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Playthings #3
Elah's Plaything
Can love be born of hate and revenge?
Criminal. Business mogul. Saint. Sinner. Self-made billionaire Elah Avakian has been called them all, but labels and opinions are of no consequence to him. All that matters is his lifelong quest for revenge against his hated enemy, a man who happens to be one of the city’s most revered politicians. After decades of planning, Elah is finally ready to get the justice he seeks. His first step? Taking his enemy’s most treasured possession: his beloved daughter.
Lottie Trufant knows that her father is an honorable man, so when Elah threatens to send him to prison and destroy his hard-earned and well-deserved reputation, she can’t believe it. She also can’t believe Elah’s price for her father’s freedom: her hand in marriage. Desperate to protect her father and convinced she can make Elah understand how wrong he is, Lottie agrees to his terms and finds herself married to a stranger who hates her father, a man who only sees her as a means to an end, a man she finds herself drawn to more and more each day…
Criminal. Business mogul. Saint. Sinner. Self-made billionaire Elah Avakian has been called them all, but labels and opinions are of no consequence to him. All that matters is his lifelong quest for revenge against his hated enemy, a man who happens to be one of the city’s most revered politicians. After decades of planning, Elah is finally ready to get the justice he seeks. His first step? Taking his enemy’s most treasured possession: his beloved daughter.
Lottie Trufant knows that her father is an honorable man, so when Elah threatens to send him to prison and destroy his hard-earned and well-deserved reputation, she can’t believe it. She also can’t believe Elah’s price for her father’s freedom: her hand in marriage. Desperate to protect her father and convinced she can make Elah understand how wrong he is, Lottie agrees to his terms and finds herself married to a stranger who hates her father, a man who only sees her as a means to an end, a man she finds herself drawn to more and more each day…
323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2014
72 people are currently reading
216 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
March 17, 2015
Elah Avakian has risen to the top with one thing in mind, revenge. Now that he has enough to destroy his enemy, he finds a better way to make him dread his decisions everyday, steal his daughter. Blackmailing Charlotte "Lottie" Trufant into marriage, the price if she refuses, publicly revealing her fathers sins.
Lottie believes it is all a lie and weds Elah biding her time until her father can get her out of this mess. She never expected to like Elah, he is a man in a very hardened shell, but there are moments she sees something more. Elah had not planned on falling for his wife and he resents it. Passion builds and Elah finds himself questioning if revenge is really worth it.
This was a fantastic read. Elah is a tough one though,, took some time to soften to him because he would be sweet and then so callous. You understand why as the story evolves. I liked Lottie, she is sweet and innocent, she tries to make the best of an uncomfortable situation. Felt for her when everything begins to unfold. Great read, will be checking out more from this author.
Lottie believes it is all a lie and weds Elah biding her time until her father can get her out of this mess. She never expected to like Elah, he is a man in a very hardened shell, but there are moments she sees something more. Elah had not planned on falling for his wife and he resents it. Passion builds and Elah finds himself questioning if revenge is really worth it.
This was a fantastic read. Elah is a tough one though,, took some time to soften to him because he would be sweet and then so callous. You understand why as the story evolves. I liked Lottie, she is sweet and innocent, she tries to make the best of an uncomfortable situation. Felt for her when everything begins to unfold. Great read, will be checking out more from this author.
January 2, 2015
ELAH'S PLAYTHING is a well written IR romance with diverse characters and a good flow. I found myself annoyed with almost every character in this one at one time or another! Being annoyed isn't a bad thing in this case, it just means that Rowan created a story that got me involved as it unfolded. It was one of those times when you wish that you could give a fictional character a good shake. The annoyance with Elah was because he was just being what he is. A demanding, aloof and high handed man who is determined to exact vengeance on Lottie's father even at the expense of innocent people. Lottie's father because he is a weak, dishonest, and selfish man willing to sacrifice his own daughter to cover his butt. Lottie's mother because she claims to be concerned for her only daughter's welfare but she doesn't really go up against her husband when she finds out that Lottie is now married to a stranger and her husband just stood back and allowed it to happen. She allows what happens to Lottie to stand because she doesn't want her husband's reputation to be tarnished. Say what now? I would have threatened to go public with all of his shenanigans myself! I can't understand a mother who allows her husband to barter their daughter away and only get a little huffy about it all. Lottie even earned my irritation by allowing herself to be used by her father. I understand wanting to protect her father who has always been the man in her life that she admired, but at some point you have to call a spade a spade. Lottie is definitely more naive than is good for her. She is in her 30's and not a young girl with no life experience. I wanted her to be a bit more savvy than she was.
