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The Raven Room #1
The Raven Room
Anything you can imagine. Everything you crave. For the members of The Raven Room, it’s every fantasy fulfilled. But for some, that desire is a matter of life and death.
Drawn by needs he cannot control, Julian ventures to The Raven Room, a secret and exclusive sex club in the underbelly of Chicago. It goes beyond sex. It goes beyond kink. The Raven Room is the only place where Julian finds release from the dangerous urges that threaten to destroy the successful life he’s worked so hard to build.
When the police link the Raven Room to the death of a young woman, it threatens to expose a number of powerful people—people who would kill to stay anonymous...
Meredith’s body can’t get enough of Julian. He has opened her sexual horizons to tempting new possibilities. But out of bed she’s an aspiring journalist, and The Raven Room is the story she’s been looking for. By writing an exposé on the club and its elite clientele, she plans to launch her career.
As Meredith embarks on a sexual journey into the forbidden world that Julian inhabits, questions emerge, and dark appetites threaten to swallow her whole. How much can she trust the man who has laid bare her erotic nature and how much will she sacrifice in order to protect him?
Drawn by needs he cannot control, Julian ventures to The Raven Room, a secret and exclusive sex club in the underbelly of Chicago. It goes beyond sex. It goes beyond kink. The Raven Room is the only place where Julian finds release from the dangerous urges that threaten to destroy the successful life he’s worked so hard to build.
When the police link the Raven Room to the death of a young woman, it threatens to expose a number of powerful people—people who would kill to stay anonymous...
Meredith’s body can’t get enough of Julian. He has opened her sexual horizons to tempting new possibilities. But out of bed she’s an aspiring journalist, and The Raven Room is the story she’s been looking for. By writing an exposé on the club and its elite clientele, she plans to launch her career.
As Meredith embarks on a sexual journey into the forbidden world that Julian inhabits, questions emerge, and dark appetites threaten to swallow her whole. How much can she trust the man who has laid bare her erotic nature and how much will she sacrifice in order to protect him?
250 pages, ebook
First published November 3, 2015
50 people are currently reading
1609 people want to read
About the author
Ana Medeiros
6 books170 followersWriter of books. Lover of Paris, coffee, chocolate, and zombies.
Ana lives in NYC with her husband and two adopted cats.
Ana lives in NYC with her husband and two adopted cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
November 2, 2017
★★★★ ¾! The Raven Room, book 1 of 3. Julian Reeve, child psychologist by day & depraved lover & member of the clandestine Raven Room by night!
“The Raven Room draws the most powerful people in the city and I’m going to write a story about it and one of its members.”
Books in The Raven Room trilogy should be read in order:
Book 1: The Raven Room
Book 2: Savage Bonds
Book 3: Untitled
The Raven Room (book 1) got its title from a coveted and exclusive sex club hidden in a commercial area of Chicago. Members go to great lengths to protect its whereabouts, their own identities as well as an off limits basement area.
While a young journalist sets out to write an article about the club, a murder is linked to it. This sets in motion a series of events that will unravel several lives, threaten to expose powerful people and reveal dark secrets far beyond the red walls of the Raven Room
Center stage is one man, Julian Reeve. This is his story.
Child Psychologist; Associate University Professor, Dr. Julian Reeve, Reeve PhD is a member of The Raven Room. Underneath his uncanny beauty, imposing presences and career accolades is a man weighed down by a dark past and secrets.
Sex, kink and excess are just some of his proclivities as he hints to violent and depraved urges. He is a master of omission and “lidded eyes” giving little of himself. Add to that the scandal it would cause if his membership was revealed yet there is a recklessness about him.
Ten words to describe Julian: Depraved, tortured, elusive, reserved, jaded, reckless, blasé, enigmatic, blunt and broken.
“It was the only way he knew to control the need that threatened to consume him.”
University student and aspiring journalist Meredith Dalton, M. has enjoyed a no-questions asked open relationship with Julian for a year. Not only does she get to enjoy sex with a commanding and kinky Julian, he is into watching and sharing and has no issues with her sleeping with other men and women…
Ever since Meredith discovered that Julian was a member at The Raven Room, an idea formed in her head for an article exposing the club. This would secure a job for her after graduation. After begging him for months Julian finally takes her there for a night she won’t soon forget.
Seven words to describe Meredith: easygoing, smart, curious, open-minded, caring, selfish and ambitious.
“I’m not a good man, Meredith. I just do a good job at hiding it.”
The night Julian and Meredith visit The Raven Room Julian is drawn to a stunning blond beauty, Alana having sex with very powerful man. Julian relentlessly borderline obsessively looks for her until their paths cross again. The intensity of their attraction and sexual attraction is off-the-charts.
While Meredith is busy writing her article, looking into a murder and doing random hook ups Julian engages in a secret sexual relationship that quickly takes a more serious and reckless turn.
“I can’t give you something I don’t know how to give.”
The Raven Room, told from alternating POVs is an intriguing and dark journey of a man, Julian caught between his present and past; truth and deceit; Meredith and Alana; his urges and goals all under the watchful eye of traitorous people in high places. Needless to say it ends with a shocker taking us straight to book 2, Untitled.
Addictive and dark plot! Effortless story-telling! Captivating to-die-for hero, Julian Reeve! Excellent debut!
“Don’t be one of those women who are compelled to save a wounded man. It won’t end well for you.”
***
Julian’s rating: 5+ stars
Alana’s rating: 4 stars
Meredith’s rating: 4 stars
Sexual tension rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 5 stars
Plot rating: 5 stars
Dialogue rating: 5 stars
Storytelling rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: N/A
*********************************************
Overall rating: 4.75 stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Yes.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
Thanks to my shhlut Liz for our buddy-read!
ARC provided to me by author Ana Medeiros, in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2016
4 give and take stars
The Raven Room.... Wow, just Wow. I honestly can't say much, because it is a story you have to live through. Each and every single word a piece to a puzzle of a place where your deepest darkest desires can come alive, if your brave enough to face them.
Dr. Julian Reeve has quite the reputation to protect; one breath of his extra curricular activities and everything he has worked so hard for can disappear in a blink of an eye. But knowing he has to feed the darkness in him, he seeks out what he needs behind the black door.
Meredith is Julian's young and eager lover, willing to try anything and everything trusting Julian to take her there. There is no love between them, just pure passion. He has taken her under his wing, and with that comes his protection, willing her to be cautious of her curiosity...after all curiosity killed the cat.
While he gives into his time with Meredith, there is something missing, something he needs, but we don't always get what we want, do we... Trying to make heads or tails of the mess Julian finds himself in, he is torn between wanting to protect and wanting to harm.
The Raven Room is unlike anything I have ever read before, it's mystery guides you along a tale where secrets and desires are kept behind closed doors. It is not a tale that one can go into to much detail, but the passion, the lust and the anticipation is felt throughout the pages. Julian is a man of control, and it's his control that protects those around him, scared to let loose the demons that try to break free. Meredith although young, is refreshing in the story as she fully accepts the reality of her life and doesn't take anything too seriously. At times you'd think she was the adult and not the other way around.
The Raven Room draws you in and holds you hostage, there are twists and turns and a wild card thrown in to add to the mystery of it all as we try to piece together the answers. While love does play a part in this, it is not the main focus of this passionate tale, it calls on more discovery of ones true desires and an acceptance of one's self. It is a highly intoxicating read one suited more for those who have a darker appetite. This is not a stand-alone read, Julian and Meredith's story continues on and I can't see what happens next.
ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.
While her body carries the scars we both have come to love, I carry her scars within me. In my soul. They are ours.
The Raven Room.... Wow, just Wow. I honestly can't say much, because it is a story you have to live through. Each and every single word a piece to a puzzle of a place where your deepest darkest desires can come alive, if your brave enough to face them.
Dr. Julian Reeve has quite the reputation to protect; one breath of his extra curricular activities and everything he has worked so hard for can disappear in a blink of an eye. But knowing he has to feed the darkness in him, he seeks out what he needs behind the black door.
“I’m not a good man, Meredith. I just do a good job at hiding it.”
“Are you referring to your need to be in control?”
“It’s because of who I am that I need to be in control.”
Meredith is Julian's young and eager lover, willing to try anything and everything trusting Julian to take her there. There is no love between them, just pure passion. He has taken her under his wing, and with that comes his protection, willing her to be cautious of her curiosity...after all curiosity killed the cat.
“You’re changing my whole existence,” she whispered, showing him a sad smile.
“You’re the one changing your own existence, Meredith. I’m just the man who’ll make sure you get home safely.”
While he gives into his time with Meredith, there is something missing, something he needs, but we don't always get what we want, do we... Trying to make heads or tails of the mess Julian finds himself in, he is torn between wanting to protect and wanting to harm.
The Raven Room is unlike anything I have ever read before, it's mystery guides you along a tale where secrets and desires are kept behind closed doors. It is not a tale that one can go into to much detail, but the passion, the lust and the anticipation is felt throughout the pages. Julian is a man of control, and it's his control that protects those around him, scared to let loose the demons that try to break free. Meredith although young, is refreshing in the story as she fully accepts the reality of her life and doesn't take anything too seriously. At times you'd think she was the adult and not the other way around.
The Raven Room draws you in and holds you hostage, there are twists and turns and a wild card thrown in to add to the mystery of it all as we try to piece together the answers. While love does play a part in this, it is not the main focus of this passionate tale, it calls on more discovery of ones true desires and an acceptance of one's self. It is a highly intoxicating read one suited more for those who have a darker appetite. This is not a stand-alone read, Julian and Meredith's story continues on and I can't see what happens next.
ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
***Quotes above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.
November 11, 2015
~4 Mysterious Stars~
"It's dark. Warm. Sounds of pleasure, sounds of pain, echo around me and I close my eyes. The air in here is different from anywhere else. Here is where I come to forget. To let go. Here is where I come to be alive."
The Raven Room is a contemporary blend of mystery, romance, kink, and passion. The hero is quite damaged and seeks fulfillment in some very dark places!
Julian is a well educated child psychologist. He appears to have everything together. And yet, Julian has dark desires that he explores in The Raven Room a secret sex club nestled in the bustling city of Chicago. In addition to his frequent trips to the club, he has fallen into a comfortable sexual relationship with a young journalism major named Meredith.
"There were no demands or expectations. Their time together was fun, passionate, and carefree. Just what he needed. To Julian, that made her the perfect lover."
