instruction.
Kylie, although not Benjamin's usual type; preferring a more confident lady, found himself drawn to Kylie.
Initially he didn't want to 'ruin' her, knowing that woman eventually change, but his restraint didn't last long.
There is a bit of a triangle going on with another man; a lawyer who works in the same building who is also attracted to Kylie. The situation doesn't get resolved in this book, as is the same with a few more plot arcs, so I am anxious to read on.
It's a different than any other bdsm, sub/dom, rich hero, book that I've read. The setting and the characters give it a uniqueness that sets it apart.
I'm not sure that I'd place it in my 'fav basket' in this genre, but I'll definitely be reading on to see where the author takes them.
I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Check out my blog at www.obsessedwithmyshelf for more reviews!
I began this book with high hopes. I love a good alpha male / office romance / inner female struggle; however, the 159 pages of this book felt like a lifetime. I couldn’t get invested in the characters even though they certainly have issues that I should have been rooting for them to work through. For me, Kylie has some serious issues that she never really addressed. I was screaming at her to take her goddamned medication. I wanted her to take charge of her life – to get her shit together – to pull herself through her issues, but she never really did. Perhaps she does in the next book? I sure hope so.
Benjamin was aloof and impassive – two characteristics I love – but there wasn’t enough chemistry between the characters for me. Obviously there is sex, so I don’t mean that. There was just something missing. Some deeper connection that makes them so passionate about each other that they will fight to make it work no matter what.
Although what really killed it for me was *spoiler alert* when he made the safe word ‘Uncle’. I LITERALLY CAN’T EVEN. Grumpy Cat No. Out of all of the words in the English language, the word ‘uncle’ should never be a safeword in sex. or screamed in sex. or spoken in sex. I UNDERSTAND that it was a reference to the phrase ‘crying uncle’ but that doesn’t mean it didn’t make me cringe every time I read it. While we’re on the topic of things that bothered me, can we not refer to her asshole as the Virgin Star? I didn’t like it. ughhhh, I speechless even now while I write this. It made me stop. and not in a good way.
Also, for a girl who is practically a genius, I was confused why Kyle was so naive and uninformed about life in general. She fantasizes about strong, dominant men, throws herself at her conductor and then takes a job at a porn magazine but isn’t familiar with any sex concepts? That just didn’t seem genuine. Kylie didn’t have any friends to talk to about what was going on in her life and missing that dialogue and analysis left a huge gaping hole in this storyline that I think was necessary to fill.
The last sex scene actually redeemed this book for me a bit. It was well written and one of the only scenes where I felt a real connection between Kylie and Benjamin. I began to feel her become a little bit more in control and Benjamin’s honesty was incredibly refreshing. I just wish the whole book shared the same intensity and desire that transpired in those few pages.
It didn't mention in the description this was a BDSM book. I have no problem with that aspect except for the fact the book mentions over and over Kylie has mental health issues and it just seems that Benjamin took advantage of it. Kylie is young, innocent, and naive on top of having mental health issues. Due to her issues she falls prey to an older experienced man and gets sucked Into the "lifestyle" before she even realizes it. I personally think this book... Well series since it goes on...is in poor taste.
"Lusted," by Pia Sparks is such a fun read! I really enjoyed the story, characters and style of writing. Kylie, the main character, is chock full of issues and it makes how she perceives everything more interesting. If you enjoyed The Seen Trilogy by Cynthia Sax, you'll like this. It also reminded me a bit of the movie Secretary. Kinky, quirky, steamy goodness you should definitely check out. It's the first in the Lusted Series and I can't wait to read the rest.
Lusted by Pia Sparks is a fun fast paced erotic novel that while entertaining does lack well written characters. Which in erotica is often the difference between a good back and a so so effort.
It's not the worst book I've read (even this year) (oh God it's march) But like why does she have to be so innocent and like childlike?????? Why ?????? Also the dude is quite annoying tbh
Viola player and child prodigy Kylie Morris has basically had a nervous breakdown and after spending years being basically the perfect child, she has left music and has now found a job as an assistant at a adult entertainment company.
Benjamin Price is the guy that pulled himself up from nothing and now owns Lust Media; despite have become extremely wealthy, like millionaire wealthy, he still strives for more, like billionaire status. He doesn't do relationships and he especially doesn't do employees; for Kylie he will break all his rules.
The story is a 50 Shades type buy with its own unique twist and turns that leave the reader wanting more, a lot more.
The main characters were good, Benjamin clearly has chip on his shoulder, but he's an entertaining alpha-male. Kylie on the other hand, will have you screaming "what is wrong with you?"; if you're doctor prescribes you meds for some psycological issues, you take them. Furthermore, she is often to neurotic and overly caught up in her head; which is okay, because we get background into why she is the way she is.