I liked that Elah isn't a gorgeous billionaire but is a self made and realistically successful man. He's not a heart stopping classically handsome man. His appeal all stems from his confidence, power, and determination which I liked a lot.
Although there is definitely somewhat descriptive sex scenes you don't get it until almost halfway into the story. This is where my only real complaint in this story comes from. Lottie goes from sexually inexperienced to a somewhat adventurous woman initiating an act that many experienced women wouldn't attempt the way that she did. I felt that was a bit out of character for Lottie's personality. When Lottie and Elah finally begin to come together the story wraps up pretty quickly.
Although ELAH'S PLAYTHING is book 3 in the PLAYTHINGS series it is a stand alone story and that's how I read it. This was my first book by Lydia Rowan and I will definitely be giving her other works a try.
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
I liked that Elah isn't a gorgeous billionaire but is a self made and realistically successful man. He's not a heart stopping classically handsome man. His appeal all stems from his confidence, power, and determination which I liked a lot.
Although there is definitely somewhat descriptive sex scenes you don't get it until almost halfway into the story. This is where my only real complaint in this story comes from. Lottie goes from sexually inexperienced to a somewhat adventurous woman initiating an act that many experienced women wouldn't attempt the way that she did. I felt that was a bit out of character for Lottie's personality. When Lottie and Elah finally begin to come together the story wraps up pretty quickly.
Although ELAH'S PLAYTHING is book 3 in the PLAYTHINGS series it is a stand alone story and that's how I read it. This was my first book by Lydia Rowan and I will definitely be giving her other works a try.
You can find more from me at Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
April 18, 2015
I was drawn into this story just from reading the introduction provided before Chapter 1. The author has developed the craft of making you believe you are part of the story and makes you cheer for a happy ending. I enjoyed how she describes the characters. They are brought to life immediately and you can feel the very heated, intense connection between Lottie and Elah.
As the story continues, the writer provides the necessary background information on Lottie and Elah, along with various family members. This allows the reader to understand some of the decisions that are made and how they play into the development of Lottie and Elah’s relationship.
The author manages to interweave humor throughout the story along with creating an emotional buy-in with the reader and the characters, especially Lottie and Elah. The story quickly progresses with Lottie and Elah discovering they really have feelings for one another and not sure how to handle them. Their sexual connection is very intense with a little bit of spice. Even though Elah comes across as domineering, cold and hurtful, he has a special place in his heart for Lottie; but he struggles with his growing feelings for her.
The character of Lottie is a strong Black woman who knows what she wants and is not afraid to fight for Elah’s heart.
Elah’s Plaything portrays a real love story between two people who have been disappointed and hurt, but find the way to give love a chance. It is your classic love story with twist and turns.
I would recommend this author, and look forward to reading additional books by her.
-Reviewed by Tanya
As the story continues, the writer provides the necessary background information on Lottie and Elah, along with various family members. This allows the reader to understand some of the decisions that are made and how they play into the development of Lottie and Elah’s relationship.
The author manages to interweave humor throughout the story along with creating an emotional buy-in with the reader and the characters, especially Lottie and Elah. The story quickly progresses with Lottie and Elah discovering they really have feelings for one another and not sure how to handle them. Their sexual connection is very intense with a little bit of spice. Even though Elah comes across as domineering, cold and hurtful, he has a special place in his heart for Lottie; but he struggles with his growing feelings for her.
The character of Lottie is a strong Black woman who knows what she wants and is not afraid to fight for Elah’s heart.
Elah’s Plaything portrays a real love story between two people who have been disappointed and hurt, but find the way to give love a chance. It is your classic love story with twist and turns.
I would recommend this author, and look forward to reading additional books by her.
-Reviewed by Tanya
December 4, 2014
Loved this book
Story: B
Sex: A+
I really liked this story. I liked the others in the series, but I especially liked this one. Elah seemed so cold and unfeeling, but then Lottie made his walls come down. I liked the teasing between Lottie and Elah. There were some parts with his dry sense of humor, and her lightheartedness that made me laugh. “So I’m married to either Batman or Michael Corleone," Lottie said about Elah and I thought it was cute. The sex was hawt. But I will say that Elah was kind of a jerk during some of the scenes, but he was dominating too which was sexy. I wish that Lottie had more of a backbone, but I see why she believed her father over someone she just met. And the ending was, meh. I wouldn't be as forgiving as Elah, and the offenders didn't get what they deserved.