Meredith enjoys sex with Julian and yet, she has an even deeper desire to excel in her career. She hopes to use her relationship with Julian to investigate the secret sex club and write an expose' that will give her notoriety in the journalism world.
"The Raven Room draws the most powerful people in the city and I'm going to write a piece about it and one of its members."
The Raven Room's patrons are among Chicago's elite and they are able to "play" under the mask of anonymity. However when a dead body is discovered, questions are asked and the patrons of the Raven Room are all suspects! While Julian is thrust into the middle of the investigation he becomes enraptured by a young girl he met at the club named Alana.
"In that moment Julian knew he wanted her."
"You're a man easy to fall in love with but a hard one to love."
Told in multiple POV, The Raven Room is full of intrigue and mystery. With an undertone of "sexy kink" and a heavy dosage of emotional turmoil, the characters undergo extreme transformation. I found particularly drawn to Julian as he is such a emotionally driven individual. Additionally, I was quite intrigued with Meredith and her tenacity. Alana is still a bit of a mystery to me. As a reader, I wasn't able to identify a central couple in this book. In my opinion, this book is focused on Julian. Although Meredith and Alana play a critical role in the story, for me, it was unclear who Julian should ultimately end up with. I wouldn't identify this read as having a love triangle per say. However, the dynamics are unstable as the plot continues to develop. Ms. Medeiros has created a unique plot line with intriguing characters. What is most appealing to this read is the alluring setting of the Raven Room and the mysteries that are hidden behind those closed doors!
"The Raven Room gives everything. Takes everything. It will do the same to both of us."
Overall, The Raven Room was an enjoyable read. I felt like the central plot could have been a bit more streamlined however, I anticipate the questions that I have will be answered in the next installment of the series. I look forward to seeing how this story progresses. If you are a fan of murder/mystery books (and you don't mind a touch of the "dark and sexy genre") then this is the read for you! I can only hope for a HEA for Julian, Meredith, and Alana! Until then, my kindle will be waiting!
***The Raven Room Series***
~BR with my girl SueBee! As always, such a pleasure!~
~ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!~
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
"It's dark. Warm. Sounds of pleasure, sounds of pain, echo around me and I close my eyes. The air in here is different from anywhere else. Here is where I come to forget. To let go. Here is where I come to be alive."
The Raven Room is a contemporary blend of mystery, romance, kink, and passion. The hero is quite damaged and seeks fulfillment in some very dark places!
Julian is a well educated child psychologist. He appears to have everything together. And yet, Julian has dark desires that he explores in The Raven Room a secret sex club nestled in the bustling city of Chicago. In addition to his frequent trips to the club, he has fallen into a comfortable sexual relationship with a young journalism major named Meredith.
"There were no demands or expectations. Their time together was fun, passionate, and carefree. Just what he needed. To Julian, that made her the perfect lover."
Meredith enjoys sex with Julian and yet, she has an even deeper desire to excel in her career. She hopes to use her relationship with Julian to investigate the secret sex club and write an expose' that will give her notoriety in the journalism world.
"The Raven Room draws the most powerful people in the city and I'm going to write a piece about it and one of its members."
The Raven Room's patrons are among Chicago's elite and they are able to "play" under the mask of anonymity. However when a dead body is discovered, questions are asked and the patrons of the Raven Room are all suspects! While Julian is thrust into the middle of the investigation he becomes enraptured by a young girl he met at the club named Alana.
"In that moment Julian knew he wanted her."
"You're a man easy to fall in love with but a hard one to love."
Told in multiple POV, The Raven Room is full of intrigue and mystery. With an undertone of "sexy kink" and a heavy dosage of emotional turmoil, the characters undergo extreme transformation. I found particularly drawn to Julian as he is such a emotionally driven individual. Additionally, I was quite intrigued with Meredith and her tenacity. Alana is still a bit of a mystery to me. As a reader, I wasn't able to identify a central couple in this book. In my opinion, this book is focused on Julian. Although Meredith and Alana play a critical role in the story, for me, it was unclear who Julian should ultimately end up with. I wouldn't identify this read as having a love triangle per say. However, the dynamics are unstable as the plot continues to develop. Ms. Medeiros has created a unique plot line with intriguing characters. What is most appealing to this read is the alluring setting of the Raven Room and the mysteries that are hidden behind those closed doors!
"The Raven Room gives everything. Takes everything. It will do the same to both of us."
Overall, The Raven Room was an enjoyable read. I felt like the central plot could have been a bit more streamlined however, I anticipate the questions that I have will be answered in the next installment of the series. I look forward to seeing how this story progresses. If you are a fan of murder/mystery books (and you don't mind a touch of the "dark and sexy genre") then this is the read for you! I can only hope for a HEA for Julian, Meredith, and Alana! Until then, my kindle will be waiting!
***The Raven Room Series***
~BR with my girl SueBee! As always, such a pleasure!~
~ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!~
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
November 3, 2015
It's LIVE! * Amazon US * Amazon UK *
An erotic suspense with a thrilling quality. I literally could not read this story fast enough. I needed to know if my thoughts were correct, I needed questions answered and the ending... It had me reeling in a brilliant way with the kind of cliff-hanger I crave.
The third person narrative easily flows keeping all the many moving pieces perfectly in play allowing the reader to garner the thoughts and feelings of the multiple characters that have a stake in this complex depth ridden story. As the narrative develops so too do the complexities of the story arc but I never once felt lost within the intelligent writing that had me gripped from beginning to end. I appreciated the way information is naturally imparted through the course of the prose, driving the story forward, creating suspense along with a trail of clues. The story arc is daring, carnal and erotic with intelligent writing that places Ana Medeiros in my #MustRead author list. There’s murder, mystery and sex, with a heavy dose of intrigue laced with secrets and lies. There are elements that are completely gripping and others that hold your heart and soul. This is not a romance per se but my emotions had the perfect workout and ached for the book hero and the world surrounding him.
Doctor Julian Reeve is enigmatic and mysterious, a loner in many ways who enjoys the pleasures of the female body. His tumultuous past and mysterious persona is unveiled throughout the course of the highly engaging prose, depicted through his dialogue with friends, sexual proclivities and work.
Meredith is strong. She freely explores her sexuality with both men and woman, as is the understanding in the mutually open and respectful relationship she shares with Julian. They understand each other’s sexual mentality and openness and, at times it requires the reader to suspend their usual relationship morality codes of practice and open their mind to the way these characters choose to live.
The sexual content is high. Sensually erotic and lusciously delightful with a kinky nature that may involve more than two people, but in many ways feels almost like a by-product of the story, something that absolutely has to happen because this is who the characters are. If it isn’t shown then it would be like experiencing the missing piece of a jigsaw... it would not be a complete story without the full exploration of the sexual content.
There's a catalogue of supporting players. Some I love more than others but all are engaging, character driven and play a crucial role with the protagonists in the building blocks of this story. One can’t help but believe they all have an important role to play within the proceedings of this erotic suspense.
I have to stress that this story will not be to everyone's tastes. It doesn't offer a conventional love story or sweet romance. Its raw and sensual with characters who live out their sexual fantasies and bask in the openness of their relationships with a total exploration of sexual partnerings. That said, if you're of an open-fictional-mind, like to be able to think your way through a complex story, theorize and surmise... discover that your thoughts are indeed right and still have more thoughts to consider.... If you like to be thrilled and maybe pushed a little out of your comfort levels and experience great writing than this is a MUST READ story and I highly recommend it.
*Note: The Raven Room is the first part in a three part Erotic Suspense Series. Parts two and three should both be released during 2016
Read the prologue here and find out what sucked me into the writing!
WARNING: THE RAVEN ROOM is shrouded in both mystery and erotic content, enter with caution and enjoy!
Advanced copy provided for my honest review thoughts
An erotic suspense with a thrilling quality. I literally could not read this story fast enough. I needed to know if my thoughts were correct, I needed questions answered and the ending... It had me reeling in a brilliant way with the kind of cliff-hanger I crave.
The third person narrative easily flows keeping all the many moving pieces perfectly in play allowing the reader to garner the thoughts and feelings of the multiple characters that have a stake in this complex depth ridden story. As the narrative develops so too do the complexities of the story arc but I never once felt lost within the intelligent writing that had me gripped from beginning to end. I appreciated the way information is naturally imparted through the course of the prose, driving the story forward, creating suspense along with a trail of clues. The story arc is daring, carnal and erotic with intelligent writing that places Ana Medeiros in my #MustRead author list. There’s murder, mystery and sex, with a heavy dose of intrigue laced with secrets and lies. There are elements that are completely gripping and others that hold your heart and soul. This is not a romance per se but my emotions had the perfect workout and ached for the book hero and the world surrounding him.
Doctor Julian Reeve is enigmatic and mysterious, a loner in many ways who enjoys the pleasures of the female body. His tumultuous past and mysterious persona is unveiled throughout the course of the highly engaging prose, depicted through his dialogue with friends, sexual proclivities and work.
Meredith is strong. She freely explores her sexuality with both men and woman, as is the understanding in the mutually open and respectful relationship she shares with Julian. They understand each other’s sexual mentality and openness and, at times it requires the reader to suspend their usual relationship morality codes of practice and open their mind to the way these characters choose to live.
The sexual content is high. Sensually erotic and lusciously delightful with a kinky nature that may involve more than two people, but in many ways feels almost like a by-product of the story, something that absolutely has to happen because this is who the characters are. If it isn’t shown then it would be like experiencing the missing piece of a jigsaw... it would not be a complete story without the full exploration of the sexual content.
There's a catalogue of supporting players. Some I love more than others but all are engaging, character driven and play a crucial role with the protagonists in the building blocks of this story. One can’t help but believe they all have an important role to play within the proceedings of this erotic suspense.
I have to stress that this story will not be to everyone's tastes. It doesn't offer a conventional love story or sweet romance. Its raw and sensual with characters who live out their sexual fantasies and bask in the openness of their relationships with a total exploration of sexual partnerings. That said, if you're of an open-fictional-mind, like to be able to think your way through a complex story, theorize and surmise... discover that your thoughts are indeed right and still have more thoughts to consider.... If you like to be thrilled and maybe pushed a little out of your comfort levels and experience great writing than this is a MUST READ story and I highly recommend it.
*Note: The Raven Room is the first part in a three part Erotic Suspense Series. Parts two and three should both be released during 2016
Read the prologue here and find out what sucked me into the writing!