The supporting characters were amazing; the guys in the pit were like your classic computer, stoner nerds, that always have something very hilariously dumb, yet not so dumb to say. Of all the supporting characters my favorite was by far Mistress Alexis, she's a transgender that has been friends with Benjamin since they were kids and she was known as Alex. In every scene that she appears in, she basically steals the show, or the pages I should say.
Ms. Sparks has more in store for this series and I for one can't wait; especially after that ending, talk about a tease. The story was fun and entertaining, it might not be everyones cup of tea, but I found it enjoyable, so I will praise this book.
Enjoyment quantity :: 1 stars Literature quality :: 1 stars
Kylie. Violist in a world-class symphony. Genius. A record of mental illness/personality disorder as a child. Benjamin Price. 35 y.o. Lust Media photographer and CEO. Anger issue.
3rd POV, Kylie & Benjamin. Erotica. Fort Lauderdale. Nude photographer and a violist. Adult industry.
The partition between scene was blur. The transition almost instant, still look like the continuation of the previous paragraphs, but in fact it is totally different content and even different subject / POV all together. The formatting chaos in the end of chapter two.
The story told somehow in a weird way. Like a news, a cover story, a biography. Lack, if none, of emotion. Too much naration, 95% of the story. Borderline boring. The flow seems random, wrecked. It just not made sense. The jumping scene, even jumping POV, really disturbed the reading experience. And the reason for sudden jumping was not explained. Drive me crazy, really.
Kylie is .. strange, weird. I never crossed a character like her. She is empty, almost like puppet. No emotion, no common sense. Robotic. Blunt. But her character somehow really perfect to work around the porn industry, like her job in Lust Media.
Luke Burchard seems the most normal character.
The storyline more interesting outside Kylie head. I enjoyed the excitement in Lust Media day to day.
ARC is kindly provided by Author/Publisher via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. Thank you for the chance to review the book.
Kylie was a musician, a cello player who wanted a change. She finds herself applying and getting a job in Lusted. I might not have to tell you that Lusted is an adult magazine company. Where Benjamin is boss and a dom.
At first, Benjamin places Kylie in the ‘no touch’ zone, as to him, she is as innocent as can be: flinches at the sight of confrontation and was shy as can be. But things never go his way as Kylie inches into his heart unexpectedly.
For Kylie, life has always been weird for her. With a high IQ but a personality disorder meant that she carries everything in her bag, including a sharpened pencil. In Lusted, this first book explores Kylie as a sub, and a possible love triangle with next door lawyer Luke.
While I am team Benjamin, I feel that Kylie is not a good match for him as a person. Kylie is a natural sub, means that she obeys more readily than most people, and so there was no breaking of, only training of Kylie’s role in the relationship.
Anyway, if you are a fan of Sub/Dom relationships, this is good. It is not S&M or much of BDSM but rather a man dominating over a woman. I await to see when reality hits Benjamin about the truth of this relationship.
I have to give this 5 stars. You would never know that a concert violinist would end up working at an adult publishing company and succeed very well at it. Not only quickly getting herself promoted .....but helping the company succeed too. She quickly gets noticed .... gets attention.... from not only those within the company....but by others. She is over all concerned with what her parents are going to think about where she is working because of how smart she is. They want her back with a symphony. But was Kylie really happy there? I think not. I have to go find book 2 in this series...this is a must read ....and i must know what happens as there are unanswered questions....but nothing that would prevent you from not reading this! go get it!! you will love it!
Lusted tells the story of a viola player, Kylie, who gets a job at an adult magazine called Lust. What's different is that she ends up working for her millionaire boss, and is actually an important part in his plan to make billions. The workplace romance part is pretty realistic, but because of the setting, it's very sexy. Lots of really hot stuff including a "toy scene" that you won't want to miss. I won't even write about the grand finale. This book is definitely a great twist on the typical girl meets billionaire genre.
I did not care for this book at all. The story was so unbelievable, and I did not feel like the characters were well developed. The plot was disjointed and the sex seemed gratuitous. I rarely give up on a book before I complete it but this one was simply not enjoyable. I could not eve bring myself to skim it—I just did not care what happened!
The start of a sexy new series. Kylie Morris lost her job with the symphony and ends up going on a job interview at lust Media, an adult publishing company. Kylie is a bit naive and being with Benjamin makes her more confident. The story is sexy and the characters are interesting once you get to know them a bit. I really enjoyed this story and am looking forward to more.
I absolutely loved this red hot story of Benjamin and Kylie. The sex scenes were erotic and hot- the emotional turmoil was real and intriguing. I liked the supporting characters and cannot wait to see what happens in the next installment!