I also wish there was more of a tie in to the other books in the series, instead of just the main characters. Can't wait for the next in the series.
Story: B
Sex: A+
I really liked this story. I liked the others in the series, but I especially liked this one. Elah seemed so cold and unfeeling, but then Lottie made his walls come down. I liked the teasing between Lottie and Elah. There were some parts with his dry sense of humor, and her lightheartedness that made me laugh. “So I’m married to either Batman or Michael Corleone," Lottie said about Elah and I thought it was cute. The sex was hawt. But I will say that Elah was kind of a jerk during some of the scenes, but he was dominating too which was sexy. I wish that Lottie had more of a backbone, but I see why she believed her father over someone she just met. And the ending was, meh. I wouldn't be as forgiving as Elah, and the offenders didn't get what they deserved.
I also wish there was more of a tie in to the other books in the series, instead of just the main characters. Can't wait for the next in the series.
January 26, 2015
“But that feeling paled in comparison to thoughts of Charlotte, her sweet smile, her teasing, her warm, welcoming heat, the way her eyes lit up as he loved her. The way she’d made him believe, for the first time in as long as he could remember, that there was more to life than money or revenge.
The way she’d made him believe that love was real.”
The way she’d made him believe that love was real.”
August 8, 2016
This is Lottie and Elah's story. I enjoyed this couple because I like the theme of a woman with a pure loving heart, thawing out the heart of the cold, vengeful man. She uses her goodness and her love to bring out the good in a man who appears to have no feelings because of trauma he has suffered from his past inflicted by Lottie's father.
I enjoyed this story.
I enjoyed this story.
Read
February 25, 2019I won't rate this since I'm DNF'ing @ 35%. I'll just say that the quarter and a smidge I did read didn't capture me, and I found myself being aggravated with the heroine's docile response to finding herself blackmailed into marriage. Like chick, you're not going to question your dad on whether any of the accusations against him are true before you agree to marry a man you don't know? Then again her father went pale and mute so I guess that was enough to indict him. And for someone who is involved in illegal/criminal activity, lying your way through something should be second nature, but Lottie's father wilted into a neutered pissant unable to say one word to defend himself. Weak.
The writing is error free, a plus, but the content of the story rubbed me the wrong way, and it could be due to the human trafficking stories I'm inundated with that reading about a woman being forced into marriage doesn't provide an escape from the cruelties of the real world. Elah's plan to bring down his perceived enemy? I don't see myself marrying my enemy's progeny as a way to extract revenge. That would be like any one of us marrying Donald Trump Jr. *shudders* I guess it he's lucky that Lottie is pretty and has ethics and morals.The only character who had an honest reaction to Lottie being placed on the auction block to keep her daddy's misdeeds a secret, was her mama. And any relationship formed between Lottie and Elah would have hints of Stockholm Syndrome. Sorry not sorry.
The writing is error free, a plus, but the content of the story rubbed me the wrong way, and it could be due to the human trafficking stories I'm inundated with that reading about a woman being forced into marriage doesn't provide an escape from the cruelties of the real world. Elah's plan to bring down his perceived enemy? I don't see myself marrying my enemy's progeny as a way to extract revenge. That would be like any one of us marrying Donald Trump Jr. *shudders* I guess it he's lucky that Lottie is pretty and has ethics and morals.The only character who had an honest reaction to Lottie being placed on the auction block to keep her daddy's misdeeds a secret, was her mama. And any relationship formed between Lottie and Elah would have hints of Stockholm Syndrome. Sorry not sorry.
September 14, 2017
Superb as always
I stumbled across Kaye Blue on day this summer and I have read almost every book she's written. She is phenomenal. Her BBW BWWM stories have a plot and they're hot! I recommend all of her books.
I stumbled across Kaye Blue on day this summer and I have read almost every book she's written. She is phenomenal. Her BBW BWWM stories have a plot and they're hot! I recommend all of her books.
February 29, 2020
Not what I expected
I thought this story was going to have a strong hint of BDSM. I was wrong. I don’t understand why Lottie so willingly agree to Elah’s proposal. Lottie started out strong and alpha like but quickly weakened under Elah.
I thought this story was going to have a strong hint of BDSM. I was wrong. I don’t understand why Lottie so willingly agree to Elah’s proposal. Lottie started out strong and alpha like but quickly weakened under Elah.
March 11, 2021
OK....