WARNING: THE RAVEN ROOM is shrouded in both mystery and erotic content, enter with caution and enjoy!
Advanced copy provided for my honest review thoughts
October 14, 2015
Genre: Erotic Thriller/Suspense
Type: Book 1 of 3 from The Raven Room trilogy
POV: Third Person
Rating:
Julian Reeve was a successful child psychologist. Behind the façade, he hid a darker side that could threaten his future. Burdened by his sexual proclivities, he used the underground BDSM club The Raven Room to have his needs satisfied. But something had been keeping him away, until a woman lured him back in.
Meredith Dalton was an aspiring journalist looking for her breakout story. She was determined to expose the depravities of Chicago’s high society by writing an article about The Raven Room and Julian was her ticket into that world. What she didn’t realized, behind the decadent red walls laid secrets big enough to kill.
What first attracted me to this book was the promise of dark sexual perversion. I am drawn to degenerates like a moth to a flame. This book certainly got plenty of immoral activities to satisfy my need lol!
I do like Julian when he was acting secretive and mysterious – when he was acting his age and profession. I love vulnerabilities in characters but there were a few moments he was too clueless and immature for my liking.
I didn’t really like Meredith when I first met her. But over time, among all of the characters in the book she was the one I could connect the most. She was detached and driven by ambition, but at the same time she still has conscience.
There were a lot of characters in the book. What I love about it was the characters were very diverse in term of their lifestyle/social status/ethnicity. However, it could be the very reason why I had hard time connecting with them – most of them just barely scratching the surface.
Story wise, there were a lot of things going on in the book. Generally, I do like that because it will keep me thinking, but in this case, I felt it was a little unfocused. There were a few scenes I didn’t see the need to be there. Maybe it served a purpose for future books, which I hope so. I'd also like to see more "showing" instead of "telling".
Yes this is a series, but personally I still like each book to have a sense of conclusion. A few questions were answered but there were still matters that didn’t connect yet.
The Raven Room is a mystery/suspense with erotic elements. It delved into the seedy underworld of kink and crime where everyone seems to be hiding something sinister under their beds.
Books in the series:
★ ★ ★ (F)BR with my JaviG twin Mistress CC ★ ★ ★
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Book 1 of 3 from The Raven Room trilogy
POV: Third Person
Rating:
Julian Reeve was a successful child psychologist. Behind the façade, he hid a darker side that could threaten his future. Burdened by his sexual proclivities, he used the underground BDSM club The Raven Room to have his needs satisfied. But something had been keeping him away, until a woman lured him back in.
Meredith Dalton was an aspiring journalist looking for her breakout story. She was determined to expose the depravities of Chicago’s high society by writing an article about The Raven Room and Julian was her ticket into that world. What she didn’t realized, behind the decadent red walls laid secrets big enough to kill.
What first attracted me to this book was the promise of dark sexual perversion. I am drawn to degenerates like a moth to a flame. This book certainly got plenty of immoral activities to satisfy my need lol!
I do like Julian when he was acting secretive and mysterious – when he was acting his age and profession. I love vulnerabilities in characters but there were a few moments he was too clueless and immature for my liking.
“You put your needs and wants before everyone else around you.”
Julian’s words made her tighten her grip on the steering wheel.
“Is that how you see me?”
I didn’t really like Meredith when I first met her. But over time, among all of the characters in the book she was the one I could connect the most. She was detached and driven by ambition, but at the same time she still has conscience.
There were a lot of characters in the book. What I love about it was the characters were very diverse in term of their lifestyle/social status/ethnicity. However, it could be the very reason why I had hard time connecting with them – most of them just barely scratching the surface.
Story wise, there were a lot of things going on in the book. Generally, I do like that because it will keep me thinking, but in this case, I felt it was a little unfocused. There were a few scenes I didn’t see the need to be there. Maybe it served a purpose for future books, which I hope so. I'd also like to see more "showing" instead of "telling".
“I can’t give you something I don’t know how to give.”
Yes this is a series, but personally I still like each book to have a sense of conclusion. A few questions were answered but there were still matters that didn’t connect yet.
The Raven Room is a mystery/suspense with erotic elements. It delved into the seedy underworld of kink and crime where everyone seems to be hiding something sinister under their beds.
Books in the series:
★ ★ ★ (F)BR with my JaviG twin Mistress CC ★ ★ ★
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
November 10, 2015
***** 6++++ Alluring Stars*****
(Arc Kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
It's not very often that I take a chance on a debut novel and end up being so blown away by it, that it becomes a top ten favorite read of the year for me. Ana Medeiros' writing style is simply brilliant, and The Raven Room delivers so much more than an erotic story. This book was mysterious, thrilling, and tempting in a way that has made me completely obsessed with it. Every single word of this novel has gotten under my skin and even days after reading, I still can't escape it.
Julian Reeve is a successful professor and child psychologist. Gorgeous and single, Julian enjoys a very unique sexy lifestyle inside the doors of The Raven Room, sex club.
Meredith has had a sexual relationship with Julian for about a year. Neither of them know much about each other, they only share pleasure and a very open and understanding friendship. Meredith has heard about The Raven Room and she's been very curious about going and experiencing what happens in this mysterious club, that only the rich and powerful are allowed in.
Meredith loves sex, she is willing to take and give pleasure from anyone, and The Raven Room seems like the perfect playground for her. She convinces Julian to take her and they enjoy a sinful night inside the walls of the risqué sex club. That night something very special happens to Julian; he finds himself mystified by the moves of a petite redhead. With one very intense look, Julian sees himself reflected in the soul of the alluring woman.
The gorgeous woman's name is Alana. Julian can't believe his eyes when he runs into her at a coffee shop. Immediately they are drawn to each other and Alana enters the picture and actually makes it now complete with Meredith and him as the three of them start a wicked game of pleasure.
Julian has a very dark past; one he is not trying to escape but has embraced and learned to accept as his nature. He cares deeply for the women who bring pleasure and misery to his life.
The thing about The Raven Room is that while it will give you everything you want and crave in a tempting environment that is safe from judging eyes, it comes at a very high price and whoever is not willing to pay and play by the rules must be ready to face the consequences. Will these three lovers be able to escape the harsh consequences and punishments that come with the key of this club? Or do they even want to break free from it all?
Reading The Raven Room was a very unique experience. It felt luxurious and addicting. I simply couldn't escape it. The connection between the three main characters was so beautiful and raw and I was bewitched by it, in every chapter. The sexual scenes were so intense and even though they often included pain and it was between individuals who thrived while sharing partners, there was a very romantic undertone to every single one of them and I couldn't help but fall in love with this story.
Through mystery and eroticism The Raven Room was the stunning premise of a trilogy that will play with every single one of your senses. Are you ready to step inside and be part of a world that hurts so, so good?
I highly recommend this book to those who don't mind dark, sexy reads that include a menage a trois. This book is truly, A must read!!!!
My The Raven Room music playlist:
*Principles Of Lust by Enigma
*Faded (Lido Remix) by Zhu
*Friends By Brooklynn
*Together by The XX
*Fade Out Lines by The Avener & Phoebe Killdeer
* I Love You...I'll Kill You by Enigma
(Arc Kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
It's not very often that I take a chance on a debut novel and end up being so blown away by it, that it becomes a top ten favorite read of the year for me. Ana Medeiros' writing style is simply brilliant, and The Raven Room delivers so much more than an erotic story. This book was mysterious, thrilling, and tempting in a way that has made me completely obsessed with it. Every single word of this novel has gotten under my skin and even days after reading, I still can't escape it.
Julian Reeve is a successful professor and child psychologist. Gorgeous and single, Julian enjoys a very unique sexy lifestyle inside the doors of The Raven Room, sex club.
Meredith has had a sexual relationship with Julian for about a year. Neither of them know much about each other, they only share pleasure and a very open and understanding friendship. Meredith has heard about The Raven Room and she's been very curious about going and experiencing what happens in this mysterious club, that only the rich and powerful are allowed in.
Meredith loves sex, she is willing to take and give pleasure from anyone, and The Raven Room seems like the perfect playground for her. She convinces Julian to take her and they enjoy a sinful night inside the walls of the risqué sex club. That night something very special happens to Julian; he finds himself mystified by the moves of a petite redhead. With one very intense look, Julian sees himself reflected in the soul of the alluring woman.
The gorgeous woman's name is Alana. Julian can't believe his eyes when he runs into her at a coffee shop. Immediately they are drawn to each other and Alana enters the picture and actually makes it now complete with Meredith and him as the three of them start a wicked game of pleasure.
Julian has a very dark past; one he is not trying to escape but has embraced and learned to accept as his nature. He cares deeply for the women who bring pleasure and misery to his life.
The thing about The Raven Room is that while it will give you everything you want and crave in a tempting environment that is safe from judging eyes, it comes at a very high price and whoever is not willing to pay and play by the rules must be ready to face the consequences. Will these three lovers be able to escape the harsh consequences and punishments that come with the key of this club? Or do they even want to break free from it all?
Reading The Raven Room was a very unique experience. It felt luxurious and addicting. I simply couldn't escape it. The connection between the three main characters was so beautiful and raw and I was bewitched by it, in every chapter. The sexual scenes were so intense and even though they often included pain and it was between individuals who thrived while sharing partners, there was a very romantic undertone to every single one of them and I couldn't help but fall in love with this story.
Through mystery and eroticism The Raven Room was the stunning premise of a trilogy that will play with every single one of your senses. Are you ready to step inside and be part of a world that hurts so, so good?
I highly recommend this book to those who don't mind dark, sexy reads that include a menage a trois. This book is truly, A must read!!!!
My The Raven Room music playlist:
*Principles Of Lust by Enigma
*Faded (Lido Remix) by Zhu
*Friends By Brooklynn
*Together by The XX
*Fade Out Lines by The Avener & Phoebe Killdeer
* I Love You...I'll Kill You by Enigma
November 18, 2017
3.5 Layers of Secrets Stars
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
This book is filled with all sorts of angsty, sexy, kinky things...
There is an Alpha to swoon for...a challenging woman and then this added element of The Raven Room and all the activities that go on there...
Very few are members...it is almost like the Fight Club slogan...No one talks about it, owns up to being a member... but All want to go there and see what it is all about...But only a few know....
What started all of this interest for our main character, Meridith, was her driving need to be recognized as a top journalist. She will have her Masters in Journalism and plans on not being an intern doing her part for free at some podunk magazine. No, our Meridith has other ideas...
She has hooked up with a man 20 years her senior. She has an "arrangement" with him as they both "do" each other as well as others....happily sharing bedding stories of these other encounters. Meridith considers herself liberated, strong and sexually free. All of the attributes which fit her relationship with Julian perfectly. What does lack, though, may be ethics and smart decision making...for she plans to pursue this Raven Room connection for her own agenda. She plans on manipulating Julian to take her there...show her everything, experience everything and then write the expose of what The Raven Room is from eyes inside. She will use all of the experiences with Julian as the basis of the piece but without his knowledge. In her mind, there is no deception or crossed boundaries...after all she will keep him anonymous.
Julian's kink, like all the other members of The Raven Room, needs to be keep secret; it is critical. He is a child psychologist at a prestigious hospital and Associate Professor at the School of Medicine. His career would be over if any of the activities he participated in were exposed. It was the nature of this type of exposure which kept all of the members tight lipped about what went on there and with who...It was an unwritten codicil ... No Member talked of, shared about, acknowledged or mentioned the Room. To do so would mean they would no longer be welcomed.
To not be welcomed would be like cutting off a heroin addict from their supplier. These players had a deep rooted need for all that went on there... at the Room ... there was no judgement.... there they were free to be themselves...and there they found what they needed....willing, wanting participants... the other half to fulfill the desires they had.
The Raven Room was an oasis, an island onto its self, untouched by convention. Those with unlimited wealth and power played; household names and politicians stripped bare showing kinks and needs for all to see. Things happened there which would never be talked about...and everyone curious about this place feed into the fantasy and lure.
It was the lure of the Room which caused a few things to take place.
Meridith got her wish when Julian surprised her and they ended up at the Room one night.
The room had opened Meridith's eyes to what she thought she saw, what her deepest desires were and also tempted her to continue on the fools path of writing an expose. We follow the shaping and development of Meridith with watchful eyes...she has many questions and answers are hard to come by....
Julian's life has many complications...He is in a relationship of sorts with a woman 20 years younger than him...
He has an experience at the Room which causes him to shed his armor and have the unusual sense of caring and feeling for a sexual partner...for a woman who is his perfect partner in every way, only to find her missing after inquiring about her.
There are people who play important roles to Meridith and Julian...they cross paths, have hidden agendas and lay foundation for things which are to come in this book and the next.
For The Raven Room is not just an erotic romance between two people...it is chocked full of little nuggets which will rear their ugly heads in the future...There is plotting and ideas to come... all waiting for you as the reader to see what you come up with....and if you are the perfect candidate for The Raven Room.
~~~ Before Reading ~~~
What...what is this woman reading now???
The one who reads about Cowboys, True Love and Happily Ever Afters...
Well, wait...she does read intense relationships, sexually intense relationships, too...with a sprinkle of All Sorts of Things....
And this has promised All Sorts of Things happening...
With a man who has deep secrets which could destroy his career, his life...
Mixing with a sexually free woman with her own hidden agenda...
Fits the reading pattern after all, don't you think...
And this experience she is going to have...
Well, it happens while being engrossed in
The Raven Room
A gifted copy was provided by author for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
This book is filled with all sorts of angsty, sexy, kinky things...
There is an Alpha to swoon for...a challenging woman and then this added element of The Raven Room and all the activities that go on there...
Very few are members...it is almost like the Fight Club slogan...No one talks about it, owns up to being a member... but All want to go there and see what it is all about...But only a few know....
What started all of this interest for our main character, Meridith, was her driving need to be recognized as a top journalist. She will have her Masters in Journalism and plans on not being an intern doing her part for free at some podunk magazine. No, our Meridith has other ideas...
She has hooked up with a man 20 years her senior. She has an "arrangement" with him as they both "do" each other as well as others....happily sharing bedding stories of these other encounters. Meridith considers herself liberated, strong and sexually free. All of the attributes which fit her relationship with Julian perfectly. What does lack, though, may be ethics and smart decision making...for she plans to pursue this Raven Room connection for her own agenda. She plans on manipulating Julian to take her there...show her everything, experience everything and then write the expose of what The Raven Room is from eyes inside. She will use all of the experiences with Julian as the basis of the piece but without his knowledge. In her mind, there is no deception or crossed boundaries...after all she will keep him anonymous.
Julian's kink, like all the other members of The Raven Room, needs to be keep secret; it is critical. He is a child psychologist at a prestigious hospital and Associate Professor at the School of Medicine. His career would be over if any of the activities he participated in were exposed. It was the nature of this type of exposure which kept all of the members tight lipped about what went on there and with who...It was an unwritten codicil ... No Member talked of, shared about, acknowledged or mentioned the Room. To do so would mean they would no longer be welcomed.
To not be welcomed would be like cutting off a heroin addict from their supplier. These players had a deep rooted need for all that went on there... at the Room ... there was no judgement.... there they were free to be themselves...and there they found what they needed....willing, wanting participants... the other half to fulfill the desires they had.
The Raven Room was an oasis, an island onto its self, untouched by convention. Those with unlimited wealth and power played; household names and politicians stripped bare showing kinks and needs for all to see. Things happened there which would never be talked about...and everyone curious about this place feed into the fantasy and lure.
It was the lure of the Room which caused a few things to take place.
Meridith got her wish when Julian surprised her and they ended up at the Room one night.
The room had opened Meridith's eyes to what she thought she saw, what her deepest desires were and also tempted her to continue on the fools path of writing an expose. We follow the shaping and development of Meridith with watchful eyes...she has many questions and answers are hard to come by....
Julian's life has many complications...He is in a relationship of sorts with a woman 20 years younger than him...
He has an experience at the Room which causes him to shed his armor and have the unusual sense of caring and feeling for a sexual partner...for a woman who is his perfect partner in every way, only to find her missing after inquiring about her.
There are people who play important roles to Meridith and Julian...they cross paths, have hidden agendas and lay foundation for things which are to come in this book and the next.
For The Raven Room is not just an erotic romance between two people...it is chocked full of little nuggets which will rear their ugly heads in the future...There is plotting and ideas to come... all waiting for you as the reader to see what you come up with....and if you are the perfect candidate for The Raven Room.
~~~ Before Reading ~~~
What...what is this woman reading now???
The one who reads about Cowboys, True Love and Happily Ever Afters...
Well, wait...she does read intense relationships, sexually intense relationships, too...with a sprinkle of All Sorts of Things....
And this has promised All Sorts of Things happening...
With a man who has deep secrets which could destroy his career, his life...
Mixing with a sexually free woman with her own hidden agenda...
Fits the reading pattern after all, don't you think...
And this experience she is going to have...
Well, it happens while being engrossed in
The Raven Room
A gifted copy was provided by author for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
August 10, 2015
To be honest I'm not really interested in getting an ARC unless it's a book I really want to read or from an Author I follow(my reading time is limited and I'd rather read something I'm really interested in ).But when this Author contacted me I read the blurb and I was definitely interested...
There's a lot going on in this book and it's been a few months since I read it,so I hope I can do it justice...
Julian is a child psychologist and Meredith is an aspiring journalist.They have been having sex for about a year,but the relationship is not exclusive.
She wants to write an article about The Raven Room,a BDSM club.
Julian is a member and she sees this as an opportunity to further her career
He is reluctant but eventually agrees to take her....
On one of the visits Julian becomes captivated with a girl(Alana) who is having sex with another man(I know,stay with me..)
He cannot stop thinking about her and bumps into her again at a cafe
They begin a relationship of sorts.Alana is a mystery and gives nothing away about her past life or her present life but Julian is captivated by her
There is a side story going on involving Merediths step motherbut this plays a very important link in the story
There is a darkness about Julian and events from his past play a large part in this story.
I started of not liking Meredith but in the end was totally routing for her...
There is a twist
NOTE
It might sound like a love triangle from my review but it's not( cryptic I know!!)
And,of course,I've got to mention the sex scenes....which were hot!!
A promising series and even though I've got no idea when the next book is out,I will definitely read it...
Arc provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review
November 4, 2015
Secrets- Desires- Murder-…… The Raven Room is a mystery of sex, lies, kink and a “who dun it”.
Dr. Julian Reeve is an esteemed child psychologist with a dark and twisted side. He is not the man that he appears to be. He has many secrets. Secrets from his past that haunt him. But there is one place he goes where he feels he can be himself- The Raven Room…….Chicago’s exclusive underground sex club. Meredith has been seeing Julian for about a year. She is young and an aspiring journalist. What better way to make a name for herself than to write about the infamous Raven Room from the inside.
Various desires motivated people to frequent The Raven Room but once there, sexual gratification was the only reason to stay.
Meredith and Julian are friends and lovers and not exclusive to one another. He is 39 and she is 23. It works for them. But on an outing to The Raven Room one evening, Julian sees another woman who captivates him. There is something about her, something mesmerizing, and something that pulls him to her like a magnet……Alana. She is not an ordinary woman. She is someone who sees Julian for what he is and he sees her for who she is as well, or so he thinks. But Alana has secrets, secrets that she must keep hidden.
Meredith and Julian and Alana- these three have a relationship that is very unique and it seems to satisfy the needs and desires of each. But secrets and lies are always underneath the surface threatening to erupt.
The storyline is very intriguing and compelling. The supporting cast of characters creates many twists and turns. There is the dynamics of Julian and Meredith, Julian and Alana, Julian, Meredith and Alana, Meredith and her stepmom, Pam, Julian and his best friend, Peter and his wife, Grace, and Steven Thompson, the entrepreneur. Then there is most important dynamic - how they are all intertwined in The Raven Room!! As you can see there are many moving parts that keep the story very captivating. I will say that there were a few transitions that caused me to stumble while reading but it did not deter my interest.
The author writes very well and I thoroughly enjoyed the entire story.
The ending is a cliffy as this series is a trilogy. I am looking forward to continuing the series and seeing if my theories and suspicions pan out. So if you are a fan of mysteries that have a side of very steamy sex and kink……….The Raven Room Delivers!!!!
ARC graciously given by author in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2015
The Raven Room Teaser Trailer
In a nutshell - I just read a perfect book.
The first installment of The Raven Room had me hooked from the Prologue. I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting. Written in third POV (my favorite), this book is an erotic thriller for those with an open mind when it comes to sexual situations. The plot is full of twists and you'll be asking yourself 'whodunnit' throughout the entire book not to mention all the theories that go through your mind as you try and dissect this story.
I was lucky to read this with three people who share my reading tastes and we are still talking about it, days later.
Ana Medeiros is now a #OneClickAuthor for me.
Thanks to TeriLyn, JxxxPinkLady & DeannaPinkLady for yet another awesome BR!
October 26, 2015
3.75 STARS
This story has a lot going on with many characters, a murder, an underground BDSM club – the Raven Room – and focuses on three characters but it’s not a love triangle, or at least, I don’t think so.
Dr. Julian Reeve’s life is complicated and compartmentalized. He’s a prestigious and well-respected child psychologist by day with sexual desires and needs of the unconventional and kinky kind. He also has a secretive past. If Julian’s career and sexual tastes should ever intertwine, his career would be over; he’d be ruined. He’s not alone with keeping his personal and public lives apart. Those who frequent the Raven Room - the wealthy and powerful - go there to fulfill their dark and kinky sexual fantasies without retribution or shame.
Julian’s in an open sexual relationship with Meredith, a journalism major who is 20 years his junior. While she’s very comfortable with their no strings attached relationship, and I admired her drive and confidence, I had to question her sense of integrity or honesty as she plans to use Julian and his access to the Raven Room in writing an exposé about what goes on behind its closed doors. I truly don’t think this was her motive for being with Julian, I think she simply saw the opportunity and decided to take it.
Julian also encounters another woman, Alana, while at the Raven Room and is enraptured with her. Later their paths cross outside of the room and they start some sort of relationship.
There are a few side stories and several characters that intersect with the main storyline, which made for a curious web of sex, secrets and suspense.
**An advance reading copy was generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
For more reviews and blog posts.
This story has a lot going on with many characters, a murder, an underground BDSM club – the Raven Room – and focuses on three characters but it’s not a love triangle, or at least, I don’t think so.
Dr. Julian Reeve’s life is complicated and compartmentalized. He’s a prestigious and well-respected child psychologist by day with sexual desires and needs of the unconventional and kinky kind. He also has a secretive past. If Julian’s career and sexual tastes should ever intertwine, his career would be over; he’d be ruined. He’s not alone with keeping his personal and public lives apart. Those who frequent the Raven Room - the wealthy and powerful - go there to fulfill their dark and kinky sexual fantasies without retribution or shame.
Julian’s in an open sexual relationship with Meredith, a journalism major who is 20 years his junior. While she’s very comfortable with their no strings attached relationship, and I admired her drive and confidence, I had to question her sense of integrity or honesty as she plans to use Julian and his access to the Raven Room in writing an exposé about what goes on behind its closed doors. I truly don’t think this was her motive for being with Julian, I think she simply saw the opportunity and decided to take it.
Julian also encounters another woman, Alana, while at the Raven Room and is enraptured with her. Later their paths cross outside of the room and they start some sort of relationship.
There are a few side stories and several characters that intersect with the main storyline, which made for a curious web of sex, secrets and suspense.
**An advance reading copy was generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
For more reviews and blog posts.
October 26, 2015
3.75 Stars
Julian Reeve is quite the perfect package on the outside: handsome, built, wears tailored suits and is a professional, but something depraved lurks inside his polished shell. In order to satisfy his darker desires, Julian is a card-carrying member of the Raven Room. Julian has access to all the rooms in this sexy establishment, including the particular room located on the lowest floor of the building - the room where there are no limits.
Alana is a mysterious woman that has a certain allure to Julian. As he discovers more about her, she continually manages to surprise him in many ways. From the beginning, their attraction is palpable and it is obvious they seem to fill a void in each other, as Julian’s need for dominance is further fueled by Alana’s need for submission. The question then becomes how far will they go?
“Yes, I want to control you. I want to hurt you. I want to tie you up, blindfold you, gag you, spank you, hear your scrams, see your tears, smell your arousal, feel the sweat on your skin, taste your blood.”
Meredith is an aspiring journalist who is sexually uninhibited. She and Julian have an informal and mutual arrangement as fuck buddies but they also share an odd friendship. Meredith heard about the Raven Room and is ecstatic when Julian takes her as his guest one evening. Once she is given a glimpse into this world of lust and crimson glow, she is fascinated but more than her libido is peaked when certain activities come to light in the basement.
“The Raven Room gives everything. Takes everything.”
Let me just say that even though two women are involved with Julian, this book does not involve a love triangle. Rather, the plot is intricately weaved with characters that support the primary, secondary and tertiary story lines. There is something sinister happening at the Raven Room and while a few are privy to details, Meredith is intent on finding the true story. To complicate her research, a detective is also on the trail. Then there is Alana’s tie to this secret room and Julian’s knowledge of the wickedness and corruption.
The Raven Room is mostly written from Julian’s POV. He is quite likeable and lust-worthy. It took me some time to warm-up to Meredith, but by the end of the book, my opinion started to thaw. Alana remains a mystery to me and I’d like to know more! With so much happening, there is no way I cannot continue.
This is my first book by this Ana Medeiros and I really enjoyed her engaging writing style. Her character development was on par with the story progression and I especially liked the mystery and intrigue surrounding the characters and the plot. I look forward to the next book in The Raven Room trilogy!
***An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.***
Thanks to Hawkey for the (F)BR!! Now that we have all-access to the Raven Room, what should we do?? lol!
Julian Reeve is quite the perfect package on the outside: handsome, built, wears tailored suits and is a professional, but something depraved lurks inside his polished shell. In order to satisfy his darker desires, Julian is a card-carrying member of the Raven Room. Julian has access to all the rooms in this sexy establishment, including the particular room located on the lowest floor of the building - the room where there are no limits.
Alana is a mysterious woman that has a certain allure to Julian. As he discovers more about her, she continually manages to surprise him in many ways. From the beginning, their attraction is palpable and it is obvious they seem to fill a void in each other, as Julian’s need for dominance is further fueled by Alana’s need for submission. The question then becomes how far will they go?
“Yes, I want to control you. I want to hurt you. I want to tie you up, blindfold you, gag you, spank you, hear your scrams, see your tears, smell your arousal, feel the sweat on your skin, taste your blood.”
Meredith is an aspiring journalist who is sexually uninhibited. She and Julian have an informal and mutual arrangement as fuck buddies but they also share an odd friendship. Meredith heard about the Raven Room and is ecstatic when Julian takes her as his guest one evening. Once she is given a glimpse into this world of lust and crimson glow, she is fascinated but more than her libido is peaked when certain activities come to light in the basement.
“The Raven Room gives everything. Takes everything.”
Let me just say that even though two women are involved with Julian, this book does not involve a love triangle. Rather, the plot is intricately weaved with characters that support the primary, secondary and tertiary story lines. There is something sinister happening at the Raven Room and while a few are privy to details, Meredith is intent on finding the true story. To complicate her research, a detective is also on the trail. Then there is Alana’s tie to this secret room and Julian’s knowledge of the wickedness and corruption.
The Raven Room is mostly written from Julian’s POV. He is quite likeable and lust-worthy. It took me some time to warm-up to Meredith, but by the end of the book, my opinion started to thaw. Alana remains a mystery to me and I’d like to know more! With so much happening, there is no way I cannot continue.
This is my first book by this Ana Medeiros and I really enjoyed her engaging writing style. Her character development was on par with the story progression and I especially liked the mystery and intrigue surrounding the characters and the plot. I look forward to the next book in The Raven Room trilogy!
***An ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.***
Thanks to Hawkey for the (F)BR!! Now that we have all-access to the Raven Room, what should we do?? lol!
September 20, 2015
Welcome to a tale filled with scorching heat, one over the-top alpha male, Julian, and two sexy women, Meredith and Alana. Julian has a free sexual relationship with both of them but he’s mostly drawn to mysterious Alana. Julian and Alana are members of the underground bdsm sex club The Raven Room. At the club, Alana belongs to the company of another man and never has sex with Julian in its rooms. Meredith is a young ambitious journalist who wants to become member of the club and write an article about it. Julian gives her the opportunity to enter this exclusive sex club and live forbidden carnal experiences. A crime investigation conducted by her stepmother’s team who’s a police officer is going to complicate things and entangle Julian and other members of the club with the solving of a murder.
In general, I enjoyed the story and how their involvement developed. The plot is well thought out and kept me pinned to the book well past my bedtime. The author gave us a hot set of characters and some steaming hot scenes for sure. We also get lots of action and angst. Overall, I would say it was a steamy, suspenseful read that will have me coming back to read more in the series.
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
In general, I enjoyed the story and how their involvement developed. The plot is well thought out and kept me pinned to the book well past my bedtime. The author gave us a hot set of characters and some steaming hot scenes for sure. We also get lots of action and angst. Overall, I would say it was a steamy, suspenseful read that will have me coming back to read more in the series.
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2015
**The Raven Room generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
4 "That's where the beauty of trust lies." Stars
I really, really enjoyed The Raven Room. The book is quite different. Very intriguing. Many moving parts and layers kept me totally engaged. Told from multiple third person points of view, the writing engaged me throughout leaving me wanting more.
The focus of the story is the emotionally driven, Dr. Julian Reeve, child psychologist. As the story progresses there are many layers to Julian unveiled ranging a wide span from vulnerable to perverse. He's conflicted about who he is yet makes not excuses for it. He feels deeply for the women who hold his attention in this story even though he fights those emotions. Meredith and Alana the women who grace the story are both very different and take from Julian what they need to satisfy their own emotional turmoil and in Meredith's case, tangible gains for her career. Meredith turned out to be the most intriguing character for me in the story. She undergoes a major shift from beginning to end that I really felt connected to as a reader.
I wouldn't say there's a central love story imperative to The Raven Room but more an exploration of the emotions Julian feels when it comes to these women and other characters in his life. The story delves into the perverse underworld of Chicago, a kink club where crime looms provoking curiously ominous feelings for the reader. At the club seemingly anything goes including the crime prevalent throughout the story. Each new wave of plot always manages to bring the story back to Julian Reeve even when the reader doesn't fully understand why. You'll have guesses and be given clues but never truly told how it's connected. It was an awesome way to read, that feeling of uncertainty as you're invested in the prose.
In addition to these main three characters there are several other characters for whom we see take center stage causing the story to branch off in other directions however still keeping that mystery tied to one Julian Reeve making him all that more alluring. There are many moving parts to The Raven Room. Amassing emotions as the reader to each and every occurrence isn't hard. There were times when I guessed a few occurrences in the plot and turns out my guesses were accurate. This didn't detract from my enjoyment of the book but rather satiated some of the mystery. And while those things came to fruition they opened other boxes to which we still need the answers.
The writing of Ana Medeiros is really good. There were a few transitions in the story that went a little wonky but nothing to detract from my overall enjoyment. I'm quite impressed with the many moving parts in the story and how Medeiros kept all the parts related to Dr. Reeve and the Raven Room embedding him fully into each of the characters lives whether directly or indirectly in our minds. With so many moving parts she always kept the story moving forward never dwelling in one particular area.
The Raven Room mixes undeniable passion, lots of kink, intriguing suspense, and deep emotion into a story you'll want more more from. I can't wait to continue with the series as I feel the second book, given how the author very brilliantly left the first, really has the potential for greatness.
December 1, 2015
I've read a lot of NA and it just doesn't work for me. So I was a bit worried about this book since it was Erotica and BDSM and it's just not what I'm used to reading. So this is a review from someone that usually don't read this genre.
I was surprised and pleased how good this book is. As I stated above, this is not my genre of books. But after months of trying to read NA and being frustrated with the lack of a good story and plenty of one dimension character and boring sex scenes have I read a book that worked. So apparently a well-written erotica works for me. And, I think that this book works so good is that is has a very interesting story. We have a sex club with important members, a murder mystery, the mysterious Alana and Julian who has a dark past and together they make this story worth reading. I do admit that I after a while found that the sex scenes took too much place in the story. I don't mind the kinkiness, the three-way or anything, well the sex scene in the bookstore was a bit too much, I mean those poor books could have been hurt, but anyway no matter how well written they were I just wanted to know more about the case, about Alana etc. It felt sometimes that two (or three) people couldn't meet in this book without sex. So that felt like a draw back.
But despite that was the book good. I was surprised when I learned why Julian doesn't want to spend time with his best friends twins. I didn't expect that. Also, the ending, I was expecting something like that in a way. Hard to explain without giving it away. Let's ay it ended in a way that makes me really wanting to read the next book in this series.
3.5 stars
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for a blog tour at TLC Book Tours.
I was surprised and pleased how good this book is. As I stated above, this is not my genre of books. But after months of trying to read NA and being frustrated with the lack of a good story and plenty of one dimension character and boring sex scenes have I read a book that worked. So apparently a well-written erotica works for me. And, I think that this book works so good is that is has a very interesting story. We have a sex club with important members, a murder mystery, the mysterious Alana and Julian who has a dark past and together they make this story worth reading. I do admit that I after a while found that the sex scenes took too much place in the story. I don't mind the kinkiness, the three-way or anything, well the sex scene in the bookstore was a bit too much, I mean those poor books could have been hurt, but anyway no matter how well written they were I just wanted to know more about the case, about Alana etc. It felt sometimes that two (or three) people couldn't meet in this book without sex. So that felt like a draw back.
But despite that was the book good. I was surprised when I learned why Julian doesn't want to spend time with his best friends twins. I didn't expect that. Also, the ending, I was expecting something like that in a way. Hard to explain without giving it away. Let's ay it ended in a way that makes me really wanting to read the next book in this series.
3.5 stars
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for a blog tour at TLC Book Tours.
March 30, 2024
**Reread in 2024**
New book in the series means new reread. Let’s gooo.
And I still love it. I do think it was slow in the middle a bit but it’s needed for the build up too. I was pleased. Starting the reread of book two. Hopefully I can get to the third book arc this month smh.
**Reread in 2017**
**Original review 2015**
WHAT THE FUCK!?
Oh I have so much to say, but I really don't want to spoil anything for anyone...
Just...wtf. I am freaking out right now over the ending of this book!
Ok, so let me back up. I started reading this book sometime yesterday. I was thinking, oh this book is really good so far. Good plot. Great characters. But then I read the last, what, 10% 20% 30% of the book and I'm legit going bat-shit crazy trying to solve this amazing puzzle given to me by the writer of this book!
I was reading this book all day today, so I'm so emotionally connected to this book, characters, and all. So to come to the ending of this book. Speechless.
Oh I actually really loved the Alana character! AND I have my own thoughts of who she is, but I won't express what they are until I know I'm either correct or wrong. Just to read the ending is............
Meredith just got on my nerves have the time. So not many comments from me on that one!
And that great, but so sadly disturbed man, (did I say he's hot in my mind already?) is amazing. Yes he has issues, but everyone has issues/demons in their life, so I really do feel for him. He's my second favorite character :) (Alana's my first!)
This book was great. Even though more than 1 thing bothered me with different details presented in the book, it's still a good (emotional) read. I give it 5 out of 5!
**ARC provided by Netgalley**
New book in the series means new reread. Let’s gooo.
And I still love it. I do think it was slow in the middle a bit but it’s needed for the build up too. I was pleased. Starting the reread of book two. Hopefully I can get to the third book arc this month smh.
**Reread in 2017**
**Original review 2015**
WHAT THE FUCK!?
Oh I have so much to say, but I really don't want to spoil anything for anyone...
Just...wtf. I am freaking out right now over the ending of this book!
Ok, so let me back up. I started reading this book sometime yesterday. I was thinking, oh this book is really good so far. Good plot. Great characters. But then I read the last, what, 10% 20% 30% of the book and I'm legit going bat-shit crazy trying to solve this amazing puzzle given to me by the writer of this book!
I was reading this book all day today, so I'm so emotionally connected to this book, characters, and all. So to come to the ending of this book. Speechless.
Oh I actually really loved the Alana character! AND I have my own thoughts of who she is, but I won't express what they are until I know I'm either correct or wrong. Just to read the ending is............
Meredith just got on my nerves have the time. So not many comments from me on that one!
And that great, but so sadly disturbed man, (did I say he's hot in my mind already?) is amazing. Yes he has issues, but everyone has issues/demons in their life, so I really do feel for him. He's my second favorite character :) (Alana's my first!)
This book was great. Even though more than 1 thing bothered me with different details presented in the book, it's still a good (emotional) read. I give it 5 out of 5!
**ARC provided by Netgalley**
November 3, 2015
★★★3.5 Stars ★★★
"Sometimes we do things that hurt the people we love".
I LOVE a good "dark read".The mystery,the erotic thrill and that carnal sensation when written correctly,is the best.Is there something wrong me with me?I don't know but I could care less So when I read the blurb for this story I was immediately drawn to this story.
Julian Reeve is child psychologist and he's very good at what he does.On the outside, he seems to have it all put together.On the inside,he's a mess.He craves things, unatural things, but something made him that way.
"I'm not a good man, Meredith. I just do a good job at hiding it".
Being involved with Meredith Dalton, a much younger woman,life is pretty good.But Meredith has her own agenda and that includes getting into one of the most exclusive sex club in Chicago "The Raven Room".As a journalist she's looking for her next big story and "The Raven Room" has it along with a string of murders.
Finally agreeing to take Meredith to the raven room for the first time, Julian meets another woman named Alana and he's immediately attracted to her.Having never experienced something like that before,he's caught off guard but his interest in Alana has peaked an all time high.
What I loved about this story was the dark mystery and eroticism. Unfortunately there were too many characters in this story and at first I had a hard time keeping up with who was who.I didn't really connect with Meredith or Julian and for that, it took away my enjoyment of the story.I really liked Alana and I wanted to know more about her but as the story progressed,I ended up guessing almost the entire plot and when I read the cliffhanger,I wasn't suprised at all.
That being said,I will read part two because I have to know what's going to happen now and how these characters will fit into the the next stage of the story.
"You're a man easy to fall in love with but a hard one to love".
*Arc kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.Thank you!!
"Sometimes we do things that hurt the people we love".
I LOVE a good "dark read".The mystery,the erotic thrill and that carnal sensation when written correctly,is the best.Is there something wrong me with me?I don't know but I could care less So when I read the blurb for this story I was immediately drawn to this story.
Julian Reeve is child psychologist and he's very good at what he does.On the outside, he seems to have it all put together.On the inside,he's a mess.He craves things, unatural things, but something made him that way.
"I'm not a good man, Meredith. I just do a good job at hiding it".
Being involved with Meredith Dalton, a much younger woman,life is pretty good.But Meredith has her own agenda and that includes getting into one of the most exclusive sex club in Chicago "The Raven Room".As a journalist she's looking for her next big story and "The Raven Room" has it along with a string of murders.
Finally agreeing to take Meredith to the raven room for the first time, Julian meets another woman named Alana and he's immediately attracted to her.Having never experienced something like that before,he's caught off guard but his interest in Alana has peaked an all time high.
What I loved about this story was the dark mystery and eroticism. Unfortunately there were too many characters in this story and at first I had a hard time keeping up with who was who.I didn't really connect with Meredith or Julian and for that, it took away my enjoyment of the story.I really liked Alana and I wanted to know more about her but as the story progressed,I ended up guessing almost the entire plot and when I read the cliffhanger,I wasn't suprised at all.
That being said,I will read part two because I have to know what's going to happen now and how these characters will fit into the the next stage of the story.
"You're a man easy to fall in love with but a hard one to love".
*Arc kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.Thank you!!
October 16, 2017
Ana Medeiros has made an impressive debut with this intriguing tale of mystery, danger, desire, and despair.
Julian is a child psychologist and Associate Professor of Medicine. He also happens to be a member of The Raven Room, an exclusive underground Chicago sex club where no-holds-barred kink is openly explored. Although he tries to suppress his dark sexual proclivities, he’s regularly drawn to the club, which could be a career ender if his involvement is ever leaked.
Julian has been in an affectionate but nonexclusive year-long relationship with Meredith, a sexually adventurous grad student. He struggles with his identity and deprives himself of his urges when he’s with Meredith. Meredith is an aspiring journalist who is using Julian to gain entrance to The Raven Room. An exposé could be her big career break. After much cajoling on Meredith’s part, Julian agrees to take her to the club.
At The Red Room, Julian encounters a mysterious woman named Alana, in whom he senses a kindred spirit. When she disappears, he desperately tries to find her. Maybe she will help him finally feel connected to someone. Maybe she will help him find himself.
Julian is a complicated character to describe because he’s so reserved and reveals little of himself throughout the majority of the book. Medeiros takes the reader on a journey of discovery as Julian recalls his past and tries to comprehend his sexual compulsions.
There is a lot going on in this book, and it borders on being overwhelming. There’s Julian’s past; the love triangle between Julian, Alana, and Meredith (although I hesitate to categorize it as such); a murder tied to The Red Room; Alana’s secrecy; dark BDSM; the ebb and flow of Meredith’s and Julian’s relationship; a tense side plot involving Julian’s friends; and Meredith’s investigative article. Even though I didn’t always understand how the sub-plots tied in together or the characters’ motivations, the story kept me interested, and the writing is quite good.
The book ends on one heck of a cliffhanger, and I’m definitely intrigued enough to read book two.
Julian is a child psychologist and Associate Professor of Medicine. He also happens to be a member of The Raven Room, an exclusive underground Chicago sex club where no-holds-barred kink is openly explored. Although he tries to suppress his dark sexual proclivities, he’s regularly drawn to the club, which could be a career ender if his involvement is ever leaked.
Julian has been in an affectionate but nonexclusive year-long relationship with Meredith, a sexually adventurous grad student. He struggles with his identity and deprives himself of his urges when he’s with Meredith. Meredith is an aspiring journalist who is using Julian to gain entrance to The Raven Room. An exposé could be her big career break. After much cajoling on Meredith’s part, Julian agrees to take her to the club.
At The Red Room, Julian encounters a mysterious woman named Alana, in whom he senses a kindred spirit. When she disappears, he desperately tries to find her. Maybe she will help him finally feel connected to someone. Maybe she will help him find himself.
Julian is a complicated character to describe because he’s so reserved and reveals little of himself throughout the majority of the book. Medeiros takes the reader on a journey of discovery as Julian recalls his past and tries to comprehend his sexual compulsions.
There is a lot going on in this book, and it borders on being overwhelming. There’s Julian’s past; the love triangle between Julian, Alana, and Meredith (although I hesitate to categorize it as such); a murder tied to The Red Room; Alana’s secrecy; dark BDSM; the ebb and flow of Meredith’s and Julian’s relationship; a tense side plot involving Julian’s friends; and Meredith’s investigative article. Even though I didn’t always understand how the sub-plots tied in together or the characters’ motivations, the story kept me interested, and the writing is quite good.
The book ends on one heck of a cliffhanger, and I’m definitely intrigued enough to read book two.
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review.**
September 6, 2015
I'll post the full review some other day when I have more time. For now all I have to say is that it reads as a first draft. I hope the author hires an editor and gets couple of beta readers before publishing it. The book has the potential, but there is a lot of work that needs to be done.
Read
June 30, 2015DNF 77% - No rating
I really tried to finish this book because I was very curious what was the deal with The Raven Room and Julian but I couldn't...
I don't know why but I did not enjoy the writing style of the book and how it jumped from one character to another. For that reason (I think) I did not feel any connection to the characters or between them.
The story itself was interesting but not enough to hold my interest to the end...and that's why I chose instead of the low rating I usually give books that I DNF to hold back from rating this one and let each one of you make your own mind about this novel.
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
I really tried to finish this book because I was very curious what was the deal with The Raven Room and Julian but I couldn't...
I don't know why but I did not enjoy the writing style of the book and how it jumped from one character to another. For that reason (I think) I did not feel any connection to the characters or between them.
The story itself was interesting but not enough to hold my interest to the end...and that's why I chose instead of the low rating I usually give books that I DNF to hold back from rating this one and let each one of you make your own mind about this novel.
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
November 18, 2015
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review
June 29, 2015
Review copy courtesy of the author.
One word: Cliffhanger.
It should be no surprise by now to you, dear readers, that I don't care for cliffhangers. I don't actually understand why ANY reader would. I honestly can't think of a good reason for them other than to sell more books. I feel like I get tricked and duped by corporations on a daily basis as it is; it's hurtful and irritating when a similar trickery is employed by my beloved authors.
There is a very serious and dark BDSM element going on in the background of The Raven Room. There's not a lot of BDSM on the page though, if any. It's more hinted at as something malevolent happening in the dark, in the basement. I had no issue with that and the Sexy Time is plentiful. But for an erotic romance, which is what I think this book is supposed to be, I found that the Sexy Time was only mildly hot. It was rough and occasionally salacious but it didn't get my blood pumping the way most sex scenes do.
The characters were all complex and very interesting with diverse backgrounds and motivations but I just didn't give a damn about any of them. Julian, the main male character, seemed like a half way decent guy who also happens to maybe be one sick puppy. He has a typical tragic back story but it wasn't enough to make me care about him more than a little. Meredith, one of the main females, really felt like a scheming slutbag with steamer trunk amount of unhealthy baggage. I was surprised that the author wanted the reader to care about this woman who is clearly playing Julian for a fool. She supposedly likes, possibly loves Julian, but continues to plan on writing her expose on him and The Raven Room for a to-be published article. I didn't like her from the start and never warmed up to her. The third main character, also a woman and also severely damaged, was thrown into the mix but I felt like I knew so little about her that I can't even remember her name. This is not a big problem because I didn't really have much of an opinion of her, one way or the other.
The Raven Room ends on a cliffhanger and as of this writing, there is no entry on Goodreads regarding a second book, or if/when it would be published.
This is an extremely dark story and, in my opinion, it had absolutely no romance in it. I found that I had no sympathy for any of the seriously damaged characters, who seemed to be using sex as some kind of fucked up coping mechanism. The fact that Julian is a psychologist/psychiatrist just made him feel a bit ridiculous to me. There were no laughs and no action; nothing really happens and nothing is resolved. I definitely had more questions than answers by the end of the book. I think The Raven Room may be enjoyed by readers who like intense psychological dramas/mysteries. I loved the writing and I think this author is one to watch but with no romance and lots of lukewarm sex, I can't recommend this book (series?) to anyone that I know.
One word: Cliffhanger.
It should be no surprise by now to you, dear readers, that I don't care for cliffhangers. I don't actually understand why ANY reader would. I honestly can't think of a good reason for them other than to sell more books. I feel like I get tricked and duped by corporations on a daily basis as it is; it's hurtful and irritating when a similar trickery is employed by my beloved authors.
There is a very serious and dark BDSM element going on in the background of The Raven Room. There's not a lot of BDSM on the page though, if any. It's more hinted at as something malevolent happening in the dark, in the basement. I had no issue with that and the Sexy Time is plentiful. But for an erotic romance, which is what I think this book is supposed to be, I found that the Sexy Time was only mildly hot. It was rough and occasionally salacious but it didn't get my blood pumping the way most sex scenes do.
The characters were all complex and very interesting with diverse backgrounds and motivations but I just didn't give a damn about any of them. Julian, the main male character, seemed like a half way decent guy who also happens to maybe be one sick puppy. He has a typical tragic back story but it wasn't enough to make me care about him more than a little. Meredith, one of the main females, really felt like a scheming slutbag with steamer trunk amount of unhealthy baggage. I was surprised that the author wanted the reader to care about this woman who is clearly playing Julian for a fool. She supposedly likes, possibly loves Julian, but continues to plan on writing her expose on him and The Raven Room for a to-be published article. I didn't like her from the start and never warmed up to her. The third main character, also a woman and also severely damaged, was thrown into the mix but I felt like I knew so little about her that I can't even remember her name. This is not a big problem because I didn't really have much of an opinion of her, one way or the other.
The Raven Room ends on a cliffhanger and as of this writing, there is no entry on Goodreads regarding a second book, or if/when it would be published.
This is an extremely dark story and, in my opinion, it had absolutely no romance in it. I found that I had no sympathy for any of the seriously damaged characters, who seemed to be using sex as some kind of fucked up coping mechanism. The fact that Julian is a psychologist/psychiatrist just made him feel a bit ridiculous to me. There were no laughs and no action; nothing really happens and nothing is resolved. I definitely had more questions than answers by the end of the book. I think The Raven Room may be enjoyed by readers who like intense psychological dramas/mysteries. I loved the writing and I think this author is one to watch but with no romance and lots of lukewarm sex, I can't recommend this book (series?) to anyone that I know.
November 5, 2015
*** ARC kindly provided by Diversion Books, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. ***
The Raven Room is the first book written by Ana Medeiros.
Julian is a child psychologist and professor. He loves lots of non-committed sex and his kink is in causing pain to his women. He’s in an open relationship with bi-sexual Meredith. They are both using each other for sex for some time now but since Meredith heard about The Raven Room she’s intrigued and uses Julian as a means to an end to get the story that should start her career as a journalist. Julian finally caves and takes Meredith to the mysterious, secret sex club The Raven Room. Here he first sees Alana. There is an immediate magnetism between them and after a chance encounter they start seeing each other more often. This is where I’ll stop telling about the story because I don’t want to spoil it for you but I do want to point out that this is NOT a love triangle!
This story is told from different POV’s. Besides Julian, Meredith and Alana we get to know several interesting side characters. One of those is Meredith’s stepmom Pamela. She’s investigating murder, possibly linked to The Raven Room… which is sort of a side-story in this book but relevant. Meredith uses Pam to find out more information on Julian, Alana and the 2 little girls from Julian’s past. But is that a smart decision?
Besides that we also get to meet Julian’s friend Peter and his wife Grace and ‘their’ kids Eli and Seth. I’m not really sure yet what their role in this story will be but I guess we’ll find out in the next books.
This was a well written, exciting book with hot sex and a few nice twists & revelations. I had a small suspicion concerning Alana but I’ll have to wait until the second book to find out if I’m correct. Hopefully that second book will answer all the new questions that popped up while reading …
Be warned this is NOT a romance and there is no HEA (yet)!
The Raven Room is the first book written by Ana Medeiros.
Julian is a child psychologist and professor. He loves lots of non-committed sex and his kink is in causing pain to his women. He’s in an open relationship with bi-sexual Meredith. They are both using each other for sex for some time now but since Meredith heard about The Raven Room she’s intrigued and uses Julian as a means to an end to get the story that should start her career as a journalist. Julian finally caves and takes Meredith to the mysterious, secret sex club The Raven Room. Here he first sees Alana. There is an immediate magnetism between them and after a chance encounter they start seeing each other more often. This is where I’ll stop telling about the story because I don’t want to spoil it for you but I do want to point out that this is NOT a love triangle!
This story is told from different POV’s. Besides Julian, Meredith and Alana we get to know several interesting side characters. One of those is Meredith’s stepmom Pamela. She’s investigating murder, possibly linked to The Raven Room… which is sort of a side-story in this book but relevant. Meredith uses Pam to find out more information on Julian, Alana and the 2 little girls from Julian’s past. But is that a smart decision?
Besides that we also get to meet Julian’s friend Peter and his wife Grace and ‘their’ kids Eli and Seth. I’m not really sure yet what their role in this story will be but I guess we’ll find out in the next books.
This was a well written, exciting book with hot sex and a few nice twists & revelations. I had a small suspicion concerning Alana but I’ll have to wait until the second book to find out if I’m correct. Hopefully that second book will answer all the new questions that popped up while reading …
Be warned this is NOT a romance and there is no HEA (yet)!
February 12, 2016
If you like mystery, thrillers and sex in equal measure, you'll love The Raven Room. I did!
It's beautifully written book story about Meridith, a precocious young journalist, who is desperate to learn more about Julian, her older/mysterious lover... Julian belongs to an exclusive underground sex club and Meridith wants into his world, but when she's finally offered a glimpse of what is happening behind the club's closed doors, what was initially just curiosity dovetails into a disturbing murder mystery that she is determined to get to the bottom of.
The plot is great, but I think what's most compelling about this book are the complex and interesting characters that populate this world. No one is innocent and everyone has a dark side...yet all our main characters are shaped as well meaning people who care for each other...their individual secrets, which remain secrets for good reason, are pulling them apart and I was equally engrossed in the interpersonal drama as I was to the story's lager plot machinations.
And then there's the sex -- which plays a central role in the story and is written extremely well (ie. it's super hot!) This is not erotica (although I don't read erotica, so I can't say for sure), but it definitely is explicit and compelling. This book is a turn on, and if it doesn't get you excited then you don't have a pulse.
I'd recommend TRR to anyone looking for a well written, sexually charged mystery!
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
It's beautifully written book story about Meridith, a precocious young journalist, who is desperate to learn more about Julian, her older/mysterious lover... Julian belongs to an exclusive underground sex club and Meridith wants into his world, but when she's finally offered a glimpse of what is happening behind the club's closed doors, what was initially just curiosity dovetails into a disturbing murder mystery that she is determined to get to the bottom of.
The plot is great, but I think what's most compelling about this book are the complex and interesting characters that populate this world. No one is innocent and everyone has a dark side...yet all our main characters are shaped as well meaning people who care for each other...their individual secrets, which remain secrets for good reason, are pulling them apart and I was equally engrossed in the interpersonal drama as I was to the story's lager plot machinations.
And then there's the sex -- which plays a central role in the story and is written extremely well (ie. it's super hot!) This is not erotica (although I don't read erotica, so I can't say for sure), but it definitely is explicit and compelling. This book is a turn on, and if it doesn't get you excited then you don't have a pulse.
I'd recommend TRR to anyone looking for a well written, sexually charged mystery!
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Read
November 5, 2015DNF @10%. no rating.
October 30, 2015
The Raven Room is an underground sex club in Chicago and is being linked to the deaths of several women. This is a dark mystery with some erotic elements and hints of BDSM. It is the first book in a trilogy. The remaining two are due to be published some time in 2016. Hence, if you don't like cliffhanger endings, wait until next year before reading this. You guessed it, there's a huge cliffhanger at the end of this. This is a character driven story, and the pace is initially quite slow as characters and relationships are introduced and their histories revealed. But the tension and suspense builds steadily and by 75% through the book, I couldn't put it down until I reached that frustrating cliffhanger.
All the characters are truly messed up people. And not just slightly flawed, but seriously disturbed. That includes above all the main character, Julian, who is a child psychologist of all things. That truly troubled me initially, but by the time I got to the end of the book, I was over it, and I could actually understand why the author may have gone down that route.
Julian is being used by Meredith to get access to the Raven Room because she wants to further her career and write a story about it. Meredith starts out as self-centered, but she actually develops some positive traits towards the end.
The erotic elements were lukewarm. Don't expect steamy romance with happily ever after, it's not that kind of book. This is seriously lurid and disturbing. And that was the main reason why I kept reading it. The characters were unique in their different ways of being messed up, and although I didn't like a single one of them, they were really intriguing to get to know. For a debut novel, this was very well written, and that cliffhanger left me wanting more.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
All the characters are truly messed up people. And not just slightly flawed, but seriously disturbed. That includes above all the main character, Julian, who is a child psychologist of all things. That truly troubled me initially, but by the time I got to the end of the book, I was over it, and I could actually understand why the author may have gone down that route.
Julian is being used by Meredith to get access to the Raven Room because she wants to further her career and write a story about it. Meredith starts out as self-centered, but she actually develops some positive traits towards the end.
The erotic elements were lukewarm. Don't expect steamy romance with happily ever after, it's not that kind of book. This is seriously lurid and disturbing. And that was the main reason why I kept reading it. The characters were unique in their different ways of being messed up, and although I didn't like a single one of them, they were really intriguing to get to know. For a debut novel, this was very well written, and that cliffhanger left me wanting more.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
October 18, 2015
This digital arc was given courtesy of Diversion Books via Netgalley.
"The Raven Room gives everything. Takes everything."
Raven Room is one difficult puzzling mysterious read. For books under romancelandia or erotica, this book has been true to its promise. And before I write more and forget it, I have to say with all fairness to the beautifully compelling writing of the author. The book had me when Alana, one of the main FCs, made a love affair out of her words describing Julian's life. Needless to say that this is not the usual romance archetype of boy meets girl and happy ending. At first, it had me settling with Meredith and Julian as the OTP. Which Meredith's character is a real bitch with all her motives to having Julian at close. Julian Reeve, the main MC, is another complicated and hard to love character. As a child psychologist and associate professor, he is one hell of a problem with his sick sexual pleasure.
I wonder how this book will continue its mysteries and how the characters resolve their issues.For the book has ended with the following wonders.
As readers don't have any clue who the murderer is. Is is one of the twins? Or Am I correct in guessing that Alana is either Sofia or Tatia?
How will Pete react by the time Julian reveals that he's the father of the of the twins, Seth and Eli or he himself discovers it?
How will Julian face the love of Meredith, whom became a real heroine in the end? Or will he still love Alana through her twin sister?
Was it really Alana who was dead? What will this be the new girl's role?Who the hell is Thompson? and Pam? What are their issues with Julian?
Finally, Raven Room though its the title, little is mentioned about it. And I think full discovery is way to shocking and what every character of the book has had me intriguingly.
Warning: This book is intended for mature readers only.
"The Raven Room gives everything. Takes everything."
Raven Room is one difficult puzzling mysterious read. For books under romancelandia or erotica, this book has been true to its promise. And before I write more and forget it, I have to say with all fairness to the beautifully compelling writing of the author. The book had me when Alana, one of the main FCs, made a love affair out of her words describing Julian's life. Needless to say that this is not the usual romance archetype of boy meets girl and happy ending. At first, it had me settling with Meredith and Julian as the OTP. Which Meredith's character is a real bitch with all her motives to having Julian at close. Julian Reeve, the main MC, is another complicated and hard to love character. As a child psychologist and associate professor, he is one hell of a problem with his sick sexual pleasure.
I wonder how this book will continue its mysteries and how the characters resolve their issues.For the book has ended with the following wonders.
As readers don't have any clue who the murderer is. Is is one of the twins? Or Am I correct in guessing that Alana is either Sofia or Tatia?
How will Pete react by the time Julian reveals that he's the father of the of the twins, Seth and Eli or he himself discovers it?
How will Julian face the love of Meredith, whom became a real heroine in the end? Or will he still love Alana through her twin sister?
Was it really Alana who was dead? What will this be the new girl's role?Who the hell is Thompson? and Pam? What are their issues with Julian?
Finally, Raven Room though its the title, little is mentioned about it. And I think full discovery is way to shocking and what every character of the book has had me intriguingly.
Warning: This book is intended for mature readers only.
November 25, 2015
Wow, I was not expecting that out of this book and especially not the crazy cliffhanger that we got! I didn't even know it was part of a series! So, now, I'm obviously highly anticipating the release of Book 2! When is it coming out?!? Please tell me it is VERY soon!
The Raven Room had it all for me. It was dark, depraved, suspenseful, mysterious, lust inducing, thoughtful, real, and so much more. I loved it and couldn't put it down! The H was amazing and so incredibly - well, just...incredible!
Have I said it before because I will say it once again...I loved every.single.second of this book! Julian and Alana were fantastic, if not perfect together - through all of their faults and kinks and everything else, they still managed to find somewhat of a balance. I loved that the H was so alpha, yet completely out of his depth when it came to this girl! She knew him from the start and played her hand extremely well. Again, WOW, I was overwhelmed how this one played out because, for as much as I wanted to know what was going on, I absolutely did not! Definitely DO NOT judge this book by the cover (I thought it was super dark) because you will want to read it from beginning to end - it was that amazing!!! At the "end," we get some clarity and then it all gets ripped away!
My main question is...who is the h and what is her game?!? It is a complete mystery at this point and it makes me love this book even more!
*I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The Raven Room had it all for me. It was dark, depraved, suspenseful, mysterious, lust inducing, thoughtful, real, and so much more. I loved it and couldn't put it down! The H was amazing and so incredibly - well, just...incredible!
Have I said it before because I will say it once again...I loved every.single.second of this book! Julian and Alana were fantastic, if not perfect together - through all of their faults and kinks and everything else, they still managed to find somewhat of a balance. I loved that the H was so alpha, yet completely out of his depth when it came to this girl! She knew him from the start and played her hand extremely well. Again, WOW, I was overwhelmed how this one played out because, for as much as I wanted to know what was going on, I absolutely did not! Definitely DO NOT judge this book by the cover (I thought it was super dark) because you will want to read it from beginning to end - it was that amazing!!! At the "end," we get some clarity and then it all gets ripped away!
My main question is...who is the h and what is her game?!? It is a complete mystery at this point and it makes me love this book even more!
*I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2016
The members at The Raven Room get all their fantasies come true but death isn't one they really want. Julian enjoys going to The Raven Room. Its the only place where he can release his kinkiest desires and Alana is his obsession but Julian has introduced Meredith in a sexual journey. Meredith is an aspiring journalist and when one of the women in The Raven Room is murdered she is torn between her career and her frindship/relationship to Julian and his dark secrets.
June 22, 2015
Review to Come...
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
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