Kylie was a young woman with a high IQ and an anxiety disorder. From an early age, she had learned to play the viola and after college had gained a coveted position in a world-class symphony orchestra. Her parents were very proud of what Kylie had achieved, but Kylie was not happy in herself. She left the orchestra and moved back with her parents, and found employment with Lust Media. She did well in her job, and her attraction to her new boss Benjamin soon became her boyfriend and master. Kylie became more confident and outgoing and quickly promoted to Managing Editor. Kylie decides to take on the role of Review Advisor and allows Benjamin to do an erotic photoshoot of Kylie dressed in only a corset and face mask. This book was a short introduction to a continuing series. I enjoyed the relationship between the characters and how Kylie's personality flourished in hew new job. Benjamin had not wanted to employ Kylie in the beginning, she was too innocent for the pornographic environment of his organization, but she soon proved her adaptability to the role and was glad he had given her a second chance. I look forward to reading more books in this series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily
First read by this author and WOW it was a good one! Kylie is a very interesting female MC-she's smart, quirky and just very likeable. When I read the summary I had one of those 'yeah right' moments (a genius viola player leaves the orchestra to work in porn) but somehow it totally works in this story. Lots of interesting side characters and of course Benjamin (the big bad alpha) is uber hot. Then there is the Luke, the partner in the law firm that is courting Kylie as well. Super quick read, I devoured it in one sitting. I think I read it is a stand alone-just know that it isn't if you want to know the full story.
Kylie's life has always been about pleasing her parents. When she had a tyraid with the conductor she realized that music. She became so depressed she was fired due to not making reversals. So living with her parents again she had to do therapy to please them. When she went on a job interview at Lust with Mistress Alexis she never imagined Benjamin would draw her out of her shell. Both had feelings but Megan Luke the accounting problems and her father's health were playing havoc on her. But one thing she knew Benjamin loved her and she felt safe and secure.
Great story to make you wonder if they'll keep together
Most likeable characters I've read in a story in a while! Ben seems a fairly normal guy, with a Dom obsession,and is written to make you really like him and want him to win her over!there's some competition for Kylie's attention and he seem really likeable too! But not enough to bump out Ben! Kylie seems to be an unenlightened young woman with no clue about anything,except that she seem to be written as a person of great adaptability who can do any job well but is clueless about relationships! Keeps you interested in the story and wanting part two!
Very sexy read as somewhat innocent Kylie starts work for a racy magazine and with hunky boss Benjamin. It turns out to be a rocky boss/employee and/or D/s relationship when Lucas enters the picture. Through family, sort-of potential dates, and work issues, Kylie and Ben go through some rough times to get them to where there are last. There is a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to read the next installment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Here is a book that brings in the kink straight up at the start of story. An adult magazine that employs a cast of characters, including a boss who is a dom and a girl who is exploring her sexual journey. Finding each other without compromising their work relationship is a feat. For me, the story lacks what I call a moment, when I wish, hope and want them to be together. That didn't happen for me. I do enjoy the spice in the book and find it educational. It is just did not capture me.
The blurb indicated that Kylie is not normal, but what is normal, do we really know? I would like to say we are all different and unique in our own way. She in intelligent and she has a lot going on in her head with without having the right opportunities to express, exercise or put all her thoughts into action. Now that she meets Benjamin, she is intrigued by him. He believes in her abilities and he knows how to calm her, pleasures her and give her the opportunity the build her confidence. She will have to decide what to do about Luke though. Decision, decision. What will she do? I love them both
You secretly work at a porn magazine so your parents won't find out. You're secretly attracted to the sexy owner, who is secretly lusting after you, too. On the side, you're secretly developing a relationship with a lawyer in the next door office, so your sexy boss won't know. It's a triangle of attraction, lust and sexy sex. Now you know Kylie's recent life. She's still unsure of Benjamin, her boss, but she'll soon discover his true feelings. Do you want to know?
Kylie is smart and a person who tends to overthink things, which caused anxiety. She was tired of the same, everyday routine and so she decided to delve into something outside her norm. Lust is a place for adult entertainment, and way out of Kylie’s experience but it doesn’t stop Benjamin from imprinting himself onto her. Benjamin is confused with his feelings for Kylie at first but then decided to jump all in. This book is good, and I enjoyed the sub/dom aspect to the story.
Pia did a great job with the development of characters. I could feel for Kylie with all of her problems. I could sympathize with her. The sex scenes were steamy. The only problem I had, which is not on the author, was the grammar and word order errors. It was a little distracting. Otherwise it was an amazing book.
Not one of my favorites. Too many clerical errors (not that I am the best one to correct someone else's editing skills!) Jumped around too much and not enough on all the different story lines.