I wish that if this was a true series, these stories would have intertwined a little. To catch you up on the previous works. Such a shame. This book also left questions. Was he really into underworld dealings?
I wish that if this was a true series, these stories would have intertwined a little. To catch you up on the previous works. Such a shame. This book also left questions. Was he really into underworld dealings?
August 3, 2019
1.5 stars
November 1, 2021
good book
Great storyline and lovely characters. Did it see the plot playing out the way it did with the characters. The surprise toward the end was a good idea.
Great storyline and lovely characters. Did it see the plot playing out the way it did with the characters. The surprise toward the end was a good idea.
December 12, 2021
Foreign Love
What a way to meet your husband. Would you go that far to save a loved one? I believe that my father would have been exposed for all his dirty dealings. That is some extraordinary sacrificial love that Lottie displays to keep Elah from destroying her father.
What a way to meet your husband. Would you go that far to save a loved one? I believe that my father would have been exposed for all his dirty dealings. That is some extraordinary sacrificial love that Lottie displays to keep Elah from destroying her father.
December 15, 2014
Beautifully written and HOT!!
I couldn't put this book down!! Loved the story and characters and the flow of the book. Elah and Charlotte were made for each other and I appreciate the stages their friendship and love went through. It was so real and a natural progression versus the usual wham, bam, thank you ma'am that most IR romance novels have. I truly hope Isis and Hart have a story next. Beautiful writing that took me in and made me feel connected to Elah and Charlotte from start to finish. And the love scenes???? Sooo HOT!!! So glad I bought this book!!
I couldn't put this book down!! Loved the story and characters and the flow of the book. Elah and Charlotte were made for each other and I appreciate the stages their friendship and love went through. It was so real and a natural progression versus the usual wham, bam, thank you ma'am that most IR romance novels have. I truly hope Isis and Hart have a story next. Beautiful writing that took me in and made me feel connected to Elah and Charlotte from start to finish. And the love scenes???? Sooo HOT!!! So glad I bought this book!!
April 3, 2020
My favorite of the series!
I read this year's ago, but it's always on my go-to list when I'm rereading my favorites. I loved these two from start to finish. The attraction between them is strong, right from the start, and it only gets stronger and sexier as they really get to know each other. He wants revenge, she wants the truth, but sometimes, getting what you want isn't always a good thing.
I read this year's ago, but it's always on my go-to list when I'm rereading my favorites. I loved these two from start to finish. The attraction between them is strong, right from the start, and it only gets stronger and sexier as they really get to know each other. He wants revenge, she wants the truth, but sometimes, getting what you want isn't always a good thing.
April 21, 2015
Elah-ted!!!!
I enjoyed this book from cover to cover! Elah was a mysterious, brooding, vengeance seeking man whose plan backfired big time when he fell in love with his enemy's daughter. The way the story unfolded was truly touching and gives credence to the saying "love conquers all!"
I enjoyed this book from cover to cover! Elah was a mysterious, brooding, vengeance seeking man whose plan backfired big time when he fell in love with his enemy's daughter. The way the story unfolded was truly touching and gives credence to the saying "love conquers all!"
December 14, 2015
Revenge
They say revenge is best served cold. He spent most of his adulthood gathering information on the man that killed his father. Now was the time to pay up. What he didn't expect was to find his ever after. She was the daughter of a councilman. The dirty deeds her father did are about to come to light.
They say revenge is best served cold. He spent most of his adulthood gathering information on the man that killed his father. Now was the time to pay up. What he didn't expect was to find his ever after. She was the daughter of a councilman. The dirty deeds her father did are about to come to light.
July 25, 2017
Not what I expected!
This was a new author & definitely something different to read. It was great. Great writing & story line. I'd read another book by this author!
This was a new author & definitely something different to read. It was great. Great writing & story line. I'd read another book by this author!
January 17, 2015
Enjoyable
I loved this story! I started reading and couldn't put it down till I finished. The backstory, the character descriptions, the editing was great. I can't wait for Hart and Isis story.
I loved this story! I started reading and couldn't put it down till I finished. The backstory, the character descriptions, the editing was great. I can't wait for Hart and Isis story.
December 11, 2014
Pleasant surprise
This was my first time reading this author, but I have to say I really enjoyed Charlotte & Elah's story.
This was my first time reading this author, but I have to say I really enjoyed Charlotte & Elah's story.
December 8, 2014
Loved it! I liked Elah and Lottie. I look forward to the next.
December 18, 2014
meh :/
March 7, 2016
Is a great book to read
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews